Fred Locke porcelain insulators for Niagara-Buffalo line

Porcelain Insulators.

The insulation of the Niagara power transmission line between Niagara Falls and Buffalo was a problem that called for the exercise of technical knowledge and skill of the highest order. The extremely high voltage necessitated the use of insulators of special design and construction to withstand the enormous strain. The right insulator was found in the one illustrated herewith, which is known as the "Niagara type." These insulators were designed by the builders of the transmission line, the White-Crosby Company, New York, and made by the Imperial Porcelain Works, Trenton, N. J., which concern enjoys an excellent reputation in the electrical trades for the quality of its porcelain insulators and other electrical appliances made of the same material.

Porcelain Insulator.

The Niagara type of insulator has, it is stated, proved to be the only one that has met the extraordinary requirements of the Niagara-Buffalo transmission line. The insulators are subjected to a test of 40,000 volts' pressure, although 10,000 volts is the regular working pressure. This high test is for the purpose of securing a large factor of safety, and all insulators that show any sign of weakness are thrown aside. These insulators weigh about 10 pounds each, and are 5-1/2 inches high. They are, we are informed, used exclusively on the Niagara-Buffalo line and doing excellent work.

Porcelain for everything in the electrical line is made at the Imperial Porcelain Works, of which Mr. Frederic A Duggan is proprietor. The well-known "Duggan" one, two and three-wire porcelain cleats are made here, and special attention is given to complicated work of original design. With the facilities available the Imperial Works claim to be equal to any demand that can made upon them.