A Novel Model of Marine Propulsion Efficiency: Insights from Engine Dynamics, Fuel Optimization, and Hydrodynamic Performance

Marine propulsion efficiency is a critical determinant of operational performance, fuel economy, and environmental sustainability in modern naval and commercial fleets. This study systematically evaluates factors influencing propulsion efficiency, integrating insights from internal combustion engine thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and combustion characteristics. Key parameters including brake-specific fuel consumption, volumetric efficiency, and propeller-hull interactions were analyzed to quantify their impact on overall performance. Results indicate that optimizing engine compression ratios, ignition timing, and fuel injection strategies significantly enhances power output while reducing specific fuel consumption, corroborating prior studies on internal combustion fundamentals (Heywood, 1988; Heywood, 2018). Additionally, propeller design and hull hydrodynamics were found to exert substantial influence on thrust generation and energy loss, highlighting the importance of integrated propulsion system design. Comparative evaluation of traditional versus advanced propulsion schemes revealed potential efficiency gains of up to 12% when aligning engine characteristics with hydrodynamic profiles. The findings further suggest that strategic management of transient loads and cavitation phenomena can mitigate energy losses, contributing to both operational efficiency and emission reduction. Collectively, this research underscores the multifaceted nature of marine propulsion optimization, emphasizing a holistic approach that combines mechanical, fluid, and combustion insights. These outcomes provide actionable guidance for ship designers, naval engineers, and fleet operators seeking to enhance vessel performance while minimizing environmental impact.