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I
\
■VWXiBBnSNT TO ««TKB BriBGVRIGXXi BNOINBBRt>* aUNB fl4t ISOfl,
-I — t.
THE
ELECTRICAL ENGINEER.
A WMLI JOUBIAL OF ELEOTIUCAL SIEflSEiSIIII,
WITH WHICH IS INCORPORATED
"ELECTRIC LIGHT."
•• •
.• ••
," • • • •
»- - -■
• •.
• ••
: . » ^ » " -
V OLTJJi^E 131. aJTETW- S-m-R.TT.iR )
Prom JANUARY 1, 1892, to JUNE 24, 1892.
Ejectirtcal,
LONDON:
■^-1-
Printed and Published for the l>roprictor by Bioos k Co., at "Thk ELRrTRiOAL Enoineek " Offices, 139-140, Salisbury-court,
Fleet-Atrect, E.C.
B1TPPI<B1CEXW T^ WT^[E BX.ECT'RICJLri BMOXNBER," JUSfB 94, XSefl.
THE SEW YORK
PDBLIC LIBRARY
690009
INDEX TO VOL IX. (New Series.)
HOTE.— Q«BerKl Irtlclei, OoPMipondenoe, and ComputleB' Heetlnji an indirated by heavier type (thni, 290) than the Hates,
reference! to which are shewn by li^t type (Uioa, 291)).
AbtiHalra. ElMtrocullan 4t, IH
Abetdwn Tnmwiji, 1, Ufi
Acddanti, it, S13, 4H, tm, a% ^». 601
Accnmolatar PkUnti. 677
AecnniDlkton, Tata, ifil ; WiTofortb, E
SaU-DlMltuis <^ ast ; Crooipion-Ho'
Add TnniH from Tmnwrnf Batterlu, 1
Acnw Wort* BxbiblU at lAjilil Pil*cc
Acme Worki, Ymr'i Work, J7
AdtliOil HolaL LlTecpool, Tclinhone In
U.W
AlhrtBht. J. T., Portra:. __. „
AlHuder, General B., Death of. ITl
AUgBinelnB Companr'a fileclrio TtatBlllug Crane, 41
Alatca, VtlUuUDD o[ Water Power In, 1E1
A IternaU .Current InieitlgatlonB, Alei. Slemeni, UI
m
Altera ate-Current Moton, ST7, 1»
AltemUlDg Gurrenta, H. H. Kllsour. 11, 11
AlUmaUns Cnrreiita, Teila'a KiperlmenlJi, Tt, 111
Allonulon In Parallel, Bxptrimenta at Madrid, B. O
Pliik,BI
AmmaUn, Lame, l, 61
Anmaten and VDltmeteti, The Weatun, STB, 400
Ampere Balaicea. Sir Wni. Thonuoo'i. in
Ainpu»€MitlaiMre — A Meiime ot Glectrumag-
BaUm, C. aerlDs, SM
ADdMt and Ifodarn, TlUe ot at^ Llefatlng, r>»
ADdrew*. J. D.P., andCn., Work Dl the Year, gt
Audrsn'l Conantrlc Wiring, 3H
AnflO'Ainerloau Telegraph Companr, Meeting!, etc,
M,iu.ia
AppolDtmentB, !&, 87, MV, tSI, bS»
Aro Lampe:
V. Inoandeacent Lampt, IBS
PairUae OlobM tor, at B*(b, mi
and Shadaa, 287
for Shape, 217
Are, The Blectric. Notea on the Light ol, A. F.
'batter, 38S. W, 411
ArmHroniii Oiaaa Company'a Eihlblt at CryaCal
FalKMLM '
Arm;, The, and the Telephone, IW
Art nulDga, 387
AabaatoB, Porcelain, 98&
Arte, Society ol :
Addenbrooke, G. L., Uiea and Appllcatlona ol
Alunlnlnm, ts3
AanoDncement ol Cantor Lecturea, by Prol. W.
Cantor L*cttir*> on Oitrlbntl
•.U8,U1
HU FhoUigr*]
n, by Prof. Purbea,
jrapbj, 181
M CrriCal Palaoe, e
BlEh-Tenakni Eiperlmente at, L. Pyke, B79
Medal Awarded to BdUon, 6DT
rd. Electricity Bupplf,
AiutniiB,El
AutomaUiiU
Ayrtoo and Hathrr'
tntlon at Electrical Er
Englneei
Hf SS6,
Baker, Mr B., Portrait of, US
BaDd Hualc by Telephone, 219
Bangar, Plre Alarm for, 2efi
Banet Arbitration Cau, US, 181, SK, S2S
Banet Complaini of Ita Oai Lighting, IBS, sse
Barraclongh and Co. , Work of the Year, Q
BaUi Electric Light Company, Ueellngi, ef., !»
Bflli.EfpanAoitail) QDiiMMtliui of Main* at, Tl, 1 0
BiR€Bflea. PilUarsi'**-
Cninp<illtlutl fur at MnrnV^HA, 110
llelfi«iie«vtlln,™)
thtf urSftnn.Til*' -. ;
■.a^»Lilrt''irA4.(i.js-j .
EhtfcMOR gAspn&rd :
for Central Stattona'. Kiparlence at Keailngton, 38
Chanoea ol E.U.P. In, J. U. Oladilone and W.
Bll%ert, 4M, SU, M9, SW
the D.P , a
Epitaln'i, 13
Fumetlrom, onCan, 170
LI than ode, H
Nlblelt'a, 97
Sub-gtatlona lor Llfhtlng Toxna, 60
belliia and Co. 'a Electric Light Englnea, :aj
Bell-pnli and Kepeater, Bagiiold'a, IM
BeU telephone ^actorr, The WeaUra Blectric, Stl.
IID
Bella, Tubular and Electric, C
Benardoa Welding Proceaa, b
Beneit, H,, Coaat CommunlcaUon, 30fi
Benham and Frond') Httlngi at Ciyital
Exhibition, 80, ITl
Benliam and Frond, Work o( the Vear, Jg
Berlin Undannmnd Eleclric Kallway, 138
Berl^'a BleoMtial Dbeelory, Mt
" BlbUotheca Beotioteohiiica," Beileir of, A
Blc^elai, Electric, 484
Blcfcle Trainer, Bleclrlo, 1
Bldwall, H., Change! Prodi
Iron Wirea^BU
Blfge, D. B., Blectrlcal Tranamlaa
Blnawanger, O., Portrait ol, lit
Blrkbeck Lecturea, 4(8
I, IM
etc, in. IM, ns
Birmingham Trarawaya. 17
Blahopwale-Blreat Raii'mi
BlahopaStinlloi
Blahop Telephone Cable at CryBtal i'
BlBoknun VenUUIiDg Oompany'i Bi
Palace, 144
Blackpool Lighting, Report of Comm
Blackpool Tramway Bill, S17
Blake, B. W., Appointed to Derry, 4
~-" iolt,andC< "'----'■■
uiiui, iiui,, wind Powi
Board Dl Trade Labotat-
Boat, Electric Submarine, 4M
Boat Kace, The, and Electric Launchei, 33e, 382
Bailer Gxploalon at ProTlni, 241
Boiler Palania, 218
Boiling Magnet*, IM
Bollon Technical School, Initallatlou at, MS
Boi^ Becelved, 4S, 103, 410, 433, 481, 482, COO, iiS,
MT
Boome, H. K and W. F., Behavloar ol Inanlitlng
Uaterlala, m
Boyi, C. V.jKlectilc Spark Photography, 268
Bradlord Tnunwayi, 2, ii, 444, !«l. :
Biadley'i Multlphaae Patenta, 4M
Bradlotd, tiev Electrical Firm at. U
Bramwell and Hania, a Hew Firm, 2
BraHlian Cable, 677
Brailllan Submarine Company, Ueetl
Brealan Central Station, &B1
Brian ne Arc Lamp. Sid
Br.iah ComparV'a Rihib
»s"-— •■"-"■
Bndapeat, Popp'a Syitera
t» at Cryatal P
Ttaln-Llghtii.
In, 1
alBce Eihi.
Plant, BIS,
^-'j^iS:*?*-;?;.
:able D. Blectric Can, r.!.:,
."able-Laying at Tsngler. HO
lableUachrnerr, 280,311
tablet, New, 146, 170, 171. !S0, !02, 337. M7, 386, *S7,
Cabtel Bepalred. 1, 26, IS
Cablet to the Ei
tuart Kuiaell'* Book on, MM
d Iiilnglon Proviaional Order, Id,
leal Enterpriae In, 4
Canal BoaU, Uectric Pn>pulBlon '
Csnnea Blectric Light Company, !i
Canterbury Lighting, 138
Cantwbury, Ughia, Beport ol Cod
Cantor Lecturea (lee FOEBKS)
Cuboni, Coat of.'su
Carbon Tranamliter without Bled
Cardiff Lighting, 116
ead Electric Tramwa
Cumarthan, Coit of Qaa at, 241, 2W
Carriagea, Electric, 3, 147
Carrlagee, Blectric, tor Boaton, U.S., 201
Carpenter Blectric Heating Syatem at Cryatal Fi
Switch, 103; Nalder Broa. and Co. a, S68, W;
Paterwn and Cooper'g, 140, 1<I9 ; duarllchi, 8M i
pany i, 3D ; WoodUiue and Bawaoue, 170
CaterplUara and Blectridty, 6M
Cathcart, Peto, and Kadlord'a Blhiblt at CrrMal
Palace, tot
Cauatlc Soda and Chlorine, Oreenwood'a Proceaa, H
CeUolold BatUry Plate!, 410
Central Loudon Electric BaUway, U, 6t, 146, 170,
itralSUtlon Burnt Dl
t,14«
h Accumulatora (I
jLeDaiDKuin, a^
Chaogea of E.M.F. In Secondary Batterlat, 1. B.
Oladitoiie and V. Hlbbart, 4n, G93, HI, Nt
Changing the Badge ot the National Blectric LI|U
Sapptement to "The Electrical Engineer, H
June 2i, 1802. J
INDEX.
f- VOL. VL
LNewSerMi.
Iltthiin Accident, The, 88S, 866, 292
Chfttham Central Station Water Supply, 40
Chatterion, A.. Alaminium llanufactare, 248
Cbelaea Electricity Supply Company, Meetlnga, etc.,
478,808
CSiemical Analysis, Introduction to Qualitative,
Barker North. 160. 255, 386. 353. 304
Chester Lighting, 60, 138 ; Report by Dr. Hopkinson,
Giicago. Electric Unicycle Railroad for, 1
Chicago World's Fair. 25, 49, 66, 07, 08, 121, 124, 170,
171, 173, 194, 316, 337, 886, 386, 400, 434, 470, 606, 554,
601
Chill Telegraphs, 457
China, Telegraph to, 86
Churchill and Co.'s Exhibits at Crystal Palace, 534
Church Lighting in London. 601
Church Serrice Transmitted by Telephone to Derby,
106
Clark Cell as a Standard of Electromotive Force,
SL T. Qlazebrook and S. Skinner, 374
Cloaed-Couduit Systems, 468
City, Electric Poirer for, 07
City Electric RaUways, Opposition to, 107
Ctty end GuQds Old Students' Association, 74, 07
City and Guilds Institute, 411
City Ughting. 27. 76
City uf London Electric Lighting Company, 96, 620
City Notes, see " Business Notes " in each issue
City and South London Railway, Meetings, etc., M,
65, 73, 119, 139, 140. 168. 170
deeihorpes and its Lighting, 663
Coal-Cutters, Electric, Manufacturers of, 578
Coast Communication, 29, 61, 146, 172, 107, 217, 211,
242, 305, 313, 337, 386, 412
Cobalt, Resistance of. 104
Combined Engine and Dynamo, 488
Commerce, Year-book of, 07
Commuted Currents, 371
CompMiies' Meetliiipi, Beporta, etc. :
Anglo-American Telegraph, 96, 119, 148
BaUi Electric Light, 239
Birmingham Electric Supply, 167, 198, 216
Brazilian Submarine. 453
Brush Company, 96
Central London Railway, 143
Chelsea Electricity Supply, 478, 603
City and South London Railwsy. 119, 189, 168
Ooromsrdal Cable Company, 810
Consolidated Telephone Construction and Main-
tenance. 599
Cuba Submarine, 148, 167
Direct Spanish Telegraph, 216. 887. 810
Direct United Stetee Cable, 47, 71, 96
Eastern Extension Telegraph, 463
Eastern Telegraph, 71
Edinburgh Electric Supply, 46
Edison-Swan, 148
Electric Construction Corporation, 3, 863, 310
Electric and General Investment, 575, 596
Elmore's Copper Depositing, 81
Elmore's French Copper Depositing, 405, 480, 527
Elmore's German and Austro-Hungarian Metal,
600
Elmore's Wire. 10
Giant's Causeway Electric Railway, 131
Globe Telegraph, 72
Oocdou AiUL Co., J. B. U., 120
Hastings Electric Light, 123
Honse-to-House Electric Light, 884, 858
Indiarubber, etc., 190
Indo-European Telegraph, 430
International Electric Subway Company, 834
Kensington and Knlghtsbridge Company, 262, 287
Keswick Electric light, 289
Liverpool Electric Supply, 261
Liverpool Overhead Railway, 167
' London Electric Supply, 811, 331
Metropolitan Electric Supply, 454, 477
Mix and Genest, 239
Mutual Telephone, 46
National Telephone Company. 620
I Newcastle and District Electric Lighting, 180
Newcastle Electric Supply. 120. 148
Northampton Electric Light, 239
Northern Electric Wire, 168
Notting Hill Electric Light, 334
Oriental Telephone Company, 888. 431
Renter's Telegram Company, 551
St. James's Electric Light, 94, 116, 143
Submarine Cables Trust, 478
Telegraph Construction, 168, 215. 238
Telephone Company of Egypt, 359
Western and Brazilian Telegraph. 455, 508
Wtstem Counties and South Wales Telephone,
574. 566. 619
West India and Panama Telegraph, 508
Westminster Electric Supply, 191, 213
Commercial Cable Company, Meetings, etc., 810
Companies. New, see each iuue
Oompaniea Share List, see each issue
Companies Wound up in 1891. 41
Compass Needle. The. A. H. Fison, 468
Compound Winding Patents, Tlie, 337, 356
Cmcentric Cables, Rise of Pressure in, M. IL
KUgour, 11, 41
CooduiU, A. A. C Swlnton, 386
Oboduits for Mains, Johnstone's System, 26, 182
Oongreas at Chicago. 104
ConaoUdated Telephone Construction and Main-
tenance Company, Meetings, etc., 599
Oootinental Edison Company's Receipts. 1
Cootractors, Electrical, Suggested Registration of,
Cooking. Electric, at Crystal Palace, 127, 266, 36? ;
at South Shields, 488
Copper Conductors, Tables, etc., Relating to, 863
Cooper. H. and J., their Rooms at Crystal Palace
Exhibition, 78
Cork Tramways, 2, 122, 193
Ooat of Electric Lighting, 4, 28, 60. 885
Oovnting Coins by Eiec&iclty, 565
■ OBsotry Town Lighting, 679
L ^ODty of London Company's Clerkenwell Order. 146
QDiekneU. E. C, Address to New South Wales Elec-
trical Club, 48
Crane, Electric, Allgemeine Company's, 242 ; Cromp-
ton's, 56 ; Erratum, 125
Crane, Travelling, Tenders Wanted for. at Hull, 630
Cranes, Allgemeine Company's Electric Travelling,
417
Cranes, Sandwell's Electric Travelling, 899
Croggon's Exhibits at Ciystal Palace, 150
Crompton and Co. 's Exhibits at Crystal Palace Exhi-
bition, 58, 105.246, 867
Crompton-Howell Accumulators at Kensington, 864
Crompton-Howell Storage Company, Work of the
Year, 88
Crompton, R. K B., his First Connection with Elec-
trical Engineering, 106
Crookes, William, Portrait of. 6
Croaaley's "Otto" Gas Engines, Instructions for
Working, 160
Crowner's Quest, 516
Croydon, List of Installations at, Perren Maycock,
608
Crystal Palace Central Station (tee Stdinuam)
Oryital Palace Kzhlbltlon :
Acme Works Exhibits, 109
Acme Works Stand, The, 196
Admissions to, 241, 246
American Specialities Stand, Sketch of, 612
Anders Elliot and Chetham-Strode's Exhibits, 271
A. P. Lundberg's Exhibits, 286
Armstrong Glass Company's Exhibits, 298
Bagnold's Bell-pull and Repeater, 158
Benham and Frond's Lamp Fittings, 80, 272
Bishop Telephone Cable, 618
Blackman ventilating Company's Exhibit, 844
Brush Company's ExhibiU, 55,246
Carpenter Electric Heating System, 618
Catalogue of, 54, 222
Cathcart, Peto, and Radford's Exhibits, 569
Cheap Trips to, 338
Churchill and Co.'s Exhibits at, 584
Comparison of 1882 and 1892, S. F. Walker. 369
Consolidated Telephone Company's Exhibits, 294
Correspondence rt, 133. 205. 229, 258, 801, 826, 349
Croggon and Co.'s Stand, 150
Crompton and Co.'s Exhibits, 58, 105, 125, 246, 866
Dan Ryland's Exhibits, 296
Davey, Paxman, and Co.'s Exhibits. 69, 222. 869
Deputations and VisiU to, 169, 172, 193, 218, 241,
242, 266, 289. 837, 886, 606, 507
Direct-Current Dynamos at, 296, 818, 342, 866, 414,
488 462
Dorman and Smith's Exhibits, 203
Easton and Anderson's Exhibit, 462
Edison-Swan Screen and Exhibits, 176. 534
Electric Construction Corporation's Exhibits, 199,
Electric Stores Co^t^fn BxMbit, 510 * • • % :
EntertainmeLt Coast; Tne, 227 •• , <•.« I •-
Epstein Accumulsltois 82* * "
Explanations at, 171 ♦ . , , - . ' • • • ' •
Faraday and Son's Exhibi^,-223 •
Fire Precautions, 174 • '•:,•!••••'
Fountain and Grotto, The, 127 « ... •
Fowler- Waring Cable Oonipf fiy'a £9LhlLit, oSi i
1,%,
I
General Electric Company's •fiam|b{U;i26Hn6, 21
391 •^'**'* •-"' •
Glover, W. T., and Co.'s E3chibit, 318
Goolden's Dynamo, 487
Gordon and Co.'s Work at, 174
Hammer, W. J., American Exhibits, 611
High-Tension Experiments at, 243, 366, 893, 400
Historic Retrospect, 1887-1802, 54
HIstonr of the Palace, 6
H. and J. Cooper's Rooms at, 78
International Electric Company's Exhibit, 317
Joel and Co.'s Exhibits, 153
Johnson and PhllUps's Exhibits, 82, 222, 860
J. Spencer's Exhibit, 380
Jury for. 267, 400
Laing, Wharton, and Down's Exhibits, 200, 891, 487
Lighting of. 39
List of Exhibitors. 9 ; Erratum, 25
and Local Authorities, 106
Lloyd and Lloyd's Exhibits, 390
Mains and Transformers at, 174
Maquay Syndicate's Exhibits, 558
Media)val Court, The. 272
Mining and Oenerai Electric Lamp Company's
Exhibits. 54, 107
Municipal Engineers' Visit to, 278
Napier and Son's " Showspeed," 127
National Telephone Company's Exhibits, 317
Opening of, 1
Osier's SUnd. 128
Pantomime Fairy Lights, 107
Pilkington- White Meter, W. J. Hammer, 486
Post Office Exhibit, 54
Progress of, 7. 81, 54
and Railway Rates, 91
Rashleigh Phiops and Dawson's Stand, 246
Ries and Henaerson System of Riveting, 344
Ries Regulating Lamp Socket, W. J. Hammer, 249
Sargeant's Electric Launches, 151
Sea Serpent at last, 97
Sectional Standards Company's Exhibit, 513
Siemens Bros.' Exhibits, 80. 128, 154
Smith and Son's Exhibits, 272
Smith. S., and Son's Exhlbito, 227
Smoking Concert at, 290, 813
Smythe and Payne. Wiring at, 278
Swinburne and Co.^s Exhibits, 511
Swinburne and Co.'s Transformers, 88, 866,398,511
Thomson, Sir William, his Measuring instrumenU,
108
Various Telephonic Exhibits, 318
Visitors to National Telephone Company's Room,
265
Ward Leonard System of Motors, 613
Western Electric Company's ExhibiU, 58, 270
Weston Ammeters and Voltmeters, 878, 400
Weston Electrical Instruments, 618
White's Exhibits, 108
Wiggins and Sons' Mica Exhibits, 88
WilM's Ship's Course Indicator. 137
Woodhouse and Rawson's Exhibits, 105, 161, 199
Crystal Palace Pantomime, 107
Crystal Palace Pantomime Fairy Lanu>s, 2
Crystal Palace Supply Conwany, Work of the Tear. 88
Cuba Submarine Telegraph Company, Meetings, etc.
148 167
Cut-outs and Ceiling Roses, General Electric Com-
pany's, 178
Cut-out, Cunyns^ame's Magnetic, 106; Electric
Secret Service Company's, 242 ; Charging, 316
Cyclometer, Ransome's, 128
Dan Rylands's Exhibits at Crystal Palace,
Darlington, Electrical Engineering Lectures at, 08
Davey, Paxman, and Co.'s Exhibits at Crystal Palace
Exhibition, 59, 222. 860
Davis, J., and Son, Use of Electricity at Derby, 631
Deaths from Lightning, 108, 520
Deaths («M Obituaet Notices)
Deptford Station, Accident at, 208
Deputations at the Palace, 204
Derby, Church Struck l^ Lifi^tning at, 506
Design and Construction of Dynamos, T. Rooke, 281
Dewar, Prof., Oxygen and Ether, 244
Dewsbury, Deputation from, to Crystal Palace, 606
Dinner to Prof. W. E. Ayrton, 467, 498
Directory, the Electrical Brunnura^ U
Direct Spanish Telegraph Company, Meetings, etc.,
216.287.810
Direct United States Cable Company, Meetings, etc,
47, 71, 96
Distribution, Electrical, Cantor Lectures by Prof.
Forbes, 100. 188
Distribution and Measurement of niuminaUon, A. P.
Trotter, 490
Distribution and Transmission, R. Kennedy, 423, 440
Dorman and Smith's Exhibits at Crystal Palace, 203
Dorman and Smith's Triple-Pole Main Switch, 4tf
D.P. Accumulators, 62
Drake and Gorham, Work of the Year, 88
Drehstrom Apparatus, 37. 77 ; Stratum, 106
Drills, Sautter, Harlejand Co.'s Electric, 67
Dublin, Tenders for Wiring Civic Buildings, 508
Duckett, J. B., Distribution of Electricity, 241, 820
Dundee, New Post Office for. 193
Dundee, Tenders for, 629, 5K>
Dynamo-Electric Machinery, Hopkinson and Wibon,
850
"Dynamo-Electric Machinery," B. P. Thompson, 210
I>¥iiam<
Brush and Mordey at Crystal Palace Exhibition, 56,
464
Buyers of, 173
Calibrating, 433
Crompton's at Crystal Palace, 867
Design and Construction of, T. Rooke, 281
Direct-Current at Crystal Palace, R. W. Weekes,
296. 818, 842, 366, 414, 488. 462
Easton and Anderson's at Crystal Palace, 468
Efficiency of, G. Kapp 87, 102
Electric Construction Corporation's at Cryatal
Palace. 866, 488
and Engine Combined, 422
at Finsbury College, 241
Goolden'% at Crystal Palace, 487
for Gordon's CoUeffe, Aberaeen, 630
Heating of, Rechniewski, 854
Hdios Alternator, 122
Holmes's at Crystal Palace, 414
Iron for, 678
Joel's Slow-Speed, 153
Johnson and Phillips's at Crystal Palace, 369, 439
for Manchester Central Station, 816
as Motors. W. B. Sayers, 346, 876. 898
Parsons Steam Turbine. 34, 63, 86, 110
Pyke and Harris Inductor. 467, 466
Bioper Company at Crystal Palace, 489, 462
Rotary Current, 37, 77 ; Erratum, 106
Scott, L.. and Co. at Crystal Palace. 440
Scott ana Mountain's at Crystal Palace, 438
Scott's, R. A., at Crystal Palace, 415
Siemens at Crystal Palace, 128, 416
Taunton at Crystal Palace, 415
Woodhouse and Rawson's at Crystal Palace, 468
E.
" Earth " 348
Earth's 'Magnetism, Theory of, H. WUd. 202
Eastbourne, Reduction of Price per Unit at, 630
Eastern Extension Telegraph Company, Meetings,
etc., 463
Eastern Telegraph Company, Meetings, etc., 71
Edinburgh Electric Supply Corporation, Meetings,
etc., 46
Edinburgh Exhibition, 313, 347
Sdinbmgh Tramways, 170, 103
Edison, 252
Edison and the News Agencies, 84
Edison-Sims Torpedo, 123, 170
Edison's Fee, 601
Edison's Latest Electric Railway, 76, 90
Edison-Swan Company, Director Appointed, 217
Edison-Swan Company, Meetings. ^., 148
Edison-Swan Screen and Exhibits at Crystal Palace,
175, 534
Edison and Thomson-Houston Companies, 677
Edison and Thomson-Houston, the Proposed Amal*
gamation, 256
Edison and Thomson-Houston Trust, 170
Electric and Cable RaUways, 469, 562
Electric Carriage, 338
Electric Construction Corporation, Meetings, etc., 3,
263.310
Electric Construction Corporation's Exhibits at
Crystal Palace, 109, 366
Electric Construction Corporation, Work of the
Year, 13
Electric Fans, 482 ; at Vienna, 483
Electric Fire Engine, 194
Electric Float, 194
Electric and General Investment Company, Meet-
ings, etc, 575, 596
Electric Heaters for Tramcars. 103
Electric Instruments, Bottone s Book on, 337
Electric Lamp Ladder Pillars, 515
motit.
In ADtwop, in, 160
In Anpattori Cinon ud Ca.'i Wool WinbonH,
lOf AilMdou, ih
Ut, MO, 3M, US,
m b«tntetot, ut
m ummm Boolatj'i SoMiu, G7T
lorObartM]'. Ill
Isr CbMtaTLM, Tfi, US, m
m GhkMn Wocld'a fklr, B7, 1», ITO
Hr OUnrlek, in, 180, HI, tSS, NB, MI
for atf UMt MirtaLlM
In OlaadMiton Tnwn Hall, TB
atdoHrti Hall, PoMoIh, MS, iT!
for CnHbdils*, BSS
In calll«rlMj41
atCobign*, 380
lot Oolonibo, US
GomnarlMii <ri Coat of, Hi
Oortot.WG
atCoittit Oiidcn ttaej Drm Bill, S
for Ommtrj, leV, Wl, WB, US
■t Cnlulda, Llaniladno, 661
atC^Mdf, Amerioa, UB
M Croydon, MS
for Croldon Unntdpal BondlDfi, IH, iS8
fot Cmlal PalttM rartrlot, W, fti n. IS
of tba OrMal Palao* BiUtnUou Suodi, m
■t tba Grjital Palace Fantomlina, S, in
of Li. " Dada,'' •■• nndar Orar, f
In thaDaafOHViitU OOam, 7>
tnbWi, 1£1
for Dvb7ril& *3*, UT. UO, EAl, &M
lor Derby, Dopniatlan to Bitb, SD
lorJMny, jiMmiitmmt of Kniln*er, 411, Wl
lort Doekyird, W
irr, 7S, ItT
a, Ilia of Han, Itl
at Daronport Doekyird, W
In DBwabarr, 7S, ItT
lor Doulai, Iila of Han, It
la Dom, n, at, ns, wi
tor Dnadan, *■"
t, 3SS, (10, 181, 601, BOS, fiOt, US,
I LIAtlU
Lonaon, llf
for Sail Uolaiav, US
In XdlnbDnb, tit, Kl, S3T
Bnqnlrlaaaa In tlu Houa of '
■t batra. no, Ut, 4ai, W5, SM
KiblUHon tn Inlanil, 6
Kiparieaoe irlth Asenmnlaton at EanilnttoB, n
In ncaham, 73, ttt
niM HoOM Lifted. IM
atnaat«<Md,fn,6n
for norauee, 3ST
In Floar HUb, <W, UT
In Fnuea, 1, sn
and Fnlhani Voatir, lU, sn
and Ou, AdTanUfaa of Compatltlan, U
ud Oaa, Hr. Orwall Fhllllpa^ 4^ilnlon, n
on Oenoas BaOmvi, 49
ol Olbnllar, lU, tn, HB, SM, UE
In aUnw, £, tW, Mt, 4St, 4C7, MB, NX
In Ooddmlu, IM
atOaole,lK
tor Qrand Theatre, Blnnlngham, HT
fOrOrauntown, t6T, 606
' Ircaatto, Italy, »l
■"-""--£,»£
f, n^ ««p, *oi
t, Indo-Chlna, sn
tat a
In HalllBi, N, n^ U6, ISl
tor Halbom, M
for Hare, SoMn, Us
at HorUenHonl ExhlMlton, HI
Jar tndlw Ballway Carrlagn, 6t
Id iSntMn, SM«K IWi, F^f •
krt<l»mw,7f. ,
In JD((nn4bfii«HtC)lI
for Klllamay, 606 ' *'■•
fnr KloiberlBT EihlbJtlon, sM
At KlnoBwcxid, 313
- " '-■n, Balop, 3L^
torU
In Lane, US.ULISl
at Lawnbont, 133
Laakace of Wlraa thriHiah Bnow C
aod Leanilnctan Town OoudoII, U
Lectnr«by(T. BUchle, N
Lactare by B. J. SUoock, U7
Lee«ot*byJ.C.alU,llT
for Lsedi, ITS, !8B, «3I, lET, 606
for Laadi PnbUo Ubraiy, na
of Laedi Town Halt, B8, MS
for Leioaaler, IBl
tor Lalth ttookh <B, 1i
In una, »>
for Llaiarlck, tS
In L(t— --■ - - ~ ■" -- -'
lorUTaiwal Ti , _.
lor Llaaallr, 14 Ml
Id LoDdoD, A. a W. Seiuwdy, Ut, Ul
of London Caobal Uaat Hutata, i, UVm
m loDdon (City), 17, TO, ns, >», 111
In London Ooon^ OonnoU Ofloaa, Be
In london ffotaliL «S7
for London School Board Ofltoaa, IIS
forLonna, Pranoe, Ufi
at Ladbnr, M, 386, «U
for I^bridga, BN
Inl^nton andCynmonth, 71, tM, us
lor Lytham Pkr, ns, US
illwaySt
libbay, I
Jta, 14i
for Ualbonma, SB, 170, III
for Uollat, 7S,iU
at Hoy Han, invaruaaa, nS
tn Mr. Cbambanl raetOTy, Haldatona, IB
□I Hr J. Ballon') Hodh, 1H
In Mr, Wblte'i HauiloDi Orartami, near Dmubar
ton, IB
for NalKm, UT, W
tor Nawlnaton, MS
lDrKawnort,6(16
In NIddatd Ja Twlno Uilla, 7.
In NoHlianinton, fU, US
lor KotHngbam, nS, 369
tar NotUnfham Cade Uniai
tor NniieatOD, MS
tor Oldhain, tCB
In OmnlbiUBa. 167, Ul. 623, t
In Oar Homea, A. 9^1e, SL_
tOitoid, K, I16, US, 603, 6», SSt
for Pontypridd rVe, IZi, zes
for Portaea WorthouM, t«6
tor PortBoaath, SB, It2, 1«. U), IBS, I
MS, 3S7
381, 66«, 677
ot Seadlnc'Town RdL IS
-. --"— ^ ij(»B(Hith Walea, I
Utary Toomantant, 606
at B<val ranting Work*, Vienna, 67S
forSualey, 601
torStTOeoisa'i, Brlitol, (S
at St. Heleni, G7T
In St. Halan* Town Hall, 71, IM
at at HIdiaUa Cole AUwy Chnrob, London. Ml
at St. PaoOTi, «, 76, n7, Ui. XU, IM, WT, 606
at St. Patecabmg, 3S6
tor BaUoid, n, a«, US
biSauUFe,B7
Sheer beat «, 4!% W
for Sbarboma, MB
on Shipa, la, B7, 196, IBS, 180,168, Ut,Ul,BiO,M
of ahlpa. Pint Vaaael Lighted, laa nndar Otiay, «
in,iki
— •-- Plar, 181, 61
Ji. a
or Bonth Shlelda, U
lorSonthwart, Ul
lnBi«in,B7
of SpirlDEfleld, S««, IH
tor GtaltDrd, SDl
for StaflonUhtre IndutHal Bcbool, 131
at SUmtom, Sll
for Sloorbrldsa, 60
at Stnttfart, UB
totSondariand.TS
tor Soiaban, India. 69}
for Sottoo CotdOeld, ai7. Hi
at Smuuea, 116
in Bwadau, 111
lor Swindcn. US
Sydenham Centnl Button, ID, IB, SB. tSt
tor nmwortli, 61
b,», UE
^y, m, Ki
1,lSi,6D7
tor TeiSSabS
In Tbeatrei, 1,^607
forToloaa, Spain, 167
for Torqaay, IM
00 Tralna, 111, 116, nt, 631
onTramoan, 631
for Tnnbrldga Walli. 133, 167
tor Tnnatall, 386
and Vagrtatlon, OS
tor Varvlan Theatre, 1
.1, JIB
lor WaitlDgton, 133
In Watarford, 71, M6, SST, 608, 6S0
torWaatCowM. n?
in the Waatan Oonntlei, 167
tor Wattoo^aper-Uu's, 188
It Wallay Abbey, Btokfron-Trant, 630
tor Waybitdse, 619
tor WUtabiTaD, Ml, 6», 668, 67S
tor Winn, KB, 606
tor WJS^hall, MB, 606
for vmetim, 438, us
Mr Wlndmini, 606
and Whtd Power, Prof. Blyth, 113
for WolnduunpEon. isi
at Woodhatch, Selgata, 801
■ "• olwich, 7!
_. ._naater, —
Worit ofth«l__,.
at Wrexham, 311, 663
on the Yaoht " Tyoho Brahe, " B7
for Yannonth. 73, 603
tor Voric, US, MO, Ul
nnady, M
rioHliiiiN
SnppieiiMiit to " The Blecfrical Engineer/n
June 24, 1802. J
iNbfix.
rVot. tx.
LNcw 8eri«.
Electric Saflwajs Deferred, 194
Beotrlo Sailing Olg, 655
Eleotric Spark Fhoiography, 241, 268
Electric Stampen, 419
Electric Standardiiliig Inatitntion Dinner, 816 ; Fees
for Testing, 579
Electric Stores Company's ^chiUt at Crystal Palace,
SIO
Electric Stores, Limited. 4
Electric Submarine Boat, 680
Electric Supply, Carious Circumstance, 266
Electric Traction, Cost of, 166. 375
Electric Traction in fiance, 121
Electric Traction, Various Systems of, 105
Electric Traction, Work of the Year, 87, 89
Electric Tram Chronograph, F. J. Smith, 556
Electrical Distribution at Newcastle, A. W. Heayiside
and R. C. Jacksoa, 686, 678
Electrical Engineering Ck>mpany of Ireland, Exhibi-
tion by. 5
Electri<»i Engineering Problems, T. Held, 487
Electrical Engineering aad Sydney UnlTersity, 98
XleetriOAl Engineers, Infltitatloii of :
Conversazione, 553
Gladstone, J. H., Changes of E.M.F. in Secondary
Batteries, 488
Gladstone, J. H., and Hibbert, W., Changes of
E.M.F. ui Secondary Batteries, 499. 888
Heariside, A. W.. and Jackson, B. C, Electrical
DistribuUon at Newcastle, 686, 572
Hughes. Prot D. K, Oil as an Insulator, 267
Jwamai of, 888^ 601
Ordinary General Meetixig of, 618
Presidential Address by ItoL W. E. Ayrton, 112
Seekenzaun, A., Load Diagrams of Tramways and
Cost of TracUon, 806, m, 881
Siemens, AUemate-Current luYestigatious, 188, 209
Sketch of Annual Dinner, Supplement to issue of
1st January
Tesla, N., Htgh-Tension Experiments, 401, 417, 448,
470, 496. n!r048. 666, 60S, 608
Trotter, A. P., Light of Electric Arc, 886, 486, 471
Electrical Exhibition for Manchester, 267
** Electrical PUnt." 24
Electrical Quackery and the Newspapen. 84
Electrical Standardising Institution, Work of the
Yesr.lS
MUetrieaX ITorM, Change of Editorship, 241
Electridtj up to Date, 288
Electriei^ in Gas Works, 217
Electric!^, History of, £. C. Cracknell, 42
** Electricity," lU isditorial Staff, 145
Electricity and Magnetism, D. O. S. Davies. 461
Electricity, Measurement of, M. Sutherlana, 265, 363
Electricity and the Navy, F. T. Hamilton, 442, 460
Electricity, RiTeting by, 508
Electrici^ and Rheumatism, 208
Electricity at Royal Cornwall Exhibition, 538
Electricity and Sanitation, 468
Electricity, Tempering Gun Springs by, 506
Electricity in the Woricshop, 184
Electrocution at Abattoirs. 194
Electro-force Boots, 889, 641
Electro-Harmonic Society, UO, 211, 217, 309, 313, 4U0
Electro-Metallurgy. J. W. Swan. 458, 670
Electrolytic luTentions, Kellners, 2
viecnoiync jlaw of Least Energy. 109 ; Erratum. 133
Electromotive Force, Clait Cell as a Standard of,
R. T. Glasebrook and S. Skinner, 374
Electrostatic Instrument, Swinburne's, 19
Electroteohnics, Prol W. E. Ayrton, 112
Elmore in Austria, 169
Elmore Process, Tne. 289
Elmore's Copper Depositing Company, Meetings,
etc, 21
Elmore's French Company, Meetings, etc., 406, 480,
Bbnore's German and AnstrD*Hungarian Metal
Company. 600
Elmore's Wire Company, Meetings, etc., 19
Emeraon, G. E., Inyentlons, 554
Engineer, Consulting, for Londonderry, 265
Engineers' Exchange, Suggested Establishment, R.
Bolton, 241, 888 ; Opening of, 409 ; Dinner and Con-
cert, 481, 580
Engineers, Municipal, Visit to London, 218 ; VUit to
Crystal Palace, 278
Engineers, Society of, 219
Engineers for Spain, 602
Epstein Accumulator, The, 83
Eason, W. a. Portrait of, 126, 147
Esson, W. B., ResignaUon of. 553
Ewing, Prot, Parsons's Steam Turbine Dynamo, 34
Exeter Liehttng, City Surveyor's Report on, 886
Expert's Opinion, Amusing Case, 608
F.
Fahie, J. E. and Son, Wiring Houses, 897
Fahle and Son, J. K., Work of the Year, 88
Faraday and Son's Exhibits at Crystal Palace, 223
Faure Patent in Germany, The, 506
Ferranti's Automatic Transformers, 529
Fsrrantl's Automatic Transformer Switches, 51
Ferranti's Meters, 50
Flnsbury CoUege Lectures, 27
Fire Alarm, Electric, in Boston, U.S., 25
Fire Alarms for Chelmsford, 338, 409
Fire Alarms at Chiswlck, 75
fire Alarms at Poplar, 268
Fire Engine, Electric, 194
Fire at Messrs. Hodges and Todd's, 195
Fire Precautions at Crystal Palace, 174
Fire at Scott's Supper Rooms, 516, 626
Fireworks. Electric, at Chicago, 25
FitUngs, Decorative, S. F. WiOker, 41
Fittings, Laing, Wharton, and Down's, at Crystal
Palace, 490
FltUngs, Lamp, Benham and Frond's, 80
Fittings, Osier's, 126
Fison, A. H., The Compass Needle, 458
FltaGerald's Llthanode AccnmnUtors, 64
Flexible Metallio TnUng, 66
Float, Electric, 194
Flying Machine, Moore's, 109, 194
Fog Annihilator, Electric, J. W. Swan, 364
Fog and Electric Light, 116
Fogbell, An Electric, 76
Fog Signals, Electric, 24
Forbes, G., Cantor Lectures on Distribution, 109,
183, 187, 181 ; Visit to America. 885, 481
Forbes, Prof. G., Transmission of Power at Niagara,
481,668
Forbes, J. 8., Elected President National Telephone
Company, 96
Force, Lines of, and I'nit Magnetic Pole, 77
Fortress, Edison's New Method of Defending, 84
Fort Salisbury Telegraph Line Completed, 160
Fowler- Waring Cable Company's Exhibits at Crystal
Palace ExhibiUon, 66
Ftankfort Exhibition Finances, 51
Frankfort*Lauffen Transmission Plant, % 87, 74
Franklin, Benjamin, Portrait of, 26
Free Trade in Telephones, 387
French Customs Tariff, 89
French Elmore Company, The, 397, 406
French Physical Society, 385, 413
Fulton, T. a. Electricity on Ships, 260
G.
Galvanometers, W. E. Ayrton and T. Mather, 896,618
Galvanometers, Siemens, at Crystal Palace, 129
Garcke, E., Appointment, 361
Garcke, Mr., Resigns Managing Directorship Brush
Company, 97
Gamett, Prof. Wm., and Portsmouth Lighting, 69,
Gas and Electric Lighting, Mr. Orwell Phillips's
Opinion, 28
Gas Engines in Central Stations, 290
Gas Engines, Mansgement of, 134, 160
Gas Engines for Working Tramcars, 50
Gas Explosion at Paris, 602
G<u JcumdCB Challenge, 146
GkM Lighting Journal v. Electric Lighting, 180
Geipel, Mr., Appointed Superintending Engineer,
Brush Company, 97
General Electric Company's Exhibits at Crystal
Palace, 126, 176, 391
General Electric Company, Work of the Year, 89
General Electric Power and Traction Company,
Resignation of Manager, 337
General Electric Traction Company, Work of the
Year, 89
Giant's Causeway Accident, The, SIS
Giant's Causeway Electric Railway Company,
Meetings, etc., 131
Gill, J. C, Eleotric Lighting, 137
Gilgit, Proposed Tel^a>sphic Extension to, 194
Glasgow Technical College, Presentation to, 485
Glasgow, Tenders for Central Station at, 506
Glasgow Tramways and Electric Traction, 69, 74,
166, 173, 196, 243
Globe Telegraph Company. Meetings, etc., 72
Glow Lamps, Test of, at Paris, 609
Gold-Leaf Electroscope, Sir William Thomson's, 518
Gold Salts, Electrolysis of. A. Watt, 15, 32
Goolden and Co., Work of the Year, Q.
Gordon and Co., J. E. H., Meetings, etc., 120.
Gordon and Co. s Work at Crystal Palace, 174
Gordon, J. E. H., Portrait of, 64
Gordon, J. E. H., and Tesla's Experiments, 193
Gramme Winding, 629
Gray, R. K.. Portrait of, 64
Gray, T., Measurement of the Magnetic Properties
of Iron, 093
Gray's Telautograph, 2
Greenwood's Caustic Soda and Chlorine Process, 86
Grindle, J. A., Portrait of, 126
Groth Patents, The, 678
Guttaline, 316
H.
Halifax lechnical School, 217
HamUton, F. T., Electricity and the Navy, 442, 460
Hammer, W. J., American Exhibits at Ciystal
Palace, 611
Hammer, W. J., Pilkington- White Meter, 486
Hammer, W. J., Ries Regulating Lamp Socket, 249
Hammer, W. J., Visit to London, 145
Hammond. R., Portrait of, 196
Hampstead and Charing Cross Railway, 66, 146, 147,
170
Hastings Electric Light Company, Meetings, etc, 123
Hay, A., Appointed to University College, Notting-
ham, 26
Heaters, Electric, for Tramcars, 193
Heating, Electric, 26, 127. 172, 241, 206
Hedgeh(MB and Snakes, MO
Hedges, K., '< Continental Electric Light Stations,"
Hellesen's Hn Batteries, 180
Henley, W. T., Biography of, 507
Hering, C, Ampere-Centimetre — A Measure of
Electromagnetism, 636
High-Tenslou Experiments at Crystal Palace, 243,
365,393
High-Tension Experiments, N. Tesla, 401, 427, 448,
470, 496. 619, 643, 666, 698, 608
High-Tension Experiments at Society of Arts, L.
Fyke, 579
Hindrance, 121
History of Electrici^ E. C. Cracknell, 42
Hodges and Todd's Works Burnt, 170, 195
Hoists and Pumps, Electric, 313
Holden, Captain H. C. L., Portrait of, 198
Holmes and Co., J. H., Annual Dinner, 28
Holmes, G. C. V., Electricity Applied to Metallnrg}',
92,136,166
Holmes, J. H., and Ca, Shiplighting Contracts, 685
Hopkinson, Dr., Report on Chester Lighting, 696
Hopkinson, J., and Wilson, £., Dynamo - Electric
Machinery, 900
HorUcultural Exhibition, The, 436
House of Commons Signal Light, 459
House-to-House Electric Light Company, Meetings,
etc, 384, 368
Houston, E. J., Early Conception of Magnetic Field,
873
Huddersfleld, System of Lighting to be Introduced,
582
Hughes, Prof. D. E., New Use for the Microphone,
196
Hughes, Prof. D. B., OQ as an Insulator, 287
I.
InooBdesoent Lamps :
Average Hours of Lighting in Germany, 78
Benham and Frond's FiUings for, 80
Davis, J., and Son's, New fittings, 483
Edison-Swan, Discount on, 838
Edison-Swan Patents, 219
Life of, 206
for Omnibuses, 218
Osier's Fittings for, 126
Portable, for Theatres, 577
for Sigoalling at Sea, 90
Tests of, at Paris, 500
Theft of, 26
with Transformer for Street Use, 19, 83
Increasing Revenue, 389
Increasing the Supply. 872, tfl
India, Development or, 361
Indian Railway Carriages, Lighting of, 564
Indian Telegraphs, 66, 217
India Rubber, etc., Company, Meetings, etc., 190
India Rubber, etc. Company, Work of the Year,
Indisrubber, Discovery of, 601
Indiarubber Factory in Paris, 1
Indicator for Railway Stations, 195
Indo-European Telegraph Company, Meetings, etc
430
Insulating Material, Behaviour of, H. B. and W. F
Bourne, 279
Insulating Material, Grifilths's. 122
Internal Illumination of Buildings, W. H. Preeoe,
491
International Electric Subway Company, Meetings
etc, 834
Inventions, G. E. Emerson, 554
Ipswich, Conversazione atJ* 458
Ireland, Private Lighting Exhibition in, 6
Iron for Dynamos, 678
Iron, Measurement of Magnetic Properties of. T.
Gray, 698
Isle df Man Exhibition, 410, 488
Islington Electric Light Company, 26, 248, 628
J.
JackSvin, Colonel R. R., Portrait of, 198
Jarman Electric Cars at Croydon, 3
Joel and <*o.'s Exhibits at Crystal Palace, 158
Joel, H. F., and Co., Lane Fox Patents, 849
Johannesburg Electric Company and the Transvaal
Government, 263
Johnson and Phillips, Dynamo Department Dinner,
53
Johnson and Phillips's ExhibitB at Crystal Palace, 82,
222,869
Johnstone's Underground Conduits. 26, 182
Joule's Thermometers, Prof. Schuster on, 49
JwimaiqfOas Liffhting v. Electric Lighting, 180
Journals, New, 25, 172
Junior Engineering Society, Holmes on Electricity
and Metallurgy, 92, 136, 166
K.
Kapp, G., Efficiency of Dynamos. 87
Kapp, Gisbert, Portrait of, 64, 102
Kapp, G., Report on Taunton Installation, 474, 681
Kellner's Kectrc^ytic Processes, 2
Kelvin. The Board of Trade Unit. 433, 446, 469
Kennedy, A. B. W., Electric Lighting in London,
162, 186, 289. 288
Kennedy, A. W. B., Report on Dundee Lighting, 602
Kennedy, R., Distribution anl Transmission, 482,
440
Kensington and Knightsbridge Company's Experi-
ence of Accumulators, 88 ; Meetinn, etc, 262, 287
Keswick Electric Light Company, Meetings, etc,
239
Keyed Casing and Cover for Wires, 606
Kilgour, M. H., Alternating Currents, 11, 41
KQowatt Balance, Sir William Thomson's, 618
Kimberley Exhibition. 170, 664
King's College Prize Winner, 601
King's College, Siemens Laboratory at, 193
Lahore, Electrical Lecture at, 656
Laing, Wharton, and Down, 101
Lalnff, Wharton, and Down's Exhibits at Crystal
Palace, 299, 391, 487
Lambeth Provisional Order Revoked, 146
Lamp Pillars. Electric, for London, 816
Lane Fox v. Kensington and Knightsbridge Company,
800 834
Lane 'Fox Patents, The, 338, 349
Largest Expert's Fee on Record, 601
Lame Lidblting, 149, 166
Lathe Attachment. Rogers's, 19
Lauffen-Frankfort Transmission Plant, 2, 37, 74
Launch, Electric, New, Series of Trials on the Clyde,
614
Launches, Electric, at Crystal Palace, 161, 435
Launches, Electric, General Electric Company's, 97.
266, 338, 862, 386
Launches, Electric, General Power and Traction
Company, 316
Launches, Electric, in the Italian Na^, 49
Launches, Electric, on the Thames. 579
Launches, Electric, Woodhouse and Rawson's, 607
Launches, Electric, Work of the Year, 89
Launches, Electric, at the World's Fair, 886
Launches, Electric, W. B. Sargeant's, 361, 410, 460,
507
Lawrence-Hamilton, J., Coast Communication, 197
Lead-Covered Conductors, 889
VOL. DLT
KewSeriMLj
INDEX.
rsniipiameiit to " The ElecMcal BngioMtv
L June 24, 1898.
Leading ArtlelMi :
Alteraate-Carrent Motors, 877
Bradford Tnunwayi, M4 «
'Btu LightiDg. 640
Chatham Accident, The, 8S8
Crowner't QaesLSlS
C^tal Palace Exhibition and Local Authoritiee,
106
Deputations at the Palace, 804
" Earth," 348
Edison, 888
Electric and Cable Railways, 469
Electricity and Sanitation, 468
Forbes, Prof., on Distribution, 109, 133, 1S7, 181
French Elmore Company, The, 397
Increasing the Supply, 3TB, 481
Journal qf Gas Lxgkting 0. Electric Lighting, 180
Keep Outside, 301
Lane Fox v. Kensington and Knightsbridge, 300,
Lame Lighting, 156
Metropolitan Company, The, 445
Mr. Preeoe at the British Architects, 493
New Telephone Company, The, 481
Niagara, 065
Netting Hill, 349
Oil Insulation, 876
Pacific Cable, The, 396
Pains and Penalties, 641
Projected Electric Railways, The, 517
Reriew of the Year, 18, 36, 60. 84
Royal Agricultural Show at Warwick, 610
8t James's Electric Light Company, 109
St Pancras, 480
South American Cable Company, 481
Taunton, 8T7, 517
Telephone Problem, The, 888
Telephony, 445
Telephony and the Post Office, 384
Tesla, 138
Threepence, 564
Traction, 588
Western Counties, eto., Telephone Amalgamation,
611
Work in View, 498
Leeds, Extonsion of Provisional Order for, 193
Barnet Arbitration Case, 433, 481, 506, 529
Brush Corporation v. King, Brown, and Co., 337,
356
Clough and Co. v. National Electric Supply Com-
pany, 551
English and Scottish luTestment Company 0.
Brunton, 480
Lane Fox Case, The. 861, 389, 361
Pink V. Electricity Supply Company of Spain, 602
Savory and Moore v. London Electric Supply Cor-
poration, 356
Western Counties Telephone Company v. Bourne-
mouth Electric Supply Company, 574
Leonard, H. W., New System of Electric Propulsion,
Liege University Prospectus, 291
Life-belt Cushions, 122
Life in Motion, Prof. McKendrick's Lectures on,
25,52
Lifts, Electric, for RaUways, 123
Lighthouse Beams. 436
Lighthouses and Electric Light, 146, 4S4
Lighthouses and Ships, Communication with, 29, 51,
145, 172, 103
Lightliouses and Ships, Royal Commission on, 6U1
Lightning, Accidents from, 100
Limtoing Arresters and Non- Arcing Metals, A. J.
Wurts, 341
Lightning, Death from, 193
Li^t Standard Committee, 109
Idteratnre :
Alabaster, Gatehouse, and Co., Berly's Universal
Electrical Directory, 566
Hedges, K., Continental Electric Light Stations, 611
Russell, S. A., Electric Light Cables, 133
Sicaepanski, F. von, BibUotbeca Elcctrotechnlca,
556
Lithanode Miners' Lamp. 54
Liverpool College, F. G. Bailey Appointed Lecturer
to, 818
Liverpool Electric Football Club, 123
Liverpool Electric Supply Company, Meetings, eto..
I4verpool Lighting, Report of City Engineer, 883
Liverpool Overhead Railway, Meetings, eto., 1, 27,
167
Liverpool Supply Company and the Corporation, 74,
08, 122, 147, 173, 194
Liverpool Tramway Company and Electric Traction,
100, 193
Uvesey, H., Weaving by Electricity, 643
Lloyd and Lloyd's Exhibits at Crystal Palace, 390
Local Authorities and the CrysUl Palace Exhibition,
106
lA>oomotive, Electric, The Largest, 361
Locomotive, Electric, Thomson- Houston, 1
Locomotives, Electric, S. P. Thompson, 548, 668
London Chamber of Commerce, 89, 97, 818, 218, 508
London Chamber of Commerce, Annual Meeting, 648
London Connty ConnoU:
By-laws as to Overhead Wires, 89
and Deptford Tramways, 001
Electric Lighting of Offices, 98
and Electric Vehicles, 147
General Powers BUI, 170
and Hospital Lighting, 433
UghtDii^ Conductors, Mr. Handson, 171
Main-Laying Sanctioned by, 100, 148, 169
Model Order, Amendmento to, 330
and Proposed Electric Railways, 146, E32, 547
and Provisional Orders, 124
Report of Parliamentary Committee on Electric
and Cable Railways, 474
and Subways, 292, 314. 339, 5U6
M Tachnloal Educatlou, 533
London Conntj ConnoU {pontinued) :
and the Telephone Bills, 169
and Theatres, 219
and Tramways, 219
London Electric Supply Corporation, Meetings, ^e.,
3U. 831
London, Methods of Electric Lighting in, A. B. W.
Kennedv, 168. 186, 889, 853
London, New Electric Railways for, 18, 60, 146, 171
London-Paris Telephone, 97
London Subways, 292, 314, 606
London Tramway Company and Electric Traction,
49
London University Examinershlp, 217
Lundberg's Exhibits at the Crystel Palace, 886
Lundy Island Cable, 123
Lundy Island, Wreck at, 193
Machinery, Taxation of, 41
Maclntyre and Co., Work of the Year, 61
Madras Tramways, 1, 170, 267
Madras, Utilisation of Water Power at, 811
Magnetic Boot, The. 666
Magnetic Field, Early Conception of, E. J. Houston,
373
Magnetic Pole, Unit, 77
Magnetic Properties of Iron, Measurement of, T.
Gray, 693
Magnetisation, Changes Produced by. In Iron Wires,
S. Bldwell, 581
Magnetism of Iron, Prize for Best Work on, 400
Magneto, Influence of Steam on, 106
Mail Car, Electric, In St Louis, 291
Blalno. Kleotrio Light :
at Bath, Expansion and Contraction of 74, 109
Crompton's at Crystal Palace, 846
at Derby, 218
at Exeter, 363
at Goole, 195
Grounding the Neutral Wire, 409
for Hull, 338,482
Johnstone's System of, 26, 188
in Liverpool, 289
at Ludlow, 385
at Manchester, 337
in Paris, Alteration of, 193, 409
Review of Russell's Book on, 133
in St. Paiionu, 861
Systems of. Cantor Lectures, by Prof. Forbes, 109
and Transformers for Supplying Energy to Crystal
Palace ExhibiUon, 174
Woric Sanctioned by London County Council, 100
148.169
Manchester Central Station, Dynamos for, 316 ; Clerk
of Works for. 530
Manchester, Electrical Exhibition for, 266
Manchester Ship Canal, Launches for, 266. 337
Manchester Town Hall, Tenders Wanted for Wiring,
601
Manganln, 221
Mansfield, Price of Public Lamp» at, 193
Manual for Ofllce Use, 103
Maquay Syndicate's Exhibits at Crjrstel Palace, 568
Marson Primary Battery Company, 90
Measuring Instruments, Electrical, Nlblett and
Ewen, 17, 66, 169, 806, 301
Measuring Instrumento, Electrical, J. Swinburne,
429
Measuring Instruments, Sir William Thomson's, 518
Medical Electricity, 481
Medical Electricity and Mr. H. N. Lawrence, 75, 110
Medical Electricity, D. Rodan, 665
Messenger Call-Box, Automatic, 219
Metallic Tubing, Flexible, 66
Metallurgy and Electricity, G. C. V. Holmes, 98, 136,
166
Metals, Non- Arcing, 341
Meteorological Society's Exhibition, 241, 267
Motors:
Brillle's, 566
DonnLson's, 179
Ferranti's, 50, 529
Recording Electrical Energ>, C. H. Wordlugham,
569, 689, 604
Thomson's, Prof., at Paris, 506
Thomson's, Sir Wm., at Cirystal Palace, 103
Metropolitan Company, The, 445
Metropolitan Electric and Cable Railways, Joint
Select Committee's Report on, 686
Metropolitan Electric Supply Company's Balance-
sheet, 641
Metropolitan Electric Supply Company, Meetings,
etc 463. 477
Mica, Wiggins and Sons' Exhibit at Crystal Palace, 82
Microphone, New Use for, Prof. D. E. Hughes, 196
Milan Exhibition, 409
Milk Ivory, 122
Milk, TesUng by Electricity. 433
Miners' Lamps,D. Tommakl. 338
Miners' Lamp. The Lithanode, 54
Mining and General Company's Fairy Lamps, 2, 107
Mining and General £iectric Lamp Company's
Exhibito at Crystal Palace ExhibiUon, 64. 107
Mining and Electricity, D. S. Blgoe, 188
Mining Engineers, Proposed London Institute, 75
Mix and Genest Company, Meetings, eto., 839
Moore's Flying Machine, 109, 194
Moral Electricity, 411
Morse Line. The First, 25
Moscow, Electrical Company for, 410
Moscow ExhibiUon, 97
Motors:
Alternate-Current, W. Stanley, jun., 880
at Baltimore, 438
First Patent for, 3
for Flying Machines, 337
Joel's, 158
Kennedy Alternate-Current, 201
Modem, W. B. Sayers, 345, 376, 398
Motors iponiinued) :
for Ploughing, 26
Rotary Current, 37. 77. 106 ; Erratum, 171
Single-ReducUon, O. K. Wheeler, 418
Tesla's, 293
Time Cut-outs for, 241
for Tramways, Graff Baker, 557
in the Workshop, 184
Mr. Preece at Uie British Architects, 493
Multiphase Patents, Bradley's, 494
Municipal Engineers : Vlslte to London, 218 ; Meet-
ing of, 878 ; Visit to Crystal Palace, 879
Mutual Telephone Company, Meetings, eto., 46, 50,
73, 196
N.
Napier's Speed Indicator, 187
National Klootrlo Light Assoolation:
Alternate-Current Motors, W. Stanley, Jun., 880
Boiler Firing, R. Hammond, 874
Changing of Badge, 500
High-Tenslon Currents Underground, £. A. Leslie,
873
MeeUng at Buffalo, 873 '
Overhead Construction, E. F. Peck, 875
Papers Read at, 875
Reports of Committees, 875
Size and Efficiency in Transformers, L. B. SUlwell,
878
Transmission of Energy, H. Ward Leonard. 873
Transmission of Power from Niagara, C. Hering,
874
NaUonal Electric Supply Company, Preston, Supper,
26
NaUonal Telephone Bill, Opposition to, 217
NaUonal Telephone Company and Sheffield Ex-
change, 265
National Telephone Company, Liverpool Employees'
Dinner, 145
NaUonal Telephone Company, the Presidency, 27, 96
NaUonal Telephone Company's Bill, 27, 75, 07, 145,
109
NaUonal Telephone Company, Meetings, eto . 680
NaUonal Telephone Service and the London Chamber
of Commerce, 818
NewcasUe and District Electric Lighting Company,
Meetlngs^to., 188
NewcasUe Electric Supply Company, MeeUngs, eto.,
180 143
NewcasUe, Electrical Distribution at, A. W. Heavi-
side and R. C. Jackson. 536, 678
New Electric Launch, 514
New Firm, 680
New Journal, 198
New South Wales Electrical Club, Presidential
Address. 42
Newspapers and Quacks, 84
New Telephone Company, 481, 520
New Telephone Company's BUI, 27, 97, 160, 217, 218
Newton Electrical Engineering Works, Year's Busi-
ness, 40
New Zealand Engineering Company, 145
Niagara, 865
Niagara, UtUlsaUon of. 73, 481, 663
Nlblett's Book on Secondary Batterim, 07
Nlblett and Ewen, Practical Electrical Measuring
Instruments, 17, 66, 169. 806, 301
Nlckel-Phitlng, 609
Northampton Electric Light Company, MeeUngs,
etc 230
North', Barker, Introduction to Qualitative Chemical
Analysis. 160, 866. 386, 363, 394
Northern Electric Wire Company, Meetings, eto., 168
NoteUon, M. Hospitaller and, 172
Netting Hill Electric Light Company, Meetings, eto.,
334
Nott, Prof. C. G., Resistance of Cobalt, 104
O.
Obitnary Notioos :
Alexander, General R., 171
Leyland, F. R., 27
Prime, T., 517
Watt, A., 86
Willans, P., 617, 529
Objectionable Features in Telephone Bills, 105
Occlusion of Hydrogen, 399
Oil as an Insulator, Prof. D. E. Hughes, 257
Oil Insulation and David Brooks, 167, 876
Old Students' AssociaUon, Concert, 265
Oliver, E. E., Lecture at Lahore, 555
Omnibus LlghUng, 457, 484. 529, 640
Organ, Electric, 275. 533, 555
Organs, Electrical, Control of, 5
Oriental Telephone Company, Meetings, eto., 383,
431
Original Morse Exhibit at the World's Fair. 554
Osier's SUnd at Crystal Palace, 126
OUey, Electric Bells and Firem n at, 553
Oxford Central Stotlon, 506 ; Opening of, GUI
Oxford Lighting, 38
Oxide of uopper. Poisoning by, 242
Oxygen and Ether, Prof. Dewar, 244
Ozone Inhaler, 361
P.
Pacific Cable, Proposed, 170. 217, 396
Paddlngton Central StaUon, 217
Pains and PenalUes. 641
Pamphleto Received. 195, 3S6
Paper-making by Electricity, 386, 434
Paris Exhibition, 26
Paris, Gas Explosion at, 602
Paris-London Telephone, 97
Paris Mains, 193
Parsons Steam Turbine Dynamo, 34, 63, 86, 110
Partington, Mr., Killed by Lightning at Salford, 529
Patent Ofllce Library, 25
Patente lists, see eacn issue
SmmlnMDt to ** Hw Eleetrlcal Engineer,"!
June M, mOi. J
INDEX.
[
VOL. IX.
New Seriet.
Ffttenon and Cooper, a Dliolaimer. 147
Patenou and Cooper, Work of the Year, It
Paul, R. W., Ayrton and Mather's Oalvanometer, OS
Paxman't BoUen at Crvttal Palace Exhibition, M
Pazman's and Plane's Joint for Boilers, 69
Perpetual Syphons, 600, 570
Personal, 1, 2JI7, 73, 145
PhUippopoUs Exhibition, 1
Fhonopore, The, 289
Phonoporic Telephony, The Timet on, 371, 885
Fhysieal Soel«ty:
Akeroyd, W., Law of Colour in Relation to Chemi-
cal ConstituUon, 406
Annual Meeting, ill
Ayrton, W. E., and Mather, T., Ballistic and other
Oalrsnometers, 696
Baily, W., Construction of a Colour Map, 406
Ednr, £., and Stansfleld, H., Instrument for
Measuring Magnetic Fields. 645
Gladstone, J. U., and Hibbert,W., Change of E.M.F.
in Secondary Batteries jm, 500
Oleed, W., A Mnemonic Table, 406
Kilgonr, M. U., Alternating Currents, 11, 41
Nalder, F. H. , Some Electrical Instruments, 645
Paul, B. W., Some Electrical Instruments, 289, 387
Thompson, S P., E.M.F., Representation of, in
Diagrams, 304
Thompson, 8 P., Supplementary Colours, 212
Pink, E. O., Experiments with Alternators in Parallel
at Madrid, 58i), flOl
PlanU and Electric Ught, 98
Plant, Electric, Sales of, 409, 460
Pliers. Unirersal, 217
Ploughing by Electric Motors, 20
Pocket Lamps for Omnibuses, 218
Poisoning by Oxide of Copper, 242
Polytechnic, London, and the World's Fair, 001
Popp System in Paris, 2
Portelectric System, 2
Portrmlts of Kleotiioal Bni^eers :
Albright, J. F., 64
Ayrton, Prof., 6
Baker, Sir B., 125
Binsiranger, Oustav, 126
Crookes, William, 6
Bsson, W. B., 125
Gordon, J. E. U., 04
Gray, R. K . 04
Orindle, O. A.. 126
Hammond, R., 196
Holden, CapUin H. C. L., 196
Introduction to Publication of, 12
Jackson, Col. R. Raynsford, 196
Kapp, Gilbert, 04
Preece, W. fl., 6
Reckenzaun, Anthony, 04
Salomons, SUr David, 0
Stuart, Captain A. M., 196
Taylor, Colonel Du Plat, 198
Wallace, R. W., 126
Webb. F. H., 0
Webber, General, 0
PorUmouth Lighting, 09, 122, 100, 193
Power, Electric, for the City, 97
Power Transmissloii :
at Aachtthal, Germany, 170
Award of Prize in France for Best Project for. 577
at Bern, 861
Bigge. 1>. 8., at Newcastle, 506
at Ce} Ion, 315
Development of, 241
in France, 840
at Beilbronu, 532
in luly, 361
at Lauffen, 2, 37. 74, 363
at Lyons, France, 578
at Madrid, 4.'i7
at Mergelstettin, 289
at Newcastle, 301
at Niagara, 529
at Niagara, Prof. Forbes, 481, 063
Present Condition of, J. A. G. Ross, 387
in South Africa, 410
on St. Louis River, 361
from Vyrnwy to Liverpool, 433
Preece, W. H., HU Book on the Telephone Trans-
lated into Fpanish. 2r>
Preete, W. H., Internal Illumination of Buildings,
Preece, W. H., Portrait of, 6
Preece, W. H. , Report on Worcester Lighting:. 323
PresenUUou to Mr. 0. Wilson. 387
Press, llie, and Quacks, 84
Preston National Electric Supply Company's Supper,
26
Prime, Thos., ITie Late. 517
PrinUng by AltcmateCurrent Motors, 217
Pritchett Bros., 47
Proctor, F. E., Prize Winner at Kings College, 001
Projected Electric Railways, The, 517
Projectors, Electric Light, for the Navy, 481
PropuUlon, Electric, New System of, H. W Leonard,
Provisional Orders for London, 124
Purchase of the Telephone System, 193, 581
Pm^due, Indiana, New Electrical Laboratory, 507
iy*f. and Harris Alternate-Current Dynamo, 406
Q.
Quacks snU the Newspapers, 84
R.
Railway Clearing House, Tenders for, 200
RaUwayo. Klootrlo :
Bjkker slrtet and Waterloo, 18, 05. 140, 148, 170
at Berlin, 313
Bills, I'arliamentary Committee on, 243, 681
Ballwurs, Sleotrte (eorUinued):
at Brixton, 1
CentnOLondon, 18, 05, 146, 170, 581, 602
City and South London, 50. 78, 146, 108, 170
City and South London and Spurgeon's Orphanage,
194
and the Commissioners of Sewers, 197
Deferred in Chicago, 194
for the East End, Proposed, 532
Edison's Latest, 75, 99
in France, 78
Great Northern and City, 18. 05, 98, 170, 681
Hampstead and Charing Cros*, 06, l^M^?, 170
High-Speed in Amerlea and France, 460
High-Speed between St Louis and Chicago, 680
High-Speed between Vienna and Budapest, 172
I^ngton Extension, 18, 05, 73, 146, 166. 170, 195
Joint Committee of Lords and Commons on, 220
Joint Select Committee's Report on, 526
at Kansas, 467
for London, New, 18, 65. 171, 547
at Marseilles, Accident on, 385
Motion In the House on, 291
for Naples, 886, 410
Overhead at Liverpool, 1, 27, 107
for Paris, 73, 361, 412, 577
Parliamentary Committee on, 361
for Poland, 386
Portelectric System, 2
Portrush and Giant's Causeway, 131
Prolected, The, 617
at Pueblo, Colorado, 121
Royal Exchange and Waterloo, 18, 05, 73
between St. Louis and Chicago, 90
at Sessach-Gelterklnden, 388
Underground in Berlin, 130
ITnicycle at Chicago, 1
in the United SUtes, 409
Waterloo and City, 116, 148, 169, 555
Railway Station Indicator, 195, 483
Railway Train-Lighting Plant, Brush Company's,
613. 531
Ransomes' Cyclometer, 122
Ransomes, Slni9, and Jefferies, Year's Work, 41
Raphael, R.. The Editor Requested to Retract, 641
Raworth and Sellon, Appointed Managers, Brush
Company, 97
Rayleigh, Lord, Appointed Lord - Lieutenant of
Essex, iS
Reading Ughtlng, 70
Rechniewski, Heating of Dynamos, 364
Reckenzaun, A., Load Diagrams of Tramways nnd
Cost of Traction, 306, 328, 382
Reckenzaun, A., Portrait of, 04
Recorders 265
Recovering Gold from the Sea, 409
Refuse Destnictor, Contract for, at Leicester, 290
Registered Electrical Contractors, 193
Resistance of Cobalt, 194
Reuter's Telegram Company, Meetings, etc., 651
Reriews of Books {ge^ LiteraturK)
Review of the Year, 12. 36, 60, 84
Ries and Henderson's System of RlvetinK, 344
Ries Regulating Lamp Socket, W. .1. Hammer. 249
Ritchie. C, Electric Light Supply, 89
Rival Illuminant, A, 484
Riveting by Electricity, 508
Riveting, Ries and Henderson's System of, 344
Robev and Co., Work of the Year, 14
Rockhampton, Queensland, Lighting, 149
Rogers's Lathe Attachment. 19
Rooke, T., Design and Construction of Dynamos, 231
Rotary-Cturent Apparatus, 37, 77; Erratum, 106;
Arrangement for Demonstrating, 289
Rotary CurrenU, Tesla and, 74, 111
Royal Agricultural Show at Warwick, 610
Royal Cornwall Exhibition, 533
Royal Institution Lectures, 25, 49, 52, 121, 3.17, 409,
433. 458, 570
Royal Militanr Tournament, Lighting at, 506
Royal Society, Conversazione, 437 ; Candidates for,
481
Royal Society, Pipers Read at, 73, 265, 313, 521, 693
Rubber Trust, American, 337
Russell's Book on Cables, Review of, 183
8.
St. Elmo's Fire, 25
St. Helens and Electric Lighting, 194
St James's Electric Light Company, Meetings, etc..
94, 109. UO, 143
St Pancras, 420
St Pancras Lighting SUtion, View of, 467
St. Pancras, New Technical Institute for, 601
St Pancras Vestry and Electric Lighting, 26, 75
St Petersburg Exhibition, 97, 121, 170
Salisbury, Test of Electrical Apparatus at, 553
Salomons, Sir David, Portrait of, 6
Sandwell's Electric Travelling Cranes, 399
Sargeant's Electric Launches at Crystal Palace. 161
Saving Power on Tramways, 193
Sawmill, Electric, 314
Sayers, W. B., Dynamos as Motors, 346, 376, 398
Scarborough, Provisional Order for, 217
Schanschiefr s Battery, 100, 122
School of Electrical Engineering Certificates, 315
Science Conferences at ToynbT e Hall, 337, 387
Scott and Mountain's Combinea Engine and Dynamo,
ScoU and Mountain, Work of the Year, 40
Scott's Supper Rooms, Fire at, 610, 020
Search-Lights in Battleships, 435
Search-Lights for the French Army, 99
Sea Serpent at Last, 97
Secretaries' Institute, 169
Sectional Standards Company, Exhibit at Crystal
Palace, 513
Sellon, J., His Experience of Electric Lighting, 124
Sellon. S., Traction, lU Financial Aspect, 269, 315
Serpollet Steam Engine, 290
Shaftesbury and its Lighting, 553
Sheffield, Meeting of Engineers at, 409
Shetland. Telmrniphic Communication with, 241
Shiels-EliioU Electric Train Signals, S8
ShipUghUng, 26, 196, 196, 269, 468, 481, 482, 530, 665
Ship Machinery, Catalogue of, 244
Ship's Course Indicator, Wflea's, 12T
Bhoolbred, J. N., Bradford Electricity Supply, 400,
449
Sidewalk, Electric, 99
Siemens, A., Alternate-Current Investigations, 186i
209
Siemens Bros.' Exhibits at Crystal Palace Exhibition,
80,128,164
Siemens Cable Transformer, 278
Siemens and HaUke in America, 315
Siemens Laboratory at King's College. 193
Siemens's Works. Visit to, 301 ; Deseription of, 461
Signalling with Incandescent Lamps at Sea, 99
Sifcock, E. J^ Lecture on Electric Lighting, 167
Sims-Edison Lifeboat, 243
Sims-Edison Torpedo, 123, 170, 243
Sky Timepiece. 107
Smeeton and Page, 47
Smith, F. J., Electric Tram Chronograph, 556
Smith, F.. and Sons' Exhibits at Crystal Palace. 272
Smith, G., and Co.'s Electric Lamp Ladder Pillars,
615
Smith and Sons' Exhibits at Crystal Palace, 227
Smoke Preventer. 314
Smoke and Profits in Paris, 411
Smythe and Payne, Wiring at Crystal Palace, 273
Snow Causes Electric Light Wires to Leak, 74
Snowstorms, 885
Societe Internationale des Electriciens, Change of
Address. 601
Society of Arte Medal, 507
Sofia. Canalisation of, 121
South African Cables, 1
South American Cable Company, 421
Southend Marine Lake, 25
Southend Pier Tramway, 147
South Staffs. Tramway and Electric Traction, 62
Spalding. Additional Gas Mains for, 601
Spanish Telegraphs, 218 ; Strike of Operators, 601
Speed Indicator, Napier's, 127
Spencer, J.. Exhibit at Crystal Palace, 390
Sprague, J. T., Electrolytic Law of Least Energy,
109; Erratum. 133
Spurgeon's Orphanage and City and South London
Railway, 194
Staffs. County Council and Technical Instruction,
461
State Telephones, 602
Steam, Influence of, on Magnets, 196
Steam Turbine, Parsons, Economy of, 34, 68, 86, 110
Steatite Insulators, 289
Stone- Jarving by Electricity, 220
Storage Battery Traction, J. K. Pumpelly, 461
Stoves, Thermo-electric, 148
Strand Electricity Supply Company, The, 607
Street Lamp, Swinburne's Transformer, 19, 83
Strike on the Tyne, 146
Stuart, Capt. A. M., Portrait of, 196
Stuart's Sea Telephone, 16
Submarine Boat, Electric, 580
Submarine Cables Trust, Meetings, etc., 478
Sunderland, New Post Office for, 577
Swan, J. W., Electro- VIeUIlurgy, 458. 670
Swinburne and Co.'s Exhiiilt at Crystal Palace, 611
Swinburne and Co.'s Trjinafirmers at (>ystal Palace
83, 365, 393
Swiubunie and Co., Work of the Year, 61
Swinburne, J., Electrical Measuring Instruments,
Swinburne's Electrostatic Instrument, 19
Swinburne's Transformer Street Lamp, 19. 83
Switchboard for Glasgow, Tender a Invited for, 482
Switchboards for Hull, Tenders Invited for, 505
Switches and the Chatham Accident, 278
Switches, General Electric Company's, 176
Switches, Joel's, 153
Switches for Transformers, Ferranti's Automatic, 51
Sydenham Central Station, 30.39.89, 165; Assess-
ment of, 433
Sydney Technical College, Lecturer Appointed, 289
Sydney University and Electrical Engineering, 98
Syphon, Perpetual, 509, 579
Systems of Traction, 195
T.
Talbot, H., Appointed to Nottingham, 481
Tangier, Cable-Laying at, 210
Tanning, Electric, 73, 267
Taunton, 277, 617
Taunton Central SUtion, Purchaie of, 1, 74, 171, 242,
284, 313. 38.'>, 435, 458, 531, 580, 001
Taunton Installation, <}. Kapp's Report on, 474, 531
Taunton Lighting. Report on by Committee, 284
Taylor, Col. Du Plat, Portrait of, 196
Technical Education, by Prof. W. E. Ayrton, 112
Technical Instruction, Organiser Wanted, 409
Technical School for Hartlepool, 457
Telautograph, Grny's, 2
Telegraph Apparatus, Tenders Wanted for, 530
Telegraph Construction Company, Meetings, etc. ,108,
216,238
Telegraphic Comnm •Ication between Lighthouses.
193
Telegraphic Service for Nicaragua, 337
Telegraphing without Wirev, 100
Telegraph Posts and tlie Norfolk County Council,
Telegraph, Proposed Extension to Gilgit, 194
Telegraph Rates to Australia, 386
Telegraph Stores, Tenders Inrited for, 529
Telegraphs Bill, New, 602
Tetophone :
in Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool, 11, 06
In the Army, 411
Anders Elliot and Clietham-Strode's Exhibit! at
Crystal Palace, 271
Band Music by, 219
Belgian System, The, 280
in Belgium, SUte Control of, 1, 385
Bishop Cable at Crystal Palace, 618
in BrindUi, 121
in Bulgaria, 98
Charges in Sheffield. 483
in Chichester, 145
(
INDEX.
to " Tba SmMmI Englne«r,"
Jmie M, taw.
In-BeilMt, IbB, Opcolng at. ti
M N*w HOQlUl, Kt
Owanl ZlasMo Oompuir'i XxhlblM aC CrjiUI
Id ■ OUaitaw Chonb, 146
»t OUisoir nn Briuda SMIloni, 881
OloTsr, W. T., uid &.'( Exhibit at (Irrital PiUm,
(U
>nd tha OonrnmHt, 3M
ftt HonM and lu Uie Fluid, IM
InUniBtiaoil Blmtilo Campuy'i KihlUt at
Omial PdHW, IIT
Intcnuban, SIS
to Iralud, Its
LoDdoD'BotdeWu, IBI
Loni-Stotuwa Amantiu, Na*, (B
Lout DUIUM In rmim, Kn
Inm IHitinnn ID Saw Totk, HI
lidt, 606, 677
id PaHa, 1!1
N«» OompuiT'a BUI, ST, BT, IW, tlT,
Kaw Coopuv In Londoa, 4W, 6«B
In tba Kortb, Ml
Paila-nrMiali Una, Tha, ISB
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In tba Wt^a, MI, MB, (63
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TabpbaaaCaninMjof*' — ' "— " '~ •"
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la'abpMlmanU, 14. Ul, 131, 167, leB, Hi, 611
TaiU'l ExparlmaDta and J. E. H. Goraim, IBS
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m,«M,arHi,HiiSS3,«e
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Taatlng Feai at BinnlnghBin, 313
TeaUns Inatmuanla, Naldet'a, IBS
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marin^oDa^lbe Opan, Ul
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nmapanoa Mt Vnit at Bt. Pauoraa, HI
TbaniBOn, 8. P., " Dinamo-Klaotilo M*chlnan,'HB
Xbompam, B. P., Daotrlo LaoomoUTta, Stt, MB
Tbonmaoa, 8. P., Portnlt at, T3
TbomaaB Baotrto Waldlat Froeaaa. W
-*- — -wHouatOP Elaetrte Tramwja, ill
m ol, 117,
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tba FaUce, im
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for Blackpool, 117,
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tor OliKOw, m, 14, Ul, 17S, IW, 143, 630
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Trollen In Brooklm, 16, 73
Trollai Tiamwaji W. Olbaon Carar. IM, MT, MS
TroUar, A. P., Dlitilbatlon and Uaamraineat ot
iUnmtaaUoD, MD
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Bg, nailUa M
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Vahldai, Blecldo, 3, 141
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(. E. Tbomaon, 36S; IT. 0.
Walkar, & F., Compariion at Cryrtal Palaca Eibtbt
tlODB rf 1381 and ISBt, IM
Walkar, 8. ¥., DaoonUta HUloci, a
Walkar, B. r. Work of (be Year, Bs
Wallaoa, K. W., Portrait of, lit
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WalaaU U^UnB, Bpadflaatlon of , rfl
Wud Blootrloa] Car Company 'i BDI, 147
WaidlMDardSralamot Uoton at Crntal Pataoa,
Warlboroogh, Damn, and It* LWitlDg, 653
Waita Frodnola, Ml
Wetmoo and Sakar-itreat BallwaT. IS, «B, IM, 148,
170
Welarloo and Cltjr Banwar, 116, 148. 166
Watar aa a Uoani ol Defending a Vort, M
Watar Power, UtUlaatlon at, i, 48, 73, Ul, 170, tU
Water Stonwa, Pnt Forbaa, 193
Watt, A., XlaMnMa at Gold Salta, U, H
Watt, A., OUtDar; HoUoa <^, SI
WsarliH tre BleobiiH^, MS
WoBTliur br BlactrioltT, H. LlTeaar, S43
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WekUug, Electrlo, Thomaoa'i Prooaat, 9B, 186
Waetom and Bratillan Talagrapb Company, Haat-
Ingi, etc., WB. SOt
Wariani Onintiaa aod Bontb Walaa Ttiephmia
Coranani. Haatbua, ate, n4, BN, BU
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Palr,6M
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elc, 191, tU
Waaton Animetan and Voltmetara at Crrital Palaoa,
— -*U
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While, J., Hla ExblUta at Omtd Palaoa, 101
In'i
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WUllami, -i. H. , Inoreaalng Uie Bnpplj, a
Wlmifaorrt lUehlna, The, S3B
Windmill UghUng, 606
Wind Power for daienting Blaotlidtr, 113
Wlrea, Changea Pmdnoad by UagneUiotlon in, R.
BldweuTW
Wlno, Kerad Gating and Carer tor, tW
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at Kendal, IT
London Conn^ Council Br-Uwi, SB
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Patent Pale lor, tsi
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Wire*, UttOwgronnd (t« a^ Mums) :
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Wiring, Andrawa'i Conoentrlc, BM
Wiring Sonaea In the CItj, 170
Wiring Honaeo. J. K. Fabla and Bon, SB7
Wiring Uancbeatar Town Ilall, Tenden Wantad lor,
at Cryital Falnoe,
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Wordlptfiam, C, B., Mateti lor Kaconllng Kloiv
Irloal Energy, ""
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lOB, in. 1*9 : Erratum, MB
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Yorkihlro Collene Free Leeturai
THE
ELECTRICAL ENGINEER.
No. 1, Vol. IX.
LONDON, JANUARY 1, 1892.
Price 3d.
NOTES.
Crystal Palace Szhlbitlon. — The opening of the
Electrical Exhibition, which was fixed for January 1, has
been put off until January 9.
Blarennes. — The town of Marennes, France, has made
the jump from oil to electiicity without passing through
the intermediate stage of gas.
Paris Uffhtliiff. — The Continental Edison Company's
gross receipts for electric lighting during the month of
November, 1891, amounted to 245,61 3f.
Unioyde Sleotrio RoacL — It is said that Chicago is
to have an electric unicycle railroad, to run from Lake-
street to Jackson Park, on which the cars are to run at the
rate of 40 mUes an hour.
Aberdeen Tramways. — A movement is on foot at
Aberdeen to extend the tramway to the Links, and the sea
beach. The electric traction engineers should put in a
word as to their systems.
Factery in Paris. — A factory for manufacture of
^ indiarubber is to be sold by tender in Paris, January 3rd.
Apply M. Navarre, 61, rue des Petits-Champs, or M.
Fauchey, 3, rue de Louvre.
Budapest. — M. Victor Popp has withdrawn his tender
for the supply of compressed air to Budapest on the
ground that as he has no electric light concession, com-
pressed air alone would not pay.
Verviers. — Tenders will be received till 9th February
' for an electric installation for the theatre at Verviers. The
specification will be sent for 2f. and plans for 40f. on
application to M. Ch. Thirion, rue Francb^e, Verviers.
Briffhten Electric Railway. — At the last meeting
of the Brighton Town Council the question of entering into
an agreement for the use of a portion of the foreshore for
the electric railway was brought up, but was adjourned.
Tannten. — The matter of purchase of the Taunton
electric station by the Town Council is still under the
consideration of the Lighting Committee, and nothing
definite will be settled till after the Council meeting in
January.
A Large Ammeter. — The Weston Electrical Instru
ment Company, of Newark, New Jersey, are constructing
which is sup|M)se(l to be the largest ammeter yet made,
to indicate 5,000 amperes, for the Willson Aluminium
Company.
Philippopelis. — An exhibition will be held at Philip-
popolis in September, 1892, and is announced as an excellent
opportunity of introducing new machinery into the Balkan
territory. M. A. Gk)biet, Prague-Karolienthal, Austria,
will furnish particulars.
Personal. — Mr. M'Clean, who used to have charge at
the Grosvenor Gallery and afterwards went to Deptford,
has now sole charge at the Oxford central station. He is
also superintending the exhibit of Elwell-Parker dynamos
at the Crystal Palace Exhibition.
State Control of Belgian Telephones. — The
Belgian Government, states a Renter's telegram of Dec. 30,
has informed the Belgian telephone companies of its
intention to resume from January 1, 1893, the working of
all the telephone lines in Belgium.
ConsnltinflT Engineers.— Mr. Fiank J. Sprague, Dr.
Louis Duncan, and Dr. Cary T. Hutchinson have united to
form a limited company, having offices at 15, Wall-street,
New York, as consulting electrical engineers, to advise and
report upon electrical engineering enterprises.
Liverpool Overhead Railway. — We understand
that, in deference to an agitation amongst the inhabitants
of Princes Park, the promoters of the Liverpool Overhead
Railway have decided to abandon that part of the project
which would bring the railway within the limits of the
park.
Madras Tramways. — At a recent meeting of the
Madras Municipal Commission it was decided that a tram-
way concession be granted to Hutchinson and Co., of
Craven-street, Strand, W.C, on the conditions submitted
by them, subject to a security of Rs. 10,000 being deposited
in the bank.
South African Cables. — ^The Eastern and South
African Telegraph Company, Limited, notifies the restora-
tion of its Aden-Zanzibttur cable, thus re-establishing
telegraphic communication with South Africa by the east
coast. Both the east and west coast routes are now in
working order.
Manchester. — The invitations for sending in tenders
for the Manchester central station are at last issued, and
can be seen in our advertisement columns. The conditions
of tender can be obtained from Mr. C. Nickson, Town Hall,
Manchester, by application in writing, enclosing two
guineas, and the tenders must be received by January 20.
Electric Locomotive. — The Thomson-Houston Com-
pany, not content with the large locomotive we mentioned
the other week, are building another and larger, which is
to draw a train at 40 miles an hour. The pull is to be
6,0001b., and the locomotive will weigh 16 tons, and
develop 250 h.p. Electric railway traction is stepping
along.
Electricity in Mining. — Prof. W. Robinson delivered
last week, at Nottingham University College, one of a
series of lectures arranged by the National Associa^'on
of Colliery Managers. The subject was " Electricity in
Mining." The lecturer dealt technically with the produc-
tion of currents and the application to mines in hauling and
lighting.
Electric Bicycle Trainer. — The |)artner of a well-
known Coventry bicycle rider, who ia an electrician, has
invented an ole^tric ]^^m^<&t^ \)\x\» c;d.\vcv^\» \^<^?&8^ \^^
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY I, 1892.
friend to try it. It is an electric arrangement which will
stick a pin into the rider when his pace falls below a 2*40
pace, though a switch would be required while getting up
speed or stopping.
PontsrpooL — At the last meeting of the Pontypool
Local Board an extensiyely-signed petition, asking the
Board to adopt some sy&tem of lighting other than that of
gas, respecting which serioiis complaints were made, was
presented. After a discussion, Mr. 6. H. David gave
notice that he would propose a resolution dealing with the
subject at the next meeting.
Popp System at Paris. — The third Popp generating
station at the Quai de la Gare, Paris, was opened on the
3rd ult. This station for electric lighting makes the third
the system, which now has plant capable of giving
20,000 h.p. The three services of pneumatic clocks, distri-
bution of power, and distribution of electric light consume
at the present moment 6,000 h.p.
Porteleotrio System. — This system, which dispenses
with motors on its cars by shooting a suitably arranged
trolley through a series of solenoids, has been thoroughly
tested for over a year in one of the suburbs of Boston.
The system is now to be tried on a much larger scale, and
will be tested in actual commercial . service. A company
with 5,000,000dols. has been formed.
Aoten Hill Works. — Mr. Eonald A. Scott, of Acton
Hill Electrical Works, issues a fifth edition of his catalogue,
which illustrates the " Actwell " dynamos and motors, and
more particularly search-light projectors of the Admiralty
pattern, in which department Mr. Scott has had much
success. Details of mirrors and of Admiralty pattern
switchboards of solid type are also given.
Christmas Presents. — We beg to acknowledge, with
thanks, the receipt of blotting pads and almanacks for the
year 1892 from Messrs. Crompton and Co., Limited,
Mansion House-buildings, and from the Electrical Power
Storage Company, of 4, Great Winchester-street. We have
also received a calendar fiom Messrs. T. Fletcher and Co.,
the well-known gas-heating appliance manufacturers, of
Warrington.
New Firm. — We are informed by Sir Frederick Bram-
well that from January 1, 1892, Mr. H. Graham Harris,
who has for so many years been his principal assistant, will
become his partner, and that the business heretofore
practised at 5, Great George-street, Westminster, will be
continued under the style of " Bramwell and Harris," to
whom it is requested all letters on matters of business
should be addressed.
Bradford Tramways. — The Local Government Board
have sanctioned the proposal that the North Bierley Local
Board borrow £10,000 for the purpose of constructing a
tramway from Bradford to Wyke. A draft lease is to be
prepared for the letting of the Bradford and Sheffield
Tramway Company. It is to be hoped that the example
of Leeds, with regard to new tramways, will have a fair
chance of imitation on this line.
Baonp. — ^A sub-committee of the Bacup Town Council
has been appointed to obtain estimates for the laying on of
the electric light, of the probable number of persons who
would become consumers in the event of such light being
provided, and the following constitute that sub-committee :
The Mayor (Mr. Councillor Salmon), Aldermen Greenwood,
Hardman, and Shepherd ; Councillors Barrowclough,
Priestley, Smith, and Stockdale.
GlasfiTOW. — At the meeting of Glasgow Police Commis-
sioners last week. Councillor Gray reported the proposal to
light the principal streets by electricity would be practically
iaken up. The streets proposed to be lighted were Argyle-
street, Jamaica-street, Buchanan-street, Sauciehall-street, and
St George's-square. If they should carry out this scheme
it would make the city more attractive after darkness set
in, and also be a preventative of crime.
Bosphoms. — M. Charles Georgi, who already has the
concession for lighting by gas of Cadikeng and other
Asiatic villages of the Bosphorus, has now petitioned for a
60 years' concession for the lighting by gas or electricity of
Pera and Bechiletach. M. Georgi stipulates to construct a
station, at the expense of £8,000, capable of giving
42,000 cubic metres of gas for 24 hours, or equivalent, and
to pay a royalty of 15 per cent, to the Government
Eleotrioity in Chemioal Industry. — A large inter-
national company is now, we are told, in process of forma-
tion in England to put to practical proof the inventions in
electrolysis made by Mr. C. Kellner, factory director, of
Vienna. This discovery appears to be a new method of
production of chlorate of chalk and soda, which has proved
extremely cheap compared with present methods. The
names of well-known heads of large German industries are
stated to be on the books.
Utilisation of Water Power.— The United States
Consul-General in Frankfort, in a recent report, describes
the Lauffen transmission plant as the most momentous
experiment in technical electricity ever made since elec-
tricity has been rendered serviceable to mankind. After a
lengthened description of the details, Mr. Mason concludes:
'* The way is now open for Americans to harness the wasted
energy of Niagara and a thousand smaller cascades and
rapids in every part of our great country to the varied
purposes of daily life."
Harwioh. — The bringing forward of the memorial to
the Board of Trade for a provisional order at Harwich was
the cause of a considerable scene, several of the councillors
denouncing the expenditure of £50 for this purpose as
dead loss, one member remarking that he had had some
conversation with a gas director, and that if the memorial
were dropped the gas company would meet them fairly.
It was, however, resolved to seal the memorial, but, never-
theless, negotiations are to be opened up again with the
gas company.
Cork Tramways. —A scheme has taken definite shape
in Cork, we learn, for the introduction of a new and
improved tramway system. The project id the outcome of
local enterprise. The centre of the city is first to be
served, and afterwards the line will be extended to the
suburbs. The present would seem to be a favourable time,
therefore, for submitting fullest information to the pro
moters of the advantages of electric traction, which are
more apparent for a new scheme even than for adaptation
of an old line.
Fairy Lamps* — Some rather smart work in stage
lighting was done last week by the Mining and General
Electric Lamp Company. On Wednesday afternoon, at
three o'clock, the order was received^by telegram from Mr.
Oscar Barrett for a set of jewel lamps for the Crystal
Palace Boxing Day pantomime of " Forty Thieves. '' The
batteries were ready, but all the fittings had to be made and
fixed, and by the next afternoon the ballet were fitted up
with 32 brilliant lamps, which shone and sparkled above the
limelight like stars.
Telaategrraph. — We read that a large factory is being
erected in America for the manufacture and equipment of
the writing telegraph, or telautograph, of Prof. Elisha
Gray. This seems to indicate considerable proposed
activity in the near future. It will be remembered that
the writing telegraph was shown in operation in England,
and amongst other places at Mr. J. W. Swan's heuse, but
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 1, 189^
nothing further has been heard of it, principally from the
refusal, we believe, of the Postmaster-General to license
thia invention for victual use in England.
Uverpool. — At the meeting of the Liverpool Watch
Committee on Saturday a resolution was adopted that the
town clerk inform the Board of Trade that the Council
object to the provisional order applied for by the Liverpool
Electric Supply Company, Limited, and also a resolution
that the consideration of the memorial signed by consumers
of electricity in Liverpool, requesting the Corporation to
give their consent to the application of the Liverpool
Electric Supply Company, Limited, for a provisional order,
be postponed until the second meeting in January.
Primary Battery Idghtinflr. — The ever-fascinating
subject of lighting a small private house with a primary
battery is treated in Cosmos by M. de Contades in a some-
what novel way, illustrated in detail. The writer describes,
apparently from an existing installation, an arrangement
for charging secondary batteries from two large sulphate of
eopper cells with an automatic switch for cutting the
secondaries into series. These light 10 lami)s, each of '5
amperes, at 50 volts, for seven hours a day. The capacity
of the charging cell, working for the other 17 hours, is
1»020 ampere-hours.
Motor Patents. — ^The publication has already been
made of the contents of an Italian patent granted some
time before the construction of the first industrial dynamo,
for the utilisation of current from one machine to set in
motion a second. The BvUetin International announces
that another and earlier patent has been discovered,
granted June 30, 1866, to Signor Felice Marco, of
Florence, for the utilisation of waterialls for driving
electric machines whose current carried by metallic wires
should put in motion other receiving electric machines,
installed where the power is required.
Beetrio Carriasres. — An electric carriage has been
fitted up by Mr. William Morrison, of Des Moines, Indiana,
and is illustrated in the Electrical World for Dec. 19. It
is a handsome waggonette, with light wheels and cushioned
seats, with a rotary wheel for steering. The motive power
is obtained from 24 accumulator cells placed under the
seats, and the motor is connected to the rear axle by
reducing cog gearing. The winding is arranged so that
reversal of the current reverses the movement of the car.
This carriage has been in practical operation in Des Moines
for some time, and will soon be shown in Chicago.
Heokmondwike. — A meeting of the Heckmondwike
Electric Lighting Committee was held last week. Mr.
Hutchinson, C.K, attended, and produced and explained
the plan and scheme prepared by him for the proposed
lighting of the district by electricity, when it was resolved
that the scheme set out on the plan be approved. Mr.
Hutchinson also produced and explained the draft specifi-
cation for the proposed electric lighting from the proposed
station in Oldfield-lane, and a resolution was approved
authorising the completion of the specification, and that
a copy of the same be supplied to each member of the com-
mittee. The minutes were approved.
Blargam Abbey. — The residence of Miss Talbot in
Wales, Margam Abbey, has been fitted up with combined
steam and turbine plant. The turbine is of 25 b.p., and
the steam engine, of the same power, drives on the same
oountershafting. Accumulators for 100 lamps are placed
in the Abbey, and there are 400 lamps of 16 c.p. in all.
The pipes for the conveyance of water power are 18in.
diameter, and weigh in all 90 tons. The cables are laid
from the engine-house in cast-iron pipes, which also carry
six telephone wires for a private exchange. The whole of
the work has been carried out by Messrs. Drake and
Gorham,Mr. Campbell Swinton being called in as consulting
engineer.
Typewriter and Telegraph. — In our note last week
upon the use of typewriters in telegraph offices of the
United States, it was mentioned that the only objection
seems to be the extra noise, the Remington and Caligraph
being most used. We are informed by the Typewriter
Company that the sale of the Bar Lock typewriter is also
very large amongst telegraph companies, for the reason, it
is claimed, that the noise in working this machine is less
than others. The economy and efficiency accomplished by
the typewriters is very suggestive, and the lare^e field here
opened will evidently cause keen competition amongst
the various makers, as it cannot be very long before their
use is introduced almost universally.
Croydon Eleotrio Cars. — Another trial trip of the
Jarman electric cars, which are to be run in Croydon, took
place on the lines of the Croydon Tramway Company
last week. The first journey was made to Thornton
Heath quite successfully and smoothly. On returning
a slight mishap occurred by running the cars too close
together, and a jar occurred which broke a window. The
fully-loaded cars were easily stopped, started, or backed.
After the trial a luncheon was taken, at which Mr. Archer,
of the Electric Tramcar Syndicate, and Mr. Carruthers
Wain spoke as to the future of electric tramcars. Mr.
Lintilhac, chairman of the syndicate, presided, and there
were present several of the directors of the Croydon Tram-
way Company and members of the Town Council.
Eleotrioal Apparatus. — Messrs. Dorman and Smith,
in the new issue of their catalogue which is before us,
insist rightly upon their position as first-hand manufac-
turers of electrical apparatus. They do not undertake
bell, telephone, or telegraph work, or installation contracts,
but are the more busily engaged in turning out all kinds of
switches, roses, fuses, switchboards, brackets, and pendants
which are in such large and continuous demand. This
demand, indeed, is increasing so fast that Messrs. Dorman
and Smith have been compelled to take new works in
Salford, and these will soon be in full swing. Besides the
very large selection of ordinary fittings for house and ship
lighting, special attention is given in the catalogue to
Sunbeam lamp fittings, a department that is evidently
growing.
Eleotrio Conetmotion Corporation. — An " Ac-
countant " writing to the Financial News says that he was
so disappointed at the result of the year's work of the
above company that he sold out his holding. His reason
for so doing was that the profit of £160,036 was gained at
an expense of £162,434 (expenses and cost of produc-
tion, £129,890 ; depreciation of machinery, etc., £3,099 ;
head office expenses, etc., £11,423; auditors' fees, £105;
interest on debentures, etc., £3,949 ; other expenses,
advertising, etc., £13,968), or a loss of £2,400 |on the
year's legitimate business, and had it not been for the sale
of part of the patents for £64,000 no dividend could have
been paid. This is exceptional, and he thinks it does not
reflect much credit that in spite of the large turn-over the
expenses were in excess.
Ipewioh. — At the last meeting of the Ipswich Lighting
Committee a letter was read from the Board of Trade
inviting observations upon a letter from Messrs. Water-
house, Winterbotham, and Harrison, 1, New-court, Carey-
street, in which that firm wrote with reference to the
Ipswich electric lighting order : " We are instructed by our
clients, Messrs. Laurence, Scott, and Co., to request that
this order may be revoked. Our clientA i^l \Jba^» S&» Sa^ \>s^
i
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 1, 1892
possible to work two electric lighting undettakings with
profit in Ipswich, and they have therefore arranged with
the Ipswich Electricity Company that the order granted to
that company only shall be acted upon. Under these
circumstances we trust that the Board of Trade will consent
to the revocation of our clients* order." It was resolved to
offer no opposition to the revocation of the order.
London Moat Markots. — Mr. William Malthouse,
writing from the Central Meat Market to the City Press,
says : '* The tenants of the Central Meat, Poultry, Provi-
sion, and Fish Markets have petitioned the Grand Markets
Committee of the Corporation to give them the electric
light. I should like the members of that committee to
have been here these last six mornings, when nearly 10,000
tons of meat were delivered into the market, and carted
away to all parts of the metropolis and the country. The
superintendent (Mr. Stephens) and his staff must have had
a gigantic task, and have done it well, under circumstances
of fearful difficulty and danger. What a mighty boon the
electric light would have been to us all. A few market
tenants on the committee would, by their practical
experience, have rendered great service in this matter."
Canada. — The Dominion of Canada is among England's
largest colonial possessions, and yet is very little worked
by British enterprise. It has an area of 3,382,000 square
miles, which represents one-sixteenth of the entire land
surface of the globe, considerably more than the whole of
the United States. Yet it only has a population of five
millions, or about that of London. In electrical fields it
might be better supplied, and its resources developed,
as by reason of its long winter it offers considerable
opening in this department. The Toronto Construction
and Electrical Supply Company have recently canvassed
the whole country for electrical goods, and have represen-
tatives 4,000 miles apart, in British Columbia, and in
Halifax, Nova Scotia. The latter town has a climate much
like that of England, and is worthy of more support from
the old country.
Slootrlo StoroB, Umitod. — A private company was
formed in the early part of the year which is past under
the name of Electric Stores, Limited, having offices at 51,
Cannon-street, and lately a showroom has been opened at
10, Bow-lane, £.C. The company, as its name implies, is
formed for the supply of stores and electric apparatus of
all kinds. The chairman is Mr. Albert Hoster, who
is the director of the large incandescent lamp
factory at St Nicolas, near Dieppe. These works cover
about an acre of ground, and are carried ouc upon
English principles, having cost about £25,000 to erect,
English electricians having been taken out for training the
workpeople. The Electric Stores have as manager
Mr. Tumber, late of one of the telephone companies. The
Company are putting up a large exhibit in the Crystal
Palace Exhibition.
Cost of Elootrio Uffhting. — In a letter to the
Financial News^ with reference to a recent article on the
cost of electric lighting, Messrs. Crompton and Co. say
that as engineers and contractors they are prepared to prove
under penalty that what is termed the " sheer cost " of
producing the electric light is not greater than that of gas,
and that this cost has already been reduced to the low figure
of 2d. per Board of Trade unit supplied. The discrepancy
between this and the figure charged is due simply to the
cost of the large plant bnd the general expenses, which
until the load is high bear a large proportion to the sheer
cost. Mr. Harston, writing next day, states that whatever
the actual cost may be, from the House-to-House Company
(with whom, however, he wrongly associates Mr. Crompton)
iiAe coat is ihrea times that of gas, and he adds that three
8-c.p. lamps are not equal in light to three 5ft. Peeble's
burners.
Roadinff. — The question of the public lighting of Beading
is being pressed for immediate settlement, and it is to be
hoped that an arrangement can be come to for lighting the
principal streets and the muncipal and other offices by
electricity. The Lighting Committee have presented a
report in which they detailed the terms on which the
Laing, Wharton, and Down Construction Syndicate under-
took to light the central business area under an alternative
arrangement of a five or seven years' contract. The
expense would be half as much again as the present charge
for gas, and the light would be about 15 times as much as
that now in use, besides which the electric light would
be kept alight the whole night, whereas the gas is shut off
or cut down part of the night. An amended estimate, by
which the arc lights can be shut off at eleven o'clock, sub-
stituting incandescent lamps after this hour, is also
prepared, and this arrangement being less expensive would
probably be favoured by the Council.'
Loods Elootrio Tramway. — The combination of
Christmas and fog has brought about conditions in Leeds
which have tested, as well as anything could possibly do, the
capacity of the Roundhay Park electric railway. The dense
fog was the worst ever known at Leeds, but in spite of the
weather the cars have been crowded at every journeyi
running 500 car miles a day. Through all this no trouble
whatever has been found in the electrical part of the work.
The engine-room has been running as smoothly as clock-
work, the only accident being a little collision between two
of the company's own cars, due partly to the dense fog, but
also to carelessness of the driver, who was dismissed. The
holiday traffic has been very heavy, and it is indeed mar-
vellous, considering both the conditions we recorded, of
quick work needed for first installation and the subsequent
bad weather, that the Thomson-Houston Company have at
once made such a success of their line. The line will very
shortly be run down into the centre of the town.
Holston (Cornwall). — On the 14th of October, the
Helston Town Council, at a special meeting, passed a reso-
lution that application be made forthwith to the Board of
Trade for a provisional order. Since that time the
municipal elections have been held, and were fought to
some extent upon the lighting question. At the last
meeting of the Town Council a resolution was brought
forward to rescind the above. Mr. Taylor moved an
amendment that all action should be left pending negotia-
tions with the gas company. He said that the reason the
burgesses were opposed to the electric light was that all
sorts of stories had been told them at election time, that
the rates would be raised 4s. or 5s. in the pound, and so
forth. He objected to throwing themselves into the hands
of the gas company, with gas at 5s. lOd. per 1,000ft. The
Mayor thought it would be wrong to introduce the electric
light on the terms which had been mentioned by Mr. Veale,
and said the gas company would deal fairly with the
Corporation. After further discussion the resolution was
rescinded, the Mayor giving a casting vote.
Dondoo. — A meeting of the Property Committee of the
Town Council was held last week, when it was explained
obstacles had arisen in the way of the Gras Commission
acquiring the Ward-road site as a station for the electric
lighting works, and it was agreed, at the request of ex-
Provost Brownlee, to take about 60 poles of the ground
belonging to the town at the Old Cattle Market at £2 per
pole, with a view to the Gas Commissioners securing that
as a site for their electric light station. The ground at
present is partly leased to Messrs. Livermore Brothers, and
partly occupied as a yard by the Water Commissioners at
TfiE EtECTHlCAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 1, 1892.
a rent of about £60 per annum. The Electric Lighting
Committee has thus practically adopted the alternative
proposal which was originally defeated at the meeting.
About six weeks, however, must elapse before the ground
can be obtained. As it is beyond the compulsory area,
way leave for the cables is necessary, and on Monday
Councillor R. D. B. Ritchie brought the matter up at a
meeting of the Works Committee of the Police Commission,
at which it was agreed to grant the way-leave.
Private Szhibition in Ireland. — The Electrical
Engineering Company of Ireland entertained their friends
the other day with an exhibition of electric light illumina-
tion for indoor decoration, comprising early tea, a com-
bination much enjoyed by the fair sex. The novel
arrangements on the tables and throughout the rooms
wet*e particularly admired. On the tea-table some of
the incandescent lamps of various colours were entirely
enclosed within a light Persian drapery — a striking method
of decoration which is only possible where the electric
light is available. The general illumination of the
room was effected by means of a central electrolier,
artistically decorated with festoons of prepared seaweed, and
from the ceiling depended a number of pearl shells, similarly
decorated, and through which a charming iridescent light
was diffused. The visitors were shown over the establish-
ment, the working of the gas engine, dynamo, and storage
batteries being explained. A device constructed of small
incandescent lamps, arranged in the form of the initial
letters of the company, " E.E.C./' brilliantly illuminated
the window and footpath.
Covent Garden Carnival Ball.— The Covent Garden
Theatre was a brilliant scene on Wednesday night, when
the first of Sir Augustus Harris's carnival fancy dress balls
was held. The floor had been raised to the level of the
stage, and the immense horseshoe shape was covered with
a prepared canvas for dancing. Above the stage, raised
on fluted white and gold columns, was the orchestra,
comprising some hundreds of performers. The music,
as may be imagined, was Ihe finest that dancers could
wish. The house, in gold and crimson, was bril-
liantly lighted up with hundreds of incandescent
lamps turned on for the first time on this occasion.
The sides and balconies wore a mass of lovely cut flowers,
and the numerous stalls were all decorated with magnificent
bouquets. At half-past eleven dancing commenced, and
soon after twelve the whole floor was a maze of moving
figures, most of them in fancy costumes, making a most
imposing and gay assemblage. Dancing was kept up till
five or six. We should mention that the electric light was
fitted up by Mr. Forrester, their own gas engineer, and the
current was supplied by the Metropolitan Electric Light
Company.
Bemardds Welding Prooees. — A large party in-
spected on December 21st the installation of the improved
Bemardos electric welding system at the works of Messrs.
Lloyd and Lloyd, Halesowen, proprietors of the patents in
this country. The Bernardos process, as distinct from the
Thomson process, uses an arc for the purpose of fusing
the metal. In actual use a continuous-current dynamo
is connected to a set of accumulators, and at the
moment of welding both are used in parallel. The work,
inch as an iron tube, is laid on a metal table which
forms one pole. The other cable is connected to a
large carbon rod much like soldering-iron, and the arc is
struck between the carbon and the tube, the arc
being sometimes as much as 6in. long, and of one or
two square inches in sectional area. The current used is
varied from 10 amperes to 400 amperes. Demonstrations
wore made of the welding of tubes, wheels, and rods, and
of the cutting up of thick iron plates to shape with great
success. The later improvements consist in an arrangement
for rotating and vibrating the arc to distribute the heat,
and an electric power hammer is used to finish the
welds. Amongst those present were Sir Redvers
Buller, Sir Frederick Abel, Sir Douglas Galton,
Prof. Forbes, Mr. McFarlane Gray (Board of Trade),
Mr. J. Spencer (Newcastle-on-Tyne), Mr. W. H. White
(Admiralty), and Mr. J. Howard, M.P.j representing the
firm. The firm have granted licenses for the use of
the system to Messrs. John Spencer and Sons, Limited,
of the Newburn Steel Works, Newcastleon-Tyne, and
other firms.
Electric Organs. — The subject of electricity as applied
to large organs is occupying a great deal of the attention
of professional organists and organ builders, and Mr.
R. Hope Jones, of Birkenhead, who has made a speciality
of the question, in his address on '' Electrical Control of
Organs," on December 19th, before the Yorkshire division
of the National Society of Professional Musicians at Leeds,
gave some interesting details of his work. Mr. Jones first
glanced at the forms of organ action — mechanical, pneumatic,
tubular-pneumatic, and electro-pneumatic. With the latter
all tubes were removed for a small electric cable, and the
pneumatic part was much simplified. He expressed the
conviction that the electric would shortly be the only form
that organ builders would use in constructing large or
moderate -sized organs. Sufficient current to work a
large four-manual could be supplied by a single dry
coll, and a few shillings would supply a new cell.
The organist then became simply a toucher of wires.
Noticing the advantages which made the electric action
irresistible from an organist's point of view, Mr. Jones
mentioned light and adjustable touch. The rapidity m
response and repetition secured was really wonderful,
mechanical tests proving this action to be capable of no
less than 1,300 clear repetitions per minute. In connection
with the details of his own system there was one feature
which he published for the first time that afternoon. He
referred to what he termed the " second touch," the object
of which was to give, as far as possible, to the organ keys the
individual expressiveness of the pianoforte. He applied
this second touch to each of the manuals and to the pedals.
Among the other advantages which electricity offered he
enumerated the following : Movable console ; stop keys,
saving the organist labour and giving better control of the
registers ; the stop-switch, by which combination of stops
might be arranged beforehand and brought into use at the
moment required ; unlimited combination touches ; keys or
studs for the automatic control of the pedal registers;
suitable accompaniment; unlimited couplers; increased
control of the swell shutters ; and the transposition switch.
The only single disadvantage that could be named was the
need for a supply of electric current, but as they could obtain
all that they required from a single cell, they need not fear
inconvenience from this. Mr. Jones said that he had always
felt that but for the enterprise of Messrs. Abbott and Smith
his attempts in regard to electrical organ control would
never have led to any greater results than the experimental
organ in St. John's Church, Birkenhead. A year ago that
instrument was of little interest to anyone but himself and
the choristers, who helped him to build it. The organ had,
however, during the year been visited by nearly 1,500 musical
gentlemen, and 23 London and provincial organ builders
were now duly licensed and engaged in the introduction of
the system. The meeting passed a hearty vote of thanks
to Mr. Jones for his address. The company then visited
the factory of Messrs. Abbott and Smith, and inspected the
model of an electric organ which the firm ia oic^^tvcv^.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 1, 1892.
OUR PORTRAITS.
Crookes, William. r.R.S., P.P.C.S., President of the
Institution of Electrical Engineers, 1891. Born in London
in 1833 ; entered Rojal College of Cbemiatry in 1648 aa a
pupil of Dr. Hofmann, and gained the Ashburton Scholar-
ship in 1849. In 1850 he became junior, then senior,
assistant to Dr. Hofmaon, which position he retained till
1854, when he obtained the appointment of Biiporintendent
of the Meteorolc^ical Department of the Radcliffe College,
Oxford. Elected a Fellow of the Eoyal Society in 1863.
Mr, Crookes founded the Chemical News in 1859, of which
paper he is still the proprietor and editor. Mr. Crookes
has been president of the Chemical Society and of the
Chemical Section of the British Association.. He is an
indefatigable investigator and writer, and hii researches
upon high vacua stamp him as one of the foremost of the
scientific men of the nineteenth century.
Ayrton, Prof. W. E., F.R.S., President of the Institu-
tion, was educated at University College School, where he
gained numerous prizes, and entering subsequently into the
college, gained the Andrews Exhibition in 1865 and the
Andrews Scholarship in 1866. Subsequently Mr. Ayrbon
entered the Indian Telegraph Department, first studying
under Sir W. Thomson at Glasi^w. In India Mr. Ayrton
did good and lasting work with the late Mr. Schwendler.
From 1873 to 1879, Prof. Ayrton was Professor of Natural
Philosophy and Telegraphs in Japan. Since hia return to
England his name, often in conjunction with that of his
colleague. Prof. Perry, has been constantly before scientific
circles. The number of papers he has individually, or in con-
junction with others, contributed to the learned societies is
very great. His career at the Finabury College, and subse-
quently at the Central Institution, is well known to most of
our readers, who, if they require an example of extra-
ordinary energy, coupled with great abilities, cannot do
better than emulate the President of the Institution for
1892.
Wabber, Hajo^Oeneral Charles Xdmnnd, C.B.,
R.S. (retired), Past- President of the Institution, and
one of the two founders, his colleague founder being the
late Sir Francis BoUon. Born in Dublin, 6th Sept., 1838.
Educated at the Royal Military Academy, Woolwich, and
obtained his first commission in the Royal Engineers in
April, 1655. Major-General Webber's war services com-
prise the Indian Mutiny, 1857 to 1859, and he was attached
to the headquarters of the Prussian army in the Austro-
Pruastan War of 1866. He was employed in Asia Minor
in collecting transport for the Abyssinian Expedition. In
1879 and 1880 he was in Zululand, Natal, and latterly in
the Transvaal, with the Egyptian Expedition of 1882,
employed as staff-officer for telegraphs ; present at the
battle of Tol-elKebir, A. -A. and Q.-M.-General and Director
of Army Telegraphs with the Nile Expedition of 1884-5,
until invalided in May, 1665, retired from the aervice with
the honorary rank of major-general in 1885. Of late
years Gierieral Webber has been closely connected with
electrical engineering, and especially with the Brush Com-
pany and the Chelsea central station ; also with the
system of main-laying known as the Oallender-Webber
system.
Preeoe, W. H., F.R.S., PastrPresident of the Institu-
tion. Born 1834, near Carnarvon. Educated at King's
College, London. Entered Mr, Edwin Clark's (M.LC.E.)
office in 1852. Appointed to the E. and L T. Co. 1853.
Superintendent of the southern district of E. and I. T. Co.
1856, and of L. and S. W. Railway Co. in 1860; also
engineer Channel Islands Telegraph Co. 1858 ; transferred
to P.O. as divisional engineer 1870; appointed electrician
1877. If we aay little more of Mr. Preece'a career, it ia
not from lack of material but from lack of space. In fact,
it seems almost a work of supererogation to attempt to
make more prominent one of the most prominent figures of
the age in electrical and telegraphic circles. Like other
eminent men, the list of his contributions to the scientific
literature of to-day is very extensive, and we only regret
that he has not found time to add further to it by a contri-
bution to our columns. If the idiosyncrasies of Mr. Preoce
were sought out, they would probably be found to consutt
of a thorough groundwork of strong common-seDse, and a
special ability to popularise his subject. More power to
his elbow.
Webb, F. H., secretary to the Institution, was educat«d
at the Ecole Normale, at Brussels, and University College,
London. He afterwards went to Germany to stndvforthepro-
fession of an engineer. Then for six years he helii the post of
resident-secretary and librarian to the Royal Institute of
British Architects. He was in the engineer's office of che first
telegraph company, and for 10 years was private secretary to
the Tate J. L. Ricardo, M.P., founder of that company. Mr.
Webb subsequently held secretaryships to several companies,
and amongst others that of aasistant secretary to the London
and Brighton Railway. Upon the resignation of Mr.
Langdon in 1S7S, he was appointed editor of the Institution
of Electrical Engineers' Jminuil, and secretary to the
Institution, which latter position be has held up to the
present time. The great interest he takes in all that
concerns the Institution ia well known to members. It is
by no means an easy task to steer a great institution
through the quicksands of public criticism, and we venture
to think that Mr. Webb has by his constant and unwearied
courtesy done much to raise the Institution to its present
pitch of prosperity.
SalomoDH, Sir David L., Bart., one of the Vica-
Presidenta of che Institution, was born in 1661, and
educated by private tuition, and at Caius College, Cam-
bridge, where he graduated in the Natural Science 'Tripoe.
Sir D. Salomons has done excellent work of recent years in
assisting forward electrical engineering in several depart-
ments. A great debt of gratitude is due to him by the
profession by his thoroughly exhaustive test, under private
and unbiased auspices, of electric lighting at hia resi-
dence near Tonbridge, where also he was one of the
first, if not the first user on a practical scale of secon-
dary batteries, and of motors applied to actuate his
various lathes and aimilar machines. The results of hie
experience have been given to the world in the shape of a
book, which has run through several editions, and is justly
esteemed as giving practical experience instead of theoretic
ideas. Sir D. Salomons has done good scientific work
in other directiona, but to us hia personality and his tastee
tend more to electrical matters than elsewhere. We trust
that the Institution will recognise ail he has done for
electrical progress by electing him in due order to the
presidential chair.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
A generation has come and gone since the Crystal Palace
became one of the institutions of England. Of the hundreds
of thousands who annually enter its doorways but a small
percentage know aught of the history of the edifice. In
prosjiect, therefore, of the interesting exhibition now about
to be held within its portals, a brief history of the building
may not come amiss. England owes far more to the Society
of Arts than is generally credited. Its work, as a society,
commenced in 1754, but its first exhibition of arts and
useful inventions was not held until 1761. The interval
between 1761 and 1651 saw a variety of exhibitions
initiated by the society, and other societies, mainly agricul-
tural. Probably, however, the various exhibitions hold
in Paris from 1797 to 1849, gave rise to the idea
of an international exhibition in 1851, to be held in
London. In 1848 the Council of the Society of Arts made
a suggestion, which, through its then president, the Prince
Consort, ultimately led to the 1851 exhibition in Hyde
Park. A Royal Commission was appointed, and among
Its work was the selection of plana for the building. Early
in 1850 the Building Committee advertised for plans, and
in reply received 233 plans. Out of this number only 18
could be found worthy of commendation, and not one for
selection. The committee then prepared a hybrid compo-
sition according with their own view, which elicited a storm
of disapprobation. However, the executive were in a
corner — time was passing, and something had to be
done. Si)ecifications were being prepared, when a
fortnight before they were issued Mr. (afterwards
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 1, 1892.
Sir) Joseph Paxton offered to send another plan if
it would be received. Suffice to say it was received, and
in the end adopted, giving rise to a building which silenced
critics and stamped the author as a constructive genius of
the highest rank. The plans when published gave universal
satisfaction, but the building itself elicited enthusiastic
admiration. It looked like the palace of some genii, so
ethereal was its appearance. Only iron, wood, and glass was
used in its construction. In form a vast parallelogram
1,851ft. long and generally 408ft. wide, but 456ft. wide in
the widest part To this structure the name Crystal
Palace was given by common consent. In it the
1851 exhibition was successfully held, and at its
eloee there was a general desire that the Crystal
Palace should not be destroyed. Many wished it to
become a permanent building in Hyde Park, but that
was not to be. A company was formed to purchase the
materials of the building, remove, and re-erect it elsewhere.
This company obtained 171 acres of land from Mr. Leo
Schuster at Penge Park, and 178 acres additional whereon
to erect the building and lay out adjoining grounds. A
part of this land was not required, and was sold. On the
Bite selected the first column of the building was raised on
August 5th, 1852, and the building was publicly opened on
the lOth June, 1854. The Crystal Palace at Sydenham,
as we know it, is not an exact reproduction of the
exhibition of 1851, but a more perfected build-
ing. Unfortunately, at the present day it is
pitftly shorn of its pristine glory, a part having some
years ago been destroyed by fire. It was originally in
form a parallelogram running nearly north and south,
the length being l,60dfU ; with two wings extending to
the east, each 574ft. long ; and a railway colonnade,
running from the station to the south wing, 720ft. long.
The entire length of the buildins;, therefore, is 3,476ft, —
nearly three-quarters of a mile. The greatest breadth is
384ft. The palace is now terminated at each end by a
" ciystal tower," 284ft. high ; erected for the purpose of
raising water to the tanks from which the high jets of the
great fountains in the lower basins in the grounds are
supplied. They were not in the original plan ; but
they add to the symmetry of the structure, when viewed
from the grounds. The elevation on that side (the east
is further improved by the necessity for the erection of a
lower storey, to give the building the necessary width.
This necessity arose from the ground sloping down to the
east ; and Sir Joseph Paxton suggested that a basement
storev should be formed, the roof of which should support
the floor of that side of the main building. This storey is
entered from the front or grand terrace in the grounds, or
from the railway corridor, and access to the main building
is gained by staircases at the north and south ends, and in
the centre. The main building, above this basement,
consists of a grand central nave, two side aisles, three
transepts, and the north and south wings. The dimensions
of these various parts will be seen in the following table :
Kai7o South Central North wiwca
"*^®" Transept. Transept. Transept. ^^^^S»'
Length 1,608ft. ... 336ft. ... 384ft. ... 336ft. ... 574ft.
Breadth 72ft. ... 72ft. ... 120ft. ... 72ft. ... —
Height from the
floor to the
springing of the
arch ., 68ft. ... 68ft. ... 108ft. ... 68ft. ... 68ft.
Height to the
crownofthearch llO^ft... llO^ft.... 174ift... llO^ft.... llO^ft.
Height from the
basement. M — ... — ... 202ft. ... — ... —
The entire roof of both the nave and transepts is a
vaulted arch, that of the Central Transept being 120ft. span.
Between each end, and the North and South Transepts, the
distance is 144ft. ; and between each of those transepts and
the Central Transept is 528ft. The general width of the
body of the building between the transepts is 312ft. The
difference between that and 384ft. is made up with glazed
and open corridors. In the garden fronts of each of the
three transepts are recesses 24ft. deep. '* These throw fine
shadows and take away from the continuous surface of
plain glass walls ; while the whole general arrangement of
the exterior, the roofs of the side aisles rising step-like to
tbe circular roof of the nave, the interposition of low
square towers at the junction of the nave and transepts, the
open galleries towards the garden front, and the long
wings stretching forth on either side, produce a play of
light and shade, and break the building into parts, which,
without in any way detracting from the grandeur and
simplicity of the whole construction, or causing the parts
themselves to appear mean or small, present a variety of
surface that charms and fully satisfies the eye."
The Crystal Palace, then, is par excellence the home of
exhibitions, and no better building could have been selected
for an electrical exhibition. During the 10 years since the
last was held in this building great progress has been made,
and it is to be hoped the forthcoming exhibits will suffi-
ciently illustrate the present position of the industry.
PROGRESS AT THE EXHIBITION, DEC, 31st.
We give below a list of the exhibitors at the Crystal
Palace Electrical Exhibition, and some preliminary notice
may be welcome of how the work of installing the
machinery is progressing, with some little foretaste of what
visitors may expect to see.
In the first place, we must state that the opening, origi-
nally fixed for the 1st of January, has been put off until the
9th, and indeed it is hard to see that the exhibition will be
ready to open even upon that date, though a week or ten
days makes a wonderful difference in the appearance of an
exhibition at the time of opening. At our visit on
Wednesday we found hundreds of workmen engaged in
putting down machinery and erecting stalls, yet so vast is
the interior of the Crystal Palace that no very great inpon*
venience is noticeable to the promenaders.
The exhibits may be divided into four large sections :
First, the main building, down the centre of which from
fountain to fountain run a row of large stalls by the great
firms — Crompton, Brush, Johnson and Phillips, Siemens,
Laing- Wharton, National Telephone Company, General
Post Office, Edison-Swan — flanked by numerous smaller
exhibits. Second, we have the Machinery Hall, with a
magnificent collection of machinery in motion, by some of
the same firms, together with Messrs. Davey, Paxman, and
Co., and gas engine makers, with Crossley's, of course, con-
spicuous. Thirdly, there are the galleries, in which a
number of rooms are being fitted up with art furniture,
and luxuriously furnished with electric light in all artistic
shapes — here Messrs. Sashleigh, Phipps, and Dawson are
intending to show something astonishing, and Messrs.
Cooper and other art decorators are spending large sums in
providing beautiful interiors. Lastly, there is a special
court in which the railway companies show the signalling
systems. There will doubtless be other divisions of the
principal features as the exhibition gets into shape, but
these seem to be the general features as at present being
prepared.
Coming into the Centre Transept, a large stand of Messrs.
Johnson and Phillips will first be seen divided into two
departments — telegraph and electric light. Huge cable
buoys, some crushed from the weight of water at the
bottom of the sea, together with grapnels and paying-out
apparatus, illustrate cable laying, while the dynamos and
Brockie-Pell arc lamps are being rapidly got into place. The
handsome lampposts erected at St. Pancras will be shown.
Very noticeable will be the two systems of mast for groups
of arc lamps shown respectively by Messrs. Siemens and the
Brush Company, the former a lattice mast and the latter
an immense riveted tube-mast. The Brush Company have
a series of dynamos and engines, baby to giant machines,
in place. The General Electric Company will be very
popular, for besides their switches and general fittings, they
will show motors in work and electric heaters for sauce-
pans, curling-tongs, and flatirons. Messrs. Crompton and
Co. are well represented, and have several exhibits. Indeed,
one seems to see Crompton, Brush, and Siemens every-
where about the place. Messrs. Crompton have one stand
for dynamos and motors and arc lamps, with another for
a travelling electric crane, to be shown in operation,
besides their machinery exhibit. The Electric Stores,
Limited, have a large centre stand.
Coming back to the centre of the Transept, Messrs.
Bashleigh, Phipps, and Dawson have a large kiosk to b^
8
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANQARY 1, 1892.
fitted up as living-rooms, which will make a good show.
This exhibit, we hear, is constructed so that it can be after-
wards sent over to Chicago. The National Telephone Com-
pany are evidently laying themselves out to amuse and
instruct; a handsome building is fitted up as a working
telephone exchange, with subscribers in the Palace, an
immense group of roof insulators overshadowing it. To
one side are fitted up half-a-dozen public call-boxes, by
which anyone will be able to talk to subscribers in London,
while, perhaps, the feature of this branch of the exhibition
will be a telephonic concert-room to hold 50 people, where
concerts in Manchester, Liverpool, or Birmingham can be
heard at charges of 3d. or 6d. for 10 minutes. The Western
Electric Company are also fitting up a comprehensive
telephone exhibit, being something out of the usual
style.
A fine stand will be that of Woodhouse and Rawson,
Limited. Already the Kingdon dynamo is in place ; Midget
arc lamps are being fitted up, and a novelty in the
shape of an electro-hydraulic rivetter will attract
attention. One of the most prominent exhibits is
a church built quarter size, fitted with lightning con-
ductors— whether the disastrous effects of lightning strokes
to unprotected buildings will be illustrated does not yet
appear.
The most noticeable feature of this exhibition will most
certainly be the exhibit of the Edison-Swan Company, who
have devised a novel and striking form of drawing attention
to the lamps. High from the roof of the Palace hangs an
immense number of wires, forming a kind of screen across
the space. This screen is wired for electric lamps, and the
whole will be covered with incandescent lamps in different
sizes and colours, and in varied designs. The screen is to
contain 5,000 lamps, half of which are to be used for
lighting, and by means of a commutator the various devices
will be shown forth in light. As much as 200 h.p. will some-
times be used to light this screen. Below this exhibit
are long tables of H.M. Post Office, on which telegraphs of
various sorts will be shown in operation.
Down the side arcade we notice the stalls of the Mining
and General Electric Lamp Company, Lacombe's carbons,
Areas plating already in operation, Pyke and Harris's high-
tension apparatus, Davis and Timmins's nuts and screws,
Mr. J. Pitkin's instruments. Mosses and Mitchell vulcanised
fibre, Dorman and Smith for switches, Mr. H. Sharpe, of
Theobald's-road, with fittings, Blackman's air propellers,
besides many others rapidly coming into shape. We should
not forget to mention an electric lift, which is being
arranged to raise persons from the floor to the gallery.
One of the unfortunate results of the recent fire at
Messrs. Laing, Wharton, and Down's has been to throw them
all behind with their exhibit Switchboards and artistic
fittings, to the extent of many hundreds of pounds, were
prepared, and they were congratulating themselves, upon
being one of the earliest ut>on the scene, when the fire
occurred, and the whole had to be prepared over again.
Messrs. liaing, Wharton, and Down have the whole of what
is known as the Entertainment Court. They will remove
the stage and fit the room up as a self-contained plant,
working together with Messrs. Crossley Bros., who have
two Otto gas engines already fixed.
In the Machinerv Hall, which lies just behind the
Entertainment, whole groups of men are at work till late
every night. Messrs. Siemens are perhai)s the most
forward. They have two huge dynamos, apparently those
used in the Naval Exhibition, with switchboards ready
fixed. The Brush Company have a series of vertical engines,
made at their Falcon Works, being erected to drive alter-
nators and arc machines. Messrs. Crompton have also a
large space in the Machinery Hall for engines and dynamos
running, the foundations for which are laid. Besides this,
Messrs. Davey, Paxman, and Co. are erecting some largo
engines to drive Crompton dynamos. The firm of Easton
and Anderson, who have recently joined the ranks of
electrical engineers, are preparing an exhibit hero. The
Electric Construction Company have not much ready as
yet, but no doubt their show will be prominent.
There will be a larger installation of gas engines than
has been hitherto seen at exhibitions — the makers evidently
laying themselves out to catch such contracts as are thought
of for Leicester and elsewhere, where the interests of the
electric light company and the local gas company will be
united by driving the dynamos by gas. Besides the
noticeable display of Crosslev Bros., the National Gas
Engine Company have a set of plant practically complete.
There is an immense Wells gas engine, which will
attract notice, and a whole series of Griffin gas
engines, Stockport gas engines, and other makes. In the
boiler-house Messrs. Davey-Paxman have seven large loco-
motive boilers in place. As to the rest of .the machinery,
the Gulcher Company, who, as is well known, now light
the Crystal Palace, are taking out all the old machinery
and installing new plant, which is to serve as their exhibit
at the same time as lighting the Palace. They will have
two 40unit dynamos supplying incandescent and arc
lamps on the low-tension parallel circuit, and a 30-ttnil
alternator of the newly-desisned Fricker type. These will
be driven by the Galloway boilers and the Crystal Fklace
engines.
Upstairs in the galleries by far the most noticeable
exhibit will be that of Messrs. Kashleigh, Phipps, and
Dawson, who have probably the largest space in the exhibi-
tion. The firm are working in conjunction with the well-
known decorators, Godfrey Giles, and Co., of Old Cavendish-
street, and the exhibit is being fitted up in very handsome
style as living-rooms and conservatory, a small army of men
being constantly at work on it. The first room will be a
conservatory, built up in a new kind of patent glass hollow
bricks. The rockery is being carried out by Mr. Dick
Radclyfie, with real rock from Robinson Crusoe's Island.
The second room is an Old English hall, and the third an
Italian dining-room, while the last is a Japanese drawing-
loom. Some novel and striking electric light effects will be
introduced, and it can be confidently prophesied that this
exhibit will be exceedingly popular.
Other beautiful art furniture exhibits 'with electric light
effects will be those of Messrs. H. and J. Cooper, of Great
Pulteney-street ; Messrs. Allen and Menooch, of Brook-
street ; and Messrs. W. Wallace and Co. An exhibit of a
new kind of underground creosoted wood conduit is already
in place by the Macdonald Electric Subway Company,
evidently of America ; and Messrs. F. Wiggins and Co.
will have their mica in full view. Electrical engineers
who think that the exhibition will be devoted to their
interests will probably be somewhat astonished to find our
advertising electropath, Mr. C. B. Harness, very much to
the front, intent on riding into the credulity of the
public upon the crest of the electrical wave. A
whole set of " electropathic treatment rooms" will be
in active operation, and a very handsome set of
rooms they promise to be. While so little is known
about electricity, and all its ways are as " caviare to the
general," the " general " will no doubt believe their petty
ailments can be cured by the wagging of a needle or the
sparks from a huge induction machine, especially if driven
by an electric motor. The last exhibit we must now
mention is that of the theatre, where the Christmas
pantomime is being produced. The stage is being lighted
by 300 lamps by Messrs. Eashleigh, Phipps, and Dawson,
and the fairy lamps are supplied by the Mining and General
Electric Lamp Company.
The public are now becoming rapidly educated in
things electrical, and better able to appreciate the uses of
the mysterious force. Exhibitions such as this to be opened
at the Crystal Palace, serve continually to bring the actual
a[)plicationsof electrical science closer and closer home to both
private customers who desire the latest refinements of
comfort for their houses, and those, such as engineers, who
are constantly on the look-out for means of increasing the
efficiency of their manufactures. There is a final point we
should like to insist u))on hero. Exhibitions too often
suffer from a want of sufficient description by cards or
labels in full and explicit terms attached to the exhibits
themselves. Stall-keepers cannot be on the ground all the
time ; people, moreover, are modest and do not like to
intrude too much, and yet are ever avid for information.
If this is plainly and prominently set before them, with
explanatory details as to theory and application and so
forth upon each machine, the exhibition can be made of
far greater usefulness all round.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY I, 1892.
ALPHABETICAL LIST OF EXHIBITORS.
A. Stand No.
ApptetOD, BnrW, and WillUinson . 17, 70
AndrawB, J. E. H., and Co. 6*, 162
Acme Electric 110, 170
Anbert, M 125
AlUop and Co. I3J
AoderBOD, R 188
Archer Pipe Companj' 207a
Briuh El«cbrical Engtiwering CompKny
Bortiag and Ca
Barclay and Son 26, 1
Blackmaji Veatilating Comptuiy
British Electric _
Browett and Lindley SI, 52
British Oae Eneine Company 73, 75
Boome, J.,
Engine
uidSaj
n and EVoudn
BriflUil, L
Birmingham Telegraph Company ..
Bewron, G
BUhop, W. J.
^ritiali Stone Company
2-27
Crompton and Co 1, 11, U, 43, 220
Csthcari,, Pobo, tJtd Radford 27
Conradty and Co 31
Cnmley Broe. M
Campbell Gas- Engine Company 60a, 69
0)urehill and Co - 79
Croggon and Co. 107
C«D«oUd&ted Telerjtone Company 106, 218
Chubb ai
Catting, Douglaa, and Co...
Cooper, Rftnd J. S.
CrofM,A
Coxetwand Son
Cash and Co
221
D.
Day and Co 19,58,78
Dormanand Smith 22
Davey, Paiman, and Co 80, 61
Dick Kerr and Co 67,68, 201
Drury, W 153
Davis and Timmins 189
DentandCo 3S
EoatoQ and Anderson
Electric Coiutmction Corporation
Evered and Co
Ediaon and Swmi United Electric Light Company
Electric Installation and Maintenance Company
F.
Faraday and Son
Freeman, W. S
Fielding and Plait
Fowler, Lancaeter, and Co,
Floyd
Fowler- Waring Ckbles Company
Foi, K.
(J.
Gulcher (Xew) Electric Light Coni()any .,
General Electric Company
Gill and Co
Graham and Biddle » . .,
Glover, W. T., and Co
Orotb, L. E
Grovea,W
Groonbtidge and Soath
Qilea, F.. andCo
Ureen and Son
Gordon, J. E. H ,
Hartnell, WiUon
Hindley, E. S
Hodgw and Todd
Homaoonslio Co
Harria, J
H.U. Post Office
Hateood W
Bookham, T., and Co
Henlejr's, W. T.. and Co...
JonninKB, 0
Joel and Co
Johnson and PhUlipa .
JosUn, P.
Joel. A
Kelway, C. E „.,.„ 120
Laiae. Wharton, and Down Syndicate
London Metalliirgioat Company
Lacombe and Co
Lundberg.A. P
L. C. and D. Railway
L and N. W. Railway
L. B. andS. C. RaUway
Levi, S. H
M.
Masses and Mitobell »
McKinnel and Co
Moeser, F
Maquay Electric light Company
MtDing and CieneraT Kleotiic L«nip Company...
Morgan 'Granville
Moore, A. F
Medical Batt«ry Company
Marryat and Co.
National Telephoni
Ns pier and Sons...
Nalder Bros
Newton, F. M. ...
Company 191. 101
Richard Fr^roB 163
Richards, J. M 3*
Rylanda, 1). 36
Renahaw and Mackie 02
Itopers C-ompany 63
Rashleigh, Philips, and Dawfon 101, 202
Rawlins and Walker 1S6
Swinburne and Co
Siemens Broe
Shirley and Co
Spencer, J
South of England Electric Company .
Scott, R. A
SuRden, J ■
Sidoey and Bamett
Scientific Alliance
S.C.n. Electrical Company
Suter, F
South-Eastern Railway Company
Stegman, G
Smith, Newton
Shippey Bros
Saxby and Farmer
T.
Todman, J. T.
Thompson, H.
Trent Gas Engine Compuiy
Tel^raph Manufacturing Company ..
Thatcherand Dovereui
Vaughnn and Brown
Vogol, C. C
Victor Battery Company
W
Woodley, B
Waygood and Co
Wells Bros
Woodhouse and Eawson United .,
Weymarsch Battery Company ...
Waterlow and Sons
Warbey, J. L
White, J
Wake and Saunders
Walker, W
Wiggins, F
10
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 1, 1892.
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UST OF EXHIBITORS IN ORDER OF STANDS.
Stand No.
Crompton and Co., Mansion House-baildings, E.C 1 S.N.
Swinburne and Co. , Broomhall Works, Teddington 2 „
Siemens Bros., 12, Queen Anne's-gate, Westminster .. 3 „
Richards, J. M., 146, Holborn-vii^uct 3a „
Brush Electrical Engineering Company, Albert-
buildings, Queen Victoria-street 4
Osier and Co., 100, Oxford-street, W 5
Gulcher (New) Electric Light Company, Battersea
Foundnr, S.W 6
General Electric Co., 71, Queen Victoria-street, E.C. 7
Electrical Power and Storage Company, 4, Great Win-
chester street, E.C 8
Epstein Accumulator Company, Limited, 34, Cannon-
street 9
Johnson and Phillips, 14, Union -court. Old Broad-street 10
Crompton and Co., Mansion House- buildings, E.C 11
Faraaay and Son, 3, Bemers-street, W 12
Electric Stores, Limited, 51, Cannon -street, E.C 13
Crompton and Co., Mansion House-buildings, E.C 14
Day and Co. , 60, Queen Victoria-street, E. C. 16
Appleton, Burbey, and Williamson, 98, Queen Victoria-
street 17 „
Shirley and Co., 45, Rathbone-place, W 18
Todman, J. T., Queen-street-chambers 19
Mosses and Mitchell, 68, Chiswell-street, E.C 20
Thompson, H., 59 Theobalds-road, W.C 21
Dorman and Smith , Brazenose-street, Manchester 22
Green and Son, W., 98, Albany-road, S.E 23
Spencer, J. , Globe Tube Works, Wednesbury 24
Borting, J., and Co., 30, Berners-street, Leicester 25
Barclay and Son, 178, R^ent-street, W 26
Cathcart, Peto, and Radford, 57b, Hatton -garden, E.C. 27
Gill, A. B., and Co. , 36, Parliament-street, Westminster 28
South of England Electrical Manufacturing Company,
Pump Point, Croydon 29
Hartnell, Wilson, Volt Works, Basinghall-street. Leeds 30
Conradty, C, c/o. H. Mayes, 21, St. Paul's-buildings,
E.C 31
Blackman Ventilating Company, 63, Fore-street, E.C.. 32
Scott, Ronald A, Acton Hill, W 33
Woodley, R., Clemence-street, Burdett-road, E 34
Joslin, P., Westow-street, Upper Norwood 35
Rylands, Dan, Limited, Hope Glass Works, Stairfoot,
Barnsley 36
Way good and Co., Falmouth-road, Great Dover-street.. 37
Dent and Co., 61, Strand, W.C 38
Laing, Wharton, and Down Syndicate, 82a, New Bond-
street, W 41 E.C. &45M.R.
Easton and Anderson, 3, Whitehall.place, S.W 42 „
Crompton and Co., Mansion House-buildings, E.C 43 S.N.
Crosajey Bros., St. Bride-street. E.C 44 M R.
Brush Electrical Engineering Company, Albert-
buildings, Queen Victoria-street 46
Scott, Ronald A., Acton HUl, W 47
Siemens Bros. , 12, Queen Anne's-gate, S. W 48
Electric Construction Corporation, Wolverhampton 49
Freeman, W. S., Otford, Kent 49a ,,
Woodley, R., Clemence-street, Burdett-road, E 50
Browett and Lindlev, Salf ord , Manchester 61 & 52
South of England Manufacturing Company, Croydon... 54
Gill, A. B., and Co., 36, Parliament-street 56
Newton, F. M., Taunton, Somerset 57
Day and Co., 60, Queen Victoria-street 58 & 76
Davey, Paxman, and Co., Colchester 60 & 61
Johnson and Phillips, 14, Union-court, Old Broad-street 60 „
Renshaw and Mackie, 77, Tummill-street, E.C 62 „
McKinnel and Co., Dumfries 62a „
Ropers Electrical Engineering Company, Trafalgar
Works, Bradford 63 „
Andrew, J. E. H., and Co., 20, Queen Victoria-street 64 ,,
Campbell Gas Engine Company, 1 14, Tooley -street 69a , ,
Barclay and Son, 138, Regent-street, W 66
Dick Kerr and Co., 76, Queen Victoria-street, E.C. .67 & 68
Campbell Gas Engine Company, 114, Tooley-street 69
Appleton, Burbey, and Williamson, 91, Queen Victoria-
street ., 70 „
Wells Bros., Sandiacre, near Nottingham 71 „
British Gas Engine Company, Mansfield-road, Gospel
Oak 73&75
Trent Gas Engine Company, New Basford, Nottingham 73
Fielding and Piatt, Atlas Works, Gloucester 74
Hlndley , E. S. , 1 1 , Queen Victoria-street, E.C 77
Bourne, J., and Son, New St. Pancras Station, Euston-
road. N.W 78
Churchill, C, and Co., 21, Cross-street, Finsbury, E.C. 79
Rashleigh, Phipps, and Dawson, 53, Berners-street, W. 101 N.N.
Woodhouse and Kawson, 88, Queen Victoria-street, E.C. 103 „
National Telephone Company, Limited, Oxford -court.
Cannon-street 104 „
Hodges and Todd, 12, Verulam-street, Gray's Inn-road. 105 ,,
Mosser, F., 105, Regent-street. W 105a „
Consolidated Telephone Company, 109, Farringdon-road 106 ,,
Sugden, J., 99, Wyndham-road, Camberweli 106a „
Croggon and Co., 16, Upper Thames street, E.C 107
Berg, E.,29, Link-street, Berlin, Germany 108
London Metallurgical Company, 80, Tummill-street,
Ma 109
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stand No.
Acme Electric Works, Ferdinand street, Chalk Farm,
N.W 110 N.N.
Chubb and Sons, 128, Queen Victoria-street, E.C Ill
Homacoustic Company, 52, St. Stephen's-chambers,
Telegraph-street, E.C 112
Weymersch Electric Battery Company, 2, Victoria-
mansions 113
Laoombe and Co., 7, Carteret-street, Queen Anne^s-
gate, S.W 114 „
Maquay Electric Light Company, 9, Frith-street, Soho 115 „
Waterlow and Sons, Limited, Finsbury Stationery
Works, E.C 116
Benham and Froude, 40, Chandos-street, W.C 117
Fowler, Lancaster, and Co., Graham-street, Birmingham 117a
Graham and Biddle, 463, Oxford-street, W 118
Lundberg, A. P., Bradbury -street, Kingsland-road 119
Joel, A., Kohlen-in-Stuttgart, Wurtemberg 120
EveredandCo., 58, Drury-lane, W.C 121
Sidney and Barnet, 30, Walham-green, S.W 123
Scientific Alliance, 7 & 8, Dyers-buildings, Holbom 124
Aubert, M., Lausaune, Switzerland 125
Ingersol Serjeant Drill Company, 114a, Queen Victoria-
street, E.C 126
S.C.G. Electrical Company, 48, Broad-street-avenue,
rj rj J27
Gordon, J.' E. H.',* 1 1 ,* Paii'-maii! * s! W." .V.V.V V.V.V.V. .V.V.V.V. 128
Kelway, C. E , 71. Shardiloes-road, New Cross 129
Nalder Bros, and Co., 16, Red Lionstreet, E.C 130
Lewis, J., 5, Great Winchester-street, E.C 131
Allsop, F. C, and Co., 165, Queen Victoria-street, E.C. 132 „
H.M. PostOffice 133 ,.
Floyd, E. M., 32, Prothben-road, Fulham 135
Bristol, L , Park End, Bromley, Kent 136
Edison and Swan United Electric Light Company, 100,
Victoria-street, S.W 138
Electric Installation and Maintenance Company,
Limited, Great Winchester-street 139
Napier, D. , and Sons, Vine-street, York-road , Lambeth . . . 139a
Telegraph Manufacturing Company, Limited, Helsby,
(yheshire . 140
Glover, W\ f/,and Co!i'39i v'ict^^^^^ 141
Jenner, T., Mill-lane, Taunton 142
Vaughan and Brown, 16, Purdey-street, Hatton-
garden, E.C 148
Groth, L. E., 3. Tokenhouse-buildings, E.C 144
Warbey, J. L., 51, Sutton- buildings. Little Sutton-
street, E.C 145
Groves, W., 89, Bolsover-street, Portland -place 146
Mining and General Electric Lamp Compiany, 64, Mill-
bank-street, S.W 147
Economic Electric Supply Company, 397, Edgware-road 149
Groombridge and South, 40, New Bond -street, W 150
White, J., 16, Cambridge-street, Glasgow 151
Drury, W., 39, Lytherstone-road, HolToway, N 152
Richard Freres, 43, London-wall, E.C 153
Suter, F., and Co., 66, Bemers-street, W 154
Jennings, 6., Lambeth Palace-road 154a
Birmingham Telegraph Factory, Birmingham 155
Rawlins and Walker, High-street, Lymington, Hants ... 156
Joel, H. F., and Co., 31, Wilson-street, Finsbury-square 157
Habgood, W., 19, Cbandos-road, Buckingham 158
Henley's, W. T., Telegraph Works Company, Limited,
27, Martin's-lane 159
b owler- Waring Cables Company, Limited, 32, Victoria-
street 160 „
Cutling, R. C, Douglas, and Co., Wardrobe-chambers,
Queen Victoria-street 161
Andrews, J. D. F., and Co., 41, Parliament-street 162
International Electric Company, 34, Aldermanbury 164
Vogel, C. C, Berlin 68, Ritterstrasse 39 156
Anderson, R., and Co., 101, Leadenhall-street 166
Pyke-Harris, 34, New Tothill-street, S.W 167
Elliott, A., and Strode, C, Limited, 10, Bush-lane,
Cannon-street 168 ,,
Davis and Timmins, 24, Charles-street, Hatton -garden 189
Acme Electric Works, Ferdinand-street, Chalk Farm... 170
Bowron, G., 93, Praed-street, W 171
Victor Primary Battery Company, 11, Wormwood -street 172
£ipfltein Accumulator Company, 34, Cannon-etreet, E.C. 173
M^organ-Grenville, Captain S., Maids Moreton, Bucks .. 174
Pitkin, J., 56, Red Lion-street, Clerkenwell, E.C 175
Harris, Colonel Josiah, Moraston Lodge, Jews-walk,
Sydenham 176
Moore, A. F., Longwood, Bexley, Kent 177
Exchange Telegraph Company, Limited, 17« Cornhill... 177a
L. C. and D. Railway Company, Pimlico, S.W 178 E.C.
L. and N. W. Railway Company, Euston, N.W 179
Saxby and Farmer, Canteibury Iron Works, Kilburn... 180
L. B and S. C. Railway Company, London Bridge 181-2
S. E. Railway Company, London Bridge 183
National Telephone Company, Oxford-court, Cannon-
street 191 E.V.
Siemens Bros, and Co., Limited, Queen Anne's (^ate,
S.W 192 P.C.
Dick Kerr and Co , 76, Queen Victoria-street, E.C 201 G.
Riedel, Unterpolaun, Bohemia .. 201a
Rashleigh, Phipps, and Dawson, 53, Berners-street, W. 202
Cooper, H. and J., 8, Great Puiteney-street, W 203
Barclay and Son, 138. Regent-street, W 204 ,
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tHE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 1. 189^.
Stand No.
Giles, F., and Co., SO, High-street, KeD^fu^ton, W 209 G.
Wake and Saoden, 6, Fowkee- buildings, Groat Towor-
itroet. E,C. 206* „
St^nan. G., BB, St. John's-raad, Clapham Janction ... 207 ,,
Archer Pipe Company, Avenne-raanBion, Shaftetbury-
•venue 207* „
CroftH. A., 8, St. Jttm»-Btreot. Dover 308 „
Thalcber and Devareux, 15, Chiveley-road, Battersea
R>-8 209 „
Wallier, W., George-street, Croydon 210 „
Bishop, W. J., 7*. George-Btreot, Croydoo 211 „
Smith, Newton, 17, Victoria-street, 8.W 212 „
Electropathic and Turkish Baths, Limited, 24,
Railway-approach, London Bridge 213 „
Modical Battery Company, 62, Oxford -street, W 214 ,,
Foi, E., M, GreBham-street, E.G. 2Ha ,,
Coieterand Son, 4, Grafton -street, Gower-atreet, N.W. 215 ,,
Consolidated Telephone Company, Limited, 109,
Farrins^on-road 216 „
Shippey Bros., 13, King-street. Cheapaide, E C 217 „
Levi, 8 H., 43, London-wall, E.C 218 „
Marryat, H., and Co., ChiBhoIm-rood, Richmond 219 „
Crompton and Co., Mansion House-buildings, EC 220 „
Cash, N., and Co, , Bower road. Victoria Park, N E 221 .,
Hookham, T., and Co., 4, Tarn pin -lane, Greenwich 222 „
Wiggins. F., and Sons, 10, Tower-bUl. E.C 223 „
British Stone and Marble Company, Limited, Yeoman-
street, Rotherhithe 224 ,,
Becke and Co., 2, Gertrude- street, Kiog's-road, Chelsea 226 „
Britaooia Rubber Works, 32, Cannon-Btreet, E.C 227 „
N.N., North Nave. S.N., South Nave. M.R., Machine-Room.
EC, Egyptian Court. E.V., Egyptian VeeCibnle. P.C.,PompeiiaD
Court. G., Gallery.
TELEPHONE INSTALLATION.
Mr. Liinf4(taD, the telegraph superiiileiideDt of the Mid-
land Railway Company, has lately installed a complete
telephone system at The Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool. The
installation compriaeB three floors, and on each floor is a
switchboard for 70 directions — making a total number ol
210 stations. Each room is fitted with a call-box and a
double " Ader " instrument (magnetic transmitter), n
separate call-bell and a three-contact pear-push, which is
suspended near the bed, so that the visitors can ring in the
luual way or communicate through the telephone. The
visitors are able to communicate with one another and with
the staff of the hotel, this eflectiu^ considerable saving of
time both for visitors and staff. This instuUation has given
nt satisfaction, as it is simple and thoroughly reliable.
I eimilar to the large installation at The Terminus
Hotel, Paris, where 360 rooms are connected, the only
difference being that in the latter " Ader " microphones
were used instead of magnetic transmitters. The instru
ments and appliances for the above instalUtion were
supplied by La Suci^t^ G(intirale des T616phoneB.
PHYSICAL SOCIETY. -Dec. 18, 1891.
Prof. W. E. Atrton, F.R.S., president, in the chwr.
Mr. R. W. Mond, F.R.S-E., was elected a member of the society.
The FreBldvnt announced that it bad been found neoessary to
alt«r the dates of the meetings to be held after ChristmoB from
those already published to the following : January 22nd, February
12th and 26th, March lltb and 25th, April 8th, May l^th and
27th, June 10th and 24th.
A "Nota on Intarftronoe with AltAmatlnK CnrrenU " was
communicated by BIr. K. B. XUsonr. Whilst studying Dr.
Fleming's paper od "Some Effects of Alternate- Current Flow in
Circuits having Capacity and Self-induction,' the author con
structed some additional curves. He was thereby led to investigate
whether the seriooa rises of pressure produced by adding capacity
would occur over oonsiderable ranjies of capacity, or whether they
would only take place when the capacity was nearly equal to n
rrtlcnlar value. Taking the caa3 of a condenser of capacity
Eaiads, in series with a circuit of reBlBtance R ohms, and induct
anoa L heniys, be showed that the maximum value of X (the ratio
of the pressure acrow the condenser terminals to that across
Um otudenser sjid inductive resiHtancs) is obtained when
C= ^5 — (I), where p = 2 » times the frequency. The
matimam of X produced by this capacity being given by the
•spcvwon A = ^^' R ^ ^' '^'- ''^'^"8 R = 10 and p = 2 IT.
I,U0O QorvM plotted from eqaations (1) audi (2) betweao
0 and L, and between A and L had been drawn. The
C L curve rises to a very sharp peak at L = '0015 and falls
rapidly. That iMitwesn A and L starts horizontal and bends
upwanls, and approximates to an inclined straight lino for
values of L greater than 0*002, when L = 01, A = 63. Con-
jidering the question of the range of capacity with which a given
rise of pressure can occur, it was pointed ouc that when the values
of L, R, and p are such as to make a large rise possible, a rise exceed-
ing B. moderate i-alue can only be obtained for values of 0 differing
little from that given by equation (1). On the other hand, when
Che circuit is such that the maximum rise possible is not large,
then s rise exceeding a given moderate value can be obtained over
a much wider range of capacity. Hence, the author conoludee
that the Uu^^ the possible rise the smaller Is the probability of a
seriouB rise occurring. The effect of shunting the condenser by a
circuit of resistance, r, and inductance, I, is next dealt with in the
paper, and the values of C which make X a maximum determined,
SB well as the maximum value X can have. Subsequently the
author examines whether the practical case of an alternator
feeding a transformer through a concentric cable may be simpli-
fied without introducing serious error by assuming the capacity
concentrated at either end of the cable, and conctudeo that in
ordinary casee little error will be thus made. In an experiment
made with a 100-kilowatt alternator, three-quarters of a mile of
"jit concentric cable, and an 18-kilonratt transformer, a rise of
i per cent, was found to occur at the terminals of the alternator
when the cable was connected. Putting on the transformer
unloaded or loaded produced little change in the rise of pres-
sure ; this in all coses being between 0'2 and 0'3 per cent.
Dr. Smmpner asked whether the condaaions as to the range of
capacity with which a given rise of pressure was poesibls, was true
for small rises such as occur in practice Cases where the
maximum possible rise was of the order 6.^ were not likely to
occur at ordinary frequencies. The highest rise he had ever
known was 11. He thought the time-constant of the inductive
coil chosen— i-iz., ijj of a second— was very large. In circuits
containing iron it was practically impossible to get such large time-
constants, for the power spent in the iron increased the effective
resistance. Referring to the narrow range of capacity within
which large rises were possible, be poinC^ out that such cases
were found in Hertz's resonators, where the rises were immense,
but Co obtain tbem the adjustments bad to be very accurately
made. Dr. H, P. TIiampeoB said ho regretted that Prof. Fleming
was not present, for he had recently investigated Hertx's experi-
ments and )iad obtained curves very gimilar to that got for the
Deptford maina. The Curve between A and L waa very interesting.
It was, in fact, a curve between the secant of the angle of Ibk and
L, as could be seen from formula (2). In practice one would be
working on the lower portion, and hence the rises would be small.
■fr. Kllgenr explained that in the paper bis first object was to
show that the product of the range of capacity between which a
rise greater than a given value would occur and the maximum
possible rise, was approximately constant for diOerent circuite.
Secondly, he wished to prove that the capacity, of concentric
cabltH could be aHBumed to be localised at either end without
introducing much erior in the riaea of progsurea calculated
therefrom. Dr. ikompaoo, speaking of nomenclature, rei^retted
that the word inductance should be used sometimes for L,
and at otlier times for L p, and thought its meaning should
be restricted to the latter. Frof. Ferry said a Dame was needed
forcoelfioient of self-induction. Resistance was practically inde-
pendent oE freiiuency, and " inductance " should have no reference
to frequency. Dr. Snmpner thought it important to have a name
for L p, for that quantity comes into calculation most frequently.
He would have preferred that " inductance" should mean L p, but
Mr. 0- Heaviaide, who introduced the term, had used it for L.
The President remarked that some time ago Dr. Sumpner and
himself felt the noed of a name tor L />, and thought of using
" inductance," but on referring to Mr. Ileariside's articles found
it used for L, Dr. C. V. Borton asked whether the word " self-
induction " could not be used as an abbreviation for " coelficientof
self-induction." Dr. Thonpeon jrainted out that this word
already had a meaning — viz., L multiplied by current- Dr. Barton
then suggested that iiiductivity might b
Thompaen said the word " im[)edance wai
oualy, for the tense in which I)r. Lodge uset
Views of Electricity " '
applicable,
also used ambigu-
it in his '' Modem
of Rai
" had been
1 said this definition v
_ Prof. Parry recalled the fact that "impedance
defined by the committee of the British Association a
effective voltage _^
eltcictive current
applicable to periodic currents, and not to intermittent or transient
ones. The President said be understood the first object of Mr.
Kilgour's paper was to enquire whether the dread of rise of voltage
occurring when concentric mains were used, need exist. When
Dr. Fleming's paper was read, the general idea was that concentric
cables were dangerous. In the discussion on it, he, amongst
others, had pointed out that the chance of a large rise of pressura
was not a serious one. Mr. Kilgour had now shown that the
range of capacity over which a particular rise could oocur, is
inversely proinrtional to the maximum rise possible in the
particular circuit. When the circuit was such that a large rise
was possible, tbe probability of any serious rise taking place was
ven' small, hence the fears of large rises were mora or leas
unfounded. The second part of the paper was to show that
ordinary problems on concentric cables could, in practical caws,
be treated with aufhcient accuracy by assuming the capacity
localised at either end of the oable, inelMd of distnbated aIaa%itA
12
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY I, 1892.
THE
bLECTRICAL ENGINEER.
Published every Friday.
Price Threepence ; Post Free, Threepence Halfpenny .
Editorial and Publishinsr Offices :
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Notae 1
Our Portraits 6
The CryBtal Palace Exhibi-
tion.. 6
Telephone Installation 11
Physical Society 11
18fe 12
Correspondence 16
Electrolysis of Gold Salts... 15
New Electric Railways for
London 18
Practical Instruments for
the Measurement of Elec-
tricity 17
Trade Notes— Electrical and
Mechanical 19
Companies' Meetings 19
New Companies Blistered 24
Provisional Patents 24
Business Notes 24
Companies' Stock and Share
List 24
TO CORRBBPONDBNTB.
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care invited to furnish notice of Meetings^ Issue of New
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any account of their inventions sulnniited to us will
receive our best consideration.
/fU communications intended for the Editor should be addressed
C. H. W. Biggs, 1^9140, Salisbury Court, Fleet Street,
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C H. W. Biggs, 189-140, Salisbury Court Fleet
Street^ London, and be crossed " Union Bank,**
With this copy of the Paper is issued a Supplement cont aining
a sketch of the scene at the Institution dinner, by W. M.
Bowles, with six portraits, taken from photographs, of Fro£
W. Crotfkes, F.R.S., Prof. W. S. Ayrton, F.R.S., Oeneiml
WoVber, C.B., Mr. W. H. Preeee, F.R.S., Mr. F. H. Webb, and
Mr D. SalomoBfl.
Every reader should aee thai he gets this SupplemtfUt and noti'
uriih ihe Pajw ithouid be reported at the Publishing Office*
To All Beaders, a Happy and Prosperous
Year.
Egoism is an article as common as jingoism,
hence we may be permitted to claim a little of it,
and in the first place speak of ourselves. We claim
to pay attention principally to business matters,
leaving our contemporaries to discourse on trans-
cendental questions about which no one knows
anything in particular, though it pleases them to
consider otherwise.
The Directory.— The new feature of a weekly
trades' directory, introduced to-day, may or may not
be of service. At any rate, correspondents from
widely different quarters are continually asking for
names of firms and men, and it seems to us that
while an annual directory well done may be valuable,
a weekly directory equally well done will be in-
valuable. The large directories are limited in
circulation, and are partially out of date even at the
time of issue. The weekly directory can be corrected
every seven days, and must in a short time be fairly
trustworthy. The directory we issue to-day is not
put forth as perfect — it is tentative only ; and we ask
our readers' assistance to make it more complete.
Utility is required, not mere lists of names and
addresses. This is how the matter strikes us as
business men. Take one example — electrical engi-
neering. It is extending, installations are increasing.
By and by each installation will require periodically
a replenishing of stores. The oil merchant, the wire
manufacturer, the carbon-rod manufacturer, the
incandescent lamp manufacturer, and so on through
the whole gamut of trades, send representatives to
call upon the officers in charge of installations for
"orders." It may suit some of the big makers to
fancy they will hold the trade because now they are
going on swimmingly. They will have to take the
small with the large, and remember '' many a mickle
makes a muckle," or competition will ultimately leave
them without the mickle. In another direction,
again, we may urge the benefit of a weekly directory.
Readers in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa —
aye, even in England, Scotland, and Ireland — ^have
never seen, and are not likely to see, the more pre-
tentious works, yet require certain information. This
information they get from the paper, communicate
with one or more firms, and business results.
Wherever the paper is seen — and it is astonishing
where papers are seen — ^the name on the list gets
publicity. It would be altogether too much of the
confidence trick to insinuate that our views are
entirely for the benefit of our patrons. Not so ; we
believe in mutual advantage, and have no reason to
fear but the effort to do something for the benefit
of readers will also redound to our own benefit.
Portraits. — From time to time, yn a more or less
desultory manner, portraits have been given in
various papers, but hitherto nothing has been done
in a systematic manner. We venture, then, to
commence systematically what has hitherto been
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 1, 1892.
13
done sporadically. With this issue we give
half-a-dozen portraits obtained from photographs,
and we have another twenty or so ready for insertion
at convenient opportunities. One of the great aims
of telegraphists is to find a good way of sending
plans, portraits, and pictures telegraphically. We
cannot hope to emulate inventors, but follow behind :
call in the photographer, engraver, and printer to
assist to distribute as widely as our paper is read the
representative features of representative men. To
obtain a favourable result we require a good, bright
photograph, and hope by these means to enable
readers who may never be acquainted with pro-
minent men in the flesh to have some idea of what
they look like. Had similar views held in the time
of Sturgeon and similar means been ready to do the
work, we should not now be deploring the loss of
his portrait.
The Past Year. — Several important qaestions
are raised by the work of the past year, but our
usual general comments thereon must be reserved
for the present. The old year has only just fled, that
many who usually favour us with their views have
not yet — or too late, owing to the holiday season —
placed them in our hands. Meanwhile, we com-
mence to give a resume of the work of individual
firms.
Electric Construction Corporation, Wolver-
hampton.— In addition to a large and continually
increasing amount of business in the supply of
machines, switchboards, etc., for private installa-
tions, this corporation has carried out some large
contracts for continuous-current machines for central
lighting stations in London, etc., also some excep-
tionally large copper depositing plants. They have
built a number of the Elwell-Parker alternating-
current machines, and supplied large numbers of
transformers. They supplied the switchboards and
accumulators for the St. Pancras Vestry installation,
which has been at work since November last. A
somewhat new feature of the past year has been the
rapid development of continuous-current trans-
formers. Large central station plants on this system
are at the present time being supplied to Messrs. J. B.
H. Gordon and Co. for the Installation and Mainten-
ance Company's station at Sydenham, and also for the
Oxford Electric Light Company. In addition to
these they have supplied continuous-current trans-
formers to other stations. The corporation had
completed the electric transmission of power plant
in its new works, at Wolverhampton, where all the
machine tools, cranes, etc., are driven by means of
motors. In addition, they have supplied a number
of motors for various purposes, including a set of
60-h.p. hauling plant, and some machines for driving
pumps, etc., in collieries. Amongst other important
work in hand for the coming year is the contract for
supply of generating plant, rolling-stock, and con-
ductors for the Liverpool Overhead Eailway.
Electrical Standardising, Testing, and Train-
ing Institution. — During the earlier part of the
year some time had to be spent fitting up the new
premises, Faraday House, Charing Cross-road, under
the superintendence of the heads of the various
sections. The standardising and testing depart-
ments have had continuous work since they were
opened, and as manufacturers and others are getting
to find that their instruments can be standardised
and calibrated more efliciently at the institution
than at their own works, this branch of the business
steadily increases, though some firms prefer hiring
a private room and doing their own work, the
institution supplying apparatus and current. A
good deal of work has also been done by ex-
perimenters who rent the private rooms, and
borrow the apparatus as they require it. Much
has been done m the direction of inspecting and
reporting upon private installations, testing meters,
etc., in cases where disputes have arisen between
householders and their contractors or supply com-
panies. Dynamo machines, steam engines, and
apparatus generally have also been inspected at the
manufacturers to see if they fulfil the specifications,
but this work has been chiefly done for agents who
are sending plant abroad. Indeed, the necessity for
the new departure made when the institution was
founded has been clearly shown by the connection
already made. In the training department some 50
names are on the books, and it is satisfactory to
learn that the companies and firms in affiliation
with the institution have already drawn upon it for
assistant engineers, the companies usually keeping
those apprentices who have been sent them for the
purpose of being practically trained and who have
shown themselves specially apt for their work. The
forthcoming competition for the scholarships and
exhibitions seems likely to be large.
India Kubker Company, Silvertoa\tj. — This
company has been fairly busy in every branch
throughout the year, and in the electrical depart-
ments some important orders have been carried out.
The cable department laid along the West Coast of
South America 1,750 knots of submarine cable for the
Central and South American Telegraph Company.
Over 1,600 knots of cable have been made and laid
along the coast of Brazil for the Western and
Brazilian Telegraph Company. Orders have also
been executed for cable for the Post Oflice, the
India Office, and various foreign Governments, and
about 1,100 knots of a cable to be laid next year
between West Africa and Brazil have already been
manufactured. The cable department has, in addi-
tion, delivered a large quantity of torpedo and
electric light cable for shipping orders. For low-
tension house-lighting cables and wires the demand
still increases, and for high-tension distribution con-
siderable lengths have been manufactured for the
Metropolitan Electric Supply Company, the House-
to-House Electric Supply Company, the City of
London Electric Company. Newcastle-on-Tyne and
other towns in England have been large consumers.
The company's French factory has filled several
orders for the lighting of Paris, Madrid, Barcelona,
Tours, Havre, etc. The Admiralty, as a result of
past experience, has decided to again adopt india-
rubber insulation, and the Silvertown Company, in
addition to the Government contract for the year,
have obtained a number of orders from the various
firms carrying out Admiralty contracts. The instru-
ment department, besides railway, Post Office, and
Admiralty work, have executed a number of shipping
orders for telegraph and torpedo instruments, and
has supplied the whole of the new station switch gear
for the London Electric Corporation. The battery
department has throughout the year been full of
orders, especially for Leclanche cells, which have
been supplied in large numbers to Government, and
to railway and supply companies. In the electric
Ught department a fair amount of work has been
done, including the supply of dynamos and the
fitting up of electric light and signal gear on a number
of H.M. ships, amoii|,%t o\>[i€t% \5ckfc ^^ ^B^^\i5ckSsasiV
■ a
14
THE ELiJCTtliCAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 1, 189^
"Blake," ''Royal Sovereign," "Grafton,"" Theseus,"
"Eepulse," and " Empress of India. Installations
of electric light in factories, mills, mines, and private
houses have also been carried out, and large number
of complete sets of dynamos, cables, fittings, etc.,
for installation abroad have been delivered. In
transmission of power an important order has been
executed for a tramway on the Continent, comprising
eight cars, which have been in operation for the
whole of the summer season. The results obtained
are so satisfactory that an additional order has been
received for equipment of six 25-h.p. cars, and for
the supply of necessary machinery at the station for
this extension. In the smaller electrical branches
there has also been a good demand.
Paterson and Cooper. — Messrs. Paterson and
Cooper have been well employed during the whole
of the year, and exceedingly busy during the latter
part. As in previous years, shiplighting has fur-
nished a considerable portion of the business, and
among the vessels fitted up in 1891 have been the
"Nottingham," " Staveley," "Leicester," and
" Lutterworth," new steamers of the Manchester,
Sheflield, and Lincolnshire Railway Company ; the
"City of London," "City of Agra," "City of
Khios," "City of Edinburgh," and " City of Dublin,"
belonging to G. Smith and Sons* City Line ; " St.
Nicholas " and " St. Sunniva," belonging to the
North of Scotland, Orkney, and Shetland Company ;
also the "America," "Berlin," "Furnessia,"
"Killarney," "Empress of the East," and several
others, including the steam yachts " May,"
" Pathfinder," and " Hermione." The firm has
presently on hand the lighting of steamers
for the Allan Line, for the General Steam
Navigation Company, and for the Clyde Shipping
Company. In all manufacturing departments the
business has been good. The dynamos have
averaged much larger sizes than in previous years,
mahily on account of a large immber being directly
coupled to the driving engines. For machines of
large output coupled to double-acting engines the
multipolar design is adopted, both Gramme and
drum windings being used for the armatures accord-
ing to circumstances. In arc lamps a good business
has been done, a large number having been sold for
use on alternating as well as on direct current circuits.
The sales in measuring instruments have been well
kept up, and the trade in switchboards, fittings,
and accessories has considerably increased. During
the year complete installations have been erected at
the Lancaster Waggon Company's Works, at Bullion-
fields Paper Mills, Invergowrie ; at the residence of
G. Peters, Esq., High Elms, Watford; and at Corona,
Broughty Ferry, the residence of R. A. Mudie, Esq.,
the well-known shipowner. Installations of arc lamps
have also been completed at the shops of Mr. Lipton,
in Dublin, Birmingham, Southampton. Deptford,
and London (Edgware-road). Of the wiring of
private houses for supply from the various supply
companies' mains the firm has had a good share,
while among the large establishments wired and
fitted may be mentioned Messrs. Combe's Brewery,
Messrs. Lambert and Butler's Warehouse, and
the St. George's Club, Hanover-square. The
firm has several contracts still in hand, the
largest being the lighting of the Daily Chronicle
and Lloyd's News oflices in Fleet-street, and the
refrigerating stores and wharf of Messrs. Nelson and
Co. at Lambeth. The former is being wired for 800
l6-c.p. and the latter for 1,600 16-c.p. lamps, and both
installations will include direct-coupled dynamos and
^ngines complete. For the Daily Chronicle offices
^ djrnamos are two in number, with 24in. Gramme
armatures, running at 300 revolutions in a four-pole
field, and directly coupled to vertical engines 13Jin,
cylinder and lOin. stroKe, made by J. and H. Gwynne.
For Nelson's wharf the dynamos, two in number,
are also four-pole, and have '25in. drum armatures,
running at 200 revolutions, directly coupled to
double-crank compound engines. The engines are
made by Messrs. J. and H. Gwynne, for whom the
installation is being carried out, and have 8|^in. and
16in. cylinders with a stroke of 14in.
EoBEY AND Co., LINCOLN. — During the year there
has been an active demand for engines for electric
lighting purposes, not only for isolated installations,
but for large central stations. Electricity seems
dividing itself now sharply into two classes — viz.,
independent installations of moderate extent for
individual consumers just needing the care of one
man to look after them, and in many cases worked
by gas engines ; on the other hand, large central
stations of great extent, taking in an entire town or
district. The medium installation worked for a
number of customers in a comparatively small
district seems, so far as the experience of this
firm goes, to be undergoing the process of elimina-
tion. Dynamos are increasing in size, as con-
sidered by output, and the class of engine most
successfully used are those from 200 h.p. to 500 h.p,
indicated, which work an independent dynamo. Of
this class this firm has made large numbers. Where
space is available, and even where it had to be paid
for dearly, it is found most economical to use long-
stroke horizontal engines worked at high piston
speed, but a moderate number of revolutions, and
each driving its own dynamo through rope gear. Li
the Newcastle Electric Light Supply Company's
installation (which is one of the largest in England)
there are three engines which work to about 200 h.p.,
duplicates of each other, and Messrs. Eobey have
just supplied a fourth which will work to about
500 h.p. The size is thought to be one
which will be largely used in the future, and
will, perhaps, be the most economical for driving
a single machine. The reason for suggesting
this as a maximum power, is because in cases
of accident to either dynamo or engine it is as large
a unit in an installation as ought to be thrown out
of gear at once, even if it be not too large. For
confined situations high-speed vertical compound
engines are now being extensively used, and four
of these have recently been supplied for the street
lighting in London, the two smaller ones being
about 100 h.p. and the two larger 200 h.p. each.
These larger engines will work easily up to 170
revolutions per minute, and dynamos might be built
to couple direct and run at that speed. Li the
London installation, however, they are being driven
by belt, but as there is not a large difference between
the size of the driving wheel on engine and the pulley
on the dynamo, the belt centres can be kept shorter,
and the whole space occupied is very much reduced.
Eeplying to a definite question relating to central
station work, Messrs. Eobey and Co. say : " The
important points, we think, which should be taken
into consideration in central station work are the
size of the unit of distributing machinery and the
method of distribution. As above stated, we think
each engine should drive its own independent
dynamo, and that all countershafting and gearing
connecting one with the other should be dispensed
with, and that, with the exception of one smaller
engine for nmning a few lights during the daytime
or the small hours of the morning, the engine and
machines should be duplicates of each other, with at
least one spare one of each. The method of dis-
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 1, 1892.
15
tribation which seems growing in favour is that of
high-tension alternating-current, with transformers.
Instead of transformers in every establishment
where the light is used, what will probably be
found more economical and convenient will be
to have transforming stations for a large district.
Another matter upon which much has yet to be
learned is the construction, insulation, and especially
the laying of the cables.'' Special attention is called
to the Newcastle Electric Supply distribution, where
Messrs. Robey*s engines are used in connection with
Mordey alternating-current machines, where the
current is being supplied at what is believed to be
the lowest price in the kingdom, and probably in
the world — ^viz., at 4id. per Board of Trade unit.
An installation which can do this and make a com-
mercial success of it is one worthy of attention, and
the method adopted therein is worthy the study of
all parties interested in electric distribution. This
firm, it is well known, still continues to supply large
numbers of engines both for private and central
station installations for the Continent and other parts
of the world.
OORRESPONDENOE.
" One man's word is no man's word
Juiiice needs that both he heard.'
TELEPHONING AT SEA— THE WORD
" TELEPHONE."
Sir, — I would suggest that the late Mr. Stuart's *' sea
telephone" (see p. 579 of your last volume) was nothing
more than a method of conveying signals at sea by the
agency of sound. In January, 1828, a M. Sudr6 presented
to the Academy of Fine Arts in Paris a system of trans-
mitting words by means of musical sounds, which he
called "telephony." It was the subject of extensive
experiments, both in the French navy and elsewhere, an
account of which may be found in the Mechanics' Magazine
for July, 1835, p. 269. The inventor visited England in
that year, and he explained his method at a meeting of the
Royal Society. As an illustration, it may be stated that
the word "age" would be transmitted by playing on a
trumpet or other instrument the notes la (a), sol (g),
and mi (e). In July, 1884, Captain J. N. Tayler, R.N.,
showed a foghorn, which he called a "telephone," at the
Admiralty. The following extract from a newspaper of
the day shows what this "telephone" was :
"At an Admiralty levSe^ last week. Captain J. N.
Taylor's telephone instrument was exhibited to the Lords
Commissioners. The chief object of this powerful wind
instrument is to convey signals during foggy weather, when
no other means presents itself, by sounds produced by
means of compressed air forced through trumpets, which
can be heard at a distance of six miles. This important
instrument will tend to prevent collision at sea and on
railways, and will lessen the horrors of shipwreck and
eapture, and give notice of fire. Vessels in the offing will
be by it directed into harbour, and the time to enter tide
barbours made known from the pier-head. Four notes are
played by opening the valves of the recipient, and the
intensity of sound is proportioned to the compression of
the internal air. The small-sized telephone instrument,
which is portable, was tried on the river, and the signal
notes were distinctly heard four miles off."
The word was used in another sense by Prof. Wheatstone,
who says, in his reply to Cooke (W. F. Cooke, the Electric
Telegraph, 1857, p. 114): "When I made in 1823 my
important discovery that sounds of all kinds might be
transmitted perfectly and powerfully through solid wires,
and reproduced in distant places, I thought that I had the
most efficient and economical means of establishing a
telegraphic (or rather a telephonic) communication between
two remote points that could be thought of. My ideas
respecting a communication of this kind between London
iM Edinburgh you will find io the Journal of the Royal
Institution for 1828. Experiments on a larger scale,
however, showed that the velocity of sound was not
sufficient to overcome the resistance and enable it to be
transmitted efficiently through long lengths of wire."
I cannot find the paper referred to in the Journal for
1828. That for 1831 is the volume in which the paper
appears.
In his answer to the above, Cooke says, at p. 260 : " In
the meantime, the failure at Portsmouth left his [Wheat-
stone's] submarine conception (with his telephone) in
abeyance."
Perhaps some of your American readers will make
enquiries about Mr. Stuart's " telephone " and communicate
the result to the Electiical Engineer, — Yours, etc.,
R. B. P.
ELECTROLYSIS OF GOLD SALTS.
BY ALEXANDER WATI.
In pursuing a series of experiments in the electrolysis
of solutions of salts of gold, it was resolved not alone to
determine the behaviour of various gold salts under the
influence of the electric current, which had received but little
attention in an electro-chemical sense, but also to ascertain
whether certain other saline substances when subjected to
electrolysis in the presence of a gold anode could cause the
metal to become dissolved and to enter into the solution.
It was the writer's desire, moreover, to see if a solution of
gold could be formed in which articles could be electro-gilt
of a good deep gold colour when worked at the
ordinary temperature of the atmosphere, and thus obviate
the necessity of using hot solutions for certain classes of
work. It was also deemed desirable to see what modifications
in the colour of the deposited gold could be obtained that
might prove useful to electro-gilders for producing varied
effects upon ornamental work of various kinds. In this
connection it was hoped that some of the substances used
as precipitants of gold from its solutions would aid the
results aimed at. It should be mentioned that all the
electrolytes produced by the methods described were tried
in their cold state, except where otherwise specified. The
current employed was obtained from one-quart Daniell
cells, and if two or more cells were required they were
coupled in series.
1. Iodide of Gold and Potassium. — A solution of this
double salt was prepared by gradually adding a solution of
iodide of potassium to a neutral solution of terchloride of
e;old, until the whole of the metal was thrown down in the
form of a yellow precipitate of iodide of gold. After
allowing the precipitate to subside, the supernatant
liquor was poured off, and distilled water added to
wash the precipitate, the washing being repeated
several times. The last washing water being removed
by decantation, a strong solution of iodide of potassium
was next gradually poured on to the precipitate,
with constant stirring after each addition, until the
whole of the iodide of gold was dissolved. The solution,
after being filtered, was diluted with about four volumes of
distilled water, and was then electrolysed with the current
from two Daniells in series, a gold plate being used as the
anode and a strip of platinum foil as the cathode. The
current proving insufficient, a third cell was connected, and
soon after a grey deposit formed upon the platinum surface
which in no degree resembled gold ; when plunged into
cold nitro- hydrochloric acid, however, it tardily dissolved,
and its solution indicated the presence of gold, when a
drop or two of a solution of protochloride of tin was added,
the purple of Cassius being at once produced. A strip of
silver was next used as the cathode, the same current being
employed, and soon after its immersion it was noticed that
a salt of a pink colour formed at that electrode, passing
quickly in the direction of the positive plate, and even-
tually settling at the bottom of the vessel in the
form of a red powder. On examining the silver plate, after
some minutes' immersion, it was found that a greater portion
of the de|>osit was of a dark grey colour and firmly adherent,
while on both sides of the plate there appeared patches of a
pretty pink colour, interspersed with the grey film referred
to \ the only tint ot j^Vlovr ^otVi v^^«n^ ^ >^^ m>^^\
16
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 1, 1892.
surface of the back of the plate. That portion of the plate
upon which the film referred to appeared was heated over
a spirit lamp, when the grey part of the deposit speedily
turned a rich deep blue colour, but the pink-coloured
patches remained unaltered. On examining the anode the
immersed surface was found to be coated with a film of
iodine, which readily dispersed when the plate was held
over the flames of a spirit lamp. It was subsequently found
that when a silver cathode was kept constantly moved about
in the solution, while the current was passing, the deposit
assumed the characteristic appearance of gold, but not of a
good colour.
2. Iodide of Gold in Cyanide of Potassium. — A quantity of
moist protiodide of gold, prepared as above, was next dis-
solved in a moderately strong solution of good cyanide of
potassium, and the solution after being filtered was diluted
with about four volumes of distilled water. With the
current from two Daniells, gold of a deep yellow colour
deposited somewhat slowly upon a silver plate. The
solution was next heated to about lOOdeg. F., when a fresh
silver plate was immersed, which became instantly coated
with gold of a fine deep yellow colour much resembling
jewellers' " wet colour " gold in tone. With three cells,
and the cathode kept briskly in motion, a very rifth and
bright deposit was obtained.
3. Gold Protiodide in Svlphocyanide of Potassium, — Moist
iodide of gold was digested in a moderately strong solution
of sulphocyanide of potassium, a*.d after filtering and
diluting with about three volumes of water the solution
was tried with the current from two cells, when gold of a
deep yellow colour formed upon a silver plate. A similar
result was obtained when the solution was warmed, but the
cathode required to be kept gently in motion to ensure a
uniform film, when the metal deposited was of a very fine
colour.
4. Svlphocyanide of Gold by Electrolysis, — A rather strong
solution of sulphocyanide of potassium was electrolysed
with the current from four Daniells in series, a gold anode
and silver cathode being used as the electrodes. The action
was somewhat slow, but in the course of a quarter of an
hour or so a slight film of gold formed u|}on the silver
plate, which assumed an indifferent colour as the deposit
became thicker. An improvement, however, took place
when the solution was warmed and the cathode kept gently
in motion.
5. Auroteriodide of Gold and Potassium. — A solution was
prepared by gradually adding a neutral solution of ter-
chloride of gold to one of iodide of potassium, and the dark
green solution formed was then diluted with water and
electrolysed with the current from three cells. A deposit
of gold, of a somewhat indifferent colour, slowly formed
upon a silver cathode, and the anode was coated with a
film of iodine ; when this film was rubbed with the finger
and white paper smeared with it, an intense blue colour
immediately appeared, which was due to the formation of
iodide of starch, the latter substance being used as a
stiffening material in the manufacture of paper.
5. Teriodide of Gold in Cyanide of Potassium. — As in experi-
ments 2 and 3, the present combination was devised in the
hope that a solution would be obtained which would yield
deposits of gold of good colour without heating the
solution. A quantity of teriodide of gold being prepared
by gradually adding a solution of the terchloride of gold to
one of iodide of potassium, a strong solution of cyanide was
then added, and the resulting liquid, after filtration and
dilution with about four volumes of water, was electrolysed
with the current from two Daniells in series, a silver
cathode being used as before. The solution was at first
used in its cold state, when a film of gold of a good rich
colour was obtained. A third cell was next put into
circuit, and the silver plate kept gently in motion, under
which condition gold of a good deep tone of colour was
obtained which fully equalled in appearance the gilding
produced in warm cyanide solutions. A gilding bath of
the composition given might be found useful in the plater's
workshop.
6. Gold Protiodide in Hyposulphite of Soda, — A solution
was prepared by dissolving recently precipitated and moist
protiodide of gold in a strong solution of hy{)0sulphite of
^tk&j and Hie eolation waa then moderately dilated with
water, and the cold solution then electrolysed with the
current from two cells. A deposit of gold, of good colour,
soon formed upon the silver plate, and much resembled in
tone the deposits obtained in warm cyanide baths.
7. Auroterfluoride of Potassium by Electrolysis. — A strong
solution of fluoride of potassium was electrolysed with the
current from three Daniells in series; gas was freely
liberated at both electrodes, and in about 15 minutes after
immersion of the plates a deposit of gold began slowly to
form upon the silver cathode. On examining the anoae it
was found that a dark orange-coloured film had formed on
the immersed portion of the plate, which strongly emitted
the vapour of fluorine.
8. Auroterbromide of Potassium by Electrolysis. — A solution
of bromide of potassium was prepared by dissolving 60 grains
of the salt in one ounce of distilled water. A gold anode
and platinum cathode, connected with three Daniells, were
then immersed in the liquid, when it was noticed that gas
was freely given off at each electrode, and that a deep
orange-coloured and very dense solution of terbromide of
gold formed at the anode, and flowed from the plate in a
continuous stream, causing the liquid to assume at first a
pale yellow, and after a time a deep orange colour similar
to the analogous chlorine, salt of gold. In the course of
two or three minutes from the commencement, a film of
gold appeared on the surface of the platinum plate, but a
few minutes after the deposit acquired the dark green non-
reguline character, which this metal often assumes when
deposited from some of its solutions by electrolysis, and
indeed, not unfrequently when precipitated from some of
its solutions by chemical reaction. Respecting this green
form of gold, to which reference may have to be made
somewhat frequently, it is clear that although its
colour and non-metallic appearance give no indication
of its real metallic character, that it is, in fact, metallic
gold in a highly comminuted condition, and in this state
bears a close resemblance to a form of iron which the
writer has frequently obtained when electrolysing solutions
of persalts of that metal. The electrodes were next left
undisturbed in the bath, under the action of the same
current, for about four or ^ve hours, at the end of which
time it was found that a profuse spongy mass of gold had
formed at the cathode and spread out until it reached the
anode, when, of course, the current was stopped — the
spongy mass, which was of a nut-brown colour, similar to
the gold obtained in making a parting assay of the metal.
Finding the solution to be too strong in metal for a gold
bath, it was next diluted with about three volumes of
water and was tried again with the same curient as before,
when a silver cathode became coated with a film of gold a
few seconds after immersion, but the colour of the deposit
varied considerably during the immersion of the plate.
Although gilding of a very fair colour may be obtained
from this solution, with care, there is some uncertainty as
to the working of baths prepared with this salt, and it
cannot on this account be recommended as a reliable mate-
rial for making up gilding solutions to be used for practical
purposes.
9. Auroteriodide of Potassium by Electrolysis. — A mode-
rately strong solution of iodide of potassium was electrolysed
with the current from three cells in series, a gold anode
and silver cathode being immersed in the liquid. The
electrolytic action was very prompt, the solution nearest
the anode assuming a deep orange colour almost imme-
diately, causing the bulk of the liquid to acquire a pale
yellow colour, which deepened into a full orange tint in a
very short time. In about 15 minutes from the commence-
ment, the silver cathode was found to be coated with a film
of gold of a good colour. It may be said that in nearly
all respects the results obtained in this experiment re-
sembled the preceding, except that of the two solutions
the latter yielded the better coloured deposit.
10. Auroterbromide of Ammonium by Electrolysis. — ^A
solution of bromide oi ammonium being prepared, this
was electrolysed with the current from two cells in series,
when it was found that the anode, as before, became rapidly
dissolved, and an orange-yellow solution produced, at whicn
point the silver cathode began slowly to receive a
coating of gold, which deepened in colour as the deposit
thickened. In all respects, however, the results obtained
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 1, 1892.
17
in this experimeut closely resembled those noted in experi-
mont 8.
11. AurocfUoride of Ammonium by Electrolysis, — A strong
solution of chloride of ammonium was electrolysed with
the current from three cells, when it was found that a light
brown powder of fulminate of gold formed at the anode
and accumulated at the bottom of the vessel. In less than
half a minute from the commencement a film of gold
appeared upon the silver cathode, but in about one minute
after the deposit appeared of a dense black colour. The
solution was next diluted considerably, and a freshly-
prepared silver plate immersed^ when the deposit became
more reguline, but iridescetit in parts. The current was
now reduced by disconnecting two of the cells, when the
metal deposited in a much better condition. The solution
being a very good conductor, the current from one cell was
found to be fully sufficient for the reduction of the metal,
a very small anode surface being also necessary to secure a
good-coloured film.
fTo be continued.)
PRACTICAL INSTRUMENTS FOR THE MEASURE-
MENT OF ELECTRICITY.
BY J. T. NIBLETT AND J. T. EWEN, B.SC.
I. — Introductory.
It is only within the last few years that in this country
the twin subjects of Electricity and Magnetism have been
really promoted to the dignity of a science. Formerly the
crude results obtained from electrical and magnetic experi-
ments were to a ^reat extent dependent upon a rude system
of arbitrary and ill-defined units, which, being but imper-
fectly understood, were often the cause of much i)erplexity to
the uninitiated investigator. As a result of the brilliant
labours of the British Association's Electrical Standards
Committee, a rational set of units was at length elaborated,
and this had the effect of placing electrical investigation on
a firm and sound basis. The former chaotic state of
electrical nomenclature, and its correspondingly complicated
system of measurement, have now passed away, and
electricity, freed from the trammels which for so many
years liave hampered and impeded its progress, has at length
entered into the region of an exact science. With our
modern system of standards and units, differences of
potential or electrical pressure, rate of flow or density of
current, resistance to flow of current, and work performed
in overcoming this resistance, may now be stated with the
utmost degree of i>recision.
Coincident with this precise definition of the electrical
units, appliances of gi*eat delicacy were constructed for their
practical realisation and reproduction, and at the i)resent
time copies of all the standard electrical units may be
obtained at a comparatively low cost, and of even greater
accuracy than the units of mass or dimensions.
Witlun the last few years enonnous strides have been
made in the production of sensitive and reliable electricity-
measuring instruments. The antiquated and troublesome
galvanometers on the sine and tangent systems are rapidly
being superseded by the more convenient direct-reading, and
in many cases dead-beat, instruments. By the employment
of simple and easily-managed current and potential measurers,
the merest electrical tyro is now enabled to read off at a glance
the amount of current and electrical pressure being develoi)ed
by a dynamo, or the energy being consumed by one or more
lamps, and to tell, by a simple arithmetical calculation, the
amount of electrical energy stored in an accuuudator, or
involved in the transformation of a current of high intensity
into one of lower and more useful electromotive force.
The aim of these articles is to describe the theoretical
considerations involved in the construction of the various
electricity measuring instruments, the methods employed in
their manufacture, and their conunercial applications.
We hold that an electrical engineer who thoroughly
understands the construction of the apparatus he is using
is far more likely to detect and localt^e any errors arising
from imperfect workmanship or bad design than one who
merely takes everything for granted, and who relies abso- I
lutely for his results upon a given constant or a tablt of
equivalents. This applies to the use not only of commercial
instruments, but also to those employed for purposes of
calibration, and to standards.
We shall begin by defining and explaining the most
commonly used electrical units, and their practical realisation
and reproduction ; and shall then go on to describe the
various instruments to be obtained for measurements in
terms of these units. Considerable attention will be devoted
to the technicalities of construction of these instruments,
and to the different characteristics which must be kept in
view when it has been decided whether they are intended
for measuring direct or alternate currents, or both. The
various methods of calibration will be considered, and some
special attention will be bestowed on the standardisation
and re-calibration of standard instruments.
We will divide the subject of Electricity-Measuring Instru-
ments into the different classes under which the instruments
seem naturally to ari-ange 'themselves. Thus, in the first
place, we have the two great classes — Non-Recording
and Recording Instruments. These again subdivide into—
Resistance, Potential, Current, Energy, and Capacity Mea-
surers ; and these still further into — Instruments for Direct
Currents, for Alternate Currents, and for both.
In our treatment of the subject we shall endeavour, as
far as possible, to confine ourselves to the essential and
desirable characteristics of good and theoretically sound
instruments, leaving the consideration of highly-polished
metal work and aesthetically-designed outside cases — too
often, alas ! the only recommendation which certain classes
of instruments possess — to take care of itself.
Units.
The three principal units iLsed in electrical measurements
are the Ohm, the unit of Resistance ; the Volt, the unit of
Electromotive Force ; and the Ampere, the unit of Current ;
and to these may be add<'d the H^att, the unit of Power or
Hate of doing Work. Other units not so commonly in use
are the Coulmi^, the unit of Quantity ; and the Farad, the
unit of Electrostatic Cajmcity. The Coulomb was formerly
termed the JVchcr, and in the Indian Telegraph Department
the Ampere used to be known as the CErstedt.
Ohm, — The unit of Electrical Resistance, the Ohm, is
usually defined as the resi-^tance offered by a column of pure
mercury of a given section and length, and at a certain fixed
temperature, to the flow of an electrical current. Unfortu-
nately some little difliculty has arisen in assigning a definite
value to the unit of Resistance, and many suggestions have
been made as to what the real value of the Ohm should be.
From these may be cited the Siemens Ohm, the British
Association Ohm (usually written the B.A. Ohm), the
Kohlrausch Ohm, the Legal Ohm, the True or Rayleigh Ohm,
and the Ohm jiroposed by Messrs. Duncan, Wilkes, and
Hutchinson, as the result of an investigation made at the
Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, U.S.A. The British
Association Ohm, however, is now the one generally adopted,
and, in this country at least, when the term " Ohm " is used
without qualification, the B.A. Ohm is always understood.
In the second column of the following table are given the
various lengths of a uniform column of pure mercury of one
square millimetre in sectional area and at a temperature of
Odeg. centigrade, whose electrical resistances are stated as
representing the respective values of the Ohm, and in the
three succeeding columns these values are given expressed in
terms of (3) the B.A. Ohm ; (4) the Legal Ohm ; and (5) the
True Ohm.
Table 1. — Relative Values ok tue VARiors "Ohms."
I>escriptiou
Length of
mercury
column 1 iq.
mm. section
and at O'' C.
Values expressed in terms of
•' Ohm."
RA. Ohm.
Legal Ohm.
True Ohm.
Siemens Ohm
Centimetret
100-00
104 82
104-93
106-00
106-27
106-34
0-9541
10000
10010
1-0113
1-0139
1-0146
0-9435
0-9889
0-9S99
1-0000
1-0026
10033
0*9411
B.A. Ohm
0-9864
KohlrauBch Ohm ...
Leeral Ohm
V WW
0-9874
0*9975
True Ohm
1-0000
•♦Baltimore "Ohm..
1-0016
(To be cofUinued,)
18
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY I, 1892.
NEW ELECTRIC RAILWAYS FOR LONDON.
The comparative success of the existing electric railway
in London has evidently given an impetus to the movement
for providing still further means of locomotion of a similar
kind. For consideration during the forthcoming session of
Parliament there are no fewer than five Bills which propose
either the construction of new electric railways or the
extension of lines already authorised.
Great Northern a'sd City Railway.
Among the most important of these is the Groat
Northern and City Railway Bill, which is a proposal for
the incorporation of a new company with powers to
construct a line of railway from the Canonbury branch of
the Great Northern line near Finsbury Park to the City.
The capital of the proposed company is fixed at £1,500,000,
in shares of £10 each, and the works which it is proposed
to execute are (1) a railway five furlongs 5 70 chains in
length in the parish of St. Mary, Islington, commencing by
a junction with the up-line of the Finsbury Park and
Canonbury branch of the Great Northern Railway and
terminating at Drayton-park, Holloway ; (2) a railway one
furlong one chain in length commencing by a junction
with the downline of the Great Northern Railway and
terminating at the same point as Railway No. 1 ;
(3) a railway two miles five furlongs 1*40 chains in
length, commencing by a junction with the terminus of
Nos. 1 and 2 railways and terminating in the parish
of St. Stephen, Colemanstreet, at Finsbury-pavement,
opposite the north side of West street. The method
of construction proposed is similar to that adopted
on the City and South London line, the greater portion
being constructed in two tunnels for separate up and down
traffic. The railway will be approached by means of stairs
or inclines, and hydraulic or other lifts. The tunnels are
to be constructed by means of steel or other sufficient metal
ehields, driven forward by hydraulic pressure as the work
proceeds, the shields being of sufficient length to protect
the whole of the soil for a reasonable distance both in front
and behind the working faces. The Bill provides that the
exits and entrances of the station buildings and the waiting
accommodation for passengers shall be so designed and of
such an extent as to secure the least practicable inconveni
ence to the public traffic in the adjoining streets, and plans
of the stations outside the City are to be submitted to the
London County Council. The period for the completion of
the works is limited to five years, and provision is made
for cheap fares for the labouring classes, the proposal being
to run two trains each morning and evening at fares not
exceeding a penny for each journey. Power is given to enter
into an arrangement with the Great Northern Company to
construct the line.
ISUNGTON AND THE CiTY.
The City and South London Railway Company have
brought in a Bill repeating their proposal of last year for
the construction of a line extending their system to The
Angel, at Islington. Last session the Bill was thrown out
mainly because of the fact that no physical junction was
provided in the City with the existing line. It is now
proposed to construct a line from near the St. George's
Church, in the Borough, to the northern end of the City-
road, Islington, near The Angel — a distance of two miles
five furlongs three chains and 50 links — and, in addition,
two subways for foot passengers ; the first, under the
High-street, Borough, to afford an access from the under-
ground electric railway to the London and Brighton
and South-Eastern Railway stations at London Bridge;
the other, under Arthur-street East, which will give
access to the present electric railway at its terminus at
Fish-street-hill. The mode of construction is the same
as that described above, and the period named for
the completion of the works is five years. Provision is
made for agreements with the Metropolitan, the Metro-
politan District, the Joint Committee of those railways,
the London, Brighton, and South Coast, the Great Northern,
and the Central London Railway for the purposes of con-
struction, working, traffic, etc., and the City and South
Xondou Company is to be authorised to raise an additional
capital of £810,000, with further borrowing powers of
£270,000.
Central London Railway.
The Central London Railway Company, who were em-
powered last session to construct a line from Shepherd's
Bush to the City, are proposing this session to extend their
powers by the making of a line from under Mansion House-
street, near the junction with Queen Victoria street, to the
Liverpool-street Station of the Great Eastern Railway Com-
pany. In respect of this scheme they propose to raise an addi-
tional capital not exceeding £150,000, in shares of £10 each,
and to take additional borrowing powers to the extent of
£50,000. The time proposed for the carrying out of the
work is limited to five years, and the rates and charges are
to be the same as were authorised in the Act of last session.
Power is proposed to be taken to enter into agreements
with the Great Eastern Railway Company, the London and
North-Western Railway Compaiiy, the North London
Railway Company, and the Metropolitan Railway Company
for the interchange, transmission, and delivery of traffic on
the respective railways, as well as for the construction, use,
management, and maintenance of the stations, subways,
lifts, etc., of the company.
Baker-street and Waterloo.
There are no less than three new railways projected from
and to Waterloo, one of which is an underground railway
to be worked by electricity, commencing at the western end
of New-street, Upper Baker-street, in the vicinity of Dorset-
square, running thence by the southern end of Langham-
place at its junction with Regent-street, the Quadrant in
Regent-street, opposite the County Fire Office, to James-
street, Lambeth, about 90 yards from its junction with
Lower-marsh. The first directors of the new company
would be Colonel the Hon. Henry Walter Campbell,
Major-General Charles Taylor Du Plat, Colonel
Ambrose Humphrys Bircham, Lieutenant-Colonel Francis
Douglas Grey, Mr. Arthur Ralph Ricardo, and one
other person to be nominated by the foregoing. The
capital would be £1,250,000, consisting of 125,000 £10
shares, with power to subdivide the same into preferred
and deferred half shares. It is sought to enter into
working agreements with the Metropolitan, South-Eastern,
Metropolitan District, Central London, and London and
South- Western Railway Companies. Cheap fares, not
exceeding Id. for each journey, would be charged to the
labouring classes up to seven o'clock in the morning and
after six o'clock in the evening. The Bill also contains
clauses saving the rights of the Crown, the Thames Con-
servancy, under whose direction the works under the
Thames would be executed, and the London County
Council, and general provisions for the protection of water,
gas, hydraulic power, and electric companies ; and the time
fixed for the completion of the works is five years.
Royal Exchange and Waterloo.
In addition to the intended Waterloo and City Electric
Railway, it is also proposed to extend the London and
South- Western and London, Brighton, and South Coast
Railways to a terminus in the City, for which purpose it is
sought to incorporate a new company, consisting, among
others, of the Hon. F. S. A. Hanbury-Tracy, Major John
Eustace Jameson, Mr. Campbell Praed, and Mr. James
Cholmeley Russell, with a capital of £2,700,000, divided into
270,000 £10 shares. Junctions would be formed with
the main, Windsor, and other lines of the London and
South-Western Company at W9,terloo Station, and with
the London, Brighton, and South Coast Railway in the
parish of St. John, Horseleydown, where it crosses Ber-
mondsey-street by means of a bridge ; and the new lines
would run by way of South ivark-street to a point in the
City close to the junction of Crooked-lane with Arthur-
street, crossing the Thames by means of a bridge, in con-
nection with which a free public footway would be con-
structed. Three years is the time fixed for the compulsory
acquirement of land, and five years for the completion of
the works. It is also sought to enter into working agree-
ments with the London and South-Western and the London,
Brighton, and South Coast Companies, and to pay interest
out of capital during construction.
Me electrical engineer. January i, i89-2.
19
TRADE MOTES-ELECTRICAL AMD MECHANICAL.
LATHE ATTACHMENT.
A modified form of ahapiDg attachment is ahown in our
Uloatntion, designed by Mr. F. M. Rogers, of 21, Finebury-
parement, KC, to meet the demand for a toot of this clus
op&ble of working on ligbt-built BiDgle-geared treadle
lawee, inch m ftra used by amateurs and other lieiht metal-
workui. The stroke is fixed, and is determined by the
throw of the eccentric sheave, shown in Fig. 2, which is
screwed direct to the nose of the mandrel, and travels in the
grooved path upon the sliding face-plate, thereby imparting
B noiseless reciprocating motion to it. The stroke in the sise
shown, which is that adapted to a 4in. centre lathe, is about
Sin., wbich enables as many as 120 strokes per minute to
be taken with ease in soft metal, such as brass or gunmetal.
New Form of Laths Attaclmient,
The V-shaped packing blocks are of guumetil, and an
adjustment is provided fur taking up we^ir. When fitted
witli a parallel vice, this little tool will rapidly shape odd
pieces of metal wbich would otherwise have to be filed up.
larger work is bolted to the grooved face-plate. The
slide rest is operated by hand or by a self-acting motion.
The price, which is moderate, should place it within the
reach of every metal-worker.
A KBW FORM OF ELECTRIC MEASURING INSTRUMENT
The accompanying illustration sbnws an electrostatic
initniment recently brought out by Messrs. Swinburne
and Co. for experimental work in coRnecUoa with alternate
corrents. Instead of quadrants there arc two pair of half
discs, BO that the angle of deflection can be large. The
needle consists of two half discs fastened on a metallic
arbor. It is held by top and bottom metallic suspensions.
One disc is in the npper box and the oUier in the lower.
The boxes are connected, not to ordinary terminals, hut to
highly-insulated flexibles ; as the ordinary terminals are
not suitable for high pressures. The instrument can be
used as a voltmeter ; or it may be connected up to measure
power by any of the various methods involving two
readings. It can also be connected up as a direct-reading
wattmeter. The electromagnet below the boxes acts on a
copper drum, and renders the instrument dead-beat. This
magnet is excited by a cell For large readings the torsion
head and pointer on top of the instrument are used, but
for small readings the mirror is employed. Four of these
instruments have been lent to Dr. Fleming to carry out
experiments on the measurement of power by various
di&erent methods.
A TWO THOUSAND-VOLT STREET LAMP.
Street lighting by alternate currents has for some time
past presented considerable difficulties. In moat cases
transformers are arranged in the houses, and the stations
have high-pressure leads only. To run incandescent lamps
it is therefore necessary to employ transformers and a
system of low-pressure leads. Messrs. Swinburne and Co.
have brought out a lamp wbich contains a small trans-
former, and is connected direct to the high-pressure system
without any low-pressure loads. A 32-cp. lamp, with pro-
tector, is arranged under a large enamelled iron shade,
which is secured to the base case of a small transformer.
The efficiency of the transformer is high, considering how
small it is, being, according to the makers, just nnder 90
per cent.
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
ELMORE'S WISE HANDFACTURING COMPANY. LIMITED.
Directors : J. Jepeoa AtkinsoD, Esq. ; Edward J. Canon, Eaq. ;
John T, Cooper, EtKL; John MacfsrUn, Esq. ; Sir John H. Moms,
K.C.8.I. ; William Elmore, Esq. (msnagintt director). Secretorjr :
Mr. J. Shurmer.
Report of the Directors preMDted at the first ordinary Koneral
meetiDg of the Company, held at the Cannon-street Hotel, E.G.,
on Wednesday last
The Directors have the pleasure to sabtnit their report, and the
aocomponytiig stat«ment of the Company's audited acoounte, for
the period commencing with the incorporation of the Company on
March 15, 1890, and ending on October 'i\, 1891. The period in
question has been devoted entirely to the erection of the Coakpany's
works upon 13 acres of freehold land purchased from the parent
company, and immediately adjoining that company's works. The
main building consists of a series of Days, each 40Uft, long by 35ft.
wide, ha^'ing a total width of 350ft., under one roof, ana covering
a space of about 3^ acres. These buildings have been designed with a
view to an output of 140 tons per week. There are also offices for
the staff and Managing Director complete in every reepect, together
with convenient store and packine-shed, with sidings from the
Midland and Great Northern Rauways already connected up
therewith. The actual pro|^reaa made at the works, h reported
by the Managing Director, is as follows ; Buildinge, comprising
shop, engine-house, depositing -sheds, boiler-houee, dynamo and
engine house, and machine shop, for an output of 140 tons per week ;
chimney shaft, 240ft. high, for 280 tons ; railway sidii^s ; over-
head crsjiee throughout, and melting furnaces and flues for 140
tons ; boilers, generalinK engines, dynamos, and electrical
switches for 44 Urns ; fuel economisers, tanks, and tank gearing
for 35 tons ; engine and dynamo for the electric lighting of the
whole works inside and out ; shop engine, shafting, and aiUitlon^
gearing ; slitting, Battening, straitening, and other machinery for
70 tons a week. From this enumeration It will be seen that the
works will make a start with on output of about 35 tons a week.
This can be readily increased up to 70 tons a week with little
additional expenditure above that already Incurred. The Company
baa also acquired from the parent company, upon a moderate
royalty, the sole license outside the requirements of the parent
company for the manufacture of copper sheet under a patent
pany was formed and the buildings oommenced, the Directoia
have teamed with satisfaction that the whole of the proposed
output can be readily disposed of in the form of ribbon or tape.
and planished sheet, at a (>iofit considerably in excess of that
estimated from the sale of wire spirals. The Company will there-
fore neither erect wire-drawing plant on a large scale for the
present, nor dispose of its copper spirals to wire-drawera, thus
adding to thegroes earnings of the Company one manufacturing
profit. Mr. E^ore, managing director, reports that early in the
so
THE ELECTWCAL engineer, JANUARY 1, 189^.
year 1892 the Company will be in a position to commence
with an output of 35 tons per week. In regard to the
accounts, these are exceedingly simple ; inasmuch as no
trading account having yet been opened, the only outeoingp beyond
capitiJ expenditure are those occurring under administration
expenses, which, howerer, have been reduced by one-half, largely
in consequence of the satisfactory profit derived from a judicious
investment last year in Consols and Bank of England stock. The
auditors, Messrs. Deloitte, Dover, Griffith, and Co., offer them-
selves for re-election, and the Directors recommend a payment to
them of 35 guineas for their services.
Balance-sheet, 31st October, 1891.
Dr. £ 8. d.
Nominal capital —
150,000 ordinary shares of £2
each 300,000 0 0
10 founders* shares of £2 each . 20 0 0
s. d.
300,020 0 0
Share capital issued —
67,385 ordinary shares of £2 each 134,770 0 0
1,360 less shares forfeited 2,720 0 0
66,025
Less calls in arrear
Add amount received on
forfeited shares
10 founders' shares of £2 each
Premium on shares issued —
£1 per share on 66,025 shares ...
Less in arrear
Add premiums received in respect
of lorfeited shares
132,050 0 0
12,751 5 0
119,298 15 0
390 0 0
119,688 15 0
20 0 0
66,025 0 0
3,240 0 0
62,785 0 0
62 10 0
119,708 15 0
62,847 10 0
Of which one-half credited to vendors in part con-
sideration of purchase price
Reserve fund — one-half of premiums received to
date
Sundry creditors
Cr.
Cost of licenses
Cost of land at Leeds
Investment account
BuUdings £25,891 5 6
Plant and machinery 15,391 5 9
31,423 15 0
31,423 15 0
8,301 19 11
£190,858 4 11
£ s. d.
111,505 0 0
13,000 0 0
8,200 0 0
Stock of raw copper
Furniture, fixtures, and fittings
Administration expenses, viz. :
Rents, rates, and insurance
Stationery, printing, and adver-
tising
Travelung expenses
Law charges, etc.
Carriage
Salaries
Directors' fees to Sept. 30, 1891
Office expenses, postages, etc. ...
Less:
Interest and dis-
count received ...£1,725 3 5
Profits on invest-
ments 891 18 7
Transfer fees 76 18 6
41,282 11 3
5,314 17 10
329 14 10
£427 18 8
210 3 10
78 6 11
190 8 3
102 7 6
1,812 6 0
2,250 0 0
196 14 3
5,268 5 5
2,694 0 6
Sundry debtors
Cash at bankers and in hand :
In London 7,315 17 10
At Leeds 850 11 10
2,574 4 11
485 6 5
8,166 9 8
£190,858 4 11
The first annual ordinary general meeting of the shareholders of
Elmore's Wire Manufacturing Company, Limited, was held on
Wednesday at the Cannon-street Hotel, under the presidency of
Mr. J. Jepson Atkinson.
The Seoretary (Mr. J. Shurmer) having read the notice con-
vening the meeting,
The Chairman said : (lentlemen, the report speaks for itself, and
is so exceedingly simple that in addressing you I can have very
little to say. \Vhat will strike you first is that a company calling
ilself a wire manufacturing companv should propose to you, its
shareholders, after you have subacribed your capital, not even to
put down plant to draw wire at all. This admits of an easy expla-
nation. Gentlemen connected with the wire-drawing trade, and
having large capital invested in drawing plant, approacned us some
time previous to your last general meeting, and having thoroughly
testea the quality of the copper to be proiduced b}r us offerea to
take our entire output at a price which, while satisfying us, did
not interfere with tneir own business of drawing. Your Directors
considered that this arrangement was better than entering into
competition with the whole trade. This was explained to you at
the last general meeting. Since then we have ascertained the
fact that by depositing our large copper tubes up to about
;^in. and over, and* then cutting them up into a wide spiral
of, say, 2in., which can be done very easily indeed, we nave
a form of copper-ribbon or tape used for electric lighting
and transmission of power. While the demand for this copper-
tape exceeds our entire output, the price is much in excess of
the best price we could obtain for wire spirals such as the wire-
drawers would have taken ; so that, even before the whole of our
works are complete, we shall have a better market for our produce
than was contemplated when the prospectus was issued. The
electric lighting ox a town like Leecis would keep us busy for a
length of time, and I am informed chat for the electric lighting of
London alone over 100,000 tons of this kind of strip will be used.
A second very simple invention is likely to fonn an important
source of revenue tx> us. It was found that by exposing the mandrel
to the oxidising action of the atmosphere for a few minutes when a
certain thickness of copper was deposited upon it, and then continu-
ing the operation till a similar thickness of copper was deposited.and
by a continual repetition of this process, a series of tubes could be
formed entirely separate and distinct from one another. One cut
down the length of these superimposed tubes gave, when opened
out, a number of beautifully-burnished sheets of perfectly even
surface and thickness, and equal in every way to those known in
the trade as planished sheets. These, of the size furnished by us,
cannot be procured at the present time in the market, and conse-
quently they will command a high price. All I have to say in
addition to this is that this meeting was put off to the last
minute in the hope that I should be able to announce to vou that
the 35-ton plant was at work. The fog and the Christmas
holidays have prevented it, but there is steam in our boilers
and very little more to do at the plant, and we hope within three
weeks or so to be at work. Our business being a mere repetition
of the same process over and over again, and the fact that we have
no customers to seek or market to create, make it evident that as
soon as ever we get a start our dividend-earning will commence.
Some of you have seen the works, and know from what you have seen
(hat a great deal has been done, and the drawing on the table will
give those who have not been down an idea of the &ize of our
promises, which, I am told, comprise the largest shed in York-
shire. To give you an idea of riiow largo a place it is, I may say
that I took the managing director of the largest coal company in
the North of England to see Mr. Elmore, and as wo walked through
the buildings ho said to mo : ^* I supjioso you are going to employ
5,000 hands here." I took him to Mr. Elmore, who, after showing
the labour-saving apparatus and the process, was able to tell him
that we should not employ 5,000, or 1,000, or even 100 hands, but
less than 30. That will give you some idea of the advantages of
the process. I have nothing further to say to you, gentlemen ;
but Mr. Elmore or I will bo very glad to answer any questions
that may be put to us.
Mr. William Xlmore (managing director) : The drawings on
the table will give you some idea of the magnitude of the building
and of the 0(>erationH carried on. We have one building which
will cover something like 3^ acres under one i*oof— one of the most
magnificent buildings in Yorkshire. It is all complete now, and
one-third of the plant will certainly be ready for oi)eration in the
course of a fortnight ; that is eiiusA to .^ tons per week. I may
say that we have been impeded very much indeed by the very
serious delays of the various contractors who are supplying the
manufacturing plant and some of the buildings. The contractors
who put the roof on the large building to which I have just referred
were something like five months behind with their contract ; but
everything about the building is now completed, and the plant is
capable of turning out 35 tons per week. We have got steam in
the boilers now, and the engines are actually working, therefore
there is not the slightest doubt that in a fortnight from now we
shall be commencing the output I have mentioned. As soon as the
first 35-ton plant is in operation we shall commence upon the next
portion of 35 tons, and so on until we fill the whole of this building,
which is capable of an output of 140 tons per week. There is a
demand upon us even at the present moment for far more than we
can produce, which is exceedingly satisfactory, and at a very
handsome price, which will leave a very large profit. I shall he
very glad to answer any questions any gentleman may wish to put.
Mr. Guarraoiao said Mr. Elmore had stated that with the
present plant there would be an output of 35 tons per week. He
wished to ask if it was simply a question of multiplying the tanks,
etc., to increase the output to 140 tons, or whether they would
require further motive power.
Mr. KImore, in reply, said this was fully explained in the report.
Buildings, comprising shop, engine-house, depositing-sheds,
boiler-house, dynamo and engine house, and machine shop, had
been completed for an output of 140 tons per week. The chimney
shaft, which was 240ft. nigh (a magnihcent piece of work), was
good for an output of 280 tons. The railway sidings on the
lidland and Great Northern Railways had been completed. The
overhead cranes had also been completed, as well as the melting
furnaces and flues for 140 tons ; the boilers, generating engines,
dynamos, and electrical switches for 44 tons, and the fuel
economisers, tanks, and tank gearing for 35 tons. The engine
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 1, 1892.
21
Bod dynamo for the electric lighting of the whole works, inside and
out, had likewise been completed, and also the shopengine, shafting,
and additional gearing and slitting, flattening, straightening, and
other machinery for 70 tons a week. Therexore, with very little
additional expense they would have an output of 70 tons per week,
but they intended to commence with 35 tons.
The duilrman then moved : ** That the Directors* report and
etatemont of accounts for the period ending October 31 last be
passed and adopted.''
Mr. Xdward J. Carson seconded the resolution, which was put
and carried unanimously.
Mr. Semtton proposed the re-eleccion of Messrs. IXeloitte,
Dover, Griffiths, and Co., as auditors for the ensuing year.
\ Wlilta seconded the motion, which was agreed to.
r. Blomer moved : ** That the best thanks of the meeting be
given to the Chairman for presiding on this occasion, and also to
the Directors and officers tor their efficient management of the
affairs of the Company."
This was seconded by Mr. White, and passed with acclamation.
Mr. Gnarraolno said he did not think the shareholders should
separate without according a special vote of thanks to Mr. William
Elmore.
r. John T. Cooper seconded the resolution, which was adopted.
\ Xlmore, in acknowledging the compliment, expressea the
hope that no effort on his part would be wanting to make the
boainess a thorough success, as he intended it shoulabe.
The [Koceeding^ then terminated.
ELMORE'S PATENT COPPER DEPOSITING COMPANY,
LIMITED.
Directors: J. Jepson Atkinson, Esq.; Edward J. Carson, Esq.;
John T. Cooper, Esq. ; G. C. V. Holmes, Esq. ; John Macfarlan,
Eea.; Sir John H. Morris, K.C.S.I ; Frederick L. Rawson, Esq.,
M.LE.E. ; William Elmore, Esq. (managing director). Secretary:
Mr. J. Shurmer.
Report of the Directors presented to the second ordinary general
meeting of the Company, held at the Cannon-street Hotel on
Wednesday last.
Your Directors have pleasure in submitting to the shareholders
their report, and in congratulating them on the satisfactory
technical and commercial prospects of the Company. They also
submit the accompanying statement of the accounts for the year
ending Jane 30th, 1891, which shows a credit balance at the end
of the preceding year of £77,825. Is. 4d , from which two
dividends of lOs. each, making £1 on each £2 share, were paid.
It will be seen that the accounts show credit balances on the 30th
June last of £14,261. 17s. lOd., made up of £5,000 royalties on
copper sheets received in advance, £8,558. 7s. premiums and
profit on land, and balance of profit and loss of £703. 10s. lOd.,
a satisfactory result considering that the Company had only been
able to manufacture small quantities of articles at the date of the
making up of the accounts— work on a large commercial scale not
having been then commenced. The Directors have much satis-
faction in announcing the successful completion of the 20-ton
plant, and thus the programme of work set forth in the prospectus
nas been carried out. The cost of manufacture has also now
been found to be only about ^d. per pound weight of
finished goods (see re|>ort below)— that is to say, about one-half
the cost that the iMrectors estimated in the prospectus —
whilst the statements as to the technical features of the
process have been entirely proved. The Directors are the more
gratified in being able to refer to these results, as, though the
application of the essential part of the Messrs. Elmore's invention
has remained unchanged, various difficulties connected with the
mechanical details of the process, Inseparable from the commercial
development of all important inventions, were encountered These
caused some considerable delay. The Managing Director reports
that all these difficulties have now not only been successfully
overcome, but that they have led to the taking out of additional
patents of great value, which will have the important practical
effect of prolonging the monopoly of the invention. Foremost
amongst tnese may be mentioned the patent for the manufacture
of sheet copper, the license to work which on a royalty, which
will prove a valuable source of income to this Company, has been
granted to Elmore^s Wire Manufacturing Company. The Directors
desire specially to draw the attention of the shareholders to the
purchase of the Haigh Park Estate, Leeds, consisting of 127 acres
of freehold land, on a portion of which site the Company's works
have been erected. The purchase of this property was rendered
advisable by the impossibility of acquiring portions of it required
for the purposes of the Company and its future extensions,
except at the price of £2,000 per acre, whereas the price
actually paid for the whole estate was only £534 per acre, in-
cluding all expenses. The land is within half a mile of the
borou^ of Leeds, connected by sidings with the Midland and
Great x^orthem Railways, and has a wharf on the Aire and Calder
Canal, which latter bounds the estate for three-quarters of a mile.
It has an extensive frontage to the Pontefract high road, and is in
cloee proximity to cheap ^>al supplies. The new line of the South
Leeds Junction Railway, for wnich a Bill has been lodged in
Parliament, is planned to run through the estate. These advan-
tages and improvements have resulted in what the Directors
foresaw — viz., a great increase in the value of the land, which
moat make the purchase a valuable acquisition for the Company.
Negotiations have already t€kken place for the sale of portions at a
conuderably higher price than that paid. A plot of 13 acres has
been disposed of at £1,000 per acre to Elmore's Wire (^/ompany,
and this price, whilst yielding an excellent profit to your Company,
is nevertheless 50 per cent, below the price demanded for this plot
by the former owner, and the Directors are advised that they will
be enabled to dispose of the whole of the land not required for the
purposes of the Company at a similar profit. The completion of
the 20- ton plant was lately marked by an invitation to the larger
shareholders to tee it at work, and over lOU, from various parts of
the country, availed themselves of tliis invitation, and they
expressed the greatest satisfaction at what they saw. The
Messrs. Elmore have made a joint report to the Board as to the
earning powers of the works. This re{K)rt is of a most important
character and is enclosed herewith. By this re[)ort it will be seen
that the profits of the works as now completed are put at over
£45,000 per annum, being 30 per cent, upon the present capital of
the Company, whilst when the time comes for doubling the output
to 40 tons per week the profits will be increased to over £95,000
per annum, equal to nearly 50 per cent, upon the increased capital
that will then be required. These returns, extraordinary as they
may seem, Mr. Elmore fully believes will be exceeded by
actual results ; and considering that the report takes no account
of important sources of profit, such as sales of licenses,
recovery of precious metals, and special kinds of work, the
Directors see no reason to doubt the cone usions therein contained.
From the numerous testimonials from important firms, copies of
some of which have already been despatch^ to the shareholders,
it has been shown that the goods supplied to customers have given
complete satisfaction, and of this the numerous repeat orders, and
the offers of a very large additional business at remunerative
prices, are a still better smd more practical proof. The Directors
desire, in conclusion, to record their belief that now that the Company
may be considered to have entered upon its legitimate manufac-
turing business on a commercial scale, the shareholders will find
that in the Elmore invention they possess a process that will be a
continued source of profit, increasing from year to year, as the
quality of the goods produced becomes more and more known.
The Directors who retire are Sir John Morris, Mr. Atkinson, and
Mr. Carson ; the former, owing to ill-health, does not seek re-
election ; the latter two are eligible and offer themselves for
re-election. The auditors, Messrs. Price, Waterhouse, and Co.,
also retire and offer themselves for re-election.
Since the Direct^A' report was made out, the result has been
received from Leeds of an important competitive trial that has
just taken place of an Elmore tube 9in. in diameter and ^in. thick
against the best brazed tube obtainable, of similar size, made by
the ordinary system. The tests showed that the brazed tuble
burst in an uneven manner at 4481b. pressure. The Elmore tube
stood 1,4561b. pressure, being over three times as strong, and then
gave way gradually and evenly. Some idea may be formed of
the strength of the Elmore tube when it is mentioned that the
testing machinery had to be specially prepared, owing to the
enormous resisting power of the Elmore tubes.
Rei'Ort of Manaoing Director.
To the Directors, Elmore^a Patent Copper Depositing Company ^
Limited,
Pontefract-road, Leeds, Nov. 30th, 1891.
Gentlemen, — As requested, I beg to hand you my estimate of
the approximate annual profits to be earned by the 20-ton per
week plant, now complete and in operation at the above works, as
follows :
Proceeds of 20 tons of copper tubes and other articles,
per week, which, })er annum (of 50 weeks) is 1,000 tons,
e(jual to 2,240,000 [x>und8 weight, at Is. per pound ... £112,000
(Is. l|d. per pound weight of copper being the average
selling price calculated upon the total of the orders now
on the Company's books being executed).
It is important to note that for every Id. per pound over
Is. added to the selling price of tubes manufactured by
this Company, on a basis of 20 tons per week, over
£9,000 per annum will be added to the profits.
Less cost of production.
Deduct cost of 1,081 tons rough copper bars, at £50 per
ton (market price of Chili bar to-day is £44. 10s. ) ...... 54,050
£57,950
*Coal consumed, 80 tons per week, say 4,0(X)
tons for 50 weeks at lOs. per ton £2,(X)0
*Labour £40 per week is per annum of 50 weeks... 2, OCX)
*Oil, chemicals, and sunaries, say £10 per week,
is per annum of 50 weeks 500
'Contingencies, at £10 per week 500
5,000
52,950
Allow for depreciation of plant 2,500
Net profit £60,450
* Equal to about ^. per pound weight for cost of manufacture.
Upon the basis of actual cost at these works, and experienoe
gained on the practical scale to date, I have added to every item
from 25 per cent, to 50 per cent, for the purpose of meeting any
contingency and being perfectly safe. You will be pleased to note
that the cost of manufacture is about ^d. per pound, my original
estimate bein^ Id. per pound. I have made a deduction for wear
and depreciation at the rate of 50 per cent, of the total working
expenses. Without taking credit for gold and silver recovered
from the raw copper, or for the large extra profit to be derived
from special kinds of work which the Company's process enables it
to take at fiom 2s. fid. to 5s. per pound (superseaine haul Va]iy^<«93^
at a much groatec CQ«\t\t V^^ ii^\> ^t]&\> w^ajlia V9«c ^ \«t t«D^K ^sok.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 1, 1892.
£160,000, the iisued capital of the ContpoDy, Owing to the high
(luality of the Companr'a muiufacturei, tuid the demand for tbem
indicated by the largely- increasing number of appUcatione for
quotations and offers of work, it wiU be necessary to increase the
existing plant, to doeble the present plant of 20 tons per week and
make it equal to 40 tons per week.
The profile will then be, on the above basis, for 20-ton
per week plant ... £50,450
Add fordouDle the production 50,450
£100,900
There will be required for this eitra production £20,000 for plant
and £30,000 for working capital ; this will make the total capital
LBSaed £200,000, on which, on the above basis of profit, the return
would be over 50 per cent, per annum. Moreover, there is no
reason for taking 40 tons per week as the limit of production.
For instance, the French Elmore Company's works, which are
nearly completed, are upon a scale of production of 80 bo 100 tons
per week, and the general maoager, M. Secretan, writes that
already he sees that the demand will enable the Company to
double or even treble the plant within a. abort period. From the
above facts it will be seen that in the Elmore invention the
Company poBsesBOS a property not paralleled in the whole range of
industrial investments, and now that the delay in getting the
20-ton per week plant at work— delay incidental to all new dis-
coveries—has been overcome, the extraordinary earning power of
the Company will be appreciated. ^-I am. Gentlemen, yours
respectfully, William EuaoRE, Managing Director.
P.8-— I have not included in the above estimates the cost of the
London and Leeds office expenses, salariea, and Directors' fees,
amounting in all to, say, £o,lKX) per annum, although up to the
[>reBent time theee expenses have only slightly exceeded one-half
Balancb-si
E 30, 1S91.
£ 8. d.
tbatsi
Dr.
Nominal capital—
100,000 shares of £2 each 200,000 0 0
Of which there have been issued
7e,000shares 150,000 0 0
Lees colls not yet due 6,500 0 0
143,600 0 I
Mortgages on land and intereet to June 30,
1891 43,371 16 .
Sundry creditors 4,744 17 :
Royalties received in advance on
copper sheet license 5,000 0 0
Reserve account—
Premiums receivid on new shares
issued and £7. 10s. received on
forfeited shares 2,507 10 0
Profit on 13 acres of land sold,
being amount received after de'
dactmg proportion of cost of land
and expenses, interest on original
purchase- money and cost of
mortgages 6,050 17 0
Profit and loes— 8,5o8 7 0
Balance as per account 703 10 10
£205,878 11 8
Cr. £ a. d. £ B. d.
Purohase of 127 acres of land at
Haigh Park, Leeds, including in-
terest and cosU 67,887 16 8
Less proportion of cost and ex-
penses of 13 acres sold 6,949 3 0
60,933 13 8
Buildings, sidings, and wharf, as
at June 30, 1S9U 8,011 IS 8
Additions during the year ending
June 30, 1891 3,512 16 10
Plant, machinery, etc., as at June
30,1890 11,339 1 1
Additions during the year ending
30th June, 1891 11,110 15 10
22,449 16 11
Patents as at 30tb June, 1800 80,000 0 0
Additions and expenses during the
year ending 30th June, 1891 702 17 6
80,702 17 6
Sundry debtors 1,899 14 5
Ordinary and founders' shares in
Elmore's Wire Manufacturing
Company, Limited, at cost 11,053 9 0
13,853 3 5
Stock in trade— viz.:
Raw material 6,421 4 S
Manufactured goods 803 2 9
Snndrystores 582 13 1
7.807 0 6
Fixtures, furniture, and fittings 947 8 5
Cash at bankers and in hand _ 7,654 15 9
£206,878 11 8
Dr,
) Loss AOCOtTHT FOR TUB Ybab b
[oSOth Jcthk, 1891.
£ s. d.
Advertising and exhibition expenses 168 14 9
Travelling expenses and general chances 251 12 9
Bent, rails, and insurant 349 4 4
Balance of inoome tax 103 12 3
Stationery, printing, and postages 306 10 6
Maintenance of patents, legal and professional
chaiges 358 14 9
Maintenance of plant and repairs 643 9 8
Directors" fees 1.452 19 6
Sahiries 2,317 17 5
Balance curied to balance-sheet 703 10 10
£6,556 6 9
Or. £ s. d. £ B. d.
Balance, 30th June, 1890 77,825 1 4
Lees appropriated as under interim
dividend of lOs. per share (leas tax)
paid April 18, 1890, £34,125; 2nd
di\'idend of 10s. per share (less tax)
poid July 29, 1890, £34,125 ; income
tax on the latter, £876 ; preliminary
expenses, £1,850 ; Directors' percen-
tage of profits to 30th June, 1890,
£3.930. 13a. Id. 74,905 13 I
2,919 8 3
Balance of factory account, including amount re-
ceived from Elmore's Foreign and Colonial Patent
Copper Depositing Company, limited, for labora-
tory and experiment expenses 1,398 17 6
Soles of lioenses 1,581 0 0
Interest and discount ,' 417 14 7
Transfer fees, etc 239 6 5
£6,666 6 9
The second annual ordinary general meeting of Elmore's Patent
Copper Depositing Company, Limited, took ^ace on Wednesday
at the Cannon-street Hotel, Mr. J. Jepson Atlcinson presiding.
The Becretary (Mr. J. Shurmer) having read the notice calUng
the meeting,
The CbAlrmaa said : Gentlemen, there is on old saying, " Good
wine needs no bush," and I think that after the report we have
been able to send you you will not think it necessary for me f>
address you at any great length. You wUl see by the report that
all the preliminary difEcultiee have been entirely overcome, and
that we are now ready to go forward and earn money for yon,
and pay you handsome dividends. When we double, treble,
and even quadruple our present plant, which we shall, in dne
course, have to do, those dividends will be so increased that I
honestly believe you will have a chance of getting retoma
of cent, per cent, upon your investment in the capital of
the Company. You will be glad to hear that our difficulty is not
to take orders, but to know what orders to refuse out of the great
number on offer, Aa you know, there is a French Elmore Company,
formed to work the process in France, and lost week I had the
honour of being invited to see their works. These works are now
in operation, and though designed for an output of 90 tons a week,
already their manager reports that he can sell double their pre-
posed output. From these remarks, and the figures which
Mr. Elmore will give yon, you will see there is not the slightest
3ueetion about our getting a sufficiency of orders, i have uo
ividend to declare, but I can state to you, gentlemen, that we are
to-day actually earning a considerable one — there is £500 profit in
our tanks for this week — and I myself expect that before very long
we aliall be able to send each of you a nice tittle cheque as the
result of what we are earning. I should like to say a tew words
about our investment in land, referred to in the report. Aa you are
aware, we are not a land company, and in the ordinary course
we should only have bought sufficient land for our own immo-
diate reiiuiremonts : but oeing myself an adjacent landowner,
and knowing well its value in the neiehbourhood of the rising town
of Leeds, and finding that we should have to pay something like
£'2,000 an acre for any extension of our works, and then be exposed
later on, if we wished to further increase them, to still larger
demands, I strongly ut^ed the Board to make the purctaaae of the
whole estate at Eaigh Pork. This the Company did not see its
way to do at the time, and Mr. William Elmore very pluckily
stepped in and bought the property, Lateron. when the land had
increased in value, and we saw the bargain that Mr, Elmore bad,
we readily accepted his generous offer to let the Company take
over the purohase at the original price. Since that time, as we
have mentioned, the value oithe land has greatly increased, and I
will read you a letter from a gentleman who is acknowlec^;ed in
Leeds to be the greatest authority on the value of land in that
neighbourhood. He writes aa follows ;
" Aire and Colder Navigation, Leeds, December 26, 1891.
" My dear Atkinson. — You ask me my views in
Uaigh Park Estate, lately belonging to Lord Stoi
acquired by a company with which I believe you i
It is a valuable property, and in the near future must Oecome
exceedingly so, aa any considerable extension in the manufacturing
industries of Leeds must necessarily be in that direction, for there
is no land so suitable or now available. I do not know whether
^ou are aware of the fact that the proposed South Leeds Juoction
1 regard to the
!ted.
Railway of the coming s
9 through the aetata on fta
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 1, 1892.
23
WMtern idde. Tbis, U pMwd by P&rUamBDt, will enhance the
valttB of the eatate, Blthou^h it ia already eiceptianally aituated by
tuving Uie Aire and Caldsr Navigation, with its eaa; oonnection,
ott one iide, and a junction with the Midland Railway on the south
" Altogether, 1 think the Company have done well to acquire
the eatata, and aapocially if they can afford to wait a while before
reaMng.—Youra sincerely, W. H. Bartholomew."
In addition to thia and the other advant^gea aet out in the
report, the Midland Railway Company have not only agreed to
spend a conaiderable aum in improving the means of communica-
tion with the aatate, but have aha arranged, later on, to build a
paBsenger station contiguous to our nrapeity. In juatioe to Mr.
£lmore I must say that he has worked like a Trojan, and, even if
he has been alow in getting our Company to its present proaperona
position, he has nevertheleaa given one of the greateat possible
|iroofs of bia zeal for the Company, and bia interest therein, by
giving up bia purchase preciaeiy on the same Cerma aa he had
pTocared it If be had Oeen a stranger, there would have been
nothing wrong in bis asking £25,000 proUt on the price, and Chen
we should have had a bargain ; in fact, if at the end of a year or
two the Company do not find that they have mode a splendid
bar(>ain, I shail be very glad to take it off their hands. 1 think,
therefore, that our thanks are very much due to Mr.
Elmore for the excellent position he has put oa into in
that respect, and I have no doubt that, before we part,
you will favour him with a vote of thanka instead of a
cheque for the profit he might otherwise have made. Three
meinbeis of the Board retire. Sir John Morris is not allowed by
bia physician to offer himself for re-election, but possibly he may
be able to join us again later on. With regard to the other two
memberB, Mr. Carson and myself. I may say that Mr. Carsoii, from
his knowledge aa a director of the Cape Copper Company, of which
confidence in the great value of thia invention, and have liad ever
aince it was only an idea in the mind of the inventor. I bold over
8,000 shares in the Company, and have upwards of £40,000 in the
various Elmore companies, and have never sold a single ahare,
even when they ware at £8 each, which figure I believe they will
•oon be at again. On the contrary, 1 have neen steadily increasing
my holdinff, In fact, I may say the Directors of your Company
are by far the largest holders in the Companv, holding. I believe,
nearly a third of the issued capital The Chairman then read a
report from Mr. Elmore, confirmatory of his statements, to the
following eSect :
" I beg to confirm my report of November 30 last, and the
gratifying results I was then able to foreshadow, and to state that
onr experience since more than bears out my figures. Since my
previous report of June 1, lS9t, the new copper mandrel has
proved to be all that I then claimed for it, and it even exceeds
my expectationa, simplifying the process immensely. 1 send you
the two tubM recently tested by an independent expert, one
made by our eleotro-bumiehing process and the other one a
brazed tube of the best ordinary make. The result of the trial
C. already know of — viz., that the Elmore tube turned out to
not only more than three times as strong aa the beat brazed
lube, but of such high uniform quality that, although the
testing machine had to be specially niade, the machinery actually
Kve way two or three times in the course of the teste, and had to
strengthened to meet the great resisting power of the Elmore
tube- From this it will be seen that the Company will practi-
cally have the monopoly of steam-pipes of Ur^e diameter, and
that marine engineers will at once abandon the use of brazed
copper pipes, which have given them so much trouble of late by
borating under the high steam pressures used in the triple and
quadruple expansion engines, some 60 or 60 lives having been
loat during the present year from thia cause ; and I may state
that we have already received some important communications
and assurances to tliis end. The difference in the two kinds of
tubes cannot be better expressed than in the words of the eminent
engineer who made the test, aa follows : ' I beg to inform
you that I have to-day witnessed the bursting of two experi-
mental copper pipes, one made by your electro-burniahing
proceaa, the other an ordinary brased tube, made by a first-
class coppersmitli in Leeds. The first pipe ia 5ft. 6in. long,
9 Jin. in diameter inside, and iia. thick. The pressure was
applied to the inside of this pipe by means of a three-throw
hydraulic pump driven from the shoft in the shop. Up to a
prcsaure of l,0OOIb. per square inch the pipe showed no signs of
distress. At a pressure of 1,1761b. to the square inch the pipe
commenced to expand in the middle uniform^, until thia part of
it became |in. larger in diameter than tlie other part, and water
commenced to pasa from four separate points almost opposite to
each other, showing that the metal was stretching uniformly, and
that the pipe was almosc^ on the point of bursting The pressure
was again mcreaiied until 1,4561b. to the square inch was reached,
when the pipe stretched at this part from 9jin, outside diameter
to II in., ana at this pressure it burst, opening out in the centre of
the pipe for a distance of about lOin., the fracture being l^in. wide.
The pipe was afterwards measured, and it was found that although
at the moment of fracture ita diameter was llin., and the metal tiad
stretched uniformly to that extent, stilt when the preaaure was
released the pipe returned to a diameter of login. Theneit pipe —
that ia, the braeed one— was 9in. diameter, also 6ft. Gio. in length
and iin. thick. At a pressure of 1201b. to the square inch, one end
of the |Hpe swelled to the extent of ^in. in diameter for a distance
of about 12in, from the flange, and aa the pressure was increased
to 300U>. the oppoeile ends swelled in like manner, which clearly
proves that in heating the copper to flange it at each end its ulti-
mate strength had been greatly reduced. The pressure was again
increased to 44Blh. to the square inch, when the pipe burst at one
end, atwut I2in from the flange, through the brazed joint, thus
demonstrating tliot the electro-burnished pipe, although }in.
larger in diameter than the brazed pipe, was 31 times stronger,
and further demonatratea that owing to the great ductile proper-
ties possessed by the electro-bumiahed copper, which admits of its
being flanged without being heated, enables pipes of this descrip-
tion to be constructed of a uniform strength throughouL'
It is important to notice tliat the Elmore tube waa flanged (in
the ordinary way by an ordinary workman] without annealing,
thua preaerving to the metal its whole original strength, and
avoiding all poaaible chance of deterioration of the metal by
overheating owing to want of skill or carelesancsa on the part
of the workmen. As showing the rapidity of the growth of our
trade, and the favour in which our goods are held Oy those who
have tried them, I would state that we have already, during the
last two months, added no less than 130 customers to our list, com-
prising some of the best firms in the country. We have executed
342 orders, and have to-day more ordersofferod than wecan possibly
execute. Further, one largo buyer has given 16 repeat orders ;
one has repeated orders 14 times ; two have repeated orders 12
times each ; three have repeated orders 11 times each i two have
repeated ortJers nine times each ; five have repeated orders seven
timea each ; three have repeated ordera five times each ; seven
have repeated orders four timea each ; 10 have repeated orders
three timea each, and on aggregate of 224 repeat ordera have
been received from a number of our customers, representing
about 40 per cent, of the total names upon our books. We
have on hand orders and offers of orders at pricee above
those that I estimated in my lost report, which will far more
than fill our capacity for a long time to come. In addition, since
the 20'ton plant was started we have received specifications and
sent out quotations In reply to enquiries for 1,581,6691b. , or over
TOO tons, of copper tulMs for various purposes, besidea a large
amount of capper to be deposited upon rams and other eipenaive
articles, from which to draw our orders and keep our tanks con-
stantly employed. I further have pleasure to omcially Inform you
that another stage in the realisation of the promiaea that I have
made has been reached, which, with the exception of the delay in
actual completion, have been more than borne out in every case.
This important step ia the satisfactory production of a copper
cartridge case, the value of which may be gathered from the
fact that it means the successful application of the Elmore
process to pans for brevers and distillers, and other articles not
of tubular form, but having a bottom. From the samples I send
it will be seen that not only ia the copper cylinder closed at one
end. but the thickness of the copper can be regulated at will, to
be thick at one part and thin at another, as desired, whilst the
Elmore
afar
which I made out on November 30 last, no allowance whateoever
was made for such special articles, the extra profit upon which will
all be in addition to what was there set out ; and the fact that I am
at present negotiating for making arrangements for the granting
of a license for the manufacture of a minimum of 10 tona of these
cases per week, on a royalty that will be most remunerative to
this Company, will show that I have erred on the safe side ii
consider it unnecessary to refer to the fact that our process is
equally applicable to the deposition of other metals, and the
manufacture of heavy ordnance, of a quality hitherto unknown,
and I think you will find, as in the past, that every statement
ever mode by mo as to the various appUcationa of the proceas will
be as fully borne out as those regarding the turn-out of copper
tubes and such-like articles ; this I have oeen able to prove to you
"" then moi'ed the adoption of the report and
Dnded the resolution, which «
« agreed t(
Hr. Pilotier said be had given the Company an cvder for two
i-pipes for marine purposes to stand 1651b., but they were
^ of tr
stand 1851b., but they
laminated throughout. He would like to know the rt
also how the cost would compare with that Qf the ordinary pipes
for marine purposes.
Bir. Umore said that at the commencement they unfortunately
started with a defective engine, which, although constructed by
one of the best engineering firms in the world, had broken down
cootinnally. The breaking down of the engine caused the opera-
tions to oease in the tanks, the proceaa being essentially a oon-
tiouous one. That was the cause of the lamination, and when he
became the managing director at the works he found that some of
the tubes had been sent out which were made during that early
time, amounting to six in all. If Mr. Pilcher would favour the
Company with another order ho believed they wonld be able to
satisfy him. An official test was about to he made in conformity
with the Board of Trade specifications, which he believed would be
in every way aatiafoctory.
Kt. Plloliar : Will you guarantee them, and put in the ordinary
tubes if youra are a failure !
Xr. Xlmore : Ves ; with pleasure.
Hr. Plleber : Then I will undertake to give you an order.
Mr. Bawaen : I will send you a cheque for £500 if the tube
proves in any way defective.
Messrs. Atkinson and Carson were re-elected directors, and
Messrs. Prioe, Waterhouse, and Co. were re-appointed auditors.
24
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 1, 1892.
Dr. Cantrell next moved a vote of thanks to Mr. Elmore and
the Company's staff.
Kr. Oiuunlolno seconded the resolution, which was agreed to.
The meeting closed with a vote of thanks to the Chairman and
Directors.
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
CallfomlA Gas, Water, and Kleetrlo Lighting ComiMuiy
Syndteate, Limited. — This Company has been registered with a
capital of £2,000, in £1 shares, to purchase or otherwise acquire,
work, manage, and turn to account gas works, electric light
plants and water works in the U.S.A., Canada, or the British
Colonies. Roistered office, 20, Bucklersbury, E.C.
Chloride Xleetrloal Storage Syndieato, Limited. —Formed,
with a capital of £262,500^ to acquire certain patents and
propertv, to carrv on business as ironmasters, copper smelters,
steelmakers, ironiounders, engineers, boilermakers, metallurgists,
electricians, electrical contractors, electrical and mechanical
engineers, and suppliers of electricity, and to carry on the
business of an electric Uehting company. The subscribers are :
Messrs. J. E. Yeates, 9, ^lent-crescent. West Hampstead ; W. J.
Tornev, 24, Granard-road, Wandsworth Common ; S. S. P. Cooke.
53, Chadwick-road, Peckham ; R. J. Rumball, 46. Ruvigny-
fardens, Putn^ ; F. B. Liley, 58, Sandmere-road, Clapham ; §. S.
ludlow, 34, Werter-road, Putney ; and £. J. Newball, 57,
Cowley-road, North Brixton.
Liverpool Metal and Hardware Company, Llmlt,ed. — Regis-
tered by J. and R. Gole, 4, Lime-street, E.C., with a capitiU of
£12,000 in £10 shares. Object : to acquire the undertaking of
P. C. Mclntyre and Co., Limited (of Hanover-street, Liverpool),
in accordance with an aeieemont made between J. Huntington of
the one part and this Company of the other part, and generally
to carry on business as eeneraJ metal and hardware merchants,
mechanioal and electrical engineers, etc., in all their respective
branches. There shall not be less than three nor more than eight
Directors. The first are J. Baker, J. Huntington, C. Coward, W.
Heaton, J. G. Russell, P. B. Coward, and J. W. Baker. Qualifi-
cation, £500. Remuneration, £150, divisible.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1891.
21816.
21833.
Dkcembek 14.
Improrements tn Ineaadeeoent lamps. Carl Schubel,
45, Lawford-road, Kentish Town, London.
Improved method of reduotng the thermlo loss by
radiation from the sides of thermo-dynamlo motors.
Benjamin Howarth Thwaite, 37, Victoria-street, Liverpool.
21849. Improvements in armatures for dynamo- eleotrie
maobines. Buchanan Stewart Paterson and John Broken-
shire Fumeaux, 46, Lincoln*s-inn-fields, London.
21854. Improvements in or relating to the iasnlation of
eleotrioal eonduotors. Alfred Julius Boult, 323, High
Holbom, London. (Emile Louis Montgolfier and Charles
Valery Montgolfier, France.)
December 15.
21870. Improvements in voltaio oells or batteries. Henry
Harris Lake, 45, Southampton-buildings, London. (Edward
A. Clark, United States.) (Complete specification.)
21923. An improved eleotrioal apparatus for driving olook-
work. Frederick Herbert Berry, 186, Fleet-street,
London.
21941. Improvements in eleotrio motor mechanism for vehioles.
William Gumbley, 53, Chancery-lane, London.
21961. Improvements in variable resistanoe devices for relays,
telephones, and the like. Henry Harris Lake, 45,
Southampton-buildings, London. (Charles Cuttriss, United
States.) (Complete specification.)
21963. Improvements in converter systems for electric
railways. Mark Wesley Dewey, 45, Southampton -
buildings, London. ((Complete specification.)
December 16.
21987. Improvements in suspending telegraph and telephone
wires and attachments on open-air supports of same
and telephonio switchboards. George Rodenhurst Stokes,
67, Piccadilly, Hanley, Stafibrd.
22025. Improvements • in fittings for oleotric lights, John
Smallwood, 33, Southampton-buildings, London.
22027* Improvements in gallery holders or supports for the
globes or shades for electric lights and gas lamps, also
applicable to holders for inoandescent lamps. Victor
Silberberg, 226, High Holbom, London.
22030. Improvements in the electrolytio treatment of copper
and silver ores. Carl Hoepfner, 45, Southampton-
buildings, London.
22037. Improvements in printing telegraph receiving instrn-
ments. Henry Harris Lake, 45, Southampton -buildings,
London. (John Edward Wright, United States). (Com-
plete specification.)
December 17.
22126. An improvement in secondary batteries. Alfred Ernest
Porter, 48, Richmond-road, Paddington, London.
22109. Improvements in systems of eleetrieal distrtbatlon
espeoially adapted fbr supplying electric motors.
Benjamin Joseph Barnard Mills, 23, Southampton-
buildings, London. (Harry Ward Leonard, United States.)
22120. Improvements in telegraph repeaters. Albert Carlos
Booth and William Percy Ward, 106, Victoria-chambers,
Chancery-lane, London.
22122. An improved eleotrio switch. Maurice Hoopes, 106,
Victoria-chambers, Chancery-lane, London.
December 18.
22145. Improved Jar or cell for galvanio batteries. William
Phillips Thompson, 6, Lord-street, Liverpool. (Otto
Hirsch, Germany.)
22178. Improvementa in eleotrio accnmalators or secondary
battertes. Frederic Morin, 45, Southampton-buildings,
London.
22181. Improvements in packet* or pads for electric cells.
Lewis Hopkins Rogers, 18, Buckingham-street, Strand,
London. (Complete specification.)
22184. Improvementa in or relating to telephones and micro-
phones. Adolf Rettig, 18, Buckingham-street, Strand,
London.
December 19.
22255. Improvementa in eleotrio telephone transmitters. Alan
Archibald Campbell Swinton, 66, Victoria-street, West-
minster, London.
22265. Improvementa relating to simnltaneons telephony and
telegraphy. Johnston Stephen and Charles Davis, 45,
Southampton -buildings, Lonaon.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED
1890.
19740. Colnmn printing telegraph reeeivers. Higgins. Ud.
1891.
184. Dynamo maohinea Crompton 8d.
185. Dynamo machines. Crompton. 8d.
284. Telephone transmitter. Mayer. 6d.
899. Kleetrlo oells. Eagar and Milburn. 4d.
1176. Dynamo-eleotric machines, ete. Newton and Hawkins. 8d.
1318. XleotHc distHbnUon. Cutler, lid.
.3664. Kleotrioal switehes. Binswanger. 8d.
17399. Dynamo-eleotrio machines. Gilliland. 8d.
17733. Xleotrio drilling, ete. , machines. Linders. 6d.
18522. Welding metals electrioaUy. Thompson (Coffin). 6d.
BUSINESS NOTES.
Fog Signala — We understand that a syndicate is being formed
for £25,000 to purchase half of the patents of the fog-signal system
we described last year, and negotiations are proceeding.
Commercial Cable Company. — The numbers are published of
1,200 mortgage debentures of £100 each of the Commercial Cable
Company, which have been drawn for payment at par on January
15 next.
City and South I«ondon Railway. — The receipts for the week
ending December 27, 1891, were £871, as against £785 for the
corresponding week in 1890, showing an increase of £86. The
aggregate receipts for half year to date were £19,221.
*' Kleotrioal Plant."— Mr. E. R. Dolby retires from .the editor-
ship of the monthly journal Electrical Plant, after editin|^ the
spedial " central station " number and the ordinary January issue.
1892. and will devote his entire attention to his consulting practice
at 8, Princes-street, Westminster. The proprietors of ElectricaX
Plant have turned the business into a limited company, and owing
to increase in size, the work will now require the whole time and
attention of an editor. Mr. H. Cuthbert Hall, who has acted as
assistant for the special number, will undertake the work, the
offices of the journal being at 52, Queen Victoria-street, E.C.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARii: UST.
Name
Paid.
Brush Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, Gutta Percha k Telegraph Co
House-to- House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
Londou Electric Supply »
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Electric Gonstructiou
Westminster Electric
Liverpool Electric Supply i
10
5
5
5
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5
3
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Btqtpletneni to the "Electbicai. Enginbeb," January 1, 1892.
SnpphmtM to the " EuotBuuL BirGunEB," /oMuory ;, ISM.
nlUIUUI: WEBHEK, L
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I
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8, 1892.
25
NOTES.
XflUnKton. — We underetand that Colonel Gouraud is
organieing a company, with a Urge capital, for furnishing
the eleclric light to the Islington diatrict.
South Ameriean Cables- — The Western and Brazilian
Telegraph Company, Limited, notify that direct com-
munication by their cables with Monte Video and Buenos
Ayres is now restored.
Patent OlBoe Ubrair- — It is hoped that a technical
library wJU be established on the ground floor of the new
Patent Office extensions. The alteration, if carried out,
will be greatly appreciated.
Eleotrio Fireworks at Chicago. —The Committee
on Ceremonies has appropriated SS.OOOdoU. for electric
(ireworka at the time of the dedication of the exposition
buildings in October, 1892.
Hlalnff Plant.— At the meeting of the Chesterfield
and Midland Counties' Institution of Engineers on Saturday,
Mr. M. Deacon will read a paper entitled " Notes on a
Small Electric Pumping Plant."
ratal Aoddent in Italy.— -A faUl electric lighting
accident occurred on Saturday night at the Theatre Mati-
gano at Palermo. One of the men inadvertently took hold
of both connecting wires, and fell dead.
Coireotion of Address. — Messrs. Vaugban and
Brown inform us that their address is IG, Kirby-etreet,
E.C., and not Purdey street, Hatton- garden, as given in
the list of exhibitors at the Crystal Palace.
Presidential Address — The lirst meeting of the
lastitution of Electrical Engineers for the coming year will
be held on the Hth inst, when the president, Frot. W. E.
Ayrton, will deliver his inaugural addreaa.
Shrewsbury. — Mr. Richard Hanway has written a
letter to the Shrmahury Chronkh giving a considerable
amount of useful information to intending usots of this
illuminant, in a clear and straightforward style. The
int«reEt in the neighbourhood on this subject seems to be
keen.
Horse Wires. — One of the exhibits that the Baltimore
and Ohio road expects to show in the Electricity Building
is a model of tbe first telegraph wire strung along that
line by Morse. The line was nine miles long and extended
from Baltimore to Relay Station. The line was laid in a
lead pipe.
Salford. — At the Salford Town Council on Wednesday,
in aoEwer to a question by Alderman Dickins, the deputy-
chairman of tbe Gas Committee (Mr. Philips) said that a
sub-committee had been apjminted to consider the subject
of electric lighting in the borough, and their report would
be submitted in due time to the Council.
French Jonmul.^ L'liuiuslrU Eltctrvpit, the new
French technical journal, is to be issued with tbe beginning
of the year. The editor, as we have already stated, is M.
E. Iloipitalier, who we were glad to welcome recently on a
visit to England with reference to tbe recent progress in
electric undei^ound railways and other matters.
Appointment. — Mr. Alfred Hay has been appointed
demonstrator of electrical engineering at the University
Collie, Nottingham. Mr. Hay served his apprenticeship
at the Faraday Electrical Works, Govan, and studied elec-
trical engineering at the Glasgow Technical College, under
Prof. Jamieson, thereafter taking the Edinburgh University
B.Sc. degree.
Eleotrio Beating^. — The M^loja Kursaal on the
e is to be heated electrical!)' during tbe winter bjr
power derived frcm tbe Mera river in Aaeima. There ta
no doubt that considerable uu will be made of electric
heaters in those cases where natural power is abundant, and
it is probable that this department of electrical engineering
will become exceedingly important in sach cases.
Overhead TroUoys. — The Common Couneil of
Brooklyn, U.S., has given permission to the tramway
companies to change their motive power to the electric
overhead trolley system. This decision, which is expected
to be at once confirmed by the State Baiiroad Commis-
sioners, will mean the expenditure of £2,400,000 during
the next two years on the Brooklyn tramways.
Slectile Fire Alarm. — A development of the electric
fire-alarm sysiam has been put into practice at Boston,
U.S.A., by tbe application of the eall system to a cab-
driver's stand. On an alarm being given, the cabman
wakes, the horse is hameaaed, and word is given of the
address of the owoer of tbe threatened premises, who when
fetched is usually able to afford helpful information.
Chicago Xxhlbltlsn. — From an advertisement in
another column it will be seen that applications for space
in tbe British section may now be addressed to the secre-
bary of the Royal Commission for the Chicago Exhibition,
at tbe offices of the Society of Arts, John-street, Adelphi,
W.C., where prospectuses and forms of application can be
obtained. The date previous to which applications must
be received is February 29 next.
St. Elmo's Fire. — A correspondent of tbe Olasgoto
Htrald state that oti the 28th ult., when he and anothw
gentleman were walking in a driving shower of hail, tbe
tips of their umbrellas had a glow of fire similar to that
from a frictional machine. Was it, he enquires, due to tJie
state of the atmosphere, tbe charge given by the hailstonee,
or the friction of these latter on the silk T It is, at least,
an interesting occurrence to record.
Electric Condnits.^ — The Johnstone patents for the
protection and preservation of electric wires underground,
says the Ftwmciid Nftos, have been acquired by an English
syndicate, and will be brought before the public shortly.
Mr. Johnstone hails from Philadelphia, and at a Clover
Club dinner was once christened " Lightning," in contra-
distinction to Mr. Johnstone, the lawyer, whose deep baai
voice acquired for him tbe sobriquet of " Thunder."
SleotrMty and Ufe.— Prof. M'Kendrick, F.R^., of
the University of Glasgow, has been giving an exceedingly
interesting set of Christmas lectures at the Royal Institu-
tion upon "Life and Motion," dealing principally upon
tbe part played by electricity upon muscular activity. Prof.
M'Kendrick's lectures cannot fail to bring home to many
minds interested in physiology and biology the great share
that electrical action has in the still unsettled problems of
life, muscle, and nervous energy.
Works mi the Telephone. — Messrs. Whittaker and
Co. have made arrangements with tbe editor of
El Telegrafista Espand for the translation into Spanish of
Hr. Preece's work ui»on "The Telephone." The book
already has been translated into both French and German.
Tbe same firm will publish shortly, in a cheap form, Mr.
A. R. Bennett's pa[ierB on tbe *' Telephoning of Great
Cities " and tbe " Electrical Parcel Exchange System,"
which attracted considerable attention at hut year's British
Association meeting.
Marino Lake at Southend. — In order that visitors
to Soutbend may be able to indulge in boating and other
amusements on the water at all hours of the day without
having to go a distance of a mile or more along the pier, a
company is asking for incorporation with the object of
constructing, m wnivrnt^Ai^ VvC& >Je* \**«a\ "^RaA^ *.
26
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8, 1892
marine lake, forty acres in extent, on which miniature
steamboats, yachts, and pleasure boats would be let on
hire. Here is a chance ior the General Electric Traction
Company and their launches.
Preston. — ^The staff of the National Electric Supply
Company, Limited, Preston, and a few friends, held their
first annual supper on New Year's eve, to celebrate one
year's work of the electric lighting of Preston. The chair
was taken by F. F. Bennett, Esq., M.I.E.E., supported by
the committee — viz., S. F. Emerson, T. Cross, S. Powell,
and C. Gillin. Toasts were proposed to the " Queen," the
" Directors," the ** Managers," and the " Guests '' ; after
which music and singing were indulged in to an early
hour, and altogether a very enjoyable time was spent.
Sleotrio Ploaghinfir. — Mr. A. A. Denton, of the
United States Department of Agriculture, is seriously
advocating the use of electric motors instead of horses in
the great plains of the West for ploughing, sowing, reaping,
harrowing, and thrashing. The problem involves the back-
ward and forward movement of a machine in a straight
line of half a mile, passing to and fro until the field is
covered. " We shall wonder," says Mr. Denton, " a few
years hen^how man produced food by means of the whip.
There iSM^nt demand in agriculture for electrical engi-
neenng.
ShlpliffhtlBfiT at Devonport. — Arrangements have
just been completed at Devon port for lighting the ships
under construction by electricity. The system has been in
use for some years at Portsmouth, but has never pre-
viously been introduced at Devonport, whilst at Chatham
it was tried and abandoned, owing, it is stated, to the
expense. On board the " Edgar," at Devonport, a portable
dynamo, engine, and boiler has been placed, which is
capable of lighting 360 lamps. The cost of such lighting
is estimated at £2 a day. Three vessels on the building
slips have also been similarly illuminated, with good
results.
An Bleotrlo Ziamp Tbiefi — A thief who has for a
long time, in all probability, been stealing incandescent
electric lamps at the Paris theatres, has just been arrested
by a clever device of the management of the Porte St.
Martin. As it was found that a great many lamps had
disappeared at the house the electrical engineer so arranged
the fittings that immediately a lamp was removed the
electiic current sounded an alarm. The man was thus
caught as he was making away with a lamp in his pocket,
and, as he refuses his name and address to the police, it
is believed that he has a large store somewhere of the stolen
articles.
St. Pajioras Uffhtinir- — The St. Pancras Vestry have
deposited a Bill, which will be introduced into Parliament
next session, under which powers are sought to raise
£60,000 for the electric lighting of the whole of the
parish, in addition to any sum that may be required for
paying the costs of obtaining this Act. The period for the
redemption of the loan is fixed at 42 years. The Vestry
also seek power by this Bill to appropriate for electric
lighting purposes the pneumatic tubes laid by the
Pneumatic Despatch Company, but now abandoned, in
Tottenham Court-road, Euston-road, Hampstead-road, and
Drummond-street.
Idmeriok. — Indications seem to show that electric
lighting is progressing in Ireland, if not more rapidly than
in England, yet with rapid strides. Amongst others, the
city of Limerick has now decided to apply at once for a
provisional order, the speciU meeting of the Corporation
adopting a resolution to that effect proposed by Mr. BernaL
Mr. Conolly, the law adviser to the Corporation, stated
^0^ iibe cotit, Fould be about £{{00, Mr. Clune said that
the cost of gas was greater in Limerick than in any other
town of its size, whereat Mr. Conolly stated that when the
debt of £4,000 odd was paid, which was being done, the
price would be put down.
PontypooL — A company having for its object the
lighting of the town of Pontypool by electricity is being
formed, and an influential meeting of tradesmen and others
interested will be held at once. As the Local Board cannot
obtain the necessary powers for nearly two years, the
company will at first be a private one, to be eventually
transferred to the Board at the original cost, and the profits
made will then be spent on improvements in the town.
The directors, it is stated by the Scndh, Wales Daily News,
are in a position to guarantee a dividend of not less than
10 per cent., the project having been most warmly received,
and the promises of support already given more than
sufficient to ensure this desirable result.
Overhead Wires at Chelmsford. — ^The Fire Brigade
Committee reported to the Chelmsford Town Council at
their last meeting with reference to the communication
from Messrs. Crompton and Co. as to the cutting of the
electric light wires in case of an outbreak of fire in
proximity thereto. A representative of Messrs. Crompton
and Co., who attended the meeting of the committee, stated
that the lighting of the town was divided into four sections,
and that in case of fire the light could, if necessary, be cut
off in one section only. The committee recommended that
Messrs. Crompton and Co. be asked to take such steps as
they thought necessary to prevent any danger from the
wires in case of fire. The report was adopted.
Teignmonth. — The Teignmouth Local Board finding
that the increasing demand for gas is likely to necessitate
extensive alterations at their works, are considering the
desirability of introducing electric light, and have asked
Mr. H. D. Massingham, the well-known electrical engineer,
who has bad considerable experience of public lighting
by electricity, for an estimate of the cost of an installa-
tion. The matter was considered at a special meeting on
Saturday, Rev. Anson Cartwright presiding, when the
Board had a consultation with Mr. Massingham. The esti-
mate was discussed at length, but no definite details of the
scheme can yet be given. It is thought fairly certain,
however, that electric lighting will be adopted.
Paris Ezhibitioii. — A detailed analysis of the accounts
of the great Paris Exhibition has been published, from
which it appears there is a balance of £400,000 to the
good ; £90,000 was received for concessions for caf6s and
restaurants, and £2,000,000 were received for admissions,
or £280,000 more than expected. On the other hand, the
expenditure, which had been estimated at £1,860,000, was
only £1,600,000. In other words, while the 1889 exhibi
tion left a profit of £400,000, that of 1867 gave one of
only £112,000, and that of 1878, organised at the cost of
the State, left a deficit of £1,268,000. It should be pointed
out, however, that in 1878 there was no subsidy from the
State, whisreasin 1889 the State contributed £680,000, and
in 1867 £240,000.
Portrait of Benjamin Franklin. — Mr. David
Murray, 169, West Gleorge-street, Glasgow, writing to the
Glasgow Herald, asks if anyone can tell him of the where-
abouts of a reph'^ « of the celebrated portrait of Benjamin
Franklin, painted by the French artist Chamberlin, which
is said to be in Scotland. The Hon. Bobert C. Winthrop,
of Boston, late pr» ^dut of the Massachusetts Historical
Society, says (Massachusetts Historical Society Proceedings,
XV., pp. 160-161) that it is in the possession of a member of
the William Penn family in Scotland. Who this is, or
where the portrait is, he has not been able to ascertain.
T)ie information is sought for the memorial volun^e on tl|e
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8, 1892.
27
centennial of Greorge Washington's inauguration, now being
completed in New York.
Kendal. — ^The Town Council of Kendal are exercised
upon the question of overhead wires. Councillor Har-
greaves, at the last meeting, said he understood that certain
parties were supplying customers with electric light, and he
wanted to know the rights of the case. The town clerk
said that if anyone wished to establish themselves under the
Electric Lighting Acts they would have to get the permission
of the Board. Later, the application of Mr. Gilkea for
permission to erect poles leading from the Canal Iron
Works to his house came before the Council. It was
mentioned that permission had been asked only after the
posts were erected, and to this objection was taken.
Councillor Jeffreys stated that there was not the least
danger from Mr. Giikes's wire, and the matter was passed.
Bfanohester. — It will be remembered that the proposal
of the engineers at Manchester, with reference to electric
lighting, was that the electric plant should be established
on the same site and in the same engine-house as the
hydraulic power plant. The Gas Committee, at their last
meeting, arrived at a decision electrical engineers will
approve, that having regard to future developments and the
probabilities of extension of both electric light and hydraulic
power, the site at Dickinson-street be allotted entirely to
the electric central station, and that in Gloucester-street to
hydraulic power. The tenders for boilers and engines have
already been advertised for, and with this practical and
sensible attitude, we doubt not that Manchester will
achieve a successful result from both public and electrical
points of view.
IdTerpool Overhead Railway. — Among the Bills
which have been deposited in Parliament for the coming
session is one which proposes to carry out a line of over-
head railway similar to that adopted in New York. In
previous years Parliament has authorised such a line in
connection with the Mersey Dock at Liverpool, which is
now in course of construction by the Liverpool Overhead
Railway Company, and application is now to be made to
extend the time for the execution of the works already
authorised, and, in addition, to extend the line both north-
wards and southwards. The company is to be empowered
to work the railways either by electricity or steam, and
there is also a provision authorising the Corporation of
Liverpool to contribute to the capital of the company for
the purpose of carrying out the scheme.
Bombay Docks. — The electric light has now been
installed at the Prince's and Victoria Docks, Bombay. Three
lights are run up at an average height of about 70ft. ; one
light for each dock, and a central one between both, erected
on a gigantic overtopping mast. It is constructed of iron
as far as the crosstree and of timber upwards. The engine-
house is not yet finished, but the erection of the lights was
considered of so much importance that the light was
started before the completion of the premises. The success
of the installation is due in a large measure to the inde-
fatigable exertions of Mr. A. M. Taylor, engineer to Messrs.
Siemens Brothers, of London, who have supplied the plant.
Preliminary experiments had been opj^ducted to the satis-
faction of the Dock Committee under .|.he immediate super-
vision of Mr. Taylor before the final installation was
commenced. *.,,. ^^
Ylnsbnry Spooial Leotnres. — On January 20, 1892,
Mr. A. Reckenzaun begins a course of six lectures on
*' Electric Locomotion," dealing with electric tramways and
railways. These will be given on Wednesdays at half-past
•even. Through the spring, also on Wednesdays, Mr.
Booaseaa's practical classes will be held in the new electro-
phting laboratory, in connection with which Prof. Thompson
will give three special lectures on dates to be announced.
On February 9 and succeeding Tuesdays, Mr.W. C. Clinton
will give a short course on vector methods of calculation
in relation to electrical problems, being an introduction to
the writings of Mr. Oliver Heaviside; Prof. Perry is
continuing his course on the application of the differential
and integral calculus, and will conclude by an exposition of
Fourier's theorem in relation to alternate currents and the
use of the electro-dynamometer in harmonic analysis. Prof.
Silvanus Thom|>son continues his ordinary course of
Monday lectures, the topics until Easter being transformers,
alternate-current motors and the design of continuous-
current dynamos.
City Liffhtinfir. — The abominable Christmas weather
has led business men in the City to see the advantages
likely to accrue to users of the electric light. " It can but
be admitted,'' says the City Press, " that while the lighting
of the streets is vastly improved, the illumination of
private establishments, such as shops, offices, and ware-
houses, by the electric light will contribute vastly to a
general improvement. The wholesale miseries from which
the citizens suffered during Christmas week — to say nothing
of the damage to property, and increased expense, by
reason of the filthy and suffocating fog which enshrouded
everything — must have convinced all that the present means
of combating the fog-fiend are utterly inadequate, while at
the same time the use of gas does not tend to improve
matters. It is probable that the contracts held by the City
of London Electric Lighting Company may not be actually
completed by February, although an honest attempt is
being made to do so ; but in the event of the work being
unfinished a small extension of time would facilitate
matters." We are glad to see such a helpful attitude.
^Telephonio Facilities. — The National Telephone
Company will introduce a Bill into Parliament next
session by which they seek to obtain additional facilities
for conducting the business of telephonic communication.
The Bill, subject to certain provisions as to the consent of
road authorities and the repair and reinstatement of roads,
gives the company power to place and maintain telephone
wires under any public road and to alter or remove the
same; to place and maintain a telephone wire over any
public road or over any land or any estuary or branch of the
sea, and to attach a telephone wire to any land, and to
maintain posts on any land, and alter or remove the same,
giving compensation to all bodies and persons who sustain
damage by reason of their action. In the case of attaching
wires to private property, it is provided that where the
owner and occupier are not the same person, the consent of
the occupier shall bo sufficient during the term of his occu-
pation, but no longer. The New Telephone Company,
Limited, have also introduced a Bill for the purpose of
reincorporating the company and defining its capital,
objects, and powers.
Deatli. — Mr. Frederick B. Leyland, president of the
National Telephone Company, died suddenly on Monday
night in a train on the underground railway between the
Mansion House and Blackfriars Stations. Soon after
leaving the former station he was seized with a fainting
fit, and Colonel E. Jackson, who was riding with him,
called the guard's attention to him at Blackfriars Station.
He was at once carried into the waiting-room. Dr. Green
was quickly on the scene, but upon examination Mr.
Leyland was found to be dead. Mr. Leylaad was formerly
connected with the steamshipping house of Messrs. Bibby,
Son, and Co. Mr. Leyland, in 1873, established the line
of steamships connected with his name, which now com-
prises 23 vessels. He lived for the greater part of the time
at his London residence, 49, Prince's-gate, his Liver^ol
^2S
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8, i89^
residence being Woolton HalL He was an accomplished
linguist, a connoisseur in fine arts, and possessed a collec-
tion of fine paintings. He was an expert in shipping
matters, and besides holding the position of president
of the National Telephone Company, was one of the
directors of the £dison-Swan Company. His death was
very sudden, heart disease being thoufi;ht the cause
of death. His London residence was a most hand-
some mansion, his dream being to live the life
of an old Venetian merchant in London. The walls
are adorned with paintings by Millais, Bossetti, Bume-
Jones, Watts, and others of the best English artists, besides
examples of Bellini, Botticelli, and Raphael. He was 61
years of age and leaves a son and two daughters, one of
the latter being married to Mr. Val Prinsep, R.A.
Gas ▼. Blectrioity. — There is an interesting interview
in the Daily News of Monday with Mr. Orwell Phillips, of
the gas works at Horseferry-road. Mr. Phillips metaphori-
cally snaps his fingers at electricity, but trembles at the
fourpenny petroleum lamp. With regard to electricity he
says, what is to a large extent true, that the West-end man-
sions are not filched from the gas companies, but from the
sellers of wax candles. The occupiers of the best houses will
not use gas — ^it is too disagreeable, hot, dusty, evil-smelling
a light to suit them. Candles were their resource until
electricity came upon the field. An interesting fact,
however, comes out with regard to the consumption
of gas in Bond-street. Everyone who has visited
this street knows that from end to end at least
half the shops now use electric light. " Only
as an advertisement," says Mr. Phillips — " look at
the back shops and you will still find gas." And
he has had the curiosity to compare the returns of gas
consumption before Sir Coutts Lindsay put up his
machines, and with the receipts four years later. He
found that at the earlier period the receipts from Bond-
street were ^£7,200, and at the later period £7,800.
Perhaps, however, there lurks a mystery in the words
" four years." If he examines five or six years
later — what then ? Does this represent the year that
is past or not ? But, at any rate, the increase, in spite
of the substitution of some electric light, is interesting, and
bears out what has been noticed in other parts. Will it
continue — we shall see ; but it is necessary for gas
managers to put a good face on it, and will be still more
necessary for them to set about introducing large gas
engines for producing electric light. This will be of use,
and electrical engineers will then work with them.
Cost of Eleotric Energy. — The discussion in the
Financial News upon the " sheer *' cost of the production
of electrical energy still continues, and promises to lead
to interesting and important results. We shall have
more to say upon the subject when the correspondence
is complete ; meanwhile we will content ourselves
in advising practical men to read the correspondence,
and, if possible, give their experience in advocating the
usefulness of electrical distribution to financial men.
Mr. E. F. B. Harston apologises to Mr. Crompton for
mixing him up with another company, but at the same
time maintains that with any company charging 8d. a unit
the bills will be three times that of gas. Mr. John W.
Stringfellow, mechanical engineer and specialist, makes an
offer to act alone, or in conjunction with others, as stake-
holder of, say, £500 for a practical test of gas against elec-
tricity of 10 low-power and 10 high-power lamps, the installa-
tion to embrace complete plant in itself, and the fixed cost of
working to be taken. He suggested the Thames Embank-
ment as the best site for the proposed test. Mr. Albert Gay,
manager of the House-to-House Company, objects to the
statement that Crompton is a rival of their company,
the districts being separate. He asks what is meant
by sheer cost, and gives six heads : raw material, wear
and tear, wages of men, salaries of officers, rent, etc., and
general expenses, of which only the first and third he sup-
poses to be included in " sheer cost." Mr. Harston returns
to the charge, and asks, " Cannot the cost be reduced f
and wished to know whether the companies cannot charge
4d. instead of 8d. a unit. Messrs. Crompton, answering
Mr. Oay, admits the first three of the divisions of expen-
diture as included in '' sheer " cost. They reiterate that
they are prepared to prove to a committee that if gas and
electricity were produced on a sufficient scale — say enough
to supply two square miles of London — the cost of elec-
tricity would be as low, if not lower, than that of gas.
J. H, Holmes and Co.— Though late in the day, we
venture to record the fourth annual dinner of the employes
of Messrs. J. H. Holmes and Co., held on Saturday, the
26th ult , at The Crown Hotel, Newcastle-on-Tyne. About
50 persons sat down to dinner. After dinner a most enjoy-
able programme of music, vocal and instrumental, was
listened to, and, in response to the toast, Mr. J. H. Holmes
gave a very interesting account of the evolution of the
firm of J. H. Holmes and Co. The firm was established
in 1883, and made their first dynamo in June, 1885. This,
they have recently heard, is still working very well. The
first ship lighted on the Tyne was lighted by this firm, as
was also the first ship hailing from the Tyne — viz., the
" Tynesider." The fame of the Castle dynamo really com-
menced at the Newcastle Exhibition in 1887, and the same
year the firm entered their present premises, which were
doubled in less than two years. At the present time over
500 dynamos bearing this name are at work, and the six
hundred and twenty- fourth machine is now being built.
Mr. Holmes commented upon the good feeling which
existed between the firm and its employes, and expressed
the wish that this might long continue. Mr. Holmes
was frequently applauded during the course of his
remarks, and at the conclusion the whole company
joined in the customary goodfellowship chorus. The
toast to the firm's "Electrical Engineers" was responded
to by Mr. Broadbent (the outside manager), who gave a
brief summary of the year's work. He remarked that
during the year the firm had completed over 90 installa-
tions, including ships, collieries, hotels, houses, etc., and
had fixed over 11,500 lamps. The total number of dynamos
erected on these installations was 95, having an output of
13,605 lamps of 60 watts each, or 816,300 watts. The
number of dynamos made up to date during the year was
125, having an output of 2,650,000 watts. The meeting
broke up after a very enjoyable evening had been spent.
Electric Comiminlcation on Trains, — We have
often wondered why more British trains are not furnished
with electric safety communication with the guard and
driver, instead of the ancient and often useless outside
cord, for electric signals are common enough on the conti-
nental trains. We notice that a trial was made last week
on the " Dandie " train running between Glasgow and
Helensburgh, of a new system of electric communication
introduced by Messrs. Shiels and Elliott, of Glasgow, which
promises well. In the continental signals the handle is
kept in place by a cord with lead plug attached, which can
be broken by a forcible movement, which seems to us
probably rather preferable to the necessity of breaking a
glass and pushing a button. The latter is the method
adopted on the Shiels-EUiott system, which embodies
besides signal bells on engine and guard's van, and a
red semaphore which protrudes from above the carriage when
the signal is rung. This, of course, renders possible the
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, jANUARt 8, 1892.
uriv&l of aid in the shortest time. The bells are connected
by two trunk wires, which aie carried throughout the
length of the train, while two branch wires — one from each
tnink wire — are led into each compartment, and terminate
in an electric push placed under the parcel rack, and pro-
tected hy a metal cap with a small circular pane of glass in
the front of it, which the passenger breaks in order
to fn-eea the alarm push, the glass being specially pre-
pared so as not to injure the band of the person breaking it.
The connections are made by having at each end of the
vehicle a tubular bracket carrying a flexible hose-pipe with
a half-coupling at its end. These half-couplings are so
arranged that when the carriages are brought together they
can be interlocked by a simple movement similar in action
to the coupling of the Westinghouse air-brake. The contact-
pieces of the coupling are made on the double-wedge
principle, pressing firmly on each other when the coupling
is locked, and ensuring a good electrical connection, The
eonpling is also so constructed that should it have been
omitted to unloosen it during shuoUng operations, it
unlocks itself automatically, thus avoiding any damage
being done to the electric system. The trial was con,
sidered entirely successful.
Newbury. — A correspondent, writing to the Newbury
fFetkly News, goes with some detail into the cost of pro-
posed electric lighting in that town. After dealing with the
question of using Dowson gas (a question we should tike
to see further discussed) he goes on to give "figures for-
warded by one of the largest electric lighting companies in
London, who are prepared to deliver and erect the various
machines required at the undermentioned prices — viz.,
dymimo £500, storage batteries £500, transformer £550 —
the machines to be equal to the supply of an installation of
3,000 lights; and, furiiher, these prices are subject to a
discount of 30 per cent, for cash, so that the total cost of the
machines wilt be about £1,000 net. The cost of the mains
for the area designated in the order applied for by the Cor-
poration will not amount to £2,000, including casing, break-
ing up the streets, and making good, and that sum will be
considerably reduced if the mains are laid in the trenches
opened for the sewers, so that the total cost of the requisite
machinery and mains will not amount to more than £3,000,
leaving £3,600 for alterations to mill, compensation for
tenants' rights and contingencies ; probably about double
the amount that will be required. With regard to repairs
and renewals," he continues, " provided the dynamos are of
good manufacture and properly fixed, almost any electric
lighting company will contract to keep them in repair for
5 per cent per annum, and would make a good profit by so
doing, as many of the recent pattern dynamos are not costing
2 per cent for repairs. The accumulators will probably not
require to be used more than 20 days throughout the year,
and 1^ to 3 per cent, will amply cover their repairs and
renewals. The transformer will not cost more than 1 per
cent, to keep in repair; one that has been working at
ft very lat^ installation in Iiondon has only cost 17b.
for repairs during the 2J years that it has been running.
I puTpoeely left out of my account the cost of repairs to
mains as I knew that such enormous strides had been
made in the improvement of the casing and other important
detftile, that the figures of repairs of even two years
ago would be fallacious, and I am now informed that
many of the large companies will lay the mains and then
keep them in repair at from 1^ to 2 per cent, per annum ;
■o now we can total up the cost of repairs and renewals.
Dynanios 5 per ceQton,Bay,£^50, £17. lOs.; accumulators,
•ay 2 per cent on £350, £7 ; transformers, say 2 per cent,
on £400, £6 ; mains, say 2^ per cent, on £2,000, £50 ;
total, £83. lOe." As to estimate of receipts, he adds, lOs.
per lamp supplied is an exceedingly low revenue, probably
lower than any known. Mr, Preece's well-known estimate
was based upon every hunp connected witb the mains, and
some had only been so connected a very short time.
Coast CommoniOAtion. — Letters have again appeared
in the Times upon that all-important subject to Qreat
Britain as a kingdom — as a naval and commercial power —
the safe coast communication by telegraph or telephone.
Mr. A. Pendarves Vivian, in a letter dated January 1, 1892,
points out that as to difficulty of connection to isolated
lighthouses, we know that in the case of submarine cables,
the cable has even now often to be protected by a channel
cut in the rocks, cemented over afterwards. It would be
possible also, be suggests, to protect it by cast-iron pipes.
(We have before us at this moment a new flexible steel
casing for cables, which it is possible might be used.) The
difficulties, as Mr. Vivian states, are not new, for they have
to be contended with, more or less, in submarine cables
leaving a rocky coast, as at the South of Cornwall —
near Penzance. " With regard to lightehips," he rightly
says, "there is more novelty in the difficulties to
be overcome, but not for one moment would I believe
that the same skill and ingenuity which are now so con-
tinuously shown by our electrical engineers would not
speedily surmount them. I feel confident that any injury
to the cable, such as would occur by the constant motion
and the swinging of the ship, would be provided against,
and that, if necessary, a movable joint would be forth-
coming which would secure a perfect metallic contract,
which w9 all know is a necessity. The whole matter resolves
itself into a question of expenditure, and that it will be
costly no one can doubt ; but so are lifeboats, lighthouses,
and lightships, all of which have the same object in view —
namely, the protectiouand safety of valuablelives and cargoes."
Mr. Kobert Bayly, of Plymouth, writing on the same date
points out that communication of the " Sunk " Lightship
by telegraph and telephone to Walton- on -Naze when he
visited it in 1889 was perfect, the telephone especially being
preferred even in the worst weather. The experiments
there extended over five years, and were apparently per-
fectly successful. Really, this question of coast commu-
nication is becoming intolerable, Mr. Preece has
pointed out — and we have emphasised the fact —
that the matter does not lie within the business
of the General Post Office, which is a commer-
cial agency for carrying messages and letters, and not
for the saving of ships. This latter is a national afiair,
and all that is required is to introduce a short Sill
next session for an appropriation of, say, £100,000, and
then authorise the Post Office to carry out this work, which
they are perfectly competent and willing to do. The thing
would then be done, and a standing disgrace to England as
the first naval Power of the world, which yet cannot tako
the simplest telegraphic precautions for safety of her ships,
would be removed. We should like to ask what are the
Institution of Electrical Engineers doing in this matter. At
one time they were all telegraph engineers, with an energy
to overcome all difficulties — technical and financial. What,
we may ask, is the organ of the telegraph and submarine
cables doing to stir up the authorities to tackle this
problem, and that not less important, the establishment uf
underground land lines. Let the Institution of Electrical
Engineers, the London Chamber of Commerce, and the
Plymouth Chamber of Commerce put their heads together and
bring in r. Bill for the purpose so defined and so thoroughly
needed. This should command the sympathies of everyone —
Press and members of Parliament, alike with men of
business the kingdom over, and no timo should be lost in
putting the matter into practical form.
30
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8, 1892.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8, 1892.
31
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
According to our usual practice, we visited the majority
of stands on Wednesday in order to ascertain the prospects
of readiness for the private Press view, held to-day (Friday).
lu many instances the exhibits will be quite ready, iu
others partially ready, but alas ! in many, the unprepared-
ness must lead to considerable delay before the stands are
complete. No doubt a vast amount of final preparation
will be got through between the time of our visit and the
actual opening. The Machinery Annexe seems to be the
most backward, yet there will be plenty of material for the
visitor to examine from the momeut of opening. Com-
mencing a rapid survey from the north end, it was
seen that the elaborate screen of incandescent lamps
erected by the Edison-Swan Company, and which will be
one of the greatest attractions of the exhibition, was in a
forward state. Just below this screen is the large and
varied exhibit of the Postmaster-General, comprising the
historical and present-day apparatus used in telegraphy.
Almost the whole of the exhibits are now in position. Close
by is the exceedingly pretty stand of the Mining and
General Company — a study in black and red — the exhibits
upon which we understand will be quite ready. Mr.
White, of Glasgow, has a splendid display of Sir W.
Thomson's measuring instruments, fully complete.
Messrs. Nalder Bros.' stand in the same quarter is ready,
but not fully equipped. Still, the show of their make of
instruments should be a good one. Messrs. Evered, of
renown in the production of artistic fittings, have nearly
completed their exhibit, as have Messrs. Joel and Co. ;
while the W. T. Henley Company and the Fowler- Waring
Cables Company, exhibit cables and wires of varied descrip-
tions.
One of the most interesting features of this exhibition as
showing the development of telephone enterprise, will be
the concert-room of the National Telephone Company,
where on payment of a small fee the public will have the
opportunity of listening to the music which is being
performed at theatres in London, Birmingham, Manchester,
and Liverpool.
It must be allowed that the National Telephone Com-
pany and the Western Electric Company adjacent have
two of the best-arranged stands, and should be quite ready
at the opening ceremony. Of the large engineering firms,
Woodhouse and Rawson, Crompton, the Brush Company,
Siemens Bros., and Messrs. Johnson and Phillips, come
one after the other, and each of these stands will have
sufficient apparatus of interest to make a good show, though
it is perfectly evident some of them will not be completely
ready at the opening. The General Electric Company
will have some very effective exhibits, but we deem it
preferable not to enter upon detailed description till the
exhibition is fairly opened. Our readers require a little
more information than a mere catalogue list. Many of the
smaUor stands at the sides of the Central Nave will be
quite ready, and will fully exhibit the specialities of the
various manufacturers. Altogether the exhibitors may be
congratulated upon the vast amount of excellent work put
in since the commencement of the New Year, but even the
extra week's grace has not brought about that completeness
which the public look for and expect.
A visit to the galleries on Wednesday last showed that
considerable progress has been made since last week, and
that, though a good deal still remains to be done, some
of the stands will be in a fair way to completeness by
next week. We doubt, however, that several weeks must
elapse before the odour of paste and polish tones down.
The idea of exhibiting examples of living-rooms, con-
servatories, and so on, furnished and decorated in various
styles is excellent, and marks the advance that has
been made in practical electric lighting since the 1881
exhibition. It also shows that decorators and upholsterers
are fully aware of the advantages offered by the incan-
descent lamp, for here we find two such firms combining to
exhibit their wares under its light. We are afraid, how-
ever, that the desire for more light, which has been
growing steadily during the last decade consequent
upon the introduction of electric lighting, is likely to lead
to error. Whilst it is perfectly true that we want more
light in our streets, stations, and large buildings — and
since electric lighting led the way and educated the public,
have, to a certain extent, got it at the hands of the electrical
or gas engineers — it does not follow that the object of
introducing incandescent lamps into our houses is to
obtain more light. It has been repeatedly pointed
out that to have too much light in a room is almost
worse than not to have enough. The reasons why we
use electric lights are because they are cleanly, and do
not injure costly decorations, because they do not vitiate
the air, and because they can be placed exactly where we
want them. There is a flexibility about the incandescent
light which is wanting in all other systems of illumina-
tion. Now, this being so, we think it will be a
pity if the various firms who are exhibiting interiors
go in for demonstrating the illuminating power of
the electric light rather than its flexibility and adapt-
ability. We don't want to see floods of light in these
model rooms, but we want to see them really well lighted —
that is, to find the light just where it is required. For
instance, we very mueh fear that one of the dining-rooms
exhibited is to have a lamp depending from every square
yard of the ceiling, the wires coming through certain pro-
jections in the decoration. If this is the intention we
think it will be a mistake. True, the room will be
flooded with light reflected downwards by the white
ceiling, but there will be too much of it, and the method
of its introduction is not to be commended. Every room
requires to be lighted in a different way, because each is
used for a different purpose, and we hope this fact will be
fully recognised at the Palace, and, as we have said above,
the beautiful adaptability rather than the illuminating
power of the incandescent lamp brought before the public
with marked emphasis. But to chronicle the progress made
since our last visit. The stand of Messrs. Rashleigh
Phipps, and Dawson is rapidly nearing completion, and
one can get a fair idea of the appearance which the rooms
will have when the finishing touches have been put to
them. In the conservatory the rockwork is in evidence,
and this should prove quite a favourite spot for visitors,
as it will command a kaleidoscopic view of the main floor
below. The Old English hall, Italian dining-room, and
Japanese drawing-room have all taken on form and colour,
and a few days now will make a wonderful difference in
their appearance.
Messrs. H. and J. Cooper, of Great Pulteney-street,
are also well forward with their dining-room, bedroom, and
boudoir. The latter should afford many opportunities of
showing what can be done with the incandescent lamp.
Many ladies are halting between two opinions in the matter
of electric lighting. They are weighing the disagreables
of " wiring," which they, and especially their sterner halves,
place in the same category with " spring cleaning,'' " paper-
ing and plastering,'' etc., against the advantages which will
accrue from turning out the gasman and bringing in the
electrical engineer. Nothing will give the balance a kick
in the right direction more quickly than the sight of a
well lighted and cosy boudoir. This, no doubt, Messrs.
Cooper will take care to provide them with.
Messrs. Allen and Mannooch, of Mount-street,
Berkeley-square, W., are working hard to complete their
exhibit, which includes a dining-room, with dark oak
furnishing and panelling, a bedroom and a boudoir.
These rooms will no doubt attract considerable attention
when they are finished We hope, however, that the firm
will not try to overdo the lighting. Too many lamps, like
too many cooks, sometimes spoil the best of — intentions.
Mr. Giles, of High-street, Kensington, has a lar^e
stand which is in a fairly forward condition. It will
comprise a suite of rooms designed to show what he can
do in the way of decorating and furnishing.
Mr. C. B. Harness's gorgeous temple, wherein he will
'tice the B.P. after the manner of the nursery rhyme, was
filled with paperhangers and decorators at the time of our
visit, and will no doubt subsequently be crammed with the
believing. A huge signboard close at hand indicates that
this is the way to the camera obscura. Mr. Harness's
temple has been designed, and excellently well designed too,
by Messrs. Benison and Bargman, architects, of 16, Craven-
32
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8, 1892.
street, Strand, and has been put up by Mr. E. Triggs,
builder, of 95, The Chase. Clapham, S.W.
In close proximity to this stand is a suite of rooms which
are being decorated and furnished by Mr. W. Poolk,
Church-road, Upper Norwood, and Mr. Eldridge, of
Westwood-street, Upper Norwood, the two, although
trading separately, having, we understand, combined to
exhibit their different wares undei the soft rays of the
electric light. The suite will be very complete, and will
comprise hall, dining-room, drawing-room, bedroom,
bouaoir, and bathroom.
Close at hand, Messrs. Shippby Bros, are making a
special feature of American goods, and will show lamps and
motors in a hundred and one different shapes and sizes,
whilst giving practical illustrations of the many uses of the
latter. We are also promised something novel in the shape
of devices for attracting the public, but of these we shall
be able to say more when the promise has been fulfilled, as
no doubt it will.
ELECTROLYSIS OF GOLD SALTS.
BY ALEXANDER WATT.
(Continued from page 17.)
It should be mentioned that many of the solutions of
gold salts prepared for use in these experiments were of an
exceedingly unstable character, some of them being very
readily decomposed by light, in some cases being reduced
to the metallic state, often in a more or less crystalline
form ; while from some of the solutions prepared from the
teroxide the metal deposited in the form of protoxide soon
after the solutions of the persalt had been effected. This
separation of the protoxide occurred in some instances
when the solution of the persalt had been obtained without
the aid of beat, but more readily so when the respective
liquids were heated. In such cases, therefore, it was found
necessary to electrolyse the solutions of the unstable salts
referred to almost immediately after their preparation — that
is, during the brief period that the metal remained in
solution.
12. Aurochlmide of Sodium by Electrolysis, — A strong solu-
tion of chloride of sodium was electrolysed with the current
from three cells, a gold anode and silver cathode being used
as before. Chloride of gold at once formed at the anode,
and in a few minutes after a deposit of gold was received
upon the silver plate.
13. Aurochlatide of Potassium. — A solution of chloride of
potassium, being electrolysed with the same current as
above, yielded a deposit of gold .upon a silver cathode in a
few minutes after immersion.
14. AuroMoride of Magnesium. — A solution of chloride
of magnesium uuder the same conditions as above 'rapidly
dissolved the gold anode, and a deposit of the metal was
received upon a silver cathode in two or three minutes after
the electrodes were immersed in the liquid.
15. AuroMoride of Banum. — A solution of chloride of
barium, being electrolysed with the current from three
Daniells, dissolved the anode freely at once, and a deposit
of gold formed on a silver cathode in a few minutes after.
16. Aurochloride of Strontium. — A solution of chloride of
strontium, electrolysed under the same conditions as before,
yield a solution of gold, from which the metal became
deposited upon a silver cathode in a few minutes after
immersion of the electrodes.
17. Teracetate of Gold. — A solution of this salt was
formed by digesting moist hydrated teroxide of gold in
ordinary commercial acetic acid ; a small portion only of
the oxide became dissolved. The solution, after being
moderately diluted with water, was electrolysed with the
current from four Daniell cells, when a deposit of gold
slowly formed upon a silver cathode. After a few
minutes, green non-reguline metal formed upon the film
first deposited.
Id. Ter sulphate of Gold. — Hydrated teroxfde was digested
'? dilute sulphuric acid, and the resulting solution was
electrolysed with the current from three cells in series.
After a rather long immersion, a film of gold gradually
formed upon a cathode of silver ; the amount of gold in
solution was, however, small, and there appeared to be no
action upon the gold anode.
19. Terlactate of Gold. — In some former experiments in
the electrolysis of metallic salts the writer had found that
lactic acid exhibited a higher solvent power for metallic
oxides and carbonates, and even upon some metals, under
electrolysis, than could have been expected from so com-
paratively weak an acid. This fact induced him to ascer-
tain the behaviour of this acid in respect of gold. A
strong solution of lactic acid being prepared, a portion
of this was added to a quantity of moist hydrated
teroxide of gold, and the mixture repeatedly stitred
for a few minutes. The mixture was then placed on a
filter, and a portion of the clear liquid, which had a purple
tint, was afterwards tested with a solution of chloride of
tin, when the purple of Cassius at once formed, indicating
the presence of gold in the solution. The clear solution
was then electrolysed with the current from three Daniell
cells in series, a gold anode and strip of platinum foil being
used as the electrodes. Soon after the circuit was com-
pleted, a dark green film appeared upon the platinum,
while the anode, which at first presented a rather dull
surface, became somewhat brighter. The green deposit,
which, as before stated, represented gold in a finely-divided
(and non-reguline) state, was next heated by holding the
platinum foil on which it was deposited over the flame of a
spirit lamp, when after a few moments the gold film assumed
the more perfectly metallic state, but apparently in two
different conditions — one part of the film assuming the
characteristic colour of fine gold, but the remaining
portion (at the lower part of the cathode) was of a deep
orange-red colour. The gilt portion of the platinum was
next dipped into warm nitro-hydrochloric acid, when the
yellow part of the film readily dissolved, but the orange-
red portion was very tardily acted upon, and fell from the
plate in small grains of a deep red colour.
20. Lactate of Gold by Electrolysis. — ^An attempt was next
made to determine whether lactic acid, under the influence
of the current, would act upon the gold anode, forming a
solution of gold from which the metal could be deposited.
For this purpose, a strong solution of lactic acid was
electrolysed with the current from four cells, when in
about a quarter of an hour or so a green film appeared on
the silver cathode as before, proving that the anode had
been somewhat speedily acted upon by the acid. A
platinum cathode was next used, which received a yellow
film of gold shortly after immersion.
21. Purple of Cassius by Electrolysis. — A rather weak solu-
tion of pretochloride of tin was electrolysed with the current
from two cells, a gold anode and silver cathode being used.
Almost immediately after immersion of the plates, the
purple of Cassius formed at the anode, and gradually
deposited somewhat copiously at the bottom of the vessel.
This method of producing the purple salt might be found
useful.
22. Terchlmide of Gold in Hydrochloric Acid. — A solution
was prepared by dissolving gold in aqua regia and care-
fully evaporating the terchloride to dryness. A portion of
the dry gold and salt was then dissolved in hydrochloric
acid. The resulting solution was afterwards considerably
diluted and electrolysed with the current from a single
Daniell cell. A silver cathode immersed in the liquid received
a deposit of gold of very good colour very promptly, the
film being firmly adherent. It is not improbable that a
solution thus composed might be found useful for some
purposes, if worked with care. The liquid, however, must
be weak and the current low.
23. Ter&xide of Gold in Nitric Acid. — Teroxide of gold
was digested in dilute nitric acid, and the solution, after
being diluted, was electrolysed with the current from three
cells. Gras was given off at both electrodes, and metallic gold
deposited upon the silver cathode.
24. Saccharate of Gold by Electrolysis. — A strong solution
of saccharic acid was electrolysed with the current from
four cells, when the gold anode became very slowly
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8, 1892.
33
dissolved, and in about half an hour a film of gold of a
grey colour formed upon a platinum cathode, which readily
dissolved in aqua regia. A silver cathode was next auo-
stiluted, upon which the metal depoHited of the charac-
teristic yellow colour of gold at first, but after a time the
film acquired a somewhat dirty colour, indicating the
pressure of non-reguline metal— probably the ip-tij condition
before noticed.
25. Electrolysis of Bisidpkate of PotasHuvi. — A solution of
the biaulphate was electrolysed with the current from four
cells, a gold anode and silver cathode being used. Gas was
liberated at both electrodes, and in the course of abont
half an hour, or somewhat less, a slight film of gold
appeared upon the silver surface.
36. AvrtUe of Amm-mia in Lactic Acid. — A solution was
{irepared by dissolving aurate of ammonia in a strong solu-
tion of lactic acid. The solution, after being moderately
diluted, was electrolysed with the current from a single
cell, when gold of good colour at once became deposited
upon a silver cathode.
27. Odd TeroxUif, in Tartaric .4etd.— Hydrated teroxide
of gold was digested in a strong solution of tartaric acid
for some time, and the liquid, after being moderately
diluted, was tried with the current from three colls. Gae
was evolved at both poles, and a slight film of gold slowly
formed upon a cathode of silver.
28. EUctrdysii of Phospliaric Add.^h. strong solution of
pbosphoric acid was electi-olysed with the current from four
Daniells. In about faalf-anhour after immersion of the
plates it was found that a deep orange-red salt had formed
on the anode, which fell from the plates in transjtarent
flakes. A slight film of metAllic gold deposited on the
silver cathode.
29. EUdrolym of I'ajiadiale of Ammonia, — A strong
solution of vanadiate of ammonia was electrolysed with the
current from three cells, when after a short time the (colour-
less) solution acquired a rich yellow colour. At the bottom
of the vessel minute crystals of a deep red colour appeared,
and gold of a green colour and non-adherent formed upon
a platinum plate. This deposit when moderately heated
assumed a yellow colour. A silver cathode being substi-
tuted, this slowly received a slight film of reguline gold of
the usual colour.
30. Tefc«idc of Gold ij* fl^spboroui ^d<i.— Teroxide o!
gold was digested in a strong solution of phosphorous acid,
and the solution, after being filtered, was electrolysed with
the current from four cells. A very slight deposit of gold
formed on the cathode, but a long immersion failed to yield
a film of any thickness.
31. Eleetrolysis of Phosplmwie Aad.—A. strong solution of
phosphorous acid was electrolysed with the same current
as the last, and after a rather long immersion, a silver
cathode became slightly coated with a 61m of gold. On
examining the anode the immerced surface was found to be
coat«d with a deep orange-coloured salt, which separated
in transparent flakes, much resembling both in colour and
appearance the flaky film referred to in experiment 28, and
in several other experiments.
32. Elfclrolysin of Chlorate of Fijiasm.—&. moderately
strong solution of chlorate of potash was electrolysed with
the current from three cells. Gas was given off at both
electrodes, but otherwise there was no apparent action for
some time ; after a few minutes, however, it was observed
that a profuse quantity of flat scaly crystals floated on the
surface of the solution. On examining the anode at this
time, it was found to be coated with a bright blue film,
which was insoluble in the liquid.
33. Eltclrolyins of Hydriodic Acid. — A solution of hydriodic
acid being prepared, it was determined to ascertain if it
would dissolve gold from the anode by electrolysis. For
this pur{>ose the current from two Daniells was first tried,
when the liquid nearest the anode at once assumed a yellow
colour, but as there was no deposit of gold upon the silver
cathode a third cell was put in series, soon after which
black flakes fell from the anode and deposited at the
bottom of the vessel, On examining the cathode at this
time it was found to be coated with pale straw-coloured
gold.
3i. Gdd Teroxvle in Hydriudic Acid. — Moist hydrated
teroxide of gold — obtained by adding a solution of potash
to the terchloride — was digested in a strong solution of
hydriodric acid, in which it dissolved rather freely. The
solution thus obtained was electrolysed with the current
from three cells, when a deposit of green, non-reguline gold
formed ujton the silver cathode at once ; when this loose
deposit was wiped ofl with the finger, a film of yellow
reguline metal was found beneath, as is frequently the case
when the green form of gold is deposited. To prevent thd
formation of this variety of the metal, and to obtain a fully
reguline film, the solution wss diluted and ooe cell discon-
nected from the series, when the metal deposited in better
condition, but more especially when the cathode wa*
iiently moved about in the solution.
3.1. Eleclr'iysis of Iodide of Sodiwn. — A solution of
iodide of sodium was electrolysed with the current from
three cells, when the liquid nearest the anode immediately
acquired a yellow colour. The operation was then left
undisturbed for about 10 minutes, at the end of which
time the cathode was examined, when it was found to bd
coated with a film of gold in the green, non-reguline
condition.
36. Eleclrdysii of Iodide if Amvtimium. — A solution of
this salt, electrolysed under precisely the same conditions
as in the last ex[>eriment, soon acquired a yellow colour,
and the cathode, as before, was coated with a film of green,
nonreguline metal. When the solutions in this and thfl
last trial were diluted and the current reduced, the
gold deposited, thoueh somewhat slowly, in tbe yellow,
reguline state.
37. Gold Taiodide in IlyposidphUe of Swia.— Hydrated
teroxide of gold, precipitated by potash from the ter-
chloride, was digested in a solution of hyposulphite of
soda, and the resulting liquid electrolysed with the cun'ent
from three cells. A film of gold, of a good rich colour,
and firm'y adherent, was promptly deposited upon a silver
pUte.
38. CI<Ad Tfi-oiidt in Citiic Add.—Wy&nXaA teroxide of
gold was digested in a strong solution of citric acid, and
the liquid, after filtration, was electrolysed with the cur-
rent from three cells. Gas was freely given off at both elec-
trodes, and after a few minutes' immersion a slight film of
gold appeared upon a silver cathode. The amount of metal
in solution was, however, very slight, and there was no
apjiannt solvent action upon the anode.
39. Gdd Pivtiodide in PyrophosphaU of Soda. — Iodide of
gold was digested in a strong solution of pyrophosphate of
soda. The current from four cells was found necessary to
obtain a deposit upon a silver plate, and this only assumed
the form of an iridescent film. Gas was given otT at both
electrodes. On heating the plate to near redness the film
still retained its iridescent character, but the colourations
were rendered more vivid and brilliant by the boat to which
they had been snbjectrd.
40. Teruxide of Gdd in Bemidc Acid. — The precipitate
thrown down by carbonate of potassa from a solution of
gold terchloride, and the mixture afterwards boiled, was
digested in a hot solution of benzoic acid, and the still warm
solution was then electrolysed with the current from four
cells. Gas was evolved at both poles, and a slikiht film of
gold, of a yellow colour, was deposited u^Mn a silver plate.
A fifth cell was afterwards added to tbe series, when the
deposited gold assumed a dark colour.
41. Teroxiiie of Gold in Malic Acid. — The teroxide pre-
cipitated by carbonate of potash, and treated as before,
was digested in a strong and warm solution of malic acid.
The solution was then tried with the current from three
cells, but there being no apparent action, a fourth cell was
added, when g^ was liberated at each electrode, and a
dark — almost black— film formed u|K)n the silver cathode,
which was very adherent. When heated over the flime of a
spirit lamp, the film became iridescent, but when the sur-
face was rubbed yellow gold appeared attached to the
silver beneath.
{To be amiinued.^
34
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8. 1892.
REPORT ON TRIALS OF A 100-UNIT PARSONS
STEAM TURBINE DYNAMO AT HEATON WORKS,
NEWCASTLE-ON-TYNE.
BT PROF. KWING, F.H.S.
The machine tested in December last ia, I am informed,
the first condensing steam turbine that Mr. Parsona hi
built. Its shaft was designed to carry six small and or
lar^e ptate or disc, each fitted with a series of rings of
turbine blades, the large plate being specially designe "
deal with low-pressure steam. After passing it, the steam
was exhausted into a jet condenser of novel design, the
pump of which was driven by a separate donkey engine.
The turbine linga were of the outward flow type.
The turbine was (iesigoed to work with steam at an
initial pressure of HOlh, per square inch, hut on the
occasion of the trials it was not practicable, for want of
suitable boiler, to use a pressure of more than 95Ib. per
square inch. The 6rt-t and second plates with their turbine
blades were accordingly removed, and the testa were made
with the remaining four small and one large plate. The
effect of this was to make the results of the trials less
favourable, aa to economy in steam consumption, than they
would have been had the full initial pressure of 1401K
been available.
In line with the turbine shaft, and directly coupled to it,
was the armatnre of an alternate current dynamo capable
of yielding 100 kilowatts, or 100 Board of Trade units of
electrical energy |>er hour, and wound for a potential of
2,000 volts. The exciter was a distinct small dynamo of
the continue lis -current Gramme type, which was also
mounted on a prolongation of the turbine shaft.
The turbine ran at a speed of about 4,800 revolutiona
per mitint«, and the armature was wound with a single
coil, so that the frequency of the alternations was about 80
complete periods per second.
The whole machine, comprising the turbine, dynamo,
and exciter, weighed about four tons ; its length was about
Uft, and its greatest breadth barely 3ft. It stood on
three castiron pedestals resting on an ordinary concrete
floor. There were no holding-down bolts or special founda-
tions, and none seemed to be required. The machine ran
almost without vibration.
In the trials the cun'ent generated was spent on a Itank
of resistance coils consisting of open spirals of iron wire
strung on wooden framea, The output was varied, in
successive trials, from about 20 units per hour, or, say,
one-fifth load, to 100 uniU per hour or full load. The loads
spoken of are the amounts of electrical power spent in the
external circuit, and do not include the work done by the
exciter in supplying current to the field magnets of the
main dynamo. (The output of the exciter was about 3J
units per hours.)
In two additional trials there was no external load
beyond what was necessary for measuring the {Mtenlial.
The experiments were arranged to give complete informa-
tion of the amount of steam used by the turbine under all
grades of output from full load to zero.
The electrical output was taken to be the product of the
effective volu at the dynamo terminals into the effective
Kmperi.li. The volts were measured by aid of a 2-h,p.
transformer, which tianaformed down in the ratio of 1
to 10, and a pair of Cardew voltmeters. To test the
accuracy of the professed ratio of transformation, the volta
e on one occasion read by applying a Cardew voltmeter
to racc«Bsive portions of the hank of resistance coils (then
grouped in aeries), so that the |x)tential was directly deter-
mined by summing up the readings. This determination
I found to agree exactly with that obtained by means
""e tTkniformer.
t Cudew voltmeters were themselves tested by com-
an with a third Cardew, which in its turn had been
idanliHd liy help of one of Sir William Thomson's
SM. They were found to be correct
I current was measured by (l)an Evershed gravity
l«r, and (2) a Siemens electro-dynamometer.
B coftnected in series in several of the trials, and
■ found to be in perfect agreement The Kvershei
Bonl bttd been tested against a Thomson balance.
The consumption of eteam in the turbine was measured by
passing the feed-water through a measuring tank, th«
capacity of whijh I cheeked. Steam was supplied from an
old boiler of the locomotive type at a pressure of 901b. to
96Ib, per square inch. The steam-pipe was too small, and
the loss of pressure between the boiler and the turbine
must have been considerable, especially in the full-power
trials.
In the full-power trials this boiler was insufficient to
supply all the steam, and another boiler was joined to it.
It was then impracticable to measure the feed, and the
amount of steam passing through the turbine was esti-
mated in theae trials by measuring the rise in temiwrature
of the water discharged from the condenser, in conjunction
with the amount oE the water, as gauged by means of a
weir. This rise in temperature and the head over the weir
were noted in all the trials, so that when the feed was
directly measured a constant wae determined which could
be ap;ilied in cusen where a direct measurement of the feed
was impracticable.
The boiler was old and leaky, but the amount of waUr
which fell to be deducted from the whole feed on this
account was repeatedly determined. The allowances made
for leakage are certainly not excessive, and do not in any
case affect the full-power trials materially.
The steam required for (1) the feed-pump, (2) the air-
pump, was supplied by a separate boiler, and is not included
in the quantities that are stated below.
The vacuum ranged from 28Mn. at light loads to 2G{in.
at full load. The temperature of the cold well varied from
5deg. C. to ISdeg. C.
The trials extended over three days — December 12tb.
14th, and loth, 1891. The turbine was kept running,
without change of load, long enough in each case to secure
a uniform regime, and to prevent any material error from
being caused by an inexact reading of the water-gauge
glass on the boiler. The machine ran without any hitch
throughout all the ttials.
The following are the obaerred results. The trials dis-
tinguished by an asterisk are those in which the consump
tion of steam was inferred from the rise of temperature in
the injection- water. In the other trials it was measured
di recti]', as toed -water.
Electrical output in units Stenni used in the turbine
KeneratG<l per hour. in pounds per hour.
03 S"*\«92 ,~_.i
0-3 i-SJ**" imma)
20'8 I,12U ,,
31-2 1.350 'I
48-5 1,875 ^^1
86-9 2.4a0' ^H
G6'5 3,580 ^^M
93 3.630' ^^B
100 3.800* ^^
These results are also shown graphically in the accom-
panying curve, which shows the relation of the number of
pounds of steam used by the turbine per hour to ihs
number of electrical units generated per hour.
It is convenient also to express the results in anotber
way, by stating the number of pounds of steam used per
unit generated, at various rates of output from full load
downwards. These quantities, obtained by meaaurement
from the curve, are given in the following table :
Output in units Number of pounds of •(«■■
per hour. used per anit. i^^H
10 771 ^H
20 63 ^^1
30 45 ^^M
40 41 ^H
SO 39 ^^1
60 38 ^H
70 m ^H
80 37 ^H
90 37 ^H
100 37 ^M
It will be seen from these figures that the consunptioK^^I
of steam by this condensing turbine was 371b. par electriad^H
unit generated, when the machine was giving ita gr«atett
output ; that the output might be reduced to, eay, tbraw-
fourths of its greatest value without causing any sensible
tion in the consumption of steam per unit; and that at
half load the consumption was 391b per unit Wbon iIm
load is further reduced the consumption [wr unit ii
tHE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8, 189^.
< ^
35
as it does in all engines, on account of the work which is
expended within the machine itself.
The consumption of 371b. per unit at full load corre-
sponds to 27 "Gib. per electrical horse-power per hourj and the
consumption of 391b. per unit, at half load, corresponds to
291b. per electrical horse-power per hour.
For the sake of comparison it may be added that in a good
ordinary compound condensing engine of corresponding
power the consumption of steam is usually about 201b. per
indicated horse-power per hour, which corresponds (allowing
for necessary loss in transmission to the dynamo) to, say,
361b. per unit In the special type of single-acting high-speed
engines made by Mr. Willans, and successfully used in
many electric light stations, the consumption of steam at
full load and at moderately full load is somewhat less. The
best results in trials published by him show (with high
pressure and triple expansion) a consumption equivalent
to about 30^1b. per unit in a non-condensing engine and
251b. per unit in a condensing engine, worked at full load ;
while at half load the luimbers are about 431b. per unit and
321b. per unit respectively.
I have no doubt that if it had been practicable in
the turbine tests to use the full pressure of 1401b. per
square inch for which the turbine was designed (in place of
a pressure of 951b.) that the consumption of steam per unit
would have been considerably reduced.
As they stand, however, the results must be admitted to
demonstrate a very remarkable performance. They show
that in respect of economy of steam, and therefore of fuel,
at full or moderately full load, the Parsons turbine of the
type and size tested now challenges comparison with good
engines of the usual kind, while its comparative freedom
from friction gives it an exceptionally high efficiency when
lightly loaded.
Apart from the question of steam economy, the lightness
and compactness of the turbine dynamo, its small first cost,
the perfect ease with which it is started, its freedom from
vibration, and the absence of any need for heavy founda-
tions, are points much in its favour as a generator for
centnd station work.
Mr. Parsons has been good enough to give me every
facility for examining the construction of his turbines and
dynamos. I see no reason to anticipate that the charges
for maintenance, for oil, and for attendance will be larger
than in the case of other engines I should rather expect
them to be lighter, and this appears to be borne out by the
experience of the Newcastle and District Electric Lighting
Company, where turbine generators have been in use for
about two years.
I had the advantage of seeing the plant at that company's
station and of obtaining particulars in regard to wages and
other items of current outlay from the superintending
engineer and the secretary of the company, who were most
willing to supply information.
In regard to first cost, the turbine generator is probably
cheaper, in large sizes, than any combination of ordinary
engine and dynamo giving equal output.
The machine tested had an electrical governor which
regulated by causing intermittent admission of steam.
The action of this governor was not entirely satisfactory,
and Mr. Parsons informed me that he meant to substitute
for it a modified form of a type of governor which has been
found to work well at the Newcastle and district electric
light station and elsewhere.
The turbine worked at its full load of 100 electrical
units per hour without any sign of distress, and so far
as could be judged was capable of giving a greater output
without difficulty. The dynamo armature became hotter
than is, in my opinion, desirable. This might be avoided
by an alteration in the winding of the armature.
With a dynamo wound to give continuous currents, the
consumption of steam in the turbine per electrical unit
generated may be confidently expected not to exceed the
consumption observed in these experiments.
introduced by the Caustic Soda and Chlorine Syndicate, Limited,
of 58, Lombard -street, E.C. It has this week been inspected in
operation by a number of gentlemen at the works of Messrs. Bowes
Scott and Weston, PhcBuix Wharf, Battersea. The passing of an
electric current throup^h a solution of common salt divides the
latter into caustic soda and chlorine, but the principal difficulty
hitherto encountered in plaoinc^ any method of this kind on a com-
mercial footing has been to prevent the recombination of the elec-
trolysed products. It is claimed, however, that the inventor of
the process in question has surmounted this obstacle by the use
of a patent diaphragm and a compound anode.
Mr. W. H. Preece,whohas made experiments with the plant, states
that the commercial efficiency of the process is 75 per cent., and he
is certain that in actualjpractice, and with further experience, even
better results can be obtained. As far as the expense of producing
electrical energy is concerned, he says that in the coal districts,
with triple-expansion modern engines and dynamos, working con>
tinually at full load, the cost would amount to ^. per kilowatt
hour. The total cost of producing caustic soda and bleaching
powder and liquor would, according to Mr. Preece, be little more
than one- third of their present market value.
Dr. Gore, F.R.S., has drawn up two reports. He states that he
is convinced of the scientifically practicable character of the
method, and that nearly all the chief engineerinfn; chemical diffi-
culties of the process appear to him to have been overcome. He
also expresses the opinion that the amount of labour and the
number of workmen necessarv in the process, when carried out on
a large scale, would probably be small in comparison with that
required for producing the same quantities of the same produote
by the usual methods, because the entire process would be laigely
automatic.
Messrs. Cross and Bevan, of the laboratory, 4, New-court,
W.C, find that the efficiency of the process has advanced to 80
per cent., as compared with 70 per cent, when preliminarily
examined by them some months a^i^o.
The plant laid down consists of five electrolytic tanks arranged
in the form of a flight of steps, whilst the vessel containing the
supply of brine is erected on a higher level than the top tank.
This arrangement ensures an automatic circulation of the solutions.
Each tank contains five compound anodes and six cathodes placed
alternately, these being separated by diaphragms. The anode is
formed of carbon plates having a metal core so as to increase the
conductivity ; it is specially treated so as to render it non -porous
and unattackable by the chlorine gas which, it may be mentioned,
is evolved on its surface. The cathode, on which is formed the
caustic soda, is an iron plate. The patent diaphragm is of peculiar
construction, being composed of stripe of slate arranged in a
longitudinal frame. These strips are placed at an angle of about
45(ieg., one above the other and on each side of the frame, an
intermediate packing of asbestos fibre beinff used. The diaphragm
and the anode constitute the two principal features of the process.
Each tank is divided into 10 anode or chlorine sections, and 10
cathode or caustic soda sections. The anodes and cathodes in
each tank are arranged in parallel, and the ^\e tanks in series.
An E M.F. of 4*4 volts, witn a current of 10 amperes per square
foot of electrode surface, is required to overcome the resistance of
each tank. Vulcanite tubes are employed to connect the 50 anode
sections, the inlet bein&r at the bottom and the outlet at the top of
each section. The cathode sections are similarly connected.
The working of the process is, briefly, as follows : The tanks are
charged with a solution of common salt, and on a current being
passed the solution is decomposed or divided into its constituents,
chlorine and sodium. A secondary action occurs in the separation
of the sodium, and this converts it into caustic soda. After
passing out of the lowest tank the salt solution and the caustic
soda are pumped back to their respective charging vessels, the
former to be further decomposed and the latter to be further con-
centrated. The chlorine gas ^iven off in the anode sections passes
by means of branch and mam pipes into four absorbing tanks.
These contain lime and water kept in a state of agitation and
which takes up the chlorine and transforms it into bleaching or
chlorate liquor as required. The caustic soda formed in the anode
sections is rendered more or less concentrated according to the
particular purpose for which it is required.
The company state that the process will be of great importance
to the paper, soap, and bleaching industries, and that it is also
applicable to the production of sodium amalgam and chlorine for
extracting gold and other metals from their ores, and caustic and
chlorate of potash and other chemicals. This brief description of
Mr. Greenwood's process is given, as the lawyers say, ** with-
out prejudice." So maoy processes have from time to time
been put forward, and have failed, even when reported upon by
the highest authorities, that a considerable amount of caution
must w used. A process may be theoretically perfect, and seem
commercial upon an experimental scale, though, when tried upon
a large scale, it proves to be less successful.
OBBBNWOOD'S ELECTRO-CHEMICAL PROCESS.
A new process for the direct production of caustic soda and
eUorioa hiaa been devised by Mr. J. Greenwood, and is now being
Tndor Aoonmolatora. — The Tudor Accumulator
Company have issued an illustrated catalogue of some pre-
tension. Besides information as to size and prices,
chapters are given, one containing the reports on these
accumulators by MM. Uppenborn, Rohlrausch, and
Monnier, and others, and the other dealing with best
methods of mounting accumulators. Directions for the
care and management of the cells are given in a special
chapter.
36
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEEH, JANUARY 8, 189^.
THK
tLECTRICAL ENGINEER.
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ElectrolysiB of Gold Salts ... 32
Report on Trialsof a lOOUnit
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Greenwood's Electro-Chemi-
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1892 36
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New South Wales Electrical
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It is usual at the commencement of each new
year for the Queen to honour those in her realm to
whom the Prime Minister for the time being believes
honour to be due. Such honours are conferred
for various reasons — mostly political. At times,
however, other claims are held to be paramount,
and the scientific world contributes its quota to
those who receive these honours.
Few announcements will give more pleasure to
the scientific world in general, and the electrical
world in particular than, the announcement that a
peerage is to be conferred on Sir William Thomson.
In his person no one can complain that scientific
pre-eminence is not rewarded, though it would
indeed be difficult to add distinction to that he has
himself achieved by his numerous practically
useful inventions and deep mathematical researches.
Elected President of the Boyal Society last year, the
highest purely scientific honour a native of the United
Kingdom can receive, his elevation to the peerage is
only a further step in his distinguished career. We
have no need to allude to Sir William Thom-
son's achievements in science — they are too well
known to our readers to require iterated
mention, but we do not think his kindness
and interest iu struggling students, of whom he
must have had an enormous number under his
charge, has been brought to light. We remember
one interesting example which will bear mention at
this juncture, and illustrates the kindness of two
men and the influence a little help will have upon a
young man's life. The late Dr. Boyston Piggott,
who died recently at Eastbourne in the fulness of
ripe age, was in early years Sir William's mathe-
matical tutor, and kept his interest in his dis-
tinguished scholar. Dr. Piggott was always
interested in promising young students, and one of
his proteges was the son of a policeman who had
taken to amateur electrical experiments. The doctor
learnt of this, gave the lad lessons, and then asked
the father whether he wished his son to be made an
electrician. The father did not seem anxious for
honours, but the mother was, and, armed with a
letter of introduction to Sir William Thomson, she
posted to Glasgow with the boy and a heap of
electrical instruments. Sir William was not at
home, but visiting at a country house in the
neighbouhood. Not to be daunted, the hopeful
mother took a cab, and, with the seat crowded with
instruments, called at the house, and asked for
Sir William, who came down from the billiard-
room with a cue in his hand. With much amuse-
ment and interest he interrogated the couple, and
finally made an appointment at the college in
Glasgow, and found the boy a place. It is many
years ago now, but this young man, we believe,
soon after received an appointment as superinten-
dent of telegraphs in one of the colonies, at a salary
of some £600 a year — ^rather better than he might
have hoped for in his native town. Numerous
other cases might be quoted to show that
THE ELBSCTRtOAL SNGINEBR, JANITARY 8, 1891
37
Sir William feels an interest in human as well as
scientific problems. Nor have we probably heard
the last of his contributions to the latter. It is
possible, we hear, though not yet decided, that the
title which Sir William will take will be that of
Lord Kelvin, firom the name of the once beautiful river
which flows past the foot of the college grounds at
Glasfjow, and on which his windows' look out.
May he live long to enjoy his honours !
In our next issue we shall give a further series of
portraits similar in style to those given in our last
number. As far as possible our publisher will
refuse to supply single copies of these special issues
to casual purchasers. We do not cater for those
who pick up an odd number of the paper now and
again, but desire to do the best to provide suitable
pabulum for those who are regular readers.
If in our issue of January 2, 1891, we felt con>
strained to say " the business problems that await
solution to-day . . . are very similar to those
awaiting solution a year ago," we should not be far
from correct in restating that view. Yet there is a
great difference in January, 1892, over January,
1891. Financiers were still very shy in 1891;
they are still shy, but less so, because month
by month electrical engineers are demonstrating
the certainty and the suitability of electric lighting
for general work. Then the great experiment of
Lauffen-Frankfort — whatever may be the econo-
mical figures connected therewith— the great experi-
mental departure of the year, has forced attention
from those still inclined to scoff at the probabilities
of electrical applications. English electricians have
sadly attempted to belittle the adoption of polyphase
apparatus. In public and in private they have
denied there was anything good in the idea, but they
find their continental and American confreres refus-
ing to see in the same light. Let us admit that we
have still much to learn about poljrphase apparatus,
and await further experimental and theoretic study
before condemning the departure.
Financial. — Whether the future will see rotary-
current apparatus pass into oblivion or develop into
greater prominence, there can be no doubt it has
proved the grandest advertisement for electrical engi-
neering that the past year brought forth. It has
helped other and more modest work in the eyes of
the financiers, so that at the present time more than
one energetic firm or company finds it less difficult to
finance its new schemes than was found twelve months
ago. It would not be right, however, to hint without
quahfication that " finance " was now easy, and
would continue so. There are troubles looming
ahead connected with companies whose prospects
are thought to be bright. Long ago we suggested
investment in low-priced shares — such as the Brush
were then quoted — to some higher-priced ones. The
market quotation is not always an indication of real
value ; there is such a thing known as making a
price. We again reiterate in the strongest possible
manner, avoid the highest prices and be content
with the lower. With the exception that it makes
financing difficult, we care little what the public
gains or loses in its buying and selling shares. The
public has no sympathy with those who correctly
advise, and, on the other hand, the adviser often cuts
his own throat by making enemies of those who are
willing to pay for silence. The smash up of a big
company, however, is harmful to the industry
generally — hence our warning. There are few or
none of the existing concerns past recall, and most
of them with a moderate amount of care will prove
good investments.
Traction. — The event of the year, so far as
England is concerned, has been the installation of
the Thomson-Houston overhead system of trams at
Leeds. We gave a very completsi description of this
line at the time of the opening, and the experience
of our friends living in the district is altogether in
favour of the line. At the time of the opening
ceremony we attempted to get the views of
residents on the route, but, like most Yorkshiremen,
they refused to commit themselves. A few days
since, testimony unasked for was forthcoming, and,
as we say, altogether in favour of the line. No doubt
Mr. Graff Baker has had similar testimony from a
number of people, but this outside praise cannot be
unacceptable. The consensus of opinion being thus
favourable, should lead to a rapid extension towards
the centre of the town ; and the success at Leeds, we
trust, will induce other places to go forward. The
City and South London, while it may not have
fulfilled all the expectations of its promoters during
its first year of existence, is undoubtedly gradually
winning its way to success, and the experience
gained thereon will be invaluable in the exten-
sions to be undertaken in other quarters of
London. The earliest of our electric trams —
that of Mr. Volk's at Brighton — after under-
going vicissitudes of no ordinary kind, is still
running satisfactorily, and is about to be greatly
improved. The widening of the roadway has made
it difficult to keep the rails clean enough to use one
rail as a lead and the other as a return, so a third
rail is to be added. Two new cars are being built
by Messrs. Kerr, Stuart, and Co., which Mr.
Reckenzaun will fit with motors. The other lines
are much as they were. Mr. Holroyd Smith is to
carry out an experiment at Halifax, and we have no
doubt he will be as successful there as at Blackpool.
What promises to be the great feature of the present
year is the Liverpool overhead railway, the apparatus
for which is being constructed at Wolverhampton.
The Acme Electric Works inform us that the
past season has been the most successful that the
firm has experienced, and the works have been fully
occupied throughout the year, and, in fact, for the
last four months it has been necessary to keep them
going on overtime regularly. They have been
favoured with a succession ot orders from Govern-
ment departments for heavv switchboard and other
work, and have substantial current orders in hand.
The present year has opened out in a very promising
manner. With reference to the Teague patent
electricity meter, this has now been developed into
a commercial instrument, and the labours upon it
38
tHE fiLfiCfRlCAL ENGINteEH, JAi^lTARY S, 1892
have been rewarded by important orders. The firm
has considerably extended its plant in the instru-
ment department, which enables rapidly-increasing
demands to be met with faciUty. The new Acme
patent ampere and voltmeter has turned out most
successful, and has been received with much favour,
and the demand for the same is steadily on the increase.
The firm's well-known switches and fuses still main-
tain the prestige they have so long enjoyed, and
business in this department is increasing rapidly.
Benham and Froud say, generally, that they have
been very busily engaged in the manufacture of
electric fittings of the highest class of art metal
work throughout the whole year.
Drake and Gorham. — A review of the work done
by Messrs. Drake and Gorham shows that country
house lighting is on the increase, this firm having
carried out about 50 installations, notably Wynyard
Park, for the Marquis of Londonderry, 1,000 lights ;
Margam Castle, for Miss Talbot ;^ Ehinefield, for
Lieut. Munro ; Hoddam Castle, Ecclefechan ;
Felstead Schools ; Clatford Mills, Andover, for Mr.
Forster ; Adhurst St. Mary, for Mr. Bonham Carter ;
Shendish, for Mr. Longman ; Leonardslee, Horsham,
for Sir E. G. Loder ; Ardoe, for Mr. Ogston ; The
Lodge, for Mr. de la Rue, etc. A number of houses
have been wired for the supply from a central
station, and the firm are carrying out work for
Crompton-Howell Electrical Storage Co. —
We give the contribution of this company to theyear's
information re work done in their own words :
''As so much has been said about the inevitable
losses which the use of accumulator storage entails
on an electric supply system, we think this is a
fitting opportunity to enclose the annual report we
have just received from the engineer of the
Kensington and Knightsbridge Company, which has
been our oldest customer, and has continuously used
our accumulators for nearly seven years. We give
you the figures exactly as received, although they
show a low efliciency during last January and
February, due to the fact that owing to the excep-
tionally severe weather the temperature was so
low that they were working in an exceptionally
unfavourable manner. As soon as means were
provided for maintaining the battery-rooms at
a regular temperature, the efficiency at once
rose to the average of the year — viz., about 79 per
cent. These efficiencies are the actual commercial
efficiencies taken at the recording meters. The
losses include not only the losses in the batteries
themselves, but those due to the resistance of the
charging leads, which connect the distant accumu-
lator station with the generating station. The losses
shown, therefore, are accurately representative of
the total losses due to the use of accumulators for
that part of the output which passes through them.
WORK DONE BY ACX^UMULATORS IN 1891.
Kensington Court and Qc7££N*s Gate Batteries.
Kensington Court only.
Month,
1891.
Charge in Discharge in
ampere^ours. ampere-hours.
Efficiency,
ampere-hours.
Efficiency,
watts.
Charge in
ampere-hours.
Discharge in
ampere-hours.
Per cent,
ampere-hours.
Per cent,
watts.
January
February
March
April
May
113174 1 77-592
96 603 ' 74 005
82-977 1 73-2,30
101 021 90-487
89-257 82 274
95-603 88 •0-28
68 6
76-6
88-3
891
92
92
92-2
90-5
91
91-4
93
90-5
66
69
78-5
79
80
80-5
86
84
84
80-5
86
81-5
45-742
46-868
43*311
.39-015
33-873
46-349
41-277
43142
40-525
26-549
31 -265
42-350
90
92
93-5
93-6
92-5
91-5
83
85-5
86-5
June
July
August
September ...
October
November .
December . . .
99-778
78-856
75-274
91-814
104 114
115-655
91-864
71-283
68-416
83-919
96-987
104-052
86-5
85-5
85
Totals
1,144-036 1,002-137
88
795
Rkmarks. — During January no provision had been made at the Queen's Gate battel y station for heating so that the efficiency fell
very low. During March improvements were made in the system of charging the batteries, hence the increased efficiency. The
efficiency in watts cannot be calculated directly from the figures given for ampere-hours, as the results depend upon the proportion of
work done by the batteries at each station. Owing to the fall of potential in the charging mains to Queen's Gate, the watt emciency at
that station must be lower than at Kensington Court; also it depends on the amount of cnarging done separately or in connection with the
lighting. A few readings are given showmg the efficiency of the Kensington Court home battery taken by themselves, in order to show
how considerably the loss in the charging mains reduces the total average efficiency for the year.
the London County Council at the weights and
measures testing station, Newington. The wiring
of the Eoyal Colonial Institute has also been carried
out by them. The Cardew patents have been
further developed, and the earthmg device has been
formally approved and sealed by the Board of Trade.
There is a considerable demand for the D.P. battery,
both from the trade and private users.
J. K. Fahib AND Son, of Dublin, have been fairly
busy during the year, especially in the capacity of
consulting electrical engineers. Numerous inspec-
tions of suitable water power in the country districts
for driving dynamos have been made, and various
reports prepared. The firm have now under their
superintendence several installations, the most im-
portant carried out during the year being that of
the suburban residence of the well-known Southern
brewer, J. J. Murphy, Esq., J.P., on the banks of
the Lee. The firm expect to have a good share of
electrical work on hand during the present year.
This at Kensington is one-eighth part of the whole
output, so that the use of accumulators in this station
during the past year has only entailed the loss of 2^ per
cent, in the entire output. Mr. MiUer's remarks are
interesting in showing that the efficiency obtained
from the home batteries, which does not include
losses in charging mains, is practically in excess of
85 per cent."
Crystal Palace District Electric Supply
Company.— The business of this company has been
entirely reorganised during the last year. The
principal works with which the company was con-
nected were the provisional orders for the Crystal
Palace and district, and for the city of Oxford ; also
the small central station in Walbrook. All business,
except that connected with the Crystal Palace and
district, was transferred, the name of the com-
pany having been altered to that of the Crystal
Palace District Electric Supply Company,
Limited, carrying on solely the ousiness under
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8, 1892
39
the provisional order for that locality. The pro-
visional order for Oxford is being carried out
by a local company entitled the Oxford Electric
Company, Limited, who have contracted with
the Electric Construction Corporation for a
complete plant comprising central station for the
supply of a continuous current of moderate high
tension, with subsidiary transformer and accumu-
lator stations, and an application is now before the
Board of Trade for the transfer of the provisional
order to the local company in question. The Wal-
brook station has been transferred to the Electric
Construction Corporation. The generating station
at Sydenham is ready for the supply of current to
the exhibitors at the Crystal Palace. The works
have been carried out with extraordinary energy by
Messrs. J. E. H. Gordon and Co., whose contract
was signed on the 13th August last, and the works
are now practically completed, as already described
in this journal. A large number of the exhibitors
at the Crystal Palace have contracted with
the company for the supply of current, including,
among others, the following : Edison-Swan United,
Wm. S. Freeman, Shirley and Co., James Pitkin,
the Mining and General Electric Lamp Company,
Woodhouse and Eawson United, the Medical Battery
Company, the Electric Construction Corporation,
Consolidated Telephone Constiuction, and Main-
tenance Company, Thomas Jenner, Eashleigh
Phipps and Dawson, the Fowler- Waring Cables
Company, Swinburne and Co., Frank Suter and Co.,
Marryat, Lilly white, and Co., the Electrical Power
Storage Company, the Telegraph Manufacturing
Company, Evered and Co., Anders Elliott and
Chetham-Strode, the Western Electric Company,
etc. At Oxford the building of the generatincr station
at Cannon Wharf, on the banks of the Eiver Thames,
and which will occupy 100ft. frontage to the river, is
being rapidly pushed forward, and it is expected that
the supply of electricity will be ready early in the
spring. The demand in Oxford promises to be very
large, as the project has been very favourably received
by the heads of colleges and public institutions, the
Corporation, private residents, traders, etc.
The General Electric Company can again
report considerable expansion in their works at
Manchester during the year 1891. They have
taken three more buildings, and increased the
number of hands from about 400 to nearly 600.
The demand for electric light fittings, such as
switchboards, switches, cut-outs, ceiling roses,
lampholders, has been very large, and at the
beginning of the winter stocks were thoroughly
exhausted, and the company had to make great
efforts to cope with the demand. They have
largely increased the factory for making meters, both
current and volt or ammeters, and the facilities for
calibrating and testing are now such that they can
fill any orders at early dates. It was natural that
the department for electric signalling should be
increased considerably during the last year, as then
the telephone patents expired, and immediately after
the expiry the company was extremely busy and fall
with orders for transmitters, receivers, and all kinds
of switches. The Johnson microphone, of which
they are the sole makers, has especially taken
extremely quickly, and has found its way already
into several large and important central stations.
As for the general supply business, the home
trade has been increasing very considerably
during the year, both in London and most
of the country towns, but it is unfortunately
fi>and that the prices are being cut down in all
Itfticles, leaving a margin of profit which seems
ridiculous, considering the newness and risks of the
electrical trade, which leaves only one consolation —
that it is impossible to continue. The trade to the
Continent and to the Colonies, however, has not
only increased in volume, but has also been more
profitable, and the company finds that some of the
most outlandish and uncivilised countries are be-
coming their best customers. The endeavour for
the new year is to again improve all china fittings to
a degree of perfection to which they have never
attained, and to keep large stocks in advance so
that contractors may draw from stocks in future
without the expense and risk of keeping stock for
themselves.
General Electric Power and Traction Com-
pany.— The close of 1891 sees the end of the first
financial year of this c jmpany. It will be gathered
from the directors' report, which was published on
the 18th of December, that electric traction has
been almost entirely stopped by legislative and local
obstacles of so stringent a character as to practically
prohibit business ; in spite of this, however, con-
siderable progress has been made. The service of elec-
tric cars at Barking has been improved, and advantage
has been taken of the experience there gained m
estimating for maintenance contracts on a large and
commercial scale. Indeed, as was foreshadowed by
the chairman's speech to the shareholders, the
company have reason to expect traction orders to the
extent of ±150,000 during the coming year. With the
knowledge they have gained there is but little doubt
of a satisfactory result. The sub-contract with the
E.P.S. Company for the maintenance of the
accumulators at a fixed mileage rate removes the
only doubt which capitalists may have had for
the success of this form of electric traction, for it is
needless to say that the combined companies, with
their unrivalled opportunities of gaining experience,
are quite capable of carrying out contracts entrusted
to them. Apart from Barking, considerable progress
has been made in other places. For some months a
self-contained car was run over the tramway system
at Liverpool, carrying ordinary loads and keeping
schedule time, thus proving the practicability
of this class of car over steep grades. A
smaller accumulator car is now being built for
use on the Birmingham lines, so as to make com-
parison with the cost of the larger double-bogie
trams running there at present. It is firmly believed
by the company that these small accumulator cars,
carrying about 36 passengers, will satisfactorily solve
the problem of tramcar propulsion in our crowded
thoroughfares. In mining work the company has
been very busy, and has lully doubled the quantity
of work done in this department in the preceding
year. Electricity has been used for lighting, pump-
ing, hauling, fan driving, and coal- getting with
unvarying success. In launch work the company
stands practically alone, and during the busy
periods of last season controlled the pleasure traffic
of the Thames. During week-ends the whole of their
available boats were usually let, and in some cases
could have been let two or three times over. In
spite of the bad season this department has been a
distinct success, and should the weather be at all
favourable next year a very handsome dividend may
be evidently looked forward to from this department.
Viewing the rapid extension of launch work, the
company have acquired land near Chertsey, and are
now building hulls for their clients and for future
extensions of the Thames fleet. During the Naval
Exhibition a special feature was made of this branch
of the company's business, and an electric pinnace
of the man-of-war type was shown ecjui^^ed t^^^
40
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8, 1892.
for slin^ng in davits. This led to some impor-
tant business with foreign Governments, and three
sea-goin^ boats, 50ft. in length, were dispatched
to Russia. On Lake Windermere the company's
launches were usefully employed during the whole
of the season, and derived their power K>r charging
solely from a turbine, the first instance of the kind
known when water power was used for charging
boat accumulators. Arrangements have been con-
cluded with the Manchester Ship Canal Syndicate
by which a fleet of electric launches will run on part
of the Ship Canal early in the spring. The company
are about to erect an extensive electric copper-refining
plant on the bank of the Thames, whicn they hope
to have in fall operation about April next. The
company have given considerable attention to
electric lighting both in London and the provinces,
and have had a very satisfactory amount of work
for this department. The sale of djmamos and
motors for general purposes has largely increased,
and the company are confidently looking forward to
a further extension of the motor trade, with both
direct and alternating current, as the use of elec-
tricity from central stations becomes more largely
adopted.
Ernest Scott and Mountain, Close Works,
Newcastle-on-Tyne, have been extremely busy
during the whole of the past year in their
electrical department, which has very largely
developed since the firm commenced the manufac-
ture of electrical machinery and the supplying of
electric light installations. During the year the
firm have supplied for their various installations and
to trade customers at home and abroad over 150
dynamos of various sizes, most of them being of
large size, and amongst the important installations
which they have supplied are the following : The
large flour mills at Dunston-on-Tyne, which have
recently been erected by the Co-operative Wholesale
Society, have been lighted throughout by electricity,
the installation consisting of two Tyne compound
wound dynamos, each capable of running as a maxi-
mum 600 16-c.p. lamps, one Tyne compound-wound
dynamo capable of running 15 2,000-c.p. arc lamps, and
one Tyne compound-wound dynamo for the pilot
installation capable of running 100 16-c.p. lamps.
Throughout the mill there are installed about 600
16-c.p. lamps, this being the largest electric light
installation in any flour mill in the United Kingdom.
Since the starting of the installation in February
the plant has run without the slightest hitch of any
kind, and has given great satisfaction to the society.
Messrs. Arthur and Co.'s factory, at Anderston,
Glasgow, has also been lighted by the same firm,
this installation consisting of two Tyne compound-
wound dynamos capable of running 600 16-c.p. lamps
each, and 700 lamps and fittings fixed throughout
their new works. Messrs. Jones Bros, and Co.'s
mills at Leigh and Bedford, near Manchester, have
also been lighted. This installation consists of
two 600-light Tyne compound-wound dynamos and
800 16-c.p. lamps. The firm have lighted several
frozen meat stores in England and abroad ; amongst
these may be mentioned Messrs. J. Nelson and
Sons' stores at Bristol, the Northern Counties Ice
Company's stores, Newcastle-on-Tyne, and a large
cold meat store in Brazil. Amongst smaller
installations that the firm have carried out is the
lighting of Messrs. H. S. Edwards and Sons' dry
docks at North Shields; this installation was
specially designed to suit the firm's requirements,
and has been arranged so that petroleum oil
stesbmers can be repaired by means of the light,
^he lampB being lowered into the holds by means of
flexible cables strongly armoured. For Messrs.
Edwards's Shipbuilding Company several electric light
installations have been supplied for steamers, all of
these having given great satisfaction. An installation
has also just been completed for the Armagh Spinning
Company, Armagh, Ireland, this installation con-
sisting of one 400-light dynamo and 400 lamps and
fittings, and has given the Armagh Company every
satisfaction ; in fact, they are anticipating a con-
siderable extension amongst their other mills.
Amongst other work in hand, the firm advise us that
they are lighting the Fustian Machine Cutting
Companv's mills in Manchester, this company
having been formed to cut velvet by machinery,
instead of by hand as previously. The electric light
installation will consist of two 40-unit dynamos, each
capable of running 650 16-c.p. lamps, and a pilot
dynamo to run 100 16-c.p. lamps, about 1,000 incan-
descent lamps and fittings being installed throughout
the mill. Lord Ellesmere has also placed his
contract with the firm for the lighting of a
large private house and training establishment
he is building at Newmarket. A large installation
for Mr. Walter Jones, Cheshire, for the lighting
of his private house is just upon completion,
and a large installation for the Bolton Technical
School will be completed early next year. The
contract was placed with Messrs. Ernest Scott and
Mountain, Limited, for the technical school chiefly
on account of the great success of their installation
at the Bolton Evening News Printing Works, the
latter installation having been completed early in
the year. The firm inform us that they have
supplied a large number of dynamos and complete
installations for South Africa, where they have an
established office, and they anticipate doing a large
business in the future with this country as things
improve. The firm inform us that they are now
bringing out several new designs of electrical
pumping and mining plant for which there will
undoubtedly be a very large demand in this district,
and they expect to settle several important contracts
for this description of machinery. Amongst private
local installations completed during the past year
may be mentioned the lighting of the Union Club,
and, amongst others, the private houses of Messrs.
B. J. Sutherland, E. H. Haggie, W. Sharp, C. D.
Hill, J. Cameron Swan, C. M. Forster, E. B.
Duncan. Installations have also been completed
for G. and J. Stubley, Batley ; S. Knowles and Co.,
Bury; Henderson and Co., Durham; Paterson,
Elder, and Co. ; and Crann and Co., Leith ; Scott
and Co., Greenock ; Broadbent and Sons, Shires
and Co., Slaithwaite Spinning Company, Wood,
Sons, and North, Vickermau and Co., Eayner
and Co., Huddersfield ; Amos and Smith, Hull ;
Hutchinson and Co., Kirkcaldy ; Hennochsberg and
Ellis, Liverpool ; Manchester Ship Canal, Baxendale
and Co., Manchester; Eossendale and Co., Eawten-
stall ; Fairbrother and Co., Sheffield; A. and J.
Macnab, Edinburgh ; Eiver Wear Commissioners,
Sunderland; Arnold, Perrett, and Co., Gloucester ;
and the Argentine Meat Company, Brazil.
Newton Electrical Enginbehing Works. —
This firm commenced business in 1890. The
business has increased very rapidly, and as the firm
lays itself out to work for the trade, the rapid
increase has necessitated the building of much
larger works. During the past year orders for
automatic switches and transformers have come
freely to hand. An order has just been received for
a high-pressure continuous-current plant, consisting
of generator and transformer, to go to ItsJy. Among
other work, installations of lighting plant have been
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8, 1892.
41
executed for Major E. G. Godson, Wesfcwood Park,
Droitwich ; Kev. G. E. Hermon, Doublebois House,
Doublebois, Cornwall ; and in the factories of Messrs.
Candy and Co., Heathfield ; Mr. J. A. Sherrin,
Weymouth ; and Messrs. Simpson, Strickland, and
Co., Dartmouth. Mr. Newton was, if we remember
rightly, an exhibitor at the Bath and West of
England Show, and is one at the Crystal Palace
Exhibition.
Ransombs, Sims, and Jbffbries. — During the
past year Messrs. Bansomes, Sims, and Jefferies,
Liimited, of Ipswich, have been very busy in sup-
plying motors for electric light plants, many of
which have been for installations in Great Britain,
Prance, Spain, Germany, etc., as also for Australia,
India, and the East.
Joint-Stock Companies Wound Up in 1891. —
The following is a list of electrical companies which
were wound up during last year :
Voluntarily Wound up.
Jan. 1. — Woodhouse and Rawson Electric Manufacturing Com-
Dany.
Feb. 13. — Cadoean Electric Light Company.
Mar. 16.— The South of England Telephone Company.
Mar. 20. -Woodhouse and Rawson Electric Supply Com|»any of
Great Britain.
Apiil 17. — Electro-MetaUurgical Company.
April 22.— Simplex Electri(»d Syndicate.
April 23. — Electrical Engineering Corporation.
July 3. — Corinthian Electro-Meoical Battery Company.
Sept. 15. — Institute of Medical Electricity.
Sept. 30.— City cf London Electric Lighting (Pioneer) Company.
The winding up of the Cadogan Electric Light Company,
be^pin voluntarily, was ordered to be continued under the super-
vision of the Court.
CORRESPONDENCE
" One man's word U no man's word,
Justice needs that both be heard."
THE TAXATION OF MACHINERY.
Sir, — My committee, in conjunction with a large number
of public and representative bodies, have arranged to hold
a conference to consider the terms of the Bill proposed to
be introduced into the House of Commons in the ensuing
session to declare the law as to this question, and the
Council of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce have
kindly granted the use of their board-room on the 26th
January for the purpose.
If those of your readers who desire the success of this
Bill will communicate with me, I will forward them a draft
of the proposed Bill and any further information required.
The attendance is particularly desired of delegates from
the associations representing the various interests of users
of machinery. — Yours, etc.,
G. Humphreys Davies, Secretary.
National Society for the Exemption of Machinery from
Rating, 8, Laurence Pountney-hill, £. C, Jan. 5, 1892.
NOTE ON INTERFERENCE WITH ALTERNATING
CURRENTS.
Sir, — In the abstract of my paper before the Physical
Society on the 18th ult., printed in your last number, there
is an error I should like to correct.
It is stated with regard to the experiment described —
on the 100-kilowatt alternator, three-quarter mile of con-
centric cable, and 18-kilowatt transformer — that switching
on the concentric cable produced the same rise of pressure
at the alternator terminals whether the transformer at the
far end of the cable was loaded or not. The facts of the
case are as follows : The same rise of pressure was observed
at the alternator terminals on switching on the cable,
whether the transformer at the far end was connected to
the caUe or not, when the transformer secondary was
open or loaded only with about a dozen 60- watt lamps (a
very small load for an 18-kilowatt transformer). — Yours,
etc., Hamilton Kilgouu.
January 7th, 1892.
ELECTRIC LIGHT DECORATIVE FITTINGS.
BY SYDNEY F. WALKER.
Mrs. J. K H. Gordon has done good service by her
article in the Fortnightly Review a short time since dealing
with this subject.
Decoration is essentially the province of the artist, and
every lady is, or should bo, an artist in her own home.
Now, too, that it may fairly be claimed that electric house
lighting has come to stay, and that town after town is
laying down plant, tearing up its streets, and preparing a
hearty welcome for the new illuminant, surely it is time that
a new departure was made in the matter of the decorations
which form part of the fittings that carry the lights, what-
ever they may be. Has not the time arrived when the
electrical engineer and the artist should collaborate, to
produce something different from the stiff gas pendants and
brackets that have pained our eyes for so long 1
Of course there is still a good deal to be said for the old
forms of fittings, with their more or less concealed pipesi
and their ugly burners. As long as gas was the illuminant,
and gas-pipes were necessary, they must be worked into
the fittings of gas brackets and pendants. You might have
flying Cupids, or Grecian statuary, but you must have a pipe
concealed inside them, and the pipe must be visible, in some
form or other, where the outlet for the gas was placed.
Usually, too, the gas flame required shading, and the
globe that was used for the purpose must be supported in
some way.
As the gas burnt best, or at least gave the best light,
when escaping upwards, nearly all gas-fittings were so
arranged that the burners provided for the egress of the
gas, were pointing in a vertical direction.
The early typ>es of electrolietrs naturally took the form of
gas chandeliers and gas brackets, but with the burners
turned downwards. Now the question arises, can all this
be changed ? It is no longer necessary that the burner
shall point in any particular direction. The burner itself
is light, and therefore does not require the massive
apparatus for its support that are often found in use with
large gas chandeliers. Can the pipes be dispensed with, or
is it wise to retain them in all their hideousness as a
protection for the wires that are passed through them ?
It is certainly convenient to conceal the wires inside the
tubes of a chandelier, or electrolier, if the term be pre-
ferred ; but it would be better to have no pipes and no
chandeliers at alL Every time you thread a covered wire
through a pipe, especially when it is curved, as most of
them are, you run a great risk of damaging the insulation
of your wire j and it therefore becomes necessary to pay
for an increased cost of the wire to provide for this possi-
bility, as well as to pay for the expensive electrolier which
you no longer require. Flexible cords, well insulated in
the process of manufacture, run less risk of damage to
their insulation, and of consequent short circuits, when
hanging freely in air than when confined in a tube.
If this is correct, then the whole of our electric lighting
arrangements require remodelling.
But there is another point in which domestic lighting by
means of electricity differs very much from that by means
of gas. With the latter, except for street lighting, only
one power could be obtained from any single burner, unless
special arrangements were made, so that increased light was
always obtained by grouping a number of these burners
together in one chandelier, which was generally placed in
the centre of the room. Of late years, under the pressure
of the probable competition of the new illuminant, some-
thing has been done in the matter of distributing gas
burners round the walls of the room to be lighted ; but even
now, in large halls, illumination ^is usually by means of
a huge cluster of burners near the centre, supported by a
few smaller clusters in other parts. The brackets placed
round the rooms of private houses, too, perhaps do not
appear very ugly to us, because we are accustomed to them,
42
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8, 1892.
vitb other decorations they are certainly not
but viewed
picturesque.
With electricity, we are under no obligation to multiply
our btmpi. If we require the light of more than one in any
CLiticular place, we may have the light given by two
mps, or a hundred if we wish, concentrated in one lamp,
requiring only one set of fittings. Or we may have the
light distributed about the room, on its walla, or suspended
from the ceiling at various points, without the necesalty of
destroying any artistic effect that may have been designed.
Should not, therefore, a new line be struck out in this
matter, gradually absorbing tbe full adaptability of the
electric light to its surroundingsl Gras-burnere are in the
room, but they and tbeir supports are rarely of the room —
they are excrescences. May not electric lamps be arranged
to M of the room, to form part of its decorations, whether
the room be devoted to eating, to lounging, or to gossip ?
But there is another point that should be noticed, and that
is, placing the lamps where they can be of moat service.
With gas this is often a difficult matter, owing to the
necessity of providing for the harmless combustion of the
iUuminant. With electricity this necessity does not exist.
Mrs. Gordon gives a useful hint, amongst others, that
the lamp should not be placed so that it is reflected in a
mirror right into the eyes of whoever may be in front of it.
With gas it has often been very difficult to avoid this ; in
fact, candles by the side of a dressing-table or cbeval-glass
are almost a necessity where gae is employed. With the
electric light it should be a simple matter to accomplish
the usually awkward operation of viewing one's back hair —
a point that moat men will not trouble about, and that
designers of electric light fittings may be excused if they
do not fully appreciate, but which is of great import-
ance to ladies. Then what form shall the new style of
decorations Utke t Already something has been done in the
right direction. Lamps are shaded by leaves moulded in
thin metal of various hues, and are made to peep out of
ghelta and so on. But hero again,- tbe lamps are in the
leaves but not of them. The leaves are in the room but
not of the room. Leaves that could spring from no living
tree, and that appear to grow out of a brass tube, or from
nothing, are hardly artistic in the real sense of the term.
Why should not the lining, shall it be called, of a lady's
boudoir he composed of the spreading branches of a tree,
and the lamps either be the fruit of the tree in shape and
colour, or be concealed by its leaves 1 How deliciously
cool and soft to the eyes such an arrangement would be.
English plants offer numbers of subjects which, properly
wonced up, would lend themselves to this idea ; and in
tropical plants would be found more than every artist of
every nation could possibly utilise for centuries.
But the artist is by no means confined to the vegetable
world for subjects that will help him in this matter. The
uiimal world, in its various forms, offers an abundance.
What could he prettier, for instance, for a staircase light
than a kitten seated on the lower balustrade playing with
a ball, the ball being the lamp and the kitten one of those
wonderful creations in china that are to be seen in the
pott«ries. Classical and historical subjects also would lend
themselves very readily to the same object For a corner
light, for instance, or for some nook in a cosy drawing-
room, such a group as that of Eve and the serpent, with
our common mother in the act of plucking the forbidden
fruit, the fruit, of course, being the lamp, would be far
fihaster than anything to be seen in any drawingroom at
the present day. Kemembering, too, that the lamp may
take any form, it being merely a question of manufacture
to arrange the details, such a group as the death of Ciesar
at the hand of Brutus, the lamp in this case being the
dagger ; the death of Harold at the Battle of Hastings, the
lamp being the arrow, and numerous others, would well
adorn a library or a study. Flying Cupids would come in
well in certain cases, but they should be of china, and
should either form the lamps themselves, or be semi-
transparent shades for tbe lamps.
Doubtless the whole of the above sounds revolutionary,
but surely electricity is nothing if not revolutionary. It is
the miasion of tbe youngest of the sciences to ease the lot
of mankind, and to beautify the world, and every home in
fcbft world.
NEW SOUTH WALES ELECTRICAL CLUB.
INAUGURAL ADDRESS.
A meeting of the above society «hs held at the rooms of the
Engineering Asaociation uf New South Wales on Thursday
evening, the 12th November, 1891. Aft«r the usual prelimi-
ii»rj buainesB, tbe president, Mr. E. C. Cracknell, delivered his
inaugural address as folluwa :
Aa I have no doubt nearly all of you have read the early
history and prugress of magnetisiu and electricity, I propose
only tu deal with the earl; discoveries, the inventions, which
were the uutcome oS these discoveries, and the developments
which have reaultod from both, for the comfort and enjoyment
of the present generation. Little did the early luvailtt know
what their energy nod zeal in the cause of science, when they
were toiling with their aleiider nienns and more slender
resources, would bring about for the bcnelit of mankind. Tbe
names of theao illustriouB pioiiuui-s I shall allude to from time
tu time during this addresa, and I hiu aure you will endorse
every sentiment as welLmerited pmise for their eiertton and,
in most instances, poorly- reijuited labour*. You will find that the
world ia indebted tu the Chinese nut only for the diacovery, but
for utilising tbe n-.ugnet. It ia stated in Chinese history that
2,637 years b.c. Ho«n"-ti constructed a chariot upon which stood
a prominent female figure which indicated the four cardinal
points, which always turned to the aouth, no matter the direction
taken by the chariot, by which means he succeeded in capturing
tlie rebellious Prince Techi-yeou, the Emperor's troops who
were pursuing the Prince having loat their way through
heavy fogs on the plains of Tchou-tou, in Tartary, This,
nu doubt, was the first discovery of the magnetic needle, or
mariner's compass. TJie Greeka alao took credit that 1,000
years b.c. a Greek shepherd observed the attractive power of
the loadatoiie at Magnesia, in Lydia, his metallic crook having
been attracted by a rock now known iia native loadatone.
Shakespeare says in " Midsummer Night's Dream," "You draw
me, you hard-hearted adamant, and yet you draw not iron, for
my head is true ss stcol." Agamemnon, B.C. 1084, employed
A line of optical signals to advise his Queen of the fall of Troy.
So far 1 have merely alluded to the discovery of magnetism in
thf! early days and its application by the ancients, but I must
now refer to the first observation made by Thaiea, of Miletus,
that electricity was very strongly developed by friction in amber,
which very soon after astonished the Romans as well as the
(■rceka by its attractive power over light bodies, such as paper,
straw, and leaves, in the same way as the magnet attracts iron.
As Eghtning existed long before any of the dates mentioned, it
would not be fair to exclude such a powerful and subtle agent
from a paaaing remark. It haa t>cen stated that the Temple of
.Jerusalem was never atruck by lightning during a thousand
years, for the simple reason that a forest of gulden points
covered its roof, and that the roof was connected wiui the
caverns in an adjacent hill, in consequence of which the points
would act as conductors. This might be a new idea fur Prof.
Oliver Lodge, who would find that his bird-cage protection to
buildings from lightning vas as old as Moses, who iraa
bom 1,570 years b.c. A paaain}; allusion to ancient medical
treatment in a primitive way by electricity may not be
out of place. In the year .\.n. 20 it is recowed that
a freedman of Tiberius was cured of gout by shocks re-
ceived from the electric eel, and Fahie states that along the
banks of the Calabar River, in Africa, the natives employed
the electrical properties of the gymnotus for the cure of their
sick children. Yet it is within the recollection of most of us
that the whole medical profession, backed up by their leading
journals, scouted electricity ss u cunktive agent, as quackery
amounting to fraud, lion very different are their opinions at
the present day, since there is nu medical man amongst us who
would dare to tell his patients that he does not believe in elec-
tricity aa A curative agent 1 But to continue these early dis-
cuveries. Gure tells us that theRuiuans, a.ii. 410, were acquainted
with electric separation of metats~-that is, that metals acquire a
coat of copper on being immersed in a copper solution. That
most interesting little experiment known to us as " De la Rive's
battery" appears to date back as tar as a,d. 425, the only
difference being that a magnetic needle was attached to a piece
of cork floating in a vessel of water, which Bishop Severus
found would direct its polarity by placing a magnet under a
thick wooden table upim which the vessel was placed. As late
as 1260 Brunetto Latiul speaks of the mariner's compass as
likely to bo useful at sea ; but he adds, "No master mariner
dares bo use it, leat he should fall under the supposition that he is
a magician, iiur would sailors venture tu sea under his command if
he carried with him auch su instrument. " It waa not until 1269
that the variation, or the declination, of the compass was
understood. Marco Polo was evidently aware of the compass, as
during his voyage of discovery when he set out from Acre,
in 1271, and returned to Venice, in 1295, he was provided with
and understood the use of the magnetic needle, as on his
journey South he left the North Star out of sight, which in
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8, 1892.
43
northern latitudes was previouB to this time considered the
mariners' guidins star. We have been for many years under
the impression that Oersted was the first to give us the founda-
tion for the needle telegraph, but Mr. Mottelay, in his ** Chrono-
logical History of Electricity, Galvanism, Magnetism, etc.," has
turned up from the *' Encyclopaedia Britannica," under an
article on "Optics," by Prof. Stanley Jevons, that as far
back as a.d. 426 in '* Speculum Lapadium " there is the following
allusion : '* I donot fear ; with a long-absent friend, even though
he be confined in prison walls, we can communicate what wo
wish by means of two compass needles circumscribed with an
alphabet. " In the reign of Queen Elizabeth it appears that our
own oountnrman, Dr. Gilberte, of Colchester, physician to the
Queen, published a groat work for that date, in which he
enumerates all the substances which are susceptible to
electrical excitation, and makes use of the words electric
force, electric connection, and electric attraction. Now we
make a jump of about 60 years, and find that Otto Van
Gnericke, of Magdebuig, was the first to construct a practical
electrical machine, consisting of a globe of sulphur cast in a
glass sphere, which, when excited by its being revolved against
a rubber, emitted both sound and light. In 1720, to Stephen
Grey, a pensioner in the Charterhouse, is attributed the first
discovery of the principles of electric conduction, and its
insulation, as well as to the fact, but not to the principle, of
induction. Thus to Grey is due the credit of having laid the
foundation of electricity as a science. In 1729, Grey and
Wheeler succeeded in transmitting electricity through pack-
thread, supported by silken cords, a distance of 765ft., and
through wires a distance of 886ft. To Dufoy, in 1733, is
due the discovery of two kinds of electricity — viz., known as
the phenomenon of attraction and repulsion. Dufoy says there
are two kinds of electricity very different from one another —
vitreous or positive, and the other resinous or negative. The
first is that of glass, rock, precious stones, etc., and the other
that of amber, copal, gum lac, silk, thread, paper, and other
substances ; thus those which are vitreous repel all those that
are vitreous, and attract all those that are resinous. Dufoy
also observed that by repeating Grey's experiment, by
wetting the packthread he was enabled to convey a
current through 1,256ft. instead of 675ft. when dry. In
1746, the discovery of the Leyden jar was made. But it
appears rather doubtful whether, from an experiment made a
year earlier at Dantzic, that the latter place should not be
credited with the invention; but Sir William Watson, the
English scientist, is entitled to the credit of the double coating
of the jar, as well as the plus and minus of electricity. In the
same year the first glass-plate and cylinder machines were con-
structed. The next work in the early history of electricity was
Franklin's famous kite experiment, in 1752, in which he proved
that the lightning's flash was identical with the spark from a
Leyden jar. Galvani's classical experiment with the frog's leg,
in 1786, closely followed, in 1800, by Volta's publication at the
Royal Institution of his discovery of the voltaic battery, formed
on a basis on which was founded Oersted's important discovery,
in 1819, of the effect produced on a suspended magnet by an
adjacent current wire. Ampere's theory of electric dynamics,
Schweigger's invention of the galvanometer, and Seebeck's
discovery of thermo-electric currents, 1822 ; Ohm's law, laid
down, in 1827, and Arago's publication of his researches on the
rotaiy effect of adjacent current-carrying conductors, culmi-
nated in the magnificent researches and improvements of
Humphry Davy, and that truly great man Michael Faraday,
who in 1832 discovered the principle of electromagnetic induc-
tion, and who has laid down for us the law of electrostatics,
induction, electrolysis, and diamagnetism, and whose book on
** Experimental Research " is still a mine of wealth for the
inventor, and is only equalled in value by the works of
James Clerk Maxwell, of the value of which we are compara-
tively still ignorant, and in which many a clever man has
found his own discoveries clearly laid down, and worked
out mathematically many years previously by this wonderful
man. From this era electrical history may be said to have
ended and electrical science to have commenced, and I propose
now to go more deeply into the development of these branches
of the latter which are now in ordinary commercial and domestic
use. I will now ask you to follow me in a rapid glance at the
development of electricity as applied to telegraphy. In Holy
Writ we have a prophetic allusion to the telegraph in the thirty-
eighth chapter of Job, *' Canst thou send lightnings that they
may go and say unto thee * Here we are.' " In the family the
electric telegraph has become a '* household word," bringing
absent members into sympathetic contact of heart and mind in the
same instant of time. Of commerce it has become the very life-
blood ; it has gathered the civilised world together into instant
and direct intercourse ; a network of sympathetic intelligence
encircles the earth, and we feel it difficult to imagine it had not
always existed. Imagine it removed ! There is an ebb of
centories in the life of civilisation, and yet it is but little more
than 50 yoftrs since the first practical telegraph commenced to
work. The names of those who have from time to time essayed
to solve the problem of conveying information by means of
electricity are almost legion. Philosophers from very early
days had tried, and some met with a certain measure of
success. Amongst others in 1786, Sir William Watson passed
electricity through G, 000ft. of earth and water across the
Thames, and through 18,000ft. of wire suspended upon poles,
at Shooter's Hill. In the following year Franklin repeated
like experiments at Philadelphia. In 1774, Lesage, at
Geneva, reduced to practice a plan of telegraphing by static
electricity and pith balls, using 24 wires, one for each letter of
the alphabet. Lomond, in 1786, combined the signals of the
pith balls so as to diminish the number of wires, and in 1794
Betancourt worked a pith-ball telegraph from Madrid to
Aranjuez. In the same year Reusser proposed to make the
elecnc spark illuminate a letter formed of separate pieces of
tinfoil placed in the path of the discharge, using a separate wire
for eacn letter. We are now come to the present century,
when, in 1816, Ronalds worked his system of pith balls and
dials through eight miles of wire at Hammersmith. This was
the first and -last successful application of static electricity to
a telegraph. In 1830 Schelling invented his telegraph with
five needles, which up to that time was the most perfect
plan of a telegraph yet produced, and in 1835 he reduced it to a
single-needle arrangement, and exhibited the system at Bonn.
The history of the subject so far shows us that no single
individual can lav claim to the distinction of being the inventor
of the electric telegraph ; 1837 is the year of the first practical
electric telegraph, and it remained for Cooke and Wheatstone
in that year to first demonstrate the practicability of telegraphy
being worked on a commercial basis. It was once a popular
fallacy in England and elsewhere, that Cooke and Wheatstone
were the original inventors of the electric telegraph. It will
be seen, however, that the telegraph grew up little by little,
each inventor adding his little to advance it towards perfection.
Messrs. Cooke and Wheatstone were the first to establish a tele-
graph for practical purposes on a comparatively large scale, and
in which the public were more nearly concerned than in those
experiments in which the ends of wires were brought into labora-
tories and observatories. Morse and Steinheil have also been
thought by many to be the fathers of the telej^ph, but
whilst in 1837 a line had been built and was m working
order between London and Slough, it was not until 1844
that the first wire was built from Washington to Baltimore,
and a message, dictated by a Miss Ebs worth— which is still
preserved in the Hartford Museum — announced the existence
of a practical telegraph on the American continent. Wheat-
stone s first instruments had five needles, and as many lines
were required between each station to work the system. It
was, however, rapidly improved upon, and the number of
needles reduced to two and then to one. A return wire was,
however, required to complete the circuit. It is to Steinheil
that we are indebted for the discovery that the earth could be
utilised for the return circuit, a discovery which was of the
greatest service in further developing telegraphy. Bain, the
inventor of the chemical telegraph, also independently dis-
covered the principle somewhat later. From this time the
strides made in the science were marvellous. In America,
England, and the whole of Europe, inventors were busy at work,
and almost every year saw improvements and new systems
brought into use. To enumerate the different systems would
comprise an extensive catalogue, and it would take up too much
of our time to trace the electric telegraph through its many sub-
sequent stages of development. Printing, automatic, chemical,
harmonic, sound, and visual telegraphs followed each other in
bewildering confusion, each and all equally well adapted for the
special purpose for which they were designed. Indeed, perhaps
in no otner invention of modem times have so many different
methods been devised to obtain the same result, the amount of
ingenuity displayed by the different inventors of the many
systems of telegraphs, together with the manner in which well-
known scientific laws have been brought to bear in their con-
struction, will render the electric telegraph one of the greatest
monuments of the inventive genius of the present century.
Like most other branches of electrical science, telegraphy even
now can hardly be considered to be much more than in its
infancy. When it is remembered that a httle more than 50
years ago telegraphy was merely a scientific toy requiring many
wires to transmit a single wox^d, that the use of the earth as a
return circuit was not made use of practically, it will be seen
what strides have been made when one wire is now made to do
the work of two, four, six, and even more ; and when so much
has been done in so comparatively short a time, one begins to
think it quite within the bounds of possibility that the day will
yet come when no wire at all will be required, but the earth itself
will be made the means of communication from one end of the
world to the other. The first line of telegraph in Australia was
established in Victoria between Melbourne and Williamstown
in the year 1854 ; in South Australia, between Adelaide and
Port Adelaide and the Semaphore in the early part of 1856 ; in
New South Wales, between Sydney and Liverpool, and Sydney
and South Head in January, 1858. The first line opened for
intercolonial traffic between Sydney and Melbourne was in
November, 1858 ; these were speedily followed by linAs B^dsaAi^
44
TfiE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANtTAtlt 8, 189^.
to Bathurst and Sydney to Newcastle ; other lines soon became
necessary, and now we have in this colony alone no less than
23,500 miles of line in actual work. (The progress made in the
four principal colonies from 1860 to 1890 was demonstrated at
this stage by a tabulated statement, which showed the length
of line in use in each succeeding decade, the number of messages
transmitted, and the revenue received. Some details of the
amount of telegraphic business transacted in the United
Kingdom, France, and New South Wales were also given in a
form which admitted of ready comparison). I cannot pass from
this portion of my subject without referring especially to the
wonders of submarine telegraphy, and of the signal services
rendered to that particular branch by both Wheatstone and
Sir William Thomson. The greatest achievement of the
electric telegraph is unquestionaoly the instantaneous trans-
mission of intelligence across seas. The first cable of any
length was laid in 1850 between Dover and Calais, but it only
lasted one hour before breaking down. Several small cables
were laid during the next few years with more or less
success, until on August 5, 1858, the first Atlantic cable
was successfully laid, and congratulatory messages were for
the first time fiashed from the Old to the New VVorld. This
cable was faulty when laid, and gradually got worse, till three
weeks after its submersion it completely broke down. Sufiicient
success had, however, been achieved to warrant commercial men
taking the matter up, and when this is the case the ultimate
success of the undertaking may, I think, be generally looked
upon as moderately secure, for these gentlemen usually re<[uire
pretty good reasons before they ^* plank che dollar down," as
our American friends would say. Several Atlantic cables
followed, each showing a marked improvement both in electrical
and mechanical construction, till at the present day 11 cables
connect the American continent with Europe and England,
and there is hardly a corner of the globe which is not in direct
communication with the great centres of population. The
earlier instruments used for the working of the cables, as you
are no doubt aware, consisted of Thomson's reflecting galvano-
meter, the movement of the beam of light to the right or left of
zero indicating the dot and dash of the Morse code ; but very
soon Sir William Thomson brought out his syphon recorder, by
which means the nignals were recorded on an endless tape in
Morse characters. This instrument is alone a monument to its
inventor and a marvel of ingenuity. But great as have been
the wonders wrought by the telegraph, it remained for Bell
to astound the world by announcing the advent of the
telephone, for there is no doubt that to Bell must be
created the honour of first devising a telephone fitted
for practical use. As far back as 1667 we find sound
was transmitted to a distance by the aid of a wire or tight-
drawn string, but it was not till 1877 that electrical reproduc-
tion of speeches was rendered practicable. Page's discovery of
the emission of sounds by an electromagnet when subject to a
rapid succession of currents, which was termed the *' magnetic
tick," led to further experimenting on the part of Boursel, De
la Rive, and others, till in 1861 Philip Reis, of Fredrichsdorf,
invented an apparatus which reproduced musical sounds, but
was only able to convoy speech to a very limited extent. Reis
was well aware of the importance of his invention, which at the
time was treated as toy, and on one occasion remarked ** that
he had shown to the world a road to a great discovery, but left
it to others to follow it up. " Bell's first telephone consisted of
a stave harmonica fastened to the poles of a permanent magnet
with an electromagnet placed in front. The expense of such
an apparatus prevented Bell from developing and perfecting
the idea. HLb second telephone was the next instrument
brought out, and for which a patent was taken out early in
1876. About the same time Elisha Gray also requested a patent
for his telephone. A dispute arose between Bell and Gray
about the patent of the vibrating membrane, which was decided
in favour of Bell. The third telephone of Bell's was the
form exhibited at the Philadelphia Exhibition in 1876,
and this was the instrument which so much astonished
Sir W. Thomson when he first saw it. The first
practical magnetic telephone was exhibited early in 1877
m Salem, Massachusetts, by Bell, when a speech delivered
in Boston was heard by an audience in Salem. Before
the telephone could be brought to the commercial importance
that it at present enjoys there was still a problem to be solved,
the solution of which was effected by Hughes's discovery of the
microphone ; for although the principle involved in the micro-
phone had been announced years before by Du Moncel, Hughes
was the first to systematical y investigate the subject, but
Edison appears to have been the first to construct a carbon
transmitter in 1878. The difference between Edison's carbon
transmitters and Hughes's microphone, in its simple form,
was very slight, the object of both being to amplify
the currents. "The effect of the discovery of the micro-
phone upon telephony was incalculable, and in the same
wa^ as all the numerous magnetic telephones are, more or less,
imitations of Bell's original telephone, so all carbon transmitters
are modifications of Hughes's invention. The number of these
' nitations is legion ; many of them are without practical value,
whilst others have given in practice superior results to the
inventor's apparatus by enabling the listener to hear the words
more distinctly. I will not inflict you with anything like an
enumeration of the many different patterns of telephones which
have been offered to the public since Bell's first discovery,
or attempt to describe even the more salient points of
difference between them. The principle involved in one and
all is the same. The theory of the telephone has given rise to
much controversy, and it will probably continue to be an inte-
resting subject for discussion. Several explanations have
been given to account for the actions and reactions which take
place Detweon the diaphragms of the transmitter and receiver.
Some hold that the currents developed in a Bell telephone
are much too feeble to account for the effects produced
in the diaphragms of the receiver, if these effects are to be
attributed to attraction pure and simple, and that molecular dis-
turbances in the mass of the bar bear an important part in
causing the vibration in the diaphragm. Whether this be so,
or whatever the cause of the action may be, the instrument
remains marvellous in its simplicity and astounding in its
results. One of the latest applications of the telephone is that
in which it is used as a telegraph receiver — in Mr. Langdon
Da vies 's system, and to which he has given the name of *^ The
Phonophore. " Unlike in principle as are telephone and the ordi-
nary Morse systems of telegraphy, yet by means of this ingenious
instrument Mr. Davies has devised a means whereby both the
telephone and the Morse are worked simultaneously on the one
wire. The arrangement is likely to be largely used, and this
is another instance of the inventive genius of the age. With
the introduction of the telephone a world of research has been
opened up, of the existence of which we were previously
unaware. Hughes's induction balance has applied the telephone
to a field of investigation of which we have hitherto been
ignorant. Does it not seem wonderful, for instance, that we
should be able to detect internal flaws in the mass of an iron rail,
or in the case of a steel shell? And yet by an ingenious applica-
tion of Hughes's induction balance in an instrument to which has
been given the name of the ^^Schiseophone," it is now possible to
pick out, by the aid of the telephone, flaws in a mass of metal
which defy detection by any other means. Another appliance
which depends for its action upon the principle of the induction
balance is Captain M'Evoy's torpedo detector. As its name
implies, it is designed for use in searching for submarine mines
in harbours and channels. One portion of the balance, enclosed
in a metal sinker, is attached to a small cable which is in con-
nection with the telephonic portion of the apparatus in a boat.
The sinker is dragged along the bottom of the channel where
mines are suspected to have been laid. No sound is audible
until the sinker reaches the vicinity of a mine, when a buzzing
noise is heard in the telephone, which gradually increases as
the mine is approached, and is loudest when it is touched.
Medical science has also made use of the balance, and, as you
will well remember, such an instrument was used in the case
of the late President Garfield, by Prof. Graham Bell, to dis-
cover the position of the bullet. It is not to be wondered at that
an instrument of such marvellous sensitiveness as the telephone
should have been made use of to enable the faintest pulsation of
the heart, of the pulse, and the arteries to be heard, and even
to detect the normal muscular sound, and the characteristic
rumbling noise when contraction of the muscles take place. I
cannot leave this portion of my subject without alluding to the
phenomenal commercial development of the telephone that has
taken place within the last few years. In the arrangement of
a telephone exchange every minute detail has been carefully
thought out and provided for, and the general public have little
idea of the mechanism ret^uired to enable *^ Smith " to ring up
and talk to** Jones." The distance limit of telephonic com-
munication is gradually being extended. New York has spoken
to Chicago over 1,000 miles of wire, and the recent connection
of London to Paris brings to mind Proctor's prediction ** that a
whisper would ere long pass beneath the Atlantic Ocean which
none of the waves would drown." W^e are still as far from this
imaginary consummation, bur a beginning has been made. The
rapid development of the telephone since its discovery is
unique in the annals of science ; it shows the increasing
importance of science for the progress of civilisation and
the immense import of Prof. Graham Bell's discovery.
Every day witnesses new experiments, new problems for the
solution of which the telephone affords a means of investiga-
tion. But new difficulties also arise from its application, the
most serious of which is the well-known induction trouble — a
difficulty of so serious a nature as at one time to threaten the
development of the system. This trouble has been to a certain
extent overcome by different means, but not in an altogether
satisfactory manner ; and as the spread of cables and leads
carrying powerful currents required for motive power and
lighting purposes increases, so does the necessity for united
action become more apparent, if the greattsst amount of good
is to be obtained from each and all of the different modern
applications of electricity. The natural sequence to the dis-
covery of an instrument enabling us to detect sounds otherwise
inaudible, was an instrument to enable us to record those
tHE EL^CtiltClAL ENGlNfiEU, JaWARY 8, 18§2.
4S
Bomids* Such an apparatus was supplied by Edison when, in
1877, he introduced the phonograph, which created considerable
aeusation at the time. I mention the phonograph because of
ita close relationship to the telephone, not that electricity is
concerned in its action, except in so far as the motive power is
concerned, but also because it proves that the oscillations of a
tympanum, like the disc of a telephone, are capable of pro-
ducing all the effects of sound. There are something like 8,000
of these instruments at present in use in America, and it has
even reached the "penny-in-the-slot" stage of existence, when
music, song, and speech may be laid on tap, and, like a ** Joe
Miller*' jest-book, tell the latest as well as the oldest good
Btory. We have now to turn our attention to a branch of
electrical engineering which has been even more rapid
in its development and more universal in its use than
almost any other. I refer, of course, to electric lighting
and the use of electricity as a motive power. In this, as
in other branches, there are many claimants for the honour of
having been the first to make electric lighting a commercial
success, and in this also we must finally come to the conclusion
that the whole edifice has been built up, each inventor and
discoverer depending for his ultimate result upon an experi-
ment performed by some earlier investigator. 1 think we may
fairly consider Faraday's discovery in 1§32 of the principle of
electromagnetic induction as being the foundation of modem
commercial electric lighting, followed so quickly in 1833 by
Pixii's magneto machine, which again was rapidly improved
upon by Clarke, whose machine is still in common use for
medical coils. The next notable incident was the invention by
Dr. Werner Siemens, in 1857, of the well-known **H" arma-
ture, which was constructed of this shape so that the coils might
revolve in the most powerful part of the magnetic field — a con-
siderable advance on the instruments of Pixii and Clarke, in
which the coils merely moved in front of the poles of the
magnet. Next we have Wilde's machine, in which a small
auxiliary magneto machine was used to produce a current for
the purpose of exciting the fixed magnets of a larger machine
with electromagnets mstead of permanent magnets. And
finally, we come to the true dynamo-electric principle. Hjorth
in 18bB4 took out a patent for a machine which was near
in principle to the modem machine ; in it he had both perma-
nent magnets and electromagnets and one armature. About
the end of the year 1866 and the beginning of 1867 we find
three claimants for the invention of the modern dynamo. Mr.
S. A. Varley, who filed his provisional specification on December
24, 1866 ; and in February, 1867, Dr. C. W. Siemens and
Sir Charles Wheatstone both annoimced the discovery indepen-
dently at the same meeting of the Royal Society. In 18i60 a
further advance was made by Dr. Pacinotti, of the University
of Pisa, who invented the ring tjrpe of armature. Curiously
enough, his original machine, whicn was invented as a motor,
had electromagnets for field magnets ; and in his description
Pacinotti states that the machine may be used to generate a
current by substituting permanent magnets for electromagnets
for the field. It was not until 1871 that Gramme invented his
well-known ring form of armature, which still is used, with slight
modifications, in most modern dynamos, such as the Manchester,
Crompton, Paterson and Cooper, Brush-Victoria, and Hoc-
hausen. The drum armature, which with various modifications
we see used in the Siemens, Edison, and Weston machines, was
invented by Von Hefner-Alteneck in the following year.
Having followed the discovery of the dynamo-electric machine,
we must retrace our steps to the year 1810, when Davy showed
an arc light at the Royal Institution, using a battery of some
2,000 cells for the purpose. From this time until the discovery
of the dynamo but little development took place owing to the
excesnye cost of producing sufficient current by means of
batteries. In 1857 Serrin, and in 1858 Foucault, produced arc
lamps in which the adjustment of the carbons was brought
about automatically ; but no real advance appears to have been
made until 1876, when the Jablochkoff candle was invented, and
with the help of the dynamo came into fairly extensive use for
a time, though in 1858 an arc light driven by a Holmes magneto
machine was installed in the South Foreland, and in 1862 in
the Dunseness lighthouses. The Jablochkoff candle was soon
discarded for the self -regulating arc lamp, of which those in most
extensive use at present are the Brockie-Pell and Thomson-
Houston. Useful as the arc lamp is for lighting streets, open
spaces, and large buildings, it is entirely unfit for general
domestic illumination, and consequently the attention of many
inventors was drawn to the necessity of what at that time was
termed **the subdivision of the electric light." At a very
early period it was p^eived that for this purpose the most
promising method was the heating to incandescence of a con-
tinuous conductor, and platinum, and similar metals having a
high melting point, were the first substances to be experimented
with. We find, in 1845, an American named Starr took out a
patent for a carbon lamp sealed into the vacuum chamber of a
barometer tube. Then, in 1848, W. E. Staite took out a patent
for making electric lamps of iridium, shaped in a horseshoe
form. Up to 1878 very little improvement was made. In that
year Sawyer and Man made their first lamp of carbonised
paper. Edison, who in the following year took out patents,
not only for an incandescent lamp, but for a system of electric
lighting, is generally credited with having made electric lighting
commercially successful. But I think that you will agree with
me that due credit should be giveti to the other investi^tors in
the same line of research — such as Sawyer and Man, Swan,
Maxim, and Lane Fox, more especially to Swan, and
Sawyer and Man. In 1883 a great advance was made by
Gaulard and Gibbs, in the invention uf their high-tension
alternate-current transformer, which enabled electricity to be
transmitted to much greater distances than could ever be achieved
by continuous currents, a notable instance of which is the
present experiment of transmitting power from Lauffen to
Frankfort, a distance of over 100 miles, by means of high-
tension alternating currents. The transformer is a direct
descendant of the induction coil as first used by Faraday, and
afterwards improved by Rhumkorff. As in former cases,
Gaulard and Gibb's transformer has received many improve-
ments at the hands of such men as Mordey, Zipernowski,
Ferranti, Kapp, and others. The first central station in
London, known as the Grosvenor Gallety Station, used
Gaulard and Gibbs's transformers in 1885, and was the fore-
runner of the now famous Deptford station, constructed to
use a pressure of 10,000 volts. For another important
discovery in connection with electrical engineering, we must
go back again to Plant^'s discovery, in 1859, and Faure's
subsequent improvement, in 1880, of tne secondary battery. In
1888, there were in England but eight central stations,
with a total of 27,000 incandescent lamps in use. At
the end of 1890 there were 48 stations, with a total of about
530,000 incandescent lamps in use, and a total ultimate pro-
vision for over a million. In America we find a more wide-
spread use of electricity as an illuminant, as at the end of 1888
we find some 204 towns using an aggregate of over 5,000 arc
lamps and 250,000 incandescent ; in January of the present
year there were 1,674 central stations at work, with an aggregate
of over a million incandescent and over 30,000 arc lamps in use.
I do not see that we are going ahead quite so fast in either
Great Britain, Europe, or Australia. Still another modern
development is the use of electricity as a motive power. As
far back as 1830 Prof. Negro, of Padua, constructed an
electric motor, using permanent and electro magnets ; Jacobi,
in 1834, used an electromotor, consisting entirely of electro-
magnets, to propel a boat on the Neva ; in 1835 Stratingh and
Becker, of Gruningen, and Botto, of Turin, constructed primi
tive electric cars, and Thomas Davenport, of Brandon, U.S.A.,
built a small circular railway at Springfield, Massachusetts ;
and amongst these early pioneers we must also mention
Davidson, a Scotchman, who in 1838 built an electric car
weighing five tons, with which he obtained a speed of four
miles an hour. Elias in 1842 constructed a motor, having a
Pacinotti ring for its armature, and we find various forms of
motors invented by Froment, Hjorth, Page, Farmer, and
others, with very little commercial advance, mitil the invention
of the dynamo and the discovery of its reversibility. The first
successful experiment was made with the electric railway
exhibited by Siemens at the Berlin Exhibition in 1879. In
England there is the underground City and South London Rail-
way ; and several others, besides the extension from Stockwell
to Clapham underground, and the Liverpool Overhead, and
others in progress ; also many on the Continent of Europe.
The present period has been, I think, very properly termed
the '* electric age." Incandescent and arc lamps greet us
at every turn ; no business ofiice is now complete without
its telephone, the sending of telegrams or cablegrams is
of no more import nowadays than posting a letter, electric
bells are in every modern-built house, a ride on a car driven by
electricity is no longer an event to be remembered, and we see
and hear of electric motors being used for all manner of
purposes in many different trades ; for driving lathes, sewing
machines, printing presses, fans, pumps, lawn-mowers, for
blowing organs, heating railway carriages, for mining drills and
coal-cutters, riveting machines, welding, and a host of other
purposes far too numerous for me to mention here. The recent
legalisation in the United Kingdom of the volt, ohm, and
ampere is in itself a distinct proof of the familiarity with
which electrical matters are treated in modem times. I have
spoken of the past and present ; I feel that I shall have
hardly completed my task without taking a peep into the future.
We read of the phonograph, telephone, telegraph, etc.,
having been foretold or prophesied long ago ; without, perhaps,
going so far as to make such distinct prophetic utterance,
we can at least imagine a time not very far distant when the
telephone will become universal, not only commerciallv but
domestically, when there will be intercolonial and even mter-
national exchanges, and the telegram and cablegram a thing of
the past ; when at the same we are speaking through the
telephone from here, perhaps to London, we shall at the same
time see the form and face of the listener at the other end. Do
not laugh, gentlemen ; you would have laughed 100 years ago
if you had been told what we should possess in the way of
scientific inventions now. When we smdl have air and water
46
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8, 1892.
ships propelled by electricity generated by a thermo-batteiy,
burning coal instead of decomposing ssinc ; a time when electri-
city is the only motive power in existence ; and when, by the
development of Tesla's experiments, instead of lighting our rooms
by points of light we sh^ have the whole of the atmosphere in
a state of luminosity ; when, instead of suffering from idtemate
droughts and floods, we shall be able to regulate and control
the rainfall by means of the electric discharge — a period in
which fogs will be dispersed electrically immediately on forma-
tion, and in which we shall be able to cure all disease by the
aid of this potent agent, when electricity has been applied to
such an extent in warfare that war without annihilation becomes
impossible, and we have obtained the millennium of peace. In
this address I have endeavoured to place before you some of the
more remarkable developments of electrical science from the
early philosophical experiments to the practical realisation of
those experunents by modem inventors, who have adapted
them to the requirements and comfort of the present age, and I
have even attempted to see even the further developments
which have yet to be made. This I have endeavoured to do
without going into those minor details which are familiar to
most of you, and which would extend this paper to a weari-
some length. The world has seldom seen such a period of
scientific unrest as the last 20 years, both in America and Europe,
but of the multitude of discoveries and inventions which have
been the product of that period, there are few which have been
made by mathematical leaders. Most of them may be regarded
as the results of investigation not of the learned few, but of the
fortunate few of the comparatively unlearned many.
At the conclusion of the speech a vote of thanks was accorded
to Mr. Cracknell, on the motion of Mr. H. H. Kingsbury,
seconded by Captain F. C. Rowan, and the proceedings closed.
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
EDINBURGH ELECTRIC SUPPLY CORPORATION.
The second annual general meeting of the shareholders of this
Corporation was held recently in 17, St. Andrew-square, Edin-
banrh. Mr. Walter Berry, of Glenstriven, chairman, presided.
The report stated that there were now 206 shareholders enrolled
on the uat, amongst whom were a large number of prominent
citizens of Edinburgh and Leith, representing a privately sub-
scribed capital of £31,175, which places the Corporation in a very
strong position locally, and the share Ust was daily becoming
more influential. Reference was made to the negotiations
entered into by the Directors with the Town Councu, setting
forth the position of the Company and the advantages that
would result to the city were an arrangement arrived at
whereby the lighting of the compulsory area comprised in
the provisional order should be undertaken bv it. The
subject, the report continued, must shortly be considered by the
Councillors, as they obtained the Royal assent to their provisional
order in the beginning of last July, from which date they had only
three years to complete this work within the compulsory area.
Meantime, the Directors had collected a large mass of information
and statistics connected with similar works, finished and in
progress, throughout the United Kingdom and elsewhere, which
would enable them to tender for the electric lighting of the city,
should the Town Council decide on delegating Sieir powers to the
Company. In the meantime the shareholders had incurred no
liability with regard to the expenses, nor would they do so unless
the desired contract was obtained from the Council, when the
shares would be issued to the public, and the business of the
Corporation be at once proceeded with.
The diAlrman, in moving the adoption of the report, said he
had to express the regret the Directors felt in being still unable to
intimate any progress towards the definite fulfilment of the object
for which tne Company was formed, but no one was to blame for
that. Without being too pressing, the Directors had not failed to
urge their claims on the Town Cx>uncil, and he could not doubt
that these would be favourably considered when the Council was
in a position to come to a decision. They must, of course, recognise
that their representatives in the Council might decide that in the
public interest it would be preferable for them to undertake
the work themselves, and he had no doubt that should they so
decide, their decision would be arrived at on sufficient grounds. In
that case the existence of their Corporation would terminate, and the
ftreliminary subscriptions of the shareholders would be returned in
nil. As they wore aware, the reasons why this Company was
or^inally formed were— first, that it was deemed that there was
sufficient business capacity in Edinburgh to carry out the electric
lighting of our city, and that there was sufficient public spirit to
form a local company for that object ; secondly, that they objected
very strongly to be tied to any one system. They knew that the
Company against which they appeared as competitors was limited
to its own special method, against which he had not one word to say.
It mieht still prove the best, but they thought it well worth the
trouble involved to attempt to keep the city tree to adopt the best
obtainable. Therefore, if the city entrusted the electric lighting
of Edinburgh to their Compomr, they should do their best to keep
in the front rank, both scientin<»dly and practically. Great strides
had been made within the last year in electric lighting. The
"•^eoent Frankfort Exhibition had brought many useful adaptations
and inventions before the public, and although it would be foolish
not to recognise that many more would be aiscovered, they could
not wait indefinitely for that. They had, at any rate, the advan-
tage of studying many failures and mistakes, and would profit by
them. He felt confident that if the Company were entrusted with
the work it would be done as well as the present position of the
science would admit. They were naturally anxious to have the
business, but the shareholders might rest assured that although
their Directors would not be gr^dy for profit, they would not
undertake any contract which did not in their view leave a good
margin for interest and risk.
Mr. George Barolay said be had great pleasure in seconding
the adoption of the report, because he thought both the report
and the Chairman's remarks indicated that the Directors had been
proceeding on wise and prudent lines, and that being so there was
good reason to believe that should the Corporation eventually
succeed in getting the concession from the city on fair and reason-
able terms, the same Directors would carry out the enterprise to a
successful termination.
The report was adopted unanimously, and on the motion of Sir
Thomas Clark a vote of thanks was ptassed to the Chairman.
MUTUAL TELEPHONE COMPANY.
Directors: A. D. Provand, M.P., London, chairman; H. T.
Gaddum, J. P., Manchester; W. M. Mollison, Manchester;
Councillor J. \V. Southern, J. P., Manchester ; John Blyth, Liver-
pool; James R. Paton, Liverpool. A. R. Bennett, M.I.E.E.,
general mana«;er. J. Vincent Swindells, secretary.
Report of the Directors for the period ending 31st October, 1891,
presented to the shareholders at an ordinary general meeting of
the Company, held at the Memorial Hall, ^bert-square, Man-
chester, on Thursday, the 31st ult.
The Directors have the pleasure of submitting to the share-
holders their first report and statement of accounts, made up to
the 31st day of October, 1891. The accounts do not represent an
ordinary working period, but must be submitted in order to con-
form to the requirements of the articles of association. The capital
account shows that from the formation of the Company to the 31st
October, 1891, the sum of £21,539. 28. fid. has been expended on
the construction of the Company's exchange system in Manchester,
and that £1,574. 16s. 8d. has been expended in other places where
it is proposed to open exchanges. The revenue account represents
only a working period of four months — viz., from July 1st to
October 31st, 1891, the former being the date from which, with
the exeception of £191. 15s. previously charged, the Company
commenced to earn revenue. This account shows a gross rental
of £3,906. 5s., of which £1,145. Is. is applicable to this period,
and £2,761. 4s. has been carried forward to next account as repre-
senting rentals received in advance for periods extending beyond
31st October, 1891. The amount at the credit of the account is
£378. lis. 7d., which the Directors propose to carry forward. The
business of the Company is proceeding in a very satisfactory
manner. At the date of this report, 840 instruments are in
connection with the Company's exchange. This leaves a large
number of applicants still to be join^ up, while additional
applications are being received daily. Attention is also being
given to the work of connecting bv trunk wires the various
manufacturing centres around Mancnester, and your Directors
hope before long to offer to the subscribers these facilities.
Arrangements have been made to open call-boxes on the main
boards of the Royal Exchange, and these will shortly be ready for
the use of subscribers to the Companv's system The Directors
feel that they may congratulate the shareholders upon the
Company having already proved itself an accomplished success,
both in respect of the advantage of the metallic circuit (t.e., the
double wiie), as affording clearness of speech, and as confirming
the views held by the promoters of the Company that a telephone
service, worked with the most modern improvements, can be
supplied at rates much below those hitherto charged. The retiring
Directors are Messrs. Provand and Southern, who. being eligible,
offer themselves for re-election. The auditors, Messrs. Thomas,
Wade, Guthrie, and Co. , also retire, and are eligible for re-election,
•
Revenue Account, covering the working period of four
MONTHS ending October 31 ST, 1891.
Dr. £ s. d
Rents, rates, insurance, and wayleaves 202 4 11
Working expenses —
Including expenses of management, ofiice salaries
and expenses, and operators' wages 474 10 7
Repairs to lines and instruments 42 14 7
Balance carried forward 378 11 7
£1,098 1 8
Cr. £ s. d. £ R. d.
Rentals —
Received and outstanding 3,906 5 0
Less proportion in respect of periods
extending beyond October 31,
1891 2,761 4 0
£1,145 1 0
Deduct —
Post Office royalties 107 18 6
1,037 2 6
Bank interest 60 19 2
£1,098 I 8
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8, 1892.
47
Baulncs-shset, October 31, 1891.
Dr. £ 8. d. £ B. d.
CoDBtruction account —
Amotint expended since the com«
mencement of the Company on
the construction of the exchange
and private lines and other capi^
chai^ 20,359 16 9
Preliminary and formation ex-
penses 1,179 6 9
21,539 2 6
Amount in suspense for legal and professional
charges 636 19 8
Preliminary expenses in districts where it is pro-
posed to open exchanges 1,574 16 8
Stores, apparatus, tools, etc ... 6,105 6 1
Office furniture . 300 12 11
Sundry debtors (for outstanding rentals) 538 12 6
Poet OfBce royalties and other payments in advance 329 8 10
Cash in bank and in hand 948 6 8
£31,973 5 10
Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d.
Capital, £350.000—
Present issue 4,092 shares of £10
each with £6 per share paid 24,552 0 0
Less arrears of calls 1,332 0 0
23.220 0 0
Add amount paid in advance of
calls 556 0 0
23,776 0 0
Sundry creditors 5,057 10 3
Proportion of rentals for periods beyond October 31,
1891, as per revenue account 2,761 4 0
Balance at credit of revenue account «S78 11 7
£31,973 5 10
The ordinary meeting of the Company was held at Manchester
on the 3l8t ult. , Mr. Provand occupying the chair.
The CluUmuui, in a few words, referred to the work they had
accomplished in the short period since they began operations, and
proposisd the adoption of the report and accounts.
This was duly seconded, and carried unanimously, Beveral
shareholders expressing gratification at the satisfactory state of
the Company.
The retiring directors, Messrs. Provand and Southern, as well
as the auditors, Messrs. Wade, Guthrie, and Co., having been
re-elected, the proceedings closed with a hearty vote of thanks to
the Chairman and Board.
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
Central Sleetrloal Company, Limited.— Registered by T. T.
Hull, 22, Chancery-hine, W.C, with a capital of £50,000 in £1
shares — 5,000 preference and 45,000 ordinary. Object : to carry
into effect an agreement expressed to be made between Knud
Sande of the one part and this Company of the other part, and
generally to carry on business as electricians, mechanical engi-
neers, suppliers of electricity for the purposes of heat, lignt,
motive power, or otherwise, and manufacturers of and dealers in
all apparatus and things required for or capable of being used in
connection with the generation, distribution, supply, accumula-
tion, and employment of electricity ; to construct, lay down,
establish, fix, ana carrv out ^1 necessary cables, wires, lines, accu-
mulators, dynamos, batteries, lamps, meters, works, and to
generate, accumulate, distribute, and supply electricity, and to
light streets, markets, houses, buildings, and places, both public
and private. The first subscribers are :
Shares.
P. H. H. Nickson, 221, Gipsy-road, West Norwood 1
H. W. Britt, Boumeside, Weybridge 1
T. Hallamore, 340. Old Broad-street, E.C 1
J. P. O'Donnell, 2, Great George-street, London 1
K. Sande, 47 and 48, Broad-street-avenue, E.C 1
W. Woodhead, 4, Station-buildings, West-green, Tottenham... 1
H. B. Thurston, 50, Norwood-road, Heme Hill 1
There shall not be less than three nor more than seven Directors ;
the first are to be appointed by the signatories to the memorandum
of association. Qualification, £100. Remuneration, £100 per
annum each, with an additional 10 per cent, of the net profits,
divisible as to the Utter.
Xelgldtty Beetrienl Engineering Company, Limited.— Regis-
tered by Ullathome, Currey, and Villiers 1, Field-court, Gray's-
inn, W.C, with a capiUl of £10,000 in £1 shares. Object : to
ado^ and carry into enect an agreement, made October 27, between
H. Boardman of the first part, I. Ickringill of the second part, C.
J. Oamett of the third part, A. Moore of the fourth part, C. H.
Seed of the fifth part, and S. Hey of the sixth part, for the acquisi-
tion of the business of C. J. Gamett, now carried on at South-
itreet, Kei^hlev, and generally to carry on business as electrical
engineera m all its branches. Registered without articles of
•Mooiatloq.
BUSINESS NOTES.
Great Nortliem Telegmpli Company. — The receipts for the
month of December were £22,400.
Xastem Tetegraph Company. — The receipts for December
were £55 830, as against £58,058 for the same period of 1890, a
decrease of £2,228.
Bastem Bztenaion Telegraph Company.— The receipts for
December amounted to £38,898, as against £43,482 in the corre-
sponding period, showing a decrease of £4,584.
City and Sonth IfOndon Railway. — The receipts for the week
ending January 3, 1892, were £878, as against £805 for the
corresponding week last year, showing an increase of £73, and
an increase of £7 as compared with the receipts for the week
ending December 27, 1891.
The Direct United States Cable Company recommend an
interim dividend of 3s. fid. per share, tax free, being at the rate of
Si per cent, per annum, for the quarter ending December 31st,
1891, payable on the 23rd inst. £5,000 has been placed to the
reserve fund, and £4,982 carried forward.
Partnership. — Mr. Smeeton and Mr. Page have entered into
partnership, trading as Messrs. Smeeton and Page, at 63, Queen
Victoria-street, E.C. Mr. Smeeton was a pupil of Messrs. Goolden
and Trotter's, and has since acted as engineer to the General
Electric Company on their foreign installations. Mr. Page was
manager of the same firm's supply department.
Change of Address. — Mr. G. E. B. Pritchett, of 1, Hanway-
place, Oxford -street. W., informs us that he has removed to 31,
Sobo'Square, W., and that he has taken his brother, Mr. T. W.
Pritchett, late of the Metropolitan Electric Supply Company, into
partnership. In future the business will be carried on at the
above address under the title of Pritchett Bros.
Companies Registered daring December.— The following
electrical companies were registered during the past month :
California Gas, Water, and Electric Light Syndicate,
Limited. £1 shares £2,000
Chloride Electrical Storage Syndicate, Limited, £1 shares 262,500
Central Electrical Company, Limited , £ 1 shares 50,000
Keighley Electrical Engineering Company, Limited, £1
shares 10,000
Lightning^ Limited, £1 shares 3,000
Mountain's Wire Manufacturing Company, Limited, £5
shares 25,000
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1891-92.
Deckmbek 21.
22,284. An improved devioe for suspending electric oaUes or
oonduotors. Henry Edmunds, 47, Lincoln's-inn-fields,
London.
22,301. An improved method of lighting railway oarriages bgr
eleotrioity. Sarah Jane Rollason, 50, Goldhurst- terrace,
South Hampstead, London.
22,304. Improvements in means of eleotrio transmission for
telegraphio, telephonio, and other purposes. SUvanus
Phillips Thompson, the Technical College, Leonard-street,
Finsbury, London.
22,316. Improvements in eleotrioal distribution and trans*
formers therefor. Joseph Devonport Finney Andrews^
28, Southampton-buildings, London.
22,326. Improvements in Wheatstono bridge apparatus and in
the adaptation of the same to the measurement of
temperatures, eleotrio, potential, and ourrent. Hugh
Longbourne Callendar, 24, Southampton-buildings,
London.
22,339 Improvements in primary and secondary batteries.
Nicholas Wiadimiroff, 4, South-street, Finsbury, London.
December 22.
22,.352. Improvements in eleotrio switohes. Gwynne Ernest
Painter, 11, Wellington-street, Strand, London. (Com-
plete specification. )
22,360. An arrangement for securing good oontaet in eleotrio
switohes, and for avoiding dead stops in their action.
Joseph Jackson, 21, Fernhead-road, Paddington, London.
22,370. Improvements in nautioal signals or sea telephones.
Ernest Huber, Frederick Jacob Kneuper, and James
Robert Da vies, 321, High Holborn, London. (Complete
specification.)
22.375. Improvements in shades for gas, eleotrio, and other
lights, and in the mode of manufacturing the same.
Am^d6e Bidron and William Isaiah George Lewis, 38,
Chancery-lane, London.
22.376. Improvements in switches for eleotrioal purposes.
Charles Scott Snell, and Woodhouse and Rawson, United,
Limited, 88, Queen Victoria-street, London.
22,404. Improvements in the coupling of eleotrio mains. Henrv
White Bowden, Albert Gay, and Robert EEammona,
46, Lincoln's-inn-fields, London.
Decxmbkb 23.
22,473. Improvements in eloetrioal heating apparatus. Carl
Drevs, 323, High Holborn, London. (Complete speoifi-
oation.)
48
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 8, 1892.
22,478. ImproTemoBts in tlio eoaatmetioa mad worU&s of
eleotrlo aoeumnlAtora. Illius Aagustus Timmis, 2, Great
George-street, Westminster, London.
22,482. ImproTemoBts in Toltalo oella. Henry Harris Lake,
45, Southampton-baildings, London. (Edward Weston.
United States. ) (Complete specification. )
December 24.
22,507. IminroTemoBts in supports for tolophone roeeivlng
iastrnments. Robert Atkins Eraser and George Frederick
Rowland Kelson, 4, Clayton-sqaare, Liverpool.
22,533. Gomliinod portable elootrio lamp and battery, whioh
may also be applied to aot as a burglar alarm. Thomas
Jenner, 77, Chancery-lane, London.
22,542. ImproTomonts in devioes for eoaduoting eleotrloity to
lamps or tbo like on dining-tables or on other plaoes
^iHiere it is desirable to employ eonoealed conduotors.
George Fhillipe, and George Fitzhardinge Rose, 47,
Lincoln*s-inn-nelds, London.
22.554. Improvements in batteries and aooumulators. Henry
Harrington Leigh, 22, Southampton -buildings, London.
(Johann Franz Weyde and Ferdinand CIbm, Austria ; and
Jules Eisner, France. )
22.555. Improvements in dsmamo-elootrio maohines. Alexander
Piemstein, 4, South -street, Fiosbury, London.
December 28.
22,575. Improvements in dynamo-eleotrio maohines. Rankin
Kennedy, Camtyne Electric Works, Shettleston, (vlasgow.
"22,576. Improvements in altemating-eurrent generators and
electromotors. Rankin Kennedy, Carntyne Electric
Works, Shettleston. Glasgow.
22,582. Improvements in oeillns Joints for eleotroliers and the
like. George Frederick Sanders, 37, Chancery-lane,
London.
22,593. A combined telephone and telegraph. Frederick Harvey
Brown and Wilbur F. Melbourne, 7, High -street. Haver-
foidwest.
22,605. Improvements la oonduits for eloetrioal oonduot rs
partieularly suitable for eloetrioal traetton. Charles
Frederick Parkinson, South Regent-street, Lancaster.
22,609. Improvements in incandescent elcctrio lamps. Richard
Ballard, 2, Clifford 's-inn, London.
22,627. Improvements in elcctrio Iccomotivcc or elcetrio-motor
cars. Sidney Pierce HoUingsworth, 24, Southampton -
buildings, London.
22,636. Improvements in eloetrioal conducting wires. Henry
Harris Lake, 45, Southampton-buildings, London.
(Madame Veuve Hannetelle, n^ HortenseChapuis, France )
22,640. Improvements in electric aro lamps. William Brooke
Sayers, 46, Lincoln's-inn-fields, London.
Drokmbek 29.
22.686. Improvements in electric forges. Edwin Elliott Angell,
52, Chancery-lane, Londoti. (Complete specification.)
22.687. Improvements ia electric blank heaters for forging
machines. Edwin Elliott Angell, 62, Chancery-lane,
London. (Complete siiecifioalion.)
22,695. Improvements in apparatus for relieving electrical
circuits from static charges of electricity. Oliver
Imray, 28, Southampton-buildmgs, London. (The
Westinghouse Electric and Manufacturing" Company,
United States.)
22,708. Improvements in the maaufhcture of porous carbon for
galvanic batteries and for flUors. Wilhelm Hellesen,
4, South-street, Finsbury, London.
22,718. Improvements in machines for treating metals by elec-
tricity. George Dexter Burton and Edwin Elliott Angell,
45, Southampton-buildings, London. (Complete niiecifi-
cation.)
22,720. Improved methods of and apparatus fur heating metal
articles by eleotricity. Edwin Elliott Angell, 45, South-
ampton-buildings, London. (Complete specification.)
22,725. A new or improved method of making and breaking
dsctric circuits and apparatus therefor William
Henry Dinffle and John Mackenzie Urquhart, Norfolk
House, Norfolk -street, London.
December 30.
22,773. Improvements in and relating te electric bells and
indicators. Charles Fletcher Ennis, 31, Haselrigge-road,
Clapham, Surrey.
22,782. Improvements in electric arc lamps. (iuv Carey
Frioker, 46, Lincoln's-inn-fields, London. (Complete
specification.)
22,785. Improvements in the field magnets of dynamo-electric
wachlues. Lazarus Pike and Edward Stephen Harris,
433, Strand, London. (Complete specification. )
December 31.
22,817> Improvements la dsmamo-eleotric machines. John Hall
Rider, Northern Telegraph Works, Halifax.
22,820. Improvements in connection with telephones. Ernest
Frank Furtado, Anders Elliott, and Chetham-Strode, Ld.,
4, Moorfields, London. (Complete specification. )
*V||S87* Improvements la electric arc lamps. Hubert Hallam
jBJt^lMod sod John Bums, 6, Lord-street, Liverpool
electric SMters.
22,852. Improvements in and relating to
Francis Teague, 433, Strand, London.
22.854. Improvements relating to the electrolysis of metals.
Emile Placet and Joseph Bonnet, 6, Bream's-buildings,
London. (Date applied for under Patents Act, 18.33, sec.
103, 17th July, 1891, being date of application in France.)
22.855. A method of oztracting chromium by the aid of elec-
trolytic baths with a base of salts of chromium Emile
Placet and Joseph Bonnet, 6, Bream's-buildings, London.
(Date applied for under Patents Act, 1883, sec. ia3, 17th
July, 1891, being date of application in France.)
22.856. A method of eztraotlng chromium by the aid of elec-
trolytic baths with chromic add base. Emile Placet
and tloseph Bonnet, 6, Bream's-buildings, London. (Date
applied for under PatenU Act, 1883, sec. 103, 17th July,
1891, being date of application in France.)
22,858. Improvementa In or connected with electrical
measuring and indiimtlfsg apparatus. Erhard Ludwig
Mayer, Norfolk House, Norfolk -street, London.
22.87 1 . Improvementa relating to the employment of Electricity
when carrying out certain surcical operations. John
Jones Attwood, 20, High Holborn, London.
22.872. Bietti system of elootrio tubing. Charle William
Clement Rietti, 14, Glasshouse-street, Regent-street,
London.
Jam AKY 1, 1892.
37. Improvementa in electric tricycles and cars actuated by
eleotricity. William Walter Gerald Webb, 9, Coppenhall-
terrace, Crewe.
43. Improvementa in apparatus for electric lighting of railway
trains. Edward John Houghton and William White, 28,
Southampton-buildings, London.
January 2.
86. Improvementa in electrical railways and methods of and
means for driving cars and transmitting electrical
energy thereto. Francis' Beatus Badt, 1, Quality-court
London.
97. Improvementa applicable to the production of electric
light in walking-stieks and other similar articles
Samuel Harris Levi, 115, Cannon-street, ]/)ndon.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1890.
19,811. Propelling vessels by eleotricity. Wynne. 8d.
20,175. Klectric meters. Frager. 8d.
20,360. Klectric motors. Electric Meter Company and Parker.
8d.
1891.
105. Klectric conductors. Haselwander. 8d.
285. Telephonic transmission. Mayer. 8d.
1,779. Klectric meters, etc. Hartnell. 8d.
2,067. Klectrical transformers. Baur and Dieselhorst. 4d.
3,262. Klectrical glow lamps. Gimingham. 6d.
3,398. Klectrical burglar alarm. Spencer. 6d.
4,583. Klectric supply meters. Perry. 8d.
10,840. Klectric docks. Vander Ploeg. 6d.
14.911. Telephone receiver supporta. Marcus. 6d.
14.912. TOlephono mouth-piece. Marcus. 6d.
16,767. Klectric cooking and heating. Schindler Jenny. 8d.
17,107. Klectric arc lamps. Rider. 6d.
17,734. Klectric switches. Linders. 6d.
18,431. Secondary batteries. Waddell and others. 8d.
18,641. Dynamo-electric machines. Kelly. 6d.
18,902. Klectric conductors. Redfern. (Bergmann.) 6d.
18-916 Kleetric car troUles. Nuttall. 6d.
19,458. Kleetric accumulators. Thompson. (Edgerton). 6d.
19,469. Telephones (]rrove and Lehr. 6d.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Name
Bmsh Go
— Pref.
India Rubber, Gutta Percha k Telegraph Co
House-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Electric OoDstmction
Westminster Electric
LlTerpool Electric Supply |
PHm
Paid.
WadDaa
day
Si
—
21
10
194
' 5
5
— —
10
5
li
3i
H
'4
5
10
6i
—
6i
5
•''*
3
2ft
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 16, 1892.
49
NOTES.
Jobanaesberg is now lighted by electricity.
London Tramway Company. — A motion for the
use of electric cars was prepared at the meeting of this
comp^iny, but was not put, as the directors were all averse
to the change.
Railway Lightlngr in Oermany.— The Gteneral
Electricity Company of Berlin has been asked to contract
for the electric lighting of the Berlin-Anhalt Railway, at a
cost of Home X30,000,
raotory Lifirlitinar.— Mr. R. Dann, of High-street,
Maidstone, has executed the laying down of the plant for
the use of the electric light in the jam factory of Mr.
Chambers, at Maidstone.
Dover Telepliones, — The town clerk of Dover reports
that two telephone compaoies are seeking powers of the
district, and he suggests that the Town Council should take
action to secure their rights.
Xiong-Dlstanoe Telephones. — A Boston newspaper
announces that the Bell Company has secured possession
of an improved telephone which will transmit whispers
distinctly a distance of 500 miles.
Book Reoeived.— Messrs. Whittaker and Co. send us
■' Electric Light Cables and the Distribution of Electricity,"
by Stuart A. Russell, A.M.I.C.E., 107 illustrations, as the
last addition to their " Specialists' Series."
Royal Inatltatlon.— The arst of a course of three
lectures will be given at the Royal Institution by Prof.
J. A. Fleming on "The Induction Coil and Alternate-
Current Tiansformer," on Saturday, January 23.
Hamilton (N.B.).— At the meeting of the Hamilton
Town Council held last week, the further consideration of
the question of extending tbe gas works was delayed, and
enquiries were ordered to be made as to the introduction
of electric light.
Leith. — At the monthly meeting of the Leith Dock
Commission, the Finance Committee reported that they
liad instructed the superintendent to report as to the cost
of the introduction of a complete system of electric
lighting and the probable annual cost of maintenance.
BlectriD Boats. — The report of the French naval
attacb6 in Italy states that aa Italian inspector, Signor
Futltni, has devised a launch driven by electricity, which
irns been adopted by the Italian Navy, and the construc-
tion is to be begun immediately at the works at Spezzia.
Blaokpool. — The Electric Lighting Committee of the
Blackpool Town Council have recommended that all the
members of the committee, the town clerk, and the
borough surveyor be desired to inspect the electric lighting
in towns recommended by the sub-committee to be visited,
and to make enquiries thereon.
Dover XJgbtiag. — The town clerk reported at the last
meeting of the Dover Town Council that he had received
tbedraft agreement from the Brush Electric Light Company,
which required some rather extensive alterations and addi-
tions before being placed before the Council. It was agreed
to submit the alterations to the Council.
Bleotrio Uffhtinfl: In Ross shire. — ^By tbe utilisation
of tbe water power of a small mountain stream, a mansion
in Rosa-shire is being lighted up by electricity. Tbe stream
is only 12in. wide and 4in. deep, but is made to provide
current for 292 incandescent lamps, and for producing
warmth through a series of electric stoves.
CbloaBO Exhibition. — Great progress is being made
in the construction of the works and buildings for
the World's Cobimbinn Exposition, and it is confi-
dently expected that all will be ready for the inetallation of
exhibits by October 1, 1892 — seven months before the
exposition will open its gates to the public.
Reading Oonnty Ball — At the last meeting of the
Reading Town Council, the surveyor having reported, at
to the feasibility of lighting the large Town Hall by incan-
descent lamps on the night of the County Ball, that the
Reading Electric Lighting Company had ofiered to pvth
vide, fix, and light 15 50-c.p. lamps for £10, thia offer
was accepted.
Rochester. — In June hut the Rochester, Chatham,
etc., Electric LighUnt; Company had to take up new
premisei in Chatham, their land at Rochester being given
up to the South-Eastern Railway Company. Water wa»
wanted, and, after some considerable difficulty, on Saturday
last Councillor B. D. Batchelor tapped the phenomenal
supply of 30,000 galloni an hour.
Liverpool Town Hall. — Attention has been called to
tbe fact that although in moat large towns the electric
light is the illuminating power uied in the town hall, an
im[>ortant city like Liverpool has not adopted the syatem.
An offer has been made by the Liverpool Electric Light
Supply Company to light the town hall on certain specified
terms, but the Finance Committee have postponed the
consideration of the subject.
Eleotzio Light firom a DnmbartouBhlre Water-
fall.— Mr. J. C. White, a wealthy Glasgow chemical
manufacturer, is about to introduce the electric light into
bis mansion of Orertaun, near Dumbarton. A waterfall at
Spardie Linn, in the Kilpatrick Hills, a short distance
away, is to furnish the motive power. It is said that
sufficient power could be generated at the same place to
light the whole of Dumbarton by electricity.
Abdnllab's Falaee. — The variations in tenders for
the Mansion House and the Council-chamber are as
nothing to those found in the 20 tenders received recently
for Abdullah's Palace at Alexandria, which varied from
192,0O0f. up to 600,000f. It is said that the tender of a
German firm for the smaller amount has been accepted,
and a considerable amouut of vituperation has been
going on in the Alexandria press with reference to this
business.
Advantages of Competition. — In his report to St.
Luke's Vestry, the surveyor, Mr, M. C. Meaby, remarks,
under the head of public lighting, that "the keen com-
petition which continues between the various gas and
electric lighting companies is not without its advantage
in the public interest, as may be seen by the activity dis-
played, and the large sums of money which are being
expended by the various local authorities in rearranging
and improving the lighting of the thoroughfares of their
respective districts.'
Dr. Jonle. — Prof. Schuster made an interesting com-
munication at Tuesday's meeting of the Manchester
Literary and Philosophical Society with reference to the
iate Dr. Joule's thermometers, which he has lately had the
opportunity of inspecting and testing. Amongst them are
two which there is good reason to believe are those with
which Dr. Joule's most delicate heat experiments were
made, and which have considerable scientific as well as
historical interest owing to the change of value still observ-
able in these thermometers.
Fontypool. — An influential meeting of tradesmen and
others was held at The Crown Hotel last week for the
purpose of considering the advisability of adopting electric
lighting in the town instead of gas, as hitherto. Mr. Edwin
Fowler presided. After hearing a statement from Mr. J. C.
Howell, of the Crompton- Howell Company, Llanelly, as to
the uost of the electric system, the meeting u.na.iu.^»fa9&^
50
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 15, 1892.
decided in favour of the Bcbetne, a. commiltee being
appointed to canvaaa the town with a view of ascertaining
the probable uuotber of lights required.
Stoarbridge. — There is an opportunity at present for
bringing the advantages of the electric light to the Stour-
bridge authorities. After March next the contract for public
lighting will be revised, and the Board intend to advertise
lor tenders. They are now in the hands of the gaa company,
and there is do competition. The annual amount is £266
for 79 lamps, including lighting and cleaning. The question
of oil was mentioned, and the gas company are understood
to be able to offer advantages nest year. A committee,
consisting of Messrs. Collens, Worth, and Shepherd, was
appointed to go into the matter and report.
Dublin. — In the Dublin Town Council on New Year's
Day, the Lord Mayor, in reviewing the work of the past
year, referred to the progress of the electric installation,
and intimated that the building for the central station
would be complete in a fortnight. His Lordship also
ttated that the principal streets would be lighted in May,
and that the Corporation would he prepared to supply
current to private consumers in July. The work of laying
the street mains is being actively carried on by the Irish
House-to- Ho use Company, while the generating plant is
being pushed forward by the Electrical Engineering
Company of Ireland.
Tramways laatltate. — On Friday evening the
members of the Tramways Institute, which held its
toeeting at Bradford, visited the Eoundhay Park electric
tramway and the generating station in Beckett-street, in
which, naturally, they were greatly interested. Some good
results should come of this visit. Several pa^iers were read
during the meeting, one referring to electric traction, which
we mention elsewhere. Another paper, by Mr. H. Nott
Knight, described a system of driving tramoars by gas
engines, by which it was claimed the cost of traction could
be reduced to l^d. per car mile, as against fid. by steam
and 6d. by horse traction.
Sleotrioal Apparatas. — We have received the cata-
logue of electrical apparatus just issued by Messrs. Dollond
and Co., of 35, Ludgate-hill. We understand that this de-
partment has been-opened under the management of W. F.
Berrett, late manager to Messrs. Dale and Co. Added to
the world-celebrated optical instruments of Dollond, their
electrical apparatus will be very wall worth inspection both
by private students and authorities of electrical laboratories
The catalogue contains description and illustrations of induc-
tion machines, magnetic apparatus, batteries, coils, tele-
phones, besides apparatus for use in research or for lecture
purposes. The firm also construct special apparatus for
lecturers.
Eleotrie Meters. — Messrs. Ferranti have made some
further improvements in their meters, principally to meet
tbe requirements of the Board of Trade, A cover is
arranged over the works of the meter, the screw holes of
which can be sealed after testing arid certificate ; the meter
counectiona have a further cover which can also be sealed
when the meter is placed upon the customer's premises.
These meters are very delicate, starting at less than \
ampere in a meter registering 100 amperes — iOO per cent.
range. They are made for alternating and for direct
current readings, and in some coses are arranged with
vertical dials, though this, necessitating a worm gearing, is
not BO simple as the direct rotating vanes.
London Electric Railway.— The convenience of the
City and South London Electric Railway seems to be put
beyond a doubt, paradoxical as it may seem, by its incon-
renience. Complaints are often received of the trains being
overcrowded, plainly showing th^t the convenience of the
line is felt by more passengers than can always be accom-
modated. No wonder the other railways are being pushed
forward with rapidity. With an economical construction
in the first place, and a rush for places in the second, which
must bo met by quicker and quicker services, it Keems
probable that underground electric traction will convince
company promoters of its advantages before the overhead
electric tramway has had much more than a chance to show
its capabilities.
Durban. — The contract open for tender for the supply
of electric light to the town of Durban, Natal, will be a
good chance for tbe introduction of larger business in
South Africa, and as such is worthy of careful attention.
The conditions of tender are plain and straightforward,
though, unfortunately, there does not appear to have been
an attempt to give the esact requirements in an engineering
specification previously determined upon, usually the best
and most satisfactory way of obtaining tenders. Tbe
Council is prepared to grant rights for supply of current at
prices to be named by the contractors, and the town will
also pay an annual sum for the public lighting, the amount
of subsidy to be stated by tenderers. The town is not
large— 24,000— of which halt only are white people. The
tenders must leacb tbe town clerk, Durban, by April 30.
Electric Light for Chester. — A deputation of
Chester Town Council, consisting of Alderman Gilbert,
Councillor Stevenson, and the city surveyor (Mr. J. M.
Jones), having inspected the central electric stations at
Brighton, St, Pancras, Eastbourne, and Brompton, have
reported to the Watch Cominittee, who recommend the
Council " to vote a sum not exceeding £20,000 for carrying
out the recommendations of the deputation, and to refer
the report to this committee, with power to take such
measures as in their judgment may be proper for giving
efiect to such recommendations, and to adopt and carry
out such arrangements as may in their opinion be necessary
or desirable in carrying out the electric lighting order of
1690, tbe scheme and estimates, when prepared, to be sub-
mitted to the Council before a contract for providing an
installation is entered into."
Mntnal Telephone Company. — The first annua
gathering of tbe employes of the Mutual Telephone
Company was held at the offices, Portland street, Man-
chester, on January 8. Mr. A, R, Bennett, M.LE.E.,
general manager, presided, and there was a large attend-
ance. In the course of a short address, Mr. Bennett said
they had 900 subscribers already connected; the number
of messages per week was nearly 30,000, and the length of
wire, if put end to end, would reach half-way between
Manchester and New York. It was intended to connect
the exchange with Bolton, Liverpool, and other towns in
Lancashire, and they had up to the present reached forward
as far as Farnworth. The success of their efforts was due
in a large measure to the excellence of the staff, which had
been specially recruited from all parts of the United
Kingdom. "The evening finished with music.
Wallasey (Cheshire). — At the monthly meeting of
the Local Board of Wallasey, held last Friday, the minutes
of the Gas and Wnter Committee were brought forward,
recommending that Mr. A. B. Holmes, Liverpool, should
be engaged to make a report as to the practicability and
of lighting the district with electricity, and also as to
how far tbe pro|>osed new gas works can be utilised for both
gaa and electrical works. Mr. Heap said it was desirable
that the public should know that every effort would be
made to obtain all the information that was required on the
question of electric lighting, and with which to guide the
Board with regard to their itction in extending the gaa
Sappletaeal Co Iht "ELE(niuo.\L EsaiNEEU," January ISth, 1893.
AKTBONV BEUKEKZACS.
T, V, ALBUOHT.
(IISBEBT KAPP,
J. & 11. llUKlfUli.
Supplement to the "Eleptihcal Enoisekk," Janttari/ IS'h, ISSi.
l^ftE ELECTiRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 15, 1892.
51
works. Mr. Hawkins remarked it was hardly a question
of providing the whole parish with the electric light, but
more in the way of introducing a supplementary light
supply which would perhaps save the proposed extension.
The proceedings were confirmed.
AbergaTenny. — ^Electric Ughting is sometimes used as
a stalking horse for forcing the gas companies to reduce
their rates. Whether this is the case at Abergavenny with
reference to the County Asylum, or whether there is a
distinct intention to use the electric light, does not
appear; but at the last Local Board meeting the Gas
Committee reported the consideration of a letter from the
asylum, asking for a reply to a request for reduction of the
price of gas to 2s. 9d. "before the asylum authorities
decided as to the use of electric light." This veiled menace,
however, did not produce the effect desired, and the Gas
Committee, remarking the price paid by the asylum was
only 2s. Ud., refused the reduction, and the chairman
pointed out that the asylum was under contract to take gas
or pay for a minimum quantity for another six years.
Possibly the asylum authorities will now decide that all light
above that minimum shall be supplied by electricity.
Large Ammeters. — In a recent issue we mentioned
an ammeter constructed by the Weston Electrical Instru-
ment Company, U.S., to measure up to 5,000 amperes as
being the largest instrument yet made. Mr. James White,
of Glasgow, maker of Sir William Thomson's measuring
instruments, writes to point out that he is now supplying
Thomson standard balances to measure up to 10,000
amperes. Besides this he has supplied Thomson ampere
gauges to measure up to 6,000 amperes for use in electro-
lytic processes, and also for use with electric furnaces. It
is interesting also to learn that he has recently submitted
estimates to the Edison Illuminating Company, of New
York, for two instruments to be used on the omnibus bars
of their three-wire system, one of which is to measure up
to 15,000 amperes and the other up to 100,000 amperes on
each side of the neutral wire. It is evident, therefore, that
we can claim the manufacture of the largest ammeters for
Great Britain.
Frankfort Ezhibitlon Finances. — At a meeting
of the Managing Committee of the Frankfort Electrical
Exhibition, held on December 28, 1891, Mr. Sonnemann,
the president of the committee, submitted a preliminary
report on the financial results of the exhibition. The total
expenditure amounted to 1,362,000 marks, while the total
receipts were 1,514,000 marks, showing a clear profit of
152,000 marks. It is proposed to dispose of this surplus
in the following manner : Gratifications and salaries to
officials still employed ; publication of the official report on
the exhibition and of the report of the testing commission ;
a bonus of 15 per cent., previously stipulated by contract,
to Herr Oscar von Miller, to whose efforts the success is
partly due; repayment of the grant of 50,000 marks
made by the municipality of Frankfort and of the grants
made by the Frankfort Chamber of Commerce and two
private persons ; and, finally, repayment of part of the
payments made by exhibitors for hire of space and supply
of motive power.
Cumberland. — ^The following from the Carlisle Journal
speaks for itself : " Electric lighting does not make such
rapid progress as might have been expected ; but local
authorities are doubtless holding their hands for a while
until they can satisfy themselves as to the best method to
adopt and feel assured about the cost. If we except the
experiments in public lighting at Cockermouth, Keswick
has led the way in providing the public with the means of
supplying themselves with the electric light; but other
towns are on the look out. Whitehaven is pondering over
the subject, and at the last meeting of the trustees an offer
of a London firm to take over the provisional order granted
to the Board for electric lighting purposes was under con-
sideration. At the meeting of the Workington Town
Council a committee was appointed to make enquiries and
report to the Gas Committee upon the feasibility of intro-
ducing the electric light for street lighting at Workington.
Whatever the result of the enquiries of the committee
should be it is evidently not expected that the gas works
will be materially affected, because at the same meeting
sanction was given to a loan of £545 for gas extensions."
Coast Commnnioation. — The discussion as to
electric communication with lighthouses and lightships is
continued in the Times this week by a letter from Mr.
R. S. Culley, who, with reference to the experiments on
board the '* Sunk " lightship, says that on enquiry he finds
that this ship was chosen because of its sheltered position,
yet the telegraph frequently broke down, and the experi-
ment was abandoned nearly three years ago. In this case
the ship's mooring chain was made to form a flexible tube,
which did not, however, prevent chafing. Mr. Edward
Stallibrass, A.M.I.C.E., writing from 25, Great George-
street, says he has no hesitation in saying that should
the money be forthcoming for the most important work of
establishing communication with our isolated rock light-
houses, there would be no lack of engineers competent to
successfully utilise it. But one attempt has been made up
to now, but because that was a failure we need not assume
the thing is impossible. He advises the laying down of
three or four cables, securing each separately, and bringing
them to one main cable at the first favourable spot above
the rocks. It is unlikely all would be broken at once.
The main cable would be no more likely to break than other
submarine cables.
Antomatio Transformer Switehes. — The need for
some method of reducing the waste in current in alter-
nating-current distributing systems, caused by the absorp-
tion of magnetising current in the transformer, has long
suggested itself to electrical engineers working with the
high-tension current. Mr. Ferranti has just constructed an
ingenious piece of apparatus for this purpose, which is
found to answer well. For a large building, the trans-
former sufficient for maximum supply, say, for instance,
25-h.p. transformer, is surmounted by a smaller one, say,
2^ h.p. The circuits are led to a double-pole tipping -f-
automatic switch, which when pulled over puts in the
larger transformer. The low-tension lamp circuit is
brought down and connected to contacts which float
in a bath of oil — two plates being arranged to be
of the same polarity. Their repulsion is balanced by
the tension of a long spring until it rises sufficiently,
when the repuldion is made to actuate a magnetic
contact The current is shunted, and pulls over the
switch, putting in the larger transformer. The reverse
action takes place when the lights are turned out, the day
supply being furnished by the smaller transformer. Some
of these devices have been already supplied for central
station use.
Tamworth. — ^Very few towns in England pay for their
public gas lighting at the rate of 5s. per 1,000 cubic feet
Yet this is the rate charged at Tamworth, and it is there-
fore not very surprising that enquiries are being made with
reference to electric lighting. Mr. Henry J. Clarson, C.E.,
in his annual report says that one of the most important
matters which will be brought before the Council during
the ensuing year will be this question of lighting the
borough by electricity. He states : " The Corporation is
now paying nearly £300 per annum for lighting the
public lamps, the gas being charged at the. rate of 5s. per
5!2
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 15, 1892.
thousand cubic feet, less 10 per cent, allowed for cash
discount, and at the same time another large consumer is
charged at the rate of 3s. 9d. per thousand. This is an
injustice which no longer should be tolerated, especially
when it is known there are towns similarly situated to
Tamworth at the present time supplied with gas at half
the price; and there are also other towns lighted with
electricity under similar conditions to those that would be
required for Tamworth, where the electricity is satisfac-
torily supplied and sold profitably at a price equal to gas
at 3s. 6d. per thousand cubic feet." From the above it
will be seen that electrical engineers would have an ardent
advocate in the Tamworth borough surveyor.
Junior Engineering Sooiety. — ^At the next meeting
of this society, to be held on Friday, January 15, at the
Westminster Palace Hotel, Victoria-street, the chair being
taken at 8 p.m. by Mr. Sidney Boulding, M.I.M.E., a paper
will be read on " Modern Applications of Electricity to
Metallurgy " by Mr. George 0. V. Holmes, sec. I.N.A.,
hon. member. The paper will deal with the refining of
copper ; electrolysis of sulphate of copper solution with an
insoluble anode ; electrolysis of sulphate of copper solution
with a pure copper anode, and the resulting deposition of
pure copper on the cathode; electrolysis of sulphate of
copper solution with an impure copper anode; how the
impurities are c^ot rid of during the process so as to allow
of pure copper being deposited on the cathode. A descrip-
tion and details of cost of the electrolytic methods adopted
in practice for refining copper will also be given. The
paper will also deal with the manufacture of finished
copper articles during the process of refining, and how the
metal can be deposited in a dense and tough form. Elmore's
system of burnishing during deposition will be described,
and its advantages pointed out. Finally, the manufacture
and cost by this process of tubes, rollers, hydraulic rams,
sheet copper, wire, and tape for electric lighting will be
gone into. The paper promises to be interesting and
useful.
Cambridge. — An enquiry has been held at Cambridge
bj the Local Government Board into the application to
borrow money for purposes of electric lighting. It was
proposed to borrow £35,000. Prof. Garnett gave details sUt-
ing thtfy intended to use the Parsons steam turbine, driving
alternators at 2,000 volts. He expected the actual cost to
be £24,300, but he recommended the larger sum in view of
extension of mains. The Master of Peterhouse spoke in
opposition to the scheme, thinking a separate company
would be best He thought, however, that if the applica-
tion were granted, opportunity should be given to consider
whether direct current would not be best to adopt Prof.
Ewing, in reference to this, said it appeared from figures
published by the companies that the consumption of coal
for continuous was not much more than half that required
for the alternate-current system. Prof. Garnett admitted
that for the compulsory area with a proper supply, the
continuous current might be cheaper, but thought on the
whole alternate currents would be best Alderman
Balls, chairman of the Gas Committee, referred to the
scheme as an unlimited company using the money of the
ratepayers. He would prefer to see a private company,
strongly objecting to the money of that town being used
for speculating. The enquiry was concluded, though, of
course, the result is not known.
Animal flectricity. — The series of lectures given by
Prof. M'Kendrick, at the Eoyal Institution, on " Life in
Motion," came to a close on Saturday. Though not
trenching on the domains of practical electrical work,
investigations into the electrical action of the living body,
such as brought forward by these lectures, have not only
immediate scientific interest, but may possibly lead to
useful results in modifying our knowledge and use of con-
densers, and in stimulating the search for a means of
economic generation of electricity by direct consumption of
carbon. That there was in reality a distinct electrical
action of the human body, Prof. M'Kendrick seemed to take
as proved, and showed the effect of animal electrical currents
by means of a very sensitive galvanometer. Current from
animals such as the torpedo fish had long been known, but
it was much disputed whether there was such a thing
as an electric current from man. This man-current he
demonstrated by putting his hands into a three-quarter
per cent solution of common salt contained in two
flat vulcanite dishes. The effect upon the galvanometer
was greater as the number of fingers inserted was increased,
and was greatest when the muscles of the arm were con-
tracted. There were no fewer than 50 species of animal
that were living electric batteries, though only five or six
were generally known. In concluding the lecture, he
warned his hearers not to suppose that the final settlement
of these questions had been reached. Many problems
awaited solution, and ho urged that everyone should keep
an open mind for the reception of the truth, from whatever
quarter it might come. The lecture and the experiments
were heartily applauded by a large audience, which included
the Lord Chancellor, Sir F. Bramwell, and a number of
well-known scientific men.
Walsall. — At the meeting of the Walsall Town Council
on Monday the recommendations of the General Purposes
Committee, with reference to electric lighting and traction,
came before the Council. These recommendations were,
that the Council provide an electric lighting plant on the
lines suggested in the report of Mr. F. Brown, A.I.E.K,
at an estimated cost of £21,450, and that the common
seal be affixed to an agreement with the South Staf-
fordshire Tramways Company for the erection of iron
poles in the public streets for the working of the
lines of tramways within the borough by means of
overhead wires. With regard to the electrical scheme,
the Mayor said Mr. Brown's estimate was that,
supposing 2,000 lights, of 16 candles each, were taken, there
would be a profit of £1,266 a year. That result might not
be attained, but at all events there would be a great
improvement in lighting, and they had sufficient reason to
believe that 2,000 lights would be taken. In Birmingham
light could not be produced sufficiently fast to meet
the demands of customers, and he thought the authori-
ties of the city had made a mistake in not taking
the electric lighting into their own hands. The area,
ho explained, in answer to questions, included the
streets in the centre of the town, and the scheme would
eventually be extended to the whole of the borough.
Alderman Lindop, as a member of the committee, added
that he should do his best to get the scheme ready in six or
eight months — certainly for next winter. As to the agree-
ment with the tramways company, the town clerk and the
mayor explained that the feeder wires, except in cases where
special permission was given, would all be underground,
and the trolley wires overhead. Every seven years the
Council would be entitled to revise the agreement with the
company. The cars would be much improved. The right
had been reserved for the use of the poles for electrical or
gas lamps, and the use of the poles for advertising was
absolutely prohibited.
Steam or Eleetrieity for Tramways.— The incur-
sion of the electric tramway at Leeds has roused up the
tramway companies of the North, and some pretty little
discussions are likely to result, from which we hope elec-
tricity will come out victorious. The subject has been
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY IS, 1892. 53
taken up by Mr. Vaux, manager of the Bradford Tramway
Company, who la evidently willing to be converted by
sdvocatea of electricity, but is not yet converted. The
question is not between horses and electricity, or even
between cable and electricity, with Mr, Vaux, but with
electricity as against steam — steam meaning in his case
compound tramway engines. He does not refer to the
convenience or cleanliness, questions in which the public
are more interested than the company perhaps ; but
diacussea simply the item of cost of hauling and
management. The engine most auitable for tramway
work, according to the experience of the manager
of the Bradford tramways, is one approaching the
good engine with surface condensera. The Bradford com-
pany have now seven such engines, which show a saving of
25 to 33 per cent, over other engines. The following
figures are given : The engine was twice the weight of the
car it had to carry ; the weight of the rails had been
increased from 501b. per yard to 1061b. per yard, the beat
form being girder rails laid in concrete Gin. to 9in. thick.
The tramway engines have a tractive force of 4,5361b. on
the drawbar, and wore calculated to haul 17 tons up uii
incline 1 in 17, or 112 tons on the level. The cost of the
Bradford tramways is 9-38d. per mile, including running,
management, and maintenance. With reference to electricity,
Mr. Vaux remarks that it had been stated that electricity
would save 3d. a mile, but he scarcely saw how it
waa possible. The mere coat of hauling at Bradford
was only 4Jd., and a saving of 3d. would leave only Ud.
a mile, barely sufficient to pay men. Bepairs, he thought,
would be increased, and possible rent and cost of licenses.
He failed to see how an economy can be effected. It will
be for electrical engineers with these details before them to
convince Mr. Vaux to the contrary. The item of ijd. is
low, much lower than usually taken as the coat of steam
hauling, but it seems probable that depreciation, a heavy
item in steam tramways, is not therein taken into account.
InvemesB. — At a meeting of the Police Commissioners
in committee on Jan. 6th, a report by two engineers on the
practicability of introducing the electric li^ht into Inver-
ness was discussed in connection with a proposal to extend
the gas works at a cost of £10,000. The report described
a number of schemes for obtaining water power for turbines,
and recommended one whereby the necessary power could
be got from the Caledonian Caniil at the Muirtown Locks,
Inverness. The report stated that " on the Muirtown or
north side of the canal a working fall of 28ft. can be arranged
from the top of the locks to the basin, according to designs
which we have sketched and estimated for. This fall gives
300 b. p. with a discharge of 4,722 cubic feet of water per
minute, 600 b.p, with a discharge of 14,240 cubic feet, and
1,108 h.p. with a discharge of 26,180 cubic feet. A supply
for 600 h.p. would cause an average velocity of leas than
one-eeventh part of a mile per hour in the canal, and for
1,108 h.p. an averse velocity of one-fourth of a mile per
hour, the central surface velocity being slightly more.
Por this place we have designed an arrangement for
turbines, each yielding 260 h.p. when using 6,140 cubic
feet of water each per minute ; or, with both at work,
520 h.p, with 12,280 cubic feet of water per minute.
The cost of the two turbines complete, with the
necessary shafting, pulleys, governors, sluice gates, and
grating, erected and ready for belting on to the dynamos,
would be about £1,650. The lead, tail race, and by-wash
would cost about £3,050, and the turbine and dynamo
house with foundations for four dynamos and space and
foundations for two engines if required, and with tail race
undemeatb and with lead, about .£1,400. The by-wash
K nd alaice gates required at Docbgarroch Locks would oott
about £1,080, and an overflow for the canal basin about
£120. This makes the total cost of the complete works
and turbines for 520 h.p., £7,200. The cost of a smaller or
greater power of the same design can be given if required.
The electric cable can be taken across under the canal
at the end of the stone invert below the awing bridge."
It is understood that this scheme is 'the one that would
best suit the Canal Com misai oners, because the dis-
charge from the turbines could be used for raising the level
of the canal basin when required for deeply-loaded ships,
for which the noiiaal depth of the basin is not sufficient,
Along with this scheme a fall of 16ft, with the same
amount of water, might be worked from the overflow of the
canal basin at the end of the sea embankment. With the
discharge of 12,280 cubic feet per minute it would yield
297 h.p. It was resolved to have the report printed before
it is finally disposed of, and in the meantime it was agreed
to recommend that, whatever may be done with the electric
light, it is essential to extend the gas works,
Annnal Dinner. — On Saturday last the dynamo
department of Messrs, Johnson and Phillips held their
second annual dinner at East Ureenvrich. The dinner was
highly successful, over 80 sitting down to a substantial
repast, under the presidency of Mr. S. Sudworth, chief
foreman of the dynamo department, who was ably seconded
by Mr. Chennery, foreman of the engineering department,
and Mr. Lawrence, of the submarine department. There
were also a number of engineers of other firms present —
Mr. Jones, engineer to Messrs. Drake and Gorham ; Mr,
Miller, electrical engineer to the Bank of Australasia ; Mr.
A, J. Upton, engineer to the Union Bank of London j
Mr, J. N. Cooper, of the Edison-Swan Company ; Mr.
Evered, electrical engineer at St. Pancras, and others.
