Quoceant tests novel WEC technology at FloWave

Edinburgh-based engineering firm Quoceant is testing its inflatable hull technology as part of the novel wave energy technology project for Wave Energy Scotland.

Quoceant is developing a novel concept to introduce the ability to change the machine hull volume on command.

Selectable hull volume change would allow a WEC to grow substantially to absorb more power during most of the year, while reverting to a smaller, robustly survivable form during storms.

The technology, dubbed Ectaci-Hull technology, uses inflatable volumes to cost effectively provide a gross increase in volume around a rigid load bearing core, according to Quoceant.

For testing at FloWave, the company is using a line-absorber type of WEC to test the technology, but Quoceant states the concept is applicable to many other WEC types as well.

Quoceant is testing the ‘inflated’ and ‘deflated’ versions of the same model in order to confirm the survivability and performance of Ectaci-Hull.

Demonstrating the differences in response between the two states will be a key outcome of the testing program, the company informed.

Ultimately, Quoceant is aiming to quantify the expected reduction in levelized cost of energy (LCOE), taking into account integrated capital cost, impact on annual average yield, operational costs and availability.

To remind, Quoceant was one of 8 technology developers selected by Wave Energy Scotland to receive £300,000 each through its second funding call to develop novel wave energy converters.

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