Tom Vales

Last week we had a nice switch up in the classroom. Scientist Tom Vales, the lab coordinator for the science department at Suffolk University and a 30 year mechanist introduced the class to 4 different devices regarding heat and thermal dynamics. It was a great way to visualize how electricity is conducted and hear a lecture from such an intelligent guest speaker. Mr. Vales introduced to us 4 different devices; the Tesla Coil, the Peltie Device, the Sterling Engine and the Mendocino Motor.

Mr. Vales brought in a homemade Tesla coil and performed a demonstration to us by holding different glass tubes up to it. The Tesla Coil can transmit radio frequency up to 7,000 volts, and is a wireless transmission energy device. This device is used to produce a high voltage, low current, and high frequency alternating power. It was invented to create wireless charges by Nicola Tesla around 1891. People don’t necessarily use them anymore, although they are seen in science museums and are used as a way to educate students on how creating long sparks can produce electricity.

The Peltie Device is a thermal cooling device by using two types of metal; copper and bismuth to create electricity. We can use this device to cool drinks and other things. The two forms a bond of heat and cooling. According to Mr. Vanes, this device is not very efficient.

The Sterling Engine is the device I found to be the most interesting of them all. Reverend Sterling created this device in 1816 when he invented this to replace what he thought to be the unsafe steam engines. The Sterling Engine is a heat engine operating by cyclic compression and expansion of air and other gases. All heat transfers to and from the working fluid through the engine wall.

I really enjoyed Mr. Vales presentation on the different electricity devices. He taught us a lot in a fun and energetic way that kept me very tuned in. He offered good advise, and to always keep the mind working!