Advanced VGs

Vortex Generators (VG) offer an inexpensive method for increasing the energy yield from tubines, especially as the blades suffer a loss of efficiency due to contamination or erosion. Conventional VGs are triangular fins mounted on the blade surface. They are generally beneficial for the turbine performance, increasing the energy yield of a 5-year-old turbine by up to 2% compared to no VGs. In this project, the partners will develop improved VG geometry having a lower drag than the conventional VGs, offering an energy gain higher than that from conventional VGs. The project will also deal with optimization of spacing between VGs being another potential source of improved performance. We will utilize wind tunnel testing as well as improve the numericial tools for VG modelling, simulation and design optimization, and carry out a full-scale validation of the new VGs. We target an increase in energy production of 1% relative to conventional VGs. The improvements from the new VGs may lead to a decrease in CO2 emission of 0.8 M. ton/year worldwide and increased competitiveness of the project partners leading to new jobs. Further, it will contribute to maintain Denmark's 32,000+ work force directly involved in the wind energy sector.