Evaluation of a Savonius vertical axis wind turbine using computational fluid dynamics simulation

Abstract

This study evaluates the aerodynamic performance of a Savonius-type vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation for application in low-wind-speed urban environments, such as the city of Lima. The research is divided into three phases: first, a three-dimensional model of the turbine is developed in Autodesk Inventor Professional software with rotor diameter and height dimensions of 0,37 m; second, a numerical model is established based on the literature; and third, the impact of a straight-blade configuration is comparatively analyzed against a helical-blade configuration. The finite volume method is used for the numerical model, and two domains are discretized: first, the cylindrical region that rotates along with the turbine geometry, and second, the stationary rectangular prismatic region, both with a mesh of tetrahedral and prismatic elements. The k-ε turbulence model and the sliding mesh technique combined with 6DOF are used to capture the transient flow behavior. Air speeds of 3 m/s, 4 m/s, and 5 m/s were simulated. The results allow for quantifying the improvement in the power coefficient (Cp) and torque coefficient (Cts) of the modified geometry. This work provides a technical basis for the design of microgeneration technologies adapted to local climatic conditions of high turbulence and low kinetic energy.