Demand factor definition—A dimensionless parameter for Vertical Axis Wind Turbines

Abstract

The use of dimensionless numbers like Reynolds Number, Froude Number and Webber Number has historically simplified the process of comparison of phenomena irrespective of their scales and in their classification into different categories. This paper deals with the derivational aspects of a dimensionless parameter named “Demand Factor” for optimization of Vertical Axis Wind Turbine (VAWT).•The input parameters considered in this derivation are power, wind velocity, the aspect ratio of the turbine, density of air and viscosity of air and the output parameters are length of the blade, number of blades, chord length, aerofoil shape, radius of the turbine and angular velocity at rated speed.•Four rounds of variable definition trials are carried out through the arrangement of the input parameters on the numerator and denominator positions. With the filtering out of unsuitable combinations at different stages of elimination, out of 32 combinations the expression that holds the potential to represent demand factor was identified. The process of carrying out single point optimization based on Demand factor expression is discussed along with the steps involved in numerically calculating output parameters.•The expression of Demand factor developed provides a different perspective on the process of design and optimization of VAWTs.