Mike, - " I would go with a retractable motor, in a tall well, with a hull section mounted below its cavitation plate so that it presents a smooth surface when retracted. "
Definitely something to seriously consider, except that I would make the cavitation plate fit the floor and seal it off when the prop is deployed too : )
I like this solution better than the outboard in the pod, except for the flooding in the sealed hull section. I think that the prop needs to be retractable all the way above the water line.
On the other hand, a diesel and sail drive is going to be a lot simpler and more reliable, Just the permanent drag of the prop : ( is a problem.
Mike - "The key is not to just get a maneuvering thruster that will overheat in 20 minutes, but one that is designed for use as a main propulsion unit. Some are even used in tugs, ferries, and commercial boats."
Don't forget locomotives, big trucks, etc. and the regenerative power of a generator in the water when under sail.
Here is the bottom line with electric power, lets say the hp required is 30 hp. That is roughly 22K Watts, which requires a 30KW generator..... and we are off to the races cost and weight wise.
Typically a cat will have two 30 hp engines.
Talador
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Posted by: taladorwood@yahoo.com.au
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