Tidal Energy

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Deployed by 2 companies

Reliable vertical axis water turbine with increased efficiency

Page last modified

April 11 2024

Vertical Axis Water Turbines of Water2Energy have foils connected to a central vertical shaft that protrudes the waterline, so vital components like the gearbox and generator are above the water surface. This reduces the requirements for the watertightness and sealings, reducing the costs of these components significantly. Foils have a very cost effective standard and constant cross section. Since the gearbox and generator are easily accessible, maintenance will be more cost effective too. In addition W2E has a system for pitch control of the vertical foils, thus further improving the efficiencies of the turbine. Pitch control was tested on fish friendliness during the international Pro-tide program. Till recently, the abnormal fish mortality up to 20% (In the older Kaplan-turbines) is still accepted, but the turbine of Water2Energy showed a fish mortality lower than 1%, conform upcoming regulations.

Pros & Limitations

Since the foils have a standard and constant cross section, they can be fabricated very cost effective

Pitch control is developed for maximum efficiency

Fish friendly i.e. the turbine of Water2Energy shows a fish mortality lower than 1%

Robust design and build of the turbines

The turbine can be adapted to a wide range of existing constructions

Relatively new technology, demonstrated but limited long term operational experience

Specification

Specification Title	Specification Description
Cost	Lower (maintenance) costs of vital parts above water and a standard and constant cross section of the vertical foils.
Sizes	Due to its geometry, the turbine is easily scalable. Turbines of 1 x 1 meter, 1.5 x 2 meter, 2 x 2 meter and 2 x 4 meter were tested.
Speed	The pitch control enables energy extraction at lower cut in speed and from water currents at lower speeds.