How does Flywheel energy storage work?

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.

What is flywheel energy storage system (fess)?

Flywheel energy storage system (FESS) is an electromechanical system that stores energy in the form of kinetic energy. A mass coupled with electric machine rotates on two magnetic bearings to decrease friction at high speed. The flywheel and electric machine are placed in a vacuum to reduce wind friction.

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 .

What are the components of a flywheel energy storage system?

A flywheel energy storage system consists of bearings, a rotating mass, a motor-generator, and a frequency inverter. Fig. 14.4 shows the main components of a flywheel energy storage system . The design of the components influences the overall efficiency, and can help in reducing power transmission losses.

How does a flywheel work?

A flywheel is driven by a reversible electric machine that initially operates as a motor to supply energy to the inertial mass. With the drive system disconnected, the flywheel stores energy in its rotation. Upon request, this latter will be transformed into electrical energy by the generator.

Why do flywheel energy storage systems have a high speed?

There are losses due to air friction and bearing in flywheel energy storage systems. These cause energy losses with self-discharge in the flywheel energy storage system. The high speeds have been achieved in the rotating body with the developments in the field of composite materials.