Simulation analysis on influence of propeller coating on submarine's underwater electrostatic fields

  Objectives  Some of mature propeller coating technologies have been employed in ships, but there are few studies on the influence on underwater electrostatic fields.

  Methods  Based on the principle of electric field generated by submarine corrosion and anti-corrosion current and combined with finite element method, the electric field generated by submarine corrosion and anti-corrosion current is modeled by using the electrochemical module in the multi-field coupled finite element simulation software COMSOL, so as to calculate the underwater electric field distribution of the submarine under different propeller coating conditions provided that the Impressed Current Cathodic Protection(ICCP) system is enabled.

  Results  Compared with the uncoated propeller, the peak-to-peak value and the maximum modulus value of the submarine's underwater electric fields in all directions are significantly reduced if the propeller is coated, and on the specified observation path parallel to the fore-and-aft line at 1.5 times the left width of the submarine, the peak-to-peak value and the maximum modulus value are reduced by 55.2%, 69.0%, 72.2% and 64.0%, respectively; moreover, the output current of auxiliary anode required for the impressed current cathodic protection system is reduced by 40.2%.

  Conclusions  The propeller coating can significantly reduce the corrosion electrostatic fields of the submarine, which is conducive to the realization of the electric field stealth of the submarine.