Lead PI: Dr Tom Smith, University College London
Summary:
Air Lubrication Systems (ALS), which reduce drag by injecting air along a ship’s keel, have been identified as a key technology for reducing fuel consumption, carbon emissions, and underwater noise from ships. However, the current lack of understanding of the bubble dynamics prevents ALS from reaching its full potential. This research will combine new experimental results with state-of-the-art modelling to resolve the bubble carpet produced by a real ALS.
It will provide a complete understanding of the drag reduction physics and noise reducing potential, which is currently lacking, ultimately enabling the efficiency and effectiveness of ALS to be maximised.
