Westinghouse Transformer, 1887-1889

THF165899 / Westinghouse Transformer, 1887-1889
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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

1887-1889

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

29.1333.237

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Westinghouse Electric and Manufacturing Company.

Material

Metal
Rubber (Material)

Color

Black (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 18 in
Width: 10 in
Length: 8.5 in

Inscriptions

on plate: THE WESTINGHOUSE ELECTRIC CO/ PITTSBURGH, PA. U.S.A./ MANUFACTURERS UNDER PATENTS OF STANLEY SHALLENBERGER SCHMID & OTHERS/ PATENTED/ MAY 25, 1886 NO 342,553 / [...] / OTHER PATENTS APPLIED FOR/ SIZE/ NO 27852 on plate: NO 4
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