DESIGN OF A MICRO WIND TURBINE

Abstract

This study presents the design, aerodynamic evaluation, and structural analysis of a micro wind turbine based on the NACA 0018 airfoil. Aerodynamic analysis and rotor performance simulations were conducted using QBlade, where airfoil polars, blade element momentum (BEM) simulations, and lifting line theory (LLT) were employed to evaluate turbine behavior under realistic wind conditions. The turbine demonstrated stable aerodynamic performance with smooth stall characteristics and effective energy capture within the intended operating range. Structural analysis performed using ANSYS static structural analysis confirmed that the blade design withstands operational aerodynamic and rotational loads with minimal deformation and stress. The results indicate that the proposed micro wind turbine design is structurally robust and aerodynamically efficient, making it suitable for small-scale renewable energy applications.