STORNETIC: Kinetic energy storage firm Stornetic is using InnoTrans 2016 to launch its EnWheel flywheel energy storage system for the transport sector, aimed primarily at urban rail, tram and metro operators.
The lineside storage unit uses a bank of high-speed flywheels to capture surplus regenerated braking energy and store it for reuse at periods of high demand, such as when several trains or LRVs may be accelerating away from a stop.
The technology was initially developed for the power generation sector; earlier this year Stadtwerk München put into service a DuraStor accumulator to act as a ‘virtual power plant’ and help stabilise its electricity supply network. Rated at up to 600 kVA at approximately 100 kWh, this unit incorporates 28 flywheels which can be accelerated up to 45 000 rev/min. The kinetic technology stores power as mechanical energy by accelerating the rotor; reversing the motor to act as a generator produces electricity as the rotor decelerates.
With electricity charges ‘a decisive cost factor’ for rail operators, Stornetic Managing Director Dr Rainer vor dem Esche believes the wayside storage device will help to reduce costs by cutting the peak power demand, as well as offering environmental benefits.
The EnWheel units are designed to operate at full capacity for more than a million charging cycles, and are made of materials that are fully recyclable.
Visit Stornetic in Hall 5.2, stand 104.
