Aerodynamic improvement of a two-blade magnus wind turbine: numerical and experimental analysis of aerodynamics and pressure distribution

Abstract

Improving wind power plant efficiency is crucial due to the increasing demand for renewable energy. This study analyzes the aerodynamic characteristics of a wind power plant equipped with two combined blades that integrate fixed blades and rotating cylinders. The object of the study is a wind power plant model designed to optimize airflow direction and enhance lift. The methodology involves numerical modeling using the Ansys Fluent software package, as well as experimental testing under laboratory conditions. The main results show that as when the air-flow velocity increases from 3 to 12 m/s, and thrust force rises from 0.5 N to 3.85 N. Comparative analysis of the minimum and maximum pressure on the blade surfaces demonstrates a strong correlation between increasing rotational speed and elevated pressure differentials: pmax rises from approximately 0.4 Pa to 0.7 Pa, while pmin increases from about 0.15 Pa to 0.4 Pa. The thrust coefficient decreases from 1.45 to 1.05 as the Reynolds number (Re) increases, indicating improved aerodynamic characteristics during the transition to turbulent flow. A comparative analysis of numerical and experimental data reveals a deviation of no more than 5%, confirming the model’s reliability and the soundness of the research methodology. The conclusions indicate that employing combined blades can enhance the aerodynamic efficiency of a wind power plant by 8–10% compared with traditional designs. This improvement may foster the development of more efficient and stable wind energy systems, particularly in regions with low to medium wind potential.