Abstract
This paper proposes designs for blades and a water velocity amplification device for the development of a 5-kW duct-type floating tidal current turbine. In addition, it verifies the power performance by a CFD simulation. A BEM theory-based algorithm is used for iterative design and analysis to delay the onset of the chronic problem of cavitation in tidal current turbine blades. The HEEDS optimization software connected to CAE tools is applied to optimize the design of the duct shape, thereby improving the efficiency of the tidal current turbine. The performance of the designed turbine is verified using the CFD software STAR CCM+. A wave model is established to reflect the pressure variation in shallow water when analyzing the cavitation and power performance. The power and efficiency at the rated water velocity are 5 kW and 44 %, respectively. The results indicate that power can be stably controlled due to stalling under the high-flow-velocity condition