Flywheel for energy storage, Phase 3

The project comprises 5 subtasks: Task 1. Performance tests of the flywheel rotor as manufactured and assembled in its vacuum containment. The power and loss characteristics of the flywheel will be established together with the thermal and mechanical loading of the rotor. Task 2. A high temperature superconductor in connection with permanent magnets is a potential candidate for low-loss bearings for application together with flywheel energy storage systems. Studies of candidate materials/materials combinations will be performed, and the implications for magnetic bearings will be investigated. Task 3. Study of motor/generator systems and converter technology. The motor/generator design for flywheel storage application will be studied, and emphasis will be given to suitable new materials for magnets. Frequency converter power capacity and other characteristics related to the transfer of the power to a public network will be studied, and recommendations for the design and operation strategies given Task 4. The economic and technical implications of flywheel storage systems when incorporated in electrical network will be studied. Task 5. The safety issues for flywheel systems. Both passive means (containment) and active (construction features) will be addressed