Study on performance of Savonius rotor type wave energy converter used in conjunction conventional rubble mound breakwater

Abstract

In the present study the performance characteristics of a wave energy converter used in conjunction with conventional rubble mound breakwater is investigated using physical model studies. Savonius rotor type converter is used in the present study. The rotor is placed in front of the breakwater towards seaward side can cause substantial wave attenuation and thereby reduce the impact on the breakwaters apart from generating electricity. Regular waves of wide ranging heights and periods are considered in the present study. Tests are carried out for different spacing between the breakwater and the wave energy converter (X/d=10 to 40) and for two depth cases viz. shaft of the rotor at SWL (z=0) and rotor fully submerged case (z=-55 mm). The dead weight loading (shaft power) capacity for the rotor is also optimised in the present study. From the experimental study, it is observed that at a distance of X/d=22.5 to 30 and for submerged case (z=-55 mm) the rotor is found to be most efficient. It results in a wave height attenuation of 15-33%. © 2014 Elsevier Ltd.