Study on Shape Design and Power Performance Analysis of Small Horizontal Axis Tidal Turbine with Duct Using BEM and CFD Methods

In this study, a horizontal-axis tidal turbine using a duct was designed to secure a relatively high annual energy production(AEP). Based on a rated flow velocity of 2m/s, the blade shape design was conducted by applying the BEM theory and the shape optimization of the duct using the HEEDs was completed. In order to compare the power performance of the duct-type tidal turbine, a steady state CFD analysis using STAR-CCM was performed. For the results, 5.4kW of electrical power was generated at the rated flow velocity, and the maximum efficiency was shown as a 45% at 1.6 m/s condition. It has been confirmed that the power curve uses stall controlled characteristics to protect the turbine under the condition of high flow velocity region. Additionally, the annual energy production can be improved to 9% under certain conditions because of the effect of flow velocity enhancement.