Turbulence: Characteristics and its implications in tidal current energy device testing

Abstract

The need for a tidal energy conversion system is enumerated in addition to the possible challenges in its installation and operations, stemming from the interactions of the energy device with its surrounding. The highly idealised case of isotropic, homogenous and stationary turbulence is discussed and its deviation from real flows, as observed in a tidal estuary is presented. Also, the principle of dimensional analysis and the concept of similarity are introduced, as tools to access the effect of scaling in a tidal current energy device testing. A better understanding of the structure of turbulence in any tidal site allows for the right choice of dimensionless numbers that are relevant to the system. Turbulence characteristic differ from site to site and, introducing an energy device into the environment modifies the velocity and pressure distribution of the site. The dimensionless numbers essential for the tidal current energy conversion process are clearly defined. © 2008 IEEE.