Design, fabrication, and testing of a four-bladed horizontal axis wind turbine for electricity generation

Abstract

This study intends to contribute to the creation of reliable and efficient wind turbine systems in light of the rising environmental concerns and the requirement for sustainable energy sources. This study focuses on the design, construction, and performance evaluation of a four-bladed horizontal axis wind turbine (HAWT) for electricity generation. This study aimed to contribute to the development of efficient and reliable wind turbine systems. The choice of analyzing a four-bladed HAWT and not the conventional 3 blade is because with 4 blades, the wind turbine can produce more torque at lower wind speeds, allowing it to be more applicable for low wind speed areas. Commonly vertical axis wind turbines are the choice for low wind speed areas, although their efficiencies are not as good as those of HAWT's. The research investigated the efficiency of the HAWT through parameters such as power coefficient, cut-in speed, revolutions per minute (RPM), and tip speed ratio. The objectives included designing and constructing the HAWT and evaluating its performance under load and no-load conditions. The data collected were analyzed and interpreted, providing insights into the efficiency and potential improvements of the four-bladed HAWT for sustainable energy generation.