Three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics investigation on size effect of small-scale wind turbine blades.

Small-scale wind turbines represent important energy harvesting means thanks to their practicality advantages especially within energy-restricted areas. Despite the preeminent similarities in the core physics that govern the functioning of the small and large wind turbines, each scale has its own distinct operating conditions since numerous variables in the atmospheric boundary layer vary largely as a function of height. This study offers a three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics analysis of a small-scale wind turbine’s size effect on the power output where three rotor diameter sizes 50 cm, 75 cm and 100 cm are investigated and the torque as well as the power output from each case are calculated. The pressure contours are examined, and the velocity field within the computational domain is investigated. Results show that an increase from 1.947 W to 10.506 W corresponds to a 50% increase in the turbine rotor diameter. Whereas 100% increase in the rotor diameter increased the power output to 34.576 W.