Performance Analysis of Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs) Using Dynamic Mesh Approach: A CFD Validation Study

Abstract

Vertical-axis wind turbines (VAWTs) offer a promising solution for generating electricity from wind energy, particularly at low wind speeds. Enhancing the design, structure, and material properties of VAWTs can significantly improve their mechanical performance and aerodynamic efficiency. This study aimed to validate a small VAWT design optimized for low wind speeds using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis. The primary focus was to confirm the simulation results against experimental data from an existing Savonius 2-blade wind turbine operating in the 6–12 m/s speed range. The results demonstrated a high level of consistency between simulation and experimental data, with an error margin of 20%. Higher wind speeds led to increased torque, with a decrease at very high speeds due to operational range limitations. The successful validation of the simulation results instils confidence in the study's findings. Additionally, a tree-shaped turbine using a dynamic mesh (6DOF) model showed similar torque patterns, with high wind speeds correlating to high torque values. The validation study primarily observed the flow characteristics around a single turbine. Future work will apply these observations to a cluster of turbines to determine optimal conditions for maximizing power output, aiming for significant advancements in wind energy technology.