Numerical Simulation Study on Effect of Deflectors on Aerodynamic Characteristics of Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines

ObjectivesDeflectors can modify flow distribution within wind farms, and their integration into existing wind farms is an effective method for improving wind energy capture by wind turbines. To quantify the effect of deflectors, various operating conditions of deflectors are established to obtain the velocity distribution within the wind field and the wind turbine output power under different conditions.MethodsA three-level orthogonal combination of three factors of deflector inclination angle, length, and distance between the deflector and the wind turbine is conducted. Numerical simulations based on the Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) method are performed to maximize the power output of the wind turbine.ResultsDifferent deflector inclination angles, lengths, and distances between the deflector and the wind turbine have varying degrees of effect on inflow wind velocity and wind turbine output power. Among these influencing factors, the inclination angle has the most significant effect on the inflow wind velocity and output power of the wind turbine, followed by the deflector length, and finally the distance between the deflector and the wind turbine.ConclusionsThe findings provide valuable guidance for improving wind turbine power output and optimizing the design and application of deflectors in wind energy utilization.