Simple Pully System

Materials: ★☆☆ Easy to get from supermarket or hardware store
Difficulty: ★★☆ Can be done by science teachers
Safety: ★☆☆ Minimal safety procedures required

Categories: Simple Machines

Alternative titles: DIY Pulley, Build Your Own Pulley

Summary

This demonstration shows how to build a simple pulley using a spool, cardboard, and string to lift small objects. It introduces the concept of mechanical advantage and how pulleys reduce effort or change the direction of force.

Procedure

  1. Cut two circles from cardboard and poke a hole in the center of each.
  2. Glue the cardboard circles onto either side of a thread spool to create rims for the pulley wheel.
  3. Make a handle on a cup by poking two holes, threading string through, and tying securely.
  4. Slide the spool onto a piece of wire to serve as the axle.
  5. Suspend the wire between two sturdy supports, such as chairs or door handles.
  6. Loop the string over the spool so the cup hangs down.
  7. Place marbles or other small objects in the cup and pull the string to lift the load.

Skill Building | Simple Machines: Pulley - KID Museum:


📄 Simple Pulley System For Kids - Little Bins for Little Hands: https://littlebinsforlittlehands.com/pulley-simple-machine/

Variations

Safety Precautions

Questions to Consider