High-Fidelity CFD Analysis of Finite-Span Hydrofoils with Tubercles

Leading-edge tubercles, inspired by the flippers of humpback whales, have demonstrated the potential to improve the hydrodynamic performance of lifting surfaces by delaying stall and enhancing lift. Extensive studies have focused on tubercled foils in two-dimensional or infinite-span configurations, yet limited attention has been directed toward finite-span cases with free tips, where tip vortex dynamics significantly influence flow behavior. While biological flippers typically feature high aspect ratios, many marine applications such as propellers, rudders, and control surfaces rely on foils with lower aspect ratios. In such configurations, tip effects become more pronounced and can strongly affect the interaction between tubercle-induced disturbances and the surrounding three-dimensional flow. The objective of this study is to investigate the hydrodynamic performance of finite-span hydrofoils with leading-edge tubercles and free-tip configurations using high-fidelity Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), with particular focus on spanwise variations in hydrodynamic forces. A systematic variation of tubercle geometry, aspect ratio, and angle of attack is conducted to examine their influence on flow separation, tip vortex behavior, and the resulting lift and drag characteristics across the lifting surface. This analysis shows how leading-edge modifications alter the flow structure near the tip region and influence overall hydrodynamic efficiency across a range of operating conditions.