Contra Rotating Tidal Turbine
The UK has a significant domestic tidal stream resource which could be exploited to provide 3,000 MW of generation capacity, equivalent to 3% of UK electricity demand. The tidal power industry is however at an embryonic stage.
The Energy Systems Research Team at the University of Strathclyde is developing a contra-rotating marine current turbine with integral power take off. Using patented new rotor technology this design enables more energy to be delivered from the flowing stream while reducing mechanical complexity. Compared to existing turbines of similar dimensions contra-rotating rotors are more efficient, yield a higher power output, and reduce the environmental impact associated with the downstream disturbance of the seabed and aquaculture.
A 2.5m diameter rotor prototype has been developed using a mechanical power takeoff and has had successful sea trials. The technology is now being developed into a complete system with direct drive generator and tension mooring system.
Key Benefits
- Higher power output compared to an equivalent sized conventional device
- Reduced environmental impact
- Low maintenance due to simple direct drive and no requirement for a complicated gearbox
- No expensive piled seabed structure required
- Suitable in deeper waters >40m and therefore well placed to maximise energy capture from Scotland’s coastal waters.
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Applications
- This technology is suitable for
- Stand alone power systems such as those for island communities, distilleries, paper mills, fish farms, etc
- Grid connected power systems
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IP Status
The technology is protected by a patent application filed by the University of Strathclyde as GB05/16149.2. Contact is welcomed from organisations interested in developing, licensing or exploiting this technology.
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