Abstract
The WaveCat is a moored Wave Energy Converter design which uses wave overtopping discharge into a variable v-shaped hull, to generate electricity through low head turbines. Physical model tests of WaveCat WEC were carried out to determine the device reflection, transmission, absorption and capture coefficients based on selected wave conditions. The model scale was 1:30, with hulls of 3 m in length, 0.4 m in height and a freeboard of 0.2 m. Wave gauges monitored the surface elevation at discrete points around the experimental area, and level sensors and flowmeters recorded the amount of water captured and released by the model. Random waves of significant wave height between 0.03 m and 0.12 m and peak wave periods of 0.91 s to 2.37 s at model scale were tested. The wedge angle of the device was set to 60°. A reflection analysis was carried out using a revised three probe method and spectral analysis of the surface elevation to determine the incident, reflected and transmitted energy. The results show that the reflection coefficient is highest (0.79) at low significant wave height and low peak wave period, the transmission coefficient is highest (0.98) at low significant wave height and high peak wave period, and absorption coefficient is highest (0.78) when significant wave height is high and peak wave period is low. The model also shows the highest Capture Width Ratio (0.015) at wavelengths on the order of model length. The results have particular implications for wave energy conversion prediction potential using this design of device.
Highlights
In order to reduce the impact of fossil fuels on our environment, alternative means of energy generation must be considered
The European Union (EU) set out energy generation targets in which member countries were to achieve a percentage of their energy generation from renewable sources by 2020 [1], since a new agreement has come into force revising the date to 2030 [2]
The absorbed energy curve is not continuous due to the reflection and transmission equalling the incident energy, no energy was absorbed at those frequencies
Summary
In order to reduce the impact of fossil fuels on our environment, alternative means of energy generation must be considered. After the United Kingdom (UK) left the EU the UK government introduced the Environment Bill [3] outlining targets towards cutting fossil fuel emissions, which is currently before Parliament [4]. One such source of renewable energy is marine renewable energy. Marine renewable energy is a relatively underutilised area of energy extraction, with potential avenues in offshore wind, tidal stream, tidal range and wave energy available. The estimated worldwide wave energy potential is 17 TWh/year [5] with large concentrations at mid-latitudes, 30° to 60°, which the UK and EU are in prime position to exploit
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
