Technology
Advanced engineering makes simple solutions
Flumill has developed a unique and patented technology that harvests energy from the natural flow of water (ocean streams, tidal streams and rivers) to produce clean, predictable energy at a competitive cost and with limited environmental impact.
Flumill’s core technology is based around a highly efficient twin helix turbine that generates high energy output. Underpinned by two patents, with additional IP being generated.
The first system developed was seabed mounted and a floating system is now also under development utilising the same core technology.
The kinetic energy of the tidal stream causes the helix to rotate.
The mechanical energy is then converted into electricity by a generator.
The hinged turbine works with the forces of nature, making it highly efficient and robust (towards waves and impact). The uniquely curved shape of the helix enhances the volume of energy captured.
The technology is based on know-how from the Norwegian Oil & Gas industry, several years of concept development and testing and investment of circa €10 million
Configuration Options
Floating System
Water Depth: 30 to >200m
Global Sites: 2,100
Power Output: up to 1MW
- Suited to deeper waters and areas with less maritime infrastructure
- Exploits swiftest tidal flows
- Can be integrated with solar, storage etc
- Quick mobilisation, easy access and maintenance
Seabed System
Water Depth: 30 to 100m
Global Sites: 1,600
Power Output: up to 3MW
- Suited to rough conditions
- Suited to shallower water than the surface system
- Avoids navigational interference
- Easy cable interface and cost-effective mobilisation
Horizontal System
Water Depth: 5 to 25m
Global Sites: 1,600
Power Output: up to 0.5MW
- Optimal technical solution in shallow waters
- Many shallow water sites (near-shore)
- Suitable also for run of river and hydro secondary recovery
- Cost effective mobilisation
River System
Market Applicability: Run of river
Power Output: <100kW
- Micro-scale device
- Suited to remote communities and off-grid systems
- Testing and deployment of successive units is quick and relatively cheap due to scale of units
Flumill Floating System Overview
Flumill’s Floating System is a twin-turbine assembly installed on a catamaran platform. The power output is determined by the diameter of the turbine. The model below has a 3m diameter turbine and estimated power output of [260 kW] and will be tested at EMEC.
Click on the image to read more
Core Technology - Helix
The heart of the system. An efficient, robust and self-regulating design that works with nature. Low impact on marine life. Helix and control fin of GRP/composite construction.
Floater/Catamaran
Innovative hull design developed to maintain the helix in a position of maximum efficiency as the tides, or river waters, ebb and flow.
Electrical System
The “brain” of the system. Sensor and monitoring system; electrical components; control system; energy storage system; solar cells.
Mooring Arrangement
Single-point mooring configuration with a turret module, where the platform and mooring design are optimised. Slip ring connection to export cable.
Flumill Seabed System Overview
Flumill’s Seabed System is a twin-turbine assembly installed on a bottom frame. The power output is determined by the diameter of the turbine and the strength of the current. The model below has an 8m diameter turbine and estimated power output of 2MW depending on site.
Click on the image to read more
Core Technology - Helix
The heart of the system. An efficient, robust and self-regulating design that works with nature. Low impact on marine life. Helix and control fin of GRP/composite construction.
Bottom Frame
Innovative frame design developed to allow free pivoting of the helix, easy and efficient deployment/mounting, and base for equipment.
Electrical System
The “brain” of the system. Sensor and monitoring system, electrical components, control systems.
Mooring and Export Cable
Fast connection to seabed base and wet mate connector.
Approved Patents
System Patent
Patent application number WO2011NO00190, “Arrangement for Extracting Energy from Flowing Liquid”
Filed 4 July 2011
Blade Design
Patent GB 2524331 (B), “Hydrokinetic energy conversion system and use thereof”
Filed 21 March 2014
Pending Patent
Control Fin Geometry
Reference number AR606652880, “Positioning device and system for extracting energy from a waterflow”
Filed March 19th 2024
Videos
Flumill Seabed
Tank testing Edinburgh
Installation
CDF a
CDD b
First tank test
Tow testing in Arendal
First test at EMEC
Marine Fauna Friendly
