Fabrication and Performance Analysis of an S1046 H-Darrieus VAWT using Mahogany as Blades

¹ School of Mechanical, Manufacturing, and Energy Engineering, Mapúa University, 658 Muralla St., Intramuros Manila, 1002 Philippines
² School of Graduate Studies, Mapúa University, 658 Muralla St., Intramuros Manila, 1002 Philippines

^* Corresponding author: rgtayactac@mapua.edu.ph

Abstract

Wind turbines are systems that generate electricity from the wind. These turbines vary in design and performance. For this study, the goal is to design an H-Darrieus type Vertical Axis Turbine that utilizes mahogany for its blade material. Mahogany is a natural composite type of material which addresses pollution concerns when using nanocomposites and is known for its high strength, durability, and workability. The airfoil to be made will follow an S1046 profile which yields the best performance when it comes to Tip Speed Ratio (TSR). The wind tunnel is utilized for the testing process wherein it controls the wind speed from 4m/s to 10m/s. Data showed that the maximum rotational speed in rpm achieved by the designed turbine is 53.18 at 10 m/s wind speed. Based on the results, the performance would not surpass the original material used for the design which is fiberglass polyester. However, the maximum TSR generated is 0.1879, that is comparatively lower than the maximum value from the specified theoretical considerations, specifically TSR of four.