System Uses Power Of The Ocean Waves To Produce Clean Electricity

Valley Forge, PA - In today's world, we are dependent on energy sources that are being depleted, becoming expensive, and are damaging to the environment. Houghton International and Ocean Power Technologies (OPT) are developing ways to insure a cleaner environment.

Ocean Power Technologies, Inc. is a leader in cost-effective, advanced, and environmentally sound offshore wave technology. The PowerBuoy system developed by OPT uses the natural energy of ocean waves to produce low-cost, clean electricity. It is based on the integration of patented technologies in hydrodynamics, electronics, conversion mechanics, and computer control systems.

Houghton International a developer of hydraulic fluids for use in industry. Houghton International has formulated a hydraulic fluid based on vegetable oil technology. Cosmolubric TR 2000 is an environmentally friendly, renewable resource which will disperse in water and not create an oil slick. Cosmolubric TR 2000 was a perfect fit for OPT's WaveBuoy system.

The WaveBuoy uses the motion of the waves to move the hydraulic cylinders up and down. This mechanical stroking drives an electrical generator. The generated AC power is converted into high-voltage DC and transmitted ashore via an underwater power cable.

In the case of a hydraulic cylinder leak, Cosmolubric TR 2000 will disperse in the ocean water and not cause a slick. Since Cosmolubric TR 2000 is a vegetable oil-based product, it has no adverse affects on the surrounding ecosystem.

For the harsh environment, Cosmolubric TR 2000 has been formulated with additives to protect against system corrosion and provide the lubrication needed for this demanding application.

Ocean Power Technologies and Houghton International are dedicated to providing products that are safe and environmentally friendly, and that are based on renewable resources.

SOURCE: Houghton International