Program Overview

NUMERICAL MARINE HYDRODYNAMICS

Course Overview

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is becoming increasingly attractive in the marine industry as a complementary tool to traditional model and full-scale measurements. A deep understanding of the theoretical basis of each approach, its limitations, applicability fields, and result quality is fundamental for the successful application of these approaches to design and analysis problems.

Aims and Content

Learning Outcomes

The course aims to provide students with the basis of the most advanced numerical techniques adopted for solving hydrodynamic problems related to naval architecture. The theoretical background of each proposed methodology, along with its field of application and limits, is presented together with hands-on examples.

Aims and Learning Outcomes

In detail, the course focuses on providing the theoretical and technical aspects of CFD, including:

• Definition of fundamental equations of fluid mechanics
• Theoretical aspects of the most used simplified and complete theories for the solution of flow motion
• Examples of simple codes based on the developed theories during the lessons

Prerequisites

Basic knowledge of fluid dynamics and solution of analytical partial differential equations is required.

Teaching Methods

The course combines oral lessons and computer lab sessions. Students with valid certifications for Specific Learning Disorders (SLDs), disabilities, or other educational needs are invited to contact the teacher and the School's disability liaison at the beginning of the teaching period to agree on possible teaching arrangements.

Syllabus/Content

The course is organized around the following main topics:

• Overview of the state of the art in solving fluid dynamic equations
• Introduction to continuum mechanics: basic idea of a continuum description and how to obtain the flow equations
• Potential methods with a focus on single-phase methods for 2-D and 3-D profiles
• Advanced viscous CFD methodologies (focus on FDM and FVM), theoretical and practical aspects
• Particular problems such as boundary layer problems and propeller cavitation

Recommended Reading/Bibliography

• J. Katz & A. Plotkin, "Low Speed Aerodynamics - From wing theory to panel method", McGraw-Hill
• J.H. Ferziger & M. Peric, "Computational Methods for Fluid Dynamics", Springer

Teachers and Exam Board

Teachers

• Diego Villa
• Stefano Gaggero

Exam Board

• Diego Villa (President)
• Nicola Petacco
• Giorgio Tani
• Michele Viviani
• Stefano Gaggero (President Substitute)

Lessons

Lessons Start

The start date of the lessons is to be announced.

Class Schedule

The timetable for this course is available on the Portale EasyAcademy.

Exams

Exam Description

The exam is oral. If the number of students is considerable, a preliminary written exam may also be planned.

Assessment Methods

The oral test aims to establish the student's ability to present the topics covered in class in an exhaustive, autonomous, and proper manner. The final score will take into account both exposure and knowledge of the concepts presented.

Exam Schedule

• 12/01/2026, 09:30, LA SPEZIA
• 26/01/2026, 09:30, LA SPEZIA
• 09/02/2026, 09:30, LA SPEZIA
• 05/06/2026, 09:30, LA SPEZIA
• 26/06/2026, 09:30, LA SPEZIA
• 15/07/2026, 09:30, LA SPEZIA
• 11/09/2026, 09:30, LA SPEZIA

Further Information

For other information not included in the teaching schedule, please contact the professor.