Two-way coupled fluid-structure interaction (FSI) simulations on a horizontal-axis tidal current turbine

This study develops a two-way coupled fluid-structure interaction model for a 0.5 m diameter laboratory-scale Reference Model 1 tidal turbine, integrating a computational fluid dynamics solver with a finite element analysis solver. The model independently solves fluid and structural equations while exchanging boundary conditions at the fluid-solid interface, capturing the dynamic response of the turbine structure to hydrodynamic loads. This interaction is critical for understanding deformations and oscillatory motions that may significantly impact the structural integrity and performance of tidal turbines. We evaluate hydrodynamic and structural parameters, including power coefficients, torque, thrust, deformation, stress, and strain, comparing outputs from both standalone computational fluid dynamics and the fluid-structure interaction models to assess the impact of fluid-structure interaction. The findings demonstrate the utility of the two-way coupled fluid-structure interaction model in accurately predicting the performance and lifespan of tidal turbines under varied loading conditions, offering insights to optimize turbine design for enhanced efficiency and durability. This research provides a foundation for advancing marine renewable energy technologies and for improving the design and analysis of tidal turbine systems.