M-CM 6: Forces in circular motion: model of steam engine fly-ball governor

PIRA: Unknown

Equipment: electric motor with variable speed output, model of governor. The motor is in either Set 4, Cabinet 2, Shelf 2 or Set 17, Cabinet 2, Shelf 1. The governor model can be found in Set 8, Cabinet 2, Shelf 2.

Procedure: As the speed of the fly-balls is incresed they move out to larger circular paths thus raising the base of the linkage on the main drive shaft. The motion of this base can be used to open or close the steam valve supplying the engine with steam (in the real thing) and hence regulate the speed of the engine.