Flumill, a Norway-based tidal energy company, has developed a tidal energy system that uses helix screws designed for water based streams.
The top fin controls the operational angle and stability of the Flumill system. The fin connects the two turbines and supports the upper bearings.
A watertight compartment houses the generator and other equipment, and also provides structural strength and support for pivot bearing and turbine shaft bearing.
According to Flumill, the counter rotating helixes and the natural adjustment of their operational angle according to the flow of the water ensure a low load on housing and the foundation.
The foundation consists of a steel structure attached to the seabed using predrilled piles or a gravity base structure.
The Flumill systems can operate in ocean/tidal streams at less than 1 m/s flow and can be adapted for use in rivers.
Image: EMEC/Flumill system