Advanced Aerodynamics and Hydrodynamics for Powerboats

The TBDP©/VBDP© Fuel Consumption analysis provides a load-based method for predicting engine fuel flow (GPH) directly from required horsepower, without needing RPM-fuel maps. By using a compact parametric formulation it allows accurate comparison of different engines for performance optimization. This analysis is based on actual calculated engine load (%HPmax), rather than simulated RPM levels, thus results integrate cleanly into power prediction routines, enabling rapid evaluation of range, tank sizing, operating cost, and propulsion matching across multiple configurations.  

The analysis presents Engine Fuel Consumption (US Gal per hour, GPH) or normalized Brake Specific Fuel Consumption (BSFC) across the operating calculated Engine Load (%HPmax) required for the hull hydrodynamic and aerodynamic loads calculated through the full velocity range.

How it works

• Users need only select or specify engine from Motor Wizard, and fuel mapping information is automatically imported.

• Users can also select generic fuel mapping profile

• TBDP/VBDP analysis integrates all dynamic hydrodynamic and aerodynamic loads with required power (eg: HP) for hull equilibrium throughout the full velocity range.

• Engine fuel consumption is based on established hull dynamic loads from all contributing sources, through established fuel mapping curves.

Real-World Simulation Counts

Using actual hull lift/drag/power analysis results that are integrated with engine-linked individual fuel consumption mapping is the key to highly accurate fuel consumption predictions during hull design optimization.  (Utilizing standard fuel consumption statistics that are not linked to real-world hull dynamics and engine loading, cannot provide valued engine management information for designers.

More About Fuel Consumption

Fuel consumption in a boat varies continuously with operating conditions. Hull resistance, speed, loading, and environment (wind and waves) determine the horsepower required, which in turn sets fuel use. Key influences include hull size and displacement, engine rating, speed/throttle setting, payload, trim and engine setup, and weather.

TBDP/VBDP analysis accounts for these factors simultaneously, recalculating required horsepower and fuel efficiency rate as conditions change, and integrating the resulting fuel consumption over the operating profile.