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PRIMRE/Databases/Projects Database/Devices/AquaBuOY
From Open Energy Information
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AquaBuOY
AquaBuOY wave energy converters rely on the heaving buoy concept. Energy transfer from the motion of ocean waves takes place by converting the vertical component of wave kinetic energy into pressurized water flow by means of two opposing, full-cycle, hose pumps. Pumped water is directed into a conversion system consisting of a Pelton turbine driving a conventional electrical generator. As the buoy moves up and down on the surface of the waves, water is drawn in and out of the submerged acceleration tube. The acceleration tube is a vertical hollow cylinder attached to the body of the buoy and open at both ends to allow unimpeded entry and exit of seawater in either direction. Alternating movement of water inside the acceleration tube acts upon piston, thus moving it out of phase relative to the motion of the body of the buoy. The motion of the piston is then converted to useful energy by a power takeoff system (PTO)-hose pumps. Each AquaBuOY is approximately 15–20 feet in diameter, sized (tuned) according to the energy content of the prevailing seas at the installation site. Converters are installed offshore, in water depth of 150 to 250 feet.
Device Status
Is the device actively being developed or is available for purchase (active)? Or has development or support ended (inactive)?
Inactive
Technology Type
Power Take-Off
Mechanism that converts the motion of the prime mover into a useful form of energy such as electricity, learn more
Direct Drive Generator
Max Rated Power Capacity
The maximum amount of electricity that can be produced by the device, as rated by the manufacturer.
250 KW
Surface ExpressionTrue
Estimated TRL
Estimated Technology Readiness Level scale from 1 to 9 with 9 being the most mature technology
3
Energy Resource
- Wave
Water Column Position
Surface
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Submerged - Mid
Entire Water Column
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Submerged - Bottom
Last Modified
3 June 2025
Citation Formats
“AquaBuOY.” Marine Energy Projects Database: Devices, PRIMRE, United States Department of Energy, https://openei.org/wiki/PRIMRE/Databases/Projects_Database/Devices/AquaBuOY. Accessed <day> <monthRoman> <year>.
Marine Energy Projects Database: Devices. <year>. "AquaBuOY." Accessed <monthRoman> <day>, <year>. https://openei.org/wiki/PRIMRE/Databases/Projects_Database/Devices/AquaBuOY.
