Marine Application of Magnus Effect Devices

The Magnus effect is an induced, very high lift phenomenon that has been used for wind propulsion of ships as early as 1924. More recently, this unique lift principle has been used for steering towboats. Recent research has indicated that Magnus effect roll stabilizers, water propellers, and air and water generators may be both feasible and have greater efficiency than traditional designs. The paper explains the Magnus effect, reviews the history of the Magnus effect, reviews current marine applications including the work of investigators in Germany, France, Sweden and Russia, discusses in detail Magnus effect rotor design, and proposes auxiliary wind propulsion Magnus effect devices for single screw oilers.