Shape design and performance test for small wind turbine blade

Based on the 1D-blade element momentum theory (BEM) with the improved tip loss correction introduced, a new aerodynamic model of wind turbine is developed. Using one high aerodynamic performance airfoil with 18% relative thickness, one small wind turbine blade is designed and the distribution of the chord and twist angle of the blade are determined. According to the shape parameters of the blade, a method to set up the 3D model is presented by investigating the coordinate position of each section of the blade. Based on the fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) molding technology, the manufacturing process of wind turbine blade is put forward. Using fiber reinforced polymer, the wind turbine blades are manufactured by the mold making and layer process. A test platform and method of wind turbine output power are carried out, the output powers at different speeds of the wind turbine are obtained and discussed. The comparison between the designed and one existing wind turbine rotor is completed to show the reliability and superiority of the design and test method presented in this paper.