Vertical Axis Wind Turbine Evaluation and Design

This project studied the potential for installing roof-mounted vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) systems on house roofs. The project designed several types of VAWT blades with the goal of maximizing the efficiency of a shrouded turbine. The project also used a wind simulation software program, WASP, to analyze existing wind data measured on the roofs of various WPI buildings. Scale-model tests were performed in the WPI closed-circuit wind tunnel. An RPM meter and a 12 volt step generator were used to measure turbine rotation speeds and power output at different wind speeds. The project also studied roof mounting systems for turbines that are meant to dissipate vibrations to the roof structure. Turbine vibrations were measured during the wind tunnel tests and in impact tests on a scale-model house. Recommendations were made for future designs of roof-mounted VAWTs.