The project involves improving the processes used to manufacture components for tidal turbine generators and enhancing overall operating efficiencies. Tidal turbines are a bit like wind turbines, except that they are underwater and are powered by tidal movements rather than wind.
ACG is leading a team which is looking at new materials for tidal turbines, and will investigate the possibilities for optimising energy efficiency through the development of new carbon and glass fibre reinforced resin systems. These systems will be optimised to counter fatigue effects, which could allow for reductions in the design allowables. By applying aerospace technologies, ACG and its partners also aim to design more efficient tidal turbines.
The project, combined with a project on ceramic matrix composites for gas turbines, could receive over £2 million from the UK's Technology Strategy Board and Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
ACG, which is based in Derbyshire, UK, is part of the Composites Division of Umeco plc.
