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.


    Access

    Access via TIB

    Check availability in my library


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    The evolution of the modern waterjet marine propulsion unit


    Additional title:

    Die Entwicklung der modernen Wasserstrahl-Schiffsantriebseinheit


    Contributors:
    Roy, S.M. (author)


    Publication date :

    1994


    Size :

    20 Seiten, 12 Bilder, 44 Quellen


    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    Print


    Language :

    English




    The Evolution of the Modern Waterjet Marine Propulsion Unit

    Roy, S. M. / Royal Institution of Naval Architects | British Library Conference Proceedings | 1994


    Marine waterjet propulsion

    Allison John | Tema Archive | 1993


    Marine Waterjet Propulsion

    Allison, J. / SNAME | British Library Conference Proceedings | 1993


    Waterjet Propulsion for Marine Vehicles

    JOHN TRAKSEL AND WOODROW E. BECK | AIAA | 1966