The influence of flow field and aerodynamic forces on a straight-bladed vertical axis wind turbine. (15th September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Li, Qing'an; Maeda, Takao; Kamada, Yasunari; Murata, Junsuke; Furukawa, Kazuma; Yamamoto, Masayuki
• Is Part Of: Energy. Volume 111(2016)
• Page Start: 260
• Page End: 271
• Publication Date: 2016-09-15
• Subjects: Straight-bladed vertical axis wind turbine -- Flow field -- Aerodynamic forces -- Laser Doppler Velocimeter (LDV) -- Pressure distribution; Power resources -- Periodicals; Power (Mechanics) -- Periodicals; Energy consumption -- Periodicals; 333.7905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2016.05.129
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-5442

Abstract

Abstract: This paper has attempted to compile the assessment of flow field and aerodynamic forces acting on a small straight-bladed vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT). Two dimensional unsteady flows around the VAWT, operating at three different tip speed ratios in a wind tunnel, were investigated through the use of a Laser Doppler Velocimeter (LDV) system. Furthermore, in order to explicate the characteristics of aerodynamic forces, pressures acting on the blade surface were measured during the rotation by a multiport scanner mounted on the hub and pressure signals were transmitted to the stationary system through a wireless LAN. Velocity distribution proved the wind velocity deficit. While, the geometrical angle of attack and resultant flow velocity change periodically due to local wind velocity and direction depending on the azimuth angle. The power coefficient, tangential force, lift and drag which are obtained by pressure distribution are discussed as a function of blade azimuthally position, achieving a numerical quantification of the influence of tip speed ratio on overall rotor performance. As a result, it is clarified that aerodynamic forces show the maximum values when the blade passes through the upstream region. Highlights: Wind velocity in flow field is measured by LDV system in wind tunnel experiments. Pressures acting on the blade surface are measured by multiport pressure device. Relative flow velocity and angle of attack are calculated by local wind velocity. Aerodynamic forces show the maximum values at the upstream region.