Marco Torresi

Bio: Marco Torresi is an academic researcher from Polytechnic University of Bari. The author has contributed to research in topics: Turbine & Combustion. The author has an hindex of 14, co-authored 73 publications receiving 755 citations. Previous affiliations of Marco Torresi include Instituto Politécnico Nacional.

Detailed CFD Analysis of the Steady Flow in a Wells Turbine Under Incipient and Deep Stall Conditions

Abstract: This paper presents the results of the numerical simulations carried out to evaluate the performance of a high solidity Wells turbine designed for an oscillating water column wave energy conversion device. The Wells turbine has several favorable features (e.g., simplicity and high rotational speed) but is characterized by a relatively narrow operating range with high efficiency. The aim of this work is to investigate the flow-field through the turbine blades in order to offer a description of the complex flow mechanism that originates separation and, consequently, low efficiency at high flow-rates. Simulations have been performed by solving the Reynolds-averaged Navier―Stokes equations together with three turbulence models, namely, the Spalart―Allmaras, k-ω, and Reynolds-stress models. The capability of the three models to provide an accurate prediction of the complex flow through the Wells turbine has been assessed in two ways: the comparison of the computed results with the available experimental data and the analysis of the flow by means of the anisotropy invariant maps. Then, a detailed description of the flow at different flow-rates is provided, focusing on the interaction of the tip-leakage flow with the main stream and enlightening its role on the turbine performance.

A review of wave energy converter technology

Abstract: Ocean waves are a huge, largely untapped energy resource, and the potential for extracting energy from waves is considerable. Research in this area is driven by the need to meet renewable energy targets, but is relatively immature compared to other renewable energy technologies. This review introduces the general status of wave energy and evaluates the device types that represent current wave energy converter (WEC) technology, particularly focusing on work being undertaken within the United Kingdom. The possible power take-off systems are identified, followed by a consideration of some of the control strategies to enhance the efficiency of point absorber-type WECs. There is a lack of convergence on the best method of extracting energy from the waves and, although previous innovation has generally focused on the concept and design of the primary interface, questions arise concerning how best to optimize the powertrain. This article concludes with some suggestions of future developments.

Calculation of monthly average insolation on tilted surfaces

Abstract: Several simplified design procedures for solar energy systems require monthly average meteorological data. Monthly average daily totals of the solar radiation incident on a horizontal surface are available. However, radiation data on tilted surfaces, required by the design procedures, are generally not available. A simple method of estimating the average daily radiation for each calendar month on surfaces facing directly towards the equator has been presented by Liu and Jordan [1]. This method is verified with experimental measurements and extended to allow calculation of monthly average radiation on surfaces of a wide range of orientations.