Work

Numerical Simulation of Aerodynamic Characteristics of Trailing Edge Flaps for FFA-W3-241 Wind Turbine Airfoil

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The blades of wind turbines constitute key components for converting wind energy into electrical energy, and modifications to blade airfoil geometry can effectively enhance aerodynamic performance of wind turbine. The trailing edge flap enables load control on the blades through adjustments of its motion and geometric parameters, thereby overcoming limitations inherent in conventional pitch control systems. However, current research primarily emphasizes isolated parametric effects on airfoil performance, with limited exploration of interactions between multiple design variables. This study adopts a numerical simulation approach based on the FFA-W3-241 airfoil of the DTU 10 MW. Geometric deformations are achieved by manipulating flap parameters, and the influence on airfoil aerodynamic performance is analyzed using computational fluid dynamics methods. Investigations are conducted into the effects of flap lengths and deflection angles on airfoil aerodynamic characteristics. The results show the existence of an optimal flap length and deflection angle combination. Specifically, when the flap length is 0.1c and the deflection angle is 10°, the lift-to-drag ratio demonstrates significant improvement under defined operational conditions. These findings offer practical guidance for optimizing wind turbine airfoil designs.

Source: Machines

DOI: 10.3390/machines13050366

Authors: Jiaxin Xu, Zhongyao Ji, Yihuang Zhang, Geye Yao, Yaoru Qian, Zhengzhi Wang

Institutions: Nanjing Institute of Technology, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Language: English

Topic: Wind Energy Research and Development

Subfield: Aerospace Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896