Numerical investigation of the aerodynamic performance of dual vertical axis wind turbines

The present study examines the aerodynamic performance of a three-bladed Vertical Axis Wind Turbine (VAWT) utilizing various airfoils across a range of tip speed ratios. A comprehensive three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics analysis is conducted to evaluate both single and dual-turbine configurations. The dual-turbine analysis focuses on aerodynamic interactions and wake effects arising from varying turbine gap ratios. The computational domain is carefully constructed, featuring a high-quality mesh: a rotating structured mesh around the blades and a block-structured background domain. Model validation is achieved through comparison with experimental data, demonstrating strong agreement and thereby confirming the simulation’s accuracy. Key factors such as airfoil geometry, rotational speed, and turbine spacing are systematically analyzed. Results show that the NACA0018 airfoil outperforms other tested profiles in lift generation and energy conversion efficiency. In dual-turbine setups, optimal spacing significantly enhances performance by promoting favorable flow interactions and minimizing wake losses. Detailed assessments of pressure distribution, turbulence kinetic energy, and velocity fields provide insight into flow behavior and aerodynamic efficiency. The study offers practical implications for the design and arrangement of VAWTs in wind farms, emphasizing the role of airfoil geometry and turbine layout in maximizing energy production.