10.1007/s40095-014-0129-x

Design of a vertical-axis wind turbine: how the aspect ratio affects the turbine’s performance

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  • S. Brusca1,
  • R. Lanzafame2,
  • M. Messina*2,
  1. Department of Electronic Engineering, Chemical and Industrial Engineering, University of Messina, Messina, 98166, IT
  2. Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Catania, Catania, 95125, IT
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Published in Issue 2014-08-02

How to Cite

Brusca, S., Lanzafame, R., & Messina, M. (2014). Design of a vertical-axis wind turbine: how the aspect ratio affects the turbine’s performance. International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering, 5(4 (December 2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40095-014-0129-x
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Abstract

Abstract This work analyses the link between the aspect ratio of a vertical-axis straight-bladed (H-Rotor) wind turbine and its performance (power coefficient). The aspect ratio of this particular wind turbine is defined as the ratio between blade length and rotor radius. Since the aspect ratio variations of a vertical-axis wind turbine cause Reynolds number variations, any changes in the power coefficient can also be studied to derive how aspect ratio variations affect turbine performance. Using a calculation code based on the Multiple Stream Tube Model, symmetrical straight-bladed wind turbine performance was evaluated as aspect ratio varied. This numerical analysis highlighted how turbine performance is strongly influenced by the Reynolds number of the rotor blade. From a geometrical point of view, as aspect ratio falls, the Reynolds number rises which improves wind turbine performance.

Keywords

  • VAWT,
  • MSTM,
  • H-Rotor,
  • Reynolds number,
  • Aspect ratio
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