Improving the Efficiency of Horizontal-Axis Wind Turbines Using High-Lift Devices

Abstract

This study investigates the potential of trailing-edge flaps to enhance the aerodynamic performance, efficiency, and energy capture of horizontal-axis wind turbines. Three airfoil profiles, FX66-S-196V, FX63-137 S, and SG6043, were incorporated at different radial positions along the turbine blades. Trailing-edge flaps were introduced as active aerodynamic control devices to regulate aerodynamic forces and improve blade performance under varying wind conditions. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and optimization techniques were employed to evaluate the effects of flap deployment on turbine aerodynamic characteristics. The influences of flap deflection angle, position, and deployment strategy were examined in terms of power coefficient, lift-to-drag ratio, and energy extraction efficiency. The results indicate that appropriate flap deployment can improve turbine performance, with predicted power output enhancements ranging from 2.5% to 4.6%, depending on operating conditions, including wind speed, tip-speed ratio, angle of attack, and flap deflection angle. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis identified favorable flap configurations under different wind regimes, emphasizing the potential benefits of adaptive aerodynamic control strategies. These findings demonstrate the potential of trailing-edge flaps to improve wind turbine aerodynamic efficiency and energy capture, providing a basis for further development and experimental validation of active aerodynamic control systems for horizontal-axis wind turbines.