The project intends to reduce risk at the design phase of powertrains and aid design optimisation.
Tidal turbines have same operational issues as wind turbines. However, the costs related with retrieving and reinstalling a tidal turbine result in the increased operation and maintenance costs of marine energy.
The new project will build on the current turbine testing capability at ORE Catapult’s 3MW Drive Train plant in Blyth, Northumberland, UK.
It will address the reliability concerns faced by a tidal turbine powertrain in the conversion of energy to electricity.
The first phase of the project includes the identification of existing information on tidal turbine reliability and any data gaps.
A process and simulation methodology will be defined to better estimate degradation or potential failure, as well as the reliability of a tidal turbine.
The second phase includes the collection of data via planned live testing and the development of a range of tools for use at the design stage.
Under the third phase, a recommended best practice guide will be produced on design optimisation.
ORE said other leading tidal turbine developers and universities have also offered their support to the project.
ORE Catapult marine sector specialist Simon Cheeseman said: "Improving the reliability of tidal turbine powertrains, and being able to more accurately predict failure rates at the design stage, will significantly increase investor confidence in tidal turbine technology and will ultimately reduce the cost of tidal energy to the consumer.
"This project allows ORE Catapult to further develop our knowledge and expertise with regards to tidal turbine reliability issues, and offer an enhanced service from our existing tidal turbine test facility, offering value-added services that are highly attractive to industry."
Image: The three-stage collaborative project aims at mitigating powertrain related risks. Photo: courtesy of Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult.
