Printable Van de Graaff Generator

thingiverse

Create a small Van de Graaff generator using common household parts with this printable design. The MakerBot is currently uncooperative, but the prototype was made from PVC pipe and generated 6kV sparks. Use OpenSCAD to generate .stl files for printing, and follow the instructions provided. Acquire a pop can, remove its top, and use it as a charge collector. Obtain a small glass tube by heating a fuse over a candle flame. Assemble the generator by wrapping the printed wheel in electrical tape, securing it on the motor shaft, and attaching the motor to the glass tube. Stretch a rubber band between the wheel and tube, insert an axle through the glass tubes, and position two wire brushes to collect charge. Connect the top brush to the pop can and the bottom brush to a ground source. Power up the generator and test it by observing hair standing on end near the can.