The Buhl correction factor applied to high induction conditions for tidal stream turbines

Blade Element Momentum Theory (BEMT) is a computationally efficient method of calculating the performance of a tidal stream turbine (TST) generating energy from the ocean. This efficiency is achieved by making several simplifying assumptions; an unintended consequence of these assumptions is the omission of some phenomena that can significantly alter the performance and loads of a TST. We can ameliorate this by incorporating suitable corrections into a BEMT model, which allow us to account for some of the effects of these phenomena. This paper examines the implementation of corrections in an established BEMT solver for two such phenomena: tip/hub losses and high induction conditions.