Design and Construction of H-Type Wind Turbine for Biu Community in Borno State Nigeria

Abstract

The global demand for sustainable energy sources has intensified the exploration of wind energy, especially for rural and off-grid communities. This study focuses on the development of a small-scale H-Type vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT) as a viable solution for decentralized power generation in Biu, Nigeria. The H-Type turbine was selected for its simple design, low maintenance requirements, and ability to operate efficiently in varying wind directions. Materials used for the turbine included aluminum alloy blades, a steel tower, a permanent magnet generator, and reinforced concrete foundations. The construction involved fabricating and assembling key components—rotor blades, hub, shaft, tower, and generator—followed by installation and structural testing. Performance evaluation was conducted using standard formulas for power output, tip speed ratio, and efficiency, across varying wind speeds from 3 to 7 m/s. Results indicated that the turbine operated efficiently within the target wind speed range, achieving a maximum power output of 91.5 W at 7 m/s, with the nominal design output at 46.3 W. Efficiency peaked at 150% at moderate wind speeds (4.5 m/s), showing robust performance for small-scale applications. Structural analysis confirmed that stresses on components remained well within safe operational limits, ensuring turbine durability. The study concludes that H-Type VAWTs present a promising, low-cost solution for rural electrification, with further optimization recommended to enhance performance across broader environmental conditions.