Physics Of The Granite Sphere Fountain

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Physics of the granite sphere fountain. Even though it might look like a physical impossibility the physics behind a rotating granite sphere fountain is perfectly logical. Ko van der. Box 217 7500 ae enschede the netherlands ko van der weele department of mathematics university of patras 26500 patras greece received 22 may 2013. Custom etching engraving on the sphere and base are available as well.

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. We show that the fountain can be viewed as a giant ball bearing and thus forms a prime example of lubrication theory. The rotating sphere no matter how heavy it is is actually supported by aqua planing on a thin film of water. Burgers centre for fluid dynamics university of twente p o.

In this paper we explain the working principle behind this levitation. Physics of the granite sphere fountain. We do produce a smaller version of our giant stone sphere fountains but there is a minimum order of 2 500 plus shipping. Physics of the granite sphere fountain jacco h.

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. American journal of physics american journal of physics volume 82 1029 1039. What makes a granite sphere fountain work. Accepted 20 june 2014.

One of the greatest fountain sculptures available in the world. Many colors of granite are offered. Pressurized water flows between the sphere and socket creating a mechanical hydrostatic bearing that is nearly frictionless. 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.

The sphere turns in any direction by hand or rotates horizontally if left to float by itself. 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.