Experimental Investigation of the Horizontal Axis Wind Turbine with NACA4418 Blade Length

Abstract

Wind energy is a clean valuable source of renewable electricity when used with specific characteristically turbines because of its inexhaustibility as well as abating the use of fossil fuels. However, studies are still needed to design wind turbines with better performance. Therefore, this study aims to analyse the effect of blade length on the shaft rotation of a small-scale HAWT (horizontal axis wind turbine). A small-scale HAWT with the NACA4418 blade length of 1.25, 1.50, and 1.75 m was tested using three different blades (3, 4, and 5 blades) at speeds between 3 and 8 m/s without generating load. The lengths affected the tip speed ratio in this condition, considering various counts. The results showed that the rotor stability of a 1.25 m blade length was better than others at 4-6 m/s, based on the produced TSR value. The CP of the wind turbine also began to change significantly at 5 m/s, with the five-blade system of 1.25 m having the best rotation at medium speeds compared to others at 1.50 and 1.75 m. The correct number of blade lengths is essential for optimal and efficient overall turbine performance.

Keywords

• wind energy
• horizontal wind turbines
• blade length
• shaft rotation