The evolution of the modern waterjet propulsion unit is traced from a patent granted in 1661, through various subsequent configurations and applications, towards the technically advanced systems that propel current high-speed craft. The availability of steam power brought about the first successful full-size application by Rumsey in 1787, but monopolies granted to rivals prevented further progress. Ruthven's hydraulic propulsion patent of 1839, based on a centrifugal pump, was installed in numerous craft over sixty years, often with trials data being published. Energy-burst systems, first invented in the eighteenth century, have an appealing elegance of principle and could produce a waterjet system free from rotating components. Flush-fitting bottom-mounted units, as pioneered by Gill and by Hotchkiss earlier this century, are particularly suitable for extremely shallow water or sailing craft, a market now dominated by Schottel. In the 1950s Hamilton introduced the stern-mounted waterjet, at best in high speed applications. Manufacturer-led developments have followed, with efficient, cost-effective systems being produced for various types of fast craft from recreational sports boats to 1000 tonne car ferries. The idea of a waterjet outboard motor has recently been resurrected, whilst jet propelled personal watercraft, capable of very exciting performance, have sold in substantial numbers. Future possibilities in an expanding market include exhaust gas injection and more sophisticated digital control systems, as well as incremental improvements to impellers, inlets and bearings.
The evolution of the modern waterjet marine propulsion unit
Die Entwicklung der modernen Wasserstrahl-Schiffsantriebseinheit
1994
20 Seiten, 12 Bilder, 44 Quellen
Conference paper
English
The Evolution of the Modern Waterjet Marine Propulsion Unit
British Library Conference Proceedings | 1994
|Tema Archive | 1993
|British Library Conference Proceedings | 1993
|Waterjet Propulsion for Marine Vehicles
AIAA | 1966
|Development of Waterjet Propulsion Unit
NTIS | 1985
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