Improving the efficiency of wind turbine blades for low wind speeds

Wind energy is a promising renewable energy source, but its effectiveness can be
limited in areas with low and inconsistent wind speeds. Mechanical engineers can
research methods to improve the efficiency of wind turbine blades at these lower
speeds. This research could involve:

 Aerodynamic design optimization: Studying blade shapes and materials to

capture more wind energy at lower speeds.
 Active control systems: Developing mechanisms that adjust the pitch or angle
of the blades to optimize performance in varying wind conditions.
 Tribology investigations: Researching lubricants and bearing materials to
minimize friction losses in the turbine drivetrain at lower rotational speeds.

Energy capture efficiency: The primary objective is to improve the amount of energy
extracted from low wind speeds.

Structural integrity: Blade designs must be structurally sound to withstand wind loads
and ensure safe operation.

Cost-effectiveness: New blade designs should be commercially viable for widespread

adoption.
This research has the potential to significantly increase the viability of wind energy in a
wider range of locations, making it a more competitive and reliable source of clean
energy.

Background
Wind energy is a rapidly growing source of renewable energy, but its efficiency is highly
dependent on wind speed. Conventional wind turbines are most effective in areas with
strong, consistent winds. However, many regions have wind regimes characterized by
lower and more variable wind speeds.

This presents a challenge for wider adoption of wind energy:

 Limited applicability: Current wind turbine technology may not be cost-effective

in areas with lower wind speeds, hindering the overall potential of wind energy.
 Inefficient energy capture: At lower wind speeds, existing blades may not
capture enough wind energy to justify the cost of installation and operation.
 Unreliable energy source: Inconsistent wind speeds can lead to fluctuations in
energy production, making it difficult to integrate wind energy into the power grid.
ADAMA SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY
UNIVERSITY
SCHOOL OF MECHANICAL, CHEMICAL AND
MATERIALS ENGINEERING
DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Course name: Research methodology

Assignment 4

Academic year: 5th

Name: Mikael Afido

Id: UGR/20008/12

Submitted to: Dr. ziyn Engdasew

Submission date: 23 April 2024

ADAMA SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY
UNIVERSITY
SCHOOL OF MECHANICAL, CHEMICAL AND
MATERIALS ENGINEERING
DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Course name: Research methodology

Assignment 4

Academic year: 5th

Name: Abel Kifle

Id: UGR/19697/12

Submitted to: Dr. ziyn Engdasew

Submission date: 23 April 2024

ADAMA SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY
UNIVERSITY
SCHOOL OF MECHANICAL, CHEMICAL AND
MATERIALS ENGINEERING
DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Course name: Research methodology

Assignment 4

Academic year: 5th

Name: Kidus Degife

Id: UGR/19882/12

Submitted to: Dr. ziyn Engdasew

Submission date: 23 April 2024