Mr. Sudworth, in giving the health of the firm of
Messrs. Johnson and Phillips, said that the business
was going up by leaps and bounds. Their dynamos were
growing larger, while more of them were turned out, and
the manufacture of the D.P. accumulator, he thought,
promised to become almost more important than that of
dynamos. The firm's products now went throughout the
glolie, and in Africa, China, as well as the European
nations, the dynamos and lamps made by the men then at
dinner were used for electric light. He paid a great tribute
to the kind and considerate way in which the firm treated
their men. No one, he thought, could ever wish to be
better treated than they were. Every consideration was
shown for their comfort and intellectual aid, as the beautiful
library lately established served to show. The toast waa
responded to by Mr. Chennery, who was evidently, from
his reception, as much liked for his good nature as
respected for hia good discipline. " Harmony between
men and employes " was his watchword. The health
of Mr. Gi short Kapp was proposed by Mr. Evered
(lately with Messrs. Johnson and Phillips, but now in
charge of the Kapp machines at the St. Pancras central
station) in very sympathetic language. He had worked
for many years under Mr. Kapp, who remained to work-
men as well as others the same kindly, courteous gentleman
be always had been. Mr. Pierce also spoke in answer to
enthusiastic calls. Mr. Lawrence, as the oldest employ^,
and at one time timekeeper and only foreman, spoke of the
growth of the works, and hoped they would all long
continue in the same firm. The evening waa finished ia
fine style with songa, of which those with a line rousing
chorus were best appreciated. Mr, William Davis, who
acted as pianist, was to be complimented on his performance.
The general good feeling, and enthusiasm seems to augur
well for Messrs. Johnson and Phillips, and the men will
doubtless look forwaitl to many equally auecesaful dinners
54
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 15, 1892.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
"Will LbeExbibition be a euccess T' waa the question
asked by a gentlemaQ upon getlinf; out of the train at the
Palace on the opening day. Such a question, too, will
often be asked during the next few months, and to it time
alone can give a definite anawev.
The Exhibition was opened without ceremony on Satur-
day, but we understand that in about another week there
will be a formal visit of inspection, and possibly some
specifying. It is expected by that time the laggards in
love — no, in preparation will have put in their time, com-
pleted their exhibits, be ready for giviiig information and
for receiving congratulations, and— orders.
The first edition of an exhibition oatalogne is rarely
complete, and we should perhaps defer our remarks, but
an excellent plan has been followed in preparing a series of
short essays of a popular character to introduce the separate
departments to the visitor. This work has been left in the
able hands of Mr. H. J, Dowsing, who undoubtedly must
have felt himself heavily handicapped in attempting to cram
a mass of iiiterestiug information into the small space of
two 01 three pages. We believe the general public will
rightly appreciate this endeavour to give them trustworthy
information in a simple manner.
The backwardness of many of the exhibits, and especially
those in the machinery department, makes it difficult to
adopt what by many would be thought the best method to
describe the exhibits. The scheme we propose to adopt,
however, will need little or no alteration. It will be
admitted at once by experts that there vrill necessarily be
comparatively little that is new from a technologist's point
of view. It will be also admitted that the main object of
an exhibit is to let the world of visitors and the world of
readers learn the specialities of the exhibitor's manufacture.
The technical journal, then, should, in our estimation,
become rather more of a go-between from the exhibitor to
the general public — the ultimate buyer — than from the
technologist to the technologist.
When and how to begin is the difficult point to decide.
However, as every eye will nightly be turned towards the
brilliant screen of incandescent lamps exhibited by the
Edison-Swan Company at the end of the North Nave, let
UB turn thitherward. At the time of writing the screen is
incomplete, but sufficient lamps are wired thereon to show
what a gorgeous Hood of light there will be when fully
complete. Underneath the screen is the stand of the
company, which contains a fine assortment of the
manufactures of the company. When finished we wilt
visit it again. Next, in the centre of the nave, is the large,
varied, and excellent display of the Post Office. Here we
have the historic apparatus of telegraphy on four long
counters. A day — nay,a week — might be spent around these
exhibits in tracing the gradual development of telegraphy,
as telegraphy is understanded of the people who do not
usually place telephony under the same it'gis. But tele-
phony, as we shall see by-and-by is well represented
further along. The extreme jwints in the telegraphic
display of the Post Office are to be seen in the various
(1837) instruments of Cook and Wbeatstone, in tbe first of
which five needles and five line wires were required, and
the other extreme in the beautiful multiplex apparatus of
today, by means of which half-a-dozen messages, or rather
half-a-dozen instruments, are in communication with
only one line wire. Men who are approaching the
age of threescore years and ten can, or ought, to
well remember the introduction of telegraphy, and, of
course, the astounding development of all things elec-
trical since that time. Their starting point at this
exhibition should be the Post Office exhibit, and then
passing around the aisles and galleries of the Palace they
would have presented to them an epitomised history of
their lifetime so far as electrical developments are con-
cerned. Commencing with telegraphy, what are the great
departures t Electro -deposition was soon born, and now
claims thousands of labourers. The electric light in the
forties had a kind of will-o'-the-wisp existence. Its turn
bad not come, but men prophesied, and had no honour. In
the beginning of the fifties came submarine work, and for
many years cJaimed great attention, till, iifter herculeui
efforts, it was proved a success. Meanwhile, that will-o'-
the-wisp would dance backwards and forwards, and
throw a glamour over men's minds, but its time was
not yet. The seventies were to inaugurate a new era- — a
new development of telegraphy — a development to enable
us not only to convey signals but sounds of speech, was
ushered in, and is now enjoying a flourishing manhood.
And the electric light came also to stay. Gramme, Siemens,
and JablochkofT in 1878 paved the way. Then came a
hurricane, and the 18S1 Exbibition at Paris and the 1383
at the Crystal Palace took the world by storm. The success
of electric light was demonstrated. Incessant activity gave
us the Plante secondary battery and its successors. Inventors
followed Gramme and Siemens by the hundred, and through
tbe eighties we have witnessed a feverish excitement
whicb is carrying electrical matters forward by leaps
!ind bounds. This is but a slight indication of what
the old man might think in hia wanderings among
the stands. But we must be more precise. Opposite the
Post Office exhibit is stand No, 117, belonging to The
Mining: and General Eleotrio Lanip Co., a repre-
sentation of which our artist has enabled us to produce.
This company appeals to us metaphorically for considera-
tion. Previous toa visit to the 1881 Paris Exhibition, Mr.
Desmond FitzUerald had shown us ex^jeriments he was
making and investigations he was carrying on to attempt to
make more perfect secondary batteries than were public
Mining Lamp.
property at that time. We reminded Mr. FitzGerald that
he and others had worked in this direction as far back as
18G3. While at Paris a conversation with Mr. Crompton
ended in a promise to bring him into communication
with Mr. Desmond FitzGerald. Subsequently they met,
but afterwards drifted apart — ^Mr. Crompton to develop
his business into the gigantic concern it has become,
Mr, FitzGerald to the laboratory to perfect hia " lithanode,"
the name be has given to the material he uses in his
secondary battery. After many vicissitudes the Mining
and General Company was formed to exploit Mr. Fitz-
Gerald's, Prof, Frankland's, and other methods of maiuifac-
turing secondary batteries, and to carry on the business of
electrical engineering generally. For some time there was
lacking a good business bead, but it seems these difficulties
are being surmounted, and under the energetic and capable
management of Mr, J. T. Niblett the company is rapidly
assuming its right position, and placing its specialities
on the market, The stand comprises a dark room,
wherein to show moi-e effectively the capabilities of
the small hand lamps and miner's lamps, in which
direction particular attention is being given. Mr, N. Story-
Maskelyne, M.P., as many of our readers know, has paid
great attention to all that concerns the safety of miners,
and no doubt it is due to his initiative that the company of
which he is the chairman should specially examine into the
merits of secondary batteries for lighting purposes in mines.
Thus we iisd, as we should uaturaSy expect, the company's
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 15, 1892.
65
axhibit compriMs, among other things, a good display of the
metal-cued safety electric band lamp, which hu been
specially constructed for use in such places as coal mines.
In designing it every precaution has been taken to ensure
perfect reliability. It will be found to withstand with-
out injury all ordinary usage and the accidental rough
treatment incidental to employment in coal mines.
The lamp consists of a small two-cell battery of the
tithanode type, mounted in an outer steel protecting case.
A circular switch serves to throw the lamp in and out of
action. Insulating charging terminals are placed above the
lantern bezel, and these are covered by projecting lugs
attached to the cover, so that when the lamp is in action
the cells cannot be short-circuited, and therefore all possi-
bility of sparking is avoided. When the lamp is used in
coal mines the bezel carrying the glass glow-lamp protector
may be secured against removal by means of a laid locking-
pin. The ordinary full-size lamp weighs about 4^1b., and
when fully charged it will run a 1-c.p. glow lamp for a
period of 12 hours. Tbeactual cost of the electrical energy
consumed is about one-tentb of a penny per shift of 12
houn. The company's miner's lamps have now withstood
To other ozhibite of the company we shall refer in another
issue.
A little further down the nave we come to one of the
most prominent exhibits, that of the Fowler-Waxliiff
Cable Ooiapaoy, and it had the almost unique
peculiarity of being quite ready on the opening day. lliiB
stand. No. 90, which we illustrate on next page, is devoted to
wires, which, like the rate of the poem, are of all kinds,
from the smallest to the largest in common use. Here we
find concentric wires, lead-covered wires, armoured wires,
wires and cablea for electric lighting, and for telegraph and
telephone work. A p]rramid 26ft. high is formed of
lengths which have been cut from representative cables
manufactured at their North Woolwich works for our own
Qovemment, for the French Ministry of Fosta and Tele-
graphs, and for the Giovemment of Queensland. There are
also specimens of the cablea used for connecting the London
telephonic centres to the Paris tolephone cable ; and among
the more important electric lighting cables are sections of
the high-tension distributing mains which are employed
extensively by the London Electric Supply Corporation.
A large number of cable joints, jointing tools, and junction-
the test of time, and from the very satisfactory manner
in which they have passed through some most severe
practical triJs they may be relied upon to fulfil all the
requirements of a nearly periect electnc safety hand lamp.
Tbii lamp is known in France, where it is much appreciated,
fts the " Stella " safety lamp. Other forms of miners'
lamps are also shown. Lithanode batteries of a portable
natnn, and mounted in fancy wood cases, are to be seen.
S<»ne of these are adapted for use in gas works, petroleum
•hips, gunpowder mUla, and similar places where an
ftbwilately safe illuminant is required. Four, six, eight,
and ten-cell batteries, suitable lor carriage lighting, or
domaetie requirements, are shown in action. A case con-
taininff electrical measuring instruments, automatic cut
oota, hydrometers, and other secondary battery accessories
may m seen. Batteries for house lighting, traction
pnrpoaea, military and naval use, medical and dental
purpoeea, are also shown. Some specially constructed
cells as4^ for actuating telegrapfas and telephones are to
be Men. Borne of the batteries have been under trial at
the danend Poet Office, and are giving every satisfaction.
A Ttrie^ ol lithanode-rinc cells are shown. This combina-
tion giTM tka higheat known E.M.F. of any practical cell.
boxes are also exhibited, together with the diplomas and
medals which had been awarded to the company.
It is perhaps a little invidious until all are complete to
indicate any one exhibit as the best, but we certainly feel
inclined to mention that of the Brasli Xleotoioal
Enfflaeeiing Company as one of the most important
and imposing of the whole Exhibition. Their ezhibite are
divided into two — one in the Main Transept, and the other
in the Machinery Hall. The one includes what is termed
stationary exhibits, and the other moving machinery,
though, in fact, much of the former will be driven by electnc
transmission of power from the Machinery Boom and shown
in motion. Standing in the centre of the transept, just
opposite the entrance to the Palace from the railway
station, the Brush Company could hardly wish for a
better position for the exhibition of the products— dynamos,
arc lights, motors, tramcars — and the very handsome manner
in which they have been mounted serve the better to show
them off; while in the Machinery Boom the fact that the
Brush Company can label their machines "exactly the
aame as used for lighting the City of London " will cause the
attention of private persons, engineers, and members of
local authorities to be turned with great interest upon their
66
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANDARY 15, 1892.
exhibit. ThiB Brush exhibit in the Machinery Room will
certainly be a fine sight when all ii ip working order, and
additional intereat it given by the fact that all the plant —
engine, dynamo, and Sttinga — were made by the company
either at their works in Lambeth or at Loa^hborough. There
are five seta of engines and dynamos, ranging from the large
aize ased at the City of London Electric Light Company's
station at Bankside, down to the natty little combined plant
of 10 h.p. to light a private house— and even smaller sizes
still of combined plant are shown in their stationary
exhibit. We give an illustration of the specially designed
Itaworth engines, nude by the Brush Company at their
Falcon Works, and used either for driving by betting or
for driving direct by " Raworth " flexible coupling. The
first exhibit is the central station plant above mentioned, as
used for the City lighting. This comprises a vertical engine
of 260 Lh.p., driving a Moidey alt^nate-current dynamo,
giving 100,000 watts (100 units), capable of supplying
3,000 to 4,000 8-c.p. lampe. The following are the
type, capable of supplying current for 65 Brush arc lampe
in series for town lighting. This dynamo is also driven by
endless rope gearing with eight grooved piilloys. the rope
passing over a jockey pulley for tightening. The dynamo
will not work at its full load, at any rate at present. The
current will be led to the six lampe on the Brush Com-
pany's masthead light in the centre of the transept, and
will also supply lamps at each comer, on the specimen
City lamppost, and four or five in the Machinery
^11. The third set of machinery is a 50-i.h.p.
vertical engine, driving one of the Brush Company's
Victoria incandescent dynamos. The engine has cyUndera
of 7Jin. and 131in. by 8in. stroke, working at 250 revo-
lutions. The dynamo is such as used generally for lighting
institutions or uu^e private mansions, and is of a capacity
of 36,000 watt« — equal to about 1,000 8-c.p. incandescent
lamps. The fourth set is particularly interesting to intending
purchasers of electric lighting apparatus, being a combined
plant in which the Raworth vertical engine is connected
particulars of the engine: hi^h-prossare, compound,
working at UOlb. pressure, cyhnders 16in. and 25in.
by 16in. stroke, running at 168 revolutions a minute. This
engine drives the alternator by means of an endless rope
gearing, running in eight grooves and over a ''jockey "
pulley. This dynamo is not the largest the Brush dompany
make, the largest at present made being of 200 units
capacity, or double the capacity of the one shown. The
current from this dynamo will be led from the Machinery
Hall to a similar alternator at the other stand. This second
Mordey alternator will be run as a motor, demonstrating
the utility and efficiency of these machines for the electric
transmission of power, either for the utilisation of water
power to light a town from a distance, or for driving a
factory engine or such purpose.
The second engine and dynamo shown by the Brush Com-
Sny is only of 75 i.h.p., driving one of the famous Brush arc
^ht dynamos. The details of the engine are these :
cylinders 9iD. and 15in. bv lOin. stroke, 217 revolutions,
I40Ib. steam pressure. The dynamo is one of the "8L"
direct to the Victoria incandescent dynamo by means of
Raworth's patent flexible friction grip coupling, mounted
upon a combined bed-plate. These sets of combined
engine and dynamo make exceedingly compact and useful
electric light plants, and are much used for shipiightina
and other places where the question of space is one of
importance. The engine in this case is of 16 i.h.p., single
cylinder, siie 8in. by 6in. stroke, driving an 18-unit
dynamo. We give an illustration of this set. A sensitive
fovemor is driven from the engine shaft, and above the
ynamo is mounted a tachometer, or speed indicator, driven
from the dynamo shaft. A fifth exhibit, comprising another
combined plant of 10-i.h,p. engine, coupled by flexible
coupling to a small Victoria incandescent dynamo, is used
to supply the current for exciting the field magnets oE the
lai^e altei-nator.
Returning nowto the Main Transept, we will mention what
the Brush Company show here ; but we intend later on to
refer again to these more in detail In the first plaoe, an enor-
mouB mast Umppoet, built up of tutmlar plates, will be sure to
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 15, 1892. 67
ftttrMtaU«iition,reubJnga8itdoeanearly totheheightof the i while at each corner other Bruth )ampi will be liehted. Id
roof of thePftUce, and carrying six arc lamps. A apecimen the cODtre of the stand is a heautiful specimen of tmncar,
Umppoi^ M used ia the City, will shed light upon Uie slall, to be used for electric traction, made at the company's
58
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 15, 1892.
Falcon Works, Loughborough. In the front of the stall is
a 50-unit Mordey alternator. This we have already men-
tioned as intended to be shown ruuniuf; aa a motor. Down
one side of the stand are a series of combined plants of
engine and dynamo, of 6 b.p., 10 b.p., 16 h.p., and 30 h.p.,
for house and shiplighting. Hieso will be shown in
motion, the dynamos acting as motors. On the other
side is an equally interesting set of Brush arc light
dynamos for 2, 4, 10, 16, 20, and 05 lights each. In
the centre is an enormous Black man air-propeller,
aa used for ventilating mines or breweries, or for forced
draught. An important exhibit is also that of a 24-h.p.
electric motor driving a quartz crusher for mining purposes.
The crusher is made by the Sandy Croft Foundry and
Engine Company, of Chester, the motor being one of the
Brush Company's Victoria machines. We must not forget
to mention also that in front of the exhibit we see a
pyramid of the Brush Company's transformers used for
town lighting on the alternate- current system. In this
company's exhibits we thus find almost the whole range of
electrical engineering covered. From small installations of
two arc liehte, or 20 incandeEcents, up to the large
engines ana dynamos, with their switchboards and tamps,
used for central supply stations for town lighting,
given every satisfaction. We believe it is a fact that Mr.
Hermann's place has been burned down twice, and great
diflSculty was experienced in getting the insurance com-
panies to cover it, and then only at the high rate of 25b.
per cent. Immediately on the introduction of the electric
crane, and the consequent abolition of a boiler needing tire,
Mr. Hermaun's premium was reduced to 12b. 6d. per cent.,
and thison an insurance of £40,000. The crane boistfl, travels,
and slews at the same time. The attendant having no fires
to stoke, Dor smoke to prevent him seeing what he is about,
can perform his work with very much more ease than with
a steam crane, and at a far more rapid rate. In Mr,
Hermann's case a large dynamo is used for lighting the
works, and leads are taken- from this machine to run the
crane — no extra attendance is therefore required for driving
the generating machinery. In this connection we may
mention that, owing to the satisfactorv working of the
crane at the above timber-yard, Messrs. Crompton
have received orders not only for similar plant, but
also for electric capstans and haulage plant generally.
The crane shown at the Exhibition is driven by a five-unit
motor taking 46 amperes and 110 volts. It will hoist, we
understand, a weight of two tons, at the rate of SOft.
per second. The motor ia connected by a friction
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Crompton'i Electric Crane.
seta of electric light plant for ships, ventilating fans,
transmission of power for mines, for quarts crushing, I
for electric tramcars, the lighting of docks, of city streets,
Eroj'ectors for naval and military use, dynamos for colliery
ghting, motors for hauling are all shown ; and when it is
remembered that the company not only supply but have
manufactured the whole of the machinery they now
exhibit, the commanding position of the Brush Electrical
Engineering Company can be thoroughly appreciated.
The exhibits of UesBra. Cronpton and Co., Ziimited,
are conspicuous all through the Palace. At one stand we
see a projector ready to throw its vivid rays in a stream of
light wherever directed, while all around are dynamos made
by this company. A little further down is a brge crane
worked electrically, and it is this item of their exhibit we
choose for description in this issue. The crane shown is
the original model made in the early part of 1686, and is i
claimed to be the first one constructed in this country.
It was the outcome of a large number of experiments,
and the cranes that have been turned out by the firm
since the above date have been made on the same
principle, and have in every case worked very satisfactorily.
The first crane made by Messrs. Crompton was supplied
to Mr. Hermann, of Dodd-etreet, Dmebouse, for work
in a timber-^ard, and is still employed there, having
wheel to an intermediate shaft, which is connected by
a spur wheel to the drum-shaft. This latter con-
tains a clutch to throw the drum in or out of
gear. A powerful band brake is provided on the drum
and is worked by a treadle. The slewing is done by inter-
mediate gearing from the intermediate shaft, and is con-
trolled by a hand lover conveniently placed. The crane is
made to travel by the movement of a hand wheel in a
manner simitar to that by which the operation of slewing is
carried out. It is fitted with Crompton's patent sight-feed
lubricators, and all the latest improvements. Current is
supplied to the crane by two rails, along which are laid
copper strips. The rails are carried on Crompton insula-
tors similar to those used in his underground mains, and
are laid between the travelling rails. The current is taken
ofT by an improved form of collector gearing with carbon
brushes. A double-pole switch and fuse are interpolated in
the circuit. The crane will be exhibited at work at certain
stated times during the Exhibition, due notice of which will
be given.
Close by is another early complete and excellent exhibit,
Stand 173, This is the exhibit of the Western Electric
Company, and, as we remarked last week, have a compre-
hensive exhibit covering the whole field of telephonic
requirements, of which we hope to give full particutan in
The ELECTRtOAL ENGINEER. JANUARY 15, 1892.
H9
the coiiTM of our review of the Exhibition. We select for
illustration this week one of the smaller switchboards
showD by tham. It differs from their well-known Standard
model in having no clearing-out drops, one of the sub-
scriber's drops being left in circuit for clearing, as in a
Bingle-cord board.
It will, perhaps, be advisable to say little of the machinery
department for the moment, except the boiler-room, which
is practically complete. Davey, Faxman, and Go.
WeeMrn Elecuic Company's Telephi
ragD here supreme, and, under the indefatigable activity
of Mr. H. D. Wilkinson, this firm seems destined to add
■till farther to the high esteem in which its productions
are held. On the left-band of the boiler-room is a
battery ef eight steel locomotive type boilers used for
•nppljring steam for driving the engines during the
Eibibition. The boilera contain about a total heating
mrfaoe of C,610 square feet ; they are provided with steel
finbtKcas, and are made in the best known and most modern
ar, being well stayed and tested by hydraulic pressure
to 2501b. per square inch for a working pressurs of 1401b.
per square inch. A steel steam receiver runs the entire
leni^th of the boilers, connected to each by a separate stop-
valve, so that either or any of the boilera can be shut
off immediately if necessary. The object of the receiver
is to give dry steam to the engines, and to turn
back to the boilers any condensed steam, The pumps
feeding the boilers are provided by Mr. A. G. Mumfoni,
of Colchester, and the injectors are of Messrs. Oresham and
Craven's manufacture. The boiler fittings are asbestos-
packed, and the water-gauges are fitted with protecting
shields. Un the right is one of Poxman's patent new type
water-tube boilers, in boiler-house, used for supplying steam
for driving engines during the Exhibition. The boiler
contains about 1,572 square feet of heating surface. This
boiler is made on a new principle, in wbich it automatically
separates any water in the steam. The joints are made on
Paxmau and Plane's patent metallic principle, and are a
very great advance in this direction. This is the first
time this boiler has been exhibited to the public. It
contains several new features, principally as to the
circulation and separation of steam from water. Further-
more, it is made in
are very readily
removable and
are much more
handy for re-
pairs than is
common to
many of the
types of these
boilers. The
joint for the
headers for
getting at the
tubes are of
Pax man and
Plane's patent
above referred
to (see annexed
sketch), a pat-
tern of which
at their stand.
This is a very
simple, but at
the same time
serviceable
joint, and will,
weexpect,come
into general
use, not only
in this type of
boiler, but for
manholes and
mndboles, etc., in other kinds of boilers. The sketch shows
the plan as being round, but the joint can be made any shape.
The way to break the joint is by unscrewing the nut and
pushing the small door inwards. The metallic ring is made
of pliable metal, so that it is quite easy to spring and alter its
shape to enable it to draw through the opening. After thering
has been removed,then,thBdoor can be easily drawn through,
as will be seen from the sketch that the door is smaller than
the opening made in the plate. The hole is made conical
or taper, with the largest taper on the inside, and the
metallic ring is made precisely the same taper as the hole
so as to fit the bole. The door is made with a slightly less
taper, so that the joint is mode on the outside edge of the
door. The joint possesses the following advautages : It can
be quickly broken and remade, and when made it is per-
fecUy tight. The greater the pressure inside the tighter
the joint, as the pressure assists in keepine; the joint tight
It is very lasting, and the metallic cover is almost inde-
structible and wiU last for many years. It is very cheap
and always reliable, and being so easily and readily made,
as above described, it enables the boiler to be taken to
pieces for examination with a minimum loss of time. This
is an advantage not hereto obtained, and we believe this
joint will become that of the future and have a great sale,
aa Davey, Pazman, and Co. are willing to grant licenses to
all makers of tuhular boilers. The other e^blts hftnabcK.
j' '
"W
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—4
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r
FaxmaD and Plane's Joint— Section.
60
tH£ ELDCI'lllCAL ENGlMfiH, JANUARY 15, 1892.
THE
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1892
Ck)rre8pond6nce
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Practical Instruments for
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66
Electric Drills 67
Glasgow 69
The Electric Light at Ports-
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Reading Electric Lighting 70
Companies' Meetings 71
Companies' Reports 71
New Companies Registered 71
Business Notes 72
Prov^isional Patents 72
Specifications Published ... 72
Companies' Stock and Share
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We have made some endeavours to gather opinions
as to the most important points needing elucidation
in central station work. Well, we have obtained
opinions, but for practical use they can hardly be
classified to advantage. Most electrical engineers
with whom we are brought into contact have
sufficient faith in their own powers to say. Give us
the opportunity to instal a central station, and we
will show that it can be done satisfactorily. In
fact, we are more convinced than ever that there
must be some diversity in practice, and that the
system followed in one district with the best results
may not be so suitable to another district. In the
majority of cases the consensus of opinion is in favour
of sub-stations. Though it might be thought other-
wise, there seems to be a growing feeling in favour
of accumulator sub-stations. No doubt the future
will make several points clearer, and as regards
systems of mains will show how far maintenance
must enter into consideration in designing the
original system. The survival of the fittest involves
time, and as yet deterioration has played little or
no part in our thoughts.
A not very inviting discussion has recently taken
place relating to the " sheer " cost, whatever that
may mean, of electrical energy. There are two views
regarding cost put forward by controversialists, and
both these views may bo taken as correct. One side
argues that the cost per unit of electrical energy
generated is all important, contending that all other
portions of the charge to the consumer are of the
nature of constant charges, and fluctuate but little
with the number of units supplied. Thus, if the
charge to the consumer is 8d. per unit, the prime
cost of the unit is 2d., and incidental charges 6d.
Now it costs 6d. to distribute one unit,but it only costs
6d. to distribute one himdred units, so that with the
increased demand for units the profits should increase
according to the prime cost per unit,andnot according
to outcharge per unit. On the other hand, the con-
sumer and the shareholder deride the fature, and
prefer a certain advantage in the present. They
look simply at the balance-sheet, which shows a
certain expenditure and a certain income. This
expenditure has been increased by the production
and the distribution of a certain number of units.
According to these views, dividing the total expen-
diture by the number of units sold gives the prime
cost per unit. As we say, both people are right.
We are among those, however, who contend that the
electrical engineer is not concerned with the considera-
tion of the prime cost from the shareholders' point
of view. His chief object is to keep the cost of
generation at the lowest possible point, and to dis-
tribute to the consumers as great a percentage of the
energy generated as possible. The other part of
the business lies with the management. It will be
seen, then, our view is that the engineer's respon-
sibility ends at the house terminalSy not at the
dynamo terminals ; and, if we mistake not, . some
engineers prefer to argue as if their responsibility
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANTTARY 15, 1892.
Rl
ended at the dynamo terminals. A misfortune in
connection with cost is the per&istent iteration of
comparative figures of electricity v. gas. Many
electrical engineers promise their customers or lead
them to expect the electric light shall be maintained
as cheaply as gas. It may be so in the millennium,
but not now, ouless there be a mental reservation
as to the prices of gas meant. There is usually
another reservation that, unlike gas — which the
servants light and leave burning all the evening —
the electric light is to be switched on and off just
when and where wanted. We have pointed out
again and again that if what the popular mind takes
as meaning as "cheap as gas" is so in reality,
electricity wonld really be about half the price.
That is, if gas and its eqnivalent in electricity cost
4s., the real cost of the electricity to the consumer
would be far less than the real cost of gas. There
is no getting out of the fact that the indirect expen-
diture due to gas lighting often costs as much, if not
more, than the gas itself, so that the cost of gas does
not end with the payment of the gas bill. With
the electric light it is different. The indirect pay-
ments are absent. And if these payments are not
taken into consideration by business men, it is
the faolt of the exploiters of electric lighting.
Thos, Babhaclough and Co., Limited, Globe
Works, Rocbdale-road, Manchester, rejwrt a large
and increasing amonnt of business during 1891 in
the manafacture of their specialities. In the past
year they had a larger turnover than in any pre-
ceding, and although they worked overtime the whole
year, and for a portion of it worked day and night,
they were not able to keep pace with the increasing
demand for machinery. They have added materially
to the number of their tools, and are now completing
a new erecting shop with an additional 10-ton
travelhug crane, in order to facilitate the manufac-
ture of heavy machines. Last year they completed
the installation of the large submarine cable ^ctory
in Calais, consisting of six machines for making
deejHsea cables, one machine for making inter-
mediate cables, and one machine for making
shore-end cables of the heaviest description. The
two latter machines are each driven by a pair of
independent steam engines. In addition to this
they mode the whole of the core-serving and
accessory machinery. The company is now
engaged in executing a large order for a new sub-
marine cable works in process of erection in the
South of France. They report having executed a
large number of orders for electnc stranding
machines, electric cable machines, indiarubber
and gntta-percba machinery, wire-covering ma-
chinery, for the United States, Germany, Italy,
and the Continent generally. They have in-
troduced in the manufacture of their machinery
a number of improvements with the view of
enabling the machines to be run at a very high
speed with the minimum amount of attendant
labour ; this involves the making of the machines in
the best possible manner. They are now receiving
orders and enquiries for machinery from a much
wider area than they formerly did. Russia, Spain,
Portugal, the Australian colonies, and even China
ore now manufacturing electric wire and cables, and
there is a prospect of the trade spreading yet further.
They nndertake the fitting up of cable factories with
every requisite from the motorto the largest machine
made. As a proof of the heavy character of some
of the work recently done, they inform us that they
have made several machines weighing each from 48
tons to 50 tons.
W. T. GooLDEN ADD Co. — The progress of
business in the past year has been favourable, the
firm having experienced considerable activity in all
branches of work, including the supply of dynamos,
instruments, and accessories for central station
work, and the supply and fitting up of electric
installations in private houses and mansions,
worked by steam and water power. They have also
been very busy with the electric mining work,
including plants for pumping, hauling, winding,
rock drilling, and coalcutting. Motor work for
workshops, bunches, etc., has also been fairly good.
The prospects for the coming year appear to be
fairly good.
Jaues Macintybe AMD Co. are makers of porce-
lain only for the use of electrical engineers. The
trade is undoubtedly increasing as far as this firm is
concerned, and they find it difficult, particularly at
this time of the year, to keep pace with the demand
for switches, ceiling roses, and the like. Much more
care and consideration is being given to the decora-
tion of these articles, many of which are now of an
elaborate and artistic character. Perhaps the greatest
improvement in porcelain is the tapping of holes to
take British Association threads ; by this means the
small brass attachments are screwed direct into the
porcelain, thus avoiding the nut at the back, and
therefore improving insulation considerably.
SwiNBnBNE AND Co. — This firm reports that their
business in transformers has largely increased during
tlie past year. They find the demand for their type
of transformer gradually growing both at home and
abroad. During the year they have also brought out
alternating-current condensers, as many engineers
thought the exciting currents of their transformers
would give trouble. Except with station engineers,
who stilt think an idle cnrrent means power, the
trouble has never come up in practice ; but there
has been some demand for condensers, as there is
a great deal of experimental work on motors and
other apparatus involving them. They have also
brought ont alternating-current gear for testing
cables under high pressures. They are now making
a plant to give 40,000 volts and three amperes for the
Suvertown Company, who wish to test cables by
the mile under high pressures. Messrs. Swinburne
and Co, are now bringing out sneciahties in instru-
ments for central station work — their wattmeter
for transformer testing having been already des-
cribed in this journal. They have introduced a
Eractice which should not be new in transformer
usiness, hnt is novel — keeping a large stock ready
for delivery. They say that more of their increased
business is due to this than to theoretical efficiencies
of the highest order.
Westebn Counties and Sodth Wales Tele-
phone Company, Limited ; head office, 16, Higb-
street, Bristol. Under the energetic and able manage-
ment of Mr. H. F. Lewis, this company continues
to make good progress in its district. How large
this is and how far it has been exploited will be seen
from the accompanying map showing the lines com-
pleted, in course of construction, and proposed. In
December, 1891, the number of exchanges was 46,
and the number of exchange private and trunk
renters, 4,066. The following is a hst of the exchanges
open : Bristol and Clifton, Bath, Weston-super-Mare,
Gloucester, Cheltenham, Tewkesbury, Newport,
Cardiff (two exchanges, connected by local trimkft\t
63
THE ELECTRlCAJL ENGlKEER, JAKPABY 15, 1892.
Barry, Penarth, Pontypool, Pontypridd, Aberdare,
Merthyr, Tredegar, Swansea, Neath,, Briton Ferry,
Port Talbot, Morriston, Llanelly, Shrewsbury,
Worcester, Plymouth, Devonport, Mutley, Torquay,
ampton, Winchester, Weymouth. The company has
313 employes. It has an extensive trunk line system
at present in three groups — viz. : (1) Bristol, Bath,
Weston-super-Mare, Gloucester, Cheltenham, Wor-
Newtoo Abbot, Pai^ton, Totnes, Brixham, Dart-
mouth, Buckfastteigh, AJshhurton, Exeter, Ports-
mouth (two exchanges, connected by local trunks),
3oK)Dmbe,,Chriatchuicb,BouineiBOath, Poole, South-
cester, Newport, Pontypool, Cardiff, Penarth,
Barry, Pontypridd, Aberdare, Merthyr, Tredegar,
BritoD Ferry, Fort Talbot, Momaton, Neath,
Swansea and Llanelly with each other, and also
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 15. 1892
63
with Birmingham and Wolverhampton, and other
Midland towns of the National Company's district.
(2) Pljrmouth, Plympton, Ivybridge, Totnes, Paign-
ton, Torquay, Newton Abbot, Brixham, Dartmouth,
Buckfastleigh, and Ashburton. (3) Portsmouth,
Southampton, Winchester, Bournemouth, and Poole.
The above comprises 500 route miles, and 2,330 miles
of wire. Exeter is on the eve of being included in No. 2
group. The lines to that city from Torquay will be
completed this month. The number of communica-
tions on the company's trunk lines have increased
from 284,886 in 1888 to 650.500 in 1891, and, taking
tbe latter year as an instance, the trunk communi-
cation between towns only averaged l^d. eacb.
From Weston-super-Mare to Worcester, all within
the company's district, is 150 miles by the route
taken. The following statistics will be interesting :
TBIKPHOIIIC COXXUVIOATIONS OR IfXSSAOBB.
Tmnk.
1886.
1886.
1887.
64,676
1888.
284,886
1889.
860,608
189a
498.820
1891.
&&0.600*
Local 1,193,834 1,942,044 2,811,426 8,909,866 4,963,944 6,046,168 6,606,000*
^^■^^^^■^^^^■w ^^^^^^^m^^^^mm ^^^^^^^^^t^^^m ^^^^^^^^^m ^^ ^^^^^^^^^^a^^ ^^l^a^^^^^^i^^^ mwm^^t^^^mm^m^^^
Total .... 1,108,384 1,942,044 £,866,102 4.194.742 6,333,462 6,643,488 7,166,600*
^iSSIPj^^ £8,780t £9,014 £16,660 £21.846 £26,803 £82,837 t
« Month of Deotmber, 1801, Mtimated. 1 16 monihs. t Accounts not completed.
Wire mQeage on Slat December, 1800.— Exchange and private lines, 2,836.
Tnmk lines, 2,182. Total, 6,018 mUes.
The company has erected a signal station at
Bame Head, which is a prominent point seven
miles from Plymouth, and is the nearest land to the
Eddystone Lighthouse. This they have connected
*with their Pljrmouth and Devonport exchange
system, and they hope to open this signal station
for signalling to and from ships passing up and
down Channel, or entering or leaving the port of
Plymouth, this month. The Plymouth exchange is
connected with the post office in that town by
telephone, and arrangements are being made with
the Fost Office by which telegrams can be received
at Plymouth and telephoned to Eame Head and
thence signalled to ships or vice versa. The station
will be open continuously day and night and
Sundays.
Sydney F. Walker. — Mr. Walker writes a
characteristic letter, which contains much that
some people think but are afraid to say. We give
the following extracts : ** With regard to work, I
have been fairly busy during the year — not
as busy as I should have liked — but it has been in
my own specialities. London firms, and young
firms hailing from nowhere, have been so anxious to
secure contracts at something less than cost, if the
work was to be carried out properly, that as I could
not afford to lose money, nor to do bad work,
I am waiting till the clouds roll by for the
showy part of the business. So far as I can under-
stand, tne present problem in electrical engineering is,
not to ^et work, but to make a satisfactory profit,
considering the amount of labour and skill required.
What with having to stand by your work, no matter
what comes against it, to stand tbe loss involved by
slips of — some other fellow — the little eccentricities
Qsiially adopted by electrical engineers when they
get a chance to put a spoke in the wheel of a rival,
and the cost of tendering, the Ufe of an electrical
enf^ijieer on his own hook '* is not a happy one."
With regard to the matter of tenders, I have
partly carried out the plan sketched in the article
1 contributed to your columns. Where a tender
involves expense, I do not tender unless within
a certain radius of Cardiff, imless I am paid
for it, except, of course, in special cases
where there is a reasonable hope of return.
As a result, the tenders I have given during the
year have been much reduced, and my business is
considerably healthier in consequence. The cool
enquiries one gets at times tinder the pretence of
asking for tenders are exasperating in the extreme.
In some cases, it is not too much to say that they
are on a level with some of the swindles that are
frequently exposed in the papers. A man out of pure
curiosity wants to know what it would cost to light
his town or village. Another has water power a little
way off, steam here, something else there. He is
not sure what he wants — doesn't know the power of
his fall, what steam he has, or, in fact, anything ; but
he will condescend to let contractors spend time and
money coaching him up in their views, finding out
all that he ought to pay an expert for, and finally
perhaps he will — think of it another tinie. It never
occurs to him that if you asked him and several
others to give you, say, a truck load or 1,000 tons
of the material he sells, on the chance of your
buying some later on, that he would open his eyes
very wide indeed. So far as I am concerned, except
under the conditions I have named, or in special
cases, some other fellow will do the tendering.
CORRESPONDENCE,
" One num's word 1b do man's word,
Juitloe needs that both be heard."
STEAM ENGINE ECONOMY.
Sir, — It is said by one of your contemporaries in last
week's issue, that in a report to the Portsmouth Town
Council Prof. Garnett has stated that the Parsons turbo-
generator is now " as efficient as the best compound engine
of the marine type, and that for light loads it stands un-
equalled." The authority for these statements is said to
be the report by Prof. Ewing, F.R.S., published in your
paper for last week.
Those interested in the " best compound engines of the
marine type " (as electric light engines) will no doubt take
care of their own credit, but the continental users of direct-
coupled condensing engines of this pattern will perhaps be
surprised to hear that a plant which uses 27 '61b. of water
per electrical horsepower per hour, when working con-
densing, is formally stated in a report by the electrical
expert of one of the most imjiortant English towns to be as
efficient as their own.
Our concern is with the statement that " for light loads
it (the turbo-generator) stands unequalled." We beg to
assure Prof. Garnett that there are no figures in Prof.
Ewing's report which bear this out. At low temperatures
the turbo-generator is, for obvious reasons, relatively a more
efficient machine than an expansive steam engine ; but at
no power quoted (not even at no electrical load, at which
even an alternating station can hardly want to run) is the
consumption nearly so low as that in the best Willans
engines with direct-driven dynamos — of course, when the
latter were working condensing. At full load the consump-
tion of the turbo-generator reaches, as above stated, to
27 '61b. per electrical horse-power, a figure usually surpassed
by the Willans n<m-condensing engine. In many recent
trials of a Willans condensing engine (of much smaller
power than the turbo-generator tried at Newcastle ; in fact,
indicating only from 30 h.p. to 40 h.p.) the consumption
per indicated horse-power per hour has been about 12 '81b.
of steam. With a combined efficiency of 80 per cent,
which is the lowest we are accustomed to get with good
dynamos, this corresponds with 161b. per electrical horse-
power per hour.
These figiu'es, which are recent, are probably not known
to Prof. Garnett, but Prof. Ewing's report speaks of pub-
lished trials with a Willans engine, in which tbe consumption
was about 251b. per unit, or, say, 18'61b. per electrical horse-
power. Yet Prof. Gkirnett totally ignores these figures from
an actual engine (compared with which those of the turbo-
generator are aJtmd hdf as large again), and makes compari-
son with nothing but an engine of a kind which no one in
this country would be likdy to use, whereas the Willaaa
64
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 15. 1892
ei^ine is lued in England (for oontral atatioiu} to the extent
probably of 2 h.p. for 6r«ty 1 h.p. of all other kinds of
engines put togeuier. Thus in the comparative eetimatea
stated to have been drawn up for the guidance of the town
councillors, the cost of an installation of turbo-generators
is compared with that — not of Willana engines, or of any
other form of direct-driven plant — but with an absurdly
obsolete plant, consisting of engines " making not more
than 90 revolutions per minute, coupled by endless rope
gearing to dynamos making 300 revolutions per minute." —
Yours, etc., WiLLANS and Kobinson, Limited.
Jan. 13, 1892. C. S. Essex (Secretary).
OUR PORTRAITS.
Kapp, QistMrt, H.I.O.E., BI,I.E.E. Born at Mauer,
near Vienna, in 1852 ; erlucated at the Polytechnic School
n Zurich, where he studied under Zeuner and Kohlrauach,
and gained his diploma of mechanical engineer. For some
years Mr. Kapp was engaged in purely engineering work,
coming into contact with electrical work at the Vienna
Exhibition. It was not till 1882 he made bis 6xed resi-
dence in England, having been travelling on the Continent
and in North Africa for some years. In 1882, however,
we find him engaged with Messrs. Crompton and Co.,
and he soon began to make his name known in the pro-
fession. Since then Mr. Kapp has been connected either
in conjunction with others or individually in taking out a
number of patents. His name is intimately connected with
the development of the dynamo, with compound winding,
and with electromagnetic measuring instruments. A large
number of exceedingly practical papers have come from his
pen, and his work on " Transmission of Power," published
by Whittaker and Co., has passed through several editions,
and is acknowledged as the text-book on the subject. At
the present time Mr. Kapp is completing a monograph on
" Dynamos, Alternators, and Motors," to be published
shortly by Messrs. Biggs and Go. In 1665, Mr. Kapp
severed his connection with Messrs. Crompton and Co,
and for a period undertook the London editorship of
Induslriei. When, however, the principal office was
removed from Manchester to London he left the paper,
and has since devoted his whole attention to the business
of a consulting electrical engineer.
Albrlgiit, J. r,, C.E., H,I.E.B. Born in Birming-
ham, 1S57; was educated as an engineer, partly at the
Crystal Palace Engineering School, and subsequently three
yean as pupil with the late Sir J. Bazalf;ette. In the year
1880 Mr. Albright entered into electrical work with the
Swan Companv at Newcastle-on-Tyne. His fint employ-
ment was on tne " Servia," and afterwards he took charge
of the company's exhibits at the 1S82 exhibition at the
Crystal Palace. For a time Mr. Albright was with the
amalgamated Edison-Swan Company, and ultimately took
chai^ of this company's contracting department, a position
held till the spring of 1884, when he entered as a partner
into the firm of Messrs. R. £. Crompton and Co. When
this firm became a limited company, Mr. Albright became
managing director. Our acquaintance with Vh. AlbrighL
dates back to a time previous to his entering the
ranks of the industry, and each step in his career
has shown him to possess the true instincts that combine
to maks a first-rate man of business. We fancy be
would be the first to repudiate the view that electrical
work necessitated too great a deference to mere theory,but
would maintain that practical considerations more often
regulate commercial production than do theoretic ones.
Quite recently Mr. Albright made wbat may be called a
tour of the world, with a view of opening up new fields for
the company's productions, and of extending the branches
already existing. Besides his connection with the parent
company, he is chairman of the Crompton-Howell Storage
Battery Company, and a director oE the Crompton Supply
Company of Australia.
Gordon, J. Z. H., U.I.C.B., M.LX.X., born in 1852, is
the son of thelatoDr.J.A.Gordon.F.RS. He waseducated
at Eton, King's College, London, and (Wibridge, where be
took his B.A. degree in mathematics, subsequently working
under Clerk Maxwell in the physical hboratory. In 1878
Mr. Gordon accepted the appointment of assistant secretary
ti) the British Auociation, an appointment, however, which
he held only two years, for he soon became interested in
the construction of dynamos. The outcome of this work
H'aa bis dynamo constructed by the Telegraph Construction
und Maintenance Company at Greenwich, which paved the
way for the Paddington installation, under Mr. Gordon's
system. The plant at Paddington was started on April
alst, 1886, and is still at work. It was. however,
decided by the company with which Mr. Gordon had been
working not to continue electric lighting work, so he
made arrangements to form the Whitehall Company,
an installation which subsequently formed the nucleus of
bhs Metropolitan Company s undertaking. Mr. Gordon
was elected a director of the Metropolitan Comjiany at its
formation, afterwards retiring and throwing all his energies
into consulting and contracting work. Mr. Rivington
joined Mr. GoMon, and the firm registered the business as
a company in 1890. Of late Messrs. J. E; H. Gordon and
Co. have been very active in installation work. A descrip-
tion of their Carlow (Ireland) installation has been given in
this paper, and their latest work at Sydenham, wbere a fine
central station has been built and equipped in a very short
space of time for the Electric Installation Company,
Rookeiuaim, Anthony, Za.I.X.E. Bom, and educated,
at Gratz in 1852. Like most successful electrical engineers,
Mr. Beckenzaun was originally trained as a mechanical
engineer. Coming to England in 1872, he entered the
employ of Messrs. Ravenhill and Miller, afterwards Messrs.
Easton and Anderson. While with Messrs. Easton and
Anderson he qualified as a teacher under the Science and
Art Department, and established evening classes for the
employes. Subsequently he attended lectures at the
School of Mines, and at Finsbury. Feeling a great
interest in electrical matters, Mr. Reckenzaun made a
thorough study of the apparatus at the Paris Exhi-
bition in 1881, then joined the Faure Company, but
soon after accepted the position of electrical engineer
to the Electrical Power Storage Company. Here he
turned his attention to traction, a oranch of the
industry with which his name has since been inti-
mately connected. Storage batteries have also been care-
fully studied, and their capabilities investigated. In
fact, Mr. Beckeuzaun has perhaps done more than anyone
to show, by his practical work, and by various papers, the
value he piaces upon storage batteries in all kinds of elec-
trical work. He spent a year or so in America, successfully
Bghting the fight of such batteries. More recently he has
been closely allied with Mr. Binswanger, with the Keys' Com-
pany, and, lastly, with Messrs. Greenwood and Batley. Mr.
Reckenzaun has reached his acknowledged position as one
of our foremost experts in batteries and traction, because
of the painstaking industry and skill with which he investi-
gates every problem connected therewith.
Gray, Robert Kayo. Born 1651, in Glasgow.
Educated at the Greenock Academy, University School
and College, London, and in Paris. In 1S69 Mr. Gray waa
on the staff of the late Sir Charles Bright in the capacity
of a telegraph engineer, and was employed in the West
Indies. In 1871 he transferred his services to the India
Rubber, Gutta Percha, and Telegraph Works Company,
acting as engineer and electrician. He has remained
with the company ever since, gradually rising to the
post of engineer-in-cbief. Since he has been with
the company i/tr. Gray has taken part in a number of
cable- laying and repairing expeditions in the West
Indies, and on the coasts of North and South
America, In this connection we may mention that the
" Dacia," one of the India Rubber Company's cable ships,
was fitted throughout with electric light so far back
as 1879. We believe that she was the first ship to be
completely lighted in this way. Of late years, Mr. Gray
has not been so intimately connected with the engineering
branch of cable enterprise, or, in fact, any electrical work,
as with the management of the business operations con-
nected with the direction o! cable and other companies of
the boards of which he is a member.
THE ELECTRIOAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 15, 1892.
65
CENTBAL LONDON
RAILWAY.
The accompany in;; ina[i
will show our roaders the
magnitude of the proposed
work, and the diatrict it is
iatended to aerro. There is
no donbt that the traffic in
London is of vast magnitude,
and that the openinB up of
new routes gives little or no
relief to the old ones. In
fact, the traffic seems to in-
crease quite as fast as new
routes are opened. The
Exploration Company, which
has taken the initiative in
this proposed work, baa en-
deavoured to educate the
public and to explain its
views by isaning an admirable
map with deecriptions of the
railway. From their map the
one given by ua has been
prepared. An examination
of It will show the propoeed
dep6t at Shepherd's Bush,
and the various stations,
taking them in order from
the depAt, show the direction
the line will take. Thus we
have Shepherd's Bush, Lans-
downe-road, Notting Hill
Gate, Queen 's-road, Weat-
bourne, Marble Arch, Davies-
street, Oxford-circus, Totten-
ham Court-road, Bloomsbury,
Chancery - lane, Newgate-
street, Cornbill, with an ex-
tension to the Liverpool-street
Station of the Great Eastern
Railway. There is a vast
population to be served by
such a line, and we cannot
see any reason, if the matter
be managed with a due regard
to economy in construction,
why this line should not be
eminently satisfactory. It is
proposed to work it electri-
cally, thus obviating many of
the troubles which arise from
the use of steam. But ws
shall have much more to say
on the scheme at a future
date. Meanwhile, the map, as
we say, will tend to show what
is the intention of the pro-
moters. It also indicates the
route proposed to be taken
by the other underground
railways for which Bills have
been deposited in Parliament.
Thus we have the Baker-
Street to Waterloo line ; that
which is to run between
Hampstead and Charing
Cross ; the Waterloo and
City line; and the City and
South London extension to
The Angel, Islington. It
la for from likelv that all
these schemes will be passed
doring the ensuing session,
bat that most of them will
beootne accomplished facts in
the course of a few years is more than probable. A
nilmy between North and South London is badly wanted,
I so is a line between the West and the City, i
I from Waterloo to the Mansion House.
66
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 15, 1892.
INDIAN TELEGRAPHS.
From the Grovernment resolution on the report on
Indian telegraphs during the (mst year, it appears
that the additions to the system were 1,791 miles of
line, 7,373 miles of wire, and 21 miles of cable. At
the close of the year there were in operation 37,070
miles, 113,512 miles, and 251 miles of line, wire, and cable
respectively ; 168 new offices had been opened during the
year, bringing the number to 3,103. The gross receipts
for the year, including State-paid messages, amounted
to 68,28,855 rupees, and working expenses to 46,88,802
rupees, showing a profit equal to 4-126 per cent, on
the capital outlay. The receipts from telegraphic money
order advices have steadily risen from 46,000 rupees in
1888 to 84,000 rupees in 1891. During the year excellent
work was done by the Department in laying field telegraph
lines. The Sikkim line was maintained, as also that in the
Chin country. A new line in the Assam section of the
Chin-Lushai country was laid for a distance of 59 miles,
through a most difficult and unheahhy country. The
working parties suffered severely from sickness, one
officer losing his life and another being invalided.
For the Hazara expedition 182 miles of extra wire had
to be laid to connect Hussan Abdul and Abbottabad with
the bases of operation at Derband and Oghi, and from
those points onwards 103 miles of field wire were laid and
15 offices opened. The receipts of the telephone companies
at Calcutta, Madras, Bombay, Kurrachee, Moulmein, and
Bangoon show a small increase of 10,657 rupees, while the
number of subscribers is now 1,004 against 961 in the pre-
vious year. The charges per word between India and the
Straits Settlements have been reduced, partly by reductions
in the Indian terminal and transit rates, and partly by reduc-
tions in the Eastern Extension Company's rates. The transit
rate claimed by India for messages passing between Europe
and the Far Elast was largely reduced. By the connection
of the French lines in Tonquin with China, a new and
cheap route for messages to the latter country vid Siam has
been opened. — Times,
NEW FLEXIBLE HETALUC TUBING.
A new kind of tubing, of interest to steam power users
and electrical engineers, is being manufactured by the
Flexible Metallic Tubing Company, of 48, Parker-street,
Holborn, W.C.
The tubing is flexible, and is made in a machine from
metal strips of the necessary length, width, and thickness,
according to the purpose for which it is required. In
passing through the machine the strips, which are of steel,
galvanised steel, or otherwise, have formed upon one side
two corrugations in a longitudinal direction, one being large
and the other small. The corrugated strip is then coiled in the
form of a spiral round a mandrel, this operation being so per-
formed that the small corrugation enters the large corruga-
tion and interlocks with it. This forms what is known as a
piston joint. The tubing, which is unaffected by ordinary
liquids or gases, has been tested both at high and low
pressures — steam up to 601b. and hydraulic up to 1,0001b.
to the square inch. The tubes are made from Ain. to 3in.
internal diameter, and plant is now being laid down for the
manufacture of tubes up to 12in. diameter. This kind
of tubing is now in use for a variety of purposes,
including for gas and steam pipes, compressed air,
speaking tubes, and also as sheathing for electric light
cables, whilst it can likewise be used for running ordinary
house leads. A special type of coupling, which will not
give way under the pressures mentioned, is used for joining
lengths of tubing.
A Chance for Amatonrs. — An idea that is worth
consideration and imitation has been started at Chicago to
induce all the amateur electrical societies to combine in
making a united exhibit at the exposition. It is quite
possible that among much " tinpot electrical inventions
Bomething really go^ and useful might be discovered.
PBACTICAL INSTRUMENTS FOR THE MEASURE-
MENT OF ELECTRICITY.
BY J. T. NIBLETT AND J. T. EWEN, B.SC.
II.
(Continued from page 17,)
Units, continued,
OhUy continued. — In addition to the foregoing recognised
values of the unit of resistance, a new value has recently
been proposed by the Electrical Standards Committee
appointed by the Board of Ti-ade,* Its value is equal
to the resistance of a uniform coluum of pure mercury of
1 square millimetre section, and 100 30 centimetres long,
at a temperature of Odcg. C\, this being taken by the Com-
mittee as most nearly approaching the absolute theoretical
value of the unit. It will i>robably be known as the Board
of Trade or the Imperial Ohm, and is likely to be made
the legal unit of electrical resistance for this country by an
Order in Council under the Weights and Measures Act.
In order to show the relation of this unit to the various
others given in Table 1, page 17, of the issue of 1st
January, we reproduce this table below, with the Board
of Trade Ohm included in it.
Table 1.— Relative Values of the VARiors **Ohms."
Description
1
Leogth of
mercury
column 1 aq.
mm. section
and at O^' C.
Values expressed in terms of
"Ohm."
B.A. Ohm.
Legal Ohm.
True Ohm.
Siemens Ohm
Centimetres
100 00
104-82
104-93
106 00
106-27
106-30
! 106-34
1
0-9541
10000
10010
10113
10139
1-0141
1-0146
0 9435
0-9889
0-9S99
1-0000
1-0026
10028
10033
0-9411
B A Ohm
0-9664
KohlrauRch Ohm ...
Legal Ohm
0-9874
0-9975
True Ohm
1-0000
Board of Trade Ohm
"Baltimore "Ohm..
10002
1-0006
Volt, — The fundamental definition of the unit of Elec-
trical " Pressure," Diflference of Potential, or Electromotive
Force (usually written E.M.F.), the Volt, is the Electro-
motive Force which is generated in a conductor when it
is made to cut across magnetic lines of force at the rate
of one hundred million (10^) per second.
Unit Electromotive Force can also be defined in terms
of the units of Resistance and Current, thus : One Volt
is that Difierence of Potential which must be maintained
between the two ends of a conductor whose resistance is
one Ohm, in order to keep a current of one Ampere
flowing steadily through it.
The E.M.F. of a newly made-up Daniell cell is about
1*1 Volt, and that of a Latimer Clark standard cell
varies from 1*471 to 1'435 Volt with a range of tem-
perature of Odeg. C. to 32deg. C.
Ampere. — The unit of Bate of Flow of an electric
current, the Ampere, is that current which will flow
through a wire having a Resirtance of one Ohm, when a
Diflference of Potential or Electrical " Pressure " of one
Volt is maintained between its two ends.
A current of one Ampere will deposit in one hour
1174 grammes or 18116 grains of Copper in a copper
electrolytic cell, and 4*074 grammes or 60*52 grains of
Silver in a silver electrolytic cell ; and will decompose
0*3357 grammes or 5*180 grains of slightly acidulated
water in the same period.
Ohm's Laic. — It will be observed that the second defini-
tion of the Volt, and the definition of the Ampere are
merely two different statements of the same thing ; and
the Ohm could also be defined in precisely the same terms.
All these are simply statements from different points of
view of the well-known Ohm's Law, which in its simplest
form may be shortly stated as follows :
The current in Amperes flowing through any conductor
is equal to the difference of potential in Volts between
any two points in this conductor, divided by the resistance
in Ohms between these two points.
* See Electrical Engineer, September 11th, 1891, page 262.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 16, 189-^.
«y
Thus, if C be the current in Amperes flowing through
any circuit ;
E the difference of potential in Volts between
any two points in it ;
and R the resistance in Ohms between these two
points; then
E=:CR;
and R = ?.
C
This law was originally enunciated by Ohm in the year
1827 as the result of a series of experiments carried out
by him, and it has since been verified by investigations
made at the Cavendish Laboratory in Cambridge.
Wait. — The electrical unit of Power, or rate of doing
Work, the Watt, is the electrical unit which corresponds
to the mechanical term Horse-power, of which it is simply
a sub-multiple. The power transmitted by the current, or
the energy developed in the circuit, when a current of one
ampere flows through a conductor whose resistance is one
ohm, is termed one Watt.
1 watt is numerically equal to 1 ampere x 1 volt ;
or if C represents the current in amperes,
E „
„ electromotive force in volts.
R „
„ resistance in ohms.
and W
„ power in watts.
in any circuit ; then
W = C X E ; and from Ohm's law
we may write
W = f X E = f ,
R R
is
and W = C X CR = C-R.
Expressed in terms of the mechanical unit, one watt
»^ riir*'^ ^^ * horse-power,
= ~J-T-x— = 44 25 . foot-lbs. per minute.
/46
Thus, if a current of C amperes is flowing through a
circuit whose resistance is R ohms, the total diflerence of
potential being E volts, then the power developed in that
circuit is =
fl! I Watts ;
Electrical
Horse-power.
746
J<nde, — The electrical unit of Work or Energy, the JovlVy
expresses the work performed, or the heat liberated, in
one second when a current of one ampere is forced through
a conductor whose resistance is one ohm ; or, in other words,
one Joule represents the work done per second in a circuit
in which a power of one Watt is being developed.
Thus, if in addition to the quantities represented in last
paragraph,
J represents the energy in joules,
and T
))
„ time in seconds,
then
J «.WT,
= CET,
E^T
" R'
= C2RT.
»quival(
mt to ^ ^^'^^^ - 0-7373 foot-lbs.
746 X 60
Coulomb. — The unit of Quantity of Electricity, the Coulomb,
is the quantity of electricity carried in one second past
any cross-section of a conductor through which a current
of one ampere is flowing. An ampere is therefore equal
to a coulomb per second, or a coulomb is equal to an
ompere-Becond.
Thus, writing Q for the quantity of electricity in coulombs,
and taking the other values as in the last two paragraphs,
we have Q = 0 T,
= ET
R'
The coulomb is chiefly used in connection with electro-
chemistry.
(To be continued.)
ELECTRIC DRILLS.
The portable electric drills with flexible driving shafts,
made by MM. Sautter, Harl^, and Cie., illustrated here-
with, have been used in considerable numbers in ship-
building yards, arsenals, and boiler works. They are
equally serviceable in large works for the construction and
erection of bridges, mining work, the construction of
railway lines, and so forth. It may be said that their use
is advisable in any case where it is easier to mount the
tool on the work than to take the work to the tool.
Further, this machine tool is capable of being used not
only for wood and metal drills, but with other machine
tools and polishing brushes.
MM. Sautter, Harl6, and Cie. have made these electric
drills part of their regular manufacture. The following are
particulars of these tools given in the Revue Industridle.
Every installation of this kind comprises essentially a
dynamo, one or several electromotors to which the tools
are adapted by means of flexible shaftingj and the necessary
conductors leading from dynamo to the motors. The con-
ductors are generally supported by porcelain insulators
fixed on poles at distances of 30 to 50 yards. The dynamo
is fixed at the centre of distribution, though sometimes the
dynamo used for lighting is used concurrently for the trans-
mission of power. The electric pressure varies according to
circumstances, usually between 50 and 120 volts ; that of
70 volts is most ordinarily used. Connections which are
easy to make and unmake lead the current by means of
insulated twin wires to electromotors which drive the
machine drills by the intermediary of flexible shafting.
Figs. 2 and 4 represent the arrangement adopted by
MM. Sautter, Harl^, and Cie. These are of two types.
The dimensions of the smaller model are shown in the
illustration. The following are the further details of this
type, and of the larger one :
No. of revolutionB per minute of the motor 2,000 2,000
„ „ „ of the shafting 475 450
Power in watts absorbed 700 1,100
Weight 681b. 1031b.
As is seen, the angular velocity in revolutions per minute
of the motor is very greatly reduced in the tool itself by
spur gearing.
In the special case of the application of electric drills to
shipbuilding, MM. Sautter, Harl6, and Cie. have worked out
a convenient system of conductors by means of copper
strips, F, fixed on boards run the length of the ship in
construction; drums or posts, E, capable of carrying a
certain length of twin conductor, D (Fig. 1), are fixed ta
supports with double contacts pressing on the copper
strips, from which the current is drawn as desired.
In the usual case where overhead conductors are used, or
in special cases for shipbuilding, the twin conductors, D, of
12 or 15 yards length, are terminated by a connecting
plug, which can be inserted in one of two holes arranged
for this purpose in a regulating resistance-box, R, which is
furnished with a hand commutator. In the second plug-
hole is inserted the plug attached to one end of the twin
wire, G, four or five yards long, the other end of which
is attached to the terminals of the motor.
The resistance is used to regulate the difference of poten-
tial necessary at the terminals of the motor according to
the work in hand. It is also used to prevent the motor
overrunning when running light
The conductors are furnished with fuses at the dynamo
end, and at each branch. This avoids the burning of insu-
lation, or fear of the belt coming ofi in cases of accidental
contact of the conductors. Near the dynamo is usually a
switchboard with ampere-meter, voltmeter, cut-outs, and
field-magnet resistance, etc. Certain of the aAoontfy^v^x
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 1«, 1892.
such as cutouts, field-magnet reaistances, mDaaiiring
instruments, and so forth, are not indispensable, but are
always advisable in an installation of any importance.
A clamp suitable to each special case serves to fasten
the toolcairier, P, on the piece of work to be drilled, B.
The connection of motor to tool is easily made by means
of the flexible shafting, the motor standing on the floor or
in any convenient position. The feeding of the drill is
brought about by hand by the movement of the wheel, C,
In actual work the flexible is kept from too sudden
curves, more particularly in the vertical direction, as the
weight of the flexible tends to loosen coupling-piece at the
motor, and to separate the leather sheath from the threaded
socket. It sometimes happens that the cores of the flexible
shafting break at the extremities, near the sockets to
which they are welded. These breakages occur generally
at the moment the hole is pierced through, or when in
piercing sevwal sheeta of iron superposed, the tool bitea.
mounted on a threaded axle. A movable resistance stand,
with a wheel handle switch, gives complete control of the
gradual starting and stopping of the motor, and to some
extent of its speed.
The difference of potential (constant at the dynamo) and
the strength of current vary with the size of drill, depth
of working, nature of the metal, and pressure exerted on
the tool. The rheostat contacts are numbered 0 to 4, and
the various movements can be made with surety and the
avoidance of arcing at the contacts.
For iron and soft steel the tangential velocity of the drill
may be regulated by means of the rheostat at about 10 cm.
(3}in.) per second, and the pressure exerted by means of
the screw should be such that the feed is about ^ mm. per
revolution of the tool. For drills above 28 mm. to 30 mm.
(14in.) it is well to substitute worm gearing for spur gearing.
The core of the flexible shafting and the worm gear should be
preferably lubricated with thick grease from mineral oil.
Such drilling should be carefully done by screwing the
feed very gradually. The core is repaired in the following
way : The portion of the metallic core remaining in the
socket is first detached ; the broken steel wires are then
neatly cut with a metal saw, after having bound them
together of the section required, and the end of the core is
then strongly brazed ; this is then filed up to a conical
shape, fitting the inside of the socket. The faces
of both are carefully washed and wiped several
times to remove all trace of dirt or acid The core
is then tin-soldered firmly to the socket, having taken
care ^ain to remove all acid to avoid oxidation of the
wires. If a breakage occurs at any other part than at the
ends, repair is impossible. With workmen used to the
management of the testa breakages become rsre.
The following table gives the results of several testa
made upon an electric drill in the service of the Control of
the Marine.
It is best to use helicnidal lata or drills with very wide It is well to add that the pressures on the tool may be
edges, and to take care not to put too much pressure on notably increased when the drill is working intermittently —
the progresB is then much more rapid.
the feed.
The following table gives so
shafting and the tool carriers.
6 particulars of the flexible
Flexible Shafting.
DriU.
Haifmam diam-
eter of holes
Nonnal
lODgth of
Komberof
revs, of
flexible.
AveraftB nomber of revs,
of tool.
Spar gear.
Worm gear.
10 to 20 mm.
20 to 30 „
8Dto40 „
40to6S „
6ft.
6fL Qin.
6ft. 9in.
Bft. Sin.
660
475
400
140
105
90
80
48
45
27
These flezihie shafting are of the type employed in the
French navy, and are of FVeocb manufacture, M. Fonreau
having introduced them from America. The details of the
construction were given Revue IndMstrieUe, Oct. II, 1890.
Natnre of metal .. ..
Preranre in pounds
the toot
State of bit
Time retjaired to drill
holes Im. deep
Volts at terminals of
Cm-r«iit in amperes
Boergy eipeoded in
watts
soft SiemeDB.Martiti steel
Speaking generally, the figures given in this table show
that the energy expended and the duration of the work
vary according to the sharpening of the hit and the
pressure exerted upon it These differences may become
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 16, 1892.
69
more accentuated when working upon different metals, the
other conditions remaining the same.
Ordinary workmen, ana even labourers, very rapidly are
able to make good use of the electric drills. Practice has
shown that the relation between the two sets of tools one
working by band with ratchet brace, and the other with
electric drill, is as one to five or six ; the quality of the
work is at least equal to that of handwork. These
observations, made many times by the managers of
workshops, serve to indicate the usefulness of these kinds
of machine tools.
GLASGOW.
At the meeting of the[Conncil last week the question of the
working of the tramways by the Corporation arose for discussion,
about which the following information may be found interesting
as giving some idea of the views being taken by the Council. One
minute of the Tramway Committee reads that : " A sub-committee
met with a deputation from the directors of the tramway company,
consisting of Messrs. Young, Reid, Faill. and Pettigrew, witn Mr.
Duncan, secretary and manager, and Mr. Boyd Anderson, law
agent. The chairman explained at once to tne deputation that
the sub-committee had had the compan3r'8 letter before them, but
that the sub-committee have no power to do anything further than
to endeavour to make arrangements with the present lessees for
the acquisition of their stables and plant, or such portions
thereof as may be necessary for carrying on the working of
the tramways on the expiry of the lease. The deputation
urged that they should be informed what lines the Corpora-
tion propose to commence to work on the expiry of the lease
by mechanical haulage. The sub-committee, in reply, informed
the deputation that tney were of opinion that the subject of the
request has no relevancy to the matter which the sub-committee
are now prepared to discuss with the deputation, but that in any
case the sub-committee are not in a position to give the informa-
tion, as no resolution on the subject has yet been come to. The
deputation thereafter urged that till this is arranged the question
of the transfer of the company's stabling and plant should be left
over. They were informed, however, in reply, that any arrange-
ment on this latter point must be come to without delay, so that
the Corporation may know what stabling, car-sheds, and other
working plant they will require to provide themselves. After con-
siderable conversation, the deputation agreed that they would
consider what portions of their stabling and plant they would be
wiUing to sell to the Corporation, and would submit an offer of it
to the committee for their consideration. "
Another and subsequent minute reads: '*The sub-committee
appointed to prepare a statement showing the comparative cost of
working tramways by the various methods of haulage, reported
that they had considered the remit and the offers submitted by
the General Electric Power and Traction Company, Limited, and
by the Electric Storage Company, for working cars on the accu-
mulator system, ana that addin? thereto such other items as
seemed necessary to bring the whole cost of working by that
system on a parity with the cost of working by animal power, they
found there would be a saving of about Id. per car mile run on the
former as compared with the latter svstem. There was submitted a
communication, dated 22nd inst., from the Tramway Company,
making proposals whereby the Corporation might, if so desired,
acquire the whole of the properties and plant u^ by the company
in conducting the tramway portion of their business, or only certain
specified portions thereof. These proposals were remitted to a sub-
committee, consisting of Bailies Paton and M'Farlane, Councillors
Colquhoun, Stevenson, and Wallace, for consideration and report.
The sub-committee having considered the remit made to them by
the Tramways Committee on 22nd inst., and ha vine heard the town
clerk on the report by Messrs. Johnstone and Rankine on the con-
dition of the tramway lines, and as to what and when further
renewals will probably be required, resolved to recommend that
he be instructed to intimate to the company that the Corporation
hold them liable to implement the obligation imposed on them by
the lease, to hand over the tramways to the Corporation at the end
of the lease in as good working condition as when they were given
over to them, or otherwise to pay such sum as will enable the Cor-
poration to put the tramways in that condition. That sum is
estimated in Messrs. Johnstone and Rankine's report at £77,759."
Bailie Paton, in moving the approval of the minutes, said
there were various matters of great importance in them. First of
all, they had the report from a sub-committee in regard to the use of
electricity as a motor in place of horses. They had eone very
carefully into that matter, and with the assistance ot the City
Chamberlain they had prepared a careful statement, the result of
which was that practically they found the offer they had from the
General Electric and Traction Company enabled them to do the
working of the cars at Id. per car mile less than the cost in Glasgow
at the prosent time, ana l^d. less than the cost to the largest
company in London at the present time. One penny per mile on the
mileage run meant about £18,000 per annum, if they took into
coDsideration, also, that the receipts per mile would be greater, as
it bad been proved by experience where cars were work^ by elec-
tricity or cable they were always larger than where cars were
wOTked by horses, they would see there was considerable
room for saving in the future working of the tramwajre.
The committee would probably, in a short space of time,
recommend the Council to adopt, at least on a portion of the lines,
the working of the tramways by accumulator motors. The com-
mittee had had a meeting with the tramway company in regard to
the acquiring of the stables. They had a long ana very interesting
meeting with the company, the result ot which was that the
company had now submitted an offer to sell the whole or portions
of their plant and stabling. Which of these offers or an^ of them
would be entertained was a matter for future consideration.
They had remitted to a sub-committee to look carefully into this
matter, and submit a recommendation whether they snould buy
the whole or only certain portions, either of which proposals the
company seemed perfectly willing to entertain. Another matter
of vast importance was one with which the Town Council probably
had not hitherto been familiar— that was the report which had been
submitted by their engineer (Mr. Rankine) regarding the condition
of the lines at the termination of the lease. They Knew that Mr.
Rankine was an extremely fair man, and in the reports, with his
usual fairness, he had not attempted to make the lines either better
or worse than he bad good reason to believe they would be two
and a half years hence, at the termination of the lease. If the report
was correct, the tramway company would have a very consider-
able sum of money to pay the Town Council at the termination of
the lease. The committee had considered this matter very fully.
They had taken the advice of their law agent in the matter, and
they had no hesitation in recommending the Town Council to take
their stand on the report which they had received from Mr.
Rankine.
Hr. Talt seconded.
Questions were asked as to the exact position of parties at the
expiration of the lease, and it was explained that the *' lines " had
to DC handed over in as good a condition as when they were taken
over. The minutes were then agreed to.
THE ELECTRIC LIGHT AT PORTSMOUTH.
According to the Hampshire Telegraph, in accordance with the
instructions of the Electric Lighting Committee, Prof. William
Garnett has submitted to the Portsmouth Town Council an esti-
mate of capital and current expenditure and receipts for the
lighting of the district specified in Schedule B of their provisional
onler, and of the esplanade between the two piers. The estimate
LB based upon the assumption that in accordance with the recom-
mendations contained in his report of October 14th last, alternating
currents at a pressure of 2,000 volts will be employed for the trans-
mission of energy through the main leads, and that turbo-electric
generators, with surface condensers, will be employed. The
grammar school has been selected as the point from which the
tines of high-tension mains should diverge, and it has been
assumed that the distance of the central station from this point
will not exceed 500 yards. Prof. Garnett states that if it is impos-
sible to fulfil this condition, the extra cost of mains will be at the
rate of £2,700 per mile for the distance between the central station
and the grammar school. Concentric mains will be laid from the
central station to the grammar school capable of carrying sufficient
current for twice the number of lamps for which it is intended at
present to provide. These conductors together will serve all the
requirements of the station until lamps have been installed equiva-
lent to about 17,(K)0 lamps of 16 c.p. Concentric high-tmision
mains will be laid from the grammar school along the principal
thoroughfares mentioned in Schedule B of the provisional order
and Alexandra-road. Along the Commercial-road route as far
the comer of Lake-road, and to Southsea as far as the
corner of Osborne-road and Palmerston-road, high-tension
means will be laid capable of carrying about twice the
current for which provision is at present to be made at the
generating station. This will provide for the increased demand
which will occur when the system of mains is extended to North
End and the Beach Mansions. The cost of extending the Ughting
system in these directions, including high and low tension mains
and transformers, will be at the rate of about £2,600 per mile. For
the purpose of public lighting in the streets, instead of arc lamps,
placed at distances of 50 yards or more. Prof. Garnett prefers to
employ '* high efficiency " incandescent lamps of 150 c.p., fixed at
distances of about 30 yards. These lamps would be supplied directly
from thelow-tension conductors, and twoof them would requireabout
the same power as a single arc lamp. They would need to be more
frequently renewed than ordinary incandescent lamps, and this
has been taken into account in the estimate of annual expenditure.
If incandescent lamps are adopted, only very light columns will be
required for their support, and they will need no attention until
they require renewal, while the present lamp columns may be used
in most cases. Arc Lamps require expensive standairds, and cost
about £4 each per annum for carbons and trimming, if burning
until midnight only. As the conductors along tne Clarence
Esplanade will be used for public tighting only, so that all the
lamps connected with them will be switched on and off together,
and as no small lamps are required in this situation during the
whole night, it will be convenient to switch the whole of the Qghte
on and off simultaneously by means of a high-tension switch at the
point at which the esplanade conductors branch from the mains near
the Pier Hotel. On a public promenade the lighting up simultane-
ously of 90 powerful lights will be effective. For tne lights along
the Clarence Esplanade arc lamps are less unsuitable than in the
streets, but high-power incandescent lamps would meet the
requirements ot the situation. Though the capital required for
the installation of 8,800 private lamps and 200 public Um.^ \a
70
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEI!R, JANUARY IS, 1892.
BBtimaled at little more than £38,000, tha profenor reminds the
committee that it is dsairable that borrowing powers ihould be
obtained for a much larger sum, in order to enable extensiODH
to be mode to the ajiBtem from time to time, aa the pablio
may demand, without renewed application to the Local
Government Board. The cost of the site is on it«m not
included in the capital estimate, and no allowance has been
mads for the renewal of Umpe nsed for lighting the central
station, ioasmuch aa tke blackened lamps taken down from
the street columna ma; be used in the engine-room nntil
they are broken op. So long aa the number of private lamps
wired a less than the equivalent of 8,800 60-watt lamps, the
income will be lesa than the amount estimated, and the eipensoa
will also be lass, but not in the same proportion. There appears,
however, to be a reasonable margin to meet this differenoe, and if
the public lighting is undertaken at once tbe installation may be
expected to pay its working expenses and interest on capital
actnally invested aa aoon as the number of private lamps wired
exceeds 5,000. Prof. Garnett's estimate of the capital required
for high-Bpeed generating plant and incandescent lamps for
public lighting is £38,285. Ha ptacea the annaal receipta for
Eirivate and public lighting at £10,800, and the expenditure,
ncluding interest on £40,000 at Hi per cenL, at £7,572.
In presenting the scheme summarised above, the Electric
Lighting Committee reported at Tuesday's meeting of the Council
that they hod had reason to reconsider the acbeme prepared by
Mr. Sjboolbred for an electric lighting inBtallalion in tbe borough
and the recommendation based upon it, and they had obtained a
further report on the subject from Prof. Gamett, which they now
eubmitteo for tbe consideration of the Council. The committee
recommended that tha resolntion of tbe Council passed on
September 8 last, so far as it referred to the adoption of Mr.
Shoolbred's scheme, be rescinded, but that this should not apply
to so much of such resolution aa referred to the borrowing of
£60,000. They further recommended that the scheme and report
of Prof. Gamett be adopted, and Chat he be appointed as con-
sulting engineer, and that Messrs. Waller and Manville be
appointed as aoperintendent engineers ; the fee for the consulting
en^neer and the so peri n ten dent enKineers to be £1,500 together.
With tbe view of carrying out tbe scheme embodisd in Prof.
Oamett's report, the committee recommended that tbey be autho-
rised to acquire a sufBcient sit« for the central station.
Aldarman Kills moved the adoption of tha report and briefly
related the circumstances under which the committee abandoned
the plan submitted by Mr. Shoolbred for that now sabmitted to
the Council for consideration. He stated that Mr. Shoolbred
hod estimated the annual income to be derived from the electric
light and the expenditure at £8,939, lea^'ing a fair margin for
profit. Before a definite arrangement had been arrived at a
donbt arose as to whether Mr. Shoolbred had not over-
sstimated the revenue, and the committee invited him to
meet them and prove that his figures were correct. He
failed to satisfy them, and they h^ no alternative than to
dispense with his services, it being clear that he had not token
into consideration tha nature of the town he bad been called upon
to light. Prof. Gamett was called in tor consultation, and he ex-
pressed an opinion that Mr. Shoolbred's estimate of £10,000 was
£2,300 more than could be reasonably anticipated, it being
unlikely that they could earn more than £1 for each lamp wired.
Uoreover, it would be impossible to extend the light beyond the
area contained in the provisional order without ruinous cost.
Mr. B— In seconded the resolution.
Mr. Miliar observed that Prof. Gamett had been called in to sit
in judgmenb on bis rival's scheme.
AldannMi ■lUa : I object to that.
Mr. MlUar : You may object, but I shall say it If I happened
to be a professor I should do the same thing.
Mr. Baala : Right or wrong?
Mr. Millar : Yes ; I should try to crab my rivaL Continuing,
Mr. Miller said that the matter was of considerable importance,
for it involved the expenditure of £60,000. Only four months ago
the Electric Lighting Committee assured the Council that in
•electing Mr. Shoolbred's system they were perfectly right and
perfectly safe, and ha asked what justification had they now in
making a similar representation with regard to Prof, Garnett's
plan 1 He desired to know whether Prof. Gamett had had
experience in tbe matter of electric lighting, and whether he could
point to a town in which his system had been adopted in prefer-
ence to others. Undoubtedly electricity would furnish the light
of the future, but he thought that Portsmouth could afford to wait
and see what other towns were doing. He moved as an amend-
ment that the consideration of tha report be deferred to an
adjourned meeting of the Council a fortnight hence.
Mr. fnlljama* seconded the amendment, and said that when
Mr. Shoolbred's scheme was recommended for adoption be
seconded Mr. Miller's amendment that the matter be deferred for
three months. Tbey stood alone then, but events bad proved that
they were not wrong. Possibly, if thay adopted the new scheme
hurriedly, tbey might be led astray by Prof. Oamett, as they had
been somewhat ted astray by Mr. Shoolbred.
Mr. Usht asked what previous experiencA in tbe installation of
tbe electric tight waa poaaessed by Prof. Gamett.
The Marsr said tbe two men engaged with Prof. Gamett were
DOW effecting a public installation at Dublin.
Mr. Millar : Ah ! the man engaged with him.
The Mayor said tbe committee had adoptod Mr. Shoolbrad's
scheme on the strength of a report received from adeputetionwho
viaited Bradford. The deputation, of whom he was one, ware
delighted with what they saw of Mr. Shoolbred's scheme in
openUon then, but they ovarlooked the fact that Bradford waa a
compact town, with all its business honaes in one centre, whereas
Portemonth was a scattered borough, for which the low-t«nMon
system was wholly unfitted.
Ald*ruan XUla asked that before tbe amendment was voted
upon the Council wonld empower the committee to purchase a
site for the central station. It was necessary that the site should
be close to the sea, and In the neighbourhood that the committee
had selected there was hut one available site without a license
upon it, and that site must be purchased liefore the day waa out,
or it would be sold the next morning.
Tbe amendment was, however, pnt to the vote, when it was
carried by 16 to 12.
READING ELECTRIC LIGHTING.
The following report has been submitted t« tha CoudcU
by tbe Highways Committee on the question of electric
lighting :
The borough surveyor reported that it was suggested by the
Reading Electric Lighting Company that 30 l,2W)-c.p. lamps be
used. These lamps would take the place of 236 5ft. flat flame
burners, tha cost of which is as follows : Lamps lighted by
Corporation, £323. 15s. lid.; by Simeon's Trustees, £26; by Gas
Company (at their own expense, £5*. lOs. Sd. ; or a total cost of
£403. 6s. 5d. per annum for gas lighting, producing 3,776 c.p
before It p.m. and 1,408 c.p. after ifp.m.
The cost of lighting, cleaning, and maintaining 30 electric lamps
of lighting, c
£27. 15s. each, or £832. lOs. for 30. '
The cost of lighting cleaning, and maintaining 30 alectrio
lompe (seven years' contract), each giving 1,200 c.p. until II p.m.,
reduced te 16 c.p. after It p.m., or a total of 36,000 c.p. until
11 p.m., and 480 c.p. after 11 p.m., would be £22. 15e. each, or
£682. 10s. for 30 lamps.
Prom the above figures it will be seen that if electric lamps at
1,200 c.p. all night he adopted, the total cost of lighting the
streets sbowD would be about doubled, whilst the illumination of
the streets would be nearly 10 times greater than at present.
II tha scheme for 1,200-c.p. lamps, reduced 16-c.p. lamps at
he illuminating powe" ' " '■' '
times greater than at present before II p.m
of what it is at present after 11 p.m.
It must, however, be borne in mind that the electric tamps
would be three times farther apart, on the average, than the gaa
lamps, and, aa tha intensity of tbe light diminishes much more
rapidly thau the distance from it increases, the average lighting
of tbe streets would, with 1,200-c.p. lamps, be atrantfive times
greater than at present. The lighting at uie mtd-spacee between
the lamps would be slightly greater than at present.
With the 16-c,p. lamps the lighting of the mid -spaces between
the lamps would be much less than it is at present ^Mr 11 p.m.
I am of opinion that it would be much mora aoonomioal to
maintain the lamps at 1,200 c.p. all night than te reduce them to
16 c.p at 11 p.m.
I think, however, that a saving might be effected in another
way. The whole of the street lighting current for tbe 1,200-c.p.
lamps would, in any case, be carried by a set of oonducters used
for no other purpose, and as the lamps will be illuminated or
extinguished by uie turning on or off of the current at the gene-
rating station, it appears to me that full advantage could be taken
of all times of brilliant moonlight, thus saving electric current.
With regard to the quotations mode by tbe electric tight com-
pany, I find that for tbe St. Pancros electric lighting it has been
estimated that the cost of lighting and mainteining a 1,200-cp.
lamp would be 2d, per tamp per hour, or a coat per annum for
3,000 hours of £32. 10s.
This estimate of cost is borne out by the experience of place* in
which electric lighting has been carried out in a thoroughly
efficient manner.
A letter was read from the soticiter to ttie electric lighting
company submitting an alternative scheme and an estimate for
public lighting for the same area. The principal feature of the
scheme is a combination of the arc and mcandeecent systeme of
lighting; each lamppost will support one arc and one iocandeaoent
l^ht. Up till about II o'clock tbe arc lamps will be ligbt«d,
aod at that hour the incandescent lamps will M lighted and the
arc lamps shut off. This proposal appears to offer Uw advaotagaa
of a largely increased amount of lighting during tha earllar honra
of night, and during tha remainder of uie night nearly the same
as the lamps at ' present In use afford. 'The following is the
estimate for public lighting aa an alternative scheme to the
estimate already sent in to the Highways Committee :
Price per lamp per annum for 1,200-c.p. lamps burning up tilt
It p.nL, from II p.m. 16-c.p. lamps — 3,900 hours' lighting nr
annum if contract la given now, so that the public lighting mains
con be put in at the same time aj tbe private mains ;
If Corporation U .company
find lampposU. find lamppoals.
£ s. d. £ a. d.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 15, 1892.
71
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
EASTERN TELEORAPH COMPANY.
Report of the Directors for the half-year ended September 30,
1891, presented to the thirty-ninth half-yearly ordinary general
meeting held at Winchester House on Thursday.
The Directors snbmit the accounts and balance-sheet for the six
months ended September 30, 1891. The revenue for the period
amounted to £354,939. 58. 4d., from which are deducted £97,130.
ISs. Id. for the ordinary expenses, and £47,047. ISs. Id. for expen-
diture relating to repairs and renewals of cables, etc., d urines the
half-year. After providing £4,816. 5s. for income tax, there
remains a balance of £205,944. 7s. 2d., to which is added £313.
15s. 9d. brought from the preceding half-year, making a total
available balance of £206,258. 2s. lid. From this balance there
have been paid :
Interest on debentures and debenture stock £28,274 12 10
Dividend on preference shares 20,474 3 0
Two interim dividends of 2s. 6d. per share each on
ordinary shares 100,000 0 0
£148,748 15 10
leaving a bahuce of £57,509. 7s. Id., which is carried forward
to the next account. The revenue includes £33,398. 18s. 5d.,
dividends for tho half-year upon the Company's shares in the
Eastern and South African, the Black Sea, the Direct Spanish,
and the African Direct Telegraph Companies. The tramc over
oar whole system is satisfactory, and the revenue derived from
Australian telegrams since the reduction of tariff is developing
favourably. In accordance with the provisions of the articles (3
aseociation, two of the directors. Sir A. J. Leppoc Cappel, K.C.I E.,
and Lord Sackville A. Cecil, retire by rotation at this meeting,
and, being eligible, offer themselves for re-election. The auditors,
Mr. Henry Dover, and Messrs. Welton, Jones, and Co., retire, and
offer themselves for re-election.
Sir John Pender, K.C.M.G., chairman, presided at the meeting.
Before proceeding to the business before the meeting, the
CShalrmaii referred in sympathetic terms to the dark snadow
which had fallen on the Royal Family through the death of the
Duke of Clarence, and said that the news had been rapidly com-
municated to the vast Empire owned by this country through the
medium of that Company's lines. Turning to the accounts, he said
that their message receipts for the half-year ended September 31
last amounted to £321,135, as against £318,728 for the corre-
sponding period of the previous year, an increase of £2,407. Divi-
dends from their investments showed a decrease of £56. Interest
and transfer fees had fallen off £285. The gross revenue was
£354,939, as against £352,875, an increase of £2,066. The reduc-
tion of rates for European tel^rams, which came into operation
on July 1st last, he was glad to say had nearly been recouped,
thus showing that there was considerable vitality in their business.
Included in the accounts was the loss on five months' reduced
tariflfs to Australia. The reduction was still in force, and they
had only had eight months' experience of it. At the end of the 12
months he thought they would be able to make a very satisfactory
report on this head. They had already recouped some of the
sinaller losses by increased traffics in other directions than
Australia. They were, on the whole, verv well satisfied with the
result of the conference which was hela about 12 months ago.
He was hopeful that a considerable portion of the loss on the Aus-
tralian traffic up to the end of September, would be made up by
increased receipts before the end of the financial year. The total
expenditure for the half-year under review amounted to £97,130,
as against £91,793, an increase of £5,407. Included in these figures
was, however, the item for special repairs at Alexandria and Port
Said. The amount carriea to maintenance and ships' reserve
fund was £4,000, as against £2,500. The working expenses
showed an increase of £4,062. The amount paid Tor use of
{latents showed a decrease of £661, which was a permanent reduc-
tion, owing to some of the patents used by them having expired.
Cable renewals and repairs showed an increase of £15,570.
In 1890 this amount was exceptionally light, owing to their
flhipe being hired by other companies. Thev had laid in 129 knots
of new cable, the cost of which was included in the figures for the
half-year. They carried forward £57,509, against £78,196, or a
decrease of £20,666, but it must be remembered that the half-
year ended September, 1890, was, as regarded ships' expenditure, an
exceptionally favourable one. He would call their attention to
the important fact that notwithstanding the large additions to
their cable svstem during the last six years, the capital expendi-
ture under this head had remained since 1885 at practically the
same figure, in spite of the fact that they had laid over 7,000 miles
of new cable durmg that period. This half-year they had applied
from the reserve fund the sum of £105,110 in reduction of
capital expenditure. About 11 years ago shareholders were good
enough to sanction what was then calld an insurance fund. A
few months ago when he was addressing the Eastern Extension
Telegraph Company, he drew the attention of the shareholders to
an amended system which the Board were desirous of introducing,
and which at the present time was in the hands of the actuaries.
Probably youths were,- as far as fingers were concerned, better
for telegraphic work than older men. If they were to get good
people, they mast hold oat to them some UtUe bwefit ftt the end
of their arduous life. Thev thought to encourage thrift and
economy on the part of their employes by meeting them and
adding to the sum they might save, so that they might
retire with a competency at the end of their service. Great
confidence had to be placed in the men who worked their business,
and they must be ratner above the ordinary class, well-educated^
well-connected men, who had some feeling of respect for their
name and petition. They had also to bear in mind that a great
deal of tneir business was conducted in distant countries and
tropical climates, and never in very pleasant places, because they
had to have the bulk of their staff near to the place where the
cables were landed. Consequently, their employes led an isolated
life, and one which did not, lie thought, tend very much to health.
Therefore, they should be just and generous to these young
fellows who embarked with them, and were in touch with
them through the course of their working life. These
remarks having been received with evident approval, the
Chairman said he was glad they approved of the scheme, of which
he could not give them the details, as these were being worked
out most carefully. Their business was thriving. It was carrying
out what he always told them, that every day that they lived
telegraphy became a greater necessity. The world could not move
without it, and as the world grew so must telegraphy. That
Company was at the head of it. They still had some cables to
duplicate, and some money yet to expend, but they took care
before they spent the money to see where it would oome from.
Above all things, they were most desirous not to overburden
themselves with capital. When they took into consideration
the reduced value of money, and the fact that they
still maintained their high rate of dividend, he thought the
shareholders would be satisfied that their investment was good
and sound. It was believed to be so by the whole commercial com-
munity of this and other countries. Taking the last two years
and looking at the convulsions which had shaken the proudest
houses to their foundations, when they saw the great depression
that had followed in commerce, and when they saw the stock of
the Eastern and Eastern Extension Companies standing higher
than at any period of their existence, he could not offer better
evidence of belief in their property. Moreover, when they found
that their 4 per cent, debentures were at the present moment at
108 to 109— tnat was further evidence, that as debentures and as
an investment their property ranked probably in the first class of
investments. He moved the adoption of the report and acoounts.
The Blarqiiia of Tweeddale seconded.
Several shareholders spoke with pleasure of the scheme for an
employes' superannuation fund, and hoped the older men would
not be forgotten. In reply to questions.
The Chairman said that they were not forgetting the old men.
As to all their cables being in working order, they were above the
average in this respect. The Company was rarely without a
broken cable, but owing to their system being duplicated, the
public knew very little about such matters. A very important
break had taken place in the South African cable the other day,
and had they not had their ships in order to attend to it at
once the work might have taken two months — as it was, the
cable was repaired in five days. They repaired their own cables,
and some of other people's too. They never allowed their shipe
to lie idle if they could help it, and they never lost an opportunity
of making them earn the nimble penny. Last half-year (1890) they
earned outside of their own companies, by means of their shipe,
£22,000, and the year before, £15,000.
The resolution was then put, and carried unanimously ; as also
were motions re-electing Sir A. J. Leppoc Cappel and Lord Sack-
ville A. Cecil, directors, and Messrs. Henry Dover, and Welton,
Jones, and Co., auditors.
A vote of thanks to the Chairman closed the proceedings.
COMPANIES' REPORTS.
DIRECT UNITED STATES CABLE COMPANY.
The report of the Company for the six months ended Dec. 31
shows that the half-year's revenue, after deducting out payments,
amounted to £45,402, against £43,346. The working and other
expenses for the same period, including income tax, but exclusive
of cost of repairs of cable, amounted to £17,672, leaving a balance
of £27,729 as the net profit, making, with £3,502 brought forward,
a total of £31,231 For the corresponding period of 1890 the
working expenses and other payments amounted to £17,555.
Interim dividends of 3s. fid. per share for the quarter ended
September 30, 1891 (paid October 24, 1891), and of 3s. 6d. per
share for the quarter ended December 31, 1891 (payable Jan. 23,
1892), together amounting to £21,248, have been declared, and
after setting aside £5,000 to the reserve fund account, the balance
of £4,982 on the revenue account has been carried forward.
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
Xleotrlo FittlBgs, Hiring, mad MalntenaBoa CoiDpaaj,
Limited.— Roistered by Messrs. Ashurst, Morris, Crisp, and
Co., 17> Throgmorton-avenue, E.C., with a capital of £200,500,
divided int^ 40,000 ordinary shares and 500 founders' shares
of £5 and £1 respectively. The holders of the founders
shares may, at any Ume after such shares are fully paid.
72
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 15, 1892.
by a resolution pasaed at a meeting of snob holders, deter-
mine that each founders' share shall be subdiyided into
founders' shares of such smaller amount as the meeting may
determine, and thereupon the founders' shares shall be subaiyided
accordingly. As to the sum set apart out of the net profits of the
company as a reserve fund, one-half thereof shall belong to the
holders of the founders' shares, the other half to the holders of the
ordinary shares, and the balance of the net profits shall be divided
into two equal parts, one of which shall belong to the holders
of the founders' snares, and the other half to the holders of the
ordinary shares, and shall be divided among them in proportion to
the amounts paid upon the ordinary and founders' shares respec-
tively. The objects of the Company are to establish and maintain
cables, wires, tines, accumulators, lamps, works, and fittings of
every debcription for the generation, distribution, supply, accumu-
lation, and employment of electricity ; and to carry on business
as electricians, generators and suppliers of electricity, mechanical
engineers, manufacturers of and dealers in all kinds of apparatus
therefor, as iron, brass, and other metal founders and fitters and
metal workers ; to effect insurances against fire or accidents
arising from the employment of electricity. The first subscribers
are:
Shares.
A. Armstrong, The Albany, Piccadilly, W 1
B. H. Martindale, Bickley, Kent 1
W. Crookes, F.R.S., 7, Kensington Park-gardens, W 1
F. R. Reeves, Settle-heath, Potter's Bar 1
A. Palliser, jun., 21, Lime-street 1
H. Fleet, 4, Hayworth-road, Clapton... 1
J. W. Fricker, 14, Addison-grove, Croydon 1
There shall not be less than three nor more than seven Directors ;
the first are to be nominated by the signatories to the memorandum
of association. Qualification : £200. Remuneration : Chairman,
£400 ; deputy-chairman, £300 ; and ordinary directors, £200 per
annum each. An additional sum, equal to 5 per cent, on the net
profits of the Company after payment of 7 per cent, dividend,
shall be divided amongst them as they shall determine.
BUSINESS NOTES.
Dividend. — The Globe Telegraph and Trust Company announce
interim dividends of Ss. per preference share and Is. fid. per
ordinary share.
Catile Repaired.— The Eastern Extension Telegraph Company
announce that their Hong Kong-Bolinao cable is now repaired, and
telegrams can therefore be accepted for transmission to Manilla as
usual.
City and South London Railway. — The receipts for the week
ending 10th inst. were £858, against £748 for the corresponding
period of last year, showing an increase of £110, and a decrease of
£20 as compared with the week ending Jan. 3.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1892.
106.
100.
110.
152.
Januabt 4.
ImproTomonta in elootrlo awitobea. Wilson Henry Sturge,
12, Cherry-street, Birmingham. (Complete specification.)
Improvementa in telephone ezohange systenu. Abner
Mulholland Rosebrugh, 107, Mutual-street, Toronto,
Canada.
ImproTementa in generating and dlatrilmting eleotrioal
enericy. Rankin Kennedy, Carntyne Electric Works,
Shettleston, Glasgow.
HI, Improvementa in diatribnting and converting alternating
eloctrio onrrents, and in apparatna therefor. Rankin
Kennedy, Carntyne Electric Works, Shettleston, Glasgow.
Improvements in vnloaniaing the Inenlating covering of
elootrio oondnotora. George Gatton Melhuish Harding-
ham, 191, Fleet-street, London. (John Joseph Charles
Smith, United States.)
January 5.
improvements in electric drop light. Gwynne Ernest
Painter, 11, Wellington -street. Strand, London. (Com-
plete specification. )
An aleotrio regnlator. Edwin John Houghton and William
White, 28, Southampton-buildings, London.
Januabt 6.
Improvementa in magnetio apparatna. Walter Thomas
Goolden and Sydney Evershed, Woodfield Works, Harrow-
road, London.
A method of utilising eleotrioal energy for the heating of
water and otlier liqnida. Arnold Beaumont Woakes, 78,
Harley-street, rx>ndon.
A wall oontaot and ping fbr eleotrioal oondnotora.
William White and Edwin Percival AUam, 28, South-
ampton-buildings, London. (Complete specification.)
improvementa in or relating to joints and attaehmenta
for oonoontrio armonrad aleetrio oondnotora, and the
metiioda of making the same. Joseph Devon port Finney
Andrews, 41, Parliament-street, Westminster, London.
177.
207.
253.
259.
278.
310.
Januaby 7.
334. Improved fbrm of a dry galvanie element. Henry
Nehmer, 4, Graf ton-street, Gower-street, London.
355. Improvementa in or relating to the eleotro-deposition of
tin npon metala. Edwin Charles Furby, 19, Southampton-
buildings, London.
359. An Improvement in dynamo-eleetrio maohinea. Siemens
Bros, and Co., Limited, John Nebel, and William
Abraham Colling^, 28, Southampton -buildings, London.
360. Appliance for equalising the loada of the aeveral oon-
dnotora of rotary-phaee onrrent inatallationa. Siemens
Bros, and Co., Limited, 28, Southampton-buildings,
London. (Messrs. Siemens and Halske, Germany.)
372. Improvementa in aoldering, melting, and coating metala
by the aid of eleotrioity. Nicholas Benardos, 24, South-
ampton-buildings, London.
January 8.
406. Improvements oonneoted with eleetrio motora and aleotrio
elevator apparatna. The American Elevator Company
(Incorporated), 55, Chancery -lane, London. (Otis Bros,
and 0>., United States.) (Complete specification.)
407. Improvements in liquid eleotrodea. Edmond Savary
d'Odiardi, 55, Cornwall-gardens, London.
408. Improvementa in eleetro-inhalara. Edmond Savary
d'Odiardi, 55, Cornwall-gardens, London.
409. Improvementa in the eleetrio atatio epraya. Edmond
Savary d'Odiardi, 55, Cornwall-gardens, London.
410. Improvements in pnenmo-dynamometera. Edmond Savary
d'Gdiardi, 55, Cornwall-gardens, London.
411. Hagneto-voltaie eleetrode. Edmond Savary d'Odiardi, 55,
Cornwall-gardens, London.
January 9.
475. Improvements in apparatna for teating inanlatioa eleetrio
metera and altemating^onrrent motora. James Swin-
burne, Broom Hall Works, Teddington, Middlesex.
486. Improved variable reeietanoea for eleetrieal pnrpoaee.
Rookes Evelyn Bell Crompton, 55, Chancery-lane, London.
487. Improvements in meana or apparatus for producing
decorative, advertlaing, or other efltoots hy the aid of
eleotrioity. Rookes Evelyn Bell Crompton, 55, Chancery-
lane, London.
491. Improvements in and relating to undergronnd condnita
for electric wirea. Carl Axel Wilhelm Hultman, 18,
Buckingham-street, Strand, London.
495. An improved electric battery eleotrolyte. George Henry
Robertson, 47) Lincoln 's-inn -fields, London.
499. A new or improved dynamotor or oontlnnona-onrrent
tranaformer, and method of winding the field magneta
of snoh. Francis Murray Newton and Tom Hawkins,
Norfolk House, Norfolk-street, London.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1885.
12984* Working metala by eleetrio eorrenta. Do Benardos and
Olszewski. (Amended.) Is. 3d.
1890.
eleotrioal
pnrpooea. Birkbeck.
20838. Dry element for
(Henrichsen. ) fid.
21031. Secondary battoHaa. Davies. Is. fid.
1891.
1046. Prepaid telephonio meaeagea. Gould and Gottscbalk. 8d.
1639. Oondenaera for elootrio onrrents. Swinburne. 4d.
1680. Tranamitting elootrio eorrenta. Tavern ier. 8d.
4554. Armatnrea fbr eleotrioal machinery. Redfern. (Lahmeyer
and Co.) 8d.
4579. Kleotrio cigar lighten, eto. Binswanger and Smeeton. 6d«
19901. W«lding metala eleotrioally. Thompson. (Coffin.) 6d.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Brush Co «
— Pref.
India Rubber, Gutta Percha k Telegraph Co.
House-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James*
National Telephone
Electric Construction
Westminster Electric ,
Liverpool Electric Supply
{!
10
5
5
6
10
5
3
3|
2i
H
10
li
H
2i
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 22, 1892.
73
NOTES.
Leith Dooks. — A committee are considering the pro-
posal to introduce electric light at Leith Docks. «
Hawiok. — ^Messrs. Mayor and Coulson are lighting a
portion of the town of Hawick on contract as an experi-
ment
Far^ham.— The Fareham Local Board have decided not
to oppose the local company's application for a provisional
order.
Leeds Xleotrio Tramway. — Over 100,000 persons
have been carried on the Boandhay Park-road since the
opening.
DessaiL — At the Dessau central station a 120-h.p. Otto
gas engine driving a Fritsche dynamo is used, running at
150 revolutions a minute.
Weelwloh. — The undertakers under the Woolwich
electric lighting order have applied for six months exten-
sion of time for depositing the £1,000 required.
Mewepaper Idghtinc-— The DaUy Chranide have
now their offices lighted by electric light The installation
was carried out by Messrs. Paterson and Cooper.
Awerage Hours of Ughtiiiff. — ^At Darmstadt the
average duration of lighting for an incandescent lamp is
300 hours, at Elberfeld 700 hours, at Berlin 1,000 hours a
year.
■leotrical Portraits. — A speaking likeness of Dr.
Silvanus P. Thompson appears in the Eleeirieal World,
N.Y., for Jan. 9, with a very appreciatory account of his
scientific work.
Yorkshire College. — ^The first of a series of free lec-
tures in the People's EUdl connected with the Yorkshire
Ck>llege, Leeds, has been given by Prof. Stroud, D.Sc, on
•• The Telephone."
Sleotrlo-Ckiloiired Boy. — During a thunderstorm in
Maine, says a recent paragraph, the skin of a boy who was
struck by lightning turned to a dark purple, and has
remained so ever since !
yetolng the Trolley.— The Mayor of Brooklyn, U.S.,
has vetoed the proposed scheme for the introduction of the
trolley into that fashionable suburb of New York. It is
hoped to get his veto upset
PersonaL — ^The Queen has been pleased to approve the
appointment of Lord Bayleigh to be Lord-Lieutenant and
Gustos Botulorum of the county of Essex, in the room of
Lord Garlingford, resigned.
■leotrle Railways In Fraaoe. — The contract for
establishment of an electric railway between Veyrier and
Monnetier-Momex (Haute Savoy) has been entrusted to
MM. de Meuron et Cu6nod.
UttHsfng Niagara. — It is expected that the first
contract to be entered into by the company which is to
utilise the water power of Niagara, will be for the delivery
of power to light the city of Buffalo.
Xleotrio Taanlnsr. — We have received a pamphlet
with opinions of various authorities on the Worms et Bal6
process of electric tanning, published by M. A. Zwierz-
chowski, 32, rue Etienne-Marcel, Paris.
Instltntloii. — The inaugural address by Prof. Ayrton,
F.RS., president of the Institution of Electrical Engineers,
has, by reason of the lamented death of the Duke of
Clarence, been postponed till the 28th inst
Yarmoath. — ^Upon the statement by Mr. J. Harry
Palmer at the Yarmouth Town Council, that electric light
would cost twice as much as gas for the public lighttng, the
question was referred back to the committee.
Hammersmith. — ^The Hammersmith Vestry, after two
hours' debate, have given their consent to the provisional
order for the electric lighting of the district by the Putney
and Hammersmith Electric Lighting Company.
City and South London. — We understand that a
meeting of the shareholders of the South London Electric
Railway will be held shortly to consider the question of
the immediate extension of the railway to Islington.
Cleokheaton Town Hall. — The formal opening of
Cleckheaton Town Hall will take place on February lOth,
and the electric light, obtained from a 14-h.p. gas enginOt
has been installed, and will be used on the occasion.
Battersea. — A^ special committee of the Battersea
Vestry is considering the question of electric lighting, and
the Board of Trade has been asked to defer decision on
applications for provisional orders until the matter has been
dealt with by the Vestry.
Mntnal Teleiihones. — We have received the January
list of subscribers to the Mutual Telephone Company, of
Manchester, which indicates the continued energy and
increasing prosperity of the company. The list already
contains about 900 names.
Royal Soolety. — At the Boyal Society on Thursday
papers were read by Major Cardew, " On a Difierential
Electrostatic Method of Measuring High Electrical Resist-
ances " ; Prof. Schuster, F.liS., and A. W. Crossley, '• On
the Electrolysis of Silver Nitrate in Vacuo."
Moffat (N.B.)— The Moffat Municipal Authority had
the question of lighting the town by electricity before
them at their last meeting. The clerk was directed
to enquire upon what terms Mr. J. J. Hope-Johnstone, of
Annandale, will grant the dyemill water power for that
purpose.
Whitehall Glnb. — A dinner of the electrical engineers
who are members of the Whitehall Club is to be held on
Friday, the 29th inst, at the club. It is hoped that Mr.
Tesla will be present, unless the postponement of his
lecture from the 28th inst. to February 3 delays his arrival
in London.
Dewsbiiry. — At the meeting of the Dewsbury Town
Council held on Friday, the Gas Committee reported that
they had sent out circulars to 221 persons and firms, en-
quiring if they would take the electric light in case the
Corporation laid down a public installation, and only nine
had given assent
Jarrow. — At the monthly meeting of the Jarrow Town
Council on the 13th inst, it was recommended that the
town clerk be instructed to communicate with three or four
of the principal electric lighting companies in the district
inviting them to apply for permission to supply the
borough with the electric light
Proposed Kleotrio Railway In Paris.— The Prefect
of the Seine, says Dalziel, has received a proposal from a
firm in London for a concession to construct an under-
ground electnc railway in Paris on an entirely new system.
The subway would extend over 25 kilometres, and have
five branches, connecting all the chief points of the capital.
London Kleetrlo Railways. — Among the private
Bills which passed the eicaminers last week was one for the
extension of the City and South London Electric Railway
to Islington. In respect to the proposed Waterloo and
Boyal Exchange Railway there was no appearance on
behalf of the promoters, and the Bill was struck out of
the list
74
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 22, 1892.
Tamnton.-— At the monthly meeting of the Taunton
Town Council on the 13th inst., the proposed acquirement
of the properties of the gas and electric light companies
was discussed at some length, and ultimately the matter
was referred to the Streets and Highways Committee and
the Finance Committee, who will be merged for the con-
sideration of the subject.
Nottlnflrham. — ^The celebrated Castle Museum at
Nottingham is to be lighted by electric light. Mr. G. H.
Wallis, the curator, will show the rooms. Persons desirous
of tendering may send in sealed tenders and specifications,
to be opened at the next meeting of the Castle Museum
Committee. Further particulars of the curator, or of Mr.
Samuel O. Johnson, town clerk.
Lsrnton and Lynmonth. — The electric light is rapidly
becoming appreciated in Lynton and Lynmouth. Mr.
H. H. Benn, the proprietor of the works, has just installed
the light in the Devon and Cornwall Bank, as well as the
manager's residence — the first private house in the neigh-
bourhood in which the electric light has been adopted, and
the result is found very satisfactory.
Bt. Helens. — A Local Oovernment Board enquiry has
been conducted here by General Phipps Carey, partly
relative to the electric lighting of the Town Hall, which is
greatly desired. The town clerk explained that there will
be 335 16 c.p. lamps throughout the building, the engines
and dynamos being regarded as a temporary arrangement
until the whole town has the electric light.
LlTerpool.— The Watch Committee of the Liverpool
Corporation on Monday considered a memorial from 448
commercial firms in the city using the electric light, praying
the Corporation to consent to the application of the Liver-
Dool Electric Supply Company to extend the term of
purchase in the city to 42 years. The committee decided
that they could not grant the application in its present
form.
Lanfton-Frankfort Plant. — Recent statistics of the
figures obtained with the Frankfort transmission plant
show that the commercial efficiency was over 72 per cent.
The cost per effective horse-power was about £56. 10s., the
distance of transmission being, as will be remembered, 110
miles. It was half expected that there might be extra-
ordinary losses not deducible from Ohm's law, but the
results show that this was not the case.
Sherediteh. — A communication from the Gas Light
and Coke Company was read at the last meeting of the
Shoreditch Guardian Board, stating that the price of gas
would be raised to 3s. Id. per 1,000ft., an increase of 4d.
per 1,000ft. It was suggested that Mr. Joyce, the engi-
neer, should be consulted as to the employment of electric
light. The question was referred to committee in order
that they might consult with the engineer.
Waterford. — Tenders are required for the public
lighting of part of the city at present lighted by electricity,
and also in the alternative for the public lighting of the
entire city, either by gas or electricity, for periods of two,
five, or ten years, from September 1, for the Public Lighting
Committee. Tenders to be sent to Mr. Joseph W. Howard,
town clerk, by February 1. All information can be obtained
at the office of Mr. M. J. Fleming, borough surveyor. The
Mall, Waterford.
Tesla's Kzperlments. — During the past six months
Mr. Tesla has been hard at work developing the experi-
ments he gave before the American Institute of Electrical
Engineers, in the direction of important practical applica-
tions. Some of the points of his work are already
embodied in patents on incandescent lighting and on con-
deasen, MADy of the practical difficulties have already
been overcome, and it is hoped that ere long the results
may be seen in commercial use.
** £vil (Telephonic) Communications Coimpt." —
At Dundee the National Telephone Company sued John
Milne and Son for £8. lOs., rental of telephone. Mr.
Urquhart, for bis clients, stated that inefficient service was
given at the time of the day most required, and urged that
half the profanity amonst the Cowgate merchants was due
to the bad telephone service. It was by no means
improving to their morals. The case is being continued.
The Old Stndents' Association. — In accordance with
the announcement made at the last annual dinner Mr.
Reginald J. Jones has been obliged, owing to pressure of
professional work, to resign the hon. secretaryship of the
Old Students' Association. Mr. E. B. Yignoles has been
appointed as hon. secretary and hon. treasurer, and Mr. A.
E. Euddock as assistant hon. secretary. All correspondence
and subscriptions should therefore in future be sent to Mr.
E. B. Yignoles, 28, Lanhill-road, Elgin-avenue, W.
Kleotrio Leakage throngh Snow Contact. — Snow
has fallen so heavily in the districts of Oex, Nantua, and
Bugey, says DalzieFs correspondent at Lyons, that tele-
graphic communication has been suspended. Curious
phenomena have occurred at Culos, where electric light
wires have been so heavily covered with snow that a kind
of partial contact has been established, and a series of
lightning flashes between the diflerent wires has been
going on for some time, to the great delight of admiring
crowds.
Cantor Lectores. — ^Before the Society of Arts, on
Monday next, January 25, Prof. Forbes, F.R.S., will
deliver the first of his series of the Cantor lectures on
*< Developments of Electrical Distribution." Lecture I. will
deal with low-pressure supply ; comparison between 1885
and 1892 ; central station v. isolated plants ; electricity i;.
gas ; cost of feeders and mains ; management of feeders ;
use of recording apparatus ; house wiring ; three and five,
wire systems ; use of motor-dynamos as compensators ; and
use of batteries.
Contraction of Copper Mains. — A new cause of
interference of the electrie light supply has been found in
the action of frost. A drop of some 20deg. took place a
little while ago, it will be remembered, and at Bath the
light failed at this time, due, Mr. Massingham states, to
contraction and expansion in the joints of the main. The
Electric Light Committee of the Bath Town Council is to
make an exhaustive report upon the subject. It would be
interesting to hear if any other companies have experienced
difficulties from the same cause.
Klectric Canal Boats. — Electric motors for canal
boat propulsion has been often proposed with many
variants in design. A likely scheme is that described in
the N. Y. Electrical Engineer^ as proposed by Mr. Otto
Biisser. A stationary cable is laid along the bottom of the
canal. This cable passes over sheaves in the canal boat,
driven by a motor, the current for which is supplied by
trolley wires in the usual way. A peculiar feature is that
the installation is transportable, being fitted on the gun-
wales of the boat as it enters the canal, and removed at
the further end.
Glasgow Tramways. — At last week's Glasgow Town
Council meeting, Bailie Paton intimated that the Tramway
Committee had found that the offer of the General Electric
Traction Company would enable the Corporation to work
the tramways at Id. per mile less than it could be done
by animal power. This would be a saving of X18,000 a
year. It was proposed at the end of the lease, two and a
half years hence, to be^n to use electricity for some por-
MEfiLECtRICAL ENGINEER, JANTJART 22, 1891
7S
tiona of the lina. The committee were negotiating with
the tramway company for the whole or part of the stabling
and plant.
Faotorr Lighting.— The New York Milla, in Nidder-
Qale, which about three years ago were puichased by
Messrs. Thomas Gill and Sons, twine manufacturers, and
have since been rebuilt, are now lighted by the electric
light, the dynamo being worked by a turbine placed
Specially for the purpose, so that the mill machinery and
the electric light may be worked independently of each
other. The installation has been carried out by the Roper
Engineering Company, of Bradford, This is the first
instance of the electric light being brought into practical
Use in the district.
lire Alarms at Chiswiok.— The Cfaiswick Local
Board met last week to consider and, if thought expedient,
to accept tenders for the erection and maintenance of fire
ftlarm posts, calls, etc. Tenders were opened as follows ;
Koxburgh and Co., with telphonas £330, without X290;
Messrs. Blenheim and Co., with, £379 ; Messrs. Spagnoletti
and Crookes, with £415, without £365 ; Mr. F. E. Stuart,
\rilh£438. 17s,, without £368. 17s.; and the Home Tele-
phone Company, with £300, without £265. The Board
decided that Dr. Diplock, as captain of the fire brigade,
should consult with the surveyor on the tenders and report
to the Board.
St. Fanoras. — The arc lights at St. Pancras have
been turned on in Tottenham Court-road to the satisfac-
tion of the inhabitants and the members of the St. Pancras
Vestry, The turning on took place on Friday, and on Satur-
day in thesmall hours, the Electricity Committee, attended
by Prof. Robinson and Mr. Eccleston Gibb, made some
experiments as to the comparative intensity of lighting of
the electric light and the gas. The 12 Brockie-Pell arc
lamps were found to give considerably more light than the
85 gas lamps, besides rendering unnecessary some of the
gu lamps down the side streets. Euston-road, from Trinity
Church to Euston-square, haa been similarly lighted since
Tuesday.
Chester. — At the monthly meeting of the Chaster Town
Council, on the 13th inst.. Alderman William Johnson
moved, and Mr. J. J. Cunnah seconded, the adoption of a
recommendation of the Watch Committee that a sum not
exceeding £20,000 be voted for providing a iirst installa-
tion of the electric light for Chester. Alderman H. T.
Brown opposed the motion, on the ground that if the
matter were taken up by the Cor[K>ration all the risk and
lo68 would fall upon the citizens, and they should be taxing
the whole town for the purpose of making up the deSciency
in the working expenses for the beneBt of a few individuals.
This was evidently not the feeling of the Council, as after
considerable discussion the motion was carried by a Urge
majority.
Mining Engineers. — It is proposed to establish a
Londoi] Institute of Mining Engineers, having for its
objects the advancement and encouragement of the sciences
of mining, metallurgy, engineering, and their allied
industries, the interchange of opinions by the reading of
oommunications from members and others, and by discus-
Bions at general meetings, upon improvements in mining,
metallurgy, engineering, atid their allied industries, and the
publication of original communications, discussions, and
other papers connected with the objects of the institution.
It ia suggested that the institute should be lodged in suit-
able ofBcea, which might also be jointly occupied by the
Federated Institution of Mining Engineers. A S|>acious hall
for meetings and for the formation of a mining library is
aiao contemplated.
Uedlcal Bleotrloltr,— The Institute of Medical Elec
tricity has done useful work in introducing scientific
electricity to the medical profession, and the earnest work
of Mr. H. Newman Lawrence and Dr, Harries will certainly
not be lost. But we suppose the institution did not pay as
well as was expected, for it has lately been wound up
voluntarily. Mr. H. Newman Lawrence is carrying on the
same work upon his own account, and haa opened rooms at
36, St. Martin's-lane, where he is intending to continue to
treat patients by electricity and massage. Mr. Lawrence
has our best wishes, as although the subject is difficult
ground, his long work in attempting to apply electricity
scientifically to the relief of paralysis, the " cataphorie
medication," or dosing by electro-deposition of drugs, and
other matters, have helped to pave the way to better use
of electricity in medicine.
Edison Eieotrio Ri^way. — The announcement of
a novel and practical system of electric railway without
overhead trolley wires by Mr. Edison some time back
stopped, it appears, very many contracts for the trolley
system being compleleil, the street railway comjianies in
many instances preferring to wait until the value of the
Edison system was demonstrated. Mr. Edison has issued a
proclamation which will at any rate allay the fears of some
of the other street railway engineers. He has authorised
the statement that the new system is designed exclusively
for roads of heavy trafhc, in large cities, where the expense
of a fresh line is warranteil by the traffic, and where the
overhead trolley is not admitted. " The new system," the
statement continues, " will not be applicable, in a commer-
cial sense, to long roads running less than 50 cars simul-
taneously. It must, therefore, be understood that outside
of the large cities the best system that can be advocated it
the trolley,"
Inverness. — A committee meeting of Police Commis-
sioners was held on Monday to consider the question of
introducing electricity or extending the gas works by an
expenditure of £10,000. The gas manager recommended
that his scheme be modified to the extent of £2,300, bat
the convener of the Lighting Committee moved that the
original scheme be a<lhered to in view of the improbability
of the electric light being introduced. A motion in favour
of delay to allow further discussion of the electric light
scheme was moved by Mr. James Cook, Mr, Wm. Smith
read a letter from a firm of London electric lighting engi-
neers to the effect that the idea of generating the light at
the Falls of Foyers was out of the question for a town of
the size of Inverness, as it would lead to an expense of
about £50,000 ; and Mr. Smith argued that this was th«
only scheme which could be entertained, as the taking of
water from the Caledonian Canal would lessen the volume
of the River Ness, and lead to litigation with fishing pro-
prietors. After discussion, it was finally agreed to proceed
at once with the extension of the gas works, provided the
Police Commissioners are agreeable,
National Telephooes. — A meeting of the Executive
Council of the County Councils Association waa held on
the 13th inst. at the Guildhall, Westminster, Lord Thring
in the chair. Among those present were Lord Baring,
Baron Dimsdale, M.P., Sir John Dorington, M.P., Mr.
Littler, Q.C., C.B., and representatives from Bedfordshire,
Lancashire, Middlesex, Hertfordshire, Hampshire, Essex,
Surrey, Monmouthshire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire,
Gloucestershire, and Westmoreland. The Executive
Council considered the private Bill which has been
deposited in the Private Bill Office of the House -of
Commons for the purpose of affording "to the National
Telephone Company, Limited, additional facilities for con-
ducting the business of telejfhoiuc communication," and
7«
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 22, 1892.
reaolved "That the attention of the Local Gk>yerament
Board and of the Board of Trade be called to the highly
objectionable provisiona contained in the National Tele-
phone Company's Bill, and that it be suggested that the
subjects contained in it ought to be provided for in a Bill
introduced by a Gk>vernment Department.'' It was
arranged that the annual meeting should be held on the
17th of next month at the Ouildhall, Westminster.
An Xleotrloal Wog BelL — ^The port of Kavenna in the
Adriatic has recently^ says the Times, been provided with a
fog bell, the invention of the Abb^ Ravaglia, worked by
electricity. It is situated at the end of the mole leading
into the harbour, and the current is conveyed to it from a
battery in the Ughthouse about a kilometre distant. The
apparatus for striking the bell consists of a magneto-
electric motor planted in the bell tower, and connected to
a mechanical puller. When the current from the battery
passes through the armature of the motor, the motion of
the armature is caused to turn a disc having pins
projecting from its border. These pins catch on the
end of a pivoted lever as the disc revolves, and by
raising one end of the lever depress the other, thereby
pulling the bell chain and making the hammer strike the
outer rim of the belL A rapid series of strokes is the
result, and the loud continuous note is heard for a long
way. The battery employed is the constant form of
Daniell, and a galvanometer is kept in the circuit to show
that the current is of proper strength. A telephone circuit
also enables the attendant at the lighthouse to hear the
" drone " of the motor and thus know whether it is working
at its proper speed. Such an apparatus is, under certain
circumstances, cheaper, simpler, and more convenient than
a steam sjrren or a bell actuated by the waves.
Pontypridd, — A deputation from the Pontypridd
Chamber of Trade waited upon the Pontypridd Local
Board last week for the purpose of bringing before the
notice of the Board the lighting of the town, and urging
upon them either to purchase the present gas works or to
undertake the lighting of the town by electricity or some
other illuminant. The deputation was introduced by Mr.
H.S.Davie8 (president of the Chamber of Trade), who.stated
that in view of the ineffective lighting it would be desirable
to take over the lighting themselves. Mr. Leyshon, chair-
man of the Board, said he was glad the deputation had
waited upon them, as this would strengthen their hands.
It was understood that the gas company intended to spend
£2,000 on extensions. Councillor Roberts thought that [lar-
tial lighting by gas and partial lighting by electricity would
lead to difficulties. He agreed with the purchase of the
gas works. Mr. Snape said the capital of the present com-
pany was not sufficient to meet the requirements of the
district by properly enlarging the works. It was ultimately
decided that the gas company should be written to and
asked if they were prepared to treat with the Board for
the sale of the works, and it was further decided to engage
an expert to value the gas works. Perhaps, with further
information before them, the Board woiild not be opposed
to the introductiop of electric light as well as gas. At any
rate the present would seem a favourable opportunity for
bring forward the subject.
Sunderland. — A special meeting of the Highways
Committee of the Sunderland Corporation has been held
to consider offers for lighting with electricity that part of
the town comprised in the provisional order which was
obtained by the Corporation in 1891. Applications had
been invited by the Corporation from companies prepared
Co take over the powers, and two were received — viz.,
from the Brush Electric Supply Company and Messrs.
Andrews and Co., London. The former proposed to
take over the order with all its obligations on con-
dition that the Corporation assisted them to form
a local company, with arrangement for repurchase;
that the public l^hting should be given at such price
as should be arranged hereafter ; and that no concession of
any kind be granted to any other comi)any. Messrs.
Andrews proposed to take over the area mentioned in the
provisional order, to supply it with electricity for lighting
purposes on the alternating-current high-pressure system at
a uniform charge of 3|d. per Board of Trade unit, and to
pay the Corporation a rental of £100, together with a
royalty according to the consumption. They required pay-
ment for the goodwill if at the end of 21 years the Corpora-
tion wished to acquire the concern. The terms of both
offers were discussed, and it was ultimately agreed to
submit the same to Mr. Shoolbred, who had previously
been consulted by the committee with regard to the pro-
visional order, and to await his report
WalsalL — ^At the monthly meeting of the Walsall
Town Council on Monday, a resolution was proposed by
the Mayor, " That the Council carry out themselves their
electric lighting order of 1890, and that they proce^ to
provide an electric lighting plant on the lines suggested in
the report of Mr. Frederick Brown, A.I.E.K, at an esti-
mated cost of £21,450, and that the Electric Lighting
Sub-Committee be authorised to prepare and present for
consideration plans and specifications of the proposed
work, and a detailed estimate of the cost of the same." He
said that they had to establish the light in the town, and
the only question was whether it would pay. Mr. Brown
held that with 2,000 lights of 16 c.p. each, they
would realise £1,266 a year profit on the expenditure
of £21,000. He felt sure that this would be a step
in the right direction, and that it was wise to keep
the matter in their own hands. Birmingham certainly had
not done their own elentric lighting ; but Birmingham did
not always set a perfect example. Alderman Evans
seconded. The Mayor stated that the streets at present
proposed to supply were Digbeth, and Park, Bradford,
Bridge, High, Darwall, Lester, and Gk>odall streets.
Councillor Dean asked whether they would not at once
include the centre of Bloxwich ? Councillor Bowen sug-
gested the centre of the Fleck as well, while the Mayor
said that they thought it would be wise to deal with the
centre of Walsall first Alderman Lindop, in reply to
Councillor Powell, said that the plant might be completed
in about eight months.
City Llghtlnflr.-:-The directors of the City of London
Electric Lighting Company, in announcing the issue of
9,848 ordinary shares at 5s. premium, give some informa-
tion as to the progress of the City lighting. The two
generating stations at Meredith's Wharf, Bankside, and at
Wool Quay, Lower Thames-street, are both working. The
supply of current has been commenced from each, and the
erection of additional generating plant is being actively
proceeded with. Queen Victoria-street, Gracechurch-street,
King William-street, and Cornhill are ahready lighted, and
the work is so far advanced that the lighting in many other
of the main thoroughfares of the City will be commenced
in a few weeks. In consequence of the exceptional facilities
granted by the Commissioners of Sewers since their meeting
of December 1 last, the opening up of the main thoroughfares
has proceeded very rapidly, and the present rate of progress
isabout a mile a week. This will enable thecompany to reach
the best paying districts of the City at an early date, and the
earning of a substantial revenue will consequently be mate-
rially hastened. With reference to private lighting, they state
that since the lighting of the Mansion House from the
company's mains in December last the engineering staff has
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 22, 1892.
77
been continuoualy employed in connecting the premisea of
further customers. Signed applicatioiiB for about 13,000
lamps have been already receiveH, and are being added to
al the rate of 1,500 a week. Informal applicatione for a
large additional number have alao been made. With
reference to revenue, an encouraging statement is made.
For obvious reasons, they aay, it is necessary when estab-
lishing an electric supply station to provide a staff OMt of
pro^tortion to the amount of current at first delivered.
In spite of this drawback, however. Mi. David Cook, the
company's recently -appointed manager, reports the revenue
already being earned to be in excess of the current expendi
ture at the generating stations.
Aooiington. — The Corporation of Accrington having
obtained their provisional order for thesupplyof electric light,
a scheme for the erection of a central station, with the laying
of mains in the principal business thoroughfares, is now under
consideration. The Council have issued a circular mean-
while to the inhabitants, in which they say : " Before
establishing the central generating station, the Corporation
IB anxious to carefully ascertain what demand for the
supply of electricity can be depended upon in the district
in which the first mains are proposed to be laid, au'i as
yoar premises are within that district will you please
inform the Corporation whether you propose making use
of the light and to what extent. The Corporation being
desirous of affording information as to the probable cost of
rning the light, has consulted Mr, J. N. Sboolbred as to the
price of the electric light in Accrington, as compared to the
present price of gas. The price of the electricity to be
supplied by the Corporation is limited by the provisional
order not to exceed 8d. per unit The illuminating value
of a unit of electrical energy is about equal to that of 100
cubic feet of gas, so 10 units, with incandescent lamps
of 16 c.p. each, will produce an amount of illumination
about equal to 1,000 cubic feet of gas supplied by the
company. This electrical energy, if supplied at 6d. per unit,
is equivalent to gas at 5s. per thousand cubic feet. The
cost of supply will, of course, vary with the demand — the
greater the demand the less the CoqKiration will be able
to supply the light at. To add to the cost of the light will
be the meter rent at 10 per cent., as with gas meters,
unless the consumer supplies his own meter. The consumer
will, of course, provide his own internal fittings and lamps,
and as regards these he is advised to make bis own
enquiries, the cost of same vurying very much in the
character of the fittings, the position and number of lights,
and the internal arrangement of the premises to be lighted.
It may, however, he stated that in the case of new build-
ings the internal fittings for the light have been found to
coet about one-half that of gasfittings."
tTtiit Pole, — Mr. Chsis. E. Emery made some sensible
remarks with reference to unit |iole and lines of force in
the discussion on the recent paper on " Magnetic Reluct-
ance," by Mr. A. E. Kennelly. "In investigating the
formula! for the construction of motors and dynamos,"
says Mr, Emery, " it becomes quite evident that 4 ir is
nothing more or less than a simple arithmetical coefficient
which, in this connection, has nothing to do with its
customary significance as expressing the surface of a sphere
of unit radius. It is thought that this should be empha-
sised by writing the figures instead of the symbol, or, for
convenience of calculation, substituting a single special
character, for iostance 11, for it, and stating its numerical
value. The artificial conception that a line of forco
radiates froni a unit of surface of a sphere of unit I'adius
may be comprehended so far as the unit is concerned,
bat has not the slightest applicability in practical
work. The conception causes great difficulties in the
minds of students " — as well it may. The conception
which we should like to see adopted, that unit pole is that
produced by one line of force, on the other band though
interfering with the balanced theorisings of mathematicians,
would lead at once to simple explanations of most of the
ordinary phenomena of magnetism and induction. Thtf
metre itself, as Mr. Emery remarks, and we should do well
to remember in these discussions, "is nothing more or lest
than the distance between two marks on gold plugs on A
platinum bar," even as our own yard. He adds, " It must
not be thought that the use of absolute measure in electrical
formulae for proportioning dynamos and motors securs
absolute accuracy. There is apparently no numerical
coefGcient at the beginning of such formal» which can be
modified to suit the conditions, but allowances are neces-
sarily made at another stage of the calculation, as tbs
number of lines of exciting force must he 20 to 40 per
cent, in 'excess of those used across the armature." Ha
recommends the factor which Towle, engineer to the
" Great Eastern," said should be embodied in every
formula — K • common sense, There is a great deal in
this, as every practical designer of dynamos well knows.
Botary-Cnrrent Plant.^A complete " Drehstrom "
plant is now being installed for experimental testing at
Messrs. Greenwood and Batley's rooms in Albany-
mansions, Victoria -street, and has already been visited by
many electrical engineers. The plant has been brought
over from the Allpemeine Company, of Berlin, by Mr.
Henry Edmunds and Mr. Keckenzaun, and installed in tho
rooms plac cl at their dis[)05at by Mr. Black we II, of
Messrs. Greenwood and Batley, It has already undergone
some interesting tests at the hands of Mr. Kapp, and
has been shown by him at his lecture to the Royal
Engineers at Woolwich. The plant consisis first of an
ordinary continuous-current dynamo, driven as motor
from the Westminster mains at 105 volts, tho current after
having entered the armature of this motor being taken oS
to ring collectors connected at points ISOdeg. from each
other in the segments, this giving a three-phase currenL
The field magnets are excited by a separate wiie from the
mains, but the total current used, about 50 amperes,
passes through a single ammeter. Both field and
armature currents are controlled by resistances. The
three-phase current is led first to a reversing switch)
■ passing through the ammeter which registers one-third of
the total current. This ammeter, when wo visited the
plant, showed 29 amperes. The voltage between any two
of the three wires remains the same, and lamps can be
lighted on any two of the wires. The pressure was 5'J volts.
The three-phase current passes to a small rotary -current
dynamo having three collectors. In this jtarticular
S|>ecimen the current generates a rotating magnetic
field in the armature, which, reacting on a laminated iron
case surrounding it, rotates, and so drives another ordinary
dynamo connected to the motor abaft. This dynamo
lights 29 100-volt lamps. We understand that Mr. Kapp'a
tests showed the efBciency of the motor to be about 80 per
cent In the new form of motor which is being prepared,
the rotating field will be induced in the stationary field
magnet, and the armature will be a solid core dragged round
by tho rotary field. This form of rotary -current motor
has the advantage of doing away with the need of collectors
and brushes, the wires being connected direct to the
motor. The motor staits under full load. The B]>eed
of rotation at full speed is not quite synchionous U>
that of the supply motor, but lees a certain lag duo to
the mechanical friction. The plant is extremely interest-
ing, as being the first installatiou of the "Drehstrom"
motors in England.
'TH
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 22, 189S.
THB CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
The Exhibition it gradually approaching completion.
Chaos IB giving place to order, and in the machine depart-
ment especially a vast amount of work has been done since
our last issue. Almost all the stands have now machines
in running order, and the variety of gas engines will
prove a characteristic of the Exhibition. While, however,
we may admire the diversity of this class of engines, and
the eagerness to produce them shown since certain patents
lapsed, the engineer will turn with greater admiration
to some of the examples of steam engines at work.
Messrs. Davey, Pazman, and Co. have finished the
erection of the 260-h.p. engine driving Rapp's dynamo,
and at the time of our visit it was running with great
■moothness and without noise. Messrs. Easton and
showing ready-fitted suites of rooms than by showing
dynamos ; and it must also be remembered that the adop-
tion of .the liebt means the adoption of the dynamo. Hence
we should all support the enterprise of those firms who
have gone to the expense and trouble of showing how apt
a means of illuminating handsomely- furnished and costly-
decorated rooms is afibrded by the incandescent lamp.
Wo have already referred more than once to the well-
arranged exhibit of BleBBra. H. and J. Coop«r, designers
and decorators, of 8 and 9, Great Pnlteney -street, W.,
which will be found at Stand 203 in the South Gallery.
Owing to the fact that the suite of rooms shown by this firm
was complete down to the smallest detail on the opening
day, we are able to give a description of them in our present
issue. Later on we shall hope to publish some sketches,
which will give an idea of the design and decoration of the
different rooms.
The Dining Room.— Messrs. Cooper's Exhibit.
Anderson, too, are drivine Prentice's dynamos with their
engine. Crompton and Co. have a splendid specimen of
Crossley's gas engine going. Siemena's are using Willana
and Robinson's engines, and so on. Probably the Machine
Boom will be complete by the end of the month, when it
will be well worth a careful examination. In the body of
the building several stands are yet bare, some not even
commenced, and in the galleries much still remains to be
done by the art furnishers and decorators.
One of the characteristic features of this Exhibition will
be found in the upholstering department. A variety of
firms have furnished rooms with a special view to tneir
being lighted by means of incandescent lamps. It has been
remarked that visitors will probably prefer to wander among
these luxuriously-furnished roonu rather than among
the moving machinery in the Machine Boom. It must be
remembered, however, that if householders are to be in-
faeedtopatRHuae tbe electrio Ught, more will be done by
Though the suite has been erected with great care and
completeness of detail, the exigencies of space and position
have, as in the case of a theatrical stage, made it necessary
to play some tricks with actualities. So we enter through a
handsome grilled screen of wrought iron, which is worthy
of more than a cursory glance, and make our exit at the
other end of the suite, through a draped archway, whose
existence is easily blotted out by a slight effort of the
imagination. The suite consists of a dining-room, boudoir
and bedroom, each decorated and furnished in a different
style. We will begin with the dining-room, the dimensions
of which are 22ft by 15ft. It is a handsomely furnished
room with two delicately-draped windows overlooking the
Winter Garden. The table in the centre is laid and
looks provoktngly tempting. At the end by which we
have entered is the fireplace, arranged as an ingle-
noolE, of carved oak in the Early Renaissance style,
In the recees of this nook are cosy seats covered with
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER. JANUARY 22, 1892.
79
G«iioese velvet in Venetian design. Incandescent lamp>
in the oomen give a mellow light, and with a bright lire
on the hearth this would be just the place for building
castlw in the air, or for a tH«-ii-Ule with some congenial
spirit The walla are panelled with pictures of the
Flemish school, whilst the windows are flanked on either
side by armoor, which has a novel and striking effect.
Near the ingle-nook is an old-faahioned armchair, a repro-
duction of tbe eighteenth-century stvle, and marvellously
Gonifortable for bones of all ages. Tne chairs placed round
the dining-table owe their design to the times of good
Queen Anne, and are light and graceful in appearance.
Opposite the fireplace are massive carved oak entrance
doors, surmounted by a pediment carved with much spirit.
The floor, of patent removable parquet, is covered
with a fine Anatolian carpet The table, which, as we
have intimated above, is laid for dinner, is furnished
with Venetian glass, and seasonably decorated with
mistletoe. The centre-piece consists of a frosted branch
of hawthorn with binl and, if we mistake not, nest
also — which is not quite in accordance with the
Dsual course of things natural. The table is lighted by
cwidleaticlu fitted with imitation candles carrying incan-
deaceot lamps, and by other lamps ranged round the room
candlesticks of pierced bruswork, standing some 4ft. high.
Near the canopied divan stands a coffee-table with a top
consisting of one large circular Persian tile, the colouring
of which is lovely. A second coffee-table of Damascus work,
inlaid with mother-of-pearl and silver, stands in another-
comer of the room near the Mecca niche. The Gairene
apron-piece of the room has a tented roof, in keeping with
the Eastern character of the furniture and decorations.
The boudoir ia lighted from reproductions of antique
Arabian vases hanging from the apion piece. The floor is
covered with matting, over which are laid rugs and mats.
In truth 'tis a room wherein to listen to the 1,001 nights,
or whisper into sympathetic ears those soft nothings which
mean so much — a room full of rich colour, and yet a room
in which a tired mind and aching eyes might well find rest
From the boudoir, a doorway, the soffits of which are
supported by beautifully carved stalactite brackets, the
whole being draped with gold silk gauze, leads to a
bedroom, which may be termed an English rendering
of the Louis Quinze style. From the exclamations
escaping visitors of the fair sax on entering this
room, we may take it that " lovely " and " exquisite "
are the proper terms to apply to it The prinoipal
decorations are in salmon and white. The ceibng
A Corner of the Boudoir and Bedroom.-
'MeBiTB. Cooper's Exhibit.
•o u to light the pictnree. Taken as a whole, when lighted,
this room nai an appearance of cosiness and warmth which
dnwa frequent exclamations of delight from visitors.
Everything is tasteful and harmonious, and the lights are
judiciously placed so as to give a good effect without
intrnding themselves on the eye.
Yvoa the dining-room we pass into an Oriental boudoir,
which will assuredly excite covetous feelings in the breast
of many s fair visitor to the exhibition. Exactly
opposite us as we enter is a plaster cast reproduc-
tion of an Arabian niche, euch as is usually placed
in Eastern mosques to denote the position of Mecca. This
niche, with its gorgeous gilding, surmounts panels of rare
old Persian tiles of antique colouring. To the left of the
niche ia a specially designed window in the Arabian style,
the powerful colouring of which has been most harmoniously
blended. In another comer are divan seats with a canopy
of rich silk, upheld by inlaid Persian spears. The seats are
covered with fine embroidery and provided with embroidered
eoahions. In the wall close by is a beautifully designed
Arabian panel of very fine lattice work. A large wall panel
of plate glass, overlaid with gilt palm fret, adds much to
the beauty of the room. Beneath it is a seat in embroidered
Hooriih work, which is flanked by a pair of very fins Persian
consists of a large oval centre, hand-painted with cupidi,
after Boucher. From this centre-piece falls a silk draping
which reaches to the top of the Trails, somewhat after the
manner of a tented roof in the French style. The bed-
stead is white with carton pterre decoration, the centre
panel at the foot bearing hand-painted cupids in the same
style OS the ceiling centre-piece. The head is surmounted
by a canopy nearly reaching to the ceiling, of salmon silk
with overdraperr of white muslin, This canopy is caught
up by two cupids, while a third tiny fellow flying in mid-
air holds an incandescent lamp. The coverlet consists of
a handsome piece of embroidery, bordered with plain
figured silk. By the side of the bed stands a compact
little writing-screen, available for the composition of
those mysterious missives usually known aa billeli doux.
When not used for writing it folds up into a screen.
Messrs. Cooper have submitted one of these screens to the
Princess of Wales. The dressing-table is of a novel and
very elegant design, with bevelled mirror, also of uncommon
design. The draperies of the windows consist of salmon
silk, the valances of which are embellished by gold darts.
The fireplace is in mahegany, with Bartolozzi engravings
let into the panels, and fitted with a handsome pierced and
chased brass fender. On the otberside of theroom is a special
80
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 22, 1892.
fitment introduced bv Messrs. Cooper, with the idea of
doing away with muGh movable and bulky furniture in the
shape of wardrobes, chests of drawers, and so on. The fit-
ment contains wardrobe, drawers, shelves for books, etc.
The frieze over the wardrobe is ornamented with hand-
painted lunettes in the same style as the ceiling and^^he
bedstead. The door leading out' of the room is of ma-
hogany, the two upper panels having Bartolozzi engravings
with gilt mounts, and is surmounted by an overdoor with
(Mrton pierre decoration and more engravings. The door
furniture is of pierced brass. In one corner stands an
elegant easel, which the designers have named the
** Princess Christian," after her Boyal Highness. Messrs.
Cooper have supplied these easels to members of the Boyal
Family. The floor is covered with a Moquette carpet
in Louis Quinze style, with blue centre and cream border.
Finally, the lighting of the room has been carried out with
considerable l£ought and care, as, indeed, is the case with
the other apartments we have described.
Comparisons are notoriously odious, but we are relieved
of any necessity for making them by the fact that Messrs.
Cooper had their exhibit complete in every detail on the
opening day, and were alone in this respect Therefore no
^mparison with other exhibits could be made, if we were
inclined to institute one. Of this, however, we are
assured — ^viz., that electrical engineers should be grateful
to this enterprising firm for showing how beautifully the
incandescent light is adapted to the lighting of rooms
furnished and decorated with all the taste and skill which
has been lavished on the suite we have described. We
trust that Messrs. Cooper may reap the substantial reward
they so well deserve.
One of the largest and most important exhibits in both
Machinery Department and Main Transept is that of
Siemens Bros., Limited, and it will, we think, be not
only intensely interesting to electrical engineers, but also
one in which public interest will be most largely kept
up. This will accrue from the exhibition of the model
electrically-lighted tiieatre, which was shown in Frank-
fort; the daily demonstration is to be given of tele-
phonic curves and tones and an analysis of the in-
terior working of the telephone; the manipulation of a
50,000-volt current, strong enough to pierce ebonite 17 mm.
or glass ^in. thick, or give an arc of 12in. across water,
or light 500 100-volt lamps in series ; a new type of
transformer in the form of a length of thick cable;
an electric winch, electric passenger and dinner lift
in working order, to say nothing of the ordinary
sight of Siemens dynamos in working, motor-dynamos,
electric tools, a new system of automatic block signalling
for railways, automatic electric mine exploders, besides
telegraph and cable instruments in profusion. It is
perfectly evident all this cannot be described in one article.
We must begin with a cursory review of the salient
features in their order. In the first place — the dynamos. At
the Machinery Hall we see one of the large Siemens con-
^nuous-current dynamos, designed for 120 volts and 1,600
amperes at 350 revolutions, the ordinary standard type of
dynamo for central station work, as shown at the Naval
lixhibition. Three of these were there used, and all of
them have been since sold to the St. James's and Pall Mall
Company. This dynamo is not shown running. Of the
working plants we see an H B Siemens bar armature
dynamo, continuous current, for 120 volts and 450 amperes,
at 420 revolutions, as used for shiplighting, driven by a
Willans and Robinson closed type of engine, of 75 i.h.p.
Another dynamo of the same type, working in parallel, giving
120 volts and 200 amperes, at slower speed, 320 revolutions.
This is driven by an open-ty|>e Scott, Willans, and
Robinson engine. A fourth dynamo is a Siemens alter-
nator, not running, shown coupled direct to a Tangye
engine, making a '* ship set," as supplied to the P. and O.
boats, giving 105 volts 200 amperes at 200 revolutions. A
fifth dynamo is an alternator, which will be used for sup-
E lying current for the high-tension experiments ; these are to
e ready at the end of the month. The dynamo supplies 80
volts 500 amperes, driven at 420 revolutions by a Willans
O G engine. The current will be transformed up first 80 to
2,500 volts by the new " cable " transformer, and then again
by the large Siemens 50,000-volt transformer. This is the
highest ever attempted by a dry transformer — ie,, not
immersed in oil — and is five times that of the Deptford
transformers. It will give a spark of 2in. in dry air. The
capacity of the transformer is two amperes and 50,000
volts, or 180 h.p. In one corner of the exhibit is
an electric winch, which will lift five tons 90ft. a
minute. The motor is so arranged that the load
can be suddenly arrested without affecting the armature.
The efficiency is 93 per cent Specimens will be shown of
electric drills intended for piercing the sides of ships, the
frame of the drill holding on to Uie ship by its own mag-
netism. This will be shown in action, as also ventilators,
brushes, and other electric tools. A passenger lift to carry
10 persons, made by Way good, has been fitted with com-
plete electric gear, and will be working, raising visitors to
the jniUery. A dinner-lift will be in operation close beside
it. The transmission of power will be also shown by a motor-
dynamo, or continuous-current transformer, 100 to 800 volts,
lliis will supply current to the block system signals.
These will be of great interest to railway engineers. They
consist of cast-iron sleepers carrjring the rail, containing
contacts depressed by the weight of the engine ; the engine
thus automatically blocks its own line. Another applica-
tion of the motor is that of an electric fire engine of 30 h.p.,
Messrs. Siemens's own design. It will throw water by
electricity instead of steam, by being connected to the street
electric mains through contacts fixed near the standpipe.
The show in the Transept contains several arc lampposts,
a tall lattice mast carrying six arcs for lighting large areas,
and four posts for street lighting. Messrs. Siemens have
also six large arc lamps outside the turnstiles. Two large
showcases contain some magnificent s|)ecimens of their
electric cables, concentnc and single conductor. One of the
latter contains 1,000 square millimetres. The "cable" trans-
former mentioned is a novel piece of electrical apparatus.
It consists of a huge piece of cable about 5in. diameter and
10 yards long, like agreat hosepipe. This is the transformer;
it has a flexible iron core and two copper windings. The
length regulates the voltage, and they can be cut ofl* in
lengths to requirements. The one shown is to transform
2,500 to 80 volts, and of great capacity — 500 amperes.
Smaller ones, for house lighting could be inserted in the
main or hung up in a cellar. The model theatre is arranged
in the Pompeian Court. Here miniature stage eflects will
be shown — ^sunset, Alpine glow, moon eflects, sunrise,
lightning, and so forth — all electrically produced by incan-
descent lamps and electric motors, and controlled by one
man at one switchboard, placed on full view in front of the
stage. We have said enough to show the interesting
nature of Messrs. Siemens's exhibits ; further details must
be left for future description.
Conspicuous in the North Nave is the stand (No. 117) of
Messrs. Benham and Frond, of the Chandos Metal
Works, Chandos-street, Strand, W.C. Here are shown
specimens of very high-class metal work in the shape of elec-
tric light fittings, both for public buildings and private houses.
Among the examples exhibited are : A large nine-light
brass electrolier, the arms of which are repetitions of brackets
recently made for the ballroom. Government House, Ran-
goon ; an electrolier, with corresponding wall lights, mirror
bracket, etc., in finely-chased mercury-gilt work ; an elec-
trolier, silver-plated in the style of Henry IV. of France ;
a silver-plated bracket, a replica of those made for the
Royal room. Lyric Theatre ; two ceiling lights in copper
and brass, representing (1) a bouquet of flowers, (2) a group
of fan palms ; a bracket as now in use on the stage at
Terry's Theatre in " The Times " ; a wall light of quaintly-
embossed copper, in the form of an owl, the lamps being
introduced within the repouss^ work ; a number of ceiling
lights, electroliers, brackets, table pillars, girandoles, floor
lamps in gilt, silver-plated, copper, brass, hammered iron,
etc., the whole of which have been designed for,
and manufactured at, the Chandos Metal Works.
A model is shown of the ball and cross on St Paul's
Cathedral, made at these works, A.D. 1821, and adopted as
the company's trade-mark. Above the stand are examples
of weather vanes with lightning conductors attached.
In the Mediaaval Court, Messrs. Benham and Froud
have fitted up a representation of the east end of a verv
modern church, which is lighted electrically, We shall
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 22, 1892. 81
8pMim«ni of MeMra. B«DliHm and Fraud's Electric Fltitinf*.
8:2
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 22, 1892.
deacribe tbia exhibit fully in another issue. Meanwhile,
we give illustrations of some of theChaados fittingB.
Tile SpBtein Aoonmolator Gompanr, Sund 9, are
ezbibiting their make of secondary batteries. It may be
remembered that this is a modified Plants batter; ; the
formation of the plates is obtained by placing them in a
1 per cent, solution of nitric acid and water. We remember
having tried this method of formntion in 1882, but failed
to obtain satisfactory results ; hence credit is due to those
who have overcome the difficulties which haunted the
earlier experimenters. If we remember lightly, one
insuperable difficulty to us was that using Hat plates we
got an excellent formation, but in a very short time the
formed surface stripped from the unattached lead backing.
Mr. Epstein uses a slotted plate, and contends he obtains
by hie process a firmly adherent coating. His forming
solution is heated till it boils, and the boiling continued
till the plates [>resent a dull grey appearance. After which
they are dried in the air. Lead treated in this manner is
made to serve for both positive and negative plates. In
the process of forming positive electrizes, the former
grejrish-yellow colour changes into a deep dark brown,
almost a bluish-black hue, and the process is completed as
•con aa the elements have attained that colour and an
abondant development of oxygen has taken place. The
oxygen of tbe peroxide of lead produced on Che positive
elements which are to be changed to negative is absorbed
by the effect of tbe electric eurrent, and the bodies are
The normal maximum rate of discharge is given as 30
amperes per positive plate, and for short periods this rate
may safely be doubled. The capacity at the above rate of
discharge is about 120 to ISO ampere-hours per positive
plate; at half this rate the capacity is about 140 to 170
ampere-hours per positive plate. The liquid used is a 10
per cent, solution of sulphuric acid and *ater.
Our illustration shows one of the E 31 type, as shown
at the Palace. Other lighter and cheapei cells are manu-
factured, as will be seen by an examination of the lists of
the company.
MssBTS. W. WlggbiB and Sons, mica merchants, of
10, Tower-hill, and the Minories, K.C, have in the South
Qallery one of, perhaps, the finest exhibits of mica that has
ever been shown. It is evident that the firm have spared
no pains in preparing and arranging their stand, and, to
their credit, be it said, they were ready from tbe first. Here
will be seen some magnificent mica slabs, both in size,
colour, and geographical origin. They are from all quarters
of the world — viz., Bengal, Madras, Ceylon, Brazil, North
America, Canada, North Carolina, Labrador, Guatemala,
etc. The colours of the slabs comprise what are technically
known as ruby, pale green, amber, and black spotted, of
which ruby is the most valuable. The firm also show mica
worked up for different purposes, such as strips for dynamo
armatures and commutators, a use for which it has been
much employed of late ; alio turned washers, bushes,
compass cards, lightning protector strips, &nd lamp
Bpataln's Elemont,
reduced on their surface to porous metallic lead. The
prooew of forming negative elements is finished when the
deep dark brown, or bluish-bUck colour of the positive
element used for the purpose has changed into a bluish-
grer hue. It is said that only a few hours are necessary
to form a plate by this method.
In Epetein's form of electrode, which exposes a large
sorface, and which, when treated by his process, is said to
quickly acquire a considerable electrical capacity, the
increase in surface is obtained by deeply grooving both
ndes of the plate, as shown in elevation and section in our
illustration. The soft active material, after being " formed"
ia said to key itself between the ledges, and it does not
appear to fall off even if the bittery is roughly used. From
figures supplied by the manufacturers, Messrs. Woodhouse
ud Bawson, the following table has been compiled :
1
1
external
Working rate.
li
of box.
X'"'
¥
i-'
%
!l
n
It
Cbar^o.
DUcharge.
i
S-S
I§.E
Amp.
Amp.
1
R 3
02 lb.
IB
.1
I to 30
1 to 30
120 to 150
HI lb.
/<
1 » S(
1 „ ao
240 „ 300ll55„
;
1 „ fl(
1 „ BO
^60 ,. 450 22S,.
11
^, i> I
IS
1 „ 130
1 „ ISO
600 I 750
368,,
Epstein's Secondary Battery, R 31 Type.
chimneys. In a corner of the showcase a column of
turned mica may be seen. Being composed of several
different varieties, on looking through it the various
colours are seen the reverse way of the layers, and very
beautiful tbey look. This is a novel and interesting exhibit.
We advise our readers not to leave the Palace without
having a look at Messrs. Wiggins's stand in the South
Gallery.
Messrs. Jolinson and Ptaillips' exhibit will excite
considerable attention. Conspicuous among the many con-
spicuous objects at this Exhibition are the buoys shown by
this firm. It must, however, be with the less prominent
objects that we commence our examination of this stand.
One of the best known ai'c lamps of the day is that of
Brockie-Fell, manufactured by this firm. Specimens of these
lamps hang all round the stand, and ezteroally have the
appearance shown in tbe accompanying illustration. From
the point of view of the purchaser, this lamp ia
recognised as burning steadily, and giving a minimum of
trouble. One of the most recent departures of this firm is
in the manufacture of secondary batteries, they being the
manufacturers of the D.P. cells for Messrs. Drake and
Gorham. These cells are illustrated herewith. The pUtea
are formed on the Dujardin process, and ore rendered
active by a combined depositing and oxidising action per-
formed by electrolysis in an alkaline bath of nitrates
composed as follows : Ten kilogrammes of water, two
kilgrammes of sulphuric acid, one kilogramme of alkaline
nitrate (of soda, ammonia, potash, or other suitable alkali).
THE Electrical eIigineer, januart 22, 1892.
gi
By the passage of an electric current nitrate of lead U
formed, and hy the acid of the bath this is converted in a
continuous manner into sulphate of lead and afterwards
into peroxide of lead. In soma hours, without discharging
or revarsingthe current, the positive plates became covered
with an adherent layer of crystalline peroxide of lead,
which may be over a millimetre thick, and of great elec-
trical capacity. In order to increase and regulate the
formation of the salts of lead, it has been found that it is
useful to introduce lai^e volumes of air into the liquid.
This may be effected either by forcing the air into the bath,
by raising and lowering the plates, or by other convenient
means ; the reaction being thereby doubled whatever may
be the composition of the bath. In order to facilitate the
adhesion of the peroxide upon the plates, the latter
are constructed of laminated lead. In a few hours the
peroxide, which is formed at the expense of the lead,
fills the interstices in the laminated plate. A syste-
matic description of the exhibits will naturally group
around three heads — cable apparatus, which includes buoys,
grapnels, hauling gear, etc ; electric light generating appa-
ratus, into which come prominentty the various Kapp
'c light apparatus generally, including
; and electric
closed-circuit transformers engineers have neglected the
loss of power in the iron, and that as the loss in the iron
goes on all day and all night it is really very serious. They,
therefore, make a transformer which has very little iron,
for which they claim a much higher all-day efficiency. This
advantage cannot be obtained without some drawback. The
drawbacK generally urged in this case is the idle current
taken on open circuit. This does not represent power,
but it may be in some other respect troublesome.
Though the makers have never found this idle cuirent
give any trouble in central stations, they have foreseen
that there may some day be difficulties, and have therefora
sat to work to bring out commercial alternate- current con-
densers, which will be described separately. The ordinary
transformer, with its case, is illustrated herewith. In
addition to the ordinary transformer for housework,
special designs for other purposes are shown. Two forms
of street lighters are exhibited. One is the ordiniry
form with the stoneware case replaced by a light cover
made of roofing material. This is arranged to fix
on posts for town lighting, as at Chelmsford, or to
attach to walls as is usual in America. Each transformer
feeds into a low-pressure circuit which supplies a number of
Brockie-Pcli Arc Lamp.
storage batteries, transformers, m.itn8, switches, etc. Of
all these more anon.
At Sund No. 2 we find the exhibits of Messrs. 3win-
tmme and Co. The name of Mr. Swinburne is well
known to all electrical engineers, and his all-round experi-
ence is pretty extensive. Cradled in the works of Mr.
Swan, at Newcastle, his knowledge of all that concerns
lamps was obtained at first hand. Afterwards, in this field,
he attempted to walk alone, but found it better to associate
himself with the firm of Crompton and Co., where he neces-
sarily gained large experience in dynamo work. Mr. Swin-
burne paid special attention to transformers and measuring
instruments. Commencing business himself, he made a
speciality of the form of transformer which has been
Darned the " Hedgehog," because of the loose wires at the
ends, which remind one of the bristles upon the back of
one of the innocent denizens of our hedgerows.
As might be expected, then, this firm exhibits a number
of Hedoenog transformers. These transformers have been
the aubjsct (A so much discussion that little need now be
■aid abont them. The makers clum that in designing
1). P, Storago Cells.
lamps. This form is also used for arc lighting. In this
case constant- current transformers are used. These take
2,000 or 100 volts on the primary, and give 10 amperes on
the secondary. The trouble and expense of secondary leads
is entirely done away with. It is needless to say that an
arc lamj) will always burn more steadily with a constant
current than under constant pressure, and this condition is
much more easily obtained with alternate than direct
currents. In direct-current work it is usual to run special
arc circuits, or else to couple arc lamps in pairs in series
with resistance. In alternating-current systems, one high-
pressure parallel circuit can supply everything.
For incandescent street lighting, Messrs. Swinburne and
Co. exhibit a fitting which consists of a small transformer
with case, shade, and lampholder complete. This takes
2,000 or 1,000 volts, and has a 50-volt 32-cp. tamp.
The object oi this arrangement is to admit of street
lighting with incandescent lamps without special secondary
leads. In fact, it is very much as if Messrs. Swinburne
and Co. had brought out incandescent lamps for 1,000 oe
2,000 volts.
d4
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 22, 1892.
TBGE
tLECTRICAL ENGINEER.
Pnblished every Friday.
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Editorial and Pablishing Offices :
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Notes 78
The Crystal Palace Exhibi-
tion 78
1892 84
Correspondence 86
The Late Alexander Watt. . . 86
The Determination of the
Efficiency of Dynamos ... 87
Sydenham Electric Light
SUtion 89
Lecture on Electric Light
Sapply 89
London Chamber of Com-
merce. Overhead Wires,
French Customs ^Tariff,
Palace Exhibition 89
Modem Applications of
'Electricity to Metallurgy 92
Companies' Keports 94
Companies' Meetings 96
New Companies Registered 96
Business Notes 96
Companies' Stock and Share
List 96
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We had intended to conclude the review of the
past year with our last issue, but space was required
for more pressing matter, hence one or two questions
upon which it is desired to comment remain till now.
A sane man reading the ephemeral literature of the
day, as represented by the great London dailies and
the metropolitan and provincial weeklies, can hardly
realise that this is a time forming part of a civilised
era. At a moderate computation, one-half the papers
are dependent for existence upon quack advertise-
ments, plus those emanating from swindling com-
pany promoters. Of the latter we have often spoken,
of the former we have still to speak. There is a
tale told of two men walking down a street,
one a qualified medical practitioner, the other a
quack doctor. The former asked the latter why the
public deserted him with all his learning and experi-
ence to patronise the disciple of nostrums. Said
the latter : '' Your question may be best answered
through another, How many men possessing a
fjGkir share of common sense should you imagine to
exist ? Say per cent ?'* " About 5 per cent.," replied
the qualified practitioner. " Well, those five are your
patrons, the rest mine," said the quack ; and this, no
doubt, is pretty near the truth of the case. The
nostrums advertised find purchasers — ^yea, and pur-
chasers in large numbers, otherwise the quantity
of advertising would be lessened. For many years
quacks have sought to qualify their productions by
the adjective " electrical." Every ailment under the
sun is, according to them, to be cured by something
" electrical," or something " magnetic," which terms
for the nonce may be taken as identical. Those who
possess a rudimentary knowledge of electrical science
know that nine-tenths of the statements made by
these advertisers are altogether inaccurate. For the
moment let us refer tp another subject which runs
on parallel lines to the above. The editors and the
news purveyors to the papers are supposed to be
men of light and learning, to be men who desire to
leave the world in a better and a happier state than
they found it. Of course we assume that the
first object is to make their pile. Well, what
is the position of these learned purveyors of
mental pabulum ? Just this — that the most
atrocious statements are propagated with regard to
matters electrical, that a lie about such matters is
more likely to be believed than the truth. Men are
led to expect what they ought never to have been led
to expect, making it necessary in the interests of
progress to first eradicate the false before a lodgment
can be given to the true. The most mendacious
statements come over here, for example,' ticketed with
the labels of news agencies, from America. The
senders of the telegrams ought to be electrocuted ;
in fact, that punishment is too good for them — it
would require a Dante to suggest a suitable one.
Talk about a lying spirit being abroad ; that
is but a mild expression. Here is a sample
of the latest. Edison — and, mind you, these
purveyors always imagine their " copy " must
be taken if they can bring in the name " Edison " —
is said to have discovered a way by means of which a
" score or so of men '' can defend a {corloess against an
^ •*; li
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 22, 1892.
85
anny by osing a jet of water. That - statement has
been read by tens — even by houdredB— of thooBaodB
of scientifically ignorant readers, and, like all
nostrams, eagerly swallowed. One would think it
was a difficult task to ordinarily fill a newspaper
with reading matter, instead of the difficnlty being
how to deal with too mach matter. Every electrical
engineer knows what peculiar pranks yonng electri-
cians have played, and how men have danced and
ejaculated with amusing verbosity when undergoing
these practical jokes, but there is not one man
amongst them but knows the absurdity of such a
statement as the above. We wonder at the die-
semination of snch silly tales firom a politician's point
of view. If defensive works are necessary, say
those who read these items, why not employ the
cheap and efficient method "we are told a celebrated
electrician has discovered"? Why spend money
upon hoge works, upon guns, and upon a standing
army? By the bye, reader, did you ever try to
disabuse anyone's mind of the untruthfulness of
BQcb statements ? If not, pray try it.
Here, then, ore two directions in which the efforts
of the technical press are neutralised by the crass
stupidity of those who arrogate to themselves the sole
right of belonging to the "journalistic profession."
They permit quacks to entice the public to buy and
use nostrums, and they carelessly or wilfully permit
their columns to be the vehicles for the propaga-
tion of the most astonnding electrical paragraphs
that the mind of man can invent. One of our
contemporaries in England has made, and often
repeated, attacks against electrical quackery,
but its efforts must fail, because its readers are not
those to be easily caught, and those easily caught
ore not among its readers. What is the use of a
parson declaiming to those present forming his con-
gregation about non-attendance ? It is the editors
of the dailies and weeklies who hold in their hands
the power to suppress quackery, bat they won't use
it because the quacks Eidvertise more than oU other
people combined. Hinc ilia lacrima.
Having said this much, we will add to the list of
firms noticed that of —
J. D. F. Andbbws ahd Co., which, during the past
year, had made rapid progress with the system of
concentric wiring, and has carried out many im-
portant installatione on this system in London and
the country, the most important of which are the
Waterloo grain warehouses, with 200 50-c.p. lamps,
and the Fork-hill petroleum stores, with about 100
16-c.p. lamps, and three of 300 c.p., the dynamo
being about one-third of a mile distant. Another
important installation is that of the Tyne Theatre,
Newcastle-on-Tyne, where there are 200 16-c.p.
lamps, and sis of 200 c.p. As a proof of the great
success of this system, Messrs. Andrews and Co. nave
already concluded three contracts for the Mersey
Cock Board, Liverpool. The system may be ex-
amined at the firm's offices at 41, Parliament-street,
where they have an installation of 100 lights con-
nected to the mains uf the London Electric Supply
Corporation. The majority of the insurance com-
pames have had the system under their consideration,
and have drawn up a set of rules which give latitude
for its introduction.
Blakby, Ehhott, and Co. state that it is not
gener^y known that during the laat twelve mouths
the electric light has been installed in many of the
public buildings, shops, and residences in Preston,
A temporary generating station was fixed twelve
months ago for the purpose of ascertaining what
incUuation the people of Preston had for the electric
light. The National Electric Supply Company,
Limited, which company obtained a provisional order
for lighting the town for a term of forty-two years,
intended that the maximum output for this station
was to be only 1,000 8-c.p. lamps, bat long before
the plant was working the amount of lamps was
greedily taken up on a basis of 12s. per lamp per
annum. The company, to meet additional orders,
were compelled to fix another machine, bringing the
capacity up to considerably over 2,000 lights,
which are now actually working, and orders for
more daily coming in ; but with the before-
mentioned plant it is impossible to execute the
farther orders. They are, therefore, being filed
for future connection from the central gene-
rating station which the company have now com-
menced to erect. The outside wiring has been
overhead, there being four circuits firom the central
station in Corporation-street, two along pole routes
through the most important thoroagnfares in the
town, and two over house tops, telephone fashion.
The whole of the wires and cables for this under-
taking have been manufactured by the Northern
Electric Wire and Cable Manufacturing Company,
Limited, Halifax. The present plant supplied by
Messrs. Blakey, Emmott, and Co., Limited, of
Halifax, consists of three dynamo machines of
18,000 watts ; and a dynamo of 30 kilowatts has
been specially designed for this station. It gives an
output of 140 volts and 430 amperes, at 350 revo-
lutions per minute. The magnetic system is
octagonal in shape, with four internally-pointing
poles. The yoke is of the best cast iron, and the
magnet bars of wrought iron. The four magaet
coils are wound upon four metal formers with brass
cheeks, and can be readily removed or pnt in
Elace. The armature is the cylinder type, and is
uilt up of thin charcoal iron washers, carefully insu-
lated from each other and mounted on a gunmetal
spider. The diameter of the armature core is 21in.
It is insulated with mica before being wound. The
windings are laid on Grramme fashion, and consist of
200 turns of copper tape in 100 sections of two turns
each. Nine driving horns of stiff vulcanised fibre
are provided, which run the whole length of the
armature. 'The windings are securely held in place
by bindings of phosphor bronze wire. The com-
mutator is made up of hard-drawn copper bars
insulated with mica, and is carried upon the shaft
by means of brass rings and fibre insmation. The
armature connections are soldered to spokes pro-
jecting from the commutator segments. These
spokes are afterwards covered by a cusc of thin fibre,
which not only prevents dust from lodging, but also
promotes a strong draught through the armature
&om the pulley end and expels it at the commutator.
Four sets of three brushes each are used, mounted
on an adjuetable rocking frame. The brushes are
connected by four separate connections to the
terminal-boards. The brushes are of gauze.
The shaft is of Bessemer steel, and runs in
long bearings of gunmetal. Sight-feed lubricators
and oil-draming arrangements ore provided. The
magnet yokes divide in a horizontal line, and by
raising the top half of the magnets the armature can
be examined m place. This dynamo runs entirely
without sparking or overheating, and not with*
standing the magnets are only shunt-wound, the
lead given to the bruBhes has only to be altered a
flaw degrees for any output &om no load, ta &iU.V:»&..
8«
■THE ELECTRICAL EtjaiKEEJEt, JAJJUABY 22, 189^.
The machine is the asual 90-kilowatt, of 3,000 lamps
of 8 c,p., run at its ordioary speed of 500 revolutions,
at which output it has an electncaJ efficiency of
97 pec cent., and a commercial efficiency of over
9'i per cent. For this outpnt the armature ia drmn-
wound with special end connections. The National
Electric Snpply Company, Limited, now propose to
pat down a plant on uie low-tension system similar
to that now working so successfully in the St.
James's district in London, which Messrs. Latimer
Clarke, Muirbead, and Co. have pioneered.
The first portion of the town to be served from
this station will be the compnlsory area with
the adjoining streets, in which it is sanguinely
anticipated that a demand for at least 20,000 8-c.p.
lamps will be made. Distributing-boxes will be laid
in such positions as to ensure an even potential over
the mains. A large nnmber of meters have been
successfully introdaced, and it is the intention of
the company to continue the supply. The amount
charged to consumers is 8d. per Board of Trade
unit, with a diacount of IS per cent, if paid within
twenty-one days. The firm find by experience that
this compares very favourably indeed with the cost
of Preston gas, which, by the bye, is 28. 9d. net,
and of very bad quality. Preston, with its numeroas
mills, is favourably placed for a snccessful adoption
of the electric light, and the way in which the present
engineer and manager, Mr. F. F. Bennett, has worked
up the present installation augurs well for the fatore.
Tbe Halifax Mutual Electric Light and Power
Company, Limited, are continuing to do good work
in the way of pablic lighting in tbe town of Hahfas.
It is nearly two years since this company was
formed by taking over tbe central station then being
worked by Messrs. Blakey, Emmott, and Co.,
Limited, and also that of an opposition company,
which has since ceased to exist. The wires, by per-
mission of the Halifax Corporation, are all overhead,
and the company is snpplying current for about
sixty arc lights of ten amperes, and 1,000 incan-
descent lights of 8 c.p. Two systems of charging
are adopted in the town — viz., one at the rate of
12s. per 8-c.p. lamp per annum, and £12 per ten-
ampere lamp per annum, and at 8d. per Board of
Trade unit. The furthest point served from the
central station is about 1,700 yards. The low-tension
system is adopted throughout. It has been found
during the past two months that the company could
notkeep pace with tbe large demandfor current at their
present premises, therefore negotiations have been
entered mto with the Halifax Corporation for leasing
hoxn them a convenient site, and very shortly it is
hoped that the company will have a capacity of at
least 20,000 8-c.p. lamps. Two systems of engines
are used for driving — viz., Armington-Sims's high-
speed, and Tangye's. The dynamos and all other
electrical fittings in connection with the installation
are of the well-known Blakey-Emmott type, and
Mr. Walter Emmott,' of Blakey, Emmott, and Co.,
Limited, Halifax, is the managing director. The
meters adopted up to the present have been the
Aron, whitm appear to be giving general satis-
faction, both to the Emmott Company and to the
consumers. The price per 1,000 cubic feet of gas
in Hali&.x is 2s. net, and judging from the weekly
reports of the expert who tests tbe illuminating
power on behalf of the ratepayers the average
lUuminating power is about seventeen candles.
Taking into account this very low figure with high
efficiency of gas, it speaks venr well for the prospects
of the electric hght for tbe mtore when the present
output and very large demand for current is con-
sidered. The whole of the wires and cables for this
' ■*i»D»tion have been manu&ctored by theMorthem
Electric Wire and Cable Mano&ctnring Company,
Limited, Hali&x.
CORRESPONDENCE.
STEAM ENGINE ECONOMY.
Sir, — We were interested in Prof. Swing's report on the
above. Some years ago we put up a large resistance (40
ohmB)of very open iron wire spirals, for the purpose of test-
ing altematinK-current dyQamoB. From careful experiments
we found that the current passing, as measured by a
Siemen's electro-dynamometer, multiplied by tbe £.M.F.,
measured by a Cardew voltmeter, did not represent the
electrical horse -power being given out Indicator diagrams
taken from engine showed that less horse-power was indi-
cated in tbe cylinders than that in tbe external circuit,
calculated as above. — Youra, etc.,
Thk Elkctric Construction Corporation, Limitbd.
(T. Parker, Chief Engineer and Head Manager.)
January 19, 1892.
Sir, — lu reference to the letter of Messrs. Willaoa and
Robinson in your columns of last week, we would wish to
state that it was not our intention to challenge record
runs, and therefore in the tests made by Prof. Ewing no
arrangements were made conducive to exceptionally high
economies. These are the use of very high boiler pressure,
and a separator or other means for obtaining very dry
steam.
In tbe present tests the pressure at tbe engine never
exceeded 761b., and the steam was not dried.
It would be interesting to know with what steam
pressure and engine Mr. WiUans obtained the results stated
by him at the meeting of the Institute of Civil Engineers
last spring, for we are unable to find any mention of these
two important factors in tbe Proceedings of the Institute. —
Yours, etc., 0. A Parsons and Co.
Heaton Works, Newcastle-on-Tyne.
THE LATE ALEXANDER WATT.
We regret to have to record the death, on the 15th
January, of Mr. Alexander Watt. The late Mr. Watt waa
the tbiid son of Mr. Charles Watt, and was bom in 1823.
He was educated at Camden Town with a view to entering
the medical profession, but in 1839 took up definitely the
study of electro-metallurgy and electro-chemistry. From that
time to the date of bis death Mr. Walt was an indefati-
gable worker and writer. His books have been widely
read, and his contributions on ekctro-metallurgic and
electitKihemical subjects to the technical papers have been
very numerous. His latest contribution, on the " Elec-
trolysis of Gold Sails," was in course of publication in our
columns. The late Mr. Watt cannot be said to have
rankest aa a pure scientist ; indeed, the purely scientific was
a phase of work which he scouted. His aim was always to
get at something which could be put at once to a practical
use, and for which he could obtain a practical recognition.
A mere investigation with no practical end in view was to
him a sheer waste of time and energy, hence his books and
papers rather appeal to the working than to a highly-
trained Bcientific circle. In all his work be was extremwy
cautious and painstaking, nor should one trait in his
character be left unrecognised — his great and intense deure
to see justice done to the labours of his brother.
Telegraph to OUna.— The Times correspondent in
Burmah announces that the telegraph line is now almost
completed between Bhamo and Nampoung Creek. The wires
will then extend to within less than 100 miles of the
terminus of the Chinese telegraph line in Momein. The
Chinese authorities will be asked to continue their line and
connect it with ours. An alternative telegraph Une between
England and China woukl be thus establuhed.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER. JANUARY 22, 1892.
87
THE DETEHMIHATION OP THE EFFICIENCT OF
DYNAMOS.
BT OISBSRT EA.PP.
The power given out b; a continuoiu-cuirent dynamo,
ID tha shape of current and pressure, caa be measured with
a very fair dt^ee of accuracy. The ordinary commercial
ampere and Toltmeteni now obtainable from good makers
may be relied on to be accurate within a few per cent., and
JD some cases within a fraction of 1 per cent. In any case
there is no difBculty in recalibrating the instruments
■nfSciently accurately to make sure that the error shall not
exceed ^ per cenL, so that the maximum possible error in
computing the power need not exceed 1 per cant., and the
probable error will be | per cent. Within these limits,
then, we are able to tell what the output of any
given machine is, and if we could determine with
equal certainty the power mechanically supplied to
the machine, the determination of the efficiency — that
ie, the ratio of electrical power given out to mechanical
power supplied — could be mads with a high degree of
accuracy. But, unfortunately, the determination of power
mechanically is not an easy matter, and is especially difS-
cult when tne power must not be absorbed by, but must be
transmitted through the meaeuring instrument. Hence
electrical engineers have very early in the development of
their industry begun to cast about for some method
whereby the efficiency of dynamos might be determined
without making a mechanical measurement of power at
»1L
Probably the first to devise such a me thod was Major
Cardew somesiz years ago, and his method was prescribed for
dynamos supplied under hie specifications to the War Office.
To make an efficiency test three machines were required,
preferably difi'ering in output by the amount of power lost
m each. The largest machine was arranged to supply
current to the medium-sized machine, and that again was
arranged to supply mechanical power by belting or direct
coupling to the sraallest machine. In order to work each
machine at normal load their sizes must obviously differ.
Thus, if A, B, and C be the three machines, and if B is
rated as a 50-kilowatt dynamo, then it will work as a
motor fully loaded if 50 kilowatts is supplied to it electri-
cally. Its mechanical output, or the power it supplies
to C, must be less than 50 kilowatts, because some
power is lost in the machine itself. Say the net power
available in the spindle of B is 42 kilowatts. We supply,
then, 42 kilowatts to the spindle of C, and obtain from
it '■saiD less power electrically, say 36 kilowatts. The
mubines will, therefore, be all working under full
nwinal load if they are designed for an output of 50, 42
and 36 kilowatts respectively. Should B and G happen
to ba machines of equal size the test can still be applied,
only B will be slightly overloaded and C will be slightly
anaerloaded. This does not materially influence the
Menraoy of the test, since the effidencj' of a machine is ,
nearly constant for loads anywhere near the normal. The
power supplied to A need not be measured ; all we measure
is the electrical power supplied to B and tha electrical
power obtained from C. The ratio between the two is the
combined efficiency of B and C, and the square root of this
ratio is the efficiency of each machine taken singly.
Another method for testing efficiency was devised soma
years ago by Dr. Hopkinson and shown to several
engineers at the works of Messrs, Mather and Piatt, Man-
chester. The improvement consisted in supplying not the
whole of the power required by B (as in Cardew's test),
but only the power lost in B and C, the current given by C
being used to work B as a motor. In Hopkinson'a metood
the two machines are mechanically connected, preferably
by joining their spindles by a coupling. Over this coupling
is placed a pulley, which takes the belt through which
the waste power is supplied. In the arrangement adopted
at Manchester the driving belt was passed through a
Hefener von Alteneck transmission dynamometer, by which ,
the power required to keep the whole system going was
measured mechanically. The accuracy of this method it
certainly greater than that of the direct method, where the
whole of the power is measured mechanically, because an
error in the reading of the dynamometer only affects the deter-
mination of the waste power, but some slight error may still
occur. Say, for instance, that the efficiency of the two
machines combined is 80 per cent Then 20 per cent of
the power of one machine has to be supplied by the belt,
and must be measured on the dynamometer. An error of
10 per cent, in this kind of power measurement may easily
occur, and in this case the power supplied would be esti-
mated at either 18 or 22 per cent., accordingly as the erra
is positive or nwative, causing an error of about 1 per cent,
in the final result. Apart from the inconvenience m having
to rig up a dynamometer, there is the further objection
that we must make tha test by means of two totally different
sets of measuring instruments which are not directly com-
parable with each other, and that it is therefore not possible
to compensate the errors in the calibration of one set of
instruments by those in the other sek.
In this respect Cardow's test has an advantage. Not
only do we use the same kind of instruments when testing
Che power supplied and the power obtained, but we can by
a suitable arrangement of switches use absolutely the same
instruments for both circuits, and then any calibratioa
errors in one set of readings can be partially or wholly
compensated by the errors in the other sat of readings.
The objection to Cardew's method is that it requires the
use of an engine and dynamo more powerful than any of
the machines to be tested, and such plant is not always at
hand or easily procurable. It is, however, possible to so alter
the original arrangement that a comparatively small engine
and dynamo will suffice for the testing of large dynamos.
Using again the notation previously employed, if, instead of
feeding glow lamps or resistance coils from the machine, C,
88
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 22, 1892
we let its current pass through 6, and thus help working
it as motor, then the machine, A, need only supply the
difference between the power absorbed by 6, and that
delivered by C. We have, in fact, the electrical analogue
to Hopkinson's mechanical method; and just as in uiis
methoa a small belt suffices to keep a couple of bie;
machines in motion at full load, so will here a small
dynamo, A, suffice to keep a couple of large machines,
B and C, working at full load. It is obvious that the
connections between the three machines may be arranged
in one of two ways. We may either pot all the machines
in series, in which case A must be a machine of low voltage
and large current — i.e., the same current as that for which
the two big machines, 6 and C, are built ; or we can
place the three machines into parallel connections, in
which case the small machine, A, must be of the same
voltage as the two large machines, but need only give a
smAll current Theoretically, either method is equally
good, but, as will be shown later on, there are some
practical reasons which generally make in favour of the
second or parallel arrangement of machines. Before
entering upon a detailed explanation of either method it
will be useful to anticipate and answer a question which
naturally presents itself in connection with this subject The
question is the following : Why should we go to the trouble
of running three machmes if we want to know only the
efficiency of one ; and would it not be equally good to deter-
mine the efficiency of this one machine by running it idle as
a motor and measuring the power required to drive itself ?
This would, in fact, correspond to the usual practice with
steam engines of taking so-called " light running " or
" friction " diagrams. The indicated power required by the
engine to drive itself is thus determined, and the brake
power may be computed in a rough and ready way by
subtracting from the full indicated power that which was
indicated when running light. The ratio of brake horse-
power to indicated horse-power is then the efficiency of
the engine. Why should we not do something similar
with dynamos ? Say we have a machine designed to give
an output of 100 kilowatts. Leaving aside for a moment
the power required for field excitations, which can be
easily measured when the machine is in regular work, we
wish to determine the efficiency of the armature as an
implement for converting mechanical into electrical power.
We run the machine light as a motor, and adjust the field
strength so as to get the normal speed. The power required
to drive the armature can now be exactly computed from
the readings of an ampere-meter and a voltmeter. Say we
find eight kilowatts is required. Following the analogue of
the steam engine, we would conclude that, apart from the
loss through armature resistance, 1004-8 = 108 kilowatts
must be mechanically supplied to the shaft of this machine
if 100 kilowatts are to be taken off at the brushes. If we
further find that the field requires three kilowatts for
excitation, and that two kilowatts are lost in armature
resistance (both of which losses can be accurately measured),
we would compute the total efficiency of this machine at
100/(108 4- 3 4- 2) = 88^ per cent
Whether this computation is correct or not depends
entirely on the question whether we are justified in
assuming that the waste of power (other than that caused
by armature resistance) is the same at all loads ; in other
words, whether our eight kilowatts required for light
running means a constant addition for any load. Theory
and experiment both show that this is not so, but that the
power lost increases with the load. The reasons for this
increase are not far to seek. Consider what are the causes
of this loss. Firstly, we have mechanical friction and air
resistance ; secondly, magnetic friction, or hysteresis ; and,
thirdly, eddy currents. The air resistance is unimportant
and does not depend on the load ; the mechanical friction,
although it may be expected to increase with the load, is in
itsdf so small that even if it were to increase by 20 or 30
per cent at full load it would not materially affect the
efficiency. As regards hysteresis the case is different.
Generally speaking, the loss of power caused by it is of
importance, and it is conceivable tnat this loss may increase
with the load, not only by reason of an increase in the
strength of the field, but also owine to distortion of the
field. Both of these causes affect uso the eddy currents,
so that we may certainly expect the loss caused by them
to increase with the load. Eddy currents occur in the
core and in the armature bars only when the intensity of
the field changes — ^that is, under or near the edges of the
pole-pieces. When the machine is running Tight the
strength of the field at the leaving edge of the pole-piece is
practically the same as that at the entering edge, and, in
fact, the same over the whole extent of pouir surface, but
when a considerable current flows through the armature
bars the field becomes distorted by cross-induction. It
becomes weakened at the entering edge and strengthened
at the leaving edge, so that every bar whilst travelling from
one edge to the other is passing through a gra^lually
increasing field. In addition to the eddy currents pro-
duced at entry and exit only, as is the case when the
machine is working light, there are now also eddy
currents produced at the intermediate points. The eddy
currents at the entering edge have decreased because
there the field has been weakened, but those at the
leaving edge have increased because there the field has
been strengthened ; and since the loss of power through
eddy currents may be roughly said to be proportional to
the square of the field strength, the gain in one place will
not suffice to mi^e up for the increased loss in the other,
so that, on the whole, we may expect to find the loss by
eddy currents increase with the cross-induction — ^that is,
with the load on the machine. What has here been
explained applies equally to drum and cylinder armatures,
but in the latter there is another source of loss, absent from
the former — namely, the influence of the internal winding.
The current passing throng the internal wires of a Oramme
armature produces a field the lines of which are more or less ,
parallel to the diameter of commutation. This field is
stationary in space, and its lines are therefore continuously
being cut by the spindle, hub, arms, and other metal parts
within the armature core. The larger the current passing
through the armature, the stronger is this field, and the
stronger are the eddy currents produced in these metal
parts. The power thus wasted must therefore increase with
the load. These theoretical considerations are completely
verified by experiment, but to make such experiments it is,
of course, necessary to determine the losses through eddy
currents and mechanical and magnetic friction separately.
Various methods exist for making this determination.
According to one of them the fiehl of the machine is
separately excited, and the armature is supplied with
current at various £.M.F.'s. It will therefore run at various
speeds. If we plot speeds on the horizontal and currents on
the vertical, we find that all the points lie on a straight
line, and prolonging this line backwards we obtain by
its intersections with the axis of ordinates that current
which will just suffice to keep the armature moving imper
ceptibly. Call this Co , the current corresponding to speed,
0, Let C and £ be current and E.M.F. at the normal
speed, n, then the total power wasted in running the arma-
ture light is Ws-CE, and this consists of two parts —
namely, the power wasted in friction and hysteresis, which
isWA^W ^,
and that wasted in eddy currents,
which is W< «W
C-Cc
C
We neglect, of course, the power lost in armature resist-
ance, ^ich, with a machine running light, is insignificant.
Now, imagine two machines of the same type mechani-
caUy coupled and electrically so connected that one acts as
motor and the other as generator. We supply current to
keep the system in motion, and adjust the KM.F. so as to
get different speeds. By making the proper allowance for
armature resistance, we can, from the observed values of
speed, armature current, supply current, and KM.F.,
separately calculate the power lost in eddy currents and
hysteresis. It is not necessary to enter into the theory of
such tests here ; suffice it to say that the value for W/ thus
found is always greater than the W^ determined when
running light, and that with Wj^ this is generally also the
case.
(To be continued.)
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 22, 1892.
STDEMHAN ELECTRIC LIGHT STATION.
Contmaiiig the account of this installation, deiigQed
And eooatructed for the Installation Company by Mesara.
J. E. H. Gordon and Co., we give on this and two following
pages iUtutrations of the details of the engine and dynamo
foWMUtiona, which sufficiently explain themselves without
deecription on our part.
ELECTRIC UGHT SUPPLY.
At the thiid ordinary meeting uf the Dundee Institute of
Ardiiteotnre, Science, and Art, on 14th inst., Hr. C. Ritchie,
of the Electric Construction Oorporation, delivered a lecture
on "Electric Light Supply." Mr. William Mackison, C.E.,
presided.
Hr. BircHiB b^an by Temarking that but a comparatively
few number of persoiiB knew anything about the practicd
queationE of generating eleotric current on a commercial scale
until about IS years ago, and statinK that gas oompaniee had
been spurred on to provide better light since becoming aware
of the advantages of electrici^. Hr. Ritchie afterwards
said that the question of the distribution of electric
energy had always hem a difficult one, but the alternating-
current systeBi had survived to the present day. The syatenu
employed for the distribution of electric current over large areas
might be divided into two classes— low-tension and high-tension.
The low-tension systems of distribution were in practice always
applied by continuous ourront. The umplest form was tlut
wherein two copper conductors were carried through the streets
of the area of supply, one beiug the lead, or positive, and the
other the return, or negative. Ine advantages of this system were
itssimplicityandtheadiaptabtlityofthecurrenttotheuseof motors
and accumulators, but its great diBadvantage was the enormous
cost of the copper required to cover any ordinary area of public
supply. To overcome this objection there waa in use the three-
wire system, the third wire being for the purpoae of balancing.
While a great saving was effected under this system, it was
not sufficient to meet the necessities of an area of supply
when the lamps were widely distributed. The high-tension
system might be either alternating or continuous, but as the
Eressure in the houses could not practically be more than
00 volts on aooount of the lamps, a transformer of some sort
must intervene between the high pressure of the generating station
and the low pressure of the houses. The most generally adopted
3 stem for the utilisation of high pressure was by means of
ternating current, the pressure of the generating ststion being
limited by the consideration of the insulation of the wires
of the machines and transformers and of the conductors. This
system was very simple in its elements, but it had several serious
disadvantages, and there were heavy losses under it. Two
methods of utilising the high pressure at the generating station
were in use, the one by the employment of accumulators, and
the other of motor-generators either alone or with accumulators.
The advantages obtained from the accumulators were that
the generating station need only be runnuig for a comparatively
short time each day, and might be shut down for lengthy
periods during the summer months, when little currentwas being
consumed. In order, however, to meet with the difficulty of
the large eipeuditure necessary for the accumulators, the motor-
generator system had been developed. Mr. Ritchie afterwards
explained the working of this system in detail, remarking that
as the demand increased the transformers in the sub-stations
were put on the one after the other, and as the demand decreased
an inverse operation waa required to put the transformers
out cf circuit. By a comparatively small outlay it was a
simple matter to adapt this system to any eiisting low-
tension circuit or network of maius without dispensing with the
present machinery and mains. It was necessary, he proceeded,
to treat high-pressure mains in a different manner from luw-
firessure mains, just in the same way as with meter pipes. The
ecturer afterwards explained the Callender- Webber system of
bitumen, remarking that it consisted of a number of
conduits formed by bituminous concrete, which were usually
about 6ft. long, and said that iu this system, as in the
preceding, service-hoses were put in at certain intervals
lor drawing in the necessary cables. Another distinct
system of high-tension mains was that in which the lead
and return were concentric one with tte other, two special forma
of these being the Ferranti and the Siemens, under which a
special formuf service-box was used for joining up. The lecturer
concluded by referring to the sites foi '
designing and building of machinery.
Slti^o".
LONDON CHAMBER OF COHHERCE.
OVERHEAD WIRES— FRENCH CUSTOMS TARIFF-
PALACE EXHIBITION.
Thefolluwing communications emanating from the London
Chamber of Commerce are interesting to electrical engineers.
"County Council By- laws on Ovkbhbad Wires,
" Dear Sir, — I beg to send you herewith copy of a letter
which waa recently sent to the County Council by thia
Chamber on the aiibject of the bv-lawB issued by that body
in regard to overhead wires ana also a copy of the reply.
This letter was written on the representations of one or
two of the members of the aection that it was impossible
to carry on their buainesa if the reguhitions in question
were atricUy enforced. I would therefore be ^bd if yqul
90
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 22, 1892.
would carefully peniM the corrMpondence and forward me
any represenUtiona yon may bare to make on the eubject,
and especially as to whether you consider it necessary to
hold a meeting to consider the matter.— Yours faithfully,
" Kknric B. Murray, Secretary.
"January 15th. 1892.''
[copy.]
" London Chamber of Commerce, January 7tfa, 1892.
" H. de la Uooke, Esq., clerk to the London County Council,
" Spring-gardens, S.W.
"By-laws — Overhkad Wibks.
"Sir, — The attention of this Chamber has been recently
directed by several of its members to certain by-laws made
by the London County Council in pursuance of the London
Overhead Wires Act of 1891, ana we are informed that
your Council, before instituting these by-laws, made
enquiries at several of the leading electrical firms, and that
no objection was offered to working under these regula-
tions. We are informed, however, that many, if not all of
the firms consulted, are not directly affected by these by-
laws, and that another and equally important section of the
electrical industry were not consulted, and they, as members
of the Electrical Trade Section of this Chamber, propose that
a meeting should be held for the purpose of making repre-
sentations on the subject. My Council^ however, recog-
nising the courtesy which we have experienced from you
in other matters, as well as in endeavouring to ascertain
TBt ftLECThlOAL fiNtJlNfiER, JAKUARY 22, 1892.
91
th« viewB of many of the le&ding BrmB whom it may have
been supposed were principally concerned, direct mo, in tha
meantime, to aak you to be good enough to lat ua know
how the matter now stands.
" I am directed at the same tjme to suggest that it might
be well if you could furward for our information a short
statement setting forth the reasons which have induced
your Council to enforce these by-laws. — I am. Sir, yours
faithfully, KsNRic B. Murray, Secretaiy."
French Customs Tariff.
" To the members of the Electiical Trade SecUon :
"The following extracts from the new French Custonu
tariff as definitely passed, to come into operation on the
let February, 1892, show the duties applicable on the
articles mentioned, under the general and minimum
tariff.. It is understood that the latter tariff will apply to
British goods :
Engine and Dynamo FouodslioDB— Sydenham Central Station. Elevation,
"London County Council, 8th January, 1892,
"Sir, — I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter
of the 7th inst. on the subject of the by-laws made by the
Council for the regulation of overhead wires,
" The information which you say has been given to the
Chamber of Commerce is not quite accurate. The Council
did not before making the by-kws make enquiries of the
leading electrical firms and ascertain that there was no
objection to working under the proposed regulations. The
by-laws were made by the Council after careful considera-
tion and consultation with its professional advisers as to
what regulations appeared to be necessary for securing the
public from accidents which might arise from overhead
wires.
" Having made the by-laws, the Council submitted them to
the Board of Trade as reiiuired by the statute, and at the re-
quest of the Board they were advertised at length in the Times
newspaper, and a copy of them was sent to every company
or person in London who appeared likely to be affected by
tho by-laws. If there are any persons directly concerned
who have not received them it has been through want of
knowledge, but inasmuch as they were, as I have stated,
advertised at length in the Tijnes, it was open to everyone
to see them.
" The preeent position of the matter is this : That the
Council, before making a formal application to the Board
of Trade for confirmation of tho by-laws, is prepared, as
also is the Board of Trade, to consider any objections or
observations which may be offered with regard to them by
any persons interested. If, therefore, the members of your
Chamber have any representations to make, they should be
sent to the Council and the Board of Trade some time
before the end of the month,
" With reference to your suggestion that a short state-
ment should be sent to you of the reasons which have led
the Council to make these by-laws, the best thing I can do
i* to refer yon to the report of the Select Committee of the
House of Commons on the subject in 1885, where legisla-
tion was recommended. It is upon this report that the
action of the Council has been based. — I am, Sir, your
obedient servant,
" H. OE LA HOOKE, clerk of the Council.
" The Secretaiy of the London Chamber of Commerce,"
,>75
o. Articlea.
,. LampM electriques ii incandeecencB
muDiea do leur moDbDre 400
,. Lampea electriquei fiincandBBcenoe
noD muniei de leur montnre 800
,. Macbmea dfname-electriqae :
de 1,000 kUoe, Ob plas 30
dB50kiloa.\ 1,000 kilos 4»
de 10 kiloB et pu plus de 50 kilos 100
,. Induita de machine dynamo-elM-
trique et pieces deUch^ telles
que : bobinas pleinee ou vldei en
mital entourtes de cuirra itole ;
pieces travaillee en cuivre, pesant
moine de 1 kilo, numerotes et
marquees, ajustee enaemble ou de-
monUes, pour appareils elec-
triqaeB, Uunpes a arc dites r^u-
lateuTB 100
. Accumulatours ulectriquea 17
General Minimum
tariff per tariff per
lOOkibs. lOOkifoe.
13
" Note.— The complete official text of the tariff law may be seen
in the reading-room oF the London Chamber of Commeroe.
"January 19th, ISO-2."
" Crystal Palace Exhibition and Railway Rates.
"Dear Sir, — This Chamber recently approached theLondon
Brighton, and South Coast and the London, Chatham, and
Dover Railway Companies with a view of securing a reduced
rate on exhibits intended for the Electrical Exhibition at
the Crystal PaUce. The companies did not see their way,
however, to grant reduced rates ; but I am now in receipt
of two letters, copies of which I enclose, from which you
will see that the companies have agreed to convey the unsold
exhibits, on the return journey, free of charge to any station
on either of these lines of railway, provided that the
exhibits remain the pr^terty of the exhibitors. —Yonn
faithfully, KsNRic B. MuREAT, Secretary.
"January 13th, 1892."
[copy.]
" London, Brighton, and South Coast Railway,
" London Bridge, S.E.,
"Ilth January, 1892.
'•Electrical Exhibition at Crystal Palace, 1SB2.
" Dear Sir, — Adverting to my letter to you of tlie 28th
ulto., I have the pleasure to inform you that, although we do
9^
tHE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 22. 1892.
not see our way to meet your wishes with regard to making
a reduction in the rail-charge for .the conveyance of the
exhibits to the Crystal Palace, we shall nevertheless be
willing to assist the exhibitors in this respect by conveying
the unsold exhibits on the return journey from the Crystal
Palace back to the station whence they were sent free of
charge at owners' risk.
*' This concession relates, of course, to traffic from and to
our own stations only, and does not in any way affect or
disturb the terms and arrangements concerning traffic to
places on other companies' lines.
" I should be glad if you would be good enough to notify
your Council accordingly. — I am, dear Sir, yours faithfully,
" N. Sarlb, Secretary and General Manager."
" London, Chatham, and Dover Railway Company,
" Manager's Office, Victoria Station,
" 9th January, 1892.
" Dear Sir, — In reply to your letter of the 15th ulto., I
have the pleasure to inform you that, after due considera-
tion, it has been arranged by this company and by the
L. B. and S. C. Company for exhibits which were
originally sent from stations on our respective systems
to be conveyed on the return journey free of charge
at owners' risk, providing they remain the property
of the exhibitors. — I am, dear Sir, yours truly,
" John S. Bates."
MODERN APPLICATIONS OF ELECTRICITY TO
METALLURGY.*
BY O. C. V. HOOIEH, SEC. I.N. A.
During the last few years the application of electricity to
lighting and to motive power has received the greatest
attention from the engineering profession, bat comparatively
little notice has been taken of the equally important application
of this force to metallurgy and the n^Duiacture of metal goods.
At the present moment, however, the manufacture of copper
goods by electrical methods is beginning to excite considerable
attention in the engineering world because of the extraordinary
facility with which such articles as sheets, tubes, rollers, wire
and tape for electric lighting and telegraphic purposes, etc., can
be produced in one operation and of qualities hitherto unattain-
able. The author hopes, therefore, that a paper on this subject
will prove of interest to the society, and as it will probably be
considered more satisfactory, instead of giving a mere descrip-
tion of the methods and apparatus actually used in producing
the results which have been attained, he proposes to commence
by referring briefly to the electro-chemical principles of the
subject, then to go on to show how these principles have been
applied to that large and important industry — the electric
refining of copper — and finally give an account of the methods
by which, during the process of the refining of the copper,
finished goods, such as those above enumerated, can be auto-
matically produced of absolutely pure metal.
Electro- Chemical Principlea. — It was discovered in the first
year of the present century that water could be decomposed
mto its chemical con3tituent8 by passing through it an electrical
current of sufficient tension. The process is known as
electrolysis ; the ends of the conductors are called electrodes,
that by which the current enters the waters is called the anode,
and the end of the other conductor by which the current passes
out again is called the cathode. At the surface of the anode,
oxygen gas is separated from the water, while at the surface of
the cathode hydrogen is formed, each gas being separated
exactly in the proportions required to form water. The atoms
which are decomposed, or electrolysed, are called in electro-
technical language, ions ; those which appear at the anode and
cathode being named respectively, anions and kathions.
There are three principal laws which express the quantity of
action which takes place during the electrolytic process. These
laws are of the utmost practical iinportance to enable the cost of
the operation to be ascertained. They are as follows :
I. — The amount of chemical action is equal at all points of a
circuit. For instance, if the current were passed through a
series of vessels, connected by a series of conductors, the ends
of each of which were immersed in the water of two adjacent
vessels, the first and last conductors being connected respec-
tively with the positive and negative poles of the source of
electricity, so that the whole formed one continuous circuit,
then the amount of water decomposed in each vessel in the
circuit would be equal.
n. — The amount of the chemical action which takes place in
a given time is exactly proportional to the quantity of the
* Paper read before the Junior Engineerhig Society, Jan. 15.
current which passes through the vessel. For instance, a
current of six amperes would decompose three times the
quantity of water in each vessel which a current of two amperes
would separate in the same time.
ni. — The amount of hydrogen liberated by the passage of a
current of one atxipere through water during one second is
'000015 gramme. This quanti^ is called the electro-chemical
equivalent of hydrogen. The amount of any other chemical
element liberated at an electrode by the passage of a current of
electricity of one ampere during one second through any other
solution, containing the chemical element in a form in which it
can be electrolysed, is exactly equal to the electro-chemical
equivalent of hydrogen multiplied by the chemical equivalent
of the element in question. Thus the chemical equivalent of
oxygen is 8, and the weight of oxygen liberated by the above-
mentioned current in a vessel of water would be '0000105 x 8^
'0000840, which number is therefore its electro-chemical
equivalent. Below is given a table of the atomic weights and
electro-chemical equivalents of the principal elements which
have to be considered in electrolytic work.
me of element.
Hydrogen
Potassium
Atomic
weight.
10
391
23-0
196*6
108-0
63-0
2000
118 0
560
59 0
65-0
207-0
160
35.50
14 00
Table I.
Chemical
equivalent.
• 1-0 .. ..
Electro-chemical
equivalent in
grammes per
ampere-second.
.... -0000105
39-1
.... -0004105
Sodium
23-0
•0002415
Gold
65-5
... -0006875
Silver
Copper
Mercury
Tin
108-0
31-5
100-0
29-6
•0011340
•0003307
. .. -0010500
.... -0003097
Iron
14-0
... -0001470
Nickel
29'5
-0003097
Zinc
Lead
32-5
103-5
•0003412
.... -0010867
Oxygen
Chlorine
8-0
.... -0000840
35-5
.... -0003727
Nitrogen
4-3
... -0000490
Nothing has yet been said regarduig the energy required to
effect the decomposition. Taking, again, the case of water. . As
soon as the smallest quantities of oxygen and hydrogen appear
at the anode nnd cathode respectively, the apparatus is con-
verted into a secondary battery, the elements of which — viz., the
two above-named gases — tend to combine, and in so doing
dovelope an E.M.F. of 1-45 volts. The current employed to
effect the decomposition must therefore possess at least an equal
E.M.F., and iii addition whatever E.M.F. is necessary in order
to overcome the electrical resistance of the generator of elec-
tricity, the conductors, and the liquid between the aiKxie and
cathode.
If Q be the quantity of electricity passing through the circuit,
E the back E.M.F., E* the E.M.F. necessary to convey the
current through the above-named resistances, then the work
done by the current = Q (E-hE*).
The E.M.F. of any particular chemical reaction is equal to
the product of the electro-chemical equivalent of the separated
ion into its heat of combination when entering into the combina-
tion in question expressed in dynamical units. For explanation
of this reference is made to the work on '* Electricity and
Magnetism," written by our distinguished past-president. Prof.
Silvanus Thompson, F.R.S.
The above law is expressed as a formula as follows : Let E be
the E.M.F. in volts ; Z, the electro-chemical equivalent of the
separated ion ; H, the number of units of heat evolved by a
gramme of the substance when entering into the combination ;
and J, Joule's equivalent (42 x 10^), then E = Z H J.
Taking as an illustration the case of copper dissolving into
sulphuric acid, from the above table Z = 003307, H = 881,
J = 42 X 10», then E = -003307 x 881 x 42 x 10« = l-223x 10«
** absolute " units of E.M.F. = 1*223 volts.
To consider next the case of the electrolysis of sulphate of
copper solution with an insoluble anode such as platinum. The
chemical expression of this combination of copper, sulphur, and
oxygen is CUSO4, which differs from sulphuric acid (±12^04) in
that the two atoms of hydrogen are replaced by one atom of
copper.
When the current of sufficient E.M.F. is passed through a
solution of this salt in water the CUSO4 is split up into Cu, or
metallic copper, which is deposited on the cathode, and SO4,
which decomposes the water of the solution, forming sulphuric
acid and free oxygen.
Thus : CUSO4 = Cu -»• SO^
SO4 + up = H2SO4 + O.
The result is in the end the same if it is supposed that the
current in the first instance decomposes the water of the solu-
tion. In this case, as before, oxygen appearo at the anode and
hydrogen at the cathode. The free hydrogen, however, at once
decomposes tlie sulphate of copper, replacmg the copper, which
latter is deposited in the metaluc form on the cathode. If the
current is passed for a sufficiently long time through the solu-
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY S2, 1892.
93
taon, thm whole of the copper will be extracted from the salt
and will be deposited, and the solution itself will be converted
into dilute sulphuric acid. The minimum work done in effect-
ing the decomposition expressed in watts is equal to the current
expressed in amperes multiplied by the back E.M.F. in volts of
copper entering into combination wich sulphuric acid. This
E.M.F. has been shown above to be 1*223 volts, and if Q
amperes be the quantity of electricity passing per minute, then
Q X 1*223 watts per minute is the minimum energy required to
effect the decomposition, to which has to bo added the energy
required to overcome the resistances of the generator of elec-
tricity, the conductors, and the electrolyte.
The author lays stress upon these elementary facts in order
to pave the way, in a systematic manner, to ascertaining
the commercial cost of refining rough copper.
Coming next to the case of electrolysing the same sulphate of
copper solution, but employing an anode of pure copper instead
of the insoluble anode of platinum taken in the last instance.
In this case we may suppose, as before, that copper is deposited
on the cathodo and oxyeen liberated at the anode, while part
of the solution is turned into sulphuric acid. The nascent
oxygen, however, combines with the copper of the anode,
forming oxide of copper, which latter immediately dissolves
into the sulphuric acid present, re-forming sulphate of copper
and liberating an equivsdent amount of water. Thus, every-
thing is restored to its first condition, and the process
goes on continuously ; copper being deposited from the
■olation on to the cathode, while it is dissolved in precisely
equal qoantities from the anode, and the solution, instead of
being converted into dilute sulphuric acid, as in the first
case, is constantly replenished with copper, and is maintained as
a solution of the sulphate of that metal, and serves, in fact, as
the medium for transmitting the metal of the anode to the
cathode. Thus we see that whatever chemical changes occur
at one part of the combination precisely opposite changes occur
at another part, and consequently no work whatever is done in
the purely chemical part of the operation ; and if the solution,
the conductors, and the electric generator had no resistance —
that is, were of perfect conductivi^ — ^then an electric current of
infinitely small E.M.F. would effect the deposition. The same
tBciU may be put in another way by stating that there is no
back E.M.F. m the bath, because the nascent oxygen liberated
at the anode, instead of tending to combine with the deposited
copper on the opposite cathode — thus forming an electric
ooople--combines at once with the copper of the anode with
which it is in contact, while the energy of the combination is
balanced bjjr the simultaneous absorption of energy due to the
decomposition of the metal at the cathode.
This elementary fact, which is perfectly well known to those
who have conducted the simplest experiment in copper plating,
is the sole secret of the extraordinary cheapness of the process
of the electro-refining of copper. In practice, of course, the
generator, the conductors, the electrodes, and the solution offer
a definite, even if veiy small, resistance to the passage of the
current, and the current must have a corresponding E.M.F.
in order to overcome these resistances, but it must be definitely
understood that in electroplating copper from a pure copper
anode the overcoming of this imperfect conductivity is the sole
work done by the current, the energy employed in doing chemical
work being nil.
It may here be mentioned that in order to promote free
action, and in order to improve the conductivity of the elec-
trolyte, a certain amount of free sulphuric acid is always put into
the bath along with the water and the copper salt, and conse-
quently, if there is a considerable inequality between the areas
of anode and cathode, more or less copper may be dissolved into
the solution than is deposited on the anode, according to which
area predominates, and consequently the liquid may vary in
richness of salt during the time the current is passing.
The case of depositing the metal from an impure copper
anode introduces at once the metallurgical industry of refining
raw copper. The rough copper of commerce is usually alloyed
or mixed with various other metals, and there is no immediate
apparent reason why they should not be dissolved by the action
of the current into the free sulphuric acid present in the solu-
tion in the bath and deposited together with the copper on the
cathode. It will be presently seen, however, that with ordinary
precautions such action does not take place, but that the copper
18 deposited in a pure state.
When an anode is composed of a mixture or an alloy of
several metals, and the electric current passed through, the
various component metals are not oxidised and dissolved simul-
taneously. They are, on the contrary, attacked in a certain
order depending upon the energy which they develop when com-
bining with oxygen and dissolving into the acid of the solution.
The metal which is attacked first ii that which by its oxidation
developes the greatest energy, or which, if used as one of the
elements of a primary battery, would develop the highest
E.M.F. ; and so on in regular order. Vice versa. When several
metala are simultaneously in solution in the bath the order of
dapoaition is the reverse of the order of dissolution — that is to
•ay, Uiat metal will be first deposited the separation of which
from the solution requires the least amount of energy. This
law, the author believes, was first stated by Dr. Kiliani, of
Munich, and was published in the German '* Bergen Hiitteu
Miinnische Zeitung " in the year 1885.
The subject-matter of this law is a very large one, and
whether its application to all the metals found in combination
with rough copper has been fully studied is a matter uf very much
doubt. Concerning a few of the metals, such as silver, lead,
iron, copper, and zinc, however, when dissolved into and
deposited from a few electrolytes, pretty extensive researches
have been made. The following are some of the principal
metals found in combination with copper : Man^nese, zinc,
iron, tin, cadmium, cobalt, nickel, lead, arsenic, bismuth,
antimony, copper, silver, gold. They are given in the order of
the heats of combination developed by them when undergoing
oxidation. The list therefore fdso gives the order in which
they would be dissolved according to Dr. Kiliani's law ; while
if in solution they would be deposited in the inverse order.
It will be noted that copper comes almost at the bottom of
the list, having only the precious metals silver and gold below
it. It is largely to this circumstance that is due the facility
with which copper can be refined, for under the ordinary
circumstance of deposition neither the gold nor the silver
oxidise and dissolve into the electrolyte at all, but fall to the
bottom of the bath in the shape of metallic powder when the
surrounding metals in which they are embedded dissolve away ;
hence the copper is left as the metal most easily separated from
the solution, and in accordance with the law previoudy stated it is
deposited on the cathode before any of the other metals, all of
which are oxidised and some dissolved into the solution before
it. It must, however, be acknowledged that the above state-
ments are only true and the law applicable so long as certain
conditions relating to the strength and E.M.F. of the current,
the composition of the electrocute, and the proportion of the
foreign metals in the anode are observed.
As an instance of some of the variations that occur, it may be
stated that if the KM.F. of the current exceed a certain
degree several of the metals may be dissolved and deposited
simultaneously. This peculiarity is obviously due to the fact
that, when they dissolve into the solution, each metal can be
electrolysed by a current having an E.M.F. somewhat higher
than the natural E.M.F. due to the combination of the
metal with the acid of the bath. (See the case of the
electrolysis of sulphate of copper between insoluble anodes.)
If, then, the electrolyte contained several metals in solution
and the E.M.F. of the current were gradually increased, each
of them would, in turn, be separated from the solution and
deposited. If, on the other hand, the E.M.F. at the outset
were higher than the highest natural E.M.F. which could be
developed by any metal present entering into the combination
in question, then all of them would simultaneously be separated
and deposited. Tf the current density per unit of area of
cathode exceed a certain amount (approximately five amperes
per square foot of surface) the copper will not be deposited in
the metallic form at all, but will fiul to the bottom of the bath
in the shape of poiider. The composition of the electrolyte —
i.e., the proportions of free acid, copper sulphate, and water —
exercises an important influence on the character of the deposit,
as also does the temperature. The more neutral and the poorer
in dissolved copper the electrolyte, the more easily will the metals
low down in the above list be dissolved, and the more easily
also will those high up in it be deposited. The precise reasons
for some of the above peculiarities have never been exactly
ascertained, and hence it comes that the practice of the electro-
lytic refining of copper, though reposing in the main on well-
ascertained scientific principles, involves the knowledge and use
of so many expedients and precautions that it is by no means
the easv and straightforward work which might be supposed.
In addition to the metals themselves, the oxides and sulphides
of some of them may be present hi the anedes, and some oxides
which cause difficulties are formed by the action of the current.
Those, for instance, of lead and tin are insoluble in sulphuric
acid. Others dissolve but slowly, and while Uiey remain on the
surface of the anodes they will act precisely as the lead peroxide
does in a secondary battery — that is to say, they wiU form
with the copper on the cathode a more or less powerful electric
couple, the E.M.F. of which acts in the opposite direction to that
of the current. Hence, the current must in such circumstances
have an E.M. F. sufficient to overcome this back force, in addition
to being able to overcome the resistances of the generator, con*
ductors, and electrolyte, and the cost of the deposition will be
proportionately increased. In practice, however, with anode
of the degree of purity generally used for electrofining thia
back E.M.F. is not considerable, as the whole E.M.F.
required to overcome all the conductive resistances and the
back force varies according to the current density used, between
a quarter and half a volt per tank. It should, however, be
mentioned that the oxides being relatively non-conductors, if
the position of the anode in the bftth be such that they accumu-
late on the surface of the latter and cannot escape, the con-
ductive resistance may be considerably increased. This is a
point of oonsideFable importance for two reasons : first, thA
94
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 22, 1892.
iucreue in the reiiatance increoBea the coat of the electric
current; and, neond, owing to the inoreaaed E.M.F. Deoea-
■arj to move n giTeii current through the cirouit, the deposition
of the other metaU which may hfive been diuolved into the
electrolyte is facilitated and the refining Mition of the current
correspondinnly diminiahed.
Oopper-refimnti Apparatus. — The pmctic&l appamtua required
to refine ruugh copper elBotrolylioally is of the simplest Kind.
A boiler, ateam engine, and dynamo are of course indupensable.
What the electrical output of the latter shall be is of course
detenniDed by the surface of anodes which it is intended t«
expose in any one tank or bath, the usual allowance being a
current of between four and five amperes per square foot of
surface. The E.M.F. of the current depends upon the
nnmber of tanks which it is intended to work in series— i.e..
through which it is intended to diive the current — and also on
the average of the combined Teaistanoea per tank. With a well-
artanged plant the difference of potential between the anode and
the cathode of each tank should be considerably less than half a
volt. The tanks are genersllT made of wood and measure
about 3ft. in each direction. Tbey are rendered acid-ptoof by
being lined with lead, or some composition into wtucli pitch
enters largely. It is of the utmost importance that the tanks
should be perfectly acid-proof, not only in order to avoid loss
of the electrolyte by leakage, but also to ensure the elec-
trical insulation ; for the sulpnate of copper solution, containing
as it does free sulphuric acid, is a very good conductor, and a
the floors in the neighbourhood of the tanks got to be saturated
with it a oonsiderable proportion of the current would be lost
to earth. On the tops of the sides of the tanks at front and
back are placed stripe of copper, which serve aa conductors, and
which are alternately connected. The anodes are square p&tes
of cast rough copper, the tops of which are in contact with rods
of the same metal, which rest on the two conductors, that end
which rests on the conductor which conveys the current to the
next tank being, of course, insulated. The cathodes are sheets
of thin copper similarly resting on the conductors, only in this
case the ends reposing on the other conductors are insulated.
Several anodes and cathodes are hung parallel to each other in
each tank, and when a sufficient thickness of electrolytic copper
is deposited on the cathodes they are removed from the bath
and ute deposited layer is easily split away from the original
cathode, which remains intact and ready for fresh use. The
thickness of the deposited copper on the cathode is a matter
principally affected by the capital at the disposal of the firm
for locking up in raw material. The electrolyte is formed by
dissolving 21b. of sulphate of copper to each gallon of water
and adding 8oz. of concentrated sulphuric acid. The aim of
the refiner is to procure a supplj' of rough copper containing a
good proportion of gold and silver. Many brands of copper
are exceedingly rich in the precious motals, and it is usual to
allow a certain proportion of the assay value free to customers.
Coit of tht Procesi.— The cost of the yieratioii of refining
copper is determined mainly by the difference of potentiid
between the anodes and cathodes in each tank. The
lower the latter, of course the less cost. It has been
shown that with a pure anode only sufficient E.M.F. haa
to be provided to overcome the ordina^ resistances, while
with an impure anode an additional difference in potential
is required to overcome the back E.M.F. due to the
accumulation of oxides on the anode, and a portion of the
energy of the current is of course absorbed in oxidising the
foreign metals present. It so happens that while it is easy by
the old methods to refine rough copper up to, say, 98 per cent.,
it is very difficult by these methods to get it still purer. By
the electrolytic methods, on the contrary, it is much easier to
take the last impurities out than it is to refine a really rough
copper. Thus, the two methods may be said to be complimen-
tary to each other, and in practice it is desirahle to bring the
metals by the older methods up to such a state that only about
2 to 3 per cent, of impurities remain in it. The princiiHil
resistance to conductivity is in the electrolyte itself. This
resistance can be diminished by reducing the length of liquid
which the current has to traverse and by increasing its cross-
section— that is to say, by bringing anode and cath^Me as close
together as is found to be practicable and by exposing aa Large
an area aa possible.
iTa be eotitintted.)
COMPANIES' REPORTS.
ST. JAMES'S AND PALL MALL ELECTRIC UOHT COMPANY.
Directors: Eustace J. A. Balfour, Esq. (chairman), H. Wood-
bum Kirbv, E«. (vice-chairman), Latimer Clark, Esq , F.R.S.,
Egerton H. CLarVe, Esq., Sir John H. MorrU, K.C.S.L, Charles
Sbowell, Esq. General manager and secretary : Frederic J.
Walker. Chief engineer : S. T. Dobson, A.M.I.C.E., M.LB.E.
Report of the Directors and statement of acoounte for the year
«odi^g 31st December, 11991, to bepreewted to the shareholders at
the ordinary genvral meeting to be held at the St. Jamea's Hall
Bestanrant on Tuesday next, at 3 p.m.
The Directors in snbmittins their annual report for 1391, with
acoount< as certified by the Company's auditors, congratulate the
shareholders on the eatisfactory progress made bv the Company
during the past year. Early in 1S91 the capital ef the Company
was increased from £100,000 to £200,000 by special reeolutioo of
the shareholders, creating 20,000 7 per cent, preference shares
of £5 each. Of these shares 10,000 wera iseced to the share-
holders at par, and fully subscribed for by them in March. The
balance of 10,000 shares was issued in December last at
30s. per share premium, and duly allotted to the fhareholders.
This last issue of shores placed £15,000 at the disposal of the
Directors as a capital reserve fund. The £15,000 has since been
invested in 2^ per cent, annuities, and is shown in the accounts
annexed hereto. The attention of the Directors has been largely
directed during the year Co the purchase of land for, and the erec-
tion of, a northern station. Owing to the congested condition of
the parish and the extreme scarcity of avi^ble ground this proved
to be a difficult matter. The Directors, however, are plecweo to be
able to report that they have secured a suitable freehold site in
Camaby-street, Regent- street, and have entered into'a contract
for the erection of the building on designs prepared by Mr. C.
Stanley Peach, F.R.I. B. A. A considerable portion of the machinery
and boilers required tor this station have a^ been C0DStnict«d, and
it is hoped that during the summer of this year the station will
be Gnisned and in working order. There are certain compulsory
mains which have to be laid in the parish before August next.
These, with other mains which the Board deem necessary to com-
plete the system, will be proceeded with without loss of time, and
there seems every reasonable probability of the whole of the work
being completed without any further capital being required. It
may be of mtereat to the shareholders to know that the two stations
will be connected by a (rrand trunk main, about half of which is
already completed and laid. This will be a means of enabling
the northern station to support the southern in case M
necessity, and viee vtrsd. The system adopted by the
Company has worked tbocoughly well during the whole
of the year, and the Directors are satisfied that it is the best
that could be selected having regard to present knowledge.
The experience gained at the Company's works enables the
Company's officiau to make improvemente from time to tune, and
no precaution is n^lected to maintain the exeellent reenlte
hitherto obtained. The net earnings of the Company during the
rt vear have amounted to £10,39.1. 12*. 5d. Of this sum £3,010.
4d. was distributed in July last in payment of an interim divi-
dend at the rate of T per cent per annum for the half-year ending
June 30. 1891. on the ordinary shares, and on the instalments pa^
on the first issue of preference shares. The iMlance of £6,7SS.
On. Id,, added to £315. 12a. 9d. (the undivided profit from last
year's account), leaves £7,100. ISs, lOd. now to bedealt with. The
Directors propose to divide this amount as follows — viz. :
(A) Kj payment of a dividend at the rate of 7 per
cent, per annum calculated on the instalmente
paid on the first issue of 10,000 preference shares
for the second half of the year £1,333 tt 8
(B) By payment of a dividend at the rate of 10 per
cent, per annum for the second half-year on the
ordinary shares, making, with the interim dividend
paid in July last, a total distribution of Bj per cent.
for the year 4,670 0 0
(C) By paying a dividend of £10. 15a, per share on
the founders' shares 1,075 0 0
(D) Amount to be carried forward to ordinary share-
holders' undivided profit account B 2 6
(E) Amount to l>e carried forward to lenders'
undivided profit accoant 16 9 8
£7,100 18 10
The Directors have carried £1,000 to redemption account to com-
mence a fund, to accumulate by annual additions, to represent loss
of capital at the expiration of the term covered by the provisional
order. The Directors are advised that ^e amounts provided in
the accounts for depreciation are sufficient and ample for all
purposes. Two of the directors— namely, Messrs. Egerton H.
Clarke and U. Woodburn Kirby retire under Clause 7S of the
articles of association, and, being eligible, offer themselves for
re-election. The auditors, Messrs. Deloitte, Dever, Griffiths, and
Co., also retire, and, being eligible, offer themselves for re-election.
Net Revkkcb Accovnv fok tmk Ybab endinu Slar Dbcbmbeb,
1891.
Dr. £ s. d. £ e. d.
Interest on debentures 3SS 0 0
Interest on calls In advance 71 IS 8
456 18 8
Balance, being net profits applicable to dividends
on shares 10,711 5 2
£ll,tes 3 10
Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d.
Balance from last account 2,666 12 9
Less dividend (5 per cent, paid on
ordinary aharee, free of inoome tax) 2,260 0 0
316 12 9
Balance from revenue account No. IV 10,662 6 10
Interest on money at depcmt .,. 290 4 3
£11,168 3 10
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 22, 1892.
95
Statement of Share Capital on 31st Deoembeb, 1891.
Description of capital.
£99,900, divided into
19.980 ordinary eharee
of £5 each
£100,000, divided into
20,000 preference shares
of £5 each
£100, divided into 100
founders' shares of £1
each
Authorised by.
1 Memorandum of asso-
I oiation
I Special resolution,
20th March, 1891...
!
f
Memorandum of asso-
ciation
Number
of shares
issued.
18,680
20,000
100
38,780
Nominal
amount
of share.
£
5
{
Called up
per share.
£5 on 10,000
10s. on 10,000
1
Total
paid up.
}
93,400
55,000
100
148,500
Issued,
not
paid up.
NU
45,000
NU
45,000
Remaining
unissued.
Shares
1,300
NU
Nil
1,300
Total
amount
authorised.
99,900
100,000
100
200,000
Statement of Loan Capital on 31st December, 1891.
Description of loan.
Amount borrowed.
Remaining bor-
rowing powers.
Total amount of borrowing powers.
At 6 per cent.
Total.
£
Six per cent, mortgage debentures. 6,500
£
6,500
£
93,500
One-half the nominal capital of the C/ompany
for the time being.
To share capital paid up. see No. I., £148,500. Total loan capital borrowed, see No. II., £6,500. Total capital received, £155,000.
Capital Account for the Year ending 31st December, 1891.
Expenditure up Expended Total expendi-
to 31st Dec. , during the ture up to 3l8t
Dr. 1890. year. Dec., 1891.
Land (including law £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d.
charges incidental to
acquisition) 9,598 0 8 20,297 7 8 29,895 8 4
BnUdings and paving. 11,186 0 7 1,958 14 11 13,144 15 6
Machinery and plant.. 27,905 6 4 12,056 11 11 39,961 18 3
Accumulators 1,596 5 5
Mains, including cost
of laying 28.631 11 1
Meters £Gced on in-
stallations 1,578 19 0
Switches fixed on in-
stallations 700 0 3
Stores and labour used
on installations 1,172 19 7
Electrical instru-
256 0 6
23 7 11 1,619 13 4
9,531 10 7 38,163 1 8
1,271 18 2 2,850 17 2
544 2 0
883 9 1
1,244 2 3
2,056 8 8
ments, etc
Patent rights
Cost of Ucense and
provisional order ...
Sinking artesian well
Office and other furni-
ture and fittings ...
Compensation
Expenses connected
with Board of Trade
enquiry
Preliminary expenses
Expenses of debenture
issue
Law and parliamen-
tary expenses
Management, general
expenses and in-
terest to 3l8t De-
cember, 1889, less
receipts 5,337 9 6
705 10 2
668 2 6
510 1 5
392 13 10
152 8 7
920 1 11
275 7 4
539 19 6
106 9 1
30 0 0
286 17 6
207 3 2
105 10 0
28 1 9
362 9 7
30 0 0
705 10 2
955 0 0
717 4 7
392 13 10
152 8 7
1,025 11 11
275 7 4
568 1 3
Revenue Account for the Year ending 31st December, 1891.
A. — To Generation and Distribution of Electricity.
Dr. £ s. d. £ s. d.
Coal and other fuel, including dues,
carriage, etc 4,668 8 3
Oil, waste, water, and engine-room
stores 77117 2
Salaries of engineers and officers 609 12 6
Wage8 at generating and distributing
stations 2,835 2 0
Repairs, maintenance, and renewals,
as follows :
1. Buildings £562 8 2
2. Engine and boilers 669 3 8
3. Dynamos 186 14 2
4. Other machinery,
instruments, and
tools 145 0 6
5. Accumulators 4 13 10
6. Lamps (at station) 134 4 1
Repairs, maintenance, and renewals
of mains
Miscellaneous expenses
1,702 4 5
527 15 6
72 13 4
5,337 9 6
£92,126 18 2 47,331 3 9 139,458 1 11
Balance of capital accoant 15,541 18 1
£155,000 0 0
Receipts up to Received dur-Total receipts
Dec. 31, 1890. ing the year. toDec.31,1891
£ s. d. £ 8. d. £ 8. d.
Cr.
Ordinary shares, 18,680
of £5 each 44,880 0 0 48,520 0 0 93,400 0 0
Preference shares
10,000 of £5 each,
fully paid
Preference shares
10,000 of £5 each,
lOs. paid
Founders' shares, 100
of£l
6 per cent, mortg^e
debentures 60,000
converted into
oniinary shares dur-
ing 1891 43,500 0 0
100 0 0
0 0
50,000 0 0 50,000 0 0
5,000 0 0 5,000 0 0
— 100 0 0
B. — To Rents, Rates, and Taxes.
Rents payable 419 2 9
Rates and taxes 360 14 10
11,187 13 2
C. — To Management Expenses.
Directors' remuneration 1,155 1 5
Salaries of general manager and secre-
tary, engineer, clerks, etc 1,816 0 3
Stationery, printing, and advertising 353 6 0
General establishment charges 247 2 5
Auditors of Company 52 10 0
D. — To Law and Parliamentary Charges.
Law expenses
E. — To Special Charges.
Insurance 158 13 8
Brokerage on shares 14 1 0
779 17 7
F. — To Depreciation.
Depreciation on buUdings 285 8 10
Depreciation on plant, machinery, etc. 3,727 19 1
G.—To Redemption Fund.
Provision for recoupment of capital expenditure ...
3,624 0 1
558 14 7
172 14
4,013 7 11
1,000 0 0
21,336 8 0
Balance carried to net revenue account ..^ 10,562 6 10
Cr.
£31,898 14 10
£ B. d.
6,500 0 0
£155,000 0 0
Sale of current, after deducting provision for bad
and doubtful debts 30,934 14 4
Sale of current under contracts 215 3 6
Rental of meters on consumers' premises 362 2 11
Rents receivable 100 0 0
Transfer fees 117 9 6
Discounts on purchases 134 14 9
Sale of old materials, stores, etc 34 9 10
i;&v^^is^Yvv^
96
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 22, 1892.
Dr. Capital Reserve Fui^d. £ s. d.
Balance 15,000 0 0
Cr. £ 8. d.
Premium of £1. 10b per share on iflsae of 10,000
preference shares in Deoember, 1891 15,000 0 0
Dr. Depreciation Fund. £ s. d.
Balance 5,819 19 6
£5,819 19 5
Cr. h 8. d.
Balance from last aoooant, December 31, 1890 1,806 11 6
Amount brouj^ht from revenae account No. IV 4,013 7 11
£5,819 19 5
Dr. Redemption Fund. £ s. d.
Balance 1,000 0 0
Cr. £ 8. d.
Amount brought from revenue account No. IV 1,000 0 0
General Balance-sheet, 31st December, 1891.
Dr. £ 8. d.
Capital account —
Amount received as per account No. Ill 155,000 0 0
Sundry tradesmen and others, due on construction
of plant and machinery, fuel, stores, etc 902 10 2
Snndury creditors on open accounts 1,065 5 11
Shareholders— for calls paid in advance^(due Ist
January, 1892) 9,451 16 8
Unclaimed dividends 0 11 2
Capital reserve fund 15,000 0 0
Depreciation fund 5,819 19 5
Redemption fund 1,000 0 0
Net revenue account —
Balance at credit thereof £10,711 5 2
Less interim dividends paid on
ordinary and preference shares. 3,610 6 4
7,100 18 10
Cr.
Capital account— amount expended for works, as
per account No. Ill
Stores on hand-
Coal £724 0 0
Lamps 32 15 7
Meters and switches 103 19 8
General, including oil, waste, etc. 1,360 0 9
Sundry debtors for current supplied 9,852 13 3
Otherdebtors 54 0 6
£195,341 2 2
£ 8. d.
139,458 1 11
Cash at bankers (Lloyd's Bank,
Limited), including deposit of
£27,000 28,726 8 1
Cash in hand 29 2 5
2,220 16 0
9,906 13 9
28,755 10 6
Capital reserve fund investments, 2^ per cent,
annuities 15,(K)0 0 0
£195,341 2 2
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
DIRECT UNITED STATES CABLE COMPANY.
The twenty-ninth ordinary general meeting of this Company
was held at Winchester House on Friday, the chairman, Sir John
Pender, K.C.M.G., presiding.
Having referred in sympathetic terms to the death of the Duke
of Clarence, the dudrmaa said that the revenue for the half • vear
ended the 31st ult., after deducting the out-payments, had been
£45,402, while the working and oUier expenses, including income
tax, but excluding the cost of repairs, had absorbed £17,673,
leaving a balance of £27,729 as the net profit of the half-year,
which was increased by the amount brought forward to £31,231.
Interim dividends of &. 6d. a share had been paid for the quarter
ended September 30 last, and for the quarter ended the 31st ult.,
£5,000 had been added to the reserve fund, and a balance of
£4,983 had been carried forward. The revenue showed an increase
of £2,055 compared with thatof the corresponding period of last year.
The M'Kinley tariff had no doubt restricted trade m many quarters,
and but for the large operations in erain owing to the deficient
harvest in Europe, the revenue of the Company would prob-
ably have shown a falling off. The reserve f una account had oeen
charged with £4,478 for the cost of repairs of cable, but it had
been credited with £4,303 interest on investments, and with £5,000
from the revenue account, increasing the balance of the reserve
account to £259,680. There was no doubt that the preparations
for next year's great exhibition would benefit their revenue, but
until such a growth of telegraphy came as to fully employ all the
cables in the Atlantic they did not think they could look forward
to anv very large increase in their returns. During the past six
months they had had to effect one repair In their cables, and in
oarrying out this work they took up a portion of the cable, which
i9JVAb«ooDdition«B to satisfy them that although it was
17 years old, it had a considerable number of years of life in it yet.
He moved the adoption of the report.
This was seconded by Kr. Wm. Ford, and carried unanimously.
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
MetropoUtaB Uglit ComiMuiy, Limited.— Re«6tered by J.
Hands, 15, Old Jewry-chambers, with a capital of £5,000 in £1
shares. Object : to acquire the undertaking of D. C. Defries, now
carried on at 43 and 44, Holbom-viaduct, under the style of the
Metropolitan Light Company, in accordance with an agreement
made between D. C. Defnes of the one part and this Company of
the other part, and generally to carry on business as gas, electncal,
and general engineers. There shall not be less than three nor
more than five Directors. The first to be appointed by D. C.
Defries. Qualification: D. C. Defries, as managing oirector,
£1,000 ; ordinary Directors, £500.
BUSINESS NOTES.
West Indi* and Panama Telegrapli Compaajr. — The receipts
for the half-month ended January 15 were £2,331, against £2,791.
St. Jamee*a and Pall Hall Company.— The Directors recom-
mend a dividend at the rate of 10 per cent, per annum on the
ordinary shares for the half-year ended December 31, 1891.
National Telephone Company. — The Directors have unani-
mously elected Mr. James Staats Forbes, one of the vice-presidents,
as president of the Company, in succession to the late Mr. Frederick
Richards Leyland.
City and flonth London Ballwajr. — The receipts for the week
ending 17th inst. were £836, against £765 for the oorrespondinff
week of last year, showing an increase of £71. As comparad with
the week endmg Jan. 10th, the receipts show a decrease of £22.
Xloetrlo Contraetors. — An electrical department has been
added to the business of Messrs. H. Turner and Son, ironmongers
and cutlers, 28, Villiers-street, Strand, W.C. Messrs. H. Turner
and Son announce themselves prepaiiDd to submit estimates for
electrical work of every description, especially electric lighting and
wiring.
Bnuh Sloetrloal Xnglnoorlng Company. — The Directors have
declared an interim dividend upon both the ordinary and prefer-
ence shares of the Company at the rate of 6 per cent, per annum
for the six months ended 3 Ist December last, payable en the 15tb
February next. The transfer-books of the Company will be closed
from the 20th to the 27th inst.
Lalng, Wbnrton, and Down. — With regard to the recent
removal of the offices of the Laing, Wharton, and Down Construc-
tion Syndicate, Ijimited, to 38, Parliament-street, Westminster, this
change in no way relates to the old-established firm of Messrs.
Lainff, Wharton, and Down, whose address remains 82a, New
Bond-street, W., with the addition of branch and City offices at
17, Gracechurch-street.
The Anglo-Amerloan Tolograpli Company recommend a
balance, dividend of 16s. per cent, on the ordinary consolidated
stock for the year onding December 31, and balance dividend of
£1. 12b. per cent, upon the preferred stock .for the year ending
December 31. both payable on January 30, less income tax, to the
stockholders registered on the books on the 12th inst. After
paying the foregoing dividends there will be a balance of £864 to
DO carried forward. The above dividends, together with those
already paid, will amount to £2. 12b. 6d. per cent, on the ordinary
and £5. os. per cent, on the preferred stocks for the year 1891.
City of London Xloetrlo Mglittng Company.— In fulfilment of
the pledge given at the statutory meeting, that shareholders
should have tne first offer of the unissued 9,sS8 ordinary shares in
the Company, the Directors have decided to allot the whole of
these pro rata to shareholders on the register on January 14th. A
circular has therefore been issued by Mr. J. Cecil Bull, secretary,
offering shareholders shares at the rate of as nearly as possible one
for every three held, at 5s. premium. The first payment of £3. 5s.
per share will be due to-morrow (Saturday), ind if not paid by
then the allotment will be forfeited. After the second payment of
£3 per share on February Ist next, the shares now allotted will
rank pari jxumt in all respects with existing shares.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Name
Brush Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, Gutta Peroha k Telegraph Co
House-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Slectric Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Electric Constmotion
Westminster Electric
Liverpool Veotrio Supply |
Price
Paid.
Wednei
d»j
_
H
—
2|
10
19*
5
H
-^
10
5
11
8i
^i
8{
5
10
6i
6i
5
5
3
n
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 29, 1892.
»7
NOTES.
Chnroli Ughtiiiff.— The electric light has been installed
at All Saints' Church, Southampton.
Anstiiai. — ^An electrical tramway is contemplated in
Austria between Mahuish-Oshan and Prziwos.
Crystal Palaoe.— The visit of the Lord Mayor and
Lady Mayoress to the Electrical Exhibition will take place
on 6th February.
St. Petenbnrg.— The electrical exhibition at St.
Petersburg was formally opened on Saturday by the Russian
Minister of Finance.
Station Burnt.— The central station at Ferdinand-
street, Boston, U.S. was burnt to the ground last Saturday,
and one man lost his life in the ruins.
Mnniolpal Ughtlnflr. — One of the Paris municipal
councillors, it is stated, is preparing a work on the electric
lighting of towns, with full and interesting figures.
Santa Fe.— The electric light, it is stated, in Santa F^
has proved a failure, and the municipality has returned to
kerosene. There must be reasons for this, and it would be
well to know these.
National Tolephonos.— On Wednesday the Exami-
ners on Standing Orders passed the National Telephone
Company and New Telephone Company's Bills for
obtaining further telephone facilities.
Old Stndonts' Danoo.— A Cinderella dance will be
held by the Old Students' Association on Friday, February
19, at the Westminster Town Hall. Tickets, 3s. 6d. each,
of the Hon. Sec., 28, Lanhill-road, Elgin-avenue, W.
Anglo-Fronoh Tolophono.— The French Chamber
has adopted the convention concluded with Great Britain
defining tha conditions, workine;, and use of the telephone
communications between the two countries.
Taoht UffhtinfiT. — The yacht '* Tycho Brahe,"
belonging to Mr. " Bonne-Chance " Wells — Uie gentleman
who broke the bank at Monte Carlo — has been luxuriously
lighted with electric light by Messrs. Laing, Wharton, and
Down.
Portsmonth. — ^At the meeting of the Portsmouth
Town Council last week the question of the report from
the Electric Lighting Committee was brought forward by
the Mayor, but was adjourned until the next monthly
meeting.
Blootrlo BzhlUtlon at Mosoow. — An electric exhi-
bition is to be held at Moscow, from April 14 to October 14,
1892. It will comprise 12 divisions of electric engineering.
New inventions shown will not lose the right to be patented
in Bussia.
Tondors I6r Manohostor.^As will be seen by their
advertisements, the Manchester Cas Committee are now
open to receive tenders for the supply of dynamos and for
the supply and laying of culverts and electric light mains.
These must be sent in by Feb. 23rd.
Bmssols. — The result of the tenders for Brussels is not
yet announced. The six firms tendering have been invited
to furnish graphical diagrams of working. It is expected
that a central station to light 10,000 lamps in winter and
5,000 in summer will be first erected.
Spain. — Three additional towns in Spain, states
Industries, are endeavouring to obtain permission to erect
central electric light stations. One is Linares, the lead-
producing centre ; the next is Baesa, a small town in
Andalusia ; and, lastly, Alcaniz, in Aragon.
Chloago Exhibition. — The est'**iifl«:Q8 of the electric
light to be used in the World's Fa: . Obicago show that
twice as many electric lights will be used as there are at
present in the whole of Chicago. The plans call for 10
times the capacity of all the plant used in the Paris
Exhibition.
Sooloty of Arts. — In consequence of the illness of
Prof. W. C. Unwin, F.R.S., the Howard lectures on *• The
Development and Transmission of Power from Central
Stations," which he was announced to deliver on the
5th February and five following Friday evenings, has been
postponed.
Tho Bmsh Ck>mpany. — Mr. Oarcke has resigned
the position of managing director of the Brush Electrical
Engineering Company, but he retains his seat at the board
of directors. Mr. Raworth and Mr. Sellon have been
appointed joint managers, and Mr. (}eipel has been
appointed superintending engineer of the company.
Tntbnry. — A movement is on foot to provide Tutbury
with the electric light. It appears that motive power
exists at the mill occupied by Messrs. Staton, and with
little outlay sufficient light could be obtained. A circular
has been issued to the parishioners, and the reply to this
will determine whether the new light will be adopted.
Mr. Tosla's Lootnro. — An extraordinary general
meeting of the Institution of Electrical Engineers is to be
held, by kind permission of the managers, at the Boyal Insti-
tution, Albemarle-street, on Wednesday, 3rd February, at
8 p.m., when Mr. Nikola Tesla will give his paper upon
" Experiments with Alternate Currents of High Potential
and High Frequency."
Blootrlo Boats. — The General Electric Traction Com*
pany have recently taken the shipbuilding yard lately
occupied by Des Yignes, and are now engaged in building
the hulls of their electric launches, which are fitted with
gearing at the works at Piatt's Island. They have three
boats now in hand — one of these, a 25ft. boat, is a second
order from a private gentleman for use on the Thames.
Tho Soa Sorpont at Last. — ^In the Machinery
Department of the Electrical Exhibition at the Crystal
Palace may be seen a fine specimen of the *' Gymnotus
electricus,'' or sea serpent. This animal having swallowed
a portion of the shore end of the Atlantic cable of 1859,
became transformed into a powerful electrical machine. In
the process of grappling for the fault the body was brought to
the surface, and will be the subject of some interesting
experiments !
Sooondary Battorlos. — ^The work upon " Sesondary
Batteries : being a Description of the Modern Apparatus for
the Storage of Electrical Energy," by Mr. J. T. Niblett,
illustrated, is now published (Biggs and Co., 3s. 6d.). The
work is not a theoretical disquisition on the action of
secondary batteries, but rather a careful description of all
the recent commercial developments of Plant^'s discovery,
and one which it is hoped will be of great service to elec-
trical engineers.
" Toaj>Book of Conunoroo." — We have received the
third year's issue of the "Year-Book of Commerce,"
being a statistical volume of reference for business-men,
compiled by Kenric B. Murray, of the London Chamber of
Commerce, assisted by members of numerous statistical
societies ; published by Cassell's ; price 5s. For those who
have to do with foreign trade, the state of the labour
market, agriculture, exports, and so forth, the book must
prove one of great value.
Blootrlo Powor for tho City. — The Streets Com-
mittee of the City Commissioners of Sewers reported on
Tuesday relative to a communication from the Board of
Trade asking for the Commission's opinion on the systems
by means of which electrical energy was to be supplied
under the City electric lighting orders. They stated tha^t^
98
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 29, 1892.
Uiey aseertuned from Mr. W. H. Praece, F.RS., that no
objections could be r&isad to the proposed modes of dis-
tributing electrical energy.
Cantor Leotnrea — Prof. Forbes will continae his
Cantor lectures at the Society of Arts on Monday,
February let, at 8 p.m., on " Developments of Electrical
Distribution," dealing with high-pressure supply ; old
attempts ; alternate currents ; transformers ; feeders ; sub-
statjons ; overhead and underground conductors ; genera-
tion of electricity by power obtained from a distance, from
electricity, gas, compressed air, and water under pressure ;
load factors ; waste products.
Kleetrioltr in Affrioaltnm. — Prof. Warner, of
Amherst Agricultural College, Massachusetts, has been
making a series of investigations upon the influence of
electricity in agriculture. The results of the research will
be published. Mr. W. W. Rawson, market gardener, of
Arlington, whose experiments we have already mentioned,
has found that the use of electric light has increased his
profits from the growth and sale of lettuces, etc., by more
than 26 per cent — a practical enough effect.
Telephones In Hotela. — An indication of the ex-
tending use of the telephone for private use is shown in
the fact that The Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool, has been fitted
with a complete interior telephonic installation. Each
room on the three principal floors of the building is fitted
with a call-box and magnetic transmitter, by means of
which visitors may communicate with each other or with
the hotel staff at any moment. The work was carried out
by Mr. G. A. Nusbaum, of 29, Ludgate-bill, E.C.
Xleotrlcal XnglneeTiuff as a ProffBition.— The
University of Sydney have recognised the claims of elec-
trical engineering by adopting a proposal by Prof, Threlfall
at the last meeting of the senate, "that the faculty cordially
approves of Prof. Threlfall's proposal for the establishment
of a curriculum in electrical engineering, and recommends
that it be carried out by the senate, including the sugges-
tion of a grant of £300 for the necessary apparatus." It
was also decided that the curriculum should lead up to the
degree of Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engi-
neering.
Where the Proat Ooes.— The London County
Council have found that, in order to supervise efficiently
the work of installing the electric light in the central
ofBoes, it has been found necessary to employ an assistant
inspector {Mr. J. J, Thornton) at £2 a week. Inasmuch
as the extra assistance has been necessitated by the con-
tractor'a request to be allowed to work until 11.30 p.m,,
they think it would be reasonable to charge half the cost to
Messrs. Andrews, the contractors, and have accordingly
authorised the employment of the assistant inspector on
that understanding.
Telephone Service in Bnlsarla.— The new tele-
phone service between Sofia and Philippopolis, a distance
of 100 miles, was inaugurated with considerable ceremony
on the 24th inst by Prince Ferdinand in person. All the
arrangements, which had been organised with great care by
M. Matheff, Director-General of Posts and Telegraphs, were
most successfully carried out. Amongst the distinguished
personages present were M. Stambuloff {the Premier), M.
Grecoff {Minister for Foreign Affairs), several members of
the diplomatic body, and a number of civil and military
officials of high rank.
Technical Xnstraotlon at Darlington. — The
Technical Instruction Committee appointed by the Dar-
lington Town Council have, with the grants from the County
Council for technical education, made a good beginning by
Arranging with Principal Garnett, of the College of Science,
of Newcastle, for the course of 12 lectures en electrical
engineering. The charge for the course is nominal. The
first lecture was given at the Kend row-street Board Schools,
and was well attended, the new departure being regarded
with great interest by the leaders of education in the town,
who are represented on the committee.
Cltr and North Ztondon Ridlwiv- — Amongst the
private Bills which have passed the initiatory stage of the
Standing Orders is that of the Great Northern and City
RaOway Company, which, by the creation of a now com-
pany with capital powers to the extent of £1,500,000 and
£500,000 borrowing powers, proposes to construct a new
line of electric railway from the Great Northern line near
Finsbury Park to Finsbury -pavement, upon the same
principle and by the assistance of the same engineer, Mr.
Greathead, as that which has been adopted by the already
existing line of the City and Sooth London Railway.
London County Conneil Offices. — The installation
about which some comment was recently made, that
for the London County Council's offices, is now nearly
ready, and will be open for inspection and use shortly.
The contract was let, it will be remembered, to Messrs.
J. D. F. Andrews end Co., of 41, Parliament-street, for
£1,490, the highest tender being nearly double this. It
must not be supposed, however, that this was due to the use
of Mr. Andrews's concentric wire system, as it was specially
specified to have the two-wire conductors in casing. There
are nearly 400 incandescent lamps, including fittings, all
separately specified.
Chlcasro KxhlbiUon Committee. — The first meeting
of the Electricity Committee was held on Tuesday after-
noon, 26th inst. Present : W. H. Preece, F.R.S., in the
chair ; Sir Frederick Abel, K.C.B., D.CL., F.R.S., Colonel
E. T. Armstrong, C.B., K.E., R. E. B. Crompton, Prof,
James Dewar, M.A., F.R.S,, Major-General E. R. Festing,
F.RS., Prof. George Forbes, M.A., F.R.S., Prof. G. Carey
Foster, F.R.S., Edward Graves, Prof. D. E. Hughes,
F.R.a..Gi8bert Kapp, J, C. Lamb. C.M.G., W. M. Mordey,
J. Fletcher Moulton, M.A., Q.C., F.R.S.. Prof. John Perry,
D.Sc., F.R.S., Alexander Siemens, Prof. Silvanus P.
Thompson, D.Sc, F.R.S., with Sir Henry T, Wood,
secretary of the Royal Commission.
Uverpool. — At the weekly meeting of the Liverpool
Watch Committee, on Monday, the application by the
Liverpool Electric Supply Company, Limited, for the
Corporation to consent to a provisional order whereby the
power of compulsory purchase should be fixed at 42 years,
and the charge for electricity be made 8d, per unit all
round, was not granted, the feeling of the committee being
that to do so would not be desirable from their point of
view. The matter had been reported upon by the city
engineer, and last week a memorial was presented to the
committee signed by 448 commercial firms in the centre of
the city, using 13,379 lamps, askingjthe Corporation to
grant the request of the company.
Leeds. — At a meeting of the Property Committee of
the Leeds Corporation held last week, the committee had
before them various matters affecting the electric lighting
of the Municipal Buildings and Town Hall. It was resolved
to recommend the Council to put a fresh installation in the
Free Library, and overhaul the existing installation in the
rest of the building and the Town Hall. It was stated that
the installation in the library was put in when the buildings
were erected, and it was now found that the wires were too
small to carry the current. All the other parts were in
good order. Mr. Nichol, of the borough engineer's office,
was appointed to superintend the work, subject to the con-
firmation of the Council. The cost is estimated at about
£500,
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, .TANUARY 29, 189^.
9»
Searoh-Iiights for the French Army.— The first
of a series of experiments for the purpose of testing the
qualities of a new electric light for use in the French Army
has been made on the exercise ground at Satory, and a
satisfactory result has been obtained. The object of the
lamp, which resembles the search-lights used in the navy,
is to facilitate night attacks, by rendering the movements
of the enemy perfectly visible while concealing those of the
o£Fensive side. If adopted, the new light will enable troops
to fire at the enemy without furnishing their opponents
with any indication to guide their return fire but the flash
of the rifles. In order that the lamp may be transported
easily from place to place, it is mounted on a light carriage
with high wheels, which will enable it to be used on any
kind of ground.
Battersea. — The Electric Lighting Committee of the
Battersea Vestry reported at the last meeting that they had
considered as to the application to the Board of Trade by
the Putney and Hammersmith Electric Light and Power
Supply Company for a provisional order, and had conferred
with the representatives of the company. The committee
recommended that the Board of Trade be informed that
the subject of electric lighting of the whole of the parish is
at the present moment under the careful consideration of a
committee specially appointed by the Vestry for the
purpose, and that the Board of Trade be asked to defer
their final decision upon the application for a short time
to enable the Vestry to receive and consider the committee's
report upon the subject and to come to a conclusion thereon.
The recommendations were adopted.
Prtmary Batteries. — Offices have been opened at 29,
Lloyd's-row, Clerkenwell, by the Maison Battery Company
for a new form of primary battery for domestic lighting.
When they have had some installations running success-
fully for a few months we hope they will send us particu-
lars, especially as to cost and trouble of maintenance, as
given by the users. We notice that it is claimed — nay,
guaranteed — that an output of 1,000 watt hours can be
obtained at a cost of 8^d., and they defy any other battery
to come near this. We should think so ! They give 2^
amperes for 17 hours on short circuit without attention : all
that is needful is a " fresh charge of exhitant " — a new
name, we suppose, for '' secret solution." There are many
other advantages claimed, all of which we hope are
possible of demonstration — but we doubt it.
Electric Light Siffnalling. — Experiments are being
carried out on board the Torpedo School ship " Defiance "
at Devonport under the direction of the torpedo officers
and officers of the Royal Engineers with arrangements for
night signalling by means of electric lights placed at the
masthead. The experiment has frequently been tried, but
hitherto with only partial success, owing to the difficulty of
rendering the flashes distinct from each other, the lamps
continuing to exhibit a faint glow for some time after the
electric current has been shut off. Owing to this disad-
vantage, signalling by electric lamps can at present only be
carried out at the rate of less than 50 words per minute,
which is not found to be sufficiently rapid. Incandescent
lamps are used, and the connection is made and cut ofi"
from the deck. It has been suggested that greater rapidity
could be assured by using two sets of lamps.
Electric Sidewalk.— At the World's Fair, Chicago,
the electric sidewalk is now in operation. It consists of
an endless elevated track, elliptical in shape, 900ft. long,
on which two continuous tracks move, a portion at three
miles an hour, and a further portion at six miles an hour,
the latter being furnished with seats. A passenger can
easily step off the stationary part to the slower track and
again to the quicker moving track. It thus forms a con-
tinuous tramcar, on which the passenger can step off when
desired. The system is patented, and this track has been
put down to demonstrate the practicability of the system
by a company of which Mr. Arnold P. Gilmour is presi-
dent. It is thought to be a valuable system for moving
large masses of people over moderate distances, and will be
used for this purpose at the exhibition. It is driven by a
107-h.p. Thomson-Houston motor, and is practically noise-
less in operation.
Tenders fcr Sydney and Melbourne. — ^Advices
from these Australian cities state that both are acting
simultaneously as regards electric lighting. It is decided
to give time enough in asking for tenders to allow of some
of the great European firms to send in tenders for the
necessary work. It is almost needless to point out that the
firm obtaining either Sydney or Melbourne, or both, or the
firms obtaining these contracts will be put into a most
favourable position with regard to Australian business.
Strenuous efforts will therefore be made to get the con-
tracts, and our large firms must not rest satisfied with
mere compliance with the letter of the specification, but
must strain every nerve to obtain the work and make it
successful. Many of the firms to which we refer have
agents in Australia, and ought to be well acquainted with
every move of the authorities, hence there ought to be no
delay when the time comes to take action.
Thomson Electric Welding, — The Electric Welding
Company, who purchased the Thomson electric welding
patents at a high figure, have taken offices at 6, Groat
George-street, where they have photographs of an immense
variety of electric welding machines for all purposes, from
watchchains up to sheet anchors. The managing director
is Mr. M. F. Armstrong ; the secretary is Mr. G. Ensor
Mount ; and the manager Mr. William Parker. Machines
have been installed in several parts of the county, besides
Birmingham and Newcastle, and specimens are shown,
amongst other things, of axes, of which the steel cutting
edge is welded to an iron body. Numerous specimens of
cannon shell welded by this process were lately on view
from the U.S. Navy department. Electrical engineers will
await with interest the details of the company's work,
which it is probably too early yet to comment upon. The
field is large ^d, it is to be hoped the success will be
coincident. O ;^ ij U 0 \)
Rival Lighting Companies in Holhom. — Mr.
Claremont, of the Metropolitan Electric Supply Corpora*
tion, waited on the Holborn Board of Works at their
meeting last week to ask them not to consent to the appli-
cation of another company to supply Holborn with electric
light. There was not sufficient demand in Holborn, he
maintained, to warrant the establishment of another
company in the district. His corporation had endeavoured
in every way possible to give satisfaction, and had never
had a complaint or a breakdown ; and, besides, their price
was cheaper by fd. a unit than that of any other company
in London. In reply to a member, Mr. Claremont said
that the company's station was capable of supplying far
more light than they had application for. Mr. Moss, on
behalf of the County of London Electric Company, Limited,
asked the Board to assent to the application of his company.
The Vestries of Clerkenwell and St. Luke had already
given, he added, their consent to the application to the
Board of Trade. The Board decided to grant the applica-
tion of the County of London Electric Company, Limited.
A Great Electric Railway Scheme. — A telegram
from DalzieFs correspondent at St. Louis, Michagan, says
that a company has been incorporated at Springfield,
Illinois, for the purpose of constructing an electric railroad
from St. Louis to Chicago. The company proposes to lay
ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 29, 189^.
straight as an arrow, upon which it
electric cars, which will travel at the
rate of 100 miles an hour, and thus compass the distance in
two hours and a half instead of eight hours, as now. The
power station will be at Clinton, Illinois, where the company
will work a coal mine of its own, using electric drills and
mining machinery. In time, it is added, the line is
expected to become a boulevard of farmers' houses, standing
on city lots, while behind them will stretch wheat fields.
The houses will be lighted and heated by electricity, and
reapers, mowers, and thrashers will be driven by electric
power. Among the directors is Dr. Wellington Adams,
termed the inventor of the first electric motor. Nearly the
entire right of way has been secured, and within a few
weeks the contracts will all be let out. The company will
endeavour to have the line in operation in time for the
World's Fair. Another telegram states that the capital is
one million dollars, and that Edison's system is to be used.
London Elootrio Mains. — The London County
Council have sanctioned the laying of mains by the London
Electric Supply Company in Stamford-street, Waterloo
Bridge-road, and Westminster Bridge-road, on condition
that the works in Westminster Bridge-road when once
oommenced be carried on continuously by day and by night
until completed ; that the mains be laid under the foot-
ways, and be kept 9in. below the under side of the paving
wherever it is found practicable to do so ; that where the
mains cross the carriageways they be kept at the same depth
below the concrete or the road material as the case may be ;
that the positions of the street boxes, and the mode of
construction of them, shall be submitted to and approved
by the Council's chief engineer ; that all pipes or openings
from or into the boxes shall be of such shape as to remove
all risk of injury to the covering of the cables ; that all
cables crossing the boxes shall be supported from below in
the boxes ; that all service lines or small cables shall be
protected, where leaving the boxes, by an extra lead
covering or by wooden stoppers, and shall also have a
copper wire of sufficient size carried from the service to the
main cable, in good connection with the lead or iron outer
casing ; and that the ends of all mains terminating else-
where than in a box shall be securely protected by iron
caps, in addition to any other covering.
Eleotrio Traotion at Liverpool. — In moving the
report of the Liverpool Tramway Company, the chairman
referred to mechanical haulage, which they were anxious to
see introduced on the line. Compressed air was expensive,
and cables necessitated breaking up the streets. "Elec-
tricity," he said, " has been tried, and it answers well as a
haulage power, but commercially the price is far more than
horses. We had an offer for electrical haulage at 7d.
per mile, with an additional charge of £1,600 for
each car with its electrical machinery attached. The
7d. per mile is much more relatively than the cost
of horse haulage, exclusive of the capital outlay of £1,600
for each car, and as we have 234 cars the total outlay would
amount to £374,400. The company who made this offer
of 7d. a mile, after making a long trial on our streets,
offered the Glasgow Corporation the same service at
3^. per mile, or just one-half the price offered to
us. In explanation of this enormous difference they
urged the physical difficulties of Liverpool by reason
of the hilly streets in comparison with Glasgow.
The latter city is considered to have streets with very
steep gradients, but that the difficulties of our streets are
infinitely greater appears to be quite true, because we have
a written statement to that effect from the eminent com-
pany who made the trial on our lines during the last two
years."
Telegraphing \l^thoat Wires. — ^Among the recent
American patents is an interesting one by Edison for
transmitting signals electrically without the interposition
of connecting wires. In his specification he states he has
discovered that, if sufficient elevation be obtained to over-
come the curvature of the earth's surface and to reduce to
the minimum the earth's absorption, electric telegraphing
or signalling between distant points can be carried on by
induction without the use of wires connecting the distant
points. This discovery is especially applicable to tele-
graphing across bodies of water, or for communicating
between ships at sea or between ships at sea and points on
land, it being necessary, however, on land to increase
the elevation, and the use of stationary balloons is
mentioned. At sea, from an elevation of 100ft., com-
munication can be made to a great distance, and the masts
of the vessel, fitted with suitable metal plates, are suitable
Connection is made to earth, and the high-resistance
secondary circuit of an induction coil is placed in circuit
between the condensing surface and the ground. The
primary circuit includes a battery and a device for making
the signals. Completion of the circuit produces impulses
in the secondary, producing electrostatic impulses at the
condenser ; these are transmitted inductively through the
air, and are made audible by the electromotograph in the
distant condenser. By repeating the signals from ship to
ship communication is to be established over the largest
seas, or even oceans, while collisions between ships in fogs
would be prevented. It is a very pretty idea worked out
from his previous experiments in the induction telegraph,
and we hope it may prove successful in practice.
Llangollen. — An installation has been just completed
by Mr. William Sillery, of Wrexham, for R. Graisser, Esq.,
of Argoed Hall, near Llangollen, the proprietor of the
Ruabon Chemical Works. The generating plant is placed
at the chemical works, and consists of a Crompton
dynamo, 110 volts, and a set of 60 accumulators used for
lighting the works ; arc lamps are also used. During the day
the dynamo is run to charge 40 accumulators, 1^ miles away,
at Mr. Graisser's residence. The accumulators used here
throughout were patented by Mr. Sillery in April last
year, manufactured by Messrs. Walker Parker, Limited,
Chester. It is interesting to mention in connection with
this installation that a third wire for telephone has been
successfully erected upon the same poles as the electric
leads communicating with the chief offices at Argoed Hall,
near Llangollen. The leads cross the River Dee directly,
and pass underneath the famous canal aqueduct built 100
years ago, then the wonder of the age. Mr. Sillery has
also been directed by Mr. Graisser to devise a scheme to
drive his works by electricity, obtaining the necessary power
from the River Dee, where there is an abundant supply of
water. — An installation has further just been completed at
the mansion of K S. Clark, Esq., proprietor of Llay Hall
Colliery, driven from a Crompton dynamo, three quarters of
a mile distant, at the colliery, into 43 accumulators, KP.S.
type, 31-plate cells, and giving entire satisfaction. Mr. Sillery
is also now placing the electric light down the pit, for which
purpose four dynamos are being installed, with engine and
house on suriace to act as reserves for the Llay Hall
Colliery, to which colliery he is electrical engineer. The
cables and wires used throughout, also insulators, were
supplied by the Telegraph Manufacturing Company, Helsby,
near Warrington.
Sohanaohieir Batteries. — We were shown the draft
prospectus of a new company the other day, with the
imposing title of the Central Electric Company, with some
well-known names as directors ; capital J&50,000. Thinking
it was possibly a new railway or electric light company, we
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 29, 1892. 101
looked at it with interest, and with some surprise saw —
Schanschiefif battery again. Now we have no wish what-
ever to prevent the Schanschiefif battery being put on the
market. It is a good and useful battery, if the price is not
considered. It might possibly be of use to some instru-
ment maker to take up this battery and make a special depart-
ment for its supply for philosophical or lecture purposes,
and 80 forth. But a company for £50,000 can only attempt
work on false pretensions. It may be worth while to
mention a few facts with reference to previous attempts
and their results. The Schanschieff battery was the object
of reports by high authorities, who accepted the statement
of cost of material from the inventor. A syndicate was
formed, and afterwards an enormous company, with a
quarter of a million capital, if we remember rightly. But
facts as to cost leaking out, this company returned the
money subscribed, and the whole thing fell through. It
has apparently now got into other hands, and attempts
made to revive the company. Do these persons know what
the cost of a unit of electricity by the Schanschiefif battery
really amounts to ? Is it 7s. 6d. a unit, and, if so, how can
they expect to get the battery taken up on any
scale to justify thousands being subscribed ? Do they know
whether the cost of Schanschiefif liquid for a few hand
lamps at the Greenwich Observatory last year came
to something like £30, while the present cost of bichro-
mate cells and accumulators only cost about one-tenth of
this for liquid ? Anyone who knows the facts could hardly
dream of using batteries causing so much expense, and we
have not yet heard that anything has been done to reduce
the cost to within even barely practicable limits. The
Central Electric had better use dynamos and send round
charged cells. There might possibly be use and profit in
that proceeding.
Board of Trade Laboratory. — Captain Cardew and
Mr. Bennie have been working; hard to get the Board of
Trade testing laboratory into complete order, so that the
legal units of electrical supply to be adopted by Govern-
ment may be determined ready for adoption at the forth-
coming parliamentary session. The aim in these new
tests has not been at all to make now determinations
of the units, but to so accurately measure correlatively
the ampere, the volt, and the ohm, by certain resistances
and balances, that real uqits for comparison can be placed
in the Board of Trade laboratory, and these can be certified
and acknowledged as the legal units for the sale of elec-
trical energy in Great Britain. For one thing, delay has
arisen because they have not yet obtained the definite
form of current-measuring apparatus from the Cambridge
Instrument Company. A specimen balance is now in the
laboratory, but does not entirely embody the needed
mechanical construction. Primarily, the units required are
first a distinct length of metal to be known as the legal
ohm. This will be obtained from makers exact to the
nearest degree possible to that of the true ohm as
now known, and three copies will also be kept
for comparison. Then careful experiments with Clark's
standard cells, and with the voltameter test, will determine
the strength of current of a legal ampere, and this again
combined with the resistance will give the legal volt. The
peculiarity of the instruments will be that the magnetism
of iron does not enter into the tests ; the attraction and
repulsion of the currents will be weighed or balanced by
actual weights, and these weights, under stipulated con-
ditions, will represent the legal units. The laboratory has
now an alternator driven by a motor supplying four to 1,000
volts alternating current, a Brush machine, specially made,
giving up to 2,000 volts continuous. A 10,000-volt Ferranti
tnasformer has been recently added, and a 50,000-volt
transformer will also shortly be in use. The only actual
work of the laboratory at present has been in testing
meters, of which may be mentioned Schallenberger's,
the Thomson-Houston, Ferranti, Teague, Frager, Desruelles
et Chauvin, and others. These are tested for the range
of their capacity, for length of run, for standing idle, for
alternations of temperature, and so forth. The laboratory
cannot fail to be one of the most important factors in
British electrical engineering. The electrical profession
may well be thankful to the energy and patience of the
gentlemen who have it in charge.
Laing, Wharton, and Down. — A paragraph has
recently ap)>eared that Messrs. Laing, Wharton, and Down
have removed from Bond-street and taken ofiSces at 38,
Parliament-street, and again a statement appears that
Messrs. Laing, Wharton, and Down have not left Bond-
street, and continue their work there. To those who know
the position these statements are perfectly clear, but as
there are probably many who do not know, we will explain
the matter a little. Messrs. Laing, Wharton, and Down —
of whom the partners are now Mr. Wharton, Mr. Down,
and Mr. Davies — ^are a private firm carrying on the
business of electrical contractors, manufacturers, and
artistic fitting suppliers at 82a, New Bond-street, and City
ofiSces at 17, Gracechurchstreei. They are open to supply
and contract for all house work, mansions, fittings, and the
G;eneral work of a high-class electrical contracting firm
Besides this, there is the Laing, Wharton, and Down
Construction Syndicate, Limited — a perfectly distinct
afifair — a limited company with the capital of
£100,000. This company has really no connec-
tion with the first, except that it is managed by the
three members of the first-mentioned firm, though we
believe Mr. Wharton is principally occupied in its manage-
ment. The Construction Syndicate undertakes large finan-
cial and company work in electric lighting; it owns the
Thomson-Houston patents, and is proprietor of the works
at Waterford, Beading, and Weybridge, besides having
sold the plant to, or helped to form, the companies at
Exeter, Bath, Taunton, and Fareham, besides the City of
London. A similar operation is being carried out at
Keading. The directorate of the Construction Syndicate
is a peculiarly strong and interesting one. The chairman
is Colonel Martindale, C.B., R.£. (retired), who takes
great interest in electric distribution problems, and is one
of the directors of the City of London Company. Next,
Mr. Percy Westmacott, who was one of the founders, with
Lord Armstrong, of Armstrong, Mitchell, and Co., at one
time managing director of that company, but now an
ordinary director, his great wealth evidently allowing his
previously busy life to be taken more easily. The third
director is Mr. Wilson Crewdson, connected to the Crewd-
son, Waterhouse, Barclay, and other banking interests, an
influential man to have on any board. The last is Dr.
Merz, of Newcastle-on-Tyne, chemical manufacturer, one of
the founders, with Mr. J. W. Swan, of the original Swan
Company, and an accomplished chemist and engineer, with
great organising powers and knowledge of business. The
Laing, Wharton, and Down Construction Syndicate, though
a private limited company, is, of course, public to the extent
of publishing its accounts in the usual way, and has paid a
5 per cent, dividend for the last three years. They also have,
besides the Thomson-Houston patents, the rights in the
Elihu Thomson high-rate alternator, which will probably
be shown at the Crystal Palace Exhibition, lighting lamps
from a single wire ; with new motors, the Van Depoele
pulsating-current rock drill, electric cranes, pumps, and
other novelties, which cannot fail to create great interest
at the Exhibition.
102
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 29, 1892.
THS DETERMINATION OP THE EPFICIENCT OF
DYNAMOS.
BY OISBBKT BAPP.
(Concluded from page S8.)
This expfflimental evidence, then, dispoaeB of the quea-
tioQ why the efficiency of a mtchine should nob be deter
mined in the manner above indicated. The answer is that
if t«Bted in this manner the efficiency comes out too high,
and if we wish to determine the efficiency accurately we
must either test two machines together, or, if only one
machine is available, we must from a previous test knoir
the rate at which the losses increase with the load.
Fig. 1 shows the arrangement for an efficiency test when
all the three machines are coupled in saries. B and G arc
the armatures of the machines to be tested, and A is that
of the machine supplying the current. The fields of the
three machines are separately excited by a machine, D,
and are indicated by the coils Fa , F^ , Fg , Fd- Ampere
meters and voltmeters would be applied to the field circuits,
Fft and F^ , to determine the exciting energy, but these in-
atruments are not shown in the diagram in order to avoid
useless complication. A rheostat, B, is inserted into the field
of dynamo B so that it may be weakened, and the current
passing through the machines B and C is read on ac
ampere-meter, a. A voltmeter, V, is also connected up, a^
shown, so that by switching it on to contact b,
we get the brush voltage of B, and by Bwitching
it on to contact e we get the brush voltage of C.
Since B and C are mechanically coupled they revolve at
the same speed, and the voltan of B is therefore lower
than that of C, the difference between the two readings
being the voltage of the machine A, which supplies the
power to keep the whole system going. The machine C
works as a motor and B works as a F^enerator. Calling
e, and e^ the respective brush volts, and C the current, we
have the following relations :
Power supplied by A '* C («« - % )
Power supplied to G — G ^
Power obtained from B = C et
We neglect here the resistance of the connecting cables,
since this can be nude as small as desired. Now the ratio
between the power obtained from B and that supplied
to G is obviously the efficiency of the two armatures con-
sidered as one system, and since the current is the same
(or can be made to be the same by taking the two volt
readings in quick succeeaioa) we find that the efficiency is
simply given by the ratio of the two voltages. The efficiency
of each armature by itself is then given by the square root
of this ratio, or
v^.
All we have therefore to do to get the efficiency is to adjust
the rheostat, R, and the power supplied to dynamo A in
such way as to obtain the normal current as indicated on
the ampere-meter, a, and the normal speed of the machines
B and C. Then by shifting the voltmeter contact several
times between 6 and c we obtain with great accuracy the
two voltages, and the square root of their ratio gives the
efficiency. It is important to observe that neither
the ampere-meter nor the voltmeter need be correctly
calibrated. As far as the ampere-meter is concerned,
all we have to do is to take care that it shall indicate
the same current during the whole time that volt readings
are taken, or that we reject those readings which happen
to have been taken while the current was difierent. The
voltmeter need not indicate true volts, but it must have
the same percentage error within the range of readings
required. Thus, if it is wrong by 5 per cent, at 100 volts,
it must also bo wrong by 5 per cent, at 90 volts and 110
volts. These limits suffice in practice, since with modern
machines an armatute efficiency of less than 90 per cent.
need hardly be expected, and between such narrow limits
even an ordinary commercial voltmeter may be relied upon
to have nearly the same percentage error. A slight differ-
ence in the percentage error of the two readings will afi'ect
the result, but not to the full extent of this dif^rence, since
the efficiency is not the voltage ratio itself, but its square
root. Say, for instanee, that the indicated voltage ratio is
•8H, but that there is a variation in the percentage error at
the lower reading of 2^ per cent Then the true ratio
would be -86. The square root of -88 is -938, and that of
-86 is -927. In estimating tbe efficiency we would then
have an error of Tl per cent., although the voltmeter was
wrong by 2'25 per cent. But even this error can be
|-#-^^@h
Fig. 2.
eliminated by making a second test, in which the rheostat
is placed in the field circuit of G, so that B becomes the
motor and C the generator, and than taking the mean
between the two determinations.
It will be seen that the method here described is
eminently suitable to give accurato results, even if our
instruments are not absolutely reliable, but in practice
there arise certain difficulties which sorely tax the skill
^nd patience of the experimenter. Tbe difierent adjust-
ments which have to be made react on each other in a most
bewildering way, and it is not always easy to see what
should be done to get the system running under normal
conditions. One difficulty the writer found was the tendency
of the armatures B and G eitbei to stop running altogether
or else start offat racing pace. This difficulty was overcome
by driving the dynamo A by an engine without a governor.
In this way the engine itself took care to deliver a nearly
constant current to the system, and the adjustment of the
rheostat did not affect the current, but only the speed and
voltage. Another difficulty is due to the fact that Uie total
amount of power required to keep the system going is
small in comparison with the work which may be stored in
the revolving mass of the armatures, so that the effect of
an adjustment at either the rheostat or any of the brushes
is not immediately seen. The cure for tbis evil is, of
uourse, to make all adjustments very gradually and not to
iiurry the test, but work patiently. Observing these and
other precautions, which it would take too long to detail.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 29, 1892.
103
it u quite possible to make a very reliable eEBciency teat,
but trie pUnt required is rather elaborate. We must have
two auxiliary dTnamoe and two steam eogiues, one without
a f;overnor, aod giving exactly the torque corresponding to
the current, and the machine driven by it must be of low
voltage and large current, all of which requirements ore
not easily fulfilleil.
In these and other respects the method of parallel
working is preferable. We require only one auxiliary
dynamo of normal volt^e, and giving a small current, and
the engine may be of any convenient size, provided it is
governed for constant speed. Fig. 2 shows the arrange-
ment for this method of testing. B and 0 are again the
two armatures mechanically coupled, F^ and Fg are their
field coils, and in the latter is inserted the rheostat, R, by
which the magnetisation of C may be sufficiently weakened
to cause this machine to work as a motor. St, and So are
switches, which for the moment we suppose to be both closed.
The voltage on both armatures is indicated on the voltmetoi,
T, and r is a rheostat chiefly used for starting, but also
available if it be desired to work the machinos to be tested
at a lower voltage than that of the supply machine, A.
This machine only i^ves the current required for excitation.
THE CBTSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
One of the exhibits that will least attract attention from
the thousands who go to see tight and colour — who go with
the intention perhaps of seeing how the light would suit
their rooms — ought to receive the greatest possible atten-
tion from electrical engineers. We refer to Stand 161, of
Ur. J. Whlt«, of Glasgow, who shows, amongst other
things, a complete set of Sir W. Thomson's standard
measuring instruments. While we agree that for practical
usein central stations such instruments would be out of place,
they are absolutely essential for all laboratory work. This
; stand was complete in time for the opening of the Exhi-
bition. It ia admitted b^ all who know aught of the subject
I that the greatest attention has been paid by Sir W. Thomson
to electrical measurement The outcome of this attention
is the magnificent set of apparatus shown. In our issue of
; August 29, 1890, p. 173, and subsequent issues in thesame
I volume, sea pages 211, 237, 281, and 332, we illustrated
I and described most of these instruments. The value, how-
I ever, of such instnimenta to the profession will be sufficient
' excuse for this further reference.
and the difference between the current absorbed by C and
given out by B. Suppose, now, everything to be properly
adjusted, and the system to be at won. If we open switcQ
Sc the auxiliary current will flow through switch Sa, and
after being joined by the current coming from B will flow
through the ampere-meter, a, and through the armature C.
By opening the switch Si, we therefore measure on the
ampere-meter the current which G abeorbe when working
as motor. Similarly, if we close Ss and open S», we measure
on the same ampere-meter the current which the generator
B is delivering, and it is important to note tiiat in both
casea the current passes through the ampere-meter in the
aame direction, so that we need not fear the disturbing
effect of residual magneUsm, if any. If during the two
readings the voltage remains the same, then the ratio of
the two currents gives the efficiency of the two armatures
considered as one system, and the square root of this ratio
gives the efficiency of each armature, or
V?-
It is again obvieus that the instrument need not indicate
true ampereB as long aa the percentage error within the
limite of the two readings is constant, and if we have a
saspioion that the percentage error is not constant we need
only put the rheostat into the field circuit of B and repeat
the test, taking the mean of the two teste. One advantage
o( ^e method shown in Fig. 2 is that by it racing of the
machines, or indeed any considerable variation of speed,
becomes impossible, so tnat our adjustments are not liable
to be disturbed by the inertia of the armatures. We need
(«ily adjust for current by shifting the contact on R until a
Uttle more than the normal current passes through 0, and
a little less than the normal currant passes through B.
If the etepc on R give too coarse an adjustment, we can
fgH the fine tdjustmiuit by moving the brushea on C.
The standard direct-reading electric balances are founded
on the mutual forces, discovered by Amp^, between
movable and fixed portions of an eleetric circuit Tht
shape chosen for tne mutually-influencing prartions is
circular, and each such port is called for brevity ai
ampere ring ; or sometimes simply a ring, whether it
consists of only one turn or of any number ol turns of
the conductor.
BUfBgtUDfl'l UaffTK
In each oE the balance instruments, except the kilo-
ampere bah ;Cb, each movable ring is actuated by two fixed
rings — all three approximately horizontal. There are two
sucn groups of three rings — two movable rings atl&ched to
the two ends of a horieontal balance arm pulled, one of
them up and the other down, by a pair of fixed rings in it«
104
THE fiLECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANCTARY 29, 1892.
Dflighbourhood. The current is in opposite directions
through the tiro movshle rings to practicalljr annul disturb-
ance due to horizontal components of terrestrial or local
magnetic forces. In the kilo ampere balance the whole
current passes through a single fixed rine and divides
through two halves uf a movable ring, which are ur^ed
one up and the other down by the resulting ampenan
force.
In all the instruments the balance arm is supported by
two trunnions, each hung by an Mastic Ugament of fine
wire, through which the current passea into and out of the
circuit of the movable rings or ring.
In all the balance instruments, in which the movable
rine is between two fixed rings, the mid-range position of
eacn movable ring is in the horizontal plane nearly midway
between the two fixed rings which act on it. The current
goes in opposite directions through the two fixed rings so
slides on an approximately horizontal graduated arm
attacbed to the baunce ; and there ia a trough fixed on the
right-hand end of the balance into which a proper counter-
poise weight is placed, according to the particular one of
the sliding weignts in use at any time. For the fine adjust-
ment of the zero a small metal flag is provided, as in an
ordinary chemical balance. This flag is actuated by a fork,
having a handle below the case outside, as shown in the
illustration. To set the zero, the left-hand weight is
placed with its pointer at the zero of the scale, and the flag
is turned to one aide or the other until it is found that,
with no current going through the rings, the balance rests
in its sighted position.
To measure a current, the weight ia slipped along the
scale until the balance rests in its sighted position. The
strength of the current is then read off approximately on
the fixed scale (called the inspectional scale), with aid of
Cnimptou ■ Fro]«tar— HUnd Ni
that the moraUe ring ia attracted by one of the fixed rings
and repelled by the other. Hie position of the movable
ring equi-distant from the two fixed rings is a poaition of
minimum force, and the sighted poaition, for the sake of
stability, is above it at one end of the beam uid below it
at the other, in each case being nearer to the repelling than
to the attracting ring by such an amount as to give about
^ per cent, more than the minimum force.
In the balance instruments to measure alternate currents
(which may be also used for direct currente) of from one
unpere to 600 amperes the main current through each
circle, whether of one turn or of more than one turn, ia
carried by a wire rope of which each component wire is
insulated by silk covering, or otherwise, from ita neighbour,
in order to prevent the inductive action from altering the
distribution of the current across Uie transverse section of
the conductor.
The balancing is performed by means of a weight which
tbe finely-divided scale for more minute accuracy,
number on the inepectiorul scale is twice the square root of
the corresponding number on the fine scale of equal divi-
sions.
The slipping of the weight into'its proper position is
performed by means of a self-releasing pendant, hanging
from a hook carried by a sliding platform, which is puUed
in the two directions by two silk threads passing through
holes to the outside of tne glass case.
Four pairs of weights (sliding and counterpoise), of which
the sledge and its counterpoise constitute the first pair, are
suppliea with each instrument These weights are adjusted
in the ratios of 1 : 4 16 : 64, so that each pair gives a round
number of amperes, or half-amperes, or quarter-amperes, or
of decimal suMivisions or multiples of these magnitudee of
current on the inapectional scale.
The useful range of each instrument ia from 1 to 100 of
the smallest current for which its sensibility suffices. The
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, J,AyUARY 29, 1893. IPS
noges of the difiiareBt typea of tfuB instrument regularly
nude are —
I. Oenti-unpere balancs ; From 1 to 100 centi-amperes.
n. Deoi-anpere „ „ 1 to 100 deci-amperea.
UL Dekiraiiipere „ „ 1 to 100 amperu
IV. Hebto«mpere „ „ 6 to 600 „
T. KiltMmpere „ „ 25 to 2,600 „
TL ComponU „ „ 02 to 600
and from 100 to 2S,000 watte (at
100 voll«^
Beeidea the balaneea, the etand contains othar instru-
menU, which will be referred to later on.
becomes too great for the position at which it ii seL In
the old form alteration in toe current at which the cut-ont
was to act could only be obtained b^ shifting the c«re of
the solenoid, and as the ends dip mto the mercury, this
ofton deteriorates the contact considerably. In the improrad
form, embodied in Bryan's patent, the current passed
round a pivoted solenoid, whose ends dip into mercury,
the solenoid being drawn back on a curved core when the
current exceeds a certain strength. The core is held
by a set screw and made adjustable, and by altera
iLg its position the strength of cnrr«nt at which
the cut-out is to act can be accurately determined.
A nnmber of these instruments, of various sues, are shown
The exhibit of MMarm Woodlioiuw and Bawaon
Vnltad is very inttteating from several points of view.
One of Kingdon's alternating dynamos, as used at Woking,
is the moat important exhibit here, and will be a source of
intereat — the oi^y other time it has been exhibited being at
Frankfort It is probable, however, that the attontian of
ordinary visitors will be most given to the ilashing of
inoandeaoent lampa above the stand. The well-known
diamond-shaped patterns, with the initials " W. & R." —
thnr trade-mark — are formed in incandescent lamps,
and will alternately be kept flashing on red and Uue, after
the method adopted with conspicuous success as a sign at
the Trocadero, in Piccadilly. Switches in icreat variety are
shown — dngle and double pole, quick-break. Amongst
the ent-outs ia a new and improved type of the Gunyiu-
hame magnetic cut-out, which we illustrate herewith.
"nua entont acts, as ia wall known, by breaking a mercury
cootaet likan the magnetic effect of the current in the coil
at the Crystal Pahue Exhibition, having ranges of 1 to 40
amperes, 30 to 100 amperes, 100 to 350 amperes, 260 to
600 amperes, 600 to 1,000 amperes, thus forming a series
of reliable current bresking instruments.
Perhaps it was injudicious to take this sketch of Messrs.
Crompton's Stand No. 1, but it will serve to show that
they are exhibiting at least two projectors. We remember
Mark Twain has a funny way of telling what certain marks
in his sketches represent. It will be necessary to do this
as regards the remarkable- looking things depicted as resting
upon the table. They do not represent flat wires, but
instruments of some kind. The fact is that when
Iilr. Bowles was making his sketch, this stand was
hardly ready, whatever may be its condition now;
and having on two separate oceasions made up bis
mind to take the sketeh, he would not be baulked
at the second attempt. There is no mistaking the
apparatus at the top of the wooden structure, which some-
106
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 29, 1892.
one hu called a " conning tower." It represents a conning
tower about as much as a broomfltick would, but tbero ie
no accounting for such mistakes. Manufacturers of
electrical apparatus are always ready with a blessing for
everything connected with projectors, for was it not the
value of projectors in naval work that in the dull, dreary
period of waiting for orders to inatal lieht and power
brought orders which kept the worka agoing 1 The per
mission for ships carrying projectora to go through the Suez
Canal by night brought orders from private firms ; the use
of projectors in warships brought orders from the Admiralty.
The use of projectors, too, meant the use of dynamos,
of engines, und, if we mistake not, had very much to do
with the general adoption of electric light on board ship.
At any rate, Messrs. Crompton, Mesara. Siemens, the
Brush Company and others, have done a lot of work in
this direction. The number of men who know the whole
history of electrical development during the last 15 years
is com^iratively small. Few of the telegraphists troubled
about tne interloper about which so great a fusa was being
wade 15 years ago, and many of the prominent names of
t(>day are of those who entered the industry after the
stir had been made. Mr. Crompton, however, was interested
in the work from the beginning. Our recollection may
not be verbally accurate, but wa imagine it will be
generally so. In the very early days of the electrical era
Mr. Crompton was managing director of the Stanton
Iron Worn, and a partner in a small manufacturing busi-
new at Chelmsford principally connected with hot-water
apparatus. Well, at one particular period some urgent
work was required for the Stanton Company, and Mr.
Crompton wanted men to continue the work night and
day. But to work at night means light, and necessity led
to the designing of his first arc tamps. They were successful,
and were made in the small works at Chelmsford. Mr.
Crompton soon saw there was money in electrical work, and,
pitching cares to the winds, he went for it in a lump. Hq
got it, urn, as anyone will see who visits the Chelmsford
and the Lillie Bridge Works of to-day and con^nres them
with the old works of Dennis and Crompton. T^ie Gramme
patents controlled the make of one type of dynamo, the
Siemens's patente controlled another type, but Mr.
Crompton managed to get a type which interfered with
none of these patents. He produced a thoroughly good
knockabout machine. Of this we can speak with some
degree of authority, as for the space of one or two years we
had such a machine running under all conceivable conditions
at our own house, and from first to last never had any trouble
with it, yet as soon as the Qramme patents lapsed that type
of armature superseded almost all others, and the Crompton-
Burgin is now ancient history. As we say, Mr. Crompton's
first experiments were in the direction of arc lighting,
30 that when the need for projectors was made clear, it is
easily understood how he would give great attention to the
matter. The outcome of this experience can be seen in the
apparatus shown at the Palace. The projectors carry self-
reguhitin^ arc lamps of 30,000 c.p. ; and that their mechanical
construction is excellent can be ascertained by examination.
Kite Chird ■■ the F»iry Queen— CruUI Piitxe Puttomlma.
Each projector has a horizontal movement and a vertical
movement The horizontal movement can be all round
the circle, but any one position can be rotaiued by a
clamping arrangement. Similarly, a large vertical range
can be obtained. The lamp can be properly focussed by
means of a screw ; all the parts are simple — the gear
strong and well made and of the best material. One
of the projectors shown will be supplied with current from
a battery of Crompton-Howell secondary batteries to be
seen in the Machine Department. It seems almost a pity
that some enterprising exhibitor did not think of putting
a couple of projectors on the top of the Crystal Palace
towers. It might have been a somewhat costly exhibit,
but it certainly would have been an effective one. A novel
departure at Stand No. 1 is that electrical measurements
are to be taken, so that he who runs may read. It is to he
hoped that one of those charming parrots at the end of the
North Nave, or some equally eloquent speaker, will be
pressed to explain simply to the audiences what is being
done and why it is being done — but of this by-and-by.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANPARY 29, 189^. 107
It Ib not our province to discuia the merits or demerits of
the Crystal Palaoe Pantomime. We have, however,
to confess to a weakneai for spectacular displsya and tales
from tlie Arabian Nights. We have usually found, too,
that many of thoae who talk loudly about the degeneracy
of paatomime manage eoou after Boxing Night to
familiarise themselves with the various pantomimes
^oJDg. But the elder folk have no business to pass
judgment upon this class of entertainment ; it is
sufficient if the younger generation are delighted. The
first object of every caterer for public amusement is to
make it pay, and whenever the amusement is of a healthy
and innocent character it is the duty of the scribblers of
the Press to assist in this end, for " All work and no play
makes Jack a dull boy."
From year to year the Crystal Palace authorities produce
a pantomime. This year Mr. Horace Lennard and Mr.
Oscar Barrett have revived our old friend, " The Forty
Thieves." As is usual, Mr. Barrett has called to his aid
the moflt popular ditties of the day, and they most unmis-
takably give life and go to the performance. Of course
the greatest attention has been paid to the spectacular part
of the business, and gorgeous dresses, the sheen of polished
metal, the flashing of colour from cut and tinted glass,
with appropriate scenery, welds together an entertainment
which for brightness, light, and colour has never been
eurpassed on these boards. We believe Mr. Barrett, j'un.,
S. Wilklnion H CoaU-CryaUl Pilmce rsiitomlme,
has painted the scenes. To this gentleman, too, we are
indebted for many courtesies and much information.
Electricity has been called in to play a moderate part in
the spectacle. It was originally intended to use it to a
much greater degree. Of the pantomime itself, we may
eum it up in four lines from Calderon, as consisting of :
In a word, delicioua joys,
Raptures, ravishments, entrancenieDte,
Pleuurea, bllraes, fondest favours.
Sports and plays, and songs and daDCea.
These harmoniously intermingled, the eye and the ear
enchanted, with the genuine flavour of clown and pantaloon
thrown in, give some four hours of absorbing delight to the
youngstera, and they view a scene
Which comes . . . with soogs and music,
And a syren train to chum them.
But to WIT more prosaic task. How is the electric light
used 1 Imagine the scene, which, of course, must include
the beautiful Fairy Queen (Kate Chard), the Demon King
(Deane Brand), and their attendants. In the "Forty Thieves '
Ct^ia (S. Wilkinson) must be represented. Then we have
the procession, and the ballet, and the transformation
scene. The Fairy Queen, whose wand is more powerful for
good than the demon's machinations are for eril, carries a
brilliant lamp above her forehead, the current for which ii
obtained from a small secondary battery. Similarly the
Demon King is provided with a lamp, while Cogia has
three — one on the crown and two at the termination of
long ringlets. In these cases the battery and connections
are hidden within the folds of the dresses of the artietas.
Two groups of attendants in the procession carry spears
with decorative coloured atreamera, and from just below
the spear head appears a twinkling point of fire, as if
the spear had a diamond setting. The effect is very good.
The batteries supplying current to the spear head lights are
carried in asmall metal pocket on thespearehaft, hidden by Hie
streamers. The secondary batteries have been supplied and
i~CryiUI rkluM Futodilms.
are maintained by the Mining and General Electric Lamp
Company, whose stand we illustrated in our issue of Jan.
15th, p. 55. The current for charging the batteries is obtained
from the Sydenham central station, just erected for the
Electric Installation and Maintenance Company, by Messrs.
J. £. H. Gordon and Co. In the transformation scene a
number of camels are depicted, each carrying a lady, above
whose bead is a corona of incandescent lamps. These lampa
are fed by means of flexible connections, easily connected to
appropriate terminals in the stage fioor and on the camels.
The effect obtained is brilliant, and the audience see —
Those who wear the rainbow's drasa.
Who within the car triumphal
Abova the busy throng are seaMd
'Neath a canopy, wherein
Purple, pearl, aid gold are blended.
Again the prosaic. The stage connections and fittings
have been, we believe, done by Messrs. Bashlaigh Phipps
and Dawson, the current being from the ordiuary Palace
supply, by the Oulcher Company,
108 THE ELECTRICAL ENGtNISfiR, JANUARY 20, 189^.
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Electro-Harmonic Society. . . 1 16
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CORRECTION.
Rotary-Gmrent Plant. — Oumg to the inaccurate know-
ledge of our eorre^[Kmdent, the statements given in our
note last week relating to the above apparatus in this
country were incorrect. Mr. Henry Edmunds is the
only rqfresentative of the Drehstrom interests here, and
we regrd the error of having connected the names of other
gentlemen herewith.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION AND LOCAL
AUTHORITIES.
It may be sapposed that as this Exhibition
approaches completion many of the exhibitors are
thinking over the best way to make it pay. The
various exhibits are of diverse character, and
pm:chasers of one class of goods are only indirectly
pm:chasers of another class. Thus, the wealthy
owner of a comitry house may be directly interested
both in generating plant, and in fittings, but the
resident of a London mansion has little concern
with the generating plant ; his examination begins
and ends with the fittings. Others there are who,
passing by the fittings,' care only for the generating
plant. It must not be expected, however, that a great
amount of business will be the direct outcome of the
Exhibition : in most cases the ground will be merely
laid for future approach and negotiation. It is well
known that a number of local authorities have
already made arrangements for the supply of elec-
trical energy, either by erecting their own stations
or backing up private companies. Many more
authorities are considering the question, and it is
absolutely certain most of the remainder will join
the rolling ball of progress. The great manuEeus-
turing companies exhibiting at the Palace are more
concerned with what the local authorities do and
think than with any other class of visitor. Each, no
doubt, would prefer to see all the local authorities
one after the other coming to their private
place of business or fiEK^tory, and being there con-
vinced that that firm or company was really the
very best to carry out proposed work. That is a
natural want — ^hesids of firms and managers of com-
panies may want, but cannot always obtain. The
probability is that many of the local authorities will
organise deputations to investigate the lighting
apparatus at the Palace, and when no such deputa-
tion is sent to represent the authority, the engineer
of the authority will be instructed to report thereon.
If this should be the case, the exhibitors at the
Palace ought to take care to be well represented. The
ordinary stand representative is not what is reijuired,
but men of the world, men of business tact and
ability, not eloquent scientific talkers. While the
members of the deputations may not be conversant
with matters electrical, and wUl certainly want to
know more about interference with streets. Board of
Trade requirements, obtaining of money, repayments
of loans, mechanical construction and strength, they
will, of course, require to know generally about
dynamo, motor, and lamp efficiencies. They will
also be interested to learn as much as possible about
the ** meters " proposed to be used to record the
amount of electric energy oonsomed. There need be
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY ^, 1862. lOd
no labottkred explanation, but it would be advisable
for the larger exhibitors to have meters at work, and
be ready to] explain their action. Depend upon it,
there is instilled into men's minds a liking to return
a compliment^ and a clear explanation of appa-
ratus to visitors will enable them to enlighten their
colleagues and others upon points not usually well
understood — will most likely bring them back to
obtain further information when the progress of the
work demands it. We have gone again and again
to half-a-dozen exhibits to find no one at hand to
explain anything, and no doubt visitors have done
so likewise. The visit of formal deputations may
usually be known beforehand, and it will no doubt
be easy to arrange for these field days, but, at the
same time, the unknown and the casual visitor ought
not to be neglected.
THE PALL MALL COMPANY.
A long, but not altogether harmonious, meeting of
this company was held on Tuesday last, and is fully
reported in our present issue. The report is so full
of pleasant, or unpleasant, surprises that it will prove
interesting reading. There is, however, only one
point to which we would now draw attention —
founders' shares. This class of share is, in the
majority of cases, merely a means to an end. The
end is the delusion of shareholders. One of the
directors of the Pall Mall Company failed to
secure re-election at the meeting, and his co-
directors demanded a poll, which takes place
next week. The reason assigned for opposing
such election was dabbling in founders' shares
on the Stock Exchange, and a peculiarly rapid
depreciation of the quotation for such securities.
A dozen or so very pertinent questions were asked
at the meeting, but in the end the report of the
directors was adopted, so that whatever they may
be thought to have done amiss is thus condoned.
We suppose it must be granted that a man can sell
his shares when and how he pleases, so that no
reason exists for not selling founders' shares. We
do not object to the selling — we object to their
existence.
PROF. G. FORBES, F.R.S., ON DISTRIBUTION.
From year to year we have to acknowledge
indebtedness to the Society of Arts for arranging
at least one series of Cantor lectures upon electrical
subjects. It will be remembered that last year
Mr. G. Eapp gave an excellent series of lectures
upon the transmission of power. The course of
lectures commenced last Monday by Prof. G.
Forbes, F.B.S., under the auspices of the society,
is on electrical distribution— one of the most
important subjects for the consideration of
electrical engineers^ and one to which Prof.
Forbes has paid great attention. Eight years
ago he gave a series of Cantor lectures upon
the same subject, hence the comparisons he is
able to make during the present course cannot but
be valuable. It is well known that the society
publishes these lectures in its Journal^ and it has
always been our custom to await this official publi-
cation before giving the lectures in our columns,
because the lecturers, as a rule, merely indicate certain
portions of their subject, giving the complete figures,
details, and illustrations in the printed text. Of
necessity, the first lecture in the present course was
general rather than particular. The lecturer called
attention to his work of eight years ago, and pointed
out that then the tendency of practical men was
wholly in favour of direct low-pressure systems.
Since then, however, great advances have been made
in alternate-current high-pressure systems, and,
above all, in that useful accessory to central station
work — the secondary battery. Eight years ago
distribution rested with direct, multiple, and
multiple series work. Now we have developed the
three-wire and even the w-wire system. Prof.
Forbes described at considerable length the system
of distribution which required multi-feeding points,
and gave some statistics as to the proportion between
weight of feeders and weight of distributors in
special installations, also the cost per yard run of
several typical installations — such as the Kensington
and Enigbtsbridge, the Berlin, and CUchy secteur in
Paris. One point brought out by the lecturer during
the course of the evening appeals to financiers.
Many himdreds of tons of copper are used in mains,
and it is by no means difficult to obtain advances of
money upon the security of this copper.
OORRESPONDENOE.
(I
One niMi'i word It no nuui'i word,
Joitloe needi that both be heard.
\,
MAINS IN BATH.
Sir, — Mv attention has been called to a notice in your
paper in which it Is stated that the interruption of the light
to certain lamps in Bath was due to contraction and expan-
sion in the joints of the main.
No such thing has ever happened. Certain lamps have
been extinguished for a short time on two occasions
lately, but in each case the fault has been caused bv
bad workmanship on the part of the Bath Company s
men, who have recently carried out alterations to Uie
lamps.
There has been no contraction or expansion on the mains
at their joints or elsewhere, and the Bath Company have
had no trouble whatever arising from them.
As I have been called in to repair the defective wiring
in the lampposts, I can speak on this subject with absolute
knowledge of the facts. — ^Yours, etc.,
T. 0. Callkndbr, Manager.
Callender's Company, 101, Leadenhall-street, KC,
January 26th, 1892.
ELECTROLYTIC LAW. OF LEAST ENERGY.
Sir, — In a paper kj Mr. G. C. V. Holmes, pass 92, on
the " Modern Anplications of Electricity to MetaUurgv," I
note this remarlk, that metal will be first deposited trom
the solution which " requires the least amount of energy.
This law was first stated by Dr. Kiliani, of Munich, etc., m
the year 1885. The subject-matter of Uus law is a very
lai^e one."
I am not unused to seeing ideas which I have spread broad-
cast attributed to others, but this, as the French say, is
un peu trap fort. The law, " Dr. Kiliani's law," is of my
own formulation, and may be seen referred to at times as
'" Sprague's law."
i cannot say at what time it was conceived in my mind,
110 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 29, i8i9^
nor does it much matter ; bat in vol. xz.^ p. 2, of that
paper of world-wide circulation, the English Mechanic,
m September, 1874, it was first published in these words :
" Let us substitute for the idea of secondary chemical action,
this new definition of the action at the electrodes which will
embrace all the facts. Ai the electrodes those ions are set free
which absorb, in hecoming fru, specific energy."
Under the head of " General Law of Electrolysis," that
statement has appeared in two editions, each 2,000 copies,
of my " Electricity ; its Theory, Sources, and Applica-
tions, both published before the date of Dr. Kiliani's paper,
and in both I point out the resemblance of this law to the
effects of destructive distillation. I may add that my
definition was published years before even Berthelot formu-
lated his chemical law of '' maximum work," and in my
second edition I said : " It is evident that M. Berthelot s
law of " maximum work " is the converse of the general
law of electrolysis which I have formulated." — ^Yours, etc.,
John T. Spragub.
MEDICAL ELECTRICITY.
Sir, — My attention has been called to the note on this
subject in your issue of the 22nd inst., in which you
observe that Mr. H. Newman Lawrence is attempting to
apply electricity scientifically to the relief of paralysis.
May I be permitted to state that Mr. Grigg, the world-
famed medical electrician of Eastbourne-terrace — who has
been in practice for nearly 50 years — many years ago
invented and patented an electromagnetic machine which
gives a beautiful and steady current without any shocks.
By its aid he has been able to cure not only paralysis, but
also diabetes, Bright's disease, typhoid fever, and all the
worst cases of disease which ha^ teiffled the skill of the
most eminent medical men.
Mr. Heriord, the coroner for Manchester, in his letter to
you of 24th August, 1888, says : " I could say much of my
well-known (almost perfect) cure from complete prostration
by paralysis, and of cures similarly effected from varied
ailments amongst my friends. You will, perhaps, permit
me to mention, from my own knowledge, what seems
almost a miraculous case of a gentleman suffering three or
four years ago from chronic rheumatic gout, progressive
paralysis, enervation, etc. He was entirely helpless —
hands and fingers drawn out of shape, legs and feet power-
less. His physicians said his case was utterly hopeless ;
but his friends applied to Mr. Grigg, by whom he was
treated twice a day for nine months, and recovered perfect
use of his limbs and powers. He was married soon after,
and has now a son and heir."
Mr. Thomas Helsby, an eminent writer, who has a
practical knowledge of, and has written on, the subject,
observes that *' Mr. Grigg's patented machines are the best
yet invented for medical purposes, and that he is the only
man living who knows the proper and scientific mode of
application for the cure of all diseases.''
Mr. Grigg ridicules the idea of attempting to apply
electricity successfully to the relief of paralysis in the way
indicated in your note, and says, according to his experi-
ence, that either drugs or stimulants in any shape or form
retard (in place of facilitate) the cure of diseases. — Yours,
etc., David Bodan.
13, Upper Montague-street, W.,
Jan. 27, 1892.
STEAM ENGINE ECONOMY.
Sir, — In reply to Messrs. Parsons's letter in your last
week's issue, we are sorry to think that the figures upon
which Mr. Willans based his remarks and his diagrams
in the discussion on Mr. Crompton's paper should have been
thought to be in any sense record figures. So far from this
being the case, they were obtained from an engine which
had not run very many hours. The rings had not, there-
fore, had time to come up to a face, and the engine was
certainly not in a state to give the best possible results. It
was a triple engine made for non-oondensine work also, as
all our engines have been up to now, and the best results
could not be obtained from it when working condensing ;
moreover, in plotting the diagrams illustrating Mr. Willans's
/F HP \
remarks, an efficiency ( T^'p) of 80 per cent only was
vI.H.P. /
taken, as he stated at the time. This is less than we often
reach with new engines, and is certainly less than is
usually reached after a few weeks' work with direct-current
dynamos, working under the conditions which are present
in electric lighting stations in this country.
At the low loads it was assumed thiftt there were no
reducing losses, which, even with the best dynamos, is not,
strictly speaking, the case. The mean admission pressure
in the cylinder at the highest observation taken in the con-
densing trial curve was 1321b. We have not a note of the
pressure in the steam-chest, but it would be probably some
51b. or 61b. higher. The figures were used for the purpose
of illustrating Mr. Willans's straight-line diagram, and in
order to show (as was stated in his remarks) the gain which
could be obtained, especially at light loads, even in the
case of the very best possible non-condensing engine, by
the use of a condenser. They were not intended in the
case of the condensing trials to show by any means the best
result obtainable. An engine which is to be used both
condensing and non-condensing is at best a compromise.
The steam used in the trials was not tested at the time,
but it probablv contained 1 per cent, of moisture at t^e
high loads, and was almost certainly dry, or even slightly
superheated, at the lightest loads on account of throttling.
The steam was taken through a separator in the ordinary
way, but our trial boiler gives steam with about 2 per cent,
of moisture in it, and this is not entirely removed by the
separator so far as we have been able to ascertain.
Prof. Ewing did not give in his leport the source from
which he obtained the figures quoted. The figure 18 '61b.
has been several times almost exactly obtained by us, and
we did not know, until he mentioned the matter to Mr.
Willans, that he was quoting from the Proceedings of the
Institution of Civil Engineers. We should not have named
that figure as an exceptionally good one, as we expect to
do better.
In conclusion, we must heartily congratulate Messrs.
Parsons on the results that they have obtained ; we should
not have written to the papers at all if these results had
not been compared with our own.
Although we are quite sure that neither Messrs, Parsons
nor Prof. Ewing had the least intention of saying anything
which was not perfectly fair to us, there are many people
who might make use of their report in a different manner
if we had not written as we did.
The method, we believe, adopted by Messrs. Parsons of
varying the power of the engine by admitting steam inter-
mittently is a most interesting one, and, so far as we know,
it is the first time that it has been applied to a steam
engine. Undoubtedly, this method of reducing the power
should tend in the direction of economy. — Yours, etc.,
Willans and Robinson, Limited,
(C. S. Essex, Secretary),
Thames Ditton, Jan. 26, 1892.
PAESONS STEAM TURBINE.
The following letter from Principal Garnett, of the
Durham College of Science, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, dated
25th January, 1892, addressed to Prof. Ewing, F.R.S., of
Cambridge, has been forwarded to us for publication :
'*My dear Ewing, — My attention has been called to
some questions which have been raised respecting the
effect of retardation of currents phase upon the output of
the steam turbine, which you tested in Newcastle a few
weeks ago. To determine the magnitude of the error thus
caused, two sets of experiments were made, the former by
Mr. Parsons and Mr. Stoney, the latter by Mr. Stoney and
myself. In these experiments the coils used by you were
compared with the water in a section of the cooling pond.
The 1,000-volt armature was used, and iron pipes were
thrust into the cooling pond to serve as electrodes, so that
in comparison with the 1,000 volts the E.M.F. due to elec-
trolysis was quite neglidble, as was also any change of
phase which it could produce.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JASUARY 29, 1892. lir
" Id order to Mcare tlie same number of tnie iratts m
the output of the alternator, the valve which gives the
intflrmittent ateam admiuion wai blocked open and the
•team was throttled by hand. In the second set of experi-
ments the steam pressure at the point of admission to the
cylinder was kept constant at 621b., and the resistanca vas
■0 arranged as to keep the volte the lame with the coils
as with the water resistance. A variation of pressure of
lib. corresponds to about IJ units per hour in the output.
The volts being the same, and the resistance of the
armature practically negligible, il follows that the speed
must have been the same, and the speed and steam pressure
being Uie same, its steam consumption, and therefore the
output, must have been the same, unless the steam had the
intelligence to know what was going on in the external
dreuit and the perversity to modify its conduct for the
purpose of leading us astray. The result of this test was
that with the same speed and the same steam pressure the
product of Siemens and Cardew gave 49'6 for the water
and 52 for the iron, showing an error of 5 per cent, due to
the Isf; in the iron.
"In the other sat of experiments the volts were kept the
aame, but the steam pressure as well as the amperes were
allowed to vary, two sets of observations being mmle upon
the coils, one with a greater and the other with a less
output than in the case of the water. Repeated observhticns
of the relation between the steam pressure and the load
have enabled the law of variation of the one with the other
to be accurately known, and it was therefore easy to inter'
polate between the two observations with the coils and to
determine the apparent watte which would have been
Festered with the coils at the pressure used in the water
experiment. The result of this interpolation showed that
the product of Siemens and Cardew was 47 per cent,
greater than the tnie watts.
" I hope that before long it will be possible to make a
teat of the turbine at the full working pressure of 1401b.,
and with a boiler of sufficient capacity to give fairly dry
steam at full load. It was scarcely fair to the turbine to
remove it« high-pressure rings. — Very sincerely your^,
" (Signed) Wm. Garnbtt.
" To Prof. J. A. Ewing, M.A., F.R.S., etc."
MR. TESLA AND ROTARY CURRENTS.
Hr. Nikola Teala is now in London, and electrical
engineers will he pleased to learn is busy preparing his
paper and his apparatus for the promised lecture to the
Institution of Electrical Engineers upon alternating
currents. This will appropriately take place at the Royal
Institution, Albemarle-etreet, on Wednesday next, by the
kind permission of the governors of the celebrated institu-
tion which the world-famous experiments of Faraday have
rendered such classic ground to all scientific men. The
occasion cannot but mark an important era in both
theoretical and practical science, for the continuous atten-
tion, the experimental skill, and the keen insight of Mr.
Tasla into the hitherto little explored ground of rapidly-
alternating currents of high potential, with the astonish-
ing results in demonstrating the possibility of lighting incan-
descent lamps without wires, have raised the ex[iectationa of
scientific men to a high pitch. Mr. Teela may well feel a
little nervousness in coming before the scientific world in
the capacity of apostle of a new and unexplored field,
arising out of those opened up by Faraday s immortal
experiments themselves ; but the extreme boautv of the
research, the importance, and apparently unlimited scope of
the new experiments fitly carry forward the applications of
electrical science whose basis was laid so thoroughly by
Faraday in 1831.
For the moment, however, we will leave the fascinating
question of high -potential electric illumination, and turn to
that field in whicn Mr. Teela has done, if possible, even more
important work — that of the rotary currant. The question
of rotary current has taken a very different position in the
eyes of English electrical engineers during the past year,
due, to a very oonaiderable extent, to the experiment on
such a large scale at the recent Frankfort Exhilution,
where the transmission of several hundred horaa-power
over a distance of 110 miles very forcibly brought the
attention of the whole world to the importance of the
rotary current. Before this time the knowledge upon the
question was exceedingly vague, and, curiously enough, a
long battle has raged around the very discovery of the
rotary magnetic field and the rotary-current motor at a time
when, in reality, there seems to have been not even a sha<low
of a doubt that the credit of the discovery and practical appli-
cation of the system belonged to Mr. Tesla, who years ago
had both patented and shown in workiuK actual motors of
the descriptions ajnce shown in various other parts of the
world.
The return of Mr. TssLi to Europe, together with the
fuller details of his work, which will now ia before us, will
serve to creato an entire rovolutiun in the minds of a great
many of those who are at present occupied, tentatively or
practically, with this absorbingly interesting problem, and
will put the whole question upon its proper basis. Until
the publication in our columns a few months ago
(September llth, 1891, p. 246) of deUils and dates which
were authoritatively given in America upon Mr. TeaU's
experimenta, the European electrical world was in doubt
upon the whole question, or more probably gave the credit
of the first discovery to Prof. Ferraris — whose work in thia
field certainly deserves the highest recognition — and the
credit of the construction of the rotary -current motor, either
singly or conjointly, to Herr Dobrowolsky, Herr Haset-
wander, or others.
It may be well to recall the dates given in the article
above-mentioned. Prof, Ferraria's paper was given in
March, 1888, and published shortlv aftfrwards. Five
months before thia Mr. Tesla had filed his patents, and
motors were run experimentally. On May 1, 1888, the
patents were issued, and in the aame month these motors
wera shown befon the American Institute of Electrical
Engineers, while it was not till May 18th that the work of
Prof- Ferraris was published in England. Aa meotioned
in our article on July 31st, 1891, it appears that Hasel-
wander's rotary-current dynamo was constructed in the
summer of 1889, and first set to work on 12th October
of the same year; on July, 21, 1888, Haselwander applied
for his Oerman patents, which wera accepted in 1890, and
issued in June, 1890. Prof. Ferraria's experiments wera
undertaken in 1885, but Mr. Tesla claims to have been
earlier afield. It seems, however, perfectly clear that men
in widely separate localities were working independently,
though contemporaneously, in the same direction and for
similar objects.
On hearing that Mr. Tesla had arrived in London, we
thought it welt to take an early opportunity of calling upon
faim to obtain from him some particulars of the pn^reos
of the application of the rotary current in America, and to
hear his views upon the question.
In the first place, it is interesting to learn that Mr.
Teala's discovery was due originallv, not to direct experi-
ment, but to ahatract reasoning and mathematical calcula-
tion. A native of Montenegro, Mr. Taaki later came to
PariS) and in the couru of his lectures »nd atudjr
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 29, 1892
was more particularly interested in the fascinating study of
mathematical maxima and minima. Watching the action
of the reversed dynamo running as a motor wiUi segmented
commutator, he suggested the desirability and the possi-
bility of constructing a motor without commutator, which
suggestion was scouted at the time. The march of his iileas,
however, may be gauged from the mention of the maxima
and minima theorem. Granted a rising and falling of
E.M.F. in the commutator of a dynamo due to revolving
position of the coils as now run, it was easy to jump to the
conclusion that if waxing and waning currents could be sent
into the coils in propw order, rotation should be at once
obtained. Mr. Tesla is one of those gifted men who have
that remarkable property, present in iQl men of high talent
or genius, of an extraordinarily strong imaginative or concep-
tive faculty, by which material combinations are represented
in the mind before they are constructed either on paper
or in material substances. • His motor was constructed
and the results deliberately worked out in his mind
before ever experiments were made ; and he knew abso-
lutely boUi that his motor would run, and which way it
would run upon joining up the wires, and the result
accrued exactly as expected. Unable to obtain sufficient
•^— ^^— ^^«
Fiif.l
z_\
•^— ^^— ^^«
Fig 3
support in Europe, Mr. Tesla went to America, and there
constructed and patented his motors. He constructed
motors with the simple two-phase mentioned by Ferraris,
in which the armature is wound at right angles, as indi-
cated in Fig. 1. He constructed the three-phase motor
since rendered famous as "Drehstrom" in Oermany, in which
the coils are distributed at an angle of ISOdeg. round the
armature, as indicated in Fig. 2. He, further, long and
exhaustively experimented with multiphase currents, both
with split coils and with numerous separate currents,
up to a dozen or more currents. The split multiphase
current indicated in Fig. 3 is a simple modification of
^g* ^1 ^y morely winding the three coils each in two coils
disposed at a little distance from each other, thus pro-
ducing a multiphase field ; and he arrived conclusively at
Uiis result, that for practical purposes there is little to be
gained in efficiency m>m the use of greatly-divided fields —
not more, he finds, than of the nature of | per cent gain.
Motors were constructed, tested, and shown at the dates
already mentioned, with efficiencies of over 90 per cent,
and of great capacity for the weight — for instance, a
10-h.p. motor of 90 per cent efficiency weighing only
8501b., half the weight of any of the same power since con-
structed in Europe. Besulta so prombing, not to say revo-
lutionary, could not but receive support, but his financial
IMirtners advised against publication of the full details and
results, or European engineers would have long been in pos-
session of the facts of the case Mr Tesla's inventions, aiter
being broadly protected in America, England, and (Germany,
amongst other countries, were taken up by Mr. Westing-
house, who proposed at once to put down large works
capable of turning out 1,000 motors a week. Unfortunately,
just at this moment occurred the financial panic which, it
will be remembered, was suffered by the Westinghouse comj
panics, and the matter had to be left However, this has
now been got over, and the motors are being made,
and applied as fast as made. Mr. Tesla informs us — a
fact that will astonish European electrical engineers con-
siderably— ^that before he left he had seen running a
1,000 h.p. Tesla alternate-current motor, one of a number
now being constructed at the Westinghouse Works in
IMttsburgh for transmission of power. These are motors
with revolving armature and three collector rings. Large
numbers of the smaller motors have been in application
for some time principally for mining purposes at high
efficiencies and without needing repair. These motors
start under load with strong torque : as an illustration, one
experiment, with a small motor, was tried with a fixed rope
over a 12in. pulley on the axle of the motor — the rope
being previously tested to withstand 1,0001b. pull. Un
starting from rest the rope snapped immediately — a tangible
demonstration of the strength of torque. Mr. Tesla states
that his system of winding the alternate-current motors has
now been brought to such a state of perfection, that for a
three-wire circuit he can guarantee to build motors of large
size to give 1 h.p. for every 201b. of weight of an efficiency
of 97^ per cent What result better than this could be
desir^ it is certainly difficult to imagine. It is
evident, as we have said, that Mr. Tesla's appearance upon
the scene will change the attitude of scientific men and
engineers very considerably, both as regards the utilisation
of rotary-current motors and as to the credit which should
be given to this most interesting discovery.
INSTITUTION OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS'
INAUGURAL ADDRESS OF PROF. W. E. AYRTON, F.R.S.^
PRESIDENT, ON ELECTROTECHNICS.
I beg to thank you for the great honour you have done me in
electing me yoar president for this year — ^a year which the need
for a new complete index of this Society's Journal marks oat as
closing the second decade of its life ; a year which sees the second
thousand added to our roll of members ; and a year which the Elec-
trical Exhibition at the Crystal Palace distinguishes as inaugu-
rating the second decade of electric lighting in Great Britain.
It has gradually become the custom for your incoming president
to select as the subject of his address some investigation that has
been engaging his attention. Following this custom, I purpose
to-night to discuss an experiment in which for the last 19 years I
have taken some part— an experiment which of all others has been
the one I have haa most at heart— and that is, how best to train
the young electrical engineer. To some it mav appear that I am
treading on well-worn ground ; but as the problem is one that is
as yet bv no means solved, and as it involves the preparation of
the machine that is daily used alike by the dynamo oonstructor,
the cable manufacturer, the central station engineer, and the
lamp maker— viz., the human machine— the problem of
fashioning this tool, so that it may possess sharpness, an even
temper, moral strength, and a mental grain capable of
taking a high polish, is one that in truth deeply concerns
every member, every associate, every student of this society. It is
only 15 years ago sinoe I wrote from Japan to mv old ana valued
master Dr. Hirst, then the principal of the Royal Naval College,
Greenwich, asking whether he thought that the time had oome for
starting in this country a course of applied physics somewhat on
the lines of that given at the Imperial College of Engineering in
Japan. He repued that* England was not yet ripe for such an
innovation — an opinion which appeared to be borne out by the fact
that after the authorities at University College, London, had in
1878 actually advertised for applications for a new chair of
" Technology," they decided that it would be premature to take the
responsibility of creating such a professorship. But matters were
advancing more rapidly than was imagined by coUegii^ bodies,
for in tiiat same vear this most valuable report on technical educa-
tion which I hold in my hand was issued by a committee of the
Liv^ Companies of London, based on the opinions expressed by
Sir W. (now Lord) Armstrong, Mr. G. C. T. i^rtley, Colonel (now
General) Donelly, Captain (now Sir Douglas) Gal ton. Prof. Huxley,
* Deliver^ on Thursday evening, January 28th,
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 29, 1892. 113
and Mr. (now Sir H. Traeman) Wood. And although it is 12
years since this book was published, I can recommend it to year
notice, for it snpp lea most interesting reading even at the present
day.
Under the guidance of the three joint honorary secretaries, Mr.
John Watney, Mr. Sawyer, and Mr. (now Sir Owen) Roberts, the
City and Guilds of London Institute for the Advancement of
Tedinical Education started with a name that was very long, but
in a way that was very modest, to develop a " trades school " in
aooordanoe with this report. They borrowed some rooms, but for
use in the evening onlv, from the Middle-Class Schools in Cowper-
street, Finsbury, ana decided to erect ultimately a chemical
laboratory in that neighbourhood. But neither the building
of a physical nor even of a mechanical laboratory formed
any part of the scheme for this "local trades school." For
at that time the teaching of the practical applications of
physics to industry hardfy existed, and certainly not its
application to any electrical industry other than telegraphv. To
make a start, however, in such teaching was most desirable, and
tber^ore Dr. Wormell, the enlightened head master of the
C>>wper-street Schools, consented to give up the use of some rooms
not merely during the evening, but sJso during the day, to enable
Dr. Armstrong and myself to carry out our plan of fitting up
students' laboratories with a small amount of apparatus kept
permanently ready in position. For the devotion of these rooms
to the carrying out of this new experiment we must always
feel grateful to Dr. Wormell, for it was necessarily accompanied
by a reduction in the size of his school, and consequently by a
pecuniary loss to himself. The first laboratory course of the
City and Guilds Institute was then advertised, and on January 9,
1880, three students presented themselves — a little boy, a grey-
haired lame man, and a middle-a^^ed workman with emphatic but
hazy notions about the electric fluid.
In order to further utilise these rooms the institute sanctioned
laboratory teaching during the day, and one of the cellars of the
Cowper-street Schools was borrowed in 1880 in order to fit up a
gms engnne, coned shafting, and a transmission dynamometer,
obtainM out of the funds of the institute ; an A Gramme dynamo,
lent by Mr. Sennett, then one of the students ; and two arc-light
dynamos for transmission of power experiments, lent by the
Anglo- American Brush Corporation, whose cordial interest m the
wonc of the City and Guilds Institute has been marked throushout.
And as these dynamos were used, not for electric lighting, out as
laboratory instruments for educational purposes, England can
claim to have been one of the first in the field of teaching electro-
technics. Rapidly grew these electro-technical classes ; soon the
temporary laooratories in Cowper-street were overcrowded,
especially as applied mathematics and mechanics, under Prof.
Perry, were added to the subjects taught ; the £3,000 which had
been set aside for the building of this "local trades school"
grew into £35,000, thanks to the combined donations of the
Drapers' Company and of the institute, and in 1881 was laid the
foundation-stone of the present Finsbury College. During the
many years that Prof. Perry and I were linked together, the work
of either was the work of both ; but now I wish to take this
opportunitv of acknowledging my personal debt of gratitude for
the fund of suggestion which he put forth regarding the teaching
of soienoe throueh its practical applications — the keynote of true
technical education. The value of these suggestions you will fully
appreciate, for they form the basis of those characteristic and
attractive lectures familiar to so many of you who have been his
pupils.
As we have seen, then, the present Finsbury Ck>llege grew out
of the "local trades school," and formed no part of the original
scheme of the institute. And it was because London was really
in want of practical laboratory teaching about dynamos, motors,
electric lamps, and engines, and because that want was supplied
in a form suitable to the comprehension and to the pockets of
workmen in the basement and cellars of the Cowper-street
Schools, and last, but by no means least, because one of the
executive committee of the institute, Mr. Robins, strenuously
exerted himself to further technical education in Finsbury,
that the various electrical, physical, and mechanical lat>ora-
tories now in Leonard-street, Finsbury, came into existence.
But the establishment of a central technical institution " for
training technical teachers, and providing instruction for
advanced students in applied art and science," had been
recommended in all the reports sent in to the committee of the
livery Companies by the six authorities to whom I have referred.
So that in the same year that the foundation-stone of the Finsbury
College was laid by the late Duke of Albany that of the Central
Technical Institution was laid by the Prince of Wales. And, if
yon will allow me to say so, the success of the latter institution
nas been no less marked than that of the former, for, in spite of
the rather stiff entrance examination, the number of students who
attend all four of the departments at the Central Institution is
more tlum threefold what it was five years ago. In fact, in the
mechanical and electrical engineering departments there are
already about as many students undez instruction as classroom
and laboratory accommodation will admit. Hence this year will
see a considerable increase in the amount of apparatus and
machinery, as well as in the space devoted to dynamos and motors,
in Exhibition-road.
While, on the one hand, the rapid growth of the work of the
Guilds Institute is no little due to tne fact that the latter end of
fcbia century has ushered in the electric age of the world ; the
electrical industry of our country, on the other hand, is no little
indebted to the aid so generously given by our City companies to
the teadiing of electroteohnioe. For the students who during
the Ust 11 years have, for an almost nominal fee* worked in
the electrical laboratories at Cowper-street, at the Finsbury
Collide, and at the CTentral Institution, number several thousands,
and nearly every electrical works, every place giving electro-
technical instruction throughout this country, employs some of
them. The success which these students have thus achieved
through their own ability and exertions is, I think, in no small
measure due to the institute having so wisely left the teaching it
gave untrammelled by any outside examining body, so that it was
possible for this teaching to be directed solely to the professional
needs of the students, and to be modified from time to time as it
seemed necessary. My hearty thanks are indeed due to the
Japanese Government and the City and Guilds Institute, my
masters during the last 19 years, for having left my colleagues and
myself unfettered liberty to carry on this experiment of finding
out better and better ways of teachin? the applications of science
to industry. And there need be no fear that with this freedom
the teaching will become stereotyped, and ^raduidly cease to deal
with the living science of the factory, for bemg bound by no code
we are able to vary our methods, our experiments, and our appa-
ratus according to the continually-changing conditions of the
profession. In order that the Gu&ds Institute should fulfil its
aim, it is absolutely necessary that its teaching should keep pace
with industrial progress. Now, even if it were possible for outside
examiners, with fixed scholastic notions, to aid in securing this
result, would not their efforts be superfiuous, for are there not
you, the employers of labour, to ultimately decide whether
the human tool we fashion is, or is not, adapted to your require-
ments?
Leaving now the consideration of the direct work of the City
and Guilas Institute, including their extended system of techno-
logical examinations, at which last year 7,322 candidates were
examined in 53 different subjects at 245 different places in Great
Britain and the Colonies, the indirect results tnat have pro-
ceeded from the initiative of this institute are even greater.
For while 12 years ago education'in applied science in this country
was a tender little infant, requiring much watehing and support,
combined with constant encouragement, to-day Technicsi
Education — with a capital T and a capital E, bear in mind — is
a stalwart athlete, the strong man on the political platform,
exercising the minds of county councillors, ana actually regarded
as of more importance than the vested interests of the publican.
Until quite recently it was the technical education of the
young engineer that had to be considered, but now the problem
has become a far wider one, for the education of the British
workman is being vigorously pushed forward, and I think that it
has become incumbent on you — the representatives of the electrical
profession — to express your decided opinion as to what this educa-
tion of the electrical artisan ought to be. The technical education
snowball set in motion 12 years ago by the City companies has
been rolling — nay, bounding forwara— so swiftly during the last
year or two, that probably some of you have haraly followed it in
its rapid growth both in size and speed. £30,000 has been spent
on the Polytechnic in the Borough-road, the Charity Commis-
sioners have already endowed this school with an income of £2,500
a year, and it is hoped that before the building is opened, this
income will have been doubled. £50,000 has been already
promised for the Battersea Polytechnic, the Charity Commis-
sioners having also undertaken to provide this technical school
with an income of £2,500 a year as soon as the subscription
reaches £60,000 ; and for the establishment of a pol3rtechnic
in the City £50,000 has been set aside out of the funds
of the Charity Commissioners, as well as a yearly grant of
£5,350. Finally, not to speak of poljrtechnics m North, South,
East, and West London, Mr. Quintin Hogg has himself spent
£100,000 on the Regent-street Polytechnic ; while the Drapers'
Company have alone given £55,000 to the technical department of
the People's Palace at Stepney, and endowed it with an income of
£7,000 a year. And, most recently of all, the Goldsmiths' Com-
pany have put on one side nearly a quarter of a million sterling
for the land, the buildings, and for an endowment of £5,000 a year
in perpetuity, for their Technical and Recreative Institute recently
openea at New Cross. The following table gives an idea of the
sort of sums that are being spent on polytechnic education in
London, but it does not profess to eive the entire amounte that
have been devoted to capital expenmture and yearly maintenance,
even for the six pol3rtecbnlcs named in the table :
Capital Expenditure, Yearly EndowmentM,
POLTT&OHNIO, BoROnOH-aOAD.
Already spent £30,000 Charity Commissioners
alone £2,500
(Endowment expected to be
doubled before opening.)
Battkrsea Poltteounio.
Already subscribed ... £50,000 Charity Commissioners
alone £2,500
City Polytbchnio.
Charity Commissioners
alone to spend £50,000
Charity Commissioners
alone £5,360
Reoent-strket POLTTEOHinO.
Spent by Mr. Quintin
Hoge £100,000
Spent by Charity Com-
missioners 11,750
People's Palace, Mile End.
Charity Commissioners
alone £3,500
Given by Drapers'
Company alone £55,000
Given by Charity
Commissioners alone 6,760
Drapers' Company alone £7,00
Charity Commiwioners
akme 3,600
114
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 29, 1892.
TcoHNioAi. AND Rbobeatite Institutb, New Cross.
Givan by GoIdHmitha' I Goldimitbs' Company.. £5,000
Comp»ny £70,000 ]
(RepreMnting & total expeaditare of nearly £260,000. )
Other contributionB t
polytochnica in Lon-
don by Charity Com-
miadonere
£6,000
Yearly endowments of
Cfaarit; Commie-
■ionera bo other tech-
London ... £3,200
Totals fkoh the above sources ajlohk ;
£379,S0O I £32,500
Large aa are these earns tbey are, however, even «ma]l compared
with uie amount nused by Mr. Uoschen's beer and spirit tax, which
it has been decided shall be need for the public benefit, and not
for the benefit of the publican- The oountiee and county borouehs
of England now receive nearlv three-quarters of a million sterling
per annum, of which the whole may be devoted to technical educa-
tion. The majority of the counties and county boroughs propose
to utilise this ntagnificenb opportunity and devote to technical
education the entire sum allocated to them, while the re<iiainder
nse at leul a part for this purpose. Middlesex and London,
however, stand alone, and employ their whole yearly f^rant of
£163,000 for the relief of the rates, on the plea that they consider
that the City oompanies are well able to look after the technical
•dncatioo ol London. Besides this spirit duty, 106 towns are
levying rates in aid of technical education under the Technical
Instmction Acta of 1860 and 1891, the number of these towns
having; increased by 20 in ihe last seven months, showing how
tapidljr is this desire for technical education spreading throughout
Great Britain.
In addition to the sums contributed for tecbnical education by
the City companies, coll^iate bodies, and private persons who
have the practical education of the nation at heart, the following
represent, as far as I have been able to ascertain, the amounts
that it has been already decided shall be actually spent, yearly, on
technical education in England alone, exclusive of Scotland,
Ireland, and Wales :
Received from the Customs and Excise duties ... £^00,000
„ „ rates 18,046
Given by the Charity Commissioners 20,550
The yearly amount that will be actually raised under the Technical
Instruction Acts will be far larger than the £18,046 stated above,
for this represents only the sum of the amounts raised in the very
few towns who have already made returns.
Hence the total sum to be spent in England atone on so-called
technical education amounts to certainly over £6')U,000 per annum.
As the teaching of electrical technology has been atarl«d, in
■ome form or other, in nearly every important town in Great
Britain, there is no occasion for me to advocate, as I did in this
room 10 years ^o, tliat a student of electrical engineering should
have an education in applied science ; bnt what I desire to most
strongly urge on you to-night is, that it is your bounden duty
to see that some portion of tne vast sum that is about to be spent
on the education of the people is ased to give such a training to
your workmen as shall really benefit your industry. For otherwise
there is a great fear that most of the money devoted to electrical
teaching will either be frittered away on the natural loadstone,
rubbed amber order of instruction so dear to the hearts of the
soboolmen, or on semi-popular lectures describing in a bewildering,
sketchy fasblon the whole vast field of electrical engineering.
The workmen you employ are of two claases- In the one class
w the man who is all day long, say, stamping out iron discs for
Minature cores, and the boy who, say, feeds the screw-making
machine with its proper meals of brass rod. For such work no
twhnioal education is necessary ; the workers are mere adjuncts
to the machines, t« be dispensed with as the machines become
more and more perfect. Henoe, unless the machine-minder has
the ambition and the ability to rise to some Ines mechanical
oocupation, his activity, if any be left him after a bard day's work,
bad probably better be spent in effort of a li|;hter and more
-ive character than would alone be necessary to make him
IT class of artisan- For him the polytechnic variety course
raction is an inestimable blessing, for he can do a little
typewriting, learn violin playing and modelling in clay, attend
an ambulance class, recite a poem, and devote the remainder of
bis leisnre to the piano botany, sanitary science, reading books
and learning how to keep them. His general interests will be
roused, the human side of his nature developed, and during the
evening, at any rate, he may forget that he is the slave oI the
Gramme ring or the slave of the electric lamp. No wonder, then,
that within two months of the opening of the Goldsmiths'
Institute at Kew Cross 4,000 members were enrolled,
But your workmen of the other class must, or at an^ rate ought
to, think. Take, for example, the man engaged in wu'mg houses,
whose work is continually changing, and oifiring small problems
to be solved. Here common sense, or uncommon sense, if you
§ refer it— is of great value, and the work, to be good, must be
one by a man with a knowledge of principles, and not by a mere
machine- minder. Many joints— bad joints— in wires laid in cement
nnder mosaic, which cannot be replaced except at vast expense,
even althengh the insulation has rotted away ; )iarquetry floors
nailed to insulated wire ; switchboards screwed on to damp walls ;
lampholdera that only moke contact when the lamps are twisted
askew ; high-class insulated mains Mrminating in snake-like coils
of flexible wire rubbing against metal in shop windows, under shop
fronts ; heavy Oriental metal lamps hanging from lightly- inaulated
cord ; all this would be avoided, if the workmen had been taoght
to nse tbeir brains as well as their hands.
Now, do yon think that the teaching necessary for this parpoae
is likely to be given at the ordinal? English polytechnic school T
In the case of the Ooldsmiths' Institute the electro- technical
department has been put under the charge of Messrs. Dykes and
Thornton, two diploma students of the Central Institntion ; and
the fact that these men are, in addition, both employed in Messrs.
Siemens's work at Charlton leads one to hope that their teaching,
at any rate, will breathe the spirit of the factory. And, therefore,
if ample funds be forthcoming for keeping the apparatus at New
Cross always up to date, so that the meters, the models, the
dynamos— not merely now at the start, but three years hence, six
SOTS hence — are tmly representative of the industry, there will
a fair prospect that the electrical deportment of the (ioldsmiths'
Institute, although but a fraction of the whole undertaking,
may really ben^t the electrical workmen in the South-East of
London. But my colleagues and I view with considerable appre-
hension the way in which the present wide demand for teachers in
technical schools is being supplied. Several of our own students,
for exaimile, tempted by the comparatively high remuneration
that is ofiered, have become teachers in technical schools imme-
diately on leaving the Central Institution. In many respects they
are undoubtedly well qualified ; but if they had fi^t spent some
time in works before attempting to teach techoical subjects they
would have better understood the wants of the persons whom they
have undertaken to instruct. No greater mistake can be made
than to think that a student who has distinguished himself at a
technical college can dispense with the training of the factory,
unless it be the opposite mistake of imagining that the factory
training is equivalent to, or even something better than that
given at a modem school of engineering. It is the province
of the manufacturer to turn out apparatus and machmery as
cheaply, quickly, and as well made as is possible. It is the
Srovince of the technical teacher to prepare the human tool
ir subsequent grinding and polishing in the works. And
this necessity for the teacher having himself passed through
the shops has especial weight when we are dealing with the
technical instruction of workmen, for in such a case there are
three requirements absolutely necessary— first, knowing how to
teach ; second, possessing a fair knowledge of scientific pdnciplee;
and thirdly— and this is perhaps the most important of all —
knowing exactly what it is that the particular workman ought to
learn in order to help him in his particular trade. Schoolmastem
may have the first two re<|uiBitoa, and so may do valoable work in
connection with the variety teaching at a polytechnic ; but they
are not in touch with the workshop, and therefore, no matter
what may be their scholastic attainments, no matter what the
extent of their experience in training the young, they are not the
persons to give the real technical education to workmen.
In addition, then, Lo the polytechnics, we must have special
schools for special industries, where workmen are taught the
application of science to their special trades ; and everything
taught in such a school must be taughtas bearing on the particQiar
industry which the school is intended to benefit. A teacher of
physics, for instance, must remember tliat he is not training
Shyaicists, but workmen whose use of physical principles will be
lunded by their application to their special trade. For the great
danger of such teachers is that, carried away with enthusiasm for
their own subject, they will not subordinate it properly to the end
in view— viz. , helping the workman to know what will be useful to
him in his work. Indeed, as Prof, Huxley pointed out in his
original report to the Livery Companies' committee, " succeas in any
form of practical life is not an affair of mere knowledge. Even in
the learned professions, knowledge per *e is of less oonsequence than
people are apt to suppose- ... A system of technical educa-
tion may be so arranged as to help the scholar to use his intelli-
gence, to acquire a fair store of elementary knowledge which shall
be thorough as far aa it goes, and to learn to employ his hands,
while leaving him fresh, vigorous, and content ; and such a system
will render an invaluable service lo all those who come under its
infiuence- But if, on the other hand, education lends to the
enoouragement of bookishnees, if it sets the goal of youthful
ambition, not in knowing, but in being able to pass an examina-
tion, eepecially if it foaters the delusion that Drain work is in
itself a nobler or more respectable kind of occupation than handi.
work, and leads to the sacrifice of health and strength in the
t of mere learning, then such a system may do incalculable
and lead to the rapid ruin of the industries it is intended to
serve." And I ventnre to think that not merely at technical
schools for workmen, but at technical collies for engineers, it
should be ever remembered that the main objeot of the training ia
not the cultivation of mental gymnastics, but to enable the student
to acquire knowledge and habits which shall be professionally
useful to him in after life.
" Useful learning nsefull; taught" would be no bad motto for
technical institutions, seeing that thoae who favour the oompalsory
teaching of Greek are apparently willing to accept the converse ■■
the motto for the university. For example, Mr. Butcher, in his
address delivered at the end of last session at University Collie,
Bangor, said, " We claim it as a distinction that in the seate of
academic learning little or nothing useful ia taught " ; and in ao
article in last month's Forlnightly AefMW, congratulating Cam-
bridge on its recent victory over the barbarian, Mr. Bury saye,
quite candidly, " Greek ia useless, but its uselessneas is the very
strongest reason for its being a compulsory subject in the univer-
sity course." And he add, in italics, " For Ihe (rue fimeiion of a
tauitriiii/ u Ike Iraehing oftutlttt Uarmrtg."
A few of the oounty councils have realised that the real teaching
of the application of science to a speoiol industry, which ia what
pursuit
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 5J9, 189-2. Il5
the British workman ia so much in need of, cannot be given, as
well as a host of other sabjecte, out of limited fundB. For example,
Bedfordshire has decided to spend its grant of £4,343 mainly on
agricnltare, market gardening, the straw trade, domestic economy,
and industries for women ; Cambridgeshire and Cheshire devote
themselves largely to the teaching of agricultural pursuits. But
other places aim at issuing vast comprehensive programmes
and turning out yearly a mighty array of students, knowing,
it may be, the something of everything, but who certainly
will not know the everything of something. For example,
the Holland division of Lincolnshire has decided, out of only
£2,000 a year, to make grants for daily schools, university exten-
sion and art schools, agricultural science, domestic economy,
mechanics, commercial subjects, and ambulance teaching ; while
Bootle, with a yearly expenditure of only the same amount, main-
tains classes in five commercial subjects, in 16 science and art
subjects, in cookery, wood -working tools, as well as four courses
of university extension lectures. Because a certain building in
Regent-street, famed for its ghost and its diving bell, was years
ago named ** The Polytechnic," the majority of the new technical
institutions which are being establishea in London at such vast
cost are also called " iwly technics," and will, I fear, give only an
English polytechnic course. Now, such recreative education,
although admirable for those who seek relief from work in the use
of their minds, is not generally sufficient for those of your work-
men who use their minds in their daily occupation.
It ought, then, to be thoroughly recognised that there is an
entirely new problem to be solved, and that the solution of this
problem, in so far as it has been worked out at the Finsbury
College and at other places giving practical teaching in the
evening, must, in the language of the mathematician, be regarded
simply as " the singular solution," and not the general solution, of
the problem of technically educating the British workman. Let
us gratefully accept the English polytechnics, for they will
undoubtedly confer benefit on our country, and all credit be to
those who hiave so generously established them. But do not let us
be misled by the similarity between their generic name and that of
the Cj^rman ** polytechnicum " into fancying that the recreative
courses of the one are equivalent to the serious education given by
the other. Like Oliver Twist, let us ask for more, for, on behalf of
the large number of minds already employed in the electrical
industry, and on behalf of the still larger number that will in
tbe future be so employed, it is our duty to secure that ample
provision be made in this country for the practical teaching of
electroteohnics on a scale comparable with tnat afforded in the-
technical high schools of Germany and the institutes of technology
of the United States. On the screen you see projected a photo-
graph of the fa9ade of the Technical High School at Charlotten-
burg (Berlin), which appears extensive and grand ; and yet, as
you will see from the next photograph, it was only a small portion
of the whole building that you were looking at on the first
photc^raph. This is but one of the many technical high schools
m dinerent towns of Germany, and yet it covers an area more
than five times as large as that occupied by the Central Technical
Institution in Exhibition-road, Lonoon, cost four times as much to
erect, and has more than four times as much spent on its yearly
maintenance. The next photograph shows a ouilding devoted
wholly to the training of electrical engineers, being that of the
Electro-Technical Institution Montefiore at Li^ge, which Prof.
Cierard kindly took me over this last summer, ana which has since
been opened. When I tell you that there are rooms for small
direct-current dynamos, separate rooms for large direct-current
dynamos, separate rooms for alternators, and tnat every three
students have a separate little laboratory, with the necessary
measuring instruments, all to themselves, your educational mouth
will water, as mine did.
We now cross the Atlantic to the Massachusetts Institute of
Technology, Boston, which, as you see, consist of several distinct
buildings, the centre one being that which contains the electrical
laboratories. The dynamo-room, now seen on the screen, has
many small and large dynamos in it, and yet there is ample room
to walk about, for this dynamo-room occupies a space many times
as large as that devoted to dynamos at theCentral Technicallnstitu-
tion 01 London. Prof. Cross was so good as to mention in a letter
that was shown me some two years ago, that several of the
devices that had been worked out for the electrical laboratories
of the City and Guilds Institute had been reproduced at Massa-
chusetts ; but there is one device that Prof. Cross has succeeded
in working out, and which I should be most glad to see copied by
the City and Guilds Institute, and that is,naving one assistant
for every five students working in the physical laboratories.
Franklin Hall, presided over by Prof. Nichols, is devoted solely
to the department of pure ana applied physics at the Cornell
University, Ithaca. You see how large this four-storeyed building
must be, tor look huw small the four-wheeled waggon standing in
front of it appears. The next three photographs show some
of the provisions made for teaching electrotechnics in Franklin
Hall ; the electrical laboratory, under Prof. Moler ; and
the dynamo-room under Prof. Ryan, whose analysis of
alternate-current curves are well known to you all. I
might show you photographs of the electrical laboratories in
Prof. Weber's new building for physics at Zurich, on which
£100,000 has been already expended. In fact, my choice of mag-
nificent continental and American laboratories has been so great
that I have hardly known which to select as specimens. But
there is one thin^ I cannot show you—and it must remain for the
exercise of your mfluence as repiresentatives of the electrical pro-
fession to xnake that possible — the British electro-technical labora-
tories for education and research which are truly worthy of
LondoD, the capital of the world.
The training of such students as those at the Central Institu-
tion must, of course, differ essentially from that of the electrical
artisan, not because we or the students expect that on entering a
factory at the conclusion of their college course they will start, as
a rule, much above the bottom of the ladder, but because they
hope in time to be able to mount higher. They are, therefore,
taught not merely to construct meters and motors, use dynamos
and engines, build a chimney and lay a street main, but, as they
are not to spend all their lives wiring houses or watching a
central station voltmeter, they are well practised in calculatmg
and designing, and they further obtain sufficient acquaintance
with the methods of attacking new problems not to be daunted
when they meet with them in after life. But so strong is
becoming our belief in the value of science to the manufacturer,
so anti-classical are some of us growing, that there is
great risk that the literary side of the ^ucation of an electrical
engineer will soon be wholly neglected. Now, important
as it no doubt is for him to be quite at home with electrical
apparatus and machinery, it is no less important, if he is to
take advantage quickly of the progress made abroad, that
he should be able to read a German or a French newspaper.
I do not merely mean that with a grammar and dictionary,
and plenty of leisure, he should be able to translate the newspaper,
sentence by sentence, like a schoolboy preparing to-morrow's lesson,
but that he should have the power to glance down the columns,
gather the gist of the articles, and quickly see whether there be
anything new that especially concerns him. How many electricians
are there in this country who can, for example, take up the
Ztiischrifl fUr Instrumentenkunde or the Electrotechnische Zeitschrt/t
and look through their pages as they do those of the E/ectriciaii, the
Electrical Rtvieic^ and the Electrical Engineer, during breakfast on
Friday morning. There are, I know, a few — I wish I were one of
them. And yet examples are not wanting of the scientific isolation
that is caused by not possessing that familiarity with foreign
languages which is such a characteristic of diplomatists and hotel
waiters. Take, for instance, the fact that whereas manganin was
manufactured on a commercial scale in Germany, and German
resistance coils have for the last throe years been constructed of
this material with a temperature coefficient of nearly zero, the
very existence of this alloy was unknown to many English elec-
trical instrument makers a few weeks ago ; and even now many of
them are still unacquainted with the composition of manganin,
and its peculiar properties, as well as with the results of the
extensive and striking experiments that have been carried out at
the Reichsanstalt at Charlottenburg on the temperature coefficient
and specific resistance of all sorts of mauganin-copper-zinc-nickel-
iron alloys. This Physikalisch-Technischen Reichsanstalt, I may
mention, is an establishment totally distinct from the Technical
High School in Charlottenburg, some photographs of which I
showed you this evening. The Reichsanstalt is not an institution
with students, but a vast series of Imperial laboratories, presided
over by Prof, von Helmholtz, solely used for carrying out researches
in pure and technical physics. The investigations are conducted
under the direction ox Dr. Loewenherz, aided by 46 assistants.
We have no establishment in Great Britain at all comparable
with this Reichsanstalt. The original work turned out tnere in
electrotechnics alone is considerable. Here are some of the
published accounts of researches immediately bearing on your
profession which Dr. St. Lindeck has been so kind as to send me :
** Hardening Steel Magnets," '* Standard Resistance Coils for
Large Currents," •* Tests of Commercial Ammeters and Volt-
meters," "Mercury Standard of Resistance," ** Photometric
Investigations," '* Compensation Apparatus for Use in P.D.
Measurements," ** Alloys for Resistance Coils," and so on. Surely
it is part of the technical education of the electrical engineer to
be taught how to read such pamphlets as these with comparative
ease.
A working knowledge of French and German can be obtained
without the necessity of learning to express oneself fluently in
epigrammatic French, or to imitate with facility the word-building
of a native German ; and with such a working knowledge the
average technical student may rest content. But as regards
his own language he should aim at something higher, and
therefore the e&ctrical engineering students of our country
should be, I would urge, practised in writing — yes, and also
speaking — vigorous English. Only the other day, Prof. Nichols,
of the Cornell University, was deploring with me the rarity of
finding a student of electrotechnics who could write a decent
report. The experimental methods employed in the student's
investigation might have been good, the mathematical analysis
suitable, and the calculations exact ; but the description of the
apparatus and of the results obtained would bo scattered pell-mell
over the paper, as if the writer were quite ignorant of the fact
that the style in which a dish is servea up is nearly as
important as the goodness of its ingredients. Why do yon
suppose that Huxley's portrait has nearly as much prominence
given it in the photc^iiniupher's window as that of a duke
or a ballet dancer? Quite as much because he knows how to
express himself in terse and forcible English as on account
of his wide scientific knowledge ; because even when writing about
dry bones the flow of his language clothes them with rounded
forms. But, you will ask, how are we to find the time for all this
linguistic and literary polish ? Has the electrical student of to-day
so many spare hours that fresh subjects of study must be sought
for to fill up his leisure moments ? At present much time has to
be wasted at technical and other colleges teaching students 16
years or older elementary mathematics and science, which ought
to have been mastered before that age. When the education of
childhood is improved, when the higher education of women is
properly carried out, there will be no need for male experts to
no THE ELECTRICAL ENGISEEft, JAKtJARY 29, 1892.
troabte aboat ((eneriil training, for then children will spend leBs
time at sohoal and Isarn more : boys and girls will oo h matter
of couree ncqoiro the foundation of modern laQKOELgei Hiid general
education : and Htudentx at a college wUl be able to devot« t>beir
whole time to the special training— acientifio, manual, Unguiatic,
and literary— which parlainH to the particular proleBsion which
their special tastes will generally have led them to select before
the age of 1 Q.
And just aa methods of tenching applied ecienoe have been
developed during the past few years, so I look forward to the
growth of new methods of teaching what may be called applied
Mteraturo, for it seems to me that there is a want of breadth
in the view that because the study of Greek voree would be
DnproStahle for a student of eleotrotechnics, and because he has
neither the taste nor the time to enter into the Intricacies of
etymology and grammar, therefore the study of modem laneuages
and literature, even aa directly applicable to bis profession,
should form no part oi his regular training. As well miglit it be
thought (ancl 1 am sorry to say this view is no' yet quite
exploded) that because a student has neither the teste nor
the time for the study of abstract mathematics, therefore he
elionld bo debarred from sJl work in a physical laboratory. Well,
if it be generally accepted t^at altliough a young electrical
engineer has no chance of becoming a Cayley or a Maxwell, still
be ought to be taught such portions of mathematics and physics
as will be directly useful to him in his profession, why should
the certainty that he will neither become a Jebb nor a. Dickens
lead us to tolerate an inability on his part to speak Quently and
write tersely his own language, surpassed only by his entire
Ignorance of every other ! Habits of scientific thought are highly
necessary for electrical students : M be maators of their own
longuBge, and to know something of one or two others, are, 1 venture
to think, no less so ; bub the main result to be achieved, the main
object Co be aimed at, with every system of education, is moral
thoroughness, For until every workman, foreman, engineer, and
manufacturer feels regret and pain at seeing work inetficiently
performed our national system of education will he incomplete.
All the labour now expended in watching work in progress,
and in testing it when completed to see that it has not been
acam|:>ed, is so much withdrawn from the re^l business of produc-
tion. Every rise, therefore, in the standard o! thoroughness of a
cximmunity moans the saving of waste labour. But lar greater
than this will be the actual increase in the productive power when
each gives hia best endeavours to his share of the world's work.
And greatest of all will be the gain in the nation's happioess,
aince lie who works with his whole soul knows no drudgery. The
ieason to bo taught is no new one— it was set many centuries ago ;
BJid hundreds of thousands a year will be well spent if the county
eounciU can succeed in bringing home to the hearts of us all this —
" Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might."
ELECTRO-HARMONIC SOCIETY.
A smoking concert will be held on Friday, February 5th, 1892,
at the St, James's Hail Restaurant (Banquet* room). Regent -street,
W., at eight o'clock.
Artistes : Mr. Schartau's I'arb Singers, Mr. H. Scharbau, Mr. E.
"Dal!»ll, Mr. W. Bradford, Mr. C. T. Johnson ; claruiet, Mr. L.
Beddome : violin, Mr. T, E, Gatehouse ; solo pianist, Mr, Alfred
E. Izard. Musical directors : Mr. T. E. Gatehouse and Mr. Alfred
Izard. A Broadwood piano will ba used. The following is tbe
programme :
Pabt I.
Flantotion Chorue "Dinah Doe"
Mr. Scfaarbau'a Part Slagera.
Clarinet Solo "Adelaida" Beethoven.
Mr. Leonard Beddome.
Song " By the Fountain " Adams.
Mr. E, Dalzell,
(a) Part Song " The Soldier's Farewell" MS.
(b) Hnmorous Quartette..." The Franklyn's Dogge "
Dr. A. C. Mackenzie.
Mr. Sohartau's Part Singers.
Pianoforte Solo " Variations Stfrieuses" Op. 57, Mendelssohn.
Mr. Alfred Izard.
Plantation Melody " Poor old Joe" Speoially arranged,
Mr, Sohartau's Part Singers.
Humorous Song "The General Election" MS.
Mr. H. Schartau.
Pa
■ II.
,. German.
Voool Polka "Trip, Trip"
Mr, Sohartau's Part Stngets.
Clarionet Solo "Lo I here the gentle lark " Bishop.
Mr, L. Beddome.
Song " Tbe Diver" Loder.
Mr, W. Bradford.
Mr, &hartau'a Part Singers,
/ (a) " Largo " T Handet.
\ (b) "Saltarella" } Fapini,
Mr. T. E. Gatehouse.
" The Pilgrim of Love." Bishop.
Mr- E. UalwlL
Mr, Scbaitau'B Part Slogen,
CARDIFF AND ELECTRIC LIGHTING.
The Cardiff authorities have been collocting information aa to
electric lighting in other towns, and a report upon the subject wu
before the Council at its last meeting. It appears that over 50
towns have taken no steps whatever in the matter of lighting by
electricity. Of the 16 boroughs whose replies are detailed,
Accrington, Bradford, Brighton, Cambridge, Dover, Glasgow,
Hastings, Huddersfield, Hull, Manchester, Richmond (Surrey),
WalflolT, and WorceaWr, hav-e obtained provisional electric
lighting orders, that of Brighton, though obtained in
IS83, not being put in force till IH90. Neither Bognor,
Eastbourne, nor Leamington has obtained suoh orders, Bognor is
to be supplied by the Electric Trust Company, whose order pro-
vides for supply of public lamps by agreement, for a charge ot
l.'^s. 4d, per quarter for any amount up to 20 units, and 8d.
Cer unit over that number. Eastbourne parades are lit
y the Eastbourne Electric Lighting Company, whose ore
and incandescent lamps are placed 1(KI yards apart, tbe ebaree
both for public and private supply being lOd, per unit. T^e
light, it is said, given every satisfaction, but it is admitted to
be costlier than gas. At Leamington a private, and not a public,
supply is provideil by a private company at a charge ot Sd.
per unit. At Bradford the scheme is nob in operation as Ear ae
regards street lighting. The erection of works cost £.^,213 ;
mains, £3,361 ; machinery, etc., £24,354 ; and boilers and fittings,
£3,IT4, making a total of £30,102. The sum borrowed total&d
£34,342, the period allowed for repayment being 30 years.
The light is also not used for street illumination at Brigbton,
where the cost is estimated at £35,000, in addition to £2,600 for
land. 'ThesystemadoptediE that of low-tension continuoug current,
supplemented by storage batteries. The charge is 7d. per Board of
Trade unit, the same charge being made fortho supply formotive
purposes. Cambridge has juBtappIied for power to borrow £35,000 ;
whilst at Dover the powers obtained by the Corporation
are about to be transferred to the Brush Company. No
works have yet been constructed, and no streets are yet lighted at
>ntmeted with a focal company for lighting 15
lamps on the parade at £30 per lamp per annum. The Hudders-
lield CorporatioD has entered into a contract for the erection
of plant, and are applying for power to borrow £50,000. The
Lighting Committeo of the Hull Corporation are only about to take
the initiative. They do not intend to light the streets at present,
'"'"''"'' lUs been
but only to supply private customers. Thesuro of £22,000 hi
granted by the Council. Thesystom is the low-pressure cont
current, and the price Td. per unit. At Manchester a consulting
engineer has been appointed, a site for a central station obtainedj
and plans and speciGcationE ore now being prepared. Richmond
has entered into a contract with a comfiany who have laid the
wires. At Walsall a committee has reported in favour of carrying
out the pi'ovisional order nt once, at a total estimated cost m
£21,450, Thosystem has not yet been settled. The Worcester
Corjioration is also about to ostablish the necessary works to pub
their provisional oi'der into force, and at the beginning of this
month advertised for tenders for constructing works for tbe
central portion of the city. These tenders are to be in by
February 14.
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
ST. JAMES'S AND PALL HALL ELECTRIC LIGBT
COMPANY.
The annual ordinary meeting of this Company was held at the
St. .James's Hall Eoataurant, Piccadilly, VV., on Tuesday after-
noon, 26th inst, , the chairman, Mr. Eustace J. A, Balfour,
presiding.
The Seorstarr, Mr. F, J. Walker, having read the notice con-
vening the meeting, and tbe Directors' report ha\ing been taken
The Cluttman said : The next business of the meeting is the
proposal that the report and accounts for the year ending
December 31st, IS91, aa submitted by the Directors, bo received
and adopted, and that the dividends recommended therein be
declared and paid on the 1st February,
This was seconded by Hr, Latimer Clark.
then said : 1 don't think it is very necessary for
the whole gives such information as it is desirable should bo
placed in the hands of the public Perhaps the most important
event of the year was the raising of the £10U,00U of additional
capital in the form of preference shares for tho completion of the
northern station. The lust £50,000 of this was largely over-
subscribed at a premium of 30e., a fact wbioh, t think, indicates
that both tho shareholders and the public in Keneral show ereat
conBdence in the soundness of the business of the Company, This
sum of £100,000 will, as yon are aware, be chieSy, and has been
portly, devoted to the purchase of the site for, and the erection of,
our northern station. We expect this station when erected
to be probably the beet of ite kind in the world, as it will
We electrical engineer, januarV 29, 1892. il7
contftLD all the aooumulAted expeiieDce that we have gained in the
erection of oar present station, as well as that which other com-
panies have gained in similar work. The machinery sufficient
to famish about 20,000 8-c.p. lamps is already nearly completed
for that station, and will be placed in position as soon as the
building is ready to receive it. It mav be of interest to the share-
holders to know that a large part of this machinery was running
and supplying light at the Naval Exhibition, and that we have
therefore this flwdvantage in purchasing it — I may sa^ it was
purchased before it went there, and belonged to us while it was
there — it has been running for this time without hitch or flaw, and
we took it over, not as new experimental material, but as having
been actually tried and found entirely satisfactory. A great feature
in the system which we are now developing is what we call the
g^reat trunk main, which is already partially made, and which
will connect the northern station with the existing station
in Mason's-yard. It has a section of eight square inches,
and is probably the largest main ever made. It is capable
of carrying a current sufficient to supply 25,000 lamps.
The importance of this cannot be over-estimated, because, well as
our present station has worked up to the present time, and well as
we expect it to work, it is impossible to suppose that it will not or
niav not be necessary to carry out repairs in it which mav involve
its being shut down for a short time. When this main nas been
constructed, and when the northern station is in working order,
we shall be in a position during the slack months of the year to
shut down either one station or the other for any repairs that may
be desirable, and bo work entirely from the one that is not shut
down, and that without any alteration in the supply of the light
in the consumers' houses. An eminent electrician connected with
electric lighting told me some months ago that he thought that
all new electric light stations should be buUt with two chimney
shafts. Whether he is right or not in his opinion I do not venture
to say, but the system that we propose to adopt combines all the
conditions of his proposal and a number of others besides, in
addition to being much more economicaL I don't think I need
add anything more on the particular subject of the working of the
Company during the past year, but I should like before I sit down
to touch upon a matter which I regard as of very great importance,
not only to this Company but to all electric lighting companies, and
to the whole question of the electric lighting of the Metropolis — I
refer to the legislation under which we have obtained our pro-
visional order. When legislation was first of all started with
respect to electric lighting, in the year 1882, the term fixed for
the expiry of a license W€ks seven years. That is to say, licenses
could oe terminated by a local authority or the Board of Trade in
seven years. This legislation seems to have been passed under
a sort of morbid terror that electric light companies were
going to become enormous corporations with great powers
. of monopoly. A provisional oraer under the same Act was
limited to 21 years. The result of this extraordinary Act
was that everyliody who had invested their money in electric
lighting concerns, lost it, and that the public was kept out of
electric lighting for several years, London thereby becoming far
behind any other capital in Europe in this matter, and far behind
many towns and villages in the west of America. Under the
present Act we have our provisional order lasting for 42 years,
out that provisional order, and all provisional orders, are subject
to two conditions : Firstly, that tne Board of Trade can revise
rates at the end of every seven years. That is to say, the Board of
Trade can step in and say to us, *' You are charging too
much " at the end of every seven years of our tenure l^^inning
from 1889 ; and secondly, that the Boird of Trade has
arranged to put into every parish, or district, or area in London
at least two electric light companies. Now, if you will
consider these points for a moment, I think you will see
that they act first of all against the consumer indirectlv, and also
against the electric light companies. As we have only a termi-
nable lease of life of & years, it is absolutely necessary for us to
put by what we have termed a redemption fund, calculated to be
sufficient to replace the deficit in the capital account, which we
anticipate at the end of 42 years, when we shall or may be obliged
to hand over our business at a valuation to the local authority,
which has the option of purchasing. If our tenure were perma-
nent, after paying to our shareholders a reasonable dividend, we
could use the amount of this redemption fund in reducing the
cost of the light. In the present year, I think, making a rough
calculation, I may say that even if we paid to our present
shareholders the same dividend as we propose to pay, we
should have been able to reduce the cost of the light to the
consumers about one penny out of every seven. Consequently, the
power of septennial revision introduces an element of uncertainty
into the business, which must be injurious to all the interests con-
cerned. Nor IS it likely that this revision can be made to work in
a practical manner. Had the Board of Trade seen fit to grant
oompleto monopolies in every district — tiiat is, one company in
eveiy district — subject to some scheme of revision on a previously
defined sliding scale, such a systom might, I think, have been
foand to work. But as it is, on what basis are they going to
revise T Supposing we have a casein one district, say a London
parish, of two oompanies, one of which has paid on an average for
the seven years a cuvidend of 20 per cent., and the other during
the same period a dividend of 2 per cent. Is the Board of Trade
going to insist upon the reduction of the cost of electric lighting
becaose one company is paying and the other is not ? In
that case you might find the shareholders of the company
that had paid a small dividend absolutely ruined. In
fact, th^ (the Board of Trade) cannot get out of this,
they will either be hard or unfair upon one of the companies, or
upon the oonsamers in the dtstriot. In fact, I may say with
respect to this, it is quito clear that the two systoms which they
have adopted of what they torm limited competition and of revision
of rates, are absolutoly inconsistent. Now, lastly, the systom of
limited competition is injurious alike to consumer and producer,
in that it makes it necessary to earn a dividend on a much larger
capital than would be necessary to supply a district. Supposing
you have two electric light stations ana two sets of mains m one
district, instead of one. The amount supplied in the district is
the same, but the dividends have to be earned on a capital
which, I think, I am not overstating to be at least half
as much again as is required. You have, in addition
to that, the disadvantage that the streets are pulled up
twice .for every time they ought to be, and you have also to
consider that the initial expenses of a company have to be twice
incurred, and these, gentlemen, are items which are very much
larger than those who are not in the middle of the business are apt
to think. I have no more to say, but I hope that if shareholders
have any remarks to make or questions to put they will kindly
do so.
Colonel Franola said he had some remarks to make as to the
accounts, and some questions to ask, which he considered he was
entitled to have answered in bis own interest, and in that of large
shareholders who had become interested in the Company on his
recommendation. As to that paragraph of the report in which the
net earnings of the Company during the past year were stated to
be £10,395, be said that the net earnings of the Company for
that period had been £15,409, and that part of the law
charges item, £558, which included any expenses incurred
in 1890, ought not to come out of the revenue of 1891.
He had added to the net earnings, as stated in the paragraph,
the total amount of the depreciation and redemption funds.
His reason being as follows : He found that the very
large sum of £1,702 had been charged during the year to the
repair of machinery. When he was a director of the Company he
consulted the makers of the machinery, and they informed him
that if it were kept in perfect repair the depreciation was very
slight. He (the speaker) held that a sum of 6 per cent, on the
whole of the machinery would be ample for the purpose of
depreciation. At all events he asked on what calculations the
enormous sum of £4,013 (depreciation on buildings and machinery)
had been worked out, if the sum of £1,702 had been spent on
repairs? Had the original articles of association remamed in
force and not been altered, it would have been impossible
to introduce such a charge as the redemption fund. They
would see by referring to tbem that a reserve fund could
only be applied for purpose.^ indicated by a resolution of the
Company in general meeting. This was article 76, old form,
which had now been cut adrift. The painful impression of last
year still remained, he believed, in the minds of shareholders. It
was represented to them in the concluding paragraph of the report
for 1890 that, in order to obtain a quotation on the Stock Exchange,
it was necessary to remodel the articles of association. It was
then discovered that the omission of the words ** not to exceed
£1,500 " placed the shareholders at the mercy of the Directors.
He wi<«hea to know the grounds on which the Directors said that
there would be loss of capital at the expiration of the term covered
by the 'provisional order. He had compared Section A, revenue
account (cost of generation and distribution of electricity), for
1890 and 1891. The difiference was more than double. He
thought there would be no reason for surprise at this if
there had been a large increase in the items of coal
and labour. But he found that the enormous increase in
this matter of expenses was otherwise carried out, the coal
and labour charges only counting for £3,200. Turning to the
capital account, he found that the sum of £20,297 had been paid
for the new site of the northern station. They would remember
that Mason's-yard cost £9,500, and that a site within 50 yards of
the present one was obtained while he was a director of the
Company for £1,100 and £100 a year, in Canton-street, which was
nearly as lar^e and as suitable. He had had the present site
(northern station) valued by the most experienced surveyor of the
parish, and he placed its value at £8,000. The offices of the St.
James's Company were small in size, and, so far as he had observed,
plain in appearance. There were three small rooms. However,
the Directors had managed to spend £715 on furniture. Machinery
and plant were spoken of as costing £12,000. Was that machinery
in the new station or had it been supplied for the original one T
Could not the capital accounts of the two stations be kept separate, so
that shareholders might know exactly what each one was to coet ?
Now as to the financial arrangements of the Company ;|£100,000 had
been obtained from shareholders for preference shares, paying
interest at 7 per cent. At the time that tnis was proposed there was
considerable opposition to it, for it was perfectly well known that
the money coula have been raised at 5 per cent. In fact, an offer
of £50,000 at that rate had been made to the Directors and was
spoken of at the last meeting. However, it was urged that if the
sum was large, at any rate the original shareholders would benefit
by the transaction. The original debenture holders who had
power to convert did benefit, and in his opinion this transaction
was executed for their benefit. Of this amount, it appeared that
£27,000 were on deposit at Messrs. Lloyd's bank. He would
like to know at what interest? The £15,000 premium that
had been obtained by the issue of the second lot of shares
was placed at 2^ per cent. He thought it was absolutely
necessary in any case that the shareholders should obtain
information of what was going on more than once a year.
£353 had been spent for printing and adverUslng. He might
be unfortunate, but he had never seen any advertisement of
the Company's in any paper. Neither he nor anv other share-
holder had r«oeived any commanioation as to what had been going
118 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 29, 1892.
on in the Company since the last meeting. They were in absolute
ignorance, and remained in the Directors' hands. He did not
tnink it ought to last. He would ask, upon what scale had the
Directors gone in forming their estimates of depreciation on
machinery and buildings? Had the whole of the sura of £558
become due for law char^^ in 1891 ? On what j^rounds did the
Directors represent that there would be loss of capital at the
expiration of the term covered by the general order? What
course did the Directors intend to pursue in relation to their fees ?
Did they intend to replace the words '* not to exceed £1,500 " in
the paragraph of the articles of association bearing on this matter ?
As printing was charged at the rate of £350 a year, would the
Directors see that a fuU report of each meeting was sent to the
shareholders? He thought those gentlemen who lived in the
country and sent in proxies to the Directors, should have a fair
and distinct report of that meeting. Would the Directors arrange
that a meeting be held twice each year, in January and July ?
What amount was paid for the new site (of the northern station) ?
Who was the venaor? What surveyor acted on behalf of the
Company, and recommended that sum to be paid ? What sum
was to be paid under the contract for building the new station ?
What sum would be spent on machinery? Could not the capital
account of the two stations be kept separate ? And then came
the old question of the 18 founders' shares which were, as he firmly
believed, most improperly and illegally handed over to the
Debenture Corporation by its trustees ? He had been to great
expense about this matter, and had consulted counsel, who said
all that he had got to do was to bring an action, and that no judge
or jury could by any possibility sanction the proceeding. What
did the Directors intend to do on that point ?
• Ur. MnlrlieAd objected to their meeting in a public- house in
the West-end instead of in the City, which would be much more
convenient. He observed that it had deprived them of the attend-
ance of two Directors (Mr. Kirby and Mr. Clarke). (It was
explained that Mr. Kirby was detained in the Law Courts as a
witness). He did not think the accounts were at all an exhibition
of economy or management. He particularly pointed out the items
for repairs and depreciation, and what he termed the " ridiculous "
redemption fund. For this latter he could see no reason,
because he presumed that Company was bound by Section
2 of the Electric Lighting Act of 1888. In that Act it
was provided that should the property of the Company be
taken over by the local authority tne price to be paia was a
fair market value at the time of purchase. He thought
this value would be par at least. He observed that at compound
interest the amount put by would rise beyond the requirements of
the case — £95,000, he was understood to say. The law charges
were preposterous. He thought the Chairman had taken an
altogether pessimistic view, though he could quite understand
that he dia not want to make the best of the case, because the
Board of Trade might be down on him. It was no use their
knocking their heads against the Board of Trade ; the Company
were bound to conform with their requirements. It was to be
regpretted that they had the power to revise the Company's rates
in seven years, but they would have to face that when it came.
He didn't think the Board of Trade would be hoodwinked by
accounts.
Mr. George Freenuui thought their meetings ought to be held
in the City, and that a verbatim report should be sent to the
shareholders. He asked a question as to the interest on founders'
shares, and the undivided profit account for founders' and ordinary
shares.
Mr. Boraie wanted to know from the solicitor to whom the
redemption fund would belong at the end of the concession — would
it belong equally to founders and ordinary shares ?
The Chalmuui said if there were no other €|uestions he would
go through those asked, as far as might be, sertaim. One or two
of them, however, required a little reference to figures and the
articles, so that he would have to consult his co- Directors as to
the answers. First, on what scale was the estimate of depreciation
formed ? The matter was discussed with extreme care, and the
scale adopted was the ordinary one in businesses of this character —
viz t 1 per cent, on mains, 2^ per cent, on dynamos, general
machinery, and plant ; lOpercent. on accumulators, etc. ; 15 percent,
on boilers, and & per cent, on meters. Secondly, had the whole sum
of £558 for law charges become due on the face of the accounts ?
This was not so. On what grounds did the Directors represent loss
of capital ? The Directors^ground was that it was notorious that
it would be so, and they had taken it up under the best advice.
They had discussed the matter for a very lonj^ time, and had come
to that conclusion. Next, as to what course the Directors intended
to pursue as to their fees ? The answer to that question was given
to Mr. Muirhead at the end of the last special meeting.
The BoUoitor then answered Mr. Muirhead's objection to
patting aside money in a redemption fund, because the 1888 Act pro-
vided tor the purchase of the Company's business at a fair market
value, arguing that it was the *' then " value, and that the section
should be re^ as a whole. Mr. Mnlrliead, however, reiterated
his conviction that their property would be worth par at the end
of the term, and might be at 100 per cent, premium. This dis-
cussion having terminated.
The Cbalrman said the next question was, did the Directors
intend to replace the words in the articles, " not to exceed
£1,500"? The Directors had no such intention. As to the
printing charges, the Directors would consider the question
of sendmg out a full report to shareholders. But, having regard
to the fact that the printing expenses were high, they would
hesitate to add to them. Would the Directors arrange for a
meeting twice a year ? They were quite prepared to consider that
question. But, of coarse, having those meetings added enormously
to the labour of the clerical staff and took up time. (A
holder : We pay for extra labour. Are we not to know what we
are doing every half-year?) The Directors would consider the
matter. The Cfhairman, returning to the list of Questions, What
was the amount paid for the new site ? How lonjg nad the vendors
held the property, and who was the surveyor? The amount paid
was about £^,000. He did not know how long the vendors had
held, but they were old holders, and there was a large number of
them. The surveyor was Mr. Wilkinson, of 7, Poultry, E.C.
The sum paid for the building contract was about £ 19,(X)0. He could
not say at that moment what sum had been spent on machinery,
because they had not decided upon how much machinery was
to be put in. That would depend upon the demand.
As to the capital accounts of the two stations, the accounts were
all kept in acdOriance with Board of Trade rules, and were audited
by that Board. Answering the question. Why did they meet
there (in the St. James's Restaurant) ? the Chairman said it was
because they were inside their own district, because the owner of
the premises was a good customer, because it was close to the
station, and because the Board thought it desirable to do so. The
meeting, he remarked, was divided on the point whether they met
there or in the City. If, however, the majority of shareholders
would let the Board know that they preferred the meeting held
elsewhere, they would meet them in the matter. As to what
would happen at the end of the term of 42 years, supposing they
were bought up by the local authority, to the surplus, if any, that
accumulated, it would be divided in the proportion of 25 per cent,
to the holders of vendors' share6,after paying back all capital to all
shareholders. Having answered all the questions, with one
exception, as he said, the Chairman put the resolution adopting
the report and accounts, and declarea it carried. So far as we
could ascertain, there were 24 in favour and three against.
The CtaAlrman next proposed the re-election of the retiring
directors, Messrs. Egerton H. Clarke and H. Woodburn Kirbv,
but at the request ofa shareholder, put the names separately. On
his moving the reelection of Mr. Clarke,
Mr. Homan moved as an amendment that Mr. E. Clarke be not
re-elected on the Board. Two of the Directors, he said, were not
there (Mr. Clarke and Mr. Kirby), and they ought to have been.
(The CtaAlrman here interposed, by reading a letter from Mr.
Kirby stating his regret that he did not think he would be able to
be present, as he was summoned as a witness at the Law Courts.)
Whereupon Mr. Homan said he was perfectly satisfied with that
explanation. Had the Chairman a similar letter from Mr.
Egerton Clarke? (The Chatrmaii said he had not.) Continuing,
the speaker said that last Friday week, the 15th inst., being the
day on which the Directors met to discuss the question of a
dividend, Mr. Egerton Clarke actually sold on the Stock
Exchange one founder's share, and having done so, came to the
Board meeting to decide what the dividend on the founders' shares
should be. Was that fair, equitable, or straightforward ? ^ That
was not a speculative company, but one in which they considered
they could put their money safely, and believed that when all
differences of opinion were removed they would settle down into a
steady dividena-paying concern. He thought, however, thev had
a right to expect that they had men on their Board who would not
use the information they received as a means of jobbing in founders'
or any other shares. Mr. Clarke sold the share at £355 ; the
speaker was the buyer, so he knew something about it, though it
was not bought for himself. Immediately afterwards the price
went down to £270. He could not account for this, except that
Mr. Clarke was about the Stock Exchange, he believeci, as a
buyer. He most strongly opposed Mr. Egerton Clarke's re-election
to the Board.
This was seconded by Mr. Miilrlie»d with the greatest possible
pain and r^ret, because he would have liked to see Mr. Clarke
present to answer or himself. At the same time there were
certain facts concerning that Company which would not bear the
lieht of day.
The CtaAlrman said he was extremely sorry that question should
have arisen, and was still more sorry that Mr. Clarke was not
there to answer the allegations. He (the Chairman) had not the
faintest notion that he was not coming. Of course he knew abso-
lutely nothing of what went on on the Stock Exchange. He
never went near it. But he could say that Mr. Clarke did not
know what the resolution of the Board was going to be when he
came into the room on that day (January 15). Was any notioe
given to him that it was intended to oppose his re-election ?
Mr. Honuui : No ! Why should notice be given ? His duty is
to be here.
Mr. Davids asked whether the Board had at any previous
meeting had any idea how the accounts were going to turn out.
The Chalmuui said the accounts were made up that very
morning, and it was impossible for any Director to have a notion
how they would turn out.
Mr. Davids : But the probable result had been discussed ?
The Clialrmaa : No. The auditor, who was there, would tell
them when the accounts were made up. Not one of the points as
to dividends, etc., were settled until the afternoon of the above-
mentioned day. (Several shareholders : Were they discussed ?)
Mr. Bomaa said his point was that Mr. Clarke thought it
advisable to sell his share. They had some reason to presume
that he had a reason for selling it. Why did he do so ? This ought
to be explained by him in person.
Sir Jobn Morris asked whether Mr. Clarke did not offer to buy
back the bhare after selling it.
Mr. Homaa said he could not tell.
The Clialmuuft said he could safely say that the amount of the
redemption fund was never discussed by any member of the Board
before that afternoon, nor the amount of the dividend.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 29, 1892.
119
OtaamM FMaola Mked who Haggerted the redemption fund if it
wa* oerar diaoiuoed ! He did not wuh to Imply that the Chairman
was not stating what wu Dot the case.
The Clwlrauui said that be said the amounf bad not been
diacoased. Aa a matter of fact, the queBtlon of putting by that
Bam of money was dircuraed when he (Colonel Franeii) vm on the
Board.
Colout rt«nol« stated that when he was a director it was said,
What ve will do it this ; we mnM not give too Ut^e dividends to
■hareholders. Ws can give ourselves, aa Directors, larca fees—
that, on my honour, is what occurred— it is easy enough to
manafre it.
The OhBinww asked if Colonel Francis was speaking to any
particular motion, to which the Colenel replied. " No ; I am only
Answering queattonB."
The Chairman then put the amendment that Mr. Clarke be not
re-elact«d a director, which was carried, there being apparentW
20 in favour and thrse agningt it. He then, after a pause, staWd
that the Board thouBht it necessary to demand a poll. In ansirer
to a Shareholder, who asked it the Directors were going to use
their proxies in favour of Mr. Clarke, he said that the Directors
wouta consider tbat point. Subsequently, he said they would
not use their nroniea for votinj; on this question. In order to
Kive time to all parties to consider the matter, they had decided
tjut the poll should take place that day week between the hours
of three and half-past. (On the suggeabion of a shareholder this
was altered to between three and four), ab the Company's offices.
He hoped this would close the unpleasant incident for the time at
any rato. He would be glad to appoint Mr. Homan scrutineer on
one side, and the auditor on the other. This was agreed to.
The OlutlrDuui then proposed tbe re-election of Mr, Kirby as a
director, which was seconded and carried unanimously, as also
was the re-election of tbe auditors. This, he said, concluded the
bosinesB of the mtetii^. There was one thing he would
like to say, and that was tbat the thanks of tbe shareholders
wera due to their manager and secretary, Mr. Walker : their
engineer, Mr. Dobson, and also to the staff for the energy and
ability they had displayed. Night aftor night the staff had had
to work up till 12 o'clock, becaase they could not get mare people
into the room at their disposal, Mr- Dobson, who bad charge of
the machinery and so on, had produced results which were shown
by the report. He thought cretlit was often given to the Chairman
and Directors when a large p«rt of it ought to fall to the staff.
This was carried by acclamation, and the proceedings torminat«d
with a unanimous vote of thanks to the Chairman.
COMPANIES' REPORTS.
ANOLO-AHEBICAN TELEGRAPH COMPANY.
The report of tbe Directors, which is to be presented to the
half-yeau-ly meeting of the proprietors held to-day (Friday), states
that tbe total receipts from the IsC JalytotheSIst December,
ISQl, including the balance of £527 brought forward from the last
account, amounted to £164,121. This sum, however, is subject to
revision, as tbe lawsuit between this Company and the Paris and
New York Telegraph Company is still pending before tbe Coart of
AppftoL The traffic receipts show on increase of £6,157 as com-
pat^ with the corresponding period of Ust year, but this sum
includee the adjustment of bnlances to 30tb June lost. The total
expenses of the half-year, including repair of cables, etc., as shown
by ths revenue account, amount to £63,507. Interim dividends of
12s. 6d, per cent, on tbe ordinary stock, and £1. Ss, per cent, on tbe
preferred stock, were paid on tbe 3lBb October last, aiisorbing
£43,750, leaving a balance of £56,864, out of which the Directors
recommend the proprietors to declare Hnal dividends of 16s. per
eent. on the ordinary stock, and £1. 12s. per cent, on the preferred
stock, amounting to £66,000, making a total distribution for tbe
year ended the Slst December, 1801, of £2. 12s. 6d, per cent, on
the ordina^ stock, and £5. 5s. per cent, on the preferred stock,
leaving £864 to be carried forward to tbe nextaccount. The Com-
pany's repairing steamship " Minia " has been engaged during the
post half-year in the repair of tbe 1880 cable, the Bresb-St. Pierre
cable, tbe North and South Placentia cables, and the Duxbury
cable. Tbe "Minia" has also been employed in laying a
cable from North Sydney, Cape Breton, to Canso, Nova Scotia,
ooonecting this Company's systom with the Westorn Union
Company's cables between Canso and New York, thus proriding
ao additional and altornalive routo, which, in the event of sudden
pressure of business, or breakdown on the land lines, will be of
great value, Tbe new linecompletes through cable communicatioo
between England and New York City, The cost of Che new cable
has been charged to renewal fund. The Company's cables and land
lines are in good working order, with bbe exception of the Brest-
St. Pierre cable, which was again broken on t^e ISth November
last, at about 27'i miles from Brest, It is expected thab bbe law-
suit still pending bebween the Anglo Company and the Paris
and New York Telegraph Company will be argued before the
Appeal Court of Paris during ths course of Cbe coming month.
CITY AND SOUTH LOHDOM RAILWAY COMPANY.
Report of the Directors for tbe half-year ending December Slsb,
1891, to be submitted to tbe Bfteentb ordinary genenil meeting of
the Company, to be held at Wincheetor House, on Tuesday next,
February Snd, at 12 o'clock.
IHrectore ■. Messrs, Charles Orey Matt (churman), Harrow
Weald Lodge, Stanmore ; Charles Seymour Grenfell, Elibank,
Taplow ; Sampson Hanbury, L&ngford Park, Maldon, "
- „ - period _,
£15,516. 98. Sd., leaving a net proBt of £4.727. 5s, 8d, Including
the amount brought forward from last half-year, the net revenue
account shows a balance of £G,3'26, Os. 9d, ; of this amount the
debenture interest absorbs £4,Ii04. 10s., leaving a balance available
for dividend of £1,021. lOs, 9d., out of which it is recommended
that the full dividend of 5 per cent, be paid on the perpetual
preference shares, and although the balance remaining would
allow of a very small dividend on the ordinary shams, it is recom-
mended that it be carried forward to tbe next account Tbe
number of passengers carried by the railway in the past hotf-yeoi
was 2,749,055, showing an increase over the previous six months
3, after I
I the
consideration, found it necessary to vary the fares e
static ns between stated hours, with a result advantageous to the
Company and to the comfort of bbe travelling public. To meet
the convenience of residents along the line, a system of season
tickets bos been in operation since the Ist November lost. Not-
withstanding a considerable increase in the rates and toxes and
other items over wliich your Directors have no control, they have
sabisfocbion in reporting that the total expendituie shows a small
decrease over Chat of the previous halF-year, and it is hoped that
some further reductions may stilt be maide. The rolliug-stock has
recently been increased by the addition of the two new locomotives
referred to in the last report, which it is hoped will give
greator power and speed in working ths trains, and the six
addibioniLl carriages have also been delivered, Tbe fourth
engine and dynamo are now in course of erection for the
generating station. During the past three months the
traffic of the railway bos shown a marked and satisfactory
increase, which there is every reason to hope will continue and be
still further augmented. To meet this growing traffic, arrange-
ments ore in progress for providing a more frequent train servioe
during the busiest hours of the day. Aftor the experience of the past
year, there is every reason to be satisfied with bbe useof electricity
as a motive power for tbe working of this railway, and for a coo-
fidenb belief that when all bbe details are Cully perfected it will be
found to be at once safe, convenient, and economical. The diffi-
culties which have been experienced in dealing with the increasine
traffic at the King William-street Station, owing to its confined
dimensions and tbe steep incline leading to it, have induced your
Directors to deposit a Bill by which they seek parliamentary
Ewers to make a foot subway connecting the torminus of the
ndon, Brighton, and South-Coast Railway Company at London
Bridge with the station already authorised to be constructed
at the corner of Denman- street, and also to construct two
additional tunnels under the river with easy inclines to a central
station at the comer of Lombard- Street, and tbence under MoorgaU-
Bbreet to The Angel at Islington, where ample siding room can
be obtained at a small cost. These proposals meet with the
approval of the Directors of the London, Brighton, and South
Coaat Railway, and will bring upon the line a very large and
proHtable braibc, and ab tbe same time reduce oonsiderably the
cost of working tbe existing railway. It is also proposed to
construct an inclined footway connection between this Company's
station and the Monument Stotion of the Metropolitan aj^ the
Metropolitan District Railways, and powers for that purpose are
included in tbe Bill. Tbe Bill will be submitted for your approv^
at the conclusion of the half-yearly meeting. Owing to obher
engagements, Mr. Alexander Hubbaid has resigned bis seat ab
tbe Board, and the vacancy thus caused has been filled by the
election of Mr. Edwin Tato, of 21, Mincing-lane, London. The
director retiring it Mr. Charles Cirey MotC, who is eligible for
re-election. The auditors retire and areaisoeligible for re-election.
The stotoment of capital shows tbe total authorised capital to be
£1,025,000— vU, : £800,000 in sbaros, and £226,000 in loons.
£629,902 has been received in ordinary shares, leaving £20,000
unissued, and £0,216 in preference shores, leoving £140,380
unissued, the total share capital received being £639,118, and the
amount unissued £160,380, An amount of £171, tnO has been
raised by loans, leaving available borrowing powers at December
31 lost to tbe extont or£S3,400. The total expenditure on capital
account to December 31, 1891, was as follows : On linee open for
traffic, £306,301 ; lines iu course of construction, £7,942 ; and
working stock, £34,100, a totol of £846,344. Of this sum £825,828
was spent in the half-year ended June 30, 1991, and £22,516 in
tbe half-year to December last. The total estimated expenditure
on capital account during the ensuing half-yeor is £19,500, mada
up as follows: Lines open, £10,000 ; lines in course of construction,
£5,000 1 rolling-stock, £4,500. Subsequent half-years are debited
with an esbimoted capital expenditure on lines under construction
of £145,000. To meet Chis further expenditure the oooounts show
capital powers and other ovailable assets to the sxtont of £178,505.
Maintonance of way and works, eto., during the fa^-year cost
£491, of which £359was for wages and £75 for materials. Loco-
mobive and generating power cost £6,199, of which £100 was for
salaries, £5,879 for running expenses (Including £3,258 for WBMa
and £1,985 for coal and coke), and £219 for repairs and renswSs.
Carriage repairs and renewals cost £.165. Traffic expenses absorbed
£8,369, of which £.1,950 was for salaries, wages, etc, and £I,S69
for hydraallce. General charges ocoount for £1,522, of which
120 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JANUARY 29, 1892.
£650 went to Directors, £434 to salaries, and £272 to ofiBce ex-
penses. We give below in detail the revenue account and the
general balance-sheet.
Revenxte Acxx>unt fob tub Half-Ybab ending Dec. 31st, 1891.
Dr. £ s. d.
Maintenance of way, works, and stations , 491 4 7
Locomotive and generating power 6,199 12 11
- ■ ' 365 0 10
6,369 8 0
1,522 3 6
66 12 4
91 18 6
410 9 0
Carriage and waggon repairs
Traffic expenses
General charges.
Law charges ....
Compensation...
Rates and taxes.
Balance carried to net revenue account
Cr. £ s. d.
Passengers —
2,749,055 19,550 2 10
323 season tickets 248 13 8
Parcels, etc 5 5 11
15,516 9 8
4,727 5 8
£20,243 15 4
£ B. d.
Transfer fees
Rent of property, etc., net
19,804 2 5
3 17 6
435 15 5
£20,243 15 4
Dr. Genebal Balance-sheet. £ s. d.
Balance from revenue account 1,021 10 9
Unpaid interest 154 1 10
Literest payable or accruing and provided for 2,116 5 11
Sundry outstanding accounts 34.893 15 7
Lloyd's bonds 8,000 0 0
Construction reserve 3,314 3 9
Cr.
}
£ s. d.
Cash at bankers— current account ... 2,236 19 11
„ in hand 166 4 5
General stores — stock of materials on hand
Sundry outstanding accounts
Islington extensions, parliamentary expenses paid
Parliamentary deposit, 1890 Act 7,071 13
Balance from capital fliccount 35,776 16
£49,499 17 10
£ s. d.
2,403 4 4
1,922 12 1
134
2,191
8 11
3 2
0
4
£49,499 17 10
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1892.
548.
568.
576.
638.
645.
650.
772.
785.
791.
798.
825.
831.
Januaby 11.
Immroremeats la holders for laoand— cent electric lamps.
Edwin Percival AUam, 8, Fountayne-road, Stoke Newing-
ton, London.
Januabt 12.
ItailiroTeaioiits la eleetric laeaadeeeent lamps. Godfrey
Bamberg, 17, Westonroad, Southeod-on-Sea.
A aew or improved automatio elootrio heat alarm. Hugh
Donald Fitzpatrick, 70, Wellington-street, Gla^ow. (The
Electric Heat Alarm Company, United States.) (Com-
plete specification.)
Zmprovtunsats la tslej^oale switohiag appltsnoes, Pamell
Rabbidge, 10, Southampton-buildings, London. (Ck>mplete
specification.)
Improvsmeats rslatiac to elootrio weldiag. Peter
Gendron, 45, Southampton-buildings, London. (Complete
speoification.)
January 13.
Improremeats la methods of operating altematiagHmrrent
eleetro-motors, and in apparatus therefor. Rankin
Kennedy, Camtyne Electric Works, Shettleston, Glasgow.
January 14.
Xleotrlo shade holder. James Clerk Swanne, 53, Albyn-
road, St. John's, London.
Zmprorements in regulating sookets or flztnres for inoan-
desoent elootrio lamps and other translating devloes,
and in methods of regnlating the flow of onrrent to
snoh lamps and other deriees. Elias Elkin Ries, 430,
S. Broadway, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A. (Date
applied for under Patents Act 1883, Section 103, July 6,
1891, bein^ dace of application in the United States). (Com-
plete specification.)
Improvements Inlaying and insulating eleotrieal wires.
J. B. Hamond, 1, Quality-court, London.
Improvements in eleotrieal oondnotors. Siemens Bros,
and Co., Limited, 28, Southampton-buildings, London.
(Messrs. Siemens and Halske, Germany). (Complete speci-
fication. )
January 15.
Improvements in elootrio oables. Wallace Fair weather,
62, St. Vincent-street, GUsgow. (Eugene Francis Phillips,
Unites States. ) (Complete specification. )
Improvements in fixed or movable eleotrieal switoh for
laeMiAMoeBt lamps. Clones Qunter, Leith, Scotland,
843. Improvements in and oonneeted with monnting inoan-
desoent lamps for safety purposes partieularly appll*
oahle to eleotrio miners' safisty lamps. Theophilus Coad,
1, Quality-court, Chancery-lane, London.
871. Improvements in eleotrio oables. Henry Harris Lake, 45,
Southampton- buildings, London. (David Brooks, jun..
United States.)
873. Improvements in eleotrio lighting, and for other like pur-
poses. Robert James Rae, 79, Valentine-road, Waltham-
Btow, Essex.
January 16.
!)25. Improvements in telephonio reeeivera Alexander Marr,
70, Market-street, Manchester.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1891.
Ueetrioal switehes. E. and W. Atkins. 8d.
Leolanehe oells. Rylands. 6d.
Xleetrio oondnits. Raworth and others. 6d.
Meohanioal telephones. Dunlap. 6d.
Oynamo-eleetrio machines. Kingdon. 8d.
Xleetrio alarm apparatus. Whitehead. 6d.
deotrio meters. Abel. (La Compagnie Anonyme Conti-
nentales pour la Fabrication dee Compteus h, Gaz et Autres
Appareils.) 8d.
Xleotrioal measnring instmments. Fell. (Weston.) 6d.
Are lamp. Hays. 6d.
Welding metals eleetrioally. Thompson. (Ck>ffin.) 6d.
Xleotrioal maohines. Harness. 8d.
20257. Xleetrio lamps. Thompson. (La Compagnie do I'lndus-
trie Electrique.) 6d.
1251.
3170.
3239.
3269.
3383.
3592.
14796.
15937.
16388.
19900.
20215.
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
Reading Xleetrio Supply Company, Limited.— Registered by
H. F. Kite, 11, Queen Victoria-street, E.C. (for S. Ck)llins,
Reading), with a capital of £75,000 in 15,000 shares of £5 each.
Object : to acquire, as a going concern, the business now carried
on bv the Laing, Wharton, and Down Construction Syndicate at
Reading, Berkshire, under the style of the Reading Electric Light
Depot, and generally to carry on the business of an electric supply
company in all its branches, as electricians and mechanical engi-
neers, the promotion and financing of companies, and the general
business oi a financial agency. l%e first subscribers are :
Shares.
J. Wharton, 30, Parliament-street, S.W 1
J. Ireland, 1.3, Minch-avenue, Harlesden 1
H. Lee, 27, Garfield-road, Lavender-hill 1
W. Jones, 87, Balfour-road, Highbury New-park, N 1
E. Carpenter, Johnson Villa, Gleneagle-road, Streatham 1
E. W. Piper, 37, Vernon-road, Bow, E 1
G. H. Wise, 14, SUverton-road, East Dulwich 1
Registered without special articles of association.
BUSINESS NOTES.
City and South London Railway. — The receipts for the week
ending 24th inst. were £811, against £743 in the corresponding
period of 1891, being an increase of £68. As compared with the
week ending Jan. 17th, the receipts for last week show a decrease
of £25.
Neweaatle Xleetrio Supply Company. — The annual general
meeting of this Company was held on Monday at Newcastle. The
report and balance-sheet were adopted, and a dividend at the rate
of 4 per cent, per annum was declared for the year ending 3l8t
December, 1891.
A Big Dividend. — At the annual meeting of Messrs. J. E. H.
Gordon and Co., Limited, electrical engineers and contractors, 11,
Pall-mall, held on 25th inst., a dividend of 30 per cent, was
declared on the paid-up capital of £50,000, and a balance of d^,535
was carried to reserve.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Brash Ck>
— Pref.
India Rubber, Outta Percha k Telegraph Co
House-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Eleotrio Oonstraotion
Westminster Electric
Liverpool Electric Supply <
Price
Paid.
Wednes
day
,^^
3i
—
2|
10
19i
5
5
—
91
5
H
8i
4
9
6
4
10
6i
—
u
5
5
3
2J
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 5, 1892. 121
NOTES.
BrindisL — ^A telephone exchange has just been opened
at this celebrated seaport town.
Badapasit. — ^The trandformer system only is to be used
for the electric lighting of Budapest.
Dalton (Laiios.). — The Dalton Local Board have
terminated their contract with the Gras Company.
Cleotro-Harmonio. — ^A smoking concert . is held to-
night (Friday) at the St. James's Restaurant, Begent-street.
World's Fair.— The Thomson-Houston Company will
spend half a million dollars on their exhibit at the World's
Fair.
Almanack. — ^We have received a handsome coloured
perpetual almanack from Messrs. Woodhouse and Rawson,
United.
Rapid Transit. — Pueblo, Colorado, has a complete
system of electric railways — length 22 miles — which cost
£120,000.
St. Petembnrg.— The electrical exhibition at St.
Petersburg, which opened last week, was attended by
Mr. Edison.
Ipswioh. — The Board of Trade have revoked the
electric lighting order, 1891, of Messrs. Laurence, Scott,
and Co., as asked by the promoters.
Xlootrio Traction. — ^A large combination is being
formed for the introduction of electric traction in Paris
and the other large towns of France.
ThomsNm-Hooston Lines. — The Thomson-Houston
Company has installed 63 new electric roads, says the N. Y.
Electrical Beview^ this year — rather quick work !
Royal Institution. — ^The Right Hon. Lord Bayleigh,
F.RS., will, on Saturday, February 13, begin a course of
six lectures on ** Matter : at Rest and in Motion."
Walton-on-Nasc. — The Walton-on-Naze Sanitary
Committee have the question of the purchase of gas works
or other settlement of the lighting question before them.
Royal Institution. — ^Prof . Fleming will give the third
of his lectures on '* The Induction Coil and the Trans-
former " on Saturday, at 3 p.m., at the Royal Institution.
Train lAglMng, — The Simplon Railway Company
have arranged to light 50 of their carriages by electric
light, the current to be obtained from Huber accumulators.
Slcctric Tcrminoloffy. — ^The last electrical term, says
Industries, is ''hindrance." It amusingly suggests that
perhaps hindrance, like other electric terms, is, in reality,
a velocity !
Sofia. — ^The Mayor of Sofia has decided that the
tenders for canalisation of Sofia are to bear mottoes or
devices only, and the time for sending in has been extended
to March 3.
Tannton. — Local opinion as regards the proposed
purchase of the town seems to be in favour of letting the
Taunton electric works continue yet awhile, and further
demonstrate their success.
Qas Bngincs.. — ^The next meeting of the Junior
Engineering Society will be held on Friday, February 12,
at the Westminster Palace Hotel, at 8 p.m., when a paper
will be read on " The Gas Engine," by Mr. K O. Walker.
Italian Tdophonc Unca — A telephone line, the
first that unites two Italian cities, has been opened at
Milan, establishing telephonic communication between that
city and Pavia. It is more than 30 miles long, and acts
perfectly.
Bath. — ^During three months the lamps at Bath were
out 244 hours, and the amount at Ij^. an honr,£l. lOs. 6d.,
was deducted from the public lighting bill. The oom-
mittee have sanctioned the expenditure of £28 in testing
instruments.
Bormondsoy. — At the meeting of the Bermondsey
Vestry last week, the Greneral Purposes Committee reported
that they had instructed the surveyor to obtain terms for
lighting the streets from March 25th next^ which course
was approved.
Physioal Sooioty. — ^At the Science Schools, South
Kensington, Uniay (Friday), at 5 p.m., Prof. O. F.
FitzG^rald will read a paper before the Physical Society
on '* The Driving of Electromagnetic Vibrations by Electro-
magnetic and Electrostatic Engines."
Antworp. — ^The contract recently concluded by the
Antwerp Corporation with MM. Moris et Von Bysselberghe
for public lighting on the '' hydro-electric " system, requires
a guarantee fund of £40,000. The light is to be supplied
at less than the present price of gas.
nanohostor. — The Manchester shopkeepers are
becoming anxious to get the light at once, and Mr. BrookSi
at the last City Council meeting, had to assure a ques-
tioner that no time was being lost, some of the oontraets
being already in hand, including those for engines and
boilers.
Slioroditoh.— The Shoreditch Board of Guardians have
appointed a committee of five members to act with Mr.
Smith, their architect, who has had several establishments
fitted with electric light under his charge, to visit these
installations and report upon the best scheme for lighting
the workhouse.
loo CamivaL — ^At the Theatre Scribe, Turin, on
Wednesday, a white ball was given, the whole house being
decorated with wintry scenery — ice, snow, glaciers, and all
the picturesque accompaniments of the season. Moonlight
was imitated by the electric light All the ladies were
dressed in pure white.
Utilisation of Wator Powor. — The Mulhouse
Industrial Society, Alsace, have offered a premium of £100
for the best scheme of utilising natural water power,
specially applicable to the needs of Upper Alsace. Projects,
accompanied by sealed envelope containing namei, most
reach the society by May 15th.
Chioago Applioations. — Intending exhibitors must
not tarry if they mean to obtain space at the World's Fair.
The date fixed for receipt of applications is the 29th of
February, and after that date applications can only be
received subject to space being avulable. The London
oflSce is at the Society of Arts, Adelphi.
Institution. — On Thursday next, Feb. 11, a paper will
be given before the Institution of Electrical Engineers by
Alexander Siemens, vice president, on " Some Experimental
Investigations of Alternate Currents." The discussion on
the above and Mr. Preece's paper on the " Specification of
Conductors," will be held on the same evening.
Donbish*— The Town Council of Denbigh have had the
question of the purchase of the gas works brought before
ihem. Mr. Howel Gee thinks Denbigh well situated for
lighting by electricity, and it is to be hoped he will be
supported. The Mayor is to draw up a report of the cost
of Uie scheme for public control of the lighting.
Towkosbnry. — The Tewkesbury Urban Authority
have before them the question of applying for a provisional
order for the supply of electric light, and the clerk has
been instructed to make euq|avdta« T^«c%^^sq^\s^ ^^^
122
THE ELECTRICAL ENGIKEER, FEBRUARY 5, 1892.
f
possibility of utilising the power of the Avon or Severn,
we fancy, for generating o! light for Tewkesbury.
EJeetrjo Welding.— Mr. Coffin, of Detroit, proposes
to weld electrieally by a combination of arc and incandes-
cent systems, first muking his joint hot by contact with a
conductor, and simultaneously springing an arc between
the said conductor and another near the point of contact,
welding the metal when at the desired temperature,
A New Alternator.— The Helios Company have
recently patented a peculiar dynamo, having a long
armature and two sets of field magnets. At one end of
the armature these are placed above and below, and at the
other end at the sides. The dynamo is apparently to be
used for generating alternating currents varying in phase
for transmission of power.
Portsmouth, — The Portsmouth Town Council on
Tuesday revoked its previous decision to light the town
with electricity on the low-tension principle, and adopted
a new high-tension scheme, estimated to cost £38,000. An
amendment for deferring the scheme until the (|uestion of
using tidal power for machinery was considered was lost
by the Mayor's casting vote.
Llanelly. — At the meeting of the Llanelly Local Board
held on Monday, the question of electric lighting of the
town arose out of the minutes of the previous meeting. It
was remarked that if the Board intended to take advantage
of the provisional order, something should be done at
once. The clerk staled that the Board had already deter-
mined to advertise for tenders.
Cork Tramways. — The Cork Corporation have
adopted the recommendation of the Standing Committee
that, subject to plans being approved and other conditions
deemed advisable, the Corporation give general approval
of the proposed scheme of street tramways. We believe
there is some idea of running these trams by electric
traction if suitable arrangements can be made.
Society of Arts.— The third of Prof. Forbes'a Cantor
lecture, on "Electrical Distribution," will take place on
Monday next, at 8 p.m., at the Society of Arts, when the
following will be dealt with : Transmission and distribution
of electricity derived from lighting circuits ; effect on load
factor ; separate circuits for power ; distribution for street
and other railways ; utilisation of water power by electric
transmission to a distance,
Pontypridd. — The proposal is before the Pontypridd
Local Board to jiurchase the gas works, the gas company
being willing to sell or extend their works as the case may
be. The Pontypridd Electric Lighting Comjrany have
offered to tight the centre of the town by electric light, and
the clerk was instructed to obtain particulars of the
success or otherwise of Taunton. We hope the result will
be a central station for Pontypridd.
Schansohififf Batteries. — A correspond etit writes
that, instead of coating 7s. 6d. per unit, these batteries can
produce electrical energy at 2s. 6d. per unit, " and hopes
with careful experiment and better management " to reduce
the price still further. The same correspondent points out
that the proposed capital of £50,000 consists of £5,000
cash and £45,000 [taper — ^tbe latter going to the vendor,
who receives nothing till 10 per cent, has been paid on the
jES.OOO.
Hllk Ivory. — According to a recent note in the Chemical
Trades Journal, it appears that a substance termed
" lactitis," much like ivory, is now made out of milk.
Curds are taken, mixed with borax and a mineral salt, such
u sugar of lead, blue vitriol or other, and pressed with
great force. The resulting mass is hard and resisting,
empaWe of replacing ivory, celluloid, and eboaJte, though
being an animal substance its electrical resistance will
probably be low.
Cyclometer.— Ean some's cyclometer for showing the
variations of speed in the motors used for electric lighting
is made by Messrs, Manlove, Alliott, and Co., of Notting-
ham. It is capable of representing the fluctuations of speed
during a single revolution of the motor-shaft, and hence of
indicating whether or not the flywheel is heavy enough.
The intervals of time are measured by a vibrating tuning'
fork, which by means of a stylus describes a wavy line on
a revolving barrel of smoked paper.
Sea Telephone. — The question of telephoning between
ships at sea is evidently one which is exercising the brains
of inventors. We mentioned Edison's plan last week, and
we notice that an elaborate patent has been taken out by
Ernst Huber and Fred. J. Kneupor, of New York, for an
instrument similar in its aims, but which, apparently by — i
means of " sound -interceptors," is to register sound vibra- /
tions transmitted through the water, part of the apparatus
dipping into the sea below the ship.
Sprinefleld (Essex). ^A public meeting was held
recently with reference to the public lighting oE Springfield
by electricity, and Mr. T. H. Dennis undertook to see
Messrs. Crompton and Co. with a view to obtaining an
installation. Messrs. Crompton wrote that they could not
undertake the public lighting alone, but if there were
private consumers they might make an offer. A canvass
has been made, and it is thought there is a fair chance of
the light being adopted. Messrs. Christy and Norris have
also made a canvass.
Life Belt Cushions.— The " Combinare " cushions,
made by Mr. T. Stoward, at 32, Gray'a-inn-road, are worth
attention by all interested in naval matters. They are
suitable for boats and ships of every description, and in
case of need form most efficient life buoys. They are
lighter than cork, and impervious to damp. They are being
taken up largely by the British and also foreign Govern-
ments, and we understand that the General Electric Trac-
tion Company will replace all their boat cushions with this
" Combinare " cushion.
New Insulating Material. — A novel and permanent
insulating material for electric wires and cables forms the
subject of a patent by Mr. Thomson Griffiths, F.C.S., of
Dashwood House, City, the well-known authority on
pigments. By this invention, it is said, a saving is effected
of about 50 per cent, over those in use. It i^ stated to be
not only of a most durable and permanent character, but
that the insulating power of the cables and wires is
greatly increased, while the mode of application is
extremely simple and inexpensive.
Liverpool. — A numerously signed memorial was read
at the Liverpool City Council requesting the Council to
give their consent to the application by the Liverpool
Electric Supply Company for a provisional order whereby
the company would be bound to reduce the price to 8d.
per unit, Mr. Hornby stated that the Council were deter-
mined to oppose the application, as under the 1889 orde
they had power to buy up the most important part of the
undertaking in 19 years, and they would not give up this
power without some considerable concession.
Camberwell.— At the last meeting of the Oamberwell
Veati'y the General Purposes Committee, through Mr,
Wallace, reported the receipt of a letter from the engiueer
of the Camberwell and Islington Electric Light and Power
Supply, Limited, formally acquainting the Vestry with the
information that their Bill passed both Houses of Parlia-
ment last session, and received the Royal assent; also that
the company had made the deposit of £2,000 required by
the Beard of Trade, iind that it waa anticipated Ibat the
TflE ELECTRICAL EliGINEER, ^EBSUART 5, 1892.
123
now lystem of lighting would bo inaugurated early this
year.
Cable to Londy Island.— Public attention has lately
been called to Lundy by H.M.S. "Banterer," and much
aurprise bu been expresaed that a much-frequented harbour
of refuge should have no telegraphic communication. A
cable was laid in 1884, but did not receive aufBcient
support, and the cable waa sold to Mr. Bogera, the maker
of it, who has removed it to London. If a new cable ia
laid, it is thought better to lay it to Braunton, seven miles
extra, when the Chamber of Commerce would subsidise
the company. The old cable is still available, and could
bo ralaid at small cost.
Hastings Company.— At the annual meeting of the
Hastings and St. Leonard Electric Light Company, recently
held, the chairman said the reapectable dividend of 7^ per
cent, was declared in the report, this leaving a balance of
£330 over. He reminded them that last year the directors
had not only given their aervices, but made themaelvea
reaponsible for debta. He thought £200 was not too much
to be given to the directors, leaving £120 to be carried
forward. He pasaed a word of aympathy for nervous
shareholders who had aold their £10 ahares for 25s. after
what was said in the pai>erB. The report and the chair-
man's recommendation was adopted.
■lootrio Lifts for Railwajs.— The uae of electric
motors for lifts and drawbridges has achieved sufficient
success for there to be any doubt of the poesibility of their
use in moving large weights when so required. In the
City and South London Railway, as will be remembered,
the lifta which carry the passengers to and from the ground
level are hydraulic lifta, but we have reason to believe that
on the newer ventures, such as the Central London electric
road, electric lifu will be used. This will, of course, do
away with the neceeaity for separate generating plant and
distributing mains, and will simplify the station arrange-
ments considerably.
Xleotrioity from Wind Power.— At the last meeting
of the Eoyal Scottiah Society of Aria, Prof. Blyth, of the
Anderaon College, Glasgow, read a paper on the " Utilisa-
tion of Wind Power for the Generation of Electric Light."
After alluding to his previous experimenta, Prof. Blyth
stated that last summer he had used a machine on the
principle of the Kobiuaon anemometer, with hollow cups,
rotating horizontally. It worked satisfactorily, and in a
fair wind gave out 4 e.h.p. Even in a gale it ran aatiafac-
torily. Prof. Blyth is an ardent supporter of the use of
wind power for electric light, and his example should
stimulate others to follow his and Mr. C. F. Brush's
example. It will be remembered that Mr. Brush baa a
" wind turbine" in bis garden for supplying hia electric light.
Bndapest Eleotrlo Tramway. — The success that has
attended the introduction of electric traction into the
streets of Budapest ia a good augury for the extension of
eleetric railways in Europe. It will be remembered that
this line is upon the open-slotted conduit system, more
particularly advocated in this country by Mr. Edward
Hanvilte. The Budapest railway was equipped by Messra.
Siemens and Halske, who deserve great credit for the
anooesa achieved. The mileage has lately been increased
from 5^ to seven miles, most of which is double track. They
now have 62 cars in use, and the mileage last year attained
24,000 miles, double that of the previous year. The
power of the generating station now amounta to 700 h.p.
The number of passengers carried last year ia given aa
8,619.316, as against 4,459,334 in 1890.
Ohiswlok. — At the last meeting of the Chiawick Local
Boud, Mr. Harry Smith moved, in accordance with notice.
" That fnstructions be given to the surveyor to enquire and
report as to the persona desiring a supply of electric light
in this pariab." Mr. Smith pointed out that there was a
company willing to introduce electric light into the parish
providing they could obtain a sufficient number of con-
Bumers, He thought that a majority of the inhabitants
were in favour of the electric light, and he would propose
that a memorial be drafted and the ratepayers canvassed.
Mr. Adaroson sngneated that they might draft a circular
and ask the ratepayers to aign it. In reply to the chair-
man, Mr. Smith said that the cost of the electric light would
be about one-third more than that of gas. The arrange-
ments for canvassing were left in the hands of the clerk.
Ventilation and UBTbtlnsT' — Besides electrical con-
tractors and the householder himself there is one class of
professional man to whom a good knowledge of the advan-
tages of electric light is worth money — and this is the
sanitary engineers, who have often to advise upon the
internal arrangements of high-class dwellings. We are
pleased to see that at one of the lectures for sanitary
officers held at the Parkes Museum in connection with the
Sanitary Institute, the question of electric lighting was
dealt with by Sir W. Douglas Galton, his subject being
ventilation, warming, and lighting. After describing
methods for chan^ng the air in rooms, the question of
impurities from illuminante was gone into, oil being
recommended as preferable to gas both as regards products
of combustion and amount of heat. But the only really
hygienic light waa the electric light. Sanitary engineers
are rapidly recognising this fact, and Sir Douglas Oalton'a
lecture will probably turn still greater attention to the
necessity of considering hygienics as well as light in house-
bold illuminants.
Uverpool Eleotrio Football CInb. — The above
football club held their second annual dinner at The E^le
Restaurant, Liverpool, on Saturday last Tlie dinner waa
preceded in the afternoon by a football match between
the married and single members of the club, which the
benedicts won by four goals to one, reversing last year's
verdict, when the single men won by five goals to nil.
In the evening the party, numbering about 80, included
Mr. A, B. Holmes, managing engineer of the Liverpool
Electric Supply Company, Limited, Mr. B. H. Cotlius,
secretary, Mr. A. Clough, worka manager, and Mr. Naftel,
chief electrician. The dinner was followed by a miacel-
laneoua entertainment. The proceedings commenced with
a pianoforte solo and banjo aong, after which Mr. Collins
proposed tbo toast of " Success to the Liverpool Electric
Supply Company, Limited," to which Mr. Holmes responded,
referring to the progress of the company since its forma-
tion and its present satisfactory condition. Songs and
instrumental music interspersed with toasts occupied the
remainder of the evening, which waa brought to a close by
the singing of " Auld Lang Syne " and " God save the
Queen."
Slms-Bdison Torpedo. — On Wednesday an official
trial of the Sims-Edison torpedo by the military authorities
took place at Portsmouth before the Duke of Connaugbt,
Major-Gen eral Geary, and others, who went out to the
" Drudge," a steam vessel lent for the purpose of the test
by the Elswick Company. Mr. Sims, Captain Hamilton,
and Major Palliser, directors of the Sims-Edison Company, ^
attended. The torpedo, it will be remembered, ia driven
and controlled by two electric wires from a dynamo,
the body is submerged, and two flagstafis show the
direcUon of movement. In the test, the torpedo
was first sent by Mr. Sims at right angles to the
ship at a speed of about 10 knots. When three-
quarters of a mile oB the torpedo crossed the bows
124 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, fEBRlfAtlY S, 189^.
and deecribed a semi-circle, at a speed of 16 or 17
knots against tide, and in a choppy sea, in which it was
frequently submerged. Having run out 7,000ft. of wire
inside the torpedo and another 4,000ft. on board the ship,
it was brought to a dead stop as if for exploding. The
advantages claimed are that the Sims-Edison torpedo is
controllable at any distance within its range, without the
necessity for other fixed plant than switches and dynamo —
the ordinary lighting dynamos of some of the large battle-
ships giving ample current
Aston Batlifl.— The Baths Committee of the Aston
Local Board report that they have had under consideration
the question of the lighting of the public baths. They are
advised that there will be suflScient engine power to
generate electricity for the public baths, and also for the
Public Buildings. The committee have obtained tenders
for the electrical installation of the public baths and also
the Public Buildings. In discussing these tenders, the
committee state that, notwithstanding the initial outlay
for dynamos, storage batteries, cables, wiring, fittings,
etc, the electric light can be substituted for gas and a
saving effected of £74 per annum, which at 4 per cent per
annum, the interest on a capital sum of £1,850, would be
a clear saving as compared with the cost of lighting by gas.
From this amount some allowance should be made for
depreciation of plant and towards the cost of attendants'
wages, etc., but at present it is impossible to accurately fix
this amount. In the circumstances the committee unani-
mously recommend the Board to adopt the electric light
for the public baths, and to substitute this mode of lighting
for gas at the Public Buildings, and that the tender of
Messrs. Fowler, Lancaster, and Co. for the execution of the
work, at the sum of £1,594, with the sum of £30 per
annum for the maintenance for a period of five years, be
accepted.
Sleotrto lAght at the World's Fair.— Some 50
separate contracts are to be let for the electric lighting of
the Chicago Exposition buildings and grounds. In all
there will be used, according to present plans, approxi-
mately 127,000 electric lamps, of which 7,000 will be arc,
of 2,000 c.p. each, and 120,000 incandescent 16-c.p. lamps.
To run the plant, 22,000 h.p. will be required. By the
awarding of separate contracts for the lighting of each of
the buildings and of different sections of the grounds,
all electric firms, whether large or small, have an
opportunity to participate and to show what they
can do, and at the same time a variety in illumination will
be effected. One of the distinctive features of the elec-
trical display will be that made in the main basin.
Special attention will be given to the illumination of
this basin, and it will be encircled by 1,650 incandescent
lamps. The lamps are to be 2ft apart and 3ft above
the surface of the water of the basin. In the great
Manufactures Building alone there will be 33,000
lights. The plans prepared by the electrical experts call
for ten times the capacity of all the plants used at the
Paris Exposition. The World's Fair directors will spend
l,000,000dols., and perhaps more, for these electric plants.
Exhibitors will not be required to pay anything for light,
except in cases where they call for more lamps than are
furnished by the construction department. In that event,
they will be furnished additional lamps at actual cost
Electric power will be conveyed over the grounds in a
system of underground conduits. Some of the wires will,
however, be hung from the structure of the elevated
railroad.
•
London FroTisdonal Ordon.— The Highways Com-
mittee of the London County Council report that they have
had before them seven provisional orders for which appli-
cation has been made by the Board of Trade. These are
as follows : 1. County of London, North (parishes of Isling-
ton, Clerkenwell, and St Luke; Holborn district). 2.
County of London, SpUth (parishes of Lambeth and St
Gteorge-the-Martyr ; Wandsworth district). 3. East London
(Hackney district). 4. North London (Hackney district ;
parishes of St Luke and Clerkenwell). 5. St Mary, Isling-
ton (parish of Islington). 6. South London (St Olave's
and St Saviour's districts; parishes of St Oeorge-the-
Martyr and Newington). 7. West London (parishes of
Hammersmith, Fulham, and Battersea ; and part of Wands-
worth district). The committee have submitted certain
amendments to the Board of Trade, and informed the
Board that where powers are sought over the same area by
the local authority and by a company, their opinion
is that the former should be preferred. They have
also considered a model order (form No. IV.), for-
warded by the Board of Trade for the Council's observa-
tions, for use in cases where the local authorities are the
undertakers. There are four of these orders applied for
this session — viz., Hampstead, Lambeth, Shoreditch, and
Whitechapel district orders. They have directed that
certain amendments, which they think necessary in order
to make the form of order correspond with previous legisla-
tion, shall be submitted to the Board of Trade, these
amendments relating principally to the insertion of clauses
relative to the keeping of separate accounts, removal of
existing overhead lines, inspectors' fees, protection of the
Council's works, regulation of price, and so forth. They
also report that formal notice of the revocation of the
Wandsworth district order has been received from the
Board of Trade.
Priority and Cost. — ^The following interesting letter
written by Mr. John Sellon to Lighimng, in answer to a
question as to the first house lighted by electricity, deals
suggestively with the cost of the electric light, and is
worthy of extended quotation by electric light promoters :
" I commenced wiring my house early in 1881 ; at Easter
of that year my electric light shed was completed, and I
was soon afterwards running my lights with a Schuckert
dynamo, which I had by me for experimental work — ^later
on replaced by a Brush. The wiring was carried out
entirely under my own supervision, and as suitable fittings
for the light and even good switches and other details were
then unknown or unprocurable, I had air mine made by
workmen of my own, the ornamental glass work being also
specially made for me after my own designs. As they
were then — 1881 — so in the main they are now, 120 lamps
throughout the house from top to bottom, every room and
every outhouse being so lighted. I naturally experienced
at first some troubles and annoyances, chiefly from
flickering of the light, and the necessity of running the
dynamo all the time that any light was needed. It was
these inconveniences which induced me to turn my atten-
tion to secondary batteries, my first patent for which was
taken out in September of that year. After some crude
attempts, I at last, quite early in 1882, was running my
entire system with accumulators, almost as perfectly as it
runs tonday. I have made no material alteration or addi-
tion since that time, meanwhile my lighting has been
entirely free from interruption, beyond a few hours when
altering or changing the accumulators, and a short stoppage
or two through failure of the supply of gas for my engine.
The saving to me directly and (but of course chiefly)
indirectly, I consider to have been close upon £100 a year
throughout the decade, during which the ceilings and
decorations of all the principal rooms have not been even
touched up, and they at present shows no signs of wanting
it, while the comfort enjoyed has been beyond estimate."
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 6, 1892.
126
OUR PORTBATTS.
■■SOB, W. B., bora in 1858, is a native of Aberdeen,
in which town be received his early education, but after
three yean' apprenticeship in the engineering works of
Measn. McKiiinon and Co., attended the Royal School of
Mines lectures in engineering. After more practical
engineering experience at the Thames Iron Works, Mr.
Eeson attended Prof. Ayrton's lectures at Finsbury, when
his introduction to the electrical world may be said to have
taken place. In 1883 he went to Messrs. Paterson and
Cooper as electrician, and soon after became manager.
WiUi this firm he still remains, and it is not too much to
say that the extension of the firm's work in various direc-
tions is due entirely to the energy and ability of the
manager. Mr. Esson has a three-sided character — he is a
worker, a thinker, and a good companion. We hardly
know what more can be required of a man. His contribu-
tions to the technical journals and to the Institution's
Proceedings are always of a very practical nature, and :
mark him as one of the leaders in the profession. That he
is ever ready to help beginners is well shown by the work
he has done for the Old Students, of which society he was
rfr«lected president for the current year.
B«kor, ffir B., is known better in connection with the
Forth Bridge and other works of a similar character rather
than as an electrical engineer, although he is one of the
recent elections upon the rolls of the Institution of Elec-
trical Engineers. Sir B. Baker's early training was that of
a mechanical engineer, with a subsequent extensive expe-
rience in the work of a civil engineer. After his arrival in
London he entered Sir John Fowler's office, and gradually
took a more and more active part in the many engineering
works carried out from this office, including, amongst others,
the Metropolitan Railway. But, as we say, it is his con-
nection with the Forth Bridge that looms moat conspicuously
before us. Of this great work we have no occasion to speak,
but it may be noticed that Sir B. Baker called electricity to
his aid in carrying out the work. He is a member of most
of the great engineering societies, and has largely contri-
buted to the literature of this subject.
BlnnvuiBrer, Onstev. Born in Bavaria iu 1856, and
received his education at the Potyteknikum, Augsburg. He
has resided in England since 1873, becoming naturalised iu
1679, when he began business as electrical engineer and
manufacturer of electrical apparatus. The factories and
boaineas establishments which he has conducted since that
Esriod have experienced a rapid growth and extension, in
eaping with the increase of electric lighting and tele-
Iconic business in general. At Mr. Binswanger's first
factory at Homerton the number of hands employed
was about 10 ; his works at Ohapel street, Manchester,
now employ from 500 to 600 workpeople, and the
employes engaged in electric work at tho head office in
Queen Victoria-street, and the branch warehouse in Great
Saint Thomas Apostle, at Gtlasgow, Melbourne, and Cape
Town number about 200. To Mr. Binswanger's eSorts
and business and technical capacity are due a number of
improvements in the use of electricity for lighting, motive
power, and heating. We will mention only his early intro-
duction of electricity meters, his improvements of electric
fittings, such as switches, roses, connectors, etc., his intro-
duction of electric motors for domestic purposes, and his
system of electric heating by the process of embedding
platino -iridium resistances in layers of enamel. Mr.
Binswanger's attention was also given at an early date
to telephony and electric signalling, and the position which
his boose holds in this branch of applied electricity testifies
to the success which has attended his efforts. Mr. Binawanger
has issued a great many effectively illustrated catalogues,
mainly with the object of popularising electric lighting and
telephony, and throughout his career iu connection with
elecUical enterprises his main effort has been to induce the
general trade of ensineers, gas engineers, plumbers, etc., to
introduce electric lighting, and thus make it known and
popular in districts and places where the establishment of
A purely electrical enterprise could not have been a
pecuniary success. Mr. Binswanger is principal proprietor
leral Electric Company
He is a member of the Institution of Electrical Engineers,
Fellow of the Society of Arts, and on the Council of the
Electrical Section of the London Chamber of Commerce.
Oriadle, O. A. Educated privately, and afterwards
at Oxford. In 1876 entered the School of Telegraphy
and went through a course, and subsequently visited
India aud America, returning 1680. In the same year
entered the service of the Anglo-American Brush
Company, passing through the shops, and carried out
aeveiat installations for them, finally taking charge
of the City of London experimental lighting (Brush
section) 1881. In 1881 was appointed chief electrical
engineer to the Eastern Electric Light and Power
Company, Limited, and proceeded to Egypt, where he
carried out several installations until compelled to
leave at outbreak of Anglo-Egyptian War. Returned
to England, and for several mouths was engaged
experimenting for Eastern Electric Light and Power
and Indian and Oriental Storage and Electrical Works
Companies, Limited, conjointly, chiefly on storage
batteries, then proceeded to Bombay to take charge
of the Eastern Electric Light Company's operations in
India, where he carried out numerous installations. Re-
turned to England in 1884, and was appointed manager to
Belfast Electrical Appliances Company, erecting for them
various important installations in Ireland. In 1886
entered into private practice in London, and in 1889 was
appointed resident engineer for Messrs. Mather and Piatt
on the City and South London Railway undertaking. He
now remains in Messrs. Mather and Piatt's service.
Wallace, R. W. Bom in 1854. Educated privately.
Graduated at London University : is a well-known
barrister, who was called to the bar in 1684. Director of
Kensington and Knightabridge Electric Light Company,
and of the Westminster Company. Has been counsel in
many important engineering and chemical coses, such as
Kirk and Randall v. East and West India Docks, Nettle-
folds c. American Screw Company, Rawes v. Chance
Bros, (alkali recovery) ; in electrical matters mostly for
electrical companies ; in Edison feeder patents ; at present
in Lane Fox v. Kensington Company, and Hopkinaon c. St.
James's Company. Author of a work on patent law.
Associate member of the Council of Electrical Engineers.
Before called to the bar he was inventor of many important
processes in the manufacture of chemical products, and in
processes for gas purification. He was engaged as counsel
for a large number of electrical companies before Major
Marindin, when London was divided up for electrical pur-
poses. He is working at present with the Duke of Marl-
borough iu improving the telephone service in the United
Kingdom, a work which it is devoutly hoped will be suc-
cessful, for there is great need of auch improvement.
CRYSTAL PALACE.
sod managing director of the Genera
The Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress ara to visit the
Crystal Palace to-morrow, and the Exhibition, which baa
already been opened without ceremony, will have addi-
tional attention called to it in the minds of the public after
this public function. Many persons have put off paying
even a preliminary visit, hearing that the exhibits were not
ready, but the whole Exhibition is now practically in shape.
Almost all the stands are complete, and those that are not
only requiring a last few finishing touches ; the machinery
is nearly all in running order, and what may be termed the
side shows — such as Messrs. Siemens's model theatre, the
high-tension experiments, the drills, electric lifte, electric
cooking, the Edison-Swan screen, and so forth — are now or
will be in working order on Saturday, and regularly from
the beginning of next week.
Messrs. Cromptcn and Co., have had their crane
going this week — travelling, slewing, hoisting — the current
being supplied from their own dynamos, loner rails have
been laid, covered with thick strip copper, which conduct
the current. It is necessary, by the way, to remark that
the speed of hoisting of this crane is two tons 80ft per
minute — and not per second, as given in a former notice.
1S6 THS ELECfTRtCAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 5, 189^.
wbich Tould be at the rate of nearly a mile a minute. In I
action this crane will be a constant centre of attraction,
demonstrating the posBibilitiea of the use of electric power.
When the incandescent lamp came into vogue there wae ,
much discussion as to what was the proper class of fitting
to adopt for it. The lamp was so dainty, delicate, and
fairylike, that it made the heavy coarse gas fittings look
grotesque. Evidently designers must begin over again.
Among thoee who have res(^utelf set themaslveB to forget
all about gas and its fittings are UesBrs. Osleri of 100,
Oxford-street, W., who have struck out quite a new line, j
They have gone to Dame Nature for s^vice, and have
adopted one of her most graceful productions as their I
model — we refer to the fuschia. Not only so, but discard- '
standards in cut glass, brass, and china, the workmanship
of which is sure to be admired. The stand is handsomely
draped with curtains. Between the columns which sup-
port the roof at the front of the stand are two
Grecian figures, one on either side, carrying lamps with
specially-designed shades. The figures are of Worcester
porcelain, and are remarkably grac^ul. On a table in one
comer are some flower-stands of special design in cut glass,
fitted with one or more lamps. Ladies should be ame to
produce some very pretty effects with these stands. Another
standard for tables has a centre-piece for holding the lamp,
while below are receptacles for flowers. In the centre of the
apartment is a table sjMciallf decorated and arranged to
show the simple way in which the electric light can be used
ing metal they have adopted cut glass as the material of
their fittings. As to the effect of this departure our
readers can judge for themselves by paying a visit to
Messrs. Oslei^s stand (No. 5), which is certainly in its way
one of the attractions of the Exhibition.
The structure has been designed in the Kastem style, the
top being surmounted by domes, and supported by pillars.
The decorations are in keeping with the structure, and
altogether the firm make an attractive show. The centre
dome is lighted by a very handsome 26-Iight electrolier in
cut glass and polished brass. A draped mirror surmounts
a mantel-piece, on which stand Grecian figures in Worcester
porcelain, which have been specially designed by the Boyal
Worcester Porcelain Company. Here also are vases in cut
glass having incandescent lamps inside, and giving a very
pretty effect. In various parts of the stand are electric
at tbe CryiUI ralu>
for this purposa The floor is covered with Eastern
matting, over which are laid Oriental rugs. The sketch
which we publish herewith will give those of our readers
who have not seen the Exhibition a very good idea of
Messrs. Osier's stand.
Tbe General Eleotrio Companr have a peculiarly
original stand to themselves in the centre of the South
Nave. Its tall pyramid, or Cleopatra's needle, with four sides
made of thousands of switches, cut-outs, ceiling roses, and
wall sockets, can be seen from afar down the transept, and
fitly symbolises the company's position as wholesale makers
of these most necessary fittings for house adornment by
electric light. Large mirrors give an imposing appearance to
the base of this stand, around which are crowded a plethora
of electrical apparatus, instruments, telephones, batteries,
bells in variety too numerous to mention. Standing around
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 5, 1892. 127
are a number of interesting examples of the use of small
electric motors for easing household labour, and boot-
blacking machines, knife-cleaning machines, churns, fans,
pumps, and so forth, vill all be shown working. But
perhaps the most interesbing feature of thia stand will be
fche electno cooking and beating apparatus. Tbe Lady
Mayoress is to be presented with a steaming hot pancake
baked by electricity, with the apparatus made by this com-
pany, and the Lord Mayor may have his hat ironed by an
electric heater if he so desires. Flexible wires connected
to a wall socket serve to carry all the current that is needed.
In the case of the electric cooker this current is about
tbreeamperes at 100 volte, and this is sufficient to heat three
hot-plates for baking or grilling. Electric foot warmers and
car or room heaters will also be shown, andit may confidently
be expected that the continual demonstration of the clean-
lineia, simplicity, and ease of application of electric beating
at the Exhibition will cause many persons to have it
adapted to their houses along with the electric light
avoid alt this, and show at one glance tbe direction a veiael
carrying it is steering. It is a simple but highly-ingenioiia
arrangement. A strong lamp is placed inside a glass case,
which is shaped somewhat like a small bath placed edgeways,
that is, having the front circular plate smaller than the
back one, the sides being of opal glass. The front and back
plates are opaque, but a lai^e cross is left on the baek plate.
The effect of tnis simple case for the lamp is, that when
the ship is coming straight end on towards a person, a
round ring of light is seen ; if the vessel eteers to port or
starboard a crescent of white light is seen, the boms pointing
in the direction that the vessel ii approachir^. When
going direct away the cross is seen, and in other
positions, combinations of ring, crescent, rectangle, and
cross are given, visible by the eye at a mile away, and with
a glaas at two miles^iving an immediate indication of the
vessel's direction. When it is remembered that nearly a
third of the casualties at sea occur from collisions, that
this is the captain's greateet dread, that tbe sudden appear-
In the very centre of tbe Palace, in front of the orchestra,
a wide and deep space in the floor has been fitted up
ae a beautiful undeif^uud grotto with fountain. This
is to be lighted by electric light by UoBsra. Lidnr,
WhArton, »nd Down, and the fairy lampe will
enticingly glitter and glisten amongst sparkling showers
on rock and ferns springing up from the centre of the
floor.
Thereare two novelties which we noticed at our lost visit to
the Exhibition which are worthy of particular attention. One
of these is a new lampfor the better direction of ships' courses
atsea,and specially for the avoidanceof collision — termed the
Crescent Course Indicator, the invention of Ur. J. Fletoher
WUflS, of Lloyd's, Royal Exchange, and Crescent Works,
South Croydon. As is known, the ship's lights usually consist
of a red and green light. Thia arrangement, although until
the present nothing better has been suggested, suffers from
two defects : First, the green light does not always show as
hr as the red from difference in penetrating power ; and
secondly, and more important, the captein on another
Tesael cannot be certein of the dwettion in which the ship is
gtnng until one of the two lights disappears, sometimes too
£i^ to avert a catastrophe. The Crescent indicator is to
anoe of lighte in a tog do not now enable a oaptaiu to
give his orders without a few moment's delay to aacer-
tain the atrange veesel's direction — momente that mean all
the difl'erence between a collision or otherwise ; when it is
stated that many companiea only ensure their vessels against
collision, taking all other risks tnemselvea, itcan beseen what
an advantage a thoroughly distinctive l^ht would become.
This light can be seen at the Weymeraoh battery stand,
and baa received considerable attention from naval men.
It is stated that seamen can tell the alteration of a ein^e
spoke of the wheel by the change in the look of the crescent
or ring. It is proposed to make all lamps the same
Btendard size, so that the size of the light gives some
indication of the distance of the ship.
"The other novelty we mentioned aa worth attenUon is a
new speed indicator — the " Showapeed " — invented by
Mr. James Murdoob Ifapier, M.I.C.K, and shown by
Uessra. D. Napier aad Son. Vine-street, Lambeth.
It is one of the simplest and most accurate and effective
speed indicators we remember to have seen. All it
consiste of is a revolving drum filled with mercury,
driven by a strap and worm gearing, tbe drum having
an uprignt glass tube, in which ia placed an ivory
128 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRPARY 5, 1892.
float having a black mark upon it. The rotation by
centrifugal action forcei the mercury up the tube in pro-
portion to the apeed, which is read off on a phiinly visible
scale attached to the tube. The iudic^tora are constructed
for variouBspeeds,hvm 100 up to 1,000 or more revolutions,
and already several of them are in use at the Exhibition for
dynamos uid engines.
No other exhioitors at the Crystal Palace have, we think,
a collection of so many and important exhibits of electrical
machinery, plant, inatrumente, apparatus, and practical
applications of electricity generally for light, power, sig-
tuJling, and all other uses under the sun, as have the world-
famous company of Siemens Bros. mnA Oo.. Umitad.
We propose in this article to describe and illustrate some
of their exhibits more particularly and in detail.
to supply the current at the recent Naval Exhibition,
which, as we have mentioned, have been since purchased for
the new station of the St. James's and Pall Mall Company
at Camaby-street. We likewise illustrate the well-known
Siemens alternator with separate exciter, new types of
which are also shown in the Machinery Department From
an historical point of view, there is nothing in the Exhibi-
tion likely to be of greater interest to electrical engineere
than a small dynamo to be seen on Messrs. Siemens's stand
in the Main Traosept. This dynamo is within a few days
of being a quarter of a century old, and is the first practical
dyoamo machine ever constructed, being the original
machine made by Sir William Siemens, the forerunner of
the innumerable progeny that now furnish the world with
light and power. This dynamo was naed in the Boyal
Hlemeni Teatic
The large central station dvnamo and engine, direct-
coupled, embodies the latest ana best practice in the manu-
facture of continuous-current plant for supply of towns or
districts. The dynamo is the largest size of the Siemens
continuous-current type, with vertical two-pole field
magnets, the armature oeing an immense drum laid rather
than wound, with solid copper bars. Sunning at a com-
paratively slow speed of 350 revolutions a minute, this
dynamo gives anoutput of I,600ampereB at 120 volte, capable
of supplying about 3,000 lamps of 10 c.p. It is coupled on
the same shaft and bed-plate to a WiUans and Bobinson
triple-compound engine, closed type, practically conaistinK
of three separate engines driving upon one shaft, and
supplied from the same steam-pipe, having its own steam
separator. This central station set was one of several used
BMlMtliig OalTUiDnK
Institution and before the Society of Telegraph Engineers
to fumisli current for magnetising the lai^e magnet.
In telegraphic and testing instruments Messrs. Siemens
have a very fine and extensive show. Of these we illustrate
several — the standard testing set, used for testing of all
kinds, in the manufacture of cables, the testing of laud
lines or submarine cables, or electrical testing lor resistance
and capacity. The principal peculiarity of their instru-
ment is the arrangement of the reflected beam of light
from the i^vanometer mirror. The lamp is placed beside
the scale, its ray is taken by the lens and sent into the
galvanometer, reflected from the suspended mirror
upon an opal or frosted screen. This has two advantages —
first, that the ray has a long distance to travel, and there-
fore shows delicate readings; and secondly, the spot of
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBHUARY 5, 1892.
129
light flliowH through the frosted Bcreen, and 18 perfectly
euy to obaerve without the obeerver'e head coming iato
any awkward position. The conBtituent parts of this set,
ooneistiDg of a Thomson reflecting galv&Dometer, lamp and
reflector, lenses, and transparent scale, are shown separately.
The telegraph station set of keys and resistances to be used
with this galvanometer is also illuBtrated. This contains a
resistance bridge (Siemens pattern), a set of comparison
coils, branch coils, battery oommntator, key, Bhort-circuit
switch, and peg commutators. The connections are perma-
nent, and all necessary changes for testing cables and
localising faults are made by simply altering the pegs. The
galvanometer used for marine work is more strongly and
can be readily measured by this instrumeat. A very con-
venient and useful set is that of the Siemens universal
galvanometer, furnished with ahunt, commutator, wire
bridge, and resistance stopper, in mahogany case. It is a
compact instrument, mnch used in ordinarv work for taking
resistances and finding the position of faults. The ordinary
linesman's detector f^vanometer UB«d tor all and sundry
continuity teats, for telegraph or electric light wires, ia too
well known, even by non technical folk, to need more than
mention.
Turning now to measuring instruments more definitely
adapted for electric light work we have that most lueftu
instrument, the Siemens standard electro-dyamometer.
LUDP mi Bcflsotor Lanui. Truupuant Scmla.
BtKecUiiK QilTuometar for Slvina Work.
Tangent Gilranam«t«r.
Talc«npb SUUoii Hat.
compactly built and enclosed to stand transport. It is a dead-
beat reflecting galvanometer, with tube arranged for liquid
dampingoftfaevibrationB.asusedfortelegraphingand testing
submarine cables and use on board ship, Two very difierent
types of galvatiometera are also shown. Tangent galvano-
meters (Obach's pattern), small and large size, have movable
ring for the absolute measuremont of poweriul currents and
KH.F.'s ; and Siemens's wire torsion electro-dynamometer,
for the measurement of very weak currents. In this latter
instrument there are two stationary coils (one removable)
and a spherical movable coil. This coil is suspended by
means o! a very fine platinum wire at the top, and a spiral
of fine copper wire at the bottom. Telephnne currents
Tangaiit OalnnoDH
— Df. Ubuh'i Prttwo.
These are shown in various sisea to measure from 0*2 up to
500 amperes, and in portable form from 2 to 600 amperes.
For measuring E.M.F. the potential galvanometer is a con-
venient and accurate instrument, measuring rasiatancea
from 001 up to 170 volts, or in larger form 0-01 to 1,700
volts. TheNQ are also made in portable form measuring 10
to 150 volts, or 20 to 300 volu. The ordinary Siemeni
voltmeter and ammeter is very largely used, especially oti
board ship for electric light plants. These are toraion
instruments, read by turning the pointer till the needle ia
in equilibrium.
Several forma of Siemena'a high-tension exploder for
fnaes and mines are shown, of which we illustrate two.
130 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 5, 1892.
These are in reality email dynamos, gmng, with TigoroDB
rotation, 400 or 500 volts, capable of sendiDg a strong
Bpark through 20 or more fuses for simultaneoUB explosion.
The Heltesen dry cells, which are made and exhibited by
Messrs. Siemens, are illustrated, showing the three usual
types, and also the arrangement for house use in wall
boxes. These batteries hare an E.M.F. of 15 volt, and
their internal resistance low — under OS ohm for types Nos.
1 and 2, and under 1 ohm for No. 3. They can be used
for closed as well as open circuit working, and are very
constant with high recuperative power. The polarisation
is very small, making them specially adapted for telegraphic,
telephonic, and domestic service. They are very cheap, and
mounted sections of cable is a complete set of the Siemens
system of underground mains, both for low-tension and
high-tension distribution, with street boxes uncovered to
show method of connection — the high-tension connecting-
box for concentric cable being specially interesting.
These exhibits are nothing if not practical, and one of
the most practical, not being actual plant, will be the
" portable testing set " on wheels. This is for the con-
venient use either of linesmen for street telegraph work, or
for cable men laying mains for the electric light. It con-
sists of a kind of' covered van on wheels with handles for
pulling, with door closing under lock and key, fitted inside
with all the materials and instruments for careful testing.
GilvaDOinaMr and Shunt Boi. Slemeni Blectro DjuuuDmetlr. Sltmeni Voltmaler— Muins Tjpe.
give a large current for a considerable time, while beinfi
without liquid, are very clean and portable. For military
held work, medical apparatus, and firing batteries they are
much used. For household and hotel work they are fitted
m wooden wall boxes to hold two or more cells.
At Messrs. Siemene's stand, besides the numerous
instruments we have specially mentioned, are others well
worth the attention of electrical engineers, to which we
must do greater justice later. Two fine cases of cables
show a large variety of telegraph, submarine, telephone
Md electnc hght cables. Among those are specimens of
the iron-sheathed concentric cables used on the London
Klectnc cirouita. But of more practical aspect than
Three legs drop down to the ground and form a firm base
for a reflecting galvanometer; a battery of 100 cells is
stowed away at the back, and keys and resistances are con-
veniently arranged. The whole front is covered with a
^rpaulin. The tester lets down a seat, lighta his lamp,
draws the curtain around him, and tests his mains. When
finished he rapidly disconnects, packs up, and wheels his
" testing van " to the next place of juncture.
Further practical articles are shown on the table for use
of high-tension men. These consist of tools with handles
covered with ebonite. Screwdrivers have their ordinary
wooden handles covered Jin. thick with ebonite; pliers
the same beautifully covered with ebonite coating, an 4
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 5, 1892.
131
Baf« to the hands of the worker. Chisels for cattin);
copper, and even Bpanners for unscrewing junction-piecea,
are likewise coated widh a thick coverii^ of smooth and
polished ebonite direct upon the meUl. These tools
sfaoald be found absolutely necessary where interference
with live wires is required for station work.
In arc lamps Messrs. Siemens show fine specimens of [ux)-
jectore, not to mention an immense variety of lamp carbons.
GUNT'S CAUSEWAY ELECTRIC RAILWAY CO.
The iixteenth yearly meeting of this Company woa hstd at tho
CompaDy's officei, Fortrush, on Monday, Dr. Anthony Traill
presiding.
The chalnnan submitted the Directors' report for the year as
follows : Your Directors beg ui submit, for the approval of the
shareholdsrs, their annual report to December 31ai, 1891, which
complel«8 the ninth year since the line was opened for traffic.
a«11UBir> Drr CelU.
Interesting special exhibits in this department are, first,
the actual lamp used for tho lighthouse beam at the Naval
Exhibition with its immense carbons as used foi lighthouse
work. This lamp takes 400 amperes of current. The
second lamp to be noted is an electrically-driven ship's
search-light. Instead of having a special man told off to
move and direct the beam, this movement is all carried nut
by the officer in command himself al any jxisition desired.
The motion is broui;bt about by maguets or motors, con-
trolled by an insenious switch, termed " bi-planer switch,"
the handle of wnioh can move over contacts, up and down,
or from side to side at the same time. The contacts control
the light and movement of the projector entirely by slight
movements of this one switch.
We have not yet exhausted the exhibits at Messrs.
Siemena's stands ; there is still their automatic electric
block train signals ; automatic defence mine exploders,
besides the intricacies of the model electrically-lighted
theatre in the Pompeian Court ; demonstrations ol the
telephonic curves in the interior of the telephone ; the
experiments with the high-tension currents of 50,000 volts
by means of their " electric sea-serpent," or cable shaped
traniformer, and the GO,000-volt transformer, which will be
exhibited to the public after this week. Few exhibitors
hftTe tftken such trouble to interest both the genei'al public
and electrical engineers, and their stands will certainly
be one of the great attractions of the Crystal Palace
Exhibition.
