Simulations of the impact of a foreign object against a composite transmission shaft

The project deals with the simulation of the mechanical behaviour of a composite impeller shaft of a Kamewa Waterjet (hydro-jet sea propulsion) subjected to the impact of a foreign object. The composite shaft will be used to transmit torque and rpm generated by the engine/turbine to the pump unit of a Kamewa Waterjet. The shaft is manufactured from a carbon/epoxy composite tube reinforced with an external steel sheath to protect the composite shaft against impact and erosion debris. During operational conditions, heavy objects and debris are absorbed by the water jet leading to damage by impact on the transmission shaft. Simulations were devoted to study the effect of the impact of a foreign absorbed object against the composite transmission shaft.

Partners: Polytechnic University of Madrid

Funding Organisation: Rolls Royce
Industrial Sector: High speed sea transportation
Region: Spain
Project Period: 2007

Principal Investigator: Carlos Gonzalez
Contact: carlosdaniel.gonzalez@imdea.org