Levistor:Measurement and analysis for high speed magnetic bearing production control

Energy storage is vital for ensuring that electrical supply and demand can be matched at all times, paving the way for a secure and sustainable decarbonised energy future. Much of this storage need is being is met pumped hydro and batteries, commonly Lithium Ion. However, for some applications with large numbers of charge cycles, flywheel technology offers a more cost effective and sustainable solution as compared to batteries. However, costs for this technology and running losses have historically been too high most products serving niche markets. By taking an innovative, design for low-cost manufacturing approach, Levistor's technology delivers stepwise cost and loss reduction.

To minimise running losses, Levistor employs two opposing magnets, levitating its high-speed rotor which stores the energy. The spinning magnet is subjected to massive stresses and, being brittle, is in danger of breaking up. Levistor has devised a cost effective and safe solution to avoid this happening but, to roll this out with confidence, meticulous measurements and analysis and are needed. Levistor's A4I partners, the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and ASTUTE Centre of Excellence, will deliver this support having access to world leading specialists and equipment. This project's primary focus lies in conducting, thorough testing and analysis, development of a robust critical component along with a cost-effective quality assurance process. Addressing potential failure modes inherent in high-speed operations is paramount to instilling confidence in the technology's performance and longevity. This design should be even cheaper to produce than the original by incorporating the latest thinking in design for manufacture and quality control.

Levistor endeavours to be a global supplier of flywheel energy technology, making a significant contribution to provision of sustainable energy storage which, in turn, supports the wider sustainable energy system. The anticipated outcomes of this collaboration with extend beyond technological advancements; they embody a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and environmental stewardship within the energy storage industry. Through these collective efforts, Levistor and its partners strive to pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient energy future.