Question

What is the recommended method for removing hard marine growth from a WEC&#x27;s submerged structure?

Accepted Answer

The recommended method for removing hard marine growth from a Wave Energy Converter&#x27;s (WEC) submerged structure is typically high-pressure water jetting, often performed by remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) or divers. Marine growth, such as barnacles, mussels, and algae, can significantly increase the weight and drag on the WEC, reducing its efficiency and increasing the stress on its structure. High-pressure water jetting uses a focused stream of water at very high pressure to dislodge the marine growth from the surface. The pressure is typically in the range of 20,000 to 40,000 psi, which is sufficient to remove even the most tenacious marine organisms without damaging the underlying structure. ROVs are often used to perform the cleaning in deep water or in areas that are difficult for divers to access. Divers may be used in shallower water or for more complex cleaning tasks. The water jetting process should be carefully controlled to avoid damaging the WEC&#x27;s coatings or structural materials. Abrasive blasting is generally not recommended, as it can damage the surface and accelerate corrosion. After cleaning, the surface should be inspected for any signs of damage and recoated with an anti-fouling coating to prevent future marine growth.

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What is the recommended method for removing hard marine growth from a WEC's submerged structure?