The role of contact mechanical energy storage bearings

Why are bearings important for flywheel energy storage systems?

Bearings for flywheel energy storage systems (FESS) are absolutely critical, as they determine not only key performance specifications such as self-discharge and service live, but may cause even safety-critical situations in the event of failure.

Can superconducting magnetic bearings be used for flywheel energy storage?

K Nagashima et al., Superconducting magnetic bearing for a flywheel energy storage system using superconducting coils and bulk superconductors, Physica C: Superconductivity, 469 (15) (2009) 1244–1249. N Koshizuka, R&D of superconducting bearing technologies for flywheel energy storage systems, Physica C: Superconductivity, 445 (2006) 1103–1108.

What are the alternative bearings for flywheel energy storage systems?

Active magnetic bearings and passive magnetic bearings are the alternative bearings for flywheel energy storage systems , . Active magnetic bearing has advantages such as simple construction and capability of supporting large loads, but the complexity of the control system is daunting.

What are the main bearing loads in an automotive flywheel energy storage system?

The main bearing loads in an automotive flywheel energy storage system are the gyroscopic reaction forces, the mass forces due to linear or angular acceleration, and the imbalance forces of the rotor.

Can a magnetic bearing control a flywheel suspension system?

Second, a sliding mode control method is feasible as a means of control for the thrust magnetic bearing in the flywheel suspension system. Third, a passive magnet bearing system is well suited as a component in a magnetic-bearing-based suspension system for energy storage flywheels.

How does a magnetic bearing support a rotor load?

The magnetic bearing support the rotor load through magnetic levitation rather than through any mechanical process. The unique property that superconducting material blocks the magnetic field from its interior means that it possesses complete diamagnetic properties and provides frictionless and stable levitation.