Analysis and optimization of a vertical axis wind turbine savonius-type panel using computational fluid dynamics techniques

Abstract

The aim of this study is to analyze and optimize a vertical axis Savonius-type wind turbine using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The study is developed in two parts. In the first part of the study, an analysis of the main design parameters is made using semi-empirical models. The second part of the study is focused on the CFD simulations using Ansys CFX. First of all, steady state simulations have been made in order to ensure a reliable model to predict the Savonius behavior. After steady state, transient state simulations have been calculated to obtain not only the Coefficient of Power (Cp) curves but also the setting time at different wind speeds and using different materials. The transient state simulations have been implemented using a subroutine that calculates the torque produced by the turbine in each time step. Finally, Using the steady state simulations it has been possible to study the interaction of 4 Savonius situated in a row for different angular positions of each turbine.