Performance of Wells Turbines for Use in Small-Scale Oscillating Water Columns

摘要

This paper will assess the viability of small Wells turbines for oscillating water columns. The paper reports on a complete assessment of the integration of the system. It begins with a study using computational fluid dynamic analysis of a small double stage turbine. The analysis is carried though to assess performance under reciprocating airflow conditions. Experimental data will be put forward from the mounting of a turbine on a small-scale oscillating water column. The turbine will be connected to a DC machine to act as the generator for the system. While the system is simply a demonstrator, information about the column dynamics and turbine sizing is obtained.