Schoen, Kate (2025) Using CFD analysis to investigate noise reduction on a wind turbine blade. Research Project, Industrial Engineering and Management.
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Abstract
Wind turbine noise remains a significant barrier to the expansion of onshore wind energy, as noise regulations and irritations limit the placement of turbines near residential areas. This research investigates aerodynamic noise reduction strategies through CFD simulations using the RANS - SST turbulence model in COMSOL. The study focuses on reducing noise by investigating different combinations of parameters, namely; the blade shape, angle of attack, wind direction, and surface roughness. This is first investigated by measuring the TKE. Subsequently, the dBA is interpreted from the CFD data to make a direct comparison in terms of sound. The parameters were tested in different combinations, with a heavier focus falling on three selected blade shapes. Results indicate that serrations on the trailing edge effectively disrupt vortex shedding, leading to a measurable reduction in Sound Pressure Level. In addition, the improved basic shape with less rotation also shares the same promising results, showing that a reduction of 3 dBA was achievable with both of these designs. These conclusions were also achieved when the samples were tested using a flow tank with a Re number similar to the computational studies. To further improve the accuracy of the models, it is recommended to use time-dependent simulations that use LES modelling. Finally, refining the blade rugosity model would better understand and analyze how coatings could be used to reduce noise.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Research Project) |
|---|---|
| Supervisor name: | Druetta, P.D. and Parisi, D. |
| Degree programme: | Industrial Engineering and Management |
| Thesis type: | Research Project |
| Language: | English |
| Date Deposited: | 25 Mar 2025 09:08 |
| Last Modified: | 26 Mar 2025 13:19 |
| URI: | https://fse.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/34926 |
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