Effect of curved geometrical aspects of Savonius rotor on turbine performance using factorial design analysis

Abstract Electricity consumption is expected to increase significantly by 2050. It is essential to ensure that as the increase occurs, there is also a corresponding increase in the proportion of renewable energy sources in the electricity supply. Wind energy has great potential as a promising source of renewable energy. One alternative method for harvesting wind energy is the use of Savonius turbines, which can help expand the collaboration between renewable energy and conventional resources. The critical parts in deploying the Savonius are the consideration of the curved geometrical factor. Thus, this study aims to assess how the geometrical factors of the Savonius turbine affect its performance, and the findings from this research can offer valuable insights for designing an optimal Savonius rotor that aligns with specific requirements. As part of geometrical variations, three different shapes are being modeled and analyzed: one with a phase-shift angle (PSA) of 0°, another with 25°, and a third with 35°. To produce the calculation results, the research employed advanced three-dimensional modeling techniques and the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method, considering steady conditions and the shear stress transport model. A factorial design analysis was then conducted based on the obtained CFD results to validate the significance of the data research results regarding the impact of these factors on performance. Based on the summarized result trends, the type-1 rotor, with a PSA of 25°, exhibits excellent CPmax performance, achieving a value of 0.32. The results of the factorial design approach analysis indicate that the blade shape, tip-speed ratio, and PSA factors have a significant influence on the performance of the Savonius Rotor.