Measurement and modelling of induction generator performance in an oscillating water column wave energy converter

A study has been made on power takeoff from an oscillating water column wave energy device. An induction generator can be overloaded to meet peak powers. The maximum overload of an induction generator is limited by internal temperature which is determined by the cooling ability of its environment and the induction generator losses. Measurements of the cooling present in an OWC and its effects on the induction generator temperatures are detailed. A thermal modelling is carried out in MotorCAD and used to extend the measurements.