Hello,
I am writing a BEM code implementing the solution algorithm presented in A simple solution method for the blade element momentum equations with guaranteed convergence by A. Ning ( doi.org/10.1002/we.1636 ). I am using the airfoilprep.py module to extrapolate the airfoil performance out to ±180 degrees. My question comes down to when to estimate airfoil performance. Do I estimate airfoil performance for each section of the blade, or just one time at the mean radius and chord? In Seligs description of the technique used for airfoilprep.py, it outlines the process, but doesn’t describe how to use it in practice. Both seem like reasonable choices, but I am certain that one is accepted practice. Thank you for your guidance in this matter.
Best Regards,
Logan Unser
Tennessee Tech University