Tidetec steps closer to real sea testing

Tidetec, a Norway-based hydropower developer, is conducting final preparations of its turbine turning mechanism prototype ahead of real sea testing in Svelvik, Norway.

The prototype is intended to simulate a large scale barrage or lagoon application for a low head hydro turbine. The device will be tested in a tidal stream environment beginning next month, but the full size application is intended for barrage and tidal lagoon power plants, Tidetec informed.

However, the focus of this prototype is the turning application, and the method of turning the device, not the turbine itself.

“As many different turbines can be modified to fit inside the turret, we have not focused on the turbine as a first priority. In addition we have designed the prototype so the turbine can be replaced, and changed to accommodate different turbines,” the company said.

The prototype will consist of a polymer caisson, a steel turret with a turbine and a rotating drive and CPU to control the timing and set points of the rotation, according to Tidetec.