What is the typical factor of safety for cast iron flywheels?

The typical factor of safety for cast iron flywheels is generally established within the range of 10 to 13. This range provides a safe margin to account for uncertainties such as material defects, variations in loading conditions, and dynamic stresses that can occur during operation.

The factor of safety is crucial for flywheels, as they are subjected to significant forces and may experience fatigue over time. Cast iron, while having a good balance of strength and brittleness, requires a careful approach to design in order to ensure reliability and safety in service. By selecting a factor of safety in this range, engineers can ensure that the flywheel's structural integrity is maintained even under maximum expected loads or unforeseen operational conditions.

In this context, a factor of safety that exceeds the typical range could lead to overdesign and unnecessary weight or costs, while a factor below this range may compromise safety and reliability. The selected range reflects commonly accepted engineering practices within the industry.