Development of darrieus-type vertical axis wind turbine for Stand-alone applications

Abstract

A theoretical model for the design and performance simulation of Darrieus-type vertical axis stand alone wind turbine for small scale energy applications was developed. The model is based on application of momentum theory and blade element theory to multiple stream-tubes. Software was developed to solve the resulting nonlinear equations for the flow-field. Results were used to analyze the effects of blade profile, rotor solidity, Reynolds number and aspect ratio on the maximum power and torque coefficients, optimum tip speed ratio, and ability to self start, which lead to design of optimum rotor configurations.