Streamwise vortex generator for separation reduction on wind turbine rotors

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe numerical investigations focused on the reduction of separation and the aerodynamic enhancement of wind turbine blades by a rod vortex generator (RVG).Design/methodology/approachA flow modelling approach through the use of a Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes solver is used. The numerical tools are validated with experimental data for the NREL Phase VI rotor and the S809 aerofoil. The effect of rod vortex generator’s (RVG) configuration on aerofoil aerodynamic performance, flow structure and separation is analysed. RVGs’ chordwise locations and spanwise distance are considered, and the optimum configuration of the RVG is applied to the wind turbine rotor.FindingsResults show that streamwise vortices created by RVGs lead to modification of flow structure in boundary layer. As a result, the implementation of RVGs on aerofoil has proven to decrease the flow separation and enhance the aerodynamic performance of aerofoils. The effect on flow structure and aerodynamic performance has shown to be dependent on dimensions, chordwise location and spanwise distribution of rods. The implementation of devices with the optimum configuration has shown to increase aerodynamic performance and to significantly reduce separation for selected conditions. Application of rods to the wind turbine rotor has proven to avoid the spanwise penetration of flow separation where applied, leading to reduction of flow separation and to aerodynamic enhancement.Originality/valueThe proposed RVGs have shown potential to enhance the aerodynamic performance of wind turbine rotors and profiles, making devices an alternative solution to the classical vortex generators for wind turbine applications.