Investigation of the Feasibility of Creating an Atmospheric Boundary Layer in a Small Wind Tunnel

Growing focus on renewable energy prompted the Center for Hydro- and Aerodynamics (CHA) to modernize a small wind tunnel with an open test section. This study builds on prior work confirming the feasibility of modifying the test section geometry without disturbing flow velocity. The objective is to explore modeling the atmospheric boundary layer in the new test section. Using theoretical calculations with empirical formulas, followed by CFD simulations, the airflow parameters were optimized. The study graphically presents velocity fields, gradient distributions, and vectors. This modernization enhances potential for experimental research in wind energy, uniquely combining theoretical and CFD approaches to refine geometry and boundary layer development in the test section. Final results confirm the effectiveness of the method for modeling the atmospheric boundary layer in a short test section.