The Hertzian Contact Apparatus is a self-contained and easy-to-use unit that shows the nature of contact between two surfaces. It compares experiment results with predictions based on Hertz’s original theories. This helps engineers to predict contact areas between common machined surfaces and materials, for example different types of bearings.

The apparatus has two pads with curved contact surfaces. The upper pad (made of a transparent plastic material) has a compound radii. The lower pad (made of an opaque flexible material) has a simple radius. A hand-operated hydraulic pump and cylinder force the two pads together. Students may rotate the lower pad, a pointer shows the angle of rotation. This allows a study of the effect of different relative curvatures.

A contact shape (or ‘zone’) forms between the pads. The contact zone may be circular or elliptical, depending on the relative angular position of the two pads. Supplied is a transparent scale to measure the contact shape and angle. Locknuts on the threads of the pump work to limit the maximum pressure, preventing damage to the equipment.

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