Hydrodynamic performance of an oscillating water column WEC integrated with a pile-restrained H-type breakwater

Abstract

The present study examines the hydrodynamic performance of an oscillating water column (OWC) wave energy converter (WEC) integrated into a pile restrained H-type breakwater. A three-dimensional model study is performed using ANSYS-AQWA based on potential flow theory. The results for the incident wave excitation force, shear force, and bending moment on the pile restrained breakwater and the transmission coefficient are obtained for the regular waves. The effect of incident wave angle on the forces is assessed along with the impact of changes in relative draft and width of the device. The power capture efficiency as well as wave transformation characteristics of the device are evaluated using Boundary Element Method (BEM). The study performed will be helpful to scientists and researchers to design and develop an integrated hybrid breakwater system that can protect the coast and provide useful energy by minimising the impact on the marine ecological system and environment. © 2025 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.