Norwegian tidal technology developer, Tidetec, has completed a structural integrity analysis of its lifting prototype ahead of the upcoming deployment of its tidal energy technology.
With the assistance from Femkuber, a specialist in finite element analysis, structural engineering and design, Tidetec completed a structural integrity analysis, and according to the company, the structure was found to be sound.
However, additional cargo straps to the anchors for the concrete delta blocks will be added for safety, the company informed, to make sure that the delta blocks will be firmly attached to the structure after 4-12 weeks in harsh salt water conditions.
Furthermore, the final sea bed inspection at the prototype installation site in Svelvik, Norway, have been conducted, and conditions at the site are found to be favorable for the deployment.
For the upcoming sea trials, Tidetec will be focused the testing of turning application, and the method of turning the device, not the turbine itself.
The testing is expected to show the robustness of the turning mechanism and the ability to keep the intended areas dry.
In addition, the testing aims to prove that the turret provides a robust housing for a low head hydro turbine, according to Arne Kollandsrud, Tidetec’s Managing Director.
The next steps will be to integrate a suited turbine into the turret, and upscale the technology.
The full size application of Tidetec technology is intended for barrage and tidal lagoon power plants.
As reported earlier, Tidetec is planning a new fundraising in early 2017 to fund engineering of its turret to house a 20MW turbine with a runner diameter of 7.5 meters.