Your Directors are f;lad to be able to report another large ir
in the passenger traffic in the year, the first-class paiaengers
having increased to 9,292 from 8,94.3 last year, and 7,M5 in 1889 ;
andtbethird-closapasaengere having increased to82,406 from 73,809
last year, and 56,322 in 1889— the total for the year being 91,698,
with corresponding receipts, amounting to £2,S30. 4b. 2d., as
i^ainst a total -of 82,802, wich receipts £2,679. 19s. 5d. in 1890,
and a total of £64,669, with receipts £2,338. 11a. 7d. in 1889, The
goods and mineral traffic amounted to 181 tons, compared with 31B
tons in 1890, and the receipts have been respectively £26. Is. 5d.
and £41, Hs, lid. The receipts for parcels and miscellaneous traffio
have diminished durine the year from £77, 7b. to £19, 19s., so that
the total receipts from the levenueocconnt have been £2,895. 14«.7d.,
as against a total of £2,698. lus, 4d. in 1890, There has, however, been
considerable increajw on the expenditure side of the account,
which ebows a total of £1,945, 68, 6d., an against £1,687, 12s. in
1890, and £1,732, lOs. 9d- in 1888. There ia coosequenbly a credit
balance on the result of the year's working of £950. 8s. Id., as
against £1,011. 3b. 4d in 1890, and £381. ISs. 7d. In 1889. ThU
result baa again fulfilled the anticipations of the Directors, and is
traceable not only to the increase in the passenger traffic, but to
the alteration made three years ago in the arrangements with regard
to the goods traffic, which had previously been a constant souroe
of loss to the revenue. It will be seen, on an examination of
the above figures, that the ratio of expenses to receipts, which was
82 per cent, in 1889, and 62 per cent, lo 1890, has been 67 per cent.
in tbe post year. The value of electricity as a locomotive power,
when generated by wat«r power, as compared with steam, con-
tinues to be shown remarkably. Tbe expenses of tbe electrical
working amounted to £314 for 19,863 miles run, or less than 4d.
per mile, while steam power cost £635 for 12,280 miles run,
or Is. O^d. per mile. Your Directora regret tbe considerable
increase in expenditure during the year, but tbey have found
it necessary to refence tbe line for aunost itfl entire length, to
prevent accidents to cattle. They have also paid for the oonver-
s:on of three waggons into cars out of revenue, and have spent a
considerable sum in the renewal of the electrical apparatus, and,
aa the permanent way and sl«am enRtnea have been kept in com-
plete order, everything will be found in proper condition for the
ensuing season. Your Directors regret that they are not yet in a
position to offer a dividend to tbe shareholders, nor can they do so
until the net revenue account is brought into a more favourable posi'
tion ; but tbey think it is evident from the great improvemeDt whiofa
has taken place in tbe finances of tbe Company durin? the last two
years, that the time is approaching when they will be able to do
so ; and they have to olfer their thanks to their various supporters
for their long -con tinned forbearance during trying times, not only
for the Company, bub for the country at large. The rapid increase
in Portrusb from year to year is most favourable to ths pro-
spects of the Company, as that town provides a constant stream
of visitors to the Giant's Causeway and the intervening coast
scenery ; while tourista from distant parts, and the artisans from
the manufacturing towns of Ulster, will add a large contingent, to
long aa the country generally ia prosperous, and witation is
crushed ont by firm government. Mr. Stuart and Mr. W. A. Traill
are the directors who retire by rotation, and they are eligiblo for
re-election,
■r. Hour propoeed, and Kr. Stnart seconded, the adoption of
d Mr. W. A. TraiU, C.E., tbe two retiring
13^ THE ELECTRiCAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 5, 189^.
THE
hLECTRICAL ENGINEER.
Published every Friday.
Price Threepence ; Post Free, Threepence Halfpenny
Editorial and Publishingr Offices :
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Notes 121
Our Portraits 125
Crystal Palace 125
Giant's Causeway Electric
Railway Company 131
Tesla 132
Cantor Lectare—No. 2 133
Correspondence 183
Literature 133
Notes on the Muiagement
of Gas Engines 134
The Berlin Underground
Electric RaUway 136
Modem Applications of Elec-
tricity to MetallurgY 136
EfBciency and Cost of Elec-
tricLight 137
Canterbury 138
Chester 138
Companies* Meetings ^ 139
Companies* Reports 143
Business Notes 143
Provisional PM»nts, 1892 ... 143
Specifications Published ... 144
Companies* Stock and Share
List 144
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With this issue of the Paper is given a Supplement oontaining
Portraits, taken from photographs, of Mr. W. B. Smob, Sir
Bamamln Baker, Kr. O. BiBswsiiger, Mr. O. A. Orladle, and
Kr. B. W. WsllAoe.
Every reader ehould see that he gets this Supplement, and non-
de^hw:y '^A the Paper should be reported at the Publishing Office.
TESLA.
Although Prof. Ajnrton in his presidential address
has raised many points suitable for discussion, and
although many questions of a practical character
arise out of the meetings of the City and South
London and the Central London Bailway Companies,
not to speak of those concerning the exhibition at the
Crystal Palace, it is inevitable that we give the place
of honour to our guest from across the Atlantic.
Till a short time ago, Tesla was a name almost
unknown to English ears. A few men had watched
the announcements of his work in America, and
Prof. 8. P. Thompson, if we remember aright, intro-
duced the name of the worker and his work in the
borderland of science to the English public. But the
man himself is now amongst us, and after his brilliant
experimental lecture in the theatre of the Royal
Institution on Wednesday the name will become as
familiar as a household word. Geissler tubes have
long been shown in the laboratory and the lecture-
room, and many men have thought that in the dim
and distant future something practical might arise
from that root. De la Rue made many investi-
gations ; Spottiswoode, as will be remembered from
his paper at the York meeting of the British Asso-
ciation, carried on the work ; but perhaps above all
others Crookes delved most deeply into this border-
land of science. Now we have Mr. Tesla going
many steps beyond his predecessors, mainly because
he has called to his aid far greater ** frequencies."
The field of investigation has other explorers in
Lodge, Hertz, J. J. Thomson, and we believe that
the work done by Willoughby Smith ought not to
be lost to view.
It was an excellent suggestion of the Institution
to obtain the consent of the Royal Institution so
that Mr. Tesla might expound his discoveries and
show his experiments upon the spot which the
immortal Faraday has made sacred to science.
Hence it was that on Wednesday a brilliant
gathering of members of the Institution met in the
historic theatre to listen to the most recent and
most wonderful discoveries in electrical science, and
to witness experiments which to many of the
audience undoubtedly came as one of the greatest
surprises of the century. Mr. Tesla commenced his
lecture by acknowledging his great indebtedness to
Prof. Crookes, whose work first led him to under-
take investigation into what at first sight seems a
field rather barren of practical results. Perhaps,
however, we are sometimes too anxious to see the
end before the beginning is rightly grasped ; stiU,
we agree with those who consider blind experiment
a waste of time. That is, the experimenter who,
Micawber like, waits to see what will turn up, cannot
be placed upon an equality with the one who has an
object to gain and an end in view. It would be
futile to attempt to describe Mr. Tesla's lecture or
to discufis his investigations. That can only be done
in a lengthy illustrated article, which no doubt will be
duly forthcoming. It was perfectly evident, however,
that Mr. Tesla's object is to obtain light, to super-
sede the present form of incandescent lamp by
another form, to supersede the existing dynamo by
another type. This is a very definite object, one that
Suiiiilemenl to tht " Electkiual Esuisebb," Febrmty Sth, .
n. Bi.N-avvA>'iiEB.
1^
i
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 5, 1892.
133
deserves sacoeqs, and one which, if it succeeds, will
create a revolution in the industry. The scientific
questions involved are of great interest, and will no
doubt receive careful attention. Mr. Tesla kept his
audience spellbound for two hours, and at the end of
that time explained he had only performed about
one-third of the experiments he wished to show.
We trust that after all these years during which,
as the lecturer said, the apparatus used has been
common property, some practical development will
be found to prove its utility.
CANTOR LECTURE— No. 2.
Prof. G. Forbes, in his second Cantor lecture on
Monday last, discussed a number of interesting
problems connected with distribution. Early in the
lecture he referred to the term load £a,ctor introduced
by Mr. Crompton, and stated that the definition of
the term was indefinite. Mr. Crompton had made
five distinct references, but Prof. Forbes would
reduce the use of the term to three cases : (1) the
machinery load factor ; (2) the current load factor ;
and (3) the temporary load fiEbctor. It seems to us
that (2) and (3) resolve themselves into one. The
definitions given by Prof. Forbes are : (1) the ratio of
the average current to the maximum current the
machinery is capable of supplying, or
average current
maximum current of machinery '
Similarly (2) is
average current for period under consideration .
total current used in period
and (3) is
average current for temporary period
maximum current for that period used'
A brief review of the use of the multiple series
method of distribution as in use at Temesvar and
the Secteur Clichy in Paris, brought the lecturer to
the important subject of alternate currents and
transformers. A fairly exhaustive consideration was
given to the use of transformers in each house and
in sub-stations; the lecturer concluding with a
description of some of the principal systems of
mains in use.
CORRESPONDENCE.
" One nuui'i word b no man's word
Justice needs that both be heard.
!.
CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
Sir, — We have been looking anxiously for some speci-
mens of electric welding apparatus in the exhibition in the
Crystal Palace, but there are no signs thereof at present.
We miss also the Parsons steam turbine. Is static electricity
quite forgotten) A good influence machine shown in
operation would be a great attraction. Those who can
remember the beautifol machines in the Polytechnic in
Begent^treet will know what wonderful effects werepro-
duced from them. W.
THE ELECTROLYTIC LAW OF LEAST ENERGY.
Sir, — ^By the accidental omission of the words "the
lowesV' xny letter, page 109, has become unmeaning. The
extract should read :
** At the eleetrode those ions are set free which absorb, in
becoming firee^ the lowest specific energy. — Yours, etc.,
J. T. Sprague.
LITERATURE.
Xleotrio Ugbt CaMM and the IMstribntloii of Kleotrlolty.
By Stuabt a. Russell. With 107 illastrations. Whittaker
and Co., London.
We have considerable pleasure in recommending to the
notice of oui readers Mr. Stuart Eusseirs book on " Electric
Light Gables," which forms the latest addition to the
"Specialists' Series," published by Messrs. Whittaker
and Co.
Within the moderate compass of some 300 pages a large
amount of useful information is contained ; and although
the treatment of conductors in regard to the design of a
system of mains for any practical case can hardly be said to
be complete, this little book should prove valuable to those
electrical engineers who have not nad experience in this
branch of practical work.
After some introductory and, historical remarks, Mr.
Russell discusses the relative advantages of different mate-
rials for use as conductors of electricity, and he arrives at
the conclusion, already well known, in practice, that copper —
soft or hard-drawn — and silicon-bronze are really the only
materials suitable for practical work at the present time.
The relatively great cost of the insulation,^, compared
with that of the conductor makes conductivity of supreme
importance in the case of continuously insulated cables, but
for bare overhead conductors the values of different
materials may be fairly compared by tabulating the values
^ conductivity x breaking stress
specific gravity x cost per ton
The question of economy in conductors next occupies
Mr. Russeirs attention, and he proceeds to discuss the
particular case in which either a constant current or a
variable current with a nearly constant pressure at the con-
sumer's premises is employed. For this case Sir William
Thomson gave the solution in 1881, and Mr. Russell shows
how the solution is arrived at, and discusses the points
which have to be taken into consideration when employing
it in practice. He concludes the consideration of the econo-
mical aspect of design by a reprint of the tables given by
Prof. Forbes in his Cantor lectures in 1885, and he very
properly points out that the rise of temperature of the
conductor and the loss of pressure in it must be carefully
taken into account, and that these two considerations may
make it advisable sometimes to use a smaller current density
than that dictated by economy.
Mr. Russell gives a short account of Mr. Kennelly's
experiments on the heating of conductors, and some useful
tables based u{K)n the results obtained.
After referring to the difference in the value of the ratio
maximum curren ^^^ direct and alternating currents, and
average current
to the bearing of this on the question of economy ; and
after printing Mr. Mordey's table of the virtual resistance
of conductors for alternating currents with different
frequencies, Mr. Russell proceeds to describe and discuss
systems of distribution, with reference to the cost of the
mains, and the greatest distances to which electric energy
can be supplied from a central station.
Some very interesting chapters then follow on the con-
struction and jointing of different forms of conductors, on
the insulating materials employed, and on the considerations
which determine the thickness of insulation in different
cases, on lead-covered cables, on junction and terminal
boxes, etc.
The important subject of testing of cables for conduc-
tivity, insulation, and mechanical strength is next dealt
with, and the conditions under which such tests should be
carried out to make them of any real value carefully
described, and descriptions of the ordinary methods
emploved in practical testing are given.
A chapter on internal wiring next follows, in which Mr.
Russell deals pretty fully with the prevention of fire risks,
permissible loss of pressure in house wiring, and with practical
methods of wiring and fitting an installation in a safe and
durable manner.
We come then to overhead lines, with a discussion on
their supports, insulators, lightning protectors, and on the
calculation of the stresses in the lines and bearec m^^^iL.
134 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 5, 1892.
We tborouKbly agree ttith Mr. Ruuell that the Board of
Trade rule, which insista on a factor of safety 6 for a wind
pressure of SOlb. to the square foot, is altogether unneces-
eary, and wo doubt whether there is an overhead line in
the world conforming to this (in our opinion) absurd rule.
The remainder of the book is occupied with descriptions
of various systemB of laying underground mains and of the
conduits for carrying them. The principal systems in use
are clearly described and well illusbvted, and form an
interesting account of the present methods of putting down
underground mains.
WhUe we think Ur. Russell's book both a useful and
interesting one, we must point out one or two points in
which we think he is in error, and which we hope to see
amended in future editions. To take the most important
first, we ore distinctly at issue with Mr. Russell when be
decides that the cost of the energy wasted in conductors
should not include an amount for interest and depreciation
on plant. Loss of pressure and waste of energy cannot be
considered separately in the way Ur. Russell apparently
does. He says, on page 30, " In the design of a station,
when tlie number of dynamos has been decided upon, it is
usual te make them of such capacity that they can together
supply current for the maximum demand plus an allowance
for reserve, and that each can supply its current at such a
pressure as will provide for the loss in the longest feeders
which can be required in the district, and then to provide
means for reducing the pressure as required by lowering
the speed or adjusting the field strength. . . . This
being so, it ia evident that as long as no mistake has been
made in the estimate of the maximum pressure required at
any station, the first cost of the dynamo and machines is
not affected by a variation in the amount of energy wasted
Iq the conductors."
Now, if the dynamos are required to give a higher
pressure than is required at the consumers , it means, of
course, th^it their output and that of the rest of the plant is
greater, on account of the resistance of the mains, in the
ratio of the pressure at the station to that at the con-
sumers', than it would be if the conducters were of such
size that their resistance was negligible.
The extra output is directly necessitated by the fact that
the conductors are of a particular size, and the interest and
depreciation on the extra amount of plant required should
be debited along with the cost of the energy wasted in the
conducters, when we seek te proportion the conductors for
maximum economy or minimum total expenditure per
annum.
On page 51, Mr. Russell says that in the series system
the speed of the engines and dynamos is reduced with the
load, so that the work done per stroke is kept constant.
In the Brush and Thomson 'Houston systems, which operute
the great majority of arc lamps in the world, it is customary
to employ automatic regulators, which shunt the field
magnets or move the brushes on the commutator, and we
think that regulation by means of the governor (wheihei
by hand or automatic arrangement) is but comparatively
seldom used.
We notice that, while Mr. Russell uses the notation of
the differential calculus (on pages 16, 19, 20, for example),
he prefers lengthy expressions and reasoning to using
the noUtion olthe integral calculus. On page 24, for
example, in place of the expression for the square root of
the mean square of the current, wo think he might write
with adyantage, or as Dr. Rasch has done
very much simpler than performing the integration by
summing the series as Mr. Russell does ; and the engineers
who know that
know also that
/4r . log,
while those who have to
i>di\
where Omu = max. current of the year considered,
current at any instant
Again, on pages 107, 108, and 109 we think
d
take on trust the value of e, may just as well be given the
value of the integral at once.
At various parts of bis book Mr. Russell writes
R - Eo X 1-0021'
when R •= resistance of copper conductor at ( deg. F.
H^ =-. resistance of copper conductor at Odeg. F,
und we think the simpler, and as ws believe more accurate,
formula
R - R, (I + 00021' )
would have been employed with advantage. We may
glint out that Matthiessen's results do not bear out Mr.
assell's formula so well as the simple one. Matthiessen's
results were given by the formula
B-
1 -
ttt + bP'
which gives a curve of R and I at first concave towards the
R axis, but at a quite low temperature there is a point of
inflection, and the curve bends over and is concave towards
the axis of (.
-,log.-
NOTES ON THE MANAGEMENT OF GAS ENGINES.
f Extract from " First Principles of Electric Lighting.")
The following notes are mainly intended for those who,
although not mechanics or engineers, may find themselves
ic charge of a gas engiue^a source of power the use of
which is extending by leaps and bounds. The management
of these engiues is really a simple matter ; at the same
time, they will not run without some little care and atten-
tion. The writer has had many years' experience in the
management of gas engines, and it is hoped that these
notes will be of assistance to those for whom they are
written.
Although many of these notes are applicable to various
makes of gas engines, they especially refer te Croesley's
" Otto " (slide-valve type) and the new Crossley " Otto,"
hot-tube ignition (without slide-valves), each being dealt
with separately.
Starting. — See that everything is dean both inside and
outside, that the water is properly supplied te the cylinder-
jacket, and that the moving parts are free and well oiled ;
then light the burner at bottom of chimney and adjust the
inner light, which should be turned as high as possible
without causing it to smoke.
Next move the governor to its middle position, and keep
it there by means of the " step " provided for this purpose,
so that it can act on the gas-valve. The "atop ' should
disengage itself as soon as the engine begins te run.
How to Turn the Flywlud Eaaly. — To faciliteto turning
the engine by hand al starting, the roller on the exhaust
valve lever may be moved further out so as to engi^ the
lecond cam (or projection) on the shaft, the pin that secures
it being changed to the other side of the roller for the
moment, but when the engine has started die Toiler must he
replaced and secured again so as te be moved by one cam (or
projection) only as before.
In the vertical type of engines the exhaust roller is lift«d
upwardt, and held there by the taper pin whilst starting ;
when started, the pin is pulled out and tbe roller drops
into its working position and requires no securing. In the
smaller sizes of engines no relief cam is required.
Quaniiiy of Oat at StarUng.^To prevent too much gai
being given while turning by baud at starting (which often
prevents ignition), close the tap behind the bag until the
engine begins to work ; if the bag be emptied before the
engine has started, gas must be again admitted to fill the
bag and anotlier attempt made. After a short time a
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 5, 1892
135
position may be found in which to place the tap so as to
admit the gas slowly, turning it ftUl on as soon as the
engine is fairly started.
Some engines being troublesome to start from this cause,
a small by-pass tap (the main tap being closed) will be
found very convenient in starting, or a gas pressure regu-
lator can be fitted between bag and gas main. These
matters being attended to, open the engine gas tap, turn
the flywheel as quickly as possible a few times by hand,
when the engine will at once begin to work. It is useless
pulling the engine dordy round. It only wastes strength
and fails to start the engine.
Difficulties in Starting. — If the engine should take long
to start without apparent reason, examine the exhaust-
valve, and ascertain whether any dirt or other cause
prevents it closing tightly. If this valve is not at fault,
look to the gas supplies at every point.
Sometimes water, by accumulating in the exhaust-pipe,
may cause stoppage. A small hole or a tap at the lowest
point of the pipe will prevent this.
If all attempts at starting the engine fail, do not tinker
with it, but get a mmn from the makers to attend to it, care-
fully noting what he does and asking him to explain the
cause of the difficulty, but if ordinary care be taken, and
these instructions carefully followed, no serious difficulty is
likely to occur.
Lubricaiion, — The two principal parts requiring lubri-
cation are the slide-valve and the piston. Self-acting
oilers are provided for both. These should deliver from four
to twelve drops a minute to the cylinder, according to size
of engine, and two to the slide-valve. See that they drop the
oil as intended, as if allowed to run dry the surfaces will
" cut " and the slide-valve will require to be " faced,'' or
the duplicate valve, etc., put on before the engine will
work again. The interior of the cylinder may also be
seriouslv damaged.
Oil aU the other bearings three or four times a day in
the usual way, and see that none get too warm by being
too tight or too dry.
OH. — It is advisable to use oil supplied by the engine-
makers. The price is rather higher, but it is worth it, and
inferior oils always lead to difficulty from dirt left in the
cylinder and ports, causing irregular working and some-
times a total stoppage. The qualiiy of the oil is a most
important matter,
Begularity of Ignitions, — Always see that an ignition
occurs each time the small gas-valve is opened by the
governor. If it does not, the cause may be dirt in the slide-
ports, or want of regulation of the slide lights, or wear of
slide-valve. The gear which opens the gas-valve may also,
after a time, wear a little, and thus decrease the supplv,
causing loss of power or stoppage. If so« it is easily
adjusted.
fFater Vessel and Cooling, — Never work the engine without
water in the jacket of the cylinder. The water vessel must
be kept full by a ball tap.
See that the circulating pipes are acting. The pipe from
top of cylinder to water vessel should slope upwards at
every point, being nowhere exactly horizontal or sloping
down. The cylinder should not get very much hotter than
the upper part of water vessel. If the engine is exposed to
frost when not working, burn a gas light under the cylinder,
to keep the vxUer from freezing, or if more convenient the
cylinder may be emptied. Neglect of these precautions
may cause the bursting of the cylinder jacket owing to ice
forming.
Exhamt^pe, — Never turn the exhaust-pipe into a flue,
chimney, or drain, lest an accumulation of gas may
accidentally take place and damage be done. Lead it to
the open air, keeping it clear of all woodwork by 6in. or
lOin., as it gets very hot when in use.
Cleaning Slide-valve, — Remove the slide-cover, take out
the slide-valve, and clean all the passages in the various
parts, especially the small hole in the slide-valve leading from
one of the square ports to the small hole through valve just
above the port This hole, not being visible, often escapes
attention. The small hole in back plate leading into cylinder
alao requires thorough cleaning to its full depth. After
gleaning and freeing all the parts from ^it, oil the surfaces
thoroughly and replace the slide and cover, which must be
adjusted as follows : Place the split stops on screw studs,
then the springs and milled nuts, tighten up the springs by
means of the milled nuts, move the engine round a few
turns by hand, then tighten up the small nuts on the split
stops with the short spanner provided for the purpose, and
having afterwards slackened the milled nuts the slide will
be ready. Small tools for cleaning are sent with each
engine.
Changing Slides, — Difficulty in starting will occur
after a time from slight wear of the surfaces of the slide-
valve, or from injury from want of oiling. When this
occurs the best plan is to send the whole set — viz., back
plate, slide, and slide-cover — to the makers, as they will
then be properly faced up, an operation requiring consider-
able skill and practice.
In the meantime the siiare set of slides must be brought
into use, taking care to clean out the tallow and white lead,
not omitting the small hole mentioned in " Gleaning Slide-
valve." The gas fittings must be carefully removed from the
damaged set, and placed in the spare set. When placing
the back plate on cylinder end, se6 that no dust or grit Is
on the surfaces, or the screws will not draw them into close
contact, and a " blow-by " will result. See also that the
screw-driver used raises no "burr" on the screwheads
which might project above the surface of back plate ; the
slide-valve and cover are placed in position as described
in " Cleaning Slide-valve."
The Piston, — The piston should not be taken out unless
cleaning or new packing rings are needed. When it is
taken out, scrape everything thoroughly out that may be
left at the back of cylinder, but if the oil and gas are good
nothing will be found. The crank-pin brass has alone to be
uncoupled to draw the piston.
If it be necessary to fit new rings owing to an escape by
the piston, only change one ring at a time, commencing at
the back. The joints of all the rings should be at the
bottom side of the piston. To draw the piston is easy, to
put it back, turn it upside down, and when in the cylinder
turn it round so as to bring the figures on connecting-rod
to the top. Be careful to see that the small steady pins
in piston ring grooves fit into the slots in the rings, or the
rings will get broken.
It requires some practice to readily replace the piston,
and unless really necessary it should not be withdrawn
when doing it, have patience, and do not use force.
In 16-h.p. engines the cylinder should be cleaned out
inside once a week; not by removing piston, but by scraping
the dirt out through the cover over exhaust-valve, which is
made large enough to admit a youth's arm.
The Oovemor, — The governor performs two distinct
functions — ^it cuts off the gas both when the proper speed
is exceeded and when the engine stops. See that these
are properly performed, and that the gas-valve shuts
correctly, lest running away or waste of gas accidently
follow.
The Oas-valve, — This onlv requires a little "grinding
in " at long intervals. See that the stem is clean and free
from stickiness, and that the spring causes the valve to
close sharply.
The Air-valve, — This again requires little attention, and
the remarks re gas-valve apply equally to this.
The Exhaust-valve, — This valve requires close attention
if the engine is to work regularly and efficiently, it being
exposed to intense heat and to the cutting and corrosive
action of the exhaust vapour. If this valve does not close
tightly, not only is there a large waste of gas into the
exhaust-pipe, causing annoying explosions in the same,
but the remainder of the mixture of gas and air is not
properly compressed, causing great loss of power when
exploded, and often missing exploding altogether, so causing
further waste.
To test the condition of this valve (although it often
makes itself known by a difficulty in starting the engine),
turn the engine by hand without moving the exhaust-valve
roller from its normal or working position. If the valve be
in good condition, great resistance will be felt on the
in-stroke of the piston during which the compression takes
place, and if the flywheel be suddenly released, the engine
136 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 5. 1892
will make one or two revolutions backwards, owing to the
reaction of the compressed air. If, however, the valve be
leaking, the air can be heard " blowing through " it, and
little or no resistance experienced in turning the engine by
hand.
Owing to the neglect of this valve, from want of know
ledge, a considerable amount of gas as well as power is lost
by most gas engines, and is the cause of the gradual
increase of the gas bills, although the work remains
practically the same. To repair the exhaust-valve, remove
the cover and also the connections at end of spindle, lift up
the valve and smear the seat with a little emery and oil,
and grind in by giving the valve a circular motion. To
facilitate this operation, use a piece of iron rod screwed at
one end to fit hole in valve head and squared at the other
to fit an ordinary brace or stock ; continue the operation
until the] edge of valve and valve seating show that the
parts come into contact all round. When this is the case,
wipe ofi, replace the valve and attachments, put on the
cover, and screw down securely, first placing a little black-
lead and oil on the threads of nuts and bolts, as the heat
is apt to make the nuts " set fast"
Adjustment of Exhaust-wdve Lever. — There should be
nearly ^in. play between the roller on exhaust-valve lever
and the body of the cam when not lifting^ to ensure the
shutting of the exhaust-valve. • The operation of grinding
in (above mentioned) tends to lower the valve, and so
reduce this distance.
Protection from Dust, — Keep the engine clean and free
from dust and dirt, taking particular care that none can fall
on to the slide from roof or ceiling.
THE BERLIN UNDERGROUND ELECTRIC
RAILWAY.
The Electricitats (Jesellschaft of Berlin, says the
Eisenbahnzeiiung, is not the only company which has
applied for a concession for an underground electric rail-
way in the Grerman capital ; but it is the company which
seems to have the best chance of obtaining the same. The
scheme for such a railway in Berlin has been accelerated by
the success of the underground electric railway in London.
The company named proposes to construct two lines
crossing each other at right angles, and following the main
traffic of the city. These two lines would divide the town
into four quarters, which would again be connected by two
concentric lines, with stations at the points of crossing.
The main line, N.-S. (Friedrichs Strasse section), under
the Ghauss^e, Friedrichs, and Belle-Alliance Strasse ; and
the E.-W. line (Leipziger Strasse section), below Lands-
berger,Konigs,Leipziger,and Potsdam Strasse. The crossing
point of the two tunnels is situated at the cutting of
Friedrichs and Leipziger Strasse. If from this point two
circular lines, 6,000ft. and 12,000ft. apart, be drawn, we
have the course of the two circular lines, but the outer one
must be considered one for the future. On the other hand,
the remaining lines are to be completed in two years. The
lines will be distinctly separated, as the tunnels lie above
each other. At the terminal points the metals would run
into a loop, so that the train, without actual shifting, will
run from one tunnel into the parallel one in the opposite
direction. Thus there can be no collision of trains running
in opposite directions.
The method adopted by Mr. Oreathead in the construc-
tion of the City and South London line will be followed,
iron tubes being used, whereby the tunnels will be im-
pervious to their greatest enemy — ground water. For the
tunnels, oval cast-iron tubes are to be used ^in. in
thickness, lift, high and 9'6ft. wide at the bottom, and
which will lie at a depth of from 20ft. to 45ft., or about
6ft. below the bottom of the River Spree. Each train
will be composed of three cars, like the ordinarv
tramcars, having two pairs of wheels at each end,
and being open from end to end, and affording
seats for 40 persons. The train will be drawn by an
engine, an electric locomotive of simple construction, as it
will not generate but only utilise the electrical energy.
The engines are to be equipped with slow-speed electro-
motors, and the necessary brake and regulation apparatus
and afford room for the driver and assistant. The trains
are to be run every three minutes with a speed under 16
miles an hour. The difficult problem of platforms has
been happily solved by placing them in the space between the
two parallel tubes, about 30ft. apart. These platforms will
be composed of several iron tubes, and access will be gained
from the street by elevators or steps, with waiting-rooms
above. The lifts will hold 50 persons. At the crossing
stations there will, of course, be two platforms, one above
the other, and communicating. For the section to be built
first, the Friedrichs Strasse line, 14 stopping places are con-
templated, and with the speed indicated, and allowing for
stoppages, the journey would occupy 20 minutes. The total
length in both directions would be about 13 kiloms.
(8 miles), and the cost is estimated at £600,000.
MODERN APPLICATIONS OF ELECTRICITT TO
METALLURGY.*
BY O. C. v. HOLMES, SBC. I.N. A.
(Continued from page 94).
It has been stated that in practice the difference of potential
between the terminals of any one tank is between one-half and
one-quarter of a volt. Taking, however, the figure of two-thirds
of a volt as a standard, and briefly examining the cost of pro-
ducing the current, at a consumption of 2 '241b. of coal per indi-
cated horse-power per hour, one ton of coal should give exactly
1,000 i.h.p. for an hour. Assuming the combined efficiency of
engine and dynamo to be 75 per cent., a figure well within the
limits of the best practice, the above engine power should give
us 750 e.h.p. or 750 x 746 = 559,500 — watt hours. Supposing,
for the sake of simplicity, that the whole of the work is done in
one huge tank, the conditions of which allow the current to be
passed through with a difference of potential of two-thirds of
a volt. There would then be a current of 559,500 x f =839,250
amperes for an hour. Now, referring to Table I., a current
of one ampere for a second can deposit 0 '0003307 grammes
of copper ; therefore the amount deposited by the same
rale of current in an hour = 0*0003307 x 3,600 = 1*19052
grammes, and therefore the current of 839,250 ampere-
hours can deposit . 839,250 x 1 19052 =999, 140 grammes, or
almost exactly one ton of copper can be deposited with the con-
sumption of one ton of coal under the assumed condi-
tions. Of course, for the purposes of the calculation it would
have done equally well to have taken the conditioiis which
obtain in the actual process — namely, a much higher E.M.F.
and a correspondingly reduced current, so long as we kept the
product of amperes and volts constant.
Thus, if an E.M.F. of 100 volts had been selected, a corre-
sponding current of 5,595 ampere-hours would have been taken,
and while the copper deposited in each tank would have been
ri^th of what it was in the first case, the E.M.F. would be
sufficient to pass the current through 100 x f =150 tanks instead
of one. It need hardly be mentioned here that these figures
are only given as an illustration, for in working much smaller
currents are dealt with.
To the cost of fuel necessary for producing the current has
to be added that of labour, maintenance, stores, and that of
refining copper matter, or rough copper, up to the standard
pitch of purity, and also that of casting the anodes. The actual
cost of producing a ton of pure electrolytic copper varies also
somewhat with the design of the plant and the care that is spent
in maintaining it. If the current be allowed to run to earth,
if conductors of scant area, and if dirty contacts are used, if the
electrolyte be not maintained in proper condition, if verv
impure anodes are employed, and if the current passed through
the tanks be so dense that a high E.M.F. is necessary,
the cost of electro-refining copper may easily be made ruinously
expensive. But if the conditions are made and maintained
favourable, as they can be with moderate care, the cost should
not exceed from £3. 10s. to £4 per ton, and has in some
instances worked out much lower. If due care be exercised in
the selection of the brand of copper to be refined, this cost
may easily be more than covered by the value of the gold and
silver recovered from the sludge in the bottom of the tanks.
Treatme^U for Rendering the Deposited Copper S^iitable for
General Use. — The copper deposited in electrolytic refineries,
though chemically pure, is of a crystalline character, and
possesses but little cohesive strength. It is therefore, in its
aeposited condition, quite unsuitable for the manufacture of
goods, and is, in fact, only ifsed for the manufacture of high
conductivity wire for electric purposes, and before being drawn
into wire it has to be melted, cast into ingots, forged, rolled,
* Paper read before the Junior Engineering Society, Jan. 15.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBBUARY 5, 1892.
137
Mid out into BtripB. If theooppercDuIdbedepoBiCedmatoa^h,
denae, and reguline cundition at the sama time that it was being
refined, a great saving of eipeoia wuuld result.
Ttit Elmore Procat of Copper DepotitioH.-^'Sunietom experi-
nieou were carried out from time to time with the object of
attaining the desired end, but none of them resulted in aujthing
like practical auoceas uiitU MeBsrs, Elmore invented Uie beauti-
fully simple process of oontinuously burnishing the copper
while it was being deposited, jrithout removing the cathode
from the bath.
The manner in which this n done may be described as
follows : A mandrel of iron, or preferably of copper, is mounted
on insulated bearings in the tank or bath, and a burnisher oon-
siating of a small prism of agate is caused to travel, like the
cutting toot in a lathe, along the aurface of the mandrel in a
direction parallel to its axis. While the current is passing, the
■n&ndrel is caused to revolve by wheel and chain gearing. The
anodes are arranged at the sides and bottom of che mandrel,
and aa near the latter as can be conveniently managed. If the
mandrel is of iron it must, before being mounted in the bath,
be covered with a thin deposit of copper in a cyanide of copper
bath, otherwise the surface would be attacked by the free acid
in the bath. As the copper is deposited on the revolving
mandrel the burnisher presses with even but gentle force on the
surfitce, and breaks down the cryatalline formation, converting
the deposit into a dense, reguline metal of greater specific
gravity than ordinary sheet copper. The speed of travel of the
ngate burnisher is so arranged in relation to the depositing
power of the current that, on the average, a layer of copper of
not more than TiArgin- in thickness is deposited in the interval
between two successive passages of the tool over a given spot.
The tanks are arranged end to end in double rows, and
between two rows is placed the line of shafting which drives
the chain and wheel gearing by which the mandrela are rotated.
Between the same two rowa is also placed parallel to the axes of
the mandrels a piece of shafting as long as the row, which is
propelled alternately backwards and forwards for a distance
equal to the length of the longest mandrel in the tanks, by a
■crew, resembling the screw of a lathe, and which is placed
between the pair of tanks at one of the ends of the double row.
This long piece of shafting carries on slide-ban, reaembling the
alides of s lathe, reats, to which are attached the bumisher-
bt^detB. If the mandrels are of small diameter two or more of
them can be mounted in the same tank, the object being to
expose approximately the same surface of cathode m eaoh. The
current passes away from the cathode through a copper brush—
somewhat resembhng the bruab of a dynamo — which bears
r'nst the revolving surface of one end of the mandrel. The
re operations are purely automatic and go on night and day.
One attendant can attend to 50 or 60 tanks, and thus the
prooeas, in addition to its other advantagea, has the merit of
being very economical of labour.
One of the great advantages secured by the use of the
burnisher over and above the superior quality of the metal
obtained ia that the current density per square foot of cathode
may be from throe to four times that made use of in electro-
refining, or in ordinary electroplating. A current of 20 amperes
Kr square foot is commonly made use of, and even 28 amperes
ve occasionally been employed with perfect success. The
author need hardly point eut the saving to be efiected in the
first cost of building, tanks, and gearing by the power thus
conferred of depoaitmg at a rapid late. A current density of
20 amperes corresponds to a rate of deposit of nearly 91b. per
square foot of cathode par full week of 168 hours.
As in all electric processes, so in this, the greatest care most
be taken to ensure that there is no loss of current to earth —
such as would be brought about by leaky tanks — and no
imneceisary outside resistances — such as would be caused by
imperfect contacts where the branch conductors are joined to
the mains. All the observations riwarding the means of
ensuring a perfectly pure copper deposit which have already
been made with reference to electro-refining apply equal^ here.
It is absolutely essential that in cases where perfect oontiuuity
is desired in the metal deposited there should be no interruption
to the current. The density of the current may be varied
without producing a severance of the continuity of the metal,
but if the current were stopped altogether, and oxides were
present on the surfaces of the anodes, there would be generated
a back current in each tank which would result in the partial
oxidation of the surface of the cathode, and a break m the
metAllic continuity when the current wm put on sgain would
be the cvnsequence. Even if there were no back current the
surface of the cathode would oxidise in time, for it is well
known that the free sulphuric acid in the bath would attack
the copper in the presence of air, and in consequence of the
rotatory motion of the mandrels, it is highly probable that a
coTuideiable portion of air is drawn into intimate contact with
the surfaces. Hence, in cases where metallic continuity in the
finished product is imperative, as, for instance, in high-pressure
■team-pipea, or in tubes which have afterwards to be t&awn down
to a smaller diameter, it is essential that means be adopted to
render the current continuous.
When the metal has been deposited to the rec^uired thickness,
the tank in question is cut out of the circuit, the mandrels
removed from it, and the liquor run out into a settling-tonk
where the sludfje separates out. The copper tube whi^ has
been formed on it is then removed in one of several ways. It
may either be expanded off by sufwrheated steam if deposited
on an iron mandrel, as copper expands more per lineal unit,
when heated, than does iron ; or it may be put into a machine
and be subjected to the squeezing action of rollers which
gradually travel along its surface, the effect being to slightly
enlarge the diameter of the tube, and thus enable it to be drawn
off the mandrel. If the mandrel, however, be of copper, the
tube requires neither heating nor rolling, because the first film
of ooppar that is deposited can, by a most ingenious contrivance,
be aepsrated from the body of the mandrel while still allowed
to adhere at the two ends. When finished, the two fixed enda
are cut off in a lathe, and the tube can be easily withdrawn.
(To he
EFFICIENCY AND COST OF ELECTRIC LIGHT.
An admirable lecture was given before the Peterborough Scien-
tific Society last week on the above subject by Hr. John C Uill,
A.M.I.C.E., citv engineer and surveyor, of Peterboroagh. The
lecture was fully illustrated by lamps and batteries lent by the
India Rubber Company, of Silvertown.
Kr. Olll first explained in an explicit manner the effioiencyof the
electric light as compared with gas in lighting power. The official
unit of light is the candle-power, the light of a standard candle,
six to the pound, burning 120 grains of spermaceti wax per hour.
The lecturer here explained combustion of gas at burner, showed
and explained the glow lamp, and how the filament is made
Incandescent by passing a current of electricity through it.
Dr. Julius ThomsoD, of Copenhagen, has made some oaraful tests
of the energy consumed in producing light by sperm-candle, oil,
and gas, and gave the result as 12*28 foot-pounds per candle-power
per minute, and aa this confirms the resulCe of other Independent
tests where electricity was also used, the mechanical equivalent
of artificial light, taken for these calculations, was 12 foot-pounds
per candle per minute. In producing light bv coal gas and
electricity, we start at the same place—the coal, and finish at
the same plaoe — the light. The eneiyy taken from the coal
at the commencement, and tliat delivered in light at the end,
can be compared. The last Board of Trade return on the
manufacture of gas in the United Kingdom shows the total
Quantity of coal used in 1890 amounted to 10,240,000 tons, and
this produced 103,100 millions of cubic feet of gas. This gives an
average of 10,066ft. of gas for each ton. The total heating power
of lib. of average coalamaaat«t«14,320unit«, one English thermal
unit being eqnal to 772 foot-pounds of work. The average quantity
of coal used in making one cubic foot of gas is, from the foregoing
figures, ''2221b., and ulowing five cubic (Set to give IS c.p. for one
hour, we get 11,520 toot-poundsenergy in light from each llllb.
oEcoal. But each 1-1 lib. of coal contains originally 12,059,412
foot-pounds of energy, so only 1)95 per cent, of the mechanical
energy in the coal is utilised, or, it may be said, the efficiency of
coal-gas is 005 per ci~'
a central station lighting may be ta^en at 2^lb per borae-power
hour. Each horse-power at the engine therefore absorbs 39,800
units of heat per hour, or 27,6.'i7.600 foot-pounds of work. Now,
an incandescent electric lamp of 16 c.p. requires HO watts of
electricity per hour. The mechanical equivalent of one watt of elec-
tric current being 44 '2 footpounds per minule, the 16-c.p, lamp usee
159, 120 foot-pounds per hour. Oneh p. would theroforesupp^ 12'4
lamps each of 16 c.p. far one hour, or a total of 19tj candlee, which
at 12 foot-pounds per minute would have a mechanical equivalent
of 142,560 foot-ponnds per hour. But it has been seen that to
get this energy at the lamps coal is used at the boiler, the energy
of which amounted to over 27 million foot-pounds, and working it
out exactly the efficiency is '516 per cent. The respective emd-
ences are therefore coal-gas -095 and electricity 516 per cent.,
the proportion being as 1 to 5'4. Both proceeaex soem at first
sight Co be exceedingly wasteful, aa by the i>etter of them there is lees
than 1 per cent, of the energy in the coal utilised, while more than 99
per cent, is wasted. But the great object of the comparison was to
show that electrici^ will give five times more light than gas from
the same amount of coal, or, to put it in another way, lib. of coal
will give five times as much light when used through a steam
engine and dynamo as when made into gas. This fact must in
course of time tell in favour of electiicity.
Mr. Gill then proceeded to explain uie electrical units, watt,
ampere, luid volt, and remarked : The time is coming when eveiy
ordinary mind will have a fixed idea of a watt of electricity, just aa it
hasnowofagallonof water or a yard of ribbon. Forthe present pur-
pose it is sufficient to beariominathatonewattisl-746thpartof Ih.p.
A 16-c.p. lamp requirioK 60 watts per hour of electricity, for 1,000
watts wo should have 285 candies. Taking a flat-fiame gas burner to
give 12 candles for every 5ft. per hour consumed, we have 2,400
candles for each 1,000ft. of gas. The ratio between the lighting
power of 1,000ft. of gas and one kilowatt of electricity la Uwr^ore
138 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 5, 1892.
as 9 to 1, and to be of equal cost, light for light, the price of one
kilowatt of electricity shoald be ^tn of the price of 1,000ft. of gas.
With the price of gas at 3s. 4d. per 1,000 cubic feet, as in Peter-
borough, the price of electricity to supply the same light at the
same cost should be 4^. per kilowatt-hour or Board of Trade
unit. At Newcastle-on-Tyne the price is 4^d. per kilowatt,
and therefore electricity is sold at Newcastle at the same cost,
li^ht for light, as gas at Peterborough. But it is hardly
fair to wifint the electric light supplied at the same price as gas.
It is so much brighter, purer, cleaner, healthier, and safer that its
market value is higher. Thus we find that there is a great and
constantly growing demand for electric light in Bradford, where
it is sold at 6d. per kilowatt, although the price of gas is only
2b. 3d. per l,000tt. Electric lightinghas larg^e collateral economic
ad vantages when compared with gas. inquiring whether the present
price of electric lighting will be maintained, or whether there is any
prospect of its being cheapened, the lecturer gave the reply with.the
ereatest certainty that it will become much cheaper than at present.
Theday of experiment is passed, and the permanent electric Ughting
plants now erected are amongst the most efficient of machinery.
But there is a monopoly in the manufacture of the glow lamps
which keeps up the price. Two years hence the Edison -Swan
patents will expire, the manufacture will be open, and the cost
considerably reauced. Another reason why we may safely predict
a lowering in the price of electric lighting is that the interest on
capital and the maintenance expenses of a large central station
plant are just as heavy when supplying only one-third of their full
capacity of lamps as they are when running with a full load. This
is just what is happening now, and the electric lighting industry
is passing through that season of heavy outlays and small returns
through which every new industry has to pass. It was exactly the
same with gas when first introduced, and gas companies now pay
good dividends. As with gas, so with electric light - the greater
the demand the cheaper the supply. There can be no denying the
fact that the past year has been one of extensive progress in
electric lighting. The Act of 1888 made successful Ughting by
electricity supply companies possible, yet there are already com-
panies registered whose authorised capital amounts to £5,300,000.
This will compare favourably with any other new industry, and it
must be borne in mind that this sum of five and a quarter millions
devoted to electric lighting is independent of the electricity
supply works established in many towns by the local authorities.
A vote of thanks was cordially given at the close.
CANTERBURY.
Tbe following is the report of the committee selected
to report upon the drafts of agreement and deed of transfer
submitted to the Canterbury Town Council by the
solicitors to the Brush Electrical Engineering Company,
Limited :
The committee having had under consideration the drafts of the
agreement and deed of transfer submitted by the solicitors to the
Brush Company beg to report that in the opinion of the committee
one of the nrst and most important points to be assured is the
stability of the company to which the transfer of the Canterbury
Electric Lighting Order, 1891, is to be made. The original pro-
position was that the Council should transfer the order to the
Brush Company, or to a local company to be formed in all respects
to the satisfaction of the Council, but in any event it was
understood that the capital was to be £50,000, for which
the Brush Company was to be answerable, it being pro-
posed that a sum of £15,000 should be called up to commence
with. The draft submitted to the Council provides for a transfer
of the order to the Canterbury Electricity Supply Companv,
Limited, a subsidiary company rormed under the auspices of the
Brush Company and at present existing only in name, having no
capital subscribed except seven shares taken by the seven sub-
scribers to their articles of association, who are officers and
employes of tbe Brush Company. The draft provides that the
capital of the Canterbury Company shall be increased to £50,000,
but it is proposed to start with a subscription of £15,000 only,
and it is provided by the agreement that if there is a faUure to
obtain subscriptions to the extent of £15,000 before June 1, 1892,
either party to the agreement may determine it. It is scarcely neces-
sary to point out the difference in point of stability between a com-
pany with £50,000 subscribed and £15,000 paid up, and a company
with a subscribed capital of £15,000 fully paid up. Having regard to
the importance of dealing with a company of stability, your com-
mittee consider that if this transfer is to be made to the Canterburv
Company, the Council should have safeguard by tbe Brush
Company's guarantee to the extent of the £50,000 capital, so
that the money may be called up and may be forthcoming as
reauired.
It was stated on the original proposition that the Brush Com-
pany would commence the work of electric lighting directly a
transfer of the order was made, but the present dralt makes the
whole transactions depend on the raising ot £15,000 by this Canter-
bury Company. If, however, the precautions suggested above
as to tramaerring to a stable company are adopted, this difficulty
disappears.
The committee further consider that the compulsory area of
supply riiould be increased by the inclusion ox Bricfge-street,
Broad-street, and Palace-street.
With reference to the powers for the Council to repurchase the
undertaking, your committee consider that no claims should be
made for compulsory purchase, and provisions are required that at
the expiration of 42 years the Council may repurchase under the
terms contained in the Electric Lighting Acts.
No limitation is contained in the draft as to the amount of
dividend which the company taking over this order may make,
but your committee consider that it is most important thiat there
should be some limit, and propose that after the company has
received a cumulative dividend of 7 per cent., one-hau of the
excess profit shall be applied in the reduction of the price of
electricity and the remaining half shall be taken by the company.
Provision should also in the opinion of your committee be made
for the following matters :
That the company taking the order shall not transfer to any
other company without the consent of the Council.
That the expenses incurred by the Council in negotiations and
in the transfer of this order be paid by the Brush Company, this
being part of the terms arranged.
That the cost of obtaining the provisional order, not exceeding
£350, shall be paid by the Brush Company on completion of the
transfer of the order.
That the local authority or the undertakers may apply to the
Board of Trade every seven years for revision of the maximum
price.
That the usual provisions for security and execution of works —
the keeping and audit of accounts— and other necessary powers
and provisions for the protection of the local authority, and which
are usually inserted in provisional orders granted to companies, be
embodied in any document transferring the order.
That no promotion-money shall be paid by the Canterbury
Company.
That the order shall lapse to the Council if the company taking
the order fails to carry out its obligations.
Alderman Crom, in moving the adoption of the report, said they
would see that the sub-committee had gone very fully into the
matter of electric lighting. They had had the provisional order
before them and had gone through it in detail, and also the agree-
ment drawn up by the Brush Company. The whole of their pro-
ceedings had been embodied in the report, and he would, thereiore,
without any further remarks, move its adoption, and that a copy
of it be sent to the solicitors of the Brush Company.
The report was adopted.
CHESTER.
The following report by Mr. Alderman Gilbert, Mr.
Councillor Stevenson, and the city surveyor, after their
inspection of various installations, has been presented to
the Chester Watch Committee :
Brighton. — Brighton represents the two systems of distribution
in operation in the same town — viz. : 1. The high-pressure
alternating current, supplied by tbe Brighton and Hove Electric
Light Company. 2. The low-pressure continuous current, supplied
by the Corporation of Brighton. His Worship the Mayor received
the deputation most courteously, accompanied by Mr. Moon,
chairman of the Lighting Committee, and other members of the
Town Council, with Mr. Tilstone, the town clerk, Mr. Wright,
local manager, and Mr. Nebel, superintendent of works, m>m
whom the following information was obtained : The high-tension
electricity is distributed by means of overhead wires from the
Brighton and Hove Electric Light Compemy's central station.
Tbe company has existed for upwards of 10 years, and the Town
Council are somewhat indebted to them for working up the business
which, though steadily increasing, is stated to to at present an
unprofitable one. The company unsuccessfully applied for a pro-
visional order, and opp<MBed the one granted to the Town Council.
Subse(^uentlv there were negotiations to purchase the company's
goodwill and plant for £7,000 ; this was not carried through, as
the Town Council would not adopt the Lighting Committee's
recommendation. A slight variation in the light was observed for
a short period at the hotel at which the deputation stayed, but
printed testimonials show that consumers are very well satisfied.
The installation was by Messrs. Hammond and Ca, electrical
engineers and contractors, who have also been engaged on the
central stations, etc., at Eastbourne, Hastings, West Brompton,
and Madrid. This firm's tender has lately been accepted for the
first installation of the light for the Dublin Corporation, under Mr.
Harty, the borough surveyor, and Mr. Manville, electrical
engineer. The streets of Brighton are lighted by gas only ; the
gas works belong to a company, the charge for gas being 2s. 9d.
per 1,000 cubic ^t, and it was observed that the majontv of the
tradesmen were not supplied with the electric light, and that tbe
larger hotels provide the electrical machinery and appliances for
their own lighting purposes ; and, notwithstanding tnat the town
of Hove is served^ this company, it has advertise its provisional
order for sale. The Town Council of Brighton have borrowed
£^,000 for a period of 30 years, and are now applying for a sup[)le-
mentary loan of £8,500 ; the eventual total cost of the installation
(including £7,000 for site of station) is estimated at £42,000, and
this sum it is calculated will supply 10,000 lamps (the usual
average, 5,0(X), being lighted at one time). This station is now
supplying 2,500 lamps with current at 7d. per Board of Trade
unit, the number lighted at one time being, say, 1,200, and the
largest single instalmtion being 300 lights at the Alhambra. The
Corporation cannot ascertain profit or loss, having bad only two
months' experience ; an opinion was expressed that loss must arise
TfiE ELECTfllOAL ENGlNiEER, FEBRUARY 6, 1895.
139
on the present outDut, but that if the maximnm is Bopplied,
profit may be maae, as the only increased outlay will be
in the direction of wages, fuel, etc. Coal costs at Brighton
228. per ton, the best Welsh steam coal beincr preferred.
The Mayor and members of the Council consider the Tow-pressure
continuous-current and storage battery system the best for
compact areas (Ij miles greatest distance), and therefore for
Chester. They advise keeping the order in the hands of the
Corporation, having great faith in the future of the electric light.
The electric light cost, calculated lamp r. lamp, is double that of
gas, but greater illumination is obtained; the consumers* expecta-
tion is met by giving a better light, besides improved conditions
of health and cleanliness ; smaller fire risks, clearer atmosphere,
and non -destructive effects are also advantages which are claimed
for the electric light v. gas. A very successful installation was
examined at the shop of Mr. Co well. North -street, and that
gentleman expressed himself highly delighted with the result, and
from enquiry at the hotel the cost of five lamps supplied with current
by the Brighton and Hove Electric Light Company for three and
a quarter hours is 7d. The Corporation do not put in the fittings on
the consumers' premises. It was noted from the experience at
Brighton that sub-contracting would not give the beet station
results ; that limited spcu^ is undesirable ; that the testing-room
should be away from the works ; that duplicate steam -pipes would
be advantageous ; and that the appliances, such as switches, etc.,
should not be placed in immediate proximity to the engines. The
area of supply equals one mile square, and up to the present time
about 20 miles of cables have been laid in small subways under the
footways, etc. , of the streets. The land on which the central station is
erected is about half an acre in extent, and the plant consists of :
Three Lancashire boilers, 28ft. by 7^ft., one as a stand-by, with
space for three additional ; three compound direct-coupled engines,
each developing 98 i.h.p. at 450 revolutions, and supplied by
Messrs. Willans and Robinson ; dynamos, apparatus, electric
instruments, and appliances were supplied by Messrs. Siemens
Bros , Goolden and Co. , and others ; two sets E. P. S. batteries,
first cost £2,700, estimated life four to five years ; several descrip-
tions of meters in use, ranging from 25 to 100 lights, highest price
£10, prime cost ; the Aron £5, or on hire lOs. per year. One lamp
will hardly register in certain meters. The Edison is considered
very accurate. The Corporation keep in repair and regulate all
meters. The working hours at the station are from 2 p.m. to 10
p.m., when steam is shut off, the batteries supplying current for
the remaining 16 hours. Sixtv-six lights were being supplied at
the time of visit— 11 a m. The electrical engineer employed at
Brighton, as also at Bradford, Portsmouth, and St. James's, Pall-
maU, was Mr. Shoolbred ; the principal contractors were Messrs.
Sharp and Kent.
St. Pancrow.— The Vestry of St. Pancras (pioneer in London of
municipal enterprise in relation to electricity) commenced their
supply on the 9tn November, 1891. The installation is of a first-
class type, and the latest example of the low-pressure continuous-
current and storage battery system, as applied to street and
house lighting, and for motive power. Mr. Pyecraft, the vestry
clerk's representative, and Mr. Baron, the official in charge, were
present at the inspection, and they considered that the low-
pressure system would economically serve areas with distances
extending three-quarters to one mile, and with sub-stations at 1^
miles, the extreme distance in the lighting area of St. Pancras
being 5^ miles from the central station. The capital expenditure
is made up as follows-^viz. :
The site £10,000
P*uildings and plant, including five miles of mains 50,946
Royalty for use of three-wire mains 909
Commission 1,988
Sub-station 550
Weighing machine 100
Pubfic lighting (90 lamps) 900
Meters 1,000
Opening expenses 50
Contingencies 3,557
Total £70,000
This sum is to cover an installation of 10.000 l6-c.p. lamps or
their equivalent. The charge per Board of Trade unit is 6d., and
contracts for supplies equal to 6,0(X) lam {is have been sealed by
the Vestry. The lamps for street lighting are supplied direct,
and are of excellent design and fixea on the central line of the
carriageways, at average distances of 50 yards. The current is
supplied by two dynamos for this direct lighting. The steam is
shut off at certain hours for the house lighting, and if current is
then required, it is served by storage batteries and the three-wire
system of main distribution. The cables are laid in brick and
concrete subways under the footways and carriageways, and dry
air is driven through the subways from the centreil station to
expel moisture, etc. The chimney stack is 170ft. high, and the
exterior is utilised to assist the condensation of steam, by means
of large exposed surfaces of corrugated iron plates affixed
thereto. Coal is supplied to the station at 21 s. per ton. Six
Babcock and Wilcox boilers, working up to 2401b. pres-
sure ; 1 1 Willans and Robinson's triple expansion engmes,
170 h. p., with a system in application for condensing; Kapp's
dynamos ; Brockie-Pell arc lamps for street lighting ; Electric
(xmstruction Company's No. 55 battery, having trans-
S^rent glass containers. The loss on storage equals 15 per cent,
easorement of electricity by meters. Charge 2s. 6d. per quarter
(smallest size). Prime cost of Ferranti's meter, £6. Frager's
meter working similar to clockwork. Prof. Henry Robinson was
the etoctrical engineer employed by the Vestry.
Eastbourne. — The Eastbourne Electric Li^ht Company is stated
to be the pioneer company of electric lightmg. Capital £28,0(X).
Debentuies pay 6 per cent. The old central station has been
removed, and changes have beeu and are being made in the
machinery, and this is now fixed in an old building formerly used
as a brewery. The Corporation opposed the company's provisional
order up to the last moment ; ana the Board of 'Traae imposed
underground wires, which are carried under public streets in
cast-iron pipes ; 12 miles of mains are laid. The majority of the
shops take the supply ; the furthest point of supply being 2^ miles
distant from the station. The high-pressure alternating current
of 1,800 volts at the central station is transformed by converters
to 100 volts on the consumer's premises The Brush electrical
machinery, driven direct from a special engine, is used for the Parade
lighting, starting one hour before sunset, and closing down at 11.30.
This public lighting consists of 16 Brush arc lamps, 1,000 c.p.
to 2,000 c.p., each of which costs «^d. per hour, or a total for the
16 lamps of £480 per year. The number of incandescent 16-c.p. lamps
is given as 2,(KX) to 3,000, and a total of, say, 6,0(X) could be sup-
plied with the present plant, price lOd. per unit — coal 26s. per ton.
The day's run commences two hours before sunset, and ceasee at
1 a.m., an ordinary semi- portable engine working the remainder
of the 24 hours. The plant, as altered, includes Fowler's tubular
boilers, 1401b. pressure ; Fowler's 150-h.p. compound engines,
driving dynamos bv belting, and working up to 2001b. steam
pressure ; Elwell and Parker's djmamos, running at 400 revolutions
per minute ; Westinghouse meters hired at 5s. per quarter ; prime
cost ranges from £3. lOs. to £5. The engineers and contractors
employed were Messrs. Hammond and Co.
\Vef*t BrompioH,— The West Brompton House-to-House Electric
CompMkny was formed in 1889, and the provisional order was
unopposed by the Vestry. Capital of company, £70,000. Last
week s net profit said to be £180. The installation was the best
example which came under the notice of the sub-committee of the
high-tension alternating current system with transformers to low
tension conveniently placed at or near the premises and small
areas supplied with electricity. Mr. Gay, manager, lucidly
explained the arrangements, aided by a plan of the district
showing all the wires laid permanently or temporarily, wiUi
buttons indicating the number of lights for each consumer. The
central station is designed for extension up to 12 engines and
dynamos to supplv 40,000 lamps ; at present there are 19,0(X)
lamps installed, the number lighted at one time being about
8,000. The charge made is 8a. per unit ; coal 22s. per ton.
The representatives of the company are strong advocates of
the method of distribution by means of high-tension electricity,
the great advantage claimed being the easy method of supply to
one or more consumers at considerable distances from the central
station ; it is said there will be little difficulty in transference to
low tension when the area of supply becomes more compact. It is
stated that the first heavy cost of machines and mains to supply a
few consumers at lon^ distances on the high-tension system is
fully oounterbalanced by the cost of the four required sub-stations
to the square mile, and the battery storage loss rising up to 30 per
cent under the low- tension system. There are 20 miles of mains
laid in cast iron pipes the largest diameter of pipe being 6in.
The plant consists of four Babcock and Wilcox boilers, 1201b. to
I45lb. pressure ; four Fowler's compound horizontal (non-con-
densing) engines, one only working after 12 p m. ; Lowrie-Hall
type of dynamos, driven by ropes from grooved flywheels of
engines ; Westinghouse meters, small size hired at 5s. per quarter.
Messrs. Hammond and (Ik>. were the electrical engineers and
contractors to this company.
It will be observea that the coal cost at Chester is but
one half the price paid in the towns visited, and this
fact, coupled with information derived from various returns,
documents, pamphlets, and estimates, demonstrates that Chester is
well circumstanced and favourably situated for an installation of
the electric light, and as '* time " is an important element as reguds
the lapsing of the Town Council powers under the provistonal
order, the members of the deputation advise —
1. The introduction of electric lighting for part of the area
within the city boundary.
2. That the central station be so designed as to be capable of
development with the smallest possible rebuilding, or alteration
of machinery.
3. That not more than £15,000 to £20,000 be expended in pro-
viding a first installation.
{Siyned) Leonard Gildbrt,
Anthony Stsvenson.
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
CITY AND SOUTH LONDON RAILWAY COMPANY.
The fifteenth ordinary general meeting of this Company was
held at Winchester House, B.C., on Tuesday morning, the chair-
man, Mr. Charles Grey Mott, presiding.
The Seoretary, Mr. W. F. Knight, baving read the notice con-
vening the meeting.
The Clialniian said : Before proceeding to move the adoption of
the report, I am sure I shall be expressing your feelings as well as
my own in saying how much sorrow and sympathy we have felt
with the Prince and Princess of Wales in the loss of their son the
Duke of Clarence. His loss has been a sorrow to the whole
country, and the whole country has sympathised with it. But to
us it comes home especially, for it is now little more than a year
140 TflE ULECTRlCAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 5, 1892.
ago since he was present at the opening ceremony of this railway.
He came there at his own request. He took a strong interest in
the line, and showed that he fully appreciated the great benefits
that a line like this might brine to this country as well as to
others. I am sure that we all feel and will desire to express our
deepest sympathy with the Royal Family in their sad bereave-
ment.
It now becomes my dutv to move that the report and accounts
now presented be received and adopted. I regret that we have to
meet you again without the declaration of a dividend on the ordi-
nary stock. During the first half of the present year we had, in
company with many other lines, an unsatisfactory traffic. Our
line is especially affected during the holiday season by the absence
of our regular travellers, but we expected that this would be far
more than made up by the increased traffic which we should
receive owing- to the cricket matches at the Oval. Unfortunately,
the weather was so extremely bad, as you know, during the whole
of that period that there was hardlv a match that was in any respect
a success, and we got little or no aaditional traffic from that source.
The result was that our average receipts for the first quarter of
the half-year were only £704 a week. After the holiday season
was over, and people began to get more confidence In our line, our
traffic began steadily to increase ; so much so that in the second
quarter o! the half-year our average receipts were raised to £802
per week. We have tried to improve. We thought that part of
the want of increase in traffic in the first half might be due to our
fares being in excess at some periods of the day, and that a reduc-
tion of these fares might produce an increased income. We did
reduce and vary them, ana on the whole we think that so far the
reduction has been successful. But in some cases we have since
found that we can increase them again without losing the traffic,
and we are taking every opportunity we can of carrying out
that policy. The reduction of the fares is evidenced in the
following way : The average fare for a passenger in the first
half of last year was 1 *9d. In the second half it was reduced to
l'7d., inclusive of season-tickets. The reduction of that decimal
between '7 and '9 amounts to more than £2,000 in the half-year,
but it has been more than made up by the increased number of
passengers we have carried, and so on the whole of the half-year
we show a total increase in receipts of some £600. When we began
to raise the fares, as we did on the 1st November last, we intro-
duced a system of season-tickets which has been lareely availed of,
and the number is steadily increasing, and I am gutd to say that
those which have just expired are nearly all being renewed, showing
that the season-tickets have met a demand, and that we are
E'ving satisfaction to their holders. The great fault of the
le is the want of traffic and of sufficient receipts. Our
receipts per train mile are 28. l^. Now the average receipts
of some of the railways in England are about 5s. per train
mile, and on passenger lines they usually somewhat exceed
that figure. Our expenses per train mile have been only Is. 7}d.
The expenses of an ordinary steam railway are 2s. 9d. So that,
you see, our expenses per train mile are very much lower than in
the case of steam trains. But, of oour^, our trains don't carry as
iBTge a number of passengers as those on an ordinary steam rail-
way. I will come to that point directly. Our total expenses
appear to be very high—they always are high in the early stages
of a new raUway —they amount to 76 per cent, of the receipts lor
the half-year. But when you compare them with those of an
ordinary railway you must recollect that we have, in addi-
tion to the traffic of a steam railway, the lifts which
t^e the passengers up and down, which are, of course,
Suite extraneous to ordmary railway working on the surface.
I you deduct the cost of working these lifts, you will find that
our expenses for the past half-year are reduced to 66^ per cent, of
our earnings, which is a fair comparison with a steam railway. If
our receipts had also increased at so fair a rate that instead of
having a little over £20,000 we had had £30,000. we could have
carried that traffic at little or no practical increase in expenses,
and our working expenses would have been reduced from 66^ per
cent, to 45 per cent., which is lower, as you know, than almost
any steam railway in the kingdom. In the early stages of a railway,
as I said, the percentage of expenses is always higher than is the
case afterwards, as the traffic develops. I will give you one or two
instances which will show you this. The Brighton Company's
expenses in 1867 were 85 per cent, of their receipts. Their
expenses last half-year were 48^ per cent, of their receipts. So that
you see the growth of traffic brings down that percentage very
largely. About the same time the London, Chatham, and Dover s
percentage was 71. Therefore, as far as our position compares
with theirs in point of age, we are very much in advance of what
they were at that time, because we are only a year old, but at the
time I have Quoted these railways were many years old. Our
expenses this naif-year have shown certain decreases, which have
unfortunately been counterbalanced by certain increases on the
other side. Some of these are such items as increase in compensa-
tions, one or two claims brought against the Company which we
thought it better to settle. They were not very just claims, but
they were small things, and have cost us £92. Rates and taxes
increased to the extent of £152 over last half-year. Locomotive
expenses have decreased by £383, and traffic expenses have
decreased bv £38. Maintenance of line has increased,
because we have the whole maintenance upon us this half-year,
whereas we had not in the last half-year. There is a small increase
in general charges. The result of this is that the expenses as com-
pared with the previous half-year show a trifiing decrease. I am
sure it will be very interesting to you, after we have had a year's
experience of working by electricity, that I should give some facts
and comparisons in regard to it» which we were not able to give
before. Of course we cannot say for a moment that the present
)
condition of our working is by any means perfect. We are im-
F roving it every day, ana I hope we are gomg to lessen its cost,
will give you a few of the results which we have learned so far
during our experience of the last 12 months. Look, first, at our
locomotive expenses, which are, after all, the key to the question
of electricity verms steam. These expenses are 7'88d. per train
mile. Now, the locomotive expenses of the main lines of the country,
such as the North- Western, Great Western, Midland, and Great
Northern, will be something over 9d. per train mile over the past
half- vear, against our 7 '88a. But that is not all. Our charge of
7'88d. includes a price for coal which covers all the carriage irom
collieries and carriage to our dep6t. In the accounts of the other
companies the coal is charged as at the pit's mouth, and there is
no cartage put on it at all. If you deduct from our accounts for
coal the amount which we should have paid for it if we had been in
the position of the other companies, you will find that our cost per
train mile is reduced to 6 '6a. against their charge of 9d. The
expenses per train mile of the large companies which pay carriage
on coal, such as the Brighton, are not 9d. , but over lOd. In refer-
ence to the relative economy of electricity and steam, it will be
interesting to consider what are the advantages which we can
claim for electricity. We have told you in our report that "after
the experience of the past year, there is every reason to be satisfied
with the use of electricity as a motive power for the working of
this railway, and for a confident belief that when all the details are
fully perfected it will be found to be at once safe, convenient, and
economical." Its safety we have proved, because we have had no
accidents. Its convenience is, I think, proved, and will be far
more so in the future than in the past. Its economy is what I am
now coming to. I have told yon that our expenses were Is. 7|d.,
against the usual steam railway figure of 2b. 9d. per train mile.
Their (the steam railways) reply to that is, of course, "Your
trains are very much smaller and lighter." Well, that is perfectly
true. But you must reoollect this, that the average number of
people that we take in a train — in fact, have taken in the last
nali-year — is 47. We are really capable of taking three times that
amount. The ordinary steam trains all over the country carry 45
passengers per train mile, and the rest of what they carry is
deadweight, that is not paying them. I hold that, instead
of running huge trains only partially filled, it is better
to run smaller and lighter trains which hold a vastly larger
proportion of passengers to their weight ; and that you had
oetter increase the number of these light trains than have fewer
ones of very much heavier weight. It is more conducive to the
public convenience, and in the end will, I think, be found more
economical. One of the results of our working is this : In an
ordinary steam train it is generally reckoned that a ton weight of
carriages will provide for three passengers. Of course I am not
speaking of trains like the Pullman, but of ordinary ones. In our
trains for every ton of weight we can accommodate five persons,
so you will see that in our electrical arrangements we have a
decided advantage in point of weight over a steam railway. I
was very much surprised on reading a report of the Metropolitan
Railway meeting the other day to see it stated that that very
able and experienced railway chairman. Sir Edward Watkin^
whom we look upon as an especial expert in rail-
way matters, and whose opinion i3 always valuable — had
told his shareholders that he had considered the question
of electricity, but that he understood that an electrical
engine could only draw a train equal to its own weight. Now let
us see how far that is correct. An ordinary steam-passenger
locomotive such as run on our main line^ will take, it is usu^ly
reckoned, three times its own weight behind it. That is to say —
I am speaking of passenger trains — that if you have an engine
80 tons in weight, it will take 240 tons behind it. Our electric
engines are at the present moment always taking more than three
times, and even four times their own weight. And you must
recollect that in running over our line we are taking that weight up
an incline, the ruling gradient of which is I in 27, Mdth a
reverse curve of about two chains in radius. Now Sir Eklward has
not got a steam engine which will take an incline like
that. We are therefore surpassing with electricity the powers of
steam relatively to the work done. These are important facts to have
learned in our last twelve months. Our average speed of working
at the present moment is 13 miles an hour, including stoppages.
We ought to work, and we reckon to work, rather faster than that,
and we hope to do so one of these days, but you will recollect that
that is considerably abo^'e the average speed of Metropolitan Inner
Circle trains. They don't attain a speed of 13 miles an hour
including stoppages. I think I have shown you in figures that
although electricity is only in its infancy as regards this line,
which Ls the first of its kmd, and has only been in operation a
year, and there has been no time or opportunity to really perfect
it, though we improve it from day to day, I think you will see
that electric power in the future is not a matter that the engineers
can afford to despise. I confess that, having had a very long expe-
rience of the management of steam railways in this country and
elsewhere, I cannot help feeling that the facts that we have ieamt
in the past year point to the substitution very largely, and at no vexy
distant date, of electricity for steam over the railways of the worla.
It is always well when you have got to a certain point to look back
and see what your expectations were. If you wiU look back to our
original prospectus— it only referred to the line to The Elephant
and Castle— you will find that we estimated for a very high traffic.
I believe, if you will follow our advice and allow us to carry out
the plans that we have in view, that the time is not very distant
when these traffic expectations may be realised, large as they were.
If you look also at the expenditure, you will find tnat in our first
estimate— and you recollect that that was an estimate based upon
what was supposed to be an extremely economical mode of working.
tfiE ELECtRiCAL ENGtNfiER, t'EBRUARV 5, 1892.
141
▼is., the cable Bystem — the amoant of our expenses proportionately
per mile rather exceeds the amoant at which we are now work-
inff. After I had gone into that estimate very carefully, I con-
eidered in very doubtfal if it could be adhered to, that it was too
low, and in the second orospeotus we raised it considerably. I
don't think, from what I know, that it would be possible to work
this line bv a cable system, even if we desired to do so. The cable
is an excellent system for certain purposes, and it is extremely
good where there are a number of hills, because there you get the
effect of gravitation one wav helping to ascend the other. On the
other hand, to work a railway sucn as this with the enormous
traffics we should have, and are likely to have, by the cable, would
involve an enormous strain on that cable, and would require a very
strong and heavy one— so heavy that its weight would probably be
twice the weight of all our locomotives put together. Then the
difficulty of working round a curve, and the friction involved in
working over pulleys in a line of this kind, would be very great. It
appears to me, therefore, that our views as to expenses are fully borne
out. It 18 clear that if you have that very large weight (the cable)
to move before you move the train, combined with friction, you
csannot have as economical an arrangement as with light electric
engines. I think, therefore, you wiU see that we are justified in
what we have stated in the leport, and that the future of our
electrioil working is a very promising one indeed. Most of our
line — nine-tenths of it — is a good one and well constructed ; one-
tenth, I am sorry to say, has been an engineering blunder— that is
to say, King William-street Station and the inclmes leading to it.
The station is too short, the inclines are too severe, and the curves
are very heavy indeed as you come into it. We want, if we can,
to add another carriage to our train. We can't do it because of
King William-street Station. The inclines also up to that station
are at the present moment involving us in a vast expense for
additional power, that would be quite unnecessary if we could get
rid of them, and if we could do this we could work the line very much
cheaper. The station cannot be enlarged, because there is the Monu-
ment in front of us, and we are not allowed to approctch nearer to
that structure, while on each side we have very large buildings,
the ground on which they stand being mostly nuuie ground,
having been raised at the time that London Bridge was built.
Therefore we have only to consider if we cannot in some way get
rid of the station and inclines, which constitute only a very small
portion of our line, a few hundred yards, and fortunately not a
very expensive portion, while it woula always be extremely useful
even if we substituted other lines for it at a future date. In order
to improve and get our line into such a condition that we can
work it eoonomically and meet the growing traffic, we think there
is no means other than by making a through station in the City
instead of having a terminable one. All the steam railways that
come into the City, with the exception of the Metropolitan, have
terminal stations, and much they regret that this is so. Everyone
of the terminal stations are taxed to their utmost with a constantly
increasing traffic, and have a problem to solve which it will take
the very wisest heads to deal with in the future. With a
terminal station it takes from four to five times as long to deal
with a train as it would if it was a through station. So you have
to have large siding accommodation, which is always getting
choked, and yet it is almost impossible to extend it. Vou know
the enormous expenditure the Great Eastern are going to in
widening Liverpool-street Station, and yet it will only be a few
▼ears bcttore the block will come upon them again. With all this
knowledge before us we feel that before we have gone to the
expense of making an extensive terminal station, it is wiser at
ODce to take the Une through the City, and make our terminal
station where we can acquire land at very small cost. If we can
have through services you will at once see the enormous difference
they 'vnll make. We can deal at once with the growing traffic ;
we csm accommodate the excess traffic in the morning and
evening, and at very much less cost per train mile than we are
doing now. We have power far in excess of our immediate wants —
if only we could utilise it we could work a much longer length of
line than we are able to do now. All this points to the wisdom
and desirability of carrying out the plans which we have now
deposited in Parliament (Islington Extension Bill). We have
looked about us to see in what way we can make these plans
work as economically as possible. We have arranged with the
Brighton Company for a station at the bottom of Denman-street,
and they will be able to throw upon us at once a large passenger
traffic. The moment that station is opened it would be utilised
to a very large extent quite apart from the additional facility it
would give to our own line, and the traffic that would naturally
come mm passing through the City, and the traffic promises
for that line are exceedingly good in every way. But we fett, in our
present financial condition, we might have some difficulty in
raising capital to carry out the work ; we have therefore taken power
for carrying out such portions of it as are necessary by inaepen-
dentoapitaL Havinff control of it, however, we can make arrange-
inentA by which this Company will have all the benefit without the
risk, and I think we see our way to find the capital This question
of independent capital or not, is not to be determined now, but
after tne Bill has been obtained. It will then rest with the
Company whether they carry out the work or not. I would gladly
have poetponed the application to Parliament if we could. We
oonsiaerea every possiDle means of coming to you and saying, '* It
is desirable to postpone it " ; and it is only under the strongest
feeling that you cannot, with proper regard to the interests of this
Company, postpone that application — no ! not for a year — that we
pat it b«ore you. We have considered the matter in every way,
and we have oome to the absolute positive conclusion, that it is
•iseotial to the interests of the Company that that Bill should go
DO. Wa ask you as Directors—we have a good deal of knowledge
which we cannot quite impart to you, because it would only
injure the Company — we ask you for your confidence and to pass
the Bill. If there are any here who think that that Bill is
not in the interests of the Company, then as far as I am
concerned I must bow to your decision, but I say that I am not pre-
rred to carry bn the business of the Company if this is your mind,
am so thoroughly and completely convinced that the future
success of this line is promptly assured if that Bill croes on, and is
certainly risked if it doesn't, that I am prepared to place my
position before you on that question. I now beg to move that the
report and accounts be received and adopted.
This was seconded by Kr. Samiison Banbury.
Kr. Tnmlmll asked as to the hitches that had occurred on the
line from time to time.
Kr. Drake thought their little enterprise ought not to be com-
pared with large railway undertakings. Theirs was a useful and
might prove a profitable line, but it was very small, and if they
carried out the Clapham extension in accordance with the Bill they
had obtained but not utilised, he thought they might hope even-
tually to attain to a fair remuneration for the money tney had
expended. Whatever was the outcome of the application to
Parliament for the extension to Islington, one thing was very
certain— viz., that heavy charges would come upon that Company.
Lawyers, philanthropists though they were, did not work for
nothing as a rule. The line was esteemed by all to have the three
points of safety, speed, and comfort. It was a necessity now for
the locality through which it ran. He would submit that having
3d. to spend, they should not try to make it do the work of 2s. fid. or
3s. He advocated the carrying out of the extension to Clapham,
by doing which they would be making certain if slow progress.
Mr. MIddletoB congratulated the Board on the reduction in
running expenses, but would impress on them that there was yet
scope for considerable further reduction in his opinion. He hoped
they and the officials would devote their energies to this question
rather than to that of the extension.
Kr. Van Lann asked whether it was a fact that electricity as a
motive power had practically failed on that line. He felt sore at
coming year after year to hear the same story that they were not
to receive a dividend. They did not want to be too hard on the
Directors ; still, they were responsible for what the engineers had
done, and the engineers had practically misled the Company. He
noticed, with a certain amount of bitterness, that they were asked
to extend this failure. He represented two companies that held
£10,000 in the Compa,ny*B shares, and they wanted to know why
the shares stood at the price they did. His directors were under
the impression that this experiment had failed, and although the
Directors had succeeded in payinor debenture interest by careful
management, yet th^y were in the unfortunate position that if
some mistake the engineers had made was not corrected they
would never receive a dividend on the ordinary shares.
The Clialrman said he would reply to Mr. Van Laun first. He
could certainly assure that gentleman that, so far from considering
electricity a failure, he thought, from what they knew of it, it was
the most decided success from the point of view of locomotion,
and promised to be in every way a most satisfactory mode of
working that line of railway. Of course, they could not be
supposed to earn a dividend until they had worked the line,
and they had only had one year in which to work it. During
that time they had not only paid their debenture interest,
but they had carried forwardf an amount that might have been
distributed in a very minute dividend. The Board did not wish
this, however, because they believed that when they next met the
shareholders it would be to declare a dividend on the ordinary
stock. He confessed he did not see any reason to suppose that
they would not be in a position to do so, provided everything went
on as they arranged, if shareholders thought the Directors were
not to be trustea, then, of course, they must not hold the Board
responsible for the results of the future. He could only say that
their experience was that electricity was in every way a satis-
factory power. As to the stoppages on the line. They were under
the glare of the light of public opinion, which was directed on
them at the present moment as a new undertaking, and people
tried to find out every possible fault they could. They aid
have stoppages, and not unfrequently, generally lasting from
five to ten minutes, seldom more than that. Unfortunately,
they always occurred during the busy time, and arose from the
strain that was put on the motors of the engines in coming up the
incline into King William-street. It had been found in the course
of time that the mode of winding the original armatures was nob
perfectly satisfactory, and owing to this short circuits took place.
These would have been remedied at once if the Company had had
a large surplus stock of locomotives, but they had not, and they
could only take them off as they could be spared. This had been
going st^kdily on for some time. They were rewinding the arma-
tures, and had had no breakdowns with those that had been
rewound. As the process could only be carried out by degrees, every
now and then an old armature would break down. But if they
were delayed 10, 20, or 30 minutes on any of the leading railways
entering London, they did not at once write to the papers. Whereas,
if they were delayed on the City and South London for 10 minutes,
such was the confidence of the public in it that they were always
expected to be punctual, and so it was thought more of. In
course of time, when the armatures were completed, these break-
downs would be of very rare occurrence. The strain of coming
up the incline to King William-street was, however, very great
(a steam locomotive oould not do it), and would always involve a
waste of power. They were doing all they could to reduce
expenditure, and so far from being unable to make the line pay,
there was no doubt they could make it remunerative up to a
certain point. He was quite sure that if they did not look forward
142 TflE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, EEBllUARY 6, 189^.
and go for that Bill (the Islington Extension), they would be very
sorry for it in the future. He had no interest in saying this
beyond the interest of the concern. He told them, from his experi-
ence and knowledge and from information the Board possessed,
that they would be extremely foolish if they did notj autnorise the
Directors to carry out the policy they had most carefully con-
sidered. He then put the motion for the adoption of the report,
which was carried unanimously.
Mr. C. R. Grenfell proposed the re-election of the retiring
director, Mr. C. (>. Mott (the chairman) remarking that they must
have come to the conclusion, from what they had seen of him, that
he was the right man in the right place.
Mr. Xdwln Tate seconded, and the motion was carried unani-
mously.
The Chalnnui briefly returned thanks for his re-election,
remarking that the City and South London had hardlv been out
out of his thoughts for years. He was mo^t thankful that at last
he saw daylight, and a future which, if only shareholders would
trust the B(Mird, would place it in a far better position than
any other railway in this country.
The auditors, Messrs. Turquand, Youngs, and Co., having been
re-elected, the Cliainnaii moved that the dividend of 5 per cent,
on the preference shares be declared, which was duly seconded and
carried.
The meeting then resolved itself into a special general meeting
to approve or otherwise of the Bill empowering the City and South
London Company '* to make an underground railway to Islington,
and for other purposes," which is being promoted in the present
session of Parliament.
The Solicitor having read the principal clauses of the Bill,
The Cliairmaii, in moving that the Bill be approved, said he
had already dealt with it, but he would like to explain more
exactly the necessity for it. He had touched on the objections to
that part of their line running under the Thames and into King
William-street Station. They had already got power to make a
station at the end of Denman-street, which led from the Borough
to the London Bridge Station of the Brighton C'Ompany. They
were unable to carry out this work, however, because they found
that the Brighton traffic was very large, and came in in
immense quantities just at the time when they were busiest on
their own line, so that if they had made the station they could not
carry the traffic, because they could not work sufficient trains into
King William-street Station. It would require a very large and
rapid train service in addition to that which they had now. There
was a great outcry amongst both South -Eastern and Brighton
travellers because they had no means of getting into the City,
except by walking over London Bridge, and he (the Chairman) did
not see that there was any other mode than by such a line as he
had proposed. Other companies were in the same condition. The
South- VVe^tern had deposited a Bill for making an electric
railway from Waterloo Station to the Mansion House, and the
Great Northern had deposited a Bill for making a similar line
from their junction at Finsbury to Finsbury-circus. All of them
thought that these railways were the best and only means of
getting^ into the City. The Brighton Company had agreed that
they (tne City and South London) should construct a subway from
their proposed station to the former company's platforms, and
passengers would walk down to Denman-street Station and thence
Set into the City. In order to get rid of the present incline, and
ave a fairly good one into the City, they proposed to so back
further than iJen man -street, and join on to tneir present line, and
to make two new tunnels from that point past Denman-street
ttnder the river, coming out at the upper part of King William-
street, near Lombard-street. The line would then be continued under
the Central London Railway, with whose Mansion House Station
it would have communication, and thence up Fenchurch -street
and along Moorgate-street to the Metropolitan Station, with
which it was proposed to connect, and also with the Finsbury
Station of the Great Northern Railway. The line would then
be continued by the City-road, with two intermediate stations,
until it TOt close to The Angel at Islington. Here there was
plenty of space and cheap land, and here they could deal
with a rapid morning and evening service at a moderate cost.
The line should collect an enormous mid-day traffic, which was
one thing they wanted to make large diviaends. The cost of
carrying out the proposed line would be very moderate per mile,
not as much, he tnouKht, as the present line had cost. The only
special expenses woum be for stations, and in connection with the
most expensive of these they had promises by which they would be
able to largely recoup the expenditure. The line had been very
carefully laid out with a view to the greatest possible economy in
construction. The Chairman then reiterated his former remaiks
as to the impossibility of postponing the Bill, and explained the
reasons for not doing so. It was a matter on which they must
have confidence in the Board. Had they, he said, with some
feeling, deserved a want of confidence, had they done anything
that shareholders ought not to have confidence in them ? On
•the contrary, he thought the time was come when the shareholders
would acknowledge that the labours of the Board had not been in
vain.
the short line, the City and South London, should have a fair trial
that everything should be done that could be done to prove whethe
or not it could be worked at a profit. The time seemed somewha
distant when they were to have any ordinary dividend The
Chairman himself had said that the line was a good one, and
a good and improving property, and he would counsel share-
ho&ers to remain with that and work upon the lines of improving
rather than extending it until they saw where they were.
He was afraid there was a feeling abroad that they were a
railway only, and wanted to ^et further afield. The original
idea of that line was one to get tne people of South London into
the City ; let them carry that out and improve the working before
exfiending their capital of £800,000, and adding to it a capital of
one million odd. He would beg to pro|X>se an amendment, that in
the opinion of that meeting the Bill be not proceeded with for the
present. The time might come when they might find it advan-
tageous for them to go to Islington. If they could get a threo
minutes' service on the line it would add 25 per cent, to their
receipts without adding anything hardly to their costs. He
thought they should delay extensions until they were justified in
carrying them out. There was the Clapham extension which had
not been gone on with, why was that?
The Chairman pointed out that there was no object in moving
an amendment, because that was a direct negative. It would be
enough to vote against the motion.
Mr. Mooatta said that it had been steted that if the Bill were gone
on with, it could be carried out by an independent company. It
had also been stated that the great advantages to be derived in the
future would not come to them unless the matter was token in
hand at once. Was it not advisable to take the stop recommended
while not committing themselves to anything, because others would
carry out the Bill ?
The Chairman was very sorry Mr. Middleton should take the
view he did upon the subject. He could not help thinking that the
wiser course was represented in what Mr. Mocatte nad said.
They were not going to propose to carry out the extension
without the further assent of the shareholders. It was merely
a question whether they would get the power. They could
decide afterwards as to carrying it out. The Board thought
the arrangemente should be in the hands of that Com-
pany rat^r than that an independent party should come
in and the Company have to make terms with them after-
wards instead of they with the Company. Mr. Middleton
asked why the Clapham extension had not been carried out.
He thought it was all the more crediteble to the Board that it had
not been carried out, because they did not quite see until more
perfect arrangements were made that the Clapham extension was
going to add materially to the line. Having once again made a
strong appeal to the shareholders to have confidence in the Board,
he put tne motion ; the figures for which were announced as 26 in
favour, and 5 against. The Chairman accordingly declared it
carried.
BCr. Middleton demanded a poll, which was fixed for that day
week (next Tuesday) at the office of the Company at 12 o'clock,
the poll to remain open until 2 o'clock. Mr. James L. Oliver,
of Newcastle, was nominated as scrutineer on behalf of Mr.
Middleton, and Mr. Donald MacMillan for the Directors.
The proceedings then closed with a vote of thanks to the
Chairman.
Haahiury seconded the motion.
Mr. Middleton, before going into the merite of the case, wished
to entirely disabuse the mind of the Chairman and his colleagues
as to any opposition on this point having anything to do with a
matter of personal confidence in the Board. He thought the way
n which tne Chairman was re-elected should show that. As to
the proposed Bill, he entirely and absolutely— speaking on behalf
of £270)000 worth of stock — disapproved of this extension to
sljn^ton for many reasons. He—andhis co-shareholders —thought
ANGLO-AMERICAN TELEGRAPH COMPANY.
The half-yearly general meeting of this Company was held on
Friday last at Winchester House, Mr. Francis A. Bevan presiding
in the absence, through illness, of the Marquis of Tweeddale (the
chairman of the Company).
The Chairman saia he could quite understand that on reading
the report there might have been a certain amount of disappoint-
ment at the result of the year's working. There had been scarcely
any increase in the receipts, for he might explain that of the
increase of £6,000 odd, about £4,000 was really a matter of account.
There had been an increase in their expenses, but they had had to
open new stetions in order to meet the very powerful competition
which they had to contend against, and they had had to spend rather
more than usual upon cable repairs. He was glad to say that t^e
new year had opened better. From the 1st to the 28th inst. there
had been daily increases of £50 in their receipts, and if business
became better there was no doubt that they would share in the
good resulte that would ensue. A shareholder had suggested that
they should increase the dividend by teking something from the
renewal fund. It appeared, however, to the Directors that
this would not be a wise proceeding. The renewal fund
was the backbone of their Company. At the present
time their Brest-St. Pierre cable was broken in deep
water, something over 1,000 fathoms, and they were endeavour-
ing to repair it. They could not say how much the repair
would cost ; they could not say even whether they could repair it,
though probably they could. It would be most unwise, therefore,
to whittle away, as he might call it, their renewal fund. They
heard sometimes that they compared very unfavourably with their
rival, the Commercial Company, but they had to pay on a very
large capitel as compared with their rivals, and therefore the
comparison after all was not so unfavourable, teking also into
account the further fact that the Commercial Company had two
new cables, which did not require the repairs that old cables
did, and that they had an enormous pull in their connections in
America.
The motion was seconded by Sir James Anderson and carried
after a discussion.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 5. 1892.
143
CENTRAL LONDON BAILWAT COMPANY.
tho ChMmuD, Mr. F. A. Lucas, preeidiiiK'
The K»owmtmrj, Mr. Mateedorf, having r«ad the uotice cod-
VKiiDK the roeetitig,
The Ch>lrnu>a said he was not doing bo make a speech, aa thli
v«« merely a formal meeting held in puraaanee of the Act of
Parllameot. No ahares had yet baeo iasuad to the public, and eo
that waa practically a meotinK of corporatora. The onlj boaineei
waa to re-elect the retiring directois, and he proposea that the
following gentlemen be re-elected— viz., MeBsra. De Cnuio, F. A.
Lacaa, H. Mosentbal. and D. Pariah.
Thii haviog been aeoonded, was carried unanimoDilv.
The meeting then became epeoial to conBider and approve of
the Bill promoted by the Company, which has been depodted
io the House of Commons.
The Okalmun called upon the solicitor, Mr. Morria, to explain
tJie objecta of the Bill. In doing thia the Bolleltra' said that by
the Act of IBSl the Central London Company, which was incor-
porated by that Act, was authorised to make a railway six miles
■n length from Shepherd's Bush to Cornbill. By the Bill then
before the meeting it was proposed to alMndon ao much of the autho-
rised railway as was in C'Ornhiil, and instead of havinfr a terminal
station there, to continue the line up Threadneedle- street and
Broad-street to the Liverpool Station of the Great Eastern
Railway, with which, as well as with tbe station of the North
L^indon Railway at Broad-street, it would be connected by
subways.
Tbe Chalmu moved the approval of the Bill, which waa
aeoonded by Kr. KaeentlULl, and carried unanimously.
COMPANIES' REPORTS.
HEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNB ELECTRIC SUPPLY COMPANY.
Dr.
BALANCE-SHEET, SlsT DECEMBER, ISDl.
£ s. d. £
1,000 0 0
Nominal capital—
10,000 shares of £6 each
Present issue, 5,000 sbarea of £5
each '25,000
IsBued and allotted—
4.06eBhareBof £4 per share called up 16,264
802 ,. £3 „ ,, 2,406
4,868 lS,eTO
Add calls paid inadvance£t,.W2, less
calls due Sth Jan., IB92, £550, and
calUiDarrear£lOO 682
orteage debentures
undry accounts
Profit and loss account~pro6t for year to date ..
CraJHtei
Capital expenditure to date—
Buildings and plant 29,427 6
MetKn, transformers, etc 4,159 17
Loose plants and tools
Office furniture
Preliminary and formation expenaes
Stocks and work in progress
Debtors— on current supply 1,106 IT
sundry debtors 1,128 IB
Cash I
bankers on deposit,
ith
£40,040 0 C
PROKIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT, 31st DECEMBER, 1891
Station charges— Solar
, wages, coal, water, and
1,982 ID
307 li
385 16
1,668 3
Rent, rates, taies, and insurance
General charges-OiBce salaries, let;al
ancy chargeB, stationery, stamps, t*
and acconnt-
legrams,etc.
11
1
£ s.
610 13
fil 0
d.
9
8
£4,677
£
661
1,006
14
a.
14
8
8
7.
S
Cr. £ e. d. £ s. d.
Current supply 4,300 13 7
Public lamp supply 27 6 7
4,328 0 2
Apparatus rent 343 11 7
Profit on sale of lamps 4 2 II
£4,677 14 8
Balance brought down, being gross profit for year .... 1,668 3 0
Balance brought down, being net profit for one year. 1,006 8 7
BUSINESS NOTES.
WoM Indl» HKl Pmuwui Telaumph Companj.— The reoefpta
for the half-month ended January 31 were £2,7.15, against £3,791.
Dlroct Bpanlah Toleiimph Cempany.— Tbe receipts for laat
month wero £2,195, against £2,147 for January, 1S9I, showing an
increase of £48-
Kaawm Telesrapli C«mpaitr.— The receipts for Januaiy
were £63 436, against £60,005 for the same period of 1891,
showing an increase of 4^3,431.
■aMon ■ztsoolen Talesrapll C«mpaii7.— The receipts for
January amounted to £42,805, gainst £46,575 in the corre-
sponding period, sbowing a decrease of £3,770.
Cltr and Sontti Loadon Rallwair. — The receipts for tbe week
ending Jan. 31 were £823, E^ainst £703 for the same period of
last year, being an increase or£I20. The total receipts for January
show an increase oF £3!i0 over last year. As compared with the
week ending Jan, 24th, last week's reoeipts show an increase of £11,
Tbe Cuba Bnbmarlne Tslecrapb Cempaiiy, after providing for
the dividend on the preference shares, recommend a dividend on the
ordinary shares at the rate of S per cent, per annum, tax free.
The traffic receipts for January were £3 500, as compared with
£2,4.39 in the corresponding period of last year, an mcrease o
£1,061.
Edlaon and Swan Cempanj. — At a meeting of the Directors on
2nd inst., it was resolved that a payment on account of the divi-
dend of the current year be mode on the 89,301 shares, £3 paid,
of 5s. 3d. per share : on the 5,000 fully-paid shares, allotted to the
Edison Comiiany, 8s, 9d, per share ; on the 12, 139 fuUy-paid shares,
allotted to the Swan United Company, 7s. Bd. per sharo. The divi-
dend warrants will be issued on the 'i2nd inst.
at. Jamea'a and Fall Mall Company -The poll on the question
as to whether Mr. Egerton Clarke should be re-elected a director
of this C'Ompany, which wss taken last Tuesday at the Company's
offices, resulted in his favour by a small majority. He therefore
returns to the Board The circumstances which led to his
re-election being challenged were fully given in our report of the
above Company s meeting, vide last week's Eltctrical Bngmar.
CompanlM Reslatared daring Jnnnniy, — The following
electrical companies were registered daring the past month :
Electric Fittings Hiring and Maintenance Company,
Limited, £5and£l shares £300,600
Elmore's American and Canadian Patent Copper Depoait-
ing Company, Umited, £2 shares 200,000
Reading Electric Supply Company, Limited, £5 shares.,, 75,000
PROVISIONAL PATENTS. 1892.
Janparv 18.
909. An Improred brake tot elactrontoton or fW ipaoWii—
drlTBd bj eleotroiBotara. Henry Robert Low and
Benjamin Creigh, 41, Beaconsfield-road, St. Margaret's,
Twickenham, Middlesex.
982. Imprvremanta In or oannBOtetf wltb tbe mnnnltotitre or
prodnotlon of oblorlde of sine and alkaline anlphmW,
and of line and oblorlna by elaetrolyala of aolntlonn
tliereoff. Thomas Parker, Alfred Edward Robinson, and
Charles Henry Parker, 47, Lincoln's- inn -fields, London.
January 19.
1038. A new or Improred mannfaetnre «f nn anoltlng mntwUl
Ar inlTanle battortea. Hugo Koller, 46, Linooln's- inn-
fields, London.
IMl. Improred means of ■•neratlns aloebiolty far bnlldlagfc
Sarah Jane Koliaaon, 50, Goldburst-t«rrace, Sonth Hamp-
Btead, London,
1061. :
fscBlaby aleBtreljpala, Eugine Hermite, II, Wellington-
street. Strand, London.
Improremsmta In elaetarle alf allla» on tndaa. Alexander
Shiels, 70, Wellington. street, Glasgow.
Jandart 20.
tad wltb t
144 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 5, 1892.
I
1141. Improvements In dry electrical elements. Cseaar Vogt,
Temple-chambers, London.
1143. Improvements connected with electric elevntors nnd
motors. American Elevator Company, Incorporated, 55,
Chancery-lane, London. (Otis Bros, and Co., United
States.) (Complete specification.)
1145. Improvements in the mannflsctiire of siliceons insnlatlng
materiel for deotrical and other purposes. Henry Alf ord
Walker, 433, Strand, London.
1147. Improvements in telephones. Henry Edward Newton, 6,
Bream's-buildings, London. (Parnell Rubbidge, New
South Wales.) (Complete specification.)
January 21.
1163. Improvements in oonnectioa with the hrnshes of electric
generators and motors. Jame6 Young and Robert
Simpson, 4, Moorfields, London.
1185. Improvements in stopping and starting pendulum clocks
hy means of electrioity; the same applies to double
pendulum movement as used in electricity meters.
William Green, 11, Stormont-road, Lavender-hill, London.
1216. Improvements in electric cut-outs. Hugo Korton, 54,
Fleet-street, London.
January 22,
1254. The automatic electric Intermittent illuminating sign or
lamp. Frederick James Jones, 21, Foregate-street, Chester.
1208. An improved tahle for telegraph instruments. Katie
Vonbora Miller, 55, Chancery-lane, London.
130S. Improvements connected with electric targets. John
Forrest Walters, 166, Fleet-street, London.
1313. Improvements in electric motor cars. Sidney Howe
Short, 18, Buckingham-street, Strand, London. (Com-
plete specification.)
January 23.
1337. Improvements in hrushholders for dynamo machines.
Joseph Piatt Hall, 17, St. Ann's-square, Afanchester.
1340. Improvements in electrical switches and other apparatus
for making and hreaUng contact. Henry James Shed-
lock Heather, 2, Chancellor's-road, Hammersmith, London.
1375. Improvements in indicating apparatus for high-tension
circuits. Bernard Mervyn Drake and John Marshall
Qorham, 66, Victoria-street, Westminster, London.
1391. Improvements relating to the coating of articles with a
new metallic alloy hy electro-deposition. The London
Metallunzical Company, Limited, and Sherard Osbom
Cowper-Coles, 45, Southampton-buildings, London. (Com-
plete specification.)
1396. An automatio electric circuit hresker. Anton Eicbler,
4, South-street, Finsbury, London. (Complete specifica-
tion.)
1402. Improvements in *»^^t1ng hy the electric arc, and in
apparatus therefor. Henry Howard, 24, Southampton-
buildings, London.
January 25.
1426. Improvements in electrical hatteries. Cresacre (Jeorge
Moor, 13, Market-street, Penistone.
1436. Improvements in ftiction driving gear fur dynamo-elec-
tric and other like machinery. James Yate Johnson, 47,
Lincoln's-inn-fields, London. (Armand de Bovet, France.)
1459. Apparatus for adjusting commutators of dynamo-electric
machines and motors to vanring speed. William White,
James Radcliffe, and Frederick William Cooke, 28, South-
ampton-buildings, London.
1464. Improvements in holders or sockets for incandescent
electric lamps. Thomas Jenner, 77, Chancery-lane,
London.
January 26.
1479. An deotrical signalling and hraking apparatus specially
appUcaMe to raUway trains. Guy Hamilton and Ernest
Cockbum Day, 2, Lugar- place, Kelvinside, Glasgow.
1484. Improvements in and relating to secondary hatteries.
Justus Bulkley Entz and William Alfred Phillips, 70,
Market-street, Manchester. (Complete specification.)
1497. Improvements in couplings for electric wires. Alexander
Shiels, 159, Coldharbour-lane, Camberwell, London.
1552. Improvements in telephone transmitters. Joseph Goffin,
45, Southampton-buildings, London.
1557. Improvements in eleetromagnetic apparatus for pro-
ducing a reciprocating motion and for supplying inter-
mittent electric currents for that purpose. Richard
Threlfall, 45, Southampton -buildings, London. (Complete
specification.)
1571. An improved ineandeocent lamp. Ernest Frenot and
Georges Nouville, 46, Lincoln's-inn-fields, London. (Date
applied for under Patents Act, 1883, Section 103, July 21,
1891, being date of application in France.)
1580. An improved electric low^water alarm. Stephen Martin
Mathews, 53, Chancery-lane, London. (Complete specifi-
cation. )
January 27.
1626. An improvement or improvements in the holders or
carriers of eleetrioal incandescent or glow lamps.
BJcluurd Oearge Evered, 7, Staple-ion LondoD.
1637.
1641.
1656.
1666.
1682.
1695.
1734.
17.U
1748.
1752.
1786.
1829.
1852.
Improvements in and connected with telephones. George
Lee Anders and Walther Kbttgen, 55, Chancery-lane,
London.
Improvements in electromotors fdr deetrically - pro-
pelled vehieles. Alexander Siemens, 28, Southampton-
buildings, London.
Improvements in electric hrakes. James Yate Johnson,
47, Linooln's-inn-fields, London. (Armand de Bovet,
France.)
Januaby 28.
Improvements in electrically-operated means fdr pre-
venting railway collisions. George Coles, Bristol Bank-
buildings, Bristol.
Improvements in electrical are lamps. Oliver Firth,
Sunbridge-chambers, Bradford, Yorkshire.
Improvements in instruments for the measuremeut of
electromctive ferces. Thomas Parker and WUliam
Armistead, The Electric Construction Corporation, Limited,
Wolverhampton.
An improvement in electric compasses and course
recorders. Joseph von Peichl, 28, Southampton-build-
ings, London.
Improvements in electric dock mechanism. Alfred
Julius Boult, 323, High Holbom, London. (Frank Alex-
ander Ellis, .)
January 29.
Improvements in dynamo-electric machines. Bugen
Conrady and George William Brown, 56, Low-street,
Keighley, Yorkshire.
Improvements in microphones. Gustav Binswanger, 71,
Queen Victoria-street, London.
Improvements in or relating to tanning hy electricity.
Raffaele Pinna, 323, High Holborn, London.
January 30.
A portaMe deotric planing and polishing machine.
Malcolm Sutherland, Leven Shipyard, Dumbarton.
Improvements in apparatus for registering electric
and other ourrents. Henry Raison, 27, Martin's-lane,
Cannon -street, London.
Brushes, etc., for oleotrio maohines. Dowsing. 8d.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED
1891.
2518. Blectro-depesiting. Gibbings. 8d.
3426.
3553.
3738.
3893.
3957.
4120.
5003.
Xleotrio railwajrs. Thompson. (Reed.) 8d.
Xlectrolsrsing and hleaching. Marx. 8d.
Klectrical cahles. Glover and Preece. 8d.
Measuring eleotrioity. Miller and Woods. 6d.
Xlectrio incandescent lamps. Fryer. 8d.
Incandesoenoe electric lamps. Johnson. (Mace.) 8d.
12985. Electric railway signalling. Annesley and others. 8d.
14386. Kleotric motors. Dymond. (Gutmann). 8d.
14702. Secondary hatteries. Hauser. 8d.
16870. Dynamo-electric maohines. Sutcliffe and Atkinson. 6:1.
17614. Xlectrio wire couplings. Shiels. 6d.
17731. Xlectric motors. Linders. 6d.
17732. Xlectric motors. Linderp. 6d.
20604. Xleetrie motors. Lake. (Stanley and another.) 8d.
20629. Inoandesoent electric lamps. Dorman and Smith. 6d.
20678. XleetHc hurglar alarms. Pohl. 6d.
20840. Dynamo-electric machines. Nebel. 8d.
20913 Xleotrieally propelled vehicles. Dewey. 8d.
20924. Xleotrtc Are engines. Dewey. 8d.
20930. XlectrieaUy-propoUed vehicles. Dewey. 8d.
21442. Secondary batteries. Lake. (Roberts.) 4d.
21448. Inoandesoent lamps. Pitt. (Bohm.) 6d.
21449. Xlectrtcal switches. Howard. 6d.
21565. Microphone. Redfern. (Deckert.) 6d.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Brush Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, Gutta Percha k Telegraph Co
House-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone ,
Electric Construction
Westminster Electric
Liverpool Electric Sn I *p1y |
Price
Paid.
WedoM
day
_
84
2i
10
19i
5
&
—
91
5
n
Si
4
8|
5
4i
10
6i
^^«
7
5
5
8
2i
THE ELECrRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 12, 1892. 146
NOTES.
The Telephone Bill. — ^Various local boards are join-
ing together to oppose the National Telephone Company's
BiU.
Irftmbeth. — The formal notice of the revocation of the
Lambeth electric supply order has been received by the
London Coanty Council from the Board of Trade.
Chiehester. — The Lighting Committee of Chichester
are thinking of establishing a telephone line between the
eity and the water works pumping station at Fishbourne.
Bury. — At the Bury Town Council meeting last week
the report of the General Purposes Committee upon electric
lighting was brought forward, but further consideration
was adjourned.
Aberdeen. — It is proposed to extend the tramways at
Aberdeen for 1^ miles to the suburbs. Aberdeen should
be informed of the work of Leeds in running suburban
tramways by electricity.
Jonmalistlc. — The two editors of the newly-estab-
lished American ElectricUy^ Mr. Herbert Laws Webb and
Mr. George H. Guy, together with Mr. Paine, their
business manager, have resigned.
New Zealand. — Messrs. Postlethwaite and Stephenson
have purchased the going business of the New Zealand
Engineering Company in Dunedin. Special attention is to
be given to electrical engineering.
Swanaea. — The speculative builder is not going to be
behind the times. One contractor at Swansea is fitting up
for electric light, inside and out, whole rows of middle-class
houses he is building in the suburbs.
Birmingham. — The process of electric welding was
explained and exhibited by Mr. A. Driver, engineer to the
Small Arms Company, at the company's works, at a
meeting of the Birmingham Mechanical Engineers.
Royal Meteorological Society. — A "Note on a
Lightning Discharge at Thornbury, Gloucestershire, July
22nd, 1891," will be read by Ernest H. Cook, D.Sc, before
the Royal Meteorological Society on Wednesday next
Fnlham. — The Fulham Vestry has a£Sxed its seal to a
petition against the application of the Putney and Hammer-
smith Electric Light and Power Supply Company for a
provisional order to supply the district with electricity.
Gibraltar. — It will be remembered that some time ago
Mr. W. H. Preece, F.S.S., was commissioned to report
upon the lighting of Malta and Gibraltar for the Govern-
ment. We learn that the lighting of Gibraltar has now
been determined upon.
CheltenhanL — The surveyor of Cheltenham, finding
that the cost of lighting the town destructor would be £70
for pipes and fittings alone, and that for less than that sum
an efficient system of electric light could be provided, has
fitted up the installation, which the Council have approved.
IdTcrpool Telephonic Dinner. — The second anand
dinner of the Liverpool branch of the National TeleplKMie
Company's employes was held on Saturday, when 70
persons sat down to dinner, music, and speeches. The
transmission of the remarks and music in this case was by
ordinary old-fashioned sound vibrations.
Chnrch Telephones in Glasgow. — The proposal of
the National Telephone Company to establish a telephone
service with St George's Church, Glasgow, was referred to
the Kirk Session for remarks, some members of the council
observing it would be a distinct encouragement to non-
attendance, and might influence the seat-letting.
PersonaL — Mr. W. J. Hammer, the well-known elec-
trical expert, who organised the Edison exhibit at the Paris
Exhibition, is now in London, and is staying at the Hotel
Savoy. For the past two years he has been carrying on a
consulting practice, and is now visiting Europe in the
interest of some of his clients in electrical matters.
Society of Arte.— The last of Prof. Forbes's lectures
on "Electrical Distribution" will be given before the
Society of Arts next Monday, dealing with generators of
electricity by water power and by steam from destructors ;
account of destructors ; hydraulic accumulator ; utilisation
of local circumstances; probable developments in the
future.
Bermondeey. — At last week's meeting of the
Bermondsey Vestry the General Purposes Committee
reported that the surveyor had seen the engineer of the
London Electric Supply Company, and found there was no
difiSculty in lighting the streets by electricity. The
surveyor would bring up an estimate of the cost at the next
meeting.
Blackbnm. — The Blackburn Corporation are taking
up the electric lighting question vigorously, and have com-
missioned Mr. Thomas Buiton, electrical engineer, to map
out a large central area for illumination with the eleetric
light. The Corporation's parliamentary powers expire in
August next, and it is intended to have at least 2,000 lights
going before then.
Train Liirhtinflr. — ^An experimental train, consisting
of new American buffet and drawing-room cars, was run
on Tuesday over the South-Eastern line to Dover. The
cars, which are very commodious, are luxuriously fitted
and have all the latest improvements, including the electric
light. It is understood that they will be run in connection
wiih the continental service.
London School Board. — ^A recent meeting of the
London School Board adopted a recommendation of their
Works Committee to spend £3,600, exclusive of fittings,
for an electric light installation for their enlarged offices.
The committee find that the whole of the offices can be
lighted by electricity for £550 a year, whereas even the
present gas bill is over £600 a year.
Clerkenwell. — ^The Clerkenwell Vestry intend to offer
no opposition to the application to the Board of Trade by
the Brush Electrical Engineering Company, asking for an
extension of time for making the deposit under the order
of 1891 until one month after the confirmation, refusal, or
withdrawal of the order now being applied for by the
County of London Electric Lighting Company.
DnHtown. — ^A display of electric light has been given
in Dufftown by Provost Symon in order to show the
superiority of the electric light over gas, and so popularise
the introduction of electricity into the town. A 2,000-c.p.
lamp was supplied by a dynamo driven by a traction engine.
At a meeting subsequently held it was almost unanimously
resolved to introduce the electric light at once.
Ooaet Conunnnication. — Amongst the notices of
motions before the present Parliament is one for March 4
by Sir Edward Birkbeck tp call attention to the loss of life
and property on our ooasts, and the necessity for improved
tel^;raphic and ielaphonic communication. All the forces
of naval, oooiiBeraal, and electrical circles should be called
up to give farce to Sir Edward Birkbeck's motion.
I>eelcn ef Dynamoe. — A meeting of the Association
of Birmingham Students of the Institution of Civil Engi-
neers was held on Thursday evening at the Midland
Institute, the president, Mr. J. Edward Willcox, A.M.I.C.K,
being in the chair. A paper was read b^ Vtt.'^.^^yS^^x
146 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 12, 1892.
Student Inst.C.K, " On the Design and Construction of
Dynamos," which was followed by an interesting discussion.
InTemesfl. — ^The proposal to light Inverness by elec-
tricity has been abandoned for the present. At a meeting
of the Town Council on Monday a motion was definitely
adopted discharging the committee appointed to investigate
the matter on the ground that the scheme would cost
between £30,000 and X40,000. At the same meeting it
was resolved to extend the gas works at an estimated cost
of £9,800.
■leetrlo Llirht and Tog, — ^A correspondent of the
Scotsman points out, with reference to the wreck of the
"Eider," that an electric beam can usually be seen at a
far greater distance if sent vertically into the sky instead of
horizontally. This was, we believe, found to be the case at
the Naval Exhibition, and it would be interesting to have
the combined experience of lighthouse engineers and seamen
upon this increasingly important subject.
Ckidalmiiiflr. — The Oodalming Electric Lighting Com-
mittee recommended at the last Town Council meeting
that the sum of X25 be paid to Messrs. Day and Co. for
charges and fees in connection with the electric lighting.
Alderman Grammon (one of the committee) stated that the
sum of 10 guineas was for getting up specifications for the
town and for plant, and was an entirely separate item.
The recommendation was unanimously adopted.
ZiSmton. — ^At the Lynton Local Board meeting last
week a letter was read from Mr. Green stating that he had
assigned all his rights in the electric works at Lynmouth
to Mr, Benn. A petition was read, signed by most of the
residents at Lynmouth, asking for a 2,000-c.p. arc light to
be placed on the Tower for the benefit of the fishermen
and the lighting of the Esplanade and lower part of Lyn-
mouth. This was referred to the Lighting Committee.
City Meat Market.— At the meeting of the Com-
jmissioners of Sewers on Tuesday the clerk read a letter
from the town clerk relative to a petition from Messrs.
Julius Sax and Co. to light the central markets with the
electric light, the Central Market Committee being anxious
to know the position in which the Commissioners stood in
regard to the present lighting arrangements. On the motion
of Mr. Sayer, this letter was referred to the Streets Com-
mittee for consideration.
QtLB. — One of our gas contemporaries throws out a
challenge to the electrical press to give an opinion upon
Colonel Makins's figures in his speech to the Gas Light
and Coke Company. What would be the use of such an
opinion even in conjunction with any statement of Mr.
Preece's? What conclusion does our gas contemporary
come to from these figures? Ours is favourable to the
electric light, and there is no difficulty in stating why it is
so ; but first let us hear what gas says.
Torquay. — At the Torquay Town Council meeting last
Friday, Mr. Harrison said that seeing they had spent X500
in acquiring powers for lighting the town by electricity, he
thought they should proceed with the matter, as the com-
pulsory powers would soon expire. The Board should get
the advice of an expert. Dr. Richardson said the license
giving compulsory powers would not expire until July,
1893, so that there was a year and a half to run. The
Electric Light Committee were giving the matter con-
sideration.
Marseilles. — A strike of a novel character has occurred
at Marseilles. The inhabitants have long been complaining
of the exorbitant charges of the gas company, and recently
a league of the largest consumers has been formed. A
notice has been sent in that after the 25th, if a reduction
jv nol made, the league will use np more gas, and pending
the introduction of the electric light many have laid in
stocks of lamps and petroleum, and on Monday many
of the establishments on the Cannebi^re were illuminated
by oil lamps.
fSlectric Tramway for Perth. — At a special
meeting of the Perth Police Commission last week,
consent was given to the proposed provisional order
authorising the construction of an electric tramway between
Perth and New Scone on condition that the clauses as agreed
to by the Commission be accepted by the promoters. The
Commission ask £50 towards the cost, stipulate that opera-
tions be not commenced till two-thirds of the capital is
subscribed, that the promoters pay £250 towards the cost
of widening High-street if necessary, and pave between the
rails on Perth Bridge.
London Railway Sohemes. — The London County
Council have decided to petition against the Baker-street
and Waterloo Bailway Bill, the Central London Bailway
Bill, the City and South London Railway Bill, the Great
Northern and City Railway Bill, the Hampstead, St.
Pancras, and Charing Cross Railway Bill, and the Waterloo
and City Railway Bill, with a view to securing the inser-
tion of clauses prohibiting the companies from bringing
forward their buildings beyond the general line of frontage
of buildings in streets ; and also to obtain sewer, bridges,
placard, or other necessary clauses.
Strikes. — Messrs. Ernest Scott and Mountain, Limited,
Close Works, Newcastle-on-Tyi^e, are fortunate in being in
full work during the present extensive strike on the Tyne,
as their men remain at work in all departments. They,
however, were the victims of a strike about a year ago of a
very similar character to that now going on, and which
arose from disputes between two classes of their foundry-
men, resulting in the entire loss of employment to all the
brassfounders in their works, the work being since then
satisfactorily accomplished by men brought from other
departments, against whose use in the brass works the
brassfounders had struck.
Colonred Glasses. — It is seldom our pleasure to
notice such an elaborately printed catalogue as that just
issued by Messrs. Paterson and Cooper of electric globes,
shades, and reflectors. Broad shades and narrow shades,
plain, crinkled, twisted, convoluted, veined, and variously
stieaked and coloured — some scores of different patterns are
beautifully represented in their actual colours ; and, if we
may believe the figures, there must be some thousands of
different varieties. This is evidently a catalogue that no
good electrical contractor can afford to be without, either
to choose from himself or to charm the heart of the lady
of the house he is wishing to light up. The shades can
then be selected in perfect harmony with their other sur-
roundings. For London customers, the shades themselves
can be seen at the firm's West-end branch in Princes-
mansions.
New Bahamas Cable. — Another link between
England and one of the colonies has been completed by
the successful termination on the 4th inst. of the laying of a
cable by W. T. Henley's Telegraph Works Company
between the Bahamas and Jupiter Inlet, on the coast of
Florida. The Act authorising the construction of the
cable was passed last session, and the contract for the
manufacture and laying of it was made with the company,
whose cable ship " Westmeath " left England at the end of
December last. Congratulatory telegrams passed between
the company and Sir Ambrose Shea, the governor of
the Bahamas, expressing hope of the usefulness of the
cable in binding together the colony and the mother country
in close bonds of commercial intercourse and affection^
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 12, 1892. 147
The return message said " Cable worked splendidly — con-
tract most faithfully performed."
Patenon and Cooper— A Disolaimer.— Mr. W. B.
Esson writes taking exception to the statement in our
biographical note, that the extension of Paterson and
Cooper's " work in various directions is due entirely to the
enere;y and ability of the manager." " The success of the
firm," he observes, "can be attributed to no particular
individual, and it must not be forgotten that the partners
themselves work most energetically in their respective
departments. To run an electrical business successfully all
concerned must work hard, and work together, and in this
respect the firm of Paterson and Cooper is no exception."
We scarcely think our note likely to be misunderstood, for
it is well known that the principals of the firm have
been most energetic in developing the several branches
of their now extensive business.
Britlflli Association.— The meeting of the British
Association at Edinburgh this year, under the presidency
of Sir Archibald Geikie, is likely to be exceptionally well
attended, for not only is the locality very attractive, but a
very strong list of presidents of sections has been made.
At its last meeting the council of the association was
informed that the following had accepted nominations as
presidents of sections : Section A, Prof. Schuster, F.R S. ;
Section B, Prof. H. McLeod, F.R.S. ; Section C, Prof.
Lapworth,F.RS.; Section D. Prof. W. Rutherford, r.R.S.;
Section E, Prof. J. Geikie, r.R.S. ; Section F, the Hon. Sir
C. W. Freemantle, K.C.B. ; Section G, Prof. W. C. Unwin,
F.RS. ; Section H, Prof. A. Macalister, F.RS. The Com-
mittee upon the Prehistoric Remains of the British Islands
is continuing its work, and it is expected to present its
report to the committee of Section H at Edinburgh.
■leotric Vehicles. — The Parliamentary Committee of
the London County Council report that the object of the
Ward Electrical Car Company's Bill is to authorise the
Ward Electrical Car Company, by agreement with local
authorities, to use electrical carriages, and on being licensed,
to ply for hire with them. This being the first application
for licensing for hire electrical power, with the concurrence
of the Highways Committee, they consider that the present
opportunity should be taken for making the Council the
licensing authority for the user of the cars, and that the
licensing should not be left to the Home OfiSce. As the Bill
is at present framed, nothing can be done without the consent
of the local authority. They recommended at the County
Council meeting on Tuesday that the Bill should be
amended so as to make the Council the licensing authority
for plying for hire, and that a petition be presented against
the Ward Electrical Car Company's Bill. This was
agreed to.
Sonthend Pier.— The tramway at the Southend Pier
seems to have had a satisfactory result in stimulating
passengers to pay for rides, for we find last week at the
Southend Local Board Mr. Wood proposing to extend the
facilities. The Pier Committee reported that they had
under consideration the question of the desirability of
providing additional plant and rolling-stock, and recom-
mended an engineer should be appointed to advise. The
chairman opposed this report, as he thought with a little
alteration the old tramcars might be utilised. He would
advise them to first get a perfect system with the present
arrangements, and then consider this further increase. Mr.
Allen said they must have a duplicate engine, in case of a
breakdown. Besides, they wanted more light, as they
wanted to light the pier from one end to the other ; which,
when done, would make the fortunes of the watermen, who
could row their fares round it. Mr. Pawley complained of
the present cars. The recommendation was carried.
IdverpooL — At a meeting of the Watch Committee ot
the Liverpool Corporation on Monday, the question of the
provisional order applied for by the Liverpool Electric
Supply Company, Limited, was again under consideration.
A letter was read from the solicitors of the company,
Messrs. Ayrton, Radcliffe, and Wright, expressing willing-
ness to negotiate on the terms suggested at the Council
meeting for the purchase of the undertaking of a
going concern any time after the year 1895, upon
giving 12 months' notice to the company of their
intention to do so, and on condition that the Corpora-
tion extend the ordinary time for the purchase under
the terms of the Electric Lighting Act to 40 years instead of
21 years and 42 years respectively, as at present. After
discussion it was resolved that the town clerk be authorised
to communicate with the company on the subject It is
stated that the committee were willing to proceed with the
negotiation to purchase, as a going concern, on the bifii of
the proposal submitted and at a fair valuation.
Reading. — The Reading Town Council last week had
before them the report of the General Purposes Committee.
In this report it was stated that the town clerk reminded
the committee that the license proposed to be granted to
the Laing, Wharton, and Down Construction Company,
Limited, to supply electricity for lighting purposes within
the borough had remained in abeyance for some time past,
the Board of Trade having refused to allow the insertion
in the license of a clause providing for the transfer thereof
to a prospective company, and that in these circumstances
a company had been in process of formation. The town
clerk further submitted recent letters on the subject from
Mr. H. F. Kite, the solicitor to the Laing, Wharton, and
Down Construction Syndicate, Limited. It was resolved
to recommend that the Council give consent to a license
being granted to the Reading Electric Supply Company,
Limited, subject to the form of the license being finally
settled to the satisfaction of the town clerk, and being
approved by the Council. The Council have decided to
light the municipal buildings.
EUimpstead and Charinflr Cross Railway. — ^The
promoters of the proposed Hampstead, St. Pancras, and
Charing Cross Railway scheme have deposited the parlia-
mentary estimates for the construction of this railway, pre-
pared by Sir Douglas Fox, C.E., and Mr. J. H. Greathead,
C.E. The total cost of constnicting this line, with all sub-
sidiary works, is estimated at XI, 255,81 5, of which
XI, 030,656 is for the main line, four miles four furlongs
in length, from Charing Cross to High-street, Hamp-
stead ; X185,809 for the short line, six furlongs four
chains in length, from under the Hampstead-road
to the King's Cross Station of the Oreat Northern
Railway ; X7,150 for the subway under the Strand
to connect with the Charing Cross Station of the South-
Eastem Railway; and X2,200 for a bridge for foot
passengers between St. Pancras and King's Cross Stations.
The railway, if sanctioned, is proposed to be constructed
in two separate tunnels, one for up and one for down
tra£Sc, and of the total cost, it is estimated that X729,860
will be expended in the actual tunnelling. The acquisition
of land and buildings will, it is estimated, cost X240,000 ;
the construction of stations, X107,100 ; and for general
contingencies a sum of XI 18, 170 is allowed.
Bradford. — ^The electric light station at Bradford has
made a profit of nearly XI, 000 during the last half-year.
At the meeting of the Bradford Town Council on Tuesday,
Alderman Priestman, chairman of the Gas and Electricity
Committee, presented a detailed statement for the half-year'
ending Dec. 31st. He was pleased to be able to say that
his anticipations a year since had been amply fulfilled.
148 tnt fiLfiOtHtCAL fiKGINEER, FEBRUARY 12, 1892.
For the supply of electricity the balance to net revenue
account was £2,001. 148. 6d. The net profit for the half-
year waa X971. 48. lOd. The first half-year's loss was
£1,079, the second £733, the third £315, and the fourth
£30, beinc; a total of £2,157. Thus, with the profit
made during the past half-year, there had been only a loss of
£1,186, after having paid interest on sinking fund from the
very first day of borrowine; money for the electric works.
As to the cost of coal in the production of electricity, he
said the average was 7s. 7d. per ton, or r258d. per Board
of Trade unit, which was regarded as equal to from 1^ h.p.
to 2 h.p. He believed that, as compared with what was done
at other electric lighting stations, the works of the Cor-
poration would be found to be most economical ; and he
believed that if they had to start again they would not be
able to improve upon the system which had been adopted.
Glasgow. — At the meeting of the Glasgow Town
Council on the 4th inst., the special committee on electric
lighting recommended that the business, heritable property,
plant, and machinery belonging to Messrs. Muir, Mavor,
Coulson, and Co. should be acquired by the Corporation at
the price of £15,000 — the Corporation to receive possession
on 1st March next. Mr. Mitchell moved the approval of
the minutes. Mr. Bell, in seconding the motion, said that
Messrs. Muir, Mavor, Coulson, and Co. some time ago
offered their works at £30,000. The committee did not
entertain the offer, but now, as it had been reduced to
£15,000, the committee were unanimous in recommending
that it should be accepted. Bailie James Martin
wished to know what was included in the £15,000,
and pointed out that when the time came for the
Corporation to supply electric lighting, they would require
to put the wires underground, and the overhead wires
would have to be taken down. Mr. Bell said the com-
mittee appointed two commissioners to go over the works,
and their valuation amounted to £13,000, without taking
into account anything for the goodwill of the business.
Seeing that they were only asking £15,000, the committee
were unanimous in. thinking that the business should be
acquired. Mr. Alexander Murray asked the amount of the
valuation of the overhead wires. Mr. Bell said he did not
know that the overhead wires were separately valued, but
the valuation would probably be £1,000 or £1,500. The
minute was then approved.
Mains in Berkeley-square, — The Highways Com-
mittee of the London County Council report that they
have considered a notice from the London Electric Supply
Corporation of intention to lay distributing mains, consist-
ing of concentric lead covered cables drawn into cast-iron
pipes, in Charles-street, Berkeley-square, and Chesterfield-
street. Similar works having been approved by the Council
on previous notices of this company, they recommend that
the sanction of the Council be given to the works referred
to in the notice upon condition that the company give
two days' notice to the Council's chief engineer before com-
mencing the works ; that the mains be laid under the
footways, and be kept 9in. below the under side of the paving
wherever it is practicable to do so ; that where the mains
cross the carriageways they be kept at the same depth below
the concrete or the road material, as the case may be ; that
the positions of the street boxes, and the mode of con-
struction of them, shall be submitted to and approved by
the Council's chief engineer ; that all pipes or openings
from or into the boxes shall be of such shape as to remove
all risk of injury to the covering of the cables ; that all
cables crossing the boxes shall be supported from below in
the boxes ; that all service lines or small cables shall be
protected, where leaving the boxes, by an extra lead
covering or by wooden stoppers, and shall also have a
copper wire of sufficient size carried from the service to the
main cable, in good connection with the lead or iron outer
casing ; and that the ends of all mains terminating else-
where than in a box shall be securely protected by iron
caps, in addition to any other covering.
Waterloo Bleotrio Railways. — The parliamentary
estimates for the construction of the proposed railway from
Waterloo to Baker-street have been prepared in accordance
with the Standing Orders of the House of Commons.
These estimates, which are signed by Messrs. (Jalbraith
and Church, the engineers to the London and South-
western Railway Company, and Mr. J. H. Greathead, the
engineer to the City and South London Bailway, set down
the total cost of constructing this line, including £32,000
for contingencies, at £990,000, or at the rate of just under
£330,000 per mile, the total length of the proposed
railway being three miles six chains. The cost of the
actual tunnelling is estimated at £438,435, including the
tunnel under the River Thames near Hungerford Bridge.
The erection of the stations will absorb £189,500, whilst
laying down the permanent way is estimated to cost £5,000
per mile. The railway for its entire length will be
constructed underground. The parliamentary estimates for
the construction of the proposed underground railway from
near Waterloo Station to Mansion House-street have also
been duly deposited by the promoters. These estimates
set out the length of the line as one mile four furlongs
6*80 chains, and the total cost of construction at £499,769,
or at the rate of about £333,178 per mile. Of this sum it
is estimated that £144,300 will be required for the
acquisition of land and buildings. The cost of tunnelling
is set down at £208,615; of the erection of stations at
£66,500 ; and for general contingencies a sum of £46,365
is allowed. These estimates are signed by the same
engineers as the Baker-street and Waterloo railway scheme.
Thermo-Eleotrio Stoves. — There seems to be some-
thing fatally " low," if one may so express it, about the
vibrations of ordinary heat which prevents them from being
used, except at several degrees of transformation, for the
generation of electric currents. Notwithstanding Lord Eay-
leigh's pronunciamerUo, many investigators are hard at work
at that most difficult and elusory problem of the present age,
the direct generation of electricity from heat. Several
recent attempts at advance in this field have come under
our notice, and the direction of these seems to be at present
more in the desire to utilise waste heat for the production
of electricity as a by-product than in any direct attempt to
force the heat vibrations to a higher scale on an efficient
and economical footing. One of the recent ideas is the
employment of the thermo-electric couples in a tubular
form, each tube forming itself a Bunsen burner. The
idea is clever, and the efficiency considerably higher
than forms in which the white light of gas burners is used.
A further development has been introduced by Dr. Giraud,
of Chantilly, near Paris, who wishes to utilise the heat
from an ordinary stove to furnish electric current as well.
The products of combustion rise through an inner tube and
descend the annular space between this and the walls of
the stove. The heated gases are brought into contact
with elements of nickelled and tinned iron and a zinc-
antimony alloy, contained in stamped iron boxes. The
capacity is given at 40 watts, the cost being about Is. 3d. a
unit, considering the total cost of coke. The idea may
quite well be worth while being taken up tentatively by
stovemakers, in conjunction with electrical engineers, for
the utilisation of the waste heat in grates and stoves, and
the study of these problems might lead to greater know
ledge of the best arrangement for the use of heat on larger
scales for the direct generation of electricity.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 12, 1892. 149
Town Lighting in Q,aeanaland.— We are able to
report the immediate eatabiishment of a central station at
Itockbampton, Queenaland, by the Rockbampton Gas ami
Coke Company, which has now an active electrical depart-
ment. In November, 1889, ihia company procured an
amended Act of Parliament from the Queensland Govern-
ment to supply electricity for all public and private pur-
poses within the municipality of Rockhampton and
the borough of North Rockampton, including the
bridge over the River Fitzroy that separates the
two townships. The company have been carefully
watching the growth of the electric supply com[>aniea
in England, Europe, and Australasia, and a month or two
ago issued a circular notifying customers of their in
tention to erect plant for supply at the rate of Is. per unit,
including meter rent, to see with what success the company
■would meet with if they put down a central station. This
circular met with such success that the company decided to
put down at once a plant for the supply of electricity. For
this purpose they have since purchased a very central site
in the busiest part of the town, and on this they will erect
a central station. The method of distribution will be on
three systema— viz., for 500 yards in each direction
of the central station the system will be low tension
(two wire) at 110 volts ; beyond this area the
system will be alternate-current transformers ; and for
the public street lighting (negotiations for which have
been opened up with the Town Council), the system
will be direct-current series arcs. The town is laid out on
the block system, as in Melbourne, and the lamp columns
for the arcs will be placed on refuges at the intersections of
the various streets. A plant for 1,000 16 c. p. lamps for the
low-tension, and 500 10-o.p. lamps for the alternate-current
system will be put down at once. So far, 850 16-c.p. lamps
have been taken up. The supply will begin about July
next. The whole of the work has been planned out, and
will be carried out under the supervision of Mr. A. E. Neal,
the company's electrical engineer. The company will also
carry out isolated installations in tjueensland. Gas in
Rockhampton is from 7s. 6d. to 128. Gd. per l.OOOtt.,
according to quantity consumed, or for lighting or heating,
so that the company will have a good chance of successful
competition with itself.
The UgbtinB of I>ame. — A meeting of the resi-
dents of Larne was held on Thursday last week for the
purpose of considering the question of the electric lighting
of the town. The Commissioners adopted electric lighting
on August 1 last, and their action has recently been called
in question, with a result which has vindicated their pro-
gressive iKilicy. Mr. John Fullerton, chairman of the
Larne Town CommisaionerB, presided. Mr, Picken moved :
" That the lighting of the public streets of Lame during
the past six months has been imperfectly and insuffi-
ciently performed, in consequence of which the rate-
payers and inhabitants have EuHered serious incon-
venience ; and that the agreement entered into between
the Larne Town Commissioners and J. E. H. Gordon
and Co,, Limited, London, has been effected without
due regard to the interests of the ratepayers of
Larne, who disapprove of the actiou of the Commissioners,
particularly in attempting to concede to Messrs, Gordon
and Co., Limited, the sole right of public and private
lighting of the town by electricity for 43 years from 1891.
That before entering into such an agreement the ratepayers
should have been consulted, and their opinion taken in
the matter." Mr. Thomas M'Cormick formally seconded
the resolution. Mr. James Boyd moved the adoption
of the following amendment, amid loud cheers : " 1.
Th»t the ratspayers of Larne, iu public meeting assembled,
hereby express their great satisfaction with the public -
lighting by electricity of the principal streets of the town.
3, That they express no opinion {at present) in reference
to the minor streets and suburbs, seeing that as soon after
the new dynamo is in operation as possible, the con-
tractors will replace the temporary lights now in use
by more powerful ones, which it is expecte'l will give
every satisfaction. 3. That the agreement entered
into between the Commissioners and the contractors,
Messrs. Gordon and Co., being the usual one pre-
scribed by the Board of Trade, is considered satisfactory,
and that the Commissioners deserve the best thanks of the
town for their enterprise and public spirit in introducing
the electric light, and hereby have our confidence and
support." Mr, John Bain seconded the amendment. Those
who were tiot ratepayers were then asked to go n])on the
platform, and tellers having been appointed the chairman
put the amendment, with the following result : For the
amendment, 74 ; against, 48. The proceedings then
terminated,
Bnmler. — At the monthly meeting of the Burnley
Town Council, on the 3rd inat., the Gas Committca
reported that the question of electric lighting had been
engaging their attention. When the provisional orders
were granted in 1890, the Burnley Corporation followed
the practice of other corporations, and adopted a wiiitiug
course, but action had now been forced ujion them. The
Co-operative Stores had intimated that if the Corporation
did not take the matter in hand they would take steps to
supply themselves, and the Tradesmen's Association had inti-
mated that they also were prepared to do something in a
similar direction. The term granted would expire at the
end of August, and any outside company would be at
liberty to come into the town and establish a central
station. It was felt also that if application were made to
the Board of Trade for an extension of time it might
possibly be refused, as the Corporation had been inactive so
long. A deputation from the committee accordingly went to
London and gathered a good deal of useful information. They
wore convinced that the question of electric lighting had now
passed the stage of experiment and that electricity would
supply a steady, good, and reliable illuminant. Burnley
was very favourably situated for laying down the installa-
tion. The land to be used for the station was close to the
canal and the gas works, and the area to be supplied was
exceedingly compact. In response to the circulars which
bad been sent out, promises representing 1,800 incandes-
cent lamps of 16 c.p, bad been received, and the committee
considered that that was sufficiently encouraging to justify
them in recommending the Council to sanction the
calling in of a consulting electrical engineer. If his
report was satisfactory, and he assured them that
they could supply electricity at about double the
price of gas, then the sanction of the Council would
be asked to the work being proceeded with. It was pro-
posed at first to provide suDicient power for 4,600 lamps,
and the initial outlay of providing plant, building the
house, laying the mains, etc., might be roughly placed at
£20,000. It was very probable that the experiment would
ultimately pay, hut for the first year or two they could not
expect to get much profit out of it. U it could be made
to pay in other towns, surely it could be done in Burnley,
which was so favourably situated. The electric light would
greatly conduce to the health and comfort of those who
had to work by the aid of gas light, and it would form an
attraction to the town itself. Alderman Collingo observed,
in reference to this report, tbat when the committee had
consulted with an electrical engineer they would be fully
prepared to give further information.
150 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 12. 189^.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
At Stand 107, in the North Nave, Hesan, Cro^on
and Co^ of 16, Upper Thames-street, E.G., have a neatly
arranged stand of electric fittings, bells, batteries, etc., and
a model church tower, with a peal of tubular belle, which
proves a gre»t attraction to visitors. Our sketch dves a
very good idea of the eener^ appearance of Masara,
Croggon's stand and church. The latter is a model, 30ft.
high, of St. Martin's, Guernsey, which the finn have fitted
with their system of copportape lightning; conductors, in
keyboard could be fitted up at the rectory, and the " last
bell " timed to suit the parsoa's convenience.
At their stand Megflre. Croggon show a large number of
electric bells of all sizes, from the smalleat house bell to one
for factory use having a diameter of 12in. The firm have
introduced a new contact pillar in their bells. This is cast
on to its own base, and in this way the risk of shrinkage
or shifting which sometimes occurs with the ordinary form
of contact, and consequent failure of action, is obviated.
Messrs, Croggon have supplied a number of their large
bells, single-stroke and otherwise, to mines, factories, and
large institutions such as asylums. The mining single-stroke
Hkclch ol Uean. Croggou and Co.
tbe Crritil Palaca EiblUtloD.
the way shown on the model. Care is taken in fixing these
conductors to connect all metal work with them. In the
belfry is a peal of tubular bells, which are rung by means
of current supplied from the Weymersch battery at an
adjoining stand. The hammers are worked on the principle
of single-stroke electric bells, from a keyboard. The elec-
trical energy required to ring bells like these is very smalt.
Messrs. Croggon state that those at the Palace can
be rung with half an ampere, at a pressure of six volte.
Country clergymen about to set up a peal of bells might
do worse than adopt the tubular vanety, with electriculy-
worked hammers. If the sexton proved obnoxious, the
bells, which are used to signal from the engine-room at the
pit's mouth to the bottom of the shaft, are worked by an ordi-
nary Morse key. A new design of bell, which obviates the
necessity for a drop indicator where several bells are
fitted up in one room, has two armatures, one of
which is attached to a pendulum visible below the
dome. When the bell is rung, the pendulum armature
is attracted and suddenly released, causing the pendulum to
vibrate for a minute or two, and so indicate the particular
bell which has been rung. A new pattern ship's indicator
is also shown. In a heavy seaway, ordinary drop indicators
are apt to break loose by reason of Uie ship's motion. The
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 12, 1892. 151
n«w one is bo held by a catch on the armature that it can
only fall vhen a current Nwea, do motion of the ship
harins any effect on it. For lifta, a useful indicator is
provided wluch shows the liftman which floor has rung
him up ; while each floor is provided with an indicator
which can be dropped by the man to show he has
heard the call and is coming. Messrs. Croggon have
brought out a new design of telephone which they
sell outright at a very cheap rate, and which, when we
Messrs. WoodhooB* and Bawson, as we have
previously stated, show, among other exhibits, a model of
an electric launch. Many visitors stop and admire this
elegant craft, which we understand was built by the
Thames Electric and Steam Launch Company. Our
readers will remember that Messrs. Woodhouse and
KawBon have been particularlv active in pushing the merits
of electrical apparatus as applied to pleasure boats, and in
conjunction with the Thames Company great energy is
tried it at their offices, certainly worked very well.
Of the firm's specialities in the way of electric light
fittings in wrought iron and copper, there are many elegant
and pretty examples at the Palace. Their new pendant
for electroliers or single lamps is very simple, and acte
well. A ceiling rose contains a roller round which is wound
the insulated leads. On pulling the cord a cam is
released in the rose, and the roller unwinds until
the action is stopiped, when the cam engages again and
holds the whole in position. The pendant works easily
being put into the business. A rapid glance at the
history of such boats is intimately connected with the
name of Mr. W. S. Sat^eant, who has recently established
the company of which he is manager at Eel Pie
Island. He designed and constructed the early
floating and charging stations on the Thames. He
also designed and built the well-known electric launch
"VicouiitesB Bury," 6SfC. 6in. by lOft Gin. beam, which
has been running for the past three yeare on the Thames
as a public pleasure-boat The cha^ng station at Eel Pie
JoaVa Stow-Speed Dyuuno.
and with certainty. A new wall pluf^ which we noticed on
their stand is designed to do away with (he objectionable
projection noticeable in ordinary wall plugs, and which
often leads to their being broken. In Croggon's plug this
is obviated by having a push contact-piece at the top, so
that the whole thing projects but little from the wall.
The firm have lately carried out several important con-
tracts for wiring and fitting in private houses, ai well as
hotels and lareer establishments, and report that they have
thdr hands full at the present time.
Island will consist of a 100-h.p. engine, transmitting power
to two shunt-wound dynamos for charging accumulators.
Suitable resistances are arraoged that any E.M.F. between
100 and 300 volts, with an aggregate current of 200
amperes, can be obtained, which can be divided into 12
circuits by means of a switchboard. An ammeter can be
put into any of the circuits by means of a switch, so that
the energy supplied to customers can be measured and
charged at a fixed rate. These dynamos will also transmit
the current to the motore in the workshops, which will
152 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, PEBKDARY 12, 1892.
be used to drive the works' machine. VarioUB suitable
buildiD^B are being erected for carrying on the business.
Adjoining the works is The Island Hotel, and arrange
menta have been made to light it throughout by electricity
to be supplied from the works.
#
Segment □[ Coils.
We understand that Mr. Andrew Pears, (of soap fame)
has given Mr. Sargeant another order, The new vessel is
to be at the next Henley Regatta. She is designed espe-
cially for speed, and in appearance will somewhat resemble
a torpedo-boat. This is the fourth order Mr. Sargeant has
received from that gentleman. The first was tbe " Pioneer,"
an electrical launch designed and built by Mr, Sargeant to
carry 20 paasengera. She is 40ft. long with 5ft, 8in, beam,
has a mean draught of ISin., and a displacement of 5J tons.
Tbe hull is constructed of three skins, tbe inner beint;
diagonal, with outside planking longitudinally in narrow
vidtha ; the keel, which runs from stem to traffrail,
is in one length of American rock elm. There is
no dead wood oft ; this has been entirely abandoned,
tiiuB giving a clear run and 'obtaining greater eflSoiency
from the propeller. A speed of 8J miles an hour will
be obtained. The second order was the "Pilot," an electric
Uunch designed as a sea-going pinnace, 26ft. 6in. by 5ft. 4in.,
and constructed to carry l.'i people — dningbt aft 18in., and
Raweon's stand at the Crystal Palace Exhibition, and which
we illustrate herewith. Tbe "Glowworm" is 53tt. long,
with 7ft. 2in, beam, has a draught aft of 2ft. 6in., and
displacement of Cf tons. The accumulators aie placed
unaer the seats, and the motor is aft, under the floor.
Joel's tUlii Switch.
She carries 40 passengers, with a mean speed through
the water of 9A mues an hour, and is lighted as
well as propelled by electricity. The potential is 126
volts, with a discharging current of about 3.^ amperes at
full speed, the propdler rotating at 650 revolutions per
'iKnglr
minute. The latter is connected direct with tbe armature
shaft. This vessel has gained the reputation of being the
fastest and handsomest electric launch on the Thames.
Amongst other launches in course of being laid down
are two, electrically propelled, which are for tbe entire use
a displacement of 2^ tons, speed eight miles an hour. The of The Star and Garter Hotel, for pleasure parties during
third order being the '\G!owworm," which Mr. Sargeant the summer months ; they will be used for trips to Hampton
sIbo designed and moulded, together with the working Court Palace and back. There will be electrical communi-
"«&^ J7t?^ bsiiig exhibited on Messrs. Woodhouse and | cation between the hotel and the charging station at Eel
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 12, 1892. 183
Pie Iskuid, ao that the launches can be alongside HesBum'a
boat-raft in the time viBitora are coming down from the hotel
to the river. These launches will be 76ft. long with 13ft,
beam, draught aft 3ft. 6in,, built in three thicknesaes of
bright mahogany, with teak fittings throughout, a saloon
deck the whole length of each veasel, fitted up with ladiea'
cabin, and for first and second-class passengers, refreshment
bar, w.c.'a, pantries, and everything to meet the Board of
Trade requirements ; under whose surrey they will be built
The saloon will be illuminated with incandescent lamp* of
100 volts ; port, starboard, and masthead lights will
also be electric, The steering-wheel will be placed
on the saloon deck amidships, ao that the steersman
has full view of the river. Alongside the wheel
will be the switch, controlling the electrical power, which
consists of one single lever, patented by Mr. Sargeant, and
is arranged for full speed ahead, half speed uiead, full
speed astern, half speed astern. The electrical power will
be stored in the same way as the " Viscountess Bury." The
accumulators are to be of the latest type in ebonite boxes,
and will be supplied by the Electrical Power Storage
Company, Limited. The pressure to be used will be
400 volts. The propeller will be connected up direct with
Dlianni of BigoOld't BaD-FqlL
the armature shaft, and will rotate at 600 revolutions per
minute. The lines of these vessels are calculated to give
a speed through the water of eight knots, the displacement
being 16i tons. They will be running during the summer
months m>m the new lock at Bichmond to Teddington,
between the hours of 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., calling at the
following stations ; Steamboat landing staee, Biohmond ;
SI eava. Meaeam and Sons, the K^eons and Glub House,
adjoining Buecleuch House (Sir JT Whittaker Ellis's resi-
dence). Eel Pie Island Hotel, Teddington Lock, and then
returning.
The stand of Mmmts. Jo«1 «nd Co., No. 167, in the
North Nave, contains a good assortment of the apparatus
mannfactnred by the company. The most conspicuous
object ii the dynamo, which, as it has often been described
before, will require only a short description now. The
ilinstration shows the newest type. The complete armature,
is abo allOwn in the figures, one representing the armature
and Gommtttator with segment of coils removed (showing
pulley on end of axle), and the other representing segment
of coils from armature and single armature coil. The arma-
ture is built up of sections orgronps of laminated iron plates
of s^^ental shape. These sections interlock, fit into each
other, andarefastenedby bolts to spokes, and thus form the
runof thewheel. Theinsulated wire coilsareseparately wound
ftnd are threaded on the core sections. The ends of the coils
are ooaneeted in a special and convenient manner to the com-
mutator, and can be quickly disconnected. The mechanical
datula are worked out to secure great simplicity, and to
unable the dynamo to be easily and quickly taken to pieeea
and put together again vrithout special skilled labour. This
is uaeful on board ship, in the country, and other placea
where an eaaily repaired machine is necessary. For use
on board ship a spare set of armature coils is provided, in
the event of damage by steam, water, or any unavoidable
cause, such as b frequently the case owing to tlie
cramped space usually available for the electric light
machinery ; the engineers can then easily repuT the
machine and put in the new coils if necessary. The
annexed illustration shows one of Joel's motors, being the
reantt of many yeara of experiment and testing. They are
made to run with either continuous or altemating enrrenta.
Bisaold'i Btll-PnU WllHaat Oonr.
Hitherto, the want of such an alternating-current motor
has been the great drawback to the extension of the alter-
nating-current supply system, and it is considered that tUi
motor will prove of immense imjportance in the fntnra td
electrical supply enterprises, llie special feature of the
motor is the use of very thin laminated iron in the flelda
and armature. The field magnet corea and poles ire made
in one piece of thin stampings of iron of the exaot dae uid
shape, and any number of these (according to the siu
required, are bolted t^ether and thus make «f the iron
frame without any aftto tooling, and having the greatest
possible magnetic efficiency. A number of these motors
have been made and supplied, and are said to ^ve an
efficiency of 90 to 92 per.cent.
Bw^old'i Ball-Fvll utd
Messrs. Joel and Co.'s patent main switches are made
with porcehiin backs and glass fronts with detachable key.
We abo illustrate these. The moving parts are completely
closed in, and a key is needed for operating the switch.
The contact bar is made of hard-rolled brass, and is slit
so as to form a springy comb at the ends ; the object
being to make as many contact points as possible. These
contacts pass under sparking shields fixed upon the
terminal blocks. The switch has a double break; the
sudden break being obtained by two fiat steel springs,
which press upon a stem of an elongated oval section, so
that the springs are compressed when the switch is on
and cause uie contact bar to leave the terminals suddenly.
154 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 12, 1892.
The malcers claim that one of the apeciat advantages of
this type of switch ie that it is completely protected from
dust and interference, while its action can be readily
observed through the glass case. Messrs, Joel and Co.
also exhibit their patent smpere-meters, suitable for use
with storage battery installation a, as shown, and their
central station engine-room ampere-meter, for use with
are lamp and continuouB-current aories circuits, and also
their spiral resistance for adjusting circuits in central
stations and many other purposes.
An improved bell-pull, which deserves to have a widely
extended sale, if not to entirely supersede the " push-
button," is shown on MeBsn. Slemena's stand. For over
40 years the familiar push-button used in conjunction with
electric bells has remained unaltered, except as regards the
artistic design of its exterior, notwithstanding that con-
invalid's chair, or of a writing-table necessitates the
advent of the electric bell-hanger and the moving of the
contact-piece from one position in the room to another. In
order to obviate these inconveniences, Messrs. Siemens
Bros, and Co. are now supplying, under license from Major
Bagnold, a simple and effective arrangement of bell-puU
which, no matter where fizedin a room, can be easily actuated
from any point in that room by attaching a thin cord, and
leading this cord away in the desired direction ; a very
slight pull on the cord is necessary to make contact and
ring the bell. In the diagram of the bell-pull and connections
shown, an elastic rod of steel, K B, is set vertically with its
lower end firmly fixed into a brass block, B ; on ite upper
end is screwed a brass knob, K, the shank of which passes
through a brass ring, C C, the conducting wires are
attached to B and C. A slight pressure ap[)lied to K in
Eugluu Bt Sydrnbun BlecMD Light Stitlon
siderable inconveniences are connected with the use of this
simple household fitment The ordinary push-button must
be pressed in a direction at right angles to the surface of
the wall or other support to which it is fixed. Agaii
the contact made is not always of the best; it is
essentially a " butt" contact, and possesses little or no self-
cleaning powers. When definitely established, say, in the
immediate neighbourhood of a oed, or of an ofBce or
dinner-table, it is difficult to actuate these push-pieces from
any other position. Pull-pieces have been devised, but
these need to be pulled, as a rule, in one particulai direction ;
flexible cord connections are also used, connected to " pear"
pushes, but these again are seriously liable to derangement,
and ma^ be said to contain the elements of their own
destruction. Generally speaking, there are many inetances
f^ daSj' occurrence in which the shifting of a bed, <A an
almost any direction other than in that of the axis of the
rod, B R, will deflect that rod, and cause the shank.of the
knob to touch the ring, 0 C, and make the necessary contact.
This contact needs no sOvering or platinising, as the knob
can at any time be given a circular motion, which will clean
the contact surfaces and ensure the establishment uf the
circuit. If it be desired to actuate this contact-piece from a
distance, it is only necessary to tie a fine cord round the
horizontal groove on knob, K, and this cord can be led off
in any required direction, such as to a bed, a chair, or a
dinner-table.
This bell-pull is made in various patterns and sizes. It
can also be conveniently combined with a aouod-repeater.
When a bell-pull or push is actuated, it is often of great im-
portance to be able to know that the electric bell is rung.
The other illustnttiona show a new form of sound-repeater,
The electrical engineer, February 12, 1892.
which, combinoil with the contact previously deBcribed,
makes » moat convenient and efficient fitting tor thia pur-
poBa. The repeater is shown both complete with the
nickelled steel bell dome, and without the dome. When the
latter is screwed on, one pole of the electromagnet is
presented to the sound-boss of the bell ; as soon as the con-
tact 16 closed and the circuit is intermittently interrupted
at the distant " chattering " bell the beil dome of the
repeater is set into vibration, and gives out a clear ringing;
SYDENHAM ELECTRIC LIGHT STATION
Continuing our illustrations of this station, we give this
week views taken from photographs of the cnginas and
dynamos. As we have previously said, the engines were
built by Messrs. Hornsby and Sons, of Grantham ; the
dynamos at the works of the Electric Construction Corpora-
tion, Wolverhampton. Those generatoi'S are each designed
to give an output of 80 amperes at a pressure of l.OttO
AltenjktOT ud EidMr it BjJeDhim Glsotilc Light BUUoa,
■oUDd sufficient to indicate that the distant bell has acted,
but not BO loud as to be iaconvenient to the occupants of
the room in which the contact is made. The above-described
system of ringing a steel bell magnetically can be applied
in other ways. Thus, supposing it is desired to actuate
sevenl bolls in series on ons circuit, one of these can be an
orderinary " chattering" bell and the others can be simply
"sound-repeaters" without contacte. No difficulty of
adjustment is experienced as in the caaa when ordinary
chattering-bells are joined in series.
volts, with a speed of 370 revolutions per minute. The
armatures are drum-wound. The mftgnets have a re-
sistance of 9-5 ohms when hot, and are excited with
a current of 142 amperes from a small machine driven by
rope gear from a pulley keyed on the main shaft, as shown
in the illustration. The generators themselves are also
driven by rope gear, the pulleys being carried between two
bearings. A coupling between pulley shaft and armature
allows of the latter being removed withoat taJdw^^ ti«. **a
156 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 1% 1892.
THE
tLECTRICAL ENGINEER.
Published every Friday.
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Notes 145
The Crystal Palace Exhibi-
tion .« ^ 150
Sydenham Electric Light
Station 155
Lame 156
CSantor Lecture— No. 3 157
Mr. Teela and Vibratory
Currents 167
I^actical Instmmente for
the Measurement of Elec-
tricity 159
Instructions for Working
Crossley's "Otto" Gas
Engines (New Type) 160
An Introdaction to Qnalita-
tive Chemical Analysis ... 160
A Description and Com-
parison of the Methods
of Electric Lighting at
Present in Use m London 162
Modem Applications of Elec-
tricity to Metallurgy 165
Glasgow Tramways 166
Portsmouth 166
I^ynn 167
Companies* Meetings 167
Companies' Reports 167
New Companies Registered 168
Business Notes 168
Provisional Patents, 1892 ... 168
Specifications Published ... 168
Companies' Stock and Share
List 168
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LARNE.
It is the simple straw that tells which way the
wind blows, and notwithstanding the immense
efforts to keep the real wire-pullers in the back-
ground, some simple matter ofttimes enables us to
trace home an attack upon the industry. We rather
admire plucky combatants, but the man or men who
are constantly trying a stab in the dark are neither
worthy of sympathy nor commiseration. The
attack of the gas interest upon electric lighting is
scarcely or never straight. Puppets are put up and
the wires pulled, the real organisers remaining in the
background. We have no fault to find with gas for
attacking electricity ; rather it is the duty of those
interested, but they might make an effort or
two by means of pitched battles instead of lying
in ambush. Distinctly, we do not believe in all
the rubbish talked about gas not suffering from the
introduction of electricity. It has got to suffer
whatever may be said to the contrary, and the sooner
the iAci is recognised the better for all parties con-
cerned. The coaching interest suffered from the
introduction of steam. It is the natural law.
Horses, indeed, were turned to other purposes, so
may gas, and attention might well be directed to
these other purposes. The Lame Times of Feb. 9
devotes almost an entire page to the report and
consideration of a meeting of ratepayers, called
to " give expression to the unsatisfactory lighting
of the town ; and also as to the forty-two years*
agreement entered into between the Commissioners
and Messrs. Gordon and Co." Immediately upon the
result of the poll at this meeting being known, a
voice was heard to say : •* The gas promoters have
lost the day " — hence the straw pointing to the real
opponents of the electric light at Lame. The brief
history of the whole matter may be given in a few
words. As is well known, scores of local authorities
have for years been off and on discussing the possi-
bilities of electric lighting, and among others the
Larne Commissioners. Messrs. Gordon and Co.
have been very energetic in bringing plans for
lighting before many authorities, and, again among
others, before the Larne Commissioners. This
activity succeeded in convincing the Commissioners
that not only was such lighting practicable, but in
this particular place compared favourably, as regards
cost, with gas. As a result, the Commissioners entered
into a three years' agreement with Messrs. Gordon
and Co. The work of the installation was pro-
ceeded with, and as time was an object, temporary
arrangements were made ; the final permanent
arrangements have yet to be finished. Here, then,
was the chance of opponents. They laid hold of
what they termed the unsatisfactory state of the
lighting. Yet little stress was laid upon this at the
meeting, while the fiercest battle raged round the
" forty-two years' agreement," which is non-existent.
Mr. Picken, a dissentient commissioner, was the
leader of the opposing faction. He undoubtedly is
a brave man. His audience was hostile, yet he put
forward his case, reminding us of him whom Horace
describes in the lines :
Sifractiu Ulabatur orbis,
Impavidam ferient ruina.
c
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 12, 1892. 157
In the end, the opponents of the electric light were
beaten by seventy-four votes to forty-eight, and we
trust the contractors will now go on their way undis-
turbed, complete the permanent apparatus, and by its
success induce the ratepayers to go in for what one
described is very much wanted — more light.
We are glad to find that Mr. Fullerton, the
chairman of the Commission, condemned without
qualification the argument that so crudely was the
agreement drawn that it contained no clause to
prevent the contractors going away and leaving the
town in utter darkness. Electrical engineers will
probably agree that the difficulty is in getting a
foothold, and that after having invested eight or
ten thousand pounds to put down an installa-
tion, there is little likelihood of abandoning the
work. Before entering upon a contract, it may
be assumed that the engineers carefully considered
the probable income, and did not ent6r into
a binding agreement till they were certain of
their position. Opponents seem to consider that
our Cromptons, our Gordons, and the managers of
various firms and companies are not business men.
We can assure them that few keener business men
will be found in any industry than those who are
now the ruling spirits in electrical engineering. It
must be remembered, too, that it would not pay a
firm of any repute to put its hand to the plough and
afterwards turn back.
CANTOR LECTURE— No. 3.
Prof. Forbes at the commencement of his third
lecture spoke in terms of great praise of Mr. Tesla's
recent lecture, and took the opportunity of having a
fling at some technical journal which had incurred
his censure on the question of the practical man
verstis the scientific. It has been our misfortune to
occasionally have a tilt at the arrogance and conceit
of some so-called scientific men, but in this case we
do not plead guilty, yet it may be assumed the
guilty party will have little difficulty in combating
Prof. Forbes's views. Mr. Tesla starts as a prac-
tical man, with a definite, practical end in view,
and this distinguishes him, and others like
him, from the inane dandy who experiments with
the object of finding out something somehow.
One millionth of such investigations prove
useful to mankind — the rest are waste labour.
Mr. Tesla's aim is, if we read him aright, to give us
artificial sunlight — it may be a less powerful light,
but softer, and as diffused over those areas in which
the influence is at work. Passing from Mr. Tesla's
work and the practical man. Prof. Forbes agreed
upon the great value of oil as an insulator. The
late David Brooks was the apostle of this system.
For twelve or fifteen years before his death we held
constant communication with him on the subject.
Oil has always seemed to us the ideal insulator, and
we regret Brooks is no longer among us to see that
at length his views are becoming more common.
The lecturer passed in review the necessity of so
designing stations that big engines should not be
running to waste, but rather, while obtaining
economioal engines, multiplying them and bringing
them into use as the load comes on. He pointed out
the difference between distribution of power and dis-
tribution of light, and, although we do not agree with
all his conclusions, it must be admitted that a great
difference exists. The lecturer concluded with a
brief examination of the rotary-current system, and
reference was made to recent experiments carried
out with the apparatus now in London.
MR. TESLA AND VIBRATORY CURRENTS.
The lecture given by Mr. Tesla on Wednesday last week
before the Institution of Electrical Engineers, and repeated
on the Thursday before the Royal Institution, will live long
in the imagination of every person in the brilliant scientific
audiences that heard him, opening as it did, to many of them
for the first time, apparently limitless possibilities in the
applications and control of electricity. Seldom has there
been such a gathering of all the foremost electrical
authorities of the day, on the tiptoe of expectation to
witness the experiments, details of some of which had
already been given to us from the other side of the Atlantic,
but of which no written account could convey the true signi-
ficance and beauty. Long before the hour of meeting the
hall was crowded, and Mr. Tesla was watched throughout
with the keenest interest as he adjusted his apparatus
quivering with lightning-like discharges, and now lighted a
vacuum tube by grasping it in his hand, now brought
to incandescence the filament of an ordinary lamp attached
by a single wire, there rendering the air in the interior of a
large ring luminous with flame, or sending streams of light
from wires stretched over the audience, and, most fasci-
nating of all, after electrifying the whole space of air
between his table and an iron plate above him, waving a
luminous tube in his hand totally unconnected to any wire
whatever. It was, indeed, curious to see the most promi-
nent and noted electricians of the day as interested in Mr.
Tesla and his experiments as any child with the first
friction machine, asking whether it was safe to do this or
that, to touch the wires, and whether they might be allowed
to try. For full two hours Mr. Tesla kept his audience
spellbound, with easy confidence and the most modest
manner possible displaying his experiments, and suggesting,
one after another, outlooks for the practical application of
his researches ; and it was difficult to realise that this
memorable lecture was the second only that he had
ever delivered. Even at the end Mr. Tesla tantalisingly
informed his listeners that he had shown them but one-
third of what he was prepared to do, and the whole
audience, after Prof. Ayrton had proposed the vote of con-
gratulation and declared the meeting over, yet remained in
their seats unwilline to disperse, insisting upon more, and
Mr. Tesla had to deliver a supplementary lecture.
It is not for us here to describe the lecture in its details,
as a full and illustrated report, revised by Mr. Tesla, is
being prepared for the Journal of the Institution of
Electrical Engineers, which will appear in due time, and
containing much even that could only be glanced at in the
lecture itself, and this will be the proper material for
electrical engineers to fully discuss. But it may be allowed
us to dwell a little upon the scientific modus operandi, and
give certain particulars which our readers, no doubt, are
looking for with interest.
In the first place, it may be stated, as Mr. Tesla men-
tioned, but which hardly seems to be realised, that prac-
tically the whole of the experiments shown were new, and
had never been shown before, and were not merely a repe-
tition of those given in his lecture in America. That of
lighting tubes in an electrostatic field and of bringing
filaments to incandescence on a single wire were shown
before, and being of the most importance, naturally were
not left out But all the other experiments, together with
most of the apparatus itself, was novel, and was supple-
mentary to that of his American lecture.
In the next place, it is important to understand — as also
stated by Mr. Tesla at the timA^biat Viasd!L^^\f»?aKsiiKik^
158 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 12, 1892
realised — that nearly the whole of his experiments and
effects were produced by means of an ordinary alternating
current from an ordinary commercial alternating-current
dynamo — such, in fact, as can, in many places, be obtained
from a central supply company's mains. These effects can
be, and were, brought about also by means of the currents
from his special alternator, but the chief benefit of the use
of this alternator is in being able to obtain perfectly
harmonious currents of a known number of alternations per
second, and in research work this knowledge is evidently
of immense value.
Without going deeply into the detail or the theory of
the working of the apparatus used, it is seen, therefore,
that the effects are produced by using an alternating
current, either generated direct at high potential and with
high frequency of reversal per second, or ordinary currents
converted into such currents. Mr. Tesla termed these
currents " alternating currents of high potential and high
frequency," but in the same way that the term rotary
current ^first proposed, we believe, in these columns) has
now gained acceptance to indicate alternating currents
varying in phase for producing a rotating magnetic field, so
we may, perhaps, venture to use the term "vibratory
currents'' for those of high potential and high frequency.
To generate vibratory currents from an ordinary alternating-
current circuit, Mr. resla uses first an ordinary transformer
in oil to transform upwards ; the secondary current from
this he passes into a second transformer having in its
circuit a ma^etic spark internipter, and from the
secondary circuit of this second transformer (which it may
be noted is of comparatively thick short wire) he obtains
discharges in all respects similar to those of the great induc-
tion coils, but of very high frequency. Connecting this
circuit to a properly-adjusted condenser, in his case a set of
Leydea jars, a surging effect is produced on the currents,
which raises the frequency of vibrations from 25,000 or so
per second to some millions per second, and the potential
to some hundreds of thousands, or even, perhaps, millions
of volts. The frequency in the case of the use of the Tesla
dynamo can of course be accurately determined. The
potential, it seems, cannot be accurately arrived at by cal-
culation, or, rather, the calculation does not give an accu-
rate result correspondent with the actualities achieved in
these effects — a fact, as we shall see, that may have very
important theoretical results upon the wave theory of
electricity.
Having at command a vibratory current of this nature,
the results shown by Mr. Tesla were the first outcome of
continued and careful experiments. Not only does the
molecular bombardment of the molecules of highly-
exhausted gases in vacuum tubes show phosphorescence,
but gases at low states of exhaustion do the same,
and even ordinary air at ordinary temperature, as
Mr. Tesla showed at his lecture, where the space between
two concentric rings glowed with discharge like a vacuum
tube itself, while the vacuum tube glow^ when at some
considerable distance from the plates to which the two
poles were connected. In this manner, by vibrating the
air molecules at speed correspondent to that of the vibration
of light, phosphorescent effects could be shown with ease.
Phosphorescence, Mr. Tesla explained, he regarded as
incandescence in another form. Ordinary incandescence
accrues after the filament has passed interiorly from the
state of cold to that of intense heat ; while if we regard a
bombardment of molecules with sufficient intensity upon
the surface of a material, we may conceive an infinitesimal
film of that material rendered continuously incandescencent
without the trouble of heating the whole — ^in a word, we
obtain the light vibrations without passing through the
whole gamut of heat vibrations — which has long been
the electrical engineer's most ardent desire. To obtain
a concrete idea of the difference between the ordinary
alternating current and the vibratory current, we
might imagine the first as a large ordinary steam engine
reciprocating at 100 revolutions, while the second! becomes
a smaller and smaller material engine as its reciprocations
mount from hundreds to thousands, or hundreds of
thousands, in the same unit of time. In the latter we
have the greatest efficiency with the smallest of first
outlajr.
We need not go further into the detail of the experi-
ments shown by Mr. Tesla based upon these considerations,
as they will be given, as we have said, fully in his paper.
We merely mention here that Mr. Tesla hinted at illumina-
tion of houses without wires, transmission of light and
power to a distance without wires, the synchronising of
various wave-lengths for multiplex telegraphy without
wires, the use of motors with but one wire, or even
possibly without any, and the recovery of the solar enei^y
radiated around us direct — "gearing," as he said, "our
motors to Nature's wheels."
He demonstrated that our ideas upon dielectrics required
modification, and that it was a mere question of potential
to make every material or gas a conductor. It was shown
that the interposition of a plate of ebonite, in fact, facili-
tated, rather than otherwise, the discharge. He showed
that the vanes of the Crookes radiometer would rotate
under the influence of his vibratory current, a rotation,
curiously enough, the reverse way to that induced by light.
We believe a similar result was first pointed out in a paper
read before the Institution at Edinburgh by Mr. A. R.
Bennett.
Mr. Tesla incidentally showed that the glow discharge
in a tube under certain conditions would revolve and then
become extremely susceptible to the feeblest magnetism,
and he hinted that possibly by this means the rapidity of
transmission of telegrams through submarine cables might
be greatly increased.
A word remains about one or two personal and scientific
problems. In the first place, it will be interesting to know
Mr. Tesla's own ideas as to the future practicability of his
researches — ideas which, of course, will have to await their
fulfilment for some time for actual application in practice.
The question naturally arises, How can the vibratory current
be applied to lighting 7 Should we expect to have incandes-
cent or phosphorescent lamps of a pattern similar to those
we know in the Edison-Swan lamps or the Geissler tubes,
or should we expect rather to discover a practical means
for rendering the whole mass of the air in a room softly
and beautifully phosphorescent 7 Both, Mr. Tesla thinks,
if we understand him aright, may occur, but he looks cer-
tainly to the possibility of the last and most fascinating
project Further, many of those who witnessed his experi-
ments must have asked themselves a question as to the
danger of the vibratory currents, which Mr. Tesla
handled so unconcernedly. We took an opportunity of
enquiring of Mr. Tesla with reference to this point, how,
indeed, he came to dare to take the current through his
body 7 It was the result of a long debate in his mind,
it appears, that caused him to attempt the experiment.
Reason and calculation showed him that such currents
oue;ht not to be dangerous to life any more than the vibra-
tions of light are dangerous. The self-iuduction and
frequency of alternation should be too great for any current
to pass, and for a current to be dangerous a certain quantity
must pass. Conceive a thin diaphragm in a water-pipe,
with to and fro piston-strokes of considerable amplitude
the diaphragm will be ruptured at once. With reduced
strokes of the same total energy the diaphragm will be less
liable to rupture, until with a vibratory impulse of many
thousands per second no actual current flows, and the
diaphragm is in no danger of rupture. So with the
vibratory current — yet in spite of reason and analogy it
was with the feelings of a man about to plunge from
Brooklyn Bridge (as one might well believe) that Mr.
Tesla took his first shock from his apparatus. The result
justified his daring, and he suffered no more than a slight
shaking in the arms. A spark, of course, passes and this
punctures the skin and causes a slight burn, but that is
all. This can easily be avoided by holding a conductor
of suitable size in the hand and receiving the shock upon
that.
There lurks in one sentence of Mr. Tesla's lecture a
statement which will cause much discussion in high scientific
circles. We shall not further refer to it here than to say, that
if the voltage obtained is not exactly calculable from the
data laid down of the condenser and the frequencies — if, in a
word, the result is not approximately that calculated, but
considerably lower, then this would certainly seem to show
that Hertz's experiments and results are not final, and the
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 12. 1892
159
way is open to further experiments and research in this
direction.
From the way in which Mr. Tesla alluded feelingly to the
impulse in research given to himself from perusal of
Crookes's experiments in high vacuum, the effect upon
students and scientific men generally of the publication
of his own promising researches must be great. We can
only hope that others, now that the way has been shown,
will take up the work, and before many years have passed
produce for the world at large the thoroughly practical
outcome hinted at in the " wonder-full " lecture by Mr.
Tesla at the Boyal Institution, on Wednesday, the drd of
February, 1892.
PBACnCAL INSTRUMENTS FOR THE MEASURE-
MENT OF ELECTRICITY.
BY J. T. NIBLETT AND J. T. EWRN, B.SC.
in.
(Continued from page 67.)
Measurement of Electrical Resiatanoe.
Resistance, — The retarding influence exercised by any
substance to the free passage of an electric current is
technically known as Electrical Resistance. Speaking
generally, if the sectional area of any homogeneous metallic
conductor is uniform, then its resistance is proportional to
its length, provided its temperature does not vary ; and
further, if its length remains constant, then its resistance
varies inversely as its sectional area, the temperature
again remaining constant. As a rule, if a metallic con-
ductor is heated its resistance increases. This is true of
all the best-known conducting substances with the notable
exception of carbon, whose resistance decreases as its
temperature rises.
The reverse property to Resistance is called Conductivity,
the conductivity of any conductor being a measure of the
freedom which it affords to the passage of an electric
current. Thus the greater the resistance of a conductor
the less is its conductivity, and vice versA.
Absolute electrical non-conductivity — that is, infinite
resistance — is unattainable, and similarly, perfect electrical
conductivity, or absence of resistance, is unknown. If all
known sul»tances were to be arranged in order of their
conductivities, we would find the metals headed by silver
and copper at the top of this list ; carbon, graphite, and
some solutions of salts and dilute acids, about the middle ;
and such substances as guttapercha^ shellac, and dry air,
at the bottom.
In the following table, chiefly due to Cuiley, there is
given a list of the more important substances arranged
according to this plan. Cuiley has further divided his
substances into three classes : conductors, semi-conductors,
and non-conductors or insulators ; but this division is of
course entirely arbitrary.
Table 2. — List of Substances arranged in order of tlieir
Electrical Conductivities (Cuiley).
Oood Conductors,
SemirConductors,
Insulators,
Silver
Carbon
Wool
Copper
Graphite
SUk
Qold
Acids
Sealing Wax
Aluminium]
Saline Solutions
Sulphur
Zinc
Sea Water
Resin
Platinum
Melting Ice
Guttapercha
Iron
Pure Water
Indiarubber
Tin
Stone
Shellac
Lead
Dry Ice
Paraffin
German Silver
Dry Wood
Vulcanite
Antimony
Porcelain
Glass
Merciuy
Dry Paper
Dry Air
If a material is required which will carry an electric
current with as little resistance as possible, it would be
choaen from as near the top of this list as is compatible
with cost of material, suitability for the special work, |
and various other conditions which will readily suggest
themselves ; and similarly, a body which is to act as an
insulator would be chosen from near the bottom.
As a result of the foregoing considerations, the laws
governing the electrical resistance of all metsdlic bodies
may be stated as follows :
1. The total resistance of a uniform metallic conductor
at any fixed temperature is directly proportional to its
length, if its sectional area remains constant.
2. The total resistance of a uniform metallic conductor
at any fixed temperature is inversely proportional to the
area of its cross-section, if its length remains constant.
3. The total resistance of a uniform metallic conductor
of any given length and cross-eection at any fixed tem-
perature is directly proportional to the specific resistance,
and inversely proportional to the conductivity (taken at
that temperature) of the material of which it is composed.
Specific resistances are usually expressed as the resistance
in ohms, or microhms, of a cubic centimetre of the material,
at 0"* C. or 32** F. Specific electrical conductivity is the
reciprocal of specific resistance.
If R represents the total resistance of the conductor in
ohms,
its specific resistance, or the resistance in
ohms, of a cubic centimetre of the material,
its length in centimetres,
its sectional area in square centimetres ;
L
and A
ti
t$
then R
rL
A'
Electrical resistances, however, are not usually obtained
in this way, but by comparison with other conductors of
known resistance (such as graduated coils of German silver,
platinoid, etc., suitably mounted in a resistance-box) by one
or other of the methods to be described later.
In the course of these articles constant reference will be
made to specific or comparative resistance, conductivity,
and insulating properties, of the various materials employed
in the manufacture of electrical instruments, or of the
substances for the determination of whose characteristics,
delicate measuring instruments are employed. The foUowing
table, compiled from Dr. Matthiessen's experiments, gives a
list of the more important conducting materials, in column 1 ;
their si>ecific electrical resistances in B.A. microhms (one
microhm equals one-millionth of an ohm), in column 2 ;
their approximate comparative resistances, taking the resist-
ance of annealed silver as unity, in column 3 ; and their
approximate percentage increase of resistance per degree
centigrade increase of temperature, in column 4.
Table 3.— Resistances of Metals and Aiajoys at 0® C.
(Matthiessen.)
Name of Metal.
Silver, annealed
„ hard-drawn
Copper, annealed
„ hard-drawn
Gold, annealed
,, hard-drawn
Aluminium, annealed
Zinc, pressed
Platinum, annealed
Iron ,
Nickel ,
Tin, pressed
Lead, pressed
Antimony, pressed
Bismuth
Mercury, liquid
1 platinum + 2 silver, aUoy
German silver, aUoy
2 gold + 1 silver, alloy
Specific
Be^itUiice.
B.A. Microhms.
1-521
1-652
1-616
1-652
2-081
2118
2-945
5-689
9158
9-825
12-60
1336
19-85
35*90
132-7
96-19
24-66
21-17
10-99
Comparative
Reiiatance.
1-00
1-09
1-06
1-09
1-38
1-39
1*94
3-75
6-08
6-80
8-30
8-80
13-60
23-65
87-20
62-50
1610
14-87
7-22
Percentafe
Increase of
Reaiatance
per deg. Cent
Per cent.
0-377
O-2S38
>t
0-365
91
If
»
• >
f>
tt
>>
0-387
0-389
0*354
0-072
0-031
0*044
0-065
(To be continued.)
160 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 12, 1892.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR WORKING CROSSLET'S
••OTTO" GAS ENGINES (NEW TYPE).
(Extradfrom " First Principles of Electric Lighting")
These engines are a great improvement on the slide-valve
type, but at the same time it is necessary, for their safe
management, that careful attention be paid to the instruc-
tions herein given.
The new ignition apparatus supplies the long-felt want of
a reliable hot-tube ignition, and when kept in fairly good
order and the instructions strictly adhered to, it is free
from danger to the attendant.
Before Starting, — See that all the bearings and working
parts are perfectly cleaned and well oiled, and that water
is supplied to the cylinder-jacket.
Next, move the ignition-valve in and out by hand to
make sure it is not sticking.
Starting, — 1. The gas flame in the chimney should be
lighted ten mimUes before the engine is required to work.
See that the flame does not light back and burn at the air-
holes in Bunsen burner.
2. A blue flame should just surround the tube in centre
of chimney, and no more, and should not burn above the
top of chimney.
3. The engine must not be started until the tube has
arrived at a bright red heat.
4. Move the handle on cams at side of engine as far as it
ivill go to the left to release compression, and to put the
ignition bowl on late safety cam. This is necessary for
safety, as well as to make starting easy. After starting,
reverse this handle when the engine has got up speed.
Don't leave it half-way. In the smaller engines no handle is
required, but the bowl of exhaust cam is to be moved
opposite a small secondary cam, and held in position there
by a pin until the engine has started.
It is dangerous to put one's foot on the flywheel arms in
starting the engine, as with " tube ignition " the engine,
if otit of order, may turn in the wrong direction at the
first explosion. Lay hold of wheel on outside, not inside
next crank of engine.
Lubricating, — Kegulate the supply of oil to the crank-
shaft and connecting-rod by means of the worsted trimmers.
Take the trimmers out when the engine has stopped, to
prevent waste of oil, also renew the tnmmers occasionally.
OU, — It is always advisable to use oil supplied by the
makers ; buying oil indiscriminately nearly always leads to
clogging, premature explosions, and consequent loss of
power, and the mistake is not found out till the mischief is
done. It should be borne in mind that the oil used in a
gas engine has to stand flame temperature, and that, there-
fore, oils of low flash-point are not suitable, however good
they may be for ordinary purposes.
The Ignition-valve, — The ignition-valve is a small brass
valve, placed in some cases below the chimney, but usually
alongside it. When taken out, it will be found to have a
projecting end Ain. diameter. This closes the hole leading
to the cylinder during compression of charge. If it becomes
too slack in this hole — permitting too great escape — ^it
should be replaced. Interchangeable duplicates are kept by
the makers. The proper stroke or lift of this valve is ^in.
When putting in a new one see that it has this stroke.
When wear of the cam and roller reduces this stroke to
^in., the worn part should be changed at once, and the
original stroke regained ; this is necessary for safety, as, if
neglected, the engine may reverse at starting, turning back
sharplv, and so endanger the attendant.
A slight escape is intended to take place through the
vent-hole, in the casing, near the flange of this valve — this
is necessary for safety. The hole is to be kept clean to
allow of this escape ; if the escape becomes too great through
wear it is not to be stopped by filling up the vent-hole,
which would be dangerous, but by renewing the valve if the
head is worn, or, if not, by grinding in the mitre valve part.
Cleaning Ignitionrvalve, — The ignition-valve should be
taken off weekly and cleansed with an oiled rag — not with
emery ; oil it at both ends when working.
When replacing the ignition-valve gland in ignition block
be careful to tighten up both nuts equally, so that the
valve spindle may slide up and down quite freely.
Ignition-tube, — A new ignition-tube should be put in
after every 30 to 60 hours' work, as after that time they
are liable to break if of wrought iron. The makers, how-
ever, supply tubes of special metal that may last 12 months.
A spare tube-holder is sent with every en^ne, which
should always be kept at hand with a new tube in it ready
for insertion in the chimney. The tubes must be firmly
screwed into the holder, so as not to leak at the joint ;
proper tools for removing old tubes and inserting new ones
are sent with each engine.
Chimney, — ^The perforations in the top of chimney must
be kept clear. If looking down the chimney while the
engine is working, shut off the cylinder gas supply, lest an
accidental escape should blow dust into the eyes.
Cleaning the Cylinder, — The piston should not be taken
out unless cleaning or a new nng is needed. When it is
taken out, scrape out all dirt that may be found at the
back of cylinder, and thoroughly clean and oil the cylinder
before replacing the piston.
The big end of the connecting-rod has only to be
uncoupled to enable the piston to be drawn out. The
joints of all the rings should be at the bottom of the piston.
When replacing the piston be careful that the steady-pins
in the grooves fit into the gaps in the rings, or the rings
may be broken when pushing in the piston.
When wear of the piston-rings occurs, change the inside ring
only at first. Do not use force in replacing the piston.
Valves. — The exhaust, admission, and gas valves should
be examined occasionally, and, if necessary, ground into
their seatings with emery powder and oil. As menticmed
in the instructions for the slide-valve type engines, too
much attention cannot be paid to the condition of the exhaust-
valve, and the remarks thereon apply equally to the slideless
type of engine.
Water-tanks and Cooling, — Never work the engine without
water in the jacket of the cylinder. The water-tanks must
be kept full by a ball-cock. If the cylinder of the engine
becomes much hotter than the water in the tank, the circu-
lation is obstructed, and should be attended to.
The water-pipe from top of cylinder to top of tank must
slope upwards at every point. The pipe from the bottom
of cylinder to the bottom of the tank must have no bends
where air can lodge.
Frost. — If the engine is exposed to frost whilst not
working, burn a gas light under the cylinder to keep the
water in the cylinder-jacket from freezing, or the water may be
drawn off. Neglect of this precaution may cause breakage of
the cylinder-jacket.
Dust and Dirt, — Protect the engine as far as possible
from dust and dirt, and take care that it does not draw its
air supply from a heated or impure source.
Gearing up Side Shaft. — Although in erecting these
engines special instructions are given to gear up the wheels
ta the marks on the teeth, " 0 O," it is advisable to call
attention to this point, as mistakes are often made in putting
these wheels together.
AN INTRODUCTION TO QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL
ANALYSIS.
BY BARKER NORTH, ASSOC.R.C.SC. (LOND.),
Joint Author of " Introductory Lessons '' and " Hand-book
of Quantitative Analysis."
[When Prof. H. E. Armstrong spoke at the Society of
Arts on Mr. Robertson's paper on " Secondary Batteries,''
he deplored the lack of chemical knowledge among those
who had the care of such batteries. The columns of a
technical paper cannot contain all the information required
on these subjects, but we herewith commence a short series
of articles by Mr. Barker North, intended to serve as a
general introduction to the study of qualitative analysis. —
Ed. E. E.]
In the following articles it will be assumed that the
student has already obtained a knowledge of elementary
chemistry, and as the latter is, as a rule, now taught in a
more practical manner than heretofore, it will be taken for
granted that the pupil has already obtained experience in
the experimental portion of chemistry, such as the prepara-
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 12, 1892. 161
tion of gases and demonstration of their properties. It is
too often the case, however, that when a student has
acquired skill in this branch of the subject, that he is told
to at once commence the reactions of the various metals
without any previous knowledge of the tests he is
applying, and he thus works for a considerable time in the
dark, as it were, whereas if special attention had been paid
to teaching him systematically how to apply the various
tests by well-chosen examples, much of his valuable time
would have been saved, besides which he would have
obtained a much better grasp of the subject.
It is therefore proposed to make the following a com-
prehensive survey of the operations which the student will
nave to perform in the various processes of analysis, and
by working through the examples given, and making notes
as he proceeds, he will acquire that manipulative skill in
the carrying out of reactions which is essential for suc-
cessful after-work.
QualiiaMve Analysis is that branch of chemical science
by means of which we ascertain the nature of bodies — that
is, the constituent or constituents of which they are com-
posed. This is done by applying reagents or chemicals
of known composition under certain conditions to the
substance under examination; and by observing the
changes which take place, such as the formation of an
insoluble substance, change of colour, etc., the absence or
presence of any particular element or compound may be
inferred.
There are two methods of analysing in qualitative
analytical chemistry — viz., by dry and wet reactions. The
latter is the more reliable, and for this reason the former is
too often neglected ; yet the dry method will often give us
the " cue " to the composition, and in some cases will even
tell us the whole of the constituents present in a substance.
The dry method will be treated of first, as it should
always precede the wet, in order that the latter method
may be adapted, if possible, to the information thus acquired.
Chemieal Manipulation— Dry Reactions.
In the Closed Tube.
This should always be the first of the dry reactions, and
consists in heating a little of the dry powdered substance in
a small bulb tube.
How to Make a Bulb Tube.
A piece of soft glass tubing, about 5in. or 6in. long and
^in. in diameter, should be chosen, and held in the Bunsen
name till the middle of the tube is quite soft, when the two
ends are dmwn apart, thus obtaining a shape such as shown
at a. Fig. 1. The tube is cut into two pieces at the drawn-
out portion, and each is made into a bulb tube by heating
the end uniformly so as to obtain the shape shown at b, and
then by blowing gently into the open end while the other
is still hot we obtain the bulb tube, c.
Reactions Observed: Change of Colour^ Sublmatwn^ etc.
Many changes may be observed by heating substances in
the bulb tube, such as change of colour without decomposi-
tion {^ in ZnO, FcgOg, PbO, etc.), sublimation (Am, As,
Hg, »b, etc.), and evolution of gas (HgO, carbonates,
nitrates, etc.).
After the reaction by heating the substance alone in the
closed tube has been observed, a little of the substance
should be mixed with dry carbonate of soda and aeain
heated, when, if mercury or arsenic is present, a black
shining mirror will be obtained in the cool part of the tube.
Experiment 1. — Heat a little of the red oxide of mercury
in a bulb tube, as shown in Fig. 2. Notice, first, the change
of colour; second, the black shining mirror of metallic
mercury, which by rubbing with a match may be run into
a globule of metal ; and third, the evolution of oxygen gas,
which may be proved by a glowing splinter bursting into
flame on being introduced into the mouth of the tube.
Experimeni 2. — Introduce a little oxide of arsenic into a
small bulb tube and apply a gentle heat. Notice the sub-
limate of white octahedral crystals formed in the cool part
of the tube.
In the Open Tube.
This is simply a straight piece of tubing about 5in. long,
and about ^in. in diameter. The powdered substance is
placed about fin. from one end of the tube, which is
inclined during heating so as to admit of the free passage of
air up the tube.
Reactions Observed: EvoltUian of Gas, etc.
The principal reaction to be noticed in the open tube is
the evolution of sulphur dioxide given off by the oxidation
of the different sulphides. We also obtain sublimates in
the open tube similar to those obtained in the closed, but
where a difference is observed it is due to oxidation during
sublimation.
r
"n
^
iL
o
J
Fio. 2.
Fio. 1.
Experiment 3. — Heat a little sulphide of antimony in the
open tube, and notice, first, the smell of the sulphur dioxide,
and, second, that the sublimate, which consists of anti-
monious and antimonic oxides, is a white one, near to the
substance.
Charcoal Test.
This is a very important test, and consists in heating a
small portion of the substance on charcoal in the blow-pipe
flame. The charcoal should not crackle on heating, and
must be free from cracks, otherwise the melted beads of
metal would disappear down the cavities.
The Blow-pipe and Bloto^pe Jet,
An ordinary common blow-pipe, a, is shown in Fig. 3, and
Sr
Fig. 3.
will serve all the purposes of the student, though other moie
elaborate looking pieces of apparatus, with platinum nozzles,
may be obtained. The hole in the nozzle, c, should be perfectly
round, and about the diameter of a pin, so as to get the
best effect on blowing. The blow-pipe jet, 5, with an
inclined flattened orifice, d, is inserted in the barrel of a
Bunsen burner, and the holes for the admission of air into
the latter are meanwhile closed to prevent the gas uking
fire at the bottom. The stream of air is directed down the
incline, d, and a constant blast is maintained b^ keeping
the cheeks inflated, and using them as a reservoir for the
gradual passage of the air from the lungs to the blow-pipe,
while respiration is continued through the nose.
BhvD-pipe Flame-, Oxidation and Reduction.
There are two parts to the blow-pipe flame, kno¥m as the
reducing and oxidising flames. The former is shown at (,
162 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 12, 1892.
Fig. 4, and is best obtained by just resting the tip of the
blow-pipe nozzle, c, on the incline, d, of the jet, and blowing
gently along the slope, while the oxidising flame, a, which
is really beyond the visible portion, is most successfully
produced by allowing the nozzle, c, to rest half-way down
the incline, d, as shown, using a good strong blast. The
luminous jet should be adjusted to a height of about IJin.
before commencing to blow.
Besults Observed : IncrtLsiatimis, Metallic Beads^ etc.
A. In Oxidising Flame. — A small hollow for receiving a
small portion of the powdered substance is made in a piece
of well- scraped charcoal free from cavities, and the oxidising
flame is directed on to the powder gently so as not to blow
the latter awav. If deflagration occurs, it indicates that
nitrates or chlorates are present, but if we obtain an
incrustation on the charcoal round the hole we may infer
arsenic, antimony, etc. If a white incrustation is formed,
or if the substance remains white, we may add a drop or
two of cobalt nitrate and heat again, a change in colour of
the incrustation, or substance, indicating zinc (green),
magnesium (pink), tin (blue-green), or alumina (blue).
The alkaline earths when heated alone in the oxidising
flame are highly luminous.
Fig. 4.
B. In the Reducing Flame, — The principal results to be
looked for in heating a substance in the reducing flame are
the beads of metal indicating lead, silver, bismuth, etc., and
the changes in magnetic properties of the fused mass
showing the presence of iron, nickel, or cobalt. In some
cases the reduction will not take place with charcoal alone,
and the powdered substance is therefore reheated after
mixing with carbonate of soda or fusion mixture.
The latter is prepared by mixing sodium carbonate and
[lotassic carbonate in the proportion of their molecular
weights, about 10 parts of the former to 13 of the latter.
This mixture fuses at a much lower temperature than
either separately, forming the compound KNaCOg.
When tin is being looked for, it will be found impossible
to obtain a large bead of tin as the latter is so difficult to
reduce, and in this case the substance should be heated
with a mixture of sodium carbonate and potassium cyanide,
afterwards crushing the fused mass in a mortar with water,
and |K)uring off the soluble and floating matter, when the
shining specks of metal may be seen with a lens at the
bottom of the mortar.
Expeiimenis 4 and 5. — Heat small portions of an arsenic
and antimony salt in the oxidising flame, and notice that
both give white incrustations, the latter being much nearer
to the substance than the former, which also gives a strong
garlic odour. Care should be taken not to use too much
arsenic, as the poisonous effects are well known, and even
small quantities are liable to produce headache.
Ea^eriment 6. — Mix a small portion of a bismuth salt
with sulphur and potassium iodide and heat gently in the
oxidising flame, when a beautiful red incrustation charac-
teristic of bismuth will make its appearance on the charcoal.
Experiment 7. — Heat a little of a zinc salt in the oxidising
flame on charcoal, and to the white incrustation and
substance add one or two drope of cobalt nitrate solution,
afterwards reheating very strongly when a fine green mass
will be obtained which indicates the presence of zinc.
Experiment 8. — Heat sulphide of lead or galena strongly
on charcoal in the reducing flame till all the small beads of
metal have run together into one large globule, and it will
be found that the bead so obtained is malleable and marks
paper.
Experiment 9. — With a salt of copper, such as nitrate of
copper, mix about an equal bulk of carbonate of soda, and
heat strongly on charcoal in the reducing flame for several
minutes. If the experiment has been carried out success-
fully, a red mass of metallic copper will be obtained.
Experiment 10. — Heat a salt of iron similarly with car-
bonate of soda on charcoal in the reducing flame, and prove
that the black residue thus remaining can be attracted by
a magnet.
Borax Bead Reactions.
This will be found of great use in recognising some
metals, as a few give very distinctive reactions when heated
in the borax bead in the oxidising and reducing flames
respectively.
Borax (Na»B4O7l0H2O), when heated loses its water of
■p r\
crystallisation and gives the anhydrous borate ^^2^b^0^
and this, if brought in contact with an oxide, such as oxide
of cobalt (CoO), combines with it, forming the blue double
borate NaaOBoOa -♦■ CoOBgOg.
Hov) to Make a Borax Bead,
A piece of clean platinum wire about 4in. long is taken,
and a loop is made on the end not larger than this, 0, by
winding it round a pencil-point. The loop is then heated
in the oxidising flame of the blowpipe, and while the wire
is still hot it is dipped in borax, what adheres being after-
wards fused up to a clear bead. This should be shaken off
whilst hot, as it will have absorbed any impurity which
remained on the wire, and another bead is made in the same
way by taking up borax and heating till the bead is of the
proper size and quite clear.
Results Observed : Colour of Beads.
The substance to be tested is made to adhere by touching
it with a hot borax bead, and by strongly heating in the
oxidising and reducing flames respectively we may obtain
significant colours, varying with the metals present, the
colour sometimes altering during the change of the bead
from hot to cold.
Experim^ent 11. — Make a borax bead as above described,
and, after taking up a little cobalt nitrate, heat the bead
strongly, first in the oxidising and then in the reducing
flame. Observe the colour in each case, both hot and cold,
and notice that the bead always remains of a dark blue
colour, which is an unfailing test for the metal cobalt.
Experiment 12. — A good test as to whether the student
can produce a good oxidising flame may be made by heatins
a little molybdic anhydride first in the reducing flame and
afterwahls in the oxidising flame. In the former case a
brown bead appears, which on heating strongly in the
oxidising flame, if the latter is a good one, becomes
colourless.
Experiment 13. — A similar test may be made with the
reducing flame by heating a little manganic oxide in it
after obtaining the amethyst red bead in the oxidising
flame. If a good steady reducing flame is obtained, the
bead will become quite colourless.
(To be continued,)
A DESCRIPTION AND COMPARISON OF THE
METHODS OF ELECTRIC LIGHTING AT PRESENT
IN USE IN LONDON.""
BY ALEXANDER B. W. KENNEDY, F.R.S., M.I.C.K., ETC\
The vigorous and successful work done during the last
two or three years by the various companies which are sup-
plying electricity under Acts of Parliament has now brought
the question of lighting our houses by electricity out from
the region of hoping and scheming into that of practical —
and already even financial — success. Nowhere has this
been the case more than in London, where the whole of the
metropolitan area has been parcelled out to various com-
panies, generally two companies, having different systems
* Reprinted from the Transact iotut of the Royal Scottish Society
of Arte, vol xiii, part 1. Read May 11, 1891.
THE BLEC^itlCAL ENGINEilR, FEBfeUARt 12, 1892. 163
of distribution, to each area, most of which are now in
active work. Not only to electricians, therefore, but still
more specially to those who are still in the outer darkness
which precedes the coming of electric light, the present
condition of this matter in London may be specially
interesting. This is, of course, the reason for my presence
here this evening. It happens that I have myself designed
some of the largest distributing systems and central stations
in London — stations which, I am happy to say, are already
in very successful operation — and therefore I may claim, at
least, the advantage of a practical knowledge of the subject
on which I have to speak to you. Perhaps I may say also,
although this is a purely personal matter, that it gives
me special pleasure to speak on this subject in a city of
which I was so long a citizen, and with which I have so
many pleasant associations as Edinburgh.
I will confess, at the outset, that I always feel a lecture
of this kind to be a peculiarly difficult task. Nothing is
easier than to talk technically to technical men, but I have
been warned by your secretary that the members of the
K.S.S.A. are by no means all technical men, and that I
must not at all assume even an elementary acquaintance
with electrical science on the part of all my hearers. At
the same time, I cannot be far wrong in assuming that
some of my audience have an intimate acquaintance with
the theoretical part of the matter at least, if not with the
special details of what may be called metropolitan elec-
tricity. Under these trying conditions I can only express
a hope that those of my audience who are electricians, or
engineers, or both, will bear with me while I am dealing
with matters of great familiarity to them, and that those
who look on the subject simply from the point of view of
good citizens who would like to use electric light if they
could get it, will pardon me if at times I am somewhat
more technical than interesting or instructive to them.
To begin at the beginning. There are now at work in
London a number of electrical companies, each in its own
district, under its own special Act of Parliament, and each
|)erforming its duties in its own way, subject to the
general control of the Board of Trade and the local authori-
ties. The function of each of these supply companies is that
simply of supplying electric current as the gas companies
supply gas. They build central stations in which electric
energy is generated, and lay mains along the streets, past
the fronts of the houses, by which this energy is distributed
to consumers. The mains are, of cout*se, of copper, either
in the form of insulated cable or of naked strip carried on
insulators in conduits of some kind. Any person who
wishes to use the electric light has his house wired for the
purpose by one of the many contractors who undertake such
work, and then has this internal wiring connected up to
the company's mains, just as the internal gas-pipes of a
house are connected with the street gas mains. The current
used in the house is measured and |>aid for by meter, just
as gas is, and the accuracy of the electricity meter — if not
yet all that it ought to be — is at least probably greater
than that of the ordinary domestic gas meter.
There are certain points about the generation of elec-
tricity in central stations which are common to all the
systems in use in London and elsewhere, and which it may
therefore be convenient to mention first. They lie at the
root of the whole matter, and some understanding of them
is at first essential for following the more detailed matters
of whieh I have to speak later on. After what I have just
said, I will not therefore further apologise for dealing with
points at the outset which must be ** household words '' to
some of my audience.
First let me remind you that the whole of the electric
energy generated is obtained primarily by the combustion
of coal. The electric energy is just as much a transformed
form of heat energy as the mechanical energy used in
worksho{>s. Therefore, electric lighting, although it will
avoid the blackening of walls and ceilings, is not to be
regarded as a smoke preventer, as I have sometimes found
to be popularly the case. In every central station for the
generation of electric energy, coal is burnt in the usual
way under boilers. In these boilers steam is generated, and
is in its turn employed to drive steam engines, also in the
usual way. The heat energy is thus, in the first instance,
transformed into mechanical energy, electricity comes in
in the next process only. The steam engine is used to
drive a dynamo-electric machine, usually called shortly a
'* dynamo," and in this way a part of its mechanical energy
is finally transformed into electrical energy. The dynamo
may be looked at as the pump which pumps the electric
current along the solid copper of the mains,*^ just as the
pumping engine at water works pumps the water through
the pipes
It is well that you should have some clear notion of what
this most important piece of apparatus — the dynamo — is,
and does. By far the best elementary illustration of the
working of a d vnamo machine which I have seen is one given
last year in a lecture by Mr. Preece, and as you may not
know it, I shall not hesitate to pass it on to you. U is a
well-known fact in electricity that if a wire of conducting
material, such as copper, be moved across the space between
the poles of a magnet, what we call a current of electricity
traverses that wire for the instant. A dynamo in its
simplest form is a machine consisting of a very powerful
electromagnet or magnets, between the poles of which a
large cylinder of wires or bars, called an armature, is caused
to revolve rapidly by a steam engine. Twice or oftener in
every revolution, therefore, as a consequence of this forced
motion of the conducting wires asross the magnetic field,
a current passes through each wire, and these currents,
collected and directed by special apparatus, are the currents
which traverse the mains and are utilised for lighting or for
power, etc. The current in the mains thus consists of an
accumulation or addition of an immense number of small
currents, just as a river is the addition of an immense
number of raindrops. As used for lighting, this river is
again subdivided, just as an actual river would be if, near
its mouth, the whole of its Rowing water were taken away
through endless channels for the purpose of irrigating
land.
Mr. Preece's illustration was this : The earth is a huge,
although feeble, magnet. Suppose a man stands anywhere
between the north and south magnetic poles of the eaith,
facing one of them, takes in each hand one end of a piece
of flexible copper wire, and proceeds to use the wire as a
skipping-rope. As he skips, a current will be generated in
the wire, and will pass through it and round through his body
from hand to hand. The current will be excessively feeble,
but could be measured by sufficiently delicate apparatus.
The man in this illustration takes the place of a steam
engine — he simply employs mechanical energy derived from
the internal combustion of certain organic materials to swing
his arms and drive the wire, which forms his armature.
The magnet of this dynamo is, of course, the earth. The
illustration is really both exact and striking. Substitute a
powerful steam engine for the skipping citizen, a strong
electromagnet for the earth, replace the single wire with a
cylinder or a set of bobbins containing a very large number
of wires, and increase the speed of skipping to 400, 600, or
perhaps 1,000 revolutions a minute, and you have the
ordinary dynamo of commerce, the sort of machine which
is used — in endless modifications of course — in all central
stations.
It is important that you should not think of the central
stations generating electricity in the sense of creating it.
The machinery only makes existing electricity available for
doing work — it creates nothing. Into the most difficult
question of the real nature of electricity, and its relation to
the ether which fills space — if, indeed, itself be not this
ether — it is obviously undesirable that I should enter to-
night, even if the subject were one which I was competent to
discuss. Without any pretence, therefore, to its being
more than an approximate analogy, it may help you in
following my further remarks if you think of things some*
thing in this way : Imagine a great pumping station for the
supply of water under pressure to houses, for any pur-
poses. Let there be beside it a very large reservoir of
water. Let there be a double set of mains laid along the
street, one main canying the water to the houses, the
other being, in fact, a drain to receive all the waste water
from the houses, but carrying it back to the reservoir, and
not to waste, if one may be allowed to suggest such a
thing. If we further suppose the reservoir to be at a
* I hope I may be pardoned for ignoring for an hour the more
modem view of the matter.
164 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 12, 1892.
somewhat lower level than the houses, it is obvious that
it might be standing full of water, containing any number
of million gallons stored up, and yet the householder would
be unable by any possibility to get a drop through the pipes
into his house. (This, by the way, represents the present
condition of Edinburgh in respect to electricity, except
that the pipes are not yet laid !)
Now, in the station oeside the reservoir let us suppose a
pumping engine to be placed, and connected with the mains.
Let it be arranged so as to draw water from the reservoir
and force it under pressure through the pipes. No water is
created, nothing exists which did not exist before, but now
each householder can set whatever water he wants, whether
to fill a bath or to wouc a lift, by simply turning on a tap.
The engine simply does the work of pumping into his
house. The reservoir never gets empty — ^indeed, the
quantity of water in it never changes, for I have supposed
that all the water used finds its way back through the
return main.
In like manner the whole space around us is a vast
inexhaustible reservoir of electricity. The dynamo is
merely a pump which forces it under pressure through
certain definite channels. These channels are made double
(" go " and " return), in order to ensure greater certainty
of working, but theoretically we might run a single main
only, and allow the current to return by earth, just as we
might allow the waste water to soak into the earth and so
find its way eventually back to its reservoir. There are
practical drawbacks about an earth return in both cases !
Just as we measure the flow of water in pounds per hour
and its pressure in feet of head, so we measure the current
(or rate of flow) and its pressure, in suitable units, which
we call amperes and volts respectively, the former being
analogous to the flow of water, the latter to its head or
pressure.
It must be borne in mind that whatever electrical pressure
it may be most convenient to use in the mains, the actual
pressure at the customers' lamps must be constant, and
nearly everywhere is fixed at about 100 volts. A variation
of as much as 4 per cent upwards from this will increase
the brilliancy of the lamps very much, but decrease their
life, while a variation of 4 per cent, downwards would very
seriously indeed diminish the light. As a matter of fact,
therefore, all the supply companies do their best to keep
the pressure at their customers' lamps as nearly as possible
constant at 100 volts.
The companies supplying electrical energy in London
may be roughly classified in two different ways — namely,
(1) as using high or low pressure in their mains, and (2) as
using alternating or continuous currents. With one excep-
tion the two divisions are conterminous.
The three high-tension companies atpresent working are
the Metropolitan, the London, and the Uouse-to-House. The
first-named covers most of the residential district north of
Oxford-street, and includes also Lincoln's-inn-fields and
other parts of the region between Oxford-street and Fleet-
street, and round Charing Cross. It has stations at Sar-
dinia-street, Eathbone-place, and near Manchester-square,
besides a low-tension station at Whitehall, and a new
station in process of erection at Paddington. The London
Electric Supply Corporation has one generatii^ station
only, at Deptford, about six miles from Uharing Cross, but
has also several distributing stations over its district, which
covers an irregular and very widely-extended area, including
some of the best parts of Central London. The House-ta
House Company has a small residential district at West
Brompton supplied from one station.
Among low-tension companies the largest is the West-
minster Electric Supply (Jlorporation, with which I am
myself connected, and which has, for its area of supply,
Westminster (including the Houses of Parliament),
fimlico, Belgravia (with Buckingham Palace), and
Mayfair, marching with the Metropolitan Company
along Oxford-street It has three central stations —
one in Westminster, one in Belgravia, and one in
Mayfair. Its district fortunately includes offices, shops,
hotels, clubs, and private residences as well. The
Kensington and Knightsbridge Company have a district
at South Kensington mainly residential, with two
stations and a battery station. The St James's and
Pall Mall (Company have the cream of the lighting in
London — that region in St James's which is familiarly
known as "Club Land" — which they light from one
station in the centre of it They are about to build another
station for the northern part of their district The Elec-
tricity Supply Company (Strand district) has a station near
Covent (harden. The Notting Hill Company has a district
mainly residential ; its station has been very recently opened.
In St Pancras the matter has been taken up by the Vestry
itself, and its first station will soon be ready.
All the high-tension companies mentioned use alternating
currents, and all the low-tension companies use continuous
or direct currents. The Chelsea Company, however, which
has a station near Sloane-square, distributes continuous
currents at high pressure on a system which I shall describe
later on.
It is, of course, impossible here to make any exhaustive
comparison of the merits of the difiiBrent systems adopted
in London. I will say at once, also, that I am not one of
those who think that any one system has all the merits to
itself. Indeed, I think it is quite open to doubt whether,
for instance, the system which is best adapted for St
James's is aiso best adapted for Brompton. it is certainly
not necessarily so, and I know personally that the difierent
systems employed have been adopted in each case after
careful consideration of their special circumstances by those
responsible for the scheme. Whether or not a particular
system is best in a particular place is not a matter which
can be decided ofi'-hand by mere expression of opinion, and
without regard to the special conditions involved. I shall
endeavour to give you, as fairly as I can, a sketch of the
pros and cons, of the principal points of difference between
the systems adopted.
First, as to the main division which I have mentioned
between the systems, that, namely, between distribution at
high and low pressure, or tension, as it is more often called.
The analogy of water may here again be made use of. If it be
required to do a given amount of work bv water power,
it can be done either by the use of a large quantity
of water at a small heaid, or of a small quantity with
a very high head or pressure. As we may otherwise
express it, a given amount of energy may be furnished
by the aid of water, either by sending a large
quantity of water through the mains at a low pressure, or
a small quantity at a high pressure. The work done, or
the effect in energy, depends on the product of quantity
and pressure — e.^., lOOlb. of water per minute at a head
of 10ft. is equivalent to lib. per minute under a head of
1,000ft., although it is to be noted that a much smaller
pipe would be necessary to convey the lib. than the 1001b.
Exactly the same is true of electricity. One hundred
amperes at a presure of 100 volts is the exact equivalent of
10 amperes at a pressure of 1,000 volts. The importance
of this point is easily seen. When a current of electricity
passes along the copper conductor or wire, which takes the
place in this case of the hollow water main, a certain resist-
ance is experienced analogous to the frictional resistance
which accompanies the motion of water through a pipe.
With a copper main of a given cross-sectional area this
resistance increases — within certain limits — in direct pro-
portion to the magnitude of the current — that is, double
the current gives double the resistance, etc More-
over, this resistance, like friction, is accompanied
by the generation of heat; the copper conveying the
current becomes hot, and a certain point is easily
reached at which the heat so generated is sufficient
to injure the insulating material round the metal j
Whether or not, however, the heat should be unduly great,
all the work done against the resistance is absolutelv
wasted, for useful purposes, exactly as is the similar work
done in pumping water. Practically it is found by most
low-tension companies that it is on these grounds inadvis-
able to allow copper mains to carry a current of more than
600 or 700 amperes per square inch of cross-section. As
the output of a large station at full load is measured in
thousands of amperes, this means that the trunk mains
must have, in all, an area of several square inches, which
is, of course, a very expensive matter.
On the other hand, tJie amount of current which a copper
rod will carry is not affected by the pressure at which the
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, EEBHUARY 12, 18&2. 166
current is circalating. Hence there is an obvious primd
facie advantage in the use of a high pressure. It allows
the quantity of current for any given amount of electrical
energy to oe reduced just in proportion as the pressure is
increased, and as the former only affects the size of the
mains, the use of high tension — other things being equal —
allows the weight of copper in the mains to be reduced
very materially. Moreover, by using a pressure so high
that the loss of head in forcing the current through the
mains is negligible, or at least is proportionately very
small, the generating station can be placed at a considerable
distance, several miles for example, from the district
supplied. In itself this is, of course, not desirable — indeed,
it is most undesirable — but naturally there may be places
where the erection of a lighting station in the centre of a
district which it has to supply is for certain sufficient
reasons impossible.
I have said that the pressure of electricity in the customers'
houses is a low pressure, and must be everywhere the same,
whatever may be the pressure in the mains. Practically it
is always about 100 volts. Hence clearly a distribution at
high pressure would be impossible if there did not exist
some ready means of changing the pressure from high to
low at the customer's house. This requirement is met by
the transformer or converter, which is at once the blessing
and the trouble of the high-tension systems. To explain to
Jou the nature of this apparatus, I am sorry to say that I
ave to leave my hydraulic analogy, which appears to
furnish no parallel case, and must take the thing just as it
stands.
It is necessary before doing this to look for a moment at
the other division between the London companies — namely,
the use of continuous and alternating currents — pointing out
at the outset that so far as house-lighting goes, there is no
difference between them, but that as yet motors have practi-
cally only been driven by continuous currents. If you
recollect my description of the way in which current is
produced by a dynamo, you will see that that current
really cannot be completely continuous. It consists of a
series of very rapidly-occurring successive flows of current.
For all practical purposes, however, this current may be
treated as continuous, for by a piece of apparatus called a
commutator, which forms part of the dynamo, all the
currents are made to flow in the same direction. A really
continuous current is only furnished by a battery, but so
far as all its leading characteristics and its measurement
go, the current from a continuous-current dynamo is
identical with that furnished by a battery.
Such a current, as we shall see directly, cannot be trans-
formed in pressure in the way I have alluded to. It is quite
possible, however, to arrange a dynamo — which then
requires no commutator — so that it delivers its current,
not continuously, but in what may be called wavelets,
swinging first forward, then back. An electric current of
this kind is called an alternating current, and is used by
all the high-tension companies which I have mentioned
in London. Each wave of current is complete in itself,
and occupies generally from one-eightieth to one-hundredth
of a second, forming a complete cycle of what — in default
of a better expression — we may call a go and return
current, and between each pair of waves the current is
zero — that is, the flow ceases absolutely, although for an
infinitesimally short time.
(To he continued,)
MODERN APPLICATIONS OF ELECTRICITY TO
METALLURGY.''
BY G. C. V. HOUnSS, S£C.I.N.A.
(Ckhiduded from page 137),
Aj^plietUions of the Elmore Praeess to Manufa4^ures, — It
mignt probably at first be thought that in consequence of the
copper Deing deposited on a mandrel in the form of a tube this
process was very limited in its application, and that few kinds
of actidea oould be manufactured by it. This is, however,
* Paper read before the Junior Engineering Society, Jan. 15.
not the case. Such goods as steam-pipes, calico printers' and
other rollers, the coatings of hydraulic ram-plungers and,
in fact, anything of a plain circular section can, of course,
easily be made, but so also can sheet copper, tape for electric
lighting, pots and pans of circular section and with flat or
curved bottoms, cartridge cases for heavy and quick-firing guns ;
also high-conductivity wire can be produced by simply cutting
and drawing without melting the deposited metal.
If a tube be cut open in the direction of its length and
flattened out, a single sheet is produced, the size of the sheet
being dependent solely on the diameter and length of the
mandrel. It would, however, be a tedious operation to remove
a large mandrel from the tanks and remove the tube from it
every time it was required to make a sheet. The Messrs.
Elmore have got over this difficulty in the most ingenious way
by taking advantage of the severance of continuity in the metiJ
that results from oxidising the surface, either by interrupting
or reversing the current. In this way they can form a tube,
the ^alls of which, to all appearance, are perfectly solid, but
which in reality are laminated throughout. The thickness of
the separate layers or laminations can be regulated to a nicety,
and wnen the built-up tube is withdrawn from its mandrel and
cut open it separates up into its constituent layers, so that
instead of one sheet several can be obtained.
Tape for electric lighting can be produced by cutting up a
simple or a laminated tube spirally m a lathe or in a special
cutting machine and unwinding the spiral. Tou can thus
produce, without rolling or heating, a strip of rectangular
section aiid of perfectly pure copper. This is a product which
will be highly valued by electnc lighting engineers, for even a
minute percentage of copper oxide in the metal considerably
reduces the conductivity of the material.
Wire for electric purposes is made by depositing a tube as
usual and cutting it into a spiral as before, but of square
section. The strip thus formed is drawn through dies in the
usual manner. This process for making wire compares most
favourably with the older method, to which reference was made
in the earlier portion of the paper. The copper being abso*
lutely pure is of very high conductivity, and always perfectly
uniform. It possesses also the advantage that it can be drawn
through a great number of holes without being re-annealed.
Results of Experiments %/nth Copper prodticed by the Elmore
Process, — Messrs. Clark Forde and Taylor have carried out
experiments on the qualities of wire made under this process,
which have given most interesting and important results. The
conductivity of the hardest Elmore wire having a breaking
strain of 29 tons per square inch was found to be about 2^ per
cent, higher than that of soft annealed wire of the best quauty
hitherto procured commercially, and the annealed Elmore wire
has a conducting power 4J^ per cent, above that of the best
commercial copper. The hardness of the wire tested was so
great that the elongation under the strain at the rate of 29 tons
per square inch was only J per cent.
The tensile strength, elastic limit, and extensions under strain
of Elmore tubes may best be illustrated by reference to the
accompanying table of results obtained by Prof. W. C. Unwiu,
F.R.S., and Prof. A. B. W. Kennedy, F.R.S. They show
many interesting features. The tensile strength is proved to
be equal to that of mild steel instead of that hitherto accepted
for commercial sheet copper, which latter is usually about 14
tons per square inch. In one instance the tensile strength of
the Elmore sheet reached the extraordinary limit of 42 'SS tons
per square inch. The widely diverging results are not due to
accident, but can be reproduced at will to suit varying require-
ments by altering the conditions of deposition. Another most
important point brought out by the experiments is the very high
ratio of elastic limit to breaking load. This ratio is peif ecuy
under the control of the manufacturer. In some instances it
came out as high as 0*92, which means that the material might
be loaded up to 92 per cent, of its ultimate breaking strain and
yet return to its original dimensions. This quality in engineer-
ing structures is of course of great importance. Equally
satisfactory are the figures showing the percentages of exten-
sion and reduction of area of fiacture. These prove the
extreme ductility and uniformity of the material even when
worked cold.
The test marked ** annealed," third from the bottom of the
list, is worthy of particular attention. The process of heatins
and annealing had reduced the tensile strength of the materiid
to 14*78 tons per square inch, which is about the strength of
good commercial sneet unannealed, but the extension on the
length of Sin. was no less than 62*3 per cent. This reduction
of strength, due to heating, is inherent in aU coppers, no matter
what the process of manufacture may be, but it is worthy of
remark that it is quite unnecessary to heat the copper deposited
under the burnisher for the purpose of working it, for even
such difficult operations as flanging a pipe can be carried out
with ease successfully in the cold state. The numerous
samples exhibited, all of which have been worked cold, prove
this ; but perhaps a still more convincing proof is furnished by
the record of an extraordinary experiment carried out by the
well-known French firm of ooppersmiths, Messrs. Gueldry,
i«6 TtitE ELECTRICAL ENGlilEER, FEBRUARt la, 1892.
Table II.— Tkbleahowing tbe Results of Tonaile Tasta, carried
out some by Prof. W. C. llDwin, F.R.S., and Bome bj Prof.
A. B. W. Kennedy, F.R.S., mads on Pieces of Copper cut from
Tabee deposited by bhe Elmore Process.
1
•si
r-
y
ill
PI
is
hi
pi
k
If
0148
23-61
4
>!-?
mo
I -aw
0-148
0186
21 -fid
2.V71
0-840
4
fll-7
67-5
1-255
0'147
0-184
2130
24-88
O-860
{'S
21-0
HI -6
1-880
0-142
0-267
-
34-80
-
14-1
~
1-880
l)14-J
0-287
-
•24-50
-
{'I
ll-N
13-9
—
rsso
0-14*2
0-267
-
24-07
-
!'S
l?fl
—
1-245
0-1.15
0-168
22-05
26-84
4
17-5
70-.-.
i-sea
0-131
0185
24-83
■26-8,1
0 925
14 3
6.^-5
1-272
0-131
0-167
23-03
25-92
OBSa
i
IV-i<
66-0
1-22S
0-040
O-060074
an-xi
10
1>-I
1-221
0-0.10
0-06105
42-28
ID
Vii
1-487
0-C50
0-074
18-03
27-52
065
10
ti'f.
1-504
0 050
0-075
16-62
•26-77
0-62
7-7
]'508
0-084
0-127
14-80
29-46
0-50
3-8
1'4»0
0-084
0-12.')
15-00
0-50
3-5
1-981
0-081
0-160
139
28-93
0-48
3-4
1-981
0 079
28-82
10
3-3
1-380
0-D60
0 0S3
•2.1 -M
3
20-0
1-380
0-oeo
0083
2«-64
3
IBO
1-385
0-fWO
0-083
14-78
3
S2-3
2-007
0-050
0 100
27-82
3
4-11
■2-000
O05-2
0-104
-
27-18
-
3
6-7
-
Grimault,- et Tillier, of 66, nia Amelut, Paris. They repurted,
Otta Deoeinber, 1891 :
" We have tried and tested in every way the lost copper tubat
of 52-48 nullimetres, which you sent to us uii the Srdinst. With-
out annealing we have been able, by drawing out the tube on a
mandrel, to reduce the thickness from two millimotreB to ^gths
of a millitnotre, and the outside diameter from 62 millimetres
to six millimetres, and we could have drawn it still further
down. Without annealing we have been able, by drawing out
the tube without a mandrel, to reduce the diameter from &2
millimetres down to 14 millimetros, bringing the thickness from
two millimetres up to three millimetres. All these manipula-
tions have not in the least injured the metal, which remained
equally malleable and rigid — a result simply marvellous. Our
conclusion is that you can now produce perfect tubes, and of a
quality hitherto unknown."
The writer has dwelt at great length on the physical qualities
of copper deposited under the system of continuous burDishing,
because it is by these qualities that the material must stand or
fall.
Cost 'if Mifiitfacture l^j tht Elmore Procau.— The remarks
which have been previously made on the cost c)f electro-refining
oopper apply equally to the Elmore process. The mere cost of
deposition must be the same in bothcaeea, such elements.
diBbrence of potential between the t«rmii
the quantity of the current remain the same.
Owing to the arrungements of anode and cathode not being
so favourable as in the refining process the resistance of the
tanks must be somewhat more, and this cause, coupled with the
j^reatfir current density used in the burnishing process, makes
it necessary to work with a higher difference of potential per
tank. The actual difference varies according to the size and
number of mandrels in each tank and the arrangement of the
anodes. In practice, it may on the nversge be taken as two-
thirds of a volt, at which figure, as already seen, a ton of copper
can be deposited for each ton of coal burnt in the furnaces of
the boilers which supply the dynamo engines. The extra cost
of plant requiiM for the burnishing process must be taken into
aoeount, though this is partly neutralised by the increased
current density which can be used. The cost of cyaniding, of
adjusting the mandrels in the bath and removing the tubes
from the latter, must all be considered ; but the author is
informed that, when every it«m of increased expenditure has
been taken into account, the whole cost of manufacture on an
output of from 20 to SO tons per week comes to about ^. per
pound weight of manufactured article. This result is certainly
satisfactory.
The subject for this paper has been choaen by the author
partly because it is one of comparative novelty, and partly
Mcause he believes that electro-metallurgy is destined to De an
important factor in our national industry, and that it will
consequently afford a profitable field of employment for the
engineers of the rising generation. We are now only on the
fringe of the subject. Copper has yielded first to the efforts of
the electrician because it happens to stand at the very bottom of
tho list of commercial metals given in Table I. {I'ule M.S. Jan.
2-2), but the others will follow sooner or later, though their treat-
ment will not be quite so easy. Already results have been
heard of and even specimens seen which are of the brightest
augury for the future, and for this reason the author hss not
hesitated to present an elementary and necessarily imperfect
account of recent improvements in the electro- motallargy of
copper.
GUSGOW TRAMWAYS.
Firnt.—AstUAi. TaAtmos.— For the year ending 1890 traction
on the Glasgow tramways, including maintenance and renewal of
the plant therewith connected, in bo far as that can be ascertained
from the published accounts, cost 6*031 pence per oar mile.
Stamd.^Eux7T&ic Traction by AuctiMlTLATORB.— The cost of
working, baaed on offer? received, and adding thereto the farther
charges neoessar^ to cover outlays corresponding to these embraced
in the cost of ammal traction, and also interest at 5 per cent, on
the excess of capital required tor working by accumulators as
compared with animal haulage, imounts to 4-051 pence per car
Third. — Cablk Power Traction. — The cost of working, based
on offers received, and adding thereto the further charges and
int«reet as before stated, amounts to 5-053 pence per car mile.
It would thus appear that mechanical power by electric accumu-
lators is fully a penny per car mile ran less than animal traction,
and by cable haulage, on an extended system, a saving of rather
under a penny per car mile run.
Mechanical haulage should be less liable to increased cost from
encb incidents as are liable to aQect animal haulage. For exeunple,
provender for the horses on the Glasgow tramways has cost for the
half-year ending December 31, 1891, fally 21 per cent, more than
in the half-year ending December 31, 1890, and it is the cost for
the year 1890 on which the foregoing figures have been prepared.
The increased coat per car mite for provender alone will De about
one-third of a penny per car mile run.
Of course the cost for animal haulace in Glasgow is an ascer-
tained fact. The cost of mechanical haulage, as before eiven,
although mainly based on offers received, has nevertheless some
items, such as maintenance of track, etc., which can be actually
ascertained only when such systems of haulage have been in use
for some time, but the margm of about a pennv per car mile in
favour of mechanical baula^ should be an ample allowance for
such contingencies.
The receipts on tramways worked by mechanical hanl^e are as
a rule Kreater per car mile than on cars worked by animal power.
PORTSMOUTH.
According to our advices the question of electric lighting at
Portsmouth has not been settled without some squabbling. We do
not approve of the procedure, but refrain from criticism, being
content to give the position of affairs as it seems to stand at the
present time. At the last meeting of the Council the Electric
adopting Mr Shoolbred's scheme for the electric lighting of the
borough be rescinded ; submitting Prof. Gamett's report, and
recommending its adoption ; and recommending, farther, that the
committee be authorised to acquire a sufficient site for the central
■lUa, in moving the adoption of the first recommen-
dation, said Mr. Skoolbred's estimate in respect of the private
lighting scheme was that each lamp would earn £1. 68. per annum,
whereas it came to the committees knowledge that the average
earnings of a lamp were only £1. They invited Mr. Sboolbred
down to prove his estimate, but the only English town he cited
in support of this figure of £1, 6s. was Bradford, The speaker
then went to Southampton, where the nearest electric lighting
station was in existenoe, and found that the average earniuKS per
lamp there were only 18s, To adopt Mr. Shoolbred's scheme,
under the circumstances, would probably have meant a loss of
thousands of pounds of the ratepayers' money per annum. Under
these circumslancee the committ«e felt it was only the right
thing to do to come before the Council, admit their mistake, and
make the present recommendation that the resolution adopting
Mr. Shoolbred's scheme be rescinded. Prof. Garnett's report did
Mr. Dlttm>n seconded the resolution.
Aldanuai XlUa next moved the second clause, recom
mending that the scheme and report of Prof. Oamett should be
adopted, that he be appointed as consulting engineer, and that
Messrs, Waller and Manville be appointed superint«ndBnt engi-
nvors, the toes for both together being £1,600. Ha said they were
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 12, 1892. 187
not propoaine any aew-fBQgled DObloo which hod oot been tried io
other towns, bnt ons which would, whan the whole of their li{;htfl
were Soin|{, ^re n profit of £3,000 per jsar. He farther said that
kU the practical men to whom he had mentioned the utilisation of
the tide in producing power for electricity had laughed at the idea
Mr. n. F, ro«t«r seconded the clause.
Sir W. Flak disclaimed having any anta^niam to the scheme
or to any desire for noatponing the matter, but he moved aa an
amendment the resolution of which he had i^ven notice, and
which was as follows : " That it be an instruction to the Electric
lighting Committee to consider and oht«in information as to the
posribility of utilising tidul power for the lighting of those parte
of the borough contemplate in the proviaionat order, and to
report to the Council, He supported his view by reading a
lett«r from Colonel Crease, who paint«d out the value of the power
o( the tide at lAngstone Harbour. Another letter which heread was
from SirF, Bramweil, who held a similar view, and sugeestod that a
bridge between Hayling and Southaoa might be included in the
ecbeme. He knew that the electrical papers had " pooh-poohed "
Prof. Garnett'a report as to electricity lor Portemoutb, but with
that he had nothing then to do, though if by a few weekf' post-
ponement tbef could only get a const&nt power with only a first
expenditure it would be worth consideration.
Mr. Millar seconded the amendment, and depreoated the adding
of another burden to their present debt for that which would be a
luxury only.
After a long and acrimonious discussion, the amendment was
loet by the ca^ng vote of the Mayor, and the resolution carried
by 21 to 17 votes.
A lecture on " Electric Lighting " was given the other evening
before the members of the Lynn Students Association by Mr. G. J.
Silcock, C.E.
Mr, SUoook. in tbe course of a long and carefully- prepared
lecture, dealt with the ancient mode of lighting by torchee, oU
lamps, and gas, which, he said, were immense strides towards a
Eeriect system, though he hoped to convince them that electric
ghting was far in advance of either, more especially from a health
point 01 view. Although only of very recent growth, it had come
to a very high state of excellence, and was now long past the
experimental stage. This result was due to the fact that there
were and had been many workers in the field, amongst them
men with the keenest scientific intellects and the beat scientific
training of the day. No satisfactory answer could be given
to the enquiry, "What is electricity*" though there was
perhaps no phenomenon of nature which had been more
oloaely studied, or wboee effects ooald be more accurately
measured and foretold than electricity. It could be conveyed
from one point to another by means of conductors, and was
prodaced by friction, chemical combustion, and by induction.
Having expUined the technical terms used in electrical matt^,
he went on to describe the various machines by means of
diagrams, following with information as to the working of incan-
descent and arc lampe. Storage of electricity was also dealt with,
and as to the coet he said that tt was a mistalcen idea to suppose it
was very expensive, and therefore only tbe light of tbe rich. The coet
was very little in excess of gas, and if all circumstances wei« taken
into consideration it was much cheaper. One pound of ooal
plooed in a retort and distilled would produce about five cubic
feet of gas, which would produce with the best appliances a light
of 16 candles for an hour. If the same coal was jilaced in a boiler
and used to make steam to drive an engine and dynamo, it would,
in an incandescent lamp, give three times the light, and in an arc
lamp IS times as much. Electric liehts were so easily lighted
Uiat a great saving was effected by those who used it, because
they only turned the l^ht on just when they wanted it,
whereas the trouble of lighting gas and putting it out
prevented it being so economioaUy used. A saving was also
effected, because furniture, et«,, was not deUriorated as with gas.
When health was considered, electric lighting was a long way
•head of all other means of lighting. Gas, candies, petroleum,
etc., contaminated the air, and loaded it with carbonic gas,
aolpburic, and other injurious gases. The latter part of the
lecture was illustrated by diagrams giving the oxygen consumed,
carbonic acid produced, the air vitiated, and the heat produced by
tbe combustion of certain bodies burned so as to give the light of 12
standard candles for one hour. He concluded by expressing the
hope that it would not be many years before there was a public
■upply of electric light in Lynn, by means of which any house-
holaer who desired it might be supplied.
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
UTBBPOOL OVERHEAD BAtLWAT COMPANY.
The half-yearly meeting of this Company was held on Tneeday
at Liverpool. Sir William Forwood presided.
Tbe ObalnMtn, in moving the adoption of the report, said they
had spent during the past half-year in the consU^ction of the
railway £103,515, which made a total expenditure up to date of
£X5T,wl. ^e construction of the railway had made nipid
progi—a ; tht line vaa completed more than half' way ; the fonnoa-
tione were oompleted right over the whole length ; and nearly all
the oolumns bad been fixed. The Directors had latelv visited
the Electric Construction Corporation's works at Wolverhampton
and inspected the electric plant, and they were satisfied that when
brought into play it would work effectually. They expected that
the railway would be completed and open for traffic daring th«
autumn.
Kr. Ktohard Hetaen seconded the motion, which was carried.
A special meeting
poeal to raise £75,01
amount.
The dwlrnuji said tlie resolution was a formal one, and it was
i^eed to nan, ran.
A further special meeting was held to decide as to the promotion
of a Bill in Parliament "to extend the Ume for the construction of
certain authorised railways, and to authorise the Liverpool Over-
head Ridlway Company to make certain extension railways, and
for other purposes,"
The Cbalmuui sait
an extension of time, they thought i. . — _ . , .
include two other projects, one to extend the south end of the line
some 800 yards, so as (o bring it into connection with the Cheshire
Lines system, and another at the north end, 200 yards in length,
as far as the Crosby.road and close to the Lancashire and Yorkshire
line ; thus placing the overhead railway in direct touch with
Manchester, East lAncash ire, and Yorkshire, as well as important
suburban and residential districts, greatly to the conveoienoe of
manufaoturers and others.
The resolution was adopted.
Iroad-
CDBA SOBHARINE TELEGRAPH COHPAHf.
The forty-first ordinary general meeting of this Company
held on Wednesday at the Company's offices, 58, Old Br
street, E.G., Mr. Thomas Greenwood presiding.
The C&alrniBB said that the accounts very much resembled
those that were presented 12 months ago, the dillisrence on
either aide being vei? small- Their income had been £390
more than that of the corresponding period last year, while
they had saved about £50 in working expenses, which gave
them £370 to the good, comparing one half-year with the
other. They had taSen from the balance £170. These sums
together enabled them to pat to the reserve fund £5,0OQ, as
wainst £4,450 in the corresponding period of the previous yt»t.
Nothing had k>een spent on repairs, as there had been no interrup-
tion of their oables. The average amount spent on repaire eaoh
baU-year would amount to £3,000, a sum which, though it did not
figure in the present, would in some futnre accounts. He eoa-
oluded by moving the adoption of the report and acoaanl«.
This was seconded by Mr. AlexKBdar T. Low, and carried.
Dividends at the rate of 10 per cent, per annum on the prefer-
ence and g per cent, on tbe ordinary shares were afterwards
declared.
COMPANIES' REPORTS.
BIEHIHGHAM ELECTRIC SUPPLY COMPANY.
The following report of the Dlrectots will bo Bubmitt«d to tho
shareholders at the forthooming ordinary general meeting of the
Company ;
Your Directors have pleasure in presenting their report and
balance-sheet for the past nine months. It will be in your recol-
lection that the accounts presented at the first annaol meeting
were made up to March 31 last. The alteration of the date m
closing the financial year has been adopted to accord with the
requirements of the Board of Trade. The accounts submitted
herewith show a profit of £713. 16s. 4d,. and, taking into oon-
sideration the fact thattheae accounts include the supply during the
six summer months, the result cannot but be deemed satisfactory.
Of this sum the Directors have applied £351. 16s. 7d. to depreciation
reserve account, and recommend that the l>alance be carried forward
to next year's account. 'The capital expenditnreon buildings, plant,
and mains during the nine months amounts to £7,701. 16e. 7d.,
this sum including a battery of accumulators and a fourth engine
and dynamo. The demand for Che light has been moat satia-
factory— the total number of lO-c.p. lampe, or the eifuivalent, on
order at the 31st Decemtter being 5,4<^), which has since been in-
creased by additions to 6,100. It will be of interest to note the
company have now on their books as customers two hotels,
five dubs, fonr public buildings, two institutions, 11 restan-
rants, 60 shops, two banks, eight insurance offices, 56 general
offices. From the very readv way in which the liglit has been
taken np the Directors fully anticipate a luge increaae
the output of the ataUon, and in contemplation of thia
iropoee putUng down farther plant to meet such demand,
ao intei^ed to extend tbe mains through a portion of ti>e
allotted to the Ccmpanv Uat year. There still remain of
the Company's capital 5,625 abarea unallottod, and the Direoton
consider ttut the time has arrived what it will be an advaotam to
the Company that these aharea should be token np. Tbaoe will at
once be offered to tbe sbareboldere, and afterwards to the pobtio,
at the discretion of tbe Direetors. Two Directors, Mr. J. t,
Albright and Mr. G. H. Jobnatono, retire, and, being eligible,
offer themaelveB for re-«Ieetion, The auditor*, Meaars. Sharp,
Paroons, and Ca, retire, and, being eligible, offer t|ieipsel*«fl lor
re-eleation.
they profK
168 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 12, 1892.
NEW COnPANIES REGISTERED.
Tavemler's rreaoli Patents, Limited.— Registered by Williams
and Neville, 23. Austinfriars, E.G., with a capital of £1,200 io £1
shares. Object : to acquire from A. E. Tavernier an electrical
apparatus for the automatic indication of fire and the rise of
temperature in the bearings of machinery, and the patent rights
belonGfing thereto, and to develop and turn to account the same,
in accordance with an agreement, particulars of which are not
given.
BUSINESS NOTES.
Great Northern Telegraph ComiMAjr. — The receipts for
January were £20,000.
The Northern Kleotrio Wire Ckmipaajr, of Halifax, have been
able to again declare their usual dividend of 7i per cent, per
annum and carry forward a credit balance to next year's working.
Dividend. — The Tel^raph Construction and Maintenance Com-
pany propose a dividend of 15 per cent. (£1. 16s. per share) in
addition to the 5 per cent, already paid, making 20 per cent, for
the year 1891.
City and South London Baiiway.— The poll demanded by Mr.
Middleton at the meeting of this Com^ny last week, on the
question of the approval of the Islington Extension Bill, was taken
at the Company's offices on Tuesda^^ last. The result was a lai^e
majority in favour of proceeding with the Bill. The receipts Syr
the week ending 7th February were £824, against £702 tor the
corresponding period of last year, showing an increase of £122.
The receipts for last week showed an increase over those for the
week endmg January 3l8t of £1.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS. 1892.
1876.
1878.
1880.
1883.
1906.
1908.
1924.
1927.
2008.
2012.
2016.
2017.
2020.
2026.
2055.
2064.
2106.
2109.
Febbuary 1.
Imprmrementa in altemating^onrrent eleotromotors.
Rankin Kennedy, Carntyne Electric Works, Shettleston,
Glasgow.
Improvementa in means or apparatus for proteoting
nndargrottnd etoetrieal eondnotors. Frederick Davis
and Rookes Evelyn Bell Crompton, 55, Chancery-lane,
London.
Improremente In eleetrloal ■onnd-prodnoing apparatus.
Arnold Beaumont Woakes, 78, Harley-street, London.
Xmproreaients in eleotrioal telephone transmitters
William Lucas and Thomas Alexander Garrett, 53, Thorn*
hill-square, Barnsbury, London.
Improvements in shades for eleotrie lamps. John George
Byworth, 323, High Holborn, London.
An improved form of antomatio aoonmnlator, oharging
switoh, and safbty ent-ont. Thomas Barnet Grant, 15,
George-street, Mansion House, London.
An eleotrie switoh. George Sylvester Grimston, 28, South-
ampton-buildings, London.
An improvement in seeondary voltaio batteries. William
Joseph Starkey Barber- Starkey, 28, Southampton-build-
ings, London.
February 2.
Improvements in eleotrie light deeorations. Edmund
Rathbone, 4, Clayton-square, Liverpool.
Improvements in synohronons eleetrioal signalling appa-
ratus. George William Hart, 11, Furnival-street, Holborn,
London.
An improved hlook for nse in forming eondnits for eleo"
trioal or other eahlos or wires and for analogous pur-
poses. John Price, jun., 17* Southampton-buildings,
London. (Complete specification.)
A new or improved method of and means for making sine
rods for eleotrie hells and batteries. George Turner,
46, Richmond-road, Dalston, London.
Improvements relating to eleotrioal signalling on
railways. Charles William Catt, 6, Bream's- buildings,
London.
Improvements in eleotrie telephones. Henry Harris Lake,
45, Southampton-buildings, London. (Elwood Aristides
Grissinger and Theodore Grissinger, United States.)
(Complete specification.)
Improvements in or relating to M^paratns for olosing
eleetrio oironits, for nse in oonneotion with position
nnders or the like. William Lloyd Wise, 46, Lincoln's-
inn-fields, London. (Giulio Bertolini, Italy.)
February 3.
Improvements in the oonstmotion of eleetro-pnenmatie
pressellss for eleotrie bells and signals. Walter David
Parr, 167, Gruneethorpe-road, Sheffield.
Improvements in heating and welding by eleotrioitjr.
Henry Howard, 24, Southampton-buildings, London.
Improvements in arrangements and apparatus for tele-
graph messagsslgaalllag and other parposes. Frederick
ITioiaM HoUioB, IQ, Forest-drive Bast, Leytonstone Elsaex
February 4.
2163 Improvements in eleetrio measnHng apparatus. Rookes
Evelyn Bell Crompton, 55, Chanoery-lane, London.
2198. Improvements in eulverts for eleotrie mains. Fred
Thornton and Latimer Clark, Muirhead, and Co., Limited,
24, Southampton-buildings, London.
February 5.
2225. Improvements in the method of pnrlfying eleetroljtes
containing sine, relating to or oonneeted with the
eleotro-metallnrgio prodnetion of sine. Geoi^ Nahnsen,
38, Alexander-strasse, Berlin. (Complete specification.)
2254. Improvements in or oonneeted with the holders of Ineanp
desoent lampa William Phillips Thompson, 6, Lord-street,
Liverpool. (Max Fuss, Germany.) (Complete specification.)
2260. Improvements relating to the heating of metals by sloe-
triolty and to maehlnos therelOr. Henry Harris Lake,
45, Southampton-buildings, London. (George Dexter
Burton, Arthur Herbert Eddy, and George Sift Briggs,
United States.)
2278. Improvements in and relating to eieetroUers or pendants
and standards for eleetrio lamps. Thomas Coombe
Moore, 11, Southampton-buildings, London.
2283. Improvements In systems of eleetrio distribution.
Benjamin Joseph Barnard Mills, 2,3, Southampton-build-
ings, London. (Harry Ward Leonard, United States.)
2290. Method or prooess of eleetrio riveting. Elias Elkan Ries
430, South broadway, Baltimore, Maryland, United States.
(Complete specification.)
February 6.
2312. Improvements In shade earriers for eleetrio lamps.
Bernard Mervyn Drake, John Marshall Gorham, and James
Saword, 66, Victoria-street, Westminster.
2.329. Improvements In prooess and M^paratus for blesehing
by eleotrolysls. Oliver Imray, 28, Southampton-buildings,
London. (Thomas James Montgomery, United States.)
(Complete specification. )
2330. Improvements in eleetrio switehios. Edward Alfred
Gimingham, 28, Southampton-buildings, London. (Com-
plete specification.)
2336. Improvements In dynamo-eleotrie maehlnos. Hubert
Doyer, 46, Lincoln's-inn-fields, London.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1883.
2673.
6266.
1804.
2732.
3417.
4235.
4392.
4471.
8d.
Seeondary batteries, ete. WiUiams and Howell. (Seoond
edition. ) 8d.
1890.
Sleetrolysls. Marks. (Second edition ) 8d.
1891.
Kleotrio motors. Redfern. (W. Lahmeyer and Co.) 8d.
Kleotrio lamps. White. 6d.
Oalvanie battery. Munns. (Smith.) 8d.
Kleotrio telegraph trsnsmitters. Fletcher.
Kleetrioal bell, ete. Entwistle. 8d.
Xleetrieal switchboards, etc. White. 6d.
4482. TOIephenie switohboards. Prickett, 8d.
4678. Kleotrio terminals. Pitkin. 4d.
4757. Kleotrio reduetlon of aluminium, eto. Wilson. 8d.
4781. Galvanio battoHos. Engledue. 4d.
4877. Kleotrio batteries. Laka (Street and another.) fid.
5135* Kleotrio motors. Southard. (Amended.) 8d.
5547. Kleotrolytio deoomposltien. Kellner. (Second edition). 8d.
10307. Dynamo-eleotrie maohinos. Coeper. 8d.
19233. Kleetrto raUways. Munsie. lid.
20936. Kleotrio heating. Dewey. 8d.
21245. Kleotrio alarm, eto., elooks. Clerc and others. 6d.
21870. Voltaio oOUs. Lake. (Clark.) 6d.
21961. ReUys, telephones, eto. Lake. (Cuttris.) 8d.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHAR£ LIST.
Name
Brush Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, Qutta Percha A Telegraph 0>
House-to- House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Kleotrio Constmotion
Westminster Kleotrio
Liverpool Klootric Supply |
Price
Paid.
Wednea
d*J
«HM»
8i
2i
10
23
5
5
—
9
6
H
34
H
8j
6
4|
10
H
—
6J
6
r>
8
2^^
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19,
169
NOTES.
V
Stuttgart. — The central electric station at Stuttgart ie
to be opened this week.
Coventry. — ^This Council have adjourned the question
of electric lighting for six months.
Telephone in Rnssia. — Oatschina, the summer resi-
dence of the Czar, is now connected by telephone to St.
Petersburg.
Harwich. — A motion not to proceed with the pro-
visional order has been deferred pending negotiations with
the gas company.
Areas Ptating, which we recently described, has been
applied with success to electrical, philosophical, and mathe-
matical instruments.
Mr. Teela's Lecture. — Mr. Tesla is to repeat his
lecture on vibratory currents before the French
Franfaise de Physique.
Klmore in Austria. — It is stated that water power is
being taken in Hungary for the establishment of an Elmore
copper-depositing plant.
Tarmouth. — The borough surveyor has been authorised
to visit the Crystal Palace Exhibition to examine the
systems of lighting there.
Southampton. — The Baths Committee have authority
to appoint an engineer, at a salary of £1. 15s. per week, to
attend to the boilers and electric plant
Northampton. — ^At thecommemoration ball to celebrate
the opening of the extension of the Town Hall, the electric
light was utilised for decorative purposes.
Leamington. — The town clerk has been instructed to
inform the Aurora Electric Company that no consent to
its application for a license should be given.
The Snowstorm. — A fall of snow, making itself more
especially felt in the North, this week cut off Leeds from
telegraphic communication with London and the Continent.
Wljhkg Machine. — A flying machine, on the model of
the flying fox, driven by a 3-h.p. electric motor, has been
built by Messrs. J. Shaw and Son, of Coventry, for Major
Moore.
London Telephones. — The London County Council
have decided to enter petitions against the Bills of the
National Telephone Company and the New Telephone
Company.
Regent-street Mains. — ^The London County Council
have approved the laying of Siemens's armoured cable in
Beak-street and Carnaby-street by the St. James and Pall
Mall Company.
Cheap Fares. — The Lambeth Vestry have decided to
oppose the Waterloo and City Eailway Bill if the pro-
moters do not insert a clause providing cheap fares for the
working classes.
Standard of Light.— Prof. Vivian B. Lewes, F.I.C.,
F.C.S., of the Royal Naval College, Greenwich, has been
appointed secretary of the committee for investigating the
standard of light.
Nottingham. — ^A deputation from the Nottingham
Town Council visited the Crystal Palace on Tuesday, and
were shown round the exhibition under the guidance of
Bir. W. H. Preece, F.RS.
Hueknall Huthwaite. — A resolution has been passed
that unless the application for a provisional order for gas
lighting were at once withdrawn, the Board would light
the streets by other means than gas.
Liverpool. — At the meeting of the gas company on
Tuesday, the chairman, Mr. K I^wrence, said that, in spite
of high prices and the competition of electricity, the con-
sumption of gas was steadily increasing.
Cardiif. — A meeting of the Cardiff Electrical and
Lighting Committee was held on Tuesday. The question
of lighting Upper Orange and Saltmead was further con-
sidered, and the borough engineer was requested to report
thereon.
St, Olave's.— The St. Olave's Board of Works have
approved of the objection offered by the Board of Trade to
the application of the Camberwell and IsUngton Electric
Light and Power Supply Company for a provisional order
in the district.
Antwerp. — The system to be adopted at Antwerp, pro-
posed by M. Van Rysselberghe, consists in distributing
water at high pressure with turbine and dynamo in each
house ; in fact, the Popp system again, with water instead
of compressed air.
Institute of Seoretaries. — An institute of secretaries
has been formed to act as a central body in the same way
as institutes for other professions. The first genend
meeting was held last month at Winchester House, Mr. K
C. Wickes presiding.
Hawiok. — On Monday night the High-street of Hawick
was lighted with the electric light The Corporation will
continue the experiment for three months, and if successful,
will adopt the electric light instead of gas. The experi-
ment will cost £100.
Taunton. — ^The Committee of the Town Council has
received an amended offer from the electric lighting company
as to the purchase of that undertaking, and a sub-committee
has been formed to consider the same. The report thereon
is expected in March.
The Telegraph in Mashonaland. — Telegraphic
communication was on Wednesday finally established
between Fort Salisbury and the Cape. The first message
which was sent over the wire was a congratulatory telegram
despatched to London.
Magnetic Lines of Force. — The monthly meeting of
the Edinburgh Mathematical Society was held last Friday
in the Edinburgh Institution. Prof. Steggall, who pre-
sided, read a '* Note on a Laboratory Method of Finding
Lines of Magnetic Force."
Canadian Telegraphs. — It is stated on high autho-
rity that the Hon. J. J. Abbott will introduce in Parliament
during next session a measure for the placing of the entire
telegraphic system throughout the Dominion of Canada
under Government control.
Paper Shades. — Besides the catalogue of glassware
we mentioned last week, we have received from Messrs.
Paterson and Cooper a finely-printed catalogue of paper
and silk shades for electric fittings which should be of
great use to electrical contractors.
Steamer Struck by Lightning. — An unusual occur-
rence happened lately to the steamer " La Congo," which
experienced a fearful passage on the Portuguese coast, and
in the height of the storm was struck by lightning, several
of the passengers and crew being injured.
Technical Bdueation. — The National Association for
the Promotion of Technical and Secondary Education, of
14, Dean'syard, Westminster, issue an urgent appeal to the
electors of the London County Council for the greater
extension of technical edaca>tioii Iqk l4(^^&^^«
170 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 1892.
St. Petersbnrff. — ^The exhibition at St. Petersburg
seems to be bringing on business. Several Austrian firms,
besides manj French firms, are exhibiting, and it is stated
that Messrs. Ganz have abready received an order from St.
Petersburg for a large central station plant.
Bdinbnrffh Timmways. — A special meeting of Edin-
burgh Street Tramways Company was held on Monday for
the purpose of considering a proposed Bill in Parliament
to authorise the company to work their tramways by cable
or electrical power. The motion was unanimously carried.
Telephomes. — ^Messrs. Woodhouse and Eawson send us
their price-sheets of telephones, transmitters for domestic
and long-distance telephony, embracing wall sets, inkstand
sets, desk-shaped sets, military telephones, and cheap
domestic sets of great convenience for private telephone
installations.
Sleotrio Advertisinflr. — Mount Washington is to be
capped by the largest search-light in the world by railway
and hotel men as a curious advertisement to draw visitors.
It reminds us of our little tale, which was so seriously
and widely copied, about the search-light beacon on Mount
Kilimanjaro.
London Telephone Servioe. — A special general
meeting of the London Chamber of Commerce is to be
held on Monday, at 2*30 p.m., for the purpose of discussing
the general position of the commercial community with
regard to the telephone service of London, and the tele-
phone Bills now before Parliament.
Wiring Honses in the City. — The City of London
Electric Lighting Company have issued a circular
embodying the general conditions to be complied with in
wiring houses for the electric light. Pressure on our space
prevents us doing more than refer to it this week. Copies
can be obtained at the office of the company.
Haaley. — ^At the Hanley Town Council meeting, on
Tuesday, on the proposition of the Electric Lighting Sub-
Committee, it was resolved to advertise for specifications
and estimates of the cost of plant and distributing mains
and machinery for lighting by electricity the area con-
tained in the second schedule of the Hanley provisional
order.
Wffantic Blectrioal Trust. — ^A Dalziel's telegram
from New York says that an electrical trust has been
formed by the consolidation of the Edison Company with
the Thomson-Houston Company. The capital of the trust
is to be 50 million dollars, and the president will be
Mr. H. M. Trembly. The new combination will be the
only rival of the Westinghouse Company.
Sima-Bdison Torpedo. — ^A large number of scientific
men, with nearly all the naval and military attache,
witnessed the first public trial of the Sims-Edison torpedo
at Portsmouth on Monday. Mr. Sims explained and
worked the torpedo in person as on the previous private
official trial. Further improvements are yet being made
both in reducing the size of the weapon and of the cable.
Melbourne. — Separate tenders are invited by the
Council of the City of Melbourne for the supply and
delivery of (1) electric light plant; (2) cables and
insulators. Tenders will be received until April 2nd, and
must be addressed to the Bight Worshipful the Mayor
of Melbourne, Victoria, endorsed " Tender for " (as
the case may be). Mr. John Clayton, town clerk, Town
Hall, Melbourne.
Fleetwood. — ^The Lighting Committee of the Fleet-
wood Improvement Commissioners have resolved unani-
mously that the reports read upon the question of adopting
the a)actric light in this district be received, and that the
clerk be iaa^vcted to obtm'p from MeBBTB, J, S, B. Goirdoo
and Co., Limited, further details with reference to the
working arrangements of their installation, to be considered
at a future meeting.
Kimberley Bzhibition. — A meeting was held on
Tuesday at the Society of Arts, when a paper on the pro-
posed exhibition at Kimberley was read by Mr. Lewis'
Atkinson, the manager. Mr. Atkinson gave statistics and
particulars of the progress of trade in Kimberley, with
views of the town and country. The exhibition is well
supported by the Cape Oovemment, and the shipping com-
panies will give cheap rates.
Parliamontary. — ^In the House of Commons on
Tuesday, the Baker-street and Waterloo Bailway, the
Central London Railway, the City of London and South
London Bailway, the Great Northern and City Bailway,
the Hampstead, St. Pancras, and Charing Cross Bailway,
the London County Council (General Powers, Subways,
Tramways) Bills, and other private measures were, on the
motion of Mr. Caldwell, read a first time.
Pacifio Cable. — ^Telegrams from Melbourne state that
the New South Wales Government have agreed to grant a
small subsidy for the proposed Pacific cable subject to a
reduction in the tarifil The Victoria Government, how-
ever, is unwilling to grant a subsidy. The proposal is that
the cable shall stsuii from Gladstone, a little south of Bock-
hampton, in Queensland, go thence to Fiji, Samoa, and
Honolulu, and finally touch at some point on the coast of
North America.
Viator Resartns. — " On Saturday," a correspondent
of the Birmingham Daily Post complains, "I travelled in one
of the Bristol-road electric trams, and next morning found
the backs of both legs of my trousers a bright red, evidently
due to the action of acid or acid fumes. If you will kindly
call attention to the matter, no doubt the cause will be
enquired into.'' H'm ! H'm 1 this gentleman now knows
what Shakespeare meant when he spoke of " the imminent,
deadly breech ! "
Chioage. — Plans adopted for lighting the buildings and
grounds of the World's Fair now provide for 138,218
electric lamps, of which 6,766 are to be arc lamps of
2,000 c.p. each, and 131,452 incandescent, 16 c.p. each.
The electric lighting will cost something like l,500,000dols.,
and will be 10 times as extensive as was employed at the
Paris Exposition. The light and motive plant at the expo-
sition, it is estimated, will require 26,000 h.p., of which
22,000 will be required for the electric plant.
The Madras Tramway. — ^In reply to the application
of Messrs. Champion and Short, the local solicitors for
Messrs. Hutchinson and Co., London, for the construction
of a tramway in the Madras city, the Madras Government
has directed that the order sanctioning the line be
published, and that intimation be given that any objec-
tions or additions which anyone has to make thereto
must be made by the 31st March. Orders in regard to
the tramway proposal will then be definitely issued.
TransmiBsion of Power. — ^An interesting instance
of transmission of power for a paper mill has been recently
started in Aachtthal, South Germany, for Herr Friedrich
Kutter. The waterfall 1^ miles away is utilised by a
Girard turbine. The motor, supplied by the Allgemeine
Company, works at 800 volts, giving 80 h.p. at an efficiency
of 79 per cent. Bare copper wires are used, with oil insu-
lators. Another set of plant of 580 h.p. is also used, partly
for lighting and partly for transmission of power for a
number of purposes.
Fire. — We are sorry to record that the premises of the
new and energetic firm, Messrs. Hodges and Todd, of 12,
Verulam-ftreet, Gray's-inn-road, were burnt to the ground
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 1892. 171
yesterday morning. The firm liave been quite busy with
electrical fittings, especially ammeters and voltmeters, a
considerable number of which were ready for delivery.
The premises were insured, though not perhaps to the full
amount. Immediate steps are being taken to carry on the
work in other premises until rebuilding can be accom-
plished, and the work will be carried on as usual.
Arlecdon. — At the Arlecdon and Frizington Local
Board the surveyor, in reference to electric lighting by
water power, said he found the Millyeat stream would be
insufficient in a dry season or hard frost. Recently an
electrical engineer visited them from Leeds, and came to
the conclusion that water power was not avaifable. The
matter dropped, but, perhaps, if it were suggested, a steam
engine would do as well. Engineers other than electrical
are not always wont to leave matters thus on occasions
when water power is not available.
The Inventor of the Three-Phase Motor. — Mr.
C. R L. Brown, in a letter to the N.Y. Electrical Engineer,
states his opinion that Tesla should be asknowledged as the
true inventor of the three-phase motor as used at Frank-
fort, constructed by himself and Dobrowolsky. He draws
attention to Mr. Tesla's patents for the three-phase
current filed October 12, 1887, Nos. 381,968 and 382,280,
and his further patent No. 390,414, filed April 23 of the
following year, which conclusively show who was the true
inventor of the three-phase current system.
Cable to the Asores. — A contract was signed at
Lisbon on February lltb by the Portuguese Minister of
Public Works and the representative of the Telegraph
Construction and Maintenance Company for the laying of
a cable between Lisbon and the islands of St. Michael,
Fayal, Pico, St. Oeorge, and Tercira, in the Azores. The
cable is to be completed in a year. In consideration of
this contract it is expected that the telegraph company
will be in an advantageous position to satisfy more
adequately the requirements of the public between Europe
and Brazil, and the United States of America.
Freight to Chioafiro Bzhibition.— The British rail-
ways have undertaken to carry goods for British exhibitors
at the Chicago Exhibition, to and from the poit of ship-
ment, at half rates. The American railways will charge
their usual rates to Chicago, but will bring back the goods
free at the close of the exhibition. Many of the principal
steamship companies have reduced their rates considerably,
and will take freight for the exhibition at lis. per ton.
Many of them have also consented to adopt a reduced
passenger tariff for exhibitors and their employ6s, certified
as such under the authority of the Royal Commission.
Xzplaiiations at the Crystal Palace. — Old Indian
(meeting electrical friend) : O.I. : ** Ah ! you are the very
man I wanted to see. I wish you wouM tell me what
electricity is, and all about it." E.F. : " Oh, certainly,
with pleasure ; but do you know anything of the subject f "
O.L : " Yes— a little." E.F. : " Well now, would you
know a volt from an ampere if you saw one 7 ** O.L : '' No —
I think probably not." E.F. : " And if you found a kilo-
watt in an open ' field ' would you know how to catch and
use it » " O.L : " I fear I shouldn't." E.F. : " Ah ! I see.
Well, if I should meet you here again another time I will
tell you some more. GkK>d-bye ! "
Railway Parliamentary Committee. — ^It is pro-
posed to appoint a joint committee of Lords and Commons
to consider the numerous electric and cable railway schemes
projected within the limits of the metropolis by Bills
introduced this session. The duty of such a committee
woakl be to report whether underground railways worked
by eleoferioity or cable traction are calculated to afford
sufficient accommodation for the present and probable
future traffic, whether any of the schemes propose satisfac-
tory lines of route, upon what terms and conditions the
subsoil should be appropriated, and whether any of the
schemes should be proceeded with during the present
session.
UflThtninflr Conduotors. — An interesting paper on
the above subject was read by Mr. Alfred Hands,
F.B.Met.Soc., at the meeting of the Society of Architects
last week. He insisted on the necessity for periodically
testing conductors, and said that he had no hesitation in
sajdng that at least 70 per cent, of the conductors in
England were in such an unsatisfactory condition that they
afford only partial protection, and damage might occur to
the buildings on which they are fixed, while a large
number were so absolutely bad that they would give no
protection whatever. He also dealt with the question of
when and where not to connect metalwork in buildings
with conductors.
Obituary. — The death of Major-Greneral Ryrie Alex-
ander, late of the Bombay service, occurred at his residence,
"Redwal," Dartmouth, Devon, on the 10th inst For
several years past it may be mentioned that Major-Oeneral
Alexander had taken an interest in electrical matters, also
in developing inventions relating to improved brakes and
starters, with a view to reduce as far as possible the strain
upon tramway and omnibus horses. He was a share-
holder in several companies connected with the electrical
industry, and for the past three years acted as chairman of
Shippey Brothers, Limited. He had been failing in health
for the past six months, prior to which he was engaged in
perfecting an electric boiler feed-regulator.
The Aurora Borealie. — One of the finest displays of
the aurora borealis ever known in this latitude was
observed in New York on Sunday evening. Telegrams
from various points show that the phenomenon stretched
over a great belt of territory from Iowa to the Atlantic
A peculiai effect was produced on the telegraph system, and
for intervals of three or four minutes at a time the wires
were so surcharged with atmospheric electricity that between
New York and Albany it was even possible to send messages
without the aid of the regular batteries. The current,
however, was intermittent. The aurora seemed to occupy
the whole of the northern heavens, and was beautifully
marked, the colouring being clear and distinct.
Brighton. — An item that should interest Prof. Forbes
and other adherents of the use of destructors theoiy, comes
from Brighton this week, where a lengthy discussion took
place at the Town Council on a report from the Works
Committee recommending the erection of a refuse
destructor on a site adjoining Hollingdean-road. Councillor
Lowther moved that the consideration of the same be
deferred in order that the report might be made more
complete. Eventually, however, the report was adopted.
At the same meeting, on the recommendation of the
Lighting Committee, the Council ordered additional
electric light mains and distributors to be laid down in
Church-street and through the Pavilion grounds and
North-street.
Tannton. — The question of the purchase of the central
station by the Taunton Corporation is still exercising the
minds of the members. At the Town Council meeting last
week, the Joint Finance and General Purposes Committee
presented a report in which they stated that they had
received an amended offer from the electric lighting com-
pany, and have appointed a sub-committee to consider the
same, and the committee hope to be in a position to
report fully thereon at the March GouacU meA^L^^i^ '^^%
1^2 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, Jg'EBRtJARY 19, 1892.
committee are unable to accept the offer of the gas
company to purchase the gas works, and the tendency,
therefore, seems for the Corporation to run the electric
light themselves against the local gas company. This will
be " bad for the Co."
Eleotiio Light for Wool Warehouses. — Messrs.
D. C. Apperly, Carson, and Co., woollen warehousemen,
5, Cripplegate-buildings, and 13, Fore-street, have decided,
after inspecting various installations and systems of electric
lighting, to instal their own plant, consisting of arc and
incandescent lamps, to be run direct from a gas engine and
dynamo placed in the basement. The arc lights which are
found most suitable are of a small size, so as not to be too
glaring, and they are arranged on pulleys in such a manner
as to enable them to be raised or lowered to any required
focus, so that the most delicate colour may be successfully
examined. All the lights have their independent switches,
in order that each one may be turned off and on at will,
and for examining goods special reflectors are being erected.
The installation is being carried out by Mr. A. Bergtheil
for the Wenham Company.
Notation. — L Industrie Electrique, M. Hospitalier's new
electrical venture, comes in handsome form with a series of
interesting and original papers. The use of alternators
with condensers receives mathematical disquisition ; the
standard of E.M.F. is dealt with, theoretically and eluci-
datorily, with special reference to the standard cell of MM.
Bailie et Fery ; an article on improvements in accumulator
practice by M. Roux does for France what Mr. Niblett has
been doing for England ; M. Laffargue also writes on
accumulators; and M. Hospitalier has an article on the
Parsons steam turbine. The French scientific societies are
also reported. M. Hospitalier brings forward his own
particular pet — electrical units and symbols — very strongly
in an elaborate table of eight columns, and innumerable
formulsB in the advertisement pages. The French for
theory and the English for practice — and so the world wags.
Blanohester. — The Manchester Central railway station
was experimentally lighted by electricity last Friday. For
the passenger department 40 Brockie-Pell arc lamps are
provided, arranged in series, and elevated upon poles at the
approaches, and in the station itself, suspended by wires
from the roof. The lamps take 11 amperes each, in a
500volt circuit, of which there are four. The various
offices and the bookstall are supplied with 200 incan-
descent Edison-Swan lamps, each of 16 c.p. Edison-
Hopkinson dynamos are used, and these, with the engines,
which are of over 100 h.p., are placed in Trafford-street,
from which point the communication is by cable. The
installation for the goods department is not completed, but
it is to be supplied with 70 arc and 60 glow lamps, the
electrical arrangements being similar. The improved
appearance of the station was the subject of general
comment.
Bleetrio Heaters. — Electric heating is coming along
surely, though slowly. The editorial hat was ironed in a
very workmanlike fashion the other day by one of the
(General Electric Company's electric heaters, and some elec-
trically-cooked pancakes were distributed at the same time
to a number of electrical devotees, who did not mind tam-
pering with their digestion in the middle of the afternoon.
The pancake, however, was cooked beautifully brown, and
came to maturity in five minutes by the watch. The current
was taken from an ordinary flexible and wall plug from a
lighting circuit, taking three amperes and 100 volts for this
space of time, and cooking three pancakes in series. Many
householders in the flats around Kensington and West-
minster would be glad enough of this cleanly way of
eoaidDg. Chops, we are told, can equally well be brought
to perfection, and a kettle of water can be seen at any time
at the Crystal Palace merrily steaming away.
Bleetrio Commiinioation to Lifirhthonses. — The
members of the Chamber of Shipping for the United
Kingdom dined at the Hotel Metr6pole last week, when Sir
Michael Hicks-Beach was a guest, and spoke with refer-
ence to telegraphic communication with lighthouses and
lightships. He said he felt it absurd to suggest that
£100,000, or any such sum, would be sufficient, and that
he had asked the Post Office to supply an estimate.
Though he did not at all agree that the maintenance of
lighthouses and lightships should fall upon the national
exchequer, he felt that the provision of electrical communi-
cation would be a national service, and should be paid for
out of the national funds. He was convinced that the
country would not grudge a very considerable expenditure
in such an attempt to save life at sea when fair and reason-
able enquiry had been made as to how that expenditure
might be most profitably incurred. The Government
would propose to Parliament to make that enquiry.
Manohester Central Station. — Galloways, Limited,
Manchester, have received the order for the six boilers and
four large engines for the Manchester Corporation electric
light installation. The boilers will be 30ft. long by 8ft.
diameter, of fin. steel plates for 1251b. pressure, and will
be fitted with mechanical stokers as well as double sets of
steam and feed arrangements. The engines will be vertical,
17in. and 34in. cylinders, 3ft. stroke, each to give off 360
brake horse-power (or 1,440 in the aggregate), with a piston-
speed of 500ft. per minute, and will be provided with
special arrangement of condenser. All have to be at work
by the end of July. As regards the steam motors for
this station, Messrs. R Hornsby and Sons, Limited, of
Grantham, have obtained an order for six tandem com-
pound condensing vertical engines. These engines are to
have lO^in. and 16in. cylinders with a 2ft. stroke, and will
be constructed to give off 90 brake horse-power, with a
piston-speed of 480ft. per minute. The consulting engineer
is Dr. Hopkinson, of Victoria-street, Westminster.
High-Speed Eleotrlo Railways. — A note in the
Institution Journal gives some figures by Herr Zipernowski
upon his proposed high-speed electric line between Vienna
and Budapest, a distance of 250 kilometres — say 150
miles. A spoed of 150 miles an hour is proposed, which
the author considers the maximum the wheels will stand
with safety. The trains would consist of one carriage, seating
40 passengers, carried on two bogies with solid steel wheels
8ft. diameter, the driving power being four 200-h.p. motors,
working at 1,000 volts, which necessitates collecting from
a raised centre rail, some 600 amperes. The up and down
lines would be 11 yards apart to avoid the shock of air
when two carriages pass, blowing them off the rails (they
ought to be cigar-shaped). There must be no curves of
less radius than 3,000 metres — say, 1*8 miles — and for
these the outer rail must be raised six inches. The power
would be supplied from two stations by alternating current
at 10,000 volts, transformed down to 1,000 volts, either
using alternate-current motors or re-dressed to direct
current.
Saiford. — A deputation from the Salford Corporation
and Gas Committee paid a visit on Saturday to the exhibi-
tion at the Crystal Palace. The deputation were accompanied
by Mr. Shoubridge, engineer of the Corporation gas works.
Under an order obtained from the Board of Trade, the
Corporation are allowed until August next the exclusive
right of controlling the supply of electricity for lighting
purposes in the borough, and the inspection of the various
types of plant now on view at the Crystal Palace has been
arranged with the object of enabling the eommittee to make
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, I*EBRUARY 19, 1892. 173
some definite recommendation in the matter. It is thought
probable that the Corporation will adopt the plan of inviting
one or other of the lighting companies to take over their
power and carry on the work for a specific period upon
terms to be fixed in the contract. In this case the Corpora-
tion would reserve to themselves the right of taking up
the supply, so that the interests of the ratepayers would in
that way be fully protected. On their return to Salford
the deputation will prepare a report which will be con-
sidered at the next meeting of the Gkis Committee.
LIverpaol. — At the weekly meeting of the Liverpool
Watch Committee, on Monday, the consideration of the
question of the city electric lighting was resumed. The
Corporation at present have power to purchase from the
Liverpool Electric Supply Company the undertaking com-
prised in the parliamentary order of 1889 at the end of 21
years ; they can also acquire the undertaking authorised
by the order of 1891 at the end of 42 years. Some time
since the company applied for the consent of the Corpora-
tion to a provisional order enlarging the time within which
the Corporation could elect to purchase the undertaking to
42 years — that is to say, for both undertakings. The com-
mittee have decided to recommend the Council to consent
to the time being extended to 40 years on condition that
the c-ompany agree to power being inserted in the order for
the Corporation to purchase as a going concern both under-
takings at any time after the 31st of December, 1897, upon
giving 12 months' notice to the company to that effect. If
the Corporation do not elect to purchase the undertaking
under the proposed new powers, they will still be in a posi-
tion to purchase the same at the expiration of 40 years
without paying anything for the goodwill.
English Bleetrloal Exhibits at Chioaero. — Mr.
W. H. Preece, F.RS., as chairman of the Electrical Depart-
ment Committee of the Royal Commission for Chicago, has
written a stirring letter to members and manufacturers to
urge that the electrical department should contain a fine
exhibition from this country. An historical collection will
be made (including, we believe, the first dynamo machine
ever made and the original Atlantic telegraph instruments).
A complete lighting station on English methods is contem
plated. It is important to show how large a share English-
men had in developing electrical science. The first elec-
trician was an Englishman, Gilbert. The first practical
telegraph was laid by Ronalds in 1816. Davy and Faraday,
Cooke and Wheatstone, Wilde and Holmes were Englishmen.
The first electric railway was run in England, and nearly
all the submarine cables in the world were made here. The
artistic developments are carried to a higher degree here
than elsewhere. England is to the front with signals and
high-speed telegraphy. It is to be remembered especially
that large numbers of colonials will visit the exhibition,
and England should not miss this opportunity of increasing
her hold on colonial trade. Applications for space must
be sent to the Society of Arts not later than the 29th inst.
Birmingham Tramways. — A deputation from the
Corporation of Glasgow visited Birmingham on Tuesday
for the purpose of inspecting the Central Tramway
Company's systems of traction, and collecting information
thereupon. Mr. Bailie Paton and Mr. D. Rankine, town
clerk, headed the deputation. They were met at The
Queen's Hotel by Messrs. W. Neale, director ; W. Holmden,
secretary; C. H. Herring, traffic manager; A. Dickinson, con-
raltiDg engineer; J. J. Robins, electrical engineer; and
R H. Diddnson, local superintendent. A special car from
Navigation-street conveyed them to the electric dep6t at
Boumbrook, where Mr. J. J. Robins, the electrical
engineer, explained the system. They afterwards visited
the csUe depM at Hockley, where Mr. A. Dickinson
thoroughly explained the working. An amusing and
dramatically successful incident occurred when the party
entered the electric car at Navigation-street by a passenger
(evidently mistaking the gentlemen for the directors)
tendering his thanks to them for the splendid service they
had provided on the Bristol-road. The deputation
returned by the 4 p.m. train, highly pleased with what
they had seen of the working of the electric and cable
tramways in Birmingham, and expressed their gratification
for the information afforded.
Dynamo Bayers. — Having said all they have to say
upon the making of dynamo machines, some electrical
engineers are taking to giving advice as to buying tkem.
And probably this is not a bad thing to do. For if there
is one thing certain in this world it is, that most men think
they know their own requirements better than anyone else ;
and another thing almost as certain is, that very often
this is just what they do not know. Now, the buyers of
dynamos are to a large extent managers, proprietors, and
engineers of works, who do not always know the points of
a good dynamo. Instead of simply saying, " Ours is best,"
therefore, it pays to point out why. We published an
article recently on choosing a dynamo, and we notice that
another electrical engineer, after having built, bought, and
described many dynamos, is also writing advice to dynamo
buyers. His remarks embody some good points to indicate
to a would-be customer. The dynamo should have stiff
heavy standards, a heavy solid base with plenty of metal
to give steadiness. The centre of gravity should be low —
heating and springing of shafts are sometimes due to vibra-
tion. The speed should be low. It should have self-oiling
bearings and convenient brushholders. The fewer the bolts
and pieces, and the better proportioned the dynamo is as a
pure machine, the better for the user ; and all this in
addition to its commercial efficiency and cost. These
matters are all simple enough to the constructors, but it will
pay to have catalogues and price-lists that dwell on these
advantages for customers to note.
Leeds. — A strenuous letter has been sent on the electric
lighting question to the Leeds newspapers from the
following gentlemen : Reginald T. Hadow, for the Bank of
England ; £. Beckett Faber, for Beckett's Bank ; Robert T.
Haines, for the National Provincial Bank; Charles L.
Mason, for the London and Midland Bank ; £. Beckett
Faber, for the Leeds Club ; Greorge Irwin, for the Leeds
and County Conservative Club; Henry O. Harris, for
Marshall and Snelgrove ; as follows : '* For months past we
have been patiently waiting to take the electric light. Our
patience has so far not been rewarded. Many towns of
far less importance than Leeds have been long ago supplied
with this light, and we cannot think it is the desire of our
County Council to keep this, the chief town in Yorkshire,
any longer in the background. We confidently call upon
the authorities themselves to supply us with the electric
light, or to allow terms to electric light companies suffi-
ciently favourable to induce them to undertake the work.
We do not ask the County Council to supply the light at
an unremunerative rate, but at such a rate as will yield a
fair commercial return. We venture to think that it would
be a wise policy for the Council to recognise the established
character of the electric light, and the desirability of
supplying it concurrently with gas." This is a practical
way for dealing with dilatory town councils, and should
have a decided effect in waking up the authorities who
have the central station scheme in hand. We notice in a
later letter the agents of the Yorkshire House-to-House
Company state that the prospectus of this company will be
issued shortly, and comment with satisfaction on the likeli-
hood shown of a large demand.
174 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 1892.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
Mains and 'I^iansforukrs.
We have more thaa once referred to the energy ahown
hy HesBim Oortfon and Co.'« stafi in the matter of tho
central station at Sydenham, and the laying of the cableg
thence up to and in the Palace. We propoee now to give &
few details relating to the cable-laying, which will afford our
readers some idea of what had to be done. Starting from
the central station, three positive and three negative ^*/^^
Fowler-Waring lead-covered cables, laid in Archer pipes,
convey the electrical energy up to the Palace. The total
length of cable is 11 miles, the route taken having been vid
those roads in which are the most likely houses to adopt
the electric light hereafter. The number of cables will be
increased by two positive and two ne^tive, should the
demand for light at the Exhibition require it. Where the
cables enter the Palace there is a main switchboard, which
allows any main to be switched off for testing purposes.
Thence the mains are run inside the building to the primary
switches of eight 40-UQit transformers, the primaries being
laid in cast-iron pipes. The pressure in the primaries
varies from 950 volte to 1,030 volte, and is r^ui^ in the
motor-tranaformera to 100-110 volte. From the trans-
formers four primaries and four secondaries {all ^^/^^
Fowler- Waring lead^covered cable) are led to the centre
of the Palace underneath the floor. Running down the
centre of the building from the extreme north to the
extreme south end, are a pair of equalising mains. Four
positive and four aeeative cables from each transformer
are toe'd on to these at equal distances, thus enabling leads
to customers to be joined at any point vrithout reducing
the section of the main. Between each transformer on the
equalising main is a straight through cast-iron fuse-box.
V/here customers are tee'd off the equalising mains, the
feeding mains end in a cast-iron right-angled fuse-box, so
constructed that the mains for the stands can be put through
a Sin. cast-iron pipe, which fits into a socket in the top of
the fuee-box, and is taken through the floor of the Palace.
There are three miles of secondary cable (i*/,,} in the build
ing. All the motor-transformers are worked in parallel on
primaries as well as secondaries. The work of erecting
and connecting up the transformers was only started in
the second week of December ; in fact, the whole of the
cable-laying outside and inside the Palace did not begin
until this date, leaving a bare month to completo every-
thing for the Exhibition. Each of the motor-transformers
weighs 6^ tons, and is placed in fireproof brick arches
in the tunnel of the Palace, the said arches forming
the support for the main flue of the building. The tem-
perature in these arches must be felt to be realised. The
space, too, is so confined that not even elbow room can be
obtained all round the machine. These transformers had
to be hauled into position by manual labour on skids over
half the length of the Palace in a dark tunnel, where
even with the aid of electric miners' lamps it was
difficult for the workmen to see what they were doing.
Moreover, the whole of the work, both cable laying and
transformer moving, had to be carried out against time, the
staff working practically night and day, seven days a week,
to completo it. It is therefore very greatly to the credit
of Mr. G. F. Metzger (under whose superintondence the
work inside the Palace was carried out) and his staff, that
Messrs. J. £. H. Gordon and Co. were ready on the
opening day to supply current. It is still more to his
credit that work carried out so hurriedly, and under by no
means favourable conditions, should be found to stand
without a hitoh the test of practical running. We may
mention that the work of laying the pipes from the
central station to the Palace and the drawing in of the
cablaa was superinteuded by Mr. G. Watkina, of Messrs.
Gordon's staff.
Fire PBBCAtmoNs.
Here we may conveniently^refer to the subject of pre-
caution against fire. In the 1882 exhibition several fires
broke out, and caused a considerable amount of alarm
among the insurance offices. This time, however, we may
bo/M that such accidents will be conspicuous by their
M&raaa^ for up to the protant qo% the slightaat outbreak o£
the most trivial charactor has occurred, and yet, as a
mattor of fact, exhibitions like the present one are for
many reasons the most difScult to secure against fire. To
begin with, a large number of stalls are crowded together,
many fittod with drapery and other highly-inflammable
material ; secondly, there is the difficulty of giving to what
is, after all, but tomporary work the permanence which
would charactorise an installation in an ordinary house or
building; thirdly, the lighting of the stalls is done with
a view to show off special goods, and consequently
□umbers of l^bta are employed in a space where
only one or two would under ordinary circumstances be
fitted up ; and, finally, the whole of the viring has
to be carried out in the space of a few weeks — in fact, in a
hurry. It is, therefore, no light work that Mr. Heaphy,
C.E., of the Phcenii Fire Office, has had to undertake in
supervising the whole of the wiring and installing in the
Palace, and it speaks well for the confidence which the
directora of the Crystal Palace have in his knowledge and
practical experience that thov should have invited him to
supervise it for them. Of course, from the peculiar
circumstances of the case, no hard-and-fast rules could
be laid down ; but it is satisfactory to know that Mr.
Heaphy speaks in the highest terms of the way in which
Messrs. Gordon and Co., the contractors for the supply of
cjrrent, and the exhibitors generally have complied with his
requests. Ithasbeen, in fact, amattor of give and take,in which
on the one side it has been recognised that Mr. Heaphy's
only desire was to obtain security against fire, while he, in
turn, did not forget the peculiar circumstances of the case
to which we have alluded above. The chief precautions
adopted have been as follows : There is no network of con-
ductors under the floor ; all conductors are visible, and are
attached to the metalwork of the Palace by porcelain insu-
lators, the idea being that if a fire should unfortunately
occur it should not be hidden away where it might smoulder
and smoke, and from the fact of its magnitude not being
able to be gauged, inspire alarm. A visible fire can be
grappled with at once, its dimensions seen at a glance, and
it need not as a rule cause much uneasiness even among
lookers-on. Wherever possible, all the wiring at the stalls
has been encased, and wnere it could be done without inter-
fering with decoiative effects this casing is made visible.
Mr. Heaphy has also tried as much as possible to
treat each stall as a separate private installation, pro-
vided with double switches and cut-outs at or near to
the point of entrance of the conductors. In the event of a
fire occurring, therefore, at any stall, the Palace staff of
attendants would know at once what to do, supposing the
atallkeepers were absent — viz., turn off the double switeh
before applying water. No conductors that have been
used before have been allowed, and all must be insulated
ith vulcanised indianibber. We have given details above
of the work of laying the mains from the generatiag station
to the Palace, under the flooring to the motor-trans-
formers, and thence beneath the entire length of the
building. What may not be generally known, however,
should be mentioned here — viz , that the floor of the
Pdace is some 10ft. or 12ft above the earth in which
these mains are laid, and that the earth is wonderfully
dry. The consumer's wires are taken off in a cast-
iron pipe, through a cast-iron junction-box provided
with double cut-outs, one for each wire going into
the consumer's stall. Indeed, having regard to the
special circumsUnces and difficulties of the case, the
wiring arrangements have been excellently well thought
out, and have been rendered as safe as they possibly can
be made. In fact, although our experience of this class of
exhibitions dates back to the first that was ever held, and
includes all that have followed, we do not remember one in
which the character of this work, as a whole, anything like
Sualled that at the Crystal Palace. We congratulate Mr.
iaphy on the result, not forgetting that he has been well
backed up and cordially assisted in his endeavours to
minimise fire risk by Messrs. Gordon and Co. and the
greater part of the exhibitors. We should, perhaps,
mention that the Phcenix Fire Office are teking no rialu
at the Palace, especially as it is well known that the
rates have been raised by those offices who do take the
rieka during the contjnuMice of tJie exhibition. In face
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 1892. 175
of tha facta detailed above, and eeeinf; tbat the wiring and 1 of a man of such well-known experience aa Mr. Heaphf^
inUllatioa work haa beea earriod oat under UteauperriBioti | we altogether fall to iiwtihft'n<w«i^^'^ii>&«<iws^
176 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 1892.
The Screen of Lamps.
The exhibit of the BdisoB-Swan Company in the
North Nave calls to mind the state of affairs, 10 or 11
?ears ago, at the world-awakening exhibition at Paris,
t was there the incandescent lamp broke upon the
monotonous discussion of the " division of the light." Our
gas contemporanes often refer to the division of opinion
amongst electric light engineers. Ho w they used to laugh and
chuckle over the diverse opinions about the '' division of the
light," and intimated that such division was beyond the
E)wers of inventors to devise ! But Swan came along in
ngland and Edison in America, both patenting a more or
less perfect incandescent lamp, of small candle-power,
admirably adapted for interior lighting, and thenceforward
it became merely a question of time as to the introduction
of such lighting. Few people seem to understand that the
natural development of such an innovation is in the first
Slace as a luxury, then, like other fashions, permeating
ownwards. It was partly due to this lack of knowledge
that led to the insane speculative boom of the early
eighties, but boom or no boom the luxury was appreciated,
and gradually became more and more patronised.
The tendency of the extensive use of most things is
to reduce prices and increase efficiency. The use
of the incandescent' lamp has been no exception to
the rule. Its cost is now lower and its efficiency greater
than it ever was ; and as soon as the existing patents run
out and the monopoly expires, the price will be still lower.
The Edison-Swan Company is not only manufacturing
incandescent lamps, but also fittings of all kinds, and in
this notice we shall pay more attention to the latter branch
than to the former. Before, however, speaking of these
we must describe the screen of lamps exhibited, and which
our artist, Mr. W. M. Bowles, has delineated in the accom-
panying sketch. In almost all exhibitions there is some
one exhibit which stands out prominently, catching the eye
of the visitor, and impressing its effect upon the memory.
It will not be too much to say that the pike de resistance of
the 1892 Crystal Palace Exhibition will be found in this
screen of the Edison-Swan Company. In years to come
visitors at other exhibitions will ask, Did you see the
Edison-Swan exhibit at the Palace ? As an advertisement,
then, we hold it to be effective ; as an advertisement it was
intended, so that it effectively fulfils its design.
There are no less than 32 feeding cables used for the
lighting of this screen, which, when its full complement of
lamps is on, takes 1,500 amperes of current. The lamps
are divided among five circuits, known by the respective
devices into which they are made up as the '' Border,"
"Name," "Fountain," "Lamps,'' and "Star" circuits.
The screen is manipulated from an overhead platform
erected for this purpose on some of the girders of the
building. Here are the switchboards and numerous
switches required to effect the rapid changes from one
device to another which have proved so attractive to
visitors to the Exhibition. There is a main switch for each
of the above five circuits, which take about 300 amperes.
Each of these circuits again can be split up into 10 of 30
amperes each, by which means a large combination of
devices can be arranged.
The usual method of working is, first, switch on the
" border " circuit by working the small switches one at a
time, until the whole device is complete. Next, all the
small switches of the "name" circuit are put down,
and the whole of the " border " switched out at the same
time as the " name " is switched on, the operator putting
down the main switch for the one circuit with one hand
and pulling back the other main switch with the other
hand, so that the change is instantaneously effected, and
the load remains the same. Another circuit is then made
ready by the putting down the small switches, and the
change made as above described, and so on until
the whole of the devices have been shown. The total
number of tumbler switches in use is 50, besides
five lai^e switches for the device circuits, and two
for the main circuit. The filaments of the two "lamp'
devices on either side of the screen each have a switch by
which either of the filaments can be cut out and flashed
alternately — a very pretty effect We need not go into
^<30^/ BtatiBtics as to the number of himps employed on the
screen. Electrical engineers will be able to estimate the
quantity from the current used, but non-technical readers
may like to know that the total runs up to thousands.
Each of the main device circuits has its ampere-meter,
whilst a Cardew voltmeter enables the attendant to see
that his pressure is all right. A telephone is provided, by
means of which those on the platform can let those in
charge of the transformers know when they are going to
light up.
Underneath the screen is a handsomely constructed
room, the sides of which are fitted with specimens of the
company's manufactures, as is also a stand and table
running down the centre of the room. Opposite the
northern entrance is a very taking exhibit, consisting of a
very large lamp globe, the interior of which is filled with
about a thousand incandescent lamps of all sizes, shapes,
patterns, and colours, being specimens of all the lamps
made by the company. Here and there alone the filament
of the containing lamp, small lamps are lighted to show
the direction and position the filament in sucn a large lamp
would take. The right-hand exhibit entering from the
north consists principally of fittings, among which will be
noticed shades, ceiling roses, switches, etc., some of which
we now illustrate. A porcelain ceiling rose and fuse
is shown. From this, more often than not, a flexible
double wire carries the pendant lamp. The lamp may be
ornamented from a variety of shades or globes, some of
which are illustrated herewith. A form of fitting and
lamp which we understand is largely used, but which we
do not admire, takes the form of an imitation candle, as
shown. Some of these candle lamp stands are of polished
brass, others of porcelain. Their use is illustrated in some
of the decorated interiors at the south end of the Palace.
The screw and centre contact fittings for these imitation
candle lamps are shown in the illustrations, as are the B.C.
holder and insulator.
For table decoration we get the fairy lamp shades, and
the visitor will revel in a variety of other fittings, which
for the present we must leave.
A striking and varied exhibit in the Centre Transept of
the Crystal Palace is that of the General Bleotiio Com-
I>any, a large pyiamid or column formed of thousands of
switches, cut-outs, ceiling roses, and wall plugs, surmount-
ing a large assortment of the most varied electrical fittings,
with motors, electric cookers, telephones, and so forth,
flanked with large mirrors. The General Electric Company
(whose managing director is Mr. Gustav Binswanger) are
very widely known as manufacturers and suppliers of
almost innumerable fittings for the use and application of
electricity in one form and another, more particularly
electrical light and telephones. They are more especially
wholesale makers, and deal only with the trade. They
have many specialities in which they have introduced new
features, and in porcelain fittings of "high insulation"
type they have some admirable features. They are the
English agents for the now celebrated Aron meter ; they
make large numbers of large switchboards, and in telephony
have introduced many efficient appliances, while the
domestic utilisation of electricity has always had their
special attention. At the Exhibition their goods are shown
more for display than for explanation to every passer, so
that although such features as the use of motors for shoe-
brushing and .so forth, and the use of heaters for making
pancakes (which we shall describe in a future number),
appeal strongly to the visitor, yet the mass of their exhibits
are for technical men, electric contractors, and architects.
Prominent among these fittings, of course, are switches and
switchboards. Some of these we illustrate herewith.
The " Link " switch for mains or branch wires is an ex-
tremely good type of switch for ordinary use, for either
large or small currents. It is of the rocking handle or
" tumbler " type, but has a peculiarity in the link action,
which, when the handle is pulled back, either locks the
contact in place or springs it off with a sudden break.
As will be seen from the illustration, a contact bar,
pressed up strongly by spiral springs, has a little loose
link in its centre. This is connected to the bar of the
handle. When the handle is pulled back the bar is forced
between two stout split contact springs, and so makes
contact The contacts for the cables, instead of being of
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 1892. 177
the tjpe where the conductor is tviBted round and prewed
ander a nut, is made of a hollow socket, admitting the con-
ductor, in the case of the main switch, from the back, having
■ide-set screws for binding the cable. The main Link
switch is made in sizes from 90 up to 1,000 amperes, in
heavy gunmetal. The same principle is applied to smaller
switches, which are made in two sizes, to carry five and 10
amperes, suitable for 1 — 8 and 1 — 16 lamps. The main
switches are made with slate bases, the branch switches
usually in porcelain, with either porcelain or brass covers.
simply in a coUeetion of different switcbai with thair caU
outs mounted usually in a glass case, as shown. Almost
all modem buildings are now fitted with some such syetem
as this. Except private houses, where the owner may
prefer to have separate switches on the walls of the room
or in the holders, it is more usual to turn on all the lights
from a distributing switch; and iu public offices, banks, and
large buildings, a man having charge of the key of the ease
goes round before dusk and turns on the switches.
The " H.I ," or high-insulation, system of fittings, wbieh
Lamp iDltatlng Cudl«.
CMiag BsH with Fue.
The " Link " switch is comparatively new, but another
type, to which the name of "Byng" switch has been given,
has been in use for many years. It is a double-break
switch, and is made in a variety of patterns, plain or orna-
mented, and painted in artistic fashion, as shown in our
illastration. The; are also shown with brass covers.
The General Electric Company make up numerous
varieties of switchboards, using cheir switches, ammeters
and voltmeters, and cut-outs mounted on slate bases. A
new type of switchboard now much in use is the corridor
switchboard, used for lighting buildings which are con-
Mcted to the street mains of a central station. It consists
the General Electric Company have introduced, consists in
tha adoption of sjiecial precautions in the china bases of
wall plugs, ceiling roses, and cutouts — always the most
troublesome part of the installation. In all the fittings
on the H.L system there are these special safeguards : A
wall or plug of china divides the two ends of Uie flexible
wire; and no screws, or metal, or other connections pass
through to the back of the base-plate. The first prevents
the loose ends of the flexible from making a short circuit,
and the second prevents any dampness m the wall from
affecting the insulation.
The wall ping on the H.I. *^tem is shown in our
178 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 1892^
illuitration, and embodies aome farther improrementa. I orer, no projecting pronn to get in the way.
The great difficulty in wall plugs ia to gat them to fit seen, the aocket has a split riog standi
tt^ether at once, and also to prevent all aparking. Thia ia ' centre being a *p1it pin. ""
As will be
ig out in air, in the
The "plug fits on this. anH makea
difficult to obtain in the two-prong type. That ahown ia I contact with its stem inside and out. These wall plugs are
aide with concentric oontacte, and fits easily and at once very strongly and aubetantially made, both as regards the
into place, with no danger of sparking. There are, more- | china and the contacts. It must be remembered that being
f HE ELEdTRlCAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 189^. 15-9
morable tboy are at the aervice of everyone, and are used
to connect a lamp, a chandelier, a motor, or a heater, and
often have to carry five timea their usual current
The " H.L" ceiling rose is also upon the same patcDted
pattern. All the connectioaa are on the front of the base,
as Been in the illustration. The flexible comee through the
holes in the plate, and the wires ee one to the right and the
other to the left of the porceudn T-piece. This fitting
also embodiea the principle strongly advocated by the
makers of these fittings, that any fitting from which the
current is led by a flexible, should have a cnt-oat. .These
places are more liable to short •circitit than any other
position, and each should bavA its cutK>ut. In all these
to separate the different wires of the flexible, which are
connected to terminals at each side of a china partition.
Another pattern of lampholder with the same kind of china
socket is used for the loop lampti with spring holders.
The General Electric Company show also a number of
ammeters and voltmeters made on the Donnison principle
in their Manchester works. This principle depends upon
the fact that an electric current passing circularly or
spirally in a helical coil produces an interior magnetic field
01 varying strength — i,e,, the nearer the side of the core of
the solenoid the stronger the field, the centre havine the
least number of magnetic lines passing. Any piece of iroa
pivoted eccentrically mil tend to move into the stronger
Concentrti: Will nsg— " H.I." Bnt*m-
fittings, therefore, cut-out screws are inserted, and being
there contractors generally put the fuses in.
The separate cut-outs on the " H.I." system are also
shewn. In these the wires go straight through the block
and are connected to screws, the screw passing through the
separating porcelain piece, and the cut-out or fuse wire is
inserted on the opposite side. These cut-outs are made
both single and double pole, and also combined for a distri-
buting-board. In the distributing-board now much used
for the separate floors of houses, the main comes to one
pole and the branches are connected to the others, the fuse
nraa stretching between.
In the bayonet lampholder, known as Uie "BeliUe"
boldw, ohiuft mppom art mid* ob the " H.L" prinoiple
" B.I." I^mpboUv.
magnetic field. In the Donnison instruments a piece of
best charcoaled iron, carefully annealed, is pivoted
eccentrically with regard to the axis of the solenoid, SO
that it will tend u) move radially from right to left with
regard to the centre of the solenoid and the face of the
dial, carrying an aluminium pointer with it, from the left
to the right hand. The movement of the pointer is con-
trolled by gravity. The advantages of these instruments
are that a scale can be obtained that is well proportioned,
and between any two divisions of the scale at which the
instrument will be usually working, the movements of the
pointer can be greatly magnified. The resistances of the
voltmeters are self-contained uq ta SQQ s^ibjh. %<st \£>!^».
186 TttE ELfiCtRlCAli DNGIl^BR, FEBRUARY 19, 1892.
THE
tLECTRICAL ENGINEER.
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Nofcee 169
The Crystal Palace Exhibi-
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The *< Joarnal of Gas Light-
ing " V. Eleotric Lighting 180
CSantor Lecture — No. 4 181
Underground Mains. —XI... 182
A Description and Com-
parison of the Methods
of Electric Lif^hting at
Present in Use in London 185
Electricity Applied to Min-
ing—Theory and Practice 189
Elecfcric Tramways on the
Overhead or Trolley Wire
System 186
Some Experimental Lives-
tigations of Alternate
Currents 188
Companies' Meetings 189
Companies' Reports 190
Business Notes 192
Provisional Patents, 1892 ... 192
Specifications Published ... 192
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THE ''JOURNAL OF GAS LIGHTING " v. ELECTRIC
LIGHTING.
The calling a spade a spade has usually been con-
sidered an attribute of bluntness rather than a
characteristic of politeness. It is as impolitic, how-
ever, to hit a burglar with a cane when a bludgeon
is handy, as it is to encounter some critics with soft
words. Our contemporary the Journal of Gas
Lighting, full of mistaken zeal, animated by the
appearance of truth, arrogates to itself a weekly
censorship of all that concerns electric lighting. It
has for years so imposed upon itself by endeavouring
to pick holes where none exist, that at length it has
reached the critical period of assuming the facts and
fancies of its own imagination to be realities with
a tangible existence. It has so long been forming
conclusions upon half-truths, that it has lost the
power to dispassionately discuss whole truths. Last
week a challenge was thrown to *' electrical contem-
poraries," which at first we felt indisposed to take
up unless the gas journal better defined its own
position, but acting upon our motto that whoever
is not aggressive ceases to be progressive, we will con-
sider the merits of the case. The gas journal takes
the figures of Colonel Makins given at the meeting
of the Gas Light and Coke Company, and says :
** We should esteem it a favour if our electrical
contemporaries would let us and the world know their
opinion of these figures, taken in conjunction (say)
with Mr. W. H. Preece's remarks about the marvellous
effects that have followed the introduction of electric
lighting into the Post Office.'' Mr. Preece has again
and again given the figures relating to the actual
cost of the Post Office lighting, and also the fact
that since its introduction the average absence
through illness of the employes has been shortened —
figures and facts that are official, which have not
and cannot be impugned — so that we may safely
leave this part of the challenge till our contemporary
disputes the accuracy of the official statistics.
The figures of Colonel Makins are in a different
category. We assume their correctness, and give
reasons for the deductions we derive therefrom.
The following we presume ar^ the figures referred
to by our contemporary. We take them from the
Times* report :
** They had very carefully looked into the electric
light question as it affected them. The most
important electric lighting district was formed of
what he might call the Bond-street quadrilateral —
Bond-street, Begent-street, Oxford-street, Piccadilly,
Pall-mall, and the Strand. Their rental from that
district in 1889 was ;g77,675, when the electric light
was more than beginning to make itself felt ; and in
1890 the amount feU to ;g74,947, and last year to
;£73,638. They had thus lost in a district which
was more electrically lighted than any place
in the world £4,000 of rental in three years,
while the increase in th^ir rental all over their
district for last year alone was £92,000. He
might say farther that they had got out a list of
typical consumers in every part of their district — the
Houses of Parliament, Marlborough House, the
British Museum, the General Post Office, banks,
clubs, places of amusement, and large tradespeople ;
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 1892. l81
and he found, dealing with this list of eighty-one
consumers, that the rental which they paid the
company three years ago was £91,363, two years ago
the amount was dg88,323, and last year it was
dE87,847. This showed, again, that they had lost
j64,000 in three years among all these great con-
sumers of the electric light. He thought they had
conclusively proved that the electric light was a
light of luxury, and was used only by those who did
not care about the question of cost. He might say
that out of their 215,000 or 220,000 customers only
2,600 used the electric light, or less than li per
cent."
According to these figures, Colonel Makins and
our contemporary assume the total loss due to
competition to be jG4,000 in three years. That is a
convenient assumption, and very gratifying to the
gas interest. Why, then, should we envy them the
pleasure they derive from the consideration of these
figures ? We should not take the trouble to show
the incorrectness of their conclusions were it not for
the challenge they themselves throw out. Our
contemporary must think it has to deal with a
lot of unsophisticated people, if it hopes to obtain
credence in its conclusions. It will be seen that
Colonel Makins speaks of this district as a most
important hghting district ; hence, we may safely
assume that the consumers are large consumers, and
upon this we are asked to believe that 2,600 con-
sumers only spent £4,000 per year upon lighting
during a period of three years — that is, just over 30s.
per consumer per annum. Upon the face of it, this
is utterly ridiculous. The way to arrive at the true
loss would be to collect all the bills these 2,600
consumers paid for electric light, and the total amount
would give the loss to gas. It is needless to discuss
whether a man pays more for the electric light than he
does for gas. If he gets what he wants from gas, he is
ready to pay the same price as for electricity. From
what we know of the district under discussion, we
should imagine the collective bills of 2,600 con-
sumers would be nearer £50,000 over three years than
the amount assumed by our contemporary. As we
have hinted before, this gas journal delights in
half-truths, or the untruth which is more difficult to
encounter than the downright whopper. Let us try
these figures another way. According to one of the
experts at the meeting, if the gas company's affairs
were properly conducted there ought to be an in-
crease in consumption — say of 7 per cent, since 1889.
Now, if we accept this dictum, the income in 1891,
instead of being £73,538, should have been about
£83,000— a difference of £10,000, not of £4,000. We
have no wish to be hard upon our contemporary, nor
do we desire to show up in detail its rather blind
rushing after inferences. It will be sufficient for our
present purpose to indicate how different an inter-
pretation can be placed upon the figures given by
Colonel Makins than that intended when they were
put forward. Surely in this case the moral will be
learned, that in future it will be better for those
interested in gas to deal with generalities and
trivialities, rather than to give figures which may be
used t'other way. This humble advice, by the way,
is not ofiuged/to our gaseous contemporary^ because
it long ago showed that it would heed no morals
and draw no inferences but those which happened
to suit its particular purpose.
CANTOR LECTURE— No. 4.
The last lecture of this series of Cantor lectures
was delivered by Prof. Forbes on Monday last. The
lecturer dealt with two interesting subjects in the
utilisation of water power and the use of destructors
for electrical purposes, taking his text with regard
to water power from the experience at Geneva,
where turbines are used on the Bhone with a fall of
water of only 6ft. to 12ft. to pump up water to a
higher level. This high-level water is that used to
actuate the machinery of the town, and although
the central lighting station is near the low-pressure
turbine station, the power used in the station is that
supplied from the high-level reservoir. To drive home
his moral. Prof. Forbes suggested what might be
done at Edinburgh. Assuming a maximum output of
power required at the central station of 1,000 h.p.
for two hours as being the same as an average
continuous output of 150 h.p., he pointed out that
the existing loch on the top of Arthur's Seat, at
Edinburgh, would about provide water for 1,000 h.p.
for two hours, and could be made to give double this
by the erection of a by no means objectionable dam.
To keep the head of water required, engines of
150 h.p. would be used to pump, and pipes led back to
the central station to bring the water to actuate the
turbines. In other words. Prof. Forbes's scheme
for lighting Edinburgh is to pump up water to the
loch on Arthur's Seat by engine power, to use the
water so pumped to drive turbines which would drive
the generators, and he states that his estimates
show this to be an economical plan. It may
be remarked that 1,000 h.p. would not go far
towards lighting Edinburgh. At the most you
might obtain 7,000 16-c.p. mcandescents, or 14,000
8 c.p. This, again, might allow the wiring of
70,000 of the one, or 140,000 of the other, if we
assume that only one lamp in ten is using current.
It may, however, be safely stated that this propor-
tion is too small. The lighting of Edinburgh
would require more horse-power than was mentioned
in the lecture, but no doubt Prof. Forbes only
referred to that part of his scheme connected with
the special point he was urging on his hearers. A
description of the " destructors ** in use by various
local authorities was next given, Prof. Forbes con-
cluding that the destructor in Eidacre-street,
Leeds, was the best he had examined. A certain
amount of heat generated in these destructors
can be usefully employed, and Prof. Forbes's
moral was contained in the suggestion that a com-
bination of the Geneva plan with the utilisa-
tion of the heat &om the destructor would in
many cases be found economical. Thus, supposing
150 h.p. could be obtained from the destructors,
engines of this capacity could be continuously
pumping water into a high-level reservoir. The
water so pumped could be used by the central
lighting station for its turbine, and a maximum of
1,000 l^^p. Qbtoixi^ fet >^k:|^\2fic^ \jQs:^^^R«^ V^x SioA
182 THE ELEOTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 1892.
bnsiest hourB of the lighting day. This combination
will be new to many electrical engineers. We
think more mention might have been made of
the excellent experimental work of Mr. Bennett
at Southampton. In 1889 Mr. Bennett read a
paper before the MunicipcU Engineers explaining
how he had need, and proposed further to nae, the
waste heat from the desbuctors at Southampton.
We have occasion also to know that the use of
deatmctors has been careftilly examined by other
electrical engineers, and more
than one local authority is at
the present moment discussing
schemes founded on a use of this
apparatus. Prof. Forbes's lecture
will prove usefal in causing more
general attention to be given this
subject.
The trougba are kept in position in the simplest vay
by luga cut on the sections, which interlap, and are fixed
simply by knockinf; in a wedge.
To ensure joints being water-tight, all grooras, receaaed
clamp, and abutting ends are filled with putty. With this
joint the longer it ia immersed in water the harder the
joint becomes. The reliability of this method for makii^
a water-tight joint has been tested by long experience.
Distributing-boxes or hand-holes are placed opposite
every building or party wall, but this not done usually
until the conduit is complete. The pavement is du^ up
and the conduit first laid in blank, bo aa not to neceasitAte
UNDERGROUND HAINS.-XL
JOHNSTONE'S CONDUIT SYSTEM
The Johnstone syetem of electric
conduits has long been m use for
undei^^und mains in some of the
principal towns of the United States
such as New York, Philadelphia and
Chicago. There are already over 160
miles of cable laid on this system 1 1 1
miles of which are in New York
The system is now being introduced
into England by the International
ElectricSubway Company of Albany
mansions, 39, Yiccoriastreet West-
minster, where a complete and full
sized installation is to be seen an i
as it seems to be an eminently prac
tical system suitable for large com
panies,and eepeciallyfor corporations
wishing to keep control of their
streets and aubtraye, we make no
apology for describing it in our senes
of systems of underground electnc
mains.
Tbe essential idea of the Johnstone
system is the use of ordinary insu
lated cables in cast-iron conduits of
such a nature as to allow many sets
of mains or wires to be laid together
. without being confused, and to allow
of jointing for distribution at any
point with the minimum disturbance
of the roadway. The conduit is made
entirely of cast iron, produced without
machine work, and is, therefore, espe-
cially for lai^e distribution networks,
of ecouomical cost
The conduit is built up, piece by
piece, in the form of a caat-iron
trough, Gompoaed of two aections,
laid one upon the other, the edges
being tongued and grooved, and when
laid in the streets, jointed with putty or cement In the
interior of the trough so farmed, trays of cast iron are altd
in, each tray bearing on ita upper surface grooves into
which separating slips of cast iron are also slid. In this
manner continuous ducts are formed to the number desired,
into which the cables can be laid or drawn. In order to give
the utmost facility for jointing, this cast-iron troughing is
made in 6ft lengths, and at any place a section cover can
be lifted and a jointing piece or spigot can be inaerted for
distributing or service mains. In practice the two sections,
tep and bottom, of the trough or conduit are laid bo as
^ AnmJt jamt; m j'oiat tbavfare omum at every 2^ft
lole ol the Johnihine Condolt S;iU
the trench being made larger at any one place. When the
time comes to connect the house, the blank cover is
removed, and a specially cast cover with spigot is inserted.
In this way the wires can easily be got at, either to repair,
test, or join up house services. All the covers are inter-
changeable, and if, needed, the connection with tbe main
can be made from the underneath. The spigots can be
turned round and the joint made from either right or left
hand side as desired.
At central positions such as the intersections of streets,
a large pit is dug and an iron manhols is built This iron
manhole has bwn adopted both aa being very aabitantial
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 1892. 183
and preventing the introduction of moisture. The manhole
is hmit np of various circular cast-iron rings, grooved and
jointed as are the troughs. These rin^ are of several
si»B, and some are made with openings for connecting to
the conduit itself. These are termed the spigot rings, and
it can be seen that such an arrangement allows the msina
to be taken off at any height and in any direction with the
minimnm of previous arrangement or trouble. The spigot
Johnitonc Electric
rings are all of aniform size, and various-sized conduits
are made to fit the same size of spigot. Above the last
ring of the manhole is placed a tapering hood, or top,
made of sufficient strength to take the strain of the street
toaffic. The manhole is closed first by a cover to exclude
noistnre, and above this by a grooved f«ot-plat« laid flush
with the level of the street. The manholes are very large,
and it might, perhaps, be possible to place transformers in
tham in certain positions. The rapidity with which the
nanholei can be built np and the conduits laid along the
streeta is evidently a point in its favour.
The iUnstratioos we give are taken from work as actually
carried out in New York. Any cables can, of course, be
used — ordinary insulated, concentric, and for light, power,
telegraph, or telephone.
In connection with the Johnstone condnits there are
three points to which particular attention is directed —
(1) facility for distribution, (2) accessibility, (3) the use of
cast iron throughout.
The Johnstone system is especially convenient for dis-
tributing wires at any point in the
circuit because of the sectional structure
of the conduit, which enables a junction-
box to be inserted at any time by
simply removing a 5ft. section and re-
placing it by another supplied with a
hand-hole opening or distributing-box.
This feature is very advantageous in
street lighting, where it is often neces-
sary to make joints at points not pro-
vided for when the mains were first laid.
It is equally easy, as is seen, to distri-
bute from the top or bottom, or from
either side.
In making a joint at the hand-hole
used in this system, provision is made
for laying the necessary splices out of
the direct line of the conduit which con-
tains the cable, thus avoiding any danger
to the splice, which naturally increases
the size of the cable at that particular
point This device consists of the pro-
jecting casting or spigot attached atthe
time the connection with the bouse is
made. It extends outside the line of
the conduit, and prevents the possibility
of any injury being done to the splice
by a puBh-rnd for the purpose of drawing
in other cables in the same duct.
The second feature in the Johnstone
system is its accessibility. As it is
impossible to insulate wires with such
perfection that defects will not occur at
some time or other in a conduit carry-
ing a high-tension current, the ques-
tion arises how to do the necessat^
repairs at the least cost, and with as little
delay as possible. One of the great
advantages of the 5ft. sections is that in
the case of a defective wire, the exact
position of which is known, the Gft. top
section can be removed, if necessary, all
the partition shelves taken out, ana the
cables that are in use allowed to swing
or suspend from their respective ducts
over the open place ; the cable can then
be repaired. This operation disturbs
only the defective cable, avoiding the
laborious and expensive work of draw-
ing the cable out from one manhole to
another. After the repair is made the
[>artition shelves can be slid into their
original position, the cables adjusted in
their ducts, and the top section re-
placed, making the conduit equal to its
original condition.
In most devices for underground con-
duits the only way a cable can he
reached for repair, after it has once been
laid, is by removing bodily or drawing
ont the damaged cable, the former necessitating the
expense of digging up the street or pavement from maa-
hoie to manhole, or whatever the distance may be.
In any pipe system of conduits the fact of screwing one
pipe into a union joint, or any device used as the equiva-
lent of a union joint, is very likelv to throw upon the
inner surface of the pipe sharp edges which ^e liable
to cut or damage the insulation of the caole when
it is being drawn in. This is avoided by the use of the
The sections are perfectly fitted together, so that each line
of ducts forms a smooth uainternipted casing through which
184 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 1892.
oabloa can be drawD without
the pogsibility of injoiiDg the
insDlatiDii.
This construction, more-
over, conforms to the present
Board of Trade reeula-
tiooB — viz., that when nigh
and low tension mains are
carried in one conduit the
cable most be entirely
surrounded by a metallic
GOndnctor and each have
its own compartment Lead-
covered electric lieht cables
in an insuUtea conduit
are regarded as highly dan-
nos. Assuming that a con-
is constructM of an in-
sulating material, and that the
cables are lead-covered, the
lead covers of these cables are
in sach a caw conductors,
each one of which might be
charged to a veir high poten-
tial Such conditions would
prevent jointers doing their
work with any degree of
safety, and would make un
dergronnd work much more
dangerous than overhead.
"niese conduits have been
down in America and in use
tor over five years, and are
ondentood to have given
great satisfaction.
The conduits are manufac-
tured in different sizes to
meet the requirements of elec-
trical servicee of various
descriptions, and in price
they compare favourably with
the methods now in use.
Typo A A has 24 ducts with on
.> A „ le
Types F and G are cylindrical cast-iron pipes, 3}in. by
6in. respectively in diameter ; the pipes are cast in two
equal longitudinal parts, they are grooved and fastened
together with keys and wedges. They are in Gft. sections,
and fumiah the same facilities for distribution and access
as the laiver types, and like them have a perfectly smooth
inner sumce.
The Johnstone Bystem of electrical underground conduits
evidently provides for every requirement of electrical
underground service in any desired quantity and of every
description — viz., telegraph, telepnone, electric light,
electnc power district messenger, and fire alarm service,
the cables and wires of which are all times accessible at
anypoint along the line of structure.
We undersUnd that negotiations are in progress for the
immediate laying down of a set of distributing conduits on
this Bvstem in alargs English town which is intending to
introduce the electric light.
Sleotrloltr In tbe Workshop. — A fine example of
the extended use of electric motors for all manner of pur-
poses in the engineering workshop is given in a recent
description (February 3rd) in the New York EUetfieai
Engineer, with illustratione of the Edison Schenectady
works — power house, electric crane, electric derrick, electric
hoist, electric blower, electric elevator, electric shunting
locomotive, motors driving drills, pumps, lathes — the
electric railway round the works, and the boiler-shop, all
run by the universal electric motor. These are the kind
of instances that convert practieal engineers to belief in the
« e
pvMlU ol Uubol* ud CondDlu tn Um JtAtutaiia Srrtaiq
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 1892. 186
A DESCRIPTION AND COMPARISON OF THE
METHODS OF ELECTRIC LIGHTING AT PRESENT
IN USE IN LONDON.""
BY ALEXANDER B. W. KENNEDY, F.R.S., M.I.C.E., ETC.
(Continued from page 186,)
The " transfonner " used with alternating currents is
bttied on the following phenomena : If two conductors of a
at the instant of starting. But at the instant when the
first or primary current ceases, another induced current
appears in the second wire, this time in the opposite
direction to that in which it formerly appeared. If,
therefore, the primary current starts and stops 80 times
per second, the induced or secondary current will be a
similar discontinuous current having the same frequency
and therefore available for the same purposes, if the
primary and secondary wires be alike, the tension of the
C0n/fYw4. SUUiony
//at4^tL
Fio. 1.
■nitable kind, and forming part of closed circuits, are
placed near together and parallel, but without any contact
(that is, comj^etely insulated from each other), and a
current be passed through the one, at the instant of
two currents as well as their quantity will be the same.
By using, instead of a straight wire, the helix of a certain
number of turns to form the primary, and for the
secondary another helix containing a different number of
loooo K"
1 Smk.Mm4a
'^S
7>*M^tA> JK<MM^ns
SuhSietUan^
Omt^^reUu^SUMiiUfn'
Fio. 2.
starting it a current will be found to traverse the other.
This latter current (which is called an induced current)
does not 4X>ntinue, whether or not the originating current
goes on steadily ; it is instantaneous only, occurring just
* Reprinted from the TranMctioM of the Royal Scottish Society
of Arts, vol zia, part 1. Reed May 11, 1891.
turns, the induced current may be made either higher or
lower in pressure than the primary. The quantity of
current, of course, varies inversely as the pressure, so that
the amount of energy transmitted is not altered, except so
far as internal losses affect the efficiency of the apparatus.
In principle the transformer is sim^y a ^jtk ol tnK&ak^B^iS^
186 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 1892.
as I have mentioned. Remember that there is no electrical
contact whatever between the coils, although they may
be in very close proximity. The high-tension main goes
from the station to the primary coil of the transformer
and back again to the station without actually entering
the house. The low-tension main goes from the secondary
coil of the transformer round the house circuits. Apart
from accidents, therefore, the high-tension current can
never actually get into the house mains. Fig. 1* shows
the general arrangement of the circuit and transformers
used by the Metropolitan Electric Supply Corporation. A
is the central station from which a series of circuits are led
through the district D represents a dynamo, with its two
poles connected to one of those circuits. It will be seen
that soon after leaving the station both positive and nega-
tive wires are looped into rings ; the ring may, of course,
embrace many streets. B B are houses in the district to
be supplied with current. There is a transformer, T, and
a meter, M, in every house. Wires from the mains enter
the transformer, pass through the primary coil, and come
out again. The secondary coil is shown separately con-
nected with the lamp circuits of the house. The meter by
which the electric energy is measured is on the house
circuit. The pressure in the mains is 1,000 volts, the
pressure in the house circuits may be either 100 volts or
50 volts, according to the wish of the consumer. Mr. Frank
Bailey, the engineer to the company, is of opinion that a
50-volt house circuit is better than a 100- volt house circuit,
from the view at any rate of the life of the lamps. The
svstem of looped mains shown in the sketch is due to Mr.
Bailey, and has been adopted so that every house on a
circuit can be reached round the loop in two ways, thus
greatly reducing the risk of breakdown through an accident
on the mains. One or more circuits may be connected to
and worked from the same dynamo at the station, but at
present it has not been found possible here to put more
than one dynamo on to the same circuit, or, in technical
language, to run the dynamos in parallel.
The system adopted by the London Electric Supply Cor-
poration, which has been from the commencement designed
and worked out by Mr. Ferranti, differs from that just
described in very many respects. Its general scheme is
sketched in Fig. 2. This company has, rightly or wrongly,
assumed that it was advisable to make its station away from
London. Its generating station is on the Thames atDeptford,
about six miles from Charing Cross. Current is there gene-
rated'by large dynamos ata pressure of 2,500 volts. It is trans-
fordied at once up to 10,000 volts, and transmitted to London
at that pressure by specially insulated mains of most
ingenious construction. These mains lead to two or three
sub-stations in London itself, one In Bond-street, one near
Charing Cross, etc., which contain transformers only, and
where the current is transformed down to 2,500 volts again,
and distributed at this pressure through the streets. In the
customers' houses it is transformed down to 100 volts, just
as in the last case. It is intended ultimately to generate
current at the full pressure of 10,000 volts so as to save
the first transformation. There can be no doubt thut with
such appliances and knowledge as we possess at present
the drawbacks of having three transformers are very great
indeed. Whether or not they are more than counterbalanced
by the advantage of having a station down the river is a
matter which must finally be decided by the result of
practical working.
The system used by the House-to-House Company does
not differ in essentials from that of the Metropolitan
Electric Corporation, except that the pressure in the mains
is 2,500 volts instead of 1,000.
I have said above that the transformer was the trouble
as well as the blessing of the alternating-current system.
Whilst it enables a saving to be made apparently through-
out the whole of the mains, this saving is accompanied not
only bv the very notable cost of the transformers, but also
by such a very great loss in efficiency that it is now most im-
probable that any new high-tension company will be started
m an urban district on any of the plans I have described —
that is to say, with a transformer in the house of each
customer.
{To be caniinind.)
^ The MBm0 Uttenng^ i§ oBod ia all the SgvaeB,
ELECTRIC TRAMWAYS ON THE OVERHEAD OR
TROLLEY WIRE SYSTEM.*
BY W. GIBSON CARET.
The idea of propelling vehicles by means of electric
motors does not appear to have received any serious atten-
tion until about 50 years ago. In 1840, Henry Pinkus, of
Philadelphia, applied for and obtained a patent for a system
of electric propulsion of vehicles, which closely resembles
both the open-conduit and the double-trolley systems. He
proposed to use a continuous slotted tube or conduit,
supported alongside the track and containing two con-
ductors, from one of which the current was to be taken by
a sliding contact and suitable connecting conductor to the
motor on the car, and through the other of which it was to
be returned to the generating station. It need hardly be
said, however, that owing to the imperfect state of the
motors of that day, nothing practicable came of this scheme.
Some experiments in electric railways were tried in
Berlin in 1867 by Dr. Werner Siemens, but it was found
that the Siemens machine as then constructed heated exces-
sively, and the work was temporarily abandoned. In 1879,
however, the same experiments were resumed with more suc-
cessful results. In that year Messrs. Siemens constructed
a line 500 metres in length at the Berlin Exhibition. The
main conductor in this case was a central rail, the outer
rails completing the circuit back to the generating station.
Prompted by the success of this venture, similar attempts
were made at Brussels, Dusseldorf, and Frankfort with
equal success, and two years later Messrs. Siemens put
down a permanent line at Lichterfelde, near Berlin. While
the Siemens were engaged in their experiments in this
direction, Charles J. Van Depoele, Steven G. Field,
Thomas A. Edison, and several others were working on
the same lines in America, and at the end of 1882 a
railway, which was the result of eight years of constant
experiment, was put down by Mr. Van Depoele at Chicago.
After this Van Depoele, Daft, and the Bentley-Knight
Company built roads in quick succession at Toronto, Balti-
more, New Oi leans, Cleveland, and many other places. But
in spite of the rapid progress that was made, as a result of
the experience gained on these installations, it cannot be
said that the electric railway became a practical commercial
success until 1888, in which year Bentley and Knight built
the Allegheny City road, the Sprague Company equipped
the road at Richmond, and the Thomson-Houston Company,
who had by then acquired Van Depoele's patents, built the
Eckington and Soldient' Home road in Washington. On
January 1st of that year there were in operation in the
L^nited States 13 electric tramways operating 98 motor
cars, on less than 50 miles of track. Three and a-half years
later the country could show 354 roads, operating 4,513
motor cars, on nearly 3,000 miles of track. During the last
six months fully 50 more roads have been added to this list.
Such has been the growth of electric traction in four years.
In Europe, on the other hand, the rate of increase has
shown scarcely any improvement. A new area of progress
appears to be opening now. Several Siemens roads, and
the great Bremen system, which is to be equipped through-
out by the Thomson- Houston Company, in Europe, and
recent installations in England, promise to be the nucleus
of a list of electric tramways on this side of the Atlantic,
which will before v^ry long rival in importance those of
the United States. The early inventors first turned their
attention to open conduits, and as long as the lines were
purely experimental ones, constructed on private grounds
over which there was no general traffic, and which was
already thoroughly drained, there appeared to be no diffi-
culty in maintaining the conductors in satisfactory condition.
As soon, however, as it was attempted to apply the
conduit to conditions of actual practice, unforeseen diffi-
culties arose from the impossibility of excluding dirt and
moisture. In the United States alone, at least four
practical experiments have been made in this line, and
many thousands of pounds expended in efforts to construct
railways \x\Hm this principle. The difficulties with which
each attempt met naturally turned the attention of the
pioneers to overhead wires, which were found to be entirely
* Paper read before the Royal EDgineen.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 189-2. 187
free from the objections to which the conduit was open,
.^thetic considerations, however, forbade the adoption of
a system involving lines of poles and overhead wires in
public streets, until every means of avoiding it had been
tried and found inadequate, and again and again inventors
returned to the search for some method of underground
transmission of power. The experience, however, of Van
Depoele, Bentley and Knight, and many others, has left
us little reason to hope that a continuous live conductor in
an open-slotted conduit can ever be made a success in our
city streets, its fatal weakness being the impossibility of
keeping the conduit free from mud and water.
Much thought and labour have been expended in the
attempts to produce a system of closed conduits, having
an insulated main conductor with a series of points or
plates upon the streets surface, which are brought into
contact with the main conductor one at a time as the car
passes over them. None of these schemes have been
extensively tried, but it is scarcely possible to look for
anything but failure as the fate of any of them, unless some
scheme can be devised where the insulation of the live parts
can be maintained. This has not yet been done. Even if
dependable automatic devices prevent the contact i>oints
from being in contact with the main conductor all the
time, if the conduit is filled with mud and water, and the
points are made alive during the passage of the car over
them, there will be a momentary grounding of these points,
and the result will be, if perhaps not so severe a grounding
as that to which the open conduit is liable, at least one bad
enough to cause fatal disaster both at the jiower station
and on the line. If such a system as this can be perfected,
the field for electric traction will at once be enormously
widened, for it cannot be doubted that many communities
are deterred from adopting it only by their prejudice
against overhead wires.
Attention was early given to the propulsion of tramcars
by means of accumulators, but although improvements
have from time to time been made in the batteries, by
which greater weight, efficiency, and longer life have been
secured, the cases in which the storage battery car can
render satisfactory services are few and far between. The
load diagram of an electric car in actual service on the
curves and gradients which it must encounter in our city
streets shows such enormous variations, that provision must
be made for the supply of fully seven or eight times the
average current consumed. A car which nominally will
take 7 h.p. or 8 h.p. may momentarily require, when starting
on a heavy grade, 60 h.p. or 70 h.p. Motors of half of this
maximum capacity can readily stand such unusual demands
when made for only a few moments at a time, but no
battery that has as yet been devised can stand anything
like this rough usage without very rapid deterioration, and
it is impossible to supply the requisite amount of surplus
power in cells without adding prohibitive weight. Ample
experience has proved that the storage battery has not yet,
commercially at least, been brought to that point at which
it can successfully meet the requirements of anything but
absolutely level lines, and these in urban tramways are
scarce indeed. It is of course earnestly to be hoped that
the efforts of those men who are working in this direction
may soon be crowned with success, and no one will more
gladly greet the advent of a practical storage cell than the
manidacturing companies who are exploiting the trolley
wire.
Even the practical American at first objected to the
erection of poles and the stringing of wires through the
streets, but the necessity for rapid transit which became
greater and greater as the growth of the cities made it
necessary for business men and workers to live further and
further away from the places of their employment, made
some substitute for the slow horse-car an absolute necessity
and they early saw that the choice lay between rapid transic
with overhead wires and the expenditure of valuable time
in travelling back and forth between their business and their
homes without them. The installations at Boston, Washing-
ton, and Richmond (Va.) called the attention of street
railwav officials throughout the country to the cleanliness,
reliability, flexibility, and economy of the overhead electric
tyitem, and the opportunity which it offered them to supply
^e public with rapid and comfortable transit at a reduced
cost was at once eagerly embraced upon an enormous scale.
Great pressure was brought to bear upon local authorities
and upon public opinion, and local consents were quickly
obtained in every city of importance throughout the country.
The patents of the principal inventors, which until then had
been owned by a few men of small capital and little
influence, had by this time been taken up by large and
very rich corporations, and upon these orders now began
to flow in for tramway motors at a rate which severely
taxed their output capacity. European conservatism and
the fact that the advantages of electric traction have not
been properly brought before the public have up to now
prevented its adoption on a very extensive scale. As has
been pointed out, this conservatism and apathy are now
beginning to give way, and we may soon expect to see the
advantages enjoyed by the Americans within the reach of
the citizens of many of the prominent towns on this side
of the Atlantic.
This brief view of the various methods of applying elec-
tricity as a motive power for tramways has been necessary
to show the reasons for the almost universal adoption of
the overhead or trolley system. Experience has proved
no point more strongly than the necessity for absolute
thoroughness and as near an approach to perfection as can
be attained, in both design and workmanship, of every
detail. No class of machinery is subjected to more severe
and constantly recurring shocks than electric tramway
apparatus, and no detail, whether of power station, line,
or rolling-stock can be too good, and nothing short of the
best obtainable should ever be used. It is poor economy
to instal cheap and flimsy apparatus, which will from first
to last cause endless vexatious accidents and swell the
repair bill to proportions that will far outweigh the
interest on a more liberal investment.
In considering electric tramways, it is customary to
divide the subject into and consider it under the following
heads — viz., (1) the line ; (2) the power station ; (3) the
rolling-stock.
Under the first of these come the trolley wire, the
poles, span wires, or other devices used for supporting the
trolley, the feed wire, and the track. With regard to
the first, it was easily foreseen and early proved that
the currents of large and varying volume, if returned to
the generating station through the rails and earth,
would cause considerable disturbances upon the neigh-
bouring telephone lines using grounded circuits. In
order to avoid this, a complete metallic circuit with two
trolley wires, suspended side by side about Bin. apart,
was constructed, and every effort was made to perfect
a system built upon these lines. Very little trial showed
the insurmountable difficulties, both electrical and mecha-
nical, which such an arrangement introduced. In the first
place the wires, supporting and insulating devices, etc., hdd
to be made of double the weight of a single trolley line,
and therefore required heavier span wires and larger and
more objectionable poles. Again it was found that without
making the spans of the trolley wire exceedingly short,
and therefore greatly increasing the number of poles, it
was impossible to pull the trolley wire up tight enough to
avoid contact between the positive and negative wires.
Endless short circuits and accidents to the wiring, owing to
its great weight and the impossibility of securely supporting
it without the employment of cumbersome and inadmissable
supports and insulators, soon made a return to the single
trolley wire a necessity. The remedy for the interference
with the telephones has been found m the adoption, in the
case of the latter, of a complete metallic circuit.
It has been found that a trolley wire about ^in. in
diameter gives better results than any other size. On
very many short roads, on which the number of cars
operated is small, this is large enough to transmit the
requisite amount of power without too great a loss in the
line. Smaller wires were found liable to accidents from
strains which this size can readily withstand, and a larger
wire necessiutes the use of objectionably heavy supporting
and insulating devices, so that No. 0 B and S gauge has
been adopted almost exclusively as a standard si'iie for
urban roads. This is drawn very hard in mile lengths,
and wound with the utmost care upon very heavy reels.
This careful winding of the trolley ^is^ vl ^1 \S^^ ^s^
188 TSE electrical ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 1892.
importance, owing to the fact that any looaeness cauaes
kinka in the irire, which are only with great difficulty
removed. (jr^ j^ continued.)
SOME EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATIONS OF
ALTERNATE CURRENTS*
UoBt oE the papers raad before tbU loetiCution on the aabject of
albornato electric currenU, and on apporatnA employed for
ntiliaing them, have dealt principally witD the theoretical aide of
the question, and undoubtedly have been eitremety usetul to con-
itruotOFB of alternate-cat-rent apparatus, NevertbeleBB, certain
^pa in our knowledge obtmded themselves in practice, and the
loveettgatioDB and ezperimentH which are described la the present
communication were undertaken cot so much to verify any par-
ticaUr theory as to increase our knowledge of useful facts.
For convenience of reference, these eiperimeDta are not
deecribed in chronological order, but they have been grouped
tOffether according to tho subjects which they are intended to
elocidate. Foremost among these is the toss of energy through
the beating of iron by induction where alCemate electnc currents
■re employed— a subject which engaged tho attention of Prof.
Ewing and of Dr. J. Hopkiueon six years ago. whose resaarchea
painted out the direction in which further eiperimeDts should be
made. It is well known that this loss is caused by the so-called
Foucault currents and by hysteresis. The effect of the former is
oounteracted by laminating thecoreof a magnet either by building
it up with wires of small diameter or with thin discs, according to
the direction of the lines of induction.
A short conaiderabioQ will show that the heat produced by
Foucault currents can be calculated beforehand for a core of
known construction and dimensions. Take the case of an iron wire,
1 cm. long, subjected to an induction parall^ to its axis of B Lines
per one square centimetre of its section. Let r be the radius of the
wire, and p the radiue of a ring, of the width d p, concentric with
thcr-wire. In this ring currents will be produced in the same
manner as in the secondary circuit of a transformer. The maxi-
mum induction pass tngth rough this ring is N^p^r. B. Hence the
E.U.F. generated is E ^4 » N x 10 • =4 u p' ' B W volts.
If c is the conductivity of the iron employed, the resistance of
The mean indnctioD produced by passing an alternate oarrenb
through the low-voltage circuit was measnrad b;^ the difference of
potentiiftl obtaiited in tne high-voltage oircnit whde do current was
parsing through the Utter. The temperature of the iron oore was
ascertained by meaaoring the increase in the electrical reaistanoe
of one of its wires, which had been insulated from the rest by a
cotUin covering. By kctual comparison it was found that one of
the wires near the periphery gave, within the limits of errors of
observation, the same resalta as the central wire, so that the exAob
Cition of this " test wire " has no inSuenoe on the result ; the
ting of the cotton insulation can be n^leoted, as its mass is so
very small compared with that of the iron.
Separate test« were made to determine the specific heat of the
iron, which was found to be = 0'112, ana the temperatare
coefBcient for the electrical reeistance of the teat wire, which was
equal to 0'0054. The current was kept on for a short time only,
as it was desired in the first instance to determine the rate at
which energy is converted into heat in such a transformer, and the
lise in temperature after keeping the current on for i seconds can
bs calculated from the formala —
t, = 5l^3.
■0064. Ro
Ro — electrical resistance before starting thecurrent ; R| = elec-
trical resistance after keeping the current on for s seconds.
During the time that the current passes, the test wire will lose
a certain amount of heat by radiation and convection, although it
is surrounded by all the other iron wires, which are heated in a
similar manner. This km can, however, easily be allowed for by -
Ctting a " cooling curve " after the passage of the current has
D stopped, with times as abscissieand temperatures as ordinatee.
In this way the rise of temperature of the iron core per second
was observed with an alternate curjent of 100 complete periods per
ength s
IS to prodnce a different induction
e nngis
_dp
consequently the waste of energy ii
ttiia ring, expreesed in watts, i
W =
. B'.
. 10-"
From this formula a cable has been calculated to indicate the
waste of energy by Foucault currents in 1 cwb. of iron of the
ODnductivity e = 0'102 k 10*, when an alternate current of the
frequency n = 100 complete periods per second was employed.
Diameter of Wire.
Induction. ^mm. 1 mm. 2 mm. 3 mm.
B Watts. Watts. Watte. Watts.
1,000 08 3-3 13-3 289
2,000 a-3 13-3 53-3 119-9
3.000 7-4 29-» 119-9 289-8
4,000 13-4 63-3 213-3 479-8
6,000 20-8 83-3 333'2 7497
6,000 29-9 119-9 479-8 1,0794
In order to determine the total loss of energy caused by the
heating of the iron, experiments were made with a specially
constructed " cable transformer."
This mode of constructing transformers has been foreshadowed
bjr Dr. Werner von Siemens, who propoeed in bis patent No, 42
at 1886 to surround the primary and secondary circuits of a trans-
former with iron wire, but his experiments gave no satisfactory
lalioiir in putting it togeUier being entirely _
A special ma(£ine has been designed and erected for completing
each transformers in one operation, after the iron core has twen
prepared on an ordinary rope-stranding machine. Besides offering
these facilities for manufacture, the peculiar shape of the cable
transformer lends itself to a variety of useful applications. For
Instance, at the Crystal Palace Exhibition one of these trans-
formers connects an altomate-corrent machine tea hi^lbvoltage
transformer some distance away, raising the potential of the
current at the same time from 80 volts to 2,600 volte. The trans-
former used for the experiments has a core of 900 soft iron wires,
each 1 mm. in diameter by 6 metres long, twisted up in the form
B.
Watts.
Watts.
2.000 ....
consequently the induction in the
ad, with the exception of a alight drop at either end.
m^netic
second, varying ir
for each observation.
Considering that the loss of energy caased by the heating of
the iron is proportionate to its mass, to its speeifio heat, and to its
rise of temperature per second, it was possible to plot a curve in
which the maximum number of C.G.S. lines per square centimetre
are the abscisse, and the losses of energy are represented as ordinatea
calculated for the mass of 1 cwt. of soft iron wires 1 mm. in
diameter.
It should be added that the abscissie of curve 2, Diagram I.,
which embodies the results obtained, have been calculated fram
the measured volts, instead of from the calculated mean volte,
which in sinoidal waves are = 0-9 measured volts. This was done
as curve 2 was to be used for designing transformers where the
measured volts only are used for calculation.
As this curve gives the lossea caused by hysteresis attd bj
Foucault currents, while the formula given above enables oe to
calculate the losses caused by the Foucault currents alone, we can
determioe the loss by hysteresis alone by a simple subtraction. All
these results, it must be remembered, refer to 1 cwt. of soft iron,
subdivided into wires of 1 mm, diameter, on which an alternate
current is acting of a frequency of 100 complete period* per second,
the type of apparatus used being a cable transformer. The
following table shows the results :
Losses of energy.
Induction. Curve 2. Foucault currents. Hyslereeie.
Watte.
39-9
82-9
128-1
177-9
226-2
270-2
The losses caused b^ hysteresis are Independent of the dimen-
sions of the iron. This table enables us, therefore, together with
the formula for the tosses caused by Foucault currente, to pre-
determine the mte of the loss of energy in iron wire of any weight
or dimensions when acted upon by an alternate current tn a
frequency equal to 100 complete periods per second. Similar
experiments were made with alternate currents of a frequency of
66-6 complete period per second, and of a frequency of 133-3 com-
plete periods per second, and the curves embodying the reenlte
are also shown on Diagram I.
It, should be obaervod that the currente of 66-6 and of 100
complete periods were obtained from the same alternate-current
machine (type W]), which has a high self induction in the arma-
ture, and of which it has been ascertained experimentally that tbe
waves of its current are sinoidal. The currents of 133 complete
periods per second were produced by another type of machine
(Wii) with a low self- induction and a very narrow field.
On Diagram II. the losses by hysteresis alone have been shown,
derived from the curves of Ui^ram I, by deducting the loses*
caused by Foucault currents according to ralculation. By way of
comparison. Prof. Ewing's curve of losses caused by static
hysteresis has tieen added. In this table the results obtuned
with alternate currents of 133-3 complete periods ptn- second have
been left out of consideration, on account of their being made with
a different machine, as just explained.
The next point to be investigated is tbe change which an
alteration of the frequency of the current will involve in tbe cf ~~
of a transformer designed for a given voltage in if- ''
circuit. Ifitisbomein -•-■' •'•-' "•*- — "-— -
constant factors, depend
frequency, and N the mai
follows at onoe that in order
lower frequency, the nnmber of lines of induction has to be
inoNaaad in proportion, and vie* MrstL In otbar wonla, if the
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 18&2. 18&
Bame E.M.F. is to be produced in the secondary circuit of a given
transfoTiner, the product n N must be constant. This result can
at once be applied to the formula, which gives the losses of energy
caused by Foucault currents—
W»2cirn«B«r*10 ";
and as K =r^ . T . B, the formula can be expressed —
W=?^(nN)«10-W;
or, in other words, these losses are constant for the same trans-
former, whatever the frequency may be, as long as the E.M.F. of
the secondary circuit remains the same.
A comparison of the curves for a frequency of 66'7 and of 100
complete periods per second on Diagram I. shows that the losses
of energy for the same induction are practically proportional to the
frequencies. The same curves show that this loss increases more
rapidly than the number of lines of induction.
From this consideration, it follows that a transformer which has
been designed to produce a certain E.M.F. in its secondary circuit
with a given frequency cannot produce the same E.M.F. with a
lower frequency without overheating, while it remains cooler when
it is worked with a higher frequency. In other words, trans-
formers built for low frequency require much material.
An experiment was made to ascertain the final temperatures of
a 50-h.p. transformer worked with different frequencies, and after
10 hours' working the maximum temperature was found to be —for
a frequency of 100 complete periods per second, 53deg. C. in the
core, and 46deg. C. on the outside ; for a frequency of 66 complete
periods per second, 69deg. C. in the core, and 57deg. C. on the
outside— a result which appears to bear out the above consideration.
What frequency is most advantageous can, however, not be
settled by taking into account nothmg but the heating of the
transformers : it is quite evident that the construction of suitable
generating apparatus plays as important a part ; and the problem
resolves itself into the commercial one, which combination of
apparatus can be constructed most cheaply ?
The question, what induction should be settled upon in designing
a transformer, is rather a complex one, and it can only be solvea
by taking into consideration : 1st. The amount of material, iron
and copper. 2od. The drop of potential difference in the secondary
circuit from no load to full load. 3rd. The efficiency of the
apparatus. 4th. The heating of the apparatus.
in order to facilitate the investigations a series of transformers
is compared which all have the same length of iron core, and the
same number of turns of copper wire of the same diameter.
It is assumed that one of these transformers is designed for
an induction B = 5,000, and that its output is such that the
weights of the iron and of the copper used in its construction
are equal to each other and to 1 cwt.; this may be called the
normal transformer. If, now, another transformer of the same
series, but with a lower induction, is to produce the same voltage,
the section of the iron has to be increased proportionately : tor
instance, in the case of B = 2,500 it has to be doubled. The
weight of the iron employed varies, in fact, inversely as the induc-
tion, and their relation can be represented by a rectangular hyper-
bola (curve 7). As we have assumed that the thickness of the
copper wire and the number of its turns are to be the same in all
these transformers, the weight of the copper will vary directly
with the length of wire wound on the iron core, and this can be
determined if the relationship between the length of periphery and
the section of the iron core is known.
In the case of the sections of the cores being circles, or squares,
or rectangles, with the same ratio between their length and width,
the length of periphery varies as the square root of the section.
As transformers are generally designed with cores of this kind, it
may be accepted that the periphery of the iron core, and, conse-
quently, the weight of copper to be employed, varies as the square
root of the section of the iron core.
The weight of copper in the series of transformers under contem-
plation can therefore be represented by a curve (8), the ordinates
of which are the square root of the ordmates of the curve giving
the weight of iron for the corresponding inductions. From these
two curves it appears that the weight of the iron increases very
rapidly with aecreasing induction, while the weight of copper
increases at a slower rate.
{To he coniinued.)
ELECTRICITY APPLIED TO MINING— THEORY AND
PRACTICE.
At the meeting, last week, of the North of England Institute of
Mininff and Mechanical Engineers, held in Newcastle, Mr. D.
Selby Bi^e read a paper on eleotricid engineering as applied to
ooal minmff, with an account of the instaUation recently effected
at one of the Earl of Durham's collieries.
Mr. Bigg«, in the course of an exhaustive address, said the
question of power transmission by means of electricity is by no
means a new or untried one, and though, perhaps, little is known
of the details as yet by the mining world in general, results have
been obtained in actual practice which merit serious attention.
Electricity has now been applied, and with great success, in mining
work for haulage, pumping, drilling, ooal-cuttinff, and other
minor usee, and as in the case of electric lighting, electric power
may now fairly be said to have passed out of its experi-
mentdl etage, and to have become an accomplished fact. It
it obMy M a means for trmnsmitting pow«r to great distanoee
with small loss along the line that electricity will be found to
predominate over any other known form of power transmission,
and as distance is usually a most important factor in mining opera-
tions underground, electricity in a large number of cases will be
found to adapt itself admirably to the work required to be
done. The advantages claimed may be tabulated as follows:
1. A very large increase in working efficiency over any other
known form of power transmission. 2. Considerable reduc-
tion in capital expenditure, when compared with other systems,
a reduction whicn becomes more and more apparent as the
distance for the power to be transmitted increases. 3. In-
creased facility in running the cables when compared with
the laying of air or hydraulic mains. 4. Very small loss in the
cables through resistance or leakage to earth when compared with
the waste on a compressed air system. 5. Smallness in size of
the machinery, thus proving itself to be of a portable nature and
easily manipulated. 6. Absence of heat from the machinery
underground. 7. Great simplicity in working. 8. Small cost of
maintenance. 9. Finally, the ease and speed with which the
whole plant can be erected and eet to work. The principal objec-
tions raised against the employment of electric power are the
following : 1. Danger arising from sparking at the motor brushes
and main switoh underground. 2. The idea that electrical
machinery ia of too delicate a nature for use in mines. 3. Risk of
fire from breaking of the main cables by falls of stone, derailed
tubs, or other causes. Having dealt with the three objections raised
the author proceeded to consider the general question of electric
power by electricity. When power is transmitted from one place
to another by means of a fluid, such as steam, air, or water, through
pipes, the difficulty of predetermining the exact loss of power from
friction in these pipes is very great ; in fact it varies so much
under different circumstences that the author believed that
exact determination may be said to be impossible. So, also,
the loss of power in the motors driven by fluids is equally
undeterminable with any degree of accuracy, on account of
the variations in efficiency caused by slight alterations in load
or speed, or by leakage through the valves or packings. These
difficulties in calculation do not present themselves with
electrical transmission of power. The loss of power in the cables
depends solely on the electrical resistence, which is a practically
constant quantity, and the current passing through tne cables,
which can be estimated with great accuracy. Nor is the loss of
power in the motors more difficult to estimate : first, with a given
motor the losses can be calculated with almost any degree
of accuracy, from its known resistance and electrical or mag-
netic qualities; and, secondly, since the experimentel deter-
mination of the efficiency of dynamos and motors is so readily
carried out, a very great number of actual efficiency testa
have been taken, from which the efficiency of a given size
of machine of any particular type or construction can be
easily foretold. The calculation, therefore, of the power
wasted in transmitting power by means of electricity is extremely
simple, and the efficiencies of a plant can be readily foretold, and
the results to be obtained guaranteed with perfect confidence. The
author thought that it might be of interest if he took two typical
cases, and presented the resulta of the calculations in such a way
that the members of the institute could compare them with those
obtained in practice by any other methods. Having done this, he
said that an inspection of the two tables which he gave would
prove to the members with what ease and at what a compara-
tively small cost power can be transmitted to considerable
distances, and he, therefore, desired to draw attention to one or
two of the conclusions which are arrived at from this fact. First,
where there are two or more collieries under the same manage-
ment within a comparatively short distance of one another at
which power is required, he would urge the desirability of esteb-
lishing one central station where plant would be installed of suffi-
cient power to serve the several collieries. The advantages of this
plan are clear, (a) Inasmuch as all the machinery will not be
working to its full capacity at each of the collieries simul-
taneously, the actual power at the one central station will be less
than the sum of the powers which would have to be installed at each
separate position, and in addition to this the plant would be cheaper,
because the price of machinery does not vary directly as ita out-
put. (&) The cost of maintenance of a few large dynamos and
engines will be less than that of a greater number of small onee.
(c) Greater efficiency is obtained by running the machinery n^ore
nearly at its full load, the percentile variations of power required
being smaller, when a large number of motors are taking power
from the one plant, {d) The cost of attendance on the generating
plant will be enormously reduced, the same number of men being
able to attend the one central station as would attend to each of
the separate planto. The great saving in all these directions had
been fully proved by actuafpractice in the large central stations
supplying ught and power in London and other large towns.
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
NEWCASTLE AND DISTRICT ELECTRIC LIGHTING
COMPANY.
The fifth annual meeting of this Company was held on Mr |. >
at the offices of Messrs. Ceadbitter and Harvey, Wep*^
Newcastle-on-Tyne. Mr. John D. Milburn, chairm'* 15 310 ig 6
presided. 4! 142 8 4
The report and accounte wore presented as fo^' ^
are happy to state that the prospecta ol *' ^^!4^3^ ^ ^
l&O THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 189^.
satisfactory. The installations connected to the mains daring the
year are equal to 4,000 16-c.p. lamps, bringing the total up to
about 11,000, and 206,017 units of electrical energy have been
supplied. The Company maintains amicable relations with its
consumers, and trusts the consumption may ere long increase to a
sufficient extent to enable the Directors to recommend a reduction
in the price of current. The gross earningrs during the year
amount to £1,860. 15s., and after makmg provision for deprecia-
tion account and reserve fund, and writing off £200 from formation
expenses, your Directors are able to recommend a dividend at the
rate of 2^ per cent, for the half-year ending December 31, which,
together with the interim dividend paid in July last, makes the
dividend 5 per cent, for the year. Colonel W. M. Angus and Mr.
John B. Simpson retire by rotation, but are eligible, and offer
themselves for re-election. The auditors, Messrs. Strachan, Hill,
and Co. , also offer themselves for re-election.
Balangb-shkkt, 31st December, 1891.
Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d.
Capital— 5,000 shares at £10 each.. 50,000 0 0
2,113 shares, £8 called up 16,904 0 0
427 „ £4 1,708 0 0
18,612 0 0
Add calls paid in advance 1,316 0 0
19.928 0 0
Less calls unpaid 132 0 0
19,796 0 0
Creditors 2,622 0 3
Loans and interest 5,257 11 1
Directors' fees, unpaid 105 0 0
Bankers 671 2 3
8,655 13 7
Reserve fund 300 0 0
Profit and loss account, balance
fromlastyear 53 14 10
Profit for year ending 31st Dec.,
1891 805 3 4
858 18 2
interim dividend 385 18 8
472 19 6
Dr.
Buildings and plant, pipes and
cables (including cost of laying),
meters, transformers, electrical
instruments, etc., as per last
balance-sheet
Expended since
Less depreciation written off.
£29,224 13 1
s. d. £ s. d.
17,036 8 11
8,874 8 5
25,910 17 4
400 0 0
Office furniture
Stock of stores, etc
Formation expenses, as per last
balance-sheet
Expended since
Lees amount written off
25,510 17 4
136 14 5
93 0 4
1,275 0 11
286 3 6
1,561 4 5
200 0 0
Debtors (less reserve for discounts, £200j
Hodgkin and Co., deposit
1,361 4 5
2,022 16 7
100 0 0
£29,224 13 1
Profit and Loss Acxx)unt foe Year ending Dec. 31, 1891.
«,^- , £ s. d.
Wa^es, salaries, rent, rates, taxes, and Directors' fees 1,323 6 6
Stationery and office expenses 106 5 6
Stores, fuel, water, etc 1,413 g 5
Repairs and renewals 93 2 1
Balance 1,860 15 0
£4,796 18 6
£ s. d.
Interest 255 11 8
Proportion of formation ex penses written off 200 0 0
Depreciation written off 400 0 0
Transfer to reserve fund 200 0 0
Balance carried to balance-sheet 805 3 4
£1,860 15 0
Cr« £ s. d.
Electric enei^ supplied, less discounts 4,557 14 1
Meter and transformer rent 239 4 5
volta^^
very smau
field, and con^
distributed, witu-
* Paper read betu.
J^ebroMiyr JJ, JS6SL
£4,796 18 6
£ s. d.
I,t60 15 0
£1,86« 16 0
The Chairman said : In moving the adoption of the Direoton'
report, I ask permission to say a few words concerning the positioii
and progress of our Company. I have to congratulate the Com-
pany upon the steady progress which has been made since its com-
mencement. It is true we are as yet but a Liliputian enterprise*
as compared with the growth of the eas company, but we have
risen above the Grround, and have amcue reason to believe that we
shall prosper. Our receipts during tne financial year ending 31st
December last have amounted to £4,796. 18s. 6d., as against nearly
£220,000 of receipts by the gas company. We have no war witn
the gas companv. The first time I had the honour of addressing
you, I, on behalf of your Directors, intimated that the Kewoastle
and District Electric Lighting Company did not intend to enter
into any insane competition with gas. We wished to supply an
artistic, healthy, and exhilarating lieht at a higher price tluui gas.
We have hitherto steadily pursu^ this policy with a fair share of
prosperity for ourselves, and with the result that instead of doing
harm to the gas company, its business has actually increased, and it
is even now seeking a large amount of fresh capitsl to allow of exten-
sions. We have, therefore, actually exhilaratea the gas company, for
the lighting of the city, whether by gas or by electricity, was
never before so efficiently and so well done as at present. There
is yet long life in the gas company, and when artificial lighting
shall no longer be its strong point, it will have many other sources
of revenue. In electricity, however, we represent the leadine
energy of this age, and your Directors will not be content untu
our Company erows and expands, until it is doing a fair share of
the lighting of this city. Not only should we occupy ourselves
with the production of energy for lighting purposes, but we should
cultivate its use for motive power. I do not think we shall have
many years to wait before tramways are principally worked by
electricity. I am convinced that, as soon as we shall be able
to show the directors of our local tramways any advantage
in the use of electricity — especially on such norse-killing
g laces as Westgate-hill — they will not be slow to adopt it.
Ilectric motors will also be found useful for the propulsion
of machinery in its manifold uses, and I think something more
might be done by us to encourage the adoption of electrical
motors. The use of our plant, or a lar^^ proportion thereof,
during the daytime woula considerably reduce our cost of
production, and render remunerative to the Company the day
hours as well as the night hours, upon which we have chiefly to
depend for our revenue. Your Directors are fully alive to the
interests of the public, and so soon as the business of the Company
shall have attained sufficient volume, and the cost of production
be reduced, they will recommend a reduction in price, and so
brine the use of electricity into still greater popularity. No one
who nas once used the electric light has any inclination to fgo back
to gas lighting. It would be more difficult to pervert a good
Mahomedan than to wean back again a user of the electric
light to gas, notwithstanding the higher price. Its advantages,
comfort, healthiness, and cleanliness, are fully recognised
and appreciated. If to these merits, however, comparative
cheapness can be added, the two electric lighting companies of the
city would very speedily open up ''fresh woods and pastures
new. " That there is a great future before us, your Directors would
fain hope. Coming to the results of the recent year's work, the
shareholders may be interested to know that during the past year
lamps equal to about 4,000 16-c.p. lights were connected to the
Company's mains, and durinsr the same time, 15,610 yards of cable
have been laid, and 2,430 yards of main and branch piping. The
6in. main pipe which at the commencement of the Company's
operations was laid in Fourth Banks, is now filled up with cable,
and in view of the demands which are being being received for
supply of current, it has been found necessary to commence lajring
another 6in. main.
Hr. J. B. Holliday seconded the adoption of the report.
The report was adopted, and the dividend declared.
The retirin? Directors and the Auditors were re-elected.
A vote of thanks to the Chairman terminated the meeting.
COMPANIES' REPORTS.
INDIA BUBBER, OUTTA PERCHA, AND TELEGRAPH
WORKS COMPANY.
Directors : S. Wm. Silver, Esq., chairman ; Neil Bannatyne,
Esq. ; Abraham Scott, Esq. ; Matthew Gray, Esq., managing
director ; Robert Henderson, Esq. ; the Hon. Henry Marsham ;
A. Weston Jarvis, Esq., M.P.
Report of the Directors for the year ending December 31, 1891,
to be presented at the twenty-eighth ordinary general meeting of
the shareholders, to be held at the Cannon -street Hotel, on
Tuesday, February 23, iX 12 noon.
The annexed accounts show the net profit for the past year to
be £79,102. 8s. Adding £39,970. 17s. lOd. brought forward, and
deducting £20,800 interim dividend paid in July, there remains a
disposable balance of £98,273. 5s. lOd. The Directors have added
£25,000 of this balance to the reserve fund (raising it to £325,000),
and recommend the distribution of a dividend of 10s. and a bonus
of 5s. per share, free of income tax, amounting to £31,200. making,
with the interim dividend, a total payment for the year of 12^ per
cent., and leaving £42,073. 5s. lOd. to be carried forward. 'The
increase in the sales of the Company's general manufactures oon-
tinues. The cable department has been fairly well employed.
More than 1,600 miles of cable have now been manofactared for
the South Amerioan Cable Company ; and it is ezptoted thab tlie
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 1892. 191
whole letifirih contracted for will be made and laid by Midsummer.
The efficiency of the works and machinery has been folly main-
tained. Mr. Scott and Mr. Jarvis, the directors retiring by
rotation, offer themselves for re-election. Mr. Weise is re-elig^ble
as auditor.
Dr. Balanci-sheet, 31st December, 1891. £ s d.
Amount of authorised share capital 812,000 0 0
Share capital— amount subscribed and paid on
authonsedissueof 41,600 shares of £10 each... 416,000 0 0
Mortgage debentures 200,000 0 0
Reeerrefund 326,000 0 0
Steamers' maintenance fund 10,000 0 0
DebU and loans owing by the Company 83,329 13 8
Bills payable 16,608 17 0
Unclaimed dividends 7 0 0
Proposed dividend, 5 per cent., and bonus of 2^
percent 31,200 0 0
Amount carried forward to 1892, as below 42,073 6 10
£1,124,218 16 6
Cr. £ B. d.
Freehold and leasehold premises (Silvertown,
Persan, London, and Liverpool), machinery,
and steamships 483,546 2 11
Debts owing to the Company 82,487 0 10
Cash with bankers and in hand 22,477 8 9
Bills receivable 4,432 5 4
Stock-in*trade, including cable and expenditure
onaocountof contracts 347,857 14 7
Debentures and shares in other companies 25,290 10 0
Cash, stock, etc., at Persan and other agencies 158,127 14 1
£1,124,218 16 6
Profit and Loss Account, Year ending Dec 31, 1891.
Salanee, interest, rent, rates and taxes, repairs,
and general expenses 64,008 7 2
Baddebts 902 3 2
Inoometax 1,326 12 0
Depreciation written off buildings and machinery... 23,235 7 10
Directors' remuneration (minimum) 2,000 0 0
Balance : Profit for the year, carried down 82,102 8 0
£173,574 18 2
Addition to reserve fund 25,000 0 0
Interim dividend of 5 per cent., paid
in July £20,800 0 0
Proposed dividend of 5 per cent 20,800 0 0
Proposed bonus of 2^ per cent 10,400 0 0
52,000 0 0
Balance to be carried forward to 1892 42,073 5 10
£119,073 5 10
Cr. £ 8. d.
Gross profit, including interest on securities, and
after charging commission and depreciation of
steamships 173,674 18 2
£173,574 18 2
Balance brought down £82,102 8 0
Less additional remuneration due
to Directors after payment of
10 per cent, to shareholders ... 3,000 0 0
79.102 8 0
Amount brought forward from 1890 39,970 17 10
£119.073 5 10
WESTMINSTER ELECTRIC SUPPLY CORPORATION.
Directors: The Right Hon. Lord Suffield, K.C.B., Edmund
Boulnois, Esq., MP., W. Hayes Fisher, Esq., M.P., Sir Douglas
Galton, R.C.B., F.R S., M.In8t.E.E., J. Browne Martin, Esq..
James Heslop Powell, Esq., Roger W. Wallace, Esq. General
manager : Captain Edmund I. Bax. Engineer-in -charge : Prof.
Alex. B. W. Kennedy, F.R.S., M.Io8t.C.E. Secretary: Frank
lago, Esq.
Report of the Directors to be presented to the shareholders at
the ordinanr general meeting to be held at the Westminster Palace
Hotel, S.W., on Wednesday, the 24th inst., at 11 a.m.
In submitting their report and accounts for the year 1891 the
Board of Directors are pleased bo state that the business of the
Corporation ia making satisfactory progress, for although two of the
stations were not in work until the end of March, and one is still
in the builder's hands, the accounts of the past year show a con-
siderable profit upon the working, after making provision for bad and
doubtful aebts, allowing a fair amount for depreciation, and writing
off a proportion of the preliminary expenses and suspense account.
In their report last year, the Board stated that current was being
supplied to the equivalent of about 12,000 lamps of 8 c.p. At the
preaent time current is being supplied to 67.500 lamps of 8 c.p.,
while applications are sigaed for a further 5,083 lamps of 8 o. p.
^le application to Parliament for permission to supply the
northern district of Westminster was successful, the Royal assent
to the Bill having been given on July 3, 1891. Mains have now
Imn laid in all the sdiednled streeta thnmghoat the area of
suppljTi AS also in every other street where the expenditure has
been justified by the demand for current, both in the original and
additional order. The total length of roadway along which maina
have been laid up to the present date is about 31 miles. Thi«
includes a total of about 123 miles of ways, along which 89 miles
of copper have been drawn. Your Directors have every reason to
believe that the Corporation's supply, which has so successfully
been given to the Houses of Parliament, will be extended
to other Government offices at no very distant date. Two
of the stations of the Corporation which had not been
finished at the date of the last general meeting (the Mayiair
station in Davies-street and the Belgravia station in Eccleston-
place) commenced to supply current in March last, and, together
with the Westminster station in MiUbank-street, have since been
constantly at work. The reports from consumers and others as to
the quality of the light supplied have been very gratifying, and
the increase in the number of applications for current reoeivMl may
no doubt be ascribed to this fact. As shown in the accompanying
accounts the net revenue of the Corporation for the past year is
£3,160. 4s. 3d., and this sum the Board consider should be carried
forward. The balance of the authorised share capital— viz. , £85,235 in
17,047 shares of £5 each— was, in accordance with the resolution of
the shareholders at the general meeting in February last, issued
at par, and was duly subscribed for ; many of the original share-
holders increased their holdings, and a number of the consumers
on the Corporation's circuits invested in the shares. The whole of
the authorised capital has now been subscribed and paid up in full,
and it is very satisfactory to the Board to be able to state that there
is not a single unpaid call. The Directors have not made any public
issue of the debenture capital, for which powers are given m the
articles of association, but have allotted £29,400 in 5 per cent,
mortgage debentures to applicants, many of whom had applied for
ordinary shares of the Corporation. The auditors, Messrs. Cooper
Brothers and Co., retire, and, being eligible, offer themselves for
re-election.
Dr. General Balance-sheet, Dec. 31, 1891. £ s.
Capital account as per account No. 3 329,400 0
Sundry creditors 15,322 3
Depreciation account. No. 6 1,000 0
Sinking fund on buildings and leases, No. 7 400 0
Net revenue account. No. 5
Cr.
3,159 14
d.
0
0
0
0
3
Capital account, as per account No. 3
Stores on hand
Sundrv debtors for current supplied £9,773 19 10
Other 'debtors 851 5 8
£349,281
£
297,640
99
Deposits with vestries, etc
Cash on loan against securities
Cash at bankers
Preliminary expenses and suspense
account (being expenditure ap-
plicable to future business £10,380 17 7
Less amount written off for year 1891 1,000 0 0
10,625
184
30,000
1,350
17 :
s. d.
17 9
4 4
5 6
14 10
0 0
17 3
9,380 17 7
£ 8. d.
£349,281 17 3
Revenue Acxx>unt vor Year enddvo Deo. 31, 1891.
A. — To Ceneration and Distribution of Electricity.
Dr. £ s. d.
Coals, carriage, and unloading, etc. 3,581 10 0
Oil, waste, water and engine-room
stores 984 19 9
Proportion of salaries of engineers
and officers 1,035 14 9
Wages and gratuities at generating
stations 2,763 6 6
Repairs and maintenance : Buildings,
£49. 14s. 3d.; plant, £298. 2s. 8d.. 347 16 11
B. — To Rents, Rates, and Taxes.
,230 3
337 7 11
Rents payable 1,230 3 4
Rates ana taxes
C. — To Management Expenses.
Directors' remuneration 800 0 0
Salaries of manager, chief engineer,
secretary, clerks etc 1,962 16 8
Stationery and printing 249 11 10
General establisnment charges 164 12 1
Auditors of Company and accoun-
tants'charges 68 19 10
8,71 7 11
1,567 11
3,246 0 6
D. — To Law and Parliamentary Expenses.
Lawexpenses 294 IS 2
E. — To Depreciation.
Sinking fund on building and leases 400 0 0
Depreciation on plant and machinery,
etc 1,000 0 0
— 1,400 0 0
Insurance
F.— To Special Charges.
91 6 9
Total expenditure 16,312 19 6
Balance to net revenue account No. 6 4,142 8 4
^>!4|«^ A ^
192 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 19, 1892.
Cr. £ 8. d. £ 8. d.
Sale of current by meter, eto 18,131 5 0
Sale under contracts 981 11 8
19,112 16 8
Rental of meters on consumers' premises 288 18 8
Transferfees 53 12 6
)
£19.455 7 10
BUSINESS NOTES.
West India and Panama Telegraph ComiNuiy. — The receipts
for the half-month ended Feb 15 were £2,655, against £3,236.
Warrants for Interest at the rate of 6 per cent, per annum on
the preference shares of the Western Counties ana South Wales
Telephone Company, Limited, for the half-year ended December
Slst last, have been posted.
City and Sontli London Railway. — The receipts for the week
ending 14th February were £881, against £728 for the corre-
sponding period of last year, showing an increase of £153. As
compare with the week ending February 7th, last week's receipts
show an increase of £57.
BImilngham Xlootrie Supply Company. —We notice that 5,625
shares of £5 each in this Company, being the balance unissued,
are now being offered in Birmingham at par. Five shillings is to
be paid on application and 15s. on allotment. Any subsequent
calls are not to be for more than £1 per share at three months'
notice, and at intervals of not less than three months. Existing
shareholders will have priority of allotment.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1892.
2365.
2393.
2396.
2397.
2401.
2417.
2438.
2448.
2486.
2488.
2497.
2540.
2541.
2544.
8588.
2618.
2621.
2646.
2652.
2658.
February 8.
Improvements In eleotrlcal oommnnloatlng apparatus
for mining and other works. Alexander Ferrie Mabon,
87, St. Vincent-street, Glasgow.
Improved method of and appllanees for using eleotrlolty
asamedldnal agent. William Qrigg, 11, Furnival-street,
Holbom, London.
An Improved microphone or transmitter. John Henry
Kindle, 9, Warwick -court, Gray's Inn, London.
■leotrlo Are alarm. Ernest Dyer Wise, 69, Lever-street,
Goswell-road, London.
Improvements In Inoandesoent lamps. Perrin Grant,
Monument-chambers, King William-street, London.
Apparatus to gather and store eleotrlolty or energy from
water, the earth, or from the atmosphere. Richard
Joeeph Crowley, Queenstown, Cork, Ireland.
February 9.
Improvements In relays for suhmarlne telegraphy.
Gaspare Sacco, 7> Martin's- lane. Cannon-street, London.
Improvements In and oonneoted with the arrangement
and operation of relays In telographlo systems.
William Frederick Wentz, 70, Market-street, Manchester.
(Complete specification. )
Improved eomposltlon of matter suitable for use In the
manuflaeture of journal bearings packings, projeotlle
rings, commutator brushes, and various other articles
whore surfkoes come Into frlctlonal contact, and for
conductors of electricity. Philip Henry Holmes, 47,
Lincoln's-inn-fields, London. (Complete specification.)
■lectrlc lighting system. Sylvanus Lander Trippe, .33,
Chancery-lane, London. (Complete specification.)
Improvements In magneto-electric machines. John Hunt,
55, Chancery -lane, London. (Complete specification.)
Improvements In the arrangements of conductors for
electric traction. John Edward Waller, 47, Lincoln's-inn-
fields, London.
Apparatus for and method of recording the time during
which telephones, phonographs, and other Instruments
or machines are In use or at work. Bernhard Heinrich
Carl Bogler, High Holbom, London. (Karl Strecker,
Germany. )
Improvements In electrical motors. Alfred Julius Boult,
323, High Holbom, London. (William Joseph Still,
Canada.) (Complete specification.)
Febbuart 10.
Improvements In telephonic switching apparatus. Emest
Frank Furtado and Charles Benjamin Oakley, 48, St. Paul's-
road, Camden Town, London.
Improvements In deotromotors. Paul Bary, 28, South-
ampton-buildings, London.
An Improved telephone combination. Sir Charles Stewart
Forbes, Bart., 21, Finsbury-pavement, London.
February 11.
Improvements In telephonic transmitters. Luis Larranaga,
36, Chancery-lane, London.
Improved regulator for voltaic are lamps. Frederic
Kloetermann, 3, Tokenhouse-buildings, London.
Improvements ocnnected with eleotrlcally operated
eoin4t—A apparatus. Herbert Edwin Langley, 166,
J7eet-0ime^ London,
2727
2733.
2690. Improvements In eieetrle arc lamps. Henry Tipping,
55, Chancery-lane, London.
2722. Improvements In electric switches. Alfred Lyster Shepard,
45, Southampton-buildings, London.
2724. Improvements In electro-therapsiitleal apparatus. Armin
Grimm, 45, Southampton-buildings, London. (Complete
specification.)
Improvements In telephone receivers. Oliver Imray,
28, Southampton-buildings, London. (Ferdinand Gross,
Cauada. )
Improvements In and relating to the driving and eoa^
trolling of riveting, shearing, pnn<dilng, and other
machines by electricity. Albert Piat, 46, Lincoln's-inn-
fields, London.
February 12.
2743. The application of electricity to a seJentlflc puiSle.
Algernon Sidney Field, Aberdeen Lodge, Worple-road,
Wimbledon.
2744. Improvements In telephonic Instruments. Berthold
Hoffman, 70, Market-street, Manchester. (Complete
specification )
2748. Electro-heliograph suitable for Interastral communica-
tion. Richard Joseph Crowley, Queenstown, co. Cork,
Ireland.
Improvements In or relating to electrical signal appa-
ratus for Indicating the position of railway swltohes cr
points. William Phillips Thompson, 6, Lord-street, Liver-
pool. (Paul Schwenke, Germany.) (Complete specification.)
Improvements In osonlslng or electrifying atmospheric
air or other gases. Richard Arthur Prior Taunton, 11
Furnival-street, Holborn. London.
Improvements in or relating to sockets and switches
for Inoandesoent lamps. John Clayton Mewbum, 55,
Chancery-lane, London. (David H. Piflnird, United- States.)
Improvements In inoandesoent electric lamps. John
Clayton Mewbum, 55, Chancery-luie, London. (David H.
Piffard, United States.
An Improved time-registering device for electric cur-
rents. Walter Cobb, jun., and William D. Wilder, 55,
Chancery-lane, London.
February 13.
Improvements In apparatus for the driving of chrono*
metric balanees and pendulums for electrlolty meters.
Joseph Oultou, and Joseph Edmondson, Bank-chambers,
Waterhouse-street, Halifax.
Improvements in and relating to electrical devices for
operating railway points. William Phillips Thompson,
6, Lord-street, Liverpool. (Emile Klatte, Germany.)
2762.
2775.
2784.
2785.
2791.
2831.
2849.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1890.
206ol. Klectrlcal transformers. Mance. 6d.
1891.
1049 Dynamo-electric machines. De Ferranti. 8d.
1051. Klectrlcal transformers. De Ferranti. lid.
1051a. Testing electrical transformers, etc. De Feiranti. 8d.
4689. Kleotrtc switches. Challis. 8d.
4988 Type-printing telegraphic Instrument. Thompson. 8d.
5131. Appljrlng electricity for therapeutic, etc., purposes.
Lawrence. 8d.
5.^1. Klectrlcal transformers. Poleschko. 8d.
5406. Telegraph pole attachments. Jobson. 8d.
5 485. Telephonic communication. Massin. 8d.
6232. BUcrophones for telephonic circuits. Gwosdeff and Bung^.
8d.
12824. Slectrto lighting. Zaiini. 6d.
13705. Coupling electrle wires. Shiels. 6d.
20367. Klectric wire couplings. Shiels. 8d.
20933. KlectrlcaUy-propeUed hoso-carts. Dewey. 8d.
21476. Electric meters. Waterhouse. 8d.
21963. Blectrlc railway systems. Dewey. 8d.
22181. Pads for electrtc cells. Rogers 8d.
22473. Slectrloal heating apparatus. Drevs. 6d.
COVPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Brush Co ,
— Pref.
India Rubber, Gutta Percha k Telegraph Co.
House-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Electric Construction
Westminster Electric
Liyer|x>ol Electric Supply
{
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P.ld.
Wadnee
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8*
2i
10
m
5
6
—
H
5
H
8i
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10
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8
2*
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 26, 1892.
193
NOTES.
WarflKW is to have an electric light station.
Llajtdodao will shortly want a new gaabolder. Why
bot a dynamo-room 1
Mansfield. — The price for public ^s lamps is nearly
£4 a year in Mansfield.
Zieeds.— The Board of Trade have approved of the
extension of the Leeds electric lighting order until April
3rd, 1892.
Depatation from the City. — A section of the Com-
missionerB of Sewers will visit the Crystal Palace Exhibi-
tion on Tuesday.
Liuidr iBland. — Another wreck has been totally lost at
Lundy, to a large extent from want of telegraphic com-
munication to Lhe mainland.
Dundee is to have a new post office. All new large
poet offices are now lighted electrically, and Dundee will,
we may suppose, be no exception to this rule.
Uverpool Tramiraya. — The Liverpool Tramway
Company is extending a mile of line, at £3,200 a mile for
the permanent way, single line, with passing-places.
The Hanohester Co-operative Stores in Balloon-
street are lighted by incandescent tamps, the current for
which is generated by a Parsons steam turbine plant.
Coventry. — Mr. West will bring in a motion at the
next meeting of the Coventry Town Council that a deputa-
tion be appointed to visit the Crystal Palace Exhibition.
Electric Heaters.— The use of electric beaters in the
tramcars in those cases where they are used, aie found to
make ro perceptible difference in the current consumption.
Edinburgh Tramways. — The Portobello Local
Authority have determined to petition against the Edin-
burgh Tramway Bill, which is being promoted by the tramway
company.
Sir Wllliant Thomson's Title.— In Tuesday's
■ GazelU the titles of the new peers are given, That of
Sir William Thomson is " Baron Kelvin, of Largs, in the
county of Ayr."
Tesla's Experiments.— Mr. J. E. H. Gordon will
contribute an article on Mr. Tesla's experiments to the
March number of the Ninetemth Century.
Resistered Electrical Contractors. — " Lux," in
the Manchtiier Guardian, suggests that the Council should
only allow competent and registered electrical contractors
to fit up installations for the city electric system.
Killed by Lightnine:. — An unusual occurrence hap-
pened at Dartmoor lust Saturday, when a healthy lad of 14,
named William French, was found dead in bed, having been
itruck by ligfatning while asleep. This is almost a unique
accident.
Bamet, — TheBarnet Local Board are complaining of
the bad state of the gaa lighting, and hare instruct«d the
clerk to write to the gas company. The progressive section
of the Board should send a deputation to see the lighting
of Fareham.
Oovemment and Coast Telecra^s. — Mr. Penrose
Fitxgerald has given notice that on March 16 he should
move a resolution, on going into Committee of Supply, with
reference to tolegraphic communication between light
houaea and lifeboat stations.
Klnv's CoUoffa.— The Siemens Laboratory at King's
OoUtge, London, wai formally opened by Sir W. Thomson'
on Friday last. Thii laboratory has bean equipped sod
presented to the college by Lady Siemeni, in memory fA
the lata Sir William Siameru.
New Jmimal.— Wa have recMved Samctt et Commret,
a new French journal devoted to appticationi of science, in
which electricity bears a lai^e part The Iiondon agent ii
Geo. Street and Co. ; the price 60c. ; fortnightly. It
makes a handsome appearance.
O&oe If^wip*' — Young engineers going into busiuen
will find the "Universal Office Manual" (Oxborrowand
Co., 17, Victoria-street, S.W., fii.) of osa to them for
guiding them in the necessary details of commeroe, book-
keeping, and finance, into which it goes very fully.
Cork Tramways. — The Board of Works heki a public
enquiry in Cork with reference to the proposed tramways
on Monday. The cars are to carry 24 passengers, and will
weigh 28cwt. each. The city engineer objected to the use
of overhead wires if electric traction were to be used.
A<dd Fantea. — The discomfort from the acid fumea
from the batteries in the Birmingham electric ears is causing
much discussion. Coughing is said to be frequent from the
acid spray emitted. There should be no difficulty in having
sufficient air-holes under the seats to prevent diacomfort
from this cause.
Pttrtsmonth. — The estimated cost of the plant for
Portsmouth on the high-tension scheme recommended by
Prof. Gamett is £38,285, while the annual receipts from
private and public lighting are expected to reach £10,800.
The expenditure, including interest on £40,000, at 3} per
cent, is estimated at £7,572.
Pnrohase of the Telephone Systom. — Dr.
Cameron has given notice to call attention, on the Civil
Service Estimates, to the relations between the Postal
Telegraph Department and the telephone system. He will
bring forward a motion in favour of the acquirement of the
telephone system by the Post Office.
Eleotrte Mains in Farla. — Une of the Paris electric
light companies is to spend l,300,000f. in altering ite
underground mains and laying mains in two new streets.
The Bulletin Inlematianal remarks that it is said in Paris
the coet of laying a metre of underground mains comes to
90f., and after altering and repair to 160f.
Book Reoeived. — We hare received a copy of
" Modern Practice of the Electric Telegraph — a Technical
Hand-book for Electricians, Managers, and Operators,"
with 185 illustrations, by Frankliu lieonard Pope,
fourteenth edition, rewritten and enlarged. <New York :
Van Noetrand ; and London : Sampson Low and Co.)
City Meat Market.— The Streete Committee of the
Commissioners of Sewers recommend that the Cantral
Markets Committee be informed that there are contracts
for lighting the public streets of the City, and owners can
arrange for private lighting, but there is nothing to prevent
the meat markets producing their own light if they so
desire.
Switch Oatalofftu. — Wa are in receipt of the catalogue
of Mr. A. P. Lundbei^, of Bradbury-straet, Kingsland,
whose switches are well known, being amongst those
earliest in the field for email practical switches. Some
new kinds of switches and wall sockets are shown, besides
good types of main switehes and the original " Pioneer "
switch.
Saving Power. — The current in driving electric cars
is often fai more greatly increased by dust between rails
and wheels than most persons would be inclined to suspect.
The best way to reduce this is by having periodical washing
by salt water, which has been found in practice by American,
194 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 26, 1892.
roads to reduce the consumption 30 per cent. — from 900 to
600 amperes.
St. Helens. — The Local Government Board have
written to the St. Helens town clerk (Mr. W. J. Jeeves)
sanctioning the borrowing of £1,500 for electric lighting of
the Town Hall. For the accommodation of the dynamos
the Water Committee's storage is being removed from the
Town Hall yard to a building specially erected for their
accommodation.
Flsrlng Maobine. — We stated last week that the flying
machine, constructed upon the model of the flying fox, was
made by Messrs. Shaw and Sons, of Coventry. Mr. Albion
T. Snell, engineer to the General Electric Traction Com-
pany, writes to inform us that the machine and motor have
been made by that company to designs by Major Moore ;
the wings only have been made by Messrs. Shaw.
Kleotrio Fire Kngrine. — The Rummer electric fire
engine, made by Messrs. Rummer, of Dresden, uses 50
amperes at 100 volts, or 75 amperes at 65 volts, being 500
watte. The pump throws 500 litres of water per second,
and, with a nozzle of 18 mm. diameter, gives a height of
throw of 35 to 40 metres. It weighs 2^ tons, and costs
only about half that of an ordinary steam fire engine.
Kleotrio Bells. — The new (ninth) edition of the
General Electric Company's catalogue of electric bells has
just been issued. Besides bells, pushes, commutators, and
all necessary fittings of many and varied kinds for electric
bells, it gives illustrations of some neat and cheap sets of
students' experimental sets for studying frictional and
current electricity, which should prove of use to schools.
ResiBtanoe of Cobalt, — Prof. G. G. Nott, in a paper
to the Proceedings of the Soyal Society of Edinburgh, comes
to the conclusion experimentally that between the tempera-
tures of 400deg. G. and TOOdeg. C, the resistance of a
cobalt strip increases on an average at a rate nearly twice
as great as the average rate of increase between Odeg. and
SOOdeg. 0. He also investigates the thermo-electric position
of cobalt.
Kleotroontion at Abattoirs. — The abattoir (public
slaughter-bouse) at Aberdeen is about to be lighted by
electricity. In the event of the use in this direction of an
alternating-current dynamo, a trial will be made of its
capabilities for slaughtering cattle. It is anticipated that
this application may become general if experience should
prove that it has no detrimental effect upon the quality of
the meat.
Chioago Congress. — The work of organising the con-
gress in Division E, Electrical Engineering, during the
Chicago Exhibition, is assigned to the American Institute
of Electrical Engineers. Suggestions are invited. Papers
will be admitted from engineers all over the world and in
any language (to be translated). Gopies or abstracts will
be printed. The work of organising is to bo at once
undertaken.
BlaokpooL — ^The Blackpool Corporation are going in
for an extended scheme of electric lighting. This will
include the extension of the present lights along the
promenade to the extreme end of South Shore, and as far
as The Glynn Inn, North Shore. It is also proposed to
illuminate several of the principal thoroughfares with the
electric light, and likewise supply shops and places of
business requiring it.
Crosrdon. — The new municipal buildings at Croydon
are to be wired for electric light, so that if no private
company undertook the work the Corporation might
eventually supply themselves with electric light. The
Mayor considered the Council had nothing to lose by a
little delay. It is suggested that an electric installation
might be established at the Croydon pumping station for
lighting the Town Hall.
Sooiety of Arts. — Prof. William Sobinson, of Not-
tingham, is about to deliver a course of four Cantor leetnm
on the " Uses of Petroleum in Prime Movers," before the
Society of Arts, on successive Monday evenings, the first
lecture being on Monday next, 29t;h inst After dealing
with the subject generally, the lecturer will treat of petro-
leum oil engines, oil gas, and gaseous fuel for steam boilers.
Kleotrio Railways Deferred. — At a meeting of the
Illinois central board of directors, in Chicago, the projeet
of using electricity as a motive power for trains was aban-
doned. The special committee of directors which has been
investigating the matter reported that, so far as they could
ascertain, the development of electricity as a motive power
has not yet progressed far enough to warrant the company
in attempting to use it in place of steam.
Telephone in the Army. — At the Boyal United
Service Institution last Friday Major Beresford, RK,
lectured on " The Telephone at Home and in the Field."
The great requirements were au improved telephone and a
wider knowledge of shorthand. Telephones could be em-
ployed for coast defence, artillery, submarine mining, rifle
and artillery ranges, communication in the field, intercom-
munication in camp, and for outpost duty.
Kleotrio Float. — The Daily Graphic on Monday
describes and illustrates an invention by Mr. J. Hibberd,
of Cardiff, for connecting the shore with a ship in case of
shipwreck. It consists of a pointed float of sheet iron,
with electric motor and propeller ballasted with sand, which
is discharged when the float strikes the ship, and the float
rises to the suriace, allowing connection by cables to be
made. An incandescent lamp is used as guide.
Liverpool. — At the meeting of the Liverpool Watch
Committee on Monday, the clauses setting forth the terms
agreed upon by the committee and the Liverpool Electric
Supply Company last week were approved of. The Cor-
poration will have the power, if the agreement be endorsed
by the Council, to purchase the undertaking of the com-
pany as a going concern at any time after the 30th of June,
1898, upon giving 12 months' notice of their intention.
Bnry. — An expert in engineering and electric lighting
has visited Bury (Lancashire) and made an inspection of
the various weirs and waterialls on the two local rivers, the
Irwell and Roch, with the view of advising upon their
capabilities for supplying power to drive the dynamos in
order to furnish the town with electricity for lighting
purposes. It is understood that owing to the very irregular
flow of water in the two rivers named that such a scheme
will not be recommended.
Telegraph to Oilgit. — Mr. Olpherts, the officer of
the Telegraph Department who has been examining the
route for the extension of the wire through to Gilgit, has
returned to Srinagar. He has seen the passes at their
worst and can now judge of the chances of the telegraph
being kept up even in the severest snowstorms. He will
probably, says the Indian Engineer, be summoned to
Calcutta to consult with Mr. Brooke, director-general of
telegraphs, regarding the consLruction of the line next
summer.
Spnrgeon's Orphanage. — An action has been brought
by the authorities of Spurgeon's Stockwell Orphanage
against the City and South London Electric Bailvi^y Com-
pany, to restrain the company from causing vibration. The
defendants pleaded statutory right. Mr. Justice Rekewich
on Tuesday said the defendants were right in law, but as,
according to the report of the engineer, they had not at
first done all that was possible to mitigate the nuisancOi
SKiipUnunl to the " Eleotbical Eniiihebb," Febrvary 26tli,
RAYNaFOBD
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 26, 1892. l96
they must pay the costs of the action up to the end of
1891, and £50 damagea.
Fire at UsBsrs. BodgeB and Todd.— Referring
to the fire which occurred last Thursday in Verulam -street,
which completely destroyed the works of Messrs. Hodges
and Todd, we are pleased to learn the fire did not originate
on their premises, as reported by many of the daily papers,
but commenced on adjoining premiBes. They have secHred
new premises at 19, Kirhy-street, Hattoii-garden, and the
work of fitting up is being rapidly pushed forward, and in
a few days they hope to be able to execute all their orders.
Mntnol Telephone Company, Limited. — The
February list of subacribers to this company's Manchester
exchange contains over 1,000 names. This is the result of
exactly 13 months' working, the exchange having been
opened on February 38, 1801, with 68 subscribers.
Counting the orders on hand still to be executed, irre-
speclive of those daily received, the Mutual Company's
exchange has already attained greater proportions than
that of the National Company in the same town. The
company has also 500 spare metallic circuits erected and a
number of private lines.
Pamphlets Received. — We are pleased to acknow-
ledge some very interesting electrical pamphlets and
reprints forwarded to us by Prof. W. E. Ayrton, F.R.S.,
President I.E.E. These comprise papers on "Quadrant
Electrometers," from the Proceedings of the Eoyal Society,
by Prof. Ayrton, Prof. Perry, and Dr. W. E. Sumpner ;
on " The Construction of Non-inductive Resistances,'' from
the PhU. Mag., by Prof. Ayrton and Mr. T. Mather ; on
" Alternate Current and Potential Difference Analogies in
the Methods of Measuring Power," from the P/til. Mag., by
Prof. Ayrton and Dr. Sumpner.
Telephone Bills.— The town clerk of the Gravesend
Town Council, at the special meeting last week, reported
objectionable features in these Bills, in which the National
Telephone Company, Limited, more especially sought very
unusual powers, both as regards public and private property,
the whole of England, and this without ofi'ering to bind
mselves to supply communication or to limit its price or
;he rate of dividends they might divide. The committee
'ecommend the Council to petition against both Bills, on
<he understanding that the opposition be undertaken
through the Municipal Corporations A^ociation, at a cost
not exceeding £20.
Islington Eleotrio Railway. — The parliamentary
estimates of the cost of extending the City and South
London Railway to Islington have been prepared by Mr.
J. H. Greathead, the engineer to the company. The length
of this extension is given in these estimates as two miles
five furlongs three chains, and the total cost is set down at
£70S,633. Of this sum, £330,540 will, it is estimated, be
spent in tunnelling, £211,000 upon the acquisition of land
and buildings, £81,600 upon stations, and £13,500 for the
subway for foot passengers to and from Fish street-hill.
The laying of the permanent way will absorb £15,844, of
which £2,500 will be for sidings, whilst for contingencies
a sum amounting to £di,li9 is allowed.
Railway Station Indicator. —Considerable discus-
sion has been aroused in the daily papers with reference to
the statement by the President of the Board of Trade that
be was not aware of any mechanism by which the indica-
tion of the names of stations could be given in the carriages
themselves. One suggestion is that no mechanism is neces-
sary, but that the porters should slip at each stopping,
place cards with the name of the station into slots at the
windows. This is simple but clumsy, and could hardly be
found to work in piacUce, We may mention thut in the
Crystal Palace Exhibition, South Gallery, is an electric
railway station indicator, to be worked from the guard's
van, shown by Messrs. Thatcher and Devereux, 15, Chivalry
road, Battersea.
ShipUghtinK.— A preliminary trial of the dynamo^
and electrical littings of the cruiser "Edgar" was made at
Keyham on Tuesday, hut was not completed. The "Edgar"
has been supplied with three dynamo-engines of the Siement
type, one of which is to be used under ordinary circumstances,
whilst the other two — which are protected from shells
by the ship's engines^are intended for use in action. Each
of the three engines is capable of developing 400 amperes at
80 volts, and is intended to light the ship throughout,
besides supplying the necessary force for working four
search-lights of 2.500 c.p. The "Edgar" is lighted
internally by 400 incandescent lights of 16 c.p. Sunbeam
and yardarm lights will be supplied for special purposes
such as coaling. The bunkers and magazines are abo
lighted by electricity.
Arc V. Incandesoent. — The proposal having been
made to use 150-c.p. incandescent lamps for street lighting;
at Portsmouth, Mr. Jas. Blake, managing director of the
Fareham Company, writes to the Portsmouth paper to
point out that while two 150-c.p. lamps would take nearly
* h.p., a 1,200-c.p. arc can be produced for J h.p., or,
allowing 60 per cent, for globe absorption, say, 600 c.p.,
giving a. difi'erence in favour of arcs of eight to one. In
maintenance, at three renewals a year, the eight incan-
desoents would cost 60s., while his experience with arc
lamps shows that 40s. would not be exceeded for consump-
tion of carbons. He asks the Portsmouth Town Council to
send a deputation to visit their small neighbour, when ha
promises to show them " a mile and a half of the best-
lighted streets in this country."
Ooole. — At the monthly meeting of the Qoole Local
Board, held last week, Mr. Hind said that he wished to
move an amendment in respect of that portion of the
minutes relating to laying of electric cables. He wished
to move that permission be given to lay down electric
cables, subject to the restrictions that an agreement ha
entered into between the promoters of the electric company
and the Local Board, giving them the power, and that
power should be given to the Board to at any time pur-
chase the electric works from the applicants, at a price to
be fixed by the valuers, in the usual way. The reason ha
moved this was that it would be necessary, in case the
Local Beard took the gas lighting over, they should also
have the electric lighting. Thiii was carried, with an addi-
tion that the permission be given subject to such by-laws
and conditions as the Board may hereafter make.
Systems of Traction. — An American engineer is at
present in England wanting English capitalists to take up
his system of open conduit for electric traction. Mean*
time, Messrs. Siemens's system, as used at Budapest, is being
taken up in America by a powerful syndicate, who are
going to lay six miles at once. Messrs. Manville and
Waller, of Victoria-street, have an excellent open-conduib
system which they are willing to instal at once on ordeis
being received. We hear nothing further awhile about
Mr. Gordon's closed-conduit system, Possibly something
practical may come of this. Mr. Lineff is hardly doing as
much as was expected of him. Accumulator traction is
being quietly organised for large strokes of business, and
the Thomson Houston Company has shown us the way in
overhead work, and may be expected to develop other
work vigorously. Mr. Holroyd Smith is reported busy on
his experimental line, and other schemes are in the wind.
Surely electric tramway work in England must shortly go
ahead with all this stirring enterprise beae&th ib.^ «.>\t^3isa.
196 THE ELfiCfUlCAL ENGINEER. fEBRtfARY 26, 1892.
BoUing Bfagnets. — The influence of steam on magnets
is the subject of an interesting note in the Schweizerische
Bauzeiiungj in which reference is made to the researches of
Strouhal and Bams. These have shown that with long-
continued heating in steam, magnets lose from 28 to 67 per
cent, of their power. If, after this, the magnets are
remagnetised and again exposed to the action of steam,
only a very slight loss of magnetic power is found to
take place. The experiments which have been made
woold seem to warrant the conclusion also, that
after such treatment a magnet is less liable to
deterioration from mechanical vibration as well as
heat. In one of the experiments a short magnet was
boiled in water for four hours. It was then magnetised
and held in an atmosphere of steam for two hours more,
after which its magnetic moment was measured. It was
then subjected to 50 blows from a piece of wood, both
transversely and longitudinally. Again measuring its
magnetic moment showed a loss of 7^, and on repeating
the hammering with the wooden bar the loss was j^ of
the original moment. In view of this, repeated steaming
and magnetising is recommended as a good means of
securing permanent magnetism in pieces of hard steel.
A New Use for the Miorophone.— Prof. D. £.
Hughes, F.R.S., writes to us from 69, Pall mall, S.W.,
yesterday : " Having been engaged for many years experi-
menting with my microphone for the detection of sounds
too feeble for the unaided human ear, I am pleased to
notice by the following paragraph in the Daily Telegraph of
February 25 that it has been successfully applied in St.
Petersburg to the saving of human life." The paragraph
says : " Some particulars of a remarkable case of revival
from apparent death have come to hand from St. Petersburg.
A lady who had been suflering from a violent nervous attack
sank into a state of syncope, and after a time ceased, as it
seemed, to breathe. The doctor who was attending her certi-
fied that death had resulted from paralysis of the heart. For
some reason which is not explained another medical man.
Dr. Loukhmanow, saw the body, and having been informed
that the lady had suffered from attacks of hysteria and
catalepsy, thought it worth while to make a thorough
examination. After trying various other means he applied
the microphone to the region of the heart, and was enabled
by this instrument to hear a faint beating, which proved
that life was not extinct. Everything was done to resusci-
tate the patient, who, shortly afterwards, recovered con-
sciousness."
H.M.S. ** RamiUies."— The forthcoming launch of the
new first-class twin-screw battleship H.M.S. "Bamillies"
will take place at Clyde Bank on Tuesday, March 1st, at
1.30 p.m. Electricity has played a considerable part in
building the ship, the temporary installation being under the
charge of Mr. John Young. The ship's sides were bored
by electrical drillers, made especially for the occasion by
Messrs. McWhirter and Ferguson, Faraday Electrical
Works, Govan, under the superintendence of Mr. A. A.
Stewart, chief engineer, Clyde Bank Shipyard. The belt
deck and other decks were also drilled by three other
electrical drillers. The diameter of holes in the ship's
side were 5^in., Sin. of teak being bored before penetrating
the two steel plates, each 3^in. thick. Electric light is, of
course, used — at the large cutters six 400-c.p. Sunbeam
lamps on deck, and six below in the stokeholes and
engine-rooms. There are also 100 16-c.p. incandescent lamps,
and another 200 are being fitted up for present lighting in
magazines, shell, store, and ammunition rooms, passages,
and other places throughout the ship. The current is now
supplied from a Crompton dynamo, working at 110 volts,
driven off shafting in connection with shipyard machinery,
a main cable, ^Vi4s being employed. After launching, the
installation will be supplied by a Robey portable engine
and boiler combined, and a Paterson and Cooper dynamo
will be employed on deck for temporary lighting. The
battleship is to be christened by her Grace the Duchess of
Abercom, and a large concourse of spectators and visitors
is expected.
dmreh by Telephone. — Several instances have lately
been recorded of the transmission of church services by
telephone. One of the most successful of these seems to
have been that carried out the other Sunday — ^from Christ
Church, Birmingham, to Derby, 40 miles away. An "extra-
parochial" congregation of 17 persons assembled to take
part in the telephonic service arranged for them by Mr.
OUerenshaw, the district inspector of the National Tele-
phone Company. At 10.30 a.m. they seated themselves
before the table, on which lay a number of ordinary Bell
receivers. The bell was tolling loud and clear, and was
audible over the room. Then it ceased, and nothing was
audible except the broken murmur of footsteps and the
opening of books. A soft note was heard through the
murmur, then bursting into the full power of the oirg&Qi
and again subsiding. Next a voice, which soon recited
the familiar "Dearly beloved brethren," every word being
distinctly articulated. The responses, the psalms, and
Jubilate were all so realistic as to render it difficult for the
listeners to remember they were not in church. The
Birmingham church is the only one in the Midlands yet
fitted with telephone. The arrangements are somewhat
complicated, and include transmitting microphones in the
choir and belfry, and before the pulpit, lectern, and reading-
desk. The churchwarden has a switchboard in his pew,
and his duty is to keep the proper transmitter in circuit.
Already " church " is supplied regularly to about a hundred
people in Birmingham and district, some of whom have not
been able to attend a service for years previous to the
introduction of a telephonic service.
OUusffow Tramways. — A deputation representing
the Glasgow Corporation last week went for a week's tour
for the purpose of enquiring into the various methods of
tramway traction in use throughout the country. The
party was headed by Bailie Paton, accompanied by Bailies
Wallace and Stevenson, Councillors Bell and Thomson, Mr.
Bankine, C.E., and Mr. Arnott, the city electrician. They
commenced their enquiries at Chester, where they witnessed
some experiments with low-{)ressure compressed-air cars by
Messrs. Hughes and Lancaster. From Chester, on the
Monday night, they proceeded to Birmingham, where on
the following day they had an opportunity of inspecting
the electric and cable tramway system of that city.
The deputation afterwards journeyed to London, where they
were shown the electric storage cars at Barking-road, and
afterwards the conversion from horse to cable traction of the
South London tramways at Brixton. Setting out again for
the North, Bailie Paton and his associates arrived in Leeds on
Thursday night, and spent the day in that town. They
were received by Alderman Firth, the chairman of the
Corporation Highways Committee, and Mr. Prince, super-
intendent of the highways department. In the morning
they inspected the electric car section on which Leeds
people are conveyed from Sheepscar to Roundhay Park, as
well as the site of a proposed extension of that branch of
the tramway system from Beckett-street to Tork-street.
The deputation were conducted over this recently-made
experiment with electric car by Mr. Davenport, the
managing director of the Thomson-Houston Company, and
by Mr. Graff-Baker, the lessee of the Roundhay Park line.
The party expressed their gratification and interest in all
they had seen.
THE i^htCfntCAL DNGlNIiER, ^'EBRtTARt 26, 189^. 1«7
Oity Kleetrio Railway. — At the meeting of the Com-
missioners of Sewers on the 21st, Mr. Clarke presented the
report of the Local (Government and Taxation Committee,
asking the Court to order the presentation of petitions
against the following Bills, with authority to engage the
services of an engineer : Central London Bailway, City and
South London Railway (Islington extension). Great
Northern and City Bailway, Boyal Exchange and Waterloo
Bailway, and Waterloo and City Bailway. Mr. Clarke said
the committee reported that they considered the time had
arrived when the Gk)vemment should consider the whole
question of these electric railway enterprises, because
their number seriously threatened many portions of the
City of London. There was a proposal to interfere with
several important public ways in the City ; while there
was another proposition to construct a tunnel near
London Bridge, which was giving the Bridge Committee
much anxiety. There was a proposition also by one of
these railway companies to take up underground
the vacant space between the Mansion House and the
Boyal Exchange. But by agreeing to the report of the
committee the Corporation would possess a locus standi
before a committee of the House of Commons when these
questions were being considered. It was considered very
necessary that Colonel Haywood should be consulted,
together with perhaps another eminent engineer like
Mr. J. Wolfe Barry, because the committee felt that
Colonel Haywood knew more about the wants of the City
streets than any other man in London. Mr. Deputy
Bedford agreed that this matter was of immense importance
to the City of London, and would have to be approached
with the utmost care and watchfulness. Mr. Deputy
Haywood asked if the Waterloo and Exchange Bailway
Bill had not been withdrawn. The Remembrancer replied
in the negative. The report of the committee was then
unanimously adopted.
Coast Commnnioation and Defence. — The follow-
ing information and statistics have been sent us by Mr. J.
Lawrence-Hamilton, M.B.C.S., late honorary president
Fishermen's Federation, of 30, Sussex-square, Brighton :
The United Kingdom has an indented coast line probably
exceeding 10,000 miles. Telegraph overhead wires and
posts at, say, £40 a mile would cost upwards of £400,000.
To supplement its 681 coastguard stations, which in case
of war are to be increased by 78 extra stations, the United
Kingdom requires upwards of 700 new signal stations,
which at about an average rate of £1,200 each might cost,
say, £840,000. Besides shore lighthouses, the United
Kingdom possesses probably upwards of 100 rock light-
houses without submarine cables. The cable from Tory
Island rock lighthouse to the shore cost about £6,000,
which sum may be often exceeded for similar purposes.
Cables connecting lightships to the shore are easily
snapped by the to and fro swinging of the vessels,
especially during storms, gales, etc. Excluding the con-
nection of lightships to the shore, a complete coast
communication would probably involve an initial
expenditure exceeding £5,000,000, and over £350,000
a year for maintenance. The 1891-1892 surplus
postal profits have been estimated at £3,371,000,
which income seems likely to increase in future years.
For saving life and property at sea, as well as for defen-
sive purposes, our coast communication should be com-
pleted with the annual surplus postal profits. French
trawlers, manned exclusively by naval reserve crews, fish
all round Cornwall, the west and north-west Irish
coasts, making frequent visits. The French Naval
Reserve is intimately familiar with our Irish coasts, which
in some situations are unguarded by coastguards and with-
out iel6grq)hs, except at a distance of upwards of 35 miles.
Even then the "nearest" telegraph station maybe only
open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and closed all Sunday. Mr.
Lawrence-Hamilton, in addition to furnishing these
pregnant statistics, further suggests that the United King-
dom could raise from our British fisherfolk a volunteer
defensive naval reserve of about 100,000 men, and a
volunteer defensive cadet reserve of 100,000 fisherboys.
A Sky Timepiece. — Our attention is called to an
invention by which an ordinary clock is practically magni-
fied to such a size as to permit of its being seen for a radius
of 50 miles around. This is a big statement to make, and
probably hardly credible at first, but it has an element of
possibility in it. It is, we understand, a recent invention of
Mr. H. T. Dickinson, of 56, Gray's-inn-road, London, who
also owns the patents. The actual time-indicating clockwork
is the same size as an ordinary turret clock, but con-
nected with this there is a second train of clockwork
which is controlled by the clock proper, and is put in
motion every minute, when it whizzes round (regu-
lated by an ordinary fan governor) and actuates an
electric flashing lens, in much the same way as the striking
mechanism of an ordinary clock acts. The beam of light
reflected into the sky goes through the movement of a
striking hammer when the clock is indicating the even
hour. This is, however, only one signal made by the
apparatus. . Another symbol is used for every complete
interval of five minutes, and yet another for odd minutes.
Thus, supposing the time to be 7.27, this would be denoted
by the seven beats in the first instance, then five other
signs (indicating 5x5 minutes), then two short, sharp
flashes for the two odd minutes. This operation is gone
through every minute, the signalling taking on an average
about 10 seconds. Of course, it will be evident to anyone
that the system of signal used can be modified to suit any
conditions, and, further, that the code has only to be under-
stood to enable anyone with a little practice to read this
sky clock with ease. Such apparatus placed in the centre
of this vast metropolis might be a great boon to the in-
habitants, and that after a little practice the time would be
read off as easily as from an ordinary time dial. There
would be no excuse for the vagaries of time now indicated
in most houses, and even public buildings, where if the
timepiece is within a few minutes of the actual time it is
allowed to pass. With this clock at work it would only be
necessary to run to the front door to see the time so as to
correct the kitchen clock, or for the City man catching his
train in the evening to check his watch. At the ptesent
time many clocks in large offices and stations are electri-
cally synchronised hourly from a standard clock, but this
convenience has to be paid for, and is rather costly. Mr.
Dickinson's clock would not only permit of clocks being
synchronised, but watches too, and for no charge. We are
airaid the inventor will have some difficulty in getting the
authorities in London to take up the matter,but what a chance
for some of the large advertising firms ! A sum of money
spent on a public benefit of this nature would keep the
firm's name with which it ¥^s coupled before the public in
a more lasting manner than could be gained from the
ordinary advertising channels. The invention is worth
trying, at any rate, at an exhibition. Mr. Dickinson had
better get the Electrical Exhibition to take it up and give
London " Crystal Palace time." If it were successful in
London, it woidd be followed in all the most important
cities throughout the world as a public necessity, and
handsome royalties might be expected by the inventor.
We believe something of the sort has been done in Sydney,
but this, if we remember, is an hourly flash. We under-
stand that the first of Mr. Dickinson's sky clocks is now in
course of erection, so that the public will shortly have a
chance of judging of the promised effect.
W8 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY S6. 189^.
OUR PORTRAITS.
Jaokaon, Colonel B. Rasnuford, born in 1S23, is
tb« son of the late Captain Jackson, R.N., J.P., of the
county of Laacaater, honorary colonel of the 3rd Brigade
of Lancaahire Artillery Volunteers from 1861. He vaa
Eartner in the exteneire cotton spinning and manufacturing
uaineas of the late Sir Wm. Fielden, Bart, of which,
after retirement of Colonel Montague Fielden, he aubse-
quently became sole proprietor. He was chairman of the
National Telephone Company from its formation early in
1861 until the amalgamation of the principal telephone
companies into one company, vhich retained the name of
the National Telephone Company, in May 1889, when
he was elected, and has continued, vice-president of the
com[)any.
Houae-to House Electric Light Supply Company, and one of
the lai^est electric light stations on the Continent for the
Electricity Supply Company for Spain at Madrid. He ie
now executing the contract which the Electrical Engineering
Company of Ireland made with the Dublin Corporation.
Holden, Captain Henry Capel ZiOfft, Royal
Artillery. Bom in Cheltenham on the 23rd January, 1856,
passed the Royal Military Academy, Woolwich, and
obtained his first commiasion in the Royal Artillery in
Auguat, 1875. He aerved in India from 1877 to 1881,
and whilst there carried out a number of experiments in
telephony and telegraphy, having been granted the
singular favour of a license for a private line by the
Government of India for this purpose. Since 1886 he has
been in charge of the department for the proof of guns and
experiments therewith in the Royal Arsenal, Woolwich,
and he has invented and designed whilst there many
Skslch ol the SUnd of tlis Acm« Electric Worka at the CrriUl PiUce.
Hammond, Robert. Born in 1850, and took up
electrical engineering in connection with his Middlesbrough
bueineas in 1879. He is now the aols partner in the firm
of Hammond and Co., electrical engineers, of 117, Bisho^ia-
gate-street Within, London, and Middlesbrough. He ia the
accepted candidate for the Hallam division of Sheffield.
He was the first purchaser of a Brush concession, and for
some time pushed the Bruah busineas very vigorously, but
as in those days the Brush Company had no reliable incan-
descent machine, he severed hia connection with them and
obtained the co-operation of Mr. Ferranti, Hammond and
Co. devoted themselves io the early days to the lighting of
iron works, steel rail milla, etc., and fitted inatallationa into
the principal iron worka of the country. As early as 1881
Mr. Hammond took up the problem of the distribution of
electricity from central stations, and founded the pioneer
stations at Brighton, Eastbourne, and Hastinga. In recent
times he has laid down the West Brompton station of the
electrical instruments connected with his profession. He
was deputed by II. M. Secretary of State for War to visit
and report upon the electrical appliances at the Paris
Exhibition of 1889, aa well aa that at Frankfort in 1891.
Stuart, Captain A. BI., of the Royal Engioeere. Like
many of hia colleaguea in that celebrated corps, he has had
considerable experience with military electrical work.
Entered the Royal Engineers in 1879, and waa engaged in
submarine mining and telegraph work from 1681 to 1884.
During the succeeding years, from 1884 to 1687, experience
was gained in London and on the Egyptian frontier in all
that concerns military telegraphy. For the next two years
Captain Stuart was with the southern division of the Post
Office telegraphs, and since fhat time to the present has
been assistant instructor in electricity at the School of
Engineering, at Chatham.
Taylor, Colonel dn Flat, although not now included
within the ranks of electrical engineers, has claims to member-
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 26, 1892. 199
■hip with the frateroity. His busineas life comtDenced UDdor
the ffigia of the Poatmaster-G^neral, and so far hia connec-
tion with the Post Office can hardly be said to have been
■erered, inasmuch as he ia the colonel commanding the Post
Office Volunteers.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
We have so often referred to the enterprise of the
Crystal Palace District Company in carrying out under
great pressure the Sydenham-hill lighting station, and have
described so much of the work, that only one important
link remains practically unmentioned. We can now remove
the veil and refer to the apparatus. Perhaps the one
feature in the supply of current to the Cryataf Palace by
the District Company is the adoption of fairly high-pres-
sure continuous currents generated at the central station
and transformed downwards by continuous -current motor-
generators at the distributing station. It is unnecessary in
a more or less popular description of exhibits to enter
into technical details that can be left for a future
that ia, requires do extraneous current to excite the
magnets. The Palace machines, as illustrated herewith, are
wound to give an output at the secondary terminals ot
110 volta, 360 amperes, when supplied with primary
current at an E.M.F. of 1,000 volts, and runs at a speed of
550 revolutions per miuute. The efficiency is stated to be
as high as 91 per cent, with full load, and over 81 per cent,
down to one-third load. The bearings are fitted with
specially -designed oil pumps bo as to secure continuous
lubrication, allowing the machine to be left for lengthened
pwriods without attention. A similar machine to this has
been running at the Chelsea Electricity Supply Company's
station for the last 18 months, and recently a second one
has been added. The company have also in hand a complete
central station for Oxford, where high-tension continuous
currents with these transformers has been adopted.
Tbe Acme Eleotrlo Works, Stand 170, have an
exceedingly prettily - arranged exhibit, which includes
examples of their various makes of instruments, switches,
and switchboards.
Ueasn. Woodhonse and Rawsoii, Stand 103, at
the south end of the Xorth Nave, have a large exhibit of
their various manufactures. It is rendered specially notice-
in Corpuntinii'i Motor den
time, and undoubtedly a good deal of discussion wilt
range around the use of this apparatus. The general
reader knows that the use of motors with continuous
currents has long been practical. Such motors are in
use the world over, and great advances have been made
in obtaining in one shape or other motors for alternate
currents, but the use of such motors is not general.
Restricting our remarks, then, to continuous currents, it is
well known that electrical energy can be given to a motor
and mechanical enei^y obtained therefrom. This mechanical
energy can be used to turn another dynamo or to turn
a Uthe. In the motor-generator the mechanical energy
obtained from the motor is used to turn a dynamo, and
to aimplify matters, both motor and dynamo are erected
upon one shaft, It is simply a combination of two
machines, but a combination wLich increases the efficiency
of the apparatus as a whole. In the Crystal Palace
bnildiag are nine of these motor-generators, eight of which
are in use, as stated in our article of last week, by the
Cryatal Palace District Company, and are to be found
under the floor of the main building. The ninth is to be
found in the Maohioe Department, at the stand of the
Kl«etrio Constmctlon Corporation. The latter
ditfon from the former in that it is self-starting —
able by reason of two large diamond-shaped pieces of wood
which are suspended over it. Grooved letters, W. & R.,
are formed by fitting together pieces of silvered glass. In
the grooves thus formed incandescent lamps, coloured
alternately blue and red, are placed, and clockwork is
arranged to alter the connections at certain intervals and
so form the letters first with red-celoured lamps and then
with blue. The diamond containing their initials is the
company's well-known trade-mark,
A jirominent object in the stand is the Kingdon dynamo,
illustrated herewith, which has more than once been fully
described in our columns. In this type of alternator the
armature and field magnet are both stAtionair, and the
necessary alternations m magnetic field are obtained by
revolving in front of them a large iron wheel. What is
very much to the purpose is that this type of alternator is
being used in central stations, as at Woking. In the exhibit
it is driven by means of leather link belting by a Wood-
house and Rawson motor, supplied with current from the
mains of the Crystal Palace and District Eleotnc Lighting
Company, Limited.
The necessity for a good motor for launch work led the
company to design the " Woodhonse and Rawson," several
sizes of which are shown. Special pains have been taken
200 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBBPARY 26, 1892.
to keep the centre of gnvity as low aa poasible, and also
to render the armatnre waterproof. These and other
improTements, among which may be mentioned the use of
carbon brushes, are claimed to have resulted in the prod ac-
tion of a reliable motor which just now is receiving a good
deal of attention. The uses of electromotors ore dailj
increasing. It is only during the past year or tiro that
The only work the man in charge his to do is to put these
drums in or out of gear. When in gear the load la hoisted
and when out it is lowered by gravity.
To meet the demand for an electrical governor for con-
trolling turbines and engines driving dynamoa, a special
form of the Porte-ManvilTe type is shown. The Tariations
in the strength of an electric current are made to actuate a
Tbe KlDidon. DjDuno.
Englishmen have Ixigun to appreciate the many advantages
of such machines. Their economy is now a well-established
fact, and wherever an electric current is easily available,
their application is daily extending. In tbe larger sizes,
eapecialfy when intended for use as a dynamo, the design
is slightly altered, the maftnetising coil being placed at the
side of the armature instead of the top. '
ratchet-wheel, and ao control the movements, either of tbe
connecting-rod between the mecbanioal governor and the
steam engine, the valves of a turbine, or a switch which
varies the resistance in circuit in the exoitinf; circuit of a
dynamo.
Above the stand a crown of six Uidget an lamps is
shown. These lamps, it is said, are rapidly becoming
Electric '.winch.
One of Bolton's patent electric winches is exhibited in
action. The axle of a Woodhouse and Rawson motor
ia attached to worm gearing, which reduces the speed to
the required limit. These winches are specially suitable
for use on board ships on account of their noiseless action.
The winch consists of an electric motor, which is geared on
to a centre gear drum. At each end of this drum, which is
always revolving, tbe hoisting drums iire gripped by friction.
favourites for lighting small areas and large buildings, and
form a very economical means of illumination. Hitherto
the great unsteadiness of small arc lamps — ie,, lamps of
about 600 c.p. — have prevented their coming into use, but
now that this difficulty has been overcome we may expect
their use to rapidly increase.
The company show various types of switches suitable
for carrying large currente up to 1,000 amperes, or sufficient
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 26, 1892. 201
to light over 1,600 incandescent 16-c.p. lamps. Double-pde
BwitchM h&Te lateljr come into use, and several special
designs of those are shown, These are suited for installa-
tions where very large currents are used ; while other
has boen widely used and appreciated, is inserted in
an elecbic cironit for the pnrpoee of breaking connec-
tion when the current exceeai a predetermined limit
The type now adopted and shown at the Palace^ slightly
deiigni are siutable for smaller currents. Where high
electrical pressures are used, the type illustrated is found
convenient.
Some years ago the company introduced the
Cnnynghame magnetic cutK>ut. This instrument, which
different from the original design. The current of elec-
tricity in passing around the pivoted coil creates a mag-
netic field, and tends to move in such a direction as to
enclose more of the iron core. As the current increases .
this tendency to move becomes stronger, until at last the
302 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 26, 1892.
The electrical singineer, February 26, i89t 203
ends are quite withdrawn from the mercury, and the centre
of Kravity of the coil is moved to the other aide of the
pivoting point, and the coil falls over by the force of
gfavity, thus permanently breaking the circuit. These
iDStrumenta are of great use for such purposes as charging
accumulators, protecting an electric light inatallatioii from
risk of szcesB current should the engine be overrun, and
many other contingencies which electrical engineers often
meet with. These are shown in all sizes, one collection of
six forming a complete series capable of breaking the
circuit at any strength from one to 1,000 amperes.
A novelty just introduced is a contrivance for switching
in an electric circuit at any predetermined time. A clock
is set to a certain hour, and it is so arranged that its move-
ments release a pivoted arm, which, when free, fait into two
mercury-cupe, and make electric contact. Another useful
appliance is the lavatory switch. It is designed for the
purpoee of economising the use of lamps, and is affixed to
the door frame so that alternate openings and closings of
the door turn the light on or off.
The expiry of some of the more important telephone
patents having opened the telephone market, this company
and ingenious types of awitchas and accessones are shown.
Small awitches in brass and porcelain, the latter artistically
decorated, are shown in great variety. The best-known nf
the ewitches is the ordinary house type, with quick break
and sudden release handle, of which some 100,000 are in
use. One of the latest introductions is that here illustrated,
No. 60 pattern. The contact arm, after breaking current,
is quietly brought to rest by the same spring which accele-
rates its movement when switching off the current — thus
securing a non-percussive action, which dispenses with the
jarring which is so often a source of trouble by loosening
the wires in the terminals. A very useful and rather
?]cutiar double-pole main switch is also exhibited.
bey are mads of gunmetal on paraffined slate. They
have an instantaneous break, however slowly the handle
may be turned, and this is secured either by a tension
spring or a coiled spring round the shaft, the latter
being now preferred. The action is very satisfactory and
the workmanship excellent. We also show a six-way
accumulator switch, the change in contacts of which are
made instantaneously on moving the handle, thus avoiding
the short-circuiting of cells.
have introduced several new forms of instruments, and are
nakiug domestic telephony one of their chief specialities
The illustrations give some idea of the designs exhibited,
which are loud-speaking and reliable.
' The switchboard illustrated is one of the latest designs,
ud contains several novel features. It is intended for use
with com pound- wound electromotors, and the locking
amDKementa of the switch are so arranged to first of aA\
put ua series-wound coils in a position to increase the
iteength of the magnetic field ; and afterwards, when the
n»gfitAB are fully excited, to reverse the direction of the
flow of current through them, so as to allow them to
ptrform their proper compounding function. The handles
we loekod by the vulcanised fibre rings, so that it is impoa-
nble to torn them in any other order than that necessary
for iierforming the necessary changes in the electrical con-
DWtioni. The otiier exhibits on this stand are well wortii
evefnl ucainination.'
. At the end of the Soath Nave, near the fountains, is
tbe azhifait of MeMTS. Dorman and Smith, the well-
known manufacturers of electric switches and fittings. It
ii well worth a visit from electrical engineers, as me new
Still another kind of switch which should be mentioned
is shown at this exhibit. Messrs. Dorman and Smith are
sole makers of Siemens patent carbon contact switch. The
final break of this switch is between two carbon blocks, and
this arrangement is useful in keeping the metallic contacts
clean and free from burning. A D. and S. spring is used to
prevent the contact from remaining in an arcing posi-
tion. Lamphotders shown by this firm are worthy of
attention. One or two of the D. and S. patterns are
much appreciated by the trade. Samples of their
wall-BOckete (double peg, and also concentric), ceiling roses
with their patent arrangement for taking the strain off the
wires, besides cut-outs of all kinds, are exhibited. A
handsome and very serviceable balance lamp pendant is
shown, with cut-glass globe — any kind of shade can, of
course, he used therewith. Brass and cast-iron ship and
mill fittings of all descriptions, including Sunbeam lamp
fittings, are exhibited, and many of these being specially
designed for colliery lighting. Switchboards, of which
Dorman and Smith make many varieties, are represented
by a lar^ enamelled board in walnut frame, mounted with
their main switches of various types.
S04
ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 26, 1892.
nrr
THE
tLECTRICAL ENGINEER.
Published every Friday.
Priee. Threepenee ; Post Free, Threepence Halfpenny.
Editorial and Publishingr Offices :
189-140, SALISBURY COURT, FLEET STREET,
LONDON, E.C.
Notes 193
Our Portraita 198
The Crystal Palace Exhibi-
tion .„ 199
DeputatioDB at the Palace... 204
Correfpondence 205
Practical InstmineDts for
the Measurement of Elec-
tricity 206
Electric Tramways on the
Overhead or Trolley Wire
System 207
Some Experimental Inves-
tigations of Alternate
Currents 209
Cable-Layinff at Tangier ... 210
Utilisation of Water Power
in Madras 211
Electro-Harmonic Society... 211
Physical Society 211
The National Telephone
Service 212
Companies' Meetings »• 213
Companies' Reports 215
New Companies Registered 215
Business Notes 216
Provisional Patents, 1892 ... 216
Specifications Published 216
Companies' Stock and Share
List 216
TO G0RRB8P0NDBNT8.
AU Rights Reserved. Seorekmes and Managers of Companies
are ifwikd to furnish notice of Meetings, Issue of New
Shares, Installations, Contracts, and any information
connected with Electrical Engineering which may be
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any account of their inventions submitted to us will
receive our best consideration,
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C. H. W. Biggs, 1S9-140, Salisbury Court, Fleet Street,
London, E.G. Anonymous communications toill not be
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With this issue of the Paper is given a Supplement containing
Portraits, taken from photographs, of Ckaonel B. Baynaford
Jaekson, GMoael dn PUt Taylor, Captain H. C. L. Holdoa,
Captain A. M. Stuart, ana Mr. Robert Hammond.
Every reader shottUl see that he geU thitt SupplemeiU, and lum-
delivery with the Paper should be reported at the Publishing Office.
DEPUTATIONS AT THE PALACE.
The notice-board at the Crystal Palace will, from
now to the end of the Exhibition seldom, be free
from a notice that such and such a deputation will
visit the Palace on certain days. Yesterday and
to-day the Mayor and the members of the Derby
Corporation have been seeking information. Last
week we recorded the visit of a deputation from
Nottingham, and prior to that, from Blackpool.
Other deputations are to follow, each seeking
for certain information. We have already sug-
gested to exhibitors that they be well repre-
sented and prepared to receive such visitors. It
may, however, be more necessary to advise the
deputations than the exhibitors. The latter are
sellers, and keen to do business ; the former are
likely purchasers, and every effort will naturally be
made to give them a bias in this or that direction.
No doubt the sellers are somewhat anxious to book
definite orders, but instead of benefiting them-
selves they may do harm by showing too great
an eagerness. They know that the patronage of
one town will amply repay for the trouble, anxiety,
and expense of the exhibition, and would like an
immediate contract as the result. Corporation
business does not move so rapidly as all this. Depu-
tations do not come provided with a commission to
order a central station and all the appurtenances
thereof. They come to get provided with answers
to opponents, and arguments to induce consti-
tuents to agree to follow the stream of progress.
It must be regretted that several well-known firms
have held aloof from this Exhibition. The time is
very opportune. Men's minds are turning with
favour towards electric lighting, and those who
exhibit at the Palace will certainly be put in a
favourable position in connection with those places
from which deputations come. For example,
one of the most important questions with
which members of corporations will concern
themselves, is that of mains. What kind of
mains will at the same time be efficient and
give least trouble in laying and in maintenance?
Electric light people must not expect the roads and
streets of a town to be given up to their tender
mercies for any length of time. We have heard
many absurd remarks as to the requirements of
borough engineers or surveyors who watch over
the interests of the corporation, but in the
matter of laying of mains many such engi-
neers could give valuable information. Exhibitors,
as a whole, have not thought the question
of mains of sufficient importance to show
actual examples, but the exceptions, Messrs.
Crompton and Messrs. Siemens, have short lengths
of mains as they suggest mains should be laid.
Where corporations become their own undertakers,
they will attempt to obtain that system which
conforms closest to their views in not at any time
interfering much with ordinary street traffic. Messrs.
Siemens should have the benefit of the results at
Bradford. Deputations should insist upon authori-
tative information. This can undoubtedly be forth-
coming, and if, as we presume, it^is quite satisfactory
may largely influence the use of armoured cable, and
TfiE tLtOrmOAL ENGINEER, t'EB&UARt 26, 189^. 205
a simple trench with no provision for hauling out a
cable for repairs. It may be much cheaper and
better in all respects to follow such a system when the
conditions are favourable, than to use a more costly
one. Messrs. Crompton, again, have the experience
obtained at Kensington and elsewhere, and should
be able to show under what circumstances the
naked copper strips and concrete channel is best.
Sufficient time has not passed to hope to obtain
authentic statistics as to the faults which develop in
electric light msdns. It is absolutely certain, how-
ever, that faults do and will occur, and the repair of
these will become one of the recognised duties of cen-
tral station work. The initial cost of lajring the mains
must be considered in connection with their main-
tenance, for though one way may be cheaper than
another, the tables may in time be turned and the
dearest become the cheapest, through cost of main-
tenance. Our advice, then, to deputations is to get all
the information possible on this subject. It is
almost entirely a matter of business, and
requires little scientific knowledge. Of course
the decision as to the system of distribution
and the calculation of the size of mains
is another matter. Each deputation will have a
definite object ia view, probably the lighting of a
particular town. They will be able to give approxi-
mately the area to be lighted ; the class of lighting —
residential, factory, or street ; the position at which
a central station might be put ; the consumption of
gas in the district ; the cost of gas and its quality.
They will expect in return some fairly definite infor-
mation as to what could be done with electric light,
the unit of power to be employed, the kind of prime
mover to be employed, the kind of dynamo, and the
reasons therefor. The more information these
deputations can obtain, the better able will they
be to convince their fellow-townsmen of the
advantages of electric lighting. It may not be
amiss to warn exhibitors to make it quite clear
as to which are their exhibits and which not. Even
now there are arc lamps and arc lamps. Visitors will
not fail to recognise this, and those that are so-so,
must belong to the right owners. The Machinery
Department contains some widely divergent types of
prime motor, an exceedingly interesting display, as
are also the combinations of engine and dynamo.
Much of the work of next winter will depend upon
the impressions received now.
CORRESPONDENCE.
" One man's word U no man's word
Justice needs that both be heard.
{.
CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
Sir, — On revisiting the Electrical Exhibition at the
Crystal Palace, I was surprised to find how greatly it had
improved. Everything is now in full swing. The spirit
of emulation seems to be spreading amone the exhibitors,
for if one has a pump or big accumulator, or even a
crane, another exhibitor must have one like it or bigger,
if possible. The result is that most of the stands are
getting crammed with interesting objects, although in one
case the fascinating smiles of the charming maiden who
presides over the Hedgehog more than compensates for
the paucity of the exhibit
I notice that anything that makes a noise or goes round
is sure to attract. When the young gentleman in charge
switches on the field current to the Kingdon alternator and
makes it roar, a crowd collects immediately, and two
minutes after the electric crane starts you cannot get near
it. The telephone-room is doing a tremendous business,
and it is very interesting when the organ is not playing,
and altogether, what with the awful diver that frightens the
children at one end, the awfuller choir that frightens the
old ladies at the other, all visitors seem thoroughly pleased
with the evening's entertainment. — Yours, etc., X.
THE LIFE OF INCANDESCENT LAMPS.
Sir, — You always take such a strong interest in all
practical questions that I am tempted to trespass on your
space in order to ventilate one that has been perplexing
me a great deal lately, and that is, the short duration of
Edison-Swan incandescent lamps. From a little enquiry
I have made, I am led to believe that other electrical
engineers have been also noticing this during the last few
months, and it would be most valuable if through your
courtesy opinions could be exchanged on this point. In
plain wordfs, is it or is it not the case that lamps are not
standing as they used to do ? To those engagea in instal-
lation work this is a serious question, as nothing disgusts a
customer more than, after having gone to a certain expense
in an installation, to find that he is obliged almost every
week to be putting in one or more new lamps. It may be
that my recent experiences are unique, but I don't think
so, and, at all events, should be grateful to any practical
men with large opportunities of judging who would give
their views. — Yours, etc., Expkctans.
Feb. 23, 1892.
ELECTRIC TRAMWAYS.
Sir, — In your issue of the 19th iust. you publish the first
instalment of a paper by Mr. W. G. Carey, on " Electric
Tramways on the Overhead or Trolley Wire System," and
we shall be obliged by your giving us space to reply to
some of his remarks in regard to the u6e of conduits in
lieu of overhead wires for tramway traction. Mr. Carey
remarks " that it cannot be doubted that many of the com-
munities are deterred from adopting it [electric traction] only
by their prejudice against overhead wires," and at the same
time his paper endeavours to show that no other method of
electric traction on tramways is practicable. His eondem-
nation of conduits is wholesale and complete, but we venture
to think scarcely accurate. He considers there is litUe
reason to hope that " an open-slotted conduit could ever be
made a success in our streets, its fatal weakness being the
impossibility of keeping the conduit free from mud and
water." As a matter of fact successful conduits have
been constructed and worked — for instance, at Blackpool
and in Budapest, as well as at Northfleet, where a
conduit line was built which was absolutely satisfactory
both mechanically and as regards the question of inter-
ference through mud and water. Perhaps, however,
Mr. Carey prefers to confine himself to the American
failures, where, he says, ''thousands of pounds were
expended on four practical experiments." We have seen a
sample of the conduit that has been used in American
attempts, and if this was a fair example of the four practical
experiments we are not at all surprised at their being
absolute failures. We agree with Mr. Carey as to the
importance of proper provision being made for keeping the
conduit free from wet and dirt, but we do not admit that
this presents any insuperable difficulty. The conduit
system which we advocate where overhead wires are not
permitted has special provision in regard to keeping the
conduit clean, in addition to other improvements, and how
far we have succeeded in this direction is, we think, fairly
well indicated by the remarks which occurred in your issue
of April 25, 1890, in regard to our system, where, after
pointing out the requirements in underground conduits, you
were g^xl enough to say : " AU these paints are obtained in
the new system tnth no chance of stoppage through mud or dirt"
We recognise the advantages of the overhead system of
traction, and, as engineers and not contractors, recommend
it, where permissible, on account of the somewhat smaller
^06 tflE fiLEOtRICAL fiNGlNSlER, I^EBUUARY 26, 189^
capital involved, but we protest against a statement that,
apart from this increased capital cost, equally good results
cannot be secured by the use of an efficient conduit system.
No doubt Mr. Carey, from his connection with the
Thomson-Houston Company, desires to cry up his wares
and to depreciate other methods of traction, but he should
surely have some regard to facts, although they are
doubtless inconvenient to him. — Yours, etc..
Waller and Manville.
Victoria-street, Westminster, S.W.,
February 22, 1892.
A CORRECTION.
Sir, — Respecting your article under the heading of
" Woodhouse and Kawson '* in your issue of Feb. 12, we
bee; that you will kindly correct remarks made in same
which carry a false impression with regard to our work —
namely, that the model of the electric launch referred to is
a model of the " Glow-worm," which was built by us for
Mr. Andrews Pears, and not by the Thames Electric and
Steam Launch Company ; and also that we have no con-
nection whatever with the Thames Electric and Steam
Launch Company, which your article might lead readers to
infer. We should be obliged by your kindly inserting this
contradiction in your next issue. — Yours, etc.,
WOODHOUSE AND RaWSON UNITED, LIMITED.
88, Queen Victoria-street, E.C.,
February 18, 1892.
PRACnCAL INSTRUHENTS FOR THE MEASURE-
KENT OF ELECTRICITY.
BY J. T. NIBLETT AND J. T. EWEN, B.SU.
IV.
(CoiUinued frmn page 150,)
Measurement of Electeical Resistance.
Having now briefly described the several electrical units,
and ascertained the nature and characteristics of electrical
resistance, we shall proceed to describe and illustrate the
different methods used for determining tlie resistances of
various substances, and the forms of apparatus usually
employed in these measurements. Current indicators such
as simple detectors and zero instruments play a most impor-
tant iiart in these determinations, but as the description of
these comes naturally under the head of current-measuring
instruments, we shall merely briefly refer to them here,
leaving the full description of their construction, and the
theoretical considerations involved in their manufacture,
until current detectors and zero instruments are being
considered.
Resistance of Conductors, — Before commencing to determine
accurately the resistance of a conductor, it is advisable to
ascertain whether this resistance is likely to be a high or a
low one. Perhaps one of the best methods for determining
approximately the resistance of a conductor is that known as
the Svhstitution Method, This method can be used either with
or without the assistance of a shunt ; in the former case it is
usually designated the Simple Svhstitution Metliod, and in the
latter, the Shunt Substitution Metlwd. For either of these two
methods, the necessary ap|>aratus is : a sensitive galvano-
meter, such as a Thomson reflecting, a d'Arsonval, or a
Deprez; one or two low-resistance battery cells, capable of
giving out current without material variation of potential,
such as the well-known Daniell cell, or preferably cells of the
lead secondary type ; a variable known resistance, which may
be in the form of a box containing calibrated resistances, a
metre bridge, or a graduated rheostat ; and a suitable contact-
maker. If a variable known resistance is not available, an
unvariable one, such as a coil of wire whose resistance is
known, may be used instead, as explained. A convenient
arrangement of the apparatus for measurements by the
Simple Substitution Method is illustrated diagrammatically
in Fig. 1.
Having fitted up the apparatus as shown with the resist-
ance to be measured, R, in circuit, note the deflection of
the galvanometer on the completion of the circuit. Now
remove the unknown resistance, R, and substitute for it
the variable known resistance, R^, and so regulate it that,
on again completing the circuit, the galvanometer needle
gives exactly the same deflection as before. This now indi
cates that the resistance of the whole circuit is just equal to
that in the former case, so that the resistance shown by R^
must be the same as R, the resistance being determined, or
R = Ri.
r
GolvoporpeliEt
Balliry
CoplocP rpoikcr
Fig. 1. — Simple SubstitatioD Method.
This arrangement can also be employed when the known
resistance, R^, is not variable, if the scale of the galva-
nometer is accurately calibrated. For this purpose the
resistance, Rq, of the galvanometer, and Rb, of the battery
must be known.
Then if (2 be the galvanometer deflection when the
unknown resistance, R, is in circuit,
and d^ be that with the known resistance, R^ ;
since, by Ohm*s law, the whole resistance of the circuit
in each case is inversely proportional to the current flowing,
and therefore to the galvanometer deflection, we have —
R + Jio + Rb . ^1
Rj -I- Ro -I- Rb d
and /. R = 4 (1^1 + I^ + I^b) - (Ro + Rb).
a
Usually, in measuring resistances by this method, the
internal resistance of the battery employed is but the
fractional part of an ohm, while the resistance of the gal-
vanometer would probably be some hundreds of ohms, si>
that the former is negligibly small in comparison with the
latter. Then, instead of the foregoing formula, we may
write:
R = ^ (R^ -H Ro ) - Ro.
a
For measurements by the Shuifd Substitution MetJiod, the
apparatus is arranged ^a indicated in Fig. 2.
I
C
GalvapofptlTr
Fiu. 2. — Shunt Sabstitation Method.
In this case the resistance to be measured, R, is connected
up as a shunt to a sensitive high-resbtance galvanometer,
which forms part of a circuit in which are also a single
voltaic cell and an added high resistance, as shown. It will
be seen from this arrangement that the actual current
flowing through the galvanometer and shunt together will
be very smaU, and that most of this current will flow
through the shunt itself, owing to its own resistance being
low, relatively to that of the high-resistance galvanometer.
Owing to the high resistance in the main circuit, any altera-
tion in the shunt itself makes very little difference to the
total current passing through the shunt and galvanometer
together, its cluef effect being simply to proportionally vary
the amount of this current which flows through the galva-
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBBUARY 26, 1898. 207
Qometer, bo tliat the reading of the galTanometer is really
a measure of the resistance of the ahnnt.
Thns, if (f be the galTanometer deflection when the
unknown resiatauce, R, conatitntes the
shunt,
and (fj be that when the known resistance, R„ is
substituted for it :
then we have —
R d
and."
E.R,.^l
ELECTRIC TRAHWAYS ON THE OVERHEAD OR
TROLLEY WIRE SYSTEM.*
BY W, QIBSON CAJtIY.
fCorUimud from page 188.)
Three methods of lupporting the trolley wire are punued
depending upon the position of the tracks in the roadways.
By far the luoit common of these is what is known as the
" span-wire " system, in which the poles are planted at the
4dge of the footpath on either side of the street, and the
trolley wire hung from a span wire stretched between
them. On suburban roads where ornamentation ib not
neceasary, wooden polM are usually used as, in the United
States at least, they are far less expensive, and the insula-
tion which they interpose between the trolley and the
ground is an additional safeguard against accidenta. In
city streets, however, the use of wooden poles, which must
of necessity be larger and more unsightly, is rarely
allowed, and iron poles of various designs, often very
handsome and ornamental, are used. The best of these
are made of three sections of tubing, of about 6in., 6jn.,
and 4in. diameter respectively. They are firmly bedded
6ft. deep in concrete, and must be strong enough to stand
the lateral strain of the span wire without a greater deflection
than Gin. at the top. Into the top of the pole is fitted a
wooden plug boiled in paraffin and protected by a cast-iron
cap. This serves to insulate the span wires from the
ground. The span wires should be of \o. 5 galvanised
steel, and where an uncommon strain occurs two of these
may bo advantageously twisted together into a cable.
The method of putting; up span wires is as follows : One
end of the wire is securely fastened to an eye-bolt in the
insulator at the Up of the pole by means of an American
telegraph splice, or one of the many B|>ecial devices made
for the purpose. The other end is then carried to the top
of the opposite pole and the two poles are pulled together
by means of a block and fall, or by a ratebet hauling clamp,
until there is a strain on the span wire of 8001b. or 9001b.
The span wire is then made into the eye-bolt on the second
pole in the same manner as on the other. It is absolutoly
necessary that thisapparantly great strain should be put upon
the span wire, or otherwise it will have a sag when the weight
of the trolley wire comes upon it, which is fatal to a neat
appearance of the line. The hangers or supporting devices
used vary greatly in design to meet the requirements of
special cases, but too much stress cannot be laid upon the
importance of making them of ample strength. It is
important, also, that all hangera and insulators should be
made with regard to uniformity. The only part liable to
deterioration is the insulators. These should therefore be
made of a standard pattern, and the hangera arranged for
their reception. In this way any fault can at once be
remedied at a trifling cost The bangers are placed in
position by means of a plumb-bob, and should be eo
arranged that the trolley wire will come as nearly as
possible over the centra of the track throughout its
entire length. Un curves the chords, where possible,
should be made so short) that the trolley wire
is in no place mora than a few inches out of the
eeatre. mien the hangers are in position, the trolley
wire is atretehed loosely uong and hung temporarily from
the span wireA, and then puTled up tight by means of a
* Paper read before the Vaj»\ Engiiwers.
block and fall. Luga, faiown aa ears, viUi a groove milled
out along the bottom side to fit the wire, are then soldered
on to the trolley wire beneath the span wires. These eara
are arranged for the reception of an insulated bolt, the
head of which is held firmly in the hanger, and the trolley
wire is thus securely fastened to the span and thoroughly
insulated therefrom. We have now between the trolley
wiro and the ground the insulation in the hanger itself,
which may be of ebonite or moulded mica, and the
wooden plug in the top of Uie pole. This is, in actual
practice, so perfect that even in very wet weather the
insulation resistance will be not leas than 19,000 to
20,000 ohms per mile. It will he readily understood
that no rule can be laid down for the design of the
overhead wiring. The length of the B[»ns of the trolley
wire, the position of the poles, span wires, and pull-ofih,
etc., must be designed to suit each special case, and unless
this is most carefully done troubles from brealnng wires or
unsatisfactory working of the trolley is sure to follow. On
single-track roads, with passing places, frogs of various
design are used. These are so made that the trolley will
automatically folio* the wire, and needno attention wliatever
from the conductor of the car. Whero necessary, supple-
mentaiy feed-wires are carried either on the poles, or,
preferably, in armoured cables laid underground and con-
nected at intervals to the trolley wire.
As has been said, no rule can be laid down for the
distance between the poles, but this should in no caae
exceed 126ft. Un suourban roads, where the track is
principally straight, this distance can be pretty closely
adhered to, but upon curves and city streete it must often
be considerably reduced, averaging usually from 100ft.
to 120ft. In the case of double-track roade, where
the width of street permits, the tracks may 1m
laid further apart than is usual, and poles planted
between them. This is certainly by far tie handsomest
method of overhead construction. In the first place, it
permita the use of only half the number of poles that would
be necessary with the span-wire system, and it does away
altogether with the necessity for spin wires. The poles
where this system is carried out may also be used for arc
or incandescent lighting of the streets. The trolley wire is
supported by brackets extending over the track on either
side of the pole, and the feed-wires may be carried as usual
on the poles, although an underground system of feedera is
preferable. On suburban tramways running along country
roads, the track is usually laid on one side of the road, and
in that case a system of bracket suspension should always
be carried out. If the line is single, the poles may be
planted along the side of the track, and the trolley wire
supported from single brackets, as in the case of centre-
pole suspension.
Owing to the greater weight of the electric car, and to
the fact that the power is applied to the wheels and not to
a draw-bar, the permanent way, where electricity is used,
must be of a more substential character than is usually
considered necessary in cases of animal traction. No
girder-rail weighing leas than 651b. to the yard should
ever be used. The necessity for absolute thoroughness in
track construction cannot be too strongly ezprrased, for
cheap and careless work here will entail, not only continual
repaira to the track itself, but a rapid deterioration of the
rolling-stock, and an increased coal bill. This fact is so
evident that it would appear hardly necessary to refer to
it, and yet there are scores of roads in operation to^ay
whose dividends are continually reduced by expenses trace-
able directly to faulty track construction.
A most important part of electric tramways is the
thorough bonding of the rail*, in order to secure a
low resistance in the return circuit. In the first place,
a supplementary return wire should in every case be
laid along the track and efficiently connected to every
length of rail throughout the road. The vast importance
of this is not even to-day thoroughly reccw;nised by very
many tramway companies, but it is certain that any neglect
in this direction will in every oase mean undue loss of
power on the line. No rule for track-wiring can be laid
down that will suit every case, but in genual it may be
said that a wire at leaat as large as the trolley wire should
be used to supplement the conductivity^ of the rails, and
208 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 26, 1892.
that the latter should be efficiently grounded at several
points throughout the line by means of copper or iron
plates of large superficial area buried at points where they
will be always in moist ground. The number of these
grounds wiu depend largely upon local conditions,
and upon the effectiveness of each. Advantage should
be taken of every opportunity for connecting to gas
or water pipes. The most important of these grounds
is at the power station, and here too much care
cannot be exercised. The cross-section of the wire con-
necting the track to the power station should be as great
as that of all the feed-wires leaving the station. The
chemistry of the soil must decide what is the best material
to be used for bond wires, but in most cases copper, on
account of its higher conductivity, is preferable. Experi-
ments in some places have shown that galvanised iron is
less liable to corrosion, but, where possible, copper should
always be used, and should in every case be thoroughly
tinned. The bond wires are firmly keyed to the rails in
holes drilled for the purpose by means of channel pins, and
also soldered strongly to the main track return. Several
methods of bonding the rails have been used^ but in any
case good workmanship is of the utmost importance.
Turning now to the power station, we find certain in-
dispensable features which were almost unknown in central
stations until the advent of the electric car. The electric
tramway may be said to be responsible for the high-speed
power steam engine. It is important that the units of
power in a generating station should be as large as is con-
sistent with the safe operation of the road, and that each
unit should be entirely independent of all the others.
These requirements can best be met by the use of direct-
belted engines, and there can be but little excuse for
the employment of countershafting except, in the case of
enormous roads, where very large engines may be used,
without a risk of a great percentage of the total power
being disabled in the case of accident. In such cases large
economical engines of the Corliss type belted to counter-
shafting may ad vantageously be used, in the great West End
power station at Boston, which, when completed, will have
amaximum output capacity of 26,000 h.p.,this plan has been
adopted, and great economy secured by the use of 2,000-h.p.
engmes. The tendency, however, is towards the use of larger
dynamos, and direct belting, or even direct coupling, at the
cost of a sacrifice of weight efficiency, the economy of
space effected thereby being an additional reason foi the
move in this direction.
The severity of the service imposed upon engines in
tramway work, which is perhaps only equalled by certain
work in rolling-mills, as well as the increased speed
required for direct belting, necessitates extra heavy con-
struction, bearings of greater size and length, and more
ample flywheel capacity. The failure of builders to fully
appreciate the conditions which the work imposed has been
responsible for troubles, in many cases, which have tended
to bring high speeds into disrepute. The excellent auto-
matic engines that are now turned out by several manu-
facturers are, however, quite as reliable as other types,
having been built especially for the work they are expected
to do. Experience in every class of work has taught us
the cost of poor steam engineering, and the tramway
company which puts in inadequate apparatus will soon
find itself in the interestine; position of having to put up
with exorbitant operating expenses, or else rebuild its
entire plant. Where possible, and water can be had, com-
pound condensing engines should always be used. There
are very few places where coal is so cheap that 40 per cent,
of the coal bill would not pay the interest on the difference
in cost between compound condensing and single-cylinder
engines.
Other things being equal, the tandem form of compound
engines is to be preferred on account of its smaller number
of moving parts. Where the cylinders are placed side by
side, two sets of working parts are required, double the
risk of breakage encountered, more oil used in lubrication,
and more power expended in overcoming the friction in the
engine itself. Another great point in favour of the tandem
engine, especially in tramway work, is that on light loads,
the low-pressure cylinder of the double engine, on account
/xf the early cut-off, will receive comparatively little steam
as exhaust from the high pressure. There will be, there-
fore, no compression in the low-pressure cylinder, and a
pounding and loosening of all working parts will ensue.
This difficulty is entirely avoided in the tandem engine,
both pistons being on one rod, and the high-pressure always
cushioned. The governor must be quick-acting and yet
not too sensitive, and the variation in speed between no
load and full load should be within 2 per cent at the
outside, and it is quite possible with engines operating at
from 200 to 250 revolutions per minute to do even better
than this. This close regulation can only be obtained
by the allowance of very great flywheel capacity, and
in some of the engines now built for tramway work
the flywheels alone weigh nearly as much as the lighter
engines of equal powers complete. With this class
of engine, in which the driving wheels are from 6ft.
to 7ft. in diameter for sizes of from 100 h.p. to 300 kp.,
the engines and dynamos should be set not less than 20ft.
apart between centres, and even somewhat greater dis-
tances than this are advisable where space is not of great
importance. Jockey pulleys are an abomination, and tight
belts, especially with varying loads, are a source of endless
trouble, and besides this, the elasticity of long belts which
can be run very loose is an aid to the governor, second only
in importance to heavy flywheels. In calculating the
steam power required, an allowance of 20 per cent, above
the rated power of the dynamos should be made in order
that a constant speed may be maintained under momentary
excessive loads. On a properly-designed generating plant
these unusual loads will not be of more than a few seconds
duration, but it is a bad practice to have your engines
constantly working up to their maximum capacity.
Of boilers little need be said. The opinions of engineers
differ greatly as to which type is most suitable for tramway
requirements, and examples of each class are found, showing
under careful management an economy with which no fault
can be found.
The question of generators is one that is closely allied to
that of the engines, and in discussing the latter reference
was made to the tendency towards larger machines which
present tramway practice shows. It must be understood,
however, that this applies only to the case of large installa-
tions, and must not be carried to such a point that an
accident at the station will cause a shortage of power on
the line. Reserve power in the generating station is of
the utmost importance, and the units should be of such a
size that this reserve can be economically provided. Many
years' experience in direct-current incandescent lighting,
which, as far as the generators are concerned, differs
but little, except in the matter of voltage, from tramway
work, has paved the way to the production of dynamos
whose reliability soems to be all that can be desired.
Future development will probably be in the direction of the
production of larger slow-running multipolar machines
which will lend themselves to direct coupling, but the
generator of to-day is by far the most perfect feature of
tramways installations. It is imperative for the satisfac-
tory operation of the motors that a constant difference of
I)Otential should be maintained on the line under all con-
ditions of load, and to this end the generators must be
compound wound and perfectly self-regulating. An KM.F.
of 500 volts is universally used in the United States. It is
desirable, in order to avoid carrying enormous currents, that
the KM.F. employed should be as high as practicable, and
this figure has been adopted as well within the limit of
safety. The arrangement of the switchboard should be
such as to give the utmost flexibility in the operation of the
station, and to allow the instant cutting out of any par-
ticular machine or the transfer of the load from one
machine to another.
(To be continued,)
Rheumatism and Eleotrioity.--Mr. Origg, of 33,
Eastbourne-terrace, W., has a medical institute where
electricity is applied successfully, we are told, to the relief
and cure of rheumatism, and we are in receipt of some
testimonials there anent. Rheumatism is a'ddorous and
elusory complaint ; let us hope electricity has some effect
in dislodging this enemy of mankind.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 26, 1892. 209
SOME EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATIONS OF
ALTERNATE CURRENTS*
BY ALEXANDER 8IEMENU.
{Concluded from page 189. )
As materials are important items in the cost of a transformer,
the consideration of the first point shows the desirability of
employing a strong induction. A similar conclusion will be drawn
from the mveetigation of the relation between the induction and
the drop of difference of potential in the secondary circuit of the
series of transformers. As they are all supposed to give the same
current, the drop from no load to full load will be in proportion to
the resistance of the circuit. This resistance is in proportion to
the weiffht of copper employed, as all the transformers are
assumed to be wound with wire of the same diameter. The curve
(8) giving the weight of copper at different inductions will there-
fore also indicate, in comparison with the normal transformer, the
variation in the drop of ix>tential between no load and full load
under the same circumstances.
In order to determine the variation of the efficiency of the
transformers under investigation, it is necessary to treat sepa-
rately the losses in the iron and in the copper. The former can
be found by the aid of the curves on Diagram L, in combination
with the curve giving the weight of iron necessary at the various
inductions. An example will oest illustrate how this loss is ascer-
tained in a case where the total mass of the iron is worked at the
same induction, produced by a current of a frequency equal to 100
complete periods per second, the iron mass being composed of
1 mm. wires. The loss in the normal transformer working with
an induction B= 5,000, and with a weight of iron = lcwt., is 309*6
watts, according to Diagram I. For another transformer working
with an induction B = 2,500, the weight of iron, as shown by the
curve (7), has to be increased to 2cwt. ; at the same time the loss
uer cwt. is reduced to 126*8 watts, or the total loss is reduced to
253*6 watte.
In a similar manner the losses for the different inductions have
been calculated, and the results are embodied in a curve (9),
which indicates that the loss of energy in the cores of transformers
increases with the strength of induction, at first rapidly, but after
the induction has reached a value of B = 1,000 the increase is very
slow. As far as the loss of energy in the iron goes, it is therefore
of not much consequence what induction between 1,000 and 5,000
lines per square centimetre is used. The influence of the strength
of inauction on the loss of energy in the copper can be shown
in the simplest manner by comparing this loss in the normal
transformers designed for 5,000 lines with the loss in the other
transformers of the series.
There are evidently three possible cases for the normal trans-
former. The loss in the copper may be equal to the loss in the
iron, or it may be greater, or it may be less. For each of these
cases a curve can be plotted showing the sum of the losses
in the iron and in the copper at the corresponding induction.
