Numerical Study on the Effects of Bulbous Bow Shape to Improve the Hydrodynamic Characteristics of KCS Hull using CFD

Abstract

One of the most important aspects of designing a new ship to achieve improved hydrodynamic performance is improving the hull form. This study investigates the improvement of a hull form (KCS) through the utilization of the Free Form Deformation (FFD) method in CAESES and STAR-CCM+. The main purpose of this investigation is on improving the KCS hull by investigating various bulbous bow shapes. The Free Form Deformation (FFD) method was employed to modify the geometry of the bulbous bow, while the STAR-CCM+ software was applied for the simulation. The variables considered for improvement were the length, width, angle, height, and combination these factors. As a consequence of the investigation into seven distinct cases, case number seven exhibited the most favorable outcomes exhibiting the minimum resistance and having the lowest total resistance coefficient the least in lowest Froude number. This will enhance fuel efficiency and help the environment and economic system. In addition to having an impact on the ship's resistance, the improved bulbous bow shape of the hull also will have an impact on the hydrodynamic performance.