Insulation Phenomena

Insulation Phenomena.

MINERVA, IOWA, Feb. 5.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE TELEGRAPHER

SINCE we have been using Brooks insulators I have noticed that the two wires they are on ALWAYS work better after a few hours' rain, or a soft snow storm of two or three inches, like we have had to-day, than they do in perfectly dry weather of four or five weeks' duration. The circuit seems to be much stronger and steadier. The box relays (or sounders) we use follow the key much easier and firmer; and at the same time, after a thorough test (with poor facilities), I am unable to find the least escape along the whole line, and am satisfied, if there is any, it would only be perceptible on a galvanometer. On the old line (glass insulation) the usual and familiar escapes, high adjustment, &c., are always expected and found. "Will you explain why the Brooks insulated lines work BETTER after a few hours' rain than in perfectly dry weather?"

A. B. E.

[The effect observed by our correspondent is not owing to the insulators, but most probably arises from the existence of unsoldered and rusty joints in the line wire, which conduct much better when wet than when dry. The ground wires may possibly have something to do with it. The application of a proper testing instrument would soon disclose the nature of the difficulty. - ED. TELEGRAPHER.]