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Laminar vs. Turbulent

CSEF · 2006 Aerodynamics/ Hydrodynamics

Stewart Farley, Greg Kahn · Burlingame Intermediate School, Burlingame

Overview

Objectives/Goals This experiment tests whether wind turbines should be placed in laminar or turbulent flow. Laminar flow is a straight, sequenced type of wind while turbulent flow moves erratically. Methods/Materials To test this, a wind tunnel was built to provide a controlled environment for a miniature wind turbine to test how much energy it produces in laminar and turbulent flows. Results During the experiment, the wind turbine produced more energy in laminar flow than in turbulent flow. There was a significant difference between them: 8.7%. This experiment supports the idea that wind turbines should be put in level, flat places that produce laminar flow. Conclusions/Discussion This could greatly increase the efficiency of wind turbines. Since current wind turbines have only a 40 to 60 percent energy efficiency rate right now, this result could have a large impact on wind turbine placement and use.

Summary statement

This project tests whether wind turbines should be put in laminar or turbulent flow for maximum energy output.

Help received

Father helped with some ideas and handy work on the wind tunnel.

Competition history

  • CSEF 2006 Aerodynamics/ Hydrodynamics · Entry J0111

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