Validation of the numerical simulations of flow around a scaled-down turbine using experimental data from wind tunnel

Abstract

Aerodynamic characteristic of a small scale wind turbine under the influence of an incoming uniform wind field is studied using k-ω Shear Stress Transport turbulence model. Firstly, the lift and drag characteristics of the blade section consisting of S826 airfoil is studied using 2D simulations at a Reynolds number of 1×105 . After that, the full turbine including the rotational effects of the blade is simulated using Multiple Reference Frames (MRF) and Sliding Mesh Interface (SMI) numerical techniques. The differences between the two techniques are quantified. It is then followed by a detailed comparison of the turbine's power/thrust output and the associated wake development at three tip speeds ratios (λ = 3, 6, 10). The phenomenon of blockage effect and spatial features of the flow are explained and linked to the turbines power output. Validation of wake profiles patterns at multiple locations downstream is also performed at each λ. The present work aims to evaluate the potential of the numerical methods in reproducing wind tunnel experimental results such that the method can be applied to full-scale turbines operating under realistic conditions in which observation data is scarce or lacking.