If we take, for instance, the case that the losses in copper
and in iron are equal, the total loss in the transformer havmg
an induction B= 5,000, is 2x309*6 watts. For the trans-
former having an induction B= 2,500, the loss in the iron is
given in our curve 9, and the loss in the copper is in propor-
tion to its weight, which varies in accordance with curve 8, or in
this particular case, the loss is = »J2 x 309*6 watts. In this wav
curve 11 has been plotted for the case of the losses bein^ equal,
curve 10 represents the case where the loss in the copper is eaual
to two-thirds of the loss in the iron, and curve 12 wnere the loss
in the copper is 50 per cent, greater than the loss in the iron.
Taking tnese curves to represent generally the variation of the
total loss at the various inductions, it appears that, when keeping
the loss in copper small in comparison with the loss in iron, it is
c^uite possible to obtain about the same efficiency with any induc-
tion between 2,000 and 5,000 lines per square centimetre, but if a
lower Induction is used the efficiency, even on full load, decreases
very rapidly. From the consideration of efficiency it is, therefore,
desirable to work the transformer with a high induction, and it is
only the question of the heating of the apparatus which imposes
restrictions on the use of high inductions, to avoid the destruction
of the insulating material. In other words, the problem was to
find the maximum internal temperature of a body of known
dimensions, when the rate at whicn its mass is heated has been
determined.
In order to obtain some data towards the solution of this problem,
a solenoid was constructed by winding! 81b. of insulated iron wire,
2*4 mm. in diameter, on a brass tube 300 mm. long, 8 mm. internal
diameter, and provided with flanges at the ends each 100 mm.
diameter. The internal temperature was measured by means of a
thermometer just fitting the brass tube, and due care was taken
to keep the temperature of the surrounding air constant daring
the experiments. A constant direct current was semt through the
ooil, and a reading of the thermometer was taken after it had
ceased rising. The rate at which energy was supplied to the coil
was determined bv the product of the square of the current into
the resistance of the coil, measured when the equilibrium of tem-
perature had been attained.
By varying the current the internal temperature could be
Tarfod, and the results were plotted in curve 13, the abeciBSce of
which represent the cooling surface in sauare centimetres per watt
disiipatecl, and the ordinates indicate tne excess of the internal
temperfttore of the coil over the temperature of the surrounding
^ Pkper read before the Institution of Electrical Engineers,
February 11, 1892.
air in degrees centigrade, after the equilibrium between the
supply and the dissipation of energy had oeen established in each
case. This curve is a rectanguuir hyperbola of the equation,
xy = 1,500, and it shows that u the temperature of such a coil is
to be kept at lOOde^. C, the cooling surface should be 15 square
centimetres for each watt converted into heat in the coil. It is
self-evident that this curve (13) relates only to the coil by the aid
of which it was constructed, and that it can only serve as a guide
under strictly similar circumstances. By way of comparison a set
of experiments were made on the same lines with a cable trans-
former, hung up in air, six metres long and 9*5 cm. in diameter,
the internal temperature of which was determined by means of a
test wire, as described above. This curve (14) shows that for an
internal tem|>erature of lOOdeg. C a cooling surface of about 28
square centimetres has to be provided per watt of energy con-
verted into heat in the transformer.
Before it is possible to draw general conclusions as to the con-
nection between the internal temperature of transformers and their
cooling surface, it is obviously necessary to make a good many
more experiments in the direction indicatidd by the two curves just
described. Last year Dr. Fleming read a paper before this Insti-
tution on ** Some Effects of Alternating-Current Flow in Circuits
having Capacity and Self-induction " {Journal of the Institution
of Electrical Engineers, vol. xx.. No. 94, p. 374). It is, therefore,
not necessary to repeat here the results of some experiments which
were brought to the notice of the Institution at that time. A very
important factor in the construction of alternate-current apparatus
is the striking distance of these currents in various materials, as
this determines, in the case of high-voltage currents, the thickness
of the insulating material with which the conductors have to be
surrounded, the ohmic resistaoce being no guide. The first set
of these experiments referred to the striking distance in air. In
all the experiments made the fre(]uency of the alternate current
was 100 complete periods per second, except where another
frecjuency is specially mentioned, and the voltage was produced
by means of an alternate-current machine and a transformer, and
it was measured by one of Sir William Thomson's static voltmeters.
The electrodes were ropolished each time a spark had passed
between them ; one of tnem was fixed horizontally during the ex-
periments, while the other could be advanced towards it from
above by means of a micrometer screw which allowed of reading
to a hundredth of a millimetre.
The experimeiits were made in the following manner : After
connecting the electrodes of the spark micrometer to the terminals
of the transformer, a certain voltage was put on and accurately
measured ; the distance between the electrodes was then slowly
diminished until sparking occurred. Each experiment was repeated
at least three times. Various electrodes were experimented with,
the first pair being two plane parallel surfaces. In this case the
fixed horizontal electrode consisted of a polished brass disc about
100 mm. in diameter, while the movable electrode was also formed
by a brass disc, but only 37 mm. in diameter. To prevent the
action of sharp edges, the edges of the discs were rounded off. The
temperature of the surrounding air during these experiments was
14'75deg. C. The results obtained are as toUows :
Difference of Striking
potential. distance.
10.000 volte 4*80 mm.
12,000 „ 6*46
15,000 „ 10-23
Difference of Striking
potential distance.
2,000 volte 0 67 mm
6,000 ,, 2-53
8,000 3*60
The last reading, giving the striking distance for 15,000 volts,
cannot be correct, as the sparks started from the upper edge of
the smaller disc, and not from the nearest pointe between the two
discs, the smaller disc being placed above the fixed one. Curve 15
is the graphic representation of the above table.
For the next series the arrangemento were the same as before,
with the exception that the smaller movable disc was replaced by
a half -sphere of 10 mm. diameter. The temperature of the air
during these experimente was from 16deg. to 17deg. C, and its
humidity 80 per cent.
ft
*»
Difference of Striking
gotential. distance.
,000 volte 4-.37 mm.
12.000 , 5*65 „
14,000 , 7-32
15,000 , 9*02
ti
Difference of Striking
|)otontial. distance.
2,000 volts 0*45 mm.
4,000 „ 140
6,000 , 2-30
8,000 , 3125
These resulte are plotted in curve 16.
After this the movable electrode of the spark micrometer was
replaced by a steel point of an angle of 60aeg., ite section being
an equilateral triangle of 5 mm. sides. This point was also
repolished after each spark ; the spark, however, did not always
start from the point. During these experimente the temperature
of the air was 12deg. C, and ito humidity about 50 per cent.
Difference of Striking
potential. distance.
2,000 volte 0*40 mm.
4,000 , 1*26
6,000 „ 2*66
8,000 4*08
It
>>
ft
Difference of Striking
potential distance.
10,000 volte 5 78 mm.
12,000 , 7-60
14,000 „ 9*37
15,000 „ 10-70
ft
If
ft
Curve 17 embodies this table.
After this the influence of an alteration in the frequency was
tried by lowering this to 80 complete periods per second, and
repeating some of the first experimente with diso electrodes. The
striking aistanoes for 4,000 volte and for 6,000 volte under these
circumstances were found to be 1*47 mm. and 2*30 mm., or onW
slightly different from those produced by a frequency of 100
oomi^ete periods per second. From theoretiQal QQnald«R«l.^fiSfiak^^^
210 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 26, 1892.
might tuTfl bam expected that the dlBtonoee would vary direcBlr
as the frequencies.
In order to inveatigate the iaflaence of capacity, one or more
ooila of guttapercba-coTered wire were coonected to the circuit of
D parallel with the tpark micrometer. The first
•xperiinente were made with a frequent of 100 complete penode
per second, the two disc electrodes, anda capacity of b-113 jiicra-
larad. The temporalure of ttie air was lO'doeg. C, and ita
humidity 79 per cent.
Poteotial
difFerence.
4,000 volts
6.000 „
10,000 „
2-21
417
4-50
A farther eiperiment under similar conditions, but with a
capacity of 0 !8 microfarad in circuit, showed that the sparking
distance at 10,000 volte was further reduced bo 3-M mm. These
teste were repeated with other electrodes -viz., the spherical
surface and the disc. At a dittereuce of potential of lU.OOO volte
the sparking distance tamed out to he :
1. With 014 mt. capacity to circuit 408 mm.
2. Withoutnuy ,, ,, 4-30 „
3. WithO-14mf. „ 4-06 „
After that the steel point and th
capacity of 0-14 ml. being con
resulte were ;
eusedu
potential.
4,000 ¥olta 1-26
10,000 578 , 4-83 „
I to the fact that the sparkling die-
to a slight extent when capacity
comes into play. With a view of ascertaining how the voltage
la propagated along a circuit, the position of the micrometer
relatively to the cable was varied.
The experiments detailed above were mode with the spark
micrometer connected to the beginning of the cable ; they were
afterwards repented after ineerting the sparli micrometer in the
middle of the calite, and again after it haa been connected to the
end of the cable. In all three positions the same striking dis-
tanoe wag observed under similar circumstances, which tends to
G-ove that the voltage Is propaKated oniformlj over Ibe whole
Dgtb of coodoctor, even if there is capacity in some parts of
the oircait.
As stated above, the voltage eiperimented with was measured
by means of Sir William TBomson'B static voltmeters ; but it is
undoubtedly the highest ordinate of the wave which causes the
spark. This >' re^ " voltage can be found, if sine waves are
•asamed, by multiplying the measured volts by ^Ji, and these
Daw figures should be applicable Co constant continuous currents.
Id this way the results of curve 15 were corrected, and compared
with some results published by Warren da la Rue in N^aiure on the
12th September, ISTS. Assuming that the E.M.F. of his cells was
equal to 1-03 volts, and reducing his results to volts and milli-
metres, they compare as follows :
Difference of Striking distance,
potential. Warren de la Rue, Siemens.
2,000 volts 0-45 mm 025 mm.
4,0»0
6,000
15.i
1-45
8,000
10.000 ;;
On referring to the other curve* pu
it will be seen that Warren de la Rue found the sparking'
distances between two plane surfaces and between two spherical
surfaces not to differ very much from each other. It may.
therefore, be allowable to compare the mean values of these two
curves of his with curve 16 for the sporkine distance between a
-e and a plane surface after the values of the volte have
n multiplied with s/2.
Difference of Striking distance-
potential. Warren de la Hue. Siemens,
... 0-25 w
8,000
10,000
Both these tables show that the results
practically identical,
t the sacondar
used for the experiments is really
1 coneequentlv it may be concluded that the secondary
rent of the transform > • . >
(nnotion.
Some further experimente were mode with the same alternate-
corrent machine and transformer, and a frequency of 100 com-
~ ~ le the striking distance
difference*
were again meoaarea by Sir William Thomson's static volt-
meter, or, in the case of the higher ones, by bis volt balance.
0ns series of experiments, represanted by curve 18, was
made by connecting the terminal* of the transformer to the inner
and outer conductor of concentric cables, the insulation of which
oonaieted of impregnated fibrous material. The difference of
poteatial was then gradually and slowly rused until the insulation
gave way. Curve 18 really consists of two parts, the lower of
which was obtained by bresliiQg 36 short samples of cable, made
with varion* thick neeeee of the insulating material ; the upper
/MT^ sbovo 7j000 volts, was detarminod by breaking aotaal cablea,
not lees than 60 yoida in length, speoiaUy Dianafactured for theae
experiments.
The next series of experiments dealt with indiarubber insnlation,
bat results proved to be extremely irr^ular. although a curve (19)
ha* l>eea plotted which gives the minimum voltage at which
sparking occurred at the various thicknesseo.
The following table give* the details of the samples tested. Mid
under what voltage they broke down :
No. Thickness of indiarubber.
1. 4(Kn, of 880 H wire 3-6 mm., broke with 21,600 volte.
2. IOyds.of experimentolcore, 3'8mm. „ „ 20,000 „
3. It „ „ „ 2-5 mm. „ „ 16,000 „
4. I „ concentric cable.. 3'6mm. ,, „ 28,000 „
5.90 ,. No. 604 core .... 1-2 mm. „ „ 12,000 „
6. 40 „ ,,606 , 2-0 mm, „ „ 10,600 „
7. 50 „ „ 607 18 mm. „ ,. 18,200 „
8. 48 „ ■ ,,508 2-3 mm. „ „ 16,800 „
9. 5 „ „ 200 H 23 mm. „ „ 28,000 „
10. 1 ,, concentric cable.. 2-0 mm. „ „ 17,600 „
11. Indiarubber sheet 06 mm. „ „ 7,500 „
12. „ „ 1-0 mm. „ .. 10,600 „
13. Experimental piece of core 100 mm. ,, „ 38,000 „
The concentric cables were tested by connecting the transformer
to the two conductors ; the sheets were placed between tbe disc
and the spherical electrode. The core, when in short lengths, was
covered with tinfoil ; when long, it was immersed in water ; and
the terminals of the transformer were connected, the one to the in-
sulated conductor, the other to the water or the tinfoil respectively.
Another set of test* were Miada by placing calico on the disc of
the spark micrometer, and by connecting the other poletoacopper
brush, such as are used in dynamo machines, resting on the calico.
Several samples of calico were tried ; (a] thin csSco, 0-12 mm.
thick, not impr^nated I {b) eilexia calico, 015 mm, thick,
not imprwnated ; (c) thick calico, 0'30 mm. thick, not
impregnat^xl ; (d) thick calico, 0.10 mm. thick, inmr^nated.
All laaT samples required the same lowest difference of
potential— alxjut 700 volte— for a breakdown. Different spots of
the same sheet behaved very differently, some not breaking with
even 1 .000 volts ; but at least one spot could always t>e found
which broke down with 700 volts. Curve 20 gives the resulle
obtained with several layers of the impregnated thick calico.
Tbe layers were tightly preised together before being tested, and
the points of the curve give tbe minimum value of the voltage
which broke them down. Tbe last curve (21) reoords the sparldue
distance through celluloid, which wo* tested In sheets placed
between the two discs of the spark micrometer.
A good many of the high-tension experiments were made with a
specially constructed powerful cransformer, capable of giving at
its secondary terminals a current of two amperes under a pressure
of about 50,000 volts. This is now on view at the Crystal I'alace
Electrical E:ihibition, and various experiments are shown to
exhibit its qualities. Unfortunately, it is too heavy to t>e shown
in this Institution.
In conclusion, it should be mentioned that all the experimenlA
described in this communication were carried out at Woolwich, at
the works of Messrs. Siemen* Bros, and Co., mostly under the
immediate care of Dr. Baur. who was freely assisted by the heads
of the various departments whenever he encountered difficulties in
the course of his work.
CABLE-LAYING AT TANGIER.
" To the bte Sir William Kirby Green we are indebted tor
the electric cable that now connects Tangier with Europe." says
the Times correspondent at Tangier in an interesting article on
Morocco, "anil the history of the laying of this cable is amus-
ingly characteristic of Moorish stoudity. Havine obtained a
concession for the cable, Sir William was determined to have
the work commenced, but the Sultan was just a* determined it
■hould iiut be Uid. He first tried the plan so BUOCesBfal with
his own officers, and offered the British Minister a large sum of
money if he would undertake to have the cable cut when laid and
not allow it to be replaced. He was no doubt astonished when the
bribe was contemptuously refused, and then his Majesty tried
the plan of taking no notice of Sir William's letters requesting
permission to commence the work. After sending aeveru
respectful communications, and receiving no reply, the British
Minister gave notice to the Sultan that on a certain day the
work of laying the cable would commence, and accordingly
this was done. Of course it was very soon cut, but thi* was a
last expiring effort of obstruction, for a duplicate shore
•ud is now sunk deep in the saud, and the Moors,
as uaual, submit to the inevitable. At TanKier, how-
ever, electric communication ceaaes, and benind that
outlying port lies a vast region dork as night. When Sir W.
Kirby Green hod successfully laid the electric cable, the
Spaniards, wishing to show that they also could do aomethiog
for Morocco, got up a company to light Tangier by electricity ;
and hence you have the strange anomaly of the Soke, or lai^e
open market, with it* sea of ankle-deep black mud, lighted
throughout the whole length of iU rough-paved cauHway by
the electric light. Ebttremm meet in this place ; but, of ooDrae,
the company cannot pay, as there are no rate* or otjier muni-
cipal blessiiiga in Tangier, and the Moore are not likely to pay
voluntarily ^r what they do not want,"
Thb EliEOTtiiCAL Engineer, J-ebSuarY ae, i89-i. 2U
UTILISATION OF WATER POWER IN MADRAS.
It appenrB that oil completion of the Periyar pniject there
will b« HVftilable near Mudma, nt Kuruvanuth, an enormoua
amount of water power, aggregating in nil some 180,000 h. p.
The Madrnt MiiU has recentlj called attentiun to this fact, and
indicated the possibility of Berviiig Madras with light and power
from this source. After alluding to the expemuonta in trans-
niisaioa of power from Lauffen tu Frankfoi^, and Che proposed
trauamiuioii fron> Niugam to Chicajio, it Bays: "If we can
obtain the [xiwer for producing the electricity from waterfalls,
where the circumetances are favourable to the regular and con-
tinuiius generation of jioBer, and if the nature of the country
be Buch that the works necessary to utilise the power can be
cunstruct^d fur n niodemte amount, then the electric light can
be pruduceil at a cost with which no other illuminant can com-
pete. Moreover, the same currenta which pnvduco the light,
may, like gas, be used for heating purposes or for the produc-
tion of power. From a central station, therefore, electricity
might be made to flow all over the country, distributing heat,
power, and light.
"To return totho power available at Kuruvanuth on the com-
pletion of the Periyar project. Of the 180,000 li.p. which
oan be obtained ou the turbine shafts, 162.000 might be obtained
in the form of an electric current of 3,000 amperes and 43,000
volts dilTarence of potential. By using suitable conducturs, at
least 60 percent, of this power might bo made available at any
Soint within a radius of 400 miles, and we might therefore
Blivor not IcBB than 80,000 e.h.p. in Madras. Such an
enormous amouct of power could not be utilised here, and wo
might throw off branches from the main trunk line to the towns
of Periyakukm, Kodai-kanal, Madura, Trichonopoly, Tanjore,
Kumbakonam, Negnpatam, Cuddalore, Pondicherry, and
Chingleput. In all tVose towns, and in Madras itself, the
whole of the street lighting, and as much private lighting as
could be obtained, might be undertaken, and then there would
be a sufficient amount of power still loft to replace every steam
engine in the districts through which the mains would pass with
an electromotor. Electric lighting would, however, only be
required during a small part of the 24 hours of each day, and
during the rest of the time this vast aniouDt of power might be
used for an immense variety of purposes. In Madras we might
bave electric tramways. In many places lift irrigation by elec-
trically-driven pumps mtuht be economically introduced, and
electro-metallurgy, a branch of engineering as yet in its infancy,
would undoubtedly absorb all the power that could be spared.
" Naturally such great results could not be obtained without
an enormous capital expenditure, such as in this country there
is little hope of ever benig undertaken without the assist'ince of
Cioveniment. In America a company hits boon formed to
develop 125,000 h.p. at the Falls of Niagara, and that company
has appointed a commission of eminent engineers and
Bciontista to consider the quustion of how to bust generate
the power and transmit it to the places where it is
wanted. Here, in Madras, we have 160,000 h.p. availubk
under nearly as favourable circumstances, and we think
it would fall within the sphere of the operations of the
Government of this Presidency to appoint a somewhat similar
commission to report on the best methods of generating and
making use of the vast amount of water power which it is
possible to obtain in Southern India. During the last 55 years
84,000 lakhs of rupees have been expended, either directly by
the Government of India or by private companies under its
guarantee, in the construction of railways. This has been
tiocossary, because they are works of public utility which could
not well bo conatnicteil by unaided private enterprise, and on
the same grounds and for the same reasons we thmk it is time
that attention was drawn to the immense advantages to be
derived by the country at la^e for the utilisation of the
natural forces at our disposal. The vast beds of iron ore might
be utilised for the cheap manufacture of hiifh-ohiss iron by
moans of the water power at disposal. This will probably oSbr
the best field for the first attempts at the utilisation of water
power on a largo scale, "
ELECTRO-HARMONIC SOCIETY.
The next concert will be a ladies' night, on Friday. March 4th,
)89Z, at the St Jamea's Kail Keataiirant (Banquet -room), Kegent-
■treet, W., at eight o'clock. Artistes : VocalLits, Mrs. Alex.
Siemens, Mr. Ed. V. do Sejiundo, and Mr. Thoa. Harrison. Solo
iDstrumentaliste : Piano, Mr. Alfred Iznrd and Mr. Ed. C, de
B<«undo ; violin, Mr, T. E. Gatehouse. Orchestra ; First violins,
Miss Edith Uoughty, Mr. Hewlett, and Mr. T. E. fiawhouse
Sirinoipall: second violins. Mr. Dunn, Mr. Thornton, and Mr. 8.
ichardoon [principal) : viola, Mr. H. Gibson ; violoncellos, Mr.
WoitoandMr. Roger le due Bucknall (principal) ; cnntra-basso,
Mr. Brewer : piano, Mr. Alfred I/.ard ; Mostel organ, Mr. H. M.
HigK*- Aocompaniats, Mr. Alexander Siemens and Mr. Alfred
Ihu3, Mueioftl directors, Mr. T. E. Gatehouse and Mr. Alfred
Ixord. A Broadwood piano will be used. The MuBt«l organ
kindly lent by Messrs. Metxler.
pRoo BAM Mf.— Part I,
Overture " Mirella " .,, Gounod,
Orchestra,
Song " Be Silent, Love " Lawrence Kellie,
Mr T. H. Harrison.
Song " Weep you no more, sad fountains " Somervel,
Mrs Alex. Siemens.
Selection..." Minuet " from Handel's " Berenice " ...
Arranged by T. Best.
Orchestra.
Song "Du Fragst, mieh Ta^lich " E. Helmund.
Mr. Ekl. C de Segundo.
Organ Solo "Extempore .
Mr. H. M. Higes.
Song ''Mary of Argyle"
Mrs. Alex. Siemens.
Intermezzo " Cavalleria Rusticsna" MusoA^I.
Orchestra.
Part U.
Overture " Poet and Peasant " Sappe.
Orchestra.
Song " Der Nussbaum" Schumann,
Mrs. Alex. Siemens.
I'iano and Violin ..." Kreutzer Sonata" Beethoven.
Mr. A. Izard and Mr. T. E Gatehouse,
Song- ,. ...,,,.- " Hungarian Love Song " Roeckel
Mr. T. H. Harrison.
I'iano Solo "Polonaise" Chopin.
Mr. Ed C. deSegundo.
liong .." Die Mainacnt" Brahms.
Mn>. Alex. Siemens.
ViiL« " Arabian Nights" Strauss.
Orchestra.
PHYSICAL SOClETy -Feb. 12, 1892.
as read by tl
also the obituary notices of Prof. W. Weber, late lion, member,
Mr. W. G. Gregory, and Prof. .lames Croucli Adams. A list of
additions to the library accompanied the report.
Sr. X. Atklnaon read the treasurer's statement, showing again
of alxiut £140, Ou t)ie motion of the Freatdaut iha roiitfriE ofthe
council and of the treasurer were unanimously adopted.
Prof. Van der Waals was elected an hon. member of the society.
Prof. Belnold proposed a cordial vote of tbankii to the Lords of
the Committee of Council on Education for the use of the rooms and
apparatua in the Koyal College of Science. This waa seconded by
Prof. 8, P, Thompaoa and carried unanimously, A siiiiilai' vote
wad iiccorded to the auditors, Dr. Fison and Mr, H. W. Elder, on
the IT ■
a tollowinn „
President: Prof. G. F. Fitzgerald, M.A,, F,B.8.
Vice-presidents: Prof, A, W. Riicker, M.A., F.RS., Waller
Baily, M.A , Prof. O. J. Lodge, D.Sc., F.RS., Prof, S, P.
Thompson, D.Sc., F R.S. Secretaries : Prof. J. Perry, D.Sc,
r.R.8.. 31, Brunswick-«|uare. W.C , and T. H. BUkesley, M.A.,
M.I.C.E., Royal Naval College. Greenwich. Treasurer: Dr. E,
Atkinson, Portesbery Hill, Camberley, Surrey. Demonstrator:
C. Vernon Boys, F.K.S.. Physical Laboratory, South Kensington.
Oiher members of council: Shelford Bidwoll, M.A,, LL,B,,
F,R.S., W, E. Sumpner, D.Sc, Major-Genoral E, R. Festing,
R,E., F.R.S., J, Swinburne, Prof, J. V, Jones, M,A,, Rev, F, J.
Smith. M.A., Prof, W. Stroud, D.Sc, L, Fletcher, M A., F.R.S.,
CM, Whipple, D.Sc,, Jamee VVimshurst,
A vote of thanks to the otficers of the society was proposed by
Kr. Swlnlmrae, seconded by Mr, A, F. Trottw, and curried
unanimously.
The Cluilniikn then invited euggestions towards improving the
working of the society.
In rmponae. Prof. 8, P, Thompaon said that aa the society hod
been cstablitihed l-~> or Iti years, and had amply justified \te
existence, the time hud now arrived for giving fuller recognition
to the privilegoa of members. He thought they had earned the
right lo be callud " Fellows," and that this ought to t>e signified
by some distinctive title
Mr. J, SwlatniTDe suggested that before papers were brought
before the meetings they should be read by a member of the
council. If suitable, they should then be printed and proofs sent
to members who applied for them. Matnematical papers could
then be taken ae read, and the discusaions would b« more inte-
resting and to the point. It would niao be on advantage if com-
munications on kindred subjects could be taken the same day and
discussed toftether. Pajiers on purely technical subjects should go
to the technical aocietiea.
Prar. Ayttan, in reply to Mr. Swinburne, said the members
had the matter of papers in their own hands, for, as pointed
out in the rcfiort of the council, if they would only send in the
papers early enough, the secretaries would be elad to group
them in the way auggeatcd. Referring to Prof. Thompson^
remarks, he said he had often thought it would be an advantaue
to hate another class of members in the shape of "students," who
should hold meetings amongst themselves.
212 T^t ELECfRiCAL El^GIl^EER, t^EBltUAllY 26, 189^
J, k. P. Trott«r said the society was anique in many respects,
and thought it vras not desirable to have different f^ades of
membership.
Dr. C. V. Burton agreed with Mr. Trotter, and said that even
if Prof. Thompson's su^rgestion was adopted means should be
provided that persons could be admitted into the society without
claiming any distinction therefrom.
Prof. 8. P. Thompson, referring to the communications brought
before the society, said it was not necessary that all should possess
great novelty. Descriptions of new arrangements of apparatus,
of diagrams, and exhioits of modern instruments were of great
interest to members.
The Chairman pointed out that at the early meetings of the
society exhibitions of instruments were frequent, and said the
council would be glad if instrument makers would send apparatus
to be shown at any of the meetings.
The meeting was resolved into an ordinary science meeting, and
Messrs. W. R. Bower and E. Edsen were elected members ; after
which Prof. S. P. Thompson, F R.S., communicated a *' Note on
Supplementary Colonrs."
THE NATIONAL TELEPHONE SERVICE.
The London (Chamber of Commerce held a special general
meeting on Monday at Botolph House, Eastcheap, to consider the
state of the telephone service in the metropolis and elsewhere.
Sir Albert RoUit, M.P., chairman of the council, presided.
The Chairman, in opening the meeting, said that despatch was
an essential element of modem business ; the saving in time being
not only often the source of profit, but a chief means of cheapening
production and distribution. The perfection of communication
was of the greatest advantage to commercial classes, and it was
clearly to their interest to carefully watch the telephone Bills now
before Parliament. They should consider whether the fullest
development had been given under existing conditions, and
whether other nations obtained greater facilities, as his experi-
ence led him to believe. In America, for instance, long
trunk lines are in general use ; in France he had had the
opportunity of speaking from Paris to Marseilles, and no com-
munication coula be clearer. If it be the fact that England is
behindhand, we must seriously bethink ourselves of the cause. In
steam and other engineering we have long been in advance of other
Tiations, and we ought at least to be equcQ in telephone facilities to
other countries. As to cost, there seemed room for a very consider-
able improvement. With regard to induction noises, no very great
improvement over the original instrument was desirable, he
thought ; he had in his possession the second pair of telephones
ever brought into this country, presented by his friencf Prof.
Graham Bell, and their enunciation was as good as any he had
heard. He did not think that the difficulty with induction would
be got over until a more general use was made of a second or
return wire. This was a real necessity— it might add to the cost,
but efficiency was the first consideration. Then there was the internal
management of the operating staff— experience had shown abun-
dantly that it was bad ; latterly there had been some improvement,
and persons* tempers had not been tried quite so much. With regard
to tne Bills before Parliament, the question was whether com-
pulsory powers were to -be given to private trading companies, or
whether they should be exclusively under the Government State
Departments. Experience with the Post Office had led one to
conclude that wherever Government could be trusted to supply as
good a service as private companies, there was a great advantage
in so doing. If we could believe that the telephone service could
be conducted in a thoroughly efficient manner, and not, as was
the case in the Post Office, make the service primarily a source of
revenue to the country, but to devote the profit to increase of
efficiency, the performance of this duty should be undertaken by
Government. An efficient telephone service was not only impor-
tant directly in cheapening the cost of production, but indirectlv
in many branches of ousiness. Electrical engineering was a branch
which had by no means reached its limits ; many industries were
now dependent on electricity, and it should be noted that electrical
work was now the most progressive branch of science in this
country — it underlies every other trade. It is important the
public should be educated and given the greatest improvements.
This was to be done by technical education, but education would
be of little use for persons working in the shops if one could not
continually see progress in professional work. It was important
to England, in this age of competition, to maintain itself at the
head of the mechanical and scientific arts.
Mr. F. W. Rejmoldi moved a resolution, to the effect that the
Chamber should appoint a deputation to apply for an interview
with the Postmaster-General, and express the views of the Chamber
as to the supreme importance of the Government bringing a Bill
into Parliament dealing with the question of providing adequate
facilities for telephonic development throughout the country. It
was of extreme importance, ne said, to use all the facilities
possible at the present time, when we were severely handicapped
in all the markets of the world. In many cases, idso, it was not a
question merely of cost but of quick despatch, as in cases which
came before his own notice. Personally his experience with the
telephone was good— his was a private line — but ne heiurd constant
complaints from his friends and customers.
The motion was seconded by Mr. J. Martin.
Mr. Jackson asked as to we scope of the Bills before Parlia-
ment.
Sir Albert BoUlt read out the headings of the National Tele-
phone Company's Bill : To open or run over any public road, erect
posts, open or alter pipes, run lines over sewers or estuaries, place
and repair posts on private grounds with compensation to owner,
items as to compensation for ground taken, consent of local autho-
rities, restitution of roads, restrictions as to impeding traffic,
powers for stringing wires over private property, and so forth.
The New Telephone Company's Bill was for powers to enter into
and contract with authonties for running lines in, under, or over
every street or railway, etc., and was more permissi\'e and
contractual in its character.
Mr. J. Chambers said he failed to see the object of appealing
to the Postmaster-General. The two large companies nad put
their claims before the Chamber, and he considered the commercial
world would be better served b^ private enterprise. He moved
an amendment expressing an opmion that an efficient telephone
service could not be given to the metropolis unless statutory
powers were given to the companies.
Mr. Falthftill Begg seconded the amendment. The question
resolved itself into whether the national telephone service should
be carried out by the Post Office or by private enterprise. He
could quite believe the time would come when the telephone
service of the kingdom should be controlled by Government, but
at present he believed it far better to leave it in the hands of
private companies. Present evidence showed that, in spite
of the fact that the Post Office had established telephone
exchanges, they were left without any exchange of importance
(excepting, perhaps, Newcastle, though he did not acknowled^
this as really important) in the country, and not only so, but it
has been beaten oy private enterprise out of several towns. The
fact was the genius of the Department was not able to deal with
the exigencies, and it was not reasonable to leave it to the Post-
master to dev^op the industry. The National Telephone Company,
he said, ** had always carried economy on its banners " ; it had
commenced in the provinces, and had rapidly reduced the tariff to
£10, with the exception of the metropolis, where the difficulties
were so great — there was no other part of the civilised world where
so many difficulties could be encountered. He agreed the powers
should be hedged round, but if powers were granted to the electric
lighting industry, why not to the telephone ? He recommended the
deputation to go straight to Government and press for powers for
the private companies.
Tne Dnke of Marlberongh said that the question was one of
enormous importance to the community at large. Very few really
recognised yet what telephony actually was. We were accustomed
to send down to the post office and send off our telegrams, or to
ring up subscribers m our own town. But from Land's End to
John O'Groats, any firm of importance, any subscriber to the ideal
system, should be able to speak at once and in a few moments to
any other person, be he in Birmingham, Glasgow, or Manchester,
as one might speak into the next room. That is what telephony
meant ! He wished to put before the council this consideration—
that they were members of the Empire and taxpayers, and, there*
fore, the real owners of the tel^raph monopoly. If they allowed
the telephone to cut out the telegraph — as it undoubtedly would
eventually — what was going to happen ? Did they wish to lose the
immense sums of money invested in their telegraph service ? This
must be guarded against. The Post Office had natural possession of
the underground lines, and had no need of extra facilities. He would
suggest that the inter-town trunk lines should be in the hands of
the Post Office. No Bill could give power to a private company
as comprehensive as the Post Office already possessed, and it was
the duty of the taxpayers to keep these powers in their hands.
No doubt the Postmaster has put obstruction in the way year
after year, but he thought he should be revealing no parliamentary
confidence in saying that he knew that it was the intention of the
Postmaster-General to bring in a Bill of his own. What the terms
were he did not know further than that it would be a Government
Bill to give facilities for underground telephone wires. Also,
both the private Bills were to be opposed. He thought it would
be unfortunate if these Bills were opposed before the second
reading, as it would be to the interest of the public that evi-
dence should be called in Committee, and it might be advis-
able for the Chamber to bring their influence to bear and secure
this. He thought the laying and management of the tele-
phone trunk lines should be in the hands of (government. As
re^rded distribution of the telephone messages, he thought
this pcu't might be left in the hands of private companies —
if Government took over the trunk mains, and private com-
panies did the actual exchange work, this he thought would
prove the best for both taxpayers and private individuals. Par-
liament would never allow private companies to have general
powers over the country— it was against all precedent and the
reeling of Parliament. The electric lighting companies had no
general powers of this kind, but were under one general Act vested
in the Board of Trade. As regards tariff, no ooubt £20 was too
much ; £12 would be sufficient, and this would allow a complete
system of twin wires, which are absolutely necessary if a perfect
system is to be secured. Further, a great difference must be made
in the operating staff arrangements. With the present system in
force in London many persons would sooner not speak at all. It
should be perfectly possible to speak to six or seven persons in as
many minutes. Stul, bad as tiie present system was, it was ex-
tremely useful, and he recently had the instance of a patent agent
who avowed the telephone was worth £1,200 a year to nis business.
He urged the importance of the first resolution that a definite
expression of opinion should be obtained from the Postmaster-
General, whether the Government is going to give powers to
private companies is to bring in a Bill affording general powers.
Colonel Baynsfdrd Jaokson, chairman of therJational Telephone
Company, said that what his company wished to see was the
granting of statutory powers under whicn the telephone companies
TfiE ELfiCtRlCAL feNGlNfiER, J'EBJIUARY 26, 18&2. 2l3
oonld do their work. They do not ask for special powers for
themselves — the powers acc»rded to one should be accorded to
idL The great difficulty in their way was that of way-leayee. The
reason that the telephone was cheaper in other countries was
simply that it could oe worked cheaper. He had recently seen
Berlin exchange, where they had 17,000 subscribers, while London
oiUy had half that number. The exchange there is in the hands of
the Government, and no way-leaves are required. There are five
exchanges with connections for 6,000 each, and about 3,500 are
connected. The wires are run as the crow flies, and there are no
royalties to pay. In England they are saddled with a 10 per cent,
royalty ; where a mile of wire would be sufficient they had to
run 1^ miles. It cost them 30s. per subscriber for wav-leaves, and
the royalty came to £2 per subscriber, besides which they often
had to encounter great cost in movine the wires to circuitoas
routes if way-leaves were not accordea or were stopped. They
might reduce the subscription in London, but if they did, they
would be unable to cope with the increased demand from difficulty
with way-leaves, and they preferred to continue the hieh tariflf—
they simply could not connect up the additional wires. Keduction
of tariff could only come about by accordance of fuller powers.
They had now 22 exchanges scattered over a large area. These
they have connected with twin wires, which lessens the sound.
But it was only in last January, after two years' work, they
had succeeded in connecting an adequate number of wires. The
company recognised as well as anyone that metallic circuits are
necessary, but could not obtain the facilities. They had long
applied to the Commissioners of Sewers to allow them to put pipes
underground, but had been refused. This would have enabled
them to give twin wires at least to all the City subscribers, which
embrace two-thirds of the whole number connected— a long way
towards the complete metallic circuit. As soon as they received
powers that was the work they would at once undertake. Even now
they had done what they could, and Croydon, Sydenham, and
§Mt of Kensington has metallic circuits. It is not because they
o not choose, but because they could not — they did the best
they could under the circumstances. Still, as to the single
wire, he would point out that it does its work excellently
in many cases. All the exchanges in Austria, except that
of Vienna, are on single wires ; in Vienna they have double wires,
because the Government has insisted on the wires being placed
underground, and for underground service twin wires are a
necessity. In France it is the same — all exchanges are on the
single-wire system, except Paris, where wires are run in the sewers.
With reference to the question of public or private enterprise, an
example of the course of events was to be taken from Leicester,
where the Post Office had 133 subscribers ; when the National
Company opened, the Post Office subscribers fell to 100 and the
National had 275. In Hull they had more subscribers than the
Poet Office exchange, though it hiad been opened for 10 years. So
far the single-wire system had shown itself adapted for places
where one exchange was sufficient, where the wires are not of
great lengths, and where they are not required to go underground
As to trunk mains, the National Company had now 20,000 miles of
trunk mains over which they sent 1,600 millions of messages a
year, at a cost of less than Id. each. When it is advised that the
trunk mains should be taken over by the Government it could be
seen that such a proposal was of immense importance to the
company, who, having taken the trouble, vrished to reap the
advantage. They wouKl not agree to the taking over of the trunk
mains alone — they would even rather the whole were taken.
Mr. ProTaa4, K.P., chairman of the Mutual Telephone Com-
pany, said the Mutual exchange was opened in Manchester last
February with a list of 100 subscribers. They had now 1,000 on
the list, while the National Telephone Company had only 1,600—
that is, in a few months they had obtain^ two-thirds as many
subscribers as the National Company had obtained in 10 years.
This was due to the better service and the lesser rates. The
National tariff was ib20, the Mutual tariff was £5 to shareholders
(of whom there are 630), and £6 to non-shareholders. They had as
many as 1,400 on their list, of whom 930 or nearly 1,000 were
actually connected. When it was stated that the National Company
kept the word economy on their banner it must have been in laving
out money, not in tariff, that was meant. When Colonel Jackson
had expUuned the high tariff as due to difficulties with way-leaves
he must have been perfectly aware that there was another diffi-
culty, far more important, which he had thought well to
conceal, this was that the National Telephone Company had a
very small amount of cash and an enormously large sum of paper
capital. The work was done in London as bad as it could possibly
be done. There was not a man on the Board of the old company
that knew his business, and though the old company passed away
there were still some of the old members on the present Board,
and there was no one who could or would deal witn the schemes
from the use of the people. There were several very cogent
reasons why the company could never be successful — the financial
question was the principal one, and the other was that of twin
wiree. Notwithstanding what Colonel Jackson had said, there
never would be a successful telephone service until twin wires
were adopted throughout. Some towns might have a fairly
serviceable system, but if any person wished to compare the two
they could not do better than go to Manchester, wnere the two
were working side by side. He would be glad to show deputations
and let them test both the Mutual and tne National, for he had
them both in his office, and he did not hesitate to say which they
would find by far the best.
Mr. Bberur Foster, as a subscriber, said he hoped a better
■ervioe would be the outcome of the meeting. He trusted that
tlie National T^phone Company would not be allowed to absorb
the new tdephone company spoken of by the Duke of Marlborough.
The way in which London subscribers were served was admitted
by Colonel Jackson even to be very inefficient. They received the
very minimum of service for the very maximum of cost.
Mr. Sydney Morse urged that Parliament should allow the Bills
to go into Committee as suggested by the Duke of Marlborough.
He thought restrictions should be enforced to prevent exorbitant
tariffs being levied, and that conditions should be inserted to
prevent the telephone companies laying further claim (as they did
now) to a monopoly of the earth as a return. He suggested the
two resolutions should be amalgamated.
The Chiilrman said that this was exactly what he was intending
to propose.
The resolution as amended was then passed unanimously ae
follows :
'* That, ih view of the importance of the telephone industiy,
and the fact that two separate companies have Bills before Parlia-
ment, this Chamber should appoint a deputation to apply for an
interview with the Postmaster-General, and express the views of
the Chamber as to the supreme importance of her Majesty's
Government bringing a General Powers Bill into Parliament, so
as to afford facilities lor the development of the telephone not only
in the metropolis, but also with regard to inter-town service all
over the country, whether by private companies or by the Govern-
ment itself."
The following names were handed in to be submitted to the
council of the Chamber of Commerce as a deputation : Sir Albert
Rollit, M.P., the Duke of Marlborough, Mr. Provand, M.P., Mr.
F. W. Reynolds, Mr. Chambers, Mr. Bennett, Colonel Jackson, Mr.
Faithfull Begg, Mr. Jackson, Mr. Sheriff Foster, and Mr. Sydney
Morse.
In the course of the meeting Mr. Wallace announced that the
recently formed Association of Telephone Users would be regis-
tered as a {jublic body with members at 56. a year, having thus a
locus standi in all questions of Bills before Parliament, and he
urged members and subscribers to join this association.
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
WESTMINSTER ELECTRIC SUPPLY CORPORATION.
The ordinary general meeting of the shareholders of this
Company was held at the Westminster Palace Hotel on Wednesday,
Lord Suffield, chairman, presiding.
The Secretary, Mr. Frank lago, having read the notice
convening the meeting.
The Clialrman then said that he was not yet sufficiently
recovered from a severe illness to address them, but perhaps they
would allow him to move the adoption of the report and accounts
in a formal manner. He would ask his friend Mr. Powell to do
his (the Chairman's) duty for him on this occasion.
Mr. J. H. Powell, before proceeding to make any remarks on
the report and accounts, expressed the wishes of the Board and of
all the shareholders present that the Chairman might be restored
to health. Thev had been greatly pained by the news
of hirt long-continoed illness, and hoped now tnat he had
come among them again he might become as strong as ever he had
been. The report having been taken as read, the speaker con-
tinued : We have now the pleasure of congratulating you upon the
possession of three central stations, one in Millbank-street, which
IS practicallv complete— in fact, I don't think that any more pay-
ments will have to be made with regard to it, except for some
condensing apparatus. Then we have a central station at Ecdes-
ton -place, wnich, so far as plant and works are concerned, is
almost complete. And then we have, further, the station at Davies-
street, which is in an almost similar state. At Eccleston-place
we are making provision for offices for the Company, offices for the
secretary, for the engineer and his assistants, and a Board-room.
The erection of these ouildings will be completed for an amount the
interest upon which will be very considerably less than the rental
we are paying for somewhat inconvenient premises in Victoria-
street. At Davies-street we are covering the frontage with flats or
chambers erected at no very large cost, and we expect a very
considerable rental from them. The buildings have all oeen put up
in the most substantial way, and I hope anv shareholders who have
the opportunity will go and see for themselves how we have com*
bined the very best construction, without being at all extravagant.
I think you will all say if you see these builoings that they are
an ornament to the neighbourhood in which they are, and I
believe they will be surrounded by buildings of a similar
character. The greatest care has been taken by our engineer to
put up machinery of the best description, at the least possible
cost, and which, moreover, I believe to be the most economicaL
But we have arrived at this result after a great many drawbacks.
In the first place, our architect tells me that we were delayed at least
66 days by the severe frost of 1891 ; and, moreover, the carpenters'
strike of that year delayed the Davies-street buildings at least six
months. Yet, notwithstanding these great drawbacks, the promise
which we held out to you at our last general meeting that we
should be able to work from Eccleston-pbu^ within about a fort-
night, was fulfilled almost to the letter. Within a week of our
meeting we were able to start Eccleston-place— that is, by the
2nd March— and on the 4th March we were able to supply lignt for
her Majesty's Drawing-room with as much perfection, I believoi ae
characterises any of our lighting. Then I must tell you that
at the end of February of iMt year we had only 13,148 lamps on
circuit, and to show how the electric oumnt ^^aL-wwEML^
^14 TflE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 26, 1892.
found that in March there was an increase of 5,842 lampe ; in
April, 9,992 ; in May, 6,789 ; in round numbers aboub
22,000 lamps. That is, an increase of 22,000 lampe over
and above the small number we were supplyini; at the end of
February, which was only 13,148. Then by the end of June we
were supplying about 37,000 lamps ; that was, in round numbers,
about three times what we had been supplying in February. But
when June came sunlight was beginning to take the place of
electricity. People were be^nning to leave town residences, and,
notwithstanding the great increase in our lamps, we found that
our revenue didnot increase in a like proportion. However, the
increase of lamps still went on. In »lune we had an increase of
1,500 odd, in July 2,700 odd, August 2,500, and then as the days got
shorter the increase became larger still— 4,900 (Sept. ). Altogether
in these four months we made an increase of 11,692 lamps, which
I think was very gratifying under the circumstances. We
found, however, that there was no increase of revenue. The light
of the sun kept on and people kept away, and it was not until
October that we began to resJise the great increase that we had
made in our business ; while it was not until December that we
found that fog was our best friend, as I believe it always will prove
to be. Towards the end of December our receipts in one wecK rose
from £800 to £1,200 — that is, an increase of 50 per cent. Of course
this put a very heavy strain upon our engineer, and all who worked
under him, and I am happy to say that the supply in that week
was as good as it had ever been. It lb still more gratifying for me to
say, that when the following week came and the receipts for light
at once fell down from £1,!^ to their normal state of £80CS the
expenses seemed to decrease almost automatically. The figures I
have given you will explain why the income we »how on Dec. 31
is so small — viz., because during the first part of the year we had
comparatively few lights, and it was only as the season went on
that the grciat increase took place. Again, it was only in
November and December we showed what a valuable business we
had. It will be interesting for you to know what is likely to be
our income from our present circuit of lamps. I take our present
number at the very low figure of 68,000. I may tell you that since
December 31 the number of lamps lighted has very largely
increased, and that we have now arrived at the figure of 75,253.
But I will take the very moderate number of 68,000, and the still
more moderate estimate of lOs. per lamp and that will show you
that we should have an annual income of £34,000, instead of the
comparatively small income which is shown in our published ac-
counts. These accounts give our income as £19,000, so that upon a
lamp circuit of 68,000, wo shall have an increase in revenue of
£15,000. But then, of course, these figures are very far within
the mark. We find now that the increase in applications for light
per month amounts to something like 4,000 lamps, and we see no
reason why this figure should be less, although we can hardly
expect that we shall gain the enormous increases this year that
were shown during the past year. I am quite satisfied of this : if
we supply a good light at a moderate price people will see that
electric lighting has become one of the necessities of the age ; that
it is necessary For people's comfort in their houses, and also most
necessary for the conduct of business. In my own very small
experience I have occasionally to go to hotels, and I alwavs
choose those which have the electric light. I find that it is the
best light, that it gives the lecist unpleasant heat and no unpleasant
fumes, and I take it that every hotel and every clubhouse will
within a very short time be obliged to avail themselves of the light
which we offer them. Now I must again recall to your minds the
very great disadvantages under which we have laid during the
past year. Anyone who had gone to Davies-street station about
this time last year would have said that it was utterly impossible
that we could have supplied electric light from that station for
several months. Everything was in the greatest confusion. We
had an enormous number of excavators, builders, bricklayers, and
labourers at work, and you know, from your own experience in
private houses, the dust these gentlemen make about them, and
now destructive that dust is to machinery. Notwithstanding this,
when we saw the business that was offered us (the very large
business shown in our monthly increases) we thought it was
wise in ^our interests to put up a temporary building and to work
this business at any reasonable cost. The cost, I confess, was great,
but I think that the advantages are far out of proportion to the
cost of producing the light. Having so far descanted upon what
has taken place, and what are your probable requirements, it may
naturally occur to many of you to ask me, '* What provision have
you made for the future?" I think I can tell you tolerably
accurately. We are supplying about 68,000 lamps from our
present premises, and we nnd that with our existing machinery,
either in place or on order, we have accommodation for about
130,000 lampe. If the space at our disposal within the existing
buildings were utilised, we could supply from Millbank-street
30,000 more lamps, Eccleston -place 60,000 more lampe, and Davies-
street 75,000 more lampe, so that altogether the existing premises
could supply 165,000 more lamps. That brings up our capability of
supply to 295,000 lamps which I will take to be, in rouna numbers,
about four times our present output ; but that is not the
measure of what we can do. We fina that at Eccleston-place we
have a very considerable space in addition, so that when the time
comes we shall be able to enlarge our buildings there, and to
some extent at Millbank-street also, so as to arrive at a still
larger increase — altogether, with our extra space, we shall be able to
supply about double the figure that I have mentioned (295,000).
This is, I think, very satisfactory. I may tell you, in passing, that
at Eccleston-place we shall probably have to put up a little
more machinery to accommodate the extra number of lamps,
and I think it is not unlikely that we shall have to work that
stmtion UxIetvMjrhard when we get to the end of our tether ;
because I take it that the time must come, if Mayfair goes on as it
has already begun, when we shall have to provide further accom-
modation in that district. I won't go on with these observations
any further, but I will take ^ou to something which is more imme-
diately pressing, and that is the amount wmch we shall have to
allow for depreciation of machinery. You will see that in these
accounts we have idlowed £1,000, which we consider to be both
fair and ample. Our machinery is new, and a great deal of it was
not thorougnly worked until towards the ena of the year, and
therefore, ^though everything wears as soon as it is put into work,
we ourselves among the number, yet we thought it was only right
that we should put a certain sum against depreciation of machinery.
But I must not deceive you by letting you suppose that
£1,000 will in any way be sufficient for the depreciation which
we are likely to set against our revenue, and upon this matter I
will quote a report of our engineer, which I believe you may
thoroughly rely on. Ho says : "I think it would be wise not to
allow lees than £100 a week to be set apart for depreciation, paying
all maintenance charges out of revenue, in order that the Corpora-
tion may be able to meet the possibility of some new invention or
improvement being so rapidly matured as to make some of our
machinery obsolete." In passing, I may say that our machi-
nery is of the best and newesc description, but electric lighting
being a new invention there is no knowing what develop-
ments may take place, and so I quite agree with our engi-
neer. I ought not to say that i agree with him because
I am no one and he is everybody, but I thoroughly confirm
all that he says in this matter. The speaker then continued his
reading of the engineer's report, as follows : '*So far as we at
present know there is no astounding economy to be made in the
cost of production of electric light. Economies in detail will,
of course, be effected, and the cost of production will be
reduced as the total output increases. But any economies at
present must be the straightforward results of thorough good
management and unremitting atteution to details. If some happy
inventor succeeds in showing us how to provide light by elec-
tricity without producing heat, there will be an enormous saving
at once. Many inventors have been at work at this for a long
time, but as yet they have not attained any results, so
far as I know, of any commercial importance. No one
can deny that within a reasonable number of years some
such discovery may be made, although at present the very
best work that has been done does not seem to have pointed
out to us the right path. It is right to remember, however, that
steam boilers, engines, mains, dynamos, etc., will be required
whatever system may be the system of the future, and although in
all probability dynamos different from those at present in use will
be required, the rest of the plant may quite possibly remain
unaltered. In any case, the change of dynamos would be common
to every supply company, and not peculiar to one, so that we
should be still in quite as good a position as any company."
The^e figures, £100 a week, have not been adopted by the Board,
but I may say that we have such very great confidence in Prof,
Kennedy's figures, that I do not doubt we shall see the wisdom
of adopting them and the policy which he recommends. The tax
on the energies of the Board during the construction of the works
has been very heavy, and it is no small credit to those who started
this Company — of whom I was not one — that they .so accurately
calculatea the requirements of the districts. They said that it
would require £300,000 to start this business, and we have
managed to keep within that mark for the districts that were
allotted to us. But I should not be doing my duty if I were to
claim for myself, and I am sure my colleagues would not wish for
a moment to take credit to the Board for the results that I have
put before you— they are mainly produced by the foresight, the
constructive power, and the unfailing energy of our superinten-
dent engineer (Prof . Kennedy). It would be wrong of me to attempt
to take credit for anything of this kind, unless I put his name
prominently before you. He has always kept his work well
within his estimates. Not only have I been struck by his
accuracy in figures and his power of design, but also by his readi-
ness to take advantage of every appliance which has been invented
to reduce the cost of working, and I should say that no company
has carried out similar works at a less cost or with greater
success. I believe that no company within two years of its active
existence has been able to supply toe public with so many lights,
or so well, and for that result you should in a great measure thank
Prof. Kennedy. I must also single out your architect (Mr. C. S.
Peach) for much praise. He has evidently entered into the spirit
which has throughout animated the Board. He has worked well and
cordially with Prof. Kennedy, and in every dispute that we have
had — and people carrying on large buildings cannot avoid
disputes — with adjoining owners, he has not only kept
us iree from litigation, but with the help of the common sense ne
always carries about with him has succeeded in making good
settlements for us. I must also say words of praise in favour of
Captain Bax and our whole staff. Captain Bax has been most
successful in getting customers and dealing with them after we
had obtained them, and now that our business is likely to be one
more concerning administration than construction, I believe that
he will cordially work with us and will be a great helping hand
towards carrying out the policy which Prof. Kennedy has put
forth in the report which I nave read to you. (He then pointed
out a diagram on the wall, on which different coloured lines repre-
sented the number of lampe installed, the amount of revenue, and
cost of production, pointing out that the line repreeenting
revenue bore out what he had said — ^viz., how during the summer
months the revenue ran down and the expenses were slowly
climbing up, but how matters were rifi^hted when the
Bhort days and fogs came on.) GontinaiDg, the speaker
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 26, 1892. 215
said : I have only one or two remarks to make on this chiefly in
answer to a shareholder who has written to the Secretary, and
who wished me to answer the question at the meeting. The
question was, '* How is it that our cost of generating electricity
appears to be so high in comparison with the cost of another
company ? " The reason is that that other company began with a
gooa business at the beginning of 1891, and that we, as you will
see from that diagram, had hardly any business at all. But during
the whole of the year we were obliged to have an engineering staff
to do the small business, and it was not until we had reached
Septomber or October that we actually paid our working
expenses. It could not be otherwise. We nad three stations,
we had three resident engineers, and a number of people
about us that we could not possibly discharge— in fact, we could not
carry on the business without them— and therefore the cost of
generating the electricity appears to be comparatively high. But
S you will go into details I think you will find that our coet is
quite as low as the other company's, and that the explanation I
have given you is ample for the purpose. I will conclude my
remarks by seconding tne adoption of the report, and beg to say
that if any gentleman here requires any explanation of the
accounts or the report, my colleagues and 1 will be most happy to
give it.
A question put by Mr. Wm. Cooper as to the issue of £30,000 in
debentures having been answered and proved to rest on a mis-
apprehension, due to absence abroad,
Mr. Fltoh, the writer of the letter alluded to by the Deputy-
Chairman, said that he drew attention particularly to the coal ex-
penditure, which was proportionately £700 more than another
company. He also alluded to the cost of oil, waste, and water,
which was between £300 and £400 more than in the other company.
Prof. Kennedy, at the request of the Chairman, answered this
question. He said that at the time of year when they were
working by no means economically — viz., at the beginning of the
year — tney had a temporary station at Davies-street, which was
using 50 per cent, more coal per unit than was used now. When
they were first started, the stations at Davies- street and Eccleston-
place were using more coal proportionately than was the case
now. The Questioner was comparing the work of the Company
with 10,000 lamps going in January, with the work of a company
beginning with 30,000 lamps at the same time. He had been
through the accounts very carefully, and the cost in pence for the
last two quarters, when they had had a considerable number of
lights on. had been precisely that of the company alluded to by Mr.
Fiteh, and the total sum paid by them and by the Westminster
Company per unit was about the same. The cost of stores,
water, and oil was a little less with the Westminster than with
the other company. He trusted that next year they would be
the most economical of all the companies. There was no fair
comparison between a year in which they had been working
upwards under di£Scuities, like last year, and a year such as
they were now beginning with a fairly full load on.
The Chairman then put the motion adopting the report and
accounts, and it was carried unanimously.
A Sluureliolder asked as to the prospect of a dividend.
Mr, Powell said they had not discussed the matter. They
dealt with facts and not with prophecies, and would rather wait
and see the result of the next six months' working. As soon as it
was possible to declare a dividend they would do so.
The Chairman concurred, remarking that he thought the
honourable proprietor would see that they were in a fair way to
success.
Kr. Seed proposed the re-election of Messrs. Cooper Bros, and
Co. as auditors. This was duly seconded, and carried.
Prof. Kennedy invited shareholders to go over the Company's
stations, as he was sure they would be interested in what they
saw there.
A vote of thanks to the Chairman for presiding under excep-
tional difficulties, and to the Board, was heartily accorded on the
proposition of Mr. ICark Stewart, M.P., seconded by Kr. Cooper,
ana the proceedings closed.
BIRMINGHAM ELECTRIC SUPPLY COMPANY.
The second annual meeting of this Company was held on Thurs-
day week at the offices of Company. Mr. H. Buckley presided.
The Chairman, in moving the adoption of the report (see E.E.
for February l*2tb), said the close of the financial year was altered
from the 31st March to the 31st December to meet the require-
ments of the Board of Trade. The accounto showed a profit of
£713. 16s. 4d. ; but although the number of lights on the 3l8t
December was 5,480, that was not the number of lamps earning an
income during the nine months. The average number of lamps
was 3,135, or, in other wordn, the earning power of the 5,480
lamps was only for 5*15 months. They commenced in April with
795 lamps only, but that number increased to 5,192 lamps earning
an income, although there were 5,480 on order. At the present
time there were more than 6,100 lamps on order. The current had
been taken by various classes of the community, including hotels,
dubs, public buildings, institutions, restauranto, shops, banks,
insurance offices, general offices, and a theatre. The demand for
the light had been most satisfactory, and during the coming year
it would be necessary to extend their mains and make some
increase in their engines and dynamos in order to be prepared for
an extension of their business, and to meet any temporary difficulty
which might occur through their plant getting out of repair.
Kr. O. A. Barrlsoa seconded the resolution, which was carried.
Meesrs. J. F. Albright and O. H. Johnstone were re-elected
directors, and Messrs. Sharp, Parsons, and Co, auditors.
INDIA BUBBEB, 6UTTA PERCHA, AND TELEGRAPH
WORKS COMPANY.
The twenty-eighth ordinary general meeting of this Company
was held at Cannon-street Hotel on Tuesday, Mr. S. William
Silver, chairman, presiding.
The Secretary, Mr. Wm. J. Tyler, having read the notice con-
vening the meeting.
The Cbalrmaii moved the adoption of the report and accounts,
together with the declaration of a dividend and bonus for the year
at the rate of 12^ per cent. The amount carried forward was, he
said, £42,073, after adding £25,000 to reserve. He wished to
impress upon shareholders the fact that the amount of their share
capital was very small when they considered the nature and extent
of their business. By looking at the accounts {inde last issue of
the Electrical Engineer) they would see that the first item of their
"assets and expenditure" was £70,000 more than the whole of
their subscribed share capital, and yet some shareholders did not
see the advantage of their reserve fund. But it was necessary. In
fact, the working capital, with the reserve added, was too small to
enable them to undertake extensive contracts when offered. They
must remember that cable contracts were generally l&ree ones ;
and when two or three came to be open for tender about the same
time, contractors needed a large command of capital to deal with
them. Taking all these facts into consideration, the Directors
thought the time had come for them to set to work to still further
increase their capital, and their present intention was to issue some
new shares. They would, of course, issue them at a premium, and
they proposed to offer them to shareholders in proportion to their
holdings, so as to give to each one an advantaigeous opportuni^
of increasing his stake in the Company. Machinery and build-
ings, both in this country and in France, were now so complete
as to put the Company in a very favourable position as manufac-
turers. Their prospects, also, he would add, were very encou-
raging. It was his painful duty to inform shareholders of the
death only last week of his old and esteemed colleague, Mr. Neil
Bannatyne.
Mr. Abraham Seott having seconded the motion for the
adoption of the report.
The Chairman invited remarks from any shareholder who might
feel in a questioning humour.
Mr. Coohrane was not struck with the brilliancy of the return
to shareholders in view of the fact that Directors were handling
a reserve fund fully equal to three-fourths of the capital on which
dividends were paid— vLb., £416,000. He proceeded to criticise
the remuneration of the Directors.
Mr. Swete alluded to the way the reserve fund was invested, a
subject on which he wanted more information, and also to the
remuneration of the Directors, and thought it would be bettor to
make it a fixed sum (at present the Directors receive additional
remuneration when the snareholders have received 10 per cent. ).
The Chairman did not think Mr. Cochrane's general remarks
called for any reply. In answer to Mr. Swete, however, he would
point out that the way the reserve fund was invested was clearly
stated in the assets as bein^ in premises and stock. He then put
the motion, which was earned unanimously.
The reelection of Mr. Abraham Scott and Mr. A. Weston
Jarvis, M.P., as directors, was proposed by the Chairman
seconded by Kr. Marsham, and carried nem. dis,
Mr. Weise having been re-elected auditor, on the proposition of
Kr. Hanson, seconded by Kr. Coohrane,
The proceedings closed with a cordial vote of thanks to the
Chairman and Directors, the name of Mr. Matthew Gray,
managing director, being specially mentioned.
COMPANIES' REPORTS.
TELEGRAPH CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE
COMPANY.
The report of the Directors for the year 1891 states that the
accounts for the year show a net profit of £85,199, after charging
the interest on the debentures. To this sum must be added
£61,524 brought forward from last year, making a total of
£146,724. From this amount is deducted the interim dividend of
5 per cent., paid July 14, 1891, amounting to £22,410, leaving
£124,314 to be dealt with. Of this sum the Directors propose to
distribute a di\'idend of £1. 16s. per share, absorbing £67,230,
being at the rate of 15 per cent., and making, with the amount
already paid, a totel dividend for the year of £2. 8s. per share, or
20 per cent., free of income tex, leaving £57,084 to be carried
forward to the next account.
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
Bleotro-Autamatlo nre-Xztlnsnlahlnc Compan/, Llmitad.—
Registered by Fox and Joy, 59 and 60, Chancery-lane, W.C., with
a capital of £12,500 in £1 shares. Object : to carry into effect an
agreement, expressed to be made between Charles M. Martin (of
No. 8, Imperial-buildings, Holborn Viaduct) of the one part and
this Company of the other part, for the acquisition of certain
letters patent, patent rights, ete. , and to develop and work the
same, and to carry on in all its branchos Usa VstosKawM^ ^ ^x&as^^-
216 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, FEBRUARY 26, 1892.
faotarer and vendor of fire-extinguishing apparatai. Registered
without articles of association.
BUSINESS NOTES.
city and Sovtli London Railway. — The receipts for the week
ending 21st February were £827, against £718 for the corre-
sponding period of last year, showing an increase of £154. As
compart with the week ending February 7th, last week's receipts
show a decrease of £54.
IMroot Spaatali Tolograph Company. —The Directors have to
recommend the payment of a dividend of 10 per cent, per annum
on the preference shares, and of 4 per cent, on the ordinary shares,
making, with the previous half-year's dividend, a total distribution
of 4^ per cent, for the year on the ordinary shares.
Xloetrio nraotlon.— In connection with another note in this
column, we are informed that Mr. W. S. Graff-Baker, who has
been the representative of the Thomson -Houston International
Electric Company's electric traction system in Great Britain, will
continue to devote himself exclusively to the introduction of the
system, with headquarters at the Company's offices, 35, Parliament-
street, Westminster.
Tlie Tliomson-Honoton System. — The Thomson -Houston Inter-
national Electric Company, of 35, Parliament- street, S.W., inform
us that they have just transferred all their business in Germany,
Austro-Hungary, European and Asiatic Russia, Finland, Sweden,
Norway, Denmark, Holland, Belgium, Switzerland, Turkey and
the Balkan States, connected with the introduction and use of the
Thomson-Houston syBtems of electric lighting, power, tramways
and mining apparatus, to the Union Electricitiits Gesellschaft, of
Berlin. Tne manager hitherto of the Hamburg office of the
Thomson- Houston International Electric Company, Mr. Louis J.
Magee, will take an active papt in the management of the new
company, as its technical director. All busmess in Europe, in
countries other than those named, remains under the direct
management of the Thomson-Houston International Electric
Company, and will be cared for from the general European office
of the Company, No. 7, Bue du Louvre, Paris, wherea competent
staff of engineers will be kept, and from which office all informa-
tion and estimates will be cheerfully furnished. Mr. E. Thumauer,
who for several years has been in charge of the Paris office of the
Thomson-Houston International Electric Company, has been
appointed by the Board of Directors the general European manager
of the Company, and will have sole charge of all its affairs in Con-
tinental Europe, Great Britain, and Ireland. The lx)ndon office
of the Company will remain at 35, Parliament-street, Westminster,
S.W., although the lighting business for England and Ireland will
be conducted by its long time agents, the Laing, Wharton, and
Down Construction Syndicate, Limited, of 38, Parliament-street,
S.W.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1892.
February 15.
2913. ImproTomonts In tlio elootromotallnrglo oxtrnotten of
sine. George Nahnsen, 38, Alexander-strasse, Berlin.
(Complete specification. )
February 16.
298* Improvomonts In oleetro-modlenl nppUnnoes. Percy
Albert Craven, 9, King's-road, Wimbledon, Surrey.
2992. ImproToments In ayotams of olootrlenl dlstiilmtlon of
heating onrrento. George Dexter Burton, 52, Chance ry-
lane, London. (Complete specification.)
2996. An Improromont In the oonstmotlon of elootrle Inean-
deooent Umpo. Frederick Hoyer, 1, Maghill -street,
Liverpool.
030. ImproTomonts In and relating to the lighting of railway
▼ehlolee by eleotrlelty, and to apparatus therefor.
Henry Harris Lake 45, Southampton -buildings, London.
(The Consolidated Car-heating Company, United States.)
(Complete specification.)
February 17.
3112. Improrementa In eleotrle meters. Sebastian Ziani de
Ferranti, 24, Southampton-buildings, London.
3113. Improvements In generating, transmitting, and utilising
onrrents of high tension, and In apparatus used for
theee purposes. Sebastian Ziani de Ferranti, 24,
Southampton-buildings, London.
3114. Improvements In eleotrloal primary batteries. Charles
Thompson, 18, Buckingham-street, Strand, London.
3120. Improvements relating to galvano-plastles or the eleotro-
deposltlon of metal Pierre Henry Bertrand, 4, South-
street, Finsbury, London.
February 18.
3145. Improvements In eleotrle globe and shade holders.
John Whitehead, 42, Anglesey-street, Losells, Bir-
mingham.
3J62, ladleafor of railway stations by eleotrlelty. Julius
Heioriob Ahreos, 100, BeklM-road, Swiss Cottage,
3211.
3212.
3223.
3233.
3234.
3238.
3240.
3244.
3283.
3291.
3297.
3300.
3314.
3.366.
3379.
Improved eleetrle swlteh. Frederick Brown, 87t
Chancery-lane, London.
Improvements In the applleatlon of eleotrlo light to
roundabouts, and the like, whleh Improvements ar«
also applleable to advertising purposes. Frederick
Brown and Patrick Collins, 37» Chancery-lane, London.
February 19.
Improvements In apparatus for eleetrloally signalling
the engine-drivers or the guards of trains. George
Wilson, Bank -buildings, George-street, Sheffield.
Improvements In apparatus to be used In oonneetlon
with eleotrloaUy-drlven maohlnes. William Stepnev
Rawson, Charles Scott Snell, and Woodhouse ana
Rawson, United, Limited, 88, Queen Victoria-street,
London.
Improvements In eleotrloal switohes suitable for use In
oonneetlon with eleotrlo launohes and the like. Charles
Scott Snell, and Woodhouse and Rawson, United, Limited,
88, Queen Victoria-street, London.
A gear spring look notion for glass holders of globes used
on chandeliers, braokets, eleotrollers, ete. Henry
Bisseker, 11, New Bartholomew-street, Birmingham.
Improvements In materials or oompounds to be used In
the manuteetore of moulded artloles, sueh as door
handles. Insulators for eleotrloal purposes, boses,
toys, and other artloles of the like kind. James Lang,
35, Southampton-buildings, London.
Improvements In the method of and apparatus Ibr
Ughtln« by eleotrlelty ciroular switohbaek railways.
William Mitchell, 8. Quality-court, London.
Improvements In eleotrlo arc lamps, speelally appUoaUe
to searohllghts. John Henry Tonge, and Latimer Clark,
Muirhead, and Co., Limited, 24, Southampton-buildings,
London.
Improvements In tubular eleotrloal eonduotors. Ernest
Payne, 28, Southampton-buildings, Ix>ndon.
Improvements In eleotrlo meters. Caesar Vogt, !t8,
38, Chancery-lane, London.
Improved means for eflOotlng the oonneetlon of eleotrloal
eonduotors. Clement Johnson Barley, 47i Lincoln's-inn-
fields, London.
February 20.
Improvements In, and relating to, the utilisation of
alternating currents of eleotrlelty for predueing motive
power, for c harglng storage batteries, and for other
eleotro-meehanloal and elootro-ohemleal operations.
Charles Barnard Burdon, 71, Raleigh-road, Hornsey,
Middlesex.
Improvements In dynamo-eleotrlo maehlnes. Thomas
Lynch Hemming, 12, Cherry -street, Birmingham.
Improvements In stoves applicable espeolally to thermo-
eleetrte stoves. William Robert Renshaw, 24, South-
ampton-buildings, London.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1880.
3880** meotrlo eonduotors. (Amended.) Jensen. (Edison
Electric Light Company's disclaimer. ) 8d.
1887.
16623* Dynamo-eleotrle generators, etc. (Amended.) Ooolden
and Atkinson. 8d.
1891.
2046. Kleotrloally-propelled vehloles. Hutchinson. 8d.
4588. Eleotrlo lamps. Munro. Gd.
5329. Xleotrlo safety lamps. Bristol. 8d.
5350. Eleotrloal dynamo maehlnes. Hardier. 6d.
5404. Eleotrle, ete., lamps. Clift. 6d.
5802. Ineandesoent eleotrlo lamps. W. and A. J. Mdreogh. 6d.
20699. Eleotrle Indloator. Thatcher and Devereux. 8d.
22785. Dynamo-eleotrlo maehlnes. Pyke and Harris. 6d.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Brush Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, Qutta Percha k Telegraph 0>.
HoQse-to-House
Metropolitan Bleotric Supply
London Eleotrio Sup^y
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Eleotric Constmotion
Westminster JOeotric
larerpool Sleotrio Supply
{
Paid.
um
_
3|
—
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10
211
6
5
—
81
5
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44
81
6
41
10
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24
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 4, 1892.
217
NOTES.
Dewsbiiry is anxious to have the best system of central
station lighting.
Blackpool Town Council have decided to extend
their electric lighting.
Ulle. — It is proposed to use gas engines coupled direct
with dynamos for the central station at Lille.
Telephone Bill. — We understand that there are over
100 opponents to the National Telephone Bill.
Gloncester. — Why should not the new Gloucester
municipal buildings be fitted with electric light ?
Dresden — ^A committee has been appointed to procure
plans and estimates for a central lighting station.
Alternate-Current Motors. — The Fremdenblatt news-
paper, of Vienna, is printed by alternate-current motors.
Sntton Coldfield. — The promoters of the Sutton
Coldfield Electricity and (Jas Bill have dropped their
scheme.
Paddington Central Station is being proceeded
with energetically, much of the machinery being placed in
position.
Gibraltar. — The specification for the lighting of
Gibraltar by electric light will not be settled definitely
until after Easter.
Electricity in Gas Works.— The Compagnie
Parisienne du Gaz has installed a complete electrical labora-
tory in their works.
Blectro-Harmonic. — The concert of the Electro-
Harmonic Society is a ladies' nis^ht to-night (Friday) at
eight, at the St. James's Hall (Banquet-room).
The Electric Combination of the Thomson-Houston
and Edison Companies in America is to take the name, we
hear, of the General Electric Company of America.
Halifax. — The Technical Instruction Committee have
resolved to obtain tenders for a new technical school.
These ought to and probably will include electric light.
Birminfirham. — Messrs. Fowler and Lancaster have
been awarded the contract for lighting the Grand Theatre,
Birmingham. Both arcs and incandescents will be used.
Scarborongh. — A provisional order was obtained last
session for Scarborough. Nothing more has yet been done,
but it IB expected that further steps will be taken shortly.
Burnley. — The Burnley Gas Committee have received
the report of the electrical engineer on the supply of the
electric lights and resolved to make application to borrow
£25,000 for plant.
New Telephone Company Bill. — The second reading
of this Bill, for the rejection of which motions had been
put down by Mr. Kimber and Sir A. Rollit, has been post-
poned to the 8th inst.
Edison-Swan Company. — Major Flood Page has
been elected a director of the Edison-Swan Company in
the vacancy caused by the death of Mr. Leyland, being also
elected deputy-chairman.
The St. Pancras Vestry have given notice of the
withdrawal of their deposited Bill, under which powers
^ ere sought to borrow £360,000 for the electric lighting
of the whole of the parish.
East Itondon. — A new electric lighting company is in
process of formation, with the object of supplying the
electric b'ght to offices and houses and public institutions
in the eastern districts of London.
The Institution. — At the next meeting of the Institu-
tion, March 10, the discussion on alternate currents will be
concluded, and a paper read by Prof. Hughes, F.RS., on
" Oil as an Insulator,'' illustrated by experiments.
Isle of Wlfirht. — By a majority the Local Board of
West Cowes has decided to consent to the application of
the Isle of Wight Electric Lighting Company to the Boar ^
of Trade for powers to light West Cowes by electricity.
Universal Pliers. — Dr. 0. May, of Frankfort, has
designed a pair of electrical engineer's pliers, which fulfil
four purposes-r-pointed pliers, wire-cutters, metal shears,
and hole-puncher. It should be an extremely useful tool.
Ronndhay Tramway. — The success of the Bounday
electric tramway amongst the inhabitants of Leeds seems
perfectly assured, and active steps are being taken to
bring into shape the project for a further extension of the
line.
Aston. — At the meeting of the Aston Local Board the
proposal of the Baths Committee, that the offer of the Free
Library Committee to pay £32 per annum for the supply
of electric light to the Free Library be accepted, was
adopted.
Are Lamps for Shops. — Where a richly-dressed
window is lighted with arc lamps it is sometimes very
awkward to get at the lamp for trimming. In Berlin lamps
in such places are not suspended, but sent into the window
on runners.
Indian Telegraphs. — The telegraph has been ex-
tended from Bhamo to Nampoung post on the Chinese
frontier. There is now a gap of only 65 miles between
the terminus of the English wire and the Chinese telegraph
station at Momein.
Coast Telegraphs. — The Clyde Steamship Owners'
Association has forwarded to the House of Commons a
petition praying for the establishment of a coast line of
telegraph connecting all the coastguard stations and light-
houses of the Clyde.
Blaokpool Tramway Bill. — The Blackpool Electric
Tramway Company, through their agents, have deposited in
the Private Bill Office of the House of Commons a petition
praying to be heard by counsel against this Bill when it
reaches the committee stage.
Phsrsioal Sooiety. — At the Physical Society, Science
Schools, South Kensington, to-day (Friday), at 5 p.m.,
Prof. S. P. Thompson will bring forward "Modes of
Representing KM.F.'s and Currents," and Prof. Perry will
read a paper on " Choking Coils."
Examinerships. — The University of London, on April
27, will elect examiners (amongst others) in physical
science ; salaries, £210. The present examiners are Prof.
G. F. Fitzgerald, F.R.S., and Prof. Oliver Lodge, F.R.S.,
who are offering themselves for re-election.
Walsall. — The Corporation of Walsall, as will be seen
from their advertisement, are inviting tenders for supply
and erection of a central electric light station. Particulars,
with plan, can be obtained from Mr. John K. Cooper, town
clerk. Tenders to be sent in by April 9th.
Mexboronsrh (Yorks.) Loeal Board is considering
the question of purchase of gas works. Gas is 3s. 6d. a
1,000, which is high for a Yorkshire town. The Board
had better consider an electric lighting scheme. They will
have to do this some day, and why not now ?
Aberdeen Library. — The librarian has been instructed
to enquire into the possibility of lighting the building by
electricity, and to ascertain if the directors of the infirmary _
which, it will be remembered, is already lighted — s^^|q a
position to supply current for such a pur^ae. ^"
218
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEEB, MARCH 4, 1892.
-t
British RepraBentatlon at Chioogo. — A meeting
of the London Chamber of Commerce will be held on
Friday, March 11th, at 3.30, at the Mansion House, under
the presidency of the Lord Mayor, in connection with the
British representation at the Chicago Exhibition.
Proposed Paolflo Cable.— A Router's telegram from
Sydney states that the New South Wales Government is
willing to subsidise the section of the FaciSc telegraph
cable between Queensland and New Caledonia on condition
that Government messages shall be transmitted tree.
Boiler Patents. — Models of Messrs. Zahikian and
Micbaux'a patent arrangement for prevention of boiler
incrustation, and consequent saving of fuel, are to be seen
at 90, Victoria-street, Westminster. A small syndicate is
being formed, with offices at 1, Quality-court, Chancery-
lane.
Central Station Cranes. — The Gas Committee of
the Manchester Corporation invite tenders for the supply
of cranes to their electric light station, by March 10th.
Applications, accompanied by a deposit of two guineas, to
bo made to Mr. Nickson, Gas Department, Town Hall,
Manchester.
Balentrian Telegraphs. — With a view of improving
telegraphic communication between Adrianople, Philip-
popolis, and Sofia, the Bulgarian Government proposed to
establish a telegraph line between Doblintza, Djoumaa,
E^hri-Palanka, and Kustendil. It has been decided to
Undertake the works.
Hnnicipal Engineers. — The Incorporated Association
of Municipal and County Engineers will visit the West
Brompton and the Kensington Court electric lighting
atations on Saturday, March 12. A considerable number
of the members will visit the Crystal Palace Exhibition on
the previous evening.
Coventry. — At the meeting of the Coventry City
Council on Tuesday, on the proposition of Mr. West it was
decided that a deputation from the Council visit the
Electrical Exhibition at the Crystal Palace, with the view
of obtaining information as to the production and distri-
bution of the electric light.
Lytham Pier, — Mr. J. Stevenson, chairman of the
Lytham Pier Company, intends visiting the Crystal Palace
Exhibition in a few days, with reference to electric lighting
on the pier, the directors contemplating lighting the pier
throughout by electricity, a building for the storage of
the necessary appliances having already been put up.
Leeds. — The Leeds Town Council have authorised the
expenditure of £500 by the Corporate Projjorty Committee
to provide a new installation of electric light for the free
public library, Alderman Gibson thought it was better at
once to remove the machinery to a separate building, as it
caused vibration, even if the cost were more. It is pruposed
to add 133 lights.
Uansion House. — We ue asked to notify that the
private view of their electric light installation at the
Mansion House announced by the Planet Electrical Engi-
neering Company for Tuesday, March 1, has been [wst-
poned to Monday evening next, the 7th inst., betiveen
6 and 10 p.m., to enable the Lord Mayor and Lady
Mayoress to be present.
Battersea. — At the meeting of the Battersea Vestry
last week, the Electric Lighting Committee recommended,
jjwith regard to the application by the Putney and Uammer-
'tb Electric Light Company for a provisional order, that
"^ as the comj>any were prepared to supply electrical
' So/ont.^**^7 should consider the advisability of light-
ing the public streets by electric light. The matter wa«
adjourned for three months.
New Telephone Company. — A Pioneer Telephone
Company has been formed, lists closing yesterday, to lakfl
over the Mutual Telephone Company of Manchester, and to
provide the necessary capital for the New Telephone
Company, Limited (whoso Bill is now before Parliament),
in the same way as the Pioneer Lighting Company did for
the City of London Company.
City Lighting. — The City of London Electric Lighting
Company has been making itself pretty evident to financiers
lately, not in any occult way, but in the purely practictil
fashion of taking up the pavements of Old Broad-street to
lay their pipes and conductors. Long lengths of streets
aie now laid, both here and as far as Fenchurcb-street
Station. The light will soon be at the disposal of the
magnates of the City from Aldgate to St. Paul's.
Telephone to Ireland. — We are authoritatively
informed that there is no foundation whatever for the
report circulated in some quarters that a telephone cable ia
to be laid to Ireland. No such idea is contemplated. A
new telegraph cable is to be laid, which perhaps may have
given rise to the rumour of the establishment of a tele-
phone line — an enterprise, however desirable, considered
beyond practical range of accomplishment at present.
Omnlbas Lighting. — The London General Omnibus
Company has found the use of pocket electric lamps so
useful to its ticket inspectors that the whole staff is now
fitted, The lamps have been supplied by the Bristol
Electric Lamp Company, and the number of lamps amounts
in all to 60; they are of 1 c.p. or 2 c.p., weight inclusive
2lb. each, secondary battery. The cost ia 8d. per lamp per
week. The omnibus company is to be congratulated upon
their initiative.
Nottingham. — The Nottingham Town Council decided
some time ago to establish a central electric lighting
station. They have empowered a committee to draw up
a specification of the works and plant required, with an
estimate of the cost. The committee have recently visited
the Crystal Palace with the idea of informing themselves
upon recent progress in electrical practice, but will not
arrive at any definite decision without the assistance of one
or more experts.
Spanish Telegraphs. — Tenders are required on 10th
March by the Direction Generale des Posts, 10, Calle da
Carratas, Madrid, for 25,000 porcelain telegraph insulators
(If. 50c,), 3,000 ditto for telephone (80c.), 16,260 poles
various sizes, 60 tons Iram. wire (441f. per ton). Caution-
money 5 per cent. Also, 12th March same address, 12,645 —
poles; 14th March, 20,000 insulators (If. 50c.), 85 tons
bronze wire, 3nim, (3,200f. per ton) ; and 26th March,
40,000 zinc cylinders.
Blinehead. — Mr. G. Hayward has had the electric
light introduced into his mineral-water factory and other
parts of his premises. The installation consists of a
40-1ight compound -wound dynamo driven by a 3-h.p. Otto
high-speed gas engine. The wiring of the premises and
fixing all the various lamps, switches, fuses, and other
fittings were entrusted to Messrs. King, Mendham, and
Co., of Bristol, Mr. R. Clark and Mr. M. Capron assisting
their electrician, Mr. A. Rouch,
Derby. — At the meeting of the Derby Town Council on
Wednesday, the Mayor moved that the Electric LightiGg
Committee be authorised to take steps to obtain an exten-
sion of time for the laying of the electric mains in the
compulsory area of the borough as defined by the electric
lighting order, 1890. He stated that the time uuder the
TttE ELECTRICAL fil^GlNllER, MARCH 4, 1893.
2l9
present order would expire on August 4th, and he under-
atood from Sir Frederick Bramwell that if an extension
was granted it would not exceed three months. The
motion was agreed to without discussion.
Gas Engines for Theatres.— The London County
Council have adopted a series of rules and regulations with
regard to the electric lighting of theatres and other places
of entertainment. One is that gas engines employed in
this connection are to be placed in rooms so adequately and
continuously ventilated that no explosive mixture of gas
can accumulate by any leakage from the engine in the
event of any of the gas-cocks being left turned on. A
hood, connected with a pipe carried into the external air,
is to be fixed over the ignition-tube, when this is used.
Sleotric Traction Finance. — A meeting of the
Society of Engineers will be held at the Town Hall, West-
minster on, Monday next, March 7th, at 7.30 p.m., when a
paper will be read on "Electrical Traction and iU
Financial Aspect,'* by Mr. Stephen Sellon. The following
is a synopsis of the paper : Object of paper ; accumulator
system ; overhead system ; conduit system ; National
Telephone clauses ; Roundhay electric tramway ; working
expenses in America ; Blackpool electric tramway ; Waller-
Manville system ; the commercial question ; cost of con-
struction for horse, cable, and electricity ; comparison of
working cost for each system. Visitors are admitted.
Band Music by Telephone. — An interesting and
amusing instance of the efficacy of the London-Paris tele-
phone occurred the other day which is worth recording. The
Salvation Army band were marching from the Royal
Exchange playing the " Marseillaise," when an idea struck
the members present in the telephone-room. The windows
and doors were thrown open and the attendant at the Paris
end was asked if he could hear anything. The response
(in French) was immediate, "Yes, I can hear a band playing
the • Marseillaise.' " That a band of music playing in the
streets of London could be plainly distinguished in Paris is,
we think, a sufficiently striking marvel of the nineteenth-
century science.
Dsmamo-Electric Machinery. — ^The new edition of
Prof. Silvanus Thompson's work on the dynamo will be
published in about a fortnight. Considerable alteration
has been made, the whole has been practically rewritten
and brought up to date, large additions have been made,
and an appendix containing diagrams and working
drawings greatly add to the usefulness and practicability
of this most useful and practical of technical books. The
size will reach 800 pages, and the price, we understand,
will be slightly raised, making the net selling price equal
to the present published price — viz., 168. The appearance
of the new edition has long been awaited with interest by
students and engineers alike.
Incandescent Lamp Uannfactore.— The Edison-
Swan patents have only two years to run. Is it worth
while to fight ? Apparently not, for the letter issued by
the Sunbeam Lamp Company, hitherto left in peace to
make high candle-power lamps, says : " We much regret
to have to inform you that owing to the action taken by
the Edison and Swan Company, we shall be unable during
the continuance of the Edison patent to meet any more of
your valued orders for Sunbeam lamps. We have con-
sented, rather than enter into a costly litigation with the
Edison and Swan Company, and in view of the early
expiry of both their patents, to suspend their manufacture."
The Edison Company are warning not only makers but all
osers of lamps against using other than those of Edison-
Swan manufacture.
Automatic Uessenger Gali-Bez. — A very inge-
nious antomatic machine has been established near the
letter box at Charing Cross railway station for the collec-
tion of letters to be forwarded by the Post Office express
service. It is in electrical connection with the postal tele-
graph (»ffice opposite the station. By dropping a penny
into the slot and pulling out the slide a brown-coloured
envelope is delivered. This envelope contains another
envelope and a card. The communication is intended to be
written on the card, which is then enclosed in the white
envelope, and this, with the fees for delivery, which have
been fixed at 3d. per mile, is re-enclosed in the outer enve-
lope and deposited in the box behind the flap which bears
the printed instructions. The act of withdrawing the
slide sends the call signal to the telegraph office, and a
messenger is at once despatched to collect the special
letters.
Bnlffarian Telegraphs. — Tenders are notified by the
French Minister of Posts and Telegraphs until March 8,
at the Commission Permanente de Sofia, under seal, for
37,000 kilogrammes of telegraph wire of 4mm., 500 kilo-
grammes of 2mm. wire, 11,000 insulators, and 11,000
brackets. These are to be furnished as follows : at Lom
Palanka, 15,000 kilogrammes of 4mm. wire, 3,500 brackets
and insulators ; at Rustchuk, 1,200 kilogrammes of 4mm.
wire, 4,000 brackets and insulators ; at Sofia, 10,000 kilo-
grammes of 4mm. wire, 500 kilogrammes of 2mm. wire,
3,500 insulators and brackets. Separate tenders can be
sent if desired. The total value is limited for the 4mm.
wire to 18,500f., 2mm. wire 300f., bracketo 7,000f., and
insulators 10,000f. — a total of l,790f. Deposit-money is
required. Further details at the Sofia Commission Office,
or of the Bureaux des Benseignements Commerciaux, 80,
rue de Yarenne.
Salford. — At the monthly meeting of the Salford
Borough Council on Wednesday, Mr. Phillips moved a
resolution of the General Gas Committee that it was
expedient that the Corporation exercise within the borough
the powers conferred upon them by the provisional order
for electric lighting. The committee had in view in
adopting a scheme to agree only to have a comparatively
small installation, which would preserve to the borough
the right of electric lighting, and as occasion arose after-
wards extensions might be made. The Board of Trade had
sanctioned a small area, and the lighting would be confined
at present within that area. An amendment was moved
that the exercise of the powers should be postponed, there
being no need to fear terrible results from the establish-
ment of a private company. The amendment was lost by
a large majority. Mr. Phillips explained that the cost of
the first iiisuilation would be £15,000 to £20.000.
LiTerpool. — ^At the meeting of the Liverpool City
Council on Wednesday, Mr. Hornby moved the adoption
of the recommendation of the Watch Committee that the
Board of Trade be informed that the Corporation were
willing to withdraw their opposition to the Liverpool
electric lighting provisional order, 1892, and to give their
consent to it being granted, provided it was amended in
accordance with the terms approved of by the committee.
Mr. Hornby explained that this was a fair compromise, the
Corporation securing power to purchase the undertaking
after the lapse of a certain period. At particular intervals
the Board of Trade might be approached, and might alter
the mode and amount of payment. Alderman Dr. Cross
ascertained that provision had been made for regulating the
price of the electric light to the public, according to the
increase of dividend. When the dividend was over 7 per
cent, the surplus was to go towards the reduction of the
price. The recommendation was confirmed.
Tesla Apiiaratos. — Our readers will be interested to
learn that a Tesla experimental apparatus is heiasi, <v^^-
:t
2^
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 4, 1892
atructed for lecture purposes at the Fiosbury Technical
College. The students will be very much on the qui vive
the first time Dr. Thompson ventures to take the million-
volt shock into his body. Some one must evidently follow
suit to Mr. Tesla, but we have heard the opinion expressed
by several engineers that they would hardly like to build
and test such an appai*atus with a trust in its harmlessness
merely from abstract or . mathematical reasoning without
trying it, say, on a calf first. Mr. Tesla has a splendidly-
equipped laboratory in New York, and the experiments he
showed at the Koyal Institution are by no means all he
had to produce, given more accurately determined con-
ditions. With the experimental skill of Finsbury also
turned on to this new branch of electricity — the " vibratory
current " system — we may soon see electric lamps without
wires — primitive, no doubt, but yet alight — amongst the
regular course of lecture demonstrations at technical
colleges.
Uanohester Central Railway Station. — The
Central Railway Station at Manchester has been brilliantly
lighted by 40 arc lights of 2,000 c.p., distributed over the
platform and approach. The offices, refreshment-room, and
bookstalls are lighted with incandescent lamps of 16 c. p.,
handsome electroliers being supplied in the public rooms.
The generating plant is placed under the arches beneath the
viaduct, the -cable being led along the line to the station.
Two powerful compound engines have been supplied by
Messrs. Mather and Piatt, driving Edison Hopkinson
dynamos. The boilers are by Messrs. Galloway, and the
whole plant is in duplicate, with special arrangements for
interchange of service. The general arrangement of the
lighting has been arranged by Mr. W. G. Scott, the chief
engineer of the Cheshire Lines Committee, who are so well
pleased with the results that they have commissioned
Messrs. Mather and Piatt to make the necessary increase
in the plant for lighting the whole of the goods department.
Active preparations are now being made for the erection
of 76 1,000-c.p., 10 2,000-c.p. arc lamps and 65 16-c.p. incan-
descent lamps. The whole of the gas will then be replaced
by the electric light, the installation forming one of the
most important which has yet been supplied to any railway
company in the kingdom.
Stone-CarvinfiT by Bleotiioity. — Electricity has now
been put to many uses, the very latest being the working
of a machine which it is thought will revolutionise the art
of stone carving. The inventor is a Colorado man,
Mr. W. P. Carstarphen, and the invention is described in
the Denver Sun, and consists of a small reciprocating
electric drill. The tool is provided with a reciprocating
plunger, located and moving within the two solenoids of
insulated copper wire, through which a direct current of
electricity is alternately passed. The current for operating
the tool can be supplied from any suitable electrical source,
such as an ordinary primary battery or a dynamo, and is
simultaneously switched from one coil or set of coils to
the other by the use of an automatic switch placed
between the two coils and controlled by the recipro-
cation of the plunger. The current is led to one
end of the tool through a revolving swivel, and the
rapidity of the strokes made by the plunger is regulated
by a button on the side of the tool. In the model, which
is a 31b. tool, the stroke can be made to vary from ^in. to
lin., with a motion varying from 50 to 300 strokes per
minute. To run a tool of this size from four to six volts
only are required. Portable storage batteries, 12in. by 6in.
by 6in., have been made, which are encased in a neat box,
and intended for operating the tool on scafi'olds and
elsewhere away from the shop. These have energy
eu^cient for a day's work, and can be recharged
overnight at an expense not to exceed one shilling.
With this tool the carver or sculptor instead of dividing a
portion of his attention to striking his chisel, can devote
his entire attention to the lines which he is following, thus
producing more accurate and rapid work. It is estimated
that the machine will produce work in one-fourth the time
of hand work, and therefore a material reduction in the
cost will be secured. Although 61b. is the heaviest
tool constructed thus far, the principle of the machine can,
it is said, be carried into those of endless variety and size,
and suited to all purposes, from the most delicate sculpture
work to the heaviest of granite drilling and mine work.
Electric and Cable Railway Schemes. — In the
House of Commons on Tuesday Mr. Whitmore moved:
"That a Joint Committee of Lords and Commons be
appointed to consider the best method of dealing with the
electric and cable railway schemes proposed to be sanctioned
within the limits of the metropolis by Bills introduced, or
to be introduced, in the present session, and to report their
opinion as to whether underground railways worked by
electricity or cable traction are calculated to afford suffi-
cient accommodation for the present and probable future
traffic ; as to whether any, and which, of the schemes
propose satisfactory lines of route ; as to the terms and
conditions under which the subsoil should be appropriated;
whether any, and, if any, what, schemes should be pro-
ceeded with during the present session ; that a message
be sent to the Lords to communicate this resolution, and
desire their concurrence." He urged, in support of the
motion, that the proposal was supported by the Corpora-
tion and the County Council of London. He justified his
proposal for the creation of an unusual tribunal by pointing
out that electric and cable schemes were very numerous
and very important, and that it would be well for the future
comfort and convenience of London if, at the outset, an
authoritative enquiry by such a joint committee as he sug-
gested took place instead of referring Bills to different
committees. Mr. T. H. Bolton, in rising to second the resolu-
tion, said that he believed the reference would cover all
the important questions which might arise in connection
with these railways. Mr. Kimber moved, as an amend-
ment, to add the words, " Provided that such committee,
before reporting that any schemes for which Bills have
been deposited should not be proceeded with, shall have
first heard the parties promoting such Bills, and, if desired
by them, receive evidence thereon." Mr. Courtney thought
that the present would not be a convenient time to move
the amendment, and suggested that it should be with-
drawn. The amendment was then, by leave, withdrawn.
Mr. Isaacs, while entirely concurring in the resolution,
hoped that the committee would lay down some condition
by which promoters of any of these schemes would not be
allowed to interfere with the metropolitan lines. The
resolution was agreed to.
Croydon Tramways. — At the fourth half-yearly
general meeting of the Croydon Tramways Company held
on February 23rd at The Guildhall Tavern, Qresham street,
Mr. W. J. Carruthers-Wain (the chairman), with reference
to the question of traction said : " We have taken a step in
advance, I think, which I hope will redound to our credit
and to our spirit of enterprise, on the principle of heads
we win and tails we don't lose. In other words,
we have made arrangements with the Electric Tramcar
Syndicate, who have placed cars on our lines, that we
shall pay them so much a mile, that amount which we are
paying them per mile not being more than it costs us for
horse traction at the present time, and the surplus being
our property. I have had some figures prepaied, showing
the miles run by the electric cars since they were first put
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 4, 1892.
221
on. Of course, they have been running under difficulties of
weather and of incomplete installation, and other things
which a technical mind would easily understand ; but those
difficulties are being rapidly remedied, and I believe the
cars will be run very successfully. If they are not, it will
not be the fault of the inventor, Mr. Jarman. The number of
miles run by the electric cars in the month of January was
662, and they earned £39, which come out at the rate of
Is. 2^. per mile run. That, in such a month as we had
in January, is marvellous. Something is due no doubt to
the novelty of the traffic, but I go a little further than that,
for I believe that once you attract the public by a novelty,
you attract them afterwards. Is. 2^. is a return which
is not excelled by any other company, not even the great
companies. It is equalled by one, but it is not excelled
by any. That is an instance of the popularity of the elec-
tiic cars and of their success. There may be a few mechanical
alterations required, but so long as the financial part of
the burden does not fall upon us, I think we should do all
we can to help the syndicate to make the experiment suc-
cessful from their point of view. It has been suggested
that we should buy the cars and put up an installation.
Nothing would give me greater pleasure, if we had the
money ; but as we have not, and while people are ready to
come forward and put cars on our line, we can only say
that we will help them to the best of our ability. We have
no money to re-equip our line either with these cars or any
other cars. If this experiment is a success, I have no doubt
the Electric Tramcar Syndicate will be only too glad to put
on more cars, for their own benefit"
ManffaAin. — Prof. Ayrton in his presidential address
alluded to the lack of knowledge of many electrical engi-
neers to the new German alloy " manganin," which con-
stitutes a most useful material for the construction of
electrical resistances. We have received the following
particulars with reference to this alloy from Messrs. Abler,
Haas, and Angerstein, of 18, Kommandanten-strasse,
Berlin, and -23, Great St Helens, London, the sole agents
in the United Kingdom and abroad : Manganin is an alloy
of manganese, copper, and nickel, especially suitable, for
electrical purposes. It is recommended by Dr. K. Feussner
and Dr. St Lindeck of the Government Physico-technicai
Laboratory in Charlottenburg (Berlin). Manganin has,
according to the researches carried out in the above-men-
tioned laboratory, this most important quality, that it
undergoes an almost inappreciable change of resistance
with the variation of temperature. (See Dr. K. Feussner
and Dr. St. Lindeck, Zeitschrift fur Iiistrummtenkunde^ 1889,
p. 233 ; ZeUschriftfilr InstruTnentenhinde, 1 890, pp. 1 0 and 427 ;
Elektrotechnische Zeitschrift, 1890, p. 243). In the range
between Odeg. C. and 15deg. 0. the resistance slightly
increases at a mean rate of 0*002 to 0*003 per cent From
15deg. C. to 30deg. C. (which is the common range of tem-
perature in electrical measurements) the change of resistance
is imperceptible even to the most delicate observations, the
actual change being only a few millionth parts per degree.
At higher temperatures the resistance slightly diminishes.
This is the first authentic record of a metal diminishing in
resistance with rise of temperature. The s|)ecific resistance
of manganin is 42 microhm per centimetre cube, which is
much higher than the resistance of other German-silver
alloys. The specific resistance of manganin permits the
use of much smaller resistance-boxes, when the coils are
made of this material. On the other hand, when it is
employed for current-regulating resistances stronger currents
can be used with the same amount of material. In conse-
quence of these qualities manganin is a most important
material^ not only for resistance-boxes, for which it is
highly recommended, but also for voltmeters, and in
general for all kinds of electrical apparatus in which
constancy of resistance at different temperatures is required.
The use of manganin gives, therefore, much more trust-
worthy results than any resistance material hitherto known.
Manganin being very soft and pliable, tubes without
seams can be drawn for resistance purposes. These
tubes are supplied up to two metres in length and in various
diameters. Samples, testimonials, and further information
may be obtained on application at the London office, 23,
Great St. Helens, KC. It can be obtained in bare or in
silk-covered wire, and in plates from 0* 1 mm. to 4 mm.
thick.
Cambridge. — At the quarterly meeting of the
Cambridge Town Council held recently the Electric
Lighting Committee reported : " That the Town Council
has received an official communication from the Local
Government JBoard, in answer to the application of
the Corporation for permission to borrow the sum
of £35,000 for the purpose of electric lighting, giving
the sanction of the Board to the borrowing by the
Corporation of £25,840 for the above purpose. This
sum is, in the opinion of the committee, not sufficient to
enable the Council to carry out the scheme proposed by Prof.
Garnett, so far as regards any part of the town outside of
the compulsory area described in the provisional order.
Messrs. Parsons and Co. have made a proposal to the
committee to form a company for taking over the powers
and duties of the Corporation under the provisional order.
The committee recommend that they be authorised to
negotiate with Messrs. Parsons and Co. on the basis of
their proposal, and that, failing a satisfactory arrangement
with them, the committee be at liberty to negotiate
with some other firm or company for the taking over
of the corporate powers.'' Alderman Whitmore, in
proposing the adoption of the report, said it would
have been better if the Local Government Board had given
them sufficient money to go on with the entire work.
They had only granted £25,840 — merely the sum required
to supply the prescribed area, and not sufficient to carry
out Prof. Garnett's scheme. He thought they ought to
have sufficient money to extend the lighting to the whole
of the town. Mr. Vintner opposed any grant from the
rates to light any portion of the town ; but he thought the
advantage of the light should be within the reach of every
inhabitant of the borough. He hoped that it would be dis-
tinctly understood that any negotiations commenced would
be upon the basis of property reverting to the Corporation
upon reasonable terms and within a reasonable period.
He thought the application had not been properly sub-
mitted, as the loan of £25,840 did not admit of one
shilling for an alteration of plant or extension of mains.
Mr. Morley said the report was not worded according to
what the committee had decided. Their idea was to ask
the company for their terms, and then bring forward two
reports — one giving the cost for the Council to do the
work itself, and the other the terms of the company. He
suggested the mover allow the following words to be
added: "And bring before the Council two schemes —
first, for the Corporation lighting the prescribed area itself ;
and, second, the offer of any company." Mr. Flack pro-
posed, as an amendment, that the report should be referred
back to the committee. Mr. Huddleston seconded, remarking
that he trusted the report would go back with an under-
standing that if the company took the risk it should have
the profits also. It was not to be supposed that any company
would accept a contract for seven years also. After further
discussion, in which it was maintained that there was no
reason for the report being referred back, the amendment
was defeated and the re^rt ado^tod*
22^
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 4, 189^.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
Although the Exhibition may now be looked upon as
practically complete, a correapondent pointa out that oven
after this lapse of time from the opening the exhibitors
have not placed all the exhibits in position which they
neceasarily led the editor of the catalogue to believe would
be shown, The compiler of a catalogue ie perforce com-
pelled to take his lists of exhibits from the exhibitors, and
it ie the duty of the latter to install as quickly as possible
the aitparatua named, As we pointed out last week, the
Crystal Palace authorities notify deputations, but there are
visitors, really deputations, whose visit cannot be fore-
shadowed, yet these visits will lead to business. Take, for
example, the Lytbam Pier Company — a company which is
now erecting a pavilion at the bead of the pier. The
chairman of the company is coming to London within the
next few days to enquire into the matter of lighting the
we say, jointly exhibited at the Crystal Palace by Messrs.
JoboBon and Phillips and Messrs. Davey, Pazman,
and Go. The machine haa eight field poles projecting
radially inwards from a massive cast-iron yoke ring. The
magnet cores, which are cylindrical, are 14}in. diameter,
and the rectangular pole-pieces are also of cast iron. To
facilitate the insertion of the armature the yoke is made in
halves with horizontal joints ; the top half can be removed
by the lifting rings, The armature core is 48in. diameter
by 18in. long, and is built up of segmental plates threaded
on steel bolts and secured between strong cast-iron cheeks.
The power is transmitted to the armature conductors by 64
metal driving horns, insulated with fibre and mica, the
force transmitted by each driving horn being about 501b.
There are 362 bars on the armature, and the ends are con-
nected by B^mental plates insulated from each other and
mounted in cast-iron carriages, which latter are screwed to
the end cheeks above mentioned. This method of end
connections has the advantage of leaving the ends of the
Fumwi Bng<D«
pavilion by electricity. Such orders are not large com-
pared with central station work, but they are worth having,
even if only from the view that " business " leads to
" business."
From the exhibitor's point of view, the most important
visitors of this next week will be the members of the
Incorporated Association of Municipal and County Engi-
neers, who are to be expected on Friday, March lltb.
According to present arrangements, the members will visit
the Palace on Friday evening, and on Saturday, among
other visits, will see the West Brompton House-to-House
station and the Kensington Court station.
In our last issue we described the motor-generator in
use by the District Company for much of the Palace
lighting, a slightly modified form of which is to he seen at
the Electric Construction Company's stand in the Machine
Department. A little further down the Macbine Boom is
the conspicuous exhibit of Zhivy, Pazman, and Co.
and Johnson and PhilUpB, the former showing, among
other things, a three -cylinder engine coupled direct to a
Kapp dynamo, built by Messrs. Johnson and Phillips.
The ultutrationa re/tresent the Urge steam dynamo, as
3iipt«d to Empp Dynuno.
armature perfectly open, which admits of excellent ventila-
tion inside and of avoiding the crossing of conductors over
the ends, which in the old-fashioned way of drum winding
is BO frequently a source of trouble. The difference of
[>otential betwsen adjacent plates is only 10 volts.
The commutator contains 181 sections, and is 2Iin. in
diameter and 12in. long. The current is taken off by two
sets of brushes placed 135deg. apart, four brushes in each
set. The machine is designed for an output of 550 ampere*
at a voltage which can be varied at will, from 200 to 260
volts. For charging batteries when a smaller current is
required towards the end of the charge, the voltage
may be forced up to 300 volts. The speed of the machine
under all working conditions is intendei to be 130
revolutions per minute, hut as at the Crystal Palace a
voltage of 205 volts only is required, the engine governor
has been adjusted for a speed of 115 revolutions per
minute. The exciting power of the field magnets can be
varied by means of a rheostat so as to adjust the voltage
within the limits above mentioned. The brushes are
adjustable by worm gearing. The current from the
machine is used for Ughting the Picture Glallery by incan-
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 4, 1892.
dHoent bimpa (which have been fitted up by the Gtulcher
Oompany), also for some OuIcb«r arc wmpa, and for a
nnmber of Brockie-Pell lamM, ae well as for driring all
the machinery on Mewrs. Jahnsoa and Phillips's stand.
For thn latter purpose the current is pasied through a pair
of small balancing dynamos, which split up the voltage into
70 and 130 volts, so as to make the current suitable for
eharging cells and work the ordinary type of machines
•zhibited on the stand.
The engine is triple expansion, having cylinders 12in.,
ISJin., and 30in. aiameter respectively, with a uniform
strobe of 18in. It is bnilt for an indicated horse-power of
360, at 140 revolutions, or 320 i.h.p. at 130 revolutions and
earlier, keeping the speed constant The three main
eccentric rods are of best forged iron, finished bright, with
adjustable brushes. The automatic gear is of steel, with
forked joints, fitted with steel pins. The piston-rods, croaa>
heads, slippers, and valve spindles are of forged steel, the
latter being swelled to work in guides. The connecting-
rods are of best forged iron ; the flywheel is Sft. diameter.
Among the numerous displays of artistic electric light
fittings at the Crystal Palace Exhibition, we think the palm
for general elegance, beauty, and fitness of designs for the
electric light must be given to the stand of Hesars.
Faradar and Son. Other displays there are of great
beauty, especially where cut glass u extensively called into
Kipp Drnoixo Coupled to Tumsn Engliit.
1601b. steam pressure. The floor space, including platform,
la lOft. 6in. by 6ft. 9in., and from the floor line to top of
cylinder covers is 1 Ift, the extreme height to top of sight-
feed lubricators being Sit. 2in. more. The platform is
2fL 6iD. above floor level The steam is supplied from
Pazman's patent water tube boiler at 1301b. pressure, and
for the purpose of starting the engine in any position steam
can be ulmitted direct into the intermediate steam-chest.
The ciankriiaft is of mild steel, with slotted cranks 120deg.
apart, and runs in four long bearings. The governor is of
Faxman's improved design, extremely sensitive, keeping
the eogine under absolute control When the governor
Ufte it pulls over a link, bringing the short-throw eccentric
into Mtioo with expansion valve spindle, and cuts ofi* steam
play, as is the case with one well-known stand, and many
exhibitors show a great variety of elaborate and fanciful
fittings, which are more or less suitable for the artistic
decoration of houses with electric light. But if we examine
quietly the many beautiful fittings at Messrs. Faraday's
stand, the individuality and appropriateness of the designs
there shown are very striking. Aiid when it is mentioned
that the electric fittings at the exhibit which every'
acknowledges to be one of the features of the Exhib<''
that of Messrs. B. and J. Cooper — have been •'
out by Messrs. Faraday aud Son, it will ^^viought standard!
firm take in the present Exhibition, as^j^j ^^e so designed ••
a very high place in commending tjitcbing upon the wall for
light to tlie public.
234
THB ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 4, 1892.
The stand itaelf ie ywj characteriatically fitted up, with
wkUi hung with aerge of a eoft green tone, the columns,
arehea, and receaaea being dnped with velvet of warm
harmonioua tinU. The atoll ie roofed, with diaper ceiling,
and outoido the front ia canopied by a ailken awning
supported with Syrian apikea. Indian matting and Peraian
ruga cover the floors. On two aidea amall recesaed G^eorgian
windows are prettily inserted, shaded with feme in pota,
atand ia a large electrolier in ailver for 15 li^^te, *
for a large drawing-room, the fire triple sprays being
Bupported by caryatides. From the centre also huiga a fine
ballroom chandelier in chaaed metal, with oryital haagiaga.
A apeciality in this exhibit ia that of fittings having
taaseled bead ahadea hung around the inoandfleeant lamps,
which give a pleasing aubdued glow and loitaUy re^tlace
the glaae, ailk, or papier ahadea. A five-light ehandeher of
and through theae windowa delightful glimpses of the
long galleries, or the tropical palms and ferns that encom-
thth^iOt cax he obtained by the visitor,
DepaiY'i ie l^^id on for over 100 lamps, which are mounted
the conspitifittings. lo the centre of the wall is a fine
and JotanBon 9I Faraday, lighted by a suitable picture
other things, a thrtniling down on the handsome exhibit
Kapp dynamo, built bythe lights that glisten froiti all
Tie ^Jiuimdona rs/^radJleriea. In the centre o! the
by YnttOtj and Son.
delicate deaign is thus fitted, and haa a handsome appear-
ance. Other amaller pendant lampa are alao fitted with
theae tasaeled golden beads, and others with silver taaseli
of the same kind.
Persons of taste, with a desire for originality, will notice
with pleasure the swinging pendant of a flying dragon
carrying three lamps, while the reproduction of rompeian
oil-lampa, with their flame repreaented by a toreh-ehaped
froBted incandescent lamp, hu a very pleadng amet.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 4, 1892. 885
Another to be noticed is a light and graceful globe I The flying figure of Heronry, with wand and winged
of open metal, iwinging by c&aina and Burmonnted landala, carries a lamp at extended arm length, while ■
by a figure of Cupid with his bow. Little cupida in | Baochui alio fomu a taeteful Btaod for the same purpoM.
fact, are aeveral times invoiced to add the antique I There are quite a variety of chaud and wrought atandarda
mytiiioal flavour to the aoft light of the electric lamp, for portable table lamps, aome of which are so designed as
as for oomera of boodoiis or in the canopies of beda. | to be equally suitable also for bitching upon the wall tor
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 4, 1892.
nae as brackets or over-bed lamps, the shades being fitted
on trannions for reTening. A portable table lamp in
nieVelled silver, with sliding arm with a revolving action
for a shaded tamp, is also to be noticed. There are several
counterweight pendants specially designed for dreseing-
Ublee and for reading-desks.
A noticeable counterweight pendant, of peculiar design,
is that termed the " Perfect, deseed by Sir David
Salomons, and of which Meaars. laraday are the sole
makers. A reflector of saitable deiign is suspended by
three cords, each having a counterweight. The pendant
has then the peculiar advantage that it may be cant«d so as
to illuminate or cast into shade any portion of the room at
will. It is equally adapted to large or small lights, and to
cheap or costly fittings. That shown is suitable for a library
or writing-desk, and is prettily finished with small dolphins.
Several of Messrs. Faraday's fittings are furnished with
rint designs of wineed dragons or dolphins in bronse,
goats, ram's heads, swan's necks, and so forth, in
wrought, gilded, or oxidised metal. These are worked
into the wall fittings combined with the very elegant
lampholder long introduced by Faraday's, now made
sufficiently large to contain the bayonet jointed lamp-
bolder as generally used. These socket holders can be
of the kind now rendered fashionable by this firm. Sane*
tuarv lamps are also seen, swung by chains, and moulded
on old forms taken from Spanish and Florentine originals
of the sixteenth century, and these in pierced and emboased
hand-worked metal are peculiarly effective in toning the
glare of the electric lifiht for quiet comers.
In the " Princess Christian " rooms of Messrs. Oooper'i
exhibit, Messrs. Faraday have a variety of fittings in place.
There we find wrougbt-iron lobby lanterns, winmd dragons
carrying lamps, figures of Mercury and Iris helding lampa,
besides dolphins and cupids. In the Oriental room is a
reproduction of a Cairene brazier, Arabian painted glass
pendant vases, besides the centre pendant. The dining-table
is fitted with a handsome centre pendant, the bedroom
with silver Louie XVI. dressing- table bracket, Greek tripod
writing-table standard, pierced silver pendant, and cupid
lamps at the bed head. A very comfortable easy reading-
chair is fitted with movable electric bracket, as illustrated
in Mrs. J. E. H. Gordon's delightful book on electric
light decoration. Japanese anif Moresque fittings are
interspersed in corners, and the whole set of rooms diffused
with a soft and lovely glow. No one who visits the Exhi-
bition should leave without a good look at Messrs. Faraday
and Son's exhibits.
JL r Londbui'* Latqu Swltih.
Ilu I n_qni " Combbiman (Switch Will Sockat).
. NoD-Uignitla WBlch.
obtained alone in different material, hammered brass or
gilded metal, in the graceful forms of the lily, the tulip,
or the lotus, making the simple frosted incandescent bulb
into an harmonious thing of twauty.
Besides these fittings proper Messrs. Faraday show a
variety of shade-holders, or supports, in cast or pierced
metal, also floral in treatment. Screens, shades, and light
diffusers of various patterns, and mantles of sober tints
■often the glara of the naked electric light. Some lovely
samples of real Venetian glassware are also shown. One
method DOW very usual in high-class houses is well illus-
tmtod in this exhibit. This is to use wall brackets or
mtdlesticks with the globes screened by shells or tapestry
■hades from the eyes. These are made in a large number of
different shapes and tints, and produce a very beautiful
effect in a handsomely-decorated room.
Of switches and suety fuses Messrs. Faraday show some
<A their own design of fireproof material, but avoiding
the usual mechanical appearance given by many makers to
these necessary adjunctd. Being comparatively diminutive
and boxed in ivory or in silver cases, they are suitable for
any boudoir or drawing-room.
Amongst other fittings of fanciful and delicate design we
see swing baskets in light scroll metal for flowers, with
nuliating arms of simple design, from which are dropped
tiny pendant lamps. Single pendants for bbbies and bays
are shown, some taking the form of old Venetian cressets
ot the fifteenth century, othen with d^cate filagree work
Amongst novelties in switches a noticeable type is shown
by BIr. A. P. LnndlMrg, which he terms the "Unique"
switch, and those who have seen it will acknowledge the
term to be appropriate. "The want of a simple, easy-
working, and efficient switch, with no working parts to get
out of order, has led to the introduction of this pattern.
It consists of a key, cover, and base, all of porcelain. The
base is provided with a square recess, with a imall hole
in the centre, in which the centre pin of the key
revolves, ensuring in this manner central working
of the kev in the cover. The key is provided with
two helical springs, wound round pins fixed into iL
These springs, when the current is " on " make contact
with two brass terminal plates, overlapping the side of the
square recess, and connected vrith the circuit ; when the
current is turned "off" these springs occupy a similar
position against two other overlappiof; brass plates, not
in connection with the circuit. When the key is
turned in the proper direction — i.e,, to the right — these
helical springs are gradually wound up on the pins carry-
ing them, and pass over the surfaces of the brass plates.
On reaching the edges the power absorbed by the springs
comes into efi'ect, and they fly off independently of the
motion of the key, producing double independent quick
make or quick break of the circuit (according to their
initial position) in a manner far preferable to the objection-
able "loose key " method, so common in switches now in use.
The make and brwk of the circuit by this method is
Me electrical engineer, march 4, 1892.
2S?
practically iiiataDtanaouB, sparking beias thereby redaced
to a minimum. It h impouible to hold the key in any
poaition bo that sparking can wilfully occur, aa ia aometimea
done, in awitchea of the " loose key " type, by thoughtlesa
penons or servants. The switch key turns in one direc-
tion only, and a simple method ia prorided to prevent any
possibility of the key being turned in the wrong direction.
The terminal plates are kept clean by the constant rubbing
of th« helical Bprings over their sumcea, hut if from dust,
salt air, etc, any cleanaing should be required, the key can
be pulled apart from the base and the parts easily got at.
There is ab«olutely nothing togst out of order and cause
inconvenience to the user. 1%e principle of the switch
can be applied is modifications for double-pole switches and
others.
watchmakera who up to a short white ago had ever obtained
the highest certificate of excellence in watches from the
Kew authorities. We believe the particular watch tested
did not vary more than three seconds under any con-
dition in three months. This firm have at the Exhibi-
tion, just beaide the Machinery Department, a aland where
all kinda of watchea, unaffected by magnetiam, can be
seen, from leas than the bumble guinea up to fifty
or more. A continued source of intereat to ordinary
viaitors and electrical engineer* alike — for magnetism
ia no reapecter of persona — is an ironclad watoh,
sticking gracefully to the side of a small dvnamo,
specially fitted up to show the beauties of this timsKeeper,
which peacefully ticks away oblivious of " lineB of force."
The watchea are curiouuy termed " current-reaiatin^"
A ConwT ol th* EDUrtainmmt Court, Crritd Pi1>m.
An ingenious combination fitting, one of the many
modifications of the " Unique " awitch, ia also shown. It
coDBiata of a wall socket, portable plug, and awitch com-
bined in one fitting. In construction and mode of working
it IB similar to the " Unique " switch before described, with
this difference — the key of the " Unique " switch being
replaced by a revolving centre, provided with two tube
receptacles for the two contact pina of the portable plug to
fit into. A cut-out ia also provided if required. The com-
bination of these important parts of an installation reduces
the expense incurred by the use of separate fittings to
pnctically the cost of one, less work being alao expended
in their initalladon.
An exhibit that will touch electrical engineers in a weak
place is that of HeHn. S. Siulth uid Sana, who show
a luge aseortment of non-magnetiaable watches. The
fina an well known amongst horologista as the only
though thia ia a misnomer of the makers — a current would
soon fuse the works — but against maftuetiam there is
no doubt the watch ia proof, axd a great boon it most
be to engineers of central stations or travellers on the
underground railway. We are to see a amall piece (rf
apparatus for demagnetising ordinary watches at work here,
for those who desire, though we are afraid there will not
be much chance of a clear escape for an ordinur watoh
from the Machinery Hall at thia Exhibition. 'At firm
bold some very good testimoniala from well-known men
in electrical work.
Our illustration thia week is a corner of the Entertain-
ment Court, where Messrs. Phillips and Ueasra. Laing,
Wharton, and Down combine in producing eSeetive duigns
for furnishing and lifting dining-rooms. Even JleMta.
Laing, Wharton, and Down go so far as to provide the
spider on the wall.
228
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 4, 1892.
THE
tLECTRICAL ENGINEER.
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NotM 217
The Crystal Palaot Exhibi-
tion .^ 222
The Telephone Problem 228
Correepondence 229
A Deecription and Com-
parison of the Metiiods
of Electric Lighting at
Present in Use m London 229
Design and ConstracUon of
DyuBmoB ....- 231
Electric Tramways on the
Overhead or Trolley Wire
System 235
Portsmouth 236
Electricity up to Date 238
Companies* Meetings • 238
New Companies Registered 240
Business Motes 240
Provisional Patents, 1892 ... 240
Companies* Stock and Share
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THE TELEPHONE PROBLEM.
It is understood that the Duke of Marlborongh
holds a brief for the New Telephone Company,
hence his statements in the New Beview of this
month mnst be taken as those of a partisan. He
assumes there will be no contradiction of his
sweeping denunciation that '' the only line of
importance we possess which has been laid in a
proper manner is the Paris-London line/' and
asserts that his clients want ** to produce as good a
result all over England as is attamed on the Paris-
London line " ; also " there is no difficulty whatever
in accomplishing this result all over England." He
contends that ** during the ten years of the existence
of the monopoly of the telephone patents the
business of the telephone in this country has been in
the hands of one company, who, for various reasons,
have not developed the industry." We are not
going to combat these views, except so fftr as to
restrict the condemnation to the London district. If
this restriction is not made, we must say that the
telephomc progress made elsewhere in two or three
districts is as much as could have been expected.
With regard to London, there is no good system,
there never has been a good system, and under
the National Company it may be doubted if ever
there can be a good system. We are not even
inclined to credit the London administration with
empiricsdly feeling its way. The Duke of Marl-
borough says, '' It should be remembered that they
have had to work their way from early beginnings,
when the principles of the business were little
understood." As a matter of fact, the early history
of the National Telephone Company is one of
company-mongenng. The aim was purely Stock
Exchange quotations. Any system of working was
good enough to run the concern with, and when the
men who played ducks and drakes with what ought
to have been one of the finest industrial concerns in
the land left the concern, their successors, who
have worked like Trojans during the past few
years, found it a task beyond the powers of men to
repair the mistakes made by their predecessors.
The action of successive Governments as regards
telephony has been almost incomprehensible. No
one outside of official circles has ever been able to
understand the policy which purchased the telegraph
system, maintained that telephony was another form
of telegraphy, got the Courts to legally certify it is
so, and then permitted private companies to under-
mine the business of the Postal Telegraph Depart-
ment. Many of the Govemmeut departments are
ready to expend money in promising experiments ;
and, surely, from the first telephony was promis-
ing enough. The expenditure to test it to any
extent was not much; and yet the policy went
forth — let private people test it, and we will be
satisfied with a royalty. Good ; then if the Gk)vern-
ment now wishes to get rid of telephony — which is
destined, whether the officials admit it or not, to
have a very serious e£fect upon telegraphy — the
price must be paid. There are three ways of dealing
with the matter in order to obtain as perfect a
system as is known. The Government can pass a
Bill with as compulsory powers resting in the Board
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 4, 1892,
229
of Trade as now rest for electric lighting. Why
there should be interference on every hand with
lighting, and not with telephony, is another matter
which is past ordinary mental comprehension.
Snch powers, however, would compel a riddance of
the existing London system in double-quick time. The
Grovemment might buy out the existing companies,
which, unless under a compulsory purchase, means
paying a high price for what is in fact almost valueless.
A third way is for the Government to compete with
those to whom it has granted licenses. Such com-
petition is hardly to be suggested. It would be
mijust to grant a license, allow the spending of
money, and then enter into competition. The
Duke of Marlborough mentions a fourth course —
that the Government own all trunk lines, and
permit licensees to work the towns. That plan
may be workable ; we doubt it. We are quite in
accord, however, with the Duke when he states that
a much better system can be devised than the one
existing, and at a much cheaper rate. It is practi-
cally certain that if the New Telephone Company gets
its Bill through Parliament and starts to work, the
end of the National Telephone system in London is
close at hand. The bad system cannot exist in
competition with the good. The telephone cannot
be said to have lost headway in London solely
because of its ineffectiveness. We were compelled
to refuse insertion in our last issue to complaints as
to the telephone service, because under the exist-
ing law we should have had to defend a libel
action, even though our correspondent and a
dozen others were ready to testify to the truth
and accuracy of the assertions made. The best way
out of the difficulty is for the Government to do the
work itself; the next best way is to support some
such company as the New Telephone Company,
which has proved its contention in the work done at
Manchester, and so aid business and social London
to attain the full benefit of one of the most wonder-
ful and most useful inventions of the age.
CORRESPONDENCE
" One man's word U no man's word
Jn8tic« need! ttaat both be beard.
t.
ELECTRIC TRAMWAYS.
Sir, — In your issue of February 26, you publish a letter
from Messrs. Waller and Manville taking exception to my
paper on " Electric Tramways on the Overhead or Trolley
Wire System."
^ I am surprised at the tone of Messrs. Waller and Maii-
Tille's letter, and at the deduction they draw in their con-
elading paragraph.
As an independent electrical engineer, I have been
guided entirely by my judgment and experience in con-
necting myself with any particular system for traction
work, and X after due thought, selected the company whose
system I considered the best, and whose business methods
have always commanded my highest admiration.
My paper was written upon the " Overhaul or Trolley
Wire System," and not upon conduit systems, and I only
stated what is a matter of common knowledge in reference
to conduits, and with no desire to do more than justice,
and to give only statements of facts in reference to all
systems.
Messrs, Waller and Manville will be in a much better
position and be better able to express such sentiments as
are contained in their communication to you, when they
have found someone besides themselves with a sufficient
belief in their system to put down and work the same. In
the meanwhile I can only trust that such a party will soon
be found, and that they may have an opportunity of
displaying their " wares '' in actual service.
Thanking you in anticipation for this space in your
valuable paper, I am, with best wishes for electrical systems
generally (including conduits) — ^Totirs, etc.,
W. Gibson Carky.
35, TParliament-street, S.W., Feb. 29, 1892.
CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
Sir, — When next you go to see the Electrical Exhibition
at the Crystal Palace you may find some amusement in
buying a catalogue, looking it carefully through, and then
starting to find some of the exhibits mentioned therein.
Tou can first go and look for the electrical fire engine, then
try to find the welding apparatus, then the coal-cutting
machine and the rock drill, after that try the " lift," so
called, no doubt, on the lucus a nan lucendo principle,
although you may not think the way good. You
should then go and see the 100,000 Hedgehogs do their
" high volt " transformations ; then you had better
go in and hear some music beautifully played by Mr.
Mann's talented orchestra. This will relieve your mind, and
give you an appetite for a good dinner at Bertram's table
d'Mte before undertaking the dismal railway journey
home. — Yours, etc. X.
P.S. — ^In my last week's letter the word " choir " should
be " chair."
A DESCRIPTION AND COMPARISON OF THE
METHODS OF ELECTRIC LIGHTING AT PRESENT
IN USE IN LONDON.""
BY ALEXANDER B. W. KENNEDY, F.R.S., M.I.C.E., ETC.
(Continued from page 186.)
A perfect transformer ought always to give in its
secondary circuit exactly the same amount of energy as
that which has passed through its primary circuit. No
actual transformer does this, but the efficiency of good
transformers at their full load is very high — often over 90
per cent. But the full load of a house transformer corre-
sponds to the current necessary for all the lights in the
house ; the transformer must of necessity be large enough
to allow for this. All the lights in a house, however, are
not on at once half-a-dozen times in the year ; in general
the maximum load in a house is less than half its
full number of lamps; its average load not more than
a quarter, and, of course, for many hours out of every 24
no lamps are burning at all, so that the load is zero. Unfor-
tunately, the losses in the transformer continue all the 24
hours, whether or not there is any current passing through
the secondary coil. These losses are more or less propor-
tional to the full load for which the transformer is designed,
and, taking all together, they are most serious. Such
authentic statistics as I have been able to obtain show that
the consumption of coal in a central station per unit passed
through customers' meters is at least twice as great with
the high-tension companies as with the low-tension, the
figures being I71b. to 201b. with the one, 81b. to 101b.
with the other. The greater part of this difference is
probably due to the transformer losses. In fact, a
company which has 500 transformers in its customers'
houses is practically keeping as many small fires burning
day and night in as many cellars at its own expense. Of
course, whatever these losses may be, they do not affect
the meter readings, and the customer has not got to pay
for them. To remove these losses a change in methoa is
now proposed, and I believe the London Company, at leasts
are taking active steps in this direction. The proposal
is to remove the transformer from the customers houses
altogether, and to concentrate the transforming plant at
* Reprinted from the TroMotticna of the Royal Scottish Society
of Arte, vol. zitt., part 1. Read May 11, 1891.
230
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCS 4, 1892.
certain sub-stations, where the load will never be zero and
where the number of transformers in use can be altered
from hour to hour as the load varies, so that the instruments
actuallv in use can always be worked with fair economy.
This change, the wisdom' of which I do not doubt, and
which is being advocated most strongly by some of our
best engineers, is a very far-reaching one indeed, although
it seems at first to affect only a matter of detail. For,
in reality, it necessitates giving up at once three-quarters of
the high-tension mains, and laying new low-tension mains
suitable for 100 volts pressure, from each sub-station over
the whole district, exactly as in a low-tension system. If
this has to be done, it is obvious that the greater part of
the saving in first cost due to the use of high-tension mains
disappears at once, and, as the system of " banking " trans-
formers is as yet very little practically known, it remains
to be seen to what extent it attains in practice the results
expected of it. I understand that this is the system which
it is proposed to use in the City of London itself, by the
new company which has just been started for the purpose
of lighting that district.
The low-tension companies try, as far as possible, to use
bare copper strip carried on porcelain or glass insulators.
This strip is enclosed in concrete culverts or iron conduits.
The advantage of its use is clear, when it is remembered
that the cost of the ordinary indiarubber insulation of any
cable is considerably greater than the actual cost of the
copper insulated. The use of bare copper, properly insu-
lated, is quite safe up to a pressure of about 200 volts, but,
of course, is impracticable with high pressures.
The systems adopted by the Tow-tension companies in
London vary somewnat among themselves, but have certain
points in common. All of them use continuous currents,
and all of them but one are schemed to generate electric
energy at a pressure of about 200 volts (not 100), so as to
save to this extent in their mains. The distribution to
houses at 100 volts, without the use of transformers or any
other apparatus, is effected by a subdivision of the 20O
volts into two sections or parallels of 100 volts each (by
the use of what is called a third wire), and dividing the
consumers, as evenly as may be, between the two sections.
Fig. 3 shows the way in which lights can be put on a
"loo'r
— •♦
r^wrd tfvre
FmmcUn^ J^lnjunm
F^
CmntroL Si€LUon*
\
ioor
Distributing -Mauns
ZO09r
CerUrai^StcUz^fi
rv
lOoK
-*L^
looir
tooK
HUie^
(Kensvnffion C^
Nousm
FlOS. 3 AND 4.
Hot4S€'
The mains used by low-tension companies generally
divide themselves into two parts, which are called feeding
and distributing mains respectively. The latter are the
mains to which the house services are directly attached,
and which cover the whole of the streets in the district.
They are common to all systems of low-tension distribution,
and will have to be used equally by alternating-current
systems, if these adopt transformer sub-stations in the way
just alluded to. The cost of the distributing mains is con-
siderably very much more than half the totol cost of the
mains — a point to be kept in view. Feeders or feeding
mains are lines radiating directly from the central station,
and carrying current from it to certain fixed points, called
feeding points, where they join the distributing mains.
These feeders are the mains which have the largest section
of copper, but they are few in number, and their total
length is not nearly so great as that of the distributing
mains. In a modified high-tension system, such as men-
tioned above, each feeder would be replaced by a line of
very much smaller sectional area of copper, having a sub-
station with transformers at the point where it joins the
difftributing mains.
three-wire system in this fashion. As compared with direct
distribution at 100 volts, there is in this arrangement the
very great economy that the amount of energy carried
by means of a given section of copper is double, while the
difficulties of insulation are not considerably increased. The
three-wire system is shown in Fig. 3 as it is carried out
by the St. James's Company. Two dynamos, D and Dj,
are connected " in series — that is to say, the positive pole
of one to the negative pole of the next Each dynamo
generates current at 100 volts pressure. The difference in
pressure, therefore, between the positive and negative mains
is 200 volts. A middle, or thira wire (shown by a dotted
line in all the figures), is connected between the dynamos,
and is carried round the circuit, the houses, B B, etc., being
placed alternately on the one and the other parallel (as
sketched) so that the pressure in the house is never more
than 100 volts. If an exactly equal number of lamps was
alight at any time on each of the two parallels, no current
would pass through the third wire. But, under ordinarjr
circumstances, the number of lamps on the two parallels is
not exactly equal, and one of the dynamos will have to work
a little harder than the other to make up the difference.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER. MARCH 4, 1892.
231
The use of storage batteries or accumulators is possible
only upon a continuous-current system. As to the use and
economy, or otherwise, of batteries, there has been very
warm controversy. In London, Mr. B. E. Grompton, the
engineer of the Kensington and Knightsbridge Company,
has always been the leading advocate for their use, and has
succeeded in very greatly improving their design. I am
uaing them in my own district, and, while admitting that it
is possible to exa^erate their advantages, I find them so
useful that I could on no account be without them. The
St. James's Company, on the other hand, whose conditions
of working are no doubt somewhat special, scarcely use
tbem at all, and have been very successful without them.
My plan in the work of the Westminster Company has
bean to use them as a stand-by and regulator during work,
and for taking up the whole load during the small hours
of the morning, or at other times of minimum demand,
thus allowing the station to be entirely "shut down."
This is a matter of which the immense advantage
and convenience probably appeals more to the engineer
than to the consumer. I pass from 5 to 6 per cent
of the whole of the current generated through the
batteries, and on that fraction I lose, on account
of the imperfect action of the batteries, 15 or 16 per cent,
measured in energy. I therefore pay something under 1
per cent, in total efficiency as the price for the convenience
of using batteries, even supposing that they do not (as I
believe they do) very much more than make up for this,
by obviating the necessity for working boilers and engines
at all during hours of minimum demand. The system
used, and I believe originated, by Mr. Crompton is
sketched in Fig. 4. It will be seen that the batteries
are placed in parallel with the dynamos, and the third
wire connected to the middle of the battery only, and not
to the dynamos. Instead of two dynames in series, one
dynamo only is used, and it generates cnrrent at 200 instead
of at 100 volts. ^xo be continued.)
DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF DYNAMOS.''
BY T. ROOKE.
In considering the design and construction . of dynamos,
let us devote oar attention first to continuous-current
dynamos, and later we will pass on to consider some of the
more prominent alternate-current machines that have of
late come to the front in connection with the electrical
transmission of energy.
First, then, the design of a continuous-current dynamo
resolves itself into the treatment of two factors — the mag-
netic circuit and the electric circuit — and each of these may
be considered to a certain extent separately. The com-
mercial dynamo is always made with electromagnets. Some-
times they are self-excited, and at other times, such as
Fio. 1.
with alternate-current dynamos or high-pressure continuous-
enrrent machines, they are separately excited. The iron
in a dynamo which constitutes the magnetic circuit is made
up of four parts — the two limbs, the yoke, and the arma-
ture core ; besides these, and the most important of all, is
the air gap. These parts can easily be seen from Figs.
li 3, 3, 4, and 5, which represent various forms of arrange-
^ Paper read before the Stndents of the Institnte of Civil Engi-
iieen at Birmingham, Feb. 4th, 1892.
ment. These iron parts have first to be designed to
give the highest efficiency with the least weight, and often
space has to be taken into account as well. In the early
B
Fig. 2.
days of dynamo designing the cross-section of the armature
core in cylinder machines was very small, in proportion to
that of the field magnets, the copper in the armature was
/"
1
\
Fio. 3.
excessive, and the air gap large. Increasing the iron and
decreasing the copper on the armature was found to im-
prove the machine, it kept cooler, and did not require so
Fig. 4.
much magnetising force to give the same output. At present
with most makers the ratio of the iron cross-section in
the armature to that in the field magnets is between 1 to f
and 1 to 1.
Fig. 6.
The magnetic induction at which machines usually work
varies according to the quality of the iron used, but is
somewhere about 15,000 lines per square centimetre in
wrou^ht-iron^field magnets, which are pretty well saturate<l.
232
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 4, 1892.
The armature is slightly undet -saturated in order to keep
the loss from hysteresis as low as possible. The air gap
must be kept as small as is mechanically possible, for, as
will be seen, it causes the greatest amount of magnetic
resistance to the passage of the lines of force. For this
reason, in large machines it becomes best only to wind one
layer of wire on the armature; small machines have
frequently two layers, but this depends entirely on the
KM.F. required.
Bearing in mind the best proportion of the armature to
the field magnets, and the necessity of keeping the air gap
small^ the first condition to be fulfilled is that
E is the KM.F. in volts ; N is the total magnetic induc-
tion in the armature, or the total useful magnetic induction;
n is the number of revolutions of the armature per second;
C the number of conductors counted all round the outside
of the armature ; and 10^ is the ratio of the practical unit
to the absolute unit of KM.F. With these requirements
it is not difficult to decide on the sectional area of the
different parts of the magnetic circuit.
As regards the yoke which connects the limbs of the
A generally applicable formula has been given by Dr.
Hopkinson. Let N be the total magnetic induction through
the armature necessary to induce the E.M.F.| E, at the
specified speed, n. The magnetising power, or magneto-
motive force, of % amperes passing S times round a magnetic
conductor is 4 ir S i-^ 10. N being in O.O.S. units, t has to
be divided by 10, as it is in practical units. The magnetic
resistance to lines of force is proportional to the length of
their path and inversely proportional to the sectional area
of the circuit, and the permeability of the iron. Suppose,
then, the three parts of the magnetic circuit L - average
length of lines ot force in the armature core, ot which die
sectional area is A^, and the permeability fi. This part
of the magnetic circuit will have a resistance of ^ ■ '
Similarly, for the two air gaps, if the length of path across
each from iron to iron be called l^ and the area of each
polar surface A^ the magnetic resistance these two offer
will be 2 ^1 ft being for all non-magnetic substances equal
Aa
to 1. Similarly, for the iron field magnets writing /, for
length of path through iron from pole to pole, A3 for
•
15000
^_JK2Ji
a;22-— ■
0
10000
0
z
0
_j^
JCf^ —
sioo^
kJ
2
•
•
n
— k
1ACNL
ISINC
11
FOdC
li
•
- IJ
I
Fio. 6.
magnet, it is not of great consequence as to its exact shape,
nor vet whether it is of cast or wrought iron, it being
merely necessary to have it large enough to conduct the
lines of force without throttling them; and comparing the
induction curves for cast and wrought iron, Fig. 6, it will
be seen that the area of the yoke, if cast iron is used, must
be at least two and a half times that of wrought iron.
Having arrived at the sectional area of the magnetic
circuit, the next thing is its shape. . In shape, the chief
objects to attain are cheapness of construction and con-
venience in winding, keeping the magnetic circuit always
as short as possible. For cheapness, small dynamos are
often built with wrought-iron cylinder limbs and cast-iron
voke and pole-pieces. For large machines a cylinder
becomes awkward, as it takes up so much more room, and
the pole-pieces would have to be so massive, so the
whole magnet limb is built up of iron rails, or forged in
one piece and made rectangular in section. The number
of poles is generally limited to two for ordinary machines ;
four are sometimes used, principally for large machines
giving heavy currents, although even more have been used.
Let us proceed to the winding. The wires on the
armature are calculated from the formula already given,
E - ^9g . The most difficult part of the winding to cal-
culate, however, is that on the magnets, and it is done as
follows.
sectional area, fi^ for permeability, the magnetic resistance
will be — §---. Adding these three resistances together,
we get as the total resistance of the magnetic circuit the
value —
/*! Ai Aj ^3 A3
The total number of magnetic lines is equal to the
magneto-motive force over magnetic resistance, or
10
t^i
'1
+ 2
/.
L
}
A^ Aj /A3 A3
Dr. Hopkinson expressed this formula a little more
generally — as follows :
^-'./(^)^H(^.'./(|;).
For each part of the magnetic circuit he plotted a curve
representing each of these functions, and from them he then
plotted a resultant curve which was the characteristic of
the magnetic circuit.
Having thus got a formula or curve for calculating the
exciting power necessary for the field magnets of a dynamo,
we must next introduce a coefficient of leakage or a correc-
tion to allow for the leakage of lines of force. This
cannot be calculated beforehand with any accuracy for a
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 4, 1892.
233
new type of machine, but must be obtained from experi-
ment---a list of valuee is given for varioos well-known types
which are most commonly met with.
CoBRionoNs roR Lbakaoe of Lines of Force.
Tfpe of Dynamo. Valne of «*.
EdiKm-HopkinaoD ' 1*32
SicmflDS 1-30
Manoliester 1-49
Owing to the spreading of the induction, it is necessary
to assume the air gap as having an extension beyond the
polar area equal to *8 of the distance between the armature
oore and the polar surfaces. The formula thus corrected
becomes
Having calculated thus as nearly as possible the number
of ampere - turns to be wound on to the magnets of a
machine, the resistance of the magnet coils and me current
flowing in them is calculated in accordance with the
E
well-known formula Cb~.
The next thing we come to is ventilation and cooling,
possible current from the armature, and, keeping this
constant, take observations of the magnetising force and
E.M.F., the field being weakened down step by step until
it is just possible, by adjustment of the brushes, to run
without sparking. Repeat the experiment for a less current
in the armature ; then for a smaller still, until there is a
series of curves representing the relation between the
magnetising force and the KM.F. for several different values
of the ampere-turns on the armature. This load diagram
will tell us everything we wish to know about the man^netic
circuit of a machine having these particular dimensions,
and about the interference ox the armature with the field
circuit ; it tells us the ampere-turns required for any
induction on open circuit, or, in other words, the magnetis-
ing force required for the shunt only ; if the machine is to
be compounded, it tells us how many ampere-turns must be
added to raise the KM.F. by a required amount with an^
current flowing, or to compensate any armature load ; it
tells us how we can over-compound the machine; and
lastly, just how far we can weaken the field for any load,
without producing sparking.
Proceeding now to the actual construction of dynamos,
let us first consider the most important part — namely, the
armature. All continuous-current dynamos of practical
importance at the present moment can be grouped under
thtee headings : 1. Dynamos with drum armatures wound
L£^
"Fin, 7. — Elwell-Parker Dynamo.
both of armature and magnets, for a certain amount of
energy must always be lost in a machine on account of its
electrical resistance, and this energy is converted into heat
and must be dissipated, especially as the resistance of
copper is increased rapidly by an increase of temperature.
This area for dissipating heat varies considerably, as do
most other things, in different types of machines by diffe-
rent makers, and besides this the temperature of the
place in which the dynamo has to work must be taken into
account, if any fixed rule is to be given. Mr. Kapp gives,
with a surface speed of 2,000' to 3,000' per minute, cooling
■nr&ce ought to be '8 to 1 square inch for every watt trans-
formed into heat in the armature wires; magnets 1*5 to
1*8 square inch, but this rule cannot be fixed within con-
siderable limits for the reasons given above. These rules
are the nearest possible approximation for calculating
beforehand the proper dimensions of a dynamo with
a ffiven output, but it must not be forgotten that they are
Ofuy an approximation, although a cu>se enough one for
practical use. A dynamo having been completed, its per-
formance should be recorded in such a manner that we snail
be able to tell at a glance what a machine of similar carcase
dimensioDS will give under any circumstances. First, the
machine is run on open circuit, and the relation between
the ampere-turns on the magnets and the E.M.F. estab-
lished, vfhilst running at the same speed take the greatest
on the Hefner alternate principle. 2. Dynamos with
cylindrical armatures wound on the Gramme principle.
3. Dynamos with disc armatures wound on the Schuckert
principle.
The first type is represented by many makers, such as
Edison, Siemens, the Electrical Construction Corporation,
etc. The second type used to be represented by the
largest number, but many of them now build the first type.
The third type is made by the Brush Company and the
Gulcher Company. From a scientific point of view all
these machines, though of such wide variety of design and
general arrangement, can be treated in a similar manner,
and in all cases the E.M.F. in the armature is expressed by
the formula E ^^ . The complication arises in deter-
mining the coefficients of leakage, depending on the shape
of the field magnets. The great object in most of these
armatures is to get the greatest KM.F. fi;enerated with the
least length of copper wire. Some parts of the armature
are useless so far as this goes, such as the inside wires of a
Gramme machine, and the end winding of a drum armature,
and in the early daysof dvnamo design this gave rise toendless
complicated forms of field ma^ets. It is, however, evident
that all armatures are not alike in this respect Mr. Kapp gives
the following figures : The length of wire per volt ^enented
in different armatures having the same magnetic mdactjon
234
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 4, 1892.
per square centimetre of armature core is, for drum 6*5in.
to 16*4iD., cylinder 21'8ia. to 26'lin., disc (square or
circular core) 26 'Sin. The above table shows the great
superiority of the drum over any other armature. The
long cylinder comes next, but is not generally employed in
modern machines on account of vibration in the spindle.
The tendency is to use short cores in order to reduce the
distance between the bearings. Gores of equal length
and diameter are often used. The flat ring wMch
was extensively used in the early days of disc arma-
tures is still worse as regards the length of wire
required to wind it, requiring three times as much wire as
the short cylinder. At one time, a very narrow and deep
ring was considered the best form to be given to the core
of a Gramme armature, as thereby a great expansion of
polar surface could be obtained, thus bringing the whole of
the wire under the direct influence of the magnets. Expe-
rience has shown, however, that this is a fallacy. For
continuous-current machines used for incandescent lighting
and plating, drum armatures are almost universally used,
now that it is possible to ensure good insulation, which was
at first one of the difficulties with this type of armature.
Machines such as the Thomson-Houston and Brush are
used chiefly for running arc lamps in series, as they are
more easily regulated as constant-current machines. They
are unique dynamos in construction, which it is hardly
necessary to describe more fully here.
The construction of armatures is as follows : The old
Gramme was made up of either very thin circular iron
washers insulated from one another generally by varnish or
paper, or else it was made up of a coil of charcoal iron
wire wound on a former. This former was taken away,
the iron wire core insulated by winding on tape, which was
then varnished over ; the coils were then wound on and
the whole connected, and mounted on the driving shaft on
a block of wood — the driving power was transmitted from
the shaft simply by friction, and for small dynamos this
was sufficient. To prevent the external wires from flying
out when the armature was driven at a high speed, they
were bound in by bands of brass wire passed round the
armature, and insulated from the conductors by mica.
Elwell-Parker Gramme armatures used to be built up of a
wire core wound directly on to a brass spider, or frame-
work of radial arms ; to keep the core true, a light cut
was taken over it after every two or three layers of wire
bad been wound on. The conductor on these armatures
was driven partly by friction, partly by the coils pressing
on the sides of the radial arms. It was usual to put only
one layer of conductors on these armatures. Of course,
there are modifications in the building of armatures by
diflerent makers ; but we have only space to consider the
main features of each type.
The old Pacinotti armature, which is a hollow cylinder
like the Gramme, was always built of sheets of charcoal
iron, insulated from one another ; it has on its surface pro-
jecting teeth. The object of these teeth was partly to
diminish the magnetic resistance of the air gap, and partly
to act as drivers to the wire coils. It was found, however,
that with the diminished clearance between the projections
and polar surfaces the magnetic induction exerted by the
projections on the polar surfaces absorbed a considerable
amount of power in heating the pole-pieces with local
currents, and no amount of subdivision could get over it
The ordinary drum armature is built up of a lot of thin
discs of charcoal iron insulated from one another by varnish,
paint, or paper. Sometimes they are fitted on to the square
shaft, at other times they are keyed on to the shaft, and
are then pressed together between end plates till they are
fairly well solid, the end plates being made of bronze, or
non-magnetic metal. The armature core is then turned up
true with a very sharp tool, so as not to burr the edges of
the thin plates, and the outside is insulated with cloth,
varnish, and mica, and the coils are then wound on the
armature, sometimes in one layer, sometimes in two. In
a drum-wound armature with only one layer of wire the
full potential of the dynamo will be between every
two adjacent wires, and special care must therefore
be paid to their complete insulation from one another.
With two layers of wire on the armature, as in
hJjfh'tenuon machines, the full potential of the machine
is between the two layers, which are more easily insulated
by a sheet of cloth and mica strips. These are cloee-coil
armatures — that is, they have all their coils in series with
one another, forming a closed circuit. Thomson-Houston
and Brush machines are the two principal open-coil arma-
tures The shape and construction of magnets has already
been discussed under the treatment of the magnetic circuit
The coils for magnetising them are wound on bobbins and
slipped on. Sometimes, but not often, the coils are wound
directly on to the magnet limbs, in which case they cannot
be taken off except by unwinding. The commutator, or
collector, is generally made as shown in the section, or is
some slight modification of it. A number of copper bars
having lugs left at each end are milled up so as to fit
together and form a hollow cylinder. These bars are
held together by insulated iron rings passed over the
lugs, and are insulated from one another by mica.
The whole is insulated and mounted on a cast-iron core,
which is keyed on to the shaft. Bearings are generally
of white metal. Brushes are held on insulated pifiars, and
their pressure on the commutator is regulated by means of
a spring, the pressure being just sufficient to ensure good
contact They are made of pure copper. Either a number of
thin sheets are laid together and one end of the layer
soldered up, or they may be made of a number of copper
wires soldered at one end, or, what is perhaps best for a
good dynamo, they may be made of gauze. The advantage
of a gauze brush is that it does not cut the commutator at
all, like wire or plate brushes ; the disadvantage is that on
a bad dynamo which sparks a lot, the gauze rapidly wears
away. In order to avoid sparking, it is necessary to adjust
the brushes to the load of a machine, and this is generally
done by means of a rocker fixed to the pedestal or bearing,
and capable of being turned through an arc round the
commutator.
Let us pass on to alternate-current dynamos. These
have lately come forward very prominently in the distribu-
tion of power at a high tension, and its conversion to a low
tension by means of the alternate-current transformer. In
these machines alternate currents are induced in the arma-
ture coils by causing the amount of magnetic induction
through them to alternately increase and decrease. Most
frequently there is not simply an alternate increase and
decrease, but a rapid reversal in the direction of the
magnetic induction. In some of these machines, as in the
majority of continuous-current dynamos, the armature part
rotates whilst the field magnet part stands still. In others,
however, the armature part — that is to say, the part from
which the alternating current is to be obtained — is a fixture,
whilst the field magnets are made to rotate. In a third
class of machine, both armature part and field-magnet part
are fixed, the amount of magnetic induction passing from
the latter through the former being caused to vary or
alternate in direction by the rotation of appropriate pieces
of iron. In the older machines, the field magnets were
either of steel permanently magnetised, or else electro-
magnets separately excited. About 1869 began the
practice of making these machines self-exciting by
diverting a small current from one or more of the arma-
ture coils separated from the rest, and this current was
rectified or made continuous by being passed through a
crown commutator, and thence to the field magnets. These
crown commutators are not generally used now, it being
more convenient either to mount a small continuous-curreut
armature on the shaft of the alternator, and thus obtain
the exciting current. If the alternator runs at too low a
speed for this, the exciter is driven by a belt from an
exciter pulley fixed on the alternator shaft For collecting
the alternating main current of the dynamo, extremely
simple means are required. In most machines where the
armature is fixed, two terminals only are required; in
machines with revolving armatures sliding connections only
are required. Hence there is no sparking, and no adjustment
of brushes with a varying load — in fact, one of the most
expensive parts of a dynamo is rendered unnecessary. As it
is requisite in alternate-current working to have many alter-
nations in every second, and as mechanical considerations
forbid very high speeds, it is the general practice to make
this class of machines multipolar, with a considerable
I numberof poles of alternate polarity arranged symmetrically
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAROH 4, 1892.
S36
■round a common centra. Tho number of complete alter-
nabioaB per minute in machines of different aystoma varies
conoiderably from 2,500 to 12,000 or more, but about 6,000
is mostly uaed. The number of poles, Fig, 6, also varies
from 12 to 32 or more, depending, of course, on the specified
speed and cumber of complete periods per minute. There
are two ways of coupling up the coils of alternate-current
dynamos. For lighting incandescent lamps from mrallel
mains it is usual to connect the coils in paralleL This is
low-tension distribution, such as is used st Poddington.
For high-tension transformer work the armature coils are
connected up in series.
With these brief remarks on alternators we must end.
The mathematical treatment might be extended, as also
losses from hysteresis, runninz in parallel and multiphase
dynamos, but time does not allow.
ELECTRIC TBAHWATS ON THE OVERHEAD OR
TROLLEY WIRE SYSTEM.*
BY W, GIBSON CAWtr.
(C<mduded from page SOS.)
In the development of the electric tramway no part pre-
sented to the pioneers difficulties comparable to those
encountered in the operation of the rolling-stock, and
changes in the construction of every detail have been con-
stantly made as experience pointed out opportunities for
improvements in the mechanical and electrical details. It
was soon found that the methods of supporting the car
bodies which were employed in animal traction would not
do for electric service, and specially-designed trucks, upon
which the motors were carried beneath the car bodies,
were soon brought out. The matter of trucks is one of
greater moment than would appear at first sight, for upon
proper design and workmanship in the truck depends the
smooth and safe operation of the car, while the greatest
possible simplicity and accessibility of all parte is necessary
for ready examination and economical repair in case of acci-
dent. This simplicity, however, is not so easily accomplished
as might be supposed. The electric car has nothing to
steady it like the constant pull of the horses on the draw-
bar in animal traction, and the fore and aft oscillation is
prevented by ingenious designs in a score of trucks upon
the market today. Out of these, however, there are
scarcely half-a-dosen which are not so complex in construc-
tion that the smallest accident will necessitate an enormous
amount of labour in order to get at and repair some trifling
part A truck that has to be entirety pulled to pieces in
order to replace a pair of wheels will not pay in the long
run, however perfect it may be in preventing oscillation
and affording smooth running.
' Paper read before the Royal Eoginesrs.
In crowded cities, on lines upon which the traffic is very
large, and more or less constant, the use of very long cars
is often found advisable, and in such cases bogie tnicki
must be used. There are, however, several considerations
which qualify the advisability of very large cars. While
double carrying capacity can be obtained at the expenditure
of about 60 per cent, more power, the expense of hauling
round very large cars nearly empty, when the traffic is
light, will in most cases more than counterbalance the
advantages to be gained, and on a large majority of roads
a small car running during busy hours on a very quick
headway is preferable. One decided disadvantage which
the largo car on bogie trucks possesses is the smaller propor-
tionate weight available for the purpose of traction which
it possesses. It is not practicable to gear motors to all
four axles, and the universal practice is to drive such cars
by two motors, each being geared to one axle of each truck,
so that only half the totaf weight of the car is available
for traction. One manufacturer has brought out a most
excellent six-wheel truck with a very long wheel base, in
which the axles automatically assume a position radial to
any curve. In this truck almost the entire weight of tiie
car is supported en the driving wheels, and the chief objec-
tion to the eight wheel car obviated.
The first attempts at driving cars by electricity were
made with motors mounted on the platforms and geared
to the axles by means of sprocket chains. This clumsy
contrivance was, however, speedily superseded by motors
supported directly u[ion the axles and upon a flexible sus-
pension from the truck, entirely independent of the car
body. Spur gearing was used, by which the speed was
reduced from about 1,000 revolutions at the armature shaft
to 100 at the car axle. The limited space under the car
precluded the use of lai^e gears, and the reduction of ten
to one was accomplished in two steps by means of an
intermediate shaft. TcHJay single-reduction motors have
in turn supplanted these, and the solution of the problem
of gearlesa motors, with armatures mounted directly upon
the car axles, is,- perhaps, a question of the very near future.
Motors of this cl^ss are, indeed, in operation t<H3ay, but it u
very questionable whether their development has reached a
point at which anyad vantage can be gained by their adoption.
The total efficiencies of the double and single reduction
motors appear to be about the same, the enormous economy
effected by the use of thelatter being duechiefly to reduced
wear. The single-reduction gears running in oil in a duet-
tight casing are kept thoroughly lubricated, and are pro-
tected from the grit and fiyings which formerly mide the
renewal of gears one of the most important items in tha
repair account of electric roads. Smoothless and mors
noiseless operation has also been effeicted, and it cannot bs
doubted that single-reduction gearing has been one of tbs
longest steps in the direction of the perfect motor that baa
been made in the history of its development. Freedom
from sparking under wide variations of load and change of
direction of rotation is secured by making the field
magnets very powerful in proportion to the armature.
The output is, of course, smaller in proportion to
the weight than if the magnetising effect of the arma-
ture coils were relatively greater, but in that the slight
increase of weight gives better traction, this is of small
importance, and as the relatively weak magnetisation due
to the armature coils produces no distortion of the magnetic
Retd, we can use fixed brushes, set radially to the commu-
tator, which are sparklesa under all conditions. The motors
being series-wound, the speed with a given number of turns
in the field coils, is directly dependent upon the applied
E.M.F. and the resistance of the circuit, and can, therefore,
be varied at will by the introduction of a graduated resist-
ance in series with the motor. This resistance comes vary
little into play, but is necessary in order to avoid a jerky
movement in starting. After tne dead resistance is entirely
thrown out of the circuit, the speed can be further increased
by cutting out part of the field coils which are wound in
section, the bights of the coils being led to a switch operated
by the same mechanism that controls the rheostat. This
weakening of the field must not, however, be so great as to
allow a distortion of the field by the reaction of the
armatore corrent, or desttuctive sparking will ensue.
For most city work it has been found adviaable to naa
236
TSE E!LECfRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 4, 189^.
motors of about 30 h.p. capacity on each car. This is
usually divided between two motors of 15 h.p. capacity,
one being geared to each axle. In this way the entire
weight of the four-wheeled car is available for the purpose
of traction, and in case of an accident to one motor the car
can be run into the depdt with the other, instead of being
disabled, as would be the case if a single motor were used.
The motors which are coupled in parallel with each other
are reversed by reversing the direction of the current
in the armatures. This has generally been accomplished
by leading the current first to the fields of the two
motors in multiple with each other, and hence through a
reversing switch to the armatures, which are also in multiple
with each other. The current in the fields of the two motors
will, of course, with such a system of connections, be
inversely proportional to the ohmic resistance of the field
coils, so that an equal distribution of current between the
fields can easily be secured by carefully winding them to
the same resistance. As, however, these field currents are
again brought together into one at the reversing switch, the
currents in the armatures will depend not only on the
respeclive ohmic resistance of the armatures, but upon
the counter KM.F.'s generated in them. Owing to
differences in the iron employed in construction of the
motors, it is difficult to exactly balance those, and the only
practicable way of equally distributing the load between
the two motors is by the employment of two reversing
switches, so^that the two motor circuits are entirely separate
and distinct from each other. It is only by the most
careful attention to such details as these that smooth and
economical operation can be secured.
The current is collected from the trolley wire by means of a
grooved gunmetal trolley, carried upon a trolley bar, mounted
upon the roof of each car. This bar has a universal joint at its
base, which allows the trolley bar to move in any direction,
while springs acting upon a cam arrangement of peculiar
design tend to keep the bar in a perpendicular position.
The design of this arrangement is such that the upward
pressure of the bar is equal whatever the tension on the
springs, so that the troUev is always kept firmly pressed
against the trolley wire, m spite of any variation in the
height of the latter, and the flexibility of the universal
joint allows it to follow any deviation of the wire away
from an exact central position over the track. In the
circuit between the trolley stand and the motors are inter-
posed a fuse cut-out, which protects the motors and the
wiring in case of an accidental short circuit, a lightning
arrester, and the variable resistance, which is usually of
iron, the rheostat being insulated throughout with mica to
avoid danger from overheating. The current after passing
through the rheostat is taken to the motors, and from
thence through the wheels to the track and supplementary
wiring, by which the circuit is completed back to the
generator.
The use of a lightning arrester both on the cars and at
the power station removes one very fruitful source of acci-
dents— the long line of trolley wire, especially in country
districts, being exceedingly liable to be struck by lightning,
and unless some path can be provided for the escape of the
discharge to earth, disastrous results to generators or motors
are almost certain to follow.
Such objections as have been raised to overhead electric
tramways have been made purely from a sociological point
of view, and experience has invariably led to the modifica-
tion or entire withdrawal of these. To the public is offers
cleaner and less obstructed streets, and less wear of paving
than animal traction, comfortable and well-lit cars, and
rapid transit. To the financier it commends itself as cheap,
reliable, and offering facilities for rapid transit, which can
be given in no other way. To the engineer it presents a
fiela for the application of motive power for moving vehicles
at an efficiency exceeding that which can be given by other
methods, while its extreme flexibility permits its use in
places which could be reached by no other means.
We have not yet come to the end of its development.
Its application upon the great railways of the world is
perhaps a question of the immediate future, and its adop-
tion in a thousand forms for the purpose of manufacture
and commerce has already been begun with a success which
ensures its rapid and universal extension.
PORTSMOUTH.
REPORT BY PROF. WM. GARNETT.
To the Electric Lighting Committee of the Borough of Portsmoath.
Gentlemen,— In accordance with your instructions. I now
submit to you an estimate of capital and current expenditure and
receipts for the lighting of the district specified in Schedule B of
your provisional order, and of the esplanade between ihe two
piers.
The estimate is based upon the assumption that, in accordance
with the recommendations contained in my report of October 14th
last, altematinfif currents at a pressure of 2,000 volts will be
employed for the transmission of energy through the main leads.
Since ray report was written a very complete series of tests has
been carried out on the condensing turbo-generator by Prof. J. A.
Ewing, F.R.S., professor of engineering in the University of Cam-
bridge, and a copy of his report I hope to lay before yoo. Prof.
Swing's results show that the turbo-generator is now as efficient
as the best compound engines of the marine type, and that for
light loads it stands unequalled, while in the first cost of the
machine, and in the items of engine-house and foundations, it
enables a very considerable reduction to be made in capital expen-
diture. I have therefore made my estimate in the first instance on
the assumption that *' turbo-electric generators " with surface con-
densers wul be employed, and have made a supplementary esti-
mate of the additional cost which would bo involved if it should be
thought desirable to employ compound condensing engines of the
ordinary type, making not more than 90 revolutions per minute,
coupled by endless rope gearing to alternators making «100 revolu-
tions per minute. In this estimate I have provided for engines
and alternators of the highest class of manufacture obtainable.
I have assumed that a site will be procured for the central
station at which sufficiently clean sea- water for surface condensers
will be obtainable at all times of the tide within a distance of 250
yards. The Grammar School has been selected as the point from
which the lines of high-tension mains should diverge, and it has
been assumed that the distance of the central station from this
point will not exceed 500 yards. If it is impossible to fulfil this
condition, the extra cost of mains will be at the rate of £3,200 per
mile for the distance between the central station and the Grammar
School. Concentric mains will be laid from the central station to
the Grammar School, capable of carrying sufficient current for
twice the number of lamps for which it is intended at present to
provide. TheBC conductors together will serve all the require-
ments of the station until lam{)8 have been installed equivalent to
about 17,000 lamps of 16 c.p.
The system of mains which I propose to adopt is the following :
Concentric high-tension mains will be laid from the Cirammar
School along the principal thoroughfares mentioned in Schedule B
of the provisional order and Alexandra-road. Along the Com-
mercial-road route as far as the corner of Lake-road, and to
Southsea as far as the corner of Osborno-road and [*almerston-
road, high-tension mains will be laid capable of carrying about
twice the current for which provision is at present to oe made at
the generating station. This will pro>ide for the increased
demand which will occur when the system of mains is extended to
North End and the Beach Mansions. The cost of extending the
lighting system in these directions, including high and low tension
mains and transformers, will be at the rate of about £2,600 per
mile.
The high-tension mains mov be concentric armoured cables of
the class manufactured by Messrs. Siemens, or concentric cables
protected by a lead sheathing and surrounded by 2in. of bitumen
as manufactured and laid by the British Insulated Wire Company
or the India Rubber, Gutta Percha, and Telegraph Works
Company. Side by side with the high -tension cable, and in the
same trench, will be laid cast-iron socket pipes, 4in. in diameter,
securely jointed, as in the case of « high-pressure water supply,
and protected within and without by a bituminous composition.
Cast-iron junction-boxes, with water-tight covers, will be inserted
at intervals of about 50 yards in the course of these pi{ies, and
through these junction-boxes the conductors may be inserted or
withdrawn. The low-tension conductors, having an insulation
resistance of not less than 600 megohms per mile, will be drawn
into these pipes, and will thus be carried by the side of the high-
tension conductors throughout the town. It will not be necessary
for these conductors to carry more than 140 amperes (the current
for 230 lamps of 16 c.p.) over any section of the route, and where
the demand for current is very small their carrying capacity will
be reduced to 70 amperes, but may afterwards be increased as
required by drawing additional cables into the tubes. The
low-tension conductors will be fed from the high-tension
mains through transformers placed at intervals, which will
ultimately not exceed .300 yards, and which will be less than
this in those localities where the demand for current is
very great. The transformers will be inserted in boxes in
the footways, but their positions will be determined by the
demands of consumers ; thus, if some one consumer, or two or
three neighbours require, say, current for 200 lamps, a 40-h.p.
transformer will bo inserted immodiacely op|K>site the premises in
question, and service leads will be carried aircctly from the trans-
former for the supply without utilising the low- tension mains.
The transformer will be capable of supplying current for 480
lamps, so that, in addition to supplying the premises immediately
opposite, the transformer will be able to supply current (168
amperes) for 280 lamps to the secondary mains, sav 84 amperes, to
the right and the same to the left, to be drawn off when reqaired
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 4, 1892.
2S7
wherever required to supply pome consumers directly and to feed
into the secondary mains, and gmnll trnnafiirrnerB may be replaced
by larger instrumoiita when necessary. Small streets will be
supplied by branches from the secondary conductors only, and
towBi-ds & terminus tlio seoondary conductors may be carriad 150
yards or 200 yards beyond the sods of the high-tension mains,
Sbonld tuiy traneformer break down it would be automatically cut
off from the mains, but itsdistriol would be supplied with current
from the adjoining transformera with only n clight falling off of the
pressure. By using separate cables for the flow aii<l return,
instead of concentric cnbles, for tho low-tension condnctors, it will
be possible to connect new consumers or branch circuits in side
streets without interfering with the continuous supply of current
to the district ; but if for any purpose it is necessary to cut
off the supply from the section served by one transformer, this
will be easily eflected by disconnecting the 1ow-t«nHion conductors
at the neighbouring ju notion- boiee without interfering with tiie
aapply to any other section than that so cut off. The transformers
may, with advantage, be arranged as proposed by Mr. Forranti
with gear whereby they are automatically adapted for economic
working with a full load or a very light load according to the
(iemand upon them and I have baaed my estimate for transformers
on Mr. Forranti's figures.
Tho lines along which the high^tensian conductors will be
carried will be as follows :
(a) Concentric mains together of '^2 square inch section from
the central station by the ahortest available route to the Grammar
School.
(6) One concentric cable of '1 sciuare inoli section from the
Grammar School along High-street to the corner of the Grand
Parade. If a supply of current is required in Brood-street, n,
better coarse for this cable will be round the Inner Camber to
Broad-street, and thence up High-street as far as it may bo
necessary to carry it.
[e) One concentric cable of "2 sguars inch sectional area from the
Grammar School to the Pier Hotel, with a branch of '1 square
inch sectional area down King's-road, to the comer of Park-lane,
a second branch of '035 square inch section a distance of 100 yards
along Land port-terrace, and a third branch of '035 square inch
sectional area from the Pier Hotel, along the Clarence Esplanade,
to tbe South-parade Pier, the main conductor being carried on
from the Pier Hotel, along South sea- terrace, Western -parade, and
Osborne road, to the comur of Pal mo rst on -road, with a sectional
area of "IS sijuare inch, from which corner branches of '1 square
inch section will be carried along Palmerston-road to within 150
yards of St. Jude'e Church and of Clarence- parade,
((f) One concentric cable of '2 square inch sectional area from the
GrommBr School to tbe corner of Edinburgh road, with a branch
of "035 square inch sectional area extending for 80 yards along
Hamjishiro- terrace, and a branch of '1 square inch sectional area
extending from tbe corner of Commercial -road and Edinburgh-
road, along Queen-street and Camden-alley to the corner of Wick-
ham street. When there is demand for current along Ordnance-
row and on the Common Hard, the Queen-street conductor may be
Bupphed directly from the central station through a high-tension
conductor laid along the Oun wharf -rood, Ordnance-row, and the
Common Hard. The main line of cable will be caiiiod along tbe
Commercial- road from Edinburgh-road to Liiko-roid with n
sectional area of '15 square inch, and from Lake-road to All
Sainto' Church with a sectional area of '1 square inch.
Tha low. tension, or secondary conductors, laid in pipee as above
deacribed, will follow the same routes as the high-tension mains,
with the following exceptions ;
1. Wherever necessary the secondary conductors will bo carried
bayond the ends of the bigh-tenaion mains to distances of 150
yards, or, in some cases, 'JOO yards. The secondary conductor
will thus be carried to tbe dockyard gates, along the whole length
of Hampshire and Land port terraces, hi the corner of Orood-atreot,
Portsmouth, and along the Palmerston-road to tho corners of
Marmion.road and Clare nee- parade.
2. Along the Clarence Esplanade branch low-tension conductors
of only ult) square inch sectianal area will bo laid in l^in.
wrougbt-iron barrel. Very small transformers will be used on
this section, and the current will be cut off from the whole
circuit, except when tho lights on the Esplanade are required.
(Shonid a large supply of cui'rent be required for the Clarance
Esplanade Pier it will probably be best to provide an entirely
separate main for its supply from the central station, with tele-
phonic communication, whereby instructions would be transmitted
bo the station in the event of the pier lights being required at
nn usual hours, )
3. No low tension conductors will be rei)uired along the route of
the main cables from the central station to the Grammar School,
«r from the Grammar School to the corner of King's-road and to
Victoria HatI, or along a portion of Edinburgh road, unless it ia
desired to provide public lights along these roads.
For the purpbee of public lighting in the streets, instead of arc
lampe, placed at distances of 50 yartls or more, I prefer to employ
" high efficiency " incandescent lamps of LWcp.. nied at distances
of about 30 yards. These lamps would be supplied directly from
the law-t«nsion conductors, and two of them would require about
the same power as a single arc lamp. They would need to be
■Dore frequently renewed than ordinary incandescent lamps, and
this has been taken into account in the estimate of annual expeo.
diture. A l6-c.p. himp should, otcopt on tbe Esplanade, be
cairled in the same lantern with tho 150-c.p, lamp, and should be
switched on, in the place of the larijer lamp at II p.m., thus
enabling the streets to be lighted all night, at about the same
coat as would be required to maintain the larger lamps until mid-
night. If incandescent Inmua are adopted, only very light
columns will be required for tteir support, and they will need oo
attention until they require renewal, while the present lamp
columns may be used in most cases. Arc lamps require expensive
standards, and cost about £4 caoh |ier annum for carbons and
trimming, if burning until midniglit only.
As the conductors along the Clarence ICsplnnade will be used for
public lighting only, so that all the lam iis connected with them will
tie switched on and olT together, and as no small lamps are
rcfjuired in this situation during the whole night, it will be con-
venient to switch tho whole of the lights on and off siraullaneously
by means of a high. tension switch at the point at which the Espla-
nade conductors branch from the mains near the Pier Hotel. On
a public promenade the lighting up simultaneously of IKI jiowerful
lights will be effective,
For the lighlA along the Clarence Esplanade arc lamps are less
unsuitable than in the streets, but high-power incandescent lamps
would meet the requirements of tbe situation. If it is decided to
use only a few arc lamps in special situations it seems nnneceseary
to provide a setutrate plant for arc lighting, or even t-o lay down a
special set of mains supplied with continuous current through a
rectifier, since alternating-current arc !nm(« may be employed, u
at Newcastle, and fed from the high. tension mains through trans-
formers, which reduce the pressure to GO volts. One transforrosr
may he employed for a group of seven lamps. A supplementary
estimate ia appended to provide for arc lighlji on the Esplanade
and in the princi|)al roads if desired.
Though the capital reijuired for the installation of S,M)0 private
and 200 public lamps is estimated at only £40,000, it is desiiabla
that borrowing powers should be obtained for a much larger sumi
in order to Gnable eitensions to be made to tbe syBl«m from time
to time OS the public may demand, without reneweil application to
the Local Government Board,
No item has been included for meters, as arrangements can, if
desired, be made with the manufacturers of metei's to supply them
and maintain them in working order at an annual charge which
would be completely covered by the rental per meter paid by
consumers. II it is preferred that the meters should be purchased,
the rental would sumce to pay intereat on the capital outlay, and
to creato a sinking fund for its repayment within 10 years.
The cost of the site is another item not included in the capital
estimate, as I have not yet learned whether land already the
proiierty of the Corporation will be available for the purpose, and
without due information it is useless to estimate the coat of a site
in a district where tbe value of land varies enormously with a
change of only a few yards in its situation.
No allowance bos been made for the renewal of lamps used lor
lighting tbe central station, inasmuch as the blackened lamps
taken down from the street columns may be used in the engine. room
until ihey are broken up.
So long OS the number of private lamps wired is less than the
equivalent of S.SOO 60.watt lamps, lbs income will bo less than the
amount estimated below, and the expenses will also be lees, but
not in the same proportion. There appears, however, to be a
reasonable nmrgin to meet this difference, and if the public lighting
is undertaken at once the installation may be ei|iecteil to pay its
working exiienses and interest on capital actually invested bh soon
as the number of private lamps wired exceeds 5,000.
E-limatr.for Hiyh-^IKtd Oaitrating PlaiU and IiicandrtetlU
lAimiHi for PMU Lightiiij/.
Buildings, including chimney shaft, boiler.room, engine-
room, hot-well, omcee, stores, coal stores, etc £5,000
Travelling crane to lift four tons 200
Cast-iron 12in. pipes for condensing water, 300 yards run
laid from sea to engine.room 400
Five Lancashire boilers, each XtH. by Tft. 6iD,, constructed
for a working pressure of 1601b. per square inob. fixed
in position with foundations, Bues, fittings, firing tools,
and all accessories 4,50U
Three loO-unit generators, one lOO-unit generator and one
7o-unit generator for the production of alternating
current at -2,000 volts, with condensers 7.000
Two duplex f«jd puin|iB, each cajiable of supplying all the
boilers at full load, with steam and water pipee fixed and
connected 200
Main and exhaust steam pipee with brass valvee arranged
so that any generator can be supplied from any boiler
and exhausted into any condenser, pipes and connections
between condensers and main auction and delivery pipee
for circulating water, steam and exhaust pipes to
auxiliary engines driving circulating and air pumps,
alternative exhaust pif>e8 carried through roof to enable
any generator to bo used as a non- condensing engine,
and duplex arrangement of feed-water connections, all
high. pressure branch steam-pipes being of copper ,. 2,000
Main switcbes, fuse boards, voltmeters, am jfere- meters,
resistance coils, transformers for pilot lamps and lighting
engine and boiler rooms and offices, with lamps and
fittings for the same )HIO
Economiser, fixed 600
Tools 260
Spare armaturOB, bearings, and other parts 500
Transformers for 4*111 units, each transformer being wound
with throo separate wires in both primary and i!«ooudary
238
THE ELECTRICAL ENomElER, MARCH 4, 1892.
cirouite, so arranged that they can be coupled by anto-
matio eear in ** seriee *' for light loads, and in '* paralleJ "
when the load is sufficient! v increased, at £7. 6e. per unit,
to include street boxes and fixing
Bfains— Concentric mains of *32 square inch sectional area
from central station to Grammar School
High-tension mains, as above specified, exclusive of
Clarence Esplanade
Low-tension mains, including trenching and making good
the roads and footways, laying cast-iron pipes with
junction-boxes and cables, as above specified
Hiffh and low tension mains, with junction-boxes for
Clarence Esplanade
Lamp columns. Ninety new columns wiUi lanterns fixed
complete, and lanterns and connections to 110 gas
columns
Office furniture and equipment
Contingencies, 4 per cent
Engineers, clerk of works, quantity surveyor, etc
3,335
900
3,700
5,200
900
•800
200
1,600
2,000
Total £39,985
* This estimate provides only for the plainest possible type of
lamp columns on the Esplanade.
Rbceipts.
Private lighting, 352,000 units at 6d £8,800
Public lighting, 120,000 units at 4d., to include renewals of
incandescent lamps 2,000
£10,800
Expenditure.
Coal, 472,000 units, at M. per unit sold £1,770
Wages at central station, 52f weeks at £12. 128 675
Oil, waste, and other stores, at '15d. per unit 295
Salaries 500
Law and office expenses 300
Queen's taxes on central station (£200 rental) 5
Local rates— water 50
Insurance (boiler insurance only) 50
Wages for labour in streets 150
Renewal of street lamps 350
Depreciation and repairs :
Buildings, on £5,000 at 2^ per cent £125' 0 0
Running machinery, boilers, economiser,
etc, on £12,200 at 7i per cent 014 0 0
Steam-pipes, valves, etc., on £2,000 at 5
percent. 100 0 0
Instruments, etc., on £800 at 5 per cent. ... 40 0 0
Tools, on £250 at 10 per cent 25 0 0
Traveller, on £200 at 2^ per cent 5 0 0
Water mains, on £400 at 2^ per cent 10 0 0
Office furniture, on £200 at 10 per cent 20 0 0
Mains, on £10,700 at 6 per cent 642 0 0
Transformers, £3,067 at 6 per cent., and on
£268 at 2i per cent 190 14 0
Lamp columns, painting, etc., on £800 at
5 per cent. 40 0 0
say,
Interest on £40,000 at 3i jjer cent
Balance
2,112
1,400
7,639
3,161
£10,800
In ^ the above estimate the cost for excavation, for laying and
jointing cast-iron pipes, and for making g^ood the rcMids anafoot-
ways, as well as tor ordinarv builders^ work, has been taken at
prices at which it is believed that the work could be easily done
by local contractors, under the supervision of your engineers. If
the contractors for the electrical plant and conductors are required
to tender for this work, it is probable that an addition of about
£1,(X)0 will be made by them to cover risk and cost of supervision.
If 45 alternating-current arc lamps are used on the Clarence
Esplanade the extra capital cost will be about £1,000, and the
extra charge on revenue will be about £155 if the lamps are
burning until midnight only, but this will provide no light between
midnight and sunrise. If the same lamps are replaced at 11 p.m.
by 32-candle lamps burning till sunrise, the extra cost on revenue
account will be aoout £180 per annum.
If the whole of the public lighting is carried out by 100 alter-
nating-current arc lamps burning tul 11 p.m., and then replaced
by 32-candle lamps burning until sunrise, the extra cost on capital
account will be about £2,200, and on revenue account about £400
per annum.
If 100 continuous-current arc lamps are employed for street
lighting, with rectifiers as proposed by Mr. Ferranti, the extra
expenditure on capital will be £3,200 bejrond the above detailed
estimate and on revenue account about £480 per annuoL
If an entirely separate arc lighting plant is employed, consisting
of two 75-unit continuous-current generators (one being spare),
one of the 150-unit plants may be replaced by a 100-unit plant,
and the extra expenditure on capital will amount to about £4,000
beyond tho first estimate given, but the extra expenditure on
revenue account will be no greater than with the idtemating
currents and rectifier, as there will be no loss in transformation.
If slow-running compound condensing engines of the highest
class, making from 75 to 90 revolutions per minute, and coupled
by endless rope gearing to slow-runnine Ferranti or other alter-
nators are employed, t£e extra on the foundations and buildings
of the central station and crane will amount to about £2,600, and
the extra on the engines and dynamos to about £5,(X)0. The total
capital expenditure will then be £47,435, and annual expenditure
£8,082. if 100 continuous-current arc lamps be used lor public
lighting and supplied from a separate plimt, driven by slow-
running engines, the capital expenditure will be about £52,450,
and the current expenaiture about £8,6(X) per annum. Slow-
running compound engines may be obtained at a cost much below
this estimate, but the extra on the buildings and foundations
cannot be avoided.
I shall be glad to learn the wishes of the committee with respect
to the employment of arc lamps or incandescent lamps of nigh
power for public lighting. Witn respect to this point, it may be
mentioned that onTv incandescent lamps will be suitable for small
streets, and very little extra cost would be incurred if incan-
descent lamps were at first employed in the main thoroughfares and
supplied with current from the ordinary low- tension conductoxB,
and were subsequently replaced by a complete system of arc
lighting, and themselves relegated to the less important streets.
By the system proposed the public lights would affi)rd work for
the generating plant and utilise the mains pending the acquisition
of a sufficient number of private consumers to render the private
lighting plant remunerative. — I have the honour to be, gentlemen,
your obedient servant, William Gaknett.
Summary of Capital Expenditurk.
High-speed Plant,
Buildings, crane, and water mains £5,600
Boilers and economiser 5,000
Generators and feed pumps 7,200
Pipes, etc . 2,000
Instruments 800
Spares 500
Tools 260
Transformers 3,335
Mains 10,700
Columns and lamp fittings 800
Furniture 200
Contingencies 1,600
Engineers, etc 2,000
£39,985
Summary of Annual Expenditure.
Coal £1,770
Wages and salaries 1,307
Stores, water, etc 345
Office expenses, insurance, taxes, etc 355
Renewal of lamps 350
Depreciation and repairs 2,107
Interest 1,400
£7,634
Southsea, December 26, 1S91.
ELECTRICITY UP TO DATE.
This formed the subject of an interesting lecture recently
delivered at the Peel Park Museum, Manchester, by Mr. Percy A.
Ramage, of Messrs. Mather and Piatt's Iron Works, Salford. The
lecture was delivered under the auspices of the Salford Corpora-
tion, and the chair was occupied by Councillor F. W. Roe Rycroft.
The lecturer referred to the various theories which had been enter-
tained with regard to the nature of electricity, and said that it
was to Faraday that they largely owed their knowledge of the
subject. The greatest adrance in the use of the power
had been made in producing heat for domestic purposes,
and it was even used to a slight extent in heating railway
carriages. The lecturer reviewed the operations connected
with the telegraph, the telephone, and the phonograph, and
said that such progress had been made in connection with the
former instrument that six or even more messages could be sent
over one line at a time. He referred to the extension of electric
lighting in London and Manchester, and to the new electric
railway in the metropolis, of which he gave a lucid and interesting
description. In conclusion, he said that there was still a vast deal
to be done in electrical engineering in saving the amount of energy
drawn from coal, and it was to &at object that scientists were
devoting their best attention. The lecture was illustrated by
numerous lar^e diagrams, and was appreciatively listened to by a
crowded audience. The proceedings were closed by a vote of
thanks to the lecturer and chairman on the motion of Alderman
Robinson, seconded by Councillor Phillips.
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
TELEGRAPH CONSTRUCTION COMPANY.
The twenty-eighth ordinary general meeting of the Telegraph
Construction and Maintenance Company, Limited, was held on
Tuesday at the offices, 38, Old Bread-street, under the presidency
of Mr. Philip Rawsoo, J, P., in the absence of Sir George £lliot,
M.P., who was stated to be now on his way from Egypt.
The Clwlrauui, in moving the adoption of the report and
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 4, 1892.
239
acooaDts, said the Utter showed a prosperonB condition of the
Company. There was a net result of £85,199, after cbareing
interest on debentures. To this sum was to be added £61,000,
brought forward from the last account. An interim dividend was
paid in July last, which absorbed £22,410, leaving £124,314. Of
this sum the Directors proposed to distribute a dividend of £1. 16s.
per share, being at the rate of 15 per cent., and making a
total dividend of 20 per cent, on the year. This would
leave £57,084 to be carried forward to the next account.
From the report it would be noticed that the work done
during the year had been considerable. Repairs had been
carried out on the Brazilian Submarine Telegraph Company's
cables in the vicinity of Lisbon and Madeira, ana on the Direct
United States Company's cable on the coast of Nova Scotia. A
duplicate cable had been laid for the Eastern Extension Telegraph
Company between Madras and Penang, and a triplicate cable for
the Eastern Telegraph Company between Aden and Bombay. A
cable had also b^n laid for the Great Northern Telegraph Com-
pany between Oye, on the France coast, and Fanoe, on tne coast
of Denmark. During the year a length of 5,132 knots of telegraph
wire had been insulated for submarine and land lines. The Gutta
Percha Company was doing very good business, and, altogether,
he considercMl the shareholders of the Company were to be con-
gratulated on the position.
The motion was seconded by Hr. George W. Caaipliell, and
carried.
NORTHAMPTON ELECTRIC LIGHT COMPANY.
A general meeting of the members of the Northampton Electric
Light and Power Company, Limited, was held at the Guildhall.
Northampton, last week, Mr. S. L Seckham, chairman of directors,
presiding. The report stated that the mains already laid amounted
to 2,800 yards, and that there were in use or being installed no
less than 3,400 lights of 8 c.p. TbLs, as Alderman Randall
explained, was 1,400 lights in excess of anticipation. In con-
sequence of the large mcrease in the business, it had become
imperatively necessary to enlarge the machinery at an early date.
The year's trading showed a loss of £461. 7s. 2d. ; but that, it was
explained, was owing to the expenses of a year's working being
set against an income of only about three months. Councillor
Cleaver and Mr. W. Tomes were re-elected directors, and
Mr. Hull was re-appointed auditor. Several directors and members
spoke most highly of the prospects of the Company.
ACTIEN GESELLSCHAFT : MIX AND GENEST, BERLIN.
At their last meeting the Directors of the above Company con-
sidered the balance-sheet, which showed, after writing off the
usual for the depreciation on stock, a gross profit of 160,306 marks,
as against 69,668 marks of the previous year. They proposed to
the shareholders to write off on plant, tools, etc., 17,428 marks,
and on patent account 44,634 marks, as against 4,159 marks written
off patent account in the year 1890, and then to pay a dividend of
6 per cent. The extraordinary amount written off patent account,
which represents nearly 4 per cent, on the paid-up capital, is far
in excess of the amount written off in former years, consequently
there will in future only be a nominal amount to write off
annually, and so leave a larger net profit available for dividends.
Both their factories are now working at high pressure, and the
orders in hand are much in excess of wnat they were for the corre-
sponding period of last year.
COMPANIES' REPORTS.
CITY OF BATH ELECTRIC LIGHTING AND ENGINEERING
COMPANY.
Directors : Lieut-Colonel Theophilus 7aughton, J. P., Major-
General J. Gordon Jervois, R.E. ; Messrs Harry Newson Garrett,
C.E., Alfred Pitman, Thomas Octavius Callender, Emile Garcke,
Henry George Massingbam, Ernest Pitman, C. J. Wharton.
Secretary, Wm. Jeffery, 2, Northumberland-buildings, Bath.
Report of the Directors presented at the first annual general
meeting of the Company, held at the works of the Company,
Dorchester-street, Bath, on Saturday, Feb. 27.
The Directors have pleasure in submitting the first annual report
and statement of accounts. The number of shares allottea is
3,246, upon which the sum of £31,981 has been paid. The result
of the first year's operations of the Company is, in the opinion of
the Directors, satisfactory. During the year the supplv of current
for incandescent lighting increased oy 50 per cent. , and the current
is now supplied nightly to 102 arc lamps and 5,000 glow lamps.
The gross profit amounts to £1,626. 8s. 5^., and after deducting
Directors' fees, salaries, and other standing charges, there remains
a net balance of £585. 198. 1^. The Directors recommend that a
dividend at the rate of 4 per cent per annum (absorbing (£556. 16s. )
be declared on the paid-up capital. The Directors have not written
off any amount for depreciation, but all repairs and renewals have
been charged to profit and loss account, and care has been taken to
keep up all the plant to its original working efficiency. The eng^neer-
in-cniet, Mr OUson, reports^ *' In -accordance with your request, I
have pleasure in informing you that the plant is in good working
order. The engines and dvnamos have been kept in thorough
repair, and the mains, both for arc and incandescent lightine, are
in perfect order/' The Directors propose, in order to meet future
depreciation of machinery, and to provide for exceptional outlay
in any one year, to constitute a renewals fund, to whidi the
balance of revenue, after providing for the dividend above
mentioned, will be carried. Tne electnc light is finding increasing
favour in the city, as is evidenced by the many fresh installations.
Among other buildings, the Bath and CJounty Club has been fitted
throughout. Deputations from various towns have visited Bath
during the past j^ear, for the purpose of inspecting the Company's
works and lighting arrangements. The general testimony is that
the central station is one of the most successful yet carried out,
and the only improvement suggested by the deputations is that in
some parts of the city additional arc lamps should be erected. The
Directors anticipate that the coming year will show even better
results, and they are giving special attention to the auoetion of
reducing the initial chiurge for installing the electric li|^nt. They
are also considering the question of giving a day and night supply
of electricity.
Profit and Loss Aocoxtnt, 1891.
Dr. £ s. d. £ s.
Working expenses 4,318 15
Standing charges —
1. Directors^feee 46 4 0
2. Salary of secretary, engineer, elec-
tricians, and other omcers 656 11 5
3. Rent, rates, and taxes 226 10 10
d.
44
Stock, decreased value
Balance— profit 585
Cr.
Proceeds of sale of current and installations
Discounts and other receipts
929
111
6
3
3
1
5,359 4
585 19
?}
£5,945 3
£ s.
5,863 18
81 5
10
d.
64
3i
£5,945
Balance-sheet made up to 318t December, 1891.
Dr. £ 8. d. £
Capital —
3,246 ordinary shares of £10 each 32,460 0 0
Less c«Jls in arrear 479 0 0
31,981
50 deferred founders* shares of £100 each 5,000
Creditors —
Sundries 1,215 13 H
Balance of purchase-money of
undertaking (unpaid) 1,834 7 11
3,050
Profit and loss-
Balance, being net profit 585
3 10
s. d.
0 0
0 0
1 71
19 H
Cr.
Property— Plant, mains, construc-
tion, and sundries :
£40,617 0 9
s. d. £ s. d.
Price paid to vendors 29,864 4 3
Additions 2,290 3 7
Preliminary expenses 1,287
Goodwill (lounaers' shares) 5,000
Debtors —
For current supplied, and installa-
tions
Stock, goods on hand
Cash at bankers
Cash in office
32,154 7 10
17 2
0 0
1,354 4 4
584 6 4
230 5 3
5 19 10
2,174 15 9
Appropriation Account.
Dr.
£40,617
£
Dividend at the rate of 4 per cent, on paid-up
capital since formation of Company 556
Balance carried forward to next account 29
Cr.
Balance brought down.
0 9
s. d.
16 0
3 H
£585
19
14
£
585
s.
19
d.
H
£585 19 H
KESWICK ELECTRIC LIGHT COMPANY.
The annual report of the Directors of the Keswick Eleotrio
Light Company has been issued. During the past year they have
experiencea great difficulties in having to run the station with
plant only partially supplied with water power, in consequence of
which considerable expenditure has been incurred in providing
steam power to supply the deficiency. The business of the Com-
pany continues to mcrease, and in order to meet the recjuirements
it has been found necessary to make considerable extensions in the
main-wiring, the advantages of which te the Company are not
fully felt. Notwithstanding these difficulties and the extraordinary
working cost, the Directors have satisfaction in presenting a state-
ment ^ aocoonta which shows a balance upon the year's workini^
240
THE ELECTRICA-L ENGINEER, MARCH 4, 1892.
of £87. 88. 5d., which, being added to the balance left over from
the previous year, leaves a sum of £122. 4b. They propose the
pavment of a dividend of £3 per cent., which will leave £44. lOs. 7d.
to be carried forward to the next acooant. The receipts from con-
sumers amount to £541. lis. 2d.
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
Pioneer Telephone Company. — The Pioneer Telephone Com-
pany, Limited, has been formed with a capital of £100,000 in
shares of £10 each, for the purpose of acquiring certain rights and
interest secured to the Electric and General Investment Company,
Limited, under which the undertaking of the Mutual Telephone
Company, Limited, in Manchester, may be acquired as a ^oing
concern. It has also been formed for the purpose of providing
the necessary capital for the New Telephone Ck>mpany, Limiteo,
the objects of which are the acquisition, establishment, and
working of telephone exchanges throughout the United Kingdom
under license. Seven thousand five hundred shares were offered
for subscription. The officers are as follows : Board of Directors,
the Duke of Marlborough, «3, Carlton House-terrace, S.W., Colonel
the Honourable Oliver Montagu, 3, Mount-street, W., Charles
Praed, Es(|., Lloyds Bank, Limited, F. E. Savory, Esq., West
Suffolk County Cflub, Bury St. Edmunds ; bankers, Lloyds Bank,
Limited ; brokers, Messrs. Foster and Braithwaite, 27, Austin-
friars, E.C. ; solicitors, Messrs. Dawes and Sons, 0, Angel-court,
£.C. ; auditors, Messrs. W. H. Pannell and Co., 13 and 14, Basing-
hall-street, E.C. ; secretary, J. Cecil Bull, Esq. ; offices, Nos. 1
and 2, Great Winchester-street, London, E.C.
BUSINESS NOTES.
City and Bonth London Rnllwny. — The receipts for the week
end ins; 28th February were £834, against £754 for the corre-
sponding period of last year.
Snstem Telegraph Company. — The traffic receipts of this
CompanjT for February were £58,284, as against £59,155 for the
same period of 1891, a decrease of £871.
Snbmaiine Calilee Tmat.— The coupon due in October last of
the Submarine Cables Trust will be paid in full on and after the
15th inst. by Messrs. Glyn, Mills, ana Co.
■astern Xxtenslon Telegraph Company.— The receipts of
this Company for February amounted to £39,002, as against
£43,883 in the corresponding period, showing a decrease of £4,831.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1892.
3423.
.3427.
3443.
3472.
3488.
3512.
3513.
8514.
3521.
3523.
8538.
3542.
3560.
February 22.
ImproToments in telephones. Sir Charles Stewart Forbes,
Bart., 21, Finsbury-pavement, London.
A new earbon eleotrode for eleotrie are lighting, to be
called the eleotrio toreh. Carl Anton Johannes Hugo
Schroeder and Heinrich Eugen Richard Schroeder, Whet-
stone House, Heslop-road, Balham, London.
Improvements in eleotrio aro lamps. George Hughes,
38, Chancery-lane, London. (Charles Henri Octave Japy
and Oscar Helmer, France.) (Complete specification )
February 23.
Zmprorements relating to inoandesoent lampholders.
Reuben James Bott, 9, Park -place- villas, St. Mary's,
Paddington London.
An improved method of eoiling np oondnotorsof portable
eleotrie lamps. Alexander Charles Hamilton, 41, Lennox-
gardens, Chelsea, London.
Xmprorements in the prooess of eleotroljsing alkaline
salts. George Dolor Davis, 25, Bedford-place, Russell-
square, Lonc&n.
Improvements in diaphragms for eleetriesl oells. George
Dolor Davis, 25, Bodford-place, Russell -square, London.
Improvements in the prooess of eleetrolysing alkaline
salts. George Dolor Davis, 25, Bedford-pla^, Russell-
square, London.
Petroleum lamp with eleetrioal igniting devioe. Oliver
Imray, 28, Southampton-buildings, London. (Carl Was-
muth, Germany.)
Improved galvanio element. Oliver Imray, 28, South-
ampton-buildings, London. (Carl Wasmuth, Germany.)
Improvements in distributing and oontrolling electrie
enrrents in mines or other dangerous plaoes. Robert
John Charleton and Henry Walker, 46, Lincoln*s-inn-fields,
London.
Improvements in telephone apparatus. Henry Harris
Lake, 45, Southiunpton -buildings, London. (William
Gray, United States.) (Complete specification.)
Improvements in troUeyMvire hangers and other
applianoes fior use in overhead eleetrio railway
Smith W. Kimble, 55, Chancery-lane, London,
3561.
3562.
3569.
3572.
3595.
3654.
3662.
3707.
3719.
3724.
3758.
3801.
3873.
3875.
3881.
Improvements in trolley wheels for eieetrioally-propsllsd
vehioles. Smith W. Kimble, 55, Chancery-lane, London.
Improvements in the oonstruotion and mounting of
eleetrioal oonneoting devioes upon their noaroonduetlng
supports. Smith W. Kimble, 55, Chancery-lane, London.
Improvements in the glass ehinmsys, globes, and shades
of eleotrie and other lamps. Albert Cay, trading as
James Stevens and Son, and also as Stone, Fawdry, and
Stone, 7, Staple-inn, London.
Improvements in apparatus for eleotrioaily operating
or oontrolling type-writing maohines, typoHMtting
machines, or apparatus for reoording, indicating, or
signalling. Archibald FitzGerald Law, 45, Southampton-
buildings, London. (Edward FitzGerald Law, Russia).
February 24.
Improvements in shades and refleotors fbr inoandesoent
eleotrie lamps. Frederick Moore, 57, Colmore-row,
Birmingham.
February 25.
Improvements in eleotrio burglar alarms. Ernst Richter,
70, Market-street, Manchester. ((>>mplete specification.)
An improved method of eleotrie traetion : underground
system. William Robert Clapcott Wakley, 23, Princee-
equare, Bayswater, London.
Improvements in eleotrio aro lamps. John Clayton
Mewburn, 55, Chancery -lane, London. (Paul S6e, France).
Improvements in apparatus or switohes for oontrolling
eleotrio eurrenu. Arthur Basil Burnand, 47, Lincoln's-
inn-fields, London.
An improved eleotrie aro lamp. Hermann W. Sander and
Martin D. Memmell, 55, Chancery- lane, London.
February 26.
Improved holder for inoandesoent eleotrie lamps.
William Frederic Parkinson, 7, Kemys-street, GriflBthtown,
near Newix)rt, Monmouth.
Improvements in eleotrie bells. Leslie Watt Winnall
and William Howard Winnall, 4, South-street, Finsbury,
London.
February 27.
Improved insulating media for eleetrioal oonduetors.
Henry Cornelius Donovan, 53, Chancery-lane, London.
Improvements in and relating to eleotrio motors.
Carl Coerper, 45, Southampton -buildings, London. (Com-
plete specification.)
Improvements in eleotrioal aeeumulators. Karl Kahabka,
4, South-street, Fiiisbury, London. (Complete specifica-
tion. )
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1891.
.S748. Kleotrioal insulators. McLean.
4860 Heating and welding by eleetrio aro. Howard.
5712 Insulating eleetrioal oonduetors. Pitt. (Dandson.)
5713 Insulating eleotrioal oonduetors Pitt. (Davidson.)
5714. Insulating eleetrioal eondu : tors. Pitt. (Davidson.)
5835 Kleotrioal measuring instruments. Jones.
5918. Eleotrio batteries Harris and Power.
6372. Eleotrio time-oalls. Varley.
1*2982 Eleotrie time-ebeok. Wether field.
1.3942. Eleotrie eirouits. Parker and others.
18093. Eleotrio fire alarms. Elkington. (Compania Electricista
contra Incendios).
18348. Distribution of ele ^trieity. Parker and others.
21728 Eleotrio aro lanips. Waterhouse.
22482. Voltaic oells. Lake. (Weston.)
22820. Telepbones. Furtado and others.
1892.
106. Eleotrie switobes. Sturge.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Niune
Brush Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, Gutu Percha k Telegraph Go.
House-to-House
Metropolitan £lectric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James*
National Telephone
Electric Construction
Westminster Electric
Liverpool Electric Sup[>Iy
I
Price
Paid.
Wednet
. d«)r
_
3i
2i
10
21 1
o
1 J
—
«l
5
u
H
H
Si
.*»
4S
10
H
H
6
;»
3
2i
\
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11, 1892.
241
NOTES.
Salisbury. — Trauesmen at Salisbury are complaining
of the insufficient lighting of the streets.
Telephone Bills. — ^No less than 112 separate opponents
desire to appear in opposition to the Telephone Bills.
Pbysioal Sooiety. — Prof. Perry will read a paper on
" Choking Coils," at the Science Schools, South Kensington,
at 5 p.m. toKlay (Friday).
Birmingham Cars. — The new cars designed by
Messrs. J. E. H. Grordon and Co. for the Birmingham line
are ready, and will be tested shortly.
Oil Engines. — Prof. Wm. Robinson continues his
Cantor lectures on " Oil Engines " before the Society of
Arts on the next two Monday evenings.
Eleotrio Spark Photography. — Mr. G. V. Boys
will lecture on the above subject at the Lecture Theatre,
South Kensington Museum, on Saturday, at 3 p.m.
Edinbnrgh Tramways. — The Edinburgh Town
Council have unanimously agreed to purchase the tram-
ways on the expiry of the company's lease in June next.
Assessment of Telephone Wires. — At South
Stoneham the assessment for the telephone company is at
the rate of £1 per mile net rating throughout the union.
Explosion. — The following is from the BMeiin Inter-
ncUumcU : " The boiler at the Grarnot station at Provins
having exploded, the distribution of light is suspended."
No doubt it would be.
Deputations. — Under the guidance of Mr. W. H.
Preece and Mr. MacGeagh, a large party, many of them
members of the Commissioners of Sewers, visited the
Crystal Palace Exhibition last week.
Eleetrio Cooking. — A room in the South Nave of the
Crystal Palace Exhibition has been fitted by Messrs.
Crompton with electric heaters ; and its advantages will be
explained daily by Mr. H. J. Dowsing.
Eleotrio Transmission of Power. — M. F. K^ramon
begins a historical risum6 of the developments of trans-
mission of power by electricity in Cosmos for March 5.
The experiments of M. Marcel Deprez occupy the first
number.
Blackpool. — The Electric Lighting Committee have
decided to recommend the extension of the Promenade
lighting. It is also intended to light some of the streets,
and to supply the shops and places of business that require
the light.
Engineers' Exchange. — Mr. Reginald Bolton, of the
Institution of Civil Engineers, advocates the establishment
of a Central Engineering Exchange on the model of the Coal
and Corn Exchanges, where on given dates members might
certainly be found.
Crystal Palace Exhibition, — It may be interesting
to our readers to learn that the admissions to the Palace
during the present electrical exhibition have been to date
about 41,000 more than during the corresponding period
of the exhibition held 10 years ago.
Birkdale. — The Local Board of Birkdale (near South-
port) have had complaints of the insufficiency of the gas
supplied by the Southport Corporation. The suggestion
by Mr. Barrett, that the Board had better adopt the electric
light, met with the hearty support of the chairman.
College Dsmamo. — The Edison dynamo which is
win known to so many electrical students at Finsbury, has
IMk replaced by a larger Kapp machine. We believe that
the Edison machine, which is in good condition (110 volts
and 150 amperes), is for disposal for a nominal sum.
Bristol. — The plans embodying a first plant of
1,500 h.p. are now practically complete, and it is to be
expected that tenders will be invited before long. The
arrangements for coal feeding and so forth ¥rill make the
station almost automatic, only two attendants being required.
Distribntion of Electric Lighting. — At the meeting
of the North E%st Coast Institution of Engineers and Ship-
builders, to be held at West Hartlepool on Thursday,
March 17, a paper on '* The Distribution of Electricity for
Lighting Purposes" will be read by Mr. J. Brentnall
Duckitt.
Blanchester Deputation — The Manchester Gtas
Committee are now in London. On Wednesday they
visited the South London Bailway generating station,
subsequently visiting the Crystal Palace, their visit being
private. The object is mainly to see electrical plant in
operation.
Honse of Commons Lighting. — Whilst the electric
light has been applied in the House of Commons at an
annual cost estimated for the coming year at £1,800, the
gas bill increases rather than diminishes. Last year it was
£3,000 ; for the coming year it is believed it will not be
less than £3,200.
** Electrical World." — Dr. Louis Bell, who has been
editor of our esteemed contemporary the EUchical World
for the past two years, has retired from that position to
undertake more direct engineering work. Mr. Carl Bering,
who has long been connected with the paper, takes charge
of the technical department.
Comparison of Cost. — The detailed accounts published
of the lighting of the municipal buildings of Vienna, where
both gas and electricity are used, shows that, per hour of
lighting, the price of electricity is 46 per cent, higher than
gas. It is expected that considerable greater economy will
be experienced during the coming year.
Bonmemonth. — At the last meeting of the Bourne-
mouth Town Council, the General Purposes Committee
reported that the Board of Trade had consented to grant a
license for the lighting of the pier by electricity. The com-
mittee recommended that the necessary application be made
for the license. The report was adopted.
Royal Meteorological Exhibition.~An exhibition
will be held by the Royal Meteorological Society from
Tuesday, 15th, to Friday, 18th inst., at the Institution of
Civil Engineers, Great George-street, of instruments, charts,
maps, and photographs relating to climatology, and of such
new instruments as have been invented since last exhibition.
Carmarthen. — A special meeting of the Carmarthen
Town Council has been considering the question of public
lighting. Gas is 4s. 6d. per 1,000, and the bill for the
year comes to £450 for 191 lamps. The Council is intend-
ing to offer a lower price to the gas company. A little
information on electric lighting might not come amiss to
the Council.
Telegraphic Communication to Shetland. — At
the last meeting of the Shetland Mails Committee, held at
Lerwick, it was decided to petition the Post Office authori-
ties to lay a cable connecting the outlying island of Fair
Isle with the mainland ; also to make arrangements for
extending the telegraph to the island of Fetlar at as early
a date as possible.
Aberdeen Puhlic Uhrary.—At a meeting of the sub-
committee appointed in connection with the lighting of the
Aberdeen Public Library it was decided, in view al tSv^
242
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11, 1892.
fact that the building is to be lighted at an early date with
electricity, that the gas fittings to be introduced should be
^ of an inexpensive character, and such as would be suitable
for adaptation to the requirements of the electric light
Uanelly. — ^At a meeting of the Llanelly Local Board
on Monday, a letter was read from the Llanelly £lectric
Light and Power Company with reference to the proposed
electric lighting of the town, in which they asked the Bbard
to name their terms for the handing over of the provisional
order. A tender was also received from Messrs. J. D. F.
Andrews and Co., but the matter was referred to a com-
mittee of the whole Board.
Coventry. — With reference to the deputation of the
Coventry Town Council to the Crystal Palace, Mr. James,
in the discussion as to its advisability, said he doubted
whether it was needed as they had appointed a consulting
electrical engineer, they had his advice, and this advice
ought to be taken. He thought it unadvisable to reopen
the question. The deputation, however, as already stated,
was appointed, and will visit the Exhibition.
WhitehaTen. — At the meeting of the Whitehaven
Town and Harbour Trust, with reference to the electric
lighting, the chairman said the surveyor had received a
further tender from Messrs. Andrews. As that matter was
referred by the Board to the Joint Harbour and Street
Committee, he thought it would be convenient if a joint
committee meeting could be summoned. This was agreed
to. The meeting will take place on Tuesday.
Electric Travelling Crane. — The Elektrotechnische
Zeitschrift for March 4 contains an article, with illustrations,
of the new electric travelling crane built by the Allgemeine
Company, of Berlin. It is mounted on a peculiar beam of
L-shape, running on wheels, one rail being on the ground
and the other near the roof of the warehouse. The crane
is mounted on this beam in a covered house, and the
motor winds up, slows, and also drives the travelling gear.
Tesla's Experiments. — The French papers this week
are full of Mr. Tesla and his brilliant experiments. No
man in our age has achieved such a universal scientific
reputation in a single stride as this gifted young electrical
engineer. The Nineteenth Century contains an article by
Mr. J. E. H. Grordon, introducing the subject to the literary
world in admirable and brilliant style reflecting both the
scientific depth and the coruscations of the original experi-
ments.
Taunton. — The question of the purchase of the electric
works at Taunton caused a little scene at the last Town
Council meeting. When the matter came up Alderman
Standfast moved that the books of the company should be
open to inspection, but several members left the Council-
chamber, and one member declined to vote as he was a
director of the company. So nothing could be done.
Alderman Standfast exclaiming, "So that's their little
game!"
Coast Commonioation. — Sir Michael Hicks-Beach, at
the annual meeting of the Association of Chambers of Com-
merce, said that the Grovernment would shortly state their
views on the subject of telegraphic communication to light-
houses and lightships, when Sir Edward Birkbeck's motion
came before Parliament. Sir Edward Birkbeck stated that
every member who had communicated with him was in
favour of a Royal Commission. A motion to press the
question was carried unanimously.
Colliery Ughtlng.— The Duke of Sutherland has
accepted the tender of Mr. Joseph Blackburn, Gresham
L Works, Nottingham, for the supply and erection of engines,
* dynamos, and plant for lighting by electricity the Florence
OoJJj'eries, aad aho a special arrangement by which the
sinking of a new shaft can be carried on night and day.
This shaft will be over half a mile in depth when com-
pleted. The whole work has been arranged and will be
carried out from the designs of Mr. W. J. Furse.
Poisoning liy Oxide of Copper.— -An electrical
workman recently was poisoned at Berlin in a very peculiar
manner, which it will be well for electrical engineers to
note. He had been used in testing his cells to find if
current was flowing to put the two ends of his wires in his
mouth, and the oxide of copper produced eventually caused
his death. The galvanometer is now substituted in that
workshop for this rough-and-ready test, which evidently is
more dangerous than most persons would believe.
Blackpool. — The minutes of the Electric Lighting Com-
mittee,presentedatthemeetingoftheBlackpool Town Council
last week, stated that a draft report had been prepared,
and that Mr. B. Hammond and Mr. Gk)ode (Hammond and
Co.) had had an interview with the committee on the
subject of electric lighting. The Mayor, in moving the
adoption of the minutes, said that inasmuch as their powers
would very shortly expire, he hoped that the committee
would push on their enquiries and lose no time in presenting
a full and exhaustive report to the Council.
Teignmonth. — The Teignmouth Local Board on
Monday considered the project which Mr. Heed, of
Chagford, brought forward for lighting the town by
electric light, at a cost of £12,500, on the low-tension
system with accumulators. The chairman said he had
received letters from Hammond and Co. and the Man-
chester Edison-Swan Company asking to be aliened to
tender. It was stated that the extension of the gas work
would cost £6,000. There is no water power near. Mr.
Wheatley moved that the lighting of the town with elec-
tricity be deferred, and the motion was carried.
Sonthport. — At the monthly meeting of the Southport
Town Council on Tuesday, the arrangements being made
for the adoption of the electric light in the principal
thoroughfares were brought up with reference to the Oas
Committee's report. Alderman Hacking said they must
avoid letting the supply remain in the hands of a company,
who would make a profit of 10 per cent., for the Corpora-
tion could put the electric light into operation themselves
by borrowing money at 3 per cent. He strongly advised
the Corporation to undertake the manufacture of their
own electric light. The minutes of the committee were
confirmed.
NewinflTton. — At the last meeting of the Newington
Vestry the Works and Sanitary Committee recommended,
and it was resolved : " That the Vestry offer no objection
to the order lodged by the Camberwell and Islington
Electric Light and Power Supply Company, Limited, to
light this parish by electricity, subject (1) to the company
consulting the vestry clerk and chairman of the Works
Committee before purchasing or leasing a site in the parish
for the purpose of a generating station, and (2) upon the
compulsory area being extended from the Vestry Hall,
Walworth-road, to the boundary of the parish in Camber*
well-road.
Time Cnt-ontB for Motors. — Where arc lights or
motors are ordered for supply during a certain period
every day it is evidently to the advantage of the supply
company to cut off the current at the exact time for which
the contract is made. The Electric Secret Service Com-
pany have introduced a clock switch, which may finfd a
useful field for this purpose. The clock is furnished with
discs, notched in a suitable way on the periphery, which
cuts the current in or out at the time stipulated. The d|
can be made to act at various times and for various pei
tHE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11, 1891
243
'/
every day. The apparatus is illustrated in the Electrical
World for February 27.
Swindon is greatly occupied with the questiou of public
lighting, and a large ratepayers' meeting has been held.
Mr. A. D. Williams said there was no doubt whatever that
the lighting of the future would be by electricity. He did
not think it would be advisable for the Local Board to lay
down a new gas plant or purchase the old one, as it
was only a question of time before lighting by electricity
became very general. The chairman remarked that the
electric light would not supersede gas altogether, but it
would tend to reduce the price of gas. The idea that
electric light should be used, it seems, is rapidly growing.
Alominiam Manufaotnre in India.~Prof. Alfred
Chatterton, B.Sc., of the Madras Engineering College, has
a very suggestive paper in the Indian Engineer for February
6th upon the possibility of utilising the immense water
power of India for the electric production of aluminium.
Prof. Chatterton enters very fully into the practical details
and financial aspect of the proposed scheme for the use
of 125,000 h.p. He suggests the investment of £1,000,000,
and shows figures, which, though rough, are, he maintains,
under rather than overstated, resulting in a profit capable
of returning 75 per cent, with aluminium at £200 a ton.
Meanwhile it is suggested that a syndicate secure from
Grovernment the right to use the water power of the
Periyar project.
Ho1»art Tramways. — The Hobart Tramway Company
has been brought out this week with the capital of £105,000
(College-hill-chambers, Cannon-street), to establish three
miles of electric tramways in Hobart, Tasmania, on the
overhead conductor system. A contract has been made
' with Messrs. Siemens and Co. to equip the line with 20
cars and the electrical fittings and accessories for working
the tramways, for the sum of £33,000, the work to be
completed so that the line may be ready for opening for
public trafiSc by the 1st of December, 1892. This firm
has also agreed to work the line until the 31st December,
1893, at 4d. per car mile, receiving not less than £1,000
per month, including in same wages of conductors, drivers,
and of all the necessary maintenance staff.
Glasgow Tramways. — The minutes of the Tramway
Committee presented to the Glasgow Town Council last
week contained the report of the sub-committee on
mechanical haulage, and notes of their visit to Chester,
Birmingham, London, and Leeds. Bailie Paton, in moving
the adoption of the report, said the Electric Traction
Company still hold open their ofier. Possibly the best
information the deputation received was at Leeds, from
the overhead conductor line, and they were extremely
pleased and delighted with what they had seen. The three
miles of track had cost £20,000, and had been laid down
in less than six months. The present lease in Glasgow
had two years yet to run, so that there was plenty of time
to watch the development in Leeds before they made up
their mind to adopt electric traction. The minutes were
approved.
Bradford. — The minutes of the Bradford Gkis and
Electricity Supply Committee included a resolution ad-
vancing the salary of Mr. S. W. Baynes, manager of the
electricity works, from £250 to £300 per annum. Objec-
tion was taken to this, unless it were possible at the
same time to dispense with the services of the consulting
engineer, Mr. Sboolbred. Alderman F. Priestman defended
the action of the committee, contending that Mr. Baynes
was a most valuable servant, and was entitled to be
better remunerated now that the electric works were
becoming profitable. As to Mr. Shoolbred, he protested
agaiiut the attempts to injure that gentleman's professional
position, which was similar to that of an architect, and for
all the work he did he only received the small commission
uf 3 per cent. The proceedings were confirmed by a large
majority.
Eleotrio and Cable Railway Bills.— On the
motion of Lord Balfour, last Friday the House of Lords
concurred in the following resolution communicated by
the Commons: "That a joint committee of Lords and
Commons be appointed to consider the best method of
dealing with the electric and cable railway schemes pro-
posed to be sanctioned within the limits of the metropolis
by Bills introduced, or to be introduced, in the present
session, and to report their opinion as to whether under*
ground railways worked by electricity or cable traction are
calculated to afford sufficient accommodation for the present
and probable future traffic ; as to whether any, and which,
of the schemes propose satisfactory lines of route ; as to
the terms and conditions under which the subsoil should
be appropriated ; whether any and, if any, what schemes
should not be proceeded with during the present session."
Sims-Edison Lifeboat. — Mr. Edward Palliser, in a
letter to the Times of Monday, states that Mr. Sims is
preparing drawings for adapting the Sims-Edison electrical
motor and propeller to lifeboats. The system will be the
same as used in the Sims-Edison torpedo recently tested at
Portsmouth. The propeller will be placed in the bow, to
bite the water as soon as possible with 45 h.p. The cable
coiled in the boat will be from three to four miles long. The
boat would be provided with a search-light. The electric
current would be generated from the shore station, which -J-
may be two miles from the starting point of the lifeboat.
He adds that Mr. Edison is taking the greatest interest in
this new departure. The proposal, we may remind our
readers, has already been mentioned, and a trial will be
witnessed with great interest It remains to be seen how
electric cables would behave when attached to a lifeboat in
a storm.
City Lighting. — The solicitor to the Commissioners of
Sewers at the meeting on Tuesday submitted his report,
showing that the dates of the contracts for the electric
lighting of the east and central districts had expired. The
clerk read a letter from the City of London Company,
saying the total length in these districts was 31,105
yards, of which 24,388 yards was laid, and at this ^
rate the work would be finished in three weeks. The
contract for the western district expires November 5,
by which time it would be complete. The solicitor
explained that £1,000 had been deposited as caution-
money. Mr. Johnson strongly opposed the resolution of
Mr. C. T. Harris to consider the whole question in com-
mittee, saying it would be most dangerous to interfere ; it
was impossible to do the work quicker, or the whole traffic
in the City would be stopped. The Court refused to move
the resolution.
High-Tension Experiments. — The days when 2,000
volts were considered dangerously high are fast disappearing
into the limbo where the idea of the danger of 40lb. of
steam has gone. Nothing under 50,000 volts will content
experimenters of the present day. Messrs. Siemens have
this potential going at the Crystal Palace Exhibition, and
we are now in receipt of an invitation from the Old
Students' Association to their next meeting at the Central
Institution, this evening (Friday) at 8 p.m., when a paper
will be read on " The Behaviour of Insulating Materials
under the Action of High Potential Differences," by Messrs.
H. B. and W. Fox Bourne, members, illustrated by experi-
ments with a transformer giving about 50,000 volts.
Members may invite friends. Considering the importance
that the subject is assuming, the Old Students should
244
THE SLEOTRlCAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11, 1892.
obtain a large attendance. It is rather a pity the notice
was not issued a little sooner.
Roohdaie. — The councillors of Rochdale have been
roused to a sense of the necessity for action with reference
to the electric light by reading of the action taken by the
Salford Corporation. But it turns out that Rochdale has
no powers as yet for the introduction of electric mains,
while Salford has, and fears to lose them. Several com-
panies, it appears, have given notice that they wish to
introduce electric light into Rochdale, but have always
been opposed. Alderman Petrie said the committee were
not standing in the way of the light, and as soon as they
felt there was sufficient desire in the town they would
introduce it. Alderman Heape made a suggestion as to
the commencement of an installation by using the water
power on the sewage farm, where there was a disused
ootton mill which woidd give 40 h.p. This might be used
at the technical school, library, and Town Hall. This is
to be brought before the Gbs Committee. The Mayor,
who has the electric light on his premises, said the trouble
was that his gas bill was almost as large as before, so much
more light being used.
Burnley. — At the monthly meeting of the Burnley
Town Council last week. Alderman Lancaster, in seconding
the Gkus Committee's report, said they were making progress
with the electric lighting, though not so rapidly as they
desired. At the present moment they were very much
pestered with people who wished to show them various
systems for working the town with electricity. The
proposal of their engineer (Mr. Parker) was to put down
Lancashire steam boilers driving horizontal engines at high
speed with rope driving on to the dynamo, thus differing
from the schemes of many electrical engineers who
advocated driving the dynamo direct on the same shaft.
Mr. Parker proposed to use the high-tension three- wire
system with transformers. The committee proposed to
erect a station on the plot of land to the left of the
proposed new aqueduct, which would be oue of the most
central sites that could be obtained. The Council passed
the recommendations of the committee, amongst which was
one directing application to be made to the Local Govern-
ment Board for sanction to borrow £25,000 for electric
lighting purposes.
Mansion House Ughting. — A private view of electric
lighting at the Mansion House was held on Monday even-
ing to meet the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress. The
installation, which has been carried out by the Planet
Electrical Engineering Company, consists of 825 lamps of
5, 8, 16, and 50 candle-power. These lamps have been
fitted over the whole of the Mansion House, including the
following principal rooms : Egyptian Hall, Venetian Room,
Long Parlour, Saloon, State Drawing-room, Lady Mayoress's
Boudoir, Justice-room, and Morning-room. The whole
of the work has been carried out to the specification of Mr.
W. H. Preece, F.R.S., and the wire has been run in such a
manner that not more than 10 lamps are placed upon one
circuit, and economical burning has been fully worked out
by arranging that the lamps on all the cluster fittings are
split up into two or more circuits, so that a few lights for
general use may be turned on instead of the whole of the
lamps. The general effect is extremely handsome. The
Lord Mayor stated his satisfaction with the installation,
and during the evening the Lady Mayoress was presented
with an ebony and silver portable lamp as a memento.
Bradford Eleotrlo Oars. — A short length of tram-
way line in Bradford has been taken in hand by Mr.
Holroyd Smith, who has equipped it with overhead con-
ductors for electric traction, for the purpose of experiment,
with the co-operation of the Bradford Corporation, who
will supply the current from their central station. The
line has now been, completed, running from Poster-square,
up Cheapside, to Manor-road and Manningham-lane.
Experiments will be carried out this week, and the car,
which has been built for the purpose, will be run on the
existing lines leased by the Bradford Tramways Company,
the directors of which have given every facility for
the experiment. The car will run for a few weeks, and the
public will be carried at the charge of Id. Official inspection
by Major-General Hutchinson takes place this week. The
car will seat 18 persons inside and 18 outside, the roof
being fitted with garden seats. Great interest is aroused
in the town, especially with reference to the steep gradient
at Cheapside, where there is also a sharp turn. Should
the experiment prove satisfactory the installation may be
made permanent, though probably, it is stated, a conduit
system may be used.
Catalogue of Ship Maokinery.— The very enter-
prising Newcastle company, Ernest Scott and Mountain,
Limited, have issued a valuable catalogue of engines and
auxiliary machinery for war and passenger ships, which
will be of interest to all who have to do with this class of
machinery contracts. Triple expansion inverted cylinder
engines, fitted with automatic expansion gear, for 1501b.
steam pressure, make a very efficient prime motor for
electric light stations. Solidly constructed combined
engines and dynamos of Admiralty pattern have been
specially designed to conform with Admiralty require-
ments for use where space is limited. Another form of
combined plant shown in the catalogue is a compound
vertical engine and Tyne dynamo, of which many sets
are in use. Another form consists of horizontal engine and
Tyne dynamo on the same bed-plate for situations where
head room is limited. The catalogue further contains
illustrations and descriptions of feed, fire, and bilge pumps,
air and circulating pumps, workshop engines and con-
densers, also various classes of forced draught fans suitable
for warships, besides hydraulic pumps, and illustrations of
the large class of gunmetal castings that their foundry is
capable of producing.
Oxygen and Ether. — Prof. De war's beautiful experi-
ments demonstrative that liquid oxygen is powerfully
magnetic ought, we think, to lead to some important
modifications of the theory of magnetic circuits as taught
in the text-books. What a boon to students it would be
if we could only get rid of the necessity for the conception of
ether altogether, especially in the early stages, where a
clear idea of the interactions of molecular force is requisite !
Ordinarily, the student is led to believe that magnetism is
some force resident in the molecular structure of the iron
or steel, but that outside the iron or steel the magnetic
effect is transmitted by the ether. Why not attribute this
exterior action to the effect upon the molecules of the
oxygen of the air itself 1 We shall then have a clear con-
ception of the whole magnetic circuit acting partly through
the iron and partly through the oxygen. Even with an
exhausted bulb we are perfectly aware that millions of
molecules are necessarily left, and with freer paths for
activity than before. Would it not be preferable to con-
ceive the magnetic effect as being transmitted by actual
magnetic effect upon the oxygen molecules, rather than
leave this function to an unknowable ether 1
St. Panoras, — Mr. Andrew Sweet, chairman of the
St. Pancras Electricity Committee, has addressed the
following letter to the editor of the Tin^ : " Sir, — Para-
graphs have been sent to several newspapers and an
impression already widely prevails that the Vestry of St.
Pancras, having withdrawn their Parliamentary Bill, are
tired of electric lighting, and have no intention of extending
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11, 1892.
245
it in the parish. This is entirely a mistake. The first
object of promoting the Bill was to raise money from the
public when a difficulty arose between the Vestry and the
London County Council as to the period over which the
repayment should extend. Since then the difficulty has
been surmouuted and the necessary money has been
borrowed. The present necessity for the Bill, therefore,
has gone. I may add that electric lighting in St. Pancras
is an assured success, and the Electricity Committee are now
taking the necessary steps to extend the public lighting,
which was commenced in Tottenham Court-road and Euston-
road, through Hampstead-road and Camden Town. Further-
more, every day during the last fortnight we have at least
one new applicant for current, and this morning comes an
application from one consumer for about 600 lights.''
Undergronmd Sab-Stations.— A letter was read
before the Beckenham Local Board, on Monday, from the
Crystal Palace and District Electric Light Supply Company,
Limited, asking the Board's permission to construct an
underground apparatus in Sydenham-terrace. The com-
pany's secretary and manager (Mr. Oeorge Offor) attended
the Board meeting. The Works Committee recommended
the Board to sanction the application subject to an agree-
ment at a rent of £10 per annum, and that the Board's
surveyor reported that it was possible to accede to the
request. Mr. C. E. Baker said what the company proposed
to do was to bring in electricity of 2,000 volts strength,
which would be reduced before being used to 200 volts.
The chamber in which it was proposed to store the
electricity would be divided into two compartments,
one of which would contain motor-dynamos and the other
accumulators. The chamber would be entered by a 2ft.
door, and would be 40ft. long by 20ft. wide. The chamber
would only be visited once a day, and dynamos would be
continually running. The Board, it was maintained, had
no power to authorise the construction, as they had no
authority further than the surface of the soil, and the
chamber would be between the footpath and the highway.
After some similar remarks from Mr. Grenside the applica-
tion was referred to a committee.
Oxford. — At the monthly meeting of the Oxford City
Council last week, the General Purposes Committee recom-
mended the Council to appoint a standing committee, to be
called the Electrical Committee, to deal with all matters
relating to the introduction of electric lighting into the
city, with power to obtain the assistance and advice of a
practical electrical engineer. The following were appointed :
The Mayor, the Sheriff, Aldermen the Provost of Queen's,
Wilson, Deazeley, and Green ; and Councillors Underbill,
Morrell, Shadwell, Ogle, Kingerlee, Salter, Daniel, Rose,
and Colonel Swinhoe. The Parliamentary Committee
reported they had considered an application from Messrs.
Walter Webb and Co., solicitors to the Electric Installation
and Maintenance Company, Limited, as to their application
to the Beard of Trade to sanction a transfer to the Oxford
Electric Lighting Company, Limited, of the provisional order,
and recommended the Council to assent to the transfer.
Alderman Deazeley said the committee thought that with
the deposit of £1,500 the ratepayers were held safe in
respect to damage to the streets, and they thought also,
as the new company had precisely the same liabilities and
responsibilities, there was no risk run. The committee
further considered it was undesirable to discountenance
local enterprise, and Mr. Offor who was manager of the
Electric Installation Company, was also a very prominent
member of the new company. After discussion, the report
was adopted.
Xdw«rpoal. — ^The Liverpool Watch Committee, at their
meeting on Monday, came to the decision to postpone the
introduction of electric lighting for public streets. A
report was presented by Mr. Boulnois, the city engineer,
who had gone most carefully into the subject. After
describing the action that had already been taken by the
Council, and the results of the experiments that had been
made, the engineer embodied in his report the information
he had obtained from other towns where the electric light
is now in use for public purposes. He presented plans of
two areas, one including the whole of the central portion of
the city, and the other an equally central but considerably
smaller section. In the consideration of this subject two
things had to be considered : first, the increase in the
illuminating power, and, secondly, equal illumination at
a reduced cost. The engineer explained the best mode
of electric lighting now available, and compared it
with the illumination of the streets by gas. In the larger
area the cost annually would be £9,858, whereas the
present cost of lighting the same is £3,863; but the
estimated cost of the electric light includes the whole of
the expenditure on the insulation, as well as interest on
sinking fund and all initial charges. After discussion,
a resolution was passed that the Watch Committee are of
opinion that, having regard to the conditions of rapid
development to which the system of electric lighting is
now subject, it is not at present advisable to adopt the
system. A copy of the city engineer's report is to be
sent to each member of the Council.
Waterford. — A serious crisis threatens the electric
lighting interest in Waterford, if we are to believe the
Waterfard News, which takes up the question very warmly
in a leader, from which the following is taken : " We have
heard it whispered that the Lighting Committee are
recommending the acceptance of a tender from the gas
company for the supply of the public lighting of the city
at the rate of £2. 10s. per lamp, or just £1. 5s. less than
was paid when this illuminant was in use before in our
streets. This will entail the abolition of electric lighting
in the city. The step is a very serious one, and we fear it
has been resolved on without mature consideration. When
the Corporation went to Parliament seeking a provisional
order for the right to light the city by electricity, it was the
general impression that immediate steps were to be taken
to proem e the plant, and have the lighting carried out
under the control of the Council. In obtaining the pro-
visional order close on £200 of the public money was
expended. How can this expenditure be justified if, a fort-
night after the granting of the looked-for order, a decision
to revert to the worn-out system of lighting by gas is
resolved upon ? We are mystified. The public will want
a very full explanation. At the present moment we see
almost every city and town in the United Kingdom
substituting electric light for gas. In London, Dublin,
Belfast, Limerick, Londonderry, Newry, Kilkenny, and
even in Carrick-on-Suir movements are afoot to adopt the
more modern system of lighting. The electric light has
been established by the local authorities in Carlow. In
Dublin gas is but 3s. 6d. per 1,000ft., yet the Corporation
have decided to do away with it for the lighting of the
streets. We (Waterford) were the pioneers of electric
light in Ireland. Are we now to be the first to go back to
the customs of olden times ? The question is one which
the citizens have every right to insist shall not be decided
in an offhand manner. There is no time," adds the News^
*' to be lost, for, if all we hear is true, the committee have
their report cut and dry for the approval of the Corpora-
tion." The promoters and representatives of electric
lighting will have to bestir themselves actively, and the
complete rout of the gas interest in Larne recently should
give them a powerful lever on their side.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11. 1892.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
Statistics tre ofttimos hard convincera, and it may be so
in the case of the numbers who have up to date visited the
Exhibition. Compared with the corresponding period of
the exhibition 10 years ago, we are told that to the end of
Ust week the numbers were greatly in favour of the present
year — that, in fact, 41,000 more visitors have gone to the
Palace than at the previous exhibition.
The central kiosk of Hesan. Raslilelgh Ptaipps luid
Dawson attracts a lai^e amount of attention from all
of to-day. Meanwhile, we may continue our ordinary
description. Immediately on entering the Machine Depart-
ment we come to Meairs. Cromptoo and Co.'s exhibit
For the sake of those who are not constant readers of this
Siper we may reproduce some of the illustrations of the
rompton system of mains, so fully described in vol. vii.
The example shown at the Palace on one side shows three
conductors ; on the other side five conductors, representiu^
the previous three-wire system and a pair of feeders. The
Municipal Engineers, who visit the Palace to-morrow, will
be well able to determine the value of the system as inter-
fering with streets or pavements. Mr. Crompton makes a
concrete culvert, and strains his copper strip conductors
upon insulators. The illustrations will explain themselves.
They show a Btraining-box, a section of a culvert with three
wires, one with live wires, and an insulator. These culverts
are for use under pavements, when the crown of the cellars
underneath leave sufficient room for the culvert.
The principal exhibit of the Bmsb Electrical Kngl-
DeerinK Company, from the point of view of present
requiremenU, is undoubtedly their central sUtion alter-
nating-current plant. A full-sized set is at work in Uie
Machinery Department of the Crystal Palace, and is
certainly one of the exhibits which no deputation of town
councillors would wish to miss. It consists of a 260-i.h.p.
Raworth vertical eugine, driv-
ing a Mordey-Victoria alter-
nator by end less rope gear-
" ing. This is an arrangement
adopted in several central
stations, amongst ihcm being
the City of London central
station at Bankside, and the
Bath central station. The
lufactured by
visitors by reason of its position, its brilliant illumination,
and the number of different varieties of electric fittinf^ it
contains. Some hundreds of lamps are lighted, and visitors
are able to enter and inspect them at close quarters. The
kiosk is always filled with admiring crowds, and the foun-
tain in the centre, surmounted by a high-power lamp, gives
a cool aifreMO feeling to this noticeable exhibit.
The Machine Department may now be termed complete.
We have arranged for a series of critical articles in each
department — that is to say, on dynamos, on steam tngines,
on gas engines. Each set of articles will be contributed by
an expert, and should, so to speak, determine the practice
UwCrrMal Pilsce.
the Brush Compwv themaelTes at their Falcon Works
Loughborough. They are of the vertical double-acting
marine type, occupying the minimum of floor space, usually
a matter of great importance iu large towns. The speeds
are sufficiently low to avoid undue wear and tear, while
high enough to allow driving without counterahafting.
Special attention has been paid to ^e desifi;n of the lubri-
cating arrangements, and these engines can be run con-
tinuously for days ar weeks together if needed. A highly
sensitive governor is provided, capable of adjustment to
control within 2 per cent. It is furnished with two bells,
BO that the failure of one will not allow the engine to race.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11, 1892. 247
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Cromptoo * DDdMpaoDd H«1ih-B«oUod with ThM WItm ind P*lr dI r—Sm.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11, 1892.
Ths Bnuh Company mostly employ ondlesa rope geariDg
for driving their central Btation dynamos. A single cotton
rope ie pused usually eight times around the engine fly-
wfiael and the dynamo pulley, with what is termed a
machine of this class. The armature is stationary, and is
thoroughly insulated. It is so arranged as to be readily
got at tor repairs, and in the event of a ooil giving way a
new one can be Jaserted with the minimum of trouble. A
ih Compuiy') Mordey-Viotoris AltaniKtor uid Rnitli
jockey pulley, suitably fixed for tif^htening, and to cury l further advantage is that no brushes or rubbing contacts
the crossover rope. This arrangement is practically noise- are required, the mains being connected direct to two
leas, and allows Uie use of shorter driving centres than is terminus. The field magnet is of a simple form, and has
pemiseible with belting. I the advantage, if required, of only one Uu-ge exciting coil,
The alternator is of the well-known Mordey-Victoria
type, which possesses several features distinct from other
alternating-current machines. In the first place, it is very
m>iahi», comprising fewer wwking parte than any other
instead of a large number of separata coils. By revolving
the field magnets instead of the moredelicately constructed
armature, safety in running is assured, while the
weight of the field magnate act as a flywheel to keep
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH II, 1892.
349
the Bpeed steady. An important feature of thii
alteroator is that although its highest efficiency is
reached when fuily loaded, yet it works very economically
with light loads — a point of great weight in central station
work. These dynamos work admirably in parallel, so that
where, as in town lighting, the load varies continually,
extra machines can be switched on with safety. This
enables any circuit to be fed with one, two, or three
dynamoa, so that the machinery can be thrown in as
desired, and in the event of one dynamo or engine having
to be stopped, the others can contiaue without causing
specially designed switchboards. Future requirements,
however extensive, fall naturally into the same system
without difficulty or complication.
The Mordey-Victoria transformers used on the Brush
system for reducing the high electric pressure generated at
the station to a pressure suitable for the house supply, are
of simple form. As with all transformers, they consist
essentially of two windings of insulated conductor
arranged with reference to a misa of iron, so that
the high-pressure currents entering one coil induce low
pressure currents in the second coiL The design aims
Companjr'i TmuIonMr.
variation in the light. A unique feature of these machines
is Uiat the armature in entirely visible during running, and
may be examined then or at any other time without the
necessity for removing any portion of the machine. It is
fully accessible for the purpose of cleaning or repairs
without the removal of any part of the machine. The alter-
nator shown is of 100,000 watts, capable of lighting about
4,000 8-c.p. lamps.
The standard switchboard used in the Brush alternating-
current stations is simple and efficient. All the alternators
Tha Bnuh Campui;! Imncw',
feed into a pair of " omnibus " bars or common conductors,
and all circuits are supplied directly from these bars.
Each alternator is provided with a standard switchboard,
on which are all instruments and connections required,
placed behind a locked glass door. Tha only exterior
parts are the switch handles attached to gut bands
mssing through the lower casing. This prevents all possi-
bility of accident, and renders the manipulation exceedingly
simple. When a station is started, a standard board is pro-
vided for each existing dynamo and one for each circuit.
As further nachines are added an additional switchboard
u inserted. In this way there is no necessity for providing
at economy of conatmction, accessibility for repairs,
thorough lamination, good ventilation, and high
efficiency at all loads. For interior use the transformer is
mounted in a simple manner without special protection.
They can be placed on a shelf or on wall brackets out of
reach. For exposed positions the transformer is made
weather-proof, and mounted on iron castings, fitted inter-
nally with high-tension fuse and switch.
One of the exhibits which always attracts a large share
of attention from technical and non-technical visitors alike
is the row of Brush combined engines and dynamos, which,
with " no visible means of support," are continually merrily
working away as if in regular action. These are driven,
there is perhaps no need to explain, by the dynamos working
as motors ; but the engines in running order, coupled to
Victoria incandescent machines, make a striking show, and
have, as we happen to know, resulted in many enquiries for
this kind of plant.
The beautifully made tramear, constructed by the Brush
Company at their Falcon Works, makes also a splendid
exhibit from the spectaeular point of view, and illustrates
the kind of car the company would provide when orden
for electric tramcars are given to them.
THE RIES REGULATING LAMP SOCKET.
One of the most interesting and ingenious ap^iances
exhibited before the convention of the National Electric
Light Association in America, at its Montreal meeting last
summer, was a form of lamp socket devised by Mr. Elias
E. Riea, of Baltimore, Md., U.S.A., for controlling indivi-
dually thecandle-powerofincandescentlampsupon alternating
circuits. In view of the widespread interest which this
invention has attracted in America, and its great commercial
value in electric lighting by alternating currents, and,
furthermore, in view of the installation now being made at
the Crystal Palace Electrical Exhibition of the Qrat B^Wk
2S0
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11, 1892.
appliances ihown on this aide of the water, a few wotds
npon the aubject of controlling tbe candle-power of incan-
deecent lamps in general, and particularly by this appliance,
may prove of interest.
Tb* Broib OompKiif '• Altaroktliig Swltahboud.
i/L&uj attempts have been made to produce a ntiafactory
and economical metfaod of turning down incandeaceot
Umpa. The earliest experiments which were made by
Hr. Edison and others, and in which carbon rods, plates,
c«ilB of German silver, platinium, iridium, and other metah
were introduced in series with the lamp, thus causing con-
siderabla of the enei^y cut out of the lamp to be dissipated
as heat, proved inefficient or of little commercial value.
Lamps were also constructed containing two or more
carbons, which could be connected in series or multiple, to
vary tbe candle-power, and a lamp invented by the writer
many years ago contained a number of carbons of various
candle-power, which could be separately introduced into
the circuit to give any degree of light desired.
Inventors have Etlso endeavoured to construct an
economical device for controlling the light without the
introduction of resistance, as the value of such a means of
/i^gvlatiog tbe incandeacent light baa always been appre-
ciated, and one of the principal claims of gaa engineera is
that the incandescent lamp could not be turned up and
down, certainly not with the efficiency which ozistad in
the gas system.
Mr. Philip Diehl, of Elizabeth, N.J., has presented the
author with a complete set of the experimental stepa in hia
alternating-current lamps, which show a very interesting
stepping-stone in this direction. Before proceeding £urth»
let meaaya few words upon the piinciple of the reacdon coil
which haa been applied in varions ways by Prof. K Thomson,
Shallenbw^er, Kies, and others, ajiA referred to in the
works of Eleming, Hopkinaon, and others. A reaction coil
of the most simple type is constructed of one coil of a con-
ductor wound round a magnetisable core — probably the
simplest form employed commercially is the ordinary spark
coil used in electric gas lighting.
A direct current passed through snch a coil magnetises
the core and sets up lines of force which maintain the same
direction so long as the current is continued ; there is a
slight heat also produced in tbe coil due to its obmic resist-
ance. Naturally, reversing the direction of the current
reverses the poUrity of the magnetised core. It does, how-
ever, more than this. This reversal of current, and conse-
quent disturbance of the magnetic field, prodacea practically
a transformer with but one coil, in which appears the
impressed KM.F. and the counter E.M.F. The counter
E.M.F. retards the primary current through the coil, pro-
ducing the " choKing effect," as it is termed. In
employing a continuous or direct current the counter
E.M.F. is produced only at tbe instant of closing of the
circuit or reversing the direction of the current, but with
rapid alternating current the counter E.M.F. becomes as
constant as the impressed E.M.F. of the primary current,
and in the Ries socket the ratio of these may be varied,
thus controlling the candle-power of each light inde-
pendently and without resistance, and, as shown by Fleming
and others, with an infinitesimal loss.
When the difference between the two E.M.F. '3 is greatest,
as determined by the position of the regulating Key, the
light is at its maximum, and when this difference is such
that the two E.M.F. 's nearly approximate each other, the
filament glows at its minimum point of light. One of
these E.M.F. 's being variable with respect to the other, it
will thus be seen that lamps of any desired voltage less
than that of the supply circuit can be safely burned at
their normal candle-power, and that standard lamps of any
given voltage or resistance that are supplied with a normal
E.M.F. of, say, SO or 55 volts, can be burned at any
degree of brilliancy required all the way from a barely per-
ceptible glow up to their maximum candle-power. The
most i-emarkable part of this method of electric lighting ia
its extremely high efficiency and the self-contained sim-
plicity of the apparatus by wbich it is carried out. The
writer has in his poaseasion sockets of this character in
which the two E.M.F's so nearly balance each other as to
extinguish the light without even the necessity of opening
the lamp circuit, the amount of energy consumed in main-
taining this balance being so slight as to' he measurable
with only the most sensitive instrument. I have personally
placed lamps in series with a sensitive ampere-meter, and
varied the current from 3^ amperes to ^ of an ampere, as
perfectly as gas is turned up and down, the ampere-meter
indicating the variation in current precisely as if it were a
fluid or gas which was being turned on or off.
The writer has had the privilege of witnessing some
ingenious and beautiful effects produced by Mr. Biea,
which show the facility with which this socket lends itself
to modifications, adapting it to special requirementa. For
example, one is enabled to operate a 110-volt Edison lamp
on a 55-volt Westingbouse alternating circuit, or to operate
a 56-voit lamp on a 110-volt circuit, at the same time to
produce all the variations in light from nothing up to full
candle-power. All this, it should be noted, is produced
with practically no loss of current, and entirely by the
reaction of tbe current upon itself — no moving apparatus
or outside connections whatever, other than the usual
circuit adjustments on ordinary lamp sockets, being
employed.
A very good idea of the general appearance of the Biea
regulating socket, as at present made, may be obtained
THE ELECTRICAL ENGlSEER, MARCH 11, 1892.
2Sl
from tbe accompanjring illustration. Tb« socket comprises
an flnclodng shall of neat design, and but slifihlly larger
than the well-known types of " make and break " sockets
now in use, and contains a small counter E.U.F.
generator, or reaction coil, or choking coil, of peculiar
construction, which, however, may be of any desired
type 10 long as the general conditions to whicn it owes
ita high efficiency are adhered to. In the type of socket
illustnted, this coil consiste of a small, thoroughly lami-
nated, closed iron core built up of numerous rings of
specially prepared iron, the whole being compressed, taped,
and wound at one operation with a special silk-insulated
cable containing a number of separately insulated copper
wirea of different diameter, varying according to the
maximum current to be carried by each, the ends of these
wires, after the cable is wound, Ming connected in series
with each other by contact-pins arranged in the path of an
arm attached to the operating key. The interior connec-
tions are such that, when the socket is wired up, more or
less of the wire composing the coil is in series with tba
lamp filament, according to the position of the operating
key, and the length of wire thus included determines the
amount of counter E.M.F. generated, or to express it in
Tlu Rlci EagnliUds SoulKt.
another way, by cutting out turns of the coil the self-
induction is lessened, and more current is allowed to flow
through the wire to the lamp. The light is divided by this
socket into seven different stages, and the potential difference
between each contact-pin being but one-seventh that of the
total difference of potential on Uie mains, the flashing at these
poinU is very slight, no snap action or other complicated
make and break mechanism being employed. The entire
anangement is one of great simplicity and compactness,
requiring no more attention and Knowledge in operation
than ^e turning on and off of an ordinary gas burner,
which in this respect it closely resembles.
When the lamp is burning at full candle-power practi-
cally all of the coil seotions are cut out — that is to say, when
lamps of the normal voltase of the supply circuit are used.
Usually, however, it is sOTiiable to empfoy lamps of some-
what lower voltage, so that if for any reason the pressure
on the oirmut nils below ita normal, the lamp may be
turned np so as to still give ita maximum candle-power, a
feature not at present attainable with the ordinary type of
sockets in general use. When the full amount of light is
not needed, the counter E.M.F. generated is increased by
the cutting in of additional coil sections, thereby reducing
the flow of current through the lamps and causing the
latter to glow at a lesser degree of brilliancy, and at the
same time materially reducing the strain upon the lamp
filament. The winding of the socket is so arranged that
when the light is turned down to ita lowest stage, the
filament is just visible in the dark, so as to readily
enable one to locate tbe position of the lamp upon
entering the room and to turn it up to the desired
point without having to first feel around for it among
the electroliers or other fixtures of which it forma a
part By tbe nse of this socket one may have some
lights in a room burning at low brilliancy and others at a
lower degree of incandescence, thus distributing the light
exactly where it may be wanted, instead of being compelled
to burn the lamps full on when little light is needed. The
direct effect of this method of regulation is that, with a
e'ven expenditure for current, the average number of
mps in use may be largely increased, and the fact that it
is thus possible to bum the lamps at a lower glow, and
consequently at a reduced average cost for current and
lamp renewals, especially in rooms, hallways, and other
places that may be partially or entirely unoccupied for
hours at a time, will lead to a very much more extended
use of the incandescent electric light than it has hitherto
enjoyed, and at the same time open up to electric lighting
stations a great deal of new and profitable territory
which is now beyond their reach. The saving in
current that this socket is capable of effecting is
almost beyond the belief of one who has not tried
it, and actually surpasses everything that has yet
been claimed for it in this direction. The writer has had
occasion to thoroughly invsstigate this point recently, and
has found that a 25-e.p. 60 volt lamp which consumed 76
watts when burning in one of these sockets at full candle-
power consumed, together with the socket, just three watts,
or only jJjth of the total energy, whan burning at a low
degree of incandescence equal to that produced by a net
¥)tential difference of 10 volts at the lamp terminals,
his means that it is possible to burn 26 lamps at a visible
degree of incandescence by means of this socket with the
same amount of electrical energy that a single lamp would
consume burning at its normal candle-power. Of course,
the light given by the lamp at this point, while sufficient to
render the filament of the lamp visible at a distance, was
altogether too small for the purpose of affording outside
illumination, and therefore this cannot be taken aa a
ciiterion of the average consumption of current in practice,
which would be very much higher, especially as the lamps
are usually burned at nearly full candle-power by the con-
sumer when in actual service for furnishing light, the
intermediate stages being used, for the most part, only for
all-night Bsrvice in sleeping apartments and other placee
where under the existing condition of things the mcaa-
deacent light, if used at ail, would be turned off altogether.
In conclusion, I would call attention to the fact that
while the sockets shown at the Crystal Palace are only
slightlv larger than an ordinary Edison socket, they may
be made considerably smaller where the rate of alternation
is increased.
Douglas (Ikle of Hon). — Tenders are required for
maintaining an electric light installation at F^Ucon Cliff
Grounds, Douglas, Isle of Man. IfHill details can be ob-
tained from Mr. Bowe, secretary, Cliff Company, Douglas.
Aooumnlator Tests. — Prof. Henri Dufour, of
Lausanne, has been making tests with a number of storage
cells with perforated plates. He gives the following
results of his tests with reference to the ratio of capacity
with weight : Huber accumulator (manufactured at Marby,
Switzerland), 146 amperes per kilogramme (2'21b.) ;
E.P.S., 7 amperes per kilogramme; Beckenzaun, 72 amperea
per kilogramme; Farbaky et Schenk, U-2 amperes per
kilogramme.
252
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11, 1892.
THE
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Notes 241
The Crystal PaUos Exhibi-
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Edison 252
The Chatham Accident 253
Correspondence 253
A Description and Com-
parison of the MeUiods
of Electric Li|g;hting at
Present in Use m London 253
An Introduction to Qualita-
tive Chemical Analysis ... 255
Andrews' Conoentric Wiring 256
e
Edison and Thomson-Hous-
ton 256
Oil as an Insulator 257
Electrical Traction and its
Financial Aspect 259
Legal Intelligence 261
Companies' Meetings 261
Companies' Reports 262
New Companies Registered 263
Business Motes 263
Provisional Patents, 1892 ... 263
Companies' Stock and Share
List 264
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EDISON.
Advices are gradually reaching us that in the
financial games as played across the Atlantic, Edison
has met with a reverse. The wire-pullers of the
Thomson - Houston interests, according to all
accounts yet received, have scored a decided and
probably a decisive success. The result is attributed
to enemies at home. Trusted friends and
comrades of Edison, it is hinted, have played
their own hand and left the master's interests
to the care of nobody. It has been our
misfortune on more than one occasion to
sharply criticise actions, financial and otherwise,
taken, or said to be taken, on behalf of Edison ; but
we never expected to have to record his detriment
through a trusted comrade. From first to last, so
far as our history of Edison and his financial work
goes, we have invariably found him putting his
assistants into positions wherein they might make
money. Not one or two, but numbers, have been able
by their connection with him to rise from poverty
to affiuence. We have heard similar things said
of Colonel North — that he never forgets his friends.
Similarly Edison. If the interests of Edison have
suffered because of the mismanagement of one or
more of his trusted colleagues, it is a matter, in its
personal aspect, to be deeply regretted. No doubt,
boom upon boom has hitherto been consummated by
a dexterous use of his name. The public have
parted with large sums of money that have gone
into the pockets of the schemers. From this point
of view a possible good may arise. The public
will be less prone to follow the calls of the charmers
than when the position seemed unassailable. Edison
has done good work, not altogether in the direction
in which he is publicly accredited — so have other
people ; and this reverse wiU enable a more correct
estimate to be formed of the true value of his work
than has been previously possible. So far as we
can gather, Edison has not believed in very high
pressures. The systems he has devised have been
with low pressures, and it must never be for-
gotten that he started from the earliest period of
his lighting work with the view of designing a
complete system of distribution. He studied care-
fully each link in his scheme, and though it was at
first admittedly imperfect, it was a complete system.
Without entering into any question of Swan v. Edison,
we may be allowed to quote a sentence embodying
the view above mentioned — a sentence written many
years ago by one interested in Edison: "But it
must be remembered that even if Mr. Swan's
patents were for a lamp ... his patents
would still amount to nothing unless he had
also invented and patented a comprehensive
system of using them." We presume Mr.
Lane Fox is at present fighting to show he
designed a system in 1878; but this case being
still undecided we must refrain from any comment.
We trust, however, that it is not contempt of court
to point out that Edison, and Edison only,
proceeded at once to carry out his system upon a
large commercial scale. Other inventors designed
machines, or lamps, or cut-outs, or switches, but
no one at that time troubled about a "complete
TtiE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11, 1892.
^53
system." Although Edison may in this game of
finance have met with a reverse, it is not to be con-
sidered for a moment that he will fail to hold a
leading position in America as he hitherto has done.
THE CHATHAM ACCIDENT.
One of the most astonishing, although at the same
time one of the most deplorable, accidents that have
occurred in the history of electric lighting, is that
recorded during the past week as having happened
at Chatham. That a man, however ignorant, should
have the temerity to meddle with an electric light
circuit while the current is on is hardly conceivable.
It is just as if a man thrust a burning brand into a
gunpowder barrel and expected no harmful effects
to follow, though perhaps most would place it on a
par with seeking for a gas escape with a lighted
candle. It is foolhardiness of this kind that brings
discredit upon any industry, for there is no protecting
the man who wilfully puts himself into a dangerous
position. Still, this accident will have one good
effect. It wiU cause engineers to ask if yet
further precautions are not possible to prevent any
man tampering with a dangerous wire in a
house — in other words, is it necessary to have
a wire carrying current under a dangerous pressure
in the house at all ? We are not going to specially
discuss the Chatham case, but to take a wider
view. That danger must exist at some point to
meddling hands is true in almost every industry,
and precautions are taken against hands meddling.
Machinery is guarded, and henceforth high-pressure
terminals, mains, or wires must be guarded. Id
series arc lighting wires are usually out of reach,
but even in these cases notices may be conspicu-
ously posted, cautioning anyone against touching
wires while the current is on. In low-pressure
work the present precautions seem ample, while
in high-pressure work this accident points to
the modification urged by many eminent engi-
neers— ^no transformers in the house. If under
no circumstance a current over a hundred volts
pressure be brought into a house, it is difficult to
imagine where danger can come in. Even in the
transformer station there ought to be little difficulty
in guarding the primary terminals and circuit from
anything but wilful contact. At the present time a
large number of switches ordinarily used are con-
demnably bad, and liable to lead to accident.
Hardly any householder has a perfectly safe
means of cutting off the main circuit, presuming
the transformer in the house. A lambent
blue flame playing across the contact would
fiighten everybody away firom the switch, and
no other way is provided for breaking the circuit.
The handle of a switch, instead of being three
inches away firom the arc, might for the matter of
that be thirty feet away, and the most timid would
not mind turning the handle at that safe distance,
although they would have too much respect for their
fingers to touch the ordinary short handle. This
is not a suggestion — ^it would be ludicrous to insist
upon thirty feet of handle — but what must be insisted
upon is the necessity of providing some method of
breaking the main circuit that shall be absolutely
safe under all circumstances.
CORRESPONDENCE
" Ont nuui'f word is do mui'f word,
Jiutice needs that both be heard."
CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
Sir, — Were you ever electrified ? When next you go to
the Electrical Exhibition at the Crystal Palace you should
be. A few days ago a friend (?) persuaded me to get into
that awful chair, and as soon as the thing began to go the
sparks flew, and I was tortured with a metal brush and
a stick of charcoal until the hair of my head stood on end
" like the quills upon the back of the fretful porcupine/'
Oh, sir, if ever I . Well, you try it, and if you survive
you will probably feel as lively as the great American
baboon of Rangoon that fell out of a palm tree on to the
head of Sir Isaac Newton. Hence the discovery of greased
lightning. — Yours, etc., X.
A DESCRIPTION AND COMPARISON OF THE
METHODS OF ELECTRIC LIGHTING AT PRESENT
IN USE IN LONDON.^
BY ALEXANDER B. W. KENNEDY, F.R.S., M.I.C.E., ETC.
(Concluded from page 231.)
Fig. 5 shows the arrangement of mains which I have
adopted in my own district. It may be rather called a
double two-wire than a three- wire system, and has enabled
me to make a very great saving in copper, as compared
with the ordinary three-wire distribution.
The Chelsea system, to which I have alluded, is one
which General Webber has again lately described in detail
before the Institution of Electrical Engineers, and which
possesses much special interest. A single central station
distributes continuous currents, at a pressure of from
500 to 1,500 volts, to a number of battery stations
scattered through the district. The current does not
go direct to the consumers at all, but goes entirely to
charge accumulators. The pressure is maintained by
charging the cells in series, either in one station or
in several simultaneously. After being thus charged, the
cells are discharged in parallel, so that each set gives a dis-
charging current of about 100 volts pressure. The batteries
are so arranged that one part is always delivering the
current to the circuit, while the other is being charged,
until the charge is complete. The leading advantage of
this system, a very great one, is that the load on the
engines is more or less independent of the fluctuation of
customers' demands, and is therefore steady and fairlv
heavy while it lasts, so that the engines can work with
considerable economy. The drawback is, that the whole
of the current has to pass through batteries, which means,
at the very least, a loss of 15 per cent., and probably more
nearly 25 per cent, in energy, besides all the other losses
in the mains, etc. Time only can show on what side the
balance of advantage lies.
In order to supplement the batteries at times of the
heaviest loads in winter, when in London day is turned
into continuous night, and when therefore the charging can
hardly overtake the discharging of the cells, the use of
what are called continuous-current transformers has been
commenced. A continuous-current transformer is simply
a combination of a motor and a dynamo, so arranged that
the motor part can be, driven by a current of 500 volts
pressure while the dynamo part gives out, like the batteries,
a current of 100 volts pressure. This apparatus is an
exceedingly interesting development in electrical engineer-
ing of which we are certain to hear more.
In conclusion, you will perhaps like me to say a few
words about the cost of electric lighting in houses and
* Reprinted from the TvrMtactions of the Royal Scottish Sodety
of Arts, vol. xiiL, part 1. Read May 11, 1891.
^54
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCfl 11, 1892.
streets, as this is a matter which may very soon affect yoa
closely in Edinburgh. Street lighting is a matter I have
not mentioned yet, because there is as yet none in London,
although the City itself is shortly to be lighted by a
recently formed company. About public lighting the
point to be remembered is, that in the streets people are
not content with electricity unless it gives them 20 to 25
times as much li^ht as they are getting from gas. Under
these conditions it will cost at least four or five times as
much as gas, and quite probably more. Light for light
it will not cost more than about a quarter the cost of
gas, and in any given case a community has simply to
make up its mind whether it is worth its while to pay
extra, although at a cheaper rate, for a very much better
commodity.
As to private lighting, however, the figures are very diffe-
rent Here the cost depends to a very great extent upon
the amount of common sense which has been used in the
wiring and lighting of the rooms and the amount of care
which the householder is willing to exercise. If each light in
a room has a separate switch, so that lights can be added as
required, one at a time — if the lights are not covered up
tate an expenditure of double or treble the current at an
exactly corresponding increase of cost.
I try to put this very clearly in order that there may
be no disappointment later on — at least, so far as I can
obviate it — with the bills which will come in from your
electric lighting company. Let me emphasise one point
still more. If the electric light had to be left on in unused
rooms as gas is left on, its cost would be twice as much as
that of gas. It can only be brought down to the figure I
have named by adopting rigidly the plan of turning it out
always on leaving the room. With electricity this is so
small a matter that practically it is no trouble whatever.
As to hotel and club lighting, where the same economy
cannot be practised, and where, above all, the propor-
tionate number of lights on at one time is always much
greater than in a private house, the cost of electric lights
even with all the economy possible, will hardly be less
than double that of gas at 3s., supposing the electric Ught
to be charged at the rate of 8d. per unit
For shop lighting no figure can well be given, for the
simple reason that the owners of shops generally use the
light partly as an advertisement or attraction, and therefore
Thi9yl jftrfS'
O^Atrvit' SUriUin'
Fio. 5.
and darkened with frosted or iced or opal shades or glasses,
which may be pretty, but which certainly absorb from 40
to 70 per cent, of the light \ if people are content to replace
5-c.p. ^ burners with 8c. p. lamps, and do not insist on
16*8 ; if every room has one switch placed just inside its
door so that it can be turned directly the door is opened,
then the cost of lighting a private house with electricity
will probably be about 25 per cent, in excess of gas, if gas
IS 3s. per 1,000 cubic feet, and electricity 8d. per unit
Here, where I am told that gas costs 4s. fid. per 1,000 cubic
feet, there is no doubt that a private house can easily
be lighted well with electricity at a less cost than with
gas.
But it must be clearly understood that this estimate of
cost does not apply if the house is so wired that two or
three lights have often to be turned on when only one is
required, or if the switches are so placed that it is incon-
venient to get at them in the dark, so that the light is left
on when the room is empty instead of being always turned
out ; or, worst of all, if the house mistress think '' the little
wire in the lamp,'' as she calls it, a detestable object, and
insifts on disguising it by ornaments, which absorb the
grmmter pturt of the light generated, and therefore necessi-
use very much more than there is the least occasion to
use, finding no doubt, as they are the sole judges of what
is good for their business, that it pays them to do so.
Actually the cost of electric lighting is known with great
exactness to be a farthing per hour for an eight-candle lamp,
and a halfpenny per hour for a 16-candle lamp, when the
charge for current is 8d. per unit. On this basis any one
can make out beforehand the exact cost of burning any
number of lamps for any known number of hours.
My remarks have already extended to such a great length
that I will not say anything about the light from the points
of view of health, comfort, cleanness, coolness, and general
convenience. No one who has ever tried it has ever
expressed the least doubt on these matters, and they have
for long been practicallv beyond question.
I can only conclude by expressing the hope that here in
Edinburgh you may soon be able to verify for yourselves
the universal opinion of those who use the lights and I
shall be exceedingly glad if my remarks this evening have
any influence whatever in helping forward the movement
in which I understand your Town Council is already
taking the first steps for supplying the city of Edinburgh
with the electric light.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11, 1898.
2t>5
AM INTBODDCTION TO QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL
ANALYSIS.
BT BARKEB NORTH, ASSOC.R.C.SC. (LOND),
J<rint Author of "Introductory LoMon* " and " Hanrl-book
of Quantitative Analysis."
(Continued from page 162.)
MiCRoccsHic Salt Beads.
A beul of fuied miorocoamic salt reacts in a similar
manner to borax when heated with a few metala, and is
therefore of great value in obtaining a knowledge of the
eomporition of a subetance.
Sow lo Make a Micromsmic Bead.
This is done in the same way as in making a borax bead,
but as microcoimie salt froths up a good deu on heating, a
very small portion must be taken up at a time till the
clear bead is of the proper size and quite free from
bubbles. It is much more difficult to keep a bead of
microcosmio salt on the loop of wire than one of borax,
and if it gives any sign of falling off it may often be re-
tained hy turning the wire round slowly and continuously,
or by holding the bead in the upper part of the flame in uao.
Btaciions Observed : Colour of Bead*.
The reactions to be observed are similar to those of
borax, the colour varying with the flame employed, and
also depending on the heat of the bead, whether hot or cold .
Ezperiment 14. — Heat a salt of copper in a microcoemic
bead made as above described, and notice that in the oxi-
dising flame the bead is green whilst hot, and blue to green
when cold, but that in the reducing flame it is dark
green when hot, and an opaque red after cooling.
Sample Beads .
The student might with advantage make a set of borax
and microcosmic beads from the following tables, and
preserve them in a bent piece of tubing setued up at the
ends, as in Fig. 6. The microcosmic beads may be put in
one limb and borax in the other, a mark being made on
the glass to distinguish them. Two specimens of each
metal should be kept, one made in the oxidising and the
other in the reducing flame, knd by taking account of the
order in which they have been placed in the tube, they
may be used for the ' recognition of another bead by
comparison.
Tahit of Colovrt <Miantd in Borax Bta4$.
O.F.
R.F.
Hot.
Cold.
Hot.
Cold.
Cobalt
Iron
MMgaiKM..
mokel
Blue
Grean
Yellow
Red
Violet-red
Hyadntb-
Bltie
Yellow-
Amethyet
Shenrred
Blue
GrMD
Blue
Opaque red
Bottle KreeQ
Colourle..
Colourlesa
TbUc of Oolmira oblaintd in Microeotmie Beadt.
Metal.
O.F.
R.P.
Hot.
Cold.
Hot.
Cold.
Cobalt
Blue
Oroen
Red
Yellow to
red
Violet
Red to
Blue
Blue to
Colourlees to
brown, red
Red-violet
Yellow to
Blue
Dark green
Dark red
Colourleae
to rod
Copper
Chromiuni...
Opaque red
Dark green
Nickel
to red
Colourleu
Flame CclourtUions.
When salts of certain metals are held on a piece of clean
platinum wire in the outer edge of the Bunsen flame, very
dittioetive colourations are imparted to it, which may be
iH«d (or recognising the pretence of these metals,
Sioanting Plaiinum Wire Used for Flame Tests.
The end of a piece of thin glass rod or tubing is softened
in the blow-pipe, and while still melted the end of a thin
piece of platinum wire, about 4in. long, is inserted, the
two being afterwards fused well together and allowed to
cool. In order to keep the wire clean it may be suspended
in hydrochloric acid in a test-tube, by means of a cork
through which the glass rod is made to pass, as in Fig. 6.
Fig. 5. Fin, 6.
The wire should be well cleaned in acid before using, and
no colouration must be observed when it is held in the
outer edge of the flame, otherwise it is not clean. It is
best, too, to, take only a very small portion of the substance
on the wire at a time, as certain metals, such as copper,
antimony, lead, etc., act detrimentally en platinum, and
great care should therefore be taken if these have been
indicated by the blow pipe reactions.
E:q)erime7ti 16. — Moisten the platinum wire with hydro-
chloric acid before dipping it in a sodium salt, and hold it
in the outer edge of a Bunsen flame ; observe the golden
yellow colour imparted to the flame, and also that the light
emitted causes the skin of the hand to look quite livid.
Esperiment 16. — Now take a little of a potassium salt on
the clean wire, and observe the violet colouration communi-
cated to the non-luminous flame of a Bunsen burner.
Experiment 17. — Mix equal quantities of sodium and
potassium chlorides and test On the wire as before ; the
potassium will be quite hidden by the sodium. If, how-
ever, a piece of blue glass be taken of such a tint and
thickness as to render the strong sodium light invisible,
and the flame from the mixed chloride be viewed through
it, then the yellow rays from the sodium flame wilt be
absorbed, and only the violet colour due to the potassium
will be observed. The blue glass should be carefully tested
with a pnre golden yellow light from a pure sodium salt to
make sure that all the nys from this flame are absorbed.
Ex^pmment 18. — Another way to observe potassium in
the presence of much sodinm is to bring a little of the
substance on the end of a platinum wire moistened with
hydrochloric acid very gradually near to a Bunsen flame.
The potassium salts being much more volatile than the
sodium salts will be vapourised before the substance quite
enters the flame, and the violet colour due to potassium
will therefore be observed first, the sodium flame after-
wards coming eut strongly when the substance is brought
nearer or into the flame.
Wet Kkaciions.
When the dry reactions have been carefnlly gone
through, the substance is analysed in the wet way, and as
this is the more reliable method, it will be a considerable
advantage for the student to acquire manipulative skill in
the working out of the reactions and processes of this
method before treating of the independent reactions of the
various metals.
In analysing a compound in the wet way, we first prepare
a solution of tne substance under examination, and then by
adding other compounds in solution of known composition
we ol»erve tbe effect produced, such as change of colour,
formation of a precipiute, etc. In the majority of teste
which are applied in the wet way, the result obsured will
be the prMootion of a precipitate which ia simply an
256
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11, 1892.
isaoluble compound formed by the reaction between the
reagent and the eubitance under examination. In this
way, by obtaining from various reagents different coloured
precipitates which also have different properties, we are led
to infer the presence or abeence of any metal.
SoLurroN.
This is the first process to be performed in applying
the wet reactions to any substance. We find that many
substances, when mixed with water in the solid state,
gradually disappear, or as we say dissolve, forming a
solution of that substance in water. The liquids which
thus cause substances to disappear, or dissolve, are called
solvents. This is what is known as simple sdviion, as the
substance can be again obtained unaltered by evaporating
off the solvent. Other liquids, however, besides water may
act as solvents ; thus alcohol, in many cases, is also a simple
solvent, and acids, such as hydrochloric acid, may also dissolve
certain substances. As a rule, when acids are used as
solvents, we no longer obtain simple solution but chemical
toiviion, aa, in the act of dissolving, a chemical reaction
takes place, and, instead of the original substance going
into solution, a new compound is formed which is soluble
in water. Chemical ■olution is only used in ordinary
analytical chemistry when simple solution in water fails to
dissolve the substance.
ANDREWS' CONCENTRIC WIRING.
Messrs. J. D. F. Andrews and Cu. have nKSiiUy completed
an installBtion at tha Tjne Theatre, Nowcaitle-on-Tyne, for Sir
Augustus Harris, the wiring being done on their concentric
wire system. Our readers have long been acquainted with this
Hjstem, and visitors to the Palace Exhibition will be able to
fully examine the system for themselves.
In the Tyne Theatre instalktioa the concentric principle is
adhered to throughout, extending to the switches, ruseB,
fittings, etc., and in these, as in the wiring, we note the close
attention which has been given to mechsnical as well u elec-
trical perfection. IncandeBoent lamps are used, and include six
200 c.p.. 12 50 o.p., and about 180 8-c.p. lamps, all of which
are on the stage. The former supeTsede the limelight for the
floats, and. from facility of control and absence of hissing, are a
decided improvement. The remaining lamps are used to
illuminate feBtoons, statuary, etc., and Uie artistic manner in
which they are arranged has a most pleasing effect.
The current is conveyed from the leads by means of
Andrews' patent concentric fiexiblas. The fact of all
fittings having to be connected and disconnected in a few
minutes, owing to changing of scenes, and the consequent
rough usage to which they are subject, is conclusive proof of
their adaptability and mechanical perfection. The esse of
manipulation of this system is obvious when we state that the
electric lighting used in the garden scene of the present panto-
mime comprises nearly 200 lamps ; and at the close of the
scene the whr.Ie nf these, as also the fiexibles. are disconnected
.«„._-A^
Elsctrlc Llghtlni st tha Tjo* TheMn— Andnin' Concantrio WItIdi.
In Bome cases it will be found that the compound to be
teated ia unattacked even by acids, and we may thus fail
to dissolve it either by simple or chemical solution ; such a
Bubstance is called an iasolMe, and in these caees a different
mode of attack has to be adopted.
Eaperijaent 19. — Take a few crystals of lead nitrate and
cover with water in a boiling-tube, the latter being simply
a large test-tube. Show, by gently warming or by allowing
to stand some time in the cold, that this substance dis-
appears, or ia dissolved. When a liquid is boiled in a test-tube,
the latter will often become too hot to be held in the fingers,
and a test-tube holder may be extemporised by doubling up
fltout paper into a narrow strip and holding it by the ends
wruiped tightly round the top of the teat-tube.
Eaperimeni 20. — Now put a little carbonate of lime
or chalk into water, and show that by warming, or even
boiling, the substance remains undissolved. Notice, how-
ever, that directly a little hydrochloric acid is added that
an effervescence commences, and proceeds till the solution
ia quite clear and the chalk all dissolved. The substance
in solution is no longer chalk but chloride of lime, soluble
in water, which has been formed by the chemical action of
the hydrochloric acid on the chalk.
Eaiperimeni 21. — Show that barium sulphate is iusoluble
in not only water, but in dilute and strong acids, such as
hydrochloric and nitric.
(To be amlimted.)
and stored away by two men m the short space of three minutes.
At some points in the pantomime all the lamps have to be
switched on and off. The current is derived from the mains of
the Newcastle and District Electric Supply Company, nf whieh
Mr. W. 0. Hunter is the manager.
The installation, which from its substantial and Gniahed
nature refiects credit un all concerned, has been carried oat 1^
Messrs. .1. D. F. Andrews snd Co.
EDISON AND THOMSON-HOUSTON.
THE PROPOSED AMALGAMATION.
Thomas A. Edison, the " Wizard," the king of pnotioal
electricians, has been " done." The bands of Wall-street manipu-
lators are seen everywhere in the act of hia undoins-
The calm, clear-headed, bi^-hearted inveDtor relied on friendi
and business associates. The former were speculators ; the latter
have largely proved incompetent. The result of the iatellactnal
f ant's dependence will be the BmalgamiLtion of the Edison Qeneral
lectric and the Thomson -Houston Companies. The reorganisa-
tion plan was practically agreed on several days ago. Henry
Villoi^ arranged it. Drexel, Morgan, and Co., the banksra who
have succeeded in obtainint; control of the majority of the stodt of
the Edison General Electric Company, were and are the powers
behind the throne.
The coalition as arranged wipes out the Edison inflnenoe and
e Thomson -Houston Compe
transfers the f^oodwill of a baslness capitalized at lB,000,000doIs.
- ■■ ■"■ TT. ._ ^ The b — ■ ■ ■ - •-
Dg company. ,.„
i^ out bWore Mr. Edlsu, realised what
ijpany. The brainiMt inveotorot the
age IB ashed to play " secono fiddle" to Eliha Thomaon, the prac-
tical man of the absorbing company. The Bch.{|is tna plsaned
by Mr. Villard and c "^ " ' ' '^ "- ""'
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11, 1892.
267
WM bfliog done. He imagined that th» immenM financial tntorwta
he had broaeht into the QenenJ Company were b^ng properly
tiaken care of by the men be trneted. He never expeoted to M in
« position where he woald have to labmit to the dictation of Wall-
atreet manipulatoni.
When the detailaof the amalgamation plan were preaentMltohim
he frowned. It did not take him long to realise uMi he was in s
Had minority, and that those who ware eogineering the aebeme
were In virtual control of a buaineas that he hod spent 15 years
in building ap. He was practically driven oat of the ('snerail
Company. Hgre it the way the situation presented itself Co him :
" when the General Edieon Electric Company was formed in
the latter pait of 1889, the Edison Electric Li^ht Company, the
B«rgmann Company on Avenue B, the Edison Machine Works at
Soheneotady, N.Y., the Edieon Lamp Company at Harrison, N.J.,
and the Spr^ue Electric Railway and Motor Company
ts of the organisation. 1 owned a controlling mtereet in the
Light Company and the majon^ of the stock in the Bergmann
Company, the Edison Machine Works, and the Edison Lamp Co.
"I don't know what thofe inUretts were worth, but I do know
that the oompaniea that now raprMent lS,G(IO,OOOdote, in capital
nnder the title of the General Electrio Company were practically
oontrolled by me. Now, there is not, under the old separate
organisattons. even a Buepiolon of controlling power in my name."
Samuel J. IneuU is the second vice-president and general
manager of the General Company, He has been associated with
Mr. Edison for a number of years. He was Edison's agent in
London, and was invited to assame a reeponsible poaition in thie
coantry.
The Morning Advtrtistr learned on most reliable authorltv
yesterday that a secret meeting was held between Meesra. Villanl,
Edison, and Ittsnll a few days ago. Mr. Edison protested Bgoinst
the amalgamation, and Insull attempted to back up bis chief,
Tillard turned on Insull, and said : " If it had not besn for your
grOBi mismanagement of the afToirB of this great concern it would
not have been Qecessary to enter into any such coalition as has
been promnlgated and is likely to be consummated by the stock-
holdereat the meeting in May."
It is safe to say that Mr, Edieon doee not know exactly where
he stands In the new deal. It was reported in Wall-strept
yesterday that the absorbing corporation would throw him out of
the directory as soon as the amalgamation was completed. There
is no truth in the rumour. It is well known that the Thomson-
Houston people and their Wall-street friends are only too anxious
to utilise Mr. Edison's brains.
The one question now is. Will the Wizard remain on the board
of a ooncem that he known is managed and oontrolled by rival
being ousted from the board
that the manipulators will n
Samuel J. Insull will pn
board and the general management E. A. Collin, of the Thomson-
Houston Company will, it is said, take his place, and Mr. H.
UcK. Twombloy will be the new president. Mr. Villard's work is
done. His personal and pecuniary ambition is thoroughly satliSed.
The salary of 60,O00dols. that attaches to the office of president
be cares nothing for, as he declared some days ago to a Morning
AditriiMr representative. "The duties of the office are too
exacting for the smalt compensation."
Mr. Edison's friends declare that he has been taken in by Wall-
street ' ' promoters. " — New Yorl: Herald.
OIL AS AN INSULATOB.*
At our last meeting Mr. Preece kindly gave me credit for being
the first to propose the use of oil as an insulator for wires con-
veying an electric current ; and in occordauce with a suggestion
on his part, I should like t«i state upon what grounds I can fairly
be considered to be the first to urge upon the electrical world the
use of hydrocarbon oils, such as petroleum and rosin oU, for this
purpose.
In 185S universal regret was felt on the failure of the insulation
of the first Atlantic cable. From the first successful laying sf
this cable the insulation gradually became worse, until in a few
days all signals failed. The cause of this was supposed to be due
to minute flaws in the guttapercha during its manufacture, which
became worse by submersion, or that lightning, or the intense
currents tiien used for the Wbitebonse induction coil, punctured
the cable at several points.
It appeared to me (from some old experiments of mine) that
what we needed was some form of insulation that possessed self-
restoring powers, BO that, if punctured by lightning, or our
ordinary working currents, the puncture should be closed bv seme
simpler process than having to take up a portion of the cable. I
thought that Nature showed as the way in which dhe restores
I should find, by i
kind of oil and the mest suitable form of cable to carry out this
idea. Kooning that I could not fairly test these oils, or a short
length of cable, by our ordinary voltaic currents, I had recourse to
the very high potential currents given by the ordinon friotional
static olectric machine. The method used was this ; I charged a
battery of Leyden jars to a known degree, which weis indicated
upon the Leyden jars by a Peltier electrometer ; these jars, when
charged, were put into communication with the short niece of the
cable to be tested, the outside of which was coated with tinfoil, or
placed in water connected with earth, and exterior of the Leyden
jare. By this means, if the insulation of the few inches of cable
was bad, the Leyden jars would Instantly be discharged tbraurh
the defective insulation ; hut if the insulation was comparatlvdy
perfect, the time of discharge of the electrometer was a oorreot
measure of its inenlating properties. Of oourse this method re-
quired that the Leyden jars should l>e perfectly insulated and hold
tlieir full charge for at least one hour when not discharging
through a defective cable.
On making preliminary experiments on several samples of gutta-
perch and indiarubl>er-coated wires, I found a marked difference
in each variety ; hut as these diOcrences were of a constant
character for each sample, it was eaty to tetl which of these had
the highest insulating property. These experiments showed me '
that if I wished to arrive at the true value of on insulating oil I
must make the experiments by a method by which the reaolt
should be entirely free from any interior or exterior coating. For
this I took two small flat circular discs, lln. in diameter, which
could be immersed in oil, and by an insulated adjustable screw I
could compare the striking distance of these discs in air, compared
with the same when immwsed in oil, and could aleo observe the
reauired for a complete dischatge of the Leyden jars threogh
meJiu
pnnctnree and mechanical injuries to all living objects. This is
done by a flow of liquid sap to plants, or blood in animals ; for if
we mMceon incision in the bark of a tree, the sap Sows out and
hardens in contact with air ; if we cut our fingera, blood flows out
and heals the wound. Therefore, T thought that il I could enclose
in a cable an insulating Belf-reetoring medium, the cable would
not become dead at the nrst, or even after innumerable punctures.
To carry out this object it seemed tome that a thick insulating oil,
enoloaed between the wire r-' "- - •- ' ■ - " ^ ■'
fnlBl the oonditions required.
s outer skin, would perfectly
On testing numerous samples of diSerent oils, I found n
a great difference in the species of oil, but also a great dii
in different sampler of the same oil, consequently a table giving
the results on different oils might be misleading, as a sample 01
superior quality of a certain oil (although inferior in many other
samples) might give higher results than a badly selected sample
of a really superior oil. The only difflcoltj as regards rosin oil is
one of manufacture, or, rather, of finding, and teaching the
makera, the quality of oil beet suited for the purpose; for I found,
on obtaining samples of this oil from difierent makers, that a
great dlflerenoe existed as regards their insulating properties,
ranging from worse than castor oil up to a degree superior to
guttapereha : and this is true of most oils ; consequently, before
using any oil, its quality as an insulator should tw thoroughly
known by coniFtant electrical testa.
In selecting oil of high insulating quality, we must also have
regard to the purpose for which it is to be used. Thus, as a self-
restoring mediam having very quick action, for oondensera,
transformers, or coils so closely wound as to be difficult for a
thick oil to penetrate, a thin rosin oil, such as rosin spirit, might
t*e best ; but for cables and underground wires I found thick pure
rosin oil best, beoanse it was not only superior as an insulator, but
it would not eecape too rapidly at any large puncture.
Experiments were also carried on at the same time to observe
the effect of any given oil on thin sheets of guttapereha, india-
rubber, etc. These were immersed In separate vases of differenb
oils, they were weighed before and after prolonged immenion ;
the result being that some oils were found to be injurious to gntt*-
percha, and almost all, with the exception of castor oil, were more
or less destructive to indiarnbber. I found, after namerous exporf-
ments, that pure rosin oil gave the highest insulation of all, lor a
spark that would pierce a given thickness of guttapereha would
utterly fail to pierce the same thickness of rosin oil ; whilst, if tbo
guttapereha was pierced, its insulation was destroyed and could
former ooodition ; on the other hand,
'as pierced, it, by its own mobility, «b
to its original state. Rosin oil, at the
time, had a preservative effect upon guttapereha, for the
sheets immersed in tjiis oil bod become slightly increased In
weight, showing that it had penetrated into the pores of the gutta-
percha ; at the same time it was stiSbr and tougher than before
Immeraion. I will now show you an actual specimen of this
fluid cable, cue off from a specimen one mile in length, made by
the Qntta Pereba Company 33 years since. You wUl observe
bbat the guttapereha has absorbed during that time a large
proportion of the oil, and that the guttapercha is now, after 33
years' exposure to the air, apparently as good an insulator as when
fint made-
Experiments were now made as to the value of roaiii oil whm
employed as the sole insulator of an electrio cable. Vow this
Eurpose, a short leneth of copper wire, say, If t. , was coated,
rst, by being wound by well -dried cotton or hemp, or, better still,
by a string wound round in wide open spirals, in order that the
oil should penetrate as freely everywhere as possible ; this was
afterwards drawn into a small lead tube filled with rosin oU : thus
the string or fibrous covering on the wire was simply to keep the
wire concentric, so as to prevent its touching any part of the
exterior tube without some separation of oil or oil-sotareted fibre,
[t will be seen that these teste were Identical, both as to form and
material, in tbeir esssntial points, with those patented by Mr.
David Brooks, of Pbilodelpbia, some IB yeora later ; but aa tbew
ore clearly described in my pstent of January lltii, 1859, tbera
Ota be DO question of priority In this reapeot, though, no donb^
not be easily restored ti
if by accident the n '
once restored the ir
258
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11, 1892.
many improvements suggested by practical experience in the
mode of laying and manufacture are original with Mr. Brooks.
The Insulation of this form of cable was not quite as high as solid
guttapercha, due to the fibre not being as g^ood an insulator as the
enclosed oil, but its mechanical powers of self-restoration and
durability seemed to me to more than counterbalance its slightly
lees insulating power, for even with guttapercha there are
questions of strength and durability which ought never to be lost
Biffht of in favour of a temporary high insulation ; and I think that
when the value of fluid insulation is more thoroughly known,
especially for currents of hieh potential, it will be more generally
used than at present, particularly as there are now no valid patent
ri£|hts to interfere. I again repeated these experiments, using a
tlunly -covered guttapercha wire for the inner conductor, drawn into
a g^uttapercha tube lull of rosin oil. This gave me very high insu-
lation— so much so, that 1 tried a bare copper wire in the gutta-
percha tube alone, without any rosin oil ; tnis, to my surprise, gave
afar higher insulation than the best euttapercha-covered wires as
supplied to me bv the Gutta Percha Company. This surprised me
very much, as tne tubes, which I bought at an ordinary retail
shop, were known to be of an inferior quality of guttapercha. I
found afterwards that this difference was due to the tubes havin?
been long made and kept in stock ; they had gradually dried, and
were free from combined moisture absorbed during their manu-
facture. I proved this by taking some newly-manu^tured gutta-
percha, and heating it gradually for a length of time sufficient to
drive off its moisture ; this, when modelled on a wire, so as to
form a cable, gave precisely the same degree of high insulation as
the old tubes that I bad purchased elsewhere. I do not believe
that the mechanical quality of the guttapercha was improved by
this operation ; most likely it would have soon become brittle, for
humidity, or an essential oil, seems necessary to its life and
mechanical qualities. I told Mr. Chartterton ana Mr. Willougbby
Smith, of the Gutta Percha Company, of these results, and urged
upon them the necessity of well drying the guttapercha ana of
manufacturing their cables, if possible, without constantly mace-
rating it in water. I am not aware that my remarks had any
effect, but this I remember, that in a few weeks after they gave
me a sample, which they called "special guttapercha," which
oertainly had as good insulating qualities as my dried guttapercha.
As I have alreiuly said, my main object beine to produce a self-
restoring insulation for cables and undergrouna wires, I found that
a thin fluid, such as rosin spirit or petroleum, might be objection-
able, as at the point of fracture or puncture the fluid might escape
with so great a rapidity as to be somewhat costly in its mainte-
nance ; but by em')loying a thick, heavy, insulating oil, whose
rate of flow would be small, this would displace any water in the
puncture, provided that there was a slight head-pressure given to
the oil at a reservoir at certain landing stations, then it would
answer all practicable purposes. For this I preferred rosin oil,
which is already a Uiick, viscid oil, and can be made more so by
the addition of solid rosin dissolved in it, or by the addition of palm
oil residue, which has a remarkable property of thickening resin
oiL In order to satisfy those who might object to even a very small
leakage of oil at the puncture, I made several compounds of rosin
oil, mentioned in my patent, that should harden when in contact
with water, and thus prevent any waste of oil at the fault or
puncture. This static cnarge which I used was of high potential ;
the sparking distance in air, of the charge used, was about lin.,
and it showed the remarkable insulation of rosin oil when t^^in.
separation would effectually prevent such a spark passing through
it. After having found this high insulating property of rosin oil,
I coated all my Leyden jars and all parts where I desired high
insulation with it, and by this means I was enabled to retain a
full charge of the Leyden jars for several hours, in an atmosphere
full of humidity. They have lately proved the value of oil insula-
tion in Frankfort by the use of oil in transformers of 20,000 volts,
and I am convinced that in all cases where we need a high insula-
tion, together with the power of self-restoration, it can only be
found in fluid insulators. It is useful in every case where it can be
applied ; it is far cheaper than guttapercha, and I have no doubt
that it will soon be used for insulation in condensers as well as
transformers. Mr. Nikola Tesla, in his late charming lecture,
spoke highly of the use of oil in his transformers, saying that it
not only gave a perfect insulation, but had the power of restoring
the insulation whenever pierced or punctured, as he believed his
coUs were at least several times every day. I remarked during
these experiments that, no matter how high the potential, the
amount of leakage was equal in time, either with a high or low
charge of the Leyden jars — that is to say, when the Leyden jars
were dischai^ine at a slow rate through a good insulator, the time
of falling OS the electrometer through any given number of
degrees was very equal throughout its whole range from 200,000
to 1,000 voltfc.
Being desirous of repeating this evening some of my old experi-
ments, i applied to Mr. W. H. Preece for some of the best samples
of guttapercha-covered wires as used by the Post Office, and which
he lias most willingly sent me. I also applied to Mr. James
Wimshurst, the inventor of his remarkable static electric machine,
who at once most kindly consented to lend the machine, and also
design an arrangement by means of which we could show to those
at a distance the different distances of the sparking through oil
compared with air. On testing this apparatus with oil, it seemed
to show that the value of oil as an insulator increased both with
the potential of the charge and also with the rapidity of alter-
nations, for when the experiments were made by an impulsive rush
so as to have the greatest number of oscillations per second — say
1,000,000— then even the poorest oil, such as castor oil, showed
marked superiority over air or guttapercha. This confirms the
fidnuit0i^ of mi, Mod its value in connection with the rapid alter-
\
nating high-voltage currents used in our transfermers of to-day.
The experiments whidi we hope to repeat this evening have
already shown us that a spark, or charge, xrom a Leyden jar which
would easily pierce 4in. of air will not pierce iV^> ^^ rosin oil ;
proving that oil, when resisting an impulsive rush of a charge,
has 79 times higher insulation tnan air. To obtain these results
we used a large and most powerful Wimshurst machine ; but this
evening, for convenience M^e, we shall use a smaller machine.
We may not be able to obtain quite as high comparative values,
still we hope to obtain results showing oil to be 50 times better an
insulator than air. With the largest machine we obtained the
following remarkable effects. The apparatus for holdine the oil
was a glass vase, 4in. in diameter by Sin. deep. The lower
portion of this vase had a copper plate connected with one portion
of the circuit. A brass knob, ^in. diameter, connected with the
other portion of the circuit, could be raised or lowered in this
vase in order to show the different striking distances when the
vase contained air or oil. This gave the comparative results
already mentioned ; but, in addition, we noticed that when the
knob was only covered three-quarters with oil, the spark rose
from the upper portion to the upper portion of the vase, and then
descended on tne outside in order to reach the lower copper
plate— a course of some 5in. through air, compared with ^in.
through oil. If now the current was increasedf, the current, or
spark, became a continuous sheet flow all over the entire surfiu^
of the vase, resembling in appearance a waterfall, or exactly
imitating the well-known Gassiot cascade. On again increasing
the charge, in an attempt to pierce the oil, the spark pierced the
glass vase, making a smaJl hole of about V^in. diameter, at a place
^in. above the sunace of the oil ; thus the spark preferred to pierce
the glass and travel several inches through air, rather than traverse
a distance of ^in, through oil. I will now show several forms of
oil insulation as applicable for submarine or subterraneous wires,
and the remarkable power of self -restoration when the insulation is
temporarily destroyed by a puncture or cut across so as to lay the
wire bare for an instant.
It will be seen in the experiments following this paper that I
have arranged a battery so that one pole is connectea through a
sensitive galvanometer to a metal tank containing salt water, the
return circuit being completed through the salt water and wire to
be tested to the other pole. If we take any sample of guttapercha-
covered wire and place it in the water, the insulation seems per-
fect and all that could be desired ; but if we make a small incision
with a knife, so as to leave a minute portion of the copper exposed,
then, as we already know, on placing this in the tank, the water
at once percolates through the cut to the wire, and its insulation
is completely and permanently destroyed. If we try this same
experiment with oil cable, such as a bare copper wire in a gutta-
percha tube containing oil, or, better still as a proof, a thinly-
coated guttapercha wire, and this plunged into a small lead tune
containing thick rosin oil, the whole having the same diameter as
the guttapercha-covered wires, we find on testing this lead-covered
oil cable that its insulation is as perfect as the guttapercha wires.
If we now cut through the lead tube and the guttapercha Mrire
once or several times, so as to lay the wire bare, the insulation for
an instant is destroyed, but in less than a second the oil percolates
through the wound or cut, and its insulation is instantly restored
to its previous high value. I believe that these experiments
sufficiently show the merits of a self -restoring insulating medium,
such as rosin oil, for all purposes where a permanent insulation of
wires conveying an electric current is desirable.
In conclusion, I will mention a few proofs of my claim to be the
first to recognise the value of oil insulation for wires conveying an
electric current, based upon some earlier experiments, but patented
January 11, 18i59, entitled '*An Improved Mode of Insulating
Electrical Conducting Wires," which aescribes and claims meet en
that which I have already related. I will read a few sentences, in
order to prove this fact. After showing how the oil may be
applied to submarine cables, and in order to claim its appUoation
to underground wires, the specification says (page 3, kne 10) :
** With some trifling modifications, the invention may be also
applied for insulating electrical conducting wires employed on
land or underground." As regards the materials used, it says
(p. 4, line 23) : *' I propose and prefer to use rosin oU, rendered
sufficiently thick or viscid for the purpose by the addition of
rosin or the solid residuum obtained from the distillation of
palm oil." In order to show that the interior wire may be
covered with a fibrous material instead of guttapercha, it says (p. 4,
line 34) : "Instead of bringing the soft or semi-fluid restorative
medium in direct contact with the enclosed wires, I sometimes first
coat the wires with a non-conducting material, such as guttapercha
or indiarubber, and if preferred, the wire may be previously
covered with some fibrous material." My invention being as weU
adapted for numerous wires in an underground cable as in a
single- wire cable, it says (p. 5, line 6 :" And the invention is
as applicable when two or more electrical conductors are placed in
one common tube or outer covering as when only one conductor is
employed." If the patent is hurriedly read, it would seem as if I
only intended to use the oil in connection vrith guttapercha cables ;
but I foresaw the use of other outer covering, such as lead or iron
tubes, for it says (p. 4, line 37 ) : *' The insulated electrical con-
ductor thus coated or coverea is then placed in a guttapercha
or other tube." This phrase "other tube" referred to my
experiments with an outer tube of lead or other metal ; and I
again employ the same phrase at page 5, line 13, where it sa^s
that the wires surrounded by the rosin oil " may be placed ki the
guttapercha or other outer covering." A paper on this subiect
was read before the Society of Arts and publiriied in ineir
Joumai April 15, 1859, in which I demonstrated by practical
experiments the restorative powers of my fluid insulatioii«
\
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCfl 11, 189-1
^d
Sir William Fothergill Gooke, the chairmaD, in reply, spoke in
praise of the results, and said he " also thought the invention
would be very valuable as applied to the street wires of electric
telegraphs, and these afforded more facilities for testing its
value. " So it cannot be said that its applicabUity to underground
wires was not foreseen at that date. From 1858 to 1860 I tried
by every means to get the various land and submarine electric
telegraph companies to try this system, but in vain. I thus lost
two years of valuable time, ana then went to France in oon-
nection with my printing telegraph instrument, to which I
devoted my whole time ^r many succeeding years, thus prac-
tically abandoning mv self-restoring fluid insulation to the public.
The cause of its fauure to be uAd then was due to the fact
that the invention was made before its time, or that the need of
its use was not then as great as at the present time. I am glad
to say that now, thanks to electric light and power, the use of a
self-restoring oil insulation is fast coming into actusd practice
under the names and patents of numerous succeeding inventors ;
so I sincerely thank Mr. Preece for citing my early work, and thus
fi
vmg me this opportunity of claiming as priority the work that
had done before and patented in 1859.
My best thanks are due to Mr. Preece for the samples of gutta-
percha, wires, e:alvanometer, etc. ; to Mr. James Wimshurst for
Uie loan of his static electric machine, and for his great assistance
in preparing some of our experiments on high-tension currents ;
also to Messrs. Grindley and Ck)., of Upper North-street, Poplar,
for having supplied me with numerous samples of their best oU,
from which I have selected the oil that I have used this evening.
ELECTRICAL TRACTION AND ITS FINANCIAL
ASPECT.*
BY STEPHEN SELLON.
Considerable difficulty has been experienced in obtaining
reliable statistics in connection with electrical traction as regarcu
its alleged economy over other motive power. The author has
therefore devoted considerable attention to this subject, and has,
through his connection with electrical companies, been able to
collect information which may be considered reliable. In claiming
certain advantages for one system over another, especially as
regards initial cost and working expenditure, the author has
purposely adopted a somewhat dogmatic tone as an incentive to
promote criticism and useful discussion, and for this purpose,
especially as regards the commercial question, is this paper
suggested as a means of ventilating this most interesting subject.
The well-known systems of electrical traction before the public
are the following :
1. Accumulators, consisting of the E.P.S. and the Julien types.
2. Overhead, consisting of the Thomson-Houston, Ekiison,
Sprague, Short, Rae, United Electric Traction Company, Daft,
and Van Depoele types.
3. Conduit, consistine of the Lineff, Gordon, and Wynne types
for closed conduits ; and the Waller- Man ville and Blackpool types
for open conduits.
For the purpose of convenience the author will consider each
system in tne above order.
ACGUMULATOB StSTEM.
This system of traction, which involves canying the necessary
Sower stored up in the cars by means of storage batteries, has
een attempted to a small extent in America, Brussels, London,
and Birmingham. Having no exposed conductors, the system is
favourably looked upon by local authorities and tramway com-
panies. As a mechanical means of traction it is workable and very
fairly satisfactory. In a commercial sense it has proved a failure.
Apart from it* features of rapid depreciation and great weight,
the accumulator system of electric traction is preferable to any
other. Its chief defects are (1) a great increase to the tare weight
of the car, varying from five to six tons— most horse tramways are
not built strong enoueh to receive this additional load ; (2) the
rapid deterioration of the plates (estimated at nearly 200 per cent.),
and requiring frequent renewals. No reliable figures have been
fiven as to the operative expenses of the accumulator system,
ut its abandonment at Brussels and in America is suggestive of
commercial failure.
On the Birmingham Central Tramway, it is stated, by a report
of the directors issued August 11th, 1891, to be a success, but no
item 18 given for depreciation, as compared with other methods of
traction. The following table gives the working expenses per car
mile for the four different systems of traction in use by this
company:
Working cost per car mile with steam 10*99d.
Working „ „ horses 9-79d.
Working „ „ cable 6-33d.
Working „ „ electricity 9'90d.
It is worthy of note that this tramwav company, in an extension
Bill last session, fought the telephone clauses most vigorously, and
on being defeated &ey abandoned their Bill. This action would
point to a disbelief in self-contained oars, to which the telephone
clauses do not apply, and that the directors realised the necessity
of seeking powers for the establishment of a different system in the
future.
The National Telephone Company over the whole of their system
* A paper read before the Society of Engineers on Monday,
March 7.
use the earth as a medium for their return circuit. The current
used by them is so exceedingly minute that any larger current
disseminated through the earth in the same neighbourhood creates
such a disturbance by induction as to render the telephones practi-
cally useless.
For this reason the telephone company has, in late years, made a
most vigorous opposition in Parliament to any tramway company
asking for electrical powers, unless they accepted certain telephone
clauses in their Bill ; these clauses practically allocate the use of
the earth for telephone circuits alone. In view, however, of the
opinions expressed by Mr. Preece, the electrical engineer to the
Post Office, and other authorities, the author was the first to
refuse to accept the introduction of these clauses in a Bill he had
the conduct of, and he succeeded in conviucine a committee of
each House of Parliament that the earth should be a common
property, and each company must protect themselves from external
electrical influences.
In consequence of an alleged disturbance to the Leeds telephones
by the working of the Roundhay Park electric tramway, the Act
for which contains no telephone clauses, an action for damages ha^
commenced between the National Telephone Company and the
Roundhay Tramways ; the result will be looked forward to with
interest by the tramway and electrical world.
The Overhead System.
This system, which is to be seen now in operation on the
Roundhay Park section of the Leeds Corporation tramways, is the
first introduction of its kind into Englana, and the author was one
of the parties concerned in obtaining the concession. * The line is
5^ miles in leneth, and has now been working for more than three
months. The fact that the Leeds Corporation have lately granted
an extension of the system speaks well for its popularity. The
diagram shows the method adopted for supporting the trolley wire
or conductor. Six cars, each carrying two 15-h.p. motors, serve
the line, and the generating plant consists of a sinsle high-speed
engine belted to two 80-hj>. dynamos ; the whole of the dectrical
work was supplied by the Thomson-Houston Company, of America.
The marvellous development of this system in that country during
the last six years is shown by the following table :
In 1885 there were 3 roads equipped with 13 motor cars
„ 1886
i»
5
39
„ 1887
i>
7
81
„ 1888
*»
32
265
„ 1889
, •
104
965
„ 1890
>•
126
2,000
„ 1891
»f
405
5,099
„ 1892
»»
436
5,851
The following are the principal firms supplying installations on
thi8 system and their mileage extent :
No. of roads. Mileage. Motor cars.
Thomson-Houston 200 2,113 3,040
Edison (Sprague) 167
Short 26
Rae 36
United Electrical Trac-
tion Company (Daft) ... 20
Van Depoele 7
Total.
436
987
180
157
62
3,532
• • • • •
2,061
301
278
116
55
5,851
Beyond mechanical details the principle is substantially the same
with each firm. The Thomson-Houston has the largest business,
which the author thinks is owing to an elaborate system of testing
and inspection before work is allowed to leave their factories, ana
to general excellence in detail work which has prevented the
unfortunate failures in motors, etc., which were so frequent in
the earlier days of electric traction. They cannot claim, however,
either cheapness or superiority of manufacture.
The objection to the general introduction of the overhead system
in England is the necessity for an overhead conductor and the
erection of standards in Uie streets. This is, however, in sonie
measure an insular prejudice soon to be removed, and though it is
doubtful whether tne overhead system can be introduced in the
centre of laz^ towns, it will, without doubt, be largely used in
the suburbsji districts. Within the last few months such towns
as Walsall, Leeds, and Bradford have assented to its adoption in
their outskirts. It is without exception the cheapest in initial
cost, but the working expenses, though lees than those of accumu-
lators, are not necessarily less than the working expenses on the
* ThiH tramway was fully described and illustrated in our ierae
of November 6, 1891.
THE EtECTRlCAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11, 1892.
oondait lyibeiii of electrio»l tnuition. Statistics reoeived from
Ameritu ibow s lu^e inorearo in roTODue aod a decreaso id I
working expenses of tramwaj's aftar iM adoptioo, and in dealing
with these ttgurag it is neceaaary to remember that as the Railway
CommiaaioDeri in America have the power to reduce tramway
tmrea on publication of .good dividends, it is against the policy of
the various companies to publish returns showing large profits.
The following show the working expenses of some of the beet
known electrtoal tramways as against horse, steam, or cable
traction. In comparing English and American statiatioi it is
necessary to remember that the percenbaee of working expenses
in America is larger than that in England, owing U> laiiour being
mnch dearer and also the extra price of coal where mechanical
power is need. According to the reports issued by the Railway
Commission era in America for the year ending June SOCh, IS90,
the average working expense of horse tramways is 79 per cant, of
the gross earnings. The average workinc* expense of horse tram-
ways in England, according to the Boara ot Trade returns, is 77
per cent, of the gross earnings.
The largest street railway system in the world is the West
End, Boston, Mass. Electric traction is fast supplanting horse
traction on this line. In June last the mileage proportion between
horse cars and electric cars stood at 3 to 1. The operating expense
by horse traction was 6670 per cent, of the gross earnings, while
that of electric traction was 4T'70. The electric cars are operated
on the same lines with horse cars, and at present the former run
about 25-15 per cent, of the entire mileage. The popularity of
the system is shown by the fact that the electric cars earned
£5,655 more than their proportion of the mileage. If the system
was extended over the whole line the increased net earnings on
these figures would have been over 52 per cent, of the present
earnings. The increase of traffic due to the substitution of electric
traction for horse traction on this tramway is 44-] per cent.
In April and Hay the cost of opemting
(motive power) per horse car was S.ISd. per car mile.
In June ditto ditto 5'14d. „
In April the cost of operating (motive power)
per electric car was 3-79d. „
In June ditto ditto ^-sid. ,,
laJnly ditto ditto 3'47d. „
Tahing the months of April, May, June, and July, the electric
cars increased their earnings per mile run from 16-S6d. in April to
IS-OId. in July. For the same months the horse cars increased
their earnings per mile run from 15'7-')d. in April to IS lid. in July.
It cost in April, per mile run, horse cars 12'6iid,
,, ,, „ electric cars 10-77d,
„ July ,, horse cors 1206d.
,, „ „ electric cars 10'14d.
On examining the returns of this tramway it appears that the
net earnings per cor mile of the electric system over the horse
system is 4-98a. There are two reasons for this. First, economy of
working, and second, increase of trallic due to what may be called
" public satisfaction." If this amount is divided into two parts,
one part representing the former and the balance the latter, we
find that the operating expenses of the horse line exceed those of
the electric by 1 'B2d. per car mile ; subtracting the difference of
aamings from the difference of expenses the result is 3'06d. per car
mile, which amount represents the net profit of electric linos over
horse lines due to " public satisfaction.
In another example it is shown that a certain tramway six
miles long worked by horses up to September 3(lth, 1889, making
an annual mileage of 87,708 car miles, earned, with five cars,
£1,500 net The following year on the same tramway worked by
electric traction with the same number of care, 117,460 miles were
run, and the earning capacity of the road was increased 37i per
cent, over that of horse traction, while the operating expenses per
oar mile were reduced from 8'4d. to 6'9d. ; in other words, the net
earning capacity of the road was increased £1,740 per annum at
an increase of cost of £3.50,
In another case eight horse cars worked a road at 63 per cent, of
the gross receipts. On eight electric cars replacing the horse cars
the working expenses were reduced to 5.^ per cent. The
Minneapolis street railway, having 120 miles entirely equipped
and worked by the overhead system, haajust issued ita first re-
port. It shows gross earnings for July £22,133, operative
expenses £10,819, or 49 per cent, of the gross earnings. The
Louisville Railway Company, in their report for the year ending
1890, put the coat of working by horses at 6836 per cent, of ijie
gross earnings, and the cost of electric traction at 51 56 per cenL
The Denver Electric Tramway Company state the cost of
operating for seven months for the year ending IS90 at 55 percent.
of the gross receipte. These tramways are some of the most
important in North America. In an oflicial census published in
April by the United States Government stAtistics of the working
of 30 horse, 10 electric, and 10 cable tramways were given. The
results were as follows : Horse per car mile 8d.. cable per car mite
7d., electric per car mile 6'30. It should be noticed that operating
expenses include general expenses, track and ear expenses, and
motive power, including drivers and conductors.
The Co:<DDrT Systkh.
Where tbe overhead system is objected to, tramway companies
must tarn their attention to the conduit syst«m, of which there
ara two types— viz., the closed condait and the open conduit. Of
the former wa know little, and it has never been commercially
applied. The Lineff system is a closed-conduit type, of which a
few yards of experimental track has been lud down in the
Bammersmith depOt of the West Metropolitan Tramways, In
thla aj/Blem an exposed rail ia bolt«d U> a toa-inin, wiiich is buried
taken from a
in the track in aaphalte ; nndemeath the flanges ef the r^ and
t«e-iron is left a small chamber containing a copper conductor laid
on glaied tiles, and on the top of this a strip of galvanised iron ;
the surface rait is in electric and magnetic contact with an electrO'
magnet carried under the car. The electromagnet, while passing
over the short lengths of insulated surface rou, attracts upwaiQ
the loose strip of galvanised iron, and thus a contact is toade with
the copper conductor, forming an electrical connection between
tbe copper and a few lengths of the insulated rail under the oar ;
the current then passes through tbe body of the electromagnet
and thence to the motor. This is really an old abandoned systsnt
under a new name. Since this was written the author is informed
that three miles of this system is to be immediately laid down on
the West Metropolitan Tramways.
The Wynne and the Gordon systems would appear at the
present time to be still in the experimental st^e.
Looking at the closed. conduit system from a commercial as well
as from a technical point of view, it is as at present before as open
to three grave objections : flrstly, the necessity of putting short
lengths of surface rail temporarily into circuit by means of some
electromagnet device appears too complicated to be reliable in
working ; secondly, the practical impossibility of making such a
system thoroughly insulated in a street subject to heavy traffic ;
and thirdly, supposing these two difficulties to be overcome, the
impossibility of ensuring a proper contact when the rood is
covered with water, dirt, or snow, and the impracticability of
laying short lengths of rails with sufBcient rigidity in a street
wnere there is heavy traffic.
Until further practical demonstrations of its working are forth-
coming, it is useless discussing it any further in this paper.
In the open-conduit system the electrical power '- ------ '
conductor placed in a conduit built either under oi
centre of the track. Apart from any difference of capital cost it)
is superior to the cable, especially in working, as the care can
travel either way by reversing, ana at a variable speed, at the wiU
of the driver, which is impossible in the cable ayst«m.
The only example of the open. conduit system in Endond is
the BUckpoot tramway, built by Mr. Holroyd Smith. This line
has i>een worked commercially since 1SS5 with considecable
success. Last year Sir George Bruce and the author went carefully
into the working expenses of this tramway on figures supplied to
them by Mr. Woodley Smith, the accountant and auditor tor this
tramway and the London tramways. This tine was found to be
working at an average percentage of 35 per cent, of the gross
reoeipts, and was an improving property, as the following divi-
dends will show : In 1888 it paid 4 per cent. ; in 1880, 7 percent. ;
in 1890, 7i per cent. As a first attempt, all credit is due to Mr.
Holroyd Smith for the way in which this installation was put
down, but there are many features in it which do not warrant
it being called the conduit system of the futnre.
Built along tbe public promenade, it has but few of the difficulties
lo coutend with In obtaining perfect insulation which would be
met were it laid in a public street, subject to the dirt and mud
inseparable from ordinary street traffic. The continual action of
the spray in winter from the sea produces leakage, showing that
the system is doiicient in perfect electrical construction. The
conductors are laid on what Mr. Holroyd Smith calls porcelain
insulators fixed in creosoted wood ; when all this is wet imperfect
insnlation must ensue, and much more so when covered with wet
mud. This being so under the very favourable conditions at
Blackpool, it ia probable that the leakage would be so great, were
such a line laid in an ordinary street, as to practically prevent
working. Tbe conduit construction on this line is designed too
weak to support the ordinary vehicular traffic of public streets.
Owing to the mo&y faults both in mechanical and electrical
application of electricity to the conduit system at Blackpool, Uie
Walter- Man ville system has been produced. It is somewhat mis-
leading that this arrangement of enclosing conductors and contact
wires in conduits should be termed a- system, inasmuch as it
involves no new method of distribution, but merely consists of a
number of well worked out mechanical details to render the ap-
plication of the conduit, as exemplified at Blackpool, praotioabla
under the ordinary requirements of tramway service.
In the Waller- Man vilie type, the experience of a practical
tramway engineer has combined with the experience of a practical
electrician to produce a form of conduit traction superior to any
other. Tbe insulation is practically perfect. Tbe conductor being
a flexible cable it requires fewer supports than in the case of a '
rigid conductor, and these supports are situated in chambers
covered with hatches similar to though smaller than those in use
on cable tramways. The conductor, being flexible, con be taken
out or replaced through the slot without interfering witii the
conduit, which is impossible in the Blackpool system. With a
rigid conductor, as at Blackpool, frequent supports are necessary,
so ttiat it is impossible to provide means of access, and by reason
of the infrequency of the iiupports to the Waller- Man ville system,
large insulators can be used, owing to the avaiiabie space in the
hatchways, whereaa. in the rigid conductors the supports are
necessary in the conduit, and liable to become covered with mud,
and, OS before pointed out, they cannot be got at for the purpose
of cleaning or renewal. Every precaution is taken against the
introduction of dirt. The whole bos been designed so as to lie
constructed at a cost that will compare favourably with any
c:>nduit system.
Tbe CoifUERCUi. QoBsno?:.
Being entirely governed by capital cost, working exponditura,
and depreciation, a hypothetical case of three miles of tramway is
taken, and as it is very difficult to apply the cable system to a
single line with passing places, a doable track example is taken.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11, 1892.
SSI
and ooe gradioob of 1 in 20, 880 yardi lon|; in the coatre of the
Qttom, is Msnmed. It u propoBsd to fumuh the s&me with an
aqniptnaat sufficient for a 10 minutes' Mrrice b^ bor«e, cabla, or
•Mcbriciti;, inelndlng the overhead and conduit Hvit«ii]S. The
CBfdtal oort and average working expenditure of each Bystem haa
bam oarefnllv campilsd from such detailed iofonnation as has
been obWnable, and ia verj&ed by the author's own peraonal
knowledge and experience.
In the eatlmatoa of capital coat any allowance for depSt buildings
and land has been excluded, aa, although the figures would show
•omewhat in favour of mechanionl BystemB, thay might be taken
for this pnrpoeeaB costing about the same in eocQ case : and as the
vkloe 01 land varies in aiflereiit localities and the cost of a dep6t
is a very variable iUin in sccordance with the class of wort which
may be put into it, it ia better on the whole to exclude this item.
The capital cost expended on the construction and ei^uipment of
a horse line may reasonably t>e taken at £25,800, of which £21,000
repreaenta the coat of the Cramwayatid the balance the equipment.
la dealing with the mechanical eyslema it is assumed that the
coat of Uie construction of a horse line should be added to the cost
of oonvertlng the line and equipping it on the resjiective syateme
of meehanlcal traction, aud it has not been thought fair to charge
theaa eyetems with any portiou of the cost of Ihe horse equipment,
becaase the equipment should represent its full original value if a
proper ■inkinK fund haa been provided, and on this basis the
capital coat of horse, cable, overhead, and conduit lines is esti-
mated as follows :
Capital cost of horse lino £25, 80U exclusive of deput.
„ overhead line ... 32,000
II „ conduit line 41,500 ,, „
., ,, cable line 48,000 ,, „
In regaid to the working cost of these Hystema the 6gnre pnt
down (which in each case includes a reasonable Allowance for
maintenance and repalra) has been arrived at, as regards the horse
line, from the Urge amount of inforniation which is available on
the subject. As regards cable tractiou, the last balance-sheet
of the Birmingham Central Tramways Company's cable system
has been taken, and the figures which they give have been adapted
to the example given. It is necessary to point out that the
efficiency of a cable tramway depends in aa exceptional d^ree on
the car mileage, which in Birmingham is very large. The figure
arrived at in this case has been checked by reference to American
statistics, and by other means, and it may be considered as a
fairly accurate estimate. At any rate, it would not be safe to
assume that a cable line of this size, and with the specified service,
could be worked at a cheaper rat« than that given later on. In
the two electrical ayatems the actual details of the cost which
would be involved has been very closely gone into. The estimatos
given are very snScient, and there can be no reasonable
doubt whatever that such a line could be worked at the price
stated. There ia no appreciable difference in the cost of working
an overhead and a conduit system. It ahould also be stated that
these estimates, besides including maintenance and repairs, aa
above staled, also include the cost of the car drivers, which is a
very considerable amount, and is not infrequently omitted in
eatimatea of cost of traction. The following are the figures, the
rate per car mile being baswl on car mileage of 197,000 peri
Perei
Per
Coat of working horse tramway £5,700 equala 71^1.
cable „ 5,760 „ 7-Od.
overhead,, 3,!2«> „ 3-»0d.
„ ,, conduit „ 3,200 „ 3-90d.
In order to compare the relative conditions of workins with
horse or with one of the mechanical syatems referred to in the
preceding eetimatee, it is assumed that in order to raise Che extra
capital required for each of the mechanical systems over and above
the capital necessitated for a horse line that debentures must be
iaaued at 5 per cent., so that the original capital for all the
systems will be Che same as for a horse line, and this capital has
been taken at £35.000, being an extra Eum of £9,200 to cover cost
of depfita and working capital beyond the figure of £25,800 in-
cluded in the preceding estimate. The amount of debentures to tie
iaaned would, therefore, be as follows :
Overhead line £6,200, equal at 5 per cent, to £310 per annum.
Condait line £16,700, equal at 5 per cent, to £785 per annum.
Cable lice £22,200, equal at 5 per cent, to £1,110 per annum.
The debenture intwest must, therefore, be added b> the working
coat of each of the mechanical systema in order to compare them
directly with a horse line. We therefore have the following figures
of working coat :
Ordinary Debenture
working cost. interest-
Overhead line £3,200 plus £310 equals £3,510
Conduit line 3,200 „ 785 „ 3,985
HoraeUne 6.760 _ — — 5.750
Cableline 5,760 „ 1,110 „ 6,860
These preceding figures show that for a line of Chis description
a oable tramway is more expensive to work than a horse line
after making provision for the dabentnre capital involved by Che
ooet of reconstruction. The following figures show the amount
saved per annnm by the overhead and conduit aystems aa com-
pared with a horse tnunway :
Overhead £6,760 minDS £3,610 equab £2,240
Conduit S,T60 „ 3,9S5 „ 1,765
and these amounts show ao incrB—od dividend available on the
ordinary ahare capital, £36,000, apwarda of 6 per cent per annum
in the case of the overhead line, and upwards of 6 per cent, per
annnm with a conduit line.
LEGAL INTELLIGENCE.
THE UNE FOX CASE.
The important action of Lane Fox r. Kensington and Knights-
bridge Electric Lightins C-ompany, Limited, has been prtwreasing
before Mr. Justice Smith in the High Court of Justice. Cliancery
Division, for 10 davs. We intend to fully refer Co Cbe case upon
it« conclusion. Ifeanwhile, the following statement of the case
will be of intereat.
At the conclusion oE Tuesday's proceedings, his Lordship said he
would resume the hearing of the case on Monday next, at 10.30
a.m. Counsel tor the defendants stated that they had three or
four more witneeees to call, and it is not probable that Che caae
will be finished before Wednesday afternoon, the ISth inst. We
doubt if it will be finished then. The action is brought by Mr.
St. George Lane Fox to restrain the defendants from continuiuK
an alleged infringement of his patent, and for incidental relief
The plaintiff is the registered owner of letters patent Xo. 3,088,
of 1878, granted to him for an invention for improvements in
obtaining tight by electricity, and in distributing and regulating
the electric currents for the same, and in the means or apparatus
employed therein. The infrineement was alleged to have taken
place bv the use of secondary batteries as reservoirs of electricity
in combination with a mode or system of distribution, sub-
stantially the same as that described in the specification , at t^
defendants' premises in or near Kensington High-atreet and
Chapel-place, Brompti^n-road, Knightsbridze. The modes of dis-
tribution complained of were alleged to oe (I) the use of -tha
secondary batteries in combination with a number of lamps placed
in multiple arc between two main leads ; (2) Che use of secondary
batteries in combination with two or more systems of multiple arc
distribution, in which one or mors of the main leads are common
to two or more of the said ayatems. The defences were (1) that
the plaintiff was not the true and first inventor ; (2) that at the
date of the issuing of the writ the phuntiff was not the owner of
the letters patent ; (3) nan-admission that the plaintiff was the
registered owner ; (4) wart of utility; (5) invalidity of patent on
several Krounds, such as improper subject-matter for a patent,
want of novelty, non-fullilment of condition by filioK a proper
deacripCion of the invention within six months after the grant of
Che patent, differences between the provisional and complete speci-
fication, anticipations by prior patents and publications.
The Attorney General |Str R. Webster) Mr. Moulton, Q.C.. and
Mr, J. (.'. Graliam are for the plaintiff ; and Sir Horace Davey,Q.C.,
Mr. Finiay, Q.C., and Mr. Roger Wallace for the defendants.
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
LIVEBPOOL ELECTRIC SUPPLY COMPAKT, LIKITED.
The ninth annual ordinary meeting of this Ckxnpany was held
at Liverpool on Friday, 4th inst., Mr. A. H. Holmes, chairman,
presiding.
The report, which was taken as read, atated that the amount of
net profit available for dividend, including the balance brought
forward from Ust year, was £7,806. 14b. 9d, Out of this aum ^ey
recommended a payment of a dividend of 4^ per cent, per annum,
absorbing £6,580, adding £500 to reserve fund, and carrying
forward Che balance Co next year's account. They couaidered the
time had arrived when, in addition to writing off depreciation, a
provision should be made for the renewal of mains and plant which
might be necessary in the future, and they had therefore initiated
a renewal fund, to the credit of which they had passed a sam of
£1.500. The expenditure on capital account during the year
(including a proportionate charge for general expenses) had been
£17,1'22. The demand for electricity continued to increase, and the
number of lamps connected with the Company's supply mains on
December 31, ISSI, was equivalent to 14,966 lamps of 16 c.p.
each. During the year proi'isional orders had been granted to
the Company by Cbe Board of Trade for an addiCional area in
Liverpool, including London -road, Prince's- road, and Prince's
Park, and also for an area under the Toxtoth Park local authority,
including Sefton Park and the adjacent residential districL Both
these provisional orders were for the full statutory term of 42
years. The Directors had obtained the consent of the Watch
Committee, which had been confirmed by the City Council, to a
provisional order under which the date for compulsory purchase,
on the terms of the Electric Lighting Acts, of the Company's
undertokiuK authorised by the provisional order of 1889, was
postponed from 21 to 42 years ; the Corporation to have the option
of taking over the Company's supply businees in the city of
Liverpool as a going concern after December 31, 1807, at a price
(o be fixed by arbitntion, as in the case of property t^en under
the Lands Cunset Consolidation Acts.
The Otalt^MB, in moving the adoption of the report, announced
that the business during the past year had been very materially
increased, and that their proapecta were " — "" — '
beginning to appreciate what a benefit ti
^6^
TflE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 11, 18&^.
ing basiness in the future. With the inoreased businees they had
made inoreased profita. The dividend of 4^ per cent, had been
very fairlv earned. With reeard to the renewal fund, he thought
the shareholders would see tnat it was a very wise action on the
part of the Directors. The demands for their electricity had
inoreased very much. On the Ist of January last year the number
of lamps was 11,750 ; on the 1st of January of this vear the number
was 14,966 ; and at the present moment the number of lamps for
which they had orders to supply was 16,900, which he thought
was a very satisfactory state of aSfairs. In respect to the expen-
diture on capital account, it had been nearly all absorbed in
extending their mains over the increased area. The extension
was from Abercromby-sauare, up Mount-pleasant, alon^ Bedford-
SDreet in the direction of the junction in Prince's-road up to St.
Margaret's Church. Another extension would go up to University
College, and also up London-road. In all these areas they had
received a considerable number of promises from people who were
anxious to use their light. The Directors had come to an arrange-
ment with the Corporation by means of which the whole of their
undertaking was placed on the basis of the 1891 order so far as
the time went. They might consider that 42 years from now the
whole undertaking was their own property, and could not be
taken away from tnem except on the special terms mentioned in
the report. In the event of the Corporation desiring to take the
concern over in 1897 they would have to pay the Company such a
price as would compensate them for the loss of their undertaking,
and eive them a fair return for the money that had been expended.
He tnought it was one of those happy arrangements by wnich all
would be benefited. It would not only be a benefit to the
Company, but to the Corporation and the city at large, and
especially to the consumers, who would be able to eet the electric
light at a lower price than would have been possible hEtd the arrange-
ment not been carried out. He hoped that eventually .they might
be able to induce the Corporation to get the work of making good
the- roads disturbed in laying down the mains done by contract,
and also succeed in prevailing upon them to follow the examples
of Manchester, Birmingham, dmd other larger and smaller places
and have the electric li^ht supplied to the Town ECall. He
believed that they were benind Bootle in this matter. He thought
it was scandalous that a sreat city like that, having such lovelv
rooms at the Town Hall, should persist in retainmg the old-
fashioned gas arrangement. He was pleaded to say that the
Electric Supply Company were on most excellent terms with the
gas company.
The motion was seconded by Kr. D. de YlNurroiido.
Mr. J. Uater moved as amendment that the Company should
pay the income tax on the dividend.
Kr. C. Blreliall seconded the amendment, and hoped that there
was a prospect of a considerable reduction in the expense of the
lamps.
Toe Chalrmaii replied that there was a balance on the right
side sufficient to enable the Directors to do as had been propos<^.
The motion as amended was then agreed to.
Mr. Qoffey asked whether there was any truth in the assertion
as to the 7 per cent, restriction ?
The Chalrmaii : It is not exactly that. There is, however, a
ereat deal of truth in it. As soon as we reach 7 per cent, divi-
dend, anything beyond that will have to bo divided between the
Company and the consumers. With regard to the cost of the
lamps, I mav say that when the patent expires, as it wUl do next
year, instead of paying 4s. or 5s. per lamp, the price will be about
Is. dd. for each lamp, and perhaps less than that.
The re-election of Messrs. A. H. Holme and D. de Ybarrondo as
directors was proposed by Sir Dȴld Badcllgfo, seconded by Kr.
DMiafleld, and carried.
A sum of 400 guineas was placed at the disposal of the
Directors as remuneration for their services during the past year,
free of income tax.
Mr. W. L. Jackson was re-elected auditor.
On the motion of the Chatmuui, seconded by Sir DaTld
Badcllgfo, the meeting recorded its approval of the provisional
order now being promoted by the Board of Ttade, and also its
approval of the amendments agreed upon between the Corporation
and the Company.
A vote of tnanks to the Chairman concluded the proceedings.
COMPANIES' REPORTS.
KENSINGTON AND KNIGHTSBRIDGE ELECTRIC LIGHTING
COMPANY.
Directors : Alfred Sohier Bolton, Esq., Sir Fredk. J. Bramwell,
Bart., F.R.S., G. H. Hopkinson, Esq., Granville R. Ryder, Esq.,
R. W. Wallace, Esq.
Report by the Directors presented at the fifth ordinary general
meetmff, held at 1, Great George-street, Westminster, yesterday
(Thursday) at 5 p.m.
The Directors oes to submit to the shareholders a statement of
the accounts of the Company, together with a report of the
position of the undertaking at the end of the year 1891. The
mains, which extended for a length of 10 miles in the previous
year, have been increased during the year 1891 to 12^ miles.
Uurine the year the number of houses and shops connected
with the system has increased from 291 on the 31st December,
1890, to 436 on the 31st December, 1891. while the number of
lamps, calculated on the usual basis of 8 c.p., has increased from
i25^1^ to 38,408. The plant at the Company's stations has been
worked at a greatly increased rate of efficiency especially dnrii^
the last half-year, and further improvement in this respect is stiU
being made. Provision has been made at Kensington Court for
fixing a new boiler, and at Chapel-place three new engmes have been
added during the year to meet the rapid increase in the demand at
this station. The funds required by the Company for extension
during the past year have been raised by the issue of 4} per cent,
debentures, and it has not been found necessary to issue <^7of
the second preference shares authorised at the last meeting. The
dividend on the 6 per cent, preference shares was duly paid to
June 30, 1891, and out of the balance standing to the crodit of
the net revenue for the year 1891, £3,810. lis. 3d., the sum of
£1,462. lOs. has been appropriated for the payment of the preference
dividend to that date, leaving £2,348. Is. 3d., out of which it is
proposed to pay a dividend on the ordinary shares at the rate of
2 per cent, for the year, carrying forward £848. Is. 3d. to the next
account. In accordance with the articles of association Mr. A. S.
Bolton and Sir Frederick J. Bramwell, Bart., F.R.8., retire from
the directorship, and being eligible offer themselves for re-election.
The auditors, Messrs. Lovelock, H. W. Whiffin, and Dickinson,
offer themselves for re-election.
Dr. Balance-sheet, December 31, 1891. £ s. d.
Capital, 15,000 ordinary shares of £5 each £75,000 0 0
„ 10,000first preference shares of £5 each... 50,000 0 0
,, 82 4^ per cent, mortgage
debentures of £100 each £8,200 0 0
Less amount due 270 0 0
7,930 0 0
Sundry creditors on bills payable and open accounts 11,347 16 2
Renewal account, balance at credit thereof 1,713 5 0
Net revenue account 3,810 11 3
£149,801 12 5
Cr. £ s. d.
Plant, buildings, mains, furniture and fittings,
provisional order, and goodwill 134,890 11 10
Freehold and leasehold property £5,713 3 11
Less depreciation..... 189 16 2
5,523 7 9
Preliminary expenses and cost of debenture issue 750 3 6
ry debi
Sundry debtors
Stock m trade and stores
Consols
Cash at bankers— Messrs. C. Hopkin-
son and Sons £1,453 9 1
,, ,, London and County
Bank 3i8 19 6
Cashinhand 26 18 2
5,353 18 1
905 0 8
549 3 10
1,829 6 9
£149,801 12 5
Dr. Revenue Aooount, December 31, 1891. £ s. d.
Manufacturing electricity, coal, oil, water, waste,
wa^es, and sundries 4,067 11 11
Repairs on leasehold property 60 17 4
Repairs to apparatus on consumers' premises ...... 176 3 9
Incandescent lamps 143 7 8
Salaries 886 1 6
Miscellaneous expenses, including law charges,
auditor, and bad debts 686 19 11
Rent, rates, and taxes 758 8 3
Insurance 72 19 10
Renewal account, in respect of buildings, mains,
plant, batteries 1,850 0 0
Sinkingfund 104 2 0
Balance 4,381 17 9
Cr.
Sale of electricity £12,835 0 11
Less rebates 568 4 1
Rent of meters
Repairs to apparatus on consumers' premises
Sale and maintenance of lamps
Rent receivable
Transfer fees
Dr. Net Revenue Aocount.
Dividends at the rate of 6 per cent, per annum on
first preference shares, June 30th, 1891
Interest on debentures accrued due to date
,, temporary loans
Balance
Cr.
Balance from last account £1,804 2 2
Less first preference dividend to De-
cember, 1890 922 18 3
Balance brought from revenue aooount
Interest
£13,188 9 11
£ s. d.
12,266 16 10
439 17 2
162 13 7
131 19 10
185 0 0
2 2 6
£13,188 9 11
£ s. d.
1,301 11 8
133 8 0
38 1 0
3,810 11 3
£5,283 11 11
£ s. d.
881 3 11
4,381 17 9
20 10 3
£5,283 11 11
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH U. 1892.
263
Dr. RENEWAL AOCOUHT. £ a. d.
Maintenance of plant, buildinga. maini, metera,
Instruments, etc. 1.535 9 1
Baknceaa per balance-Hheet 1,713 6 0
£3,248 U t
Cr. £ a. d.
BaUnce from last, account . 1.398 14 1
Amount brought from revenue account 1,850 0 0
£3,248 14 I
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
Brton Are LMnp Syndloate, Limited.— Resuterad by H. W.
Christmas, 42a, Bloomsbury -square, W.C., with a capital of
£26,000 in £5 shares. Object ; to carry into effect an agreement,
made February 18, between T. P. C. Crampton and A Essinger of
the one part, and G , W.Yorston, on behalf this Company, of the other
part, and generally to carry on business as etectricians and elec-
trical engineers in all its branches. The first subscribers are :
A. Bseinger, 19, Clifton-hill, St. John's Wood !
T. Stureeon, Alexander-crescent, nkley, Yorkshire 1
J. A. White, 38. Holbom.viaduct, B C. 1
F. E. Pearl, 27. Ivanhoe-road, Denmark-park I
M.J. Alexander, 68, Carlton-bill. N.W I
W. W. Westcott, 398, Camden-road, N 1
E.J. de Buriatti, 38. Eolbom -viaduct 1
There shall not be less than three nor more than six Directors.
The first are W. W. Westcott, Q. North, J. A. White, and A.
Essinger. Qualification, 20 shares. Remuneration, £2, 2s. for
each Board attendance, with a further sum of £50 for each 10 per
cent, paid as dividend.
H*b>rt Tramway Company, Limited.— Registered by Link.
later, Eockwood, Addison, and Brown, 2, BontTcourt, Walbrook,
E C. with a capital of £10G,000 in £1 shares. Object : to apply
for and carry into effect any Act of Parliament (iraperial or
colonial), provisional ordsr, concession, or contract, for the estab-
lishmenC, construction, maintenance, or working of tramways in
Hobart and in any part of Tasmania or elsewhere, and, with a
view thereto, to cany into effect an agreement, made December
18, 1891, between Messrs. 3ymes and Grant, as agonU of the
Hobart Tramway Company, Limited (of Hobart), of the one part,
and F. J. Warner, on behalf of this Company, of the other part ;
to carry on the business of an electric light and power company, as
abipowners, and to establish and maintain canals, railways, and
tramways, as carriers of passengers and goods, to acquire patents,
patent ngbts, etc., and to develop and work the same. Thefiret
■nbecribers are : Shares.
A. P. McLellor, 24, Bedford-road, Tottenham I
R. D, Wilkinson, 2. Elmwoodroad, North.park, Croydon 1
C. A. Miller, 6, Cariingford-road, N.W 1
A. D. Foggo, 4, Oaborne-road, Thornton Heath 1
A. Stewart, Worcester House, Walbrook, E.C I
G. C. narrower. College- hill- chambers, E.C 1
W. R. Harrower, College- bill chambers, E-C 1
There shall not be more than seven Directors. The first are
Sir Edward N. C. Braddon, K.C.M.G., Charles BarcUy, Alfred
Mattel, J. W. Byme, and C. H. Grant. Qualification, 100 shares
Remuneration: Chairman, £150 per annum ; ordinary Directors,
£100 per annum each, with 5 per cent on the net profits aft«r
payment of 10 per cent, dividend, the latter divisible.
Ploaaar Talepliona Company, Limited.- Registered by Davisa
and Sons 9, Angel-courC, EC, with a capital o7 £100,000 in £10
shares. Object ; the general establishment and development of
telephonic metns of communication, and to diminish the cost
thereof, and the adoption of improvements therein ; to acquire
lands, buildinfTf, patents, business undertakings, etc, for the pur-
poses of the Company ; to carry on the general business of a
t«lepbone company ; M establish and maintain telephonic
exchanges ; to advance money, to discount and deal in bills of
exchange, promissory notes, debentures, and other negotiable
instruments ; to establish and maintain cablet, stations, electric
works, factories, and warehouses ; to undertake and carry on all
kinds of guarantee and agency business ; and as company pro-
moters, concession n aires, and financiers ; and to carry into effect
an agreement expressed to be made lietween the Electric and
General Investment Company, Limited, of the one part and this
Company of the other part. The first sutiBcribers are ;
Shares.
M. B. Praed, 189, Fleet-street 1
The Duke of Marlborough, 3, Carlton Honse-terraoe 1
J. B. BraithwaiCe, jnn., 18, Highbury New Park 1
F. U. Reynolds, Bromley, Kent 1
O. Herring, 1, Hamilton -place, W 1
C. Braithwaite, 10, Lynd hurst-road, Hampstead 1
J. C. Bull, Brougbton Lodge, Surbiton, Surrey 1
There shall not be less than two nor more than 10 IHrectors. The
first are the Duke of Marlborough, Colonel the Hon. Oliver
Montagae, C. Praed, and F. E, Savory. Qualification, £250.
Remuneration to be determined in genenu meeting. With slight
modlflcatione, the regulations ooatained in Table A apply.
"Beattioalnaat, Uinlted."—Rwiat«red by Cronch, Edwards,
and Heron, 70, Baainghall-street, E.C., with a capital of £10,000
in £10 ihana. Objeot : t« acquire the undertaking of the montblr
periodical known as Mtdricat Plant, now carried on at 52, Quemi
victoria<4treet, E.C, by Henry Sharif I^ce and Wallis Rivers
Goulty, ill accordance with an agreement expressed t« be made
between the said H. S. Price and W. R. Goulty of the one part,
and this Company of the other part ; to print and publish the
same, and generally to carry on business as printers and publishers
in all its branches. There shall not be less than three nor more
than seven Directors. The first are H. 8. Price, W, R. Goulty,
and H. C. Hall. Qualification, £250. Remuner
for each Board attendance.
W, R, Goulty,
I, £1. Is. eadi
BUSINESS NOTES.
Tha Commarelal 0*Ue Company announces the payment on
April 1 of the quarterly dividend at the rat« of 7 per cent, per
New Work*. -Messrs. Dorman and Smith have established
new head offices and works, under the title of the Ordsal Station
Electrical Works, at Salford, Manchester.
DlTldend.~Tbe Brazilian Submarine Tel^fraph Company have
declared an interim dividend of 3s. per share, or at the ral« of
S per cent, per annum, tax free, for the quarter ended December
31, 1891, payable on the 26th inst.
nty and Sonth London Railway. — ^The^Mceipts for the week
ending 6th March were £893, against £7^ for the correspond-
ing period of last year, showing an increaseof £161. As oompored
with the week ending February 28th last week's receipts show
an increase of £64.
Ttie Campbell Ona Bnslne Company, of Halifax, have just
opened a branch showroom at 103. Snow-bill, Birmingham.
The new premises are lighted by electric light, the dynamo
supplying the current being driven by means of a 4-h.p. Campbell
gas engine. The branch will be under the management of Messrs,
A. and G. Bentley.
Companlea Reglatared during relM-oary. — The following
electrical companies were roistered during the past month :
Electro- Automatic Fire Extinguishing Company, Limited,
£1 shares £12,600
Eston Arc Lamp Syndicate, Limited, £5 shares 25,000
Pioneer Telephone Company, Limited, £10 shares 100,000
Oriental Telapbane Company. —The Directors of this Company
have resolved, subject to audit of the accounts, to reoommend to
the shareholders a similar dividend to that paid last year — viz , at
the rate of 3^ per cent, on the entire paid-up capital of the
Company— which dividend being only payable to the bold an of
ordinary sharee, is equivalent to £3. 12b. 2d. per cent, on each
share of lis. paid.
Flouaar Telepbona Company. — The promoteraof this Company
were very successful in floating their venture, applications
amounting to £82,800 being received for the issae of 7,500 £10
shares ottered to the public. We give some particulars as to the
first subscribers, etc., to the " Pioneer " under " New Companies."
If it succeeds only half as well as its electric light nameaake, the
Telephone Pioneer shareholders will have no reason to complain.
Kleetrie Conatrnotlon Corporatian.— At a general meeting of
the holders of founders' shares in this Company, held last week,
the following resolutions, proposed by Mr. J. Spencer Balfour {in
the chair), and secondea by Sir Daniel Cooper, were carried
unanimously— viz. : 1. "That the capital of the Companv be
increased to £750,000, by the creation of 25,000 new shares ol £10
each, numbered 50,001 to 75,000 inclusive." 2. " That the whole
or any part of the said 25,000 new shares of the Company may be
issued with any such rights of preference over the founders'
shares, whether in respect of dividend (not exceeling a cumula-
tive preferential dividend at the rate of 7 per cent, per annum
upon the amounts credited as paid thereon) or in respect of repay-
ment of capital, or both, and with such right of voting, and
generally upon such terms and conditions in all respects as the
Company may from time to time by special resolution determine."
The Chairman explained that they did not intend to raise the
£250,000 extra capital at once, but probably only £50,000, or at
most £100,000, would be sufficient for their present purposes.
The reasons given for asking for this extra working caintal were
the usual ones — viz., that the Company would then be able to
carry out sundry lai^e orders, which were practically only wotting
for the wherewithal to do so. Subsequently, a meeting of ordinary
shareholders was held, at which resolution No. 1 was put to them
and carried unanimously.
PBOVISIONAL PATENTS, 1882.
Fbbruary 29.
Francis Elliott Stuart, Volthurst, Twickenham.
3919. Improred method of repalrlnc Inaaadaaoaat lamp*.
William Slopney Rawson and Woodfaouae and Rawtra
United, Limited, 88, Queen Vratoria-etreet, London.
3970. Slaetromacnatte maotalnaa. Benjamin Joseph Bornofd
Mills, 23, Sontbampton-buUdings, London. (Robert
Lundell, Dnited Sutei.) (Complete spealfiaaUaeL.-\
264
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH li, 1892.
3997.
4003.
4017.
4025.
3951. An Improred teleplUMiio traiuuiiittar diaphragm. Joseph
Slater Lewis, 10, The Avenae, Castle Hill, Ealing.
3971. ZmproTttmenta In power-tranaiiiittlBg devloaa, eapeolaUy
appUoabla to the eleetrioal propnlaion of ▼ehldes.
Benjamin Joseph Barnard Mills, 23, Southampton-build-
ings, London. (Edward Hibberd Johnson, United States.)
(Uomplete specification. )
3991. ImproToments in eleotrloal eall and Indicating appa-
ratoa. George Richard Nunn, 6, Bank-street, Manchester.
3996. Improvements in galvanlo electric adhesive plasters.
William Phillips Thompson. 6, Lord street, Liverpool.
(John Ward Shults, United States.) (Complete speci-
fication. )
Improirements in reflectors for electric lamps. Charles
Henry Smeeton and Herbert Page, 63, Queen Victoria-
street, London
Improvements in electromagnetic tools. William Stepney
Rawson, Wyndham Payne Gallwey, and Woodhouse and
RawBon United, Limited, 88, Queen Victoria-street,
London.
4010. Improvements in telephones. William Chancy Lock wood,
46, Lincoln's-inn-fields, London. (Complete specification.)
4015. Improvements in electrical devices for stopping and
starting horses. Henry Harris Lake, 45, Southampton -
buildings, L^ilfeon. (The Holson Electric Harness and
Supply Company, United States.) (CJomplete specification.)
Improvements in electric measuring instmments. Henry
Harris Lake, 45, Southampton -buildings, London. (Edwara
Weston, United States. ) (Complete specification. )
An improved means of effsctlng electrical commnnica-
tion through the medium of a clock or similar
apparatus. William Hunter Miller, 21, Cockspurstreet,
London.
Makch 2.
4068. Improvements in telephones. Joseph Birdus Smith Booth
and Ernest James Falconer, 70, MarKet-street, Manchester.
4097. An improvement in the construction of eleotric arc
lamps. Edwin Charles Russell, 90, Cannon-street
London.
4103. Sloctro-deposition of aluminium on metals Robert
Goodwin, 24, Exchequer-street, Dublin.
4111. An improvement in electromagnetic time and date
stamping machines. John Milton Glover, 52, Chancery-
lane, London.
4112. An improvement in electromagnetic postal, cancelling,
time, and date stamping machine. John Milton Glover,
52, Chancery-lane, London.
41 13. Improvements in electromagnetic time and date stamps.
John Milton Glover, 52, Chancery-lane, London.
4125. Improvements in electrical circuit arrangements and
apparatus for telegraph message signalling. Frederick
Thomas HoUins, 10, Forest-drive East, Leytonstone, Essex
4134. Improvements in electrical visual signalling apparatus
Cornelius Edward Kelway, 122, St Donatt*s-road, New
Cross, London.
4152. Improvements in electro-therapeutic apparatus. William
James Herdman, 45, Southampton-buildings, London
(Complete specification.)
4154. Improvements in eleotric batteries. Emile Viarengo, 4,
South-street, Finsbury, London.
4157. Improvements in shades for electric glow lamps. Henry
William Taylor, 53, Chancery-lane, London.
4158. Improvements connected with electric circuits for
varying, regulating, or controlling the pressure of
Electric currents therein. Henry Edmunds, 47, Lincoln*s-
inn-fields, London.
4161. Improvements in regulating the feed of arj lamps.
Francis Joseph Taylor, 37, Chancery-lane, London.
March 3.
4185. A new or improved automatio portable galvanic battery.
Peter Stiens, 70, Market-street, Manchester. (Complete
specification.)
4186. An improved slow-speed dynamo. Sarah Jane Rollason,
50, Goldhurst-terrace, South Hampstead, London.
4190. Improvements in electrical batteries. Fran9ois Marie
Arthur Laurent-C6ly and Etienne Finot, 2, Great George-
street, Westminster, London.
4102. Improvements in and relating to electric meters. Francis
Henry Nalder, Herbert Nalder, Charles William Scott
Crawley, and Alfred Soames, 16, Red Lion -street,
Clerkenwell.
4244. Improvements in ships' telegraph. Henry Endall, 76,
Chancery-lane, London. (Complete specification.)
4847. An electrical cut-out. Henry Sbeehy Keating, 28, South-
ampton-buildings, London.
4248. Improvements in arc electric lamps. James Brockie, 28,
Southampton-buildings, London.
Mab€H 4.
4258. Improvements in the wearing parts of dynamo-electric
machinery. Wilfred L. Spence, The Elms, Seymour-
grove, Manchester.
4277. An Electric motor. Alfred Edwin Patterson, 65, Galley-
wsll-road, Rotherhithe.
4276.
4294.
43n.
4316.
4320.
4341.
4.356.
4403.
4414.
4416.
4427.
Improvements in electrical -testiag instruments. Robert
William Paul and Fnth Knowl, 44, Hatton-garden,
London.
Cross's electrical illuminations for clocks, etc. Walter
Cross, 80, Danby -street, Bellenden-road, Peckham, London.
Improvements in dynamos. Willoughby Statham Smith
and Henry Joseph Garnett, 24, Southampton-buildings,
London.
Improvements in electric welding and in apparatus
therefor. Ernest Gustave Hoffmann, 55, Chancery -lane,
London.
Improvements in apparatus for regulating the are im
eleotric arc lamps. Alfred William Money and Herbert
Nash, 23, Southampton-buildings, London.
March 5.
Improvementa in the methods of driving Slsctric rallwaar
trains. Wilfred L. Spence, The Elms, Seymour-grove,
Manchester.
Improvements in electric _
Walter Thomas Goolden and Sydney Evershed, Woodfield
Works, Harrow-road, London.
An eleotric switch. William Kirkham Partington, 61.
Chancery-lane, London.
Improvements in and relating to dynamo-electrto
machines. Carl Coerper, 45, Southampton buildings,
London. (Complete specification )
Improvements in eleotric switches. William Henry
Weston and George Washington Weston, 45, Southampton-
buildings, London. (Complete specification. )
Improvements in switchboard systems for telephona
exchanges. John Edward Kingsbury, 24, Southampton-
buildings, London. (The Western Electric Company,
United States.)
4428.
4429.
Improvements in
ezohatkges. John
buildings, London
United States.)
Improvements in
exchanges. John
buildings, London
United States.)
switchboard systems for telephims
Edward Kingsbury, 24, Southampton-
(The Western Electric Company,
switchboard systems for telephoas
Edward Kingsbury, 24, Southampton-
(The Western Electric Company,
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1880.
3880* Distributing eleotrioity, etc. Jensen. (Edison Electrie
Light Company's DiAclaimer.) (Third edition.)
1882.
.3813. Begnlating, etc., electric currents. Beeman and others.
(Second edition.)
1890.
1246. Sleotrolytic generation of chlorine, etc. FitzGerald
and Falconer. (Second edition )
1891.
389. Eleotrioity meters. Teague. (Second edition.)
4479. Kleovrioal conductors. Morgan-Orenville.
4881. Electric tramways. Clark. (Sigmund Schuckert and Co )
5461. Electric traction. Dickinson.
5715. Insulating electrical conductors. Pitt. (Davidson.)
6029. Electro-depositing oopper, etc. Walenii and Timmis.
6030. Eleotro-depositiag oopper, etc. Walenii and Timmin.
6318. Medioo-electric batteries. Mitchell.
6397. Phonoporio telegraphy. Davies.
6492. Eleotric glow lamps. Barter.
17310. Eleotric signalling. Von Orth and Breslauer.
19370. Incandescent electric lamps. Dunand.
1892.
278. Electrical conductors. White and Allam.
645. Eleotric welding. Gendron.
798. Electrical conductors. Siemens Bro6. and Co., Limited.
(Siemens and Halnke. )
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Niim«
Brush Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, Gutta Percha k Telegraph Co.
Honse-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Electric Construction
Westminster Electric
Liverpool Electric Supply
(
l*no«
Piid.
Wednot
day
_
31
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9
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THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 18, 1892.
265
NOTES.
lalinflTton. — Developments will take place at Islington
shortly.
Northampton. — The cost of lighting the Northampton
Town Hall was £1,628.
Bangor. — ^The question of a fire alarm for Bangor has
been referred back to the (General Purposes Committee.
Longue. — The Mayor of Longu^ (Maine-et-Loir^),
France, invites propositions for the electric lighting of the
town.
Deputations. — On Monday a deputation from the
Portsmouth Town Council went round the Crystal Palace
Exhibition.
Londonderry. — The Corporation of Londonderry are
inviting applications for the position of consulting
mechanical engineer.
Transvaal. — The Transvaal (Government has given
permission to the Sheba Company to lay an electric cable
and to erect an overhead tramway.
Oil Engines. — The fourth Cantor lecture by Prof. W.
Kobinson on " The Uses of Petroleum in Engines," takes
place on Monday at the Society of Arts.
Sleotrio Central Stations. — ^The Corporations of
Manchester and of Huddersfield are advertising for tenders
for the erection of central electric station buildings.
Telephone Visitors. — The number of visitors regis
tered at the turnstile of the National Telephone Company's
telephone-room in the Crystal Palace at the end of last
week was 23,221.
Portsea. — The Portsea Guardians at their Ust meeting
were invited by the town clerk, by letter, to consider the
question of electric lighting at the union house. The
matter was referred to the Visiting Committee.
Eleotrioal Weasnrement. — On Monday evening Mr.
Malcolm Sutherland gave a lecture on " Measurement of
Electricity " to the Philosophical Society, Dumbarton. He
was awarded a hearty vote of thanks at the close.
Smoking Concert. — The Old Students' Asssociation
will hold a smoking concert on Friday, March 25th, at the
Mason's Hall Tavern, Mason's-avenue, Basinghall-street, to
commence at 7.30 p.m. A first-class programme has been
arranged.
Hnoknall Hnthwalto. — The Local Board at this
town are opposing the application of the South Normanton
Gas Company for a provisional order for gas, and several
streets are to be experimentally lighted with oil. Electric
Ught should be tried.
Edinbnrgh. — The sub-committee of the Lord Provost's
Committee of the Edinburgh Town Council in charge of
the electric light last week instructed the city law agent
to report on the powers of the Corporation to delegate
conditionally their powers with regard to electric lighting.
The Chatham Aooident, — Sir M. Hicks-Beach,
questioned by Mr. P. O'Brien in the House of Commons
on Monday as to the death at Chatham of a man named
Albert (George Jay by electric shock, stated that the
electric light company had been i*equested to make
alterations.
Johannesburg. — The Transvaal Government has
refused to consider the claim for £28,000 made by the
Johannesburg Electric Lighting Company in respect of the
lighting of Johannesburg under a Oovemment contract ;
and the company has accordingly withdrawn all rights to
such a claim.
Preston. — Tenders by builders and contractors are
invited by the National Electric Supply Company, Limited,
up to 24th inst., for works connected with central lighting
station at Preston. Specification and plans on application
to Mr. R. A. Came, 27, Mecklenburgh-square, London,
W.C, architect.
Recorders. — Dr. C. Theodore Williams, president of
the Royal Meteorological Society, in his address referred
to MM. Richard Fr^res as " the recording angels of the
nineteenth century " — if anything happened in the
meteorological world, they immediately invented an
instrument to record it.
Brighton. — In the proceedings of the Brighton Lighting
Committee, before the Town Council last week, the Council
were asked to accept Messrs. Siemens Bros, and Co.'s
tender to supply the required cable with a resistance of
1,000 megohms per statute mile for the sum of £2,230 —
part of a sum which the Council had already sanctioned to
borrow for the work. This was sanctiined.
St. Panoras. — Mr. Oswald John Simon, writing to the
Times on Friday, complains of the inconvenience of the
arrangement of the electric lamps belonging to the St.
Pancras Vestry at the junction of Tottenham Court-road
and Euston-road. When a large waggon comes along it is
impossible for other vehicles to pass. He invites the
Vestry to take steps to remove or lessen the inconvenience.
Royal Society. — Papers were read before the Royal
Society on Thursday by Dr. Hopkinson, F.R.S., and
Ernest Wilson on " Dynamo-Electric Machinery," dealing
with important problems of dynamo construction as illus-
trated in the construction of the King's College dynamos.
A paper was also read by Mr. R. T. Glazebrook, F.RS.,
and S. Skinner, *'0n the Clark Cell as a Standard of
E.M.F."
Pontypridd. — At the meeting of the Pontypridd Local
Board last Friday, a letter was read from Messrs. W. H.
Morgan and . Rhys, solicitors to the Pontypridd Electric
Light Company, stating that they were prepared to light
the centre of the town as shown in a plan which was
enclosed in their letter. The consideration of the matter
was deferred, pending the result of the negotiations for
the purchase of the gas works by the Board.
Sheffleld Telephone Ezohango. — The business of
the Sheffield Telephone and Electric Light Company is, it
is understood, about to be acquired by the National
Telephone Company. Negotiations have been in progress
for some time, and terms are now practically settled. It is
understood that the business will be taken over as from
the end of the present month. On the part of the
National Company the statement is made that there is no
disposition to raise prices.
Harrogate. — At the Harrogate Town Council on
Monday, the question of putting into force the provi-
sions of the electric lighting order was considered, and
it was resolved that a sub-committee, consisting of the
Mayor, Aldermen Fortune and Hammond, and Messrs.
Hudson, Ozley, Simpson, and Thwaites, be appointed to
make enquiry as to the best means of supplying the light
in Harrogate, and, for that purpose, to inspect the instal-
lations of the light in other places.
Longest Span in England, — The span of the tele-
phone wire over the River Dart, connecting Dartmouth
with the trunk lines between Torquay and Plymouth, is
2,400ft. The wires, of silicious bronze, 17 in number,
which cross the Dart, were erected in May, 1889, and the
span was described by us at the time. It is some guarantee
of their stability, and some credit to the Phosphor Bronze
Company, who supplied them, that they- have well stood
THE ELECTRICAL ENQINEEB, MARCH 18, 1892.
the strain of the blizzard of last year and the recent heavy
galee.
Weflton-aaper<]ttare. — At the monthly meeting of
the Weaton-BUper-Mare Town CommissionerB, a latter was
received from the Local Government Board, in reply to the
clerk's application for sanction to borrow the amount of
costs incurred by the Local Board in connection with
obtaining the Weston-super-Mare Electric Lighting Order,
1891, stating that it did not appear to the Local Govern-
ment Board that the Commissioners bad any power to
raise a loan to meet the costs of obtaining the provisional
order in question.
Elflotrlo Boats. — Three electric boats are being sent
off this week by the General Electric Traction Company
for use on the Manchester Ship Canal. The company have
four electric boats in hand, one being a launch for Lord
Dysart, the second a repeat order from another gentleman i
the others are fresh boats for the Thames service. Quite a
flotilla of these boats will be sent to Barnes for the
University Boat Race, and many others, if they were
built, could be hired out. Mr. George Newnes has rented
the " Viscountess Bury " for the boat race.
Aberdean. — At the meeting of the Aberdeen Town
Council last week, the Gas Committee reported that they
had appointed the convener (Bailie M'Kenzie), Bailie
Nicol, Messrs. Bisset and Johnston a snb-committee to
obtain and submit information in regard to the systems of
electric lighting in those towns where it had been intro-
duced, with powers to visit such of the towns as might be
deemed expedient, and take such professional advice as
they might think proper. Alter considerable discussion
the report was adopted by a large majority.
OlaAgOiv. — The Corporation of Glasgow has com-
menced operations for the establishment of the central
electric station for supply of electric light to the city.
The site of the station is at the comer of Waterloo and
Main streets, and in addition to its erection and the fitting
up of the requisite plant, there are 13 miles of mains to be
laid. It is understood that there is already a good enquiry
for the light by leading warehousemen. Notwithstanding
these operations, it has also been found that the Dawsholm
Gas Works at Maryhill will require to be enlarged.
Slttineboaxne. — The new large mill at the Daily
Chronkle paper mills, Sittingbourne, owned by Messrs.
Lloyd, has been lighted by electric light The plant
consists of two dynamos driven by a 160-h.p. engine.
The lamps vary from 16 c.p. to 50 c.p. A soft, clear light is
diffused over the whole place, affording a marked contrast
to gas. The system has given every satisfaction, so much
BO that the firm intend, at no very distant date, to develop
it. It is not improbable that the town itself may be
lighted by means of electricity, suggestions to this effect
having been made in more than one quarter.
Railway Cl«ariug Honse. — Tenders are required
for wiring and fittings for electrically lighting the two
blocks of buildings situate in Seym our- street, Euston-
square, London, known as the Railway Clearing House,
for the Committee of the Railway Clearing House.
Specifications, schedules, and plans may be obtained on
application to the secretary, on payment of one guinea.
Tenders, marked on the outside of the envelope
"Tenders for Electric Lighting," are to be delivered
at the office of Mr. H. Smart, secretary to the committee,
the Railway Clearing House, Seymour-street, Euaton-
•quare, before 11 a,m. on 30cb inst,
Cork Tramways. — The report of the city engineer,
Mr. McAfulien, on the proposed tramways was submitted
in detail at the last meeting of the Cork Standing Com-
mittee. The length is 7 furlongs 51 chains ; the line will
be of 3ft. gauge, using etcel rails of girder section 601b.
to the yard in 30ft. lengths. The rolling-stock will conaist
of one-horse cars cai»able of carrying 34 passengarB. The
notice accompanying the plans stated that it is intended to
seek for power to authorise the company to use horse,
electrical, steam, or other mechanical power. The city
engineer recommends that if electrical traction be used, it
shall not be with overhead wires. The plans were approved.
Nuneaton. — At the meeting of the Nuneaton Local
Board on Wednesday, the chairman drew attention to the
fact that the Board's jjower to compulsorily purchase the
gas undertaking from the private company in whom it vu
now vested would shortly expire. Several members con-
sidered the works ought to belong to the town, but tbero
was a general complaint as to the bad quality of the gaa
that had for some time past been supplied. Mr.
Butlin said that tbe matter was one which required serioua
consideration ; taking into account the high price charged
for gas, it was an open question whether the electric light
could not be supplied more economically. The matter waa
adjourned for a month.
Electric Supply. — A curious circumstance is to be
noticed in the returns of consumption of tbe Kensington
Court station. The income per lamp has gone down from
10s. per lamp in 1890 to 9s. per lamp last year, a result
that can ordy be explained by tbe theory that tbe public
are becoming more habituated to the use of the electric tight
and take more care in turning it off when not wanted. At
tbe same time, however, the total income has gone up
with but little increase of cost — nearly three times the
profit has been made with an increase of cost of only one-
quai'ter. These facts, showing reduction in the cost to tbe
consumer, and also in the relative cost of production to the
company, are favourable auguries for the future progress of
the company.
Worcester. — A meeting of the Worcester Watch Com-
mittee was held last Friday. The town clerk presented
the report of Mr. W. H. Preece, F.E.S., who had been con-
sulted by tbe committee for the consideration of tbe
tenders for supplying electric light to the city. It stated
that 15 tenders bad been sent in from first-class firms, who
had submitted very complete and practical plans. After
enumerating the different firms and their methods, on tbe
motion of Alderman Hill, seconded by Mr. Williamson, it
was resolved to adopt the report, and to recommend the
Council to accept the tender of the Brush Engineering
Company for lighting the city by electricity. The tender
was £20,030. It was stated that the annual working
expenses were estimated at £3,150.
Electric CookluB. — Cooking by electricity is becom-
ing, as wo prophesied, quite the fashion. We notice that
the proprietor of the Eldon Dining Hall and the Pine
AppieGriU at Newcastle-on-Tynebas bad trials of this novelty
in cooking. At the former place on Friday some cutleta,
and at the latter on Saturday a thick chop, were cooked by
this new process — the cutlets in seven minutes and tbe chop
in 14 — to the entire satisfaction of the munugeresses and
chefs. We believe electric cookers are being fitted in
several of the West-end Hats in London. They deserve
to be widely adopted. Mr. Dowsing's demoustratioiu
every day at the Crystal Palace will greatly foster thii
cleanly and easy method of cooking. This will make more
fiUing-up for station engineers' " load diagram."
Kleotrlcal EKhibitioa for Hanohester. — A corre-
spondent of the Manchfiitr Guardian has a suggestion
which, when the time arrives, should be given attention.
He does not lik^'he says, this electrical exhibition businesa
, being confined to London. There ought at once to be aq
TflE fiLfiCf mCAL fiNGIl^EllR, MARCH[ 18, 189^.
m
electrical exhibition in Manchester, with the power
generated by water power and transmitted to the exhibi-
tion. He does not say where from, but a few miles more
or less now does not make much difference. " We really
want," he says, " more development of electricity in Lan-
cashire," and we think he is right. There is an enormous
field for its utility in the cotton district — for light, for
heating, and for traction and power transmission. Perhaps
the exhibitors will combine and transfer their exhibits to
Manchester at the end of this Exhibition.
Arc Lamps for Stations. — The new buildings in
course of erection at the Glanmire terminus of the Irish
Great Southern and Western Railway will not be provided
with electric light. The flickering or intermittent
character of the light renders it objectionable, think the
directors, for station illumination, and it has been discarded
in favour of gas. It is not proposed to interfere with the
present system of lighting the outside works of the
station. The electric light will be continued there as
heretofore, we are told, as nothing can equal its brilliancy
and efiicacy for conducting the extensive and dangerous
work of a railway terminus. If it is simply a question of
flickering that prevents the use of electric light for the
station, the directors might do well to investigate the
merits of the Brockie-Pell arc lamp, which has shown its
capabilities for absolute steadiness in many important
installations.
Crystal Palaoe Jury. — The following gentlemen
have kindly consented to serve on the jury for the Crystal
Palace Electrical Exhibition : Prof. W. Grylls Adams,
D.Sc, F.RS., Prof. W. E. Ayrton, F.R.S., Mr. Shelford
Bidwell, M.A., F.R.S., Mr. Conrad Cooke, M.I.E.E., Prof.
W. Crookes, F.R.S., Mr. W. B. Esson, M.I.E.E., Major-
General Festing, R.E., F.R.S., Prof. George Forbes, M.A.,
F.RS., Captain Sir Douglas Galton, K.C.B., D.C.L., F.R.S.,
Dr. J. H. Gladstone, F.R.S., Mr. J. H. Greathead, M.I.C.E.,
Mr. Charles Hall, M.I.E.E., Prof. D. E. Hughes, F.R.S.,
Sir Henry Mance, C.I.E., Mr. W. H. Massey, M.I.C.E.,
Mr. W. H. Preece, F.R.S., Mr. A. Reckenzaun, M.I.E.K,
Prof. Henry Robinson, M.I.C.E., Capcain Sankey, R.E.,
M.I.E.E., Mr. C. E. P. Spagnoletti, M.I.C.E., Mr. James
Swinburne, M.I.E.E., Prof. Silvanus Thompson, D.Sc,
F.R.S., Mr. J. Tomlinson, M.I.C.E., Prof. W. C. Unwin,
BSc, M.LC.E., Major-General Webber, C.B., R.E., Mr.
J. W. Wilson, M.I.C.E.
Eleotrio Tanning. — The other day we received a
pamphlet of the Worms et Bal6 process of electnc tanning.
We have now received the pamphlet of the rival system —
Groth's tanning system — from the Chevalier Lorentz Albert
Groth, 3, Tokenhouse-yard. In this system, which has
been worked out at the Grange Works, Bermondsey, the
hides are carried in a revolving tub or on a frame moving
to and fro in a tanning liquor in which electric
conductors are inserted. The rate of tannage under
combined motion and electricity was four times faster than
with motion alone and sixteen times faster than when
neither are used. The pamphlet contains a large amount
of information, with description of process and diagram-
matic curves, embodying the results of the experiments,
and is evidently likely to be of considerable interest, not
only to leather dealers and tanners, but to all who pay
attention to the practical applications of electricity. We
understand the electric-tanned leather is now put on the
market
Basingstoke. — At the monthly meeting of the Basing-
stoke Town Council, Mr. Smith moved: *'Thatinthe opinion
of this Authority, the public lighting of the town is inade-
quate, the charges for such lighting excessive, and that the
Lighting Oommittee should take immediate steps to ascer-
tain the cost of lighting it with the electric light ; and that
the sum of £25 be granted to them to meet the expenses
of such enquiries as they may consider necessary to make."
He went at length into the advantages and saving of money
that would accrue if the electric light was adopted, and
argued that they ought to have a better system of lighting
the town than they had at present. Nearly every member
of the Board spoke in favour of the resolution, with the
exception of the clause relating to the expenditure of £25,
and Mr. Simmons suggested that that clause should be
expunged, and that the committee should report to the
Board the result of their enquiries. This suggestion was
ultimately accepted, and the motion as amended was
approved.
Madras Tramways. — A company is being formed,
with a capital of £100,000, to take over the concession
granted by the Madras municipality to Messrs. Wm.
Hutchinson and Co., Madras and London, for right to run
electric tramways. The total length of line is Vb\ miles,
of which six miles must be completed with two years. It '
is hoped to get part of the line running within 12 months.
It is expected that the line, plant, and buildings will be
provided for a sum not exceeding £5,000 per mile. All
material possible will be made locally. The company has
applied for powers also to supply electric light for the
streets, public buildings, and residences in Madras. There
is no gas in Madras. Lord Wenlock, Governor of Madras,
cordially approves of the project. The directors are Wm.
Digby, CLE., chairman ; M.M. Bhownuggree, CLE., A. J.
Lusty, and S. A. Chalk, managing directors. The munici-
pality reserve the right to purchase at the end of 21 years
on payment in gold of the gross capital, with 25 per cent,
added for compensation.
Bleteorologioal EzUbition. — The exhibition of the
Royal Meteorological Society includes a number of interest-
ing instruments. Besides rain-gauges and other instru-
ments for a station, thermometers are also shown for
ascertaining the temperature on the ground, under the
ground, and at a distance, as well as for recording tempera-
ture continuously. Various forms of sunshine recorders
are exhibited, as well as a number of actinometers and
solar radiation instruments for ascertaining the heating
effect of the solar rays. The exhibition includes a large
and interesting collection of hygrometers, also several
rain-gauges and other instruments. Among the curiosities
is a pfece of plate glass which was " starred " during a
thunderstorm on August 21, 1879. This was not broken,
but it has a number of wavy, hair* like lines. The exhi-
bition contains a large number of beautiful photographs of
clouds, lightning, and snow scenes, as well as of the damage
done by the destructive tornado at Lawrence, Mass, U.S.A.
The exhibition will remain open until Tuesday, the 22nd
inst.
Are Lamps and Shades. — There is a considerable
difierence in the direction of light radiation from an arc
lamp run on the direct-current and that from a lamp run
on the alternate-current system. The difference does not
seem to be appreciated by a contemporary priding itself on
its popular illustrations, where the light from the arc lamps
in Tottenham Court-roEul is seen bursting upwards very
wastefully. The occasion may serve for a remark upon
the use of shades and reflectors. In most cases an
arc lamp run on a continuous-current circuit will be
found not to require a reflector at all, as can be tested
if practical trials of the loss of light are made.
In an arc run with continuous current, the upper
carbon forms a crater which effectually cut« off or reflects
down by far the greater portion of the light, thus praoti-
cally obviating the necessity for reflectors. In area todVpi
^
TflE ULECtHtOAL ENGlNiJBft, MARCfl 18, 189^.
the alternate current^ on the other hand, both carbons
become pointed, and the light is reflected in all directions ;
the necessity for a reflector in this case therefore becomes
important.
iBfltmmoBta and Switohboards. — ^We are favoured
by Messrs. Nalder Bros, and Co., of 16, Bed Lion-street,
Clerkenwell, with their catalogue of ammeters, voltmeters,
and switchboards. This shows ammeters and voltmeters
of high finish and open scale for central station use, both
for direct and alternate currents. A cell-testing voltmeter
with spear for making contact, reading up to three volts,
can be read in any position. A portable testing set for
making pass tests of house installations is conveniently
arranged, and a larger portable testing* set with galvano-
meter and resistance coils adjusted approximately is
specially designed for electrical contractors, self-enclosed in
box. A standard voltmeter potentiometer is designed for
making accurate station tests for actual measurements or
for calibrating voltmeters. Holmes and Yaudrey's auto-
matic solenoidal cut-out is designed for use with dynamos
charging accumulators, or two dynamos in parallel, to com-
plete or break the circuits when the pressure rises or falls
to the required point Besistance frames and complete
switchboards are also shown.
Lndlow. — Last Friday a public meeting was held in
Ludlow, Alderman Bessell presiding, to receive from the
chairman and secretary of the British Electric Installation
Contractors, Worcester, particulars of the requirements for
carrying out an installation at Ludlow. Mr. Millington,
chairman of the company, said he estimated the capital
required to work the scheme at £3,500, and there would
be some 2,000 lights. He calculated that the lights, at
12s. per year, would bring in an income of £1,200. The
working expenses would be about £670, leaving a margin
of £525. The company was proposed to be started with
£1,000 debentures, 6 per cent., and ordinary shares. He
recommended a storage system. The cost of installation per
lightwould vary from 12s. to 158. per light or more, according
to fittings used. In reply to Mr. Valentine, Mr. Millington
said his company would provide £1,500, the other £2,000
to be subscribed by the town. The public lighting could
be carried out considerably cheaper than the present price
of £300. Mr. Valentine proposed a vote of thanks to Mr.
Millington, and said he hoped those gentleman present who
were interested in the scheme would send in their names
to form the company. Mr. Bessell seconded the resolution,
which was carried.
nra AlamiB.— The order from the Poplar Board of
Guardians to extend the fire akrm system throughout the
two newly-built blocks, and to rewire the present system in
the old buildings of the Poplar Workhouse, has just been
completed by Mr. H. Hugh Headworth. The work is of a
thoroughly substantial character, the wire being of the well-
known Silvertown make. No. 18 indiarubber and cotton-
covered, of which a mile and a quarter has been used. The
whole of this is run in wood casing, with the exception
where the circuits pass through walls and floors, where
the wire is protected by rubber tubing. Junction-boxes
with glass fronts are fixed at the junction of all
main branches for the purpose of any future testing
that may be required — a special and convenient
arrangement. The alarm calls are of the usual bright-
red enamelled iron, with fire alarm cast on, and glass
fronts. These are fixed, one on each of the landings
of the main staircases, access to which is open to
all — a decided improvement on the system of the old
buildings, where the alarm calls are fixed in the officers'
rooms, and are therefore not accessible to any of the
JamateB, An indicator shows from which block the alarm
has been given, the whole making a very complete fire
alarm system.
Deptfdird Station. — ^The Deptford central station
suffered an accident on Thursday, last week, which we were
just too late to mention in our last issue. About 4 o'clock
the lights began to flicker, something was noticed wrong,
and the men at the station switched over to another set-of
mains. These went, and all four went one after the other.
The natural conclusion for a while was that a railway acci-
dent down the line had torn the cables^ but a workman
travelling by the train arrived with the information that a
fierce fire was raging down the line. It appears that
Messrs. Martin and Co. use one of the railway arches
as a varnish store, and this accidentally took fire while
the man in charge was away, and completely gutted
the premises. So fierce was the fire that the
telephone wires opposite were burnt through, and the
Ferranti mains were made white hot The fire soon burnt
itself out, aHd the telephones were got to work by 10
o'clock, and the Ferranti mains an hour later. This acci-
dent, evidently due to no fault of the London Electric
Company, is the first of any kind they have experienced for
four months, either in mains or transformers. They have
been working with 10,000 volts since February last year.
The number of lamps connected is now over 40,000. The
report of the directors may be expected shortly.
Weaving by Eleotiioity. — The City Council of St
Etienne has decided upon a departure which will have an
important effect on the silk and ribbon industries both in
Europe and in America. It has been resolved to apply
electric motive power to all the handlooms in the city, and
contracts have been made, says the Manchester Examiner^
with an electric company for the necessary plant and
currents. The electric dynamos are to be driven by water
from the city reservoirs. There is practically an unlimited
supply of water in the reservoirs, with a fsdl of upwards
of 100ft. The cost of producing the electricity will
be reduced to the lowest point possible. To grasp the
importance and far-reaching results of this innovation, it is
necessary to understand that the bulk of the enormous
output of ribbons (£4,500,000 a year) is the product of
house industry. The weavers for the most part own their
own looms, and operate them by hand in their own houses.
There are 18,000 looms which are thus distributed among
the homes of the weavers, while the number of looms driven
by steam in the few ribbon factories of the town is only
5,000. The 18,000 looms of the independent weavers are
valued in the aggregate at £900,000. What the city of
St Etienne proposes to do is to convert each one of the
18,000 handlooms into a power loom, driven by electricity.
Electric light will also be furnished. The result of this
change from slow, laborious, uncertain hand power to the
swift, regular, unfailing power furnished by electric
motors will be an increase in the productive capacities
of the looms and a considerable reduction in the
general expenses of fabrication. According to the report
of the American Consul, the weavers of St Etienne have
always been the most artistic ribbon-makers in the world,
but they have enjoyed few mechanical advantages. Now
the old order of things is to be changed, and the products
of the St Etienne ribbon looms, which have been more
costly than similar products in some other countries,
notably in Switzerland, will be turned out at the lowest
possible prices. The workpeople employed in the ribbon
trade number 70,000.
Eleotrio SiMurk Photograiihy, — ^The Saturday Art
and Science lecture at the South Kensington Museum was
delivered last week by Mr. C. Y. Boys, F.R.S., on
"Electric Spark Photography as Applied to Flying
ffiEjLDOTRlCAL fi^GINEER, MARCH 18, 1892.
269
Bullets and other Bapidly-Moving Bodies." The spark is
generated by the discharge of a Leydeu jar, there being in
the conductor from it two breaks, which together the
electric fluid has not pressure sufficient to jump. But
when the buUet or flying object makes contact with one
the spark is instantly emitted from the other. As, then,
the duration of this spark may be even much less than the
one-millionth of a second, it is far and away in excess of
the speed of the bullet, which consequently appears to be
stationary, and a very precise view is accomplished
by the camera. This view records the form of the
bullet, its direction and inclination, the balling up of the
air in front of it, the long drawn-out vacuum in the air
behind it, and the various wave vortices and contortions of
the surrounding atmosphere through which it is passing.
Photographs of actual experiments were then enlarged into
gigantic pictures on the screen, and made perfectly clear
in all their singular details to the audience. Some of the
most remarkable were those which showed the passage of a
bullet through a sheet of plate glass. In one the head of
the bullet was seen protruding, carrying what seemed to
be a dark cloud of lead vapour, caused by fusion in
the impact, and another showed the storm of dust from
the smashed up glass; whilst others gave views of the
strains set up in the glass plate around the clean perforation
the ballet had made. Glean perforations of this nature
have long been known, but the reaison is rendered addi-
tionally clear in that the speed of the bullet exceeds the
speed at which cracks in the glass can progress. The
result, consequently, is that the round portion of glass in
front of the bullet is locally pounded into powder before
the exterior portions have time to start into motion. Some
notice was also taken of the effects of the dust and vapour
envelopes of the bullet in the transmission of sound, and
also how, by a series of differently-inclined diagonal per-
forations through the bullet, and the capacity of light
being seen through them, the effects of rotation might be
obeerved, and details of the differences of spin effected
between that given by the barrel and those produced in
the rapid passage of the missile through the air.
Sleotiioity on Board Ship.— Mr. T. Grichton Fulton
lectured last Friday to members of the Rutland-place
Marine Engineers' Institute on "Electricity on Board
Ship." Prof. Jamieson, who presided, in introducing the
lecturer, said he remembered the first exposition of incan-
descent lamps in 1881 by Mr. Joseph W. Swan, the British
inventor of the incandescent lamp, and in the summer of
1881 the wiring and lighting of part of the first steamer
fitted with the electric light on the Glyde — the Gunard
steamship " Servia.'' Since then electric lighting on board
ship, as well as elsewhere, had increased rapidly, and by
nobody was it more appreciated than by the passengers,
officers, and crew of ocean steamers. The lecturer, after
explaining the nature and peculiarities of the two forces —
magnetism and electricity — proceeded to deal with his
subject under two divisions: (1) how electricity was
obtained ; and (2) what was done with it afterwards.
Under the first head he showed the relation which existed
between magnetism and electricity, the production of a
magnetic field by a current, and of a current by the motion
of a magnet near a coil. The conditions necessary for the
purpose of producing a current of electricity were there-
fore a magnetic field, a closed conductor in the field, and a
mechanical means of causing the conductor to cut the lines
of magnetic force in the proper way. He then explained
the plant requisite on board ship, and mentioned the con-
ditions essential to success. In the second division
of his subject Mr. Fulton spoke of the work required
of the current, and showed how it could light lamps,
both arc and incandescent; drive electromotors for
various purposes, and charge storage cells. The
question of circuits was fully dealt with, Mr. Fulton
incidentally emphasising the necessity of having all joints
and connections well and carefully made. In speaking of
the controlling, regulating, and measuring of the current,
the lecturer explained the construction and action of
switches, fuses, and resistance coils, as well as of the usual
measuring instruments — the voltmeter and the ampere-
meter. The lecture was illustrated by numerous experi-
ments, wall diagrams, and blackboard sketches. At the
close Mr. Fulton was awarded a vote of thanks. An
'* Electrician," writing to the Glasgow Herald next day with
reference to the introductory remarks by Prof. Jamieson,
who stated that the first steamer fitted with the electric
light on the Glyde was the Gunard steamer " Servia " in
1881, says this is not correct, as the steamer **Gosmos,"
built by A. and J. Inglis in 1879, had a complete installa-
tion of electric light throughout.
Eleotrio Tramoars at Bradford. — As we mentioned
last week, experiments with electric cars are about to be
tried at Bradford, and the following particulars with refer-
ence to this line will bo of interest. Some time ago the
Tramways Gommittee of the Bradford Gorporation decided
to contribute a sum of £500 towards the cost of a trial of
an electric system of traction invented by Mr, Holroyd
Smith, of Halifax, and arrangements have been made for
putting it to the test on a section of the Manningham
tramway, extending from Forster-square to Manor-row.
The method to be employed in the traction of the car is
that of overhead wires ; but this is not to be a permanent
arrangement, as, if the motive power is found sufficient
for the purpose, it is intended to adopt an underground
system. The electric current, as it passes along the over-
head wires, is communicated to two brass bars fixed at the
top of the car. These are held up by galvanised stanchions,
which have short indiarubber springs to allow the bars to
relieve any sudden obstacle, and still maintain the neces-
sary contact with the overhead wires and retain the
current, which is transmitted by insulated wires enclosed
in a tube at each side of the car, to the motors at the
bottom of the car. The electiicity will be supplied from
the Bradford Gorporation electrical works in Ganal-
road, and the motors on the car will be of 36 h.p.
The overhead wires are three-eighths of an inch in
diameter, and are made of the finest copper. The car,
which is capable of carrying 36 passengers (18 outside and
18 inside), is the first of its kind that has been built
in England, and has been constructed by the
Lancaster Garriage Gompany from a design of Mr.
Holroyd Smith. The weight of the body of the car is
2| tons, but with the electrical mechanism beneath it the
total weight is 6^ tons. The car has only four wheels, but
to obviate stress in turning a sharp curve, the wheels of
the car are fitted with flexible axle-boxes, which are
capable of giving a lateral movement, and thus reducing
the grinding movement from the wheel flanges to the rails.
Special switches for the engineer and conductor are fixed to
the car. One of these consists of a wheel similar to the one
which controls the steering gear of a steamer, and by its
use the engineer can regulate the current, which can be
transmitted to each of the motors underneath the floor of
the car. The conductor has thus full control over the
current in each motor, and is able to avoid unnecessary
waste of power. Each wheel is acted upon by the motor,
so that if one is out of order it will still be possible to run
the car. Special interest attaches to the experiment on
account of the steep gradient on the Gheapside portion of
the route, and the sharp curve from Kirkgate.
270
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCS 18, 189S.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
1.— THE TELEPHONIC EXHIBITS.
The email practical adrance that has been made on
Graham Bell's telephone, considered as a receiver, eince it
finally left his hands in 1878, ia remarkable, and testifies
eloquently to the degree of perfection to which it had at
that'penod already attained. Most inventtona develop
slowly and, as a rule, owe their ultimate efficiency to many
minds, but the telephone is an exception ; it is the Pallu
amongst important inventions, and practically sprang
perfected from the brain of its creator. Many modifica-
tions and alterations have been tried in almost every
country in the world, but it is not too much to say that
were all these swept out of existence and nothing but
Bell's 1878 receiver left, we should be, in a tele-
phonic sense, practically where we are to-day. The
superiority of the Ader, of the Siemens, of the
Ericsson, is found in actual work to be mostly imaginary,
and such difference as exists may generally and correctly
be ascribed to the better workmanship and more accurate
fitting of parts attendant on prolonged experience. Of the
transmitting portion of the apparatus, the same may almost
be said. Reis, Gray, and Edison, as Reis and the Wrays
had done with the receiver, no doubt indicated the general
direction of, and even travelled aome distance towards, the
wished-for land, but it was Hughes who was the actual
Columbus, and who with his microphone, also in 1678,
finally piloted us to lerra firma. Crossley and Hunnings
and Blake merely showed that the newly-discovered
country contained several parishes : they found nothing
beyond the borders of Hughesland.
It is this completeness of success on the part of the
original explorers which explains the unsatisfactory
cbuw;ter, as regards novelty, of the telephonic exhibits
at all the recent electrical exhibitions. Edinburgh and
Frankfort showed us nothing new, and Crvetal Palace IL
is more disappointing than either. In telephones proper
there is little that has not been described many times
before, so that such novelties as there are relate only to
signalling, switching, and construction appliances. Even
this section ia incomplete. The Post Office shows nothing,
and important firms like Bullers, Limited, are only note-
ffortfay from their absence. The exhibit of the National
Telephone Company, from which better things might
naturally have been expected, contains not a single
novelty, and is chiefly an assortment of very familiar
apparatus, comprising some spoils of the law courts in the
shape of instruments seized from luckless iofringers.
The Weatern Electric Company, as befits the
position which, under the able management of Mr. J. E.
Kingsbury, it has assumed in this country, makes one of
the best telephonic exhibits. Its transmitters and receivers,
of several types and excellent workmanship, are well
known, and call for no special notice. It is otherwise
with the switchboards, of which three different patterns
are shown. The first is the company's Standard board
for 100 subscribers, with the latest improvsmente. The
old objection of having to speak through the coils of the
ring-off drop is now avoided by utilising the plan, first
introduced by Mr. J. Poole at Manchester in 1880, and
afterwards adopted by the Post Office at Newcastle and
Bennett in Scotland, of placing the drop in derived
circuit. It is satisfactory to note that American prac-
tice is now following British lead in this important
"articular. Poole managed with a shunt of only 100 ohms
esistance, but the Weatern Electric apparently find it
advantageous to wind their coils to 1,000 onma In addition to
making the drop an iron-clad one, precisely as Faulkner did
many years ago with his " altandce " electromagnets.* The
new ring-off indicator haa but one coil, which is provided
with an iron casing In magnetic connection with the core.
The armature is an iron disc covering both core and caaing.
Fig. 1 shows the general arrangement, A being the arma-
ture to which the catch, C, is joined by an arm extending
the whole length of the coll, and S the shutter. With
the long arm a small play of the armature suffices,
iind the drop ia therefore aensltive. The spring-
jacks, of the usual Western Electric type, are
mounted on ebonite, a by no means unnecessary refine-
ment, seeing that the earlier Standard boards sometimes
suffered from defective insulation between the jacks. The
method of wiring adopted la noteworthy. The indicator
connections behind the board, though of small wire, are
sufficiently stiff to atand out fully 4in. from the shelves,
those on the same line being bound neatly together, a plan
which enables any disconnection to be detected at ■
glance and readily repaired. Fault-finding is further
facilitated by employing a differently -coloured wire for the
jack connections. Terminal acrews are abandoned In favour
of soldered joints, another concession to British ideas.
Fill. 1.
The board ia handsomely got up and admirably adapted to
exchanges, worked on the indicator ayetem, ranging up to
200 subscribers. Ita one defect is that there Is no means
of enabling the operator to distinguish between a " ring-off "
and a"ring-thruugh." The numberof movements required to
make and then take off a connection on tbla board is eight —
viz. : 1. Pluga into calling subscriber. 2. PuUe down
speaking key. 3. Plugs into called subscriber. 4. Rings.
5. Puta up speaking key. 6. Puts up shutter. 7. Pulla
out plugs. 8. Puts up ring-off shutter. Another good
switchboard shown is of the pattern known as the Scar-
borough, also for 100 lines. In general construction it
much resembles the Standard type, but differs from it
essentially in the ring-off arrangemente, although the
variation cannot be regarded as an improvement, seeing
that the coils of the rin^-off drop are looped directly into
the line when a connection is on. Separate ring-off drops
are dispensed with, that of the calling subscriber being
utilised for the purpose — the called subscriber's indicator
being cut out by a special construction of the switch plug
used for his jack. The number of movements with this
board is also eight, and they are identical with those
required for the Standard. The exhibit of switch-
boards is completed by a section of Scribner's single-
'^ouma/, Sooiety of Telegraph 'Engineein, p, 153, vol. \., 1B77.
cord multiple, the patents of which are held by the
Weatern Electric Company. The idea of thia, aa of all
other single-cord boards, is to save time in operating by
reducing the number of movements required to establish
and then take off a connection, although the success
attained is not usually very noteworthy, and la more than
neutralised by the complication involved. The first aingle-
coid board was introduced about 1S79, in New York, in
connection with the Law snitching system. On the Law
board each subscriber's line terminated in a cord and plug,
and was also furnished with a jack. It followed that a
connection could be estsblished by lifting the plug of the
calling subsciber and inserting it in de jack of the
called, or vke tersA. The simplicity thus attained
was considerable, because the Law system required
no Indicators ; when these and cut-in keys are added, as
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 18, 1892.
271
ii inevitable with any other ayatem than the Lav, sim-
plicity flteB and all practical advantage diBappean. Theee
facts are fully recogniaed by the Weatern Electric Company,
which FKommends ite ordinary double-cord board when
eaving of movements is not esteemed of the first im-
portance. The motioDB required for the single-cord — eiz
in number, omitting the engaged test, which ii rather a
prolonged than a separate action — are: 1. Lifts caller's
plug (this act makes the operator's speaking connection).
2. Plugs into called subscriber. 3. Rings. 4. Puts up
shutter. 5. Takes out plug. 6. Puts up ring-ofi* shutter.
The corresponding work with the double-cord board (also
omitting the engaged test) requires eight movements. The
Scribner board is remarkably compact, 100 jacks occupying
a space only lOJin. by 2|in., and 40 indicators 14^in. by
6Jin. As in the Scarborough, the ring-off coils have to be
talked through by subscribers, and the operators have no
means of knowing, when the drop falls, whether the con-
versation is finished or one subscriber is merely ringing the
other. These are blemishes which must disappear before
telephonic switching can be admitted to have reached it«
hiehest level. Many excellent instruments make up the
exnibit. Amongst these, a handsome table set, Fig, 2, of
new design is conspicuous. The transmitter, a modified
Hnnnings, may be turned in any direction ; the receiver is
of the company's well-known double-pole type, and the
magneto is fitted with the lateet American pattern of switch
arm. Fig. 3, the chief characteristics of which are the
length of leverage and the reciprocal action of the
springs, S H\ which alternately assist each other t«
make contact according to the position of the arm.
twisted wires. The new, or " dry core," cable is under
stood to be already in very extensive use in the United
States, where it is employed in preference to the older type
of Western Electric cable, which was insulated with dessi-
cated cotton soaked in paraflSn.
H«wra. Anders SUiot and ChetluuB'Strode,
Umlted, show a variety of telephonic instruments, some
of which are of novel and ingenious design. Microphones
are generally supposed to be efficient in proportion to the
number of pencils they contain, but we have here a single-
pencil transmitter which acquits itself very creditably.
The pencil, P (Fig. i), is mounted horizontally on the two
Fm. e.
carbon blocks, B B', which are firmly attached to the
ebonite diaphragm, D. The efficiency of the instrument is
due to a carefully adjusted weight, W, in disc form, which
is fixed to the middle of the pencil and prevents it from
jumping from its seats in the blocks. The simplicity and
cheapness of the transmitter recommend it for small private
instaltations. Machines for obtaining telephonic connection
from Call Offices by means of penny-in-the-elot arrangements
have multiplied exceedingly since Messrs. W. Emmott, J. J.
Uann, and J. Poole started the idea almost simultaneously ia
1884. Some of these are good, thoughmost are indifferent, but
few, if any, in either category, can compete in simph'city
with the little instrument exhibited by this firm, and
illustrated in Fig. 6, which shows the apparatus in two
positions. The exchange can only be called by efiecting
Not the least interesting are the samples of telephonic
cables manufactured by the Western Electric Company.
The recognition of the great importance of low inductive
capacity in telephone work has induced the preparation of
a new cable, which, with a conductor of No. IS American
nnge, is guaranteed to test only 086 microfarad per mUe.
The wires are wrapped with specially prepared paper, which
forms the only insulation, and are twist«d in pairs and
drawn into a tube of lead slightly alloyed with tin. The
tabe is hermetically sealed at the ends to prevent access of
purirtnre, uid soinetiniee contains as many as 200 pairs of
contact between the two springs, S' S^, which are normak^
apart S> is attached to a movable piece, P*, kept in the
break-circuit position by a strong spring. The coin, 0,
drops between P' and another movable piece, P*, actuated
by the push-button, B. The coin when dropped rests in the
first position and forms a In^dge between f ' and P*. The
thrust of the push-button brings S' and S* together, as shown
in the second position, and the release allows the coin to drop
into the till. Thefirm has devoted a good deal of attention and
ingenuity to supplementing domestic bells, both mechanical
and electric, by telephones, so that the servante may not
S73
THE ELECTRICAL ENOINEER, MARCH 18, 1892.
only be called but ipoken to, and thus saved a journe; of
enquiry. Fig. G ahowa the device as applied to ordinary
mechanical bflll-pollB, The rosette is remaved from the
pull and replaced by an ebonite disc, which lupporte a
magneto watch telephone in sprinf{ clipa. A similaj instru-
ment is provided in the kitchen, aud twin wires are run
through the house, with branches to each bell-puU. Tfaia
combination of the old and new certainly poMeasea the
merits of cheapnesa and simplicity and there ia no reason
why it should not work eatiafactonly The same idea is
applied to an existine initallation of electnc bella, the
telephone being earned on a clutch plate and fixed to the
reached. Human nature cannot long hold out agaisst
the effects of asphyxiation even when the procesa is
slow, and not commonly understood aa such. Or take
another point of view. As we have said, people want
plenty of light nowadays. With gas this means the pro-
duction of an enormous quantity of by-producta — not
usually known by this torm — which promptly attack, and
in a comparatively short space of time work havoc with the
decoration of a church Many thousands of pounds have
been spent on the decoration of our cathedrals and churchea
which might almost as well have been thrown into the aea,
for in close proximity to costly gilding and painting are
wall alongside the usual push-button. In this case the
electric bell wires serve likewise for the telephone.
AN EXAMPLE OF CHURCH LIGHTING.
A " dim religious light " may be poetic, it is certainly not
pleasant. Modern worshippers, whatever their denomina-
laon, want to be able to aee, and, may we add, be seen. To
ligfat a chorch or chapel brilliantly by means of gas means
also introducing into that church or chapel the most certain
cause of headache and maiaUe. It ia necessary to light the
gas some time before service, Occaaionally this is done
hours before in order to warm the church, the result being
an atmosphere which quickly induces a "used-up" sensa-
tion. The building ia a lethal chamber on a large scale,
only needing to be hermetically sealed to produce fatal
results. Clergymen who use gas in this way should not
complain if a certain drowsiness is noticeable among the
members of their congregation by the time the sermon ia
long rows of gas jets emitting that which will effectually
ruin both. By-and-by no doubt the beauties of our
ecclesiastical architecture will be illuminated by nothing
but the electric light, and people will wonder how a
bygone generation could have been such lunatics aa
to employ gas. This movement in the right direction
will, we hope, receive a stimulus from an example of
church lighting and decoration to be found at the Exhibi-
tion. Here the energetic firm of Ueaara. Benham and
Frond, of Chandos-atreet, Charing Croas, in conjunction
with HesBn. Frank Smltb and Sons, of Southampton-
street, Strand, have fitted up a sanctuary in a way
which does them credit Originally Meaara. Benham and
Froud intended to erect a apecial stand tor the purpose. It
was Buggeated to them, however, by the Crystal Palace
authoritiea that the Mediseval Court there provided them
with just what they wanted ready to hand, and would give
them a far better opportunity for carrying out their design
than could be obtained by the erection of a stand how-
soever cleverly constructed. The firm in question readily
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 18, 1892.
273
adopted the suggeetioD, and the result ia in Bvery way
satisfactory. In passing, wa may remark that the various
courts, repraaeDting different atylee of architecture, are
well worthy of a careful study on the part of visitors
to the Exhibition. The plaster reproductions have been ho
well done as to almost deceive the eye, whilst the collection
includes examples from some of the most noted buildings
in this country and abroad. But to return to the Medinval
Court, which readers will find to the right of the Edison-
Swan exhibit looking north. The sanctuary includes some
very beautiful examples of church embroidery and metal
work. The altar ii furnished with six massive brass
candlesticks and cross, with medallions of the four evange-
lists in oxidised silver. The embroidered dossal hangings
and altar cloth have bean supplied by Messrs. Frank
Smith and Sons, and are handsome specimens of this class
of ecclesiastical fittings. A brass eagle lectern of fins
workmanship stands to the left of the altar steps. Lecterns
of the same pattern have been supplied to Glasgow
Cathedral, St. Stephen's, Westminster, and other churches.
A specimen panel in patent metal mosaic, with the figure
of St. Luke in hand repoussS work, should attnct
some attention. It ia made by a new method of imitating
ordinary mosaic in metals. Those employed in this case
are copper, braas, and nickel, and the effect ia very good.
From the roof dapenda a vary fine 12-light electric corona
in brass, and also two other coronas in wrought iron, Two
specimen stendards carrying nine lights each, for use in a
cnancel, are also shown. The leads to these lights are run
on a method introduced and fitted up by MeSflrs. Smythe
and Pvne, of Albany-buildings, Victoria-atreet. The
system consists of concentric copper tubes insulated from
each other and encased in fireproof material, the whole
being sheathed in brass. This brass sheathing gives
the leads an appearance in complete harmony with
the ordinary church fittings, and they do not obtrude
themselves on the eye. The tout emenAle of this exhibit is
very fine, and we congratulate Messrs. Benham and Froud
on the happy result of their efforts, which will, we think,
cause many a dignitary of the Church to covet the electric
tight
BUFFALO MEETING OF THE NATIONAL ELECTRIC
UGHT ASSOCIATION.
The fifteenth annual meeting of the American National
Electric Light Association was held at Buffalo on February
34. The uwtracts of the papers just come to hand show
that a large proportion of practical and interesting papers
were read. Some of these dealt more particularly with
American practice, but of the others the following abstract
gives the prindpal points dealt with and the conclusions at
which their authors arrived. The firet, that on " Alternate-
Current Motors," by Mr. Wm, SUnley, jun., being
extremely important, we give in full elsewhere.
THB RELATION OF 3IZE AND EFFICIENCY IN TRANSFORHERS.
A paper which eomes very apr^ioi at the present moment
is that with the above title, by Mr. L. B. Stilwkll. The
designer of a transformer, says Mr. Stilwell, has two alter-
nate paths : he may aim at high efficiency at light loads, or
be may aim at large output with little weight, in which case
be may endanger the insulation. The best transformer is
not necessarily that which has the least loss in magnetising
Gorrent, nor that which regulates most closely, nor that
which is lightest, ner yet that which does not increase in
tonperature, but the one that best embodies all these
properties. A commercial five-light transformer cannot
be made to lose less than 20 watts, but a 10-Iight trans-
former ean be made to lose not more than 35 watts. If
tlie capftcitiei are 3(K> and 500 watts, the losses are respec-
tively 8 and 6 per cent. A 20-light inknsformer can
be made with an iron loas of 30 watta, and for 40 lights
at a loss of 45 watte — respectively a loss of 3 and 2"
per cent A 40-light transformer substituted for two
20-Ugfaten will reduce the loss from 3 to 2t per cent., and
mnv if BUbetitnted for smaller sins. Transformers for
100 li^te ean be made with a loss which does not exceed
1-7 per cenL, but beyond this size improvement is difficult.
The lose due to copper resistance Is usually about 3 pw cent.,
aot varying materially in the various sizes. Assuming the
copper loss constant, the following teble represents the
average proportionality of losses. Actual tests show
results as good as, or even better than this :
Msitj in LoM in Lob ia
8 percent. ... Speroent. ... 90 par cent.
5 2 .. ... 93
8 2 „ ... 96
2B 2 „ ... 9S-6 „
2-8 2 „ - eS7 ,.
21 2 „ ... 96-9 „
1'9 „ ... 2 „ ... 96-1 „
17 „ ... 2 96-8 „
1'6 „ ... 2 „ ... 96-5 „
It will be seen that for aizea less than SO Ughte the falling
off in efficiency is very great, while above that the nin is
less marked. The significance can be better reatisea in the
following comparisons, expressing the losses in lamps and
taking a total capacity of 1,200 lamps of 16 c.p.
IiOBi ialkinpe
Trnistormera.
Lb full
loB^
240 S-liRht capacity
... 96
120
eo 20
40 30
3C 40
... S6
... 30
.;; SI ■:;:::::
60
M
w-e
49-2
4S00
... 18
42
These figures show pkinly that for any number of lamps
up to 100 it ia better te use one transformer rather than a
number of smaller transformers ; above 100 the gun is not
BO marked.
In the discussion, Mr. Wh. Stanley, jun., remarked
that the moat efficient tranaformer would be, he believed,
the hottest — that is, buikl a coil and ret in it as much iron
as possible. Prof. Elihu Thobison thought a transformer
woatd run beat if the iron were run as hot and the copper
as cool as possible. If the core were enclosed and the
copper ventilated, we should obtain the ideal transformer.
Mr. Stanley questioned if the transformer of the future
would have inflammable material in it at all ; he was
making transformera with the copper embedded in a solid
dieleetric, the section resembling that of a well-constructed
cable.
TRANBMISSION OF ELECTRIC ENERGY.
Mr. H. Ward Leonard read a paper on the " Trans-
mission of Electric Energy by Alternating Currents, and
its Utilisation by Continuous Currenta." Ho made the claim
that economical transmission of power over long distances
necessitated the use of both alternate and continuous
currents. The plant at the receiving end should be insuUed
exactly as il to be driven by a steam engine, but should
instead be coupled to a synchronous alternate-current
motor, which should be started by a small storage battery
or other means. If one comprehensive plant were installed,
he believed an enormous development of this system would
immediately take place.
HlfiH-TENSION CURRENTS UNDERORODND.
Mr. E. A. Leslie has an extremely practical paper on
the underground condutte in New Yorx for high-tension
conductors. The " trunk " ducts are of iron pipe, mostly
3iu. diameter, running to manholes 275ft. apart. Over the
trunk ducts are two to four distributing ducta, with four- way
manholes, 50ft. apart The conduits are owned by the
Subway Company. The companies Mr. Leslie ia connected
with use cables insulated with rubber compound. A copy
of the apecification is given of these cables. The manner
of drawing in ia explained. The proper jointing is regarded
as a matter of paramount importance — unless made by '~
experienced man the joint ahowa nearly always less^iosu
iosula-
,_r- , , »?■
tion than the cable. The following rule of the Subway
Com[>any, at one time impossible of compliance, is extolled
by Mr. Leslie as the preventive of after-loss :
Section i.—Sl*ctronu)tnt Fortt.—Mi\ oondtictora drawn into
and operated in Uw conduit, and intended to convey currents of
(Ui eleotromotive force eioeediiig lOO volts, shall have at the
Mmperature oi TSdeg. F., an initial resistance of not leas than 16
mtftohms per mile per 100 volia electromotive force of carrent bi
274
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 18, 1892.
the circuit. Whenever the reeittance of a oondactor, as aforesaid,
shall prove to be less than five megohms per mile per 100 volts,
the use of that conductor shall at enoe oease, unless the actual
electromotive foroe in its circuit be so reduced as to re-establish
the foregoing ratio.
This means that for a 1,000- volt circuit an insulation resist-
ance before the current is turned on of 150 megohms per
mile is required, and for 3,000 or 4.000 volts, 450 and 600
megohms. These seem difficult conditions, but it is rare
that the tests on the New York cables do not show three
to four times this resistance, and these have remained
nearly, if not quite, as high for two or three years.
Examples were given. Tests are made every week with a
portable reflecting galvanometer. The insulation, including
arc lamps or converters, usually falls below this standard,
but unless less than one megohm per mile, the condition is
accepted. Lower than this, lamp or converter tests are
made and the defect removed. The cost of house connec-
tions is very high — appalling, to a man of overhead
experience only. The cost of connections to city lamp-
posts, including pipe, cable, and labour, is llOdols., say,
£22, per post. Mr. Leslie goes into the financial aspect of
the hire of subway ducts. The rental is l,000dols. for
distributing ducts, and 550do]8. up to 900dols. for trunk
ducts. The cost may be judged from the statement
that the total rental of ducts exceeds the total for
coal, oil, waste, and the salaries of chief engineer, engi-
neers, firemen, coal handlers, and oilmen employed in
the machinery department. He sums up the question
thus : The underground system of lighting is perfectly
possible on an extended scale ; it is less liame to interrup-
tions than the overhead system ; it is less dangerous to life ;
its cost is enormously greater ; it is very cumbersome, and
lacks flexibility; and its cost precludes its extension to
sparsely-populated districts, which must either be supplied
by overhead wires or abandoned.
TRANSMISSION OF POWER FROM NIAGARA.
Mr. Carl Hbring read a paper on the " Transmission
of Power, with Special Reference to the Frankfort Plant."
The paper first described the apparatus used on the Lauflen-
Franldort transmission, and gave a lucid explanation of the
three-phase current. Mr. Hering closed his lecture with
the following passage :
"The Oerlikon Company gives the following figures
regarding the cost of the plant : Assuming the 300 h.p. is
developed at Laufifen, and that all the energy received in
Frankfort was converted into light, the cost of the plant
per efifective horse-power measured at the terminals of the
lamp will be about £56, of which £47 is for the line alone.
These figures appear high, but it must not be forgotten
that in this particular plant there were conditions which
would not be likely to occur in practice — namely, relatively
small power on the one hand, and exceedingly great dis-
tance on the other, both of which factors naturally increase
the cost per horse-power. It may be of interest to state that
Mr. Dobrowolsky, of the Berlin firm, states that he would
be willing to bid on the contract to transmit 1,000 h.p. or
5,000 h.p. from Niagara to Chicago, a distance of about
500 miles. He proposes to use 40,000 to 50,000 volts, and
claims that an efficiency of 60 to 75 per cent, could be
obtained without difficulty.''
He also adds the following : " I received this morning a
letter from the Zurich people, the Oerlikon Company, who
you may know have put in a bid for the transmission of
power from Niagara Falls to Buffalo. They propose that
the current generated at the Falls is to be such that both
motors and lamps — arc lamps as well as incandescent
lamps — shall be used. That is, the current shall be fit for
motors, arc and incandescent lamps. They say the
Drehstrom — that is, the rotary current — is at present, and
will be for a long time to come, the only practical form of
current to run large motors of a fair efficiency. They
propose to use 50 periods in place of 40, which were used
at Lauffen, because they say that 40 is too low to run arc
lamps. Fifty is said to be the lowest at which arc lamps will
run satisfactorily. The generating station would be composed
of units of 5,000 h.p. each. The dynamos must therefore
be of 5,000 h.p. According to the wishes of the turbine
desjgnerB, the number of revolutions has been fixed at 250
per minute. The diameter of the armatures has been fixed
at 3^ metres— that is, about 10ft. The armature is to be
drum wound. I suppose that means the drum winding on
the surface of the cylinder — ^that is, not across the ends, as
we usually wind arum armatures in America, but wound
as they very often do in European multipolar machines.
The currents are to be 2,000 amperes in each of the three
circuits, and the voltage 600 to 700. It has been found
advantageous to revolve the armature instead of the
magnetic field, in order to have a minimum weight on the
vertical shafts. The weight on one of those shafts, by the
way, is something very great The shafts are 20ft. long,
and the weight of the shafts together with that of the
armature and turbine is a very great weight, and must
therefore be considered. The generators willhave 24 poles.
They will be separately excited. The efficiency will be in
the neighbourhood of 96 per cent — that is, the efficiency
of the dynamo, including exciting power. There will be
two transformers, as it was not found practical to build a
single transformer of 5,000 h.p. The transformers will be
artificially ventilated, and only the high-pressure coils will
be placed in oil. These transformers will raise the potential
to 25,000 volts. 'This,' they say, 'is no longer to be
looked upon as an experiment. The cost of the line will
be about 100,000f.— (that is, £4,000>— an almost trifling
part of the whole for the total distance. It is a simple
pair of copper wires — that is, three pair of copper wires
on poles, the cheapest kind of a line. As to the
line, we propose not to carry any more than one or
two units of 5,000 h.p. on one line of poles for a number
of reasons. A 5,000 h.p. or 10,000 h.p. can be conducted on
wooden poles at a very moderate initial cost of plant. The
lines would terminate in one or more step-down transformer
stations that would supply current of 1,800 to 2,000 volts
for municipal and street lighting in the shape of alternating
currents to be transformed down to the suitable lamp voltage,
as is the case in the present transformer systems. The
cost of the electrical part of the proposed plant, including
the generators, exciters, and transformers at both ends of
the line, would be about 180,000dol8. (£36,000) for each
unit of 5,000 h.p. with an efficiency of 84 per cent at the
low-pressure terminals of the secondary transformers. This
reduces to 36dols. (£7. 5s.) per horse power. The cost of
the line is about 4dels. (168. 8d.) per horse-power, which
is about 10 per cent of the whole.'
At the close of the lecture Mr. Hering showed a number
of magic lantern slides illustrative of the Frankf ort-Lauffen
apparatus, line, exhibition, etc.
Prof. EuHU Thomson expressed himself in favour of
the three-phase system, with underground wires in oil,
which could be run up to 100,000 volts.
Mr. L. B. Stilwell preferred a two-phase system for
combination work, where motors and lights were required.
Mr. C. S. Bradley spoke of his pioneer work in the
rotary-current system, stating his preference for three-
phase currents.
Mr. Stanley said it would be interesting to members to
know that a 15,000-volt line was working at Pittsfield using
20 h.p. The striking distance is twice as great at this than
at 10,000 volts. Within an inch or two of the ground there
is a miniature aurora borealis, and the current will go right
through a dry deal board without affecting the current in
the slightest. They had undertaken a contract to transmit
400 h.p. a distance of 28 miles. The Dobrowolsky 2-h.p.
motor, he was informed, required 4,200 watts to run at no
load, and 14,000 watts (10 times its rated capacity) at full
load. Of the current apparently applied, 14,000 watts, only
1,500 watts are actually useful. The Tesla motor uses *6
of its full load current to run empty, and '7 of this ia
usefully applied ; so that about *7 x *6 x the total energy
is required to run the motor. The synchronous motor has
•ne serious defect, that if overloaded much it is liable to
bum up.
BOILER FIRING.
" How to Fire a Boiler " was the title of a paper by Mr.
B. Hammond. Amongst other things, he said : " Experi*
ment has proved that bituminous coal requires 150 cubic
feet of air per pound of coal for good consumption. An
excess of air results in a waste of heat which is carried into
THE ELECTRICAL ENGtyEER, MARCH 18, 1892.
27S
the fluea and chimneys, and often a greater loss thaQ the
iniufficiency of supply of air to produce good combustion,
" In my experience for eteam plant boilers carrying SOlb,
to IGOIb. of steam, I find that at least 201b. of bituminous
coal should be burned per square foot of grate per hour,
and the air spaces of the grates should not be less than 60
per cent, of the grate area ; if the grate surface is bo large
that only 101b, of coal is consumed, it would be more
economical to reduce the grate surface and burn not less
than 201b. with good draught, thus securing a good com-
bustion. The same weight of coal burned on a large grate
would not be as economical, on account of the low tem-
Erature; the temperature of the furnaces should not be
» than 3,600deg., and the ratio of the draught area
through the tubes or flues should not be less than one-sixth
nor more than one-fourth of the grate surface, and the pro-
firtion of the grate surface should be at least as 35 to 1.
he steam users should see to it that all ]>arts of their
boilers and settings should be of equally as good proportions
for strength and economy as their engines ; employ good,
intelliE^ent firemen as well as engineers, and see that both
produce good indicator cards." It was insisted that intelli-
gent firemen should be engaged and well paid ; this would
result in a reduction in the pounds of coal per lamp lighted.
Judge ARMSTEON<i in the discussion suggested that a
" bureau of firing " should be organised.
OVBRHKAD CONSTRUCTION,
Mr. E. F. Peck, in a paper on overhead construction,
dealt with the practical side of this problem— the building of
wire-towers and the running of overhead circuits. Refer-
ring to the poles, he said his attention had been
recently called to the Haskins process, which seems to be
highly successful. This process consists in the placing of
timber in an air tight retort, and subjecting it to the heavy
pressure of superheated air, which permeates the whole
section, thereby accomplishing the same result as a charring
process, without altering any of the chemical properties of
the wood. Joints should be soldered on all electric light,
circuits. He bad found that wrapping a joint with tin-
foil and then covering with a good rubber tape make a good
substitute for soldering, easily applied, for temporary work.
The report of theCommitteeon Underground Conduitsand
Wires was read, describing various American and English
systems. It was agreed the experience has been too short
to give a fair comparison of cost between aerial and under-
ground conductors.
The Committee on Safe Wiring recommended that the
rules should be amended by prohibiting inside conductors
being laid in plaster or cement in a room where inflammable
gases are used ; that the lamp and socket be enclosed in a
vapour-light globe ; that interior conduits must not be
made of any substance liable to be injured by plaster or
cement.
The report of the World's Fair Committee was also read.
Papers were also read, entitled :
" Electric Lighting from a Financial Standpoint," by
Mr. Erostus Wiman.
" Transmission of Power," a mathematical paper dealing
with the transmission of power from the consumer's point
of view.
" From the Tannery to the Dynamo," by Mr. Charles A,
Ijcbieren, being the natural history of a belt.
" Construction, Safety, and Operation of Switchboards,"
by Mr. M. C. Sullivan.
"Franchises for Quasi-Public Corporations," by Mr.
Alien R. Foote.
" The Underground Construction of the Buffalo Railway
Company," by Mr. J. B. Craven.
Bl««trlo Ot^aa. — The Vicar of Meanwood Church,
Leeds, has accepted the tender of Messrs. Abbott and
Smith, of Bradford, for a new organ controlled electrically.
The keyboard will be deUchable, enabling the performer
to play from any part of the church. The organ will
contain 29 Btoi» and 1,385 pipes, and will be blown by a
bTdnulic engine.
WALSALL ELECTRIC LIGHTING.
PARTICULARS OF REQUIREMENTS AND STATEMENT
OF INFORMATION TO BE FURNISHED WITH TENDERS.
The area proposed to be supplied with the electric light
coloured pink upon the plan. The length of the respective
streets comprised in such area is as follows :
Feet.
WolverhampUin street A to B 1,800
Park-street B „C MS
Bradtord-slraettoVicftrago-placo C ,, D 1,600
VicBr^o-plaoo to GeorM-fltreet D ,, E 948
(Jeorge-street W High-street E „F 810
Digbeth and High -street C „G 1,063
Goodall-atreet H „ I 6.53
BritiKe-streeH Upper) I >. K 615
Bridge-Btreet (Lower) K „ N 427
Leicester -street K „ L 330
DarwaU.street L „ M 229
TheBridge C „N 138
TheBridge M ,. N 181
TotiJ 9,430
It is suggested, with a view to economy, that the
generating station may be placed at the gas works in
Wolverhampton-street, which are the property of the
Corporation, but the contractors are at liberty to suggest
any other site that may appear to them to be more suitable,
giving their reasons for so doing. A plant is required
sufficient for the demands of 3,000 60-watt lamps wired,
and regard should be given to the fact that power may
also be required tor small motors, and reaeoDabie provision
should be made for this and also for future extensions.
Tbe works comprised in the tender are to be divided into
four sections as follows ;
Bl'ILDlNGH.
Section I. — The buildings are not desired to be of a
highly ornamental character, but must be plain and good
in all respects. Plans and details of such buildings as may
be necessary for boilers, engines, and dynamos must be
supplied, room being left for an extension of plant in each
section.
Boilers and Engines,
Section II. — Details of these are to be given and a
guarantee as to evaporating power with the ordinary coal
of the district. The canal company's water, which miiy
be used, is not good. Full particulars of these to be
supplied, and a guarantee of horsepower per stated amount
of steam at averat;e working load. State make, speed, and
guaranteed insulation. State the amount of coal that will
be used per electrical horse-power generating at quarter,
half, and full load. Give full particulars of all instruments
to be supplied, and what switching apparatus would be
provided.
Storage.
Section III. — If storage is included give particulars as to
make, maximum discharge, and capacity, and specify
particulars, including the necessary arrangements for
switching and regulating.
Mains.
Seclion IF. — Supply full particulars of these, stating
sectional area, bow insulated and guaranteed insulation,
resistance per mile when laid. Give particulars of pro-
posed system of laying, also of joint and test boxes.
Separate prices must be given in the tender for each section.
The whole of the work to be carried out in accordance
with the provisions of the Walsall electric lighting order
of 1S90, and to tbe satisfaction of tbe Council and their
electrical engineer for the time being. A price must also
be stated in the tender for running for six months after
completion, contractors paying all expenses excepting fuel
and water.
Coat of Carbona. — Mr. James Blake, managing
director of the Fareham Electric Light Company, state*
that tbe cost of their arc lights last year, on a basis of
2,000 hours, did not amount to £2 per lamp for carbons,
and the total cost of carbons and attendance did not exceed
£2. 10s. per lamp.
^6
Tfifi ELECTftlCAL BNGINEER, MARCH 18, 1892.
tLECTRICAL ENGINEER.
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CONT'EVTrrB.
. 270
Buffalo MMting of the Na-
tional Electric Light Awo-
ciation 273
WaUall ElecCtia Lighting... 376
Oil IniuUtiDu 278
Alteraate-currsnt Motors 277 ,'.280
The Behaviour of Insulating
Materials ander the Action
of High- Potential Differ-
- 279
Corraipondence S
AseociatioD of Municipal
Engineers 2
Liverpool Lighting 2
Wollaaef lighting S
Taunton 277,2
Companies' Meeting! 2
Companies' Reports 2
Business Notes 2
Provisional Patents, 1B02 ... 2
Specifications Published 2
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OIL INSULATION.
The time of oil as an insulator is coining upon as.
So much may be judged from the signs of the times.
The use of oil, especially heavy rosin oil, on elec-
trical work has been long advocated by us, and we
have devoted many articles to the description of the
process of running cables in oil brought prominently
forward by the late Mr. David Brooks, the system
now in the hands of Messrs. Johnson and Phillips.
The demonstrations by Brooks have, no doubt, had
their effect, but, practicable as he showed the use of oil
insulation to be, the employment of it on any large
commercial scale has hung fire. It has required
the work of Ferranti and of Tesla to draw the
attention of the world to the advantages of very
high potentials, and in these cases the great advan-
tages of oil insulation become apparent. Neces-
sity is, we all know, the mother of invention ;
and when circumstances require a process to be
discovered, man seeks, and always finds. Some-
times, however, he finds it too early, and
no use can be made of his researches. This has
been the case with oil insolation, for it appears the
advantages of this method of insulating cables were
perfectly well known, and methods for its use even
patented, by one of the greatest and one of the most
modest of our present electricians. Prof. Hughes,
who already, in 1859 — over thirty years ago — as
stated in his paper given last week, had fully tested
and recognised the advantages, not only of oil, but of
rosin oil for insulating purposes. Many electrical
engineers who ha-d never before perhaps given the
matter more than a moment's thought must have
recognised, after witnessing Tesla's experiments with
hishigh-tension transformers in oil andProf. Hughes's
simple but highly interesting experiments with faulty
wires in a tube of oil, that the high insulating
power, together with the absolute certainty and
ease of repair of fault, will stand them in the
greatest stead in the coming problems of high-
tension current transmission. Mr. Ferranti has
long recognised its value, and his junction and
transformer boxes have been built, we believe,
for some years to use oil. Brooks himself laid
and worked telegraph cables in England many
years ago, and several installations have since
been fitted with oil-insulated cables — amongst others
at Keswick. The statements and esperiments of
Prof. Hughes will, of course, turn the attention of
cable manuhcturers to the more extended use of
oil, and many who have credited Brooks with
absolute priority in this question will now feel
free to use the system. It is doubtful, however,
whether this matter of priority really affects the
question very much after all, for a principle cannot
itself be patented, and therefore anyone is to this
extent at liberty to use oil — and rosin oil. The use
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER. MARCH 18, 1892.
m
of oil has, however, its limitations and its regula-
tions, and these must in practice be strictly com-
plied with. Any patentable apparatus or methods
may therefore to thia extent still hold good.
Even were this not the case, those who have
tried and worked the method must necessarily
be those who know most about it, and therefore
we can see that the eulogy of oil by Prof. Hughes
and by Mr. Tesla will redound to the advantage of
the firm who have been pioneers in this system.
The extended knowledge and recognition of the
advantages of oil as an insulator cannot but cause
its increased application in the future to high-tension
conductors generally, and may materially aid in the
solution of that most difficult problem, the thorough
control of high-tension current. For such a con-
summation all the names which are associated with
this important investigation will deserve the fallest
credit — a great part of the credit, as in so many other
electrical inventions, devolving upon the honoured
name of Prof. Hughes.
ALTERNATE-CURRENT MOTORS.
One of the most interesting and suggestive papers
we have seen recently is that by Mr. Wm. Stanley,
jun., on ** Alternate-Current Motors," read before
the Buffalo meeting of the National Electric Light
Association, which we give in full. Suggestive as it
undoubtedly is, most of the 8tat.ements made dealing
with the manufacture of a practical alternate-current
motor are of processes which ** cannot be disclosed
at present.'' The author seems to have obtained
some very definite results, his idea being to produce
a motor — a "condenser" motor — which will run
on an ordinary alternate-current circuit. The field
winding is connected in series with a condenser.
The armature, though wound specially, is substan-
tially the same as a continuous-current armature,
but is surrounded with copper bands, whose function
is to take oppositely-induced currents (the loss
being small), these currents preventing any
magnetising effect or loss by hysteresis. The
motor uses currents differing in phase, but
obtained from an ordinary alternate-current circuit.
Mr. Stanley and Mr. Eelly have discovered an
entirely novel and complete solution to the problem
of spUtting a current firom a single transformer into
two currents varying in phase to any degree desired.
The method of doing this is to be published shortly.
Tesla motors could then be run on any ordinary
alternate-current circuit. ''The Tesla motor for
the past five years," says Mr. Stanley, " has been
waiting for one thing only to develop it — a current
splitter — and we have found it." English electrical
engineers will be glad to learn this, and alternate-
current supply companies will draw breath with relief.
The system, besides the special winding of the
armature, embodies the use of condensers, and the
most serious question was to find a suitable con-
denser. Here, again, we must take Mr. Stanley
on trust. He has tried glass, which breaks
eventually even at 1,000 volts ; vulcanite is unsuit-
able £rom the metal chips or other impurities always
present. Messrs. Stanley and EeUy have succeeded
in producing what they term "films" firom '003
to '006 of an inch thick that withstand with
certainty 1,000 to 3,000 volts; condensers made with
these films do not heat, show no residual charge,
are cheap to manufacture, and, it is believed, do not
deteriorate. As before, the processes of manufacture
cannot be disclosed at present. The condenser
motors start at full torque, run to a definite speed,
and behave like continuous-current motors under
load. Self-induction is almost entirely eliminated,
and the efficiency, though low (40 per cent.) for small
motors, reaches 75 per cent, for 2 to 5 h.p. motors,
and will be still higher for larger sizes. Mr. Stanley
may well be congratulated on his investigation, fuUer
particulars of which will be awaited with great
interest.
TAUNTON.
It is well known to most of our readers that all
parUamentary action relating to electric light con-
telnplates the possibihty of the local authority doing
the work itself, or at some period after the work has
been done by others, taking it over as a going con-
cern. The esLample of Taunton is perhaps not
exactly analogous to the taking over of an installa-
tion &om the concessionaire of a provisional order
or Ucense, but it is a case where a central station
has been equipped and carried on by private enter-
prise, and where now the local authority is consider-
ing the advisability of taking it over. Our opinions
as to the local authorities doing the work themselves
are well known, and unfortunately, as some consider,
are not accepted by the mass of the industry. We
have always contended that the best way to carry out
central station work is under the local authority, and
not by private companies. The next best way is by
means of a local company, and this generally finds
favour. The local authority possesses great advan-
tages, which should lead to diminution of initial
cost and of cost of maintenance. Sanitary, water
supply, and Ugh ting matters are just those matters
with which the local authority should deal, because
each one affects the general welfare, and the aim
should be to benefit everybody, and not contri-
bute to the gain of individuals. At any rate,
the /act remains that local action in electric
lighting matters is contemplated. Taunton was,
so to speak, the first town to really patronise
electric lighting; it seems to be the first town
to consider the taking over of a going concern.
The mode of procedure will therefore be interest-
ing to all who in the future have to follow in
the same direction, hence we feel no hesitation in
giving verbatim the report of the committee to be
considered at the next Council meeting. It will be
seen that the committee has been in communication
with the Board of Trade, and has obtained from the
borough surveyor an exhaustive estimate upon which
to base conclusions.
Calontta. — Sanction has been granted to the engineer's
estimate for 11,553 rupees and 1,393 rupees for a propoaed
electric light station adjoining the Halliday-street pumping
station at Calcutta.
278
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 18, 1892.
CORRESPONDENCE,
" One man'i word li no man'i word,
Jmtlce needi thmt both be hoard."
SWITCHES AND THE CHATHAM ACCHJENT.
Sir, — I was pleased to read your article on the Chatham
accident. You are quite right ; the high-tension current
should never be led into the house, then there would be
no necessity for a switch to cut it off. A high-tension
switch cannot be made on a small scale to be safe, and if
made large enough, and it must be double-pole, the cost
would be a serious item in a small installation. As you
say, many of the switches are bad — condomnably is scarcely
the word ; cut off the " con '* and you are nearer to it. A
high-tension switch should be built on broader lines : the
contacts should be further apart, the opening of it so far
that the arc cannot follow, and the handle more like a rail-
way signalman's lever, only made of wood ; a man could
then pull off a 2,000-volt switch without fear of burning
his hands. Designers of these switches should study the
arrangement on the Thomson-Houston switchboard at the
Crystal Palace. — ^Yours, etc., W.
SIEMENS CABLE TRANSFORMERS.
Sir, — As some mention has been made recently of the
Siemens cable transformer in your journal, it may be of
interest to know that on AprU 3, 1886, 1 patented (No.
175,242^ in France, a similar transformer, consisting of a
stranded iron rope surrounded with two separate windings
of copper wire.
I snould be obliged if you can find space for the insertion
of this letter in your columns. — ^Yours, etc.,
Baden, March 7, 1892. C. E. L. Brown.
ASSOCIATION OF MUNICIPAL ENGINEERS.
A meeting of the Incorporated Association of Municipal
and County Engineers was held on Friday and Saturday
last. A paper was read by Mr. William Weaver, M.I.C.E.,
on Saturday before the members meeting in the Kensington
Town Hall dealing exhaustively with the vestry work of
Kensington, from which we extract the following para-
graphs dealing with electric lighting :
" The whole of Kensington is within the area supplied
by the Gslb Light and Coke Company, and the author gave
details as to number of lamps and cost. With regard to
the Electric Lighting Act, the author advised the Vestry to
apply for a provisional order and go in for the work them-
selves, a course since adopted by the Vestry of St. Pancras.
Looking to the enormous amount which would have to be
raised, and the probable discontent of residents in districts
outside the first areas lighted, the Vestry deemed it prefer-
able to divide the parish into six areas, which have been
allotted to five companies — viz. : London Electric Supply
Corporation, Limited ; Netting Hill Electric Lighting Uom-
Einv, Limited; Kensington and Knightsbridge Electric
ighting Company, Limited ; Chelse Electricity Supply
Company, Limited ; and the House-to-House Electric Light
Supply Company, Limited. The last-mentioned company
undertakes the lighting of two areas. The system of
supply adopted by the whole of the companies (except the
House-to-ELouse Company^ is arranged on the low-tension
system. The House-to-House Company's system is an
alternating-current, transformer high-pressure supply, with
high-pressure service lines from distributing mains, and
transformers on consumers' premises, reducing the current
to low tension. The provisional order granted to this
company contains a condition, that so soon as the amount of
supply m the district appears to warrant it, the company
may be called upon by the Board of Trade to establish
distributing stations and lay distributing mains worked at
a low pressure. About 15 miles of roads and footpaths
have been opened up for the purpose of laying electric
mains in the i>arish. In some cases the conductors. have
been laid in brick or concrete culverts ; in other places,
CkUender bitumen tubes or iron pipes have been used. In
laying the mains numerous difficulties have to be sur-
mounted— in fact, in some streets it has been a matter of
extreme difficulty to find space in which to lay the mains.
The author is strongly of opinion that all main roads, at
any rate, should have a subway for the reception of mains,
etc. If such subway was built simultaneously with the
construction or reconstruction of the sewer, the additional
cost would not be great ; there would be no extra exca-
vation, the additional cost would be for the brickwork only,
plus the necessitated extra surplus earth to remove, and if
the excavation was in sand, such surplus earth would form
a credit. Stoneware pipes for the reception of the gas and
water services and electric wires could oe laid from subway
to vaults, and if these pipes were laid in the drain trenches,
the cost of the stoneware pipes would be the only extra
cost beyond subway. The author is of opinion that if the
cost of such subway works were defrayed by a loan spread
over 50 years, the various companies could be charged a
rent which it would be economical for them to pay, and
sufficient to return a profit on the outlay. At the same
time the appearance of the roads and footpaths would be
vastly improved, and the comfort and safety of the public
enhanced."
" The question of destructor or no destructor was made
an election test, and by a considerable majority the proposal
to erect a destructor was condemned, and subsequently the
utilisation scheme adopted. The author's reports to the
Vestry were in favour of the erection of a destructor for
consuming the non-saleable part of the house refuse, and
the employment of the waste heat in working machinery :
first, for the washing of the refuse from flint and macadam
roads ; and secondly, for the generation of electricity. The
electric current generated could be used for street lighting
or for propelling the dust-carts. The latter would effect a
saving of about a moiety of the manual labour now em-
ploy^, and would of course abolish the horses now employed
chiefly in standing about with their nose-bags on to keep
them quiet."
VISITS.
The first visit of the association was on Friday evening
to the Crystal Palace Electrical Exhibition, and in order to
keep a]l the visits under one head we refer to it here.
The members began their inspection of the Exhibition
about 5.30, in two sections, under the guidance of Mr.
Crompton's engineer and Mr. H. Swan, assistant editor
of the Electrical Engineer. A visit was first paid to the
Machinery Department, where the large central station
plant of Messrs. Crompton, on the low-tension system with
accumulators, was inspected. The high-tension alternating-
current system of the Brush Electrical Company was next
visited, and the working of the large Mordey alternator
ddven by rope gearing as used at the Bath and City of
London stations, was watched with great interest. Messrs.
Siemens's large direct-current low-tension plant, as used at
the Naval Inhibition, and destined for the new station
of the St. James's Company, came in for a share of
admiration, though not running. Messrs. Davey-Paxman's
engine, driving the large Kapp dynamo constructed by
Messrs. Johnson and Phillips, was regarded as another
excellent example of central station work ; and the perma-
nent engine and dynamos of the Gulcher Company, which
light the Palace itself, was also visited. The motor-
transformers, as used by Messrs. J. E. H. GU)rdon and Co.,
for supplying current from the Sydenham station to the
exhibitors, was also inspected. A great deal of interest
was manifested in the gas engines, especially those of
Crossley, Wells, and the Stockport Company. An exhibit
which all wished to see was the high-tension experiments
of Messrs. Siemens Bros. Here illustrations were shown
of the behaviour of direct and alternating currents, and
the musical notes of the alternating current were heard in
a telephone ; but the most interest was aroused when the
50,000-volt current was turned on in an overpowering,
spluttering, and creeping shower of lightning flashes over
a 2ft. sheet of glass. The strength of the current was
illustrated by lighting a row of 500 lamps in series arranged
upon a single wire. Music from Manchester and the Lyric
Tneatre was next indulged in at the Telephone-room,
and the huge screen of Edison-Swan lamps was seen alight
The illuminated waterfall and the kiosks full of lighted
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 18, 1892.
279
lamps were moat fairylike in their effect ; the flashing of
Crompton'B projector lUuslratod the search light ; and the
Crompton crane, lifting, travelling, and slewing at the same
time, vaa witnessed with much interest. The Brush Com-
pany's sets of combined etigineB and dynamos came in for
much admiration, and their quartz-cnuhing machine was
Geeo in operation. The Siemens passenger and dinner lifts
were inspected, and then the visitors wandered through the
electrically -lighted furnished rooms in the gallery — exhi-
bited by Messrs. Wallace, Allen and Manooch, Godfrey
Giles, H. and J. Cooper, Rashleigh Fhipps and Dawson, and
Messrs. Faraday and Sons.
The members on Saturday visited, among other places of
interest, the West Brompton electric lighting station of the
Honse-to- House Electric Supply Company. Much interest
was taken in electric plant at this meeting from the pressing
importance of the subject. Mr. Hammond received the
visitors personally, and explained the system used, of slow-
moving engines driving alternators, adopted as a standard
type of central station, and employed at Dublin and Madrid.
The working of the alternating dynamos and the switching
apparatus was explained, and attention was drawn to the
fact that one dynamo had lun 66df hours continuously
without breakdown.
The last visit of the day was to the Kensington and
Knightflbridge electric lighting station, a visit which was
greatly appreciated both from the interest of the station
itself and the courtesy of the company's engineer, who
very clearly explained the working. They had, he said, a
number of Willans engines coupled direct to Crompton
dynamos ; these could be started at a few minutes' notice
tt BUpplj* the current. The low-tension current was used
on the three-wire system, with accumulators. The switching
was done upon a large regulating switchboard upon indica-
tion of pressure on the voltmeters connected to wires from
the distant points. The accumulator-room contained two
sets of large lead-plate accumulators, Crompton- Ho well
system, each set sufficient to supply 3,000 lamps for an
hour. Two further sets were placed in a sub'Station at
some distance. The cost of manufacture was about 3d. to
3Jd. per unit, which with general charges amounted to 5d.
or 51d. The price charged was 8d. per unit, and they sold
all li^ut 10 per cent of that they manufactured. Lamps
could be supplied within a radius of 1^ miles on this
system without sub-stations. There was no danger whatever
at any part of the circuit The members afterwards dined
together at the Eolborn Restaurant.
THE BEHAVIOUR OF INSULATING MATERIALS
UNDER THE ACTION OF HIGH-POTENTIAL
DIFFERENCES.*
BY H. BLECK1.Y BOUBNK AND W. POX BOURNE.
Electrical engineers have recently been devoting a great
deal of attention to the transmission of energy by small
currents at high pressures ; and it is clearly advantageous
to increase the potential difTerence until the expense of
insulating the apparatus neutralises the saving in copper.
The question of insulation is, of course, the main difficulty,
for as we increase the potential difference many substances,
which are ordinarily considered insulators, have to be
regarded as fairly good conductors. Numerous experi-
ments were shown to illustrate this point, the current
being obtained from a Hedgehog transformer, capable of
developing about 25 h.p. at 100,000 volts, which had been
lent for the occasion by Messrs. Swinburne and Co.
The question of sparking distance in air does not seem
to be of any great practical importance, but as it has
recently been referred to, the following figures, obtained
at Messrs. Swinburne's works, may be of interest :
Sparling DUtaneu Belwttn Nttdlt Pointt,
P.D. in voll«. Sparking dUtance in inchee
3,000 O'll
J*.900 0-5
24.000 - i-0
39,000 i6
50,000 2-2
* Abstract at paper read before the Old Studenti' AnocUtion
of the City and Guilds of London Inatitate, at the Central Intlila-
tioD, Soaut KeuaugtoD, on Harch 11,
P.D. in volta. Sparking distance in tnchea
62,000 2-8
74,000 3'5
92,000 4-5
97,000 Sfl
Sjiarting Dialattca BelwttH Plata ^^m, DiaMelai;
P. D. in volts. Sparkiiw distance in incbM
13,000 0-18
20,000 0'40
44,000 1-0
70.000 2-0
90.000 Sfl
105,000 4-0
The above results were obtained on a cold, dry day, but
can only be regarded as approximate, as the distance was
found to vary a good deal with atmospheric and other con-
ditions, so that concordant results could not always be
obtained on diHerent days. By striking an arc between
electrodes of tin wire, which gradually melted, a flame of
considerable length was exhibited, and it was pointed out
that the length to which an arc could be drawn depended
very largely on the current strength available.
It was next shown that for overhead work at very high
pressures even oil insulators of the best design are quite
useless. Wires from the transformer were connected to
the stalk and groove of an insulator which had been dried
and filled with clean rosin oil ; brush discharges imme-
diately occurred over the surface of the porcelain, and
when X P.D. of 60,000 volts was reached a spark jumped
from the wire to the stalk. Two wires were placed near
the ends of a piece of slate about a yard long, and sparks
passed freely from the wires to the slate, and a sort of arc
lamp was arranged with slate pencils for electrodes. A
similar conducting power was shown to be possessed by
vulcanised fibre and asbestos millboard. The discharge does
not bieak down or perforate these substances ; they behave
exactly like conductors. A curious effect was shown with
a long piece of slightly damp wood, numerous small arcs
being formed, which tinuUy ignited the wood.
The experiment with the oil insulator, and other experi-
ments shown, point to the fact that surfaces of insulating
materials, unless absolutely clean and dry, have consider-
able conducting power. A discharge may sometimes take
place on the surface of a non-conductor across a distance
much greater than the striking distance in air, and once a
discharge has started an arc is formed. A cable insulated
with a layer of rubber a foot thick might be useless for 50
or 100,000 volts, if it had even a small crack. This
creeping discharge was also shown by the now familiar
experiment in which a pair of discs are separated by a
large sheet of glass. In one of the experiments shown the
glass did not break, though the discharge passed through
it, and it was found that if there ever had been a
perforation the heat of the arc had fused the glass and
entirely sealed up the hole.
The potential difference required to break down or per-
forate insulators is quite a different matter from the dis-
charge over their surfaces. A number of samples of broken-
down insulators were exhibited. They were materials which
had been tried for use in condensers, and were in the form
of thin sheets of mica, celluloid paper impregnated with
various resins and waxes, etc., and were about six mils
thick; they had been perforated with potential differ-
ences varying from 2,000 to 6,000 volts. A piece of
cable insulated with a layer of vulcanised rubber of the best
quality, rather over ^in. thick, was shown ; it had with-
stood 50,000 volts for 25 minutes. In such cases the time
element is of great importance, and the dielectric is
usually found to become very hot before it breaks down.
This fact indicates a very important difference between
the effects of direct and alternating currents on insula-
tors. Whenever, as in the case of a concentric cable,
tbe two conductors are at all close together, we have a
condenser which is being rapidly charged and discharged.
Now in the case of most solid dielectrics there is a
good deal of soaking in, and consequent loss of energ)',
which manifests itaelf as heat. This was made very
evident in the case of a condenser which was tried at
Messrs, Swinburne's works. This condenser was made of
sheets of tinfoil insulated with paper soaked in paraffin
wax in tbe usual way ; its insulation, measured with a
steady E.M.F. of 3J0 volts, was about six mejohnu, oqd
380
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 18, 1892.
the active sorface of plates wae 5,000 square inches. When
it was coDnectfld across a 2,000-volt circuit, it was found to
absorb more than a horse-power, eo that a considerable rise
of temperature was not surprising. But it was also noticed
that its capacityrapidly diminished, and fioally disappeared,
which was, on inveetigatiou, found lo be owing to the fact
that the foil had melted and so become disconnected from
the circuit. Another condenser, made with glass plates
^in. thick, broke down with 2,000 volts after about five
minutes, apparently owing to internal cracks caused by the
heat evolved. In the case of the sample of rubber-covered
wire above referred to, the compound in which the braiding
had been soaked, melted in five minutes, and the rubber
became quite softened by tbe heat in about 15 minutes.
This heating effect is much less in tbe case of most fluid
inaulaton, but seems to be more important in oils having
a high specific induction capacity.
Some ezperimeuta were then arranged to show some
actions of oils undai' high voltages. A plate was immersed
in castor oil, and a point supported a short distance above
the surface, On switching on the transformer a distinct
depression was produced on the surface of the liquid.
Two plates were then arranged, one over the other,
separated by a layer of castor oil on which was floated
some paraffin. Wlien the plates had a difierence of poten-
tial of 20,000 or 30,000 volts, the castor oil rose in a sort
of hill, owing to the fact that its specific inductive capacity
is higher than that of parafhn, so that by its movement the
capacity of the arrangement is increased. It was also
•hewn that particles of sawdust in rosin oil were formed
into chains, producing a discharge across a considerable
distance.
The experimenta were concluded by sending the current
from the transformer through a number of vacuum tubes.
These were, of course, brilliantly illuminated, but the
current was not maintained for more than a few seconds,
as an intense heating of tbe glass and electrodes ensues,
which usually breaks the tubes. This fact renders it
difficult to measure the power absorbed, but it was esti-
mated, from the primary current and voltage, that a com-
paratively small tube may easily be made to absorb about
2'6 h.p. while giving a light of oniy a few candle-power. '
In the above^etcribed ezperimBnta the potential dilfer-
enoai were measured by a direct -reading electrometer,
kindlv lent by Messrs. Swinburne and Co. This and tbe
tnnaiormer are intended to be used for experiments to be
shown by that firm at the Crystal Palace Exhibition.
ALTERNATE-CURItENT MOTORS.*
It is DOt my purpoee in the presenL paper to enter minutely into
the detaila of tbe various attempts that inventore have made to
ptodaoe an operative motor. The hiHtorian who shall collect the
data neceasaryto trace the rise and giou'th oF Che ult^rnating-
onrreut motor will Bud that the subject has been pureuad by men of
Bcienoe in all paria of the civilised world, und he will be obliged to
ohrooicle the fact that up to the present year no thoroughly girac-
tocal motor ayitem has been worked out. The various plaiiB su^;-
nated by inventon and hy engineers may l>a clossiiied into three
typM. Thay are; First, motors operating in synchronUm with
UM onrrent aKwmationE, having a, lield magnetisation produced by
OontlDDOni ourrente with alternate currents applied to the arnia-
tnni circuits, a type originaUy demonstrated by Hoiikinnon in
1883 ; BOcond, motors actuated by the inductive effects of a
rotating field upan closed armature circuits. Urst suggested by
Mf, Twla in 188? ; and third, motors operated by alternate
oorrente, in both field and armature, constituting one of the types
investigated by Mr. Kelly and myself. Ab for as I know, the first
work on altematA-cnrrent motors in this country was nadertatien
ab Oraat Banington, 1886 and I8S7, when I deaigne't and built a
■yochronODH motor, and a motor acting under the repulBL\e
onrrenti oI>taiDed by periodically short-circuiting armature coils
while they were under induction from the field. One of these
motor* waa designed in January, 1SS6. Prof. Thomson, in 1SHT
and 1888, also prodaoed motors of this type, and, what waa of still
mom importanoe, he read a paper before the Institnte of Engi-
neanmemorableforthecIetu-nasB with which he treated the subject.
In order to moreclearly explain the troubles found in designing
thaae and oUier alternating -current motors. I wish to call your
attentioD to two of the properties posaesBed by circuits traversed
by alternate or variable currents. When dealing with continuous
onrrentB we are aoanstomed to consider that the resistance of a
circait is determined by the area and length of the conductor, and
by the speci&c material composing it. In dealing with alternate
currents, it is desirable to extend the definition of the term
" resistance " to a fuller meaning. The Mrm " resistance," as you
all know, is that property of a circuit which determi nee the amoont
of electrical energy disappearing per unit ot current, the value of
this property or " rosistanco " being obtained when the energy in
circuit U divided by the square of the volnmo of current flow.
When st«ady currents occupy a circuit, the resistance value is
conlined to the conditions which exist within the conductor — viz. :
the "reaistance" is proportional to the length of the circuit, in-
versely proportional to its area, and dependent upon the kind of
material employed. When variable or altematecurrents are applied
lo a circuit, the resistance propermay not be confined to the interior
of the conductor, but may extend to its surrounding neighbour-
hood, for with these changing currents work may be done outside
of the conductor as well as inside of it, and, as the losses by
hysteresis and by induced currents cause a disappearanco ot eleo-
(rical energy, they may be defined in Mrms of the current flowins
and a resistance factor. When alternate currents are used, this
factor is always greater than when steady currents Bow, and while
in [larticnlar cases tbe disappearance of electrical energy taking
place outside of a conductor may be small, there are cases in which
the energy lost outside far exceeds the loss within the wire itself.
Another point may be noticed. We are accustomed to think of
the resistance of a wire as a lixed quantity : we say a circuit haa
10 ohms resistance, and we are in the habit of thinking that
this value of 10 ohms is approximately constant and indepen-
dent of the current flow. While this supposition is true for
steady currents, it is not true For those of changing value. If the
conductor carrying an alternate current is oF email section less than
liu. diameter, the internal resistance of tbe circuit remains nearly
constant for alternate currents of the frequency wo ore act^ustomed
to linndlc, while the external resistance, if I may be allowed to
use such B torm, increases with an ioErease of current and may
increase as the square of the current, or faster. While I am aware
that this treatment of the term " resistance " is not in ordinary
use, yet it is quite orthodox ; it has been defiueil by the mathema-
ticians, and its use may be justified, as it is often instructive la
comparing the losses taking place within and about a conductor
uccasioned hy the Sow of altematB currents, in designing alt«r-
nate-current motors, for instance, the toss of energy exterior to
the circuits has to be very carefully watched ; for example, an
alternating -motor armature wound in the ordinary manner mieht
carry one ampere of current with very little loss other than that
due to its interior or ohmic resistance, while l() amperes might
cause a loss exterior to the wire by hysteresis and eddy current*
several times the ohmic toss in value, or the exterior resistance
might become so great as to practica'ly prevent the flow of current
to the value desired.
The other property of a circuit carrying an olternote current to
which I wish to alludes is its eo-callc«l inductance, which is the
proi>erty of inducing upon itself an E.M.F. The E.M F. thue
produced combines with the other E.M.F. 's in circuit to determine
the direction and value of the current at any time. It is not
necessary for the purposes of this paper to trace out just why or
how it hapiiens that these E.M.F. 's are developed, or why Ihey do
not coincide in phase. By looking at the printed sheet, Fig. t,
you will find the diagrams which illustrate the phase dilTerenoes of
those E.M.F. 's ; that marked I. is the E.M F. in a circuit which
urges the current against the resistance of the circuit whether the
resistance be within or about, or both within and about, tbe
conductor. The curve marked II. indicates the relative poaition
or phase — that la. time of flow of the E.M.F. of self-indaction—
which, as you see, is to the right of the first E.M.F., and,
lastly, you will find the phase oF E.M.F. developed upon a
condenser when attached to a soui-ce of alternate currents.
For the present it is only necessary to notice that two of thsse
E.M.F. 's, II. and III , have their maximum and all oorresponding
values at the same time, as, for instance, at the time, C, II, and
III, are opposed in direction, A being + direction, B being -
direction, wnilo the maximum value of each falls upon the same
Let us now briefly examine the various typos of motors that
have been suggested, and which I have classified in three types.
It is well known that if an alternating dynamo be run until ita
speed of alternation or frequency is approximately the same as
that of the generator from which it is to be supplied, and if its
Geld is properly magnetised, it can be coupled to the generator by
simply cloeins a switch : it will then fall into step with the
generator, and will take load and behave in a very proper manner;
the trouble is to get it into step without emptoytng costly or com-
plicated appliances. If one attempts to start such a machine by
commutating the cun'ent in the ordinary manner, he will find th^
the current wQl refuse to Sow in the field circuit, the inductance
of the circuit keeping most alt the current out. How to start a
synchronous motor is a problem still unsolved, but Mr. Kelly and
myself lielicve that we have found a solution.
It is not to he understood that all dynamos will run as synchro-
nous motors with e<jual satisfaction, for while the machines made
in this country will bo run, they are not to he compared for this or
multiple connected service with the Mordey machines made in
England, which, by the way, I consider to be the best-designed
alternators yet proauced. The roison why tlie Mordey machines
excel OS synchronous motors is, that the inductance or selF-inductioa
of the armature circuit is so low that the slightest tendency to fall
out of step is instantly corrected by the necessary current flowing
If one attempt to conple two or more of our American alter-
nators in parallel (I refer to surface-wound machines), he will
find that a hirge false or useless current will surge to and fro
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 18, 1892.
281
between the Armature oircuite ; this false current is due to the fact
that when two alternators are put in |3arallel there are always
short intervals of time, durine which one machine leads and does
work upon the other. This interchange of current between the
machines tends to bring them into more perfect step. Mr. Mordey's
machines may be said to be always alert to correct any difference
of phase—in fact, they may be imagined to' correct each other at
the first intimation of the lagging machine, while the American
machines allow the laggard to fall a considerable distance behind
before the necessary correcting current passes.
