Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

2016

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Mahfuz, Hassan

Abstract

Several modifications have been implemented to numerical simulation codes based on blade element momentum theory (BEMT), for application to the design of ocean current turbine (OCT) blades. The modifications were applied in terms of section modulus and include adjustments due to core inclusion, buoyancy, and added mass. Hydrodynamic loads and mode shapes were calculated using the modified BEMT based analysis tools. A 3D model of the blade was developed using SolidWorks. The model was integrated with ANSYS and several loading scenarios, calculated from the modified simulation tools, were applied. A complete stress and failure analysis was then performed. Additionally, the rainflow counting method was used on ocean current velocity data to determine the loading histogram for fatigue analysis. A constant life diagram and cumulative fatigue damage model were used to predict the OCT blade life. Due to a critical area of fatigue failure being found in the blade adhesive joint, a statistical analysis was performed on experimental adhesive joint data.

Extent

103 p.

Comments

Includes bibliography.|Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2016.|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Includes bibliography.

Identifier

FA00004727

Format

pdf

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