Working mechanism of flywheel energy storage

How does a flywheel energy storage work?

A flywheel energy storage can have energy fed in the rotational mass of a flywheel, store it as kinetic energy, and release out upon demand. They work by spinning up a heavy disk or rotor to high speeds and then tapping that rotational energy to discharge high power bursts of electricity.

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 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 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 .

What is the difference between a flywheel and a battery storage system?

Flywheel Systems are more suited for applications that require rapid energy bursts, such as power grid stabilization, frequency regulation, and backup power for critical infrastructure. Battery Storage is typically a better choice for long-term energy storage, such as for renewable energy systems (solar or wind) or home energy storage.

Which method is used in flywheel energy storage system?

Another method used in flywheel energy storage systems is to store energy with high speed. In this method the rotating object is rotated up to 100,000 rpm . The rotating object weight is low in this method. This method is used in small applications in terms of volume and weight.