Wimshurst Electrostatic Influence Machine

This electrostatic machine is made up of two coxial ebonite discs on which brushes made of metal wires rub. The discs can be rotated in opposite directions by means of a crank. Two metal rods. Electric arcs can thus be fired between the two balls by adjusting their spacing. Use: The machine was used for laboratory experiments and medical applications. It is now a museum piece but this type of machine is still used today for experiments at school level. James Wimshurst, 1832-1903, British physicist, invented the electrostatic influence machine which bears his name in 1883 and demonstrated that it was possible to disperse and reflect X-rays. (Source: Bordas Encyclopedia). Height: 76cm Length: 68 cm Depth: 32 cm Diameter: 60cm