Darrieus Wind Turbines With Twisted Blades

Abstract

Darrieus wind turbines are lift-type vertical axis wind turbines. They have merits of simple structure and construction, easy installation and maintenance. Darrieus wind turbines can capture wind from any direction and convert it into electric power. They do not need any yaw mechanism to adjust their orientations in order to make their rotors face wind direction. Because of their lift-type, the power conversion efficiency is relatively high compared with drag-type vertical axis wind turbines like Savonius wind turbines. Although the merits of Darrieus wind turbines are remarkable, they also have their demerits. Compared with other types of vertical axis wind turbines, Darrieus wind turbines have relatively low static torque that weakens their self-starting capability. This research is motivated by surmounting the disadvantages facing Darrieus wind turbines. The research objective is focused on improving Darrieus wind turbines’ static and dynamic performance. In this research, Darrieus wind turbines with different blade shapes and numbers are simulated. The effects of the design parameters on the performance of Darrieus wind turbines are analyzed. Darrieus wind turbines are designed based on their geometric parameters to improve their performance. The results from this research will help the development and promotion of Darrieus wind turbines.