Available at: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/theses/3056
Date of Award
6-2025
Degree Name
MS in Mechanical Engineering
Department/Program
Mechanical Engineering
College
College of Engineering
Advisor
Eltahry Elghandour
Advisor Department
Mechanical Engineering
Advisor College
College of Engineering
Abstract
Savonius wind turbines are widely used for smaller scale wind energy generation in lower wind speeds. The most common design for these turbines has reduced performance because of interference of the flowing air and the returning blades. This study considers the potential impact of optimized external cowling and blade geometry on the efficiency, optimal speed, and torque output of the turbine via computational fluid dynamics and practical experimentation. Results show that careful placement of guide vanes and proper spacing between the blades and the cowling are paramount, as errors in the design of either has may greatly reduce the performance of a wind turbine. Blade geometry also plays a role in further optimizing performance, dictated mainly by variations in the coefficient of drag. Modifications intended to increase performance may cause more harm than good if placement is not carefully considered.