Numerical investigation on the hydrodynamic performance of a land-based OWC system with multi-chamber modules

Abstract

Modular design of wave energy converters (WECs) can offer a promising scheme to improve the economic competitiveness of wave energy by reducing the levelized cost of energy. In this study, the hydrodynamic performance of a land-based oscillating water column (OWC) system with multi-chamber modules is evaluated to optimize the layout and design of the system, the OWC structure is extended to five-chamber modules. A two-dimensional wave flume is developed using the high-order boundary element method to simulate the interaction of the incident waves with the OWC device based on the fully non-linear potential flow theory. The proposed numerical model is validated by published experimental data. It is concluded that the two-chamber installation provides superior hydrodynamic performance compared with the single-chamber OWC. The five-chamber OWC system is more suitable for energy capture in low-frequency wave conditions, where the first and last chambers are dominant in energy extraction. From the perspective of energy conversion efficiency and economy, the two- and three-chamber systems are most suitable for targeting low and high frequency waves in the tested conditions, respectively. Additionally, the resonant frequency of the single-chamber module plays a decisive role in the energy capture of the OWC system, and a chamber with a low resonant frequency and a small orifice opening ratio should be selected as the module unit. This paper provides valuable guidance for the modular application of OWCs and the arrangement of multiple chambers.