Fast Track Integration of Computational Methods with Experiments in Small Wind Turbine Development

Abstract

In general, standard aerodynamic design is divided into two paths—numerical analysis and empirical tests. It is crucial to efficiently combine both approaches in order to entirely fulfill the requirements of the design process as well as the final product. An effective use of computational analysis is a challenge, however it can significantly improve understanding, exploring and confining the search for optimal product solutions. The article focuses on a rapid prototyping and testing procedure proposed and employed at the Institute of Turbomachinery, Lodz University of Technology (IMP TUL). This so called Fast Track approach combines preparation of numerical models of a wind turbine rotor, manufacturing of its geometry by means of a 3D printing method and testing it in an in-house wind tunnel. The idea is to perform the entire procedure in 24 h. The proposed process allows one to determine the most auspicious sets of rotor blades within a short time. Owing to this, it significantly reduces the amount of individual subsequent examinations. Having fixed the initial procedure, it is possible to expand research on the singled-out geometries. The abovementioned observations and the presented overview of the literature on uses of 3D printing in aerodynamic testing prove rapid prototyping as an innovative and widely-applicable method, significantly changing our approach to experimental aerodynamics.

Influence of the Solidity Ratio on the Small Wind Turbine Aerodynamics

“…During the tests, the hub was additionally co1vered with a dome casing, which was also 3D printed. Utilization of 3D printing technology in wind tunnel testing allows to significantly reduce time required for model manufacturing [10].…”

Fluid–Structure Interaction Numerical Analysis of a Small, Urban Wind Turbine Blade

“…SWTs, studied at Institute of Turbomachinery of Lodz University of Technology, incorporate both experimental [16] and numerical [17] research. The increasing use of new manufacturing technologies in SWT studies and prototype manufacturing [18] makes it essential to ensure rotor blade integrity and safe operation. In the current article, the authors summarize the outcomes of a one-way FSI case study of a Generative Urban Small Turbine (GUST) horizontal-axis SWT prototype (see Chapter 2).…”

Assessment of Blade Strength for Small Wind Turbine Applications

“…First, the CAD model of a blade was designed. Later it was printed in the 3D printer using the ABS plastic [9], thus its properties are anisotropic. The anisotropy comes from the fact that the model consists of layers of plastic that were applied in parallel one after the other, thus the blade is not made of an uniform material.…”