Energy storage flywheel rotor processing hours

How does a flywheel energy storage system work?

Flywheel Energy Storage Systems (FESS) rely on a mechanical working principle: An electric motor is used to spin a rotor of high inertia up to 20,000-50,000 rpm. Electrical energy is thus converted to kinetic energy for storage. For discharging, the motor acts as a generator, braking the rotor to produce electricity.

How long does a flywheel energy storage system last?

Flywheel energy storage systems have a long working life if periodically maintained (>25 years). The cycle numbers of flywheel energy storage systems are very high (>100,000). In addition, this storage technology is not affected by weather and climatic conditions . One of the most important issues of flywheel energy storage systems is safety.

What is the operational mechanism of a flywheel?

The operational mechanism of a flywheel has two states: energy storage and energy release. Energy is stored in a flywheel when torque is applied to it. The torque increases the rotational speed of the flywheel; as a result, energy is stored. Conversely, the energy is released in the form of torque to the connected mechanical device .

How kinetic energy is stored in a flywheel?

In this storage scheme, kinetic energy is stored by spinning a disk or rotor about its axis. Amount of energy stored in disk or rotor is directly proportional to the square of the wheel speed and rotor׳s mass moment of inertia. Whenever power is required, flywheel uses the rotor inertia and converts stored kinetic energy into electricity .

How does a flywheel work?

When energy needs to be released, the flywheel reverses the generator and transforms the stored mechanical energy into electrical energy. The frequency and voltage of the output electric energy are controlled by an electrical electronic device to meet the requirements .

How does a flywheel rotor work?

The flywheel rotor works at a very high speed, making thousands of rotations per minute and storing energy in kinetic form. The design of the rotor must enhance the energy density without degrading the thermal and mechanical stress-bearing capability.