Geometry Modification of Flywheels and its Effect on Energy Storage

This paper examines the influence of various geometric configurations of flywheels on kinetic energy storage performance using finite element analysis. Historically flywheels have been used in various applications. From such applications as pottery wheels to steam engines, flywheels have been used to store mechanical energy. Currently, in the ever expanding world of green energy development, flywheel energy storage systems provide an alternative source of energy storage that does not harm the surrounding environment. But when it comes to overall efficiency, e.g., manufacturing, reduced energy loss, in providing energy to the public, there is always a need for a more cost effective energy storage system. As such, this paper analyzes various geometric configurations of flywheels for the purposes of utilization as an energy storage source alternative. In particular, this is focused on the fact that reducing the amount of materials needed to produce the greatest amount of energy, i.e., high energy density, is needed for a flywheel energy storage system. In the analysis, the key parameters for each flywheel configuration are considered to examine the flywheel energy storage performance. These parameters are polar moment of inertia for determining the energy capacity of the flywheel, the shape factor for each cross section and maximum stress in the flywheel with its corresponding maximum angular velocity for each cross section. With all analytical results in terms of those parameters, an optimal flywheel system will be determined.