General Electric Auto-Transformer, circa 1934

01

Artifact Overview

Transformers increase or decrease voltage and are essential to alternating current (AC) power systems. In the late 1800s, with the help of transformers, AC power systems proved more efficient and economical than their direct current competitors. Transformers helped convert electricity to high voltage for transmission across long distances, then reduced it to lower, safer voltages for use in homes and factories.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Transformer

Date Made

circa 1934

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

36.347.8

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of General Electric Vapor Lamp Company.

Material

Metal
Wire

Color

Black (Color)
Silver (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 10.5 in
Width: 6 in
Length: 6 in

Inscriptions

on plate: GENERAL ELECTRIC AUTO-TRANSFORMER FOR 400 WATT HIGH INTENSITY MERCURY VAPOR LAMP/ MODEL NO. 9AMXS A2 CYC. 60/ [...]/ GENERAL ELECTRIC VAPOR LAMP CO. CODE NO. 160-2A10X1W/ UNITED STATES PAT. 1588171/ [...]/ 1968600/ N.P. 64159 SCHENECTADY, N.Y./ 8P