Low reynolds number airfoil optimization for wind turbine applications using genetic algorithm

Ram, Krishnil R. and Lal, Sunil P. and Ahmed, Mohammed R. (2013) Low reynolds number airfoil optimization for wind turbine applications using genetic algorithm. Journal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy, 5 (052007). pp. 1-15. ISSN 1941-7012

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Abstract

Optimization of a low Reynolds number airfoil for use in small wind turbines is carried out using a Genetic Algorithm (GA) optimization technique. With the aim of creating a roughness insensitive airfoil for the tip region of turbine blades, a multi-objective genetic algorithm code is developed. A review of existing parameterization and optimization methods are presented along with the strategies applied to optimize the airfoil in this study. A composite Bezier curve is used to parameterize the airfoil. The resulting airfoil, the USPT2 has a maximum thickness of 10% and shows insensitivity to roughness at the optimized angles and at other angles of attack as well. The characteristics of USPT2 are studies by comparing it against the popular SG6043 airfoil. While a slight loss in lift is noticed for both airfoils, the drag increments due to early transition are noticeable as well. The airfoil is also studied using CFD and wind tunnel experiments during free and forced transition. The USPT2 airfoil will be useful in small wind turbines for locations where blade soiling is likely or where other flow phenomena may cause early transition of the boundary layer.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Additional Information:	Published online only so no Print ISSN available
Subjects:	T Technology > TJ Mechanical engineering and machinery
Divisions:	Faculty of Science, Technology and Environment (FSTE) > School of Computing, Information and Mathematical Sciences Faculty of Science, Technology and Environment (FSTE) > School of Engineering and Physics
Depositing User:	M. Rafiuddin Ahmed
Date Deposited:	24 Mar 2014 01:02
Last Modified:	15 Sep 2016 22:36
URI:	https://repository.usp.ac.fj/id/eprint/7246

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