Fred Locke Combination Insulator

Porcelain Insulators for High-Tension Work

The accompanying engraving shows four new types of porcelain and glass insulators for high-tension work, manufactured by Fred M. Locke, of Victor, N. Y. Mr. Locke has devoted a great deal of attention to this subject, and his insulators are used extensively on high-tension lines in this country. Fig. 1 shows a porcelain outer shell and glass center insulator manufactured for 50,000-volt lines and tested up to 100,000 volts at the works at Victor. Fig. 2 shows a glass triple petticoat insulator for 20,000-volt lines. Fig. 3 shows a glass insulator for use in transposing telephone lines, and Fig. 4, a similar insulator made of porcelain.

The demands for high-tension insulators have grown so rapidly as to compel the erection of new works at Victor by Mr. Locke. They contain the latest appliances used in the manufacture of insulators, and are two stories in height. The first floor contains the separating and mixing vats and molding process, where the water is squeezed out of the clay; also a great kiln for firing the insulators. The second floor is used for molding, shaping and drying. The insulators are burned at a very high temperature, and are vitrified throughout, increasing both their electrical and mechanical strength. The factory has a capacity of 60,000 insulators a week.

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