Flywheel: meaning, definitions and examples
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flywheel
[ ˈflaɪˌwiːl ]
mechanical device
A flywheel is a mechanical device designed to efficiently store rotational energy. It is typically used to smooth out the delivery of power from a motor to a machine. Flywheels can also act as energy storage devices in applications like regenerative braking systems in vehicles. They are crucial in various mechanical systems, helping to stabilize performance and ensure a consistent power output, contributing to overall energy efficiency.
Synonyms
energy storage, momentum wheel, rotary store
Examples of usage
- The car's flywheel helps to maintain a steady engine speed.
- Flywheels are used in some power plants to improve energy output.
- The engineers installed a flywheel to enhance the machine's performance.
- In cycling, a flywheel can provide a more consistent workout.
Translations
Translations of the word "flywheel" in other languages:
🇵🇹 volante
🇮🇳 फ्लाईव्हील
🇩🇪 Schwungrad
🇮🇩 roda terbang
🇺🇦 маховик
🇵🇱 koło zamachowe
🇯🇵 フライホイール
🇫🇷 volant d'inertie
🇪🇸 volante
🇹🇷 flywheel
🇰🇷 플라이휠
🇸🇦 دولاب الطيران
🇨🇿 setrvačník
🇸🇰 setrvačník
🇨🇳 飞轮
🇸🇮 vztrajnik
🇮🇸 flughjól
🇰🇿 ұшақ дөңгелегі
🇬🇪 ფრენის ბორბალი
🇦🇿 uçuş təkəri
🇲🇽 volante
Etymology
The term 'flywheel' originates from the combination of 'fly', meaning 'to move through the air' or 'to be in motion', and 'wheel', referring to the round object that revolves. The concept has been present since the early days of mechanical engineering, with the earliest usage of such devices recorded in the 15th century. Flywheels were primarily utilized in watermills and windmills, which needed stabilizing mechanisms to cope with variable energy inputs. Over centuries, the design and application of flywheels evolved, particularly during the Industrial Revolution, where they became essential in steam engines and machinery for storing energy and regulating speed. Today, their role has expanded into a variety of fields, including automotive and renewable energy systems, showcasing their enduring importance in mechanical systems.