Experimental Testing and Evaluation of WECs

Abstract

The main objective of a tests campaign is to support the related research and development and to evaluate a particular characteristic or parameter of (a subsystem of) the WEC. These experimental tests can be done in three different environments: in a controlled and wet environment (referred to by tank testing), a controlled and dry environment (referred to by test bench) and in an uncontrollable wet environment (referred to by sea trials). Experimental tests on the full or subsystems of the device can be performed during all the development stages of the WEC, and well beyond.