Question

The primary function of the flywheel is:

1. To maintain the constant speed of rotation of the crankshaft when the load on the engine increases
2. To absorb energy during these periods of crank rotation when the turning moment is less than the resisting points
3. To limit the fluctuations of speed during each cycle
4. To maintain constant speed of rotation of the crank shaft when the load on the engine decreases

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 3 : To limit the fluctuations of speed during each cycle

Explanation:

Flywheel

A flywheel is a heavy rotating body which acts as a reservoir of energy. It acts as a bank of energy between the energy source and machinery. Energy stored in a flywheel is in the form of kinetic energy.

Functions of flywheel

• It is used to store energy when available and supply it when required.
• To reduces speed fluctuations during each cycle.
• To reduce the power capacity of electric motor or engine.

   

The flywheel does not maintain a constant speed, it simply reduces the fluctuation of speed. It does not control the speed variations caused by the varying load. Governor regulates the mean speed of an engine when there are variations in the load.