New developments in insulators; Westinghouse suspensions

New Developments in Insulators

The Westinghouse Electric & Manufacturing Co. have, in the past year, made extensive studies concerning the proper design of electrical insulators. Interlink insulators eight inches and ten inches in diameter have been brought out by the company. These have an unusually high tensile strength, when fitted with a suitable cable. The hole is so designed that the cable is allowed to distribute the stress uniformly thru the thick mass of porcelain, placing the latter in compression. All shear and expansion forces have been eliminated.

An improved form of pin for suspension insulators, which has increased the strength of the unit considerably has also been developed. The shape of the pin was determined after careful study of the distribution of stresses. With this new type, the maximum compression forces are obtained and tension stresses are reduced to the absolute minimum.

The studies of the company have also led them into determinations of the best method of firing and cooling porcelain insulator parts.