Jens KUNZE, Allan PAULL
DOI Number: N/A
Conference number: HiSST-2025-064
performed. In this analysis, three different configurations, i.e. single-rotor, rotor-stator and double-rotor, are investigated using a quasi 3D model. For a meaningful comparison between configurations, trim drag, caused by balancing the net torque of the propeller, has to be considered. The models used in a previous study are, therefore, extended to be able to estimate trim drag as well as calculating the flow condition between propeller stages. It is shown that two counter rotating propellers can offer significant performance benefits over single-stage systems by reducing or entirely removing the need for trimming about the roll axis. Rotor-stator configurations, on the other hand, are less efficient than single-rotor
configurations at peak efficiency, but outperform them at high motor speeds. They, thus, can provide the best solution for specific scenarios but are not universally better than single-rotor systems and always less efficient than double-rotor configurations. Finally, a CFD analysis of two counter rotating stages is performed and compared to the quasi 3D results. Good agreement is found between the two methods, both in overall quantities, like the power efficiency and thrust power of the blade, as well as local flow properties.