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Energy conversion performance of a floating wave energy converter array composed of backward bent duct buoys

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  • Xu, Haochun
  • Zhang, Yongliang
  • Wang, Chen

Abstract

The array configuration of wave energy converters is regarded as a promising approach for efficiently capturing ocean wave energy and reducing the levelized cost of energy. Based on the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technology, the energy conversion performance of a floating wave energy converter array composed of backward bent duct buoys is investigated. The effects of lateral spacings and longitudinal spacings on the capture width ratio (CWR) of each unit, each row and the whole devices in a 3 × 3 array are explored. Furthermore, the CWR of an array with aligned and staggered layout are compared. The findings revealed that the lateral spacing has a greater impact on the CWR of the array than the longitudinal spacing. By selecting appropriate spacing, the CWR of the devices in the array can reach up to 1.405, which is 15.6 % higher than that of isolated devices. In addition, the staggered layout could have a negative effect on the CWR of the array at specific spacings, and the CWR of the array could be reduced to half that of the aligned layout.

Suggested Citation

  • Xu, Haochun & Zhang, Yongliang & Wang, Chen, 2025. "Energy conversion performance of a floating wave energy converter array composed of backward bent duct buoys," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 324(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:324:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225017426
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.136100
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