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Energy conversion dynamics in horizontal-axis turbines: From coherent turbulence to torque response

Author

Listed:
  • Silva, R.N.
  • Fantini, D.G.
  • Mendes, R.C.F.
  • Brasil, A.C.P.
  • Oliveira, T.F.

Abstract

This study investigates how coherent turbulent structures affect the mechanical torque produced by horizontal axis turbines in environments with high turbulence intensity. Wind tunnel experiments were conducted using an upstream cylinder to introduce well-characterized turbulence. Torque and velocity data were analyzed in the time, frequency, and time-frequency domains to examine the interaction between the incoming turbulence and the dynamic response of the turbine. The results show that when the dominant frequencies of the turbulent eddies are close to the rotational frequency of the turbine, the average mechanical torque increases substantially. A notable change in the spectral density of torque power is observed, with its decay slope shifting from −5/3 in uniform inflow to −11/3 under coherent turbulence, indicating a more efficient transfer of turbulent kinetic energy to mechanical power. The turbine acts as a low-pass filter and a selective amplifier, enhancing energy capture when the incoming turbulent energy is concentrated within a critical frequency band ranging from three quarters to one and a half times the turbine rotational frequency. Time-frequency analysis using the wavelet transform reveals that this energy is delivered in discrete packets, which the turbine absorbs more effectively when their frequency content aligns with its rotation.

Suggested Citation

  • Silva, R.N. & Fantini, D.G. & Mendes, R.C.F. & Brasil, A.C.P. & Oliveira, T.F., 2026. "Energy conversion dynamics in horizontal-axis turbines: From coherent turbulence to torque response," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 259(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:259:y:2026:i:c:s0960148125027594
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2025.125095
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    References listed on IDEAS

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