DESIGN OF LOW-COST FLYWHEEL ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS

摘要

Energy storage systems based on composite flywheel technology have traditionally been considered for applications where a high power capacity is required. In this context, high- performance flywheel systems frequently outperform conventional energy storage systems such as electrochemical cells. However, costs for flywheel systems have remained comparatively high, which is a major impediment for a broader acceptance of this technology, for example, for use in small-scale renewable energy systems and the transportation sector. In response to this limitation, design studies that are driven by cost considerations have been performed on flywheel systems with composite rotors. This paper highlights design parameters for the rotor as well as system components that yield cost-effective and energy-efficient flywheel units. Included in this study are aspects concerning the manufacturing, experimental validation and operation of flywheel systems.