The influence of axial gusts on the output of low-inertia rotors

摘要: Abstract Wind and hydrokinetic turbines are designed for steady operation, hence their efficiency suffers in unsteady environments. In this study, the response of a low-inertia rotor model to axial gusts is investigated experimentally. Gust profiles modelled as ramp functions with differing slopes, simulated by accelerating towing-tank facility. Rotor speed torque recorded during system’s variation freestream velocity. Furthermore, time-resolved particle image velocimetry (PIV) carried out rotor’s wake gain insights on change bound circulation. The power produced observed be higher gust than operation. For instance, output fastest is, at maximum, 27% Using PIV data, circulation tip trailing vortices estimated proxy circulation, found have absolute magnitudes gust. As result, increase circulatory forces concluded source increased performance. current findings relevant systems directly coupled generators no control.