A drive system for the PirouetteTM kinetic energy storage system

Pirouette^TM is a heavy cylindrical flywheel of wound carbon-fibre composite rotated at high speeds to store kinetic energy. To transfer energy in and out of the flywheel requires an integrated motor/generator coupled to suitable power electronics. This paper looks at the aspects of the design for a drive system that can operate the machine with the desired performance characteristics over its defined working range. The drive system is based on a DC/AC inverter. The current and phase angle are controlled using a microcontroller.