Vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs) feature a main rotor shaft oriented perpendicular to both the ground and the wind flow. This unique vertical configuration allows the turbine to capture wind kinetic energy from any direction, eliminating the need for complex yaw mechanisms or wind direction sensors. Consequently, VAWTs offer reduced mechanical complexity and lower maintenance requirements, making them ideal for turbulent urban environments where wind direction shifts rapidly.

Project Highlights:

• Evaluation of complex flow field around the turbine at low and high wind speeds, using CFD.
• Advanced turbulence modeling and moving mesh approach to accurately simulate the aerodynamic interactions of the rotating blades.
• Proprietary software to map the pressure distribution from CFD analysis onto the structural model.
• Power output and torque calculations, and power curve generation for varying wind velocities.
• Identification of maximum sail load and toppling moment conditions.
• Fatigue life estimation for all turbine parts.