Numerical Investigation of Pressure Distribution and Wake Vortices Behind Wind Turbines Using ANSYS Fluent<br />Eng. Nourhan Thamer Assi<br /><br />Relevant Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)<br />Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy<br />Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure<br />Goal 13: Climate Action<br />Goal 15: Life on Land<br /><br />Wind energy has become a cornerstone of sustainable power generation due to its renewable nature and low environmental impact. Understanding the aerodynamic behavior behind wind turbines, particularly the pressure distribution and wake vortices, is critical for optimizing turbine placement and improving overall wind farm efficiency. This study employs ANSYS Fluent to conduct a detailed numerical investigation of these phenomena around a single horizontal-axis wind turbine.<br /><br />Simulation Approach<br />The investigation models the airflow around the turbine blades and the downstream wake region using three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The turbine geometry is accurately represented, and the governing Navier-Stokes equations are solved under turbulent flow conditions using the k-ε turbulence model. The simulation captures velocity fields, pressure gradients, and vortex structures formed in the wake zone.<br /><br />Pressure Distribution Analysis<br />Results reveal that the pressure drops significantly on the suction side of the blades, generating lift essential for turbine rotation. The pressure recovery on the pressure side influences the torque produced. The detailed pressure maps provide insight into blade loading and potential regions prone to fatigue, which can guide blade design improvements.<br /><br />Wake Vortices and Their Impact<br />Behind the turbine, the formation of complex wake vortices was observed. These vortices cause velocity deficits and increased turbulence intensity, which can negatively affect downstream turbines in a wind farm. The simulation highlights the size, strength, and decay rate of wake vortices at different downstream distances, providing crucial data for optimizing turbine spacing to reduce wake interference.<br /><br />Implications for Wind Farm Design<br />Understanding wake dynamics allows engineers to improve wind farm layouts, maximizing energy capture while minimizing structural fatigue and maintenance costs. The findings support the development of control strategies, such as yaw adjustment and pitch control, to mitigate wake effects and enhance farm performance.<br /><br />Conclusion<br />This numerical study using ANSYS Fluent offers valuable insights into the complex flow behavior behind wind turbines. By analyzing pressure distribution and wake vortices, engineers can better design and operate wind turbines and farms to achieve higher efficiency and reliability. Continued advancements in CFD modeling will further support the growth of wind energy as a key player in sustainable energy systems.<br /><br />Al-Mustaqbal University – The No. 1 Private University in Iraq