Ocean’s energy has been the source of relief for the environmentalists. With the fossil fuels facing allegations of corroding the earth with its emission of harmful gases, ocean energy has come to the world’s rescue. Ocean is the best resource the mankind can ever have. Ocean energy science is based on principles that are derived from hydrodynamics and electrical engineering.
Ocean energy can be produced using the Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion process. This method involves using the vast temperature difference in the ocean water to create electricity. When the sun shines, it heats up the surface water of the ocean but the water below lies cold. As such a temperature difference is created which can be used to be converted into electricity.
OTEC method can be done using three types of systems: Closed-Cycle, Open-Cycle and Hybrid systems. In a closed system,
ocean power energy is converted into electricity by using a fluid with low boiling point to rotate a turbine. In an open system, the warm surface water is made to boil by using a low pressure container which results in steam that is used to rotate a turbine. The turbine in turn moves the generator. A hybrid system combines both systems to generate electricity.
10-24-2009, 03:46 AM
