Numerical simulations of wind loading on the floating photovoltaic systems

Abstract

This study analyses the fluid dynamics of wind loadings on the floating photovoltaic (PV) system using computational fluid dynamics. The two representative models of pontoon-type and a frame-type with a panel angle of 15° to the ground were investigated. The simulation was performed using the steady solver and incompressible Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes equations with a shear stress transport $$k$$ – $$\omega$$ turbulence model. Inlet condition was 45 m/s steady wind, and outlet condition was set to atmospheric pressure. The results confirmed that wind blowing from the backside of floating PV systems increases drag, lift, and pressure on the first row of the PV panels. The maximum drag and lift coefficient of frame-type PV panels were 0.85 and 0.79, respectively, while that of pontoon-type were 0.81 and 0.65, respectively. The maximum drag and lift coefficient of pontoon-type PV panels with a floating body are 0.29 and 0.25, respectively. Adding the floating body reduced the wind loadings by 70%. Additionally, the blocking back space of the PV panel effectively reduced the maximum drag and lift by 75%, as it prevented the flow impingement.