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Modeling of self and mutual inductions between front and rear rotors of coaxial counter-rotating wind turbines

Author

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  • Chen, Jiajia
  • Shen, Xin
  • Li, Xinkai
  • Ye, Zhaoliang
  • Guo, Xiaojiang

Abstract

With the potential of enhancing power output, a holistic understanding of aerodynamic characteristics of counter-rotating wind turbines (CRWT) is crucial. However, unsteady aerodynamic loads are barely discussed in existing research which is important to large CRWT with restrained axial distance. To investigate the rotor-rotor interactions between front rotor (FR) and rear rotor (RR), the current work presents a time-marching aerodynamic model with lifting surface model and free wake model (LSFWM). CRWT increases power output by 32.1 % than traditional single-rotor wind turbines (SRWT). Blade tips of RR experience severe load fluctuations. In addition, taking advantage of vortex method, self and mutual induction factors on both rotors are separated according to the origin of vorticity modeled by LSFWM and can provide unique perspectives of aerodynamic rotor-rotor interactions. Self-inductions of both rotors follow the features of SRWT. Mutual induction of FR shows the blockage effect. Mutual induction of RR causes severe load fluctuations by FR tip vortex encountering RR blades. CRWT under various rotation speeds, axial distances between the rotors and diameter ratios are investigated. Results implied CRWT with slightly larger FR and smaller RR and axial distance wider than 20 % diameter enjoy considerable power enhancement and restrained load fluctuations.

Suggested Citation

  • Chen, Jiajia & Shen, Xin & Li, Xinkai & Ye, Zhaoliang & Guo, Xiaojiang, 2026. "Modeling of self and mutual inductions between front and rear rotors of coaxial counter-rotating wind turbines," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 257(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:257:y:2026:i:c:s0960148125023584
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2025.124694
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    References listed on IDEAS

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