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home > Levitation Kit
magnetic levitation kit

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This simple electronic kit uses magnetic levitation to suspend small objects up to about 1/2 ounce (15 Grams) or so in mid air.  This is an ideal Science Project for ages 12 and up!  Detailed 6 page instructions include theory and clear images.  See below to order either the complete kit of parts, or fully assembled and tested versions.

Assembled Levitation Kit circuit board

The air gap is about 3/8".  The electromagnet stabilizes the position of the suspended rare earth magnet(s) attached to the levitated object.  Feedback is provided by a linear Hall Effect sensor mounted under the electromagnet.  Once calibrated properly using the circuit board mounted control knob, suspended objects are stable after settling.  The knob can be used to adjust the air gap by about 1/4".

NOTE!  I am often asked if the design can be modified to lift more weight, or if the gap can be increased.  The answer is NO.  There are inherent limitations due to the size of the electromagnet and how quickly its field can be switched.  The most weight that can be lifted with this type of design is about 1 ounce (30 grams).  The air gap can be extended up to 1/2" (13mm) depending on weight.

Getting an object in place is relatively easy. It is an eerie feeling when you offer the item up to the "sweet spot" as the controls "grab" the magnet - pulling it slightly into position.  It feels like some kind of science fiction force field.   Objects set spinning will continue to spin for several minutes!

If you don't see a video clip above, then click here to see it on YouTube.

The kit as supplied has a limited range of weight that it can lift which is no more than .5 ounce including the magnets.  Items like a ping pong ball would be too light, and extra weight would need to be added inside like more magnets or small washers.  The design requires that the magnet be at the top of the suspended object to keep the magnet from flipping over.

If power is turned off -- the magnet will drop away.  Returning it to position takes a little practice -- if you miss the "sweet spot" the magnet will go up and stick to the electromagnet above it.

Here's an interesting experiment to try.  Use a microphone to listen to the electronic signals in the electromagnet and hear weird sound effects:

SECURE ON-LINE ORDERING

SECURE ONLINE ORDERING:
Order the kit using your credit card, PayPal account, or eCHECK.

MAIL ORDER:
Click here to download my order form, and mail it with your Money Order or bank check.
SHIPPING:
 I ship from Maine via USPS Priority Mail in United States for
delivery in 1-3 days, $5.80 - $9.00 depending on weight.
Foreign shipping (outside the US), ships via USPS Global Priority Mail.  $28.00 - $35.00US depending on weight and country.  Delivery in 5-8 days.
Please include your phone number when placing order.

Email me if you have a question.
 ORDERS TYPICALLY SHIP WITHIN 24 HOURS OF PAYMENT.
You will receive an email confirmation when your order ships. 
All sales are final, no refunds or exchanges other than for damaged or missing parts.

 EDUCATIONAL DISCOUNT: 15% off for orders of more than 15 kits with 2 week notice.  I can custom configure kits per your request.  Sorry, no purchase orders.
Solution Graphics

Basic kit of parts
as pictured, includes detailed instructions
REQUIRES 12VDC at 200mA
- order separately below
 $39.75

The Kit includes all parts to make the electronic circuit, and includes the electromagnet, and 2 strong permanent magnets.

Please note that assembling this kit requires some basic knowledge of electronics, tools, and some previous experience soldering electronic kits.  Order the Assembled and Tested versions if you are not sure you are able to build the kit.

Fully assembled and tested
as pictured, includes detailed instructions
 REQUIRES 12VDC at 200mA
- order separately below
 $49.75

Fully assembled and tested
as pictured, includes detailed instructions
INCLUDES wall power supply
and 2 magnets
(runs on 120 Volt 60Hz)

$58.75


PARTS AND ACCESSORIES
other parts available by request

Neodymium high power magnet   Neodymium high power magnet

Cylindrical Neodymium magnets
 as pictured
(2 provided with each kit)
3/16" X 3/8" (5 X 10mm)
 $1.50 each

Electromagnet
 as pictured
60 Ohm coil
2700 turns of 33 gage wire
with a 2" bolt and nut
Coil measures 1" X 1 1/4"
(24 X 29mm)
 $9.00 each

12VDC 200mA power supply for Levitation Kit

Power supply
 as pictured
output: 12VDC 300mA
with 10 foot cord and switch
input: 120 Volt 60Hz
$15.00



INTERESTED IN MAGNETIC LEVITATION?
READ THIS EXCELLENT BOOK:
"Rising Force" by James D. Livingston

Packed with fascinating anecdotes about the colorful personalities who have “fought friction by fighting gravity,” the book maintains accuracy throughout while it entertains and informs technical and nontechnical readers alike. With so many new applications for magnetic levitation on the horizon, Rising Force is sure to retain its own magic for years to come.
 SEE  WHAT OTHER PEOPLE HAVE DONE WITH MY DESIGN
Detailed reports from engineers and students.

"Any sufficiently advanced technology
is indistinguishable from magic"
Arthur C. Clarke  



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