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Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences
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Tribological design constraints of marine renewable energy systems

Robert J. K. Wood

Robert J. K. Wood

National Centre for Advanced Tribology at Southampton (nCATS), School of Engineering Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK

[email protected]

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AbuBakr S. Bahaj

AbuBakr S. Bahaj

Sustainable Energy Research Group, School of Civil Engineering and the Environment, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK

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Stephen R. Turnock

Stephen R. Turnock

Fluid Structure Interactions Research Group, Froude Building, School of Engineering Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK

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Ling Wang

Ling Wang

National Centre for Advanced Tribology at Southampton (nCATS), School of Engineering Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK

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Martin Evans

Martin Evans

National Centre for Advanced Tribology at Southampton (nCATS), School of Engineering Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK

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Published:28 October 2010https://doi.org/10.1098/rsta.2010.0192

    Abstract

    Against the backdrop of increasing energy demands, the threat of climate change and dwindling fuel reserves, finding reliable, diverse, sustainable/renewable, affordable energy resources has become a priority for many countries. Marine energy conversion systems are at the forefront of providing such a resource. Most marine renewable energy conversion systems require tribological components to convert wind or tidal streams to rotational motion for generating electricity while wave machines typically use oscillating hinge or piston within cylinder geometries to promote reciprocating linear motion. This paper looks at the tribology of three green marine energy systems, offshore wind, tidal and wave machines. Areas covered include lubrication and contamination, bearing and gearbox issues, biofouling, cavitation erosion, tribocorrosion, condition monitoring as well as design trends and loading conditions associated with tribological components. Current research thrusts are highlighted along with areas needing research as well as addressing present-day issues related to the tribology of offshore energy conversion technologies.

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