Hertzian Contact Apparatus
Model Number: TE98
A self-contained bench-mounted unit for practical examination of Hertz’s theories of contact between materials.
Overview
The Hertzian Contact Apparatus is a self-contained and easy-to-use unit that shows the nature of contact between two surfaces. It compares experiment results with predictions based on Hertz’s original theories. This helps engineers to predict contact areas between common machined surfaces and materials, for example different types of bearings. The apparatus has two pads with curved contact surfaces. The upper pad (made of a transparent plastic material) has a compound radii. The lower pad (made of an opaque flexible material) has a simple radius. A hand-operated hydraulic pump and cylinder force the two pads together. Students may rotate the lower pad, a pointer shows the angle of rotation. This allows a study of the effect of different relative curvatures. A contact shape (or ‘zone’) forms between the pads. The contact zone may be circular or elliptical, depending on the relative angular position of the two pads. Supplied is a transparent scale to measure the contact shape and angle. Locknuts on the threads of the pump work to limit the maximum pressure, preventing damage to the equipment.
Features
- Bench-mounted, self-contained unit
- Shows the nature of contact between two surfaces
- Compares experimental results with Hertz’s original theories
- Upper transparent plastic pad with compound radii
- Lower opaque flexible pad with simple radius
- Hand-operated hydraulic pump and cylinder apply force between the pads
- Rotating lower pad with pointer to show angle of rotation
- Circular or elliptical contact zone depending on pad position
- Transparent scale to measure contact shape and angle
- Locknuts limit maximum pressure to help prevent equipment damage
Specifications
- Mounting: Bench mounted
- Configuration: Self-contained unit
- Upper pad: Transparent plastic material with compound radii
- Lower pad: Opaque flexible material with a simple radius
- Load application: Hand-operated hydraulic pump and cylinder
- Adjustment: Rotating lower pad with angle pointer
- Contact zone: Circular or elliptical depending on relative angular position of the pads
- Measurement: Transparent scale for contact shape and angle
- Protection: Locknuts on pump threads to limit maximum pressure
Learning Outcomes
- The effect of varied pressure with constant angle
- The effect of varied angle (different relative curvature) with constant pressure
Add On Products
Items Included
- Transparent scale for measuring contact shape and angle