Flyhjul

Flyhjul, also known as a flywheel, is a mechanical device designed to store rotational energy. It typically consists of a heavy rotating disk or wheel attached to a rotating shaft. The primary function of a flywheel is to smooth out power fluctuations in a system by absorbing excess energy when power is abundant and releasing it when power is needed. This is achieved through the principle of inertia. When a source of power applies torque to the flywheel, its rotational speed increases, storing kinetic energy in the rotating mass. Conversely, when the power demand from the system exceeds the immediate supply, the flywheel's stored energy is released, slowing its rotation and providing additional torque.

Flywheels are commonly found in various applications where a consistent and smooth rotational output is crucial. Examples include internal combustion engines, where they help to smooth out the intermittent power delivery from the combustion strokes, and in punch presses and stamping machines, where they store energy from a motor and release it in a short, powerful burst for the pressing operation. They are also used in regenerative braking systems for vehicles, capturing kinetic energy during deceleration and releasing it for acceleration. The effectiveness of a flywheel is determined by its mass and how that mass is distributed, with more mass further from the axis of rotation resulting in higher rotational inertia and greater energy storage capacity.