Marine waves have the potential of playing a significant role in future energy production. Most converter prototypes utilise a hydrostatic transmission or Power-Take Off (PTO) to convert the mechanical motion of an oscillating body to generate electrical power. A test rig has been installed at the Institute for Fluid Power Drives and Controls (IFAS) together with Aquamarine Power and Bosch Rexroth. Currently a new PTO is tested with this test rig. This new PTO is called WavePOD and is intended to become an industry wide standard by providing flexibility to suit a range of different wave energy converters. Accordingly, it is planned that, different to former PTOs proposed, WavePOD is not designed for only one wave energy converter, but can be used with minor adaptions for various types. Thus, it is aimed to achieve economies of scale, decreasing WavePOD’s costs in comparison to other PTOs. Within this paper important components of the hydraulic transmission such as cylinders, check valves, accumulators and pressure relief valves are investigated in terms of their characteristic behaviour during operation. For the various components the simulation model is presented and validated with test results. Thereby the focus is on dynamic behaviour and power losses. The results will enable to monitor the components behaviour during operation without requiring a surplus of sensor data.

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