The Study of a New Tidal Power for a Practical Use

Abstract

Dynamic Tidal Power (DTP), a kind of tidal power was first developed 20 years ago but it has never been actually built. Because DTP generates power using the diffraction effect of tides, it requires very long and large structures considering tidal period. Economic feasibility is most demanded for a practical use and various studies have been conducted to increase its output. Different shape and length DTPs had been tested in a previous study but they were not economical. For this reason, other ways were simulated to increase power generation in the study. Multiple and slit-type DTPs were chosen. It was found that the proper spacing between DTP structures was necessary for efficient power generation considering tidal diffraction effect. Because the intensity of light is varied as it passes through a single slit, a slit-type DTP was analyzed. The result from a slit-type DTP was failed to improve capacity but it was similar to those of a straight DTP. Because a slit-type DTP required less structure, it would be more economical and environmentally friendly. The study area was located in the west central coast of Korea where the tidal range was the largest and water depth was shallow. The simulations were conducted by the two dimensional numerical model ADCIRC.