Non-uniform velocity distribution effect on the Betz-Joukowsky limit

Leonardo P. Chamorro, R. E. A Arndt

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

A simple analytic correction is derived for the maximum efficiency of an ideal wind turbine rotor, the Betz-Joukowsky limit. The analytic correction accounts for the effect that the non-uniform atmospheric boundary layer velocity distribution has on the Betz-Joukowsky derivation. The maximum power coefficient predicted by using the atmospheric boundary layer velocity profile is slightly higher than that predicted by using a uniform velocity distribution. The application of the correction to a 100 m rotor diameter at 80 m hub height in a neutrally stratified boundary layer flow predicts a maximum power increase of 1-2%, depending on the approach terrain.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)279-282
Number of pages4
JournalWind Energy
Volume16
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2013
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Betz limit
  • atmospheric boundary layer
  • velocity distribution effects
  • wind energy
  • wind turbine performance

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

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