A flywheel operates on the principle of storing energy through its rotating mass. Think of it as a mechanical storage tool that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy for storage. This energy is stored in the form of rotational kinetic energy.
First-generation flywheel energy-storage systems use a large steel flywheel rotating on mechanical bearings. Newer systems use carbon-fiber composite rotors that have a higher tensile strength than steel and can store much more energy for the same mass. To reduce friction, magnetic bearings are sometimes used instead of mechanical bearings.
Flywheels can absorb energy by rotating faster and release energy by giving away their rotation into something else. Flywheel Energy Storage (FES) systems refer to the contemporary rotor-flywheels that are being used across many industries to store mechanical or electrical energy.
This capability helps smooth out the variability of renewable energy and ensures a consistent power supply. By supporting the integration of renewable energy, flywheels contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
A flywheel storing energy on a locomotive. (Credit: Flywheel) Flywheels store rotational energy using the physical principle of conservation of angular momentum. In plain English, a flywheel is a heavy wheel that stores energy by rotating efficiently.
Global decarbonisation requires green energy storage solutions, of which flywheels have been touted as one of its principal proponents. These clever yet simple mechanical systems are certainly part of the energy storage future, just perhaps not in the way you envisage. Read on to find out why! Contents What is a flywheel?
OverviewMain componentsPhysical characteristicsApplicationsComparison to electric batteriesSee alsoFurther readingExternal links
Flywheel energy storage (FES) works by accelerating a rotor (flywheel) to a very high speed and maintaining the energy in the system as rotational energy. When energy is extracted from the system, the flywheel''s rotational speed is reduced as a consequence of the principle of conservation of energy; adding energy to the system correspondingly results in an increase in the speed of th…