Computational Fluid Dynamics and Composite Material Study on Scoop-Type Savonius Turbine for Train-Based Energy Generation

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This is an unedited manuscript accepted for publication and provided as an Article in Press for early access at the author’s request. The article will undergo copyediting, typesetting, and galley proof review before final publication. Please be aware that errors may be identified during production that could affect the content. All legal disclaimers of the journal apply.

Year : 2026 | Volume : 14 | 01 | Page :
    By

    P. Mohammed Tippu Sulthan,

  • Naveen Kumar,

  • V Velumani,

  • Devaraj E,

  1. UG Student, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Kuppam Engineering College, Kuppam, Andhra Pradesh, India
  2. Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Kuppam Engineering College, Kuppam, Andhra Pradesh, India
  3. Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, V S B Engineering College, Karur, Tamil Nadu, India
  4. Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, CMR University, Bangalore, Karnataka, India

Abstract

This study investigates the feasibility of integrating a scoop-type savonius vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT) on the rooftop of a moving train to generate renewable onboard power. The motivation stems from increasing demands for sustainable energy solutions and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, particularly in transportation. A two-blade savonius turbine, with dimensions of 0.4 m in diameter and 0.5 m in height, was modeled in PTC Creo Parametric 3.0 and analyzed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations in FlowVision3.04.09. At a representative train speed of 17 m/s, theoretical analysis predicted a power output of 239.5 W and torque of 4.47 N·m, while CFD simulations yielded 209.03 W and 4.54 N·m, indicating close agreement. Pressure contour results confirmed higher aerodynamic forces on the concave blade surface, validating effective torque generation and consistent performance. Additionally, drag analysis showed negligible increases in aerodynamic resistance, suggesting minimal impact on train efficiency. The results confirm that the turbine can effectively utilize train-induced airflow to produce auxiliary energy without compromising performance. This study shows a scalable and sustainable approach to energy harvesting in rail transport, which may contribute to clean energy initiatives such as Green India and Clean India missions. These results show that it is possible to use onboard wind turbines as a way to achieve energy efficiency and environmental sustainability in rail systems. (This corresponds to an average train speed of ~60 km/h, representative of typical passenger train operations across major routes).

Keywords: PTC Creo, wind energy, Scoop-type savonius, wind turbine, train bogie, CFD-Flow Vision.

How to cite this article:
P. Mohammed Tippu Sulthan, Naveen Kumar, V Velumani, Devaraj E. Computational Fluid Dynamics and Composite Material Study on Scoop-Type Savonius Turbine for Train-Based Energy Generation. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(01):-.
How to cite this URL:
P. Mohammed Tippu Sulthan, Naveen Kumar, V Velumani, Devaraj E. Computational Fluid Dynamics and Composite Material Study on Scoop-Type Savonius Turbine for Train-Based Energy Generation. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(01):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2026/view=235691


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Ahead of Print Subscription Review Article
Volume 14
01
Received 18/09/2025
Accepted 26/09/2025
Published 07/01/2026
Publication Time 111 Days
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