Electrolytic Tank, Design and Applications

Abstract

The theory of the electrolytic tank analog as a device for the solution of potential problems is reviewed, and some of the more important applications are discussed. The mechanical requirements of an electrolytic tank design are stated. A description of the Harvard tank is given, indicating how these problems were met. The figure of mechanical uncertainty for the Harvard tank is estimated to be 0.01 in. A discussion of experimental error in tank measurements covers problems of electrode and electrolyte materials a well as difficulties resulting from surface tension. Control experiments for determining the accuracy of level and tilted tank measurements are described, and the results presented. Although high accuracy is possible in the level tank, only great care can produce results in the tilted tank which are reliable to within 3%.