Case Study: DNV GL achieves up to 7.6% propulsion power reduction on Ultramax "Diamond 2" with CAESES

DNV GL - Customer Case Study

DNV GL tackled the hydrodynamic optimization of a new Ultramax-type bulk carrier, Diamond 2, facing the challenge that bulkers exhibit high viscous effects which make CFD-based optimization costly and marginal compared to faster ship types. To support its ECO‑Lines hull design services, DNV GL used CAESES as the geometry tool in the process chain to generate parametrized hull forms and deliver data for grid generation and RANS analysis.

Using CAESES to automate hull geometry generation, DNV GL implemented wave-reduction treatments, an optimized twisted aft ship with an asymmetric stern, a high‑efficiency propeller and a rudder with a vortex‑reducing bulb; CAESES produced reparametrized surfaces and meshes for FS‑Flow and OpenFOAM analyses. The optimized Diamond 2 achieved about a 5% reduction in required propulsive power across the operational profile, an additional 2.6% savings from the twisted inflow, and an expected fuel consumption of 14.6 tonnes/day at 12 knots.

DNV GL

Bardo Krebber Naval

Architect and Optimization Specialist