Wave Interaction with a Double Chamber Oscillating Water Column Device

The principle of oscillating water column within a chamber due to the propagating oscillatory ocean waves being converted into clean energy through wave energy convertor referred to as Oscillating water column (OWC) device is a well proven concept that still remains as one of the most promising alternate sources of energy from the Ocean. The OWC has single column of water oscillation, whereas, Double Chamber Oscillating Water Column (DCOWC) has two chambers of water oscillation. DCOWC is relatively a new concept. In this paper, the performance characteristics of a DCOWC is evaluated through a well-controlled experimental investigation in a wave flume. The conceptual design aspect of DCOWC and its uniqueness compared with the present state of art in wave energy converters (WECs) are explained. The efficiency of the system is assessed by considering the variations in the geometrical dimensions of the system along with the different characteristics of incident waves. The methodology adopted for evaluating the hydrodynamic performance in terms of energy conversion efficiency, the development of additional structural stability and the wave amplification at the mouth are discussed and its significances are highlighted by presenting the results in a dimensionless form. The analysis of the results indicates the feasibility of the DCOWC concept in harnessing energy from the waves.