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Hydroelectric Generators: Oscillating Water Column vs. Tapered Water Channel

CSEF · 2012 Electronics & Electromagnetics

Alexander C. Engel · North Creek Academy, Walnut Creek, Contra Costa County

Overview

Objectives/Goals The objective was to determine which hydroelectric generator produces the highest electrical output, the Oscillating Water Column or the Tapered Water Channel. My hypothesis was that the Oscillating Water Column generator would produce a higher electrical output than the Tapered Water Channel. Methods/Materials Models of the Oscillating Water Column and Tapered Water Channel generators were constructed out of household and easily obtainable materials. Both generators were fitted with the same size turbines and generators. The generators were tested in five trials each, simulating ocean wave action with the same amount of wave volume and frequency. Results The peak electrical output of the Oscillating Water Column generator was higher than the Tapered Water Channel generator in all five trials. Conclusions/Discussion My conclusion is that the Oscillating Water Column generator consistently produces a higher electrical output than the Tapered Water Channel generator in ocean wave conditions of the same volume and frequency.

Summary statement

My project compares the electrical outputs of Oscillating Water Column and Tapered Water Channel hydroelectric generators.

Help received

My mother helped get the correct materials and read the electrical outputs while I simulated the wave motion for each generator. Parents and teachers proofread my report.

Competition history

  • CSEF 2012 Electronics & Electromagnetics · Entry J0912

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