Design and optimization of blades of a small-scale H-rotor darrieus-type vawt using Q-blade

Abstract

The rapid increase in energy demand, depleting fossil fuel reserves, global warming, and the lack of energy security has paved the way for using renewable energy sources globally. Wind being easily available and abundant in the surrounding is an excellent alternative energy source to conventional energy sources. Wind turbines, specifically Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines (HAWTs) and Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs), offer alternative solutions to conventional energy generation. This research focuses on the aerodynamic principles associated with H- Type VAWTs, which possess omni-directional characteristics, making them particularly suitable for urban areas. Q-Blade software was used which uses the Double Multiple Streamtube Model (DMST) for VAWT analysis. This approach yields reasonable results while bypassing the need for computationally intensive Viscous Based Methods. The study examines the turbine's behavior and performance with different aspect ratios, taper ratios, aerofoils, and turbine solidities. Optimum Tip Speed Ratio and the effect of the Pitch Angle are further investigated using Q- Blade. This paper presents a comprehensive outline of the necessary steps involved in designing and optimizing the blades of a small-scale H-Rotor Darrieus-Type VAWT, specifically tailored for commercial buildings, with a power output of 200W. Additionally, the advantages and features of the Q-Blade software are highlighted.