High Energy Density Composite Flywheel Program.

Abstract : A bi-directional composite flywheel was instrumented with strain gages and tested to destruction. The flywheel was designed to exhibit constant stress in both radial and circumferential directions for all radial positions. Strain gage data verified this design. The burst speed was 38,741 rpm representing a specific energy level of 32.3 Wh/lb. The flywheel was constructed of Kevlar composite, had an outside diameter of 19.5 in., an axial thickness of 1.5 in and weighed 18.6 lbs. Premature failure was initiated at the inside diameter by excessive pressure exerted by a metal hub. A polyarylate hub design, with test data, is presented to solve this problem. (Author)