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I have been using the standard Wabash Instruments Van de Graaff for years and
find them to be very reliable. This is the 400,000 volt model that you find
in all the science supply catalogs, but you can also purchase them from the
manufacturer at:
Wabash Instruments
300 Olive Street
Wabash IN 46992
(260)563-8406 Fax: (260)563-8400
As long as you maintain it properly, it will almost work under water, which
is important if you are unloading gear in the rain. Wabash will also sell you
replacement parts, so if the dome gets damaged, you can buy a new dome
instead of an entire machine.
They are also very reliable. As long as you keep them clean, dry and
undamaged, they run forever. Have a replacement belt available, as that will wear
out, but they are cheap. They have a shelf life of about 6 months, so don't
buy too many.
Whichever model you get, don't buy all of the demo gadgets to go with it
(discharge spheres, plumes, etc.). You can make much better demos yourself, and
the entire set will cost you less than $20.
If you have other questions, you are welcome to contact me off list anytime.
Robert Krampf
Robert Krampf's Science Education Company
www.krampf.com
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