Share reportStructural Materials
This programme investigated if it is possible to make a step change impact in LCOE by constructing typical WEC devices from alternative materials to those traditionally used, such as steel.
Lead contractor
Polygen Ltd
Sub-contractor(s)
Rototek Ltd
Wave Venture Ltd
Overview
Rotational moulded polyethylene structures offer benefits to designers of wave energy converters that could initiate a step-change impact on the levelised cost of energy, although not without challenges.
The study explores the use of large rotationally moulded polyethylene structures that incorporate concrete ballast material to provide structural strength and innovative engineering design concepts for managing point loads and preventing buckling.
Designs are proposed informed by advanced finite element analysis simulations validated with formal material testing.
Stage 1
May 2018
The ARMWET project targets the application of new technologies which overcome existing challenges with the implementation of the rotational moulding of polyethylene structures for wave energy converters (WECs).
The leaders of the project, PolyGen Ltd, focus on a selection of advanced engineering methods which have applications for WECs, including the spreading loads throughout the polymer structures, and the implementation of hybrid concrete elements.
Wave Venture Ltd utilise their Wave Venture TE™ software to analyse the hydrodynamic performance of the PolyGen WEC, to output relevant load cases that the structures must endure and to estimate energy productivity. The LCOE was also investigated using the Wave Venture TE™ software, this included a sensitivity and an uncertainty analysis.
Utilising Rototek Ltd’s unique experience and design capabilities for large rotational moulded products, the team proposes a number of designs suitable for use, backed up by advanced FEA simulations using systems validated by formal material testing.
These proposals show a realistic means of reducing the CAPEX and the long term OPEX of the WEC. The LCOE was assessed to be 710£/MWh for farm composed of 25kW capacity WEC units at 1MW maturity. This estimate places the PolyGen WEC device on track to reach the WES target of 150£/MWh at 1GW maturity with a learning rate close to learning rates already achieved in comparable industries.
Where to next?
Explore our other programmes, or find out more about how we operate.
About Wave Energy Scotland
Wave Energy Scotland was created by request of the Scottish Government. Discover our purpose, our procurement model and more about our team.