Non-homogeneity of energy density in a vertical wind profile for open-air laboratory tests

Abstract

The research presents the calculation by numerical methods of the energy density for a typical vertical wind profile, which is obtained from data acquired by the Regional Center for Wind Technology (CERTE) in the region of Juchitán de Zaragoza, Oaxaca, Mexico. The vertical wind profile considered presents inhomogeneities in energy density and speed, unlike the controlled conditions in a laboratory with a wind tunnel. The energy density allows us to calculate correction factors on the measured parameters of a wind turbine when it is tested under free wind laboratory conditions. The correction factor for the power coefficient in a small wind turbine with a capacity to generate 30 kW of power, developed by CIATEQ AC Centro de Tecnología Avanzada, hypothetically measured under free wind conditions, is also shown. These correction factors can also be useful in estimating the power generated when laboratory conditions are not available.