Reduced Cavitation, High Efficiency Outboard Propulsors for Small Planing Craft

The Candent Technologies “Reduced Cavitation, High Efficiency Outboard Propulsor for Small Planing Craft” Phase II program is structured to develop an advanced waterjet propulsor for the Combat Rubber Raiding Craft (CRRC). This new axial flow waterjet propulsion system is designed as a “bolt on” assembly that replaces the lower unit of the existing MFE 55 outboard motor. This new propulsion system incorporates a high efficiency low cavitation impeller to reduce the acoustic signature of the system and provide improvements in maximum speed as well as range and acoustic signature. The system also provides a true “shallow draft” capability that will expand the area of operations for the CRRC and improve personnel safety compared to existing systems. The Phase II effort includes a rigorous test program to demonstrate the performance, acoustic properties and operational capabilities of the system. The University of Iowa is the academic partner for the program and is brings their extensive CFD analysis capability to verify the system performance and operability. The system under development is a true “dual use” product with both civil and military customers.