Comparative aerodynamic performance analysis of five-step NACA wind turbine airfoils under the same ambient conditions

The use of wind turbines is becoming widespread worldwide and the amount of energy produced is increasing day by day. Airfoils play a critical role in the power generation of turbines. The design and aerodynamic properties of wind turbine blades are of great importance for optimum efficiency. Turbine airfoil structure is the most important factor affecting the turbine blade's wind energy utilization and aerodynamic structure. In this study, the aerodynamic performance of NACA 5-Digit airfoils under steady conditions is comparatively analyzed using Q-Blade simulation software for a horizontal axis wind turbine model with an installed power of 3 kW and a blade length of 2 meters. As a result of the analyses, it is aimed to determine and evaluate the airfoil with optimum efficiency under sample design conditions. As a result, by comparing factors such as lift (Cl) and drag (Cd) coefficients, slip ratio, moment coefficients, it was determined that NACA 22112, NACA 23012, NACA 23015, NACA 23018, NACA 23021, NACA 23024, NACA 23112, NACA 24112, NACA 25112 airfoils for small diameter wind turbines, NACA 22112 airfoil is the most aerodynamically efficient airfoil.