Performance of a hybrid TLP floating wind turbine combined with arrays of heaving point absorbers

Abstract

In the present study, the hydrodynamic performance of circular and concentric arrangements of cone-cylinder-type heaving point absorbers around a Submerged Tension-Leg Platform (STLP) is analysed using the numerical model in the frequency domain based on the potential flow theory. The presence of the Wave Energy Converters (WECs) around the STLP floating wind turbine platform affects the hydrodynamic performance of the hybrid floating platform. So to illustrate the effects of WECs on the platform, the ratio of hydrodynamic coefficients for a single WEC system to that for a hybrid system is analysed. An array of heaving point absorbers is placed in circular and concentric patterns to understand the performance of heaving point absorbers in the absorption of wave energy. The cone-cylinder type heaving point absorber is selected for the present study as they yield more power as compared to other shaped point absorbers. The study compares the wave power absorption of each point absorber around the platform for irregular wave conditions of the North Sea. The effect of incoming waves is illustrated by analysing four different wave heading angles. To quantify the performance of the WECs in an array, the q-factor and coefficient of variation are studied for each array at different sea states. The study suggested the best possible arrangement pattern for wave power absorption and power uniformity among the floaters in the array. The study performed will be helpful in the design and analysis of the possible arrangement of point absorbers around the floating wind turbine platform for wave power absorption.