Design optimization of a rotating flywheel under high centrifugal forces using response surface method

Abstract

Flywheel is a mechanical device specifically designed to efficiently store rotational energy. Flywheels resist changes in rotational speed by their moment of inertia. In automotive clutch system, flywheel rotates at high speed under the influence of rotational force which may result in severe crack. In this study, finite element analysis was used to predict equivalent stress of the flywheel at different rotational speed. Taking 8000 rpm as the maximum rotational speed, the layout of the flywheel was then modified. This is done not only to reduce the maximum equivalent stress, but also reduce the mass of the flywheel. The comparison between the original layout of the flywheel and the modified one is shown in this work.