Wave energy convertors (WECs), such as the Oscilla Triton-C, depend on flexible, polymeric connecting mooring lines, ropes, or tendons, for their energy harvesting mechanism. Operational stresses, such as abrasion, can limit the fatigue life of tendons, leading to early or unexpected failure. Installation, operation, and maintenance (IO&M) costs could be reduced with incorporation of sensing features that indicate tendon degradation to extend inspection intervals and provide forewarning of impending failure. In this work, we demonstrate preliminary abrasion sensing capability of polymer tendons and evaluate opportunities for online monitoring of these and similar polymer ropes used in waterpower technologies.
