IEC Wilson's Cloud Chamber – Expansion Type, Without Sources

The IEC Wilson's Cloud Chamber (AP4660-001) is an expansion-type apparatus for demonstrating the visible tracks of alpha particles in school and laboratory physics. Alcohol vapour inside the chamber becomes supersaturated when the supplied hand-operated vacuum pump reduces the pressure. Vapour condenses along ionisation paths, revealing short cloud tracks when illuminated from the side.

Key Features

• Classical expansion-type cloud chamber with transparent acrylic cell and glass viewing window.
• Hand-operated, one-pull vacuum pump and hose supplied.
• Includes source support rod, puffer bottle with filter and tubing, spring clip and mounting rod.
• Support rod can raise the chamber for viewing or hold a suitable light source.
• Designed for observation of alpha-particle tracks using a suitable source (sold separately).
• 4 mm terminals allow an optional 200–600 V DC ion-clearing field when operated by suitably trained personnel.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: IEC (Industrial Equipment & Control)
• Model: AP4660-001
• Type: Expansion cloud chamber
• Dimensions: 120 × 110 × 65 mm (overall)
• Weight: 340 g
• Radioactive source: Not included
• Illumination lamp: Not included

Additional Equipment Required

A suitable alpha point source, side illumination (such as a microscope lamp or LED torch) and isopropyl or ethyl alcohol are required for the demonstration. The optional ion-clearing field requires a separate, appropriately rated DC power supply.

Important Safety Information

For laboratory or educational use under appropriate supervision only. Follow institutional radiation-source handling requirements and the manufacturer's instructions. Alcohol is flammable; keep away from ignition sources and avoid heating the chamber. High-voltage connections must be managed by suitably trained personnel. Do not overtighten the chamber screws. After use, remove the viewing window and allow the chamber to dry before storage.