Modal Dynamic Response of a Darreius Wind Turbine Rotor with NACA0018 Blade Profile

Abstract

The global wind energy industry achieved a significant milestone by reaching a total capacity of one terawatt (TW) by the end of 2023, underscoring the increasing importance of wind energy as a sustainable energy source (Global Wind Energy Outlook, 2022). This study focuses on the simulation and dynamic analysis of an H-Darrieus wind turbine rotor using 3D Finite Element Analysis (FEA). Key structural parameters, including natural frequencies, associated vibration modes, and mass participation rates, were determined to optimize the rotor performance. A novel blade design is proposed in this work, offering a lighter and more robust alternative to traditional rotor blades manufactured from composites, like fiberglass-polyester, fiberglass-epoxy, or combinations with wood and carbon. The lighter design enhances the startup performance at low wind speeds, while the improved strength and fixing mechanisms ensure resilience against the increasingly severe sandstorms reported in recent years. The vibration dynamics of the rotor under critical wind loads were analyzed using the SolidWorks Simulation software, yielding highly satisfactory results. The stability and reliability of the rotor were validated, as the dynamic performance indices, and the quality criteria meet the requirements for optimal operation.