This study investigates the performance of Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs) with an emphasis on blade geometry optimization to enhance torque output. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations performed using ANSYS, analyzed three blade designs: helical, curved, and straight (H-rotor). Harnessing urban wind energy through Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs) offers a sustainable solution to meet energy needs in dense urban environments. This study evaluates the performance of three VAWT blade geometries helical, curved, and H-rotor under varying wind speeds and rotational velocities, with a focus on torque generation. Results highlight the helical blade as the most efficient design, delivering an average torque of 7.89 Nm at high wind speeds of 15 m/s and a blade velocity of 200 RPM. This significantly outperformed the curved blade, which averaged 2.03 Nm, and the H-rotor blade, which generated only 1.17 Nm. While the curved blade exhibited negative torque during startup, leading to delays in energy generation, and the H-rotor blade consistently delivered the lowest torque, the helical blade’s minimal torque fluctuation ensured steady operation even in turbulent urban wind conditions. This stability and superior torque output position the helical blade as a highly efficient solution for urban wind energy systems. These advancements will pave the way for more efficient, reliable, and sustainable urban wind energy solutions, contributing significantly to the transition toward greener cities.
Gupta et al. (Tue,) studied this question.