Wind Power Technologies: A Need for Research and Development in Improving VAWT’s Airfoil Characteristics

Authors

Rigoberto Chinchilla, Eastern Illinois UniversityFollow
Samuel Guccione, Eastern Illinois University
Joseph Tillman, Eastern Illinois University

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

April 2011

Abstract

Straight bladed fixed pitched vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs) offer several potential advantages over the standard horizontal axis wind turbines which are now in common use worldwide. The purpose of this study was to determine the need for further research and develop on improved airfoil or blade characteristics for use on straight bladed fixed pitched VAWT. This need was demonstrated by the design and construction of an airfoil that was physically modeled and field tested. The test showed that asymmetric airfoils would enable SBVAWTs to self start.

Recommended Citation

Chinchilla, Rigoberto; Guccione, Samuel; and Tillman, Joseph, "Wind Power Technologies: A Need for Research and Development in Improving VAWT’s Airfoil Characteristics" (2011). Faculty Research & Creative Activity. 9.
https://thekeep.eiu.edu/tech_fac/9