Why Eco Vanes is different
Bespoke for each vessel
Eco Vanes is not based on a fixed, one-size-fits-all geometry. Vane sections, outer shape, position and angle of attack are intended to be optimised specifically for the target vessel.
Designed around real wake characteristics
The concept is developed to account for the vessel’s axial and tangential wake inflow behaviour, recognising that hull wake non-uniformity strongly affects propeller loading, angle of attack variation and cavitation dynamics.
Targets the wake shadow area
Rather than only improving upstream inflow in a general sense, Eco Vanes is intended to act on the flow structures that contribute to the non-uniform inflow seen by the propeller in the wake shadow region.
Retrofit-oriented concept
The device is being developed with practical retrofit application in mind, supporting integration into existing vessel configurations with vessel-specific design adaptation.
Hydrodynamic rationale
The inflow to a marine propeller is inherently non-uniform because of the hull wake. This non-uniformity alters local angle of attack around the propeller disc and can increase cavitation intensity, pressure fluctuations and associated losses. Research also shows that the axial wake component is particularly important for cavitation dynamics, while the tangential wake component further modifies blade incidence and can intensify unsteady behaviour.
Eco Vanes is being developed around this principle. By tailoring vane geometry to the target vessel’s wake field, the concept aims to improve the resultant inflow presented to the propeller, rather than applying a standard vane arrangement across different stern forms and operating conditions.
Development status
- Work in progress
- Patent application submitted
- Vessel-specific optimisation methodology under development
- Further CFD, design refinement and validation work planned
Our design approach
Each Eco Vanes concept is intended to be developed using a vessel-specific workflow that may include:
- stern and propulsion geometry review
- wake field assessment
- axial and tangential inflow characterisation
- bespoke vane section and angle optimisation
- installation and retrofit assessment
Suitable applications
Eco Vanes is expected to be most relevant where propeller performance is strongly influenced by stern wake non-uniformity and where a vessel-specific retrofit solution is justified by operating profile, fuel costs and installation opportunity.
Technical information
As Eco Vanes is currently under development, performance claims should remain subject to further design maturation and validation. EcoNavis’ approach is to develop each concept around the vessel’s actual wake and propulsion arrangement rather than relying on standardised vane geometry.