Van de Graaff Generator (Large)
by Edu-lab
The Generator consists of a conducting sphere (the dome) supported by a Plexiglas pillar and a rubber belt driven by an electric motor concealed in the metal base. Static electrical charge is produced by friction between this band and two rollers, one of polythene, the other of Plexiglas. The charge is removed from the belt by a metal gauze and stored in the dome.
The electric motor is driven from the mains supply, using a three-wire cable. The base is fitted with a 4mm diameter socket which can be used either for supporting a conducting sphere (fitted with a cranked rod support) or for a wire connection to a separate conducting sphere (fitted on a Plexiglas rod). A dust cover is provided to keep the Van de Graff free from dust when not in use.