Crackle, Spark, and Flash!
The classic high voltage generator - with limited current for safe experiments! For many people this machine is the most vivid memory of their physics classes at school. Everybody is fascinated by the crackling flashes of lightning that appear between the electrodes when the crank on the back is turned.
Two counter-rotating acrylic discs with aluminium segments produce static electricity of up to 70,000 volts that is stored in two Leyden jars made from PVC and aluminium foil. The Leyden jars are discharged via two spherical electrodes, producing bright sparks. The capacity of the Leyden jars is limited by design, so that the produced electricity is completely harmless (rather like the light electric shock one receives sometimes when touching a door knob).
A fantastic kit!
This electrostatic induction machine was invented in 1880 by James Wimshurst (1832 - 1903). Wimshurst was an English naval engineer and inventor, who developed a special interest in electricity and how to produce it. His machines were the first to make possible continuous currents at very high voltages. These were necessary for the first x-ray machines, for example.
An Electric Amusement
Other electrostatic generators had been used since the early 1700s to amuse members of high society, for example with the "electric kiss": the gentleman who dared to kiss a charged lady was payed back with an electric shock.
Harmless Voltage
The AstroMedia Wimshurst Machine can produce voltages of up to 70,000V and sparks of 5 cm length. Nevertheless, it is completely safe to touch the machine. The capacity of the two Leiden flasks is small enough so that the energy of the discharges is well below the legal limit.
Safety First
Never use the machine in the vicinity of flammable fluids or gases. The sparks could cause an explosion. Children should not operate the machine without adult supervision. Although the sparks can not cause any physical harm, they might nevertheless frighten a child unexpectedly.
Below you can download the instructions for this kit.
