Flywheel torque is the torque exerted by or on a flywheel, a rotating mechanical device used to store rotational energy. A flywheel smooths out the power output from an energy source, such as an engine, by balancing speed fluctuations and storing kinetic energy. Flywheels are commonly used in engines, power generation systems, and other mechanical setups where energy regulation and smooth operation are critical. The larger and heavier the flywheel, the more torque it can handle and store, which leads to smoother and more stable rotational energy. This is particularly useful in applications like power generators and engines, where consistent and regulated power output is needed.
How Torque Relates to a Flywheel
Flywheel Torque Generation - In an engine, the crankshaft rotates, and this rotation is transferred to the flywheel. As the flywheel spins, it stores energy in the form of rotational inertia. The torque on the flywheel is generated by the engine's pistons pushing against the crankshaft. The amount of torque exerted on the flywheel depends on the force applied by the engine and the radius of the flywheel.
Flywheel’s Role in Torque Regulation - The flywheel helps maintain smooth torque delivery by absorbing torque peaks and releasing energy during periods when the engine's torque output is lower. For instance, in a four-stroke internal combustion engine, torque production is uneven, and the flywheel helps smooth out these variations by acting as an energy buffer.
Flywheel Torque Formula |
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| \( \tau_f \;=\; \dfrac{ \dfrac{ m \cdot r^2 }{ 2 } }{ \alpha }\) |
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| Symbol | English | Metric |
| \( \tau_f \) (Greek symbol tau) = Flywheel Torque | \(lbf-ft\) | \(N-m\) |
| \( m \) = Flywheel Mass | \(lbm\) | \(kg\) |
| \( r \) = Flywheel Radius | \(ft\) | \(m\) |
| \( \alpha \) (Greek symbol alpha) = Angular Acceleration | \(deg \;/\; sec^2\) | \(rad \;/\; s^2\) |
