Numerical Analysis of Tilted Cavities Placement Effects on the Airfoils in Wind Turbine Systems

Abstract The objective of this study is to contribute to the research and development of vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs). This will be achieved through a comprehensive analysis of modified airfoils featuring inclined cavities, specifically tailored for applications in wind systems but not limited to this. The investigation conducted in this manuscript utilizes computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to perform a numerical assessment of different airfoil configurations that have undergone modifications consisting of the incorporation of tilted cavities along distinct lengths of their upper surfaces. The aim is to ascertain an optimal airfoil geometry for VAWT applications, with a focus on concurrently achieving a high lift coefficient while minimizing the impact on the drag coefficient, therefore enhancing the overall aerodynamic performance of VAWTs. The airfoil employed in this study is the NACA0012, serving as a benchmark for comparison with airfoils subjected to modifications involving the incorporation of tilted cavities. The results of this investigation reveal that, in terms of aerodynamic traits, one of the altered airfoil configurations exhibits superior performance relative to the NACA0012 airfoil.