Performance improvement of Savonius hydrokinetic turbine using upstream crescent shape deflector

The utilization of non-renewable energy sources such as coal, natural gas, and oil has led to significant environmental degradation. In response, clean and sustainable energy technologies are being developed at a rapid pace. Among these, hydrokinetic turbines, which harness kinetic energy from free-flowing water, have shown promise in generating electricity. The Savonius turbine, a type of hydrokinetic turbine, employs drag force and features a simple design that operates independently of flow direction but is typically less efficient. This study explores the impact of installing a crescent-shaped deflector upstream of the returning blade on the performance of the Savonius hydrokinetic turbine. Deflectors are crucial for enhancing flow control and reducing negative torque on the returning blade, leading to improved turbine efficiency. The results demonstrate that the addition of the crescent shaped deflector significantly enhances the turbine’s overall performance, achieving a maximum power coefficient of 0.264 at a specific rotational speed. Additionally, incorporating a flat plate deflector upstream of the driving blade, in conjunction with the crescent-shaped deflector, led to a further 19.51% increase in the power coefficient. This study introduces a novel approach to improving the efficiency of Savonius hydrokinetic turbines, offering valuable insights for advancing renewable energy technologies.