[Recommended by commentators] Artificial snowmaking equipment-Symbol of Sapporo Science Center-

"Recommendations for commentators" where commentators introduce how to enjoy the science museum from their respective perspectives. Ara is in charge of this article. This time, we will introduce the "artificial snowmaking device" that is rare in the world in the "snow / ice corner" of the exhibition room on the 2nd floor.

The exhibit "Artificial Snowmaking Device", which has existed since the Science Museum opened 40 years ago, is a device that can reproduce "in the clouds" 3,000 to 4,000 meters above the sky, and can make snow fall in almost the same way as nature. increase.

● 2nd floor / artificial snowmaking equipment ●

When you open the door, there is an observation window where you can observe the artificial snow falling. The artificial snowmaking device can only be seen in this area, but it is actually a huge device with a height of 18m from the 1st floor to the 4th floor of the Science Museum.

* The commentator who raised his hand is 180 cm →

10 times higher than this

Mechanism of artificial snowmaking equipment

Now, let's take a brief look at how snow is made (the mechanism of the artificial snowmaking device) with the "artificial snowmaking device".

① A lot of ice crystals (baby snow) are released from the ice crystal generator.

(2) Water vapor or mist-like water from the ultrasonic humidifier sticks to the ice crystals and gradually grows into large grains (about 2 mm) and becomes crystals, which appear white.

(3) Since the updraft is generated in the cylinder by the blower, while the crystal is small and light, it keeps growing while floating on the upper part of the cylinder. As the crystals grow and grow larger, they fall without being able to bear the weight.

Please see the video posted on Twitter at the Science Museum to see how the "artificial snowmaking device" makes snow fall!

[↓↓↓ Introduction video of artificial snowmaking device (53 seconds) ↓↓↓]

[Exhibit introduction] Today, I would like to introduce the "artificial snowmaking device", which is the highlight of the Sapporo Science Center. Why don't you feel winter ahead of time? #Air Science Museum #Air Sapporo Science Center #House Museum pic.twitter.com/VifQEQtE2v

The "artificial snowmaking device" is a device that is about 40 years old, so it is a great exhibit just to move.

Currently, the artificial snowmaking equipment is demonstrated twice a day according to the schedule below.

① 11: 30 ～ ② 14: 45 ～ (15 minutes each time)

* The demonstration may be closed due to equipment malfunction or maintenance.

This winter was a record heavy snowfall, which affected transportation and made it difficult to remove snow.

However, the snow made at the Science Museum does not need to be removed, and you can take a leisurely look at it.

Why does the snow made by snowmaking "do not need to be removed"?

The secret is ... you'll find out at the end of the 15-minute demonstration ♪

If you haven't seen the demonstration to the end, please try it.

(February 26, 4th year of Reiwa)