Influence of turbulent flow field on power generation

A 3D mapping technique is introduced to assist in finding optimal site locations for hydrokinetic turbines. The low and high turbulent statistics are mapped out in a open channel flow in which a cylinder is utilized as a source of disturbance. Measurements includes normal and Reynold's shear stresses, turbulent kinetic energy, and average velocity. Power coefficients for a vertical axis hydrokinetic turbine influenced under different wake regions of the cylinder are correspondingly mapped out and illustrated in a 3D matrix. Along with turbulent statistics and turbine performance, verification of the results and data collected are examined via the Frozen Taylor Hypothesis and the use of Taylor Macro-Scales.