Wimshurst Machine

The Wimshurst Machine is an influence-type electrostatic generator that produces electrical charge through electrostatic induction rather than friction. This hand-operated physics laboratory equipment consists of rotating parallel discs, neutralizing rods, and collecting combs, providing an effective way to demonstrate the generation and accumulation of high-voltage static electricity. The two transparent discs are supported by rigid uprights and rotated by a hand crank through a belt-driven mechanism. They are made from heavy, rigid plastic with aluminium sheet sectors and have an approximate diameter of 300 mm. Two Leyden jars made from glass and aluminium foil are provided for storing the generated electrical charge. Cemented sectors and diagonal neutralizing brushes help distribute the appropriate charges across the discs, while additional brush pairs collect the accumulated charge and transfer it to the storage capacitors. Spark-gap electrodes are connected to the brushes, allowing visible high-voltage sparks to be produced as the discs rotate. The unit includes two swinging discharge arms with insulated handles and is mounted on a polished wooden base. It provides a clear and engaging demonstration of how a Wimshurst machine generates and stores high electrostatic voltage. Manufactured by Atico Export India for physics laboratory applications.

• Generator Type: Hand-operated influence machine based on electrostatic induction.
• Main Components: Rotating parallel discs, neutralizing rods, and collecting combs.
• Discs: Two transparent, heavy-duty rigid plastic discs fitted with aluminium sectors.
• Disc Diameter: Approximately 300 mm.
• Drive Mechanism: Hand crank with belt-driven disc rotation.
• Leyden Jars: Two capacitors made from glass and aluminium foil for storing generated charge.
• Charge Storage: Cemented metal foil sectors collect and retain small electrical charges.
• Neutralizing Brushes: Diagonal brushes positioned on the front and rear sides for proper charge distribution.
• Collecting Brushes: Two additional brush pairs collect the accumulated charge and transfer it to the storage capacitors.
• Spark Gap: Brushes connected to spark-gap electrodes for visible high-voltage discharge.
• Discharge Arms: Two swinging discharge arms with insulated handles.
• Base: Complete assembly mounted on a polished wooden base.
• Demonstration: Provides a clear visual understanding of electrostatic induction, charge accumulation, and high-voltage generation.