| abstract |
A compressed-air energy storage system according to an embodiment of the present invention is a reversible mechanism for compressing and expanding air, one or more compressed air storage tanks, a control system, one or more heat exchangers, and, in certain embodiments of the invention, It consists of a motor generator. Reversible air compressor-expanders use mechanical power to compress air (when acting as a compressor) and convert energy stored in the compressed air into mechanical energy (when acting as an expander). In a particular embodiment, the compressor-expander consists of one or multiple stages, each stage consisting of a pressure vessel (pressure cell) partially filled with water or other liquid. In some embodiments, the pressure vessel is in communication with one or more cylinder devices to exchange air and liquid with the cylinder chamber (s). The operation of a suitable valve under electronic control allows the entry of air between the pressure cell and the cylinder device. |