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
University of Edinburgh
Sub-contractor(s)
University of Plymouth
Griffon Hoverwork Ltd
Overview
The use of deformable fabric/elastomeric structures in wave energy converters offers advantages over conventional rigid structures, introducing the potential for cost reduction.
For example, the lower hydrostatic stiffness of a heaving deformable body can result in a longer resonance period than a heaving rigid body of the same size. This introduces the potential for smaller cheaper devices to provide equivalent yields.
The concept is explored through the study of a compressible self‐rectifying point absorber formed from a heaving flexible elastomeric buoy encased within an array of load-bearing meridional tendons, considering device modelling, material selection and testing, sample component manufacture and testing, and techno-economic analyses.
Stage 1
May 2018
This project has considered a compressible self‐rectifying point absorber (SQ1) WEC. This is an axisymmetric heaving buoy with a completely flexible elastomeric bag as the deformable body connected to a rigid ballast container. The flexible bag is in the form of a fabric (reinforced elastomer) encased within an array of meridional tendons. When the bag is inflated, the fabric forms lobes between the tendons. This effectively keeps the tension in the fabric to a minimum, and the tendons become the major load‐bearing members.
The project included four major activities:
- Modelling of the device,
- Materials and manufacturing of samples and components,
- Testing of materials, manufactured samples and components, and
- Techno‐economic analysis and roadmap for technology development.
The project’s success is dependent on the following key measures:
- Modelling of the flexible device to provide the required materials properties and load conditions to inform the materials and component testing parameters;
- Identification of promising materials and manufacturing samples and critical components;
- Static and fatigue testing of materials and manufactured components at relevant loads and conditions;
- Development of state‐of-the‐art techno‐economic models and tools to assess the technology and provide a business case and commercialisation strategy for the proposed technology.
Where to next?
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