Validating the SSMD1 Multi-Degradation Test Rig for Offshore Material Qualification

As part of the MORE project, NTNU master's student Guri Sollien Hulbak has successfully validated the functionality of the newly developed Small-Scale Multi-Degradation test rig 1 (SSMD1). The rig is designed to simulate the harsh offshore environment experienced by wave energy converters by combining sliding wear, corrosion, and cyclic mechanical loading.

The thesis work, supervised by Prof. Nuria Espallargas and Wahyu Wijanarko, focused on optimizing the rig’s mechanical stability and test parameters using stainless steel 316L. After resolving early mechanical challenges by upgrading key components from PEEK to stainless steel, the SSMD 1 delivered repeatable and reliable results across a range of loading conditions. The study also identified how cathode-to-anode ratios influence the multi-degradation response of the materials tested, contributing valuable insights for future test configurations. This validation confirms SSMD1 as a robust tool for research and material qualification in offshore renewable applications.

The SSMD 1 test rig setup during testing. Image courtesy of Guri Sollien Hulbak /NTNU.

We are excited to build on this work and continue advancing multi-degradation testing within the MORE project as we support the development of reliable offshore renewable energy technologies.