Schwungrädern

Schwungrad is a German term that translates to flywheel in English. A flywheel is a mechanical device, usually a disc or a wheel, that stores rotational energy. Its primary purpose is to smooth out the delivery of power from an intermittent source, such as a reciprocating engine, or to store energy for later use. The inertia of the flywheel resists changes in its rotational speed. This makes it useful in applications where a consistent speed is desired, despite fluctuations in the input power.

Flywheels are commonly found in engines, where they help to carry the crankshaft through the non-power strokes, ensuring a smoother rotation and reducing vibrations. They are also used in machinery like punch presses, where they store energy during the motor's running cycle and release it rapidly during the pressing operation. In wind turbines, flywheels can be used to store excess energy generated during high winds for later release during calm periods. The design of a flywheel, including its mass and distribution, is crucial for its effectiveness. Heavier and larger flywheels have greater inertia and are thus more effective at smoothing out speed variations.