Kugel fountain
A kugel fountain (also called a floating sphere fountain or by the pleonasmic name kugel ball) is a water feature or sculpture where a sphere sits in a fitted hollow in a pedestal, and is supported by aquaplaning on a thin film of water.
Pressurized water flows between the sphere and socket, creating a mechanical hydrostatic bearing that is nearly frictionless.
The sphere can weigh thousands of kilograms, but the efficient bearing allows it to be spun by the force of a hand.
Many are at popular tourist destinations, such as science museums,[4] shopping centers, lobbies, and gardens.
[5] Download coordinates as: 45°53′09″N 10°50′44″E / 45.885812°N 10.845519°E / 45.885812; 10.845519 (Riva del Garda) 1,930 kg (4,250 lb) 1.8 tons[citation needed]
(A) Water flowing between the sphere and its shaped holder lifts the ball slightly.
(B) Water flows over the sides into a reservoir.
(C) Water is pumped back in an endless loop.
(D) Pump.
(E) Ball can easily be moved by hand.