1. Catherine Leech, Cardiff University
Hydro-environmental Modelling of Wake Dynamics of Turbines and Sluices in Tidal Range Schemes.
Key areas of research:
Modelling of Wake Characteristics
Combining a physical model of the lagoon with a 2D depth averaged numerical model.
Optimisation of Turbine Configuration
To balance maximum energy output with minimum disruption to the environment whilst remaining commercially viable.
Modelling Realistic Conditions
To determine what conditions can be realistically expected within an operational tidal range lagoon and whether they could support the proposed aquaculture and recreational activities.
Contact
Catherine Leech
Supervisors:
Dr Reza Ahmadian
Prof Roger Falconer
Cardiff University
School of Engineering
Queen’s Buildings
The Parade
Cardiff CF24 3AA
Catherine Leech, Cardiff University
The great tidal range of the UK is, as yet, an untapped resource, estimated to be capable of providing up to 20% of the UK’s national energy demand1. However, obstacles to the use of this technology lie in concerns over the environmental impact that tidal range schemes may have. These issues need to be addressed in order for tidal power to have a chance in the UK and are the primary focus of this research.
Proposed tidal lagoon at Swansea Bay2
Hydraulics laboratory at Cardiff3
PURPOSE:
Modelling the wake dynamics of tidal range turbines will help decision makers to prove conclusively whether this is a sustainable technology i.e. whether it is able to operate under conditions that are not detrimental to the environment.
METHOD:
Physical model of a tidal lagoon to be built in hydraulics laboratory
Numerical model to be populated by data from physical model to enable predictions of conditions under different turbine configurations and basin shapes
Many promises have been made with regard to potential recreation and aquaculture but these have yet to be proven. Modelling the conditions created by the turbines will help determine if these activities are possible.
Accurate modelling of wake dynamics may also have applications in natural lagoons and be used by environmental groups to support healthy habitats.
Idealised schematic of the barrage at Swansea Bay2
2018
Design & Build Physical Model
Define Numerical Model
Calibrate & Validate Model
2019
Adapt Models/Test New Hypotheses
Generalise Lagoon Conditions
Optimise Barrage Configuration
2020
Continue to Develop Models
Investigate Aquaculture & Recreation
Industrial/Overseas Placement
2021
Finalise Results
Write Up Final Report
Present Findings
TIMELINE:
Sources:
1 Waters, S. and Aggidis, G. (2016) “Tidal range technologies and state of the art in review.” Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 59 (1), pp
2 Tidal Lagoon Power (2017) An iconic world first infrastructure project in South West Wales. Available at:
3 Brammer, J., Falconer, R.A., Ellis, C. and Ahmadian, R. (2014) “Physical and numerical modelling of the Severn Barrage.” Science China Technological Sciences, 57 (8) pp