Study of flywheel energy storage for space stations. Final Report

Technical Report · Wed Feb 01 00:00:00 EST 1984

OSTI ID:6775135

Gross, S

The potential of flywheel systems for space stations using the Space Operations Center (SOC) as a point of reference is discussed. Comparisons with batteries and regenerative fuel cells are made. In the flywheel energy storage concept, energy is stored in the form of rotational kinetic energy using a spinning wheel. Energy is extracted from the flywheel using an attached electrical generator energy is provided to spin the flywheel by a motor, which operates during sunlight using solar array power. The motor and the generator may or may not be the same device. Flywheel energy storage systems have a very good potential for use in space stations. This system can be superior to alkaline secondary batteries and regenerable fuel cells in most of the areas that are important in spacecraft applications. Of special impotance relative to batteries, are high energy density (lighter weight), longer cycle and operating life, and high efficiency which minimizes the amount of orbital makeup fuel required. In addition, flywheel systems have a long shelf life, give a precise state of charge indication, have modest thermal control needs, are capable of multiple discharges per orbit, have simple ground handling needs, and have the potential for very high discharge rate. Major disadvantages are noted.

• Research Organization: Boeing Co., Seattle, WA (USA)
• OSTI ID: 6775135
• Report Number(s): N-84-23028; NASA-CR-171780
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

25 ENERGY STORAGE
FLYWHEEL ENERGY STORAGE
COMPARATIVE EVALUATIONS
EFFICIENCY
ELECTRIC BATTERIES
FLYWHEELS
KINETIC ENERGY
REGENERATIVE FUEL CELLS
SPACECRAFT POWER SUPPLIES
DIRECT ENERGY CONVERTERS
ELECTROCHEMICAL CELLS
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
ENERGY
ENERGY STORAGE
EQUIPMENT
FUEL CELLS
MECHANICAL ENERGY STORAGE EQUIPMENT
POWER SUPPLIES
STORAGE
250500* - Energy Storage- Flywheels