Abstract
In the present study, the implementation of multi-blade profiles in a Savonius rotor was evaluated in order to increase the pressure in the blade’s intrados and, thus, decrease motion resistance. The geometric proportions of the secondary element were determined, which maximized the rotor’s performance. For this, the response surface methodology was used through a full factorial experimental design and a face-centered central composite design, consisting of three factors, each with three levels. The response variable that was sought to be maximized was the power coefficient (CP), which was obtained through the numerical simulation of the geometric configurations resulting from the different treatments. All geometries were studied under the same parameters and computational fluid dynamics models through the ANSYS Fluent software. The results obtained through both experimental designs showed a difference of only 1.06% in the performance estimates using the regression model and 3.41% when simulating the optimal proportions geometries. The optimized geometry was characterized by a CP of 0.2948, which constitutes an increase of 10.8% in its performance compared to the profile without secondary elements and of 51.2% compared to the conventional semicircular profile. The numerical results were contrasted with experimental data obtained using a wind tunnel, revealing a good degree of fit.
Highlights
The operating principle of the Savonius type rotor is based mainly on the aerodynamic drag force, which attributes a high initial torque and allows it to operate at low flow velocities without the need for assistive devices to get into motion [5,6,7,8]
For each one of the two experimental designs, a second-order multiple regression model is fitted with interactions [29]
Rotors with the conventional semicircular profile and the split Bach type without secondary elements are analyzed under the same conditions
Summary
The operating principle of the Savonius type rotor is based mainly on the aerodynamic drag force, which attributes a high initial torque and allows it to operate at low flow velocities without the need for assistive devices to get into motion [5,6,7,8]. A widely adopted strategy is the implementation of deflector surfaces located on the periphery of the rotor, which prevents the direct action of the fluid on the blades in their return, and in some cases can divert that flow towards the power generating blades [10,11,12,13,14] This type of mounting can affect the omnidirectional characteristic of the rotor as the baffles remain fixed or require orientation [15]
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