Effect of Flow Velocity on the Performance of the Savonius Hydrokinetic Turbine

Abstract

The use of hydrokinetic turbines gathers much attention due to its high power density compared to wind turbines and predictable power output. The Savonius turbine is one of the best hydrokinetic turbines, however, limitations with a low coefficient of power. The input velocity to the turbine also plays an important role in the performance of the turbine. In the present investigation, the effect of flow velocity on the performance of the Savonius turbine is investigated with numerical simulation. The grid-independent study, domain optimization, and validation of the methodology used in the present investigation are carried out prior to the investigation. The investigations are carried out for different ten inlet velocities, and the performance of the turbine is compared in form of the coefficient of power (Cp). The results indicate that to get optimum performance from the turbine, minimum of 2 m/s velocity is required for the considered design of the turbine.