Product number: HFN6

The apparatus consists of a flywheel on a horizontal shaft carried in a pair of similar bearings, the flywheel being used to even out small variations in friction. The shaft is of mild steel, and interchangeable bearings in a range of materials are provided.

This experiment provides an opportunity to study journal bearing friction over a range of commonly used materials including a self lubricating sintered bronze. For comparison a ball or roller bearing is available to demonstrate the advantages of rolling rather than sliding contact.

Torque is applied by a loaded cord wrapped round the flywheel shaft. A set of calibrated weights and Load hanger is supplied for loading the flywheel.

Specifications and resources

Flywheel: Ø300 x 40mm thick; approximately 24kg
Journal Bearing materials: Cast Iron, Tufnel, Sintered bronze, ball bearings