Quote:
|
Originally Posted by Kurushio
On a related note...why do subs have a maximum speed of 20 knots surfaced and cavitate as soon as you reach 10 knots (surfaced). Can subs go round caavitating everywhere...? In real life, wouldn't that ruin the props?
|
Subs on the surface push a HUGE bow wave due to the shape of the hull. We do not slice thru the water so much as shove it out of the way. You can stand on the power but you have too much drag to go fast. There are some other engineering factors related to the nuclear propulsion plant on the surface that limit the amount of turns you can place on the shaft on the surface.
As for the cavitation, yes, given a long enough time you can damage things. But subs do not operate long on the surface anyway. It is always a rush to the dive point and then its 'see ya'.