ITH On the ocean
CorPower Ocean: Innovative wave energy technology with ITH fasteners
The energy of tomorrow lies in the oceans: modern wave energy converters (WEC) can generate renewable energy directly from the forces of the ocean waves. With innovative technology and customized connection solutions from ITH Bolting Technology, the pioneering CorPower Ocean project from Sweden has become a reality.
Industry
Offshore & Maritime
Technology
Bolt Tensioning Cylinders & Fasteners
Year
2024
Offshore bolting technology for innovative wave energy
The demand for environmentally friendly power generation is growing – and the oceans offer huge potential. CorPower Ocean, a pioneering technology company based in Stockholm, is developing state-of-the-art wave energy converters (WEC) to convert ocean waves into renewable energy. Thanks to its unique technology, wave energy could soon play a significant role in the global energy mix. CorPower operates to the highest environmental standards and is set on working in partnership – also with ITH Bolting Technology.
At the heart of the CorPower technology is the wave energy converter, a compact point absorber on the surface of the water that effectively utilizes the energy of ocean waves. The floating buoy (outer diameter: 9 m, height: 9.80 m) already delivers up to 180 kW in pilot operation, with the prospect of 300 kW and later even 1 MW. The buoy is securely anchored to the seabed using the patented Universal Mooring, Anchor & Connectivity Kit (UMACK).
Particularly innovative: CorPower is set on a unique phase control technology. In coordinated operation, the buoy oscillates synchronously with the shafts, which maximizes the energy yield. In stormy conditions, the storm protection mode – inspired by the blade adjustment in wind turbines – enables protection against extreme conditions and guarantees maximum availability and service life.
CorPack & scalable wave parks: energy on a grand scale
Wave power plants of the future will be designed as modular CorPacks: Each CorPack consists of several wave energy converters, anchoring, electrical collection system and remote control. These modules can be interconnected in a simple way to realize large wave farms with an output of several hundred megawatts up to gigawatt capacity. The system is also optimized for hybrid use with offshore wind farms – for maximum flexibility and grid integration.
ITH solutions in use: key role in prototype and mass production
The collaboration between CorPower Ocean and ITH began back in 2019 with initial technical consultations and support for test stations and prototypes. The first prototype was successfully assembled in Viana do Castelo (Portugal) in 2022 using ITH bolting tools and fasteners.
Connection solutions implemented by ITH in the project:
- Hull and stiffness ring: 80 reduced shaft bolts M30 x 360 to ∅ 2,000 mm, mounted with ITH RMS 30 and Bolt Tensioning Cylinder ES30 (assembly preload: 200 kN, hydraulic tensioning force: 252 kN)
- Anchoring system: 56 bolts M42 x 680 and 40 bolts M42 x 335 on ∅ 1,350 mm or ∅ 950 mm, mounted with ITH RMS 42 SL and MS42 (hydraulic tensioning force: 500 kN)
- Pretensioning system: 42 ITH RMS 36 (uncoated), mounted with ES42 (hydraulic tensioning force: 700 kN)
Seawater-resistant coatings for underwater components and efficient zinc flake coatings for the upper hull ensure reliable corrosion protection.
Working together for a sustainable future
Our expertise in high-precision bolt connections is evident in every detail: training, individual advice and on-site support guarantee optimum installation quality and functional reliability even under the most demanding conditions. As ITH Bolting Technology, we make a decisive contribution to the implementation of innovative offshore and energy solutions that enable sustainable electricity generation from wave power.
Your project – our know-how:
Whether offshore wind, wave energy or other maritime applications: We will be happy to advise you on fasteners and assembly tools for use in the maritime environment. Get in touch with us!
Type ES 36-470
The single-stage Bolt Tensioning Cylinder Type ES combines a compact design, high safety and maximum flexibility for demanding bolting tasks.
Type ADS 3
The successor model, the innovative ITH ADS 4 battery-powered nut runners, sets new standards in industrial screwdriving technology, with a torque range of 500 to 7,000 Nm and an accuracy of ±3 %.
Internal radii r > 280 or r > 290
Products used
Bolt Tensioning Cylinder
Battery nut runners
Reduced shaft bolts / reduced-shank bolts and round nuts
Consulting
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