Quick Answer:The Van de Graaff Generator (motor or hand driven) is cranked by hand to demonstrate static electricity, or powered from a laboratory DC supply of up to 12 V. It is rated at 400 kV, with a 23 cm dome.
Last updated: 18 October 2026
Key Features
Supplied hand crank gives the user control of belt speed and charge.
Can also run from a laboratory DC power supply up to 12 V.
Rated 400 kV.
Charge produced depends on how hard and how long the crank is turned.
Technical Specifications
Specification
Value
Rating
400 kV
Drive
Supplied hand crank, or DC supply up to 12 V
Dimensions
63 x 25 x 25 cm
Dome diameter
23 cm
Weight
5.68 kg
How It Is Used
Students turn the crank to charge the dome and find that the harder and longer they crank, the more charge builds up, giving a hands-on feel for static electricity. For longer demonstrations it can be run from a laboratory power supply instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Van de Graaff Generator (motor or hand driven) need mains power?
No. It can be cranked by hand with the supplied crank, or powered from a laboratory DC power supply of up to 12 V.