| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300638 | Renewable Energy | 2013 | 9 Pages |
The Savonius vertical axis wind turbine is simple in structure, has good starting characteristics, relatively low operating speeds, and an ability to accept wind from any direction, although it has a lower efficiency than some other vertical axis wind turbines. So far a number of experimental investigations have been carried out to study the performance of the Savonius rotor; however, there is a lack of detailed descriptions of the flow field for different types of Savonius rotors. The aim of this paper is to numerically explore the non-linear two-dimensional unsteady flow over a conventional Savonius-type rotor and a Bach-type rotor, and develop a simulation method for predicting their aerodynamic performance. The simulations are performed using Star-CCM+. The motion of the blades is solved by using a moving mesh. A comparative study of the two types of rotors was carried out, and numerical simulation results were compared with experimental data. The Bach-type rotor is demonstrated to have better performance for torque and power coefficient than the conventional Savonius-type rotor. A discussion of the causes of these differences is presented that is based on a detailed study of the respective flow field characteristics, including the behavior of moment coefficients, velocity vectors and pressure distribution. A simulation method for further study of new blades shapes is suggested.
► We explore the non-linear two-dimensional unsteady potential flow over a Savonius rotor. ► A simulation method for predicting the aerodynamic performance of the Savonius rotor has been developed. ► A comparative study of the conventional Savonius-type rotor versus the Bach-type rotor was carried out. ► Pressure distribution and detailed velocity fields were analyzed, respectively. ► We were able to shed additional light on the flow physics of power generation Savonius turbines.
