A European research group has developed an innovative dual hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) platform for rigorous testing of wave energy converter (WEC) technology, a promising renewable energy source that harnesses the power of ocean waves.
Wave Energy Converter Technology
Wave energy converters capture the kinetic and potential energy of ocean waves to generate clean electricity, power ocean vehicles, and facilitate seawater desalination. WECs come in various types, such as oscillating water columns, point absorbers, and attenuators, each using different mechanisms to convert wave energy into usable forms. The power take-off (PTO) systems within WECs are critical for converting absorbed energy into electricity, often through hydraulic pumps or turbines driving generators.
Challenges in Commercializing WECs
Commercializing WEC technology poses challenges, particularly in ensuring the reliability and efficiency of PTO systems. Rigorous testing and advancements in engineering and materials are essential to overcome these hurdles. Testing includes environmental simulations to assess durability in harsh marine conditions, performance optimization across various wave states, and extensive reliability testing to ensure longevity. Scale model testing in wave tanks precedes full-scale deployment to validate design and predict performance. Compatibility with existing power infrastructure is thoroughly examined, and control systems are fine-tuned to enhance safety and reliability.
SINTEF’s Contribution
SINTEF, a European research institute, has developed a dual HIL platform to accelerate WEC technology testing. This platform provides a holistic view of WEC components’ behavior and interactions by simultaneously testing different parts. It uses two independent test rigs: a drivetrain rig and a structural components rig.
The drivetrain rig, originally developed in the EU IMAGINE project and enhanced through the IMPACT project, evaluates linear and rotary PTO systems under various conditions. It simulates diverse mechanical stresses induced by waves to verify PTO reliability and efficiency, with data acquisition and analysis performed using MATLAB.
The structural components rig tests the mechanical integrity of WEC parts such as mooring systems, dynamic power cables, joints, and seals. This rig, which has already been used to test Carnegie Clean Energy’s CETO 6 WEC belt, employs a digital twin created by SINTEF Ocean to collect detailed performance data.
IMPACT Dual HIL Platform
The dual HIL platform, developed under the IMPACT project, runs both rigs simultaneously to provide real-time data feedback into a simulator, enabling a comprehensive understanding of the WEC’s behavior in various environmental conditions.
Impact on Wave Energy Commercialization
SINTEF’s dual HIL platform development could significantly accelerate the commercialization of wave energy converters. By providing more comprehensive and realistic performance data, the platform could lead to more robust and efficient designs, potentially reducing costs and increasing system reliability. This advancement could make wave energy a more viable option in the global renewable energy mix. As the world grapples with climate change, innovations like these in renewable energy testing and development are essential for creating a sustainable energy future.