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Large eddy simulation of a small horizontal axis wind turbine near a low-rise large-span structure

Author

Listed:
  • Liu, Tingting
  • Mi, Hanning
  • Wen, Jiahao
  • Zhang, Hongfu
  • Zhou, Daocheng

Abstract

The urgent need for clean energy in urban areas highlights the importance of small horizontal axis wind turbines (SHAWTs) as a viable solution. It is critical to study the aerodynamic characteristics of SHAWTs near low-rise large-span structures because these buildings can significantly impact the turbines' electricity generation efficiency. Therefore, the influence of SHAWT's position, height difference (ΔH), and distance (X/D) to the blunt structure was investigated via large eddy simulation. Moreover, flow structure modes were observed using the high-order dynamic mode decomposition method, unveiling the wake flow interaction principle. The results show that positioning the rotor on the windward side of the blunt structure (X/D = 1.0, ΔH≥1.31) maximizes the power efficiency by 20 % without significantly deteriorating the aerodynamic performance. Due to the flow acceleration region at the leading edge of the blunt structure, the core of the rotor wake is deflected upwards and the wake recovery is accelerated. Turbulence mixing near the blunt structure notably shortens the tip vortex lifespan, reducing high-frequency fluctuations. On the leeward side, increased turbulence and vortex shedding elevate rotor torque fluctuations, potentially inducing vibration and fatigue.

Suggested Citation

  • Liu, Tingting & Mi, Hanning & Wen, Jiahao & Zhang, Hongfu & Zhou, Daocheng, 2025. "Large eddy simulation of a small horizontal axis wind turbine near a low-rise large-span structure," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 245(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:245:y:2025:i:c:s096014812500374x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2025.122712
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    References listed on IDEAS

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