Comparison of RANS CFD and lower-order aerodynamic models for 3D vertical axis wind turbines

P. L. Delafin, T. Nishino, L. Wang, A. Kolios, T. Bird

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference proceedingpeer-review

2 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Aerodynamic models widely used for Vertical Axis Wind Turbine design (Double Multiple Streamtube and Vortex models) are compared with more time consuming Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations as well as with existing experimental data. Comparisons are made for the performance of the Sandia National Laboratories 17m Darrieus turbine, particularly its power, instantaneous torque and (only for the aerodynamic models and CFD) thrust force. The aim of the study is to assess the validity of each method. It is shown that the Double Multiple Streamtube model tends to overestimate torque amplitude and averaged power while RANS CFD gives fairly good predictions at all tip speed ratios tested. It is also shown that the vortex model provides intermediate results between the Double Multiple Streamtube model and CFD simulations.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationEuropean Wind Energy Association Annual Conference and Exhibition 2015, EWEA 2015 - Scientific Proceedings
PublisherEuropean Wind Energy Association
ISBN (Electronic)9782930670003
Publication statusPublished - 2015
Externally publishedYes
EventEuropean Wind Energy Association Annual Conference and Exhibition 2015 - Paris, France
Duration: 17 Nov 201520 Nov 2015

Conference

ConferenceEuropean Wind Energy Association Annual Conference and Exhibition 2015
Abbreviated titleEWEA 2015
Country/TerritoryFrance
CityParis
Period17/11/1520/11/15

Keywords

  • CFD
  • DMST
  • Instantaneous torque
  • Thrust
  • Vertical Axis Wind Turbine
  • Vortex model

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Energy Engineering and Power Technology
  • Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
  • Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law

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