Wimshurst Electrostatics Machine – Classic Demonstration Apparatus (KS3+)

The Wimshurst Electrostatics Machine is a striking and reliable piece of demonstration equipment designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of electrostatics. Suitable for KS3 and above, this manually operated machine requires no electrical power and generates impressive visible sparks, making abstract concepts immediate, memorable, and engaging.

By turning the handle, two counter‑rotating insulated discs build up electrical charge, leading to regular discharge between the electrodes. Under suitable atmospheric conditions, sparks of up to 50mm in air can be produced, providing a clear visual demonstration of static electricity, charge separation, and electrical discharge.

Mounted on a polished wooden base for stability and portability, this classic apparatus combines durability with strong visual impact, making it ideal for teacher‑led demonstrations and science shows.

Key Features

• Suitable for KS3, KS4, and secondary science
• No electrical power required – manual operation
• Produces visible sparks up to 50mm under correct conditions
• Two high‑resistance plastic discs with aluminium sectors
• Discs mounted in rigid uprights and driven by a belt in opposite directions
• Includes two Leyden jars (condensers) made from Corning glass and aluminium foil
• Mounted on a polished wooden base for stability and easy transport
• Disc diameter: 200mm
• Durable construction for repeated classroom use

Ideal for School Physics Lessons

Perfect for introducing electrostatics in a highly visual and engaging way, the Wimshurst Machine allows students to observe phenomena that are otherwise difficult to appreciate through diagrams alone.

• Demonstrating the creation and build‑up of static electric charge
• Explaining electrical discharge and sparking
• Introducing capacitors using Leyden jars
• Supporting lessons on electric fields and charge separation
• Providing memorable whole‑class demonstrations

Visually impressive, robust, and easy to operate, the Wimshurst Electrostatics Machine is an excellent teaching aid that brings electrostatics to life and helps students develop a clear understanding of fundamental electrical concepts.