Title: A new design methodology and performance analysis of a low wind speed turbine

Authors: D.S.P. Preetham Kumar; Selvarasan Iniyan

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, Loyola-ICAM College of Engineering and Technology, Chennai, India ' Institute for Energy Studies, Anna University, Chennai, India

Abstract: A new methodology is initiated to design a wind turbine that can operate efficiently in low wind speed conditions. The scenario explained elaborately in this research paper have the blades designed to offer an efficient solution for low wind speed zones. The different forces and angles at specific locations on the blade are designed, tested and implemented. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is employed to forecast the performance of blades along with the visualisation of velocity; pressure and velocity streamline distribution around the blade when rotated at the proposed rpm. The aerodynamic performance of the blade coincides with the design requirements and is scrutinised for variable wind conditions. A six bladed wind turbine system is used as replacement for the conventional large diameter blades. The computational results indicate that the power output is obtained at 3.4 m/s whereas the experimental power output is obtained at 4.4 m/s.

Keywords: blade; aerodynamic design; low wind speed turbine; performance analysis; computational fluid dynamics; CFD.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMTM.2020.109997

International Journal of Manufacturing Technology and Management, 2020 Vol.34 No.6, pp.540 - 556

Received: 16 Nov 2016
Accepted: 21 Dec 2016

Published online: 01 Oct 2020 *

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