Analysis of Engine–Propeller Mismatch and Performance of Colt L300 Engine on Polbeng II Vessel

Abstract

Polbeng II is a research vessel owned by Politeknik Negeri Bengkalis, designed with a target speed of 12 knots. However, despite being equipped with a 74 HP diesel engine, the vessel was unable to achieve this speed, indicating an engine–propeller mismatch. This study analyzes the propulsion system using an engine–propeller matching approach through engine power calculations, open water propeller analysis, and numerical simulation. The results show that at 12 knots, the required power is 15.59 HP, while the matching calculation yields 18.59 HP. Both values are far below the available engine power of 74 HP, yet the vessel still failed to reach its design speed. Further analysis suggests that the Colt L300 engine installed as the main propulsion system does not operate optimally, and its actual performance may not correspond to the specified technical capacity