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History of Science Museum

Plate Electrostatic Machine, Early 19th Century

Inventory Number 75522


Acknowledgement: © History of Science Museum, University of Oxford, inv.75522

Item type
Object
Provenance
Purchased from Roger Warner, Antiques
Physical material
Wood
Glass
Copper Alloy
Iron
Dimensions
Height: 687mm Width: 510mm Depth: 270mm Weight: 7.5kg
Inventory No
75522
Accession Number
1963-22

Description

Copper alloy "U" shaped bar which terminates with a bar at a right angle with three sharp spikes protruding from one side, "U" shaped bar has central glass column. Copper alloy attachment pin with spherical handle. Bar and pin are separate from main device. Main device comprises a large glass circular disc held in place by a copper alloy axel with a turning handle, all in a wooden frame, on the base there is a glass rod with a copper alloy cap and rod at the top. When constructed the plate machine collectors are linked to the prime conductor by the "U" shaped frame. Part of W. & S. Jones electrostatic cabinet.