Technology

Day 17 of my little photo challenge - technology.

Today's subject is the electric motor from our old washing machine. Due to lockdown we could not get the old machine collected so I thought it would be an interesting project to take it apart with the boys and see what's what.

Mostly empty space as it turns out but two heavy masses within, lots of plastic tubing and a nice drum, which has been re-purposed as a fire pit.

We make electric motors in physics lessons at school. It's one of the most satisfying things to see a motor kit you have constructed flickering into life. So much depends on careful adherence to the instructions and a big dose of patience and resilience. It's a great practical to find out who has those qualities.

Once it's going and you see the blue sparks flicking off the contacts it's very satisfying.

If you are in any doubt whether you should use Calgon you should take a look at the furred up elements in our old machine. Yuck!

If you consider how many modern devices rely on the electric motor you'll understand how important they are. Simple principle, so many applications.