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.

How does a flywheel work?

Here’s a breakdown of the process: Energy Absorption: When there’s surplus electricity, such as when the grid is overproducing energy, the system uses that excess power to accelerate the flywheel. This energy is stored as kinetic energy, much like how the figure skater speeds up their spin by pulling in their arms.

What is flywheel energy storage system (fess)?

Flywheel Energy Storage System (FESS) is an electromechanical energy storage system which can exchange electrical power with the electric network. It consists of an electrical machine, back-to-back converter, DC link capacitor and a massive disk.

How does a flywheel store energy?

The flywheel, made of durable materials like composite carbon fiber, stores energy in the form of rotational kinetic energy. Here’s a breakdown of the process: Energy Absorption: When there’s surplus electricity, such as when the grid is overproducing energy, the system uses that excess power to accelerate the flywheel.

How to connect flywheel energy storage system (fess) to an AC grid?

To connect the Flywheel Energy Storage System (FESS) to an AC grid, another bi-directional converter is necessary. This converter can be single-stage (AC-DC) or double-stage (AC-DC-AC). The power electronic interface has a high power capability, high switching frequency, and high efficiency.

Why are flywheel energy storage systems made with high-strength steel?

From a cost perspective, flywheel energy storage systems made with high-strength steels are ideal for maximizing energy per dollar spent. High-strength steel flywheels offer high energy density (energy per volume) because of their high mass density. Additionally, they outperform composite materials in terms of thermal conductivity and availability.