Aerodynamic design and analysis of horizontal-axis wind turbine blades

Brunel University London, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department, UK

Abstract

Blade design is a fundamental and critical aspect of wind turbine technology. Enhancing the aerodynamic performance of turbine blades remains a key research focus in the field of wind energy. This project, based on the current state of wind power technology in Europe, compares and analyses three different types of horizontal-axis wind turbine blades, with particular emphasis on the function and performance of winglets (or sharklets) installed at the blade tips. The findings indicate that both tapered swept-back blades and elliptical blades can significantly improve the lift-to-drag ratio. Furthermore, incorporating winglets at the blade tips helps to mitigate wingtip vortices, thereby reducing induced drag. Overall, tapered swept-back blades are better suited for widespread commercial application, offering comparable aerodynamic performance to elliptical blades while allowing for a simpler manufacturing process.