Flywheel

A heavy rotating wheel used to smooth out the pulses of energy from an engine or other power source. It stores kinetic energy and releases it gradually, maintaining a more constant rotational speed. Flywheels are crucial in applications where a steady power supply is needed, absorbing energy during peak demand and releasing it during dips. This mechanism contributes to improved efficiency, reduces vibrations, and enhances the overall performance of mechanical systems. They are often found in engines, machinery, and energy storage systems.

Flywheel meaning with examples

• The old steam engine's massive flywheel spun with a rhythmic grace, smoothing out each piston stroke. Its steady rotation provided a remarkably consistent power output, ideal for the factory's heavy machinery. The engineers ensured the flywheel's maintenance for optimal performance.
• In a hybrid vehicle, the flywheel acts as a crucial component in the energy recovery system. It captures energy during braking, storing it as rotational momentum. That energy is then released to boost acceleration, resulting in superior fuel efficiency.
• The prototype energy storage system utilized a carbon fiber flywheel to store excess power generated by solar panels. This flywheel could then discharge the energy during periods of low sunlight, creating a reliable power grid.
• The precision machine tool relies on a sophisticated flywheel system to deliver consistent cutting power. The system dampens vibration and ensures high accuracy. The engineering team tuned the flywheel's inertia for the machining requirements.