Large-Scale OWC Testing: Analyzing Membrane Deformation
As part of the BASM-WEC project, we are excited to share the results of our first experiment conducted at the Kelvin Hydrodynamics Lab’s large water tank. Our team installed a larger scale (1:30) oscillating water column with a membrane at the top, designed to capture the deformation of the membrane under different wave conditions.
To gather accurate data, we utilized the Qualisys system to track the movement of the membrane. Additionally, we installed a pressure transducer and wave probe to monitor the pressure and wave elevation inside the air chamber during the experiment.
This information will help us better understand the behaviour of the membrane in varying wave conditions and contribute to the development of more effective wave energy converters.
Tank Testing of Flexible Tube Wave Energy Converter: Experimental Insights and Analysis
To further enhance our understanding of the resonant response of the flexible tube wave energy converter (WEC) in waves, a series of wave tank tests were conducted for a 3.52m long tube at the Kelvin Hydrodynamics Laboratory of the University of Strathclyde. An orifice plate was mounted on top of the right vertical tube to simulate the actual Power Take-Off (PTO) of the device. A mooring line was tied to the bow of the tube to limit the heave motion of the device. Various wave frequencies and amplitudes were tested on the flexible tube WEC. The variations in wave elevation in the Oscillating Water Column (OWC), pressure at the holes of the orifice plate, and tube deformation were measured to detect the responses of the device.
The results revealed several resonant responses, including those occurring when the bulge wave speed matches the incident water wave speed, the natural frequency of the OWC, and the natural frequency of the bow’s heave motion. Additionally, the impact of PTO impedance, pre-stretching, and wave amplitude on the FSI responses of the flexible tube WEC was investigated and discussed.