Appalachian Skies Media owns and operates specialized high-voltage machines used to produce electrostatic phenomena (static electricity). We own two Van de Graaff generators (large and small) and a Wimshurst machine, devices that are great attention-grabbers at conventions, trade shows, science expositions and educational functions. Our electrostatic machines are identical to the models found in the nation's top science museums and university physics laboratories. These machines can generate up to 400,000 volts and be used to perform hair-raising tricks, create intense, bright and loud 'miniature lightning' sparks up to 8" long, and much more.

Our machines are available for individual rental or on-site demonstrations by our staff, experienced in the science of electrostatics. Call us at 304-346-7359 for information and availability.

Rental and Demonstration Rates

Machines are rented from our Charleston, West Virginia office. Demonstration rates apply for the Charleston, West Virginia metropolitan area. Travel/mileage fees apply for demonstration locations farther than 45 miles from downtown Charleston, West Virginia.

Large 400kV Van de Graaff Generator Powered, 3' tall, 12" diameter dome $139/day Small 200kV Van de Graaff Generator Powered, 17" tall, 6.5" diameter dome $89/day Wimshurst Machine Hand-cranked, 10" tall $89/day Fees are due prior to rental period. Renter responsible for any and all loss or damage. Release of liability agreement required. Machines are rented on first-come, first-served basis. Please call 304-346-7359 for scheduling and availability.

Disclaimers and Safety Information

Sparks, discharges and accumulated charge from the Van de Graaff generator and Wimshurst machine are harmless to persons in good health, but the following safety precautions must be followed:

• Persons with known or unknown heart or neurological conditions, epilepsy and/or pacemakers should not touch, operate or come in proximity to these generators. As a simple precaution, small children or pets should not be allowed to come in contact with sparks from these machines.
   
• Sparks from these machines will permanently damage or destroy any electronic circuit or device. These machines must be operated with a 'buffer zone' of at least 50 feet away from all electronic devices (and all associated connected cords, antennas and wires) such as computers, cameras, cell phones, telephones, radios, thermostats, clocks and watches. The Van de Graaff generators must not be operated within small rooms with computer, video and other electronic equipment. Powered generators must be used on fully grounded outlets only. A dedicated earth ground connection separate from the electrical wiring should be used with the Van de Graaff generators as an extra precaution against surges. Surge protectors must be in use inline with the generator's power cord AND with all computers and electronic appliances and devices operating on the same circuit as the generator. It is the operator's responsibility to assure that all individuals approaching the generators have taken precautions to protect their personal electronics.
   
• We recommend the use of a portable power generator to electrically isolate the Van de Graaff machines from electrical circuits containing computers, servers, electronics and other sensitive devices.
   
• Persons coming in contact with the generators will contain a residual charge buildup on their skin surface, and must discharge themselves by touching a grounded object before resuming contact with any other persons or electronic devices.
   
• These machines should only be operated by adults. Children must be under adult supervision when coming in contact with the generators and sparks.
   
• Powered machines must not be left running unattended.
   
• Rental and demonstration agreements with Appalachian Skies require that the client be familiar with all safety precautions and assume all legal liability for the safe operation of these machines.
   
• Warning placards (supplied with our generators) outlining this safety information must be placed prominently around the perimeter of the generators' operating area AND immediately on the table(s) supporting the generators.