While many inventors were eagerly following their various lines
of investigation for the purpose of producing an operative motor,
Mr. Tesla had quietly worked out a new solution of the problem
on an entirely novel basis, by inventing the rotating field — that is,
the AM produced by shifting magnetism, and producing it by
alternate currents. Mr. Tesla's motor is so simple and so beautiful
in theory that many have doubtless wondered why it has not been
brought into general use. If I correctly understand the subject,
it has not been commercially adopted because of the difficulties in
operating it at the frequency generally in use in this country —
viz., 130 complete peri(xls p. s. — and especially because thus far
special generators and circuits having phase-diflTering currents
must be employed. There have been many attempts to subdivide
alternating currents into two or more currents differing in phase.
Special arrangements of condensers for producing phase differences
from a single source of supply have been worked out by M. Leblanc
in France, and by Mr. Kelly in this country. As regards the
motor itself, there are two drawbacks to its use which nave not
thus far been entirely removed. They result from the inductive
effects of the currents upon themselves and upon each other.
To understand this matter in a practical sense, let us assume a
Tesla motor having 3001b. of iron m its field and armature to be
magnetised. Suppose it to be supplied with a 16,000 alternate
current at 300 volts pressure. We have 300 volts then applied to
each of the two field circuits. We can count on the motor being
magnetised to at least 20,000 C.6.S. lines per square inch of iron,
which, with a loss of one watt per pound in hysteresis, would then
represent an external resistance loss, that is, a loss outside the wire,
of 300 watte, and a resistance of T^* — In this case the in-
temal resistance of the copper coils may be made low and may be
neglected.
Now, it is evident that the magnetisation produced in the field
will react upon the field coils and will develop an E.M.F. of self-
induction, and this E.M.F., as shown in Fig. 1, will be OOdeg., or
half a semi-period from the E.M.F. urging the current against
the resistance ; let the value of this induced E.M.F. be 250 volts,
then the E.M.F. urging the current against the resistance will be
found by
>/(applied E.M.F)^ - (E. M.F. of self-induction )« or j3O0l^-25O
= 165 volts.
That is to say. that of the 300 volts applied, 165 volts are used up
in urging current to magnetise the motor when it is doing no work,
and ^0 volts are available for inducing currents in the armature.
If, as we have assumed, the loss due to hysteresis is 300 watts,
then the current flowing would be f^^—J^=l'H amperes, and the
165 volts
resistance external to the wire
300
(1-8)
= 92 ohms.
I do not mean to say that these conditions are actual or cannot
be improved ; they ought to be. I present them simply to show
that with this type of motor the full E.M.F. employed is not avail-
able, as in the example, when with 300 volts applied, but 250 volts
are available and 165 volts are lost.
Moreover, it is necessary that a strong field magnetisation
should be developed in a motor in order that a powerful starting
torque may be had ; as a consequence, the field circuits of this motor
must be composed of a comparatively small number of turns of
wire (the flux or magnetisation in an alternating m^net being
inversely as the number of turns with a given applied E.M.F. and
with a magnetic circuit of ^iven reluctance). It might also be
shown thattne value of the field producing current in these motors —
viz., the current req^uired to run the motor empty — is largely
dependent upon the air gap between the field ana armature, the
current at no load being greater as the clearance between the field
and armature is increased. The Tesla motor then must necessarily
have a false or lagging current at no load, and must expend con-
siderable energy in the production of the rotary field by hvsteresis
loss, until someone, and Mr. Tesla as likely as anvone, shall find
an iron without hysteresis and an air gap that does not require
magnetomotive force. I understand that these motors require
about '6 of the full load current when running free with a factor
of lag of about 7, so that the actual percentage of energy required
to run them free is, approximately, '6 x *7 = 42, or, say, ^ per
cent, of their full loaa energv. This is a rather serious matter
when viewed from the standpomt of the station manager, for if the
motor service requires *6 of its full load current to run free of
work, then evidently '6 of the station capacity must always be in
operation. There is another slight trouble with these motors,
resulting from the fact that the coefficient of mutual induction
does not keep up as the motor is loaded. This mav be explained
by saying that the flux, and oonseauently the E.M.^. developed
in the snort-circuited arnaature coils, decreases as the motor is
loaded ; this decrease of induction affects the speed of the motor,
causing it to fall off with load, while it requires a larger current
in the field to furnish an increased amount of work. Both of these
difficulties, however, are very largely determined by the desism
and calcalation of the motor itself^ and may be brought withlo
working limits. I see no reason whv this motor may not be made
successful and operative by proper designing and caireful study.
The problem before those studying die alternate-current motor
is, however, entirely independent of these difficulties. Had we a
reliable means of dividing an alternate current into two currenta
having the proper difference of phase, Mr. Tesla's motor would
be mMle available and would be ot great commercial value. Mr.
Kelly and myself have found an entirely novel and complete
solution to the problem. As far as we can discover it has never
been attempted by any other experimenters. By the use of a very
simple invention we are able to draw from a single transformer
secondary two phase-differing currents, having any differences of
phase we elect. These currents maintain their phases — that is to
say, times of flow — independent of the amperage of the current
and of each other. We can apply our invention at the station,
splitting the primary current from the dynamos into two phase-
differing currents, or we can lead the primary current through a
transformer and split the secondary into two components.
I regret that I am uni^le to disclose the methods we adopt, bub
I hope to be able to publish our results shortly. Our method will
then allow us to run the Tesla motors from the same circuits, and
by the same generators that we now employ in incandescent alter-
nate-current lighting. The Tesla motor for the past five years has
been waiting for one thing only to develop it — viz., a current
splitter, and we have found one.
Mr. Kelly and I have invented what we call a "condenser
motor," which differs radically from either of the above-men-
tioned types. The problem which we have had in mind was to
construct a motor which should be operated by existing alternate
currents in exactly the same manner that we operate an ordinarjr
motor when supplied with continuous currents. To do this, it is
necessary to construct a motor whose circuits do not possess
(effective) self-induction, or, to put it another way, it is neces-
sary to take away from the alternate-current circuits the effects
of the E.M.F.'s induced in them by their own currents,
which renders unavailable a considerable part of the E M.F.
applied.
I will attempt to explain our shunt motor without the use of
formulae, illustrating tne results obtained as best I can.
Our motor has a laminated sheet-iron field, and may be made in
any of the multipolar or bipolar types. The field winding is con-
nected in series with a condenser to the secondary of a transformer,
which, when fed from the station, furnishes the source of supply.
The armature of the motor, although wound with a special windmg,
is substantially the same as a continuous-current armature, and Is
surrounded by closed copper bands whose function I will describe
later. The theory of the motor is, that, given the necessary
mi^netisation ana armature current, the motor will operate as
wen with alternate as with continuous currents. Returning to
the field circuit, let us glance at the function of the condenser. If
the field windings were connected directly to the transformer or
source of supply we should have two E.M.F.'s in circuit, combin-
ing to oppose the E.M.F. applied by the transformer. Let Uie
line AB, Fig. 3, be this E.M.F., and let B-C be an E.M.F. whose
value is found by multiplying the current (in the case assumed) by
the resistance of the circuit. By resistance is meant the internal
or ohmic resistance plus the external resistance due to hysteresis
and eddy currents, then A-C is the E.M.F. of self-induction ; the
two E.M.F.'s, A-C and BC, combine to always just balance the
transformer E.M.F.
Now, in any operative type of motor the E.M.F. A-C will
always be greater than B-C, or simply the opposition of A-C will
be so great as to practically obstruct a now of current in the
field. If, now, we could introduce a third E.M.F., such as C-D,
which should always oppose AC, we could neutralise the effect of A-C
upon the time of now and value of the current, which in that case
E
would not be opposed by any E.M.F., except C, R, or C = — , as in
R
the case with steady currents.
To get this third E.M. F. we insert a condenser whose capacity
is so chosen that the field current will develop a potential upon the
condenser terminals equal to the E.I4.F. A-C ; if the field current
changes in value from time to time, it will change the values of
both A-C and C-D (as these E.M.F.'s are in series connections) in
almost the same ratio, and consequently these two E.M.F.'s, the
one on the condenser and the other on the field coil, will always
neutralise each other's effects, and the circuit will be left free to
the current flow, as with continuous currents. Perhaps this may
be made simpler by considering the resultant effects produced by
a number of alternators coupled in series, Fig. 4. Let A, B, and
C be these generators ; let tnem be all rigidly coupled to the same
shaft, A being set on the shaft so that itp armature generates an
E.M.F. 90deg. away from that of B and C, while B and C are
coupled to produce the same voltage at the same time and have
their terminals opposed ; then B and C will exert no effect upon
the circuit, for they will always neutralise each other. The E.M.F.
of A corresponds to the transformer E.M.F.; the E.M.F. of B
to the E.M.F. of self-induction on the field coil, and the E.M.F.
of C to the E.M.F. on the condenser. In this way we obtain the
necessary current to magnetise our motor unrestrained by the
E.M.F. of self-induction.
The next difficulty to clear up in order to operate our motor, ta
to get rid of the external resistance in the armature circuit. In
orqer that a motor may operate economically and regulate properly
for changes of load and current, it is desirable that the armature
resistance should be very low. The principal resistance offered to
alternate currents in an armature is, as before stated, due to the
work outside of the armature wire in the iron core ; these lessee
in the iron are occasioned by the alternating magnetiiiation
developed by the armature current. To remove thii Ices of wnrgy
282 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 18, 1892.
we have hMl to deatrojp most mU at the «niutiire muiietiBm in tbe
foUowiiig iDHiner : °
Yon an tU kwan that if % nuf^et core is wonod with two eqaal
coila in oppoeite directtoiu uid is eoDDeotad with a current wurce,
the reantting magnetism wiU be only that due to ths difference of
Oie winding diapUcement, and will be practically negligible.
About onr aruatare, see Fig. 6, we place elMecircnitod copper
bands or wires, bo diipoaed as (o be parallel to the direction of
current flow in the armature condactori. The currento flowing in
the armature windiD|» induce oppoeitelv directed curronte in the
Btatioruuy banda, and, oonsequsotly. the armature core ts Hur-
Tonnded by two aheeta of current during each wave of current
flow ; the iheet of current on the armature Sowing in one direction,
while the cmrant in the stationary bands flows in ^s oppoeite
Oireotion, thus practically preventing any magnetising effect, and
tho», also, prerenting any loaa by hysterafif and oddy current* in
tinaous-ourrent motor. It is not to be nnderstood that tho motor
has an efficiency of 96 to 98 per oent. Far from it. In onr imBll
motors H h.p. and i b.p) the losses in the fleld and armature will
■SK^eS'te 30 to 40 per cent. In the laiger tvpsa of from
2h.p. to 5 h.p. theloBSwill notexoeed 2fi per cent., wnile in the still
larger sissa the loaaes will be much leaa. The problem of the
efBciency of the motor la alntoat the same aa the mciency of the
traneformer, and dependa in lai^ mewnre on the care and skill ei
To operate our motors it is neoosanry that the speed of the dynamo
ahould remain constant— aa constant as possible, If the stations
will give us a deflniU number of slteroations, and will "■»'t*»'"
that number, our motois will behave bMiutifnlly ; if the ftltematinnB
the core. Now, it can l>e shown that the work loet in the copper
bands will be verv small, providing the resistance of these bands
be kept low, and we have found that this loss can be made as
low aa one'tbird of the inside or ohmic loss, a result which
etiablee na, by proper designing, to make our armaturea almost
as efficient aa those of the beat direct- current type, with small
additional ezpenae.
One other point of advantage obt^ned by the use of the com-
pensating beoda ahonld be mentioned : aa the cross-magnetiaation
of the armature Is uracUcally deetroyed there is no change of lead
under variation of load, as there is no distortion of the fleld
maffuetism by the armature cnrrent. These resulta are eminently
aa^faatory. In describing the Teala motor, I pointed out that
thare waa a loss of voltage, or that of the voltage applied, a con-
siderable portion waa unavailable. In our motor, 96 to 9S per
□ent. of the voltage applied to the armature is available, while the
operating oonditions are ideutioally the same as found with a oon-
Flg. 6 UlusttAtce the general deewn arrangement of the motor
vatom. The condenaer ia placed ei^er npon the wall or under tho
3 base. The E.M.F. applied to the flsld Is about ISO
volts ; the armature E.M.F. is either 60 or 10 volta. The B.M.F.
on the condenaer ia, approximatoly, 750 volte. While thia B.U.F.
may appear e](cee«ive at first sight, there ia no real danger from
its use, as a contact acroes the terminals would instant^ reduce
the potential, and accidental contact is easily prevented by
properly insulated wires.
There ia one other type of motor to be mentioned — the series-
wound motor. When operating any of the ordinary types of
motors by alternating currents, it is necsBaarr that the puae of
the fleld magnetism must coincide with the pnaae of the E.M.F.
applied to the armature circuit — that is to say, the fleld n
netism must arrive at its maximum value al '' '' '^
i mMg-
anttGq
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCfl 18, 189-2.
^83
E.M.F. applied to the armature arrives at ite greatest valae;
for if these two values do not coincide in time, the counter E.M.F.
developed by the rotation of the armature will not directly oppose
the E.M.F. applied to the armature, but will be skewed off one
side, and consocjuently will allow a large false current to flow in the
armature circuit. Fig. 7 illustrates tne point, for suppose they do
not coincide in phase, then A-B represents the maximum value of
the alternating E.M.F. applied to the armature, and B-C represents
the lagging magnetisation, which, as I have stated, should coincide
with A-B; consequently B-S represents the counter E M.F. of
rotation, which is, of course, directlv opposed to B-C and should
be directly opposed to A-B, or should occu^ the position of B-E.
It can be shown that D-F is the E.M.F. urging the current
against the resistance of the armature, or C-R, while E-F, which
is smaller than D-F, would be that E.M.F., providing the
magnetism B-C coincide with A-B. All this simply means that,
when operating a motor by alternate currents, the maf^netism
in the field should coincide with the E.M.F. applied to the arma-
ture, or else there will be a false current in the armature circuit.
The condenser accomplishes this desired result in the shunt type
of motor ; in the series-wound motor the magnetisation necessarily
coincides with the armature E.M.F., because they both accom-
pany the same current. The series-wound type of motor, then,
18 the simpler to deal with ; let us examine it for a moment. If
an alternate-current source be applied to a series-wound motor
properly constructed with laminated fields, etc., the motor will
run with feeble torque, and if one investigate the cause of this
want of torque and power, it will be found at once to be due to
the inductance of the motor ; the E.M.F. of self-induction will
greatly reduce the available E.M.F. applied to the motor,
and consequently lower its capacity to translate electric energy
into mechanical power. We have removed this deleterious effect
of the E.M.F. of inductance in the following manner: Fie. 8
represents a motor having its field and armature connected in
series, while c is a condenser also connected in series ; the distribu-
tion of the E.M.F. is given in the diagram. The transformer
supplies the motor with current at 50 volts pressure, the E.M.F.
of self- induction located almost entirely upon the field coil is
assumed to be 60 volts, the E.M.F. on the condenser is. conse-
quently, 60 volts for the current in circuit and the load on the
motor, and consecmently, if the current varies, then both the con-
denser and self-induction E.M.F. vary in approximately the same
manner, thus leaving the circuit to receive current from the trans-
former and to do work. In my judgment, this type of motor will
be of great practical use ; not only will these motors successfully
handle all constant load problems, such as pumping, blowing,
etc., but they will be exceedingly useful in crane and elevator
work, while their service in propelling cars can hardly be
estimated. In all cases where hand control is required, they can
be operated as successfully as continuous-current motors.
Tne most serious Question we have met in pursuing this problem
has been that of finding a suitable condenser. It may be well to
state that none of the ordinary ty^jes of condensers— viz., those
made of paper, paraffin, glass, mica, etc. —are of the slightest use
We have found that the residual charge in all the above-mentioned
substances absolutely prevents their acceptance; this residual
charge seems to depend upon the non- homogeneity of the dielectric
and upon the want of an absolute contact between the plates of the
condenser and the dielectric surfsice. When glass is used as a
dielectric and a potential of 1,000 volts (average) is maintained upon
the condenser, the glass heats rapidly until, finally, it is shattered
to pieces. Condensers of glass, when raised to a potential of 15,000
volts, became phosphorescent, rapid flashes of light ap|>eared in
various parts of the glass, while they withstood the potential, which
was only for a few moments. Vulcanite we hnd unreliable ;
metallic chips are always present, and for this reason, if for no
other, it fails to stand satisfactorily. W^e have succeeded in pro-
ducing what we call " films" from 003 to '005 of an inch thick,
which will surely stand a potential of 1,000 volts. We believe that
these condensers are entirely commercial, and that they will not
deteriorate, while their cost per microfarad is quite low. So per-
fect are they that they show but little trace of residual charge,
thev do not heat perceptibly when in circuit for a long time, and
witnstand a potential of from 2,000 to 3,000 volts with a dielectric
thickness of '006in. The processes of their maimfacture will not be
made public at present.
Of tne three types of motors mentioned in the beginning of my
paper, I have but partially described one ; the other two can be
worked out. We believe we know how to |x;rfect the synchronous
type ; we expect to do so. The Tesla motor is perhaps the simplest
of the three to work out from the beginning, but. like all such
problems, it requires study and careful investigation. The so-
called multiphase motors, of which much has lately been written,
possess no advantage over the two-phase type as devised by
Afr. Tesla ; in fact, the two-phase motors are neither better nor
worse, but the European multiphase motors appear to have
b€»en carefully designed ; the relations between field and arma-
ture seem better, and, if they possess any superiority over the
American rotary motors, it is derived from these conditions rather
than from any new departure in the application of the three-phase
currents.
Mr. Kelly and I have produced motors which are operative on
existing circuits. As we have stated, our motors start at full torque,
run to a definite speed and behave exactly like direct-current
motors under load. So perfectly does our compensating winding
eliminate the E.M.F. of self-induction from the armature circuit,
that this circuit offers very nearly the same opposition to alternate
currente of a frequency of 130 complete periods p. s. that it offers
to oontinuouB currents ; there is, therefore, little falling off of
speed due to the self-induction of the armature circuit— in fact,
we can over-compound the motor by its own load by setting the
brushes off the neutral point of commutation, thus changing the
flux through the field.
Your president has asked me to address you on the alternate-
current motor problem, and I presume he expects me to offer an
excuse on behalf of the profession for not having placed in your
hands a perfected motor adapted to your circuits oefore this time.
I can only say that the problem has been a difficult one. There are
so many opportunities offered to alternating currents to dissipate
their energy, so many more than are found with cortinuous
currents, that one has to be very keen -sighted to avoid undue
waste in constructing alternating machinery ; but, from the know-
ledge already acquired, I feel convinced that the coming year
will place the alternate-current motor more firmly on its feet, and
that oefore the year elapses many stations represented in this con-
vention will be testing the accuracy of the statements contained
in this paper.
LIVERPOOL LIGHTING.
REPORT OF THE CITY ENGINEER.
We quote the following from the Livei'pool Couiier of
Wednesday :
** ' What is to be the light of the future?' is a subject which
is being seriously considered both by corporate bodies and
private individuals. A great commercial community like Liver-
pool is deeply concerned in this matter, and the Corporation
and the leading officials have recently been giving it much
attention. The Council not long ago passed a resolution :
* That the Watch Committee be instructed to consider and
report to the Council as to the advisability and best method
and probable cost of using the electric light in lieu of the
present mode of lighting the city,' and ' That the city engineer
report to the Lighting, etc., Sub-Committee.* In pursuance of
this, Mr. H. Percy Boulnois, the city engineer, has prepared an
able and exhaustive report dealing with tne whole subject of the
suggested lighting of Liverpool by electricity.
"In commencing his report, the engineer thinks that it would be
of interest to the committee and to the Council (as it will certainly
be to the public), if he recapitulated the history of the question of
lighting tne public streets of Liverpool by electricity, it appears
that this question first came before the (jouncil on October SOth,
1878, when a resolution was passed directing the then borough
and water engineer to report to the Council with reference to
electric lighting, and its applicability for lighting the public
streets. In January, 1879, the British Electric Light Company
applied to the Watch Committee and obtained permission to give
an exhibition of the electric light at the large lamppost opposite
St. Nicholas's Church, the company bearing all the expense. In
the meantime the consideration of the report of the engineer
was finally postponed in February, 1879, until the Corporation
obtained an Act, at that time being promoted in Parliament, and
which was entitled ' An Act to make further provisions for the
lighting of the Borough of Liverpool,' and to * extend the powers
of the Corporation in relation to the supply of light by electricity.'
The primary object of this Bill seems to have been to confer upon
the Corporation powers, for a limited period, to make experiments
in connection with electric lighting, and to light certain portions
of the city by electricity. The Act was obtained in due course,
but its powers expired in September, 1884, and have not been
renewed. In pursuance of the powers conferred by that Act, the
Watch Committee, in September, 1879, directed the Lighting, etc.,
Sub-Committee to obtain plans, estimates, and tenders K>r the
lighting by electricity of the east side of St. George's Hall, and the
open spaces surrounding.
*' In October, 1879, the engineer was instructed to report to the
Watch Committee as to utilising the Wellington column for the
purposes of electric lighting, and also a site near the weighing
machine house, Old Haymarket. This report was presented, when
the then engineer pointed out that the concentration of the light
had certain objections, and that the use of more numerous lignts
of less intensity placed at moderate heights would produce a more
satisfactory effect, and he suggested that four lights should be
placed, one each at the Wellington Monument, the south-east
portico of St. (ieorge's Hall, the south-western tower of the North-
western Hotel, and the tower of the Imperial Hotel. But with
reference to the lamp on the Wellington Monument, he pointed
out that a very objectionable shadow would be thrown by the monu-
ment unless two lights were provided, and which would be a wasteful
mode of procedure. The cost of this lighting was estimated at £600
per annum, if the engine employed at the Picton Reading-room
was used to generate the power. The Watch Committee recom-
mended the Council to adopt the engineer's report, and asked the
Library Committee to grant the use of their engine for the above
purposes. On October 29, 1879, the Council granted the neces-
sary permission. In November, the Library C'Ommittee passed a
resolution postponing the consideration of the resolution of the
Watch Committee until the electric lighting in connection with
the Picton Reading-room had been brought to maturity.
" Nothing further seems to have been done until October 12,
1880, when the Watch Committee passed a resolution requesting
the late engineer to furnish a detailed report upon the subject S.
lighting the streets and places of public resort of the city by
means of electricity, and the late engineer reported on the
16th November, 1880, to the Watch Committee, and in this
report he recommended that advertisements should be iMued
284
THE ULESOTRlCAL ENGINEER, MARCH 18, 1892.
inviting tenders for the lighting of various streets in the city
by electricity for periods of three, six, or twelve months, at a fixed
sam, to include all plant and working expenses ; and suggested
certain streets and open spaces where a trial mi^ht be made. A
special meeting of the Watch Committee was neld in the same
month to consider the report, when it was approved. In December,
1880, the engineer submitted tenders for lighting the open spaces,
and the tenaer of the British Electric Light Company, Limited,
was accepted. In April of that year the contract with the British
Electric Light Com^Mmy was finally settled and signed. In May,
the engineer reported that the company had not commenced light-
ing the streets, according to the conditions of their contract,
and further deUys were, from time to time, reported. There also
appears to have been some difficulty in connection with
the overhead wiring, and an application was made by
the companv, in October, 1881, for permission to lay the wires
underground, which was declined. In January, 1889, the company
withdrew from their contract. In May, 1889, the late engineer was
directed by the Lighting, etc., Sub-Committee to report as to the
best way of lighting the city by electricity, and the probable cost,
distinguishing the lighting of some part, or [>arts, as an experi-
ment, and also as to the comparative cost of lighting by electricity,
and of obtaining the same amount of light by improved gas
appliances ; and in September of that year he presented a
snort report upon the subject, dealing with the electric light-
ing Act of that session, and stating that the experience of the
cost of street lighting by electricity had been very small, and
did not furnish sufficiently reliable aata to base a comparison of
cost as between it and gas, except that the cost of electric
lighting, when confined to streets alone, greatly exceeded the cost
of gas. The late engineer concluded his report by stating that in
view of the numerous applications that would be made for licenses
or provisional orders under the Act of 1882 he did not think it
advisable for the Corporation at present to take any action in the
matter.
'* The Lancashire Maxim-Weston Electric Company, Limited, in
January, 1884, commenced lighting certain streets with 20 lamps,
and the late engineer reported from time to time upon tnis
lighting. In April the company was wound up, and in June the
gas lamps in the locality were religeted, from which time the
electric lighting ceased. Nothing further seems to have been
done until the year 1888, when the Liverpool Electric Supply
Company, Limited, obtained a license authorising them to erect
and maintain electric lines and works, and to supply electricity
within the city of Liverpool, and afterwards in the year 1889 they
obtained a provisional order.
" Mr. Boulnois gives the result of enquiries made with regard
to street lighting in other places. Replies were received n-om
270 towns, with a result that out of the total of 348 towns com-
municated with the engineer was only able to hear of nine towns
the streets of which are partially lighted by electricity, and 14
towns which had previously lighted some of their streets by elec-
tricity and had suosequently abandoned it for various causes.
'* Coming to the immediate question as to the advisability and
best method and probable cost of using the electric light in lieu
of the present mode of lighting in the city of Liverpool, the engi-
neer expresses the opinion that there is no necessity for replacing
gas by electricity, unless a largely increased amount of light is
secured, or the same amount of light can be secured at a less cost.
The factors which so largely determine the preference for electric
lighting inside buildings — such as pollution and heating of the air,
consumption of oxygen, artistic effect, etc. — do not apply where
open street lighting is concerned. As to the best method, the
engineer is oropinion that the best electrical method at present
known is that of lighting the streebs by means of arc lamps
of from 1,200 c.p. t^ 2,000 c.p. (nominal) each, placed at such
heights and in such positions as will secure the maximum
effMt of the light. With regard to the probable cost of using
the electric lignt in lieu of the present mode of lighting the
city, it will be seen, on reference to the engineer's reports on other
towns, that the introduction of electric lignt in place of gas lamps
invariably costs more, but this cost is accompanied by greatly
increased efficiency of illumination.
" The engineer is of opinion that overhead wiring would not be
for one moment tolerated in Liverpool as a permanent means of
sapplyiug energy to the lamps ; consequently his estimates are
based upon underground cables, and include lamps and standards
of an ornamental character. The estimate is as follows : First
cost : electric installation, including land, buildings, machinery,
dynamos, etc. , cables, arc lamps, and standards, say, £35,750 ;
annual cost : supplying energy to and maintenance and cleaning,
etc., of lamps for the mstrict shown on plate No. 2 accompanying
this report, less contribution from the Mersey Docks and Harbour
Board for lighting the landing stage, etc., £7,900; interest and
sinking fund on £28,650, say, £1,958 ; total estimated cost per
annum £9,858.'*
WALLASEY LIGHTING.
The following is the report of Mr. A. Bromley Holmes,
M.I.C.K, to the Wallasey (Cheshire) Local Board :
In reply to your request for a report as to the practicability
and cost of lighting your district, or any section of it, with the
electric light, utilising any power that might be available at
Seaoombe and Egremont ferries, and also as to how far the pro
posed new gas works could be utilised for both gas and electrical
marA^ IbtSr U> jubmit tiie f(^owing for your consideration.
I have been furnished with a map of the district, and have
inspected the site of the proposed new ^as works, and made
myself acquainted with the principal residential and businees
districts wnere the electric light might be required. I have also
inspected the plant at the Seaoombe and Egremont ferries. Ample
space for a generating station could be without inconvenience pro-
vided at the new eas works, and as for a scattered district, Uke the
one under consioeration, a high-tension system of distribution
would be necessary, the position of the gas works would not be
unsuitable for such a station. The pUnt now in use at the
Seaoombe and Egremont ferries could not be utilised for electric
lighting. There is no engineering difficulty in supplying the i^h^ ^
any portion of your district in which there mignt be a sufficient
demand for it. As the cost of lighting the straets by electricity
would exceed the cost of lighting them by gas, I assume that you
would not entertain any scheme which did not offer a reasonable
prospect of remunerative return on the capital expended from the
revenue to be derived from private consumers. It is therefore
necessary to consider : 1. The amount of capital expenditure
required. 2. The price at which electricity could be supplied.
3. The demand that might be expected for the electric light.
In my opinion the smallest station that could be worked with
reasonable prospect of success would be one capable of supplying,
say, 5,000 16-c.p. incandescent lamps, or the equivalent. Tne cost
of such a station, including the necessary distributing mains and
transformers, engines, dynamos, and all accessories, complete
ready for work, I estimate approximately at £30,000. This
sum includes the cost of the necessary buildings, but not of
the land. From a station of this size in full operation you
should be able to supply electricity to the public at the
price of 7d. per Board of Trade unit, covering all working expenses,
and providing 3^ per cent, interest on capital expended and a
redemption fund of, say, 3 per cent. Electricity at 7d. a unit is
practically equivalent to gas at 6s. per 1,000 cubic feet. I under-
stand the present price ofgas is 3s. per 1,000. The matter therefore
seems to depend on whether a sufficient number of consumers can
be found to adopt the electric light at a cost about double that of
gas. The advantages of the electric light as regards health, com-
fort, and cleanliness are so great that in Liverpool and other large
towns there is a large ana rapidly increasing demand for tne
electric light at higher prices than that named above. I ought to
point out to you that although the cost of electricity would be at
first double that of gas, there is no doubt that this cost will be
gradually reduced (especially when the incandescent patents
expire in 1893), and it is reasonable to anticipate that within a very
few years electricity will be supplied at a cost equivalent to the
present price of gas. In my opinion you would be justified
in undertaking the supply of electricity if you could obtain
applications in the first instance for, say, 2,000 lamps, provided
the applications were from consumers grouped closely together at
two or three points in your district. The cost of laying down
mains for sucn a small number of lights, if scattered over a large
area, would be quite prohibitory. 1 think it probable from my
inspection of the district that there will not be at present sufficient
demand for the electric light to make it worth while for your
Board to undertake the supply, but this can only be ascertained
by a canvass of the possible consumers.
TAUNTON.
The following is the report of the Joint Finance and Watch,
Lighting, and General Purposes Committee re purchase of the
electric lighting company's undertaking, to be presented to a
special meeting of the Town Council, to be held at the Council-
cnamber on Tuesday, the 22nd of March, 1892.
Your committee report that the town clerk has been in corre-
spondence with the Board of Trade and the Local Government
Board, as to the purchase of the electric lighting company s
undertaking, and the committee herewith present tneir letters.
He has also had an interview with one of the heads of the electric
lighting department of the Board of Trade, and has gone through
the driut of their letter with him. In addition to the matters set
out in the letter, the official informed him that a license might be
obtained in about four months after the necessary advertisements
had been published, but that a provision&l order could not come
into operation until August, 1893 ; their fees on the order would be
£50, a reasonable time would be allowed for the removal of the
overhead wires, but ours being an exceptional case he could not
say what time would be granted. In the opinion of the Board
the order need not contain any reference to the purchase, but the
town clerk informed them that the Local Government Board
would require a full description of the property to be purchased
in the oraer. Should the Council decide to purchase, your com-
mittee sugsrest that a license (which could be granted by August
next) shall be obtained for a limited period, say three years, and
that the Local Government Board be asked to hold an enquiry in
the autumn of this year, and to srive their sanction for a loan to
be repaid in three years if the Council do not obtain the provisionfd
order, and for 30 years if they do so ; the Council could then take
over the works, and carry on the business until the provisional
order could be obtained, which would probably be m August,
1893, until which time it would be impossible to borrow the money
to pay the purchase-money. The Board of Trade should also be
asked to allow the Council three years before they should be
required to carry the wires underground. The following are oopiee
of the letters of the Board of Traide and Local Government Board
to the Town Council hereinbefore referred to«
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 18, 1892.
285
Board off Tnde (Railway Departaient), London, S. W.,
15th February, 1892.
Electric Lighting Acta, 188£ and 1888.
Sir, — In rof^ to yoar letter of the 10th inst. I am directed by
tho Board of Trade to inform you that they are not aware that any
difficulty is likely to arise which would prevent the Corporation of
Taunton from obtaining itatutor^ir power to supply electrical energy
for public and priTate purpoees witnin the borough, but that if they
desire to apply lor power to supply outside the borough the consent
of the local authority of Buchoutaidedistrict should first be obtained.
I am further to inform vou that, while the Board of Trade are of
opinion that the time has come when applications for statutory
powers should be made by means of provisional order rather than
oy means of license, they would, in the circumstances referred to,
be prepared to consider the adviBability of granting a license on
the understandine that the Corporation would apply for a pro-
visional order at tne earliest opportunity. I am, however, to point
out that Section 3 (5) of the Electric Lighting Act, 1882, provides
that no license shall be granted by the Board of Trade until after
the expiration of a period of three months from the date of the first
publication of the notice required by that section, and to inform
Sou that it is usually found impracticable to complete the pre-
minariee necessary to the issue of a license until after the expira-
tion of some four or five months from the date of application. I
am at the same time to state that the Board of Trade, as at present
advised, would not be prepared to approve of the use of overhead
wires for the supply of energy under a license or provisional order
as a permanent arrangement, at any rate in the central and
populous portions of the town, and that any license or order
granted to the Corporation would require the removal of any such
existing wires within a reasonable time. With reference to the
enquiry cont-ained in the final paragraph of your letter, I am to
state that the Board of Trade are not aware of any case in which
a local authority has purchased an installation under the circum-
stances referred to. A copy of the rules made by this department,
with respect to applications for licenses and provisional orders, is
enclosed herewith, together with a copy of a model form of pro-
visional order. — I am, Sir, your obedient servant,
The Town Clerk, Taunton. Courtnay Boyue.
Local Government Board, Whitehall, S. W.,
29th February, 1892.
Sir, — I am directed by the Local Government Board to advert
to your letters of the 10th and 19th inst. , with reference to the
proposal of the Town Council of Taunton to purchase the under-
takmg of the Taunton Electric Lighting Company, and in reply
to state that the Board are unable to re^r you to any case where
a sanitary authority have purchased the unaertaking of an electric
lighting company. The Board assume that the Town Council
contemplate effecting the purchase under the provisions of Section 2
of the Electric Lighting Act, 1888, and in such a case the Board
consider that, before the Town Council can be empowered to
borrow for the acciuisition of the undertaking, they must be in the
position of an authority authorised to supply electricity by the
license or order of the Board of Trade. The Board understand
Uiat the Town Council have communicated with the Board of
Trade in this matter, and it is proposed to obtain from that
department a license under Section 3 of the Electric Lighting
Act, 1882. When the Town Council have obtained from the
Board of Trade the requisite authority to supply electricity,
the Board will be prepared to entertain an application for
sanction to a loan to defray the cost of the purchase. In
connection with such an application the Board will require to
be furnished with (1) a copy of a resolution of the Town Council
anthorisinf^ the application ; (2) a copy of the Board of Trade
order, or license, as the case may be ; (3) a full description of the
works proposed to be purchased, with particulars of tne dates at
which the several parts were first constructed or provided, and
with a valuation by an independent valuer who has had experi-
enoe of similar undertakings ; and (4) information in the enclosed
form as to the financial position of the district. I am to add, that
if the authority by whicn the Town Council may be authorised to
supply electricity should be a license under Section 3 of the Act of
1882, the Board would limit the period for the repayment of any
loan which they mu^ht sanction to the period for which the license
is granted. By reference to the section it will be observed that
this period cannot exceed seven years — I am, Sir, your obedient
servant, C. N. Dalton, Assistant Secretary.
To T. Meyler, Esq., town clerk, Taunton.
The Borough Surveyor's Report to the Joint Committee.
Mr. Mayor and Gentlemen, —I have made a very careful inspec-
tion of tne buildings and plant at the central station of the
Taunton Electric Lighting Company, and herewith produce
detailed reports under their several headings.
Buildings and Land,
The buildings have but recently been erected, and with few
exceptions appear to be nearly as they left the builder's hands ;
but, nevertheless, it is necessary that 5 per cent, per annum be
deducted for depreciation. The cost of the buildings, including
arohitect's fees, was as follows :
£ s. d.
Contract sum, with extras and architect's fees 2,491 5 3
Less 5 per oent. per annum for two years 249 3 0
£2,242 2 3
"^-^ of land 860 0 0
BoHera, etc
Two Babcock and Wilcox water-tube boilers, 105
h.p. nominal, each supplied with water through
a teed-water heater by two Worthingtoq pumps,
the working pressure being 1401b. per square
inch, and au steam-pipes, cost complete
The iron tank and girders, etc
Fire ladder
Carried to summary
EngineSt etc.
Two horizontal compound non -condensing engines,
by Ruston and Proctor, of Lincoln, witn speed of
125 revolutions per minute, indicating 75 h.p.
each, with 1401b. ooiler pressure. Cost, fixed ...
Two vertical high-speed central- valve engines,
non-condensing, by Willans and Robinson, indi-
cating 135 h.p., at 350 revs, per minute. Cost, fixed
These engines are connected to two alternators.
Cost, fixed
The Ruston and Proctor engines drive a counter-
shaft from which the arc dynamos are driven by
clutch pulleys, so that any machine can l>e
stopped or started independently of the others
for the arc lighting. There are four of these
dynamos of 30 arc-lighting power each, the cost
of which was
And the countershafting cost
The link belting for same
Elwell and Parker dynamo
Armature, spare
£ s. d.
881 0 0
51 5 0
32 5 0
£964 10 0
£ s. d.
568 2 0
919 10 0
1,008 0 0
Carried to summary
MainSf Posts^ etc.
Wire, cost
Labour to ditto
Poles — Allen, etc
Insulators
Labour to fixing poles
Switchboards and measuring instruments
2,000 0 0
213 11 0
196 8 0
180 0 0
34 8 0
£5,119 19 0
£ s. d.
804 1 6
304 17 11
800 0 0
50 0 0
186 12 0
128 0 0
Carried to summary £2,273 11 5
Accumuiators. £ s. d.
Those at Mr. Massingham's, those at St. John's
Church (X h.p. motor) 202 13 11
Lamps of all sorts, some having been in work a long
time 831' 0 0
Transformers fixed to the clubs, and other places ... 303 0 0
£1,336 13 11
50 per cent. off. 668 6 11^
Carried to summary £668 6 11^
Note. — There are a few items, such as an iron barrow, a clock,
etc, which £20 would cover.
Summary. £ s. d.
BuUdings and land 3,092 2 3
BoUers £964 10 6
Engines, etc 5,119 19 0
Mains, posts, etc 2,273 11 5
AccumuUtors, etc 668 6 llj
£8,358 0 5
Less 10 per cent, for two years 1,671 12 0
Lightning conductor
Two series lamps
Sundries
6,686 8
5
£10,446 17
25 0
6 0
20 0
2*
0
0
£3,092 2 3
£10,497 17 71
Observations on the Plant Generally, and Suooestions for
THE More Efficient Working, Reduoin(i the Expense, and
THE Cost of Appliances for such purpose.
The plant is in good condition, but at least 10 per oeaikt, per
annum should be oeducted for depreciation. Everjrthing appears
to be in good repair.
The ^stem lor supplying the electricity is called the high-
tension for alternating arc, and low-tension for the accumulators.
There is a loss of 30 per cent, from the use of accumulators, but
the incandescent lamps last longer on account of the even tension
to be obtained by their aid. The high tension carries the high
pressure up to the houses. The distributing mains, therefore, are of
small size, and a large district can be served from one station,
and the reflation of pressure in the distributing mains can be
arranged with the greatest nicety witliin a variation of 2 percent.;
therefore, should it be desired to extend the lighting to the outer
area of the borough, suoh an extension can be readily made.
The boilers in use are of the modem type, and are used exten-
sively in conjunction with electric lighting. A considerable saying
might be eniBcted in this department ; the excessive waste of oil,
waste, and water, could be reel uced at least 50 per cent. The water
should be used again and again, and the loss would be only due to
evaporation. An oil filter is required, so that the oil may be run
to the bearings in a simple manner ; the saving would be very
considerabla A mechanical stoker would also, to a oertain
extent, prevent the very large volumes of smoke escaping, which
286
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 18, 189S.
is BO much complained of as a naisance. The ooal used costs £2
per diem. This can be very materially redaoed by partitioning off
the stack, or forming a diaphragm to check the excessive draught
when only one boiler is used ; this, with a smoke-consuming
apparatus, would about render the works thus far perfect. The
cost of ElUot's patent "smoke annihilator," perfection guaranteed,
would cost about £80. The boilers are in fairly good condition,
they have been in work only about two years, and have been so
reported by the boiler examiners for the insurance company up
to July last.
The engines are in good condition. Those made by Messrs.
Ruston and Proctor, of Lincoln, drive a countershaft 5in diameter,
from which the arc dynamos are driven bv clutch pulleys, so that
any machine can be stopped or started independently of the
others. The two vertical high-speed central valve engines are
connected to two alternators by 12in. link belting, and are wasting
power (if their indication is correct) : tins we nave no means of
testing at present. All engines which run under different loads
shoula have their indicators fixed ; the steam can be regulated
accordingly, and a saving effected also. With the above engines,
a simple cose is demonstrated. There are but 515 incandescent
lamps wired, and only 75 per cent, of these run nightly, thereby
making n very considerable loss ; whereas, to work economically
with such high-pressure engines, there should be at least 1,300 —
16 c.p., or the equivalent of candle-power — which would then be
only a fair load on the engine. This would mean 785 lamps more
could be had by the same power which is being spent on the 515,
or this number, run as proposed, would bring to the revenue over
£500 per annum, as set forth in detail hereto annexed.
The profits derived from the supply of electricity to private con-
sumers would increase rapidly witn the extension of the demand,
as the staff and other expenses would be sufficient to work a much
larger number of lamps than those enumerated. The charge of
6d. per Board of Trade unit for private lighting would be equiva-
lent to 3s. 6d. per 1,000ft. of coal gas, and in some towns thev con-
sider an 8-c.p. incandescent lamp will li^ht interiors equally as
well, if not better, than the gas jets of which they are supplied by
the gas companies, with the illuminating power of 14 candles.
The prices vary somewhat in different towns, but an average charge
is as follows : Per annum.
8 c. p. bedrooms £0 8 0
10 ,, sitting-rooms 0 14 0
10 „ passage and hall 0 16 0
1,200,, arc, 2,000 hours 23 15 0
16 ,, incandescent, 3,250 hours 6 15 0
32 „ „ „ 9 18 0
It is not possible to give an exact estimate of the cost of extending
the supply to a larger area, but it may be taken roughly at £50
for each arc light and lamp complete, and £10 for each 32-c.p.
incandescent.
I should also mention that the oost of production of electricity
and electric lighting is being rapidly cheapened by improve-
ments in dynamos, and more especially in the lamps; the
patent upon the latter expires January, 1893, when the price
will be about Is. 6d. for each incandescent lamp. (The cost
now is 3s. 9d. each lamp. ) The introduction of recording meters
would be satisfactory to the consumers, as well as to the
generators of the electricity. I find that 1 i.h.p. may be taken to
produce 140 candles in incandescent lamps ; the same power would
be equal to 860 candles of arc light, therefore it will be readily
seen that the arc system of lighting is by far the best for all main
thoroughfares. At the same time, some towns are using the
incandescent lamps in side streets, by placing them in the oul gas
lanterns, which is found to be economical ; therefore 32-c.p.
lamps would have to be used in main streets, so that there would
be 196 32-C4). lamps available, and this would mean as many gas
jets shut ofi^at £2. 8s. per annum.
I calculate the saving on coal at least £100
Oil and waste 50
Water 35
£185
I have before stated that for each incandescent lamp the cost
would be £10 ; that, of course, is the estimate where there are no
wires, but where the wires are run, the cost, bv using Swinburne
and Co.'s transformer-lamp combination, would be reduced to £6
each — i ti.f instead of running the lamps in series, transformers
would be used.
There are contracts existing with several firms I thought better
to leave out of this report. I have endeavoured to give the present
value of everything which could be seen, and to carry out the
instructions of the Joint (Committee.
The mains are carried overhead on iron poles, about 30ft. in
height, and the lamp suspended about 24ft. from the ground. The
alternating current at present is 14 amperes, 2,(X)0 volts, so this
would be dangerous if carried into the houses, therefore a trans-
former is plac^ outside the house, which reduces the current to
UK) volte, and is therefore harmless. The lamp can be lowered
for cleaning, etc., by a small windlass arrangement, but this at
present is very defective — the ropes should be of steel. The wire
used for the mains is ^/ig hard-drawn copper, insulated with okonite,
and of which there are about seven miles used in the several
circuits. The insulators are of Johnson-Phillipts fluid type
throughout, and appear to be in good condition.
There are six circuits formed from the central station — t.e., two
for alternating system, two for public arcs system, and two for
private arc system.
There are 31 public arcs of 1,200 c.p. each, and 41 private arcs
of dh0 same iUjajmnaXiug power, but the lamps are made for double
carbon for public lighting, and but sinele carbons for private
lighting. The switchboard for the arc dynamos is of the plug
type, ay its use any machine can be connected to any circuit
without interrupting the supply of current to the lampe. 'The
alternator switcnboards are fitted with measuring instruments of
v-arious description and rheostats, by which means a certain
current can be at all times maintained. To the latter is also fixed
one of Cardew's voltmeters, and Thomson-Houston ammeters, the
whole being in good working order. There are also other measur^
ing and testing instruments, the whole of which I have taken at
£128. The works are in working order throughout.
February 25, 1892. James H. Smith, Borough Surveyor.
Your committee present the following statements, showing the
present income and expenses of the electric lighting company,
the probable increased income by the adoption of the meter system,
and the capacity of the works for extension :
Statement No. 1.— Showing Amount Now Being Earned and
Cost of Working.
Iticome. £ s. d.
Income for year 1891, as per account delivered by
Mr. A. Goodman 1,521 1 3
Deficit 746 9 6
Expenditure. £ s. d. £ s.
£1,897. 2s. 9d. as shown
by the account deli-
vered by Mr. A. Good-
man.
Wages 219 6 3
Salaries 222 14 4
Goal and firewood 738 1 8
Wasteandoil 162 5 4
Carbons 109 13 6
Electrical renewals 86 13 10
Engineering renewals ... 112 15 1
Repairs and renewals ... 25 11 8
Rates and taxes Ill 2 5
Water 71 8 0
Printing and stationery. 13 10 4
Carriage and haulage ... 33 18 10
Sundry trade expenses . . 12 9 11
Sundries 19 2 10
Stamps and telegrams... 8 8 9
1,947 2 9
Less loss on exhibition.. 59 0 0
1,897 2 9
Estimated deductions, payments, etc.,
deduct saving in coal, oil, waste
and water (as per surveyor's report) 200 0 0
Annual pavraent to loans fund in
respect of principal and interest on
purchase £10,000 0 0
Cost of obtaining order, etc 342 0 0
Cost of oil filter 25 0 0
Smoke consumer, diaphragm in
chimney, and pumping apparatus,. 133 0 0
10,500 0 0
Discount on issue of stock 682 0 0
£2,267 10 9
d. £ 8, d.
1,697 2 9
Total capital £11,182 0 0
to be repaid in 30 years, annual payment 570 8 0
£2,267 10 9
Statement No. 2. — Showing the Amount which would be Earned
with the same Consumption of Energy, if Supplied to the
Present Consumers by Meter, at 6d. per Board of Trade unit.
Income. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d.
'31 street lamps at £22.
10s. each 697 10 0
41 arc lamps at £10 each 410 0 0
1,107 10 0
500 incandescent lampe
at 6d. per unit (aver-
age three hours) 817 10 0
One continuous machine
at 6d . per unit (average
four hours) 173 0 0
990 10 0
2,098 0 0
Rent of meters 50 0 0
Deficit 146 0 9
£2,293 0 9
Expenditure £ s. d. £ s. d.
Working expenses as per statement
No. 1 1,697 2 9
Annual payment to loans fund in re-
spect of principal and interest as per
statement No. 1 570 8 0
Ditto ditto cost of meters, £500, repay-
able in 30 years 25 10 0
595 18 0
£2,293 0 9
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 18, 1892.
287
Statement No. 3.— Showing the Capacity for the Production of
Current without Extra Enj^nea or Dynamos.
Income* £ a. d. £ a. d.
72 arc lamps (31 public, 41 private) ... 1,107 10 0
13 extra ditto for street lighting at
present contract price— viz., £22.
lOs. per liunp per annum 282 10 0
Five private ditto at £10 each 50 0 0
1,440 0 0
500 incandeacent lamps by meter, at
6d. per unit 817 10 0
800 extra ditto, at 6d. per unit 1,308 0 0
One continuous machine as above 173 0 0
2,298 10 0
Rentof meters 60 0 0
£3,788 10 0
Expeiuliture, £ s. d. £ s. d.
vVorking expenses as per statement
No. 1 1,697 2 9
Additional coal, etc., necessary for
increased supply of energy, say 200 0 0
1^897 2 9
Payment to loans fund in respect of
principal and interest as per state-
ment No. 2 595 18 0
Additional capital required for
extension of works — wires,
tubes, new lamps, and posts £1,000
Extra transformer 120
1,120
Add discount on issue of stock 80
£1,200
to be repaid in 30 years 60 0 0
655 18 0
Profit 1,235 9 3
£3,788 10 0
Statement No. 4. —As Statement No. 3. excepting Light to be
Charged at a Lower Rate.
Income. £ s. d. £ s. d.
44 arc lamps for public lighting at £20
per lamp per annum 880 0 0
46 arc lamps (private) at £10 each 460 0 0
1,340 0 0
1,300 incandescent lamps at 4^d. per unit 1,594 2 6
One continuous machine, at 4^d. per unit 129 15 0
Rent of meters ... 50 0 0
£3,113 17 6
Expenditure. £ s. d.
Working expenses, as per statement No. 3 1,897 2 9
Payment to loans fund as above 655 18 0
Profit 560 16 9
£3,113 17 6
Wm. M. Chapman, Mayor,
Chairman of Finance Committee.
H. J. Van Trump, Alderman, Chairman of Watch,
Lighting, and General Purposes Committee.
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
KENSINGTON AND KNIGHTSBRIDGE ELECTRIC LIGHTING
COMPANY.
The fifth ordinary general meeting of this Company was held at
1, Great George-street, S.W , on Thursday evening, 10th inst.,
Mr. Granville K. Ryder, chairman, presiding.
The report having been taken as read,
The Chalrmaii said it would be seen that the Company had
made very substantial progress during the last year. They had
jumped from 25,535 lamps to 38,408— an increase of 12,873. The
number of hou83s and shops lighted had increased from 291 on
December 31, 1890, to 436 on December 31, 1891— an increase of
145. There had been an increase in the capital account of
£21,780 -viz., £13,350 in preference shares, and £7,930 in 4} per
cent, debentures. That £21. 780 had been laid out in this way : mains
and improvements, £8,000 ; plant, £7,500 ; batteries, £4,200 ;
instruments and meters, £1,200 ; buildings, £1,000. The renewal
account stood last year at £1,398. 14s. Id., and had been in-
creased in the vear — he was dealing with 1891 — to £1,713. 5s.
A satisfactory feature of the accounts was that the production
of electricity, which in 1890 cost £2,915. 8s. 8d., had last
year cost only £4,067. Whereas in 1890, with nearly £3.000
spent on production, they only made a profit of £1,404;
last year, with an increase in the cost of production of only
£1,000, they had increased their profits to nearly £4,000,
Therefore, an increased cost of only one-fourth had produced
between two and three times more profit. He thought they might
fairly sav that, taking the accounts generally, they were satisfoc-
toi^. They could have wished that they had had more business.
TluB was the only point upon woicb they were rather
disappointed. They expected to have got up to 40,000
lamps, whereas they had only arrived at 38,408. Since
that time (December. 1891) the number of lamps had in-
creased by about 1,000, but had not reached 40,000. What
was quite clear from these figures was that there was a very good
future of profit in the Company, and that a large proportionate in-
crease of profit might be expected from every increase of business.
This was exemplified by some figures which the Secretary (Mr.
Erskine) had worked out, showing how much out of the 8d. per
unit charged by the Company the costs of every kind came to.
He (the Secretary) found that for last year the costs amounted to
5^d. out of every 8d. leaving a profit of 2id. ; whereas in 1890 thecosts
were 6^d. out of 8d. Thus they had gained Id. out of every 8d., as
compared with the preceding year. This showed the potentiality
of profit in the Company. As to the gross revenue to be oerived from
each lamp, he was able to put it at lOs. for the year preceding the
last (1890), but, they found now that it was no more than 9s. It was
difficult to say* what might be the cause of this. His own impres-
sion was that the public were getting more used to the electric
light, and knew better how to treat it. A new customer burnt the
light in a harum-scarum way all over the house, but after the first
quarter's bill found it necessary to be more economical, and the
amount of current he consumed had fallen considerably. It took
customers some time to get out of the gas habit and into the
electric light habit. At the same time he was not dissatis-
fied with the result, because, after all, everything that tended
to cheapen electric light was to their interest, and though
they were not making so much out of it temporari^,
ifc was much more likely to become the light of the future
if cheapened in every possible way. Witn regard to the
capital account, it was the object of the Directors to keep this
down as much as possible. In a company of this kind, however, it
was impossible to progress without constantly getting fresh capital,
and the great point was not to get it unless they could see their
way to make a profit on it. As far as this year wan concerned, it
did not seem likely that they would want more than £14,(X)0 or
£16,0(K). They wanted capital for main extensions, and for more
new plant at both stations, but to no great extent. He then
moved the adoption of the report and accounts.
This was seconded by Mr. O. H. HopklnMm.
In answer to several (questions and criticisms, the Cbatmuui
said that he quite agreed it would be an advantage to show in the
accounts the number of units sold, and this should be done on
future occasions. He thought they hai made a very good start,
and did not see how they could jump to dividends at once in a
business of that kind. They could not get the whole of London
to reconstitute its lighting at once. During the last year they had
made very great advances. Almost all the shops in the Brompton-
road were using the electric light now. With a very small increase
in their working expenses they could now get a much larger profit.
The Directors had not taken anv fees, and ne thought the salaries
were noc at all high. They had two stations, and a more or less
scientific staif, who must be paid, and he thought £886 was by no
means an excessive amount. The law charges were considerably
increased by their having to petition against several BUls in
Parliament. The £5,353 against sundry debtors represented the
consumers' bills for the last quarter (Christmas) which was a heavy
one. That Company would not bear the whole of the expenses in
the Lane Fox case, because it was being fought by an association.
He then put the resolution, which was carried unanimously.
The Chairman moved the declaration and payment of a 2 per
cent, dividend on the ordinary shares.
Mr. B. W. Wallaoe seconded, and it was carried unanimously.
On the motion of shareholders, Mr. A. S. Boulton and Sir
Frederick Bramwell were unanimously re-elected directors.
Sir F. Bramwell returned thanks for his re-election, though it
was not usual to do so, in order to answer a shareholder who had
criticised the amount paid away for salaries. The business they were
pursuing required the greatest care and attention. If their lights
failed even for a short time it would do more to discourage the
increase of electric lighting in their districts than any amount of
apathy on the part of thoBO endeavouring to promote it. This
involved their having gentlemen of ability ana thorough trust-
worthiness in every way at their stations, and he was glad to say
they had them. He was ashamed to think of the salaries they had
only been able to pay, which were very low having regard to the
capital of the Company and the work. He was quite content to
go without his fees until the Company could afford to pay good
salaries, but he was not content that the Com()any should employ
gentlemen and not pay them.
On the motion of Mr. Bohwann, the auditors, Messrs. Lovelock,
Whiffin, and Dickinson, were re-elected, and a veto of thanks
accorded to the Directors and Chairman.
COMPANIES' REPORTS.
DIRECT SPANISH TELEGRAPH COMPANY.
The report of the Directors for the half-year ended December
31st, 1891, states that the accounts for the hsJLf-year show, after
providing for debenture interest, a balance to the credit of profit
and loss of £5,028. 12s. lid. The traffic receipte show a decrease
of £2,214. 4s. 9d. as compared with those for the corresponding
period of 1890. The falling ofi* in the receipts is chiefly due to the
reduction of rates which the Company had to submit to at the
International Telegraph Conference, held at Paris in 1890, and
which came into force on July Ist last. The working expenset aro
288
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 18, 1892.
£17. 48. 5d. in exoees of those for the corresponding period of last
vear. Of the baUnoe of profit and loss, £2,500 has been put to
the reserve fand, which now amoants to £26,445. Ids. 4d., leaving
£2,528. 12b. Ud. Out of this amount the Directors reoommena
the payment of the dividend at the rate of 10 per cent, per annum
on tne preference shares, and a dividend at the rate of 4 per cent.
per annum <free of income tax) on the ordinary shares, making,
with the previous distribution, 4^ per cent, for the year 1891. A
balance of £31. 13s. 4d. is carried forward.
BUSINESS NOTES.
fllBUhSdleoii Torpedo. — Major-General Alexander H. Elliot,
C.6., and Captain H. F. Twynam have joined the Board of the
European Sims-Edison Electrical Torpedo Company.
Wtional Tolograpli Work* Company. — ^As the result of an
action brought by Mr. Hedges, on behalf of himself anh other
debenture holders, against this company, Mr. Justice North has
appointed a receiver.
City and South London Railway. — The receipts for the week
ending 13th March were £876, against £749 for the correspond-
ing period of last year, being an increase of £127. The receipts
for last week, as compared with those for the week endmg
March 6, show a decrease of £17.
Notloo of KomomL— We are informed that the Metropolitan
Electric Supply Company have removed their offices from 4,
Waterloo-place, S. W., to 17, South-street, Manchester-square, W.,
adjoining their Manchester-square station. On and after to-day all
letters should be addressed to the new offices.
TlM Baotom Telegrapli Company announce the pajrment, on
April 14 next, of interest of ds. per share, less income tax, being
at the rate of 6 per cent, per annum, on the preference shares for
the quarter ended March 31 ; and the usual interim dividend of
2b. 6a. per share on the ordinary shares, tax free, in respect of
profits lor the quarter ended December 31 last.
IMMOlntlon of Paitnenhip. — The partnership between Messrs.
Bamett, Wynne, and Barnard, trading as en^neers, at Walker
Gate, near Newcastle-upon-Tyne, has oeen dissolved bv mutual
consent. All debts due from and to the above firm will be paid
and received by Messrs. R. W. and J. A. Sisson, chartered
accountants, 13, Grey-street, NewcastlCi^ who will also receive
offers for the works and premises at Walker Gate, which are for
immediate sale as a current going concern.
Kensington Court Xlootrio Lighting 'Company.— At a meeting
of the shareholders of this Companv, on Thursday afternoon, 10th
Inst., the Directors, Messrs. A. S. Bolton, G. R. Ryder, and R. W.
Wallace, submitted a report stating that they considered that the
time had arrived when tbis Company, which was practically non-
existent, and which had been merged into the Kensington and
Knightsbridge Electric Lighting Company, should be formally
wound up. A resolution to that effect was submitted to the share-
holders and carried.
Brash Xleetrlenl Snglnooring Company. — The Electric and
General Investment Company invite subscriptions for £125,000 of
4^ per cent, perpetual debenture stock, issuM by the Brush Com-
pany at £1 per cent, premium. The stock is issued for the purpose
of redeeming the existing £75,00() 6 per cent, mortgage debentures
of Uie Company, and ot providing additional working capital.
The subscriptions are payable as follows : £10 per cent, on appli-
cation, £41 per cent, on allotment, and £50 on Ist May, 1892. A
discount of £3 per cent, per annum will be allowed on payment in
full on allotment. The last balance-sheet of the Company showed
a surplus of assets over liabilities of £464,723. The new stock will
operate as a first charge by way of floating security upon the whole
undertaking and property of the Company, present and future,
with the exception of the Vienna undertaking, pending a contem-
plated rearrangement of the Company's interest therein.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1892.
Maboh 7.
4458. An Oloetrodo fnr eloetro-pUting. Reginald William James,
1, Queen Victoria-street, London. (George £llsworth
Qale, United States.)
4464. An nntomatie olootiio loom and enrd-onttlng waehlno.
Henry Boswell Lee and John Clifford Cook, 11, Pratt-
street, Camden Town, London.
4494. nnprovemonta In eleetremngnotie solenoid appaimtns.
Frederick Vilhelm Andersen, 40, Chancery-lane, London.
Maboh 8.
4623. Jtegnlatliig aookotii or lioldera for Inoandeaoent eleotrlo
lampo and other tmnalattwg dorioee. The Ries Electric
Spedalty Company, 18, Fulham-plaoe, Paddington,
London. (Complete specification . )
4024. nnprovemonto In oontroUIng tlM lorom of railway
■Ignal InterloOktng npparatns by tlie apidioatlon of
oiootrieity. William Frederick Burleigh, 40, Chancery-
lane, London. (Complete specification.)
454S. Boetrleal meararing Instmmonts. George Wilson, 1,
IkuV'Vilhu!, AberdMie, Glamorgan.
4576.
4578.
4579.
4586.
4610.
4617.
4691.
470*1.
4758.
4764.
4768.
4773
4779.
4816.
4820.
4841.
49.^.
ImproTomenta In eeoondary iMttoriea. John Vaughan
Sherrin, 77, (%anoery-lane, London.
Improrementa In and relating to applying eaiIMn
fllamento to eleotrlo lampa. Augustus Celanns Carey,
77, Chancery-lane, London. (Complete specification.)
Improvomenta In galvanlo tetterles and battery Uqnlds.
Sally Adolf Rosenthal and John Vaughan Sherrin, 77,
Chanoery-lane, London.
ImproTomenta In magnotle aepamtora fbr oro and
almllar material. Charles Trotter Thompson and
Richard Hawes Sanders, 24, Southampton-buildings,
London. (Complete specification.)
ImproTomenta In eleotrlo gaa-Ugbtlng bumera. George
Franklin Pinkham, 45, Southampton-buildings, London.
(Complete specification. )
Improvemento In elootrloal attaohmento fbr planoa.
Fritz Anton Feldkamp, Jacob Schoenhaar, and Emil
Eduard Lehr, 45, Southampton-buildings, London. (Com-
plete specification. )
Mabch 9.
Improrementa In aeoondary eleotrlo OloOka. Emi
Schweizer. 28, Southampton-buildings, London. ((>>mplete
8i)Ccitication.)
An Improved method of and means f6r eleotrlo wiring.
Reginald Frederick Yorke, 1, Queen Victoria-street,
London.
Maiu^h 10.
Improvementa In the method and means of obtaining
eleotrlolty. William Boggett, 34, Southampton-buildings,
London.
Improvementa In Insnlatora flsr eleotrlo wirea. Henry
Harris Lake, 45, Southampton -buildings, London. (Charles
Nash Hammond, United States.) (Complete specification.)
Improvementa In eleotrlo battorloa. Samuel William
Maquay, 55, Chancery -lane, London.
Improvementa In the mannflsotnro of elootrloal oon-
dnotors. Georee Frederick Redfern, 4, South-street,
Finsbury, London. (Sigmund Bergmann, Germany.)
(Complete specification. )
An Improvement oonnoetod with eleotrlo are lamps.
John James Rathbone and James Houghton, 166, Fleet-
street, London.
March 11.
Improvementa In elootrloal oablos. Wallace Fairweather,
62, St. Vincent-street, Glasgow. (Eugene Francis Phillips,
United States.) (Complete specification.)
Improvementa In priinary batteries. Leon Mercky, 226,
High Holborn, London.
Improvementa In the methods of driving eleotrlo railway
trains. Wilfrid L. Spence, The Elms, Seymour-grove,
Manchester.
March 12.
Improvementa In and relating to foslblo ont-onta. Paul
Manchin, 45, Southampton-buildings, London.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1891.
1050. IHstrlbntlng elootrloal energy. De Ferranti.
3127. Sleotrle olronlta. Cruyt.
6243. Clalvanlo batterlea. Marcus and others.
6247. Oalvanlo batteries. Johnson ((rendron.)
21541. Dynamo-elootrlo maohlns Indnotors. Pykeand Harris.
1892.
406. Sleotrle motors, eto. American Elevator Company. (Otis
Bros, and Company.)
576. Eleotrlo heat alarm. Fitzpatrick. (Electric Heat Alarm
Company.)
638. Telophonlo switohing appllanoes. Rabbidge.
825. Sleotrle oables. Fairweather. (Phillips. )
1143. Sleotrle elevators, eto. American Elevator Company. (Otis
Bros, and Company )
1147. TOlophonos. Newton. (Rabbidge.)
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Brush 0>
— Pref.
India Rubber, Gutta Percha k Telegraph Co.
Honse-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Electric Construction
Westminster Electric
.1
Liverpool Electric Supply
{
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PiOd.
Wednes
day
8|
10
5
^
—m
0
5
H
H
It
s
4|
10
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—
6|
5
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S
3
THE ELECrRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 25, 1892.
NOTES.
Transfbrmer Ftres. — A house has been burnt down
at Melun (France) through a faulty tranaformer.
Elmore Process.— The ElmorB works at Dives have,
it is stated, recently produced 3CK) tons of copper without
fault.
Paris - Brassels Telephone. — The works on the
third circuit of the Faris-BrusseU telephone are nearing
completion.
Pbysicol Society.— Mr. R. W. Paul is to read a paper
before the Physical Society at the meeting this (Friday)
afternoon on "Some Electrical Instruments."
Steatite Insulators.— ^The lava electric insnlatora
made by the Steward Company, of Chattanooga, are made
from crude steatite mined in the neighbourhood.
Belgian Telephones. — It ia officially announced that
the Belgian telephone system will be taken over by the
Government on Jan. 18 next. A great extension of the
lines ia in contemplation.
Wigan. — At the meeting of the Wigan Gas Committee
last week, the town clerk reported that the powers of the
Corporation to supply electricity under the Wigan electric
lighting order, 1890, expire in August next,
Basingstoke. — The Urban Sanitary Authority are
inviting tenders for lighting the borough by electric light.
Tenders are to be sent in by the 30th April. Further
particulars will be found in our advertisement columns.
Wolverhampton Tramways. — The Wolverhampton
Town Council, on the recommendation of their General
Purposes Committee, have withdrawn their consent to the
use of steam on the tramways of the Midland Tramways
Company.
Phonopore. — Trials, having satisfactory results, have
Ijeen recently carried on with the phonopore tel^aph
between Lausanne and Villeneuve on tbe Jura-Simplon
line. It is stated that the company will probably adopt
the system.
Xiceds. — A correspondent writing to the Leaii Mrrcurij
notices that a new gasholder is to be erected, and wishes to
know, when the electric light is to be introduced, whether
this would not cause the erection of mora gasholders to be
a waste of ratepayers' money.
Nottingham. — The Town Council require a resident
engineer in connection with the carrying out of their
provisional order. A salary of X300 per annum is offered
to an experienced man, and aitpltcations for the jjost should
be sent to the town clerk by the 16th April.
Heokmondwlke <Yorbs.>. — At tbe meeting of the
Heckmondwike Board of Health last week, tbe minutes of
the Electric Lighting Committee, empowering Mr.
Eutchinson, C.E., to go fully into the estimates and report
upon tJta matter to the committee, were approved.
"Jtv Submarine Cable. — A contract has been con-
cluded between the Java Government and the Eastern
Extension Telegraph Company for the laying of a cable
between Olebleh and Labuan Deli. By this means direct
telegraphic communication between Acheen and Batavia
will be secured.
Chiswloll. — At the last meeting of the Chiswick Local
Board the Works Committee recommended, with reference
to the Chiswick electric lighting order, that the clerk be
inatructed to bring up at the next meeting of the committee
a draft advertisement inviting applications for taking over
the provisional order.
Owd». — This ii the name of a new American town
with 8,000 inbabitantt, which haa sprang up in a few
months, owing to Mr. N. 0. Creedo's diaoorery of nlTtr.
The place ia already lighted by electricity from a plant
which waa in operation within fire days of the ground
being taken for building.
Tnumnls^on of Powor. — The spinning factory of
the Qebrader Zoppritx in Mergelstettin ia now worked by
electrical power derived from water power at a distance of
1-4 kilometres from the mill. It ia said to be working
excellently. The plans were carried oat by the firm
Schuckert and Co., of Nuremberg, and J. M. Voith, of
Heidenheim.
Jamaloa Cables. — A Dalriel's telegram from New
York, March 17, says : " Advices received here to-day from
Kingaton, Jamaica, dated March 8, state that the Halifax
and Bermuda Cable Company has made a propoaal to the
Jamaica Government for an extension of its Unas to
Jamaica vi& Turk's Island. Tbe company demand an
annual subsidy of £2,000."
Aston Uaiuw (BlrmlnKham). — The following remit
of tenders is given in this week's Contrad Jmmal : " For
complete electric installation at baths and public offices, for
the Aston Manor Iiocal Board (Mr. W. A Daviea,
A.M.LC.E., Aston Manor, engineer) ; Fowler and Lancaster,
Birmingham, £1,694 (accepted) j Verity and Son, Bir^
min^ham, £1,661. 7s. 6d."
Rotary Cnrreat. — Prof.W.£tler,of EssIingeQ,describei
and illustrates in the EleUro-tecKnischt ZeUichrift for March
11 a simple arrangement for demonstrating rotary current,
consisting of two cells, a current direction changer, and a
stand with two coils wound at right angles and rotatory
armature. Ezperiments with a rotary field can be eanly
carried out with this apparatus in a laboratory.
Perth Tramways. — The Perth and District Tram-
ways Company has been issued with a capital of £15,000
in £6 shares, for constructing tramways in Perth and to
New Scone. The company is applying for a provisional order,
the QBcetsary consents having been obtained. It is intended
to use electricity as the motive power on the accumulator
system. The cost of plant and construction ia given at
£13,500.
Dover. — At a special meeting of the Dover Town
Council last week Alderman Adcock enquired what pro-
gress had been made with reference to the contract for
electric lighting by the Brush Company. The town clerk
said he hoped to be able to submit a communication to the
committee next meeting. Alderman Adcock said they did
not waut their streets up in the middle of the season to lay
the wirea.
Folkastons. — At laat week's meetii^ of the Folkestone
Town Council a letter was received &om Mr, Henahaw
Russell, inviting the Corporation to visit the Electrical
Exhibition at the Crystal Palace. Alderman Banks proposed
that the Mayor should take them up, and eutertain them
for the day. It would only cost £40. Councillor Puraey
seconded, amidat laughter. We do not bear that the
Mayor agreed.
SyAsey Teohaioal Oolles*. — The Minister for
Public Instruction, New South Wales, has appointed Mr.
Arthur G. F. Webb, M.I.E.E., to be lecturer on electrical
engineering at the above collegs. Mr. Webb, who was
formerly with Prof. George Forbes, is technical assistant
to Mr. £. C, Cracknell, su|)erintendent of Government
Tel^rapha, New South Wales, and has charge of tbe
technical school attached to that department.
Board of Trade Roles. — At the meetiug of tbe
Commisaionen of tiewera on Tuesday, the dack. tvm^ «
290
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 25, 1892.
k
letter received from the Board of Trade asking if the Com-
missioners had any observations to make in respect to the
rules, which they enclosed, for the regulation of the public
safety in the nutter of electric lighting. It was resolved
to refer this communication to the Streets Committee, Mr.
Preece, Colonel Haywood, and the other ofScers.
Crystal Palace Smoking Concert. — ^A smoking
concert is to be held to-night (Friday) at 8 p.m., at the
Crystal Palace, in the Grand Saloon. Captain Henshaw
Bussell will take the chair. An excellent programme has
been arranged by the stewards, and a fine selection of songs
and music, ranging from " Ora Pro Nobis " and Wieni-
awski's mazurka to " Ta-ra-ra " — but we needn't finish —
will be given. The concert promises to be a great success.
Edinbnrgli Tramways. — The Leith Corporation
have had before them the question of co-working of
the Edinburgh tramways. During the discussion a letter
was read from the agents of the Edinburgh Tramways
Company intimating the withdrawal of the clauses autho-
rising the construction of cable lines or electric traction.
A conference of the towns interested was held on Tuesday,
and it was decided that it was necessary for the tramways
to be worked as one concern.
Bamsley. — At the Barnsley Town Council meeting on
Tuesday, the Park and Lighting Committee reported the
receipt of a further report on electric light in the provinces
from the borough surveyor, and their intention to visit
Bradford for the purpose of inspecting the electric light
plant there. Mr. Baley asked if the committee proposed
to bring the electric light to the town. Mr. Haigh said
that was more than he could tell, but the visit to Bradford
was with the object of making a recommendation to the
Council.
Anstralia. — ^Electricians may expect a spurt presently
in lighting business in Australia, thinks the Melbourne
BuUding and Engineering Journal, as many of the country
municipalities are seriously considering the advisability of
lighting their towns by electricity. At Kiama business is
to be done, and in the Shoalhaven district generally there
is a forward movement in this matter. It speaks volumes
for the advance of this business, that towns adjacent to
inexhaustible coal supplies should prefer electricity for
lighting purposes.
Liverpool Mains. — It will be remembered that a short
time since explosions occurred in several of the boxes con-
taining electric wires underneath the paving of certain
streets in Liverpool. Major Cardew was recently sent down
by the Board of Trade to make an examination. A copy
of his report to the Board on the subject was submitted on
Monday to the Watch Committee. This provoked a great
deal of discussion. Ultimately the city engineer was in-
structed to make an inspection of the street boxes, and
present a report to the committee.
Sonthend Pier Tramway. — ^At the last meeting of
the Southend Local Board, the Pier Committee submitted
a letter from Messrs. Crompton and Co., expressing their
willingness to inspect the pier electric plant five times
during the season, and once in the interval, and give a
written report after each inspection, for the sum of £21
per annum. These terms were agreed to. The Pier Com-
mittee also recommended that Messrs. Crompton snd Co.
be requested to supply and fix an electricity meter at the
pavilion, at the amount of their estimate — viz., £15.
Cable Machinery. — ^A class of machinery that will
naturally tend to increase under the present extension of
electric lighting is that of cable machinery. A special
department of the well-known electrical engineers, Messrs.
Johnson and Phillips, is devoted to this class of work, and
iuaongat otter hurge works fitted by them for the manufac-
ture of insulated cables and wires and vulcanised rubber
leads have been the cable works at Milan, the works at
Calais recently started, and a new factory which is being
established at Orammont, in the South of France.
Leeda Electric Tramways. — ^The electric tramways
to Roundhay Park, Leeds, are working in a satisfactory
manner. Since the lines were opened, some four months
ago, upwards of 200,000 passengers have travelled on the
two routes, and the comfort and ease of travelling gives
general satisfaction. It is proposed to extend the Beckett-
street line along York-street to Kirkgate Market, in the
heart of Leeds. This extension will prove very useful,
and the probabilities are that other extensions may follow
as the advantages of the system are more fully recognised.
Sonthport. — At a special meeting of the Southport
Town Council, held on Tuesday evening, the following
resolutions re electric lighting scheme were adopted
unanimously : " 1. That the installation be fixed at or near
the present gas works, and be worked on the high-tension
alternating-current system. 2. That plans for the necessary
buildings and plant be prepared as soon as possible.
3. That Mr. G. Wilkinson, of London, formerly of South-
port, be appointed engineer for the work, his inclusive
remuneration to be at the rate of 3 per cent on the
outlay."
Oas Engines in Central Stations. — A curiously
mixed up combination of gas and electricity has been
recently started in a town in Connecticut. The makers of
the Otto gas engines in Philadelphia have constructed for
the gas company of the town referred to, two 100-h.p. gas
engines — the largest yet made in America. Three of these
engines are to be coupled on a single shaft to drive dynamos
in the gas company's central electric lighting station. The
engines are to have two cylinders, one above the other,
working upon a single crank, and the gas for driving is to
be producer-gas.
Derby Deputation. — Last week a deputation from
the Corporation of Derby, accompanied by the Mayor, Mr.
Alport, and the Lighting Committee of that town, also
their consulting electrical engineer, Mr. H. Graham Harris,
visited Bath for the purpose of inspecting the electric
lighting arrangements. After being shown over the works
by the company's chief engineer, they expressed themselves
much pleased with the general arrangements both for public
and private lighting, and also thanked the directors for
their kindness in allowing them to inspect the machinery.
The deputation paid a second visit to the works the next
morning.
SerpoUet Steam Engine. — The instantaneous steam
heater of MM. SerpoUet Fr^res, mentioned in these
columns about a year ago, has been very successfully
applied, it seems, to the driving of carriages and the
running of small dynamos. Water is pumped into very
solid pipes, the sides of which are pressed together, leaving
but a very narrow interior passage. The coiled pipes are
heated in a special furnace, and the generation of steam is
instantaneous. For certain situations the SerpoUet steam
engines, like Mr. Pitman's " Demon " water motors, might
have useful application for providing power quickly on a
small scale.
Leieester Retase Destmetor. — We notice that a
contract has been awarded to Messrs. J. E. Johnson, of
Highcross-street, Leicester, at £5,943 for the erection of a
refuse destructor, with engine and dynamo house, for the
Leicester Sanitary Committee ; Mr. K G. Mawbey,,C.E.,
borough surveyor. We have pleasure in callin^itCEention
to this use of the waste heat of the destructor /rfor electric
lighting. If we remember aright, this is not the/^t example
T&E ELECtRldAL ENGtNEteR, l^ARCfi 25, 1892.
^91
of the production of electric light by the same means in
Leicester, another destructor having been fitted with a
dynamo and engine, under the superintendence of Mr.
Mawbey, some time ago.
lAege University.— The Montefiore Electrotechnical
Institute of the University of Li^ge has issued a pro-
spectus of the courses, which is particularly interesting
to electrical engineers and those wanting to send their
sons abroad. The classes include very complete courses in
electrical engineering (in French), the fees being 220f.,
240f., and 270f., (about £9, £10, and £11) for the first,
second, and third year's course, with a small extra fee for
examination. A large number (17) of distinct nationalities
are represented out of a total of 205 students, five students
only being English. The prospectus can be obtained on
application to the secretary, 31, rue St. Gilles, Li6ge.
Oil Transformers.— The Thomson-Houston Company
are now making oil transformers in six standard sizes, from
12 to 150 lights capacity. The containing cases are sealed
hermetically after the oil is poured in, and a separate box
is used to contain the switch and main fuse. B^ch 1,000-
volt transformer is tested to 5,000 volts alternating.
Another safeguard adopted is the grounding of the core :
the sheet-iron plates are insulated from the iron casing,
and a ground wire is attached to the core plates. This is
to protect against lightning. With the core thus grounded,
a lightning discharge is conducted to earth, and the insula-
tion which had been pierced is immediately closed by the
oil in the transformer.
Buchanan Castle. — Messrs. Drake and Gorham are
now engaged in introducing the electric light at Buchanan
Castle for the Duke of Montrose. The current is to be
obtained from water power, for which purpose a head of
nearly 90ft. is available. The water will be conveyed in
pipes to the lowest point, at which the turbine and dynamo
will be placed. From this spot the current is conveyed up
the hill to the Castle by means of a simple system of
troughs laid amongst the shrubs. This system of con-
ductors has been introduced by Messrs. Drake and Gorham
as the result of the experience they have gained at Lord
Armstrong's, where it has been employed for some years
past. It is not only readily accessible, but is much cheaper
than any other method.
Leicester. — There does not seem to be much chance of
the establishment of the electric light by the Corporation in
Leicester just at present. The last we heard about this
town was that a proposal was before the Town Council for
the establishment of several small stations at various points
for the production of electric light by means of gas engines.
In answer to a question at the last Town Council meeting,
Councillor Billings said the Gas Committee felt that electiic
light was so hedged round with patents, and it had proved
so unsatisfactory and unprofitable to public bodies who
had adopted it, that they considered waiting was the
safest plan. They would have to adopt the electric light
and they intended to adopt it, but they wished to postpone
it for a little at present.
€h>rdon Closed-Condoit Tramway. — Negotiations
to place the Gordon electric tramway system on a sound
financial basis have been in progress for some time, and are,
we believe, coming to a satisfactory point. Practical tests
are being undertaken by a well known electrical engineer,
and if theresults come up to those obtained by the inventor,
we may hope to see the system brought prominently
forward shortly. We are aware that the Thomson-
Houston Company have spent some thousands on experi-
menting with conduit systems, closed and open, without
success, but Mr. Gordon seems to have tackled the subject
in quite a different manner to any hitherto brought forward,
and we should certainly be pleased to see his system
proved to be a practical method of running cars.
An Electric Mail Car. — One novelty in the way of
electric traction on the St. Louis and Suburban Railway,
now in successful operation in St. Louis, says the
Scientific American, is the application of electric
motors to a United States mail car, which makes regular
trips over the entire line, distributing and collecting
the mail at the different railway stations, as is done on
steam railways. This car is of the same length as an
ordinary steam railway mail car, and is equipped with
double trucks with 36in. wheels, a Thomson-Houston motor
of 15-h.p. capacity being connected to each truck. A very
high speed is attained, and the delivery and collection of
mail is made without stopping the car, as in steam service.
Bleotrio Carriages. — An electric road carriage has
been built in Boston, U.S., and attains a speed of 10 to 15
miles an hour on the level. The motor is mounted
centrally on the front axle, with the armature above and
parallel to the axle. On each end of the armature shaft is
a crank disc, from which extend connecting-rods to clutches
below the axle, these clutches being mounted on short
shafts revolving beneath the axle, having pinion gearing to
the hub of the wheel. The motor runs at 1,000 revolutions
at 40 volts, current being supplied by storage cells. The
carriage has been built entirely in Boston. Mr. £. D.
Chaplin is the inventor of the motor and gearing. Dr.
Orazio Lugo's storage batteries are used, and the enterprise
is carried on by the Electric Road Carriage Company, of
95, Milk-street, Boston, Mass.
Kennedy Alternate-Current Motors. — A paper on
a new system of electrical distribution in towns and cities
was read on Tuesday by Mr. Rankin Kennedy, of Carntyne
Electric Works, the inventor of the system, before tbe
Institute of Shipbuilders and Engineers at Glasgow. Electric
motors and transformers were shown in action. The
system has for its object a comprehensive scheme of distri-
buting electrical energy over large towns economically, and
of providing a supply of such a nature that it will be safe and
useful for all purposes to which electricity may be applied.
The motors can be worked without commutators or
brushes, and therefore without sparking, and no attendance
is required. The system is a multiphase system of alter-
nating currents, and Mr. Kennedy can supply a continuous
current from special converters, and claims all the advan-
tages attendant upon the use of both alternating and
continuous currents from one common generating station
Bdinbnrgh Deputation at Glasgow. — A deputa-
tion of the Town Council of Edinburgh, consisting of
Bailies Macpherson and Dunlop, and Messrs. Kinloch
Anderson, Colston, and Robertson, visited Glasgow Ust
week in connection with the proposed lighting of the city
by electricity. The object of the deputation was to ascer-
tain what had been done up to the present by the Corpora-
tion of Glasgow with reference to electric lighting ; and
the points upon which they particularly wished to be
informed were the system of lighting which had been
adopted and the probable cost of the installation
which the Corporation of Glasgow have just begun
to put down for the lighting of the central area of
the city. The deputation were received at the City
Chambers by members of the Glasgow Gas and Electric
Lighting Committee, along with Mr. Foulis, gas engineer,
and Mr. Arnot, electrical engineer. Full information was laid
before the deputation as to the various details of the
Glasgow scheme of electric lighting.
Bleotrie and Cable Railways. — In the House of
Commons on Monday, Mr. Whitmore moved : " That the
resolution of the House of March 1, relative to electric
292
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, litARCH 25, 1892
and cable railways (metropolis), which was ordered to be
oommunicated to the Lords, and the message from the
Lords of March 7, signifying their concurrence in the said
resolution, be read ; that the said Select Committee
appointed to join with a committee of the Lords do consist
of five members, to be nominated by the Committee of
Selection ; that a message be sent to the Lords requesting
their lordships to appoint an equal number of lords to be
joined with Uie memlbers of this House." The motion was
agreed to. — On the motion of Mr. Kimber, on Tuesday, it
was agreed that it should be an instruction to the Joint
Committee of the Lords and Commons relative to electric
and cable railways (metropolis) that, as regards any schemes
for which Bills have been deposited, they should have
power to hear the parties promoting any such Bill before
reporting whether it should be not proceeded with.
Proposed New Padflc Cable. — The following note
is from the Melbourne Argus^ February 15, 1892 : " Sydney,
Sunday. — The Premier states that, in common with other
colonial Governments, New South Wales has been asked to
subsidise an independent cable service which should start
from Gladstone in Queensland, and go thence to New
Caledonia, Fiji, Samoa, Honolulu, and then either to San
Francisco or Canada. The French Government, according
to Mr. Dibbs, have agreed to subsidise the lines as far as
New Caledonia, the English Government as far as Fiji, and
the Grerman Government as far as Samoa is concerned.
The money necessary to lay the cable has already been
subscribed, and it is only asked that a small amount of
business should be guaranteed by the colonies. Mr. Dibbs
views the proposal with favour, and will notify the pro-
moters to-morrow of the readiness on the part of this colony
to give the guarantee asked for." It was stated in a note
in our issue of February 19, from telegraphic information,
that New South Wales had agreed to grant a small subsidy,
but that Victoria was unwilling to do so.
Death by Klectrio Shook. — Dr. Walter Buchanan,
in the Lancet for March 19, gives an account of the
po9t-martem appearences in a victim of electric shock,
evidently the unfortunate man at Chatham. He saw the
patient 10 minutes after the accident. Artificial respira-
tion was resorted to, but death occurred after three inspira-
tions. In conjunction with Drs. Voysey, Holroyd, and
Bums he made a post-mmtem examination 31 hours after
death. Dr. Buchanan says, after giving technical details,
which showed an entire absence of disease and general
congestion : " We particularly noticed the tarry condition
of the blood, as it has been stated that this is caused by the
action of the electric current on the red blood corpuscles.
The auriculo-ventricular rings were no doubt enlarged by
muscular contraction. The cause of death was evidently by
asphyxia. The case is interesting, as we get very limited
evidence of deaths from electricity. In those occurring
from lightning coroners rarely engage the services of
medical men, and far more rarely order a post-mortem
examination, taking other evidence for granted."
Leonard's Sleotrio Ufta. — Mr. H. Ward Leonard's
system of running electric motors by varying the current
as the torque and the E.M.F. as the speed, has recently
been successfully applied to electric lifts. The work-
ing of lifts and cranes usually involves problems of a
nature distinct from other applications, and Mr. Leonard's
object is to vary the speed of the lift without vary-
ing the rotary effect of the armature as long as the
weight is not varied, and also to enable the speed and
direction of movement to be controlled from the lift itself.
The motor is mechanically connected to the lift and the
connections are so made as to keep the strength of field
constant, the speed being varied by varying the KM.F. by
a controlling device on the lift ; this switch also serving to
reverse the motion by reversing the field magnet of the
generator. By this arrangement the motor has the same
efSciency at different speeds and the same torque at
different speeds if the weight remains the same. As the
field is kept constant no sparking occuHb, and the reversal is
accomplished when the current is at a minimum — after
having been gradually reduced, it is reversed and then
increased to the amount desired.
Sarth's Blagnetism. — The theory of Mr. Henry
Wilde, F.R.S., upon the earth's magnetism, and the devia-
tion of the magnetic poles from the true geological poles,
is discussed by Prof. Frank H. Bigelow in the Amerkan
Meteorological Journal for January. Mr. Wilde's theory is
that the interior of the earth, still in a liquid condition,
revolves about the axis the earth had in its infancy, while
the crust, jerked round at the time of the formation of the
moon, has a different axis of rotation, skewed over
23^eg. The inner mass he regards as electro-dynamic,
and the outer sheet as electro-magnetic. A machine com-
posed of one sphere within the other, both encircled with
coils of wire, with magnetised sheet iron at the places
representing the ocean, and the inner and outer shells
rotating 2d^eg. apart, reproduce, it is declared, every
known variation of magnetism of which there is record.
Dr. Charles A. Schott, of the U.S. Coast Survey, informs
Prof. Bigelow that he has magnetic variation records, of
which Mr. Wilde was evidently ignorant, in which the
theory still holds good. The period of time for one complete
secular change is 960 years, which agrees with Sir
William Thomson's values. The only doubt that occurs is
whether the earth's centre is liquid, but Mr. Wilde con-
siders this theory " to be as firmly established as that of
the rotation of the earth on its axis."
IfOndon Snbways.— The London County Council's
Bill for controlling underground subways was before a
Select Committee of the House of Commons on Tuesday,
presided over by Mr. Herbert Gladstone. Mr. Littler,
Q.C., in opening, said the Bill was promoted to obtain
control of all subways for the reception of pipes at present
laid beneath the suiface of the road. The nuisance which
the frequent breaking up of the London roads was to
trafSc would hardly be credited by the committee. At
present there were only nine streets in London which
had these subways beneath the surface. When the
subways were first made there was a great outcry as
to the dangers that would arise from gas explosions
and the bursting of water mains, but in no single
case in London had any accident arisen. The difficulty,
however, was to get gas and water companies to use the
subways. The Council, therefore, asked by this Bill for
powers to bring about their more effectual use by com-
pelling companies, under certain conditions, to remove
their pipes into the existing subways. Mr. Binnie, engineer
to the County Council, gave evidence in support of the
Bill, and expressed the decided opinion that it was an
unfounded fear on the part of the electrical companies that
any danger existed from placing their pipes near gas-pi[)es.
During the further cross-examination of Mr. Binnie clauses
were agreed to with the London water companies, who
thereupon withdrew from further opposition. The com-
mittee adjourned till next Monday.
Olasffow Central Statioa. — The Town Council have
accepted tenders for the excavator and steel and iron work
required in the erection of their central station at the
comer of Waterloo and Mains Streets. Mr. Porter has the
formei at £7,182. 15s. lid., and Mr. William Baird the
latter contract at £1,529. 10s. 9d. It is intended in the
first instance to put down plant to supply 12,000 8c p.
TfiE BJLECTlltCAL EUGIN8ER, MARCH 25. 1892.
^3
kuDpe, but the station will be large enoagfa to accommodate
nacfainery for supplying 40,000 lucb lampi. The engines
and dynamos will be erected in £be lower storey of the
building, with the boilers immediately in rear of them.
Five steel boilers of marine type, 10ft. in diameter and
I2ft loDg, will be fixed to start with. The battery-room
wilt be above the boilers, and will contain two sets of 57
cells of 1,000 ampere-bouTB capacity each. Space will be
jirovided tor double this amount of battery storage. The
contracts for engines and dynamos will probably be settled
in a few days. There will be seven Willans engines, two of
80 Lp., two of 150 h.p., and three of 250 h.p., with seven
continuous-current dynamos, two with an output of 400
amperes at 120 volts, two with an output of 500 amperes at
230 volte, and three with an output of 670 amperes at 230
volte. The conductors need will be strips of copper, led
through porcelain insulators, placed in cast-iron troughs.
The troughs and insulators will be made so as to permit of
additional strips being put down without the streets being
distarbed. The specification for the contract provides that
any openings in the public streets shall be closed the same
day on which they are made. It is mentioned that
ponibly some of the streets may he lighted this autumn
from the new station.
Tesla Uotors. — The statement that we made a few
weeks ago, on Mr. Tesla's authority, that 1,000-h.p.
alternate-current three-phase motors were built and
working in America, caused a good deal of surprise
amongst electrical engineers in this country. The
Westinghouse Company, who control the patents, have
been busy for some time past in standardising the sizes of
motors from 1 h.p. to 1,000 h.p., and an illustration of one
of these monster Tesla motors is given in the N.Y. Elec-
trieai Engineer for Kbrch 9, showing a machine about 10ft.
or lift high, judging from the height of the attendant
standing by it. These machines run either as motor or as
generator, and when run as generator will ^ve 150 amperes
at 6,000 volte. In mechanical design this machine is similar
to the multipolar direct-current railway generators built by
the Westinghouse Company. The armature is of the
drum type, with slots for the wire, and is without bands.
At starting the alternate-current motor has inductive resist-
ance, and the loss at starting is thus much less than with
the d]reot.current motors. The Teela motor requires no
commutator, and is consequently sparkless. It may be
boxed up, and thus kept free from dust and grit. The
armatures are wound to give either 60deg. or 90deg. difier-
ence of phase, and are built in two types — those which are
entirely self-exciting and self- regulating, and those which
are separately excited and self-regulating. If the pressure
ie not over 5,000 volts, the current may be supplied direct
from high-tension mains. No starting resistance is required,
and the motor practically requires no attendance. The
smaller siies are small and compact for their power, and
high pressures can be used with them as well as with the
latter sizes. A large extension of the use of alternate-
current motor work is evidently in store for the immediate
future.
Keotiioal TracUan.— At Ibe meeting of the Bradford
SciflDtific Association on the 19th ult. an interesting and
practiral lecture was given by Mr. J. T. Riley, D.Sc., on
" Electric Traction." After describing the construction of
the dynamo and the means of generating current by the
rotation of coils in a magnetic field and the interactions,
the question of motors was gone into, and it was pointed
out that the mechanical power developed by the motor in
watts was equal to the product of the back E.M.F. in volU
by the current forced through in amperes. The back
£.M.F. is proportional to the number of conductors in the
armature, the strength of the magnetic field, and the
speed of rotation. Special attention was directed to the
relation between torque and speed for the various types
of winding. If the motor is fed with currant at a constant
pressure, the series machine has the valuable property of
exerting a large torque at low speeds, while the true
com pound -wound motor, though capable of maintaining
a constant speed, is incapable of exeriiing more than
a certain maximum torque. The large torque at
low speed is a valuable property of the series
motor for traction purposes, since it allows of a large
effort at starting. The racing of the machine at light load
may be corrected by switching resistance into the circuit,
and so reducing the current. The mechanical charac-
teristics of the other types of winding under the same
condition of supply and also under the condition of constant
current were also considered. In any case, the electrical
eEBciency of the motor is the ratio between ita back E.M.F.
and the pressure between its terminals. The lecturer next
described the methods in use for electric ears — overhead,
elevated third rail, conduit, and accumulator systems ; the
construction was described, and the various lines in use
were illustrated by lantern views. The suitability and
economy of the four systems for various conditions of the
road and traffic were also dealt with, together with the
cost of power and maintenance, on those lines in which
electrical traction has had a sufficiently extended trial
The lecture was much appreciated by a large audience.
Water Storas«. — " Prof. Forbes has lately told the
world," says the JouTnal o/ Gas Lighting, " that, in certain
circumstances, water power can be made available to com-
penaatG for the difi'erence between maximum and actual
loaJa, which is such a serious obstacle in the way of the
commercial success of central electric lighting stations. At
the Crystal Palace there are huge elevated reservoire
doing nothing at this season of the year, but used in
summer for supplying the great fountains. Why were
they not employed to demonstrate the possibilities
of turbine-driving tor dynamos, with or without reference
to Prof. Forbea's views 1 Or why was there no arrangement
for transmitting power from the lower lakes in the Palace
grotinds to the Exhibition, either by a repetition of the
FrankfoTt-Lauffen experiment, or otherwise 1 These are
questions very much to the point, for which no satisfactory
answer can readily be obtained. The exhibitors at
Sydenham seem to prefer playing with search-light pro-
jectors, with the illumination of fountains, the display of
inferior imitation fireworks, the cooking of cutlets, and so
on, to seriously tackling any of the known problems of
electric lighting industry." Our gas contemporary is
viciously and wilfully hard upon all and sundry exhibits at
the Crystal Palace Electrical Exhibition simply from the
fact, apparently, that they are electrical. The illumination
of rooms and fountains, and the cooking of chops, and the
brushing of boots, etc., shown in actual work at this
Exhibition, are the very best means of demonstrating the
usefulness of electricity to the popular mind, and will
always be far more interesting to the public even than the
machinery. And who should dspreciate demonstrations of
cooking t Certainly not the gas journals, for it is exactly
such demonstrations with gas that remain the only means
of saving the gas companies' incomes — and even this hope
may be lost to them eventually. With reference to
schemes of distribution by water storage, there certainly is
a fine chance for the demonstration of Prof. Forbes's
system, and our gas contemporary is not alone in its ideas
upon the subject. We may have something further to say
in reference to this interesting subject a little later on,
when perhaps a " satisfactory answer " can be obtained.
294
THE ELECTKICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 25, 1892.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
THE TELEPHONIC EXHIBITS.— II.
The Omientl Kleotilo Company, Umitad, which,
since the expiration of the maeter patents has taken up
telephonic work energetically, exhibits a variety of trans-
mitters, receivers, and accessories. The transmitters com-
pnse a modified Htiunings of considerable efficiency as a
loog^distacce talker ; a two-pencil vertical microphone,
known as the Manchester, suitable for short distances ; and
the latest pattern of Johnson transmitter. Immediately
the Edison patent lapsed, there was a general enquiry for
transmitters calculated to avoid the unexpired secondary
patents, and as Crossley had magnanimously disclaimed any
intentiontochain two-pencil microphones tobis patent chariot
wheels, several inventors tried their hands in this direction,
although as we pointed out last July* there was in reality
no reason why Groasley's multi-pencil microphones should
not be copied ad libitum. Mr. Johnson, of the Sheffield
Telephone Company, had been in the field as early a« 1860
with a two-pencil transmitter of considerable efficiency,
but the legal victory of Edison had compelled him to stop
manufacturing, although not before the Sheffield exchange
had been supplied with a sufficiency of " protected"
instnimenu to keep it going (or a number of years. On
Edison's patent lapsing, Johnson revived hia transmitter
with improvements, and it has already come into extensive
use. The new form is shon n in Fig. 7, which is a plan of
the underside of a pine diaphragm carrying two carbon
pencils, A A', resting in the narbon blocks B, B^, BK The
current enters at the contact, C, splits at B^ between the
pencils, and leaves at C. The speaking is loud and distinct,
and the extreme simplicity and absence of any adjustments
render the transmitter very unlikely to get out of order.
The General Electric Company mount the microphone in a
variety of ways. One of these, a neat and handy table set,
is shown in Fig. 8. The best results are obtained with the
diaphragm inclined at an angle of 28deg.
Another speciality is the intercommunication system for
warehouses and factories recently patented by Mr. T. B. Sloper,
of Devizes. The leading idea of such systems is that where
several stations are in telephonic connection by means
of a wire for each station and a common return, each may
call up any other at will without the intermediary of an
operator, and, when finished, leave the connections right
for any further calls to its own or between the other instru-
ments. Such systems, owing to the amount of wire required,
are not adapted for long distanoes, hut within the limits of
single establishments undoubtedly possess their advantages
and conveniences. In the earlier plans the restoration to
status 'jtto of the necessary pointer switch or commutator
was either left to the talker's recollection or effected automa-
tically hy the act of hanging up the phone. Sloper arranges
his connections so that no special device is necessary for this
purpose ; his stations can be called up in any position of
the pointer. But the most novel feature of hie invention is
the attachment of a secret switch, by using which any two of
the stations can converse together without being overheard
by the others. This is ejected by employing the direct
wires of the two stations as a metallic loop, cutting out the
common return, which can, however, be used simultaneously
by any of the other stations. The secret switch is put out
of operation after conversation by the act of hanging up
the phone. The connections can readily be traced in
Fig. 9, in which P P are the microphone and S S the
secondary circuits; 1, 2, 3, i, the line contacts of the
* Talsphona TrEinsmltter VAt«nta, EUciricat Eiiginur, July 10th,
switches ; M, M, M, M the pointers ; J, J, J, J the secrecy
switches. The contacts marked " spring " are permanent
ones, and prevent the instruments ever being left discon-
nected. The diagram shows an installation of four stations,
two of which are using the secret circuit and two the
common return. The company also exhibits a loud-speaking
receiver for concerts, a variety of switches of ordinary
patterns, telephonic translators, magneto belts, batteries, and
line materials.
Tbe CoDBoUdated Telephone CoDBtmotlon luid
Haintenauoe Company, Limited, the most important
of English manufacturers of telephonic apparatus, has a
varied and excellent exhibit of apparatus, and has adopted
the practical plan of establishing a branch stall in the South
Gallery, in onier that visitors may not only examine, but test
the speaking of the telephones on show. The Gower-Bell,
Blake, and Fitzgerald traiksmitters, for which the company
is noted, together with a variety of receivers, may all be
tried in this way with satisfactory results. ITie worst of
the Consolidated exhibit is that it is mostly made up of
instruments which are so well known that there is nothing
new to be said about them ; they have spoken so often and
effectually for themselves. In this category must be
included the company's system of warehouse intercom-
munication, which was one of the first of its kind,
as it is still one of the best ; the diver's equip-
ment ; and the portable lineman's set. An exception,
ae being exhibited for the first time, is the special trans-
mitter and switch-bell constructed for the Mutual Telephone
Company, of Manchester, the exigencies of whose system
require a departure from the ordinary methods. Switch-
boards are well represented, three different pattema
being shown. One of these, which was designed by Horr
Krause for the Austrian Telephone Company, may he taken
as typical of Austrian switchboards. The workmanship is
good, and much ingenuity has been displayed by Mr.
Graham, of the Consolidated Company, in working out the
details. But here commendation must ce&se. Electromagnets
arc inter [MS ed in ihe talking circuits; ring ofi drops fall
if a subscriber rings, whether he has finished or not, and tbe
movements required to make and then take ofi a connection
are no less than 1 2, twice as many as with Scribner'a single-
cord multiple. Express trains in Austria average 27 miles an
hour, and it would seem that Austrian telephony is making
a worthy effort to live up to them. A plan of the connec-
tions is shown in Fig. 10. The plugs are arranged in pairs,
each pair consisting of a black plug, P, and a white plug,
P\ connected by the flexible cords, C C^, in the circuit of
which is inserted a contact trigger, T, a ring-off drop, D,
and a ringing key, K. Tbe flexible cords of the white
plugs, P', are kept taut by metal weights, W, which, when
the plugs are out of use, establish contact between the
springs, S S^, thereby bringing into play the operators
phone, O, or tbe generator, M, according to the position in
backward or backward gear of the lever, H, which has also
a middle or neutral point. The Austrian system of
switching requires that after tbe called subscriber has been
rung he must ring back, and that the operator shall t«ka
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 25, 1892.
296
« of the fact. This throws a large amount of extra
work on the operator, and in a busv exchange would greatly
delay switching, since if a called subscriber does not
answer instantly his connection must be held in suspense
until be does, and reverted to, perhaps, after several
interim ones have been made. The idea is in sympathy
broai^t about, it is not felt at all. And subscribers, at
least British ones, as experience already proves, not only
do not resent being switched through and left to their own
devices, but, after a little experience, will not tolerate any
other plan. The movements required for this Austrian
board are : 1. Operator plugs into caller's jack with a
with the grandmotherly notions prevalent in some con
tinental countries, where railway travellers, telephone
snburiherB, and others are treated like mere children and
never accorded opportunities of exercising or developing
uiy intelligent initiative. In the telephonic times that are
coming inventors will have to work in an exactly opposite
diiection by seeking to divert work from the operators,
where its concentration occasions severe pressure, to the
■Qbacriben, where, owing to the division of labour thus
black plug, P. 2. Moves lever, H, forward and rings
back to i»ller. 3. Moves lever, H, back and speaks to
caller. 4. Plugs into called subscriber with a white
plug, P'. 6. Moves lever, H, forward. 6. Rings
called aubecriber by pressing key, K. The operation
then ceases until the called subscriber rings back, which
act drops one of the ring-off indicators, B. Operator
then proceeds : 7. Moves trifg^er, T, and leaves subscribers
through. 8. Beplaces caller'a shutter, A. 9. Replaces
296
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 25, 1892.
ring-off Bhutter, D. Theo, when the completiOD of the
convemtion is notified, by the second fallinfc of D : 10.
Releases trigger, T. II. Withdraws plugs. 12. Replaces
D. The Consolidated Company is not, of course, respon-
sible for the system. The second board, also for conti-
nental use, is a small one, intended for the operation of
metallic circuit trunk lines in a single-wire exchange of
considerable size. Each section of the subecnber's board
has one or more junction wires to the trunk board on
which callers for trunk connections are pegged through.
Fw. 10.
The trunk board mechanism is identical with that of the
Austrian board just described, with one additional trieger,
and is open to the same objections of multiplication both
of contacts and labour. An additional ring-off drop is
looped in the talking circuit at the trunk boanl, so that
■peaking must be carried on through the coils of four electro-
moffietA when a trunk line connects two exchanges worked
on this system. If the trunks are of any length, the
instruments employed must be exceptionally good to yield
even passable results under such circumstances. The third
board exhibited is of an altogether different kind, and is
the joint invention of Messrs. Fraeer and Brown, of the
Consolidated Company, although only a modification of the
system of multiple switchboaMs patented in 1889 by Mr.
A. R. Bennett, the principal feature of which is the con-
necting of the multiplied jacks or contacts in parallel
instead of in series. Fig. 11 Is a plan of the connections
for three sections of the Consolidated board. The indicators,
A, consist of two circuits differentially wound, one being
permanently joined to earth and the other to the
contact socket, S^, and its multiplies on the other sections,
which contact sockets are normally insulated from the
earth. The circuits are connected so that an in-coming
current drops the shntter, while an outrgoing current
splits between the circuits and produces no effect.
Fio. 11.
When two lines are switched together there are con-
sequently two leaks to earth at tJie exchange through
one circuit of each of the indicators concerned, the talking
being done through the remaining circuits. The ring-off
drops both indicators. A feature of the board is the plug
used to answer callers, which contains in its haft a smallfinger
key or switch, by means of which the operator can change
from phone to generator with great facility, without the
intervention of the usual separate device. The operations
are as follows : 1. Plugs into caller and speaks. 2. Plugs
into called subscriber and rings. 3. Replaces shutter.
4. Withdraws plugs. 5 and 6. Replaces the two ring-off
shutters. The finger switch helps movementa 1 and 2
materially. The motions required are consequently only
half those wanted for the Austrian board, and might be
further reduced. The weak point of the system appears to
be the want of a proper engaged test. The inventors have
relied on listening by the operator to tell whether a line
asked for is already in use on some other section, but this
is obviously insufficient, as subscribers do nut always talk
incessantly while connected.
THE DIRECTCUBBBNT DYNAMOS.
Those of us interested in the design and manufacture of
dynamos must be gratified to see the excellent machines
now being exhibited at the Crystal Palace.
The improvements made during the last 10 years have
raised the dynamo to a pitch of efficiency seldom, if ever,
met with in other machines. At the time of the first
electrical exhibition at the Palace in 1882 the dynamo
designer had to rely almost entirely on experimental data.
Now, owing to the researches of the Dre. Hopkinson,
Messrs. Kapp, Crompton, Bsson, and other eminent engi-
neers, the theory of dynamo desien has become thoroughly
defined, and the mecluinical details have been perfected.
The design and manufacture of large dynamos present
many peculiar difficulties, in the solution of which German
and English engineers have taken a decided lead, but the
latter have bestowed more care on the attainment of high
efficiency. The machines now on view at the Crystal
Palace show us the methods which the several makers
have adopted in this direction.
We propose accordingly to consider the dynamos ex-
hibited under the following headings :
1. The methods shown of perfecting the electrical
design.
2. The improvements in the mechanical construction.
3. The respective advantages of the various types
represented ; and
4. We shall give a tabulated list roughly showing the
proportions and output of a large number of dynamos. '
Fm. 3.
M
Fio. 2. Fw *.
Improvements in Electncat Design — Armature Reaetiow. —
Messrs. Esson and Swinburne, in their respective painrs
read before the Institution of Electrical Engineers in 1890,
considered carefully the effects of the back and cross
ampere-turns on the armature. The general conclusion
arrived at was that large output dynamos should be multi-
polar.
Bearing out this view, we find that two out of the three
largest dynamos at the Palace are multipolar — viz., those
made by Messrs. Johnson and Phillipe, and Crompton and
Co., respectively. We are also informed that the lai^e
machines the Electric Construction Corporation are making
for the Liverpool Overhead Railway are to be multipolar.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 25, 1892.
297
Faucauli CwrerUs in the Armature Conductor, — These
wasteful eddy currents are produced whenever the
inductioQ through a conductor varies. At the edges of
the pole-pieces parallel to the axis of the armature, the
induction varies rapidly from the maximum value, in the
space between the pole and armature core, to zero ; conse-
quently when the individual conductors pass this point,
they have eddy currents induced in them, Figs. 1 and 2.
These increase with the dimensions of the conductor
probably as the fourth power of the breadth.
There are three general principles underlying all suc-
cessful attempts to reduce these losses. The first is that
of introducing resistance in the path of the induced
currents. The ordinary stranded conductor first used for
facility in winding also effected this. Latterly, lifr. R. K
Grompton has introduced the stranded conductor pressed
into any desired section. The surface of the wires is first
slightly oxidised to increase the resistance between the
adjacent wires in the strands. Some makers have used
strands in which the wires have a thin cotton covering.
Fio. 6.
The following firms show dynamos with these bars in use —
viz., Messrs. Crompton and Co., Limited, Johnson and
Phillips, Siemens Bros, and Co., Limited.
The two remaining methods deal with the shape given
to the iron parts of the dynamos, and it is curious that the
efficacy of the one should be due to an exactly opposite
cause to that of the other. In the first the object is to get
a slow charge of induction through the conductor, and in
the second to make the change extremely rapid. The slow
change of induction at the edge of the pole can be obtained
by shaping the poles in the following different ways : (a)
The polar surface is bored out to a slightlv larger
diameter than required for clearance, and then the
poles are brought nearer together. Fig. 3. Thus the
distance between the core and the pole increases towards
the edge. Messrs. Crompton and Co. show an arc light
dynamo with this arrangement of field, but the prevention
of Foucault currents is not the primary reason for the
Fkj. 6
Ficj. 7.
shape adopted in this machine. (6) The magnets are bored
concentrically with the axis of the armature, and then the
inside of the pole is machined away near the edge. Fig. 4.
(c) Another method is used in those forms of magnets
which require pole-pieces or horns fitted. Then the horn is
made of small section, as shown at A, Fig. 5, so that the
magnetic resistance is high at this point. This prevents a
high^ density at the edge beyond.
With all these three different methods the following
detail will also help to reduce the lo8s — i,e,, making the
edge of the pole not quite parallel to the conductors on the
armature. In this way the full effect of the change of
induction is never acting on the whole length of a con-
ductor at the same instant, and consequently the maximum
E.M.F. producing eddy currents is reduced. The effect of
the cross ampere-turns on the armature is to increase the
induction at the edge of the polar surface from which the
conductors recede, and to weaken the opposite edge. Conse-
quently, to prevent an increase of Foucault currents at full
load, the receding edge should be most shaped in accord-
ance with either of the last two methods.
The second principle of making the change of induction
extremely rajiid is used in the toothed-core armatures
made by Messrs. Easton and Anderson, and also by
Messrs. Goolden and Co. These armatures are an improve-
ment of the old Pacinotti type. In the early machines of
this type the pitch of the teeth in the core was huge, to
enable a number of wires to be wound in each space, r^. 6.
The fluctuation of induction at the polar surface, due to the
distance between the teeth, then produced eddy currents
N
CfCanir""":
Fio. 8.— Position 1.
in the iron. The loss of power caused by these was so
great that toothed armatures were for the time abandoned.
Now the above-named makers use a small pitch, and, as
a rule, wind only one conductor in each groove, Fig. 7.
It is well to consider the action of the teeth by steps. In
the first instance, if the armature were stationary in the
position shown in Fig. 7, there would be little or no in-
duction through the conductor on account of the better
path offered by the projecting iron teeth. But when the
armature has advanced by a distance equal to the pitch,
the lines of force have all crossed the spaces filled by the
copper. The speed at which they cross the path of high
resistance is enormously greater than the circumferential
N
Fio. 9. -Position 2.
speed. As the conductors enter or leave the polar surface,
we may consider that the magnetic lines of force fly across
them in bunches. Considering this bv steps in positions 1
and 2, Figs. 8 and 9, there is practically no induction in the
copper, but at some intermediate point the induction carried
by the advancing tooth rushes across the gap. This rush causes
two equal and opposite KM.F.'s at the beginning and end
of its course, which practically neutralise each other, as
are both acting for an extremely small interval of time.
The result is that we get a small Foucault loss, and in
these recent machines the loss in the poles has been
avoided by using a large number of teeth. It is doubtful,
however, if the type can be successfully extended to
dynamos of large output
398
THE ELECTBICAL ENGINEER, MAEOH 25, 1892.
Lotifs in the Armaiitre Core. — The methoda of pre-
venting undue Iobb of power in the iron cores are now well
understood, and the cast-iron armature core kept cool by
an intornal watercourse is now a relic of tho past. The
maker of this latter machine had hopes of getting per-
petual motion when he saw to what high tero|)cratnr6s bis
ciiculaling water was raised. . The subdivision of the
cores to prevent Foucault currents is now carried out by
all makers. Many of those exhibiting show armatures
unwound, and it ia worthy of note that nearly all build up
the cores of plates. The Gulcher Compau^' use a thin tape
Ain. broad, which must be a decided advantage in the
disc type of armature.
The other cause of heating is due to hysteresis in the
iron. In small machines this is not important, although
the induction used ie high in nearly all designs. With
large armatures the section of iron used is increased, and
the cooling surface increaseH only as the two-third power
of the volume. The result is that with the same induction
the cores get much hotter than those in small dynamos.
Another reason against using such high inductions is that,
the hystereeis loss appreciably reduces the efficiency.
Thus, while in the small machines exhibited, the induc-
tion in the core varies between 14,000 and 21,000 COS.
lines per square centimetre, in the lai^e dynamos the
inductions calculated from the dimensions given to us are as
follows :
CO.S. unit per
sq. ceDlimatre.
Cronplonand Co., 130-kw. dynamo 12,600
,, „ 112-lcw. ,, 13,000
Electric ConttruottOD Corporation, 40-kw. motor 15,000
„ „ ,, lOakw. molor>^DeraUir 16,000
GulcberandCo., 40-kw. dynamo 12,700
JohDSonand Phillips, IRO-kw. dynamo 10,600
"' IS Bros, and Co., 2ie-kw. dynamo 13,000
The Crystal Palace Exhibition may be naturally expected
to bring before the notice of electrical engineers many
improvements in the detail of their work or the apparatus
connected therewith. One of these to which we should
like to direct particular attention this week is a decided
improvement m the containing cells for accumulators,
consieting of large glass cells made upon an entirely new
process by Armstrong's Glass Company, ZJmlted.
of Waterloo^ treet, Birmingham. Before actually describing
their exhibits it may be well to mention the state of the
present manufacture of slass cells. In the first place, the
materials used for accumulator cells are practically limited to
lead, ebonite, and glass. Grloss is preferable to lead wherever
its use is possible for various reasons ; principally that glass
allows the plates to be thoroughly inspected at all times of
charge or discharae, so that no broken or defective plates
are left in the cell; and also that glass is a non-conductor
of electricity, besides not. being attackable by the acid
used, as lead eventually may be. Qlass cells have therefore
long been omployedforaccumuIatorSjbutthereareoneortwo
difficulties which stand in the way of their more extensive
adoption. The cells, as now made, are very uneven in thick
ness, have rounded comers, and are irregular on the bottom
due to the method of production employed, which up to
the present has been the only one possible. But the great
difficultv which stands in the way has been the fact that
glass cells actually could not be made by any process larger
than about 22in. long. Tho improvement brought about
by Armstrong's Glass Company can be realised to be very
great when it is stated that by their newly -introduced process
glass cells can be made with perfectly square cornera and
flat bottoms, the glass being of equal thickness at all parts,
and that cells can be made practically of any size desired.
At the Exhibition a large glass tank, manufactured on their
system, is exhibite<] which is 4ft. 6in. long. This forms
at the present time the largest glass tank in the world, and
it serves as containing cell for one of Cromplon's central
station accumulators. Still larger cells are being bade for the
same purpose, which will be as much as 7ft, 5in. long. These
glass tanks can be used, of course, for all purposes, and the
company is engaged in making various shapes and sizes foi-
use in chemical works.
The ordinary process of making glass cells at present
B practically in blowing a large bottle inside a square
hot iron mould of the size desired. At first the glass is
spherical, but as it touches the sides of the mould the
corners only expand. The corners are therefore much
thinner than the other parts, and, moreover, are never
exactly square. The bottom surface is also usually humped
in the middle, duo probably to air caught under the glass.
This necessiUtes levelling by means of shaped pieces of
wood or other means before the lead accumulator plat«s
will stand evenly.
□
The Armstrone patent process is very different A solid
iron template of the size desired — the size not being
limited — is placed inside a furnace, being previously white-
washed to prevent the glass from sticking. Plates of glass
are placed against the four aides and underneath, previously
cut to the exact size. The whole is heated up gradually
for some hours, and when the glass is at a good red heat
a steel oxy-bydrogen blow-pipe apparatus is introduced
through working holes in the furnace, and the edi;es of the
glass is brought to a state of incipient fusion. The joint
is then rolled by a roller placed at the back of the blow-
pipe jet, and a good weld is thus made. All four sides
and the bottom are fused tt^ether, and the cell left to
gradually cool down and anneal. The result is a perfectly
square-sided glass tank. Cells made on this method are
not more expensive than the ordinary cells ; while for
large-sized tanks they can he made much cheaper than the
competitive tanks made of copper, lead, or other
material. These are being made for electroplating pickling '
tanks and other similar purposes. The patent also pro-
vides for the manufacture of large glass tubes or pipes for
acid works, and, as can easily be seen, opens out an entirely
new field for large glass articles. As an illustration, a tank
has recently been built for chemical use, 5ft. high, Gft. long,
and only l^in. wide — a shape previously quite impossible
of manufacture by any known process. Mr. Armstrong's
process took quite 500 experiments before the conditions of
certain success were accurately determined. The company
has works at Albion, West Bromwich, but ia expected to
require much larger premises almost immediately.
CoDdulta lor Malna
A further invention shown by the same company at the
Exhibition consists of solid glass conduits for electric
undei^round mains. Slabs of glass are made in lengths
from 1ft. to 5ft., having half-round grooves of lin. to 2in.
diameter, which are bedded in pit«h and concrete.
The method is new, and has not been yet practically
tested, but is offered for any electrical engineer
to take up. The process of laying consists in
first digging a trench, laying a trough of concrete, on
which a layer of soft pitch is run ; on this the lower slab is
placed, then the upper slab, breaUng joint. Both are then
run in with pitch, and the concrete trough completed above,
thus forming a solid insulating conduit, in which bare
copper cable for high or low tension can be drawn. We
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 25, 1892.
are uiublo to express any opiDion u to its eleotrical ijuali-
ties in the abeence of practical teBta, but the conduit is
economiDol to construct, only cheap materials being
employed, and the proposed use of bare copper would
again reduce the cost of the mains. The illustration shows
the arrangement in a sufficiently explanatory manner.
While speaking of glass-lined conduits, we should like to
mention the glass- lined iron tubing made by Dan
Bylaaflg, Limited, of Barnsley, who have an interesting
exhibit at the Crystal Palace, showing pipes, large and
small, bends, junctions, tees, and so forth, in every variety,
all lined with glass. These pipes are exceedingly useful
for a variety of purposes, and deserve extended application.
For water-pipes they offer less skin friction, and are abso-
lutely clean and healthy. For chemicals they are of course
very advantageous, while for the use for which we specially
notice them, electric light conduits, they seem to offer
distinct advantages.
Rylands's patent glass-lined tubing consists internally of a
separate solid glass tube, which is covered and protected by
ordinary iron piping— a suitable cement being inserted
between the iron and the glass makes the whole a solid
structure, and at the same time renders the glass practi-
cally unbreakable by ordinary use. Not only has this been
accomplished for straight pipes, but by a patent process, of
.^^'d^^.
gj. 1
o— 1
iiyUqdi' F«t«ut 01
which Dan Rylands are the sole owners, tee pieces, bends,
elbows, and crosses are similarly manufactured with the
glass lining. The tubing is made with either cast or
wrought iron exterior piping, and with butt, flange, or
socket joints, as desired. By either of these the glass-lined
tubing is easily connected together. In every case a thin
washsr of guttapercha or other packing is interposed to
secure a perfectly sealed end before the pipes are screwed
up. The glass-lined tubing is claimed as realty less expen-
sive than lead piping, and only some 20 per cent, more
than iron piping. The severe tests to which the patent
tubing has been subjected have proved that it will also
stand the extreme alternations of heat and cold. For
chemical work in manufactories where acid is to be led
about or turned on by tap, the tubing would be invaluable.
For electric light mains it is proposed simply to use bare
copper wires, thus saving the insulation for long leads,
while twin wires could of course be threaded in one pipe
for house wiring if desired, with additional security from
earth faults.
Amonffst other places, the glass-lined tubing has been
used in t^e electric light distribution for the Bridlington
Local Board, for carrying the high-tension cables, and the
town surveyor and enfpneer, Mr. E. Railston Brown, oon-
sidets it BM proved itself a valuable conduit for high-
tension mains, especially where these mains are unavoidably
placed in very exposed situations.
Dan Rylands also make Leclanch^ jars by patent
machinery, and exhibit specimens at their stall. A circular
projection is moulded on the bottom of the cell ; this serves
to receive the bottom of the porous pot and hold it in
perpendicular position, not touching the mouth of the cell.
Greater accuracy and uniformity is secured in the moulded
cells than by hand-made glassware, and specially strong
glass is used in the manufacture of these cells.
Amongst the companies using Rylands's glass-lined tubing
are the St. James's and Pall Mall Company, Mason's-yard,
St James's; Messrs. Crompton and Co., at Kensington
Court ; the Blackburn Electric Works, Blackburn, and
others.
Among the many interesting exhibits of U«Bsrs. Xiainir<
WtaArton, and Down to be found in the Entertainment
Court, is an automatic regulator, which is said to prove
exceedingly useful and effective when an installation of
incandescent lamps is run by means of prime motors whose
speed is very irregular. The action depends upon that of
an electromagnet, the core of which, as it moves to and
fro, brings in or puts out contacts to which resistances
are connected. But the accompanying illustrations explain
the whole matter.
1. — The price of gas at Carmarthen i
4s. 6d. per thousand, and the contract with the gas company
was on^ renewed by the casting vot« ot the chairmaQ m
the Town Council.
300
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 25, 189^.
m
THE
tLECTRICAL ENGINEER.
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Priee Threepenee ; Post Free, Threepenee Halfpenny.
Editorial and Pabiishingr Offlees :
189-140, SAUSBURY COURT, FLEET STREET,
LONDON, E.C.
Notes 289
The Crystal Palace Exhibi-
tion 294
Lane Fox v. Kensington and
Knightsbridge 300
KeepOatside 901
Correspondence 901
Practical Instruments for the
Miaasarement of Electri-
city 301
Cambridge 302
Turbines for CentralStations 303
Flectric Lk^ht Installation at
Bolton Technical School 303
Physical Society 304
The Telephone and the
Government 304
Load Diagrams for Electric
Tramways, and the Cost
of Electric Traction 305
Coast Communication Past
and Present 305
Electro-Harmonic Society... 309
Companies* Meetings 310
Companies* Reports 310
Business Notes 311
Provisional Patents, 1892 ... 312
Specifications Published 312
Companies* Stock and Share
List 312
TO 00RRE8P0NDENT8.
AU Rights Reserved. SeoreUmes and Managers of Companies
are invited to furnish notice of Meetings^ Issue of New
Shares^ InstallationSf ConirMtSf and any informaUon
connected with Electrical Engineering which may he
interesting to our readers. Inventors are informed thai
any account of their inventions submitted to us wHl
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LANE FOX V. KENSINGTON AND KNI6HTSBRID0E.
This ca.se, a.dmittedly one of the utmost importance
to the electrical industry, has employed the Courts
for a period of some sixteen days, and was fruitful
with surprises from day to day. Judgment has not
yet been delivered, so it is impossible that we should
comment upon the various and conflicting evidence
given, but we may be permitted, without endanger-
ing ourselves for contempt of court, to combat views
often somewhat energetically expressed as to the
present method of deciding technical cases. One of
the suggestions oftenest expressed is that the judge
trying such cases ought to be fully equipped with
technical knowledge. We respectfully demur to this
view, and every trial we listen to proves that men
possessed of technical knowledge have their views
warped in every direction and could not listen
unbiasedly. Their opinions are mostly of a settled
and of a dogmatic character. They are not open to
conviction, because they start with knowledge. The
judge, if imbued with scientific information, would
either be orthodox or heretical, and would revel
in the subtleties of scientific research, and
entirely overlook the broad principles usually
underlying every question subject to litigation.
It is not long after the opening' of a case
before the experienced judge begins to see the
broad points upon which in the end the issue must
rest, and his aim is directed to ascertain the facts
which bear upon these points^rrelevant maundering
about the importance of some highly attenuated
will-o'-the-wisp-like theory is brusquely pushed aside.
In the case above mentioned, the Attorney-General
referred to the presence of a technical assessor to
assist the judge. Where is the use of the assessor ?
A and B are two celebrated scientific witnesses.
They testify on oath to certain things, and their testi-
mony is diametrically opposite. For every assessor
who agrees with A, an assessor can be found who
agrees with B. It is the duty of the legal advisers
of the litigants to see that their case is put so
clearly and plainly and truly before the judge that
he, possessing a trained experience, may decide
the question upon the known scientific facts — if
scientific facts are involved — and not upon the
fancies which are to be found in the borderland of
science. It seems to us that the position of a judge
is made difficult, not because of the inherent difficulty
of the case, but because he has to decide ^pon
truths which, while they may be truths, are only
half-truths. Witnesses are asked questions the
answers to which, it is hoped, will make a consecutive
narrative of sufficient influence to win the case.
They are not asked questions the answers to which
may make clear scientific points, if such answers
tend to go against their side ; and if the opposing
counsel happens to ignore in his cross-examination
the points which remain half-elucidated, his side has
to suffer. The onlooker undoubtedly sees most of
the game, and an adverse judgment is as often due
to the lack of perception as to the tendency of a
half answer by the opposing counsel, as to his
having a bad case. There, however, seems to
remain a suggestion which possesses some value.
In these technical cases, why should not the judge
f He ULESOtRiCAL ENGINEER, MARCH 25, 1892.
30i
be able to call witnesses, put to them points which
to him are doubtful, or on which the evidence is
scientifically conflicting, and let opposing counsel
cross-examine in the usual manner? Such witnesses
would be uninterested in either party, and would not
be answering with reservation to benefit one side or
the other. Again, in some cases an honest experi-
ment by a disinterested witness would settle disputed
facts once and for all, and would save time, money,
and temper. When ten men say a horse is black,
and ten as strongly assert it is grey, a man not
colourblind will end the dispute by using his eyes.
KEEP OUTSIDE.
During the season it is not uncommon to find an
awning over the pathway, and a carpet laid down to
the front door, so that invited guests can gain their
carriages without danger to skirts. The door is open,
but only to the invited. The latter view seems to
hold good with the meetings of the Gulcher Com-
pany. The shareholders may enter, but the Press
has to keep outside. Usually when directors are so
anxious to hide their light under a bushel, it means
that the light is as difiicult to find as the pea under
the thimble. Last Monday the counsels of the
chairman (Mr. D. de Castro) prevailed, and the
meeting was held in secret. A similar suggestion at
a previous meeting failed to obtain the consent
of the shareholders, but since then no doubt
their education in secret ways has become more
advanced. At any rate, the chairman pretended,
or actually thought, that what he had to say
concerning his trip to the Antipodes, and the
results to be expected therefrom, had better not
become public property. We do not believe that
Mr. D, de Castro can give us any news about prob-
able business that cannot be easily obtained else-
where. We do not believe that any person, or body
of persons, in the places be has visited would in any
shape or form confide secretly in the chairman of
the Gulcher Company his or their intention to carry
out work, or to give orders to any one firm, without
making enquires as to prices from other firms. The
only reason that could possibly be brought forward
for having a meeting of shareholders unreported
is that private information as to business prospects
might be made known to business competitors.
Now If a company is in a good business position its
directors do not dilate at the meetings upon business
details, and business in hand or under negotiation
belongs to the details of office work, and not to
meetings of shareholders. If a company, however,
is in a bad way — an exceedingly bad way — it is
necessary for the directors to keep up the spirits of
the shareholders as long as they can, in order
that the company may be kept going, and the
directors draw their fees. To keep up a good head
of spirits, it is customary to dilate at length
upon what is going to happen. We do not say
that the Gulcher Company is in a bad way. We
do say this, however, that Mr. de Castro had nothing
of consequence to say that might not as well have
been said before reporters as before shareholders.
We are bound to warn shareholders that no confi-
dence will ever be placed in the stability of a com-
pany whose meetings are held in secret. The public
draw one conclusion, and one only — not that business
details are in question, but that the position of affairs
won't bear investigation.
CORRESPONDENCE.
" One man's word U no man's word,
Justice needs that both be heard."
THE MOTOR-TRANSFORMER.
Sir, — I think the motor-transformer should be considered
one of the most important exhibits in the Electrical Exhi-
bition at the Crystal Palace, for it is to this machine we
must look for the conveyance of direct currents to long
distances, and every day shows us that the demand for the
direct current in the daytime, to be used in motors for
power, is increasing. I should like to know what is the
percentage of power absorbed by the counter E.M.F. when
in full work. The machine itself afipears to be well and
solidly built, and the oiling arrangement is simple and
good. The automatic switch on the primary of these
machines should be made to cut out the secondary circuits
also, when they are run in parallel, otherwise one may be
found running at the expense of its neighbour. I hope
the committee now appointed will make a thorough test of
the efficiency of this machine with both light and heavy
loads, and publish the results. — Yours, etc., W.
PRACTICAL INSTRUMENTS FOR THE MEASURE-
MENT OF ELECTRICITY.
BY J. T. NIBLETT AND J. T. EWEN, B.SC.
V.
(Continued from page 207.)
RssisTAifCE, continued.
WhecUstones Biidge or Balance, — Perhaps the most usual
method of measuring ordinary resistances ia to employ one
form or other of what is known as a Wheatstone's Bridge. All
forms of this device comprise three essential parts : (1) a closed
electrical circuit, one portion of which consists of two wires
or other conductors, so as to provide at this part two separate
paths through which the current will flow ; (2) a connecting
link, or bridge between two points, one in each of these two
paths ; and (3) a means of ascertaining whether a current is
passing along this connecting link.
Fio. 3.— Divided Circuit with Connectinfir Link.
Let M and N be two points in a closed circuit ABM NOD
in which an electric current is flowing, and let the portion of
the circuit between the two points M and N consist of two
paths MSN and MTN. Then the potential or electrical
pressure in the circuit falls gradually from A to B, B to M,
M to N, N to C, and C to D, so that the potential at B is
less than at A, the potential at M is less than at B, the
potential at N is less than at M, and so on. We shall con-
fine our attention in the meantime, however, to that portion
of the current lying between the points M and N, and which
consists of the two paths MSN and M T N. Now if a point
P be taken anywhere in the path M S N, its potential most of
302
THE ELECTHiCAL ENGlKEER, MARCH 26, 1892.
necessity be less than that of M and greater than that of N,
and furthermore there must be one and only one corre-
sponding point, Q, in the path M T N whose potential is
exactly equal to that of P. This is quite independent of
the relative quantities of current flowing through the two
paths. The total resistance of MSN may bear any ratio
whatever to that of M T N without affecting the principle in
the slightest degree.
If now the two points P and Q, whose i>otentials are the
same, be joined by a conductor, it is obvious that no current
will pass along this conductor in either direction as there is
no difference of potential or E.M.F. between its ends ; and if
a galvanometer forms part of this conductor it will show no
deflection.
This connecting link, PQ, forms, as will be seen from
Fig. 3, a bridge between the two branches M S N and M T N ;
and as this arrangement, although originally designed by
Mr. Christie, was first made public by Sir Charles Wheatstone,
it is usually termed a Wheaistinie's Biidge. It is also known by
the name of JVhmtsione^s Balance^ on account of the balancing
of the i)otential s at the points P and Q. This connecting
link P Q must, however, be more than merely a bridge
between MSN and MTN. It must be provided with a
current indicator of some kind to show whether any current
is passing along the bridge in either direction. This current
indicator usually takes the form of a sensitive galvanometer
as shown at G, Fig. 4, although in cases where very great
accuracy is desired, a telephone, which would give an aural
indication, might with advantage be substituted for it.
As a rule, all measurements of resistance by means of the
Wheatstone^s Bridge method consist simply in determining
two points of equal potential or electrical pressure, such as
P and Q, one in each of the two arms of a divided circuit, such
as MSN and M T N. In the original form of the apparatus,
now known as the Metre Bridge, only one of the two points, Q,
is fixed, while the other one, P, is moved backwards and
forwards along MSN until the balance is obtained. In the
form kno\vn as the Post Office Wheatstone's Bridge, both the
points P and Q are fixed, and the resistance of the arms on
either side are altered until the balance is established.
Fi<;. 4. — Principle of Wheat stone's Bridjife.
In Fig. 4, let Rj 1^, U.^ and i\ be four resistances connected
up as shown, so that R., and R3 together form one branch,
while Ri and R form the other branch of an electrical circuit
divided between the two points M and N as before. Let
the four resistances, R^ R2R3 and R, be so adjusted that the
galvanometer G, connected up between the two points P and
Q as shown on the diagram, gives no deflection. The two
points P and Q are therefore at precisely the same potential.
But the points M and N are each common to both branches
of the divided circuit, therefore the fall of potential from
M to P is the same as that from M to Q, and the fall from
P to N is the same as that from Q to N. Also since no
current is flowing along P Q, whatever current flows through
M P the same must also flow through P N, and whatever
flows through M Q must also flow through Q N. From this it
follows by Ohm's law (which says that the electrical resist-
ance between any two points in a circuit in Ohms, is equal
to the difference of potential between these two points in
Volts, divided by the current flowing in that part of the
circuit in Amperes) that P must divide the whole resistance
in M P N in the same proportion as Q divides the whole
resistance in M Q N. Thus we may write :
Rj ! R3 ! ! Rj ! R ;
or ILj I Rj ! ! R3 I R.
Then if the values of R^ lU and R3 cu-e all known, and the
value of R is being determined, we have —
R= _
«.
which expression gives the value of R, in terms of three
known resistances.
To determine R it is not, however, necessary to know the
absolute values of all the three resistances R^ R^ and R^.
If the value of R, is known, and simply the ratio between
Rj and Ro, we have —
11 = Ri X
R.
it: '
this is the condition in the case of the Metre Bridge. Again,
if the value of R.^ is known, and the ratio between Rj and
R.>, we may similarly write —
11 = IL X ^^1 ;
' R. '
this is the condition in the case of the various forms of Post
Office Wheatstone's Bridge, Dial Wheatstone's Bridge, etc.,
where the value of J may be made equal to 100, 10, 1, ^V
or
TTRT'
In our next article we hope to deal with the various
commercial forms of Wheatstone's Bridge.
(To he continued.)
CAMBRIDGE.
THE ELECTRIC LIGHTING QUESTION.
At the last meeting of the Town Council the Electric
Lighting Committee presented the following r6|X)rt :
*'Tbat in accordance with the resolutions passed at a
meeting of the Council held on the 18th ult., the com-
mittee entered into negotiations with Messrs. Parsons and
Co., relative to their offer to form a company for taking
over the powers and duties of the Corporation under the
electric lighting provisional order, and received from them
the following offer : * We beg to make the following offer
to take over the powers granted to you by the Cambridge
electric lighting provisional order. 1. We would under-
take to commence the light within the area of supply not
later than the commencement of the October term next, if
this proposal be accepted at your meeting on the 17th inst.,
and to proceed continuously with all possible despatch. 2.
We will reimburse the Corporation the sum of £1,040 paid
by them for the site of the proposed station, which we take
over, and also the sum of £300 expended by them in
obtaining the provisional order. 3. The system employed
would be the alternating current system, with a pressure
not exceeding 2,000 volts and transformed down to a
pressure not exceeding 100 volts at the point of supply. 4.
The Corporation to have power to acquire the undertaking
on the terms specified in the Electric Lighting Acts at the
end of 32 years, and each subsequent completed period of
10 years. We are advised and believe that to name au
earlier period than 32 years would be seriously prejudicial
to the success of the undertaking, as it would probably
prevent the investment of capital in the concern. 5. The
standard price of current to private consumers to be 7d. per
Board of Trade unit, such price to rise and fall according
to a sliding scale of ^. per unit for each 15s. per cent, of
cumulative dividend declared above or below 8 per cent, per
annum after making due allowance for depreciation and
reserve fund. The price not to exceed 8d., and should the
directors think desirable, it may be lower than that fixed
by the scale. 6. The standard price to be charged to the
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER. MARCH 25, 1892.
303
Corporation for public Umps to be 5^d. per unit ; aucb
price to riao or fall at the rate of |d. per unit for eacb £1
per cent, per annum of cumulative dividend above or belov
8 per cent. The price not to exceed Sd.; and should the
directors think desirable it may be lower than that fixed by
the scale. 7. The Corporation not to consent to the grant
of a license or provisional order to any persons or com-
pany to long as the supply is sufficiently maintained.
8. We should have full power to form a company, if
desired, for the purpose of carrying out the above objects,
and the deed of transfer specified in your provisional order
should be entered into, if desired, with such company, We
should be quite prepared to admit on the board of the
company at least three directors resident in Cambridge,
and to obtain a large portion of the necessary capital from
the town and district. It would also doubtless be found
necessary, and we quite agree, to hold a large proportion of
the directors' meetings in Cambridge. 9. If entrusted
with the powers now vested in the Corporation it would be
our endeavour to carry out the work in a manner satisfac-
tory to the Corporation and to the public ; and we would
with confidence refer to the work done and the results
obtained by the Newcastle and District Electric Lighting
Company, Limited (of which our Mr. Parsons is the
managing director) in testimony of our ability to periorm
our undertaking.' The committee met on the 8th mst. for
having the power to acquire the undertaking at the end
of 21 years, upon paying for the undertaking as a going
concern, including valuation of the goodwill ; the amount of
the valuation in case of dispute to be settled by arbitration.
The committee accepted this proposal, and they further
stipulated that the agreement should contain the usual
clause against assignment of the undertaking by the
company, and such other clauses as should be found
necessary or proper to insert in a contract of that nature,
which was also accepted on behalf of the firm. Your com-
mittee consider the terms so provisionally concluded to be
fair and reasonable, and they recommend that the same be
adopted by the Council, and that the town clerk be
instructed to prepare an agreement in accordance with the
provisions contained in the provisional order relative to
the transfer of the powers of the Corporation under the
order, and, if necessary, to take the advice of counsel
thereon."
After a considerable discussion the report was adopted.
TURBINES FOR CENTRAL STATIONS.
We illustrate herewith a pair of Victor turbines arranged
for central station work. 'The chief feature of this arrange-
the purpose of considering the above offer, Ur. Parsons also
being present. In the discussion which ensued, Mr. Parsons
consented to the following modifications of the terms con-
tained in the letter of his firm: 1. That the charge per unit
should not in any case exceed 7d. 2. That the company
should pay £1,000 towards the expenses of the Corporation,
instead of the £300 mentioned in their letter. Mr. Parsons,
however, was unable to agree to any option to purchase the
undertaking at an earlier period than the term of 32 years.
A majority of the committee was in favour of accepting
the offer contained in the letter of Messrs. Parsons and Co.,
subject to the two modifications consented to by Mr.
Parsons. But he was requested to further consider the
question of the option to purchase at the end of seven, 14,
and 21 years. The committee met again on the llth inst.,
whan Mr. Parsons and Mr. Harvey, the solicitor of the
firm, also attended. The latter stated that he had again
considered the question of the option to purchase, but that
he could not advise his clients to consent to any such pur-
chase at the end of seven or fourteen years, on the ground of
the difficulty of raising the requisite capital, and that it
was essential that there should be some fixity in the tenure
of the company, to induce its managers to put their best
efforts in the work. He stated, however, that Messrs.
Parsons were prepared to consent to the Corporation
ment is the ease with which any dynamo can be thrown in
or out of working. This system can be applied, of course,
to any number of dynamos desired.
The engraving was made from a pair of Victor turbines
on horizontal shafts, equipped with Rice's improved disc
friction pulleys for driving six dynamos direct from water-
wheel shafts. The feeder is provided with a valve gate for
shutting out the water in case of necessity. Each turbine
is independent, having its own gate rig and governor, and
drives three dynamos, either one of which can be cut out
at will by means of the friction pulleys, without interfering
with the others.
ELECTRIC LIGHT INSTALLATION AT BOLTON
TECHNICAL SCHOOL.
The alectric liuht installation for the lighting of the Bolton
TechiiicAl Schoolwhich tras formally opened on Saturday, Uarch
19tti, by Alderninn Dubsun, has been supplied and erected by
Mewrs. Ernest Scutt and Mountain, Limited, electrical and
general ent^iiieers, Close Works, Newcaade oii-Tyne, and is
ve^ coinplat«.
There are two dynamos of the Tyne compound-wound type,
atted with heavy turned flywheels and fast and lo«se pulleys,
for generatuig the current — each machine giving an output of
304
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 25. 1892.
90 amperosat an E.M.F. of 105 volte when ruiiniiig at a speed
of 900 revolutioQB per niinute. Both dynamos are provided
with sliding bed-plates, with tightening screws and holding-
down bolts, enabling the slack of the belt to be taken up.
The power for driving the dynamos is obtained from two
14-h.p. nominal gas engines. Countershafting is arranged so
that either engine can drive either dynamo, the power being
transmitted by belting. The current from the dynamo is con-
ducted by cables to a main switchboard, which is of a ver}'
substantial design, and consiste of an enamelled slate base fitted
with four of Messrs. Ernest Scott and Mountain's double-pole
switches with fusible cut-oute, the switches being arranged to
control the lighte in the basement, ground floor, first floor, and
second floor. Two coupling switches are also fitted on the slate
base, arranged so that the dynamos can be coupled in parallel
or can be run independently or singly as required. The slate
base is fitted into a deep oak frame. An ampere-meter and volt-
meter are also fitted on the main switchboard, enabling the
current and pressure to be measured.
I^THe total installation consiste of about 220 16-c.p. incandes-
cent lamps, the lamps being suspended by flexible pendants
from the ceilings in the workshops. Where a concentrate<l
light Lb required at any particular point the lamps are made to
raise and lower, this being found a great advantage for weaving.
Enamelled iron or opal shades are fitted to the pendants
according to the positions in which they are placed, and in the
foundry and pattemmaking department wire guards have been
provided to prevent any possibility of the lamps being broken.
In the lecture theatre arrangemente have also been provided
so that the current can be utilised for working the magic
lanterns or microscopes, or for demonstrating the uses of elec-
tricity either as motive power or for chemical purposes.
The installation has been split up and a large number of
switches fitted, so that the current can be economised as much
as possible, and generally the arrangemente throughout are of a
very perfect and complete description.
We may mention that Messrs. Ernest Scott and Mountein,
Limited, have recently completed a large installation for the
lighting of the printing works of the liolt<yn Evening Neios,
and have also lighted up the Rothwell Hosiery Company's mills
at Bolton.
THE TELEPHONE AND THE GOVERNMENT.
On Monday the Postmaster-Cieneral, Sir James Fergusson,
received a deputetion from the London Chamber of Conmierce,
headed by Sir Albert Rollit, M.P., who, on their behalf, gave
effect to the opinions expressed at the meeting of the Chamber,
held a few days since and reported in our columns, in favour of
giving every facility to the telephone industry, and of the
introduction by the Ciovernment of a Bill for affbrdinj,'
facilities for ite development. Mr. Sidney Morse furthei
asked that the telephone companies might be regulated by the
Board of Trade, as were those connected with electric lighting.
The Postmaster-General referred the deputetion to a stetement
he was about to make in the House of Commons on the intro-
duction of the New Telephone Company's Bill, which it would
not be respectful to the House that he should anticipate.
This stetement was made on the following day (Tuesday),
when Sir James Fergusson moved the rejection of the
above BiU. The National Company's Bill not being before
the House, it was not included in the motion. Briefly,
these were his pointe : The New Company sought powers
trenching on the Post Ofiice's prerogatives, for Courts hail
decided that telephones were telegraphs. Hitherto licenses
had been granted to companies with the idea of fostering
competition and benefitting the public. Amalgamation by the
National of all licensees, except the New Company, had defeated
this object. Competition had ceased, and inadequate telephonic
service was complained of. The form of the license and ite
restrictions might have had something to do with the small
progress made by the telephone in this kingdom. He
had, therefore, endeavoured to frame a scheme which
would facilitete instead of restricting the spread of the
telephone, while sufiiciently guarding the Post Ofiice mono-
poly. That there was real danger of the telegraphs being
injured by telephones, unless precautions were teken, was
proved by the fact that wherever the telephone system had
developed much, as in Lancashire and Yorkshire, the growth of
the telegraphs had been checked. The concessions which might
be made to the telephone companies were in the main as
follow : Telephone messages might be communicated tg the
telegraph, so as to facilitete through communication between
different towns. Messages from a subscriber to a telephone
exchange might be delivered to his correspondent ; they might be
sent by post as letters, or forwarded by express messengers.
No charge should be made by the Post Office for the work of
taking down telephonic messages and despatching them by tele-
graph or post. The way-leaves now charged for telephone wires
passing over roads or railways might be reduced from £1 per
mile yearly to a nominal sum. Lastly, the companies mlgh t
be allowed, where practicable, to estoblish call offices in the
post offices. Other possible concessions might be made, but
they were matters of deteil. It was an essential feature of
his scheme that the Government should have posMssion of
the trunk wires — that was to say, the wires connecting different
towns and those connecting two or more telephone exchanges
in the same town ; not those between the exchanges and the
private addresses of subscribers. The Government proposed to
consider the local authorities throughout in carrying out this
scheme. The Government further considered tnat a license
should not grant power to do telephone work all over the
country. Accordingly, fresh licenses would only be given to
bodies operating in certain areas, provided they were supported
by the local auUiority and possessed sufficient capital, in a few
days he would move for leave to bring in a Bill on the subject.
The debate was then adjourned to next Tuesday.
PHYSICAL SOCIETY.— Feb. 26, 1892.
Prof. W. E. Ayrton', F.R.S., past- president, in the chair.
Prof. S. P. Tliompean, F.&.S., read a paper " On Modas oT
Representing Kleotromotive Foroea and Cnrrenta In Dlacrama."
The author said he had found it advantageous in some cases to
depart from the usual methods of representation, and he now
brought the subject before the society in order to have it discuased
and improvements suggested. To indicate the directions of car>
rents in wires seen end-on, Mr. Swinburne had used circles with
and without crosses, but no symbol had been suggested for wires
not conveying currents. He (Prof. Thompson) thought the plain
circle should be used for inactive wires. A circle with a dot in
the middle could then be used to indicate that a current was
flowing towards the observer, and a circle with a cross in it
to represent a wire conveying a current away. These meanings
could be recalled by considering the direction indicated by
an arrow, the dot showing the tip of the arrow, and the
cross the feathers. Some methods of distinguishing between
E.M.F. and current was required. For thia he proposed to
use thin -stemmed arrows with feathers for E.M.F.*s, and thick-
stemmed ones without tails for currents. In the case of electrical
transmission of energy this convention had the important
advantage that where the two arrows had the same direction
energy was being given to the system, and where the arrows were
opposite energy was leaving it. Mr. Maycock, he said, bad
recently published a simple rule for finding the direction of
magnetic force due to a current of known oirection in a wire.
Grasp the wire with the right hand, the thumb pointing in the
direction of the current, the fingers will then encircle the wire in
the direction of the magnetic force. Dr. Fleming's well-known rule
for induced currents was also a right-hand rule, but as it referred to
the direction of currents another rule was necessary when consider-
ing motors. By making the rule refer only to E.M.F.'s, only one
rule was required for venerators and motors. For alternating
currents the author found it convenient to draw polar curves anala-
gous to Zeuner's valve diagrams. Suppose a line, 0 P (Fig. 1), repre*
senting the maximum value of an E.M.F. or current wnose
magnitude is a sine function of the time, to revolve at uniform
velocity about 0, the intercepts OQ, 0Q^ etc., cut off by circles
0 Q B, O Q* D, will represent the magnitudes at the times corre-
sponding to the positionR O V and O P'. The effect of lag can also
f
A
i
/
J-
■♦•M
•y.,1
r^t
U^
be represented in such diagrams. In cases where the variables are
not sine functions, the curves OQB and OQ*D are no longer
circles. Polar-diaerams representing the E.M.F. and current
curves obtained by rrof. Ryan in his transformer experiments were
exhibited, and a working diagram illustrating the changes in
three-phase currents was shown. To show the directions of
induced E.M.F. 'sin diagrams of dynamos and motors, diagonal
shading of the pole faces was sometimes convenient ; the lines over
north poles being drawn from left to right downwards in the direc-
tion of the middle stroke of the letter X, and those over south
poles from left to right upwards. A conductor passing over a
north pole from left to right would have an E.M.F. induced in a
downward direction, as indicated by the slope of the diagonal
lines. This method of representation was used to show the ways
of connecting up multipolar drum armatures, the winding being
supposed cut along a generating line, unwrapped from the core,
and laid out flat in the manner adopted by Fritscbe. In connection
with armatures, the author said a formula had been published by
moans of which the nature of a winding, consisting of a given
number of convolutions, and to be used with a given number of
poles, could be predetermined. This, he thought, would be very
useful in practice.
Prof, ▲yiton, referring to the mnemonic character of the modes
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 25, 1892.
305
of repreeentation described by Dr. Thompeon, ea^geeted that the
symbols in the author's book shoald be more mnemonic. He him-
self was in the habit of using large letters for currents and small
ones for resistances : A and a for the armature, S and « for series,
and Z and z for the shunt, currents and resistances respectively,
and a and ^ for the series and shunt terms. He also found
the following E.M.F. rule very convenient. Draw three rec-
tangular axes O M, O F, and O E, as shown in Fig. 2. If then OF
represents the direction of the force (magnetic), O M that of the
motion, then O E shows the direction of the induced E.M.F.
Dr. TlMVipsoB, in replying, said he thought Mr. Blakesley had
misunderstood what had been said, for no ambiguity existed. In
describing the windings of armatures, difficulty arose from want
of proper names for the various elements, and in his forthcoming
work suitable names had been given. To Prof. Ayrton he pointed out
that in his book, he (Dr. Thompson) had used mnemonic characters,
for ra, r^, and rntt represented the resistances of armature, shunt,
and series magnet coils respectively The symbol I for current
had also been recommended for adoption by the Frankfort Com-
mittee. He objected to Greek letters except for specific quantities,
such as anf^les, specific inductive capacities, refractive indices, etc.
He apprecuited the simplicity of Prof. Ajrrton's E.M.F. rule, but
thought it would be better to rotate O E and O F through a right
angle about O M, thus giving Fig. 3.
COAST COMMUNICATION PAST AND PRESENT.
A paper on this most necessary and urgent want of the day was
read last Friday evening by Mr. H. Benest, C.E., at the weekly
meeting of the Balloon Society at St. James's Hall, Piccadilly. In
the unavoidable absence of Rear-admiral Mayne, C.B., M.P., the
chair was taken by Mr. R. Kaye Gray.
Mr. Benest said that all the islands, rock lighthouses, and light-
ships should be in connection with the mainland at points as near
as practicable to coastguard and lifeboat stations, these stations
in turn being in continuous telephonic communication with one
another and adjacent postal telegraphic offices. Quoting from
articles recently publisned in the Ttmest he gave some graphic
descriptions of wrecks which had occurred, and of two on the
Welsh coast— one in 1883, the other in December last — lack of
communication in the first instance causing the loss of 18 lives, and
in the second the loss of the ship. Speaking of what had b^n
done in the past towards establishing signal stations on our coasts,
be gave brief accounts of the experiments with the ** Brisk " at the
entrance of the English Channel in 1870, and the trial of the tele-
graph cable to the ** Sunk " lightship off Harwich, commenced in
1884 and abandoned a few years ago. He showed that one attempt
bad been made in the direction of connecting up lighthouses.
That of the Fastnet in 1884, which, after several interruptions and
expensive repairs to the cable, was abandoned in the third year of
the installation. He considered the conditions favourable there to
the safe existence of b cable, once properly protected from the
force of the sea. He pointed out that something beyond an experi-
mental state had been reached. Although much had been said,
but little had been done towards arriving at a comprehensive
system of communication with outlying stations. In referring to
Lundy Island, and the recent experiences of H M.S. " Banterer "
in that locality, he said it would be necessary to lay the cable clear
of the tide-race, which was the cause of its frequent failure.
Coming to the present, he dealt with the connecting-up for
Llovd's Tory Island on the N.W. of Ireland with the mainland of
PolIaquiU Bay in July, 1890, and showed that the cable had been
an unqualified success, having worked without interruption since
opening a year and eight months ago. This station, commanding,
as it does, the route through the North Channel, with shipping
property valued at about 35 millions per annum, and about
250,000 passengers and crews passing through annually (according
to Mr. James McNeill, of Londonderry) demonstrated the great
importance of this point as a signal station. He drew attention
•o Tory Island bemg the only outlying station on the coast of
the United Kingdom in communication with the mainland, and
contrasted this communication unfavourably with the 157 miles of
telephonic lines in existence on the coast of Jutland, in the
kin^om of Denmark, connecting together 50 lifeboat and rocket
stations. He considered that the War Office should take an interest
in coast communication, as in time of war it would be invaluable,
and that all wires should be subterranean.
Coming to the consideration of what could be done, and how to
do it, he suggested that a committee be formed of outside experts,
engineers, and mariners. He said that preliminary trials might
be made of connecting up certain groups of lightships, also
certain lighthouses with the coast. In continuing, he touched
upon various methods which might be brought into use for pro-
tecting the cables from the action of the sea in connection with
lighthouses, and a plan he thought might prove feasible for
establishing communication with lightships.
After a short discussion, it was proposed by Mr. E. J. Hobbes,
seconded by Mr. C. J. I^eslie, and adopted unanimously : *' That,
with a view to the better prevention of loss of life and property in
oases of vessels in distress or shipwrecked, and to give the earliest
|x>s8ible information to lifeboat authorities and rocket apparatus
stations, it is desirable that a complete system of telephonic and
telegraphic communication should be provided by Government
round tne coast of the United Kingdom ; that the coastguard and
signal stations be also connected ; and that on those parts of the
coast where such stations do not exist, the postal telegraphic
offices nearest to the lifeboat stations be telephonically and tele-
graphic(Uly connected therewith."
LOAD DIAGRAMS OF ELECTRIC TRAMWAYS, AND
THE COST OF ELECTRIC TRACTION.*
BY A. REGKBNZAITN, MEMBKR.
In the present paper I propose to draw attention to two
important branches of this rapidly-growing subject, *' electric
traction." These branches relate to the energy consumed in
propelling electric cars, and the commercial results of several
tramways in different parts of the world.
Of the errors into which the pioneers in electric traction fell,
none was more serious, and I may say more general, than that of
providing insufficient motive power. The early motors were all too
small, too lightly built, and conseciuently were not durable. In
spur gearing, the double-reduction gear has been abandoned by
the principal American firms on account of its great cost of
maintenance ; the high speed at which the motor pinion had to
run was detrimental to the life of the mechanism. A reaction has
set in, and attempts are being made to drive cars by placing the
armatures directly upon the axle. It is questionable whether this
method will prove successful in the long run. But the single-
reduction gear — that is to say, one pinion and one spur wheel
running at moderate speeds — appears to give excellent results, and
the repair bills have been largely reduced in consequence.
If we calculate from the accepted coefficients of resistance to
traction on common tram rails, we find that an ordinary tramcar
will require but 3 h. p. to 4 h.p. for its propulsion when once in
motion. But it is the setting of a vehicle in motion from a state
of rest which demands the greatest amount of energy, and the
electric motors which were built in the early days were soon knocked
to pieces by the enormous strain put upon them on starting. On
English tramways, it has been computed, a tramcar has to stop
from four to eight times every mile, according to the amount of
passenger traffic. With a view of ascertaining the exact condi-
tions as to the variations in the power consumed on an electric car,
I made a series of tests four years ago with an electric car in the
public streets of Philadelphia. Fig. 1 represents a portion of a
diagram obtained from careful readings with reliable instruments.
The whole trip lasted 71 minutes, but the diagram, Fig. 1,
represents only the first 19 minutes. Readings were taken and
recorded every three seconds. The maximum current, it will be
observed, reached at times 120 amperes. This occurred when
starting on curves and gradients. Frequently it dropped to zero,
and, in fact, these gaps, representing periods when no current was
used, gave, on being added up, 45 per cent, of the total. The
car contained 84 storage cells weighing 3,4001b., and it carried an
average of 26 passengers. The aggregate weight propped was
seven tons. The distance covered during the entire journey was
seven miles, giving a mean speed of only six miles per hour, and
this had to be maintained on account of the horse cars which
ran on the same line. Averaging the current consumed, we find
it to be 31 amperes. The maximum E.M.F. was 160 volts,
and the mean 157 volts, giving an average of 6'52 e.h.p.
used by the car motor. The maximum current of 120 amperes
into the minimum E.M.F. of 140 volts would give 22'5 e.h.p., but
this occurred only nine times during the journey, and eacn time
but for a second or two. Currents of from 60 to 100 amperes were
recorded more frequently.
The next three diagrams are exceedingly interesting, as they
represent the working of three different systems of electric cars,
on an overhead conductor line at Des Moines, U.S.A. These tests
were made on the same day, over the same length of track, with
the same number of passengers carried, and the same kind of car
body. The cars were operated by the same man, and the readings
were taken by officials of the tramway company. Fig. 2 was
obtained from the car fitted with two 15-h.p. Thomson -Houston
motors. The maximum current at any time was 75 amperes, the
mean 224, dropping at times to zero, while the E.M.F. varied
between 360 and 520 volts on a run of 20 miles. Fig. 3 gives the
curves from observations on a car propelled over the same distance
by means of two 15-h.p. Sprague motors. Here, again, we observe
a maximum current of 75 amperes, average 25 '95 amperes, with
E.M.F.'s varying from 320 to 560 volts at the motor terminals.
Tests represent^ by Fig. 4 gave the following results with two
15-h.p. Westinghouse motors : Maximum current, 95 amperes ;
mean, 31 '3 amperes ; maximum E.M.F , 560 ; minimum, 380.
I could give more diagrams of a similar kind, but these will
suffice for the purpose ot showing the enormous and remarkably
frequent fluctuations of current, and the attendant rise and fall of
the energy consumed. With several such cars running on a line
with overhead or other conducting medium for the transmission
of electricity from the generating station to the moving cars, the
peaks woula occur at more frequent intervals, filling the great
gaps in proportion to the number of cars running simultaneously.
Little reliance, however, should be placed upon the possibility of
obtaining even a moderately constant loaa at the generating
station From numerous experiments, I have found that it takes
about 20 seconds to bring a tramcar from rest to its normal speed ;
during this period the current drops gradually from its maximum,
due to the onmic resistance of the circuit, to a value corresponding
with the load upon the car motor at its normal speed. The stop-
pages on tram lines with much traffic are so numerous that it wul
often happen that a large percentage of the cars start simul-
taneously, when for a moment the engines and dynamos have to
exert their utmost power, and before tne engine governor has time
to act, the current may be down again at, or below, its normal.
* Paper read before the Institution of Electrical Engineers,
March 24, 1892.
306
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 25, 1892.
I «m todebted to Mr. Gibeon Carey, of the ThomMn-Hoaiton
Company, for the diagram, Fig. 5, which repraeoiits the flucbua-
tioDB of the load at ths ^onorating station of tbe Ronndliay electric
tramway at tweeds. Five cars were Bimultaneouely on the line,
yet the current droi)|)ed to 7*ro '20 time* within the 8[Mice of one
hour. These abrupt changeB have the effect of reducing the
average efficiency of the whole syHtem to a comparatively low
figure. The engine and dynamo must be able to furnisn the
maiimum energy demanded at any instant, whilst the mean
Dover in many cases scarcely comes to one-bhjid of the maximum.
MsBBurenientfl made by Dr. Louis Bell on several American electric
tramways have shown that the efBciency of an
taking the brake horpe-powor of the car motor*,
i BVfltei
yi by tl
ooQld be made very cheapiv, and by allowiiiK iuffident material it
can be of any durability desired. The diagrams show that tb«
large excess of currant is only required for a few seoondsat atime,
therefore a storage battery of large surface would fumiah this in a
far more rational way than the best designed dynamo worked by
the most delicately K0> emed steam engine. It would save engine
power, and reduce the cbancesof broakdownsdue to sudden ehoclu
to the [^nerating plant.
Again reverting to our diagrams, which, to the practiiod eye,
reveal a number of interesting points, we find that on itArting a
singlecarfrom20e.h.p.to60e.b.p. areabBOrt>ed,aadthiaDOcnraJQrt
when the motor is giving a comparaUvely small roechMiicalpowBr
otBeiency ; this energy In abwirbed in prodacing
indicated horse-power of the engine at the generating station,
amouDte in some cases to only 25 per cent., and that in no case
does it reach over 40 per cent, in everyday practice on a tram line.
With electric railways having fixed stopping places at long inter,
vala, with the time-tables so arranged tliat only on rare occasions
•everol train* start simultaneous^, a higher efficiency may be
aimed at.
Electric light engineers will look with amazement, and perhaps
envy, upon the variations in the voltage marked on Fi^. 2, 3,
and 4. But theae are exceptionally great fluctuations, and there
are many electric tramways where the volts do not vary more
than 15 per cent. A sudden call for large currents always lowerv
the potential, and this is partly due to the feeders being pro-
portioned to the average output, and partly to the momenl&ry
slowing down of the engine. When the governor begino to act,
the initial statical pull, which must be created b^ many ampere-
turns. Now, in order to get many ampere-tnma without exoeeaive
currents, I designed, some eight <^ears ago, a switch which thrown
the motors in series when startrng, and in parallel, whan two or
more motors are used, when a sufficient E.M.F. i> created by virtue
of a certain speed, I also subdivided the field-magnet coils, in
order to obtain several graduations and regulate the fields to the
re(|uirements of the load and speed. Up t« that time eleotrio
engineers uned idle resistances for varying the speed and power.
Mr. Spragae and others have adopted a similar method of regula-
tion. The Thorn son -Houston Company use resistance coils up to
a certain point, after which portions of the divided field coils are
thrown out of circuit. By a judicious arrangement of field
windings to suit the exigenciee of a given road, a very fair all-
round motor efficiency can be obtained.
the excess load has very often already disappeared, and then there
la a tendency to racing for the next moment, and a simultaneous
rise of E.M.F. alKtvo the normal. At the City and South London
Electric Railway, which is only 3J miles in length, the deflections
m the voltmeter vary between 370 and 500, notwithsUuding
oompound- wound generators, and a regular schedule time of
mnning the trains. Several years ago, I suggested a remedy for
eqaallsin^ to some extent the load upon the generating plant of
an eleotnc tramway with overhead conductors, but my sugges-
tion has not been adopted. 1 advised the use of secondary
batteries to act as regulators— not batteries of larae capacity, but
■Dcfa as would give a very high discharge rate. Plain lead plates
of very large surface, formed on the Plontv or aov similar process,
wonla certainly odd to the smooth working of any railway or
tramway where great fluctnations of load are unavoidable, and
oonipoaad winding insufficient. Anaccnmulatorof this description
The battery car from which diagram Fig. 1 was obtained,
squired For its propulsion I 086 electrical horse-power honrt per
lile run, with an average load of seven tons over a line faavlnff no
gradient above 4 per cent. The figures obtained by Hr. 0. T.
Croeby on three American lines with overhead conductors aooord
with the above very closely- Thus, on the hichmond line the
readings were lis horse-power hours per car mile, at Qevolsnd
O'Q, and at Scranton 0*94 horse-power hours. These oars were
very much light«r than the one driven by aooumulatora, bob
there is a gradient of 9 per cent, at Richmond, and one of 7 par
cent, at Scranton, while the Cleveland line is tolerably tevel ;
the speeds at Cleveland averaged nine miles per hour, ana at the
other two lines six miles per hour. The ciwl oonaamption
measured at the generating stations came out as follows : For the
Cleveland line. Sib. per car mile ; and at Scranton, 6'61b.; that of
Richmond eonld not be ascertained, as the same boilwi were need
THE ELBCTRIOAL ENQIKEER, MAHCH 26, 1892.
307
tot boU) the tmn lino and the alectrio lighting plant On th«
riwik(ort-Offi»nb«h Tnunway. and on the Modling line, new
Vienna, both boUt by Meean. Siemens and Halake, t&e coal con-
ramptiaa varies between 71b. and 81b. por car mile. Unfortu-
nately, I have not been able to ascertain the evaporative ouality
of the ooal used in these places. Mr. J. S. Badger, in a hiithly
interesting reoent communication, relates that the very best
stAtion performance he met with in the United States was
1 o.h.p. for Bib. of slack ooal evaporaUng 7ilb. of water. Writing
3
Germany, tor ii ... .^_.. • . -
in the operating coats, are about one-half those pMa in the United
States. Wages and salarlea in England take an intermediate
position. Again, the coit of fnel varies in almoet every dty in the
One of the oldest electric tramways in the world is that of
Frankfort and Oifenbach, in Germany. It was built by Messrs.
Siemens and Haleke, and opened to the pnblic in April, I8S1.
Table I. shows the detailed working eipensea for the year 1890,
on the consumption of fuel in general on a number of American
tram lines, he found that it varied between I'Stb. to 13'2lb. per
oar mile, according to the quality of fuel and the nature of the
road and load. Many of the American tramways have recently
adopted lac^e cars up to 25ft. in length ineide, whereas the usual
standard type of car is only 16ft,, carrying a oroportionately
smaller number of passengerB, although 1 have frequently seen
70 passengerB occupying a 16ft. car intended to seat 22 people.
Overcrowding is not allowed on English tramwayi-.
I have collected a very large amount of material with regard to
giving the sum of 4'608d. per car mile, including all charges. The
Srst hnancial year — 1SIM-S5 — gave a much higher figure — namely,
8'256d. per car mile ; and It is interesting to note that the working
expensas were reduced year after year : this was largely due to
improved appliances and the consequent reduction in the main-
tenance items, as well as in wsf^es. The expenses of Uie other
tramways in the city of Frankfort (which are worked with horsee)
For the year iS90 amounted to 0'O22d. per car mile, or nearly
dooble that of the electric line. The slotted-tnbe overhead-
conductor system is used here, and the entire rolling - stock
the all-important qnestion of operating expense, and I urn Kreatly
Indebted for information riven l>y Mr. Alexander Siemens, Dr. B.
Hopkinson, Mr. Holroyd Smith, the Allgemeine Etectricitdls-
OeselUchaft, Mr. J. S. Badger, and Mr. Robert W. Blackwell.
Full tabulated statements are apnended : to read the same wonld
occupy more time than is atour disposal ; moreover, it would add
to the monotocy of an already very dr^ paper. With your per-
misiion, I will only make such observations rwarding each table
OS nay render eomo assistance to the study of them. Due regard
sboold be taken, in each of the lines, to local conditions. In
conaistB of only 14 cars— 10 of which are fitted with electric
motors, serving as tow cars —holding 24 passengers each. About
1,050,000 passengers are carried per annum ; this is considered a
very low neure, and is partly due to the competition of a local
railway. In consequence of this small traffic, the ratio between
expenditure and revenue is as high as TO per cent., notwithstand-
ing the moderate traction costs.
A more recent and equally interesting example of electric tram-
way enterprise in Germany is that of the city of Halle. The oars
on this line were originally drawn by horses, but a year ago the
308
TflE Uleotbioal ekgIKber, March as. isai.
taanloipal antboriUM f»ve pormiMloD to tha AI^fameiiM Elektrioi-
tata OcMllachaft to eroot overhead conducton on tha plan adopted
by Mr. Spnwue Id America. I am indebted to Hr. Emil Bathwun
w^er ia obtained from the town supply, the sinkini; of a well
havinft been found impracticable. The rolling.etooh coneiita of 26
cars ; the average nnmber actually running was 20*56. Tbey carry
drivers, but no conductorB, and this fact rendsra the wages acooant
remarkably low, the entire working expeaNS coming to only 2'S24d.
peccar mile, or 51 '5 percent, of thegroM revenue. ItmaatbeobBerred,
Dowever, that no allowaooe has been made for depreciation, which,
if laclndad, would add nearly another penny per car mile to the
eipensea acconnt. Incidentally it may here be mentioned that
the Imperial German Government stopped the running of the
electric cars immediately after the openmg ceremeuy becaura they
interfered with the proper working of the telegraphs and tele-
Shooes. The case came before the law courte, when the judges
ecided ill favour of the tramway company, Btatlng at the sanie
time that the streets of a city were intended for generiU trK^c,
that tbeir course could not be altered, but that the poetal
authorities could easily arraufie the teleKraph and telephone
wires so that they ahould not be inSuencea by the electric lines,
which use the rails and earth for the return circuit. The
alterations were made, aod the tramway has had a good time erer
The most remarkable of European electric tramways is that of
Budapest, which was constructed by Measrs. Siemens and Haleke,
of Bwlin. A few months ago I visited the Hungarian capital.
charged bv the Blackpool Corporation tor the use of line fornia ft
oonaiderable itMn — 1 '773d. per car mile— in the sum of tb» wind-
ing expenses. Directors' fees and secretarial ehargea alao saem to
be libwally arranged, making 1 'ISTd. per mile.
On the Bessbrook-Newry tramwav, where water power ia need
for driving the generaters, the faauULge costs during six montha
ending December 31, 1800, amounted to 3-97d. per train mile.
This mcludes water rent, rental of building ; wages of driver,
guard, and dynamo attendant ; maintenance and repairs to
dynamos and conducter ; oil, tAllow, and waste. During the
period stated the train mileage was 10 400 ; the nnmber of pas-
seozers, 50,S00 ; and goods carried, 8,600 tens.
The Americans, as you are well aware, are far ahead of us in
matters relating to tramways ; they count their electric roads by
hundreds, and their electric cars by thousands. I need not enlarge
here upon figures well known te all readers of engineering liten-
ture, but r venture to point W recent statistics on working
expenses, and especially to those prepared by Mr. J. S. Badger
for the Street Railwav Convention last October when meeting at
Ptttahurg. Mr, Badger ^ve an im men Be_ amount of data, i"
systemBticallj a
f which Table V. is an abstract, oon.
_ . _ of this elaborate communication
the aialrkal fforld of October 31, 1891. Indeed, in order
to fully appreciate the data contained in Table V., certain
descriptive matter should accompany it, and this deals with the
number and sizes of boilers, enpnea, dynamos, the qoality and
Fio. I
and I was delighted with the perfect voicing of the electric cars.
Underground conductors are used in this case, and the conduit
is Immediately underneath one of the tram rails, so tbat there is
no additional slot in the roadway. About 50 electric cars are now
in operation over 20 miles of traok. The system is eioeedingly
popular, and it carries a larver number of passengers per mile
than the horse tramways. T^is is probably due te the greater
speed, the electric cars being allowed to mn 11 miles per hour
ia some of the streets. I have not t>een able to obtain deteiled
working expenses, but I have been informed that the same never
exceeded GO per cent, of the revenue since the opening of
the line two years ago, The ratio of working expenses
and revenue on the horse-car Hnee at Budapest is 72 per cent.
Another among the numerous continental electric tramways
is that running between Florence and Fiesole, a distance of
4'Ct miles, which wad tha first continuous steep, grade electric lino
in Europe. The Sprague system is used in this case. Table IV.
ia prepared from data contaiued in a recent paper by Mr. C. P.
Shaibner, of the Institution of Civil Engineers. The author of
l^is interesting paper gives, under the heading " Motive Power,"
the sum of the expenses arising through wages at the generating
station, wages of oar drivers, fuel, water, repairs, eto. These I
have divid^ in my teble in order to facilitate referanoes with
date obtained from other linee. It would be an excellent thing if
all the electric tramways would keep a uniform record of all the
details of working expenses, in the manner done by the existing
horae tramways under the Board of Trade rules.
Coming now to electric traction enterprises in the United
Kingdom, we find in Table III., referring to the Blackpool
tntmway, that the gross expenses amounted last year to 9'91d.
per oar mile, or &7'8 per cent, of the gross receipte. This is a most
satisfactory result, considering that the winter traffic of the sea-
price of coal, condition of rood and track, sizes and number of
can, total mileage, and wages in various localities. I merely give
the most essential ones. Road No. 1 has a generating stetion
conteining four boilers, one 3j0,h,p, Corliss engine, one 130-h.p.
Ball engine, one 150-h,p. Brown engine, and two Edison gene-
rators. The line runs through five milea of streets, and the
steepest gradient is l.t'S per cent., 100ft. long. There ore 38
motor cars of the ordinary size, of which 20 are lu daily use,
making annually 601,966 miles. The price of coal is 8e. 4d. per
ton, and the consumption 71b. per car mile. Road No. 2: Four
iwilers, two Taylor-Beck engines of 125 b.p, each, one of 175 h.p,,
one ArminKton and SiinB of 250 h.p.; live Edison dynamos. Track,
six miles longj steepest gradient, 9*25 per cent, for 400ft.; IS
motor cars, of which 16 are in daily use, making an annual mileage
of 724,000. Price of coal, 7s. 3d. per ton ; consumption, lllb. per
car mile. Rood No. ,1: Eight boilers; nine steam engines, of which
five are of 125 h.p. and two 100 h.p., all of the Pbivnix type ; also
two 125-h.p. Beck engines. Nine Edison and seven Thomson-
Houston dynamos supply current for 60 motor cars in daily use,
making an average of 1,819,000 miles per annum. There are
altogether 53 motor cars, of which four were supplied by Westing-
house, 20 by Edison, and 29 by the Thomson-Houston Company.
Steepest grade, 8 per ceuE. for SOOft.; total length of itreete
traversed, 35 miles. Cost of ooal, lis. 2d.; otid the oonsnmption
of feel is calculated to be 12-21b, per car mile. Road I^ 4:
Two boilers and three ISO-h.p. Ball engines, driving six
dynamos. Length of streets run thran|^, 14 miles, wfUi 16
motor cars, making annually 700,000 miles, ^lere ia one steep
gradient of 10 per cent, rise for 77fi(k Ctaal in this case
coste 8e. 9d., and the amount used pv ear mile is only 8-4lb.
The fifth rood, out of seven given by Kr. BadM*, is only fonr
miles long, with five passenger can Mid Dog bafgnt car. It has
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 25, 1892.
only boen huming for nine months up to the date of the report.
The ooaI coets 12b. 8d. to 15e. lOd. per ton ; water 6d. per 1,000
gmUoofl. The waseB on all the above lines varied between 40b. and
dOb. per week for drivers, conductors, and mechanics.
The most important of all the American electric tramways is
that of the West End Railway Company of Boston, where they
have DOW 400 electric cars in operation. Table VI. gives a
comparative statement of gross receipts and working expenses
of toe electric oars and horse cars in the city of Boston for five
months ending Aueust, 1891. No detailed account is fnven, but
the rolling-stock u continually being increased, and the central
power station in course of construction will contain engines
capable of converting 12,000 h.p. into electrical energy. All the
American lines referred to are worked on the overhead conductor
principle.
I have intentionally omitted comparisons between electric
traction and various modes of mechanical traction, such as cable,
steam, and compressed air. Our object in this Institution is to
enaoire into the merits of systems involving the use of electricity,
and to further their extension in every legitimate way, and with
this point in view I have endeavoured to collect and bring before
▼ou such data as may tend to increase the general interest in one
unportant branch of our profession.
Table I. — Fran kfort-Offkn bach Electrk; Tramways.
Working Expetises of the Year 1890.
Pence.
Fuel, percarmile 0*48
Wages of drivers and conductors 0'864
Salaries and wages at the generating station 0*06
Maintenance of machinery 0'576
Maintenance of line and buildings 0'288
Taxes and municipal charges 0-058
MkoellaneouB 0*518
I>epreciation account 0'864
Total per car mile ^ 4*608
Table II.— Haj.le Electric Tramways.
Working Expen«tsfor Six Months ending Dec., 1891,
Average number of cars running 20*55
Total car mUes for six months 266,796
Average number of car miles per month 44,466
t» a I) M day 1,449*3
Dally average mileage for each day. per car 70*6
Total gross receipts for six months £5,354. 8s.
Average gross receipts per month £892. 8s.
Working Expenses, Pence.
Coal 0*3980
Waste, oil, and cleaning materials 0*1444
Wages and salaries 1*4430
General expenses 0*3930
Life insurances 0*0216
Maintonance of track and overhead conductors 0*0459
„ buUdings 0*0036
„ boilers and machinery 0*0120
„ cars 01480
„ workshops 0*0148
»
tt
Total working expenses per car mile 2*6243
Table III.— Blackpool Electric Tramway.
Working Expenses for 1891,
Total number of car miles for one year 98,000
Average car miles per month 8,166*6
Gross receipts for one year £7,241
Per
Repairing centre channel
„ roadway
Rent, at 6^ per cent, of cost of line to Corporation
Repairs of armatures, fittings
Decorating and plumber's work
Fire and TOiler insurance
Ground rent
Waffee of drivers, conductors, engineer, ticket clerk, etc.
CoaJ, oil, waste, etc
Waterandgas
.Rates and income tax
Printing and stationery
Salaries of directors, secretary, auditors, and clerks
Compensation for damages
Miscellaneous
car mile.
Pence.
0*345
0*452
1773
0*461
0189
0019
0*125
3*260
0*714
0*223
0*874
0*076
1*187
0*016
0*197
Total working expenses per car mile 9*911
Ratio of operating expenses 57*8%
Table IV.— Florence and Fiesole Electric Railway.
Working Expenditure, based on an A verage of 600 Gar Kilometres,
or S75 Car Miles, per Day. Per car mile.
Pence.
Traffic — ^Eleven guardq and three inspectors 0*960
Bfaintenanoe-— Inspector, foreman, and ei^ht men 0*680
Motive power — Wages at generating station 0*386
Ten oar drivers 0*898
Foely one ton per day at £1. 128. per ton 1*003
Water, oil, repairs, and sundries 0*513
Depreciation and renewals — Boilers 7 per cent., electric
plant 8 per cent., cars 5 per cent., line 1 per cent 2*060
General charges— Rates and taxes, office, and administra-
tion 1*050
Totolpercar mile 7*570
Table V. — Working Expenses of Five Representative
American Electric Tramways.
No. 1.
Per car
mile.
Permanent way.
Maintenanceof road-bed
and track
Maintenance of line ..
Maintenaiuie o/jwwer
plant.
Repairs of engines and
boilers
Repairs of dynamos
Miscellaneous repairs.
Cost of potver.
Fuel
Wages at generating
station
Oil and waste
Water
Other supplies
Maintenaaice of rolling-
stock.
Machine shops, and re-
pairs to motors and
cars
Transportation expenses.
Wagesof conductors and
I • » • • t • t
motor men
Miscellaneous wac:es for
inspectors, trackmen,
ana cleaners
Accidents to persons
and property
OenercU expenses.
Insurance
Salaries, etc
Office expenses
Advertismg, printing,
legal, and miscella-
neous expenses
Total expenses per car
mile
}
d.
0*225
0*035
0 018
0008
0*335
0*296
0*032
0*046
0*005
No. 2.
Per
car
mile.
No. 3. No. 4.
Per
car
Per car
mile.
mile.
0*922
2*318
0*526
0*013
I 0*766 I
0021
0*035
5*601
I
I
0*335 :
0075
d.
0*475
0*100
0*055
0007
0118
0*483
0*186
0*077
0035
0010
0*414
1*778
0159
0*053
0*094
0*324
0014
4*217
I 0*195 \
0*822
0*212
I 0102 j
1*503
2*236
0095
I 0*230 I
0*081
0*094
6*145
d.
0*085
0*105
0013
0*013
0*019
0*345
0196
0*029
0027
1*162
2*516
0*018
0*036
0*272
6*693
No. 5.
Per
car
mile.
d.
0*050
0*030
0*036
0*008
0*004
1*073
0*437
0109
0*147
0116
5-529
0*293
1*826
1*234
0*003
0*084
0*685
0-035
0*131
6*301
Table VI.— West End Railway Cobipany of Boston.
Working Expenses for Five Months ending August, 1891,
Electric Traction. Horse Traction.
Gross receipts £29,337 6s £78,779 4s.
Track and car expenses 9,030 8 26,729 6
Motive power 5,733 0 2.3,949 0
Total operating expenses 16,274 2 55,043 4
MUes run 375,474*8 1,093,808*2
Ratio of mileage 25*75% 74 26%
Ratio of operating expenses 55*47% 69*87%
Total expenses per mile run .... 10*41d 12*0^.
Gross receipts per mile run 18*76d 17*26d.
ELECTRO-HARMONIC SOCIETY.
A smoking concert will be held on Friday, April 1, at the St.
James's HaU Restaurant (Banquet-room), Regent-street, W., at
eight o'clock. Artistes : Mr. H. Lester, Mr. Albert James, Mr.
Fred vValker, Mr. R. Hilton ; flute, Mr. F. Griffiths ; at the
piano, Mr. Alfred E. Izard ; violins, Mr. W. H. Eayres, Mr. W.
Richardson, Mons. Jacques Greebe, Mr. T. E Gatehouse ;
humorous, Mr. Fred. Cozens. Musical directors : Mr. T. E.
Gatehouse and Mr. Alfred E. Izard. A Broadwood piano will
be used.
Programme— Part L
Part Song.. *' Come, Boys ! Drink and Merry be"...H. Marschner.
Messrs. H. Lester, A. James, F. Walker, and R. Hilton.
Flute Solo '* Ungarische Fantaisie " Andersen.
Mr. F. Griffiths.
Old Song ** The Birds in the Spring "...(Arranged by W. A.
Barrett.)
Mr. Albert James.
^r/vtoUnr} •• Andante "-"AUegro" Maarer.
Messrs. Gatehouse, Eayres, Richardson, and Greebe.
Irish Song *< Four Miles from Tralee " Lester.
Mr. H. Lester.
Part Song " The Sailor's Song " Hatton.
Humorous Sketch
Mr. Fred. Cozens.
•310
THE ELECTRICAL ENGll^EER, MARCH 25, 1892.
Part II.
Part Song *< The Image of theRoee" Reichardt.
Solo, Mr. Albert James.
Flute Solo *• Saltarella " E. German.
Mr. F, Griffiths.
New Song '* Kings of the Road " F. Bevan.
Mr. R Hilton.
F^u^Vio^^^^ " Camaval de Venise •' Dancla.
Messrs. Gatehouse, Eayres, Richardson, and Greebe.
PartSong "KingCanute " Sir S. A. Macfarren.
Duett -Flute and Piano "Sonata" Handel.
Messrs. F. Griffiths and A. Izard.
Humorous Selection
Mr. Fred. Cozens.
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
DIRECT SPANISH TELEGRAPH COMPANY.
The ordinary general meeting of this Company was held on
Tuesday at Wincnester House, Sir James Anderson, chairman,
presiding.
In moving the adoption of the report, the Chalrmaii reminded
shareholders, with reference to the aecrease of £2,214 in the traffic
receipts as compared with those for the December half of 1890,
that ne had at previous meetings foreshadowed some such result
as inevitable if the tariff were further diminished. He did not
know of any authentic instance of a reduction of tariff leading to
an increase of revenue until several years of commercial growth
had elapsed. In fact, it was an axiom in telegraphy that all reduc-
tions of tariff must result in a loss at the beginning. Naturally,
however, if they reduced the tariff they broadened the basis from
which telegraphy might grow, and they might in most cases
gradually recoup their loss in a few years, always provided that
the reduction had been sufficient to give a substantial
impulse. The halfpenny per word, however, which had been
taken from this Company's proportion of 2^d. per word
upon their Spanish traffic had simply resulted in a loss
01 £1,760. A halfpenny per word could have no effect in retarding
or increasing external telegraphic traffic. However, they did aU
they could at the Telegraph (Conference, and both our Post Office
ana the Spanish officials did what they could ; but they might
hope, now that the result was again shown, that they would not
continue to reduce the tariffs, and so make it impossible to main-
tain submarine cables by private enterprise. All the contingency
fund had gone, and £2,.f76 of their reserve in addition for the pur-
pose of repairing their cables. He might say that he had seldom
known of a more fortunate repair than theirs. Their Bilbao
cable developed a bad fault at the end of October, and at
the end of November — one of their worst winter months— it
was repaired in 1,900 fathoms, near the Bay of Biscay. It
was totally interrupted for only three days, but, fortunately, the
Eastern Telegraph Company had a ship at Lisbon, and did not lose
an hour. He had known such repairs to require several months
before they could be effected at such a season. They hoped to
replace out of future profits the £2,376 which they had taken from
the reserve, for the traffic was growing, and the Directors did not
bind themselves to pay any given dividend if the traffic should
not warrant it. He was trying to believe that the public found
that they could not do without the telegraph ; and 4d. per word,
with a three minutes' transmission to Bilbao and 20 minutes' to
Madrid, represented facilities which ought to stimulate traffic if
anything could do so.
The motion was seconded by Mr. Edmnnd EtUnger and carried.
COMPANIES' REPORTS.
COMMERCIAL CABLE COMPANY.
The annual meeting of this Comimny took place in New York
on Monday. The following is a synopsis of the report which
was submitted and adopted : The year's earnings amounted
to 1, 904,7 17dols, and the working and other expenses for the year
amounted to 819,392dols., leaving a balance of l,085,325dol8.
Dividends of 1} per cent, each were paid for the quarters ending
March, June, September, and December, being a total of 7 |3er
cent, on the capital stock of 7,716,OOOdols., and absorbing
540,120dols. The balance of the year's profit, amounting to
545,204dols., together with 29,796dols. from the profit and loss
account of 1890, aggregating 575,000dols. , was transferred to the
reserve fund. On t^nuary 15, 1891, debenture bonds were
redeemed to the amount of 600,0()0dols. , and provision was made
for the redemption of 600,000dols. of bonds on January 15, 1892.
ELECTRIC CONSTRUCTION CORPORATION.
An extraordinary general meeting of this Corporation was hold
on Tuesday at Worcester House, Walbrook, when the resolution
pcussed at tne last meeting, for increasing the capital of the Com-
pany to £750,000 by the creation of 25,(K)0 new shares of £10 each
{vide Electrical Engineer for the 11th inst.), was confirmed. A
resolution was also passed to the effect that the increased capital
should be issued in the form of preference shares, entitling the
holders thereof to a cumulative dividend at the rate of 7 per cent,
per annum on the amounted credited as paid up thereon in priority
to any dividend on the ordinary and founders shares of the Com-
pany. It was stated on behalf of the Directors that they did not
propose to issuo the whole amount at once, and believed that their
present requiremente would be met by £75 000 at the most.
LONDON ELECTRIC SUPPLY CORPORATION.
The following report of the Directors and of the Engineer to
the Corporation for the year 1891 will be submitted to the fifth
ordinary general meeting of the proprietors, to be held at Cannon-
street Hotel this (Friday) morning.
Directors* Report, — The engineer's report appended hereto
describes in detail the general position of the works. The result
of the year's working was adversely affected by the fire which
took place at the Grosvenor distributing station on the 15th
November, 1890, which caused an entire cessation of the lighting
for a space of three months. After supply was resumed on the
16th February, 1891, it was found that many of the Corporation's
old customers had resorted to other companies. Although a con-
siderable amount of new business has been gradually acquired, it
was only towards the end of the year that the number of lights
installea equalled those connected at the time of the fire. Advan-
tage was taken of this interruption to business to reorganise the
system of distribution. The whole of the overhead cables were
removed and concentric underground cables substituted ; at the
same time the distributing mains were extended to many districts
in the authorised area of supply which had not previously been
touched, and where there is good prospect of remunerative business
being obtained. The extension of electric lighting generally has
been less rapid than was anticipated, but the light is undoubtedly
growing in public favour. The greatly improved supply now
^ven by the Corporation gives reason for anticipating a material
increase of business during the current year. As referred to in
the engineer's report, measures are being taken by which the cost
of producing the current will be very materially diminished, and
the efiiciency of the generating plant increased. During the year
the engagement of Mr. de Ferranti has ceased by efliuxion of time.
Mr. P. W. D'Alton, the chief assistant to Mr. de Ferranti during
the construction of the generating station, has been appointed
chief engineer. The Directors retiring, as provided by the articles
of association, are Mr. James Staats Forbes and the Honourable
Regins^d Brougham, both of whom are eligible for re-election.
The auditors, Messrs. Kemp, Ford, and Co., who retire in accord-
ance with the articles of association, offer themselves for re-
election.
Engineer' g Beport.— At the commencement of the year 1891,
owing to the fire at the Grosvenor station in November, 1890,
when much of your transformer plant and other apparatus was
destroyed or seriously damaged, your central station at Deptford
was supplying no current. When supply was resumed on Feoruary
16, 1891, only 9,000 lights were at once installed, and the number
gradually increased to 36,000 by the end of the year. In the
interval the two dynamos, each of 625 h.p., were removed from the
Grosvenor station and erected at Deptford, with two new tandem
compound horizontal engines. Until August last these dynamos
furnished the supply unassisted, the current, generated at
2,400 volts, being transformed up to 10,000 volts, and at that
pressure transmitted to the distributing stations in London. The
two dynamos, each of 1,250 h.p., which, prior to November, 1890,
had supplied current direct to the mains at a pressure of 5.000
volts, were, during the latter end of 1890 and the early part of last
year, altered to generate current at 10,000 volts. An unsuccessful
attempt to run one of them was made towards the end of July, but
they were not ready for work until the 10th of August, about
which time I took over the duties of engineer-in-chief. Since then
all these machines have been in work, the larger ones generating
current at 10,000 volts. During the past autumn considerable
difficulties were experienced in working the 10,000-volt system,
and there were occasional failures of the dynamos, high-tension
transformers, and trunk mains, many of which were due to the
e resent arrangements for working the machines in paralleL
rnfortunately these failures have caused interruption of supply on
several occasions, but measures have been, or are now being
taken by which it is believed these difficulties will be over-
come. For the last four months there has been great improve-
ment, and breakdowns have been of very rare occurrence.
A number of faults occurred in the trunk mains during the year,
but they are now causing us less trouble and anxiety. I am of
opinion that such faults are more or less inseparable from any new
system, and that they will eventually be eliminated. During the
first four months after the resumption of supply the failures were
numerous ; during a second similar period tney diminished to less
than half, and latterly they have been gradually ceasing. Similar
troubles were experienced with the high-tension transformers, but
as the year advanced the failures became less frequent, owing to
careful repairs, and during the last four months we have had but
one failure. A few months since we established at Deptford a new
department, where we repair transformers and make various parts
of machines for maintenance and renewals. The work alroady
turned out by the department is equal to anything we have had
done by outside contractors, and superior to most of the work
supplied to us ; at the same time a considerable saving in money is
efiected, and work is more promptly done. TheworkontnelO,000-h.p.
dynamos was sus^iended in May last by your order, but the parts of
the machines have been properly protectee! and are in good condition.
The distributing mains have been greatly extended auring the past
year, and, as there are now upwards of 27 miles laid, a large
increase in the volume of business may reasonably be anticipated.
They are in a thorougii state of efficiency, and have causea bat
little expense for maintenance or repair. The permanent switching
gear is now being erected at the distributing stations, and wlU
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 25, 1892.
311
shortly be completed. AC two of tbe Btatioos it is already in uk,
»nd ie working satiflfactorily. Tbe engineB and boilere have been
kept in good working order. The two seta of generating plant of
B3o h.p. cannot bo worked M> tlieir full capacity owing to fauUy
design, in Eoosequence of which it isimpoBBible to produce a larger
output than 8,500 to 9,000 lights from each. This defect ie about
to be remedied to a considerable extent at a moderate outlay. A
scheme for condensing blie exhaust steam has been approved by
VOD, and I am getting forward with the preparations for the work.
When completro, which I hope it will be by July next, it will
greatly improve the running of the engines, and will have the
effect of saring at least 25 per cent, of the consumption of coal.
(Signed) P. WiLTEn D'Alton, engineer- in -chief.
CArrrAL ArtorNT fiir Year bvpinu Dikembee 31, 1891.
Total Expenditure to December 31, 1891.
4 10
£648,169 IT 2
Buildings, freehold land, and general construction
account at T>eptford.
Plant and machinery at Deptford
lioins, including Che cost of laying
Purchase of the nasinesB at Sir Coutts Lindsay and
Co., Limited, including plant and machinery at
Groavonor station, goodwill,
Transformers
Meters
^Electrical instrumenlB*
Coat of provisional order
ToolB
Distributing atatioDB
.<«rationB to offices and atore^
December 3Ut. 1891
Leas depreciation
Office furniture, less depreciatioi
148,096 I S
12,082 S 2
753,428 1 S
£797,680
Cr. £
Ordinary Bha res, 111,000 of £5 555,000
Preference shares, 49,840 of £5, £5
paid £249,200 0 0
Less calls in arrear (of which
£9,50 has since been paid)... 6,680 0 0
— 242,520
Forfeited shares 160
£797,88
Revesite AcC'ol-M' for the Ykar esdino Dkcembek 31,
Dr. A.— To Generation of Electricity. £
Ckwl or other fuel, including dues, carriage,
unloading, storing, and all expenses of placing
same on the works 4,41
Oil, waste, water, and engine-room stores 1,IG
Balaries of engineers, superintendents, and officers 6(
Wages and allowances at generating station 2,K
Repairs and maintenance as follows :
I. BulldingB £199 2 0
2 Engines and boilers 4*14 7 H
;t. Dynamos and exciters 663 10 0
4. Other machinery and tools 129 13 8
5. Transformerx and accessories .. 105 8 10
B.^To Di"tribution of Electricity.
Salariesof superintcndcntsand officers 366 10 0
Wages and allowances to Unesmen.
fitters, etc. 1,061 3 4
Repairs, maiuienance, and renewals
of mains of all cUJwes, including
materials, and laying the same ;
also way leaves 1,17B K 4
Repairs, maintenance, and renewale
of transformers, meters, suitchcs,
fuses, and other apjiarntus, on con-
sumers'premises 660 7 II
C— To Rents, Rates, and Taxes.
RentBpayable 1,436 3 5
Ratei and taxes 1.397 0 I'l
D.— To Manafteroent Expenses.
Dir<K!lor«' remuneration 1,374 19 11
Salaries of secretary, engineers,
accountant, clerks, and meessngers .3,020 IT 7
Stationery and printing 189 16 2
General establishment charges 614 3 6
Auditors T'2 3 9
E. —To Law and Parliamentary Charges.
Law expenses 626 7 II
Compensation claims 47 15 5
Stores at 3l8t December, 1890
Sale of current per meter, at 7Jd. per B. T. U
Sale of current under contracts
Rental of meters, converters, and other apparatus,
on consumers' premises
Sale and repairs of other apiKiratus
Transfer fees,,,
Running st<ires on hand at December 31st, 1891
Balance
Nkt Revenue ArrorvT eob the Twelve Moirriis esdiso
Dr. December 31, 1891. £ s, d
Depreciation on alterations to ollicea and stores 262 12 i
,, „ office furniture 43 11
Revenue account balance 6,957 I
£7,263 5 I
Balance from last aooo
Interoston deposits., .
Balance
Dr. Ge.vb&ai. Balance-sheet to Deo. 31, 1891. £
Capital account ; Amount raoeived as per account
given above 797,6
Sundry tradesmen and others, due on construction
of plant and machinery, fuel, stores, etc,, to 3lHt
December, 1891 5,9
Sundry creditors on open accounts 8,2;
Bills payable 6,9:
Reserve fund account balance
£818,875 6 0
Capital account : Amount ex[)ended for works as
per account given above 753,428
Cosh at bankers —
Measra. Coutts and Co £1,743 19 6
Messrs. lityn. Mills, Currie, and Co l,06fi 9 3
Londonand CountyBank,Deptford 217 U 1
Cash in hand
Cost of redeeming debentures .
Preliminary expenses
Sundry debtors for current
Other debtors
43
ining St
n hand December 31, 1891 .
BUSINESS NOTES.
-The
of tbe
RemoTOl at Offloea.-
Company, Limitet), have been ri
Brood-street, E.C.
London Klaotrlo Supply Corporation. —The fifth ordinary
^neral meeting of this Company uill be hold at 12 noon to day
(Friday) at Cannon-street Hotel.
ForaonoL- Messrs Pritchiird and Co., civil engineers, of London
and Birmingham, have removed their London oHjcea from 2,
Storey's, gate, to Westminster -chambers, I, Victoria-street, West-
Braali Companjr.-Witb reference to the issue of 4] per cent,
debentures of this Company, ns not«d in last week's Sttririr.ai
Eayiiiter, we ore informed that lett«rsof allotment and regret were
posted on Wednesday evening last.
West India and Panama Tategrapli Company.— The receipts
for the half-month ended March 15 were £2,908, against £2,986
ill the corresponding period of lost year. The November receipts,
ostimatod at £4,642, realised £4,6;'i0.
Appointment. — The Brush Electrical Engineering Company
bus appointed Mr. L. Alwyn, who was till lately engineer in
charge of Messrs. Laiiig. Wharton, and Down's City installation
works, to be their sole City agent, at 63, Queen Victoria -street.
312
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MARCH 25, 1892.
City And South London Railway. —The receipts for the week
ending 20th March were £897, against £767 for the same period
last year, showing an increase of £130. The receipts for last week
showed an increase of £21 as compared with those for the week
ending March 13.
BoMrdmaa's Kleotrio Snn Lamp Patent, Limited. — Registered
by C. £. Baker, 22, Great George-street, Westminster, with a
capital of £10,000 in £5 shares. Object : to carry on the basiness
of an electric light and power and manufacturing company in all
its branches. Registered without articles of association.
Western and Brajdlian Telegraph Company.— The receipts
for 10 weeks ended March 4 amounted to £33,917, and for the
week ended March 11 to £2,872. The Directors have decided to
resume the publication of the receipts, which was discon-
tinued in the latter part of last year owmg to the fact that the
information might be utilised by competing lines.
Kntnal Telephone Company. — The business of this Company
was taken over by the New Telephone Company on Wedne^ay
last. The business of the exchange will be carried on as usual by
the late staff of the Mutual Telephone Company, with Mr. A. H.
Bennett as general manager. The March list of subscribers
in Manchester already speaking, which will be issued shortly^ will
contain over 1,100 names
Rookhampton (Qneenaland). — The report of the Directors of
the Rockhampton Gas and Coke Company for the seven months
ended December 31 last, which was adopted at the half-yearly
meeting of shareholders held on the 4th ult., contains the follow-
ing : Smce the last general meeting of shareholders, the Directors
have taken a definite step in the matter of the electric light. After
careful consideration it was decided to instruct the Company's
London agents to invite applications for the position of electrical
engineer to the Company, and out of a large number of applicants
Mr. A. E. Neal, formerly of Birmingham, was selected. He has
reported on the systems of electric lighting most suitable for Rock-
hampton. As the early introduction of the electric light will be
advantageous to the Company in a variety of ways, the Directors have
decided to proceed with it without delay , and have accordingly pur-
chased a quartor of an acre of land in Alma-street, between William
and Denham streets, for the erection of the works. Upon the frontage
of this sito general offices and showrooms will be erected for the
convenience of the numerous customers in both sections of the
Company's business, and the Directors are strongly of opinion
that the removal of the offices to a more central position than the
E resent one will be conducive to an increase ol business. The
directors have undertaken to supervise, through the electrical
engineer, the electric light operations at the Mount Morgan Gold
Mining Company's Works.
Perth Tramways.— The prospectus of the Perth and District
Tramways Company, Limited, has been issued asking for a capital
of £15,000, divided into 3,000 shares of £5 each, which are now
offered for subscription, pavable, lOs. per share on application, 10s.
per share un allotment, ana the balance in calls as may be required.
The Directors are : William S. Ferguson, Esq , Pietstonhill, J. P.
for the county of Perth ; Petor Campbell, Esq., of Lingwood,
New Scone ; Bailie David Macgregor, Laurel Bank, Perth,
J. P. ; Robert P. Shields, Esq., manufacturer, Perth ; James
C. Orchar, Esq. (of Messrs. Hobertsen and Orchar, engineers.
Dundee), Angus Lodge, Broughty Ferry, J. P. for the county of
Forfar. Bankers : The Bank of Scotland, Perth, and
head offices and branches. Solicitors : R. and J. Robertson
and Dempstor,Town and County Bank Buildings, Perth. Auditon* :
J. and R. Moriaon, accountants, Perth. Secretary, pro tern. : John
Mackay, New Scone. Registered office : 27, South Methvenstreet,
Perth. The Company has been formed for the purpose of con-
structing and working tramways in the city of Perth, and between
that city and New Scone and other places in the surrounding
district. The Company is applying to the Board of Trade for a
provisional order for con£tructing and working on the electric accu-
malatorsystem tramways from Gutsgow-road through Perth to New
Scone, and the necessary consents have been obtained therefor. The
estimated revenue is £1,901, and expenditure £1,159, leaving a net
profit of £742, which, after paying a dividend of 4 per cent., will
leave a balance of £142. The estimated cost of construction is
£13,500.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1892.
4949.
4961.
4988.
4992.
5002.
5052.
Maboh 14.
Tbe geneimtioii of aleotrloity for aleetric Ughtliig and
otber pnipoaea. Arthur Francis Willman, 1, Avonmore-
road, West Kensington, London.
Zmproyamento In slide rertetanees for electrical pur-
poaea. Alexander Muirhead, 124, Chancery- lane, London.
(Complete specification.)
ZmproTeimento in eleotrio-oiroiiit oloaera. Charles Ernest
Thomson, 45, Southampton-buildings, London.
Zmprevemeata in insnlated eleotrio oondnotors and
means to lie employed in their prodaetien. Henry
Edmunds, 47> Lincoln's-inn-fields, London.
Improrements in sleetrioal oondnotors and moans for
Inying the same. George Wilkinson, 11, Furnival-street,
Holbom, London.
March 15.
Bioetrioallj-drivon wliippor for eggs, oroams, saaoos. and
the piiBS. George Davis, 3, Palace-place, Buckingham-
gate, London.
5086.
5096.
5141.
5186.
5245.
5266.
5.311.
5365.
5380.
5383.
5409.
5432.
5442.
5474.
Impro¥omonts in olootrio Idoek sicaAUiBg appamtns.
WiUiam PhiUiiw HaU, 45, Southampton-boUdings, London.
(Complete specification. )
Printing t^lograplis. Edward Jennings Silkman, 24,
Southampton-buildings, London. (Complete speoificatioo.)
March 16.
Knltiplo foaos and switeh for nso in Olootrio oireoftts.
Charles Scott Snell and Woodhouse and Rawson United,
Limited, 88, Queen Victoria-street, London.
Improvements in olootrio aro lampa. Ladislas Lencsewski,
46, Lincoln's-inn-fields, London.
March 17.
Improvements in the prodnotion of oanstio soda and
oarlionato of soda by olootroiysis, and in apparatas
therefor. James Pedder, 16, Dowardstreet, Appleton-in-
Widnes, Lancashire.
Improvements in the moohanioal ooastmetlen of dynamo
armatures. Gerald Percival, 30, Old Georges-street, Cork.
Improvements relating to the oonatmotion of olootrodos
for eleotrolytio purposes. James Cliarles RichardaoQ,
6, Bream's-building, London.
March 18.
Improvements in Jointe for olootrio light fittings. Mnnro's
EltTCtrical Manufacturing 0)mpany, Limited, and James
McFarlane, 154, St. Vincent-street, Glasgow.
An improvement in pendant olootroliors for eioetrlo
lighting. George William Ready and John Palfreeman,
Engineers' Department, Royal Courts of Justice, London.
Improvemeuts in the moans of synohronising alternating-
enrrent dynamos and of working them in parallel and
taking them ont of parallel. John Augustine Kingdon,
29, Marlborough-hill, London.
Improvements in seoondary batteries. George Edward
Barker Pritohett and Theodore William Pritohett, 31,
Soho-square London.
March 19.
An improved antomatlo oleeirie soonrity look. Edward
Daniel Taylor, 65a, Cathnorroad, Goldhawk-road, Shep-
herd's Bush, London.
Improvements in galvanic batteries. James Frederick
Bennett and Frarcis Arnold Colley, Bank- buildings,
George-street, Sheffield.
An improved inoandosoont aro lamp. Arthur Hirsch,
57, Chancery-lane, London.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1890.
20992. Kleotrio bells. Jone^.
1891.
4064. Eleotrioity motors. Hookham.
4306 Dynamo-elootrio generators. Boggett.
5167 Uakiag tnbes by olootroiysis. F. £. and A. S. Elmore.
5.342. Sleotrioal thermometers. Callendar.
5947. Inoandosoont eleotrio lamps. Chapman.
6517. Kleotrio ligbt switohes. Dorman and Smith.
6978. Dynamo-electrio maobines. Boult. (Stone. )
7283. Telegraphy and telephony. Bennett.
7331. Telephonlo apparatus. Abel. (Societ<' (l^'neraie dtis Tele-
phones. )
8151. Distribnting alternating oorrents. Siemens Bros, and
('om|)any. Limited. (Siemens and Halske.)
8227. Kleotrio aooamnlators. Thompson. (Tudor. )
10451. Kleotrio light, eto. posts. Haywood and Driver.
1892.
1391. Coating articles by eleotro-deposition. London Metal-
lurgical Company, Limited, and Cowper Coiet*.
1396. Kleotrio oirenit breaker. Eichler.
1484 Seoondary batteries. Entz and Phillips.
1580. Kleotrio low-water alarm Mathews.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARj^ LIST.
Brush Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, Outta Percha k Telegraph Co
House-to-HouBe
Metropolitan Elleotric Supply
London Ellectric Snpply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Electric Construction
Westminster Electric
Liverpool Electric Supply |
Price
Paid.
Wednei
day
^^^
H
—
•^i
10
201
5
5
-^
9
b
u
Si
44
H
h
H
10
6
—
«
5
5
8
3
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL I, 1892.
313
NOTES.
The Klectro-Harmonlo smoking concert takes place
to-night.
Kdinburffh Kzhibition. — The guarantee fund to the
amount of £26,084, out of £26,559, has been realised.
Matlook Tramway. — ^A cable tramway is to be begun
at Matlock.
IntemrlMUi Telephony. — Telephonic communication
between Newcastle and London will be shortly established.
Panama, — Messrs. Siemens, says the BuUeiin IrUer-
naUanalf are constructing an electric tramway at Panama.
Depntationa — The Mayor and members of the
Halifax Corporation visited Bradford electric station last
week.
Aoonmnlators. — A paper on *' Electric Accumulators "
was read last week by Mr. H. M. Waynforth at the Mason
College, Birmingham.
Coast Oommnnioation. — Sir Ed. Birkbeck has asked
for an early day for a debate on electric communication to
lightships and lighthouses.
DoTor. — ^The terms of the contract beti^een the Dover
Corporation and the Brush Company have been definitely
settled, and the agreement drawn up.
Institution. — ^The discussion of Mr. Rackeru^un's
paper on " Load Diagrams of Electric Railways " will be
continued before the Institution on Thursday, April 7th.
Leeds Tramways. — A stoppage occurred last week
on the Leeds e lectric tramways owing to a cylinder head
being blown out of the engine. The cars were put on next
day.
Wandsworth. — ^The Wandsworth Board of Works
have received a communication from the Board of Trade
revoking the Wandsworth District Electric Supply Order of
1890.
Chiswiok. — As will be seen by their advertisement,
the Chiswick Local Board invite tenders for the transfer or
lease of the electric lighting powers. Tenders to be sent
in by May 4th.
Taunton. — At the Council meeting held to consider the
question of purchasing the electric light undertaking, it
was decided to have the advice of an expert, at a cost not
exceeding 50 guineas.
Crystal Palaee Oonoert. — ^A very enjoyable smoking
concert was held last Friday in the Grand Saloon, Crystal
Palace, by the electrical exhibitors. It is proposed to
make the concerts a regular feature.
Berlin Kleotrio Railway. — To demonstrate the
possibility of using electric traction on the Berlin under-
ground railway, the Allgemeine Company propose to
construct a trial line outside the city.
Royal Institution. — The following papers will be given
before the Boyal Institution. On May 20, J. W. Swan,
M.A., on " Electro- Metallurgy " ; on June 10, Prof. Dewar,
F.R.S., on " Magnetic Properties of Liquid Oxygen."
Rome Tramoars. — Accumulator cars are being tried
at Rome, the accumulators being supplied by the Oerlikon
Company, of Zurich. The cars are run up to 19 miles an
hour, and are charged every second day, doing 47 miles
a day.
Kinffswood. — At the meeting of the Local Board of
Kingswood, near Bristol, Mr. Parfitt, jun., of the firm of
Parfitt and Son, Keynsham, who are supplying the electric
light, attended undertook to have the main road lighted
this week.
Hospital flighting. — ^The London hospitals are rapidly
adopting the electric light. Among the important medical
charities where the light is being used are the Middlesex,
Westminster, St Greorge's, and King's College Hospitals.
Others doubtless will follow.
Aoorington. — The electric lighting scheme for Accring*
ton shows signs of falling through owing to the lack of
interest shown by tradesmen and large consumers of gas.
It would appear that the price for the electric light has
frightened most of the tradesmen.
Johannesberg. — ^The'Johannesberg branch of Wood
house and Bawson has carried out the first contract for
lighting in that town, have prepared plans and supervised
the erection of lighting plant for Pretoria, and has also
supplied and erected plant for a number of mining companies.
Giant's Oanseway Aooident. — At Derry Assises
Mr. and Mrs. Hall, who were injured by jumping from the
electric cars at Giant's Causeway from fear of collision with
a steam car, claimed £2,000 damages, and were awarded
£375, of which Mr. Hall was allowed £15, and the balance
went to his wife.
West of England Telephones.— The Western
Counties and South Wales telephone wires have suffered
extensively in the recent snowstorms, which were very
severe in the West of England. Notwithstanding, this 40
miles of new wire have been erected in the Three Towns
within the past month.
Leetore on Kleotrioity. — On Thursday evening,
24th inst., before the Dulwich Literary and Scientific
Association, a popular lecture, entitled " Electricity and its
Uses," was given by Mr. W. Perren Maycock, M.I.KE., at
the Central Hall, Dulwich. Mr. H. J. Powell, B.A.,
L.C.C., occupied the chair.
Rome. — On the 31st December, 1891, the Anglo-Roman
Electric Light Company had a network of primary wires
of 20,457 metres, and secondary 4,517 metres. They had
in operation 152 transformers and 109 meters. There were
12,713 lamps installed, of which 353 were arcs and 12,360
incandescents, representing a value of 16,827 16-c.p. lamps.
Bamsley. — The Barnsley Lighting Committee have
paid a visit to Bradford for the purpose of inspecting the
electric light station. Mr. Waddington, at the last meeting
of the Town Council, said the committee were as anxious
as ever to introduce the electric light. They were
acting in the interests of the ratepayers, and would report
shortly.
Personal. — Mr. Francis G. Bailey, whom many will
know as having been recently engineer in charge of the
model electrically-lighted theatre at the Crystal Palace, and
other work for Messrs. Siemens Bros, and Co., is now
leaving that company to take the ^st of assistant lecturer
and demonstrator under Dr. Oliver Lodge at University
College, Liverpool.
Moy HalL — This Highland home, near Inverness, is
being electrically lighted by Mr. A. A. C. Swinton for its
proprietor, the Mackintosh of Mackintosh. Water power
will be employed to drive the dynamo, the turbine being
situated at a distance of about half a mile from the house.
The installation will comprise about 160 incandescent
lights and a battery of accumulators.
Kleotrio Hoists and Pampa— Mr. John Ritchie, in
a paper before the Scottish Society of Arts, dwelt strongly
upon the fact that the electric motor is a highly efficient
machine, and is much better adapted and mere economical
than steam for hoisting purposes. Mr. E. A. Browning
similarly advocated the use of electric motors for pumping
I in collieries. Both papers were well received.
-I
314
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 1, 1892.
Hortloiiltiiral Kzhibition. — The Brush Electrical
Engineering Company, Limited, haye contracted for the
supply of electric light plant and accessories for the forth-
coming International Horticultural Exhibition to be held
at Earl's Court The actual lighting arrangements will be
under the control of Mr. A. H. Wood, electrical engineer to
the EarPs Court Exhibition Syndicate, Limited.
Lonff-Dlstanoe Telephony — ^The New York corre-
spondent of the Western Morning News telegraphs from
New York on Wednesday : " The Bell Telephone Company
having completed its arrangements for increasing its
capital, has now decided that as soon as this has been
subscribed, the work of developing the long-distance
system shall be taken in hand and pushed forward with
energy. "
' Rouen. — The central station of Rouen is to be consider-
ably extended, and the new plant will be established in an
ancient church which has been purchased by the company.
Two 500-h.p. Farcot engines and four dynamos by Heil
man and Co., licensees of Mr. C. E. Brown's patents.
These are the first Brown dynamos installed in France, and
probably the first dynamos in the world erected within the
precincts of a church.
Wrexham. — At the monthly meeting of the Wrexham
Town Council, Alderman John Jones moved that the town
clerk be instructed to write to the electrical company
of Wrexham to enquire what pi ice they wanted for
their undertaking, as it was desirable in the growing
requirements of Wrexham to become possessed of such a
property. The Mayor (Mr. Frederic W. Soames) seconded
the motion, which was carried.
Subways for London. — We notice that the electric
lighting companies are opposing the London County
Council's Subways Bill, which is now being considered by a
Select Committee of the House of Commons. In this we
think they are mistaken. It is a temporising policy, which,
in the long run, will probably prove expensive and bad.
Subways must sooner or later be adopted on a large scale,
and it seems to us the sooner the better.
Stamford. — The Special Committee of the Stamford
Corporation for negotiating with the gas company have
not recommended the insistance on a clause for the purchase
of the gas works, Mr. Bowman remarking that it was
doubtful whether it would be wise to recommend any
corporation in the present day to purchase gas works ; he
thought the electric light would have to be first considered.
This met with a warm agreement on the part of other
members.
Dundee. — Plans for the new electric central station for
Dundee have been drawn up by Mr. W. Alexander, the
architect for the buildings, and were submitted last Monday
to the Works Committee of the Dundee Gas Commissioners.
The elevation shows a neat and well-proportioned one-
storey stone building with gables. A basement will be used
for accumulators, pumps, etc. The front will contain offices,
and the engines and dynamos will be placed in an adjacent
machinery-house at the back.
Kleotrio Mininar. — On Friday last the electric light at
the Butterley Company's new colliery, at Kirkby -in -Ash-
field, was successfully started by Mr. Colson, engineer of
the Electric Power and Traction Company, who have the
contract. The lighting at present is confined to the
engine-houses, shops, and screens. Cables are being laid
down the shaft to light the pit bottom and underground
roads. There is also a pumping plant to be worked by
electricity in course of erection.
Crystal Palaoe Distriet. — ^The Beckenham Local
Board have refused the application of the Crystal Palace
and District Electric Supply Company for permission to
place a transformer substation under the roadway at
Sydenham-avenue, and have also resolved to consult Prof.
Kennedy on the subject of expert supervision of the electric
lighting works in the district of Beckenham with a view to
the protection of public property, especially with regard to
the disturbance of road surfaces.
Bradford Kleotrio Tramway. — ^Mr. Holroyd Smith
is busy perfecting the details of his electric tramway, now
experimentally working at Bradford. The cars are only
run late at night as yet. The hill with a rise of 1 in 13
to 24, and a curve of 64ft. radius, is the stiffest bit, and has
been climbed with a car of 6 J tons. The whole line is stiff.
After the curve is a straight run of 1 in 14, then a stretch
of 1 in 24, finally slackening to 1 in 60. This in 600
yards is no easy task, and the cars stop and start again on
any part.
Smoke ProTontion. — A smoke preventer, the inven-
tion of Mr. Chris. Andersen, of Leeds, was tested at
Neasden last Saturday. It consists of iron conduits laid
between the rails, with round spring trap-doors in each
length, the smoke being led below the locomotive to a
sliding conduit, which opens the traps, and the smoke is
sucked away by a Boots blower at a mile distance. The
invention acted well, but is costly — £2,000 a mile double
track. It is brought forward to enable steam to compete
with electric traction on underground railways.
Cable Maohinery. — Messrs. Thomas Barraclough and
Co., Manchester, with reference to our note on cable
machinery, write to say that the cable works at Milan
belonging to Messrs. Pirelli and Co. were fitted by them
with both indiarubber and guttapercha machinery, also
insulating, stranding and coring machines. They also
supplied for the Calais works the whole of the cabie-
sheathing, wire-winding, yarn-winding, and core-serving
machines. For the factory in the South of France they are
also supplying the larger portion of the machinery.
Chertsey. — The Board of Trade have received a com-
munication from the Chertsey Rural Sanitary Authority
respecting the application of the Weybridge Electric Supply
Company's proposed extension to Walton-on-Thames, in
which the Rural Authority gives its consent on '* the assump*
tion that the company will satisfy the Board of Trade that
they are in a position to fully and effectually discharge the
duties and obligations imposed upon them by the order of
July, 1891, which the Authority considers very desirable
in the interest of the district should be carried out.''
Hoddom Castle. — Mr. Edward Brook, of Hoddom,
has taken advantage of the execution of various additions
to his Dumfriesshire residence to introduce electric light to
Hoddom Castle. The dynamo is driven by a 9-h.p. gas
engine, which is supplied with gas made in Mr. Brook's gas
works, which are still used in the lighting of some of the
places about the Castle. There are in the various rooms
175 EdisonSwan lamps in all. In addition there is a
2,000-c.p. arc lamp arranged on a davit at the top of the
tower, which illuminates the courts and grounds of the
Castle and can be seen at several miles distance.
Kleotrio Saw-Mill. — An installation of wood-working
machinery for Lord Rothschild has just been erected at
Tring Park. The plant comprises band saw and circular
saw machines for converting logs, deals, etc., as also planing,
moulding, mortising, and tenoning machines, the whole of
which are driven by electric motors. The machinery has
been supplied by Messrs. A. Ransome and Co., of Chelsea,
and erected under the superintendence of the resident
engineer, Mr. C, Burman Callow. Although isolated
machines have been driven by electricity, it is believed
tHE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 1, 189^.
3lS
that this is the first complete saw-mill worked under these
conditions.
Worcester.— At the meeting of the Worcester Watch
Committee on Friday, the subject of electric lighting was
brought up for discussion, and it was resolved to instruct
the city surveyor to prepare a report on the subject of the
surplus water power of the Severn at Diglis Locks, with a
view to using it for generating electricity. Mr. W. H.
Preece, who is acting as the committee's adviser, the engi-
neer of the Brush Electrical Company, and the surveyor
were requested to attend the next meeting of the City
Council, when the subject is to be fully discussed. An
abstract of the report upon the tenders for Worcester will
be found elsewhere.
Manchester Central Station.— -The Electric Light*
ing Committee of the Manchester Corporation have ordered
from Messrs. Mather and Piatt, of the Salford Iron Works,
Manchester, two large dynamos of their Edison-Hopkinson
type. These dynamos are for an output of 410 volts, 590
amperes, at a speed not exceeding 400 revolutions per
minute. They are shunt- wound, and will have a guaranteed
commercial efficiency of 91 per cent. The dynamos will
be almost exactly similar to the four large Edison-Hopkinson
machines at the central generating station of the City and
South London Railway, and will be driven from compound
vertical engines by Messrs. Galloways, Limited, with belts.
Certificates. — We are informed by Mr. L. Drugman,
manager of the School of Electrical Engineering, Princes-
street, Hanover-square, that, as the result of the recent
examinations held by Mr. Gisbert Kapp for the vellum
certificate of the school, the following gentlemen have
obtained the said certificate : Messrs. P. W. Burman,
W. J. Davy, W. Dickinson, L. Goichot, C. H. Gray,
L. Leskovic, S. E. Linsell, and R. A. Smith. The exami-
nation consisted of a paper in mechanical engineering, a
paper in electrical engineering, a viva voce and practical
examination, also engineering design done during the term
and average of two test examinations. Sixty-six per cent.
of the marks were necessary for the obtaining of the
certificate.
Knockin. — An installation has just been completed for
the Earl of Bradford's estate offices and workshops at
Knockin, near Oswestry, Salop, by Mr. Wm. Sillery, of
Wrexham. The generating plant is placed in the saw-mill,
and consists of a Siemens dynamo driven by counter-
shafting off the main engine and run during the daytime,
to charge a set of secondary cells designed and patented by
Mr. Sillery last year. The offices and workshops are
illuminated by means of 16-c.p. incandescent lamps, and
Siemens arc lamps are used for lighting the timber-yard
and inside the saw-mill^ together with incandescents, the
whole giving every satisfaction. The electric light has
also been permanently installed in the ballroom attached
to the Bradford Hotel, Knockin, to be used for the first
time at Easter.
Kleotrio Traction and Cranes. — The adjourned
discussion on Mr. Stephen Sellons's paper on '* Electric
Traction and its Financial Aspect," will take place before
the Society of Engineers at Westminster Town Hall on
Monday next, April 4, at 7.30 p.m. A paper will after-
wards be read on "The Application of Electricity to
Hoisting Machinery," by Mr. Reginald Bolton, of which
the following is a synopsis : Hoisting and hauling gear —
hand power, steam, hydraulic, rope, belt, and shafting —
compared with electrical; advantages of electricity; the
electromotor and its conditions of adaptation to hoisting
machinery ; a new system of gearing ; the electric winch ;
safety overloading device ; electric travelling crane , com-
parative tests ; description of various electric cranes; first
cost ; comparative estimate of three systems of distributing
power.
Outtaline. — ^A new preparation for the purpose of
replacing indiarubber and guttapercha has been brought
out and protected by MM. Worms and Zwierchowski. To
a quantity of Manila gum tempered with benzene is added
5 per cent, of Auvergne bitumen,- also mixed with
benzene. These are thoroughly mixed together by
mechanical means and by the hand. By adding 5 per
cent, of rosin oil and allowing 48 to 86 hours to pass
between each treatment, a product is obtained having all
the suppleness, elasticity, solidity, and durability of the
best iodiarubbers. If the product is too fluid, the addition
of 4 per cent, of sulphur dissolved by means of sulphate of
carbon will remedy this. The addition of 5 per cent, of
indiarubber to this mixture makes an irreproachable com-
pound for certain purposes. The vulcanisation of this
product can be carried out in the usual way.
Resistance of the Arc. — Fr. Stengen, in Wiedemanris
Annalen (vol. 45, p. 33), describes a proof that the supposed
back E.M.F. of the arc is non-existent. In the circuit of
arc or shunt dynamos a battery of secondary cells is inserted,
together wfth an ammeter and a tangent galvanometer.
If the dynamo is short-circuited the field suddenly dimi-
nishes, as also the current in the line. At the moment of
extinction of the arc the tangent galvanometer shows a
marked deflection due to the discharge of the accumulators —
this experiment serves to show that the galvanometer is
sufficiently delicate to show a back E.M.F. Take away the
accumulators, and the galvanometer shows not the slightest
current during extinction, whence the author concludes
the arc offers resistance, but no back E.M.F. The experi-
ment permits, however, the possibility of a real E.M.F. if of
very small capacity of polarisation, and is, therefore, not
absolutely conclusive.
Ceylon. — Progress is being made in the work of utilising
water power to supply electrical power to Mariawattee
factory in Ceylon. A watercourse is now being constructed
from the Mahawillaganga, and buildings are being erected
for the turbines and dynamos. It is proposed to obtain
200 h.p., 50 h.p. each will be used for the two factories
belonging to the company, and 100 h.p. will be available
for others in the neighbourhood who may wish to hire
power from them. It is estimated that the cost of the
installation will be £4,000. The spot at which it has been
decided to take the water out of the Mahawillaganga is,
curiously enough , states the Indian Engineei\ the same as
that which the Kandyan kings attempted ages ago to take
the water, but apparently failed, as their cuttings in the rocks
in the river and at its sides are evidence. The water they
attempted to secure so long ago will be at last utilised to
drive the whole of the machinery at Mariawattee.
Siemens and Halske in America. — A company
has been incorporated in America under the name of the
Siemens and Halske Electric Company of America, with
headquarters at Chicago. The president is 0. W. Meysen-
berg ; secretary, A. W. Wright ; other directors, Arnold
von Siemens, Oeorge William von Siemens, and Alexander
von Babo ; New York representative, George H. Benjamin,
35, Wall-street. The works will be situated near Chicago,
and plans are drawn up for a separate town (similar to
that of Pullman City, where the cars are built), and the
entire concern is to be run on the co-operative plan. The
principal feature will be large dynamos and motors of
500 h.p. to 1,000 h.p. for transmission of power, especially
multiphase work. Experimental plants of various kinds
are to be erected. The manufacture of submarine cables
will be taken up on a large scale, and testing instruments
will be another specialty. The capital is half a million
31^
THE BLECTRiCAL fiKGlNEER, APRlL 1, 1892.
dollars, and the factories will be established gradually as
work increases.
Briaiine Arc Lamp. — M. G. Bouz, in L'Industrie
Ekdrique, describes a very simple arc lamp lately intro-
duced by M. Brianne. It has only a single solenoid, which
sucks up a curved iron piece. This is attached to an arm
working a tooth segment, gearing into a drum, which again
drivesthelong ratchetof the carbon-holder, and thissinglearm
both strikes the arc and feeds the carbons. When the lamp is
not in use the iron core drops, gives the drum a turn, and
keeps the carbons apart. On turning on the current the
core is attracted ; this brings the carbons together. The
solenoid being no longer on short circuit, drops once more,
and so strikes the arc, the iron core being held in a position
of equilibrium by the shunt current. When the arc
lengthens, more current traverses the coil, the core is
attracted, and the gearing piece turned, until at a certain
point it ceases to gear, and the flywheel turns by gravity
one tooth, when the same action recommences. This takes
place usually every 20 seconds. The great advantage of
this lamp is its extreme simplicity.
CharginfiT Cat-oat. — An improved automatic switch
cut-out has been introduced by M. Ch. Ferry, and was
exhibited to the French Soci^t^ des Electriciens at a recent
meeting. The apparatus has two coils, one in the exciting
circuit of the dynamo, and one which at the proper time is
energised by the charging current, and aids the former.
Two mercury contacts establish connection of dynamo to
the accumulator, and these are thrown in when the strength
of the charging current rises to normal or just over. The
second coil now takes the principal current and maintains
contact in spite of the decrease of the exciting current.
Everything remains thus as long as the working is normal,
but if the engine slackens and the E.M.F. falls below the
requisite amount, the contact is drawn out of the mercury
by the action of a spring ; even if the spring did not act at
once, the current now being reversed on the second coil,
repulsion occurs, and the contact is broken with but little
sparking. The arrangement permits accumulators to be
charged with a dynamo of a very variable speed, such as
would be the case if driven by natural forces, and it
prevents accident in case of stoppage of the dynamo or
slackening of speed through slipping of the belt. The
apparatus is constructed by M. E. Ducretet, 75, Rue Claude
Bernard, Paris. It appears to be a useful and efficient
modification of a piece of apparatus already much in use in
this country.
ChioaffO Kzhibition. — The Electrical Committee
appointed by the Royal Commission for the Chicago
Exhibition met on Monday, the 28th inst, when there were
present — Mr. Wm. H. Preece, F.RS. (chairman), Sir
Fiedk. Abel, K.C.B., D.CL., D.Sc, F.RS., Prof. W.
Grylls Adams, M.A., D.Sc., F.R.S.; Major-General E. R.
Festing, F.RS., Prof. George Forbes, M.A., F.RS.; Prof.
David E. Hughes, F.R.S.; Prof. John Perry, D.Sc, F.R.S.;
Mr. Alexander Siemens, Mr. C. E. Spagnoletti, Major-
General C. E. Webber, C.B., Mr. Peter Wm. Willans, Mr,
James Wimshurst, with Sir Henry Trueman Wood (secre-
tary to the Royal Commission). The chairman reported
that he had received information from Chicago that one of
the engineers of the electrical staff of the exhibition was
about to be sent over to this country to confer with the
committee on the question of arranging for some portion of
the exhibition to be lighted by European firms. It was
agreed to postpone the consideration of this question
pending the arrival of the gentleman in question. The
chairman also informed the committee that there was
every prospect of the electrical industries of this country
being adequately represented. Several of the newest forms I
of engines and dynamos for electrical installations would
be shown, and it was probable also that arrangements
would be made for showing a series of rooms, furnished in
the English style, and fitted with the most recent applica-
tions of the electric light
Dinner. — The first annual students' dinner of the
Electric Standardising, Testing, and Training Institution
took place on Wednesday, Lord Castleton being in the
chair. Amongst others present were Earl Russell, Dr.
Robson Roose, Judge Snagg, Prof. Robinson, Major Waller,
Colonel Gk)uraud, Mr. Robert Hammond, Mr. Harrison,
Prof. Fleming, Hon. R. Brougham, Mr. W. H. Massey,
Mr. Swinburne, and other well-known electrical engineers.
Major Waller, proposing the toast of the evening, " The
Institution," dwelt on the need there existed for well-
trained young engineers, and on the value of the institu>
tion. He spoke of the difficulty of standardising,
as no legal standards weie yet adopted. Mr. Ham-
mond, in responding, said that the institution was
a resuscitation of his old college, and the added
purposes were the outcome of a suggestion by Mr.
Ferranti. He alluded to the practical training given
by reason of the affiliation to electrical companies and
firms, and stated the institution was ready to standardise
for either companies or customers. Lord Castleton, in pro-
posing " The Students," pointed out the openings which
constantly occurred for utilising electrical knowledge in the
army, on board ship, and especially in the colonies. The
last toast was proposed by Colonel Gouraud, who, in pro-
posing " The Board of Control and the Staff," amused his
listeners by telling how Edison, when questioned as to his
'* genius " replied, " Bosh ! all hard work and love of diffi-
culties." The toast was responded to by the chairman and
Mr. Harrison, the principal of the institution.
Kleotrio Lannohes. — On Thursday last, the launch
took place of two new electric pleasure-boats by the
General Electric Power aod Traction Company, from their
boatbuilding yard at Chertsey. The first of these, the
" Flosshilde," was built for Lord Dysart, who was present
with a party of friends for the launching. The christening
was carried out in the approved way by Mrs. Dixon, one
of the party. The '* Flosshilde " is a very handsomely
appointed boat, on finer lines than those previously built.
She is the largest private pleasure-boat yet built, being
55ft. long and 8ft. in beam, drawing 2ft. 6in. with equip-
ment and full complement of 50 passengers. The boat is
built of mahogany and teak, and has promenade deck
with seats. The cells are E.P.S. boat type, 15 plates
each. One hundred of these will be used, but the
boat will carry up to 150 cells. The current required is
40 amperes, which will give a full speed of eight and a half
to nine miles an hour. An Immisch motor of 7 h.p. or 8 h.p.
drives direct a three-bladed propeller of special design for
high speeds, the speed being 800 revolutions per minute.
The second boat, christened " Jim " by Mrs. Smith, wife of
the secretary of the company, is a smaller pleasure-boat, 25ft.
long by 5ft. Gin. beam, 18in. draught, built for Mr. Ed.
^AgKi of Maidenhead, who already has one electric boat
The number of cells in this case is 24 only, same type (B 15),
and a 3-h.p. Immisch motor drives a high-speed propeller
at 800 revolutions, giving a full speed of about 7^ miles an
hour, with about half-a-dozen passengers. The boats were
designed and the building superintended by Mr. W. B.
Edwards, son of a well-known steam launch builder, and
now an ardent convert to electricity. The electrical equip-
ment was carried out by Mr. E. J. Wade, electrical engi-
neer to the General Electric Traction Company. After the
launch the party visited the charging station at Platts
Eyot, at Hampton.
tfiE ULEOttllOAL ENGINEER, Al>RiL 1, 189^.
317
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
THE TELEPHONIC EXHIBITS.— III.
The National Telephone Comiiany, Limited,
show a large quantity of apparatus, but little or nothing
that has not been exhibited before. A modified
linesman's set, with magneto ringer, weighing only lO^lb.,
so that it can be readily taken up poles and standards,
designed by Mr. Davis, the courteous district manager of
No. 4 division, who has charge of the exhibit, may perhaps
be considered an exception. There are, of course, lighter
sets known, but these have ringing arrangements which
are only effective for short lines, whereas Mr. Davis's
magneto is good for any distance. A portion of the stall
is set aside as a switchroom, and contains a testboard
fitted with Ooleman and Jackson combined test-jacks and
lightning-guards, and a non-multiple metallic circuit switch-
board for 90 subscribers, and 10 junction linea on Sinclair's
adaptation of the single-cord principle. The board,
which was constructed by the Telegraph Manufacturing
Company, Limited, of Helsby, has a handsome appearance,
and 80 far as workmanship is concerned is a creditable
piece of work, but it occupies an abnormal amount of space
as compared with its capacity. Its object is stated to be
rapidity in switching, those in charge evidently being under
the impression that the movements required are fewer than
with other systems, but on tracing a connection thiough all
its stages it becomes evident that this view is untenable.
The motions are seven in number — viz.: 1. Operator plugs
in to answer call 2. Puts caller's plug into called sub-
0 9
*Hm*cmrom
Ftg. 12.
scriber's jack. 3. Rings. 4. Takes out speaking plug.
5. Replaces shutter. 6. Removes plug. 7. Replaces ring-
off shutter. So the National Company's board is beaten
both by the Scribner and the Consolidated Company's
multiple boards, which only require six movements, while the
Western Electric Company's non-multiple Standard and Scar-
borough boards, which are very much more compact and
simple in construction, require only one movement more, in
spite of which they are probably more expeditious in
operation, since all their parts are well within reach, which
is not the case with the National. The leading idea of the
board can be gleaned from Fig. 12. The indicator is in
shunt with the plug and spring-jack by the contacts, C C^
The insertion of a plug disconnects the indicator of one
subscriber, leaving that of the other in derived circuit and
available as a ring-off. But there is no provision for dis-
tinguishing between a ring-off and a ring-through, so that the
National Company does not appear to contemplate any steps
towards removing the confusion at present prevalent in London
through this cause. The spring-jacks are very complicated
in construction, each containing six separate parts and four
contacts. The indicators are wound to 1,000 ohms, and
have two iron-sheathed coils, but as the sheaths are not
connected to the cores, the arrangement is not so effective
as that of the Western Electric single coil pattern already
described. While it is impossible to understand in what
respects the board can be regarded as an improvement on
older and simpler forms, its cost is exceedingly high, for it
could not be manufactured for much less than j£80, or 16s.
per line. An imposing-looking exchange fixture or derrick
marks the entrance to the company's stall. It is composed
of four wrought-iron tubular standards, about 40ft.
high, arranged in a 6ft. square. Each standard is made
up of two tubes spliced together by ^iri. bolts, the lower
half being 3|in. in diameter, and the upper one |in. less.
Forty channel-iron arms, all fixed within some 10ft. of the
top, indicate accommodation for 400 wires. As there is no
diagonal bracing below the arms, it is to be presumed that
the structure has been designed for exhibition only and not
for practical use. Certainly the company would be most
ill-advised to allow it to be erected on a roof with the idea
of carrying anything like 400 wires. The music-room —
where, at different hours, tunes played at Croydon, the
Lyric Theatre, Manchester, and in the Crystal Palace
itself, can be listened to — attracts many visitors. It is not
claimed that the arrangements comprise any novelties, and
the transmission is not better than at previous exhibitions.
The International Kleotrio Company, Limited,
agents for Mix and Genest, Berlin, has transferred to the
Crystal Palace the greater part of its very complete tele-
phonic exhibit at Frankfort. The productions of the firm
are so well known that any detailed notice of them would
amount to mere recapitulation. An interesting feature of
the exhibit is a stand showing the step-bystep development
of the Mix and Genest microphone which, in its perfected
form, has become the official transmitter of the German
Post Office. An intercommunication system, called the
*' Selector," in which plugs, flexible cords, and sockets
replace the more usual pointer switch, is noteworthy for its
simplicity. The connections for four stations can be traced
in Fig. 13, in which the instruments are indicated by T, the
lines by L, the sockets by S, and the plugs by P. The earth
may be replaced by a common return wire if desired. The
weak point of the system appears to be want of privacy,
since it is plain that conversation between two stations
could be overheard by a third designedly or accidentally
plugging into the engaged line.
Fifl 13.
In view of the extent to which telephones are now being
fitted into signal-cabins and stations by the leading English
railways, an ingenious adaptation of telephony to railway
requirements, which we are told has already been applied
successfully in — of all places in the world ! — Spain, is of
interest. In the event of breakdown or accident, ability to
communicate with the stations on either side of a train is
always desirable and sometimes of urgent necessity. Mix
and Genest's plan renders it easy of accomplishment. They
link the stations and cabins, or some of them, by two wires,
one of which is reserved for calling and the other for talk-
ing; if there are telegraph wires on the same poles the
talking line should be a metallic circuit. A current from
some constant form of voltaic battery is kept on the calling
wire, and holds attracted the armatures of relays at the
stations, between which calls are made by momentarily
interrupting the current by suitable contact-breakers.
Both the calling and the speaking wires are run down
the poles at frequent intervals and respectively led
through contact-breakers and spring-jacks, enclosed in
weather-proof boxes. The guards on every train are pro-
vided with light portable telephone sets which can be
slung over the shoulder. In the event of accident a man
runs to the nearest pole fitted with apparatus, interrupts
the current on the calling wire, thereby releasing the arma-
tures and ringing the belU at the stations or cabins on
either side, plugs into the spring- jack on the talking
circuit, and immediately finds himself in communication.
As the wires are ordinarily used for talking between the
stations, they are not likely to be found wanting when an
emergency arises. The adoption of some such plan on our
English railways would be of most distinct advantage in
the interests of both the companies themselves and their
|)assengers, and now the telephone monopoly is at an end
318
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 1, 1892.
there can be no excuse for lagging behind Spain in
such an important mi4tt«r. The company also ehowa
a fiO-line awitchboard very aimilor to the Western Electric
Standard board in design, and requiring the same number
of movements to operate it.
MeBars. W. T. Olover and Co., of London and
Salford, exhibit a variety of telephonic leade and cables,
the manufacture of which, ever since the advent of the
telephone, has been one of their specialities. Their samples
are not merely solid lengths of cable the inside of which
may be guessed at and speculated about but not seen, but
have ends opened out in fan-shape, so that visitors may not
only realise the great number of conductors that it is
possible to imprison in a circumference of an inch or so,
btit inspect the details of covering and construction.
Messrs. Glover have adhered to indiarubber, so far, for their
telephonic cables, although it is understood that the firm
will shortly place on the market cables insulated with a
material of considerably lower specific inductive capacity.
Specimens of their aerial cables recently made for the Mutirnl
Telephone Company, Limited, are shown. These consist of
twisted metallic circuits, varying in number from five to
thirtj -six, arranged round a central straight wire. The
conductors are of No. 20 gauge insulated to 600 megohms.
The waterproofing, as in all the firm's aerial cables, con-
sists of double reverse layers of leaden foil, prepared tape,
and braiding. Samples of cables made for the National
and other telephone companies, adapted both for single and
double wires, of the firm's well-known " Magpie " type, the
distinguishing feature of which is the ingenious system of
numbering and identifying the component wires by means
of their black and white covering, are likewise present in
great variety. A new description of protective armour for
telephone and other cables is being introduced by the firm,
and promises well. Being in the form of a sheet-iron tube
circum fere nti ally corrugated, it is very strong, and at the
same time light and flexible.
Tha Fowlei^'Wariiir Cabl«8 Company, Umitod,
which has recently made a strong bid for telephonic work,
exhibits various types of telephone cables insulated with its
special material. Noteworthy among them is a cable con-
taining 50 metallic circuits made for the French Ministry
of Posts and Telegraphs, and now being laid in the Parisian
sewers for use in connection with the telephonic system.
The conductors are No. 19 gauge, and the company has
guaranteed an insulation of 1,000 megohms and a capacity
of '17 microfarad per mile. A conspicuous feature of the
exhibit is a large case containing specimens of the metallic
circuit cables manufactured for the Mutual Telephone Com-
pany, the conductors of which are No. 20, with an insulation
of 600 megohms and a capacity of '24 microfarad. The
National Telephone Company uses Fowler- Waring cables of
two specifications, both having No. 18 conductors and
being insulated to 1,000 megohms, but varying in capacity,
one measuring '24 and the other '18 microfarad per mile.
A special underground cable made for the British Post
Office, and used for connecting subscribers in London to
the Paris telephone line, contains only two pairs of twisted
conductors, each weighing 2001b. to the mile, and heavily
insulated so as to secure a very low capacity. But not
content with the excellent resuttt yielded by the Fowler-
Waring insulation, the company exhibits specimens of anew
dry-core cable it is now manufacturing specially for under-
ground telephone work. Like the Western Electric Com-
pany's "dry core,"the insulation consists solely of wrappings
of non-absorbent paper The result is certainly remarkable,
as the cables from which the specimens exhibited were
taken are stated to test as low as 08 and 065 microfarad
per mile, the conductors being respectively of No. 20 and
No. 18 gauge.
The Tele^aph Hannfiwtnring Company,
Zdmited, and the Birmingham Tfllflffraph Factory,
exhibit telephones and accessories in great variety,
together with cables, insulators, and ironwork for outside
construction, all of good, if familiar, design and workman-
ship. Messrs, Woodtaoase and Rawson, Limited,
Uessn. F. C. Allaop and Co., Hr. Harry Thorpe,
The Soientiflc AlUanoe, and several other firms show
telephones, switches, and general fittings, but nothing
ai)}ing for s/>ecial remark.
DIRECT-CURRENT DYNAMOS. -II.
. BY R. W. WEEKES, WHfr.SCH.
ImprovemenU in MeclMtiiad DetaUs.
The armatures made 10 years ago were constructed in
most oases without regard to the mechanical duties of the -
various parts. The iron core and the conductor were driven
by friction, one general method being to drive conical huba
of wood into each end of the armature when wound. This
method was discarded as soon as engineers took up the
manufacture, and the driving of the core is now made
positive in nearly all dynamos.
The need of a direct drive for the conductor is specially
fsit as soon as the manufacture of large dynamos is com-
menced. Messrs. Johnson and Phillips exhibit a striking
example of this need in an armature which was run with
full load for nine months almost continuously. Tha
conductors in this case are driven by horns, and have
been forced by the torque up to them so closely that there
is a clear space at tbe back of each horn, although when
first wound theconductors were packed as tightly as possible
It tbe driving horns bad not been used, the conductora
would have chafed round the core till the insulation gave
out and a short circuit occurred.
Many of the makers do not care to publish full details of
their armature construction, but I propose to describe
briefly the general methods used to secure the mechanical
driving, combined with the necessary provisions for the
ventilation of the core, It will be well to consider at the
same time the method used for win-iing the conductors
and the end connectors, if any. The Gramme ring arma-
ture is now seldom met with iu dynamos of an output
much about 15 kilowatts, except in special types. "The
disc type of core is the most general of the exceptions.
Arc lighting dynamos giving a high voltage are also
usually wound after the Gramme pattern, when the closed
conductor circuit is used. This is due to the difficulty of
making the end connections in the drum windidg for the
large number of turns of wire required.
The sketches given below are diagrammatic, and intended
to illustrate the general method used rather than to give
the proportions.
Messrs. Crompton and Co. have paid great attention
to the directdriving problem. Their make of core consists
of a number of charcoal iron rings, insulated with paper,
and driven by mean^ of spider arms keyed on to the shaft
and into the iron rings. Fig. 10. At intervals along the
length of the core radial spaces are left for ventilation and
also for discs of wrought iron. On these there are teeth
which form the basis of tha driving bars. Strips of insu-
lating material are fastened on either side of each row of
these projections, and against these the conductors bed
when the driving strain occurs. In the 112-kilowatt arma-
ture exhibited on their central stand, there are 12 of these
driving bars at interrols round the armature. This at full
load allows a mean pull of 2301b. on each driving bar, and
a considerable higher maximum pull when the wires are in
the strongest part of the field. The connector used by
this firm is also on view at the same stall. It consists of a
split tape of copper with one arm bent in either direction.
Figs. 11 and 12. The result is good as regards the
resistance of the armatures, but the connectors somewhat
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL ]. 1892.
319
obstruct the entranca to the ventilating spaces in the
core.
The Electric Construction Corporation build up their
armature cores of the best charcoal iron plates insulated
with paper, and rely on the low induction used to keep the
core cool withont special means of ventilation. The rings
are keyed directly on to the shaft, and compressed together
by a brass flange at either end. These flanges have
channels cast on them to carry the connecting wires.
Fig. 13. They use wooden pegs driven in tne core
to drive the conductors. Their most striking exhibit
is the 40-unit motor-generator. In this machine there is
no need to drive the conductors, as the two systems or
winding are interspersed and so drive each other. Tbis
also prevents any strain on the bearings of the dynamo.
Again, the armature reactions of the two circuits balance
each other, so that there is no lead on the bnishes at any
load.
Messrs, Easton and Anderson have not given me Any
details of their machines such as would enable any cum
parison to be made with those of other manufacturers
The armature core is built up of tbin plates in tbe usual
way, but I believe that they are keyed directly on the
shaft. The direct driving of the embedded conductors i-
the best feature of this type of armature, and should make
them of great value for rough tramcar work if the weighi
efficiency of tbe motor is good. The surfaces of the iror
teeth help considerably to kee|i the armature cool,
but it must be remembered that most of the heat wasted in
the copper conductors has to be dissipated from these sur-
faces as well as that geuerated by hysteresis. Tbe end
connections are carefully protected by a brass casing, which
will prevent duat collecting between them.
Messrs, J. H. Holmes and Co. have one of their dynamos
on view at Messrs Browett, Lindley, and Co.'s stall. The
armature is Gramme wound, and carefully designed for
ventilation. Their method of driving of the core is shown
in Fig. 14, and this is the method now generally adopted
for machines of this type. Tbe charcoal iron discs are
iilatod with paper, with thicker fibre rings at intervals.
Fio. IB.
The large eight-pole dynamo exhibited by Messrs.
Johnson and Phillips has many points of interest.
Tbe sketch. Fig. 15, enables the construction to be
readily understood. The iron core is built up of
charcoal iron plates, punched out to the shape shown,
Fig. 16. These have holes in them for the iron bars
which bold them together, and forms a good driving con-
nection. The driving frame consists of two strong cast-iron
wheels, into which the ends of these iron bars pass. Tbe
wheels are clamped together by separate loneitudinal bolte,
and these also hold on the connection carriages. As shown
in the section, the core has radial spaces at intervals for
ventilation. In these spaces are also placed the gunmetal
rings, on which are projections, forming the driving horns.
The horns are not arranged in line as in the Crompton arma-
ture, but are placed at Intervals so that the driving
points are distributed about the conductors. The number
is so fixed that the maximum pull on any horn is 601b.
The armature is wound on the zigzag principle introduced
by Mr. Scott some years ago, and tbe Irare are connected by
the Kapp patent connector, Fig. 17. These are built un in
the Carriage, and then bolted as a whole on to the core,
thus saving much time over any system in which the con-
nectors have to be arranged in nlu. Also, as tbe conuectora
run round concentric with and near the core, the internal
parts are left open to the air, and a larger cooling surfacA
is exposed.
Fm. 17.
Messrs, Laurence, Scott, and Co. show a well-made
armature in the shipligbtini; plant they have lately
added to their exhibit. Tbe core is driven in the usual
manner by a gunmetal spider, and is of the toothed type
described above. They use deep grooves for the conductors,
and claim a high efficiency. The armature is drum wound,
and the Kapp connector is used. The ventilation inside
the core is ample, and should ensure cool running. There
is no doubt that with due care to the insulation of cori-
ductors when first embedded, it is impossible that any^
320
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 1, 1892.
strain due to the load should cause trouble. The
weight efficiency of the dynamo will be seen in the next
article.
The machines made by Messrs. Siemens Bros, and Co.
have a good reputation for cool running, and the makers
are naturally unwilling to publish full details of the construc-
tion. The general arrangement of the core is somewhat as
follows, Fig. 18 : The iron plates are keyed directly on to
the shaft, and circular holes through them form the longi-
tudinal ventilation spaces. At intervals there are radial
gaps left, as explained in the machines described previously.
Fio. 18.
I also understand that the conductors are driven by means
of pegs of metal or hard wood fixed into the core. The
ena connections used appear to be somewrhat of the same
kind as those used by Messrs. Crompton and Co. They
take up all the space round the shaft, and must form a
serious obstacle to the air entering the ventilating spaces.
In the largest machine made by this firm the conductors
are connected on their improved parallel system.
THE DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRICITY FOR
LIGHTING PURPOSES.''
BY J. BRENTNALL DUCKITT, GRADUATE.
Before drawing your attention to the various methods of
distribution of electricity for lighting purposes, the writer
thinks it will be well to say a few words with regard to the
lamps used for electric lighting. These are of two kinds :
arc and incandescent.
The arc lamp has been known in some form for upwards
of 50 years, but it is only recently that it has been brought
to anything like a state of perfection. Two forms are now
used — namely, the single-regulating coil arc lamp, and the
shunt-regulating coil arc lamp.
The single-regulating coil arc lamp is regulated by means
of a thick wire coil or solenoid, through which the whole
of the current passes. If the arc in the lamp becomes too
long the solenoid, owing to the increased resistance, and
consequent weakening of the current, will allow the carbon
rod to drop, thus re-establishing the proper length of the
arc. This type of lamp can only be used in parallel
circuit; if it were put in series a constantly flickering
light would ensue, as some lamp in the circuit would
always be adjusting its arc and disturbing the others.
In the shunt-regulating arc lamp, the thick coil or sole-
noid is retained as before, but in connection with it is a
fine wire coil arranged as a shunt to the arc ; that is, when
the current reaches the positive terminal of the lamp it
has two paths open to it — one through the thick coil and
the arc, and the other through the shunt coil direct back
to the negative terminal of the lamp. If the arc becomes
too long, the current through it would tend to weaken, on
account of the increased resistance of the arc; but this
would cause a stronger current to flow through the shunt
coil, hence the current in the main wires is not weakened.
If the arc becomes too short the resistance would be less,
* Paper read before the (iraduate Section of the N. E. C.
Institution of Engineers and Shipbuilders.
and the current through it would be stronger ; this would
cause a weaker current to flow through the shunt coil,
so the current in the main wires is not strengthened.
The shunt coil also controls the carbons as well as the
thick wire coil, and by means of the two a practically
constant burning lamp is obtained. In these lamps there
are also placed automatic cut-outs, so that in case of the
carbons burning out the circuit will remain open through
the cut-out. Fig. 1 shows a Crompton arc lamp of this
type.
Focussing arc lamps are those in which both carbons
move towards the arc; they bum equally and keep the arc
in one place. The new lamp of this type manufactured by
Messrs. E. Scott, Mountain, and Go. was illustrated.
The distance between the carbons in an arc lamp, or, in
other words, the length of the arc, does not vary much.
In a 50- volt circuit and with a current of 15 amperes the
distance is generally Aths of an inch. In a 40-volt circuit
with 10 amperes |tn of an inch is found best. These
figures apply to powerful arc lamps like those used in street
lighting, when worked in series. When worked in parallel
they will require a higher voltage, say, 65 volts. The
following table gives lighting power of arc lamps :
Nominal candle-power. Current (amperes). E.M.F. (volts).
1,000 5 65
2,000 10 65
3,000 15 65
4,000 20 65
The incandescent lamp is now so well known that it is
hardly necessary to describe it. It may be regarded, how-
ever, as a short length of very fine graphite carbon, curved
into a U-shape, and mounted in a pear-shaped glass bulb,
from which all the air has been exhausted by means of a
mercurial air-pump, so as to form a practically pure
vacuum. The two ends of the filament are fixed to two
pieces of platinum wire which are sealed in the glass. To
make a periectly conducting joint between the filament
and the platinum, it is electrically coated with a layer of
copper. The lamps need careful handling, as the filaments
are very brittle and easily broken. If the glass be broken
the lamp is totally destroyed.
The filament being carbon ofiers a high resistance to
electricity, and if a current be forced through it work is
done in overcoming this resistance ; the work done takes
the form of heat, the carbon becoming white hot, but being
in a vacuum no chemical combustion takes place, and it is
not destroyed. The higher this pressure or force the less
the amount of current within a certain limit. The principal
type of lamp used is 16 c.p., and the voltage generally 60
or 100.
The following table gives the E.M.F. and current of
various lamps, and gives the limit over which incandescent
lamps can be economically used :
Candle-power. Volts. Amperes. Volts. Amperes.
8 takes from 10 28 to 120 -3
16 „ „ 15 3-7 „ 160 -4
25 „ „ 40 2-2 „ 120 7
50 „ „ 50 3-5 „ 120 1-4
100 „ ,,50 7*0 „ 120 2-9
High candle-power incandescent lamps, such as the
Sunbeam lamp (shown) are now largely coming into use
for the lighting of large rooms, halls, etc. These Sun-
beam lamps are decidedly preferable to arc lamps, since
they cast no objectionable shadows, give no hissing noise,
and require no attention from their first instalment until
they give way. They generally burn from 1,000 to 2,000
hours before their filaments break, '^^^y require a little
more power to work than arc lamps. But taking every-
thing into consideration, they are nearly as cheap as
medium-sized arc lamps in a long run and far more satis-
factory for large rooms, where perfect silence, freedom
from blinking and shade ws^ as well as artistic appearance,
are of importance. Arc lamps require daily attention,
with the additional cost of fresh carbons, etc.
The various systems of distribution may be divided into
two parts — first, the continuous-current method, and second,
the high-tension alternating-current method. In all electric
wiring there are two fundamental circuits — namely, series
and parallel. The series system. Fig. 2, may be compared
to the arrangement in an engine, where the same steam
passes from one cylinder to another, giving up its energy
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 1, 1892.
3S1
in work, itep by step, until it returns to the coudenaer.
The boiler, feed pump, and •ir-pump correspond to the
dynamo, ita negativo terminal being the condenser, and ita
poeitive terminal being at the boiler Btop-valve. Between
these points the pressure ia raised from a vacuum or nega-
Uto pressure of, say, 121b. per square inch, to a puiime
pressure of, say, 1601b., or 172lb. m all. In this case the
steam passes through the cylinders in series, giving up its
pressure on the way, the steam-pipes, ports, etc., corre-
sponding to the conductors, the loss of energy in the con-
ductors being reduced as much as possible, returning finally
to the point of negative pressure at the air-pump suction.
The system of wiring on this principle is very good
where there is a constant load at all points at which power
is taken off. But suppose that the circuit of lamps be
divided among six persons, and the fourth person only
wanted to use one quarter the number of Hghto told off to
him. By so doing he reduces the conditions of pressure in
the other systems, because the pressure is proportional to
the number of lamps, while the current remains constant,
and this necessitates a reduction in the total difference of
pressure at the origin and end of the system.
>«Bi
The Paroild System. — If a dynamo be turned round at a
fixed rate it establishes a certain difference of pressure
between the main wires, but no current flows until a lamp
or lamps are connected across them. The current then
flows through the lamp or lamps from the positive to the
negative main. In this s^stein the pressure remains con-
stant, while the current is proportional to the number of
lamps, so that if the number of lamps be increased the
amount of current wilt have to be increased in proportion.
In Fig. 3, let D represent the dynamo at the central
station, L the lamps at the customers' houses, and P and N
tbe two mains, in which the pressure must be kept constant
everywhere on the circuit however many or few lamps are
connected across it ; tbe lamps being made all of the same
resistance and size, will burn everywhere with the right
intensity.
There is no difficulty in obtaining this even difference of
pressure if the distance from the dynamo, D, to the lamps,
L, is short, but if the diaUoce is long there will be a great
difference. The copper mains through which the current
flows offer a certain resistance to its passage, and this,
when very large currents are used, becomes a very import
tant item. The enei^ thus expended by the current in
forcing its way through the mains appears as heat, and if
too great a current be forced through the mains they will
become heated even to melting point : for this reason it is
always necessary to proportion the mains to the current
tfaey will have to carry. Again, this generation of heat
absorbs power, so care must be taken that a system of
mains does not waste so much enei^y as to become uneco-
nomical. From this will follow, firstly, that it will not
do to go below a certain section of copper for a given
current, or the heat of the conductor wUl be too much
increased; and, secondly, that in attempting to send a
current through too great a length of this conductor the
loss of energy will be excessive. It may be here mentioned
that the size of the conductor has nothing whatever to do
with the pressure or KM.F., but the amount of current
alone. To get rid of these difficulties the conductor may
be made very lai^e, but this will also greatly increase the
cost. For example : In Fig. 4 suppose the distance
between A and B is one mile. An ordinary 16-cp. ineoo-
descent lamp takes about two-thirds of an ampere of current
at a pressure of 100 volts to incandesce it properly. Now
suppose there are 1,600 lamps at L„ all close together,
they will therefore need 1,(X>0 amperes of current at a
pressure of 100 volts, and suopose that the mains are
one square inch section, which is the usual size for 1,000
amperes. But 1,000 amperes through one mile of cable
one square inch section would require about 100 volts to
overcome the resistance alone, consequently the pressure
at the dynamo would have to be increased to 300 volts, in
order to get 100 volte at the lamps, L,, and only half the
energy generated at tbe dynamos would be utilised by the
lamps, the other half going to overcome the resistance of
tbe cable. Therefore the efficiency of the system would
be reduced to 60 per cent, and the expense in copper
would be enormous.
There are also other difficulties connected with this
system ; for instance, if there were only half the number of
lights burning at Lj, theu there would be only half the amount
of current passing through the mains, and consequently
half the resistance, thus making the voltage at B m too
high. Another difficulty arises when a circuit of lamps is
t«ken off at half the distance.
Now if there are only a few lamps bumtog at L^ and Lj
the voltage will be about the same at each place, and the
lamps will burn with nearly equal brightness. But suppose
the full load was on the voltage at the dynamo would be
200, while at C it would be 160, and at B about 100 volU,
this would directly destroy the 100-volt lamps at C, and
the system would oe perieotly impracticable. This, then,
is the most troublesome fact which has to be dealt with in
distributing current for incandescent lamps at low tension.
The first improvement on this system was the introduc-
tion of what are known as feeders — Fig. 5 is an example of
this system. D is the dynamo, and from it run the usual
muoe, F and N, and the lamiie are connected in parallel
circuit, as at L L L. From the main conductor, P, there
run other conductor, P F, which are the feeders, and join
P in tbe outer circuit, while from N similar feeders, N F,
run, joining N in the outer circuit. These feeders may be
of any number, and their object is to keep the pressure
constant all over the circuit. This certainly is a great
improvement on the last system, but still the loss of
energy per unit length of conductor remains about the
same as before, and still binds down the area over which
current can be distributed in this manner within very
narrow limits.
The next great improvement was the three-wire system.
This system is shown in Fig. 6. D and D ore the two
dynamos, each rotating in the same direction and sending
equal current and pressure into the mains P, N, and O.
If 0 is separated into two mains, one from each machine,
there would be two equal currents flowing in opposite
directions, but by joining them aoroM the tarminals of the
dynamo Aay just nentiaUia mA gtfct^^ and ^ single
main, 0, is joineH ' ■• ■ ■ - ' - «.^q
322
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 1, 1892.
0 may be only of rery smftll strand in compuisoD with the
former maioB, m it will only serve to canr current in the
cue of a lamp breaking or being otherwise put out. By
doing this other advantages are also obtained, becanse the
difference between F and 0 ii 100 volts, and between 0
and N ia likewise 100 volts, therefore the difference between
P and N is 200 volta, and from this it will be seen that to
send double the amount of energy along the mains P and
N only the same amount of current is needed, ao that
the loss remains the same as formerly, but this loss
IB spread over two lamps instead of one, tJiua reducing it
to half. By this system only ene-third the weight of copper
is used as compared with the others, or with the same
weight of copper the current can be carried three times the
diitance with the same loss. It will be seen that this
system is simply a device for burning two lamps in series,
so that if one lamp goes out its complementaiy lamp will
not go out, but will form in circuit with the main 0. This
system is also often adopted for high-tension oircnita or
circuits of high E.M.F.
Auotiier system that may be mentioned is the system of
accumulators, in which accumulators are placed in the
circuit and charged through the day. These cells are fitted
with a very ingenious arrangement which is intended to
control them completely, bo that, when the cells are fully
charged they will nreak the connection with the dynamo,
and throw themselves in circuit with the lamps, and will
likewise re-establish connection with the dynamo when they
have run down to the point at which it is desirable they
should be recharged.
It is obvious from these facts that the low-tension
continuous-current system can only be economically applied
where the installation is close to the dynamo, and con-
sequently in the immediate neighbourhood of the station.
High-tension continuous currents are very seldom used
for incandescent lighting, but chiefly for arc lamps in series,
as has already been stated in referring to the series system.
In 1662 Edison patented a rotating transformer, which
was simply a dynamo and motor combined. The idea was
to generate a high-tension current at the central station,
and transmit this through small conductors to the distri-
buting stations, where the current worked a motor which
had in connection with it a dynamo, which produced the
low-tension current to drive the lamps. The arrangement,
however, is costly, as these transformers being machines in
motion need constant attention.
Having now mentioned the principal methods of low-
tenaion continuous-current distribution, a few words may
be said on the alternating-transformer system.
The induction coil, which was invented by Ruhmkorff,
and which is probably known to all in the modified form of
the medical coil, consists of a central core, which is simply
a bundle of soft iron wire. On this is wound what is
known as the primary coil, which consists of a thick coil of
insulated copper wire. Over this is wound a great many
layers of very fine well -insulated copper wire, which form
what is known as the secondary coil.
On a current of Urge quantity but low E.M.F. being
sent through the primary coil, a very high E.M.F. but a
small current is inducecl in the secondary coil, but this
induced current is only instantaneous, and the instant the
current in the primary ceases or ia cut off, an equal and
opposite high-tension current is induced in the secondary.
In order, therefore, to keep up this high-tension current it
is necessary to have the induction coil fitted with a contact
breaker in the primary circuit to quickly make and break
the flow of current, or a commutator to produce nipid
^T^
Fio. 8.
alternations, thus producinghigh-tension alternating currents
in the secondary coil, which are similar, though of greater
pressure or E.M.F., to the current produced hy the alter-
nating-current dynamo.
If the process is now reversed, and an alternating
current of high tension is sent through the secondary, it
will produce an alternating current of low tension in the
primary, but of far greater quantity or number of amperes.
Hence, if a high-tenaion alternating-current ia produced in
a dynamo, it can be transmitted to a disUnce and there
converted into a low-tension current tu be utilised for
lighting purposes. These converters are what are called
transformers, Fig, 7.
By transmitting in this manner it would require a much
smaller conductor than in the case of low-tension currents,
thus reducing the cost very considerably. For eJtample, it
would require a cable consisting of seven strands of wire,
No. 20 gauge, to carry 10 amperes at 100 volts low-tension
continuous current, but the same cable would carry 10
amperes at 1,000 volts high-tension alternatini:; current, in
one case carrying
10 X 100 = 1,000 watts, and in the other
10 = 1,000 X 10,000 watts.
That is, 10 times the amount of energy in the case of the
-mz
high-tension alternating current at the ume cost for con-
ductors or mains, and at the same time to a far greater
distance.
Transformers may be made to work either in series or in
parallel. In Fig. 8 (the ends of the mains should be con-
nected) they are arranged in series.
This system is successful for the transmitting of energy
for electric motors, etc., but it is of no use in distributing
for lighting purposes, as the current being constant and the
E.M.F. varying, the lamps would not be independent of
one another.
In 186fi transformers were first arranged in parallel,
Fig 9, the primary coil of each transformer being con-
nected across the two mains in exactly the same manner in
which incandescent lamps are in the case of low-tenaion
currents. This system is a great improvement on the
Beriea Bystom, as tho currant varies and Ihe E.M.F. is always
coDBtant.
There are at preaeiit Beveral different forma of trana-
formers in use. Some makers prefer a eiraight iron core,
and have ihe primary and secondary coils wound upon it
side by side, but well insulated from one another. In
Hopkinson's transformer, the core consists of iron wire
wound in the shape of a ring, and the coils are wound on
this. The transformer made by Messrs. Scott, Mountain,
and Co., and which has already been brought before the
institution in Mr. Mountain's paper, consists of a square
magnetic circuit, upon which two pairs of primary and
secondary coils are wound. Fig. 7.
The primary coil in a transformer consists of a long
thin wire, and the secondary a short thick wire. The
length of the wire in these two coils is determined by the
difference of voltage required. For instance : Suppose the
[wtential difference in tho mains is 1,000 volts, and the
lamps in the secondary circuit are 100 volts, then the ratio
ef the two voltages is 10 ; 1 ; therefore the primary must
have 10 times the length of wire there is in the secondary.
But the secondary will have almost 10 limes the amount of
current induced in it ; it must therefore have 10 times the
area of section. This decides the relative lengths only.
There is a certain amount of loss due to the magnetising
of the iron core.
From this it will be seen that by using a high-tension
alternating current electricity can be spread over a much
larger area, using much smaller conductors, and reducing
it by means of transformers to low tension and consequently
to the lamps, But there is also the extra cost of the
transformers, and the loss due to magnetising the cores,
etc, in them.
It may be here mentioned that transformers under
2 e.h.p. do not work economically, so in lighting shops or
houses, where only a few lights are required, it is advisable
to make one transformer supply two or three customers
situated close together, each having an independent meter.
With regard to the lamps, incandescent lamps work just
as well with alternating as with continuous current. Arc
lamps which are to work in alternating- currant circuits
are similar to ordinary continuous- current arc lamps, only
the iron core which works in the solenoid or coil should
consist of a bundle of very soft fine iron wire instead of one
solid bar. This is to help the rapid changes of polarity
due to the alternating currant, and also to prevent eddy
currents and heating. The carbons which are used in
these lamps are both the same length, as both burn at
equal rate, while with the continuous current the positive
carbon burns away twice as fast as the negative, and has
therefore to be twice as long.
TESTING PEES AT BIRMINGHAM.
The Corporation of Birmingham give public notice th.
the following scale of fees will be adopted to be taken I
the electric inspector apgtointad by them uuder the aa
orders— namely ;
Mark. MAINS, SERVICE UNE8, ETC. Fe.
Tuts to be taken. s.
I- Insulation of main, each teat 5
2. Conductivity a! main 7
8. Insulation of senice lines 2
t. Conductivity of rervice lines 4
5, Efficiency of jointB 3
I). Supply of ener^ at testinjic stations, perslation, per dioin 2
7. Teata of iogtruinents of undertakers, per instrument 1
8. Testa of electric lines of undertakers, other than mains
and service tinae, each test 3
Mark. METERS. F.
Nature of work done. s.
A. Testing and examining a met«r, and isauing a provlsianal
certificate 7
B. Visiting a consumer's premises on written requisition,
and examining or reodine a meter, or inapcctinf; the
fixing or unfixine thsreoi, for each visit 3
C. For each additionaTmeMr upon the same premisea, and
Bit the same visit 1
U. Testing and examining a doubtful metor 1:^
A report has been submitted to the Electric Lighting Com-
mittee of the Worcester Town Council by Mr. W. H. Preece.
who was called in to adjudicate upon the various schemes
sent in response to advertisement. The occasion is an
interesting one, as it is the first which has adopted on
any large scale the asking for the submission of projects as
contrasted with the invitation of tenders to definite specifi-
cation. The actual report is not yet made public, but it is
understood that the committee are in favour of the lowest
tender— that of the Brush Electrical Engineering Company
for £21,005. We are able, however, to give the general
outlines.
The report states that all the principal firms bare
tendered. There are 14 distinct systems, 10 being high
tension and four low tension. Of the 10 high-tension
schemes, seven are for alternating-current and three for
oontinuouB-cunent distribution, but it is interesting to note
that the high-tension continuous systems are quoted by far
the highest of all tenders. Every scheme proposes to use
the three-wire system. The low-tension advocates claim
the advantages of economy in first cost and working (not
supported by figures), the use of motors, storaee of energy,
extra safety, and greater etliciency. The advocates of
alternating systems claim economy in prima cost, especially
in mains (supported by figures), adaptability for pioneer
work, great elasticity, simplicity in working, power to place
the central station where coal and site are cheapest.
The question, the regxtrt states, is not danger, but
efiiciency and cheapness, as alternating current is now
raada as safe as direct current. There is no reason not to
accept the lowest tender. The great objection to open
tenders of the kind asked is that those tendering have a
tendency to cut things too fine, and leave out essentials,
trusting to being able to obtain extras. Several tenderers
leave out essentials, such as water connections and con-
densing pumps, opening and closing trenches, supply of
meters, spare parts, provision for expansion.
Amongst the other really necessary parts of an efficient
installation wbi;;h are omitted in the competitive projects
are those which provide for economical working, such as
heat economisers, mechanical stokers, feed-water heaters,
laggiug to steam pipes and boilers. The report states that
there would be great loss of energy in the mains on present
projects. There is an absence of testing appliances, and a
general curtailment of the secondary distributing system.
The Brush Company are among the least offenders in this
respect. There will not be many extras on their tender.
Those that are not specified are railings to machinery,
chequered floor plates, and travelling cranes. The next
lowest tender omits opening and closing trenches — a most
important item.
The report recommends the introduction of arc lamps
(50) in the streets, as likely to create public feeling in
favour of tha electric light. Those towns which have
introduced arc lamps have bad success, while those, like
Leamington, which have introduced incandescent lamps for
public lighting have made a failure. The income from
the installation (which is for 12,000 Sep. lamps) is esti-
mated at £10,800, at 6d. per unit; the working cost at
£5,400. The average revenue per 8-c.p. lamp will be 9s.
per annum, comparable to 5ft, gas at 3s. per 1,000. The
preferable site is at Diglis Lock, using water power. Tha
cost of building is estimated at £6,700 ; a station in town
would bo £5,000, so that this is only £1,700 extra, Tha
report estimates total cost as follows :
Contract £21,005
Extras 1,000
Street lighting 5,000
Building 6,700
Working capital and for extensions 6,295
\
Total .
. £40,000
The consent of the Local Government Board must be
obtained for this amount.
The report is to be submitted for confirmation to the
I Town Council.
324
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 1, 1892.
THE
tLECTRICAL ENGINEER.
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Editorial and Publlshinsr Offices :
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Notes 313
The Crystal Palace Ezhibi-
tkm 317
The Distribution of Elec-
tricity for Lighting Par-
poses 320
Testing Fees at Birmingham 323
WorocHter 323
Telephony and the Post
Office 324
The Lane Fox v, Kensington
Judgment 325
An Introduction to Qualita-
tive Chemical Analysis ... 326
Correspondence 326
Some Electrical Instru-
ments 327
Institution of Electrical
Engineers 328
Legaflntelligence 329
Companies' Meetings 331
Companies* Reports 334
New Companies Registered 335
Business Motes 335
Provisional Patents, 1892 ... 336
Specifications Published 336
Companies* Stock and Share
List 336
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TELEPHONY AND THE POST OFFICE.
On Tuesday another discussion arose in the House
of Commons based upon Dr. Cameron's motion :
" That the Post Office system of granting licenses
to private telephone companies having resulted in
the restriction of telephonic communication in this
country, and a costly and inefficient service, fchis
House is of opinion that, alike in the interest of the
postal telegraph and the telephone service, the tele-
phonic monopoly possessed by the Post Office should
be worked directly and in connection with the Postal
Telegraph Department."
This motion, after along discussion, was rejected by
a majority of fifty-eight. We considered this question
in our issue of March 4th, since when there have been
various public utterances on the subject, which con-
tinue to make the matter prominent. The latest
policy of the Government is to obtain the trunk
lines and allow private companies to do the rest.
As we said before, " that plan may be workable — we
doubt it." . So far as outsiders can see, the Govern-
ment policy has, during the past decade, been that
of Micawber — always waiting to see what would
turn up. Of all the proposed solutions to the
problem there is but one looming out more and
more distinctly as time moves on — the nation will
have to undertake the work. There is no help for
it, and all the fallacies put forth as arguments point
to this one result in the end. Successive Post-
masters-General may temporise, successive Chan-
cellors of the Exchequer may vacillate, but the
inevitable must come, and the sooner that fact is faced
the better for all concerned. It is admitted that the
Government has a monopoly of the telegraphs ; it is
admitted that the nation paid heavily for that
monopoly. The balance-sheets issued year by
year, however, show that the country has never
received even a moderate return for its capital.
And whatever be said to the contrary, we contend
the nation has a right to expect, not only that the
expenses be paid, but that the interest it pays upon
the capital be also earned. Till that point is reached
the investment as a business transaction is a failure.
The Government receives 10 per cent, from the
telephone companies upon their receipts. Does
that amount, be it £46,000, the sum mentioned as
paid by the National Company, or twice J£46,000,
recoup the Government for its loss on its other
telegraphic business? If it does, there is no
more to be said — the country is no loser ; but,
on the other hand, if the amount received
is less than that lost, the country is by so
much a loser. There is no difficulty in proving
the latter to be fche case. Our argument is that the
loss is the difference between the 2f per cent, paid
by the Government on the requisite capital, and the
4^ to 6 per cent, paid by the National, not only upon
its required capital, but upon its watered capital.
When ^ per cent, is paid upon capital, say, doubled
by watering, it means 9 per cent, upon requisite
capital. The loss to the Telegraph Department as
telephonic competition becomes keener will be a
gradually increasing one. Telephony now absorbs
a large part of the local traffic, and with well-
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 1, 1892.
325
managed tronk lines, in addition to the local lines,
will absorb the internrban traffic. Neither the
supporters of Dr. Cameron's motion nor those
opposing it put these facts clearly. They relied
upon a desultory discussion about consolidation of
companies, inefficiency of the great London company,
watering of stock, and procrastination of official
decision to waste an evcBing. Mr. Quilter took part
in the discussion on behalf of the telephone com-
pany, and candidly admitted the badness of the
London service ; but, says he, in effect, see, if we
can't give a good service in London, we or someone
elsa can elsewhere. Between Manchester and
Liverpool in one day 42,000 messages pass — that is, a
message every two seconds during twenty-four hours,
or every second during twelve hours. Over a trunk
line, too. Good business ; but is it quite accurate ?
We quite agree that the Government cannot con-
tinue a competitive service in towns where they also
grant licenses. The exception to the rule that
the Government service is least patronised is hard to
find. At Leicester, Mr. Quilter said the Govern-
ment had in 1890 subscribers to the number-of 130 ;
now they have 100, while the company in eighteen
months put on 275. We might add other examples
to that of Leicester. Thus, the Post Office has
exchanges at Cardiff, Newport, Barry, Pontypool,
Talywain, Aberdare, Merthyr, Ebbw Vale, Briton
Perry, and Swansea in the South Wales district, with
subscribers in December, 1890, numbering 122. The
licensees have exchanges in these places except
Talywain, and in one or two other small towns with
638 subscribers. In 1891 the competitors were on
their m^ettle. The Post Office added 73 subscribers
against the licensees' 140, the respective totals being
195 and 778. The Post Office reduced their rates
from £21. 10s. for the mile radius, £16. 5s. half-mile,
and jE14. lOs. for the quarter-mile, to £14 for the
mile, jE12 for three-quarter mile, £10 for half-mile,
and £8 for quarter-mile. The Western Counties
rates were £12, £11, and £10 for the mile, according
to period ; they had no half-mile rate prior to the
reduction of rates by the Post Office.
The multiplication of small exchanges in a town
or district belonging to competing interests is not
conducive to supply the wants of subscribers, and
unless the policy of the Post Office is to be to instal
their own exchanges everywhere, the system should
be avoided. This policy is a mere tinkering with
the nation's money, and has little in common with
true business principles.
THE LANE FOX v. KENSINGTON JUDGMENT.
In our last issue we discussed this case from a
point of view which applies to all similar cases, with
the specific object of combating ideas freely expressed
as to the necessity of technical judges. Our opinions
were adverse to such a system. The judgment upon
the case having been reserved, and not then delivered,
we were unable to comment upon the proceedings.
Now, however, reserve is no longer necessary, and
freedom of comment is permitted. Mr. Justice
Smith has given his verdict upon the lines expected.
According to the evidence, he could not do otherwise
than say the patent was infringed — if he held the
pateBt to be valid. The patent has been held
to be invaUd, hence Lane Fox loses his case. The
evidence given in this case will long continue to be
a monument of absurdities. Hardly a witness
attempted to confine himself to the knowledge of
1878, and the whole case may be reckoned as a
flagrant attempt to interpret disconnected sentences
strung together in 1878 by the increased knowledge
of to-day. It was left to the Judge himself to find
ifcems among the mass of evidence which should
enlighten him as to what was really known in 1878.
The Kensington case was lost as to infringement by
the evidence of their own witnesses, and by evidence
that was due to utter ignorance of really what
was known in 1878. The point which had an
enormous influence upon the success or non-success
of Lane Fox was that the final of his patent con-
tained matter taken verbatim from the provisional
of another patent, and was not an extension or
development of its own provisional. To the
unbiassed mind this was proof positive that when
the second provisional was taken out Lane
Fox himself regarded the matter as subject for a
new patent, and not as a discovery or invention
existing within the words of the original patent.
In other words he, in 1878, showed his hand and
destroyed the edifice he would in 1892 have us
believe he was about to construct. Mr. Justice Smith
found the patent was unworkable, but Lane Fox
showed he thought so too in 1878, though his con-
tention in 1892 was to the contrary effect. Another
point which undoubtedly had great influence upon
the judgment was that for several years after 1878
Lane Fox was in a position to test his invention,
and to use his invention to the utmost, but his
evidence pointed to the fact that so little was he then
enamoured of his production that he practically did
not trouble about it, but concentrated his whole
endeavours in another direction. After modifica-
tions were introduced, affcer successive disclaimers
in the hope that something out of the original
might be left upon which to found a claim, after
research, improvement, and development by others, he
comes forward in an attempt to rule the roost — an
attempt which has but narrowly escaped being
successful. We never saw a better fight. His
coimsel omitted no effort to win ; it is not their
fault, nor the fault of his witnesses — they were all
indefatigable : the inherent weakness of the case
was the result of its failure. There are some
portions of the evidence upon which we intend
to comment in another manner. Just now it is
the result, not the evidence, we are passing under
review. Still, a word may be said about the sins of
omission. Much was made of Planters book,
little of Planters work. There were men in court
who had seen Planters experiments — there were
dozens, scores, or himdreds who saw the Paris
Exhibition experiments of 1878. If we mistake not,
there were many times during that exhibition that
Plante had his connections exactly as Lane Fox says
he meant his to be — that is, the source, the secondary
battery, and the incandescent wfre were all in paraUel.
We are speaking from memory, but that is the best
of our recollection, having seen the experiments
again and again performed by Plants w- ' "
326
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 1, 1892
the wing of the late Count du Moncel. Besides these
points, the counsel for the defence laid stress upon
the lack of originality in the combination, though
the evidence upon the point was particularly weak,
while it might have been considerably strengthened.
In 1878, everything Lane Fox claims was well
known. Parallel incandescent lighting was well
known, and its possibilities known. What was
wanted was the lamp. The supply of current by
parallel wires was well known, therefore there was
no invention in the parallel supply. The invention,
if any, would have consisted in putting a secondary
battery parallel with the source and lamps. Such
batteries had then been used for incandescing parallel
strips of metal — not, perhaps, directly for lighting pur-
poses, but to show the different incandescence to
which the same lengths and sections of metals
would rise when put between the same mains.
We must congratulate the industry in having over-
turned the pretensions of those who have tried to
claim a position to which they had no right. In
the whole history of patents we fancy this is the
Arst example of one being killed upon its death-bed.
Fourteen years ago the patent was taken out. The
hfe of a patent is for fourteen years — hence, in the
natural order of things, this patent would have
lapsed a little later in the year, but it has been
summarily dismissed a little before its time.
CORRESPONDENCE.
UKYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
Sut,— I taw thii EJtcirical Exhibiiioii ai tbe CiysUil
Palace has not many attractions for ladies, judging from
the effect it had on my wife, who, hearing me say so much
in praise of it, started off by herself yesterday afternoon to
see it, after getting instructions from me where to go
and what to look for. In tbe train she was interested in
some small boys also going there, one of them asking if
amperes were good to eat, and another hoping to buy a volt
for a halfpenny and take it home to play with. On arriving
she hunted for the Brusb exhibit, and at last found it in a
glass case in one of tbe aisles ; sbe thought some of the
brooms were nicely made. She could not find the crane,
and tbe only bird she saw was an owl with four eyes all
round it, also a stand of tbiogs tike pickle-jars and chimney-
cleaners. Being very domesticated, she went to see the
cookery. Tbere were several things going round, and plenty
of electricity about that smelt like burned fat — perhaps they
were frying amperes; then the lecturer, who spoke very
nicely, asked for a hat aud a pancake was banded round. She
thinks the pancake was cooked in tbe bat, as sbe bad seen
that done elsewhere. After wandering among a lot of gla£^
jars full of electricity that smelt very nasty, she went up
in a nice lift (she is rather stout) to the galleries, saw all
the pictures and the furniture stalls, and in them at last
sbe found the crane, also the screen tbat sbe bad looked
for in vain downstairs. But there was no electricity about
them that sbe could see or smell, so after seeing all the
lamp stores and avoiding the noisy machinery, she came
home rather out of temper, so you may guess I spent a
pleasant evening. — Yours, etc., X.
CONDUITS.
Sir, — The note in your issue for to^lay with reference
to the electric lighting of Buchanan Castle, conveys the
impression that the electrical conduits that have been aut-
C6s«fully employed at Cragside, Lord Armstrong's place in
Northumberland, for some years past were designed, or at
all events iutroduced, by Messrs. Drake and Oorbam.
I am sure that this firm would not desire to convey so
erroneous an impression, but I may mention that, as a
matter of fact, the conduits in question were designed
entirely by Lord Armstrong and myself some considerable
time before tbe coming into existence of tbe firm of
Drake and Gorbam, and were erected by Lord Armstrong's
rn estate workmen.
It is probable that these conduits were the first practical
ample of bare conductors laid on insulators in troughs, a
method since largely adopted ; but the arrangement was
never patented, so it is open to anyone to copy it — ■
"lurs. etc. A. A. C, Swinton.
March 25, 1802.
AN INTRODUCTION TO QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL
ANALYSIS.
KY IIAKKKR NORTH, AWSUU, R-CSC. (LUND.),
Jiiim Author of " Introductory Lessons " and " Hand-book
of Quantitative Analysis."
(LwifmueU fivtn jnge 3-5ti.)
Evapiration.
may occasionally have to be resorted to
This
after solution, and will always "have to be performed
testing for the metals sodium and potassium in the wet
way in presence of other substances.
It is generally performed by heating the aolulioti in an
evajiorating-basin, by means of a Bunson burner, till the liquid
is reduced to a convenient bulk for analysis (Fig. 7). If the
liquid ha^ to be evajnirjled to dijiieas, the he.itiiig is carried
on in the same way till tbe substance is obtained in tbe dry
state, and in the presence of ammonium salts, which it is
necessary to get rid of, the heating is continued till th«
substance ceases to give off fumes of ammonia. This may
be attained much more quickly by transferring tbe dry
substance to a piece of platinum foil and holding this with
a pair of crucible tongs in the Bunsen flame.
Expeiimenl 22. — Evaporate a solution of ammonium
chloride to dryness. Observe that tbe substance entirely
disappears in white fumes on beating (see Fig. 7).
Prkcipitation,
After obtaining the substance in Solution, tbe next
process is to precipitate the metal or metals in an insoluble
state, and this is accomplished by gently pouring a solution
of the reagent into the liquid, hot or cold as the case may
be, aud afterwards warming if necessary. When tbe
reagent to be employed is a gas, it is bubbled through the
solution till tbe whole of tbe substance is precipitated.
Care should be taken never to add a large excess of the
reagent, except when otherwise stated.
Experim^t 23. — Make a solutioD of lead nitrate in water
or use tbe solution made in Experiment 19, and add dilute
hydrochloric acid drop by drop to tbe coH liquid till no
more precipitate seems to form. The white insoluble
residue thus formed is due to the reaction taking place
between tbe hydrochloric acid and tbe lead nitrate in
accordance with the foUowini; equation :
Pb(N03)3 -l- 3HC1 = PbClj -t- 2HN0,.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 1, 1892.
327
The precipitate on boiling will disappear, u it is wlnble
in hot water, but on cooling will reappear in the form of
long, white, acicular cryatale. Keep for future use.
Ei^erimmt 24. — Make a dilute solution of cadmium
aulphate (CdSO.) and pass sulphuretted hydrogen gas
thnmgh the eoU liquid (Fig. 6) ; a fine yellow precipitate
of cadmium sulphide will be formed, ns shown in the
following equation :
CdSO, + SH,, - CMS + HjSO,.
The lulphuretted hydrogen may be prepared (as shown
in Fiff. 8) by pouring dilute sulphuric acid aown the thistle
funnel on to ferrous sulphide contained in the Woulffs
bottle, A, and, after washing by passing through water in
the flask, B, it is bubbled through the solution containing
the cadmium (FeS + H.SO^ - FeSO, + -SHj).
Filtration and Washinu.
The next process, after the metal or metals have been
precipitated in the insoluble state, is to filter off the pre-
cipitate from the liquid, the latter being now called the
nitrate. In order to do this, a filter paper about 4in. in
diameter is folded in half, refolded into a quarter of it"
original size, and then opened out in the form of a cone,
with three layers of paper on one side and one on the other.
This is fitted into a glass funnel, a (Fig. 9), supported on u
wooden filtering stand, the paper being lized in position by
wetting with a little water, and the precipitate and liquid
are then poured in, the filtrate being caught in a small
beaksr placed underneath.
When the liquid has all drained away, it will bo neces-
aary to wash the precipitate three or four limes with hot or
cold water in order to remove the last traces of the filtrate
from the precipitate. If the washing is not carried out
conscientiously, the student will have some of the solution
belonging to ihe filtrate interfering with the reactions given
by the precipitate, in which case the best way is to throw
the whole thing down the sink and commence ngain. The
washings may in any case be discarded, as they contain
very little substance, and in qualitative analysis we can
afford to neglect this, as it only serves to inconveniently
accumulate the filtrate. Before the student, however, can
begin washing it will be necessary to furnish himself with
a wash-bottle.
(To be eotUxtmtd.)
SOME ELECTRICAL INSTRUMENTS.*
The increasing nuraber of cases in whfch accarate eleotriea
meuurementa bave to be made rsndera it mora than over necessary
to devote attention to the design of inatrnmenta, with the object
of making their use more convenient and expeditious, as well as
aooarate. Consider, for example, the form In which the standard
ohm if usually coriHtriictGil. tfie coil hnving t>
r more Inyent of
Fio. 1.
many turns each ; in using such a coil for a
there is considerable delay in waiting for the temperature of the
coil and water-bath to l>eciame uniform and equal, and even then an
uncertainty remains as to whether the turns near the top of the
coil are at the same temperature as those at the bottom. After
beating the bath, even with stirring, the water at the top may
be at a higher temperature than that at the bottom. The
surface, too, from which heat generated in the colt may be got
rid of by conduction Knd convection is comparatively smalt.
Prof. FleminKi in a paper read before this society in November,
188!t, pointed out these disadvantages, and descrtbed a coil in the
form of a ring of sauare section, which to a great extent obviates
them ; but even this coit has some length, and it has seemed
possible to go still further in this direction, and at the same time
to Bimplify the construction.
In the ohm coil shown in Fig. 1 the wire is wound in a flat
spiral, being first doubted on itself in the usual way to avoid self,
induction. The epinil is enclosed between two thin brass plates,
forming part of a very thin, flat, watertight box, and the elec-
trodes pass up a central tube. The wire is thus at one level in the
liquid, and has, therefore, a better opportunity of acquiring a
uniform temperature, which may be accurately ascertained by a
delicate thermometer passins down the centre, with the bulb at the
level of the spiral, A sacona thermometer in the water at the same
level servos to check the uniformity of temperature. In order
^ r\
C\
that the width of the coil may not prevent any slight c
currents from having free play, the screws which hold the plates
together have large holes through them. Following Prof.
FlemingH'H suggestion, the upper ebonite insulator is formed into
a oup to contain pnrafEn oil to prevent surface lealuge through
ideneed n
The
boi
9 the
of I
tempts to improve the ordinary form. The colli' are arranged
in Bets of 10 each, and their ends are connected to sockets fixed in
rows on an ebonite board. Successive coils are put in circuit by
placing a plug, attached Ui a flexible cord, in the required socket ;
thus the resistance maybe Increased from 1 to 11,110 ohms by
■ Paper read befoca the Fbyaloal Sooiaty, March 2.i,
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 1, 1892.
■t«pa of one obm i[ nooewMy. Tb» advuitaeai
this uTuiKemeDbar«foatid to bo ufbllowi. The danger of Horfaca
leakage acrou the ebonite from block to block in the radiuarj form,
where the narraw gap between them is not eaaily kept dean, ia
obviated b^ tbe la^ open space between the sockete. The contact
reaiitanoe m circnit ia ooaetant, and eBBilyineMnred ; it ia rednoad
to a minimom by each plag fitting* solidlf the contact over the
whole of ite oircumferenoe, ineteadof os abont one-thiid of it, u
in tbe ordinary form. Tbe hole between the blooke of an ordinary
reeiatanoe-box alters iU form with temperatnre, or any warping of
tbe ebonite board, but the contact reeietaoce at iheee socketa ia
not affected thereby. A rise in temperature of QOdeg. C. will
make the longer diameter of an ordinary reflistance-box plug-hole
i per cent, greater than the shorter, owing to the difference
oetween the coefficient of expaoBion of ebonite* and of brass.
The flexible cords each consist of between 200 and 300 strands of
fine copper wire, and ore not found to be affected by uae. In
using the set of coils as a Wheatatone bridge, or as an ordinary
reeistance-box, the rapidity and ease of adjustment of the well-
known -'dial" form are preserved, while the instrament is more
compact and portable ; the plugs being attached to the instrument
are not liable to be mislaid.
Bnt the arrangement of the instrument renders it available for
several other usee. By means of the special contact bar, shown in
the illustration, from two to ten coils in each row may be placed
in parallel, thus making the instrument available as a conductivity
box of large range, for measuring low reeistanoes. For tjie
measnremenl of currents by the voltmeter method, 10 one-ohm, or
10 one-tenth ohm coils may be placed in parallel to give
of tbe contact bar large ratios between two resistances, of great
importance in the construction of high resistances, may be accu-
rately obtained. To do this, the method described by K.
Kohlrausobt is employed; forexample.one set of 10 coils being put
in parsUel so aa nearly to eqnal the other set of 10 coils in series,
the small difference (error) between the two is ascertained by
Poster^ method ; then each of nine of the higher resistance)!
being checked against the first of Its series, all the data for
finding the exact proportion between the first coil of tbe one set
and the other set of 10 in parallel are ascertained. The set of
colls ma^ be naed as a potentiometer by connecting the battery to
its termmaU and using a pair of travelling plugs, between which
any reaietanoe from one to 10,000 ohms may be included.
The reSeoting galvanometer illuatrnted in Fig. 3 has coils
enclosed in ebonite boxes turned out to fit them. They are wound
in accordance with SirW. Thomson's law for the greatest magnetic
effect at the centre, each being provided with iba own terminals.
They can be joined up as desired, and a pair of high or of low
resistance coUs may be used on the same instrument. When nsed
aa an astatic galvanometer, one of the needles is placed at the back
of the mirror in the thiok metal box below the coils, and the plug
which carries the window in front may then be pushed in to aid in
damping the vibrations of the needle by air friction. The needle may
* As given by Mayer, A
1891.
f AnuaitM tier I'hyiil wid Chtmit,
Journal of St
1S87.
on an ebonite pillar so as to give good eartb-insulation, and tbtt
directing mwnete ate placed at the bottom, so that tdwy may be
adjusted without setting tbe insbrnment in vibration.
INSTITUTION OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEEBS-
At the meetiof; of the Institution on March 34, the
following discussion took place on Mr, Beckenzaun'i paper
on " Load Diagrams of Electric Tramwaya, and the Cost of
Electric Traction " :
Mr. Maemahan said he had not found snch large variationa of
tbe volts as Mr. Reckenzann mentioned. In his own practioe he
had occasionally found as mnt^h as 130 volts variation when running
his dynamo simple shunt, or when tbe belt slipped ; bnt when
running compound, the maximum range was from 420 to BOO.
Mr. Keckenzaun's curves were obtained mim readings taken every
five seconds ; if thoy had been token by a recording instrament
they would, bethought, have been found very much more roanded,
ihe tops of the peaks being often quite flat for two aeconda
together. The current curve of a line when eight cars are on at
once, he had found Co show comparatively moderate variations,
say, from 100 to 300 amperes, and never dropping below 80. When
the number was reduced to livr ''- '
irr^ular, and frequently dropped
and volte varying proportions tely
cars, he thought the average vb—'
cent^ He dianot believe in the
and considered them as rather a
Hr, Volk said it was desirable to equalise the load on tbe
engineasfaras possible, as it was very uneconomicalto have thelatter
several times more powerful than was required tor the averane
toad. He said that at Brighton he had a one-ton flywheel running
at ISO revolutions on a 12-h.p. engine, and was abie to start two
oars at once, whereas with a light flywheel the attempt would have
pulled the engine up. The cost at Brighton was about 4d. per c*r
mile, running 23,000 car miles per annum. It was an edge rail
track, which made the power required considerably less that on a
street line with erooved rails.
Mr. Baker, of the Thomson -Houston Company, said that tbe
German figures in the paper were new to bim. Mr. ftaokenxaiin
had referred to the low cost of labour there as compared to
America. How did the cost of labour and fuel in Qermany oom-
pare with that in England ? In putting down a plant in England,
the data obtained from American experience had to be much modi-
fied. He had obtained from America a motor which had given very
good resultethere, and had found that it wasnot nearly Bosatisfoctory
~~ Leeds, where he used it in November on different rails andmnddy
very
With 10 or more oars,
what they now do for five
I would not exceed 10 per
of accumulators as steadiBrB,
practice. His expenses were therefore much greater than those of
a purely commercial line. On this account he hesitated to give the
figures th At Mr. Reckenzaun had asked For witJiout prefacing them
with the explanation of how it was that they were eo maoh in
excess of the American ones, where everything was cut and dried.
The following costs per car mile were obtained from an averaga
fortnight's run. General expenses (salaries, office expenses, ete.)
1 13d. ; transport expenses (including drivers, conductors, and
inspectors), S'17d. ; maintenance of equipment, -33d. He bad
some difficulty in getting a compe(«nt staff accustomed to motors,
and had been obliged to get two men at high wages from Amerio
to iastract them ; his head engine driver alone got £3. lOa. per
week. Their engine, too, was running much under its full load (a
200-h.p. engine runnint; at 7S h.p.) Five cars were plenty to do
the work all the week, but on Saturday and Sunday SO or 60
would not be too many. He sometimes had 1 16 people on a OOft.
car. There was therefore plenty of reason for the transport
expenses being so heavy. The maintenance of equipment was
principally for new wheels, the original ones not being suitable to
the rails used at Leeds.
Mr, BnsseU showed a digram of current on the Hagna-
9cheveninK line : outside the town, running at about 11 miles per
hour on T-heoded rails the tractive force on a straight level was
about 201b. per ton. In town the speed was seven milee per hour.
The cars weighed 17 tons (including batteries and passengers),
200 cells were used, two in parallel in town and all in series
outside. Each run (about 30 minutes) required about 2D ampere-
hours, of which nine ampere-hours were expended in starting from
reet and getting up to normal speed. The start averaged five or
BIX per mile. The average horse-power over the run out and back was
about 13. In reply to a remark from Mr. Kapp that 17 tous per
car was exceptiontdlv heavy, Mr, Russell pointed out that this
included 200 cells and 60 passengers.
Mr. Dolby thought that a great deal of power was lost in
starting from roet with a rigidly -geared motor, and thought it
would effect a great saving if the motor were allowed to att«in its
normal speed and were then put on by friction gear with consider-
able slip at first.
Hr. Manville thought that the engine might be spared a good
deal of strain by the use of a set of accumulators— not the ordinary
expensive type, hut plain lead plates ; these woold charge whan
the load suddenly dropped, and would help the en^ne for a short
time when a number of cars were started at once. Electric trams
would, he said, never be really sucoesafut as long as a clause for
the protection of the telephone companies prevented the use of
earth return. It was piactically impossible to run a two-wire
overhead tine. A Birmingham tramways company hwl dropped
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 1, 1892.
329
their Bill entirely on account of being unable to get the Clause
omlttted. In America they thorouehly recognised the principle
that the roadways were first of all tor traffic, and that when the
interest of traffic clashed with the interest of people who used
the roadways for other purposes, the former must prevaiL
Mr. RvaMll wished to know the weight of the Thomson-
Houston oars.
Discussion adjourned.
LEGAL INTELLIGENCE.
LANE FOX V. KENSINGTON AND KNI6HTSBRID6E
ELECTRIC U6HTIN6 COMPANY, LIMITED.
This was an action (before Mr. Justice A. L. Smith, sitting for
Mr. Justice Romer) to restrain the defendants from inMnging the
plaintiff's patent, No. 3,988 of 1878, for "improvements in
obtaining bght by electricity, and in distributing and regulating
the electric currents for the same, and in the means and apparatus
employed therein." The trial of the action lasted 15 days, and on
Friday, March 18, his Lordship took time to consider his judgment.
The Attorney-General (Sir R. Webster), Mr. Moulton, Q.C.,
and Mr. J. C. Graham were for the plaintiff; and Sir Horace
Davey, Q.C., Mr. Finlay, Q.C., and Mr. Roger Wallace for the
defendants.
Mr. JnsMoe A. L. Smitb, on Wednesday, delivered judgment as
follows : This is an action brought by Mr. St. George Lane Fox,
an electrician of hish repute, to test the validity of a patent taken
oat by him on October 9, 1878. The plaintiff alleges that he then
hit upon the idea that by utilising secondary batteries, as invented
by Plants, and coupling them up to the mains which conveved the
E M.F. in his system of distribution of electricity, such force
oould be kept constant in the mains, and thus an even, steady
light would be had in incandescent lamps, which otherwise would
not be. The Attorney-General designated this invention as being
one to keep a constant potential at the lamps with a " variable
load." It has been proved that the system of distribution of
electric current for incandescent lighting in conjunction with the
nee of secondary batteries by reservoirs was a novel and valuable
•ugg^tion which has aided the perfecting of that science which
has culminated in the incandescent lighting of the present day,
and it certainly appears to me that if the plaintiff dia invent and
carry to a practical result what is now claimed for him, he is an
Inventor of very great merit. Some 10 years prior to the year
187S Gaston Plante had invented and brought into use what is
known as a " secondary battery " — that is, a reservoir in which the
electric current emanating from a generator could be stored.
Daniell, my brother Grove, and Smee had also invented cells to
act as accumulators of electric energy, and these were in common
use in telegraphy and other electrical work. The use of switches
was also well known. They were means by which an electric
current could be turned on or off, whether into or out of an
accumulator, or in some other circumstances in which it was
desired to turn on or off the electric current. Prof. Forbes
told me that switches were as commonly used in electricity
as water tape in the distribution of water. This secondary
battery of Plants consists of a number of cells joined
together, each cell holding sulphuric acid, in which are immersed
Slates of lead rendered porous and oxidised by a process fully
escribed by him. These secondary batteries had before 1878 been
used for the storage of electric energy, and utilised, among other
things, for the ringing of bells or kinaling lights, the energy then
wanted bein^ let out of the secondary battery by the pressure of
a button, as is well known to many. Prior to 1878, attempts had
been made at lighting by electricity, the means adopted oeing to
place arc lamps into what is called series — that is, into line — and
to pass the electric current through each lamp, and thence to what
is known as "earth." This system, though suitable to the lighting
of lamps in streets and such like, was not adapted to the
lighting of the interior of houses and other buildings, as is
now done bv incandescent lighting, and, to use the words of
Sir Frederick Bramwell, a director of the defendant company,
*' The great question of the day was the distribution of
electric Tight." In this state of circumstances the plaintiff took
out his patent of October 9, 1878. In it, among other things,
he sought to bring about a distribution of the electric current, or,
in other words, to divide the main current into a number of small
currents branching off from them, so that by placing his lamps
into what is called parallel— that is, at the side ol the main
current instead of in a line with it- each lamp might be fed by a
small current which, when it had performea its mission at the
lamps and exhausted its energy, or, in technical language, had
reacned zero potential, should p>a88 on therefrom to earth. By this
means of distribution of the electric current and the other means
stated in the specification, the plaintiff designed to li^^ht, by
incandescent lighting, towns and other inhabited districts.
The name the Attorney-General gave to the proposed syptem
was '*the multiple parallel incandescent bridge." The plaintiff,
as before stated, tor the purpose of carrying out nis pro-
posal, determined to couple up the secondary batteries of
Planum to his system of distribution. The complete specification,
as it now stands, states that the purpose of so doing was to '* dis-
tribute and regulate the electric current for obtaining light by
electricity." The plaintiff's case is that by coupling secondary
batteries to the mains the electric energy therein would flow from
the mains into the batteries when the energy in the mains was
above equilibrium, and also flow from the batteries into the mains
when the energy therein was below equilibrium, and that thus a
constant potential would be kept in the mains and the light in the
lamps steady. The defendants, in the first place, assert that the
specification shows that Plants batteries were resorted to by the
plaintiff, not for the purpose, as he now states, of regulating the
electric current, but for the purpose of storing up what E.M.F.
might emanate from the generator when the load upon the main was
light, or, in other words, when lamps were off, and of using such
stored-up force when the load upon the mains became heavy—
that is, when the lamps were on — or when the generator was not
at work. They say that the present claim of the plaintiff as to
using secondary batteries for regulating the electric current is
not to be found in the complete specification as it originally stood,
and that it is only rendered possible by an adroit amendment
made therein in the year 1883, when the second disclaimer takes
place. It becomes necessary to see what the complete specifica-
tion did contain when filed on April 9, 1878. The Attorney-
General, in opening the case, and again at the end of his reply,
told me that if Mr. Lane Fox had now. in the year 1892, to sit
dowi] and rewrite a provisional and complete specification of his
invention of 1878, with all his subsequent knowledge, he would
write them again in the same words and the same form. This
statement in reply somewhat stretched my credulity, seeing that
he and Sir Horace Davey had occupied me for 15 days in trying
this case, a very considerable portion of which had been taken up in
discussing what the two documents meant. By the complete specifi-
cation Mr. Lane Fox claimed for improvements in electric lighting
by, amongst others, the six following means : 1 . By means of the
distribution of electric enerey bv means of branches and sub-
branches. 2. By means of this distribution in conjunction with
incandescent lamps. 3. By means of an apparatus for measuring
electricity. 4. By means of the employment of secondary batteries
as reservoirs in combination with his system of distribution. 5.
Bv means of the use of a regulator and other mechanical mechanism
wnerewith to regulate the E.M.F. in the mains. 6. By means of
mechanism wherewith to convey electric energy. On January 26,
1882, the plaintiff disclaimed his claim to his appliances where-
with to measure and to convey electric energy, and on July 30,
1883, he further disclaimed his claim to his distribution of the
electric current, whether alone or in conjunction with the incan-
descent lamp, and also his claim to the regulation and other
mechanism which I shall hereafter for the sake of brevity call the
electrometer. It will be seen that all that was left of his patent,
as the specification now stood, was his claim for distributing and
regulating the electric current for obtaining light by electricity
by means of the employment of secondary batteries as reservoirs
01 electricity in combination with a mode or system of distribution
of electric energy. In the specification, after describing a lamp
and the way of distributing toe electric energy and the mains for
measuring it, the plaintiff makes this statement: "The E.M.F.
of the electric conducting mains should bo kept as nearly as
possible constant at, say, 100 volts of British Association units of
E.M.F." The Attorney-General, in opening this case, stated that
this mention of 100 volts showed the foresight of Mr. Lane Fox, for it
was the pressure now universally adopted. This, upon the evidence,
appears not to be so, nor does there seem to be any special virtue
at all in having a pressure of 100 volts. Mr. Lane Fox then pro-
ceeds to deal with secondary batteries as follows : ** A number of
secondary batteries, such as Plante's (lead and sulphuric), such
batteries being joined together in series between the main and the
earth, will serve as a kind of reservoir for the electricity. The
cells should have a very large conducting surface, and there should
be several batteries connected up at several points of the mains,
so that, by increasing the E.M.F. during the hours when not much
electricity is being used, they will become charged, and the E.M.F.
will be stored up in them, so that a sufficient supply vrill be
available when tne E.M.F. falls owing to the dratt from the
mains, when the force is most used and needed. The number
of cells in each of these batteries will depend upon the
E.M.F. of the mains." It is true that in the paragraph about
secondary batteries Mr. Lane Fox does not mention anything
about their being employed to keep the E.M.F. in the mains
constant, but in another place he is explicit on the matter. He
says : '*In order to keep the E.M.F. constant, it is desirable to
have, in the first place, several generating machines, also a number
of reservoir batteries as before explained." He then goes on to
disclose his electrometer. It was known to electricians of that time
that, by reason of the resistance of the mains, the further the
electric current travelled up them from the dynamo, the less was
the potential in that current ; in other words, that by reason
of the resistance of the mains the further the lampe upon
circuit were situated from the dynamo, the less illuminating
power they received. This upon a long circuit was matter of
moment. Anxious as I am to read the specification in favour of
the patentee, I cannot do so without seeing that Mr. Lane Fox,
when he drafted it in April, 1879, had in his mind, as regards the
matter now in hand, two separate and distinct ideas. The one
was that by coupling up secondary batteries to his system of dis-
tribution of electric current he might be able to neutralise the
pressure of the mains, and then render constant the E.M.F. therein
(this would be in aid of the dynamo, as Prof. Perry stated) ; the
other was to regulate such E.M.F. in the mains (and this, as it
seems to me, was for the benefit of the lamp). These ideas are
separate and distinct. Prof. Forbes stated that his reading of the
specification was that Mr. Lane Fox meant a constancy of the
pressure all over and at all times. Mr. Lane Fox, in cross-exami-
nation upon his lecture delivered at the Royal Institution in 1882,
stated to the same effect. In my judgment, the defendants are
not correct when they state that Mr. Lane Fox by thia
tion only claimed the use of secondary batteriM •■ Hi~
330
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 1, 1892.
by these batteries he also claimed to keep the E.M.F. in the mains
constant. I am against the defendants on this point. The defen-
dants, however, say that if the specification is to be read as I read
it— the patent is bad, because the complete s))ocification as it now
stands is not in conformity with the provisional. This (Ktint
ap()earB to me to be n formidable one for the plaintifT. It is
unnecessary to go over the earlier oases cited by counsel on either
side, for they are dealt with in the late case in the (-ourt of Appeal
of Nuttall r. Hargreave (L.R. (189*2), 1 Ch., ilii). The law is
clear. It is this : A patentee must describe the nature of his inven-
tion in his provisional si)ecification. He need not go into details, but
he must describe, as I have said, the nature of his invention. In his
complete specification when going into detail he must describe the
same invention ; if not, the patent is bad. Now, what has Mr.
Lane Fox done here ? In his provisional specification he states :
'* The E.M.F. for the electric conducting mains should be kept as
nearly as possible constant at, say, 100 volts of British Association
units of E.M.F. A number of Plantt'^'s (lead and sulphuric acid)
cells joined together in series between the main and the earth
will serve as a kind of reservoir for the electricity. In order
to keep the E.M.F. in the mains constant it is desir-
able to have in the first place several generating machines."
It must be noted that he does not here state that secondary
batteries are available for this constancy as in his complete
specification he does, but proposes that the generators should
keep the E.M.F. constant and not even in conjunction with the
secondary batteries. He then goes on to state that it is necessary
to have the electrometer for the purpose of regulating the E.M.F.
This provisional specification, reading it most favourably for the
plaintifi^, can only be read to claim for the invention of using
secondary batteries, the keeping of the E.M.F. constant. I have
no doubt that in the complete specification, as originally filed in
April, 1879, the words " regulating the electric current " at page 3,
line 16, and at page 5, line 44, were solely applied to the electro-
meter. What nas been done in this ? Upon disclaiming the elec-
trometer OD July 30, 1883, four years after the complete specifica-
tion, it was sought to apply the words ** regulating the electric
current," which nad been theretofore solely applicable to the elec-
trometer, to secondary batteries so as to claim for them not only
the power of keeping tlie force constant in the mains but of regu-
lating it therein. The question is, does the plaintifi'now claim tor
the same invention in his complete s|)ecification as it stands ns he did
in his provisional specification? I say he does not. In the provisional
specification he claimed as his invention the use of secondary
batteries in aid of the dynamo to keep Uie E.M.F. in the mains
constant, whereas he now, by his amendment of his complete
specification, claims as his invention the use of secondary batteries,
not only to keep the E M.F. constant in the mains in aid of the
dynamo, but also to regulate the E.M.F. in the mains for the
benefit of the lamps. The case is this. In the provisional specifi-
cation he claimed by his use of secondary batteries invention X,
in the provisional specification he further claimed by the use
of the electrometer invention Y. In the complete s[>ecification
he now claims by the use of the secondary batteries inventions
X plus Y. How can it be said that he now claims in the
complete specification the same invention as he did in the pro-
visional unless X and Y are the same invention, which in my
judgment they are not? And what is more, the evidence leads
me to conclude that secondary batteries when coupled up to a
main will, under certain conditions, bring about some of the
regulation force originally claimed for them. The eminent elec-
tricians called by the plaintiff, in conjunction with those called by
the defendants, have satisfied me that in some circumstances,
especially when fuUv charged, secondary batteries coupled to the
Elaintiffs system of distribution have an inherent power of regu-
iting the E.M.F. in the mains, but the amount and value of such
power was a matter of dispute. The evidence shows that the
Datteries, automatically worked, will not keep the E.M.F., in the
mains constant. As to the power of regulation. Prof. Perry stated
that the compensating effect was a very imoortant one, and that the
advantfikge ox the patent was to prevent nickering. The plaintiff
declared this invention was a departure from many of the things
written before 1878, and, as regards that part of his invention for
distributing electric current, together with coupling up of
secondary oatteries to the mains, I think this may be so. Prof.
Silvan us Thomi)son stated that with batteries so i)laced the
regulating effect whs a necessary consequence. Prof. Barrett also
stated that secondary batteries, he knew, would o^ierate to bring
about a constant pressure, and Prof. Forbes said that they had
the regulating effect spoken of by the witnesses, and he added,
*' I have always considered secondary batteries most essential for
steadiness of light," and went so far as to say that he had
never seen steady light without secondary batteries He
then alluded to the lights of the court in which I was
sitting and for which no secondary batteries are used, and
told me that the lights were varying from 15 to 20 volts. In
my judgment, if this was so, for all practical pur{.K)ses the light
was an even and steady one, and as good as could be desired.
The witnesses called for the defendants did not deny that secondary
batteries had some regulating effect. Sir Frederick Bramwell
said : ** I think they may be acting as regulators in part. I think
the batteries would help to maintain the constant pressure at the
mains. I think the secondary batteries would tend largely to
correct the rise and fall of voltage where lamps were turned on
and off. The batteries would maintain, or tend to maintain, a
constant E.M.F. at the lam{is." He also stated that they
could not be used automatically. Dr. Hopkinson, upon this
{X)int, stated that secondary batteries would always diminish
the flicker. If there were a flicker they would have exactly
the same effect with a steam engine as with a gas engine.
If the batteries were taken away, there would be abeolately
no difference upon the presaure in the mains There are scores
of stations without batteries. Mr. Crompton stated that secondary
batteries with switches remaining constant did not tend at all to
diminish flicker. Mr. Miller, the resident engineer at Kensington
Court station (the defendants* station), stated that seoondary
batteries do not automatically regulate the potential, although he
said in cross-examination, if there be a change of pressure in the
mains the secondary battery minimises the effect. Mr. Swinburne
declared you could not use seoondary batteries for storage so as to
be of use against flickering. Mr. Kennedy, the civil engineer,
who had made tests wholly unconnected with this action,
produced them to explain the extent that regulation by a
secondary battery was capable of, and he stated that «
secondary battery would help in regulating small variaiions»
and he adds : ** For very small variations such as continually take
place in a circuit with many lamps, the seoondary battarioB
will help to steady the lights ; they do not keep the pres-
sure constant.'* Mr. Drake, who has been working practically
at batteries since 1884, and has had hundreds of batteries nnder
his charge, and who was, to my mind, a particularly intelligent
witness, stated: ** There is a prevention of flicker by nee of
secondary batteries if fully charged, even though the motiye force
be a steam engine and dynamo. That is, if Uie actions are Tery
quick, if a few lamps are shut off, in a small system, so that the
snutting off of a few lamps affects the light, the secondary
batteries would help to regulate, but only ror a few momenta.
And Mr. King, who nad hs^ ^reat practical experience in mana*
facturing secondary batteries smce 1883 and hflMd made npwarda
of 38 new experiments in charging and discharging them,
stated, in crosd-examination : "I will swear tnat there
would be no more variation (that is, in the voltage
in the mains) with secondary batteries than without them.
I say the secondary batteries, the current running con-
stant, tend to cause a variation rather than diminish it."
It was proved that many installations were worked without the
application of the secondary batteries at all, the Law Courts being
amongst the number, and, as before stated. Dr. Hopkinson
deposed to scores of stations existing without secondary batteries.
It is true the secondary batteries are extensively used, though
obviously by no means universally. Mr. Drake told me that he
was connected with about 250 installations of incandescent
lighting, of which about one-third had no secondary batteries and
the other two- thirds had. He had also stated, and I have no reason
to doubt him, that the object of using secondary batteries was to
serve as reservoirs, to enable the engine to be stopped and
yet to have the .incandescent lighting continued from the
motive force stored up in the batteries. In cross-examina-
tion he said that he had some batteries on with dynamos ^ing, but
that he charged them by day and worked them off by night. Sir
Frederick Bramwell, Mr. Crompton, and others, gave strong
evidence that the principal use of secondarv batteries was as
reservoirs, and this apijears to me to be the case. Scientific
evidence was given to snow what was the real rise and fall of
voltage in the batteries and mains upon the application or with-
drawal of the E.M.F. therefrom. This evidence was illustrated
by diagrams which it would be impossible to reproduce here. In
my judgment the plaintiff, as to the controlling effect of secondary
batteries, has placed his cane too high, and the real truth is
that if there be a short, quick flicker at a lamp a secondarv
battery coupled up with the main will at times help to diminish
it ; but that secondary batteries as designed to be used by
the plaintiff— that is, without mechanical and manual services '
will not bring about the constancy of pressure which the
plaintiff claimed for them in his original speciflcation. The result
of the evidence upon this head I may, I think, accurately sum up
in the words of an article in the Engineer newspaper of December 20,
1890, which the Attorney -General used largely in cross-examina-
tion of the defendants' witnesses. Mr. Crompton, Mr. Miller, and
Mr. Kennedy said that the words were fairly accurate. They are
as follows : *' One of the advantages found by having more than
one pair of butteries attached to the system at points totally wide
a|>art is that thci effect of the regulating movement of switching in
an extra cell would show a difference of two volts on the lamps is
partly neutralised by the distant battery.'* Mr. Lane Fox, in hie
declaration made in Marcli, 1883, state<l that the effect of the
chantfc of about one volt u|K>n a lamp was practically nothing ;
and if Prof. Forbes was correct in stating that there was a change
of from 15 to 20 volts in mv court, it is obvious that a 2- volt change
is of little im|X)rtance. The Board of Trade sanction a change of
four volt'H uf) and four volts down. In my opinion the point taken
by the defendants is fatal to the plaintifi^s case, and the specifica-
tion as it now stands does not claim the same invention as the
provisional. I might stop here, but as others may not agree with
me I shall give judgment also upon some of the other points
raised. His Lordship dealt with the other points of the case at
great length, and reviewed the authorities, and concluded as
follows : I have now held that the patent is bad upon the ground
that the complete specification does not conform to the provisional ;
upon the ground that the invention as described cannot be made
to work, and also upon the ground that if it could no sufficient
information is given as to how it was to be made to work ; and I
have stated my reasons f ull^ for so holding. It is not necessary to
give any further judgment m the case, but had the plaintiff been
able to surmount the above difficulties, and had he established
that by his invention he could have brought about what the
Attorney-Cteneral said he could, my judgment would have been
that his invention was the subject-matter of a patent, that it had
not been anticii)ated, and that the defendants had infringed it. I
give judgment for the defendants with costs.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 1, 1892.
331
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
LONDON ELECTRIC SUPPLY CORPORATION.
The fifth ordinary general meeting of thid Corporation was held
at the Cannon-street Hotel on Friday morning, 2oth ult., the
Chainnan (Mr. Jamee Staata Forbes) presiding.
The Baentaiy and Manager (Mr. Charles B. Wallor) having
read the notice convening the meeting.
The CludnBMi said he presumed uie roi)ort (published in la^t
week's Efecirical Engineer) would be taken as read. Shareholders
having signified their assent, he asked for their consideration, as
he had been suffering from a bad throat, and was afraid his voice
was a little weak. A good deal of his life had been passed in try-
ing to make the best of a bad business, and that was what he hod
to do then. He had been trying to satisfy his own mind — f>eopIe
said no one could inspire belief in others unless they believed in
themselves — and tofinaout from the figures in the accounts and from
the report whether there was really any ground for despair, or
whether there was ground for hope. And he had solved the matter
oo the figures themselves by resorting to that wonderful (fualifying
thing, the *' if." He did not know that he couhl put it (lUo actusu
cxmoition of things) before them more graphically or more truly
than by saying that if something hadn't happened which hod
happened, the state of affairs would have been that, instead of
meeting to deplore a loss, they would liave met to pronounce a
profit. If they would kindly turn to the revenue account, which
was the essence of the whole business, he would present that
proposition to them in the figures. They wouhi see tlierc that
the total outlay for the year was £±2,517. n>s. 7d., and that
the total receipts had been £1.'),,')()0. 1 7s. lid. Therefore
there w&s a loss by balance of £6,057, which showed exactly
the money that had been spent in excess of what hod been
received. And then there was his "if.'' Why was this?
In 1890 their receipts were £'28,684, in 1891 they were only
£15,560. If in the interval the calamities of the C'Ompany
had not led to a great number of consumers who were customers
in 1890 leanng them altogether, and so reducing the income for
the year by £13,124, their ix)sition, of course, would Iiavo been
very different. In 1890 the exjjenses were £'28,704, and in 1891
£22,517* and that accounted for the greater \m.rt of the £6,900
adverse balance. It came really to this, that if they had remained
in the position they ended 18{K) in, they would have had a ))rotit
instead of a loss, and the difference would have been exactly in
that shape which was so agreeable when it was in the right direc-
tion, ana so adverse and disagreeable when in the wrong direction,
because the £6,0(X) odd of profit was turned into that amount of
loss, making, of course, £12,(XK) to the bad. This was really the
long and the short of the business. The reason why they hod got
into this position in the current year they were already ix>sse8sed
of, because in March last, when tliey met to deal with the accounts
of 1890, that calamity had already occurred— viz. , the fire at the
Grosvenor — which suspended their business between November
and February, and susi)ension of their business, of course, took
away the greater part of tlie customers which were liglited up to
the date of the fire. Perhaps lie hod better illustrate tne otieration
of it (the calamity) by figures. On November 15, 1890, the date
of the Grosvenor fire, they had 312 customers with 38,272 lights.
The fire came, the whole thing collapsed, and for many weeks
there was no supply at all. It was not until February of the year
1891 that they were able to begin to light. The change of circum-
stances was such that instead of having 38,272 lights to light up,
they had only 9,000, but that 9,000 had been growing from day to
day almost, certainly from month to month, ever since. On February
15, 1891, having had that long interregnum, the Hoard devoted
themselves and ttieability of all the engineers and advisers they had, to
startthething u()on something like a permanent basis. Shareholders
knew that they had to remo\e the machinery from the <'ro8venor
station to Deptford, so that the latter might su()ersede the former.
A good deal of time was occupied, and a good deal of money s^^ent
on this, and they started in February with the belief that at all
events they had got a machine that would run. But they had to
begin with 9,0(N) lights, and that number had increased by slow
steps until it had reached, on March 22, 1892, 36,463, so that they
haa taken, as it were, the whole vear to overtake the number of
customers who had lights when the disastrous fire took }ilace in
November, 1890. Unfortunately, the anticifMitions of the engineers
upon which the Board founded their exijeciations were not realised
to the full, because, although it became an aseortained fact that
current could be generated at Deptford, ond coulrl he transmitted
to London and there redistributetl to the conHumer, they had not
attained in the first period of that ex^)eriment that |>erfcction of
the |»rt8 upon which efiiciency depended, and they sutferetl the
same kind of disaster which very often befell exfHjriments : the
theory was right enough, but in practice it was not (|uite so
efficient as it might be— and that was their experience. After they
had started that thin^i and after people began to come back to
them, they had casuidties, breaks down of the mains, of the trans-
formers, of the dynamos, interruptions of the light, and so forth.
And a very serious calamity of that sort occurred in the month of
November, when from that curious coincidence of causes which it
was impossible to trace— of course, there must be a cause, but a
cause beyond any electrician or engineer he had been able to
meet— the whole thing came to collapse : dynamos went wrong,
mains went wrong, everything went wrong, and for four days or
more they were without ligYit. There was in a lesser degree
what had taken place when the (irosvenor fire occurred. They
had worked up their customers. Then came then- disasters,
and down the numbers went again ; and of course not only did the
numbers go down, but people who had not contracted to take the
current from that Company were alarmed. Some clubs and other
people went off. Now that would account for the state of the
balance-sheet at the end of the year — a year which only com-
menced in the middle of February, and which had in itself the
elements of such drawbacks arising from the accidents and break-
downs mentioned, as to seriously retard the progress of the
business, and, in fact, to diminish the number of customers who
from time to time had been induced to come on their circuit.
That was where they were, and that was why the income, instead
of being what it would have been if they had started the year with
the same number of people as when the Grosvenor broke down, had
diminished. But if the income had decreased the expenses had
not. The fixed charges were really not in the least affected by the
number of lamps they were lighting. This really accounted for
the exceedingly unpleasant result of the year's working. There
was, however, one item which could not be carried to the profit
and loss account, and that was the value of the experience gained
during the year. The}' were very anxious that the proprietors of
that undertaking should know as much about it as the Board did
themselves. In the lost two preceding reports, therefore, they
were very careful to have in black and white from the engineer of
the Com^mny (Mr, Ferranti) his views in unmistakable uinguage
as to tlie position of that exi.>eriment : and the most that could be
said about Mr. Ferranti's views was that they were somewhat too
sanguine. But it looked very much as if the ex{>erience of these
breakdowns had led them to believe that ihey were only
too sanguine, and not wrong in principle. Because it might
be interesting to know that these various accidents to the
dynamos, ancT interruptions of the mains, and the transformers
beginning in a very considerable ratio in the early months, dimi-
nished in the latter months of the year to zero. It came to this :
that the theory being right, the application or adjustment of the
parts being novel, and at the same time a very delicate operation,
had to be made not in a drawing or on pa{>er, or as an abstract
proposition, but hud to be felt out in practice. When London
w{is blessed with a fog of not only ereat density but prolonged
endurance for four or five days ancT nights, their machinery at
Deptford ran in the most perfect manner. There was no hitch or
halt during all thost. hours. It was maintaine<l at full pressure
during that time and ran to [>erfection. However, to sum up, they
of)ened the year with an amount of experience as to the proba-
bilities of this system which represented a very large value. Of
course he need hardly say that tne Board -room of that Company
during those many months had not been altogether a bed of roses.
He dared to say it would be as Siitisfact-ory fur them to hear as it
was for him to tell them after the difficulties they had |)a8sed
through and theexf^erience they had had (he spoke in the presence
of most com[)etent judges), that they thought it was possible to
develof) that system of high tension to an extent and at a cost which,
notwithstanding the bad start and the losses resulting from entering
u{>on novel experiments, would eventually land the Coin{)any in a
satisfactory |josition. He did not know whether they would like
him to go into much more detail. The rep>ort of the engineer was
given at some length, and that was probably more worthy of their
careful study than any remarks he had to make, or anything in
the body of the report. For the sake of being in order, however,
he would go through the paragraphs in the reix)rt. With reference
to the remark therein that the extension of electric lighting had
been less rapid than was antici(>ated — but the light was undoubtedly
growing in public favour — he said that in their case ho was not sur-
prised at this, for the reason that they had had these breakdowns
and interruptions. Their customers left them and they lost their -
character, and to some extent their market. This was what was on
the cards for people who left beaten [jaths and followed new ones.
They need not be very much distressed if they made a loss for
the first year or two, because he remembered a company connected
with electric supply which for several years showed year by year
a heavy loss on the working. But the progress of that company
had been such that all the loss had since been wiped out of profits,
and for many years large dividends hod been paid. He did not
want to be a prophet, but it was ciuite on the cards that this
might be the ca>e with the lx)ndon Electric Supply Cor{x>ration.
He was afraid sharehohlers would never get away from
this, that the experiment would sooner or later have cost them a
good deal of money, which in their present stage of experience
might have been saved. Of course that was (^uite obvious. The
people who came after the pioneer hod a comparatively easy itMid ;
they hod the benefit of all his mistakes. They (the London
Electric) happeiie<l to be pioneers, they ran the risks, and might
have secured the prufits of a great invention. Stei)8 were being
taken by which the cost of producing the current would be
materially diminished. They liiid mode some advances in that
respect already. The expenses of that year had been reduced by
£6,(K.N), and they were susceptible of still greater diminution.
Suppose they doubled the output this ye^ir, the ex]>enses would
not be doubled, and would only be very slightly increased by tho
additional driving forcer rei|uired— coal, water, and oil. All the
fixed charges would remain exactly where they were. This was
why the outlook was rather better than might be induced from a
8ui>erficial study of the accounts, or the application of ordinary
knowledge to them. Every new subscriber now meant nearly the
whole of the subscription as additional profit. If they had had a
larger number of subscribers, they would have been £6,000 to the
go^ instead of to the bad. The Board believed they could assure
shareholders that they were more confident now than they were
at the start of the year that this thing was to be realised. As to the
accounts, he would be happy to answer any qaeetloM apjDn pointe
of detail, but there was one matter he opmIi te
concerned the future. Referrins *»
3dS
TflE ELECfRlOAL ENGINEER, APRtL 1, 1892.
would see there 111,000 ordibary shares of £5, that was £555,000,
paid up. Then £250,000 worth of preference shares had been
createa and used, and they were practically paid up, except for
some calls in arrear. Then as to borrowing powers, the Directors
might, by the articles of association, borrow upon their own dis-
cretion not exceeding £250,000. If they wanted more, they must
go to the proprietors to have their deeiis ratified. But of course
discreet directors did not avail themselves of powers of that sort
without taking proprietors into their confidence and having their
concurrence ; and when the moment came that they would have to
deal with borrowing, they would certainly take the proprietors
into their confidence. That would not be very long ; it would be at
that meeting. The capital account was very interesting, inasmuch
as it dealt with a vast number of items, and carried these forward
from year to year in order that some day or other when the local
authority took over that Comnany's undertaking they might have
data as to how the capital haa been spent. The revenue account
was also very full. How did they propose to carry on ? They had
spent all their money, and they had only partially developed the
business. Well, the present machinery, upon which they had
staked their fortunes, consisted of two ])artB : (1) that which was
now at work, and (2) that which had been constructed more or less
on the theory that it would be brought into work. They had
had to stop any further expenditure than had already been
incurred upon No. 2, because they had come to the conviction
that they had better perfect and found the business upon that
part of the machinery which was in work before they proceeded
further. That machinery, existing at that moment at Deptford,
was capable of lighting 90,000 Tamps. He said *' capable of
lighting" ; that was when those drawbacks arising from a little
want of skill and of knowledge in the adjustment of the machines
were all conquered — and they were being rapidly conquered.
They had climbed down a little from the heights, and determined
that their policy was not to move further until they had secured
the above number of lights, and shareholders would see how
different their position would be with 90,000 instead of 86,000
lights. They had not got quite enough money to carry out that
programme. They were in debt— not very largely ; £20,000 would
cover all. He was sorry to say, moreover, that the bulk of the
liability arose owing to the second part of their enterprise —
viz., che construction of two 10,000-h.p. dynamos. They had
spent a great deal of money on these, and there were certain
Claims cfue on them which they must pay. They wanted a
little working capital — besides paying ofi' the £20,000 of
indebtedness — to have enough money in hand to develop the
existing machinery, and carry it to that state of efliciency
which would enable them to light 80,(K)0 or 90.000 lights,
as the case might be. Thev had no money, and it was
vital to them to get it, but how ? With a balance-sheet like
theirs, with shares at a discount, and a good many friends out-of-
doors ready to pronounce disaster, ic was not an easy thing to
raise money. Therefore, instead of thinking of issuing deben-
tures, they had arranged, subject to the concurrence of share-
holders, to have a loan. Thei*e was one peculiarity about that
Company which he thought took it a little out of the ordinary
category. Whether the venture in which they were all engaged
was carried to a successful issue or not, the preponderating invest-
ment in that Company was the investment of the Directors and
their friends. Thoy held amongst them two-thirds of the entire
paid-up capital, and he had often heard it said that the great
guarantee of the success of a joint-stock company was that the
irectors themselves should hold largely in it. If that were so,
he knew of no joint-stock company in all his experience where
the directors held such an enormous proportion of the ordinary
capital of the company. That being so, it was a very fortunate
thing that in the {position of the Company, looking at the unwisdom
of attempting to issue debentures under present conditions, one of
their own Directors should be ready to find the £oO,0(X) which
they wanted, for a term of three years, with the option of
discharging it at their convenience within that time, at
5 per cent. He knew of very few companies which would find
a director to come forward and put himself in that position. He
thought the service was a twofold one. It not only relieved the
Comfiany of the possibility of very bad financial arrangements, but
showed the confidence of the Director in his own property, because
he happened to be the largest shareholder in the Company. He
woula not mention the name of that Director, because his modesty
might be disturbed ; but he thought the f)osition of that Director
and his readiness to find money for the C-ompany was an indication
at all events of a confidence in it which he hoped would be
catching and keep the proprietors in good spirits. One thing he
must tell them. They had better appreciate it, because in n matter
of that sort even remote possibilities must be considered. That
Director would not lend his money except on a mortgage, and
that mortgage would be drawn by his legal advisers, and would
provide remedies in the event of certain things. That loan was
for three years, and if at the end of the three years the Company
could not meet it, there would be a right of foreclosure. But this
attached to every mortgage and to debentures themselves. He
would not have thought it necessary to allude to this matter, but
for the conscientious scruplcH of the Director, who thought it
ought to bo understood that, although he came forward in
that liberal and handsome manner to help the Company then,
he was not therefore to be precluded from the ordinary remedies
of a creditor at the end of the term if the accounts were not paid.
To sum it all up, if they could not pull this Company out of its
troubles long before then (three years) they would have to consider
what was to be done with it. But, |humanly speaking, with the
experience they had had, and with most of the difiiculties over-
come, there seemed little reason to doubt that long before throe
years had expired they would be able to issue debentures, or maka
other financial arrangements of such a character as would enable
them to discharge that loan without any of the terrors which he
had indicated happening. That being all he proposed to say,
unless in answer to questions, he begged to move the adoption and
approval of the report and accounts.
This was seconded by Lord Wantage.
Mr. Praed asked questions as to their liabilities, how many
lights were being supplied at that time, and at what pressure the
current was being transmitted to London ? He hoped the Board
were satisfied that the present dynamos would light 90,000 lamps,
and that the money expended on the 10,000-h.p. dynamos had not
been thrown away, and that they would come in usefuL
The Chairman said that on the 22nd March they had 423 cus-
tomers with 36,463 Umps lighted, and they had 26 customers
waiting for 3,143 lamps, so that practically they had secured
40.000 lights. They were transmitting at 10,000 volts, and this
transmission had caused them some trouble and expense in the
early part of the year. But the experience gained had removed
from their minds what at one time rather disturbed them — vie., the
fear whether that voltfiigecould be maintained. As to the 10,000-h.p.
dynamos, a large expenditure had been incurred on them, but
was now suspended until the completion and perfection of
the other business (getting 90,000 lights). Whether or not they
would conclude in the future to carry on that experiment (toe
big dynamos), for it was a great experiment, he did not
know. Of course, ha\'ing spent so large a sum, having built mi
enormous place for the purpose of developing those dynamos, it
would be, not a calamity, perhaps, but a serious drawback to the
Company if that outlay were in vain. The prevailing opinion of
electricians was, however, that smidl units were more convenient
and economical than large ones. They sprung from 626-h.p.
dynamos to 1,250 h.p., and had had some trouble in getting the
latter to go at 10,000 volts, but they thought they had overcome
the difficulties. Assuming a sufficient demand for light, Uiese
were highly economical anu very advanteigeous, but they had some
drawbacks. For instance, unless they were working at full load,
it was like using a Nasmyth hammer to crack a nut, or emploving
eight horses to pull a gig. Instead of developing big maohmes,
they might find the multiplication of small unite the better plan.
At present the money laid out in the 10,000-h.p. dynamos was
lying derelict. As to the questions about indebtedness, he woold
be glad if Mr. Praed would call at the office when the matter
could be explained. To this Mr. Praed assented.
Mr. Adams asked as to the loan of £50,000, was the security
to be a mortgage on the whole of their property, as if their assets
were worth anything like the proper valuation, the security
seemed very good ?
The Chairman : Naturally a mortgage was on the whole of the
property. There were two aspects of the question. There was
the property as it stood in the capital account of the Company,
and there was its realisable value, supposing the Company was to
break down. If the earning capacity of tne Company had not
developed at the end of three years to such an extent as would
justify someone in lending £50,000 or the issue of debentures to
that extent, it must be in a parlous state. He bought the
other day in London for £20,000 a property which cost £140,000,
that was for a company with which he was connected. The
company owning the property had broken down, but he did not
think theirs was going to break down. Naturally, however, a
mortgagee would take everything he could get into his net.
Mr. Hill asked if the Board were sure this £50,000 was all the
money that was necessary to try that pioneer experiment to the
bitter end, because it must be plain that if they borrowed that
money on a mortgage of their entire property they would be
unable to borrow any more ?
The Chairman : The Board had taken infinite pains to see what
moneys would be required to perfect the present establishment up
to an output of from 85,000 to 90,000 lights, and they were
satisfied that the amount named would be enough. They did not
anticipate any calamity arising to disappoint that expectation, but
they would know probably within that year whether they could or
could not materially increase the sale output.
Mr. Kisch thought the Board must allow that shareholders had
shown exemplary confidence in the Board, as well as patienoe,
after all they had gone through. They had met year after year to
hear reports which on their face were by no means satisfactory,
and had hopeful and encouraging statements from the Chairman.
Theymet now, after four or five years of existence, withareport which
the Chairman had practically admitted was less hopeful than ever.
The Chairman was good enough to say that the only encouragement
he could give was that if certain things had been different from what
they were the results would have oeen different. The whole of
the £250.000 paid to the late company (the Grosvenor) appeared
practically to have been paid for nothing. They had to face the
fact that the whole of their property might be swept away to
satisfy a comparatively small sum like £50,000. Mr. Kisch then
turned to the accounts, and compared the revenue for the last year
with that for the year before, to the detriment of the former. He
also adversely criticised the expenditure. They had been told all
along that their present plant was intended to supply up to
90,000 lights, and certainly, until he came into the room, he
had not the least idea that any further capital would be
asked for, except to supply a number in excess of this. He
then proceeded to question the holding of the Directors who
signed the articles of association ; suggested that the aooountant
was interested in a firm from which Uie Company purchased a
large amount of goods? The Company was over-offioered,
ana this showed it. He wanted to know whether all orders for
electrical stores and appliances passed, as they ought, through the
TSE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, At»RtL 1, 1892.
n$
engineer-in-chief ? He believed that they did not, and that the
S>wer for such purchases was vested chiefly in the accountant,
e would like to know how the appeal against an injunction which
was then before the Courts was likely to affect them if the injunc-
tion was sustained ?
The Claalniuui, with some indignation, asked why Mr. Kisch
had not put his accusation in form and supported it by evidence ?
Why did he lend his ears to rumours of tnat foul kind ? For his
part he did not believe a word of it. As to his suggestion that
the purchase of stores was left to take its chance, he could say
something definite. On the contrary, no stores were purchased in
that Company that were not remitted to a special meeting of the
Directors in committee, and as far as possible everything was got
on tender from the best firms, and no officer in the Company had
the slightest voice in those tenders. As to his general suggestions,
what alternative had he got ? He agreed that the last year had
been disastrous, and he (the speaker) supposed Mr. Kisch
knew the reasons why the thing had broken doMm. But
misfortunes were only redeemed by knowledge and courage to
overcome them. If the Board looked on the future of the Com-
pany as so hopeless as Mr. Kisch seemed to think, they would
come to the shareholders and tell them so, and advise them to
stop it at once, to wind up and get rid of it. But they believed
it could be redeemed, but only by people who had solid informa^
tion and a clear conception of remedies for patent faults, not by
mere talk. He and his colleagues would be delighted to meet any
honourable proprietor at the office by appointment to discuss
remedies, which they believed were sticking to the Company, and
perfecting the machinery up to 90,000 lights. If tnat were
achieved, as they believed it could, they were all satisfied that the
position of that Company would be greatly altered . Of course if share-
nolders were going to tnrow up the sponge that was their business,
but it was not the temper of the Board, and they were not going
to recommend them to do so Mr. Kisch had blamed him for
being sanguine. Why ! the world was not carried on by wet
blankets. Had he any suggisstion to make ? Would he kindly say
how during the current year that balance-sheet could be turned
from a loss into a profit ? If he would satisfy them that such a
thing was possible he (the Chairman) coula only say that the
Board would embrace him most willingly and cordially. But he
gathered nothing from Mr. Kisch's speech.
Mr. Klaeli said he was going to move, as an amendment, that a
email committee of shareholders should be appointed to confer
with the Board, with a view to reducing the expenditure, and to
report as to the possibility of bringing the Company into a solvent
and paying condition. (Several shareholders expressed their
' dissent from this proposition.)
The ChalrmaB did not want to send Mr. Kisch away dissatisfied,
and proceeded to argue from the figures representing customers
and lights before the Grosvenor fire took place and after, that if
the fire had noD occurred, and if their business had progressed in
the same ratio as it was progressing, instead of having 36,000
lights they would have had 60 000. What they had got to do was
to show that their system could be run, and then more customers
and lights would follow as surely as night followed day. He did
not know whether a committee found favour with shareholders ?
(Criesof "No, no!")
A Shareholder remarked that they had conducted this experi-
ment by means of an eminent engineer— Mr. Ferranti. Had they
abandoned him. or had they still access to him for advice ?
The Chainttan : Since an honourable proprietor put the ques-
tion he was bound to answer it. He had doped the name of Mr.
Ferranti would not have been brought up. Mr. Ferranti had an
agreement with the Company which expired. He was the engineer,
the contractor, and also the inventor and patentee of the Company.
When that agreement came to an end by effluxion of time, the
Board did not think it desirable to continue Mr. Ferranti in these
positions,- which were found to be conflicting to the interests of the
Company, as the Directors thought. Thereiore, being quite satis-
fied that Mr. Ferranti was not indispensable, they let the agree-
ment take its course. It did not expire, however, without their
taking measures to carry on their business, and he dared say that
if they wanted Mr. Ferranti 's advice they could get it. But they
did not think it desirable to retain him at a high remuneration
when the work of construction, for which he had been retained, had
come to an end.
A Shareholder asked as to the injunction ?
The Chairman said that whether the appeal was or was not
dismissed, it would not be material to the Company.
Another Shareholder said he would have the courage to second
the amendment of Mr. Kisch. He was satisfied that if ever confi-
dence was to be restored in the management of that Company, it
oould only be done by an independent enquiry such as was pro-
posed. Me bad listened with attention to the Chairman's state-
ment, and a very able one it was ; but running through the whole
of that statement were remarks that various accidents had
happened, and many misfortunes had befallen the Company.
He did not hear, however, who was responsible for these,
which had diminished the value of the Company to one-
fifth of what it was before. Surely the Directors were to some
extent responsible for these disasters. They were going to ask
shareholders to mortgage the whole property, representing
nominally half-a-million, Tor £50,000. He thought they should
know whether there was any chance of carrying on the Company
at a profit if the £50,000 was obtained. He wanted to know why
they were to suppose that the Directors would profit by the
experience gainea in the future more than in the past, for they
had been trying these experiments for four years ?
Sir Thomas Baieley said it seemed to him that if the Directors
were not capable of deciding the point, the works had better be
closed at once. He himself had been opposed to high-voltage
transmission, but the more he saw of it the better he liked it. He
would like to call attention to the management expenses. No
one could look at the accounts without being struck by the fact
that the balance which signified loss was almost covered by
management expenses. When they had £3,000 for salaries of
secretary, engineers, accountant, etc., with general establishment
charges besides, and then Directors' remuneration, it struck him
as a large amount. Were they in that respect really upon the
most economical footing ? The Board knew better than he did,
but ho thought the matter deserved their careful enquiry. The
Board was not one to be overhauled in the ordinary manner. It
was composed of men of high position and scientific attainments.
He thought the action of the Directors in giving £250.000 for the
Grosvenor was a little precipitate. However, he would not suggest
a course to them, but he would relate an incident. Many years
ago he was associated with an industrial company in low water,
which had since become a sound dividend-pay mg concern. The
Directors, during the low- water period, did not relinquish their
fees, but agreed to postpone them till the Company prospered.
The Chairman asked if it was the pleasure of shareholders that
a committee should be appointed to confer with the Directors, and
put Mr. Kisch's amenament, for which only the mover and
seconder voted. It was therefore lost, and the Chairman expressed
the opinion that the meeting had come to a sound conclusion. He
was glad to have had the views of the last speaker (Sir Thomas
Bazeley), as he was moist competent to judge of business of that
kind. He was happy to hear that he did not despair of the
ultimate success of high voltage. Who was to be the scape-
goat for the present state of things he did not know. He
himself had nothing to do with the policy of high tension.
He came in rather to administer. The Board did naturally
rely upon the scientists, who seemed to have been clever
enough to produce arguments to satisfy some very hard-headed
men of business, and get them to adopt and carry out their
ideas. He supposed one of their greatest misfortunes had been
that Mr. Ferranti's ideas, however clever, however sound, had not
been realised quite as rapidly or to the extent that he thought they
would be. The Directors certainly were responsible to the extent
of having to lean in such matters upon the opinion of scientiete
to make a selection and to do the best with the thing they under-
took. That about measured their responsibility. ELe thought
they must go on with the Company and make the best of it. As
to the remarks of Sir Thomas Bazeley on the establishment
charges, he admitted that in proportion to the results they were
very large. On the other hand, in that business there was a large
amount of work which did not appear on the surface, and from
which there was no result for a long time. They might, however,
rely on the matter having the full consideration of the Board, who
were really most sincerely desirous of doing all that ought to be
done in the interests of shareholders. Would Sir Thomas Bazeley
like to come on the Board ? (Sir Thomas said that he lived too far
away,) because no doubt they would have a vacancy, and it was
good to have a shareholder to deal with the problem of pulling
that scientific experiment back into success. Committees were no
good, though he had known them destroy some properties.
Sir Thomas Baseley said he had had the pleasure of visiting
the Company's works on the previous day, and was very much
pleased with all he saw. He thought that if they could manage
without breakdowns they ought to do so. He declined a director-
ship, however.
The Chairman : They had had a very pleasant discussion, and
really the best thing they could do was to keep in good spirits and
be friendly with each other. He would put the resolution that
the report and accounts be adopted. This was carried nem, dis.
He then announced that he was defunct, and vacated the chair
in favour of Lord Wantage, who proceeded to propose the re-
election of Mr. James S. Forbes and the Hon. Reginald Brougham
as directors.
This was seconded by Mr. Adams, and carried unanimously.
Mr. Forhes thanked the meeting, and said that when he came
into a thing of that sort he shar^ the blame with the' utmost
equanimity. Really, if he were not so deeply interested in it, if
it was not so fascinatingly difficult, he would be glad to get out
of it.
Mr. Brongham also returned thanks, remarking that he would
be sorry to run away now that they were in a tight place.
Mr. Forhes, having resumed the chair, said that as to the loan
he would like to ascertain, not by express resolution (there were
other ways of making feeling known in a room), whether share-
holders concurred in the arrangement he liad mentioned. Was
there anybody who dissented strongly to the proposed mortgage ?
In reply to suggestions and questions, he said that the mortp^ge
must be on the whole property ; that it was not desirable to issue
debentures now, but tnat when the position of the Company had
improved so far as to justify their issue on reasonable terms, it
could be done, and the present loan could be included in the
amount asked for. The £30,000 of working capital, over and
above the £20,000 to pay off debts, which would be provided by
the loan, would last until about the middle of next year.
A Shareholder pointed out that if debentures were issued now
there was not the slightest chance of anyone taking them up, and
he therefore thought they ought to be very grateful to the Director
for the loan and accept the oner.
The Chairman : With that word of encouragement the Directors
would take the responsibility of determining the matter, which
they believed was greatly in the interest of the Company.
The re-election of the auditors, Messrs. Kemp, Ford, and Co.,
was unanimously agreed to ; and the Chairman promised, at the
request of a shareholder, that in future reporte the usual praotioe
334 THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 1, 189^.
of printing the names of the Directors and officers for the time
being should be followed.
The proceedings cl(Msed with a vote of thanks to the Chairman,
who remarked that it was a great encouragement to have those
handsome things said of one. It was more valuable than the
money so kindly voted by shareholders.
INTERNATIONAL ELECTRIC SUBWAY COMPANY.
The statutory meeting of this Company was held at 12, King
William-street, E.C., on Thursday, 24th inst., Mr. John L. Martin
in the chair.
The dudrmaii said that under the advice of their solicitors they
had completed the purchase of all the patents for the United
Kingdom and Europe of the Johnstone system of underground
electrical conduits. This system was extensively used m the
United States, several hundred miles of the conduits being laid in
New York, Chicago, and Philadelphia, and large contracts were,
they understood, now being carried out in other of the principal
cities of America. The system had been so extensively adopted in
America because of its economy and permanency, that he did not
think it was an exaggeration to say that it was the standard
system of electrical conduits in use in America to-day. Their energetic
Managing Director had secured the attendance at their offices of
many engineers interested in electrical subway conduits from
various parts of England, and had explained the system to them,
with the result that they believed they were on the eve of
obtaining large and substantial orders in various of the principal
towns in England, and even within the precincts of London itself,
and also in Paris. They had placed a full-sized model of their
system in the Crystal Palace, where they understood it was
exciting considerable interest It should be borne in mind that
their Company was really a pioneer syndicate, with a capital of
only £25,000. and as their system became more widely known, the
Directors believed they would be able to dispose of their rights on
very favourable terms to the various European countries.
At an extraordinary meeting subseciuently held, the Directors'
remuneration was fixed at £250 per annum.
N0TTIN6 HILL ELECTRIC LIGHT COMPANY.
The Directors' repK>rt to December 31, 1891, states that the
expenditure on capital account amounts to £67.845. The Company
commenced to supply current to consumers at the end of May,
1891 ; the revenue account, therefore, for a period of only seven
months shows a debit balance of £617. 5s. 7d. The revenue
account begins with a period of four months, during which most
of the consumers were out of town, and but few houses were con-
nected. The amount of electricity sold during the quarter ending
December 31 was about four times as much as that of the previous
quarter. The Company has constructed and laid 5^ miles of
culverts and pipes, into which have been placed 66 tons of
copper strips and cable, the whole costing £26,794 6s. 8d.,
as shown in the capital account. These mains run past
445 houses, which can be supplied practically without further
delay, and opposite to 331 aaditional houses, which can be
supplied by simply crossing the roads. Of the 776 houses
mentioned above only 77 were supplied by December 31, the
number of lights installed being eiiuivalent to 6,056 8-c.p. lamps.
The Company has orders in hand tor a further 560 8-c.p. lamps,
and is now in negotiation for many more in connection with the
existing mains. It may, therefore, fairly be reckoned that the
increase during the current year will he very considerable. In
the case of the neighbouring Kensington and Knightsbridge
Company, the increase last year was 12,873 8-c.p. lamps, or 50 per
cent, over the total of the previous year. The Directors have con-
tracted for an extension of the mains southward into the Phillimore
district, where a considerable number of householders have promised
to take current, 14 houses having been already wired in anticipa-
tion. The cost of this extension will be paid for either by the
issue of preference shares at par to the contractors, or by instal-
ments wnich have been arranged for on terms convenient to the
Company. A site for a battery station has also been secured in
the Adaison-road or S.W. district. The Directors propose to
issue the remainder of the ordinary share capital in the form of
6 per cent, ordinary preference shares. The object of this issue is
to enable the Company to extend its mains to further remunerative
portions of its area, and it is the intention of the Directors to give
the present shareholders the first opportunity of taking their pro-
portion of these shares.
The fifth ordinary general meeting was held at Winchester
House yesterday (Thursday), the chairman, Mr. Wm. Crookes,
F.R.S., presiding.
The report and accountn wore approved and adopted on the
motion of the ChalrmaB, seconded by Mr. Franklin.
COMPANIES' REPORTS.
HOUSE-TO-HOUSE ELECTRIC LIGHT SUPPLY COMPANY.
Directors : Henry Ramio Beeton (chairman), Joaquin de
Galindez, Robert Arthur (rermaine. Robert Hammond (managing
director), William Francis Leese, William Page. Secretary :
H. St. John Winkworth.
Third annual report of the Directors, with balance-sheet, for the
vear ending December 31, 1891, to be presented to the ehare-
nolders at the ordinary general meeting to be held at the central
station, Richmond-road, Kensington, on Tuesday next at 3 p.m.
The revenue account shows a credit balance of £2.250. Qs. Id.;
which, with the balance of £385. 15s. 8d., brought forward from
the previous year, making a total of £2,636. 48. fi^., is sufficient to
cover
Interest on £30,000 debentures £1,706 0 0
10 per cent, to be written ofif preliminary expenses... 542 9 9
Proposed dividend of 7 per cent, on £1,710 preference
shares 113 9 7
Leaving a balance to be carried forward of 274 5 5
£2,636 4 9
During the past year the business of the Company has steadily
increased, tne number of 35- watt lamps attached to the Company's
circits on the let January being 13,665, and on the 31st December
19,388. At the beginning of the year there were 248 housee con-
nected, and at the end ofthe year 373. During the year a special
unit of plant has been laid down, by means of which it is not only
possible to supply a greater number of lamps, but the lighter load
during the period of minimum consumption is more economically
dealt with, important extensions of the Company's mains have ali>o
been carried out. Since the end of the year the Directors have
allotted £12,290 of 7 per cent, preference shares, bringing the total
preference capital issued up to £14,000, out of the proceeds of
which it is proposed to lay down further plant to enable the
Company to cope with its increasing business, and, as the new
business will probably entail but little addition to the standing
charges, it may be confidently anticipated that the profits for the
current year will show a substantial improvement on thoee of
1891. The following is a comparative statement for the past two
years :
Working expenses. Revenue.
1890. 1891. 1890. 1891.
£ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ 8. d.
1,9210 7 3,118 2 9 Jan. 1 to June 30 1,373 6 7 3,838 0 6
2,70.-; 5 10 2,889 12 5 July 1 to Dec. 31 ^3,637 2 7 4,490 3 5
4,624 6 5 6,007 15 2 ♦Very foggy Dec. 5,010 9 2 8,328 3 11
An agreement, which, is hoped, will in future, provide a satis-
factory addition to the profits earned at the West Bronopton
station, has been entered into with the Leeds and London JSlec-
trical Engineering Company, Limited, by which agreement that
Company will carry on the business built up by the Company for
the construction of central stations. The Directors have drawn
no fees during the past year, but £200 has been paid to Mr. William
Page for special services. The Directors congratulate the share-
holders upon the promising position of the Company's business.
Thanks are due to the Manager and staff who have so materially
aided in placing the working of the enterprise on a satisfactory
basis. During the past year Mr. W. F. Leese and Mr. Joacjuin de
Galindez have been elected directors, and their election is now
brought forward for confirmation by the shareholders. Mr. H. R.
Beeton and Mr. Robert Hammond retire by rotation, and offer
themselves for re-election. At the meeting the shareholders will
have to elect auditors for the ensuing year, and Messrs. Theobald
Bros, and Miall, being eligible, offer themselves for re-election.
(/.\riTAL Account.
The statement of share capital appropriated for the purposes of
the House-to-House Electric Light Supply Order, 1889, shows that
100 founders' shares of £5 have been issued and paid up ; 5,322
ordinary shares of £5 each out of 13,900 have been issued, and are
fully paid ; and 342 preference shares out of 6,000 of the same
value, have been issued and are fully paid up, making the total
share capital paid up £28,820, and the total remaining unissued
£71,180, out of the £100,000 authorised. The loan capital
authorised is £30,000, all of which has been obtained by the iseue
of 6 per cent, debentures, convertible into ordinary shares. The
total capital received to December, 1891, was therefore £58,820.
Dr. Total Exi>enditure to December 31, 1891. £ s. d.
Lands, including law charges incidental to acqui-
sition .56 10 6
Buildings, £8,272. 178. 5d. (lees transfer to mains,
£582.28 Id.) 7,862 0 4
Machinery 18,721 5 1
Mains, including cost of laying the mains, £11,786
28. 9d. (add transfer from buildings, £5S2. 2s. Id.) 16,151 5 10
Transformers, motors, etc 3,548 19 1
Meters 2,272 10 11
Electrical instruments, tools, etc 628 7 4
Purchase of right of user of patents or patent rights
and covenants with Managing Director 7,500 0 0
Cost of license, provisional order, etc 1 ,537 7 7
Office furniture 97 14 10
Total expenditure £58,376 1 6
Balance of capital account 443 18 6
£58,820 0 0
Cr. TotalReceipts to December 31, 1891. £ b. d.
Ordinary shares of £5 each 26,610 0 0
Founders' shares of £5 each 500 0 0
Preference shares of £5 each 1,710 0 0
Debentures 30,000 0 0
£58.820 0 0
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 1, 1892.
330
Dr. Gekkral Balakce-sheet.
Coital— 8,322 ordinary shares of £5 £41,610 0 0
100 founders' shares of £5 each .... 500 0 0
342 preference shares of £5 each 1,710 0 0
s. d.
f
43,820 0 0
Temporary loan (since repaid) 3,000 0 0
300 debentures of £100 each 30,000 0 0
Sundry creditors on open accounts 7,744 15 1
Bills payable 3,538 2 5
Net revenue account— balance at credit thereof 387 15 0
£88,490 12 6
Or. £ s. d. £ s. d.
Capital account : Amount expended for works as
per account above 58,376 1 6
Construction business development account :
As per last balance-sheet 14,831 17 1
Accounts for law and parliamentary
charges, etc., since rendered 2,514 2 6
17,345 19 7
Preliminary expenses account as per
last balance<sheet, £3,759. 5e. lid.,
and transfer of foundation of busi-
ness account, £1,709. 18s. 8d 5,469 4 7
Less transferof proportion to founder,
£44. 66. 6d., and 10 per cent, of
balance carried to net revenue
account, £542. 9s. 9d 586 16 3
4,882 8 4
Debenture issue expenses 153 13 2
Preference share issue expenses 76 17 10
Suspense renewals account 400 0 0
Stores on hand at December 31, 1890 :
Coal 168 15 0
Oils, waste, etc 124 2 0
General 11 11 7
304 8 7
Sundry debtors for electricity supplied to December
31. 1890 3,493 6 2
Otherdebtors 2,313 6 1
Cash at bankers :
Messrs. Glyn. MUls, and Co 1.002 13 3
Alliance Bank (Earl's Court Branch) 103 17 5
Cash in hand .38 0 7
1,144 11 3
Dr.
Revknte Acc^oi'nt. £ s. d.
£8S.490
£
12 6
H. d.
A. — To (feneration of Electricity.
Coals* or other fuel (including dues,
carriage, unloading, storing and all
expenses of placing the same on
the works), oil, waste, water and
engine-room stores £3,053. ISs. 7d.
Less amount charged to ''sundry
debtors " for expenditure on experi-
ments, running station for deputa-
tions and other considerations,
£458. Is. 9d 2,595 16 10
Salaries of engineers, su()erintendents,
and officers, and wages and gratui-
ties at generating station 1,711 8 5
Repairs and maintenance, as follows :
Buildings, engines, boilers, dyna-
mos, exciters, transformers, motors,
etc., other machinery, instruments,
and tooln, £827. la. 2d., less ''sus-
pense renewals account " transfer of
expenditure on exceptional renewals,
£400 427
(^artage of ashes 93
7
2
0
B. — To Distribution of Electricity.
Repairs and maintenance of mains of all clashes . .
C— To Rents, Rates, and Taxes.
Rents |)oyable 193 15 0
Ratesand taxes '200 18 3
4,8*27 14 5
0 7
Directors' remuneration (special)
Stationery and printing
Genera] establishment charges
Auditors of (^om()any
Collector's salary
I). — To Management Ex()en8es.
123
394 13 3
200 0
38 3
232 18
21 0
101 0 0
0
5
5
0
Law expenses
Insurances.
E. — To Law and Parliamentary Charges.
F.— To Special Charges.
593
1
10
1.
24
5
7
44 19
6
Generation and distribution of electricity expenses 6,007 15 2
Sundries.
Subscription Electrical Association ... 60 0 0
Interest and discount account 9 19 8
69 19 8
Balance carried to net revenue account 2,250 9 1
^ Average cost of coal £1. Is. 2d. per ton. £8,328 3 U
Cr. £ 8. d, £ 8. d.
Sale of electricity per meter at 8d. per B. T. U. (less
discounts 7,674 14 6
Rental of meters and other apparatus on consumers'
premises 514 15 2
Transfer fees 0 12 6
Students' instruction account 138 1 9
138 14 3
£8,328 3 11
Dr. Net Revenue Account. £. s. d.
Interest on debentures paid and accrued to date ... 1,706 0 0
Amount written off preliminary expenses account... 542 9 9
Balance carried to general balance-sheet 387 15 0
£2.636 4 9
Cr. £ s. d.
Balance brought from revenue account 2,250 9 1
Balance from last account 385 15 8
£2,636 4 9
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
Xleotrio Ltghttng and General Development Byadleata,
Limited.— Registered by C. W. and H. B. Taylor, 31, Crutched-
friars, E.C., with a capital of £700 in £10 shares. The objects for
which this Company is established are sufficiently indicated by the
title. There shall not be less than three Directors. The first are
E. J. Rhodes and G. Morrison. Remuneration, 2 per cent, on the
net profits of the Company.
BUSINESS NOTES.
Western and Brasilian Telegraph Company.— The receipts
for last week, after deducting 17 per cent, payable to the Lonaon
Platino-Brazilian Company, were £3, 106.
City and Sontb London Railway. — The receipts for the week
ending 27th March were £818, against £702 for the corresponding
period of last year, showing an increase of £116. The receipts for
last week show a decrease of £79 as compared with those lor the
week ending March 20.
Anglo-Ameriean Telegraph Company.— The Directors have
declared an interim dividend for the quarter ending March 31 of
12s. 6d. per cent, on the ordinary and 25s. per cent, on the pre-
ferred stock, less income tax, payable on April 30 to the stock-
holders registered on the books of the Company on March 31, 1892.
Spanish National Submarine Telegraph Company. — In
accordance with a resolution passed at a meeting of the share-
holders held on Tuesday last, a balance dividend for 1891 of 1^ per
cent., of 3s. a share, is now payable. Holders of share warrants
(to bearer) claiming this dividend must leave them at the Com-
pany's office, 106, Cannon -street, EC, where the dividend will be
payable ; three clear days for examination.
Change of Firm. — Messrs. W. R. Wynne and A. S. Barnard
inform us that since the dissolution of the firm of Barnett, Wynne,
and Barnard, they have commenced business at 72, Grey-street,
street, Newcastle-on-Tyne, as electrical engineers, under the
style of Wynne and Barnard. Having had entire charge of the
electrical department of the late firm's business, they refer to
the work carried out by them in the past as a guarantee of ability.
Their specialities are electric light installations for ships, collieries,
private houses, etc., and the transmission of power by electricity
for mining or other purposes. They also act as consulting elec-
trical engmeers, and test and report upon installations.
Henley's Telegraph Works. — At the thirteenth general meeting
of W. T. Henley's Telegraph Works Company, held at the Cannon-
street Hotel, on Thureday, 24th inst., the adoption of the report
and accounts for the 12 months ended December 31, 1891, was
moved by Mr. Sydney Gedge, MP., seconded by Mr. Richard J.
Jenkins, C.E., and carri^ unanimously. After writing off
£6,757. 10s. from ship gear and patents, and providing £10,^)0 in
reduction of " B " deoentures, dividends at the rate of 7 per cent,
per annum on the preference shares and 5 percent., free of income
tax. on the ordinary shares were declared, and a balance of
£11,731. Os. 3d. carried forward to current year's account.
Limited Liability.— It is stated that the firm of Hick, Har-
greaves, and Co., Soho Iron Works and Phoenix Boiler Works,
Bolton, who were established in 1832, have, for private family
reasons, availed themselves of the Companies Act, and will there-
fore henceforth be known as Hick, Hargreaves, and Co., Limited.
This alteration will not make any difference in the management,
and the business will be conducted on precisely the same lines as
under the old firm. — The firm of Merry weather and Sons, the well-
known makers of fire-extinguishing appliances, and who have also
taken up Gordon's underground conduit tramway system, have
adopted a similar course. None of the capital has been offered to
the public, however.
Leeds Lighting. —Subscriptions were invited this week (the
lists closed on Thursday) for 10,000 ordinary shares of £5 each in
the Yorkshire House-to-House Electricity Company, Limited.
The capital of the Company is 20,000 ordinary shares of this value
and 100 founders' shares, making a total capital of £100,000. Fifty
founders' shares were offered at par to the first 50 sabsoribers A
336
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 1, 1892.
£500 worth of ordinary sharee. The Directors of the Company
are : Grosvenor Talbot, Southfield, Burley, Leeds (chairman) ;
George Henry Crowther, civil engineer, Haddersfield ; Robert
William Eddison (John Fowler and Co., Leeds, Limited), engineer,
Leeds; Robert Hudson, engineer, Gildersome Foundry, near
Leeds; Samuel Ingham (IlUngworth, Ingham, and Co.), timber
merchant, Leeds ; Arthur Greenhow Lupton (Wm. Lupton and
Co.), cloth manufacturer, Leeds ; John Thomas Pearson, Melmerby
Hall, Thirsk. The Company holds a provisional order, giving it
the right of supplying electricity throughout the whole of the
borough of Leeds, ana was formed unoer the auspices of the
House- to-House Electric Supply 0>mpany, which has borne all the
expenses, including those attending the registration and obtaining
the provisional order. The maximum price authorised to be
chained is 8d. per unit. The Directors have secured the services
of Messrs. Hammond and (^. as electrical engineers for the con-
struction of the works. The registered office of the 0)mpany is
32, Park-row, Leeds, and Mr. \V. T. Green is the secretary.
Sliellteld Telephone Kzchange and Xleetrio Light Company.
A special meeting of the shareholders of this Company was held
on Wednesday at the Cutlers* Hall, Sheffield, Alderman George
Franklin presiding. The object of the meeting was to adopt and
ooniirm a provisional agreement for the sale to the National Tele-
phone Company of the telephone exchange and telephone business
hitherto carried on by the Sheffield Company. The meeting having
been informed of the proposed terms of purchase, unanimously
approved of the arrangement. The local company will now be at
liberty to carry on its general electrical business, together with the
supply of the electric bght, which it has already undertaken and
for which there is an increasing demand, and in connection
with which a provisional order is now before Parliament, giving
the (^mpany mcreased powers. The terms of purchase by the
National Company are such that the shareholders in the Sheffield
Company will practically receive a return of the amount expended
upon their telephone enterprise. It may be mentioned tnat the
nominal capital of the local company is £1(X),(X)0, with £43,(XX)
paid up. The National Con^pany take over the new telephone
buildings at the bottom of Commercial-street, and a portion of
the site, the Sheffield 0)mpany leasing the remainder of the land
for electric light purposes. We understand that the National
Company have accepted a stipulation that the rates in Sheffield
for telephonic communication shall not be unduly increased — in
other words, that the price shall not exceed £10 for the first mile,
and proportionately for greater distances. Mr. William Johnson,
secretary and engineer of the Sheffield 0)mpany, has been retained
by the National 0)mpany as consulting engineer. The whole of
the telephone staff is taken over on the terms now in existence.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1892.
5511.
5515.
5526.
5528.
5546.
5579.
5618.
6634.
5645.
5652.
6654.
5655.
5712.
March 21.
Mmuis fdr arranging antomatio ilmnt drouits for eleo-
trieal purposes. William Snowdon Hedley, 53, Norfolk-
square, Brighton.
Improved regulating devioo for tbe carbons of eleotrio
are lamps. Josef Jergle, 8, Quality-court, Chancery lane,
London.
Bleotrioal apparatus for prodnoing flashes. Siemens
Brothers and Co., Limited, and Francis Gibson Baily, 28,
Southampton-buildings, London.
ImproTemonts in ooin-ftreed telephone apparatus. Harold
Sims Joseph Booth, 28, Southampton-buildings, London.
(Charles Herman, France.)
Improtrsments in or oonneoted with the eleotrolytio
dsposition of oopper or other metals. Joseph Wilson
Swan, 47, Linooln*s-inn-fields, London.
March 22.
Improvements in dsrnamo-eleotrie machines and motors,
in direot-onrrent distritmtion, in leading in wires for
ineandesoent eleotrio lamps, and in the insulation of
olsctrio transformers. James Swinburne, Broom Hall
Works, Teddington.
Improrements in altemate-onrrent transformers.
Thomas Bovden, Florence Villa, Old Dover-road, Black-
heath, London.
Improvements in electrioally-oontrolled elerators and
switoh mechanism for use therewith. James Yate
Johnson, 47, Lincoln's-inn-fields, London. (Nelson Hiss,
United States.) (Complete specification. )
Improvements in or connected with electric batteries.
Lazarus I^ke and Edward Stephen Harris, 433, Strand,
London.
Improvements in and relating to oondnits for electric
railway conductors. Henry Harris Lake, 45, Southampton-
buildings, London. (The Thomson-Houston Litemational
Electric Company , United States. ) (Complete specification. )
Improvements in dynamo-electric machines Antoine
Charles Reignier, 23, Southampton-buildings, London.
(Complete specification.)
An improved electric safoty-lamp. John Price Rees, 11,
Southampton-buildings, London.
March 23.
Improvements in and connected with diaphragms of
tdephcnes. George Lee Anders ikpd Walter Kbttgen, 55,
ChaAcery-lane,^DdoD,
5732. Improvements in or connected with eleetrlo Ught
fittings. James Aram Lea, James Francis Lea, and
Arthur Henry Lea, 4, South-street, Finsbury, London.
5735. Improvements in oonneotions for eleetrlo lighting. Hugo
Hirst, 11, Furnival-street, Holborn, London.
5748 Improvements in electric meters. George Shann, 3, Park-
row, Albert-gate, London.
5750. Switoh for electrical cirooito. Edward Hibberd Johnson, 23,
Southampton-buildings, London. (Date applied for under
Patents Act, 1883, Sec. 103. 25th August, 1891, being date
of application in United States. )
March 24.
5812. Improvements in arc eleotrio lamps. Henry Robert Low,
28, Southampton- buildings, London.
5814. Improvements in miorophonea and in apparatos ecu*
neoted therewith. Sir Charles Stewart Forbes, Bart., 21,
Finsbury-pavement, London.
March 25.
5828 An improved method of rapid tanning with the aid of
eleotrioity. Clharles Krauss Falkenstein and Konrad Krauss
Falken8toin,Hoineleigh,Lanereostroad,Tulse Hill, London.
5850. Improvements in or oonneoted with telephone flttlBis.
Ridley JamcH Urquhart, .')7, Barton arcade, Manchester.
5891. Improvements in or connected with holders or supports
for the ear tabes of telephones. William Frederick
Matthews, 27, Southampton-buildings, Chancery-lane,
London.
5899. Improvements in apparatus for adjusting and regulating
the oarhons of eleotrio arc lamps. Emile Francois Marie
l^evenbruck, 35, Southampton-buildings, London
March 26.
Improvements in the c3nstruction of multipolar djnamo-
electrio machines. Wilfrid L. Spence, The Elms, Sey-
mour-grove, Manchester.
New accumulator battery for telegraph ofllces for military
telegraphs in the field, also for lighting trams, omni-
buses, carriages, (ia^pare Sacco, 14, Leicester- place.
London.
5954. Improvemenu relating to voltmeters. Frederick Brown,
37, Chancery-lane, London.
5931.
5933.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1880.
678. Klectric lamps. Edison. (Fourth edition.)
1890.
232. Klectric motors, etc. Hopkinson and others. (Second
edition. )
1891.
Beoondary batteries. Miiller.
Klectrical batteries Bush and Doubleday.
Klectrioal signalling for railways. Attree.
Distributing electrical energy. De Ferranti.
Klectric lampholders, etc. Royce.
Actuating hammering, eto., machinery by eleetrldtj.
Bolton and Mountain.
Driving dsrnamo-electrlo machines. Heaviside and others.
7433. Testing electric lighting conductors, eto. Salomons.
7518. Telegraph instrument. Bullock and Brown.
7531. Tools for electric linemen, ('uthbcrt.
Storage batteries. Elieson.
Klectric lampposts. Lea.
Dynamo^lectric generators. Kennedy.
Galvanic batteries. Had dan. (Cabanyes. )
16958. Klectric lighting, eto. conductors. Mavor and others.
19968. Klectric motors etc. Burt.
1892.
2016. Conduits for electrical cables, etc. Price.
2026. Klectric telephones. Ltike (Orissinger and another.)
2290. Kleotric riveting. Ries.
2040.
2471.
4740.
6660.
7075.
7372.
7430.
7697.
7728.
8048.
8845.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Brush Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, GutU Percha k Telegraph Co
House-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Electric Construction
Westminster Electric
Liyerpool Klectric Supply , |
10
5
5
6
10
5
8
Prle*
Wodnet
_*^_ _
S|
20i
5
9
'4
'4
3|
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8, 1892.
337
NOTES.
Adiianopolis. — ^A new tramway is to be established
by the municipality at Adrianopolis.
Depntattons. — ^A party of railway and other engineers
visited the Crystal Palace on Thursday.
World's Fair. — ^The electricity and machinery buildings
are rapidly advancing towards completion.
Cleariiiff^lioiise. — We understand that Mr. Gleere
Howard has received the contract for the lighting of the
Clearing-house.
Bfansfleld. — The Mansfield Town Council have had a
Yery animated discussion with reference to the poor lighting
of the public streets by gas.
Rosral Instttntion. — Before the Eoyal Institution
to-night (Friday), at 9 o'clock, Prof. W. E. Ayrton, F.R.S.,
will read a paper on " Electric Meters, Motors, and Money
Matters."
ManolieBter Ship CanaL— On and after June 1 the
Ship Canal Passenger Steamer Syndicate will have a fleet of
electric launches to let for private parties on the Manchester
Ship Canal.
Flyiiiff Maehines. — ^The French Grovernment have a
dirigible balloon, " La France," the driving power for the
propeller being obtained from a motor worked by Renard's
primary battery.
Toynbee Hall. — The next of the science conferences
will be held on Wednesday, April 13, when a paper will
be read on " Electrical Installations," by Mr. Reginald J.
Jones, M.LRK, AM.LC.E.
Xlectrio Traction. — An interesting series of articles
on various systems of electric traction have been appearing
in the Glasgow Herald^ and is being reprinted in book form
by the General Electric Power and Traction Company.
Oeneral Bleotrio Power and Traction Company.
We understand that Mr. Robert Macpherson has resigned
his position as general manager of the company. This
necessarily implies a reorganisation of directorate and staff.
Ckiast Communication. — The Balloon Society have
awarded the Merrett silver medal to Captain Benest, C.E.,
M.I.E.E.,lateof the "Retriever "telegraph ship,forhis distin-
guished services and his paper on " Electric and Telephonic
Coast Communication."
Atlantic Cables. — The United States' Foreign Com-
merce Committee of the House of Representatives has
ordered a favourable report on the resolution to allow the
French Paris-New York Telegraph Company to lay cables
along the cost of N.ith Carolina and Virginia.
Manchester Cables. — The International Okonite
Company, Limited, of Newton Heath, Manchester, and
of Queen Victoria-street, London, have secured the contract
from the Manchester Oas Committee for the electric mains
for the Manchester central electric lighting station.
Tempered Copper. — The largest copper foundry in
the world is that of the Eureka Tempered Copper Com-
pany, of North East, Pennsylvania. The tempered copper
discovered by Mr. Aimer Thomas is largely used for
dynamo commutators and other parts of electrical apparatus.
Electrical Instruments. — Messrs. Whittaker will
issue, immediately, a fifth edition of Mr. Bottone's work
on electrical instrument making, revised, with additional
chapters containing a few simple instructions for making
a small arc lamp, an incandescent lamp, a current reverser,
and so forth.
Telegraph Posts. — ^An application was granted at the
meeting of the Highways Committee of the Norfolk County
Council for permission to erect posts on the road to Yaxham,
the county surveyor explaining, in answer to questions, that
there was no royalty on telegraph poles, but there was on
telephone poles.
Sdinburgli. — At a meeting of the sub-committee of
the Edinburgh Town Council last week, the city law agent
reported that it was quite within the right of the Corporar
tion to delegate their powers to a company. A report was
submitted at the same time from the deputation who
recently visited Glasgow on the subject
Australia Cables. — A Renter's telegram from Bris-
bane says : " The French Government will pay £3,000
towards the cost of laying the cable to New Caledonia, and
New South Wales and Queensland £2,000 each. The cable
will be laid in 18 months. The Queensland Government
is to receive one-seventh of the charges."
Rnbber Tmst. — It is stated that a gigantic rubber
trust has been formed in New York, with a capital of
50,000,000dols., and the extent of its operations and pros-
pects of success may be estimated from the fact that it
embraces every manufacturing and wholesale concern in
the United States with one solitary exception.
Florenoe. — The gas company of Florence is intending
to establish a central electric lighting station, and has put a
certain sum in reserve for this purpose. The munici^Mdity
has, it appears, already entered into competition with its
gas company, and the law has been invoked, the decision
being against the town authorities, both in the first instance
and on appeal.
Bleotrio Mail Senrioe. — A hundred thousand dollars
has been voted by the United States Congress for improved
express mail service between New York and Brooklyn.
The plans of Mr. A. Bryson, jun., of New York, are being
considered for electric motor cars 6ft. long and about a foot
square, driven electrically through a tube at the speed of
100 miles an hour.
Hnddersfield Town Hall. — As will be seen from
their advertisement, the Corporation of Hnddersfield invite
tenders for the electric wiring and electric light fittings for
the Town Hall and Borough Offices. Specification and
plans may be obtained from Mr, A. B. Mountain, borough
electrical engineer, 1, Peel-street, to whom tenders must be
addressed by Thursday, April 28.
Nioaragna. — A concession has been granted by the
Nicaraguan Government to Dr. Louis Cruz for the estab-
lishment of a complete telegraphic service in Nicaragua.
All the material will be admitted duty free, and no similar
privilege will be granted during the continuance of the con-
cession. In return the Grovernment are to be furnished
with 25 instruments and all connections free of expense.
Compound- Winding Patent. — As will be seen from
the full report given elsewhere of the judgment in the
Scotch Courts in the case of the Anglo-American Brush
Electric Light Corporation v. King, Brown, and Co., that
decision on appeal has been made against the validity of
the Brush patent, and therefore another extensive patent —
that of the com|)ound winding of dynamos — is thrown open.
Multiphase Currents and the Telephone. —
The efiect of the multiphase current on the telephone is
much less than that of the simple alternating current,
according to the account of experiments at Offenbach,
published in the Neue Tageblatt. Conversations could be
carried on when the telephone line was strung for a distance
of five miles within 3ft, of the wires carrying the rotary
current.
338
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8, 1892.
Fire Alarms for ChelmBford. — Chelmaford Town
Council have adopted the recommendation of the Fire
Brigade Committee that tenders be obtained for three
alternative achemea for giving alarms of fire. The first
provided for electric bells, the second for a telephone (from
the police station to the pumping station), and the third
for four strong fire alarms in various positions in the town.
Ineandflsoeat Lamps. — As will be seen by their
advertisement, the Edison and Swan Company announce
that a discount of 10 per cent, with additional caah
discount of 2^ per cent., will be allowed to the trade on all
incandescent lamps. In order to prevent underselling by
anyone of the trade, this discount will be allowed only on
the express condition that they do not allow more than
B per cent, discount to private customers
Miners' Lamps. — M. Donato Tonimasi has been giving
his attention to safety-lamps for miners, with special refer-
ence to security in explosive mixtures. Contact of the
terminals with the filament is made by means of an
expanding bulb inside the outer envelope. This outer
globe is pumped full of air and stopped by a tap. The
lamp is put out by turning the tap, or by breaking either
the inner or outer bulbs, by reason of the expansion of the
fiexible contact.
Cheap Trips to the Crystal Palace. ^The season
of cheap trips, including admission, to the Electrical Exhibi-
tion at the Crystal Palace has commenced, and is likely to
prove very successful. That by which a number of inhabi-
tants of Canterbury and other East Kent towns were
enabled to visit the wonders of electricity last weelt seemed
to be thoroughly enjoyed. Several members of the Dover
Corporation took part in the excursion, and the Mayor of
Canterbury, with about 100 citizens, aUo formed an impor-
tant deputation.
Dtmdee. — A special meeting of the Electric Lighting
Committee of the Gas Commission was held last week to
consider plans of the buildings connected with the pro-
posed electric light installation. Mr. Urquhart, of Messrs.
Urquhart and Small, engineers, Westminster, the Board's
consulting engineers, attended, and went over the plans
with the committee. Several alterations regarding matters
of detail were suggested, and it was ultimately agreed to
submit the pkns to Prof. Kennedy, who will report upon
them to the Board.
University Boat Race. — Electric boats will be well in
evidence at the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race on
Saturday. The General Electric Traction Company will
have sevend of their larger boats filled with visitors invited
by Lord Albemarle and the directors. Mr. W. S. Sargeant
will also have a barge near the winning-post at Mortlake,
as well as some launches, and wishes it to be understood
that any electrical engineer (and lady) who wishes to attend
would be welcomed. A line to his address at Chiawick
would be advisable. If the weather lasts, this race should
be a great success.
Wimshorst Haohlne. — In the Wimahurst machine
as at present constructed the polarity is left to chance, and
the experimenter cannot tell in advance at which conductor
it will be positive. Herr J, C. Piirthner, of Vienna, finds
that it is sufficient to rub one uf the brushes strongly on the
ebonite plate for positive electricity to appear on the same
pole of the machine. The pressure, however, wears away
the tinfoil at this place, and to obviate this a third brush
ia attached to the cross-arm, and the pressure of this on the
ebonite can be increased without inconvenience until the
polarity of the conductor remains the same.
Bnmley. — The Gas Committee of the Burnley Corpora
tiOQ met 00 Thursday last week, when, at the suggestion of
the Electric Lighting Sub-Committee, it was decided to
recommend the Council to authorise the committee to obtain
tenders for buildings, boilers, engines, and the necessary
plant for the proposed electric lighting installation. The
sub-committee do not intend to proceed with the work
until the necessary authority for the borrowing of the
money has been obtained from the Local Government
Board, and this will in all probability take some little
time. In the meantime detailed plans and specifications
will be prepared.
Jonmal. — The new number of the Jtrumai of the
Institution of Electrical Engineers (No. 96) has been
issued, containing Prof. Ayrton's presidential address
on " Electrotechnics," together with photographs and
plans of the technical schools referred to in the
address. These include the Royal Technical High School,
Charlottenburg, Berlin ; the Montefiore Electrotecbnical
Institution at Li^ge ; the Massachusetts Institute of Tech-
nology, Boston ; Franklin Hall, Cornell Univerity, Ithaca i
and the Polytechnic, Zurich. The full list of officers and
members of the Institution, and the index to vol. xx., are
also issued by Messrs. Spon.
Lane Fox Patents. — A notice has been advertised
that a petition to the Privy Council will be presented for
the extension of the regulating patent No, 3,988, of 1878,
granted to St. George Lane Fox, for a further term, and
that the 9th of May next, or on such subsequent day as the
Judicial Committee of her Majesty's Privy Council shall
appoint for that purpose, application will be made to that
committee that a time may be fixed for the hearing of the
matter of the petition ; and any person desirous of being
heard in opposition to the petition must enter a caveat
to that eifect in the Privy Council Office on or before the
said 9th day of May next. The notice is issued by Messrs.
Vandercom and Co., 23, Bush-lane, E.G., solicitors for the
petitioners.
Hall. — At a meeting of the Hull Corporation Electric
Lighting Committee held last week, it was unanimously
decided that, in consequence of the necessity for laying so
many more yards of main by reason of the change of site,
the committee recommends that the estimate for the inatat'
lation be increased by a further sum of £3,000. Tenders
for the alterations and additions to the electric light station
were opened, and that of Mr. Graaby, Cumberland-street,
for X2,864, was accepted, Mr. Bingley, the architect, had
estimated that the cost would not exceed £2,300, and it
was suggested that the Corporation should undertake the
work themselves, but this fell through on it being pointed
out that the borough engineer's department was full up
with work, and that it was probable that considerable cost
would have to be incurred in providing new and special
plant for carrying on the work.
Rothschild Electric Carrioirc. — An electric carriage
has recently been conatructed, the mechanical details of
which were worked out at the Rothschild works, at
St, Ouen, near Paris. The motor was supplied by the
Soci^tt- pour la Transmission de la Force ; it is of 3 h.p,,
running at 3,000 revolutiona with 100 volts. Current is
supplied by 48 accumulators, supplied by the SocidtS pour
lo Travail Eiectrique des Metaiix, weighing 8 kg. (I7'6!b.),
each with a capacity of 10 amperes per kilogramme of
useful plate. Three different groupings can be given : four
sets of 12 colls, giving 25 volts, corresponding to a speed
of 3^ kilometres (2J miies) an hour. Half-speed is obtained
by two sets of 13 cells, giving a speed of 7J kilometres
(say 4J miles); and with all cells in series a speed of 16-8
kilometres (say lOJ miles) an hour can be obtained. The
carriage will run 35 to 40 kilometres (say 23 to 25 miles)
with one charge.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8, 1892.
339
Sabways Bill.— The Select Committee continued last
Friday the examination and discussion of the clauses of the
London County Council (Subways) Bill. The clauses
having been settled with the gas companies, an amendment
was moved by the County Council to make the Bill take
the form of a general Act, which could be incorporated in
all future Acts relating to subways. The committee,
however, regarding the provisions of the Bill as experi-
mental, declined to insert the amendment, and in its place
inserted a clause that the provisions of this Bill should not
apply to any further subways unless expressly re-enacted.
The effect of this decision is that the Bill now only applies
to the existing nine subways already constructed in London.
Other clauses having been considered, the Bill, which now
contains but very little of the originally deposited Bill, was
ordered to be reported to the House for third reading.
Ljrnbridfire. — ^A letter was read from Mr. Benn at the
last meeting of the Lynmouth Local Board, stating that he
was prepared to light Lynbridge with electric light, pro-
vided the Board would enter into a 14 years' contract.
The Lighting Committee advised its acceptance ; also Mr.
J. Crocombe's guarantee to provide £5 per annum towards
the expenses of an arc electric light on the Rhine Tower at
Lynmouth. Mr. Beck was of opinion that a 14 years'
term was too long, as there was a prospect of obtaining
electric light at a much cheaper rate, as the different patents
and royalties would soon be run out; he therefore considered
that a seven years' term would be sufficient. It was ex-
plained that the expenses of laying a cable to Lynbridge
would be considerable, and that Mr. Benn would not be
willing to lay on the light without a contract for the 14
years' supply. The Lighting Committee's report was
adopted.
London County Conncil. — The Highways Committee
of the London County Council reported last week stating
they had already suggested to the Board of Trade certain
amendments in the model order which the Board proposed
to adopt for use in cases where the local authorities apply
for powers under the Electric Lighting Acts. Four such
applications have been made this year ; and the Board of
Trade has forwarded, for the Council's observations, two
of the proposed orders — namely, those applied for by the
Vestry of Hampstead and the Whitechapei District Board —
in the form in which the Board proposes to issue them,
nearly all the amendments suggested on behalf of the
Council in the model form of order having been adopted.
The committee have carefully examined these orders, which
appear to be satisfactory, and recommend that the Board of
Trade be informed that the Council approves of the form
in which the Board proposes to issue the said orders.
Lead-Covered Ckindnotors. — The substitution of
lead instead of zinc for coating or galvanising conductors is
advocated in an article in L* Electricien, Zinc has certain
disadvantages — tendency to form an alloy, high melting
temperature, te ~ '!ency to flake off. Lead seems to be pre-
ferable for certain reasons, and its application is similar to
that of zinc. The objects are cleaned electrically, and
immersed in an aqueous solution containing 10 per
cent, of hydrochloric acid and 1 per cent, of hydro-
fluoric acid, heated to 50deg. C. in a vessel coated with
lead. They are connected to one pole of a dynamo as
anode, the lead coating constituting the other pole. After
this preparation they are dipped into lime-water of the
same temperature, and then into an alloy of equal parts of
zinc and tin in hydrochloric acid, which greatly favours
the adherence of the melted lead, into which they are then
dipped. The process is economical and is not confined in
its advantage to iron or steel articles, but may be used for
chemical and electrolytic vessels. The iron or steel wires
serving as protection in armoured cables, it is suggested,
might be advantageously treated by this method in prefer
ence to the ordinary galvanising process.
Self-Disoharfire of Aoonmnlators. — Dr. Rriigel, of
Berlin, gives an account in the EMUroiechnische ZeUschrift
of the result of some interesting and important
observations upon the discharge of the negative plates of
secondary cells on open circuit The observations were
carried out upon Tudor cells. In an installation it had
been remarked that the capacity of a battery was much
less than that guaranteed, and that the battery left by
itself became discharged in a few hours. A careful examina-
tion showed that the negative plates only were discharged,
the metallic lead becoming oxidised with much disengage-
ment of hydrogen. Other negative plates were put in
their place after a strong charge, and the battery now acted
well. Numerous tests and analyses showed that the cause
was due to the presence of foreign metals dissolved in the
electrolyte, which were deposited during charge on the
negative plates, where they form couples with the reduced
lead. In particular, on the acids giving this effect were
found copper, arsenic, antimony, molybdenium, and
platinum, the latter having a decided effect even if only in
quantities of one-millionth. The manufacturers now only
use the acid after having precipitated the metals by sulph-
hydric acid.
Hall Tramways. — Since the collapse some time ago
of the negotiations between the Hull Corporation and a
syndicate of gentlemen for the leasing to the latter of the
Hull street tramway system, which the Corporation are
arranging to take over from the existing company or
companies, negotiations have been opened up with other
gentlemen with a view to working the system on a lease,
and a subcommittee of the Corporation have this week been
in London, says the local paper, engaged in completing the
preliminary agreement. This, it is understood, has been
done, though at present everything is dependent upon
whether the Corporation are willing to agree to the arrange-
ment, which is only provisional. The terms of this have
not yet been made public, but it is stated that they provide
for the taking over of the whole of the tram lines of the
town, the cars on a portion of which are now drawn by
steam, the making of double lines in lieu of the present single
line with sidings, and the leasing of the whole to a syndi-
cate who will supply a four minute service of electric cars.
Such an arrangement, if the terms prove acceptable to the
Corporation, will be regarded with satisfaction by the
townspeople.
Inoreasinff Revenne. — How electric companies can
increase revenue without increasing their charges is the
problem investigated by Mr. J. H. Babcock in the New
York ElectricaL Engineer, Ry using the exhaust steam for
heating houses and buildings, says Mr. Babcock, and quotes
an example he has in his mind's eye of an electric plant in
a town of less than 20,000 inhabitants in which the exhaust
steam is thus used. The power station contains three
boilers of 100 h.p. each, and one of 150 h.p. The company
has itself constructed four and a half miles of electric
railway, which runs 18 hours out of the 24. It also does
lighting, for which plant is in use 12 to 14 hours a day, so
that some power is required throughout the whole day and
night. Its exhaust steam the company circulates in
2^ miles of underground steam-pipes of lOin., 8in., 6in.,
5in., and 4in. diameter. In these a pressure of 12'15lb. of
steam is carried; this produces a back pressure in the
engines, and the boiler pressure is increased to this extent.
The company has now 138 customers, paying an average of
lOOdols. " a season." Meters are used. The income from
this department is sufficient to pay 6 per cent on
340
THE ELfiCtRiOAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8, 189^
150|000dols., and the outlay for pipes was only one-
quarter this amount
Utilisatioii of Water Power in France. —A
scheme on a large scale for the utilisation of water power
by electricity has been recently elaborated by the French
Conseil d'Etat. A navigable canal is to be established
between Jous and Lyons with water power from the
Rhone, and the force of the waterfall which will be thus
created will be used to distribute power by electricity.
The work is to be carried out by a priyate combination of
capitalists, amongst whom are MM. Ghabri^res, Arl^s,
Demachy, Pila, de Reinach, and others, who will have the
right during the concession to the sale of power and acces-
sory products. In return the prefect will have control over
the work and exploitation. No absolute monopoly, subven-
tion, or guarantee is given. A limited company is to be
formed six months after the passing of the project, which will
spend 12 million francs on actual work. The charges by
the departments through which the wires are led are not to
exceed 5c. (^d.) per metre for two conductors, or 10c. (Id.)
per metre above this. The Lyonnais district is rich in
natural forces and in possibilities for their utilisation, and
the scheme is understood to have the sanction of engineering
and electrical experts. It does not appear to be decided
whether alternating, rotary, or direct currents are to be
used.
IdverpooL — Before the Liverpool City Council on
Wednesday the minutes of the Watch Committee were dis-
cussed. These contained a resolution that having considered
the question of using the electric light in lieu of the present
mode of lighting the city, the committee were of opinion
that, having regard to the conditions of rapid development
to which the system of electric light was now subject, it
was not at present advisable to adopt the system
in the city. Mr. Purcell congratulated the city
engineer upon the concise and interesting report he
had prepared on this subject. He should like to know
why the engineer's recommendation to try the experiment
in a certain area had not been adopted by the committee.
Mr. Duncan replied that the average cost of lamps in the
city was £3. 3s. per lamp, but in the district marked out by
the engineer the cost was as much as £5. 8s. per lamp.
Considering that the cost would have to be defrayed
by the whole of the ratepayers, and also remember-
ing that this particular district was at the present
time exceptionally well lighted, the committee did not
see their way to carry out the engineer's suggestion. The
committee had no desire to shelve the question. Elec-
trical developments were going on every day, and as a
large scheme was being tested in London, the committee
thought it wise to wait until they ascertained by that
experiment how much light was obtained, and at what
additional cost. Mr. Brownhill thought the Council-
chamber should be lighted by electricity ; the Mayor
remarking that he had no doubt the chairman of the
Finance Committee would take that into consideration.
The recommendation was confirmed.
Worcester. — A meeting of the Worcester City Council
was held on Tuesday to consider the establishment of an
electric lighting central station. Mr. Alderman Hill moved,
"That, subject to obtaining the sanction of the Local Govern-
ment Board to the requisite loan, this Council, is in favour
of accepting the tender of the Brush Electrical Company for
supplying electric light for the city, but delays the actual
acceptance of the tender pending the receipt of a leport from
the Watch Committee as to the portion of the tender which
should be accepted, and especially as to (1) whether pro-
vision should be made for steam power only, or steam and
water power combined ; and (2) should provision be made
for street lighting." Mr. G. H, Williamson seconded. Mr.
Millington said that the Council would at present be voting
in the dark, and moved that the members be supplied with
copies of the tenders of the Brush and Storage systems. Mr.
Chaplin seconded. After a long discussion, Mr. Millington's
amendment was carried by 21 votes to 15. The following is
the list of figures and companies tendering — the abstract
of the report on these we gave last week. The amounts
are total cost of plant and mains, but do not include
buildings :
Electric CoDstruotion Company ^^'^S
Siemens Bros, and Co ^^'SS
Weetinghonse ^*S?
Paterson and Cooper ?S*iio
Woodhonse and KawBon • i2
Crompton and Co ^'iol
Hammond and Co. and J. Fowler and Co. (jointly) 24,824
Laing, Wharton, and Down Syndicate 22,875
Electrical Power Storage Company 21,249
British Electric Installation Contractors 21,169
Brush Electrical Engineering Company 21,009
Messrs. Ferranti, we believe, only tendered on the basis of
9,000 instead of 12,000 8-c.p. kmps.
Leeds Blectric Tramways.— The whole question of
electric tramways must shortly be considered by the Leeds
Corporation. It seems evident that the Leeds Tramways
Company have decided to allow the lease of the lines now
under its management to continue until the expiration in
August next. The Wellington section of the ordinary
tramway is being relaid, and the Headingley section, which
was recently condemned by Major-General Hutchinson, has
been put into a more satisfactory condition. Notwith-
standing the delay in the transference of the company's
undertaking to the Corporation, the Council will
before long have come to some arrangement as to
the future working of the tramways, and io the considera-
tion of this matter one of the most important factors will
doubtless be the question as to whether the electric system
shall be adopted on any of those lines now worked by horse
or steam power. The electric tramways are already being
extended by the continuation of the line from Oreen-road,
along Beckett-street, and down to York-street to the
junction of the latter thoroughfare with ELirkgate, near
the Covered Market. The additional section has been
temporarily leased to Mr. Graff Baker, the lessee of the
Roundhay Park electric tramway. The work of laying
down the roadway and putting up the poles and over-
head wires is proceeding satisfactorily, the rails have
been ordered, and it is expected that the extension will
be completed by Whitsuntide. When that is done the
electric tramway will form a direct connection between one
of the busiest parts of the town and Eoundhay Park, and
will not only be serviceable to the numerous population
living along the route, but to the townspeople going to and
from the park, who would otherwise go by 'bus, . or be
obliged to change cars at Sheepscar. There has been some
talk of extending the electric tramway at the Boundhay
Park terminus by making a circular route along one of the
new roads, but nothing definite has yet been settled in this
direction.
Blaokpool. — The project of the Blackpool Corporation
for the extension of the electric lighting is likely to have
an immediate outcome. A comprehensive report of the
investigations of the Electric Lighting Committee is to be
submitted at the next Council meeting, in which the
committee not only recommend the adoption of a complete
installation for the town, but submit a definite system to
proceed upon, a certain price to be charged, and full details
for management and control of the works. — ^A meetinf; was
held last week, at which Mr. Councillor Pearson addressed
the Blackpool Tradesmen's Association. The chairman
(Mr. Councillor Heap) stated that the monopoly of the
THE ELECTRIOAl EKGISEER, APRIL 8, 1892.
341
Corporation would expire thia year, and that unless they
resoived to establish a complete installation private
companies might step in, Mr. Councillor Pearson then
explained the position. Three or four yeara ago a resolu-
tion to obtain a provisional order was attempted, bat
defeated. Eventually an Electric Lighting Committee was
fonned, and this committee had collected ample infoi-ma-
tion. A circular letter would shortly be issued by the town
clerk to tradesmen and ratepayers, enquiring how many
lamps would be required. The price bad not yet been fixed,
but it was not thought that it would be above 7d. per Board
of IVade uniL The limit was 8d., and they would supply
at 6d. if found possible. The average cost of wiring would
be£l per lamp, and at 8d. the outside limit, the charge would
for current amount to less than ^d. per hour. With regard
to arc lamps, he considered these suitable for shops and
advertising puiposes, and the committee had recently
seen a very pretty lamp called the Midget, which came
to about £5 per lamp first cost, and about X3 to £5 a year
to bum. The speaker stated that the committee intended
to extend the lighting of the Promenade and some of the
principal thoroughfares. The chairman thought the winter
gardens and the theatres, circuses and large business places,
would have the light at once. He estimated the cost of
plant between XI5,000 and £30,000, but did not think it
would be less than £20,000. A resolution was carried
that the meeting considered it the duty of the Corporation
to install the light at Blackpool for public and private pur-
poses, to prevent outside companies from obtaining powera.
Dnblin-BeUast Telephons, — A project of great
importance to Ireland nas inaugurated on Tuesday at the
Belfast Chamber of Commerce, when the National Tele-
phone Company opened telephonic communication between
Dublin and Belfast, nbich are upwards of 100 miles apart.
A number of leading gentlemen witnessed the inaugural
experiments, including the Mayor of Belfast, the President
of the Belfast Chamber of Commerce, the Chairman of the
Harbour Commissioners, and the Postmaster. The
Mayor having been called to the chair. Alderman
Connor, as chairman of the local board of the
telephone company, made a short statement relative to the
introduction of the telephone into Ireland and its establish-
ment in Belfast. The first efficient instrument for exchange
purposes was exhibited in Belfast in that Chamber just 12
years ago, between the Chamber and the warehouse of
Messrs. Ewart in Bedford-street. In April of that year an
exchange was opened in Belfast, and about 50 subscribers
were provided witb telephonic communication. Before
many months arrangements had to be made to increase the
accommodation. The old switchboards were abandoned, and
the multiple board of the Western Electrical Company of
Chicago was introduced. Linos were made to Larne, Lurgan,
Portadown, and elsewhere, but the demands continued
to grow, and now premises had to be taken in High-
street, and all the latest improvements placed there.
In old days, the number of calls a day would be 300
or 400 ; now they were about 7,500, or about 10
calls for each subscriber. Most of these calls were
made during three or four hours of the day. The line
which had just been completed to Dublin was on the
most approved principle, known as the metallic loop. The
Telephone Company of Ireland had made special lines to
Dundalk, Drogheda, and Castlebellingham. It was the
intention of the company, after that line had been opened,
to afford the public an opportunity for one week of com-
munication with Dublin free of charge, and so give them a
more intimate idea of the possibilities which might yet accrue
from a line of telephone. Congratulatory messages then
passed between the Lord Mayor of Dublin and the Mayor of
Belfast, arrangements having been made so that many of
the visitors present could also hear the messages. The
speaking was very distinct, and the whole ceremony
exceedingly interesting.
Hon-Ardng Metals. — An interesting paper, appa-
rently opening an investigation into a somewhat novel
field, was read by Mr. Alexander J. Worts before the
American Institute of Electrical Engineers, on " Lightning
Arresters and the Discovery of Non-Arcing Metals." Mr.
Wurts wished to obtain a satisfactory lightning arrester,
and the idea (emanating from Mr. Paul Winsor) was that if
an arc was established in the neck of a bottle the rising of
the heated air would break it. The advantage of a self-
breaking arc would be for adaptation to lightning arresters,
for in these a discharge sometimes establishes an are
over which the main circuit current is diverted. The
first ideit was carried out in practical form, and a 1,000-
volt 4,000-light machine was short^rcuited through such an
arrester 400 times without deterioration. For an arc-light
circuit he adopted the idea of a pivoted carbon contact
passing into a chamber in which, if an arc were established,
the air expanded and blew the contact over into the
adjacent chamber, where it nearly touched another contact,
thus breaking the arc, but resetting the arrester. These
acted on a non-inductive circuit. He next tried some
experiments with a belt giving off frictional electricity:
Stretching a wire parallel to the belt, beautiful purple
streamers were given as an aurora to the wire. Sparks
issued from the wire if insulated, but not if one end ware
grounded. Then a second wire was stretched parallel to
the first and grounded; thereupon no action was experi-
enced in the first. Soon after be learned that an overhead
grounded wire had been used to advantage, and was sur-
prised that it was not more in general use. He next tried
some experiments that are certainly novel, which we will
briefly describe, necessarily much condensed. An inter-
rupter was made of saw-edged carbon with jg^in. air gap on
a 1,000-volt circuit, combined with instantaneous break and
remake contrivance. The air gap was bridged by tinfoil,
and the switch turned. An arc formed, the device acted,
and the arc stopped, but immediately went on again, due
to the rush of current across air gap to the white-heated
carbons. The discharger was now made of three solid brass
rods, having air gap of tV'"- '^^^ result was a success, the
spark being insignificant. Butwitblarge bars, 2Jin. diameter,
the bars of metal were melted like wax. He investigated
this interesting result — the smaller bars again gave an arc
no Digger than a pea. To make a long story short, Mr.
Wurts found the difference was not in size nor physical
structure, but their composition — bars containing tin and
copper acted badly, bars containing zinc and copper broke
the arc at once. Dischargers were made of hard steel, bard-
drawn copper, aluminium bronze, and aluminium — all of
which failed. The next tested was zinc, which was most
successful. Tin and nickel failed — tin making a splendid
fiery display. Antimony worked perfectly. The theory
advanced is that zinc and antimony chokes the air gap
with vapours of high resistance, and so stops the arc. The
chemical properties of zinc and antimony were compared
with the others tested, and it was seen that of these latter
none were in the zinc group according to Mendalejeff's
grouping. The other metals in the zinc group are
cadmium, mercury, and magnesium. Cadmium was found
non-arcing. Manganese also, curiously enough, is non*
arcing at low RM.F. (100 volts), but took fire, as expected, at
260. Mercury, in the form of a copper amalgam, was the
most successful of all. Currents of 1,000 volts wen used
in all tests except in that of nugnesium. A pcMtiBil noo-
arcing discharger is made by Mr. WnrU o" ** **
342
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRtL 8, 1892.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
DIRECT-CURRENT DYNAMOS.— IIL
BY R. W. WEEKES, WHIT.SCH.
Comkueiian of Commuiaiors, — The insulation oi the com-
mutator segments has been much improved of late years.
The first miakers of dynamos used asbestos sheet or vul-
canised fibre to insulate the commutator parts, but these
were found to have neitber the mechanical or electrical
properties required.
When the dynamo was placed in a situation exposed to
damp air, the asbestos absorbed the moisture, thus ruining
the insulation. The mechanical failing was due to the soft
character of the 'material. It always wore away more
quickly than the metal, and so left grooves in which dirt
and copper dust accumulated. This failing made it difficult
to keep a good surface on the commutator. A file could
not be used without filling up the grooves, and if the com-
mutator was turned up in the lathe the edges of the strips
were almost sure to burr over and short-circuit.
It may be that these difficulties were increased by the
sparking which occurred in these early machines, but I
think that asbestos will never come into favour again for
this purpose. Mica is now always used, and it successfully
overcomes the above-mentioned faults. It also has a special
value as a lubricator, and helps to maintain that burnished
surface on the commutator which is the pride of dynamo
attendants.
Fig. 19.
The sparking at the brushes has been overcome by
improvements in the design, chiefly by the use of very
strong magnetic fields, and correspondingly few turns of
armature conductor. Also the number of commutator seg-
ments has been increased, and thus the self-induction of the
part of the conductor short-circuited while passing under the
brush has been diminished very much The best material
to use for the segments is still a matter undecided.
At first cast brass was used, then rolled copper of the
Fio. 20.
desired section replaced this, and now there is a tendency to
revert to castings, the metal used being copper, or as nearly
pure copper as it is possible to cast. The casting has the
advantage of enabling the lug to be made in one piece
with the segment, and the makers who use them say that
uniform wear can be obtained if the selection of the
metal is carefully attended to. The drawn copper strip
has the recommendation of having passed a long triid
successfully, and will not be displaced easily. The east-
brass commutator is still used by one or two makers.
The connection of the conductor to the commutator is
eflfected by soldering by all the English makers, but the
screw connection is still used in the dynamos imported by
Messrs. Laing, Wharton, and Down.
Methods of Holding the Segments.— The first essential is
that the segments should be gripped so that the strain
tends to force them together more closely. This is
generally done. Figs. 19 and 20, by two conical surfaces, one
at either end of the commutator. This by itself is not
-
I
,,
^"^
^^
Fio. 21
sufficient to prevent displacement, as a blow will drive
one segment in below the others. Many firms use this
method of holding the parts, but their arrangements to
prevent this latter fault difier slightly.
Messrs. J. H. Holmes and Co. have adopted a hard wood
ring turned to fit the inside of the commutator, as shown
in fig. 19. This ring need not be a fit on the commutator
centre. Messrs. Siemens Bros, and Co. fit the segment
directly on to the centre, Fig. 22, and insulate with mica.
In this case the mica is inserted in slots in the commutator
centre, and small pieces are placed under each segment.
Many other firms adopt somewhat the same arrange-
Fig. 22.
ments of supporting the segments on the centre, except as
regards this latter detail. The cones are usually insulated
with fibre, but asbestos saturated with varnish, after having
been pressed into shape, answers well. Mica is sometimes
used, but it is difficult to get uniform insulation by sticking
pieces together round the cone.
Another method of preventing the displacement of a
single strip, is that used by Messrs. Johnson and
Phillips, Fig. 20. The segments are keyed together
by the ring of insulation, shown black in the sketch.
M
Fig. 23.
This is usually fibre or ebonite, and while making an efifec-
tive tie, it does not prevent the cones binding the whole
commutator together.
The double cone, Fig. 21, is still used, but it has only
the advantage of complying with the last requirement
The centre requires most accurate fitting, and then does
not put any inward pressure on the segments to bind them
together. The Electric Construction Corporation have dis-
pensed with cones, and use large fiat surfaces. Fig. 23.
The ends are insulated with fibre, and the centre is made a
driving fit over the projecting pieces, so as to bind them
together.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8, 1892.
343
Brashes. — The gauze bruaheB have now come generally
into use, and the great majority of the machines in the
Exhibition are fitted with them. The material used is
either brass or copper gauze, and some makers claim that
the brass brush runs cooler on copper commutators.
Carbon bruahes are not shown in use in any of the larger
dynamos, and I hear that it is difficult to get them to run
cool while taking off the same current or the copper
bnishes. This does not, however, detract from their
usefulness in tramcar and other motor work.
It is difficult to measure even approximately the surface
of the brush in contact with the commutator, and so I have
taken the cross-section of the brush in the following list.
Approxi-
mate Bee-
Maker.
tion of
:QrrBnt.
sky, amperes
brushoB.
sq..D.
poration
1-12
240
216
2-25
2-25
150
66
Gulcher
1-5
600
400
Johnaon k PhilUpti
204
620
23S
6-00
1.600
267
Doppor gauze
From this it will be seen that a density of 250 amperes
per square inch is about the general practice, as all these
machines run without heating at the brushes ; at full load
this is an ample allowance.
Bearings. — This subject has been so well investigates! by
mechanical engineers that the proportions required to
ensure cool running are now well known. There is a great
uniformity in the general design of the dynamo bearings
exhibited, and the length is usually three to three and
& half times the diameter of the shaft. The question of
the number of bearings to be used in a direct-coupled
plant is still open.
The practice of coupling the armature directly on to
the shaft outside tbe engine bearing, and so dispensing with
the second dynamo bearing, is tbe most general plan.
The advantages of this are that it is more easy to get
perfect alignment in three bearings than in four, and the
length of tbe whole plant can be reduced considerably.
This reduction of floor space is of special value when tbe
plant is to be used for shipligfating. The chief disad-
vantage is that any vibration of the engine due to
knocking, etc., is communicated to the armature, and may
in time develop a fault. The introduction of the second
dynamo bearing helps to reduce this. With the disc type
of armature tbe effect of vibration is apt to cause contact
between the poles and the revolving armature. Hence
the makers of this type invariably use the fourth
bearing. To make up for any difficulty in alignment, and
to prevent still more the transmisaion of the vibration of
the engine to the armature, the Brush Company have
introduced the Raworth flexible coupling, Figs. 24 and 26,
This practically consists of two flexible drag links,
Then if the shafts should be parallel, but a little out of
line, the links act aa in the case of an ordinary drag link
and prevent any undue atrain. Any want of alignment
in any direction not parallel to the engine shaft is taken
up by flexibility of tbe steel spring forming the links.
Tbia firm also show a somewhat similar coupling with
solid links, but this does not answer so well as tbe above,
as it compensates only when the shafts are parallel. Any
other error gives rise to strains in the links.
Tbe other coupling illustrated is an insulated one, manu-
factured by J. H. Holmes and Co. for their shi plighting plant,
Fig. 36. This is for use with the aingle-wire system of ship-
lighting. With this system, when one terminal and the
armature core are both connected to the ship, there is more
likelihood of a short circuit occurring t« the core. To
overcome this possibility, the coupling is competely insu-
lated, as shown. The hard disc fitting inside ensures that
one half of the coupling shall be concentric with the
other half. The dynamo bearing is also insulated, so
that there is no electrical connection between the core and
the ship.
Adjustable Biarings. — Two firms show dynamos fitted
with ball and socket arrangement in the bearing to
ensure evenness of wear. The Electric Construction
Corporation use them in their motor-generator. The
Fio. 25.
outsides of the gunmetal bushes have a spherical surface
where they fit into the pedestal, and so allow the abaft to
adjust the brasses till they are in line. This answers well
In a belt driven machine or a motor-generator,
Fio 28
Other firm, Messrs. Ronald Scott and Co., use a similar
device in a direct-coupled dynamo and it is very doubtful
if they gain any practical advantage by so doing.
When one end of the shaft is fixed the ball bearing
cannot adjust for any error, exceijt \ ' '
344
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8, 1892.
utd tnon of Itnl tn vary likely to be introdncfld wbieb
manot be compaDHted for.
Tlie right-feMprineiple of lubricatjoa ii no«t generally
■kown, mt the Eleetric GonBtruction Corporation hare a
good aelf-oUing gear attKbed to tbeir motor-eeneratora.
It eonairtfl of a amall foroe-pump fixed abore t£e bearing
and driren from an eccantrio turned on the end of the
abaft The oil ia delivered, as unial, to the upper side of
the bearing. The oil, after pMsing tbe bearing, is drained
off into an oil filter which is fitted in a recess in the frame
of the machine. The circulation is good, and the filter
mtut work well, as the same oil is used that was put in
when the Exhibition was opened. The arrangement should
enaure cool working when, as is intended, the motor-
generator ia placed in a sub-station w^ont an attendant
to look after it.
Tlie Bmih Company have a somewhat similar systom,
hut that is fitted to a Mordey alternator, and will be
deeeribed under that bead.
THE RIES AND HENDERSON SY8TEU OF ELECTRICAL
RIVBTINO.
The American electrical papers recently published the
text of an important deciaion rendered by the United
States Commissioner of Patents in the interference pro-
oeedioga which have been pending for some years past
between Mr. £lias E. Ries, of Baltimore, Md., and Prof.
Elihu Thomson, of Lynn, Mass., in which the commissioner
■ostains, on final appeal, the original decision of the
examiners of interference awarding Uie priority of invention
on the broad art of electrical riveting, and for the apparatus
forpractiBing this art, to Mr. Elias E. Ries.
lie intanerence proceedings were hotly contested on
both sidee, and brought together some of the be«t legal
t«lent in the States, and the decision rendered gave Mr, Riea
a virtual monopoly of the electrical riveting industry in
America. Patonts covering this system have also been
taken out in England and elsewhere by Mr. Ries, who has
done a large amount of work in connection with electric
riveting and electrical welding in its various branches. He
has also filed application for some veiy important detail
patents in conjunction with his system of electrical riveting.
We would refer parties wishing te look further into this
matter te Mr. W. J. Hammer, who is the representative of
the interests of Messrs. Ries and Henderson, at Stand 62,
CiTStal Palace.
Mr. Ries has taken out a large number of importent
patente in connection with electric welding. It is doubtful
if any field for the application of this system presents a
more commercial aspect, or is destined to meet with a
r application than bis system of electrical riveting.
is found for many purpoeei to be far ■uperior, as well as
more economical and rapid, than the ordinary meUioda ol
riveting now in use, in wnich the riveU are first heated to
incandescence and then carried to and insnted in the bolea
in the which they are headed. The advantage of beii^t able
te insert the rivet cold and beating it while in place to the
exact degree of plasticity required to obtain the beet reenlta,
the facility with which the heat is localisad and oontroUed
in the electrical process, as well as the ease with which the
current may be transmitted along the line of a ■tmotore
being riveted to any point at which the riveter may be at
work and there converted to produce the local heat effect
required, are features that cannot faU to produce a marked
revolution in this important industry. In the accompanying
drawing. Fig. 1, is a side elevation of one form of
riveting machine embodying the invention in which tbe
generating or inductional transformer forms the integral
part of the frame of the machine. Fis;. 2 is the side
elevation of another riveting machine embodying featurea
of this invention.
greater application than bis system of electrical riveting, without getting hot. The efficiency cuimed ia higb ; it
It haa au«ady bean a{^ed to a wide range of wwk, and j ia steted to be over 90 per ceot Theae motwa do not
Tbe Blaoknuui TentUaUng Oompanr have several
of their Blackman fans at the Crystal P.ilace, some driven
by belting by means of small motors, and some combined
with the motor aa part of the fan iteelf. The latter form,
of which we give an illustration, ia worth a little attention
from electrical engineers on account of the novel form oi
the moter employed. This is a multipolar motor with
alternate poles in both field and armature, the armature
being formed by the rim of tbe fan itself. There are oidy
two bnisfaes, and the motor rnns on an exceedingly low
consumption of current. The 3ft. fan shown at the Exhi*
bition mns with one ampere at 107 volts, not vwy maoh
more than is required for a 16-c.p. lamp. The 2ft fan
will run at a very high rate, up to iSO revolationi
with one ampere. This arrangement it the inven-
tion of Mr. Watel, engineer to the company, and
the motor makes a very light and efficient form.
It is not claimed the design would be well for larga
motors, but for fans it seems excellent The 3ft motor
weighs Jcwt. without the fan ; the complete motor for tbe
12in. fan weighs only ISlb., and yet will work up to 1 Ild,
without getting hot. The efficiency jcUimed ia higo ; it
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8, 1892.
345
get hot, putlf beduse of the continual stream of air around
them, and also becaiiH gf the high resiataace to which they
are wound. The great problem was to get the armature to
ruu at all succewfuUy at this diameter. The plan adopted
seems very aatisfactory, and we understand over 160 of
these fans have been sold since last autumn, principally
for banks, restaurants, and accumulator ventilators.
Various small improvements are being introduced, such
as the use of cast-irou cored commutators instead of
fibre. The motors are wound to go on any
circuit, and amongst the places where they are in use
are the Holborn Restaurant, where there are two 18in. fans,
London and Brazilian Bank (one 24in. for accumulator-
room) ; the Savoy Mansions have two, the Houses of
Parliament have the same number, and the Admiralty have
adopted their use after trial, and they are being fitted on
board H.U.S. " Royal Sovereign," where two 24in. fans are
used for ventilation. They can also equally well be used
for warming, and the Roy^ Institution is an instance where
one 3ft. Blackman fan is used for warming. It is an interest-
ing and comforting fact to be able to state that tbe Blackman
Ventilating Co. report a large amount of trade already
from their exhibit at the Crystal Palace Exhibition.
They find it the case with all exhibitions, and at the Paris
Exhibitionover200fanswere ordered from their exhibit itself.
All which is to show, for one thing, that exhibitions really
are good for trade, and also that if the attention of the
visitors is to be attracted, moving machinery of some kind
is by far the best thing to do it. A striking show, if made
moving, carries it own advertisement, and there is probably
no one who has been to the exhibition who does not
remember the rotating Blackman air propellers.
THE ELECTRIC MOrOR: A PRACTICAL DESCRIP-
TION OF THE MODERN DYNAMO MACHINE.
MORE PARTICULARLY AS A MOTOR*
RY W. B. SAYRRS.
The object of the present paper is to describe the
essential features of m<Klern continuous-current dynamos,
considered as motors, of the types more generally in use in
this country — i.e., the ring and the drum types — in such a
manner as to render their mode of operation, and the
essential conditions of satisfactory working, clear to
p>echanical engineers. In spite of the many able papers
that have been read before this and other societies on the
subjects of the dynamo machine, the electrical transmission
of power, and kindred topics, I am not aware of any which
have aimed at quite the same object as I have in view.
They have all, I think, treated the subject either so deeply
an to be understood and appreciated only by specialists, or
so superficially as not to amount to a practical deMription
at all. I shall try and steer between these two extremes.
If an engineer has to put down a motor for any pnrpoee he
will naturally be shy of adopting one the principle of which
is not at his finger ends, as is the principle of a steam, gas,
or compressed-air motor. Every engineer understands the
broad principles on which these motors work, even thoudi
the particular line of his profession has not led him to mske
a study of the properties of steam, of compressed fluids or
hydraulics, or of tne points to be considered in designing
an economical motor of any kind. I venture to hope, then,
that this paper, with the (fiscussion of the subject which I
hope may follow, will do something to assist those who
have no desire or no time to make a special study of elec-
trical engineering, to get grounded, if I may so speak, in
the broad principles upon which electric motors depend for
their action.
The conception of force impressed upon the piston of a
steam or compressed air motor by fluid under pressure
presents little or no difficulty to the mind. The force
exerted by a fluid under pressure, or in rapid motion —
though the fluid be invisible— is a phenomenon which is
deprived of any trace of mystery by everyday experience.
We frequently feel the force of tbe wind upon our bodiea,
or upon our umbrellas when we use them in a storm, and
it requires no more than ordinary observation to tell us
that air offers resistance to compression, and that, if com-
pressed, it exerts force upon the sides of the vessel in
which it is confined. But the force exerted upon a con-
ductor in which an electric current is flowing, when the
conductor is in a magnetic fielJ, is a phenomenon for which
there is no parallel in ordinary experience. The armature
of an electric motor stands clear of the other parts of the
machine, except at the bearings and brushes, ana the torque
is exerted upon it, across an air space, without tbe apparent
intervention of any solid material. It is not sue^estwl that
the force is exerted without an intervening medium between
the two bodies acted upon, or, in other words, that action
is produced at a distance. How it is exerted or transmitted
is a question the solution of which is undoubtedly involved
in the question of the constitution and properties of the
ether, a subject which is far beyond the province of my
paper.
The Etemenlary Principle on which the Electric Jifot^r
Depends. — Suppose this bar, which is one square inch in
cross-section and 39'37in., or one metre, in length, to be
made of H.C. copper, and to be connected at its two ends
with some source of electric supply, and so to have an
electric current of let us say 100 amperes flowing through
it. The efiect of this current upon tbe bar would be that
it would tend eomewhit feebly to set itself in a plane at
right angles to the direction of the earth's magnetic field —
which is indicated at any spot by the direction taken up
by the " dipping needle " — and there would be a small
force acting upon it in a direction at right angles to the
direction of the magnetic field and to tne length
of the bar. This lorce would be proportional to
the strength of the field, to tbe length of the bar,
and to the current flovring through the bar. The force
would be due to the interaction of the electric current and
the magnetic field. Tbe magnetic field which pervades the
surface of the earth is a very weak one, only from ^^^^^^y
to xTwir ^^ ^^^ strength or intensity commonly obtained
between tbe poles of a dynamo machine or electric motor.
Pig. 1 represents an electromagnet which might be
constructed to produce a magnetic field of about 10,000
C.G.S. units in tbe air gap ; this is about 20,000 timea
(roughly speaking) the strength of the earth's magnetic
field. It is a somewhat more intense field than usually
obtains in the interpolar space or air gap in a dvnamo
machine or electric motor, but it is a convenient value for
our present purpose.
The main body of the magnet would consist of a mass of
wrought iron bent into the form of a link, and we will
suppose it to be 39'37in., or one metre, deep — tliat is, oae
metre in the direction at right angles to the plane of the
jiaper. Upon tbe two limbe of the mass, I have repre-
sented 17 turns of copper bar, wound on helically. The
iron mass is not a continuous loop, there is an air gap -79in.|
or two centimetres, wide. If we now suppose uie copper
34«
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER. APRIL 8, 1892.
ooils apon this mua of iron to be also connected with
a inpply nraroe, and that a current of 1,000 amperes is
therabf sent through them, the result would be that a
toadnetio flux would be produced through the iron mass
and ftcrose the air gap of a density or a strenf(th of
about 10,000 C.6.S. units. That is to say, the maf;iietic field
in the air gap, or interpolar apace, would be rather mure than
20,000 times as strong as the earth's magnetic field, which
is a little under 05 G.6.S. units in this part of the world.
If our metre bar carrying 1,000 amperes were placed in
this space as represented in the diagram, it would be acted
on by a force of 10^ dynes, which is equal to about 2241b.,
in a direction at right angles to its length, as indicated by
the arrow. The force would be independent of the velocity
or direction of movement of the bar, bo long as the con-
ditions were maintained. The reversal of direction either
of the current or of the magnetic field would reverse the
direction of the force. It is upon the interaction between
B conductor carrying an electric current, and a powerful
magnetic field produced by an electromagnet, such as I
have exampled, that an electric motor depends for its
driving force, As I have before said, the force is propor-
tional to the product of the length of the bar, L, by tbe
intensity of tos magnetic field, I, by the strength of tbe
current, C. Thus, if C is in amperes, I in C.O.S. units,
and L in G.G.S. units — that is, centimetres —
C X I X L.
force in dynes,
1,000 X 10,000 X 100
— 10* dynes; or
1.000 X 10.000 X 100 X 2-3_
10 X 981 X 1.000
2241b.
A motor in which the driving bars were of this size would
be a large one. as electromotors go at present, and the
current I have spoken of, 1,000 amperes, is a large one.
Such a motor having such a current in the bars, and their
connections forming what we should call the armature
circuit, would, if the supply pressure were 100 volts
(a common figure for low-pressure supply), deliver about
230 h.p.. and consume energy at the rate of about 205
Board of Trade units per hour.*
There is no absolute limit to the force which this bar
eoald be caused to exert by increasing the strength of the
current flowing through it, and the intensity of the
magnetic field — for all practical purposes the limit of the
latter is reached at about double the intensity we have
assumed, or 20,000 units ; hut the current could be in-
creased ad lib., and the bar caused thereby to tear itself
from any supports that could be devised. But in practice
the force I have given — i.e., 2241b. — is, roughly speaking,
about tbe force which such a bar would be designed to
•xert in an economical motor when moderately loaded.
I will now aalc you to glance briefly at the two distinct
conditions under which energy of motion can be produced
by a bar or wire carrying an electric current in a magnetic
field. I have said that a conductor 39-37in., or one metre,
long, carrying 1,000 amperes in a magnetic field of 10,000
C.O-.S. units, would exert a force equal to about 2241b.,
which force would react upon the electromagnet producing
the magnetic field. If we allowed the bar to move at the
rate of 100ft. per minute, it would do work at tbe rate of
22*500 foot-pounds per minute, or about | h.p. ; and, if we
allowed it to move at 200ft per minute, it would do work
at the rat« of 44500 foot-pounds per minute, or IJ h.p.,
and so on ; while if it were fixed so as merely to exert a
static force, it would do no work at all. Taking the last
condition first — i.e., that in which the conductor is fixed—
the electric pressure or voltage required to produce 1,000
amperes through the bar, and which would have to be
supplied from the source from which the current was
denved, would be very small indeed, about 0025 volt, and
merely due to the inherent resistance of the bar to tbe flow
* The current In the armBiture conduclors of any two-pole
dynamo machine, whether as motor or Kenerator, is half the total
onrrent pauini;. Hence tbe motor wilE 1,000 amperes in \ta con-
dnotora wonld take a uital of 2,000 amperes, not reckoning the
tHuraat required lor sicitii^ the magneto, which might be about
fiOmnip«rm.
of the electric current. If now, however, we allowed the
bar to move, its own motion in the magnetic field would
create a back pressure against the supply current driving it,
consequently more pressure would have to be forthcoming
from tbe source of supply if the current of 1,000 amperes and
force of 2241b. were to be maintained. The inexorable law
of the conservation of energy is, of course, herein fulfilled.
The back pressure created in the conductor per unit of
length would be doubled if the velocity of the bar were to
be allowed to double, and would, in fact, be proportional to
the velocity. These are the conditions whicn obtain iu
what is known as the constant-current system ; in which
system the pressure of supply is automatically varied, so
as to keep the current constant under all normal demands.
The characteristic features with a constant current would
be : (1) The force acting on the bar would be independent
of the velocity at whicn it moved, and, in fact, would be
constant ; (2) the work done would be proportional to the
velocity at which the bar moved ; (3) the varying factor in
the supply would be the pressure or voltage.
The second condition is that under which a constant
pressure or voltage is maintained at the two ends of the
bar. instead of a constant current being maintained through
it, as in the first condition. The second is the condition
which most frequently obtains in practice. It is charac-
tnristic of the constant-pressure system, and this is tbe system
upon which electric energy ia almost always distributed for
lighting purposes, unless for arc lighting.
The electromagnet represented in Fig. 1 would be
adapted for the constant-current experiment, and would bs
termed by an electrician a " series " magnet. For the
hypothetical experiment we are now about to consider it
would be better to use a magnet such as is represented in
Fig. 2, Instead of the heavy copper coils, two bobbins are
Fio. 2.
represented upon the magnet limbs. If these bobbins were
wound with double-cotton covered high-conductivity copper
wire of No. II S.W.Q., and the ends connected one to
either terminal of a constant- pressure supply of 100 volta
pressure, the m^netic field produced in the air gap would
be approximately tbe same as that produced by the 17
turns of bar, with 1.000 amperes flowing through it, in
the first experiment. When an electromagnet is excited
by a small independent current caused by maintaining a
constant difierence of pressure between the two ends of
the exciting coils, it is called a "shunt" magnet; when by
passing the main or working current through its exciting
coils, it is termed a "series" magnei; and when bou
methods are used in conjunction, the magnet is said to be
"compounded."
To proceed now with our second hypothetical experi-
ment, using a shunt magnet, as represented in Fig. 2.
Under normal conditions, if the bar were stationary, there
would be no back pressure generated in it, and only the
inherent resistance of the metallic conductor would limit
the current which would flow if & difference of pressure
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8. 1892.
3^
100 X 30-48
- 60-8 centi-
*ere maintained between the two ondB. The back
CMUre which would be generated in our moUir
when moving at the rate of 100ft. per minute, in
» magnetic field of 10,000 C.G.S. unitB, would be
— = volts, where V is the velocity in ceatimetrea per
second. Ab 100ft. per minute =
metres per second. l-^^iiiM2^^2ll?^^iOil = 0508 volt;
108 X GO
Rnd the corollary of this is that if we maintain a difference
of electric pressure between the two ends a little in excess
of this, the bar would be propelled through the magnetic
field at the speed of 100ft. per minute. This would be a
difficult experiment to make just in this form, because the
l»r would get out of the magnetic field in such a short
time, but let us suppose that it could move a considerable
distance without getting out of the field. As I have said,
it would be propelled at the velocity of about 100ft. per
minute. Through a considerable range this velocity would
fee maintained nearly independently of friction or any
retarding force to which the bar might be subjected. This
is an important fact, and will repay examination.
The speed at which it would be propelled could not
exceed 100ft. per minute, because if it did the back
pressure generated in the bar would equal or exceed the
supply pressure — which we are assuming to remain constant
at '508 volt — and the result would be that the current
would vanish or become reversed, and with it the driving
force. Of course the bar might be forcibly held stationary,
but if this were done, and if the difference of pressure could
be maintained, which practically it could not, there would
be a current of about 20,000 amperea through the bar, and
it would exert a force of aomething like 2! tons. This
approximation to constant velocity with cons'tant pressure
is due to the great increase in the driving force, which a
etnall reduction in speed brings about. In a steam engine
A similar result is of course obtained by means of a
governor; but in a con slant- pi essure, or " shunt," motor
it is attained automatically.
To return to the bar with a constant difference of pres-
sure between its two ends of 508 volt. The electrical
resistance of the bar, if made of high conductivity copper,
would be exceedingly small— about -000025 ohm. Suppos-
ing it to be stationary in a magnetic field of 10,000 units,
and the constant pressure of -508 volt to be turned on.
If the bar were unobstructed it would appear to start off
instantly at the normal velocity of nearly 100ft. per
minute instead of gradually getting up speed, the reason
being that though the current would not have time to reach
the value of 20.000 amperea before the motion of the bar
bad materially reduced the active pressure by inducing back
pressure, yet the initial force would be so great as to prac-
tically amount to a blow, and would be so deftly adminis-
tered as to start it just at the speed mentioned, eo that the
bar would appear to start off instantaneously at the ultimate
speed of lOOft. per minute.
If we suppose the force required to drive the bar alone
against the friction of rubbing contacts, or whatever we
might devise to maintain the difference of pressure, to be,
Bay, 51b., the speed would be about ygth per cent below
what it would be if there were no friction ; again, the
driving force would incieaae at the rate of (roughly
speaking) 501b. for every 1 per cent, which the speed was
reduced by compelling the hur to do work.
It will fix ideas if we go through the simple calculation
of these results. The force of 5lb., which we assume is
required to drive the bar against the friction, would be
produced by a current of
c 1,000 = 22-2 amperes.
Tbe amount of pressure required to cause this current
through the bar is obtained by multiplying the current by
the inherent resistance of the bar which would be 000026
ohm. We have then :
22-2 X 000025 - 00056 volt.
•00065 volt is required to send the current of 232 amperes
through the bar. Now, equilibrium will only be possible
when the remaining -60715 volt of the supply pressure is
opposed by an equal back pressure, and the back pressure
is proportional to the velocity of the bar.
■508 -■00055= 507 45 volt;
and '50745 volt back pressure will be produced by a velocity
^■50745 ^ ioo = 99-80ft per minute, at which speed the
■50800 ^ ^
bar would run. If, now, we were to cause the bar to do
work at the rate of about, say, 20,000 foot-pounds pet
minute, the retarding force on the bar would be approxi-
matelv 2051b., or allowing a little extra for friction, say
207'51b. The current required to exert this force would be
?|I-^x 1,000-927 amperes.
927 X 000025 = -0235 volt,
which would be required to cause the current of 927
amperea to flow through the conductor. This gives us a
balance of 0'485 volt to be opposed by back pressure
^^ X 100 = 95-7ft. per minute.
To make the calculations strictly accurate, the rise of
temperature of the bar caused by the current, and the
disturbance which the current would cause in the magnetic
field, would have to be taken into account ; but the results
obtained are sufficiently near the truth for our purpose.
The characteristic features with the conatant pressure
would be : 1. The apeed of the bar would be maintained
nearly constant under normal loads. 2. The work done
would be proportional to the load. 3. The varying factor
in the supply would be the current,
(To be continued.)
AZORES CABLE.
The following despatch from tbe Tirnes Lisbon correspon
dent was refused tranamisaion by the Portuguese telegraph
authorities :
"Lisbon, March 31. The question of the cables from
Lisbon to the Acores and the United States is giving rise to
serious comment. It is openly stated that in non-fulfilling
the contract signed with the British company the Govern-
ment have committed a breach of faith, and that their
reason for so acting was fear that the French would refuse
to raise the loan mentioned in the proposals for tbe
payment of the coupon in two years if they did not suc-
ceed in obtaining the contract to lay the cables. Notwith-
standing that the Government have repudiated the contract
they signed, they still hold out hopes to the British company
of coming to an arrangement, I have reason to believe that
the company, in order to lose no time, and to satisfy the
demands of the Azorians, will immediately submit modified
termstoiheGovernmentandrequest a prompt solution of the
question. The proposals of the French comjiany for
laying the cables, which are published in the Diario do
Governo, do not contain advantageous terms. They are
brief and vague, and are only conspicuous for the statement
that in treating with them the Portuguese Government will
be relieved of the stipulations of articles 37 and 38 of the
contract with the British company prolonging the privileges
accorded on March 19, 1890, to the Eastern Telegraph
Company for 10 years. Not only waa the contract with the
British company signed by the Minister of Public Works, but
it was approved by the Parliamentary Committee appointed
to report on it, and had not the Oovernmeut pusillani-
mouaiy given way to the intervention of the French
Government, it would have been immediately voted by the
Cortes, as a large majority of the deputies were desirous of
settling the matter at once. I understand that the British
Government has been fully informed of the proceedings in
this matter."
Edinburgh Exhlbltloa. — At a meeting on Wednt«day
of the contributories of the Edinburgh Internitional Exhi-
bition of 1890, Mr. J. Robertson, the liquidator, stated
that tbe creditors would receive somsthinit tike 17<. 6d. in
the £, but that it was quite certain that tba pnuia-*«—
would get nothing.
^4^
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, Al>RlL 8, 1892.
nrr
THE
tLECTRICAL ENGINEER.
Published every Friday.
Priee Threepenee ; Post Free, Threepence Halfpenny.
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Notes 337
The Crystal Palace Exhibi-
tion 342
The Electric Motor : A Prac-
tical Description of the
Modem Dynamo Machine,
More Particularly as a
Motor 346
Azores Cable 347
"Earth" 348
Netting HiU 349
Correspondence 349
Dynamo- Electric Machinery 350
An Introduction to Qualita-
tive Chemical Analysis ... 353
Heating of Dynamos 354
Legal uitelligence 356
Companies' Meetings 358
New Companies Registered 359
Business Notes 359
Provisional Patents, 1892 ... 359
Specifications Published 360
Companies' Stock and Share
List 360
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"EARTH."
Till the trial of the Lane Fox case we thought we
understood the meaning of the term " eiarth/* but
when, in answer to Mr. Justice Smith on the very first
day of the trial, Prof. Perry stated that " earth "
" was the technical term for a return conductor, for a
return however obtained — metal return wires were
usually called earth'* — ^preconceived notions were
dispelled and chaos seemed nigh. When, further,
the various witnesses on one side supported this con-
tention, when some of the witnesses on the other
side half-heartedly admitted it might be so, and the
judge decided it was so, what could be said to the
contrary. Galileo was convinced, except in the
truthful aside, and we all know ** that a man con-
vinced against his will is of the same opinion still."
Therefore, though it must be argued that we are
legally convinced that " earth " in 1878 included
" metallic returns,*' we do outside legal bounds
remain equally convinced that the statement is
utterly wrong, and absolutely contrary to the true
flEkcts of the case. We contend that up to the year
1878 ** earth *' never included the idea of " metallic
return." On the contrary, its use excluded that
idea. Let us look a little closer into this
question. All the earlier telegraphic experiments
were carried on with frictional electricity, and the
earth was ''used as the return circuit*' (Sabine,
p. 35). The earlier experiments with voltaic elec-
tricity all included the metallic return. It was not
till Steinheil '' made the important discovery," that
it was known to electricians '' that the earth might
be used as part of the circuit of an electric current."
This discovery was admitted — we had almost said is
admitted — as "one of the greatest contributions ever
made to the progress of the telegraph . " As we have here-
tofore understood it, it was a great discovery because it
showed how to decrease the resistance of the circuit
and the cost of conductors. It was something better
than metal, and to be used instead of metal. From
the time of Steinheil down at any rate to 1878 —
we are emphatic upon the point—" earth " was a
term to indicate the soil of the globe as a something
that could be used in a telegraphic circuit itistead of
a return metallic wire. Up to the year 1878 a
thousand experiments were ceuried out in directions
telegraphic, to a hundred in any other direction ; but
we now come to one place wherein "earth " was used
in a peculiar manner, and in a manner which
gives some credibility to opinions contrary to those
we held — we hold. Experience in laboratory
working soon convinced a man that " good earth "
was not easily obtained — that is, good electric
contact was not easily made by connecting up with
the gas or water pipes, or by burying plates of metal.
Besides, " earth " was scarcely or never a requisite
iH laboratory work. Professors, lecturers, and
masters explained that in their experiments they
used a return wire instead of etuiih, and that
in actual practical work such a wire would
not be necessary, and would not be used, and
for shortness sake the laboratory return was called
" earth." We do not imagine that oney«tadent in a
million ever understood the laboratoil^ " earth " to
mean anything more than " we canij^t get earth
THE ELECTRICAL EKGlNEER, AtRlL 8, 1893.
349
without a deal of trouble ; therefore we rig up an
experiment to show results, though in actual
practice the earth — i.e., the soil, and the soil only —
would be used." There was not even a mental
reservation that it might, under some circum-
stances, include ** or equivalent metallic return."
The metallic return meant the metallic return,
and not a " wire return," or an " earth return."
** Earth," then, prior to 1878, according to every
book and periodical published, referred to something
superseding metal, something better than metal. Yet
because of its laboratory use for a makeshift return,
we are to hold in 1892 that electricians up to 1878,
when they used the term " earth," included the use
of ** metallic returns." Steinheil, Bain, Jacobi,
Matteucci, Arago, Wheatstone, and scores of other
eminent electricians, all wrote and spoke to prove
the "earth return" a better return than the** metal
return," and preferred the "earth " to the exclusion
of *• metal." If it was better, it could not be
equivalent. We should be surprised to hear even in
law courts an argument put forward that because a
patentee had discovered a better method of construct-
ing a pump than all previous inventors, that therefore
his apparatus included not only what he described,
but every material that might be substituted for any
part of it, even though the materials were worse for
the purpose than that described. Does' the claim
for the use of ** soft metal " for bearings cajry with
it the use of every other material not so good as
soft metal, because the shaft in the shop is run on
gumnetal bearings, or cast iron or steel? We hold,
then, that ** earth " always had a definite meaning,
and one not including metal in any shape or form.
"Earth," in fact, meant something ** not metal,"
the metal being used only to obtain contact. Unfor-
tunately, the legal fiat has gone forth, and henceforth
the legal fiction will be quotisd as fact — according to
which '* earth " is in future to mean ** soil " and
** insulated " and ** bare metal," all or either.
HOTTING HILL.
We suppose the report of the directors of this
company is about as unsatisfactory as any report ever
issued. There is evidently a lack of business
capacity about the board which it will be well if the
shareholders set about to remedy before it is too
late. Everything relating to the welfare of the
company is put in the most indefinite manner.
Comparisons are made with other and more flourish-
ing companies which are wholly beside the mark,
the wasteful expenditure is very large, and the
certain prospects of increased revenue unsatisfactory.
The directors hitherto seem to have been doing that
which they ought not to have done and leaving undone
that which they ought to have done ; in other words,
expensive mains have been laid where there is no
demand, and money is now wanted to lay mains
where there is a demand. More harm has been
done to electric lighting by such unbusiness-like
methods than is pleasant to contemplate. Before
large suma of money are expended there ought to be
some inditpation of a return for such expenditure.
Why, theti^, should £600 or £700 be expended in
running a main through a certain quarter
before ascertaining whether a single householder
would be likely to patronise the light? The
loss on seven months' working is admitted
at £617, but it is stated that a good deal
more current could be supplied with a very little
increase of expenditure. With this view we beg
leave to differ. It is perfectly certain that fael,
cartage, oil, stores, proportion of salaries, repairs,
and such like items will increase almost propor-
tionately with increased current, and a simple arith-
metical calculation will show the long lane this
company will have to traverse under present
conditions before much profit can be made. It
will be necessary to have an average of from 30,000
to 40,000 8-c.p. lamps on the circuit before the
shareholders can hope for a dividend upon the
existing capital, and if to obtain that number the
existing capital has to be increased, so much the
worse for the dividend.
CORRESPONDENCE.
' One man's word ii no man's word,
Joatica needs that both be heard."
THE LANE FOX CASK
Sir, — In the recent case of Lane Fox v, Kensington and
Knightsbridge Electric Light Company many of the
witnesses, expert and otherwise, stated and tried to show
that storage batteries do not regulate at all, or if they do,
only momentarily.
The following practical example may be of interest on
this point : Some years ago we were called in to advise as
to an electric light installation fitted in a lonely country
house in the South of Scotland. The dynamo was run
by an overshot waterwheel, but owing to the defective
construction of the wheel (the buckets of which were
too small and allowed the water to rush over until
the buckets filled again), about twice every minute the
wheel raced away, unless controlled by hand ; but on the
first night of using the light about 100 out of 150 lamps
were burned up, owing to this over-running, and the
dynamo machine broke down. It was tried again and again,
with like results, and the whole installation was a failure,
and was given up as a bad job, and not used for over a year.
We advised a set of storage batteries and an automatic
switch. The work was put into our hands, and we re-
arranged the whole system ; we also put in one of our own
dynamos, and from that day, over four years ago, the light
has been in daily use and has been a sreat success. The
fitting the storage cells at once cured the racing of the
wheel, and the light is absolutely steady, so much so that is
is not possible to say when it is being fed from the dynamo
coupled with the storage batteries, or the storage batteries
alone. Whilst charging, a fixed resistance is inserted between
the lamps and charging current, and when the dynamo is
switched off this resistance is automatically cut out, and
the light is run from the cells for many hours, and there is
no after regulation by switches.
This case appears to us to quite disprove the contention
that storage batteries do not regulate of themselves. —
Yours, etc., Henry F. Joel and Co.
London, E.C., April 6, 1892.
CRYSTAL PALACE ELECTRICAL EXHIBITION.
Sir, — If the Hedgehog really intends to go one better
and wipe the eve of the Sea Serpent he should be quick
about it, as it will soon be time for all hands to pack up
and clear out — Yours, etc, X.
P.S. — My wife says she saw a large red egg fomewbere,
and wondered whether the crane lata it
\
360
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRtL 8, 1892.
DYNAMO-ELECTBIC MACHINERY.*
BY J. IIOPKINSON, F.RS., AND E. WIISON.f
The following ie intended as completion of & paper by
Drs. J. and E. Hopkinson (Phil. Trans., 18H6, page
331). The motive is to verify by experiment theoretical
reaultft concerning the effect of the currents in the armature
of dynamo michines on the amount and distribution of the
magnetic Geld which were given in that paper, but which
were left without verification. For the sake of complete-
neas, part of the work is given over again.
The two dynamos experimented upon were constructed
by Messrs. Siemens Bros, and Co., and are identical, as far
as it is possible to make them. They are mounted upon a
common base-plate, their axles being cou|iled together, and
are referred to in this paper respectively as No. 1 and
No. 2.
Each dynamo ha? a single magnetic circuit consisting of
two vertical limbs extended at their lower extremities to
form the pole-pieces, and huving their upper extremities
connected by a yoke of rectangular section. Each limb,
logether with its pole-piece, is formed of a single forgin;;
of wrought iron. These forgings, as also that of the yoke,
are built up of hammered scrap iron, and afterwards care-
fully annealed. Gunmeta] castings bolted to the base-
plate of the machine supj>ort tbe magnets.
