Capturing Wave Energy The energy in waves can be used to generate electricity. The waves off the northwest coasts of the U.S. would be good for making electricity.
Oscillating Water Column
Oscillator Water Column VENT
CHAMBER
One way to capture wave energy is with a device called an oscillating water column. It is basically a big pipe called a chamber with a turbine inside. One end of the chamber is always in the water.
CLIFF FACE WAVE VENT
As the waves flow into the chamber, the air inside the chamber is pushed through a turbine, making it spin. A generator connected to the turbine produces electricity. As the waves flow out of the chamber, air from outside is pulled in, spinning the turbines again. There are also floating devices that can capture the energy in the waves. They make electricity as they move up and down with the waves.
TURBINE
TURBINE
Air pushed through by incoming wave
CHAMBER
WAVE VENT
There are not any big commercial wave energy plants, but there are a few small ones. The only wave power projects in the United States are experimental, but a large system may soon be built off the coast of Oregon.
TURBINE
Air pulled back as wave retreats
CHAMBER
WAVE
Wave Energy Converter Wave Power Buoys FLOATING TUBES POWER CABLE
JOINTS
Waves cause each buoy to rise and fall like a giant sea snake. The motion tugs at the joints linking the tubes. The joints act as a pump, pushing oil through motors that drive the generators to produce electricity. The wave energy buoys will be connected to the sea floor, and to customers with underwater power cables.
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Wonders of Water