The performance of a weir-mounted tidal turbine: An experimental investigation

M. C. Verbeek*, R. J. Labeur, W. S.J. Uijttewaal

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

2 Citations (Scopus)
47 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

The tidal flow between bridge pillars and through open barriers is a promising source of ocean energy which can be exploited using tidal stream turbines, as proven recently by operational demonstration plants. The aim of this study is to clarify the consequences for the power output of tidal turbines when placing them in a hydraulic structure. To this end, experimental measurements of turbine power and wakes are performed, using a down-scaled turbine mounted at a submerged weir. The results are compared to an analytical model, validating its range of application for optimising turbine-weir geometries. The experimental data show that the power coefficient of the turbine can be increased by optimising the blockage of the channel and the distance between the turbine and the structure, which is related to the wake configuration. In this way, the power coefficient increased by 40% when the turbine was re-positioned from the upstream to the downstream end of the structure. The theoretical model could reproduce the measured power within 10% accuracy, proving its value as a rapid assessment tool. As such, this work advances the knowledge needed to meet targets on the transition towards renewable energy.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)64-75
Number of pages12
JournalRenewable Energy
Volume168
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2021

Keywords

  • Experimental investigation
  • Hydraulic structure
  • Power output optimisation
  • Tidal stream turbine
  • Wake

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'The performance of a weir-mounted tidal turbine: An experimental investigation'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this