An alternative for wind energy conversion using improved Savonius rotor turbine model

Abstract

The current society development is dependent of the planet energy resources and if we take an overview on renewable energies used worldwide it can be said that they are constantly gaining ground. This trend represents an important step forward towards maintaining a clean environment by focusing on capitalizing considerable resources that are sustainable over time, such as solar energy, together with waves and wind force. Regarding the energy production solution based on the atmospheric air masses movements or wind energy, the alternative to the constructive model of horizontal axis turbines (HAWT), currently widely used in wind farms is presented the alternative of using vertical shaft turbines (VAWT) for reduced installed power wind farms. The aspects that form the advantages of these turbines are presented as well as the fact that although they offer a lower power coefficient, they can play an important role for smaller power farms, the investment being at lower values. The basic rotor construction model is based on the SAVONIUS type which has been continuously improved, the results being better in terms of energy performance. A rotor concept that can be used within wind turbines with better performance results compared to SAVONIUS classic model is presented in this paper. The novelty elements consist in the use of a larger number of blades as well as the placing method on the rotor basic circle profile. The numerical analysis results made on virtual rotor model are presented, which highlight the improved values obtained on the analysed model.