steaming cup 4: It was done in rhino3d In this image, the "top" view shows the aluminum whisp as a flat part. I would envision a shaft and simple bearings at the base of the "steam". web site: www.johnesimms.com

I think John is offering good advice. As for simple bearings, I would suggest oilite ( bronze bearings with oil in them)available at bearing stores and some auto supplies. Ball bearings have more friction and will rust. Create a cover over the bearing to keep out water and dirt. Another idea is to use a small gear motor to turn the steam. The wind is not always available and you probably want customers to notice the sign at all times. Try Grainger or similar stores for the right size and RPM. Also experiment with a light inside the cup or in front of the cup. If the steam is made shinny, the reflection from the light may make it more eye catching.

Don

Don,
Thanks for the info on the bearings. Simmsie suggested the gear drive as well. I'll look into that. The only issue there is some aggro with codes. Commercial space mucho foot traffic near the university. I will have to post the image. The way the steam and cup are drawn they seem quite flat to me. I was thinking that the steam and cup would be cut from aluminum plate but I like Simmsie's 3D version. I'll put it up tomorrow if I can get around to it so some of the rest of you can sound off on it. Thanks.

City

"Who are you going to believe, me or your eyes?"
Groucho Marx