Horizontal Axis Wind Turbine Blade Design for the Urban Areas in Puerto Rico

Abstract

Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines are the preferred and most common method for power extraction from wind. In this study, the researcher will test three different airfoils to design a blade that optimizes wind energy generation, given the specific challenges that the Puerto Rican urban landscapes present. The researcher will use Blade Element Momentum Theory to analyze the performance of each of the airfoils given the specific variables present and choose a design that maximizes the power output of the wind turbine. The researcher will focus on the aerodynamic aspect of the design, focusing on the optimal geometry for generation. The SD7062 was found to be the optimal airfoil to be the optimal profile with an estimated power of approximately 700 W at the designated parameters. Key Terms⎯ Airfoil, Blade Element Momentum Theory, Power Coefficient, and Tip Speed Ratio.