Education Centrifuge Apparatus

A base unit supports a mechanism that rotates under a clear dome. An electric motor turns a belt that turns a turntable under the mechanism. The motor works in clockwise and anticlockwise rotation and with variable velocity. A sensor measures the rotational velocity of the mechanism.

The mechanism has three balance arms. Two (the outside) arms hold any of a selection of masses (supplied) at any of five radial positions. A sensor measures the centrifugal force due to the selected mass as it rotates about the given radii. The other (central) arm holds equal and radially opposite masses to balance the first mass. This prevents unwanted vibrations, which would also affect measurement accuracy.

The clear dome includes an interlock that shuts off power to the motor. This allows students to see the mechanism rotating and use it in safety while still giving them access to change the masses and their positions.