Flywheel energy storage
OverviewMain componentsPhysical characteristicsApplicationsComparison to electric batteriesSee alsoFurther readingExternal links
A typical system consists of a flywheel supported by rolling-element bearing connected to a motor–generator. The flywheel and sometimes motor–generator may be enclosed in a vacuum chamber to reduce friction and energy loss. First-generation flywheel energy-storage systems use a large steel flywheel rotating on mechanical bearings. Newer systems use carbon-fiber composite rotors