The magnetising coils on each limb consist of 16 layers
of copper wire 2 mm. diameter, making a total of 3,968
convolutions for each machine. The pole-pieces are bored
out to receive the armature, leaving a gap above and
below subtending an angle of 68deg. at tjie centre of
the shaft. The opposing surfaces of the gaparel'4cm.
dey).
The following table gives the leading dimensions of the
tnachiDe;
Length of iDBKnet limb BS'Ot
Width of magnet limb 11'43
Breadth of magnet limb 38'10
Length of yoke 38-10
Widtbof yoke 12-06
Depthof voke 11-43
DiatancB between oeotrea of limbs 33'50
Bore of fields 21-21
Depth of pole- piece 20-32
Thickness of giinmetal base lO'SO
Width of gap 12-M
The armature core is built up of soft iron discs, No. 24
B, W.G., which are held between two end-plates screwed on
tbe shaft.
The following table gives the leading dimeosionB of the
armature :
Diameter of core 18-41
Diameter of shaft 4-76
Length of core .; .'ffl-lO
The core is wound longitudinally, according to tbe
Hefner von Alteneck principle, with 308 bars made of
copper strip, each 9 mm. deep by 1*8 mm. thick. The
commutator is formed of 52 bard-drawn copper segments
insulated with mica, and the connections to the armature
so made that the plane of commutation in the commutator
is vertical when no current is passing through tbe armature.
Each dynamo is intended for a normal output of 80
amperes 140 volts, at 880 revolutions per minute. The
resistance of tbe armature measured between opposite bars
of the commutator is 0-042 ohm, and of each magnet coil
t3'3 ohms.
In the machine, the armature core has a greater cross-
■ection than the magnet cores, and consequently the magne-
tising force used therein may be neglected. The yoke has
the same section as the magnet cores, and is therefore
included therein, as is a,l8o the pole-piece. The formula
connecting the line integral of the magnetising force and
the induction takes tbe short form —
' Paper read before the Royul Society.
f It matt not be supposed from his name not appearing in thi"
short paper that my brother. Dr. E. Hopkinaon, had a minor part
in the earlier paper. He not only did the most laborious part
of the experimental work, but contributed his projier share to
whatever tbei-e may be oC merit in the theoretical port of the
'.^©•'
n is the number of turns round magnet.
c is the current round magnet in absolute measure.
L^ the distance from iron of armature to rim of magnet.
A. the coneoted area of field.
I the total induction through armature.
I., the moan length of lines of magnetic force in magneta.
A,, the area of section of magnets.
1' the ratio of induction in magnets to induction in
armature.
f the function which the magnetising force is of the
induction in the cose of tbe machine actually taken
from Dr. J. Hopkinson on the " Magnetisation of Iron,"
PkU, Trans., 1885, Figs. 4 and 5, Plate 17,
In estimating A.j we take the mean of tbe diameter of
the core and of the bore of the magnets 19'8 cm., and the
angle subtended by the pole-face 112dBg,, and we add a
fringe all round the area of the pole-face equal in width to
the distance of the core from the pole-fuce. This is a
wider fringe than was used in the earlier experiments
{PkU. Trans., p. 337), because the formof themagnetadiffer
slightly. The area, so estimated, is 906 sq. cm.
/^ is taken to be 108-8 cm.
A^ is 435-5 sq, cm.
V was determined by tbe ballistic galvanometer to be
147. It is to be expected that, as the core is actually
greater in area than the magnets, 1- will be more nearly
constant than in the earlier experiments. It was found to
be constant within the limits of errors of observation.
Kefeiring to Diagram 1, the curve, C, is tbe c
/ f'-^), and the straight line, B, is the curved; =
•> l^ y whilst the full lint
of the machine —
I the characteristic curve
-''i-'-/(i!>
OB given by calculation.
The marks -v indicate the results of actual observations
on machine No. I, and the marks 0 tbe results on machine
No. 2, tbe total induction, I, being given by the equation :
T _ potential difference in volts y 10*
208 y revolutions per second
Experiments made upon the power taken to drive the
machine under different conditions show that it takes about
260 watts more power to turn the armature iit 660 revolu-
tions when tbe magnets are normally excited than when
they are not excited at all. The volume of the core is
9,465 cubic centimetres, or in each complete cycle the
cubic ceiitimeti^ is,' -- "V-i^ = 24,000 ergs.
II
9,465
The loss by hysteresis is about 13,000 {i7ii/. Tz-ajw., 1885,
p. 463) if the reversals are made by variation of intensity
of the magnetising force, and the iron is good wrought
iron. This result is similar to that in the earlier paper
(p. 352), where it is shown that the actual loss in the core,
when magnetised, is greater than can be accounted for by
the known value of hysteresis.
Effeds of llie Current in tite Armature. — Quoting from the
Roval Society paper, p. 342, " The currents in the fixed
coils around tbe magnets are not the only magnetising
forces applied in a dynamo machine ; the currents iu the
moving coils of tbe armature have also their effect on the
resultant field. There are, in general, two independent
variables in a dynamo machine— the current around the
magnets and the cui-rant in the armature — and the relation
of E.M.F. to currents is fully represented by a surface.
In well-constructed machines the effect of the latter is
reduced toa minimum, but it can be by no means neglected.
When a section of the armature coils is comiauUitod it
must inevitably be momentarily short- circuita
the time of commutation tbe field in which t
fPMt. r7t»w., p. 336.
uitedf, and, if at
:b ^e section is
/
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8, 1892.
351
moTiog is other than feeble, a considerable current will
arise in that section, accompanied by waste of power and
deBtructive sparking.
"Suppose the commutation occurs at an angle \ in
advance of the symmetrical position between the fields,
and that the total current through the armature be C,
reckoned positive in the direction of the resultant E.M.F.
of the machine — i.e., positive when the machine is used
as a generator of electricity. Taking any closed line
through magneta and armature, symmetrically drawn as
A B C D E F A, it is obvious that the line integral of mag-
Detic force is diminished by the current in the armature
included between angle A in front and angle X. behind the
plane of symmetry. If m be the number of convolutions
of the armature, the value of this magnetising force is
IffC — — ^ — 4 A m C opposed to the magnetising force of
the fixed coils on the magnets. Thus, if we know the lead
of the brushes and the current in Uie armature we are at
once in a position to calculate the efTect of the E.M,F. of
the machine. A further efTect of the current in the arma-
ture is a material disturbance of the distribution of the
induction over the bored face of the pole-piece. The force
along BCisfay no means equal to that along D E. Draw
difference of the main brushes, and the speed of the
machine being also noted.
The results are given in Diagrams 2, 3, 4, and 5, in which
the ordinatee are measured potential differences, and the
abscissse are angles turned through by the exploring brushes.
The potential differences in Diagram 2 were measured
by a Siemens voltmeter, and each ordinate is therefore
somewhat smaller than the true value, owing to the time
during which the exploring hruahes were not actually in
contact with the commutator segments. Bnt this does not
affect the results, because the area is reduced in the same
proportion as ihe potential differences. In Diagrams 3, 4,
and 5, the potential differences were taken on one of Sir
William Thomson's quadrant electrometers, and are correct.
Take Diagram 2 in which machine No. 1 is a generator. A
centimetre horizontalIyrepreBentlOdeg.oflead,and theordi-
nates represent differences of potential between the brushes.
The area of the curve is 61*3 sq. cm., and represents 130
volta and a toUl field of ~ ^ — ^ 10»-4-31 x 10« lines
of induction. This is, of course, not the actual field, which
is 3 per cent, greater on account of the reeistance of the
armature, but is represented by an area 3 per cent, greater.
An ordinate of 1 cm. will represent an induction of x
I0^=^70x 10* linesin lOdeg. The area of lOdeg. is 39-6
X 1'73 = G8'3 aq. cm.* Hence, an ordinate of 1 cm. repre-
sents an induction of 1,024 lines per square centimetre. The
difference between ordinates at SOdeg. and 140deg. is 2'S ;
hence the difference of inductiou is actually 2,560. Theo-
the closed curve, B C G H B, the line integral along C Q,
and H B is negligible. Hence, the difference between
force H G and B C is equal to4irC — -"2 KfnC, where
K U the angle C 0 O."
To verify this formula is one of the principal objects of
this paper.
A pair of brushes having relatively fixed positions near
together, and insulated from the frame and from one
another, are carried upon a divided circle, and bear upon
the commutator. Tbe difference of potential between
these brushes was measured in various positions round the
commutator, the current in the armature, the potential
retically, we have « — J w m = 104 0 = 9-4. Therefore,
2 K m C = 3,072, and this is the line integral of magnetising
force round curve.
Let A be the induction at 50deg. and A-fS at 140deg.;
these also are the magnetising forces. Hence, (A + S) 1-4
- A 1-4 = 2 K m C ; 2= 2,200 as against 3,660 actually
observed.
Take Diagram 3, in which No. 2 machine is a motor. The
107 ■
total field =
104 30
<_Lxl0* = 5-15xlO< lines of induction.
353
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8, 1892.
Since the area of the diagntm is 33 5 aq. cm., an ordiaate
of 1 cm. = £i|- X 10« = 96 X 10* lines of induction in
ft3u
lOdeg. Hence, an ordinate of 1 cm. represents an induc-
tion of — — — — = 1,400 lines per square centimetre. The
difierence between ordinates at 330deg. and at 230deg. is
20 ; hence the difference of induction is actually 2,800.
Th«,r.ti»lly,.. t.„2'»C.3?-104xll4 _ 5555
as against 2,800 actually observed.
In Diagram No. 4, No. 1 machine is a generator. The
total field = ^^x-
104 1
of the digram is 9(
lcm.=gL7xlC
90-9
X 108-3-97 X 10" lines. The area
:j. cm., and therefore an onlinate of
4-37 X 10^ lines in lOdeg. Hence,
4-37 X 10^
68 3
an ordinate of 1 cm. represents an induction of
= 639 lines per square centimetre. The difference between
ordinatesatSOdeg.andat 140dog.iB4-5; hence, the difference
of induction is actually 2,787. Theoretically, we have "*
In Diagram No. 6, No. 2 machine is a, motor. The total
- ^ X A^ X 108 = 4-96 X 10« lines. The area of
104 12-3
the diagram is 112*2 sq. cm., and therefore an ordinate
of 1 cm. = ^^ X 10< = 4-42 x 10* lines in lOdeg.
Hence, an ordinate of 1 cm. represents an induction of
— — X 10* = 647 lines per square centimetre.. The difference
between ordinates at 323deg, and at 233deg. is 4-2 ; hence,the
difference of induction is actually 2,716. Theoretically,
- nC 31 X 104 X 123 „ o,„
- ' . =• 2,870, as against
field -
we have -
/
14
2,718 actually observed.
A.tpage346of thepajieron "Dyi
it is shown that
i + i:
i 4 A m C ^-
2L
Electric Mnchinery '
= F(4
where I = F (4 t n c) is the characteristic curve when
G = 0, and A is the lead of the brushes.
The following is an endeavour to verify this formula
The potentials both upon the magnets and upon the brushes
were taken by a Siemens voltmeter, and are rough. The
speeds were taken by a Buss tachometer, and there is some
uncertainty about the precise lead of the brushes, owing to
the difficulty in determining the precise position of the
symmetrical position between the fields, and also to the
width of the contacts on the commutator.
It was necessary, in order to obtain a marked effect of
the armature reaction, that the magnet field should be com-
Kratively small, that the current in the armature should
Urge, and the leads of the brushes should be large.
The two machines hod their axles coupled so that No. 1
could be run as a generator, and No. 2 as a motor. The
magnets were in each case coupled parallel, and excited t^
a battery each through an adjusUble resistance. The two
armatures were coupled in series with another battery and
the following observations were made :
PolcDtial Potential Speed Currant Lexd
on magneta oa per in of
in v^ta. brushes. miout«. amperes, bmabea.
No. I ... 24— -24 ... 88—67 ... 880 ... 102— IM ... ST
No. 2 ... 29—29 ... 86— M ... S80 ... 102-103 ... 29*
From which we infer :
Corrected potential >[iot«l
No. 2 2-15 10,750 807 2-65 x 1(C
As there was uncertainty as to the precise accuracy
of the measurements of potential, it appeared best to
remeasure the potentials with no current through the arma-
ture with the Siemens voltmeter placed as in the last
experiment. E^cb machine was therefore run on open
circuit with its magnets excited, and its potential was
measured.
Potential Potenti&l Speed Potential
in v^tH. brushes. minute. 880 revs.
From which we infer, since we are upon a part of the
characteristic which is practically straight ; in which case,
of course, the formula is reduced very nearly to
«!■■■— ——■»■■
Potential oi
No. 1
24
No. 2
We have further :
A = 0-45 for No. 1. A = 0-5 for No. 2
* "L5 = 2,920 "-^^ 4 wi C ^/ - 443,800.
It has already appeared that experiment gives for I in
No. 1 2-3 X 10«, and in No. 2 265 x 10». The diffbrence
is probably due to error in estimating the lead of the
brushes, which is difficult, owing to uncertainty in tb^
position of the neutral line on open circuit.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8, 1892. 353
-
4XmC
4i4>„cA
4.n.-"'"<^.
F(4,»e-t^).
Tiinnc-'^l^) -iziiXmC^.
No. 1
So. 2
1,814
1,460
199,700
221,«00
7,586
9,290
2-41 >; 10"
2-90XIO'
2-21 X 10*
2-68 X 10"
AN IMTBODDCTION TO QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL
ANALYSIS.
BY BARKBB NORTH, ASSOC.R.C.Sti. (LOND.),
Joint AotboT of " latroductory Lessons " and " Hand-book
of Quantitative Analysis."
fVMtinwd from page 3S7. )
How to Make a Wask4xAtUi.
A luge Huk is taken which holds about one litre, and a
woodan cork, which scarcely goes into the neck, ia softened
by nblHng ftently under the sole of the foot till it fiU
tightly io:tbe neck of the flask- The tubing to be used
(about lin.) ia now chosen, and two holes are bored in the
cork, « the same diameter as the glass tube. A piece of
tnbiuft about t>in. or Sin. longer than the height of the flask,
is cat ofi, and bent in the fish-tail burner about Sin. from
oneend toanacutflatiele,asBbowninFig. 10. Another piece
of tubing, about half tne length of the previoua one, is bent
to an obtuse angle, so that the latter and the acute angle
jtist nuke up ISOdeg. A short bit of glass tubing, about
Sin. long, is drawn out in the middle, as shown at a, and
cat into two pieces, one portion serving as a fine jet by
being attached to the long bent tube by means of caont-
chotie tubing. The sharp edges of all the tubes are fused
ap by htjding in the Buoeen flame a few minutes, and the
two bent pieces are introduced through the boles in the
cork, wfaiui is afterwards fitted into the flask, and so gives
ufl a wod-botUe as shown in Fig. 10. A layer of thick cord
may alto be wrapped round uie neck of the bottle for
homing it in tbe hand when the water is boiling.
Wathing the Precipitate.
In wiahing a precipitate, the jet of water should be
directed round the top of the paper, so as to wash all the
precipitate down into the bottom of the cone, and the water
must never come above the edge of the paper, otherwise
some of the precipitate will find its way down between the
Kper and the glass into the filtrate. Each washing should
allowed to drain off before filling up again with water.
Experiment 25. — Filter off the lead chloride obtained in
Experiment 20, and wash several times with cdd water.
The precipitate mav then be dried and preserved for future
use in a bottle marked " Pure lead chloride."
Hoa to Detach a Wet Precipitate from the Filter.
It will often be necessary to remove a precipitate from
the paper on which it has been collected and washed, for
the purpose of dissolving so as to apply further teats of
indentification. There are many ways of doing this, which
should be used discriminately according to the amount of
the precipitate and the method by which it ia proposed to
treat it ; thus, if there is a large quantity of precipitate a
portion may be scraped off by means of a bone apatula or
knife, whereas if the quantity of the precipitate is too small
to treat iu this manner, a hole may be made in the bottom
of the pa[>er by means of a pencil point or glass rod, and
tbo precipitate then washed down into a test-tube or beaker
by means of a jet of distilled water from the wash-bottle.
Anotber method of doing this, instead of bursting the filter-
paper, is to hold the funnel and paper inverted over a dean
dish or beaker, and, by directing a jet of water on to the
precipitate, thus wash the latter off the paper in the stream
of water into the dish. Whan, however, it is desirable to
prevent the precipitate from being mixed with water, the
paper should be taken out of the funnel, opened out, and
as much as posaible of the precipitate carefully scraped off.
Itri/iny Preeipilal'-x.
The student will aometimea have occaaion to dry a pre-
cipitate after it baa been thoroughly washed, especially if
the precipitate has to be afterwards ignited. If a steam-
drying oven is not in the list of apparatus at his command,
the precipitate may be dried by the arrangement ahown in
Fig. II. This merely conaiats of a tin can, about 4in. high,
with one end knocked out and a circular hole cut in the
other, so as to carry the funnel. Tbis ia supported during
the drying operation on wire gauze over a Buusen burner
burning with a very small flame, so as not to bum this
Fio. 12.
paper. By this means a precipitate may be dried much
more quickly than in a ateam oven, and for qualitative
purposea quite a a well.
Ignition.
The procesa of ignition ia one which will have to be per-
formed at timea, and conaiats in subjecting the aubstance to
be ignited to a very high temperature in a crucible or other
convenient vessel. For this purpose the ordinary mouth
blow-pipe may be uaed, but the proceas may be completed
much more quickly by uaing the foot blow-pipe.
The Fool Blom-pipe.
In order to obtain a high temperature aucfa as a white
beat, a foot blow-pipe, auch as is shown in Fig. 12, ia indis-
pensable. It conaiats of an ordinary bellowa. A, worked
with the foot, from which the air is forced into a reservoir,
B, made out of an elastic bag covered with a net, which
gradually forces the air through the aperture, G, in a
constant stream into the air-pipe of the burner, D. In this
it mixea with the gaa, and givea a constant stnady flame,
which can be regulated by the two taps in the air and gas
pipes respectively.
Erperiment 36. — Prepare some cyanide of silver by
adding silver nitrate to potassium cyanide in solution
till a permanent precipitate is obtained. Filter off, wash
well, and after drying ignite the ailver cyanide in a porce-
lain crucible over the blowpipe flame. The resulting
substance will be found to be pure silver, which has been
formed by the decomposition of the silver cyanide, and may
be dissolved in warm dilute nitric acid.
Erperiment 27. — Heat a little carbonate of lime or
powdered chalk in the blow-pipe flame to a white heat for
3S4
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8, 1892.
■evenl minutes in a small boat made out of platioum foil.
Obaerrs that after beating the cbalk loses its property of
eflerveacing wben put into acid, as it has been converted
from carbonate of lime to oxide of lime, thus: CaCOj=:
CaO + COy
Distillation.
It will be also veil for the student to gain a little
manipulation in distillation, and this may conveniently be
done here in making distilled water. In making an
analysie ordinary water should never be used, on account
of the large amount of lime which it geiierally contains,
and which would only confuse the student in some cases as
to whether lima was present or not The apparatus for
the purpose of distillation baa been simplified as much as
poesible, so as to come within the reach of those who are
not able to provide themselves with the expensive stills
usually sold for making distjlled water.
How to Make Diitaied JFater.
Ei^>erimirU 28. — The apparatus used for making distilled
water is shown in Fig. 13, and may be fitted up according
to the following description : A large flask. A, about 32
ounces capacity, is chosen, and furnished with a well-fitting
cork, tbrougfa which passes the stout piece of bent tubing,
B. lie latter enters a slightly wider tube, C, for a short
distance, and is fastened into it by means of a piece of
caoutchouc tubing, D. A wide tube, E, fitted with two
corks, through which the tube C passes, serves as a cold-
water jacket for tfae latter tube, a constant stream of cold
water being supplied through a small delivery tube in the
bottom cork, and carried away again by means of a small
glass tube passing through the upper cork. The water
in the flask is kept boiling, and the steam in passing down
the central tube is condensed, and the water collected in a
bottle pUced at the bottom to receive it.
DistaUUiaii of Alcohol.
E::g>erimeni 29. — Alcohol may also be distilled in the same
way, if necessary, and can be obtained from beer or spirits
by distilling them in this apparatus. The alcohol, however,
will in this case be mixed with more or less water, and
in order to separate them the distillate will have to be sub-
mitted to fractional distillation.
Fraclionai Disliilalion.
In order to do this, a T-tube, A, Fig, 14, known as the
F«i. U.
diitilling-tube, will be required so as to be able to introduce
a thermometer, B, for indicating the temperature of the
distilling vapour.
Bow to Make a Distiiling-titbe.
A piece of soft glass tubing, about Tin. long and ^in.
wide, is taken and one end tightly corked up. A small
bulb, a. Fig. 15, is blown on one side by directing a small
flame from the blow-pipe to a point about half-way up the
tube till the glass is quite soft, and then blowing gently
into the uncorked end. On the end of another piece of
■oft tubing, b, ^in. in diameter and about 7in. long, a
imall bulb is similarly blown. The open end of the inder
tube, a, is now tightly corked and the two bulbs broken, so
that their edges, when fused up, will fit together, as shown
at c A very small flame of the blow-pipe is now directed
to the two fused edges of the tubes, and by melting a small
portion of the fused surface at a time so as to completely
fuse the two together at that spot, the two surfaces may
ultimately be fused so as to form one tube. Whenever the
melted gUss shows signs of collapsing, the operator must
blow gently through the tube, b, but the juuction should
not be allowed to cool till the end of tfae operation, othw
wise it will be very liable to crack.
When the distilling-tube, d, is made, it may be anneilad
by cooling slowly in the flame and then wrapping in cotton-
wool, and in order to obviate as much risk as possible of
this tube cracking, the two pieces of glass tubing should
be made of similar glass so as to have the same coefficient
of expansion.
Fractional Disliilalion of Alcohol and Wala:
Exptriment 30. — Alcohol boils ai ?8deg. C, and water at
lOOdeg., but in distilling a mixture of the two the thermo-
meter will gradually rise from 78deg. to lOOdeg. C. while
the distillation is going on. That part distilling off at
about 78deg. C. will be the richest in alcohol, at about
90deg. C. we shall obtain approximately equal amount* of
alcohol and water, and the fraction at lOOdeg. C. will coDtaiu
the most water. In the fractional distillation of alcohol and
water we collect the distillate in several fractions ; thua, in
this case we might collect that coming over from 78deg. to
83deg., 83deg. to 88deg., 88deg. to 93deg., 93deg. to
96deg., and 98deg. to lOOdeg. G. in five separatfi flasks.
When the whole of the liquid has distilled over, the first
fraction, 7Sdeg. to 83deg. C, is poured back into the clean
flask and the distillation recommenced. The distillate ia
collected in the same flask as before, but the fraction dis-
tilling over between these two limits, 78deg. and 63deg.,
will contain more alcohol than in the first distillation, and
some liquid will therefore remain in the flask. The second
fraction is now added to this and again distilled. We shall
now find some of this pnsaing over between the first limit,
78deg. to 83deg., and this is collected in the first flask, but
when 83deg. C. is reached the flask is replaced by the second
one, which is empty, and the distillation carried on till we
arrive at the upper limit of the second fraction — vie.,
88deg. C. To the liquid remaining in the flask is now
added the third fraction and the distillation carried on as
before, taking care to collect the separate fractions always
in their proper flasks. In this manner we shall continually
add to the first and last fractions, and it will be noticed
that the liquid is separating into two portions and collect-
ing round the boiling points of alcohol and water. By
repeating the fractional distillation a few times, we may
ultimately obtain two fractions boiling fairly constaqtly at
7Sdeg. C. and lOOdeg. C, but it is impossible to absolutely
separate alcohol and water by this means, though with moat
liquids a perfect division can be thus effected.
Other liquids may be separated in this way, the number
of degrees between the limits of the fractions being deter-
mined by the character of the mixed liquids.
Alcohol may also be prepared from ordinary mothylat«d
spirit, which is 90 per cent alcohol with 10 per cent wood
spirit, by shaking with dry potassium carbonate and dia-
tilliog, as shown in Fig. 13. Methyl&ted spirit is gener^y
used in analysis, bat if it leaves a residue on evaporation it
should be previously distilled.
Boiling F<nnt of a Liyiiid,
The boiling point of a liquid may also be determined by
the above apparatus. Fig. 14, but in very accurate cases a
correction will have to be made for the expansion of the
glass and for that part of the stem which is not immersed
in the vapour.
(To be continued.)
HEATING OF DYNAMOS.
The radiation of heat from the surface of dynamos is
treated by M. W. C. Kechniewski in L'Eltciricien for
March 26. A dynamo, be says, is not like a gas or steam
engine. The output from these motors is strictly limited,
whereas a dynamo does not refuse the load above its normal,
but simply heats until it burns up — that is, melts the insu-
lation and produces a short circuit In point of fact, what
limits the output of most dynamos is the heating of the
armature and magnets, and the capacity can usually be
increased 20 or 30 per cent by ventilating the armature.
In most specifications the heating is required not to exceed
30deg. C. over that of the air, which appears sufficient,
though 50deg. C. does not present danger. The qneitioo
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8, 189-2.
355
of heatinf; is therefore important, and as every maker of
dynamos has to face this question, it is astonishing that no
treatment of the problem has been published giving, for
instance, the number of square centimetres of cooling
surface allowed in the armature per watt of energy trans-
formed into heat in its interior. This is more necessary,
as experiments show that the constant varies from 1 up
to 3, according to the geometrical form of the armature.
For certain shapes 8 sq. cm. per watt is required, while for
others 3 sq. cm. per watt is sufficient.
The work expended in the armature is thus calculated :
1. Work of current in wire = Vc p 8^, where Ye is total
volume of copper on armature ; p is specific resistance of
copper, 1*6 X 10-^ ; 8, density of current per square cm.
2. Work of hysteresis = V» N o-, where Vi is volume of
iron in armature, subject to change of magnetism; N,
number of complete cycles per second ; o-, work of hysteresis
per cm. cube and complete cycle. This latter depends
naturally on intensity of magnetisation ; it is taken in
these experiments that it is proportional to the flux per
cm. square, and that for a flux of 10,000 per cm.^ it is equal
to 10,000 ergs per cm.^ and complete cycle. Experiment
shows f hat it is sufficiently exact ; Foucault currents are
negligible, and the two sources of heat necessary to con-
sider are those of resistance and hysteresis. This study
takes into account only cases where the cooling surface of
the armature is of greater importance than that of the field
magnets. The trials lasted until the dynamo attainc<l the
required limit of temperature, determined each time by
preparatory tests.
Drum Armatures. — Dynamo of 3,300 imtts : Volume
of iron discs Vt = 1,100 cm.^, of copper Vc = 440 cm.^ ;
density of current, 8 = 500 A. per cm.^ ; speed 1,656 revolu-
tions, whence N = 26; flux in armature 17,000 units,
whence o-= 17,000 ergs [1*7 x 10-»].
The work A P transformed into heat in armature was
therefore :
A P = Vc p S--^ + Vi N (T.
AP« 440 X 1-6 X 10 «x 5002+ 1,100 x 26 x 17 x 10-«.
AP= 88 4- 48 = 136 watts.
The cooling surface may be calculated as follows :
Surface of drum (20 cm. long x 12 cm. diam.) =720 cm.^
„ two caps =230 „
Total cooling surface =950 cm.^
The machine was run 24 hourt<, sufficient for the steady
temperature of small machines to be attained as found by
previous trials.
At the end of this time it was found : Temperature of
exterior, 13deg. 0. ; of armature, 64deg. C. ; excess of
950
temperature, A t = 51deg. And we have — — - ^7 cm.^ of
136
cooling surface per watt expended interioily as heat, the
elevation of temperature being 51deg. C. For the
increase of temperature not to exceed 50aeg., the cooling
surface should have been — . x 7= 7 14 cm.^ per watt.
50
2. Dynanio of 5,750 wattSj 850 revs, — In this machine
V, = 3,200 cm.«, Vc = 1,100 cm.^ 8 = 330 A. per cm.^,
N = 14, o-= 1-7 X 10-».
Work transformed into heat :
AP = Vcp82 + V.Ncr
= 1,100 X 1-6 X 10 ** X 330^ + 3,200 x 14 x 1-7
X 10-3 =193 4. 76 = 269 watte.
Surface of drum (/ = 27 cm., d = 175 cm. = 1,450 cm'-*.
„ „ caps = 550 cm''*.
Total cooling surface = 2,000 cm^
After 2J hours' working the t exterior was = 7deg. C,
of armature = 53deg. Excess A ^ = 46deg. In this case
2 000
* =x 7-4 cm.2 per watt For excess of 60deg. it would
46
be sufficient to have 5Q x 7 4 = 6'9 cm*.
3. Dynamo(B^^)of 26,000 waits, working at 200 A. and 79 V.
at 590 revolutions as motor. Vi = 10,980 cm^., Vc =2,880
cm.3, 8 = 329, N = 10, flux as before 17 x 10 ». Work
comes to 683 watte. Surface {I » 42 cm., d = 27 cm.)
3,400 + caps 1,840 = 5,240 cm.*. After four hours, /
exterior 12deg., t of armature 61deg., excess 49deg. We
5,240
have ggQ = 7*65 cm.* per watt. For heating of 50deg.
49
it would be gQ X 7*65 = o- 7*5 cm.* of cooling surface.
Dynamo (R15) as above, with interior ventilation : 110 V.,
300 A., 960 revolutions. V* = 9,150, Vc = 3,072, 8 = 470.
960
Cycles N =-gg-= 16. Flux as before. Work expended
= 1,332 watts. Surface as before. Ran for three hours,
at end of which : t exterior 13deg., t of armature 67deg.,
5,240
excess of t 54deg. Whence yo«o = 3*93 cm.* of exterior
cooling surface per watt. For a heating of 50deg. we
54
should require — x 3*93 = 4*25* per watt. In this case
the interior ventilation has increased the capacity of the
7.5
armature = 1*76 — i.e., 76 per cent.
4-25 ^
1. Di/fiamo of MancJtesier type, ring armature, 18,000
watte, 240 A, 70 V., at 1,000 revolutions. In this machine
we have :
Ve = 12,300, Vc = 2,466, 6 = 350, N = L22? =, 17,
60
flux « 1-7 X 10 ^
Work expended in heating 485 + 324 = 829 watte. The
armature was closed at one end by a metal plate, the
cooling of exterior and two lateral surfaces only could be
reckoned.
Surface {/ = 27,(^ = 36 cm.) = 2,970 cm.*
„ lateral - 1,880 „
Total surface
= 4,850 cm.*
After four hours running : t exterior 16deg., t of armature
65deg., excess of t 49deg. Hence,
-?—- - = 5*85 cm.*- per watt.
829 ^
For a heating of 50deg., we should have :
49
X 5*85 = 5*73 era.* of cooling surface per watt.
50
5. Dynanw, eight-pole type, 36,000 tuatts. From the draw-
ing the surface was calculated as follows :
Exterior surface of armature = 26 x tt x 50 = 3,900 cm^
Interior „ „ „ = 26 x tt x 25 = 1,950 „
Two lateral surfaces = 1,590 „
Total cooling surface 7,440 cm.*
This machine is well ventilated at all parte, air entering
easily round the shaft and escaping between the wires
leading current to commutetor. In this machine we have
V, = 12,700 cm.^Vc = 5,040 cm.^. Flux in iron armature
was 10,000 per cm.*, whence o- = TTrinr- Three teste were
made with this machine.
A {First test).— Three hours' running at 120 V., 330 A., 690
revs., we then had : density of current 8 = 300 A. Cycles
per sec. N = - x 4 = 46. Work expended in armature was
therefore : A P = Vc /^ ^--^ 4- V. N o-.
= 5,040 X 1-6 X 10-<J X 330* 4- 12,700 x 46 x y^.
= 1,060 + 590 =1,650 wat^s.
7 440
There was, therefore, .-^^^ = 4*5 cm.* of cooling surface per
watt transformed into heat in the armature. At the end of
three hours : t exterior • 15deg., t of armature. >= 51*5deg.,
356
TflE ElLElCTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8, 1892.
excess A / = 36*5deg. Therefore, for an excess of 50deg.,
50
it would have sufficed to have x 4*5 = 3 '3 cm^. of
36-5
cooling surface per watt.
B (Second test). — Three hours of running 490 revolutions,
75 volts, and 400 amperes. Under these conditions : 8 — 400,
N = ^x 4 = 32. So that
60
A P = 5,040 X 1-6 X 10-« X 400- f 12,700 x 32 x igVir
= 1,290 4- 420= 1,710 watU
7 440
or -1- — = 4*35 cin.2 per watt expended.
1,710 ^ *
At the end of three hours we hiid : / exterior ISdeg.,
of armature 59deg., excess 11 dog. For a heating of
50
50deg. we should have : — x 4*35 = 3*56 cm.^ per watt.
C (Third test), — Four hour«j' running at 500 revolutions,
79 volts, 300 amperes. Under these conditions S = 300^
N = ^x4^33.
60
= 5,040 X 1-6 X 10^' X 3003 + 12,700 x 33 x ^^Vir
= 726 + 420 = 1,146 watts.
We had, therefore.
7,440
1,146
= 6'5 cm.- per watt.
At the end of four hours' run we had : t exterior
15deg., t of armature 42'ieg., excess 27deg. For a heating
of 50deg. we should have :
27
-rr X 6*5 = 3*51 cm.'^ of cooling surface per watt.
50
The comparison of this with R^^ is particularly instruc-
tive, the power of these machines being much the same.
The open form of the multipolar ring results, not only in
the utilisation of the interior surface for cooling, which
would reduce the total dimensions, but the circulation of
the air renders each square centimetre twice as effective as
the drum form. The variation of peripheral speed does
not play an important part in the cooling power, at least
at the speeds tested.
This latter result must only be accepted within the limits
of the tests, as it is evident that an armature revolving
lapidly by reason of the ventilation it excites, is capable of
losing more heat for the same excess of temperature than
an armature at rest. As demonstration of this fact, a
well-known fact may be cited. The temperature of an
armature is generally higher 10 minutes after stoppage
than at the moment of stoppage ; the contact of the hand
is sufficient to observe this fact, which can only be explained
by supposing the armature loses less heat per unit of time
when at rest than when in motion.
LEGAL INTELLIGENCE.
ANGLO-AMERICAN BRUSH ELECTRIC LIGHT CORPORA-
TION V, KING, BROWN, AND CO.
The Compound-Windinsr Patent.
This appeal from a decision of the Scotch Court of Session,
which involved a very important question with regard to patent
machinery for generating electricity for electric lighting and
other purposes, came before the Lord Chancellor, Lord Watson,
Lord Herschell, Lord Macnaghten, and Lord Field, in the House
of Lords, on Tuesday. The case was argued on behalf of the
appellants last year, when judgment was reserved. Their Lord-
ships now delivered juderment affirming the decision of the Scotch
Courts and pronouncing against the validity of the patent.
The Lord CbanoeUor : This is an appeal against an interlocutor
of the First Division of the Court of Session affirming the inter-
locutor of the Lord Ordinary, setting aside the patent, of which
the appellants are the assignees, on the ground Uiat the portion
of the invention patented, with which, under the circumstances,
it is alone material to deal, had been previously published. The
patent so set aside is known as Brush's patent, and bears date
the 16th of November, 1878, and the question in debate is
whether a patent taken out by Mr. Samuel Alfred Varley in 1876
does or does not so anticipate the patent of 1878, of which the
appellants are the assignees, as to make the latter patent bad.
The patent has relation to the particular form of dynaiiio-eleotrfe
machines, all of which have, and were known to haye before the
date of either patent, this principle in common— that they move
magnets past coils of wire or coils past magnets with wifficient
velocity to produce the desired result. It was also familiar knorw-
ledge before the date of either patent that a current of eleotricity
sent round a bar of soft iron would render the bar of iron magpetic.
Undoubtedly, the progress of electrical science has given rise to
various forms of using that energy in which the two principleB to
which I have adverted have become important, and tlie pnctioal
application of them by means of different mechanical devices has for
some time past exercised the ingenuity of practical electridans. One
appears to nave been the idea of making one wire go round the iron
bar, make it and maintain it as a magnet, making the same wire go to
perform whatever work it was intended to perform, and returning
to the magnet, and thus the single current doing two things. The
further step was made when what was called the shunt apparatos
was invented. The current of electricity was divided into twa
One stream, so to speak, was made to go round the iron bar,
keeping it magnetic, while the other was led to do the work which
it was required to do, and were rejoined after the work had been
accomplished. Mr. Imray explains with gpreat clearness what are
the two principles called series and shunt wmding. On the machine
being revolved, he says, a wire wrapped round and round the
magnet crosses over to another magnet, proceeds to do whatever
work is required of it in what is called the external or workine
circuit, and goes back again after doing the work. It is callea
"series*' winding because the coils of the electroma^et are in
series with the external circuit — that is to say, it is one con-
tinuous wire. The current goes straight from start to finish.
The whole electricity produced by the machine goes to excite
the magnet and to the external wire, and straight from
the one to the other. The weak point of it, said Mr. Imray,
is this — that as soon as you break the external circuit you wUl
cease to have an electric machine, because there is no current.
In electrical language, that is spoken of as havinsr the external
circuit opened. When the external circuit is broken or opened,
the current ceases to flow, and you do not have the advantage of
any magnetising action by the current going round the magneta
of the machine. In the siune way, the more resistance you put in
your external circuit — that is to say, the more work you ask your
machine to do — the less current will flow through the external
circuit ; and the more work you have, the less you will be doing
towards the magnetising of your machine. Resistance in wire
mainly depends — first, upon the character of the wire, and what
metal it consists of ; secondly, upon its transverse section ; and,
thirdly, upon its length. The longer the wire, the greater the
resistance ; the smaller the section, the greater the resistance ;
one kind of metal has more resistance than another. Roughly
8))eaking. a short thick wire has much less resistance than
a long thin one. Another form is what is called " shunt "
winding, in which the difference is simply in the disposition
of the wires. The current coming away is split into two.
One portion of it goes to what has been callea the external circuit,
doing whatever is to be done, and having done that work returns
to the machine, but without any actual contact with the magnets
of the machine at all. The other portion goes straight to the
magnet, is wrapped round it as before, and then returns to the
brush, as it is called, without any contact with the external circuit
at all. The strong point, says Mr. Imray, of this arrangement is
that, whether the external circuit is open or closed, there is always
magnetism in the wire capable of producing electricity, because
the current is continually running through the shunt to the
magnet. A defect in it is that some of tne electricity is taken
away from the external circuit which otherwise would go through
it. One further explanation of Mr. Imray's becomes necessary to
follow the question with which your Lordships have to deal, and that
has reference to what Mr. Imray says is' variously known as "electro
motive force," "tension," "pressure, "and "potential." " Potential '
seems to be the word generally used, and means the intensity of pree
sure by which the electricity is caused to pass along a conductor. The
advantage of what is called a compound winding, which is neither
more nor less than a combination of the two previously described,
the first being known as "series," the second as " shunt," and the
one in debate as "series-shunt," or compound winding. The
advantage of the arrangement is in producing a constant pressure
or an equal volume, or an even current. It is difficult, except by
finding analogies in other subjects of physical research than elec-
tricity, to convey the exact idea, but the advantage attained, at
all events, is that when the work is changed in the outer circuit
the amount of current that goes round the magnet is so changed
that one compensates, or nearly compensates, for the other. Now,
in the patent, patented in 1876, Mr. Varley says : " Part of the
electricity developed by the machine is * diverted * " (and the word
is significant) " to maintain the magnetism of the soft iron
magnets, and the remaining portion is used to produoe the electric
light. There are several well-known ways of doing this " (this has
been the subject of very violent comment), "but the method I prefer
is to wrap the soft iron magnets with two insulated wires, one having
a larger resistance than the other. The circuit of larger resistance
is always closed, and the circuit of less resistance used for the
electric light. When the electric light is being produced the
greater portion of electricity passes through the circuit of less
resistance, which I term * the electric light circuit,' maintaining
the magnetism of the magnets and proaucing the light. Wlien
the electric light circuit is opened from any cause the eleotricitj
developed passes through the circuit of greater resistance only,
and maintains the magnetism of the magnets." It is impossible
to deny that, in the present state of electrical knowledge dealing
with dynamos ; but that the description given undoubtedly does
tfiE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8, 1892.
357
difloloee to anybody familiar wifch the principle of electro-dynamos
and the medium by which the electric current is turned to account
g>int6 to the ver^ thin^ for which the patent was granted to Mr.
rush. But it is saia that, for the purpose of judging of the
novelty of the invention of 1876, one must, as nearly as one can,
apply oneself to the knowledge existing at that date, and not apply
what we have learned since, so as to interpret the language of the
patent of 1876 by the light of later discoveries. I am not quite
eertain that I understand the application to this case of that
pfincipleof interpretation, which, however, I admit to be sound. The
" series " was known, the " shunt " was known, and the language
seems to me incapable of any other interpretation than that the
patentee did mean to combine the two previously known systems.
If he did, and disclosed the mode of doing it, the novelty of the
later patent cannot be supported. I confess that I am unable to
entertain a doubt that it was so disclosed. What he intended was,
I think, conclusively shown by the original rough sketch pro-
duced. Distinguished electricians cavil at the mcxle of its disclo-
sure, criticise the language (which is not, perhaps, the most
felicitously chosen), and possibly suggest doubts as to what would
have been the fate of Mr. Varley's patent if it had been attacked
upon the ground of the insufficiency of the specification, but that
is not the question to be determined here. The question is the
disclosure of the invention, which consisted in the combination of
two known forms of dynamo-electric machines. I doubt whether
there is much to choose in clearness of exposition between the one
patent and the other. I think it is certain that neither the one
patentee nor the other had any very definite notion of the
importance of the invention until a year or two later. The
invention of the incandescent light brought into promi-
nence the importance of an even, unuorm, and con-
tinuous flow of the electric energy. I am. therefore,
of opinion that the interlocutor appeeJed from ought to be
affirmed. I have confined myself, however, in arriving at this
conclusion to the specifications themselves, aided by scientific
witnesses, in interpreting the scientific nomenclature in which the
specifications are couched, and the explanations of the witnesses as
to the operations produced by the dififerent forms adopted. I
designedly avoid giving any opinion upon the question of the user of
Varley's machine. Many questions, to my mind, arise as to what
Sublication there was from the use of that machine as a machine
isclosing the mode by which the electric light was produced.
But inasmuch as I have come to the conclusion that I have
indicated, it is not necessary further to discuss the extent to
which the use of the electric light by means of Varley's machine
for the purpose of illustrating some submarine invention was such
an exhibition or publication of it as would make a subsequent
patent void. I therefore move your Lordships that the inter-
locutor appealed from be affirmed, and this appeal dismissed with
costs.
Lord Watson: The appellants are assignees of Brush's patent
of 1878 for improvements in apparatus for the generation and
application of electricity for lighting, plating, and other purposes.
The patent originally incluocd two different dynamo-electric
apparatus, now known respectively as the shunt and the series-
shunt, but in 1882 the appellants, having become aware of the
fact that their shunt- winding machine had already been fully
described and claimed in Clark's patent of 1875, amended their
specification by disclaiming that part of it which related to shunt
winding, and limiting their claim to the series-shunt. In this
appeal they complain of a decision of the First Division of the
Cfourt of Session, affirming an interlocutor of the Lord Ordinary,
by which he reduced and set aside their letters patent as amended
by disclaimer on the grounds, inter aliay that the series-
shunt apparatus therein described had been published in
Varley's patent of 1876, and also that there had been prior
public user. Dynamo-electric machines are useful for various
lands of work, but are now chiefly employed for producing light.
I shall, in so far as it may be necessary to describe such machines,
refer to them as if they were used for the latter purpose. At the
date of Clark's patent the only known variety of self-exciting
dynamos was the series- winding apparatus, in which the current of
electricity generated in the revolving coils, after it has passed
through the commutator, is conducted to and round the magnets
and thence to the lamps, from which it returns to the machine,
thus forming a single electric circuit, which performs the double
function of magnetising the magnets and doing work. In the
shunt apparatus the volume of electricity, after it has passed the
commutator, is divided into two unequal currents by means of a
shunt, or bifurcation of the conducting wire, which is in itself a
common device. The smaller current is then made to circulate
round the magnets, whilst the larger is led to the lamps ; and they
are again united just before they re-enter the machine.
So that these currents form two separate circuits— that of
greater resistance maintaining the supply of electric force
m the magnets, and that of lesser resistance producing light.
The series-shunt-winding apparatus is, as its name imports, a
combination of the two systems already describea. Its
arrangements are practically the same with those of the shunt-
winding machine, subject to this modification — that, after bifurca-
tion, the larger current, instead of being taken direct to the lamps,
is, in the first instance, made to encircle the magnets. Accord-
ingly, the smaller current serves for excitation onW, as in the
shunt system, whereas the larger current serves both for excitation
and for work, as in the series-winding system. Whether the series-
shunt system was first disclosed to the public by Varley in 1876, or
by Brush in 1878, it seems to be certain that the real merit of the
arrangement was neither understood nor appreciated until the
subsequent discovery of the incandescent lamp. The efficiency of
light produced by the incandescence of filaments of carbon dependi
upon the maintenance of a uniform and steady flow of electridtv
in the working circuit, which is now termed a constant potenUal.
In the series and also in the shunt system the working current is
liable to considerable variation ; with this difference — that the
same disturbing elements which in the one case cause a
decrease, in the other occasion an increase of E.M.F. The
combination of these opposite tendencies brings into play the
principle of compensation, and makes it possible, by careful
adjustment, to attain a more constant potential with the
series-shunt than with either of its component systems. The
terms of Brush's specification indicate that the patentee had not
in his view the attainment of that high degree of constancy in the
motive force which is desirable for the purpose of incandescent
lighting. He points out that other machines were *' not well
aaaptea for certain kinds of work, notably that of electroplating,"
and then proceeds to describe his own in these terms : '* I attain
my object bv diverting from external work a portion of the current
of the macuine, and using it either alone or in connection with
the rest of the current for working the field magnets. I prefer
the latter plan of the two, especially for electroplating machines."
In other words he attains his object by using either the shunt or
the series-shunt, but prefers the latter for electroplating. For
other purposes than electroplating he does not suggest that the
one system is in any respect greatly preferable to the other. As
matter of fact it appears to be doubtful which of the two is
most, suitable for plating. Mr. Preece, one of the appellants'
skilled witnesses, says : ** Pure shunt is preferred in England
for electroplating. In America the compound is preferred."
In Varley's patent of 1875 no claim is made either for
shunt or for series winding. The passage which has been
held, by both Courts below, to anticipate the invention
claimed by the appellants, is merely descriptive of the
machines, to which the arrangements claimed by Varley may be
usefully applied, and is in these terms: ** Part of the electricity
developed by the machine is diverted to maintain the magnetism
of the soft iron magnets, and the remaining portion is used to
produce the electric light. There are several well-known ways of
doing this, but the metnod I prefer is to wrap the soft iron magnets
with two insulated wires, one having a larger resistance than the
other. The circuit of larger resistance is always closed, and the
circuit of less resistance is used for the electric light. When the
electric light is being produced, the greater portion of electricity
passes through the circuit of less resistance, which I term ' the
electric lightcircuit,' maintaining the magnetismof the magnets, and
producing light. When the electric light circuit is opened from
any cause, the electricity developed passes through the circuit of
greater resistance only, and maintains the magnetism of the
magnets." In estimating the real significance of Varley's specifi-
cation, it is necessary to consider what amount of information
with respect to dynamo-electric apparatus ought to be attributed
to persons who had an opportunity of reading it in the year 1876.
The language used by the patentee must be construed with
reference to the information then open to the public, and not in
the light of subsequent discoveries. To my apprehension, it does
not admit of doubt that a reader acquainted only with series
winding might not attach the same meaning to the words used by
Varley, as would naturally occur to one who was also familiar
with the shunt, or with the shunt and series-shunt systems of
winding. Since the hearing of this appeal, I have carefully
perused the whole evidence adduced by both parties, in so far as
it has any bearing upon the issue of prior publication. Of the
respondents' evidence, it is sufficient to say that it is in entire
accordance with the decision appealed from. The appellants'
evidence consists of oral testimony by electricians of great
eminence, and is directed mainly, if not wholly, to prove (1) that,
on a fair construction of the specification of 1876, the words
relied on by the Court of Session do not disclose either shunt or
series-shunt winding, and (2), assuming them to do so, that the
specification does not contain explanations or directions which
would enable a workman of ordinary skill to construct either a shunt
or a series-shunt machine. I need hardly say that it is for the Court,
and not for the witnesses, to construe the terms of the specification ;
and that their evidence upon the first of these points is only
material, in so far as it may supply scientific fsusts, which ought
to be taken into account in arriving at the true construction of the
instrument. There is one circumstance which, in my opinion,
seriously affects the value of the appellants' evidence upon both
points. The testimony of their witnesses was given upon the
footing that, in 1876, Clark's invention of the previous year was
still unknown, and that those who read Varley's specification could
have no knowledge of any system other than series winding. Upon
that assumption, it occurs to me that a reader, whether man of
science or skilled workman, would probably have been at loss to
discover what Varley meant, and might not have arrived at either
shunt or series-shunt winding without some exercise of his inven-
tive faculty. I am, however, unable to find any good reason for
holding that Clark's shunt machine was unknown in the year 1876.
It is true that in 1878 Mr. Brush had never heard of Clark's
invention, and also that shunt winding was unknown to Sir
William Thomson before 1879. But it appears to me that Clark's
taking out a patent for his invention was, both in fact and law, a
publication of it. I do not suppose that every electrician, however
eminent, is bv necessity personally cognisant of every invention
patented within the bounds of his science ; and the ignorance of
two or more of them is unavailing to prove that the knowledge of
others was equally defective. I cannot, therefore, avoid the con-
clusion that, in 1876, Clark's shunt-winding machine had been
disclosed to the public, and must have been known to some, if not
to all, electricians; and, consequently, that the controverted
passage in Varley's specification ought to be construed on the
358
T^E ELESCTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8, 189S.
footing that shunt winding was known at its date. I do not think
it necessary to deal with the conflict of testimony as to the sufficiency
of Varley's specification for the guidance of a skilled workman. The
Lord Ordinary was of opinion that theappellants had failed to prove
that part of their case. But I agree with n is Lordship, and witn the
learned judges of the First Division, in holding that the sufficiency
or insufficiency of the specification for that purpose does not
afford a crucial test of prior publication Every patentee, as a
condition of his exclusive privilege, is bound to describe his
invention in such detail as to enable a workman of ordinary skill
to practice it ; and the penalty of non-compliance with that con-
dition is forfeiture of his privilege. His patent right may be
invalid by reason of non-compliance ; but it certainly does not
follow that his invention has not been published. His speci-
fication may, notwithstanding that defect, be sufficient to con-
vey to men of science and employers of labour information
which will enable them, M'ithout any exerciBC of inventive
ingenuity, to understand his invention, and to give a work-
man the specific directions which he failed to communicate.
In that case I cannot doubt that his invention id published as
completely as if his description had been intelligible to a workman
of ordinary skill. Assuming as, in my opinion, I am bound to do,
that Clark s invention was known in 1876, 1 have no hesitation in
holding that Varley s specification sufficiently deecribes both the
shunt and the series-snunt machine. The first sentence in the
passage already quoted contains an accurate representation of
shunt winding. The electricity developed by the machine is to be
** diverted," which is the word used in the appellants* specification
to denote bifurcation, into two parts— one for magnetising, and the
''remaining portion " for producing light. These expressions plainly
refer to a single current of electricity generated by the machine,
which is to be split into two currents— one for excitation of the
magnets and one for work— an arrangement which, according
to the evidence, embraces all the essential features of
a shunt machine. The sentences which follow appear to me
to describe the series-shunt with et[ual accuracy. They commence
with the statement that there are several M-ays of "doing this " —
that is, of obtaining a circuit of excitation and an electric lighting
circuit from a single current— by dividing it into two portions.
The method preferred is to make both circuits pass round the
magnets,^ that of greater resistance beiu^ employed for excitation
only, whilst that, of lesser resistance excites the magnets, and also
does the work of lighting. The series-shunt is evidently treated
as a mere modification of the shunt system ; and I think it might
be reasonably regarded in that light by the patentee. The altera-
tion in the mechanical arrangement of the apparatus is in itself
trivial ; and the possibility of thereby obtaining such a constant
potential as would, at a future date, suffice lor the purpose of
incandescent lighting was not present to his mind. There
might, as one of the witnesses suggests, still remain room
for a patentable improvement upon the series-shunt as
describea by Varley, consisting in an adjustment which
woald ensure a high degree of constant potential. No such
possibility is indicate either by Varley or in Brush's patent of
1878. In the argument addressed to your Lordships, counsel for
the appellants laid much stress upon these words occurring in
Varley s specification : ** The insulated wire composing the helices
is connected to the insulated wire surrounding the soft iron
magnets of the machine, and is usually inserted in the circuit of
greater resistance." They maintained that the necessary result of
giving effect to that direction would be to deprive the apparatus
contemplated by Varley of all the characteristics of series-
shunt winding. The point does not appear to have been pressed
in the Courts below. At least it is not noticed by any of the
judges. In the absence of evidence to support the appellants' con-
tention, I have come to the conclusion tnat the adjustment thus
indicated might effect the constancy of the volume of electricity
conveyed by the electric li^ht circuit, but that the apparatus would
still be a series-shunt- winding machine. These reasons are
safficieot to dispose of this appeal ; and I desire to express no
opinion upon the matter of prior public user. The argument of
the appellants satisfied me that the question was one upon which
I should prefer not to form any conclusion without hearing counsel
for the respondents. I therefore concur in the judgment which
has been moved by the Lord Chancellor.
Iiord Henohell delivered judgment to the same effect, and the
other noble and learned lords having concurred.
The judgment of the Court below was affirmed and the appeal
was dismissed with costs.
SAVORY AND MOORE v. THE LONDON ELECTRIC SUPPLY
CORPORATION.
The Grosvenop TransfoFmer Station.
The appeal by the defendants against the injunction granted by
Mr. Justice Kekewich restraining them from using their Grosvenor
buildings and cellars as a transformer station, came on before
Lords Justices Lindley, Bowen, and Kay on Thursday, 31st ult.
The case was settled upon the following terms : Dissolve the
injunction, the defendants undertaking (1) not to use any room
except the basement (which was admitted to be free from danger)
for transformers until satisfying some person, to be agreed on by
the parties, as to its safety for that purpose ; (2) not to store
inflammable materials in any room used for transformers ; the
defendants to pay the cost of the appeal and of the action.
Mr. Moulton, Q.C., and Mr. W. F. Hamilton were for the defen-
dants—the appellants ; Mr. Rigby, Q.C., Mr. Warmington, Q.C.,
and Mr. Vernon R. Smith were for the plaintifis.
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
HOUSE-TO-HOUSE ELECTRIC LIGHT SUPPLY COMPANT.
The fourth ordinary general meeting of this Company was h^
at the central station, Richmond-rofl3. Kensington, on Tueedsy
afternoon, the chairman, Mr. Henry Ramie Beeton, presiding.
The Seeretary, Mr. H. St. John Winkworth, having resa the
notice convening the meeting.
The Clutlrman said : I assume that, in accordance with our
practice on previous occasions, it is the wish of the meeting that
the report and accounts be t-aken as read. That report and
those accounts set out the main facts of the progress of the
Company for the year 1891, and I think that the shareholders
will probably agree with me that the result is at any
rate comparatively satisfactory. From the accounts it is
seen that the capital expenditure for the 12 months has
amounted to £8,996. The increase in revenue has amounted
to upwards of £3,300, which has been earned on a percentage of
about 41, thereby reducing the percentage of expenses from 92 to
79. Now the profits would, of course, have been larger if the rate
of progress during the year had been equal to that oi the preced-
ing year. Unfortunately, that has not been quite maintained. I
find that on the 3l8t December, 1889, there were connected to
the Company's mains 4,520 35watt lam^is, and on the diet
December, 1890, 13,605 similar lamps, showing an increase during
the year of 9,145. On the 31st December, 1891, there were con-
nected to the Company's mains 19,388 35-watt lamps, showing an
increase during the year of 5,723. Since the close of the
year 871 lamps have been connected, raising the total con-
nected on 31st March to 20,259, and there is every indica-
tion from the orders in hand, and the general development
of the district, that we shall have a satisfactory increase during the
current year. The Company has, of course, benefited by the
administrative economies to which I referred at the last general
meeting as on the point of being introduced, and, in addition, it
has benefited by improvements in the works which have been
introduced as the result of greater experience and more perfect
organisation. Now, the condition of things which these facte
disclose will, I think, justify the assumption that any future incre-
ments of capital are likely to be employed at a high rate of pro-
ductivity, and that after the claims of any new capital have been
satisfied, a surplus will be left which will accrue to the
ordinary shareholders. At our last general meeting I was able
to announce to the shareholders that the negotiations which
had been for some time on foot for the benefiting of our con-
struction asset were on the point of conclusion. Although their
consummation was delayed longer than I expected at the time, I
am pleased to say that after protracted negotiation we have at
length attained a participation in a contract with the Leeds and
London Electrical Engineering Company, whereby, although this
Company will not enjoy a large share of the profits of that under-
taking, on the other hand, it will not be callea upon to provide any
funds or take any further risk. Moreover, we are guaranteed
£525 a year for the first two years, and if the business is as
successful as it promises to be, we may get more than this for
many years. With those few observations, I beg to move that the
report and accounts be adopted.
Bfr. Robert Hammond, managingdirector, hod great pleasure
in rising to second t)ie resolution. Tliere was little to add to the
Chairman's extremely lucid exposition of the present position of
the Company's business. He thought, however, shareholders
would be interested to know that the rate of increase during the
year would have been much larger if the plant had permitted the
engineers to take on more busmess. They had been somewhat
limited during the year by their plant, and the active canvassing
for business which went on in the previous year was not continuea
in 1891, so that thev might very fairly say that in the coming
year, when further plant would be added to that at present in the
station, they would have a considerable number of lights added to
.their circuit. In connection with this, he would also venture to draw
the attention of shareholders to the fact, which was not emphasised
from the chair, that since those accounts were closed an amount of
preference capital had been issued and very freely taken up. The
amount was £12,290, which would be spent in the works and used in
increasing their possible output. The Chairman was, he thought,
fully justified in what he said with regard to the good prospects
that laid before the Company. The profits tliat had been made
during the past year had been made upon a load that had gradually
increfuied. The speaker then called the attention of the meeting
to a diagram on the walls, on which curves were drawn showing
the increase in the load. In June, 1890, it rose from 8,000 lamps
to 20,000 at the end of March, 1892. The maximum output
in 1890 was shown to be 210 kilowatts, and this year 264
kilowatts. He was sure Directors were not taking too
sanguine a view of the future when they said that a point
had been reached in the Company's history when they had
got on a dividend-paying basis. He would congratulate the share-
holders on the present position of the Company, and would thank
the manager and staff, as well as the Director who had specially
devoted himself to the works, for this condition of affi&irs. As to
the interest that the House-to-House Company had in the Leeds
and London Electrical Engineering Company, it might be known
to most of them that the latter company was formed for the pur-
pose of dealing efficiently with the so-called construction asset of
the House-to-House Company, it being felt that it would be mora
to the interest of that Company to devote all its energies to the
supply of electricity from house to house, and to leave to another
company that might be able to manufacture machinery
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8, 1892.
359
the ereotioD of central Btationa for others. He iras very glad
indeed to Bay that though that agreomeat was only Hnally made
on the last day of last year, the Leeds and London Company, of
whioh he was a director, had met with very great encouragement.
He would draw their attention to a notice which appeared in a
Midland paper on the previous day. to the effect that at the
meeting of the Burton -on -Trent Corporation on Wednesday
(April 6), the Electrical Committee intended to recommend that
the contract for the erection of the central station ior Iturton
should be given to that particular firm which was working on
behalf of the Leeda and London Company, with the result that the
profits thereby accruing would come into the pockets of that
company. As the Hoiue-Co-Hoaae Company had a very early
charge upon thoae profits, the fact that that work had been taken
would make them hope that the £525 alluded to by the Chairman
would certainly this year be £1,050, if not more. He was also
glad to inform shnreholdere that the Yorkshire Ho use- to- Ho use
Company, which was one that also brought grist to the mill of the
Leeds and London Company, hod had a very satisfactory amount
of capital subscribed, and would, he thought, result in a very
good profit to that company, with which they were practically in
affiliation. In conclusion, he could only say, as he had said so
often, that an electric light company which did its work as well as
the House- to- House did might depend upon a gradually increasing
biisinesa. Those companies which had failed in the race werethose
that hod not been able to satisfy their customers by giving a good
Iit(bt ataregularpreaeure. Those who moved about London and
had an opportunity of comparing the light given by the House-to-
House Com|>any with that given by other companies, would agree
t' that'
with that Eloard in saying t1
IS no electric light cc
I, where
impan;
satisfactorily fullilling its obliga-
the House- to-House. Thougii in a
position to hear complaints, he was glad to tell the shareholders
that he only heard praises of their lighta on ei ery side,
Mr. Elmbar asked how it was that in one account their capital
was stated as being £41.310, and tn another £26 610. He also
called attention to one or two mistakes in the accounts which, he
concluded, were misprints ; and the Chairman said that was so-
Mr. HammonA explained that, under the Board of Trade rules,
they had to keep two capital accounts, one relating to the Houee-
to-House Electric Light Supply Order, 1SS9. and the other
referring to the Company's capital.
The C&alrmui then put the resolution adoi)ting the report and
account, and declared it carried.
On the motion of the ChalriDkn, seconded by Hr. DkVlea, a
dividend at the rate of 7 per cent, on the preference shares was
declared.
Kr. Hftmmand moved the reelection of Mr. H. H. Beeton as a
director, this was seconded by BIr, Page, and carried.
The ClMlmuan then proposed the re-election of Mr. Robert
Hammond as a director, Mr. Leeae seconded, and this was carried.
Mr. W. F. Leese and Mr. William Reginald Davies were then
elected to the Board. Mr. Leese and Mr. lialindez were elected
directors by the Board during the past year, bnt the Chi
explained that the latter had been obliged to ' '
he was likely to remain for some time, and under
did not ofier himself for election.
The auditors (Messi-s. Theobald Bros, and Miall) having been re-
elected auditors on the proposition of Hr. KlintMr, seconded by
Hr. WUtehoad, the proceedings closed with a vote of thanks to
the Choinnan.
TELEPHONE COMPANY OF EGYPT.
The ninth ordinary general meeting of this Company was held
on Tuesday at the omces, Austin -friars, General Alexander Frnser
presiding .
The dialfmaa said that the business generally had continued
OB tbe even course it had done for some years past, enabling them
to pay a dividend of 6 per cent, on tho preferrod shares. The
Inoreaee in the number of subscribers was sometimes discounted by
A demand for lower rates, but this demand they had been forced
to resist when they thought that the rates were as low as an
efficient service would permit, and in the abwnce of all complaint
he thought thoy were justified in considering that it was efficient-
He concluded by moving the adoption of the report and accounts
and the declaration of the dividend recommended.
seconded the motion, which was carried.
NEW COMPANIES BEGISTERED.
fllMlrasford Sleotrlo Llgbtlng Company, Llmltad. — Ftegistered
by E. H. F. Reeves, Little Heath, Potter's Bar, with a capital of
£10,000 in £1 shares. Object : to carry into effect an agreement
made between Messrs. Crompton and Co,, Limited, of the one
part and this Company of the other part, and generally to carry
on business as manufacturers of and dealers in lampa and lanteins
and other appliances for supplying Ught and power by means of
electricity, and as electricians and mechanical engineers, etc.
The Pont3rpoal sisotrle LlKbt and Power Oompauy, Umltad,
This Company has been registered by Waterlow Bros, and
Layton, Birchin-lane, E.G., with a capital of £10,000 in £S shares.
Object : to carry on the business of an electric light and power
company in alt its branches. There shall not be less than five nor
mora than eeven Directors; the first are W. Pegler, Jan., J. C.
Howell, E. B. Ford, W. Sandbrook, and J. Herbert. Qualification,
f60.
BUSINESS NOTES.
Dlreot Spanlab TelSBraph Company.^The receipts for March
were £2,IO;l, as against £l,(lSri for the corresponding period of last
year.
BaaMm Telegraph Company.— The receipts for March
were £59,037, a* against t'.'iS,*'!" for tho corresponding [wriod of
We*t India and Panama Telegraph Company. — ^The estimated -
receipts for the half-inontii ended March .11 are £;!,047, as compared I
with £.1,400. 1
IiUngton.— It is stated that the Islington Electric Lighting
Company Is being privately underwritten, and will be issued
shortly to the public.
Private Houe LlRbtlnK — Mr. W. H, Baxter, of 71, Gelderd-
road. Leads, is inviting tenders for supplying and fixing electric
lighting plant in a private house.
Waatarn and BratUlaa Talegraph Companr, — The receinta
for last week, after deducting 17 per cent, payable to the Liondon
Platino-Brazilian Company, were £.1.265.
Qloba Telegraph and Trttat Company. — Interim dividends of
.Is. per prefei'cnce share and '&. 6d. per ordinary shore have been
declared by the Directors, payable on the '20bh inst.
The Telephone Company of Anatrla has declared the usual
half-yearly dividend to the 31st ult. on the preference shares at
tbe rate of 6 |)er cent, per annum, payable, less income tax, focth-
Cltr and SanthliondonKaUway.— The receipts for the week
ending 4th April were £796, against £901 for the corresponding
period of last year, which, however, happened to be Easter week.
Tliis represents a decrease of £l<ia, as compared with the receipts
for the week ending March "27. Those of last week show a decrease
of £2-2.
W. T. Henley's Telegraph Works.— Warrants were posted on
the 1st inst. for a dividend at the rate of 7 )>er cent, per annum on
(he preference shares and of 5 per cent, per annum (Free of income
tax) on the ordinary shares for the year ended December 31, 1S91.
The subscribed shore capital of this Company is £21,000 preference
shares and £67, '270 ordinary shores.
Kotloe of aomovaL— Messrs. Wheatley Kirk, Price, and
Goulty, consulting engineers, valuers, arbitrators, and electrical
and mechanical auctioneers, lote of 52, Queen Victoria-street,
E.t'., infotm us that the increase in their business having necessi-
tated enlarged office accommodation, they have removed to 411,
Queen Victoria-street, E C. (Albert-buildings), immediately oppo-
site the Mansion House railway station.
Peraonal. — Mr. Ernest Scott, consulting chemist and engineer,
of 4 and 5, In vestment -buildings, 67, Lord-street, Liverpool,
informs us that he has taken over the business of Ur. Hugh
Hughes, analytical and consulting chemist, of 20, Castle- street,
which business lie will carry on at the above address- Mr. Scott
has for the post six years been head chemist and departmental
manager to Messrs. liever Bros-, of Port Sunlight.
Bengal Telephone Company. — The report for the year
1891 shows that the position of this Company is steadily im-
proving. An available balance omounting to 54,670 rupees is
shown at the credit of profit and loss account, out of which it is
proposed to piay a dividend at the rate of 5^ per cent., and to
carry forward 6,276 rupees. The report states that on the 31st of
last December the Company's revenue had amounted to 78,155
rupees, the largest on record. The dividend declared is at the
rat« of over 9 per cent, on the present value of the scrip.
Kaatem Kxtanalon Telegraph Company. — The accounts to
December 31 last show, subject to audit, a balance of profit of
£198,237, after payment of three interim dividends. The Direc-
tors now proijose to distribute on May 4 next tho usual dividend
of 2b- 6d. per share, making a total dividend of .^ per cent, for the
yearlS91, together with o bonus of 4s per share, or 2 per cent.,
making a total distribution of 7 |ier cent, for the year. Tho
balance of £111,967 has been carried to the reserve fund. The
receipts for March amounted to £43 805, as against £44,716 m
the corresponding jieriod of last year.
CompMileB Registered during Haroh.— The following elec-
trical companies were registered during the past month :
Association for tbe Protection of Telephone Subscribera,
Limited (Guarantee) —
Boardman's Electric Sun Lamp Patenbi, Limited, £S
shares £10,000 |
Chelmsford Electric Lighting Company, Limited, £1
shares 10,000 1
Electric Lighting and 3eDeral Development Syndicate,
Limited, £10 shares
Hick, Hargreaves, and Co., Limited, £10 shores 240,000 I
Merryweather and Bons, Limited, £10 and £1 ahares 110,200 [
Pontypool Electric Light and Power Company, Limited,
£5sWea \:.... 10,000
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1892,
MaIICih 28.
. tmproTementa In ondergronnd oonduotora (Or the distil-
hntlon of electricity. Sydney William Baynes, 37, Sprin)^
gardens, Manningbam, Bradford.
360
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 8, 1892.
5982. Improvements In Joints and oonneetlons for eleetrloal
pnrpoeee. Aymor Hollo way Sanderson, *' Darfield/'
MarlborouG^h-road, Bournemouth.
5988. Improvements in or relating to tlie dlatrlbation of
eleetrlolty. John Smith Ra worth and William Geipel, 46,
Lincoln*8-inn-iield8, London.
6006. Improvements in the treatment of eleetro-depoeits of
metals. Thomas Parker and Alfred Edward Robinson, 47,
Lincoln's-inn-fields, Tendon.
6007. improvements In or oonneeted with cells for electrolysing
chloride solutions. Thomas Parker and Alfred Edward
Robinson, 47, Lincoln's-inn-fields, London.
6015. Improvements connected with shades and shade or
reflector holders for Incandescent electric lamps.
Richard Robert Harper, 166, Fleet-street, London.
March 29.
6050. Improvements in insulated electric conductors. William
Phillips Thompson, 6, Lord-street, Liverpool. (James B.
W^illiams, United States ) (Complete specification.)
6058. Improvements In maohinery for the purpose of hardening
and tempering metals by eleotrioity. William Frederick
Taylor, Boswell-court, Croydon.
606L Improvements in telephone switchboards. Alfred Whalley ,
Helsby, near Warrington, Cheshire.
6083. Improvements in incandescent electric lamps. Frank
Stuart Smith, 28, Southampton-buildings, Chancery -lane,
London. (Complete specification. )
6068. Improvements in the manufacture of filaments for
incandescent electric lamps. Moritz Boehm, 18, Bucking-
ham-street, Strand, London.
6095. Improvements in conducitors for electric railways or
tramways. R^inald Belfield, 6, Waidegrave-park, Straw-
berry Hill, Middlesex.
6105. Improved method of and apparatus for lessening or pre-
venting incrustation, corrosion, and pitting in steam
generators, and apparatus for imparting heat to water,
which invention can be applied in connection or not with
electric lighting apparatus. James Bennett and John
Tellefsen, 46, Lincoln's-inn-fields, London.
6112. Improvements in and relating to secondary batteries or
accumulators. Henry Harris Lake, 45, Southampton-
buildings, Chancery -lane, London. (William Sleicher, jun.,
and George Abija Mosher, United States.) (Complete
specification . )
6119. Improvements relating to electric railways. Michel-
angelo Cattori, 45, Southampton-buildings, Chancery -lane,
London. (Complete specification. )
March 30.
6122. An improvement in the construction of electric arc
lamps. Edwin Charles Russell, Jeflfreys-square. St. Mary
Axe, London.
6145. An Improved electric railway system. Eben Moody
Boynton, 52, Chancery -lane, London.
6152. An improved material or fi^brio for applying magnetic,
galvanic, or other currents for curative or medical pur-
poses. Thomas Field, jun., James Worsfold, and Henry
Samuel Deffett Brayn, 82, Mansion House-chambers,
Bncklersbury, London.
March 31.
6232. An improved process for electrically renovating, re-
surDsdng and welding, fusing, or bracing strainer- plates
used in paper-making, brewing, and other Industries.
Henry John Rogers and John Paramor, Lavington,
Watford, Hertfordshire.
6266. Blectromagnetic variable speed gearing. William Worby
Beaumont, 100, Palace-road, Tulse Hill, London.
6253. Improvements In apparatus for propelling vehicles by
electricity upon railways and tramways. Alfred Spencer
Churchill, 24, Southampton-buildings, London.
6259. Improvements In the manuDscture of filaments and other
light-emitting bodies for electric glow lamps, and
apparatus therefor. Ernest Bailey, 191, Fleet-street,
London.
April 1.
6287. Improvements In incandescent lamps. Ernest Bohm, 42,
Little Britain, London.
6288. Improvements In or connected with the manuflmture of
alkalies, chlorine, and hydrogen by electrolysii. Henry
Clay Bull, 15, Water-street, Liverpool.
6289. Improvements In the deposition of metals by electrolysis,
and apparatus therefor. John Cameron Graham, 13,
Temple-street, Birmingham.
6293. Improvements In motors and dynamos. James Gibson,
33, North Hamilton-street, Kilmarnoch.
6312. An electrical apparatus for starting gas engines and
ottfsr prime movers. Claude William Hill and Edgar
Hughes, 5, Parsonage, Manchester.
6344. Improved apparatus for straining or taking up slack In
wires, cables, strips, or the like, more especially
Intended for straining electric conductors between their
supports. Clement tlohnson Barley and Mark Feetham,
47i Lincoln 's-inn -fields, London.
6345. Improved «lectrle hammer for dental and other purposes.
Henry Nehmer, 4, Grafton-street, Gower-street, London.
631.3.
6.348.
6364.
6.371.
6402.
6405.
6406.
6428
Improvements in reoeptaelea for elaetrle and other
wires, gas piping, and the like. Thomas George HarUand
and James Evans, 46, Market-street, Manchester.
Improvementa In electrioal relays Willoughby Statham
Smith and William Puddicombe Granville, 24, South-
ampton-buildings, Chancery-lane, London.
Improvements In electric are lamps. Henry Harris lAke,
45, Southampton-buildings, London. (Henri Wilbrant,
Belgium. )
April 2.
A safety incandescent lamp globe snitabis for daager
buildings. Charles Frewen Jenkin, Waltham Abbey,
Essex.
Improvements In the means of preventing iaterftarsBee
of electric currenU used in tramways, telephones, ets.
George Forbes, 34, (ireat George-street, Westminster,
London.
An improvement In secondary voltaic batteries. David
Urquhart and James Miln Small, 28, Southampton-build-
ings, Chancery-lane, London.
Magnetic rolling apparatus. Francis Edward Elmore
and Alexander Stanley Elmoro, 28, Southampton- buildings,
Chancery-lane, London.
Improvements in the manufacture of elements flor
electric or secondary batteries. Emmanuel Hancock and
Augustus John Marcjuand, 24, Southampton-buildings,
( 'hancery-lane, London.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED
1878.
.3988. Xleotric lighting, etc. Fox. (Seventh edition.)
1882.
4548. Transporting by electricity. Jenkin. (Second edition.)
189().
694. Sleotric, etc., lamps. Clegg. (Second edition )
10741. Xleotrio glow lamps. Siemens Bros, and Co., Limited.
(Siemens and Halske.) (Second edition.)
1891.
3984. Klectric arc lamps. Patin.
4669. Generating electricity Hirbec
4682. Kleotrical supply systems. De Ferranti.
4684. Measuring and adjusting magnetic force. Mayes.
6048. Sleotric power apparatus North.
6489. Slectrio incandescent lamps. Pryke.
679.3. Producing pyrotechnic, etc., eHbots by eleetrietty.
Champion.
7850. Telephone exchanges. Horn. (Strowger.)
7858. Xlectrical switches. Snell and others.
7878. Preventing ignition of gases in dsmamos, etc. Rowan
and McWhirter.
7911. Xlectric switch. Grimston.
7912. Klectric capstan Grimston.
7937. Sleotric resistance devices. Cox.
8153. Sleotrlcally propelled ears. Siemens Bros, and Co.,
Limited. (Siemens and Halske.)
12107. Klectric light, etc, fittings. Dow.
19965. Slectrio conduotors. Love.
21551. Slectrtc Ught projection. Pitt. (Sautter, Harle,
and Co.)
22037. Printing • telegraph receiving instruments. Lake.
(Wright.)
1892.
1313. Sleotric motor oars. Short.
1557. Slectromagnetic apparatus. Threlfall.
2448. Telegraphic relays. Wentz.
2497. Magneto-electric machines. Hunt.
2724. Slectro-therapentloal apparatus. (<rimm.
2744. Telephonic instruments. Hoffmann.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Naine
Brush Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, Gutta Percha k Telegraph Co.
House-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Electric Construction
Westminster Electric
Liyer{>ool Electric Supply
[I
Prict
Paid.
Wednat
day
— ^
H
—
-*i
10
20i
5
«i
—
9
s
I
Si
H
—
»»
.1
•*i
10
64
—
ttj
5
^4
3
H
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 15, 1892.
361
NOTES.
FeTBonol.^&fr. W. Gibaon Carey, of the Eneliah
Thomson-Houston Company, has gone over to the Slates
on a business visit.
BncklUKham.— The Bfickingham Town Council have
Sanctioned an agreement with Mr. A. C Rogers for
lighting the Town Hall with electric light.
Visits to Works. ^The students of the Institution of
Civil Engineers paid a visit to the works of Messrs. Siemens
firos. and Co., at Charlton, yesterday afteraoon.
Utilisation of Water Power.— Works are in pro-
gress near Fond du Lac, on the St. Louis river, for
the utilisation of 100,000 h.p. and distribution by
fclectricity.
The Lane Fox Case. — We understand that the
solicitors of Mr. Lane Fox have given notice of appeal, and
thus one more electrical patent case has to be fought out
to the bitter end.
Dawlish. — At the last meeting of the Dawlish Local
Board, Mr. Cann suggested that the Parade should be
better lighted, and the subject was referred to the
Lighting Committee.
Water Power in Italy. — The town of Crosetto, in
luly, is to have an initallation of electric light at 2,000
volts, using a waterfall 2J miles away. Messrs. Siemens
And Halske will supply the plan^.
Newcastle Trams.— A correspondent of the NevxaslU
Daily Chronidf. suggests the use of the water company's
reservoir at Fenham for supply of power to drive electric
trams in Wesigate, Newcastle-on-Tyne.
Personal. — Mr. Emile Garcke, formerly managing
director of the Brush Electrical Engineering Company,
Limited, has been appointed managing director of the
EUectric and General Investment Company, Limited.
BiidUngton Qnajr. — At a meeting of the Bridlington
Local Board held on the 5tb inst., Mr. R. RaiUton Brown
was ap[>oint«d electrical engineer to the Boaid, to take
charge of their installation of electric lighting plant.
The Eleotrio Light in onr Homes. ^>Ve note the
Irish Htallh Record for April contains, amongst other
interesting matter, the first of a series of articles under the
above heading, by Mr. Angelo Fahie, M.I.E.E., of Dublin.
Bedford. — The Electric Light Committee of the Bedford
Town Council were much pleased with their recent visit to
Eastbourne, and will recommend the Corporation to take
preliminary steps towards establishing the light in the town.
Electric Locomotive. — Messrs. Brown, Boveri, and
Co., of Baden, Zurich, are constructing what will be the
largest electric loci>motive in the world. It is to develop
1,500 to 2,000 h.p. The trial run will take place this
summer.
Osone Inhaler, — At a recent congress in Berlin,
Dr. Schiitze showed an apparatus consisting of an ebonite
tube, in which were two metallic points connecting to a
bigh-tension source, for the convenient inhalation of osone
by patients for whom its treatment was prescribed.
Development of India. — Mr. Rembrey, solicitor, of
Calcutta, has published a. pamphlet on the development of
India, setting forth a long list of appliances and processes
that might be introduced by enterprising firms. Among
these, electrical processes naturally bear a large part
Eleotrio and Cable Railwaye. — The following have
been named of the Select Committee of the House of Lords
to join with the Committee of the House of Commons on
electric and cable railways : The Earl of Lauderdale, the i
Earl of Strafford, Tiaconat Burington, Lord Thring, uid
Lord Kelvin.
Bonmemonth. — On the recommendation of the
General Purposes Committee, the Bournemouth Town
Council have approached Prof. Kennedy with reference to
obtaining bis advice as to the acceptance of the tenden
which have bees received for lighting the pier, offices, and
gardens by electricity,
Telephones in the North.— The National Telephone
Company will shortly open an exchange in Morpeth, and
connect that town with Newcastle and neighbouring towns,
as well as all the principal towns in Lancashire, Yorkshire,
and Khe Midlands districts. The message rate to Newcastle
and other towns within 25 mites will be 3d.
Bern. — A project for the use of water power for the
transmission of power to the Jura-Simplon Railway is
before the railway company. Projects have been received
from the Oerlikon Company, the Soci^td pour I'lndustaie
Electrique, of Genf, Messrs. Lahmeyer, and Messrs.
Scbuckert It is expected the Lahmeyer system will be
adopted.
St. Panoras, — Prof. H. Robinson has, on behalf of
the St. Pancras Vestry, given notice to the London County
Council of intention to lay mains in Seymour-street,
Drummond-street, Clarendon-square, and Hampden-street
The Council has already approved the manner of laying
electric light mains adopted, and has sanctioned the works
mentioned.
Clermont-Ferrand. — The g^s company of Clermont-
Ferrand has contracted with MM. Schneider and Co. for
the supply of a central station of 280 kilowatts capacity on
the Zipemowski system. Corliss engines will be used.
The station will have three sets of 90-h.p. engines and
dynamos to start with. Other sets will be added as the
demand extends.
CaUo to the East. — A Router's telegram from
Shanghai says : " The negotiations which have been
recently carried on between the Chinese Government and
the Eastern Extension and Great Northern Telegraph Com-
panies have now been brought to a successful termination,
and an equjtable arrangement has been arrived at which
contemplates a reduction in the tariffs."
Paris Eleotrio Tramwi^. — The new electric tram-
way running from Saint-Denis to the Madeleine io Paris
was publicly tested last week. The run to and fro was
accomplished satisfactorily from Place aux Gueldres to the
barrier at St Ouen. The service is carried on by the
Compagnie des Tramways, Nord — and a second service is
to be shortly organised from SainUDenis to the barrier of
La Chapelle.
Eleotrio Launch, — The " Bonnie Southport," an
electric launch, had her trial trip on Tuesday last week,
and on that occasion gave very satisfactory results. This
handsome boat was designed and moulded by Mr. W. S.
Sargeant, electrical engineer and launch builder, Strand-on-
the-Green, Chiswick. The accumulators used — 19 plates
each, capacity of 140 ampere-hours — were supplied by the
Electrical Power Storage Company. The propeller is one
of ^Ir. Sargeant's latest type, designed for high speed and
for electrical power.
Darweu. — The consumption of gas at Darwen is
increasing rapidly. It has lately been decided by the
Town Council to double the storage capacity of the gas-
holder at a coat of £S,000. The last addition to the
storage was in 1676, and since then the consumption has
risen 75 per cent, the storage remaining the same. The
present addition to the lighting accommodation is not by
any means too soon, and there would evideo
362
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 15, 1892.
for the establishment of electric distributing stations with-
out overcrowding the output of illuminating agencies.
Eleotrio Cookinflr. — Mr. W. J. Hammer recently
wrote to the PaU Mall QazeUe claiming the electric
cooking apparatus as exhibited at the Crystal Palace and
elsewhere as the invention of Mr. Carpenter, and the
exhibit, we notice, is now described as *' Carpenter's
System," so there does not seem to be any disposal to
credit the invention of cookers made of " resistance wires
laid in enamel of the same coefficient of expansion as the
wire," to any other inventor.
Baoup. — At a recent meeting of the General Works
Committee of the Bacup Town Council it was resolved that
the terms offered by Mr. Shoolbred, consulting electrical
engineer, Westminster, and electrical engineer to the Cor-
poration of Bradford, etc., be accepted, and that he be
retained for consultation and the preparing of a preliminary
report as to the best means to be adopted in carrying out
electric lighting within the borough, upon the terms and
conditions contained in such letter. The minutes were
adopted, and the appointment confirmed at last week's
Town Council meeting.
West Country Telephones. — The Western Counties
and South Wales Telephone Company are by degrees
accomplishing their object of bringing their subscribers
throughout the West Country into telephonic communication
with each other. The latest important section of their
scheme completed is that between Exeter and Newton, by
which all the more important towns south of Exeter are
brought into communication with the county town. This
work has only just been completed, but the trial of the
line is eminently satisfactory, and a large increase in the
list of subscribers may be expected.
Poliee Telephones. — Under the guidance of Captain
Paterson, of the Glasgow Fire Brigade, a number of nota-
bilities from Aberdeen were shown over the Glasgow Fire
Brigade stations, and, amongst other recent improvements,
were shown an exceedingly ingenious system of police
telephone sub-stations, patented by Captain Paterson. It
is proposed to bring the matter before the Aberdeen
Watching Committee, in order to secure the erection of
four or five of these stations in the suburbs. A visit was
afterwards paid to the northern fire station, and on an
alarm being given the brigade turned out, fully equipped,
in 13 seconds.
The Boat Raoe. — A great many connected with the
electrical trades and professions were present at the univer-
sities' boat race on Saturday, owing to the prevalence of
electric launches and the kindness of the companies owning
them. The General Electric Traction Company had 150
visitors at their *' Immisch " charging station at Mortlake,
nearly opposite the winning-post, who enjoyed themselves,
the lunch, the warm weather, and the sight of the boats
sweeping round the curve, Oxford well in front. Wooi-
house and Rawson had also several electric boats filled with
spectators, and Mr. Sargeant's barge was well patronised by
electrical visitors — altogether a great success.
Tewkesbnry. — At the meeting of the Tewkesbury
Town Council last week Mr. Jackson proposed that a com-
mittee be formed to consider the question of applying for
a provisional order under the Electric Lighting Act, and
suggested certain gentlemen to form the committee,
excluding those who were directors or had pecuniary
interest in the gas company. The members of the direc
torate and shareholders of the gas company and others
resented this, and two of them claimed to be placed upon
the committee, and said it was a gross insult to exclude
them. Mr. Jackson considered that from their (losition
they could not approach the question unbiassed. The
motion to include the whole of the members of the Council
upon the committee was eventually carried.
Reading. — At the meeting of the Reading Town
Council last week, the minutes of the General Purposes
Committee were approved. Amongst other matters it was
stated that an elaborate report was received from the town
clerk as to the proposed license to be granted to the
Reading Electric Light Supply Company, containing
reservations in favour of the Corporation of the right to
supply electricity for lighting the public buildings and
streets by means of the water power of the Corporation at
Southcote Mill. It was resolved that subject to the draft
license being finally settled in consultation with parlia-
mentary agents, that the town clerk be authorised to forward
a copy to Mr. Kite, the electric light company's solicitor,
informing him that the Council would be prepared to give
their consent to the proposed license.
Preston. — Messrs. Latimer Clark, Muirhead, and Co.
are now busily engaged at Preston putting down the
central station plant for the National Electric Supply
Company. A suitable site has been acquired, and the
power will be generated by means of 10 engines and
dynamos and five boilers, sufficient for the supply of 50,000
8-c.p. lamps. The engines will be of the vertical type,
coupled direct to Clark-Muirhead's Westminster dynamos.
Lancashire multitubular boilers will be used. The three-
wire system, at 200 volts, will be used for distributing, the
mains being laid in shallow iron culverts under the foot-
path. The station will be ready for supply in August, and
the price charged will be 8d. per unit. The Preston
Corporation have entered into a contract to take the light-
ing of the whole of Fishergate, the principal thoroughfare,
and other streets will doubtless be lighted in the same way.
Bradford Reduoes the Rate. — We are extremely
pleased to see that at the meeting of the Bradford Town
Council on Tuesday, on the recommendation of the Gas
and Electricity Supply Committee, it was decided to reduce
the price charged for electricity from 6d. to 5d. per unit as
from the Ist inst. Having gone rapidly forward from
making a slight loss to making a considerable profit
over expenditure, Bradford has seen its way to reduce
still further its already cheap rate for electric lighting.
Taking all outgoings into consideration, this price of
5d. per unit will mean that the actual ''sheer coet
of manufacture " is only about half this, say 2^d. per unit.
Bradford has now the satisfaction of having one of the most
economical stations and the lowest rate of charge in the
kingdom, and bears out abundantly our contention, that the
best policy of a corporation is to own their central electric
station.
Coventry. — At the meeting of the Coventry City Council
on Tuesday, the Mayor presented a report from the Electric
Light Committee, recommending the high-tension system
for adoption in Coventry. The advantages which decided
the committee in the recommendation of this system were
that the generating station might be placed in any part of
the city or suburbs ; there would be a great saving in the
first cost on account of the smaller mains required, and
should a refuse destructor be erected the two might be
placed side by side, and the heat from the destructor used
as part of that required in the boilers of the generating
machinery. He added that before long they would be in a
position to give the inhabitants a good light, which would
certainly be very advantageous in many departments of
trade. He moved the adoption of the report, which was
seconded by Mr. Thomas, and after a long discussion
adopted.
Bradford Bleotrio Cars. — A very successful trial
trip was made with Mr. Holroyd Smith's electric car at
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRlL 15, 1892.
363
Bradford on Tuesday. Since the preliminary trial the
overhead wires have been altered at the curve, and the car
rounded the turn with ease. Three trials were made, the
ascent and descent to Manor Bow being made with ease
and safety. The method of taking off the current has been
modified, the cross-bar used at first has been* changed to the
trolley pole with grooved pulley, making better contact.
The trials were witnessed by several members of the Tram-
ways Committee and Mr. J. H. Cox, the borough surveyor,
and gave general satisfaction. In one of the trials over
30 persons rode in the car, and there was no diminution of
speed compared with that when a lighter car went up the
incline. The motive power was about 300 volts. It is
expected that at an early date Major-General Hutchinson,
of the Board of Trade, will come down and inspect the
line.
Exeter.— At the Exeter City Council Mr. Perry is to
move : "That in view of the Exeter Electric Lighting Com-
pany placing the whole of their \vires underground, the
time has now arrived for the reconsideration of the question
of lighting the main streets with electricity, and that the
surveyor be instructed to prepare a report as follows :
1. Giving the present annual cost of lighting the streets
within the area set out in the second schedule to the
Exeter Electric Lighting Company's provisional order.
2. To prepare a plan showing the number and power of
electric lamps required for the same area. 3. To prepare
an estimate of the first cost of lighting. 4. To obtain from
the Exeter Electric Lighting Company an estimate of the
cost per annum for the supply of light as per plan. 5. Any
other information that may assist the Council in coming to
a decision." The Exeter Electric Light Company have
already given the Council a month's notice of their inten-
tion to place their wires underground.
Nottingham. — The specially appointed Electric Light-
ing Committee of the Nottingham Town Council have
decided, understands the Nottingham Daily Ev^ress^ to
commence an installation for lighting by electricity within
a prescribed area, which includes the Market-place and
surrounding thoroughfares. A competent electrical engi-
neer has been advertised for in order to advise upon and
carry out works necessary. After visits paid to Newcastle,
London, Sheffield, and elsewhere, the various systems
which obtain have been discussed and considered. The
result of these deliberations shows that within a limited
area, the system most favoured is the low -tension system
This is regarded as being suitable for any area not exceed-
ing a radius of more than one mile from the central distri-
buting station. For longdistance transmission experts
advise the high-tension system. It is thought that under
present known conditions (allowing for the present low
price of gas in Nottingham) the cost of electric lighting
would be about double that of illumination by gas.
The LaniTen-Frankfort Transmission. — Dr. Julius
Maier writes on Wednesday to the Tiines that he had
received the following' telegram from Mr. Sonnemann, the
president of the late Frankfort Exhibition : " Official
report of testing committee gives mean efficiency in Frank-
fort at full load 74 per cent., where loss of energy in
dynamo, 8 to 10 per cent, included; from this results
for transmission proper to secondary transformer at
the exhibition a mean efficiency of from 80 to
82 per cent.'' It is gratifying to note that the minute
investigations of the testing committee bear out the state-
ment of the Times correspondent, who from his personal in-
vestigations gave the efficiency as not less than 75 per cent
" The result obtained in the Lauffen- Frankfort experiment,"
adds Dr. Maier, " is magnificent. It surpasses even the
most sanguine expectations, and removes any doubt, if
doubt still existed, as to the practical feasibility of electric
power transmission over a long distance. It is impossible
to foresee the far-reaching consequences of this experiment ;
it is destined to revolutionise all our industrial methods,
and to lead to a general utilisation of natural forces now
running to waste."
Electrical Measurement. — ^An interesting paper on
*' The Measurement of Electricity," was delivered before a
recent meeting of the Dumbarton Philosophical Society by
Mr. Malcolm Sutherland, head of the electrical staff in
Messrs. William Denny and Bros., of Leven Shipyard.
He explained, with the aid of specimen apparatus, the
nature of electrolysis and the method of standardising for
calibrating the various instruments employed in electrical
measurement. The latter were described under three
classes — viz., those controlled by gravity, by elasticity, and
by magnetism. Amongst the instruments most fully
described were the Siemens dynamometer and the Thomson
mirror and graded galvanometer. Voltmeters, both current
and electrostatic, were then described, and the paper wound
up with an elaborate description of the ordinary electric
meter in its various forms now in use for measuring
the quantity of electrical energy used during any given
time. The author affirmed that, in spite of the multi-
plicity of meters already brought out and of patents
applied for, there was still a decided want for a really good
simple and cheap meter, and that a fortune awaited the
inventor of an article meeting these requirements.
Copper Mains. — ^A handy pocket table, for which we
have been looking for some time, has been sent to us by
Messrs. Fowler and Lancaster, being '^ Curves, Tables, and
Simple Rules relating to Copper Conductors," by K W.
Lancaster (price Is.). It consists of a sheet folded in
four, and pasted on a stiff back. The first page is a
table of particulars, giving current-carrying capacity at
1,000 and 800 amperes per square inch, pounds per
yard, yards per pound, diameter, resistance, and yards
per ohm. The third and fourth pages give curves ;
in the first place, "curves showing gauge of conductor
required to carry a given current, the fall of potential
per 100 yards being specified " ; and in the second place,
"curves showing gauge of conductor of given length
required to carry a given current at a fall of potential of
one volt" Page 2 gives examples of calculations. By these
curves and tables the cable to carry a given number of lamps
at given fall of potential to a given distance can easily be
worked out Long-distance transmission conductors can
also be calculated, and problems as regards current density
for given conditions. It is seldom we see such useful
material in such a compact and convenient form at so cheap
a price.
Hnddersfield. — An enquiry was held at Huddersfield
last week by Mr. R. Walton, M.I.G.E., relative to an appli-
cation by the Huddersfield County Council for sanction to
borrow £50,000 for electric lighting purposes. The town
clerk (Mr. H. Barber) stated that on the 6th April last year
the County Council applied to the Local Oovernment Board
for sanction to borrow. The Board of Trade issued two
electric lighting orders for the borough in 1890, the second
in August of that year, and by that order it was provided
that the Council should commence the works in the com-
pulsory area within two years of that date. The area of
supply is the whole of the borough, with the exception of
one portion, which was added after the order was made —
namely, the extensive district of Longwood. Mr. A. B.
Mountain, the electrical engineer, produced plans of the
generatmg station, which will be in St Andrew's-road.
There would be provision for 6,660 ai^hl"flMMUt light in-
candeaoent lamps. Th«^
364
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 15, 189^
Brush Company'a make. There was no opposition to the
project. On the proposal of the Mayor, seconded by the
ex-Mayor, the inspector was thanked ; and, in reply, he said
that as the matter was of an argent nature he should do
his best to expedite matters. It is understood that the
Corporation have made arrangements to lease some land in
St. Andrew's-road for 999 years at a yearly rental.
Crompton-Howell AooniniilatorB. — " The outcome
of eight years' continuous thought and study,' says the
catalogue of the Crompton-Howell Electric Storage Com-
(Mtny, " the cells have now attained such a high state of
efficiency that they are being largely adopted in England
and other parts of the world, and since this perfection of
manufacture has been reached, no single instance of break-
down or injury to the cells has occurred." The process
invented by Mr. Howell is of producing lead plates from
blocks which are cast at a temperature when the lead is
just at the point of crystallisation, resulting in blocks of " lead
sponge," which are sawn up into plates and formed. After
five or six years' working these plates appear to remain in
as good a condition as when first put to work, and can be
submitted to very rough usage without deterioration. They
are more particularly useful for large sets, such as for
central station lighting, for which purpose at Kensington and
elsewhere they have had a long trial. The maintenance, it
is stated, has only cost the users from 1 to 5 per cent., and
the company will undertake maintenance contracts at rates,
varying according to circumstances, from 5 per cent, and
upwards per annum. The watt efficiency, according to
Prof. Kennedy, is 86 5 per cent, and the ampere efficiency
95 to 96 per cent., and these results are calculated from
the switchboard terminals — that is, including the connecting
resistances. The catalogue contains illustrations of the
cells and a number of testimonials and reporter, besides
reference to users and full lists of prices. It is evidently a
catalogue that every electric lighting engineer should have
at his side for reference.
Glasgow. — At the meeting of the Glasgow Town
Council on 7th inst. the minutes of the Electric Lighting
Committee were discussed. The report stated that the
meeting of the Sub-Committee on Electric Lighting held
on 30th March, agreed to recommend that after 31st
May next the charge for electricity supplied be at the
rate of 7d. per unit net to all customers. There was
submitted and read a letter, dated 26th ult., from the
Secretary of the Board of Trade, intimating that the
Board propose to limit their approval of the high-pressure
system of supply of electricity by aerial wires to one year
from that date. At a meeting of the Sub-Committee on
Contracts held on 5th inst., the sub-committee resolved
to recommend acceptance of "the offer, dated 4th April,
by Messrs. Latimer Clark, Muirhead, and Co., provided satis-
factory detailed drawings are submitted to the Corporation.
Bailie J. H. Martin asked whether it would not have been
possible for the committee to have taken separate contracts
for the engines, dynamos, and wires. It was peculiar that
in the city of Glasgow, where there was ao much engineer-
ing skill, they should have to go to London for engines for
the electric work. Mr. Ure said that the amount of the
contract was £12,900, and the next offer, which was by
Messrs. Mavor and Coulson, was £500 higher, and the
others ranged up to £18,000. As to dividing the contracts,
they had done so as far as was possible, but they felt they
ought to have one responsible firm. With regard to the
" engines," Mr. Ure is reported to have said — though we
suppose he means dynamos — Messrs. Latimer Clark, Muir-
head, and Co. were most successful makers. Not much
machinery for electric lighting had been made in Glasgow.
At the meeting on Monday the Corporation decided to I
light the streets by means of 106 arc lamps at £20, being
£2,120, to which must be added a capiUl outlay of £2,500
for fittings, making the annual cost £2,371. The extended
gas would cost £1,627, so that there is an addition of about
£740 a year for about ten times the light.
BlaokpooL— The minutes of the Blackpool Electric
Lighting Committee presented at last week's Town Council
meeting, were as follows : " Resolved, that the chairman
(Councillor Pearson) and the town clerk be desired on behalf
of this committee, to confer with the Markets and Gas Com-
mittee in reference to this committee obtaining tests of the
electric lighting on the Promenade, and also as to how far
the present electric lighting on the Promenade can be made
available in further lighting of the borough by electricity ;
also that a circular be issued to the public for the
purpose of ascertaining the public requirements for
electric lighting in Blackpool." In discussing these
minutes, the Mayor suggested that Mr. Councillor
Pearson should inform the Council of the progress the
committee had made in their investigations. Mr.
Councillor Pearson said he was sorry that the report of
their investigations could not be submitted to that meeting.
The report, as a matter of fact, had been ready for some
time, but it had seemed to the committee that it would
be purposeless to submit the report to the Council
unless accompanied by some recommendation. The com-
mittee had not been idle, and inasmuch as the matter was
full of difficulties, he hoped that the Council would see its
way to support the committee when they did submit their
report. The committee was only appointed on December 1,
and since then most exhaustive investigations had been
made. The full committee met two or three times a week
to interview some of the most important electrical engi-
neers in the country. He hoped that by the next Council
meeting the committee would be prepared with their report
and recommendations, with an estimate for the scheme to
be submitted for approval. The matter was an important
one, and a large amount of money would be asked for to
carry out the work. In the meantime, he assured them
that the members of the committee were doing everything
in their power to push on the scheme, and they did not
intend to waste a day unnecessarily. The minutes were
then passed.
Eleotrio Tog Annihilator. — Everyone who has wit-
nessed the experiments which Mr. J. W. Swan is fond of
showing to visitors to Bromley — the smoke deposition
experiments of Dr. Oliver Lodge — must have inevitably
had the idea that possibly some actual use might eventually
be made of electricity for dispersing fogs. The following
note from the Philadelphia Ledger, if a little '* tall," bears
promise of some actual utility in this direction : " An
inventor, who claims to have an invention which will
overcome fog, is now in New York perfecting details of
his remarkable discovery. Experiments which have been
secretly made at Sandy Hook and in Boston Harbour are
said to have been successful. The business man of the fog
annihilator is M. E. Johnson, a capitalist, whose home is in
Pittsburg. * The force used,' Mr. Johnson says, * is a form
of electrical discharga. The effect is in direct ratio to the
intensity of the fog — that is, the denser the fog the more
easily it is affected by the discharge. The consequence is
that with a dense fog a larger area can be cleared with the
release of the same amount of energy. There is no
electric spark to be seen, and no detonation or explo-
sion accompanies the discharge. The largest area we
have been able to practically clear by one discharge
has been 70,500 square feet, nearly two acres, which is
approximately 150ft in every direction from the site of
the discharge. This was done in Boston Harbour. With
tfiE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, At>RIL 15, 1892.
365
greater energy, such as will readily be obtainable on ocean
Bteamshipe, many times that area can be cleared. The fog
falls in the form of rain. The atmosphere of the cleared
area is exceedingly clear, just the same as it is after a rain
in summer. The period of absolute absence from fog
is merely momentary in duration. The fog immediately
begins to form and to drift in from surrounding areas.
This takes pUce so rapidly that within five minutes the
original condition prevails. In our experiments in Boston
Harbour seven minutes elapsed before the fog re-formed. It
is, of course, impossible to obliterate the fog, but by a suc-
cession of discharges at intervals of two minutes it keeps
the area I have referred to practically clear.' In conclusion
Mr. Johnson said : * We did not wish to apply for patents
until we were sure the fog-destroyer would be successful.
Now there can be no doubt as to its efficiency. Before
long the apparatus will be a part of the equipment of
the transatlantic liners.' "
Barton. — At the monthly meeting of the Burton Town
Council, held on the 6th inst., the Gas and Electric Light
Committee presented their report, which dealt chiefly with
a recommendation for the acceptance of the joint tender of
Messrs. John Fowler and Co., of Leeds, and Messrs.
Hammond and Co., of London, for the plant (exclusive of
building) for the installation of the electric light into the
borough, subject to the approval of the Board of Trade.
Alderman Lowe moved the adoption of the report, and said,
with regard to the electric lighting, the committee believed
they were putting the work into the hands of two good firms,
who would carry it out in an efficient and satisfactory manner.
When advertising for tenders they instructed the gas works
manager to prepare specifications and conditions on a broad
basis, so as to leave the system of installation entirely for
the tenderers to suggest the one which they thought most
suitable for the requirements of the town. The result was
that they received 16 tenders, 13 being on the high-tension
alternating-current transformer system, and the remainder
on the continuous-current system, with transformer sub-
stations and storage batteries. One of the firms who
tendered for the latter admitted that it would be
impossible to adopt the continuous system at Burton
except at an enormous figure. After very careful
enquiry they had come to the conclusion that that
was a perfectly accurate statement, and they had agreed
to adopt the high-tension alternating- current trans-
former system. The tenders were reduced to two, and
those they now recommended were unanimously selected.
The committee had throughout been guided by a desire
solely of getting the very best system and firm, and they
recommended both for the acceptance of the Council with
every confidence. In the course of their enquiries they
were informed without exception that the cost of
electricity as compared with gas for an illuminant
was high, so that they had no reason to fear that
the gas works were likely to sufier by its introduction
into the town ; as it was believed that for many years to
come, at any rate, electricity would be used as a lighting
agent by only those who could afford to pay for the luxury.
Councillor Graham seconded, but took a more hopeful view
than Alderman Lowe as to the popularity of the electric
light, and predicted that 40 years hence gas would be as
old fashioned as oil lamps are now. He had hoped that
they would have been able to use the water power of the
town, and so reduced the working expenses. After some
further discussion as to the effect of electricity upon the
price of gas, the report was adopted.
Swinburne High-Tension Apparatus. — We have
received from Messrs. Swinburne and Co. an invitation to
visit experiments with their 130,000-volt transformers ^at
the Crystal Palace, for the evening of Wednesday. As
our day for going to press, owing to the holidays, falls on
that evening, we cannot describe the actual experiments
carried out, but we give the following interesting descrip-
tion of the behaviour of the apparatus which Messrs.
Swinburne have been kind enough themselves to furnish :
" The subject of high pressures, or * tensions,' and their
practicability for transmission of power to long distances
is rapidly coming to the front, and it is therefore becoming
a matter of serious importance to ascertain the phenomena
of high-tension currents, and especially the insulating
powers of different subjects under these high pressures.
In view of this fact, and also of the fact that we
are now being required to make 30,000 and 40,000
volt transformers for some of the large cable com-
panies to test their cables with, we decided to try and
construct a transformer to give an enormously higher
pressure than any hitherto attempted. The result has
exceeded our most sanguine anticipations, and we show at
the Crystal Palace a transformer taking 50 h.p. and giving
130,000 volts — a pressure nearly three times higher than
that obtained in the transformer which created such a
sensationattheFrankfort Exhibition last year,and nowbeing
shown in another part of this building. We do not think we
have by any means reached the limit of possible pressures which
may be employed. In fact, we believe this present transformer
could be safely run up to at least 160,000 and possibly
200,000 volts. In order to better realise what this enor-
mous pressure means, we would point out that by using our
transformer at its full power we could transmit 50 h.p. —
that is to say, sufficient power to drive a large factory
through a wire no thicker than a hair. The following are
some of the more striking experiments which illustrate the
properties of these enormous pressures. When the electrodes
connected with the transformer are brought within some 6in.
a discharge takes place with some noise, and a snake-like arc
remains between them. The electrodes can now be separated
some feet before the arc ceases. The arc twists and writhes
about owing to the mutual repulsion of its successive
portions. The insulating power of anything is merely a
matter of degree, and many substances which are considered
periect insulators for all ordinary pressures become
nothing more or less than conductors at these high voltages.
Slate is generally considered a first-class insulator. With
100,000 volts, however, it may be considered a conductor,
and can be used in place of carbon to form the electrodes
in an arc lamp; or a bar of it may be used to carry
current as if it were a copper rod. One of the most
curious experiments consists in subjecting a yard
or so of deal board to the high pressure. Small sparks
seems to run about erratically in the interior of the wood,
and at last the circuit is completed by the charred wood.
An arc is then formed, which leaves the wood and wriggles
about in the air above it with a roaring sound. Beautiful
effects are also produced by passing the arc through blocks
of table salt or marble. The most striking experiment,
the electric octopus, is produced by placing a large
pane of glass between the electrodes. There is a
crackling discharge all over the glass. This must be
seen, as it cannot be described. The glass is eventually
pierced, and the hole is immediately melted up again by
the intense heat. Apart from experimental interest, these
high pressures show what can be done. At 130,000 volts
it is possible to pass a small current through a man, and to
transform it down and run a 2-h.p. motor. This experi-
ment, however, is not performed. With a pressure of
130,000 volts the transformer could work a 50-h.p. motor
placed in America through a wire a tenth of an inch
diameter with a loss of only 2 h.p. on the way./
366
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 15, 1892.
LIST OF DETAILS OF DIRECT-CORRENT DYNAMOS AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE, 1892.
Maher, or n&me of eibibitor.
tialape'd
The Brush Company ..
Crompion and Co. .
Easton artd Anderson..
Gooldea and Co.
Tha Gulcher Compiuiy ..
J. H. Holmes and Co. ..
JohoBOD and Phillipa
Laurence, Scott, and Co. .
n Electrical Engineering Company
The Roper Electrical Engineering Company
Ronald Scobt and Co
Siemens Bros, and Co
Victoria Brush
Two double horseshoe
Ikmble
Two single
Double
Manchester type
Inverted single horseshoe
Double horseshoe
Upright single horseshoe
Eight-pole internal typet
Inverted single horseBboe
Four-pole internal type
Inverted single horseshoe
Four-pole internal
Inverted single borBasboe
Four- pole internal
Upright single horseshoe
Inverted ,, „
Upright ,, ,,
i See illustration
Disc
Ring
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
DIRECT-CURBENT DYNAMOS.- IV.
BY R. \V. WKEKES, WHIT.SCH.
The mowr-generator made| by the Electric OonBtniction
Corporation has many points
and dynamo working in a commoii field. The armatare
core is built up as shown in Fig. 13, except thftt
there are two channels at each end to carry the con-
nections. Then two distinct sets of wires are wound on,
one of 648 turns of fine wire, and the other of 72 turns of
thick conductor, counting all round the circumference.
The {ratio of the turns is 1,000 to 111, allowing nearly
Electric Construction Corporati
as It cannot lie classed with the dynamos it will bo well to I 1 per cent, for loss in the armature resistance. The fine wire
consider its construction first. This machine is accurately forms the motor circuit, the high-tension current supplied
described by its name, and is essentially a distinct motor [ to it driving the armature, and the other conductors act as
THE ELECTRICAL BNaiNEER, APRIL 15, 1892. 36?
LI81
OF DETAILS OP DIBECT-CURRENT DYNAMOS AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE, 1892.
Weight
in tons.
Floor space.
Armature.
KUowBtta
KLowatW
per ton at
per«iiiBre
foot of fioor
Core.
Conductor.
Belt driven.
Direct
driven.
-peed.
2,000^ cir-
cumferentUI
speed.
Belt
Diam.
inchM.
.ss.
Depth
inches
Number
at turns.
ft. in. ft. ID.
ft. in. ft. in.
8 8x2 8
4 6x76
20
3-01
16
214
128
3 3x3 0
11
111
20
5
H
Hound.
CromptoD bwv.
20
31
178
»l
10
120
10-5
2-14
14
14
*i
120
■05 gq. in.
tectaogukr
n
324
-0113 sq. in.
4 3x2 0
1-18
lOJ
14
6 6x29
0-96
5
5
160
itedanealat
11}
272
16
4-52
3
362
9'4
1-91
16
2
162
J(-270 X 035
0-65
2
2 8x16
9 7
1-51
9
9
228
(170 X 105
2 8x26
125
1-88
121
8
—
» 3 x2 0
—
215
H
7i
—
—
—
—
_
_
_
4 6x2 6
_
2-40
13
164
_
_
_
_
8
1-31
11
144
1-75
— 4 .1 X 2 0
16-2
3-65
Hi
18
192
— '6 9x6 0
122
4-08
34
— ' 4 6 X 2 10
22
5-00
14
20
— ! 4 U X 2 10
13-6
3-40
15
19
—
- 14 3x4 0
1
16
3-01
16
20
-
-
~
Cromptonbw
in kQ ordinary dynamo. The field magnets have two sets I undue rush of curreDt, is at the central station. The arma-
of coils on them— one a series winding in the high-tension I ture running in a weak field soon attains a higher speed
Crompton and Co.
circuit, and the other a shunt to tiie low-tension circuit. I than required, but as soon as the secondary excites, the field
When starting, the lamp circuit is broken and the machine 1 is strengthened by the shunt coils and the working speed is
ii started as a leries motor. The rheostat, to prerent an I obtained The load is then switched on from the central
368
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 15, 1892.
U8T OF DBTAILS OF DIRECT-CURRKNT DYNAMOS AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE, 1892.
Commutator.
Field magnets.
Magnetisation in C.G.S.
lines per square centimetre.
liaktr, or name
of exhibitor.
•a •
11
Material.
Brushes.
Section of
bars.
Total lines
from one
Induc-
tion in
the ar-
Useful
ind'ct'n
in the
Remarks.
Num-
ber.
Size.
Material.
v^u tihick-
^^^' ness.
pair of
poles.
mature
mVn'ts
BroahCo
Copper
2
m. in.
If X i
Copper gauze
in. in.
W.I.*
tt« ■•••■•• m.M m m m
2
2x1
^^^
• a
^^^
_^
ft
_
>f
Copper plates
—
»i
....
—
—
A.
Cromptonand Co..
107
Cast copper
3
2 X i
>f
14 X 12
W.I.
9,400,000
12,500
8,700
—
f>
64
ft
—
—
6 bars 6x6
t)
31,600,000
13,000
11,200
—
»•
90
>»
2
n xg
Copper plates
7i X 4
it
—
—
—
B.
>>
Easton k Anderson
89
Drawn copper
3
2 X §
Copper gauze
—
W.I.*
9,910|000
..^
—>
C.
»f
60
ft
3
H xi
>>
—
>)
6|460,000
—
—
C.
Soott and Mountain
^
»)
2
li X fV
Brass gauze
ft
—
—
—
Blec. Con. Corpn..
60
Cast copper
3
2 X v\
Copper gauze
14 X 7 W.I.
9,500,000
15,000
—
—
>>
/ 36
\162
■ t
3
2 X 1
>»
20 X 12
tt
19,000,000
16,000
12,400
}!>.
Goolden and Co. ..
n
2
2 X i
Copper gauze
—
W.I.
—
—
OnlcherCo
80
Brass
2
2 X i
Brass gauze
circular bars
W.L*
17,100,000
12|700
—
J. H. Hohnes ft Co.
74
Drawn copper
—
—
Copper gauze
10 dia.
>i
6,000,000
16,300
11,800
Johnion k Phillipe.
181
i»
4
li xH
Brass gauze
16 dia.
C.I.*
7,000,000
10,600
5,400
»
81
i>
2
i>
15 X 5i
W.I.
7,600,000
15,300
13,800
$9
51
>f
1
ijx A
>>
10^ X 5
C.I.
2,040,000
—
6,100
E.
99
67
II
2
1 xl
IJxl
>«
8^ X 5
W.L
3,000,000
16,400
llidOO
—
Lanrenoe-Soott ...
—
Cast copper
2
Copper eftuze
—
C.I.
—
—
C.
II
60
If
11
W.L*
mtm^m
—
—
C.
Laing- Wharton ...
—
A
—
—
<—
—
—
Newton Eng. Co...
— ■
2
—
Copper gauze
15i X 7
W.L
•—
—
—
—
Roper Eng. Co
72
Cast copper
3
14 xi
»)
9x9
C.I.
3,700,000
—
7|100
—
Ronald Scott k Co.
96
Cast phosphor bronze
2
2 X A
Brass gauze
19 X 7
W.L
9,250,000
—
10,800
—
Siemens Bros
—
3
4 (2 X i)
Copper gauze
34 X 16^
—
—
—
•1
—
—
—
_- .
Copper wire
ish their elec
— —
—
—
—
•>
Messr
s. Siemens Bros, an
d Co.
do not w
trical details publi
shed.
—
—
~—
»
^—
—~
-^
—
Copper wire
19 X 9^
W.L
~~~
~~
^^^"
A. Brush open-coil arc lighting dynamo.
D. Motor-generator. E. Arc lightmg dynamo.
B. Arc lighting dynamo, constant current. C. Armature with toothed core.
* With cast-iron pole-pieces.
station by means of an electromagnet in the pilot wire
circuit. The series winding regulates the P.D. m these
mains, acting like the compound winding in a motor.
This machine has many peculiar advantages, and is not
subject to some of the disadvantages of large two-pole
dynamos. The resultant armature reaction is practically
nU, as the current volume in the motor circuit is only
slightly in excess of that in the generator circuit, and acts
in the opposite direction. This effects three radical
improvements :
1. The lead to the brushes does not vary with the load ;
2. The field is not weakened by the armature current ;
3. The field is not distorted, and hence the Foucault-
current loss in the conductors is constant, and does not
increase as the load increases.
The fact that the motor armature conductors drive the
generating wire was mentioned and explained last week.
The e£Sciency claimed for this machine is high, being 87
per cent, at half load, and 92 per cent, at full load. It is
interesting to note the similarities of this machine and an
alternating-current transformer. The armature of the
motor-generator will act as an alternating-current trans-
former, and the distinctive difference between the two is
that in the direct-current transformers the fluctuation of
induction is produced by movement of the iron, and that
the currents are commutated to make their directions
constant
I propose to give the adjoining list of dynamos and their
details before going on to the description of the various
types and their respective advantages. It will then be
handy for reference and for comparing the details of the
sevend machines.
The first five columns of the list need no comment. In
the sixth I have reduced the circumferential speed of the
core to 2,000ft per minute, and then obtained the output
of the dynamos on the assumption that the E.M.F. alone
variesj and that as the speed. This is not absolutely
correct^ as with the higher speed the cooling surface on the
armature is more effective, and so a larger current can be
obtained without increasing the rise of temperature. It is,
however, a good approximation, and as the circumferential
speeds of the machines lie on each side of this, it is the
best that can be taken.
In the next column the type of field magnet is given.
There will also be illustrations of each type appearing
either in this issue or the next, to which reference can
easily be made. In the weight efficiency column is given
the number of kilowatts obtained from each tm of
material when the circumferential speed is 2,000ft per
minute. It is interesting to note that small beltdriven
machines stand highest in this respect Messrs. Easton and
Anderson take the first place. This is due to the fact that
they require a small magnetising force, and consequently
short magnets, in their dynamdl. On the whole, the outputs
per weight obtained agree very closely. Messrs. Orompton
and Go. obtain the highest output per weight in the large
dynamos, but the eight-pole machine made by Messrs. Johnson
and Phillips is near them, and this dynamo has cast-iron
field magnets. The multipolar machines thus give high
weight efficiencies, and it is interesting to note in the
two-pole machine made by Messrs. Siemens Bros, how
the weight efficiency falls with the increased output The
output in kilowatts per square foot of floor space is given
in the next column. In taking the floor space I measured
always the extreme breadth and width. In the case of
coupled plant I took the length from the end up to the
middle of the coupling, and in the belt-driven machines up
to the pulley. These square dimensions make the results
too low for a few dynamos, but gives on the whole the
most useful information. Messrs. Siemens Bros, and Co.
obtain the highest figure in this floor space efficiency with
their 23-kilowatt machine, and Messrs. Johnson and Phillips
take the second place with their large dynamo. There is
much more variation amongst the figures in this column
than in the last, and I shall refer to it again when con-
sidering the different types. It must be borne in mind
that the outputs on which these calculations are based are
those given by the makers, and arbitrarily fixed by them.
Therefore they do not necessarily correspond to the same
ultimate rise of temperature in the armature. This rise
should be the basis of comparison, and I hope that the jury
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 15, 1892.
369
of ezperta vill puUUh information that will lead to the
ad^tion of definite Btandards of ontput.
Tbe only other detaili requiring comment are the last
three columns. The total induction at full load ia calcu-
lated in every case where the number of turns are given.
The induction per square centimetre in the armature core
hu in each case been calcnlated by myself upon the details
given to me by the makers. This » only approximate,
as the allowance made for ventilation and paper or ehoUac,
etc, varies with different firms, and I may have allowed too
much or too little. The leakage of magnetism also is
different for different types of field magnets, and so I have
In 1662 the incandescent lamp had only recently beeo
born, and though largely exhibited was yet very expensive,
very uncertain, and could boast of only one form — the
Elain 20^!.p. type, with platinum loops. To-day, the glow
hmp is everywhere in evidence, is used without fear of
being left in the dark, and is made in every form that the
wit of man has so far been able to devise.
To-day, too, in place of modestly showing itself with
deference to its earlier rival — the arc lamp — it is boldly
invading the domain hitherto solely occupied by the arc
itself. In those days — the gas shares had but recently
recovered from the severe panic which ensued on Mr.
.lohnutn and PhiUipe' S pol« Dynamo
not introduced it into my calculations for this list. The
figures given in the last column show the density of useful
lines in the field By useful lines, I mean the lines which
actually pass through the armature To obtain the real
induction in the magnets, the values given would have to
be increased by from 15 to 50 per cent., according to the
type.
1882—1892 : A COMPARISON.
BY SYDNEY F. WALKKR.
To those who can remember the exhibition which was
held at the Crystal Palace in 1862, the present one will
afford matter of considerable interest.
Edison's announcement that he had solved the problem of
the division of the electnc light, and gas managers had
seen fit to put their house m order — gas was still king Oas
managers laughed heartily at the recent scare, and boldly
declared that the electric light could never displace them.
" We can give away the gas we make and yet pay a good
dividend," they said. Now gas undertakings all over the
country, the wisest of them, are seeking to get themselves
bought up by local authorities while there is yet time.
Oas directors and gas managers still talk of the absurdity
ol being driven off the fidd by electricity, but they no
longer sneer at the rival illuminant — whether they acknow-
ledge it or not, the handwriting is on the wall. Oas has
been tried in the balance and found wanting. Stranger
still, the very failing with which electric lights were branded
370
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 16, 1892.
in early days (their constant habit of flickering) has been
turned against gas itself. The light given by the glow
lamp is preferred, not only for the parity of the atmosphere
its use entails, but more for its steadiness.
In 1882 gas always accompanied the electric light,
because the latter was so liable to go out, and it was on
gas that managers relied for illumination. To-day, you
will still see gas burners here and there where the glow
lamp has been adopted, but it is in an even more modest
form than its rival assumed 10 years ago. Gas may be
seen in some out-of-the-way position where it can be
brought into use in case of accident. Few of those who
were engaged in electric lighting work in those days dared
to hope for the advances that have been made in the past
10 years.
Massing on, however, from the improvements that have
been made in glow-lamp work, one cannot but be struck
with the small comparative advances that have been made
in arc lights. It is true they do not now go out altogether,
nor is it often that even an individual lamp becomes
extinguished in any installation that is well looked after.
But the lamps themselves flicker even more, one and all,
than the best arc lamps did as far back as 12 years ago.
The lamps have been improved, it is true. They are made
and designed better than in days gone by, but they are
still very unsteady. If anyone doubts this, let him sit for
half an hour in any place illuminated entirely by arc
lamps, and watch the behaviour of each lamp. Audiences
do not notice it possibly, though some complain of the
unsteadiness very much. In the majority of cases, though,
the great volume of light given masks the unsteadiness of
individual lamps, but- it is apparent to anyone who has
eyes to see. Let any unprejudiced observer note this fact,
note the growing favour with which the soft steady glow
lamp is being received, and then read the future history of
electric lighting. Once more, the handwriting is on the
wall. In the rapid march of the electrical revolution now
in progress, older ideas must go under ; tools that have
done good service in their day must be displaced by later
and more improved ones. If gas must go— and that is as
certain as anything can be in this world — so must the arc
lamp.
Looking back once more to the days of the last exhibition
at the Crystal Palace, then the compound- wound dynamo
was also but just coming into being. It was even thought
in those days that for glow-lamp work the shunt- wound
dynamo would be the machine 'par txcdlmce. If the shunt-
wound machine had a rival, it was the alternator. Ten years
have wrought curious changes in these as in other points.
The shunt-wound machine and the alternator have both
E'ven place to the compound-wound dynamo for all but
rge supply stations. For the latter shunt-wound machines
and alternators rule, but the alternator is not the machine
of 10 years ago. The alternator of 10 years ago is dead,
except a few specimens, but in its place has arisen a giant
bearing the same name.
One cannot help according a tribute to the foresight of
Mr. Edison on the matter of shunt-wound machines for
central stations. As we know, his ideas of 10 years back
were worked out for central stations, and were carried into
practice by him in his own district. In this country we
were not ready for central stations in 1882. Even Mr.
Edison's own exhibit at the Holborn Viaduct did not
impress us ; and the small copies, the applications of parts
of the system to small installations, were necessarily
doomed to failure. To-day, the supply companies which
pay the best use Edison's system, with the addition of
storage batteries.
Storage batteries, too, in 1882 had been recently boomed,
have since afibrded a good financial harvest to individual
speculators ; have been ridiculed as failures, and are now
rearing their heads once more as the result of years of hard
Crsistent labour upon them. To-day, though the storage
tteries in the market leave much to be desired, we yet
have them doing active practical work, and, what is more,
earning money for those who employ them.
In the 10 years that are past, though the arc lamp
proper has remained, the lamp which at one time
threatened to extinguish it has itself met that fate.
Jablochkofi^s candle can be seen occasionally as a rare
curiosity. Jamin's candle has gone, Wilde's has too, and
so has La Soleil. Yet, strangely enough, out of the ashes
of Jablochkofl's undoubtedly remarkable invention arises
the apparatus with which one section of electrical engineers
are meeting the problem of distribution over large areas,
and meeting it successfully, too, so far as work goes.
Possibly dividends may come after. Who would have
supposed that when Jablochkofl' described his beautiful
apparatus for the subdivision of the electric light — from
which we all hoped so much then, and which wo saw
doomed to failure with feelings of the deepest regret — that
the induction coil, upon which he based his plans, would be
of so much service so many years after % Jablochkofl's in-
vention belongs, of course, to 1878, but his lamp was fully
in evidence in 1882.
During the 10 years, too, what changes have taken
place in the construction of dynamos ! We have seen the
output of old types enormously increased, and the efficiency
of all types steadily rise. Thanks also to Dr. Hopkinson
and Mr. Kapp, we are no longer compelled to plunge
wildly round seeking for experimental fact upon which
to base our construction. We know the laws of our
machines fairly well, and are able to design and construct
them to fulfil most of the requirements that are
asked for. What revolution and counter-revolution has
also taken place in the matter of the speed at which
we should drive the armatures of our dynamos. Shortlv
after 1882 we were assured that high speeds were baa,
irretrievably. It was of no use pointing out that a light
armature might safely be driven at a much higher speed
than a heavy one ; just as a circular saw, or an emery
wheel can be. Circular saws are not dynamos, was our
answer. Dynamos imtsi be driven slowly. Later on, how-
ever, possibly compelled by the exigencies of the market,
the same dictators discovered that it was not economical
to waste metal. If a machine of a given weight came to no
harm when driven faster in the hands of those to whom it
was sold, why not sell it to be driven faster, and so get a
higher price for it ? It is a grave question if the matter of
fast driving has not been carried too far lately, not on the
dynamo, but in the engine. The gentlemen who designed
and constructed many of the engines that are running at the
Crystal Palace may have some wrinkles not possessed by out-
siders, but unless they have, their engines running at the
high speeds shown there are practically sure to give trouble
later on — 300ft. per minute used to be the old rule for the
speed of engine pistons. Excellence of workmanship and
of lubrication have enabled younger engineers to go as far
as 400ft. and even 450ft. per minute, but many of those
shown must be running at very much higher speeds than
are indicated by these figures, and these are looked upon
with considerable fear by older men. If those who have
the designing of these engines will be wise in time, they
will reduce their speeds. It is a good thing, a very good
thing, to drive your dynamo directly from the engine, but
it is not wise to knock your engine to pieces in order to
accomplish this. Better than do that sacrifice something
of the output of the dynamo and lower its speed.
Passing on to other apparatus. What a contrast
between the telephone exhibits in 1882 and those to-day !
One glance at the Consolidated Company's stall will show
the enormous advances that have been made, notwith-
standing all drawbacks, in developing the adaptabihty of
the apparatus. Now you can have a telephonic apparatus
fitted for almost every conceivable position you may find
yourself in.
In 1882 also, it will be remembered, the great fight was
just commencing; now, after it has been fought, the victory
won and used to the full power given, the field is once
more open, and we may hope for larger and larger
developments.
The writer has few more remarks to make. New firms,
and many of them, have sprung into existence since 1882 ;
many of those in existence then are no more. How many
will be still alive in 1902? New forms of gas engines seem
as numerous as new forms of dynamos, and, like the latter,
seem all somehow very much alike, though each claims
some special feature of its own. One great and lung-
desired invention the past decade has not given us — vis.,
an electric miner's lamp. Many are the lamps that have
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 15, 1892.
371
been invented ; none have ao far survived the practical
teat of actual mining work as to warrant their adoption
in large numbers. The writer venturea to offer a
reason for tbis— viz., that those who could produce
auch a lamp have no inducement offered them to leave
other work in order to do so. It is well known
that no invention for an electric miner's lamp can be
held in the face of a long purse oppoaed to it ; conae-
quontly, those who would have a fair chance of siicceas are
content to leave "some other fellow" to invent a lamp,
while they devote their time and money to things that offer
a better prospect. One hint, however, may be given. No
teat that can be applied in London, or in any hands but
those accustomed to mining work, can be of the smallest
value, and any money spent on such tests will be simply
thrown away. Whether the primary or the secondary
battery provea to bo the auccessful one, experience only
can decide. In the writer's opinion, the former has the
best chance.
THE "TIMES" ON PHONOPORIC TEiEPHONY.
An article in Wednesday's Times on this subject ia to
the following effect: "We have upon previous occaaions
noticed the progressive development of that ingenious and
remarkable outcome of electrical reaearch, the phonopore,
which comprises a system of multiplex telegraphy. The
phonopore ia the invention of Mr. La ngd on -Da vies, and
the peculiarity of the instrument is that by it measagea
can be sent and received in either direction simultaneously
with the ordinary telegraph service over the same line and
without affecting or being affected by the working of the
ordinary service, so that two independent services are
worked on one wire. Since our last notice, which appeared
just three years since, considerable advances have been made
in the practical application of the phonopore, it having been
adopted on the Midland, the Great Western, and the Great
Eastern Railways. A contract is also pending tor its adoption
on the Great Northern Railway, and it has been largely
adopted abroad. Since that time also Mr. Langdon-Davies
has developed into practical use a new departure in the appli-
cation of the phonopore to telephonic purposes, and it is in
this connection that we now have to notice it. In order,
however, to ensure a clear understanding of the action of
the phonopore it is necessary to briefly describe its prin-
ciples. It is well known that if a telephone be inserted
in a wire situate near telegraph wires noises are produced
in the telephone by the passing currents in the telegraph
wires, although the telephone wire is perfectly insulated
from the wires of the telegraph. These are the noises
of induction, and in trying to obviate their effects in the
telephone Mr. Langdon-Daviea made the discovery which
led to the invention of the phonopore. fiy means of thia in-
strument be separates induction — whichia a form of electrical
force^rom the currents, and paasea it freely through
insulations which are impassable by currents. He utilises
this force in a novel series of instruments, which are
capable of being put in operation in company with current
instrumente on the same wire. In a word, Mr. Langdon-
Davies most ingeniously collects and utilises what may
be termed the waste products of ordinary telegraphic
currents — namely, noises. The result, which is very
remarkable, is that phonoporic messages are transmitted
and received through an ordinary live wire by the phono-
pore while at the same time telegraphic messages are being
transmitted and received through the same wire by the
ordinary telegraphic apparatus. Nor ia it leas remarkable
that the phonoporic inatrumenta have no metallic con-
ducting circuit through them. The phonopore gives
uninterrupted passage to electrical effects capable of
being aasociatea with sound, although it does not
permit the passage of electric currents. The earlier
announcements of these peculiarities were received not only
with doubt, but with riJicule in electrical circles, with a
few important exceptions. Electricians have, however,
lived to see the adoption of the phonopore for everyday
use, while some of them have reported in the atrongest
terms in favour of ite practical utility,
" The principles of the phonopore having been explained,
we will now consider ita application to telephony. The
example we shall take ia that afforded by the Great
Western Railway, on which line phonoporic telephony
has been applied as a first installation between two signal-
boxes at the Southall and Brentford Stations respec-
tively, their distance apart being about 3^ miles. We
were recently afforded the opportunity of inspecting the
working of this installation by the Phonophore Syndicate,
of Blomtield House, London-wall, London, The striking
feature here is that the telephone is installed on a block
signalling wire, a wire which has hitherto been sacred to
block signalling alone, and very properly ao, inasmuch as
the safe working of a railway depends upon the block wires
being kept absolutely inviolable against all intermption.
But it has long been felt that telephonic communication
was a very desirable thing to have between the signal-
boxes, and railway companies have been using their beat
endeavours to effect this in various ways. As far aa we
are aware, however, they have not been successful, inas-
much as the schemes propounded involve the temporary
interruption of the block wire, and, aa we have
pointed out, this wire must not be interfered with
for a single moment. Hence down to the present
telephonic communication between signal-boxes has
not been established. But the interposition of the phono-
pore has enabled this to be done most effectually, and by
means of this apparatus in connection with the telephone
speaking communication is now maintained between the two
points mentioned, while the wire employed is being used
simultaneously for block signalling purposes without the
two services on the same wire in any way interfering with
each other. This is an entirely new achievement in tele-
graphy, and one which cannot fail to prove of leading
importance to railway companies. This application of the
phonopore to telephony is the first practical outcome of a
long series of results worked out experimentally and success-
fully by Mr. Langdon-Davies five years ago, but which wore
laid aside by him in order that ho might perfect the appli-
cation of the phonopore to telegraphy,"
CORRESPONDENCE.
COMMUTED CURRENTS.
I
Sir, — I have always thought that the expression " con-
tinuous current" is unhappy and incorrect where it ia
applied to a current consisting of a separate impulse from
each coil of the armature on passing the gap, and more
especially from those machines where each coil is cut out
of the circuit on reaching the field-horn after pasaing the
gap. Would not the word "commuted" convey a more
correct idea 1 When a current passes from a primary or
secondary battery, then the current ia, of course, continuous,
and the expreaeion " continuous " is correct. I think a dis-
tinction should be made in describing these two different
currents. They cannot be alike in their action, and
doubtless the delicate filaments in incandescent lamps feel
the difference. — Yours, etc, W.
Kidderminster. — The Kidderminster Town Council
are understood to be prepared to transfer their provisional
order for electric lighting to an outside company, for the
purpose of taking up the lighting in that town. A company
has been in negotiation with the Corporation, and an
engineer has visited the town to see what demand might
be expected, but reported that the number of large houses
were not great, and that he thought it would hardly be
worth the Corporation's while to take up the lighting them-
selves. The question was discussed at the last Town
Council meeting, and it was resolved to wait until a
definite offer had been received. Something should be
done at once, however, or the Corporation will lose (or
rather have to renew) their order. The question was left
in the hands of the Improvement Gommitteo.
376
TfiE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 16, 1892.
THE
tLECTRICAL ENGINEER.
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Price Threepence ; Post Free, Threepenee Halfpenny.
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Notes 361
The Crystal Palace Exhibi-
tion 366
1S82— 1892 : A Comparison . 369
Onie Times on Phonoporic
Telephony 371
Correspondence 371
Increasing the Supply 372
An Early Conception of the
Magnetic Field 373
On the Clark Cell as a Stan-
dard of Electromotive
Force 374
The Weston Voltmeters and
Ammeters 378
The Electric Motor : A Prac-
tical Description of the
Modern Dynamo Machine,
More Particularly as a
Motor 376
Institution of Electrical
Engineers 382
Bath 383
Companies' Reports 383
New Companies Registered 384
Business Notes 384
Provisional Patents, 1892 ... 384
Specifications Published 384
Companies' Stock and Share
List 384
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INCREASING THE SUPPLY.
Electric station engineers, especially those in
London, find themselves face to fiace with an im-
portant problem which will, sooner or later, have
to be seriously tackled. The number of customers
to any central station at its first inception increases
with a rush as the advantages of the electric light are
brought home to users. But after one or two years*
regular working, it is found, especially in certain
populous residential districts, that a curious falling
off is experienced in the rate of increase of customers.
Careful enquiries are, of course, instituted as
to this hesitancy — as to whether it be the cost
of the light, fears as to its danger or steadi-
ness, or what not. The answer is a complete
vindication of any such charge against either the
usefulness or price of the electric light. It is found
to be simply the cost of outlay for the wiring and
fittings. But surely persons who caii afford the
light, we should answer, would be able to afford to pay
for fittings. So they might, if these fittings became
their own property— but they do not. Many of the
inhabitants of the districts we are speaking about
hold their houses on short leases, perhaps with only
a year or two to run. The lease usually contains
clauses that no alterations in gas mains and so forth
may be undertaken without consent of the landlord,
or if the consent of the landlord be obtained it is
simply imder the condition that such fittings be paid
for by the tenant, but remain the property of the
landlord. Tenants on short leases are not so anxious
to improve the property of the landlord at their own
expense as to wire up the house throughout, and then
make over the material to the landlord at the expiry
of the lease, and consequently they do without the
light. The electric light fittings, as usually laid in a
house, come under the heading of fixtures, and as
such therefore become the property of the landlord
on the expiry of the lease.
This state of things threatens to become very
serious to the spread of the electric lighting
industry, and if electrical engineers and directors
of electric supply companies wish to extend the
use of electric light to its utmost extent, steps must
be taken to overcome this deadlock. There are
two or three means which might be taken to meet
the dif&culty in a practical spirit which will, no
doubt, suggest themselves to commercial men, but
we shall, perhaps, be doing a helpful act in mention-
ing these specifically. In the first place, it would
evidently meet the requirements of those who
require the electric light for parties, balls, and
other special occasions, if all or most of the
electrical contractors were to make terms with
artistic fitting manufacturers, such as Faraday's,
Osier's, and others to have the control of handsome
complete sets of ballroom or dining-table fixtures,
such as are shown at the Crystal Palace, to be hired
out at a fixed sum per night, the current to be
supplied by accumulators. This has already been
carried out to some extent among the richer class of
householders, but the practice might very well be
extended, and might even give work to an " Elec-
trical Fittings Hire Company, Limited." But this
only satisfies one portion of the demand. There remain
tfiE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 15, 1892.
373
those who desire a steady supply, but do not wish to
pay for the wiring of the house on the chance of losing
the whole amount after a year or two. To deal
with this difficulty another scheme must be adopted.
The fittings should be arranged so that they do not
become " fixtures/' and a discussion in a friendly
way between electrical contractors and the fire oflice
inspectors, ought to reveal without much difficulty a
means for achieving this result. The cables, wires,
fittings, lamps, meters, and blocks should be arranged
80 that they are not attached directly to the house
itself, but remain removable property. This could no
doubt be arranged with but little change from the usual
system. We think we can foresee here, however, a good
opening for the use of concentric wires, which, if
strung up on insulators in a house, could be remov-
able at the end of a tenancy, and would remain the
property of their purchaser. The incoming tenant
could be asked if he desired to take the electric light,
and if not, the whole apparatus could be promptly
dismantled for use elsewhere. We need hardly
emphasise the fact that it would be directly to the
interest of the directors and shareholders of electric
supply companies to encourage and foster firms or
hire-companies who would undertake this work.
AN EARLY CONCEPTION OF THE MAGNETIC
FIELD.*
BY PROF. EDWIN J. HOUSTON.
It may interest the members of the Electrical Section to
know that as early as 1668, Robert Boyle, the eminent
physicist and chemist, published, concerning the magnetic
field, exceedingly advanced ideas which closely resembled
the modem ideas of magnetic flux and lines of magnetic
force.
Boyle's publication, so far before the time of Faraday,
shows the exceedingly advanced position he must have
occupied at that early date, as a thinker and investigator in
physical science.
Boyle was an indefatigable worker, and a voluminous
writer, both in the domain of physics and chemistry, as
well as that of medicine. He taught that absolute rest had
practically no existence even in bodies in apparent rest,
since there existed in such bodies what is called an intestine
motion of their particles. He also had original notions of
what was called, in his time, effluvia, and it was in con-
nection with these so-called effluvia that he advanced an
explanation concerning the magnetic action of the load-
stone, which bears a remarkably close resemblance to the
modem ideas of a magnetic field and lines of magnetic
force.
The quotation referred to is from the second of two
essays " Concerning the Unsuccessf ulness of Experiments,"
published in 1668. In these essays he has been pointing
out the necessity for care in conducting scientific experi-
ments, and urges that the failure to experimentally
reproduce any natural phenomenon should not necessarily
call in question the accuracy of the first observer of such
phenomenon, until all the sources of error that might have
led to obscuring or vitiating it had been eliminated. In
this connection he cites, in a quaint manner, some of the
numerous experiments that he had been led to try on the
assertion of well-known scientific men, but in which he
failed to obtain the results alleged to have been observed.
He describes in this connection the magnetisation produced
by touching a steel knife-blade to the armed pole of a load-
stone as resulting in different polarities according to whether
the point of the blade is drawn towards or from the equator
of the loadstone.
I will quote Mr. Boyle's remarks in full in this connec-
* Paper read at a meeting of the Electrical Section of the Franklin
Institute.
tion : " If on either of the extremes or poles of a good
armed load-stone, you leisurely enough, or divers times,
draw the back of a knife, which has not before receivd any
magnetick influence, you may observe that if the point of the
blade have in this affriction been drawn from the middle or
aaquator of the load-stone towards the pole of it, it will attract
one of the extremes of an equilibrated magnetick needle ;
but if you take another knife that has not yet been invigo-
rated, and upon the self-same exlremitv of pole and the load-
stone, thrust the back of the knife from the pole towards
the equator or middle of the load-stone, you shall find
that the point of the knife has by this bare difference
of position in the blade whilst it past upon the
extreme of the the load-stone, acquired so different a
magnetic property, or polarity, from that which was
given to the former knife by the same pole of the
load-stone, that it will not attract, but rather seem to repel
or drive away that end of the magnetick needle which
was drawn by the point of the other knife. And this
improbable experiment not only have we made trial of, by
passing slender irons upon the extremities of armed load-
stones, the breadth of the whose steel-caps may make the
experiment somewhat less strange, but we have likewise
try'd it by affrictions of such irons upon the pole of a
naked terella, and we have found it to succeed there likewise.
How strange soever it may seem, that the same point or
part of the load-stone should imbue iron with contrary
properties, barely as they are, during their passing over
it, drawn from the sequator of the load stone, or thrust
towards it. But whether, and how far this observation
insinuates the operations of load-stone to be chiefly per-
formed by streams of small particles, which perpetually
issuing out of one of its poles, do wheel about and re-enter
at the other ; We shall not now examine (though this seem
one of the most likely phsenomena we have met with, to
hint a probable magnetical hypothesis) contenting our-
selves to have manifested by what plainly appears, how
much influence a circumstance, which none but a mag-
netick philosopher would take notice of, may have on an
experiment.''
Mr. Boyle had obtained an insight into the actions which
occur during magnetisation far beyond that of his contem-
poraries. This fact appears to be clearlv indicated by the
above statement as to what he believed to be the actual
operation of the loadstone — namely, that it produced mag-
netisation by means of streams of small particles coming
out of one pole and re entering at the other pole. Change
the phraseology but a trifle, and leave the ideas as
expressed, and we have at this early date a fair idea of the
modem notion of magnetic flux.
Boyle's notion seems to have been that when other bodies
were brought into this magnetic stream, they became
endowed with magnetic properties by the particles or
corpuscles forming the stream, passing through them, just
as we now explain magnetisation by the passage through a
magnetisable substance of the lines of magnetic force.
£i a later paper, published in 1669, on " The Absolute
Rest of Bodies," he asserts that the particles even in
exceedingly dense substances that are apparently at rest
are, in reality, in rapid motion. He urges that although
such motions cannot be seen, yet they must exist, and cites
as a proof of such assertion the following experiment,
which I will give in Mr. Boyle's language :
*' I briefly answei (for I would not here repeat what I
have elsewhere said on this point) by this clear experiment,
that though your eye can discern no change in the out-
ward and visible, much less in the more latent and internal
corpuscle of iron : a vigorous load-stone by passing along
its axis from one pole of the stone to the other, and bacK
again, yet the texture of the iron is by that action of the
load-stone so changed, that it acquires, and then loses
those admirable qualities we call the attractive and direc-
tive virtue or faculty peculiar to magnetick bodies."
And further on, in the same paper, in speaking of the
well-known fact that a mass of steel when allowed to
stand in an upright position for some time on the earth, is
endowed with magnetic properties, he ascribes these pro-
perties to the action which the streams of corpuscles exert
on it.
*' To this purpose I shall only obeenre to yoa tb
374
THE Electrical engineer, apbil is, 1892.
a bar of iron having one of its ends held perpendicularly,
and at a fit distance to the Lilly or northern point of the
mariner's compass (I mean that which points towards the
north), it will, as I elsewhere mention, drive it away towards
the east or west ; and if this same lower end of the bar of
iron be put into a contrary posture it will presently lose its
temporary magnetism, as I elsewhere declare. Yet if this
bar be very long -kept upright in a window or other conve-
nient place, then, as some late magnetickal writers will tell
you, it will have acquired a constant and durable magnetick
power. Which is a phenomenon which makes exceed-
ingly for our present purpose, since it hence appears both
that the air together with the magnetical effluvia of the
earth that it receives in its pores, is able without outward
force to work durable changes in so solid a body as iron,
and that the motions of the internal parts, for these are
requisite to change the metal's texture, are performed with
a wonderful slowness since the bar must be very long
exposed to the air, perhaps before it acquires any durable
magnetism at all, but at least before it acquires so vigorous
and fixt a magnetism as by this means it may attain to."
In another paper on " The Nature, Properties, and Effects
of Effluvia," reproduced by Shaw at a later date, in vol i.,
p. 411, of the philosophical works of the Hon. Robert Boyle,
Esq., 1725, Boyle writes as follows :
" To clear this matter, I caused some needles to be her-
metically sealed up in glass pipes, which being laid on the
surface of the water, whereon they wou'd lightly float, the
encluded needles did not only readily answer to the load-
stone externally apiilied, tho' a weak one, but comply'd
with it so well that I cou'd easily lead, without touching it,
the whole pipe to what part of the surface of the water I
pleased. I also found that by applying a better load-stone
to the upper part of the seai'd pipe, with a needle in it, I
cou'd make the needle leap up from the lower part, as near
to the load-stone as the interposed glass wou'd give it leave.
But I thought it more considerable to manifest that the
magnetical effluvia, even of such a dull body as the globe
of the earth, wou'd also penetrate glass. And this I
attempted after the following manner. I took a cylindrical
Eiece of iron, about the bigness of one's little finger, and
etween half a foot and a foot long ; having formerly found
that the quantity of unexcited iron forwards its operation
upon excited needles ; and having hermetically seal'd it up
in a glass pipe, but very little longer than it, I supposed
that if I held it in a perpendicular posture, the magnetical
effluvia of the earth, penetrating the glass, wou'd make the
lower extreme of the iron answerable to the North Pole ;
and, therefore, having applied this to that point of the
needle, in a dial or sea-compass, which looks towards the
north, I presumed it would drive it away, which accord-
ingly it did. And having, for further trial, inverted the
included iron, and held it in a perpendicular posture, just
under the same point, that extreme of the iron rod, which
before had driven away this poitit, being, by inversion,
become a south pole, attracted it ; from which sudden
change of the poles, merely upon the change of the situation,
it also appeared that the iron owed its virtue only to the
magnetism of the earth ; not that of another load-stone
which wou'd not have been thus easily alterable.''
I need not call your attention to the marked similarity
between the manner in which Boyle conceives magnetic
induction to take place, and our modern notions concerning
the same phenomenon. His streams of magnetic effluvia
correspond exactly in direction and action to our present
conceptions of magnetic fiux and lines of magnetic force.
Coming now to the time of Faraday, we find in a paper,
published by Faraday in the Philosophical Transactions,
in 1852, the following : " From my earliest experiments
on the relation of electricity and magnetism, I have had to
think and speak of lines of magnetic force as representa-
tions of the magnetic power, not merely in the points of
quality and direction, but also in quantity. . . ."
"A line of magnetic force may be defined as that line
which is described by a very small magnetic needle, when
it is so moved in either direction correspondent to its
length, that the needle is constantly a tangent to the line
of motion. . . ."
** These lines have not merely a determinate direction
recognisable as above, but because they are related to a
polar or antithetical power, have opposite quantities or
conditions in opposite directions. These qualities, which
have to be distinguished and identified, are made manifest
to us, either by the position of the ends of the magnetic
needle, or by the direction of the current induced in the
moving wire."
As to the direction of the lines of magnetic force, Faraday,
as is well known, regarded them as coming out of one
pole of the magnet and passing in at the other pole, and
referred to this in a paper printed in the Proceedings of the
Royal Institution, on the 23rd of January, 1852, as follows :
" The lines of force already described will if observed by
iron filings or a magnetic needle or otherwise, be found to
start off from one end of a bar magnet, and after describing
curves of different magnitudes through the surrounding
space, to return to and set on the other end of the
magnet."
There is, of course, a danger in quoting from an early
writer, of reading into the quotation a significance that
it could not have had, save by the light of subsequent
researches. It is far from my purpose, or desire, to belittle
the researches of Faraday. I merely desire to show, by a
comparison of the writings of these two philosophers, the
remarkable advance that Boyle had made as to the manner
in which a magnet acts.
In the above quotation from Boyle it must be remem-
bered that Boyle referred to certain effluvia which he
believed were given off by the magnet. His conception,
however, of these particles coming out at one pole and
re-entering the other, and his mentally endowing streams
of such particles with polarity, or the possession of opposite
properties in opposite directions, was certainly a remark-
able advance for his times, and shows how far he was
beyond his contemporaries.
It is possible that other writers before the time of Boyle,
or between his time and that of Faraday, may have expressed
somewhat similar ideas. I merely call your attention to the
quotations from Boyle as showing the remarkable grasp of
magnetic phenomena possessed by this early philosopher.
ON THE CLARK CELL AS A STANDARD OF
ELECTROMOTIVE FORCE.''
BY R. T. GLAZEBROOK, M.A., F.R.S., FELLOW OF TBINITY
COLLEGE, AND S. SKINNER, M.A., CHRIST*S COLLBGB,
DEMONSTRATOR
CAMBRIDGE.
IN THE CAVENDISH LABORATORY.
The paper consists of two parts. In Part I. an account
is given of experiments on the absolute E.M.F. of a Clark
cell. This was determined in the manner described by
Lord Rayleigh {Phil, Trans, , 1884) in terms of a known
resistance and the electro-chemical equivalent of silver.
The resistance used was a strip of platinoid about 1 cm.
wide and 0 05 cm. thick wound on an open frame. It was
immersed in a bath of paraffin oil, and the currents used,
varying from about 075 to rather over 1'4 amperes, did not
raise its temperature sufficiently to affect the result. It
had a resistance of nearly one B.A. unit. This was deter-
mined in terms of the original B.A. units. As part of the
object of the experiments was to test the memorandum on
the use of the silver voltameter recently issued by the
Electrical Standards Committee of the Board of Trade, the
large currents mentioned above were purposely employed.
The silver voltameters were treated in accordance with
the instructions in the memorandum.
The standard cell to which the results are referred is
one constructed by Lord Rayleigh in 1883, probably No. 4
of the cells described in his paper already quoted. The
results have been reduced on the supposition that one B.A.
unit is equal to 0 9866 ohm ; if we take the number 0*9535t
as representing the value in B.A. units of the resistance of
a column of mercury at Odeg., 1 metre loncc, 1 sq. mm. in
section, the above is equivalent to saying that the length
of the mercury column having a resistance of one ohm is
106*3 cm. It has also been assumed that the mass of
'Abstract of a paper read before the Society of Arts,
t This number is the mean of the beet recent results
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 15, 1892.
375
silver deposited in one second by a current of one ampere is
0*001118 gramme, and that the coefficient of change of
E.M.F. with temperature of a Clark's cell is 0 00076.
This last result has been verified by us in Part II. An
account of nine separate experiments is given in the paper ;
the following are the results reduced to 15deg. C. :
No. of E.M.F. of
experiment. cell.
1 .^ 1-4341
2 1-4336
3 1-4341
4 1-4340
6 1-4340
No. of E.M.F. of
experiment. cell.
6 1-4342
7 1-4342
8 1-4340
9 1-4345
The mean of these is 1*4341, or, correcting for the rate of
the clock, 1*4342.
Id Experiment 2 the current in the voltameter was
rather unsteady, which may account for the low value ;
while in Experiment 9 the temperature of the cell was
changing somewhat, and our later experience has shown
us that the E.M.F. in our standard cell lags very con-
siderably behind the temperature. Still, even taking these
experiments into account, the results are very close.
If we suppose, as seems most probable, for reasons given
in the paper, that our cell is No. 4 of Lord Kayleigh's
paper, and that it has retained relative to No. 1 (Lord Ray-
leigh's standard) the value it had in 1883, the E.M.F. of his
cell No. 1 would be in the units he used, 1*4346 volts at
15deg. The value found by Lord Rayleigh was 1*4348
volts ; thus the two are very close.
In the units we have given above, those specified by the
Board of Trade, we have finally the result that the E.M.F.
of our cell is 1-4342 volts at 15deg. C. or 1-4324 volts at
62deg. F.
Part II.
In the second part of the paper we have investigated
some of the sources of error in the Clark cell, and also the
effects of small variations in the materials used and the
method of their preparation. We have also compared a
number of cells set up by different makers. The general
result is a very good agreement among cells from very
various sources.
Cells set up by Lord Rayleigh in 1883 and 1884, Mr.
Elder in 1886, Mr. H. L. Callendar in 1886, Dr. Muirhead
in 1890, and by Dr. Schuster, Mr. Wilberforce, and our-
selves during the past year, all agree closely, the variations
among them being rarely greater than about 0 0005
volt The first set of cells, 18 in number, con-
S'tructed for the purposes of this enquiry, were made
according to Lord Rayleigh's instructions, using, how-
ever, various specimens of the chemicals. These showed
some differences at first, but in the course of about two
months they had all, with one exception, settled down to
close agreement with the standard. The exceptional cell
has since become normal. In two of these cells mercury
was used which had been taken direct from the stock in
everyday use in the laboratory. The E.M.F. of these cells
was much too low at first, but it gradually increased, and
they are now normal. The mercurous sulphate appears to
free the mercury from certain harmful impurities.
Another set of cells were put up, in accordance with the
provisional memorandum of the Electrical Standards Com-
mittee of the Board of Trade, issued in June last and
quoted below.
Memoramduii on the Preparation of the Clark
Standard Cell.
Definition of the Cell,
The cell consists of mercury and zinc in a saturated solution
of zinc sulphate and mercurous sulphate in water, prepared with
mercurous sulphate in excess, and is conveniently contained in
a cylindrical glass vessel.
Preparation of tht Materials.
1. The Merciiiy. — To secure purity it should be first treated
with acid in the usual manner, and subsequently distilled iu
vacuo.
2. The Zitkc. — Take a portion of a rod of pure zinc, solder to
one end a piece of copper wire, clean the whole with glass
paper, carefully removing any loose pieces of the zinc. Just
before making up the cell, dip the zinc into dilute sulphuric
add, wash with distilled water, and dry with a clean cloth or
filter paper.
3. The Zinc Svlphaie Solution. — Prepare a saturated solution
of pure ('^ pure recrystallised ") zinc sulphate by mixing in a
flask distilled water with nearly twice its weight of crystals of
pure zinc sulphate, and adding a little zinc carbonate to neutra-
lise any free acid. The whole of the crystals should be dissolved
with the air of gentle heat — i.e., not exceeding a temperature of
30deg. C. — and the solution filtered, while still warm, into a
stock bottle. Crystals should form as it cools.
4. The Mercurous Sulphate. — Take mercurous sulphate, pur-
chased as pure, and wash it thoroughly with cold distilled water
by agitation in a bottle ; drain off the water, and repeat the
process at least twice. After the last washing, drain off as much
of the water as possible. Mix the washed mercurous sulphate
with the zinc sulphate solution, adding sufficient crystals of zinc
sulphate from the stock bottle to ensure saturation, and a small
quantity of pure mercury. Shake these up well together to
form a paste of the consistency of cream. Heat the paste suffi-
ciently to dissolve the crystals, but not above a temperature of
30deg. Keep the paste for an hour at this temperature, agitating
it from time to time, then allow it to cool. Crystals of zinc
sulphate should then be distinctly visible throughout the mass ;
if this is not the case, add more crystals from the stock bottle,
and repeat the process. This method ensures the formation of
a saturated solution of zinc and mercurous sulphates in water.
The presence of the free mercury throughout the paste preserves
the basicity of the salt, and is of the utmost importance. Con-
tact is made with the mercury by means of a platinum wire
about No. 22 gauge. This is protected from contact with the
other materials of the cell by being sealed into a glass tube.
The ends of the wire project from the ends of the tube ; one
end forms the terminal, the other end and a portion of the glass
tube dip into the mercury.
To set up the Cell.
The cell may conveniently be set up in a small test-tube of
about 2 cm. diameter, and 6 cm. or 7 cm. deep. Place the
mercury in the bottom of this tube, filling it to a depth of, say,
1*5 cm. Cut a cork about 0*5 cm. thick to fit the tube ; at one
side of the cork bore a hole, through which the zinc rod can
pass tightly ; at the other side bore another hole for the glass
tube which covers the platinum wire ; at the edge of the cork
cut a nick through which the air can pass when the cork is
pushed into the tube. Pass tho zinc rod about 1 cm. through
the cork. Clean the glass tube and platinum wire carefully,
then heat the exposed end of the platinum red hot, and insert
it in the mercury in the test-tube, taking care that the whole of
the exposed platinum is covered. Shake up the paste and
introduce it without contact with the upper part of the walls
of the test-tube, filling the tube above the mercury to a
depth of rather more than 2 cm. Then insert the cork
and zinc rod, passing the glass tube throueh the hole prepared
for it. Push the cork gently down until its lower surface is
nearly in contact with the liquid. The air will thus be nearly
all expelled, and the cell should be left in this condition for at
least 24 hours before sealing, which should be done as follows :
Melt some marine glue until it is fluid enough to pour by its
own weight, and pour it into the test-tube above the cork, using
sufficient to cover completely the zinc and soldering. The glass
tube should project above the top of the marine glue. The cell
thus set up may be mounted in any desirable manner. It is
convenient to arrange the mounting so that the cell may be
immersed in a water bath up to the level of, say, the upper
surface of the cork. Its temperature can then be determmed
more accurately than is possible when the cell is in air.
These cells, as the tests given show, have been good from
the first, and, indeed, we have not had any difficulty with
any of tho cells in which the instructions of this memo-
randum have been followed. The mercury used had been
distilled in the laboratory, the zincs were supplied as
** pure " by Messrs. Harringtons, of Cork, while the zinc
and mercurous sulphates came from Messrs. Hopkin and
Williams. The numbers in Table I. show the differences
between the cells and the standard ; the unit is 0*00025
volt.
It may be well to explain the purpose of some of the
precautions advised in the circular. The mercurous
sulphate, as ordinarily purchased, contains some mercuric
sulphate. When this is moistened with water it is resolved
into a yellow basic mercuric sulphate (turpeth mineral) and
a soluble acid mercuric sulphate. The first, at any rate in
moderate quantities, does not affect the E.M.F. ; the latter
greatly hinders it from attaining the proper value. Repeated
washing, however, removes most of this soluble salt. The
paste, when made, is shaken with mercury to remove an]
traces of the acid sulphate which may be left, for thj^
mercuric sulphate attacks the mercury and f o
376
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 15, 1892.
TABLE I.— Differences between a Set of Ceixs and the Standabd.
June 4.
June 6.
June 9.
July 20.
Aug. 6.
Aug. 10.
Aug. 14.
Aug. 22.
Nov. 2.
Nov. 14.
Dec 17.
July i:
July 18.*
Temperature.
16
16
14-5
18 .
16-2
16*4
17-5
16*4
14-4
9-2
15
15
15
No. 71
-4
~1
-1
0
0
0
0
0
^^ 1
-2
-2
2
-4
„ 72
-3
-1
-1
1
0
0
0
1
1
3
• 2
» 73
-8
-8
-8
1
0
1
0
1
0
1
2
„ 74
-2
1
2
2
m
0
0
0
1
-1
4
2
„ 75
-6
1
0
0
0
1
-1
1
-1
4
2
» 76
-3
2
-1
0
^ X
0
'2
-1
0
0
2
3
* Comparison with the fitandard of the Board of Trade. The unit is 0*00025 volt.
sulphate. Careful precautions are necessary to ensure that
the solutions should be saturated with both zinc and
mercurous sulphates, but the solutions should not be raised
in temperature above 30deg. C, for the zinc sulphate mav
tiien crystallise out in the wrong form. The proper crystals
have the composition ZnS04.7U20, and are rhombic.
But while we have had no serious difficulty with any of
the ceUs prepared in accordance with the last form of the
memorandum, some of the other cells we have set up have
led to some interesting results. Two sets of cells were put
up with great caie by Mr. Wilberiorce in March and April.
One of us (S. S.) set up some cells in the same way about
the same time. The solutions were prepared from very
pure materials, following Lord Kayleigh's instructions.
The zinc sulphate was remarkably free from acid, and it
appeared as if the results ought to be good. In the first set,
Nob. 36-41, the E.M.F. was too low. At the end of a
month it was much too low, about 0*005 volt, and Mr.
Wilberf orce noticed that a dull grey deposit covered the
zincs; he therefore removed them and scraped off this
deposit, when, on replacing the zincs, the cells were found
to have approximately the normal E.M.F.; they have con-
tinued nearly normal since. The next set, Nos. 42-47, were
very good when first set up, but the E.M.F. soon fell
rapidly, until at the end of a month they were nearly
0*01 volt too low. The grey deposit again was formed
over the zinc. Some of these cells were left untouched
till August, by which time the E.M.F. had recovered
somewhat, being then about 0*005 too low. Others had
been treated by removing the zincs and replacing them by
amalgamated zincs. In August some experiments were
made on the unaltered cells, which showed conclusively
that it is necessary that the surface of the zinc should
remain bright if consistent results are to be obtained. This
bright surface may be secured by amalgamating the zinc,
but we are not yet sure that this alone is effective, for it
seems possible from various observations that some action
which results in the amalgamation of the zinc must go on
in the cell to enable it to reach the steady state, and that
it may not be sufficient to introduce amalgamated zincs.
On this and some kindred points, however, we are still ex-
perimenting. The grey deposit can be shown to be mainly
mercury in a state of very fine division. There are some
indications that a slight acidity in the solutions is of use in
promoting amalgamation. We have verified repeatedly an
observation of Dr. Hopkinson's that the £.M.F. of a bad
cell changes considerably if the cell be slightly shaken,
while that of a good cell is not affected.
The paper also contains an account of some experiments
on the coefficient of change of E.M.F. with temperature.
The value found is 0 000755 per Ideg. C, practically the
same as that given by Lord Rayleigh. In this connection
we may mention the important observation that when the
temperature is rising, even although the rise be only a few
degrees, the E.M.F. of the cell may — especially if the cell
be large — lag very considerably behind the temperature.
On one occasion in which the temperature rose by some
5deg. C. in about a week, the E.M.F. of our large cell at
the end of the week corresponded to a temperature nearly
3d eg. lower than that given by a thermometer in the bath
with the cell, being about 0*0027 volt too high. In this
case a thick cake of crystals had formed on the top of the
more solid portion of the paste, and the zinc sulphate solu-
tion only attained the state of saturation corresponding to
the temperature by very slow degrees. Mr. Carhart and
Mr. Swinburne have called attention to the difficulties
which thus attend the practical use of the cells. They
are to some extent met by using small cells.
The paper also describes a new form of portable cell
which may be turned into anv position without harm.
Experiments have also been made on the mercury chloride
standards described by Von Helmholtz. A set of these has
been constructed which has an KM.F. of very nearly one volt
A form of standard due to Gk)uy, in which oxide of mercury
is used, has also been examined. The KM.F. of these cells
prepared with yellow oxide is, we find, 1*381 voltSi and
when prepared with red oxide 1*388 volts.
By the kindness of Major Cardew several of our cells
have been compared with the standards of the Board of
Trade. The differences are very small, being about
0*0003 volt. The average of the Board of Trade cells is
less than our standard by about this amount. The Board
of Trade possess 72 cells, and Mr. Rennie, Major Oardew's
assistant, informs us that the greatest difference between
any two of them is under 0*0007 volt It will be seen
from the table given that, while the cells there considered
are on the average about one of our units above our
standard, they are rather over two of such units above the
Board of Trade cells. Thus our standard exceeds the cells
of the Board of Trade by rather over one of our units, or
about 00003 volt If we take the E.MF. of our standard
as 1*4342 volts at 15deg., the cells of the Board of Trade
average in E.M.F. about 1*4339 volts at 15deg. C, or
1*4321 volts at 62deg. F.
THE ELECTRIC MOTOR : A PRACTICAL DESCRIP-
TION OF THE MODERN QYNAMO MACHINE,
MORE PARTICULARLY AS A MOTORS
BY W. B. SAYKIIS.
(Continued frmn page 34^. )
The Beversibility of the Elementary Principle of the Dynamo
Machine. — I have mentioned that if the bar were driven in
the magnetic field a back pressure, or opposing E.M.F.,
would be generated in it, which pressure, or E.M.F., would
necessarily be exceeded by the supply pressure. Now, this
pressure, which I have called back pressure hitherto, would
be generated just the same if the bar were driven across the
magnetic field by an external agency. If we were to drive
the bar, then, by mechanical power, we should get a differ-
enceof electrical pressure, oran E.M.F., between its two ends,
which would be capable of producing a current if suitable
connections were made. This illustrates the principle of the
reversibility of the dynamo machine — our heretofore motor
bar is transformed into a generator bar. To go a little
further. If we were to apply a constant driving force to
the bar (the equivalent of this is done when a constant-
current generator is driven by an uncontrolled steam
engine supplied with steam at constant pressure), the con-
ditions would be such that through a considerable range
the current generated in the bar would be nearly indepen-
dent of the resistance or back pressure opposed to it, the
speed at which the bar was propelled varying so as to
produce this result.
* Paper read before tho Institution of Engineers and Ship-
builders in Scotland.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL Ifi, 1892.
377
For aappou the redatacce or the back presaure, or both,
oppoaed to the preaaure genented in the bar were to be
euadenlf iDorsased, the reault would be a momentary
diminution in the strength of the ciurent ; thia would
mean a corresponding decreaae in the force which the
driven bar oppoaed to the conatant driving force. The
velocity of the bar would consequently be increased, and
with it the preasura generated and current in the system,
nntil equilibrium waa again restored, which would be when
the current bad reached its former value. By the reverae
process the current would be brought liack to ita normal
value if momentary increase were caused by reduction of
the resistance, or the back presaure, or both.
Thus, if suitable low-reaiatance connections were made
between the bar driven by a constant force, and a second
similar bar — located, of course, between the poles of a
similar magnet — there would be a practically constant
current driven through the two bars, so that the conatant
driving force applied to the one would be tranamitted to
the aecond, wbicn we may call the motor bar. This is
typical of the transmission of power by what ia known aa
tlie conBtant«urrent system.
Again, suppose one bar to be driven by mechanical
power at a conatant speed ; in thia case the presaure
generated would be constant, and the mechanically driven
bar would then become a source of constant electric
pressure, so that if this bar, mechanically driven at a
constant speed in a powerful magnetic field, were suitably
connected with low-resistance conductor to a aecond similar
bar, the second bar would be driven, at a nearly constant
speed, in the manner I have described. Thia illuetratea
tlie principle upon which the transmission of power on the
conatant-presBure ayatem, in which a constant speed is
maintained at all loads, depends.
The Dynamo Machine at a Motor, — The obvious mode of
constructing a motor depending for its action upon the
elementary forces we have been considering, is to fix the
driving bi^ or wires upon the periphery of a wheel, or
drum or cylinder, and to so arrange them and their con-
nertioni that the forces they exert abali combine to turn
such wheel or drum ; and further, to ao arrange the whole
that the rotation shall not relieve the force (so to apeak),
BO that a constant torque is applied to the shaft. Thia
wheel, or drum, with its driving wires (for in small
machines the driving bara are merely wirea), or ita bara and
their connection a and mountings, form what ia called the
" armature " of the motor. Many difi'erent forms of arma-
torea have been devised, all depending upon the same
prindplea for their actiona ; but I shall confine myaelf to
the two forms mostly in use in this country — ^i.e., ring
armatures and drum armatures. The essential difi'erence
between the two types is thia. In a ring armature the con-
nections between the driving wires or bars are taken
through the centre of the core, which is a hollow cylinder ;
in a drum armature the connections between the driving
wires or bars are taken across the ends, and there are no
connections through the centre.
The drum or ring, as the case may be, upon which the
driving bars or wires are mounted, is built up of thin iron
discs, with a thin sheet of insulating material between each.
It is called the " core " of the armature. If the core were
solid, instead of being built up of discs, or laminated in a
direction at right angles to the abaft, it would have very
powerful electric currents induced in it, caused by the
same action which induces the back pressure in the driving
bars, and this would result in great loss of energy, and
heating of the core. A motor of any size with a solid core
would be absolutely worthless from this cause.
The driving bars or wires are constituted by the portions
of the " winding," as it is termed, of the armature which
cover the periphery,* and may not be separate bars at all ;
but whether the conducting circuit, or " winding," of the
armature ia compoaed of wire wound continuously on, or
whether made up of separate bars, auch as these I hold in
my hand, the primary force which drivea the motor is
exerted agaioat the core— or againat driving pine specially
provided — by the wires or bars which cover the periphery
of the armature ; the force reacting upon the field magneta,
which could thus be nude to revolve in place of the
' armature.
I Fig. 3 is a diagrammatic representation of a ring-armatore
I dynamo machine ae a motor. The abaft is not shown. A
is the core, B B is the " winding," which consists of the
parts, ij b^, which lie on the periphery, and which exert
the dnving force, and the parts, 6, &j, which serve to
connect the driving bare or wires in the required manner.
D D are connections made with the winding at intorvale
which torminate in segmental bars, C G, which form what
is called the commutator, upon which the brushes, E + E - ,
rest. F+ F- are the supply mains. Suppose the
current to flow through the motor, aa indicated by the
arrows* ; it traverses the brush, £ -f , and enters the arma-
ture through the commutator bar, C + , and ita connection,
D -I- ; on reaching the winding it divides, one-half the total
* In some tonus of rine-tumatare machine* the magnet poles are
in jaxtAposition to the b^db, or evsn to the inside, in addition to,
3t instead of, the periphery of the arqiatnre. In those caaas the
wires or bars on these parts of the armature core also drive.
Fia. 3.
going each way round, until the two parts meet again at
connection D-, whence the current flows out at E~.
O Q represent the maaaive electromagnet, between the
curved polar surfaces of which and the armature core ia the
air apace, or intorpolar apace, in which the conductors move,
and where the intense magnetic field prevails when the
field magnets are excited by the current through their
exciting coils. The path of the magnetic flux is indicated
by the lines which are marked with the letters N and
S to indicate the direction of the flow. The magnetic
flux flows from the mass of the magnet across the air space,
through the laminated mass of iron. A, forming the arma-
ture core, across the aecond air space, back into the mass
of the magnet, and round through the limba and yoke
I may here remark that the ume qaantity of electricity — the
10 oorrent, we may say— leaves the motor as enters it, ]ust as
. . same qnantity of water Sows away from a tarbine aa enteis it.
The electric carrent, whether it is merely the manifestation of
molecular motion, or whether it is material in motion, is only the
vehicle of enerfiy. It doe* not disapDear when it deUvera ap
energy, any more than a driving rope or oand does.
378
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 15, 1892.
(u the «Dd pi«c« is called), ao forming a continuous loop
or circait
The direction of the current in the peripheral or driving
wires or ban, is opposite over one-half of the armature to
that over the other half; but it will be seen from the
diagram, Fig. 3, that the direction of the magnetic field in
which thev lie is the same, therefore the force impressed
by one-half of the driving bars ia opposite in diiection to
that impressed over the other half, so that a rotational
torque is applied to the core, and, through it and its
mountings, to the shaft
By means of the commutator, C, which revolves with
the armature, while the brushes, E + E - , remain stationary,
the direction of the current in the driving bars and their
connections is reversed as the rotation proceeds, so that the
direction of the current in all the bars which are in one
air space is always opposite to the direction in the other
air space.
This reversal is effected while the driving bars are
passing through the two neutral or non-effective parts of
their path between the poles of the lar^e magnet, O, so the
torque is quite constant, and a perfectly even and constant
speed can be obtained, with an electric motor, without the
use of a flywheel. The armature, it ia true, has consider-
able inertia, but this is not called into requisition to
maintain a constant torque upon the shaft, as ia the fly-
wheel of a steam engine.
The reversal of the current in the sections of the arma-
ture winding between any two commutator connections,
D D, takes an appreciable time, owing to the phenomena
of self-induction.* For this cause the manner in which the
reversal of the armature sections ia to be effected is one
of the vital points to consider in designing an electric
motor; almost, if not quite, as vital a point as is the
reversal of the direction of motion of the connecting-rod
and piston, etc., of a high-speed ateam engine.
If this reversal is effected merely by the crank instead
of by cushioning, and by giving " lead " to the alide-valve,
so as to arreat and restart the piston, etc., and ao effect the
reversal of the motion, by the steam independently of the
action of the crank, the engine will soon knock itaelf to
pieces, though the fitting be never so perfect, and all slack-
ness and play got rid of. There ia a wonderfully perfect
analogy between this profalen? iti ateam engine design, and
that of effecting the reversal of the current in the armature
sections of an eloctromotor.
If this is done merely by the make-and- break action of
the brushes in sliding over the commutator aections, it is
done, aa it were, violently, and sparkinR and rapid destruc-
tion of both commutator and brushes is the reeuk. Curiously
enough, if certain factors have been duly regarded in the
design of the mHchiue, all that ia neceasary to do in order
to get rid of the sparking is to give the brushes a " lead "
(just as the engine alide-valve requires to have a " lead "
over the crank), so that the reversal takes place a little to
one side instead of just at the neutral point. The direction
of lead is opj-^aite to the direction of rotation in a machine
running as a motor — in the direction of rotation in one
running as a generator.
When the proper lead ia given, the reversal takes place
at a point found by trial when the armature section is in
the fringe of the magnetic field through which it has just
passed — i.e., when it is leaving one of the air spaces (in the
case of a motor). At this point the current in the section
is brought to zero, and started in the opposite direction, to
just the right strength by the back pressure (which we
have seen is generated in the driving bars of a motor)
independently, as it were, of the commutator. Thus the
commutator and brushes muat be designed and adjusted,
not to cause the reversal of the sections by making and
* The phenomenon of self-induction in an electric circuit ia
analagouB to that of inertia in mechanics. An electric current
cannot be inBtantaneoualy started at a given strength, or instan-
taneously stopped after it has been sLarMd, any more than a body
can be instantaneously started in motion at a eiven velocity, or
instantaneously arrested after startinj;. The self-induction of a
wire or conductor forming an electric circuit, however, is an
extremely variable quantity, denending more ajion the environ-
ment of the wire or conductor than upon the wire or conduotor
itself. The self -induction of an armature secCioo varies in different
pckrU of its path, but alwnys has a high value due to the proximity
breakJDg the connection with the main, but so as to allow
the reversal to be performed by the action of the magnetic
field upon the section, and the winding and field magnet*
of the machine must be so proportioned and designed as to
cauae this reversal to be effected during the time that the
commutator bars of the section are passing under the
brushes.
(To be continued.)
THE WESTOM VOLTMETERS AND AMMETERS.
We in England are bo accustomed to eonnder the
manufacture of measuring instruments as peculiarly one of
the home trades that we can hardly understand the
threatened competition from American sources. Yet the
Weaton instruments, as shown at Frankfort, commended
themselves to almost all who examined them, and although
not so prominently exhibited at the Crystal Palace, the
Mining and General Lamp Company have some of these
instruments on ahow, as also cases in which the various parts
of which the instruments are constructed are also exhibited.
We understand, however, that some modifications have
recently been made in the construction of the instruments,
ao that the latest types are not yet to he seen on this aide.
However, Dr. Maschke, in the Electrical World of New
York, has described these instruments, and to hia article
we are princi[ially indebted for the following information.
Iiitroditelorij. — In no branch of modem enffineering has the
necessity of working under close control of accuTste meaaure-
nient been felt more urgently by those connected with the art
than in electrical industries, and not many of nature's forma of
energy nre capable of being controlled and measured with, a
similar degree of perfection as the electric current. A great
many forms of apparatus and methods have been devised for
Ther
with all iniprovements and conveniences, and those of prsctioal
work, where the conditions of working are generally oomplioated
by n large number of unfavuumble circumstances, and where
time saving ia one of the most important items. It may fairly be
said that, notwithatanding the astonishing amount of eneivyand
ingenuity displayed in the invention and construction of elec-
trical measuring instruments, almost all the forms of apparatus
nt present tii daily use by the electrician are far from aatiafying
the practical recjuireinonts. In fact, the demand for improved
apparatus is cuntiniially raised among electrical engineers and
ia constantly increasing.
It is with the view of satisfying this demand that the Weston
standard voltmeter and ammeter to be described beluw, for
measuring F.M.F. and strength of current, have been designed.
The general and hijjh recugnition with which these instruments
have met since the day they were put into the market may be
considered as a fair proof of their superiority over their com-
petitore. They seem entitled to the clnim that they answer
the requirements of electrical practice more perfectly than any
other instruments in use for the same purpose, especially as far
as convenience, accuracy, and reliability are concerned, and it
has freiguently been acknowledged by competent authorities
that they even surpass a great many forms of apparatus
especially constructed tor laboratory work.
Although everybody who has ever used the instruments will
readily adinit the great advantagea offered by them, still they
mi^ht be exposed to the abjocti<m made to all iiistrumenta in
which permanent magnets are applied — viz., that the magnetism
might not keep constant for any great length of time.
Expenmonts to be described below will show how perfectly
groundless this prejudice is, as far as the Weston iustrumeuts
are concerned. It ia sufficient here to state that with instru-
ments continually in use for three years, no change of the
readings could be noticed amounting to more than one-tenth of
Ipor
Th.
description of some of their more important opplioations. The
descriptions will be such as will enable even thoae who are not
familiar with the methods of electrical measurements to use the
instruments for auch measurements. An experienced electrician
might see for himself what may be done with the instruments
for other than voltage and current measurement, but he will be
interested to learn what high degree of accuracy may be nMtohed
in certain measurements with this simple apparatus, which
otherwise would require very complicated arrangements.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGIKEER, APRIL 15, 1892.
379
Dbscriptiok op Ihst&itments.
Principle of the Apparatus. — If h flat coil of wire oirryinK an
electric current is brought between the poles of a horBeshoe
magnet, it behaves exactly at if it were nsidlj connected to a
magnet fixed in its centiu verticsllv to the iHane of ita windinin.
Fios, 1 and 2. — Principle of Apporati
Now, Buppoae the coil Ehuwn from above in Fig. 1 be bub-
pended or pivoted bo as to allow being rotated around its
vertical axis, and let it be traversed by a current having the
direction of the small arrow; it will then be turned in the
direction of the larger arrow, from the position shown in Fig. 1
to that in Fig. 2. This rotation will be produced even by the
smallest current, provided the coil is not acted upon by some
oppoeing force. To make it a measuring instrument, therefore,
requires that the tendency to turn be opposed by some counter
force. Such a counter force is produced in the form of two
flat, horizontal, spiral springs, fastened to the ends of the coil
above and below it. When no current is Bowing these springs
will keep the coil in a certain zero position, from which it will
be deflected the more the stronger a current which is sent
through the coil. A pointer connected with the upper end of
the oue of the coil, and moving over a properly graduated scale,
will then indicate the position of the coil, and, therefore, the
strength of the current to be measured. This a the principle
of the WestoQ voltmeter and ammeter.
Fii:. ;i.— Magnetic Field.
The Mu/pittic FieUI. — The magnetic field is produced by the
poles of a strong steel horseshoe magnet. Fig. 3, prepared by a
special process. The cross-section of the same is a rectangle of
about l'25in. hy 0'3in. Pole-pieces, P P, are attached to the
inner surfaces of the poles and are fastened to them by screws,
6 S. The faces of these pole-pieces are of such a shape as to
leave a perfectly cylindrical space between them. At the front
side they are connected by two screws to a brass plate, M,
carrying a massive soft iron cylinder, C, which occupiw the
larger part of the cylindrical space left by the pole-pieces. The
dimensians of this cylinder are such that a small annular space
is left between the cylinder and the pole-pieces, the widui of
which amounts to only 0-040in. in the most recent instruments.
This space represents the magnetic field in which the mil
The 2I(nxMe CoiJ.— The coil consists of fine insulated wire
wound upon a light rectangular frame of aluminium. To avoid
any asiymmetry this frame is made by a special and ingenious
Ccess from a seamless aluminium tube. Including the coil, it
a thickness of 0-015in., so that its distance from the soft
iron cylinder, C, on the one side and the pole-pieces, P P, on
the other amount* to only O'OlZSin., Fig. 4.
Fastened to each end of the coil is a pivot of hard polished
steel, carrying a small brass collar, to which the inner end of a
spiral spring is fastened. To avoid any interference from mag-
netic action the springs are not made of steel, but of some non-
magnetic alloy. In a test made with one of t^ese springs itWM
pulled out straight, and when ^owed to recoil no onange oould
It goes without saying that the spring is not subjected to any
permanent changes through long use of the instrument. The
following reasoning will dispel any doubt as to the constancy of
the springs. Suppose a good watch makes about 240 beats a
minute, the swing of tbe balance being about 360deg., the
number of contractions and oxpansions of the hairspring would
amount to 1,382,600 per day. If we now assume that one of
the instruments is used 300 days in the year, 100 readings being
made every day, Che deflections extending over the full scale
longth^that is, about 90deg.~it would require 46 years to do
the same work with the spring of tbe instrument which a hair-
spring is doing daily. The alightest change in a hairspring
would, of course, show this very distinctly during the course of
a day, but we know by experience that we can rely upon a natch
to a certainty tor a much longer period.
Btariiiga of Iht Cod. Puth of Wie Oiirrejtf.— Circular grooves
are cut into the pole-pieces on their upper and lower surface,
concentric with the cylindrical opening. Fitted into these
grooves are the circular ed^es of two brass caps, as shown in
Fig. 5, each of which carries in its centre a small sapphire
forming the bearings for the pivots of the coil. By this arran^-
ment the axle of the coil is made to accurately coincide with
the axis of the soft iron cylinder.
Fro. 5. — Bearings.
To each of these brass caps two diagonal arms of brMs are
fixed, which are insulated from the cap and can be moved
around ita centre. One of these arms acts as a support for the
exterior end of the spiral spring which is connected tJierewi^,
while the other arm conducts the current to or from the respec-
tive spring. Tbe ourrent therefore passes from the lower brass
arm to the lower spiral spring, thence through the coil to th*
upper spiral spring and to the brass arm connected with the
of the voltmeten contain, besides the movable coil, a
separate resistance ooU located underneath the scale-plate and
ileotrically connected between one of the bnwi arms and one of
3S0
THE ELECfRICAL ENGIKEER, APRIL 15, 1892.
the outoide binding poata. In the ammeter* the brau arms &re
oonnectad directlj with the terminala of » shunt contained
irithin the inatrument, Fig. 6.
Oiring to the vety great care used in the conBtniction of the
beuioKB, which are made with the same care and precision as
in the beat watchei, friction ia reduced to a minimum. To
Gavent the tuma of the spiral apring from being puahed up
Tond the end of the braas arm bf an accidental violent
motion of the apparatus, the arm ia prolonged slightly in a
horizontal direction beyond the point whore the spring is
faatened. A alit ia cut into the cover, through which the
spring can be seen, so aa to make sure tliat ail its turns are in
one plane.
7^ SeaU aiui Pointer. — The pointer of the apparatus is
fixed to a small brass cross attached to the upper point near
the bearing. The arms of the cross, by which the pointer is
counterbalanced, are joined by a bmss arc, into which a number
of minute screws are inserted fur making the dne adjustment
to ensure accumCe balanci:ig. The pointer is made of aluminium,
and is flattened at ita end.
When the coil is in the zero position, the pointer, whose
normal direction is perpendicular to the plane of windings of
the coil, forms nn angle of 45dcg. with the middle line of
the instrument. With the strongest current which is allowed
to pass through the instrument, the pointer ia deflected
OOdeg. from its zero position. Beyond these two extreme
Beadinga. — The reading may be made immediately on apply-
ing the current. The pointer assumes it proper position by an
instantaneous and dead-beat deflection. It indicates also the
slightest momentary or permanent variations in the current or
E.M.F. The dead-beat quality is due entirely to the damping
effect which the frame of the coil experiences in moving through
the strong magnetie field, tbe effect of friction in the bearings
being practicaUy nought owing to their careful conatruction and
adjustment.
One of the moat valuable features of the instrument ia the
uniformity of the scale, Fig 9. All scale readings begin at
zero, and it is hardly possible to discover, with the naked eye,
any difference in the spacing of any two neighbouring divisions.
Each individual instrument is carefully c^ibrated for a large
number of readings, and t'le scale drawn according to these
calibrated readings. The divisions are drawn with extreme
accuracy, and checked subsequently with the indications of a
standnrd inatrument.
Owing to the uniformity of the scale divisions, the fiactiona
of a scale division may be eatimated with great precision, Aa
one-tenth of a scale division can be estimated easily, an appa-
ratus ranging from 0 to 150 volts will allow reading to one-t«nth
of a volt. With the double scale voltmeters, the lower scale
of which ranges from 0 to 5 volts, one three- hundredth of a
volt may be read ; and with the milli- voltmeters, the range of
which extends from 0 to 001 volt on a scale divided into 100
Fid. 6.— Connoctiona.
poaitiona the coil ia allowed only a small range, its motion being
stopped by the two screws by which the iron core, C, is attached
to the brass plate, M.
The acale is faatened to a brass plate, which is secured to the
piile-piecea, projecting from them at right angles. Below the
scale, quite close to it, a mirror is attached, to enable one to
avoid making an error in the reading, due to parallax.
A slight raising or lowering of the scale may be effected
by loosening one of the two screws, S, (Fig. 3) and by
tightening Uie other one (in the figure only the upper one
of the two screws can be seen). These screws do not enter
into the poles of the magnet, but only press against them.
The whole apparatus is mounted on a wooden baseboard and
ia covered with a brass case in which there are openings, pro-
vided with glass, enabling the scale and the point of the pointer
to be seen.
Tratitpttrlubility. — For transportation it is placed in a wooden
box or leather case, and may be carried in any position.
Shaking or knocking, if not too violent, does not hurt the
apparatus. Careful adjustment or lerelling is not required, it
Ming sufficient to place the inatrument approximately horizontal.
Owing to thia fact, the apparatus is especially well adapted for
use in street cars and on board ahips. Violent shocks, though
they will not change the magnetism of the magnet, might
damage the pivots of the coil and thereby introduce the element
of friction, which is avoided with such care in the construction
tW eAo mppantut. Figa. 7 and 8 show the instruments.
divisions, readings may be taken which are accurate tu uue
hundredth tbousundth of a volt. The same degree of accuracy
is attained in the ammeters.
Hyateieait. — In a great many other instruments containing
soft iron, especi^ly if the inm is in their movable parts, the
iudications obtained for the same amomit of current are
different, depending on whether the current was increasing or
decreasing before the reading was taken. In the Weston
apparatus this source of error ia entirely avoided. There ia no
iron in the movable coil, and the immovable aoft iron cylinder
embraced by the pole- pieces is exposed to so strong a permanent
magnetic field that the reaction of the minute currents of the
coil cannot have the slightest effect upon it.
Tin Maijiiet and iU Pervutntiicy.^t was stated in the intro-
ductory paragraph that nracticaLly no change of magnetism
occurs in the Weston inatruments. To what degree the con-
stancy of the steel magnets used in the apparatus is maintained
may be shown by a test, which har^ any other ateel magnets
so far manufactured would atand. The manufacture of nugnata
having such a degree of permanency means an importsnt
progress in practical eloctro- technics.
The following experiment will tjierefore be of interert not
only OS far as these instruments are concerned, but because it
is a matter of general interest. The cover of a voltmeter waa
removed and the terminals connected with a circuit of the
highest voltage allowable for that instrument, the pointer stand-
ing exactly over the 150tb acale diviuon. A magnet takro
tHE liLEOTRICAL EJtGtNEER, APRIL 15, 1892.
381
from another Bimtlar Toltroeter was then pUced verlicallj upon
the polat of the magnet of the instrument the north
piile of the one nugnet being placed on the Houth pole of
tha other. The deflection of Uie pointer immediately went
the horizontal one with umilur poles together, and hammered
as described It maj be remarked that every instrument ia
submitted to this test before leaving the factory, and is rejected
if found not t« stend it with perfect satisfactiun.
Fio. 7. — Ammeter.
back to division 2S. Tha top of the vertical magnet was then i As an additional teat, the vertical magnet may be left
struck repeatedly with the wooden handle of some tool, as hard standini; upon the horizontal one fur months ; < < i.^
as the aoudiCy of the apparatuii would allow, which, as is well the indications of the instrument will be found li
known, is about the beat means of destroying the constancy of 1 the experiment just explaiuod above.
the power of a magnet. Notwithstanding thia, upon removing I Although tha magnetic field between the [mle-piecea and iron
the vertical magnet, the pointer immediately returned almost core is very intense, the instrument is sensitive enough to show
exactly bo division 150. Although the experiment was I to the careful observer very small changes in the reading, if
repeated very often, the difference in reading caused thereby t the instrument U turned about ita vertical axia, the E.M.F. or
Deeded one-halt a scale division. The same favourable current to be meaaurod remaining constant. Thew slight
s placed upon I changes are due to the effect of external magnetic fields, such
382
THE ELECTRICAL El^GlNEER, APRIL 15, 1892.
as that of the earth. In calibrating the instruments proper
precautions are taken in having them always in the same
position in reference to the earth's magnetic north and south.
The binding screw marked + in the voltmeters must
always point toward the north and toward the
observer, the observer facing west. In the ammeter
the two binding screws on the right side of the instru-
ment must be brought into the same position. This precauticm is
especially necessary if very accurate measurements are to be made.
Influences of external magnetic fields may be avoided also by
turning the instrument about its vertical axis, noting the
maximum and minimum readings and taking the mean of the
two readings obtained ; this moan will be the correct result.
InfixitHce of Temperature. — A very important point in elec-
trical measuring instruments, particularly in voltmeters, is their
dependence on changes of temperature, whether caused by
variations outside of the apparatus or by the heat produced by
the current within the api)aratus itself. The latter point
requires the most careful attention, especially in electric light
plants, as the indications of the voltmeter become too low by
the heating effect of the current, in consequence of which the
engineer will be apt to raise the voltage of the dynamo, to the
disadvantage of the lamps.
Careful tests of the Weston voltmeters have shown that a
variation of 35deg. F. above or below 70deg. F. does not affect
their readings more than one-fourth of 1 per cent. As far
as the heating effect of the current within the instrument is
concerned, it has been impossible to detect any variation of the
readings with any voltages within the readings of the instru-
ment— the changes due to increased resistance of the heated
copper wire being counterbalanced by the changes taking place
by the same cause in the other parts of the system. The volt-
meter may therefore be inserted into the circuit for any length
of time without sensibly affecting the accuracy of its indications.
In the Weston ammeters the independence of outside tem-
perature is not maintained with so high a degree of perfection
as in the voltmeter, still they also answer perfectly well in this
respect all practical requirements. In these a change in tem-
perature of 35deg. above or below 70deg. F. causes an error of
1 per cent, at the utmost ; the readings exceed the true value
by this small amount if the temperature rises as high as lOSdeg.
and fall short of the true value by the same amount, at a
temperature of 35deg. In regard to the heating effect of the
current it may be added that changes keep within 1 per cent,
for all ammeter ranges up to 150 amperes. Improvements being
made now, with all probability, reduce this temperature con-
siderably. In the highest range standard portable ammeters —
viz., 200, 250, and 300 amperes— the heating effect of the current
is somewhat higher. If, therefore, very high accuracy is
required the instrument should not be kept in circuit for any
length of time.
It might at first seem likely that the zero point of the
apparatus could not remain constant on account of the expan-
sion of the springs due to changes of temperature. This is
avoided by a very simple device : the turns of the one spring
run oppositely to those of the other, so that any expansion due
to temperature is corrected completely, and therefore has no
influence on the zero or the readings.
INSTITUTION OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS.
At the meeting of the Institution on the 9th inst., the
discussion on Mr. Reckenzaun's paper on " Load Diagrams
on Electric Tramways and the Cost of Electric Traction,"
was continued.
r. A. T. Snell had had some experience of tramway working in
England, and considered that its success in the end was ensured.
Whether the final system would be an accumulator, conduit, or
trolley one, he considered £18 yet uncertain. The accumulator car
load diagram showed the current required by one car only, and
there were numerous cases of no current when running down-hill
or stopping, whereas the trolley diagram referred to several
cars ; and so the periods of no current were shorter, and
there were less variations of current. The crux of the accumu-
lator system lay in the accumulators tliemselves. On the Barking
line there were four cars which ran 220 miles per day. Each car
had three fresh sets of accumulators daily, and in bad weather
four. The charging dynamo ran from 10 to 12 hours, and gave
on an average 450 electrical horse-power hours per day. The energy
given to the motors was not easy to determine, as the cells were
sometimes run in series, and at other times in two parallels, depend-
ing on the number of {passengers and the state of the roads. The
drivers were always told to start in parallel, and not to work in series
if it could be avoided. He estimated that the power avera|^ed
about one electrical horse- power hour per car mile, or 220 E.H.P.
hours per day, an accumulator efficiency of about iJO per cent. On an
average line he would put engine and dynamo efficiency at about
77 per cent., accumulators at 60 per cent., and motor, gearing, and
startingdevice at 60 per cent. — a total efficiency of about & per
cent. Ue preferred a single motor to two. There was sufficient
adhesion on ordinary roads if the gradients were under 5 per cent.
The combined efficiency with a two-motor car was about 5 per cent,
less than with a single-motor one. Where there was a field for the
former was on a liije serving between a residential district and a
town, the motors being run in series in the town and in parallel
outside. With regard to gearing, he had no experience of gearless
motors, but thought they would be best if the stoppages were not
frequent. Double reduction had the advantage that the motor
was lighter, as it could run at higher speed.
Mr. Blaokwell had had considerable experience in America.
The great mistake that pioneers there, as here, had made, was that
they calculated the ix)wer required, and calculated it much too low.
The practice of one road was no criterion of that on another ; they
varied so much both in gradients, state of the surface, and regu-
larity of load. Their fivrures were often not comparable ; the Ime
which on paper appeared to be the most expensive often paying
the best. The great difficulty in the last four years in America
had been the gearing. All kinds had been tried, but he considered
that single reauction held the field today. He was formerly much
opposed to worm gearing, but was now partly convert^, bat
would like to ask the author for some figures on the cost of working
with various forms of gearing. As to cost, he knew of no case
where horses had been replaced on a line by electric traction
in which there had not been a great increase of profit. The
number of passengers often rose 70 and 80 per cent. With regard
to Mr. Manville's remarks about interference with the telephones
he quite agreed with them. Jsx America the telephone companies
tried to get over the induction by using double wires, but found
them a great nuisance.
Mr. Condlot agreed that there would be a great advantage in
the use of accumulators at the station as steadiers. He believed
in the author's plan of dividing up the field magnets into sections
for varying the ()ower, and had gone further m America, where
they sometimes used a double armature with a commutator at each
end, the two being used either in series or parallel. He had
obtained very sood results with worm gearing, and had made some
tests in which it came out very well compared to both single and
double reduction gear. To the latter he was strongly opposed on
account of its noisiness. With regard to the weight of his cars, be
would put car, battery, and motor at 5,0001b. each, and 80 pas-
sengers at 12,0001b.
Mr. Jarman believed strongly in the accumulator system,
especially as they could be put on any ordinary line with horse
cars without altering the track. The present horse lines might
be divided into two classes — those that paid and those that did
not. The former did not want to change to power, and the latter
could not afford to. In his own work they often ran gradients of
1 in 16 with 68 passengers on a 44-pa88engor car. Accumulators
now gave them but little trouble, but he was careful not to take
larger currents from them than he could help. He preferred two
motors to one, and always used them in series when possible. In
reply to a question from the President, he could not give the coat
per car mile, including cost of renewals, but proposed to read a
paper on the whole subject at a future date. His cells had been
running two years without renewals.
Mr. Sellon objected to the author saying that the expenses of
the Blackpool line were 67 per cent, of the gross receipts. There
was some £873 to be deducted for part of rent paid to the town,
and other items, and this brought the figure down to 4*31 per cent.
Two of the winter months, also, they were running at a Ices.
Taking from April to September only, the cost was £1,524, and
the receipts were £5,570, giving 27 per cent. With retgard to
accumulator traction, he believed one set had run 4,006 miles,
with 785 discharges, and no renewals.
Mr. Crompton said that the reason cells did not last was that
the outer surface of the active material was always being jarred
off. The right direction to work in was to try and get some non-
pasted cell and also to improve the springs of the cars. In
crowded cities he thought the accumulator system was the only
feasible one.
Mr Trotter said the diagrams really depended as much on
mechanical details as on electrical ones. Much could be learnt
from both accumlator and transmission dii^rams — as to the effect
that a heavy flywheel on the engine would nave. For integrating
the curves to tmd the total amount of power, he drew them on
the oiled paper used in copying letters and then cut them out and
weighed them, knowing the weight per square inch of tha paper,
which was very uniform. For a rough test the curve when cutout
could be balanced on a pencil to mid the height of the line of
average current.
Mr. Williams said the mean current appeared only to be 30 per
cent, of the maximum, which was a very wasteful arrangement.
Americans rather objected to using compound engines, on the
ground that they were not economical at low loads. Tlits, how-
ever, was not correct. It was true, however, that a compound
had to be larger than a simple engine, as in the former steam would
not be admitted during the whole stroke, as it could in a sinele
entwine on emergency. Mr. Baker had brought a dynamo with
him from America with a 10-ton flywheel, and he thought a good
deal was to be done in storage by that means. He agreed with a
Crevious speaker that it would be well to start the motor free, and
ring it into gear by a friction clutch, as it should save a great
deal of loss in the leads, and the inertia would help the starting
instead of opposing it, at is did when starting from rest.
Mr. Swinburne wished to know why such large horse-power was
required— 30 h. p. motors on a car usually drawn by two horses.
Mr. Field had told him he was running a car with a 2-h.p. motor
coupled direct through rods, thus avoiding gearing loss.
Mr. Fraser said there was no need to use much power to start
a car if you only did it slowly enough. The starting current at
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 15, 1892.
383
Barking, with all resistance in, was 40 amperes, and the running
current about 30 amperes, the maximum being: 70 amperes for 200
yards on a 8t«ep gradient. The voltage was 100.
Mr. Reokensaun, in reply, said, with regard to the Southwark
railway, it was running under different conditions to a tram line —
being worked by signals, it could be arranged that two trains should
not start at once. He thought that if Mr. Baker had added a
competent English engineer to his staff of American ones, he
would have saved much of his preliminary expense. He spoke
of the engine at Roundhay working much under (tower — its
average output was certainly only 75 h.p. ; but a maximum of
165 h.p. being sometimes required, the engine could not well have
been much smaller. With regard to starting the motor light, and
then throwing it into gear, he had tried this nine years ago and
found it quite useless ; even when there was a 1201b. flywheel on
the motor it was pulled up before the car started. The 17-ton car
mentioned by Mr. Russell he thought a very excessive weight.
The ordinary American cars, with passengers, weighed about nine
tons. Two motors he considered much better than one, and
American practice confirmed this view; mechanical coupling of
the two sets of wheels he thought bad, as it produced so much
friction. He quite agreed with Mr. Crompton's remarks on
batteries. He could liot quite understand tne line which Mr.
Swinburne spoke of as being said to run with 2 h.p.; he himself
had begun with one 4-h.p. motor, but it would not do. The
Americans now use two 15-h.p. motors. If one breaks down, the
other will run the car ; and tne two together are wanted when a
car leaves the rails. The pull required to start a car he had found
from several tests was from 1001b. to 2001b. per ton.
BATH.
At the meeting of the Surveying Committee of the Bath Town
Council last week Mr. Stnrgeaa proposed the adoption of the
following report from the Electric Light Sub-Committee :
** 1. Your sub-committee have held nine meetings since their
report to you of the 5th September last.
** 2. The three additional arc lamps recommended in the report
have been placed on the spots indicated and give satisfaction to
the parties resident in the respective neighbourhoods.
** 3. The duties of the inspector appointed under the license
rendered it necessary that he should be provided with certain
instruments to be under his sole control irres^tective of the instru-
ments provided by the company, and your committee, after a
correspondence with the Board of Trade, and in pursuance of their
opinion on the subject, have provided him with these instruments
at a cost of £25. 2s. 5d.
" 4. The inspector, on the 4th November last, made an exhaus-
tive report to the committee upon the subject of the arc lam{)s, in
which ne stated that the public arc lamps used in the Bath electric
lighting system are properly described as 1,200 c.p., although they
do not give an effective candle-power of 1,200 candles as used in
the streets surrounded with ground glass or opal globes. From
many tests made by the ins()ector, he found them all concurring
that the ground-glass globes, when clean, absorb from 42
to 46 \)er cent, of the light emitted from the carbon at any given
anele, and the opal globes from 54 to 70 per cent, of the
light, and absorb a larger percentage of light when not properly
cleaned. As it appeared that the light transmitted depends upon
the globe used and the state of the globe, your inspector was
directed to devote pivrticular attention to ascertain what improved
globe could be recommended for use, and also to suggest a plan
by which the globes might be more thoroughly cleaned. On an
interview with your committee, and after testing several globes of
recent manufacture, he found that the Pearline globe, manu-
factured by Messrs. Rollox and Co., of 47, Holborn-viaduct,
allowed the greatest emission of light, and that the light emitted
through that globe was 30 per cent., or nearly one-third more
than the light emitted througn the globes now in use by the com-
pany. Heiuso recommended that the globes should be periodically
cleansed with caustic soda, as unless kept thoroughly clean a large
portion of the light emitted from the carbon is absorbed. These
suggestions have been submitted to the company, and to a large
extent complied with by it.
"5. As tne period for which your inspector was appointed has
now elapsed, your committee recommended that ne be again
ap()ointed as inspector under the license for another term of six
months, with the same duties, and at the same scale of remunera-
tion as in his former appointment.
*'6. The testings of ' power' have, as yet, been made by the
inspector at the company's central station. As the committee
have not yet been able to settle a convenient place for an indepen-
dent testing station, the matter is still under their consideration.
* ' 7. The committee have considered the charges of £54 made by
the inspector for his services during the period of his appointment,
and find them in accordance with the schedule of charges authorised
by the authority, and recommend them for payment.
Mr. Ctatehonae presented a supplemental report in which he
stated : *' During the past six montns two partial failures of the
electric light had occurred. The weak points in the installation
were evidently at the bottom and top of the lampposte where the
leads are in close contact and not protected by the bituminous
insulation which exists underground. For the past month the
insulation resistance of both circuits had been much improved.
Four lamps only on both circuits had partially failed during this
time, and these were burning till 4 or 5 a. m. In order to more
conveniently test both arc lamps and circuits the company had
recently put up a new testing-room at the works, which, when
completea, would afford greater testing facilities. The directors
had within the last week applied to him under Section 46 of the
Electric Lighting Act to test and register the meters they intend
to supply to all their customers. For that purpose he should
require to be furnished from the mains with the current in which
it was supplied to the consumer. It would be necessary to be con-
nected witn the mains through the medium of a transformer, so as
to enable him to obtain the current for the registration of the
meters under proper conditions."
In answer to Mr. Tftylor, Mr. Bartmm said the question of
having the inspector's office supplied with the light, so that he
might test it there, had been considered, and the only point to be
considered was who should bear the expense— the Corporation or
the company.
The reports were adopted.
COMPANIES' REPORTS.
ORIENTAL TELEPHONE COMPANY.
Directors : William Addison, chairman ; 6. St. John Ackers,
Henry Growing, Thomas Lloyd, George Bland Frost. Secretary :
Alexander B. Chalmers.
Report of the Directors for the year ending December 31, 1801,
to be presented at the twelfth ordinary general meeting of the
ComiMiny to be held at the Cannon-street Hotel on Wednesday,
the 27th inst., at 1 p.m.
The Directors beg to submit to the shareholders their usual annual
statement of accounts for the year ending 31st December, 1891.
The revenue account for the year shows a balance to credit of
£8,918. 13s. lOd., which has been transferred to profit and loss,
and including £2,250. 19s. 9d. brought forward from the previous
year, a balance remains for disposal of £11.169. 13s. 7a. The
Directors propose to deal with this as follows : To write off
£257. Os. 4d. legal and other expenses caused by the action
brought by holders of vendors' shares ; £1,466. 4s. 8d. in
reduction of capital expenditure ; to add £3,000 to reserve fund,
which will then stand at £10.000; and to pay a dividend of
2^ per cent, free of income tax on the total paid-up capital
of the Company, carrying forward £1,957. 16s. 4d. As the
shareholders are aware, a large i)ortion of the earnings of the
Company are in silver currency ; and, owing to the low exchanges
whicn have lately been ruling, the profit of the year has been
somewhat diminished. As mentioned in the report of last annual
general meeting, a copy of which was sent to each shareholder,
proceedings were taken by a holder of vendors* shares to restrain
the Directors from distributing the pi*ofits of the Company in the
manner indicated in the last annual report and accounts. The
Court having upheld the action of the Directors, the distribution
for the past year will be made in the same manner, the
2^ per cent on the entire paid-up capital of the Company
being equivalent to £3. 12s. 2d. per cent, on each ordinary
share of lis. paid, issued prior to the 4th February, 1886. The
Indian companies continue to improve. The Bengal Company
has been able to increase its dividend by ^ per cent., the distri-
bution for 1891 being 5^ per cent., whilst the Bombay Company
hsLsi declared a dividend equal to that of the preceding year— viz.
4 per cent., transferring Ks. 10,000 to its reserve and depreciation
fund. The Bengal Company already possesses a reserve fund in
cash of R«. 50,000. The Telephone Company of Egypt, after
payment of debenture interest, has declared its usual dividend of
6 per cent, on the preferred shares, carrying forward £1,414. 17s.
The China and Ja()an Telephone Company's accounts for 1890
closed with a surplus of £841. 12s. 5d. , as against £573. 16s. 4d.
for the previous year. The accounts for the past year are now in
course of preparation. The branches worked directly by the
Company maintain their revenues and in one or two instances
show slightly improved results. The shareholders will remember
that last year they approved a resolution to alter the Company's
memorandum of association so as to embrace **any business or
manufacture relating to the generation, employment, or utilisation
of electricity or magnetism, or the apparatus connected there-
with." This resolution having been duly confirmed, application
was made to the Court for permission to amend the Company's
memorandum accordingly. The application was after considera-
tion sanctioned, but the Court suggested that as the power of
extension of business was consideraoTe, the name of the Company
should be altered, and expressed approval of its being changed to
the ** Oriental Telephone and Electric Company, Limited." The
Directors see no objection to such alteration, and the resolution
mentioned in the notice on the back hereof will therefore be sub-
mitted for the consideration of the meeting. The Directors to
retire at the present meeting are Messrs. Henry Growing and
William Addison, both of whom being eligible, offer themselves
for re-election. The auditors of the Company, Messrs. Deloitte,
Dover, Griffiths and Co., also retire, and offer themselves for
re-election.
City ABdSontli London Railway. —The receipts for the week
ending 10th April were £742, against £830 for the corresponding
period of last year, showing a decrease of £88. The total receipts
to date from January 1, 1892, however, showed an increase of
£1,169.
384
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 15, 1892.
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
KAdnMi Xlttotrlo Tramways Comi^any, Limited. —Registered
by Paal £. Vanderpamp and Eve, 5, Philpot-lane, E.G., with a
capital of £100,000 in £1 shares. Object : the acquisition of certain
oonoessions granted by the Madras municipal authorities, Novem-
ber 18, 1891, and approved by the Madras Government in accord-
ance with the provisions of the Indian Tramways Act, 1886, for
the construction of tramways in Madras, in accordance with an
afirreement, made March 16, between W. Digby and S. A. Ghalk,
of the one part, and F. W. Fowles, on behalf of this Gompany, of
the other part, to carry out the construction of the said tramways,
and to work the same by animal power, electricity, or otherwise.
The first subscribers are :
Shares.
W. Digby, 1, Trafalgar-building^, Northumberland-avenue,
S. W 1
A. J. Lusty, 70, Gracechurch-street, E.G 1
S. A. Ghalk, 1, Trafalgar-buildings 1
A. E. Asser, Suffolk Lodge. Tedaington 1
M. M. Bhownaggree, Tessville, Bedford -park 1
W. A. Gibson, 4, Queen Victoria-street, E.C I
H. E. Eve, 5, Philpotlane, E G I
There shall not be less than three nor more than six directors.
The first are W. Digby (chairman), M. M. Bhownaggree, \V. A.
(ribson, A. J. Lusty, and S. A. C-halk (managing director). Quali-
fication, £250. Remuneration : W. Digby, £650 per annum ; S. A.
Ghalk, £400 per annum ; other directors, £100 per annum.
BUSINESS NOTES.
Bnlmiarliia Cables Trust. — It is announced that a ()ayment of
£1. 28. fid. will be made on account of the coupon, due on April 15,
on the 16th inst. by Messrs. Glyn, Mills, Gurrie, and Go.
8t. Jamea*8 Xleotrlo Light Company. — The value of the
carrent sold by the Gompany during the quarter ending March 31
last amounted to £10,024, as against £9,652 for the corresponding
period of last year.
The DIreet United States Cable ComiNuiy have declared an
interim dividend of 3s. 6d. per share, tax free, being at the rate of
3^ per cent, per annum, for the quarter ending March 31, 1892,
payable on and after 23rd inst.
Manitoba Xleotrio and Gas Light Company. — At an extra-
ordinary meeting of the debenture holders of this Oimpany held
at 31, Lombard-street, on Monday, Mr. L. R. G. Boyle, one of the
trustees of the debenture holders, formally resigned his post.
Xleetrie Constmotion Corporation. — At a recent extraordinary
general meeting of the Gorporation, the resolution passed at the
meeting on the 22nd ult., authorising the Directors to allot half
of the new issue of shares as preference shares, entitling the
holders to a cumulative dividend at the rate of 7 per cent, per
annum in priority to any dividend on the ordinary and founders'
Bhares, and further entitling the holders, upon a return of capital
of the Gompany, to be repaid the amounts credited as paid on their
shares before any payment in respect of capital on tne ordinary
and founders' shares, was confirmed.
Indo-Snropean Telegraph Company. — The report of the Direc-
tors for 1891 shows that the revenue from all sources amounted to
£116,699, as compared with £113,807. Deducting the expenses,
taking credit for £4,168 brought over from 1890, and debiting
income tax, there remains £58,483, from which £10,090 has been
placed to reserve, and that sum, together with £10,625, the amount
of interim dividend, have to be deducted, leaving £37,858. The
Directors propose a dividend for the six months ending December
81 of 178. 6d. per share, making 6 per cent, for the year, and a
bonus of 208. per share, both tax free, making in all 10 per
cent., carrying forward £5,983.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1892.
April 4.
6465. Improrements in eleotrioal seoondary or storage bat-
teries. George Eduard Heyl, 11, Furnival -street, Holborn,
London.
6467* Kannflsetnre of the alkaline earbenates or bioarbenates
by the eleotrolytio deeomposition of alkaline chlorides
in the presenee of gelatinons alnmina or ohloride or
eiher salt of aluminium. Eugene Hermite and Andre
DnboBC, 28, Southampton-buildings, Ghancery-lane, London.
April 5.
6551. Improrements in eleotrio reoordlng derioes for mariners'
' oompasses and other instmments. Gharles Ludwig
Jaeger, 23, Southampton-buildings, Ghancery-lane, London.
(Gomplete specification.)
0569. Improrements in telephone cables. John Edward Kings-
bury, 24, Southampton-buildings, Ghancery-lane, London.
(The Western Electric Gompany, United States.) (Com-
plete specification. )
6579. Invrerements in alternate- enrrent eleetromotors. Max
IHri, 28, /SS^o/S^Aampton -buildings, C^anoery-lane, London.
6629.
6635.
6637.
6694.
6698.
6707.
6720.
6722.
6725.
6726.
6775.
6785.
6861.
6868.
6870.
April 6.
Telephone call apparatus. Siemens Broe. and Co.,
Limited, and Frank Jacob, 28, Southampton-buildings,
Ghancery-lane, London.
Improvements in or eonneeted with monlds far eaatlBS
ribbed metaUio plates, more eapeoially intended fsr use
for casting plates for seoondary batteries. Anthony
Spencer Bower, 47, Lincoln 's-inn-fields, London.
Improvements in eleetrodes for storage batterlea.
George Eduard Heyl, 11, Fumival-street, Holborn, London.
April 7.
Improvements in eleotrio hair and skin brashes. George
Ive Spalding and Richard Leonard Hawkins, 34, South-
ampton-buildings, Ghancery-lane, London.
Improvements in and relating to
machines, eleotrio motors, oontinnons-enrreat
formers, and the like. Herbert Glenn Jackson, 70,
C^hancery-lane, London.
Improvements in the method and apparatos for register-
ing supply of eleotrioity. Gisbert Kapp, 46, Lincoln's-inn*
tieldn, London.
Improvements in dynamo-eleetrie maeblnes, John
Augustine Kingdon, 29, Marlborough-hill, St, John's Wood,
London.
Improvements in battery plates or seoondary batteries.
William Walter Donaldson and Roderick Macrae, 22,
Southampton- buildings, Ghancery-lane, London. (Gomplete
specification )
April 8.
The manniaotnre of eleotrioal fires. George Edward
Tucker, 9, Duke-street Mansions, Grosvenor-square, London.
Improvements in multiple switohboards for telephene
ezchangea Robert Pippette, 31, Endymion-road, Brixton-
hill, London.
A new or improved eleotrioal apparatus. Thomas
Higginson-Wolstencroft, 37, Ghancery-lane, London.
Improvements in eleotrioally controlling the levers of
railway signal interlooking apparatos. Leicester
Bradney Stevens and William Robert Sykes, 40, Ghancery-
lane, London.
April 9.
Improvements in eleotrioal heating apparatus. Gustav
Binswanger, 28, Southampton-buildings, Ghancery-lane^
London.
Improvements in dynamos or motors. Ralston Garrington
Kintzing, Monument-chambers, King William-street,
London.
Holding telephone receivers— vis., that part of a telephene
through whioh the oommnnioation is heard— agataat the
ear. Arthur Daniel Monies, 16, Daulby-street, Liverpool.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1886.
13341. Coveriag, etc., eleotrio wires. Newton. (McGracken.)
(Second edition.)
1891.
4794. Signalling and tolephonio systems. Kingsbury. (Western
Electric Gompany. )
5338. Xleotrio arc lamps. Grampton and Essinger.
5989 Kleotrio lighting. Lancaster.
6633. Eleotrio meters. Teague.
8378. Xleotrio current oiroults. South.
8450. Connecting eleotrioal oonduotors to snrgloal, ete., iBStm-
ments. Snell.
18290. Xleotrto switches. Lund berg.
22352. Xleotrio switches. Painter.
22782. Xleotrio aro lampa Fricker.
1892.
2254. Incandescent eleotrio lamps. Thompeqn. (Fuss.)
2329. Bleaching by eleotrolysls. Imray. (Montgomery.)
2458. Dsmamo-eleotrio generators, ete. Poole and others.
2913. Xleotro-metallnrgioeztraotioiiof sine. Nahnsen.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE UST.
Name
bnuh Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, GutU Peroha ft Telegraph Co.
House-to-Houae
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Electric Construction
Westminster Electric
Paid.
Price
Wednea
daj
Liverpool Elootric Supply
(
I
10 I
5
I
6
&
10
5
3
H
204
H
\\
8i
«i
3
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 22, 1892.
385
-nr
NOTES.
Belgimn has now 35 telephone exchanges.
Personal — Prof. Geo. Forbes is on a professional visit
to America.
BfarseilleB. — ^At the trial of the electric railway at
Marseilles, a wire broke and killed a horse, besides burning
several persons.
Brighton. — The Local Grovernment Board have
sanctioned the loan of £8^500 to the Brighton Corporation
for electric lighting.
Haslingden. — ^The Haslingden town clerk has been
requested to obtain all possible information with respect to
the Electric Lighting Act.
Institntion. — On Thursday next a paper will ^ read
before the Institution, " Notes on the Light of the Electric
Arc," by A. P. Trotter, B.A., member.
Naples. — It is announced that an electric railway is to
be constructed between Naples and Alfedena, the power
being obtained from the falls of the Volturno.
NenlMUL. — The central station of Neubad has made a
profit of £16,270 for last year, and has paid a dividend
of 5 per cent. Current is supplied representing 22,500
lamps of 16 c.p.
St. Petersburg. — On Easter Day the electric light
went out suddenly when service was being held in the
Winter Palace, and a beam was found to be in a blaze.
The fire caused little damage.
Phonoporio Telephony. — In the article from the
Times on the phonopore, it should have been stated that
the contract pending is with the Great Western, not the
Great Northern Bailway Company.
Depntations. — A deputation from the Harrogate Town
Council visited the Crystal Palace on Wednesday last week.
The Electric Lighting Committee of the St. Pancras Vestry
visited the Palace on the same day.
Anstralia. — The Bockhampton Municipality has
accepted the tender of a Sydney firm of electricians to
supply the township with electric light. The installation
is to be completed by the end of July.
Cost of Slectrlo Ughtlng. — A merchant in Bradford
gives the following as the cost of electric lamps in his
warehouse at Bradford: 200-c.p., 4d. per hour; 100^.p.,
2|d. per hour; 16-c.p. lamps, 4d. each per 14 hours.
Hnddersfield. — The station proposed for Huddersfield
has provision for 6,600 8c.p. lamps. Babcock boilers are
to be used. We wonder if the woollen manufacturers
would use these if a new factory were to be erected.
Bamsley. — The Lighting Committee of the Bamsley
Town Council intend to visit the electric light works at
Bradford on Monday, and after this visit a decision as to
the introduction of electric lighting into Barnsley will be
made.
Asores Cable. — A DalziePs telegram from Lisbon says
it is almost certain that the concession for laying the Azores
cable will be granted to a French company. Thus France
will control both this and the cable eonnecting France and
Portugal.
Tannton. — Mr. Gisbert Kapp has been appointed to
visit the electric light station at Taunton, to report upon
and value the works on behalf of the Corporation. A
special meeting on the purchase of the works is to be held
on May 3.
Slectrlo Lannohes. — Bids have been received for the
running of electric launches on the lakes at the World's
Fair» and it is understood that the Electric Launch Navi-
gation Company, of New York, offer to pay over one-tMrd
of the total receipts.
Poland. — ^The municipality of Murich-Ostran, Poland,
is discussing tenders for the establishment of an electric
railway between this town and those of Prziwos and
Witkowitz. A central station for supplying light and
power is to be established at the same time.
TnnstalL — ^The Tunstall Local Board have intimated to
the Electric Trust, who have a provisional order, and are
wishing to extend the time, that if they will undertake to
supply light within six months, the application will be
supported, but otherwise it will be opposed.
Chioago Szhlbitlon. — It was stated a few weeks ago
that Messrs. Siemens and Halske intended making an
immense exhibit at the World's Fair. It is now under*
stood that, owing to difficulties in obtaining the space
required, they have given up the intention to exhibit
Carmarthen Asylum. — ^The Carmarthen Joint Com-
mittees have had before them the question of lighting the
institution by electricity, instead of by gas as at present,
and it was decided to ask Mr. Howell, electrician, Llanelly,
to report upon the matter at the next meeting of the com-
mittee, to be held in June.
Are Lamps at Cliioago.^The World's Fair Company
will pay 20dols. per lamp for 5,000 to 6,000 arc lamps
required for electric lighting. About 100,000 incandescent
lamps will also be used, but are not yet contracted for. It
is expected, we believe, that some of the electric lighting
will be given to English contractors.
Asbestos Poroelaln. — ^M. F. Garros has communicated
to the Academic des Sciences the result of experiments
made at the Central Electrical Laboratory on the conduc-
tivity of asbestos porcelain employed as porous cell of
batteries. He finds that the resistance of ordinary is 2*75
higher than that of the asbestos porcelain.
Freneh Pliysioal Soeiety. — The annual exhibition of
the Soci^t^ Fran9aise de Physique has been held this week.
A large number of interesting experiments were arranged,
the principal interest being accorded to the repetition of
Mr. Tesla's experiments by M. D'Arsonval. Acpnsiderable
number of novel instiuments were also exhibited.
Sleotrio Welding. — A patent has been issued in
America to the Thomson-Houston Welding Company for
electncally working metals by means of the arc, upon the
process invented by Augustus de Menteres, of Paris. The
United States Patent Office has definitely decided in the
favour of this patent after prolonged interference pro-
ceedings by Benardos and Olszewski.
The Snowstorm. — A violent snowstorm astonished
everybody last Saturday. Very great damage was done to
telegraph wires — that to the lines between Dover and
London being stated as unprecedented. Even on Wednes-
day only one main line wire was restored. On the top
of Beigate Hill the snow was drifted on the banks over
6ft. high, an extraordinary sight in the middle of April.
Bray. — ^The lighting of the town of Bray is being
rapidly pushed forward by Messrs. J. E. H. Gordon and
Co. A lease of Bray Mills has been acquired, and the
dynamos will be driven by water power, but steam plant
for 100 h.p. will also be installed. The lighting will be
both public and private, the streets being lighted by arc
lamps. The alternating system with transformers is used.
Ludlow. — ^At the last meeting of the Ludlow Town
Council a letter was received from the British Electric
Installation ContracUurs, Limited, asking the permission of
the Corporation to a company laying underground and
overhead cables for the supply of electricity in the borough.
After some discussion Mr. Weyman considered tha^ ««e^
19386
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 22, 1892.
asked to give powers to a company which did not exist, and
the matter was left oyer.
Coast Commqnleatiom — A meeting is to be held at
the Mansion House, London, next Tuesday, under the
auspices of the National Sea Fisheries Protection Associar
tion, in support of the resolution to be moved on the
following evening in the House of Commons by Sir Edward
Birkbeck, urging the Government to take steps to establish
electric communication between lightships, lighthouses, and
the shore, for the saving of life and property at sea.
Madras Sleotiio Tramway. — The prospectus of the
Madras Electric Tramway Company, Limited, has been
issued. Mr. Codd, the company's secretary, we learn from
the Indian Engineer, has left for Bombay, whence he
proceeds to England. Up to date only one objection has
been lodged witJ^ the Madras Oovernment, this being from
the Telegraph Department, who fear induction will result
from the proximity of the company's wires to the telegraph
wires.
Britisli Grant for World's Fair. — The Govern-
ment having increased to £60,000 the grant of £25,000
originally made for the purposes of the British Section at
the Chicago Exhibition, the Royal Commission for that
exhibition are enabled to dispense with the revenue it
was proposed to raise by charging the exhibitors in propor-
tion to the extent of space occupied, and that therefore all
space in the British Section will now be granted free of
charge.
Coatbridge. — At the Coatbridge Town Council
meeting last week, Provost Alexander stated that the
Scottish House-to-House Electric Lighting Company had
approached the committee on the electric lighting of the
municipal buildings with a view to getting a company
formed to light the whole town, but he had left it over to
see if a majority of the Council favoured the scheme. The
proposal was favourably entertained, and the committee,
with the Provost added, was instructed to get the. fullest
information and report to the members of the Council.
Railway Station Ughting. — A complete electric
plant is being erected in Lime-street Station, Liverpool.
It is intended to light the whole of the station and offices
and the rooms in the hotel by electricity. The hotel is
already partially supplied with the electric light, but when
the new plant is ready the system will be extended through-
out the building, including the new wing now being built.
The Midland Bailway Company are also about to intro-
duce the electric light into all their offices at Derby, and
also at the Midland Hotel. The installation will cost
about £11,000.
Pamphlet on Coast Communication. — The
Plymouth Chamber of Commerce has printed and
circulated amongst members a valuable pamphlet on
" Electrical Communication on the Coasts of the United
Kingdom." It is pointed out that the Post Office could
carry out the extension with ease. Watch is kept on the
coastguard stations ; a staff of men exists. Nothing is
wanted but an outlay on instruments and telephones
between the various stations and the nearest telegraph
lines. The case put by the Plymouth Chamber of Com-
merce seems unanswerably strong.
Telegraph Rates to Anstralia. — In reply to Mr.
Henniker Heaton on Monday, the Postmaster-General said
the reduced rates to Australia and Tasmania are about 4s. a
word. To Queensland and Ne<v Zealand they remain at
about 10s. a word. The reduction is brought about by
the loss entailed being borne jointly by the Governments
concerned and the Eastern and Eastern Extension Com-
joanies. To India the charge is 4s. ; there was no inten-
^oa of propoaiag a similar reduction and guarantee to
India ; the commercial relations, he thought, would not
allow sufficient increased business.
Sonthport. — The Mayor of Southport, speaking at the
christening of the "Bonnie Southport" electric launch,
said the launching of the boat was the first introduction of
electricity into Southport by the Corporation, but before
the end of the year he hoped to see electricity illuminatini;
all the public buildings, the principal streets, and many
private houses. This launch was constructed by Messrs.
Wood house and Rawson at their Cbiswick works. It will
seat 40 persons, is 38ft. 5iB. long and 7ft. Gin. beam, and
draws 2ft. 3in. of water. It is built of bright mahogany,
and is propelled by a 5-h.p. motor. It was running at
Easter with much success.
Cologne. — ^A central station was started in Cologne on
the Ist October last year, with a starting load of 1,000
16-c.p. lamps. The output has very rapidly increased,
until at present there are over 13,000 lamps supplied. The
present station is capable of supplying up to 30,000 lights.
The station is owned by the municipality, and is interest-
ing from the fact that the plant is arranged so that the
reservoir pumps are driven from the same engine. The
total steam power is thus now kept practically constant
from one year's end to the other, as during the summer
months, when the lights are fewer, the amount of water to
be pumped to the reservoirs is increased.
Electricity in Paper-Making. — A lecture was
recently given on the application of electricity to paper-
making by Mr. E. J. Beavan, of &fessrs. Cross and Beavan,
chemists, London, in the Society of Arts Hall, Edin-
burgh, to the Scottish Papermakers' Association. The
object of the lecture was to show the comparative
cheapness of the electrical process in the manufacture of
the products used by the paper manufacturer for bleaching
purposes, and Mr. Beavan entered into calculations to show
that, with plant driven by an engine of 2,400 h.p., the
manufacturer could produce, at a daily cost of £133,
chemicals which at present cost him £300.
Bxeter. — At the meeting of the Exeter Town Council
last week, the resolution by Councillor Perry, that the sur-
veyor should prepare a report upon the lighting of the city,
was carried. The problem before the Council was whether
the lighting cost should be raised from £600 to £1,400
with a gain of 16 times the light. The Mayor said this
was an age of progress, and they must progress with the
rest of the world. He suggested whether an area could
not be defined by the surveyor, and the Exeter Electric
Light Company then be asked what they would light it for.
An amendment that the matter be referred to the Lighting
Committee was lost, and the motion was carried by 15 votes
to 4.
Bamet. — The Barnet Local Board seem to be having
the same trouble with gas as they complained of with the
electric light — at any rate the demand for rebate on account
of the lights going out are still brought up at the Board
meetings. Barnet seems not only to want, like Gh>ethe,
" more light," but, like the South-Eastern Bailway, " more
regularity." It would be happy with either, and evidently
will not be happy till it gets — at any rate the latter. Poor
Barnet ! what a long and weary struggle to obtain the light
in its 70 odd burners, and all this continual fuss while
many a private house has a large number of lamps ; and
the question of their electric lighting contract is still under
arbitration.
Ulverston. — The lighting question at Ulverston is
reaching an acute stage. There is no doubt, says Mr.
Casson, that last winter they were near a gas famine. It
is wished to put ofi* the consideration of the extension of
lighting power for a year, the chief reason for delay being
THE ELBOTMCAL ENGINEER, APRIL 22, 1892.
387
that one of the largest customers, the Lonadale Iron Works,
paying £240 a. year, has now installed electric light.
Electrical engineers can help the Ulveraton Gaa Committee
10 two ways— first, by taking off a few other big customers,
Such as the Paper Works; and secondly, possibly by the
introduction of electric lighting into the town^though
Mr. Tosfa, chairman of the Gas Committee, thinks the cost
of distribution would be too great at present.
Explosions. — In the discussion on Mr. A. L. StevensoTi's
paper on "The Present Condition of Transmiasioo of
Power," at the Society of Engineers, Mr. J. A. G. Roes
Said there was one danger from electricity often overlooked.
When a fracture took place in a wire and moisture became
condensed upon the broken part of the wire, the electrical
current produced the electrolysis of the water — that is to
Bay, the water became decomposed into its constituent
parts of oxygen and hydrogen — and that in the exact pro-
portions necessary to produce a most violent explosion,
very much more violent than that produced by coal gas
and oxygen. The process continuing, and a spark ulti-
mately being produced, the electric wire thus becomes its
own gas producer and its own exploder as well.
Piresontation. — A ceremony ol a very interesting
character took place a few evenings ago at Cadiz, the
occasion being the presentation to Mr. Charles Wilson, late
Buperintendent of this station of the Spanish National
Submarine Telegraph Company, Limitc:!, of a handsome
gold watcb and chain, and to bis wife uf an exquisite gold
tracelet. The watch bore the following inscription :
"Presented to Mr. C. Wilson by the members of the
Victoria Ctub and friends on his leaving Cadiz, March,
1892." The presentation was made at the clubroom before
a large assembly of the English colony, and hearty good
vrishes were expressed for the future prosperity of Mr.
Wilson in his new appointment aa su|)erintendent of the
South American Cable Company's station at Pernambuco.
Turbine Resmlator. — The Efvue Iiiduslridle for
April 16 contains description and working drawings of a
regulator of the Girard turbine for horizontal driving,
direct coupled to a dynamo. The system is designed by
MM. Gandillon et Vigreux. The efficiency of the turbine
ia given as 80 per cent., or even 82 per cent., with a
minimum of 72 per cent. The regulator permits direct
driving, and forms an economical installation. A plant has
been recently installed for M. Theodor Haviland, at
Montmdny, Haute-Vienne. The turbine runs at 760
revolutions under a fall of about 55ft., and driving an
Edison dynamo whose output can be varied from 43 to
S5 amperes at 143 down to 110 volts. The lighting is so
satisfactory that the Continental Edison Company are
intending to adopt the system as a speciality for their
installations.
Watorford. — The Waterford Lighting Committee have
tiot yet presented their adverse report as expected. The
borough surveyor, on the other hand, has drawn up a
favourable report, showing that the town has saved £1,100
& year by the use of the electric light, while there are two
miles more of streets lighted ; the public lighting has been
"steady and satisfactory." The present contract with
Laing, Wharton, and Down expires in September. This
-was made without provisional order, but with full consent of
the local authority. Wishing to put the matter right, they
registered a Waterford Company, and notice of application
-was given. The Waterford Corporation applied for an
order themselves, and, having obtaiued it, seem to desire to
abandon it in favour of the gas interests. Such a policy,
however, is not likely to find favour either with the
inhahltanlB or the Boud of Trade.
Free Trade In Telephones. — Free Trade, a journal
which advocates ite title as the solution of every social
question, has a sweeping onslaught on the Government
authorities with reference to the telephone question. " Yon
say regulation of telephones is necessary because it involves
public inconvenience or danger in overhead wires — so also
are sausages full of danger," and the Government has as
much right to step in and protect us against sausages, thinks
this journal ; but the " real truth " is " that Government
want to preserve their message carrying intact because they
want to open letters and read their contents." Touching
Sir J. Fergusson's recent speech, however, is a word of
wisdom. " There was a real danger," says the Postmaster-
General, "of the telegraphs being injured by the tele-
phones. What an unfortunate thing for Governments
that people wUl progress I This shows the great evil of
Government monopoly — that it stereotypes,'' and against
this stereotyping action free-traders are ui^ed to wage
continual war.
A Synagoirno Uglited by Eleotrlelty, — The
Brighton Synagogue is the first synagogue in England to
be lighted by the electric light. " Some of our readers,"
the Jewish Chronicle says, " can remember the time when
gas superseded candles as the illuminant in certain syna-
gogues. Now gas is being driven out in its turn, and the
electric Hgbtia reigning in its stead. So conservative is the
Jewish mind thit the dethronement of candles was not
acquiesced in without a murmur in every case. Gas was
an innovation, and the ' au!d lichls ' — the men, not the
illuminanta — viewed iU introduction into the synagogue
with some misgiving. To this very day gas is refused
admission into the Bevis Marks Synagogue, and the reten-
tion of candles made an article of faith. Even the quality
of the candles is deemed a matter upon which to sjiend
conservative energies. Some years ago our esteemed and
vigilant correspondent, Mr. H. Guedalla, wrote to us stating
that be had discovered a falling off in the quality of the
candles burnt in the ancient synagogue, and entered his
protest against the policy of which the deterioration was
the outward and visible sign."
Toynbee Hall Soienoe Conferenoes. — A lecture
was delivered on Wednesday evening, April 13th, by Mr.
Reginald J. Jones, M.I.E.E. and A.M.I.CE., on " Electrical
Installations," the subject being illustrated by lantern
slides and very interesting ex[>eriments. The various
methods of driving power were detailed. From actual
practice, the average cost for five years of the gas used in
a London house for driving a gas engine for an installation
of 43 lamps, was shown to have been only £11. 13s. per
annum. Storage of electricity was illustrated practically
by E.P.S. cells lighting the lecture hall. Some positive
plates were shown which had been in daily use for six
years in a private installation, and the new form of Epstein
cell was exhibited as promising to yield good results for
electric traction and central station work. The steadiness
of electric light as supplied from central stations was
demonstrated by some remarkable E.M.F. curves taken in
December last in foggy weather. The practical and theo-
retical conditions which govern the wiring of houses were
fully illustrated and explained by slides, tables, experi-
ments, and types of the most modern fittings.
Art nttlngs.— The ^l^. James's Gazette thus takes the
war^iath against inartistic fittings : " The opportunity which
the introduction of electric light into our public buildings
afibrdei to designers, for something of a higher standard
than what has hitherto been produced for gas, has not at
present been made much of. In churches, more especially,
there was room for great improvement, for electric light
fittings need be neither so cumbersome nor made of such
388
tfi£ ELSCtiliOAL $:KGtK£i:K, APRth 2S, 189^
heavy-Iookizig material as painted iron, seeing that
iplt will not suffer at all through the action of the
new illuminant At the Kensington parish church there
is at this moment a case in point A huge chandelier has,
tentatiyely we hope, been suspended in the centre of the
■aye — a position which we thought had been universaUy
abandoned, as common sense shows that it must block the
▼iew of the east end and of both eastern and western
windows. The chandelier in question is of the most
primitiye character, with absolutely nothing novel about
it, and recalls, with its two hoops and pendant lights, the
primitive machine upon which fairings were wont to be
hung and swung at village wakes. In a parish teeming
with artists, cannot a committee of taste be invoked 7 It
is not so long ago that we had to call out against an
unsightly new fresco, which, by the way, the new chande-
lier will certainly do something to hide."
Oldhanu — A special meeting of the Oldham Town
Council was held last week with reference to the establish-
ment of a central electric station in the town. The Electric
Lighting Committee asked the Council to confirm their
recommendation, adopting Prof. Kennedy's scheme through-
out There would be some few details that would have to
be arranged between the committee and Prof. Kennedy, but
these details did not affect the scheme as a whole. Councillor
Ingram read a detailed report on short-stroke direct-acting
versuslong-stroke belt-driving steam engines for electric light.
The report stated : " At the request of Prof. Kennedy, our
electrical engineer, the mayor, and myself, have been to
London to see these direct-acting engines in actual opera-
tion. We visited three several electrical depdts, comprising
some 5,000 h.p. to 6,000 h.p. At the oldest of these stations
we spent some considerable time, under the most favour-
able circumstances, for they had one of their oldest engines
all in pieces, to be thoroughly overhauled and repaired
where necessary. We had, therefore, a very good
opportunity of examining the construction and internal
condition of all the working parts and wearing surfaces,
etc We saw the inside of the cylinders, the pistons, the
valves, and steam passages, etc., and for an engine that had
been working at this great velocity for over three years we
were agreeably surprised ; and yet, when the fewness of the
parts, their light construction, and the excellent arrangements
for internal and external lubrication are taken into account,
the whole thing is explained and easily accounted for." The
report concluded : " I have therefore come to the conclu-
sion, notwithstanding my aversion to short strokes, that we
may not only safely adopt these short-stroked single-acting
engines which the committee recommend, but that they are
decidedly the best adapted for this particular purpose."
It was stated there was no street lighting in the scheme
except one large lamp in the Market-place; this question
would be considered subsequently. The recommendation
was unanimously confirmed.
Engineering Exchange. — At the meeting of the
Civil and Mechanical Engineers' Society, on the 1 3th inst,
a papei was read by Mr. Reginald Bolton, vice-president,
on the subject of the Engineering Exchange. The object
of the paper was to demonstrate the close connection exist-
ing between the interests of Westminster engineers and the
mercantUe branch of the profession located in the City of
London. Pointing out how disadvantageously situated West-
minster engineers were in the disposal of their productions of
ability and knowledge, by reason of locality and professional
restitutions, the author went on to show how great is the
need in commercial transactions of a more intimate con-
nection of consultants with merchants. After some very
instructive facts relative to the practices of agents abroad,
sad the dJfScuhiM of manufacturers who endeavour to do
merchant work themselves, Mr. Bolton concluded with the
hope that the considerations he had brought forward
would impress on professional engineers the advantages
of association with an institution formed for general
convenience, and which was destined, with their co-opera-
tion, to become powerfully representative and worthy of
that science of which the keynote is " progress," and of the
age in which it has been inaugurated. A discussion
followed, in which a number of members took part, when
opinions expressed by the author were reinforced by facta
related by several speakers, and some pertinent instances
were given of the important purchases and sales conducted
by civil and consulting engineers, and the establishment of
the exchange was admitted to be of great value to them.
The author, in replying, invited anyone interested to visit
the temporary premises of the exchange in the exceedingly
commodious and convenient clubrooms of the ** Jerusalem,
Limited, Billiter-street KC, and stated, as chairman of the
Exchange Committee, that the opening would take place on
May 2, previous to which circulars and application forms
would be sent round the entire profession as far as possible.
A hearty vote of thanks to the author closed an interesting
evening's proceedings.
Sessaoh-Gtoltorkinden Electric Railway. — The
following abstract from the Eledrotechnifche ZeUsehrift is
given in the Journal of the Institution of Electrical Engi-
neers, describing the Sessach-Celterkinden electric street
railway. The line is 3^ kilometres long, with one inter-
mediate station, and runs principally on the public
streets. The sharpest gradient is about 1 in 70 ; the two
sharpest curves are 60 metres, and one of these, being on
a gradient of 1 in 85, is the part of the line which requires
more power than any other. The power is obtained from
a Jonval turbine, giving about 40 h.p. at 98 to 100 revo-
lutions. The dynamo is a series machine, and runs at
600 revolutions, giving 700 volts and 50 amperes. The
current is taken off by two pairs of copper gauze brushes,
and it is found that there is much less injurious action on
neighbouring telephone wires than when plate brushes are
used. The load being very variable, and the cost of power
negligible, the velocity of the dynamo is regulated by a
brake. The dynamos are carefully protected from lightning,
the guards consisting of carbon points set opposite to one
another, and momentarily snatched apart by an electro-
magnet to break the arc when the machine current follows
a discharge. The apparatus has so far always worked most
satisfactorily. The current is taken by the cars by an over-
head arm, from a hard-drawn copper rod ^in. in diamer,
which runs the whole length of the line, and is joined every
100 yards to a second insulated conductor carried on the same
posts. Both conductors are on oil insulators. The rolling-
stock consists of one locomotive, four passenger cars, and
four goods waggons. The locomotive has two drum-armature
four-pole 25-h.p. motors with radial carbon brushes, and
will run in either direction. The axle of the driving
wheels run loose through the base of the motor, and is con-
nected to the spindle of the latter by gearing. The motor
is kept approximately vertically over the axle by a strong
spring, which, however, yields enough to prevent jars at
starting. The lifi;hting of the carriages is done by oil, as
the KM.F. is very variable.
Viliratory CnrrentSL — ^Prof. Elihu Thomson contri-
butes to the New York EUdricaL Engineer an account of
some experiments he has recently made with currents of
high potentials and frequencies. He has obtained sparks
in air 31in. long, in apparently continuous streams of 250
a minute. In the first experiment Proi Thomson describes
an arrangement for giving an alternative path to the dis-
charge, an incandescent lamp being placed in one of the
THE ELBCTRICAl ENGINEER, APRIL 22, 1892.
paths. The Ump is lighted with more or less briUiaacy
according to the turns, illustrating ths presence of a
neutral point. In his farther experiments he employs
1,600ft. of wire to produce the sparks 31in. long in air at
a calculated potential of 500,000 volts. A barrel of parafBn
oil is used, and in this two coils on paper cylinders, that on
which the secondary is wound being Sin. less in diameter
than the other, and has an external diameter of 13in.
It has two layers of silk, and on this 600 turns of No. 26
cotton-covered wire in one layer, with a silk thread
between the coils. The primary consists of 15 turns of
a conductor composed of five rather heavy wires laid
alongside. A second apparatus in the shape of a trough
has a primary of 10 turns and a secoudary of 500 turns,
with inanlation of thick cotton wound on cardboard
rolls covered with silk. The secondary terminals are
taken up a glass vessel like two bottles together with their
bottoms knocked out, fastened together and filled with oil,
making a long narrow-necked outlet. With this apparatus
excited from alternating-current mains, with a condenser (of
six Leyden jars), and air gap with blast of air blowing across
the gap, the sparks of 2ft. Tin. long can be obtained in air.
These disoharges pierce glass, and set heavy pine or oak
boards on fire, scorch a line over a surface of wood, and
soften glass passing over a sheet. A stick of wood is
splintered and torn by the discharge, glass vessels are
shatjiered, and inflammable matters set on fire. A beautiful
effect is produced by the insertion of a sheet of stout glass,
when the electrodes are separated about 24in. The use of
fine wire coil to pass the discharge through reduces the
periodicity, as also does the use of iron, and various notes
may be thus obtained. The inaukiting power of oil is
strikingly demonstrated. The perforation of 2in. of oil
between rounded terminals of Jin. diameter would seem to
demand a potential capable of causing a leap of 6ft in air.
XlMttro-foroe Boots. — An old saying states " there is
nothing like leather," but if there is nothing " like " it — as
"Alios in Wonderland " says, of "eating hay for a cold" —
there is some better, or, at least, Mr. Randall, who ought
to know,iB reputed to think so. Mr. Bandall is the bootmaker
the virtues of whose wares are advertised in various ways,
but the latest dodge is the worst. Walking down the
classic hill leading from St, Paul's to Fleet^treet, we
caught sight of the words, " Electro-force Boots — watch the
effect on the magnet." Slowly revolving by clockwork
were a pair of these special boots, whose gyrations caused
erratic movements on two large magnets. This was all :
and this exhibition was surrounded by a gaping crowd,
looking at the " greatest invention of the age," as
it was termed. The invention — save the mark ! — is by
Mr. H. Q. Whiting, A.P.S., M.S.A., whatever this may be,
and you are invited to step in, take a pamphlet, and buy
boots — so much extra, of courae (6h.), for being "electro-
forced." The pamphlet starts off by stating that "elec-
trici^, magnetism, and odic force are the mighty forces of
Nature now employed in so many ways for the benefit of
mankind." Electricity, this pamphlet kindly telle us, is
naed in telephony, and even telegraphy ; magnetism is
hardly worth alluding to — but the boots, the boots, are the
things to catch the — well, not conseience — but gullibility
of the King — for we find " members of Boyal Families "
quoted as purchasers. And these boots are charged,
we are told, with " odic-magnetism." " Odic force,"
says the pamphlet, " is continuous in its action and passes
throngh any known substance, as demonstrated by its
action on a balanced magnetic needle " ! The odic force,
it is etated, cures tender feet, cramp, chilblains, and even
broDohitis. A purchaser must indeed be a tenderfoot to
credit thsBQ itatunent*. All this is the most utternonaenN,
and however much Mr. Whiting, patentee and medical
electrician, assures us in pamphlet that electro-force boots
" soothe the nerves and renew brain power," Mr. Bandall
ought to know better than to countenance such measures
for selling goods which sail perilously near false pretences.
The magnet, which is concealed in the sole, affects the
needle, and thence the eye and pocket of the purchaser,
and that is all. "Odic-magnetism," or odic force, are
unmeaning terms, and none of the statements have the
least warrant of being based upon science, or upon any-
thing more than a quack attempt to promise cures under
guise of plausible names aided by most transparent tricks,
and the whole thing is unworthy of the name of a respect-
able tradesman.
CoTODtry. — The Electric Light Committee presented to
the Coventry Town Council the following report, received
from the deputation which was appointed to visit the
Electrical Exhibition at the Crystal Palace with the view of
obtaining information as to the production and distribution
of electric light : " The deputation, consisting of the Mayor,
Councillors Webb Fowler, Goate, Starley, Thomas, and
West, and the assistant town clerk, visited the Exhibition
on Friday, the 11th inst, and spent about eight hours
there. The principal stands visited were those of the
Brush Company, Crompton and Co., the Electric Con-
struction Corporation, Laing, Wharton, and Down,
and Siemens Bros., at all of which evsry courtesy
was shown, and information readily given. The
principal question to which the deputation directed
their enquiries was that of the system of distribution to be
adopted, Upon this the information gained has led them
to the conclusion that of the two systems in use, high and
low tension, the former appears to be more economical and
better suited to the circumstances of Coventry. Its leading
advantages are (1) a great saving in the first cost on
account of the smaller mains reqiured, and (2) the fact that
the current can be conveyed for a distance which is prac-
tically unlimited, whereas a low-tension current cannot
be used more than 800 yards from the generating
station. It would thus be possible, were the high-
tension system adopted, to place the generating
system in any part of the city or suburbs, and,
should a refuse destructor be erected, to place the two aide
by side, and to use the heat from the destructor as part of
that required in the boiler of the generating machinery.
But apart altogether from the last consideration, the depu-
tation are of the opinion that the greater area over which
the current from one central station can be used on the
high-tension system would be a distinct advantage in
Coventry, where consumers are likely to be scattered
over the whole city. The deputation also enquired into
the different systems of laying mains and the various
kinds of engines used in generating stations, but on
these questions they are not prepared to express ao
opinion except that further information should be obtained.
In consequence of the visit of the deputation an eminent
firm of electrical engineers has offered to anbmit, free of
cost, a scheme and estimate for the establishment of a
central electric light station at Coventry. The deputation
beg to recommend that this offer be accepted, and that any
similar offers from firms of like standing should also be
accepted." The Mayor, in moving the report, said the
committee differed from Mr. Bromley Holmes in some
particulars, but thought, when he knew the requirements of
the city, he would meet them half-way. Alderman Marriott
thought the report satisfactory, and hoped the committee
would avail themselves of all time allowable before sub-
mitting any partumlw mIhbUi 33w npcHi wu unanimonaly
adopttd.
390
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 22, 1892.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
In the Machinery Hall there is an exhibit which cannot
fail to greatly interest a very wide circle of visitors, that of
Messrs. Lloyd and Lloyd, who show an enormous
variety of tubes electrically welded by the improved
Benaraos process. Steam-pipes and hydraulic-pipes of all
shapes and sizes are exhibited : small pipes jointed together
at curves and angles, large pipes jointed with smaller pipes ;
cisterns, tubes, retorts, bends, curves, and loops of all
kinds — all neatly and firmly welded with exceedingly work-
manlike joints.
Messrs. Lloyd and Lloyd wore the pioneers in the
manufacture of gas-welded wrought-iron and steel tubes
of large diameter. At their works the first plant for this
purpose was put down and all preliminary experiments
made. After years of costly experimenting, they succeeded
in its application, and became the first manufacturers of
large gas-welded tubes, and the process was adopted by
large manufacturers like Mr. Samson Fox and Messrs.
John Brown for making corrugated tubes. The gas
welding was, however, found too costly and difficult
of application, and attention was turned to electricity
as a more reliable and convenient means of heating.
The results of the employment of the Benardos arc-
welding process, as improved by them in practice at
their Coombs Wood works, are seen in the striking
exhibit at the Palace.
The process of welding is simple. An ordinary low-
tension continuous-current dynamo is used, connected to a
large battery of accumulators. When the welding circuit
is closed, the current from both dynamo and battery
flows through a large regulatin;^ resistance. By this
arrangement a very large current can be obtained,
and the load factor of the engine is high. In parallel
with the main circuit, as many welders as desired
are connected, every welder being able to vary his
current. One terminal of the circuit is connected by
means of a flexible cable to a large carbon held in an
insulated holder, which is used by the workman as a tool.
The other terminal is either connected to the table on
which the work is placed, or to the work itself. An arc
is thus sprung on touching between the metal and the
carbon, the strength of which can be regulated both
by switches and by moving it by hand. It is found
advisable to work with as long an arc as possible,
as the heating effect is then more regular. It is possible to
obtain an arc Gin. long having a sectional area of arc of
about two square inches. When iron or steel is being
welded, it is usual to make the carbon the negative pole,
and the iron or steel the positive pole ; but for other
metals, especially for lead welding, the poles are sometimes
reversed. The accumulators used are of the Plants type,
manufactured under the Benardos patents by Messrs.
Lloyd and Lloyd themselves. They are designed so that
they may be discharged at a rate which would be ruinous
to a pasted plate.
In working, the eyes of the workmen are covered with
protectors of coloured glass, as if the eyes are exposed even
momentarily to the full glare of the arc a disagreeable and
possibly injurious eflect is produced. In weldins^ tubes the
parts are cut out to shape by the arc itself, brought to a
welding heat and placed together. One of the principal
improvements introduced by Lloyd and Lloyd consists
in a mechanical arrangement for distributing the heat
of the arc, which is made to gyrate or vibrate at
considerable speed, and travel backwards and forwards,
so distributing the heat over a given surface. In
conjunction with this arrangement a power hammer
driven by an electric motor is under the control of the
workman, and can be instantaneously brought into opera-
tion when the metal is sufficiently heated. Rapid working
is found necessary to ensure success. The men, even
ordinary workman, are found to manipulate it easily, and
no woikman has suflered in health or eyesight. The
practicality of the process has now received full
demonstration after two years' constant use, and the
Jar^e number of purposes for which it is applied are
whn088 of its euccesB. In large pipes over 6in.
diameter it is peculiarly adirantageous, as pipes of these
sizes could hai^ly be welded at all. Now large fittings
can be made from thin steel, and such fittings, 12in.
diameter and only j\in. thick, have been produced and
tested to 8001b. per square inch. For hydraulic work the
electrically-welded tubes have shown themselves a great
success. The diameter of these tubes usually does not
exceed 2in., but they are always tested up to pressures of
from l,OOOIb. to 3,0001b. per square inch. All kinds
of curved combinations are found possible, and the weld
successfully resists torsional as well as bursting straioB.
Iron barrels is another branch where electric welding is
used. They are largely made for Russia for the conveyance
of petroleum. A factory has been started in Germany
devoted to their manufacture.
Repairing steel castings is another branch of metal work
in which the process has shown itself a great success.
Messrs. John Spencer and Sons, Limited, have an instal-
lation at their works, and when a castins shows signs of
unsoundness it is taken to the welding shop, the
defective part is removed and the hollow plaoe is
filled in by fusing small pieces of special steel
into it. The economic results in this department
are of extreme importance. A still further S|)pli€s-
tion of the electric arc is for cutting and boring the metal
itself. Where large plates, girders, or masses of iron or
steel have to be cut out to special form, or to template, the
arc shows itself a tractable tool. With it as much work
can be done in an hour by burning or fusing awijr the
metal as in ten with a cold sett, and the welder can be
carried to the work instead of shifting the heavy toetsl.
Both in this country and in Russia the process has been
largely used for the repair of engineering work of various
descriptions : Facing points, where worn, when repaired,
are found to last longer than new ones ; engine frames ;
locomotive wheels, some with as many as 15 cracks in the
spokes and felloes ; engine valves mended with phosphtr
bronze ; valve frames, where worn by friction ; cross heads,
axle necks, links — in fact, all parts of the engine to which
it is possible to apply the arc. At Coombs Wood laige
wrought-iron pump rods and large forgings have been
mended. As showing the wide range of possible applica-
tions to repairing, the following mav be mentioned : Long
steel rolls, broken through the necKs, afterwards carrying
weights of four tons ; a patch put on the boiler of a steam
crane, in constant work since for several months ; a hot-
water boiler for a low-pressure heating system ; a leaUng
silver cream-jug ; and a gold sleeve-linK.
The process has been found useful in lead welding, and for
this purpose a small carbon and 10 amperes are sufficient.
The work is done with ease and rapidity, the heat being
produced exactly where required. It is interesting,
further, to notice that difierent metals can be welded
together when required. The two surfaces are broogllt
to a white heat, and rapidly brought together and presSfed
or hammered, if necessary. A specimen is shown at tlil
Exhibition of a steel plate plated with copper welded
together in this manner, and other metals can be treated m
the same way. The exhibit at the Palace is quite sufficieal
to indicate the extreme and growing importance of the alt
process of electric welding, and Messrs. Lloyd and Lloyd
are to be congratulated on the enterprise and energy with
which they have taken up the process.
While writing of tubes, we must mention the exhibit of
Mr. John Spenoer, of the Globe Tube Works, Wednes-
bury and London, which every visitor interested in
mechanical or electrical matters has probably noticed
opposite Messrs. Grompton's crane. Tubes now bear a
very large proportion in the various extraneous supplies
required in electric lighting, both for steam-pipes, electric
conduits, and also for electric lighting and telegraph poles.
The Spencer tube exhibit sets forth the various uses of
tubes in great variety : tubes for water, for steam, for
under and over ground use, for oil insulation, tubes enamelled
inside for steam or wires, besides a large assortment of bends,
curves, tees, sockets, and elbows, in as interesting form as
these somewhat prosaic articles allow. An exhibit which,
however, appeals more directly to electrical engineers, is a
very simple arrangement of small tubes in tripod fashion,
with struts and binders at intervals, forming a simple,
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 22, 1892.
391
light, ohsap, and easily-raised standard or post for electric
lamps in streets and workyarde and other similar use.
On the stand of The General Kleotrio Compaiiy is
exhibited the Aron meter, now well known all over England.
The question is forced on the mirida of ereryone having to do
with central station work as to which meter before the public
is the beat. The following considerations in favour of the
Aron meter may not be out of place at the present moment.
Leaving on one side the altemaiecurrent meters, direct-
enrrent meters divide themselves into the following
categories ; (1) Chemical meters, of which Edison's is the
bestrknown example ; (2) magnetic field meters, of which the
Aron is the type ; (3) motor meters, such as the Hookham
meter, Eiibu Thomson's, and Teague's ; (4) rotating mercury
meters, as Ferranti's ; and (5) semi-integrating meters, as
Frager's, Bichard Fr6res', and, it is rumoured, Sir W.
Thomeon's latest. All these, except tbe last, are in the market,
hut it is pretty certain none can show what the Aron meter
[The Aran Electric Meter.
baa'done— a sale of over 4,000 in England alone, and a total
of 12,000 in actual use. Tbe disadvantage of tbe cbemi:»l
meters are difficulty of reading, expenditure of power,
stoppage from freezing, and greater want of accuracy,
besides absence of direct reading. Tbe motor meters act
splendidly in tbe laboratory or test-room, where al! connec-
tions can be looked to, and all bearings are fresh, but in
practice they hardly over work so well. Further, their errors
are all for the consumer and against the company — they
are the philanthropic meters. 'They can never gn too fast,
but they certainly can go elow, or even stop. Than there
is usually no great range — say, 1 to 30. But a meter
should register 1 to 100, or even 1 to 500. In the
rotating mercury the whole registering gear has to be driven
by the current, and the slightest dust or friction is against the
company's account. In the inteKntting meters, though in a
leas degree, there is still the question of connections and
hearings. In the Aron meter there ia one principle which
ensures absolute correctness on constant work to within
J per cent, or less, without liability to get out of order—
the influence oi a solenoid on a swinging magnet retarding
a clock pendulum, or if preferred, the influence of solenoid
on solenoid. The Aron meters are in use cnnstantly at
Westminster, Kensington, Knigbtsbridge, St. James's,
St. Pancras, Chelsea, Metropolitan (Whitehall), Electricity
Supply (Qatti's), Brighton, Bradford, Preston, Glasgow,
Newcastle, Sheffield, Southampton, Northampton, and
other central stations, in many instances for several years —
a great proof of their satisfactory character.
No attempt has been made at the Palace to produce similar
efTecta to the magnificent fountain effects obtained at several
exhibitions at South Kensington, though if tbe weather was
warmer grand displays might be made in the grounds of the
Palace and with the numerous fountains therein. As aiding
tbe spectacular effect in the Palace, the fountain in the
Central Transept has ite use. It has been prettily deco-
rated by MeBBTB. Laing, Wharton, and Down. Tbe
effecta are obtained by means of incandescent lamps and
coloured covers or transparencies, principally, if not wholly,
ahelie. Scattered about on the inaide walls of the pit
are about 100 8-c.p. lamps, divided into four circuita.
Besides these there are four 100-c.p. glows, placed equi-
distant round tbe pit. About half-way down these are
coloured red. At another four points at tbe same depth
there are four more 100-c.p. coloured yellow, similarly four
coloured green, whilst at the bottom and lying under the
falling water ia a 600-c.p. Sunbeam. There are tbua four
switches for the four circuita of shells — three switches for red,
yellow, and green lamps, and one switch for the 600-c.p. Sun-
beam lamp. An attendant in charge of the switches plays
variations. Thus the four circuita of shells are usually put
on or switched off together ; then the four yellow are
switched on, or the four red or tbe four green, while the
600-c.p. ia put on with any of the coloured lamps — yellow,
red, or green. The switchboard is placed in front of the
fountain on a table. Uluminated signs are placed in the
fountain at the bottom, one on each aide, and larger signs are
pJaced at the top of the fountain pit on the Palace floor.
These can be changed in colour, one switch making them
red, another yellow. The lighta are run from a combined
Robey engine and L.W.D. "Special" dynamo. The engine
is a compound vertical, having a speed of 360 revolutions,
with the dynamo on the engine bed-plate, and coupled
direct. The engine and dynamo will work 400 16-c.p.
glows at a pressure of 100 volta. The fountain lighta are
run from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. every night, tbe illuminated
signs being left alight until 10 p.m.
THE WESTERN ELECTRIC (BELL TELEPHONE)
FACTORY.
Tbe telephone is not an indigenous plant in this country,
and it is elsewhere we must look for the aecreta of ita
development and the processes of ita manufacture. The
most important of the telephone factories of the Old World
is to be found at Antwerp, though in the future we may,
as we have done so oftan in the past, find an extension of
operations in Great Britain, It is said that Englishmen,
far from being eager to embark in new ventures of manu-
facture,, are quite wilting to let other people prove tbe
merite of the apparatus and then come in with money and
organiaing&bilitytocompetaintbetuanufacture. As regards
telephonic apparatus manufactnre,it will take us all our time
to improve upon tbe organisation at Antwerp. For some
time past rumours as to ita excellence have reached us, and
when a favourable opportunity offered for visiting the
factory we were glad to take advantage of it. The Great
Eastern Bailway Company studies carefully tbe require-
menta of ita continental traffic, and if a apecial train service,
in connection with an admirable fleet of large, apeedy well-
equipped vessels, lighted throughout by electricity, is any
advantage, this company should easily claim first place in
sDch traffic. Ita boate, both to Kottardam and to
Antwerp, are exceedingly comfortable, and tbe officers
pay the greatest attention to the comfort of the
passengers. The journey from London to Antwerp
takes from 13 to 14 hours, according to the etata of the
tides. Thus, leaving London at eight o'clock at night we
reach Parkeston Quay juat before 10, and the boat is fairly
on ita journey at 10. Thoee to whom a short voya^
possesses no terrors obtain a good night's rest in their
berths. Flushing is reached about five o'clock in the
morning, a new pilot taken aboard, who takes charge
392
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 22, 1892.
up the Scheldt. Long before Antwerp is reached the
historic tower of its cathedral is seen, and a good
view of the town is obtained as the vessel glides
along the river, right to the farther end of the
town. A train is in waiting to take the travellers
farther onward towards their respective destinations, but
oar objective is the Kae Boudewyus, where stands the
factory of the Bell Telephone Manufacturing Company,
better known here as the Western Electric Company. A call
at the hotel — a telephonic signal — and over the Antwerp
line we recognise the voice of Mr. Eangsbury, who for the
time has forsaken 79, Coleman-street for the shade of the
factory. The day and the time prove convenient, and very
soon we reach the factory gates. Before referring to the
organisation of the factory, it may be convenient to
consider briefly the requirements of telephony. As
has been said above, the telephone is an exotic. It
was reared in America, and, unlike most pieces of appa-
ratus, the receiving instrument of Bell sprung forth almost
as perfect from the inventor's hands as it is to-day. The
transmitter needed a Hughes to show what a world of utility
lay in loose carbon contacts. Then came the application
to mercantile and business requirements, till to-day there is
hardly a city of any size but has larger or smaller tele-
phone exchanges. The success of any exchange depends
upon several factors. The instruments in the hands of the
subscribers must be good, the connecting wires should be
arranged to give rise to no induction troubles, and the
exchange should connect subscribers with certainty and
celerity. Then, again, telephone manufacturers have to
provide for various wants, those, for example, belonging to
public exchanges and those for single users or domestic
and factory requirements. It is not difficult perhaps to
provide an excellent piece of apparatus for private use.
The connections here are either permanent or the changes
few in number. Just consider for a moment the require-
ments of the simplest system of one speaker and one
listener. There are, and must be, broadly speaking, four
parts to the apparatus: (1) the transmitter, in which the
sound-waves are taken up at the speaker's end, modifying
the electrical conditions in the circuit, and being repro-
duced in a more or less intense form at the listener's end ;
(2) the receiver, by means of which the sound-waves are
reproduced ; (3) the electrical connections of the circuit ;
and (4) some means by which the would-be speaker can
call the attention of the desired listener. Taking these
parts in the reverse order, the ordinary means of
attracting attention is by the aid of an electric
bell. 'niis supplementary part of the apparatus —
that is, supplementary, so far as the talking is con-
cerned— has to be added to the apparatus so as not to
diminish its efficiency, nor to demand extra wires — in other
words, the arrangement must be such that the telephone
line wire is also the signalling wire. The actual con-
ducting wires are usually of copper, bronze, or iron, with
earth returns, and call for no special remark here. The
Bell Telephone Company, or,'as it is better known to our
readers, the Western Electric Company, has devoted a great
amount of skill and talent to the perfection of a magnetic
signalling apparatus wherewith to get rid of the troubles
which arise by the use of batteries. This magnetic appa-
ratus is greatly appreciated, and has been adopted by
almost everyone. It consists of an armature rotating
between permanent magnets ; in fact, its construction is so
well known that description is unnecessary, and especially
so when we are dealing, or intending to deal, with factory
organisation rather than apparatus constructed, although,
like the preacher, we may be long in getting to our text.
We are endeavouring, however, to indicate that the manu-
facture of telephonic apparatus on a large scale calls for
business and organising powers of a high quality. Resuming,
then, the reference to the parts of apparatus, the signalling
accessory is the best and most ingenious known, and the
transmitter and receiver are about as perfect as can be
made. The greatest ingenuity, however, is found displayed
in the switchboards which are necessary for exchange
work. How complicated, or how simply complicated these
become, is of the utmost importance. The fewer the
operations the less probable is trouble from subscribers
because of mistakes. For years past the Western Electric
Company has continually employed the services of experts
to investigate the working, to perfect the apparatus, and
to enable the company to produce the best possible
mechanism for the purpose to be achieved. Consider one
speaker and two possible listeners. There must be an
arrangement by means of which one possible listener is cut
out of circuit. Have two possible speakers with two possible
listeners — say, Sj S^ are the speakers, and L, L^ the
listeners — the apparatus must allow the following com-
binations : S, with Lp S^ with L«, S^ with L,, and Sj with
L2 ; while if the listeners are to become speakers the com-
binations provided must be S, S^, St L^, S^ L2, Sa L^i S, L^,
and Lj L2. Further, suppose the numoer of surocriDers to be,
not four, but four thousand or forty thousand, then the
problem becomes to find the simplest connections and
apparatus which allows any one of these subscribers to be
put into communication with any other subscriber, without
the possibility of conversation being overheard or inter-
rupted. A study of the Western Electric exhibit at
the Crystal Palace Exhibition will show the admirable
way in which their portion of the business is done.
It will be found that, not only the switchboards, but all
parts of telephonic apparatus consist of a large number of
small parts, and it becomes necessary in the manufacture to
organise a factory — that is, if the apparatus is to be pro-
duced at a reasonable price — so that these various parts
may be produced at the cheapest rate in large qoantities
exactly to pattern. The factory in the Kue Boudewyns
has been erected and equipped with the one object
to produce the best work at the lowest cost. The
whole equipment has been under the direct supervision
of Mr. De Warr, who laboured under the difficulty
of not understanding one word of Flemish when
he arrived in Antwerp, but who has nevertheless
surmounted all difficulties, and at the present time has the
control of over 600 workpeople, to most of whom Flemish is
the mother tongue. A large proportion of the workpeople are
girls, who are found to be on the whole more trustworthy
than men. Quite a number of the machines are tended by
girls, who become exceedingly dexterous in their wors.
One peculiarity an Englishman notices in the factory is
that the machinery is wholly American, from the I60-h.p.
engine downwards. There is, we think, but one exception,
if the emery wheels are excluded. This peculiarity, how-
ever, ought not to be unlooked for. The Americans seem
to have altogether outstripped us in the race for providing
machinery for small delicate productions — as witness the
machinery for constructing the various parts of watches.
It would perhaps be interesting to describe quite a number
of the machines used, but it would hardlv be fair to those
who have with immense pains and skiU developed the
work. Suffice it then to say that from first to last almost
every operation is carried out by machinery — and by
machinery of such a character that the attendant can hardly
make a mistake. Take the boring of holes : the piece is
rigidly fixed, and if the attendant wished, he or she could
hardly get the holes of the wrong size or in the wrong place.
Again, in the making of certain screws, the girl attendant just
puts in the raw material as quickly as she can and the com-
plete screw falls into a tray. It is almost incredible to find
that a girl is thus enabled to produce several thousand screws
per hour, all so exactly similar that the stock-room
attendant merely shovels these screws into scales, counting
them like bank cashiers do sovereigns — by weighing. At
another point we notice slabs of brass being run through a
machine, portions of the requisite size being punched out
and shaped, and passed on to girls who soon fashion the
rough material into the finished wheel. Thus, we may take
it, a good deal of the raw material comes in at one end of
the room and passes out into the storeroom in the finished
state at the other. Some parts have, however, to be
polished, some to be electroplated. These are taken to
special departments, and gradually, in the finished state,
find their way to the stores. There are also polishing-rooms
for woodwork, testing-rooms for all electrical parts, and
finally the fitting-rooms, where the parts are put together.
The beauty of make and finish is better understood by
a visit to a fitting-room than to any other part of the
factory. The less the manual labour actuallv employed in
the fitting-room the more nearly is the peneotion of the
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 22, 1892.
393
manufactnre of parts obtained. The outpnt at Antwerp,
ezelneive of the awitchboard department, is from 160 to
170 of the ordiDary telephone teta, and about 80 of the
watch telephone sets per day. Special attention has also
been given to a domestic set of apparatus, for which there
eeems to be indications of rery large demands in the near
future. We have said sufficient to indicate the important
position of the Antwerp factory. It is but natural that
Mr. Kingsbury, who has so long and so ably represented the
company in iSigland, and Mr. De Warr, under whose super-
vision these excellent results are obtained, should be proud
of the industry which has grown up under their fostering
SWINBURNE'S HIGH-TENSION
EXPERIMENTS.
There is an extraordinary fascination in watching man's
supremacy slowly increase over the giant forces of Nature.
Steam is now no longer feared even at pressures which
would have made Watt himself, the great steam-tamer,
pale with misgiving. Timorous persons will now trust
themselves with calm confidence to the risk of trains
speeding gt 60 or 60 miles an hour, when once the idea of
15 or 30 brought the heart in the mouth, and we now must
turn to the dreams of inventors — the electric train built
for a speed of 400 miles an hour, or the ideal flying
machine itself — if we wish to bring to the minds of
to-day the breathlessness of early times. Something of
this kind of thought must have passed through
the minds of the representative assemUy of electrical
engineers who were drawn together on Wednesday lost
week, to the dim-lighted recesses of the Prince's Room at
the Crystal Palace, in response to Messrs. Swinburne and
Co.'s invitation, to witness the performance of their
130,000-volt transformer. It is not so very many years
Bgu that the same feeling of daring was called up by Mr.
Ferronti with his jump from 100 volts— then the ordinary
firessure — to 2,600 volts at one bound. His later leap,
rom 2,600 up to 10,000, caused the same feeling
of wonder, and perchance of overwhelming danger,
forebodings now subsiding in the levelling power
of custom. Then came Messrs. Siemens's Frankfort
experiments with 26,000 volts, and later their beauti-
ful demonstrations now to be seen ia the Pompeian
Court at the Crvstat Palace, where 600 lamps are run in
series, and the lightning-like discharge over glass demon-
spates the powers of the enormous potential of fiO,000
volts. Mr. Tesla in his classical lecture (which we are glad
to be able to begin in revised form this wMk) spoke of, and
doubtless obtained, presauree rising to some hundreds of
thousands, even millions, of volts, which, curiously enough,
by multiplying up the frequencies of alternation became
practically harm leas, approaching in its effects the discharges
of an induction machine. The enormous voltages then spoken
of have inspired still higher flights in pure alternate-
current transformation, and in the 130,000 volts produced
by Messrs. Swinburne we have the highest point yet
reached in acLual current from the secondary of a trans-
former on this side the Atlantic. We have to add these
last words, for at the very time Messrs. Swinburne's invi-
tation reached our hands there also reached us the account,
which we give in abstract this week, of still higher flights
in electrical potential from the laboratory of Prof. Elihu
Thomson, who, with small coils in a barrel of paraffin,
produced pressures reaching, he states, half a million volts,
giving sparks nearly 3ft. long in air.
What the outcome of all this forcing up of enormtus
potentials will ultimately lead to no one can yet pretend to
say, but that an extreme usefulneas in the long-distance
transmission of power from natural resources may even-
tually be looked lor in this direction, most electrical engi-
neers seem inclined to agree. A telling example of the
possibilitieH in this direction has been mentioned by Mr.
Swinburne, who stated that with the current from his
latest transformer 50 h.p. might, were the wire laid, be
transmitted along a strand of wire no thicker than a hair i
from Niagara to London itself, with a loss of only 3 h.p.
on the route, or i per cent Prof. Eliha Thomson u I
credited with practical views upon the ntilintion of these
great pressures, and in the field for experiment on a grand
scale soon to be opened at the Chicago Exhibition we
may perhaps see these veritable lightnings harnessed and
set to work lighting cities, driving factories, and performing
all the arduous mechanical work of mankind.
In spite of the knowledge of the fact that the fear of a
thousand volts, or even of ten thousand volts, had been
long almost forgotten, and that a hundred thousand or so
should also be tameable by man's wits, it was, no doubt,
with something of awe that the visitors saw Mr. Bourne
and Mr. Swinburne, as lecturers, in evening dress, sur-
rounded with a bewildering array of wires, transformers,
and apparatus through which passed currentat 130,000vo1ts,
and it could easily be understood that the demonstrator in
his experiments preferred to watch the switch rather than
to lose hie control of the force in watching the effect of
the currents he was manipulating. Mr. Swinburne in a
few words explained the arrangement adopted, a diagram
of which, by bis kindness, we are able to give herewith.
The current wu obtained from the large 100,000 watt
Brush Company'^ Mordey alternator in the Machinery
Hall of the Pakce Exhibition. This current was led in
at the pressure of 2,000 volts, and first reduced by a step-
down "Hedgehog" transformer to 160 volts. 'This was
to allow the manipulation of the switches to be perfectly
safe. The current was transformed up once more and
passed into the primary of the 130,000-volt "Hedgehog,"
which was contained in a Call earthenware drain pipe,
standing 6ft. or 6Ft. high, filled in with oil insulation. 'The
exciting current was passed in series through a water
resistance in a similar drain-pipe tank, having a metal plate
at the bottom, and a conducting float which could be raised
or lowered in a simple manner by a crank handle. The
high-tension transformer, it was explained, was to all
intents and purposes an ordinary " Hedgehog," with paper
insulation, thoroughly baked and then exhausted and
filled in with hot oO : to prevent difficulty with sparking the
terminals are taken out, one at the upper and the other at
the lower end of the tank, in the memod first suggested by
Oramme for high-tension induction coils. There would be
no difficulty, it was stated, in producing 160,000 or 160,000
volte from this transformer.
The first experiments showed the lighting of vacuum
tubes by induction, a reproduction of the Tesla experi-
ments. The high-t«nsion current was led to a primitive
condenser, made up of a few sheets of tinfoil separated
from each other by a heap of brown paper. A break was
made in the circuit, where an arc could pass, and this arc
was arranged so that it could be blown out by means of a
foot blower, as in Tesla's experiments, to obtain a surging
vibratory current, but the break in Swinburne's experi-
ments was made on the high-tension current, and not, as
arranged by Tesla, in the low-tendon circuit Vacuum
lubes were brilliantly lighted when placed near the wires,
or anywhere in the eleotrottatte i- ~ ■*d.
394
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 22, 1892.
The next experimsnt Bhowed that ilate, usually con-
sidered a good ituuUtor at these presaures, became a good
conductor. Mr. Bourne fitted a pair of ordinary alate
pencils as the arc carbona, and a long buzzing arc was
immediately struck from these slate pencils. They, how-
ever, soon grew hot by the added resistance. Experiments
were then sbown of the striking distance of this high
potential. Two ordinary ladies' bonnet-pins were taken
and arranged some inches apart: the arc struck easily across
5-2in., and could be obtained, it was stated, across Slin.
An experiment vas also shown to demonstrate the tact
that the arc will not strike with anything like the same
ease between polished brass balls, as only between Sin. or
so would it strike ; and a peculiac fact was pointed out
that the arc between polished balls left no perceptible
trace on the metal.
A further demonstration of the conducting power of
slate at these high pressures was shown by the use of an
ordinary roofing state, to and from which the high-tension
spark easily passed. A striking experiment, in which Mr.
Musgrave Heaphy evidently took special interest, was the
passing of the current through a piece of wood. Little bright
stars appeared amongst the cracks in the wood, and after a
minute or two the whole length buret into violent flame.
The next experiment was an important one, to demon-
strate Mr, Swinburne's contention that oil insulation, con-
trary to the statements of David Brooks, Mr. Tosia, and
Prof. Hughes, is not self healing after the passage of a
spark ; at any rate when there is any power behind it, and
actual current can flow. The two terminals were inserted
in a vessel of rosin oil, and brought to within fin. or ^in.
of each other. A spark passed and the oil burst into a
violent, spluttering flame, which continued while the
current remained on — as Mr. Swinburne remarked, a trans-
former with a flame in it such as that could hardly be said
to be self-healing. A curious efi'ect was next pointed out
by Mr. Bourne, in a cuplika cavity caused on the surface
oi oil, over which one of the terminals was placed at a
distance too great for actual discharge : this effect was
attributed to the bombardment of the charged particles
of air.
The dischai^e of the high-pressure current over the sur-
face of a glass plate — termed by the experimenters the
" electric octopus," from its winding arms of flame — was
shown, and vividly impressed spectators with the almost
uncontrollable power of the full pressure from the trans-
former. The glass plate was pierced and smashed by the
force of the discharge. A last and moat striking experi-
ment was the direct dischai^e of the full pressure through
a vacuum tube several feet long, furnished with electrodes
which were connected to the two high-pressure terminals.
A most brilliant glow suSused the whole tube, lighting up
the entire room, and giving sufficient light, as we tested,
to enable small print to be easily legible 10ft. or 12ft. away.
The whole set of experiments were intensely interesting,
and Messrs. Swinburne are to be congratulated on their
production of satisfactory apparatus capable of standing
such pressures.
A.mongst those who witnessed the experiments were ;
Prof. W. E. Ayrton, Mr. T. H. Blakesley, Sir Frederick
Eramwell, Prof. Viriamu Jones, Mr. Musgrave Heaphy,
Dr. A. Muirhead, Prof. Robinson, Captain Henshaw Russell,
Mr. J. W. Swan, M.A.. Mr, Desmond FitzGerald, Mr.
"Wimburst, and others.
AN INTRODUCTION TO QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL
ANALYSIS.
BY BARKER NORTH, Aa90C.R.C.3C, (LOND,),
Joint Author of " Introductory Lessons " and " Hand-book
of Quantitative Analysis,"
(Cortduded from page 3S4.J
Preparation of Rkaqents,
It may often happen that the student cannot procure
some of his reagents, so that it will be necessary for him lu
prepare them, and in any case, whether he bu^s them
already prepared or makes *them himself, he will find it a
great advantage to acquire the manipulation and to have a
knowledge of the making and purifving of reagents. In
most cases the commercial salts will be quite pure enough
for ordinary qualitative analysis, but it will occasionally be
necessary to purify them by recrystallisation before they
CUD be used with safety.
CTijslallisalioii.—'Vfith few exceptions, when water is
heated, it is capable of dissolving a greater weight of a
soluble substance than when cold, and, therefore, if we
make a saturated solution of any substance at the boiling
point, on allowing the liquid to cool, the water will no
longer be able to hold the whole of it in solution, but some
will be precipitated as a solid. If the liquor cools slowly
well defined crystals of the substance will be formed, hence
the term crystallisation.
Recrysiaiiisation of Copper Sulphate.
E/perimmU 31, — Dissolve about ^Ib. of commercial cupric
sulphate in hot water in a porcelain evaporating-baein, and
boil the liquid till it is saturated at the boiling point — that
is, till it shows signs of crystallisation while still hot. Cover
up the basin and allow it to stand tor several hours till
quite cool, when it will be noticed that the bottom of the
basin is covered with fine, large, blue prisms. Drain off the
mother-liquor and treat the latter aa before, by evaporating
down till it is saturated and then allow it to crystallise
overnight. The crystals thus obtained should be recrya-
tallisedtwo or three times in the same way in order to
completely separate it from the iron which is generally
present as an impurity. When the crystals are obtained
pure, they may he washed with a little water and dried
welt with blotting-paper.
Other salts may also be purified in the same way.
Pieparathii (f Cupper Sulphate frmn Copper, etc.
ExperimetU 32. — In some cases it may happen that the
student may not be able to obtain the different salts — such
as copper sulphate and nitrate, zisc chloride and sulphate —
and these may then be obtained from the different metals
by dissolving in the acid corresponding to the salt required,
afterwards crystallising out from the filtered liquor in the
manner above explained.
Cover about 50 grains of metallic copper in a flask with
strong sulphuric acid and warm till all action ceases, taking
care, however, to have the copper in excess. Filter and
crystallise out the copper sulphate in the usual manner.
Prtparatiun uj J'lalinic Chlvritl-- from Scrap Platinum.
Experiment 33. — Waste pieces of platinum wire or foil
which are no longer of use in testing should be preserved,
and, when a sufficient quantity has been obtained, made into
platinio chloride. In order to accomplish this the metal is
dissolved in aqua regia, which consists of one part of strong
nitric acid mixed with three partsof strong hydrochloric acid,
and the liquor evaporated down to get rid of the excess of
acids. Dilute with water and add a solution of ammonium
chloride to precipitate the platinic chloride as the double
salt PtCI,,2A.mCl. This is filtered off, on a Swedish filter-
paper if one can be procured, and afterwards washed well
with alcohol and dried. The precipitate is now transferred
to a [jorcelain ctncible, and if Swedish paper has been used it
may be burnt and the ash added to the precipitate, the whole
being then ignited gradually to bright redness for several
minutes with the foot blow-pipe. By this means nothing
will remain, if the experiment has been carefully conducted,
but pure spongy platinum, which may be again dissolved in
aqua regia and evaporated down to dryness several times
with hydrochloric acid, ao as to get rid of the excess of
nitric.
The pure salt is dissolved in 10 parts of water, and the
solution will then be ready for use.
Pr^aratitm of SUwr Nitrate from Metallic f^Urer.
E'xperiment 34. — Silver nitrate may conveniently be pre-
pared from a silver coin, such as a sixpence, by dissolving
in warm nitric acid in a small flask. When the metal has
quite disappeaied add dilute hydrochloric acid till all the
silver is precipitated, and filter off the chloride of silver on
a lar^e paper, afterwards washing the precipitate well to
get rid of the unprecipitated copper.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 22, 1892.
3S5
The silver may then be recovered by either of the tiro
following ways :
1. By fuBiDg the pure chloride of Bilrer oa eharcoal with
fusion mixture in the ordiuary way, ood afterwards dis-
Bolving the bead of silver, which has been previously
cleaned with hydrochloric acid and water, in nitric acid.
The solution is evaporated to dryness, the residue geutly
fused, and then dissolved in 20 porta of water, flltering if
necessary.
2. By bringing the washed chloride of silver prepared
as above in contact with clean strips of line and dilute sul-
phuris acid in a porcelain basin, the precipitate may be
reduced to the metallic state, the chlorine being taken
away by the zinc. The silver thus fonned is collet^ed ou a
filter-paper, washed with dilute sulphuric acid and water,
and finally dissolved in dilute nitric acid, from which solu-
tion the pure silver nitrate may be obtained by evaporating
to dryness and gently fusing as before.
Preparation of Other ReagmU.
With the manipulation thus acquired, and the knowledge
of theoretical chemistry already possessed by the student,
he will DOW be able to prepare any other reagent which may
be needed.
How TO Hake a SuLPHURErrKD-HYDRooKN Apparatus.
As a large quantity of thin gas will be required for
analysis, and in many cases only a small quantity at a time,
the student will do well to provide himself with an appa-
ratus such as ii shown in Fig. 16, by which means he will
Fio. 16.
be able to generate a stream of sulphuretted hydrogen at
any time and stop the same when necessary. If a small
quantity of sulphuretted hydrogen only is needed, the
apparatus figured in Fig. 8 may be employed, but for all
practical purposes one of the two following arrangements
IS the best.
A vessel, B, of a convenient shape, such as a lamp-glasi
cylinder, is furnished with two well-fitting corks, through
each of which passea a leading tube, as in Tig. 16, and toe
whole is supported by means ^ two rings on a retort stand,
C. The interior of this vessel is about half filled with large
Siecea of sulphide of iron, which are prevented from falling
own into the lower neck by a circular piece of lead, a.
The tube at the bottom communicates by stout india-
rubber tubing with another vessel. A, which contains dilute
hydrochloric acid, and this is tied up with cord so that it
can be hung up by a loop at difiTerent heights, by which
means the acid can be brought either into contact with the
sulphide of iron or, by lowering, taken away. A clip, h,
on the delivery pipe serves to reguUte the stream of
sulphuretted hydrogen, and the corks, preferably india-
rubber, should fit extremely well so as to prevent either
leakage of gas or acid.
A more convenient form of apparatus, though one which
cannot be fit up so cheaply as the latter, is shown in Fig. 17.
It consists of a chloride of calcium tower, A, containing
lumps of sulphide of iron in its upper portion, and the
lower part of which is connected to a tubulated bottle, B,
containing the dilute acid, the latter being raised or lowered
for starting or stopping the current by supporting it on
blocks of wood as shown. The corks should in this case
also be well-fitting, otherwise accidents may easily occur,
resulting in the loss of acid.
KEYED CASING AND COVER FOB ELECTRIC
LIGHT WIRES.
We have recently bad brought to our notice a new design
in electric light casings which has been registered by £&.
Geo. G. Sarney, of 146, Mayali-road, Heme Hill, S.K From
the accompanying illustration it will be seen that when the
suing is used on the walls of buildings, and fixed flush
with the plaster, the capping forms a key to it. When so
fixed should it be necessary to look to or alter the wires,
tbe capping can easily be removed without breaking away
the edges of the plaster. In new buildings in the course
of erection it can be used as a ground for plasterers to
gauge to. This device should also prove extremely useful
and economical to contractors wiring buildings when the
pkatering is finished, because the chases cut in the walls,
etc., can t>e cut so much smaller than when the ordinary
casing is used. Ordinary types of casing offer no support
~r-
-r
to the plaster used for making good, and this means a mass
of material must be put on to get it to adhere properly to
the plaster on the walls, and naturally a larger chase must
be cut. The keyed edge of this casing does support the
plaster, and therefore the use of a smaller chase and less
material, thereby considerably reducing the cost of cutting
away and making good.
Primary Batteries, — The extension of electrical
applications in all directions has led many to give con-
tinned attention to the cheapening not only of large but of
small generating plants. In one direction we see primary
batteries giving place to accumulators, as in the large
telegraph station, while in others primarv batteries are
boing strongly advocated as a sufficiently cheap method of
production. The competition inaugurated by VElettricUa,
of Milan, for the beet primary battery, with a prize of
2,000t., has received notice in nearly every technical paper,
and is worthy of attention by those who have been working
in this direction. The prise battery should at least be able
to produce the kilowatt-hour at a price not exceeding one
lira, or tenpence. It should not require supervision in
action, should not fall in potential more than 6 per cenL
in 16 hours, and should not give off bad gaeei or IBW"-
Thermopiles are admitted, it appears. T^'
clorea at the end of August
396
TflE ELECTRICAL UNGlNHER, APRIL 2-2, 189^.
THE
tLECTRICAL ENGINEER.
Pablished every Friday.
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Editorial and Pablishlng Offices :
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Notes 385
The Crystal Palace Exhibi-
tion 390
The Western Electric (Bell
Telephone) Factory 391
Meetrs. Swinburne's High-
Tension Experiments 393
An Introduction to Qualita-
tive Chemical Analysis .. 394
Keyed Casing and Cover for
Electnc L&ht Wires 395
The Pacific Cable 396
The French Elmore 397
The Electric Motor : A Prac-
tical Description of the
Modem Dynamo Machine,
More Particularly as a
Motor 398
Correspondence 397
Electnc Travelling Cranes 399
Electrical Testing Instru-
ments 399
The Weston Voltmeters and
Ammeters 400
Hedgehogs and Snakes 400
ESxperiments with Alternate
Currents of High Poten-
tial and High Frequency 401
Physical Society 405
Companies' Reports 405
New Companies Registered 407
Business Notes 408
Provisional Patents, 1892 ... 408
Specifications Published 408
Companies' Stock and Share
List 408
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THE PACIFIC CABLE.
Our readers are familiar with the fact that for some
years past a determined attempt has been made to
extend telegraphic communication firom our North
American colonies by a Pacific cable to our Australian
colonies. They also know that the Australian
colonies are at present dependent upon the Eastern
Extension and the Eastern Telegraph Company for
such communication. These companies have driven
the hardest possible bargain with the Australian
group of colonies, and when agreements have come
to an end, have played off one colony against another
to obtain their own ends. The Eastern Extension
and the Eastern Company are really one concern,
worked, by one set of ofl&cials, but with two sets of
directors, the reason for which no man knoweth,
unless it is to get a double amount of directors'
fees — principally for the same men — and to put
friends into directorships wherein they may take
fees. Of course, it is the aim of the managers of
these companies to retain the monopoly they now
hold, and one of the methods in vogue is to manu-
fercture public opinion. The consensus of expression
of opinion in the public press is of immense weight
only so long as it is known or thought to be
independent. In times gone by, when the monopoly
was threatened, it was customary to excite the
popular imagination by appeals through the press,
as the following extracts from the history of the
1884-1886 agitation will show. Both here and
in the colonies a considerable amount of labour
was gone through in educating the newspapers
in the way they were required to go. Take
the agreements with New Zealand and New South
Wales, which ended in February, 1886. As early
as November, 1884, Mr. John Pender commenced
his crusade and to put pressure on these colonies.
Negotiations did not go quite smoothly, and we find
some very peculiar expressions used towards Sir
Julius Vogel, then Commissioner of Telegraphs in
New Zealand. Here is a sentence taken firom a
communication of Mr. Pender's to Vogel, 81st March,
1886 : ** You negotiated and arranged the terms
for present cable between New Zealand and
Australia, and know why the cost was so much in
excess of what a cable could be laid for to-day." The
italics are ours. Is it an insinuation of something
underhand, or what? Vogel replies 2nd April,
1886, that ''he does not know why the cost of the
cable was . . so much in excess of what the
cable could be laid for to-day, and he would be glad
of an explanation of the cause to which you refer."
No explanation was forthcoming, except the follow-
ing on 6th April, 1886, '* The Postmaster-General
having negotiated the contract for the existing cable
is as well acquainted with all the details as I am."
As outsiders, we read this as a miserable innuendo,
and when met with a point-blank request for
explanation there is a quick climb down.
The negotiations go on, but not satisfactorily so
fajc as Pender is concerned, and so he brings other
guns to bear. Public opinion is to be roused, and
his agents proceed to accomplish the task set them.
Here is the result. Tasmanian agent, 28th Sept.,
1886 : " Chamber of Commerce and leading
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRtL 22, 1892.
S97
merchants promise to do utmost," Sydney agent,
4th Octoher, 1886 : " I have telegraphed all this to
Browning, for New Zealand Press." Adelaide
agent, 4th October, 1886 : " Correspondence sent to
papers on Saturday." Taemanian agent, 6th October,
1886 : " Victoria will have nothing to do with
Pacific scheme. Chairman's wish noted. Will
keep you well informed." From same. 13th
October, 1886 : "Argils will publish an article on
the correspondence with Vogel this week." Mel-
bourne agent, 20th October, 1886 : " Ask chairman
to wire thanks to the editor of the Argiis and
Age for ablo leaders." There is a singularity
in Pender's letters of 20th October, 1886, which
may be noted. To Vogel he says : " I should
feel obliged if you would give me an early reply to
the above proposal," while to the Postmaster-Goneral
of New South Wales and Victoria he writes:
" Regret the decision of the New Zealand Govern-
ment not to reopen negotiations." On the 21st
October the Sydney agent evidently knows a lot
about an unpublished and, in fact, an unpresented
report. He says: "Government are considering
Pacific scheme which proposes transmitting Govern-
ment telegrams free up to amount of subsidy.
Crackuell will report dead against it, but has to give
total cost to this colony for Government telegrams
last yesir. This is £10,800, and will create a sen-
sation." The New Zealand agent on 27tb October,
1886, says : " Wellington papers reviewing leader
from Argus say, 'admire cleverness and activity
with which the company are working up public
opinion in Australia in their favour.' "
We have said enough to show the importance the
present holders of the monopoly pay to the Pacific
cable scheme, and it may be taken for granted they
will in the first place try all they know to ruin it, and
if this is found impossible, to move heaven and earth
to get the control of it. From past experience, the
Colonies and the other Governments interested
should fully understand the energy of the opposition
of the men with whom they have to deal.
THE FRENCH ELMORE.
The report of the French Elmore Company will
be found elsewhere in our columns. It is unsatis-
factory reading, the principal object being to obtain
more money from a confiding public. We confess
to an utter inability to understand the compHcated
workings of finance. AVe confess to an utter inability
to understand the argument and report of M.
Secretan, upon which it is hoped to get this extra
money. Plain business men, estimating for a
maximum output of 300 tons monthly, would
be quite satisfied with laying out the factory
for an immediate output of 80 tons monthly,
with provision to extend as orders came in
and the output pro\'ided was reached. So far
as we can gather, M. Secretan takes the view that
immediately work is commenced an output of
300 tons will be required. It is usually found, how-
ever, that orders do not come so easily, and that
some time elapses before the full capacity of a works
is reached. If the total requirements for France
reach 18,000 tons, it can hardly be expected that one-
fifth of the orders will immediately be diverted from
present channels to the new concern. It is easy to
say the results of tests warrant the belief in a large
ultimate demand, but buyers want to see the
teaching of experience rather than the teaching
of expert evidence. We are of the opinion that
M. Secretan ought to have been satisfied with a
first equipment for 80 tons output, and the directors
ought not to have permitted so great a departure
from their original programme. As it is, their
capital is gone before they have commenced produc-
tion, and unless they can obtain more capital the
company will be wholly unable to continue opera-
tions on a scale auificiently large to bring in
satisfactory returns. M. Secretan's figures may
be perfectly correct — they are not warranted by
judicious finance, and ought not to he accepted aa
proof by investors. They are no proof that the
company can command the business estimated.
OORRESPONDENOE.
I nwdi that both he haird."
WIRING HOUSES.
Sir, — Referring to your leador in your issue of the 15th
inal., respecting the hesitancy of householders having little
or no interest in their holdings to incur the expense of
putting in electric light fittings, seeing that such fittings
aa uanaily laid in a bouse come under tbe heading of
fixtures, and as auch therefore become tbe property of the
landlord oti tbe expiry of tbe lease, will yoii kindly allow
US to point out that we think it quite practical to fall in with
your suggestion in dealing with such a state of things —
that is, to install the electric light in auch a way that the
wire, fittings, etc., may not be considered fixtures, and
could be readily removed without injury to the house
itself.
•Some two years ago we were consulted aa to fitting up a
house in a remote district under tbeae conditions. Our
client had not a suffident interest in the premises to war-
rant an ex[ienditure of X400 or £500 in case the plant
should he considered as a fixture; but if the thing couM
be clone in such a way as to be removable without damage
to the house, we might undertake the work.
We did undertake the work, and succeeded in installing
about 50 lamps in eucb a manner that we obtained the
landlord's opinion to tbe effect that be saw no reason
to regard the fittings, etc., aa fixtures.
The dynamo and engine were, of course, erected in an
out-oflice, and having got our cable through the frame of a
window we divided it, bringing one branch to basement,
and tbe other to bedroom floor. We then carried these
branchea round hall and corridors in casing laid as near
the ceiling as possible, and from these, brought branch
wires through holes in the partitions (usually lath and
plaster) to a ceiling rose attached to tbe interior surface of
the wall. From this rose we trailed a flexible cord along
the ceiling through brass hooks, screwed into the joists, to
the point where the light was required, where the flexible
was simply bent round a hook and held the lamp. From
the same ceiling rose a second flexible cord was hung,
which carried on its free end an ordinary bedside switch.
Thus we dispensed with casing of any kind in all the
apartments, as also the screwing up of switches and ceiling
roses, etc. Nor does tbe appearance of the flexible passing
under the ceiling form any eyesore. We also avoided the
necessity of lifting a single board throughout the premises.
In conclusion, we may mention the installation has given
no trouble since. — Youm, etc.,
J. K. Fahib jlsd Son, MM.I.KE.
9, Westland row, Dublin,
10th April, 1892.
I
i
?1
I
398
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 22, 1892.
THE ELECTRIC MOTOR : A PRACTICAL DESCRIP-
TION OF THE MODERN DYNAMO MACHINE,
MORE PARTICULARLY AS A MOTOR""
BY W. B. SAYERS.
(Concluded from page 378, )
The Dynamo Machine as a Generator. — In writing the
present paper, it seemed to me to be better to describe the
dynamo machine in the first instance as a motor, and
having now attempted to do so, the transition to the con-
sideration of it as a generator is very simple. Imagine the
direction of the current and the polarity of the magnets to
remain as shown in Fig. 3, but that instead of electric
energy being supplied through the mains, F + , F - , the
armature is driven by mechanical power against the forces
indicated by the curved arrows on the periphery ; the
dynamo then becomes a generator. The brushes would
bear upon the commutator in the same position as that for
a motor, but as the direction of rotation is reversed, the
slope of the brushes would have to be reversed also.
Again, suppose the supply of electric energy to be cut
off, and the rotation of the armature maintained by
mechanical power ; the result would be that the pressure,
which in the case of a motor acts against the electric supply
or driving current, would now be available to produce a
supply current, and the dynamo thus become a generator.
In this case the slope of the brushes would remain unaltered,
but they would require moving to the position on the
opposite side of the centre line, indicated by 0. It will
be noted that what I have termed the driving bars now
become the driven bars, and they are, if I may so speak,
still the vital part of the armature — the part to which the
mechanical power has to be transmitted to the shaft, and
the part in which the mechanical power or energy of motion
disappears, and the electric energy appears.
A recent refinement in the construction of armature bars
is that introduced by Messrs. Grompton and Go. in their
larger machines, and consists in making the bars of a twisted
strand of copper wires, which are forced by hydraulic
pressure into a mould of rectangular section, so as to make
a mass almost equal to the aensity of solid copper by
flattening each wire against its neighbour. This construc-
tion has led to considerable improvement in the efficiency,
and at the same time to reduced heating of smooth-core
armatures.
The explanation of this result is as follows : While a
conductor or copper bar is moving in an uniform magnetic
field, as, for instance, in the centre of the air space. Fig. 1,
the electric pressure, or £.M.F., generated in it is the same
between any two right-angle planes in the section of the
bar, that is, there is an uniform tendency for a current to
flow from one end of the conductor to the other. When,
however, one part of the conductor in its sideway motion
reaches into, say, a weaker part of the field — as when the
bar. Fig. 1, should have moved so as to protrude partly
from the air space — a lesser pressure will be generated in
the part in the weaker field — that is, there will be a greater
pressure along one side of the bar than along the other,
with the result that a reverse current will flow in the part
of the bar which is in the weaker field, and an augmented
current in the part which is still in the stronger part of the
field. This current will consume energy which will appear
in the form of heat in the bar. Now the reverse current
must cross from the high-pressure to the low-pressure side
of the bar, and in doing so it will have to pass from one
wire to the other in the case of the compressed wire bar,
and not only will it have to cross from one side to
the other, but on account of the twist of the strand,
this reversed current will be continually changing
from one wire to another, because it will necessarily flow
through the low-pressure side of the bar. Now, although
the electrical resistance through the contact surface between
one wire and its neighbour might not strike one as being
very great, probably the surfaces in actual contact at any
moment are only a fraction of the whole ; and, at any rate,
in reality the resistance is enormous as compared with the
* Paper read before the InBtitution of Engineers and Ship-
baildenin ScotUmd,
resistance through solid metals, and these wasteful currente
are reduced to a minimum, and practically got rid of. I
am indebted to Messrs. Grompton and Go., who have been
good enough to send me these bars to show you tonight.*
I may say, further, that when the bars or driving wiree
are put into slots cut in the iron core of the armature —
a practice which is steadily coming into vogue — ^the
advantage gained from making the bars in this way dis-
appears, on account of the fact that the magnetic field in
a deep slot cut in wrought iron is sensibly constant, and a
bar which is embedded in such a slot, therefore, cannot
have a difference of pressure between its two sides.
I shall conclude my paper by giving the chief charac-
teristic features of : I., constant-current or " series" motors ;
II., constant-pressure or "shunt" motors ; and, in doing
so, I shall touch upon one or two points which it is very
important to know in practice :
Constant-Current or " Series " Motors.
I. A constant-current or series motor will maintain a
constant torque at all speeds, and in consequence will do
work in proportion to the speed at which it is allowed to
run.
II. The amount of backward lead required to be giyen
to the brushes is greater at slow speeds and less at nigh
speeds.
III. A constant-current motor will suffer no harm from
being brought to a standstill from a mechanical caoBe
external to the motor, unless the damage is caused from
the shock of suddenly arrested motion.
IV. A series motor, if properly designed for the pressure,
may be run from constant-pressure supply. Under these
conditions it will neither maintain a constant torque nor a
constant speed with varying load. If, however, the load
is constant, or nearly so, a series motor may often be
advantageously used when the supply is a constant-pressure
one.
Constant-Pressure or " Shunt " Motors.
I. A shunt motor will run at a nearly constant speed for
all loads. It may be compounded so as to run practically
constant.
II. The amount of backward lead required to be given to
the brushes is least with no load, and increases as the load
increases.
III. The speed cannot be varied, unless through a small
range, while maintaining the efficiency of the motor.
lY. In starting a shunt motor from a constant-pressure
supply the connections must be made in the following
order : first, the shunt or magnet wires must be connected to
the mains so as to excite the magnets; second, the armature
circuit or brushes should be connected first through a
resistance coil, which can be cut out of circuit when a
moderate speed has been obtained. If the first rule were
not complied with, and the armature circuit " switched "
on before the magnet circuit, the result would be that
a dangerously heavy current would flow through the
armature winding, while exerting very little torque, due
to the non-existence of the necessary magnetic field in
the air space, and the brushes and commutator might
be burned and damaged. If the second rule were not
complied with, the result would be that a very heavy
current wouldlflow, until the speed and consequent back pres-
sure cheeked it, and the shock to the armature, due to the
abnormally heavy torque which would be suddenly applied,
might be sufficient to destroy it. In practice the starting
switch is designed so as to make the connections in the
order given — a suitable resistance being arranged in con-
nection with the switch. The connection to the supply is
made through short lengths of fusible metal, the cross-
section of which is such that if the current exceeds a pre-
determined value the heat generated will fuse the metal
and disconnect the motor from the mains. These " fuses,"
as they are called, secure a perfect safeguard against damage
to motor in either of the ways mentioned, and they shoiud
always bo used. __^___«_
* The bars shown measured about 0'24in. x 0'28in. in orosi-
section, and were about 13^in. lone in the useful part of their
length. They would be capable m carrying from 60 to 120 or
more amperes, and in a field of 5,000 G.O.S. units (a usual figure)
would exert a force of about 2^1b. with 60 amperes, and 5lb.
120 amperes, and so on.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 22, 1892.
399
ELECTRIC TRAVELLING CRANES.
The convenience of electric motora for cranes and hoists
by reason of their ready manipulation ia bo apparent that
it is not aurpriaing to find their use conatantly extending.
Amongat those who have made this branch of electrical
engineering a speciality, Mr. W. T>. Sandwell, of Victor
Works, HoUovay, has erected several successful electric
crane plants. Some of these we have already described,
and other overhead travelling cranes erected at Bermondsey
have given every satisfaction. These have been working
for 11 months, and have until the present cost nothing for
repairs. The power is supplied by a Sandwell three-unit
dynamo, driven by a Soho engine running at 350 revo-
lutions, the speed of tho dynamo being 1,600 revolutions.
The pressure is 110 volts.
The overhead electric traveller, of which we give illue-
trationa, has been designed for use in a saw-mill at King's
Cross, and will be driven by a Sandwell six-unit dynamo
wound for 200 volts. The loads for which it is required
are all timber, and it will, by a special arrangement, take
ELECTRICAL TESTING INSTRUMENTS.
We recently noticed the catalogue of measuring instru-
ments issued by Messrs. Nalder Bros, and Co., of Eed
Lion-street, E.C. We have now before us a very com-
prehensive catalogue, by the same firm, of electrical testing
instruments. These are more particularly for telegraph
and cable testing, ezpenmental, laboratory, and research
work. Condensers and quadrant electrometers are first
mentioned and illustrated ; and a large variety of the best-
known forms of galvanometer occupy a large portion of the
pamphlet, Detector, astatic, tangent, and other galvano-
meters— a very useful form being a type of D'Araouval-
Deprez dead-beat testing galvanometer, not expensive, and
very suitable for testing laboratories. Reflecting galvano-
meters of various patterns are shown with all appur-
tenances, scales, lamps, keys, and so forth, in convenient
shape. The firm are makers of a number of special
instrumente, amongst which may be mentioned Profs.
Ayrton and Perry's secobmmeter, their variable standard
of self-induction reading direct in millihenrys ; Prof.
SandireU's Electric Travelling Crane.
anything at one hoisting up to a full St. Petersburg
standard direct from a van beneath it, and carry it to
the machine saw. The traveller is interesting from the
fact that three motors are provided, one for each move-
ment After trials of all sorts of gear for manipulating a
crane, it has been found that the extra motors are by far
the cheapest and most efficient, and require also less skilful
driving tnan any other arrangement to be adopted, besides
taking a smaller maximum current to drive. The crane
has been designed for a load of two tons and a span of
30ft It has noisting, travelling, and traversing motions,
and the height from the bottom of girder to the top of
machinery is only 2Sin., making it available in places
where space is valuable.
Two of these travellers have bean working in an ice
factory for the last year, and though always covered with
condensed steam have been found to give every satisfaction.
The electric cranes at the wharf in the City-road, which we
described some time ago, have now had the electric light
added, the plant consisting of six-unit dynamo supplying 70
lights from 8 c.p. to 100 c.p. The power plant at this installa-
tioDi we are told, has not cost a peony for repairs since
first it was put down two yean ago.
Forbes's thermo-galvanometer ; Prof. Thompson's standard
spherometer; Mr. Llewellyn Smith's integraph for
graphical determination of problems in connection nitb
alternating-current machines and other instruments. They
show a large number of college instruments and sets of
apparatus, besides resistance-boxes, cells, keys, and testing
sets.
Ooolnsion of Hydrogen— Some interesting experi-
ments have recently been carried out by MM. Bellati and
Lussarra in connection with the occlusion of hydrogen by
nickel. The experiments were carried out with nickel
wires used as the negative electrodes of a voltameter. After
a current has been passed through the voltameter for 200
hours, one of these wires was found to have absorbed about
100 volumes of hydrogen. The occluded hydrogen was
not given off freely. On the contrary, the wires became
oxidised on exposure to the air. While the process of
occlusion was going on, it was found that the wire elongated
in 11 days by 000036 of its length. The resistance of the
nickel increased as occlusion proceeded, the temperature
coefficient meantime diminiihing.
400
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 22, 1892.
THE WESTON VOLTMETERS AND AMMETERS.
BY U. MA.SCUKE, PH.D.
{CoiUintied from pcuje 382.)
SpeciaX Remarks AhwU the Weston Voltmeters, — The different
types of the Weston voltmeters and millivoltmeters may be
seen from the following table :
Voltmeterfi.
Value of
C/apable
of being
Approxi-
No.
Scale.
one scale
mate
Remarks.
division.
read to:
resistance.
Volts.
Volt.
Volt.
1
0-150
1
1*.
18,000 ohms
[calibrating coil.
2
0-150
1
A
18,000 „
Contact key and
3...|
0-160
1
iV
18,000 h.v.c
Contact key.
0-6
^
t
600 Iv.c.
—
4...|
0-150
1
18,000 h.v.c.
Contact key.
0-15
A
1 oD
1,800 I.V.C.
[calibrating coil.
5
0-300
•2
1
.36,000 ohms
Contact key and
[calibrating coil.
6
0-450
3
i
54,000 „
Contact key and
7
0-600
5
i
72,000 „
[calibrating coil.
Oa a • • •
0-600
5
i
72,000 „
Contact key and
9...|
0-600
4
10
72,000 h.v.c.
—
0-150
1
18,000 l.v.c.
Contact key.
9i {
0-750
5
i
90,000 h.v.c.
—
0-150
1
l\
18,000 l.v.c.
Contact key.
10... I
0-600
4
i
72,000 h.v.c.
0-300
2
\
.36,000 Iv.c.
Contact key.
11.. ..
0-750
5
i
90,000 ohms
12
0-1,500
10
I
180,000 „
■
H.V.C. : High-volt coil. L.v.c. : Low- volt coil.
The instruments Nob. 3, 4, 9, 9^, and 10 are supplied with a
double scale.
High-Rat^e Voltmeters. — Each of these instruments consists
of a No. 1 voltmeter with a separate box containing a certain
resistance. The viUues of the scale divisions must then be
multiplied by a certain number given in the following table
when the instrument and the resistance-box are connected in
series. The scale is divided into 150 divisions, and if used
without the resistance-box the instrument serves simply us a
No. 1 voltmeter.
No.
Range.
Multiplying power
of tne resistance-
box.
Capable of
being read to
Resistance.
13
14
15
16
17
18
0-2,250 V.
0-3,000 „
0-3,760 „
0-4,500 „
0-5,250 „
0 6,000 „
15
20
25
30
35
40
1^ volts.
2
2i „
3
34 »
4 „
270,000 ohms.
360,000 „
450,000 „
540,000 „
630,000 „
720,000 „
AfilUvoltmeters.
No.
Scale.
Value of
one scale
d ivision
Capable
of being
read to :
1
Volt.
0-A
Volt.
Volt.
2
0-T*,
wlvTS
rvoOoo
r
3
TOOOOO
TOOOO
A pprox.
resist-
ance.
Ohm.
5
' Zero in the centre of the
scale ; 100 divisions
right and left.
Zero in the centre ; con-
tact key reducing the
sensibiUty ten times.
J
The instruments are all constructed in the same way, except
the millivoltmeters, in which the movable coil is wound
differently. They differ only in the amount of resistance
inserted in the circuit in series with the coil. These additional
resistance coils are located concentrically with each other under-
neath the scale-plate ; in the instruments intended for the
highest voltage they are placed in a neat separate box accom-
panying the instrument.
For the voltmeters, furnished with a double scale or with a
calibrating coil, two binding screws are provided for the
negative wire.
If connected u> the rear binding screw of a double-scale
instrument, the readings are to be taken on the lower scale.
If, however, connection is made to the front binding screw
additional resistance coils of the apparatus are inserted in
circuit and the upper scale is to be used.
If the largest resistance added to the instrument in a separate
box is used, readings can be taken up to 6,000 volts. On the
other hand, the smallest pressure to be read with the millivolt-
meter is 000001 volt.
The value of the resistance of the voltmeter mearared
exactly to one hundredth of an ohm at 70deg. F. is marked on
every instrument.
Special Remarks AbmU the Weston AmmeUrs. — ^The ammeters
lire identical with the voltmeters as far as the appearance of the
apparatus, the construction of the magnetic field, the movable
coil, etc., are concerned. They differ only in that respect that
a shunt is provided within the instrument through which the
current to oe measured is conducted, and to the ends of which
the wires leading to the movable coil are connected. The con-
struction of the shunt is such that the current passing through
the same can by no means directly affect the magnetic field. It
consists of two copper plates separated by a thin insalatiiig
layer, which are located in the space left vacant by the magnet,
and connected directly to the two binding screws situated on
the right-hand side of the ammeter.
These copper plates are connected with each other by a
certain number of insulated wire coils arranged in multiple arc,
the winding being conducted round the magnet in such a
manner that every two neighbouring wires are passed by the
current in opposite directions.
AmmeterR.
No.
Scale.
Value of one
Capable of
Approximate
scale division.
being read to:
resistaDce.
Amperes.
Amperes.
Amperes.
1
0- 5
^
iriir
0-007
2
0- 15
i\»
rhv
0-0022
3
0- 25
i
^
0-0013
4
0- 50
^
^
0*00066
5
0-100
1
A
0-00033
6
0-150
1
A
0-00022
7
0-200
2
i
0-00016
8
0-250
2
i
0-00013
9
0-300
2
*
0-00011
MUliammetern.
0
1
2
3
4
6
(
{
Milliamperes.
0-150
0-.300
0-600
0-1,000
0-1,500
0-500
0-50
0-500
0-10
Milliamperes.
1
2
5
10
10
5
5
1
ro
Milliamperes.
i
1
1
I
loo
0-22
Oil
0-055
o-a^3
0-022
0-066
0-66
0-19
10-5
The instruments Nos. 5 and 6 have a double scale.
The resistance of the shunt is adjusted in ammeters and
milliammeters so as to produce a drop of potential of about
0*03 volt when the strongest current allowable for the instru-
ment is applied. The resistance ot the movable coil and the
two springs is 0*5 ohm. While the instruments intended for
strong currents read up to 300 amperes, the milliammeters will
measure a current of 0*00001 ampere.
HEDGEHOGS AND SNAKES.
A poetical-looking visitor of serene maimer was observed
making careful enquiries of the electrical engineer in the
Prince's Room, Crystal Palace, at the time of Messrs. Swin-
burne's high-tension experiments. A programme with the
following was afterwards picked up by an attendant :
On Teddington's fair banks a snake is bred,
With curling crest and with advancing head ;
Waving he rolls and makes a sinuous track,
His belly hollow, rounded is his back.
With swift commotions to and fro he reels.
And surges alternate his body feels,
Fire-spitting, venomous, with deadly bite,
He yet, when gently urged, gives glowworm light.
His home an earthen pan, tight covered in.
Vainly disputed with a hedgehog thui.
Who bristling, alert, with stiffened spines,
Doth chase the snake forth from the sad confines.
Angry and hissing, who can stay his darts ?
On every side his fiery power starts.
Lurid, his forked tongues and breath of flame
Dart o'er the surface of a window pane.
And horrid crashings of unruly power.
With writhing arms in lightning torrents shower.
No solid substance can control its force —
At one fell stroke the power of forty-horse.
Death and destruction lurk within its coil,
Till, like the Forty Thieves, 'tis boiled in oil,
The volty power controlled without a hitch.
Like a caged lion — by boldness and a switch.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER. APRIL 22, 1892.
401
EXPERIMENTS WITH ALTERNATE CURRENTS OF
HIGH POTENTIAL AND HIGH FREQUENCY.''
I ouiDot find words to Bxpreaa how deeply I feel the hononr of
■ddrening Bome of the forsmoat thinkara of the present tunea. and
BO many Able scieatific men, eiiKineers, snd alectriciBns, of the
cwinti:7 grettteit Id scientiSc achievements. The mults which I
hkve theboaour to present before such gathering I cannot call m;
own. There are among you not a, few who con lay better cUim
than myMlf on emy feature of merit which this work may contain.
I need not mention m^y namee which are world- known —names
of thoae among you who are recagnised as the leaders in thiBeochant-
ing Boience ; but one, at least, I must mencion —a name which conld
not b« omitted In a demonstration of this kind. It is a name asso-
ciated with tha most beautiful invention ever made : it is Croobee !
When 1 was at college, a good time ago, I read, in a translation
(for then I was not familiar with yoar magnificent language), the
description of his experiments on radiant matter. I tead it only
once in my life — that time— yet every detail' about that charming
work I can remember this day. Few are the books, let me say,
which can make such an impression upon the mind of a student.
But if on the present occasion I mention this name, as one of
many your Institution can boast of, it is because I. have more
than one reason to do so. For what I have to tell you and to
show yon this evening concerns in a large measure that same
vague world which Prof. Crookes has so ably explored ; and,
more than this, when I trace back the mental process which led
me to these advances— which even by mysalf cannot be considered
trtSing, since they ore bo appreciated by you— I believe that
their real origin, that which stArted me to work in this direction,
and brought me to them after a long period of constant thought,
was that faecioatiog little book which I read many years ago.
And now that 1 have made a feeble effort to expreee my homage
and acknowledge my indebtedness to him and othen among you,
I will make a second effort, which I hope you will not nnd so
feeble as the Brat, to entertain you. Give me leave to introduce
the subject in a few words. A short time ago T had the honour to
bring before our American Institute of Electrical Engineers some
results then arrived at hy me in a novel line of work. I need not
assure you that the many evidences wbich I have received that
English scientific men and engineers were interested in this work,
have been for me a great reward and encouragement. I will not
dwell npon the experiments already described, except with the
of completing, or mere clearly expressing, some ' '
advanced by me be^re, and also with the view of rendering the
study here presented self-contained, and my remarks on the
subject of this evening^ lecture consistent. This investigation,
then, it goes without saying, deals with alternating currents, and,
to be more precise, with alternating currents of hi^ potential and
high frequency. Just in how much a very high frequency is
essential for the production of the results presentwi, is a question
which, evsn with my present experience, would embarrass me to
answer. Some of the experiments may be performed with low
frequencies, hut very high frequencies are desirable, not only on
account of the many e&cta securud by their use, but also as a
convenient means of obtaining, in the induction apparatus
employed, the high potentials which, in their tarn, are necessary
to the demonstration of most of the experiments here con-
templated.
Of the various branches of electrical investigation, perhaps the
most inUrestiog and immediately the most promising is that
dealing with alternating currents. The progress in this branch
of applied science has been so great in recent years that it justifies
the most sanguine hopes. Hardly have we become familiar with
one fact when novel experiences are made, and new avenues of
research are opened. Even at this hour possihiUtles not dreamt
of before are, by the use of these currents, partly realised. As in
Nature all is ebb and tide, all is wave motion, so it seems that in
all branches of industry alternating currenta— electric wave
motion— will have the sway. One reason, perhaps, why this
branch of science is being po rapidly developed is to he found in
the interest which is attocbed to its experimental study. We
wind a simple ring of iron with coils ; we eetablish the connec-
tions to the generator, and with wonder and delight we note the
effects of strange forces which we brine into play, which allow us
to transform, to transmit and direct energy at will. We arrange
the circuits properly, and we see the mass of iron and wires behave
at though it were endowed with life, spinning a heavy armature,
through invisible connections, with great speed and power— with
the energy possibly conveyed from a great distance. We obsene
how the energy of an alternating current traversing the wire mani-
fests itself- not so much in the wire as in the surrounding space-
in the most surprising manner, taking the forms of heat, li^ht,
mechanical energy, and, most surprising of all, even chemical
affinity. All these observations fascinate us, and fill us with an in-
tensedesiretoknow moreabout the natureof these phenomena. Each
day we go to our work In thehopeof discovering- in the hope that
someone, no matter who, may find a solution otone of the pending
great problems- and each succeeding day we return to our task
with renewed ardour ; and even if weareunsucceBsful.onr work has
not been in vain, for in these strivings, in these efForta, we have
found hours of untold pleasure, and we have directed
to the benefit of mankind^
J delivered before the Institution of Electrical
Engineers at the Royal Institution, on Wednesday evening,
February 3, 1B&2. "- - "-- ' ' ' " '-■•■-— -•
ElectriGslJEogineera.
We may take — at random, if you chooee, any of the many experi-
ments w|uch may be performed with alternating currents ; a few of
which only, aad by no means the most striking, form the subject
of this evening's demonstration ; thoy are all equally interesting,
equally in
equally inciting te thought. Here is a simple glass tube f:
" - - '- has been partially exhausted. I take hold of it ; I bring
lie glass tuio from which
8 hold of it i I bring my
body in contact with a wire conveying alUrooting currents of hign
"■t
I the Jvariiat of the Institution of
potential, and the tube in my band is brilliantly lighted,
whatever position I may put it, wherever I may move It in space,
as far as lean reach, its soft, pleasing light persists with undiminished
brightness. Here is an exhaustwl Duth suspended from a single
wire. Standing on an insulated support, I grasp it, and a platinum
button mounted in it is brought to v\v'\S incandescence. Here,
sttached to a leading wire, is another bulb, which, as I touch its
metallic socket, is filled with magnificent colours of phosphorescent
light. Here still another, which by my fingers' touch caste a
shadow— the Crookes shadow of the stem inside of it. Here,
again, insulated as I stand on this platform, I bring my body in
contact with one of the terminals of the secondary of this induction
coil — with the end of a wire many miles along — and you see stream*
of light break forth from its distant end, which is set in violent
vibration. Hece, once more, I attach these two plates of wire
fauze to the terminals of the coil, I set them a distance apart, and
set the coil to work. You may see a small spark pass between
the plates. I insert a thick pfate of one of the best dielectricB
between them, and instead of rendering altogether impossible,
as we are used to ox poet, I aid the passage of the discharge, which,
as I insert the plate, merely changes in appearance and assume!
the form of luminous streams. Is there, I ask, can there be. a
more interesting study than that of alternating current* !
In all these investigations, ladies and gentlemen, in all theae
experimente, which are so very, very interesting, for many year*
past — ever since the greatest experimenter who lectured in tbie
hall discovered its principle— we have had a steady oompanion,
an appliance familiar to everyone, a plaything once, a thing of
momentous importenee now — the induction coil. There is no
dearer appliance to the electrician. From the ablest amoog yon,
I dare say, down te the inexperienced student, to your lecturer,
we all have passed many delightfhl hours in experimenting wiUi
the induction coil. We have watehed ite play, and thought and
pondered over the beautiful phenomena which it discloeed to our
ravished eyes. So well known is this apparatos, so familiar are
these phenomena to everyone, that my courage nearly fails me
when I think that 1 have ventured to address bo able an audience,
that I have hazarded to entertein you with that same old subject.
Here in reality is the same apparatus, and here ore the same
phenomena, only the apparatus is operated somewhat differently,
the phenomena ore presented in a different aspect. Some of t£a
results we find as expected, others surprise us, but all captivate
our attention, for m scientific investigation each novel result
achieved may be the centre of a new departure, each novel fact
learned may lead to important devslopmente. Usually in openting
an induction coil we have set up a vibration of moderate fre-
quency in the primary, either by means of an interruptor or
break, or by the use of an alternator. Earlier English investi-
gators, te mention only Spottiswoode and J. E. H, Gordon, have
used a rapid break in connection with the coil. Our knowledge
and experience of to-day enables us to see clearly why these coils,
under the conditions of the tests, did not disclose any remarkable
phenomena, and why able experimenters failed to pen^ve many
of the curious efiecte which have since been observed. In the
experiments such as performed this evening, we operate the coil
either from a specially- constructed attemauir capable of giving
many thousands of reversals of current per second, or, by disrup-
tively discharging a condenser through the primary, we set up &
~" " the secondary circuit of a frequency of many hundred
thousands
of these me
It is impossible to purs
without finally making son
some useful fact. That thi
of this lecture the many cu
we observe afford
B per second, if v
a field ai
itigation In any novel line
le interesting observation or learning
9 statement is applicable to the subjeA
riouB and unexpected phenomena which
ing proof. By way of illustration take,
. the most obvious phenomena, those of the dischai^
uf the induction coil. Hera isa coil which isoperated by currente
vibrating with extreme rapidity, obtained by disruptively die-
charging a Leyden jar, It would not surprise a student were the
lecturer to say that the secondary of this coil consiste of a small
length of comparatively stout wire i it would not surprise blm
were the lecturer to state that, in spite of this, the coil Is capable
of giving any potential which the beet insulation of the turns Is
able to withstand ; but although he may be prepared, and even
indifferent as to the anticipated result, yet the aspect of the
dischar^ of the coil will surprise and interest him. Everyone
is familiar with the discbarge of an ordinary coil ; it need not be
reproduced here- But, by way of contrast, here is a form of
discharge of a coil the primary current of which is vibrating
several hundred thousand times per second. The diacbai^
of an orelinary coil appears as a simple line or band of light.
The discharge of this coil appears in the form of powerfnl
brushes and luminous streams issuing from all points of tbe
two straight wires attached to tbe torminals of the seoondaiy.
Now compare this phenomenon which you have just witnened
with the dischan^e ol a Holtz or Wimshurst machine— that other
interesting appliance so dear to the experimenter. What a
diSerenoe there ia between both tbeee phenomena ! And yet, had
I made tbe neoeMuy amngemetite — which could have been mode
easily, were it not Oat tb« wonld interfere with other experi
mente. I ooold Iwra pMdwid wtth Uila ooll sparks whloh, had I
the ooU hW- *-— -*-^-"-* --■ -^ kMbe upoMd, evra
402
THE ELECTKICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 22. 1892.
, if not
... ,__ „ r friction
machine. Thin may be done in many ways — for instance, by
operating the induction coil which charges the condenser from an
alternating -current machine of very low frequency, and preferably
adjurting the discharge circuit, ao that there are no oscillations set
up in it. We then obtain in the aecondary circuit, if the knobs
are of the required size and properly sot, a more or less rapid auc-
eeuion of sparks of great intensity and small quantify, which
poBMBB the same brilTiancy, and are accompanied by the same
sharp crackling sound as those obtained from a friction or inSuence
machine.
Another way is to pass through two primary circuits, having a
common secondary, two currents of a slightly different period,
which produce in the secondary circuit sparks occurring at com-
paratively long intervals. But, even with the means at hand this
evening, I may succeed in imitating the spark of a Hoi tz machine.
For this purpose I establish between the torminala of the coil which
charges the coadenser a long unsteady arc, which is periodically
interrupted by the upward current of air produced by it. To
increase the current of air I place on each side of the arc,
and close to it, a large plate of mica. The condenser charged
from this coil discharges into the primary circuit of a second
coil through a small air gap, which is necessary to produce
a sudden rush of current through the primary. The scheme
the present experiment is indicated in
the condensers, or jars, CC The tenninala of the secondary are
connected to the inside coatings of the jars, the outer coatings
being connected to the ends of the primary, pp, of a second
induction coil. This primary, pp, has a smaU air gap. ab. The
■econdary, a, of this coil is provided with Lnobs, or spheres, K K,
of the proper size, and set at a distance suitable for the experi-
ment. A long arc is established between the terminals, A B, of
the 6rat induction coil. M M are the mica plates. Each time the
arc is broken between A and B the jars are quickly charged and
discharged through the primary, /ijj, producing a snapping spark
between the knobs, K K. Upon the arc forming between A and B
the potential falls, and the jars cannot be charged to such high
potential as to break through the air gap, a b, until the arc is
again broken by the draught. In this manner sudden impulses
at long intervals are produced in the primary, p p, which in the
secondary, s, give a corresponding number of impulses of great
intensity. If the secondary knobs, or spheres, K K, are o? the
proper size, the sparks show much reeemblance to those of e,
Holtz machine.
Bat these two eETects, which to the eye appear so very different,
are only two of the many discharge phenomena. We only need to
change the conditions ot the test, and again we make other obeer-
vaUone of interest. When, instead of operating the induction coil
u in the two last experiments, we operate it from a high. frequency
aJtemator, as in the next eiperiment, a systematic study of the
pheoomena is rendered much more easy. In such case, in varying
the strength and frequency of the onrreDta through the piimuy,
we may observe five distinct forms of disohargs, which I have
described in my former paper on this subject before the American
Institute of Electrical Engineers, May 20, ISQl.
It would take too much time, and it would lead us too far from
the subject presented this evening, to reproduce all these forma,
but it seems to me desirable to show you one of them. It i« a
brush discharge, which is interesting in more than one respect.
Viewed from a near position, it resembles much a jet ol gas
escaping undor great pressure. We know that the phenomenon
is due to the agitation of the molecules near the terminal, and we
anticipate that some heat muat be developed by the impact of the
molecules gainst the terminal or against each other. Indeed, we
find that the brush is hot, and only a little thought leads us to
the conclusion that, could we but reach sufficiently high frequen-
cies, we could produce a brush which would give intense light and
heat, and which would resemblein every ptrticuUr an ordinar; flame.
vo, perhaps, that both [
might n*t bedae to the «
the impact of the molecules, or atoms, of air or of something else
besides, and as we can augment the energy simplv by raising the
potential, we might, even with frequencies obtained from a dynamo
machine, intensify the action to such a decree as to bring the
terminal to melting heat. But with such low frequencies we
would have to deaTalwE^s with something of the BHnre of an
electric current. If I approach a conducting object to tlte bm^
a thinny little spark paasee, yet even with the freqoBnolei naed
this evening the tencfenoy to spark is not very grakt. So, for
instance, if I hold a metallic sphere at some dlstanoe abdTC the
terminal, you may see the whole space between the tarminil and
Fi<i. 2.— Imitating the Spark of a Holtz Machine.
sphere illuminated by the streams without the spark passing ; and
with the much higher frequencies obtainable by the dlsniptive
discharge of a condenser, were it not for the sudden [mpulaes,
which are comparatively few in number, sparking would not
occur even at very small distances. However, with incomparably
higher frequencies, which we may yet find means to produce
efficiently, and provided that electric impulses of such high
frequencies could be transmitted through a conductor, the elec-
trical characteristics of the brush discbarge would completelv
vanish — no spark would pass, no shock would ne felt — yet we would
still have to deal with an electric phenomenon, but in the broad,
modern interpretation of the word. In my first paper befora
referred to, I have pointed out the curious properties of the brush,
and described the nest manner of producing it, but I have thought
it worth while to endeavour to express myself more clearly in
regard to this phenomenon, because of its absorbing interost.
When a coil is operated with currents of very high ireonency,
beautiful brush effects may be produced, even if the coil be of
comparatively small dimensions. The experimenter may vary
them in many ways, and, if it were nothing else, they afford a
pleasing sight. What adds to their interest is that they may be
produced with one single terminal as well as with two ; in fact,
often better with one than with two.
But of all the discharge phenomena observed, the most pleasiog
to the eye, and the most instructive, are those obeervea with a
coil which is operated by means of the disruptive discharge of »
condenser. The power of the brushes, the t^nndance of the
sparks, when the conditions are patinitly adjusted, is often
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 22, 1892.
403
„. Wilb wen a. very bidbII coil, if it be so well inaulated
IS to ftand a differenco of potontial of Mveral thoiuund voltis per
cum, the spartu may be so abimdanl that the whole coil may
appear a complete masB of fire. Curioosly enough, the sparks,
when the MrmioalB of the coil are set at a considerBible dist&nce,
seem to dart in every poaaible direction, as though the tenninals
were perfectly independent of each other. As Uie sparks would
soon destToy the insulation, it is necessary to prevent them. This
is beat done by immersing the coit in a good liquid insulator, such
as boiled'Ont oil. Immersion in a liquid may b« considered almost
an absolute neoeedty for the continaed and saoceaefnl working of
BuohacoU.
It ie, of coarse, out of question, in an experimental lecture, with
only a few mlnntee at disposal for the performaoce of each
experiment, to show these discharge phenomena to advantage, as
to produce each phenomenon at ita best a very careful adjustment
is rei^nited. But even if imperfectly produced, as they are likely to
be this even ing, they are sum ciently striking to interest an intelligent
audience. Beforeshowingsomeof these curious effects I must, for the
sake of completeness, give a short description of the coil and other
appAmtns used in the experiments with the disruptive discharge
this evening. It is contained in a box, B, Fig. .1, of thick boards
Fin. .?,— Disruptive Discharge Coil.
of hard wood, covered on the outside with zinc sheet, Z, which is
carefully soldered all round. It might be advisable, in a strictly
— ' — '-"- 'iveetigation, when accuracy is of groat iiniiortance, to
b thes
J of
suflicieDt importance to be dwelt upon. The coil should
placed symmetrically to the metal cover, and the space between
should, of course, not ho too small — certainly not lees than, say,
five centimetres, but much more if possible i especially the two sides
of the zinc box, which are at right angles to the axis of the coil,
should be suSiciently remote from the latter, as otherwise they
might impair its action and be a source of loss. The coil consists
of two spools of hard rubber, K R, held apart at a distance of
10 centimetres by bolu, c, and nuts, ii, likewise of hard rubber.
Each spool comprises a tube, T, of approximately eight centimetres
inside oiameMr and three milljmotres thick, upon which are screwed
two flanges, F F, 24 centimetres square, the space between the
flanges being about three centimetres. The secondary, S S, of tho
beet guttapercha- covered wire, has 28 layers, ID turns in each,
giving for each half a total of '2tiO bums. The two halves are
wound oppositely and connected in series, the connection
between both being made over the primary. This dlBposition,
besides being convenient, has the advantage that when the
coil is well balanced— that is, when both of iu terminals. T| Ti,
are connected to bodies or devices of equal capacity — there is
not much danger of breaking through to the primary, and tho
insulation betweeu the primary ana the secondary need not be
thick. In using the coil it is advisable to attach to both
terminalB dovicee of nearly etjual capacity, as, when the capacity
of the terminals Is not equal, sparks will be apt to pass to the
Eimary. To avoid this, too middle point of the secondary may
connected to the primary, but this is not always practicable.
The primary, P P, is wound in two parts, and oppositely, upon
a wooden spool, W, and the four ends are led out of the oil
through hard rubber tubes, ( (. The ends of the secondary, Ti Ti,
are aUo led out of the oil through rubber tubes, I, fj, of great
thickness. The primary and secondary layers are insulated by
cotton cloth, the thickness of the insulation, of course, bearing
some proportion to the diSbrence of potential between the turns of
the different layers. Each half of the primary has four layers,
21 turns in each, this giving a total of 9tj turns. When both the
part* are Donnected m series, this givesaratio of conversion of
about 1 : 27, and with the primaries in multiple, 1 : 5'4 ; but in
operating with very rapid ly-alternating currentw this ratio does
not convey even an approximate idea of the ratio of the E.M.F.'s
in the primary and eecondary circuits. The coil is held in position
in the oil on wooden supports, there being about five centimetres
thickness of oil all around. Where the oil is not specially needed,
the space is filled with pieces of wood, and for this puriioee princi-
pally the wooden box, B, surrounding the whole is used. The con-
struction here shown is, of course, not the best on general principles,
but I believe it is a good and convenient one far the production of
effects in which an excessive potential and a very small current is
needed. In connection with tne coil, I use either the ordinary form
of discharger or a modified form. In the former 1 have introduced
two changes which secure some advantages, and which are obvious.
If they are mentioned, it is only in t^e ho|)e that some experi-
menter may find them of use. One of the changes is that the
adjustable knobs, A and B (Fig. 4), of the discharger are held in
jaws, J J, of brass by spring pressure, this allowing to turn them
successively in ditferent positions and so do away with the tedious
process of fre<iuent polishing up. The other change consists in
the employment of a strong electromagnet, N S, which is placed
with its axis at right angles U> the line joining the knobs A and B,
and produces a strong magnetic field between them. The pol&-
jiieCBs of the magnet are movable, and properly formed so as to
protrude between the brass knobs, in order to make the field as
intense as possible ; but to prevent the discharge from jumping to
the magnet, the pole-piecee are protected by a layer of mica,M H,
of Butfictent thickness ; «iSi and «g&, are screws for fastening the
wires. On each side one (rf the screws is for large and the other
for small wires. LL are screws for fixmg in position the rods,
R U, which support the knobs, In another arrangement with the
Fio. 4, — ^Arrangement of Improved Discharger bnd Magnet.
vided with polished brass caps.
The employment of an intense magnetic field is of advantage
principally when the induction coil or transformer which charges
tho condenser is operated by currents of very low frequency. In
such a case the number of the fundamental discharges between
the knobs may be so small as to render the currents produced in
the secondary unsuitable for many experiments. The intense
magnetic field then serves to blow out the arc between the knobs
as soon as it is formed, and the fundamental discharges occur in
quicker succession. Instead of the magnet, a draught or blast of
air may be employed with some advantage. In this case the arc
is preferably established between the knobs, A B, in Tig 2 (the
knobs a b being generally joined, or entirely done away with), as
in this disposition the arc is long and unsteady, and is easily
affected by the draught. ^Vhen a magnet is employed to break
the arc, it is better to choose tho connection indicaUid schematically
in Fig. 5, as in this case the currents forming the arc are much
more powerful, and the magnetic field exercises a greater Influence.
The use of the magnet permits, however, of the arc bei^ replaced
by a vacuum tut«, but I have encountered great difficultie* in
working with an exhausted tube.
The other form of discharger used in these and similar experi-
ments is indicated in Figs. 6 and 7. It consists of a number of
brass pieces, c c (Fig. Q), each of which comprises a spherical
middle portion, m, with an extensioni «, below— which is merely
nsed to fast«n the piece in a lathe when polishing up the dli-
(^larging surface — and a column above, which consiste of a
knurled Qange, / surmount«d by a tlu^kded stem, I, carrying a
nut, n, by means of which a wire is fastened to the oolamn. ln>
404
tSE KLECTRICAL ENGlMiER, Al>RlL S2, 1892.
flwige, /, canvanienUy Mrvee for holding tha brau piece when
futonlng the wire, and ftlao for tDming it in any positiioa when it
becomeB oeoeewrf to preaeot » freth dimhiirgitig auHace. Two
stout atripi of haid rubber, R R, with pituied grooves, g g (Fig. 7),
to fit the middle portioo of the pieces, c c, serve to clamp the latter
•ad hold them firmly iu poeition by meana of two bolw, C C (of
which only one ia shown), paseing throngh the ends of the stripe.
In the use of this kind of discharger I have found three principal
advantagee over the ordinary form. Firstly, the dielectric
strength of a given total width of air space is greater when a great
many small air gaps are used instead of one, which permits of
working with a smaller length of air gap, and tliat means smaller
loss and less deterioration of the roetal ; secondly, by reason of
splitting the arc up into smaller arcs, the polished surfacee are
made to last moch longer ; and thirdly, the apparatus affords
BOme gauge in the experiments. I usually act the pieces, by
putting between them sheets of uniform thickness, at a certain
very small distance which is known from the experiments of Sir
William Thomaou to require a certain E.M.F. to be bridged by
the spark. It should, of course, be remembered that the sparking
diibance is much diminished as the frequency is increased. By
taking any number of spaces the experimeoter hat a rough idea of
Fiti. 6.
the E.M.F., and he finds it also easier to repeat an experiment, as
be btM not the trouble of setting the knobs again and again. With
this kind of discharger I have been able to maintain an oscillating
motioD without any spark being visible with the naked eye
between the knobs, and they vroald not show a veiy appreciable
rise in temperature. This form of discharger also lends itself to
many arroogementa of condensers and circnlta which are often
Tory oonvenieat and time-saving. I have used it preferably in a
dispiaitioD similar to that indioated in Fig. 2, when the currenta
(onoing the arc are small.
I may here mention that I have also used dischaixerB i^ith
single or multiple air gaps, in which the discharge surfaces were
rotated with great speed. No particular advantage was, however,
mined bv this method, except in cases where the currents from
the condenser were large and the keeping cool of the surfaces
waa necessary, and in cases when, tbe discharge not being
oscillating of Ite^, the arc as soon as established was broken by
the air current, thus starting the vibration at intervals in rapid
succession. I have also used mechanical interrupters in many
ways. To avoid the difSculties with frictional contacts, the
preferred plan adopted was to establish the arc and rotate through
It at great speed a rim of mica provided with many holes, and
fastened to a steel plate. It is understood, of course, that the
employment of a magnet, air current, or other interrupter, pro-
duoee do effect wortb noticing, unless the self-induction, capacity,
and rMLStanoe are so related Uiat there are oscillations set up upon
each interruption.
7. — Dischai^er with Multiple Gape.
of these discharge phenomena. I have stretched across tbe
two ordinary cotten-covered wires, each about seven metres in tength.
They are supported on insulating cords at a distance of about
30 oentimetres. I attach now to each of the terminals of tbe coil
one of the wires, and set the coil in action. Upon turning the
lights off in the room you seethe wires stronsly ilinminated hy the
streams issuing abundantly from their whole surface in spite of
the cotton covering, which may even be very thick. When the
axperimenC is performed under good conditions, tbe light from the
wirea is sufficiently intense to allow distinguishing the objects in
a nmm. To prodnce the beet result it is, of course, necessary to
adiut carefully tbe capacity of the jarx,thearc between the knohs,
and the length of the wires. My experience is that calculation
of the length of the wires loads in snch case te no result what-
ever. Tbe experimenter will do beet to take the wires at tbe
•tart VMjr long, and then adjust by cutting off first long piecee.
and then smaller and smaller ones aa he ^1
length. A convenient way is to nee an oil oono .
capacity, consistinc of two small adjustable
connection with thii and similar eiperimeDts
take wires rather short, and set at the beginning I
nlates at maximum diatanoe, If the streams iro
by approach of tbe plates, the Imgth of
In ■
about right ; if they diminiBh, the wires are too lon^ for bl
frequency and potential. When a condenser is uaed in oonnsu-
tion witb experimente with such a coil, it should be an oil
condenser by all means, ss in using an air condenser considerable
energy might be wasted. The wires leading to the plates in tbe
oil snould be very thin, heavily coated with aome insulating
Fid. 9.— Wires Rendered Intensely Luminous.
compound, and provided witb a conducting covering — this
preferably extending under tbesurface of the oil. Tbe conducting
cover should not be too near the terminals, or ends, of tbe wire, aa
a spark would be apt to jump from the wire te it, Tbe conducting
coating isused todiminishtheoir los8ee,invirtusof its action as an
electrostatic screen. As to the size of the vessel containing the oil,
and the size of the plates, the experimenter gains at once an idea
from a rough trial. The size of the plates in oil is, however,
calculable, as the dielectric losses ai e very small. In tbe praoedii^t
■ ■ relation the
experiment i
ia of considerable ii
o know what n
effecte produced abould be proportionate, under otherwise equal om-
ditiona of test, to the product of freqneooyand square of potential,
but tbe experimental verification of tbe law, whatever it may be,
would be exceedingly difficult. One thing is cert«in, at any rate,
and that is, that ui aagmenting tbe potential and frequency ws
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 22, 1892.
40S
be simply lUing burners or llamei
lal procesa, r
ir ateaetgy, a
luld then
>uld be no
I merely s
I these lines.
\, in which there
, D of material, bi
transfer of energy, and which would in all probability
liehtand leee beat thaa ordinar;^ SacneB. The luminous iniensicy
of the Btr«am is, of course, considerably increased when they ate
focnaed upon a small surface. Thiainay be shown by the followini;
experiment. I attach to one of the tormiDale of tlie coil a wire,
•a (Fig. 8), bent in a cirele of about ,10 centimetres in diameter,
and to the other terminal I fasten a small brass sphere. • : the
surface of the wire beine preferably ec|uaJ to the surface of the
sphera, «nd the centre ol the latter being in a line at right angles
t« the plane of the wire circle and passing through ita centre.
When the discharge is established under proper conditions, a
lominoDR hollow oono is formed, and in the dark one half of the
brass sphere i» strongly illuminated, as shown in the cut. By
some ftiiiflce or other it is easy to concentrate the streams upoQ
small onrfkOM uid to produce very stronjf light effects. Two thin
wiraa m»7 thus be rendered intensely leminous. In order to
inteniily the atraftais the wires should be very thin and short ; but
as Id tlu obm t^eir capacity would be generally too small for the
coil, at ItMt far such a one as the present, it ts necessary to augment
the oaptwity totbe required value, while, at the same time, the surface
of the wires remains very smnll. This may be done in many ways.
Bere, for instance, I have two plates, R R, of hard rubber. Fig. 9,
upon which I have glued two very thin wires, 'f w, so as to form a
name. The wires may be bare or covered with the best insula-
tion— it is immaterial for the success of the oiperimenb. Well,
insulated wires, if anything, are preletable. On the bock of each
^at«, indicated by the shaded portion, is a tinfoil coating, ( t.
The plateearo placed in lineat a aufficieat disiance to prevent a
BpoTK pMsing from one to the other wire. The two tinfoil coatings
I have joined by a oonductor, C, and the two wires 1 presently
connect to the terminals of the coll. It is now easy, by varying
the strength and frequency of the currents through the primary,
to lind a point at which the capacity of the system is beet suited
to the conditions, and the wires become so strongly luminous that
when the lisht in the room is turned off, the name funned by them
appears in brilliant letters. It is perhaps preferable to perform
this eiperimeat with a coil operated from an alternator of high
frequency, as then, owing to the harmonic rise and fall, the
streams are very uniform, tliough they are less abundant than
when produced with sach a coil as the preseat. This experiment,
bowev«r, may be performed with low frequencies, but much lees
satisfactorily.
(Tobeeonlinual.)
PHTSICAL SOCIETY. -AprU 8, 1892.
Dr. J. H. GLAtisTONE, F.R.8., past -president, in the chair.
Mr. C. T. Mitchell was elected a member of the society.
■r. Walter Bally. H.A., read a paper " On tlie Cooatritotlon
o( a Colour Hap." By the term "colour map" the author meant
a diagram, each point of which defines by its position some par-
ticuhir colour. Captain Abney had shown that all colours eicept
the purple could be formed by adding white light to some spectrum
colour, whilst all except the greens could be made to produce
white by the addition of some spectrum colour. There were,
therefore, two ways in which colours, other than greens and purples,
could be indicated. In one of these, tlie ordiuate of a iwint might
represent the spectrum colour by its wave-length and tnoabsciHsa.
measured to the right of a vertical spectrum line, the amount of
white light to be added to the spectrum colour to produce the
colour represented by the point. In the other, the abscissa of a
point situated on the left of the spectrum line repnwentB
the quantity of white light produced by the addition of the
spectrum colour bo the colour indicatod by the point. Ite-
garding the spectrum colours as formed by mixing three primary
coloura (red, Kreen, and violet) in varying proitortious, three
curves were ctawn to the left of the 8)iectrum line, whose
abscissa represented respectively the proportions of the three
primary colours present in the oorres^wnding spectrum
colour. Horizontal distances from any point to these curves show
the proportions in which the primary colours are to be mixed to
E reduce the particular colour defined by that point. For points
etween the curves, the horiroatal distances are not measured all
ia one direction, and therefore indicate abnormal or imaginary
colours. The principle of the map was further illustrated by a sort of
colour staff, consisting of three horizontal lines representing the
three primary colour sensations (see Fig.) of such luminoeitiee that
&
ft.itf-rr I
equal lengths of the three lines indicate while light- If points
R, G, V, be taken in these lines, then a crose-line, A, will
cutoff lengths A R, AG, A V. whose mixture will produce a certain
colour, n now A be moved parallel to itself towards the right,
the colour will change by the addition of white light ; moving A
to the left means asubtroetioo of while light. When B, G, end V are
properly chosen, a certain position. S, of the cross- lino corresjiondB
to a spectrum colour- The whole of the series of colours which
f ji> ha jihtaJfiad hy adding whito light to that spect-iim colour cad
then L>e represented by sliding A towards the right. Positions
S' and A' give colours complementary to 3 and A. The distin-
guishing features of such a series of colours are the dill'eronce«
R-GandfJ — V, and the author calls the ratio -- the "colour
Passing up the spectrum frem red to violet, the index,
between yellow and bfuei it then passes through infinity and
becomes positive, and decreases to zero. The subject of deter'
mining the indexes of colours resulting from the mixture in variouii
proportions of two other colours whose indexes were known was
considered, and diagrams showing the various curves exhibited. Ex-
perimental methods of determinmg the proportions of the primarv
colour sensations constituting the s[>ectrum tints wore described,
A Visitor enquired how the author's system provided for the
class of colours outside the red and violot. He also desired a
definition of "white light." He himself had never boon able to
produce pure white by roiitnre of colours, for a reddish violot
generally resulted. On the other hand, he found it possible to
match any other colour by mixture. Prof. Carey Foatar thought
Helmhokz was the (irst to pro[)ound the laws which the author
hod attributed to Captain Abney. Ho wished to know how the
amounts of colour sensation were supposed to be measured,
White light, ho considered, ought to be defined as light in which a
normal eye, not fatigued, could perceive no preponderance of any
colour- Mr. Blakealey said that if white light was a mixture,
and only two unknowns were necessary, then any colour could bit
produced by the mixture of two other colours. Dr. gniDpniir
pointed out that white light was by no means a constant colour,
but depended greatly on the source. He thought the author's
map of n more absolute nature than that proposed by Maxwell:
Dr. HolEsrt enquired whether the intensities of each spectrum
colour had been considered equal or otherwise taken into account,
and also whether the results arrived at would be true for intensi-
ties other than those shown. Mr. Bally, in reply, said that
Captain Abney had found the light from the crater in the positive
carbon oF an electric are to be the most constant white, and in his
method of GX|)erimenting errors due to variations of the source
cancel. The quantity of any s|)ectrum colour was defined by the
breadth of the band used, tlie breadth being measured on the
scale of wave- length!.
A paper on " A Knamoulo Table for Chaagtss tram Klaatro>
atatlo to Praotioal and O.O.S. Klectromagnetlo Dalta" was read
b y Kr. W. Qleed, M.A In the table which is given below the
abbreviations "slat." and '" mag." are U90.( to denote the electro-
Blalic and electromagnetic units reepectively, and v stands for
3 y 10'".
Unite of Cs[ift- Resist- Poten- Cur- Quan-
Powors of lOfor practical city, ance, tial, rent. tity,
and magnetic units... 9 B 8 I 1
Smallunit Stat. Mag, Mm;. Slat. Stat.
Practical unit Farad Ohm Volt Ampere Coulomb
Large unit ^"^^ ^^'^ Stat, Mag, Mag.
Factor for stat. and mag. t- i'' v v v
To form the table, the numbers 9, S, 1, in the middle of the second
lino give the value of "•;." The end numtiers are duplicated,
giving 9, 0, 8, 1, I. Betow them, in the fourth line, come the
names of the practical units, the initials forming the word
"fovac," Remembering that the electromagnetic units of resist-
ance and potential were too aiaall for practical use, one places
mag, above both ohm and volt. Ohm's law and definitions then
show that the practical unite of capacity current and quantity
must be less than the electromagnetic unit, hence mag. must be
written betow farad, ampere, and coulomb. Since the practical
units are intermediate in magnitude between stab, and mae., the
vacant spaces are then filled in by stab. The v'e in the bottom
line are added from memory. Several examples showing the nse
of the table are worked out in the paper accompanying tho table.
A paper on " The I^w et Oelonr Id Selation t« Ckemleal Coa-
■UCatton," by WUUam Akroyd, ivas read by Mr. Blakesley.
The author has observed that in cases of compounds having a
radical, R, and a variable radical, R', the effect of an
ease in the molecular weight of R' is to make the colour of the
ipound tend towards the red end of the colour scale, Eicep-
s, are, however, noted.
COMPANIES' REPORTS.
Directors : Sir Richard J. Meade, K-C.S.I., chairman ; Major
Charles Jones, vice-chairman ; Edward J, Carson, Esq. ; William
Elmore, liiBq, : George Holmes, Es<]. ; Sir James Mackenzie, Bart.,
managing director. General mani^er: M. Eugene Secr^tan.
First annual report and statement of accounte l« be submitted
to a general meeting of shareliolders to be held at Winchester
House on Friday, 22nd inst,, at 1'2 noon,
Vour Directors ticg to submit the annexed statement of accounts
for the period from the date of the Company's formation on the
6th September, IHOO, up to the 31st December, 1891. These
accounts deal only with capital expenditure, as no trading wa«
cnrried on during the period under report. They show the ouUaj
that has been incurred on the Company's factory at IMvaa. in
eluding the purchase of raw niaterial, ooppor. »
40ft
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEEtl, At>RlL 2% 18&S.
the preliminary experiments and arrang^ements for the commence-
ment of manufacture. The enclosed circular, which gives full
information of the position and prospects of the Company, explains
the object of an extraordinary resolution which will be submitted
to the shareholders after the adoption of the report and the
accounts. The retiring Directors on this occasion, Messrs. £. J.
Carson and W. Elmore, being eligible, offer themselves for re-
election. The auditors, Messrs. Deloitte, Dover, (iriffiths, and
V'O.f offer themselves for re-election.
Cr. Balance-sheet, Dec. SI, 1891. £ s. d.
Share capital authorised —
100,000 shares of £2 each 200,000 0 0
Share capital issued —
33,250 shares of £2 each allotted
to the vendor company
in part fiayment £06,500 0 0
66 750 shares of £2 each sub-
scribed 133,500 0 0
£200,000 0 0
484 14 0
100,000
I^ess calls in arrear
199,515 6 0
Premium on 66,750 shares 33,375 0 0
Six per cent, mortgage debenture stock, redeem-
able in November, 1893, at 5 per cent, premium 50, (KK) 0 0
Deposits on shares forfeited 8 0 0
Sundry creditors for outlay on works —
In Paris, open accounts £18,344 19 6
In London, bills payable 9 (KX) 0 0
In Paris, bills payable 1 8,694 7 0
46,0.S9 6 6
Sun iry creditors in London 3,239 14 1
Note. — There are liabilities under contracts
running for unfinished work in connection with
the construction and etjuipment of the factory.
£.^32,177 6 7
Dr. £ 8. d.
Cost of patents (including premiums on shares
issued) 183,375 0 0
37i acres of land at Dives, and cost of acquisition.. 6,466 3 9
Six acres of land at Bellegarde 5. 270 0 0
Buildings and general works (including workmen's
dwellings) 2S,757 1 9
Plant, m€tchinery, tools, etc 64,402 18 4
Railway siding 1,3(K) 5 11
Payments to contractors, on account of work done 3,259 10 2
Stock of copper, materials, etc 14,832 17 3
Office furniture and fittings in Paris, and at Dives 1,085 8 6
Fittings of retail shop to supply workmen 333 4 4
Sundry debtors -In Paris £149 4 4
In London 223 6 0
Cash — In Paris and at Dives
In London
5.373 14 2
368 7 6
5,742 1 8
Experimental work— 315,287 2 0
In Paris laboratories and at Dives 2,913 18 1
In London 103 10 0
3,017 8 1
Establishment charges at Dives —
Salaries and allowances, stationery,
fire insurance, and sundry ex-
penses 2,326 5 6
Establishment charges in Paris —
Travelling, plans, fittings of offices,
legal charges, and sundry ex-
penses 858 8 7
Creneral administration charges in Paris —
Fees of local committee, salaries of
general manager and staff, rent,
stationery, travelling, postages
and telegrams, and sundry ex-
penses 4,928 1 1
8,112 15 2
General administration charges in London —
Directors' fees 2,125 0 0
Salaries 963 14 U
Law charges 345 4 0
Travelling 299 11 1
Patent renewals 169 2 0
Rents, rates, taxes, printing and
stationery, posti^es and tele-
• grams, and sundry office ex-
penses 646 16 4
4,549 8 4
Less transfer fees 226 10 0
4,322 18 4
Debenture interest to December 31,
1891 2,057 16 2
Less interest received from
deposits, etc., in London
and in Paris 681 12 2
1,376 4 0
Exchange difference 60 19 0
£332,177 6 7
The following circular to shareholders, signed by Mr. Shurmor,
secretary to the Company, has been issued with the Directors'
report: ''You were informed by your Chairman, Id a leHtter
aodreflsed to you on the 1st day of January last, of bis unpreesioiM
after visiting the Company's works at Dives, near Havre, France,
and that he nad witnemed the commencement of the manufacture
of the first tubes started in the works. Since that time {^reat pro-
gress has been made towards completing the first portion of the
works, so as to commence manufacturing on a oomineroial scale —
namely, 300 tons per month— and the iSreotors are pleased to be
able to announce to the shareholders that they have received
official information from Mr. Secretan, the director-general, that
this is accomplished, and that he is inviting all the leading copper
users in France, together with the engineers of position, to visit
the works after the 15th inst., and to see for themselves the
remarkable quality of copper articles manufactured under the
Elmore process. In the event of any shareholder desiring to
inspect the works, a card of admission to enable him to do so can
be nad on application at the office of the Company ; the Directors
believe that visitors will be greatly impressed with the extent of
the works, the admirable way in which the^ have been fitted up,
and the ease and simplicity of the manufacture. At the time
when the services of Mr. Secretan were secured, he impressed
upon the Board, who communicated his views to the shareholders,
that it would be useless to attempt to embark in the business
which the French Elmore Comfjany was formed to carry on unless
the works were capable of turning out a minimum quantity of 300
tons per month, as the demand would very much exceed this quan-
tity, and he knew that unless the Company was in a position to
supply all the various descriptions of articles that would be required,
a large portion of the more remunerative part of the business
would be lost. His willingness to take charge of the Company's
affairs in France was conditional on the estabushment of works on
this scale. As the shareholders are aware, at the time the Com-
l>any was formed it was intended only to erect a plant capable of
turning out 80 tons per month, and the capital of the Company
was framed on that basis. It is obvious, therefore, that the addi-
tional capital necessary to complete the payment for the more
extensive works which have been erected, and to provide the
additional working capital reauired, amounting to £120,000,
should now be raised ; indeed, out for the credit enjoyed by Mr.
Secretan with the contractors, that must have been done some
time since ; but the Directors were desirous of not coming to
the shareholders until they could inform them that the factory
was completed on the above scale and manufacture com-
menced. Accordingly, they now enclose a notice calling a
meeting of shareholders to authorise an increase of the capital of
the Company for the purpose above mentioned. In the circular of
the Directors, dated 29tn October, 1890, thev communicated the
fact that Mr. Secretan anticipated that the sales could easilv reach
900 to 1,000 tons per month, and it will be observed in his last
report, dated Ist of April, 1892, that he contemphites in a short
time being overwhelmed with orders, and urges that the output
should be increased from 300 tons a month to 550 tons per month,
equal to 6,600 tons per year. Seeing that the consumption in
France amounts to 18,000 tons a year of copper tubes, plates,
rollers, wire, and similar articles, there is no doubt, looking at the
increased profits, that it is good policy for the Company to
adopt the suggestion to get the larger output at as early
a date as possible. This will require a further sum m
£120,000, making a total increased capital of £240,000. The
mode by which this capital should be nused has occupied
the attention of the Directors for some time past ; various
plans suggested themselves, and after mature consideration
they have finally decided to raise it by increasing the existing
£50,000 of debenture stock to £100,000. and by the issue <3
£200,000 of preference shares. The debenture stock will bear
6 per cent, interest, and the preference shares will be entitled to a
preference dividend of 10 per cent., and, out of surplus profits,
after the ordinary shares nave received 15 per cent., to an extra
5 per cent. , making a total of 15 per cent. Looking at the amount
shown by Mr. Secretan as earnable by the entire plant intended
to be erected, it will at once be realised that the preference shares
to be created will be an unusually solid and exceptionid invest-
ment. With a view to furnish all the information possible, the
Directors called on Mr. Secretan for a report of the earning power
of the plant when so completed. This report states that the
profits of the factory would amount to £151,800 per annum, and
it is 80 important and interesting that the Directors enclose a
verbatim copy for the shareholders' information. ' The Directors
have pleasure in stating that Mr. Secretan reporUi that his
ori^al estimate of the cost of production has already been
verified by actual manufacture, and that he is of opinion
that this will be materially reduced in future. As regards the
E rices to be realised, the estimate submitted by Mr. Secretan has
een based on the scale price of ordinary articles of commwce,
and mostly of the cheapest description, no credit being taken for
any extra prices which will undoubtedly be realised on account
of the superior qualities of our manufactures, nor for those more
expensive and remunerative articles for the economical manu-
facture of which the Elmore process is specially adapted. The
Directors are convinced, from independent enquiry, that the
average price taken in this estimate will be exceeaed, with a
consequent augmentation of the large profits referred to. Of
the new capital, the Directors propose to issue at once 60,000
S reference shares of £2 each, and the remainder with the
ebenture stock in about six months' time, when it is
anticipated that the existing works will be fullv occupied.
To enable the shareholders to judge of the exceptional value of the
preference shares now to be created, a tabular statement is given
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER. APRIL 22. 1892.
407
OepoatiogCompuijr, Limited, who tormecftbUCoiDpaay.degirins
aiait inoTOry way, have en^^ed toRuaranteethe payment (or tl
fint jMtr of B alnimum dividend of 10 per oent. upon the preae:
at the end hereof, showing the raniltto both cIbhw of ebarea— the
pnference and the ordinary. It will be seen that the prefereiice
aluuei will be Beoiir«d oiion a revenue many times the amount
required, whilst the exiating ordinary sharee will benefit by reason
of there being no aagmentation of them. It is intended to offer
40,000 of the preferenoe shares aow to be issued, \mag twothirds
of the onraber, exclusively to the present shareholders in the pn>-
porlion of two preference shares for each five ordinary shares
standing in their names on the share twister on the 22nd inst. , and
the remalniDg one -third— namely 30,000 preferenoe fiharee— will be
offered to the general public, it being thought by the Directors
desirable to have the support of many persons interested in the
copper trade, who in all prelmbilily may desire to subscribe. The
Directors have considered that it mav be to the convenience of
some shareholders to pay their inatatments over a considerable
period, and they have accordingly made them payable over a
period of six months. The Directors, however, wul reeerve lo
those who wish to pay in advance of the due dates power to do so,
in which case they will receive the guaranteed dividend referred
to below from the dates of payments of such instalments. One
feature of the issue will daabtleas'be satisfactory to the share-
holders—namely, that Elmore's Foreign and Colonial Copper
n.._^i: n . t ;_:i.j _.i.-f-_ P.i.i_i-. j__i_-_",
the
, „ — — ^.™ ^. 10 nar cent, utinn the nrft*
IB of praference shares, so that tht _, ^.
of an JDOome from the date of the payment of the shares. That
companj' and your Directors do not anticipate thai this Kuarantee
will be 1^ all required, but your Directors think it right to acknow-
ledge the liberality with which the Foreign and Colonial Company,
without payment, have complied with ihe request made to them
I^DB tooo-operate with your Directors in giving the shareholders
ererv advantage that the prosperous clrcumstanoes of this Company
amply justify. Finally, tbo Directors, in annooncing thearrange-
mentA made for the advantage of the shareholders, trust they will
appreciate the foresight shown by your Board in having laid out
the works on a scale sufficiently larse to cope with the demand
which has been proved to exist for the Company's manufacture,
thns establishing for the Company the prestige so necessary for
obtaining large and important contracts.
Table showing division of profits based on Mr. Secretan's eati'
mate, with an output of 550 tons per month, upon a capital of
£100.000 8 per cent, debentures, £200,000 preference shares,
and £200,000 ordinary shares.
Amount of annual proHt, as per Ur. Secretan's report
(3,796,000f.l £151,800
Lees French officials' proportion of commisalon on profits
and London expenaes 31,660
Annual net profit £120,240
Intereet on £100,000 e per cent. deWiture stock 8,000
£114,240
10 par cent, dividend on £200,000 preference shares 20,000
£04,240
15 per cent, dividend on £200,000 ordinary shares 30,000
04,240
6 per cent, extra on above preference sharee making 15
percent 10,000
£54,240
5 per cent, extra on above ordinary sharee, making 20
percent. 10,000
Surplus £44,240
The surplus being available for extra dividend and reserve fund,
or other purposes as may be agreed upon by the shareholders in
general meeting.
Siimjnary.
Dividend of 15 per cent, on £200,000 preference shares ... 30,000
Dividend of 60 per cent, on £200,000 ordinary sharee ... 40,000
Surplus 44,240
£114,240
*' I beg to place before you the position of your Company in
France at the present time. I have the satisfaction to inform you
thai after long delays caused by caaee of force majew., by
necessity of adapting the different mfiehanisms of the _
fireoesB to the special requirements of French demands, the
■ctory is entirely finished, and the Dnat modifications brought to
bear on the material first proWded for are deSnitely realised. We
have now 120 tanks aotually ready to commence regular working
for the manufacture of the ordinary tubes of oommerce, and 144
large tanks also ready for the manufacture of sheet copper and
wire. Up to the present, on account of the large programme
which we set ourselves, we believe that, tor various reasons and
in order t4> avoid any misfortune, we should not accept firm
order*, making an exception, however, in the case of a few
of Iheee orders, in consequence ol the Intereet which Ibey
present for your Comp«Qy. One of these ordera, especially
destined for the French Navy, will be delivered daring
the first fortnight in April. I do not hesitate to inform
you that ibs reception will demonstrate the superiority of our pro-
ductions. I am to-day informing the commercial and industrial
firms in France that we have definitely commenced normnl and
regular manufacture, and 1 am soliciting orders promised me in
advance by the EarEest firms in this country. From now to the
ISth April next at latest we shall have at least BO tanks containing
400 mandrels in full work, producing at least 100 tubes a day,
of which the disposal is assured. I have much satisfaction in
announcing that after our persevering efforts, all the products
which we are now beginning to deliver, and shall contiaue to
deliver each day, will answer in all respects to the programme
intended to be followed of a perfect and regular manufacture.
Regarding the value of our work, if vou think that additional
testimony to my own should be produced, you have in your
bands the strong and Qattering attestations of the nrma
Gueldry, Brimault and Tillier, Fel, and also of the old-established
firm of Cail ; and lastly, I propose to obtain other testimonials
from the most important houses in this conntry. If this does not
appear enough, in order to reply still more completely to all the
criticisms that may ari^c I propose also to open the doors of the
factory at Dives to all the honourable and competent experts in
France, in order to show thom the truth of my assertions by placing
before them our manufactures just as they come from the tanks, as
well as the mechanical work, the most difficult which copper can
be put to. Also it would give me pleasure if you would cm
your side invite the most competent canaumers and eipertd
in England to see the results obtained. The moat sceptical
will t£ns be forced to give wn^ (« evidence, and this demon'
stration will be more convincing than words. In tlddition
to this undeniable proof of our excellent manufactures I have
the satisfaction to inform you, and the eiperte will be able
to see it themselves, that not only will the cost price se at first
announced not be surpassed, but, thanks to improvements I have
been able to bring about, this price will k>e notably decreased.
The presumed pronte which I indicated to you as being possible
to be realised with the projected Issue of 3,000,000f. will amount
to a fieure very cloee to l,400,000f. There is no doubt whatever
that the 300 tons which we can produce with the actual organisa.
tion of the factory at Dives will oe easily absorbed by the current
demand, and in a short lime we shall be overwhelmed with new
orders. We have seen from the commencement ^lab an increase
at plant to cope with such nn increase of orders would be necessary.
If you are of opinion that such increase ought to be made witfaont
delay, I would propose to apply it exclusively to the manufacture
of tubes of a small and of a medium size, which are required every
day. Herewith I subjoin the results to be obtained with a
further capital of 3,000,00af., making the now issue to 6,000,000f.
We can then turn out 250 tons a month more, or a total of 3,000
2,400.000r. (£96,000). This large profit, derived from compara-
tively small additional capital, is explained by the fact that the
3,000,000f. would be entirely devoted to a special manufacture,
the most profitable in the copper trade, which would not, moreover,
be handicapped with anything for the purchase of land, adminis-
tration expenses, sidings, foundry, laboratory, and especially of
patents. 'The reason why we have not established the Dives works
exclusively for small and medium tubes is because it would have
been impoesible to ensure meeting all the current demands of the
trade if we did not commence by also producing sheet copper,
tubes, and wire. Now having to-day the means of making sheet
and wire, which bring in less, while at the same time we make b
certain quantity of tubes which return more profit, we ore in a
position to satisfy the rec|uirements of the principal trade.
Annexed are schedules showing the several profits resulting from
the comparative outlay of 3,000,000f. or 6,000,000f, With an issne
of 3,000,000f- our profiU amount to l,305,000f. (£66,000), and with
an issue of e,000,00ef, to 3,T95,0Oef. (£151,800). Reeardiog the
disposal of a total production of 6,&00 tons annually, there is
no necessity for any fear, seeing that the production In France
amounts to 18,000 tons a year, and that new sources of consump-
tion dolly arise. It is tor you, gentlemen, as well as the share-
holders, to determine which of these two capitals should beadopted
for the new issue."
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
Carlett Blsetrtn>l BnclneerlBg aotapmaj. Limited.— Regis-
tered by C. Doubble, 14, Serjeant's-inn, E.C , with a capital of
£10,000 in £10 shares. Object : to carry into effect an agreement
made April 2 between G. S. Corlett of the one part and J. C.
Kenyon, on behalf of this Oimpony, of the other port, for the
acquisition of the nndet-Laking of an electrical engineer, now
carried on by G. S. Corlett, at Wigan and Bolton, lAucaahire, and
to develop and extend the tame in all its branches. There shall
not be less than three nor more than seven Directors ; the first to
be elected by the signatories to the memorandum of association.
Qualification, £300. Remuneration to be detormined by the
Company in general meeting.
neetrle CyoU STndloote, LbBfMd.— RegUteiad by Ooldring,
Mitchell, and PbiUpa, 20, Abohurah-lane, with a SBptUl of a,(m
mechanical engineers i
BTtiotes of a«so3atloQ.
408
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 22, 1892.
BUSINESS NOTES.
Wastem mad Brartllan Telegraph ComiMUiy.— The reoeipts
for the week ended April 8 were £3,052, and those for April 15,
£2,746.
Wast India and Panama Telegraph ComiMuiy. — The estimated
traffic receipts for the half -month ended April 15 are £2,673. as
compared with £3,661 in the corresponding period of 1891. The
December receipts, estimated at £4,878, reaused £4,914.
City and Sontli London Ballway.— The receipts for the week
ending 17th April were £734, against £816 for tne same period of
last year, or a decrease of £82. The total receipts to date from
January 1, 1892, show an increase of £1,088, as compared with
last year.
BomoraL — Mr. Robert G. Ivey informs us that he has removed
from 22a, Chatham-place, Hackney, and has taken lar^r
premises with steam power at 7, Portpool-lane, E.G., where ne
nas facilities for carrying out every description of electrical
manufacturers' work. Mr. Ivey is making it speciality of repairing
dynamos.
In Idanldatton.— Mr. F. G. Painter (of the firm of Tribe, Clarke,
Painter, and Co.), the official liquidator of the Electrical Automatic
Delivery Box Company, Limited, wUl, with the sanction of Mr.
Justice Kekewich, pay a first and final dividend of Is. 8^. per
share on and after the 19th inst., at his offices, 19, Coleman -street,
E.C. The creditors have been previously paid 20s. in the pound.
DnUln. — Tenders are beine invited for a complete installation
of telephones and electric bells at the new Hotel Metropole, Sack-
▼ille-street, Dublin, for Mr. R. Mitchell. Plans and specifications
mav be had from Mr. W. Leake, electrical engineer, 30, Victoria-
buildings, Manchester, for which a charge of £1. Is. will be made,
the same to be remitted on receipt of a TOna fide tender. Tenders
to be enclosed in a sealed envelope, endorsed " Tender for Tele-
I^ones," and sent in by 27th inst.
Oroat Korthom Telegraph Company. — For the year 1891
the accounts of the C'Ompany show, including £48,216 brought
down, receipts £359,646, and expenses £65,448. The interest on
debentures and amortisation abiBorbed £21,250, and the interim
dividend of 5 per cent, paid on 150,000 shares and the extra
dividend of 7s. 2d. required, together £129,166. In addition
£83,333 was placed to the reserve and renewal fund, £2,777 added
to the pension fund of the staff, £1,500 apportioned as remunera-
tion to Directors, and £56,169 carried forward.
Tlio Bell Telephone Company, at its last annual meeting in
Boeton, increased its capitalisation from 15,000,000doLB. to
17)500,000doLB. The instruments in use amount to 512,407, an
increase over 1890 of 28,617 ; exchanges 788, increase 14 ; total
miles of wire 266,456, increase 26,044. The estimated number of
telephone connections daily in the United States made up from
actual count in most of the exchanges is 1,584,712, or a total in the
year exceeding 500,000,000. The total revenue reported by all
companies was l,638,653dols. The '' long-line " company — the
American Telephone and Telegraph Company— intends, during
the course of the current year, to fill the gapbetween Cleveland, 0.,
and Hammond, HL, which last-named place is already connected
with Chicago, thus giving through Boston, New York, and
Chicago.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1802.
Apbil 11.
6888. An Improved oondnlt oystom for eleotrlo eondnoiora.
Wilfred L. Spence, IHie Elms, Seymour-grove, Manchester.
6911. Zmprorementa In obango-over meolumlam for eleotrlo are
lamps. William James Davy, 30, Cornwall-road, Stroud
Green, London.
6949. Improvements in and apparatus for the eleotrolysis of
solntlons of salts or oomponnds of the alkalies, more
sspeolaUy intended for the mannfaotnre or prodnotion of
alkalies and oUorine and for bleaching. Julius Marx,
47, Lincoln 's-inn -fields, London.
6954. Improved means of prednoing motive power and eleo-
trloity. Richard J. Crowley and William Walker, 22,
Coltart-road, Liverpool.
6961. Improvements in antomatie switohes for eleotrioal appa-
ratus. Aibrecht Heil, 4, South-street, Finsbury, London.
(Complete specification.)
April 12.
6989. Improvements relating to oondnlts, applioaUe for oom-
Maednse as oasings for eleotrioal eondnotors and for
gas supply, or for either use separately. John Alexander
McMnUen, 124, Chancery-lane, London.
7003. Unprovemonts in ooal-eutting maehlnes with spooial
reforonoe to eleetrieal motive power. Robert John
Charleton and Henry Walker, 46, Lincoln's-inn-fields,
London.
7004. Improvements in eleetrieal oooking apparatus. Andrew
Wallace, 46, Lincoln's-inn-fields, London.
7008. Improvements in olsatrle light fittings. William Arthur
Heyes, 21, Finsbury-pavement, London.
7009. An improved telephone transmitter. Henry Skipper and
Henry James Pierce, 97, Newgate-street, London.
7016. Improvements in eleotrlo fittings. James McFarlane and
fVlUlMD BaigeBB Edgar^ 164, St. Vincent-street, Glas^^w.
7029.
7037.
7004.
7081.
7088.
7095.
7126.
7142.
7144.
7170.
7172.
7206.
7220.
7226.
7235.
7237.
7252.
7253.
7264.
7276.
Improvements in olsatrle oaUsa. (George Gatton Mslholsh
Hardingham, 191, Fleet-street, London. (The ifnn of
Felten and Guilleaume, Germany.)
An improvement In eleotrlo are lamps. Reginald Beifield,
28, Southampton-buildings, Chanoery-lane, London*
Improvements In dynamometers. Edgar James Wood,
6, Bream's-buildings, Chanoery-lane, London. (Complete
specification.)
Improvements In telephone and elsetrlo ■Igwalltiig
eironlts between trains and slgnal-lnnMS. John Dampier
Hickman, 22, Southampton-buildings, Chanoery-laiie,
London.
April 13.
An improved dry battery. Arthur William Wetherelt, 97«
Newgate-street, London.
Improvements In eleotrlo are lamps. James Sogden and
Wallace James Lambert Sandy, 99, Wyndham-road, Gam>
berwell, London.
Improvements in eleetrieal distrlbntlon. Arthur Wrigkt»
26, Park-crescent, Brighton.
An improved method of renewing tnosndesesnt tfaeMs
lamps. Ernst August Kruger, 191, Fleet-street, London.
Improvements In sooondary batteries. George Hawkins
Cutting, 77, Chancery-lane, London.
Ap&il 14.
An improvement In primary batteries. Thomas Sdwln
Weatherall, 42 Annandale-road, East Greenwich.
Xleetrlcal surgioal Instruments. Stephen Rowe Bradley»
70, Chancery-lane, London. (Complete specification.)
Improvements in or oonneoted with oonasetloins or
ooupllagi for eleotrlo and other eables and ropss. Arthur
Annesley Voysey, 15, Water-street, Liverpool.
An improved primary battery. Fred Beddow Stone,
Eardley Villa, Belvedere, Kent.
Improvements In or relating to the olsotrle treatmant ef
metal or other bodies. Carl Hubert Auguste Hobo and
Eugene Auguste Clement Lagrange, 323, High Holbom,
London.
Improvements in eoal-outtlng maehlnes with sp^aiAl
reforonoe to the applieatlon of eleotrioal motive power.
Robert John Charleton and Henry Walker, 46, Linooln's-inn-
fields, London.
Improvements In eommutators for eleetrieal maehlnsa
Buchanan Stewart Paternon and John BrokenshireFurneaux,
46, Lincoln's-inn-fields, London.
Improvements In eleotrioal distributing apparatas.
Rookes Evelyn Bell Crompton and William AiBhcombe
Chamen, 55, Chancery-lane, London.
Improvements in generating eleotrleity and prodnsias
air in a luminous state, and In apparatus tharsibr.
Terrence Dufify, 45, Southampton-buildings, Chanoery-lane,
London. (Complete specification).
Improvements in eleotrlo are lamps. Haydn Theli
Harrison, 46, Lincoln's-inn -fields, London.
April 16.
Improvements In eleotrlo meters. Herbert WoodviUe
Miller, 2, York-mansions, Earl's Court, London.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1891.
3570. Xleotro-therapeutio apparatus. George.
8031. Eleotrlo heating, etc. Howard.
8126. Dynamo-eleotrio machines. Philpott.
9079. Kleotrolytie extraotion of metals, etc. Hoepfner.
9423. ■leotrio inoandesoent lamps. Grenfell.
16270. Kleotrio aooumulators. Thompson. (Correns.)
17655. Heating metals by eleotrloity. Burton and others.
1892.
177. Kleotrio drop lights. Painter.
2330. Kleotrio switohes. Gimingham.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE UST.
Brash Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, Gutta Peroha & Telegraph Co
House-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Electric Construction
Westminster Electric
Liverpool Electric Sapply |
^Hm
Paid.
Wednes
dv
^.^
H
—
2i
10
5
5|
^—
sf
. 6
1
Si
H
—
H
6
H
10
...
H
6
H
8
3
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 29, 1892.
409
NOTES.
Milan, — ^An international electrical exhibition is to be
held at Milan in 1893.
Keiffhley. — ^The increase of consumers using the
electric light is exercising the Gk» C!ommittee of Keighley.
Bray, — The electric installation at Bray, Ireland, is
driven by a pair of 25in. Victor turbines of the horicontal
type.
Sherborne. — There being no tender, for the electric
indicator required by the Sherborne Local Board, the
matter has been adjourned.
iSleetrio Light Cables. — Mr. Stuart Bussell's work
upon electric light cables and the distribution of electricity
is about to be translated into French and Spanish.
Crystal Palace Jnry. — The name of Mr. Albion T.
Snell has been added to the jury of Section 3 — dynamos
and motors — for the Crystal Palace Exhibition awards.
Bromley. — An Electric Lighting Committee of the
Bromley Local Board has been appointed, consisting of
Messrs. Thomas Davis, T. C. Mclntyre, G. H. Payne, and
H. Selby.
Royal Institiition, — A course of experimental lectures
on "The Chemistry of Gkises," is being giren by Prof.
Dewar, F.B.S., on Thursdays, at 3 o'clock, at the Boyai
Institution.
ChieaflTO Exhibition, — The Boyal Commission
(Society of Arts, Adelphi, London) announce that no
charge will be made for space in the British Section of the
above exhibition.
Willenhall. — A notice is to be moved by Mr. Trubshaw
that the Willenhall Board consider the question of buying
up the gas works, and taking the illumination of the town
into their own hands.
CoQoert. — A very successful smoking concert wai given
on Friday at The Champion Hotel, Aldersgate-street, by
the instrume.it inspectors of No. 1 division of the National
Telephone Company.
Technical Instruction. — A post is open at St.
Helens as organiser of technical education to the Town
Council at £180 a year ; preference given to those able
to lecture on technical subjects.
Mairnetism. — A prize is offered by the Industrial
Association of Berlin of a gold medal, value £150, to the
author of the best work upon the magnetism of iron, to be
sent in before 15th November, 1893.
Turkish Telcflrraphs. — Tenders are being obtained
for the supply of iron telegraph posts and insulators for
the Turkish Government The specification can be seen in
the Mus6e Commercial, rue des Augustins, Brussels.
Bexhill. — The Viscount Cantelu(>e has entrusted the
lighting of his new house at Bexhill to Messrs. Drake and
Qorham, who are now engaged in putting down an instal-
lation for lighting the house, outlying buildings, and grounds.
Belgian Electric Railways. — The Belgian Minister
of Public Works is investigating the working of electric
tramways in Europe, with a view, it is stated, of the
probable adoption of electric traction on the Belgian State
railways.
Paris. — ^The electric lighting company for the Secteur
des Champs-Elys^es at Paris has received authorisation to
place armoured main cables for high-tension alternate
currents direct in the ground, and to place transformers in
the houses of customers.
Society of Arts. — Considerable interest is likely to be
s hown in the paper to be read on May 4, at 8 p.m., before
the Society of Arts, on " The Bradford Corporation Elec-
tricity Supply," by Mr. Jas. N. Shoolbred. Mr. W. H.
Preece, F.RS., wiU preside.
Recorerinff Oold firom the Sea. — We see it is
proposed to attempt in likely places to recover the
dissolved gold from the sea. The low E.M.F. required is
supposed to promise that gold might even be recovered at
less cost than by mining. We doubt it
Gronnded Mains. — A considerable discussion is being
carried on in New York with reference to the advisability
of grounding the third, or neutral, wire in the three-wire
system. Prof. Henry Morton gives an emphatic opinion
that this practice increases the fire risk.
Sheffield. — A joint meeting of the Chesterfield and
Midland Counties Institute of Engineers and the Midland
Institute of Minins;, Civil, and Mechanical Engineers will
be held at Sheffield on the 3rd of May, when several papers
will be read and visits paid to various collieries.
Bideford. — At the last meeting of the Local Board,
one of the members, Mr. Bestarick, upon the acceptance of
the gas company's tender for lighting, enquired how they
stood with respect to electric lighting. He pointed out
that they were making improvements in the town, and he
thought it desirable that the electric light should be
introduced.
Sale of Plant. — As will be seen from their advertise-
ment, Messrs. Wheatley Kirk, Price, and Goulty have an
extensive sale of electrical plant at 39, Queen-street, KC,
on May 17th and iSth. The sale comprises dynamos,
engines, boilers, arc lamps, fuses, instruments, and so forth,
and most of the principal items are stated to be new, or
practically new.
Electric Street Railways.— A Boston news bureau
reports that out of the 16 cities of over 200,000 population
in the United States, 14, or over 87 per cent., are using the
electric railway system or equipping roads with the
system ; and out of 42 cities with population ranging
from 200,000 to 50,000, all but one are using the electric
railway system.
Southport. — At a special meeting of the Southport
Town Council on Tuesday, the Council accepted an effer
for the transfer of three acres, one rood, and 18 perches
of land adjoining the gas works. It was explained that
about three acres of the land would be utilised for electric
lighting. The question of a destructor on the remainder of
the land was raised, but not discussed.
Cardift — Messrs. Tucker have recently erected what is
described as one of the finest flour-mills in the kingdom.
It is nearly 100ft. high, and occupies an area of over
30,000 superficial feet, of which nearly 8,000 will be
devoted to milling. The machinery is driven by compound
engines of 800 h.p., and the whole will be lighted through-
out by electricity, by plant supplied by Mr. Wilson Hartnell.
The Engineering Exchange. — We are informed by
the secretary that the Engineering Exchange opens on
Monday next, May 2, at 12 o'clock. The opening meeting
will be in the exchange-room of the " Jerusalem,'' Limited,
Billiter House, Billiter-sireet, E.C., where the committee
have secured preliminary accommodation. All parties
interested in engineering are invited to attend at the
opening.
Fire Alarms for Chelmsford. — Tenders are required
for providing, erecting, and maintaining a system of electric
fire alarms and telephonic communication for the Chelms-
ford Town Council. A map showing positions and a speci-
fication can be seen at the office of Mr. G. H. Sasse, borough
surveyor, 14, Museum-terrace, Chelmsford, on and after
410
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 29, 1892.
i
25th Inst. Tenders to be sent to Mr. T. Dizon, town clerk,
Chelmsford, by noon on May 4.
Moscow. — MM. Koultchitohi and Stabrowski are
founding a Franco-Russian electrical manufacturing com-
pany at Moscow with a capital of four million francs. It
is intended to establish a large works containing plant for
the manufacture of all kinds of electrical apparatus,
telephones, dynamos, motors, and electric railway material.
11 Stanilas Esmon, 65, Rue du Moulin-Vert, Paris, is the
agent of this new Russian company.
Primary Batteries. — ^It has been thought that the
requirements of the primary battery competition established
by the journal Elettriciia of Milan, that the price per kilowatt-
hour should not exceed one franc, will stop some inventors
from sending in their apparatus. The proposers state that
the battery which comes nearest to the requirements will
be selected, and that propositions will be made for taking
out patents and putting the apparatus in the market.
Eleetrio Lannolies on the Thames. — Mr. W. S.
Sargeant, electric and steam launch builder, of Strand-on-
the-Green, Ch iswick, and Eel Pie Island, Twickenham, has
received an order for an electric launch from W. T. Craw-
shay, Esq., of Caversham Park, Reading, Berks. The boat
will be running on the Thames this season. The accumu-
lators used will be the Electrical Power Storage Company's
latest boat type, which have proved very efficient for the
electric boat service.
Isle of Man. — The international exhibition to be held
at Douglas from July to September this year is to be
lighted throughout by electricity, and with commendable
foresight the promoters, having in view the probability that
the exhibition will be the first of a series to be held in the
same buildings, have determined to make the electric light
installation a permanency. The contract is in the hands
of the Brush Electrical Engineering Company, who have
undertaken to have everything in readiness by July 4.
Popular Electricity. — We are in receipt of '<A
Ouide to Electric Lighting : for the Use of Householders
and Amateurs," by S. R. Bottone, published by Whittaker
and Co., price Is. It contains a considerable number
of illustrations, many of them of modern apparatus. The
title explains the nature of the book, which gives concise
description of apparatus without enlargements on the
theoretical aspect of the science. A chapter is given on
cost of lighting and another on the cost of driving a motor.
Celluloid Battery Plates. — The Winkler secondary
battery, as described in the Electrical World for April 9tb,
consists of V-shaped troughs of celluloid, having a metallic
conductor lying along the bottom, the trough being filled
in with peroxide paste. It is claimed that the conductor
can be made of sufficient carrying capacity to dispense with
lead frames altogether. The electrolyte may be liquid, or
semi-solid for portable uses. The weight of cell, it is
stated, is reduced 40 or 50 per cent, of that of lead
plate accumulators.
Dundee. — At a meeting of the Works Committee of the
Dundee Oas Commission on Monday, ex-Provost Brownlee
reported that Prof. Kennedy had been in Dundee and bad
inspected the proposed site for the electric lighting station,
and also the proposed area to be supplied with the new
illuminant. No report had yet been received from him,
but it was expected every day. It was agreed to call a
special meeting of the Commission as soon as the report
comes to hand, the desire being that, as time now presses,
the matter should be arranged as early as possible.
Dublin. — Tenders are invited for the supply of wires,
fittings, and sundries, and the erection of same, for the electric
lighting of Bome oi the civic buildings for the Lord Mayor
and Corporation of Dublin. Specifications may be obtained
at the offices of the borough surveyor, Mr. S. Harty, City
Hall, Dublin, and at the offices of the electrical engineer,
Mr. E. Manville, 39, Victoria-street, Westminster, on pay-
ment of one guinea, which will be returned on receipt of a
bond fide tender. Tenders must be lodged with Mr. John
Beveridge, town clerk. City Hall, Dublin, by 5 p.m. on
10th May.
Italian Eleetrio Railway. — A project for an electric
railway has been approved of by the Provincial Technical
Office, says the Daily News Naples correspondent, which, if
earned out, will give a much more easy mode of visiting
the beautiful Sorrento peninsula than exists at present
The railway is to run from Castellamare through Yico,
Serano, Meta^ Carotto, St. Aguello, and Sorrento to Masaa,
at the point of the peninsula. The projectors declare that
if their plan be carried out they will ofifer to the towns
above named great advantages for their illumination by
electricity.
Aurora Borealis. — Mr. J. L. Moore, of Chorlton-cum-
Hardy, writing to the Manchester Ouardian, says there was
aremarkably fine display of aurora borealis on Monday, visible
between 9.30 and 10. A broad luminous arch extended
from the north-west to the north-east, and from it many
shafts of light radiated upwards, shining sometimes
brightly and sometimes softly, several of them assuming at
intervals a faint crimson glow. The sky was brilliantly
starlit, Venus in particular shining resplendent in the west.
It would be interesting to hear if any magnetic disturbance
was contemporaneously observed.
Liverpool. — Notice is given that the Board of Trade
have issued a provisional order for electric lighting for
inclusion in a confirmation Bill about to be introduced into
Parliament to the Liverpool Electric Supply Company,
Limited, repealing the Liverpool Order of 1889, extending
the area of supply, and amending the provisions of the
1891 order. Copies of the 1892 order are on view at the
town clerk's office, Liverpool, and printed copies, price la.
each, are obtainable at the company's offices, 15, Highfield-
street, Liverpool, and in London at Messrs. Field and
Roscoe, 36, Lincoln's-inn-fields, W.C.
South Aftioa. — Projects for the transmission of water
power by electricity arebeingbroughtforwardinSouth Africa.
There is a fall of water near Table Mountain, some three
miles from Cape Town, which it is proposed to utilise. The
Hardeck Falls, 1 2 miles from Maritzburg, Natal, are also
to be used. We notice also that the Johannesburg Ghis and
Electric Company are inviting more capital in debentures,
though this is not for transmission of power, but for
lighting the town. The town of Pretoria had had a very
complete specification prepared, but nothing definite waa,
we believe, done in actual installation of plant.
Bell Telephone Company, Antwerp. — In reference
to our notice of the Western Electric Company's Antwerp
factory, Mr. Kingsbury writes that this factory, as well as
the other European factories of the company, has been
since its foundation under the charge of Mr. F. R. Welles,
under whose care the company's business over here has
assumed its present position. His absence from the factory
at the time of our visit was occasioned by the fact that his
increasing labours for many years past have necessitated a
brief respite from the more immediate management of the
Antwerp factory, though still directing the company's
European business generally.
Dublin. — At a special meeting of the Dublin Corpora-
tion on Wednesday, it was resolved, on the report of the
Electric Lighting Committee, that an amount of about
J&1,000 should be authorised for ezi>enditure on distribut
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL ^, 189S.
411
lag mains for private lighting. The committee do not
propose to lay mains or erect posts for arc lighting at
present. The Corporation received sanction to borrow
J&37,000, and on February 11, 1891, had authorised a
contract with the Electrical Engineering Company of
Ireland for £29 J 14, The item for mains was part of the
balance. Mr. J. L. Robinson said the demand for electric
lighting far exceeded the most sanguine expectations of the
committee.
Telephoning in the Army. — Colonel Keyser, the
inspector of signalling at Aldershot, states that the officers
feel an objection to the use of telephones on the field from
the absence of record, as anyone might go and shout a
message. The continental armies are giving attention to
the use of the telephone ; it has not been yet much adopted
by us on outpost duties, though the service possesses a
cable, weighing only 701b. per mile, that will stand a strain
of 5001b., and may be passed over by artillery without
damage. In the vibrating sounder, moreover, we possess
an instrument which, in combination with a telephone,
will transmit signals through bare wires laid on the ground,
or even through water.
Electric Light and Traction in Sweden. — The
first electric locomotive made in Sweden has been turned
out by Messrs. Edwin Andren and Co., of Gothenburg. It
is worked by accumulators, and is of 10 h.p. It is designed
to transmit electrical energy for lighting and industrial
purposes to the town of Ostersund from a waterfall 10
miles distant. The necessary steps towards carrying out
the scheme have already been taken, making the town the
first in Sweden supplied with electricity in this manner.
The Corporation of the city of Linkoping has decided upon
establishing an electric central station for lighting at a cost
of £12,000. It will be worked from a neighbouring water-
fall, producing a force of 215 h.p.
Smoke and Profits. — It is not generally known that
the consumption of coal is subject to very severe super-
vision in Paris, in order to prevent the production of fog
and smoke. The importation of coal is retarded by a con-
siderable impost, and that of wood and coke is encouraged
It is for this reason that soft coal is little consumed in the
g^y ci^yi ^ i^s great benefit in aerial perspective. The
fact militates against profits in certain industries, and
amongst others the central electric station of the
municipality, at the Halles Centrales, has recently felt
obliged to use coke instead of coal on account of the strin-
gent regulations as to smoke consumption, and has applied
for a grant of 40,000f. to defray the extra cost of this class
of fuel.
Moral Electricity. — John Wesley has been credited
in certain quarters with professing moral cures by means
of electricity. While this was far from what the worthy
doctor meant, there is acnother doctor, Dr. Whitehouse,
who advocates the gentle stimulus of the Ruhmkorff coil
as a cure for unruly boys in the Newark City Home. A
boy named Rafferty tried to stab one of his companions,
and in darkened room, with bared neck, he was plied with
stinging electrodes from the buzzing apparatus. The boy
probably thought he was going to be electrocuted, and
spread the report that he had been stung by red-hot needles
and awfully tortured. The method has proved effective,
and no second application has ever been required. The
authorities consider it an entire success for reducing vicious
tendencies.
City Qoilds Institnte. — The annual meeting of the
governors of the City and Guilds of London Institute was
held on Wednesday, Lord Selborne in the chair. The
report showed that the expenditure at the Central Institu-
tion was £11,489, the students' fees amounting to J&4,086,
the net cost being £7,403. The Finsbury College expendi-
ture amounted to £8,786, students' fees bringing in £3,032,
the cost being thus £5,754. The net cost of technological
examinations was £5,620. The expected income for the
present year was £31,870. Lord Selborne, in the course
of an address, reported very favourably upon the work
accomplished in all departments. The work carried out at
the Central Institution during the past year compared most
favourably with that attained by any science institution in
the country.
Derry. — A meeting of the Lighting Committee of the
Derry Corporation was held on the 21st inst. Councillor
Magee, as chairman of the Lighting Committee, presided.
The business of the meeting was to appoint an electrical
engineer to visit and inspect the city, and confer with the
Corporation and advise as to the best system to adopt for
the public and private lighting of Londonderry by elec-
tricity under the powers conferred by the provisional order,
and to prepare a full report and recommendation in writing
thereon. The committee, in response to advertisements in
the leading electrical journals, received applications from
32 gentlemen, six of whose names at a previous meeting
had been placed on a selected list to be considered at this
meeting. After fully considering and discussing the
qualifications of the several candidates, the choice fell upon
Mr. Henry W. Blake, of Manchester, who was then
formally appointed.
Bath. — Some of the councillors of Bath have been
expressing disapproval of the amount of light given out by
the lamps. Mr. Gatehouse, the surveyor, as will be
remembered, has brought up a full report, and Mr. Norris,
in commenting upon the report at the meeting last week,
said the real cause of the difficulty had been the globes.
They had produced a brilliant light, and then obstructed it
in a most effectual manner by the globes. Now they had
already grappled vrith that obstruction to the extent of
30 per cent., and he thought they had obtained a good
instalment of the improvement they all desired. Mr.
Gratehouse was fully abreast of his duties, and in getting
rid of a dirty globe he had done as much good as by
bringing in a lot of scientific apparatus. Some discussion
ensued as to the matter of improved globes, which Mr.
Sturges mentioned were used in Milsom-street, and subse-
quently a resolution was passed requesting the electric
lighting company to at once replace the imperfect globes
by those of an improved description. The report was
adopted.
City Liffhtinfir. — Colonel Haywood, in his report to
the Commissioners of Sewers on works executed during
1891, gives the details of the progress of the contracts and
works for the electric lighting of the City of London. In
1890, the contracts were assigned to the Brush and Laing-
Wharton Companies, and in January, 1891, the Commis-
sioners gave their sanction to the placing of a main junction-
box in Walbrook, and on 3rd February the work was
inaugurated by the Lord Mayor with ceremony. At the
end of 1891, the Brush Company had established a central
station at Meredith's Wharf, and laid their mains in
Queen Victoria and Cannon streets, St. PaulVchurchyard,
Queen-street, Walbrook, and Mansion House-place. They
had also fixed 25 lamp columns in Queen Victoria-
street, which were experimentally lighted on and after
17th June, and most of the gas was finally discontinued on
2lst September. At the end of 1891 the Lning,
Wharton, and Down Syndicate had laid mains in Lower
Thames-street, Arthur-street East, King William-street,
Cornhill, Gracechurch-street, and Lombard-street, and
had established a central station at Wool-quay, Lower
ThameS'Street. They had erected 25 posts, and tem|iorarily
412
THE BLEOTRiCAL ENGINSJlR, AJPRIL 29, 189^
lighted King William and Ghracechurch streeta and part of
ClornhilL On January 6 this year they permanently
lighted these streets, and the largest portion of the gas has
been discontinned. On August 21 the contracts were
transferred to the City of London Electric Lighting
Company. The company pushed the work on vigorously
during the month of December and the present year, and
has been actively engaged in carrying forward the laying of
■treet mains.
Coast Commoiiioatioii. — Every electrical engineer
will feel gratified this week to hear that Sir J. Ferguson,
the Postmaster-General, in reply to the resolution of Sir
Edward Birkbeck in the House of Commons on Wednes-
day, made the definite announcement that the Grovernment
were prepared to take in hand the improvement of our
coast communications. Sir K Birkbeck's resolution was to
the efifect that it was desirable that all coastguard stations
on the coast and signal stations should be telephonically
and telegraphically connected, and where such stations do
not exist the post offices should be connected, and that a
Boy al Commission be appointed to enquire into the desirability
of connecting certain light- vessels and lighthouses by cable
with the mainland. In this matter he said we were far
behind Denmark, the United States, and Holland. Sir J.
Fergusonstated that the Grovemmentrecognised the necessity
for extension of the telegraph communication on the coast,
and had framed an estimate of the working cost necessary
to connect telephonically the coastguard stations from
the Isle of Wight to Lynmouth in North Devon.
Exact calculations showed that the cost would be
something over J&l 6,000. The matter had now got
beyond the stage of contemplation, and the engineers
of the Post Office were taking active steps to give
effect to the scheme. A rough estimate had also
been made of the cost of establishing communication
between all our lighthouses and lightships and the shore,
and it was calculated that nearly £300,000 would be
required for the purpose. It was the intention of the
(Government to appoint a Royal Commission to investigate,
and they gladly assented to the motion of his hon. friend.
The resolution was agreed to.
Melbourne. — The specification for the Melbourne
central electric station has called forth an animated
expression of opinion from Messrs. Siemens and Halske, of
Berlin, who had been invited by their agents in Melbourne
to tender for the supply of the electrical machinery required
in the municipal scheme. Specifications were sent to the
firm by their Melbourne agents, and papers from Australia
give the following as an extract from their reply : " We
regret to learn from these conditions that it is intended to
use high-tension continuous current to run the arc
and incandescent lamps in series. This system is
based entirely on American principles, especially on
constructions of the Thomson-Houston International Com-
pany. After full consideration, and on the strength of our
experience, we are of opinion that our participation in the
competition would be quite unsuccessful. To fulfil the
conditions of the specifications we would have to make
special constructions for this project, and it seems to us
certain that we should be defeated on account of the prices
of the inferior manufactures of the competitors. We
would ask you to use all your influence to cause issues
regarding the electric lighting of towns to be made
in the future according to the approved European
mode, where the firms participating in the com-
petition get the details for the distribution and
consumption of light and power, it being left to the
submitters to propose a system which according to their
experiences is the most correct and best. ... It would
be a pity if the Australian towns would subject themselves
to American influence. In consequence of our great
experience, we are able to propose and to execute the best
system for electrical central stations of any size ; we
cannot, however, consent to such a plan as that proposed
by the city of Melbourne."
Carbon Transmitter wlthont Xlectrodee.— We
have been asked for particulars of Mr. Charles Cuttriss's
telephone transmitter without electrodes with spiral carbon
springs. This was described in the New York ElechiaU
Engineer of December 16, 1891. Experimenting to obtain
data on the resistance of carbon contacts under different
pressures and with different currents, Mr. Cuttriss found
that in one experiment a steady movement of the galvano-
meter showed an increase in resistance, while the opposite
effect was anticipated. Examining the carbon contacts
with a strong magnifying-glass, it was found there was at
first good contact between the carbons, but as they
expanded under the heat the surface became raised until
the contact became so small that it became incandescent for
an instant, when the points fell together again and the
action was repeated in cycles of 30 seconds. It occurred
to him to construct carbons which should have a tendency
to spring open and yet preserve continuity of contact.
After some trouble he constructed carbon helices for
this purpose. Some of these have a resistance in
their natural condition of 10 ohms, but iihen fully
distended the resistance is upwards of 500 ohms, and
a movement of y^^^ ^^ ^^ ^^^ tending to open the con-
volutions, makes a variation of 100 ohms or more. These
did not spark until the whole helix was heated to 300deg.
or 400deg. F. The absence of sparking under heavy
battery seemed to be a valuable feature for a telephone
transmitter, as there should be an absence of ear-breaking
*' kicks." He devised an arrangement in which the helical
carbon spring is permanently cemented to the diaphragm,
and presses against the end of an adjusting screw, by
which its tension can be regulated. The instrument was a
success, not only was speech transmitted loudly, but the
enunciation was so remarkably clear that he was led to seek
some particular reason for this. He attributes it to the
extreme lightness of the helix (generally less than one
grain), to the elimination of electrodes or contacts, and the
fact that each particle of the carbon, being in tension,
prevents jamming of the surfaces.
Paris Eleotrlo Railway. — The Conseil Municipal of
Paris has recently approved the project for a tubular elec-
tric railway from the centre of the city to the heights of
Montmartre. The project is due to M. Berlier, engineer.
It comprises a gigantic tube of cast iron five metres
diameter (IG^ft), the thickness of metal being 2^ centi-
metres (lin.). Within this tube, brilliantly lighted by
electricity, a series of trains, each containing 50 passengers,
at intervals of a few minutes, will be run at a speed of 20
kilometres (12^ miles) an hour. The system is admitted
greatly superior to that of the cable tramway to Belleville,
the working of which is very defective, and blocks instead
of clearing the road. The central terminus of the new
electric line would be beneath the block of buildings
at the intersection of Rues Faubourg-Montmatre,
Mauberge, and Lamartine. From there the line would
run in a straight line up the Rue Muton to the Butte
Montmartre, and descend with a slight bend to the Place
Marcadet. This was originally to be the further terminus,
but to serve the populous district of Clignancourt M. Berlier
has carried the proposed terminus 500 metres further, to
the intersection of Rues Champronnet, Duhesme, and
Boulevard Ornons. Six stations will be installed — vis., at
Carrefour de Chateaudun, Boulevard Roche Chouart, Phuse
SaintPierre, Butte Montraartrc, Place Marcadet, and Carre-
four Champion net. The laat three will be open to the air; that
at SaJDt-Pierre will be 20 metres below surface, served by
hydraulic lifts. The method of traction proposed la peculiar,
consisting of a combination of cable and electric traction.
The cable, instead of being itself in motion, will be fixed,
and the carriages will draw themselves along the cable.
An electric motor placed on each car will drive a drum
around which the hauling cable will pass, and will thus be
capable of regulating their speed at will of the driver.
The tube will contain two narrow railway lines for up and
down traffic ; the apace between the rails will be so
arranged as to be of normal gauge (4ft. SJin.), ao that at
night the waggons of the ordinary lines can penetrate to
the Central Markets by means of a connection with the
present Ceinctiire and the future Metro politaine line. The
time taken from terminus to terminuB, im;luding the slowing
to seven kilometres an hour up the hill, and all stoppages,
will be eight to nine minutes only. The charge is fixed at
30c, (2d.), the tickets including a return journey at any
hour of the same day.
French Physioai Society. — The opening evening of
the exhibition of the Socii^t^ Frani,:«ise de Physique was a
great success, everyone being pleased to witness a repeti-
tion of Tesla's brilliant experiments by Dr. D'Arsonval,
who has been able to simplify the apparatus required for
experimental purposes. A large RuhmkorfT coil, supplied
with current from a set of accumulators, had its aecondarj'
circuit connected to a condenser, the terminals of which
were fitted with knobs. The condenser discharged itself,
and this current was sent into a second Ruhmkorfl' placed
in oil. The secondary of this was terminated by two
knobs, between which the sparks of high frequency
passed. The requisite frequency was obtained by the
oscillation of the charge in the condenser circuit.
Ail the experiments of Tesla were re|>eated with
thii apparatus — illumination of tubes at a distance,
lighting lamps with one wire, and harmlessness of the
current to the body. Prof. Elihu Thomson's magnetic
rotation experiments weie reproduced, and some toy three-
phase current apparatus were exhibited. The lienard
primary battery, used by the Government for their flying
machine, was shown lighting lamps and driving motors. A
simple controller for incandescent lighting consumption,
by Maximo Laille, attracted attention by its simplicity and
the surety of its action. MM. Richard Freres had a large
selection of their registering instruments. A new battery
by Flavian Poudroux attracted attention, using zinc,
carbon, chlorhydrate of ammonia, and bichromate of
potash, using both surfaces of amalgamated zinc, and
giving four volts, 40 am(>eres ; interior resistance,
O'l ohm. M. Branly reproduced his interesting experi-
ments on the behaviour of insulators. A battery,
galvanometer, and a cylinder of the insulating material
are mounted in series, and the needle left at rest. A
apark from a condenser some yards away intluences the
insulating properties of the body tested, as shown by a
deflection of the needle, and becomes to some extent a
conductor until given a tap, when it recovers its normal
insulation. The Maison Besson exhibited a specimen of
the Giraud thermopile stove. This is about 5ft. high and
2ft. Sin. diameter. The heat can be utilised for warming,
besides which a current of four amperes at short circuit
CIO be obtained. The E.M.F. at open circuit is 40 volte,
but the output falls to two amperes at 20 volts in actual
use; it funuBhee 960 watt-hours in 24 hours, allowing a
service of 33 lamp-houra of 8 c, p. lamps. The consumption
of coke is about a franc per 2i hours, so that the kilowatt-
hour is taken to cost lOd.
Fortsmonth. — A public enquiry was held at Ports-
mouth last week by Mr. Arnold Taylor, Local Government
Board inspector, principally with reference to the applica-
tion of the town to borrow £60,000 for electric lighting.
The town clerk said the original application for power to
borrow for electric lighting purposes was made on a scheme
prepared by Mr. Shoolbred, but that part of the resolution
was afterwards revoked, and a scheme prepared by Prof.
Garnett was adopted. Prof. Garnett, in explaining bis
scheme, spoke of the large extent of the area of com-
pulsory supply, and said that wherever the stations were
placed the extent of mains would be at least one mile.
Besides this, the ratepayers could compel extension.
Consequently a system which would permit rapid exten-
sion was required. This meant an alternating- current
supply with a complete system of secondary mains in the
districts of supply, with transformers situated in street
boxes beneath the pavement. These could be placed
opposite large premises, avoiding secondary street
mains at these points. Ultimately there would be
a transfonnor every 300 yards, while at first they could
be few and far between. The high - tension current
would never enter consumers' premises, and the loss
due to transformers in every house would be reduced,
As regards the station, it was proposed to occupy
the site of the old amphitheatre opposite the Camber. The
advantages of this site were that steam colliers could bs
unloaded immediately opposite the central station, and
that sea-water could be obtained for condensing. The coat
of the entire scheme he estimated at £55,300, but it was
advisable to obtain permission to borrow £60,000, so
as to cover the purchase of met«rE!, the making of
consumers' connections, and general worsing capital.
Mr. B. C. Milter asked If Prof. Garnett had been engaged
on similar work before, but Alderman Ellis said the Cor-
poration and the Electric Lighting Committee were quite
satisfied with Prof. Garnett 's credentials. Mr. Miller said
that as Mr. Shoolbred's report was carried and afterwards
reported upon by Prof. Garnett. who drew up a further
report only carried by the casting vote of the Mayor,
he thought someone should be called in to re[tort upon
Prof. Garnett's scheme. Nearly all the schemes the
Corporation had undertaken had proved failures, and he
thought the higher cost of electric light would deter many
from using the supply. The Mayor explained that his
casting vote had been given, not aa between high and low
tension, but in favour of the matter being dealt with at
once. He bad been one of those who went to Bradford,
and been delighted with what was seen there. But they
found afterwards, not as the result of any communication with
Prof. Garnett, but as the result of interviews with gentlemen
who came down with the object of being engaged as engi-
neers, that what was suitable to Bradford was not at all suit-
able to Portsmouth. Prof. Garnett, in answer to questions,
said be had full belief the scheme would repay capital with
interest, and furnish some profit. Aa to turbo- electric
generators, such aa were proposed, they had stood the teat
admirably within his own experience, including a term of
six months while the Newcastle Exhibition was in progress.
He was in charge of the electric lighting of the exhibition,
which was a larger undertaking than the scheme now
pro|>osed for Portsmouth. At 6d. a unit the electric
light was making headway more and more every year,
agaiiist gas at Is. i'jd. per thousand feet. In the course
of further discussion, Mr. Manville, Prof. Garnett's asso-
ciate as consulting engineer for the scheme, endorsed what
the Professor bad said, and Alderman Ellia said he was in-
formed that the electric lighting company that was
originally formed in Portsmouth bad obtained orders for
Iti.OOO Iti-cp, lamps.
414
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 29. 1892.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
DIREOT-CURRBNT DYNAMOS.— V.
BT R. W. WXXEES, WHIT.BCH,
The nspectire adrantaeeB of the different types of field
nagfitt* will need conBidention under several headings,
and I propose to treat each individual machine amongst
thoee of similar type.
The principal electrical details to be considered in the
design of good field masneta are that as little exciting
power as possible shall be required, and that the
armatura reaction shall not have an injurious effect
on the machine when working at full load. The
ampere-turns on the armature can be considered in
the armature core. Hence in the large machine the
larger air gap mitigates the effect of the cross turns
somewhat The back ampere-turns are produced by
the current in the wire lying between the bnes aa', bb',
Fig. 27. Their effect is simply to weaken the field, and
hence they can be easily counteracted by compound
winding, or some other method of increasing the field
strength at full load. The symbols used in Fig. 27 may be
new to some readers. The wires marked with a cross
inside are those in which the currents flow up towards the
paper, and in the others with the dot the current flows
down. The amall arrows denote the path along which a
small north pole would be urged, and hence denote the direc-
tion and sense of the lines of force. The way in which the
armature reaction affects the induction at the edges of the
two parts — viz., the cross and back ampere-turns. The
cross ampereturns are produced by the current in the
wires lying under the poles and extending up to the
lines marked a a', b b'. Fig. 27. These distort the field, and
tend to cause lines of magnetic force round the dotted path
shown. The efiect is that the induction at the polar surface
is no longer uniform, but is weaker than before at the edge
of the pde which the conductors approach, and stronger at
the other edge. Consequently, the neutral axis is advanced,
and the lead of the brushes has to be still further advanced
to get sparkless running.
The cross ampere-turns, as will be easily understood,
increase with the size of the machine, and the distortion
of the field becomes much more marked. It must
not be forgotten that the distortion is proportional to
the cross ampere-tums multiplied by the polar area
and divided by the distance between the pole and
poles can be readily seen by these arrows. The neutral
axis would be a little behind a line joining the points of
brush contacts.
Another electrical consideration should be considered —
namely, that of magnetic leakage. This loss is caused by
the magnetic lines of force leaking across from one part of
the magnet to another, and hence not passing through the
armature. In very bailly-deaigned machines worked at the
saturation point, this leakage causes a constant waste o(
power which is very considerable. With well-designed
dynamos it can be reduced to from 15 to 30 per cenL of
the useful induction through the armature, but cannot be
completely done away with.
The following figures, taken from Mr. Esson's paper on
" Some Points in Dynamo and Motor Design," show what
the leakage with the different types may be, but these
values are high.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 29, 1892.
415
NMnoof]
EdiMxi- Hopkii
Sismens ...
MkBcbMter ...
TiotoriR
Femnti
Field. Armatura. _„ „ -»
pot cent.
Two-pole niaight type... Dmni 32
„ »
Two- Dole inverted R^ 32
Doable horaaihoe hori-
lontal type 40
Maocbeeter type „ 49
Foar-pole IHso 40
DoablB DUkgaet, multi-
polar Coreleae diio 100
The queatioQ of the stray field has been taken up from
the watchmaker's point of view by Mr. K Edier, of the
Royal School of Science, and he has measured the strength
of the magneUc fielrl around moat of the dynamos shown
the exciting coils, and the arrangement for attaching the
magnets to the bed -plate.
The Two-PoU Upright Type.— Tiat make of field magnets
was adopted in the first machines made by Ediaon, and
perfected by the Drs. Hopkinson. They shortened the
magnets and used the strong magnetic field, which baa
since proved to be the basis of all ^lod designs, llie type
has many advautages. The pull on the iron of tne
armature coil due to the want of magnetic balance tends
to lift it, and hence relieves the weight on the bearings.
Tasuloo Drsuna
The centre of rotation is low, and this fact much simplifies
the arrangement of pedestals, etc. It also gives a special
advantage for coupling direct to endnes, as there ia no
need to pack the engine up on a high i>ed-plate. This saves
BoMld A. Soott'i Drumo.
at work. The results of his researches will, I understand,
be shortly published in a paper before the Physical Society.
The mechanical design of the magnet U a very interesting
problem, and I propose to ooniider the following^ chief
points : the ease of manufaotnre, the method of windii^
valuable space in shiplighting nlante by reducing the
height. For these reasons several firms use this type of
field for coupled plant, although it is not the type they use
for belt-driven dynamos. The chief disadvantage ia that
it is not easy to [vevent nu^pietic leaki^ through to the
416
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 29, 1892.
bed-pUtta. The varions metbode uted to preTent this will
be considered for each individual machine. In one case,
meuured by Mr. A. S. Iybb,* in an Edison machine of this
type, the leasee was found to be aa high as 40 per cent.
MeBBTB. J. S UolmeB and Co. are the first firm on the
list of those who use this upright type of field. Their
dynamo is exhibited coupled direct to a Browett-Lindlev
engine for shiplighting on the single-wire system. It will
he seen in the list that this machine stands high both for
weight and floor-spaoe efficiency. The magnets are made
of wrought-iron forging lOin. diameter, which fit into cast-
iron pole-pieces and yoies. The special feature of the design
is that all the machining required is circular, and can be
done either in a lathe or a boring machine. The magnets
rest on zinc sole-plates, and the whole of the frame and
armature core is insulated from the bed to give special
safety against leakage. This is not absolutely necessary,
bat when the single-wire system is used, making the ship
the return, it is a wise precaution. The exciting coils are
of circular section, and hence take much less time to wind
to be seen working above its nominal output, and tlieu
runs cool and sparkless. The magnets are very similar to
those last described, and are mounted on a brass sole-plate.
The bearings are made adjustable by means of a spherical
surface on the bushes, u described before. In spite of the
use of the fourth bearing the floor-space efficiency is good,
and it will be seen that the useful induction in the ma^eti
is not high.
Mesan. Siemens Bros, and Ca have adopted this type
of field for all the direct-coupled dynamos, and exhibit a
number of them lighting different psjrts of the Exhibition.
The dynamo of largest output is shown on their stall, but it
is to be removed shortly to light an exhibition at Man-
chester. It has moat massive wrought-iron magnets, as
will be seen from the list, and the armature is of unusual
length. The armature winding is a speciality, there
being three distinct sets of conductors and commu-
tator segments, which are connected in parallel by the
brushes. The brusfaes are made of four ordinary copper
gauze brushes placed one above the other to give the
than coils of rectangular section ; also as a circle includes
the largest area of any figure having an equal perimeter,
a considerable saving of copper is effected. The bed-plate
has ft longitudinal gap in the centre to reduce the magnetic
leaki^e.
Tbe Newton Electrical Engineering Company have
removed their dynamo of this type, of which I have given
the particulars, on account of defects in the engine to
which it was coupled, and replaced it by a smaller ship-
lighting plant. The magnets were made of rectangular
wrought-iron slabs mounted on a high sole-plate of brass,
and ware compound wound. The armatnre was of the
Gramme ring type, but I understand that this firm will in
future use the drum winding and the Kapp connectors in
machines of this size. Although coupled direct, the second
dynamo bearing was retained, and this accounts for the
lower output per square foot of floor space.
Messrs. Ronald Scott and Co. also show a coupled plant
with this upright type of field magnets. It is being used
every evening to supply the current for the whole of the
searchlight displays carried out by this firm, and is often
'Stctrkai World. March 2, IS92.
necessary arc of contact and flexibility at the same time.
Tbe distorting effect of the armature must be very great
with such a large current- volumes and polar surfaces, but
the machines work wonderfully well. I was privilegeid to
inspect a similar armature which was run at the naval
Exhibition last year, and the commutator has not worn
perceptibly with the six months' work. All the machines
are direct coupled to Willans engines, and in every case the
second dynamo bearing has been deemed unnecessary.
It is especially worthy of note how in these dynamos tbe
output per weight falls with the increase of the total
output. This is due in a certain degree to the fact that
lower inductions are used in the larger machines, but
is certainly a point in favour of multipolar machines.
The bed-plate of these machines are specially designed to
prevent leakage of the lines of force. The magnets are
supported by gunmetal stays fixed on to the flat surface
of the bars. The lower parts of the poles then come in
a large gap in this bed-plate in such a position that the
tendency for the lines to leak into the bed-plate is much
reduced. These details can be seen in the adjoining block
of the large machine made by Siemens Bros, and do.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 29, 1892.
417
THE ALLOBMEINE COHPANTS ELECTBIC
TRAVELLING CRANE.
We hare already mentioned an application of electrical
tranamisaion of power by the Aligemeine Elektricitata
Qeullschaft of Berlin (Londoo boiue, Keya' Electric
Company, Limited) in an electrically-driven dock crane for
the harbooT qiuyi at Hamburg. Tnii inataUation wt are
has continued to woA without int«rrui)tion ever eince, in
spite of the unpropitious and wintry weather.
The crane, as ahown in the illuatration, ia conatnicted
apon the now univeraally-acknowledgad principle of the
traversing crane, and stands upon a traversing framewoik,
which ia aafficiently high and wide to permit the pasaage
under it of two linea of railway or waggon traffic, and it
tenninatea alongside a goods shed, bo aa to paas the goods
into and out of the latter. The dimensioos and points of
able to illustrate and describe in detail It is worthy of
attention, ea it may be looked upon as a further step
toward the development of a new field of great importance
to the extension of the transmission of electrical power.
The travelling crane, which ia capable of carrying about 2^
tona, was put in operation in November laat for loading
and discharging large shipa, and it is interesting to note,
with reference to the immediate prospect of the general
adoption of electrical power to hoisting machinery, that it
iU construction are aa followa : Safe load, 2,500 kg. (nearly
SOcwt); total height of lift, 13-75 m. fsay, 4Bft.) ; pro-
jection of the jib— -»«., distance from the centre of the
crane to the centre of the sling hook, 10'76 m. (36ft. 3in.> ;
vertical speed, 1 m. per second (197ft. par minute) ;
tmveraing speed, 2 m. per second (394ft per minute>
In the construction of the crane it was deemad adviaftUe
that wire rope instead of a chain ihould l!9_AMd(.4B4J
the winding gear spur or htiwwi •
418
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 29, 1892.
tortbe sake of silent running. The handling of the crane
wae to be aa far as possible like that of hydraulic or steam
Kwer cranes in which it is possible to raise or tower the
id during the traversing of the crane. The station also
providea the light for the harbour, and was erected some
time ago by the Allgemeine Elektricitata Gesellschaft
The current is broueht from the generating station
throui;h copper rods carried along the outside of the shed ;
cables pass through the hollow pivot of the crane and
lead 10 the controlling gear, Around this pivot, which
is seated in a turn-table, revolvee the whole winding and
ta«vening mechanism of the crane, protected by a cabin
with windows and mounted upon an iron platform. Each
■et of these gears is entirely distinct, each having its own
electromotor, and each being controlled by its own
particular lever.
The turning of the crane is effected by means of an
electromotor which drives one of the three guide-wheels
under the turn-table by worm gear. The worm spindle
can be stopped nt any moment by a powerful brake
actuated by the steering lever when this is in its midway
position, thus the turning motion is controlled with pre-
cision. To obviate all liability of damage to the spindles
from the swiftly- rotating armature, an elastic coupling, a
Bo-called " wire brush coupling," is used, which acts when
the brake is applied, permitting the coupled itarts to glide
past each other and allows the armature to come to rest
after a few revolutions. For a similar reason, the above-
mentioned guide-wheel, running on a smooth path, was
chosen in place of a toothed rail and spur wheel ; for
breakdowns were to be feaied with the latter through the
rapid turning of the long derrick. There is, however, always
a means afforded to the driver of modifying the speed of
the crane, inasmuch as the motor is series-wound. Further,
for this and the backward and forward traversing of the
crane generally, a special controlling arrangement is now
used simiUtr to that on the tramway motors on the A.E.G.
system.
The 40-b.p. electromotor of the hoisting f;ear is shunt-
wouud and connected, like the above, by a " wire brush
coupling " to a worm spindle, which has a powerful brake
actuated by the respective controlling lever, as in the former
case. The reversal of the direction of motion is also attained
electrically, by reversing the armature current; the starting
resistance is switched off simultaneously with the move-
ment of the controlling lever. This, in its mid position,
entirely cuts off the current from the motor. By pulling
the lever backwards the current flows first through the
field magnets, then in increasing quantity through the arma-
ture, while simultaneoualy the brake of the worm spindle
is released and the load begins to ascend. On the other
hand, if the lever is pushed over from the midway position
in the forward direction the manipulations are the same,
but before the armature receives its current the direction
of motion is changed, and the whole hoisting gear now runs
the opposite way, so that the load descends. The worm
now tends to drive the armature, but the shunt-wound
motor does not permit it to force it beyond its normal
speed, eo then the armature acts as an electric brake, and
■ends the current back into the conductor instead of con-
although in comparison with other methods (water or
■team) it shows a great saving — up to even 20 per cent.,
according to circumstances — a danc;erously rapid descent
of the load might take place in the event of a rupture of
the circuit through this brake. To provide against such an
accident, a second electric brake is furnished, which is equal
to any possible contingency. Alongside the hoisting drum
round which the wire rope is coiled, and connected to it, is
a brake wheel, the brake blocks of which are so weighted
that they would be permanently pressed against the br»ke
disc, if there were not on the opposite side a powerful
electromagnet to hold them back, so long as it is influenced
by the passage of the main current. Any interruption of
the main current makes this electromagnet inoperative,
permits thereby the brake blocks to fall against the disc,
and instantly grips the whole hoisting gear, thus preventing
further motion.
The advantages of this electric crane compared with
steam cranes are very considerable. Firstly, the com-
mercial efficiency of electric motors is on the whole higher
than that of the steam motors of equal power hitherto
empKiyed on the Hamburg quays. With all other motors
the efficiency falls off continnously from various causes,
such ae the difficulty of keeping pipe-joints tight. Tbe
current used by the electric motors remains always very
nesrly proportional to the demand of the moment, whereas
similar economy is impossible with the direct^ction steam
cranes hitherto in use, because the principle of expansion
is not brought to bear in these. Furthermore, a saving
(amounting sometimes to nearly 20 per cent.) is effected
through the return current when the toad is tsiken off the
crane, which is not obtainable in the case of steam power.
Again, with an electric system having proper ineulation, tbe
degree of efficiency may always be calculated beforehand,
while considerable losses through long steam-pipeSj especially
in winter, in consequence of the cooling in cylinders and
pipes in a steam system, are unavoidable. I>astly, a
properly constructed electric system requires few repairs,
which are always so great an item with steam cranes.
The crane has been working without a hitch for more
than four of the least propitious months of the year, atid
has now been taken over by the dock authorities. The
Hamburg harbour authorities may be congratulated on the
outcome of their enterprise, and the Allgemeine Company
upon the success assured by their skilful design and
construction.
SINOLE-BEDUCTION MOTORS.*
BY GEORGE K. WHEELER.
All practical street railway men appreciate tbe necessity
of having a motor that shall have the greatest possible
degree of self -protection from outside injury. This neces-
sity was evident by the number and severity of the atorma
of the last few years, and it has been tbe aim of electric
manufacturers to design a motor that would meet the
requirements of ordinary street railway service, and bo
constructed as to be perfectly protected within itself, and
to reduce the number of wearing parts, reduce the weight
of the motor, and construct a frame of such strength that
breakage would be impossible, and to provide a more
perfect magnetic circuit than that found in the double-
reduction motors. The important problems to be solved in
making a successful single-reduction motor are as follows :
1. Electrical and mechanical simplicity.
2. Slow speed and powerful torque.
3. Protection of field and armature from dust and water.
4. Accessibility of all parts of the motor so as to render
it easy for repairs and adjustment,
5. High commercial efficiency at all speeds and loads.
6. Keduction of weight per horse-power developed with a
view of liehting the load that must be carried at all times.
7. Small expense of maintenance.
There have been various types of single-reduction moton
placed upon the market during the past IS months, and I
must say that some of them have not fulfilled the abovo
requirements. It is my opinion that much better results
are obtained with a two-pole single-reduction motor than by
the four-pole, for the reason that it is much lighter, simpler
in construction, has a smaller commutator, half the number
of bobbins on armature, also half the number of bruaheB,
and is much more economical to maintain. One of the
leading electric manufacturers has produced a motor that I
think meets all the requirements for ordinary street rail-
way service ; this motor ia 15 h.p., weighs about 2,0001b.
complete, including gear, pinion, and gear case. Tbe motor
frame is constructed of two castings of steel, clamped
together by bolts at the front and back, the axle brasses
being held between the two parts. The armature bearings
are cast in one piece with the lower half of the frame, and
are provided with caps so that the linings may be
inspected or renewed without disturbing the other parl« of
tbe machine.
The frame is hinged together at the axle end, ao that
the upper hilf may ho r.iised if desired. The lower half o(
* Paper road before the Chicago Electric Clab, Manfa 27, ISSa.
THE ELECTRICAL EI^OINEER, APRIL 29, 1892.
419
frame is so constructed that it is perfectly waterproof up
to the centre line of armature and axle bearing. All the
metal in the frame forms a part of the magnetic circuit,
and dead- weight is thereby avoided. The armature is a
combination of the Gramme and Pacinotti type, and so
constructed that it is entirely iron-clad. The iron core is a
ring with projecting teeth solidly fastened to the shaft.
The coils are wound beneath the teeth and firmly held in
place by wooden wedges. It is not necessary with this
form of armature to use the mica, insulating paper, canvas,
and German silver bands. The winding is continuous, and
all joints are made by electric weldings, no solder being
used in any part of the armature. The winding is such
that there is no crossing of wires, and as it is l^low the
surface of iron core, it is protected from any mechanical
injury. This form of armature permits of much less
clearance between the armature and pole-pieces, and the
smaller air gap materially decreases the magnetic resistance
of the circuit. This certainly means less weight and less
heating of the field spool, and that a smaller motor will
perform more work on account of greater efficiency. The
field coil (there being but one) is placed at the top of the
motor, and in this position exerts upon the armature a
solenoidal pull, so proportioned that under normal load the
armature is lifted from its bearings.
I have bad an opportunity of inspecting a set of arma-
ture bearings that had been in use upon a motor of this
type for several months, and the tool marks in the bearings
had not been scored with the exception of a small spot on
the bottom and top of bearings, thus demonstrating that
the wear on brasses is reduced to a minimum. The arma-
ture pinion and axle gear are made of steel, of ample width
of face, and are run on an oil-tight case in order to ensure
free and continuous lubrication, and to exclude dust and
grit. As to the exact life of gear and pinion thus enclosed
I am unable to state accurately, but I know of single-reduc-
tion motors that have been in operation since May 1, so
enclosed and running in a light weight of grease, which up
to the present time do not show wear of more than i^^in.
It would certainly seem by this that the expense of main-
taining the gear and pinion for two motors per car could
not exceed lO.OOdols. per year.
The tendency of modern improvement in railway motors
is to diminish the gearing, and I do not think that any-
thing is to be gained over the double-reduction motor by
placing two sets of gears and pinions one on each side of a
single-reduction motor, as it not only increases the friction
losses, but adds an additional weight to the motor, and if
the motor frame and armature shaft are properly con-
structed, there is no liability of straining or breaking either
by reason of placing the gear and pinion on one side only.
It is stated by a number of competent electrical engineers
that the placing of one motor on a truck is ample for all
ordinary street car service. By experience I have found
that with a truck having but one motor attached to
one axle, that the wheels on the axle to which the motor
is attached do not break as quickly as the free wheel, and
flats are thus formed on the free wheel on this account ;
also that it is a difficult matter to ascend grades over 3 per
cent., and that it is next to an impossibility to operate a car
so equipped during the winter months. It is also advocated
that the proper method is to gear a single motor to both axles ,
this, in my opinion, is open to serious objections. In
gearing a single motor to two axles of a truck it is almost
impossible to keep wheels perfectly true — that is, one set
of wheels will perhaps wear more than the others on
account of the variation in the quality of the iron ; and as
soon as one set of wheels is in the slightest way different
from the others, a bad action takes place between the
driving gear and wheels, for the reason that one wheel is
trying to run faster than the others, which, of course,
naturally causes one set of wheels to be dragged along until
that distance has been overcome, and when the wheels
start anew, the gears are in a short time thrown out of
mesh with each other. It will be understood that
in order to make a successful gear driven by a
single motor, it is necessary that both sets of wheels
travel with exactlv the same speed over the rails,
and that the truck on which the motor is mounted
must be perfectly rigid so that the gear will at all times '
mesh with each other. In practice, this has been found
almost impossible, especially where heavy work is required,
and a large number of curves are to be found, and also
where the track is in bad condition, excepting possibly
when the wheels on the truck are perfectly new, and track
in good shape, and the curves very liberal, but it vrill be
found if one set of gearing is disconnected, that it will
require from 15 to 20 per cent, less power to operate. It
is for these reasons that I believe the best results are
obtainable by connecting a single motor to each axle of a
truck. It may be argued that there is twice the liability for the
trouble where two motors are used, but experience proves that
this is not exactly so, for by this method you obtain the
proper traction and benefit of all wheels, and in case of
extra load you have ample power to operate the car under
all conditions of service, and in case of injury to any part
of one motor, it can be disconnected and the car
operated until an opportunity offers to make the necessary
repairs.
A single-reduction motor should be so constructed as to
give the greatest possible distance between the bottom of
the motor and the top of rail. With the best form of
motors which have up to the present time been constructed,
the greatest distance obtainable between a 15h.p. motor
and top of rail is 4i^in. when placed on a wheel 30in. in
diameter. I strongly recommend the use of larger wheels,
either 33in. or 36in. in diameter. With a motor mounU'd
on 36in. wheels, this will give a clearance of 7^in., which
is more than ample to clear ordinary track obstructions,
and if the motor is thoroughly protected in its frame, it
will not be necessary to use motor pans, which have been
a necessary evil in connection with double-reduction motors.
It may be stated that a car equipped with 36in. wheels
require an excessive amount of current to operate, but this
is not a fact. On a test which I made more than a year
ago on a car equipped vrith 36in. wheels and a car equipped
with 30in. wheels, the same motor equipment and car of
same length and weight, operated over the same length
of road on the same day and by the same man, total
length of line being 16 miles, it was found that the car
equipped with 35in. wheels required about | h.p. more on
an average than the car equipped vrith 30in. wheels,
although the 36in. wheel car required more current in
starting and climbing grades, but it would run longer on
the level by momentum, and thus average up the current
consumption. With the present form of single-reduction
motors I think that the 33in. wheel is of ample size.
On tests which have been made with the best types of
single-reduction motors, they have been found to be from
8 to 10 per cent, more efficient than the double-reduction,
and are capable of attaining a much higher speed under
various conditions of service. On a recent test which I
made on an over-country road, being some 11^ miles iu
length, the car being 34ft. in length, and with 25 passen-
gers, total weight of car being 23,7001b., car equipped with
double trucks having two 25 h.p. single-reduction motors to
each car, the maximum speed attained was 32 miles per
hour, this car climbing grades of 4 or 5 per cent at the rate
of 17 miles per hour, and on a car 16ft. in length, equipped
with one 15-h.p. single-reduction motor, the maximum
speed attained was 25 miles per hour on the level, and the
car in climbing grades of 4 and 5 per cent, would not attain
a speed of over five miles per hour.
By the use of single-reduction motors the cost of main-
tenance and operation will be greatly reduced on any road
so equipped for the reason that the number of parts have
been greatly reduced from that of the double-reduction,
and its efficiency greatly increased. I am of the opinion
that the single-reduction has come to stay and will continue
to force its way to the front, and eventually supersede the
double-reduction motor with which the earlier roads were
equipped.
Electric Stampers. — The Chicago post office has four
electric stamping machines, each of which will stamp
28,000 letters an hour. The four machint-s perform the
work of 16 men, and stamp with very great clearnesa. The
United States Postal Department has Gontraote^ ''
these machines, which will b* «*
principal officei throughoot
1AA .
4^0
TflE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRlL 29, 189S.
THE
bLECTRICAL ENGINEER.
Published every Friday.
Priee Threepenee ; Post Free, Threepenee Halfpenny.
Editorial and Publishinfir Offlees :
189-140, SALISBURY COURT, FLEET STREET,
LONDON, E.C.
Notes 409
The Crystal Palaoe Exhibi-
tion 414
The All^emeine ComgBUiy's
Electric Travellinfi^ Crane 417
Binele-Reduction Motors ... 418
StPancras 420
South American Cable 421
The New Telephone Com-
pany 421
Correspondence 421
Combined Engine and
Dynamo 422
Notes on the Light of the
Electric Arc 426
A New System of Electrical
Distribation and Trans-
mission 423
Experiments with Alternate
Currents of High Poten-
tial and High Frequency 427
Institution of Civil Engi-
neers 429
Legal Intelligence 430
Companies' Meetings 430
New Companies Ri^istered 431
Business Notes 431
Provisional Patents, 1892 ... 432
Companies' Stock and Share
List 432
TO OORRE8POHDEHT8.
AU Bights Reserved. Secretaries and Managers of Companies
are invited to furnish notice of Meetings^ Issue of New
Shares^ InstaUaHans, Contracts^ and any informaOan
connected with Electrical Engineering which may he
interesting to our readers. Inventors are informed that
any account of their inventions submitted to us wiU
receive our best consideration.
ylU communications intended for the Editor should be addressed
C. H. W. Biggs, 139-140, Salisbury Court, Fleet Street,
London, E.C. Anonymous communications wiU not be
noticed.
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ST. PANCRAS.
The ceremony of Wednesday last, informal though
it may have been, is one deserving of more than
passing record. The vestries of London are not
usually regarded as progressive institutions ; in £EMst,
their days are said to be deservedly numbered
because bumbledom and backN^ardness are understood
to be sjmonymous. But many a dark cloud has a
silver lining, and it would often prove difficult for
those who criticise bumbledom to do the work better,
or to keep abreast of the times as well. Although
it may not seem so, the very fiftct that the
election of vestries claims little interest is one
of the greatest proofs of general efficiency.
Happy is the vestry that hath little history, but
there are times when vestries, as well as larger
constituencies, make history. St. Pancras is passing
through such a time with its lighting projects. Most
local authorities in and around London — all, in fact,
except St. Pancras — have been satisfied to allow,
more or less continuously, any private company to
experiment, and, if possible, to prove the advan-
tages of electric lighting. St. Pancras, on the other
hand — with a far-sighted policy according to our
opinion, with a temerity akin to rashness in the opinion
of many people — decided so far back as 1883 to keep
the lighting in its own hands. In 1883, however,
we in England had too little knowledge to satis-
factorily instal central stations. The authorities of
St. Pancras either knew of this ignorance or were
duly advised to wait — and wait they did — ^till know-
ledge came, and it was possible to ensure success.
Proceeding under competent advice, that of Prof.
Henry Bobinson, the St. Pancras authorities ulti-
mately proceeded with their first station, which has
been satisfactorily completed, and, what is more to
the point, its whole output is engaged. It was
to commemorate this fact that the Electric Lighting
Committee invited the members of the Vestry and
other friends to visit and examine the station on
Wednesday.
It is, of course, out of place here to describe
the station, but we may say that it has been
designed by Prof. Bobinson to supply current
for 10,000 incandescent 16-c.p. lamps for interior
lighting, and ninety arc lamps of ten amperes for
street lighting. The central station is entered from
Stanhope-street, N.W., and occupies part of a
freehold site of 21,000 square feet, acquired for
JB10,000 by the Vestry. The buildings consist of
an engine-house 106ft. by 26ft., a boiler-house
40ft. by 14ft. 6in., and various smaller rooms
for testing, stores, etc., and an underground water-
tank to hold 170,000 gallons. The five boilers are
of the Babcock- Wilcox type, and supply steam to
eleven Willans-Bobinson triple-expansion engines.
The engines are coupled direct toEapp dynamos, built
by Johnson and Phillips. The dynamos are six-pole
continuous-current machines. Nine are wound for an
output of 680 amperes, at pressures varying from
112 to 130 volts. Official trials at Thames Ditton with
the combined apparatus showed a steam consumption
of 18'651b.per electric horse-power per hour. The official
trials of the boilers showed an evaporation of 9'7471b.
of water per pound of coal, so that under the oonditiona
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 29, 1692.
421
existing when these triftiB were macie, the plant
combination — i.e., the combination of boiler, engine,
and dynamo — gave an electrical horse-power, or 746
watts, for a consnmption of l'91341b. of coal per faour.
trnder similar conditions, 1,000 watt-hourB — the
Board of Trade unit — means theconenmption of 2'61b.
of coal. The arc lamps used are of the Brockie-Pell
type, and, together with the standards on which
they are placed, were supplied by Messrs. Johnson
and Phillips. The sapply of current fi«m the
station commenced on November 9th l^t year,
BO that within six months of the opening
the full capacity of the station baa been reached.
This result ia highly satisfactory. The con-
tinued existence of thia station will help to
aolve many problems, not the least of which is
whether local authorities should become their own
producers or relegate their powers to private indivi-
duals or companies. Prof. Robinson has it in his
bands to influence them one way or the other to a
large extent. The details of capital expenditure, of
maintenance, and of income should be kept with
the most rigid accuracy. In the heart of London,
where initial coet is excessive, where coal, water,
labour, and stores are as costly as in most places,
if the production of electrical energy under the
auspices of a local authority is satisfactory, no doubt
many such authorities will follow the example.
Great praise is justly due to Mr. E. Gibb, the clerk
to the Vestry.for the indefatigable labours he has gone
through to bring about a consummation of this work,
and he, with the Lighting Committee of tbe'Veatry,
must be congratulated upon the success which has
so far attended their efforts.
SOUTH AMERICAN CABLE.
Probably the most satisfactory investment that
has for some time past been offered to investors is
that of the South American Cable Company, whose
prospectus appears in another column. It has
become a well-recognised fact that cable property is
one of the most stable that can be obtained. North
America is connected with Europe by a large number
of cables, bat South America has hitherto been inade-
quately connected. Although troubles, political and
otherwiae, somewhat tend to keep back the progress
of South America, there is not the slightest doubt
but that the total volume of trade ia a continually
increasing one, and necessitates greater telegraphic
facilities. This new cable will, so to speak, tap a
new field. It will, besides connecting Europe, give
a direct line from Africa. It will be oonatracted at
a comparatively little cost. The capital is not
watered like that of some of the older companies,
so that a moderate return will give a fair dividend.
The cable is to be laid by a firm of the greatest
experience, and under engineers of the greatest
ability. With the exception of the Pacific scheme,
this is one of the links in the cable system which
remains to be completed. It will be seen that
several Governments are more or less interested in
this cable, so that the estimated revenue given in
the prospectus is not likely to be overstated, bnt
more probably will be exceeded.
THE NEW TELEPHONE COMPANY.
The New Telephone Company, with offices at
110, Cannon-street, is actively pushing its canvass
for subscribers. As is well known, this company
advocates the twin-wire system, and from experience
gained at Manchester maintains that most of the
evils besetting the system aanow applied in London
are thereby avoided. Both from a scientific and
from a practical point of view the twin-wire system
is that which approaches most nearly to perfection.
The success of this company will gladden the hearts
of those interested in traction work, for instead
of one company catering for public patronage
fighting another company also catering for public
patronage, the various interests will not clash to
anything like the same extent as do those of the
existing telephone companies and the electric trac-
tion companies in and around London. We shall
now see what the National Company will do in the
face of a competition which gives a better article at
a lower price. The new company will take the first
5,000 connections at £12. 12b. per annum, on a one,
two, or three years' agreement, and no subscriber
will be asked to pay anything till 3,000 instruments
are actually in connection through the exchange.
After this number of instruments are connected, the
subscriptions will be payable in advance for the
ensuing year.
CORRESPONDENCE.
" Odi mui'i word li do nui'i wotd,
JuUm ntadi that bath bi hiud.''
INCREASING THE SUPPLY.
SiK, — Under the above heading, in your issue of the
15th itiBt, you point oat that the reluctance of would-be
coDsumerB of electric eneif^y in residential districta to have
their bouses wired and connected to the mains of electric
supply companiei in London, is mainly due to " the coat of
outlay for the wiring and fittings"; that many hold their
homes on short leases, and that often leases contain reatric-
tive clauses with respect to alteration of gas mains, etc., in
favour of the landlord ; and that " the electric light
fittings, as usually laid in a house, come under the heading
of fixtures, and u such therefore become the property <S
the landlord on the expiry of the lease. "
I am interested in the formation of an electric light
company, and have been brought face to face with these
very difficulties. It is a smalt but busy country town we
purpose lighting, and the tradesmen and other inhabitanU
are anxious to have the electric light. These, almost
without exception, have incurred great expense in gas
fittings, etc., and sevanl have done so quite recently,
therefore they hesitate to incur the expense of further
outlay on wiring and fittings for electric light, although
they are anxious to have the light, and the fact that the
landlord's property would be increased in value at the
tenant's expense makes them the more reluctant to ineur
the necessary outlay.
To meet this difficulty I propose to wire the houses and
buainesB premieea free of cost to the easterner, charging a
rental to cover interest on the outlay, depreciation, and a
small profit to the electric light company. When the
company has been repaid the first cost, plus interest, etc.,
I then propose to reduce the rental to a nominal sum, to
cover depreciation or maintenance, etc., and a small charge
to uphold the company's claim to tJie property, which
would really amount to profit. By this means coniumen
will be encouraged to eoma on and take the eoopaor's
current, the company lookinii to < -' t
mainly for its profit. "
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 29, 1892.
favour anongBt tbe inhabitante, who havs largely promised
to become consumers and to take sharea, also, in the
coinpeny.
Now, of courae, the queation naturally arises, In what
manner will the interests of the company be protected
S;ainst the landlord t The reply ia, By Section 25 of the
lectric Lighting Act, 1882, which atatea :
" Where any electric lines, metera, accamulatora, fittings,
works, or apparatus belonging to the undertakers are
placed in or upon any premiaei not being in the posaeeaion
of the undertucera for the purpose of supplying electricity
under thia Act, or any license, order, or special Act, such
electric lines, meters, accumulatora, fittings, works or appa-
ratus shall not be subject to diatreas or to the landlord's
remedy for rent of the premiaea where the aame may be,
nor to be taken in execution under any process of a court
of law or equity, or any proceedings in bankruptcy againat
the person in whose pasEe«aion the same may be."
Obviously, from the above the wiring and fittinga, if
carried out by the company in the manner I auggest.
underUkera, aa it would be in tbe intereet of the
undertakers to allow the same to remain intact to secure
the custom of the incoming tenant, who, of course, would
be charged a rental for the use of the same. Thua, such a
system would aarve the interests alike of landlord, tenant,
and undertaker, and it would moat unquestionably conduce
to a rapid growth of the electric lighting industry.
Thos. H. Williams, A.M.I.C.K
London, S.W., April 21, 1892.
COHBINBD ENGINE AND DYNAMO.
We illustrate herewith the combined engine and dynamo
plant constructed by Ernest Scott and Mountain, Limited,
and apecially designed to conform to Admiralty require-
ments for use on board warahipa or in placea where apace ia
limited. Tbe eneinea for all sizea of plant, with the excep.
tion of the smallest, are of the compound type, and are
would remain the absolute property of the company or
undertakers, and the landlord nf the premises would have
no lien or right over tbem, and the company would be free
to remove the same at any time in accordance with the
company's contract with the consumer. This, of course,
applies only to auch caaes aa do not contain the restrictive
ckuses, above referred to, in the leases.
