A study of a model oscillating water column

The aims of this dissertation is to examine different types of WEC devices, examine the current technology adopted, review Ireland's and EU's ocean energy policy and test a scale model of an Oscillating Water Column in a wave tank. Through EU and government policies interest in Ocean Energy has risen dramatically in the past years. The report outlines the different types and classifications of wave energy converters and investigates the current technology. Testing was carried out on a scale model of an OWC. The profile of the OWC chamber is curved as opposed to the sloped profile commonly adopted in an OWC. The testing carried out showed the curved OWC performing at high efficiency levels in comparison to sloped profiles. Issues arose during the testing with distorted results and it was concluded that the main issue was the orifice opening of 30mm was found to be excessive thus creating small damping forces resulting in the water sloshing inside the chamber. Additionally by providing a curved profile it was concluded in addition to the heaving motion the curve was also creating an additionally mode of motion, most likely a pitching motion