Position Start Date: Subject to Availability
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Description:
Improving the aerodynamic performance of wind turbines is a key strategy for enhancing energy production efficiency. In the WiRE Laboratory at EPFL, we aim to investigate novel aerodynamic optimization methods based on bioinspired flow control mechanisms.
This project will focus on developing and testing advanced flow control concepts to upgrade the aerodynamic behavior of existing wind turbine blades. By integrating bioinspired features—such as surface modifications, appendages, or tip geometries—into current blade designs, the project seeks to mitigate flow separation, improve aerodynamic efficiency, and ultimately increase the annual energy production (AEP).
The study will rely on high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to evaluate the impact of various control strategies on blade-level performance. Concepts will be explored within the constraints of practical retrofitting approaches, as would be applied during regular turbine maintenance.
Your responsibilities:
- Design bioinspired flow control concepts for turbine blades
- Develop and execute CFD simulations of blade sections and full rotor configurations
- Analyze flow behavior, aerodynamic loads, and power performance indicators
- Evaluate potential AEP gains under realistic operational conditions
Learning outcomes:
- Strong expertise in CFD-based aerodynamic design and analysis
- Familiarity with advanced wind turbine aerodynamics and flow control strategies
- Ability to assess retrofitting impacts on real-world turbine performance
- Experience in scientific modeling, technical reporting, and communication
Proficiency with CFD tools (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM), coding (e.g., Python, Matlab), and a solid background in fluid dynamics are recommended for this project.
To express interest and obtain more information about the project, please contact:
Dr. Amr Khedr
Email: [email protected]
(Please include in cc the lab supervisor Prof. Fernando Portè-Agel at [email protected])