Flywheel Energy Storage System with AMBs and Hybrid Backup Bearings

An AMB supported, 140 kW energy storage flywheel has been developed to provide 15 seconds of ride-through power and UPS service in conjunction with a diesel generator set. The flywheel, which operates ina vacuum, is supported by AMB to minimize bearing losses, and has a high power motor/generator coupled to an efficient power conversion module. As part of the flywheel module a backup bearing system to the AMB was developed and tested.