The Flywheel Power Calculator helps estimate the mechanical power output or input of a rotating flywheel system based on torque and rotational speed. This tool is particularly important in applications where energy transfer, acceleration, or kinetic storage is involved, such as in hybrid vehicles, industrial motors, and power grid stabilizers. By calculating the power, engineers can design safer and more efficient systems.
This calculator is categorized under Rotational Power Calculators and is essential for evaluating performance in dynamic mechanical systems.
formula of Flywheel Power Calculator
Power (P) = Torque × Angular Velocity
P = τ × ω
Where:
P = Power (in watts, W)
τ = Torque (in newton-meters, N·m)
ω = Angular velocity (in radians per second)
To convert rotational speed in revolutions per minute (RPM) to angular velocity:
ω = (2 × π × RPM) / 60
This formula enables you to determine the power output by using the torque applied and the rotational speed of the flywheel.
Reference Table for Commonly Searched Terms
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Power (P) | Rate of energy transfer or conversion in the flywheel |
| Torque (τ) | Rotational force applied to the flywheel |
| Angular Velocity (ω) | Speed of rotation in radians per second |
| RPM | Revolutions per minute (input for angular velocity) |
| 1 horsepower (HP) | Equals approximately 746 watts |
| π | Approx. 3.1416 |
| 1 rad/s | Equals about 9.5493 RPM |
This table supports quick reference and helps avoid confusion with units or conversions.
Example of Flywheel Power Calculator
Scenario:
An industrial flywheel is rotating at 1500 RPM and delivering a torque of 12 N·m. What is its power output?
Step 1: Convert RPM to Angular Velocity
ω = (2 × π × 1500) / 60 = (2 × 3.1416 × 1500) / 60 ≈ 157.08 rad/s
Step 2: Apply the power formula
P = τ × ω = 12 × 157.08 ≈ 1884.96 watts
Result:
The flywheel delivers approximately 1885 watts, or about 1.89 kilowatts of mechanical power.
Most Common FAQs
Energy refers to the total capacity to do work stored in the flywheel (joules), while power measures how fast that energy is transferred or used (watts). This calculator helps compute power, not energy.
Yes, this calculator is highly relevant in regenerative braking applications, especially where torque and RPM values are known. It helps engineers optimize power recovery during deceleration.
Yes, as long as torque remains constant, increasing RPM (and thus angular velocity) will increase power. However, systems have physical limits, so always consider design constraints.xDoes increasing RPM increase power?