* For reference, please see how a wimshurst actually works and how it is built: steampunkworkshop.com/how-build-wimshurst-influence-machine-part-1


Print all files, you will need a frame on each side (supportA and supportB 2x)

Print 48 sectors for 2 discs, glue 24 sectors together on the hub assembly, or use 2 acrylic rotors if you want a sturdier and precise rotor.

The bearings use copper BB Guns pellet (0.177 caliber).
You might have to adjust clearance of the bearings depending on your print quality!

Use an electric motor that fits the frame, I personally used an old HP printer motor.

Cut the sectors in aluminum tape using the SectorTemplate model.

Assemble the 2 collectors using copper wire, I used standard 14 gauge wire.
I used springs on the collectors, these collect the charge and bring them down to the capacitors (leyden jars).

Leyden jars are made using kapton tape. I am still testing the caps parameters, but I currently applied 3 layers of kapton on the outside of the leyden jars and 1 width of aluminum tape inside and outside, keeping clearance from top and bottom of the leyden jars. ABS plastic actually isn't that good an insulator, maybe this is due to the fact that extruded plastic is not 100% air tight?

I used "fondue" forks for the spark gap, I removed the fork and replaced it with a printed ball with aluminum tape on it. This is far from ideal, but I didn't have brass balls laying around, so I did it cheaply for the moment...

I also used 3 printer metal rollers as conductors spacing to connect spark gap and capacitor external plates.

The external plate connector should have brass balls on it too, to prevent charge leaking.

I have much leaking currently with this setup, so I am limited in spark length, I can have 2 inches sparks, but with a proper electrical setup, this could be much more improved!


I consider this as a proof of concept, more than a perfect machine, feel free to experiment!


Assembly should be straight forward from there.