There are two types of machines which convert wave energy to electricity via turbines. The first method relies on water flowing through the turbine, while the second method is based on air flow being caught by the wind turbine.
The setup of the first method consists of multiple parts. It starts with the ocean waves flowing through the float, which is then pushed up and down along the waves’ peaks and troughs. This activates the piston, increasing the pressure within the pump. When the pressure reaches a certain level, the intake valve will open and water is pumped up to the storage tank. Gravity will pull down the water from the tank back to the ocean via the outlet pipe. During this process, water flows through the turbine, which converts the energy to electricity with the machinery of a generator.
The second method requires fewer components than the first one. As the wave passes through the machine, water will be pushed up at the lower part. This squeezes the air out from the lower portion, creating a pressure imbalance on the system. In order to restore the balance, air flows back into the machine, pushing the water level down to its ordinary level. The movements of air when it flows out and back in pushes the turbine’s blades located at the middle of the system. This generates electricity to be transferred to households.
Both devices show how electricity can be generated from clean and sustainable sources.