OpenHydro, an Irish-based tidal energy developer, has purchased a number of Tritech’s Gemini imaging sonars for its current and upcoming tidal energy projects.
According to Tritech, OpenHydro will use Gemini imaging sonars to monitor the installation and recovery of tidal turbines and subsea base units. The company also purchased an additional Gemini sonar, which will be permanently installed on a tidal turbine to monitor the environment.
This sonar was provided with the Tritech SeaTec software package which provides target tracking and probability classification functionality, Tritech’s press release reads.
Mark Cobbe , Project Engineer at OpenHydro said: “The Tritech Gemini was selected because we achieved excellent clarity at both long and short range. After a brief hire period for projects in Canada, the Gemini sonar continued to prove itself as a robust and reliable system during operations in France.”
Gemini 720i sonar operates at 720 kHz to provide high-resolution sonar imagery at a 120 m range and with a full 120 degree field of view, and is suitable for long and short range detection.
OpenHydro, part of Cape Sharp Tidal joint venture formed with Emera, plans to install 4 MW tidal array in the Bay of Fundy, Canada, with the installation of the first 2 MW tidal turbine planned to take place by the end of 2015.
Tritech International, part of Moog Inc., is a company that provides imaging and ancillary equipment for underwater applications in various sectors.
Images: OpenHydro; Tritech/Gemini 720i sonar image of OpenHydro’s deployed tidal turbine