Swansea, UK-based Marine Power Systems (MPS) has conducted scaled tank testing of its new WaveSub device.
The tank scale power-take-off systems were developed in collaboration with the University of Bath and aim to provide a reliable renewable energy source through harnessing energy from ocean waves.
Tests took place at Plymouth University’s Coastal, Ocean and Sediment Transport (COAST) laboratory which specialises in providing physical model testing with combined waves, currents and wind.
“We are pleased to be continuing our relationship with Plymouth University’s COAST lab, which provides the opportunity to conduct a significant number of simulated operational and extreme sea state testis in a sophisticated purpose built tank,” said Dr Gareth Stockman, co-founder and managing director of MPS.
He added: “We have been utilising the facility to optimise the WaveSub prior to sea-testing, whilst supporting many MSc projects to nurture the future talent of the marine renewables sector.”
MPS' WaveSub project has been part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government, with MPS receiving a £2m grant in October 2015.
The technology is expected to have the potential to contribute to energy security targets and reduce reliance on unpredictable and non-renewable energy supplies.
MPS' wave energy converter (WEC) is due for deployment at sea later this year.
Dr Andy Hillis, senior lecturer in mechanical engineering at Bath University, concluded: “It is a great pleasure to work with Marine Power Systems and the innovative WaveSub device provides a fascinating engineering project for scaled power-off-system design.”
“Wave energy has the potential to provide a significant contribution to the UK energy mix and MPS are at the forefront with a novel solution. We are delighted to be involved and we hope to maintain a longstanding and fruitful collaboration."
By Alice Mason
