ANALYSIS OF THE AIR FLOW IN THE RENOVATED TEST SECTION OF BSHC SMALL WIND TUNNEL

• Published in: International Multidisciplinary Scientific GeoConference SGEM Vol. 2024; no. 4.1; pp. 23 - 30
• Main Author: Dobin, Nikita
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: Sofia Surveying Geology & Mining Ecology Management (SGEM) 01.01.2024
• Subjects: Aerodynamics; Air flow; Alternative energy sources; Clean energy; Clean technology; Computational fluid dynamics; Contours; Decision making; Design; Design analysis; Design optimization; Energy conversion; Energy resources; Environmental effects; Environmental research; Flow velocity; Fluid dynamics; Fluid flow; Homogeneity; Hydrodynamics; Mathematical models; Pressure distribution; Renewable energy; Renewable energy sources; Renewable resources; Static pressure; Velocity distribution; Wind effects; Wind power; Wind tunnel testing; Wind tunnels
• ISSN: 1314-2704
• DOI: 10.5593/sgem2024/4.1/s17.03

The existing at Bulgarian Ship Hydrodynamics Centre (BSHC) wind tunnel named MINIAT is under upgrade, in order to expand the range of the Center's capabilities and the scope of aerodynamic research by enlarging the working section sizes and closing the air flow. This renovation is inspired by recent development of modern technologies for renewable wind energy conversion and necessity for comprehensive investigation of environmental effects. The objective of this study was to theoretically calculate a new aerodynamic contour and subsequently develop a computer model for the new constrictor and diffusor sections of the wind tunnel. To make the final decision, a series of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations has been performed in ANSYS Fluent to confirm the adequacy of the sizes of the new wind tunnel elements selected using the theoretical method. The behavior of the flow in these areas was also studied using CFD methods in ANSYS fluent. Static pressure contours and velocity field contours are presented in transverse and longitudinal sections, to illustrate the homogeneity of the flow. The results will be illustrated and presented graphically. This research is significant within the context of Renewable Energy Sources and Clean Technologies. By optimizing the wind tunnel design, the study enhances its application for renewable energy studies, particularly in wind energy conversion. The novelty of this research lies in its comprehensive approach, combining theoretical design with advanced CFD simulations to achieve an optimal aerodynamic contour for the upgraded wind tunnel sections. The authors' contributions include the theoretical calculations, development of the computer model, and the extensive CFD analysis that validated the design, ensuring its effectiveness for future aerodynamic and environmental research. The results will be graphically illustrated to provide a clear understanding of the improvements achieved through this upgrade.