Optimized H-Shaped VAWT for Tilted Operation: Computational Fluid Dynamics Evaluation of Design and Off-Design Conditions

Abstract In the present work, a numerical investigation on the performance of an optimized H-shaped vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT), previously presented at the ASME Turbo Expo, is provided both at design and high load condition, with the wind rotor operating at 20 deg of tilted angle (the static tilt angle of VAWTs commonly ranges between 10 deg and 20 deg). Unsteady computational fluid dynamics simulations have been adopted to explore the aerodynamics and near-wake characteristics of the selected machine, designed for operation in tilted conditions, typical of spar-buoy platforms. Combined effect of blade coning angle and flow skew angle is discussed with respect to the local performance to shed light on the effectiveness of energy harvesting pertaining to different machine portions. The analysis has been conducted over a large-scale model to estimate the wind rotor performance under possible, more feasible, conditions. The findings contribute with valuable insights for the ongoing development of floating-VAWT technology. Offshore wind power is increasingly recognized as a pivotal solution for renewable energy, with wind turbines located far from the coast offering unique advantages. The presented results offer detailed analysis of aerodynamic loads and performance over extended periods, showing good potential for innovative designs.