Innovative and cost effective design of small-size micro wind turbines for low-speed regions, suitable for use in Egyptian villages

Wind energy has proven to be an important source of clean and renewable energy. In order to take advantage of wind turbines, the design of aerodynamic-efficient blade is required not only to improve the performance and reliability of wind turbines, but also to operate these turbines in a safe condition. This project focuses on designing an efficient small-size wind-turbine that can operate efficiently in low wind speed regions as the situation in north Egypt. The design objectives include: cost-effective manufacturing and assembly of the turbine's components, select the size, shape and orientation of rotor blades for maximum induced power, minimize startup friction. In this project, a manually pitch-controlled small-size rotor diameter of wind turbine has been designed, constructed and tested for aerodynamic performance. The present report covers four main tasks. First, careful design of number of flat blades with different size and shapes & make a simulation for each blade on Blade to outline the characteristic of each blade. Second, a pitch control system is to control the pitch angle manually by a moving mechanism implemented to the hub. Third, design the main body of the turbine, & test the numerous blade designs at different pitch angles and record the result of each blade to decide the best pitch angle for each blade and the next stage is to compare the blades with each other to choose the optimal design. Fourth, to enhance the per performance of the turbine is by reducing the friction losses generated due to the ball bearing, so we design a magnetic bearing by which we can eliminate the friction losses in the turbine, so in this stage, design & test a magnetic bearing & compare its performance with the ball bearing and record the results.
The idea behind choosing flat blade is the target regions for this technology are locations where people have limited access to tools or supplies. In addition, the area must have access to a reasonable wind resource and access to certain key materials. These materials can be easily produce the blades if the original blades was deformed or broken. The Flat blades are less common than other designs but offer significant benefits, especially in low income or remote areas. Benefits of Flat Blades are Easy to produce & Simple design & Less equipment and time is required during construction & Easier to ensure blades are a consistent shape and size