Marine energy testing tank sets sights on new horizons

Post date: 

Wed, 29/03/2017 - 11:51

A world-leading marine energy testing facility is to become a fully integrated part of the University of Edinburgh - ensuring its continuation as a global centre of excellence in wave and tidal technologies.

The FloWave Ocean Energy Research Facility - a 25-metre diameter tank that can recreate complex waves and fast currents - focuses on research, development and testing.

Built in 2014 as a standalone facility on the University's King's Buildings campus, FloWave has already become one of the world's leading and most used wave and tidal test facilities.

It has been used by a wide range of academic and commercial clients from home and abroad to recreate any ocean current in the world, enabled by the tank’s 360 degree symmetry and size. Complex waves and currents for normal, challenging and extreme conditions can be easily simulated, repeated and adjusted as necessary.

Stuart Brown, FloWave Chief Executive, said:

"The University of Edinburgh has an extraordinary pedigree in ocean energy research stretching back more than four decades. By integrating FloWave into the School of Engineering, researchers and commercial clients will be able to draw on the expertise of the School’s Institute for Energy Systems and the Institute for Materials and Processes. Both of these multi-disciplinary institutes are internationally recognised in research, development and innovation."

The development is due to be completed by the summer, with all services to commercial and academic clients expected to continue as normal.

Professor Hugh McCann, Head of the School of Engineering at the University, said:

"I am delighted to confirm that the School of Engineering will continue the excellent research and development already under way in FloWave, furthering the School’s industry-leading innovation in the fields of wave and tidal technology. Innovation, and finding solutions to meet society's aspirations, are key motivators for the School which are reflected in the work and vision of FloWave."

FloWave TT Ocean Simulator video

This video was filmed during "Doors Open Day 2015" and can be viewed on MediaHopper.

Further and Related Information

An aerial view of the FloWave TT wave and current test tank
An aerial view of the FloWave TT wave and current test tank, photo credit: Callum Bennetts

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