Physics Of The Granite Sphere Fountain

Pressurized water flows between the sphere and socket creating a mechanical hydrostatic bearing that is nearly frictionless.

Physics of the granite sphere fountain.

A striking example of levitation is encountered in the kugel fountain where a granite sphere sometimes weighing over a ton is kept aloft by a thin film of flowing water. In this paper we explain the working principle behind this levitation. Accepted 20 june 2014. What makes a granite sphere fountain work.

Physics of the granite sphere fountain. Shop our best selection of sphere fountains to reflect your style and inspire your outdoor space. We show that the fountain can be viewed as a giant ball bearing and thus forms a prime example of lubrication theory. The sphere turns in any direction by hand or rotates horizontally if left to float by itself.

Burgers centre for fluid dynamics university of twente p o. Custom etching engraving on the sphere and base are available as well. Many colors of granite are offered. Box 217 7500 ae enschede the netherlands ko van der weele department of mathematics university of patras 26500 patras greece received 22 may 2013.

Even though it might look like a physical impossibility the physics behind a rotating granite sphere fountain is perfectly logical. Imagine thousands of pounds floating on a thin layer of water. In this paper we explain the working principle behind this levitation. Find the perfect patio furniture backyard decor at hayneedle where you can buy online while you explore our room designs and curated looks for tips ideas inspiration to help you along the way.

One of the greatest fountain sculptures available in the world. A kugel fountain also called a floating sphere fountain or by the pleonasmic name kugel ball is a water feature or sculpture where a sphere sits in a fitted hollow in a pedestal and is supported by aquaplaning on a thin film of water. Physics of the granite sphere fountain jacco h. A striking example of levitation is encountered in the kugel fountain where a granite sphere sometimes weighing over a ton is kept aloft by a thin film of flowing water.

American journal of physics american journal of physics volume 82 1029 1039. Ko van der.