Calculating flywheel inertia involves using the formula I=1/2(mass*radius²), but for complex shapes, each part must be analyzed separately. The discussion highlights a project aiming to use a 1kW motor, belt pulleys, and a flywheel to generate 4kW of power, which is deemed impractical due to energy conservation laws. Participants emphasize that while a flywheel can store energy for short bursts, it cannot continuously provide more power than the input. Concerns are raised about the feasibility of using a plastic bicycle flywheel for this purpose, as it may not withstand the required energy storage. Ultimately, the project needs significant reconsideration regarding its design and energy requirements.
Flywheels are to store excess energy in part of a cyclic process and to release the stored energy in the next phase, not to supply continuous energy like a prime mover