Physics Of The Granite Sphere Fountain

What makes a granite sphere fountain work.

Physics of the granite sphere fountain. One of the greatest fountain sculptures available in the world. Accepted 20 june 2014. 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. Shop our best selection of sphere fountains to reflect your style and inspire your outdoor space.

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. 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. Snoeijer physics of fluids group and j m.

Box 217 7500 ae enschede the netherlands ko van der weele department of mathematics university of patras 26500 patras greece received 22 may 2013. Imagine thousands of pounds floating on a thin layer of water. Burgers centre for fluid dynamics university of twente p o. Ko van der.

We show that the fountain can be viewed as a giant ball bearing and thus forms a prime example of lubrication theory. Pressurized water flows between the sphere and socket creating a mechanical hydrostatic bearing that is nearly frictionless. Custom etching engraving on the sphere and base are available as well. The sphere turns in any direction by hand or rotates horizontally if left to float by itself.

In this paper we explain the working principle behind this levitation. 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 rotating sphere no matter how heavy it is is actually supported by aqua planing on a thin film of water. We do produce a smaller version of our giant stone sphere fountains but there is a minimum order of 2 500 plus shipping.

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.