Background
Oyster® is a near-shore hydroelectric wave energy converter developed by Aquamarine Power Ltd. Fixed to the seabed, the device is designed to provide grid connected
electrical power from wave surge action.
The prototype Oyster® device was manufactured during early 2008 and will be installed at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) during the summer of 2009.
Aquamarine Power were keen to conduct full-scale testing of the equipment on land in the intervening period, to increase the likelihood of a successful prototype deployment at EMEC, and to gather performance data on the equipment under idealised conditions.
Solution
Feasibility Study
Frazer-Nash undertook a feasibility study to scope the test programme and identify the equipment, timescales and budget required. We concluded that it was feasible to manufacture a hydraulic test rig to mimic the expected response of the Oyster® device to wave motion, and to conduct a useful test programme before the device is shipped to Orkney for installation.
Equipment Design & Manufacture
With the full-scale testing approved, Frazer-Nash developed the requirements for the test equipment and subsequently designed a hydraulic test rig to mimic the effect of the Oyster® flap. We also designed the ancillary pipe-work and other equipment. Working closely with Howco Oilfield Services, we oversaw the manufacture of the test rig, which weighed over 60 tonnes, and was designed and manufactured in less than 16 working weeks.
Engineering Support
Frazer-Nash also provided a wide range of systems engineering support to the full-scale testing project, including:
- Assistance with test planning
- Production of the test documentation
- Assistance with procurement of equipment
- Specification of ancillary equipment
- On-site commissioning of the test equipment
Outcomes
Testing began in late March 2009, and Aquamarine Power generated electricity for the first time on 1st April 2009. At the time of writing the test programme is ongoing and is already providing information useful not only for the deployment of the prototype Oyster® but also for the design of the next generation of Oyster® device.