Improving Aerodynamic Performance of Wind Turbine by Adding Vortex Generators on the Blade Surface - A Case of Adama II Wind Turbine

Abstract

Wind energy stands as the fastest-growing renewable energy source today, crucial for combating climate change and achieving sustainability goals. Enhancing the efficiency of wind turbines is pivotal in maximizing energy capture. Conventionally, wind turbine blade roots employ thick airfoils to ensure structural integrity, albeit at the cost of increased drag and power loss during operation (Walelu, 2006). To mitigate this, vortex generators (VGs), small devices strategically placed at the onset of stall, are being studied intensively. VGs serve as passive flow control devices, influencing the flow field near the turbine blade's suction surface. This research employs computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to investigate how the design and arrangement of VGs impact the aerodynamic performance of multi-megawatt wind turbine blades. By simulating Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) steady-flow conditions and K-ω SST turbulence model, the study captures and analyzes the separated and vortex-induced flow behaviors on the blade surface equipped with VGs. The aerodynamic performance of the designed blade is examined using Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) analysis; due to its ability to capture flow separation and accuracy, the K-ω SST turbulence model transient model is preferred and implemented using ANSYS-FLUENT. Several vortex generator configurations were added on both the pressure and suction side of the blade surface and their corresponding effect on the aerodynamic performance is studied. The primary objective in Adama-II Wind is to optimize the VG layout to minimize drag and maximize energy capture efficiency. This entails a detailed comparison and development of CFD models and simulations using tools like Simulink, aiming to refine the understanding of VG- induced aerodynamics and their practical application in wind turbine design. According to the findings of these investigations, the Adama II wind farm, with mean annual wind power densities between 634.6 w/m2 and 462 w/m2.Ultimately, these advancements of adding VG on blade surface promise to enhance the lift-to-drag ratio, overall performance and economic viability of wind energy systems, contributing significantly to their continued growth and adoption worldwide.