The SCHOTTEL Instream Turbine (SIT) is a lightweight generator of hydrokinetic energy, whose design is based on the fact that reducing turbine size leads to a better ratio of power and material use.
One SIT produces between 54 and 70 kW of electric power, depending on the current velocity and the size of the rotor.
A single SIT weighs about 1 t, which can result in 1 MW of installed power using about twenty SIT turbines at the weight of 20 t or less.
SIT features passive-adaptive composite blades with no need for any active pitch mechanism. Its drive train is standardized with a two-stage planetary gearbox and an induction generator. The ambient water ensures a steady operating temperature of the generator, thus no additional cooling mechanism is needed. An optional multi-disc brake is available for very harsh environments or in case it is required by a regulator.
SIT turbines can be combined with multiple support structures: fixed land-based, floating, and semi-submerged or fully submerged platforms. There is a possibility of sluice gate installation as well.
The SIT turbines are equipped with an induction generator converting the variable rotation into electric power.
Full-scale tests were performed in Strangford Narrows, Northern Ireland. The tests included 260 operating hours and were carried out in accordance with the latest standards of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).
Take a look at the video showing SIT development and prototype sea trials.
Source/Images: SCHOTTEL