Quick Answer: The Maxwell Wheel is a 130 mm metal flywheel on a steel axle that hangs from two nylon cords and rolls down and up as the cords unwind and rewind. The cords adjust up to 800 mm, and the frame stands about 450 mm high.
Last updated: October 2026
Key Features
Machined metal flywheel, 130 mm diameter
Steel axle with suspension eyelets
Low-stretch nylon cords, adjustable up to 800 mm
Metal frame with anti-slip base
Overall about 450 mm (H) x 150 mm (W) x 420 mm (L)
Technical Specifications
Specification
Value
Flywheel
Machined metal, 130 mm diameter
Axle
Steel, with suspension eyelets
Cords
Nylon, adjustable up to 800 mm
Frame
Metal, anti-slip base
Overall size
Approx. 450 (H) x 150 (W) x 420 (L) mm
About This Product
As the wheel falls, potential energy turns into the kinetic energy of falling and spinning, and the wheel climbs back almost to its start as the cords rewind. Timing the descent lets students study energy conversion and work out the moment of inertia of the wheel.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long are the cords on the Maxwell Wheel?
The nylon suspension cords are adjustable up to 800 mm.
