The interaction of marine rotors and ocean waves

The loadings on a submerged tidal stream energy converter over its lifetime are a function of the environmental conditions that it encounters. These conditions are dominated by two factors; the tidal regime and the wave climate. These factors are particular to a specific location.

An analysis was undertaken to estimate the occurrence of different wave types. The most relevant factors in calculating loadings on offshore structures are wave frequency and amplitude. These affect the magnitude and occurrence of the forces on the structure which is important for the estimation of both extreme and fatigue loads.