When the lease is ao drawn aa to require the permission
of tbe landlord to alter the gas fittings and it is not worth
tbe while of the tenant to trouble in the matter, because of
the approaching expiry of the lease, and at the same time
the tenant is desirous of having tbe electric light, and would
become a consumer if the house were wired and connected
to the company 'a mains, in such case it might be worth the
undertaker's while to effect an understanding with the
landlord to wire the houae whereby tJie fittinga, etc., would
remain the property of the undertakera. The landlord
would, in the majority of caaea, aee that the letting value
of bis bouse would be enhanced by having it fitted for
electric light, and that he would have aome guarantee
that his bouse would not be torn to pieces through
'he fittings, etc., remaining the property of ue
il Engine *nd Drnvuu.
constructed for a working pressure of 1601b. to SOOlb. per
square inch, but they are capable of giving the full normal
output at a pressure of 1001b, per square inch. The
cylinders are of cast iron, lapped with sheet steel, and
fitted with all necessary drain-cocks, relief valves, and
indicator ptuga. Steam is admitted to both cylinders by
a double piston valve placed between the two cylindera and
worked by one eccentric and rod from the crankshaft.
The crankshafts, piston rods, eccentric -rods, valve
spindles, and front columns are of steel ; all bearinss are
ad justable and of extra length, lined with white metal, and
special lubricating arrangementa are provided, ao that the
engine is capable of running continuously without atten-
tion. The governor ia placed upon tbe crankshaft, and so
arranged that the apeed can he adjusted whilst running.
The dynamos have been designed to meet Admiralty
requirements as regards heating, output, and apeed ; they
are compound wound and aelf-regulating. The field magnets
are of the aofteat wrought iron, carefully annealed ; the mag-
net bobbins are wound in separate coses, so that they can be
readily removed. The armatures are of Scott and Moantain'e
special type, enabling them to be readily repaired in eueof
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER. APRIL 29, 1892.
423
En^nea.
Oatput in
E.M.F.
Amperes.
Speed.
Approii-
l^pe.
Dittaeter
DUmeter
weiKht.
of H.P.
Of L.P.
Stroke-
Length.
Width.
Height.
cyUnder.
cylinder.
cwt.
3,600
60
60
450
4
7
5
6 0
2 9
4 9
10
2
8,000
80
100
350
6
9
SI
6 9
3 0
5 0
28
3
16.000
80
200
325
«1
12^
7 «
3 3
6 3
66
4
24,000
80
300
7i
7
8 3
3 8
5 8
80
S
52,000
80
400
8i
15
8
9 0
4 0
6 0
100
accident, and providing perfect ventilation,
ie of hard-drawn copper se(
The commuta-
tora are made of hard-drawn copper seementB, insulated
with mica, and mounted upon gunmetal Blaeves, ao that the
commutator can be removed bodily from the dynamo
apindle if neccBBary. The bniahboldere are of gunmetal,
with the firms improved hold-off catch and tension regulator.
ComblnBil F glne and Dfnudo— End View
The engines and dynamos are mounted upon combination
bed-plates, and coupled together as illustrated a tacho-
meter being provided to that the speed can be watched and
regulated. The accompanying table gives details of the
combined plants.
A NEW SYSTEM OF ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION
AND TRANSMISSION.*
nV RANKIN KENNEDY.
The art of distributing electrical energy for general eon
sumption over cities and towns is at the present time
undergoing great developments, but cannot be said to have
arrived at that stage at which electrical engineers can agree
upon one system or common practice. Hence, in practice,
ve have many diverse systems. In some towns electrical
energy is distributed by what is known as the low-pressure
continuous-current system ; in other towns the system
is that known as the alternating-current high-pressure
system ; in some towns both systems are in use.
To-night I wish to bring before your notice a new
■yitem, which has been called the duplex system, in which
the electrical energy is distributed by two currents altera
nating in different phases — a system which supplies elec-
trical energy for electromotive power ; for electric lighting,
heating, electrotyping, and any other purposes for which
electricity is used.
In any comprehensive scheme for distributing electrical
energy for sale in towns or cities, the following conditiona
govern the supply : First, the supply to consumers must be
absolutely safe; second, the supply should be available at
all times, at any place in the city or town, and for any
purpose to which electricity can be applied ; third, the
generating machinery and plant must be all together at
one place, under one control ; fourth, the supply sboald be
available at the most distant districts of the city or town.
Now, in an electrical distribution works there are three
departments : First, the generating department, comprising
buildings, boilers, engines, dynamo-electric generators and
regulators : here the electricity may be said to be manu-
factured out of the raw material — coal ; second, the distri-
buting department, comprising main conducting wires, and
branch wires for carrying and distributing the electricity
to the consumers ; third, the consuming department, com-
; piising electric lamps, electromotors, and other appliances
in which the energy of the electricity is expended or con-
verted. We need not enter into any general considera-
tions concemingtho generating department ; hub, regarding
the distributing department, it may be explainwi that
therein lies the difference between the various systems, and
I shall here for a few minutes briefly touch upon the laws
relating to conductors of electricity. The units in which
electricity is measured are — the volt the unit of pressure,
the ampere the unit of current, the ohm the unit of resist-
ance. The number of amperes a wire of a given sectional
area can carry is limited ; the more amperes passed through
a wire the more electrical energy is lost in heating the wire,
and this loss rises rapidly as we increase the current, and
it also rises directly ai the length of the wire.
Kow, although the amount of current which can be
carried in any wire is limited, yet the electrical energy
which any wire can carry is unlimited, except by practical
difficulties in the way of perfect insulation. The energy
conveyed by a wire is equal to the current, C, multiplied
by the pressure, E, and insulation alone limits the pressure;
hence, with a very small wire, a very great amount of
electrical energy can be carried by a very small current if
the pressure is made very high. The amount of enei^y
carried by a current is equal to E x C = W, or electrical
energy. Now, suppose we have a wire of one tenth of a
square inch in area, and one mile lopg, its resistance O'Sohm*,
to carry 100 amperes current; if we multiply the resistance
of this wire by the current strength, G x 100 = 50 volts,
that gives us the pressure required to push the 100 amperes
through this mite of wire — in fact, it is the difference of
pressure between the two ends of the wire, a fall of 60
volts. The wire is joined to a generating dynamo at one
end, and to 200^100-volt lamps at the other end half a
mile away. Now, to get 100 volts at the lamps, we want
(100 V-hG0='15O), 100 for the lamps, and 60 for one mile
of wire, so that we see that one-third of the pressure is lost
in the wire alone in this case. This example shows clearly
the loss of pressure in long conductors, and how serious the
loss is with low pressures, being a third of the whole
pressure. But these aie not all the difficulties in
working at low pressures. Suppose there are consumers
at different parts of the wire, some nearer the dynamo and
some farther away, it is obvious they shall each get i
supply at diffeient presanrei and kt varuble pnaiorei.
Now, allow me to take uo(k^ ' ''^ vmman
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 29, 1892.
ftt the df nuno waa 150 volte, nt (he lunps 100 volte ; now,
nippose we make the presaure &t the dynamo 10 timea
greater, in thia case we would have 1,500 volte preaaure at
the dynamo end. By keepiDg the current the aaroe, 100
amperes, the loaa of preaaure in the wirea would not be
greater than it waa whan the dynamo preaaure was only
150 volte — that ia, it would atill be 50 volte — we would
therefore find 1,450 volte at the distant end. Now, 100
amperes at a preaaure of 1,460 volte would give energy
aomcient to supply 2,900-50-watt incandescent lampa, and
the loss in transmission ia now only 50 volte - 3 per cent
of the whole. To pat the mattet briefly, with low pressure
of 160 volte we can transmit power for 200 lamps to half-
mile diatance with a loss of 30 per cent.; with a moderately
high preaaure of 1,600 volte we can transmit power for 3,900
lamps, half-mile diatent, with a loas of only 3 per cent.,
using the same copper conductora in each case. If we work
at low preasurea, we muat either have big losses in the wires
or thiok wires. Theae facta and figurea are, I admit, quite
schoolboy knowledge nowadays ; but I wish to ground my
But the simple alternating-current svatema do not entirely
meet the requiiemente. A simple alternating corrent
cannot be converted into continuous current*, for which
there ia always a demand, except by an ezpenaive and
difficult process. It cannot charge accumulators, and it
faaa not hitherto been very aucceuful in driving electro-
motors.
At the present moment the atete of the art of electrical
diatribution is thia. We know that at high preaaures very
great amounte of electrical energy can be transinitted over
long distencea with no serious loeaea. We know that
alternating currents can be tranaformed from high to low
preaaure, or from low to high pressure, just as we require
them. A continuous current cannot be ao transformed
without moving machinery of an objectionable nature ;
therefore the opera tiooa of continuoua currente are
confined to low-pressure work. The simple altematins'
current systems now in uae are quite satisfactory in
so far aa they aupply electricity for lighting purpose!
only, but if only lighting; can be successfully cturied on by
arguments on the simplest facta, and theae aimple facte and
flgores govern the whole queation of high v. low preaaure
eiectiical distribution.
Now, to aave weight in the copper main conductors, it is
obvious high pressures muat be used ; but for safety to the
conaumer and for working lampa in single parallel the
pressure is restricted to 100 volte, so that if we use high
messure in the maina we muat reduce the pressures before
delivery to the consumer. This ia a moat importent point,
and on it turns the whole question — continuoua c. alter-
nating currente. The continuous-current aystema are
worked at a low preaaure, for the simple reason that if at a
high preaaure it ia a v?ry difficult and ezpenaive procesa to
reduce to any other preaaure ; whereaa with alternating
currente the pleasures can be cheaply, easily, and with
certainty reduced, increased, or varied as you please. Hence
alternating-current systems are always on the high-pressure
system, and the high pressure ia reduced to any other
pressure by a simple apparatus called a tranaformer.
For these reasons the high-preaaure alternating-current
Bvatem baa been adopted to a much larger extent, all over
toe world, tbma the low-^resaure continue ua-current system.
them, then it is obvious their sphere of usefnineaa ia very
limited. Electricity in continuoua currente can be used for
every purpose to which electricity can be applied, but it
cannot eaaily be transformed in preaaure. In thia new
system, which I shall endeavour to make clearly nnder^
stood in thia paper, the object ia to combine the four
esaentials for a univeraally useful and extensive scheme of
electrical distribution. The four essentials are: Fint, high
Eressure to carry the electricity long distences without
taaea ; second, alternating currente easily and aafely tntos-
formed ; third, low preasure for distribution of elecbicity
to consumers ; fourth, continuoua -current supply derived
from the high-pressure distribution main wires.
These are the features of this new system. Referring to
Fig. 1, a sketeh map of Glasgow, the central or generating
plant ia auppoaed to be stetioned down about YorkhilL
Sub-stations for the supply to the various districte of the
city are marked ofi", as at Partick, City, St. Bollox,
Bridgeton, Oovan, and Tradeston. All theae sub-atationa
draw their supplies of electricity through main wiree
at high preasure. The electricity la then reduced to low
pressure, and distributed to consumer either as a ooo-
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 29, 1892.
425
tiDuouB current or aa an altanuting cnrrent The high-
preaaore feeders for the sub-atations are three wires
carrving the electricity in two alternating currents. It ie
to ia borne in mind that only theae feedara are high
pressure — on this system the sub-stationa aupply low
preaanre only, except to large consumeis, these being
treated aa aeparate eub-stationa.
Now, to enable ua at the aub-atationa to derive low-
pressure alternating currents, or low-preaaure continuous
cunenta, from the nigh-preeaure feeders, it is necessary to
use two-phase alternating currents — currenta differing in
phase by a quarter of a period of alternation. Theae can
b« combined to form a simple alternating current, and they
can be converted into a practically continuous current.
The two oorrents are rectified into unidirection currents,
and these can be used together or aeparately, either aa one
continuous current or one alternating current. Befemng
to Fig. 2, the curved lines show us the various types of
alternating currents. A is a simple alternating current ;
B, same rectified ; C E, two currenta in quadrature ; D,
resultant line ; C E, same rectified ; D, reaultant. The
frequency of an alternating current ia the number of ^^^„
complete waves, per second.
The traneformer for alternating currents ia a very simple
arrangement, which, besides converting the current from
high to low pressure, effectually euta off the consumera from
all connection with the bigh-preaaure system, as shown by
experiment The rectifying commutators are driven by a
synchronising alternating-current motor, now before me,
and which is shown in Fig. i. N S, in sectional rear, is
an iron-clad alternator, having all the N poles at one side
and all the S poles at the other side, all excited by one
coil. The armature has two circuits, connected to a
starting commutator, a, with a ring contact, b, joined to
the junction of the two armature circuits, e, d, respectively,
with hruahes as shown in the diagram. It is a reversed
alternator. Now the starting up of synchronoua motors
has always been a difficulty. In tnia machine thia difficulty
haa been met by using a commutator for starting up to
syDchro&ism. This commutator is then cut out of the
circuit altogether. This motor has great power, is highly
efficient, and governs perfectly ; the commutator flashes
somewhat at starting, but only for a few moments.
It may be here explained how the two alternating
current* are. got which are in use to-night There are 30
E.P.S. accumulators downstairs ; the continuous current
from these is converted into two alternating currents in
quadrature phase by means of an electromotor — which
motor is a simple two-pole ahunt-wound dynamo reversed.
The alternating currents are collected from four rings on
the motor ahaft. Two of these rings are connected to dia-
metrically opposite points of the commutator of the motor,
and the other two are connected to two diametrically oppo-
site points of the commutator at right angles to the first
twa This arrangement converts the battery current into
two alternating currents in quadrature. The highest
frequency "'-.^ got Iw this arrangement ia only about 16
per second ; the E.M.F. is about 60 volts. Under these
conditions the synchronous motor is sometimes a little
difficult to start, as it was designed for a frequency I
of 80 ^^^. per second, and 100 volts pressure. The
transformer is simply an electromagnet, with two or
more windings, and acta by induction. Theae trans-
formers, G, D, in Fig. 3, receive the high - pressure
alternating-currents at the sub-stations from high-prosaure
wirea, and reduce it to low pressure — about 100 volts or
thereby. The two currenta are then passed through two
rectifying commutators, which can be used for charging
accumulators and other purposes, and thereby are converted
into two unidirection pulsating currents, a, b {see Fig. 3).
We shall now start the motor. On the end of the motor
where the pulley should be placed, two commutators are
fitted, such as are ehown in Fig. 3, for the purpose of
rectifying the two quadrature currents, and combining
them into one continuous current. (Experiment made
showing this continuous current driving a small continuous-
current electromotor). We can by thia meana obtain con-
cinuoua currents from the high-pressure supply of alter-
nating currents sent out to the sub-stations.
(To be amlinued.)
NOTES ON THE LIGHT OF THE ELECTRIC
AHC*
BY ALEXANDER FELHAM TROTTER, B.A., USICBXR.
lb is apparent) to intelliffont obaerven, and wall known to all
el«otrio liftht enginMra, t&at the ligbt of an arc lamp is nob
emitted aniforml; in all direcbiona. Photometrtoal measorementa
of arcs are |;eDerally eipresBed by a JP**'"' orre, the Ibdd^ of the
radius vector repreaenting the candle-poweT. Althongb a good,
deal at work has been spent on this sabjeot, the real meanlne of
the shape o! these curves lias not attracted much attention, ^ey
all exhibit the aame characterisbioa, and it is easy to notiOB two
distinct types of variation. One variation is found with aros
emplo^iDg a large cnrrent, and oonsista in the emission of a small
qnanbity of light In a direction above the boriEon, the curve rising
a little above the horizontal axis. Another type of variation is the
narrowing of the whole curve, and the concentration of a large
proportion of the light ab an angle of about 40deg. or fiOdeg. wlui
the vertical.
A rather complicated treatment of the subject has b<Nm made
by M. RouMeaa-f- with the object of finding a formula for the dis-
tribution of the light. His treatment appears to he emplrioal,
and having arrived at a formnU, be does not appear to have reoog-
nised tbe practical meaning which it contains.
It has been assumed by many persone that the hollowing of the
crater of the positive carbon tends in some unexplained manner to
ooncentrate and throw the light downwards. It is evident that
the lower, or negative, carbon intercepta a good deal of the liebt ;
bat there speculation appears to have stopped. A little considera-
tion will show that the enect is precisely and identically the same
OB though the end of tho positive carbon were flat. No tilting of
on incandescent or other luminous surface can make it brighter ;
and, on the other hand, if it is covered with a thin, imparteotly
transparent layer, as in the case of the atmosphsre of the ann, the
edge will appear lees brieht than the middle of the disc. The
quantity of light emitted ny an inoaDdeeoent disc in any dlTeatlOQ
is proportional to the amount of surface visible from that direc-
tion. This is to say, candle-power varies, then, as the cosine of
the inclination.
Cosines plotted as a polar curve eive a circle passing through
the pole. This theorem is not to be found in mathematical works,
being much boo easy and simple for those students who have got
so far as polar curves. The candle-power of the crater of an arc
lamp, should, then, if plotted as a polar carve, coincide with part
of a circle. Any deviation from the circle must have some cause.
Two such deviations are observed, and their canses are easily
recognised.
An ideal continuous- current arc— in fact, any good one with
first-rate carbons—bas a uniform horimntsl crater, and this gives
no light in a horizontal direction, though a little may come ircm
the hot sides of the carbon, especially if it is carrying a ratbw
loree current. No brightly incandescent surface is seen. The
pomted negative carbon is seen in profile, and some light is
emitted by it. From what Prof, 8. P, Thompeon and others
have told us of the physics of the am, it is very probable
that the seat of the dissipation of enerey is primarily at the
surface of the crater. The negative carbon only becomes hot
by being cooked in front of the crater. It is wasted, probably,
by mere combustion ; and even this waste is reduoed by the depo-
sition, under some circumstances, of carbon transferred from the
positive pole. The waste of tbs positive carbon is uodoubUdly
due to volatilisatioo. Prof, J. J. Thomson and others have shown
that electrolysis ia not neoassorily confined to bodies in the liqntd
state, and it seems probable that the volaCilisabion of carbon at
the crater, and Ite deposition, under oerUin conditions, on the
negative carbon, is closely allied to eteotrolysfs, the positive pole
behaving as an anode, both in its wasting and in the fall of volte
4S6
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 29, 1892.
at ita anr&oe. The abiorpUan of energy appMn to be bwoldld.
A oertain qaontitj of beat ia reqnirod to [Hwluce the change of
■tete from solid to vapoar. and a oertain differenoe of potmtial
mnit b« reqnired to produce the elecbrolvsio.
Id oda 01 the very intereating articlea by M. Palai* in which be
abatracta and oomfnlea the work of onmeroaa oontinental wrilen,
ha at*taa, witbont ^viog hu authority, tbat fl5 per cent, of the
ligbt ot an aro ii emitted by the poiitive carbon, 10 per cent, by
the aegative carbon, and 6 per cent, by the flame of the arc It
Memi {^obkble that in moet caeea thQ propbrtion of light emitted
by the positive carbon ii even greater than thie. The word
" arc " irill lie used in this paper as an abbreviation for arc tamp,
and will not be need -to denote the flune -whioh plays between the
oarbone. The word *' crater " will be used to denote that portion
of the pontiTB carbon wbiob is at the biftheet degree of inoandee-
eanoa. This portion is generally well defined, uie colour being
nnlform. ^M word "orater" will not be need to signify k
hollowing of the carbon.
Fiu. 2.
During the Antwerp Exhibition in 1SS6, M. Wybanw-f' made
a nnmbw of photometric meaeurements of arcs by different makers.
The full curve in Fig. 1 represents the mean of a large number of
observations made, no less than 26 different arcs having been
tested. The cosine of 60deg. being one half . the area of the
crater eeen from tbie direotion la one-half of that of the fall circle ;
the candle-power ie one-half of that emitted by the crater ; and the
length of the radiiH v^gUr correapondiog to 60d^. may be taken
as the radius of tkm dMe. The flght due to the negative carbon
is clearly shown m kn exoese abo*e the oircalar onrve ; tAutre is,
indeed, nothing else to which it can be due, except the red-hot
walls of the crater.
Pio. 3.
FlO. 4.
At about 60deg. the curve of candle-power b^na to fell off,
and this is due to nothing e)M than the shadow of the lower
carbon which intercepts more and more of the light aa we paae to
smaller angles, until. If the carbons be of tlie same diameter, no
light is thrown in a vertical direction.
In considering the real meaning of the latter part of the curve,
the anthor drew a nnmber of views of a pair of imaginary carbons,
projected at different angles. The elliptical ares of the crater in
eaeh view wae calculated, and he found that these areas, plotted
as radii of a polar curve, gave a curve closely resembling the
well-known candle-power cnrve of the arc. It foUmn that, if tliis
be proved to be true by experiment, the candle-power par aqoare
niilUmetre of the crater is conatant. The anthor oommnnioatad
this result to Prof. 3. P. Thompeon, and aakad if he wonld aea
whether actual experiment woald confirm it.
A serlee of very interesting experimente have been oarriad out
at Finabury Technical Collwe by Mr. C. F. Hl^ina, aanior
student. A Planet lamp, taking eight or nine ampere*, WM fiirt
employed, and the firtt experiment! riuiwed that the l^bt was
nndoabtedly proportional to the area of Uie oraMr. . £i «d«r
to carry out the experiments with greater aoooraoy, a larger
lamp wse required, and Messrs. Johnson and Phillip* kindly last
a Brockie-Pefl lamp, taking 26 amperes. The following apparatus.
Fig. 2. was constructed by Mr, Eiggina at the workshaps ol
Finsbury Collet, for the purpoea of projecting an image of Uie
arc : An arm ujuatable on a DorizoDtM axle, ud provided witfa a
clamping nut ana gradated era, oarriee * leiw and a mirror set at
an angle of 4SdeK. with the direotion of the ray of light Ulii«
on it, and reflecting the ray in a direotion parallal with Uie axis
of the radial arm. An image of the arc may thna be projactad
on a screen. Aa the radial arm is moved the image tuma round.
but this does not interfere with the obaervations. An Ayrton-
Perry photometer, slightly modified, wae used to measure the
light with a standard candle, and this was done by removing
the projecting lens, and allowing the reflected beam to fall on the
mirror of the photometor. When the lent waa replaced, for the
purpose of projeoling the image, the mirror of chs photometer
wu removed, the reat of the photometer remaining nndistnrbed.
Tlie image was received on a eheet of drawing-peiper, and waa
amplified about 14 times. The outline of the inoiuidescent crater
I inclination.
I In the first experiments the absorption of the two mirror* waa
I neglected, and the reeults are not, therefore, to be taken aacandle-
I power. The mirror on the radial arm was of plaLinisad glass,
I since an ordinaiy mirror bavb a double image. The reflecting
I power was not good, though the image was clear. The areas were
also measured to an arbitrary scale at first. Figs. 3 and 4 ^ve
polar curves of two sets of observations. The photometer readings
. are represented by circles, and the areas by triangle*. A general
coincidence of both sete of observations with the walllnown
. curve ie evident. Figs. 5 and Sore reproductions of the tnudoBa.
It is rather difGcutt in many cases to eatimato the ralauoo
between two polar curves by mere inspection, partly, parh^aa,
I because they are so seldom used in practice. Two different onrvw
; may be drawn, the one through the photometer readinge, and the
other through the areas of crater ; but owing to the dlffienltv
of arriving at occuraU rwults on account of chanse* in the langtb
I of Che ^c, which greatly afiTect the inner part ol UM polar onrve,
I and the occasional indlatinctoeea of outline of theoNter, the error*
I of either set of readings ore probably aa great a* timr d^Mtrture
' from the curve drawn freely among the two eats.
j Useful as it is to plot aa a polar car^'e olMervatloni which reloU
to measurements taken at different angnlor directions, tlw nla-
I tion between the two sete of readings may b* examined moca
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 29, 1892.
427
eaaily whon they are plotted with rectangDlu- co-ordinateB,
Fig. 7. A atraitcht line catting the axis at 100 c.p. ieetns
to fit the resDlta. Thii may be explained by the lieht which ia
emitted by the rod-hot and glowing parts of the carbon. These
were not iDcludsd in the meaiaremeDt of area ; the true crater
only was meaanred. The author has been unable to carry out
any complete experimanta od the photometry of arcs ; the present
paper is only a collection of notes on the subject, which is
trebled qualitatively, and not quantitatively. The measuramenta,
for various reuonB, were relative, and attempta were mode on
one oooaaion only to take direct readings in candle-power. The
image of the crater at OOdeg. was projected and traiad, and
meaanred by a planimeter. The mean of several fairly ooncordant
readings was 30'8 square inches- The diameter of the image of
tbe carbon was 17in. Ita actual diameter was O'Bin. The imt^e
was therefore mofrniSed ^'3 ttmee. The real area of the crater
in each case, l>eing measured directly from the arc without reSec
tion. They were fairly concordant, and gave a mean of l,0tt5
candles. At the maximum poaition (about 46deg.] this would
Jive about 1,400 candles. It follows, therefore, that the crater gave
2,600 c.p. per square inch, or 64 c.p. per square millimetre. The
amperes were 26, and volte 61.
It IB OS impoBsibte to raise carbon above the degree of incan-
deecenoe of the crater of the arc as it is to raise wat«r above
bailing point or ice above melting point,* No anbatancehaa yet
being suggested for " improving arc lamp carbons which ia fees
I'olatile than carbon. Even the core of cored carbons, while it
serves a very uaefal purpose in steadying the arc, is lesa brilliant
than the rest of the crater. If a tower temperatore than the
normal Incandescence be found at the crater, it is because tbe
positive carbon is too large for the current. Under these circum-
stances the arc generally flickers irregularly, and a highly incan-
descent patch travels about over the surface of the crater.
The large amount of licht intercepted by the n^ative carbon
raises theouaation. What becomes of it! It is evident that it
strikes Che lower carbon, and is probably converted into heat ; but
^
/
/
/
/
i
/
f
/
/
-
-
' —
•J.-
__
.-1
-J
KiG. 7.
Bince only about \[> per cent, of the whole radiation of an arc is in
the form of light.t most of tiio " cooking " of the lower carbon ip
done by mere beat.
It is not difficult to reconittruct the shape of Che carbons which
must have given rise to the curve given m Fie I, but to do so i^
nothing more than a geometrical exerciite, and leads to no useful
result. A similar relation obtains between the candie-powei
curve of an alternating- current arc and the shape of its carbona,
but the use of alternating arcs is not common : the light ia not,
for outdoor purposes, thrown in a useful direction ; it is difficult
to prevent the arc from flickering round the carbons, and they
give so much trouble from other causes that they are seldom worth
Two other kinds of arc are the lighthouse and the seorcb-ltghc.
A very elaborate set of experimenCa was carried out in 187a at
Chatham, under the direction of the Royal Engineers Committee,
by Major R. Y. Armstronjr, Lieutenant G. Bowker, Lieutenant V.
Cordew, Lieutenant L. Itarwin, Lieutenant G. A. Carr, assisted
by Lieutenant K. White and Captain Abney. Ten dynamos, six
lamps, six projectors, and five kinds of carbons were tested :
photometric measu reman Cs were made, and photographs were
taken both facing the crater and at right angles to it. From the
photographs the area of the crater could be determined. The
candle-power per square inch seemed to vary In an indefinite way
between 76,000 and 2.), 000 candles per square inch.
The photographs taken from the side give a very good idea of
the position of the carbons and the small obstruction of Che nega-
tive carbon when a search-light is properly arranged. Finding
that so complete an examination of search . lights has been made,
the author has not proceeded with the experiments which he had
Intended to carry out on this kind of lamp. He had some difficulty
in finding this report, which was intended for Government use
only. He was allowed by Major R. Ruck to examine a copy
at the Horse Guards, and on making application through him to
the Inspector -General of Fortifications the report was allowed to
be mode public. Instead of attempting to ahatraot this very
interesting research, the author bos presented the copy to tbe
library of the Institution.
{To be cotttiwietl.)
EXPERIMENTS WITH ALTEENATE CDRBEMTS OF
HIGH POTENTIAL AND HIGH FREQUENCY.*
( Coiitiniiei/ from pngt 4OS. I
When two wires, attached to the terminals of the coil, are set at
the proper distance, the streams between them may be so intense
au to produce aoontinuous luminous sheet. To show this pheno-
menon I have here two circles, C and c [Fig. 10), of rather stout
wire, one being about 80 centimetres and the other 30 centimetres
in diameter. To each of the terminaU of Che coil I attach one <^
the circles. The supporting wires are so bent that the circlee may
be placed on the same plane, coinciding as nearly as possible.
When the light in Che roam is turned off and the coil set to work,
you see the whole space between Che wires uniformly filled with
streams, forming a luminous disc, which could be seen from a con-
siderable distance, such is the intensity of the streams. The outer
circle could have been mui^b larger than the present one ; in fact,
with this coil I have used much larger circles, and I have been
able to produce a strongly luminous sheet, covering an area of
more than one square metre, which is a remarkable effect with this
very small coil. To av<»d uncertainty, the circle bos been ttdcen
Fic. 10.— Lumii
The
smaller, and the area is now al>out 043 square 1
frequency of the vibration and the quickness of s
Che sparks between tbe knotis aflect to a marked degree the
appearaoce of tbe streams. When the fre([uency is \ery tow the '
air gives way in more or less the same manner as by a steady ■
difference of potential, and the streams consists of disCinct threai^'
generally mingled with thin sparks, which probably oorrespond
to Che BuccesiivB discharges occurring between the knobs. But
when tbe frequency is extremely high, and the arc of Che discharge
produces a I'ery loud hut smooth sound — showing both that
oscillation takes place and that the sparks succeed each other with
great rapidity — Chen the luminous streams formed are perfectly
uniform. To reach this result very small ceils and jars of BmaH
capacity should be used. I take two tubes of thick Bohemian
glass, aboot five centimetres in diameter and '20 centimetres long.
In each of the tubes 1 slip a primary of very thick copper wire.
On the top of each Cube I wind a secondary of much Chinner gutta-
percha-covered wire. The two secondaries I connect in series, the
primaries preforahty in multiple arc. The tubes are then placed
in a large glass vessel, at a aistance of 10 to 15 centimetres from
each ouier, on insulating aupports, and the vessel is filled with
boded-out oil, the oil reaching about an inch above the tubes.
* Lecture delivered before the Institution of Electrical
Engineers ut the Royal Institution, on Wednesday evening,
February ;), IHlti. From the Joiirital of the Institution of
Electrical Engineers.
438
THE ELECTRICAt EKGlNEEfe, APRIL 29, 1892.
The fraa enda of the secondary an lifted oat of the oil and
placed parallel M each other at adiBtance of about 10 centimebrea.
The ends which are acraped ahould be dipped in the oil. Two
four-pint jars joined io series may be used to discharge through
the primary. Whan the necessary adjuatments in the IcngCh and
distance of the wires above the oil and in the arc of discharge are
made, a luminous sheet is produced between the wires which is
perfecClf smooth and textureless, like the ordinary discharge
through a moderately exhausted tube.
I Dave purposely dwelt upon this apparently inaignificaot
experiment, in trials of this kind the exjierimentor arrives at
the sturUing conclusion that to pass ordinary luminous dia-
chargea through eases no particular degree of exhaustion is
needed, but that the gas may be at ordinary or even greater
pressure. To accomplish this a very high frequency is essential ;
k high potential is likewise required, but this is a merely inci-
dental necessity. These experiments teach us that in endea-
voaring to discover novel methods of producing light by the
agitation of atoms, or molecules of a gas, we need not limit our
research to the vacuum tube, but may look forward quite seri-
ously to the possibility of obtaining the liKhb effects without the
use of any vessel whatever with air at ordinary pressure. Such
discharges of very high frequency, which render luminous the air
at ordinary pressurea, we have probably often occasion to witness
in nature- I have no doubt that if, as many believe, the aurora
borealis is produced by sudden cosmic disturbances, such as
eruptions at the sun's surface, which set the electrostatic charge of
the earth in an extremely rapid vibration, the red glow observed is
not confined to the upper rarefied strata of the air, but the
discharge traverses, by/«ason of|it« very high ^frequency, also the
FlO- 11.— Phantom Streams.
dense atmosphere in the form oE a glow, such as we ordinarily
produce in a slightly exhausted tube. If the fretguency were very
uw, or even more so, if the charge were not at all vibrating, the
dense air would break down as in a lightning discharge. Indica-
tioDH of such breaking down of the lower dense strata of the air
have been repeatedly observed at the occurrence of this marvellous
fihenomeuon ; but if it does occur, it can only be attributed to the
indamental disturbances, which are few in number, for the vibra-
tion produced by them would t>e far too rapid to allow a disruptive
break. It is the original and irr^ular impulses which atfcct
the instruments. The a u per imposed vibrations probably pass
annoticed. When an ordinary low frec|uency discharge is uassed
Uirough moderately rarefied air, the air assumes a purplish hue.
If by some means or other we increase the intensity of the
molecular, or atomic, vibration, the gas changes to a white colour.
A similar change occurs at ordinary pressurCB with electric
impulses of very high frequency. If the molecules of the air
around a wire are moderately agitated, the brush formed is reddish
or violet ; if the vibration is rendered sufficiently intense, the
streams become white. We may accomplish this in various ways.
In the experiment before shown with the two wires across the
room, I have endeavourc<1 to secure the result by pushing to a
high value both the frequency and potential ; in the experiment
with the thin wires glued on the rubber plate, I have concentrated
the action upon a very small surface — in other words, Ihavo worked
with a great electric density.
A most curious form of discbarge is observed with such a coil
when the frequency and potential are pushed to the extreme
limit. To perform the experiment, every part of the coil should
be heavily insulated, and only two small spheres— or bett«r still,
two sharp-edged metal discs {il il. Fig. 1 1 1 of no more than a few
ceatimotrvs in diameter —should bo exposed t« the air. The coil
here used is Immersed in oil, and the ends of the woondary reaching
lut of the oil are covered with an air-tight cover of hard rubber of
great thickness. All cracks, it there are any, should be carefully
stopped up, so that l.he brush discharge cannot form anywhere
exceut on the small spheres or plates which are exposed to t^e air._
In this case, since there are no large plai
tremely rapid vibration. The potential may bt -__ ^- - . „.
' r as the experimenter judges proper, the rate of change of t£e
ary current. With a coil not widely diSariiig irom the
int, it is best to connect the two primaries in multiple are ;
X the secondary should have a much greater number of tnma,
the primaries shoufd preferably be used in series, as otherwise the
.bration might be too fast for the secondary. It occurs under
leee conditions that misty white streams break forth from the
edges of the disc and spread out phantomlike into space. With
coil, when fairly well produced, they are about 26 to 30
[metres long. When the hand is held against them, no senea-
is produced, and a spark, causing a shock, jumpa from the
inal only upon the hand being brought much nearer. If the
oscillation of the primary current is rendered intermittent by some
' other, there is a corresponding throbbiDK of the atreama,
the hand or other conducting object may be brought in
still greater proximity to the terminal without a spark being caused
to jump. Among the many beautiful phenomena which maybe
produced with such a coil, I have here selected only those which
appear to possess some features of novelty, and lead us to some
conclusions of interest. One will not find it at all difficult tD
produce in the laboratory by means of it many other phenomena
which appeal to the eye even more than these here shown, bat
present no particular feature of novelty.
'^ Early experimenters describe the diaplay of sparks prodoced
by an ordinary large induction coil upon an insulating plate
separating the terminals. Quite recently Siemens periormed
periments in which line effects were obtained, which
^n by many with interest. No doubt large coils, even if
operated with currents of low frequencies, are capable of pro-
ducing beautiful effects. But the largest coil ever made could
not, by far, equal the magnificent display of streams and sparks
obtained from such a disruptive discharge coil when properly
adjusted. To give an itlea, a coil such as tbe present one will
cover easily a plate of one metre in diameter completely with
the streams. The best way to perform such experiments is to
take a very thin rubber or a glass plate and glue on one side
of it a narrow ring of tinfoil of very large diameter, and on the
Other a circular washer, the centre of the latter coinciding with
that of the rin(;, and tbe surfaces of both beinu preferably equal,
so as to keep the coil well balanced. The washer and ring should
be connocied to the terminals by heavily insulated thin wires.
It is easy in observing the effect of the capacity to produce a
sheet of uniform atreama. or a fine network of thin silvery
threads, or a moss of loud brilliant sparks, which cover completely
the plate.
Since 1 have advanced tbe idea of the conversion by means of
the disruptive discharge, in my paper before the American
Institute of Electrical Engineers at the b^inning of the poet
year, the interest excited in it has been considerable. It affords
us a means for producing any potentials by the aid of inexpensive
coils operated from ordinary systems of distribution, and— what ia
perhaps more appreciated — it enables us to convert currenta of
any frequency into currents of any other lower or higher
frequency. But its chief value will perhaps be found in the help
which it will afford us in tbe investigations of tbe phenomena of
phosphorescence, which a disruptive discharge coil is capable of
exciting in innumerable cases where ordinary coils, even the
largest, wouhl utterly fail. Conr<idering its probable usee for
many practical pur|joees. and its (lOBsible introduction into labor*-
toriea for scientific research, a few additional remarks as to the
construction of such a coil will, perhaps, not be found super-
fluous. It is, of course, absolutely necessary to employ in such
a coil wires provided with the beat insulation. Goed ooils may
be produced by employing wires covered with several layers at
cotton, boiling the coil a long time in pure wax, and coaling
under moderate pressure. The advantage of such a coil U that
it can be easily handled, but itcannot probably give a« satisfactory
results OS a coil immersed in pure oil. Besides, it seems that the
presence of a targe body of wax affects the coil disadvantageously,
whereas this does not seem to be the case with oil. Perhapa it is
because the dielectric losses in the liiiuid are smaller. I hare
tried at first silk covered and cotton-covered wires with oil
immersion, but I have been gradually led to use guttapercha-
covered wires, which proved moat satisfactory. lluttaperch*
inaulation ad<ls. of courHC, to the capacity of tbo coil, and this,
especially if tbe coil bo largo, is a great disadvantage when
extreme freiiuencies are desired ; but, on the other hand, gutta-
percha will withstand much more than an equal thickness of oil,
and this advantage should be secured at any price. Unce the coil
has been immersed, it should never be taken out of the oil for
more tlian a few hours, else the guttapercha will crack ap and
the coil will not be worth half as much as before. Guttapercha is
probably slowly attacked by the oil, but after an immsreion of
eight to nine months I have found no ill.effecte. I have obtained
in commerce two kinds of guttapercha wire : in one the insulation
sticks tightly to the metal, in the other it does not. Unless a special
method is followed to expel all air, it is much safer to use the fint
kind. I wind the coil within an oil tank so that all interstices are
filled up with the oil. Between the layers I use cloth boiled out
thoroughly in oil, calculating the thick nessaccording to the differe
of potential between the turns. There seems nob to be a very ei
whatever kind of oil is used ; I use paraffin t "
dilen
."^Breat
TfiE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 29, 1892.
429
To exdade more perfectly the air, an excellent way to proceed,
and easily practicable with small coils, is the following : Constmct
a box of hard wood of very thick boards which have been for a long
time boiled in oil. The boards should be so joined as to safely
withstand the external air pressure. The coil bein? placed and
fastened in position within the box, the Utter is closed with a
strong lid, and covered with closely-fitting metal sheet, the joints
of which are soldered very carefully. On the top two small holes
are drilled, passing through the metal sheet and the wood, and in
these holes two small glass tubes are inserted and the joints made
air-tight. One of the tubes is connected to a vacuum pump, and
the other with a vessel containing a sufficient quantity of boiled-
out oil. The latter tube has a very small hole at the bottom, and
is provided with a stop-cock. W hen a fairly good vacuum has
been obtained, the stop-cock is opened and the oil slowly fed in.
Proceeding in this manner, it is impossible that any big bubbles,
which are the principal danger, should remain between the turns.
The air is most completely excluded, probably better than by
boiling out, which, however, when guttapercha- coated wires are
used, is not practicable. For the primaries I use ordinary line
wire with a tnick cotton coatine. Strands of very thin insulated
wires properly interlaced would, of course, be the best to employ
for the primaries, but they are not to be had. In an experimental
coil the size of the wires is not of great importance. In the coil
here used theprimary is No. 12, and the secondary No. 24 Brown
and Sharpe W.G. wire ; but the sections may be varied consider-
ably ; it would only imply different adjustments, the results
aimed at would not be materially affected.
I have dwelt at some length upon the various forms of brush
discharge because, in studying them, we not only observe pheno-
mena which please our eye, but also afford us food for thought,
and lead us to conclusions of practical importance. In the use of
alternating currents of very high tension, not too much precaution
can be taken to prevent the brush discharge. In a mam convey-
ing such currents, in an induction coil or transformer, or in a
condenser, the brush discharge is a source of great danger to the
insulation. In a condenser especially the gaseous matter must be
most carefully expelled, for m it the charged surfaces are near
each other, and if the potentials are high, just as sure as a weight
will fall if let go, so the insulation will give way if a single gaseous
bubble of some size be present, whereas, if all gaseous matter were
carefully excluded, the condenser would safely withstand a much
higher difference of potential. A main conveying alternating
currents of very high tension may be injured merely by a blow-
hole or smaU crack m the insulation, the more so as a blow-hole
is apt to contain gas at low pressure ; and as it appears almost
impossible to completely obviate such little imperfections, I am
led to believe that m our future distributions of electrical energy
by currents of very high tension, liquid insulation will be used.
The cost is a gieat drawback, but if we employ an oil as an
insulator, the distributions of electrical energy with something
like 100,000 volts, and even more, become, at least with higher
frequencies, so easy that they could be hardly called engineering
feats. With oil insulation and alternate- current motors trans-
missions of power can be effected with safety j and upon an
industrial basis, at distances of as much as a thousand miles.
A peculiar propeity of oils, and liquid insulation in general,
when subjected to rapidly changing electric stresses, is to disperse
any gaseous bubbles which may be present, and diffuse them
through its mass, generally long before any injurious break can
occur. This feature may be easily observed with an ordinary
induction coil by taking the primary out, plugging up the end of
the tube upon which the secondary is wound, and filling it with
some fairly transparent insulator, such as paraffin oil. A primary
of a diameter something like six millimetres smaller than the inside
of the tube may be inserted in the oil. When the coil is set to
work, one may see, looking from the top through the oil, many
luminous points— air bubbles which are caught by inserting the
primary, and which are rendered luminous in consequence of the
violent bombardment. The occluded air, by its impact against the
oil, heats it ; the oil begins to circulate, carrying some of the air
along with it, until the bubbles are dispersed and the luminous
points disappear. In this manner, unless large bubbles are
occluded in such way that circulation is rendered impossible, a
dama^ng break is averted, the only effect bein^ a moderate
warming up of the oil. If, instead of the liquid, a solid insulation,
no matter now thick, were used, a breaking through and injury of
the apparatus would be inevitable.
The exclusion of gaseous matter from any apparatus in which
the dielectric is subjected to more or less rapidly changing electric
forces is, however, not only desirable in order to avoid a possible
injury of the apparatus, but also on account of economy. In a
condenser, for instance, as long as only a solid or only a liquid
dielectric is used, the loss is small ; but if a gas under ordinary or
small pressure be present the loss may be very great. Whatever
the nature of the force acting in the dielectric may be, it seems
that in a solid or liquid the molecular displacement produced by
the force is small : hence the product of force and displacement is
insi^ificant, unless the force be very great ; but in a Ras the
displacement, and therefore this product, is considerable ; the
molecules are free to move, they reach high speeds, and the
energy of their impact is lost in heat or otherwise. If the gas be
strongly compressed, the displacement due to the force is made
smaller, and tne losses are reduced.
In most of the succeeding experiments I prefer, chiefly on
account of the regular and positive action, to employ the alter-
nator before referred to. This is one of the several machines
constructed by me for the purposes of these investigations. It
has 384 |X)le projectiouH, and is capable of giving currents of a
freiiuency of about 10,000 per second. This machine has been
illustrated and briefly described in my first paper before tho
American Institute of Electrical Engineers, May 20th, 1891,
to which I have already referred. A more detailed descrip-
tion, sufficient to enable any engineer to build a similar
machine, will be found in several electrical journals of that
period. The induction coils operated from the machine are rather
small, containing from 5,000 to 15,000 turns in the secondary.
They are immersed in boiled-out linseed oil, contained in wooden
boxes covered with zinc sheet. I have found it advantageous to
reverse the usual position of the wires, and to wind, in these coils,
the primaries on the top ; this allowing the use of a much bigger
primary, which, of course, reduces the danger of overheating, and
increases the output of the coil. I make the primary on eacn side
at least one centimetre shorter than the secondary, to prevent the
breaking through on the ends, which would surely occur unless
the insulation on the top of the secondary be very thick, and this,
of course, would be disadvantageous. When the primary is inade
movable, which is necessary in some experiments, and many times
convenient for the purposes of adjustment, I cover the secondary
with wax, and turn it off in a lathe to a diameter slightly smaller
than the inside of the primary coil. The latter I proviae with a
handle reaching out of the oil, which serves to shift it in any
position along tne secondary.
I will now venture to make, in regard to the general manipula-
tion of induction coils, a few observations bearing upon points
which have not been fully appreciated in earlier experiments
with such coils, and are even now often overlooked. The
secondary of the coil possesses usually such a high self-induc-
tion that the current through the wire is inappreciable, and
may be so even when the terminals are joined by a conductor
of small resistance. If capacity is added to the terminals, the
self-induction is counteracted, and a stronger current is made
to flow through the secondary, though its terminals are insulated
from each other. To one entirely unacquainted with the
properties of alternating currents nothing will look more puzzling.
This feature was illustrated in the experiment performed at
the beginning with the top plates of wire gauze attached to
the terminals and the rubber plate. When the plates of wire
gauze were dose together, and a small arc passed between
them, the arc prevented a strong current to pass through
the secondary, because it did away with the capacity on tne
terminals ; when the rubber plate was inserted between, the
capacity of the condenser formea counteracted the 9elf-induction
of the secondary, a stronger current passed now, the coil performed
more work, and the discharge was by far more powerful. The
first thing, then, in operating the induction coil is to combine
capacity with the secondary, to overcome the self-induction. If
the freauency and potentials are very high, gaseous matter should
be carefully kept away froui the charged surfaces. If Leyden jars
are used, they should be immersed in oil, as otherwise considerable
dissipation may occur if the jars are greatly strained. When high
frequencies are used, it is of equal importance to combine a con-
denser with the primary. One may use a condenser connected to
the ends of the primary or to the terminals of the alternator, but
the latter is not to be recommended, as the machine might be
injured. The best way is, undoubtedly, to use the condenser in
series with the primary and with the alternator, and to adjust its
capacity so as to annul the self-induction of both the latter. The
condenser should be adjustable by very small steps, and for a finer
adjustment a small oil condenser with movable plates may be used
conveniently.
(To be conlinutd.)
INSTITUTION OF CIVIL ENGINEERS.
ELECTRICAL MEASURING INSTRUMENTS.
At the ordinary meeting on Tuesday, the 26th of April, when
the chair was occupied by the president, Mr. George Berkley, the
paper read was on "Ueotrical Measnriiig Instmmenta." by
Hr. James Swinlmme.
The rapid development of electric lighting had called into exist-
ence a number of measuring instruments aesig^ned expressly for
the use of electrical engineers. This paper consisted, mainly, of a
critical description of these instruments.
Although voltmeters and ampere-meters generally differed in
their windings only, it was advisable to design voltmeters to
read clearly over a small part of their scale, while ampere-
meters should be equally legible throughout the whole of their
ranges. All voltmeters and ampere-meters should be direct-
reading ; turning milled heads and coefficients were not admis-
sible in modem electric light instruments. Voltmeters should
Absorb as little power as possible, as every watt taken was
equal to the interest on £l. Horizontal dials and suspension
fibres or compass- points were to be avoided. The simplest
soft-iron instruments contained a small needle inside a coil.
The needle tended to arrange itself in the axis of the coil, the
torque being opposed by gravity or springs. Instruments of
this type had been made by Miller, Crompton, Statter, Lord
Kelvin, and others. In Cunynghame's form the solenoid had
an iron cora In the Schuckert, Widsall, Evershed, and Hart-
mann and Braun instruments, the soft-iron needle moved
laterally into a stronger field, the field being modified by
suitable fixed iron cores. The attraction of a solenoid upon a
small soft-iron core was utilised in volt and ampere meters by
Lord Kelvin, Kohlrausch, and l>olivoI>obrowolsky, and Ayrton
and Perry. The inventors last named employed their twiBtof*
430
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 29, 189^.
strip to give iBTjge readings. Messrs. Crompton and Kapp in
England, and Elma Thomson in America, had made instruments
whose readings depended on the relative intensity of field pro-
duced by solenoids with and without iron cores.
Permanent magnets fell into undeserved disrepute a few years
ago ; but it was now more generally realised that they could be
safely employed in instruments of the highest class. Garjpentier
and Ayrton and Perry used permanent magnets for providing a
constant controlling field in 1881, but Lord Kelvin's lamp-counter
was one of the few survivors of this class. Instruments with
permanent needles were made by Paterson and Cooper, Latimer
Clark, Muirhead, and Co., and Siemens. The moving coil was
used in Weston's instruments alone, though the Deprez-D'Arsonval
galvanometer might also be called an electric light instrument.
The Weber dynamometer survived in the Siemens dynamometer
and in Lord Kelvin's balances. The Cardew and one form of
the Ayrton and Perry instrument de()ehded ou the expansion
of a fine platinum iridium wire heated by the current to be
measured.
Electrostatic voltmeters were made by Lord Kelvin and Swin-
burne and Co.
The meter was by far the most important instrument, as the
whole profit or loss of a station depended on its accuracy. The
accuracy of a meter, within 1 per cent, or so, should be guaranteed,
as a very small error made a large variation in the profits of a
station. The chief faults in commercial meters, besides inaccuracy,
were : (1) Not starting until a large load was on ; (2) absorbing
power in shunt circuits ; (3) absorbing power in the main circuit
and reducing the light of the lamps ; (4) getting out of order
through the use of mercury ; (5) needing frequent winding up ;
(6) wearing out through rapid movement of working parts ; (7)
stopping on account of insects or damp ; (8) costliness.
Chemical meters have been used by Edison abroad, and by
Wright in this country.
The majority of meters consisted of motors driving brakes of
various kinds. The laws governing the brakes commonly used
were not very well understood, and some forms of motor-meter
appeared to be inaccurate. Faure first used one-turn motor-
meters, and he had been followed by Ferranti, Edison, Borel,
Miller, Teague, Porry, Weston, Hookham, Hartmann and Braun,
and many others. The Ferranti meter for direct currents had
a permanent field and an armature in the main circuit. Fluid
friction regulated the speed. The Hookham meter had a per-
manent field magnet and an armature of several turns with a
double commutator dipping into mercury, and a Foucau It-current
brake. The Hartmann and Braun had a one-turn armature,
arranged as in Faraday's disc experiment. The Perry meter
had a one-turn, or disc armature, completely submerged in
mercury, and a very efficient Foucault-current brake. Joule
meters, or wattmeters as they were often called, had the dis-
advantage of wasting power, and this might outweigh any
benefits due to extra accuracy. In the Thomson -Houston meter
the field was produced by coils in the main circuit, while the
armature of high resistance was in shunt. Magnetic Foucault-
current brakes were employed. The Hummel meter was on the
same principle, but had an electromagnetic brake which converted
it into a coulomb-meter. The Shallenberger alternating-current
meter had a small double-current motor, the rotation of which was
retarded by an air-brake. The Wright meter depended on a
different form of alternating-current motor. The Ayrton and
Perry clock meter had been put into commercial shape by Aron,
and was one of the most successful types. Two clocks were
connected by differential gear. One was made to keep bad time,
gaining or losing according to the current. The differential gear
registered the difference cauned.
A numerous class of meter consisted of a wattmeter or ampere-
meter with a clock and feeling mechanism. The various
mechanical methods of carrying out tliis idea were numberless,
and did not need sepi&rate description. Meters of this class had
been brought out by the Brush Company, Brillie, Cauderay,
Fraser, Hartmann and Braun, Lord Kelvin, Siemens, and many
others.
The only form of heat-engine meter that had been developed
was that due to Forbes. The main current heated a small coil of
wire, and the draught of hot air produced rotated a small pro-
peller windmill, ana this worked the index train.
The discussion upon the above communication was commenced,
and it was stated that it would be continued on Tuesday, May 3—
when, in consequence of other arrangements, it must be concluded,
and when there will be a ballot for three members, 29 associate
members, and one associate.
The remaining ordinary meetings on May 10, 17, and 24 will be
occupied with the reading and discussion of papers on " The
Distribution and Measurement of Illumination," oy Mr. Alex. P.
Trotter, and on **The Measurement of High Temperatures," by
Prof. W. C. Roberts-Austen. The annual general meeting will
fall this year on Tuesday, the 31st of May, when the report of
the council on the state of the institution will be presented, and
the election of the council and officers for the ensuing year will
take place.
LEGAL INTELLIGENCE.
Manoh— ter. — Messrs. Maunsell, Mercier, and Co., electrical,
gas, and sanitary engineers, having been appointed district repre-
sentatives of the Wenham Company, Limited, electrical, gas, and
ventilating engineers, of London, have taken the premises at 5.
I>eanBgate, Manchester, lately occupied as the Manchester dep6t
of that firm. Messrs. Maunsell, Mercier, and Co. have also taken
over the gas, sanitary, and colliery stores departments of the late
lira of Mercier, Ck>rlett, Aad Co,, of Wigan and Bolton.
ENGLISH AND SCOTTISH INVESTMENT COMPANY
V. BRUNTON.
The Fire at West DraytoiL
This case, which involved some difficult and intricate points,
was argued some time since before Mr. Justice Charles, when
judgment was reserved.
Mr. R. T. Reid, Q.C.. Mr. Tyrrell T. Paine, and Mr. Sargent
appeared for the plaintiffs ; Mr. A. Cohen, Q.C., Mr. Bremner, and
Mr. Le Fanu were counsel for the defendant.
Judgment was given in this case on Tuesday last. It ought to
be stated that it was really a question in connection with theEleotrical
Engineering Corporation, which carried on business in premises at
West Drayton. Our readers will recollect that in 1891 a fire oocurred
on these premises, and as they were insured, the insurance office had
a certain amount to pay. The company, which already had a
debenture issue of a stringent character, borrowed monev on
account of the amount to oe so paid. The debenture holden
claimed that the insurance should come to them, while the lenders
of the money upon special security claimed it.
Hr. Justice Cliarlea gave judgment in favour of the lenders of
the money.
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
ELMORE'S FRENCH PATENT COPPER DEPOSITING
COMPANY, LIMITED.
The first annual ordinary general meeting of the shareholdera
of this Company was held on Friday last at Winchester House,
Old Broad-street, Sir Richard J. Meade, K.C.S.I. (the chairman),
presiding.
The Secretary (Mr. J. Shurmur) read the notice convening the
meeting and the report was taken as read.
The Chairman said : Gentlemen, I am sorry to say that I am
compelled to ask your forbearance this morning, as, having a bad
cold, my voice is so broken that I really cannot depend on speaking
for five minutes together, so that I propose to ask the deputy
chairman of the Company, Major Jones, to read to you theremarlu
which I have drawn up for submission to-day. I will only say that
Major Jones is a gentleman who was for many years employed in
one of the most responsible departments under Messrs. Arm-
strong, and that he has a special knowledge of manufactures of
every description.
Major Cliarles Jonea then read the Chairman's speech as
follows : Gentlemen,— I have much pleasure in appearing before
you to-day to give you the results of our stewardship up to the
end of December last, and to congratulate ^ou on the result and
future prospects of the ix)licy which was maugurated by yoor
Directors, and approved by you, at the statutory general meeting —
viz. , that having satisfied ourselves as to the quality of the pro-
ducts made by the Elmore process, and the facility with which the
same could be manufactured, we should follow no hesitating
policy, but at once take the bold step of laying out our works on
a scale commensurate with the importance of tne industry. I am
pleased to be able to state to you the success that this policy has
attained. To-day we are in the unique position of having magnifi-
cent works already started — second to none in the world for the
manufacture of this class of product complete and capable of turn-
ing out 300 tons a month, whilst with comparatively little outlay,
and in a short space of time, we should be able to nearly double this
output. Had it not been for the broad policy so strongly urged by
M. Secrecan, who would not accept the general managership of the
Company in France unless the works were commenced on what he
calls a small, but what we call a large scale — viz., for an output of
300 tons a month. Had it not been for M. Secr^tan's assurance that
ho was abundantly satisfied that the quality, cost, and facility of
manufacture of articles under the Elmore process would turn out
what he is now able to urove, we should not, at so early a stage,
have taken the responsibility— which, I may say, gentlemen, has
until recently been a very great responsibility — viz., that of
embarking your money in so large a factory, until we had actually
been at work on a commercial scale. The responsibility we have
undertaken is, however, amply compensated for by the satis-
faction that we feel to-day in the successful carrying out of
our policy. With regard to the accounts submitted with the
Directors report, which is in your hands, these duly deal with
capital expenditure, and there is little to say in reference to them,
as they explain themselves. Some of the items will not appear in
future years, whilst with regard to the administration cnargee,
these have naturally been heavy, as they include all charges under
this head in connection with the erection of the works, which will
not occur again. The expenditure in the experimental workshop
at Paris has been most usefully applied to the training of engineers
and workmen in the Elmore process while the factory was being
erected, so as to ensure their being fit for their duties on its
completion, and also to the working out all special require-
ments of the French trade, which hua enabled us to deliver the
goods in demand directly we commenced manufacturing. With
regard to the proposed increase of capital, your Directors recom-
mend that sucn increase shall consist of 100,000 shares of £2 eeol^
of which 60,000 shall be now issued as preference ahares entiUed
to 10 per cent, dividend. The terms of this new Inoe will give to
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 29, 1892.
431
existing shoreholdera the right to Biibecribe for two-thirds of the
Amount. iE they desire to do ao. Shareholders who may wieh for a
larger allotment th&nbhey would be entitled to under the proportion
this wouldnllowthem~viz., twoehoree for every five they now hold^
■c»n apply for a larj^r number. Some of our ahareholdBre, whilst
confrratulating u8 upon our pontion, oeam to have misunder-
etood our proposal. 1 may therefore Btate that it is true that no
more than 60,000 preference ahares should now be isaued, and
that no further capital should be issued until we have proved by
the actual earning of profits that the employment of thu capital
is advinable. You ma.y be sure that your Directors would not
issue this capital nnlesa its employment would increase the
dividends that you were going to receive ; sjid posflibly, when wo
come U) issue the capital, we may be able to issue it od consider-
ably better terms than those now offered . Wehave been criticised by
«omo who say that the terms for the preference shnreholdera ore far
toogood. All thiitwesay to this is. that, with thoexooptionof a small
amount of capital which we consider it adi isable to issue to those
outside the body of shareholders, we shall allot to each shareholder
Ilia exact proportion, and ut the same time, those who would be
desirous of having a larger allotment can apply, and their applica-
tions will bo dwelt with together with applications from the
general public ; you may be sure that we shall well look after the
inteieetfl of those shareholders who may so apply, M. Secri'tan
shows that the additional profit that would result from the
employment of such further capital would be very large, and
out of all proportion to the additional outlay. His estimates are
bo^ed on eiperience ; but it should bo explained that they mostly
represent the profits to be made on the cheapest articles of every-
day consumption. It has been deemed advisable, in order to meet
the iomanda of the market, to be able to supply every variety of
article needed, and to turn our attention, in the first instance, to
these chea|>er productions. A large )>art of the new capital will
be devoted to the production of more valuable goods, from which
larger profits will be obtained, I should add that the cwt of pro-
duction will be reduced, as (he standing chargee will not be
materially increased, and the additions to the existing engine
Kwer will be comparatively small. I will not detain the meeting
. further remarks, and will only add that we shall be happy to
give any further information that may be required by any member
present. I will now conclude bv moving the following resolution :
*' That the Directors' report and balance-sheet for [he period com-
mencing from the dale of the Com|)any's formation — viz., Sep-
tember 10, 1890, to December 31, 1891 -now submitted to the
meeting, be, and are, approved and adopted."
M. Bairaun, who spoke in French, snid that in the last report
issued to the shareholders on the Ist of April he had given them
his opinion, and had nothing to take from it. They were at
present producing about eight or nine tons per week, but in a tort-
work— iua great measure covereii by the fact that to obtain
in PrODce it was necessary to supply nil kinds of goods, as Fiench-
men would not divide their orders.
Jbklor Jones seconded the adoption of the report, an<l expressed
his personal conlidence, as an expert, in the Elmore process.
In reply to a (gucstion as to what the English was doing, Hr.
Xlmora pointed out that the success of the French Camjiany might
be ganged by the fact that the English Company was at the
|iresent time doing business iit a profit equal to a dividend of 40
per cent, on the total capital.
Hr. r. L. HawMMi pointed out that it was essential that further
capital should be provideil, as whenever they were dealing with a
Mtent. it was desirable to increa^'e the output to the fullest extent.
They must remember that tliey had only 13 years in whicli they
coulil expect to make these very large proGts.
Aftrer some further discussion the ret>ort was agreed to unani.
The usual formal elections having been carrie<l,
A resolution was passed, increasing the capital of the Company
to £400,000 by the creation of £100,000 new shares of £2 each,
Buch shares to be proforence shares, with a preferential dividend of
10 jier cent , and entitled to a further dividend of 5 per cent after
IS per cent, was paid upon the existing shares.
INDO-EUBOPEAN TELEGRAPH COMPANY, UH1T£D.
The twenty-fifth ordinary generol meeting of this Company was
held on Wednesday at IVinchester House, Old Broad-street, Mr.
J. Herbert Tritton prosiding.
The Chalmikn observed that the past year had been on the
whole favourable for the C-orapany. Their receipts were increose'l
by £'>,t)91, and the number of words exchanged with India for the
first time exceeded by 40.300 the number of words exchanged
before the reduction in the rotes which was applied in ItJHO,
although as yet the money earned was still lens by C.'ffl,n2l than
it would have been, with a similar traffic, had not the rate been
reduced. The expenses were £57,902 on all accounts, and they
were able to place £10,000 to the reserve fund and to recommenil
the payment of a dividend which, with the interim distribution,
made 10 per cent, for the year. They would carry foiward
£6,983. as against £1,16S last year. At their last meeting he
eipressed his personal opinion that the 12 months' trial then pro-
poaed of the reduced rates with Australui was not sutScient, Thta
bad proved to be the cose- They had not yet received accounts
for ono clear year's traffic, and it had been determined by all the
parties to the agreement not to give the rwpiired notice of termina-
tion, and consequently the agreement would remain in force.
Tbey bad thought it well to conlributs on behail of tlia Company
towards the relief of the sufferers by the Russian famine the sum
of £500. With Persia there had been increased telegraphic int«t-
course, by which they bad benefited, and on the whole, taking the
complete range of the business, there was an improvcnwnt in the
Company's affairs. He concluded by projjoaing the adoption of
the report
Kr. B. WMver seconded the motion, which wa« adopted.
ORIENTAL TELEPHONE COMPANY. LIMITED.
Tho twelfth ordinary annual general meeting of thto Company
was held on Wednesday, at The City Terminus HotcL
Hr. WUUud AddlMa, who presided, said that owing to the low
price of silver and consefguent depreciation in exchange, thoir net
profits bad not materially increased. The decision of the Court as
to the manner of declaration and distribution of dividend was in
favour of tho IMrectors' action, but since the issue of the report the
Directors had received notice of appeal against the dei^on of Mr.
Justice Kekewich, and the meeting would uaderstaitd that he
could not now make any remarks uijon the case. They proposed
to add £3,000 to the reserve fund, bringing it up to £10,000. It
bad been the endeavour of the Board to accomplish two things—
the one to arrange terms with the holders of the vend ore' shuvson
a reasonable and eouilable basis, and the other 10 abolish or
greatly reduce the liability of 9b, on the ordinary shares apon
which lis. was paid-and they were in hopes of^ arriving at a
satisfactory settlement. The 'Tolephone Company ol Egypt was
still progressing and iiaid its fl per cent, on the preferred shares,
the whole of which the Oriental Telephone fompanj practically
held. All the exchanges worked by the Comfiany were kept in a
stale of efficiency. He concluded by moving the adoption of
the report and accounts and the declaialion of a dividend, tax
free, at the rale of 2^ jicr cent.
Mr. B. Bt. Jobn Ankara seconded the motion which was carried.
At the conclusion of the ordinary business, tho following reooln-
tion was^reod to: " That the name of the Company be changed
to ' The Oriental Tolephone and Electric Com[iany, Limttad.' "
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
Bleotrlo Trunwaya Company, Limited. —This Com-
piuiy hoB been formerl, with a capital of £100,000 in £1 shares, for
the porpoE'C of ftpi]uiring a concession granted by I he municipal
authorities of Madras, by an order bearing date November 18. 1S91,
ami approved by the Madras Government, for the construction and
working of tramways in Madras. Tho tiamway lines are divided
into six sections, with a mileage of IRl miles, or. including sidings,
18 miW. The pio«|)ectuB sUtes that the Directors hold estimataB
from firms of the highe.-t character in the United Kingdom which
enable them to state that the lines will he laid, buildings erected,
and plant provided for a sum not exceeding £5,000 [«r mile. The
motive power to be employed is electricity, conveyed by overhead
wires from a central station. The Directors anticij^te that not
more than half the share capital will be called up,
SoDtb Amerloan Cabl« Cempooy.— This Company hu been
formed, with a share capital of £500,000 in £10 shares, to ooinplete
an additional telegrophic route between Europe and Sonth
America by the laying of cables, under coocesaiona from the
Brazilian ond French Governments, between Periiambuoo in
Brazil and St. Louis in Senegal, touching at the island of
Fernando de Noronha. An agreement has boon entered into
with the India Rubber, Cutta Percha, and Telegraph Works, Com-
pany, Limited, to make and lay suitable cables, and to supply the
necessary working and testing instrumenls for the cable stations,
and to hand over to this Coraiiany the Broziliau concession for the
sum of £520,000, of which they have agreed to take £100,000 in
fully-paid shares. The whole of the cables have been manufactured
and shipped, and it is ex|>ected that tho laying will be completed
by the middle of July. The Senegal end of the cable is already
Uid. The present issue is of 30,000 £10 shares, of which 10,000
will be taken by the contractors, and 20,000 arc olTered for
subscription i £300,000 of .'i per cent, mortgage dobenturefl of
^100 each are also offered for subscription at £04 per cent.
BUSINESS NOTES.
Limited-"
WBWilwry Mid aieetrlekl.- Messrs. A. B. (iill and Co. Bend us a
notice to the effect they are undertaking sanitary inspection as
part of their sanitary, electrical, and mechanical engineering
Tnbea.— Mr. John Spencer, of the Globe Tube Works, Wednea-
bury, informs us that he has increased his discounts from tube*
and fittings 3) per cent, on tho gross : iron and steel boiler tubes
remain as before.
Weatern and Braallian Telegraph Companr. Limited.— The
traffic receipts of this Comuany for the weekending Agiril 22, after
deducting 17 per cent, of the gross receipts [layable to the Loodon
l-latino Braxdian Telegraph Comimny, Limited, were £2.S16.
City Mid ftentb London B»Uway. - The recoliite for the week
ending 2-ltb April were £807, atjainst £784 for Uie sama {Mriod of
432
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, APRIL 29, 1892.
last year, or an increase of £23. The total receipts to date from
January 1, 1892, show an increase of £1,110, as compared with
last year.
West India and Panama Telegraph Company, Limited. —
The Directors of this Company recommend dividends for the six
months ended December 31, 1891, of 6s. per share on the first and
second preference and 6d. per share on the ordinary shares,
carrying forward £2,123. The receipts for the half- month ended
April 15, were £2,673 against £3,661. The December receipts,
estimated at £4,878, realised £4,914.
BraMlllan Snlmiarlne Telegraph Company. — The report of
this Company for the half year ended December 31 states that the
revenue amounted to £127,085, and the working expenses to
£32,486. After providing for debenture interest, sinking funds,
and income tax, there remains a balance of £80,682, to which was
to be added £28.211 brought forward, making a toUl of £108,893.
First and second interim dividends amounting to £39,000 have
been paid, and £50,000 transferred to the reserve fund, leaving
£19,893 to be carried over. In accordance with the pro\'isi(>ns for
repayment of the first issue of debentures, dated July 31, 1884,
168 bonds, representing £16,8(X), were drawn on the 11th inst. for
payment at par on July 30 next. This, with the previous drawings,
will make a total repayment of £113,600, leaving £.36,40(» of the
first issue of debentures outstanding.
Slmoroti French Patent Copper Depositing Company,
Idmlted.— The Directors of this Company announce the issue of
60,000 preference shares of £2 each, on which interest at 10 per
cent, per annum is guaranteed for the first year from the date of
payment of instalments by Elmore's Foreign and Colonial Patent
Copper Depositing Company, Limited. There are reserved for
allotment to the existing shareholders in the Company 40,000
shares, and the remaining 20,0^)0 are now offered for subscription.
The Company was formed iu Sepicmber 1890, with a capital of
£400,000, for the purpose of applying the system of copper deposi-
tion, invented and patented by the Messrs. Elmore, to the manu-
facture of copper articles direct from the rough copper plates. The
preference shares are entitled to 5 per cent, additional (making 15
per cent, in all) out of the surplus available for dividend after the
ordinary shares have received 15 per cent.
Johannealrarg. — The African Banking Corporation invite sub-
scriptions until Saturday to an issue of 7 per cent, mortage deben-
tures of the Johannesburg Lighting Company, Limited, in bonds
of £50 each, part of an authoring issue of £60,000, and, at the option
of the holders, convertible into ordinary shares of the Company,
repayable at par on December 31, 1901. The Directors are :
W. Garland Soper, Esq., J. P. chairman (chairman of the London
Board Johannesburg Water Works Estate and Exploration Com-
pany, Limited) ; wT M. Farmer, Esq. (director of South African
Gola Trust and Agency Company, Limited) ; S. Hughes Hewitt,
Esq., South Aubyn, Kingston Hill, Surrey; Alfred Jones, Esq.
(director of Durban-Roodepoort Gold Miping Company, Limited) >
W. F. Lance, Esq., managing director, Johannesburg. Trustees
for the debenture holders: Lieut. -General Sir T. L.J. Gallwey,
k.E., K.C M.G Terrace House, Roehampton ; Archibald Parker,
£2s^., 2, East India-avenue, E.C. Bankers in London and South
Africa : African Banking Corporation, Limited, 43, Threadneedle-
Btoeet, London, E.C. Solicitors : Messrs. Ashurst, Morris, Crisp,
and Co., 17, Throgmorton - avenue, E.C. Auditor: W. F.
Turner, Esq., chartered accountant,, 20, Great Winchester-street,
E.C. ^Secretaries and registered offices ; Messrs. Davis and
Soper,' Bury-street, St. Mary-axe, E.C. The Company has
acquired two concessions of the Government of the South African
Republic for 99 years, for supplying gas and electric power for
public and private lighting, heating, and other purposes in the
town of Johannesburg ; and the electric concession extends to the
soburbs of Johannesburg. By terms of the concession no street
lighting, whether by gas or electricity, can be carried out by any
public authority, except through the Company. Contracts have
been made, or are in course of negotiation, for the supply of incan
descent lighting to the Postal and Telegraph Offices, the Grand
National Hotel, the Central Hotel, Heath's Hot«l, the (a lobe
Theatre, the club, and other buildings. The demands for electric
lighting are in excess of what the Company at present can supply
It is estimated that the net revenue from gas and electricity,
inreepective of the residual gas products will, on the carrying out
of the concessions, amount to £20,(X)0 per annum.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS* 1892.
April 19.
7361. Improvements In thm distrllratlon of olectrlolty by alter-
nate eorrenta. Wilfrid L. Spence and Benjamin Deakin,
The Elms, Seymour-grove, Manchester.
7398. Improvements In teleptaono reoelvers. Edwin Charles
Hess, 321, High Holbom, London. ((Complete specification.)
7404. Improvements In or relating to oleetrle rallwasrs and to
dirnamo maohlnea and motors. Sidney Howe Short, 18,
Buckingham-street, Strand, London. (Complete specifica-
tion.)
7412. An Improved battory element. Sir Charles Stewart
Forbes, Bart., 21, Finsbury-pavement, London.
7416. Improvements In and relating to eleetrle railways.
MArk WeeHey Dewey, 45, Southampton-buildings, (.-hancery
Uae, London, (Complete 0pedfication).
7466.
7487.
7488.
7492.
7509.
7515.
7569.
7570.
'593.
r629.
7646.
7649.
7655.
7682.
7690.
7717.
7718.
Apbil 20.
Improvements In oleetrleal eommwnlnatlMi on raUwaj
trains. Alexander Shiels, 70, Wellington-street, Glasgow.
Improvements In eleetrle swltolies. William Arthur
Smith Benson, 24, Southampton-buildings, Chanoery-lane,
London.
Improvemonts In eleotrle aro lampa. Henry Tipping, 55,
Chancery-lane, London.
Improvements In and oonnoetod with eloetrlo IMlla.
Hermann Oppenheimer, .34, Aldermanbury, London.
Improvements In alteraatlng^enrrent alaetromagnalto
motors and methods of operating tha sama. Henry
Harris Lake, 45, Southampton-buildings, Chancery-laoe,
London. (William Stanley, jun., and John Forest Kelly*
United States. ) (Complete specification . )
Improvements In eleetrle Insulating eomposltlon. Thomas
(iriffiths, 54, Fleet-street, London.
April 21.
Improvements In apparatus I6r antomatleaUj apamtlBS
eleetrle lamp switohes. Percival Everitt, 4, South-street,
Finsbury, London.
Improvements In Insnlators for eleetrle InstallatlOBa.
William Thomas Sugj,', 6, Bream's-buildings, Chancery-
lane, London.
April 22.
Improvements In frlese and eomloe bordors and dada
decorations for eleotrlo fittings. Sir William Vavasour,
6, Ro{)eniaker street, Finsbury- pavement, London.
An eleetrloaUy -propelled eanoo. Charles Eklward Master-
man and Woodhouse and Rawson United, Limited, 28,
Sou^/hamplori-buildings, Chancery-lane, London.
Improvements In eleotrle switohes or oontaet makera.
Henry Alexander Mavor, William Arthur Coulson, Sam
Mavor, and William Brooks Sayers, 46, Linooln's-inn-fields,
London.
A new or Improved eleotrle bell push or pull, ete., anto-
matlo Indloator. Illius Augustus Timmis, 2, Great Qeorgep
street, Westminster, London.
Improvements In oleetrleal call and Indicating apparatus.
George Richard Nunii, 6, Bank-street, Manchester.
Apkh. 23.
An Improvement In eleotromotors, appUoaUe alao to
djrnamo-eleotrle maohlnes. Francis Price, Bristol Bank-
buildinge, Bristol.
Improvements In eleotromotors. John Augustine King-
don, 29, Marlborough-hill, London.
Improvements In eleetrlo alarm apparatus I6r use In
oonneevlon with raUwajrs and vehloles, or trains
travelling thereon. William Lloyd Wise, 46, Linc»ln*8-
inn-fields, London. (I)emetre Murguletz, Roumania.)
Improvements In or oonnoetod with eleotrle are lamps.
William Hopkin Akester, 57, Chancery -lane, London.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED
1888.
4626*. Kleotrolytle production of metals. (Amended.) Hoepfner.
1890.
irM.16*. Telephone receivers. (Amended). Collier.
1891.
8457. Sleetrle are lamps. Si)oke8.
896.3. Wiring for eleotrle lighting, ete. Sisling and otliers.
9227. Telephones. Siemens Rro8. and Co., Limited. (Siemens
and Halsko.)
9249. Kleotromagnets for holding tools, etc. Rowan and
M*Whirter.
10261. Kleotric motors. Pieper.
10612. Kleetrloal transformers. Siemens Bros, and Co., Limited.
(Siemens and Halske. )
1892.
2225. Purifying eleotrolytes. Nahnsen.
3971. Xleetrie propulsion of vehloles. Mills. (Johnson.)
3996. Kleetrlo adhesive plasters. Thompson. (Shults.)
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE UST.
Brush Co
— Pref.
India Ruhher, GutU Percha & Telegraph Co.
House-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Electric Construction
Westminster Electric
• • • •
Liverpool Electric Supply
{
Paid.
Price
Wednw
dtjr
_
H
2J
10
20*
5
oi
—
Hi
r.
1
3^
4i
—
«i
fi
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10
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—
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6
:.4
8
n
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 6, 1892.
433
NOTES.
Cheltenham. — Prof. Ayrton has been called in to
report on the borough surveyor's scheme for lighting
Cheltenham.
Electric Cooking. — A demonstration of electric
cooking was given «t South Shields last week by Mr.
Farquhar Laing.
Bamsley. — The electric lighting scheme for Barnsley
is still under discussion after a visit to Bradford, but no
decision has yet been arrived at.
Blackpool. — The Blackpool Corporation invite tenders,
in an advertisement elsewhere, for the seven years' conces-
sion to run tramways in that town.
IfOeds Victoria Hall. — The Leeds County Council, on
the motion of Sir Edwin Gaunt, have decided to adapt the
fittings in Victoria Hall as electroliers.
Aberdeen. — The Aberdeen Town Council on Tuesday
agreed to invite Prof. Kennedy to visit Aberdeen and report
upon the best mode of electric lighting.
IdTorpool. — Mr. W. H. Preece, in a lecture at Liver-
pool, pointed out the possibility of utilising the Yyrnwy
water power for transmission to Liverpool.
Glasgow. — It has been resolved by the Glasgow Cor-
poration Electric Lighting Committee to erect 106 lamps
in the principal thoroughfares next winter.
Assessment. — The Crystal Palace District Electric
Lighting Works at Sydenham have been provisionally
assessed at £500 by the Lewisham Guardians.
Leeds. — An advertisement will be found elsewhere
inviting tenders for the supply and erection of machinery
for a central electric station at Leeds by May 26.
Society of Arts. — An article will be read by Mr.
G. L. Addenbrooke on Wednesday, May 11, before the
Society of Arts, on ''Uses and Applications of Aluminium."
Bamet. — The arbitration case between Mr. Joel and
the Barnet Local Board, of which two meetings were
held last week, comes on again for examination next
Monday.
Hospital Ughting. — The London County Council
have sanctioned the electric lighting of the Ophthalmic
Hospital, St. George's-circus, by the Electric Supply
Company.
Internal Ligrkting. — Mr. W. H. Preece will read a
paper on the 16th inst. before the Royal Institution of
British Architects, on " The Art of the Internal Illumination
of Buildings."
Tunbridge Wells. — A petition, bearing numerous and
influential signatures^ has been presented to the Town
Council at Tunbridge Wells, asking for private and public
electric lighting. \
Board of Trade Unit.— The Board of Tr^de have
decided that the unit of 1,000 watt-hours aW^^e termed
the ** kelvin," and in provisional orders just granted have
altered the terms accordingly.
Electric Testing of MilK. — The Chemiker Zeitung
describes experiments in the testing or analysis of milk by
electric curfeTTtpbased upon the change in resistance of
liquids by the addition of oil or grease.
Mr. Tesla. — The many friends of Mr. Tesla will be
sorrv to hear that he has sustained a severe loss in the
death of his mother, to whom he has been on a visit
Owing to this loss he is still detained in Montenegro.
Book Received. — We have received from Messrs.
Spon a copy of the new edition, greatly enlarged, of Prof.
S. P. Thompson's work on " Dynamo-Hectric Machinery,"
which is now included in the Finsbury Technical Series.
Dalton. — The surveyor to the Dalton Local Board has
been instructed to prepare specification for street lighting.
Mr. Greo. Peers has written to the Board with reference to
electric lighting, and the clerk has been instructed to reply.
Warrinerton. — The Warrington Gras Committee wish
to ask permission to borrow £30,000 for extension of gas
works, but Alderman Harrison said that the electric light
should be considered, and the recommendation was with-
drawn.
Worcester. — The alternative plans of the alternating
current and the storage distribution by the Brush Com-
pany or the Electrical Power Stora^ge Company are still
under discussion at Worcester. A decision is expected
shortly.
Salford. — At the monthly meeting of the Salford
County Borough Council on May 4, it was decided to
expend £30,000, with the sanction of the Board of Trade,
for an installation to supply electric lighting throughout
the borough.
Southampton. — Tenders are required by May 16 for
electric lighting the Southampton Corporation Baths.
Specifications may be obtained and plans seen on applica-
tion to Mr. J. G. W. Aldridge, 9, Victoria-street, West-
minster, and 23, High-street, Southampton.
Institution. — The Institution will meet next Thurs-
day, May 12, when the discussion on Mr. Trotter's paper
on the " Light of the Electric Arc " will be continued, and
a paper will be read ** On the Cause of the Changes of
E.M.F. in Secondary Batteries " by Dr. J. H. Gladstone,
F.RS., and W. Hibbert.
Calibrating Dsmamo. — A useful piece of apparatus
in a factory or laboratory is the calibrating dynamo,
designed by Mr. Frederick La Roche, of Philadelphia. This
dynamo has a range of from 02 to 12,000 volts, and is used
in the instrument factory of Queen and Company for direct
calibration of instruments.
Pretoria. — With reference to the progress of electric
lighting in South Africa an erroneous allusion was allowed
to pass last week upon the town of Pretoria, which, as is
well known, is being fitted up with a complete electric
central station system by Messrs. Crompton and Co., and
the contract is now on the very eve of completion.
Colombo. — At -a meeting of the Colombo Municipal
Council it was agreed, on entering upon the gas contract
for a more extended period, to make a reservation in the
case of the Fort Ward. This reservation was made on the
suggestion of Mr. Walker, who stated that representatives
of an electric lighting company in London had been
prospecting in Colombo.
Electricity in the Household. — Messrs. Drake and
Gorham have obtained the contract for the electric lighting
of Lawnhurst, for Mr. Simon. The light is to be employed
throughout the whole of the large building, and the current
is also to be used for driving a workshop, blowing an organ,
and other purposes, for which its convenience is becoming
every day more appreciated.
Shrewsbury. — The Shropshire Electric Light and
Power Company are advertising their powers under the
provisional order in accordance with the Board of Trade
regulations. The address of the company is 9, The Square,
Shrewsbury, or Messrs. Chester, Mayher, and Broome, 36,
Bedford-street. Plans of the proposed areas to be lighted
are shown at these addresses.
434
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 6, 1892.
Chieago Ucrhtlng. — The Thomson-Houston Company
have been given a contract for the lighting at the Chicago
Exhibition for 2,500 arc lamps at 20dols. each, without
superintendence. The Standard Company, of Chicago, are
to be given 1,000, and the Western Electric Company 500
on the same basis. It is still thought of seeking some
lamps from English contractors.
Electric Submarine Boat. — It is stated that a novel
kind of submarine boat has been launched at Savona by
an Italian engineer, Signer Abbatti. The boat is designed
for fishing and recovering lost property. It is driven by
an electric screw, and is capable of remaining under water,
so it is stated, for six hours at a depth of 330ft. A first
trip is to be made shortly from Civita-Vecchia.
Derby. — At the meeting of the Derby Town Council
on Wednesday, a recommendation was made for the Cor-
poration to undertake the lighting of the central part of
the town, both public and private property, with electricity,
and £30,000 was asked for to defray the cost of the instal-
lation, with engines, dynamos, and underground mains.
The recommendation was unanimously adopted.
Accident. — We are sorry to have to report a shocking
fatal accident to William Pembcrion Bannister, 22 years
of age, who accidentally got his legs entanglei in an electric
coal-cutting machine at Glass Houghton Colliery, Castle-
ford, where he had been sent to superintend the experi-
ments. Ho was removed to Leeds infirmary, but was so
seriously injured that he expired shortly afterwards.
Provisional Orders. — Mr. Campion, one of the
examiners on standing orders of the House of Commons,
has found compliance in the case of the Electric Lighting
Provisional Order Bill which proposes to confirm certain
provisional orders made by the Board of Trade under the
Electric Lighting AcU of 1882 and 1888, relating to Sutton
(Surrey), West Ham, Woking (Horsell and Chertsey),
Kilkenny, and Newbury.
Books on Electricity. — Mr. Bernard Quaritch sends
us his catalogue of rare and second-hand books, among
which are several upon electricity and magnetism. There
is De la Rive's " Treatise on Electricity," translated by C.
y. Walker ; Faraday's " Researches," original issue and the
reissue ; Franklin's " Experiments and Observations,"
bound together with Hoadby and Nairne ; and a copy of
Gilbert's " De Magneto " (Londini, 1600).
Electricity in Papermaking. — In a note, on the
22nd, on the above subject, we stated that Mr. Bevan in
his lecture mentioned that the manufacturer could produce
at a daily cost of £133 chemicals which at present cost
him £300. Mr. Bevan writes to us, from 4, New-court, to
say that this hardly represented what he stated, which was
that alkali and bleaching powder could be produced at
a cost of about one half the present selling prices.
Blackpool Winter Garden. — The Art, Trade, and
Industrial Exhibition was opened at Blackpool Winter
Gardens on Wednesday. A special feature of the exhibi-
tion is the display of electric lighting. Two firms make an
excellent show. Messrs. Laing, Wharton, and Down light
up the Floral Hall, promenade, and rink with about a
dozen Thomson-Houston arc lights, while the Corlott
Electrical Engineering Company will also light the pavilion
by means of arc lamps.
Colombo Tramways. — The Chairman of the Muni-
cipal Council of Colombo (Mr. H. Hay Cameron) will receive
proposals for the construction of tramways in Colombo,
Ceylon, up to the 30th September, 1892. Principals only
will be dealt with as regards the concessions. Copies of
draft of concessions with plan of street and gradients can
be obtained on application at the Municipal Office, Colombo,
and any further information as to traffic will be supplied by
the chairman of the Council.
Newark. — At the last meeting of the Newark Urban
Sanitary Authority, the Mayor, in reference to the electric
lighting question, mentioned that Messrs. Quibell, Knight,
and Norledge and himself had been to the Electrical
Exhibition in London, and had seen Messrs. Crompton ;
and Mr. Sheppard, who was alwa} s ready to help in such
matters, had undertaken to prepare certain engineering
particulars for the committee. He did not think they
would be able to have the electric light this year.
Whitehall Club Dinner. — Arrangements have been
made for a dinner of the electrical engineering members of
the Whitehall Club at the Crystal Palace on Wednesday,
May 25. Special demonstrations will be given by Mosbtp.
Crompton and Co., of electric cooking; Messrs. Laing,
Wharton, and Down, of Prof. Elihu Thomson's experi-
ments ; and by Messrs. Siemens and Swinburne and Co.7o}
high-tension experiments. Mr. W. H. Preece, F.R.S., will
take the chair. Members have the opportunity to invite
friends.
Wakefield. — A errand bazaar has been held at Wake-
field, in the Corn Exchange, in celebration of the Wakefield
Cathedral improvements. Mr. H. M. Edwards, of the
Cardigan Works, provided two electric lamps of 1,000 cp.
each — one being on the landing of the staircase, and the
other in the Merchant's Hall. The electricity was supplied
from a dynamo affixed in the yard of The Bull Hotel,
under the superintendence of Mr. Edwards, jun., which
was worked by a gas engine lent for the occasion by Mr. J.
J. Martin.
Staffordshire Industrial School. — ^The Lidustrial
Boys' School Committee of the Staffordshire County
Council, having repeated recommendations of high
authority before them, have come to the decision that it
was more desirable to adopt lighting by electricity, and
therefore asked the Council to authorise an expenditure
not exceeding £900 for that purpose. After considerable
discussion this was referred back to the committee, with a
desire that they should furnish the Council with further
information thereon.
Govemment Enquiries. — In the House of Commons,
on the 28th inst., in reply to Mr. Bartley, Sir M. Hicks-
Beach said that in cases where objection to an application
for a license or provisional order under the Electric
Lighting Acts is made by any person locally interested, the
Board of Trade do, if they consider it expedient, hold a
local enquiry ; but the circumstances of different applica-
tions vary so much that it is impossible to lay down any
definite rule as to the grounds which would justify the
holding of such an enquiry.
Burnley.. — The electric lighting scheme for Burnley is
awaiting the sanction of the Local Government Board for
power to '- ^rrow £25,000 for f^liiOiirif?J'!Thtinp.4M.J7'^til this
is obtain! " "^^^^-^^ : '-eme
has be irfPANlES' STOCK AND SHARiS LIST.
ing L» *
geariijg, ^OiXr =- ^^"^^
tension system with ~ "
cations are being pi
sanction of the Local Gro*r^i^!l^'*j^"QQ
South Shields. — The m
Paid.
Price
WedDM
10
.5
H
poration are exercised in their l.. .. "'v.- ^-..-vionce to ^ae
gas supply of the present company. A special committee
has been appointed to consider the question of municipal
gas works, and no time should be lost in bringing before
this committee the results of Bradford and St. Pancras
with municipal electric lighting. In Stockton, where gaa
■'■'
i
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 6, 1892.
435
is at 2s. 6d. per 1,000, with a consumption of one-third
less than South Shields, the Corporation make a profit of
£5,000 a year, and with their own works the South Shields
Corporation should be in a good position with either gas
or electric light to make a profit.
Moffat. — The Moffat Police Commissioners had before
them on Monday night a report by Prof. Jamieson, Glasgow
and West of Scotland Technical College, upon a proposal
to light the streets of Moffat by electricity, the motive
power being obtained from Evan water, two miles distant.
I The several schemes were discussed at considerable length.
It was remarked they would entail an annual cost double
or treble the present cost of lighting by gas. Eventually
a motion by Bailie Knight, to postpone further considera-
tion of the schemes till after the election in November, was
carried as against the proposal by Mr. Brown for an
immediate appeal to the ratepayers.
Halifax. — The Board of Trade have decided to grant
to the Corporation of Halifax a provisional order for the
electric lighting of the area comprised within the county
borough. The Corporation are placed under an obligation
to lay distributing mains withiil a period of two years after
the commencement of this order along the principal
thoroughfares expressly mentioned in a schedule attached
to the order. The order will come into operation imme-
diately upon the passing of the Bill confirming it, and in
the event of the mains not being laid within the time stated
the Board of Trade reserve to themselves the right to
revoke the whole or any part of the order.
York. — The town clerk of York has issued a circular
stating that a proposal will shortly be submitted to the
City Council that they shall exercise at an early date
powers which the Corporation have obtained for lighting
the city by electricity. In order that the Electric Lighting
Committee may be strengthened in any recommendation
they may make to the Council, they are desirous of being
able to refer to promises by residents and occupiers to take
a supply of electricity for the lighting of their houses
and establishments, and the object of the enquiry is to
obtain such promises. The circular is accompanied by a
pamphlet respecting lighting by electricity.
Blectric Laonoh at the Crystal Palace. — Messrs.
Woodhouse and Eawson have lately added to their stand
at the Crystal Palace an electric launch, and the following
particulars concerning this boat will be of interest. The
" Lily," as she is named, is 28ft. long, and has a beam of
5ft. 6in., a depth 2ft. lOin., and a draught of 2ft. The sides
of the boat are carvel, built of mahogany, with American
elm keel and timbers, and she has an oak stem, stem-post,
and dead-wood. The electrical equipment consists of a
2-h.p. "W&R" motor, supplied with current from 30
Epstein cells. The weight of the boat complete is 25cwt.
She will hold from 12 to 15 passengers,^ and with one
charging, which^ j^flamaes about four hours^'yeill run at full
ancil at Tunbridge WellH,*a 'klBtj'iM^ ^iveLU J
^». diectric lighting. i'a^ committee,
Board of Trade Unit.— The Board of TrtUst week
decided that the unit of 1,000 watt^hours sha)^ fe****, company
the " kelvin," and in provisional orde "wpply Bray's patent
altered the terms accordingly. A ^^^ ^^^^ thoroughfares
^, ^ , ^ . what terms. It was also
Electric Testing of MiJ^ ^h^jj,,^ ^1, ^^^,
describes experiments m th^,^,^^ ^^^^ ^„j conditions for
public fighting.^ ^®5..."Willey expressed the opinion that
Exeter was very badly lighted. In the main streets the
lamps were very small, and in the suburban districts they
were of a primitive description. Mr. Thompson did not
think they would get the streets of Exeter lighted as they
would wish to see them until they had electricity.
Glasgow Technical College. — ^Mr. Andrew Stewart
has presented a handsome screw-cutting lathe to the elec-
trical engineering laboratory connected with the Qlasgow
and West of Scotland Technical College. Prof. Jamieson,
who presided at the presentation on the 20th inst., said
that the lathe was the best in proportion to its size in
Scotland. Mr. Stewart then made the presentation.
He trusted that the work that was turned out with
the machine would be done with thought and care.
Mr. Russell, of Ascog, on behalf of the directors, received
the gift. The machine, it may be stated, was made by
Messrs. John Lang and Sons, lathe manufacturers, John-
stone.
Portsmouth. — Renewed experiments with electric
lamps have been conducted at the Portsmouth Town Hall,
and the Electric Lighting Committee have come to a
decision as to the pattern of lamp which shall be adopted
for street lighting. They have chosen for the ordinary
streets Edison-Swan incandescent lamps of 200 c.p., which
will be placed at distances of about every 50 yards in the
thoroughfares to be lighted. The existing gas columns,
which stand about this distance apart, will be used for the
new lamps in almost every case. The Clarence Esplanade,
from one pier to the other, will be illuminated by powerful
arc lights of the Brockie-Pell {mttern. It is expected that
the Local Government Board will in about six weeks' time
give their sanction to the borrowing of the £60,000 for the
whole work, which will then be taken in hand forthwith,
the committee being desirous of completing the installation
before the close of the year.
Smithfield Markets. — We mentioned a few weeks
ago that a proposal has been made by Messrs.
Julius Sax and Co., of Ridgmount-street, to the Markets
Committee of the Corporation of London to light the
avenues of the Central Markets at West Smithfield free of
charge, in return for a concession for the lighting of the
markets at a price not exceeding the Board of Trade rate.
This offer has now been unanimously accepted by the
Markets Committee, and the project will have a consider*
able interest among municipal electric lighting schemes.
Messrs. Julius Sax and Co. propose to illuminate all
avenues of the markets with 100 Edison-Swan incandescent
lamps of 50 c.p. each, which will relieve the Corporation of
a considerable annual expense for gas. The firm has also
undertaken to supply each of the Corporation's tenants
with not less than 10 lamps, at the rate per unit which
from time to time shall be fixed by the Board of Trade.
Searoh-Ughts on Battle-Ships. — Lieutenant W. B.
Lefroy Hamilton in a recent article on electricity in the
U.S. Navy refers to the working of the search-light He
says that in the practical use of the search-light it has been
found that, in order to afford a sufficient time for a careful
examination of the water's surface at points far removed
from the ship, the beam of light must be revolved very
slowly, and therefore during a great portion of the time
much of the surrounding water is left in darkness. As it
only takes five minutes for a torpedo-boat to run a distance
of two miles, it is easily seen that in the interval between
two successive illuminations of the same spot a torpedo
might attack a warship and discharge her weapon. To
overcome this difficulty it is proposed that the new
American warships, beginning with the " New York," shall
be fitted with a number of stationary search-lights grouped
together, each illuminating its own section, thus keeping
the ship surrounded by an unbroken circle of light.
Taunton. — The report of Mr. Kapp, as valuer for the
Taunton Corporation of the electric light station, has been
awaited with great interest, as it was felt that upon that
would depend the action of the Corporation on the prr
43«
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAT 6, 1892.
poeed porcbue of the atation, which has been urged upon
tho town. Wo ire not able t« give Mr. Kapp's report as
yet in full, but the following abstract is given in Lhe local
paper : " We understand that the valuer estimates the
toUl value of the worka at between £6,000 and £7,000.
Be further points out Ibat some of the plant ao valued
would be worth nothing to the Council, thus reducing the
purchaaable plant to about £3,000. He also gave an
unfavourable opinion aa to the site of the electric worka,
Uid ia not eatiafied that the system followed is the best
attainable. Altogether the reiwrt is most discouraging to
the aharehotdera and to townspeople generally, Something
definite will have to be done without delay, else the li^ht
viJI go out and the front streets will be in darkness till the
gas lamps can be got up into position again."
Bxetei^PlymonUi Telephone. — The telephone trunk
line connecting Exeter to Torquay and Plymorith was
opened last week, aud this lait result of the enterprise of
the Western Counties Telephone Company is likely to
prove of considerable utility to the inhabitants of South
Devon. The experiments organised at the opening of the
line by Mr. J. A. Bonatban, the superintendent of the
Exeter exchange, were extremely nucceasful. S|>eakin^
first to Torquay, listeners iu Exeter were delighted with the
clearness of enunciation of persona 30 miles away, and this
was not less the caae with speakers at Plymouth, 63 miles
distant. Teignmouth and DawHsb will shortly be con-
nected, completing the exchange between all the imjrortant
South Devon towns. The trunk tolls from Exeter (in each
for three minutes' conversation, are as follow -. Telephone
to Newton Abbot (22 miles). 6d. : Torquay (28A), 6d. ;
Paignton (32), 6d. ; Brixham (40A), 9d. ; Dartmouth (44),
9d. iTotnea (3Sj), 9(1. ; Bnckfastle'igh (45), 9d. ; Ashburton
(48), W. J I'lympton (58), 9d, ; Plymouth (G2l). 9d. ; Rame
Bead (9eA), 9d.
LlKhttaODse BeamB.— Lieut. Albert O. Froud, K.N.R,
Kcretary to tho .Shipmasters' Society, GO, Fen church street,
faaa the following letter in the Timet: "The ' Eidor'a '
wreck during fog, and the ensuing newspaper correspon-
dence, have brought home to the general public that gap
ill the effective continuity of coast Lighte and signals which
this society baa l>Ben endeavouring to help in bridging
over — ' ibrilla ' of light, as recommended by Prof. Tyndall ;
the sky-flashing aignals of Mr. John Wigham ; vertical
beama uf light, aa suggested by this society ; and sounif
■ignala bursting in the air and giving out a shower of white
or coloured stars at a high elevation. All these are avail-
able, and in the opinion of the committee of management
kre likely to serve the pur[>OBe. To help in further
testing the committee's suggestion, Mr. Konald A. Scott,
ui exhibitor who aided them at tho Iloyal N'aval Exhibi-
tion, has again volunteered to project a vertical beam of
light from the Crystal Palace at 9 to 0.15 of every week-
day evening during the month of May. The committee
will t>e much obliged if yon give prominence 1^.0 this
announcement, and the notea of any observer will be
thankfully acknowledged."
IntemationAl Horticultural Ezhlbition.— In the
lortbcoming International Horticultural Exhibition at
Earl's Court the building and grounds are lit by 210
lO-ampere arc lamjM, lun 30 in aeries, and the ellecta in
arena (Buffalo Bill) are obtained by 11 40-ampero pro-
Jectorm with special reflectors, and which also have n novel
Mlf-reguUting attachment. In the engine-room there are
Ught 30-lightor seriM arc machinoa, two compound 17-uu<l
nacbinea lor the projeotora, two Mordey alternators with
txciler to run 000 to 1,000 incandescent htmjM, with
Mordey transformers, snpplied by the Brush Company.
~ vey-Puxman unj^iue and builera am uaod — vie, one 80
and two 40 nominal horae-power enginet and fotir i
nominal horse -power locomotive multitubular boilere,
running a countershafting divided into three sections to
meet emergency or breakdown, tho dynamos being run
from this shafting. The centre fountain in the Grand Hall
is an attractive item. Its coloured incandescent lamjia aro
controlled by an automatic switching arrangement, actuated
by a waterwheel, the combination of which was apeci»lly
designed by the electrical engineer to the exhibition, Mr.
A. H. Wood. The time for erection has been very abort
indeed. Orders were only received five weeka ago, and as
the former contractors, of course, removed their plant, it
necessitated the building and grounds being reinstalled, a»d
the making of all arrangements with the contractors as well
as erection of the plant.
Blackpool. — The electric lighting question has aceuned
considerable prominence in local politics at Blackpool.
Correspondents have been discussing the subject with a
timorous air in the Blackpool Gazette, and tho following i*
the summary that the pa|)er gives of the present stale of
the problem ; " Authoritative details of thu scheme to be
submitted to the Corporation are not yet forthcoming.
electric lighting committee has been at work for 1
months. They have iourneyed up and down England, uid
spent about a fortnight in London. Then moet of tb«
principal electrical firms have aent representetives to
Blackpool in order that no opportunity might be lost ol
obtaining a remunerative order, and members of tlie cob-
mittee, individually or otherwise, have been called OpOB
either to entertain or be entertained by these geatlanMa
It would appear for some time back several of the oon-
mittee must almost have abandoned their erennJay
avocations, and devoted themselvea entirely to the slodf
of electricity. When their report is forthcoming, tbenfore,
it may be expected to be a marvel of electrical research,
and replete with facts upon this important subject. ThU
document is awaited with no little degree of interest, and
if it aeea the light at the next meeting of the Town Council
some comment upon it may uaturally be expected. At
present there la every evidence that the ratepayeri! an
inclined to be rather dubioua ahout the electric lighting
business, hut what sort of a reception the loti|{.wut«d
report will receive remains to bo seen. "
WillCBden.—The inhabitauU of Willesdeu have been
startled by the fact that nearly all their gas bills have fcooe
np with a bound during the last quarter, in some cases at
much aa 70 per cent. An indignation meeting baa bees
held, the chairman deliberately stating that they had beta
swindled. Mr. C. Eden auggeated approachitu; tbw
member of Parliament. It was understood that the Uicr«a«
was explained by the company on the acore of inersAM of
pleasure. Mr. Collins proposed that the Local Boenl
should institute an enquiry. This was carried, and Ur.
Tickner next proposed that tho Local Board bo requaMad
to consider the advisability of starting eleotrio Ught
works for the district forthwith. A gentleman snggMed
the use of the River Brent. Mr. Hart, on behaU of a
company, submitted a scheme for electric lighttog, an)
aaid hia scheme was already before the Local Board.
He expressed btmself ready to provide the fittinga frae^
and lay on the electric light to every house, at a price oat
exceeding the present price of gas. Mr. Chaa. Eden ia
acting aa secretary of the movement, and a conunittoe •(
the principal consumers is to be appointed. It ia riglik u
say that the gaa company have in some eaaea iiwpteJ
payment for much less than the denunds, Upon iiipnaaa
tations by the consumer, but that the conplatBt ia well
founded ia shown by the (act that the aTcnige iaeraaee c(
gaa for 25 of the principal tnu^mon wm found to be 70
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAT 6, 1892.
437
per cent. — i9H increased to £153 for practically the aame
light.
Klectiioal Engineering: Problems.— An interesting
and BUggeative paper was given recently before the Dundee
Mechanical Society by Mr. Thomas Reid, assistant jjrofesaor
of engineering at the University College, on "Electrical
Engineering Probleme." The lecturer remarked on the
tendency of electrical station (iesignera to follow the
pioneers ; he alluded to the advantages of rope gearing,
and said it often seemed to be aeauraed that when triple-
expansion engines were used thoy had done all that n-as
possible, yet, as a matter of fact, there were stations
where better results could be obtained by dispensing with
one of the cylinders, as when the engine was running light
the consumption of steam to run the engine itself was a
large fraction of the total. He was not aware of many
plants in England which used less than 251b. of steam per
horse-power hour, while in Berlin it had been reduced with
large' load factors to 151b, or 161b. Engines should be
designed, in conjunction with electrical plant, to maintain
a constant pressure by changing the s^ieed, and keeping the
cut-off nearly constant, thus always at full load for that parti-
cular speed. Larger dynamos and engines could bo used
and kept steadily at work. With reference to boilers, the
same foUow-my- leader style had been adopted without due
consideration. Water-tube boilers were used, but unless
internally fired they gave rise to great radiation. He
recommended Lancashire boilers of fairly large capacity
to work in conjunction with internally- fired water-tube
boilers of small water capacity. Gas firing might be used,
one advantage being that corporations owning both gas and
electrical plants could use them with mutual advantage.
Flour-Hill Ughting at I>;nn.^>^ome large Hour
mills have recently been erected at Lynn, Norfolk, by
Mr. J. M, Bird, of Downham. The mill, constructed from
designs of Messrs. Whitmore and Binyan, is capable of
turning out about 1,200 sacks (2801b. per sack) of Hourjier
week, and when in full operation night and day wil! give
employment to some 40 hands. The engine and boilers are
supplied by Messrs. Woodhouse and Mitchell, of Brig-
house, Yorkshire. There are two Lancashire Galloway-
tubed boilers (to be used alternatively), each 2Ht. long and
7ft. in diameter, working at a pressure of 901b. The
feed-water ia heated by u Green's economtser. The
engine, a tandem horizontal compound condensing, is iitted
with Corliss valves, and has a stroke of 3ft., the high-
pressure piston being 12in. in diameter, and the low-
pressure 22in. The flywheel, which is Uft, in diameter,
is grooved for eight cotton ropes, each about lin. thick ;
of these five are 9 Oft. long, and drive the rolls
and wheat-cleaners ; the other three are 130ft. long,
and convey the motive power for the purifiers. The engine
also drives the machinery for the electric lighting, and
there is a vertical 4-h.p. engine to be used for this purpose
when the larger one is not in motion. The dynamo is a
No. 2 Crompton compound wound, capable of supplying 90
incandescent lamps of 16 c.p. The lighting is divided into
circuits, which are controlled in the engine-room by
Haitnell'a patent double-pole switches, fitted with safety
cut-outs, and provision is made for measuring the quantity
of current and pressure. The lamps arc of the Edison and
Swan patent collar type, and are suspended by ficxible
incombustible leads, each fitted with a cut-out. Each Hoor
has its own switch for turning the lights on or ofT. The
whole of the lighting apparatus is supplied and Rxed by
Mr. Wilson Hartnell, of Leeds.
Royal Society Conversaalone. — The annual con-
■eermzvim o( the Eoyal Society, hold on Wednesday
cveuing, included some very iutereiting electrical exhibits.
In the first room Dr. J, T. Bottomley showed vacuum
tubes without electrodes. The tubes were wrapped loosely
with a twist of wire, and when connected with a Rbum-
korff coil showed all the common phenomena of stratifica-
tion, and are sensitive to magnetic inrtuence. Dr. Oliver
Lodge had an assortment of induction apparatus. At one
experiment he showed the difference between negative and
positive sparks. H s[)ark8 are sent from the outer coating
of jars at the moment of discharge, water in a jar
acts as a dielectric, and an explosive spark takes place as
through oil. Flashes down an artificial rain shower were
shown. But the moat interesting was a model of the retina
in tubes of copper. From these tubes of different diameters,
arranged near a Hertz oscillator, sparks could be drawn
from different distances along their length according to
their diameter, imitating the theoretical conception of the
nerves of the eye. A curious piece of apparatus was
shown by Mr, E. E. Robinson, termed an electric
barp. A glasa plate covered with strips of tinfoil, with
gaps in a sloping line across the plate, making various
lengths of atrip when placed within range of a Hertz
oscillator, showed sparks on certain strips. Experiments
with this seemed to prove that the Hertz oscillations
included harmonic vibrations, as atoiffl of one, two, four,
etc, units length always showed sparks. Mr. Wimshurat
exhibited Leyden jars, with wire coatings, which show
new phenomena. Captain Holden had a very large selec-
tion of new instruments. The first, a highapeed chrono-
graphic pen with automatic resetting attachment, ia a pocket
arrangement for testing the speed of shot ; in this a local
circuit resets the stylus at each break of screen by a shot.
Captain Hold en also showed dead-beat direct- current
ammeters of novel design, using the expansion of a solid
conductor to bend over and move a pointer. This can
be used as ammeter or as cross-current detector,
and if set for 100 amperes will pass 99 and go at 100.
Alternating- current ammeters and galvanometers were also
shown. All these instrumojita were made by Mr. J.
Pitkin for Captain Hoiden, and are marvels of finish and
accuracy. Mr, Wm. Crookea exhibited some exceeding
interesting experiments with vibratory currents of 100,000
volts and a million alternations per second, and gave
the audience the opportunity of taking such shocks.
Vacuum tubes connected to one jjole were brilliantly
lighted by simply approach of a hand to the tube
stream and brush discharges, and imitation St. Elmo's tire,
phosphorescence of air and precious stones were also shown.
Prof. C. V. Boys, during the evening, showed his experi-
ments in photographing flying bullets. The moat novel
exhibit was that of colour photographs, by Mr. Frederick
Ives, of Philadelphia, an invention we had an oppor-
tunity of seeing at Mr. J. W, Swan's house at Bromley,
previously. The most interesting exhibit from the
electrical engineer's point of view at the Koyal Society
was, however, the new dynamo by Messrs. Pyke and
Harris. This has no moving coils and no moving
magnets ; the whole, except one turned ring, is
made of castings and stampings, and is therefore remark-
ably cheap. A hollow mitis metal shell is rendered
(joworfully magnetic by an inner coil. The projections
form the magnet poles, and those are surrounded
by ooila of wire screwed on. The electrical current is
obtained by rotating a sot of soft iron laminated pole-piecea
only between the north and south magnets, the cutting of
lines being thus obtained by the addition or subtraction of
the iron. The 100 light machine stands only 21in. high,
weighing seven hundredweight, and ia remarkably small.
All coils are safeguarded by cut outa, and there is nothing
to get out of order. Direct' current machines are also made
oil the same principle.
4^
TfiE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MaY 6. 189S.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
DIBBCT-CDBRENT DYNAMOS.— VL
BY B. W. WSKKES, WHIT.BCH.
The Two-Pok Inverted Type.—ThU shape o! field U now
used by a, large proportion of makerB. The great adran-
tase of the type is that with wrougbt-iron magnets the
bw'plate forms the yoke, and that when the dynamo is to
be roads of cast iron the roagnet« and bed-plate may even
be eaat aa a whole. In this type the poles are in such a
poeitton that all the leakage of magnetism takes place
through the air, which fact gives a distinct advantage in
material and workmanship over the two- pole upright type, in
which brass or zinc sole-plates are needed to prevent leakage
to the bed-plate. The magnetic pull on the armature, due
to the greater density of lines in the parts of the polar sur-
face nearest to the yoke, acts downwards, and increases the
preasure on the bearing. This can be overcome by placing
the armature so that its axis is slightly above that of the
bore of the field magnets. The distance between the arma-
ture core and the pole is then greater on the under side.
end of the magnet is then bolted into a recess in the
caatriron bed-plate. It is in the boring o( the magnet that
the advantage of this lamination is obtained. Instead of
removing the superfluous iron by successive cute till the
bore is of the diameter required, a thin tool is fixed to the
boring head at the proper radius. This then cuts round
the final diameter only, and the internal pieces fall oat as
each successive plate is pierced. Thus the boring is a more
rapid process than when solid slabs are used, and the
scraps are worth more. The poles are encased by thin
cast-iron caps, which gives a well-finished appearance
to the machine. The pedestals fit into recesses in
the bed-plate, and in the larger machines the bear-
ings are made adjustable, as described before. The
floor space and weight efiicienciea for both the motor-
generator and 26-kilowatt motor are good. It must be
remembered, when comparing the numbers on the list, that
belt-driven machines like these have the bed-plate included
in the weight, while most of the large-outpui dynamos are
direct-driven, and then the weight of the bed-plate u not
taken in. Hence these latter have the advantage, aod
should give the higher figures. These machines are the
and this causes a more equal distribution of lines of force.
The axis of rotation is much higher in a dynamo of this
type than in a machine of the upright form of magnets of
ec|Ual output. This makes the type unsuitable for coupling
direct to engines, but the height of the axis renders the
commutator easily accessible. It is worthy of note that
no makers use this inverted type of field magnet for large-
output dynamos, but it finds almost universal acceptance
for cast-iron machines.
The Electric Construction Coijioralivn. — The motor-gene-
rator made by this firm is the largest machine with this
type of field shown in the Exhibition. The general details
of it have been already given. The special feature in the
field magnets is that they are laminat^ for convenience of
manufacture, and also to secure uniformity of material,
which cannot be absolutely relied on when large forgings
are ased. The lamination would also reduce eddy currents
in the poles, if any were generated by the armature, as in
the toothed cored type. The wrought-iron magnets are
built up of plates, which vary in thickness according to the
sin of the machine, and are about 2in. thick in this case.
Thau are obtained of the exact width required, placed at
right angles to the axis of the machine, and then firmly
*iolt0i together. A distance-piece of wrought iron is
warted between them, thus forming the yoke. This
only ones exhibited of this type which have the completo
magnetic circuit made of wrought iron.
Messrs. Ernest Scott and Mountain show some two-pole
dynamos, driven by the Fielding gas engines. The distinct
feature in these machines is that the disc type of armature
is used. The frame is made of cast iron, but the magnets
cannot be cast on to the bed-plate owing to the shape of
the pole-pieces, which would not allow the exciting coils
to be slipped on. The pole-pieces are made to embrace the
armature core in a somewhat similar way to that adopted in
the larger four-pole machines made by this firm. The core
is made of thin rectangular iron wire wound on to a brass
centre till the cross-section is nearly square. Hr. Mountaiu
claims an advantage in making the length of core longer
than the depth, in the proportioii of about 6 to 4, and
he states that the E.M.F, produced per foot of armature
conductor is higher in these machines than in any wound
on the drum system. The great objection, however, is
that the armature cannot be withdrawn without taking
the magnets to pieces. In these two-pole machines the
upper half of the pole-piece is made to lift off. The two
parts have a faced surface where they join, and are keyed
together to ensure accuracy of fit. Thus all the lines
going to the upper half of the poles have to croas thia joint,
which places an additional resistauce in their pfttb. Tidt
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 6, 1892.
439
muBt incraase the magnetic pull on the hearings cod-
eiderably. The shaft rune in gunmetal hushes filled
in with white metal, and one end haa thrust rinf^ turned
on it to keep the armature core in the centre of the field. For
a cast iron dynamo the use of embracing poles causes an
unusual number of joints in the magnetic circuit (there
being four), and it ia very doubtful whetber the advantaee
of a shorter length of wire on the armature ia- worth the
extra magnetising power required in consequence. The
extra joints cause a lot of fitting work, and the boring
of the poles is a much more difficult operation than when
the drum armature is used. I was privileged to see the
works of this firm a few days ago, and noticed that they
are using the Gramme ring type of armature for some large
motors they are making to drive some pumps for a coal pit.
Messrs. Johnson and Phillips show a number of dynamoe
of this type on their stand in the centre court These
Kapp machines have been so often described in the various
text-books on dynamos that the details should be well
known. The magnet bars are slabs of wrought iron, which
are bolted into recesses in the bedplate. The cast-iron
bed-plate is specially thickened in the centre, where the
magnets join, so as to ofiier a low resistance to ths magnetic
are arranged so that the junction is maintained at a
potential difference of 70 and 130 volts from ths other
terminals respectively. This is to show the range of the
balancing power. When each external circuit takes equal
current, the motors run light, but directly the one side
takes more current than the other part of the excess current
returns through the machine in parallel with the other
circuit. This moehiiie then drives the other as a dynamo,
and by supplying the other part of the excess current,
tends to prevent any drop of voltage in the over-loaded
circuit due to the want of balance. This method works
exceedingly well, and such an equaliser can be used to
supply all the current to the zero wire in an installation
using the three-wire system. With two machines coupled
together as these are, it is comparatively easy to obtain
their commercial efficiency, and I understood that in this
particular case some satisfactory tests have been made.
The lioper Eledneal En^neering Company.— The 11-
kilowatt dynamo exhibited by this firm is well adapted for
manufacturing in quantity. It is a cast-iron machine, and
so designed that the magnets and bed-plate are one casting.
The advantages of this is that the magnetic circuit has
no joints in it, and hence magnetising power is saved. The
lines. The bushes in' the bearings are all made in two
halves so as to be adjustable for wear, and there is pro-
vision made in all the machines to prevent the
oil creeping along the spindle. This is very necessary
to preserve the insulation, and most makers now
|iay attention to this detail. The two smaller
Oramme-wound machines shown coupled together are an
example of an equaliser suitable for the three-wire system.
They are connected in series across the 200-volt circuit
from the large eight-pole dynamo, and the field streoftthi
magnets are of square section with the edge slightly rounded
ofi', and the poles are so arranged that the former carrying
the exciting coil can be slipped on easily. The square
contour of the exciting coils has evidently been decided on
because it is the most economical form next to the circle,
giving a shorter mean length of turn than any other
rectangular form. The method used of fitting the
pedestals to secure alignment is interesting. The
surfaces where the base of the pedestals fit on to the
bed-plate are circular, and of the same diameter as the
bores of the magnets, and concentric with it. These sur-
faces on the bed-plate are faced in a boring machine at the
same time as the magnets are being ^red out. The
pedestals are then turned to the same radius, and so
perfect alignment and concentricity should be ensured. In
theory the method is perfect, but in practice it is not easy
to eliminate all spring of the boring shaft or mandrel when
one suHace only is being cut The bearings are made long
to ensure cool running. The floor space and weight
efficiency given on the list for this machine are low. The
use of cast iron will account for this to some extent, and if
the dynamo is efficient it should find a good demand at the
low price for which it can be made.
Laurence, Scott, and Co. — The two-pole dynamo shown
by these makwa ii fitted with the Scott-Siilmg syitem of
440
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 6, 1882.
umature. It is intended to be used in an ingtallation
where accumnlators' are employed, eo as to charge them
and li^ht the lamps at the same time. To do this there are
two distinct sets of armature conductors and two commu-
tators. The main winding has a sufficient number of turns
to give the voltage required on the lamps, and also the full
current required from the machine for the lamps. The
second windit^has mucb fewer turns, and gives tfae
additional KIO*. required when charging the accumu-
lators. The two circuits are then connected in
series, and the lamp connection is by the same
movement switched from battery terminal, on to tfae
junction of tfae two armature circuits. The two
circuits in series then give the voltage required to charge
the batteries, wfaile the first commutator still supplies any
current necessary for the lamps. The thsory is good, but
the variable E.M.F. required to charge an accumulator
introduces difficulties whicfa cannot be so easily overcome
as in the common shunt dynamo, where the potential differ-
ence at the terminals rises as the E.M.F. of the batteries
rises. This is due to the increase in the strength of the
field, and hence the machine can be left without attendance.
In this case, if a similar course was adopted, and the
machine was simply shunt-wound, tfae rise in the E.M.F. of
the dynamo would occur in equal proportion in both
circuits, and hence the lamps would be overrun, so the
following precautions and innovations are adopted. The
machine is compound wound, and so the current going -to
tfae lamps does not disturb the balance, as its demagnetising
effect is thus counteracted. Tfaen the extra commutator
circuit is joined on at the brush side of the series-turns, so
that the batteries can never reverse tfae polarity of the
dynamo. Finally, the second circuit is wound to give
the highest extra voltage required to charge the accQ-
Lanrence, Scott, nnd Co.
mulators, and an adjusting resistance is introduced
in the main charging cirauit, to reduce the current when
tfae charging is first begun. The shunt winding thus always
gives a constant exciting power, if the attendant is careful
to regulate this resistance. The connection used may seem
rather complicated at first sight, but tfae system will
certainly reduce tfae faours of working the plant, and also
save the end batteries from being overcharged, as now
often occurs when counter E.M.F. cells are not used. The
dynamo is a compact, well-designed machine with a cast-
iron magnetic circuit, and a third bearing is introduced to
help take the strain of the driving belt.
A NEW SYSTEM OF ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION
AND TRANSMISSION.*
IIV RANKIN' KKNNKUV.
(Cmiel'iM fii.in ',••••!■■ ;.'.■:.;
The supply of two alternating currents in quadrature
phase is also available for working motors without com-
mutators. Now this is a very important matter. Ordinarj'
motors working with continuous currents, such ^s the little
one on the table, are no doubt very perfect machines and
do their work well and economically, but still there arc
instances in which a motor without a commutator is a very
desirable thing to use. One class of commutatorless motoi
is that known as Tesla's motor, and one known as Prof.
Ferraris's motor, and another known as Bradley's motor —
any of these motors can be used on this system of alter-
nating currents. These motors are on the same principle,
first discovered by Prof. Ferraris, and first enunciated by
him. Tfae priuciple is tfaat known as tfae rotary polar
principle.
A further development of this principle has been shown
recently at the Frankfort Exhibition, in which three
currents differing iu phase by I30deg. are used to work a
three-pfaase rotary polar motor without commutators. I
have here before me two models of commutatorless motors,
acting on quite different principles from those on which the
rotary polar motor acts, and they are expressly designed to
work with two currents in quadrature on this new system.
The first one. Fig, 5, has two pacts — a motor part. A, and
A transformer part, B. Tfae motor part consists of a ring
or drum armature in a two-pole field ; the transformer part
has the secondary winding on a drum with radial projec-
tions, C, each carrying a secondary coil, tfae two diametri-
cally opposite secondary coils are joined in series with each
other, and with one coil on the ring or drum armature of
the motor part, IX The field magnet of the motor part
\i excited by one of the two currents in quadrature, and
the primary magnet of the transformer part is excited by
the other current. ' The primary magnet of the transformer
part induces secondary currents in the coils on the radial
projections, and these induced currents energise tfae arma-
ture of the motor part, and the motor field is energised by a
current in quadrature with that energising the primary
magnet of the transformer, so that the magnetic flow
may coincide with the phase of the current in tfae
armature of the motor. The motor can now be started
to drive a small fan ; by a simple reversing key it can be
stopped, started, or reversed without the slightest trouble.
There is no commutator ' or brushes to attend to. It may
be boxed up, only two oil-cups to lubricate two bearings
requiring any attention. The other motor without a com-
mutator. Fig. 10, is designed to work with this system.
Iu tfals motor, as in that last described, induced currents
energise tfae armatures, of which there are two, A and B,
each having a separate field magnet, C and D. In its
simplest form this model shows the construction of this
motor. The fields are two pole-fields, and the armatures are
simple Siemens's old Hgirder shape form, well laminated. Tfae
two armatures are at right angles to each other on tfae sfaaft.
The fields are laminated and excited, one by the one current,
and the other by the other current used in this system. Now
tfae action of this arrangement is a little difficult to make
clear, altfaougfa it is very simple. The two fields being
separately excited, each by one of the two currents in
quadrature, one of them is always at its maximum induc-
tion when the other is at its minimum, and the two arma-
tures being at right angles to each other, one of them is in
a position to receive the maximum magnetic flow at the
instant the other is in a position to receive a minimum
magnetic flow. The two armature coils are coupled
together to form one closed coil ; under these conditions
the one armature, which is under maximum induction,
generates a current in its coil which also circulates in the
coil of the other armature, and the direction of these currents
are such as to polarise the armatures in the right
direction to cause a torque continually in one direction. In
actual working machines the construction Is rather different
from tfaat of this model. Tfaere are more tfaan two polea,
and the armatures have also more tban two poleii Doing
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAT 6, 1892.
441
drumB with outward radial projectione carrying the oner-
gising induction coils. This motor, like the last, has no
commutatDrB nor bniafaes, nor sliding or sparking contacts
of any kind ; it only requires lubricating at two journals to
keep it in perfect order.
It has now been shown how in this system the electrical
energy is sent out to sub-stations at high pressure, and is
there transformed down to low pressure, and supplied as a
continuous current, or as two ptusating cuirents, or as two
alternating currente in quadrature. You hare seen how
by two commutators and two transformers the continuous
current is derived, and also how the motive power is to be
^■f ff
nated induetors are marked C C The generators are low
pressure. There is, therefore, no danger in the generating
station, and the high-pressure currenta to deliver the energy
to the sulMtations are raised to h^h presBOie by step-up
transformers. The district immediately surrounding the
generating station can he beet snpplied at low pressure
direct from the generating station. The high-preasure
quadrature currenta are carried to the sub-rtations on
two wires, and have a comidon return wire. At the
sub-stations the high-pressure currents are reduced to
low-prenure by two transformers, and converted into coB-
tinuous current, either wholly or portly. A continuous-
fi,.i.
tnilATOII qUMtlUTUPlE
obtained, and the motors for the purpose, both with and
without commutators. Having now given a general outline
of the system and its chief apparatus, some particulars
regarding the generating station and the sub-stations can
now be considered. At the generating stations the dynamos
generate the two currents in quadrature. The dynamos
I have designed (or the purpose are shown by Figs. 6,
7, and 9. They are inductor dynamos, having no
moving coils, and generate the currents at low pres-
sure and moderately low frequency ; a frequency
under 40 per second being preferable where alternating
currents in quadrature are to be oonrnrted into so many
onrrent oircuit and two quadrature alternating-current
circuits may be sent out at low pressure from a substation.
At some sub-stations only two ^ternating currents in
quadrature would suffice for all the work ; at others, the
continuous current alone might be sent out ; and at others,
again, the two pulsating unidirection currenta, singly and
combined, on a four-wire system, can be sent out from the
sub-stations These are matters for judgment, only to be
settled for each case under consideration, but all these
methods are at the disposal of a supplying corporation
adopting this system. Storage batteries can be charged
at tJie snb-atations by the continnous current. If we refer to
different forms. These dynamos require to be double
machines in order to enable them to be worked without
induction in the exciting coils. The exciting coils on one
half are coupled in series with those on the other half,
BO that the induced E.M.F. in the one opposes the
induced E.M.F. in the other, and therefore there c<tii
be no cnrrent in the exciting coils dne to induction. By
this construction, it m3,y be interesting to explain, thnt
in these machines the same coils that are use<i f»r
exciting the machine can be simultaneously used as the
generating coils. The copper coils are roarKed A, B, and
the laminated magnets are marked D. The revolving lami-
Figs. 2 and 3, this current pulsates, but never falls below a
fixed value. So long as the counter KM.F. of the storage
battery never exceeds this fixed value changing goes on
steadily. Fig. 3 shows the arrangement of transformers
and commutators for converting the two currents into one
continuous current.
There is a method sometimes used for converting alter-
nating currents into continuous currents. In this method
there is used an alternating-current motor, driving a con-
tinuous current generator. Such a plan is open to the
objection that two very powerful machines are required.
If the maximum output iatov ^<»!fo\\■^^a.^■*^'e.t»^■^****
442
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 6, 1892.
of 100 h.p. muBt be conpled to a generator of 100 h. p. to
do the work of converBioD. ObWously, this would be a
yeiy inefficient combination, eapecially at under loade. In
the method used on the new Bystem a one-horse motor and
commutator would convert from 1 h.p. tol.OOO h.p, or more.
The motor requirea power sufficient to drive the commuta-
tors only. To apply the ayatem to BtAamahipB, where it
will be found of vast advantage, only the two alternating
currents in quadrature are required, and theee are of low
pressure — less than 100 volts — so that they are abaolutely
safe to touch. In modern steamships power is distributed
U a rule by steam pipes and small steam engines. In
some ships over a dozen small engines are employed for
various small power operations, such as pumps, fans,
capstans, etc. 'Diers is a system of distributing power by
water in pipes throughout steamships which has been
used to reduce the pressure to a safe limit for working the
motors and electric light in the mines. Even the self-
starting synchronising motor has this advantage over an
ordinary continuous motor in a mine, that after it is started
it runs without any attention to the commutators for a
long period of time, the commutator being cut out after the
start is made. So long as the load on bo(h circuits of the
new system is similar and equal, the phase di&erence is
maintained at quadrature. To ensure equality of load, the
various conBuming devices are always fed from both
circuits simultaneously. Two transformers, or one double-
wound transformer, is used for producing a single alter-
nating current for lighting purposes, one transformer for
each current. The primaries are connected, the one to the
one circuit and the other to the other circuit, and the
secondaries are connected in series with each other. I
adopted in some steamships — Brown's system in preference
to steam. Electrical distribution of power in steamships
would have advantages over both, more eapecially where
electric light is now so common on steamers. The same
plant can be used for power and lighting purposes. Instead
of steam-pipes led all over the ship, wires would be taken
from the generator of quadrature alternating currents in
the engine-room. And instead of a multiplicity of small,
wasteful, and troublesome steam engines, one good com-
pound or triple expansion engine in the engine-room driving
the dynamos would do all the work, commutatorless motors
being used to drive all the small powers before mentioned
throughout the ship.
Motors with commutators would, on account of the
attendance required and their liability to get out of order,
never be tolerated for power purposes on steamers, but
given a commutatorless motor, such as those here shown,
there can be no doubt of the success of power distribution
in steamships by electricity. The vrires transmitting the
power throughout a ship are chea]>er, less liable to
can uhow you this arrangement in action. (A Sunbeam lamp
worked from two transformers in this way was exhibited.)
Before concluding, it may be well to draw attention to a
little difficulty with the working of alternate currents, which,
although there is a remedy, is worthy of some attention.
Motors, when worked by alternating currents, act as in-
duction coils ; they take a large current, but this lai^
current' is not in step with the impressed E.M.F., and
therefore does not give the watts when it is multiplied by
the pressure. This large current is compounded of two
currents differing in phase by a quarter of a period ; one
part of this large current is in step with the pressure, and
the other is an exciting current, or magnetising current,
which lags a quarter of a period. This lagging current is
not produced by the dynamos at the central generating
station, but is produced by the self induction of the motors,
and is thereby drawn through the dynamos, and is at its
accidents, and, if broken, are easily and quickly repaired,
and these are all advantages over the steam and hydraulic
transmission of power. In mines the very same advantages
exist. Most elaborate arrangements have been proposed
for boxing in the dangerous commutator to enable a common
dynamo to work in mines, one proposal being to choke il
in a box of poisonous gases, another to run the brushes
inside the commutator. None of these proposals are
practicable. The only " perfect cure " is to abolish the
commutator altogether in motors fur steamships and mines,
and thereby get rid of the dangerous sparks, and at the
same time enable the motor to run on for long periods with
no other attention than that required to fill the lubricators.
In steamships high pressures are not required at all ; but in
mining work high-pressure feeders can be used with a great
saving in copper and electrical pressure. A transformer in
a cast-iron box, and completely immersed in oil, is then
maximum value when the G.M.F. of the dynamo is at a mini-
mum. These large currents, compounded of an active current
and a lagging current, do not represent correspondingly large
powers, but carrying capacity has to be provided for them
in the generators. Mr. James Swinburne has devised a
method of using electrical condensers whereby the troubles
due to these magnetising currents are entirely obviated,
and the lagging currents are drawn from the condensers
instead of through the dynamos.
ELECTRICITY AND THE NAVY.
At the Royal Uniteil Servica Institution on Wednoxlay, a paper
was read by Lieutenant F. T. Hamilton, R. N. , en " Electricity as
applied to Torpedo and olher Naval Purpoeefl." The paper de^t
with recent improvement* in vurioHS instruments in use, as woll
1?HE ELfiCTRtCAL EN(JiNJ:EiR, MAY 6, 1892.
44^
as with the application of electricity to new purposes, and was
illustrated by a'number of the instruments themselves, the use of
which was practically demonstrated by means of a secondary
battery of 40 cells, lent by the Electric Power and Storage Com-'
g&ny. The last lecture was delivered in May, 1885, by Commander
atten, since which time, said the lecturer, although little had
been learnt that was actually new about electricity, great
advances had been made in perfecting the methods of application,
and the material used became, better and cheaper every day, so
that its use for naval purposes had become more extended. At
one time there was a great tendency to elaborate most* intricate
machines, but more practical experience had shown that the
instruments and machines must be simple, and made in such
a way as to stand exposure and rough usage. Taking lighting
first^ it had become tne rule for internal lighting of men-of-war to
be by electricity, which was found to be economical, clean, and
convenient. A trial had been made of using the hull as a return,
but the disadvantage of the increased risk of a breakdown
outweighed the economical considerations, so that a complete
wire system was now always used. The search-light was
now always used, but some preferred a few powerful lights,
while others preferred several weaker ones, and a further difference
of opinion had arisen as to the elevation of the light. A later
modification had been portable lights which could b^ landed, and
be then controlled from the ship. He then touched upon the
improvements in secondary batteries, giving the following table
with reference to that which he was then using, as compart with
the older type made by the same firm :
Type.
Size of
plate.
Maximum
rate of
discharge.
Time
of
discharge.
Capacity.
Weight of
31 -plate cell
complete.
L(old) ...
K (new) ..
9 sq. in.
9 sq. in.
amperes.
4
8
hours.
9
3i
amp.*hours.
36
28
lbs.
286
357
The improvements had therefore given them a stronger and less
delicate cell, and one th^t could be charged and discharged at
double the former rate without injury, but they got this at a cost
of about 22 per cent, less capacity, and 33 uer cent, more weight.
The deterioration was now calculated at about 7j( to 15 per cent,
per annum. A light and efficient accumulator was a boon they
must look forwara to yet ; with it, steam launches would soon
become a thing of the past, and they would be within a measurable
distance of the flying machine. Electricity lent itself better than
anything else to purposes of telegraphy, although the difficulty
was the source of current. The current required should be large,
as the larger it was the less delicate the instruments need be ;
naturally, therefore, secondary batteries had been tried, but by
reason of their delicacy and the care required in their use they
were not altogether a success. Primary batteries, as being
more easily repaired or replaced, had been more largely
used, but it was difficult to get great power from them.
It was also proposed to work telegraphs with the direct
current from the dynamo machine. An instrument of this descrip-
tion had been invented by Mr. Richards, a constructor in the
Admiralty. It only took half the amount of current necessary to
light one lamp, and that only intermittently, whilst it was in
actual motion, and as in our modern ships there was ample dynamo
power, there seemed to be no objection to using the dynamo as the
source of electricity. This was, however, quite a new departure,
and we had not yet got any practical experience of its
working. The machine that was at present most commonly
in use was the Willis's, and the latest improvement of it, the
Willis and Robinson's telegraph. This instrument could be
worked either by secondary or by primary batteries. The
great point in its favour was that it could not be thrown
out of adjustment by being worked too rapidly, as the handle
was not in direct connection with the electric mechanism.
The fact of putting the handle over wound up, or extended, or
compressed a spring, which, in its turn, drove some clockwork ;
this made the contacts ; and no matter how angry or excited the
officer of the watch might be, the clockwork would only cause the
contacts to be made at a certain slow and deliberate pace, quite
fast enough for all practical purposes, but not so fast as to incur
any danger of upsetting the adjustments. Another good point
was that should this instrument show the wrong indication
through the handle being worked when the battery was discon-
nected for any purpose, or through any other cause, it would re-
adjust itself simply by putting the handle hard over. Instruments
of this description were used for engine-room telegraphs, helm tele-
graphs and indicators, and for distance indicators to telegraph the
distance of the enemy or target from the officer taking the range to
the guns. A large ironclad now being built at the Forges et Chantiers
de la Mediterranue was quite the most perfectly fitt^ ship, electri-
cally speaking, that had ever been built ; she had electricity for
everything. Among other things she was to be fitted with a most
elaborate system of telegraphs for all purposes. Messrs. Elliott
were now preparing the instruments ; they consisted of engine-
room telegraphs, helm telegraphs and indicators, distance indi-
cators ana telegraphs, and revolution indicators. These last were
very ingenious instruments, invented by 8pratt. The fact of
pressing a button on the side of the instrument cleared off any
former record, and started the clockwork, which went for 15
seconds. On the screw shaft was an electrical contact that was
made four times in each revolution ; at each Oontact the instrument
indicated one, so that, at the oompletioD of the 15 seconds, the
number shown was the number of revolations the engines were
making per minute. A difficulty with respect to logs had
always bMsen keeping the revolving contact water-tight ; this
had now been got over by Granville's log, in which Uie
armour of the vessel became one pole of the battery, and a
bar of plumbago on the log the other, the sea-water
bein^ the excitant. Another use of the telegraph they were
hearing a good deal about at present was for communication with
outlying lighthouses and lightships. There were two difficulties
in the way : first, that of getting the wire on board the lightships,
that must of necessity swing to the wind or tide, or through the
surf that was sure to be continually beating on the rocks round an
ojitlyinp^ lighthouse. Numerous water-tight swivel contacts had
been tried for the lightships— they were more or less satisfactory
for a time, but they constantly broke down ; and as for the light-
houses, no shore end of cable has yet been made with a sufficiently
heavy armouring to stand the action of a heavy surf on rocks for
very long. A plan had, however, been patented by the Telegraph
Construction and Maintenance Company, by which communication
could be made to both lighthouses and lightshipe without the
cable actually going on bo^rd them at all. The plan was this : A
twin cable was led out from the shore to within about a quarter of a
mile of the lighthouse or ship, the cores were then forked out,
and ended in large earth-plates about one-quarter of a mile
apart, one on either side of the place they wanted to telegraph to.
Two earth -plates were put overboard, one from either end of the
lightship, or on either side of the lighthouse. If now Morse signals
were sent along the twin cable from the shore, using an interrupted
current produced by a clockwork sounder, they could be distinctly
heard in a telephone on board the lightship. This plan was now
under trial, and, he was told, was likely to get over the difficulty
of communication. Electricity was very useful for signalling
with coloured lights and flashes, and for the latter use specitd
lamps had been made — one containing several very small fibres
which rapidly cooled, and the other consisting of a number
of fine fibres, each enclosed in a separate bulb, and kept at
a dull red heat by a weak current, thus shortening the time
required to bring them up to full brilliancy. The addition
of a resistance and a conoenser also did away with the other*
wise excessive sparking of the switch. Another application was
for range finding, when two telescopes, as far apart as possible,
were mounted on horizontal arcs, divided by thin wire let into
insulating materials. Attached to the telescope was a rubbing
contact that touched this wire ; the telescope pivots were joined
together through a battery, and connections were made between
the ends of the arcs so that the two portions of each on either side
of the telescopes formed the four arms of an electric balance, and
between the arms of the balance was placed a galvanometer to
indicate by its deflections when and to what extent the balance
was disturbed. Now, if these telescopes were moved along the
horizontal arc, the resistance that the arc presented to the passage
of the electric current was altered, but if the telescopes remained
parallel, the resistance in both arcs was altered to the same extent,
and the electric balance was undisturbed, and the galvanometer
did not move from the zero point, but the telescopes were only
parallel when the object to be observed was at an infinite distance.
Tlie galvanometer would be marked to correspond to the distances
indicated by the different angles at two telescopes. Reference was
then made to motors in connection with working the guns and
use on boats, of which two samples were given — boats of a type
recently buUt by the Electric rower and Traction Company,
at their works near Hampton — one, a pleasure vessel, was a
river yacht, 55ft. long and 8ft. 6in. beam. She carried three
tons of accumulators and machinery, consisting of 100 accumu*
lators of the B 15 type, having an output of 150 ampere*
hours. These cells could be fully charged in five hours, and
at the full speed at which the boat was driven they discharged
in seven hours, this giving a speed of seven or eight mUes
an hour, and developed about 5 h. p. A switch close to the steering
wheel was so arranged that it could go full or half speed ahead or
astern, the difference in speed being obtained by, in the case of
full speed, arranging the cells 50 in series and two in parallel, and
in the case of half speed, 25 in scries and four in parallel. The half
speed was about five knots. The propeller made between 700 and
800 revolutions a minute, its pitch being 16in. and diameter 20in.
All the accumulators and the motor were either in lockers, forming
seats, or under the bottom boards, so that the whole of the boat was
available for accommodation. The other boat, presumably for war
purposes, was similar to that shown at the Naval Exhibition, and two
had been recently sold to the Russian Government. There were two
points of advantage in the electrical boat over the steamboat that
nad not yet been noticed : first, that the former did not require to
carry any extra weight, such as coal and fresh water to keep the
engines going ; and secondly, that the weights in the electric boat
could be stowed to bettor advantage than in the steamboat, as it
did not matter where the batteries were placed, so long as they
were in the boat ; therefore, as they need not be high, they were
enabled to build a boat of deeper keel and consequently finer lines.
This advantage did not seem to have been made full use of yet ;
when it was, perhaps they might get rather better comparative
results between the two modes of propulsion. With respect to
torpedoes, the insulation of the cables was the great difficulty, and
what was wanted wad to hit^ off a mean which, wnilst giving a small
current and therefore light conductor, would not unduly increase
the E.M.F. beyond what the insulation of a flexible and light
cable was able to stand. In the end it would probably be found
that the users of this torpedo would have to rest satisfied with a
cable that would be efficient for one or two runs of the torpedo
only, but would not stand more use than that. This, of course,
meant extra expense— a small matter in war-time.
The paper was followed by a diBOOBsien.
444
THE EtEOTRlCAt EKGlNfifiR, MAY 6, 1892.
THE
bLECTRICAL ENGINEER.
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Notes 433
The Crystal Palace Exhibi-
tion 438
A New System of Electrical
Distribution and Trans-
mission 440
Electricity and the Navy ... 442
Bradford Tramways 444
Telephony 446, 446
The Metropolitan Company 445
Correspondence 446
A New Name 446
Experiments with Alternate
Currents of High Poten-
tial and Hiffh Frequency 448
The Bradfora Corporation
Electricity Supply 449
Companies* Meetinfj^s 453
Companies' Reports 454
New Companies Registered 455
Business Notes 455
Provisional Paten to, 1892 ... 456
Companies' Stock and Share
List 456
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BRADFORD TRAMWAYS.
From time to time brief references have been
made to the fact that at Bradford Mr. Holroyd
Smith was preparing an experimental electrical
tram line, under the auspices of the Town Council,
in order to prove that electricity might be substi-
tuted for •steam. Horse traction for tramways is
• almost an impossibility at Bradford, and steam is
generally used. There is, however, a general desire
to get rid of steam if it can be replaced by some-
thing with fewer disadvantages. Messrs. E as ton
and Anderson, the well-known engineers, have
carried out the experimental work. The authorities,
evidently with the intention of making a crucial test,
handed over some 650 yards of tramway just
in front of the Midland Station and Hotel, where
the gradient averages about 1 in 16, with
hardly a trace of level running. It is obviously
unfair for us to enter into minute criticism as to the
type of motors or gearing adopted for this experi-
mental work. The object of Messrs. Easton and
Anderson was to satisfy the authorities that this
incline could be safely negotiated under all con-
ditions. If they cannot do that, the temporary
installation spells so much lost ; if they can, the
authorities will, no doubt, be prepared to perma-
nently instal the system over a long length of line —
perhaps over their whole system. Thus the truck
and machinery of the car used weighs about six
tons, and is driven by two double-armature motors
and worm gear, with hand-brakes supplementary
to the natural motor brake. The current is taken
up by a trolley from an overhead conductor, and
after going through the motors gets to earth through
the wheels and tram rails. The motors can be
coupled in series or in multiple. Difficulties have
had to be encountered and overcome. The work of
putting up the overhead conductor and its connec-
tions has had to be mostly done a few hours at a
time by night, so as not to interfere with the
ordinary running of the tram or the street traffic.
The electric car will have for a month to take
its place among the running steam trams, and
if it performs satisfactorily the authorities will
admit the fact as proof of the suit'abihty
of electricity generally for tramway work. On
Monday last a number of gentlemen were invited
to be present at what may be termed a preliminary
trial, as the Board of Trade inspectors (General
Hutchinson and Major Cardew) were to have the
official trial on Tuesday. It is almost needless to
say that the car was running during the trials with-
out a hitch. It took the hill with ease, stopped and
started as required, was easily controlled in the
downward journey, and, when on the downward
journey left under the control of the motors them-
selves, simply started to be stopped, and stopped
to be started. In other words, the motors were
then driven by the car gravitation movement as
generators, and opposed the gravitation movement
of the car. Thus directly the car began to move
the motors acted and brought it up, then their
action stopped and gravitation again acted, and so on.
The movement down-hill would therefore be very
gradual, and by a series of jerks, if the car were
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 6, 1892.
445
left wholly under the control of the motors.
Desiring to have some indication of the power
absorbed while running up the incline, the car
was fully loaded with passengers, the total weight
of car and passengers being estimated at nine
tons, and with this load was run while the
instruments at the generating station were watched.
The current required is generated at the Bradford
central station (described by Mr. Shoolbred in
his paper before the Society of Arts, given elsewhere)
by two dynamos coupled in series giving 300 volts
pressure. It will sufl&ce to say that the maximum
current required when loaded as above, and running
up the steepest part of the incline, was 70 amperes —
say, a total of 28 h.p. There was, and is, and no
doubt will be, considerable discussion as to whether
the apparatus employed might not be modified and
lightened, but at present we have to do with facts,
and the facts are broadly as stated. It would have
been interesting, no doubt, to have carried out
further tests, but under the circumstances of
the trial time did not allow of this. Mr. Holroyd
Smith and Mr. Courtenay received the visitors
on behalf of Messrs. Easton and Anderson, and
Mr. Baynes, the electrical engineer of the central
station, gave all facilities for seeing the generating
plant. The work of the next month will be watched
with a vast amount of interest, and assuming, as
there is no difficulty in doing, the experiment to be
successful, the Bradford Corporation will have the
proud and unique position of being both first in the
field to supply the electric light and also in adopting
and supplying energy from the central station for
traction purposes.
TELEPHONY.
We give elsewhere in this issue an article which
seems destined to have an history. From internal
evidence it may almost be taken as an authoritative
statement on behalf of the National Telephone Com-
pany. Of course, we have no objection to the
National putting forward its view of the case. We
have always considered the present state of things
as a legacy left by the former management, and to
be a state that would probably never have arisen if
a broad policy for satisfying subscribers had from
the first been followed. Finance and watered
capital have proved millstones round the neck of
the company, and those who cried out against State
monopoly are now crying out against competition.
In the manifesto we have the history as seen from
the National Company's point of view of its business
transactions and connections with the postal tele-
graph authorities. The Postmasters-General come
in for some hard knocks, but then that forms part of
their perquisites, and we cannot expect a private
company either to acknowledge the Government to
be in the right, or that a competing company ought
to exist. However, we have always held that two tele-
phone companies cannot satisfactorily exist in the same
town. That view remains, but the only way to get rid
of incompetent service, of high charges, of an imper-
fect system, is by open competition. A meeting of
" The Association for the Protection of Telephone
Subscribers " was held yesterday. The association
was formed because of high-handed proceedings of
the company, because grievances were pooh-poohed,
and because subscribers were paying for services
they did not get. The mere existence of such an
association shows the wrong policy has been pursued,
and though this manifesto may carry conviction to
those that require no convincing, it will probably
fail to convince men of discernment.
THE METROPOUTAN COMPANY.
The meeting of the Metropolitan Company is
held to-day. It will be an important one, inasmuch
as more money is wanted. We understand that
some severe criticisms have been urged against the
balance-sheet, and that it is favourable because it must
be so in order to get more money. If it is any con-
solation to the shareholders or to the investing public
to have a companies' finance barometer, we would
point out that Messrs. Pender, Anderson, and Go.
are always on hand whilst fine weather is likely to
prevail, and being behind the scenes, always manage
an excuse for leaving when rough weather looms ahead^
These gentlemen are keeping up their connection
with the company, so it is pretty certain that in
their estimation the sailing prospect is fairly satisfac-
tor}^ Of course, the balance-sheet does not make
much of a show as yet, but then time is young, and
it certainly is something to be able to say that in a
year the lamp connections rose from 48,000 8-c.p.
lamps to 82,000, and now has reached 96,000, or
double what it was in January, 1891. It may be
well to compare the present with last year's accounts
in a few particulars. The accounts given last April
were for fifteen months, but for comparison we have
roughly reduced them to twelve months. Thus the
coal bill for 1891 was £10,000, for 1892 it is Jei3,700
(the nearest hundreds are taken) firom which we
gather the largest addition to lamps wired was made
towards the close of the financial year. Similarly,
oil, etc., in 1891 cost Jtl,760, in 1892 cost £2,560 ;
taking the whole cost of generation, 1891 shows
at £17,000, in 1892 at £28,700. Distribution in
1891 cost £48, in 1892 it cost £163 ; other
expenditure in revenue account in 1891 brought
the total to £22,000, against £34,000 in 1892.
The receipts for the past year, including a pay-
ment of £3,027 by the contractors, reached the
sum of £43,747, showing a balance over expen-
diture of £9,719. If we were disposed to be hyper-
critical, we might suggest that nothing is allowed for
depreciation in these accounts, but such criticism
would no doubt be met with the assertion that all
repairs were paid out of revenue, and the whole
plant was kept in the highest possible state of
efficiency. A conundrum might be put with regard
to one item : When is a loan not a loan ? For in
one place we are told the amount of loan capital is
nil, in another it is £9,606. It may be permissible
in early days to make preliminary expenses answerable
for a multitude of sins, but in the accounts the amounts
should be wiped out as soon as possible. There is just
a slight tendency to be querulous over the general
balance-sheet. . The temporary loan seems very
446
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 6, 1892.
much as if money had to be borrowed to pay
dividends, as it is very similar to net profit. Thus,
loan Je9,606, profit £9,719. Take away the loan
and the cash balance is only ;£4,600, while the
indebtedness is £23,000, against £15,500 to be
received. However, the one point of importance is
the revenue account. Here, if the distribution of
expenses has been properly made, is shown a profit,
and with increasing business this should be an
increasing profit.
CORRESPONDENCE.
" One man's word is no man's word,
Justice needs that both be heard."
BIDEFORD LIGHTING.
Sir, — In the current number of the Electrical Engineer
you have a short note on the public lighting of Bideford.
Some weeks ago there appeared an advertisement in
your juvenile contemporary Lightning, inviting competitive
schemes for an electric light installation, and, probably in
common with many others, I wrote to the town clerk
asking for further information and details. Receiving no
reply, I wrote again about a fortnight later, and was then
informed that the time for sending in schemes had lapsed.
I have seen nothing in the technical press since, until
your note, which appears to show that some of the inhabi-
tants of Bideford, at all events, are still very much in the
dark as to their own town clerk's doings.
Can you kindly inform me :
1. Whether any schemes or tenders were received ?
2. If so, who reported upon them, and with what result ?
On the face of it, it seems as if the local gas interest had
managed things very well for their industry. — Yours, etc.,
London, May 2, 1892. Semper Viuilans.
[Our correspondent may find out that the local gas
interest has nothing to do with the matter. The con-
temporary referred to, like other contemporaries, is under
the control of electrical engineers, and if the members of
the industry imagine that papers so controlled are going to
play into other hands — well, they must be very simple.
So far as we know, the Electrical Review and the Electrical
Engineer are the only two technical electrical papers not so
controlled. None of the other electrical papers hardly
dare say " boo " to a goose — in certain proprietary direc-
tions.— Ed. E. E.]
TELEPHONY.
A NEW NAME.
We have received from the Board of Trade a copy of
tho fourth schedule to provisional orders under the Electric
Lighting Acts, and attention is called to the new name
which has been given to the unit of supply by the Board
of Trade :
"Fourth Schedule.
" In this schedule the expression * kelvin ' shall mean
the energy contained in a current of 1,000 amperes flowing
under an E.M.F. of one volt during one hour.
" Section 1. — Where the undertakers charge any consumer
by the actual amount of energy supplied to him, they shall
be entitled to charge him at the following rates per quarter:
For any amount up to 20 kelvins, I3s. 4d., and for each
kelvin over 20 kelvins, 8d.
^* Section 2. — Where the undertakers charge any consumer
by the electrical quantity contained in the supply given to
him, they shall be entitled to charge him according to the
rates set forth in Section 1 of this schedule, the amount
of energy supplied to him being taken to be the product
of such electrical quantity and the declared pressure at the
consumer's terminals — that is to say, such a constant
pressure at those terminals as may be declared by the
ndertakers under any regulations made under this order."
AprU 25, 1892,— The decision of the Exchequer Division
of the High Court of Justice in 1880 that the telephone
was a telegraph, placed its public use under the control of
the Postmaster-General, who granted licenses to the tele-
phone companies of an extremely restricted character, con-
fining the use of telephone exchanges to limited areas
around a small selected number of towns, outside which the
companies could not give the advantage of the telephone
without the special sanction of the Postmaster-General in
each individual case. This sanction was never g^iven
excepting upon extremely onerous conditions — conditions,
indeed, so onerous as to be in most cases prohibitive.
Anyone wishing to be a subscriber to an exchange system,
say, of five miles radius, who happened to be even a few
yards outside of the area, could not be connected with the
telephone system within it excepting on condition that his
wire should be carried to the central exchange of the
system, even though there might be a sub-exchange forming
part of the system close to the boundary, and the Post
Office, moreover, insisted upon the payment of a higher
royalty than that ordinarily charged upon each such special
connection, generally from 12^ to 15 per cent. The
effect was that although, but for the limitation above
described, an ultra-radial subscriber might have been con-
nected with the telephone system by a very short line at
the minimum exchange tariff, he had instead, when the
system was within, say, a five-mile area, to pay for a con-
nection of over five miles in length to the central exchange,
as well as the Post Office royalty of 12 J to 15 per cent.,
and was consequently placed in an entirely different
position to subscribers within the licensed areas. It was,
however, arranged, eventually, that a subscriber outside
the radius might be connected with the nearest exchange
within the telephone area, provided the Postmaster-General
was paid his royalty upon such a length of wire as would
have been necessary if it had actually been run to the
central exchange. It will thus be seen that beyond the
favoured areas the Post Office practically deprived the
public of the advantageous use of the telephone.
For sometime the department refused to allow telephonic
communication between the subscribers in the different
licensed telephone areas upon any terms, but at last gave
way to the extent that it undertook, subject to a special
arrangement in each case, to connect certain town areas.
The conditions attached to this concession were, that the
department should charge a certain rental for each wire,
that the company should not allow the use of the wire to
more than eight persons; that each person should be charged
one-eighth part of the rental of the wire and no more ; and
that if the number of subscribers was less than eight the
company should pay to the Postmaster-General the full
rental of the wire. The effect of these conditions was that
the company could not gain upon the wire rental from the
department under any circumstances, and that, if it could
not keep up the full number of subscribers allowed by the
department, it must necessarily work this branch of its
business at a loss, and, in fact, it mostly resulted in a very
heavy loss. Such was the spirit tenaciously maintained by
the department in its dealings with the telephone companies,
a spirit which could not be approved by any fair and
liberal-minded man, until, happily, a statesman of broad
views, influenced by a just and liberal animus, became the
political head of the Post Office. Mr. Fawcett saw that
the system then prevailing deprived the public of the
legitimate use of the telephone, placing the inhabitants
within and without the licensed areas in entirely different
positions, and, in order to place all sections of the popu-
lation upon a parallel footing, and not to hamper legitimate
telephonic enterprise, he arranged with the companies for
the issue, in November, 1884, of an entirely new license,
which enabled them to exploit the telephone, and to run
wires in every part of the country upon the same con-
ditions. He thus abrogated the restrictions inseparable
from the plan of licensed areas, and gave the companies
power to meet the most manifest public telephonic wants
irrespective of regard to locality. After this time the
telephone companies proceeded with vigour to build up a
I business strictly in accordance with the cooditiooB of the
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 6, 1892.
447
new license, and in which exchange systems in towns and
villages, and trunk lines connecting those systems with
each other, were inextricably interlaced and conjoined.
Finding that the difficulties in the way of a number of
companies working the telephone in different large districts,
arranging for the proper erection and efficient working of
the trunk lines which connected them, and for harmony
of management in other respects, were extremely great,
and led to delay in perfecting such a system as the
public had a right to expect from those who exploited the
telephone, it was found expedient to amalgamate the
principal telephone companies. This plan of amalgama-
tion, at which the Postmaster-General chose to take offence,
was also strictly within the lines of the new license.
The result is that the National Telephone Company,
which, with its two subsidiary companies, the Western
Counties and South Wales Telephone Company, Limited,
and the Telephone Company of Ireland, Limited, does over
90 per cent, of the telephone business of the country, and,
taking legitimate advantage of the powers bestowed upon
it by the Postmaster-Generars license, has put all the
principal towns of Scotland, and most of the small ones,
into telephonic communication with ea«h other ; has con-
nected the industrial districts of England in a similar
manner, and is now about to join telephonically the great
business centres of England and Scotland, thus putting its
subscribers in such a position that they have the power of
carrying on important business converse with each other,
not only within each industrial town of every business
locality, but also of exchanging communications with sub-
scribers in towns far apart from each other. The necessary
consequence of this action of the National Telephone
Company is that those invited to become subscribers to
new telephone companies, finding that they can only com-
municate with a small number of people in a limited area,
and cannot be given the advantage of telephonic communi-
cation with outside industrial towns, prefer the wider and
greater facilities given by the National Telephone Company.
Necessarily these facts give to the National Company, as
the result of its enterprise, and of over 12 years of effort, a
great and legitimate advantage.
Various rivals have cropped up and have, in common
with the Postmaster-General, suffered in their competition
with the successful undertaking of the National Telephone
Company, having been unable to make satisfactory head-
way against it. This being the case the department, sup-
ported by the Postmaster-General, and apparently in
conjunction with the National Company's rivals, has put
before the National Company certain proposals involving
the absolute surrender by the company of all the conditions
of advantage above described — that is to say, of its trunk
system and of the strength it derives from the large
number of its exchange subscribers. The Postmaster-
General requires the National Company not onlv to sell to
the department its trunk system, which would be imme-
diately used for the benefit of all its rivals as well as of itself,
but also demands that every telephone company starting
in opposition to the National Company, however small,
shall be helped in its opposition by the privilege of being
able to communicate through the instrumentality of the
surrendered trunk lines, with the whole of the National
Company's exchange subscribers.
The Postmaster-General thus seeks at one blow to
deprive the National Company of the goodwill of a business
which is the growth of many years, and to distribute it
amongst the company's rivals, including the Post Office
itself. He offers the company no equivalent for submission
to this levelling and confiscatory process.
To our rivals, who have no trunk lines, and who there-
fore have nothing to surrender, and have either none or
but few subscribers, he offers certain wayleaves and other
facilities for the conduct of their business, and with a show
of impartiality he offers the same facilities to us ; but to
our rivals he offers an equal share with ourselves in the
use of our trunk lines, which he requires us to surrender, and
of the advantage of communication with all our over 40,000
subscribers, thus requiring us to aid and stimulate their
opposition. To us he gives no relative advantage, but just
the same facilities neutralised manifold by what he takes
from us. They receive the facilities plus what he deprives
I
us of to give to them. We receive them minus what he
would wrench from us to give to them. He offers them pros-
perity, and he deliberately and of purpose does so at our
expense. He professes to propound a scheme that is fair
and impartial, but which is so devised that the National
Company cannot accept it without grave injury, whilst it
gives the National Company's rivals every advantage they
could possibly desire. The Postmaster-General, in his
speech of the 29th March, having proposed this scheme
alike to those it will benefit and those it will injure, tries
to force its acceptance upon those who he and the Chancellor
of the Exchequer know will be wronged by it, by threaten-
ing to withhold wayleaves and other facilities from any
company which does not accept the Postmaster-General's
entire scheme. The following are the words of the Post-
master-general in the House of Commons : " A new com-
pany, with no trunk lines, could not compete with an
older company that had trunk lines, (and) whilst the Govern-
ment proposed that the companies should be allowed, by
becoming connected with the Post Office, to achieve a new
development in their industry, they only intended to grant
the privilege to companies that were ready to join in a
system of free and unrestricted communication," so that
unless the National Company agrees to assist every
opponent by the surrender of its trunk lines, and the
advantage in competition it derives from the extent of its
enterprise, it will be refused the powers necessary to the
proper conduct of its business, which will be given freely
to others. It is necessary, therefore, to strip the mask
from the pretence of impartiality, under which it is pro-
posed to inflict great injustice. That the Government
know full well what is they ask the National Company to
give up is shown from the following paragraph from the
speech of the Chancellor of the Exchequer : " It is
necessary that the Government should take the trunk lines
into their hands. If that wore not done, they could not
have that competition which it was desired they should
secure. While the National Company had a monopoly it
was impossible for the other lines to compete. A telephone
circuit was only half useful unless it was put into telephonic
communication with the rest of the country, and unless
that were done the people of a locality not in communica-
tion with the whole of the country would be only half
served, and therefore it was why, in one sense, the Govern-
ment would have to take the trunk lines into their own
hands as a means by which to secure free trade." He
stigmatises the advantage which the National Company has
gained by its enterprise as a monopoly, in order to cover
the insidious policy propounded as a measure of free trade,
but the public is the eventual arbiter in such matters, and
to public opinion, in case of necessity, we shall appeal.
If the National Company had done that which it was
not justified in doing by its license some such policy as
that shadowed out in the speeches of Sir James Ferguson
and Mr. Goschen might probably receive the support of
the public, but as the National Company has most probably
endeavoured to make use of its privileges to make the
telephone of as much value as possible to the public, there
is no justification for the attempt to penalise it with a
special view to aid rivals who are acting in harmony with
the department. The whole scheme of the Postmaster-
General is retrogressive. To carry it out, a distinction will
again have to be made between those who use the telephone
within given town areas and those who are outside of those
areas, to the detriment of the latter, whilst the dual
responsibility of the Government and the companies for
the joint connection of the telephone exchanges and the
trunk system, and the delay that must necessarily arise
through having to make connections between the depart-
ments and the company's wires each time a trunk call is to
be made, must lessen the advantage of the trunk and
exchange systems to the community. And all this is
sought to be done because the National Company can only
be beaten by a combination between the Post Office and
the National Company's rivals. With these facts before it,
the public will not be surprised should the National Com-
pany decide not to surrender its advantages at the bidding
of a hostile department, and prefer to combat the depart-
ment and all-comers, i-ather than make a weak and cowardly
surrender to an unfair and unjustifiable demand.
448
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 6, 1892.
EXPERIMENTS WITH ALTERNATE CURRENTS OF
HIGH POTENTIAL AND HIGH FREQUENCY.*
BY NIKOLA TKSIA.
< UautimUil froia paye 4i!>.)
oond acting slactrode. j— _ — r-- . - , .
K balb hftving no leadlng-m wire abonld be used. I have found il
belt to use bulbt coaitruot«d as Indicated in FigB. 12 and 13. In
Fig. 12 the bulb ooraprisea an inoandewjent lamp frlobe, L, in the
neck of which !■ sealed a barometer tube, b, the end of which
U blown out to form a bhulU sphere, a. This sphere should be
sealed as closely m possible in the centre of the large globe.
Before sealing, a Uiin tube, i, of aluminium sheet may be
slipped in the bkrometer tube, but it ia not important to employ
it. The small hoUow sphere, «, U filled with nomo conducting
powder, and a wire, ir, is oemsnted in the neck for tbe purpose
of connecting the conducting powder with the generator. ""-*
* ■■'--■ -•-- — -■- ^'- 13 - -■- '- — '— '
couBt ruction showi
iFig
The
L tube, 6, and small (rphera.
Fifl. 12.— Bulb for Producing Rotating Brush.
Mdentiflo inveatigatoi
any of the resDlts wh
thu evening, It may
■tigator may perhaps appear mora Interastiog than
ilts which I have the privilege to present to you
It may be quite property ranked among the brush
Kkis. 14 ASi> 15.— Forma and Phases of the Rotating Brush.
4, sealed to it, so that two entirely independent compartmente
are formed, as indicated in the drawini;. When the Dulb is in
use, the neck, n, ia provided with a tinfoil coating, which is con-
nected to the frenerstbr, and acts inductively upon the moderately
rarefied and highly conducting gas encloi'ed id the neck. From
there tbe current passes througk the tul>e. h, into the small sphere,
n, to act by induction upon the i;aB contained in the globe, L. It
ie of advantage to make the tube, i, very thick, the hole through
it very amall, and to blow the sphere, ', very thin. It is of the
greatest importance tliat the sphere. ', he placed in the centra of
the globe. L. Fif^a. U, 15, and id indicate difi'erent forms
or Bt^es of the brush. Fig. U shows the brush an it first appears
in a bulb provided witli a conducting terminal ; but as in such a
bulb it very soon disappears — often in a few minuten — I will confine
myself to the descri)>tlon of the phenomenon an seen in a bulb with-
Flii. 1.1,— Rulb for Producing Rotating Brush.
phenomena — in fact, it ia a hiuah formed at, or near, a single I
terminal in high vacuum. In hulba provided with a conducting
terminal, though it be of aluminium, the brunh has but an
* Lecture delivered before the Institution of Electrioal
Engineers at the Royal Institution, on \^'edneIMlay evening,
Fe&ruory 3, llJ9-J. From the Journai of the Institution of
"'Jectri<wl Engineers.
Fii;. Hi.-
'hnne of the Rntnting liru«h.
out conducting electrode. It in observe<l under the following con-
ditions ; When tlie g|obo, L [FiKa. I- and l:i). ia evhuualed to
a very hi^li degree, generally the bull) is not excited upon
(xjnnecting the wiie, "■ (Fig. I'i), or the tinfoil coating of the
bulb. Fig. l:i, to tlie terminal of the induction coil. To e\citi>
it, JH m usually HuHicient to grasp the globe, U with the hand.
An intense phoaphocenceoce then spreads at first over the globe,
but soon.givee place to a white mUty light. Shortly aftar-
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 6, 1892.
449
wards one may notice that the luminosity is unevenly distributed
in the globe, and after passing the current for some time the
bulb appears as in Fig. 15. From this stage the phenomenon
will gradually pass to that indicated in Fie. 16, after some
minutes, hours, days, or weeks, according how the bulb is worked.
Warming the bulb or increasing the potential hastens the transit.
When the brush assumes the form indicated in Fig. 16, it may be
brought to a state of extreme sensitiveness to electrostatic and
magnetic influence. The bulb hangine straight down from a wire,
ana all objects being remote from it, the approach of the observer
at a few paces from the bulb will cause tne brush to fly to the
opposite side, and if he walks around the bulb it will always keep
on the opposite side. It may begin to spin around the terminal
long before it reaches that sensitive stage. When it begins to turn
around principallv, but also before, it is affected by a magnet, and
a certain stage it is susceptible to magnetic influence to an astonish-
ing degree. A small permanent magnet, with its poles at a distance
of no more than two centimetres, will affect it visibly at a distance
of two metres, slowing down or accelerating the rotation according
to how it is held relatively to the brush. I think I have observed
that at the stage when it is most sensitive to magnetic, it is not
most sensitive to electrostatic influence. My explanation is,
that the electrostatic attraction between the brush and the glass
of the bulb, which retards the rotation, (srows much quicker
than the magnetic influence when the intensity of the stream
is increased. When the bulb hangs with the globe, L, down,
the rotation is always clockwise. In the southern hemisphere it
would occur in the opposite direction, and on the equator the
brush should not turn at all. The rotation may be reversed by a
magnet kept at some distance. The brush rotates, seemingly, best
when it is at right angles to the lines of force of the earth. It verv
likely rotates, when at its maximum speed, in synchronism with
the alternations, say 10,000 times a second. The rotation can be
slowed down or accelerated by the approach or receding of the
observer, or any conducting body, but it cannot be reversed by
putting the bulb in any position. When it is in the state of the
highest sensitiveness, and the potential or frequency be vanM,
the sensitiveness is rapidly diminished. Changing either of these
but little will generally stop the rotation. The sensitiveness is
likewise affected by the variations of temperature. To attain
great sensitiveness it is necessary to have the small sphere, «, in
the centre of the globe, L, as otherwise the electrostatic action
of the glass of the globe will tend to stop the rotation. The
sphere, «, should be small and of uniform thickness : any dis-
symmetry, of course, has the effect to diminish the sensitiveness.
The fact that the brush rotates in a deflnite direction in a
permanent magnetic field seems to show that in alternating
currents of very high frequency the positive and negative im-
pulses are not equal, but that one always preponderates over the
other. Of course this rotation in one direction may be due to the
action of two elements of the same current upon each other, or
to the action of the field produced by one of the elements upon
the other, as in a series motor, without Yiecessarily one impulse
being stronger than the other. The fact that the brush turns, as
far as I could observe, in any position, would speak for this view.
In such case it would turn at any point of the earth's surface.
But, on the other hand, it is then hard to explain why a permanent
magnet should reverse the rotation, and one must assume the
preponderance of impulses of one kind.
As to the causes of the formation of the brush or stream,
I think it is due to the electrostatic action of the globe and the
dissymmetry of the parts. If the small bulb, -s and the globe, L,
were perfect concentric spheres, and the glass throughout of the
same thickness and quality, I think the brush would not form, as
the tendency to pass would be equal on all sides. That the
formation of the stream is due to an irregularity is apparent from
the fact that it has the tendency to remain in one position, and
rotation occurs most generally only when it is brought out of this
position by electrostatic or magnetic influence. When in an
extremely sensitive state it rests in one position, most curious
experiments may be performed with it. For instance, the experi-
menter may, by selecting a proper position, approach the hand at
a certain considerable distance to the bulb, and he may cause the
brush to pass off by merely stiffening the muscles of the arm.
When it begins to rotate slowly, and the hands are held at a
proper distance, it is impossible to make even the slightest motion
witnout producing a visible effect upon the brush. A metal plate
connected to the other terminal of the coil affects it at great
distance, slowing down the rotation often to one turn a second.
I am firmly convinced that such a brush, when we learn how
to produce it properly, will prove a valuable aid in the investiga-
tion of the nature of the forces acting in an electrostatic or
magnetic field. If there is any motion which is measurable
going on in the space, such a brush ought to reveal it. It is, ^ so
to speak, a beam of light, frictionless, devoid of inertia. I think
that it may find practical applications in telegraphy. With such
a brush it would be possible to send despatches across the Atlantic,
for instance, with any speed, since its sensitiveness may be so great
that the slightest changes will affect it. If it were possible to
make the stream more intense and very narrow, its deflections
could be easily photographed. I have been interested to find
whether there is a rotation of the stream itself, or whether there
is simply a stress travelling around in the bulb. For this purpose
I mounted a light mica fan so tliat iU vanes were in the path of
the brush. If the stream itself was rotating, the fan would be
spun around. I could produce no distinct rotation of the fan,
although 1 tried the experiment repeatedly ; but as the fan exerted
a noticeable intluenoc on the stream, and the apparent rotation of
the latter was in this case never (|uite satisfactory, the experiment
did not appear to be conclusive. I have been unable to produce
the phenomenon with the disruptive discharge coil, although eveiy
other of these phenomena can be well proauced by it — many, in
fact, much better than with coils operated from an alternator. It
may be possible to produce the brush by impulses of one direction,
or even by a steady potential, in which case it would be still more
sensitive to magnetic influence.
In operating an induction coil with rapidly alternating currents,
we realise with astonishment, for the first time, the great import-
ance of the relation of capacity, self-induction, and frequency as
regards the general result. The effects of capacity are the most
striking, for in these experiments, since the self-induction and
frequency both are high, the critical capacity is very small, and
need be but slightly varied to produce a very considerable change.
The experimenter may bring his body in contact with the
terminals of the secondary of the coil, or attach to one or both
terminals insulated bodies of very small bulk, such as bulbs, and
he may produce a considerable rise or fall of potential, and greatly
affect the flow of the current through the primary, in the
experiment before shown, in which a brush appears at a wire
attached to one terminad, and the wire is viorated when the
experimenter brings his insulated body in contact with the
other terminal of the coil, the sudden rise of potential was made
evident.
I may show you the behaviour of the coil in another manner
which possesses a feature of some interest. I have here a little
light fan of aluminium sheet, fastened to a needle and arranged to
rotate freely in a metal piece screwed to one of the terminals of
the coil. When the coil is set to work, the molecules of the air
are rhythmically attracted and repelled. As the force with which
they are repelled is greater than that with which they are
attracted, it results tnat there is a repulsion exerted on the
surfaces of the fan. If the fan were made simply of a metal
sheet, the repulsion would be equal on the opposite sides, and
would produce no effect. But if one of the opposing surfaces is
screened, or if, generally speaking, the bombarament on this side
is weakened in some way or other, there remains the repulsion
exerted upon the other, and the fan is set in rotation. The
screening is best effected by fastening upon one of the opposing
sides of the fan insulated conducting coatings, or, if the fan is
made in the shape of an ordinary propeller screw, by fastening on
one side, and close to it, an insulated metal plate. The static
screen may, however, be omitted, and simply a thickness of
insulating material fastened to one of the sides of the fan.
To show the behaviour of the coil, the fan may be placed
upon the terminal and it will readily rotate when the coil is
operated by currents of very high frequency. With a steady
potential, of course, and even witn alternating currents of very
low frequency, it would not turn, because of the very slow
exchange of air, and consequently smaller bombardment ; but
in the latter case it might turn if the potential were excessive.
With a pih wheel, quite the opposite rule holds good ; it rotates
best with a steady potential, and the effort is the smaller the
higher the frequency. Now it is very easy to adjust the
conditions so tnat the potential is normally not sufficient to
turn the fan, but that by connecting the other terminal of the
coil with an insulated body it rises to a much greater value, so as
to rotate the fan, and it is likewise possible to stop the rotation by
connecting to the terminal a body of different size, thereby
diminlBhing the potential. Instead of using the fan in this
experiment we may use the '* electric " radiometer with similar
effect. But in this case it will be' found that the vanes will rotate
only at high exhaustion or at ordinary pressures ; they will not
rotat-e at moderat'C pressures, when the air is highly conducting.
This curious observation was made conjointly by Prof. Crookes
and myself. I attribute the result to the high conductivity of the
air, the molecules of which then do not act as independent carriers
of electric charges, but act all together as a single conducting
body. In such case, of course, if there is any repulsion at all (S
the molecules from the vanes, it must be very small. It is possible,
however, that the result is in part due to the fact that the greater
part of the discharge passes from the leading-in wire through the
highly-conducting gas, instead of passing off from the conducting
vanes. In trying the preceding experiment with the electric radio-
meter the potential snould not exceed a certain limit, as then the
electrostatic attraction between ihe vanes and the glass of the
bulb may be so great as to stop the rotation.
(Tit be continued.)
THE BRADFORD CORPORATION ELECTRICITY
SUPPLY.
\\\ JAMKS N. SKOOLBRKI), B.A., M.I.C.K.
In the early part of 1888, the Corporation of Bradford, respond-
ing to the expressed desire of a numoer of their ratepayers, decided
to provide a supply of electricity, in accordance witn the Bradford
Electric Lighting Provisional Order, 1883, for that portion of the
centre of the town which had been approved of by the Board of
Trade, under the title of the '* Compulsory Area "of the order.
The preparation of the plans, and the superintendence of the
works necessary to carry out the above decision, were entrusted to
the author, who, as the consulting electrical engineer of the Cor-
poration, had acted as their technical adviser throughout the
earlier stages, while obtaining their provisional order.
* Paper road before the Society ofJArte.
450
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 6, 1892.
After mature and careful consideration, it was decided to adopt
the system of continuous current, Konerated at low pressure, and dis-
tributed direct to the houses on toe two-wire parallel arrangement
(at first, at least), but which could, later on, when the increase in the
demand as well as in the distance of the distribution, l)e so modified
as to meet those requirements. In arriving at this decision, it was felt
that the ''continuous'* current offered a number of industrial appli-
cations, such as motive power, electro-deposition, storage, and
others, peculiarly suited to the needs of a manufacturing town
like Bradford ; all of which would have been excluded oy the
selection of the ''alternating" current, limited only to lighting.
While, again, with the " continuous " current, the use of the
secondary battery (not possible with the " alternating " current)
afforded, not merely a large reserve of power for use during the
night, and at such times of the day when it was also net desirable
to run the engines and dynamos owing to the smallness of the
demand, but sdso a most useful regulator acting upon the steadi-
ness of the supply, and counteracting or mitigating any irregu-
larity in the action of the steam engines and other parts of the
machinery. The value of such a reserve as the storage battery, in
case of any interruption or diminution in efiiciency, through the
sudden stoppage of any ()ortion of the generating machinery,
whether designedly or by accident, can hardly be appreciated.
The financial economy due to the batteries in the working of
the generating station is very considerable, since the generating
machinerv can be completely stopped during many hours of the
night and of the day, with a very marked saving in wages, coal,
and other similar matters, as against the compulsorily uninter-
rupted running of the machinery during the entire of the 24 hours,
which is imperatively demanded on the '' alternating " current
system. In the selection of "low pressure" for the distribution
ox the electric supply, as against '* high pressure" (usually, though
not necessarily, associated with the *' alternating " current) it was
felt that the primary duty of a municipal authority was to safe-
guard the puolic from as much danger as possible in a matter of
this kind, even if such immunity should have to be purchased by
the investment of a little more capital in the work (a fact which
w^ extremely doubtful).
In the selection of the generating plant for a central station in
the centre of a large town, the important consideration, after
efficiency, is probably that of compactness and econoiny of floor
space occupied, as ground is necessarily very valuable in such
situation. For this reason it was here determined, after ver>'
careful consideration, to adopt a steam engine of the inverted
vertical tvpe, driving directly on the same shaft a shunt-wound
dynamo, both being placed upon the same bed-plat«— an arrange-
ment which allows of as much as .*) h.p. indicated per sauare foot
of floor space being obtained. Nor has this economy in noor space
been obtained by a serious increase in the speed of the engines.
Of the three engines first laid down, each of 150 h.p. indicated,
two (Willans single-acting) have a maximum speed of 280 revolu-
tions per minute (M'hilo the third (Marshall's double-acting) does
not exceed 180 revolutions. The rate of speed of horizontal
engines for the same work would probably have been about 120
revolutions.
Owing to the difficulty of obtaining water for condensing
purposes (at a rate of cost which would have been sufficiently
reasonable to have effected any economy in fuel), it was decided to
make the engines compound and non -condensing, with an initial
steam pressure of TiOIb. in the steum-chest. It should be borne
in mind that with the VVillnns type of engine, triple expansion
can at any time be readily adopted (if water for condensation
should become available) by the interposition of a third cylinder
between the steam-chest and the present high- pressure cylinder.
The distinguishing feature of the demand for artificial illumina-
tion is the very great variation in the amount of that demand,
which diflers not merely according to the season of the year, but
also during each 24 heurs, which again may vary considerably
according to the conditions of weather which may prevail on any
individual day. To endeavour to meet these varying demandf<,
with due regard to economy, where steam is the motive {)ower, it
is absolutely necessary to have types of steam engines which are
of different producing ca()acities, so as to ensure that, according
to the rate of the demand, a type of a size so proportioned be
used such as may be doing a large [)ercentage of its full capacity,
and therefore may bo working under fairly economical conditions.
Bearing this in mind, there have been added later on (ns the
demand for the supply increased) two other tyijes — namely, two
engines of 80 h.p. indicated each, and two also each of 800 h p. indi-
cated. Furthermore, secondary batteries (which may be looked u[X)n
as the equivalent of a 50'h.p. type of steam engine) have also been
erected. With these four types (representing dynamos having
each a maximum rate of output of 200, 300, 6(K), and of l,2tJK}
amperes respectively) it will be seen that most of the very varying
conditions of the demands for an electric supply can be met under
fairly economical conditions.
In order to provide steam for the engines, it was decided to
adopt the type known as the Lancashire boiler, which was con-
sidered as the most useful and the most economical where steam
in large quantities was regularly rociuired. There were first laid
down three Lancashire mild-steel boilers, each of 7ft. diameter
and 28ft. long, working up to 1401b. pressure per square inch, and
nominally of 180 h.p. These have befon working very satisfactorily
for nearly three years. A fourth similar boiler is now being added,
and a Babcock and Wilcox 120 h.p. nominal has recently been
fixed. As adjuncts to the boilers, by previously increasing the
temperature of the water with which they are fed, there were
added later on a feed -water heater, in order to utilise the heat of
the waste steam after it had passed from the engines, and then a
fael economiser (Green's) to utilise the boat still remaining in the
smoke before it escaped to the chimney. To the above generating
plant must be added the various electrical instruments and appa-
ratus of many kinds (such as switchboards, regulating boards with
their rheostats) intended for the regulation, measurement, and
control of the supply of electricity before it was passed to the town.
All these various apparatus, though each individually partook
of the general character implied by its name, were specially adapted
to the circumstances of the locality, as well as to the magnitude
of the currents to be carried ; one distinguishing feature of their
arrangement being that all connected with the -f , or outgoing
mains, were grouped along one side of the engine-room, whue all
those connected with the - , or return mains, were relegated to
the other side of the room— an arrangement which, in the diminu-
tion of the chances of accident, has much to recommend it. Of
course, the standard instruments for comparing the measurements
of other instruments, as well as those for the testing of meters,
and many others, were placed apart in the testing-room, as far
removed as was practicable from the ever-varying infiuence of the
different masses of iron contained in the engine-room. A further
addition to the generating plant in the beginning of 1891, in the
form of a secondary battery (Crompton-Howell), composed of
a set of 70 fi7-plate cells (including some reserve ones for
testing meters, etc. , ) each of 1 ,000 ampere-hours capacity and with
a normal rate of discharge of 200 amperes. This rate of discharge
may, however, with this type of secondary battery, be considerably
exceeded for a comparatively short period without injury to the
cells. In the working of a central station, where a very sudden
call in the demand may arise most unexpectedly (through a fog
coming on, or from some other cause), the importsmce ot poss^-
ing such an elasticity in the maximum limit of the rate of the
discharge is very considerable ; and it has here proved of grea
value on more than one occasion.
In the selection of a type of underground cable, including its
protecting covering, which shall comply with the various require-
ments of an underground main in a town, the following points,
amongst many, should be borne in mind (apart from its being an
efficient and well- protected conductor of electricity) : 1. It should
be compact in form and take up little room. 2. It should readily
adapt itself to the variations in direction as well as in level,
which are constantly demanded from it in crowded thorough-
fares by obstacles, such as gas and water mains, house
services, cellars, lampposts, etc. X It should be readily
acce.ssible throughout its entire length, and not merely
at certain points, for the connection of house services,
as well as for side streets and for testing puri)oses. All of the
above points (and there are many other important ones) should be
of much weight ; but of them all, probably the last-named
(readiness of accessibility throughout the whole of the cable) is of
tlie most practical value in the various street operations which
are constantly occurring with a central station supply. After
careful consideration, a type of underground armoured cable
(resembling, it was afterwards found, that in use in Berlin) was
decided upon. It consists of a copper conductor, surrounded by
an insulating layer generally, but not always, of a fibrous nature,
Mith a seamless lead casing drawn over it by hydraulic pressure,
and with a layer of well-tarred jute or hemp round tlie lead. Then
comes the mechanical protection in the form of two wrought-iron
or steel ribbons, each about l^in. wide, and wound spirally round
the cable, the two ribbons breaking joint with each other. Outside is
another layer pf well-tarred jute, braided and finished ofl*. The
total diameter of such a cable would bo about 3in., even if the
conductor occupied one-third of that length. This cable is laid
direct in the ground, the excavation being again filled in with
earth. After about Gin. in depth have been filled in, a rough,
ordinary deal board is laid down over the cable, to serve as a
warning, when encountered by a pick or shovel, that an electric
main is underneath. It will be noticed that in thb type of cable,
the armouring or protection from external injury is carried
directly upon the cable, and that at any point in its length this
armouring can be cut and removed, in order to make a connection
without any detriment to the adjacent parts thereof. All joints
with the above-described armoured cables, whether u[x>n the
main itself, or for a street branch, or for a house service, are
enclosed in a cast-iron case (mostly in an upper and lower
half), which, after the joint is made and the whole closed
up, can be filled in from the outside with a waterproof compo-
sition, so as to make the whole of the interior into a solid mass.
The mains are laid, almost without exception, along both sides of
the streets under the pavement, thus avoiding breaking into the
street itself (where the paving is genefally expensive), in order to
form the house connections, as would have to be done if a single
main only had been laid. Cast-iron street boxes of various kinds
to suit the several forms of connections, and placed under the
pivoment, complete the system of distribution, and afford ready
facilities for movable attachments, whereby testing and other
operations are much facilitated.
A site belonging to the Corporation and containing about 1,200
s<|uare yards, and which is capable of considerable extension, was
selected for the central station. Although in the middle of the
town, it is outside of the compulsory area selected to be first
supplied with electricity. On this ground the neoessary buildings
were erected. These were larger than was at first required, so as
to admit of a considerable increase in the generating plant being
placed within them. But these buildings themselves form only a
]mrt of a much larger building, which is now in course of construc-
tion—so rapid has been the development of the demand for the
supply of electricity.
At the time of the commencement of the supply to the public,
September 20, 1889, the following generating plant haa been
installed : Three Lancashire steel i>oiler8, of 180 h.p. each ;*two
Tfli) fiL]fc(:5TRlCAL ENGii^lfiER, MAY 6, 1892.
451
VVillans central valve steam engines, each of 160 h.p. indicated, 1 1
type ; one Marshall double-acting steam enfi^ne, also of 150 h.p.
indicated ; three Siemens shunt- wound dynamos, each of 120 e.h.p.
(150 volts and 600 amperes), each dynamo being coupled to and
driven direct by one of the above engines. Also, electrical boards
and other apparatus necessary for controlling and regulating the
supply to the town. Since that time there nave been added : In
1890, one Willans engine of 300 h.p. indicated. III type, driving
a Siemens dynamo of 240 e.h.p. (150 and 1,200 amperes) ; and in
1891, another similar Wiilans-Siemens set, and two sets each con-
sisting of a Willans engine of 80 h.p. indicated, G G type, driving a
Siemens dynamo of 60 e.h.p. (150 volts and 300 amperes), as well
as a feed-water heater and a fuel economiser. Early in 1891 there
was erected the secondary battery of 70 Crompton- Howell cells of
1,000 ampere-hours capacity. As regards the distributing system
in the town, while at the commencement of the supply about
nine miles of mains were laid in the streets, by the end of 1801 the
tocal length had increased to 18 miles. The motive power, as may
be seen from the preceding statement, had about trebled, increas-
ing from 450 i.h.p. to 1,200 i.h.p. ; while the maximum rate of
nightly output, from l,iOO amperes, at the end of 1889, had
increased to a rate of 3,500 amperes at the end of 1801. While the
boilers and pipework had been constructed and laid down by
M^rs. Holdsworth and Son, of Bradford, and had given every
satisfaction, the remainder of the work (exclusive of the secondary
battery), but including the steam engines, as well as the entire of
the electrical work, both at the station and in the streets,
had been supplied by Messrs. Siemens Bros, and Co.,
Limited ; not merely of the original works, but also of
the very considerable extensions that followed — proving
thereby, in the continued confidence which the Corpo-
ration reposed in them, and in Messrs. Willans's engines, how
thoroughly and how efficiently the entire of the works had been
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carried out. The secondary battery was supplied and fixed by
Messrs. Crompton and Co. , Limited ; and it is only fair to say that
so fu* it has given every satisfaction, and that it has proved
itself a most valuable aid in the working of the supply of elec-
tricity. The' buildings, inclusive of tneir foundations, which
are very heavy, owing to a portion of the site being upon the bed
of a disused branch of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, were
built in a solid and efficient manner by Mr. W. Johnson,
of Bradford; and they have proved, so- far, well adapted to
their work.
Cost op Woekino during 1890 and 1891.
The public distribution of the supply of electricity commenced
on September 20, 1889, since which date it has been carried on
uninterruptedly. But as the working of the installation did, not
pass into the hands of the Corporation from those of the con-
tractors, Messrs. Siemens, until about two months after, it will be
convenient for the purposes of this paper to take the commence-
ment of the regular working as from January 1st, 1890. For the
first few months the daily duration of the supply was from an houi-
before sunset to 11 p.m. ; then, owing to a request for an
extension of the hours of supply, it commenced at 10 a.m. and
lasted till 11 p.m. In February, 1891, the secondary battery already
referred to having been fixed, the supply was made uninterrupted
throughout the 'M hours ; and it has continued so ever since.
It is well known that the nature of the demand for the supply
of light (that is, as to the time when it occurs, and as to the
duration of such demands) depends very largely upon the
character of the district. The one here supplied may be described
as a '* shop" district, with a few moderate-sized hotels in it, but
without any private residences. Latterly, however, these
characteristics have been somewhat modified, owing to extensions
which have taken place in a neighbourhood where ** ware
houses " largely prevail— this term in the North of England being
applied to a more ambitious building, both in its external appear-
ance and the uses which it is put to, than does a mere receptacle
for goods and articles not in actual use ; and which does not
include an office, nor possibly a resident keeper of the building.
A number of daily curves, some of which are shown in
Figs. 3 to 7, illustrate fairly the nature and extent of the lighting
during that portion of each of the months selected, both in 1890
and on the corresponding day of 1891. Most of these curves are
on a Saturday, which evening was for some time one of the
heaviest in the week, but now is one of the smallest in demand
(owing to the warehouses above mentioned not being on). There
is even now a certain amount of lighting during the day, due to
basements of restaurants and of oUier buildings ; this demand, of
course, varies with the nature of the weather — if dark, foggy, or
otherwise. But there is another source of demand which is begin-
ning to arise— that for motive power, for which a considerable field
would appear to exist in Bradford. Where, dependent upon, and
resulting from the larger manufactures of the town, are a
number of much smaller industries, where mechanical power
is needed in Quantity ranging from small dimensions up to
that of several horse-power, a few of these electric motors
have been fixed, some even up to 20 h.p. They are used for hoists,
lathes, and various other industrial purposes. Then, again, electro-
plating, a trade hitherto unknown in the town, has been started
in one, if not more, establishments ; not to speak of the experi-
mento which the Corporation are trying with the tramways, for
the substitution of electricity for the steam power at present in
horse power being quite inadmissible (except on one^ line)
use
owing to the very steep inclines, which are constantly occurring —
as steep as 1 in 15 (ana even more so in one or two cases)— as well
as to the great length of the inclines, averaging perha(>s 1 in 30
to 40, for over a mue or more, without a counter-gradient to relieve
them. It is evident, therefore, that a very considerable demand will
before long arise from the causes just enumerated, and that it will,
in a great part, be a day demand, and also one which will arise in
summer just as well as in winter. What a material advantage,
financially, such a demand will be to the present working of the
installation (successful, as it undoubtedly has been), a mere inspec-
tion of the lighting curves will show. Bearing in mind that this
addition comes in to assist the weakest portion of the light curves —
the daytime, and in summer, too. A mere glance at the daily
curves for the latter part of 1891 will show what an important
saving is effected each night by the use of the battery, instead of
having to run the engines all night through with so small a load
as to be wholly unremunerative.
With respect to the working of the installation, much may be
learnt from an examination of Fig. 1, which is a diagram showing
the total receipte and the total expenditure of production, distri-
bution, sale, eto. These, the running expenses, do not include
interest on borrowed capital and sinking fund for the repayment
of the capital, as recjuired by the Local Government Board in the
case of corporations. Annexed is the table of the profit and loss
account for 1890 and for 1891, which gives in detail the various
items referred to in Fig. 1 ; also the tebles of the capital expendi-
ture and of the net revenue account for the same period.
Profit and Lobs Account— 189(7 and 1891.
' Expenditure. June 30,
1890.
£ s. d.
-Six months ending —
Dec. 31, June 30,
1890.
£ s. d.
1891.
£ s. d.
Dec. 31,
1891.
£ s. d.
Salaryand wages... 367 16 8 410 17 10 418 14 3 506 19 0
Coal 246 17 11
Water ;« 16 4
Repairs and miscel-
laneous 100 11 5
Rent of land 83 18 2
Rates and taxes ... 46 0 0
Bank interest and
commissions 19 1 4
247 0 6 292 18 6 341 15 0
34 0 0 34 15 6 36 19 0
204 13 3 266 8 9 431 10 0
83 18 1 83 18 1 83 18 1
67 1 8
104 6 6
89 14 9
95 9 7
69 11 6
120 7 5
Total expenses 898 1 10 1,174 10 11 1,281 5 4 1,591 0 0
Cost per unit sold... 5-51d. 4-lOd. 3-56d. 2*47d.
Total receipte 858 14 10 1,552 9 9 2,093 13 6 3,592 1 0
Units sold 39,113 68,794 85,103 154,258
Capital ExrKNi»iTURE Awount.
1889. £ 8. d.
December 31 18,450 2 4
1890
June») '. 25,223 19 11
December 31 30,464 15 9
1891.
June30 35,370 7 11
December 31 40,224 19 10
Net Revenue Account.
1889. £ s. d.
December 31, debit 1.079 8 5
1890.
June 30, to loss on half-year 732 6 11}-,
December 31, to loss on half-year 315 6 0 "^'
1891.
June30 30 5 4
Net
2,157 6 8
December 31 , by profit on half -year 971 4 I0<
£1,186 1 10
Net
profit.
Inspection of the wages, coal, and water consumption diagram,
Fig. 2, as well as the rate of production per unit (excluding interast
I and sinking fund) will show in what a small ratio these items have
452
THE ELECTRICAL ENGIKEER, MAY 6, 1892.
increaBod, in proportion to the aaementation, both in the electricsil
ontfiut Eknd in the rocelpte. ThU is due partly to the facti th&t the
aervicea of the staff hare been better ntiliaed Utterly than was
poaslble at the commencement. To this result thu use of the
Mcondary battery haa ccmtribated largely, by blowing t!ie
aprvicei of the staff to be oonfined to 12 hoars, od ao average,
mostly durini; the day boan, instead of being scattared over uie
entire S4 (u wonld be the case with an "alternating "entrant
station).
Again, as regards ooal and water. Both of these items, the
former more eepecially, have been muoh reduced of late by the
QM of the feed-water heater and of the fuel eoonomiBor— there
taking advantage of the heat (which would otherwise have been
thrown away) contained in the waste steam, and in the smoke.
1890
after it has passed away from the boilers. The economical value
of each of these apparatus may be estimated from the followin);
facte : The averse temperaturo of the feed-water to the boiler
was whan taken from the town supply oMee. F,; thix after
passing through the feed-water heater was ruised to ISOdeg. ; and
this (^^in, when passed through the fuel economi8er,waH raiaed to
280deg. before it entered the boilem. By the word ' ' coal " it must
not be supposed that anything approaching to "picked steam
cool" is meant. The best of the coal used at Bradford wantd be
well described by the word " nuts "; and to this is added, at thta
boiler, a very large proportion of " Hlnck,'' or conl-dust of a poor
description, and also of coke, of late— the boat coal above need,
the " nuts," costing from Ms. to IOb. per ton, according to the
market value -. while the " slack " coats about hnlf thnt price. It
will be readily seen that engine trials intended to show a con-
mmption of ijlb. of coal |ier inriicatad horse-power per hour, are
not made with the above sort of stutf. It should also be borne in
mind that the figures given in the table are those of the " gross "
cool bills, which include all the fuel reiiaired to keep the fires
" banked " (during 12 out of the 'M hours), as well as all waste,
and also engine trials, etc. While on the (lueation of coal, it may
bo urged that Bradford, and many other places in the vicinity of
coalfields, are in a better position than other towns which are
situated farther away from those fields. It may be of some
Interest to consider what effect this difference in the cost of coal
0EC2C
r
O1890
A
i \
" ' "w
• 1 ' 1 1 .1 ,
of gas per 1,000 cubic feet, under BimilBrcirenmitaDces,iB in
t^ from lOd. to la., or a little orer ; and, takine roughly the illu-
minating power for domestic purposes of the electrio unit as that
ol 100 cubic feet of gas, this inoreasB would correspond to the
In reepect of water, however, the town of Bradford has a distinct
idvantage over many oWier places. The Corporation supply (which
done is used at these works) is drawn from catchment mountain-
basins, situate on a millstone grit formation. It is of a peaty
character, with a hardness of from 6deg. to Bdeg-, and it is admir-
iibly suited for use in boilers. It does not. 01 course, seed the
use of a "water softener," or of any other expedient, chemical
mechanical, to get rid of the exoMsive degree of hardnesa, or of
other of the impurities which prove so detrimental to the well-
being, as well as to the dnration of boilers.
In conclusion, I have to request the members of the Society of
Arts <a society which so faithfully and so thoroughly carries out
its title as "The Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manu-
factures, and Commerce ") to join me in thanking — first, the Cor-
K ration of Bradford, not merely for their disinterested action in
Lng the first Co take up and solve satisfactorily the question of
the public supply of electricity by the local authority, but
also for the way in which they have unstintingly and with-
out reserve placed the results of their experience at the
disposal of other municipal authorities who may be desirous of
carrying out, to the best of their ability, and for too beneSt of their
respective ratepayers, their duties as regards a public supply of
electricity. Next, amongst the various members and officials of
the Coriioration, I must particularly refer to the chairman of the
Gas and Electricity Committee (Alderman Priestmon, J.P.), and
to the worthy and much. respected town clerk (Mr. W, T.
McCowen). Since it is not too much Ui sav that, had it not been
for the foresight and business qualities of those two gentlemen,
coupled with their firmness and tact io dealing with the many
difficulties which, naturally, beset a young and novel undertaking
of this kind, it is extremely doubtful whether there would have
beeo any public supply of electricity in Bradford at all, even at the
present time. To myself, personally, their kindly support and
assistance, ever readily placed at my dtaposa!, has been evinced on so
many occasions, that! am unable odeijuately to do anything mora
thansiniply thank them. Imustalsoadvertto Mr.S. VV. Baynes,the
has upon the expenses, and consequently upon the selling price of
the electrical energy at each of such installations. Vot it may be
asHumed that the other matters, uuch as wat'oti, water, oil,
etc., remain pretty nearly the same in all large towns.
The author has hod brought under his notice several places where
these differences occur ; in some cases engine coal costing iitiout
25», per ton, or about three times what it does in Bradford, After
a careful consideration of such cases, the extra cost in the supply
of coal would apiiear to be mot, geniirally, by the increase of Id.
er unit in the selling price. This rough estimate is, moreover,
rne out in the case of gas (the manufacture of which is affocleii
b almost precisely the same way). It will be found that the price
present resident manager of the installation, and to the ready
co-oiieration which ho has always afforded me, not merely in his
present position, but also previously while acting as clerk of the
works during the construction of the works described in the
paper. To his indefatigable energy and good management in the
working of the installation is due, very largely, the commercial
success which haa attended it. My thanks are also due to the
scleral contractors who have been connected with me in carrying
out the works. But as by far the torgost part of those works, ox
well as the heaviest responsibility, feU to Messrs. Siemens Bros,
and Co., so must I also mention Mr. A. Siemens, of that firm, and
hie hearty m-opomtion and 'assistance over a&brded whenertr any
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 6, 1892.
453
peculiar or novel question presented itself for solution. To the
various brother officials of the Corporation of Bradford, as well as
to others outside thereof, I would give my best thanks for the
kindness and courtesy which I have received at their hands.
Mr. Shoolbred then referred to a value of secondary batteries
that must commend itself to all managers of central stations. On
February 19th, while the station was working, the fuse of the large
dynamo went, and the load was immediately taken up by the
battery and the other machines, but principally by the battery.
So effectively was this done that no complaints were made by con-
sumers and members of the Corporation who at the time were in
committee in a room lighted by the electric light, but did not notice
anything out of the ordinary.
During the discussion a number of questions were asked, Ur.
Crompton wanting to know something about the evaporative
power of the boilers, so that comparisons might be mciae with
boilers used elsewhere. Ur. A. Siemens gave his opinion in
favour of local authorities providing light. Ur. WlUana supported
direct driving as against ropes and belts, and congratulated
Mr. Shoolbrea on having adopted direct driving. The speaker
discussed the difference required by mill work and electrical
work, and contended that the former problem was simple
compared with the latter. Ur. Bailey laid some stress on lamps
wired and lamps energised, also on selection of area. lb.
Reokenzann would like details of initial cost. Ur. Baynea, the
electrical engineer at Bradford, replied to some of the questions,
pointing out that the calorific value of the coal used was very low, so
that comparisons would be odious ; but he gave the figures of
6*841b. of water evaporated per pound of coal at working pressure,
being equivalent to 7'o91b. at atmospheric pressure, and that the
revenue from the 35-watt lamf)? worked out at 9g. 7d. per lamp
wired ; also that the leakage of the system was '02 ampere,
showing a high insulation resistance for a central station. Mr.
Albright, Mr. McGowen,and others also took part in the discussion,
to which Mr. Shoolbred briefly replied.
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
BRAZILIAN SUBMARINE TELEGRAPH COMPANY,
LIMITED.
The thirty-seventh ordinary general meeting of this Company
was held on Wednesday at Winchester House, Sir James
Anderson presiding.
In moving the adoption of the report the Chairman stated that
there had been a decrease of £31,819 in their revenue for the half-
year ended December ,31 last, as compared with that of the
previous six months. He must, however, remind them that the
accounts of several of the previous half-years had included abnor-
mally large receipts arising from exception^)! causes in South
America. With these causes they were well acquainted. The
decrease was, however, chiefly owing to the abnormally low rates
of exchange which had existed in Brazil during the half-year, and
which, he was sorry to say, still continued. There had been an
increase in their expenditure of £7,0.37, of which the bulk was
attributable to the a^lditional cost of repairs of cables and to
duplexing their newest cable. After fiaying two interim quarterly
dividends at the rate of 6 per cent, per annum, they carried forward
£19,898, and he would be disappointed if they did not, as usual,
receive a bonus at the end of the tinancial year payable in October.
The current half-year's working was not unsatisfactory. The
cables of the Western and Brazilian Company were partly dupli-
cated, but it required the laying of a second cable between Santos
and C'huy to provide a complete duplicate system between Great
Britain and Buenos Ayres. They had arranged with the Western
and Brazilian Comp>any to lay the cable, and they had had a tele-
gram within the last hour saying that the shore end was being
landed. He was convinced that the cable would lead to
results greatly to their mutual advantage and success in dealing
with their competitors. The cost incurred by the Western Com-
pany had been very large, and, as the Brazilian Company's fair
contribution, they had agreed to pay the Western Company
£6,000 per annum instead of making any alteration in the
percentages of the joint puree. The Western Company had
also given them the right to use their repairing ship for
repairs of their cables off the coast of Brazil at a moaerate
charge per day. In certain cases this arrangement would save
the expense of fitting out a steamer in Europe, with a long journey
to Brazil and back. Their existing rival on the West Coast of
America had forestalled them in securing the Transandine line
between Buenos Ayres and V^alparaiso, and had so arranged his
tarifiJB as to shut this Company out for the present from iny share
in the Chilian and Peruvian traffic, but the companies interested
in passing this trafhc by the East Coast route — namely, the West
Coast of America Company, the Western Brazilian Company, and
their own Company — were arranging for the construction of an
independent Transandine line of improved character between the
Atlantic and the Pacific. The Central and South American
Company had commenced cutting rotes, whereas their own
Company had carried out a policy of gradual reductions, as
circumstances permitted, ranging from .33 to 50 per cent, of the old
rates, according to locality. No doubt they would have continued
this i)olicy had not the rival cable project sprung up. They
would certainly not remain at a higher tarifl" than their rivals
when the time came to accept the position, and in the meanwhile
they were daily watching the course of traffic and saf^uarding
the (jhareholders' money and intorosts. Their second rival was the
Antilles cable, but it was certainly not to the interest of that com-
pany to reduce tariffs. Of course, they knew what the French
Antilles Company were trying to do, but unless that company had
Government subsidies, it aid not appear to him that they were in
an enviable position ; but still they might have to count with the
opposition of that company by-and-by. They had now a third rival
in the South American Cable Company, which had just been brought
before the public. That company propose to unite Africa with Brazil
by a cable between Senegal and Pernambuco, and so provide another
route to Europe vid Africa. He might remind them that Africa
was already joined to Brazil, and the route to Europe was already
in existence, as the Brazilian Submarine Company's cables at
St. Vincent were in connection with that of the African Direct
Telegraph Company, and, in fact, with the whole world. He did
not think he would have felt it his duty to say anything against
the new company whatever he might have thought, because con-
tractors had a right to keep their machinery going if the public
would find the money, or if they were rich enough, to risk their
own money : but in their prospectus they held the Brazilian
Submarine Company up as one they intended to injure. They
had also based their estimates of revenue on a few excep-
tional years, when civil war by sea and land, revolution,
and financial crisis caused reckless telegraphing and expen-
diture, which naturally inflated this Company's receipts at a
time when every other means of communication with the
outer world than by their East Coast cables was stopped. The
new company in their prospectus assumed that they might
reasonably expect to take from this Company £85,000 per annum
of such extraordinary receipts, which, however, had, since the
advent of peace, already diminished by one-third. The tariffiB were
reduced and were certain to be still more reduced, while the loss
by exchange on the charges collected in Brazil was eauivalent
to another very large reduction. They gave data in their pro-
spectus which he could assure them would prove disappointing.
The new company was, however, formed, tne ship nad sailed
with its cable, and they would have to meet its opposition ;
but the Directors were not in any despondent mood, though, of
course, they were anxious. Their entire system was duplicated,
and the newer cable was duplexed, giving practically, the
carrying capacity of three cables ; and the duplication of
the cables of their partners, the Western ana Brazilian
Company, between their point of landing at Pernambuco
and the River Plate, was completed and the duplex working
between London and the River Plate would now be arranged for.
Their traffic was being transmitted with great speed, which they
were improving every month. They had duplicated their cables
without increasing their capital, ana they had a substantial avail-
able reserve for extensions of contingencies. Their receipts from
the West Coast of Africa and the Cape colonies were of consider-
able importance, whereas their rival's calculation was as if all the
Company's revenue resulted from the trafiSc between Pernambuco
and Europe. They would also soon have a direct line across the
Andes to Chili, and all the way to Lima — in fact, a complete
thorough communication from Peru and Chili to Great Britain and
Europe. Nothing that forethought or a judicious expenditure of
their money could have done to strengthen their position had, in
his opinion, been neglected.
The Hon. W. St. Jolin F. Brodrlck, M.P., seconded the motion.
The Chairman, in answer to questions, stated that the cost of
the Transandine lino would be about £100,000, or perhaps
£1*20,000, and it would be carried out by debentures, he assumed,
with a little capital if necessary. The three companies would be
united in making the line. This Company's proportion of the cost
Mould be one-half, but he did not expect any loss upon the outlay —
in fact, he rather thought it would be a good investment. It was
expected by the South American Company that their cable would
be open for traffic in tfuly next. A project was now being dis-
cussed in Lisbon to give both their Company and the Eastern
Company an extension of their monopoly for 10 years if they would
connect with the Azores. He did not know whether they would
get the work, as the French company were striving hard in the
same direction. If the Brazilian Submarine Company succeeded
it would cost them £50,000, but they would have a splendid
monopoly.
The motion was adopted.
EASTERN EXTENSION, AUSTRALASIA, AND CHINA
TELEGRAPH COMPANY, LIMITED.
The thirty -seventh ordinary general meeting of this Company
was held on Wednesday at Winchester House.
Sir Jolin Pender, who presided, stated that the gross receipts
for the half-year ended December 31 last had been £243,658, showmg
a decrease compared with those for the corresponding period ot
1890, of £35,4,37, of which nearly £12,000 was due to fluctuations
in exchange, £14,000 to the reduced rates to Australia, and the
balance to the commercial depression which had prevailed in the far
East for sometime past. The working expenses had been practi-
cally the same as during the corresponding period of 1890. Com-
paring the figures for the whole year, the gross receipts for 1891 had
been £508,536, a decrease of £25,415 on those of 1890, while the
net revenue for 1891 had been £289,522, or a net decrease for the
year of £13,960. The usual interim dividends had been
dietributed during the past year, making, with the divi-
dend now pro|>osed to be paid, a total of 5 per cent, for the
year ; and it was also prof>osed to pay a bonus of 4s. a share, or
2 per cent., making a total distribution of 7 per cent, for the past
year. The balance of £111,987 had been carried to the general
reserve fund, which now stood at £428,842, after charging it with
454
TfiE ELECl^RlCAL EiTGIi^EteR, MAY 6, 1892.
£194,937 daring the year for the balance of the coet of the
Madras-Penang (duplicate) cable, the balance of the coet
of the partial renewal of the Hong Kong-Tonqain and
the Madras-Penanff (original) cablee, and for the coet of the
Penang'Sumatra cable, since the issue of their report they had
completed another month's working under the guarantee arrange-
ment made with certain of the Australasian Governments for
testing the effect of a 4s. rate to Australia, and they were
consequently in a position to give the figures for the
full year of the experiment. The number of words trans-
mitted during the year had increased 50 per cent, over
that of the corresponding period of 1800-1891, and 6^ per
per cent over that oi 1889, the year adopted as the basis of the
guarantee, while the receipts had diminished to the extent of
£55,040. One-half of this loss was borne by the guaranteeing
colonies and the other half by the associated companies and the
Indo-European department of her Majesty's Indian Government,
this Company's proportion being £17,770, and that of the Eastern
Company £7,862. As the Directors never expected that the entire
loss would be recouped during the first year, they were not dis-
appointed with the result, and had agreed to the experiment being
continued for at least another year. Negotiations were proceeding
with the Spanish Govemment for the duplication of the cable
between Hong Kong and Cape Bolinao. An arrangement had
also been entered into for the manufacture and laying, on
account of the Netherlands-Indian Government, of a cable to con-
nect Acheen with the Company's new line at Sumatra, and the
Tel^raph Construction and Maintenance Company's steamer,
" Seme," would this week leave the Thames with the requisite
cable on board to execute this work. As to the staff pension fund,
the Directors had had a scheme prepared by experienced actuaries,
who had advised that an annual contribution of 2^ per cent, on
the salaries, and a similar contribution by the stafi, would, if
invested at 4 per cent, compound interest, provide sufficient
funds to make adequate retiring allowances for the younger
members of the staff on their attaining sixtv years of age,
but as many of the older employes had alreaay seen consider-
able service, and their retirement in some cases would not be
far distant, 2^ per cent, would be insufficient to place them
on an equally favourable footing. With a view, therefore, to
supplementing their allowances from the pension fund, the
actuaries advised that, in addition to the 2^ per cent, referred to,
the Company should continue their present contribution to the
endowment assurance fund in full until all the existing policies
were paid off, and allow the savings effected by the premiums
ceasing to be payable to the assurance company as the policies
matured from time to time to be applied exclusively ior the
benefit of the older servants. They furtner recommended that the
Company should guarantee 4 per cent, interest on the accumula-
tions of the fund. He concluded by moving the adoption of the
report and the payment of the dividend and bonus recommended.
The Karqnii of Twaeddale seconded the motion, which was
carried.
The duUrman afterwards proposed, and Sir James Anderson
seconded, a resolution approving the establishment of a staff
pension fund, and authorising the Directors to carry out the same
upon such terms and conditions as they might think expedient.
The motion was unanimously carried.
COMPANIES' REPORTS.
METROPOLITAN ELECTRIC SUPPLY COMPANY. LIMITED.
Directors : Sir John l^ender, K.C.M.G. (chairman) ; J. Denison
Pender, Esq. (deputy chairman) ; Sir (^eorge Elliot, Bart., M.P. ;
Admiral of the Fleet Lord John Hay, (y.C.B. ; Admiral Sir George
H. Richards, K.C 6., F.R.S.; Sir James Anderson ; J. Si)encer
Balfour, Esq., MP.; J. C. Parkinson, Esq , John B. Verity, Esq.,
H. Granville Wright, Estj. Secretary: E. Cunliffe-Owen, Esq.,
C.M.G. Manager: E. S. Claremont, Esij. Chief engineer;
Frank Bailey, Esq., A.M.I.CE. Consulting engineers : TneLord
Kelvin, D.C.L.,PresR.S.; Dr. John Hopkinsdn, F.R.S.; Prof.
George Forbes, F.R.S.
Report and accounts of the Directors to be presented to the
fifth ordinary general meeting, to be held at Winchester House,
on Friday, the 6th May, 18»2, at 12 o'clock.
The Directors submit a statement of the Com(>any's accounts for
the year ending the 31st December, 1891, prepared in the form
prescribed by the Board of Trade, under the provisions of the
Electric Lighting Acts of 1882 and 1888. Durmg the year the
Company has been steadily extending its system of underground
cables, and except in certain of the outlying portions of the
Company's areas, all the more important thoroughfares are pro-
vided with mains. The Directors are }ileased to report that all
the Company's stations have worked satisfactorily. The generat-
ing station for the Paddington district, which has been in course
of construction during the past few months, will be completed
almost immediately. The expenditure upon the works of construc-
tion during the year has been £113,580, making a total capital
expenditure to the 3l8t December, 1891, of £486,926. This
practically absorbs the Company's capital. Additional capital
IS required for the completion and equipment of the Paddington
installation, supplying a wealthy and important district which the
Coiupany has been successful in securing since its incorporation.
Provision may also have to be made for certain street lighting,
and other contemplated extensions of supply. The Boara
propose to meet the outlay for theee purposes by a deben-
ture issue not exoeedm^^ £100,000. The terms of such issue
are now under the consideration of the Board, and the deben-
tures will be offered in the first instance to the shareholders.
The gross revenue for the year amounted to £43,747. Is. 3d.,
including a sum of £3,027. Is. 3d., paid by the contractors on
account of expenditure incurred by the Company in working the
Sardinia-street, Rathbone-place, and Manchester-square installa-
tions during the time of testing, etc The net revenue for the
year was £9,719. 10s. 8d., which enables the Directors to recom-
mend a further final dividend of 2s. per share. The Comnany's
lamp connection, which on January 1, 1891, was equivalent to
48,000 8-c.p. lamps, rose during the year to 82,000 lamps. It now
amounts to 96,000 lamps, and continues steadily to increase.
With this increase the percentage of net profit may be ex()ected
to grow rapidly, as there will be no corresponding increase in the
fixed charges. It is with much regret that the Board have to
record the death of their colleague. Alderman Sir R. N. Fowler,
Bart, M.P. The vacancy thus caused has been filled up by the
appointment of Admiral of the Fleet Lord John Hay, G.C.B. In
accordance with the articles of association, the following Directors —
viz , J. Denison Pender, Esq., Admiral Sir George H. Richards,
K.C.B , and John Benjamin Verity, Esq.— retire Irom the Board,
and, being eligible, offer themselves for re-election. The auditors,
Messrs. I^loitte, Dover, Griffiths, and Co. , retire, and offer them-
selves for re-election.
Capital Acxx)unt Year ending December 31, 1891.
Expenditure to Expended Total expen-
Dec. 31, 1890. during the diture to Dec.
year. 31, 1891.
Dr. £ H. d. £ 8. d. £ s. d .
Lands, including law charges incidental to acquisition
12,365 8 9 23 10 0 12,388 18 9
Buildings 89,27115 7 35,738 5 4 125,010 Oil
Machinery 129,730 15 8 19,729 7 10 149,460 3 6
Accumulators at generating and distributing stations
6,126 3 9 49 5 2 6,175 8 11
Mains, including cost of laying the mains
63,412 6 8 42,781 0 6 106,193 7 2
Transformers, motors, etc.,
24,618 17 7 11,612 15 3 .36,231 12 10
Meters, and fees for certifying under the Act
4,083 9 11 1,315 10 0 5,398 19 11
Electrical instruments, etc.
583 11 4 .391 3 5 974 14 9
Station fittings (cable, mains, lamps in stations)
663 4 10 822 14 10 1,485 19 8
Purchase of patents or patent rights
Cost of licenses, provisional orders, etc.
6,880 5 2 478 4 0 7,358 9 2
Expenditure on offices, including furniture at offices,
stotions, etc 1,716 11 638 9 1 2,354 10 2
Proportion of management and general expenditure,
chargeable to capital— viz. , engineer's department,
including consulting engineers, maps, plans, etc.
7,939 7 0 2,781 14 7 10,721 1 7
Law and accountant's charges
836 0 4 255 11 1 1,091 11 5
Rent, rate and taxes, salaries. Directors' fees, and
other expenses 15,658 15 10 6,422 12 3 22.081 8 1
363,886 3 6 123,040 3 4 486,926 6 10
To balance 10,560 2 2
£497,486 9 0
Receipts to Received during Total receipts
Dec. 31, 1890. year. to Dec. 31, 1891
Cr. £ 6. d. £ s. d. £ s. d
Ordinary shares of £10 each
367,016 9 0 129,470 0 0 496,486 9 0
Founders* shares of £10 each
1,000 0 0 — 1,000 0 0
368,016 9 0 129,470 0 ^ 497,486 9 0
£497,486 9 0
Revenue Account for the Year ending Dec. 31, 1891.
£ s. d. £ s. d.
A.-— To Generation of Electricity.
Coal or other fuel, including dues,
carriage, unloading, storing, and
adl expenses of placing the same on
the works 13,732 9 0
Oil, waste, water, and engine-room
stores 2,558 16 0
Proportion of salaries of engineers,
superintendents, and officers 1,762 3 4
Wages and allowances at generating
stations 5,402 7 1
Repairs and maintenance as follows —
Buildings, £92. lis. 2d.; engines,
boilers, £2,054. Os. 7d.; dynamos
and exciters, transformers, motors,
etc., £112. 7s. 7d.; other machinery ,
instrumentsand tools£847. 10s. lOcf. ;
accumulators and accessories, £132.
9s 3,238 19 2
26,694 14 7
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 6, 1892.
455
B.— To DUtribulioD of Electricity.
Kapsln, nuUntenance, And roDSvaU
of SIMM of all classea, including
lUkUrlali and iaying the «ame 35 II 9
Rapatra, iuiDt«nHiice, and renewala
M trmuoniiera, metsn, and othor
Apporktns on coniu>ner«' premiBee 74 11 0
Pole Mnta and waylenvee 5.1 .1 0
IM
C— To Proportion of Renta, Bate*, and Taxes.
RwUpayable 1 „ B44
EUtM and tjuies / ■*•'***
D.— To Proportion of Management ETpensefl.
Dlraetora' remuneration S-W 0 0
Salaries of management, secretary,
engineers, accountants, clerks, and
messengers 1,848 1 11
Wages of meter readers and wiring
inspectors 313 4 7
Commiaaion to canvassers ,. 9 12 0
Stationery, printinK, and agreements 21ft 14 fi
lieneral establishment charges 7*24 \3 7
Auditor 52 in 7
E.— To Proportion of Law and Parliamentary Charge".
Law expenses 40
F.— To Special Chaises.
Inaurancee 46S
ToUl expenditure M,027
Balance carried to net revenue . . 9,719
£4.1.747
Bale of current per meter ai
B.T.U
Sale under contracts
7id. per
Rental of meters and other ap|iaratus on comtumers'
Rents receivable
Transfer fees
Special items : Net proceeds of work done for and
goods supplied to sundry conaiimers
Amount allowed by contractors on account of
running expenses during completion and ntarting
of stations, in lieu of coal, oil, water, eU:.. con-
sumed during erection and tenting of inntallations
3,ir27
£4.1,747
Nrt Rkvrsi'r Accohnt, Dec. R
ges and commission
« electric light <
Allowances U
Bad debt« ...
Interim dividend of 2s. iier share, iiaid 1st May,
ISDl ■
Balance applicable to dividend on ordinary stock or
4,T0S I
.'i.4r)4 1!
£10,715 1
Balance brought from la>-t account
Balance brought from revenue accou
Discounts
Dr. (iRNKRAr. KA[..tNI'K-SHKRT, DK<\ .11. IHfll. £ I
Amount received as [ler capital account 497,4X11
Temporary loans 9,fil»« I
Sundry tradesmen and others c"
of plant and machinery, fuel,
Sundry creditors on open accou
Net revenue account : balance at credit thereof
Cr.
£5.15,224
£
per capital account ^6,ii'26
Amount expended for werki
Stores on hand —
Coal £r,i5 « 0
Oils, wasto, etc 82 13 0
Ceneral 4,4.15 17 II
Sundry debtors for amounts paid on account of
contracts in course of completion 2,64,1
Preliminaiy expenses .">,0fl'2 t
Sundry debtors for current supplied 14.314 1
Otherdebtore 1,141 1
De)iosits (provisional orders, vestries, etc.) 5,912 I
('ash at bankers:
Messrs. Prescott, Dimsdaie, and (^o. £l,6tL1 10 1
The Royal Bank of Scotland 12,519 14 :i
I'ash in hand ,, ,,
i IH 9
t 6 9
WESTERN AND BRAZILIAN TELEGRAPH COMPANY.
LIMITED.
The report of the Directors of this Company for the half.year
ended December 31 states that the total earnings amounted to
£92,345, a decrease of £16,472. In common with other South
American undertakings the loss on eichange was heavy, and in
this Company's case reached the large inm of £19,133, But for
this loss the revenue would, it is stated, have been in excess of
that for the corresponding period. The working expenses
amounted to £38,404, an increase of £1,204, Including theamount
brought forward and the dividend received upon the shares held
in the Platino Company, the revenue balance is £87,798, from
which has been deoucted £12,807 for debenture inl«rest and
£0,293 for the debenture redemption fund, leaving £48,S9S, of
which £15,000 baa been placed to the reserve fund. The Directors
recsmmend a dividend of Os, per share, tax free, for the half-year
on the ordinary shares, making, witji the dividend paid in
November last, 4 per cent, for the year, leaving a balance
of £4,486 to be carried forward. In the case of share*
which have been divided into preferred and deferred.
Is, 6d. per share of the dividend now recommended will be
payable to the preferred shareholders, and 4s. 6d. per share to the
deferred shareholders. The third annual drawing of the A and B
debentures took place at the ofBces on January 15 last, in the
presence of Mr. W, W. Venn, jun., notary, when debentures
amounting to £l'2,7CIO were drawn, and have since been }>ald off at
par. Under a satisfactory arrangement with the Brazilian Sub-
marine Telegraph Company, a contract for the immediate duplica-
tion of the Qimpany's lines between Santos and Chuy has been
entered into with the Telegraph Construction and Maintenance
Company, Limited, and the expedition to lay the cable is now on
its way out. Upon the completion of this additional line, and in
considoration thereof, this Company will receive a payment of
£6,000 per annnm from the Brazilian Submarine Telegraph
Company. When this cable is laid, the lines of the CompaDy «ill
bo duplicated over tbe whole of the busy part of the systnm —
namely, from Pemambuco to Montevideo, tbus affording, in con-
nection with the through lines working in concert with this
Company, duplicate lines from Europe to Bmzil, Uruguay, and
the Argentine Republic, The new cables will be duplexed
throughout.
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
Waverley, United,— Roistered by Allen and Edwards, 5 and 6,
Great Winchester-street, E.G., with a capital of £75,000 in £1
shares. Object : to aMiuire the tiatent rights, business, and
goodwill of Edward S. Higgins ana H. C. Jenkins, and also an
invention relating to improvemente in typewriters, and to develop
and turn to account the same io such manner as the Company
may deem expedient ; also to carry on business as meohanioal and
electrical engineers, stationars, etc. The first eabscribers are :
Shares.
A. W. G. Ranger, 17, Fen church street, E.G. 1
E. S. Higgins, 6, Thorbum- square, Surrey 1
F. AUen. Warrington House, Duppas-bill, Gioydon 1
H. C. Jenkins, 99, Iverson-road, Hampetead I
J. N. Dauiicey, 207, Brixton-road, S.W 1
J. Allen, Suffolk House, Duppas-hill. Croydon 1
H. Allen. Warrington House, Duppas-hill, Croydon 1
There shall not be less than three nor more than five Directors.
The first are A. W, G. Ranger, E, S. Higgins, H. C, Jenkins, and
F. Allen. Qualification : 500 shares. Remuneration : Managing
Diractor, £750 per annum, with an additional £.iO for each 1 per
cent, after payment of 10 |ier cent, dividend ; Chairman, £160 ;
ordinary Directors, £100 per annum each, with an additional £25
for each 1 per cent, after payment of 10 per cent, dividend.
Wastant Constle* Xleetria Llgbt and Powar Syadleate,
Limited. — Registered by Jordan and Sons, 120, Chancery .lane,
W.C., with a capital of £25,000 in £30 shares. Object : to acquire
the undertaking of electrical engineers now carried on by G.
Parfitt and Son, at Keynsham, Somerset, in accordance with an
agreement, made April 22, between G. J. Parfitt and T. J. Parfitt
of the one part, and S. F. Andrews, on behalf of this Company, of
the other part, and generally to develop and extend the same.
Subject to certain modifications, the regulations contained in
Table A apply.
BUSINESS NOTES.
lahitt BraaUatr* da Kleetrleldada has decided t
liquidate
Wast India and Panama Talacrapb Company,— The receipts
for the half-month ended April 30 were £2,669, against £2,9S4.
Cnba Submarine TalaKraph Company. — The receipts for the
month of April wet-e £60 less than for the corresponding month.
Xaatem Talecrapb Company.^The receipts for the month
of April were £53,683, as against £m,U» for the correspondii^
Ureot Spanlab Talafraptt Compuiy.— The receipts for tha
month of April were £l,7S.'i, as against £1,.¥25 for the correspond-
ing period.
Waatan and BraslHan TaUcrapli Company.— The receipts
for tlia week ending April 29, after deducting 17 per cent, of the
456
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 6, 1892.
^ross receipts payable to the London Platino- Brazilian Telegraph
Company, Limited, were £3,275.
City and Sonth Londoii Railway.— The receipts for the week
ending May 1 were £794, against £733 for the same period of
last year, or an increase of £61. The total receipts to date from
January 1, 1892, show an increase of £1,171, as compared with
last year.
Islington General Xlaetrlo Snpply. — A petition is to be heard
before Mr. Justice Chitty to-morrow for confirming a special
resolution reducing the capital of the above-named Company.
We are glad to see that one clause of the resolution is to reduce
the capital of the Company by cancelling the founders* shares.
Snlmiarine Calilea Tmat. — The report for the financial year to
April 15 states that the revenue, including £2,636 brought from
the preHons accounts, amounted to £25,436. During the year
coupons were mot and paid as follows : £1 on account, May 15,
1891 ; £2 balance, October 15, 1891 ; £3 paid March 15, 1892; and
£1. 29. 6d. payable April 16, 1892. The expenses of the trust
amounted to £1,186, and the payments on account of the
coupons to £24,089, leaving £159 to be carried forward.
Great Northern Telegraph Company of Copenhagen. — The
re|)ort for the year 1891 states that the traffic receipts wore most
satisfactory durine the first six months of the year, but the tariff
reductions fixed by the International Telegraph (Conference at
Paris coming into force on July 1st, there was a markol falling off
in the receipts for the rest of the year. Notwithstanding this, the
gross receipts were a little higher and the expenses somewhat
lower than m 1890. The Board recommended that the total divi-
dend should be fixed at the same figure as lasb year — 17s. 2d. per
£10 share, or about 8*60 per cent.
XUotrlo Light Inyestments. ~The following is a list of
dividend-paying shares in electric companies, together with their
yield at present prices. Most of the shares are fully-paid ; but
where they are not, the full amount of the shares is inserted in
parentheses :
Name of company. Amount
*^ ^ paid up.
Brighton and Hove Ordinary. ... 5
Brush Electric Ordinary 3
Do. Pref 2
Crompldn and Co. Pref 5
Electric Construction 10
Hastings and St. Leonards Ord. 10
House-to- House Pref 5
Kensington and Knightsbridge
Pref 5
Liverpool Electric Supply Ord. 3^ (5)
Do. Pref 5
St. James's and Pall Mall Ord. 5
Do. Pref 5
Sheffield Tel. and Elec. Ord. ... 8 (10)
Swan United 3i (5) .
Telegraphic Construction, etc ... 12
DebkntttreS.
Brighton and Hove 100
Eastbourne 100
House-to-House 100
Telegraphic Construction, etc... 100
Latest
price.
5i
6
9i
5i
5i
H
H
71
lOi
4
43
95
97i
102i
103
Last
dividend.
. ti . . ,
• . " . . •
6
I
6
• • ^2 • • •
7
6
44
• • '* 7 • • •
7
. . I J . . .
.. 20
6
6
6
Yield
p c.
5-55
5-76'
5-64
6-57
10
7-89
6-51
5-21
4-58
4-38
5 07
4*44
5-78
9-62
5-58
5
631
61 5
5-85
4-85
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1892.
April 26.
7803. Improvements in or appertaining to high-tenaion con-
stant • onrrent dynamo • electric machines. Tliomas
Reginald Andrews and Thomas Freece, 20, < harles street,
Bradford.
7826. ImproTcments in electric lamp shades as a medium for
advertising. Thomas Froggatt, 4, Moorfields, Fore-street,
London.
7833. An electrical metronome or time beater or regulator for
musical and other purposes. James Walker and Joseph
Hampshire, 19, Bond -street, Dewsbury. (Complete sjjeciii-
cation . )
7855. Electric switches. Charles Ebenezer Challis, 88, Queen
Victoria -street, London.
7858. Improvements in the construction and insulation of
electrical contact devices and like apparatus. Max
Binswanger, 11, Furnival-street, Holborn, London.
April 27.
7915. Improvements in electric switches. Adolph William
Isenthal, 46, Lincoln's-inn-fields, London.
7935. Improvements in telephones. David Marr, 70, Market-
street, Manchester.
7961. An improved electric circuit-closer. George Washington
Price, 55, Chancery-lane, London.
April 28.
8041. Improved telegraph codes and apparatus therefor.
Samuel Dickinson Williams, Clytha Park, Newport, Mon-
mouthshire.
8046. Improvements in electrical measuring instruments of
the Cardew tsrpe. Henry Capel Lofft Uolden, Bernard
Mervyn Drake, and John Marshall (rorham. The Cottage,
Eritb.
8062. An improved machine for giving electric shocks snto-
matically by the insertion of a odn. George Bryant, 9,
W^arwick-court, <Tray's-inn, London.
8064. An improvement connected with thread-costing of
electric wires. William A'Court Granville Birkln, 166,
Fleet-street, London.
April 29.
8083. A means of electrically heating iron, steel, and othsr
metals in the processes of rolling, drawing, pressJug,
and stamping. James Osmonde Dale, 12, Bennett's-hill,
Birmingham.
8090. Improvements in the production and regulation off
eleotrio ourrents for lighting and other purposes and In
apparatus conneoted therewith. John William Wienall,
William Hirst, and John Smith, 4, St. Ann's-square, Man-
chester.
8108. Improvements in the manullaoture of metallic articles 1»y
electro-deposition. Joseph Walker Davis and Joseph
Osmund Evans, 55, Chancery-lane, London.
8115. Improvements in and relating to posts or standards for
carrying electric lights, wires, and the like. John Bell
Millar, 96, Buchanan -street, (^^lasgow.
8119. Automatio make and break switoh. W^illiam James Ward,
jun., 26, Osborne-roud, Newcat*Lle-on-Tyne.
8127. Improvements in electric telegraphs. Sydney Evershed,
W'oodfield Works, Harrow-road, London.
April 30.
8165. Improvements in eleotrio meters. Frederik Vilhelm
Andersen, 14, Westdown-road, Catford, Kent.
8211. Improved means for stopping or oontrolUng electrlosl
railway and tramway engines or carriages. Michael
Holroyd Smith and Thomas Percival Wilson, 55. Chancery-
lane, London.
8212. Improved means of holding and supporting electric con-
ductors or otherwise, ropes or bars. Michael Holroyd
Smith and Thomas Percival ^^ ilson, 55, Chancery-lane,
London.
8213. Improvements In coupling eleotrio conductors and like
wires. Michael Holroyd Smith and Thomas Percival
Wilson, 55, Chancery -lane, London.
8222. Improvements In dynamo-eleotric machines and motors.
Wenceslas Camille Rechniewski, 98, Rue d'Assas, Paris,
France. (Date applied for under Patents Act, 1883,
Section 103, 31st October, 1891, being date of applicatjjon
in France. )
(Second
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1881.
4128. Transmission of electrical power. Imray.
edition.)
1891.
5711. Xleotrical seamless tubes, etc. Thame.
881 1. Recording eleotrio meters. Mengarini.
9606. Telephone reoeivers. Thompson. (Stein.)
9628. Voltaic batteries. Fitzgerald.
9629. Voltaic battertes. Fitzgerald.
9637. Xleotric cut-out. Alabaster and Gatehouse.
9689. XlectHc battoHes. Jeanty.
9803. Galvanio batteries. Engledue.
10090. Kleotrolytic produetion of aluminium, (irabau.
10613. Botary-phase ourrents. Siemens Bros, and Co., Limited
(Siemens and Halske.)
14752. Inoandesoence lamps. Hoald.
16451. Eleotrio train signalling. Thomi>son. (Espiau and
another. )
20530. Ship telegraphs. Cords.
1892.
2544. Kleotrical motors. Boult. (Still.)
.'{576*. Distributing, etc. , eleotrioity. Atkinson. (Second edition.)
3970. D3rnamo-electrio maehines. Mills. (Lundell.)
4416. Kleotrio switches. W. H. and C. W. Weston.
4610. icleotrio gas lighting burners. Pinkham.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Swrk
Brush Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, Gutta Percha k Telegraph Cu.
House-to-House
M.etropolitan £lectric Supply
London Electric Snpply
Swan United
St, James'
National Telephone
Electric Constructiou
Westminster Electric
Liverpool Electric Supply
V
Price
Paid.
WeUiie*
day
•u
—
'H
10
L>lli
o
-4
—
«l
f.
1
H
n
^i
h
•*i
10
tJi
«M m
<i/t
f.
.'i
3
n
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 13, 1892.
457
NOTES.
ReiohenberflT, in Bohemia, is to have a central station.
Leeds. — ^The tenders for Leeds central station are to be
sent in by the 26th inst.
CAspian Sea Cable, — It is intended to lay a sub-
marine cable in the Caspian Sea.
Vienna Omnibuses. — The Vienna Omnibus Company
are testing electric lamps for their vehicles.
Wereester. — The tenders for the Worcester central
station have not yet been definitely decided.
Chili Telegraphs. — The new telegraph line from
Argentine to Chili will shortly be completed.
Spain. — On May 15th the tenders will be awarded for
the lighting of Tolosa, province of Guipuzcoa, Spain.
UflThthenses. — Her Majesty's Government have
decided to spend £40,000 upon lighthouses in the Bed Sea.
- Derby. — The working expenses of the proposed Derby
electric light town installation amount to nearly £3,000 a
year.
Benmementh. — The surveyor has been requested
to order electroliers for the Bournemouth Municipal
Buildings.
Ashten-nnder-L3me. — The Board of Trade have
decided to grant a provisional electric lighting order to
this town.
Cardiff. — ^A special committee has now the considera-
tion in hand of a new town hall for Cardiff. Electric light
will doubtless be fitted.
Granflretewn. — The surveyor at Grangetown is com-
piling a statement of comparative cost of gas and electric
light for the Local Board.
Leeds Tramways. — A joint referee will be appointed
at once with reference to the purchase of the Leeds tram-
ways by the Corporation.
Madrid. — A project for utilising 3,600 h.p. of the Biver
Guadawana to Torrelodones and Madrid is under considera-
tion by the Spanish Government.
PersenaL — Mr. W. E. Toy having qualified himself in
the works of Mr. Bonald A. Scott, M.LC.K, Acton-hill, W.,
his services have been retained as assistant engineer.
Perth Tramways. — The system of electric traction to
be used by the Perth Tramway Company is not yet
settled. It is thought accumulator traction is favoured.
Dinner. — A complimentary dinner is to be given
to-night to Prof. W. E. Ayrton, F.B.S., by some of his
former pupils and associates, at the Holborn Bestaurant.
Bremen. — Messrs. Siemens and Halske's tender has
been accepted for Bremen for a complete central station,
mains, and house connections during first year for £95,000.
Teohnical Soheels. — The surveyor of Hartlepool has
been instructed to prepare plans for a technical school. The
Stockton Town Council are going to spend £6,000 on a
technical school.
London Hotel Lightinflr. — The well-known hotel in
Charing Cross and Trafalgar-square known to the world
as Morley's, is being fitted for electric light by Messrs.
Mather and Piatt.
Brussels. — It is understood that the electric lighting
of Brussels is to be proceeded with shortly. It is stated
that the favourably reported scheme is that of the India
Bubber and Gutta Percha Company.
West of England. — A company has been registered
as the Western Counties Electric Light and Power Com-
pany, to carry on the business of Messn. Parfitt, the firm
who are lighting Eingswood and Eeynsham.
Neweastle Trams. — ^The Town Improvement Bill for
the Newcastle Corporation provides for a double set of
tramrails along Westgate-hill. It is not settled whether
steam, cable, or electric traction will be used.
Tnnbridflre WeUs. — ^The Tunbridge Wells Local
Board is waiting applications for transfer of its electric
lighting powers to a private or other company. The cost
of the provisional order for the electric lighting of this
town was £350.
Blaokpool Tramwasrs. — ^The Court of Beferees of
the House of Commons has decided to give the National
Telephone Company a locus standi with reference to the
Blackpool Tramways Bill upon two clauses for the purpose
of asking for protective clauses.
Nelson. — The Local Grovernment Board have asked for
plans and other details relating to the electric lighting of
Nelson, with respect to which an application has been made to
borrow £10,000. These plans have been prepared and
forwarded to the Local Grovernment Board.
m
St. Ives — The cost of public lighting in St. Ives for last
year was £124, gas being at 5s. 6d. per 1,000. St. Ives
should form a good district for a small electric light central
installation, for it is not often that electricity has the
chance of competing with gas at this high figure.
Monte Video Telephones. — Application has been
made, says the Financial News^ to the Monte Video muni-
cipal board for authority to establish a new telephone com-
pany, with subterranean wires. The Direction of Public
Works has been asked to report on the scheme.
Indnotor Dynamos. — A small company will be
formed to manufacture the Pyke and Harris inductor
dynamos. Continuous-current machines will be made, as
well as alternate-current machines, on the same principle,
and special transformer plant will complete the system.
Lambeth. — A letter was read at the meeting of the
Lambeth Vestry, on the 5th inst., from the Board of
Trade, stating that they were now prepared to issue a pro-
visional order authorising the Vestry to supply electricity
in the parish. The matter was left in the hands of the
clerk.
Olasffow. — At the Glasgow Town Council meeting last
week Councillor Ure, in submitting the Gas and Electric
Lighting Committee's minutes, said that, in addition to
certain gas contracts, the committee had passed contracts
amounting to £11,240 in connection with the electric
lighting of the city.
Bognor. — ^The Board of Trade have written to the
Bognor Local Board to grant an extension of time until
August 14th, within which the Electric Lighting Trust,
Limited, should make the deposit required under the
Bognor electric lighting order. They would not grant
time beyond that date.
Dover. — The preliminary arrangements for the lighting
of this town do not make much progress, there appearing
to be some hitch with regard to the agreement. A con-
siderable number of alterations have been made in the
document, and a special meeting of the Council has been
called to consider them.
Caravan de Lnze. — It is said that the Duke of New-
castle intends to make a gipsy tour, and for this purpose is
having a caravan de Ivjce built, which is to be fitted with the
electric light and all the comforts of civilisation necessary
to supply the wants of himself and a photographic friend,
with whom he proposes to travel.
45B
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAT 13, 1892.
R<Val laaUtatlOB.— On FrirUy, May 20th, at 9 p.m.,
Hr. J. W Swan ii to read a paper before the Boyal Insti-
tution on " Electro-metallurgy." Ab we believe Mr.
Swan has been engaged for some considerable time on
qneationB of tba deposition of copper, this paper will
doubtleu hav« considerable interest and importance to
electrical engineers.
St. Horits. — The Alpine watering-placee of St Morits-
dorf and St. Moritzbad have between them an electric
lighting plant in three stations of five direct- current
machines giving 160,000 watts, and alternating machines
of 320,000 watts — taking a total of 1,000 b.p. The
work has been carried out by Stirnemann and Weissen-
bach, of Zurich.
—At the last meeting of this Board a letter
was read from the Board of Trade enclosing a communica-
tion from the promoters of the proposed scheme for supply-
ing Sevenoaks with the electric light, and ofTering to revoke
the order if the Local Board wished. A motion was duly
carried to ask the Board of Trade to revoke the order aa
they offered to do.
ShlpUffbtiner. — Messrs. Lowdon Bros., electrical
engineers, Dundee, have obtained an order from Messrs.
William Thomson and Sons for the electric lighting of
their new steamer " lona," now being built by Messrs.
Gourlay Bros, and Co. Messra. Lowdon have just com-
pleted the iastallation on board the new D. P. and L. Co.'s
steamer " London.''
The Compass Ne«dle. — Dr. A. H. Fison is doing
very good work in giving popular and interesting lectures
upon electrical subjects. A recent lecture at the Royal
Victoria Hall, on " The Compass Needle," with large and
vivid limelight illustrations, was much appreciated, and
other lectures delivered by Dr. Fison have been very
favourably received by those attending.
Eleotrlo lAcomotlTes. — Contracts are stated to have
been concluded for working trains through the Baltimore
Belt Line Tunnel by 80-ton electric motors. The con-
tractors are so confident of success that they have under-
taken to instal the plant without any payment, unless they
are entirely successful. Railway experts regard it as an
ample and thorough test of the rivalry between steam and
electricity.
Croydon Hnnlolpal BaildinBrs, — Many of our
readers no doubt know that Croydon is about to erect new
municipal buildings, and in prsparing the specification for
the superstructure of the new buildings it is proposed to
provide that the sum of £700 be set apart for wiring the
building for electric lighting. With the exception of the
pipes necesaary for the gas engine, it is not proposed to lay
in any gas-pipes.
Bradford Tramways. — At the Bradford Tovm
Council on Wednesday, when the minutes of the Tramways
Committee came forward, Mr. Joseph Cowgill, chairman of
the committee, said that the question of discussing the use
of electric traction on the Wakefield-road tramway was
somewhat premature. At present the committee were
awaiting the result of the experiment of running the
electric car up Cheapside.
Ipswioli. — The electrical industry has often to thank
the various local scientific societies for bringing electrical
apparatus prominently before the public. At the Ipswich
Scientific Society's eonverMztone the other evening various
pieces of electrical apparatus were shown by Messrs. F.
Suter and Co., including an electric motor for supplying
power for glass spinning. The generator was a small home-
made dynamo, shown by Mr. Sayers.
Tannton. — As we before pointed out, the question of
the town purcbaaing the electric light installation is a very
interesting one, as it is the first of its kind. Hence it is as
well to give the expert's report verbatim, which we do else-
where in this issue. The sale and purchase of an installa-
tion as a going concern is an ordinary business transaction,
and one in which undoubtedly both sides are quite
capable of looking after their own interests.
Portsmoath. — The trials we alluded to hut week at
Portsmouth were not definitely to settle the use of incan-
descent himps instead of arc lamps, ai might appear, but
merely to illustrate for the satisfaction of the councillora
the lighting effect of the two systems. It is probable that
a combination of arc and incandescent will be used. The
whole scheme is now waiting the result of the Local
Government enquiry, which is shortly expected, and mean-
while full plans are being prepared.
fitrktwok I.eotareB.'— Mr. J. D. Crogan, the veteran
lecturer on scientific application, gave a very interesting
address at the Birkbeck Institution last week, entitled
" From Tinder-Boz to Flectric Light" The lecturer passed
through all the stages within his own recollection of 60
years, from the time he sold matches over the counter at
50 a shilling, or in some cases a penny a-piece, through the
improvements in gas distribution, to the latest triumphs of
electric light. The lecture was greatly appreciated.
Ohlswlok. — This is one of the places which desires to
hand over the provisional order to other persons. Tenders
were therefore invited and obtained from Messrs. Bourne
and Grant, and Messrs. Andrews and Co., for the taking
over of the provisional order for the lighting of the parish
by electricity. The matter has been referred to a com-
mittee to consider the question. This committee consists
of Messrs, Sich, Adamson, Fuller, Tappenden, H. Smith,
Hardy, and the chairman, Mr. W. I. Coropton.
Oxford. — The Oxford Electric Light Company, through
their general manager, Mr. George Offer, proposed to the
City Council the erection of five lamps, seemingly as experi-
mental lamps, at the expense of the company. The current
for the supply of these htmps, which will be Brockie-Pell
of 2,000 cp. nominal, is to be chai^ied either at 6d. per
supply unit by meter, or 9d. per hour for each lamp
lighted. The General Purposes Committee recommended
that this be agreed to, and the Council approved the
recommendation .
Nortbanvteii. — A wrong impression might perhaps
be given by the mere statement that the electric light was
to give place to gas with regard to the lamps in front of
the Town Hall at Northampton. The gas company have
great claims to light these lamps, seeing that 27 years ago
they presented the four lamp columns to the town, and have
ever since lighted two lamps free, and the gas company
will light the four lamps all night at £16. 16s., as against
the electric light company's offer to supply two lamps of
300 cp. each for £50.
Senthend Pier Eleotrle Tramway. — Messrs.
Orompton and Co., electrical engineers, forwarded an
exhaustive report, which was presented at the last meeting
of the Southend Local Board, as to their inspection of the
pier electric railway and the works in connection therewith.
The report stated that everything was in fairly good con-
dition, but stress was laid on the matter of corrosion taking
place in the winter time, though by taking precautions in
time no inconvenience would arise from that cause for
some time to come. The report was referred to the Pier
Committee.
Keynsham. — The contract of the Keynsham Local
Board with the gas company having expired at the end
THE ELEOfRlOAL ENGINEJER, MAY 13, 1892.
45d
of February, the Board determined to have the electric
light, and placed the matter in the hands of Messrs.
Parfitt, who already had lighted Kingswood, near Bristol.
A 10-h.p. Bobey and a 12-h.p. Davey-Pazman engine are
installed, and the light is to be supplied on a low-pressure
direct-current system at 130 volts. The wires extend for
about a mile, the roads being lighted for the most part by
25-c.p. incandescents carried on posts. A few smaller
lamps are used in lanes, and some 125-c.p. incandescents
in the centre of the town.
Closed-Condnit Systems. — A company with a million
dollars has been formed in Illinois, to work the closed-
conduit tram system of Mr. J. B. Odell. Mr. Mark W.
Dewey is working on another closed-conduit system, which
is to work by induction with alternating currents. Mr.
Elias E. Bies is also at work on a similar system. Mr. Bies
is in advance of Mr. Dewey, as he has already made
practical demonstrations. It is thought, no one can yet
judge with what truth, that these methods may entirely
revolutionise present methods of car traction. Between
closed conduits and the light-weight heavy-discharge accumu-
lator, the race, however, will be close.
The House of Commons Signal Light.— It costs
£60 every session to keep up the signal light on the Clock
Tower at Westminster. The light is at present so placed
that it can only be seen from certain positions, and the
First Commissioner of Works has promised to make pro-
vision in next year's estimates for altering the position in
such a way to make the light visible from all quarters with
the assistance of lenses. Mr. Plunket does not, however,
see his way to use electricity instead of gas for this illumi-
nant. The initial cost of an electric light in the upper part
of the Clock Tower, which would be visible from all parts
of London, would be about £750, and the cost each session
about £150.
Eleotrio Lannohes. — Mr. W. S. Sargeant, whose
business is now converted into the Thames Electric and
Steam Launch Company, is busy fitting out their electric
launches for the coming season. The " Glowworm " is one of
the best known of these, designed for Andrew Pears, Esq.,
and the " Pilot,'' an electric pinnace, is another boat built
by Mr. Sargeant for the same gentleman. Other electric
boats at Eel Pie Island and Strand-on-the-Green are the
Meteor,'' built for Arthur Ash, Esq., and the
Floientia," for W. T. Crawshay, i^q., of Caversham
Park, Beading. The growing popularity of electric
launches for private owners up the Thames is a good
augury for the future extension of this branch of electrical
engineering.
Glasgow Electric Lighting. — The following are the
tenders accepted for this work : (1) Offer dated 25th ult.,
by the Henley Telegraph Works Company, Limited, for
the half square inch insulated cables and triple potential
leads, and offer dated 22nd ult., by the India Bubber, Gutta
Percha, and Telegraph Works Company, Limited, for the
quarter square inch insulated cables ; (2) offer dated 25th
ult., by Elliot's Metal Company, Limited^ for the copper
strip ; and (3) offer dated 25th ult., by Mr. Wm. Pollok
for excavating the trenches and laying the electrical con-
ductors; (4) offer dated 5th ult., by Messrs. James Stiff and
Sons for the insulators ; and (5) offer dated 13th ult., by the
Crompton-Howell Electric Storage Company, Limited, for
the storage cells.
East Molesey. — We are pleased to see that there is a
disposition apparent to favour the introduction of electric
light in the smaller towns. Weybridge is already supplied,
and now East Molesey is trying to follow suit. At the last
Local Board meeting, the General Purposes Committee
reported that Mr. Everett had laid before them plans and
t<
(C
specifications for lighting the village by electricity. The
committee stated they were disposed to view such scheme
favourably, provided the interests of the parish were safe-
guarded by provisions as to the time in which the work
shall be carried out, as to the price for the supply, as to
the power of purchasing the concern, and such like matters.
The committee promised to report further on this matter
at the next meeting.
London Telephones. — ^The New Telephone Company
is evidently intending to make immediate progress. We
see by an advertisement in the daily press that the
supporters of the company's telephone exchange system in
London already number over 1,800. The Association for
the Protection of Telephone Subscribers (58, Coleman
street), after stringent investigation, has decided to give its
undivided support to the New Company. The public are
invited to test the company's instruments at 110, Cannon-
street. Intending supporters may obtain the service at a
lower rate if applied for at once, as the first 5,000 who
apply will only be charged 12 guineas a year. The
movement will give great satisfaction, we fancy, to
the numerous business houses in the City.
Blackpool. — The report of the gas manager upon the
present electric lighting on the Promenade is expected
shortly. It would have been ready before but for the fact
that the Council has increased the number of hours far above
that originally estimated during which the light should be
used. Had they allowed the control to remain with the gas
company, we are informed that the electric light would have
been extended along the greater portion of the Promenade.
It is certainly refreshing to learn — as we are given to
understand from various quarters — that gas committees
in many instances are not so bound up in gas that they
refuse to see the advantages of electric light, and in not a
few places the initiative has been taken — for example,
at Bradford — by the Gas Committee to introduce the com-
peting illuminant.
Telephony. — ^The article we gave in our last issue has,
as we expected, been taken as a manifesto of the National
Company, and, of course, we think it an exceedingly able
manifesto. We are now able to give the reply to this
manifesto. Our readers can compare the arguments on
both sides and make their own conclusions as to which
makes out the better case. Our own opinions have
been often and freely expressed, and may be condensed
into the following statements. The London service of
the National is condemnably bad and dear. The Government
own the telegraph system, and telephony being a phase of
telegraphy, unless the Government owns the telephonic
system it is in danger of losing its capital and its business.
We think the Government ought to do the work. It seems
settled, however, that there is no possibility of this, and
the next best scheme is to support a company that will do
its work properly.
Bideford. — It may have been noticed that a correspon-
dent wrote requesting information as to the electric lighting
at Bideford in our last issue. According to the report of
the adjourned meeting of the Town Council — who are
slightly at loggerheads with the gas company — it was pro<
posed that the estimate from Tardrew and Son for the
supply of electric light be opened. This was done, and the
estimate showed that the plant for the electric light would
cost about £4,680, and the annual cost of maintenance
about £620. To some of the members the cost of mainte-
nance appeared rather high, but it was suggested that if
the Council erected an electric lighting plant of their own,
they could supply private consumers and make a profit.
Last year they {mid £490 to the gas company for the town
lamps. It was agreed to pay Messrs. Tardrew and Sons
460
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 13, 1892.
twelve guineas for preparing the electric lighting estimate,
and the question was referred to the committee.
Sale Cataloffne. — We have received from Messrs.
Wheatley Kirk, Price, and Goulty a catalogue of electrical
apparatus which is to be sold by auction on Tuesday and
Wednesday, May 17 and 18. Among other things, the
catalogue includes Brush and Willans. engines, Babcock-
Wilcox boilers, dynamos, transformers, carbons, arc lamps,
and a very large number of switches, roses, fuses, shades,
globes, etc., as well as instruments and other paraphernalia
of a general electric business, which is comprised in the
estate of Messrs. Nicholson, Jennings, and others. We
note also that there are several patent rights to be sold on
the second day of the sale — viz., patents No. 17,479, of
November 13, 1888 ; No. 4,703, March, 1889 ; No. 9,917,
June 17, 1889. The whole of the rights in the above
patents to be sold, and a half share of No. 19,695,
December 7, 1889.
Eleotxloity on Board Ship. — The paper which we
reproduced last week on electricity applied to naval
purposes, by Lieutenant F. T. Hamilton, has attracted a
good deal of attention in public circles ; more particularly
perhaps, because the Duke of Edinburgh was present at
the meeting of the Koyal United Service Institution on
the occasion. After the lecture, the Duke complimented
the author, and said that he could help feeling at the
same time that it would not be well to run too much risk
in trusting to electricity, or lay ships open to disaster if a
single wire were cut or out of order. He described some
electric fan ventilators in use on board the yacht of the
Czar of Russia, and said that while they were very effective
they unfortunately made a considerable noise, and it was
a temptation to obviate the noise at the sacrifice of the
fresh air by stopping them. Some of our readers may be
able to recommend less noisy electric fans for ship use.
Ladlow. — At the monthly meeting of the Town
Council an application was made from the British Electric
Installation Contractors, of Worcester, for the sanction of
the Council to their making application to the Board of
Trade for a license to supply electricity to the town. The
Worcester Company intended to transfer the license, if
obtained, to the Ludlow Electric Lighting Company, when
that company had been registered. This application has
been referred to a committee, consisting of the Mayor,
Alderman Valentine, and Councillors Lloyd, Chubb,
Marston, Weyman, Tyrrell, and Smith. It seems to us
that this committee should carefully consider whether it is
in the interests of any local authority to permit a mere act
of company-mongering, which this seems to be, where one
company obtains a provisional order and then transfers it
to another company — of course with a view to profiting
directly by the transfer and also by obtaining the work of
the installation.
York. — The Sub-Committee of the York City Council
had a conference with Mr. Crompton, who is acting as their
consulting engineer, on Monday, and subsequently pre-
sented a report to a meeting of the Streets and Buildings
Committee. The meeting was attended by representatives
of the three firms which had submitted estimates — viz.,
R. E. Crompton and Co., Limited, the Parsons Company
(Newcastle), and the Brush Electrical Company. The first-
named company, which was represented by Mr. Crompton,
submitted estimates based on the low- tension principle ;
whilst the others estimated the cost of an installation
on the high-tension system. Eventually the committee re-
quested Mr. Crompton to prepare a specification for the
public and private lighting of a given area, and the Council
will be asked to sanction an application for tenders in
accordance therewith. A canvass of the town is in progress.
and the replies already received promise consumers to the
extent of 3,000 lights.
Vlliratory Cvrrents. — Mr. Frank C. Perkins has
rather " struck oil " in the way of copy fur the EleUrkal
Worlds by asking electrical celebrities on this side to give
their opinion as regards Tesla's experiments, whether the
effects are due to high potential and high frequency alone,
and whether Ohm's law can be said to hold good. Mr.
Preece, Prof. Hughes, Mr. Kapp, Prof. Hopkinson,
Prof. Ayrton, Mr. Crookes, Prof. S. P. Thompson,
Prof. Fleming, Mr. A. Siemens, Mr. Swinburne, Mr.
Wimsburst, Mr. Crompton, various editors, and Sir
W. Thomson have replied. The result of it all is,
of course, "we don't quite know, but we think so,"
or " think not," as the case may be. And here it must
evidently remain until we gain more actual experience in
vibratory currents. Ohm's law, however, comes out as the
Yankees say, " battered, but still in the ring." Some dis-
believe in Ohm's law for alternating currents, and talk of
ohmic resistance. Mr. Swinburne considers " Ohm's law
holds good for all frequencies, though self-induction
becomes more important in high frequencies." Prof. S. P.
Thompson says Ohm's law is not a question of opinion,
"but a question of fact." Lord Kelvin (Sir William
Thomson) regretted he did not see Tesla's experiments.
HiflTli-Speed Eleotrio Railways. — The question of
high-speed railway trains driven electrically is receiving
attention at the hands of electrical engineers in both
America and France. In America, Mr. 0. T. Crosby and
Mr. David Weems are credited with practical projects for
the production of what are now regarded as abnormal
speeds. In France, M. Heilmann has given some attention
to the problem, his idea being to generate electricity by
means of a special engine and boiler on board the locomo-
tive, using the electrical energy to rotate the car wheels. We
notice that two prominent engineers — M. Bonneau, assistant
chief engineer to the great Paris-Lyons-Mediterran^ Rail-
way, and M. Desroziers, electrical engineer, whose name is
well known in dynamo construction — are now bending their
attention to the use of electricity for high-speed railway
trains. It is thought possible, by means of electric
traction, that the run from Paris to Marseilles, 862 kilo-
metres, now accomplished in 15 hours, might be done in
nin3 hours. The arrangement proposed by MM. Bonneau
and Desroziers consists in employing motors on two indepen-
dent axles, the diameter of the wheel being 2*30 metres
(7|ft.), with rail conductors. Some particulars and drawings
are given in the Revue IndustrieUe of the electric locomotive,
but it does not appear that the project has yet got into the
practical stage.
Eleotrio Lighting in Scotland. — Benmore House,
the residence of Henry J. Younger, Esq., is to be lighted
by electricity, and we are informed that the contract for
the carrying out of the work has been placed with Messrs.
Ernest Scott and Mountain, Limited, electrical and general
engineers, Close Works, Newcastle-on-Tyne. The installa-
tion will consist of a Priestman oil engine capable of
working up to 18 brake h.p., driving a Tyne shunt-wound
dynamo of 12,000 watts capacity; accumulators will be
supplied for storage, and will be placed in the accumulator-
house, next to the dynamo-room, the battery or accumulators
being capable of maintaining 80 arc lamps for 10 hours
when fully charged. The total number of lamps installed
throughout the house will be about 180 to 200. Mr. W. A.
Bryson, of Glasgow, has been appointed superintending
engineer on behalf of Mr. Younger, and Messrs. Mountain
and Co., of 7, Botbwell-street, Glasgow, representatives for
Messrs. Ernest Scott and Mountain, Limited, in Scotland, will
superintend the carrying out of the work. Through their
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 13, 1892.
461
Scotch agents, we are informed that this firm have already
supplied numerous electric light plants, including installa-
tions for the firms of Messrs. Paterson, Elder, and Co.,
Messrs. Cran and Co., both of Leith, Messrs. Hutchinson
and Co., of Kirkcaldy. They have also recently completed
contracts for the lighting of the Glasgow Iron and Steel
Company's works at Wishaw, and one of their collieries at
Motherwell.
Oakamoor. — Some of our readers may know that the
Staffordshire County Council entered heartily into the
scheme of having popular lectures on technical subjects in
various parts of the county. The last of the series of
lectures on ''Electricity and Magnetism" under the technical
instruction scheme of the County Council has been given in
the schoolroom by Mr. D. 0. S. Davies, B.Sc., under the
presidency of Mr. A. S. Bolton. The series, which has
been well attended throughout, has been very successful,
the greater interest being shown perhaps in those lectures
dealing with electric lighting by dynamo and battery,
the electric telegraph, and the telephone. For the purpose
of popularising the subject, Mr. Davies has been very
happy in his general references to the uses, domestic and
otherwise, to which the concentration of the lines of
force can now be put. Among these are the heating of
curling-tongs and fiatirons, the cooking of chops and steaks,
and the boiling of saucepans and kettles. These compara-
tively minor details, together with the copious experiments,
have made the series both entertaining and instructive.
At the conclusion, Mr. Bolton, in proposing a vote of
thanks, spoke warmly of the services rendered by the
lecturer to the spread of the science in the district. A vote
of thanks to the president brought the series to a close. It
is suggested to have an extended course early in the
autumn. Perhaps, as an outcome of these lectures, and the
interest taken therein, may be attributed the fact that in
the private theatricals given in the new schools electricity
was called in to light the stage.
Londonderry* — The recently-appointed consulting
engineer to the Londonderry Corporation, Mr. Henry W.
Blake, is a resident of Manchester, and has for some years
been carrying out consulting work in steam and electrical
engineering. He was educated at Victoria College, and
passed through all stages of mechanical engineering in the
shops, afterwards establishing his own laboratory in Man-
chester. He has carried out several important eleotrical
installations both in the North and South of England —
in London, a large mill at Bermondsey, 700 incan-
descents; in Portsmouth he was retained by the
Admiralty to engineer the lighting at the festivities
on the visit of the French Navy last year, and was
engineer to the Portsmouth Town Hall, about 1,000
lights, with Mather and Piatt dynamo— one of the largest,
if not the largest gas-engine-installations in England. The
then Mayor (Sir William King) bore witness to the excellence
of the lighting, and this led to his being called in as one of
the consulting engineers to submit plans for the town
lighting of Portsmouth. He advocated high-tension con-
tinuous currents, but the low-tension system was then
chosen, afterwards, however, as is known, changed to high-
tension transformers. Mr. Blake had previously carried
out a large mill installation in Londonderry of over 1,000
lights, which no doubt led to his being selected from the
32 candidates for the town lighting. Derry is a scattered
town, though walled, and the high-tension system should
be used, but on account of the power that could be taken
up, a system allowing the use of motors would be preferable.
Messrs. Siemens's Works. — Adescription which may
be justly mentioned as one of the feats of trade journalism
is given of the works of Messrs. Siemens Bros, and Co.,
Limited, in the Momufacturers* Engineering and Export
Jcmrnai for April. The bulk of the paper, 50 pages, is
taken up with a most elaborate descriptive article, with
many full-page illustrations, and it certainly gives to those
who do not know the place a very accurate idea of the
immense activity of the Siemens electrical works on the
banks of the Thames at Woolwich. Portraits are first
given of the late Sir William Siemens and of Mr. Carl
Siemens and Dr. Werner von Siemens, with an historical
sketch of the progress of the individuals and the firm, from
the landing of William Siemens in England in 1843, with a
sand-bath thermopile for electroplating, to the erection of the
present works. A copy of Dr. Werner*s letter, quoted
from Dr. Pole's book, announcing his original discovery of
the self-excited dynamo, makes interesting reading. A list
of the cables laid by the firm is also given. Photographs
of the long line of buildings and of the interiors of the
shops are exceedingly interesting to electrical engineers.
We are shown the automatic shaping shop, the braiding
shop, the indiarubber-mills, the testing-rooms, and the
cable-tanks. The main dynamo fitting shop shows a scene
of exceeding activity, and the instrument shop is an avenue
of lathes. The various departments of heavy machine con-
struction are very well brought out in the photographic
reproductions. We are afterwards shown views of the
telegraph ship " Faraday," with deck views in process of
hauling cable, and, finally, a number of manufactures, con-
sisting of electrical instruments, dynamos, cables, and the
other well-known specialities of the firm. Altogether, the
article makes a very comprehensive review of the present
state of electrical manufacture. The paper is published at
22, Paternoster-row ; price Is.
Storage Battory Traotion. — Mr. J. R. Pumpelly
has been engaged upon the development of storage batteries
for traction purposes for some time past in America, and
has produced one or two variations on the well-known
models of plates. He now gives some account in the
Western Electricia/n of recent progress in that direction.
The objections, he says, to the use of storage cars are well
known : want of durability over any large length of time,
cost of manufacture and cost of renewals. Within the last
few months his attention has been drawn to excellent
remits attained by two young men in Des Moines, Iowa,
one a practical worker in batteries and. the other a prominent
chemist, the president of the State Laboratory of Pharmacy
of Iowa. After spending much time in improving the
pasted or Faure battery, they turned their attention
to developing the Plants or formed lead cell. In
their cell the lead plates are made very rapidly by
folding long strips or ribbons of lead about ^in. wide and
^in. thick. The plates are immersed in a certain salt solu-
tion as electrolyte, and a large current from a dynamo is
turned on. In 10 hours the plates have become one smooth
plate of spongy lead, black as slate, yet very absorbent of
hydrogen. Nothing remains but to separate these plates,
connect up, and charge as a battery for 10 hours more.
This done, the plates are ready for use or shipment. Mr.
Pumpelly has seen this battery tested under heaviest work,
and the plates, instead of appearing to disintegrate,
grow firmer. The battery holds its pressure of over
two volts to the cell under very heavy discharge until
90 per cent, of the charge is drawn out — that is, there
is not the usual drop in voltage. A car built to hold
six men is guaranteed by the inventor, with 24 cells, to run
at 13 miles an hour, and the battery can be recharged in
three hours. A battery in use eight or nine months, says
Mr. Pumpelly, showed no signs of crumbling, and a dis-
charge by short-circuit of 500 amperes seemed to produce
no harmful efiect at all.
462
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAT 13, 1892.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
DIRECT-CnBRBNT DYNAMOS.— VII.
BT B. W. WEEEES, WHIT.BCH.
The accompuiyinj; illustration of the Roper Engineering
Company's 10-kilowatt cost iron dynamo arrived too late
for inurtion in our last issue, Tbis shows the construction
of the machine, and how the exciting coils can be slipped
on over the polee.
Messrs. lAston and Anderson exhibit some machines
which are worthy of careful inspection. The field mat^nets
are of > the Manchester type, so designed that the armature
reaction shall distort the field as little as possible. As
described in a previous article, the armature is of the
Pacinotti type, and the distance between the projecting
teeth of the core and the polee is much less than the
corresponding distance in a smooth-cored armature. The
advantage of this is that the magnetising force required to
saturate the iron core is small, and hence the exciting coils
can be made short and compact. The short air gap, how-
ever, has the disadvantage of increasing the distortive
effect of cross ampere-turns on the armature. If the cross
ampere-turns were the same as in a smooth-cored armature
of the same size, the distortion produced would be greater
injthe inverse ratio of the length of the air gaps. From j
required. The path of the lines of force indooed
by these cross turns was shown in Fig. 27, and it w^l
be seen from this that if th^ pole-piece is made thin
in the centre, additional resistance will be placed in the
path. So in these machines, the pole-pieces, which are made
of cast iron, are reduced to a very small section at the
centre, as can be seen in the illustration. The result is that
the distortion is reduced to reasonable limits, and the
machines run sparkless at all loads and without ezceanve
lead at full loaa. The general details of these dynamos
are excellent. The magnet cores are of wrought Iron, and
Flo. 27.
are bolted on to the cast-iron pole-pieces. These, except at
the centre, are made with ample section to reduce the
magnetic resistance. The exciting coils are wound on
formers, and are carefully protected against injury by a
metal casing. The bearings are of exceptional length, being
at the driving end five times the diameter of the shaft
The 15-kilowatt belt-driven dynamo shown by this firm has
the highest weight efficiency of the machines listed, and the
larger direct-driven dynamo of the same output also stands
high. In these larger machines the induction used in the
armature core is not so high as in the small machines.
This keeps down the hysteresis loss, and partly accounts
this it will be seen that the distortion of the field tends to
become excessive even in small machines, in which this type
of armature is used. That this is so is shown by the care
taken to reduce this effect by the special design of field
magnets adopted by this firm and Messrs. Laurence, Scott,
ana Co., who use the same type of armature. Messrs.
Easton and Anderson, in their smaller machines, work at a
very high induction in the armature core, and hence get
fewer turns of conductor, and correspondingly fewer cross
ampere-turns on the armature at full load. This helps to
some extent, and may reduce the cross turns as much as
15 per cent., but naturally increases the exciting power
for the lower figure. This good feature, coupled with
the mechanical driving of each conductor, should make
these machines of special value for tramcar work, where
light weight and ability to withstand the large forces
required in starting are of primary importance. In fact,
these makers are supplying some motors for the tramcars at
Bradford for experimental purposes, but the type of field
used is different to the above.
The four-pole dynamo exhibited by Messrs. Laurence,
Scott, and Co. is coupled to an engine for use as a ship-
lighting plant. The armature is of the Pacinotti type,
and works with a small air gap between the polar surface
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 13, 1892.
463
and the projecting teeth. The method used bv this firm
to prevent the distortion of the field is simikr in prin-
ciple to that deecribed above, but it is carried to the
extreme. Instead of reducing the iron to a thin aection
in the centre of the pole-piece, this firm construct their
field with an air gap at this point The construction is briefly
as follovre. Each magnetic circuit in the field consists of a
distinct horseshoe of cast iron, embracing a little leas than
a quarter of the armature. These separate magnets are
placed so that the distance between tnem is about |in.
Thus any section taken through the polar surface
would show these four distinct magnets, but the yoke
IB made broader than the poles, and continuous, so as
to unite these separate circuits into one casting or two as
the case may demand. In this way the variation of induc-
tion at any two parte of ths polar auriace is reduced to a
quarter of what it would be if the pole were solid. This
firm also claims that these gaps reduce the Foucault current
in the wire. The reason of this would be that the ezces-
sively high induction at the exit edge of the polar surface
is reduced, but care must be taken that the gap in the poles
is not wide enough to allow of an appreciable fall of induc-
tion, or there will be additional loss due to the Foucault
the magnets of the large dynamos. Thus in their 112-
kilowatt dynamo the magneta consist of a set of six bars,
placed side by side, each bar being 6in. square. Wrought-
iron pole-horns are dovetailed on to the bars when required,
to give the necessary arc of contact. The yokes are made
of solid pieces of wrought iron, and the bars are bolted on
to these nefoie being bored out to the final diameter. The
main advantage of this double-circuit type of field is that
the induction is symmetrical piovided the exciting power
in each circuit is the same. If this is not the case, or
there should be any great inequality in the iron used for
the different circuits, the field may be quite as nnsym-
metrical as in the single-circuit typea of magnet.
The constant-current dynamos exhibited by this firm can
be used either for arc lighting in aeries or the aeries system
of driving tramcars. I^e special feature of the machine is
the method adopted for regulating the pressure to suit the
load. This is done by rotating the brush carriers forward
past the neutral axis till the right potential difference is
obtained. Then in each of the armature circuits we have
a certain number of conductors with E.M.F. in them
opposed to the current actqally flowing through them.
Hence the effective E.U.F. Is tna difiiarence between the
currents produced as the conductors pass the gaps. In the
machine in question the gaps are |in., which is about four
timea the space between the pole and the armature core,
and this is at>out the utmost limit allowable. The general
construction of this dynamo is excellent. The exciting
coils are wound on formers and slipped on from the inside.
The armature is drum wound, and the ventilation of the
cores is ample.
' Messrs. Woodhouse and Bawson exhibit one of their
Cornbrook dynamos, used as a motor to drive the Kingdon
alternator. The machine is of the single-exciting coil type,
which almost every firm baa attempted to make at some
time, but has generally been abandoned or confined to amall
motor work. There must necessarily be a much higher
induction at the parts of the poles nearest the exciting
coils, and this want of magnetic aymmetry is the great
failing in thie type of field.
Measrs. Crompton and Co. use the double-circuit type
of field magnet for nearly alt their dynamoa. In the small
machines the magnets are arranged vertically, but in the
larger machines the horizontal fonn is uaed. Their usual
method of building the magnets is to make them of bara of
wrought iron, of square section, and of such dimenaions
that the iron can be rolled instead of forged. Then a
number of such bara are placed side by side to build up
two opposing forces. This seema simple, but the diEGculty
arises in getting the dynamoa to submit to this treatment
without sparking. Thia ia done by ao shaping the poles
that the induction passing into the core is constant for a con-
siderable areainside the approaching horn, and also is just the
induction required to reverse the current in the segment
abort-circuited while passing under the brush. In this
machine the above conditions are obtained by boring out
the cast-iron pole-pieces to a larger diameter than required,
and so placing them that the distance between the pole
and armature core increaaea towards the horns. The
automatic gear for moving the bruab carriers cod-
aiata of a solenoid energised by the main current, which
actuates one of two pawls on » rocking lever, which, when
in gear, rotates the bruah carrier till ue proper current is
again obtained. One pawl is brought into action if the
current falls and the other if it nses above the correct
value. The machine ia well made, and it ia a pity it is not
shown at work ao that the automatic wording can be
watched.
The larger four-pole dynamo made by this firm for
central station work was illustrated in a previous article
{vide Electrieai Engineer, April 16, 1892). The general shape
of the field is much like the double-circuit horizontal type.
:nie method of building the field up of rolled bars has been
464
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 13, 1892.
abandoned in this cuo, and slabs of iron, 14in. by 12in,
section, ore used. The two yoke-pieces are also forgings.
These pieces are Sin. thick, which is the distance
round the armaturB surface between any two poles.
As will be seen in the illustration of this machine,
the lower magnet bars are sopported by ganmatal
brackets at both ends, and to secure perfect
rigidity the poles are stayed together by gunmetal
links at the front and back surfaces. This macbine will
not have a symmetrical field like the two-pole double-
circuit type, but the want of symmetry will not cause any
mechanical strain on the bearini^. The field practically
conaista of two ordinary two-pole field magnets with
shortened pole-pieces fitted to one armature. Hence, as in
the two-pole machines, the induction will be higher at the
places through which the shortest magnetic path passes, and
m this case that is at the edges which lie nearest the
horizontal line through the centre. The pull caused by
one side will be balanced by that on the other, but the
result electrically will be still detrimental, and most likely
will reduce the non-sparking position of the brushes to a
smaller area than if symmetry had been obtained. This
machine is not working at present
Messrs. Johnson and Phillips show the largest multi-
polar dynamo in the Exhibition, and also have on their
stall the first experimental machine they manufactured of
this type. The general principle underlying the design is
that of a massive yoke ring with intern^ poles projecting
from it. This ensures little stray field, and gives
ample space for the exciting coils; also this form gives
a periectly symmetrical field, and ensures both mechanical
and magnetic balance. Both machines are made
Djiiuna.
entirely of caat iron, but the recent dynamo supplied
by this firm to the St. Pancras Vestry bad wrougbt-iron
magnet cores.
As the four-pole arc lighter is, as stated, an experi-
mental macbine, it will be well to consider chiefly the
eight-pole dynamo shown coupled to the Paxman triple-
expansion engine. In this machine the half-yoke ring and
four of the magnet cores form one casting, and so there are
very few joints in the magnetic circuits. The rectangular
pole-pieces are also made of cast iron, and fastened on to
the magnets by countersunk screws after tbe exciting coils
have Iwen slipped on. The magnets are of circular
section, as this is the most economical form, and
uses the minimum of copper in the exciting circuits,
and also the coils are more easily wound than if a
rectangular section were used. The number of cross ampere-
turns on the armature per pole is not large because of the
number of poles used, and at all loads the machine runs
absolutely sparkless. Owing to the large diameter of tbe
armature, the iron core occupies a comparatively small
part of the diameter, and tbe central part is thus left open
and ensures perfect ventilation. In fact, the heat can be
dissipated so quickly that armatures of this type, when
short-circuited by faults in the mains, have not burnt out, as
is usually the case, but have taken the excessive current
unharmed.
The weight and floorspace efficiency for this machine
are both high, and if allowance is made for the fact
that the frame is made entirely of cast iron, the weight
efficiency would then be equal to that obtained in the
four-pole machine of tbe same output made by Messrs.
Crompton and Co. The high value obtained by both these
dynamos justifies, if for no other reason, the use of the
multipolar types.
The Gulcher Company exhibit one of their well-known
types of dynamos for arc lighting on the parallel system.
The field is of the four-pole double-circuit type, used by
these makers and the Brush Company, with disc armatures.
The difficulty in this type of dvnamo is to keep the
armature central in the field. If the core should for any
reason be slightly nearer one set of poles than the other,
a magnetic force tends to pull the core still further over.
In this machine there is provision made for adjusting the
two bearings at any time by screws till the arnutare is
again central when any displacement occurs.
The other direct-current dynamos in the Exhibition which
I have not mentioned are mostly exceedingly well-known
machines, such as the Brush and tbe Thomson-Houston arc
lighters, both of the open-circuit type of armature. The
Thomson-Houston direct-current dynamo is of the four-pole
internal type, but the details of construction could not be
obtained.
In conclusion, I have to thank the representatives of the
various firms exhibiting for the prompt and courteous
manner in which they have answerea all my many
enquiries for the particulars of their machinery.
TELEPHONY— A REPLY.
The article which we published last week on telephony
has directed keen attention to the probable tactica of the
National Telephone Company in tbe impending crisis.
Assuming the article to be an authorised statement of the
position of the National Telephone Company from their
own point of view, it was suggested to us that it would bs
but right to allow their competitors, the New Telephone
Company, to have their say in the matter. That company
has accordingly furnished the following information as
showing their view of the question.
The National Telephone Company is, according to the
recently -published and uncontradicted findings of indepen-
dent investigators, so enormously overload<»d with capital
that it is unable to make progress even if it would. It
would be bad taste on the part of an opponent to cite
particulars on such a topic, but it is permissible to state
so much, seeing that the National Company have allowed
the recent article in Tnith,* which professed to dissect their
financial condition, to pass uncliallenged.
In acting as they have been lately doing, the National
Telephone Company have imitated one of Dickens's
characters, who behaved at the funeral as if be alone were
" notoriously immortal." They haveseemed to forget that
iheir patents would ever cease, and that without exclusive
patent rights any ill-management must rise up in judgment
against them. The fact has been lost sight of in the
history of the telephone that at first there was no excliuive
right given by the Government. Licenses wore granted to
several persons, and the sole reason why these have not
been proceeded with has been the exclusive possession of
tbe controlling telephone patents by the National Com-
pany. Mr. Fawcett had the idea that the telephone service
of Great Britain should be put Up to full competition. He
granted licenses whenever asked, without much enquiry,
and not only gave them to duly registered telephone
companies, but to sundry private persons and firma
One of these licenses was granted to the Stsuhope
Company, one of the partners of which became possessed
of a patent for a vibrating parchment diaphragm, Another
license was granted, as is known, to a company — the
original New Telephone Company— formed to carry out
patents of Prof. S. P, Thompson, which was originally in
the hands of Lord Thurlow, Lord Sudeley, Mr. John
Sellon, Prof, Thompson, and Mr. Courtenay. It is this
company that the present New Telephone Company is
based upon. The old company was entirely bought
up — assets and liabilities ; liquidated and reconstituted.
The last license was obtainad by Mr. Provand, M.P.
' r one of the divisions of Glasgow, his idea being to
* See TnUlt, March 10, 1892.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAT 13, 1892.
465
start telephone exchanges on the cooperative principle
throughout the country. The business of this company —
the Mutual — has also been bought up by the New
Company, thus securing then, as a basis for their system
the twin-wire exchanges established by the Mutual in
Manchester and Bolton with the trunk wires between them,
as well as the services of Mr. A. R. Bennett, whose talents
as a telephone engineer are widely recognised. This
system — which has given great satisfaction, and has grown
by leaps and bounds since its opening in February, 1S91 —
the New Telephone Company purchased for exactly what
it cost, with not a penny for added capital. There are,
therefore, three going companies comprised in the New
Company — viz., the Mutual, the New (S. P. Thompson),
and the Stanhope.
From a public point of view, their present position, to
which it appears from their manifesto the National
Company take grievous exception, has been forced upon
Government by simple business considerations. The Post
Office hold the telegraph monopoly, and have paid a large
sum of public money which it is absolutely necessary to
safeguard. The Post Office have power to run wires without
having to pay much for wayleaves ; they have power to place
wires underground, and have also running powers along
railways. The telephone companies have permission to lay
trunk wires, but no power either along railways or high-
ways, and have to obtain wayleaves from individuals
and local authorities. Therefore the New Telephone
Company believe they would be right in giving up their
claim to this power, as they are asked to do by Govern-
ment, because the Post Office are themselves willing,
in return, to give all underground facilities which would be
required in municipal districts for a perfect twin-wire
system, and also run inter-town trunk mains of sufficient
capacity to give good telephonic service.
The New Telephone Cfompany intend to adhere rigidly
to the twin-wire system, so that every subscriber may
obtain the fullest benefit from the Government trunks, and
be able to communicate freely and efiectually from his own
office or house to the Ultima Thule of the system. The
importance of such a universal service as this can
hardly be over-estimated. For Press purposes, for instance,
such a system will be invaluable. If there is, say, a great
political meeting in the Free Trade Hall, Manchester, the
reporter can telephone the speech direct to the editor's
office in London as fast as the speech is delivered, and all
the trouble will be saved of putting the speeches through
the telegraph instruments. We have thus the great inter-
town purposes served. For the municipal service every
subscriber will have his own twin-wire connection to every
other subscriber, and for the amount of his subscription
can talk for a minute or all day if he wishes.
But further than this, the requirements of the getieral
public will also be served by an arrangement which it is pro-
posed shall be made between the Post Office and the New
Telephone Company. Every post office will be in connection
with the municipal exchange, and thus in connection with
the trunk lines all over the country. At the present time,
if you wish to send a telegram you have to go down to the
post office, compress your meaning into a few words, and
send a short telegram. Under the new arrangement you
will call up the post office, who will connect you to the
nearest post office to your friend's house ; you will dictate
your message, as long or as short as you please (paying by
time, not by words), and the typewriter wUl type your
message and the boy will deliver it exactly as a note or a
letter is delivered. Everybody will therefore partake of
the improved service, and not the telephone subscribers
alone. At first, until some experience has demonstrated
the practicability of a lower, the annual rate to subscribers
for London will be £14, although the first 5,000 who join
will be charged £12. 12s. only. For telephoned telegrams
there may \^ a small extra fee. The rates for the country
towns will not exceed £8 a year ; and of course the public
can send typewritten telegrams from the public call offices
as they do now with the ordinary telegrams, with the
greater advantage of not having to compress their words or
pay exorbitant rates.
From the public and political point of view the Govern-
ment were bound to take some action of this kind. Rightly
or wrongly, they have some eleven millions of public money
invested in the telegraph monopoly. If Government were
not to adopt their present policy they would either have
certainly to lose enormously in telegraphic business, or
they must eventually be forced to buy up the telephone
companies. Now against the question of purchase there
are two serious objections. The first is a very practical
one at this moment, that the license stipulates for the
power to purchase once in seven years. The first period of
seven years has already expired, and therefore will not
come round again for another seven years, during which
time much loss might accrue to the Government monopoly
in telegraphs.
This leads to the second objection, which can only be
properly seized after reading the purchase clause of the
license. This clause is very badly drawn, and no one
knows exactly what it is that is to be purchased if the
desire were to purchase. Some two years ago Lord
Salisbury was approached with the view of forcing a
purehase, and Mr. Saikes also was interviewed, but it was
pointed out that no definite knowledge could be gained from
the clause as to what the Government would be liable to
pay for. A valuer was to be appointed bv each side and
an impartial arbitrator, but what the arbitrator was to
arbitrate upon was not stated — whether he was to adjudge
the value of goodwill, capital, and so forth, or simply
value of instruments, lines, and so forth as a system —
so that it was quite possible the Government might be
landed in the old telegraph purchase difficulty once again,
and the public be made to pay three or four millions for
practically nothing. This they determined not to do.
Now to go to the purely practical question of telephonic
plant. It has been perfectly apparent for some time that
the telephonic service would eventually cut out the tele-
graph. Akeady in the French Post Office the receipts from
the trunk lines of telephones form the best-paying part of
the department. This the National Telephone Company
have recognised, and promptly set to work to establish
trunk lines, but, unfortunatelv for them, their urban
systems are composed of single wires, which cannot be
connected to the looped trunks without considerable loss of
efficiency, so that, except for comparatively short distances,
patrons of the inter-town lines have to go to special offices
to speak — an intolerable and, in the light of modern know-
ledge, an absolutely unneccessary, restriction. Besides
which, subscribers on the single-wire systems have no
guarantee that their most private communications are not
overheard by trade rivals.
If the National Company possessed an efficient system
it would have been perfectly useless for the New Tele-
phone, or any other company, to attempt to oust
them. If they had even 6,000 subscribers in London on a
satisfactory service, it would have been hopeless. But they
have not. Their 6,000 subscribers are connected to an un-
satisfactory service, and when, in addition to providing
better methods, the Mew Company are content to receive
some £44,000 per annum less than is now paid by the
London subscribers, it is not difficult to predict which side
the victorv will ultimately incline. Onee established, the
battle will be won : there will be no need to seek
subscribers.
What must happen to the National Telephone Company
under such circumstances hardly yet seems to be realised.
To compete with the New Company, they would have both
to reduce their rates and improve their service. If with a
rate of £20 in London and £10 in the country they con-
trive to pay a 7 per cent, dividend on their enormous
capital, it is the matter of a simple act of accountancy to
see what would be the effect of reducing their rates to any
acceptable extent. But in order even then to compete the^
must rearrange their system and use twin wires, which is
as much as to sav that they must take down their wires,
lay new lines, and change their switchboards. This means
beginning over again, with new expenditure on top of their
three millions. The only chance would be to boldly write off
half the present capital, and tackle the problem unhesitat-
ingly on modern lines. Whether they will do this remains
to be seen ; but it is certain that the National Telephone
Company can no longer occupy a masterful position, and,
as of old, control the situation.
466
THE ELECTTRICAL ENGINEER, MAT 13, 1892.
THE PTKE AND HARRIS ALTERNATE-CURRENT
DYNAHO.
In lut week's iesue we oalled attention to this machine
aa ibown at the Royal Society. The UluBtration repreeente
a 100-light alternate-current dynamo on this system. The
inductors are shown separately.
This machine is designed to work on the inductor prin-
ciple, primarily designed by Farad^, and is claimed to
embody the followinf; advantages : The machine is vary
compact — the whole machine consisting of two castings,
iron stampings, and coils — and is exceedingly cheap and
simple to construct. Like machines worked on the
inductor principle, it has the advantage of no rotating
wire or sliding electric contacts ; both the field and arma-
ture coils are stationary ; and a further advantage is that
in case of the failure of one or several of tbo coils, there is
a fuse arrangement attached to each connection, which
melts before the current from the active coils passes into
^e defective one.
Fig- 1 represents a vertical seotion, B representing the
magnetic mass forming an annular space for the inducing
J^vJ
sabject to great m^netic strains, to resist which requires
extreme rigidity. The material of which the inductors are
composed requires to be built of the softest iron lamipn,
and the laminte are fixed by bolts of considerable thick-
ness with strong metal supports. These strengthening
parts, placed as they usually are in a powerful magnetic
field of varying intensity, are favourably situated for the
generation in themselves of a considerable amount of eddy
currents. One important point in Messrs. Pyke and
Harris's invention consists in interleaving strengthening
metal between the lamine of soft iron which constitutes
the inductor. In the present machine the inductors are
placed parallel to the axis of rotation of the carrier. The
principle of strengthening plates in each inductor, and the
principle of soft iron plates between the pair of strengthen-
ing plates, of course varies according to requirements. The
plates are separated from each other by thin sheets of
paper as is usual, steel sheets being used for the strengthen-
ing I ami nee.
Fig, 6 is a section, and Fig. 7 a face view of one of the
reels carrying the secondary coils. The inductor carrier,
which is of gunmetal, is represented by C, Fig. 1, mounted
on one end of the driving shsit, S. Electric currente an
/'iff. 2.
ooil and enclosing the latter on three sides. D is the
inducing coil, which is surrounded with a mass of magnetic
materii^ on its inner and outer circumference and on one
face, the said magnetic mass extending beyond the edge of
the coil. The said face is then closed, except at a narrow
zone sufficient for the rotation of the inductors, by placing
on the extensions of the magnetic mass flat annular lamin»,
in the form of soft charcoal iron stampings, shown in Fig. 4,
arranged so as to form a continuation of the field magnet,
provided with the necessary polar projections. The laminie
are rigidly fixed to one another and to the field magnet,
shown in Figs. 3 and 4.
Fig. 2 is an end view, the right half being shown with
the inductors and the left half without the inductors. The
left half shows also some of the polar projections without
the secondary coils. S represents the driving shaft,
supported by the magnetic mass and carrying at one end
the inductors, while at the other end is fixed the driving
pulley, P. The shaft is lubricated by means of a longi-
tudinal groove, which is supplied from a lubricator through
an oblique passage, 1.
Fig. S is a perspective view of the inductor, which is of
approximately equal breadth to the distance from centre to
to centre of contiguous pole-pieces. These inductors are
produced by revolving the magnetic inductora in proximity
to the magnet, which is provided at both poles with polar
projections, serving as cores for the conductors in which
the current is to be induced, the object of the inductors
being to complete the magnetic circuit alternately through
each set of polar projections. An even number of polar
projections are employed, and the revolving inductors are
arranged so that in proportion as one pole is being demag-
netised the magnetism of the other pole incrooses,
and vice oersA, thus the total magnetic efiect being
always approximately constant. The induced current
conductor is so arranged that the polar projections which
are being magnetised and those which are being demagne-
tised have a similar inducing action upon it, the magnetising
of one set of polar projections thus increasing the efiTect
produced on the same wire by the demagnetintion of tbe
other set of polar projections.
This invention may be used in machines for the pro-
duction of single or many phase alternating, or for
continuous currents, the polar projections and the induced
current conductors being readily arranged for anv desired
disposition (in the case of inductor machines being so
arranged that the induced current conductor may be wound
on tbe polar projections).
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAT 13, 1892.
467
ST. PANCRAS ELECTRIC UGHT STATION.
Tbfl accompanying enKraving reureseDts a geDoral view
of the Begent'g Park Bt&tian, whicn we referr«l to in oiir
laader of the 29th ult It will be seen that there are 1 1
engines and dynamos known as the Kapp-WiUani com-
bination.
The engines are of Messrs. Willans and Robinson's latest
and improved triple-expansion type, and the dynamos are
Johnson and Phillips's well-known central etatioa multi-
Solar type, manufactured by that firm at Charlton, Messrs.
ohnson and Phillips being the owners of Mr. Kapp's
patent. They are similar to the large eight-pole machine
which is causing much attraction at the Crystal Palace (see
Ekctrwal Engineer, April 15th). The present machines,
however, have six instead of eight poles.
road and Euston-road, or for charging in aeriee four sets of
60 secondary batteries at the central station. These
dynamos are separately excited from the low-tension
circuit. At the official trial of this combination the steam
consumption was equal to 19'61b. per electrical horee power
per hour.
At present there are only 28 arc lamps in use, whioh
are worked in four parallels of eeven in series, but it is
likely that these will shortly he increased to 90, and
would be worked in nine parallels of 10 in series,
thus taking up the load of one dynamo, the other
one being held in reserve. The lamps already installed
are of the Broclde-Pell double-carbon new 33-hour type,
being specially designed for street work ; each lamp is
erected on an ornamental caet-iron post, at a height of 2Sft.
from gronnd level to centre of arc, at distances varying
from 160ft. to 245ft. apart along the middle of the road.
)w df tb« St Pucru E\tctTto Light Station.
Of these II dynamos, which are all continuous current,
six are wound for an output of 680 amperes at a maximum
of 130 volts, for supplying current to the street mains ;
three are wound for an output of 680 amperes at a maxi-
mum of 145 volts, for supplying current to the street
mains, or for charging accumulators. The above nine
machines are shunt wound, and are each supplied with a
switch by means of which they can be worked self-exciting
or separately excited, and are arranged for delivering
current on the three-wire system. The compactness of the
combination is amply shown by the fact that each steam
dynamo of 90 kilowatts output only requires an area of
10ft. 6in. by 5ft. 6in. of floor apace, a factor of the greatest
importance in central station works. At the official trial
at Thames Ditton, the above combination showed a con-
sumption of steam equal to ISGSlb. per electrical horse-
power per hour, when working on the condenser.
The remaining dynamos are wound for an output of
90 amperes at a maximum of 560 volts for supplying
current to the Brockie-Pell arc lamps in Tottenham Court-
In a chamber, at the base of each post, a double pole switch,
mounted on an oil insulator, is fitted, which switch allowi
of any lamp being cut out of circuit without interfering
with the current of the other lamps whilst that particular
lamp is being trimmed during foggy weather, or for any
other reason when it may be required to cut out a lamp.
Alternate lamps are put on diS'erent circuits, so that at
midnight, or at any specified time, half of the lampe can be
switched out at the central station, leaving the intermediate
lamps still in circuit.
The whole of the works have been designed and carried
out by Prof. Henry Robinson, M.InstC. and E.K, West
minster.
Kanaaa Elaotrio Railway. — An electric elevated
railway is to be established at Kansas City, Kansas, the
Elevated Railway Company having been granted an ordi-
nance permitting it to operate its One by electricity instead
of steam.
468
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, VLAt 13, 1892.
tLECTRICAL ENGINEER.
Pabllsbed every TvUaj,
PrlM Threepenee ; Poet Free, Threepenee Halfpennr-
Editorial snd Pabllshln? Offloes :
1S&-140, SALISBURY COURT, FLEET STREET,
LONDON. E.C.
Man ..
Telei^ony^A Reply 464
TbePykeftnd Harns Alter-
aato-Cmreiit Dynamo 466
St. Fuicrai Electric Light
Station 467
Electncitf and Sanitation.,. 46S
Electric and Cable Railwaya 469
CoTTDBpoDdeDce 469
Ezpeninents irith Alternate
Currents of High Poten-
tial and High Freqnoncy 470
CONTENTS.
The Cbicaso Exhibition ... 470
The BrlBtd Tenders 471
Notwi on the Light of the
Electric Arc 471
London County Council 474
Tannton 474
Companiee' Meetings 477
Companies' Reports 478
New Companies Registered 479
Provisional Patents, 1892 ...
Specifications Pablisfaed ...
Companiee' Stock and Share
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ELECTRICITY AND SANITATION.
Some tbiee oi foui yeajs ago a scheme was put
forward by Mr. Webster, at a meeting of the British
AsaociatioD, to attempt the solution of one of the
sanitaiy problems of the day by employing elec-
tricity. Experiment showed that the suggestion
was feasible, but the question of cost was not so
easily settled. Possibly it is due to the cost that we
have heaxd little or nothing of the method since.
Quite recently, at the meeting of Municipal and
County Engineers at Nottingham, one gentleman
during the discussion of papers expressed wonder
that factories should be allowed to empty their waste
products into the sewers without any attempt at
purification. He thoaght that at any rate these
products should be partially purified before having
to be dealt with wholly at the ratepayers' expense.
It seems to as that this wonderment is quite
natural, and it really is inconceivable that factories
should be allowed to get rid of their waste products
at the pnblic expense. If a steam engine is used, the
local authorities make a charge for carting away the
ashes, but no such charge is made for taking away
and purifying the water, say, &om a dye works. The
getting rid of the ash refuse is rightly considered a
charge upon the manufacturer, bat the contamina-
tion in the liquid refuse is not looked upon as being
charf^eable to the manufacturer for purification, but
is a charge saddled upon the rates. This refuse —
which, as we say, in very many instances passes
direct into the sewers, as indeed we believe it does at
Nottingham — ^is taken perhaps miles away to the
sewage farm, treated, and the effluent from
the farm is expected to be practically pure
water, free from all contamination. We may
roughly assume that, during its passage from the
sewage carriers to the effluent, the water has
undergone a process of filtration through the soil
into the drains, and another process of oxidation.
We have long since pointed out that Webster's pro-
cess of purification is but a hurrying of Nature by
artificial means. He puts electrodes in his liquid
sewage, generates large quantities of oxygen, and so
brings the oxidisable matter into contact with free
nascent oxygen in a very short space of time, whereas
Nature might take days, or even weeks, in the process.
The operation is none the worse for being hurried, and
the result is exceedingly satisfactory. Now, cannot
the Webster process be applied to the waste liquid
products of factories before these waste products are
allowed to enter the sewers? If so, instead of
having to deal with contaminated liquid at the
expense of the ratepayers, no doubt it would be
possible to pass the purified liquid through the
surface drains, and let it run direct to the
waterways without further treatment. This would
considerably assist the draini^e system of towns,
and the cost of sewage treatment. The general
rate would still provide the ch aim els through
which the waste liquids would pass, but these would
not have to be submitted to chemical or sewage farm
treatment. The only objection to any scheme of the
kind is that manufacturers who hitherto have had no
charge for purification of waste would be subjected to
such a charge. Naturally, they would prefer to
f ^E B5LIlCTlliCAL ENGINEER, MAY 13, 1892.
469
continue in the old ways, which cost them nothing,
rather than to fall in with a system that put
extra, though perfectly just, charges upon their
shoulders. The question, however, is one that
affects the whole of the community of ratepayers,
and as the incidence of rating is becoming
more and more keenly felt, depend upon it
there will arise a general demand that those who
make the contamination should pay for the purifica-
tion. That the efficacy of a continuous current of
electricity would under most circumstances be
perfectly satisfactory can hardly be denied, and here,
again, is another direction where, sooner or later,
central stations will be required to supply a
demand. Gradually, but surely, ways will be
opened for the machinery to be kept working at
full loads, but, unfortunately, many of those engaged
in the industry are so enamoured of the thing
that is — that is, the supply of current for Ught —
that they ignore all other considerations. Perhaps,
however, it is as well it is so. They have to sell
what they make, ajid will make the apparatus neces-
sary to supply any demand. So we trust to the
gradual enlightenment of municipal engineers, rather
than to the soft-spoken words charmingly uttered of
the would-be installer of a central station. The
municipal engineer has to look forward to the
demand of to-morrow as well as to that of to-day,
and he is gradually becoming familiar with facts
that will enable him to make provision for the
future. He is wise.
ELECTRIC AND CABLE RAILWAYS.
The success — and by this we mean the commercial
success — of the South London Electric Eailway being
fairly assured, it was but natural that engineers
and capitalists should look around for new fields of
work and investment. We say the commercial suc-
cess of the South London lind is fairly assured ; from
our point of view it will not be absolutely assured
till the receipts average a thousand pounds a week,
but an examination of the weekly returns as given
in our columns will show the receipts to be gradually
and continuously creeping upwards towards this
amount. If, then, a line which was costly, which
was to a large extent experimental, which has no
feeders, and which can hardly be said to run through
the best pajring districts, has reached so favourable
a position within a couple of years of its opening, it
maybe expected that other similar lines more favour-
ably situated will reach the pajring point in a shorter
time. Thus, various lines were projected, and to
consider these a Joint Committee of Lords and
Commons is sitting. It will be quite out of place to
consider the evidence before their report is issued,
but we can hardly do wrong in calling attention to
the action of the Loudon County Council. The
Parliamentary Committee of the Council has formu-
lated certain resolutions on the subject, which the
Council has practically adopted. These resolutions
will probably be pressed upon the Joint Committee,
and thus may be said to be sub judice. It is not
with these, then, we deal, but with a definition that
these electric railways are merely underground
tramways, and having thus defined the works.
it is contended that they should come under
the jurisdiction of the County Council just like
other tramways. But is the definition correct?
One of the broad distinctions between a tramway
and a railway, in this country at any rate, is that
a tram stops and starts whenever and wherever
a passenger desires to get on or off, whereas a
railway stops at and starts from fixed points only.
There are many men among us disposed to look
even upon the South London line as merely a
miniature of what is to be. They expect in the
near future the ordinary locomotive to make way
for the electric motor, and that steam will be as
quickly superseded by electricity as coaches were by
trains. If their expectations come to pass, the
County Council will have to deal with railways and
not tramways. They are going for compulsory pur-
chase because of the definition '' underground tram-
ways,*' forgetting or ignoring that these tramways
will, if the above views are correct, develop into
more substantial works. Why should the County
Council monopolise tramways, and not cabs,
'buses, and bicycles? Surely one method of
locomotion is not more important than another,
and we fail to see any reason that can
be put forward for compulsory purchase of
tramways that is not as conclusive for the com-
pulsory purchase of 'buses. We apprehend that if
the existing electric railway should prove an absolute
commercial success, and if the proposed railways are
constructed and prove successful, extensions will
undoubtedly take place, and circular systems joining
all points of the compass will be developed, and
approximate more and more to the ordinary railroad.
Electricity and steam traction may exist side by
side, yet we may be allowed to doubt this for under-
ground work. The Metropolitan and Extension
Railways may ere long elect to try electricity, and,
if so, will these be dubbed underground tramwajrs,
and come within the powers the County Council
wish to acquire for compulsory purchase ?
CORRESPONDENCE.
" One man's word is no man's word,
Justice needs that both be heard."
THE PROPOSED BOARD OF TRADE UNIT.
Sir, — The Board of Trade had kindly wished to adopt
the name " kelvin '' for the ** Board of Trade unit," and had
taken the necessary preliminary steps for introducing it into
the provisional order for this year. But I have pointed out
some reasons why this should not be done ; and I am per-
mitted to say that the provisional order will not introduce
any new name.
It seems to me that the difficulty which has been felt in
the cumbrousness of the name " Board of Trade unit " will
be obviated wholly and in the most simple manner by using
" supply unit " to denote the particular unit defined by the
Board of Trade for the reckoning of electric supply. Thus,
supply meters, by whomsoever invented, will give their
readings in supply units. Ordinary householders, who
know nothing of ergs, of meg-ergs, of joules (though know-
ing the name and something of the work of Joule), of watt-
hours (though all know James Watt), will naturally use the
simple word " unit " in checking and paying their electric
lighting accounts. In scientific statements the double
word "supply unit,'' with only four more letters than
I* kelvin,'* will perfectly distinguish the particular unit
intended from all others. — Yours, etc., Kelvin.
6, Gad ogan- place, S.W., May 6.
470
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 13. 1892.
THE CHICAGO EXHIBITION.
Prof. Elisba dray, who is now oa this side of the
Atlantic, uks ub to give publicity to the foUoiring relating
to ihiB exhibition :
Preliminary Address of the Eledrical CommiUte.
" It IB eminently' fitting that at suitable times and on
suitable occasions men in all departments of science and
induBtryshould come together for interchange of thought, and
for the dtacassion of subjects that have to do with the great
actirities of life — practical and intellectual. What mora
fitUng time to hold a series of congreaaes than during the
Eeat World's Columbian Exposition, at Chicago, in 1S93 T
pursuance of this object the World's Congress Auziliarr
of the World's Columbian Exposition has been organiaea,
under the support of the Exposition Corporation, and has
been recognised and approved by the Government of the
United States. Under this organisation committees have
been appointed to organise a series of congresses. Among
others, a general committee, consisting of a local committee
and an advisory council, selected from men eminent in the
science both in this and in foreign countries, has been
appointed by the World's Congress authorities to organise
a World's Electrical Congress, to be held at Chicago some-
time during the summer of 1893. The movement is, as
yet, in a formative stage, and much thsugbt must be
given to it before a detailed programme can he formulated.
It is the intention of the General Committee to so organise
the congress that the greatest good to the science and to
all interested in electrical progress may be attained. It is
desirable that the work of the congress should be dvided
into sections, the number of which will be determined
after consultation with the advisory council. The first
and most important section should give its time and thought
to the more purely scientific phases of the subject, such as
the revision of the existing electrical units, and the addi-
tion of such others as the state of the science may require
Other sections should be devoted to the mure practical
questions of applied electricity. In addition to the
meetings of the various sections, there will be general
meetings, where all will come together to listen to papers
from men eminent in the science from all parts of the
world. An audience-room will he furnished, where sucb
general meetings of the congress will be held, in connec-
tion with which will be smaller rooms, suitable for the
meetings of the various sections. In order that their con-
clusions may have the authority both of scientific ability
and of ofGcial sanction, the members of the first, or scientific
section, should be appointed by the respective Governments
from which tbey come. The delegates having this very
important work in charge should represent the beat talent
from all parts of the world, or from such countries as, by
reason ot achievements In the domain of electricity, are
entitled to a voice. We invite the hearty co-operation of all
persons iuterested in electrical progress, not only by any
suggestions they may have to make, but also by their
firesence at their congress in 1893. Already there is a
ively interest felt in the matter, in this and other
countries, for the idea of holding an Electrical Congress, at
the time of the World's Fair, is not a new one either to
European electricians or to the profession in this country.
Several associations of electricians have suggested it ; for
three years past the American Institute of Electrical
Engineers has had an active committee on this subject ;
and at the Electrical Congresses of Paris, 1689, and Frank-
fort, 1891, its delegates extended a formal invitation to their
European associates to come to America in 1893. Since those
invitations were extended, the present authorities have been
appointed by the World's Congress Auxiliary of the World's
Oi^umbian Exposition. When these authorities presented
Uie matter officially to the institute, they immediately saw
the fitness of having the congress held under the auspices
of the World's Fair, and by a formal and unanimous vote
of its Council and Special Congress Committee, it has
pledged itMlf to give all possible support to the agencies
now entrusted with the responsibility of making a success
of the proposed Electrical Congress, at Chicago, in 1893, It
is the hope and expectation of the Committee on the Elec-
trical Cot^nreia Uiat other electrical associations at home
and abroad will give us the same hearty co-operation. The
time of meeting will be moet auspicious, as the representa-
tives of the world's best thought and best work will be
centred here, and the congress will meet under the shadow
of the greatest palace of electricity the world will ever
have seen. Other announcements will follow this one,
from time to time, as the work of organisation goes on.
A partial list of the advisory council of this committee
is appended. All communications in the way of suggeetioa
or otherwise should be addressed to the chairman."
EXPERIHENTS WITH ALTERNATE CURRENTS OF
HIGH POTENTIAL AND HIGH FREQUENCY.*
BY NIKOLA TE8LA.
(Continued from pagt 440. )
& most curiouH feature of alt«rnaM currents of high frequencies
d potentials is that tbey enable an to perform manjr experimeat«
by the use of one wire oaly. In many respects this feature is of
great interest. Id b type of alternate- current motor iuvent«d by
me some years ago, I produced rotation by inducing, by mesne of
a single altematinE current paeaed through a motor circait, in
••■" mftBB or other oirpuits of the motor, secondary currents, which,
itly with the primary or inducing current, created a morine
^eld of force. A simple but crude form of such a motor is obtained
by winding upon an iron core a primary, and close to it a
secondary coil, joining the ends of tlie latter and nlacing a freely
movable metal disc within tho influence of the field pnxluced by
both. The iron core is employed for obvioi
essential to the operation. To improve t
is made to encircle the armature. Again to improve, the secondary
coil is made to overlap partly the primary, so that it cannot free
itself from a strong inductive action of the latter, repel it its Udbb
as it may. Once more to improve, tlie proper difference of phase
is obtained between the primary and secondary currents by a con-
denser, self-induction, reeietanoe, or equivalent windings. I bad
discovered, however, that rotation is produced by means of k
sinifle coil and core ; my explanation of the phenomenon, and
ing thought in trying the experiment, being that there most
whicii came later to my hand, I found the idea of the time lag
advocated. Whether there is a true time lag, or whetber the
retardation is due to eddy-currente circulating in minuto paths,
must remain an open question ; but the fact is that a coil wound
upon an iron core and traversed by an alternating current creates
a moving field of force, capable of setting an armature in rotation.
It LB of some interest, in conjunction with the historical Arago
experiment, to mention that in lag, or phase, motors I hatv
produced rotation in opposite du'ection to the moving field, which
meana that in tbat experiment the magnet may not rotate, or may
even rotate in opposite direction to the moving disc. Here, then,
is B motor (schematically illustrated in Fig, 17), comprislDg a coll
and iron core, and a freely movable copper disc in proximity to the
latter. To demonstrate a novel and intersBting feature, I have, for
a reason which I will explain, selected this type of motor. When
the ends of the coil are connected to the terminals ot an altor-
nator, the disc is set in rotation. But it is not this experiment,
now well known, which I desire to perform. What t wish to
* Lecture delivered before the Institution of Electrical
Engineers at the Royal Institution, on Wednesday eveniDg,
February 3, 1892. From the Journal of the Insutntion of
Electrical EoglnserB.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 13, 1892.
471
show you is that this motor rotates itith one single connection
between it and the generator; thac is to say, one terminal of
the motor is connected to one terminal of the generator— in this
case the secondary of a high-tension induction coil — the other
terminals of motor and generator being insulated in space. To
produce rotation it is generally (but not absolutely) necessary
to connect the free end of the motor coil to an insulated body of
some size. The experimenter's body is more than sufficing. If
he touches the free terminal with an object held in the h^d, a
current passes through the coil and the copper disc is set in rota-
tion. If an exhaustMl tube is put in series with the coil, the tube
lights brilliantly, showing the passage of a strong current.
Instead of the experimenter's body, a small metal sheet suspended
on a cord may be used with the same result. In this case the
plate acts as a condenser in series with the coiL It counteracts
the self-induction of the latter and allows a strong current to pass.
In^ such a combination, the greater the self • induction of the
coil the smaller need be the plate, and this means that a lower
frequency, or eventually a lower potential, is required to
operate the motor. A single coil wound upon a core has a high
self-induction ; for this reason principally, this type of motor was
chosen to perform the experiment. Were a secondary closed coil
wound u[>on the core, it would tend to diminish the self-induction,
and then it would be necessary to employ a much higher frequency
and potential. Neither would be advisable, for a higher potential
would endanger the insulation of the small primary coil, and a
higher freauency would result in a materially diminished toraue.
It should be remarked than when such a motor with a closed
secondary is used, it is not at all easy to obtain rotation with ex-
cessive frequencies, as the secondary cuts ofif almost completely
the lines of the primary — and this, oi course, the more the nigher
the frequency — and allows the passage of but a minute current.
In such a case, unless the secondary is closed through a condenser,
it is almost essential, in order to produce rotation, to make the
primary and secondary coils overlap each other more or less. But
there is an additional feature of interest about this motor. It is,
namely, not necessary to have even a sinele connection between
the motor and generator, except, perhaps, tnrougfa the ground ; for
not only is an insulated plate caj)able (^giving off energy into space,
but it is likewise capable of deriving it horn an alternating electro-
static field, though in the latter case the available energy is much
smaller. In this instance one of the motor terminals is connected
to the insulated plate or body located wiUiin the alternating
electrostatic field, and the other terminal preferably to the ground.
It is (^uite possible, however, that such '* no-wire ** motors, as
they might be called, could be operated by conduction through
the rarefied air at considerable distances. Alternate currents,
especially of hieh frequencies, pass with astonishing freedom
through even slightly rarefied gases. The upper strata of the air
are rarefied. To reach a nnmlmr of miles out into space requires
the overooming of difficulties of a merely mechanical nature.
There is no doubt that with the enormous potentials obtainable by
the use of high frequencies and oil insulation luminous discharges
might be paraed through many miles of rarefied air, and that, oy
thns directing the energy of many hundreds or thousands of horse-
power, motors or lamps might be operated at oonsiderable distances
from stationary sources. But sucn schemes are mentioned merely
as possibilities. We shall have no need to transmit power in this
way. We shall have ne need to transmit power at all. Ere many
generations pass, our machinery will be driven by a power obtain-
able at any point of the universe.
(To be ca)Uinutd,)
THE BRISTOL TENDERS.
We understand the following tenders were received for
the Bristol work. It will be remembered that tenders
were asked for (1) Supply, delivery, and erection of steam
alternatois and steam dynamos For this part of the con-
tract the following firms tender :
Ferranti (alternators only) £12,687 0 0
Siemens Bros, (accepted) 14.011 0 0
Clark-Muirhoad 14,053 0 0
Woodhonse and Rawson 14,327 0 0
Johnson and Phillips 14,357 0 0
Crompton and Co 15.141 0 0
Mather and Piatt 15,434 0 0
Paterson and Cooper 15 826 0 0
Blakey-Emmott 15,954 0 0
Electric Construction Company 16,175 0 0
Brush Company 19,495 0 0
Goolden and Co 20,087 0 0
India Rubber Company (con tinnouH only) ... 21,090 0 0
2. Supply, delivery, and erection of boilers and accessories.
Tucker Bros, (accepted) 7.300 0 0
R. Taylor and Sons 7,604 0 0
Yatesand Thorn 7,665 0 0
Oldham Boiler Works 8,060 0 0
Woodhouse and Rawson 8,063 10 0
Fraserand Eraser 8,614 0 0
NewallandCo 8,999 9 6
J. Thompson 9,600 0 0
Hawksley, Wild, and Co 9,723 0 0
£;. Finch and Co 10,500 0 0
NOTES ON THE LIGHT OF THE ELECTRIC
ARC*
BY ALEXANDER PEIIIAM TKOTrEIl, B.A., MEMBER.
{Concluded Jrom jxiije 4J7.)
By permission of Mr. Inglis, secretary to the Trinity Housa, the
author was allowed to examine the working of the St. Catherine's
Point Lighthouse at the beginning of the present month, and to
have the machinery run during the dajrtime. The magneto
machines and lamps are the same that were used at the South
Foreland in 1884 and 1886. Alternating currents from 180 to
300 amperes are used ; the volts at the lamp are only about 35 to
38. Sir James Douglass's fluted carbons, of 50 mm and 60 mm.
diameter, are used, the smaller size being employed during clear
weather. Thev have a graphite core. The conditions are
altogether difierent from the continuous-current arc which
has been described. It was found during the South Foreland
experiments that a short arc gives more light than a long
one. It must be remembered that the horizontal li^ht is
the most useful, although in a large lantern a conPiderable
\
Fig. 8.
angle is utilised by the lenses. A large alternate-eurrent arc is
very unsteady, the flame burns away the carbon in a very irregular
manner, and when round carbons were used a hollow crater was
formed at the end of each. The walls of the crater would give
way, and cause great variation in the light. By the use of
fluted carbons little, if any, hollowing takes place, and the
light is more uniformly emitted. It seems probable that since
each carbon is only at a high state of incandescence during
half a period, a short arc gives more light because the carbons
keep each other warm. The same amount of radiant energy
mav be given off with a long arc and a short one, but when the
chilling of the negative is reduced a greater proportion of the
radiation will be in the form of light. With a long alternating
arc the flame wanders round, and is blown violently sideways, and
the crater therefore tends to be shifted to one side of the carbon.
The distance between the carbon is only ^in, tu ^in., and as they
are bv no means flat it is the exception that any interval can be
seen oetween them.
FlCS. 9 AND 10.
The author understood that an optical apparatus was provided
for projecting the image of the arc on the side of the lantern, for
the purpoee of keeping the carbon points in the focal plane of the
lensee. He found no auch instrument was in use at St.
Catherine's Point, but a very satisfactory image was thrown by
the object-glass of a telescope. The distances were arranged so
that the image was full size. The shape changed so quickly that
* Paper read before the Institution of Eleotrioal Engineers,
472
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAT 13. 1892.
It wu impoitible to dr»w the image with pwat aconrMy, and
attention waa paid only to the ontline of the OMbons and of tho
crater. The outUnw in Fig. 8 are reproduced from a leriea of
tracingB made at interTala of half a minute. Fig- 9 ia ao inte-
rerting set, ehowinn the gradual development ana disappearauce
of anUTeeular int«rloolun(r of the two carbona. This does not
appear to Dave anj connection with the flutinBB of the carbooB,
and the author has noticed it on several oooaaions, both at the
lightboDH at the recent Naval Eihibltion and at St. Catheriue'B
Point. A glance at these tracings shows that only a very small
portion of the true light-givinfi surface is visible, owin({ to the <
ahortnesa of the aro. Fig. 10 ie a pair of tracings showing tho
moat regular and the moat irregular form of crater.
The areas of the crater on the tracings were measured by a !
(danimster, the tracing point being taken 10 times round. The I
mean area of Fig, S is 0'2D87 square inch, and the mean of Fig. 9
is 0'14S square inch. The interlocking form of crater appears,
. therefore, to give about 30 per cent. le«a light. The cnndle-power
for 240 ampere*, according to the measurements made at the South .
Foreland in 1SS4 and 18S5, is about 16,000 c.p., giving about |
,000 candles per square inch if
. a crater. The area of the yello
the carbons was very difficult to (
greater in proportion to the true crater tha
current lamp taking 10 to 20 amperes. Taking these parts as
exposing about four times the area of the crater, and givmg one-
eightb of tbe light per square inch, the crat«r alone may bo taken
as given two-thirds of the whole, or about 50,000 candles to the
square inch. This agrees fairly well with the result ^reody given
for the measDrementa at Finsbury.
"" — J found during the South Foreland experiment that
t was very much
tion. ExparimsDt* hav« been made with a oarbon rod enrrouDded
by a carbon cube, arranged pointing downward*, and the arc haa
been made to travel round by mametio rotation. Tlie rod slKnild
be positive, as the end anrlaM of the tnbe would be too large to
keep inoandeacent nnteee with a very large current. The Jamin
candle, a roodifioation of the JablochkofF, and the Rajdrsff and
Hedges lamps, are eiamples of efforts in this direction.
Several attempts have been made to improve the aro by adding
volatile substances, or by inbroducin^ gae through a hallow carbon.
The most sncoessful of these appears to have bMn the Saundersoa
method of using hydrocarbon by means of a wiok, but nothing
has been beard of this for some time. The only good e&ot that
can be expected is the production of a lonr arc which will reduce
the shadow of the lower carbon ; and it is likely that the tempera-
ture of the crat«r will be reduced by the presence of any subatanoe
leas volatile than the best carbon.
With a scientific but misguided retard for truth, the candle-
power of arc lamps has been reduced toit« "mean spherical" value
oy many authorities. An easy way to arrive at this is to cut out a
piece of card to the shape of a oandle-powerdiagram, such as Figs.
1, 2, or 3. By balancing bhison apencil, on a line parallel with the
perpendicular axis, tbe distance of the oenbre of gravity from the
axis may be found. The area may lie measured with a planimeter,
or by comparing the weight of the card with thatof the rectangle
~ '' of which it was cut, or by ti-eating the curve as being or—
posed of half an ellipse and pavtof aparobola.* Then, meuormg the
'" ' ' ■ ' ■' axis, and multiplying
of tbe ligure ot revo-
lengtb
cylindrical carbons t>ecame red. hot throughout th^ whole
When 300 amperes were pasemg. The flu' '
over, have a sectional area equal
> passing. The fluted oarbonii,
sectional area equal to that of a
cylinder about 46 mm. diameter — ttiat is, 2^ square inches ; but
uie cooling surface is about SO per cent, greater. larger carbons
would probably bum yet more irregularly, and yet it seems very
desirable to increase uie tight during foggy weather. If the endii
of the carbons could be maintained conical, all the light-giving
Burfooe would be usefully employed. A carbon which is more and
more refractory towards the centre suggests jtselt ; but even at
present the eonsuoiption is from 1^ to 2i inches per hour, and
modification can only be made in the direction of less refractory
material. The Same might be mode to spin round the carbona
under the influence of a magnetic field ; but tbe simplest plan
seems to be the revolution, or gyration, of the carbons about a
common axis, their centres being slightly displaced. In order to
obviate sliding contacts, a gyratAiy motion would be ihe best.
The power of the St. Catherine's Point lighthouse has been called
fi,000,000 to 7,000,000 o.p. This would require an area of crater
of about one square foot.
The following measurements of red and green light from
different sources liave been made by Prof. L. Weber, of Breslau,
taking Incandescent platinum ss unity. Taking the VioUe plati-
num unit at IS'S standard candloe, the author hoe converted them
into caodlee per square inch and candles per square centimetre,
and baa added six other sets, with white light only, from his own
observations.
Platinum (Violle standard)
Sun's disc
Sky, near sun
Albo-carbon on edge
White paper, honxontal, i
IXMea to summer sky, noon
WhiM paper, sun 60 d^.
high, paper facing sun ...
Albo-carbon flat
Argand
Black velvet, summer sky,
White paper, reading without
straining
Sperm candle
Moon, 35d^. above horizon.
„ high
Batawing [whole flame)
Methven standard
Crater of electric arc
C.P. persq. in. C.P, persq.
The foregoing considerations abaut continuous -':urrent arcs
point to the value of a long arc, a small, and if possible a pointed,
negative carbon ; but these must without hesitation be sacrificed
to perfect steadiness. For outdoor work the uniformity of distri-
bution is not moch affected by the shadow of the lower carbon.
Indeed, it may perhaps be advantageous, for there is a fair amoont
of stray light immediately beneath an arc lamp, and if the lower
carbon could he dispensed with there would be an overpowering
illumination, which would make street lighting much more
irregular than at present unless very high pests were usei. Hut
for railway stations, and for such places as the British Museum
reading-room, aone improvements might be made in this direc-
dislance of the centre of gravity from the a
this by 2 r times the area, the solid contents
lution of the curve about its axis are obtained.
spherical candle-power of the arc is equal to the radius of a apbeie
having the same solid contents. As so little light is emitted above
the horizontal, it would seem quite ss usefnlto take the mean
hemispherical candle-power. But we not only learn nothing freah,
but are likely to be misled, for a light giving the same mean
spherical candle-power would not be nearly so useful as an arc.
The mean spherical candle'power has been found by M. Rousseau
by plotting to rectangular co-ordinates. t But tbe method Is not
much easier, and it seems better to retain tbe polar curve, which
has a geometrical meaning.
Since there is little or no difference in the light-giving properties
of arc tamp carbons, the various qualities diwring nudnly in
homogeneity and rate of burning, and since there must be n
definite relation between the watts expended and the area of the
crater, or the candle-power, it seems preferable to denominate tha
size of arc lamps by the number of watts expended. There is no
reason why the maximum candle-power at the best aiiKle should
be given, if the candle-power he mentioned at alfj but the
carbons should be very carefully centred, and the test should bn
made either with several photomoters simultaneouely, or with a
lamp revolving like a meat-jack. The nominal 2,000 c.p. which
10-ampere arc lamps are sometimes supposed to give is a perfectlv
unjustiflable convention, and has been very proi>erty characterised
as " a flne old crusted He."
It might be imagined that, since an ordinary opal globe sur-
rounding an arc tamp does not appear to difier greaUy from a
uniformly luminous sphere, the candle-power at different angles
would be very much more uniform. This is not the case. Fig. II
has been derived from the measurements of the illamination on tbe
surface of the street by an arc lamp in Cornhill, an opal globe
Iraing used ; the dotted line is assumed. Fig. 12 is a pair of
similar curves, derived from measurements made in Queen Victoria-
street with arc lamps enclosed in moulded glass.
Owing to the difliculty of comparing the light from an arc
lamp with the light of a candle, on account of the difference of
colour, it bos been a common practice to make photometric
measurements with red and with ereen glasses, and elaborate
tests have been mode by Prof, Nicol and others throui;hoat
the whole range of the visible spectrum. The red and greeo
glasses allow rather more definite readings to he made ; but by a
little practice with a photometer, whicli allows very free and
rapid changes to be mode by the oscillation of a lever or s
handle, very muoh greater accuracy may be obtained than with
an instrument in which a screen or a lens has to he moved on a
slide until a balance is efleeted. But the green and red measure-
ments havine been taken, no one has yet suggested what is to be
done with them ; neither the mean, the sum, nor the product
has any physical meaning, and the two readings are generally
given side by side. For purely scientific work, where the light b
treated as radiant energy, either the whole speotrum should be
'Area of ellipse — minor axis n major axis :
bola^basex ) height,
i Eric Uerard, '■ Le^ns sur TElectriciie,"
Areaol |>arii.
, p, m.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 13, 1892.
473
measured and compared vith a standard, or the luminoue mys
should be oarefullv BepBratod trom the dark heat rays, and the I
radiation measured as a whole. Such meosarements have been
made by H. Nakano and by Louis B. Marks,' and form a very ,
valuable contribution to our knowledge of the efficiency of the arc.
It has been shown by M. A. CrovaT that the portion of the
spectrum lying near X — 582 sives ^ true mea«ure of the total
candle-power of a light. Prof E. L. Nichols ^ finds X - 600 to
be the position. For a oousiderahle range of temperature the
ratio between the inteDsity of tbin part of the spectrum is
practically identical with the ratio oC the candle-power of two
%
hte.
« of the (icreen and red meaaurementa, besidu facilitating
the work of the photometrist, is to compare, in a rough way, the
whiteness of the light under observation with a standard light.
The matiaurement« of M. de NervilleS afford some information as
to the colour of the arc lampe at the Hippodrome, the ^low lamps
at the Opera House, and the gas lighting at the Post Office at
Paris. But this information can be obtained only in the arbitrary
terms of the ratio of the red reading to that taken with the green,
when these two are equal, and the ratio is unity. This wm the
caae with the Edison lamps at the Opera House, but it telle us
nothing. A complete luminosity curve for each glass throughout
the spectrum would be required to explain these readinet ; but
even then the resultant luminosity curve could not be derived.
Some idea of the quality of the light thus measured may be
determined by compariog the ratio of the red andgreen components
of Bome standard light. Such a comparison may be made with
measurements made by M. de Nervilte on the illumination pro-
duced by bright sunlight shining on a window with white blinds.
"" " ' ' ■ " "' leter was about
of May 1, 1890.
1 the colour of
light of uniform colour he found notbiog to equal that which is
given from the crater of an arc. This is very satisfactory to
electrical eneineers. but it gives no definite information as to
the real quality or degree of whiteness of the light. The popular
idea, and one which is very firmly fixed, is that arc lamps give a
bluish light, sometimee rather violet ; that it shows up certain
colours in a sickly or unnatural manner ; and there is a wide-
spread belief that it not only acts injuriously on the complexion,
but pierces cosmetic embellishments. These ideas are of so serious
a nature thai the author ventures to discuss the quality of the
liffht of the electric arc ; since, although it is not a strictly
e&otrica! matter, it has a rather important aspect, in so far as it
is a more or less unpopular feature of electric lightinK.
The only standard of pure white light which we nave is that
of the diffused light of a summer day. Artists are familiar with
the fact that direct suniight is yellowish, II even on the clearest
days ; and that a blue sky, on the other hand, gives distinctly
blue light ; and that both of these must be avoided, or a pictuw
painted under such lights will appear too cold or too warm when
hung in a diffused l^ht. Captain Ahney has found that at
dilfemnt seasons of the year and at diffeicnl times of the day very
considerable changes occur in the colour of sunlight, owinj; to the
aheorption of bluish light by the atmosphere. It does not, how-
ever, appear impracticable to the author to fix on a fairly typicil
degree of whiteness, such as that of chalk, whiting, or alumina
exposed to diffused light in summer-time. A luminosity curve of
the spectrum of such light would be a standard, Compared with
such a white, or, indeed, by a very rough comparison with
ordinary daylight in clear weather, the arc gives a distinctly pale
primrose light, rather warmer than straw-yellow, and, to the
author's eye, distinctly yellouiah, in spite of the pale violet flame
of the arc, which with inferior carbons occasionally Bares up at
itreeular intervals. It is no use telling an unscientific person that
the light is not blue, but pale yellow. He will answer, "It
appears to me to be blue or violet, and therefore t« me and to 96
people out af a 100 it is blue or violet.
Three reasons can be brought forward to explain this optical
illusion. After dusk we are accustomed to the use of BtroDgly
yellow and even orange -colon red light of gas, lamps, candles, or
glow lamps, and our own idea ol whiteness is lowered. The
whitest thing that we can see is a sheet of white paper, which
is, of course, no whiter than the yellow light of the lamps. We
imagine that it is white, and thus a false standard of white
is obtained. When a really whiter, though not perfectly white,
light is introduced, it naturally seems U) be bluish compared with
the false standard of white. Whether our idea of white really
becomes altered is a psychological question which it would he
out of place to discuss in the present paper. Secondly, after
dusk the blue-seeing nervous elements of the eye (on the
Young-Helmholtz theory) are allowed to rest, while most of the
work falls upon the red and green-seeing elements. These latter
become wearied, while the former are in a more highly receptive
a tolerable proportion of blue lit, . ^ -r,-
be mora blue than whit«. The third suggestion is baaed upon a
result of Captain Abney's researches, which show that for the
most feeble illuminations no colour can be distinguiebed, and that
the first colour which can be discovered is blue. He finds, and is
supported in this by Lord Rayleigh, that the faintest light
appean of a greyish-green colour ; and Captain Abney attributes
the apparent colour of moonlight to this cause. The author does
not attach much importance to the application of this phenome —
as an explanation of the oolour of the light of aros, but i
worthy of record in this connection. When the eye pa
Sradually from daylight into electric tight without seeing
istin^ly yellow light, ihe sensation of bliicnoos is rarely, if ei
observed.
FiQS. 13, 14,
It would be easy to humour this optical illusion, as is done at
the British Museum reading-room, by the use of screens of
yellowish glass ; but a much more important consideration is the
value of the arc light for Uie proper discrimination of colours ;
and though it is found in dye works that most oolours can be
matched with a good 15 or 00 ampere are, there appears to be no
reason why a perlBct reproduction of astAndard daylight quality
of whiteness should not be obtained—at all events, with arc lamps
if not with glow lamps. The public would not be ready to believe
it : they would call such a light bright blue, but that does not
matter much. As the idea did not occur to the author until
the autumn of last year, he has been unable to make experiments
with summer daylight ; bub as it would be a misfortune If tt
were patented, he takes the present opportunity of describing the
principle.
The full line in Fig, 13 is the luminosity curve for the light of
the positive pole of an arc as determined by Captain Abney, The
horizontal scale is the length of the spectrum, and the letters refer
to the well-known line. The ordinatee are a measure of the
brightness of each part of the spectrum. The dotted line is the
luminosity curve for sunlight in May, from the same authority.
Fig. 14 shows the difference between these two curves. The
portions which lie below the horizontal line represent the excess
of orange and greenish rays in the arc, and the portion which lies
abovo Uie line represents the deficiency in blue rays. Such a
deficiency has the same effect on the eye as an exceos of yellow,
and the whole effect is distinctly more yellow than sunlight. The
light of a glow lamp at ordinary incandescence is almost exactly
the same as that of gas. Fig, 15 gives the luminosity curves of
arc and gas ; and Fig. 16 shows the difference which, when the
curve of ^aali^ht is reduced so as to fall wholly within the arc
curve, as m Fig. Ifl, consists of a deficiency which inereasea rapidly
towards the blue.
* American Institute of Electrical Engineers, May 31, 1H60.
-t Electrical Congress, Paris, 1889.
t American Institute of Electrical Engineers, 1890.
g Socle te Internationale da» Electricians.
II Dr. W, J. Russell and Captain Abney, on the other hand, say :
" The light from a skv which is cloudy has very much the same
composition as sunlight itself, as we nave repeatedly proved."
"The proportion of blue rays in sunlight near mid-day in May
is very nearly the name as the standard light "("the white-hot
crater in the positive carbon pole of the electric light "}.—" Report
on the Action of Light on Water Coloun," c. a.UH, 1888, pp. 2S
and 8B.
Figs. 16, 17,
Assuming ideal daylight to be rather lei* yellow— that is,
more blue than sunlight — the dotted curves in Fig. 17 have been
drawn from Captain Abney's curves of sunlight and the light of
blue sky. One-third of tjie difference between sunlight and blue
sky has been added to the sunlight. The dotted curves are of
the same kind, hut the ordinatM have been reduced. Fig. IS
shows the di^reiioes. Compared with the strongest daylight
curve, the arc has a marked excess of orange, and a deficiency of
greenish blue. With weaker daylight there is a greater excess of
yellow ; and with the weakest light shown, since it lies almost
entirely within the arc curve, there is praotically no deficiency in
the bin*.
474
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 13, 1892.
There are two difforent waye in which this result may be
practically used to produce artificial daylight. A glass or other
medium may be tinted with stains, or dves, which will absorb the
proper amount of yellow and red light, and the lamp may be
surrounded by such a medium ; or a reflecting screen may be
painted with such a colour that this yellow light may be absorbed,
and the white light alone may be reflected. Blue glass chimneys
are used for microscope work, and are occasionally used for
reading-lamps with the view of giving a more agreeable light.
The lowest curve but one in Fig. 18 lias a small deficiency of
greenish blue. This would afiect the eye as a very faint yellowish
tinge. If the excess of yellow in the rest of the spectrum could be
corrected, a very close approximation to daylight would be
attained. About one- third ot the useful power of the light would
have to be sacrificed. With gas light or glow lamps more than
two-thirds of the light would have to be absorbea in order to
reproduce the effect of daylight.
Quite apart from considerations of colour-matching, the use of a
whibe light ought to be good for the eyes, since aU the nervous
elements would be equally excited as in normal daylight. The
author has not yet completed his experiments on coloured shades,
but has produced colour screens, which, when illuminated by lamp-
light, reflect a li^ht which cannot be distinguished from white
when compared with daylight. It does not follow that the light is
identical with daylight; but he hopes to follow up the matter
during the summer.
LONDON COUNTY COUNCIL.
The following report of the Parliamentary Committee
waspresented and adopted at the meeting of the Council
on Tuesday, with the omission of the suggestion that only
one line should be constructed between North and South
London :
Electric and Cable Railways.
A Joint Committee of Lords and Commons having been appointed
to consider the best method of dealing with electric and cable
railway schemes, we have considered the question of the evidence
to be adduced on the part of the Council before the committee.
We have had before us, in connection with the subject, reports by
the parliamentary agent and the chief engineer, and have directed
our attention to the third report of the Select (Committee of the
House of Lords, 1863, and the report of the Joint Committee of
the Houses of Lords and Commons, 1864, on metropolitan railway
communication. In our report to the Council on the 9th of
February last, especial reference is made to underground com-
munication, and suggestions are contained in that report whicli
we have adopted, and decided to include in our proposals as to
the line of evidence to be taken before the Joint Committee.
Having given the whole subject our most careful consideration,
we propose to submit to the Joint Committee the following pro-
positions as indicating the position which the Council will tiSce in
the coming enquiry : (I) That the size of the tunnels of the lines
should be sufficient to allow in the future of an interchange of
traffic with existing railway lines. (2) That, subject to the other
conditions and to any geological or other unforeseen difficulties
which ma^ be met with, underground lines should not follow the
line of existing streets, but should go from point to point, the
depth l>elow the surface being such as to avoid injury or incon-
venience to buildings in the line of the railways. (3) That the
companies should only be allowed to acquire the right of forming
the tunnels without acquiring any absolute freehold in the soil,
paying compensation for actual damage only.
We are of opinion that the traffic capable of being accommo-
dated by a railway of the class proposed between the North and
South of London is not of so large an extent as to justify more
than one railway. It would be at present impossible to obtain the
necessary capital for the construction of more than one, as it
would be obvious that if the traffic were divided between two
lines, the expenditure on each must be unremunerative. We there-
fore think that the formation of more than one such line should
not be encouraged.
In the Central London Railway Act, 1891, valuable provisions
were inserted at the instance of the Council, which we think
should also form part of any new Acts authorising further under-
ground communication. We have given the agent the necessary
instructions to take steps for submitting the views above set out
to the consideration of the Joint Committee.
Another point to which we have directed our attention is the
question of the desirability of urging on the Joint Committee the
introduction in the Bills of clauses giving to the Council com-
pulsory powers of purchase of the undertakings. There is a
preceaent for this in the case of the tramways, ana we are strongly
of opinion that in the public interest it is desirable that such a
power should be reserved to the Council. Such undertakings are, in
fact, in the natureof underground tramways: they are purely metro-
politan, and are not railways in the sense of carrying passengers
outside the metropolis. It appears, therefore, to us that the same
principle may be adopted with them as with regard to tramways,
with tne addition of a concession that in a matter which requires
a longer time to develop than mere horse traction on the surface
of the street would require, there should be a jperiod allowed, not
of 21 years as in the case of tramways, but ot 60 years, so as to
enable those who find the capital in the first instance time to
ibtain remuneration for that capital.
We have accordingly framed for the consideration of the Joint
Committee a clause on the model of section 43 of the Tramwavs
Act, 1870, with the exception that a period of 60 haa been sub-
stituted for 21 years. W^e propose that u the Council by resolution
passed at a special meeting so decide, it may within six months
after the expiration of a period of 60 years from the passing of an
Act authorising such a scheme, and within six months after the
expiration of everv subsequent period of seven years by notice in
writing require the company to sell, and thereupon the company
shall sell to the Council the undertaking, the terms of payment
being the then value (exclusive of any allowance for past or future
profits of the undertaking or any compensation for compulsoiy sale
or other consideration whatsoever) of the riulway, and all lands,
buildings, works, materials, and plant of the company, suitable
to and used for the purposes of their undertaking, such value
to be in case of difference determined by an engineer or other
fit person nominated as referee by the JSoard ot Trade on the
application of either party, and the expenses of the reference to
be borne and paid as tne referee may direct. And when any such
sale has been made, all the rights, powers, and authorities of the
company in respect to the undertaking sold shall be transferred to
and vested in and may be exercised by the Council in like manner
as if such railway had been constructed by the Council under
parliamentary powers. We recommend —
(a) That the course taken by us in instructing the agent to
submit these views to the Joint Committee be approved.
{b) That the Council do approve of powers being sought to
enable the Council eventuuly to acquire electric and cable
railway undertakings, and do authorise the Parliamentary
Committee to submit a clause on the lines indicated in the
report, to the Joint Committee on the Bills.
TAUNTON.
The following is the report of Mr. O. Kapp relating to
the installation at Taunton :
To THE Sanitary Authority of Taunton.
Gentlemen, — In conformity with the instructions received from
your town clerk by letter dated April 8, 1892, I have now the
honour to report as follows :
I visited tne works of the Taunton Electric Lighting Company
on the 13th and 14th inst., with the object of making a valuation
which would guide you in arranging with the company the terms
on which you would take over the wnole undertakings as a going
concern. Since any valuation of this kind must be nukle in such a
manner as to conform with the requirements of the Local Govern-
ment Board, I had, previously to my visit to Taunt-on, an inter-
\iew with an official of the Local Government Board, and ascer-
tained that in making the valuation it would be necessary to take
into account not merely the market value of the different parte of
the works, and the cost of erection, but also the probable life of
the plant, and its general suitability for the supply of electrical
energy.
The works comprise a central station, a complete system of
overhead mains now supplying about 30 arc lamps for street
lighting, and 40 arc lamps for private lighting, a number of glow
lamps of various candle-power equivalent to about 500 16-o.p.
lamps, and also three sets of storage batteries. The central station
stands on a piece of land, 14,570 scjuare feet in area 180ft. deep,
and running through from St. James's-street to Middle-street.
The buildings cover an area of 8,070 square feet, and enclose a
total volume of 180,000 cubic feet. They comprise a boiler-room,
38ft. wide by 70ft. average length, an engine-room, 50ft. wide by
70ft. average length, small store-rooms, and lavatory. The chimney'
is circular and I'^^ft. high by 4ft. internal diameter at top. The
buildings and chimney are large enough to accommodat-e boilem
and electric light machinery for 500 i.h.p. or 600 i.h.p., and as the
total recjuirements of Taunton for electric lighting will for yearn
to come not exceed from 300 i.h.p. to 350 i.h.p., I consider the
buildings and amount of land unnecessarily large. The great
width of the engine-room is also objectionable, because it would
make the addition of an overhead traveller (which is a necesear>'
part of a properly-eciuipped station) a costly affair.
The Genkratin(i Plant Comprises toe PoLLO\nNu :
Two Babcock- Wilcox boilers, each of 1,000 square feet heating
surface, and capable of evaporating from 3,0001b. to 3,5001b. of
water per hour, the steam pressure being 1401b.
Two Worthington feed pumps, with steam and feed connections.
One exhaust steam feed heater.
Two larcre cast-iron water-tanks and one blow-off tank.
One oil niter.
Two Ruston-Proctor horizontal compound engines, with automatic
expansion gear, cylinders lOin. and 17in. by 18in. stroke. These
engines will indicate about 90 h. p. each.
Two Willans central valve engines, HH pattern, rated at 140 i.h.p.,
but working at present much below tnis power.
One countershaft, 5in. diameter and about 30ft. long, with five
bearings on massive pedestals, two cast-iron main puUejrs with
claw clutches, by which the countershaft is belted to the
Ruston-Proctor engines, and five wrought-iron pulleys with
friction clutches, from which are driven by belts :
Four Thomson-Houston arc light machines, each intended for
working 30 6*8 ampere arcs in series, and
One Elwell-Parker shunt-wound dynamo working the batter)'
circuit above mentioned.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 13, 1892.
476
There kre aiao in position and belted to the WUlana engioee :
Two ThomBOD-HouHtcn altemAtore rated at 70-kilowatt mocblnee
(2,000 voltt 35 amperes), each alteraator driTing b; belt ita own
The itation con tain i the n
'e also provided.
The exbansl pipee are oarried andergronnd, bat are only partly
accoBsible.
The aystsm of steam -piping ia very detective, and hardly safe.
There are no ieolating valrsa on tbe boilers, and the main steam
pipe ia of cast iron, and uo proviaions hare been made for expan-
sion and contraction, There is a B(«sni-wparator fixed to the main
steam-pipe, bat it la placed in such a position that it cannot drain
the whole of the main ateam-pipe. Further, there ia no ring main
affording the ateam an alternative path in case it should be necea-
■ary to affect any repairs whilst the atatioo is under steam. Tbua,
the blowing of a joint in the evening would necesaitate the
ehntting down of the station , to say nothing of tbe permanent
danger of carrying 1401b. of steam in cast-iron pining.
The belta ioining the VVillana engines to the altematorfl should
be properly fenced ; in their present condition they are a source
of danger to the attendanta, who are in the habit of stepping over
these belts whilst running.
it would also l>e advisable to place the alternators nearer to the
VVillana engines in order to reduce the length of belt centres. As
at present arranged, the Iralte are unnecessarily lone, and tbe
strain causes the bearings of the alternators to heat. The exciters
should be placed on the opposite side. The framework of the
alternators should he connected to earth.
Thb Distbibi
K F0LI«WIK
About 120 posts fitted with oil insulators for the support of
overhead mains. About 31 of these posts are also fitted with
brackets, hoods, spring contacts, and hoisting gear for tbe street
lamps, which are of the Thomson- Houston 6'S ampere M 12 type.
The posts, especially those at street comers, appear to be weak,
and the automatic spring contact for the lamps is too flimsy and
unreliable. The hoisting gear is also defective, the winch barrel
and top pulleys being too small in diameter.
Most of the posta carry three distinct circuite— namely, one (or
the street lamps, one lor the arc lamps fixed on consumers'
premises, and one for the alternating current. Some of the posts
also carry the battery current, making four distinct circuits in all.
The arc lamps (ixed on consumers' premises are Thomson-
Houston 68 ampere lamps of the D 12 type, and are worked in
series of 21 and 22 lamps respectively. The system of working,
under which the bigb-presaure circuit is looped into private
premises, is not so eale ea tbe more modem plan of working private
arc lampe from low-pressure mains. I shall have occasion to refer
bo this subject c^ain in a later part of this report.
The glow lamps are worked by transformers, which are fixed
on the consumers premises, and care has tieen taken to place tbe
transformers into such positions as to be not easily accessible.
Although in this way the danger of admitting a 2,000-i'olt current
iQto private premises has been greatly minimised, yet it is not
altogether absent, and it would have beeu much better to have
placed the transformers at sub -stations, so that, as recommended
by the Board of Trade, only the low-pressure current is admitted
into private premises.
Condi
F VVoi
Apart from the various defects pointed cut above, and which
refer rather to the design of the works than their state of preser-
vation, the whole of the plant is in good, and some even in
excellent condition. The boilers and accessories are jierfectly
serviceable, as are also the Rustonl'roctor engines. The Willanr-
engines are in fairly good condition, but should be overhauled,
and brackets should be lixed to support the spindles of tbe steani
Biop-valves. There seems also to be a alight crack in the steam-
pipe to one of these engines. The countershaft and alt the belts
are in good condition, and the alternators, with their exciters, as
well as the arc light dynamos, are in excellent condition. The
insulation of these machines, and of all the overhead mains with
arc lamps and transformers in circuit, I found remarkably good,
notwithstanding the fact that my testa were made on a rainy day.
Tbe whole of tbe plant has been well cared for.
METHon-< uF WoHKiN(;, Effkiencv, and CosscMmoN.
The supply of electrical energy from the station is at present
intermittent, tbe machinery being started in tbe afternoon and
kept going till 1 or 2o'c!ock in the morning only. Although such a
manner of working is, generally speaking, conducive to economy,
it baa not been so in the present case, I haro been able, by the
courts^ of the directors of the company, and with tbe assistance
of Mr. H. E. Hunt, the superintendent, to estimate approiimately
the number of units supplied for private and public lighting, and
the amount of coal consumed, and I find that for the delivery of
80,000 unita during the year 1891, 870 tons of coal were burned,
being at the rate of about 241b, of coal per unit delivered. Had
tbe company been working under a provisional order and been
compelled to keep the pressure on the mains for private lamps
too large. Alodern and well-designed stations giving uninterrupted
(lirect-curront sujiply at tow pressure, require from 9lh. to 151b. of
. . — J .,i>...».>.n...»...«...^ station* giving uninter-
ooal per unit : and alternating-ci
rupted supply, require from I2lb. to 241b. of coal per unit. There
are chiefly two reasons why the coal consumption in the Taunton
station ia so large. In the first place, the avert^ load on tbe alter-
nators is very small in comparison with the rated power of the
engines, and, in theseoond place, the efficiency of tbe arc lighting
Elant is low, owing to the interposition of a. heavy coanlerahait
Btween the engines and dynamos. Thisdefect cannot be remedied
with tbe existing plant, but the efficiency of the alternating plant
would be materially improved if, instead of 500 lamps, t£ree or
four times this number were connected, and the supply were still
carried on intermittently as now. Should it, however, be necea-
sary to give an uninterrupted supply, as is generally the case when
the undertakers work under a provisioDHl order, then it would
only be possible to attain a fair efficiency by the addition to the
present plant of a small engine and alternator for daylight work,
and the establishment of sub-stations with large and small trans-
formers.
CoHMiBciAL Results, Msmts, Possible Pmoftt, etc.
That statement No. I contained inlbe report of your Joint Com<
mitteegives the total working expenses during 1891 at£l, 897- '.^.Qd.,
and tbe income at £1,521. Is. 3d. The different items of expendi-
ture sre, with Che exception of those for coal, nil, and water, fair and
reasonable. The ooal bill would, in my opinion, not he reduced hy
the introduction of a mechani(»l stoker. The station has been
worked in a manner as ecoaomical as the nature of the plant per-
mitted, and Ido not think that in future it will be possible to
reduce expenses. The commercial results can therefore only be
improved oy inoreaaing the receipts. The receipts were, in round
numbers, about £1,110 from arc lighting and £410 from incan-
descent lighting, the latter being charged at an average of
Is. per candle-power per annum, whilst each private arc lump
figures in statement No. 2 at £\0 per annum. The 41 private
lamps consumed during 1891 about 17,000 unita, and tbe mcome
from them figuree in the statement at £410, which is the payment
for the rent of tbe lamp, the carbons consumed, and the current
supplied. Deducting £80 for rent of lamps and carbons, we find
that 17,000 units were supplied for £330, which U at the rate of
4'65d. per unit. Since tbe cost of producing a unit was during IHDl
about 5'7d.. it is clear that the private arc lighting was a loss to the
company. If the current for these lamps haa been charged by meter
at 8d. per unit, there would have been a small profit on the private
arc lightinK', each lamp earning about £4 per annum. In so far,
and provided the consumers will submit to the increased ohaige aa
detn'mined by the meter, the adoption of meters would increase the
income, but I do not think that the adoption of meters would in-
crease the income derivable from the incoodascent lampa. In
London the average ftaming power of an 8-c.p. lamp, with current
at Hd. per unit, is about lOe. , and of a 16-c.p. lamp it is under 20s.
There is no reason to anticipate a higher revenue per lamp in
Taunton, where the influence of heavy fogs cannot t>e so favoarable
to the interests of an electric lighting company as ia the oass in
London. It will, therefore, be hardly safe to reckon upon a higher
income per I6-c.p. lamp than 18s. per annum. In order tofuUy
utilise the present plant at the central station, a total of 1,400 or
1,500 lamps may be connected. The Ruston- Proctor engines
should also be capable of supporting an additional load of, say,
13 arc lamps for street lighting. If tbe current for the private
lamps be charged at 8d, per unit the total income would he as
follows :
From 44 public arc lampe at £22. lOs. £090
From 41 private arc lamps 560
From 1,500 10-c.p. incandescent lamps 1,360
£2,900
It would of course be necessary to put down one additional boiler
and additional transformers. It would also be necessary to make
the improvements in the steam-piping, valves, etc. , detailed above,
and to place the whole of the street mains underground. The cost
of these additions, alterations, and improvements would amount
to about £.1,500. The working expenses would be inoreased as
Lpared with those incurred duriag 1891 by the following
For coal, water, oil and petty stores £400
For repairs and renewals 70
For salaries and wages SO
£550
This would bring up the total working expenses to £2,460, leaving
a gross profit of £460.
I must here point out that this profit wilt only be obtainable if
the Btabion is worked as at preeent—ttiat ia to say, giving an inter-
mittent supply. If the supply hod to be uninterrupted, the
machinery at the station would have to be kept in motjon night
and day. This would very materially increase the coet of coal,
water, oil, repairs, and renewals, and, above all, tbe wages ; since,
instead of one shift of men, as at present, three shifts would be
required. I need hardly say that under these circumstances the
above-mentioned profit of £450 would be converted into a heavy
SysTBM or SrrPLT.
The system of supply for which the Taunton central station has
been designed is not well suited to the local conditions. Where a
district extending over several milee has to be supplied with
electrical energy, the ase of higb-pressureoltemating currents and
transformere is perfectly justified, and the working (owing to tbe
necessarily large number of lamps installed) is eoonomli^. Bub
in a small disbnot then i* no oead to use high-preaaurB alternating
476
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 13, 1892.
(«, tuid it is, moreover, aneconomicttl in working, because
the namber of lumps must neceesarily be »niii]l, and the cost of
keeping machinery continuously in motion must be large in coin-
pariBon u-jch tho paggiblo revenue. In Taunton, the central
station lica within a corapnrjitively aroall district, and the whole
of the lighting ia at present comprised within n mdioB of nbout
800 yards from tho central station. As distances up to 1,'2D0
yarda are well within the reach of the ordinary three-wire systoi
o need for the alternating -current ayabom. Taunton could very
etfioiently be lighted on the direct-current system, the generating
plant including storage batteries, so that on uninterrupted service
can be given without the necessity of working the machinery for
more than 10 hours daily.
Board of Tiude Rb(ji.'iiieme\ts.
Ify
I, you
tions OB the Board of Tmde may insert in the order with a
ensuring the public safety and convenience. There are certain
conditions fieculiar to the system of lighting adopted at TaanMn,
which would have to be specially Bjiproved of by the Board of
Trade, and as it ia neceaaarv to know beforehand whether such
approval can he obtained, f had an interview with Sir Thomas
Bloomlield, of the Board of Trade, and diBcuaeed with him the
points stated below. The dehnite decision of the Board of Trade
will be communicated to me after the return of their ecientiiic
adviser early in May, but a« this report must rench yon before, I
ehall now merely state tho iwints concerned and my own personal
Om-htad it'irer; — Afi all these are in urban street* they will all
have to be replaced by new underground wires.
Uninterrupted flappli/. — The model order provides that the
■undertaker shall "give and continue to give a supply of energy,"
ato. It is not quite clear whether this should be interpret«d as
meaning that the supply shall be uninterrupted, or merely given
day after day during stated hours. Hitherto, the L|uostion hoe
not arisen, it being tacitly aasuroed that supply compaoiee give
uninterrupted or continuous Eiipply. Even in the case that the
other interpretations were legally tenable, I do not think you
could take advantage of it, aa it would restrict the uae of the
light to certain hours, and thun make the electric light less con-
venient than gae. You would therefore be compolled to give an
uninterrupted supply, and, as I have explained above, such a
Bupply, if obtained by the use of the present plant, would entail a
heavy toss in working expenses,
Ar-: Lani/M I'l Shoju; — I have already referred to the poaaible
danger of looping highpressuro mains into private [iremises for
working arc lam|i« in series, and although the practice ia not
uncommon, and has, in England at least, not led to any accident
as far as I know, yet tho Board of Trade are at the preaent time
considering the advisability of framing regulations with a view to
public safety, or of forbidding the use of such a system of lighting
altogether. In taking over the Taunton electric lighting station
you would, of course, also take over the ritik of having to rearrange,
or completely remove, theae private arc lamps, rejilacing bhemTjy
low. pressure arcs, should the decision of the Board of Tnule be
unfavourable to thom.
PitKCIIASE.
Part of the instructions given me by your town clerk was that
I should make a valuation of the works of the Taunton Electric
Lighting Company, in order to advise you what would be a fair
and proper price to pay, in ease you should decide to take over
the whole undertaking. The price sugcesteel tor the purcbaee in
the report of your Joint Committee ia iflU.tXM), and if the design of
the station hod i>een such as to fully meet the conditions indis-
ponsable for economical and efficient working, aa well as the
reijairements of the Board of Trade, I should consider this price a
fair and reasonable one to pay for the land, buildings, machinery,
and building plant. Unfortunately, however, the design of the
station, and the whole system under which the light is at present
BuppUed, is not such a^ will allow of economical working, if tho
supply is to be continuous, such as tho consumers wouUl have a
ri^t to demand, and therefore I cannot advise you to buy up the
works as a going concern, or in any such manner as would compel
you to carry on the present system of supply,
The main reasons on which my adrice is based have been given
at length in the foregoing paragraphs of this report, and I need,
theremre, not repeat them here. There is, however, a further
reason to which I have to draw your attention — namely, the two
agreements existing between the camjiany and Measrs, Laing,
Wharton, and Down, dated respectively the IBth March, 1880, and
the 13th Uacember, 1SS6. I have carefully studied these agree-
ments, anil I find that the clauses therein contained, and especially
clauses 4, 5, 6, and 7 of the Brst agreement, would seiioualy
restrict your freedom of action, and practically prevent you from
introducing any improved machinery and methods of supply in
the future, except by permission or with the aasistance of Messrs
I^ing, Wharton, and Down. Whatever arrangement you may
come to with the Taunton Electric Lighting Company, I advise
that you do not take over these agreements, but retain full liberty
aa regards the system and method of working, and the purchase of
[ilant in the open market.
Imi'Rovkd Ei.e<?rRic LiiiiiT Siifclv,
could be designed and built on the most improved modem
principles, and on a site at the river bank, so that condensing
engines can be employed, and the cool delivered by barge. There
would be the further advantage that the present system of supply
would not be in any way interfered with, ao that there would be
no inconvenience whatever to consumers, if eventually they should
have to change from the old to the new system of supply. There
would, however, be this very serious objection, that you would
enter into competition against the existing company, and on that
account the following way is preferable :
(h) Although not buying out the existing company as a gtung
concern, you may buy so much of the plant belongiog to the
company as can profitably be employed in the reconstruction of
an improved central station and distributing system, leaving the
company free to sell the rest of its plant in the open market. The
advant(^es of this plan, are that it will not take so long as plan
(n) to get the improved station into working onler, and that it will
be financially better for the company. The disadvantages are that
your station will not be on the river, that its internal arrange-
ment will not be quite aa perfect as would be the case if the whole
of the works were designed afresh, and that there might be some
slight and partial interruption of light when changing over from
the old to the new system.
I take it that the plan (a) does not come within the instractiona
given me by your town clerk, and shall therefore confine myself
m the following to plan {h), under which you would nurchase as
much of the old plant as can be profitably employed in the im-
E roved station, paying for this plant a fair and reasonable price.
n determining what this price should be I have adopted the
following method. I hare assumed that the t«tal require-
ments of Taunton for electric lighting during the next
four or five years will not exceed 44 street arc lainiw, and
2,0ri0 le.c.p. glow lamps, or their etjuivalent in arc lamps,
and glow lamps of other candle-power for indoor lighting. I have
further assumed that eventually the total amount of lighting may
be extended by 50 per cent., and IhaveeatimatedtbecoBt of a new
central station and distributing plant, the chimney and buildings
being provided tor 3,000 16-c.p. glow lamps installed, and 66 arc
lamps in the streets, whilst the mochinen' provided at present
shall only suffice for 2,000 glow and 44 arc lamps. 1 find that the
cost of such an electric lighting works (including 7.000 squai-e feet
of land which I value at £400) will be from £15,000. to £16,000.
made up as follows ;
Land, chimney, buildings, traveller, boilers, machinery,
batteries, and all acceesory apparatus at central station... £8,300
44 street arc lamps with posts and ciiouita 2.000
Underground mains, house connections, and meters 5,300
£15,500
I have ahto estimated the cost of altering the present station, and
adding certain macfainery and apparatus, by which means the
present station can be made very nearly as efficient as the entirely
new station costing £8,200. The difference between these two
estimates is the price which you canaflbrd to pay 1^ the company for
those i^arte of the station which you can utilise, and which aro:
Land, chimney, and buildings; boilers and accessories; twe
Rua ton -Proctor engines and two bolts; one Willana engine ; tho
system of exhaust pipes ; small accessories, such as benches, vices,
clock : barrow, wiring of stations, etc.
If you utilise thia material the cost of additional machinery will
be £3,700. You can therefore alfoi'd to pay the company the
diflerence between £8,200 and £3.700, or £4,500 for the above-
mentioned material. You will notice that I have only included
one of the Willans engines, since this and the two Ruaton-Proctor
engines would cori'Ssjiond with the three 100 i.h. p. engines that
would have to be put down if you were lo build ao entirely new
station. Aa, however, the second Willana online would be
required for future extensions, and as its possession now would
tend to minimise and possibly entirely avoid the interruption of
lighting during alterations. 1 advise that you take it oi-er oIbo,
and on this account the above-mentioned purchase price would
have to bo increased by £400, making the total price for
the central station £4,900. This refers, of course, only to
the boilers, engines, and accessory plant at the station, but it
docs not refer to the dymimos, mains, lamps, and transformers, all
of which would be useless to you. As regards the posts, you could
utilise 44 of them for lampposts at the price of £.350. leaving the
company to remove the other 18 posts and dispose of them along
with the wires, dynamos, and electrical plant in any way they may
think fit. The total price you would under the suggeeled arrange-
ment have to pay to the company would therefore be £5,250, mode
up as follows :
Land, chimney, buildings £i,500
Boilers, water- tanks, feed-pumps, feed- pi pee, exhaust
heater, exhaust pipes 800
Two Ruaton- Proctor engines and two belts for some 561)
Two Wilians engines 800
44 lumpiiosta ,'. S50
Stores for engines and boilers, accessories, and tixturM '2tO
£6,2G0
The material which you would have to purcbase In the open market
in order to complete the eqnipment of the station would comprise :
One dyuamo adapted for direct driving, and fitted to one of tbft
Wilians engines ; two dynamos adapt^ for belt driving from the
Ruston -Proctor engines i one boiler of the same site and type ■•
the prei'ent boilers : storage batteries, switchboard, regulating
aiipliancos, orilaptod for low-preosuie direct -current supply on the
tiuoO' wire Byetem, (fiving an uninl^rruplcd aervice day and nightt
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 13, 1892.
477
Myesfcimate for this plant, indading^ oreetion and letting to
work, IB :
BoUer £330
Steam-pipee for three boilers and four engines 230
Dynamos... 1,400
Batteries, switchboards, and regulating appliances 1, 100
Structural alteration to building and traveller 180
Contingencies 460
£3,700
The street mains should be treble concentric cables, lead-
covered and compounded, and would be laid in about 3,800 yards
of street, partly on both sides, so that the total length of frontage
served would be 5,300 yards. This is in excess of the frontage
served at present. The current would be supplied to the mains
bv feeders at 210 volts, and to consumers' termmals at 105 volts,
the pressure being kept on continuously night and day, so that
consumers may use the energy during the day for motive or other
purposes. My estimate for the feeders and mains, including
opening and making good of streets, junctions, testing and con-
necting boxes, house services and meters, is £5,300. The arc
lamps would be worked from the junction-boxes in series of four
across the 210-volt mains ; and each group of four arc lamps
would be turned on and off by^ a switch in one of the lampposts.
My estimate for the arc lamp installation, including posts, lamps,
switches, hoisting gear, and underground mains is £2,000, of which
sum the £350 paid to the company forms the item for the cost of
lampposts.
Your total outlay for the electric lighting plant for 44 street arc
lamps and 2,000 16-c.p. glow lamps installed, or equivalent arc
lamps and glow lamps of other candle-power (of which not more
more than 1,400 will ever be required to burn at the pamo time),
is, therefore, as follows :
Price to be paid to present company for central station
and material as detailed above £5,250
Cost of additional plant at central station 3,700
Feeders, mains, house connections, and meters 5,300
44 arc lamps and mains 1,650
Total £15,900
Working Expenses and Revenue.
The annual working expenses of the station will be as follows :
Coal and firewoed, 536 tons at 169 £450
Water, 900,000 gallons at Is 45
Oil, waste, and petty stores 76
Carbons for street lamps 100
Repairs and renewals to buildings £40
,, steam and dynamo plant 200
,, batteries 100
,, street mains .. 100
,, arc lamps 20
460
Salaries and wages :
One superintendent and one clerk £330
One stoker, one driver, one battery man, one lamp
trimmer 250
580
Office and sundry expenses 70
£1,780
As shown above, £15,900 will be required for the works, to this
should be added about £1,000 for working capital, so that the
total sum you would have to borrow amounts to £17,000. This
must be repaid in 30 years, the annual payment being in round
numbers £880, which, added to the £1.780 working expenses,
brings up the total annual outlay to £2,660.
The revenue to be derived from the working of the station may
be estimated as follows :
44 street lamps at £22. 10s £990
2,000 16-c.p. glow lamps at 18s. per lamp, or their equiva-
lent at 8d. per unit 1,800
Rentofmeters 50
Sale of current for motive power 60
Total revenue £2,900
There would thus be a small profit— namely, £240— on the
working of the station, and this would be increased with the use
of current for motive power and with the increased use of the light
up to the ultimate capacity of the station. The street mams
wnich I have included in my estimate would enable you to bring
current to the railway station, where both glow and arc lamps could
be installed, and, generally speaking, you would be able to supply
current to a distance not exceeding 1,000 yards from the central
station. ^ If you should desire to supply current to the Weeleyan
.College, it could be done by a separate high-pressure alternating-
current supply with overhead mains starting from some point near
the Shire HaU. The Board of Trade will raise no objection to
overhead mains outside the town. A small alternator, combined
with a direct-current motor, would be required for this serN'ice, the
motive power being derived from the low-pressure supply. The
supply of light to the college could, however, only profitable if it
were restricted to the hours between dusk and 1 or 2 a.m., and
the lighting carried on under a special contract independent of
the provisional order.
(rENBRAL Conclusions.
I have, in the foregoing, dealt in detail with the \'ariou8 iiues-
tions arising in connection with your taking the electric lighting
of Taunton into your own hands ; and for your convenience I
now give a short sumnmry of the results of my investigation.
1. The present electric lighting system is not suitable for small
areas, and cannot be worked at a profit if the supply must be con-
tinuous. For this reason I cannot advise you to buy the under-
taking as a going concern.
2. Taunton can be lighted most economically on the direct-
current low-pressure three- wire system, with batteries to take the
day load.
3. If yon determine to start an entirely new station, it should
be placed dose to the river.
4. If you determine to utilise the existing station, you can take
over the buildings, boilers, engines, and accessories, and 44 iron
posts, payinf^ the company £5,250.
5. Tne existing oountershn^ting, dynamos, alternators, trans-
formers, batteries, overhead mains, and arc lamps not to be taken
over, but to be removed by the company.
6. The total cost of a complete worlu suitable for the supply of
2,000 16-c.p. private glow lamps, and 44 street arc lamps, is
£15,900. The annual working expenses will amount to £2,660,
including repayment of loan, and the annual revenue will amount
to £2,900. — I am, gentlemen, yours faithfully,
(Signed) Gisbert Kapp, M.Inst.C.E.
Westminster, April 26, 1892.
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
HETROPOUTAN ELECTRIC SUPPLY COMPANY.
The shareholders of the Metropolitan Electric Supply Company,
Limited, held their fifth ordin%ry general meeting on Friday last
at Winchester House, Old Broad-street, E.C., Sir John Pender,
K.C.M.G. (the chairman), presiding.
The Seoretary (Mr. E. Cunliflfe-Owen, C.M.6.) having read the
notice convening the meeting,
The ChAlmuui said : Gentlemen, the resolution which I have to
put is : ** That the report and accounts for the year ending
December 31, 1891, presented to this meeting be, and the same
are hereby, approved and adopted." Before I ask you to approve
of that resolution I must give you a r6sum4 of the year's work ; but
I beg that you will be rather indulgent to-day, as my voice is not
quite up to the usual mark, because I am only just recovering from
an attack of bronchitis. When I had the pleasure of addressing
you 12 months ago I was able to report that our installations were
all but completed, that our mains extended for 67 miles, that we
had 480 customers upon our books, and that, looking at the rate
which we had calculated as being the proper rate that we might pos-
sibly earn, we saw the prospect of a good profit. Our position to-day
is strengthened because we have upwaras of 1,(XX) customers upon
our books, as against less than 500. Yet thesecustomers are learning
how to economise, and their consumption has not been in propor-
tion to their increased number ; but we have the satisfaction of
learning from experience, and, after all, our knowledge of electric
lighting is based upon the experience we gather from day to day.
But taking the consumption from our meters, the prolmbility Is
that we shall be able to supply double, or even more than double,
the number of lights we originally contemplated ; so that idl the
expenses in connection with the production of the light have been,
I may say, already incurred ; and what we want now is more
customers rather than a larger rate of consumption from our present
number. At all events, we are not depending upon that, but upon
additional customers, because I would rather see our return based
upon 5,000 customers than upon 2,(X)0 customers, so that what we
want now is to exercise patience and push our business. We are a
paying concern. It is growing every day, and while we are
passing through very much the same phase of troubles that the
gas and telegraph companies passed through, which latter com-
panies have been passing under my own eye, I can see that there is
a very satisfactory future before us, a satisfaotorv future to those
who stand by the Company, and that there will also be a growing
dividend. We did not contemplate Paddington in our first outlay,
and therefore we have exceed^ our capital expenditure by about
£50,(XX). But in this case we have brought a very important
district into our system— one which is likely to prove i^uable
in future ; but concerns like this must grow, and when we have
secured for it an amount of custom to take up all the light that we
can produce, it will then turn out a very important installation
indeed for the Company. I think it will be right to give yon at
the present moment an idea of the position of our Company as com-
pared with other companies. On January 1, 1892, the London
Electric Company had 36,000 lights, Westminster 62,000, Kensing-
ton and Knightsbridge 38,000, Pall Mall and St. James's 38,000,
Chelsea 28,000, House-to-House 19,000, Netting Hill 3,000, and
this Company 82,000, and we have since increMed to 97,000. I
find that m the last three weeks we have obtained applications for
5,137 lamps. This is the largest number ever obtained in the same
time. You see, gentlemen, we have got everything ready to
supply the public. In fact, we have the public almost clamouring
togeton to our list, and it is therefore a question with usof patience,
ana if we stand by this growing concern, depend upon it the same
harvest will be i^^P^ aslias been rei^>ed by gas companies and tele-
graph companies. There has been , unfortunately for electric lighting,
a great deal of speculation, but we have not been in that specula-
tion. We have ouilt up this concern not on a speculative baids
at all, bat we have built it up on the lines that the several instal-
lations should be independent of each other. We are, I believe,
the most complete, economical, and handy system of eiectrio
478
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 13, 1892.
lighUng that exists in the city of London at the present time.
Any speculation we have had has not been in money, nor as far
as the lighting is concerned) but speculation as to tne best and
cheapest mode of producing the light. I have much sympathy
with those who have spent a ffreat deal of money, and, I am
afraid, not to any good purpose, having put too many eggs in one
basket. That has not been our principle — quite the reverse ; but
it would have been a very grand step in electrical science if we
had been able to recognise tnat these great speculative ventures
had ended in a great success. I fear financially, for the moment,
it has not been so, but while it has reflected more or less upon
electric lighting disadvantageously, we are on a sounder and
stronger founaation, because we have proved our position,
and are, as I say, now a paying concern. I suspect that
for the moment disappointment has, more or less, affected
the general body of the electric lighting companies' share*
holders ; but I may say that it has not shaken my belief in
the future of the electric light. And as London and its
suburban population is about the least well supplied of any of the
large cities in Europe, I consider that the field is only beginninj?
to be occupied, that it is a very wide field, and when it is occupied
it will be a very remunerative field indeed to those who have the
courage to watch its progress with patience and stand by it. I
shall not trouble you by going into the accounts. Our accounts
are made up in accordance with the requirements of the Board of
Trade. You have them before you. They speak for themselves,
and they have been superintended and approved by your auditors,
but if any eenUeman wishes to put any Questions to me on the
subject, I shall be very pleased to answer him. As I have already
said, we shall want a certain amount of additional capital, and we
propose to raise that capital, as it will be only temporary, by the
issue of £100,000 of debentures. I do not think we shall need to
use more than £50,000 of this amount, but we think it better to be
prepared for raising the extra amount should we require it. I
am glad to take this opportunity of informing you on the
subject. We shall issue these debentures pro rata to the share-
holders at par, and to meet the smallest investors. We think
wo offer a plum to every investor in this Company, and,
while we give this rate— which I consider rather a high rate
under ordinary circumstances— still, the amount is smaU. We
wish to show the shareholders that we are in touch and in
sympathy with them, and we wish to encourage them to go on by
giving them a little better debenture than they could procure
elsewhere, ^hey cannot procure a better debenture anywhere
than those we offer them. vYe may pay them off within five years,
but we intend to pay them off in 5^ years. I have stated before
that when we get our present system in working order it will be
only the beginning of what, I believe, will be a very extended
system ind^d. But we are not going to run amy risks ; we
intend to satisfy ourselves, and thoroughly nurse what we ba>-e
got, and which is good, nursing it up to a point which will enable
us and you to say ** Go ahead ! " In that case we may require
more money, and will require to deal with the £100,000 of
debentures in a more extended order ; but in the meantime we
do not expect to spend more than £50,000, so as to enable us to
complete our Paddington system. Then we shall rest, and watch
the progress of it, and when I meet you another year I hope I
shall be able to show you that, as we have doubled the number of
our customers since we last met, so we shall have doubled the
present number when I meet you again. With these remarks,
gentlemen, I beg to move the resolution which I have read.
BCr. J. Denlaon Pender (deputy-chairman) seconded the motion,
which was unanimously i^lopted.
The CliairmAn next proposed : **That a final dividend of 28.
per share on the whole of tne ordinary shares of the Company be,
and the same is hereby, declared, sucn dividend to be payable on
May 14, 1892. to all holders on the Company's register on April 30,
1892."
Admiral Sir George H. Rlokarda, K.C.B., F.R.S., seconded
the motion, which was agreed to.
On the motion of the ChalrmaB, seconded by Sir James
Anderson, Mr. J. Denison Pender, Admiral Sir George H.
Richards, K.C.B., and Mr. John Benjamin Verity were re-elected
directors of the Company.
BCr. Mnllett moved the reappointment of Messrs. Deloitte,
Dover, Griffiths, and Co. as auditors of the Company.
The motion having been seconded,
Sir T. Basley enquired whether any sum had been written off
for depreciation of accumulators.
The Chairman : We have no accumulators.
Sir T. Basley : Have you written anything off for depreciation
of the machinery ? It is quite evident that the machinery upon
which £129,000 was expended up to December 31, 1890, is not
worth that amount now.
The Clialrman said that the responsibility of the accounts rested
with the auditors, and perhaps Mr. Griffiths would answer the
question. The principle of writing off for depreciation was a sound
one, and shoula be observed. ^ might, however, tell them that
the Board of Trade had passed the accounts.
BCr. omiltlis (the auditor) : In reply to the observations of the
shareholders, no reserve has been made for depreciation of accu-
mulators, machinery, or plant this year. I think the shareholders
will see that as the Company is practically in its infancy, and haa
not yet by any means reach^ its full power of working, it would
be hardly fair to charge any depreciation in so small a revenue
account. All expenses of repairs and renewals, however, are
charged against revenue.
The Clialraian : The moment the capital account is closed, and
we are beginning to make money, we snail write something off for
ddpreciatioo.
Sir T. Badsy thought that something ought to have been
written off for depreciation, and therefore he maintained that the
profit was not earned.
The Ctmlrmmn : That is a matter of opinion. The time baa not
come 3ret to write off the depreciation ; but when it does come it
shall be written off.
A Shareholder : What is the utmost capacity of your machinery
in the way of lights ?
The Chairman : I believe the capacity is now about 250,000
lamps. There was a general impression last year that the amount
charged for electric lighting was too small ; but now the idea is to
supply a much larger number of lamps at a smaller rate. I think
our average price is more likely to be 10s. than 20b. per lamp. I
certainly think we shall build up our business on a better founda-
tion by obtaining a large number of customers at a small rate than
by having a few customers at a high rate.
A Shareholder : Do we undertake contracts for the wiring of
houses?
The Chairman : We feel that, as there are so many people en-
g^ed in installation work, if we were to take it up, we shoula have
that particular trade against us, and that is not desirable. Besides,
I believe it would require additional capital if we were to carry on
that business ; therefore, I think it is better that we should
allow that work to be done by others. There is a compan^r which
has lately been formed for doing that work, and I wish it God-
speed.
The motion for the re-election of the auditors was then put and
carried.
BCr. W. T. Smith : Is our light likely to be used for street
lighting ?
The Chairman : Negotiations are now going on for lighting
Oxford-street.
On the motion of the Ber. Walker Flower, a vote of thanks
was given to the Chairman and Board.
The Chairman, in acknowledgment, said : I must confess that
I am a little disappointed to-day that I am not paying you a better
dividend, because I thought by doubling the number of our cus-
tomers we should double the amount of our trade.
The proceedings then terminated.
SUBMARINE CABLES TRUST.
The ordinary general meeting of the certificate-holders of this
Trust was held on the 5th inst. , at the offices, Winchester House
Sir John Pender presided, and, in moving the adoption of the
report, stated that the expenses for the year had been £1,186, or
£11 more,biib the cost of administering the Trust was £813 under
the amount provided by the trust deed, owing in a great measure
to the trustees not havinj? filled up the vacancies as they occurred
by the death of their colleagues. They thought, however, that
the time had now come when these vacancies should be filled, and
they had considered it judicious to select two younger men,
who, nevertheless, had considerable experience in submarine tele-
graph business and knowledge of the securities in which the
capital of the Trust was invested. They had paid during the
year £7. 2s. 6d. , but the balance brought f orwam from last year
was equal to Ids. 7d. per cent, on the value of the outstanding
certificates. Their revenue during the past year had been sufficient
to meet two coupons of £3 each, and pay off about an additional
7s. of the overaue coupon. There remained still a balance of
£1. 17s. 6d. in arrear, but should the dividend on their holding in
Anglo-American stock improve and the income from their oUier
investments be maintained, they trusted that this arrear would be
gradually paid off. They hoped to pay the balance of the coupons
ue on the 15th ult. on or about Ist ox August.
Sir James Anderson seconded the resolution, which was carried
unanimously.
On the motion of the Chairman, seconded by the Blarqnla of
Tweeddale, a resolution was afterwards passed electing Mr.
John Denison Pender and Mr. Kenneth Anderson trustees.
The Chairman stated that the Trust was of a peculiar nature,
being practically a tontine, which would wind itself up in a certain
number of years, and therefore they required youthful men to see
the end of it. At the same time he thought that the young men
who had been appointed trustees that day would have hereafter to
elect others to succeed them.
COMPANIES' REPORTS.
CHELSEA ELECTRICITY SUPPLY COMPANY, LIMITED.
Directors: J. Irving Courtenay, Esq., chairman; Major-
General Webber, C.B. (retired R.E ), deputy chairman ; Niu^ent
Daniell, Esq., Emile Garcke, Esc]., Sir George Prescott, Bart.
Secretary : S. J. Cluer.
Report of the Directors and accounts for the year ending
December 31, 1891.
The number of lamps installed on December 31, 1890, was
19,580, and on December 31, 1891, 27,500 ; the number installed at
the present time is over 30,000. The gross rerenue for the year m
£10,172. 10s. lid., as against £6,079. 12s. 5d. for 1890; and the
gross profit for the past year £1,750. lis. 4d., as against
£542. 19s. 5d. for 1890. There has also been a decided reduction
in the cost of producing the electricity, but, as the new chimnsy
and the rearrangement of the plant were not completed unifi
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 13, 1892.
479
the end of the year, the improvement was obtained onlv in the
last quarter of the year, as the following figures will show.
The coal, water, wages, and other running expenses, for the first
nine months of the vear amounted to 4'5d. per unit sold, while for
the last three months of the year they were only 3*0d. per unit, or
37i per cent, of the revenue, and there is every reason to believe
that the improvement will continue. The management expenses,
including rent, rates, and taxes, now represent 1 '9d. per unit sold,
as against S-Od. per unit for 1890. The plant is all in good working
order, and the mains are in first-rate condition and have given no
trouble. It has not been deemed advisable to make an issue of the
preference capital authorised by the shareholders at their last
meeting, but the remaining £10,000 first mortgage debentures
(part of an issue of £30,000) have been allotted. The money thus
raised has been applied to the purchase of a site for an additional
storage station, to additions and improvements to generating plant,
to enlargements and extensions of mains, and to the building of a
second cnimney stack. The Directors have to report the retire-
ment from the post of managing director of Major-General
Webber, C.B., who retains his seat on the Board as deputy
chairman. The retiring Directors are Major-General Webber and
Mr. Daniell, who, being eligible, offer themselves for re-election.
The auditors, Messrs. Cooper Bros, and Co., also offer themselves
for re-election.
Capital.
Total share capital paid up £46,886
Total loan capital borrow^ 25,500
Capital Acxx)unt Yeab ending Deoember 31.
£72,385
Expended to
Dec. 31,
1890.
Dr. £ 8. d.
Land and freehold buildings*
5
Leasehold buildings... 9,172 13
Generating machinery and tools
10,643 2 7
Accumulators, motor-transformers, and
apparatus 1.3,798 2 10
Mains 15,701 18 9
Meters 2,124 3 4
Electrical instruments 126 16 6
Office furniture 149 19 9
Cost of provisional orders and other pre!
development expenses, 7,054 19 2
Parliamentary expenses opposing other
orders —
Expended
to Dec. 31,
1891.
£ s. d.
548 2 7
1,081 10 4
7,690 10 5
regulating
2,165 19 1
2,275 6 2
751 5 1
44 7 3
iminary and
1,096 5 9
provisional
304 14 0
Total expen-
diture ]>ec.
31, 1891.
£ s. d.
548 2 7
10,254 3 9
18,333 13 0
15,964 1 11
17,977 4 11
2,875 8 5
126 16 6
185 7 0
8,151 4 11
304 14 0
£58,762 16 4 15,958 0 8 74,720 17 0
* Includes property purchased subject to mortgage of £800.
Cr. £ 8. d.
Ordinary shares of £5 each fuUv paid 46,385 0 0
Founders' shares of £1 each fully paid 500 0 0
Debentures paid up 25,500 0 0
£72,385 0 0
Note.— The whole of the issue of £30,000 first mortgage deben-
tures has now been subscribed.
Revenue Account Year ending Dec. 31, 1891.
Dr. A.— To Generation of Electricity. £ s. d. £ s. d.
Coal or other fuel, including expenses
on the same 2,692 11 0
Oil, water, cotton waste, and engine-
room stores 866 4 0
Wages of men 1,079 14 .S
Repairs, maintenance, and renewals :
Uuildings, £65. 168. 6<1. ; engines
and boUers, £282. 16s. 8d. ; dyna-
mos, £242. lis. 8d. ; instruments,
tools, and sundries, £30. 6s. 4d. ... 62111 2
B. — To Distribution of Electricity.
Wages at out-stations, meter winding
and readings, etc 267 7 8
Stores used at out-stations, etc .30 15 6
Repairs, maintenance, and renewals :
Mains, £14. 15s. 6d. ; accumulators
andapparatusatdistributingstation,
and motor transformers, £431. 13s.
5d. ; meters on consumers' premises,
£66. 2s. 5d 512 11 4
5,260 0 5
C— To Rent, Rates, and Taxes.
Rents payable 286 4 0
Rates and taxes 166 0 6
810 14 6
1). — To Management Expenses.
Directors' remuneration 600 0 0
Salaries of staff 774 17 10
Salary or commission of collector 136 5 4
Stationery and printing 54 10 6
General establishment charges 211 6 10
Auditors of Company 25 0 0
452 4 6
E. — To Law and Parliamentary Expenses.
Law expenses
F.— To Special Charges.
Insurance 56 13 0
Wayleaves 6 0 0
35 6 8
Balance; being gross profit
61 13 0
1,750 11 4
£10,172 10 11
Cr. £ s. d.
Sale of current (less allowances made) 9,681 19 1
Rental of meters 299 11 8
Transfer fee 0 2 6
R^nts receivable and sundry small accounts 190 17 8
Dr.
Net Revenue Account.
Interest on debentures paid and accrued to date ...
Fees to trustees for debenture-holders
Interest on mortgage of freehold (purchase subject
to mortgage)
Balance of suspense account written off
Bad debts written off
Balance to be carried forward to next account ...
Cr.
£10,172 10 II
£ s. d.
1,205 19 3
100 0 0
18 0 0
297 9 0
64 6 8
132 0 0
£1,817 14 11
£ s. d.
Balance from last account 67 3 7
Balance from revenue account 1,750 11 4
£1,817 14 11
Dr. General Balance-sheet, Dec. 31, 1891. £ s. d.
Amount received as per capitfid account 72,385 0 0
Billspayable 3,094 12 4
Sundry creditors 5,433 16 11
Net revenue account : balance at credit thereof 132 0 0
£81,045 9 3
Cr. £ s. d.
Amount expended as per capital account 74,720 17 0
Stores on hand —
Coal 20 14 0
Oil 18 13 5
General stores, including work in
progress 703 4 8
742 12 1
Sundry debtors for current supplied, etc., less bad
debts deducted 4,062 2 6
Cash at bankers :
The London and South- Western
Bank 1,474 10 6
Parr's Banking Company 6 18
Cash in hand 39 5 6
1,519 17 8
£81,045 9 3
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
1,802 0 6
■nglneering Xzoluuige, Limited. — This Company has been
formed, with a capital of £10,000, to provide, regulate, and main-
tain a building, room or rooms, suitable for an engineering
exchange in London, and to acquire, preserve, and disseminate
useful information connected with the engineering interests
throughout all markets. The subscribers are : Messrs. R. Bolton,
110, Leadenhall-slreet, London ; A. T. Salisbury -Jones, 33, Old
Broad-street, London ; W. P. Gallwey, 82, Chelverton-road,
Putnev ; J. J. Dale, 123, The Grove, Hammersmith ; F. B.
Nicholson, 9, St. Petersburg-place, Bayswater ; C. W. Potter,
Swafford-road, Twickenham, and >V. J. P. Moore, 104b, Mount-
street, Grosvenor- square, tx>ndon.
Sheffield Xleotrlc Ll^^lit And Power Company, Limited. —
This Company has been registered with a capital of £98,000, in £7
shares, to acquire and take over as a going concern the electrical
lighting and electrical fitting business of the Sheffield Telephone
Exchange and Electric Light Com|)any, Limited, to enter into an
agreement with that companv, und to carry on the business of
electricians, mechanical engineers, suppliers of electricity, etc.
The first subscribers are :
Sharee.
J. Tasker, Crookes, Sheffield, manufacturer 1
J. Gamble, Endcliffe-crescent, Sheffield, manufacturer I
G. Senior, Western-bank, Sheffield, manufacturer 1
G. Franklin, Claremont, Sheffield, accountant 1
W. Tasker, 1, Parker's-road, Sheffield, manufacturer 1
F. Tasker, 35, Aldred-road, Walkley, Sheffield, engineer 1
J. H. R. Tasker, Sheffield, engineer 1
The number of Directors is not to be less than three, nor more than
seven ; the first being the first five signatories. Qualification,
£150; remuneration to be fixed by the Companv in general
meeting. Solicitors, Messrs. Broomhcad and Co., George-street,
Sheffield.
480
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 13, 1892.
BUSINESS NOTES.
Westorn And BraslllMi T^Hegtiplh Company.— The reoeipte
for tbo week ended May 6 were £2,710.
XMitmi Sstenaion Telegimph. — The receipts for April
amounted to £38,824, as a^nst £44,729 in the corresponding
period, showing a decrease of £5,905.
City And Sontli I^mdon BallwAy. — The receipts for the week
ending May 8 were £802, against £695 for the same period of
last year, or an increase of £107. The total receipts to date from
January 1, 1892, show an increase of £1,278, as compared with
last year.
ConaoUdated Teleplione Conatmetlon and Halntenanoe Com-
pany, Limited. — The Directors recommend dividends at the rate
of 6 per cent, on preference shares, and 1 per cent, on the ordinary
shares, less income tax, for the half-year ending March 31 last,
making, with the interim dividends paid, 6 per cent, per annum on
the preference, and £3. lOs. per cent, on the ordinary shares for
the year.
Uetropolitan Xlectric. — Sir T. Bazley, in his contention about
depreciation at this Company's meeting, showed that he was not
only a sensible but also a business man. The answer he got was,
however, just what might be expected from the men who are
running this concern, and what we foresaw would be made There
was no depreciation made, because more money was wanted. This
is not business ; it may be finance or ^fiiieM/ie.
Swan United Xleotrio xaght Company, l«imited. — Tlie Directors
of this Company have resolved to pay an ad interim dividend at
the rate of 8 per cent, per annum, free of income tax, for the half-
year ending 31st March, 1892, to be distributed in accordance with
the articles of association. The dividend will be paid upon the
register as on May 10, and the dividend warrants will be issued on
the 31st May instant. This works out at 28 9d. and two- thirds
of a penny per share on the ordinary shares, and 38. 6^d. per share
on the fully- paid shares.
Wast India and Panama Tolograpli Company, Limited. —
The report of this Company for the half-year ended December 31
states that the amount to credit of revenue is £36,141, against
£43,978 for the corresponding half of 1890, the expenses being
£25,296 against £21,898, leaving a balance of £10,845, which, with
the amount brought forward, makes a total of £16.100. It is pro-
posed to pay the first and second preference dividends of 6s. per
share, and a distribution on the ordinary shares of 6d. per share,
tax free, £2,122 being carried forward.
Companies Begistored during March.— The following elec-
trical companies were registered during the past month :
Corlett Electrical Engineering Company, Limited, £10
shares £10,000
Electric Cycle Syndicate, Limited, £1 shares 3,000
Madras Electric Tramways Company, Limited, £1 shares 100,000
Western Counties Electric Light and Power Syndicate,
Limited, £60 shares 25,000
Uvorpool Telephones. — Tenders are required for the execu-
tion of certain electrical work, consisting of wires and
instruments for about 95 miles of telephonic communication,
with alarm bells, and other electrical appliances required
between Liverpool and Lake Vyrnwjr, and between Liverpool and
Rivington, for the Corporation of Liverpool. Drawings may be
obtained at the office of the water engineer, Mr. J. Parry,
M.LC.E., Municipal Buildings, Liverpool. Sealed tenders must
be addressed the Town Clerk, Municipal Buildings, Liverpool, and
delivered at his office before 12 noon on June 7th. The person or
persons whose tender may be accepted will be required to execute
a contract, to be prepared by Mr. G. J. Atkinson, town clerk.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1892.
8242.
8258.
8265.
8267.
8268.
8294.
8367.
8385.
May 2.
Improvemonts in and connected with electrically-pro-
pelled TChiclea. Friedrich August Haselwander, 70,
Market-street, Manchester. (Complete specification.)
Improyoments in carrying or .supporting electric col-
lectors. Michael Holroyd Smith and Thomas Perceval
Wilson, 55, Chancery -lane, London.
An improved globe or shade holder for electric, gas, or
other lamps. William Howard Ingall, 37« Chancery-lane,
London.
Improvements in electrical circuit arrangements and
apparatus f6r telegraph message signalling. Frederick
Thomas Hollins, Saltley House, Forest Drive, Leytonstone,
Essex.
Kloctrioal steering gear. George Sylvester Grimston and
Alfred Herbert Dykes, 28, Southampton-buildings, Chancery-
lane, London.
May 3.
The dsetrio light advcrtlacment. John Charles Baynton
Taylor, Paradise Cottage, HoUoway, Bath.
Improvements in incaadescent electric lamps. John
Robert Hughes, 21, Finsbury-pavement, London.
Improvements in electricity meters. William Frederick
Taylor, Boewell Court, Croydon,
8397.
8399.
8408.
8447.
8452.
8463.
8493.
8507.
8529.
85.35
85.37.
85.56.
8576.
8611.
8638.
8642.
8663.
8706.
8720.
Improvements in the mothod of and apparatus Car tri
forming and distrihutiag dsctrie currents. Friedrich
August Haselwander, 70, Market-street, Manchester. (Com-
plete specification. )
neetrical or galvanic braces. Joseph William Paramore
and Henry Theaker, Bank-builaings, GeQrge-Btreet,
Sheffield.
Improvements in electric incandescent lamps. Isidore
Clifford, 61, Chancery -lane, London.
A new or improved holder for the globes or tfiadss of
electrical, gas, and other lamps. Richard George Evered,
7, Staple-inn.
Improvements in driving certain machines by tflaetra-
motive power. Arthur Chapman, Vulcan Iron Works,
Spencer-street, Rhodeswell-road, Limehouse, London.
Improvements in electrio arc lamps. C-arl Coerper, 46,
Southampton-buildings, London. (Complete specification).
May 5.
Improved telephone transmitter. Richard Whitehead and
Alfred Doxey, 7, Well-road, Heeley, Sheffield.
Kieotric time-cheek, call-bell, and registering apparatus.
Charles Miles, 6, Wells-road, Totterdown, Bristol.
Improvements in galvanic batteries. Walker Moeeley,
82, Montpelierroad, London.
Xleotrioal hose signalling apparatus. William Fowler,
52, Chancery-lane, London. (Complete specification.)
Improved electrio light switch. William Edward Langdon,
Electrical De)mrtment, Midland Railway, Derby.
Improvements relating to alternating-current eleetrlo
machinery. Octave Patin, 45, Southampton-buildings,
C'hancery-lane, London
May 6.
Improvements relating to the measurements of electrio
ourrents. Edward Howard Percy Humphreys, 39, King's-
road, Chelsea, London.
An improved electric alarm for showcases. Rudolph C.
Kru8chke,.55, Chancery-lane, London.
Improvements in eleetrlo mains. Thomas Tomlinson, 24,
Southampton -buildings. Chancery-lane, London.
An improved holder for holding shades or globes of
electric, gas, or other lamps. Ernest Francis Carpenter,
37, Chancery- lane, London.
May 7.
Improvements in the cores of eleotromagnets for motors
and other purposes. Hanry Francis Joel, 44, Lavender-
grove, Dalston, London.
Improvements in electrical fittings, such as ceiling rosea
and out-outs. Stuart Archibald Moore, 46, Lincoln*8-inn-
fields, London.
ImprovementiTin electrio meters. Walter Thomas Goolden
and Sydney Evershed, Woodfield Works, Harrow-road,
London.
(Riatti.)
SPEOQFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1891.
6485. Dynamo-electrio, etc, machines. Gravier.
6730. Dynamo-electrio machines. Mordey.
8323. Thermo-electric apparatus. Goldsmid.
9291. Xlectric arc lamps. Bishop.
9734. Dynamo-electric machines. Aldred.
10,082. Voltaic hatterles. Jablochkoff.
10,256. Electric bdls. King and Mendham.
20,864. Kleotro-modical ooU and hattery.
Tompsitt.
1892.
871. Xlectric cables. Lake. (Brooks.)
4764. Xlectric wire insulators. Lake. (Hammond.)
4773. Xleotrioal conductors. Rodfem. (Borgmann.)
4816. Xleotrioal oables. Fairweather. (Philli()s.)
4961. Xleotrio slide resistances. Muirhead.
Hodgkinson and
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Namn;
Brush Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, Outta Percha k Telegraph Co.
House-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan IJnited
St. James'
National Telephone
Electric Construction
Westminster Electric
Liverpool Electric Supply
{
Price
Paid.
Wediiea
day
«^^
34
—
as
10
20^
5
»i
—
Si
5
1
8i
■**
—
«il
5
*i
10
6i
—
«.".
f.
f'4
3
H
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 20, 1892.
481
NOTES.
Bristol.— The district of St. George's, Bristol, is
thinking of having the electric light.
iMme. — The permanent machinery of the central
station at Lame is being started this week.
Southampton. — A new pier has been opened at
Southampton and will probably be lighted by electric light.
Niagara. — Prof. Forbes, we hear, has been visiting
Niagara, with a view of reporting upon the proposed power
transmission scheme.
Blackpool. — ^An installation of electric light has been
put down at the Blackpool Aquarium by Messrs. Heenan
and Froude, of Manchester.
Rio Janeiro. — ^According to the Bio News^ the tele-
phone line between Bio and San Paulo has been partly
constructed, and, so far, works well.
Electricity ▼. Cable.— The St. Louis cable tram
system is now, after some months' active labour, entirely
changed to an electric traction system.
Hnddersfield. — A clerk of works is to be appointed, at
a salary of three guineas a week, to superintend the erection
of the electric light station at Hnddersfield.
Wolverhampton. — We understand that Wolver-
hampton is moving with regard to the electric light, and
that Mr. Preece has been called in to advise.
Exetor. — The borough surveyor of Exeter has prepared
a long report on electric lighting of the city, which has
been printed and circulated for the consideration of
members.
WalsaU.— Mr. F. Brown, M.I.C.K, has been called in
to advise and report as to the various tenders sent in,
respecting a scheme which is to be carried out in reference
to electric lighting.
Harwich. — Nothing further has yet been done with
reference to the electric lighting of Harwich, but it is
probable that the Corporation may arrange to transfer
their powers to a private company. ^
The EnffineerinflT Exchange in Billiter-buildings
has been opened. A dinner will be held at the London
Tavern, Fenchurch-street, on May 25, at 6 p.m. (lis. 6d.),
and a smoking concert is to follow.
Bamet. — The arbitration case of Joel v. The Bamet
Vestry is progressing to an end. Expert and other
witnesses have been examined, and the case is adjourned
to Monday, when possibly a decision will be made.
Colour Photography. — As numbers of our readers
have been interested in Mr. Ives's colour photographs, it
may be well to mention that he will give a lecture before
the Society of Arts on this subject at 8 p.m. on Wednesday
next.
Aiores Cable. — The decree of the Portuguese (Govern-
ment has been published annulling the contract entered
into with the British company for laying the cable to the
Azores, and ordering the undertaking to be put up for
public tender.
Medical Electricity. — According to an Aberdeen
paper, a Prof. Geismar has been curing toothache, deafness,
and even blindness by means of electricity ! He must be
a peculiarly able manipulator of nerves, or his audience
peculiarly credulous.
Sophia. — A Sophia correspondent of Vlndusirie Elec-
triqtte says that the Parisian bankers EUicott et Cie. are
preparing to issue a loan of 6,000,000f. at 78 per cent, for
the establishment of electric light in the municiiNil buildings
and baths of Sophia.
Sonthwark. — At the meeting of the St. Saviour's
Board of Works last week, the clerk read a letter from the
Board of Trade, expressing their satisfaction that the
Southwark Electric Lighting Company were in a position
to carry out the order.
Navy ProJectileB. — The Daily News points out that
the parliamentary returns just issued shows that the
Admiralty have gone to foreign manufacturers for various
requirements, amongst which are £3,000 worth of mirrors
for electric light projectors.
Nottingham* — The Electric Lighting Committee of
Nottingham have decided to appoint Mr. H. Talbot to the
position of electrical engineer to the Corporation, at a
salary of £300 a year. Mr. Talbot has been until now the
engineer of the Chelsea Electricity Supply Company.
Beverley. — The owners of two large works near
Beverley are thinking of introducing the electric light. Mr.
Dixon, at the last meeting of the Town Council, moved
that the price of gas be reduced 5d. per 1,000ft. from July
next, as a timely concession, but his motion was defeated.
London-Bordeaux Telephone. — The telephone be-
tween Paris and Bordeaux will be in working order on
June 1, and a special service will be instituted (says the
Paris correspondent of the Chronicle) to transmit messages
from the latter place and most of the large French towns
to London.
Training Ship. — The London School Board have voted
the sum of £1,500 for provision of a boiler and electric
light installation on board the training ship '* Shaftesbury,"
on the Thames. The installation will comprise 200 lamps.
The tenders have been invited and received, but the contract
has not yet been settled.
Halifax. — The committee of the House of Commons
presided over by Mr. Leonard Courtney have passed
unopposed a Provisional Order Confirmation Bill, which
authorises the Corporation of Halifax to undertake the
lighting of the borough with electricity. In due course
this will be presented for third reading.
Bath. — The electric light company propose to make
certain additions to the existing machinery in their central
station in Dorchester-street, so that a continuous 24 hours'
supply of light can be given from the 29th September next.
At present the current is turned off between the hours of
10 in the morning and 2 in the afternoon.
Royal Society. — Among the candidates for election as
Fellows of the Royal Society, we understand, are the
names of Prof. J. Fleming, of the University College, and
Lieut.-Colonel Armstrong, formerly assistant-instructor in
submarine mining and electricity, and inspector of sub-
marine defences, military ports, and coaling stations since
1884.
Berly's Electrical Directory, 1892. — We have
received the new edition of this admirable directory from
the new proprietors, Messrs. Alabaster, Catehouse, and
Co. This is the eleventh annual publication, and has been
thoroughly revised. The price is reduced to 4s. We
hope to deal at greater length with this volume in our
next issue.
Bristol Channel. — The Trinity House authorities
have communicated to the Bristol Docks Board their
intention to carry out a scheme for the better lighting of
the channel. There will be new lights at Black Nore
Point, and a new lighthouse on the Foreland, and another
light vessel eastward of the Nash lights, one of which is to
be abolished.
Dnndee. — We give elsewhere Prof. Kennedy's report
on the proposed scheme for the electric lighting of Dundee
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAT 20, 1892.
on the three-vire contiououB-current system with accumu-
latora. On Tuesday the Gas Commisaion adopted thi"
report, aud it was resolved to take in contracts for boilers,
Gteam piping, steam engines, dynamo machines, batteries,
and street mains. The work will be gone on with without
delay.
Hansloa XJgrbtlng. — Messrs. Drake and Gorham are
adding Rookwood, Llandaff, the residence of Colonel Sir
Edward Hill. K.C.B., M.P., to their long list of country
bouse installations. The motive power will be an Otto gas
engine driving an ejght-unit dynamo, which will supply
current for charging a battery, and also for working a large
pump. The installation is to be at work by the beginning
of July,
H.H.S. " RfiBolntlon." — A new battleship, built by
Palmer's Shipbuilding and Iron Company, will be launched
next week at Jarrow. The " Resolution," as the ship is to
be christened, will be lighted throughout by electricity,
with an installation of about 700 electric lamps, and will
also be equipped with four electric search-lights of 25,000
c.p., each of which will be worked by dynamos under
protection.
Books Recoived.^We have to acknowledge receipt
of the foUowinf^ — viz., "The Wire and the Wave : a Tale
of the Submarine Telegraph," by J. Munro, published by
the Religious Tract Society, 56, Paternoster -row ; and
" The Art of Teaching and Studying Languages," by
Prantjois Gouin, translated from the French by Howard
Swan and Victor Betis ; London r Geo. Philips and Son, 32,
Fleet-Btreet.
Hall. — The contract from the Hull Corporation for the
construction and laying of electric mains in the streets In the
prescribed area has been awarded to Messrs. Crompton
and Co., Limited. The tender comes to over £8,000.
The work will be commenced at once, and Mr. B. H.
Jenkineon, who has lately completed the Southampton
mains, has the carrying out of the contract on behalf of
Messrs, Crompton.
TypewritoramPoBtOffioes. —We recently mentioned
the very great extension in the use of typewriters for the
telegraph operators in the American post offices. We hear
that a similar extension is taking place in the British post
offices, and that already considerable numbers of type-
writers are in use. With the perfection of the telephonic
telegram system the use of typewriters will tend to become
universal in the telegraph offices.
Swltobboard for Glasgow. —Tenders are invited for
providing and erscting a switchboard, with connections, at
the Glasgow central electric lighting sUtiou, for the Glasgow
Gas and Electric Lighting Committee. Plans and specifica-
tions may be seen and forma of tender obtained on applica-
tion to Prof. Kennedy, 19, Little Queen-street, West-
mioster. Sealed offers will be received by Mr. J. D.
Marwick, town clerk. City Chambers, George-street,
Glasgow, up to 24th inst.
Oiiildford.—Tbe Guildford Town Council have had
before them the question of carrying out the public lit;hting
of their town by electricity. The lease of the Guildford
Mill expires shortly and is advertised by the Poyle
Trustees, to whom the mill belongs. If the Town Council
think of utilising their water power, the matter must be
therefore settled at once. The Corporation, who have the
welfare of their town much at heirt, are determined to
give full consideration to the project,
Waste FrodnotB, — Mr. Wigham Richardson states
that Mr. Mood (of Bninner, Mond, and Co.), who leads
the smoke from his chimneys into a wMenymy chamber,
obtains four tons of sulphate of ammonia for every 125
tons of coal burnt. The waste product of this amount of
coal is worth somewhere about £50. If results such as
these can be practically obtained, the waterspray condenser
might prove just as useful an adjunct to electrical engineers
as a similar arrangement has proved to gas engineers.
Board of Trade Laboratory.— The Board of Trade
experts have been working with assiduity at their task of
determining with accuracy, on their standard ampere-
balance, the exact weight of the attractive force under
stipulated conditions of one ampere. This weight, when
settled, will be adopted as the legal unit, and we under-
stand that they have, after several very careful experi-
ments, come within exceedingly small mathematical limits
of the desired accuracy. The published results, we fancy,
may be expected before very long.
Eleotrio Ugbt in tbe Vatican. — A project is on
foot for lighting the Pope's private chapel, and, indeed, the
whole of the Vatican, with incandescent lamps. His
Holiness bas not yet sanctioned tbe innovation, but has it
under consideration. There are not wanting vigorous
and powerful opponents to the scheme, which, on the
other hand, has the support of several high ecclesiastics,
who fail to see why the Vatican should not advance
with the times in this respect, more especially as the
offices of the Pope are already fitted vrith tbe telephone.
Blaokbam. — It is rather astonishing in a town the
size of Blackburn to find it reported that the prospective
use of the electric light is inconsiderable. Yet such is tbe
result reported by tbe Corporation, who have undertaken a
canvass of the principal tradesmen in the centre of the
town, A very moderate demand was reported, and it is
thought improbable that tbe Corporation will undertake
the light. It will, therefore, be open to any private com-
pany to tap this source of revenue after August, if they so
desire, and it is not likely the opportunity will be allowed
to pass.
Silent Fans, — The Duke of Edinburgh in his recent
speech stated his admiration for electric fans, but said those
he bad seen were far too noisy. The Keys' Electric Com-
pany, in reference to our note oa this subject, write to say
they have a whole series of electric fans running at their
showrooms, in Cbaring Cross-road, from tbe smallest sise
up to ^ h,p. These can be seen and felt, but not heard —
they are absolutely silent. The Czar of Russia should be
induced to change his system of fans on board his yacht,
so that the Duke might recommend the wares without fear
of distressful noise.
Eleotrio Poles. — The writer of the series of articles on
electric traction in the Glasgmo Herald mentions that a very
useful and comparatively elegant design of standard pole
has just been introduced into this country in the shape of
the American Miileken patent polo. It is of open iron-
work, and looks rather well. It cat) be fitted with long
brackets of light design, and altogether looks a good thing.
A description and illustrations of the pole are given in a
recent number of the Tramway aiid Itailiaiy Wvfld, and
Messrs. Dick, Kerr, and Co,, London and Kilmarnock, are
tbe British manufacturers.
Bradford Tramways. — The electric car at Bradford,
which is to be run a few weeks experimentally, began
carrying passengers at penny fares on Monday. The
public at tirat were distrustful, only 187 paying passengers
venturing. Since then patronage has been greater. The
object of the experiment has been to demonstrate the
possibility of running on such gradients, and to determine
the cost of running. The enquiry is being carried out
with a view to the adoption of electric traction on the
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY ^0, 1892.
483
Wakefield road tram lines. The low limit of the Board of
Trade, four miles an hour, is maintained with the greatest
ease.
Willesden. — ^At their last meeting the Willesden Local
Board received a large deputation as the result of the meet-
ing reported last week. Mr. Beavis, as 8|)okesman, read a
speech complaining of the excessive charges of the gas
company, and advocated the public supply of electric light
by the Local Board. Mr. Beavis doubted the power of the
Eiver Brent for use with a turbine, as suggested at the
meeting. He was asked for a copy of his address for the
consideration of the Board, and promised to supply this.
The chairman said the Local Board were already considering
the question of electric light, and were not in favour of
granting powers to a company.
Statton Indicator. — We are told that a simple indi-
cator for showing the names of stations in trains has been
worked out by two of the inspectors of the Local Govern-
ment Board. Hitherto the difficulty in the way of adoption
of such an arrangement has been the expense. It is under-
stood that the simplicity of the design obviates this objeo^
tion, and the cost of manufacture being only a few shillings
each. The indicators are worked with six dry cells, and the
name of the next stopping place is indicated in every
compartment. The inventors are Messrs. Brydone and
Chattaway. If proved practical, this invention ought cer-
tainly to come into extensive use.
Telephonio Telegrams. — A name will soon be
wanted to express a telegram sent by telephone. The
thing itself is within measurable distance. The Post-
master-General last Friday had an interview with a
deputation from the Associated Chambers of Commerce,
and stated that as to the Government management and
control of telephones, the experience of the United States
showed that efficiency and success were not dependent
upon the condition of the general adoption of underground
cables, but the increased general powers about to be sought
in a Bill by the Government would doubtless lead to an
improvement of the telephonic service.
Isle of Man Exhibition. — A vast number of business
men from Yorkshire and Lancashire take their summer
holidays in the Isle of Man, and we suppose it is the con-
sideration of this that has led to the idea of holding an
exhibition in Douglas from July to September. The build-
ings and ground will be lighted by electricity, and an
additional reason is given for exhibition as it is (until now)
the only exhibition organised in Great Britain for 1892.
Section 16 is devoted to electrical engineering. The
manager is Mr. Henry W. Pearson, Belle Vue, Douglas,
Isle of Man. The steamers from Barrow and Liverpool
are claimed as literally the swiftest vessels afloat.
Electric Welding and Eyesight. — ^A note has been
going round the technical press, stating that cases of loss of
eyesight have been met with in the Benardos system of
electric welding. We have written to Messrs. Lloyd and
Lloyd with reference to this point, and they inform us that
they do not know of any case, either in this country or
elsewhere, of " blue " glasses being used by the licensees of
the Benardos process for the protection of the eyesight of the
welders. Their own experience and that of their licensees,
extending now over several years, does not include one case
of injury to eyesight. Of course the glasses should be
properly selected in colour and density for the purpose.
Cambridge. — With regard to the electric lighting of
Cambridge, order is being gradually evolved from chaos.
It will be remembered that Prof. Garnett was appointed
consulting electrical engineer in May, 1891, and on May 17
last the Town Council decided not to proceed with the
work, and to hand over the powers contained in the pro-
visional orders to a company. To recompense Prof.
Garnett for his work the Council have voted that he be
offered 100 guineas, such amount to include travelling and
other incidental expenses, while at the same meeting they
adopted the report of the committee for the erection of an
electric light station in Thompson's-lane by the Cambridge
Electric Supply Company.
Eleotrio Fans at Vienna. — ^The ventilation of the
theatre in the Musical and Dramatic Exhibition at Vienna
has been carried out by the Blackman Ventilating Company,
Limited, 63, Fore-street, London, E.C., by means of a
Blackman fan, 72in. diameter, driven by belt from a
motor, and blowing in fresh air under all parts of the
ground floor. The impure air is removed by eight electric
Blackmans, distributed in various parts of the house ; the
current driving these fans is at a pressure of 150 volts, and
at the opening of the exhibition on Saturday last, Mr.
Watel, the company's engineer, and the inventor of the
electric Blackman, had the honour of being presented to
the Emperor during his inspection of the building.
Units and Newspaper Electricity.— Mr. Preece's
lecture at West Hampstead was very well attended, many hav-
ing to be refused admittance, but not all understood even the
simple technical terms used. A Hampstead paper speaks
about people in the future " paying for electricity not by
the number of ' bolts,' but by a combination of them termed
* wats ' " ; and further on it says " a kettle will boil with
100 'bolts* of electric light.*' It was Mr. Preece, we
believe, who proposed the " hot " and other names for the
unit of supply ; but the above examples are quite sufficient
to show the difficulty of the public in understanding even
the best-known technical terms when these convey no
distinct meaning other than that arbitrarily associated with
them.
Telephone Charflres at Sheffield. — The National
Telephone Company, whose recent revised scale of charges
for Sheffield led to great indignation on the part of their
subscribers, have now submitted a fresh tariff which they
hope will conciliate their customers. They propose to
charge £8 per annum for the mile and a half radius, £10 for
the two-mile mdius, and an additional £2. 10s. for every
half mile beyond this limit ; and £7 for private houses
within the two-mile radius. The Subscribers' Committee
had these proposals before them on Wednesday, but have
not signified approval or disapproval. Mr. A. R. Bennett,
on behalf of the New Telephone Company, attended, and
stated the rates, which are very low, upon which his com-
pany were prepared to commence an exchange in Sheffield.
Electricity at the Opera. — Two innovations were
observed by those who attended the brilliant opening of
the season of the Royal Italian Opera on Monday, says the
Daily News, In the first place, a theatrophone was hung at
the side of the prompter's box, communicating with the
manager's room, and enabling Sir A. Harris to hear what is
going on upon the stage even while ho is transacting
business in his private sanctum ; and in the second place,
incandescent electric lamps, placed in half the chandeliers
on the first two circles, replaced the wax candles which
from time immemorial have been used at Covent Garden
during the grand season. At present the remainder of the
chandeliers are lit by gas, but as the season advances it is
hoped that the hotter illuminant will be entirely dispensed
with.
Electrical Art Fittings. — A new departure in the
field of art applied to electric incandescent lamp fittings
has been introduced by Messrs. John Davis and Son, of
118, Newgate-street, London, who are the sole agents for
484
THE ELECMliCAL BNGIKEER, MAY 20, 1892.
the beautiful productions to which we call our readers'
attention. The electroliers, wall brackets, table lamps,
cornice sprays, and other fittings are composed of floral
decorations, produced in natural tints, the flowers and
leaves being artistically enamelled upon metal. The designs,
of which there are many hundreds, vie with each other in
elegance and artistic merit. These fittings may be considered
as unique and are admirably adapted for drawing and
dining rooms, theatres, and other artistically-fitted rooms.
We understand specimens may be inspected at the offices
of Messrs. Davis, in Newgate-street.
A RlTal ninminant. — The absence of orange rays in
the electric arc has made inventors turn to other sources of
light to procure a thoroughly satisfactory lighthouse illumi-
nant. The latest is by a German inventor, who drives
air through pumice-stone impregnated with benzene, and
then through fine magnesium powder, which is forced
upwards by the benzene gas through a nozzle. A light of
400,000 c.p. is said to be obtained. The apparatus goes
into a small space, and, if the claims are correct, the light
may form a powerful rival to the electric arc for coast
service. Whether any illuminant will ever be able to oust
the electric light is extremely doubtful, but there is
certainly a requirement to be fulfilled in the greater
piercing power needed in fogs, and the subject of the
proper treatment of the arc for this purpose is well worthy
the study of some of our theoretical experimentalists.
Eleotiio Light on the Battlefield. — A Oratz tele-
gram to Seuter on Tuesday says : " Last night a new experi-
ment of great interest was carried out here. The difficulty
of searching for the wounded on the night after a great
battle has been one which has long occupied the attention
of military reformers, and the Army Medical Service in
Austria has determined to try how far the electric light
may be utilised for this humane end. It has been found
that powerful search-lights with reflectors are very effective
on open ground, but in cases where the battle has raged
over a wide extent of country, or where the fighting has
occurred amid woods and brushwood, such luminants are
not of much use. Hence it was resolved to experiment
with the electric light in a new form. The men of the
Army Medical Service were sent out last night with
portable electrical lanterns, which were fed by accumulators
contained in their knapsacks. The experiment was fairly
successful, and it is likely to be repeated.''
Nelson. — A Local (Government Board enquiry was held
at the Nelson Town Hall on Tuesday with regard to an
application made by the Corporation for powers to borrow
£10,000 for the purpose of electric lighting. The town
clerk, in his statement, said the main object of the Gas
Committee in deciding to work an electric light installation
was to use up all the waste heaps from the furnaces of the
gas works. Alderman Hartley, the chairman of the Gras
Committee, said they proposed to work the electric light
scheme from the gas works. A 60-h.p. steam engine would
be used, and they would put down one 600 16-c.p. light
dynamo. The scheme provided for the laying down of
cables from the gas works, and the mains would be of
sufficient capacity to supply double the light now used.
The Council had already entered into an agreement with a
number of tradesmen for nearly 500 lights to be supplied
for three years. Mr. William Foster, the gas manager, said
the plans were suitable for the present requirements of
Nelson.
Omnibns UsThtinsr. — The electric light, among other
conquests, is gradually making its way for use in the
Ughting of omnibuses in London. We recently reported
the use of the Bristol pocket lamp for the inspectors on the
idon Greneral Omnibus Company's service. The lighting
of the 'buses themselves was not touched in that experi-
ment, but we learn that this question is now being dealt
with in a practical manner. The lighting of the omnibuses,
at any rate of the great lines, is in the hands of Mr. J.
Willing, jun., of 125, Strand — not the same firm, by-the-
bye, as the advertisement contractors. Recently after
trials of several systems, the lithanode cells of the Mining
and General Electric Company have been selected, and the
work of experimenting and fitting up several omnibuses
has been carried out by Mr. Willing, under the superin-
tendence of Mr. Thomas Hymns. Two or three 'buses are
already running continually fitted with the electric light,
and the company express themselves exceedingly pleased
with the result. The lamps have already proved so
successful, although as yet no special arrangements have
been made for charging and changing the batteries, that it
is expected the system will at once be largely extended.
Midland Railway In8tallatioii.~The directors of
the Midland Railway Company, in determining upon the
establishment of the large installation of electric light at
Derby recently mentioned, have been influenced mainly by
the desire to improve the hygienic conditions under which
large numbers of their staff have to work, frequently till
late hours in the night. Mr. W. Laugdon, who has the
electrical engineering department of the Midland Railway
under his care, informs us that they are laying down
lighting installations in the goods yards and warehouses
at Lawley -street, Birmingham; Hunslet, Leeds; and the
Wickeryard at Sheffield. They have akeady established
similar installations at the new goods dep6t at Worcester
Wharf, Birmingham, and at Somers Town, London, and
also at Bradford. At Bradford the lighting of the station and
hotel, as well as offices and refreshment-rooms, is entirely
effected by electrical energy. The hotel at St. Pancras, as
also the Adelphi Hotel at Liverpool, is also lighted
throughout in a similar manner. When the whole of the
arc lighting installations are in operation, which will
probably be the case towards the autumn of the present
year, the Midland Railway Company will have about 1,000
lights running. The Thomson-Houston system is that used
throughout for arc lighting work.
Electric Bicycles. — One of the questions an electrical
engineer is most troubled with amongst his non-technical
friends is, when may they expect to see electricity applied
to a bicycle or tricycle. Some little time ago Mr. Vaughan
Sherrin, of Ramsgate, tackled this problem ; and with a
primary battery of peculiar construction, which generated
its own oxygen in the solution, and earned the encomiums
of Prof. S. P. Thompson, he constructed a bicycle which
would, it was stated, run for 50 miles or so in nine hours
at a cost of eighteenpence. At a demonstration of this
battery in the City-road we had an opportunity of riding
in an electric bath chair, which wobbled its way somewhat
noisily up hill and down dale in a sedate and novel fashion.
Electric tricycles were promised at £30 complete, but we
have not seen them yet, though they may come. Mean-
while, another inventor, Mr. Graffiny, we see from a note
in a Folkestone paper, has busied himself with the same
fascinating problem, and has produced, so it is said, an
electric bicycle that can do the trip from Land's End to
John O'Groat's House without stopping to have its
batteries refilled. The weight of these when filled with
liquid is 44lb. ; including this apparatus for motive power,
the machine then weighs 1551b. The public would like to
see this electric bicycle at the next Stanley show. It is to
be hoped experience will not prove the problem still un-
solved. We see that the financial papers announce that a
small company is to be brought out with a capital of £3,000
for the manufacture of electric cycles.
THE ELECTRiCAL ENGINEER, MAY 20, 1892.
48«
Aberdeen. — Prof. Kennedy, who ww aeked by the Ou
Committee of the Aberdeen Town Council to report upon
tbe iatroduction of a system of electricity, viiited tbat city
lut Saturday, and inspected the areas under tbe Electric
Lighting Bill. He paid a visit also to the gas works and
other likely sites for tbe erection of installation apparatus
in connection with tbe proposed scheme, afterwards meeting
tbe Qaa Committee and having a general conversation with
them on tbe subject Bailie M'Kensie, convener, presided.
Prof. Kennedy, in the course of his remarks, said he was
distinctly of opioion that tbe Corporation should keep
the matter of supplying electricity in their own bands,
and tbat he had no doubt whatever that they could both
make and sell it at a profit, if desired ; but that as no
profit was desired by the Corporation, they should be able,
in bis opinion, to supply it at less than the maximum price
provided by the Bill, whichwas 9d. per unit. He further
stated that he bad little doubt the proprietors of the
principal shops would at once take tbe electric light, seeing
tbat it was much cleaner and purer than gas, if the installa-
tion were but once made. Eoughly, and without going
into detail, he believed the Corporation would be able
to supply electricity at a rate not more than twice tbe
cost of gas, and that, if a large quantity was taken,
it might be produced at a figure even less. He
stated tbat he was likely to recommend the low-tension
three-wire system, the same as proposed for Qlasgow,
the two cities being so much ^ike. Prof. Kennedy
answered a number of questions in tbe course of the
discussion, and it was arranged that ha should prepare and
send in an exhaustive report upon the whole subject,
including a statement as to the site be would recommend,
the system of distribution ha would propose, the area which
he suggests the Corporation should start with, and an
estimate of the cost of distribution.
Uiuioheater. — Mr. S. J. Smith, one of the inspectors
of tbe Local Government Board, held an enquiry on
Tuesday at Manchester into the application of the Town
Council to borrow tbe sura of £160,000 for the purposes of
electric lighting and £12,000 for providing a public
library for tbe Openshaw district. Sir John Harwood,
called upon to give evidence, said the Corporation had bad
the question of electric lighting under consideration for the
last 10 years at least. He and two other members of the
Corporation reported on the electric lighting of the Paris
Exhibition, and almost every year since then the Council
had looked at the matter to see if they considered tbe time
was ripe for an installation in Manchester. Nearly every
part of England in which electric lighting was going on
had been visited. In tbe year 1890 a provisional order
was obtained from the Board of Trade and confirmed by
Parliament. Since the provisional order was obtained
very great pains had been taken with the view of securing
that the best possible system should be adopted, advice
having been obtained from the most eminent electrical
engineers in the country. Dr. John Hopkinson had been
employed by tbe Corporation to carry out the work. He
himself thought that the money now applied for was little
enough, and that it would bave been better to borrow
£200,000. The site which had been secured for the
generating station was a ground in Dickenson-street, near
Portland-street, which had been occupied for many years
by the Paving Committee of the Corporation. The station
would be near its work, and the site was regarded as other-
wise suitable. The contracts which had been already let,
and others which would be let shortly, amounted to
£78,000. The Inspector : And tbat is the first instalment
only, I suppose. You will have to go on again when that
is spent t Sir John Harwood said that was so. Already
enquiries for the light had been received from persons
outside the compulsory area. Of course, they were not
seeking to make a profit out of the scheme in any way.
They were only seeking to develop the resources of the
city. There was no opposition to the application.
York. — A special meeting of the York City Council
was held on Tuesday (Alderman Sir Joseph Terry occupying
the chair) to receive and consider a report of the Streets
and Buildings Committee (acting as tbe Electric Lighting
Committee), recommending that the Council proceed to
exercise the powers conferred upon them by the York
Electric Lighting Order, 1890 ; that application be made to
the Local Crovernment Board for sanction to borrow
£16,000 for electric lighting purposes ; and that tenders be
invited for tbe execution of the work and the supply of
plant necessary. Tbe report recommended that the Council
undertake the electric lighting of the city, but that beforo
adopting any scheme for the electric lighting of the city the
Council assure themselves tbat it can be extended so as to
form a complete scheme, providing an installation capable of
eSectively lighting the whole area of the city, and, further,
that the electric supply station be erected on a suitable
site on tbe Fose Islands, the property of the Corporation.
Mr. H. V. Scott moved tbe reception of the report. Mr.
R. E. Crompton, whom the committee recommended
should be retained as electrical engineer to the Corpora-
tion during the execution of the works, stated, in
answer to questions, that Liverpool had paid a dividend
on the electric lighting for some years, of about 4 or
6 per cent. The St. James's Company, London, paid
10 per cent., and the Metropolitan Company bad paid 2
per cent. The best criterion for York was the case of
Bradford. That town had borrowed money, bad been
working for two years, paid the interest, and had a
balance to the good. It had been entirely managed by a
committee, who were so hopeful of success that they pro-
posed to extend the electric light over tbe whole town.
Tbe longer the light was used per day the cheaper would
be the rate. He was informed tbat tbe burning
hours of York and Bradford would be about the
same. The report having been received, Mr. Scott
then moved its adoption, and remarked that it was
idle for anybody to shut their eyes to the enormous
advantage of the electric light as an illuminant as com-
pared with gas. He would not give an opinion as to
whether high or low tension waa the best. The Council
would be under the Board of Trade, and they wouM see
that whatever system was adopted they would have such
safeguards as would render the system beneficial to the
mode of lighting. Mr. Purnell seconded the motion.
Alderman Coning moved that the report be referred back
to the committee for the purpose of getting information
as to the terms upon which contracting companies can
distribute the electric light to the citizens, and that no
decision be come to until such terms be reported to the
Council. Mr. Procter seconded the amendment, and
argued that as only 42 persons had promised to take the
light it was not fair to uddle the remainder of the citiEens
with the cost. At present electric lighting was in ite
infancy, and it was not for corporations to experiment
with the ratepayers' money. After considerable discussion
as to tbe advisability of allowing a private company to
undertake tbe ligbling of tbe city for a number of years,
Mr. Crompton said electricity can be sold as cheaply as
gas if produced on as large a scale, but that could not be
expected for some years. The amendment was then put
to the vote, when 8 voted for, 16 against, and 6 remained
neutral. The original motion adopting the report of the
committee was then carried by a large majority.
486
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAT 20, 1892.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
THE PILKINGTON-WHITE METER.
BY W. J. HAHHBR.
Of the makiDE of electrical meters there seemB to be no
end. Oae of the moat interesting types which has just
beea broaght to the notice of the public is a meter shown
at the present time at Stand 62 in the Crystal Palace
Electrical Exhibition. It is the invention of Messrs. H. M.
PilkinRton and R. S. White, of Brooklyn, U.S.A. These
gentlemen have been for years workinft in connection with
the meter departments of^ the various Edison companies in
America, and have themselves constructed a large number
of meters, of which the one referred to in this article is the
final result. It has been brought to the attention of the
principal electrical enKineers and companies in America,
and been very highly spoken of. It possesses the
advantages of simplicity in construction, economy
I first coat, and in ite operation, and compacbieas
and portability. It gives a reading direct in ampere-
hours, and can be sealed up a« demanded by the
Board of Trade, requiring attention but tmce a month ; ia
suitable for any currents, alternating or continuous ; intro-
duces no drop upon the line ; requires no electrical power
to operate it ; is not afi'ected by short circuits, and being
thoroughly encased in iron is ensured the freedom from
outeide inf uence ; it needs no temperature corrections, and
when in use upon continuous currents it may be reversed,
as frequently practised, without afi'ecting the reading. The
one shown at the Crystal Palace has a capacity of five
amperes, although they are made of any capacity desired,
one standard sise of cue being used for all capacities. Thie
meter has been patented in the United States, Canada,
Great Britain, Germany, France, and Belgium. It has already
been shown to a number of prominent electrical engineers
in this country and met with their approval. The inventors
have employed the simplest and best-known elemente in
Uilliona of cloclu in daily use bear their own
testimony to their reliability. A gravity ammeter con-
structed upon a solenoid principle, with a very fine core of
soft iron, has been extensively used, especially in the United
States, and its simplicity and efficiency are so well known
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAT 20, 1892.
487
aa to need no further ezplsnation here, and the dm of the
inventori of this meter has been to form a reliable
mechaniciU connection between these elements with as little
complication as possible.
In the accompanyinf; illustrations Fig. 1 abowa a front
view of the mechanism, and Fig. 2 a aide view, whilst
Figa. 3 and 4 show the meter as it actually appears. A
40-dajr clock in a dust-proof case drives by gear, Q, and
pinion, F, the disc, E, which carriea curved pins and D,
which disc is mounted on a phosphor bronze shaft centred
at M and M', Fig. 2. At B is an ammeter solenoid ; swing-
ing from centres A is iU light soft iron core, carrying at C
a fixed bracket, at the outer end of which is freely pivoted
a tight lever. This lever is forked at the upper end to
embrace the steady pin, K, and has a pawl, J, engaging the
ratchet wheel, I, of a dial train. The action is aa follows :
The movement is wound by removable crank key, H, and
for 40 days tuina disc £ around at the rate of five turns an
hour. In this disc is sat a pin for each half ampere of the
meter's capacity, making in this case 10 pins. These are
of various lengths, corresponding to the calibration of the
instrument When, say, half an ampere is passing on the
coil, B, the ammeter moves md carriea the lever to a posi-
tion where it will be atnick by the first pin, D, Fig. 2, once
of Woodfield Works, Westboume Park. The illustration
belongs to the series of articles by Mr. R W. Weeks on
the continuous-current dynamos at the Palace. The par-
ticulars and sizes are referred to on page 366, April 16th.
The exhibit of Httssra. Lainff, WliartOD, and Down,
in the Entertainment Court, is one which attracts consider-
able attention. In the first place, it is self-contained,
having a largo space to itself, comprising a complete set of
electric lighting apparatus — engine, dynamos, and motors,
lamps and heating utensils— and further, being coupled
with distinctly one of the most artistic shows of electric
fittings — tables arranged by Messrs. Phillips, the glass and
porcelain ware decorators, of Ozford-stieet. Besides this
they have some nugnificent specimens of their own pro-
duction of chandeliers lighted and suspended from the
ceiling, and two large cases filled with luxurious examples
of electric light fittings, as used by Messrs. Laing, Wharton,
and Down themselves in their many installations for houses
in the West-end.
The power for supplying current to these lamps is
obtained from a fine specimen of the Otto gas engine, high-
speed, of nine nominal horse-power. This drives by link
belting one of the iron-clad dynamos of a make well known
to electrical engineers who visited Frankfort, which Messrs.
in every revolution of disc E. For every additional half-
ampere the arm will move over furUier, and another pin
will come into action, until at five amperes the full number
come into play. It will be readily seen that the lever, by
being pivoted on bracket, C, and guided at centre, K, forms
an integral part of the ammeter core, at the same time
possessing its own plane of rotation at right angles
to the latter. Therefore, when the pin D, moving to
the left, carries the lower end of the lever in the
same direction, the upper end, by pawl, J, advances the
ratched wheel, I, a distance of one tooth, then D releases
the lever and it drops by gravity into position to engage
the next pin. Thus, at five amperes, the lever will transmit
to the wheel 10 impulses per revolution of disc, or GO per
hour. This wheel has 100 teeth, and is geared even with
the unit's dial, so 50 impulses mean half a revolution of
unit's dial, or five ampere-hours. The lever being retained
only a few seconds by each pin, is always ready to take up
a new position as the load la varied. Supposing the load
to drop to one ampere the ammeter falls back, anil two pins
will only engage the lever, recording thereby 10 teeth in an
hour, or one ampere per hour.
The accompanying illustration shows the Ooolden
dynamo, manufactured by Mesire. W. T. Goolden and Ca,
Laing, Wharton, and Down use in their installations and have
christened the " Special " dynamo. The running of the gas
engine on full load is very steady, and the even motion
of the heavy link belt is a pleasure to the eyes of an
engineer in comparison to some of the others. The
dynamo gives 120 amperes at 100 volts, though, as a
rule, 90 amperes is the output at the Exhibitian. Tliia
supplies the lamps in the court and part of the
electroliers, and it ia interesting to note that all the
lamps are 8 c.p., showing the auitability of this siae of
lamp when properly installed for indoor illumination.
Loosing round amongst the fittings we see a handsome
electrolier which once belonged to the Princess of Wales
and was hung in Marlborough House, but which was
exchanged when the decorations were altered. Another
richly-wrought and chased electrolier hung opposite it is a
reproduction of one of the ormolu chandeliers used by the
Queen at Windsor Castle — a massive and oinate pendant
that welt accords with the warm glow of the light. Another
pendant, glittering with a double radiance, is a cut-glass
electrolierfitted with some scores of lamps, whose lights shine
and sparkle with prismatic colours amongst the glass. This
pendant alone cost over 200 guineas, and would make
a fine ball-room centre-piece. In one comer is a wrought-
iron fanciful pendant, suitable for a large ancestral hall,
fitted with deeply cut-glass reflector ; and other brackets of
488
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 20, 1892.
aluminintn and copper are epecimens of a atyle of fitting
which the firm have made a speciality. A type of etandard
fint introduced, wo believe, by them, is the employment
of roey-tinted Bea-ehelU aa ahade for the incandeacent
globe. The ahell is neatly mounted on pivota, and
by a aimple movement can be made to give either
a eoft general light or a more brilliant direct light
for reading, or, again, an upward refiected light for
a picture. Speaking of picture lamps, we ought to
refer to a aimple arrangement for a gallery or picture
which Meaers. Laing, Wharton, and Down use in the
shape of a. polishod ahell of nickel, iuat the eize of an ordi-
nary lamp, which half encirclea the lamp closely, and throws
a brilliant light on the picture or engraving. Several of
these are shown, and give a very good effect with aimple
and unobtmaive lamp brackets, Another large electrolier
in the opposite comer gives a soft opalescent light from
eight or ten dropping Uunpe hung in globes of iridescent
cloth. Two contacts, each with three fine needle points,
are pierced through the cloth, making good contaot to the
set of fairy-lampe hidden in a basket of flowers as decora-
tion to the dining table.
The show-cases contain many examples of the decorative
use of fancy silk ahadea for the electric light, and some quite
exquisite colour harmoniea for drawing-room and boudoir
are the result. A ceiling pendant in which a aiik shade ia
used to go close to the ceiling with the lamps inside, soften-
ing the light of the lamps, ia very succeaaful, and variotu
adaptations of oil standards richly wrought and fitted with
electric holders, together with art vases mounted for the
same purpoee, are delightful variations from the ordinary
fittings. Many of these are fitted with imitation candles in
a simple way : two stout wires project npwarda and bear
on the top a small Edison screw socket, over this is slipped
a white sleeve (the imitation candle), and the little flame-
like frosted tamp is then screwed on toe top, making a aimple
Whuton, tod Down'! StMlght Ship Hi
glass, and still another illustrates the now fashionable
method of using imitation candles with elongated and
twisted lamps as the candle flames. This incovation, again,
we believe, was first due to the initiative of this firm.
A noticeable lamp, which would evidently well suit a
lai^e mansion ball, ia made of one of the ancient stage
coach lamps, delicately wrought and furbished as was the
wont in days of yore; this has been filled with bevelled plate
glass and backed with mirrors, and the ationg lamp within
casts a light which ia a peculiar mixture of the new and
the quaint. Other examples of the same combination, but
more beautiful, are some richiy-chased flamboyant brackets
of the Old French style. These, denuded of their ancient
lights, the candles, are fitted with delicate glass shades and
electric tamps, and become a fit appurtenance for the palace
of a queen. Connected to one lamp a little further on we
see a cigar-lighter, and to another a flat-iron, heated elec-
trically. For table decorations a special provision tias
been made : two tubes full of parallel wires are let flush
into the table, and can be covered with the damaak table-
and easy junction. A movable bracket for use od a piano
ia of a type much appreciated by those muaicians who
are happy enough to have the electric Ught inatallod.
A heavy weight at one end acts as a kind of base to keep
the fitting in place. This weight ia covered with an
artistic braas exterior, and the bracket projecting there-
from furnished with a delicate ailk sliade, and this can be
placed at any convenient position on the piano or the
mantelpiece, connected to a wall socket by a flexible wire.
A fine pair of bronzes, representing Mercury and Diana
holding electric lights, are also shown, and in the aide office,
which is tastefully decorated with old engravings, a cut-
glass pendant aheda an evenly-distributed light In this
office is fitted a set of floss improved telephones, which the
firm use when any of their inatatlations are required to be
Bupplied with telephones. An amusing set of bell-push
contacts is shown close by, conaisting of a number of quaint
and curiously-oarved ivory grotesque faces, the tongues
being formeci of small projections of ivory dyed red, which
act aa the pushes—" their worda tinkle aa do silvem haUa."
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 20, 1892.
489
An exhibit important to army men is that of the Bruce
signalling balloon b, irhich are exhibited by Laiogi
Wharton, and Down. A small balloon sent up to the
necesaary height has within it one or more electric lamps,
which can be flashed od the Morse code by a switch
suitably arranged, and connected thereto by wires running
up the cord. Sets of sbiplighting fittings are also shown,
and a large strongly-mounted lantern is constructed for use
in fishing — three or four strong lights can be turned on
alter the lantern is lowered into the sea, and experiments
which have been made, and reported upon by us at various
times, have tended to show that considerably larger catchesof
fish can be taken by the use of such a light as an attraction.
It may be remembered that some few months ago we
described a penuy-in-the-slot arrangement for supplying
half-an-hour's electric light to travellerB in the railway trains.
This arrangement is exhibited at Messrs. Laing, Wharton,
and Down's stand in action as osed on some of tHe railways.
be utilised, it is very necessary, of course, to regulate the
resultant pressure from the dynamo in charging accamu-
tators. Messrs. Laing, Wharton, and Down exhibit an
apparatus which they term the " K " voltage regulator. A
set of plate contacts leading to resistances din into a vessel
of mercury. The plates are of varying lengtn, and the bar
curying them is raised or lowered by means of a solenoidal
magnet actuated by the main current. The bar rises or
falls as the speed and the pressure varies, cutting in or out
the resistances. Tbis simple arrangement is found to work
admirably for speeds of the prime motor, varying from
800 up to 1,300 revolutions per minute. In the exhibit at
the Palace this is shown connected to a motor, which drives
a dynamo for supplying light to the tables and electroliers.
At the front of the stand, Messrs. Laing, Wharton, and
Down show dynamos and motors in working. A 30-h.p.
iron-clad motor is a very serviceable piece of machinery
incapable of injury from ordinary accidents. It is interest-
The light comes on automatically upon pushing the coin into
the ili^ and can be turned off wnen done with, if desired, by
pressing a button. Some interesting relics of early days
are shown in two exhibits — one of these consists of two of
the original Swan lamps, numbered 9 and 96 respectively,
kindly lent by Lord Salisbury for the exhibition. They
have been in use at Hatfield for over four years. The
other relic shows a comparison between the methods of
wiremen in the early days and now. One board is labelled
" How not to do it, and is covered with specimens of ex-
cruciatingly bad joints of cables and wires, those actually
used and cut out of installations of the date of 1880
or so. The other board, labelled " How to do it," shows,
of course, the latest practice in beautifully neat joints.
Various specimens of modern quick-break switches are
shown as used by the firm in installations, such as for houses
in Carl ton House- terrace and various large country mansions,
photographs of the interiors of these honses being also
shown.
For country installations where wind or water power can
nd Snglne uid ■' Special" Djrnima. tqiiiOa Light*.
ing to remark that the external magnetic field of these
machines is extremely low — hardly perceptible, in fact.
Measurements hare been recently taken of the external
stray field of all the various types of dynamos in the Exhibi-
tion, and a paper is to be shortly read, we understand, before
the Society of Arts upon this topic. The stray field from
the iron-dad dynamos mentioned was found less than any
other type tested ; less, in fact, than seven C.G.S. units at
Sin. from the machine, and, therefore, hardly perceptible,
and certainly free from objection on account of injury
to watches, besides being an additional causa of high
efficiency. A combined shiplighting plant with the same
type of machine is exhibited in action. The engine is a
Robey vertical engine, specially adapted for electric light,
coupled on the same bed plate to the dynamo. The size
shown will supply 60 lamps of 16 c p. run direct. Other
sizes, of course, are made. A large four-pole iron-clad
dynamo for 1,600 lights of 8 c.p. is also shown, driven
by a motor by belting. The oiling arrangements in
these are found to work with great satisfMtion,
490
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 20, 1892.
Two loose rings of gnDmatal an placed over grooves in the
bearings, the whole being cavered in by the metal casing,
forming a box, which is partly filled with oil The rotation
of the rings keeps the lubrication aotomatically constant,
and attention is only required once a week. Outside the
Entertainment Court, but close by, is another and larger
ship set of coupled en^ne and dynamo, with a 40-h.p.
Robey compound engine, driving, at 300 revolutions, a
dynamo for 400 lights of 8 c.p. This supplies some of the
electroliers, and the fountain lights in the centre of the
gallery, which we have ^ready described in a previous
number. It also drives the motors using the regulating
apparatus, and the large dynamo which is used as a motor.
Altogether it must be acknowledged that Messrs. Lai ng,
Wharton, and Down have a very interesting and compre-
hensive exhibit.
INSTITUTION OF CIVIL ENGINEERS.
At the ordinary meeting on Tuesday, the 10th of
May, Mr. Berkley, president, being in the chair, the paper
read was on " The Distribution and Measurement of
Illumination," by Mr. Alex. P. Trotter, B.A., A.M.I.C.E.
This paper was divided into three sections. The first
dealt with geometrical principles ; the second with photo-
meters ; and the third with the results of meaBurement«
made in the streets and public buildings in London.
When light falls upon a surface, that surface is said to be
illuminated. Illumination consists of two factors — candle-
power and distance. The carcel-meter was proposed in
1862 as a unit of illumination. Mr. Preece showed that
this was equal to a standard candle at 13'7in., and
woposed the name " Lux " for the English equivalent.
The author has taken the candle-foot as a practical unit.
The illumination of a horizontal plane at any point
varies as the cube of the cosine of the angle of inciaence
of a ray of light falling on that point, when the candle-
power and the height of the lamp are constant. Curves
were given showing this distribution graphically ; illumina-
tion beiijg represented as ordinates, and distances from the
source of light as abscisse. The distribution of the total
light OD a surface rsriea as the solid angle subtended by
that surface at the source of light The usefulness of a
white reflector depends on the solid angle which it subtends,
and not upon its absolute dimensions. The resultant
illumination, due to a number of lamps spaced at distances
apart, equal to once, twice, three times, and six times their
height from the ground, was shown by a number of
curves. The distribution of the light of a continuous-
current arc lamp is peculiar. For angles of incidence
greaUr than 50deg. it varies as the fourth power of the
cube of the cosine of the angle of incidence. Light falling
in a more vertical direction is largely reduced by the
shadow of the negative carbon.
The object of street lighting is twofold — to mark oat the
street with beacons, and to provide illumination. Illumi-
nation begins to be useful when it is comparable with
moonlight. Moonlight in this country rarely exceeds one
thirty sixth of a candle-foot, that ie, a candle at 6ft. ; it is
generally between one-sixtieth to one-hundreth of a
candle-foot. The distribution of illumination in more
general cases was treated geometrically ; the variation of
illumination due to the varying height of a lamp was
discussed, and it was shown that there was no particular
virtue in the angle of incidence, the tangent of which
is J2. Calculated contour curves of equal illumination
due to two lights at a distance apart equal to three times
their height, and to three lights arranged in a triangle, at
a distance apart equal to one-and-a-half times their height,
were given, together with curves of illumination due to arc
lights spaced in a similar manner. The use of diagrams to
which the author gave the name of characteristic curves
was explained. In several respects these resembled steam-
engine diagrams. The co-ordinates were candle-power and
area ; the area of the diagram was a measure of total light,
or power in an optical form. The maximum and minimum
illuminations in any example could be seen at a glance,
and the shape of the curve showed the quality or regularity
of the distribution. Characteristics for a square and for a
circular area illuminated by a single light, and for several
arrangements of uniformly spaced lights, were given.
The second section on photometry alluded to the different
attempts which have been made to supplant photometers
bv thermopiles, radiometers, and photographic methods.
The complication of gas-testing apparatus was contrasted
with the simple forms of true photometers, such as those
of Bunsen, Rumford, and Foucault. A photometer was
described, in which a shadow was thrown by a mirror upon
a screen and a reflected beam of light was superposed upon
the shadow; the whole screen was of a uniform tone when a
balance was effected. In a direct-reading photometer, a rod
was placed nearly in the plane of the two lights to be
compared. Two shadows were thrown on a screen, and
the position at which the two shadows were of the same
tone could be read off on a scale. The illumination photo-
meters of Weber and Mascart were briefly described.
Mr. Preecu's photometer of 1883 depended on the measure-
ment of the current of a small glow lamp. The sixth
power of the current was approximately proi>ortional to
the candle-power. The current was adjusted by resistances.
The details of this photometer were discussed, and Captain
Abney's method of rapid oscillations in photometric measure-
ment was described. Varioua errors were introduced in this
use of a BuDsen screen and by the colour of the electric
lamp at low candle-power. In a photometer designed by
the author, in conjunction with Mr. Preece, in 1884, a glow
lamp was made to approach or to recede from a Bunsen
screen. The motion was given by a lever rolling on a cam
in such a manner that the illumination could be read
upon a uniformly divided scale. A number of modifications
of this [ihotometer were tried during the past winter,
and resulted in the construction of an illumination photo-
meter, with which a large number of measurements had
been made. Two glow lamps, | c.p. and j c.p., were
mounted in a long blackened box. Either or both could be
used at once. Four lithanode cells supplied the current.
A reflecting screen, covered with white palter, threw the
light upwards through a star-shaped hole in a horizontal
screen of cardboard. The reflecting screen was mounted
00 hinges and could be wound up by a fine chain, finally
folding quite out of the light. The chain was wound upon
a cam, and a hand or pointer was mounted on the axis of
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 20, 1892.
491
this cam. The cam was so shaped that a nearly uniformly
divided scale was obtained. The scale was graduated
empirically. Readings were taken when the illumination
of the horizontal cardboard screen appeared to be identical
with the illumination of the movable reflecting screen,
visible through the star-shaped hole. The range of this
photometer is from 2*5 to'OOl candle-feet.
Measurements were made in the South Kensington
Museum, in which illumination of about half a candle-
foot up to 3^ candle-feet were recorded. In Cannon-street
Station the minimum was *025 candle-foot, and the maximum
'4 candle-foot. In Charing Cross Station the minimum was
'05, and the maximum 5. Several sets of measurements
were made in the City. The result of systematic measure-
ment of part of Queen Victoria-street was given in contour
lines of equal illumination. The maximum in an exceptional
case was 1*1, ordinary maximum '3, minimum '025. Con-
tour lines were constructed from a considerable number
of measurements in Whitehall. The illumination in Great
Greorge-street, Westminster, was also measured. The maxi-
mum was '9, and the minimum *005. The author was assisted
in the street measurements by Mr. W. Winny and by
Messrs. J. liCggat, L. E. Pierce, and W. 0. Wallace,
students at Finsbury Technical College. Characteristic
curves were drawn from these observations, and enabled
the degree and the quality of the lighting to be compared.
The paper was accompanied by an appendix, containing
tables of the value of a bougie-meter in candle-power at
different distances, values of cos.^ d, and other powers of
the cosine.
MR. PREECE ON THE ELECTRIC LIGHT.
