Universal Specialty Company Fireplug Insulator for Twisted Pair Telephone Work

[Trade Journal]

Publication: Telephony

Chicago, IL, United States
vol. 61, no. 19, p. 569, col. 1-2


Increasing Demand for Universal Porcelain Insulators.

 

Experience is a valuable teacher when applied properly. Experience has unmistakably proven that twisted pair wire for telephone distribution is the most economical and efficient. Again it is true, that twisted pair wire improves, artistically speaking, the appearance of outside telephone work.

 

Durability and Economy Exemplified.
Durability and Economy Exemplified.

 

But as the use of twisted pair wire increased it became absolutely necessary that something be provided which would prevent crosses from occurring between the pair at the point of support. It was only natural that twisted pair wire would be treated as a single wire until experience again proved that it was not the safest thing to do.

 

Ideal Entrance to Building.
Ideal Entrance to Building.

 

The Universal Porcelain Insulator, it is said, provides a correct support for wires of a twisted pair. Grooves are arranged on the insulator to separate the wires, removing all likelihood of short circuits. Formerly, the wires after the insulation had worn off, and where they were insufficiently separated, would necessitate the attention of a lineman or, more frequently, replacement. It is claimed that the Universal Insulator can be substituted for supports on lines, where such conditions exist, thus making use of twisted pair wires that otherwise would be unfit for service.

High and permanent insulation is assured, because of there being a separate groove for each wire of the pair. Equally suitable grooves are provided for all directions of the wire and but one screw or bolt is necessary to fasten the insulator.

 

Upper Point, Wall Attachment.
Upper Point, Wall Attachment.

 

The Universal Specialty Co., 116 S. Seventh street, Terre Haute, Ind., its makers, advise that its first and ultimate cost is less than some other devices. Also that it reduces maintenance cost.

The Universal consists of one piece, and requires no wood blocks, brackets or iron pieces. The method of fastening the insulator is the same for all directions of the wire. Note the various illustrations for different schemes or methods of fastening twisted pair wire with this insulator. Universal Insulators also enable many improvements to be made in the method of erecting single wire drops as shown in the illustrations.

 

An Efficient Drop Take-off.
An Efficient Drop Take-Off.

 

That telephone companies realize the advantages of this porcelain insulator is proven, it is said, by its ever increasing demand. A sample will be sent upon request with attractive folder, giving prices, to every telephone company not using this insulator.

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Keywords:Fireplug : Universal Specialty Company : Illinois Electric Porcelain Company
Researcher notes:The insulator is commonly called the "fireplug". They were made of dry pressed porcelain by the Illinois Electric Porcelain Co. Some specimens are embossed marked with their trademark Triangle M.
Supplemental information: Patent: 954,596
Researcher:Elton Gish
Date completed:December 4, 2019 by: Elton Gish;