Abstract: This paper describes the integration of a Linear Wave Energy Generator based on a switched reluctance machine (LSRM) into a wave energy point absorber and the laboratory tests of the electrical machine. The use of electrical linear generator as direct drive power take-off (PTO) in wave energy converters (WEC) means several advantages such as high efficiency in a wide range of loads and higher control versatility. The lab testing schema does not use external hydraulic or pneumatic actuators but split the coils of the LSRM in two parts (two sub-machines) controlling them by means of two power electronics converters. This configuration permits to test the nominal power, force and velocity of the LSRM. Moreover, the control of one sub-machine acting as WEC emulator and the other as the proper generator permits to test and to compare different strategies of wave energy capture, beside test the LSRM in ocean realistic conditions, such as irregular waves.
