Slipstream characters comparison of improved actuator disk model and 3D propeller numerical simulation

Four different propeller simulation models were compared to study the influence of propeller slipstream by solving Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations, including two prediction methods of the standard strip theory with and without rotate velocity correction applied in the actuator disk models and the uncorrected actuator disk model and 3D propeller model on a certain condition (at free stream velocity 66.889 m/s, with propeller rotation of 2575 r/min and propeller radius 1.008 m). Results of axial and tangential velocity distribution behind the propeller show that propeller slipstream area could be predicted by the actuator disk model and the 3D propeller model when more flow details are reflected by the 3D model with more calculation cost. It all proved that the numerical simulation of 3D propeller could be replaced by the actuator disk model.