Wind tunnel tests on a variable geometry Savonius rotor

Abstract

The Savonius rotor is a novel fluid mechanical device of the vertical axis type, that has been studied by a number of investigators since the 1930's. In reviewing the work that has been done on this type of vertical axis rotor, it has been concluded that there are a number of development alternatives that should receive some attention from the standpoint of both test and analysis. The primary object of this project was to try to improve the overall efficiency and starting torque characteristics of the Savonius rotor, while at the same time keeping its advantages. A number of variables which effect the efficiency do not. appear to have been studied systematically. These include blade aspect ratio, the use of end plates, relative position of blades and effect of shielding the advancing blade to reduce its drag. Optimisation of these variables may result in appreciable increases in efficiency. For these reasons a model of a variable geometry Savonius rotor whose vanes could the adjusted to alter its geometrical shape was designed and constructed. Twenty configurations of the Savonius rotor were tested in the Wind Tunnel to determine the aerodynamic performance [...].