Coastal Research Centre (FZK) Research Projects in GWK
A generalised Oscillating Water Column (OWC) wave energy converter

A generalised Oscillating Water Column (OWC) wave energy converter

Led by:  Dr Tom Bruce
Year:  2014
Funding:  HYDRALAB IV - Transnational Access
Remarks:  6 weeks

We tested a generalised Oscillating Water Column (OWC) wave energy converter at approximately 1:5 to 1:9 of full scale. Measurements included wave loads, water column movements, air pressures and flows through a number of orifices, including closed cells. The tests provide unique calibration data for CFD models using compressible air in the chamber.

The overall aim of the GWK testing was to reduce design uncertainty for shoreline OWC WECs by generating more generic physical model data, particularly intended to test / verify / correct design guidance derived from small-scale physical models and/or CFD tools.