TorqStor flywheel energy saver takes to the rails 17 December 2014

Ricardo has delivered the latest generation of its award-winning TorqStor high-speed flywheel energy storage technology to digital hydraulics specialist Artemis Intelligent Power.

The system is destined for use on the InnovateUK-funded DDflyTrain research project, with Bombardier Transportation, which aims to demonstrate the fuel-saving effectiveness of flywheel energy storage on diesel multiple unit trains.

"This latest generation of Ricardo's TorqStor technology is a breakthrough, in terms of cost reduction and light-weighting as well as in energy storage efficiency," comments Ricardo vice president of innovation David Rollafson.

"It can be integrated into mechanical, electrical or – as in the case of this first rail unit – an advanced hydraulic transmission system, providing a modular energy storage solution that scales from 250KJ to 4MJ," he adds.

TorqStor differs from other flywheel designs in its use of a permanent vacuum, said to saave both cost and weight.

This is made possible by its advanced magnetic gear system that enables the transmission of torque across a vacuum without the limitation of rotating seals or necessity for vacuum pumps.

"The delivery of the first TorqStor to be deployed for a railway application is a significant milestone," continues Rollafson.

"This game-changing technology offers transformative potential to reduce costs and save fuel across a range of applications from commercial on-highway trucks to mining and construction equipment."

We are actively seeking further opportunities to realise the benefits of TorqStor in new sectors."

Brian Tinham

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