Comparative Numerical Analysis of Flat and Round Tips on Aerodynamic Efficiency and Performance in IEA 10MW Wind Turbine Blades
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Renewable energy, a pivotal component in the global transition towards sustainable practices, encompasses various sources that harness naturally replenishing elements. Among these, wind energy stands out as a prominent and rapidly expanding contributor. Wind turbines, fundamental to the wind energy landscape, convert the kinetic energy of moving air into electricity. Utilizing the aerodynamic principles governing their design, these turbines operate efficiently in diverse environments, ranging from onshore to offshore locations. The scalability of wind power installations, exemplified by the towering turbines seen in wind farms, underscores their potential to meet a substantial portion of the world's energy needs. As an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels, wind turbines mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and contribute significantly to reducing our dependence on non-renewable resources. The continued advancements in technology, coupled with a growing commitment to sustainability, position wind energy as a key player in the global pursuit of a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. This study presents a comprehensive numerical analysis to evaluate the aerodynamic performance of the International Energy Agency (IEA) 10MW [1] wind turbine, focusing on the impact of blade tip design. Specifically, it compares the aerodynamic effects, load characteristics between flat and round tipped blades. Utilizing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), a three dimensional numerical analysis has been carried out using OpenFOAM with the volume mesh generated [2]. The research investigates the flow dynamics around the blades under various operational conditions, including different wind speeds and angles of attack. The IEA 10MW reference wind turbine, a large-scale, offshore model, offers an ideal platform for assessing advanced blade designs due to its significant energy output and the critical role of aerodynamic effects at such scales. Two sets of blade designs were discussed: one with simple flat tips and another with smooth round tips. Including round tips is significant for potentially reducing tip vortex strength, improving aerodynamic efficiency, enhancing load distribution, and mitigating noise generation.