Partners: ÉireComposites, University of Galway and ORPC Ireland.
Funding: This project is funded by the 2024 SEAI National Energy Research, Development and Demonstration (RDD) Funding Programme.
Project Background
The TidalHealth project represents an advancement in structural health monitoring for tidal turbine foils through the integration of optical fibre sensors and an innovative 3D printing technology to fabricate a network of sensors into the ORPC’s foils. This innovative approach is distinguished by two main methodologies: distributed sensing and quasi-distributed systems. 1. Distributed Sensing: The project will deploy distributed sensing, enabling continuous monitoring along the entire optical fibre length. 2. Quasi-Distributed Systems
Project Objectives
The TidalHealth project aims to develop an advanced structural health monitoring system for detecting damage and failure in tidal turbine foils by incorporating optical fibres. This will be achieved through two different approaches. The first approach is distributed sensing, where the measured data can be obtained at any point along an optical fibre, allowing for continuous monitoring along the entire length of the fibre. The second approach involves quasi-distributed systems that utilise multiple single-point sensors. This method enables the comprehensive monitoring of large structures by placing sensors at critical points to detect localised issues effectively.
- Advanced Structural Health Monitoring: Real-time damage detection using distributed and quasi-distributed fibre optic sensors.
- Optimised Foil Design & Manufacturing: Development of a 6-metre helical tidal foil with cost-effective, high-performance composite materials.
- Performance & Risk Mitigation: Full-scale testing to validate reliability and optimise operational efficiency.
- Scalable Production: Streamlined manufacturing techniques to support high-volume turbine deployment and reduce costs
Project Consortium
ÉireComposites Teo – an innovative design, manufacturing, and testing company, involved in lightweight, high-performance fibre-reinforced composite materials, with an international blue-chip customer base of over 70 companies in the aerospace and renewable energy sectors.
University of Galway – The Advanced and Sustainable Manufacturing and Materials Engineering (ASMME) group at the University of Galway focuses on developing advanced composite and polymer materials, along with advanced manufacturing techniques like additive manufacturing and 3D printing.
ORPC – a global leader in hydrokinetic power system technology and project development, focusing on marine renewable energy (MRE) opportunities in the European market. With a track record dating back to 2012, ORPC has deployed 8 full-scale power systems in North America, including groundbreaking projects such as the first ocean energy project to deliver power to a utility grid in the Americas.
Expected Impacts
The TidalHealth project will enhance the tidal energy sector by improving infrastructure longevity, reducing environmental impact, and supporting large-scale adoption of renewable energy. By integrating real-time structural health monitoring, it aligns with Ireland’s National Strategic Outcomes and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, promoting sustainable, climate-resilient solutions.
SDG’s
The project further aligns very well with several of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, mainly:
- Goal 7: Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.
- Goal 11: Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.
- Goal 12: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.
- Goal 13: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
To learn more about ÉireComposites’ expertise in renewable energy projects, have a look here:
