The difference between flywheel energy storage and motor

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.

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.

What type of motor is used in a flywheel energy storage system?

Permanent-Magnet Motors for Flywheel Energy Storage Systems The permanent-magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) and the permanent-magnet brushless direct current (BLDC) motor are the two primary types of PM motors used in FESSs. PM motors boast advantages such as high efficiency, power density, compactness, and suitability for high-speed operations.

How can flywheels be more competitive to batteries?

The use of new materials and compact designs will increase the specific energy and energy density to make flywheels more competitive to batteries. Other opportunities are new applications in energy harvest, hybrid energy systems, and flywheel’s secondary functionality apart from energy storage.