Abstract:
The present disclosure includes a shrouded fluid turbine that generates large wake expansion to generate power coefficients greater than the Betz power coefficient of 16/27 based on maximum system area. The Virtual Diffuser Wind Turbine (VDWT) system operates differently with, and without power extraction. With power extraction the VDWT system includes a high rotor thrust coefficient combined with an annular shroud system that uses bypass flow to form an annular, high-energy bypass flow stream that flows outward at the exit plane of the VDWT generating an observable virtual diffuser downstream therefrom. This outward, high-energy flow reduces exit plane pressure generating large wake expansions. The large wake expansion increases the flow rate through the rotor. Without rotor power extraction, separation takes place which reduces some of aerodynamic loads on the VDWT at extreme winds.