Centrifugal Force and Angular Velocity
Product Code : EL-TOMP-11418
Quick Answer: The Centrifugal Force and Angular Velocity apparatus spins a mechanism with three balance arms on a motor-driven turntable while a sensor measures the centrifugal force on a selected mass. The outer arms take masses at any of five radial positions.
Last updated: October 2026
Key Features
- Three balance arms: two outer arms hold the test masses, the central arm holds balancing masses
- Selection of masses supplied, fitted at any of five radial positions
- Sensors measure rotational velocity and the centrifugal force on the mass
- Electric motor and belt drive the turntable clockwise or anticlockwise at variable speed
- Motor control with direction, coarse and fine speed adjustment and press-to-stop
- Clear dome with an interlock that cuts motor power
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Arms | Three; two outer for masses, one central for balance masses |
| Mass positions | Five radial positions |
| Drive | Electric motor and belt to turntable, both directions, variable speed |
| Display | Multiline: speed in rev/min and rad/s |
| Guard | Clear dome with interlock |
About This Product
Students set a mass at a chosen radius, run the turntable at several speeds and measure the centrifugal force, then compare it with the force calculated from mass, radius and angular velocity. Balancing the test mass with an opposite mass on the central arm keeps vibration from spoiling the force readings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the central arm carry masses?
It holds equal and radially opposite masses to balance the test mass, which prevents vibrations that would affect the force measurement.
Can students change masses while it is guarded?
The clear dome lets students see the mechanism rotating, with an interlock that shuts off motor power, while still giving access to change the masses and their positions.
Related: Theory of Machines Products, Coriolis Force Apparatus, Whirling of Shafts and Critical Speed Apparatus and Simple and Compound Pendulums.
For a quotation on the Centrifugal Force and Angular Velocity, contact Educational Instrument.
