Simulação computacional com o software QBlade: estudo da Teoria do Momento do Elemento de Pá

Abstract

Renewable energy has gained prominence in the global scenario, particularly amid concerns about climate change and historical temperature records. In this context, wind turbines stand out as essential technology for reducing emissions of greenhouse gases, while also representing a clean and sustainable energy source. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the numerical method based on the Blade Element Momentum Theory (BEMT) in predicting the power extracted by wind turbines, comparing results from two distinct experiments. For this purpose, the QBlade software was employed, which integrates a standardized numerical algorithm, enabling precise and reproducible simulations. The methodology included program validation through experimental data to ensure result reliability. Tests covered diverse operational conditions, with emphasis on wind speed variation. The results demonstrated that the method exhibited excellent accuracy at low and moderate wind speeds, consistently aligning with empirical data. However, at higher speeds, significant discrepancies were observed, indicating limitations in the model’s predictive capability under such conditions. Despite this, the study confirmed that the numerical approach is efficient for rapid simulations, offering a balance between accuracy and computational time. It is concluded that the analyzed methodology constitutes a valuable tool for preliminary design and optimization of wind turbines, particularly in early development stages. However, supplementation with more complex models is recommended for scenarios requiring evaluation under high-intensity winds. Thus, this work contributes to advancing sustainable techniques, reinforcing the strategic role of wind energy in the global energy transition.