Comparing The Performance Of Different Geometries of Fixed OWC-type Wave Energy Devices Using CFD Simulations

Abstract

The Oscillating Water Column (OWC) stands out as one of the most promising wave energy converter (WEC) concepts to advance to the stage of full-scale prototype development, and a number of studies have been conducted on it. However, despite the considerable efforts of researchers and developers, this concept has not yet achieved commercial maturity, and there remains a scarcity of knowledge regarding the ideal OWC chamber geometry for efficiently harnessing wave energy. The main objective of this study is to support the development of a floating hybrid OWC – solar energy module planned for deployment within the Maldives. To meet design specifications and ensure manufacturing feasibility, we’ve opted for a hexagonal chamber geometry for the OWC device. Therefore, this paper presents the set-up, validation, and application of a two-phase incompressible 3D Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model based on the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations and volume of fluid (VOF) surface capturing scheme approach, for a comparative study on the performance of fixed, detached from the seabed, cylindrical, rectangular, and hexagonal OWC WEC geometries. Simulations seek to evaluate the combined effect of key design parameters and wave conditions on the performance of the OWC device. The findings of this study are expected to assist in optimizing the chamber shapes to achieve maximum efficiency, while also providing significant value for the design, construction, and operation of practical OWC devices.