EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF THE OSCILLATING WATER COLUMN TECHNOLOGY ON A WELLS TURBINE.

Abstract

Oscillating Water Column (OWC) devices for wave energy extraction are equipped with Wells turbines for energy conversion. The effect of humidity in the air chamber of the OWC entails variations on the atmospheric conditions near the turbine, modifying its performance and efficiency. A theoretical development of a model which includes humidity considerations is done. Moreover, the influence of humid air in the performance of the turbine is studied through experimental tests carried out in a Wind Tunnel seeded with water particles. Results show that power input to the OWC can be reduced in a 40% when humidity in air is taken into account.