The group has access to high spec computers for hydrodynamic, structural and mathematical modelling packages. In addition, the group has a wide range of laboratory and field sites for testing.
Wave Tank
The Engineering department has had wave tank testing facilites since the 1970s. We have recently finsihed the construction of our new, larger wave tank. It is 11 m long, 2.5m wide and 1.7 m depth. Waves are created by 7 force feedback paddles. The paddles are capable of creating Pierson Markowitz spectra appropriate for 1/50th to 1/100th scale testing. Sine wave frequencies between 0.5-1.5~Hz are possible with amplitudes up to 100mm. The tank is equipped with 16 wave gauges, plus a variety of other data aquisition software. The area has a wireless connection. While primarily used for internal research and a valuable teaching aid, our facilities are available for use by external copmanies. for more deatils regarding availability, rates and possible funding assistance, contact Steve Quayle.
Tidal Flume
The tidal flume is currenlty being upgraded. An artist's impression of the flume is shown in the lower images on the right. The wave tank has been designed to allow the swift integration of the tidal flume once construction as been completed.
The specification for the refurbished flume has been derived by studying existing tidal stream devices and concepts, exploring their size and requirements with suitable predictions as to how they may change in future (as has been witnessed with the growth in wind turbine blades to now exceeding 100m diameter) . Research has also investigated typical tidal flow conditions and what needs to be recreated to form an accurate simulation not only from an engineering standpoint, but the environmental impact and bathymetry changes.
Low Head Hydro power
Funding was awarded for
river test facilites for hydropower, installed in October 2008
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Laboratory Facilites
Previous test facilites on the River Kent
