Utilizing the Taguchi Method to Optimize Rotor Blade Geometry for Improved Power Output in Ducted Micro Horizontal-Axis Wind Turbines

Abstract

This numerical study utilized the Taguchi method to systematically optimize the blade geometry of a ducted micro horizontal-axis wind turbine (HAWT) for moving vehicles to enhance the output power coefficient. Three geometric parameters of the rotor, namely, the number of blades, rotor solidity, and blade pitch angle, were investigated. The optimum parameter design includes eight blades, rotor solidity of 60%, and a pitch angle of 30°, where the blade pitch angle had the most significant effect on the rotor performance. This result confirms that high rotor solidity is more suitable for micro HAWT. The CP,max value achieved with the optimum geometry was 0.432, which was 39.4% higher than that achieved with the worst blade geometry. The aerodynamic characteristics of this wind turbine were also investigated. Compared with the worst blade geometry, the rotor with the optimum blade geometry drew more airflow into the duct and exhibited a higher CP,max due to a greater pressure difference between the windward and leeward sides of the blades. The optimum blade geometry achieved a CT,max of 0.43, which was 38.7% higher than the worst blade geometry. The investigated untwisted blades exhibited low torque near their tips; therefore, the use of twisted blades is recommended for further increasing the torque generated at the blade tip and thus the turbine’s output power. This study facilitates insight into blade geometry effects on rotor performance and helps improve wind energy efficiency, contributing to sustainable development goals (SDGs) like SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy).