Aquamarine Power unveils next gen wave energy converter 19 August 2011

Aquamarine Power's next-generation hydro-electric wave energy converter, Oyster 800, has been unveiled at a ceremony at Burntisland Fabrications' yard in Fife, Scotland.

The machine operates in the same way as its predecessor Oyster 1, but, according to its developer, uses data and lessons learned from the first machine to improve power output, simplify installation and allow easier maintenance.

The shape has also been modified and the device made wider to enable it to capture more wave energy. It is now mounted on two seabed piles, rather than four, to simplify installation.

Oyster 800 will be the first of three devices to be installed at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC), with further Oysters to be deployed in 2012 and 2013. All three will be linked to an onshore hydro-electric plant to form a 2.4MW array.

Engineering consultancy Halcrow was responsible for the design of the primary structure, including the flap, base frame and piled foundations. The company also covered the design and detailing of a number of mechanical assemblies, including the ballast and latching systems.

Brian Tinham

Related Companies
Aquamarine Power
Halcrow

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