• Wind and Structures
• /
• v.32 no.1
• /
• pp.47-53
• /
• 2021

This paper proposes a novel diffuser design for Diffuser Augmented Wind Turbines (DAWT) based on the blunt trailing edge airfoil AF300. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations are carried out to measure the performance of the AF300 diffuser against diffusers made with the shape of other high performance low wind speed airfoils. The results show that the proposed diffuser produces a greater air mass flow increase through the plane of the turbine than the other diffusers and it can be used to increase the performance of a horizontal axis wind turbine.

• Wind and Structures
• /
• v.5 no.2_3_4
• /
• pp.267-276
• /
• 2002

Research being undertaken at the University of Auckland has enabled Vortec Energy to improve the performance of the Vortec 7 Diffuser Augmented Wind Turbine. Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) modelling of the Vortec 7 was used to ascertain the effectiveness of geometric modifications to the Vortec 7. The CFD work was then developed to look at new geometries, and refinement of these led to greater power augmentation for a given diffuser exit area ratio. Both full scale analysis of the Vortec 7 and a wind tunnel investigation of the development design have been used for comparison with the CFD model.