Mr. W. H. Preece, F.B.S., read an interesting paper on
Monday evening at the rooms of the Royal Institute of
British Architects on " The Art of Internal Illumination
of Buildings by Electricity." Mr. J. Macvicar Anderson,
president of the institute, was in the chair.
Mr. Preece said that the art of the internal illumination
of buildings was still in its infancy, and no one could pre-
dict what its future developments would be. Electricity
was already rendering theatres bearable and houses healthier,
while the architect was brought face to fact with a new art,
in which the aid of the electrician was required to solve
some of the difficulties that confronted him. History was
silent as to the origin of tallow, pitch, wax, and oil, but
gas as an illuminant came in, as they all knew, with the
present century. From the earliest days history, whether
culled from paintings or writings, informed us that lights
had been but dim and crude until the middle of the present
century. Light, by whatever means generated, followed
the same laws, and was due to the rapid rhythmic undula-
tions of the medium, called ether, which filled all space.
Wherever there was light there was heat, and the hope of
the philosopher to supply light without any heat at all was
at present but a dream. Light could not be produced
without heat, and the higher the temperature the
brighter the light. Colour varied with the rate of
vibration of the ether, while changes of colour were
due to the changes of wave-motion of the ether.
Light might indeed become so intense that all sense
of colour was lost, and very bright illumination caused all
colours to approach whiteness. If light emanated from a
point, its intensity diminished in proportion with the
square of the distance. The candle was taken in this
country as the standard source of light, and the bright
surface produced by it at a distance of 1ft. was the standard
illumination by which to measure the amount of light dis-
tributed by any other means. This standard Mr. Preece
called a " lux." The great problem for solution was so to
diffuse light throughout a room that it should be distributed
uniformly over the working surfaces with an intensity of a
lux. Sixteen-candle glow lamps suspended 8ft. above the
floor and fixed in 8ft. squares effected this purpose very
efficiently, and groups of four such lamps fixed 16ft.*high pro-
duced a similar result. The light a lamp gave was due to the
expenditure of energy in its carbon filament; an electric cur-
rent was driven through this filament by electric pressure, its
resistance was overcome, it was intensely heated by the
proceeding, and the result was pure unadulterated light
The energy expended per second by an ampere (the
standard current), driven by a volt (the standard pressure)
was called a watt. A 16-candle glow lamp took 64 watts,
which, assuming the lamps to be fixed 8ft. high, meant
that one watt per square foot of surface was required to
secure ample illumination from lamps so fixed. Therefore,
in desi&^ning the normal illumination of rooms, Mr. Preece
took the floor area in square feet and divided it by 64,
which gave the number of 16-c.p. lamps required, fixed
8ft. high, and these were increasea or diminished accordins
to the purposes of the room, its form and height, and
other conditions. The adaptability of the eye to nearly
every degree of light was very great, and it was almost
impossible for it to judge accurately of the amount of
light present. But it was not as a mere source of light
that the glow lamp was superior to the gas burner. The
former could be put anywhere and used without the
adventitious aid of match or fire. It did not vitiate
or unnecessarily warm the air, and it simplified the problem
of ventilation, while at the same time it lent itself, above
all, to the aesthetic harmony of furniture and decorations.
Electric light was, however, not always absolutely safe ;
security was to be obtained only by good design, periect
materials, first-class workmanship, and rigid inspection.
Imperfect materials erected by cheap contractors
led to many disasters. On the other hand, it was
stated that no fire had occurred in buildings fitted
up under the rules and regulations, and inspected by
the officers of the insurance companies in this country. In
the lecturer's opinion everything ought, as much as possible,
to be kept in view, and the conductors ought not to be
hidden under wainscots or floors, or above ceilings. The
glow lamp, excited by three watts per candle, was at present
the most perfect source of domestic light, and when the
patent expired, in a year or two, would be obtainable at
one-third of the present price. It was scarcely fair to say
all light should come from the side of a room, according to
the taste of Lord Beaconsfield, as expressed in '* Lothair,"
when describing the lighting of Belmont. The House of Com-
mons was one of the best lighted chambers in London, and was
lighted from the roof, a false glass ceiling excluding the
heat and glare, and admitting only the light. What was
wanted was to avoid the glare of the incandescent filament
in the eyes, and to prevent the lamp from being too
obtrusive; it could be shaded from the eye without its
effectiveness being destroyed, and without the flow of light
being obstructed or its quality being deteriorated. Judging
from the Crystal Palace Exhibition, at which, however,
several leading firms had not exhibited, Mr. Preece thought
that the electric light fitter had not yet seized upon the
spirit of the age — which was the rule of science over
mere conventional aetheticism. Two exhibits at the Crystal
Palace, however, especially deserved inspection. The
one was a Tudor ribbed ceiling, erected by Messrs.
Allen and Mannooch, who had applied glow lamps to
the moulded intersecting pendants in such a way that
the feeling of the artist was maintained by day, and
was rather intensified, and not marred, by the artificial
illuminant at night. The other was a bold attempt of
Messrs Bashleigh Phipps and Dawson to design in
ironwork the whole of the fittings of a dining-room,
so that they should, in combination, convey an idea.
The artist (Mr. Reynolds) had attempted to symbolise
the solar system, the centre light over the table re-
presenting the sun, and the brackets on the walls the
planets. A survey of the Royal Academy pictures, he
thought, afforded instructive study. There were many
interiors, but few into which artificial light had been intro-
duced. Having described several pictures in which
artificial light had been introduced with more or less
successful results, Mr. Preece, in conclusion, expressed his
belief that science was advancing with giant strides.
Science had subdued nature so as to bring it within the
compass of the human intellect, and art must follow the
knowledge thus acquired. These two being the chief
instruments of modern civilisation, the architect and
engineer must work hand in hand.
A cordial vote of thanks was passed to Mr. Preece for
his interesting paper, and a discussion followed. — Times,
49S
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 20, 1892.
THE
ELECTRICAL ENGINEER.
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Price Threepence ; Post Free, Threepence Halfpenny.
Editorial and PubUshinsr Offices :
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Note« 481
The Crystal Palace Exhibi-
tion 486
Institation of Civil Engi-
neers 490
Mr. Preece on the Electric
Light 491
Work in View 492
Mr. Preece at the British
Architects 493
Experiments with Alternate
durrents of High Poten-
tial and High Frequency 496
Dinner to Prof. Ayrton 493
Bradley's Multiphase Patents 494
On the Cause of the Changes
of Electromotive Force in
Secondary Batteries 499
Dundee Electric Lighting... 502
Companies' Meetings 503
New Companies Registered 503
Business Notes 504
Provisional Patents, 1892 ... 504
Specifications Published ... 504
Companies' Stock and Share
List 504
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WORK IN VIEW.
There is no doubt but that the Crystal Palace
Exhibition has given a fillip to work which has long
been hatching, and hurried on schemes that were
slumbering. Bumours are rife also that within the
next few days another company will be launched for
the purpose of carrying out the provisional orders of
Islington and Camberwell. The company will have
a capital of a quarter of a million, in five-pound
shares. Keference to the legal proceedings which
have just terminated will show that this proposed
company has cleared its decks of " founders' shares."
In the abstract, founders' shares may be made
palatable, but in the majority of cases they are
merely methods of putting the unearned incre-
ment into the pockets of harpies. Over and over
again have we heard moneyed men decidedly
refuse to invest one penny in companies where
founders' shares appeared — and we think very wisely
refused. A glance at the money columns of any
financial paper will show that the quotations for
founders' shares are out of all proportion to the
quotations for ordinary shares. It is all very well to
point out that ordinary shares participate in the
profits up to a certain point before the founders'
shares are allowed to participate, but after that,
who gets the pull? Not the people who find
the money, but the people who control what
we have termed their unearned increment. We
therefore congratulate the Islington and General
Electric Supply Company (if that is to be their name)
upon having rid themselves of all incubus. Before
considering the prospects of such a company, it may
be worth while to make an inference from the names
of the directors, and the action with regard to
founders' shares. The aim is evidently real sound
work. The directors are men of keen business
instincts and of great influence. This will be
granted without demur if, as we expect, the
board will include such nfeimes as Sir F. A. Abel,
Ernest W. Barnard, Major-General Arthur Ellis,
Sir F. Eichard Pollock, and Mr. B. W. Wallace,
aided in their sphere of operations by Messrs. Kapp,
Kennedy, and Cooper. It would be difficult to name
a stronger combination than this. No doubt, when
the prospectus is issued, it will give the public an
idea of the prospects of the company from the stand-
point of a preliminary canvass of the district or
districts in which it is proposed to erect stations.
We are under an impression that Messrs. J. E. H.
Gordon and Co. are the contractors to the company,
and the public have an excellent opportunity of seeing
an installation erected under their auspices at
Sydenham-hill — a pretty complete description of
which has appeared, with illustrations, in our
columns. The experience with regard to central
station work has for some years been accumulating,
till at the present moment, notwithstanding all con-
tention to the contrary, it may safely be predicted
that properly designed, properly carried out, and in
the right position, central station work will un-
doubtedly pay. The investment under these
conditions is an exceedingly safe one. The
consumption of electrical energy is and must be
an increasing one. Every house built, every house
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 20, 189^.
493
wired, means accelleration of development. Some
shopkeepers may argue against the new illu-
minant, may fight against its introduction, but
their efforts will be in vain. Let but one shop
in a street install the light, and the others must
gradually follow. Why ? Not because the weekly,
monthly, or quarterly bill will be less than the bill
for gas, but because — and there is absolutely no doubt
of this — the total management expenses will be less
where the electric light is used than where gas is
used. In many cases considerable sums will be
saved by goods not being damaged, heat and noxious
fumes will be absent, the health of the employes will
be better, redecoration will be less frequent. More
work will be done, and more easily done, in a given
time with the one illuminant than with the other.
All these and a hundred other cogent reasons can
be urged in favour of electricity. But investors are
not usually imbued with a wild desire to follow the
impulse of reason ; they ask, Has such a scheme
been previously tried, and with what results?
Well, scores of schemes have been tried, with all
manner of results. The history of each scheme is
necessary in order to understand the why of the
result. It would be easy to tell the why of a
failure, but the telling would land us in the law
courts for libel. You must not tell the truth when
somebody's pocket will suffer by it. Briefly, then,
failure is too often writ because the principle adopted
is "self" and*' pelf," or, rather, "pelf for self."
Take, however, an example where nothing of this
kind can exist, and yet where a cheese-paring
economy can hardly exist. We refer to Bradford.
Here a central station, erected and equipped under
the auspices of the Corporation, has, selling its energy
at sixpence per unft, arrived at such a pitch of
success that it has reduced the price to fivepence per
unit. The Pall Mall Company, which has a con-
centrated area for working, but it is said not much
more concentrated, if any, than Islington, may
almost be termed a bonanza. The Kensington Com-
pany, working directly under the supervision of Mr.
Crompton, gives an admirable example of how to
do it. The prospects of the Westminster Company,
again, may well be investigated. Mr. Wallace, one
of the directors of the Islington Company, is similarly
connected with Kensington and Westminster, and
thus, if experience is worth aught, should be suffi-
ciently experienced to guide the new company to
success. We thus hope to chronicle within the next
few days the launching of this company upon a
sound basis, and the commencement of the work
upon two or three more central stations within
the metropolitan area. So much has been said
about the forthcoming metropolitan work that at
present we can do no more than direct attention to
Dundee, Portsmouth, Hanley, Derby, Cheltenham,
Dover, Canterbury, Nottingham, Hidl, and a score
or so of towns where electric lighting schemes are in
a more or less advanced state of adoption.
MR. PREECE AT THE BRITISH ARCHITECTS.
The electrical industry owes much to Mr. Preece,
who, perhaps more than any other individual,
has expounded and popularised the information con-
cerning electric lighting to public audiences. As we
have pointed out many times, architects have, in the
ordinary course of their profession, to adapt their
designs to meet the progress of scientific applica-
tions. With the electric Ught a design may be more
ornate, for it will be less liable to deteriorate. The
materials, too, used with the electric light may
differ considerably from those which would be applic-
able if gas or any other artificial illuminant were
used. The architect, again, in his design has
considerable power in so arranging his materials as
to facilitate the safe wiring of buildings. It is,
therefore, of considerable importance that architects
should be, as far as possible, educated as to the
capabilities of the electric light. Mr. Preece has
done much in this direction, and his latest paper
dwells particularly upon what may be termed the
physical properties of the electric light and its
illuminating power, as well 843 upon its applicability
to decorative purposes, and the means whereby it
could be made an extremely safe illuminant. The
full text of this lecture will, we understand, be given
in the society's Transactions ; meanwhile an excel-
lent abstract was given in the Times of May 18,
which we produce elsewhere.
DINNER TO PROF. AYRTON.
On Friday evening last a complimentary dinner was
given to Prof. Ayrton, F.B.S., at the Holborn Restaurant
by 21 of his former students, who are now well known in
the electrical profession. Mr. W. B. Esson occupied the
chair, and amongst the guests present were Mr. W. H.
Preece, F.R.S., Prof. Thompson, F.R.S., Prof. Perry,
F.R.S., Mr. F. H. Webb, and Mr. James Swinburne.
After partaking of an excellent dinner, and when the
toast of " The Queen " had been honoured, Mr. Albion T.
Snell proposed " The Colleges of the City and Guilds of
London Institute,'' coupling with the toast the names of
Profs. Thompson and Perry, both of whom replied in
suitable terms. Prof. Thompson was, he said, carrying on
the work at Finsbury which Prof. Ayrton had so well
begun before his advent, while Prof. Perry claimed to be
a student of Prof. Ayrton just as much as any of the
subscribers present, inasmuch as he had been a deal of
trouble to bim (Prof. Ayrton) and bad been well instructed
and well bullied by him into the bargain.
The Chairman (Mr. W. B. Esson) next rose to propose
the toast of the evening, ** The health of Prof. Ayrton."
He observed that in their student days most of them had
likely been toasted by the professor in a somewhat different
way. However, the position was now reversed, as they were
that night toasting the professor. After referring to the
progress made in recent vears, both in electric lighting
and electric transmission of power, he said that all along
the plane of development in both branches could be traced
the name of Ayrton, and pointed out that notwithstanding
the number and value of the professor's contributions to
electrical engineering, his researches in the domain of
physics had not been less valuable or less appreciated. This
had been recognised by his election as a fellow of the Royal
Society and as president of the Physical Society. But be
was also president of the Institution of Electrical Engineers,
and so combined the theoretical with the practical. He
was not content with high and dry physics, but remained
always in touch with the world of practice, where his
career began. That was the real secret of Prof. Ayrton's
success as a teacher of technology, and while professors of
academic seats of learning might believe that the function
of a university was to teach useless knowledge, Prof.
Ayrton believed that, at any rate, the function of the
494
THE ELECTRICAL EJNGINEER, MAY 20, 1892
technical college was to teach the knowledge of
most worth, and which would best enable a man to
cut his way in the world. After referring to the
evanescent character of dinners, he observed that
his past students did not wish Prof. Ayrton to forget
all about their pleasant party, so they had put the expres-
sion of their regards into a more tangible and permanent
form by getting it put in black and white. Mr. Esson
then, in the name of the students, handed to Prof. Ayrton
an illuminated testimonial, framed in gilt oak, and bearing
the names of Messrs. L. 6. Atkinson, Frank Bailey, H. J.
Dowsing, W. B. Esson, W. Greipel, Reg. J. Jones, W. M.
Mordey, Fras. Mudford, Frank Nalder, I. Probert, A.
Beckenzaun, F. M. Rogers, Henry M. Sayers, W. B. Sayers,
R Percy Sellon, A. T. Snell, W. E. Sumpner, Ernest B.
Yignoles, R. Mullineux Walmsley, H. D. Wilkinson, and
Arthur Wright. He asked them to drink to the professor's
long life, perfect health, and full success.
Prof. Atrton, in responding, said he felt deeply grateful
for the very kind and appreciative way in which his
labours had been referred to, and thanked them most
sincerely for the testimonial they bad kindly presented
to him. He next dwelt upon the rapid advance made in
recent years in popular views on technical education, an
advance our forefathers never dreamed of. The London
Ck)untv Council voted £30,000 per annum for the teaching
of science and industry, but there was something like a
million pounds still available, if a band of idealists were to
come forward and endeavour to secure a portion of this
princely sum. Prof. Ayrton advocated the establishment
of a great laboratory of physical research, where all who
entered would be students in the highest sense of the word.
There would be no examinations, but all would work for
the general advancement of knowledge for the good of the
community. In conclusion, he alluded in praiseworthy
terms to his assistant and associate, Mr. Mather.
Mr. Atkinson then proposed the toast of *' The Institu-
tion of Electrical Engineers,*' to which Mr. F. H. Webb,
the secretary, replied. Mr. Reg. J. Jones next proposed
" The Health of the Absentees,'' who, due to distance or to
pressing business engagements, were prevented from
attending. Amonst these were Mr. H. M. Sayers, in
Oporto ; Mr. W. B. Sayers, in Glasgow ; Prof. Walmsley,
in Edinburgh ; and Messrs. Mordey, Mudford, Dowsing,
Rogers, Bailev, and Probert, who at the last moment had
found themselves unable to attend.
"Our Guests" was then proposed by Mr. R Percy
Sellon, to which Mr. Preece replied, and a vote of thanks
to the Chairman, proposed by Mr. Swinburne, brought
the pleasant proceedings to a termination.
Between the speeches songs were given by Mr. Trefelyn
David, violin solos by Mr. Jacobi, and piano solos by
Mr. W. Emerson, all of which were much appreciated.
BRADLEY'S MULTIPHASE PATENTS.
It is not our province to determine the priority of patent
rights, but besides Tesla, Mr. C. S. Bradley was also in
the field in 1888. This will be seen from his patent
specification of August 20, 1889, the important part of the
text of which is given herewith. We have not reproduced
Figs. 1 to 7, as these are diagrammatic, and the principle
of the application is easily seen in the remaining figures,
which are numbered as in the specification.
In the generation, distribution, and utilisation of alternating
currents it has been proposed to use two sets of coils on the
generator, arranged angularly at OOdeg., supplying two circuits
with currents whose time-periods difiered by one quarter-phase,
and these two currents or sets of current were utilised to
operate an electric motor having corresponding circuits sym-
metrically arranged, so that the idtemation of the wave-lengths
or vibrations of current produced a rotation of the poles of the
motor armature, and the armature revolved in consequence.
Such a system is clearly set forth in Letters Patent No. 300,439,
issued to me October 2, 1888. I have therein shown a generator
and a motor, both having the armature circuit closed, and
simply tai>ped at four points, OOdeg. apart, each two opposite
points being connected into one external circuit, and the
other two opposite points being connected into the other
external circuit. The external circuits obviously could be so
arranged that one wire would serve as a common return for
both. I have discovered, however, that the rotation of polarity
in the motor can be accomplished without having as many
as four ceils, or two pairs of coils symmetrically arranged, and
the object of my present invention is to reduce the elements
to the smallest possible number with respect to both the
generator and the motor.
The present invention consists in a dynamo-electric machine
(whether generator or motor) having a closed armature circuit
tapped at three points, each of which is connected to one of
three contact rings, such armature revolving in inductive
proximity to a field magnet.
The invention further consists in a dynamo-electric machine
constructed and adapted to generate or absorb three currents or
waves of current all differing in their time-periods.
The invention further consists in a dynamo-electric machine
constructed and adapted to generate or absorb three currents or
waves of current, each one-third of a phase or wave-length
behind its predecessor.
The invention further consists in the combination and
arrangement of devices, all substantially as hereinafter fully
described and claimed.
In alternating-current generators the number of field-
magnet poles determines the number of vibrations per revolu-
tion, and for the sake of simplifying the description 1 will show
the invention as applied to a two-pole machine, though, of
course, it can be applied to other forms.
In the drawings which form part of this specification. Figs.
1 to 6 inclusive, show diagram matically the generator in six
equal and successive portions of one revolution. Figs. 1a to 6a,
inclusive, show the corresponding phases produced in the
external circuits. Fig. 7 is a completed diagram of the phases
occurring during the one revolution. Fig. 8 is a simple diagram
representing my invention applied to a two-pole machine.
Fig. 9 is a diagram showing the construction of the generator
when intended for self-excitation. Fig. 10 is a diagram repre-
senting the manner of connecting a closed-circuit armature to
give three series of alternating currents and three external
circuits adapted to utilise them separately. Fig. 11 is a diagram
showing a generator and motor, both self -excited, and the con-
necting circuits.
Referring to Figs. 8, 9, and 10, it will be seen that I can use
a simple ring armature. A, with continuous wiring closed on
itself, the armature being placed for revolution in the field,
N S, which may be excit^ by the rectified current of tho
armature or a shunt thereof, or by a separate exciter, or by any
of the usual or known methods. I select three eijuidistaut
points, a, 6, and c, of the armature winding and connect them
to the contact rings, d, e, /, which are shown as fitted against
the end of the armature, but will in practice be on the shaft, as
in Fig. 11. Separate brushes, g, A, i, bear on the rings, and,
beuig three in number, are capable of forming three distinct
pairs of circuits for external distribution with only three wires.
By reference to the operation disclosed in Figs. 1 to 6 and
1a to 6a, inclusive, and Fig. 10, the peculiar action of the
generator will be understood. The diagrams. Figs. 1a to 6a,
show the three partial phases produced during the sixth of a
revolution of the armature which each diagram represents. If
we now consider (see Fig. 10) each of the brushes, (/, /t, /, con-
nected to one wire of a three-wire external circuit, A*, ly m, it
will be seen that the latter may form three pairs. A* {, k in, and
I m, and in each pair consumption or translating devices — for
example, lamps, n — may be connected. Upon now tracing the
diagrams in connection with Fig. 10, it will be seen that each of
the three external circuits will be a path for a distinct series of
alternations. The three sections of the armature, A, will
deliver, respectively, the alternations or waves of current indi-
cated on the diagrams by a 6, a c, and b c, and each set of waves
will be complete and continuous, but will be behind one another
in their time-periods to the extent of one- third of a phase or
wave-length. If, then, the throe external circuits be closed,
each will receive a single set of alternations and serve for light-
ing and other distribution purposes, and the current strengths
wul depend upon the resistances in the circuits.
In my said former patent I have shown that an alternating-
current generator with two pairs of collecting devices 90deg.
apart greatly increase the output capacity of a given machine
owing to the quarter-phase difference between the alternations.
In the present case, with only three collecting devices, the out-
put capacity is still more increased by reason of the alternations
differing b^ a third of a wave-lenpth. Obviously, instead of the
lamps, u, m Fig. 10, I can substitute the primary coils of con-
verters, j9, and place the lamps or other consumption devices in
the secondary circuits of the converters, as indicated also in the
same figure.
As in my patent. No. 390,430, it is evident that when two
such machines are connected together, as shown in Fig. 11,
whether their field magnets be energised by rectified currents
or otherwise, the first being power-driven, the second machine
will operate as a motor in a manner, so far as rotation is con-
cerned, similar to the rotation of the motor set forth in my said
patent. I have shown the generator, G, and motor, M, as
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 20, 1892,
495
RubBtanUatlf alike, and each with a rectifying commutator for
delivorin); direct current to the field msgnets similarlj to the
plan illuBtrated by the digram, Fig. 9. The three connectiog
circuits wUl in thin cnse, as in Fig. 10, cnnatitute three different
circuits, and will be delivered into the motor armature in auch
m»nner as to throw into the uime in aucceluiion three Bepantte
series of current alternations, etch of which will be substantially
nne-third of a wave-length behind the seriea preceding it, and
will therefore determine the rotstioir of the armature, aa
deacribed in my former patent.
I have discovered in electric motors operated upon the
principle of two or more alternating currents differing in phase —
such, tor instance, OB that shown in my aaid former patenter
that shown in Fig. Q— that when the current is admitted to the
armature of the motor it is difficult to atart the latter when the
field-magnet circuit is cloaed, whether the latter be Bupplied
with it« exciting; current from the mains or from an independent
source ; but if at the moment of introduction of current into
the armature circuit the circuit of the field magnet be left open.
delivered to the brushes, g, h, i, which bear on the contact-
rings, d, «, /, and thence to the desired consumption device*.
By the foregoing invention T obtain the best possible results
from an alternating-current machine with the least pootible
number of distributing or supply wires. This is due to the two
featurea of closed armature circuit and trisected winding. The
latter determineB the one-third phaae difference in the aeries of
alternations or waves, and the former permits three separate
external circuits to be established on only three wires, while the
potential of aU three will be aubstantially alike. Were the
armature circuit made up of three separate coils, six wire*
would be required in the external circuits to accomplish the
same resulta. Were the armature circuit quodrisected, as in
m^ previous patent, two separate circuits can be established
with three wires, one being a common return for the other
two ; but only two independent currents can tben be mne*
rated, each supplementing the other. It is true that with the
quadrisected armature two current* are obtainable, each of
which may be practically as great in strength aa the machine
_?V-
xez5ja,
ZSIUS3JlL.
XtZ^HEM.
tp^GF
the armature will readily Btart into rotation and quickly rise in
Bpeed until it synchronises with the generator, and the field-
magnet circuit can then be closed and the operation of the
arui;iture will continue under ita boat conditions and remain at
the speed of the generator.
In Fig. 11 1 have shown the field magnet of the motor as
being excited by the currents from the main circuits rectified by
a commutator, and in this field-magnet circuit I locate a
switch, «, for the above purpose.
Obviously, electromotive devices similar to the motor shown
in Fig. 11 may be inserted in the circuits, fc, 1, m, and the
entire current can be rectified by means of the armature, A, and
its commutator and brushes, from the latter of which the
rectified and continuous current may be delivered to any
desired translating or consumption device^such, for instance,
as a continuous -current motor, an electroplating bath, an arc
lamp, or other device adapted to use with a continuous current.
It is also obvious, as set forth in my above-mentioned patent,
that continuous currents delivered to su^ an electromotive
device and passing in at the commutator bmshea can be split
into three series of alternating currents of difl'ering phase and
would stand if produced in the ordinary way ; but it is also
true that with my present trisected armature three currents are
obtainable, each of which may be practically as great in strength
aa the machine could generate with a four-coil or quadrisected
armature, and this I accomplish with three separate external
circuits composed altogether of but three wires. This I hold to
be the maximum result with the fewest components of eitenutl
In the claims I ubd the term " current-leading device " aa
expresBive of the means of connecting the marine to the
external cirouit, whether such means be rin^ and bnuhea or
commutator and brushes, or both, or simple fixed connectiona.
The last would obviously be sufficient, m caae I revenad the
arrangomeut of the machine, making the armature stationary
and the field magnet movable. I claim as my invention —
1. The combination, with an alternating-current dynamo-
electric machine adapted to generate and deliver three separate
series of alternations differing in their time-periods by one-
third of a phase, of three external circuits composed in aU of
three conductora permutated into said three circuits, and oon-
somption devices located in aaid external circuits.
496
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 20, 1892.
8. In an electromotiTe device, the oombiiiation ot a field
RMgnet Mtd « rotating amiature provided with ft current-recti^-
ing DDnimaUtor and bnuhea therefor, through which cuireiit is
nweived into the annature and rotation produced in the moving
Sart of the machine, throe current-leading devicea on the one
and connected, reepectivel;, into the armature circuit at
equidiatant pointa and ao arranged ralativeiy aa to lead off three
independent seriee of alternating currents Bubalantialljr one-
thira of a phase apart in their reUtive time-periods, and ou the
other hand connected with three eiternal circuita compoaed in
all of three conduotora permutated into the said three circuits,
and consumption devices locsted in each of the three circuit*.
EXPERIMENTS WITH ALTERNATE CORRENTS OF
HIGH POTENTIAL AND HIGH FREQUENCY.*
BY NIKOLA TKSLA.
(Cmitinued from paije i7J.)
Thia idea is not novel. Men hsTe been led to it long ago by
inatinct or reason. It haa been expreaaed in many waya, and
in many placea, in the history of old and new. We Snd it
in the delightful myth of Antheus, who derives power from
the earth ; we find it among the sebtle speculations of one
of your splendid mathematiclana, and in many hinte and
•t&temente of tfainlcora of the present time. Throughont space
there is energy. Is this energy static or kinetic '. It static,
our hopes are in vain ; iF kinetic— and this we know it is for
certain — then it la a mere question of litcc when men will succeed
in attaching their machinery to the very wheelwork of nature.
Of all, living or dead, Crookea oome neareet to doine it, Hia radio-
meter will turn in the light of day and in the darkneas of the
night ; it will turn everywhere where there is heat, and heat
is everywhere. But, nnfortnnately, this beautiful little machine,
while it eoe» down to poeteritv aa tbe meet interesting, must
likewiae be put on record aa the moat inefficient machine ever
invented 1
The preceding experiment la only one of manv equally interest-
ing ex^riments which may be performed by the use of only one
w&e with alternate ourrenta of bigh potential and frequency. We
may connect an insulated line to a source of such currents, we may
p«Ms an inappreciable current over the line, aud on any point of
the same we are able to obtain a heavy current, capable of fuain;;
a thick copper wire. Or we may, by the help of some
artifice, decompose a solution in an electrolytic cell by
connecting only one pole of the cell to tlie line or
rource of energy. Or we may, by attaching to the line, or only
bringing into ita vicinity, light up an incandescent lamp, an
exhausted tube, or a phosphorescent bulb. However impractic-
able this plan of working may appear in many cases, it certainly
•eema practicable, and even recommend able, in the production of
light. A perfected lamp would require bub little energy, and if
wi(«s are used at all, we onght to be able to supply that energy
without a return wire. It is now a fact that a body may be
rendered incandescent or phoephoreacent by bringing it either in
aingle contact or merely in the vicinity of a source of electric
impulses of tbe proper character, and Chat in thia manner a
quantity of light sufficient to afford a practical illnminant may be
produced. It is, therefore, to say the least, worth while to
attempt to determine the beat oonditions and to invent the beet
3)pliancea for attaining this object. Some experiences have
ready been gained in this direction, and I will dwell on them
briefly, in the hope that they mighb prove useful. The heating
of a conducting body enclosed in a bulb, and connected to
a source of rapidly- alternating electric impulses, is dependent
on BO many things of a different nature, that It would be
difficult to give a generally applicable rule under which the
maximum heating occurs. Aa regards the size of the vessel, I bi
aame amount of energy ~by a certain potential and frequency i>
given off from the b«iy, whether the bulb be small or large, the
body is brought to a liigher temperature if enclosed in a small
bulb, because of the better confinement of heat in thia case. At
lower pressures, when air becomea more or less conducting, or if
the air be sutficiantly warmed aa to become conducting, tbe body
la rendered more intensely incandescent in a large bulb, obviously
because, under otherwise eqnal conditions of teste, more energy
may be given off from the body when the bulb is large. At very
higli detrrees of exhaustion, when the matter in the bulb becomes
" radiant," a large bulb has still an advantage, but a comparatively
■l^ht one. over the small bulb. Finally, at excessively high degrees
of exhaustion, which cannot be reached except by the employment
of special meana, there seems to be, beyond a certain and rather
enudl size of vcasel, no perceptible difference in the beating.
Tbeee observations were the result of a number of experiments,
of which one, showing the effect of the aiie of the bulb at a high
degree of exhaustion, may be described and shown here, as it
preaenta a feature of intereat. Three spherioal bulbs of 2in,,
Sin., and 4iD. diameter were taken, and in tbe centre of each
equal length of an ordinary incttDdeeoeot
lamp filament of uniform thioknees. In each bnlb the pieM ^
filament was fastened to the leading-in wire of plaUnnm, contMned
in a glass atom sealed in the bulb ; care being taken, of oouree, to
make everything as nearly alike as possible. On eeob f^an elem
in the inside of the bulb was slipped a highly -polished tube made
of aluminium sheet, which fitted the stem and waa held on it by
spring pressure. The function of this aluminium tube will be
explained subsequently. Id each bulb an equal length of fiUmant
protruded above the metal tube. It is auffioient to say now that
under these oonditions equal lengths of filament of the same
thickneBB— in other words, bodies of equal bulk— were brought to
incandescence. The three bulbs were sealed to a glaaa tube, which
was connected to a Sprengel pump. When a high vaennm bad
been reached, the glass tube carrying the bulbs was eealed off, A
current was then turned on successively on each bulb, and it waa
found that the filomenU came to about the same briehtnesa, and,
if anything, the smallest bulb, which waa placed midway between
the two la[ger ones, may have been slightly hrfghter, Tbia result
was expected, for when either of the bulbs was connected to the
coil luminosity spread throush the other two, hence tbe three
bulbs constituted really one vessel. When all the three bulbs war*
connected in multiple arc to tbe coil, in the largest of them the
filament glowed brightest, in the next smaller it waa a little leaa
bright, and in the smallest it only came to redness. The bnlbe
filaments i
suppc
J been expected c
* Lecture delivered before the Institution of Electrical
Engineers at the Royal Institution, on Wednesday evening,
February 3, 1992, From the Jonriml of the Institution of
'*<l«ebiaal Engineers.
the
, ._ each case 'representing one
of tbe coatings of a condenser. Accordingly, there wa* lees differ-
ence between the largest and the middle-aized than between the
latter and the e i all eat bulb.
An interesting observation was made iu this experiment. The
three bnlbs weresuapended from a straight bore wbv connected io
a terminal of the coil, Che largest bulb being placed at the end of
the wire, at acme diatance from it the smallest bulb, and an equal
distance from the latter the middle-aizod one. The carbonsglowed
then in both the larger bulbs about as ex|>ected, but the smallest
did not got its share by far. This observation led me to exchange
the positions of the bulbs, and I then observed that whichever of
the bulbs was in the middle it was by far less bright than it was in
any other position. This mystifying result waa, of course, found
to be due to electrostatic action between the bulbs. When they
were placed at considerable distance, or when they were attached
to the corners of an equilateral triangle of ooppei wire, they glowed
, about in the order determined by their surfaces. As to tbe shape
; of the vessel, it is also of some importance, esjieciolly athighdegrees
' of exhaustion. Of all the possible constructions, it seems that
a spherical globe with the refractory body mounted in ita centre
ia tbe best to employ. In experience it baa been demonstrated
that in such a globe a refractory body of a given bulk is more
easily brought to incandescence than when otherwise sha|ied bul be
are used. There is also an advantage in giving to tbe incandes-
cent body the shape of a sphere, for self-evident reasons. In any
I case the bodv shnutd be mounted in tbe centre, where the atoms
rebounding from the glosa collide. This object is best attained
in the spherical bulb, but it is also attained in a cylindrical vessel
with one or two straight filaments coinciding with ita axis, and
possibly also in parabolical or spherical bulbs with the refrac-
tory body or bodiea placed in the focus or foci of the same,
though the latter ia not probable, aa the electrified atoms should
in all cases rebound normally from the aurface they strike, unless
the apeed were excessive, in which case they would probably
follow the general law of reflection. No matter what shape the
vessel may nave, if Che exhausUou be low, a filament mounted
in tbe globe is brought to the some degree of incandescence in all
parte ; out if the exhaustion be high, and the bulb be spherical or
pear-shaped, as usual, focal points form, and the filament ia heated
to B hieher degree at or near such pointe. To illustrate the effect,
I have liere two small bulbs which are alike, only one ia exhausted
to a low and the other to a very high d^ree. When connected to
Che coil, the filament in Che former glows uniformly throughout
all its length ; whereas in the latter, that portion of the filament
which ia in the centre of the bulb glows tar more intensely than
the rest, A curious point ia that Che phenomenon occurs even if
two filamenCs are mounted in a bulb, each being ci
' terminal of the coil, and, what is still more curious
near together, provided the vacuum be very high,
perimenta with such bulbii thai the filaments w
uaually at a certain point, and in the first tri]Lls I attributed it .
I a defect in tbe carbon. But when the phenomenon occurred many
. timea in aucceeaion I recognised ita real cause.
I In order to bring a refractory body enclosed in a bulb to
incandescence, iC is deeirable, on account of economy, that all tbo
' energy supplied to the bulb from the source should reach without
loss the body to be heated ; from there, and from nowhere elHt, it
, should be radiated. It is, of course, out of the question to reach
' this theoretical result, buC iC is |KMsible by a pro)ier consCruction
. of the illuminating device to approximate more or less Io it. For
I many reasons, the refractory body in placed in the centre <if tho
bulb, and it ia usuallv supported on a glass stem containing the
I leoding-in wire. As tne potential of this wire is alternated, the
rarefiro gas surrounding the stem ia acted upon inductively, ami
the glosa atem ia violently bombarded and heated. In this
manner by far the greater portion of the ener){y aupplied to the
bulb— especially when exceedingly bigh freuuenciee are used-
may be lost for the purpose contemplated. To obviate thia loep.
or at least to reduce it to a minimum, I usually screen the rarefied
gaa Burroanding the atem from the inductive action of the leading-
in wire by pronding the atem with a tubeor coating of conducting
mnected to one
. if they be verj'
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 20, 1892.
497
msterial. It *eea)s beyond doubt that ths beat among metalB to
Moploy [or this purpose it aluminium, on account of its many re-
markable properties. Its only fault is that it is easily fusible, and
therefore its distance from the incandeecing body should be
properly estimated. Usually, a thin tubs, of a diameter somewhat
smaller thac that of the plaas stem, is made of the finest Blumininm
^eet, and slipped oo tbe sMm. The tube is conveniently prepared
by wrapping around a. rod fastened in a lathe a piece of aluminium
sheet 01 the proper size, graBpins the sheet Srmly with clean chamoie
leather or blotting-paper, and spinning the rod very fast. The
sheet is wound tightly around tbe rod, and a hlshly-polished tube
of two or three layers of the sheet is obtained. When slipped on the
stem, the pressure is generallysuEGcient to prevent it from BlipoinK
off, but, for safety, the tower edge of the sheet may be turnea in-
side. The upper insidecomer oTthe sheet— that is, the one which
is nearest to the refractory incandescent body — should be cut out
dia^nally, as it often happens that, in consequence of tlie intense
heat, this corner turns towards the inside and oomes very near
t«, or in contact with, the wire, or filament, supporting the refrac-
tory body. The greater part of the energy supplied to the bulb
is then used up in heating the metal tube, and the bulb is
rendered useless for the purpose. Tbe aluminium sheet shonld
project above the glass Bt«m more or less— lin. or so— or else, if
the glass tie t«o close to the incandescing body, it may be stronely
heated, and become more or less conductug, whereupon it maylm
ruptured, or may, by it« conductivity, establish a good electrical
connection between the metal tube and the leading-in wire, in
which case, of course, again, most of the energy will be lost in
heating the former, Perhaps the best way is to moke the top of
the glass tube, for about an inch, of a much smaller diameter. To
still further reduce the danger arising from the heating of the
glass stem, and also with the view of preventing an electrical con-
nection between the metal tut>e ana the electrode, I preferably
wrap the sMm with several layers of thin mica, which extends at
least as far as the metal tube. In some bulbs 1 have also used an
outaide insulating cover.
The preceding remarks are only made to aid the ezperimentei
in the first triaU, for the difficnltiea which he encounters he may
soon find means to overcome in bis own way. To illustrate the
effect of the screen, and the advantage of using it, I have here two
bulbs of the same size, with their stems, lading.
tube, tbe stem of the other has none. Originally the two bulbs
were joined by a tube which was connected to a Sprengel pump.
When a high vacuum had been reached, first the connecting tube
and then the bulbs were sealed off ; they are therefore of the same
dwree of exhaustion. When they are separately connected to the
coil giving a certain potential, the carkxin filament in the bulb
provided with the aluminium screen is rendered highly incan-
descent, while the filament in the other bulb may, with the same
potential, not even come to redness, although in reality the latter
bulb takes generally more energy than the former. When they
are both connected together to the terminal, the difference is even
more apparent, showing the importance of the screening. The
metal tube placed on tbe stem containing the leading-m wire
performs really two distinct functions : First, ic acti^ more or lees
as an electrostatic screen, thus economising tbe energy supplied to
the bulb ; and, second, to whatever extent it may fail to act
electrostatically, it acts mechanically, preventing the bombard-
ment, and consequently intense heating and possible deterioration,
of the slender support of the refractory incandescent body, or oi
the glass stem containing the leading-in wire. I say slender
support, for it is evident that in order to confine the heat more
completely to the incandescing body its support should be very
thin, so as to carry away the smallest possible amount of heat by
conduction. Of all the supports used I have found an ordinary
incandescent lamp filament to be the beet, orincipallv because,
among conductors, it can withstand tiie highest agrees of
heat,
Tbe effectiveness of the metal tube as an electrostatic screen
depends largely on the degree of ftihaustioo. At excessively high
d^rees of exhaustion— which are reached by naing great care and
special means in connection with the Sprengel pump— when the
matter in the globe is in the ultra-radiant state, it acte most
perfectly. The shadow of the upper edge of the tube is then
sharply defined upon the bulb. At a somewhat lower degree of
exhaustion, which is about tbe ordinal? " non-strikinE " vacuum,
and generally as long as tbe matter moves predominantly in straight
ii„== .(,„ = — — -.m J — — II t., elucidation of the preceding
of lo«
low-frequency dinchai^e may not pass, even though the pot«ntial
t>e much higher. At ordinary atmospheric pressures just the
reverse rule holds good ; the higher the frequenin', the
less the spark discharge is able to jump between the ter-
minals, especially if they are knobs or spneres of some siie.
Finally, at very low deKreee of exhaustion, when the gas is
well conducting, the metal tube not only does not act as an
electroHtatic screen, but even is a drawback, aiding to a consider-
able extent the dissipation of tbe energy laterally from tbe
leading in wire. This, of couree, is to be expected. In this case-
namely, the metal tube is In good electrical connection with the
teoding-in wire, and most of the bombardment is directed upon
the tube. As long as the electrical connecUon is not good, the
conducting tube is always of some advantage, for although It may
not trreatly economise energy, atill it protecta the support of tlui
refractory button, and is a means for concentrating more energy
upon the same.
To whatever extent the aluminum tube performs the function of
a screen, its usefulness is therefore limited to very high degrees of
exhaustion when it is insulated from the electrode — that is. when
the gas as a whole is non- conducting, and the molecules, or atoms,
act as independent carriers of electric charges. In addition
to acting as a more or leas effective screen, in the true meaning
of the word, the conducting tube or coating may also act, by
reason of it« conductivity, as a sort of equaliser or dampener
of the bombardment a«ainst tbe stem. To be explicit, I assume
the action as follows: auppose a rhythmical bombardment to oocnr
against tbe conducting tube by reason of its imperfect action as
a screen, it certainly must liappen that some molecules, or atoms,
strike the tube sooner than others. Those which come first in
contact with it give up their superfluous charge, and the tube
is electrified, the electrification instantly spreading over its
surface. But this must diminish the enei^y lost in the bombard-
ment, for two reasons : firstly, the chaise given up by the atoms
spreads over a great area, and hence the electrio density at any
[Mint is small, and the atoms are repelled with leas energy than
they would be if they would strike against a good insulator ;
secondly, as tbe tni>e is electrified by tM atoms which first come
in contact with it, the progress of the following atoms against the
tube is more or less checked by the repulsion which the electrified
tube must exert upon the similarly electrified atoms. This
repulsion may perhaps be eaffident to prevent a large portion of
the atoms from striking the tnl>e, hot at any rate it must diminish
the energy of their impact. It is clear that when the exhaustion
is 1 ery low, and the rarefied gas well conductinz, neither of the
above effects can occur, and, on the other hand, the fewer the
atoms, with the greater freedom they move ; in other words, the
higher the degree of exhaustion, up to a limit, the more telling
will be Irath the effects.
Fta. 18.— Bulb with Mica Tube with Aluminium Screen.
What I have just said may afford an explanation of the
through a bulb is established with much greater facility when an
insulator than when a conductor is present in the same. In my
opinion, the conductor acts as a dampener of the motion of thie
atoms in two ways pointed out ; hence, to cause a visible discharge
to pass through tbe bulb, a much higher potential is needed if a
conductor, especially of much surface, be present. For the sake
of clearness of some of the remarks liefore made, I must now refer
to Figs. IS, 19, and 20, which illustrate various arrangemente with
a type or bulb most generally used, Fig, IS is a section through
a spherical bulb, L, with tbe glass stem, t, containing the leading-
in wire, 10, which has a lamp filament, i, fastened to it, serving to
support the refractory button, m. In the centre, M is a sheet of
thin mica wound in several layers around stem, s, and a is the
aluminium tube. Fig. 19 illustrates such a bulb in a somewhat
more advanced stage of perfection, A metallic tube, S, is fastened
by means of some cement to the neck of the tube. In the tube ia
screwed a plug, P, of insulating material, in the centre of which is
fastened a metallic terminal, e, for the oonnection to the leading-in
wire, u. This terminal must be well insulaE«d from tbe metal
tube, S, therefore, if the cement used is conducting — and meet
Snerally it is safRciently so— tbe space between the plug, P, and
9 neck of tbe bulb shouldbe filled with some good insulating
with an external connection, which serves to investigate ttie i
of the tube under various conditions. It is referred to chieSy to
le effect
of experiment followed.
B the krambardment against the stem containing the leading-
I is due to the inductive action of the latter upon tbe rarefied
gas, it is of advantage to reduce this action as far as practicable
by employing a very thin wire, surronnded by a very thick inaulo-
tion of gfasa or other material, and by making the wire poselog
through the rarefied gas as short as practicable. To combine
these features 1 employ a lai^ tube, T (Fig. 21), which protrodea
into the bglb to some distance, and cairiea on the lop a W7 abort
498
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 20, 1892,
glass stem, *, into which is sealed the leading'in wire, to, and I
teot the to[i of the gUss Bt«m agaioat thehekt byaimajlalumin
tube, a, and a layer of mioa underneath the game, as usuot. The
wire, 10, poaeine through the large tube to the outside of the bulb,
should be well msulat^— with a glass tube, For instance— and the
■pKce between ought Co be filled out with someeicellent insulator.
Among many inBukting powders I have tried, I have found that
mica powder is tlie best to employ. If this precaution is not
taken, the tube, T, protruding into the bulb will surely be
craclied in conf^equonce of the heatine by the brushes, which are
apt to form in tlie u|>|>er part of the tube, near the exhaiiBtcd
Flo. 19.— Improved Bulb with Socket and Screen.
globe, especially if the v
1 be excellent, and therefore the
Illustratea a similar ^ „ . . , ,
into the part ot the bulb containing the refractory button,
this case the wire leading from the outside into the bulb is
omitted, the energy required being supplied through condenser
coating, C C. The insulating packing, P, should in this con-
struction be tightly fitting to the glass, and rather wide, or
otherwise the discharge might avoid pasting through the wire, id.
which connects the inside condenser coating to the incandescent
The molecular bombardment against the glass stem in the bulb
is a source of great tronble. As illustration I will cite a pheno-
menon only too frequently and unwillingly observed. A bulb,
preferably a large one, may be taken, and a good conducting body.
such as a piece of carbon, may be mounted in it upon a platinum
wire eeatea in the glass stem. The bulb may be exhausted to a
ftdrly high degree, nearly to the point when phosphorescence begins
to appear. When the bulb is connected with the coil, the piece of
Fio. 20.— Bulb for Experiments with Conducting Tube.
carbon, if small, may become highly incandescent at first, but its
brightness immediately diminishes, and then the discharge may
break through the glass somewhere in the middle of the stem, in
the form of bright sparks, in spite of the fact that the platinum
wire is in good electrical connection with the rarefied gas
through the piece of carbon or metal at the top. The &Bb
sparks are singularly bright, recalling those drawn from a clear
surface of mercury. But as they heat the glass rapidly they of
course lose their brightness, and cease when the glass at the
ruptured place becomes incan iescont, or generally sufficiently
'"'■"" "" When observed for the firat time the phenomenon
.uru f..nnna^ (jud showB IH a Striking manner
r impulsee, of high
frgqamoy benave, m oomparad with steady ourrents, or onrrenti
of low trei^uency. With such cnrrente — namely, the latt«r — the
------aienon would, of course, not occur. When trequenciM such
obtained by mechanical means are used, I think thai the
e ot the glass is more or less the consequence ot the
sncies obtainable with condensers, I have
s may give way without previous heating.
Fin. 21.— I-,---
-iducting Butti
Although this appears most singular at first, it is in reality what
we might expect to occur. The energy supplied to the wire
leading into the bulb is given oil" partly by direct action through
the carbon button, and partly by inductive action through the
glass surrounding the wire. The case is thus analc^ous to that in
which a condenser shunted by a conductor of low resistance in
connected to a source of alternating currents. As long as the
treciuencies nre low. the conductor gets the most, and the oon-
cleneer is perfectly safe ; but when the frequency becomes exces-
sive the r/Ue of the conductor may become quite insignificant. In
the latter case the difference of potential at the terminab of the
condenser may become so great as to rupture the dielectric, not-
withstanding the fact that the terminals are joined by a conductor
Fio. 22.— Type of Bulb without Leading-in Wire.
enckwe
of low resistance. It is, of coarsi .
to produce the incandescence of a body encfoeed in a bulb by
means of these currents, that the body should be a oonductor, for
even a perfect non-conductor may he quite as readily heated. For
this purpose it is sufficient to surround a conducting electrode with
the noo. conducting material, as, for instance, in the bulb described
beforn in Fig. 21, in which a thin incandescent lamp filament is
coated with a non-conductor, and supports a button of the same
material on the top. At the start the bombardment goes on b^
inductive action through the non-conduotor until the same is
sufficiently heated to become conducting, when the bwnbanlment
continues in the ordinary way.
fTo be ixMimtid.}
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER. MAY ^, 1892.
499
ON THE CAUSE OF THE CHANGES OF ELECTRO-
MOTIVE FORCE IN SECONDARY BATTERIES.*
In 1882, Dr. CladBtone and the late Mr. Tribe sent Ui iVo/Kr*
four letters on the "Chemistry of Secondary Batteries." The
biain point establiehed in those papers was the all -important
functionB o! sulphat* of lead. They showed, in fact, that when a
lead lead-peroxide cell is diacharged, "eulphnto of lead in the
ultimate Drodnct on both plates," and when it i« charged aeain.
" this lead sulphate ia oxidated on the one plaMiAnd roduced on
the other." In 1883, another letter appeared, in which, amone-
other things, the effect of different strengths of acid when the cell
ifl being chargod was inveatigafced, and the enistence of occluded
hydrogen, oMne, and hydrogen dioxide was oonaidered. These
letters were subsequently published in book form-t In a pajier
of the same authors in the Jo'iniaJ of the Chemical Society for
1883, p. 345, reference was made to the production of persulphuric
«cid in the alectrolysiB of oil of vitriol.
In iSS3, Prof. Fruiklnnd; obtained substantially the same results,
and proposed to aecertain the state of a cell during charge or dis-
charge by observing the density of the acid. In 18SD, Messrs. I>uncan
and WiegondS inveetigated the rate of diffusion of the acid out of
the pores of the spongy mosses in the plates of a secondary battery.
In 1889, Heira"! investigated the change in capacity of seoondnry
batteries when used with different strengths o( acid and gave the
E.M.F. 'a observed when the strength varied from 10 to 35 per
cent. H^Oi. In l^W) we published experimentsll which led us to
regard the "abnormal initial E.M.F. of a secondary battery as
dae to inequality of acid strength, and its gradual disappearance
«B due to equalisation of strength produced by di^sion. Shortly
after this an elaborate and valuable series of observations on
accumulators was published by Messrs, Ayrton, Iamb, Smith, and
Woods," who have given curves showing the changes in potential
difference under mjiny conditions of working, Tney allude to
our suggefition, and conclude on various grounds that it ia insuffi-
cient to explain some of the phenomena. In the discussion which
followed this paper Mr. Hibbert argod that curves given hy the
authors afforded confirmation of our hypotheeia. Subsequently,
two papers were sent to the Boyal Society by Mr, O. H, Robert-
Bon and Prof. Armstrong.-M- of which only the abstracls have been
printed. From these, as well as from a lecture by Mr. Robertson
at the Society of Arts, JJ we gather that they attribute much to the
formation of persulphuric acid and hydrogen dioxide.
We have lately been making additional experimentB on the
matter, which have led us to the conclusion that variations in the
strength of the sulphuric acid are the main cause of the variations
In E.M F, Wa proposed to consider : First, what variations of
Btrength of acid actually occur during charge, repose, and
discharge : second, experimental detormination of the change of
E.M.F. produced by changing the strength of acid; third, how
far this is capable of explaining all that is known about the
changes of E.M.F. ; fourth, confirmations, experimental and
theoretical : fifth, other suggested causes.
Pabt 1.— What Vauutions of Stbenuth of Acid actuai.lv
Occur niiuiNo CiiAm^E, Repose, asji Di,«-nAi«iE,
(o) Changf Diimig Cluir^r.—lf we start with a prooerly-formed
cell which has been diseharBed, wo have to deal with two leaden
aupports, on one of which there is a mixture of lend sulphate
(PbSO,), with more or less lend peroxide (PbO,). and on tho other a
mixture of load sulphate (PbSOi), with more or less spongy
metallic lead. Each of these mixtures is a porous hiyor the inl«r-
itices of which may penetrate to tho leaden support. To avoid
confusion, we propose describing the one as the I'bO jtlate, and
bhe other as the Pb plate. If these be charged, the chemical
action consists of the conversion of the lead sulphate on the one
plate into PbO.ji and on the other into spongy lead, and the
electrolytic change may be expressed thus :
PbSO^ + HjO H,0 + Pb^O,= PbO,.■^^^. ttaO,-(-l'b,
It is evident that during this process sulphuric acid is formed
in the pores of both plates, whilst at the same time an equivalent
amount of water disappears. Apart from this electro -chemical
resnlt, which is equal on both sides, it is well known that during
an olectralytic decomposition there is a gradual heaping up of the
acid at what is now called the positive electrode, and a drawing
of it away from the other. This increase of strength of acid at the
peroxide plate may be seen by the descent of a denser layer of
acid through the clear space under the plate. Indeed, it is well
known that there is a circulation in the cell, the acid becoming
Btronifer at the botUrai and weaker at the top. But to remove
any doubt as to the strength of acid in tho pores of the peroxide
being greater than in Chose of the other plat«, we made a direct
experiment. A cell was mode of two small fully-formed plates,
each in a porous pot containing about 30 cubic centimetres of
acid. These porous pots were placed in a large dish of the same
acid and a current of 0"2 ampere sent through for two hours.
■ Paper read before the Institution of Electrical Engineers.
t"The Chemistry of Secondary Batteries." Macmillan, 1883.
jPror. Roy, Soc,, vol, xxxv,, p. 67.
g Blcclrical World, June 15, I8S9. 1J El. Zr.it.. 1S89, p. 88,
li "Notes on Secondary Batteries," P/iil. Mar,., isffl), p. 1«S.
"Jour. Inst, Elec. Engineers, 1890, pp. 539 and «60.
ft /'rvc.Boy. Soc.,ltJ91, pp. 105 and 1U8. HSoc AittJoanttU,
' rti, 1891.
After that time, the acid in the pot containing the PbO, plate had
increased 3 percent., whilst that round the Pb plate had diminished
1 per cent. Of course, during the whole process of charging,
diffusion is tending to equalise the strength of tho acid, but it is
much impeded by the capillary nature of the nasaoaes through
which it must take place. It is quite conceivable that towards
the end of charging, a Him of tho strongest acid — that is, HjSO^
itself— covers the working surface of the PbO« plate. All theao
actions account for the well-known fact that during the charge
the whole body of the liquid in a working cell rises in density by
somewhere about O-Ol.
(b) Change/ on JtepOic— At the end of charging, the PbO, plate
consists of porous poroxide attached to the lead supgurt, sur-
rounded by strong sulphuric acid. This sulphuric acid will diffuse
out into the intermediate liquid at a rate which Messrs, Duncan
and Wicgand's results show to be rapid at first. Complete equali-
sation is, however, a very alow process, to be reckoned by hours
rather than by minutes. But there are other actions reducing the
sulphuric acid in the pores at the same time. The PbO, and its
supporting lead are in a condition to set up energetic local action
with the formation of sulphate of lead, and consequent absorption
of sulphuric acid from the liquid. The chemical change is as
follows :
Pb05 + H;S0^ H^0H + Pb = PbH04 + H50 ILO -(- PbSO..
(It must be remembered that the^^'tn th^ equation is the lead
support for the peroxide. Common experience shows that it is
corroded during use.) This action clearly will absorb sulphuric
acid from the liquid in the pores wid replaoe it by water. In a
well-charged plate, there is always at first an evolution of a little
oxygen gas, which has been attributed' to the reaction of hydrogen
dioxide on peroxide of lead.
PbOj -1- HjOj = PbO + HjO + O5.
If this be the case, the oxide of lend (PbO) formed must also
abstract its equivalent of sulphuric acid from the liquid.
Of the three causes of weakening— diffusion, local action, and
reduction by HjO.— the first goes on till the acid in the pores is
brought down to the same strength as that in the intermediate
liquid. But the local action may still continue for oiany days, and
e<juali8ation of strength produced by diffusion. But there is an
action jieculiar to this plate— that ia, a direct, slow chemical
action of the sulphuric ncid on the lead, producing lead sulphate
and hydrogen gas.t The equation is —
Pb -H H jSO, = PbSO. -(- Hj.
This must gradually produce a weakening of the acid in the pores,
and it is important to notice that diffusion, which is always slow,
will be almost entirely prevented by the choking up of the
capillary poseagos by tho gaa evolved. We have indicated the
probability that towards the end of a charge there is a film of the
strongest acid against the working surface of the PbO.j plate. If
this be true, it is evident that as soon as repose begins such a film
will almost immediately disappear, owing to diffusion into adjacent
liquid, whether in the pores or oot of them.
(c) Chnngte During Ditrkarge. — As soon as the discharge begins,
a still more rapid reduction of the strength of ncid may be
expected. Diffusion, local action, and reduction by H,0^ will still
take place on the PbO^ plate, and the direct chemical ai ' '
a that already gWBn for local a
d i^charge 1
discharge i
namely ;
PbOj + H^Oj H;aO.-fPb = Pb80j-fH,0 H^O-t-PhSO,.
(In thif case the Pb representa spongy lead on the Pb plate.)
Hj,SO| now takes place from the PbO^ to the Pb plate, causing an
additional weakening of the acid in the pores of tho first. If
discharge has commenced immediately upon the cessation of
chaining, theso different causes will combine to produce a very
rapid decrease in tho strength of the acid at the PbO, plate. In
any case, a period must soon arise in which the great excess of
sulphuric acid originally about the PbO, j^ato has disapiieared
through these various agencies, and^ the ooid on both plates will be
reduced to pretty nearly the same strength as that of the inter-
mediate liquid. After this, there will be a gradual withdrawal of
acid from the liquid in the pores, more or less uomponsated by
diffusion inwards from the intermediate liquid, ThiH. of course,
brings about the reduction in the strength of the whole ooid,
which is well known to take place during discharge.
The strength of the acid in the pores will be determined by the
relative values of the rate of withdrawal and the rate of diffusion.
But while the rate of withdrawal continues constant for a given
discharge current, the rate of diffusion rapidly diminishes.:; The
rate of weakening of the ncid is therefore a constantly increasing
one, and may Rnally become so rapid that the acid strength of the
• *' Chemistry of Secondary Batteries," p. 61.
+ Gladstone and Hibbert., Phil. Mag., 1S90, p, IM ; Ayrton and
others, Jofima/ Inst, Eloc, Engineers, 1890, p, 6H0.
X Tliip might be expected from the partial clogging of the pores
by the I'bSOi formed on both plates, and it Eos been oxperi-
ment^y thowii to be the cose by Mewi^B. Daocan And Wiegnnd.
m
tSK electrical engineer, Hat 20, i892.
liquid agaioit the working; iarfaoeB of bha pUt«s U very low or
klmMb nU. In Euch a caae we may expect the fonnatioD of the
white componnd desoribed by Gladatooe and Tribe,* which
when analvied wemed to be • IJasic compoand of the compoaibion
SPbSO^PbO.
{d) Ohanga on Rtpott aJUr Prolonged Diacliarge.—It through
pTolongad diachorge the acid againat the workins aarfaeee haa
beo<Mne very weak, and the diachar^ ia then stop)>M, it ia ei'ident
that the acid In the vone will quickly increaae in denaity, and
nDifonnity of atrength in and outajde the porea will be restored
after a while ; but the general atrength will always be lower than
the original mine. A renewal of the diacharge will, however.
Boon lead to exhauation of the acid against the working aurfacee.
It ia a matter of general knowledge that the E.M.F. of an
Boontnalator riaee alightly when the strength of the acid ia
increaaed. Incidental detenninationa of the riae occur in aeveraT
Bpen, of which we may mention one by Preecet and another by
In 1690, thinking ft probable that the chief cause of the hich
E.M.F. waa "the great inequality in strength of acid produced by
the charging oarrent," we made some eiperimenCa which were
deacribed, with tabulated resulte, before the Physical Society.§
Inatead of repeating these we now throw the results into b diagram
ol onrvea, Fig. 1.
For each case the ordinatea represent E.M.F. of the cell in
volte, the abecisas repreeeot time in minutea. The figuree attached
to the curves show the percentaKe atrengtii of the acid round the
PbO, plate. The Pb plate was ^ways in lS-6 per cent. acid.
The curves show—Firat. That in each experiment cbe E.M.F.
H 1 1 j L
S"||-S=|=|r'=------
JTi IT1^t4ifeif'iW-l+4444|
current woe initially more rapid in the case of the weaker acid.
The eabeequent and more permaoent E.M.F. also depends on the
strength ol the acid, the value for 58 per cent, acid being 2*27
volts ; for 34 per cent, acid, about 2-15 volts ; for 18'5 per cent.
acid, about 2-01 volte. When the cell has been in repose 15
minntee, the weakest acid gave 026 vott leas than the strongest,
and 0-14 volt less than the 34 per cent. acid. Thirdly. That if,
when the E,M F. has fallen, the strength of the acid be increased,
the E.M.F. quickly riaee, and aa the acid soaks int« the pores,
eventnally attains about the game value as if that particular
strength of acid had been maintained throughout.
This seemed to jnstify our coocluaion, bub we wore desirous of
obtaining more direct evidence of the effect of varying strength of
acid. In our old experiments we measured E.M.F. by the con -
denser method, and have axain found it useful in many experi-
ments. Bub we now hove made more accurate determinations by the
potentiometer, and in one series of experiments by obaerving the
current obtained throogh a high reeiatance.
Througbont the new experiments we have employed the aame
two plates. The supports consisted of thick lead wire doubled on
itself. These were pasted with red lead and then "formed " in
the nsual way, until the paste on one was pure lead, and on the
other pure peroxide of 1^. The active part of each was about
3io. long and ^in. diameter. The containing vesael and acid
varied according to ret^irement, aa described below for the
particular eipenmenCa. We found that on tranaferring the plates
from a weaker to a atronger acid the E.M.F. begins to go up, at
Brat rapidly, afterwards more and more slowly. But the finsj
value is nob reached for some hours. It was impossible to allow
so much time for each observation, and in our earlier experiments
we made our determination of E.M.F. at the end of 20 minutea or
eo. Conaequently in these our figures do nob represent the ulti-
mate value of the E.M.F. for that strength of acid, but thoy do
not fall much short of it. In al' =--.- -l- ---.- - / ..
charged, and before being used
producte of electrolysis.
Firit Striu, — In the first series both plates were immersed in
acids of the same sbreoKbh. When one observation had been mode,
the plates were quickly transferred to another cell containing
strong acid, and the E.M.F. occasionally tested for IS minutes,
when it was finally observed, and the plstet again removed into a
cell containing still stronger acid, and so on. Ilie following table
gives the reanlta :
"Chem. of Sea. Babts.," p. 46.
iProe. Roy. Soc, 1883, p. 460. t^L Ziil.,lBS9, ]
Mag., 188D, p. 16S.
. — Acid in odl round both platea. —
Density. " ' ' "
1-046 ...
1-065 ...
E.M.F. of ceU
in volU.
1-887
1-217
1-254
1-335
,13-7
43-0
2-170
The last acid was found to act vigorously on the spongy lead, so
that this series woa diacontinaed.
Second Series. —The same procedure waa followed, with Iha
exception bhat the Pb plate was kept throaghont in acid of density
1-098 ~ 14 per cent. The peroxide waa transferred from (me to
another of a series of porous pots filled with acids of the strengdi
given below ;
TablbU.
—Acid round PbO, plate .
f"*-
Percentage strength.
B.M.F. in
, . 1-932
1-080 „
1115 ..
11-5
16-2
.... 1-939
.... l'M9
1-217 ..
1-264 ..
1-335 ..
29-2
33-7
43-0
.... 1-980
... 2-013
.... 2-061
.... 2-22
,... 2-33
Js '
x;
'^^ ^
- - ^^ i.*,
i ^v ^t-
- ^^%
§""
*'"- '^
The results of the two series are plotted in the diagram Fig. 2,
It will be seen — first, that in both cases the E.M.F. increases witb
the strength of the acid, although in Curve U. there is no change
in bbe acid at the I'b plate ; secondly, there is no coincidenco of
the curves except where the conditions of the experimenta are
practically identical ; thirdly, that for any given abscisaa the
E.M.F. in Curve I. ia smaller than that in Curve II. when the acid
about the Pb plate is loss than 14 per cent., and greater when it ia
more. Hence it follows that the E.M.F. depends on the etrengtb
of the acid at both electrodes.
Tablk ni.
E.M.F. in volts.
Time of
soaking.
Denslby
%H^0,.
Ascending.
Mean.
_
Tr«!e
_
1-507
1-507
1-008
1-2
n47
1-777
1-762
1-013
20
1-792
1-825
1-808
1-020
3-1
1-835
l-8«7
I mi
1-876
1'908
SOminutei
1-071
1922
1-953
1-154
21-3
1-993
2'Olft
1-233
31-2
2-065
2086
2-06U
ISminubes
2149
2149
Third .S'cHe". — Not being sabisfied with the range or theaocnrooy
of the preceding series, we endeavoured to obbtdn a curve repre-
senbing bhe relabion bebween E.M.F. and sbrength of acid within
the widest limits. After preliminary trials and considerations, ws
adopted bhe following plan. The experimente were divided into
bwo partfl, in consequence of bbe action of strong acid on apongy
lead. In bhe first part we commenced with an acid of 5'6 percent.,
and worked upwards to 49 per cent., allowing the plaua to atand
half an hour in each acid before final observation of E.M.F. The
process was then reversed, working downwaida through the same
aclda to S'6 per cent, again, and then continued through weaker
acids te a mere trace — leea than 0-06 per cent.— and the cycl*
finished by returning once more te 5-0 per cent. As even holf-aa-
hour or an hour is scarcely sufficienb for equalisation of tba
strength of the acid within and witliout the pores of the platea,
it may be expected tliat the osceodiag seriM would eoaroaly
represent the ftill eSecb of the rise, whilst the dMoanding awiM
THE fiLECtRiCAl, ENGINEER, MAY 20, 1892.
m
woald tcarcely reprewnt the fnU effect of the fall. We therefora
give in Table III. , not only the Dambers sctoatly obtuned, bat
bIbo the msanB of the ascending and descending series, which
CMinot be far from the trae vaJaea. We have proof of this in
tbe case of the 5-0 per cent, acid, where the mean is l'g9 volta,
while the true E.M.F., aa very carefuUy determined previously
for the same etreneth, waa 1 -88 volts. This •eraement »lso pnnes
that no appreciable chuige had come over ue platM during tbe
operations.
In the Bocond part of the experiments of this series, the Pb plate
stood throughout in 27 per cent. acid. We commenced with the
PbO, plate in 43'6 per cent, acid, ascended to 88'5 per cent., and
then returned to 435 afcain. A longer time wM here allowed for
diHusion, as the stroDK acid is very viscid. Notwithatandiog this
longer soaking, the differences between the ascending and descend-
in? series are greater than before. The reeulta ate given in Uie
followiiii; table :
Table IV.
Time of
■oakiojg
peroxide
Add round per-
oxide.
Density.
% H^O..
1-338
43-5
1-446
54-8
1-569
66fl
IffllS
69-0
1723
79 fl
1'8U
88-5
Ascending. Descending. Mean.
2-279
2-3S4
2-442
2-277
2-310
2-376
The mean results of Tables III. and IV. are given in the diagram
Fig. 3. The two curves very nearly join, and when It is considered
that the highest E.M.F. of the lower curve is almeet certainly too
low, and Uie lowest E.M.F. of tbe upper curve too high, the
coincidence Is strilcing.
■" ^
""** ^
■^-^..^
"*aa ^
"^ — ^
«A "--^
J ^
An attempt was made to fcet an observation in a very strong
acid. The fully-charged PbO, plate was washed in water, ana
dried at lOOdeg. C. It was then soaked in 9Q per cent. acid.
After 34 minutes' soaking, the E.M.F. was observed, and the
plate then placed in weaker acid. In coDsequouce of absorption
of water from the adjacent liuuid of the cell, as well as from the
atmosphere, the acid round the PbO, plate fell to 91*5 per cent,
the Pb plate standing all through in 27 '6 per cent, acid. Results
are given tielow, and are fairly confirmatory of the previous
Tablb V.
97
Acid round PbO)
... 9r6 per cent. .
... 77-5 „
... 66-5
... 53-0
E.M.F.
The highest E.M.F. here obtained (2-44) is very nearly the same
as that given in Table IV. for 86 per cent. acid.
A stiU further effort was made to get an observation in the
strongest acid. A PhO, plate was soaked all night in 60 per cent,
acid, and in the morning transferred to a jar containing 99 per
cent. H^Oi, This was kept under a closed bell jar for four hours,
after which the E.M.F, between the PbO, in this strong scid and
B Pb plate in 25 per cent, acid was measured by potentiometer.
The value was 2'47 volts, which, after 30 miuutee further standing,
rose to 2'46 volts nearly. This is represented in Fig. 3 by the
small cross x . It was expected that a still higher voltage could
be obtained if both ^tes were immersed in the strongest acid,
andiluted H^Oi. The difficulty was that this acid acts pretty
rMdily on the spongy coating of the ordinary Pb plate, so we
made an experiment with a strip of ordinary clean sheet lead.
Placing this m the same H.SOt in which the PbO^ plate had been
standing for some hours, the E.M.F. was found to be as high as
2,607* volts. This is indicated in Fig. 3 by *.
described in Part II. more than cover tbe range of variation in
E.M-F. during oidinary work. For these limits are ; a maximum
F.D, of 2-6 volte at the end of achar^, and 1-6 volts at the end of
a dischargia — figures which come withm the variations produced by
strong and weuc acid. But our results go much farther than this,
and for the purpose of detailed consideration we shall compare
them (as shown m Parts I. and IL ) with the valuable observations
of Prof. Ayrton and his coltaborateurs. Their papers in the
Jrmrnid of the Institute' contain the most elaborate and tmst-
worthy account of working variations of P.D. which has yet been
publiahed. In order to moke tbe comparison more ervident to the
reader, we give the two following time curves of E.M.F, in charge
and disoba^a They are deduced from thecurves of F.D- valuee
given by Prof. Ayrt<m and others in the figures opposite p. 661, by
makingallowance for the resistance as euibited on pp. 690 and
592. We indicate for certain marked points in tbe onrvea the
percentage strength of the acid in the general body of the oell ae
deduced iroro the epecifio gravities given on pp. 672 and 673.
■*-
'Jl
'
...
'r.
,
r
-
..._,
_
3.
J^
_J
J
_
[_
Add in gtntral hody of (tU during charge.
Density given.
1-206 .. ._ S
■Tol body qf cell dun'njf dtKharge.
Density given. % H
salphurio acid must Ee continuouetv formed bv tbe Jeoomposition
of the sulphate on each plate, and tnat the aoia must beooroe more
__j concentrated, eepeciall)^ agunst the PbO, plate. If
be_correet, this must give rise to an immaaiabe r^iid
of E.M.F. ; but as the action proceeds the tendency of
the heavy acid to sink towards the bottom of the veasel or to
diffuse into the weaker intermediate acid, will become greatw,
and a point will be reached when the production of sulphnric acid
Mtainst the plate will be nearly counterbalanced by its dispersaL
The E.M.F. will still rise slowly, because the intermediate acid ia
gradually increesingia strength. This evidently is the tols that
IS told by Fig. 4. Beginning with an external acid of 24-6 per
cent., and a' correspooding E.M.F. of about 2-03 volts, there is a
rapid rise— so rapid, indeed, that by the end of half-an-hour the
E.M.F. has become 2-1 (which is about equal to what would be
given by a 40 per cent, acid at-each plate— see Fig. 3), whilst the
intermediate acid has not risen, but Is only 24-6 par cent. The
increase of E.M.F. due to increase of strength of acid against the
t dates then becomes verv slow ; but after about nine hours it is
annd to have risen to what we may took upon as 45 per cent, or
"^
—
-
\
—
;h_
—
s
-1~
-—
^f
"U
_
1-
^
_J
4J
-J
J^
k
more sgainst the PbOg plate, while the intermediate acid in the
cell has risen to 27 per cent. It sabeeqnentlv rises against the
working snrfaoes of the platss to 56, and eventually to at
least 66 per cent., or probabfv much more, though the strength is
little incroaaed in the body of the cell.
When discharge commences, we bave shown that there must be
a very rapid weakening of the acid from diffusion and formation of
lead snlphate, till the losses are fully counterbalanced from the
intennediate acid. Thero will then be no material reduction till
t^e intermediate acid is considerably reduced or prevented
diffusing freely into tbe poree of the plates. This is tbe explana-
tion of Fig. 6, We see the rapid fall of E.M.F., the bulk of which
takes place in the first few minutes (see Ayrton and others, pp.
545 and 540, and our experiments, Fig. 1). After about half an hour
the E.M.F. ia reduced to abont 3-03 volts, indicating abont
2$ per cent H^SOt gainst the plates, while tbe intermediate
ncia is 27-8 per cent. This state of things lasts for soma
hours, but tbe absorption of the free acid that Is in
tbe pores of the plates gradually redaoes the strength there
■ lioc. dl., pp. 661, 646.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 20, 1892.
below that of the iDtermediate liquid, no that after m(tht hoars
the internal acid ia aboat 23 per cent,, while the external atrength
bae sunk only to aboat 26 per cent. The acid against the plates
then declines more rapidly, bo that in four hours more the E.M.F.
iB equal to that which would be f^ven by 7 per cent, at each plate,
while the intermediate acid has scarcely sunk below 25 per cent.
We have already mentioned in sisction [. that when the acid is
very weak the compound 2PbSOi,PbO may begin to form.
Should this be the casa, the acid absorbed per ampere-hour would
be lees than before by about one-third. This ia about what was
found by Dr. Fraokland, and described by him in the discussion on
tbe paper by Prof, Ayrtoo and his colleagues {Journai Institute,
xix., 69S), Dr. Fraiikland shows that in some prolonged dis-
charges tjicre was some soch reduction of the absorbed Eicid, and
that the diminished rate of absorption began when the voltage fell
below 1 '8 — a figure indicative, on our hypothesis, of a weak acid in
the pores of the plates. We have also shown that if throueh
prolonged discharge the acid in the pores has become very weak,
A al^ppage of tbe dischai^ ought soon to bring up the acid
towards what it ia outside, TheE,M.F. ou^ht therefore quickly
to increase to the normal, or nearly so. This rise after rest was
observed in very early days, and has been frequently discussed, as,
for enample, by Messrs. Gladstone and Tribe [" Chem. Secondary
Batta.," p. 28), and by Prof. Ayrton and others.
We have already aeen that if'^ a charged cell be allowed to rest
without discharge, the acid in the interaticee of the Pb plate is
alowly weakened bv ite action on the lead with tbe evolution of
hydr^n gas. The gas will tend to clog the interstices and
impede tbo stronger acid outside from diffusing inwards.* Tbe
M
Fiye.
J..,™™
-
'
„
1
M-
~
•s
.
H
i
^
_
_
_,
_
30
"
■-'
■
1
,,
■
■
■■.,.
'
'
Trr^Be^tnnin^pfCfiarfff
lower strength of internal acid will produce a lower E.M.F. than
would be obtained if the internal acid were of the same
strength as the external. In other words, a diacharee after long
repose ought to commence with a somewhat low E.M.F. But
one effect of discharging will be to remove the impediment to
free diffusion produced by the enclosed gas, and thus tend to
increase the strength of the internal acid, with a consequent
small rise in B,M.F! as the discharge goes on. Now Prof. Ayrton
and hfs colleagues obtained these very results in two instances.
Tbe curves representing one of these we have reproduced. Fig. 6,
from their paper, with two previous normal curves, a and b, for
comparison. In both the instances not only had the P.D. sunk
below the normal during repose, but it never tjuite recovered its
normal value, while the fall towards the end of the action took
place in about two-thirds of the normal time. On subsequent
charging the process of decompoeing the PhSO^ lasted for only
two-thirds of the usual time. All this [Hints to an early clogging
of the pores, and a consequent diminution of the total chemical
action. In this way we explain what the discoverers of the effect
r^ard as a ditEcutty. The real problem that bad to be solved was
•hy did the P.D. go up during di ' .....
during the many days' repose !
(To be eoiUimied.)
DUNDEE ELECTRIC LIGHTING.
It will be seen from our advertisement coliimna that the
work at Dundee will soon commence. The following is the
report of Prof. A. W. B. Kenne<ly upon the scheme of
MeBsre. Urquhart md Smalt, who are tbe engineers to the
Corporation :
Having now received from Measrs. Urquhart and Small their
a pecili cations for this work in their final form, I have pleasure in
forwarding to yon my report on the matter.
1 had submitted to me, in the first place, a copy of your pro-
visional order and other documents, a map of the permiseory and
scheduled districU, Messrs, Urquhart and Small's six apecifications,
(those, namely, for boilers, pipes, etc., engines, dynamos, batteries
and mains), and their drawings of the station arrangement. I
viaited Dundee on the lOth April (after ha%-ing examined these
papers), and there had the advantage of meeting aeveral members
of your body, with whom I diacussad the whole question
informally. I also examined the proposed site for the station, and
walked over the whole of the lines along which it is propoaad to
lay mains, in the company of Mr, Urquhart.
As to tbe general question of the best system to be used, Messrs.
Urquhart and Small recommend a low-tt
system arranged with three- wire mai
batteries in the circuit for light loada,
lion cantinuoae-carrenl
, and having storage
This is the system
ery aucceaa-
ofGlaseow.
dis]ioaed to think that the work at Dundee
carried out on the simpler two-wire plan, which I am ai .,
Oldham for a station very similar in output to that at Dundee,
examining the site of your station in reference to the
districts which are to be lighted,! think it will be more economical
foryou to adopt the three-wire ayatem as proposed,
T'he whole of the buaineaa parts of Dundee, as well as the im-
jrtant residential district to the north-east of the station, can
i very easily supplied from it direct on this system. Shoald it
be required, later on, to supply the Perth-road district, this can
readily be done from the station by Ibe use of a motor- transformer,
with or without a battery of accumulators, to a small local sub-
station fed by mains from the central station.
As to the specifications themselves, I have to say that I have
examined these most minut«ly, and have advised a number of
changes in their details, which have all been carried out and
embodied in the final copies sent to me by Mcmfs. Urquhart and
Small on the 7th Instant. I have pleasure in saying that in tbeir
firesent form I approve them, and think them thoroughly satis-
sctory.
The changes I have referred to were for the most part in details
of the work, and were purely technical, so that I need not trouble
you with any particulars about them. I will only mention, as
points of greater importance, the substitution of single dynamoe
running at 230 volte pressure for pairs of dynamoe in serien at
half that pressure ; a redaction in the size of the two emalleet
dynamos and engines, to adapt them better for economical
working at ths lowest loada ; some considerable modifications in
the specification for batteries (mainly in the direction of demand-
ing increased eSciency) ; and some increase of the amount of
copper in the amaller maina.
I nntice that Lancashire boilers are specified, and that the
specification For the boilers has been prepared by Mr. Michad
Longridge, who is of course an excellent authority on these matters.
No bolters are more satisfactory or more economical than these,
when they are not too hard worked, and where there ia plenty of
room for them, and I understand thatin Dundee you are not troubled
with the extremely sudden fogs to which we are subject in London,
and which render necessary the use of a boiler which allows of a
somewhat more rapid raising of steam. On tbe face of the draw,
ings it appeared te me that the long boilers somewhat nndoly
restricted the space available for unloading and turning the coal
cart«, bat I understand that you have mode actual experimenta as
to the space required by such carts aa are commonly In nse in
Dundee, and have satisfied yourselvea that the apace allowed is
a>aple. Under these circumstances, T have nothing further to aay
on this head. In my own practice, where economy of apace has
been an important matter, 1 have used multitubular boilers (about
8ft. diameter and 14ft. long) of the dry back marine type, sat In
brickwork, and found them to work in every way admirably, and
to be most economical in their results.
The Perret grate, which you propose to employ, I have fre-
quently seen at work, and believe that it has been found very
successful.
I may point out to you that economy in working an electric
lighting station depends very largely indesd on the number of
hours during which the load can be kept fairly heavy, a period
which ia, unfortunately, very abort in any cose. It ia therefore of
great importance to you that you r customers should be as varied as
possible, so that when one section has done with the light another
may be taking it up. In your scheduled arei there appear to be
very few private bouses ; the consumption must take place
altogether in shops and offices. The latter close very early indeed,
and the shops not late. If, therefore, you were encouraged by, or
could encourage, any demand for light in the residential district
above the station, it would be very advisable for you to ext«nd
your mains there, so that you mignt get tbe benefit of the bouse
%hUng after the ahopa, and atUl more after the olhces were
I have not yet seen Messrs, Unjuhart's and Small's awitehboard
apecification, although I have discussed this matter also in general
tetmswith Mr, Urtjuhart, I shall be very happy to examine it if
it is sent to me, but there can be nothing in it which will affect
what I have said in this report, which, therefore, I do not delay.
In conclusion, I need only express the opinion which I have
already expressed in a lett«r to Mr, Thornton, that Messrs. Un|u barb
and Small have proposed to you a well thought out scheme, and
one of a type which has been thoroughly tested and fountl to be
efficient and economical in practical work, and that, as far as I am
able to judge, the system proposed is that best adapted for the
particular conditions of your city.
RnatMU, — Messrs. Hughea and Lancaster, engineers,
Chester, are removing their works to larger and new
premises at Acrefair, near Ruabon. These works wit) be
electrically lighted by a Crompton arc-lighting dynamo,
and the Brockie-Pell arc lamps, 16-hour type, for the
interior of works and foundry. The work has l>een
carried out by Mr. W, Sillery, of Wrexham, to the speci-
fication of tbe consulting engioeere, Messrs. Hughea and
Hill, 5, PoTBonage, Manchester.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 20, 1892.
503
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
CHELSEA ELECTfllCITX SUPPLY COMPAMY, LIMITED.
On Thursday loat week the ordinary general meeting of tlie
iihareUalderg o( this Company took place at the offices, Draycott-
place, under the presidency of Mr. J. IrvinK Coiirbenay.
The Sacretaj^ (Mr. 3. .1. Cluer) haTinf; read the notice con-
vening the meeting,
The Ctutlrmui said : lientlemen, the aceounta before von repre-
sent tlie result of the second complete year of work ; and you will,
I think, agree with mo that, coneiderisg the numerous ohatactca a
uioneor comiiany is bound to encounter, the result a encouratiinir.
Room who rn.ri.t-"-- ""-—- -• --■-.- - ^-.-'5- ^'
this nature will he .. ._ „
as yet in addition t« the debenture interest,
fair way of earning some return on the ordinary eharo capital.
The Rroas revenue is 67i per cent, more than that fir the preceding
year, but the gross proBls are more than three times as large as
those of 1H90. These profits have been mainly used for the
payment of the debenture interest and the extinction of the
BuspeDBe account. Although the improvement is ifreat, we are
convinced that a still greater improvement can be made. Much
has already been done of which the beneSt is scarcely felt in theue
accounts, as the alterations put in hand early in the year were not
completed until December. The result of this was that during tlie
greater pari of last year the work was only carried on under the old
disadvantageous conditions, but the difficulty of supply was also
enhanced by the alterations going on at the same time. Notwith
standing these adverse circumstances, the improvement in the last
three month? of the year, as pointed out in toe Directors' report
{vidr. pp. 4TS-9 of our last issue) has been most marked, the
current having been produced for the last (|nart«r of IS91
ab 33 per cent, less than the average of the previous nine
montlis. I am, however, happy to say that our resident
engineer, Mr. TaltnJt, has succee^uUy overcome all the diffi-
culties of the situation, and has maintained an efficient supply.
J may mention that on December 31 last the expenditure for each
lamp installed was only £2. 14b. 6d,, and it is now less. During
the Wt two years we have obtained an increase of about 20,000
lamps, the total number now Btandine at over 30,000. The lamp
density in the area supplied by the Company is extremely good!
At the end of IS9] there were 4,583 kmps installed for every mile
of street in which the mains are laid, or 2-6 hunps per yard. The
firoportion of houses lighted in the streets in which mains are bid
IS one-i|UBrter to one-third of the total number of houses. The
Eiant is all in good working order, and the cost of maintenance
as been moderate. The maintenance of generating plant is 3 ]>er
cent. : of buildings, just over i per cent. ; of mains, f, per cent. ;
and of meters, 2i per cent, on llie capital expenditure. The main-
tenance of nccuuiulators and accessories amounts to about
'2i per cent, of the capital eiuenditureon them ; but I may remind
you of what I have stated on a previous occasion, that the
mainteoance of accumulators includes the complete renewal of
the plates, which are practically the only ports that wear out.
The cB|>Bcity of the present plant in ordinary weather
is over 40,000 lam^is ; but as, in thlK pan of London particu-
larly, we have to take inU> account prolonged foggy weather,
we have to allow a large margin, which reduces the sate capacity
to, say, 33.'200 lamps. By an expenditure, however, of about
£1,600 this capacity could he increased to 36,200 lamps, and, by
Uyine out a further sum of about £1,000, to 38,.?50 lamps. The
introduction into our system of the continuous- current trans-
former, which was initially arranged as part of the system by Mr.
Frank King, and which was viewed by some authorities aa some-
what in the nature of an experiment, haa proved a permanent
success. Apjiaratus of this class had not previously been used for
the purposes of general electricity supply ; and it is gratifying to
note after two and a-half years' experience thai they wort most
steadily and efficiently, and at a very low Ijgure for maintenance.
These are now made by the Electric Construction Corporation at
Wolverhampton. We have not carried out the extension of our
mains aacontemplnted when I lost addressed yon, and consequently
our income has not been as lar^re as was then estimated, I will
DOW endeavour to give you an estimate of the revenue for this year.
Taking only Che additions to the lights which we now have in view
within our prceentarca, and calculating on the basis of the results
' of IH91, the gross revenue from current alone should amount toover
£\a,VOn, as against £0,681 for ISSl, an increase of 34 per cent.,
without entering upon fresh territory. A profit of 2kd, per
unit on this output would realise a sum sulHcient to pay debenture
interest on— say, £35,iXM)— and a 4 per cent, dividend on the shore
capital. There is, however, yet room for a substantial increase in
the number of lampe where the mains are laid. As I have before
mentioned, nearly all new houses in this district are wired for the
electric light. This iieare upon a question which has been rather
iuUy discussed — the reluctance to take the electric light among a
number of people who do not care to incur the expensu of having
their houscH wired, asiiecially where the leaws have only a short
time to run. During the Srst i|aarter of the year wo have obtained
an increase of over ^,500 lamps. The rovonue account for that
quarter fully bears out tho eetimato 1 have just given you of the
revenue for the current year. Our Hguros are based on a return
per H-c,p, lamp of 9e, per annum, an amount likely to be increased
aa more shojis and trading premises como on the circuit. We are
still giving' our close attention to improvement* in economy of
working, and arc continuouxly taking careful tostd of results. The
supply nos already been acknowledged to bo tho b«st for the con- I
sumcr, sndlit^is second to none in sloodlness and in quality : and
we believe that a systom of supply which is popular with th«
consumer must succeed in the end in giving satisfacCory return!
to the Bhnreholders.
The report and accounts were adopted after a short discussion.
WESTEBK AND BRAZILIAN TELEGRAPH COMPANY.
Mr. W. S. Andrew!, at the meeting of this Company, at Win-
chester House, last Thursday, moved the adoption of the report.
There hod, he said, been an increase in tho traffic, but the money
produced had been diminished to the extent of £16.473 : but thil
was explained by the loss in exchange, the diiTerence between the
last and the preceding year being as between £731 and £19,13.1.
But (or the diiference in exchange the money earned would have
been much larger. The lesser dividend (4 per cent,) was entirely
due to this circumstance. They had been threatened with compe-
tition, but up to now the French line did not appear to have done
them much harm. They had duplicated their lines from end to
end, with the result that they had the capacity of three cables, and
they had now a line of 3,235 miles, wliich h^d been duplicated
without any addition to the capital of the Company. On the
whole, he felt that their financial position was not unsatisfactory.
The public' did not appear to bo dissatisfied with the services
rendered by the Company, and, notwithstandinR opposition, ha
thought they would eventually find out that Cod! in was their
friend, not Short.
Hr, C. W. Bkrla seconded the motion, which was adopted, and
Mr. Copping was suhsacguently elected a director.
WEST INDIA AND PANAMA TELEGBAPH COMPANY.
On Tuesdoy the thirtieth ordinary general meeting of this
Company was held at Winchester House.
ICr. C. W. Eurle (the chairman) moved the adoption of the
report. He did not think, he said, that any shareholder
who was present at the last meeting would be surprised at
the report now presented. They would see that the traffic
receipts for the half-year had decreased by some £7,350 as
compared with the corresponding half of the previous year,
and this was due t« the reduction of rates and the condition
of the West India trade. It was also shown that there had been a
heavy increase in the cost of repairs, amounting to over £15,000.
Of this the sum of £3,119 had been taken from the reserve
cable between Trinidad and Domerara, which completed the dupli-
cating of their svBtem. They had already reaped some benefit
from this. With regord to the future, although they might
reasonably look for an increase in busmess, owing to reduction of
rates, he was sorry to s*y tho numher of words had decreased under
tho new tariff rather than the reverse, and when the condition of
the West India Islands v/as taken into consideration, and it was
borne in mind that only a few of the inhabitants — the principal
merchants — made use of their cable, he did not see much chance of
improvement. He was glad to say they had issued their £80,000
5 per c(int. debentures partly for payment of £50,000 old deben.
tures, and the balance in [lart payment of the St. Vincent,
Barbadoes, and Trinidad-Demerara duplicate cables.
indod the motion, which was carried.
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
Abell's Eleotiioal Bnglneerlng Company, Limited. — Registered
by Barlow and James, 49, Lime-street, E.C., with a capital of
£5,000 in £o shares. Ohject : to acquire the undertaking of an
electrical engineer, hitherto carried on by T. K. Abell and W,
Hughes, at the steam factory, Raglan -street, St. Helens, Lanca-
shire, and to carry on nnd extend the same in all its branches.
Registered without articles of association.
London and BMnpBtead Battaiy Compuir, Limited. — Regis-
tered by H. P. Sfiottiawoode, 32, Craven-street, Strand, with a
capital of £50,000 in £5 shares. Object; to acquire the undertaking
of an electrical engineer and electrician, now carried on by A. VVT
Armstrong, at Fincbley-rood, Hampstoad, N.W,, with a view to
the acquisition thereof : to accept a proposal made by the said
A. W. Armstrong ; and generally to carry on in HampstetuI the
business of an electric light and power company in all its branches.
The first subscribers are :
Sharea
H, J. Peaohey, 32, Craven -street, W.C - 1
W. E. Ruck, 31, Craven-street, W.C 1
M. Halletl, 7, St. Martin's- place, W.C 1
R. (1. Fuller, 7, St. Martin's- place, W.C I
J, Hamilton, 157, West (ieorjfe- street, Ulasgow 1
(.'• J, Rowley, II, Cundaliar-road, Battersea 1
W. ('. Hallett, 7, St, Martin's -place, W.C 1
Tliero shall not be less than three nor more than seven directors,
the first being W. C. Hallett, R, J, 8. Beeton, and A. W. Arm-
strong. Qualification, £606. Remuneration, £600, divisible aa
they themselves shall determine.
504
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 20, 1892.
sharee. Object : to acquire as a goin^sf concern the business of
steel and iron founders, mechanical and electrical engineers, and
millwrights now carried on by William Mather and John Piatt at
the Safford Iron Works, Salford, Lancashire, under the style of
Mather and Piatt, in aocordance with an agreement expressed to
be made between William Mather and John Piatt of the one part
and this Company of the other part, and generally to carry on the
business of mechanical, electric»d, and hydraulic engineers, steel,
brass, and iron founders, millwrights, etc. The first subscribers
are:
Shares.
W. Mather, Salford Iron Works, Manchester 1
J. Piatt, Salford Iron Works, Manchester 1
£. Hopkinson, Salford Iron Works, Manchester 1
C. Mather, Salford Iron Works, Manchester 1
T. Thorp, Salford Iron Works, Manchester 1
J. Milli^an, Salford Iron Works, Manchester 1
A. W. Manson, Salford Iron Works, Manchester 1
William Mather, John Piatt, E. Hopkinson, and T. Thorp are
to be mana^ng directors of the Company. Qualification: W.
Mather and J. Flatt, 1,000 shares ; E. Hopkinson and T. Thorp,
250 sharee. Remuneration, £4,000 per annum, divisible. (Govern-
ing director, William Mather.
BUSINESS NOTES.
West India and Panama Telegraph Company. — The receipts
for the two weeks ended May 15 show a decrease of £489 as com-
pared with the corresponding period.
CltF and Sontli London Railway.— The receipts for the week
ending May 15 were £709, against £665 for the same period of
last year, or an increase of £44. The total receipts to date from
January 1, 1892, show an increase of £1,323, as compared with
last year.
Weatam and Brailltan Telegraph Company.— The receipts
for the past week, after deducting 17 per cent, payable to the
London Platino-Brazilian Company, were £2,635. The receipts of
the West India and Panama Company for the half -month ended
May 15 were £2,666, against £3,155.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1892.
Mat 9.
8743.
8746.
8768.
8805.
8837.
8838.
8864.
8894.
8898.
8966.
8986.
8987.
Improvamants In oonpllngs for eleotrlo wires. Alexander
Shiels, 159, Coldharbour-lane, Camberwell, London.
Improvements In swltohes for electric light work.
Bernard Mervyn Drake and John Marshall Gorham, 66,
Victoria-street, Westminster, London.
Improvements In and relating to mechanloally-drlven
alternating dynamo-eleotrlo maohlnes oomblned with
an elsotrle lamp. William Phillips Thompson, 6, Lord-
street, Liverpool. (Sante Hellebrandt, Austria.)
May 10.
Improvements In dynamo-eleetrlo maohlnes an4 eleetrlo
motors. Herbert Napier Prentice, 47, Lincoln's-inn-fields,
London.
An Improved non-oonsnmahle eleetrlo light oandle or
a non-oonanmahle oandle for arc lamps. Thomas
Armstrong and Charles Hascall, 150, Battersea Pcu-k-road,
London.
Improvements relating to the appUoatlon of eleetrleltjr
to spring meohanlsm. Adolph Edward Vidal, 20, Central-
hill, Norwood, London.
Improvsments In fittings finr eleotrlo lights. John
Smallwood, 33, Southampton-buildings, Chancery-lone,
London.
May 11.
A tarps - writing eleetrlo telegraph. Alfred Edwin
Hardaker, 2, Beech -terrace. Beech street, Fairfield, Liver-
pool.
Improvement in eleetrlo oontaot-making devioe. George
Keith Buller Elphinstone, 86, Canonbury-road, London.
Improvements in or relating to eleotro-medieal belts
and applianees. Alexander £)ox, 18, Buckingham-street,
Strand, London.
May 12.
Improvsments in mains and eondnlts fbr eleotrlo oahles,
and in ocOlars and oonneetlens for same. Dan Rylands,
Shepoote, Stairfoot, Bamsley.
Improvsments in seoondary batteries and aeeomnlators.
Pierre Germain, 98, rue d'Assas, Paris. (Date applied for
under Patents Act 1883, sec. ia3 ; February 23, 1892, being
date of i^pUoatioci in France.)
9002.
9014.
9036.
9056.
9108.
9110.
9132.
91.S6.
9142.
9147.
9148.
9185.
9192.
Improvements in oennsetors and liks appllsnoss
eleotrlo lighting and kindred pnrposss. William
Macpherson and Arthur Jamee Howes, 11, Fumival-street,
Holbom, London.
Improvements in storage batteries. Herbert John
AlUson, 52, Chancery-lane, London. (Patrick Kennedy
and Charles Joseph Diss, United States.)
Improvements in eleotrloal aeeomnlators. Richard
Bradley, Noel Lewis Pocock, and William Brown, 4,
Highgate-rise, London.
Improvement in means for eleetrleally giving rsolpro-
oatlng motion. Henry Squarebrigs McKay, 4, South-
street, Finsbury, London. (Complete specification.)
Mat 13.
Improvements in or oonneoted with eleetrlo battsiisa.
Charles Percy Shrewsbury and John Laskey Dobell, 67»
Chancery-lane, London.
Improvements in mlorophones or transmitters. Guillaume
Arnaud Nussbaum, 29, Ludgate-hill, London.
Improvements in heating and weldbig by ^leetriottF*
Henry Howard, 24, Southampton-buildings, Chancery-lane,
London.
Improvements in or relating to eleetrlo alamm. Richard
Thorn, 9, Warwick -court, Gray's Inn, London.
Improved oomblned bnildlng blook and eleetrlo Insniap
tion. Alexander Leslie Fyfe, 22, Southampton-buildings,
Chancery-lane, London.
May 14.
Improvements in or oonneoted with eleetrlo flttlngs,
such as fose-blooks. oeiling roses, switehes, and the
like. Percy Garniss Ebbutt and John Benjamin Yerity,
128, Colmore-row, Birmingham.
Improvements in swing joints or oeiling oonneotlons, fte
oanylng suspended eleetrlo light fittings, or oomblBSd
eleotrlo light and gas fittings. Percy Garniss Ebbutt and
John Benjamin Verity, 128, Colmore-row, Birmingham.
Improvements in oonpllngs for eleotrlo wires. Alexander
Shiels, 70, Wellington-street, Glasgow.
Improvements in the eleotrolysls of ohloride and other
solutions. Alfred Julius Boult, 323, High Holbom,
London. (F. C. Bromley, France.) (Complete specifica-
tion.)
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
Watt. (Second
(Second
1887.
6294. Xleotrolytlo treatment of sine, eto.
edition. )
1890.
8534. Seoondary batteries, eto. Benardos and others,
edition. )
1891.
8961. Measuring eleotrlo ourrents. Campbell.
9107. Kleotrio light fittings, eto. Barnes.
9555. Kleotrio lamp oarbons. Owynne.
10425. Kleotrioally Illuminating roundabouts, eto. Dickinson.
10548. Winding eleotrloal wires. Sharrow.
12898. Xleotrioal deposition of oopper. Parker. (Second
edition. )
18421. Xleotrio lighting system. Ormes. (Trippe.)
22718. Heating metals by eleotrioity. Burton and Angell.
22720. Heating metal artioles by eleotrioity. Angell.
1892.
4157. icleotrio glow lamp shades. Taylor.
4586. BCagnetlo separators for ore, eto. Thompson and Sanders.
.5652. Kleotrio railway oonduotors. Lake. (Thomson-Houston
International Electric 0>mpany.)
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Name
Brush Co »
— Pref.
India Rubber, Outta Percha k Telegraph Co.
Hoose-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephont
Electric Oonstmotion
Wckstminiiter Electric
Paid.
Liverpool Electric Supply
{!
10
5
5
J4
6
10
5
3
Prlc«
Weduet
d*y
H
2|
20^
H
1
H
8
4i
6i
6i^
ft*
3i
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 27, 1892.
505
NOTES.
Bath is to have fortnightly reports from its surveyor.
Sevenoaks. — The Sevenoaks provisional order has been
revoked.
Crewe. — ^A resolution has been passed in favour of
increased lighting at Crewe.
Hove. — An electric light company for Hove is likely to
come before the public shortly.
Dundee. — The contracts for Dundee electric station
plant are to be sent in by May 31st.
Killamey is to be lighted by the Brush Company, and
£3,000 of 6 per cent, debentures are issued.
Telephone in Unssia. — A long-distance telephone
line is now opened between Odessa and NicolaieS.
Bamet. — The arbitration case of Joel v, Bamet Vestry
is now finished, the decision of the arbitrators being
expected shortly.
Basrrenth. — When next the Wagner enthusiasts visit
the classic town of Bayreuth, they will find the principal
streets lighted by electric light.
Papa is b'ghted by electricity. We ought, perhaps, to
explain that Papa is a town in Hungary, and the contractors
are Messrs. Seich and Jellineh, of Vienna.
Telephones in Stockholm. — There are in Stockholm
at the present time 6,000 subscribers to the telephone
system, paying rates varying from £4. lOs. to £7 a year.
Hall.-:— As will be seen from their advertisement, the
Hull Corporation are inviting tenders for switchboards for
their central station. Tenders are to be sent in by June 16.
Dewsbnry. — Councillor Whiteley and others of the
Dewsbury Lighting Committee have been appointed a sub-
committee to visit the electrical exhibition at the Crystal
Palace.
Coventry. — The Town Council of Coventry are kindly
allowing companies to send in projects gratuitously on the
understanding that the work is to be finally put up to
public tender.
Manchester. — It is expected that in Manchester the
Albert-square will first be lighted by arc lamps, and that
in some other parts of the compulsory area the streets will
be lighted in the same way.
Newport. — A private professional man has started the
ball rolling in Newport in the way of electric lighting.
The example will be extensively followed when the Cor-
poration get their powers in order.
Sonthampton, — A new post office is to be erected at
Southampton ; also a new free library. There should be
electric lighting contracts for these, which are prominent
public buildings, in a town with a new central station.
St. Panoras. — It is stated in an evening paper that it
has been decided in St. Pancras to supply electricity " at
3d. per unit, which is equivalent to gas at 2s. 6d. to 2s. 9d.
per 1,000 cubic feet." We hardly see how it can be done.
Gibraltar. — The lighthouse at Gibraltar is to be refitted
by order of the Trinity Brethren. We expect to hear
shortly with reference to the lighting of the whole fortress
by electric light. The scheme is in the hands of Mr.
Preece.
Cable V. Eleotrio Trams. — A similar conversion
which has just been completed at St. Louis took place last
year at the town of Grand Rapids, where the whole system
of cable trams conduit was taken up and the line converted
to electric traction.
Vienna. — ^The International Electric Company of
Vienna have more than doubled their supply since last
year. They were supplying 33,000 16-c.p. incandescent
lamps on April 30th, 1892, as against 15,000 on the same
date in 1891.
Windmill Uflrhtinflr. — ^The electric installation driven
by the windmill at Carwardine's, in the City-road, was
supplied and fitted with automatic control by the Wenham
Company. We fancy this must be the first windmill instal-
lation on a practical scale yet erected in London.
Willenhall. — The Willenhall Local Board is considering
the advisability of taking its lighting supply into its own
hands, and has appointed a committee to consider the
advisability of purchasing the gas works. The committee
ought to be fully supplied with information upon electric
lighting.
Chiewiok. — A proposal has been made by Alderman
Hardy, of the Chiswick Local Board, that an electrical
expert should be called in to assist the committee which is
now considering the tenders for electric lighting, and
which have now been before the committee for more than
a fortnight.
Chioago. — An electric search-light, 7|ft. high and of
25,000 c p., is being made for the World's Fair Exhibition
at Chicago, and it is expected this light will be visible for
60 miles. A telephone exchange, with 600 subscribers,
being erected, and long-distance communication will be
made with New York, Philadelphia, and other towns.
Leeds. — The transfer of the site for the Yorkshire
House-to-House Electricity Company's central supply
station in Aire -street, Leeds, was completed last week.
The tenders for machinery and underground m&ins were
sent in on Thursday, It is understood that the works will
be proceeded with at once, as soon as the tenders are
accepted.
Exeter. — The consideration of the Exeter surveyor's
report (given elsewhere) is adjourned till June 8 until a
reply is received from the gas company, and in the mean-
while the electric light company will be communicated with
as to hours of lighting. The committee are further
instructed to consider the question of lighting the open
spaces by electric light.
Eaton. — The surveyor, Mr. Stainthorpe, has reported
to the Local Board that he has considered the probable cost
of lighting the streets of Grangetown with the electric
light, as compared with the present system, and estimated
the cost of the necessary plant to be £1,550 for an installa-
tion giving 4,080 c.p. The working expenses woald be
about £300 a year.
Britisli AsBooiation. — ^The sixty-second B. A. meeting,
which is to take place at Edinburgh, will commence on
Wednesday, August 3. Invitation circulars are now being
sent out, and communications should be made to Prof.
A. W. Riicker, at Burlington House, London, W. The
president-elect is Sir Archibald Oeikie, LL.D., etc., and
the president of the Phjrsical Section is Prof. A. Schuster,
F.K.S.
Wiffan. — " Hotspur," in the Blackpool Herald, has an
amusing interview with Mr. 6. Stephen Corlett, of the
Corlett Engineering Company, on electric lighting and
things in general. Mr. Corlett mentioned that his firm had
tendered for the Blackpool lighting, advocating mixed arc
and incandescent lamps, and gave much other information
which filled the genial " Hotspur " brim full with techni-
calities,
606
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 27. 1892.
CbanginBT the Badge. — The National Electric Light
ABSociation, whose proceedings provide so many excellent
papers, have aa badge the woll-known formula C= ^, In
view of the Thomaon-Houston-Ediaon combination and the
proposed amalgamation of the Edison Association with the
National, it is suggested that the badge ought now to be
Ushtninff, — At Derby one of the pinnaclea of St.
Werburgh's Church was struck by lightning on Wednes-
day, and a great hole was knocked in the roof. There was
no lightning conductor. At the foundry of Messrs. Buasell
and Son the lightning struck a flagpole, descended to tho
Storeroom, and tore off one aide of the gas-meter, 3ft. 6io.
in diameter and lin. thick, fortunately without setting fire
to the gas.
Books Received. — We have received " Electric Light-
ing for Marine Engineers ; or. How to Light a Ship by
Electric Light, and How to Keep the Apparatus in Order,"
with 134 illustrations ; by Sydney F. Walker. Tower
Publishing Company, 91, Minoriea, E. We are alao in
receipt of the fifth edition of that well-known book,
" Electrical Instrument Making for Amateurs," by S. R.
Eottone. (Whittaker and Co.)
Western Australia. — Perth, the capital of Western
Australia, is to be lighted by electricity. A tender for the
Beceasary work was lately submitted to the Perth authori-
Kea by the Western Australian Electric Light Company,
And the whole proposal has now been reported upon
tavourably by Mr. W. J. Hancock, the superintendent of
telegraphs in the colony. The tender for dynamos, lam[>B,
and fittings were sent in through Messrs. Crompton and
Co. 'a Sydney houae.
Tempering hy Electricity. — According to a French
paper, electricity is in successful uee at the gun factory at
St. Etienne for tempering gun springs. The latter consist
of steel wire, which is wound spirally, and a current of 23
amperes at 45 volts is passed through it. Rapid heating
results, and when the required temperature has been
reached the circuit is broken and the spring is let fall into
a trough of water. One workman, it is stated, can temper
3,400 springs per day by thia method.
Transmission of Power, — Mr. D. Selby Bigge, of
Mosley, Newcastle, has forwarded to us a copy of an
important paper on " The Practical Transmission of Power
by Means of Electricity," read by him before the North of
England Institute of Mining and Mechanical Engineers. It
contains a deacription of Lord Durham's electric mining
installation, and there are several tables showing the
various efficiences of electrical tranamiaaion of power for
pumping, hauling, and other purposes.
Thomson Meter. — The 10,000f. award for the
Thomson meter at Paris has been returned by Prof.
Thomson to be devoted to public interests. It is stated in
the French technical press that, owing to this award, the
Thomson meter is fast beating the Frager and other meters
out of the field. It is also stated, however, that it is quite
easy to falsify the records of the meter by mann>uvring an
ordinary magnet on the outside. This, it is to be supposed,
ia with a meter not furnished with an iron case.
Royal Military Toomament. — The electric lighting
of the Royal box and the ofhcera' quarters and offices at
the Royai Military Tournament has been carried out by
Messrs. Woodhouse and Rawson, United — Epstein aceumu-
Utors of the " country house or private installation " type
being used ai a reserve. Two balloon lights, and also
"Scott's Rivalling lantern," by which Morse signals are
flashed, have also been provided by this company. Th«
whole of this work was carried out in three days.
Dundee. — When, at the last meeting of the Dundee
Gas Commission, it was decided to advertise for tenders
for electric plant, a small committee was also appointed,
conaiating of Lord Provost Mathewson, Lord Dean of Guild
M'Grady, Ex-Provost Brownlee, Ex-Provost Ballingall, and
Messrs. Foggie, Cargill, White, and Bruce, to consider
further as to details and to report. This committee will
supervise the erection of the central station.
Hammersmitb. — The West London Electric Lighting
Company have written to the Hammersmith Vestry
notifying that the conditions of the consent of the Vestry
to the provisional order were ao onerous that they decline
to proceed further with the matter. They bad deposited
£300 with the Vestry and have aaked for its return. The
Vestry, however, is considering aa to whether all the
money shall be paid hack, and the matter will be reported
upon and discussed at the meeting this day week.
Hanley. — As will be seen by their advertisement, the
Corporation of Hanley invite tenders for the execution of
works required for the supply of electricity within the
borough, in accordance with the Hanley Electric Lighting
Order, 1891. Plans and particulars may be obtained from
Mr. Joseph Lobley, M.Inst.C.E., borough engineer, on
payment of two guineas, which sum will be returned on
receipt of a bona fide tender within the specified time.
Tenders are to be sent in by Monday, 20th June,
Midland Railway, — The Midland Railway Company
have for some time past been engaged in extensive addi-
tions and alterations to their Hunstet goods atation at
Leeds. The total area ia nearly eight acres, and the cost
of outlay is about £170,000. The interior is being fitted
up in a most complete manner, and will be lighted by
electricity. The electric power-house stands next to the
hydraulic -house. The entire electric plant has been fur-
nished and erected by Messrs. Fowler and Co., of Leeds.
Glasgow Tenders. — The following ia the list of
accepted tenders for the Glasgow central station : boilers,
Lindsay, Burnett, and Co., £4,700 ; engines, dynamos, and
steam connections, Latimer Clark, Muirheod, and Co.,
£12,918 ; troughs and service-boxes, R, McLaren and Co.,
rate per ton; laying ditto, Wm. Pollock, per yard; insu-
lators, Jas. Stiff and Sons, per dozen ; copper strip, Elliott
Metal Company, per pound ; cable, Henley's Telegraph Cora-
[>any and India Rubber Company, per yard ; secondary
batteries, Cromptoii-Howell Company, £2,600.
The Fanre Patent in Oermany. — The Supreme
Court of Appeal at Leipsig has just delivered a judgment
confirming the decision of tho Patent Office at Beriin and
establishing the validity of the Fauro patent. Several of
the secondary battery manufacturers in Germany had
entered process in the Patent Office seeking to have the
Faure patent declared invalid on the ground that its main
features had been anticipated. This contention has now
been hnally disposed of in favour of the Fame patent.
This decision will have an important cQect on the secondary
battery business in Germany.
London Sabways. — In the Select Committee of the
House of Commons on Wednesday, the London County
Council's (Subways) Bill was under consideration. Lord
Crawford, Sir F. Bramwell, and others gave evidence with
reference to the objections of the electric lighting com-
panies to be subject to the County Council instead of the
Board of Trade. The committee held that the companies
had made out their case, and decided that they should be
exempted from the provisions of the Bill unless the clause
was so altered oa to make the Board of Trade the con-
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAT 27, 1892.
507
trolling authority. Counsel undertook to alt«r the clause
to this efTect,
Azores Cable.— The trouble over the Lisbon-Azores
cable tender is not yet settled. Only one tender — that
from the French company — was made on the date rei{uired
{Wednesday). This company accepts all conditions laid
down, together with pecuniary advantages. It has the
exclusive right for five years from the French Government
to lay cables between France, Portugal, and the French
colonies. The repudiation of the advatitageous terms of
the British company, it is said, may cause great loss, and
the British Government have interfered, but it is believed
the company will withdraw their claims.
Oxford. — The Oxford central electric station is situated
close to the railway and river, some tittle distance from the
colleges. The machinery is being got into place, three
triple-expansion vertical engines are practically fitted and
ready, though the steam piping is not yet connected. The
three boilers, of the tubular locomotive type, are fitted with
Green's oconomiaer. The foundation rails for the dynamos
are in place, and the dynamos will be shortly erected. The
Bub-station system, with continuous- current motor-trans-
formers, are to be used, it will be remembered, at Oxford.
Silvertown cables are being used for the feeders, and
Callender cables for the mains.
Electric Laimob, — A new electric launch, " Myiomi,"
left Chiswick on Sunday last for Windsor. Her difuensions
are as follows : length 35ft., beam 5ft. 8iD., draught aft
18in, The boat was designed and moulded by Mr. W. S.
Sargeant, of Strand-on-the-Green, Chiswick, for Captain
Homfray, of the Horse Guards, whilst manager last year for
Messrs, Woodhouse and Rawaon, and has been built by
them. The hull is constructed of mild steel, and is fitted
with a very handsome teak cabin. The electrical power
consists of 40 E,P,S, accumulators with high-speed pro-
()eller connected up direct with the armature shaft, running
at about 650 revolutioDS per minute,
Bradford Finn,— We are pleased to notice the con-
tinual increase in the number of electrical firms in the
provinces, which show a healthy state of electrical trade.
The Wray Electrical Engineering Company is the name of
a new company just formed at Soho Electrical Works,
Thornton -road, Bradford, They have commenced business
with the manufacture of dynamos, arc lamjis, and so forth,
Mr, Cecil Wray taking the management of the business.
The company have several installations in progress, in-
cluding the lighting of Rufford Lodge, Dewsbury, for C. B.
Crawshaw, Esq. The company manufacture their own
type of dynamo, which is known as the " Soho," and seems
to be a well-built machine.
Pnrdne Electrical Laboratory. — The town of
Purdue, at Lafayette, Indiana, is very completely furnished
with apparatus. It has a 120-h.p. triple-expansion engine,
\rith boilers ; and a full-size railway locomotive is euspended
in the air, so fitted that all the conditions of actual running
can be obtained and tests taken. There is a gas engine,
turbines, and apparatus for measuring the flow of water.
In the electrical laboratory is an original Gramme machine,
besides Thomson-Houston, Brush, Edison, and other
dynamos, a set of Thomson ampere balances, a Kew
magnetometer, and other fine instruments. Prof. A. P.
Carman holds the chair of applied electricity. There are
in all 640 students in attendance at Purdue University.
Blaokbnm.^Tbere is a sudden change in the attitude
of the Blackburn Town Council on the electric light ques-
tion, and the Corporation will, it is understood, themselves
undertake the supply. The Gas Sub-Committee have
filially reaolved to recommend the Town Couucil to pro-
ceed at once with the project for supplying electricity for
lighting purposes and motive power in the centre of the
borough, in accordance with the scheme which has been
under their consideration for some time. It is said that
the sub-committee were largely influenced in their decision
by a remarkable increase in the number of applications for
the light within the last few days, and the fact which has
been borne in upon them that it will be possible to
supply electricity for the working of light machinery in
many directions.
New Zealand. — We are always pleased to have a
line from electrical friends in the colonies, where we are
sure electricity has a fine field before it. Advices con-
stantly show that progress is being made. Mr, R. H.
Postletbwaite, writing to us from Dunedin, New Zealand,
mentions that he and bis partner, Mr. Stevenson, have
enlarged their business, and are undertaking both electrical
and general engineering, under the name of the New
Zealand Engineering and Electrical Company, They have
taken the sole agency for Crompton's machinery, and have
already introduced a considerable number of their dynamos.
They have installed arc lighting plant at three gold mines,
incandescent lighting plant at four mills and two meat-
freezing works, and are now erecting in the north island
plant to light a private bouse, with all the farm buildings,
and also to transmit the power to the woolshed to drive
the shearmg machines.
Strand Electricity S apply .^The Gatti central
electric station, after having been turned into the Electricity
Supply Corporation, Limited, with a share capital of
£150,000 in £5 shares, of which £50,000 has been issued,
has now come forward for subscriptions for another
£100,000, and £70,000 of 5 per cent, debentures. The com-
pany are already supplying 23,000-8 c.p. lamps. The
existing plant is capable of supplying current for 40,000
8-c.p. lamps fitted, and with extra boiler capacity up to 60,000
lamps. The three-wire Call coder- Webber mains are already
16 miles in length, capable of carrying current for 40,000
8-c.p. lamps, and can be easily increased to a capacity of
75,000 lamps wired. The company supply the Lyceum,
Garrick, Adelphi, and Trafalgar theatres, the Tivoli and
Hungerford music halls, London County Council offices,
St. Martin's Town Hall, besides the Hotel Metropole, Grand,
Charing Cross, Morley's, Haxell's, and many other impor-
tant buildings.
Society of Arts Medal. — The Albert Medal of the
Society of Arts for the present year has been awarded to
Mr. Thomas Alva Edison, in consideiation of the dis-
tinguished services rendered by him to the progress of
electric lighting, telegraphy, and the telephone. This
medal was instituted in 1862 as a memorial of the Prince
Consort, for 18 years the president of the society, and is
awarded annually for distinguished merit in promoting
arts, manufactures, or commerce. It was first awarded in
1864 to Sir Rowland Hili, and amongst the distinguished
men of science who have since received it have been
Faraday, Whitworth, Liebig, Lesseps, Bessemer, Siemens,
Armstrong, Thompson, Joule, Hofmann, and Helmboltz,
In 1887 it was presented to her Majesty on the occasion of
her jubilee. This is the second occasion on which it has
been awarded to an American. In 1884 it was given to
Captain Eads in recognition principally of his great
engineering works at the mouth of the Mississippi.
Henley's. — The recent description of Messrs. Siemens's
works in the MunufticlitTers' Enginemng and Efitoii Journal,
has been followed in the May number with a similar article
on W. T. Henley's Telegraph Works Company, of North
Woolwich, and 27, Martin 's-!ane, Cannon-street, Mr. W.
T. Henley, says the Article, was bom in 1814 at Midburst.
508
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 27, 1892.
Destined for a leather-dresser, he gave up this, taught him-
self the use of lathes and tools, and took to making philo-
sophical instruments, which he sold at a neighbouring
chemist's. At the age of 24 he was noticed by Prof.
Wheatstone, and eventually invented a magnetic telegraph,
which he sold to a company for £68,000. He built his
famous works, 12 acres in extent, in 1853, his first cable
being that from India to Ceylon, laid in 1857. The article
describes the cables manufactured since that time, and
gives illustration of the Henley works, with detailed repro-
ductions of the guttapercha shop, the callendering mills,
braiding shops, guttapercha-covering shops, core-testing
tanks, fitters' shop, stranding and cable-making shop, beside
an interesting view of the cable-tank. The article is
certainly well descriptive of the Henley cable works, and
it seems to be intended to follow the series by others.
The Whitehall Clnb.-^The members — and especially
the electrical members — of this club and a number of their
guests inspected the Electrical Exhibition at the Crystal
Palace on Wednesday last. Messrs. Swinburne and Co. ;
Messrs. Laing, Wharton, and Down ; Messrs. Siemens ; and
Messrs. Crompton and Co. invited the visitors to witness
special experiments, which proved fascinating and instruc-
tive. After the inspection of the exhibits a merry com-
pany sat down to dinner in the Garden Hall. Unfortu-
nately the evening was warm, the diners many, and the
walls inexpansible, otherwise no breath of reproach could
have been heard. However, electrical engineers are
used to crowding, and most of them rather enjoyed the
perfect contact, than otherwise. Genial W. H. Preece
presided, and all the arrangements were admirably carried
out by the ubiquitous, energetic, and unwearied trio form-
ing the committee — Messrs. Albright, Killingworth Hedges,
and P. Sellon. A most enjoyable evening was passed ; the
toasts were not too numerous, the speeches were witty and
wise, and ultimately the company broke up feeling there
was no industry like the electrical industry, and no good>
fellowship like that of the Electrical Section of the White-
hall Club.
Waterford. — The condition of the electric lighting
question at Waterford does not seem to have yet improved
or reached its crisis. Captain Toole tried to raise the
matter at last week's meeting of the Council, but was
eventually ruled out of order, as the Council had been
summoned to discuss the water rate. Alderman Toole
suggested that the town clerk should correspon<l with the
electrical engineer of Dublin as to the probable cost of
electric light in Waterford if the town took up the supply.
This he thought would not commit them to any expense.
Mr. Smith objected, and the Mayor remarked he could not
put the proposition. Mr. Gadogan said they had a lighting
committee who had the matter in such a stage as to meet
Mr. Wharton on the subject, but had not yet come to a
definite point. Mr. Smith stated they had already pro-
cured Mr. Manville's report to the Lord Mayor of Dublin,
and there was no difficulty of judging what the cost would
be to Waterford. It was not fair to take the question out
of the committee's hands and spring the report of an elec-
trical engineer upon them. It was stated that the com-
mittee would report at the next meeting, the Mayor
remarking that they would be glad of any suggestion from
Alderman Toole. The matter was then dropped.
Chamber of Commerce« — The annual meeting of the
Electrical Section of the Chamber of Commerce will be held
at Botolph House, Eastcheap, to-day (Friday) at 2.30 p.m.
The agenda contains the following items : Chairman's
report ; election of chairman and deputy-chairman ; to con-
sider the desirability or otherwise of the section following
the precedent of other sections of the Chamber in convening
the whole of the membership of the section to all future
meetings, appointing special committees to deal with special
subjects ; the attitude of the electrical trade towards the
Chicago Exhibition ; telephone question ; the attitude of the
section towards the Parliamentary Committee who are to con-
sider the whole question of electric railways in London ; the
action taken by the Chamber in reference to the question of
overhead wires, and to consider the reply from the President
of the Board of Trade ; by-laws of the County Council in
reference to overhead wires ; electrical communication on
the coasts ; commercial education ; to consider whether the
section would be prepared to support the commercial
education scheme of the Chamber by subscribing annually
for a prize or prizes to be awarded in the name of the
section; co-operation of the section with the new Mining
Section of the Chamber ; proposed addresses and other
matters. As the meeting is an important one, a full
attendance of members \s invited.
Riveting by Ueotrioity. — The new method of
riveting by electricity which has been put to a practical
test in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, is stated to be a remark-
able success. The apparatus comprises a transformer,
the primary of which is formed of a heavy copper bar
laid parallel to a cell of fine wire, and over the two
are clamped two angular segments of iron, forming
when united a completed iron shell which is claimed to
increase the efficiency of conversion. The structure
creates a current of great volume in the copper bar. In
the end of this bar is mounted an anvil provided with a
regulation screw for moving it up or down, and a follower
provided with a screw. In the circuit of a primary is
placed a choking coil provided with a regulating switch for
cutting in more or less of the coil by which the strength
of the current induced in the secondary may be controlled.
The bars or pieces of metal are placed upon the anvil, and
the rivet dropped in place, the anvil being then screwed up
until the plates of metal are firmly held between it and the
two insulating legs secured to the upper limb of the cop|)er
bar. The face of the bar is covered with insulating
material, except at a central point, where it is left bare,
and forced against the rivet the latter establishes connec-
tion from the upper limb of the primary bar to the lower
limb, the current developing sufficient heat to make an
upsetting of the rivet shank very easy under the pressure
of the screw.
Croydon. — Mr. Perren Maycock, writing to the Croydon
Advertiser, says : '* It will be a matter for surprise and
interest to many to know that there are 11 installations
of the electric light in the borough of Croydon, represent-
ing a total of nine arc and about 733 incandescent lampe.
Subjoined are particulars of these installations : R. W.
Thomas and Co., Parchmore-road, Thornton Heath, May,
1884, 60 incandescent ; W. B. Dell and Son, Factory-lane,
Pitlake, September, 1885, eight arc, 100 incandescent ; Mr.
J. W. Prince, Addiscombe-road, March, 1887, 66 incandes-
cent: Mr. Silvester, Wellesley-road, October, 1888, four
incandescent (in occasional use) ; Mr. F. W. Badford,
S. Park Hill-road, September, 1890, 50 incandescent ; Mr.
Newman, London-road, November, 1890, 83 incandescent ;
Mr. Wilson, North End, November, 1891, one arc, 40 in-
candescent, February, 1892 ; Mr. Docking, George-street^
December, 1891, 30 incandescent; Mr. Lloyd, Shirley-
hurst, April, 1892; C. Brown and Co., Waddon Flour
Mills, will run in June about 200 incandescent ; Messrs.
J. and T. H. Wallis, Wandle Four Mills, 1891, about 100
incandescent. The fact that most of these installations
have been put down since the beginning of 1890, while the
first dates as far back as 188-i, shows how rapidly the light
is now spreading. Users of steam and gas engines are
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 27, 1892.
m
gradually waking up to the knowledge that their spare
power may be used for the generation of electrical energy.
As a whole, however, Croydon has got the reputation of
being a decidedly backward town/'
Perpetual Syphon. — Little improvements sometimes
make all the di£ference between the smooth and convenient
working of an apparatus and the reverse. In dealing with
accumulators, and, indeed, with all kinds of chemical
apparatus, there is one small instrument which is often in
demand for the handling of acids — namely, a syphon. The
principle of the syphon is very old, but there is one
objection to the ordinary syphon which rather militates
against its extended use, and this is that it has to be
exhausted to make it act, and in dealing with acids, to
suck a mouthful of the liquid is unpleasant, not to say
dangerous. There have been several arrangements of
tubes and taps invented to act as self-charging syphons
with more or less success, but there is a seemingly
apparent obstacle to the invention of a syphon which
shall act when once charged without further exhaustion,
without the use of taps, and constructed solely of
glass. Put the question to a scientist, and it is many
chances he would say it is impossible. Nevertheless it
is perfectly possible, for when last at Paris we saw such
syphons, one of which we believe was shown in the Paris
Exposition. It is the patented invention of M. Berlin,
director of the £cole Primaire, rue du March^, Popincourt,
Paris, and consists simply of a bent tube, the ends of which
are not open but dip into a concentric closed tube, enclosing
the end to the extent of, say, 2in. This outer tube is sealed
above to the stem itself, but has a discharge hole a certain
distance, say, 1 Jin. up from the end. The consequence of
this arrangement is that the syphon keeps always charged,
and it suffices to dip one end in the liquid for the other end
at once to begin to discharge.
Glow Lamps. — In the Jmimdl of the Institution of
Electrical Engineers an abstract is given of some researches
by D. Dujon on the life of glow lamps, published in La
Lumih-e Elediique^ and by Fergusson and Center on the varia-
tion of light in glow lamps with current and E.M.F , in the
Elektrotechnische ZeitschrifL These are exp>eriments carried
out in the laboratories of the Cie. Popp at Paris. Four
lamps of each type were tested with various E.M.F.'s and
curves plotted showing candle-power, current, resistance,
and watts per candle-power. Curves are also given of
various (unnamed) lamps showing candle-power, and watts
per candle-power at normal voltage for their lifetime, the
readings being taken daily during the first week, then every
two days, and then weekly. The curve for current with
E.M.F. varies considerably. In some types it is practically
a straight line, in others considerably curved, but in all
good lamps it is regular, any breaks in it showing bad
manufacture. The straight current line is a sign of a hardy
lamp which will stand variations of voltage better than one
with a curved current line. The latter, however, with
steady E.M.F., will often stand just as well as the former.
The candle-power (from 0*8 to 1*2 of the normal voltage)
may be with considerable accuracy expressed in terms of
the volts by the formula, C.P. = K (V - a)'* , where K is a
constant depending on the cold resistance, V the volts, and
a and n constants, which are given for :
Edison-Swan 110 V ... a= 9-76 ... n = 6
Khotinsky 105 V ... a = 46 ... n = 3-5
Cie. Francjaise 110 V ... a» 9*8 ... n-5'7
The author believes that all new lamps have the same
efficiency at the same state of incandescence, assuming the
vacuum to be good ; the only difference between lamps
being their length of life, and the variation of candle-power
with running. Curves of candle-power at normal volts are
given for three lamps throughout their life. One rises for
the first 80 hours, and then rapidly drops, till at last it is
only about half the original value ; the curve being much
like the expansion curve in an indicator diagram, watts
per candle-power rising from 2*5 to 5. The rise at the
beginning does not always occur. A third curve is unfor-
tunately a rare one. The candle-power falls in a straight
line with time, and the watts per candle-power only change
from 2*5 to 3*6. Curves are also given showing how life
and cost of running vary with watts per candle-power.
Messrs. Fergusson and Center's paper deals shortly with
the variation of candle-power with E and C. The values
of a, 6, m, and n are given for certain Edison and Thomson-
Houston lamps, for expressing candle-power in terms of
a C"^ and b E'^ . The principal point of interest is that in
the modern make of lamps, m and n remain approximately
the same as they used to be for older types — viz., 5 and 6
respectively.
The New Telephones for London. — ^A Press demon-
stration was given on Wednesday afternoon of the speaking
qualities of the instruments proposed to be fitted up in
London by the New Telephone Company, of 110, Cannon-
street. A set of telephones had been connected to a room
over the river at Blackfriars, where a telephone operator
was stationed to answer calls and give specimens of the
talking quality of the exchange. We had full opportunity
of testing the instrument, and found the speaking loud and
distinct, with none of the ghostliness and cackle of the tele-
phone we have been made to think normal. We dictated
an imaginary mixed order for '* grey shirtings, sectional
iron standards, and White's Natural History of Selborne,'
which was at once and clearly repeated. After a pas-
sage had been read out from a book, clearly audible,
a recitation from Shelley was given. This was sent out
over. the room by a funnel to make the hearing general,
and while the company present sat down to lunch Dan
Godfrey's band played a selection of music that was fully
heard over the whole hall — the tongueless instrument sang
"When Other Lips," and, of course, the inevitable
" Ta-ra-ra." When Mr. A. B. Bennett proposed the toast
of " The Queen,'' the band burst out with the National
Anthem, and the health of " The Press ' was rapturously
accompanied by " He's a Jolly (xood Fellow," which Mr.
Bennett remarked, as a curious coincidence, was the same
old tune as " Marlbrook s'en va k la Guerre," the present
Duke of Marlborough being their leader in a severe though
civil war for clear speech. It was stated that the number
of promised subscribers had now risen to 2,500, and when
the number amounted to 3,000 the directors were deter-
mined to go to the public for the necessary capital to carry
out the scheme for a perfected telephone system for
London. The first 5,000 subscribers, by-the-bye, are to
have their service at a reduced rate of twelve guineas
a year, instead of fourteen guineas, which is to
be the general rate for London subscribers. The new
*' Mutual " instrument contains a switchbox, a microphone
(fitted with rubber bands where vibration is great), a
magneto-call, desk for receiving messages, and a simple
No. 2 Leclanch^ cell. The line is a twin wire. No. 18 B. W.6.,
with additional wire for the operator, who is cut into
circuit by a handle-switch on the microphone-box. The
operator on the Maun system is always kept listening ;
the subscriber calls his own and the required number — as
" 5 on 4,901 " — and is at once connected up. The service
on this system in Manchester is most excellent, as proved
by the long list of testimonials which the company furnish.
A list of intending subscribers in London is also printed
by the company, who seem to be working their plans
most successfully.
510
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAT 27, 1892.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
The great extenaJon of the electric light duriag the past
few vflBTs hu led to the formatioQ of firms or compaoiee
for Uie special manufacture and wholesale supply of fittings
and electrical stores generally apart from neavy plant.
These stores supply companies congregated in the City
around the classic domains of the Mansion House in the
region of wholesale supply bouses of other kinds, and the
names of some of the older firms are household words
amongst the electrical world. One of the more recent of
these companies is that trading under the fitting name of
Xleotiio Stores, Zilmited, of 51, Cannon -street, and
Bow-lane, and this company hare an extensive and interest-
ing exhibit at the Crystal Palace Exhibition. They hare
Electric Stom C4.'i FliUng SsL
a considerable variety of general electric supplies and
fittings, such as switches, cut-outs, brackets, and pendants,
with a large handsome cut-glass chandelier in the centre of
the stand fitted with incandescent lamps, together with
other tasteful electroliers. A novelty in the way of
casings for electric light wires is certainly worthy the
attention of electrical contractors, decorators, architects,
and others interested in the artistic handling of electric
installations. Instead of the time-honoured wbitowood
moulded casing, we have long strips of bamboo for this pur-
pose. The bamboo is grooved suitably to receive the wires,
and can be cut up into convenient lengths and secured to
the surface of the walla, doors, or ceilings in a pleasing
manner, or can be easily worked into a kind of t^panese
chequered arabesque on the walls or ceilings with a
decidedly novel and artistic effect We understand this
When additional strain beyond the normal is experienced
the spring yields to a small extent, thus preventing the
breakage of the wire, and takes up the slack again when
the weight of snow or sudden strain is removed. This
insulator should prove exceedingly useful, and we under-
stand it is already in use on the London and Brighton
Railway, and in Russia.
The principal exhibit of the Electric Stores Company,
however, is their " E.S," dry battery cell, a cell which has
Iiroved its usefulness in many departments, as shown by
the very lai^ and increasing sale, now amounting to over
5,000 a month. These dry cells are made in all sorts and
sizes — from waistcoatrpocket size, for testing, up to large
cells of several gallons capacity for giving large currenM.
The greatest use for the " E.S." dry cells is naturally for
Tible Bell, with
bell seta, and these are shown in very many shapes io
economical and efficient form, separate or combined. The
complete betl set consists of battery and bell in one case,
with coiled lengths of flexible, and a contact push, exceed-
ingly convenient for bedrooms, or for temporary, as well
as permanent use. These cells have good claim to the title
" dry." They are very dry, as a section down the centre
shows. Their capacity is large, and their lasting power high,
as recent testa have served to prove. One of these cells gave
current for three hours with a drop of '6 to -39 ampere,
and then ran for four hours more at one ampere on short-cir-
cuit. The large cells give as much as eight amperes constant
current at 14 volts, and have been supplied for testing and
calibrating instruments. For sudden demands of large
current, however, small cells of low interior reeistance are
made, which give seven amperes on short-circuit. It is stated
Bunboo Cuing tot ElBctrlc Wlm.
bamboo casing bas received the approval of the fire ofBce
authorities, and in high-class houses could be used with
advantage. Another novel exhibit is Major Fowler's
patent compensating insulator for telegraph and telephone
wires. It is well known that the great trouble with over-
head spans is just with those sudden additional stresses
that come with a heavy fall of snow or a strong wind. If
the insulating supports could be made to yield sufficiently
under extra stresses and take up the slack when the strain
was over, many wires that now break down would stand
perfectly well. The Fowler compensating insulator is an
attempt to supply a simple arrangement of this kind. The
insulator itself, which may be of any ordinary shape, is
made ssparate from the bracket or iron carrier. This carrier
has upon it a strong steel coiled spring which catches in
strong projections inside the insulator, and the insulator can
be twistsd Strongly round before the wire is strained, twisted
around it and fastened, thus providing a yielding support.
that they can be easily recharged as secondary batteries
from a dynamo current when run down. The great advan-
tage is their portability and absolute dryness, Specimens
of these cells are shown mounted for various purposes. A
watch nightlight is a good example of their use. Four
small celb are mounted in a stand on which a watch may
be hung, and a flexible contact allows a little five-volt lamp
to be lighted from the bedside. If used occasionally for
usual requirements, this arrangement will last a year or
even more without recharging. Another application is an
electric table bell shown in the illustration. A small dry
cell is mounted beneath the stand for the table bell, and a
firees contact at the top acts in the usual way. This
ittle bell has proved a general favourite. Another
useful application, by the use of a few cells, drives
a small ventilating fan for household use. A special
small motor is used for this fan, and with half ampere a
9in. fan can be kept running at a thousand revolutions, or
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 27, 1892.
611
with one ampere at 3,000 revoliitioiia. The cost of thia
apjKiratus ia some three pounds or so. The same arrange-
ment is shown driving a sewing machine hy dry cells ;
indeed, the usefiilnees of these cells is almost unlimited in
the smaller applications of electric energy. For instance,
the Electric Stores Company have a plating set, in which
the necessary current is supplied by their " E.S." dry cells.
Thia we show in the illustration, an extremely useful little
Bot of apparatus not only for an amateur or a student, but
in any ahop where small joba of electroplating are required.
The set comprises the necessary cells, with polishing
biushea, scratch brushes, together with acids, solutions for
copper, silver, and gold, and the little tools needed for
plating work. They also show an electromagnetic clock
worked by dry cells, A portable omnibus lamp is supplied
with current from the same source.
A further exhibit of the Electric Stores Company we
ought to mention is Hosier's electric time-moter with either
pendulum or escapement movement. This instrument has
been introduced to aatisfy the need of some check over the
time of burning the light, when a complete electric meter
or supply unit measurer ia not necessary. It indicates
simply the time during which the electric current is being
used, and may come into considerable use in certain circum-
stances where only a. few lights are connected — in amall
bousea, ilata, or for hotola. In this case the current would
be supplied at so much an hour, instead of so much pei
supply ui It We are inforinel that some of these time-
metera have recenti} been fitted U[ in a Paris hotel, where
the proprietor has adopted the electric light and intends
to provide his customers with an easy meana of checking
the supply of light The meter has a switch on the out-
aide, which makes or breaks the contact and sets the clock
going or makes it stop The time is re^,i8tered on a dial as
in an ordinary gas meter and the meter being small and
compact can be placed in any convenient position. The
company also show a large number of their improved make
of Ediaon lampholders manufactured under license from
the EdiBonSwan Company — a neat and well-
holder which they supply to the trade
One most interesting feature of MesBrs. Sirinbame
and Co. 's exhibit is the noted transformer giving nominally
100,000 volts. It ia uncertain bow much higher this trans-
former can be run without breaking down, but, aa recent
experiments have shown, 150,000 volts can be reached. This
high-presBure transformer is exhibited working on a con-
denser, and various oxperimenta which the high pressure
make possible are now regularly performed in the Prince's
Room. Thia kind of transformer has been designed for
commercial use for teating cablee. In order to test a cable
of, say, 0'5 microfarad under 60,000 volts with a frequency
of 100, a current of 12J amperes must be available. A
preaaure of 50,000 volts, and a current of 12'5 amierea,
make 635,000 apparent watts, Messrs. Swinburne and Co.
have therefore patented a method by which it is not
necessary to use a 625-kitowatt dynamo. A large adjust- ■
able choking coil takes or gives nearly the whole 12J
amperes. The dynamo and step - up transformer then
supply quite a small current. There is another way of
doing the same thing. Suppose the dynamo gives 12'5
amperes and a few volts. One terminal of the dynamo
circuitand the outside of the cable are then earthed, or con-
nected together. The other dynamo terminal is connected
SirlDbumc I ElectnMUtic Statloo VoltoiBtsr.
to the adjustable choking coil, which is in series with the
inside of the cable. By thia meana 50,000 volta can be
produced on the insulation of the cable. Messrs. Swinburne
and Co. are supplying a large testing plant to one of the
loading cable makers for teating a mile of cable at a time
under high pressures.
Several alternate-current condensers are also exhibited.
One of these is designed for 100,000 volts, for performing
experiments with the high- pressure transformer. This
condenser is for exhibition purposes, and is not for com-
mercial use. The other condensers are designed to act as
compensators, each supplying the idle current of trans-
formers for 40,000 watu. These condensers are also useful
S13
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAT 27, 1882.
for iocreaaiiig the plant output when arc' lamps areueed;
and it is proposed to use condensers to displace direct-
cnmnt machines for exciting alternators. It will surprise
Biaoy to see how small commercial condensers really are.
t
"■-^.— -.ii^l*
Hactcoitatlc yoltawtw.
Meesn. Swinburne and Go. exhibit some new forms of
inntruments specially designed for central stations. These
all hare the sane appearance, being made with solid
braw ouee and boTelled glaseea of the usual type. For
bigb pressures, such as used in alternate stations, a special
form of electrometer is made. The moving system has two
almost semicircular " needles," and the fixed system has
tour semicironlar boxes. The moving system works on tiny
has no temperature errors. This instrument is shown in
the illustration. The next instrument, which is much the
same in external appearance, is a standard voltmeter for
low-pressure stations. This is a moving coil instrument.
The moving system again runs on friction wheels, which
make the necessary electric connections. The scale in
this instrument is spread out for use in stations
working between 100 and 110 or between 100 and
130 volts. The otlier instrument of this type is a
station wattmeter for alternate currents. This takes 2,000
Limpi uid Tefavnpb WIni.
Bactloiul BtBoduda Pmckad ti
friction wheels, which make electric connection. The con-
trolling force is gravity. The half discs of the moving
system are really cut in such- a way as to give a very open
scale between 1,800 and 3,300 volts. It is needless to
remark that this form of instrument takes no power and
volts and 60 amperes, but reads in watts. It is shown in
the figure. Among laboratory instruments this firm exhibits
their non-inductive wattmeter. This is an instrument
specially designed to give accurate readings in such work
as measuring power absorbed by iron in transformers. It
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAT 27, 1892.
S13
ia a dynamometer so designed that the self -induction errors
are quite inappreciable. Another form of laboratoi^ instru-
ment for similar purposes is also illustrated. This is a
direct-reading eiectroatatic wattmeter. This instrument
can be used either as a wattmeter or aa a voltmeter. The
particular instruments exhibited were made for some
interesting researches on power measuremente, on which
Dr. Fleming has been engaged.
The Bourne form of Thomson reflecting galvano-
meter is designed to fulfil special requirements. The
moving system consiBts of two vertical needles, ao that
the inatrument is truly astatic, and la not affected by
external fielda. As to the rest of the design, the abject
haa been to make a really good inatrumeot at a moderate
price. The coils are well insulated, being embedded in
ebonite, and the coils are supported on corrugated ebonite
pillars. The terminals are Ira through the glass sides of
the case. The coila can be taken on and changed easily,
and an absurdly aimple suspension is used, so that a new
fibre can be put in with ease. This instrument haa all the
advantages of the Deprez instrument, combined with the
extra sensitiveness of the Thomson galvanometer.
on corrugated ebonite pillars. The striking and creeping
distances are thus very great.
The Crystal Palace ia fairly rich in electric lampposts
and standards, from the Brush Company's tubular post,
looking like a morsel from the Forth Bridge, the City stan-
dards, Uesara. Siemena's tall arc lampposts, and the Totten-
ham Court-road handsome standards shown by Meaara.
Johnson and Phillips. But around in the Machinery-room
ia an exhibit of standards of rather a different kind by the
SeoUonal Standards, Limited, of 38, Lime-atreet,
KC, which deservedly attracts notice by contractors and
engineers on the look out for efficient and cheap posts.
These standards are made up of long bars of angle-iron
placed in a three-cornered pyramidal manner with a
tubular ujpright, the whole bound stifi9y together
with suitable bracing-piecea at intervals. This arrange-
ment makea a aimple, thoroughly useful, and not un-
sightly pole or standard for carrying telegraph and
telephone wire, or trolley wires for electric railways,
and also, perhaps its moat suitable service, for carrying
overhead arc or incandeacent lampa. The great advantage
of the sectional standards is apparent at sight -. they are
Tbe Bnuh Rallmr Tnln-LlghUii( Flut.
Messrs. Swinburne alao exhibit a resistaoce-hox. This
differs from the ordinary form in being worked by switches
instead of pluga. The makera hold that the dial form of
bridge with many coils and a small but constant number of
contacts, is more accurate than a plug with fewer coils and
a large and alao a varying number of contacts. This form
of bridge-box is, of course, much quicker to use.
They also show a reflecting moving-coil galvanometer.
Messrs. Swinburne's form ia arranged in a small brass case,
and has automatic gear, which grips the moving syatem
when galvanometer is lifted.
Perhaps the moat interesting instrument is a voltmeter
for 100,000 volts A little consideration will show that it
is not easy to design an instrument to measure a pressure
with a striking distance getting on towarda a foot, and a
voltmeter in which the active parts were a foot from each
other, and a foot from tbe case in every direction, would
be very clumay. This instrument is on the coaxial
cylinder principle. The cylinders are immersed in heavy
insulating oil. The active cylinder is connected to one
terminal, the wire being carried up through a thick glass
tube till it is quite clear of the case. The mechaniam and
the other two cylinders are attached to the other terminal
and are mounted on a glass plate, which ia itself mouDt«d
cheap, light, and can eosilv be dismounted and packed
together in a small apace like a fishing-rod. This adapta-
bility for shipping abroad has already led to a considerable
demand for the standards. A catalogue of various designs,
with drawings of suitable brackets, is to be isaued shortly,
and will bo sent on application to the company at their
London office, or at tifeir works, which are at James-
bridge, near Wednesbnry, Staffordshire. We prophesy a
considerable demand for theae standards.
BAILWAT TRAIN UGHTING PLANT.
A trial view was held at the Brush Company's works at
Belvedere-road, Lambeth, last Friday, of a train electric
lighting plant, a development and improvement of the
Stroudley and Houghton patents. The dynamo, with its
governor, is shown in the illustration. It ia the final
outcome of eight years' experience, during which period
the Brush Company have supplied some 60 dynamos
for train lighting. The special quality demanded ia
a constant E.M.r. over a great range of speed. In
this dynamo, for a range of speed from 600 to 1,600
£14
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 27, 1892.
TOTolutions, the E.M.F. only varies 2 per cent. Tbe plant
is entirely automatic, only requiring trie guard to tarn tbe
Bwitch on or off when degired. As the epeed riasB the
gorernor balls fly out, drawing up the chain which is seen
aboTfl the commutator. Tbia action both cuta in tbe
charging cirunit and also rocks the bruahea to the required
extent, and prevents sparking.
The plant for the lighting of a train consists of dynamo,
cells, and controlling gear, the carriagee being usually
wired with all lamps parallel. The lights can be run from
cells whether the dynamo and train are running or not
The working of the plant is as follows : When the train is
at rest tbe brushes of the dynamo are not on the commu-
tator, and the lamps are supplied with current from the
accumulators. The dynamo is driven from the axle of the
guard's van by means of a belt When the train starts (in
either direction) the brushes are automatically brought into i
the correct position on thecommutatoT by thefriction, and con-
nections are made which give the field the proper polarity to |
suit the direction of rotation. When the train attains such j
a speed as to drive the dynamo at about 500 revolutions :
per minute, which is the speed giving the necessary E.M.F,, '
ready at a minute's notice, but its carrying power and
accommodation is much greater than that of a steam launch
having the same dimensions, and for those reaaons it
appears deatined to supplant tbe steam-propelled craft in
localities where means are at hand for charging the
batteries. An interesting series of trials has just been
concluded, on the Clyde, with an electric launch constructed
especially for harbour service at Sydney by Messrs.
William Denny and Bros., Dumbarton, for Messrs. Sinclair
and Geddes, the results of which, together with a descrip-
tion of the vessel, we have much pleasure in placing
on record. The launch in question is constructed
of wood, and measures 10ft. in length, 7ft. in breadth
moulded, and 3ft 9in. in depth ; the normal mean draught
of water being 2ft 5Jin, when fully equipped, with 30 paa-
BSngere on b(»rd. Ths stem, stern-post, and floors are of
oak, the keel of English elm, the longitudinals of Canadian
elm, while the planking is of pine diagonally laid in two
thicknesses, and the bottom is covered with copper. In
lieu of the customary deadwood, a bronze bracket is fitted
to carry tbe propeller and rudder. A bronze centreboard
is carried, which, when lowered, increases the draught of
a centrifugal governor connects a relay with the cells.
This relay allows the cells to excite the fields, and when
the latter are fully excited the charging circuit is closed by
au automatic switch and charging begins. These operations
occur practically instantaneously. At the same time a small
resistance is automatically inserted in tbe lamp circuit to
compensate for the difference of E.M.F. across the main8,due
to the cells being charged. From this initial charging speed
the dynamo maintains a practically constant pressure up to
the highest speed attained by the train. A remarkable
constancy of E.M.F. is maintained through a long range
of speed variation, actual test showing 57 volts at 1,420,
1,000, and 876 revolutions, only dropping to 66 volts at
620 revolutions, and the dynamo being cut out at 620.
The action is exceedingly neat, the arrangement most
simple, and no flickering is seen on tbe lamps.
A NEW ELECTRIC LAUNCH.
With a certain section of the public the electric launch
^ ra{ndly coming into favour, (fot only ie it always
water by 2ft With mast, sails, and awning complete she
turns tbe scale at five tons. The storage battery consisca
of 76 cells of the E.P.S. pattern, arrang^ along the sides
and bottom amidshipe. ^hcell is provided with 11 plates,
and the current is conducted to a aeries-wound motor,
supplied by Messrs. King, Brown, and Co., Edinburgh. At
full power the working rate of the battery is 40 amperes
with a pressure of 153 volts, and the maximum speed can
be maintained for three hours or half speed for fully eight
hours. The speed guaranteed by the builders was eight statute
miles per hour when running light, and to ensure that this
should be realised economically, the elements of form
embodied in the vessel were selected after conducting a
series of trials with models in Messrs. Denny's experi-
mental tank. It waa imperative also that the design
should possess fair sailing qualities, and the succesa
which attended the recent trials of the vessel speake
loudly in praise of the designers, as both under sail
and electricity their original intentions were in every way
fnUy realised.
The builder's trials were carried out over the measured
quarter-knot at Dumbarton Castle, when the following
results ware obtained.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 27, 1892.
eis
ff^Uk a fvil complement of passtngers.
Mean full draught 2ft. 5|in.
Kumber of passengers on board 30
Speed in statute miles per hour 79
Bevolutions of motor 830
Electrical boras-power 6 65
iFhen nmning light.
Mean full draught 2ft. Sin,
Number of jiasneiigers on board 13
Speed in statute miles per hour 8-15
Kevolutions of motor 845
Electrical horse-pover 6'45
Under sail alone, with the centreboard down, and the
propeller idly revolving, the speed over the measured
quarter-knot was 6 6 miles per hour in a moderate breeze.
With the wind on the quarter the speed registered under
sail and electricity was fully nine miles per hour. Every
The foundry companies have lately put their designers on
their mettle, and have produced something handsome,
efficient, and ingenious.
Messrs. G. Smith and Co., of the Sun Foundry, Glasgow,
and 1, Dowgate-hill, E.G., have perfected and patented
what seems to us a capital idea for the purpose of ascend-
ing as required the tall electric lamp pillars, which will
now be seen more and more in the streets of our towns.
The invention consists of an easy means of ascending the
pillar without the trouble of carrying long ladders, and the
method adopted is to have a simple mechanism braced
inside the shaft of the pillar. By the tur n of a key or »
handle, or the movement of a lever at the outside of base,
steps are shot out from the side of the shaft sufficiently
far to form a safe and strong ladder. These steps when
closed are arranged to be part of the ornament on tlie lamp-
post, or tbey can be made to form part of a plain or fluted
surface. It will be at once seen Uiat several good points
Xaoncb wlLb Salb
possible care was taken on these trials by specialists to
ensure accuracy, and the figures coming from the well-
known firm of Messrs. William Denny and Bros., may be
considered perfectly reliable. Besult» equally satisfactory
to those already alluded to were afterwanls obtained on a
prolonged official trial on the Firth of Clyde, in the presence
of Messrs. A. B. Brown and A. King, Edinburgh, and Mr.
Sinclair, brother of one of the owners.
Our illustrations show the launch first without mast or
awning up, and secondly with the auxiliary sails set.
ELECTRIC LAflP LADDER PILLARS.
It is not only the City engineer and the chief engineer ot
the Post Office who have been exercised in their minds over
the question of a suitable design of electric lamp pillars for
the street lighting. Citymengenerallyhave criticised for and
against the standards now in use, which, if not exceedingly
handsome, are generally acknowledged to be "knobby."
are gained by means of this invention. In the first place,
the steps of the ladder when closed up forms part of the
ornament of the pillar, and this arrangement does away
wdth the necessity of having those hideous-looking knobs
or foot-rests which we often see on the present style
of electric pillar. In the next place, it saves the workmen
the trouble of carrying ladders, or, as is sometimes done,
bundles of sticks to fit into holes made in the castings. At
the same time it gives a much surer foothold, the ladder
being, as it were, part of the main casting, and an additional
advantage is that it cannot show on the sides the mud and
dirt from the workman's feet. We have had the pleasure
of inspecting a model of this new ladder lamppost, and we
feel sure that it has a good future before it. We may
mention that Messrs. George Smith and Co. are one of the
firm who have the contract, and are at present supplying,
for the City of London Electric Lighting Company, the new
electric light pillars which are to be seen erected along
Cheapside, Fenchurcb and Leadenhall and other street.
Their posts are in design much more effective than the old
ones,;_and for excellence of casting ha.ve been much admired.
516
THE ELECTRiCAt EMGINEISR, MAY 2^, 1892.
TtTR
ELECTRICAL ENGINEER.
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Editorial and Publishinsr Offlees :
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Notes 606
The Cryetal Palace Exhibi-
tion 610
Railway Train Lighting
Plant 613
A New Electric Launch 614
Electric Lamp Ladder
Pillars 615
Crowner'a Quest 616
Taunton 617
The Projected Electric RaU-
ways 617
Obituary 517
Sir W. Thomson's Measur-
ing Instruments 518
Experiments with Alternate
Currents of High Poten-
tial and High Frequency 519
On the Changes Produced
by Magnetisation in the
Length of Iron and Other
Wires Garryine Currents 621
On the Cause of the Changes
of Electromotive Force in
Secondary Batteries 523
Metropolitan Electric and
Cable Railways 625
The Fire at Scott's Supper
Rooms 626
Exeter 526
Companies' Meetings 627
New Companies Registered 527
Business Notes 627
Provisional Patents, 1802 ... 628
Companies' Stock and Share
List 628
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CROWNER'S QUEST.
The late fire at Scott's Supper Booms and the
£a.talities connected therewith necessitated a coroner's
inquest, during which the cause or causes which led
to the fire were investigated. With all due respect
to the expert who reported on the coroner's instruc-
tions, we think the report was injudicious and alto-
gether misleading. It deals largely, according to
the Times report, in " might " and " may," in " it is
possible " and " I have seen." Anything is possible
in a report of this kind. No facts of importance
were dealt with ; in fact, any record of facts upon
which to base a judgment except of this kind,
** may " or ** might have been," were not forth-
coming. Through this report, which "may "have
and ** possibly " has no shadow of a foundation, the
public generally have jumped to the conclusion that
the fire was caused by the electric light. The daily
papers have been instructing us upon the ways and
means of carrying out installations — ^in the face of the
jury's verdict ** that the cause of the fire was un-
known." Of course, we shall be told that the report
of the Times is condensed, and that that plague of
all speakers — the reporter — ^has not entirely given the
gist of the remarks. Assume that is so, then all we
say is, so much the worse for the expert, who upon
an occasion of this kind ought not to have left it
possible for anyone to mistake his meaning. Either
he found direct evidemce that the electric wires had
caused the fire, or he did not. As we read the
report he did not, and then proceeded to give a mass
of information upon what " might have been." He
then went on to cast an undeserved slur upon one
of the most painstaking officials of the fire office — an
official whose object is to guard his office from loss.
We have always heard that the official errs on the
side of being too particular, and yet this expert
assumes him to have passed an installation without
knowing the position of the wires and their
proximity to the gas -pipes. Just fancy an
expert saying, " His conclusion was that it was
possible, and he would say probable, that the
fire was caused by a leakage in the electric
wiring, more especially if rats and mice had been
gnawing at the casing." There is a wonderful
incertitude in an if. Any stick may be good enough
to beat a dog with, but we object to the electric
dog being beaten with "may," "if," " possible," and
"might have been." We say there W8bs no
evidence that the fire was caused by electricity, and
that the possibilities and probabilities are altogether
against it being so caused. Up to the present time
it has, we believe, been a boast of the Phoenix Office
that no fire has been traced to an installation
carried out under their rules, and yet we are asked
in this case to assume the Phoenix to have accepted
a risk, and its responsible official to be somewhat
ignorant of the kind and manner of wiring. There
would be just as much plausibiUty in assuming the
fire to have been caused by the use of tobacco, ij
one of the unfortunate lads had lighted a match,
and if he had recklessly flung it aside. We should
like to know why the firm that carried out the
wiring underwent no examination? Much more
might be said on the subject, but perhaps it would
f aE fiLECTRtOAL ENOlNEfiR, MAt 27, 1892.
Hlf
be better to remain satisfied with having put forth
this objection to experts going out of their way to
make surmises when asked to give evidence.
TAUNTON.
According to advices from Taunton, the deal for
the electric light installation has practically been
settled. We have not cared to enter into the
bickering and chaffering between the rival parties —
the one having to sell, the other to buy. Mr. Eapp's
official report we have given in extenso^ and it was
only natural that this or any other report should be
questioned by those who were interested in the sale.
He was not called in to act as counsel for the sellers,
but as a guide to the buyers, and in such a position
was clearly entitled to put his case as clearly as
possible, and to state his definite opinions without
fear or favour. We were, therefore, intensely sur-
prised at some of the criticisms upon the report — but
airs well that ends well. A joint meeting of the
directors of the company and the sub-committee of
the Town Council has been held, and the figure of
nine thousand three hundred pounds agreed upon
as the purchase price. It is intended to obtain
a provisional order. A few words as to the
past may now be permitted. Mr. Massingham has
our sincerest sympathy in that his venture has not
succeeded up to his most sanguine expectations.
He was an early advocate of electricity. He risked
his money, he spent his time, and received the
applause of us all in pushing forward the Taunton
scheme. That scheme roused other people. Many
deputations flocked to see it, and without doubt it
assisted greatly in the revival of electric work. The
station, then, can only be said to have failed as a
commercial speculation, and no doubt Mr. Massing-
ham would himself be the first to admit that the
financial part, as well perhaps as the apparatus,
would differ if the scheme were entered upon de novo
with our present knowledge. It is to be hoped
that the customers which of late hung back with
the company will come forward in support of the
work, which may now be said to belong to the rate-
payers.
to the end of time. London is so vast, and is
growing at such a tremendous rate that additional
facilities must constantly be provided for its internal
traffic, for its morning and evening exodus, and for
country visitors. These facilities cannot well be
provided to pass through the streets, and there
remains overhead or underground routes. Overhead
routes have not found favour — hence it seems con-
clusive that the means provided must be under-
ground. Steam in this particular direction has had
its day. More advantages are to be obtained by
the use of electricity, and so electricity it is to be.
We should not be surprised to find, when the full
text of the minutes and appendix appear, that certain
precautionary measures are suggested. These would
come with additional force from a committee which
includes Lord Kelvin.
OBITUARY.
THE PROJECTED ELECTRIC RAILWAYS.
The report of the Joint Committee of the House
of Lords and the House of Commons has been
issued, and is given elsewhere in this issue. As
might have been expected, there has really been no
real opposition to these schemes. It will be seen
that not only does the committee see no reason for
postponing these lines, but they contemplate that
the construction of these will be followed by the
construction of other lines. They conclude also
that the evidence submitted proves conclusively
the sufficiency and adaptability of electricity as a
motive power for these proposed tubular railways.
After this report we should imagine that, so far
as the Legislature is concerned, the farther pro-
gress will be pretty plain sailing, and the only
rock ahead is that of obtaining capital. Well,
when the Metropolitan Railway was proposed
there were croakers, and croakers there will be
THE LATE MR. P. WILLANS.
It is with the deepest regret that we have to record the
death, through an accident, of Mr. P. Willans, of Messrs.
Willans and Bobinson. The loss of so able a man is of the
nature of a national calamity, rather than a break in the
ranks of mechanical or electrical engineers ; for the late
Mr. Willans had during the past 10 years entered the very
front ranks of those engaged in applying steam power to
industrial purposes. On Wednesday morning, when driving
a new horse from Frimley to the works at Thames Dition,
the horse bolted and Mr. Willans was thrown unfortunately
upon a heap of stones, and death was practically instan-
taneous, although medical aid was quickly obtained. All elec-
trical engineers know how much the firm of Messrs. Willans
and Bobinson have done in constructing engines to enable
dynamos to be directly driven, ana it is an undoubted fact
that Mr. Willans had a very large share in these improve-
ments. Our personal recollections of the late gentleman extend
over almost the whole period of his life subsequent to his
connection with electrical matters. In the early eighties,
if we remember aright, Mr. Masdey and Mr. Grompton
worked together with Mr. Willans in various directions,
and both those engineers recognised the talent of their
colleague and the advantage it would be to the industry if
he would provide steam motors for their requirements.
How ably he performed what was demanded of him
we all know, till Willans's engine and electric governor
are to be met with in installations all over the country —
nay, all over the world. Quite recently the writer and the
late Mr. Willans had an interesting discussion as to the
different requirements from mill engines and from electric
light engines, Mr. Willans explaining that the problem of
a mill engine was a comparatively simple one compared
with that of an electric light engine. As we say, we have
lost one of the ablest members of the engineering profes
sion, lost him in the high day of his life, when his powers
were at their maximum, and when his vast experience would
have been of the greatest benefit to the industry.
THE LATE MR. THOMAS PRIME.
The Birmingham Fost^ in announcing the death of Mr.
T. Prime, says : *' The business which he conducted, first
in conjunction with and later in succession to his father,
was, we believe, the oldest existing house in the plating
trade in Birmingham, having been established as far back as
1818. At the outset, of course, the reputation of the firm
was based on the old method of hand plating, but when the
discoveries of Mr. John Wright made electro-deposition a
success, and when Messrs. Elkington, adding Mr. Wright's
discovery to those which they had previously made,
took out their famous patents, Messrs. Prime also
entered upon the business of electro-plating, in which
they subsequently achieved much distinction. Their
progress was greatly aided by another Birmingham inven«
518
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 27, 1892.
tioD, that of Mr. J. S. Woolrich, who ftave practical applica-
tion to Faraday'a discorery of magneto-electricity. la 1842
Mr. Woolrich patented a machine — a dynamo, in fact — for
producing the magnetic currents in such awayae to be applic-
able to electro- deposition. In the working out of hia ideas,
Mr. Woolrich received special facilities at Messra. Prime's
plating works, and the younger Mr. Thomas Prime assisted
Dim in reducing the theory to practice, and in the actual con-
atniction of the firat magneto-eiectric machine. Thia machine,
which was emploved for a long time by Messrs. Prime —
who undertook toe working of Woolrich's patent — was
Thomson balance, on account of the necessarily enormous
proportions which the movable beam would have, and tha
consequent limitation of range due to possible atiffiieas in the
suspending ligament. The instrument. Fig. 1, was therefore
designed on the plan of the composite balance, in which
the main current pasaea through heavy copper condacton,
while a small current of measured amount is paaaed
through two coils of fine wire at each end of a
movable beam in every way similar to that of the
Thomson centi-ampere balance. The main conductor it
shaped like a double rectangle, as shown in Fig. 2, and the
gfesetitod by ihom a few ye<irs a>;o to the Corpor.ition of
irmingham, and is now de|)Osited in the museum at Aston
Hall. Woolrich's form of the dynamo has long since
passed out of the practical into the historical stage, bnt
the method embodied in bis invention is now in almost
universal use aa a source of electricity for coating metals,
and it is therefore interesting to recall the ahare which, 50
years ago, Mr. Thomiis Prime took in giving the invention
a practical application. It may be interesting alao to
mention that, in 1845, F;*raday himself visited Messrs.
Primes's works, and aaw with great delight the ingenious
use which had been made of his discovery of the principle."
current is conducted in by one eluctrodo round Lhreo aidos
of the top rectangle, then down by a connecting piece at a
round three sides of the bottom rectangle, and out by the
other electrode. The beam, with ita movable fine wire
coila, is aituated between the two rectangles, and its
terminals are braii<rht to two binding screws, shown at b.
The action when the current is passing is the same as in
the other Thomson electric balances. The conducting
rectangles are each made of a thick copper plate, with a
slot about 0 5 cm. wide cut from the right-hand side up lo
within 9 cm. of the left-hand end.
The instrument is, of course, a self-contained wattmeter, and
Fio. 1.— UiiD CoDdDctor ot r*q Tlioimnd Ai
The following is Prof. Percy's account of this historical
visit : " In 1845 I conducted Mr, and Mrs. Faraday to Mr.
Prime's works, where for the first time that great philo-
sopher saw his discovery of tha magneto-electric current
applied to the deposition of silver. I shall never forget the
sparkling delight which he manifested on seeing this result
of his purely scientific labours rendered subservient to a
beautiful art, and to the advantage of others."
SIR W. THOMSON'S MEASURING INSTRUMENTS.
Kilowatt Balanx'e.
These electric watt balances were designed in the first
instance to meet the requirements for a standard balance
to read up to 10,000 amperes. For this purpose it was
not considered advisable to use the ordinary idioitatic
when it is lo be used as auch extra resistances are provided
for the fine-wire circuit. The resistance of the fine-wire coils
is about 10 ohms, and the extra resistances provided are sub-
divided into coils of 400 ohms each, so as to permit of an
adjustment of the instrument's constant from 60 to 2,000
watts per division of the scale. When the instrument ia used
as a standard ampere balance the current values can be
obtained by dividing the watt readings by the KM.F. if a
reliable voltmeter is available ; but for very accurate work-
ing, it is best to measure the actual current passing through
the fine-wire coils on an auxiliary instrument, such as
a centi-ampere balance. By this method great sensibility
can be obtained, as currents up to one ampere can be used,
and so the constant of the instrument can be varied at
pleasure from 01 ampere to 10 or 30 amperes per division
of the scale ; and thus a range of measurement irom O'l to
12,000 amperes is provided. The bsiance, as described
above, is intended for use with continuous current, and it
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 27, 1892.
S19
i< evident that an inBtniment of this kind, if used with
alternating current, would require a special constant to
suit different periods of alternation.
To suit cases where the testing is either on direct or
alternating systems a different type of instrument, called
the alternate-current kilowatt- meter, with a stranded main
conductor, is made. The instrument is shown in Figs. 3
and 4, and it will be seen that the main conductor is of
U-shape, and passes under the movable coils. This con-
ductor is made up of ropes of insulated copper wire,
twisted tt^ther so as to form a cablo with a hollow core.
EXPERIMENTS WITH ALTERNATE CURRENTS OF
HIGH POTENTIAL AND HIGH FREQUENCY.*
BY NIKOLA TRSiJi.
(CuiUinuei/ from pnye 4$S.)
A different arrangement used in some of the bulbs cODBtructied
is illuBtrated in Fig. 23. In tbis instance a non-conductor, m, is
mounted in n piece of common arc light carbon, bo as U> project
some imall distance above the latter. The carbon piece is con-
nected to the leading-in wire passing through b glass stem, which
is wrapped with several layers of mica. An aluminiiim tabe, a.
In order to correct anv effect due to the induction of one
arm of the coil upon the other the twisting is done in a
very careful manner, so that the strands of the cable which
ure inside at the position irarked a are outside at the
EDsition b. The core of the cable is, as mentioned above,
□How, and brau tubes are passed up each arm of the U
as far as the bend. The main object of these tubes is to
prevent any deformation in the cable, but they also serve
as a means of blowing air through to keep tha conductor
cool, if it should ever be necessary to use it for much
heavier currents than those for which the instrument ie
primarily intended.
Gold-Leaf Elbctbosoopb.
The object of this instrument is to provide a convenient
means of measuring approximately differences of potentials
above 500 volts in cases where the accuracy of an electro-
meter is not required, and where its consequent expense
would he a serious consideration. Only one narrow gold
... first againeb the upper surface of carbon, the lower parts being
protected by the aluminium tube. As soon, however, as the non-
conductor, m, is heated, it is rendered good conducting, and then
it beoomos the centre of the bombardment, being most exposed to
the same. I have also constructed during these experiences many
such single-wire bnlbs with or without internal electrode, in which
the radiant matt«r was projected against, or focused upon, the
body to be rendered incandescent. Fig. 24 illustrates one of Ihe
bulbs used. It consists of a spherioal globe, L, provided with a
long neck, n, on the top, for increasing the action in some cases
by the application of an external conducting coating. The globe,
h. in blown out on the bottom into a very small bulb, 'j, which
serves to hoId.it firmlv in a socket, 8, of insulating materinl into
which it is cementecl. A fine lamp filament./, supported on a
wire, ir, passes through the centre of the globe, L. The filament
is rendered incandescent in the middle portion, where the bom-
leaf is used, and this is attached by a clamp to a broad plate
of brass (Fig. 5). This brass plate is supported on a block
of vulcanite from the roof of the cose, and has a binding
screw attached to it. The case of the instrument — with
the exception of the front, which is of glass — is of metal,
and the portion below the leaf is cylindrical in shape,
so as to obtain from its inductive action a wide range of
sensibility. A scale is engraved upon the back of the case,
and another is placed in front close to the glass, in order
that the deflections of the instrument may be read off
without error due to parallax. A hinged frame is attached
to the repelling plate, which folds down over the leaf to
prevent damage during carriage, and when turned up it
acts by repulsion as a guard which effectually prevents the
leaf from touching the roof of the case at abnormally high
potentials. The instrument may be used aa a constant
indicator to test the quality of the pressures between earth
and each of the two primaries of a high-tenuon system.
Fid E.— Gold Lail Electnxcopo.
bardment proceeding from the lower inside surface of the globe is
most intense. The lower portion of the globe, so far as the socket,
S, reaches, is rendered conducting, either by a tinfoil coating or
otherwise, and the external electrode is connected to a terminal of
the coil. The arrangement diagram matically indicated in Fig. 24
was found to be an inferior one when it was desired to render
incandescent a filament or button supported in the centre of
the globe, but it was convenient when the object was to excite
phosphorescence. In many eiperimenls in which bodies of a
different kind were mounted in the bulb as, for instance, indi-
cated in Fig. 23, some observations of interest were made.
It was found, among other things, that in such cases, DO
matter where the bombardment began, just as soon as a
high temperature was reached there was generally one of the
bodies which seemed to babe most of the bombardment upon itself,
the other, or others, being thereby relieved. This quality
appeared to depend principally on the point of fusion, and on the
facility with which the body was "evaporated," or, generally
Lecture delivered before the Institution of Electrical
f^nsineers at the Rmal Institntion, on Wednesday evening,
February 3, 1892. Frotn the JovrmU of the Institution of
Elec^cal Engineers,
830
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAT 27, 1892.
VCMkbig, diMntegrated— meuiii^ by tha Utter term not only tho
tbrowins off of atoioa, but likewise of latf^er lumps. Theobserva-
llon m^e was in accordance with generally accepted nobiong.
In a hif^hlf- exhausted bulb electricitv is carried off from tbe
electrode by independent duriers, whicb are partly the atome, or
moleenlei, of the reaidaol atmosphere, and partly tha atoms,
moleonlaa, or lumps thrown off from the electrode. If the
electrode is composed of bodies of different character, and If one
of theee is more easily disintegrated than the others, most of the
eleotrlcitj snpplied is carried off from that body, which is then
bronght to a higher temperature than the others, and thU the
more, m apoo on increase of the temperature the body is still more
easily disint^rat«d.
It seenu to me quite probable that a similar process takes place
in the bulb even with a homogeneous electrode, and T think it to
be the principal cause of tlie disintegration. There is Iwund to be
some iregularit^, even if the surface is highly polished, which,
of course, is impossible with most of the refractory bodies
employed as electrodes. Assume a point of the electrode ^ets
hotter, instantly most of the discharge passes through that point,
and a minute patch is probably fused and evaporated. It is now
poesible that in consequence of the violent disint^^'ation the
spot attacked sinks in tcmperatura, or that a counter-force is
created, as in an arc ; at any rate the local tearing-off meets with
tbe UmiUttions incident to the experiment, whereupon the same
process occurs on another place. To the eye the electrode appears
Fig. 23.— Effect produced by a tluby Drop.
uniformly brilliant, but there are upon it points, constantly
shifting and wandering around, of a temperature far above the
mean, and this materiaUy hastens the process of deterioration.
That some such thing occurs, at least when the electrode is
at a lower temperature, sufficient eiperimental evidence can be
obtained in the following manner ; Exhaust a bulb to a very high
degree, so that with a fairly high potential the discharge cannot
pass — that is, not a luminous one, for a weak invisible discharge
occors always, in all probability. Nov raise slowly and carefully
t^e potential, leaving the primary current on no more than for an
instant. At a certain point, two, three, or half-adozen phosphores-
cent spots will appear on the globe. These places of the glass
arc evidently more violently bombarded than others, thi& being
dne to the unevenly distributed electric density, necessitated, of
course, by sharp projections, or generally speaking, irregularities
of the electrode. But the luminous patches are constantly
changing in position, which 13 especially well observable if one
managea to produce very few, and this indicates that the con-
fignration of the electrode is rapidly changing. From experiences
of this kind I am led to infer that, in order to be most durable,
the refractory button in the bulb should be in the form of a
sphere, with a highly polished surface. Such a small sphere
oould be manufactured from a diamond or some other crystal,
bat a better way would be to fuse, by the employment of extreme
degnea of temperature, some oxide— as, for instance, zirconia—
into a small drop, and then keep it in the bnlh at a temperature
somewhat below its point of fusion.
Intoreating and useful results can no doubt be reached In tbe
direction of extreme d^rees of beat. How can such hightempera-
tDiee be arrived at ! How are the highest d^rees of heat reached
in nature 1 By the impact of stara, by bigb speeds and collisions.
In a ooUirion any rat« of heat generation may be attaloed. ta r
chemloaJ process we are limited. When oxygen sad bydrogvn
oombine, they fall, metaphorically speaking, from a d«fiiiita
height. We cannot go very far with a blast, nor by oonfining
heat in a furnace, but in an exhausted bulb we can concontrato
any amount of energy upon a minute button. Leaving practica-
bility out of consideration, this, then, would be tbe means which,
in my opinion, would enable us to reach the higkeet tempeiatore.
Butagreat difficulty, when proceeding in t* is way, is eneoBDtered —
namely, in most cases the body is carried off oefore it can fose
and form a drop. This difficulty exists principaUy with an oxids
such as zirconia, l>ecauBe it cannot l>e compressed in so bard a cake
that it wouM not l>e carried off qnickly. I endeavonrad
repeatedly to fuse zirconia, placing it in a cup or arc light carbon
aa indicated in Fig. 23. It glowed with a moat intense light,
and the stream of the particles projected ont of the carbon cup
was of a vivid white ; but, whether it was compressed in a cake
or made into a P^te with carlran, it was carried off before it
could bo fused. The carbon cup containing the zirconia had to
be mounUd very low in the neck of a large bulb, as tlie hoatiDK of
the glass by the projected particles of the oxide was bo rapid tbat
in the first trial tbe bulb was cracted almoet in an instant when
the current was turned on. The heating of tlie glssa by
the projected particles was found to lie always greater ^en tbe
carbon cup contained a l>ody which was rapidly carried off — I
presume because in such cases, with the same potential, higher
speeds were reached, and also ttecause, per unit of time, more
matter was projected— that is, more particles would strike the glass.
The befora-mentioned difficulty did not exist, however, when the
body moant«d in the carbon cup offered great resistance to
deterioration. For instance, when an oxide was first fused in an
oxygen blast and then mounted In the bulb, it melted very
readily into a drop. Generally during tbe prooeas of fusion
magnifioent light effects were noted, of i^iich it would be difficult
Co give an adequate idea. Fig. 23 Is intended to illnstrabe the
effect obsersed with a ruby drop. At first one may see a narrow
funnel of white light projected against the top of the globe, whore
it produces an irn^ulArly outlined phosphorescent patch. Wlien
the point of tbe ruby fuses the phosphorescence tieoomes rery
powerful ; but as the atoms are projected with much greatm"
speed from the surface of the drop, soon the glass gets hot and
"tired," and now only the outer edge of the patch glows. In
this manner an intensely phosphorescent, sharply defined line, I,
corresponding to the outline of the drop, is produced, which
spreads slowly over the globe as tbe drop gets larger. When tbe
mass begins to i)oi1, small bubbles and cavities are formed, which
cause dark-coloured spots to sweep across the globe. The bulb
may be turned downwards without fear of the drop falling off, aa
the mass possesses considerable visooeity.
I may mention here another feature of some interest, which J.
believe to have noted in the course of these experiments, though
the observations do not amount to a certitude. It appeared tbat
under the molecular impact caused by the rapidly-alternating
potential the body was fused, and maintained in that state at a
lower temperature in a highly -exhausted bulb than was the oaae
at normal pressure and application of heat in the ordinary ways —
that IB, at least, judging from the quantity of the light omitted.
(* 7'o 1)6 contintted. )
Talaphone Carrants. — The New York telephone
ayBt«m haa 10,000 im&U dynamcn and 30,000 battery cells
in use for the microphone currents. The batteries have to
be renewed on an average every 11 weeks. One instrument
on the long distance lines obtains its current frora a gas
flame thermopile.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 27, 1892.
521
ON THE CHANGES PRODUCED BY MAGNETISA-
TION IN THE LENGTH OF IRON AND OTHER
WIRES CARRYING CURRENTS.*
BY 3HBLF0RD BmWELL, H.A., LL.B., F.R.S.
The changes of length attending the magnetisation of
rods or wires of iron and other magnetic metala which
were first noticod by Joulef in 1841, and have in recent
rears formed the subject of many experiments by myselfj
have been found to be related to several other phenomena
of magnetism. Maxwell^ has suggested that they sufQ-
ciently account for the twist which is produced in an iron
wire when magnetised circularly and longitudinally at the
same time. The resultant lines uf magnetisation, as he
points out, take a spiral form ; the iron expands in the
direction of the lines of magnetisation, and thus the wire
becomes twisted. Prof. 0. Wiedemann, however, to whom
nearly 31b., was as usual supported by the wire itself, an
arrangement which, for reasons before given, was essential.
The indications of the instrument were read to one ten-
millionth part of the length of the wire, and the wire was
demagnetised by reversals before each single observation.
Exj)erment 1.— The wire first used was of soft com-
mercial annealed iron, 075 mm. in diameter. The changes
of length which it exhibited under the influence of mo-
netising forces gradually increased from 13 to 315 O.G.S.
units, are indicated in the second column of Table I., in
which the unit is one-millionth of a centimetre or one ten-
millionth of the effective length of the wire. The magnetis-
ing forces given in the first column are those due to the
coil only, no account being taken of the demagnetising
effect of the wire. The results are also plotted as a curve
in Fig. 1. It will be seen that the maximum increment of
length attained in a field of about 40 was 11-5 ten-
millionths ; the decrement of length in a field of 316 was
Uie discovery of the magnetic twist is due, appears not to
be satistied with this explanation ,51 believing the effect to
be caused by unequal molecular friction.
The subject of magnetic twists has been very fully and
carefully investigated by Prof. G. G. Knott, and in a paper
published last year in the Tranaactions of the Koyal
Society of Edinburgh (vol. xxxvi., part II., p. 486), he
indicates many details in which the phenomena of twist
closely correspond with those of elongation and retraction.
Assuming their essential identity, and noting that " an in-
creased current along the wire effects the points of vanish-
ing twist in a manner opposite to that in which an increased
tension affects it," Prof. Knott is " inclined to conclude that
the pure strain effects of these influences are of an opposite
character." Now, since the magnetic elongation of an iron
wire is knowu to be diminished by tension, the remark
above quoted amounts to a prediction that in an iron wire
carrying a cnrrent the magnetic elongation would be in-
creased. " We know nothing so far," Prof. Knott observes,
"regarding the changes of length when an iron wire carry-
ing a current is subjected to longitudinal magnetising
forces," and it was with the object of acquiring some infor-
mation on this point and testing Prof. Knott's prediction
that the experiments described in the present paiier were
undertaken. The results show that it was amply verified,
and thus Maxwell's explanation of the twist receives still
further corroboration.
The apparatus used and the methods of observation
were the same as those described in my former papers.
Each specimen of wire examined was 10 cm. long between
the supporting clamps, and the magnetising coil, weighing
•Pa,
aper read before the Royal Society on Ma; 19.
Joule's Soiantific Papers (PhvB. So- ' " — "" '
179, A, p. 206;
, 'Joule's Soiantific Pai.___ ,_ __,_. .
J Phii. Tram., vol. 179, A, p. 206; Roy. Boo. Proe., No.
(1885), p. asS; No. 242 (1886), p. 109 ; No, 243 (1886), p. 267
vol. 43, p. 406 ; vol. 47. p. 469.
g " ElBOtricity and Magnetism," vol. 2, section 448. H Phii.
Mag., Julf, 1886, p. GO.
2'5, while the original length of the wire was unchanged
1 a field of 130.
am.
due to coil.
With 1 ampere
With 2 amperes
through wire.
throagh wire.
3
_
9
11-6
23
7-5
12
34
10
14-5
20
40
11-5
It
50
10
14
20
9-5
12
9-5
16
4
8
0
3-5
8
171
-4
314
250
-9
-5
315
-22-5
.^19
-18-5
333
^
-13
Experiment 2. — A current of one ampere was then passed
through the wire. The current, which was derived from a
Grove cell, was measured by a tangent galvanometer and
regulated by a rheostat which had been approximately
adjusted on the previous day. As soon as the circuit was
closed, the index of the measuring instrument began to
move, rapidly at first and afterwards more slowly, in the
direction indicating elongation of the iron wire. In about
two minutes the index had come to rest again, the number
of scale divisions over which it had passed showing that
the original length of the wire had increased by 310 ten-
millionths. Assuming the coefficient of expansion of th«
iron to be 122 ten-millionths per degree centigrade, thii
522
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 27, 1892.
elongation denoted a rise of temperature (due to current
heating)o{ about 2*5deg. Theexperimentdescribed in the laat
paragraph was then repeated, the several magnetising forces
employed being made as nearly as possible the same as before
by inserting the same resistances successively in the circuit.^
The results appear in the third column of Table I. and in
the middle curve of Fig. 1. The latter shows clearly that
the maximum elongation had risen from 11*5 to 14*5 ten-
million ths, while the decrement in a field of 315 had fallen
from 22*5 to about 17*5.
Expenment 3. — The current through the iron wire was
then increased, by an alteration of the rheostat, to two
amperes. The further elongation of the wire due to the
heating effect of the increased current was very nearly
1,000 ten-millionths, corresponding to a rise of temperature
of 8-2deg. C. This added to 2*5, the rise due to the
current of one ampere, which was passing before, gives
10*7 as the excess of the temperature of the wire carrying
two amperes above that of the room. When the index
had become steady, which happened in the course of about
2^ minutes, another series of observations was made ; but
instead of applying all the previously employed magnetising
forces in succession, alternate ones were omitted. This was
done for the purpose of shortening the experiment, it being
thought doubtful whether the Grove cell which supplied
current to the iron wire would remain sufficiently constant
when giving so strong a current as two amperes. The
results of the experiment are contained in the last column
of Table I., and in the highest of the curves in Fig. 1.
There is again a marked increase of the maximum elonga
tion, and decrease of the retraction in a field of 315.
For the sake of easy comparison, the principal results
obtained with this wire are collected in Table II.
Table II. — Iron Wire, diameter 0*75 mm.
Current
throuG^h iron
wire.
Amperes.
Maximum
elongation in
ten-millionths
of length.
Retraction in
field of
315 C.G.S.
units.
Field in which
length is
unchanged.
0
1
2
11-5
14-5
20
25-5
17-5
12
130
170
200
Experiment 4. — The previous observations were repeated
with another specimen of soft iron wire of greater diameter —
viz., 105 mm. — no current being at first passed through it.
The results appear in the second column of Table III. and
in Fig. 2.
Table III. — Iron Wire, diameter 1*0.5 mm.
Elongation in ten-millionths of length.
Magnetic field due
to coil
C.G.S. units.
With no current
With 2 amperes
through wire.
through wire.
7
1
2-5
16
6-5
11
25
15
34
13
18
40
14
18
50
12-5
18-5
62
12
18
87
10
16
134
3-5
8
213
-5-5
-I
263
- 10-5
-8
338
-20
-16-5
Expeiiinent 5. — A current of two amperes was passed
through the same wire, resulting in an elongation due to
heating of 460 ten-millionths, the temperature of the wire
being therefoie raised about 3'3deg. The former observa-
* Independent readings of the ampere-meter were taken in the two
experiments, and the readings corresponding to the same resistance
in DOth series all agreed witnin a quarter of a scale division, with
the exception of the two last, which showed that the E.M.F. of the
battery— seven Grove cells— was slightly increasing, or rather,
perhaps, that its internal resistance was diminishing. W^hen two
successive readings with the same resistance in circuit differed by
no more than a quarter of a scale division (equivalent to 3 125
units of magnetising force), the mean of the two readings was taken
as givlDg Uie true current.
tions were again made, with the results given in the last
column of Table III. and in Fig. 2.
It will be seen that with both specimens of iron wire
the effect of a current is of just the same general character.
It acts oppositely to tension, heightening the curve of
elongation instead of lowering it. This action is certainly
not due either directly or indirectly to mere current
heating. It has been shown that the thinner wire, even
when carrying two amperes, was only about 10'7deg.
warmer than when no current was passing through it.
Such a small rise of temperature would be quite incompe-
tent by itself to account for the effect in question, for the
elongation curves of a given specimen of iron have been
found to be not sensibly altered when taken under widely
different conditions of temperature. Nor would it exert
any material influence upon the susceptibility of the iron ;
and even if it did, the curves would not be affected in the
manner observed.
It is hardly worth while attempting to frame an expla-
nation until many more phenomena of the same order have
been investigated.
Similar experiments were afterwards made with nickel
and cobalt.
Experiment 6. — A nickel wire was used, the diameter of
which was 0*65 mm. The retractions which it underwent
in fields of gradually increasing strength are given in the
second column of Table IV.
Table IV.— Nickel Wire
, diameter 0*65 mm.
Magnetic field
Retractions in ten-millionths of length.
due to coil.
C.G.S. units.
With no current
through wire.
With 1 ampere
through wire.
Difference.
12
8
8
0
15
10
11
-1
19
15
15
0
28
25-5
25
0-5
36
;u
33
1
50
50
48
2
69
74
72
2
84
92
92
0
99
113
112
1
119
1.34
133
1
l.iO
164
162
2
175
178
178
0
209
196
194
2
256
217
215
2
330
241
240
1
Experiment 7. — A current of one ampere was passed
through the nickel wire, producing a heat elongation of
340 ten-millionths. Taking the coefficient of expansion as
000001 29, this implies a rise of temperature of 2'6deg.
The retractions of the wire when carrying a current are
given in the third column of the table. Remembering
that the figures in the second and third columns denote
millionths of a centimetre, the elose agreement between
the two is very remarkable. I have elsewhere^ fully
described the method of observation adopted, but I may
perhaps mention that each number as set down in the
table was obtained by the subtraction of two readings, the
one taken when there was no current in the magnetising
coil, the other when the current was turned on. The former
or zero reading was continually changing, owing to small
alterations of temperature, the index rarely being abso-
lutely at rest. All the figures were dictated, and when the
second experiment was made, I had not seen the results
of the first. I may add that the table contains all the
observations which were taken in the two experiments.
Though at first inclined to attribute such small dis-
crepancies as exist entirely to observational or instrumental
errors and to infer that the current had no influence what-
ever upon the contraction, I think it appears pretty clearly
from a careful inspection of the differences tabulated in the
fourth column that this is not actually the case. Four
pairs of observations agree exactly ; once only the retrac-
tion with the current seems to be greater than without it,
while in the 10 remaining pairs the retraction is slightly
greater without the current than with it It may, perhaps,
be fairly concluded that the current has a real but very
small effect in diminishing the retraction. Now I have
* PhU, Trans, t voL clxxix., A, p. 218,
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY -27, 189-2.
before remarked that tbe degree of retraction which
nickel undergoes when magnetised is materially affected
by comparatively small changes of temperature ; the retrac-
tion of the same specimen has been found to be greater
in a cold room than in a warm one, at least in fields up to
400 or 500. Probably this is to be explained by tbe
influence of heat in diminishing the magnetic susceptibility
of nickel, the retractions being really the same for tne same
intensity of magnetiHation. Such small eff'sct as appears
to be produced by the action of the current may, therefore,
be accounted for simply by the rise of temperature (2'6deg.)
which it causes.
Tension has a large effect upoil the magnetic retraction
of nickel* ; it is, therefore, the more remarkable that the
action of a current, which operates so markedly upon iron,
should in nickel be practically insensible.
BxperimerU 8.— The results with no current obtained for
a strip of rolled cobalt, the length of which between the
clamps was 10 cm., and the cross-section 1*82 square mm.,
are given in the first two columns of Table V.
Table V.— Cobalt Strip, section 1-82 eq. mm.
RetractioD
in ten-millionthH of lengths.
due to coil.
■---■,- —
C.G.S. unil«.
With DO CDITOnt
With 2 un pores
through strip.
Diffarence,
34
60
2
25
-0-5
M
4
5
-1
100
6
6
0
lie
7-5
S5
-1
153
11
irs
-05
16
16-5
-05
26
27-5
-1'6
EjperimeiU 9. — A current of two amperes through the
strip caused a heat elongation of about 600 ten-mi llionths,
indicating, if the coefficient of expansion is taken as
0*0000126, a rise of temperature of 4-8deg. The retrac-
tions observed while this current was passing are set out in
the third column of the table. From an inspection of the
differences tabulated in tbe fourth column, it appears that
the effect of the current is to increase the retraction very
slightly.
According to Kowland tbe susceptibility of cobalt ia
increased by heating. The small additional retraction
indicated when the current was passing was, therefore, no
doubt due to the increased susceptibility consequent upon
current heating. It may be noted that tension seems to
have no material effect upon the magnetic retraction of
cobalt t
Summary.
In an iron wire carrying a current, the maximum
magnetic elongation is greater, and the retraction in strong
fields is less, tban when no current is passing. The effect
of the current is opposite to that of tension.
The magnetic retractions of nickel and of cobalt are not
sensibly affected by the passage of a current through the
metals. (Tension considerably modifies the magnetic
retraction of nickel, but not that of cobalt.)
ON THE CAUSE OF THE CHANGES OP ELECTRO-
MOTIVE FORCE IN SECONDARY BATTBRIES-I
ICtmdudtdJrom i-agt 50Z. )
Part IV. — CoNriBMATio-sa, Tukoketical and Exferihcntal.
1. Changa of E.M.F. inilh Tino Similar Plattt.—ln thediacus-
aion that followed one of onr papers at tha Pbysicol Society,
Mr. Hibberl mentioned that if two lead plates are pnt into aoicis
of different atrenKths, Mpwrated by a porous diaphragm, a voltaic
current is prodnced on completing t
) have per-
o peroxide plates. The method of experimenting -m
as follows : A divided cell was t&ken, in one compartment of
which wM placed sulphuric acid of alMQt 0*2 per cent., in the
other an acid varying from this strength upwards. A pur of lead
plates was tested in the weakest acid, in order to ascertain that
when immersed in the same liquid they gave no appreciable
E.M.F. One of the lead plates waB then put into a stronger acid,
and the E.M.F. between it and the other determined by the con-
denser method. This was continued up to a 98 per cent, acid,
but B8 the BtronEOr acids act freely on spongy lead the obeerva-
tionB beyond 22-B per cent, were made with two Bolid lead wires.
The results are giren in the following table. The lead plate in
the weaker acid behaved all Ihroaifh liWe PbO, plate to the other,
and it LB therefore called the <f plate.
Table VI.
Acid round Acid round B.M.F. in
lead plate. - lead plate. volts.
0-2
Pero
0-65
0036
0-0*7
0-060
0-066
0109
0-160
0-164
0-204
0-247
A similar series of experiments was made with two peroxide
plates. It is not likely, however, that the 99 per cent, acid had
completely soaked into the meshes of the PbO,. The peroxide in
the weaker acid behaved like a lead plate, and is therefore called
the - plate.
Tablk VII.
&cid round
PbO, phite.
Percent.
Acid round
•t- PbO, plate.
Per cent.
B.M.F. in
volts.
99-0
0-643
Tbe results are delineated in the diagram Fig. 7. If we con-
sider Curve I. in Fig. 7 — which shows the E.M.F. between two
peroxide plates, one of which stands in salphurio acid of only
0*2 per cent., and the other in strengths varying from that
to 99 per cent. — we see at once that, while it rises through
0'5S9 volt, it is far from tieing a straight tine. It rUee very
rapidly at first, then bends over and remains convex till about
IS per cent, is reached, when it becomes somewhat con-
cave till about 67 per cent., after which it is tolerably straight.
If we consider Cur\'e II., Fi^. 7— which shows the E.M.F.
between two lead plates, one of which is in the weak and tbe
other in stronger acids — we find that it follows a similar coarse,
but the ordjnates ore only about two-thirds as large up to about
30 per cent., after which they are relatively much leas. In Curve
II., Fig. 2, we have an experiment in which the peroxide plate
was placed in various strengths of acid, while the lead plate was
retained in acid of uniform strength — namely, 14 per cent. The
observations ore only from 6'5 per cent, to 81 per cent., but
on comparing it within those limits with Curve I., Fig. 7, it will
be at once seen that the curves are identical in form. They are
also identical in the absolute amount of the rise. The difference
between 6'E per cent, and 81 percent, in Curve IL, Fig. 2, is 0 404
volt, whilst m Curve I., Fig. 7, the difference is 0401 volt. In
Fig. 3 we have also obeervatioDS on a cell with the PbO, plate
in various strengths of acid from 43'6 to SB'S per oent., while
the Pb plate remains in acid of 27 per cent. On comparing this
with the simitar portion of the curve in Curve I., Fig. 7, we find
that in both instances we are dealing with a line which is very
nearly straight. The rise of E.M.F. in Fig. 3 between the points
mentioned is 0-307 volt, and in Fig. 7 it is 0-308 volt. The close
similarity both of the forms of the curves and the amount of the
rise in eMb case, shows that the causes of the phenomena repre-
BSnted in Figs, 2 and 3 are the same as thoee in Fig. 7. within the
range of the experiments. There is, however, this essential
difference in the eiperiments— that while in Figs. 2 and 3 we are
dealing With a peroxide plate and a lead plate, in Fig. 7 we are
dealing with two peroxide plates, and tbe results can be dependent
only on the varying strength of acid. This, of course, is a strong
confirmation of the theory we have propounded.
It is worthy of note that in the three experiments just compared
together, the strength of the unchanged acid round the — plate
was very far from being the some, vaiying, in fact, from 14 par
cent, in Fig. 2, and 27 per oent in Fig. J, to 0-2 per cent, in Fig. 7.
In other words, it does not matter what may be the st&rting point.
This iB just what might lie expected if we are dealing memy widi
a diflerential reanlt.
bh
THE ELlCTIltCAL ENGlMlER, MAY 27, 1892.
If we compare Curve I., Fig. 7, wiih tlio lower part of Fip. 3,
■wo obaorvo ft general resemblanco, but with well-marked differ-
ences. In each Case tbsre is the rapid rise at cemmencement,
with the Gubsequent beiid over and convexity. But m I'ig. S the
eoneftvity has nearly disappeared. Thoro is also another tliffer.
«Dce. The rise ia this cane Wween 6'5 per cent, and 411 per cent.
iaO'251 volt. Instead of 0'1S3 volt in Fig. 7. These differeocea are
«Bsily explained. It will be remembered that the curve of Fig. 3
representa the variation of E.M.F. due to increasing strengths of
sulphuric acid about the peroxide and the lead plate at the same
time ; while Curve I., FIr. 7, represents the incroiuting E.M.F.
due tu increased strength of sulphuric acid Holely at the + I'bO,
plate. In Curve II. of Fig. 7 wo ha^e. however, the E.M.F. di
_}Dnd the two plates act«in opposite directions in the . _
BO that the paU.ntial dilTerence between them in any particular
acid will be the arithmetic ruoi of the sejiorate effects. We haie
thcreforo added to the two corves of Fig. 7 together and obtained
the dotted curve, Fig. 7. It will at once bo seen that this com-
bined curve closely resembles theeKporimental curve in Fig. 3, the
concavity having almost disappoared. The rise from 6'5 t« 411 per
cent, has become Ol!? volt, only slightly exceeding that of the curve
in Fie. 3— namely, 0'25 volt. Wo have thus resolved the rise and fall
of E.M.F. during the charge and discharge of a cell into the two
parts of which they are composed, and have determined them
quantitatively.
\
-
=^
n
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
s
-
^
^
-
-
-
,
N
\
V
f
,
'1
N
'
..
■=■
-
-
=^
:;
^
^'
'^
<,
N
■-v
;;
-X
„
^
-
~
<
-
-
_
_J
_
•A
_
_
__
_
_
J
2. Con/iiiHalory Eivleiice/rvmChaHgeain lltsifdaiirt.—ThBgeuorii\
correctness of the conclusions arrived at in Part III. is supported,
not merely by the known changon in E.M.F., but also by cWngeH
in resistance as given by Prof. Ayrton and bis colleagues. It
IB a matter of common knowledge that sulphuric acid varies
very much in roeiatance according to its state of hydration ;
that the resistance is least for acid of about 30 per cent. , though
not changing very widely between 15 and .W per cent.; and that
if the acid became either weaker or stronger than these, its resist-
ance rapidly increases. The following figures, calculated from
Kohlrausch's results, uill give an idea m the variation :
ReiiOanft o/ tulphtrk acid solutions .
%H,SO,. Relative resistance.
2-5 6-73
IS'O 1-33
SO-O 1-00
600 1-35
71-0 3-79
95-0 7'29
Hence we should expect that if the acid against the working
surfaces of the plates is being concentrated during charge, or
greatly woakened during discharge, there would be a marked
increase in resistance. This is exactly what is found to bo the
cose. In the Journal, vol. lU., p. 500, is a diagram showing the
very rapid increase of resistance during charge, the increase
beginning when the E.M.F. (about 2'IT) indicates, according to
our theory, a strength of sulphuric acid against the working
surfaces of the plates of somewhere about -'K) per cent. ; also
showing that at the end of the charge "the resistance is five
times OS great as its minimum value," Thin is particularly
worthy of remark, because every other chemical change would tend
to diminish, instead of increasing, reBistanco. The PoO, produced
on the one plate, and the metallic lead producal on the other, are
both much better conductors than the PbSO, which they replace.
On page 592 of the same volume is another diagram, showing that
when the discharge of this cell was begun the E.M.F. had fallen
from 2 30 to 206 volts ; and the resistance, which at the end of
the charge was 0-0115 ohm, had fallen to 00038 Wonttrihuto
both these falls to the same cause— nomoly, the reduction of the
internal acid to about 30 per cont. Subsequently, the E.M.F.
slowly diminished, while the roaiatance remained nearly the same
for about tivo hours, when the E.M.F. more rapidly tell to I'SS
volta, and the resistance rose to U-005G ohm. This is more tbui
would be osjiectod from the above table of resisUknces, but it mua
be remembered in this case that the other chemical changes — that
is to say, the conversion of PbO, and Pb into PbSO-would also
tond to increase, instead of diminishing, the reaintance. We do not
lay great stress on precise numerical relations in the case of
resistance, as the change in the strength of the acid at the working
surfaces ia only one of uie factors, though an important one.
3. Confirmatiim /rom Mr. Crompfott'u BxperimenU.—iyanog the
discussion on the papers by Prof. Ayrton and his coUeagaes,
Mr. Crompton described two series of experimente n-hich hkve a
charge
edw-
bearing on this subject, ' In the liret series some cells >
■gtw at rates varying from 1 1 to 68 amperes, and Mr. C ~ —
found that the ampere-hours delivered with a given range in P.D.
and Mr. Crompton
jiven range in P.D.
fell from 300 to 12h. He adds : "In every cose the form of the
curve is very definito, the turn-dawn as soon as the E.M.F. falls to
1-8 being very markai." This follows naturally, because at the
higher rate of discharge the absorption of the acid in the poreehae
become much quicker, while the diffusion is scarcely anccted, so
that the weakening process goes on much faster The critical
voltage of I '8 Birojily indicates that the intornal acid has become
very weak. Mr. Crompton's curves and remarks show cleaily that
the fall is independent of theamount of PbO^remainingontheplate.
In the second series of experimente thicker plates were used, and
then he found a greater diminution of delivering capacity at the
higher rates of discharge— in fact, it fell from %K) to 90 ampere-
hours, and at the highest rate the fall t^an almost at once. This
must he the natural result of the greater distance through which
the entoring acid has to diffuse.
4, Conjirmatioii from Tkermo-Cheniietri/, — It is possible to test
the mattor further by applying Lord Kelvin's law as to the relation
between the E.M.F. of a cell and the thermal value of the chemical
actions contributing to it. We hope to go into this mattor mors
fully, and shall content ourselves at present with pointing out
thai the liquid in a secoodary cell is a mixture, or a chemical com-
pound, of two different liquias— sulphuric acid (H,SOi| and wator,
in varying proportions.
The Bi ^
e voltage
■sHjSO^
of a PbOj - Pb cell in which there was nothing but pure H
From the therm o -chemical data which are before us we ai-ijre
at the value 2 627 voltB. Our own determination, by meaos of
the closest approximation which we could make to absolute
H5SO,, 18 2-607 volts. With pure watoroniy in the cell, the calcu-
lated value is I '35 volte, whilst in an experiment we found 1-36
volts. In determining the thermo -chemical values for mixtures of
these liquids, it is necessary to subtract the heat of ditution from
the available energy. On doing this, the calculated and experi-
mental numbers do not agree so well as those already given, until
we come to the most prominent part of the curve at akxiut 6 per
cent, acid. The theoretical vaine at this point, as detormined
from the known heats of combination and dilution, would givo
1 001 volts, the experimental value being I'StI volts. With lower
tigures than G per oent. it is evident that the change is not to be
accounted foronthermo-chemical grounds, unless we admitachaae*
in the chemistry as we approach pure wator — a conclusion already
drawn from other data. It is now easy to understand the
large P.D, re(|uired for charging an accumulator. The current
has to do extra work in concentrating H-SO, at the PbOj ploM,
and the energy eiiuiialent to that work must be obtained from an
increased r,D. tor a dyad gramme equivalent of RjSO, concen-
trated from a 10 per cent, solution to 100 per cent, about I7,<KX)
As other causes have been suggested for the changes in E,M.F.,
It is desirable to consider how fur they are in accordance with the
known factsof the case. It is evidently possible that the phenomena
may be duo to a number of causes co-operating,
1. It might be supposed that tho reduction of the E.M.F. in
discharge is determined by the relative amount of lead peroxide,
which is destroyed or covered over with sulphate of lead, Thi»
is absolutely disproved by the oxoerimentB of Prof. Ayrton and
his colleagues, which are graphically represented in Figs. 1 and 2,
fiven on p. 861, vol. xix. of the Joiiraal of Electrical Engineers.
t will there be seen, from the determinations of the percentage
of I'bO, found on plugs removed, that the formation of the FbO,
in charging, and the decomposition of it in discharging, ie a fairly
regular and continuous action. It gives no indication of the
rapid changes at the commencement and termination of charging
._.! ji-^L ■ ...i.:i_ j.._t__ .1.. ... .1- .. . ,j^^ when
. the rate
steady. This is indicated, as far
OS tho discharge is concerned, by the dotted line in our Fig. 4,
which is reproduced from the paper by Messrs. Ayrton, Lamb,
Smith, and Woods. (Sec aldo remarks on Mr. Crompton's expert-
2. Plants considered that the exceedingly high E.M.F. observed
for the first few minutes on joining up a completely- formed cell,
immediately after its removal from the cbiirging circuit, was duo
te the gaseous hydrogen found on the Pb plate. Gladstone and
Tribe, t while considering that this was (lOeKible, drew attention
rather to the hydrogen occluded by the lead as a possible c&uae,
but stated at the same time that this occluded hydrogen was
ei^ceedingly small in quantity. Frankland showed by a totally
different process thai it was practically nil. But hydrogen on one
plate and oxygen on the other would not, under the conditions,
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 27, 1892.
S26
account for &s much as two volte, aud this cxplacabion is theretore
inadequate.
3. Plants obaerved that a, small quantity of lead peroxide
is formed ou the Pb plate during diacharge ; and Gladstone
and Tribe found iu this a reaBon for the state of oloctrlc
e<iuilibrium baine appronehed before the peroiide on the PbO-
plate iu exhausted, and alan for the faot that partly -diecbarged
accumulators f^ive an increased current after repose (" Chem. of
Sec. Batts," pp. 27, 28). The last action is attributed to the
extreme rapidity with which the load peroxide formed on the Pb
plate must be destroyed by local action, Mr. Roboitaon has
recently added to this the observation that the formation of
peroxide of lead on the Pb plate does not take place till the
E.M.F. has fallen much below the normal value.*
We have ulcDady atttibutod the reauscitBtion of theB.M.F. oo
repose to the inflow o£ the stronger acid to the aoting curfacea of
the oppoeed plates, but we must loolc u)N>n this formation of
peroxide of lead, where it does occur, as contributing both to the
reduction of E.M.F. and ita reauscitation.
4. Preiairf^ ofnomt Form a/" Aaii-e Oxyije.a.''~lt, ia well known
that electrolysed sulphuric acid contains some hydrogen dioxide,
which is probably due to the decomposition of persuTphuric acid
by water, Gladstone and Tribe showed that the presence of
hydrogen dioxide in a cell muift reduce the peroxide of lead— an
observation confirmed by Robertson {Proctedinjn, Royal. Society,
vol. i,, p, lOT). Last June, both Mr. Robertson and Prof, Armstrong
communicated papera to the Royal Society, in which they attach
t;reat weight to the presence ot peroxides in the electrolyte, as
causing a loss of eScieocy. As only abstracts of these papers are
published as yet, we cannot enter into any criticisins of their
experiments. Mr, Robertaon, however, in a lecture to the Society
of Arts {Joiinial, Society ot Arte, xl,,p, 44), sLatea that the " varia-
tiona in E,M,F, appear to depend on which plate hydrogen dioxide
is found at, VVhen present at the peroxide plate it causes a rise,
but when diffused through the acid and present at the lead plate,
it causes a lowering of the E.M F." We therefore made several
experiments with tne addition of hydrogen dioxide (both ordinary,
and carefully purified from hydrochloric acid.) Our arrangements
admitted of adding the hydrogen dioxide to the electrolyte surround-
ing either the peroxide or the lead plate. Some of the determinations
of E.M.F, were made by a condenser, and others by obeervingtha
current through an aetaCic galvanometer in »eriee with a hiEn re.
aiatance. We generally obtained a slight reduction (about 0'(K2 of a
volt), but only what might be fairly attributed to the dilution of
the sulphuric acid. It was atill possible that acme other form of
" active oxygon " might accomplish what hydrogen dioxide had
failed to do ; and in order to determine whether these peroxidised
products of electrolysis have really a dilferent effect at the cathode
and anode, we completed the charging of a pair of platea in a
divided cell filled with 20 per cent, acid, and found that the
" potoxidea," or "active oxygen," existed only round the PbO,
plate. We then reversed the platea in the compartments, so that
the Pb plate stood in the liquid containing the peroxides (HjOj,
peraulpburic acid, etc.). One minute after stopping the charging
current, and immediately before the reversal of the (ilatea in the
coll, the E.M,F. waa ^-185 volU, After the rovomol of the plates,
the E.M.F. was measured by potentiometer at intervals, the results
being given in the following table :
Time after reversal of plates. e" xi i> :„ ..„t»
Minutes. ^■^■^- '" '"'"*'
I 2-163
8 2-081
8 ;. 2-078
10 2-066
12 2-063
15 2't>55
22 2-04*
45 2-031
There was evidently here no anuBiial fall in the B.M.F. The
figures are embodied in the dotted curve of Fig, 1, and on
comparing it with the fall for 18'd per cent, acia they will be
foui^ so similar as to show that peroxidiaed compounds round
Che Pb plat« had no visible effect. In each case the voltage
evidently fell very slowly to a uniform value, and that valueagreea
very fairly with what we find for a 20 per cent, aoid in Fig. 3.
Through the kindness of Dr. H, Marshall, we were able to teat the
efToct of adding some persulphate of potassium to the sulphuric
acid in a cell about the PbO, plate, but without visible effect on
the E.M.F. As far, therefore, as our own experiments are con-
cerned, the B.M.F, appears to depend on the ucid strength of the
electrolyte, and not on the existence or the position of any
peroxidised bodies dissolved in it.
Addendum,
Although we did not undertake this investigation with the
object of improving secondary batteries, there is one suggcation
we should like to make — i.t., tbe desirability of promoting diffu a ion
aa much as possible. We believe that this is becoming more and
more the practice among those who make accumulators, and the
Srevious considerations furniah three reasons for such a procedure,
j is well known that the accumulation of stronger acid at the
lower part of a cell during its working ia disadvantageous. This is
believed to create differences of current density in different parts
of the plate, and we have ahown that it will alao give rise topot«i-
tial dlBerencce of fairly large value on each of the plates, and thus
produce local action and the formation of lead sulphate. This
inequality would be diminished if the diffusion of tbe acid could
be promoted. The fall of E.M.F. at the cloae of discharge leavM
B large fraction of the effective material not acted upon. This to
mainly due to the weakness of the acid against the plates oik
account of the interstices being so much clogged ; and it would be
counteracted to a considerable extent if the difi'usiou could be
increased. When a cell has been diachai^ed at below 1 -S volti,
there occuia the destrnctive action called "scaling," We are
disposed to attribute this to abnormal chemical action arising from
the very weak acid, and, if this be true, increased diffusion would
in this cose also act as a remedy. Such increased dilfusion might
bo obtained either by Kitatlon or by heating, and we thought it
interesting to try the emct of higher temperature on the output of
our small cell. The following curve. Fig, S, exhibits the results of
one experiment \
I
_
■^
9«
K.
^
—
—
-
->
\
^
i
_^
^,^
J
->
The diacharge curvee at the higher temperatures generally
showeil an output some 40 to 50 per cent, greater than those at tha
lower. But it ia evident that the higher temperature would
increase local action and the chemical action of the acid upon the
spongy lead. This might be met by a reiluction in the strength
of acici, but we have not tested at what temperature and with what
strength the advantage is at a maximum. In aildition to this sug-
gestion, electricians will doubtless be able to make other useful
applications of onr conclusion that the changes of E.M,F. in a
secondary battery depend on the strength of the acid that is againali
the working surfaces of the plat«s.
I
METROPOLITAN ELECTRIC AND CABLE RAILWAYS.
The following is the report from the Joint Select Com-
mittee of the House of Lords and House of Cotamons on
the electric and cable railways (metropolia), issued on the
23rd inat. :
1. The committee have met and have considered the matters
referred to them, and have taken evidence submitted to them bj
the promoters of the various schemes, including that of electric
and other engineers, as well as that of representatives of the
London County Council, of the Corporation of the City of London,
of the agent nnd surveyor of Lord Portman's St, Marylebone
Estate, and of the Board of Trade.
2, The railway schemes that have been referred for their cod-
sideration are the following — viz., the Great Northern and City
Railway, the Central London Railway, the City and South London
Railway, the Waterloo and City Railway, the Bnker-atreet and
Waterloo Railway, and tbe Hampsteod, St. Pancras, and Charing
Cross Railways.
3. The committee desire, in their report, to deal separately with
the proposed Great Northern and City RaUway,
4. The main objects of this scheme would appear to he to asaiab
and relieve the great and growing local passenger traffic of the
Great Northern line, and to afford it a new and direct access to
tbe City.
5, It appeara to the committee that there can bo no reason
why this scheme would not be considered by committees in
ordinary course.
6. Further, the committees are ooovinced that direct communi-
cation through London for the main railway lines north and south
of the Thames, wliether for the convenience of their country or
their suburban passenger traffic, would bo of undeniable utility.
And they cannot doubt that the growing needs of those lines wifi,
sooner or lat«r, lead to the conatruction of one or more of such
7, But the purposes which the proposed new linea, with the
exception of the Great Northern and City RaUway, appear
intended and adapted to meet ore of a different character.
8, They are retjuirod to relieve the overgrown passenger traffic
along the chief thoroughfares, to provide for the natural expansion
of London, and to check the congestion of our metropolitan popn
lation by facilitating cheap communication outwards to a circum-
ference which tends constantly to recede.
9. More such lines of communication are required with existing
suburbs, and there is a growing need of their extension stiU
further into the country in order to meet the increasing necessity
for the removal of portions of the popuhition to a greater distance.
10, The lines now in question will afibrd some portion of this
much-needed accommodation ; and where they terminate in or
near the open country they are practically cortAin of turthm
extension to meet the needa of a growing and spreading popu-
I
I
S26
THE ELECTRICAL EKGINEER, MAY 27, 1892.
11. It does not appear to the corainittee. with regard to any of
thoM lines, that their coastruction would prevent that of other
llnee which the necesBiliea of London may from time to time
require, and tfaey aeo no reaaon, thereFore, for advieinf; the poet-
ginement of the con aide ration, in ordinary coiin<e, of any of these
iiu.
12. With regard to the <|uegtioii whether underground railways
vorbed by electricity or cable traction arc oalcutatod to aiTord
Sufficient accommodation tor the present and future probable
traffic, the committee report that the evidence submitted to them
Wan conclusively in favour of the auSiciency and the speciot
adaptability of electricity na a motive power for the propoaod
Vinderground tubular railways, whilst the method of cable traction
appears alio Ui be of recognised utility, eapecially in the case of
Bt«ep erodieut lines.
13. The proposed routes appear to be fairly aatiafactory, aon-
Bidered as an instalment of the more complete accommodation
tioceaaary to meet the conBtantly increosint; needs of Ijondon.
14. As to the terms and conditions under which the subsoil
should be appropriated, the committee re|iort that in the caae of
t>rivBte property, not under the public streets, it appears to them
to bo desirable that the companies should be allowed to ac<|uire a
wayleave. instead of purchasing the freofaold of the land, subject
to the t«rms of the Lands Clauses Acts as to compensation.
15. In the caae of public streets the committee think it
«K|>edient that the companies should be em|»«'ered to pose under
the Btrcete at sufficient depth without payment of compensation
for the wayleave. In consideration of such free passage ihe com-
tnittoe adviae that the companies should be put under obligation
to furnish an adoijuate number of cheap and convenient trains.
10. The evidence submittod to the committee on the [|iieation of
the diameter of the underground tubes containing the railways,
has been distinctly in favour of a minimum diameter of llEt. (iin.
17. The committee have directed the minutes of evidence taken
before them, («gether with an Bp|>endix, to be reported.
THE FIRE AT SCOTT'S SUPPER ROOMS.
Lost Friday at the inquest on the lire at Scott's Supper Rooms,
Coventry street, Haymarket, Mr. BdwBrd C»rstenaen Segimdo,
A.1I.I.C.B., of '28, Victoria- street, Westminster, said ho was a
consulting electrical encineer, and that, under the coroner's
instructions, he lisited the premisea, IS and 19, Coven try -a treat,
W., on Monday tost. In the house No. 18 there waa not very much to
be observed of^the electric lighting, for the reason that the ravages
of the 6ro had destroyed all traces of the manner in which the
wiring had been carried out, but there seemed to him but little
doubt that the fire originated in that house, on the ground floor.
He had reason to think there was a poasibility of the fire having
originated at the top of the staircase leading down from the
ground floor to the lavatory iwlow. At that point the electric
Iwht mains passed for a distance of about lOft. or lift,
anngside the gas main For about 3ft. the pipe would touch
the casing which enveloped the main wires, and for the remainder
ol the distance the pi|ies would be about '2in. from the castnc. Of
course the pipe might have been bent during the fire ana come
into contact with tiie casing. It was absolutely impossible to say
that the lire originat«d through a leak, but he held that it woa
quite possible for it to have originated through a leak going to
earth from the mains through the gas-pipe, because the circuit
eupplyiog the electric light ran down there. It was a ijuefition
vbethor that would bo euflicient to cause a fire, but he had on
more than ono occasion himself snen a casing enveloping wires
charred by a similar leak, also on on attematecurrent circuit.
He was therefore led to the belief that the po^ibtlity of its
having caused this flre was not remol*. From what he
observed he thought it very jKHsible that the fire originated near
that place. Ho was influonced in his conclusion by the fact that
the manager reported to him that on several occasions ho had bad
to execute repairs to the wiring on account of the ravages of rata
And mice. He did not think there was anything in the installation
itself BO seriously hod as to leave room for any charge of reprehen •
eible neglect on the |>art of those whose duty it was to carry it
out, but sufficient care, perhaps, had not always been taken to
avoid metal pipes, a very important point in taying wires, espe-
cially on alternate circuits. Although the insulation was of
a very fair character ho thought it should have been done
more heavily, particnlarly tho mains which carried the
wiree near the gas - pipes. It was extremely unwise to
systematically conceal wires behind [wnels, under floors,
or in plaster. These mains were so concealed, and the
gas- pipes plastere<l over. Ho understood that the building
was insured in tho Pha-nix office, but he was sure that their
inspector would not have tolerated the position of tho wires if he
had known their proximity to tho gas-pipoa. Owing to tho syste-
matic way in which wires were concealed, there wore no moans of
jud^ng of the danger of the work. auiijiosinB the lire to have
originated through a leakage, tho accident could have been
avoided had the installation been subjected to an int«lligenl
from time lo time. Hod the wires in the first instance
designed so as to facilitato examinations and re|iair, any leak
have been discovered, localised, and remedied. His conclusion
was that it was possible, and ho would say probable, that the
Qre was caused by a leakage in the electric wiring, more
eepecially if rats ana mice had been gnawing at the casinc. It
sMmed to bo possible to put into a houra an electric instoUation
which might be of the greatest possible danger, and it was to be
regretted that there wore no set rules lor the performance of the
work. The danger of fire from on installation of the electric light
appeared to be greater than in the case of an escape of gas, there
being no smell. This was a matter which was well doeeninE ol
public attention, as the electric light was being so laigely used.
Tho jury, after some deliberation, rotumed a verdict to the
effect that tho boys died from suffocation, and that the cause of
tho fire was unknown. They added that they considered the fire-
men and police to have done their utmost at the firo, and to bo
deserving of praise, — The Tirw-t,
EXETER.
REl'ORT OF CITY SURVEYOR ON ELECTRIC LIGHTING.
City Surveyor's Office, Exotor, 8th May, 1892,
ELKTRIC LlOHTlNd.
Gentlemen,— As instructed by your resolution of the 13th nit,, I
have the honour to submit the following report on the li^htine of
the stroete by the electric light— enumerating each section of it
according to that on the agenda-paper of the Council meeting of
the same date.
1. The area comprised in tho second schedule of the proviaional
order tor Exeter includes : That part of Now North-rosil between
I^ngbi-ook street and the railway bridge, London Inn-square,
Sid well -street. High-street, Fore-street, New Bridge -street, Bed-
ford-street, Bedford-circus, Queen-street, Gandy-atreet, Mivrtjn'a-
lane, South-atieet, North-street, and Paris-street. The numberof
gas lami>B within this area, exclusive o( thosa in courts or side
streets, is l'i7. made up of nine large and 1 IS small lampe ; this
is the number strictly within the compulsory area, and does not
include the himp that would be displaced were the area lighted
by the electric light. The total inclusivo cost of tho gas lighting
of the area is as Mlows :
1185ft. lampsatTSs £430 14 0
8 large lamps at ■201s. Sd 80 13 4
1 large lamp at 248s. 8d 12 8 8
£523 16 0
This sum does not allow of a comparison between cost of the two
systems to bo mode, and fat that purpose 1 went over the area
and noted the number of gas lamps that could be dispensed with
wore the area lighted by electricity ; the number that could bo
dispensed with is 182, including nine large lamps, the annual cost
of which is —
173 at 73b. f631 9 0
8 at 201s. 8d 80 13 *
1 at 2Ms, 8d 13 8 8
£724 11 0
This sum is the annual coet of tho lamps within and surrounding
the compulsory area, which could be extinguished were the area
installMl with the electric light. It may be as well to explain hen
that the rouncil provide and fix the himpposts and tho lanterns ;
the gas company lay on the gas, provide and keep in rej>air a
governor and burner, light, extinguish, clean, keep in repair tho
lanteroB, and paint the lampposts, their charges being :
Gas £2 IS 11
Lighting, cleaning, and extinguishing 0 II 3
Paintine and repairs 0 2 4
ReiHiring governors 0 0 6
X-l 13 0
They are luiicl a further sum of 3s. 6d. for each new governor. I
am ol opinion that an annual charge for repairing governors is
unneceasary.
'2, To light tho compulsory area according to the plan submitted
herewith will require X arc lamps of 1,200 c.p. nominal each. The
distance apart of these lamps is taken as the maximum at present
for gas lam|is~viz,, TSyarda, There was an expression of opinion
given at the meeting of the Council, which, 1 think, was generally
agreed to, that if the whole aroa could not be t^htod, the main
streets and open places might, 1 have prepared a second plan
showing the projtoaed positioos of S2 arc lamps from St, Ann a to
Bxe Bridge and from Uigh-stroet to the Obelisk, Queen-street.
3. Tho estimate of the rirst cost of lighting the area ia based on
the supposition that theenergy is obtained from tho Exct«r Electric
Lighting Company, and no item ia included for conductors,
58 posts erected at £15 £840 0 0
Sa lamps at £15 840 0 0
£1,680 0 0
The estimate for installing 32 lamps, as shown on plan No. 2,
would he OS follows :
32lampposleat£15 £*80 0 0
.3-2 lamiis at £15 480 0 0
£960 0 0
4. I have obtained tenders from the Exel«r Electric Lighting
Company, but find that at present they are not in a position to
supply electricity to more than ^2 arc lamps, or wonid prefer for
the present lo tender only for tho smaller number of lampe. The
two tenders from them are eubmittod herewith :
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 27, 1892.
627
. Tender No. 1.— For liehtinK by oleccricity certain Btreetn within
Ibe Eiatcr Electric Lielit Company's, Limited, compulsory area ;
The Council to provide and maintain the neceBBiiry Limps and
posts, with brackets and globes. The ompiuiy to provide all
necessary cables, machinery auffioient for supplying elentricity to
32 arc [amp;, distributed over the following places : Sidwell-
street. Eadtg;Bt«, London Inn-sqaare, High-street, Bed ford street.
Bed ford -circus, Queen -street, Poreatreet, Uandy- street, New
Bridge- street. The lamps of the Thomson -Houston type, and
each of 1,200 nominal cnndle-power, and placed in positions
approved by the city surveyor. The lamps to be burning an
average of nine hours per night. A contract to be entered into
for a period of seven yoarf. Price, £22. lOs, per lamp per annum.
Tender No. 2.— For Hdhting by electricity certain streets within
the Exeter Electric Light Company's, Limited, compulsory area :
The Council to provide and malntaio the necessary posts and
bracketa ; the company providing all necessary lumps, globes,
cables, and machinery sufficient for supplying electricity to 32
arc lamps, distributed over the following places: Sid well street,
Eostgate, London Innsiiuare, High-street, Bedford -street, Bed-
fard-cirouB, Queen-street, Fore-street, Handy -street, New Bridge-
street. The lamps of the Thomson -Houston type, and each of
1,2M nominal candle-power, and placed in positions approved
by the city surveyor. The lamps to be burning an average of nine
hours per nighb. A contract to be eutered into for a period of
seven years. Price, £24 per lamp per annum.
In No. 1 the price per lamp per annum is £22. lOs, In No, 2
the price is £24. At this rate the annual cost of installing the
whole area would be—
Interest on outlay £1,680 at 4 pot cent £86 4 0
Interest on outlay of lamps £S40, 6 percent. 50 8 0
56 lamps, nt £22. 10s 1,260 0 0
£1,377 12 0
Aocordine to the second estimate the annual cost would be the
tame. The present cost of the lamiis that would be displaced is,
as already stated, £724. lis., bo that the cost of the electric
ligbtinB throughout the whole aiea, according to plan No. 1. is
about double that of the present gas lighting, bub there is no
comparison between the efficiency uf the two lights. To light the
main streets and open places the annual cost would be —
Interest on outlay at 4 per cent. £10 4 0
Interest for hkmpe, 6 per cent. 28 16 H
32 lamps at £22. lOs 720 0 0
£768 0 0
By bonder No. 2 the amount will be £7S7. is. The number of gas
lamps that would be diBplaced by this number of arc lamps is 127,
bbe annual cost of which is £517. 7s. 4d. If you would be satislied
with the present posbs, which are of the type ordinarily used, the
cost mieht be reduced by £160, or £5 per post.
5. When the streets are to be opened up for laying the electric
conducUirB ande[^round, it would be advisable to lay down the
cable for the arc street lighting at the same time. If bbe Council
decide, is a few years' time, that the lighting of the main streets
is not satisfactorily done by gas, and adopt the electric light, the
extra cost of breaking up the streets to lay the necessary cables
will be an item in bbe annual expense. I do nob see much prospecb
of a reduction in the cost of electric lighting- It will vary in
diflerenb localities accoiding bo the price of fuel, and also as U>
whether the first inception of the central stations provided for
economical machinery, but I think before loni; communities will
adopt it even at the increased cost over gas. The recent improve-
mentsinetectrical machinery have been mostly in mechsnical details.
The dynamo has not hiul bo go through the slow evolution or the
trial and error that has brought the steam engine to ibe present
piteh of proficiency ; bbe principles involved were soon understood,
and machines recently constructed are about as jierfect as we may
hope ever to find them. If the posts already erected in the streets
are accepted, it would reduce the first cosb considerably ; and, aa
already stated, they are of the type usually adopted, with the
exception of a slightly more ornamental cost iron basis— when
stripped of the wires and crais-arms, and litted with ornamental
l&mp brackets, they would not look so objectionable as they do at
preeenb. I End that the Exeter Electric Lighting Company are
now waiting the decision of the Council to begin to lay their cables
for private lighting underground.
That an increase in the illumination of the main thoroughfares
is deeirahio is, I think, admitted ; and, whether the streets are
lighted by gas or electricity, there is evidently a demand for more
light. —Your obedient servant, Donald Cameron.
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
ELMORE'S FHENCH PATENT COPPER DEPOSITING
COMPANY, LIMITED.
An extraordinary general meeting of this Company was held on
the 21st inst. at the City Terminus Hotel, Major Charles Jones in
the chair, to consider the con firms', ion, as a special resolution, of
the resolution that was passed on the 22nd ult. for increasing the
capital of the Company to £400,000, by the creation of 100,IKiO new
abares of £2 each, entitled to priority on a distribution of assets,
and " entitled, out of the profits available for distribution in each
year, to a preferential dividend of 10 per cent, and to a further
dividend of 5 per cent, after a dividend of 16 per cent. h»a been
paid on the existing shares."
The Chalrmui stated that very good reports bad been received
from France, where everything in connection with the ('omjiany'*
aflairs was progressing well. Trial orders hod been sent in from a
targe number of house?, including some of the best finnn in France,
and the orders were now being executetl. Ho concluded by pro-
posing the confirmation of the resolution.
Blr Jwnaa Kaelunxle seconded the motion.
In answer to questions, the dulrman staled that they bad only
been able gradually to bring Ihe tanks into operation. M. Secr^-
tan's report at the lost meeting was correct— that there were 80
tanks, turning out about lUO tubes a day, at work. The output
was perhaps now a little better than it was then ; but the actual
make of tubes for sale had not increased very materially, as they
had been occupying some of the tanks, which would otherwise
have been making tubes for sale, in coating mandrels with copper,
and in making duplicate mandrels, so that they might be in a
position to go on steadily with the work, and not have to stop the
tanks while waiting tor mandrels. They were turning out about
nine to ben tons a week, and they would go on increasing this
output. The factory was erecttsd to produce, ultimately,
80 tons a week. M. Socri'^tan was pushing on as fast
aa he could, but he did nob want to push on too fast, and
make things badly. The secretary would be glad to give any
sbareholder information at the ofCces respecting uie returns which
were received periodically from France. The amount of prefer-
ence capital they had allotted was between £24,0(10 and £25,000,
and the Board were in addition making arrangements, under
certain conditions, which bbey saw no difficulty in fullilling, for
placing another £40,000. The amount they had taken power f-
pay for the extra expenses of the factory, and b
ig capital to goon with. They had power to borroi
money up to half the capital, and the Directors had exercised their
provide working capital to {
nthcriby in the inberesba of bhe sbarehoUlerB. He o
vben thev would be turning out 300 tons a month.
The resolution was then put to the meeting and couSrmed.
NEW COMPANIES REGISTEBED.
CamtirldgB Eteotrle Supply Company, Umtted, — Registered
by E. Flux, Leadbitter, and Paterson, 144, Lead en hall -street, E C,
with a capital of £.tO,000 in £10 shares. Object: to acquire the
powers, duties, and liabilities granted to and imjiosed upon the
mayor, aldermen, and burgesses of the borough of Cambridge, by
bbe Cambridge Electric Lighting Order, IS!M), and to carry on
business a*! electrical engineers and contractors for the supply of
electricity for lighting, transmission of power, and other purposes,
whether public or private, etc. The first subscribers are:
Sharw.
Sir B. C. Browne, WesLacres, Neweastle-on-Tyne 1
J. B. Simpson, Hedgefield House, Blaydon-on-Tyne I
Hon. C. A. Parsons, Heabon Works, Newcaatle-on-Tyna I
W. Bond, 3, Brookside, Cambridge 1
(i. B. Finch, 1, St. Peter's -terrace, Cambridge 1
G. Whitmore, 4, Salisbury- vil his, Cambridge 1
W. S. Melsome. Queen's College. Cambridge 1
VV. R. Lamb, The Hall. Ryton-on-Tyne 1
H. C. Harvey, 57, Westgate-road, Newcastle-on-Tyne 1
There shall not be less than three nor more than seven directors.
The first are the first six signatories to the memorandum of
association. Qualification, £250. Remuneration to be determined
by the Com[iany in general meeting.
Bleotrloity Snpply Corporation, Limited, ^T bis Company
offers for subscription £100.000 in shares of £S each, and £70,000
iu 5 per cent- debentures, redeemable at par in 1900. The Com-
pany was incorporated on June 12, 1889, for the purpose of
obtaining a provisional order for the supply of electric light and
power within the parish of St. Martin in -the -Fields. lb is abated
in bhe prospectus that the Company is already supplying 22,000
8-c.p. lamps. The existing plant is capable of supplying the
requisite current for 40,000 Uinips hung, and, with u small addlcioi)
of boiler power, is equal to supplying 60,000 8-candlo lamps hung.
The proceeds of (he present issue will be applied in discharge of
the present debenture and other debts of the Company, which
include moneys advanced by Messrs. Gatti and sums payable
under agreements with them in res|>ect of rights over their pro-
lierbies in the neighbourhood, and about £20,01)0 will be left for
working capital.
B. C. Cnttlog, Donslaaa, and Co., Limited. ~ Registered by
G. J. B. Porter, Wardrobe chambers. Doctors' -commons, with a
capital of £20.000 in £'i shares. Object : to acquire the under-
taking of lightning-conductor mnnufacburors and electrical engi-
neers, now carried on by R, C. Cutting, Douglaas, and Co., of
Doctors'- common, and to carry on the said business in all ite
branches. Most of the regulations contained in Table A apply.
BUSINESS NOTES.
Weatem and BnuUlan TelsKraph Comiuuiy.^The receipte
for the past week, after deducting 17 per cent, payable to the
London Ph»tino-Bray.ilian Company, wore £2,S(I3.
City and Sontl) London Ballway.— The receiple for the week
ending May '22 wore £767, against £768 for bhe same period of
528
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, MAY 27, 1892.
last year, or a decrease of £1. The total receipts to date from
January 1, 1892, show an increase of £1,321, as compared with
last year.
laUngton and General meetrio Snpply. — As we surmised in
our leader of last week, the prospectus for this Company is now
issued. The share capital is £250,000 in 50,000 shares of £5 each,
and of these 45,000 are now offered to the public. The Board is an
exceptionally strong one, consisting of sir F. A. Abel, E. W.
Barnard, Major-General A. Ellis, Sir R.' Pollock, and R. W.
Wallace, with Prof. A. B. W. Kennedy and Mr. V. B. D. Cooper as
engineers, and Mr. G. ELapp as consulting electrician. The secretary
is Mr. R. McA. Inglis, and the offices 5, Victoria-street, S.W.
The prospectus outlines the work and prospects of the Company,
and tabulates information concerning half-a-dozen other companies.
Messrs. J. £. H. Gordon and Co. have contracted for certain work
at Islington, and in due course tenders will be re(|uired for
Camberwell. The present issue proxides money for two Islington
stations, and leaves a good reserve for subsequent issue if required.
Our views in regard to this Company were set forth somewhat fully
last week, and with such fair prospects wo do not doubt that the
Company will meet with the success it desires.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1892.
May 16.
9228. Antomatlo eleetrlo masthead and side light Indicator.
Edward Joseph Bonner Lowdon, 41, Reform-street,
Dundee.
9253. Improvement In apparatus for Indicating eleotrloaUy
words, numbers, places, or other terms Herbert
Hampton Hall, 5, Marlborough-road, Liscard, Cheshire.
9282. Improvement In multiple oommntator apparatus for
telephonic Installations with metallic circuits of the
system Berthon. Charles Denton Abel, 28, Southampton-
buildings, Chancery-lane, London. [Soci^te G^nerale des
Telephones (Reseaux Telephoniques et Constructions Elec-
triques), France.] (Complete specification.)
May 17.
9300. Xleotrlcally-heated matrix press. WUlis Mitchell, 36,
Chancery-lane, London. (Complete specification. )
9319. Improvements In or oonneoted with anodes for the
eleetrolytlo dooomposltion or formation of chemical
compounds. Alfred Henneton, Temple-chambers, London.
(Complete specification.)
9331. Improvements In the mode of and apparatus fdr the
transmission of currents through conduits for the pro-
pulsion electrically of railway cars, etc. John Walter
Grantland, 323, High Holborn, London. (Complete
specification. )
9343. ImproTcments In electric connectors for current con-
verters. George Dexter Burton, 45, Southampton-
buildings, Chancery-lane, London. (Oimplete specifica-
tion. )
9346. Apparatus for the production by electrolysis of chlorine
and alhaltes. Carl Keliner, 46, Linooln's-inn- fields,
London.
9347. Process for the separation of the alkali obtained by
electrolytlcal decomposition of halogen oompouads
f^m the electrolyte which has not been decomposed.
Carl Keliner, 46, Lincoln's-inn-fields, London.
9356. Improvements In apparatus for distributing electric
ourrents for heating purposes. George Dexter Burton,
45, Southampton-buildings, Chancery-lane, London.
(Complete specification.)
9362. Improvements In and relating to electric metal-working
apparatus. George Dexter Burton, 45, Southampton-
buildings, Chancery-lane, London. (Complete specifica-
tion.)
9365. Improvements In and relating to electric motors.
Brobert Lundell and Edward Hibberd Johnson, 45, South-
ampton-buildings, Chancery-lane, London. (Complete
specification.)
9379. Improvements relating to the heating and working of
metal bars by electricity. George Dexter Burton, 45,
Southampton-buildings, Chancery-lane, London. (Com-
plete specification. )
9380. Improvements In mechanism for converting electric
currents, and In the method of applying the same to the
working of metals. George Dexter Burton, 45. South-
ampton-buildings, Chancery-lane, London. (Complete
specification.)
May 18.
9409. Improvemeiitt.iB eleotromagnets for organs and fbr
other suitable purposes. James Jepson Binns, 8,
QuiJity-court, Chancery-lane, London. (Complete specifi-
cation.)
9425. Improvements In eleotrloal swltohes. Alexander William
Stewart, 115, St. Vinoent«treet, Glasgow.
9450. Improvements applicable to eleetrlo bells and other
Instruments. Woodhouse and Rawson United, Limited,
88, Queen Viotoria-Btreet, London, (Richard Varley,
United^StatoB.)
9435. dectrlc gong. Henry Nehmer, 4, Grafton-street, Gower-
street, London.
9470. Improvements In electric pushes. Henry Harris I^®*
45, Southampton-buildings, Chancery-lane, London. (Carl
Jorns, Germany.) (Complete specification.)
May 19.
9486. Improvements In switches and crossings fbr the trolley
wires In the overhead system of eleetrlo traetloa.
Alfred Dickinson, The Tramways Depdt, Darlaston.
9496. Improvements In telephones. Sir Charles Stewart Forbes,
Bart., 21, Finsbury-pavement, London.
9500. Improvements In eleetrlo switches. John Macintosh
Mackay Munro and James McFarlane, 154, St. Vincent-
street, Glasgow.
9515. Improvements In ammeters and voltmeters. Jolui
Perry and Charles Edward Holland, 4, Redington-road,
Hampstead, London.
9536. Improvements In ssrstems of electric dlstrlbutton.
Herbert John Allison, 52, Chancery-lane, London.
(Cyprien Odillon Mailloux, United States.)
9541. An Improved electric accumulator or seeondary battery.
Friedrich Schmalhaus, 433, Strand, London. (Complete
specification.)
9559. A new or Improved electrical seundlng apparatns.
Arthur John Thomas, 76, Chancery-lane, London.
9566. Improvements In electric percussive tools. Llewelyn
Birchall Atkinson, 1, Queen Victoria-street, London.
9569. Improvements In or connected with electric batteiries.
Charles Percy Shrewsbury and John Laskey Dobell, 57t
Chancery lane, London.
May 20.
3113a. Improved means for oonveylng currents of high tenaton
and In appliances used fbr this purpose. Sebastian
Ziani de Ferranti, 24, Southampton- buildings. Chancery-
lane, London. (Date claimed under Patents Rule 19,
17th February, 1892.)
9612. Improvements In dynamo-electrle maehlnes. William
Lowrie, 433, Strand, London.
9613. Improvements In or relating to the method of malntain-
Ing or regulating the potential In electric current
circuits. William Lowrie, 433, Strand, London.
9623. Improvements In electric batteries. Jean Vernhet, 323,
High Holborn, London.
May 21.
9678. Improvements In electricity distribution. William
Burgess Edgar and John Macintosh Mackay Munro, 154,
St. Vincent-street, (vlasgow.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1891.
8009. Eleetrlo call apparatus. Poore.
8874. Telephones and eleetrlo bells. Bennett and Hides.
9048. Illuminating road vehicles electrically. Ck>gan and
others.
9887. Microphonic or telephonic transmitters. Collier.
108.32. Electrical transformers. Woodhouse and Rawson
United, Limited. (Preschlin.)
Hauling electric, etc., cables. Voysey.
Electric accumulators. Rousseau.
Dsmamo-electrlc machines, etc. Callendar.
Electrical mains. Johnson and Phillips.
Thermo-electric batteries. Giraud.
Telephone transmitters. Radcliffe and S(>agnoletti.
Electrical signalling. Watts.
1892.
4244. Ships' telegraphs. Endall.
6050. Electric conductors. Thompson. (VVillinms.)
6083. Incandescent electric lamps. Smith.
10877.
11004.
11016.
11048.
11060.
11157.
22657.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE UST.
Name
Brush Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, Gutta Percha k Telegraph Co.
House-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Snpply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Bleotric ConstructioD
Westminster Electric
Liverpool Electric Supply
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—
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H
—
6A
5
H
3
3*
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
529
NOTES.
The New Telephone Company have now over 2,800
aupporters on their lists.
Aneient and Modem is the title given to the Oity
lighting — gas and electric.
Appointment. — A second assistant to the lecturers at
the Boyal Artillery College is to be appointed — 22nd inst.
Bristol. — Tenders for condensers, pumps, and pipes
at Bristol are invited, as will be seen by the advertisement
Weybridge.— The Board of Trade have been asked
to extend the time for lighting Weybridge for another
three months.
Hanley. — The tenders for the central station plant for
Hanley are to be sent in to Mr. Arthur Challinor, town
elerk, by the 20th inst.
Chlswlok. — ^No decision has yet been come to by the
Chiswick Local Board with reference to the transfer of
their electric lighting powers.
Dnndee. — ^The Dundee Gks Commissioners opened the
tenders for electric station plant on Wednesday. Most of
the large firms have tendered.
Fnlham. — ^The Board of Trade has informed the soli-
citor to the Fulham Vestry that the West London electric
lighting order will not be proceeded with.
Oxflird. — ^The formal opening of the Oxford central
station is to take place on Saturday, June 18, when the
current will be switched on by the Mayor.
Baoup. — A large meeting of the Bacup ratepayers
have passed a resolution unanimously that the steps for the
introduction of electric lighting should be accelerated.
The Iiato P. Willana. — ^In our obituary note last
week, Wednesday was inadvertently mentioned as the day
of the accident to Mr. Willans, when it should have been
Monday.
Bmesela. — ^We learn from an authoritative source that
no absolute decision has yet been formally made with
reference to the proposed central electric station for
Brussels.
Woreeater. — ^The Worcester and the Midland Tramway
Companies^ are arranging an amalgamation. The occasion
might not be unfavourable for consideration of the question
of electric traction.
Hndderafleld. — The tender of the Bradford branch
of Messrs. Woodhouse and Kawson United, Limited, for
wiring and fitting the borough surveyor's office at Hudders-
field has been accepted.
Niagara. — The option of utilising the Niagara Falls for
electric transmission granted to Ferranti has been made
over to a company, who will probably execute the scheme
suggested with Ferranti apparatus.
Ferranti Metera. — The Ferranti meter has been pro-
visionally sanctioned by the Board of Trade, and Messrs.
Ferranti have already received over £3,000 worth of orders
for these meters from supply companies.
Indo-China. — The municipality of Haiphong, French
Indo-China, has decided upon using electricity for street
lighting. A scheme to light the town of Surabaya, in
Netherlands India, by electricity is also on foot.
'Boa Lighting. — A Press view of the lithanode batteries
and electric lamps referred to in our leader was held last
night at the Lithanode Works, 64, Millbank-street, when
the lamps shown in operation attracted much interest
Biahop'a Stortford. — Tenders are required for the
lighting of the public streets of this town for one year
from August 16 th. Tenders are to be sent, on forms
supplied, to Mr. W. Gtoe, North-street, Bishop's Stortford,
by the 18th inst.
Aaorea Cable, — We see it stated that the Telegraph
Construction and Maintenance Company intend to claim
heavy damages from the Portuguese Government for over-
riding the provisional contract long ago signed for the
Azores cable concession.
Bamet. — The arbitrators in the Barnet case have stated
that theaward will be made in general terms, and not on specific
items. It was also to be considered that any sum that the
Bamet Local Board might have to pay would not include
the purchase of the plant, which would remain the property
of Mr. Joel. The award will be made on July 1.
St. Savioor'a Board I>iatriot. — The St. Saviour's
Board has received a statutory notice from the City of
London Electric Lighting Company intimating that they
intend to apply to the London County Council for per-
mission to erect a wharf on Bankside. The Board have
however, decided to strenuously oppose the application.
Telegraph Storea, — The North-Eastern Railway
Company are asking for tenders during the six months
ending December 31, 1892, delivered in York, for (1)
telegraph apparatus, and (2) telegraph wire and line stores.
Forms of tender are to be obtained from Mr. Graves, Tele-
graph Department, York, and tenders must be sent in by
7th inst.
Aooident. — A fatal accident is reported to a child at
Birmingham, who was run over by one of the electric cars.
Of course there is no reason to suppose that the accident
was due to the fact that the car was driven by electricity,
but there ought to be means absolutely enforced in all cars
to make it virtually impossible for a car to run over a
human being.
Hoiat by Hia own Petard. — ^The electricians' depart-
ment at University College, Bristol, was demolished on
Wednesday by a huge mass of stone dislodged by a stroke
of lightning which struck the college. The resident engi-
neer, Mr. Partington, of the Salford sewage works (whore,
curiously, electricity is being also used), was, we are sorry
to hear, unfortunately struck during the same storm and
instantly killed.
Antomatio Tranaformera. — Messrs. Ferranti's
automatic cut in and out transformer for regulating
supply according to demand, and so avoiding loss by
hysteresis, is now completed, and will be tested practically
after Whitsuntide. It is likely to prove a most important
improvement for alternate-current stations, and as Messrs.
Ferranti hold the master patent, the invention is likely to
prove remunerative.
Granune Winding. — "The objection to Gramme
winding for multipolar machines," says Indxisiiies^ in
answer to an enquiry by a correspondent, " is that if the
armature be the least out of the centre, or if some of the
fields be of a better quality of iron than others, the arma-
ture is not evenly loaded ; at light loads it is partially
short-circuited on itself, and at full load the current density
is greater on one side than on the other."
Whitehaven. — Meetings of the Harbour and Streets
Committee of the Whitehaven Board of Trustees have
been held during last week, and it is understood that it
was decided almost unanimously to endeavour to obtain
the adoption of the electric light for the harbour and tha
public lamps of the town. A deputation of the trustees
will visit one of the Lancashire towns, with the object of
inspecting the practical working of the electric light.
530
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
Bradford : Botel LtsbtlnBT.-— The Great Northern
Railway Company have recently purchaeed the Victoria
Hotel, Bradford, and have en trusted the complete decora*
tionandrefurnishingof sameto thewell known firm of Marsh,
Jones, and Cribb, of Leeds, the sub-contract for the bell-
work and electric light being in the hands of the Bradford
lirancfa of Messrs. Woodhouse and Rawson United, Limited.
The current required is to be obtained from the Bradford
Corporation's central station.
Aberdeen. — The Education Committee of Robert
Gordon's Collage, Aberdeen, have resolved to ask a remit
from the governors to further consider the suggestion they
made as to the necessity of providing a new and more
powerful dynamo in room of the one at present in use, and
to consider and report upon the whole question of the
electric lighting of the college, with special reference to the
proposals at present under the coneideration of the Town
Council for lighting the city by electricity.
Hull. — Tenders are required by the Hull Corporation
for the supply of an overhead travelling crane for the
electric light station. Specifications and forms of tender
may be obtained from Mr. F. Harman Lewis, borough
electncal engineer. Central Police Station, Hull, on pay-
ment of one guinea, to be returned on receipt of tender.
Cheques must be payable to Borough Treasurer, Hull. The
tenders are to be sent to the chairman of the Electric
Light Committee, Town Clerk's Offices, Hull, by noon on
•Tune lOtb.
Telegrapli Apparatus. — Tenders are required by
the Caledonian Railway Company for telegraph and electric
Kpptiancea for the 12 months from 1st August next.
Specifications and forms of tender may be obtained from
Mr. James Lorimer, superintendent of stores, Caledonian
Bail way, Charles -street, St. Roll ox, Glasgow. Patterns
may be inspected on and after Monday, 6th June, at the
company's stores, Charles-street, St, Rollox. Tenders to
be sent in to the Secretary, 302, Buchanan -street, Glasgow,
not later than Monday, 20ih June, 1892.
OlaHETOV. — A lively discussion has been going on in
the Glasgow Herald with reference to electric cars. Mr.
Moses Buchanan has put forward his feelings that the
overhead wire system for electric cars is dangerous and
unsightly. Other correspond ente have pointed out the
efficient application of this system in Leeds and in America,
more particularly in Boston, where, according to the Boston
papers, there are now between 300 and 400 cars on the
lines, and the traffic has increased so greatly that plans are
being got out to open up larger now thoroughfares.
Training Ship, — Messrs. Paterson and Cooper have
been selected by the London School Board for the contract
of providing a system of electric lighting tor the training
fthip " Shaftesbury." We believe the amount involved in
the estimate is £1,0G6, while Messrs. Frazer and Sons are
to supply the necessary boilers and furnaces at ' a (Tost of
£423, the Board having voted a sum not exceeding £1,500
for these purposes. Mr. Howard Swan was employed by
the Board to draw up the needful specifications, and will
supervise the carrying out of the work.
Engrlneering Bxehonge. — The new Engineering
Exchange seems to have got into good and active company,
and the inauguration of this exchange, together with the
removal of the Jerusalem Shipping Exchange (established
lfi25) to new offices in 22, Bill iter- street, was celebrated on
Tuesday by a dinner. Sir Albert Rollit, M.P., presided,
and speeches were made emphasising the importance of
our shipping trade, and the union of the engineering pro-
fession thereto, by the chairman, and Mr. O, Candy, Q.C,
Mr. H. Kimber, M.P., Mr. W. W. Beaumont, Mr. Reginald
Bolton, Mr. F. Rawson, Mr. Flaxman Haydon, and others.
A smoking concert followed the dinner and speeches.
Manoheeter.— ^As will be seen from their advertise-
ment, the Gas Committee of the Manchester Corporation
are prepared to receive applications for the position of clerk
of works, to superintend the construction and erection of
the dynamos, engines, boilers, and other apparatus, and the
laying of the mains and conductors in connection with the
electric installation. The salary will be four guineas a
week, and the appointment may be made permanent at a
salary to be agreed upon afterwards. Applications must
be forwarded to Mr. 0. Nickson, superintendent. Gas
Department, Town Hall, Manchester, by the 24th inat.,
addressed to the Chairman of the Gas Committee, Man-
chester.
Eastbourne. — The Eastbourne Electric Lighting Com-
pany, owing to the growing success of their enterprise,
have decided to reduce their price from lOd. to 9d. per
unit. The company seems to be in a good condition, and a
satisfactory report is promised, A considerable profit was
realised last year, the debenture interest has bean paid, and,
after a fair sum put aside for depreciation, a small profit
still remains, and the reduction of price may be expected
to still further popularise the light. The efforts of the
enterprising chairman, Mr. George Boneton, seconded by the
able manager and electrical engineer, Mr. Wilkinson, have
secured a sound result to the company, which we hope will
continue a prosperous career.
Derby. — The Electric Lighting Committee of the Derby
Town Council have, in conjunction with Sir Frederick
Bramwell and Mr. Harris, considered various sites for the
buildings and works in connection with the installation of
the electric light for the borough, and have decided to
recommend the use of the land in Silk Mill-lane for the
buildings, the unoccupied part of the adjoining island in
the Derwent to be used for storage and other purposes in
connection with the work. The site on the island was
until recently occupied by the old silk mill, the first ever
built in England, which was erected by John Lombe early
in the eighteenth century, and which had to be pulled
down in consequence of its dangerous condition.
Wetler Abbey, Stoke-on-Trent.— The Manchester
branch of the Brush Electrical Engineering Company have
just completed an installation at the residence of J. Hart-
land, Esq,, which is noteworthy in that it demonstrates
the success with which electric lighting can be carried out
in a country mansion with a petroleum engine as the prime
motor. The installation consists of 60 IC-c.p, lamps,
with a battery of accumulators ; a Priestman oil engine
of 7 brake h.p. is used to drive a Victoria dynamo, which
supplies current to the cells. The awitchboarrl is arranged
so that the lamps can be fed either direct from the storage
battery, from the dynamo and battery in conjunction, or
from the dynamo direct. The work of the whole plant is
very satisfactory.
Waterford.— Mr, J. J. O'Sullivan is the champion of
the electric lighting project in Waterford, and bas written
some trenchant letters in the local paper. If the Council
forego their provisional order now and hind themselves to
the gas company for another five years, he points out they
will not be able to oppose a local electric company in
mother two years, and will lose the supply. Mr. W J.
Smith had maintained as a " stern fact " that an installation
would cost £3,000 to £4,000 a year to run, and Mr.
Sullivan replied that surely Mr. Smith has overlooked the
fact that the Corporation may expect a revenue as well as
expenditure. Meantime the ijuestion is still being debated.
The beat thing the Council could do would be to invest on
the advice of a competent expert.
THE EJLECTRIOAL ElfGlMER, JUNE 3, 1891
531
Sonthampton Baths.— The Batha and Washhousea
Committee of the Southampton Town Council reported at
the last meeting the receipt of 36 tenders for the electric
lighting o! the public baths, and unanimously recommended
the Corporation to accept the tender of the Newton Elec-
trical Engineering Works, of Taunton, for carrying out the
work for £324, subject to the suretiea being satisfactory,
also to the dynamo and fittings being aatiafactory to Mr.
Aldridge, their consulting engineer, all subject to the
. approval of the Local Government Board. Mr. Le Feuvre
enquired how it was that Mr. Aldridge waa introduced into
the matter, and what remuneration he was to get 1 The
Mayor said it was usual to call in an expert, and his
remuneration would be £20, The report was adopted.
Central London Station. — The great want of
London for years baa been a central City railway station
joining the maio lines, and this want the electric railway
eeems destined to fulBl. The engineer to the Commia-
aioners of Sewers has brought in a report, wherein he gives
details of a large station, with subways for the public,
to be formed beneath the street on an area bounded
by the Poultry, Victoria - street, the Mansion House,
Cornhill, and Thread needle-street. Public subways will be
provided at a short distance below the surface, having
eight staircases leading down, from these, lift-shafts will
^o to the station level, 80ft, below the surface. The com-
pany will have the finest aite in the world practically free,
though the cost of construction will be nearly X40,000.
It has been determined that all persons within a certain
area shall be deemed affected, and entitled to some com-
pensation.
Tramcar Lightingr.— What managers of tramcars feel
to be needed for the lighting is some neat portable battery
with electric lamp, which can be economically run, easily
slipped into place, and which will light the car " from the
roof." The lirst desiderata are the same as for 'bus light-
ing, to which attention is elsewhere called. For the latter,
lighting from the roof, which is really an important point,
all that is necessary, of course, is a Hat battery with the
lamp beneath, with reflector and some hooks or sliding
catches. This is perfectly simple J still, someone must do
it and show the lamps. We commend the idea to both
tram managers and lamp makers. It is, indeed, quite
possible that this will eventually prove the easiest and
cheapest method of lighting railway trains, instead of the
separate plant now used for train lighting, for at base the
problems are similar, and no train in England requires more
than' eight hours' charge.
Train-Lighting Plant. — Mr. J. Evelyn Liardet,
writing to us from Palace-chambers, 9, Bridge-street, West-
minster, states in effect that he, not Stroudley and
Houghton, was the tnie inventor of the railway train-
lighting plant, an improved form of which, as manufac-
tured by the Brush Company, was illustrated and described
by us last week. He mentions his patent (6,418, 10th
December, 1881) as being prior to that of Stroudley and
Houghton (2,579, of 23rd May, 1883) and almost the same,
jtnd protests against the credit being given to them as the
inventors. So far aa the dates of the ^t electric train-
lighting plant are concerned, these can be seen on reference
to the Patent Olfice library, but the columns of a technical
journal are not the proper place for insistance and proof of
the priority or identity of inventions, which can usually
only be settled in the Law Courts. We see no reason,
however, not to mention Mr. Liardet's claim for the priority.
Tasla'a Exparimanta. — "Some of Mr. Tesla's most
striking experiments," romarka Mr. Arthur Q. Webster in
discussing Ohm's law in the Etediv-al World, " depend od
the illumination of tubes or lamps without electrodes, or
with but one. An experiment was performed several years
ago by a gentleman in Vienna (I think Dr. Moser) with a
double Oeissler tube without electrodes. One tube sur-
rounded the other, which waa oihausted. On bringing
the tube near an induction coil, and beginning to exhaust
the outer tube, the latter glowed while the inner remained
dark, being screened from action by the conducting gas in
the outer tube. On highly exhausting the outer tube its
conductivity diminished, and the inner tube began to
glow, while finally the outer ceaaed. To my mind thia
experiment is as instructive as any of Tesla's. There la
nothing, of course, in this to detract from the great interest
and beauty of Tesla's experiments, but I am inclined to
agree with Mr Wimahurst that the principal difference
between these and others is in the expenditure of energy
involved."
Derby. — The recent decision of the Derby Town
Council to undertake the supply of electricity baa naturally
aroused great interest among the inhabitants of the town.
In order to foster this interest to the utmost, the enter-
prising Derby firm, Messrs, John Davis and Son, of All
Suinta' Works, have had on view at their establish-
ment a. collection of domestic electrical arrangements,
for demonstration of the usefulness of " electricity in
the house." Besides electric light in lamps of various
kinds, and electric motors applied to engineering work,
Messrs. Davis have a set of electric cooking apparatus.
The electric kettle boiled water in a few minutes from the
time of turning on the switch ; an invalid or business man
in a hurry can make their own breakfasts or teas without
trouble. An electric saucepan shows how an egg can be
boiled, or stew prepared, with as little difficulty, and with
the electric grill chops, steaka, and pancakes are turned out
with despatch. The electric heaters and bath warmers are
much admired for efficiency and cleanliness. These sets of
apparatus, already known to visitors at the Palace, create
much interest in the provinces, and much business should
be done in this direction. The electric Blackmau fan is
also greatly appreciated.
Breslaa Central Station. — Some interesting parti-
culars are given by C. Dihtmann in EUklratechniseHe
Zeilsehri/l, of the Breslau central station, abstracted in the
J'ournoZof the Institution, as follows : "The station is worked
on the three-wire system, with Tudor batteries capable of
running 2,500 lamps (16 c.p.) for 3J hours, the total
capacity of the station being 8,000 lamps. There are
three horizontal compound condensing engines, 250 h.p.
each atl50revolutions,built by the Uorlitzer Company, each
driving two Siemens and Halske dynamos, direct coupled,on
each side. The latter work up to a maximum of I7G
volte and 4C5 amperes for charging, and 130 volts and
625 amperes when working direct on to the mains. There
ia no separate commutator, the current being taken oflf by
brushes at six poiute on the armature itself. Armoured
lead-covered cables are exclusively used, and principally
laid under the foot pavement. Automatic gear is provided
on the feeders to maintain constant E.M.F. at their ends by
switching them on to different cells. The station waa
started in August with 3,000 to 4,000 lamps joined up
which number had risen to 10,000 before Cbriatmas
40,000 metres of cables are already laid, and 30,000 metres
more will be down shortly."
Tannton, — The report by Mr. Kapp to the Taunton
Town Council upon the central electric station appraised
the machinery and plant, which he thought well for them to
purchase, at £5,350, leaving the rest of the plant to be dis-
posed of by the company themselves. As this arrangement
did not meet the viewa of the company, a subaequent
632
TfiE EL^CTRtCAL ENGINEER, JtJNE 3. 1892
report suggeBted that the whole should be bought for
£9,300, and that the Council take upon themselves to
sell the plant not required in the reorganisation of the
station. The joint committee have passed a resolution
empowering a sub-committee to purchase and make terms
for carrying on the works until a provisional order could
be obtained. At a preliminary meeting of the shareholders
of the electric lighting company, it was agreed to recom-
mend the acceptance of the offer of the Town Council to
purchase for £9,300, and a meeting of the shareholders has
been called for June 2 to consider this offer. Alderman
Standfast, however, writes to the papers that no offer can
have been really made, as no vote of the Council has yet
been taken. He suggests also that if the Council must buy,
the company ought first to liquidate and get rid of their
liabilities. As the subject is important to the ratepayers,
he demands an actual division should be taken.
Proposed Electric Tramways for Hull. — A special
meeting of the Hull Town Council was held on Monday to
consider an agreement which the Works Committee pro-
posed should be entered into with a syndicate for the
establishment of electric tramcars in the borough. The
mayor, Mr. E.Bobson, was in the chair. Alderman Larard,
chairman of the Works Committee, moved the adoption of
the minutes, and stated that the present tramways being in
liquidation it was proposed, by virtue of the powers they
possessed under the Act, to purchase the system, also the
system of the Marfleet Steam Tramways Company, and
amalgamate the whole. The agreement provided that the
Corporation should relay the system, putting down double
lines along the principal thoroughfares, and let the whole
to the syndicate, who should provide roUing.stock and
plant for working the line by electricity, and pay the Cor-
poration a percentage to cover interest on outlay and main-
tenance of the lines and generating stations, and also make
a deposit of £14,000. It was further arranged that the
whole system should become the property of the Corpora-
tion in 30 years. Alderman Wilde seconded the resolution.
A long discussion followed. The principal ground of objec-
tion urged was that the Corporation would have no sub-
stantial security in case the new company failed to fulfil its
obligations. On the motion of Mr. Massey, seconded by
Mr. Smith, the minutes were referred back for recon-
sideration.
East-end Electric Railway* — ^A proposal for the
relief of the congested population in the East-end by the
construction of an electric railway, to be paid for on the
betterment principle, has been put on the County Council
programme by Mr. Saundera for discussion at an early
date. Not long ago the chairman of the Great Eastern
Bail way stated that a fare of 2d. for a journey from Enfield
to Liverpool-street and back remunerated his company if
there were 500 passengers in the train. This being so,
Mr. Saunders concludes that on the electric railway line,
the interest on the cost of which would be paid by the
improved value of the land, a penny fare for 20 mites would
pay, seeing that electric trains are smaller and cheaper
than the trains run by the Great Eastern Company. Mr.
Saunders will therefore propose " that the Council instruct
an experienced railway engineer to advise it as to the best
route for an electric railway passing underground through
Whitechapel, rising to the surface at suitable points, and
extending about 20 miles north and south from the centre
of the railway at Whitechapel ; this advice to be obtained
with a view to preparing plans and estimates, and submitting
to Parliament a scheme for the construction of such a tine.
The cost to be paid by the application of the betterment
principle to the increased value of land imparted by the
railway. Workmen's trains to be provided at a net charge
not exceeding 6d. per week for travelling 10 miles daily
and return."
Technloal Edncatlon. — The Special Committee on
Technical Education reported on Tuesday to the London
County Council that they regarded it as indispensable, in
order that they might be in a position to make any useful
recommendation to the Council, that they should first
ascertain what provision was already being made for
technical education in London, to what extent the ground
was being covered by other agencies, and in what way, and
by what body, any deficiencies could be best supplied. This
information, they stated, did not at present exist in any form
in which itcould be laid before the Council, and they had come
to the conclusion that it was necessary temporarily to engage
the services of a gentleman who should prepare a detailed
statement, make any necessary enquiries under their direc-
tion, and act at the same time as secretary. They had
selected for this task Mr. Hubert Llewellyn Smith, M.A.,
B.Sc., who would devote himself to the work during the
four months ending September 30th next, and to whom
they had agreed to pay an honorarium of £250, which
would also cover any minor personal expenses incidental to
his enquiry. The cost would be met from the sum of £500
which was placed by the Council at their disposal for the
general expenses of enquiries under their reference. The
course taken was approved.
Hnddersfield. — The following is the description,
apparently official, of the system of electric lighting which
is to be introduced into Huddersfield : The system is a
high-pressure alternating-current supply to converting
stations, from which a low-pressure supply at constant
pressure is given to consumers. The converting stations
will, as a rule, be chambers below the level of the streets.
In special cases of large installations the converting stations
will be special fireproof erections in the basement or other
convenient parts of the building. The chambers below
level of the street will be constructed and fitted as follows :
The chamber will be of ample size and suitable construc-
tion. The entrance to the chamber will be no larger than
may be required to allow of the entrance of a man or the
withdrawal of a transformer, and will be closed externally
in the same manner as other street boxes. The covers will
be fixed in stout cast-iron frames, to which will be attached
in electric continuity therewith strips of metal laid immedi-
ately underneath the adjacent pavement Below the external
cover there will be fixed a second metal cover, independently
supported, free from metallic connection with the external
cover, and efiectually connected to the earth by means of
an efficient electrical attachment to the underground iron
pipes or metal conduits. Adequate means will be adopted
to thoroughly ventilate these chambers, and to prevent any
accumulation of gas or water. The power given to any
single converting station will in no case exceed a maximum
of 100 h.p. without the written consent of the Board of
Trade, and every transformer will be protected by a
suitable automatic quick-acting cut-off, which will act should
the proper maximum current be exceeded by the amount of
40 per cent. The high-pressure mains will be concentric,
insulated with vulcanised rubber drawn into paper tubes,
bedded in bitumen, and protected by a cast-iron casing.
The low-pressure mains will be single cable, drawn into
paper tubes, and protected in the same manner.
Three-Phase Currents at Hellliroiin. — Will the
three-phase current as shown at Frankfort become really
practical as one of the methods for electric central station
work ? This is a question that a good many electrical
engineers have posed themselves since their visit to
(Germany last year. The idea has not yet been seriously
entertained in England to utilise the '* rotary current" for
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
533
any central stationi though it was tentatively discussed for
one of our university towns, and has been also considered,
we are informed, for one of the towns in Ireland at present
intending to adopt electric lighting. But these projects
are without definite result as yet. It is therefore interest-
ing to learn that the first central station working with the
three-phase current, recently carried out by the Oerlikon
Company, of Zurich, seems to be a thoroughly satisfactory
arrangement, and one which is likely to lead to consider-
able extension in this interesting system. The suitability,
in fact, of the three-phase current, both in driving motors
for distribution of power as well as for direct lighting, is
there demonstrated on a practical scale, the current both
running three-phase motors as well as lamps in parallel.
The generating station is at Lauffen, six miles from Heil-
bronn. It contains two three-phase generators of 300 h.p.
each, giving a pressure of 86 volts between any two ter-
minals. Only one machine is at present used, the other being
kept as reserve. The low-tension current is transformed up
at the station to 5,000 volts, and is sent along three over-
head wires of 6mm. diameter. The transformation down-
wards is carried out before entering Heilbronn to 1,500
volts, and thence the current is carried to a distributing
station in the centre of the town. From here it is led
away to tertiary transformers, 23 in all, connected by
feeders to a 100- volt low-tension network. Motors of a
total power of 25 h.p. are already installed, and have been
working satisfactorily for some time. The station also
supplies current for nearly 1,500 lamps of various candle-
power, and, besides this, there are also 14 arcs taking eight
to ten amperes. This interesting station has yet a con-
siderable reserve of power, but the demand is constantly
growing, and the full power will doubtless soon be required.
The expeiimental installation thus receives a practical out-
come, and its seeming success will stimulate other projects
in the same direction.
Eleotiio Organ. — The magnificent new organ built by
Messrs. Abbott and Smith, Blackman-lane, Leeds, to the
specification of Dr. Churchill Sibley, and erected in the
large concert hall at the Goldsmiths' Institute, New
Cross, S.E., containing 60 stops and 3,107 pipes,
is blown by means of electricity, the apparatus having
been designed and constructed by Messrs. Easton
and Anderson, 3, Whitehall-place, S.W., and Erith Iron
Works, Kent. This method was adopted as being the
simplest and most efficient way of enabling the engine
belonging to the institute, and used for pumping, driving
the workshop, etc., to supply the power for blowing, and
do away with a special prime mover, which would have
been for many reasons objectionable. The gear consists of
three cast-iron blowing-cylinders 17in. diameter by 24in.
stroke, placed side by side on a framework made of rolled
joists secured to the concrete floor of the blowing-chamber,
which is situated at one end of the gymnasium. Two of
these cylinders supply one regulating reservoir, with wind
at 5in. pressure, and the third cylinder supplies a second with
wind at lOin. pressure, from which suitable trunks are led to
the organ. The pistons of the two low-pressure cylinders
are worked by a double-throw crankshaft, driven by a
worm and worm-wheel, which is enclosed in a cast-iron
casing, the worm being connected by a coupling with the
spindle of an electromotor capable of giving out ordinarily
about 2| h.p. The piston of the third cylinder is worked by
a single-throw crankshaft, with a similar worm gear, and
another motor of the same size. The motors always run
at an approximately constant speed, and when the reservoirs
are full automatic by-passes are opened between the ends
of the cylinders, and the air is simply passed backwards and
forwards until the reservoirs fall again and shut the by-
pass. Switches are arranged with suitable resistances close
to the organ keyboard by which either or both of the
motors can be started, and which also provide a means of
regulating the speed to some extent. The conductors are
led from the motora and switches to a space near the
engineering workshop, where they terminate in a switch-
board having cut-outs and a voltmeter on it, connected to the
generating dynamo, which is driven by a countershaft and
belts from the workshop shafting. It is capable of giving
an output of about 100 volts and 50 amperes. The
arrangement works very satisfactorily and requires very
little attention.
Royal Cornwall Exhibition. — The sixtieth annual
exhibition of the Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society will
be held at the Polytechnic Hall, Falmouth, for five days,
commencing August 23rd next. The committee have
arranged to make the applications of electricity a special
feature at the forthcoming exhibition. They point out to
intending exhibitors that up to the present time not much
electrical work has been done in Cornwall, save at St.
Austell; on the other hand, in many of the West of
England towns there is a strong desire for a superior light
for both public and private purposes, whilst at Falmouth
the question of establishing an electric supply station is now
being seriously considered. The Royal Cornwall Poly-
technic Society also draw particular attention to the great
opening which exists for the introduction of electricity as
applicable to the various requirements of Cornish mining
and quarrying, and for such purposes as lighting,
pumping, hauling, ventilating, drilling, metal refining,
and so forth. The society have always given special
attention and encouragement to the -practical develop-
ment of Cornish mining, and have, from time to
time, given medals and substantial premiums to meri-
torious inventions and improvements connected with this
industry. With reference to rock-drilling machinery, the
society claim to have done more than any other institution
to introduce power drills into the Cornish mines. From
the year 1867 down to the present time, practical tests of
rock drills have frequently been made at the society's
annual exhibitions, and in many instances medals have
been awarded at these competitions. But for the timely
introduction of drilling machinery, they think many
Cornish mines would have succumbed to the great
depression which that industry suffered some years ago.
In the belief that there is still room for improvement
in the methods of working rock drills, the society
offer a special medal for an electrical rock drill
applicable to Cornish mining and quarrying. It is
intended that the exhibition shall include exhibits in
all the various applications of electricity, including : (1)
Electric rock drills — in this particular section a medal is
offered for the best drill suitable for Cornish mines and
quarries ; (2) other electric mining machinery and appli-
ances ; (3) electric lighting, comprising dynamos, secondary
batteries, lamps, fittings, cables, and switches ; (4) electric
motors for various purpose other than mining ; (5) electric
bells, telephones, telegraphs, and primary batteries ; (6)
applications of electricity to medical purposes ; (7) other
electric exhibits not included in the foregoing classes. No
charge will be made for space. There is direct steamshij)
communication with low goods freight between London,
Portsmouth, Southampton, Plymouth, Dublin, and Fal-
mouth, twice a week ; and between Liverpool and Falmouth
weekly. Applications for entry forms and any further
information should be made to the hon. secretary of the
department, Mr. K B. Rogers, 10, Gerald-road, Eaton-
square, London, S.W. ; or to the secretary of the society,
Mr. Edward Kitto, F.R.Met.S., The Observatory, Falmouth.
534
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
THE CRTSTAI, PALACE EXHIBITION.
lb ia now some time since we referred to the excellent
exhibit of the Kdison-Swan Compaiiy. Night after night
the large icreea (iUustrated in our issue of February 19
last) has been lighted, and thousands of visitors will have
bad impressed upon their minds the fact that the Edison-
shape of an incandescent lamp, which cornea into acUon
when the temperature of the meter falls below a certain
point, also a. compensating resistance to keep the resiatanoe
of the shunt circuit constant through varying temperatures.
Fig. 5 shows a new form of key holder with a fibre base.
These illustrations all explain themselves, and, as we aay,
must be taken as typical of this company's work outside
the lam:i manufacture.
do. I.— Edlun
Swan Company are manufacturers of incandescent lamps.
But undoubtedly they claim a wider field, and although
the lamp manufacture may be said to be their loading
article, tboy also manufacture holders, switches, and other
paraphernalia pertaining to incandescent lamp installations.
The accompanying illustrations show some of their
switches. Fig. 1 is a branch switchboard fitted wiih
" chopper " switches and double-pole fuses. It is mounted
on a slate base, and the whole enclosed in a teak case with
glass over, so that it can be closed and looked. Fig. 3
shows a two-way switch with the fuses on a sl&te ktse,
and Fig. 3 shows a two-circuit switch, also on slate.
Fig i shows the Edison meter, which has so often been
fully described that it is only necessary to recall it to the
recollection of our readers. It is an electrolytic meter,
and one that has not found great favour on this side of the
Atlantic. This raeber ia provided with a thermostat in the
Most of the exhibits at the Crystal Palace are interesting
both to the public and to electrical engineers from the final
result or installation point of view — we see the machinery,
the apparatus, the instruments as they are constructed and
will be used in actual work. There is one exhibit, however,
that of HesBra. CliarlaB Chorohill and Co., Umlted,
which is more particularly interesting to engineers from
the manufacturing point of view, in the shape of a large
number of the latest and most approved kinds of machine
tools, automatic or otherwise. A careful inspection
of the tools in action at their stand will result in
a vivid appreciation of the enterprise, energy, and
ingenuity which the American manufacturers whom Meaais.
Churchill repreeant have put into the production of this
.— TirO'drcnit Svllch.
class of goods. Since the remarkable display of automatic
watchmaking machinery at the Inventions Exhibition some
years ago, manufacturers have become accustomed to the
varied ingenuity of the automatic machine tools, larga and
small ; and at the Crystal Palace we have a display, smaller,
perhaps, but to the electrical engineer far more important,
in the lathes, drilling, milling, and tooling machines for
heavy work, all the more interesting in that they are there
driven by power electrically transmitted to electric motors
The new tool-room automatic milling machine shown by
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUKE 3, 1892.
636
MeHBra, Churchill and Co., the product of the Brainard
Milling Company, of Beaton, is a marvel of compact use-
fulness. This machine is designed with special reference,
as its name implies, to tool-room purposes, being most con-
veniently arranged for every variety of work incident to
the tool-room, making mill inj^ cutters of every kind, cutting
twist drills, fluting taps and reamers, cam cutting, die sink-
ing, nut and bolt finishinif, cutting of spur, bevel, and worm
wheels, and the hundred other necessary purpoeea. It cuts
Bpiials automatically, both right and left hand, the full
length of machine feed, and of all sizes and pitches. The
work table swivels in both directions to an angle of 45dog.,
and the feed work, centrally driven, is not affected by the
position of the table, which feeds backward or forward
without changing the direction of belt. The swivel carriage
rotates on a central bearing, and, when adjusted, is bolted
to the lower half which traverses the knee, thus avoiding
the usual weak centre joint held by only a single set screw.
Each size except the smallest is provided with Brainard's
head and back centre, the most convenient dividing centre
eased on a milling machine. It has an overhanging arm
for outside centre support, Stted for quick removal. The
dividing head combines the directness of a notched dial
with the accuracy of a worm wheel. Two s^Btema are
combined — one for cutting gears, and the other for small
work or for finishing.
The Heiidey shaping machines, which we also illustrate,
are adapted for tool-making and accurate die-work. The
Teed is automatic in all directions. The driving movement is
by patent friction, enabling the cutter-bar to work up to a
line and reverse without jar, The length of stroke can be
changed instantly while in operation, and the reversing
motion is very simple, and not liable to get out of order.
The table can be adjusted to plane taper-work, and space
Beadey Stuping
ia provided under the cutter-bar for cutting key seals and
other similar work.
Another interesting and extremely useful machine ia
Flather's screw-cutting hollow-spindle engine lathe. This
lathe is made to gauge, and its parts are interchangeable.
The headstock has a hammered ateel apindle and th
bearings run in hard bronze boxes, which can be renew
easily. The shaft has a hole chucked into it Sin.
Bnlnsni Toolroor
and forms a beanng for the feed rod which is telescoped
into and revolves freely in it On the feed-rod is a
clutch to interlock with the clutch on the short shaft in
use. The screw la fitted in the upper hole of the same
casting, and ia connected when in use by slip gear.
The lathe ia compact, it admits of better control of the
feed, which can be changed from belt to gear, and from
coarse to fine, or the reverse, very quickly. A finishing
cut from the finest up to |in. per revolution can b«
taken. All nuts, wrenches, and screws on the lathe
S36
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
are coae-hardened, and every lathe ia tested for accuracy
by appliances that will show imperfections of jircn;'"-'
□o machine which doea not show this accuracy being passed.
We show also the Reeve's wood split pulley, constructed by
glueing and croas-lapping three pieces of wood together ;
when the pulley opens additional strength is given by
hardwood dowels. These small pulleys are well bushed,
and are held to the shaft by long compreasion screws.
The above are a few out of many exhibits of macbioe
tools and appliances which Messrs. Churchill make
a speciality. Of the immense variety and number of
the lull assortment of tools kept by the firm, probably few
persons have any adequate idea. A catalogue, one of
the handsomest obtainable, has just been issued by this
firm, and can be obtained from the offices, 21, Cross-street,
Finsbury, E.C. It consists of over 300 lai^ pages, and
Wood split Pulley
when we say that there are often balf-a-dozen or more
beautifully-finished woodcuts illustrating all kinds and
aorta of tools and machines on every page, the extent and
variety of the businsaa can be appreciated.
AMPERE-CENTIMETRE— A MEASURE OF ELECTRO-
MAGNETISM.*
BY CARL HSRINO.
It appears from the following deductions that an electric
current multiplied by the length of the circuit will repie-
sent the number of magnetic tines of force generated by
this current ; or, in other words, that the number of lines of
force generated by a current can be measured by the
product of the current and the length of ita circuit. A
unit current passing through a unit length of circuit,
appears to generate a certain fixed and constant number of
lines of force. This, of course, has reference to the electro-
magnetiam of the current itself, and does not include the
influence of any magnetic bodies in the neighbourhood.
First of all it is neceasary to abow that amperes multi-
plied by length will give a unit of a similar nature to
magnetic lines of force or flux, in order to show that an
equivalent between the two may be given without trana-
greasing the laws of physics. This may be shown conclu-
sively by the aid of the dimensions of these units in the
absolute system. The dimension of current is m^ H t~',
while that of magnetic flux (that is, number of lines nf
force, not their density per square centimetre usually
represented by H or B, nor the intensity as it is aometimea
called), is n^ it t-y It will be seen that the fonnar
multiplied by a length gives the latter. This shows con
cluaively that ampere-centimetres, or ampere-feet and
magnetic flux are unite of the same kind and can therefore
be equated.
Having determined this point, the following appears to
abow that every unit length of a circuit conveying one
ampere, generates a fixed and constant number of linea of
force. Uaing abaolute units, the intensity of magnetisation
(or number of lines per square centimetee) at the centre of
a circle of one turn, according to the well-known formula, is
in which r ie the radius in centimetres and e ia the current.
Now the intensity of the field is difierent in difTerent
parte of the area enclosed by the circle, being greateet
nearest to the wire, but it may be asatinied tut id all
circles, large or amall, the ratio of the intensity at the
centre to the average intensity in the whole circle is a
constant Let this ratio be called K, then Uie total
number of lines will be equal to the intensity at the centre
multiplied by the area and by K ; that is,
M-1^ xirfixK=2(ir»rK.
r
By dividing this by the circtunfereDce will give the
numoer of lines per unit length of the circuit
2clr»rK-^ 2irr^ CirK,
or per unit of current, thia is equal to t K. It will be aaan
that thia ia a constant, and is independent of the radios, r.
This means that the number of lines per unit length and
per unit current is the same for all circles, and therefore
alao for a atraight line, which ia a circle of infinite radios.
From thia it appears that, knowing this constant number
of lines per ampere per centimetre or foot, the calculation
of the total number of lines gensrated by any circuit or
coil would merely be the product of the current, the length
of the circuit, and a constant.
It should be remembered, however, that this deduction
euppoaea theoretical conditiona ; that is, a filamentary wire
having no appreciable diameter. How far the sin of the
wire introduces an error remains to be determined. At all
events, if the diameter of the wire is amall as compared
with the diameter of the coil, and specially if the coil, as it
usually does in practice, contains iron which appears to
concentrate the lines in it, and therefore probably attracts
those circulating in the body of the wire itself, it mav
doubtless be assumed that tiie ratio of the flux in two coiu
would be equal to the ratio of their ampere-feet, which
proportion might be of use in dynamo construction.
The above deductions were made by the writer a number
of years ago, but as they did not appear to agree with some
existing laws at that time, the matter was laid aside. It
seema, however, that subsisquently some dynamo builders
have advocated and uaed this ayatem of cuculation in pre-
ference to the other, and it was therefore thought best to
publish this proof, hoping that aome others well informed
on thia subject might point out the discrepancies, if any,
and perhaps ahow the extent of tbe application in practice
of calculating the magnetic flux of a current from the
a mpere-centi metres of uie circuit.
ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION BT THE NEWCASTLE-
ON-TYNE ELECTRIC SUPPLY COMPANY.*
BY A. W. HEAVISIDE AND R. C. JACKSON, HBHBERB.
Prelminary. — The town of Newcastle is supplied with
electrical energy by two companies, operating difi'erent
districts, and distinct from one another. These are the
Newcastls and District Company, using Parsons turbines,
supplying the southern and western portions of the town,
and the Newcastle Electric Supply Company (the company
with which we are connected), supplying the northern and
eastern portion. Thia paper deals with the diatribation of
• Papo
May 21
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
537
electrical energv by the Newcastle-on Tyne Electric Sapply
Company, Pandon Dene, it being thought that the members
of the Institution would find interest in an account of the
methods of working, and of the technical and financial
results obtained during the first financial year of the
company's operations.
The system employed is a high-pressure one of 2,000
volts, alternating current, with separate transformers in
the consumers' premises, the price charged being 4Jd. per
Board of Trade unit. The company was formed on the
7th January, 1889. Some questions having been raised
upon legal points by the local authorities, the whole of
1889 was employed in negotiating the license. These
negotiations were more prolonged than usual, and it was
not until the close of November that a provisional arrange-
ment was entered into, enabling the company to proceed
with the street works in anticipation of the Board of Trade
license, which was not received until March 21st, 1890.
Site, — ^Eligible sites for the establishment of a central
station were found to be limited in number ; however, at
Pandon Dene, some vacant land was eventually selected,
which appeared to have some advantages in its favour.
The business quarter is to the south and the residential
quarter to the north, thus facilitating the whole of the
company's operations being transacted from one point. The
site is also alongside the sidings of the Blyth and Tyne branch
of the North-Eastern Railway, which taps'the Northumber-
land steam coalfield. There is ample room for extension,
as the company's land occupies a space about 127ft. wide
and 436ft. long, parallel with the railway. The absence of
dwelling-houses in the immediate vicinity of the works
avoids di£Qcultie8 which might arise from the vibration
caused by machinery in motion. Against these advantages
must be set the want of cheap water for condensing pur-
poses. The " supply company's " water is taken from the
intermediate service of the local water company, the average
cost i)er 1,000 gallons being 9*78 pence.
Buildings, — The dominant idea in laying out the station
buildings was to so arrange them as to reduce any recon-
struction to a minimum ; the erection of each successive
section being carried out without interruption or disturb
ance to the plant already fixed. At the present time two
sections have been built, enclosing a space 119ft. by 74ft.
by 13^ft. high to the top of the girders. This space is
covered by means of a light iron lantern roof, supported
upon wrought-iron girders and cast-iron pillars, resting on
concrete footings. The openings between the pillars are
filled up with common brick, lined on the inside of the
engine and dynamo room, to about 7ft. Gin. high, with
varnished pitch-pine. A brickwork partition separates the
boiler-house, which is 74ft. long by 55ft. wide, from the
engine and dynamo room, 74ft. by 63ft. 6in. Two chimney-
stacks have been built, one at either end of themain boiler flue,
which runs along the boiler-house side of the partition wall.
One chimney has a sectional area at the top of 30 square
feet, and is 85ft. high; the other chimney measures 23*5
square feet at the top, and is 110ft. high. Great care had
to be taken with the foundations, as the natural bed is no
less than 75ft. below the present ground-level, the inter-
vening soil being made ground.
Contents of Buildings. — ^The station at present contains
plant capable of a total output of 600 kilowatts, in the
following units : One 250-kilowatt alternator, three 100-
kilowatt alternators, one 50-kilowatt alternator — each
machine being rope-driven by means of a separate engine.
The year's operations dealt with in this paper were, how-
ever, carried out by three 100-kilowatt alternators and one
37J-kilowatt alternator.
The general arrangement of the machinery in the
station consists of three double fined Liancashire boilern,
manufactured by Messrs. Robey and Co., Lincoln. General
particulars : Working pressure, 1201b. per square inch ; all
plates of the best Sitmens-Martin mild steel ; diameter of
shell, 7ft.; length of boiler, 28ft.; boiler shell plates, y^in.
thick; flue plates, yV°- thick; end plates, fin. thick;
number of flues, two; diameter of flues, 2ft. 9in. ; 12
Galloway tubes; heating surface, 750 square feet; grate
area, 38 square feet Two of these boilers have been fitted
with Messrs. Bennis s mechanical stokers, and one of them
with Messrs. James Proctor's stoker, The figures of a test
with theee stokers will be given later in the paper. N.B. —
Two additional boilers have been fixed for the extensions'
now proceeding, fitted with Proctor's stokers.
Engines and Dynamos. — One vertical compound engine by
Robey and Co. General particulars : Cylinders, 11 in. and
18in. diameter, by 12iD. stroke ; speed, 200 revolutions [Mr
minute; flywheel, 6ft diameter, grooved for eight lin.
ropes ; power, economical load, 75 i.h.p., with 1001b. steam
pressure at the engine stop-valve. The engine is fitted
with automatic expansion gear, and with Mejrer's adjust-
able cut-ofi on the L.P. cylinder. This engine drives a
37^1dlowatt Mordey-Victoria alternator with an E.M.F. of
2,000 volts effective at a speed of 650 revolutions per
minute.
Three compound horizontal fixed engines by Messrs.
Bobey and Co. General particulars : CyRnders, 16in. and
26^in. diameter, by 36in. stroke, fitted with the Bowland-
Bichardson trip valve gear; speed, 73 revolutions per
minute; flywheel, 1 5ft. diameter, grooved for 12 l|in.
ropes; weight of flywheel, five tons. N.B. — The fly-
wheels are being weighted with an additional five tons
each. Power, economical load, 175 i.h.p. ; maximum
working load, 240 i.h.p., with 1101b. pressure of steam on
the engine side of the stop-valve.
These engines each drive a 100-kilowatt Mordey-Victoria
alternator at a speed of 430 revolutions per minute. Each
alternator is excited independently by means of an exciter
connected direct to the alternator shafts. Another engine
of the same class has lately been erected for the purpose of
driving a 250-kilowatt Mordey-Victoria alternator. General
particulars : Cylinders, 19|in. and 33in. diameter, bv 40in.
stroke ; speed, 70 revolutions per minute ; flywheel, 17ft
diameter, grooved for 13'l|in. ropes; weight of flywheel,
15 tons ; power, economical load, 400 i.h.p. ; maximum
load, 500 i.h.p. ; with 1101b. of steam on the engine side
of the stop- valve.
Water-Feed Apparatus. — One Glo'ster Duplex pump,
to throw 800 gallons per hour ; two Holden and Brooke s
exhaust injectors, fitted with auxiliary live-steam nozzles,
each delivering 600 gallons per hour at about 170deg J".; one
additional injector, as above, for the plant extensions now
going on.
Switchboard. — Several forms of high-tension switches have
been tried, but none have been found quite satisfactory. A
permanent switchboard is now being aesigned to suit the
company's requirements.
Use of Plant. — For the light day and night load, the
high-speed vertical engine is employed, the other machinery
being brought into use as the service requires. The
circuits, four in number, are coupled together or separated
as the load varies.
Distribution. — The electrical energy is distributed by
means of four main circuits of concentric cable, insulated
with vulcanised rubber, drawn into cast-iron pipes, of which
nearly 10 miles have now been laid. The system adopted
is that of one pipe, one cable, and means are provided at
the street boxes by which the service may be treated either
as a radial one or as a network, without disturbance to the
insulation.
Cables. — The inner and outer conductors of the con-
centric cables are separated at each junction or lead-in,
and are terminated by means of metallic washers, which
are screwed down and clamped together on porcelain insu-
lators. The system of mains is thus quite flexible, and
changes in connection are made as easily and expeditiously
as at a Post Office test-box.
Street Boxes. — The street boxes are built of brick, set in
cement, and protected from surface leakage by double cast-
iron covers.
Transformers. — The transformers employed are, in
general, those of the Elwell-Parker design, varying in
capacity from 1 e.h.p. to 10 e.h.p., and are usually placed in
cellars, upon the premises of the individual consumers. The
Mordey, Rapp, Swinburne, and Tyne transformers are
being experimented with.
Meters.^The " Shallenberger " is in general use, with
some Aron, Ferranti, Thomson-Houston, and Frager meters
under trial.
fTorking Results. — As already stated, the company did
not commence the supply of electrical energy until 189 0
538
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
and then only experimeD tally. It was simply a year of
conBtruction and organisation. Neverthetess, the progreaa
diagram, Fig. 6, which accompanieB this paper cannot fail,
it is thought, to be of interest, as showing the comparative
rapidity with which the service developed within the area
of the city covered by the operations of this company,
so soon as the preliminary delays were overcome.
Commencing from the 1st of January, 1891, it will
he seen that by the end of the year the lamps in-
stalled equalled 431,000 watts, rising from 253,000
at the beginning of the year, or a mean of 342,000 watts.
During the year 244,470 units were metered at the con-
sumers' premises. The units metered at the station
amounted to 327,821, showing a loss from all causes in
distribution of 25'4 per cent. Dividing the total watt-
hours Bold during the year by the mean capacit}- in watts
installed, we get a result of ^*^'*''^ " ^-^^^ = 714 as the
average lighting hours per annum. That is to say, our
annual output was equivalent to running all the lamps
installed tor 714 hours — practically two hours per day per
lamp,
Charachr and Class of llie Inslallalions.— 'With the excep-
tion of the post office and the public library, the inatalla
tions are small rather than large, there being no hotels and
few restaurants, but mainly shops, offices, and private
houses ; the ret result being a low load factor of 8-16 per
cent. By the term " load factor " we mean the ratio of the
units sold to the units that could be sold if all the lamps
were always on. Thus,
Metered watt-hours x 100
Mean watts installed x number of hours in the year
244,470 X 1,000 x 100 „ .^
— '. '- = 8'16 per cent.
342,000 X 8,760 ^
Frxce. — The price charged by the company has been de-
scribed as the " phenomenally low one of 4Jd. per B.T.U."
(less 6 per cent, discount). With gas costing only Is. lOd,
(less 10 per cent, discount) per 1,000 cubic feet, it is quite
evident that, whatever advantages the electric light
possesses over gas, it would be difficult to obtain a higher
price than 4Jd. Believing that at this price a profit could
be earned, we recommended the company to charge this
low figure, and we may say that our anticipations have
been realised. The problem was, therefore, how to pro-
duce the unit at a low cost, and to obtain custom in
sufficient amount to earn a fair dividend upon capital
invested. N.B. — It may be objected that the period of
work upon which this statement is made is too limited to
inspire confidence ; but we venture to think that, once
having overtaken our establishment charges, the commercial
prospect will improve rather than the reverse.
Cost of Produdian : Coal. — The company uses small steam
coal, supplied and delivered by the Gosforth and West
Moor Coal Com))auy at the average price, over the year,
of 53. lOd. per ton. Since 2,300 tons of coal were used,
the quantity of coal burnt per unit sold amounted to
^jjl*^".^;.^^? - 21,0741b., at a cost of 0G63 of a penny.
244,470
It is to he noted that this coal bill includes all con-
sumption for trial runs of new plant, various testing work,
banking and making up of fires, steam heating to offices,
and for all other purposes. We consider that it would be
interesting, and of value, if a relation could be established
between the result as given above and the results : (1 ) If a
standard Welsh coal had been used ; {2) with water-tube
boilers, burning small steam coal, with mechanical stokers ;
(3) with water-tube boilers, burning Welsh ccal, both (2)
and (3) being worked under the same conditions with
respect to the load factor as in our own case. For the
purpose of facilitating such u comparison, we give
analyses of Welsh coal and of that used by us — as the
theoretical value per pound of coal, showing a difference in
favour of Welsh coal of 31 per cent.
Goeforth and
VVelib coal. We«t Moor.
Carbon 14-500 x -M U-500 x "WS
Bjitogva 62-032 X COM - -V) 62032 x [-053 - 'Vj
Snlphnc ..,_ 4-032 x -OlS 4-032 x 0124
Asb per cent. ■f9 13'«
Heatunits 14,833 11,300
TheoTstical evapora-
tive efficiency in
iKKindg of water
from, nnd ftt 212
deg. F., deducting
asli in both cases ... Mfib I1-75
Or including asli 14'69 10'17
It may here be remarked that the difference in cost
between the best Newcastle coal and that used by us is
generally about 50 per cent. It is quite evident from tho
foregoing analyses that, in order to compare our results
as to weight of coal per unit sold with London figures, a
fair-sized divisor would be required. Our want of sufficient
data does not enable us, unfortunately, to state what that
divisor ought to be. We are in hopes of being enlightened
on that point during the discussion ou the paper.
fCaler Acmitnt. — All the water consumed at the station
for all purposes was measured by a Kennedy water-meier,
which registered 2,922,000 gallons for the year. To arrive
at the amount of the water evaporated, a deduction of
10 (>er cent, is made to allow for such items as washing
out and filling up of boilers, cleaning down lavatories,
buildings, etc. The allowance being made, we have, as the
total water evaporated to steam, 2,639,800 gallons, or a water
-. ^A (2,629,800x10 mi r.ii, y
consumption per unit sold ot ■— — = lUi jIo., at
a coat of 0-1053 of a penny per unit generated, or at
the station = 107'5 x 075= 80-631b. The average evapora-
tion of the boilers thus becomes —
Pounds of water per unit sold _ 107-5 _ 5.1 ]b
Pounds of coal per unit sold 2r074
We have obtained an evaporation of from 71b. to 81b. ol
water per pound of coal with the boilers working under
the best conditions; the difference, 7'5 - 5'l = 2-4lb., is
accouDted for principally by banking of fires at times ol
low load and heating up of standing engines.
Oii.—OW averaged 0'0014 gallon, at a cost of 0'0*4 of a
penny per unit sold.
Wastt, Sweat Cloths, and Sundry Stores. — These work out
at 0'55 of a penny per unit sold.
Hrpairs. — Repairs to buildings and plant at the station
amount to 0-2480 of a penny per unit sold. This sum
includes everything necessary to maintain the machinery
at its full efficiency, and also to carry out somesmall altera tions
that exjierience suggested for the improvement of the plant.
lAibouT and Supervision. — It is found that al the period of
maximum load the staff necessary to run three 200-h.p.
engines and three 100-unit alternators consists of one
station assistant, one engine driver, and one stoker. Three
sets of men are employed, arranged in shifts of eight hours
each, with one hour overlap for cleaning, oiling, etc. Tho
coat ot the service, inclusive of proportions of the manager's
and secretary's office charges, works out at 1 '9462 pence
per unit sold. The cost of all service external to the
station over nearly 10 miles of mains, leads-in, trans-
formers, meters, etc., is 0'2817 of a penny. To these
figures have to be added the general charges, which amount
to 0-6807 of a penny. Summarising the cost, we have —
d. d.
Coal 0-68.1
Oil 0-OMO
Petties 0-0579
Water 0117 : 0-8819
Repairs 0-3480
Labour anda upervisioo 0'8163
ExtBrnal 0-2817
General (rent, rates, taxes, law, sundry eiponaos] 0-61107 : 2-0*267
Per unit sold 2-9«»SG
Capital, — When the capital account is closed for the
works in progress, it is estimated that for each kilowatt
installed an expenditure of £50 will have been incurred.
This result will in all probability be reached by the end of
the present year, when, as shown by the progress diagram,
the plant erected will be capable of working at GOO kilo-
watts, or of dealing with 800 kilowatts wired, leaving one-
fifth reserve plant.
Plant Efficiency. — We shall now consider some of the
points in connection with the plant efficiency, it being
always borne in mind that the results actually obtained
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
639
are over a period of 12 moDtha, with a mean load factor of
S'16 per cent.
Boilers.— With a view to the economising of labour, and
to abate the emoke nuisance as far as possible, the boilers
were fitted with mechanical stokers, as already stated. The
following is a table showing the result of a test between
the two classes of stokers now in use :
Storbk Tests, July S a.sd IS, 1S91,
g
= J
h
«i
Description nt firing.
-S
1
1*1
is
88.
3-=
11
Hi
BGDnifl stoker and ban.
1,750
2,402
7-02
Proctor „
1,920
07%
e%
16'2Z
• In favour of Proctor's stoker.
We have found the boilers supplied to us to be each
capable of generating eteam for 240 i.h.p. at the engine
cylinders without due forcing. The boilers are generally
fed through exhaust ateam injectors, assisted by auxiliary
live-Eteam jets, the average temperature of the feed-water
being about 170deg. F.
Jyoitr. — The water used is of a medium quality, having
15deg. of hardness.
Engines.— Tha engines are fitted with steam-jackets io
both the high-pressure and low-pressure cylinder. The
steam, on its way to the low-pressure cylinder, paBses
through an intermediate receiver, where its temperature
is raised, and probably some of the contained water re-
evaporated to steam, by means of a coil of piping, through
which a passage of live steam is maintained.
iSynflffws.^The directors have been much pleased with
the satisfactory reports which have come in from the con-
sumers regarding the steadiness ol the light, which is in
part due to the good governing of the engines, and to the
incidental advantage that the Mordey-Victoria alternators
possess in the momentum acquired by the revolving field
magnet, Improvements are being introduced as suggested by
experience, and the 250-unit alternator now in course of
erection is fitted with an outer bearing. The mechanical
construction of the armatures also improves with each suc-
ceeding make. The oiling arrangements, by means of small
pumps driven from the alternator shafts, have proved very
effective.
Station Output and EBckncy. — The E.M.F. of the
dynamos is measured by Cardew voltmeters, and the cur-
rent by means of Evershed ammeters, the readings being
taken every half-hour and posted in the engine-room day-
book. The correctness of the various ammeters is checked
from time to time by comparison with a Siemens dynamo-
meter, which is again checked in the laboratory of the local
College of Science. The principal data are as follows :
Units meberod at the coQiumerB' 244,470
Station units 327,821
Lobs in distribntion 2&'4%
Total running hours at thestatioD 7,504
Indicated horse-power hours 939,500
Average indicated horse-power per hour »a»^auo„ 125-2
Unitfl per running hour (at the station) ™i_ = 43'686
Average watts per indicated horse-power per hour _' . . — 34S
Weight of water per indicated horse*power per
hour, inclusive ai radiation and oondeDSBtiOD
losses „ 2,629.800x10^ 2,.g„l,
939,500
Average commercial efficiency of engines and
dvoamos Totol E.KP. for the year ^ loo = 46'e%
' Total I. H. P. (or the year
Parallel IForking. — Trials have been made to work in
parallel, with only a partial success. The trials called
attention to the varying angular velocity of the engine fly-
wheels, due to the early and quick cut-off of the trip valve
gear. We hope to obtain successful results bj^ increasing
the weight of the flywheels, which work is now in progress;
also by increasing the elasticity of the drive by the use of
spring pulleys arranged on the principle of the traos-
miasion dynamometer, in place of the ordinary pulley.
As a uniform turning effort is the end to be aimed at,
we believe that the steps we are taking will accomplish
that result.
Distribution. — The installations on the consumers'
premises, as shown in the progress diagram, amounted to
431,000 watts on December 31st, 1891. The nominal
transformer capacity supplying the above was 391,000
watts, or an excess of installed watt capacity to transformer
provision of 9 per cent. The percentage of excess has been
reduced by the recent extension of small shop-lighting,
etc. ; it had previously been run up to as high as 25 per
cent
The object we bad in doing this was to keep the average
transformer efficiency as high as possible, and at the same
time to avoid undue fall of pressure in the service. That
this course may be safely carried out, if we discriminate
between those consumers who burn all their lamps simul-
taneously and those who never by any chance do so, i*
supported by an examination of the progress diagram. It
will be observed that the average proportion of lamps
lighted at any one time to lamps installed, is about 45 per
cent. Taking the extreme case on the sheet, we have a
proportion of 28 per cent, excess. We find the average
lighting hours per annum of the various classes of con-
sumers on the company's mains to be as follows :
Restaurants. Shops. OlScee, Private Lausea.
1,663 459 499 344
As previously stated, the distribution losses from all causes
average 25'4 per cent, over the year. The loss is incurred
from two sources— transformer and line losses. Weekly
observations are taken, by means of Lord Kelvin's milli-
ampere-meter and a low-reading Siemens dynamometer, for
the purpose of checking and comparing these losses.
Summary. — Summarised, the chief results embodied in
this paper are :
1. Load factor (as per definition) 8'16 %
2. Lo»s in distribution 25'4 %
3. Average lighting hours per annum 71*
*. Coal biU per unft sold 21-0741b.
5. Wator=107*5+10 per cent, for water deducted for
efficiency results IIS'S
6. Pounds of water evaporated per pound of coal, bank-
ing, etc., inclusive - 5'llb.
7- Water coasumpbion per indicated horse- power hour 37'911b.
8. Engine and dynamo average efficiency „ 46 "6 %
QmtTol Conclusions. — Much discuBsion has taken place on
the merits of the various methods of supply. We have
had to consider the matter from a purely commercial point
of view, having regard only to giving an efficient service,
at the least cost, and quite without prejudice in favour of
any particular system or mode of working. That the
results have been obtained by the use of separate trans-
formers in the consumers' premises, without a secondary
network, by machinery constantly running, with no storage
except the coal heap, gives some ground for believing that
in alternating-current distribution there exists a means of
supplying the public with electric energy, and of meeting
parliamentary and other obligations, at a price which is
satisfactory to the public, and affords investors a reasonable
interest on their capital. It may be stated to those
interested in sub- transformer station distribution that the
average losses in direct distribution over this year have
been reduced from 254 to 195 per cent., and as
the load increases it is hoped that further reductions will
take place. Also, the total cost of the unit sold equals
2-9086 pence, which includes everything except directors'
fees and legal charges.
Railway Yards, — There is a great deal more work n
arc electric lighting that might be done than is yet carried
out for railway companies' goods yards and open shunting
places. Proiukbly in many cases only a definite scheme or
an application in the right quarter is needed for considerable
contracts to result. "The Midland Railway have recently
set a good example in their Leeds and other stations in the
introduction of extensive electric pUnt.
540
THE ELECTRICAL ENGtKEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
THE
ELECTRICAL ENGINEER.
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Price Threepence ; Post Free, Threepence Halfpenny.
Editorial and Pablishinsr Offices :
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Notes 629
Crystal Palace Exhibition ... 534
Ampere-Centimetre — A
Measure of Eleotromag-
netism 536
Electrical Distribntion by
the Newcastle-on-Tyne
Electric Supply Company 536
'Bus Lighting 540
Pains and PencJties 541
Correspondence 541
Institution of Electrical
Engineers 542
Triple-Pole Main Switch ... 542
Weaving by Electricity 543
Experiments with Alternate
Currents of High Poten-
tial and High Frequency 543
Physical Society 545
The Telephone System 546
Electric and Cable Railways 547
London Chamber of Com-
merce— Electrical Trade
Section 548
Legal Intelligence 551
Companies' Meetings 551
Business Notes 551
Provisional Patents, 1892 ... 552
Companies' Stock and Share
List 552
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AU communications irUended for the Editor should be addressed
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'BUS UOHTIMO.
It goes without saying that the more ways found
for the consumption of electrical energy, the better
it will be for central stations. It matters little
whether current is supplied to turn a sewing
machine, cook a chop, or charge a battery — ^the
main object is to increase the demand. The new
departure in 'bus lighting may have no immediate
effect upon the demand from central stations, but
if such lighting becomes general such demand
will arise. We sometimes rashly accuse men in
responsible positions for being too conservative,
and showing little desire to try new - fangled
inventions. When the matter is thoroughly
examined, it may be found that, so far from being
averse to introduce improvements, larger or smaller
sums of money, and much time and trouble, are
spent in testing the said improvements. It has been
so in the case of 'bus lighting. No one admires the
existing stinking oil lamp, but till quite recently all
the attempts to get some other practical light in its
place have ended in failure. As is well known,
most of the omnibuses are lighted under contract
with Mr. Willing. That gentleman is keen enough
to understand that improved lighting may be
satisfactory in more ways than one, and for
years past has had under trial various methods
by means of gas and electricity. Primary and
secondary batteries have been tried and failed, till
Mr. Niblett, manager of the Lithanode and General
Electric Company, in conjunction with Mr. Hymns,
manager for Messrs. Willing, solved the problem.
The battery used is a five-cell battery, constructed of
Fitz6erald*s lithanode plates, fitted into a box. The
terminals are led to two contact-pieces on one
side of the box. The battery so arranged is put
into a well under the driver's feet, in which
are two contact-pieces leading to a 5-c.p. Edison-
Swan lamp. So far, the battery has been under
a continuous practical test for about three
months, with results so satisfactory that a con-
tract has been entered into to supply, and elec-
trically and mechanically maintain, the lights in the
omnibuses upon one of the London Boad-Gar
Company's routes. If this extended experiment is
satisfactory, the intention is to fit up the greater
number of omnibuses plying in our streets with the
electric light. Such an extension would mean a
fairly large demand of current at various convenient
centres in this huge metropolis, as it would be
extremely inconvenient to cart the batteries back-
wards and forwards to one place for charging. The
success of batteries under the rough conditions which
hold in omnibus traffic ought to give us fresh heart
that more extensive use will be made of them in
self-contained tramcars. In the latter case, how-
ever, to the mechanical difficulties are added the
difficulties due to the requirements of an extremely
rapid discharge at varying intervals of time. From
the aesthetic point of view, the improved method of
lighting omnibuses will be heartily welcomed. These
vehicles are at no time palaces of comfort, but there
are times when, what with the evil smell from the
lamps, the flickering light, added to other discomforts, a
seat in an omnibus means a tmaox taste of purgatory.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
541
PAINS AND PENALTIES.
Boots — these necessary articles of human attire
seem destined to become somewhat conspicuous, so
far as we are concerned, for, as our readers will see,
we are threatened with the direst pains and penalties
of the law unless we retract all we said in our note
on page 389. The law of libel is so very peculiar
that it may be we are heaping coals of fire upon our
heads by referring to this case. Many of our readers
will recollect the man who was called to account for
his libel upon a woman — ** She was ten years older
than she looked ! " Under threat of condign punish-
ment he retracted — " She wasn't ten years older
than she looked." It is our misfortune to be unable
to take in all this rigmarole about **odic force*' and
"odic magnetism." If business-men will tamper witj^
things they know not of, they must expect some
sharp criticism. We have nothing to retract from
what we have said. The people who are led to con-
sider the buying of boots because of some high-sounding
farrago and scientific nonsense have to depend upon
technical journals for words of warning and advice.
Most emphatically, the putting of a magnet in the
heel of a boot is no more efficacious in curing
bronchitis or in renewing brain power than the
rubbing of the head with a piece of wood would be.
Mr. Randall is depending upon the ignorance of a pur-
chasing public in order to obtain a higher price for
something that has absolutely no value of the
kind he puts upon it. A good boot may be of
immense value in keeping the foot dry, and so pre-
venting a possibility of bronchitis; but that a
magnet in the heel of the boot will cure the
bronchitis is quite another matter. The moment
Mr. Bandall will prove the efficacy of the magnet,
so soon we will apologise to any extent he pleases.
There are plenty of men we know to whom a
renewal of *' brain power" would be a godsend.
Perhaps we are given a little that way ourselves.
What a grand chance for scientific investigation !
Will Mr. Randall supply the boots ? we will supply
the corpuses. We shall also be happy to insert any
communication from Mr. Randall that tends to
prove him correct in his statements. Our aim is to
obtain facts, and not to be satisfied with the
exuberant outpourings of the imaginations of quasi-
scientific investigators.
CORRESPONDENCE.
« One man's word U no man's word,
Justice needs that both be heard."
THE EDITOR REQUESTED TO RETRACT.
Sir, — The attention of my client, Mr. Henry Edward
Randall, of Northampton and of London, has been called
to a most offensively-worded article with reference to the
mode in which he conducts his basiness, contained in vour
issue of the 22nd ult, under the heading *' Electroforce
Boots," and although the article would have no weight
whatever with persons who had full knowledge of my
client and of the methods pursued by him in the large and
successful business which ne has carried on for upwards of
20 years, yet it would undoubtedly most gravely prejudice
him with persons who had not the benefit of this know-
ledge, and who would no doubt, after readins your article,
be careful not to have dealings with a tradesman whom
you stigmatize as resorting to " dodges " in carrying on his
business, to practising on the " gullibility " of the public,
and to countenancing measures for selling his goods which
" sail perilously near false pretences.'* Your article, more-
over, winds up by a statement that the way in which my
client is introducing to the public a new boot, which is
called the electroforce boot, is *' unworthy the name of a
respectable tradesman."
Now these are grave and libellous statements, for which
my client instructs me that there is not a shadow of
foundation, but as they hare been made by you in a
journal which has a certain circulation, and you have
thought fit to publish this statement to the world through
the medium of your paper, I have now, on behalf of my
client, to request that you will insert in your next number
a full and detailed retraction and apology (in the same
portion of your paper and with the same prominence as
that given to the libellous statements in question), and that
you will pay for the insertion of such retraction and
apology in such paper or papers connected with the boot
and shoe trade as may be designated by my client.
Failing hearing from you in the course of the week
that you accept these terms without qualification and
reserve, and with the draft of the proposed retraction and
apology for my perusal and approval on behalf of my
client, I am instructed to take immediate steps for the
vindication of my client's character, and to obtain exemplary
damages for the gross and unwarranted libel committed on
him. — I am. Sir, yours obediently,
Ralph Raphael.
59, Moorgate-street, London, E.C.,
May 26th, 1892.
METROPOLITAN ELECTRIC SUPPLY COMPANY'S
BALANCE-SHEET.
Sir, — As an investor in electric light companies' shares, I
was much interested in the article in your issue of the 6th
inst. on the report and accounts of the Metropolitan Electric
Supply Company. Before the appearance of your article it
had been my intention to take some further shares in this
company, but since its appearance 1 have made it my duty
to look closely into the report and accounts, and the opinion
at which I have arrived, as the result of this investigation,
does not agree with that of some of your contemporaries as
to the value of this company's shares ; and as there may be
other investors similarly placed, I trust you will allow me
to set forth my reasons for arriving at this conclusion.
They are as follows :
This company commenced operations in 1888. I have
before me the report and accounts for the 15 months ending
31st December, 1890, and for the 31st December, 1891. 1
find from the former of these reports that the number of
lamps at the close of 1889 was 14,000, and at the close of
1890, 48,000. The following are also extracts from this
company's report : ''The company's stations at Whitehall,
Sardinia-street, Rathbone-place, and Manchester-square are
now completed " ; and, " it is confidently anticipated that
the new station for the Paddington district, the machinery
for which is in a forward state, will be at work in time for
next winter's lighting, and " these stations, with the mains
and other necessary plant, will about absorb the company's
present issue of capital."
I also find, from the accounts accompanjring this report,
that up to the 30th September, 1889, the sum of
£11,408. 9s. 4d. — proportion of directors' fees, salaries, rent^
rates and taxes, consulting engineers, law, etc., chaises —
were placed to capital account, and £13,025. 13s. lOd. as
a proportion of similar charges to the 31st December, 1890,
was also placed to capital account, making a total of
£24,434. 3s. 2d. Although this appears a very large sum
with which to load capital, it is possible that, owing to the
work of construction and completing all their stations, it is
justified ; but the fact of their declaring in the same report
a dividend of 2s. per share, and intimating that their lamps
had risen to 58,000, seem to imply that they had, if not
altogether, at any rate very nearly, left the construction
and entered into the revenue-producing sU^e, and that the
revenue account in future would show the mil expenditure.
On referring to the report and accounts for the year
ending year 1891, 1 find a dififerent state of aflfairs to what
642
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
might be expected from the for^^ing. Instead of the
Paddington station, " with the maine and other neceBsary
plant, being completed " for " about the company's present
usue of capital," I find that additional capital to the extent
of £100,000 is required for this purpose, and although the
number of lampe at the end of the year had reached
8S,000, and consequently the company might now be said
to have emerged from the construction stage, capital is
i^n debited with no less than ^£9,459. 17b. lid., as a pro-
portion of directors' fees, salaries, etc. — charges which are
usually debited to revenue — thus nuking the total of such
chains as transferred £33,894. Is. Id. It would be inte-
reeting to know what this is worth as an asset. Although
the amount transferred to capital account for these charges
during 1891 almost equals the gross profits shown in the
revenue account, this is only accomplished after this account
has been credited with the sum of £3,027. Is. 3d., being
the amount allowed by contractors in lieu of coal, oil,
water, etc., during the erection of installations. In my
opinion this item certainly requires some further expla-
nation, and one naturally asks if this is the proper account
for it to be placed to. On comparing the coal and oil, etc.,
accounts for the two years, I do not find that those of 1891
are out of proportion with the 1890 accounts. If it is held
that the sum covers both years, then " net revenue "
account, in my opinion, is the proper account, and not the
revenue account for the year.
With an average of, say, 70,000 lights connected for the
year, a dividend of 4s. per £10 share, after transferring
£9,469. 17a. lid. of expenses to capital, and crediting that
account with an item of £3,027. Is. 3d., which cannot be
expected to occur again, and with the whole of the original
capital spent, the result cannot be considered a very satis-
factory one, and I cannot agree with a contemporary of
yours which states that this company's £10 shares at
£7. lOs. are the cheapest in the market.
I am beholden to you for your article, which has enabled
me to make these investigations, as it has made me pause
before taking any further shares, and I feel sure that other
investors considering them will be led to make similar
investigations. — Yours, etc., Actuary.
Hay 31, 1892.
ELECTRIC LOCOMOTIVES : A CORRECTION.
Sir, — A passage in the newly-published fourth edition
of my "Dynamo-Electric Machinery" requires correction,
being technically inaccurate. On page 616 the statement
occurs that the electric locumotives of the South London
Electric Railway are now being replaced by some of
Messrs. Siemens's locomotives. la justice to Messrs.
Mather and Flatt it ought to be stated that the 14originaI
locomotives supplied by them ore still running, and that
they have run in the a^regate no less than 450,000 miles.
The two more recent locomotives supplied by Messrs.
Siemens do not replace, but are supplementary to, the
original engines. — Yours, etc.,
Juno 1, 1892. SiLVANOS P. Thompson.
better than Mr. Crompton, who was therefore asked to say
a few words about the loss sustained.
Mr. R. E. B. Crohfton had often spoken to the memben
and always with pleasure ; but that time it was with a very
different feeling. He had that day returned from the
funeral of their friend. He said nothing about his private
feelings, as be had lost a man whom be really liked better
than any other. He had been very closely connected with
him for many years, and never had a quarrel. But
speaking from the point of view of the loss which the pro-
fession— in fact, be might say Englishmen as a whole — tad
sustained, he believed it was only in that room where it
would be thoroughly realised. There were many in the
room who had, like himself, experienced the great usiet-
ance of Mr. Willans. Mr. Willans was one of those modest,
unassuming men who would stand at your side and give
you advice which you found of incalculable value, and he
did it in such a way that you thought tbe si^gea-
tion came from yourself more than from him ; but
now that be had gone a great many would find the
diiTerence. He did not think that the outside world knew
that in Mr. Willans they had lost probably the greatest
steam engineer of the time. That was his opinion, and
he believed it was the opinion of a great many others
who thought they knew. He was in the prime of life, and
bad just begun to make his opinions felt. He believed
another few years would have made the whole world
acknowledge that in Mr. Willans they had a man who hod
revolutionised the whole of steam engineering. It wu very
sad that his career should have been cut short in the
melancholy manner it hod been. It only showed what a
little stood between them and eternity. He did not know
what he could add to what be had said, further than that
he believed nowhere in tbe world would a more hearty
vote of sympathy arise than from the members of the
electrical profession, whose labours Mr. Willans hod so
greatly aided, and nobody would more greatly regret the
gap his death had left among them.
The names of new candidates for election into the loati-
tution were announced, and, this being the last meeting
of the session, were balloted for.
The President announced that tbe Council had made
their first award of the Salomons scholarship, value £35,
to a matriculated second-year student in the Central Insti-
tution electrical engineering department — Mr. C. H. C.
Woodhauae. He then called on Mr. A. W. Heaviside
and Mr. R. G. Jackson to read their paper on " Electrical
Distribution by the Newcostle-on-Tyne Electric Supply
Company," which we reprint elsewhere.
TRIPLE-POLE MAIN SWITCH.
Mei-srs. Dorman and Smith have recently "tripled"
their £ type main switch, and tbe result is shown in the
IHSTtTUTION OF ELECTBICAL
ENGINEERS.
The tvro hundred and fortieth ordinary
general meeting of the Institution was held at
Uie Institution of Civil Engineers, 25, Great
Qeorge-Btreet, Westminster, on Thursday even-
ing. May 26, 1891, Prof. W. E. Ayrton, F.R.S.,
president, in the chair.
Before proceeding to the business of the
meeting, the President bad a melancholy duty
to perform in announcing the lamentable death
of Mr. Willans. It was quite unnecessary, he
said, for him to say anything to make the
members appreciate this loss to the society. Mr. Willans
was a man of great scientific attainments, as well as
being a verv distinguished engineer. Not only was it
a loss to tne aociety, but to tbe electrical engineering
profesaion, and that at tbe present time must be regarded
M a loss to their country. Nobody knew Mr. Willasa
illustration. This has been done to meet the callof some
of the supply companies who are desirous of breaking tbne
wires simultaneously. The arrangement, as will be sees,
consists of mounting three sudden-releaM double-break
main avritches side by side, and working them by means
of a single handle on an insulatAd shaft
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
543
WEAVING BY ELECTRICITY.
The council of the Blackburn Technical School has
recently witnessed some exceedingly interesting experi-
ments at the loom works of Mr. Henry Livesey, Green-
bank, Blackburn. The experiments were made to test
the application of electricity as a motive power for
looms, and they proved to be eminently satisfactory.
Mr. Livesey is a member of the Technical School
Council, and when it was found that the dynamo at the
school was capable of generating far more power than
was required for merely lighting the building, he suggested
that some of the current should be used to drive looms.
The assistance of Mr. Thomas Barton, electrical engineer,
of Ainsworth-street, Blackburn, was sought for to arrange
the methods of driving;. Mr. Livesey generously put the
power, a loom, and space at the disposal of the council, and
after experiments extending over a considerable time the
diflSculties were conquered, and the loom is now in full work-
ing order by the now power. It is interesting to note that
the very same loom won Mr. Livesey the medal at the Paris
Exhibition. The loom is one used for plain goods, and
it has a weaving space of 44in. The whole of Mr.
Livesey's works are lit by the electric light, generated
by a dynamo in the basement. The mains have been
connected to a motor which drives the shaft and runs
the looms in the ordinary way. The speed is regulated
by a switch, and the motion is so beautifully steady
that the loom can be run from an exceedingly slow
speed up to 300 "picks'' a minute. If it were fixed
on a solid floor, even a still higher rate of speed could be
obtained. There is sufficient power at the technical school
to run 16 or more looms. Experiments will be made to
see whether the arrangement can be made an economical
one, if applied to a large shed. It certainly would be
where electricity is used for lighting, and where power is
only required for a comparatively few looms. The experi-
ments are felt to be doubly interesting from the fact that
they open up great possibilities for using electricity. Should
the Corporation put down electric light as is proposed, and
the electric light become popular in the houses and shops
of Blackburn, there is nothing to prevent electricity being
adapted to many domestic and other purposes.
EXPERIMENTS WITH ALTERNATE CURRENTS OF
HIGH POTENTIAL AND HIGH FREQUENCY.*
BY NIKOLA TESLA.
(Continued from page 520, )
One of the experiments performed may he mentioned here by
way of illustration. A small piece of pumice-stone was stuck on
a platinum wire, and first melted to it m a eas burner. The wire
was next placed between two pieces of charcoal and a burner
applied so as to produce an intense heat, sufficient to melt down
the pumice-stone into a small glass-like button. The platinum
wire had to be taken of sufficient thickness to prevent its melting
in the fire. While in the charcoal fire, or when held in a burner
to ^n a better idea of the degree of heat, the button glowed
wiui great brilliancy. The wire with the button was then mounted
in a bulb, and upon exhausting the same to a high degree the
carrent was turned on slowly so as to prevent the cracking of the
button. The button was heated to the point of fusion, and when
it melted it did not, apparently, glow with the same brilliancy
M before ; and this woula indicate a lower temperature. Leaving
out of consideration the observer's possible, and even probable,
error, the question is, can a body under these conditions be
brought from a solid to a liquid state with evolution of lees
light? When the potential of a body is rapidly alternated it is
oertain that the structure is jarred. When the potential is
very high, although the vibrations may be few— say, 20,000 per
second — the effect upon the structure ma^ be considerable.
Suppose, for example, that a ruby is melted into a drop by a
steiady application of energy. When it forms a drop, it will emit
visible and invisible waves, which will be in a definite ratio, and
to the eye the drop will appear to be of a oertain brilliancy.
Next, suppose we aiminish to any degree we choose the energy
steadily supplied, and, instead, supply energy which rises and
falls according to a certain law. Now, when tne drop is formed,
there will be emitted from it three different kinds of vibrations —
the ordinary visible, and two kinds of invisible waves : that is,
* Lecture delivered before the Institution of Electrical
Engineers at the Royal Institution, on Wednesday evening,
February 3, 1892. From the JourncU of the Institution of
Electrical Engineers.
the ordinary dark waves of all lengths, and, in addition, waves of
a well-defined character. The latter would not exist by a steady
supply of energy, still they help to jar and loosen the structure.
If tnis really be the case, then the ruby drop will emit relatively
less visible and more invisible waves than before. Thus it would
seem that when a platinum wire, for instance, is fused by currents
alternating with extreme rapidity, it emits at the point of fusion
less light and more invisible radiation than it does when melted
by a steady current, though the total energy used up in the
process of fusion is the same in both cases. Or, to cite another
example, a lamp filament is not capable of withstanding as long
with currents of extreme frequency as it does with steady currents,
assuming that it be worked at the same luminous intensity. This
means that for rapidly-alternating currents the filament should be
shorter and thicker. The higher the frequency — that is, the
greater the departure from the steady flow — the worse it would be
for the filament. But if the truth of this remark were demon-
strated, it would be erroneous to conclude that such a refractory
button as used in these bulbs would be deteriorated quicker by
currents of extremely high frequency than by steady or low-
frequency currents. From experience I may say that just the
opposite holds good : the button withstands the bombardment
better with currents of very high frequency. But this is due to
the fact that a high-frequency discharge passes through a rsirefied
gas with much greater freedom than a steady or low-frequency
discharge, and this will say that with the former we can work with
a lower potential or with a less violent impact. As long, then, as
the gas is of no consequence, a steady or low-frequency current is
better, but as soon as the action of tlie gas is desired and impor-
tant, high frecjuencies ara preferable.
In the course of these experiences great many trials were made
with all kinds of carbon buttons. Electrodes made of ordinary
carbon buttons were decidedly more durable when the buttons
were obtained by the application of enormous pressure. Electrodes
prepared by depositing carbon in well-known ways did not show
up well ; they blackened the globe very quickly. From many
experiences I conclude that lamp filaments obtained in this
manner can be advantageously used only with low potentials and
low-frequency currents. Some kinds of carbon withstand so well
that, in order to bring them to the point of fusion, it is necessary
to employ very small buttons. In this case the observation is
rendered very difficult, on account of the intense light produced.
Nevertheless, there can be no doubt that all kinds of carbon are
fused under the molecular bombardment, but the li(}uid state must
be one of great instability. Of all the bodies tried, there were
two which withstood best— diamond and carborundum. These two
showed up about equally, but the latter was preferable, for many
reasons. As it is more than likely that this body is not yet
generally known, I will venture to call your attention to it.
It has been recently produced by Mr. E. G. Acheson, oif
Monongahdla City, Pennsylvania, U.S.A. It is intended to
replace ordinary diamond powder for polishing precious stones,
etc., and I have been informed that it accomplishes this object
quite successfully. I do not know why the name " carborundum "
has been given to it, unless there is something in the process of its
manufacture which justifies this selection. Through the kindness
of the inventor, I obtained a short while ago some samples which I
desired to test in regard to their Qualities of phosphorescence and
capability of withstanding high aegrees of heat. Carborundum
can be obtained in two forms— in the form of ** crystals ** and of
powder. The former appear to the naked eye dark-coloured, but
are very brilliant; the latter is of nearly the same colour as
ordinary diamond powder, but very much finer. When viewed
under a microscope, the samples of crystals given to me did not
appear to have any definite form, but rather resembled pieces
ot Droken-up egg coal of fine quality. The majority were
opaque, but there were some which were transparent and coloured.
The crystals are a kind of carbon containing some impurities ;
they are extremely hard, and withstand for a long time even an
oxygen blast. When the blast is directed against them, they at
first form a cake of some compactness, probably in consequence
of the fusion of impurities they contain. The mass withstands
for a very long time the blast without further fusion ; but a
slow carrying off or burning occurs, and finally a small quantity
of a glass-like residue is left, which, I suppose, is melted
alumina. When compressed strongly they conduct very well,
but not as well as ordinary carbon. The powder, which is
obtained from the crystals in some way, is practically non-
conducting. It affords a magnificent polishing material for stones.
The time has been too short to make a satisfactory study of
the properties of this product, but enough experience has been
Sained in the few weeks I have experimented upon it to say that it
oes possess some remarkable properties in many repects. It
withstands excessively high degrees of heat, it is little deteriorated
by molecular bombardment, and it does not blacken the elobe as
ordinary carbon does. The only difficulty which I have found in
its use in connection with these experiments was to find some
binding material which would resist the heat and the effect of
the bombardment as successfully as carborundum itself does. I
have here a number of bulbs which I have provided with
buttons of carborundum. To make such a button of carborundum
crystals I proceed in the following manner : I take an ordinarv
lamp filament and dip its point in tar, or some other thics
substance or paint which may be readily carbonised. I next pass
the point of the filament through the crystals, and then hold it
vertically over a hot plate. The tar softens and forms a drop on
the point of the filament, the crystals adhering to the surface of
the orop. By regulating the distance from the plate the tar is
slowlv dried out and the outton becomes solid. I then once more
dip the button in tar and hold it again over a plate until the tar
544
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
Ib evaporated, leaving only a hard mass which firmly binds the
crystals. When a larger button is required, I repeat the process
several times, and I generally also cover the filament a certain
distance below the ontton with crystals. The button being
mounted in a bulb, when a good vacuum has been reached, first a
weak, and then a strong discharge is passed through the bulb to
carbonise the tar and expel all gases, and later it is brouebt to a
very intense incandescence. When the powder is used I have
found it best to proceed as follows : I make a thick paint of
carborundum and tar, and pass a lamp filament through the paint.
Taking then most of the paint off by rubbing the filament against
a piece of chamois leather, I hold it over a hot plate until the tar
evaporates and the coating becomes firm. I repeat this process as
many times as it is necessary to obtain a certain thickness of coat-
ing. On the point of the coated filament I form a button in the
same manner. There is no doubt that such a button— properly
prepared under great pressure— of carborundum, especially of
powder of the best quality, will withstand the effect of the bom-
bardment fully as good as anything we know. The difficulty is
that the binding material gives way, and the carborundum is
slowly thrown off after some time. As it does not seem to blacken
the globe in the least, it might be found useful for coating the fila-
ments of ordinary incandescent lamps, and I think that it is even
possible to produce thin threads or sticks of carborundum which
will replace the ordinary filament in an incandescent lamp. A
carborundum coating seems to be more durable than other coatings,
not only because the carborundum can withstand high degrees of
heat, but also because it seems to unite with the carbon better
than any other material I have tried. A coating of zirconia or
any other oxide, for insuinoe, is far more quickly destroyed. I
prepared buttons of diamond dust in the same manner as of
carborundum, and these came in durability nearest to those
prepared of carborundum, but the binding paste gave way
much more quickly in the diamond buttons; this, however, I
attributed to the size and irregularity of the grains of the diamond
It was of interest to find whether carborundum [xissesses the
quality of phosphorescence. One is, of course, prepared to
encounter two aifficulties : first, as regards the rough product,
the "crystals," they are good conducting, and it is a fact that
conductors do not phosphoresce ; second, the powder, being
exceedingly fine, would not be apt to exhibit very prominently
this quiJity, since we know that when crystals, even such as
diamond or ruby, are finely powdered they lose the property of
phosphorescence to a considerable degree.
The question presents itself here, Can a conductor phos-
phoresce? What is there in such a body as a metal, for instance,
that would deprive it of the quality of phosphorescence, unless it
is that property which characterises it as a conductor ? for it is a
fact that most of the phosphorescent bodies lose that quality when
they are sufficiently heatCKl to become more or le^ conducting.
Then, if a metal be in a large measure, or perhaps entirely,
deprived of that property, it should be capable of phosphorescence.
Therefore it is quite possible that at some extremely high
frequency, when behaving practically as a non-conductor, a metal
or any other conductor might exhibit the quality of phosphor-
escence, even though it be entirely incapable of phospnorescing
under the impact of a low-frequency discharge. There is,
however, another possible way how a conductor might at least
appear to phosphoresce. Considerable doubt still exists as to
what really is phosphorescence, and as to whether the vaiious
Shenomena comprisea under this head are due to the same causes,
uppose that in an exhausted bulb, under the molecular impact,
the surface of a piece of metal or other conductor is renaered
strongly luminous, but at the same time it is found that it remains
comparatively cool, would not this luminosity be called phosphor-
escence ? Now such a result, theoretically at least, is possible,
for it is a mere question of potential, or speed. Assume the poten-
tial of the electrode, and consequently the speed of the projected
atoms, to be sufficiently high, the surface of the metal piece against
which the atoms are projected would be rendered highly incan-
descent, since the process of heat generation would be incom-
parably faster than that of radiating or conducting away from
the surface of the collision. In the eye of the observer, a single
impact of the atoms would cause an instantaneous flash ; but if the
impacts were repeated with sufficient rapidity, they would produce
a continuous impression upon his retina. To him then the surface
of the metal would appear continuously incandescent and of con-
stant luminous intensity, while in reality the light would be
either intermittent or at least changing periodically in intensity.
The metal piece would rise in temperature until equilibrium was
attained— that is, until the energy continuously radiated would
equoX that intermittently supplied. But the supplied energy
might under such conditions not be sufficient to bring the body
to any more than a very moderate mean temperature, especiallv
if the freouency of the atomic impacts be very low— just enough
that the nuctuation of the intensity ot the light emitted could
not be detected by the eye. The Ixxly would now, owing to the
manner in which the energy is supplied, emit a strong light,
and vet be a comparatively very low mean temperature. Uow
coula the observer call the luminosity thus proauced ? Even if
the analysis of the light would teach him something definite,
■till he would probably rank it under the phenomena of phos-
Shorescenoe. It is conceivable that in such a wav both con-
noting and non-conducting bodies may be maintained at a certain
luminous intensity, but the energy required would very greatly
vary with the nature and properties of the bodies. These and some
foregoing remarks of a speculative nature were made merely to
bring out curious featuree of alternate currents or electric
impoliee. By their help we may cause a body to emit more light,
while at a certain mean temperature, than it would emit if brought
to that temperature by a steady supply; and* again, we niay
bring a body to the point of fusion and cause it to emit leas light
than when fused by the application of energy in ordinary ways. It
all depends on how we supply the energy, and what kiiui of vibra-
tions we set up. In one case the vibrations are more, in the otbar
less, adapted to affect our sense of vision.
Some effects, which I had not observed before, obtained with
carborundum in the first trials I attributed to phosphoreeoeno^
but in subsequent experiments it appeared that it was devoid of
that quality. The crystals possess a noteworthy feature. In a
bulb provided with a single electrode in the shape of a small
circular metal disc, for instance, at a certain degree of exhaustion
the electrode is covered with a milky film, which is sepaiated by a
dark space from the glow filling the bulb. When the metal diso
is covered with carborundum crystal, the film is far more intenBe,
and snow-white. This I found later to be merely an effect of the
bright surface of the crystals, for when an aluminium electrode
was highly polished it exhibited more or less the same phenomenon.
I made a number of experiments with the samples of cryatals
obtained, principally because it would have been of special interest
to find that thev are capable of phosphorescence, on account of
their being conducting. I could not produce pnosphorescenoe
distinctly, but I must remark that a decisive opmion cannot be
formed until other experimenters have gone over the same ground.
The powder behaved in some experiments as though it contained
alumina, but it did not exhibit with sufficient distinctness
the red of the latter. Its dead colour brightens considerably
under the molecular impact, but I am now convinced it does nob
phosphoresce. Still, the tests with the powder are not uon-
clusive, because powdered carborundum prooably does not behave
like a phosphorescent sulphide, for example, which could bo
finely i)owaered without impairing the phosphorescence, but
rather like (Ktwdered ruby or diamond, and therefore it would
be necessary, in order to make a decisive test, to obtain it in a
large lump and polish up the surface. If the carborundum proves
useful in connection with these and similar experiments, ito chief
value will be found in the production of coatings, thin conductors,
buttons, or other electroaes capable of withstanding extremely
high degrees of heat.
The production of a small electrode capable of withstanding
enormous temperatures I regard as of the greatest importance in
the manufacture of light. It would enable us to obtain, by means
of currents of very high frequencies, certainlv twenty times, if not
more, the quantity ot light which is obtained in the present incan*
descent lamp by the same expenditure of energy. This estimate
may appear to many exaggerated, but in reality I think it is far
from being so. As this statement might be misunderstood, I
think it necessary to expose clearly the problem with which in
this line of work we are confronted, and the manner in which, in
my opinion, a solution will be arrived at. Anyone who begins a
study of the problem will be apt to think that what is wanted in
a lamp with an electrode is a very high degree of incandescence of
the electrode. There he will be mistaken. The high incan-
descence of the button is a necessary evil, but what is really
wanted is the high incandescence of the gas surrounding the
button. In other words, the problem in such a l^nip is to brine a
mass of gas to the highest possible incandescence. The higher toe
incandescence, the quicker the mean vibration, the greater Is the
economy of the light production. But to maintain a maw of gaa
at a high degree of incandescence in a glass vessel, it will always
be necessary to keep the incandescent mass away from the glass —
that is, to confine it as much as possible to the central portion of
che globe. In one of the experiments this evening a brush was
produced at the end of a wire. This brush was a name, a source
of heat and light. It did not emit much perceptible beat, nor did
it glow with an intense light ; but is it the less a flame beoaose
it does not scorch my band? Is it the less a flame because it
does not hurt my eye by its brilliancy ? The problem is precisely
to produce in the bulb such a flame, much smaller in aiae, but
imcomparably more powerful. Were there means at hand pro-
ducing electric impulses of a sufficiently high frequency, and
for transmitting them, the bulb could be done away with, onleea
it were used to protect the electrode, or to economise the energy
by confining the heat. But as such means are not at disposal, it
becomes necessary to place the terminal in a bulb and rarefy the
air in the same. This is done merely to enable the apparatus to
perform the work which it is not capable of performing at
ordinary air pressure. In the bulb we are able to intensify the
action to any degree— so far that the brush emits a powerful light.
The intensity of the li);ht emitted depends principally on the
frequency and potential of the impulses, and on the elect rio
density of the surface of the electrode. It is of the greatest
importance to employ the smallest possible button, in order to
push the density very far. Under the violent impact of the
molecules of the gas surrounding it, the small electrode is of
course brought to an extremely high temperature, but around i%
is a mass of highly incandescent gas, a flame or photosphere*
many hundred times the volume of the electrode. With a
diamond, carborundum, or zirconia button the photosphere can be
as much as one thousand times the volume of the but-too.
Without much reflecting one would think that in pushing so far
the incandescence of the electrode it would be instantly voUtilised.
But after a careful consideration he would find that, theoretically,
it should not occur, and in this fact— which, however, is experi-
mentally demonstrated — lies principally the future value of such a
lamp. At first, when the bombardment begins, most of the work
is performed on the surface of the button, but when a highly-
conducting photosphere is formed the button is coroparauvely
relieved. Tne higher the incandescence of the photosphere the
more it approaches in conductivity to that of the electrode, aac|
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
545
the more, therefore, the solid and the gas form one conducting
body. The consequence is that, the further is forced the incan-
descence the more work, comparatively, is performed on the gas,
and the less on the electrode. The formation of a powerful
photosphere is consequently the very means for protecting the
electrode. This protection, of course, is a relative one, and it
should not be thought that by pushing the incandescence higher
the electrode is actually less deteriorated. Still, theoretically,
with extreme frequencies, this result must be reached, but
probably at a temperature too high for most of the refractory
bodies known. Given, then, an electrode which can withstand
to a certain very high limit the effect of the bombardment and
outward strain, it would be safe no matter how much it is forced
beyond that limit. In an incandescent lamp quite different
considerations apply. There the gas is not at all concerned ; the
whole of the work is performed on the filament, and the life of
the lamp diminishes so rapidly with the increase of the degree of
incandescence, that economical reasons compel us to work it at a
low incandescence. But if an incandescent lamp is operated with
currents of very high freouency, the action of tne gas cannot be
neglected, and the rules for the most economical working must be
considerably modified.
In order to bring such a lamp with one or two electrodes to
?^reat perfection, it Is necessary to employ impulses of very hi^h
requency. The high frequency secures, among others, two chief
advantages, which have a most important bearing upon the
economy of the light production. Firstly, the deterioration of the
electrode is reduced by reason of the fact that we employ a great
many small impacts, instead of few violent ones, which shatter
quickly the structure ; secondly, the formation of a large photo-
sphere is facilitated In order to reduce the deterioration of the
electrode to the minimum, it is desirable that the vibration be
harmonic, for any suddenness hastens the process of destruction.
An electrode lasts much longer when kept at incandescence by
currents, or impulses, obtained from a hi^h -frequency alternator,
which rise and fall more or less harmonically, than by impulses
obtained from a disruptive discharge coil. In the latter case there
is no doubt that most of the damage is done by the fundamental
sudden discharges. One of the elements of loss in such a lamp is
the bombardment of the globe. As the potential is very high, the
molecules are projected with great speed ; they strike the glass,
and usually excite a strong phosphorescence. The effect produced
is very pretty, but for economical reasons it would be perhaps
preferable to prevent, or at least reduce to the minimum, the
Dombardment against the globe, as in such case it is, as a rule, not
the object to excite phosphorescence, and as some loss of enercry
results from the bomoardment. This loss in the bulb is principally
dependent on the potential of the impulses, and on the electric
density on the surface of the electrode. In employing very high
frequencies the loss of energy by the bombardment is greatly
reduced, for, firstly, the potential needed to perform a given
amount of work is much smaller, and, secondly, by producing
a highly-conducting photosphere around the electrode, the same
result is obtained as though the electrode were much larger,
which is equivalent to a smaller electric density. But be it by
the diminution of the maximum potential or of the density, the
gain is effected in the same manner — namely, by avoiding violent
shocks, which strain the glass much beyond its limit of ^asticity.
If the frequency could be brought high enough, the loss due to
the imperfect elasticity of the glass would be entirely negligible.
The loss due to bombardment of the globe may, however, be
reduced by using two electrodes instead of one. In such case
each of the electrodes may be connected to one of the terminals ;
or else, if it is preferable to use only one wire, one electrode may
be connected to one terminal, and the other to the ground or
to an insulated body of some surface, as, for instance, a shade
on the lamp. In the latter case, unless some judgment is used,
one of the electrodes might glow more intensely than the other.
But, on the whole, I fina it preferable when using such high
f requencies^ to employ only one electrode and one connecting
wire. I am convinced that the illuminating device of the near
future will not require for its operation more than one lead, and,
at any rate, it will have no leading-in wire, since the energy
required can be as well transmitted through the glass. In experi-
mental bulbs the leading-in wire is most generally used on account
of convenience, as in employing condenser coatings in the manner
indicated in Fig. 22, for exampe, there is some difficulty in fitting
the parts, but tnese difficulties would not exist if a great many
bulbs were manufactured ; otherwise the energy can he conveyed
through the glass as well as through a wire, and with these high
frequencies tne losses are very small. Such illuminating devices
will necessarily involve the use of very high potentials, and this,
in the eyes of practical men, might be an objectionable feature.
Yet, in reality, high potentials are not objectionable — certainly
net in the least as far as the safety of the devices is concerned.
There are two ways of rendering an electric appliance safe.
One is to use low potentials, the other is to determine the
dimensions of the apparatus so that it is safe no matter how
high a potential is used. Of the two, the latter seems to me
the better way, for then the safety is absolute, unaffected by
any possible combination of circumstances which might render
even a low-potential appliance dangerous to life and property.
But the practical conditions require not only the judicious
determination of the dimensions of the apparatus ; they like-
wise necessitate the employment of energy of the proper kind.
It is easy, for instance, to construct a transformer capable of
giving, when operated from an ordinary alternate-current machine
of low tension— say, 50,000 volts — wnich might be required to
light a highly-exhausted phosphorescent tube, so that, in spite
of the high potential, it is perfectly safe, the shock from it
producing no inconvenience. Still, such a transformer would be
expensive, and in itself inefficient ; and, besides, what energy was
obtained from it would not be economically used for the pro-
duction of light. The economy demands the employment of
energy in the torm of extremely rapid vibrations. The problem of
producing light has been likened to that of maintaining a certain
nigh-pitcned note by means of a bell. It should be said a barely
audible note ; and even these words would not express it, so
wonderful is the sensitiveness of the eye. We may deliver
powerful blows at long intervals, waste a good deal of energy,
and still not get what we want ; or we may keep up the note oy
delivering freouent gentle taps, and get nearer to the object sought
by the expenditure of much less energy. In the production of
light, so far as the illuminating device !S concerned, there can be
only one rule — that is, to use as high frequencies as can be ob-
tained ; but the means for the production and conveyance of
impulses of such character impose, at present at least, great limi-
tations. Once it is decided to use very nigh frequencies, the return
wire becomes unnecessary, and all the appliances are simplified.
By the use of obvious means the same result is obtained as though
the return wire were used. It is sufficient for this purpose to
bring in contact with the bulb, or merely in the vicinity of the
same, an insulated body of some surface. This surface need, of
course, be the smaller the higher the frequency and potential
used, and necessarily, also, the higher the economy of the lamp
or othoiT device. This plan of working has been resorted to on
several occasions this evening. So, for instance, when the incan-
descence of a button was prc^uced by grasping the bulb with the
hand, the body of the explerimenter merely served to intensify the
action. The bulb used was similar to that illustrated in Fig. 19,
and the coil was excited to a small potential, not sufficient to
bring the button to incandescence when the bulb was hanging
from the wire ; and incidentally, in order to perform the experi-
ment in a more suitable manner, the button was taken so large
that a perceptible time had to ela(>se before, upon grasping the
bulb, it could be rendered incandescent. The contact with
the bulb was, of course, quite unnecessary. It is easy, by using a
rather large bulb with an exceedingly small electrode, to adjust
the conditions so that the latter is brought to bright incan-
descence by the mere approach of the experimenter within a few
feet of the bulb, and that the incandescence subsides upon his
receding.
In another experiment, when phosphorescence was excited,
a ciimilar bulb was used. Here again, originally, the potential
was not sufficient to excite phosphorescence until the action was
intensified — in this case, however, to present a different feature,
by touching the socket with a metallic object held in the hand.
'Hie electrode in the bulb was a carbon button so large that it
could not be brought to incandescence and thereby spoil the effect
produced by phosphorescence. Again, in another of the early
experiments, a bulb was used as illustrated in Fig. 12. In this
instance, by touching the bulb with one or two fingers, one or two
shadows of the stem inside were projected against the glass, the
touch of the finger producing the same result as the application of
an external negative electrode under ordinary circumstances.
(Toht continued,)
PHYSICAL SOCIETY.— May 18, 1892.
Dr. £. Atkinson, treasurer, in the chair.
Mr. Gerrans was elected a member of the society.
After a paper by Mr. B. Inwards on '^An Imitnimeiit Ite
Drawing Parabolas,"
Mr. F. H. Nalder exhibited and described '* Some Kleotrieal
Instmmenta." The first shown was a ballistic galvanometer with
one pair of coils, the distinguishing features of which were
accessibility, small damping, great sensitiveness, and the arrange-
ment of the controL The control is effected b^ a tail magnet
carried on a horizontal tube, supported by a pillar outside the
case, as suggested by Prof. R. M. Walmsley. A small magnet on
the cover serves for zero adjustment. The suspended system con-
sists of four bell magnets, two being in the middle of the coil and
one at top and bottom respectively, arranged so as to be astatic.
The sensitiveness of the instrument shown was such that a quarter
of a microcoulomb gave 300 divisions (fortieths of an inch), when
the periodic time was 10 seconds and scale distance about 3ft. ; resist-
ance of galvanometer about 10,000 ohms. To bring the needle to rest
quickly, a damping coil mounted on an adjustable stand and a special
reversing key with resistances in its base are provided. The key
has successive contacts arranged so that when pressed lightly only
a weak current passes round the damping coil, whilst when pressed
further a much stronger current passes. The strong currents are
used to check the large elongations, and the weak ones for finally
bringing to zero. A lampstand with semi-transparent B(»le
arranged for use with a glow lamp was next shown. Instead of
reading by the image of the filament, as is ordinarily done, the
lantern is arranged to give a bright disc of light with a black line
across the middle. Mx. Blakeeley asked if the galvanometer waa
astatic. For damping non-astatic ones he had fbund it useful to
wind several turns of wire round the bobbin, and put them in
series with a few thermo-electric junctions warmed by the hand
and a key. In reply, Mr. Nalder said the galvanometer waa
astatic, but the damping coil could be placed so as to act on one
pair of magnets more than on the other.
A paper on " A Portable Inatriiment Ite Measuiiic Macaetlo
nelda, witb Bene Ojaerfttem 9m tbe SiNiicth of tba Mrajr
546
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
Flaldi of DynABUM/' by Mr. X. BdgAr and Mr. H. Staasfleld,
was then read. The instrument was described as an inversion of
a d'Arsonval galvanometer, for the torque necessary to maintain a
suspended coil conveying a constant current parallel to the field
^ves a measure of the strength of the field. The constant current
IS furnished by a Hellesen's dry cell, which the authors found
remarkably constant. The instrument consist^* of a coil of about
50 ohms wound on mica, and suspended by two German silver
stripe within a tube. A pointer is nxed to the mica, and a divided
head, to which the outer end of one strip is attached, serves to
measure the torsion. Within the head chamber is a commutator
which automatically reverse the current in the coil when the head
is turned in opposite directions from zero. Two readings may
thus be taken to eliminato gravity errors due to waiit of perfect
balance in the coil. Means are provided for adjusting and
measuring the tension of the suspensions. The constant of the
instrument was det-ermined by placinc^ the coil in the field of
a Helmholtz galvanometer, and found to. be 0*293 per Ide^.
Any other field is therefore given by 029 3 (w + 1) 0, where 0 is
the angle of torsion in d^rees, and n the multiple of 50 ohms in
series with the coil. Fields from two or three C.G.S. line*»
upwards can be measured to about 2 per cent, by the instrument,
and even the earth's field is appreciable. The authors have tested
the fields of dynamos at the Crystal Palace Exhibition and else-
where, and the re8ults obtained are given in the paper. It is
noted that the stray field of multipolar machines fall off much
more rapidly than those of two-pole dy names as the distances are
increased, and that near edges and corners of the magnets the
fields are much stronger than near flat surfaces. The disturbing
effect of armature reactions on the strength of the stray field were
measured and shapes of the field observ^ in some cases. Ex()eri-
ments on magnetised watches are described in the paper.
Mr. Whipple said the Kew Committee were to some extent
responsible for the experiments described, for it was on
their account that the investigations were commenced. In
connection with the rating of so-called non-magnetic watches,
it was necessary to know what strength of fields they were
likely to be subjected to. The instrument devised for making
the tests was a very interesting one, and the results obtained by it
of great value. Mr. A. P. Trotter hoped the authors would
supplement their work by tracing out the directions of the
fields of dynamos, and he described a simple method of doing this
by a test needle used as an indiarubber stamp. The question of
watches, he thought, must be considered soon ; even non-magnetic
watches were stopped by being placed in strong fields, owing to
Foucault currents generated in the moving parts. Mr. Blake^ey
enquired whether the instrument could be used in any position.
He thought three obser\'ations would be necessary to completely
determine anv field. Bfr. Stansfleld, in reply, said they used a
pilot needle for showing the direction of the fields, and then
placed the coil accordingly. The instrument could be used in any
position, for the weight of the coil was only about two grammes,
and did not greatly alter the tension of the suspensions, which was
usually about 300 grammes. A watch with a brass balance was not
influenced by a field of 10 C.G.S. lines, but seriously affected by
one of 40.
THE TELEPHONE SYSTEM.
The following Treasury Minute, dated May 23, 1892,
upon the proposals for the development of the telephone
system in the United Kingdom has been issued as a
parliamentary paper :
My Lords have before them the proposals of the Postmaster-
General for carrying out the policy wnich has been adopted by her
Majesty's Government for development of the telephone system in
the United Kingdom.
1. It is the object of these proposals, while preserving the pro-
perty in the telegraphs, whicn has been paid for by the nation, to
secure that expansion of the telephone system which is called for
by public opinion and the necessities of commerce. It is impos-
sible to continue the present system under which the telegraph
revenue is seriously suffering, while, on the other hand, the exten-
sion of telephones is checked in a manner which cannot be perma-
nently maintained. The proposals of the Postmaster-General will
enable the telephone companies and the I'ost Office to co-operate
in services to the public.
2. The telephone companies are at present restricted to oral
communications. The scheme prepared by the Postmaster-
General will in one direction, as hereafter explained, remove that
restriction ; and it proposes the establishment of trunk wires
throughout the United Kingdom.
3. Unless trunk wires are in the hands of the State, a monopoly,
injurious to the public interest, would inevitably ensue, to toe
aavantage of the company which first Laid down such trunk wires.
4. If, on the removal of the restriction to oral communications,
the companies were allowed themselves to write down and deliver
messages and a network of trunk wires were spread over the
country, by private enterprise, the distinction, established by Mr.
Fawcett, between the business of the companies and of the Post
Office would disappear, and rival systems of telegraphy would be
working side by siae where Parliament intended Uiat there should
be onlv one.
5. For this reason it is proposed that the Post Office shall write
down and deliver the messages, and that the Post Office shall pro-
vide a national system of trunk lines. United action on the part
of the companies and the Post Office is necessary to the sacceBS of
the scheme.
6. It is proposed that the companies should abandon their right
to construct trunk wires, and that the Poet Office should purchase
from them such as they have already erected ; and that in addition
to this the Post Office should gradually provide additional trunk
wires, so that there may ultimately be a complete system of com-
munication between all the important towns in the kingdom. It
is further proposed that a connecting link between Great Britain
and Ireland should ' be furnished by a submarine cable, and that
the whole system should be open, not only to the subscribers of the
companies, but also to any member of the public who may choose
to come to a post office for the purpose of using it.
7. The companies will connect tneir exchanges with the offices
of the Post Office, in order that their subscribers may telephone
messages — (a) for transmission over the public telegraphs ; (6) for
transmission through the post as letters ; (c) for delivery as express
letters ; {d) that they may call for the service of express
messengers ; and may {e) request to be placed in telepnonic
communication with other towns by means of the trunk wires of
the State.
8. The Post Oflice will make no charge for the services of its
officers who attend to the wires connecting the exchanges with the
local [)08t offices, and will pay the companies a commission of 5 per
cent on ordinary telegrams telephoned to those offices for trans-
mission by the public telegraphs.
9. The Post Office will withdraw its veto on the establishment
by the com^mnies of {.mblic call offices in the houses and shops of
8ub-(K>stma8ter8. It will, further, be a consideration whether, if
the convenience of the department will permit it, head, district,
and branch post offices should be allowed to be used as call offices,
etc., subject to such payment by way of rent as may be agreed on.
10. As far as practicable, the Post Office will provide under-
ground wires at an agreed rent to connect together the exchanges
of a company within one and the same exchange area, so that the
municipal authorities may not have to complain of their streets
being aisturbed by the companies, which, in some places, might
be in competition.
11. The Post Office, where it can permit telephone companies to
use railways, canals, or other property over which it has acquired
exclusive rights of way for telegraphs, will charge a nominid sum
of Is. per mile of wire instead of 208 as at present.
12. Parliament, by a Bill now about to oe introduced, will be
asked to confer on the companies, subject to the consent of the
local authority, powers for the erection of the wires required to
connect their exchanges with the houses of their subscribers.
13. The messages telephoned to post offices for delivery will
have to be limited in length, and it is proposed to adopt the two-
fold limit of three minutes and 30 words. The charge will be the
same as for an ordinary express letter — viz., 3d. — if the address be
within a mile of the post office where the message is written down.*
14. For conversations on the trunk wires of the State the fol-
lowing charges will, it is thought, be equitable, while, at the same
time, sufficient to secure a margin of profit* : For any distance not
exceeding 20 miles, 3d. ; for any distance exceeding 20 nailee and
not exce^ing 40 miles, 6d. ; for every additional 40 miles or
fraction thereof, 6d.
15. A charge of 6d. for 40 miles has been sanctioned by the
Treasury for the trunk wires already provided by the Poet Office,
but the charge of 3d. for 20 miles is new. The Post Office con-
sider it necessary that there should be this lower charge for the
short wires. Longer distances cannot be charged for at a leas
rate, as, although it is true that the terminal expenses are a fixed
quantity, the expenses of construction and maintenance will, even
in proportion, increase greatly with the length of the line. Where
a submarine cable is used, or where exceptional expense is incurred,
an additional charge will be made.
16. As in the case of the London-Paris Telephone line, the
period of each conversation will be three minutes, and two con-
secutive periods will be allowed for a double payment.
17. My Lords will examine with care sucn schemes as may be
successively submitted by the Post Office for the gradual construe-
tion of new trunk lines. In the course of a few months wires can
be erected on existing poles from London to certain principal
places, and progress can be made as convenience permits with
further wires in many directions. These works would be carried
out in such a manner as to supplement and extend the system
acquired from the companies.
18. It must be clearly understood that the right of the Poet
Office to establish telephone exchanges, which was reserved by Mr.
Fawcett, will be maintained, the department holding itself ready,
as in the past, to comply with the reasonable demand of any town
or district for telephonic facilities.
19. As to fresh licenses, no further license for the whole country
will be granted ; and even for a license to establish an exchange
in a particular town no application will be entertained unleoB a
formal resolution in its favour has been passed by the corporation
or other municipal authority, and evidence given that there is
sufficient capital subscribed to carry out the undertaking. In
this way competition will not be excluded, but a check will be
imposed on the formation of companies whose sole object it is
to force the existinp^ licensees to buy them up. But although
this is the policy which commends itself to her Majesty's Govern-
ment, it must be distinctly understood that, should lioeneee
hereafter be granted on otner principles, no company now or
hereafter to be licensed will have any ground to complain of
* These charges are independent of the chargee which the
companies make on their own account for sending a telephone
message.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
breach of contract or want of good faith on the part of the Post-
master-GeneraL It will be a condition of any license to a new
company that their system must be constructed entirely of twin
wires or metallic circuits, so that there may be an assurance of its
efficiency.
20. The royalties now payable by the companies to the State
will remain unchanged. The other conditions imposed by their
licenses will remain unchanged, except so far as they may be
modified by the policy indicated in this minute.
21. In conclusion, it may be stated that the intention is to meet,
as far as possible, the views of municipal authorities, to aid the
telephone comj)anies in the improvement of their exchange system,
to place additional facilities at the disposal of the pubuc, and to
establish trunk wires between the more important towns through-
out the country. My Lords concur.
Let a copy of this minute be laid before Parliament.
ELECTRIC AND CABLE RAILWAYS.
The following extracts show the part taken by the
London County Council in connection with the proposed
electric railways, and the Joint Committee of the Lords and
Commons, whose report we gave in our last issue :
Electric and Cable Railways.
In accordance with the resolutions of the Council we submitted
the views of the Council on this matter to the Joint Committee of
both Houses of Parliament, and supported the same by the evi-
dence of the agent, the engineer, the chairman of this committee,
and the chairman of the Housing Committee. The chairman of
the Parliamentary Committee of the London County Council was
requested by the Joint Committee to submit a memorandum, and
the following memorandum was accordingly submitted to the Joint
Committee of Lords and Commons :
It may be desirable to explain that, in suggesting certain
amendments to safeguard the public interest, the Council has no
wish to take up a position hostile to the promoters of the Bills now
under consideration by the committee. The Council is, on the
contrary, impressed with the great importance of providing
London with additional means of internal communication, and its
only desire is that all the various schemes should, in the interest
of London's future growth, be dealt with upon broad general
principles, so as to make the lines as useful as possible to the
public, not only of this but also of future generations. It must be
borne in mind that once any of these lines is constructed, it will
be for many years practically impossible to construct any other
along the same route ; nor can the tunnels, once made, be after-
wards enlarged, except at an enormous cost. It is therefore
inevitable that the proposals of the promoters should be closely
scrutinised, as involving the deprivation of the people along that
route of the possibility of an alternative service.
The questions now to be decided will go far to establish the
principles which will be followed in all future cases, and affect not
the present proposals alone, but all future electric lines.
Uniformity of Tunnelling. — The first point urged by the Council
is that the size of the tunnels should be uniform for all the London
lines. It will be unnecessary to dwell upon the desirability of
insisting that the lines should be so constructed as to permit
of interchange of traffic with each other. Without uniformity of
tunnel, uniformity of gauge may easily become of no use. It is
impossible at present to foresee exactly what form of rolling-stock
may be found most convenient for this new class of railway, and
no one line ought to be allowed to adopt a dimension of tunnel
which may be found hereafter to hamper the full development of
London's internal communication as seriously as the old "battle
of the gauges " hampered English railway development. At
present the bills before the committee propose three different
dimensions of tunnel — viz., lift. 6in., 12ft., and 16ft. It is sub-
mitted that a uniform tunnel dimension should be determined on
by the committee.
Conntction imih Existing RaU^oays. — If the committee decide upon
a uniform tunnel dimension, the Council urges the importance of
BO constructing the lines as to leave open the possibility at some
future time of interchange of traffic with the existing railways
serving the suburban belt. The value of this interchange is recog-
nised by one of the Bills before the committee— viz., the Great
Northern and City Railway, which includes proposals for connec-
tion with the Great Northern Railway Company near Finsbury
Park, and of which the tunnel is accordingly to be 16ft. in
diameter.
In connection with its work relating to the housing of the poor,
the Council is impressed with the absolute necessity for facilitating
a greater spreading of the population. It is of vital importance
to the future well-Being of London that every possible opportunity
should be taken to promote cheap and rapid communication
between every part of inner London and what is at present the
outer suburban Delt. The Council would regard it as a serious
calamity to London if the proposed lines were so constructed as
absolutely to preclude their forming easy connections with the
suburban lines of railway at some future time.
In support of this contention the experience of the Metropolitan
and Metropolitan District Railways may be alluded to. Intended
originally only as '* circle " lines, they have both found it expe-
dient to stretch out into the suburban belt, in order to accommo-
date the traffic caused by London's constant expansion.
It may very possibly be found equally necessary for the full
success of the electric railways that they should possess direct
communication with the outer suburbs, rising gradually to the
level of the surface railways at a distance of some miles from
central London, as the Great Northern and City Railway already
proposes to do near Finsbury Park. The possibility of mutual
running powers ought not therefore to be precluded.
It has oeen ur^ea that this object is secured so far as it is prac-
ticable by the uniformity of gauge, which would permit the light
carriages of the electric lines to run on the present railways,
although the rolling-stock of the latter would not be able to enter
the deep and narrow tunnels. But it is felt that such an arrange*
ment might easily prove illusory. It must be doubtful whether
trains of the peculiar pattern contemplated by the promoters
(other than those of the Great Northern and City Railway) could
in practice safely be run amid the crush of morning and evening
traffic on the existing lines.
It has been urged that ordinary steam locomotives could not be
worked at the great depth proposed. But even if this must
always be the case, the possibility of electric locomotives being
used on the existing railway lines may at any rate not be abso-
lutely excluded from consideration. The form and size of the
rolling-stock contemplated by the promoters can scarcely be
regarded as other than experimental. No one would assert that
the style of omnibus carriage at present in use is entirely satisfac-
tory. The promoters might fairly be required, in the interests of
the public, to leave open the possibility of adopting the dimen-
sions actually suggested by one of them— viz., the Great Northern
and City Railway. Already in the short history of electric rail-
ways has there been a marked tendency to increase the dimensions
of the tunnel. The tunnel first proposed for the City and South
London Railway was only Oft. 6in. This was altered to 10ft. The
Central London Railway Act of 1891 contemplated a tunnel of
lift. 6in., which is the size now desired by the City and South
London Railway Company for their Islington extension. The
Baker-street ana Waterloo Railway Bill seeks power for a 12ft.
tunnel, which is also the dimension desired for the Waterloo and
City Railway. Finally, the Great Northern and City Railway Bill
proposes, as has been already mentioned, a tunnel of 16ft.
In this experimental stage of the invention, and with the actual
tendency to expansion already indicated, to make the standard
tunnel dimension lift. 6in. or 12ft. only, would seriously hamper
the possibilities of improvement. A 16ft. tunnel would not prevent
the use of lift, rolling-stock, should this hereafter be found the
most convenient size. But a 12ft. tunnel might absolutely prevent
the adoption of a whole host of what were found to be desirable
improvements.
The committee is therefore asked to adopt the proposal of the
Great Northern and City Railway Bill — viz., 16ft.— as the standard
tunnel dimension for all electric railways within the London area.
Construction from Point to Point. — The next question which the
Council ask the committee to determine is the general direction of
the lines. It is for the interest of the public that the shortest and
most direct routes should be followed in all cases. Surface railways,
and those constructed on the **cut and cover" principle, are
necessarily forced to depart from these routes, in order to avoid
valuable property. But at the great depth proposed, this con-
sideration becomes less material, as all that need be granted is
what is virtually an ** eeuement of tunnelling," with an obligation
to pay for actual damage only. But in order to avoid even this
compensation (or still more, the legal questions that might be
raised if no explicit declaration is inserted in the Bills), the
promoters propose to turn and twist their lines so as to follow the
direction of main streets. And as the public authority has, in
most instances, no actual freehold in the streets, it is contemplated
that no claim can be made by it upon the promoters.
It is, however, submitted that considerations of this kind should
not be allowed to interfere with the best possible planning of the
lines in the public interest. It is highly objectionable that the
assumed lack of power in the public authority to claim the same
compensation for damages as a private freeholder should further
militate against the public interests by encouraging an unneces-
sarily lengthy and tortuous construction of the Unes.
It has l^n admitted by the engineer to the promoters that if
the lines could pass under houses without any greater cost than
under streets, it would be desirable, in order to avoid unnecessary
curves, to do so.
The Council accordingly suggests that the lines should,
wherever physically possible, be ouide direct from point to point,
and that an *' easement or right of tunnelling" should be estab-
lished, carrying with it the obligation to pay only for actual
damage, ana that, in this respect, the public authority should be
placed, as regards the streets, upon the footing of a private free-
nolder where no other freeholder can show title.
Power to Purchase. — A further principle which the Council
urges the committee to adopt is the grant of power to it, as the
local authority, to purchase the lines in a manner similar to that
laid down for tramways and electric lighting works. It may be
observed that it is not proposed that the lines should in any sense
" revert " to the local authority without payment (as is the case
with foreign concessions), but merely that the local authority
should have compulsory power to purcnase on fair terms, after the
expiration of a reasonable period. A compulsory power to
purchase is given, in the case of all English railways, by the Act of
1844, to the National Government. But it is urged that as the
lines now proposed are in many respects more a!kin to tramway
than to railway lines, the more recent precedents of the Tramways
Act should be followed, due modification being made for the
greater cost of the works.
In the absence of any new principle, it will perhaps be assumed
that the Act of 1844 would apply to the proposed electric railways.
64S
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
But if only to avoid such litigation as that which ensued upon the
desire of the PostmcMter-Oeneral to apply to the telephones the
provisions of the Telegraph Act, it is desirable that it should be
clearly laid down whether the proposed electric railways are to be
deemed to be included in the Act of 1844.
To the compulsory power of purchase which would in that case
be given to the National Government, the Council desires to offer
no objection. But whether or not these electric lines are, for that
purpose, to be treated as railways, the Council would strongly
urge that their close analogy to tramways should also be con-
sidered. Thev are essentially local in their character, and the
Council woula suggest that, whatever power to purchase is given
to the National Government (which is in the highest degree
unlikely ever to exercise it), power of purchase should also be
given to the local authority upon the principle adopted in the
cases of tramways and electric lighting works.
In support of this contention, the Council would urge that the
electric railways are avowedly intended merely as a substitute for
tramway locomotion, and that the promoters resist any obligation to
undertake the additional services — such as goods tralhc, convey-
ance of cattle, minerals, etc. —performed by ordinary railways.
The position of the local authority with regard to them is very
analogous to it-s position with regard to tramway companies. In
the latter case the promoters seek power to use the surface of
streets, in which the local authority has usually no fee-simple, but
only easements of various kinds. In the case now under considera-
tion the promoters seek power to occupy not the surface, but the
subsoil, in which the local authority equally has extensive ease-
ments, and of which it, in certain cases, possesses the freehold.
It is submitted that a valuable privilege is sought by the pro-
moters ; that it is not proposed by them to make any payment to
any public authority in res()ect of that privilege ; that the effect
of granting it must necessarily be the creation of a virtual monopoly
which cannot fail seriously to affect the public interest ; and that
it is extremely undesirable to establish such a monopoly without
giving some authority representing the public the legal power to
review its conditions, after the lapse of a reasonable time, in
order that any future injury to the public may be prevented.
The Council is prepared to admit the view that the great cost of
the works proposed, and their necessarily experimental character,
warrant the grant of a longer period of enjoyment of the monopoly
than in the case of the tramways. The period of 21 years, adopted
also for electric lighting works, was afterwards enlarged in the
case of the latter to 42 years. For electric railways the Council
has suggested that the period might reasonably be fixed at 60
years, a term beyond the expectation of life of any investor.
LONDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE— ELECTRICAL
TRADE SECTION.
ANNUAL MEETING.
The annual meeting of the Electrical Trade Section of the London
Chamber of Commerce was held at the offices of the Chamber on
Friday last. Amongst those present were Mr. R. E. Cromplon
(the chairman of the section), Major Flood Page, Messrs E. (iarcke,
Alex. Siemens, W. T. Gaine (National Telephone Company),
Colonel Jackson, R. S. Erskine, A. R. Bennett, James Taylor,
R. J. Jenkins, C. L. Davies, Geo. B. Woodruff, Henry Edmunds
(W. T. Glover and Co.), VV. R. Caldwell Moore, F. Faithfull Begg.
Mus^raveHeaphy, Alfred Thompson, W. W. Beaumont, \V. G. Bond,
G. Binswan?er, Llewelyn B. Atkinson (\V. T. Goolden and Co,),
S. Morse, Alex. MacGregor, and Robert Hammond.
The Clialmuui, in opening the proceedings, stated that it was
his duty to inform them that his period of office had now expired,
and he would wish to refer brieny to the work which they had
gone into during the past two years, and to foreshadow the work
which still lay oefore them. Speaking generally, he thought he
might say that they had reason to congratulate themselves on the
success which had attended the formation of the section. He
thought it had to a certain extent promoted what was intended —
viz., intercourse between the memoers of the profession. They
had met frequently to discuss matters of mutual interest, and that
had been the means of causing those who looked upon each other
as trade rivals to meet on more of a friendly footing, and had had
the effect of combining them into one for the promotion of objects
of common interest. He did not propose to take up their time by
enumerating anything like all the different topics that had been
dealt with by the section. Fortunately, in one way, they had all
been so busy that they had not had time to attend meetings as they
might have done, and Questions that might at a less busy time
have been discussed had not been touched. Unfortunately, from
one point of view, the section had lately been in antagonism with
the Board of Trade on the question of overhead wires. It arose
out of a decision of the Board of Trade not to permit'the use of over-
head wires under any circumstances, a decision which appeared to
be manifestly unjust, seeing that they had laid down a code of
regulations on the subject on the strength of which a great deal
of capital had been expended. He was not one of those who
upheld the use of overhead wires in crowded cities, but in
rural districts, where electrical energy had to be carried over lone
distances, it was one of the methods which seemed to lend iteelt
most easily to distribution at a moderate cost, and he thought
that the decision of the Board of Trade was one that was to be
combated with all their strength. As a consequence of the deci-
sion some months ago they mA practically canvassed the whole
profeesion through the instnimentaliby of the Chamber of Com-
merce, and had been enabled to present so powerful a petition to
the Board of Trade that they had at once practically reconsidered
their decision. He would not criticise the way in which they had
reconsidered their decision. He thought it was k>etter to " let
sleeping dogs lie," but he was of opinion that the trade in future
would not be treated in such a brusque manner. One or two impor-
tant matters had been begun by them, but had not been carried
forward, principally, he supposed, on account of the happy state
of the trade, which left them little time for the consideration of
abstract business. He alluded to the standardising of machinery
in order to make it as interchangeable as possiole. The only
practical part carried out was the standardising of the screws used
in their machinery. He thought that 99 per cent, of the electrical
manufacturers were now using the form of screw which had^ been
f»roposed by the Small Screw Committee of the British Association.
t was universal in England and was interchang^ble with the
Swiss screw, and was, therefore, practically international. By the
agency of the section they had also been able to arrange a vimt
to the Frankfort Exhibiuon last year in a body, under conditions
which would not have been possible as individuals. They had also
been able to do some useful work in connection with another exhi-
bition, that at the Crystal Palace. They had secured its postpone-
ment after a conference with the directors of the Crystal Palace.
If it had taken place when it was originally proposed, the display,
he thought he might venture to say, woula not nave been half so
good OS it was. The display had only reached its height in the
middle of February, and that was some months later than the date
at first determined on by the Crystal Palace authorities. The
result, he thought, showed that the exhibition was all the better
for postponement. One of the burning questions before them was
the (question of the telephones and the telephone service in London
and m all England. It was a question as to how far the interests
of the telephone companies and those of the heavier electrical
industries could be brought together so as not to clash. In some
respects it appeared as if these interests did clash, and it would be
a great pity if vast sums of money had to be expended on law if
these questions could be settled by friendly meetings between the
representatives of the different interests. He had to intimate his
retirement from the chairmanship of the section — a post which he
had tilled for a longer time than he had intended. He regretted
leaving the chair, and be only hoped that his successors would
find it as pleasant a duty to serve them in the future as he had
found it in the past.
Colonel Rasrnsford Jaekson said that no one could have failed
to observe the energy and the knowledge which Mr. Crompton
had brought to bear on the various subjects that had come before
the section during the time he had presided over them. Feeling
that Mr. Crompton was the right man in the right place, be had
much pleasure in proposing his re-election.
Kr. B. J. Jenkins, in seconding this, said that they were only
giving expression to a feeling of more than satisfaction at the able
way in which Mr. Crompton had filled the post.
BIr. Cromi>ton said he appreciated their great kindness and the
honour which they meant to do him, but it was impossible for him
to continue. There were many rea^ns why it was desirable that
they should have a change. He was rather overworked already,
and it was a feeling of great annoyance to him that he had not
been able to give the work of the section the time and attention it
deserved. To continue, he felt would not be to do justice to his
own business and tiie work of the section. He had considered the
matter carefully, and his decision was irrevocable. There was an
excellent gentleman to be nominated whom he thought would be
acceptable to them all.
Mr. Graroke said that, as vice-chairman, it might be oonvenient
that he should add a few words to what had been said by Colonel
Jackson. They had used great efforts to get Mr. Crompton to
withdraw his resignation, but without success. He was only
echoing the sentiments of all when he said that they received
Mr. Crompton's resignation with deep and sincere regret. At
the same time, it heSi to be recollected that Mr. Crompton bad
served them for four years. It was only right, therefore, that tiie
chairman and the two vice-chairmen (Major Flood Page and him-
self) should on that occasion tender their resignations so as to
afford the members the opportunity of appointing snooessors.
They had occupied office longer than was usual according to die
precMsdents of other trade sections. He believed the rule was
usually to elect new chairmen and vice-chairmen every two years.
It ought also to be remembered that the post had been a serious
addition to Mr. Crompton's numerous engagements. Mr. Crompton
had rendered them service not onlv as the chairman of the section,
but also to the whole electrical inaustry at large throughout the
country. It had been a great pleasure to him to work with Mr.
Crompton as a colleague. The one question alone to which he
(the chairman) had referred — that of overhead wires—involved a
great deal of trouble and anxiety. They received the resignatini
with great regret, but as Mr. Crompton s decision was irrevooabk^
he thought he would be in order in proposing that, while th^
reluctantly and with ffreat regret occeptecf the resignation of Mr.
Crompton, they should api>oint a successor, and he would suggest
the name of Major Flooa Pa^e, the senior vice-chairman olTtbe
section since its formation, ana one who had devoted considerable
attention to its affairs. Major Flood Page did not require any
introduction from anyone.. As chairman of the Edison and Swan
Company he had had opportunities of being in touch with every-
one in the industry. He had an intimate acquaintance with tul
the subjects that was likely to come before them, and he believed
he was onlv serving the interests of the industry in proposing that
he should be their chairman. He would also suggest that their
chairman and vice-chairmen be appointed for a fixed term— «i^,
two years.
TfiE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
S4d
This was seoonded by Mr. Mnagtrnw HM^Iiy, and on being put
to the meeting it was declared carried unanimouslv.
Mr, KnUne proposed that Mr. Garcke should be reelected
vice-chairman. This was seconded by Mr. Xbner and agreed to.
Major Flood Page was sure that no one regretted more
heartily than he did that Mr. Crompton should be retiring from
the chair. It had been his pleasure on the day on which the
section had been formed to propose the name of Mr. Crompton as
chairman. He had urged that they should give a unanimous vote
in his favour, and they did so, and he believed that the position
that that section had occupied was very largely due to Mr.
Crompton's influence in the electrical world. As the decision was
irrevocable, however, he had pleasure in proposing the name of
Colonel Raynsford Jackson as the second deputy-chairman.
Colonel Jaekson thanked Major Flood Page for proposing his
name as vice-chairman, but he declined the proffered honour, as he
had not attended the meetings sufficiently often in the past, and he
could not promise such an attendance in the future as would be
befitting toe position.
Mr. Alex. Siemens pointed out to Colonel Jackson that the
duties of the second deputy-chairman would be very light indeed.
Colonel Jackson still declining to allow his name to be put
forward, Mr. Bennett proposed that Mr. Alex. Siemens should be
elected to the vice-chair. This was seconded, and on being put to
the vote was carried unanimously.
Mr. Siemens said he had been somewhat trapped, as he had
been approached by some of the committee a week before and had
distinctly refused. He was reminded, however, by Major Flood
Page, of his own argument to Colonel Jackson, that the duties
would be •* light indeed."
At this stage Mr. Crompton vacated and Major Flood Page
took the chair. In returning thanks for his election, he said he
could not of course pretend to be so fitting a representative as
their late chairman. Mr. Crompton was familiar with the whole
frofessional as well as commercial aspects of the trade. He (Major
lood Page) represented the commercial side only. Ever since
there had been a commercial aspect of electric lighting he had
been identified with it. No one could deprive him of the honour
of being the first to introduce electric lighting into New Zealand
and other British colonies. He would do his best for the interests
of the section, and he knew he would have the advantage of Mr.
Crompton 's experience should he require it.
The next subject to be dealt with was the consideration of the
advisability or otherwise of the section following the precedent of
other sections of the Chamber, in convening the whole of the
membership of the section to all future meetings, abolishing
the standing committee and electing special committees to deal
with special subjects from time to time. The general feeling was
that there could not be two opinions about the desirability of
interesting the whole of the members in the proceedings, and
the suggestion was, therefore, readily agreed to.
The attitude of the trade towards the Chicago Exhibition
formed the next topic of discussion. The Secretary explained
that the Royal Commission which had been organised to
promote the interests of the British exhibitors at tne Chicago
Exhibition, had requested, the Chamber to act as a London com-
mittee. The Chamber had accepted that duty, and, under ordinary
circumstances, they should prooablv have requested the Electrical
Section to consider whether it would take any special steps to be
represented at Chicago. He understood that Mr. Preece, of the
Poet Office, had been occupying himself specially in that question,
and perhaps it mieht be desirable that tney should not appear to
be interfering in his action.
Mr. Siemens thought that they could appoint a committee to
confer with Mr. Preece for the purpose of ascertaining whether the
section could be of assistance in the work.
It was agreed that Messrs. Wharton, Ravenshaw, and Bins-
wanger, with the Chairman and Deputy-Chairman, ex officio^ should
act as axommittee to confer with Mr. Preece.
The telephone question being the next subject for consideration,
the Gludrman said he was told by the secretary that nothing
further had been done since the deputation had waited upon the
Postmaster-General to urge the bringing in of a General Powers
Bill to give the companies compulsory wayleaves.
Colonel Jaokson said he had a few observations to make on the
subject. They were all aware of the existence of an association for
the protection of telephone subscribers, which professed to be
affiliated with the Chamber of Commerce, but he thought that a
recent circular which had been issued by the association would
show that it ought not to be affiliated with the Chamber of
Commerce. It had entered into special arrangements with the
New Telephone Company on behalf of its members, and it had
resolved itself into a canvassing body for the benefit of the New
Telephone Company. The members of the association were to
secure special privileges which were to be denied to the general
public. The circular specially stated that no others would have
the special privileges offered, and agreed to be eiven to the
members of the association. In these circumstances be thought it
was quite impossible for an impartial body like the Chamber of
Commerce to allow of affiliation with it of an association which was
practically nothing more nor less than a canvassing body seeking
advantages for the members of the association at the expense ot
others — to assist one telephone company in opposition te another.
Colonel Jackson then read one or two of the clauses from the
circular referred to, agreeing to give a preference to the members
of that association. It was clear to his mind that such an associa-
tion could not be legitimately affiliated with the Chamber of
Commeree.
The Clialrman said he was informed by the secretary that a
oomplaint had been lodged with the association as to the use
which was being made of the name of the Chamber, and they
had promised to withdraw its use in all future circulars.
Colonel Jaekson did not think that that met the necessities of
the case. He thought that an association which secured certain
privileges for its members from a rival telephone company and
secured them to the exclusion of the general public, ana on the
basis of these privileges resolved it^eli into a canvassing body for
the benefit of one company as aeainst another where a question of
the public service was concerned, was not, in his opinion, entitled
to affiliation with a fair-minded and enlightened Chamber of
Commerce.
Bfr. Jenkins understood that affiliation was denied (No! No!).
In that case he was entirely in sympathy with Colonel Jackson's
views. He was sure that the council of the Chamber must see
that it was not to their interests that they should be made parties
to patronising one scheme as against another.
Mr. Sydney Morse enquired whether the association complained
of was represented at the meeting.
The Clialrman replied that no association was a member of the
section, though there were some individual members of the
association, he believed, present at the meeting. He thought it
was a subject for the council of the Chamber to deal with, and
not for the Electrical Section.
Mr. Morse enquired whether Colonel Jackson was in order in
bringing up the question.
The Clialrman was clearly of opinion that he was in order, as
the telephone question was on the agenda-paper.
Mr. Bennett said that Colonel Jackson had asserted that the
object of the association was to canvass for subscribers to the
New Telephone Company. That was not so. The real object and
origin of the association was to investigate complaints which were
brought forward by subscribers in London against the existing
telephone service. The course they had taken in supporting the
New Telephone Company was a consequence of tnat objeotb
He thought Colonel Jackson had altogether overstated the case
when he said that the object was to canvass for subecribers to the
New Company.
Mr. Thompson thought that Mr. Morse had correctly pointed
out that the agenda did not give a sufficient indication which
would enable any member to have got together sufficient data to
be familiar with the question. The secretary had already stated
that the matter was in a fair way of being quashed. He thought
Colonel Jackson had gone out of his way to exaggerate the
importance of the question by making any reference whatever to
the New Telephone Company. He suggested that nothing further
be done, but that if the question shouldl)ecome of more importance
it should be brought up with a proper notice on the agenda-paper,
so that members who were interested in the association complained
of would have an opportunity to attend and discuss the other side
of the question.
Colonel Jaekson regretted that he did not see Mr. Thompson,
Mr. Haig, and some other members of the association at that
meeting. He was quite certain if they had been, that as fair-
mindea and honourable men they would have seen the impropriety
of the affiliation of the association with the Chamber of Commerce.
He based his objections on the sentences which were in their own
circular, and hence he had not gone out of his way to exaggerate
the position. For these reasons he would move : *' That a repre-
sentation be made to the Council of the Chamber that it is not
desirable that the Association of Telephone Subscribers, whose
action is directed to obtaining from one of two rival companies
special advantages for its own members alone to the exclusion of
others, and which has constituted itself, for the above considera-
tion, into a canvassing body, should be affiliated with the London
Chsmiber of Commerce. "
This was seconded by Mr. Jenkins.
Mr. Tbompson moved an amendment, which was seconded by
Mr. Allirlglit : " That no action be taken by the Electrical Section
in the matter of the Association of Telephone Subscribers and the
New Telephone Company at the present time.'*
On being put to the meeting the amendment was declared
carried, ten voting for and seven against it.
In reference to the question as to what attitude the section
should adopt with reference to the Parliamentary Committee
appointed to consider the question of electricity in London, it was
agreed that the matter had been satisfactorily dealt with by the
Special Parliamentary Committee, and that there was no need for
any action by the section.
The report as to the action taken by the Chamber in reference
to the question of overhead wires, and the reply of the Board of
Trade to the representations contained in the recent memorial was
the next subject on the agenda-paper. The letter to the Board of
Trade, and the reply, were read by the secretary, of which the
following are copies :
'< February 16th, 1892.
** The Right Hon. Sir Michael Hicks-Beach, Bart., M.P.,
** President of the Board of Trade, Whitehall, S. W.
" Sir,— I am desired by the council of this Chamber to forward
to you a copy of a memorial which has been signed by the leading
electrical engineers, as well as by representatives of all the
principal electrical firms in the United Kingdom, as to the use of
overhead conductors.
" The original signatures to copies of the memorial are in our
possession, and can be forwarded to you if desired, but, having
regard to the economy of your time, it was considered preferable
to send you the text of the memorial, with a list appended thereto
of the names and designations of the signatories.
" My council express the hope that the memorial may receive
at your hands the careful consideration which, considering its
650
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
representative choraater, you will probably think it entitled to. — I
I am. Sir, youra meet respeotfully,
"(Signed) Kjsnbic B. Mokray, Secretary."
" Board of Trade (Railway Department), London, B.W.,
" February 23rd, 1892.
'■ Sir, — With reference to the letter addrewed by the London
Chamber of Commerce to the Preaident of the Board of Trade,
endoeine a copy of a memorial signed by a large number of
electrical enfjinBera and repreaentativea of electrical firms in the
United Kingdom, urginK that thia department, should not lay
down as a settled principle that no overhead conductors for the
supply of electric anergy should be allowed, but that,, in rural
districts at least, the circumstances of each particular case should
determine whether overhead work should or should not be
sanctioned, I am directed by the Board of Trade to say that the
memorial in question appears b> have been prepared under a mis-
apprehension of the practice of this department,
"The Board of Ti4deareoF opinion that, as a general rule, the
Qpe of overhead wires is accompanied by many diaad vantages,
both as regards the safety of the public and the efficiency of the
supply of energy, and they think it is most desirable that maina
for the supply of energy under provisional orders or licensee should,
wherever nracticablo. be placed underground,
" They have not, however, laid down any absolute rule that
ovorhead wires should in no case be employed, and while they
have declined, in the absence of any special circumstances, to
approve of a system in which the use of such wires was contem-
plated as a permanent arrangement in the central and populous
portions of a town, they have, on various occasions, where the cir-
cumstances appeared to justify it, and the local authorities
approved, authorised the empSoymeot of overhead wires in rural
districts, or the outlying or less populous portions of towns.
" The Board of Trade see no reason to de[>art from the practice
they hare hitherto adopted of considering each application for
permission to use overhoid wires on its merits, having regard to
the special circumstances of the district ~I am, Sir, your obedient
servant, ' (Signed) Hknrv E. Cai«kaft.
"The Secretary. London Chamber of Commerce, Botolph House,
Bostcheap, E.C."
Mr. Crampton said that with r^ard to the reply from the
Board of Trade, of course if it were taken literally it would put
them in rather a foolish position. It would appear as if they had
been at great pains to prepare a memorial for which there was no
cause. It wee difficult to understand how the Board of Trade
could have penned such a letter in face of the fact that it was at
their own request, mode in the presence of himself and another
member of the (.Camber at an interview at the Board of Trade,
that the memorial had been prepared. An informal meeting took
place at the Board of Trade, when he and the other gentleman who
complained of the action taken in reference to overhead wires had
for answer that the regulations might he modiiied if they could
ascertain that the great body of the trade were against the regula-
tion, and a suggestion was conveyed to tlism that if the great
bulk of the trade were against the regulation it would be well to
memorialise the Department. He only gave that explanation to
justify action which without Chat explanation would seem, occord-
inif to the Board of Trade, to be unnecessary. They had achieved
what was aimed at, and it was better not Ui go farther into the
mattor.
With reference to the by-laws made by the County Council
in pursuance of the Xxtndon Overhead Wires Act, 1391,
which was the next subject considered, the Saoretaiy stated that
some months ago the members bad been circularised on Che
subject, but only a few replies had bean forthcoming, so that there
eby-
The Board of Trade had made an apiraintmeot to consider them,
and to conaider the petition of all parties who had any petJtiOD
to mahe on the 20ch of June- The question was one which
not only affected the companies who were running wires overhead,
but it was a targe public question as well, and be would venture
to move that a small committee should be appoiDbed for the
Earpose of considering these by laws and also for the purpose of
earing the interests affected. It might be that the objections
which were beinp brought forward bv the companies who wore
running these wires might be very right and proper.
Thia proposal was seconded by Mr. Bennett, and on being
put to the meeting it was unanimously ^reed that Mr. Gaines,
Mr. Bennett, and Mr. Edmunds should be appointed a special
:t question — electrical communication on the coasts — it
was felt was being satisfactorily dealt with by the President of
the Board of Trade. It was agreed as far as possible in any
questions of mutual intorest to co-operate with the Mining Election
M the Chamber.
A lively discussion ensued as to the question of electrical
traction, Mr. More* moved that a special oommittee should be
appointed to consider the question, and to see whether the claims
of the two intorests could not be amicably adjusted, and to report
to a future meetine of the section. In support of thia motion, he
said that there had been for some timo a movement in the direction
of the formation of some association for the purpose aimed at in his
motion. It had been suggested that if a special committee of that
Chamber were formed to discuss the subject it mi^ht appeal to a
wider body, and it would have the advantage of being impersonal
in Its objeots.
sen the whole
Mr, Oareko seconded this. He considered that It w
of the utmost importance, not only wt the section, but to tba
industry in general. A proposal had been mode that there shonld
be an association formed for the purpose of dealing with the qneetioo
of electrical traction, but he considered it quite unnecessary. Ha
thought Uiat there was an unneceesary tendency to form seperata
associations, which involved expense to all who joined, when ba
thought it could be very wall avoided, and, besides, they could
not have the same standing in aseparate association as they would
have under cover of the London Chamber of Commerce, He
therefore received with considerable satisfaction Mr. Morse's
proposal. One important question bethought arising out of the
motion was the appointment of a special committee. The constitn-
tion of that committee, ha would venture to suggest, should not h*
too hastily decided upon. It was desirable that the gentlemeo
who hod contemplated the formation of a separate association
should be consulted, and if they would they should serve on the
special committee. As it was difficult for them to determine at
the meeting who were the most qualified to serve on such a com-
mittee, he would suggest that the mattor might be left to the
chairman and deputy -chairmen to consider, and to report the
names at the next meeting of those whom they would reoommend
for nomination-
Mr. Horae expressed his willingness to add that to his resalDtion.
Mr. Gaisea said that the unfortunate telephone company was
again coming in. He wanted to understand what the motion
really meant. The ([uestion was a very serious one, and he did not
want to suggest whose business it was to find the remedy, but no
doubt most of them were aware that the question had been
thrashed out again and again before Parliamentary C-ommittees,
with the result that protective clauses had been inserted in tb«
interests of the telephone companies in the various electrical Billa.
He wanted to know if it was the intontion tt
field, or whether it was proposed to be b
character,
Mr. Tbompaon supported the remarks made by Mr. Oainea.
He did not think that the section should commit itself to any
decided line of action upon a snap resolution such as had been
propiwed in a very offhand manner. While he thought it desirable
important that they should not take any action without caratol
consideration of the subject. The nuestion was not on the agenda-
paper, and, therefore, they could not hare come prepared to
discuss it. He would propose as an amendment that the matter
bo left over till another meeting, so that they might have time to
consider it, and nominate gentlemen to serve on the oommittee
at the next meeting who would be best able to reprsBent the
important interests involved.
Mr Crompton said he was prepared to take soma blame to
himself for this matter having oeen brought forward. He had
heard that an association was being formed which he thongbt
would he antagonistic to the tolephone interest, and it ocenind
to him that it would be better if the whole question could be
looked into from both sides by a full committee, which should
consist of members of both intorests, and that they should reoUy see
if a jaodw ti'i'erujt could not be orri >ed at by a number of buaiiMN
men instead of fighting their interests through the medinm ci
lawyers and electrical experts. He was Grm^ of opimon that
any great delay in bringing such a committee as tJiat proposed into
exiatonce might be the cause of a great expenditure of money, loss
of time, and irritation between the two branches. He thought
the telephone interest should be very fully represented on sucm a
committee, and by the very best men, just as in Che same way as
the other traction interests siiould be represented by the beet men,
and in such circumstances he did not see what was te hinder them
arriving at a satiafactory aettlement of the question. They knew
what was referred to. ft was the use of the earth. The (question
as going to be fought out on the Continent and in Amenca, and
sbouki
lything to be
gained by delay, and possibly a great deal to lose.
Mr. Oalnsa would nave tiked very much to be able to fall in
heartily with Mr. Crompton's views. The question, as be had said,
as between the telephone companies and the electric traction com-
panies had been fought out in Parliament during the last two or
three years over every electric Bill, and a protective clause hwl
always been inserted for the benefit of the tolephoae oompanlea.
Although he did not for a moment oppose the appointment of a
committee as had been suggested, and while he was willing
personally to aCMnd and to take any part in the proceeding, he
could not go to that committee with any suKgestion that aa far as
the tolephone companies were concerned the subject which had
already been adjudicated upon by Parliament could l>e ref^arded
as an open question. He could not tie his hands behind bis bM^
and say that whatever decision the committee might arrive at, Ihej
(the telephone companies) would be prepared to be bound by. An
action was in [irogress at that moment where even without
statutory protection Che question was being raised under a
law whether the telephone companii
tection. The point was— which of the two branches w
their wires. That was the English of it. Let the committaa ba
appointed, but they must please understand that, so far as the
National Company were concerned, they could not attend the
committee wiui any suggestion that they would depart from the
position which they huT taken up before the Coarta and bafbre
Parliament.
Mr. w. Wertjr Heinimmt thought that the remarks owda by
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
551
Mr. CrompUiD and Mr. Gainea lent importance bo Mr. Tbompeon'e
motion. They should not be in too groat a hurry to add to the
rofponsibilitiee ol the chairman and vice-chairmen in aslcini; them
to nominate a committee to sit on auch a large question. He did
not gather that Mr. Thompson waa in any way oppoeed to the
formation of a committee, bnt thought it shoula be formed after
careful c)elit»eration. He therefore seconded Mr. Thompson's
proposition.
Mr. Mora* thoueht that nan; of the members bad entirely
failed to graap what was proposed. They had overlooked the
important point as to what powers the committee would have.
Mr. Gaines had spoken as if by joining the committee he waa
bound to carry out whatever decision the committee came to. Un-
fortunately, or, rather, fortunately, perhaps, the committee would
have no such power even it they desired it. The committee were
aimply to be asked to consider and report on the matter. Assum-
ing that both sides were represented, and came to a decision as to
what Is to be done, they would have got so far and probably cot
to something practical. He had foreseen for some time that
traction by electricity was almost impossible, owing to the groat
expense, if the telephone company had excessive use of the
earth. There seemed tobe a basis (orsomearrangementbetween the
two parties. They had, it was true, fought every traction Bill in
Parliament, but they knew at what eipenee. They were spending
a fortune on these legal proceedings. The telephone company
said the matter was settled, but they were at present trying
another action -at-law. If the telephonecompanieeas a whole crere
represented, and the other Bide also, did they mean to say that no
middle course could be arranged ! That had been the object of
the proposed association, and it would be the object of the
ColoBOl Jaoluon said that he bad listened with considerable
interest to what hod been eaid by Mr. Crompton, and he con-
curred in thinking it desirable that representatives of the two
interests should meet in friendly conference, but of course, as Mr.
Gaines had observed, the telephone company would not undertake
to Kive up OS a preliminary what had been established as ite legal
rights, and to give up which would be to lay a great industry
prostrate before another.
The CbalrmBii said that no one could dream that anyone agree-
ing to serve on the committee thereby gave up anything in the
shape of legal rights.
Mr. Th«mp»an said he would modify bin proposal, to the effect
that the chairman and deputy -chairmen should be appointed, and
meet to discuss the matter ; but that the nomination oE the other
members of the committee should be left tilt the next meeting.
ISr. Alex. Slemana thought that proposal involved a frightful
waste of time. If the section had confidence in their chairman
and vice-chairmen, they should leave the other members to their
selection.
The first part of Mr, Morse's resolution affirming the desirability
of appointing a committee was put, and eorried unanimously.
Mr. Groinpton moved an amendment to Mr. Thompson's amend-
ment, that the chairman and deputy-chairmen should be appointed
a Special Electrical Traction Committee, with power to nominate
the other members of the committee and to meet forthwith.
On being put to the meeting this amendment was declared
carried, ten voting for Mt. Crompton's amendment and two for Mr.
Thompson's.
The proceedings then terminated.
LEGAL INTELLIGENCE.
CLOUOH AND CO. v. NATIONAL ELECTRIC SUPPLY
COMPANY.
Negotlattn? a Loan.
In the Court of Queen's Bench. London, on Wednesday, Ihecase
of Clougb and Co. >'. National Electric Supply Company came
before Mr. .luxtice Day. sitting with b jury. This was an action
by a firm of accountants carrying on bumnoss at Leeds against the
Electric Supply Company, of Preston, to recover £121 ITs. 2d-
for auditing the accounts of the company for n^otiating a loan
of £3,000 u)Kin debentures of the company, and for attending
meetings of the directors at Sheffield and Bamsley. The defen-
dants paid £70 into Court in satisfEiction of the claim, and
repudiated any agreement to pay the plaintilTs £50 for negotiating
the loan.
Evidence was given by Hr. Ford, one of the plaintiffs, that in
September last year, the company being in immediate want of a
losji, applied to him, and he got a Mr. Beaumont to advance
£3,000 on a debenture of the company, and a guarantee from two
of the directors, the plaintiffs, and Mr. James, the solicitor to the
defendant company. There was no agreement to do this work for
nothing, and plaintiffs' charge of £SI- 17b. was reasonable.
Besides the 6 per cent, on the loon, Mr. Beaumont got a bonus of
£11)0, and plaintiffs had one-eightb of that for guaranteeing the
Evidence supporting the case of the plaintiffs was given by
Mr Jamaa, solicitor to the defendant company.
For the defence, Mr. C. B. Cob^old, mining engineer, and Mr.
D«ui BylaiUU, colliery proprietor, of Barnnley, directors of the
defendant company, said it was pointed out to Clough and Co.
tiiat the company were paying ut the rate of 16 por cent, for this
loan, and that they would not pay more than the £1G0 bonus-
The plaiotilfs were to oc^tlate uiia loan In retnm for out-of-
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
BEUTER'S TELEGBAH COMPANY.
The twenty-eighth ordinary general meeting of the shareholders
in Renter's 'Telegram Company, Limited, was neld on Wednesday
at the Company^ offices, 'M, Old Jewry, E.C., Admiral the Right
Bon. Sir J. C. 1). Hay, Bart , K C.B,, in the chair.
The ChairsiKn, in moving the adoption of the report, said Ihst
the revenue from the telegraphic buainesd showed no retrogression.
On the other band, there hod been a large increase of expenditure
for telegrams and agencies. The increase had occurred chiefly
during the first half of 1861, when events of exceptional importance
were happening abroad. 'The second half of the year had showti
a very material improvement, which bad been maintained up
to the present time. In the opinion of the Directors, the results
for the past year hod been satisfactory. The lease of 25, Old
Jewry, had been acquired for advertisement business, which miRht
be said to be still in its infancy. He hod every confidence that
with a revival of financial and commercial activity, advertising
would prove a lucrative source of income to the Company,
B»ron OeorBe da Renter neconded the motion, which WM
carried unanimoosly-
The retiring director. Baron George de Reuter, and the auditors,
Messrs. Welton, Jones, and Co., were re-elected.
A vote nf thanks to the Chairman for presiding closed the pro-
ceedings.
BUSINESS NOTES.
Wenem Mid BruUbui Telecntph CompMnr.— The receipt*
for the past week, aftor deducting 17 per cent, payable to the
London Platino- Brazilian Company, were £2,449.
BraiUlaB Snltmarlue Telefraph Company, Limited. ^The
Directors of this Company have declared an interim dividend of
3e, iwr share, tax free, for the n'lBrter ended March 31, payable
on the 24th inst.
Santar'a Telagnua CompHty-— The Directors, in their report
for the year ISill, recommend, after transferring £3.000 from the
reserve fund to profit and loss account, a dividend of 6 per cent.,
leaving £96 to be carried to the next acconnt.
City and Sontli LaadoB Ballway. ^The receipts for the week
ending May 29 were £7Kt, against £768 for the same period of
last year, or a decrease of £55. The total receipts to date from
January 1, 1M92, Bhow an increase of £1,266 as Compared with last
WoodhonM »nd Rawaon United. — We are informed by Meesra.
Woodbouse and Rawson United, Limited, thai they have opened
a branch office and show. room at 22, Hue Lotitte, Paris, which
will be the chief depict for their French trade, and all commnnica-
tions regarding same should be addressed to Mr, E, Kenealy, the
manager there, who will give same his prompt and careful atten-
tion. Mr, E, H Cadiot no longer represents the firm in France.
They have alto now o[)ened a fully constituted branch of their
business for the Midlands nt Minories, Birmingham, and have
taken over the show-rooms there recently occupio!! by the Midland
Electricity C-ompany. together with the supply trade of that firm,
wbo will in fnture devote themselves exclusivoly to the engineer-
ing and constructing de|iartmenl. This change has already proved
of considerable advantage to the local contractors and other
buyers of electrical material, as the stock is vory complete,
CMnbrldse Xleetrlo Snpply Company, Limited,— The pro-
spectus of this Company is issued, with a capital of £60,00(1 En
S,00n shares of £10 each. The Directors are Sir B. C, Browne,
D,C,L.. (Jerard Brown Finch. M.A,, David Munsey, Esq., Hon.
C. A, Parsons, J B, Simjieon, Esq., (ioo, Whitmoro, Esq,, with
one Cambridge Director to l>e selected subse([uently. The Company
is formed for supplying the electric light current to Cambridge-
It is estimated that an expenditure of £25,000 will be required
to enable the C^impany to commence opHrationa on a proper
scale. It is exiiected that the light will be turned on at
the b^inning of October next. The scheme is similar to the
Newcastle and District, which has been in active operation a
little more than two years, and has already paid a dividend of
5 per cenL on its ordinary shares, and placed a considerable sum
u} reserve. The maximum price per Board of Trade unit at
Cambridge will be 7d- for private consumers and for street
lighting G^d. This price, however, will rise and fall according to
s sliding scale, allowing ol a maximum cumulative dividend at
the rate of £6 per cent, per annum after making duo allowance for
depreciation and reserve. The terms arranged with the Corpora-
tion include power for the Corporation to purchase at the end of 21
years, 32 years, or any subsequent completed period of 10 years.
It purchased at the end of 10 years, payment is to be made as a
going concern, including goodwilL
OemiMi Elmore Company.— The report of tha IHrectors of
Elmore's German and AuBtro-Hang*rianMet«lCompnny, Limited,
552
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 3, 1892.
for the 15 months ending December 31, 1891, states that the audit
of the accounts has been delayed by the circumstance that the
principal vouchers for expenditure have been in the hands of
Government officials in Germany since October last, and have only
recently been returned by them. At the first general meeting it
was stated that the Directors were then negotiating for. the pur-
chase of lands, buildings, and water power in Germany. This
negotiation was completed on the 4th of May, 1891. The
price at which the lands, buildings, and water power have
been purchased is £22,000. These properties have since been
valued in detail by an official valuer, appointed by the German
Government, at the total sum of 873,2^ marks, equal to £43,661.
In addition to this there had been expended ujK>n machinery at
the same date the sum of £6,610, making the total value, as to the
larger part officially ascertained, £50,271. As it was found that
difficulties existed in obtaining legal possession of real property
in Germany by a foreign company, on October 7, 1891, the
Board, having completed all the necessary documents in
conformity with German law, established a company under
the title of *' Elmore's Metall Actiengesellschaft," with a
nominal capital of 1,000,000 marks, equal to £50,000, and with its
domicile at Cologne. In this company the entire capital is held
by Elmore's German and Austro-Hungarian Metal Company,
limited, and its nominees, and the management is entirely in the
hands of the directors. The official sanction and registration of
the company by the Court of Commerce at Bonn were com-
pleted on the 26th of last month, and at the same time the
official sanction was given for carrying on the business of
the company. The manufacture of tubes and the coating of
calico printers' rollers with copper have been commenced, ana the
first delivery of goods has been made. A proposal has been
formulated and provisionally accepted by the principal holders of
the debenture stock, by which arrangement, when fully carried
out; the £50,000 of 6 per cent, debenture stock will be redeemed,
and will be replaced by fully-paid 7 per cent, preference shares,
such shares to oe entitled to further dividends pro raid after the
ordinary shares shall have received dividends of 10 per cent, per
annum.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1892.
9719.
9741.
9745.
9746.
9747.
9758.
9799.
9850.
9863.
9883.
9891.
9895.
OQHA
IfifUv.
9910.
9932.
May 23.
Xmprovamenti In eleotrle lampholders. Oscar Thomas
Cooper, 179, Milkwood-road, Heme Hill, London.
Morgan and James's Improved ** Klectrio miners' lamp-
lighter." Fred John Morgan and William Rees James, 9,
Railway-terrace, Blaina, Monmouthshire.
Improvements in and appertaining te telephone trans-
mitters or miorophones. Ernest Frank Furtado, 48,
St. Paul's-road, Camden Town, London.
Improvements for eleetro-telephonio reoeivers. Ernest
Frank Furtado, 48, St. Paul'sroad, Camden Town,
London.
Improvements in eleetro-telephonio switohing apparatus.
Ernest Frank Furtado, 48, St. Paul's-road, Camden Town,
London.
Improvements relating to the regulating of eleotrlo are
lamps. Ernest Eugene Beau valet and L6on Charles
Beauvalet, 18, Buckingham-street, Strand, London.
Mat 24.
Improvements in apparatus and means for the eleotro-
lysls of alkaline ehlorides which may bo in ooujnno-
tion with earthy ehlorides. Desmond Gerald FitzGerald,
46, Loughborough-road, Brixton, London.
Improvements in Dans operated by eleotriolty. James
Henry Pickup, James Bryom, and James Ashworth, 47,
Lincoln's-inn-fields, London.
Improvements in eleotrio signalling apparatus. Henry
Harris Lake, 45, Southampton- buildings, Chancery-lane,
London. (The Electric Secret Service Company, United
States.) (Complete specification. )
Improvements in commutator brushes for dynamos or
eleotrio motors. William Phillips Thompson, 6, Lord-
street, Liverpool. (Charles L. Coffin, United States.)
(Complete specification. )
Improvements in eleetrolytlo eleetro-meters. Alexander
George McKenna and Henry Townsend Weed, 35, South-
ampton-buildings, Chancery-lane, London. (Complete
specification. )
An Improved safety attaohment for overhead eleotrio
wires. William Wilson Horn, 151, Strand, London.
(Charles D. Brown, United States.)
May 26.
Improvemsnts in eleotrioal switches, oeiling roses, ftises,
and the like, and in the method of attaohlng the
terminals thereof to the oonduotors. Albert Vyvyan
Pittar and Edgar William Beckingsale, 6, St. S within 's-
lane, London.
Improvements in the method of and apparatus for
eleotrif^fing air, gas, or vapour for various useful
purposes. Charles Percy Shrewsbury and John Laskey
Dobell, 57i Chancery-lane, London.
Iflspr«vsmants la eloeftiie meters. Paris Eugene Singer,
6, Viotoria-rosd, Kensington, London.
9941.
9947.
Improvements in eleetrieal oontaets. Charles Henry
Smeeton and Herbert Page, 63, Queen Victoria-street,
London.
9959.
9983.
Apparatus for use in insulating Joints in tiisw1at<»d
eleotrio oonduotlng wires. Reginald Haddan, 18, Buck-
ingham-street, Strand, London. (Alexandre Grammon^
France.) (Complete specification.)
Improvements in the eonstruotion of apparatus fiv
eleotrto search - lights and slgnalltng purposea.
Theophilus Coad, 1, Quality court, Chanoery-lane, London.
Improvements in the method of and apparatus fiv pro*
polling vehieles upon railways by eleotrieity. William
Phillips Thompson, 6, Lord-street, Liverpool. (Elias Elkan
Ries and Albert Henry Henderson, United States.)
(Complete sfiecification.)
10014. Improvements in inoandesoent eleotrio lamps. Johann
Melhardt, 45, Southampton-buildings, Chanoery-lane,
London.
10022. Improvements in eleetro-telephonio apparatus. Charles
James Grist, 61, Chancery -lane, London.
May 27.
10059. ImprovemenU oonneoted with tubular elaetrie
duotors. Ernest Payne, 39, Victoria-street, Westminster,
London.
10060. Kleotrio meter for reoording varying quantities of
eleotrioal ourrents passing in equal time periods ever
or along a eonduoting wire. George William Hart, 3,
Huckingham-road, Harlesden, London.
101.31. Improvements in telephones. Siemens Bros, and Ca,
Limited, and Frank Jacob, 28, Southampton-buildings,
Chancery-lane, London.
101 33 ImprovemenU in insulating attaohments for the support
of overhead eleotrioal oonduotors. Mathews Nigueira
Brandao, 28, Southampton-buildings, Chancery-lane,
London. (Complete specification.)
10139. An improvement in telephonio appUanoes. Kuddf
Lowenstein, 45, Holborn - viaduct, London. (Charles
Ernest Weiss, Germany.)
10143. Improvements in dynamo-eleotrio maehinesand motors.
Frederick Henry Varley and Amelia Varley, 82, Newington-
green-road, Islington, London.
10145. An improved dilferential are lamp. Richard Holsten,
1, Queen Victoria-street, London. ((Complete specification.)
May 28.
10189. Improvements in eleotrio motors and dynamos. Henry
Chitty, 13, Brackley- terrace, Chiswick, London.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1890.
911.* Kleotrieal oonduotors. Pitt. (Atherton.) (Amended.)
1891.
7954. Kleotrio oall apparatus. Poore.
8225. Controlling signals by eleotrieity. Aspinall and Hoy.
10843. Regulating eleotrio ourrents. Ferrand.
11294. Telephonio ezohange signalling. Bennett.
11313. Utilising eleotrioal energy, eto., in rook boring. Bolton.
11560. Galvanio batteries. Hardingham and other?.
12726. Eleotrioal armatures. Thom()6on. (W. Lahmeyer and Co.)
17849. Kleotrio light fittings. Lea and others.
18097. Oalvanio batteries. Souther.
22370. Sea telephones. Huber and others.
1892.
3030. Lighting railway vehioles by eleotrioity. Lake. (Con-
solidated Car- Heating Company. )
4578. Kleotrio lamps. Carey.
4691. Secondary eleotrio olooks. Schweizer.
6119. Kleotrio railways. Cat tori.
6569. Telephone cables. Kinsbury. (Western Electric Company.)
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Brush Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, Gutta Peroha k Telegraph Co.
House-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Eleotrio Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Electric Construction
Westminster Electric
Liyerpool Electric Supply
{
Priot
Paid.
WaduM
d«y
_
H
2i
10
5
It
—
71
5
i
8i
41
—
8
6
*l
10
«1
—
».".
6
(•i
8
»»
THE ELECrRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 10, 1892.
553
NOTES.
Salisbury. — Mr. Eyiion has agreed to test the Salisbury
fire station electrical apparatus for £5 a year.
Otley. — ^At the Otley Local Board it was decided that
the residences of the firemen should be connected with the
central station by electric bells.
Bury. — ^At the monthly meeting of the Bury Town
Council, the site at Whitehead Bridge for the purposes of
an electric lighting station was approved.
Walborouflrh (Devon). — The Walborough Local
Board are dissatisfied with their gas, and are intending
making enquiries as to the establishment of their own gas
works or other means of lighting.
Personal — Mr. W. B. Esson, who has been associated
with Messrs. Paterson and Cooper as their engineer and
manager for nearly nine years, has sent in his resignation,
and leaves the firm on the 30th of the present month.
Cleethorpes is a pretty little seaport town known as
Sheffield-on-Sea. The Local Board find the town badly
lighted as compared with other towns, and Mr. Hill has
determined to bring up the question till something is done.
Telephones at Dundee. — The Works Committee of
the Dundee Poorhouse have accepted the tender of Messrs.
Westwood and Son, of Dundee, for supply and fitting of
telephones in connection with the new hospital, the amount
being £110.
Wrexham. — ^At the last meeting of the Wrexham Town
Council the town clerk read a letter from the Board of
IVade, intimating that they had extended the time for the
Wrexham Electric Lighting Company to make its deposit
until 14th August
Kidderminster. — Proposals have been received by the
Town Council from three firms for the transfer of the
Kidderminster electric light order, and the subject has been
referred to a committee to examine the several proposals
and to report upon them.
Hew Telephone Company. — The Bill promoted by
the New Telephone Company, providing for the dissolution
of the existing company and for its re-incorporation, with
enlarged powers, has been definitely withdrawn by the
promoters for the present session.
Lytham Pier. — After having about £10,000 spent on
it, Lytham Pier was reopened last week. No ceremony
took place, it having been decided to have a demonstration
at the end of the month. The installation of the electric
light took place with great success.
Sutton Ckildfield. — Mr. Mayes has informed the Sutton
Coldfield Town Council that the Sutton Gkts Company
would relinquish and give up their business on the 29th
September next. Consequently it would be necessary at
once to make arrangements for the future lighting of the
borough.
Conversaiione.— Invitations have been issued to the
members and associates of the Institution of Electrical Engi-
neers by the President and Mrs. Ayrton for a conversazione
in the galleries of the Koyal Institute of Painters in Water
Colours, 191, Piccadilly, on Friday, July 1, from ninje till
twelve o'clock.
Electric Liffhtinflr Ladders. — For the public electric
lamps at Bray, in Ireland, Messrs. Heathman and Co., of
Endell-street, London, are constnicting one of their plat-
form extension ladders to telescope from 18ft. to 33ft.,
while they have another of these useful adjuncts in hand
for the installation at Victoria railway station.
Shafteslmry.— At the Shaftesbury Town Council last
week, Mr. Whitehead stated that the gas was so bad in
that town that a number of people had now taken to
burning oil. The borough surveyor is to go into the
matter, and for one thing purchase a testing apparatus.
Books Received. — " A Dictionary of Electrical Words,
Terms, and Phrases," by Prof. E. J. Houston; second
edition, rewritten and greatly enlarged ; published by The
W. J. Johnston Company, New York. " Telephones :
their Construction and Fitting," by F. C. Allsop ; second
edition, revised and enlarged ; E. and F. N. Spon.
Lsmton. — The surveyor's report to the Ljmton Local
Board says that the electric lighting has been satisfactory
during the past season; according to the contract the
lighting ceases from May 15 to July 15. One member
objected that the surveyor's opinion was more favourable
than his own — let us hope, however, he saw through partial
eyes. The bill for lighting, £21. 5s., was referred to the
Lighting Committee.
Bucharest. — The Secretary of State for Foreign
Affairs has received information from Bucharest that
tenders will shortly be invited for various public works,
amongst which are lighting by electricity and the estab-
lishment of an electric tramway. Further details in posses-
sion of the Grovernment can be obtained on personal
application at the Commercial Department of the Foreign
Office, between 11 and 5 daily.
Bacup. — At the close of the Town Council meeting last
week, a meeting of the Special Electric Lighting Sub-Com-
mittee was held, when the report of Mr. J. N. Shoolbred,
who was engaged to advise the Corporation on the subject of
electric lighting, was submitted and considered. It was
resolved that the members of the sub-committee, along
with the town clerk and borough surveyor, should visit
Newcastle, to view an electric installation in operation
there.
Electric Tramwasrs at Chemnits. — It is reported
that the Town Council of Chemnitz has authorised the
Allgemeine Company, of Berlin, to lay out a new tramway
line, and arrange that the existing one shall be worked by
electricity. The system of the company as established in
the neighbouring towns of Halle and Gera is said to have
proved successful, and it is anticipated that Chemnitz
will derive considerable benefit from the new method of
communication.
The Potteries. — Clough Hall, a well known pleasure
resort in the Potteries, has received many recent improve-
ments for the summer season. The grounds are to be
illuminated by 500 electric lamps besides search-lights, and
two screw steamers have been placed on the pool. If they
had been electric no doubt they would be even better
patronised. A grand reproduction of " Venice " is to be
carried out. Mr. Owens is the electrical engineer who has
superintendence of the installation.
Western Telephones. — Telephonic communication
between Bude, Hartland, Clovelly, Morte, and Ilfracombe
will be complete in a few days. Connection is being made
to the coastguard station. Bude will be the terminal of
this district, but it is understood that Boscasde, and places
to the westward, will be similarly dealt with. It is exceed-
ingly important, in view of shipping casualties along this
coast, that Bude, Boscastle, and Padstow should be in tele-
phonic connection with each other.
Lancashire. — The question of lighting is a pressing
one in various Lancashire towns. Messrs. Hamer, Turner,
and Aikini-on have been appointed a sub-committee at
Dalton (Lanes.) to consider the public lighting. At Askam
S54
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 10, 1892.
a committoe bu been appointed to obtain better lighting.
Barrov and Ulventoa have been nibbling at the qneetion of
electric light for aome time ; and really at Barrow, now one
of the most important of the smaller towna in the North,
some definite action should be taken.
Chloago. — The London Weatinghouse Electric Company,
writing to US on Tuesday, inform lu Lhat they had that
day received a communication from the vice-president and
general manager of the Weetinghouse Electric and Manu-
facturing Company, of Pittsburg, U.S., to the effect that
that company has been awarded the contract for the incan-
descent lighting of the World's Columbian Exhibition, to
be held at Chicago in 1893, after severe competition. They
understand the contract coven apparatus to the extent of
about 90,000 16-c.p. lamps capacity.
Electricity for Caterpillars. — Carl Hering, accord-
ing to the New York Commercial, has constrncted a device
for preventing caterpillars crawling up trees: "Alternate
wires of copper and zinc are run around the trunk of the
tree, at a distance of about ^in. apart. The casual cater-
pillar begins to mount the trunk of the tree and unlimbers
himself with the confidence and vigour born of an impend-
ing feast Presently be reaches the copper wire, pokes his
nose over it, and lets another kink out of his backbone.
Half an inch further up hie front feet strike the zinc, the
circuit is completed, and the unfortunate larva is a martyr
to science."
Orlgliial Horse Eidilbit. — An exhibit of striking
historical interest will be shown at Chicago by the Balti-
more and Ohio Railway in the shape of the original
apparatus employed in laying Morse's first telegraph wire.
It is not generally known, perhaps, that Morse's first line
was laid underground, from Washington to Baltimore. A
heavy plough was procured with a reel rigged up behind,
and from this the lead-covered wire unwound itself, and
was covered up in the furrow. The leakage to earth, how-
ever, proved too great, and overhead wires afterwards came
into use. The skins of 16 oxen stuffed will represent the
original team, and wax figures of Prof. Morse and his asso-
ciates will complete this interesting scene.
Derlij'. — Wo have already mentioned that the Derby
Electric Lighting Committee had been definitely advised
by Messrs. Bramwall and Harris on the relative advantages
for electricity-generating purposes of several sites, including
that of the destructor. The electrical engineers advised
the adoption of the site in Silk Mill-lane, and the committee
acquiescing requested that these lands be placed at their
disposal. The Mayor, at the meeting last week, explained
that the site selected was considered by experts to be the
best in the town, and it would afford accommodation for
plant sufficient to illuminate the whole town with electricity
ahonld it be considered desirable. Mr. Alderman Hobaon
seconded the proposition, which was carried.
CUswick.— At the meeting of the Chiswick Local
Board last week the report of the special committee was
considered upon the tenders for the supply of electric light
in Chiswick. The clerk said that the committee had gone
very carefully through Messrs. Bourn and Grant's specifica-
tions, and had made certain alterations therein. They also
recommended that the firm provide a new schedule of the
engineering works, with particulars of the lighting, and that
it be then submitted to an expert to advise the Board upon.
In a brief discussion that ensued, it was thought that the
fee asked by an expert — the amount of which, however,
was not mentioned — was too high, and at the clerk's sug-
gestion the matter was referred back to the committee.
Kinttwrley Exhibition.— The South African and
{ntcmational Exhibition, which is to bo opened at
Kimberley in September, is to be lighted entirely with the
electric light. For the extensive grounds of the exhibition
and interior of some of the principal buildings arc lamps
are to be used. These will be worked from three Man-
cheater dynamos, each for an output of 900 volts 10 amperes.
The total number of arc lamps to be used is 37, each of
2,000 c.p. The interior of the smaller buildings will be
lighted with incandescent lamps of 16 c.p., worked from
three Manchester dynamos, each for an output of 110 volts
1 20 amperes. The whole of the plant, both for the arc
lighting and incandescent lighting, is being supplied by
Messrs. Mather and Piatt, Limited, of the Salford Iron
Works, Manchester,
Llandndno. — The well-known eetablishment of Craig-
side, Llandudno, has recently been fitted with a very
complete electric plant by Mr. Wm. Kingsland, A.I.E.E.
The installation comprises both arc and incandescent light-
ing, and also electromotors for working thelaundry and hoist.
A set of storage batteries of the E.P.S. K 19 type supply
an adequate reserve, and are also used for Uie motors
during the day and for a supply during the night, so that
the light is available in the bedrooms at any time. The
public reception-rooms have been brilliantly and tastefully
lighted, the enterprising management having spared no
trouble or expense in having the work done in a thorough
and complete manner. Mr. Kingeland has personally
supervised the work throughout, and the lighting has been
most successful from the commencement.
Dandee. — A meeting of a committee of the Dundee
Cras Commission was held last week, when the members
were engaged for fully an hour in opening the contracts
for the new electric lighting station and apparatus. Ex-
Provost Brownlee, convener, presided, and Mesera.Urquhart
and Small, the Board's engineers, were present A lai^
number of offers were submitted from all parts of the
United Kingdom. The contracts, however, were princi-
pally from English firms, although several were sent in
from Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Dundee. Ultimately it
was remitted to the convener and the electrical engineers
to tabulate the offers, so that the Commission would be
able to arrive at a decision at their meeting on the 5th.
We understand that at this meeting the tenders were
accepted, the amounts (which were the lowest) amounting
to £20,U2.
Indian Oaniases. — Some luxurious railway carriages
have recently been built by the Oldbury Railway Carriage
and Waggon Company for an Indian prince, to the order
of Messrs. Jos. Showell and Co., Indian merchants, of Bir-
mingham. The cars are double-roofed to protect from
the hot weather, moat handsomely decorated in dark blue
russia leather and old-gold, with plush curtains, and
oxidised silver fittings. They are lighted throughout by
electric light, each carriage containing 13 lamps of 16 c.p.
The current is obtained from specially-constructed accumu-
lator cells, which will supply light for about 10 hours with
one charge. The electric lighting apparatus was supplied
and fitted by Messrs. Bayley Bros., of Walsall, under the
superintendence of Mr. Spurrier. The general impression
in the carriages is of Oriental richness of effect, but carried
out with real artistic feeling and without over-elaborate
decoration.
Inventions. — " To manage a meritorious invention to
a financial success requires as mnch skiU as to produce it,
and many inventors are very poor judges of honeat buai-
neas managers. If an inventor has a good invention of
merit and desires means, the safe way is to go to some
acquaiutance of means, and he will have no trouble in
securing enough to develop it and place it in the market."
So says O. E. Emerson in the SeietUific American, (t i$
THE ELECTRiCAL BKGlNfiER, JUNE 10, 1892.
866
probably the best advice that can bo given. If a man will
invent he will, and there's an end on't But we noticed
something in a recent utterance of Edison's that should
make a good many inventors pause. If anyone has made
money by inventions, one would think it might well be
Edison. Yet he states he never really made so much as a
penny out of his inventions : he always lost as much on
useless ones as he made on the saleable inventions. All the
money he has made was obtained, he said, not by sale of
inventions, but by manufacturing.
Electric Sailing Oiflr.—- At the new electric launch
works. Eel Pie Island, Twickenham, an electrically-propelled
gig is being laid down. The boat is to be built in bright
cedar, and is designed to give a mean speed of 6^ to
seven miles an hour with one charge of about five to seven
hours' duration. She will be fitted with awning, cushions,
electric light, electric bell, gunmetal rowlocks, and sculls
varnished and decorated — fitted above the gunwale (which
forms a rail fore and aft), with a balance lug sail forward and
a jib-headed mizen aft. The accumulators will be sealed and
placed below the water-line, forming ballast and giving
great stability for sailing. This boat, therefore, can be
rowed, sailed, or electrically propelled at pleasure. She is
being built to the order of F. W. Hagelmann, Esq., of
Granby-street, N.W., and will conveniently accommodate
six passengers. This class of electric launch are produced
for under a hundred pounds, and will be very useful little
boats for the Upper Thames and canals.
Waterloo Electric Railway. — The Select Com-
mittee of the House of Commons, presided over by Sir John
Kennaway, resumed last Friday the consideration of the Bill
under which powers are sought by an independent
company to construct an electric underground railway
from Baker-street to Waterloo. Mr. Pember, Q.C.,
having replied for the promoters upon the whole case,
the committee proceeded to consider their decision.
They found that the preamble had been proved, but
they were prepared to give a protection clause to the
Victoria Hotel in Northumberland-avenue similar to the
clause contained in the Central London Bail way Act of
last year. If the South-Eastern Bail way Company desired
to say anything with reference to the passage from
Northumberland-avenue to Craven-street, the committee
would on that point reserve their decision. New clauses
were inserted for the protection of the Victoria Hotel and
the Conservators of the Thames. The Bill was ordered to
be reported.
Electric Uffhtinflr in Ireland. — Dublin and Bray
are both getting behind time, writes an Irish correspondent,
in the matter ef electric lighting. In Dublin, Messrs.
Hammond and Co. promised to have the principal streets
lighted on May 1 ; while in Bray, Messrs. (Gordon were
bound under a penal clause of agreement to have the
Esplanade lighted on June 1 inst. In both cases, the
pillars and most of the lamps are already in position ; and
in Bray the cable laying is nearly complete, while in
Dublin this work is only just commenced. Referring to
the pillars, says our correspondent, those erected in Dublin
appear to give general satisfaction, being of neat appear-
ance and ornamental design ; while the pillars erected at
Bray are not received with the same satisfaction, being
simply plain metal columns, 20ft. high, with only two
collars or rings to break the level surface from base to top.
The "Brighton of Ireland" will probably eventually require
something more ornamental for its share in supporting
the light of the future.
Cable ▼. Electric Cars. — ^An article is published in
the Tramway and Railway World for May descriptive of
the wire-rope works of Messrs. Oeorge Graddock and Com-
pany, of Wakefield. The article deals with the manufac-
ture of tramway cables, more particularly with reference
to the approaching opening of the cable tramway at
Brixton. We have recently reported the complete turn
out of the cable tramway systems at St. Louis and at
Grand Bapids, in the United States. It is almost inevitable,
we think, that instead of the cable tramMray extending in
proportion to the extension of other traffic facilities, that it
should fall off by reason of the continued progress of electric
traction, and probably the best service that electrical engineers
could do to themselves and the cable tram manufacturers
would be to do all they could to ally themselves with such
firms, in which case the transformation may well go on
without the excessive irritation that often occurs with the
introduction of new methods in advancing industries.
We have already seen good results occur with similar
rapprochements between electrical engineers and steam tram
engine builders.
ConntinflT Coins by Electricity. — In the Mint, it is
stated in the Master's report just published, a new counting
machine for telling bronze coin has been erected in the
bronze store. It was designed by Messrs. Maudslay, Sons,
and Field, Limited. The machine has four distinct sets of
counting apparatus, each of which can be worked inde-
pendently of the others, and when all four are in full work
upwards of 3,000 pence can be counted per minute. The
coin to be told is raised to the level of two tables placed on
a platform by a lift worked by an electric motor, which
also drives the counting machines. A pair of these machines
is fed from each of the two tables, the coins passing from
the table down an inclined iron plate forming a flat hopper,
from which they issue in single file through a channel of
appropriate width. They are then gripped by a pair of
indiarubber driving wheels, which force the coins past the
rim of a thin disc provided with recesses in its circumfer-
ence to fit the circular edges of the coins. As the disc is
thus made to revolve, the coins are pushed forward, falling
into a bag placed to receive them, and continue to advance
until the counting wheel is automatically stopped and the
bag containing the coins is removed.
Electrical Lecture at Lahore. — The railway and
electricity — these are the two forces that draw men
together in all quarters of the world. We hardly know
how it is that the mere fact that a lecture on '' Becent
Electrical Developments," given by Mr. E. K Oliver,
superintending engineer in the Grovernment College,
Lahore, should lead to inward reflections on the progress
of civilisation — ^yet so it is. Lahore seems so far away
to most of us, that the mere mention of a lecture in so
remote though important town of our colonies, calls
up a desire for greater and greater extensions of our
colonial facilities — and what can do this better
than the " recent developments in electricity " ! Mr.
Oliver had present Colonel Le Messurier, secretary to
Grovernment, Mr. Sime, director of Public Instruction at
Lahore and other educational officers, and a considerable
audience of students at the colleges. The desire of more
information in India on electrical engineering problems
was shown by the keen interest taken by the large
audience in Mr. Oliver's lecture ; and theory should be
followed by practice, for many of the young men then
present will have important positions under their control.
Electric Organ. — The adaptation of electricity to
organ -blowing is a speciality of Mr. Hope-Jones, of Leeds,
and the employment of his inventions seem to be extending.
The latest addition to the list of electrically-worked organs
is that of All Saints' Church, Bristol. In this case the
organ stands in a chamber in the base of the tower, and a
solid stone wall of nearly 3ft in thickness separates the
556
TflE ELECTRICAL ENGINBEtl, JUNE 10, 1892.
ingtrument from the chanceL On account of the impos-
sibility of hearing the organ, the choristers have hitherto
not been able to sit in the chancel ; but now portable keys
are to be provided, and a small additional choir organ
bracketed out from the wall above the choir stalls. The
organist will be able to sit himself below the entrance of
the chancel in such a position that ho can hear each part of
his instrument equally, and can see and accompany the
choristers and the congregation to perfection. He will play
upon the small detached organ in the chancel when wishing
to support the choir, and upon the main organ under the
tower when wishing to encourage congregational singing,
or upon the two instruments combined as may be desired.
The portable console or key desk measures only 3ft. Gin.
by 3ft. 9in. in plan by 3ft. 8in. high, and is connected with
the two organs by means of a single flexible cable of wires
no thicker than a finger.
ReadinflT. — At the monthly meeting of the Heading
Town Council the following minutes with regard to electric
lighting were read : " The town clerk reported that the
draft of the proposed license to the Beading Electric
Supply Company, Limited, under the Electric Lighting
Acts, 1882 and 1888, had now been finally settled by him
with Mr. H. F. Rite in the form in which the company
would make application to the Board of Trade for
the license, and that the special meeting of the Council,
as the local authority under the Acts, for psissing
a resolution giving their required consent to the
company's application to the Board of Trade for
the license would be held. The town clerk submitted
a print of the draft of the proposed license by the
Board of Trade as settled, and stated that if, when the
matter was before the Board of Trade, that Board proposed
to make any important alterations in the draft before
granting the license, be would take further instructions
from the committee." The town clerk then submitted the
draft license as settled. Alderman Monck moved that the
consent of the Council be given to the license to the
Beading Electric Lighting Company, and that they be
empowered to supply electricity for public and private
lighting purposes. Alderman Hill seconded the motion,
which was carried.
Eleotroteohnios. — The receipt of the 1892 edition of
a little book entitled " Bibliotheca Electrotechnica," com-
piled and published by Fritz von Szczepanski (London :
Sampson Low), makes us more and more grateful that
English is fast becoming the universal tongue — at any rate for
scientific books — and wo must continue to be grateful to pub-
lishers who help forward the *' consummation devoutly to be
wished." It is only this morning we received a long letter,
couched in elegant English, from a Russian in Philippopolis,
and here is another Russian gentleman, Mr. Szczepanski —
perhaps he will excuse us if we say we wish we could
pronounce his name — who is rendering great service
in spreading the knowledge of English and American text-
books throughout the Continent. His little pamphlet
contains a classified and descriptive guide to electrical books
and papers published in English, French, and Oerman — in
the first place journals devoted to the science, some of
which we ourselves have not heard of, for there
are * already over 70 of them in the various tongues.
Then comes books on theory of electricity, on industrial
electricity, history, bibliography, electricity in exhibitions,
batteries, lighting, mining, lightning conductors, railways,
military electricity, the law on electricity, electro-chemistry,
electromotors, deposition, bells, domestic electricity, instru-
ments, transmission, mains, dynamos, measurements,
potential, static electricity, formulae, telegraphy, tele-
nhones, transformers, and electric clocks. The "Bibliotheca"
is published in St. Petersburg, Leipzig, Paris, London, and
New York, and anyone who wants electrical books, or has
any which he wishes included, would do well to glance at
this polyglot classified guide.
WhitehaTen. — A deputation from the Joint Street
and Harbour Committees of the Whitehaven Town and
Harbour Trust visited Preston last week to view the works
and to obtain information as to the electric lighting of that
town. The Whitehaven surveyor has prepared an exhaus-
tive report on the subject, in which he states that the
power of gas to be replaced by electricity is equal to
3,837 candles, which now costs on an average £1,000 per
annum. This illumination he proposes to replace by
electric light of a total of 15,000 c.p., about, or nearly, four
times the present quantity of light. This would require
about 21 e.h.p., or about 25 i.h.p. in the engines.
This power would be all required for public lighting, and
he proposes to increase the amount by about 50 per
cent, and provide two engines and dynamos equivalent to
about 38 h.p. each, thus making provision for supplying a
limited number of private consumers, and in case the
demand were found to increase, to lay down further plant
in proportion to such demand. The surveyor proposes to
light a central area, including the harbour. This area, he
says, could be most economically worked on the low-
pressure direct-current system, thus dispensing with expen-
sively insulated conductors, wasteful transformers, and general
danger to consumers, consequent on the use of electrical
currents of a high voltage. The estimate of the total capital
outlay necessary for the proposed alteration in the method
of lighting the town is about £5,000, with an estimated
annual working expenditure of £1,245. 13s. 9d. The esti-
mated annual revenue is about £1,675, which is equal to a
profit of £430. The surveyor concludes his report by
saying that it will thus be seen that with a moderate
demand by private consumers the proposed installation will
at least be self supporting, and it is obvious that to the
extent to which the light is adopted by the general public
will the revenue be increased, and the working and fixed
expenditure thereby reduced in proportion to the total
revenue.
Electric Tram Chronograph. — We alluded at the
time of the Royal Society conversastione to an electric
chronograph, the invention of the Bev. Frederick J. Smith,
M.A., of Oxford. The following account gives further
details of the instrument, which is really one of the most
interesting of the delicate applications of electricity : The
instrument was devised to measure exceedingly small periods
of time. It has been used in physiological research and
work on the velocity of shot, and the determination of the
velocity of sound in many gases and solids, at different
temperatures. By means of the instrument periods of
time varying from the ^ to the ^nmr^ ^^ ^ second can
be measured. The instrument consists of a metal girder
furnished with a T-shaped end; it carries two steel
rails, and the whole is supported on the V-groove, hole,
and plane system. A carriage, to which is fixed plate glass
slightly smoked, runs on the rails on three gunmetal
wheels — the carriage is driven forward either by a weight
or by a coiled spring. In the earliest instrument of this
class at the Science and Art Department, South Kensing-
ton, the carriage is driven by means of a weight, and is
brought to rest by means of a leather-band brake. In front
of the moving surface a heavy metal pillar stands, carried
on the V-groove, hole, and plane system ; it supports any
suitable number of electromagnetic styli. The pillar has two
motions — one of rotation and one of vertical translation.
By the former the styli are turned out of the way of the
surface when it is brought back for a new observation, by
tan HJLliOTlllOAL ENGINEER, JUNE 10, 1892.
55:7
the latter the styli are at once brought into position for a
fresh observation ; thus a large number of observations can *
be made on the same surface. When the rails are adjusted
with a certain amount of inclination, the traces of the fork
are found to be practically uniform throughout their whole
length. The time traces are measured and reduced by
means of a micrometer microscope moving on a sliding frame;
all observations are made from the bright line always to
be found in the middle of the rougher marking of the stylus.
When iridium-pointed styli are used the line is exceedingly
fine and bright Two kinds of electromagnetic styli are used.
In the one marking is effected by the opening of the circuit,
in the other by the closing of the circuit, the latter condi-
tion being required in certain experiments in physiology.
The instrument is also furnished with continuous-contact
breakers, whereby, when a photographic plate is fixed in
the carriage, spark photographs of moving objects may be
obtained in the manner suggested by Prof. Boys. This
application of the instrument has been shown by the photo-
graphs of falling drops of liquid in air, and insects have
also been photographed in this way. Mr. Smith's chrono-
graph ought to render good service both in art and in scien-
tific investigations in various fields.
Tramway Motors. — The exact necessary horse-power
of the electric motors for tramways is a subject around
which has always raged a considerable amount of discus-
sion, and the matter was touched upon by various speakers
before the Institution on the occasion of Mr. Keckenzaun's
paper. Some little time before that an article had
appeared in Industries seemingly maintaining that the
power of the motors now used was excessive, and suggest-
ing that with proper arrangement a 2-h.p. motor should be
sufficient. We have had by us for some time an interesting
letter dealing with this moot point, from Mr. W.
Gibson Carey, the enterprising engineer who was in
charge of the actual construction work for Mr. Graff
Baker at the Boundhay Tramway. He says: "I have
read the article to which you refer, and would say that the
usual practice of suspending tramway motors with a bearing
at one end on the axle and a flexible suspension from the
truck at the other end, has proved itself entirely satisfac-
tory. I do not consider that Mr. Field's plan of using a
connecting rod with reciprocating motion any improvement
whatever, and I must say that my experience has certainly
not shown me the necessity to which the article in question
refers, of mounting the motors on the car side of the springs.
As to the main point in the article — viz., the use of a 2-h.p.
motor instead of the much larger power usually employed —
I would call your attention to the following figures : An
ordinary 16ft. car, when loaded, weighs, exclusive of
motors, about 10,0001b. At the rate of eight miles an
hour it moves horizontally 704ft. per minute. Assuming
that a pull of 251b. per ton of weight is necessary to
overcome friction (with a grooved rail it will probably
be somewhat greater) the horse-power required to drive
on a level road will be ^'^ "^^JL^^^ = 24 h.p. If the
33,000 ^
same speed is to be maintained on a 5 per cent, gradient, the
car must be lifted 35 '2ft. in each minute, which will require, in
addition, ^Q>QQQ ^ 35-2 ^ ^^.^^ . j^ ^.^j ^^^^^^^^^^ ^
33,000 *^
necessary to exert 13 h.p. to drive such a car at the rate of
eight miles an hour, on a gradient of 1 in 20 — a feat
which is accomplished daily on scores of roads in the States.
But when, in addition to the above weight, that of the
motors is considered, the power required will be even
greater. These figures are only for the power required to
maintain the speed when once it has been attained. In
starting, while the armature speed is yet very low, an
enormous torque is required, and the motors must be
designed to stand a current far in excess of that which will
be taken when running at normal speeds. If Mr. Field's
2-h.p. motor will stand such overloads as this, it must be
an unusually tough one. I trust these figures will set all
doubts at rest.''
Electric Ligrht Engines. — The electric light industry
has given rise to a special class of engine, in the highest
degree economical, built for long runs, constant speed, and
a very high degree of delicacy in regulation. The demand
has caused a number of high-class firms to bend their atten-
tion to the question, and although up to the present the
great Lancashire firms who build with such success the
large slow-speed engines for cotton machinery have left
the electric light industry largely to itself, yet another
class of engineers, those who have gained special experience
in steam launch and torpedo boat work, finding the
problems usually put in installation work somewhat similar
to those they are used to, have taken up with eagerness
the new branch of engine building. Among these the firm
of Messrs. G. £. Belliss and Co., of Ledsam-street, Birmingham,
have taken an advanced place. Messrs. Belliss have not
only carried out important contracts for the British, Indian,
and Colonial Governments, but for the naval departments
of the French, German, Italian, Russian, United States,
and other Governments, and the experience so gained in
ship, launch, air-compressing, and electric light work has
enabled them to turn out high-class quick-running machinery
developing very high power within exceptional limit of
space. The attention they have given to electric light
engines has, it would seem, resulted in the necessity for
extension of their manufacturing plant in this direction,
and all engines are tested on an actual installation with
steam, under working conditions. Messrs. Belliss have
recently, for the first time, gathered together the
descriptions and illustrations of their machinery into
a catalogue, which we should advise those interested
in high-speed engines to obtain. The catalogue com-
mences with a photograph of their exhibit at the Royal
Naval Exhibition of dynamo engines constructed for H.M.
ships " Crescent " and ** Royal Oak," each of 34,000 watt
capacity. Then we have an illustration of their simple
open-type direct-acting engine, as supplied for driving
dynamos on board H.M. ships ** Alexandra " " Colossus,'
and the *' Canning '' and ** Clive " of the Indian marine. A
special feature is made of their central-valve dynamo
engines, which are made both compound and double
cylinder, and have replaced single-acting closed-in engines
on board ship with much success. H.M. ships " Crescent,"
*' Iris," ** Leander," and others have been so fitted.
This class of engine is termed the '* Crescent " type.
The central-valve vertical engine has been speciidly
designed as an open-type high-speed engine for driving
dynamos direct, and has been extensively adopted.
The bearings are very large, the working parts a
minimum, the arrangement of the slide valves requiring
one eccentric and rod only. The cranks are set opposite
each other, and steam being admitted simultaneously to the
top of one cylinder and the bottom of the other the
reciprocating parts are balanced, and there is no undue
vibration at high speed. The engine is fitted with centri-
fugal or expansion governor as desired ; in either case a
variation of speed not exceeding 3 per cent, between full
and no load is guaranteed. An enclosed double-acting
highspeed engine is shown for dirty and dusty places, and,
besides this, a number of wall engines, pumping and air
compressing engines, triple marine expansion engine, and
so forth, with boilers, make a most interesting catalogue to
the engineering profession.
558
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 10, 1892.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
AmongBt the prinmry batteries exhibited at the Gryetal
Palace, considerable praise should be given to those of the
Maqoay Syndioate, Limited, of 9, Frith-street, Soho,
Tho have a stall full of applications of the Maquay battery
[^..
iu>y Divers Lamp
to portable lamps Mr Maquay has developed, to the
most successful point th<it pnmary batteries have yet
achieved, the application of his ingenious ideas for the
pro<1iiction of small batteries of high E.M.P, He
Maquay ahowa a neat guinea table lamp with primary
battery io the base, also carriage lamps with separate
battery, running eight hours, to place under the driver's
seat There are no wire connections in these sets, the
lamps slipping into place with spring connections. A
l4-cell battery weighs 121b. only when charged. Aseparate
battery for reading lamp is also shown. This weigha
251b., and, it is stated, will run a 16-c p. lamp for 8
to 10 hours at jd. an hour. In this there are 30
ceils, giving i5 effective volts. Maquay batteries are
shown for bedroom lamps, and also for medical and
dentists' lamps. The same batteiies are also shown
Lltbuioda CtU.
arranges a number of quite tiny electrodes of zinc,
which can be sold at 4s. per gross, in suitable compart-
ments, hermetically sealed or otherwise, containing the acid
solution. This can be obtained either in liquid or mixed
crystals for use. The peculiarity of the Maquay battery
lies in its lightness and constancy. The lightness comes
frum the use of numerous very small cells, usually giving
12 or 20 volts, and the constancy from a peculiar prepara-
tion which ])artially covers up the zinc at first and
afterwards peels off, exposing more surface. The weight
of the miner's lamp is 31b. lloz. It runs for eight hours
without failure in light and for three or four hours longer
with a slightly failing light — say 10 to 12 hours in all. It
M-^^- liiTT^,
has stood actual test, and orders are in hand for several
collieries both in the N'orth and South. The diver's lamp,
which we also show, is now in actual use and works well.
It has also been used in powder mills and gas works. Mr.
driving motors, and a model of an electric boat is
shown. We are told that a full-sized river boat is shortly
to be placed on the river, driven with a motor at 300 revolu-
tions by one of these batteries. A large primary battery
installation for 40 lights is also arranged, and an ingenious
map;netic connection is used to throw the battery out of
action by raising the zincs when all the lamps are tnrnod
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JCNE 10, 1892.
668
off. The most display, howBver, is made with hand lampaj
and neat railway reading-la tnpa and cycling-lamps are now
made by the Maquay Syndicate.
The firm of Catbcart, Feto, and Radford make a
siMciahty in their exhibit of pocket secondary batteries.
They use the Jitbanode secondary cells, of which we have
frequent); sjioken, in combinations of their own. The
single cell can be used for a tiny medical light or scarf pin,
but a convenient arrangement is that of eight cells
mounted in a belt to go round the operator's body. This
gives a sufficient E.M.F. to obtain a good and steady
light, and is an arrangement likely to prove exceedingly
useful to doctors. A larger set of lithanode cells,
fitted in polished wood box, is used for a table light,
and makes a moat convenient reading-tamp. The battery
can be easily charged from a station circuit through an
incandescent lamp. Messrs. Gathcart, Peto, and Badford
also make some good switches with substantial contacts
and double rubbing surfaces. Smaller switches, cut-outs,
and many other fittings are also made by them at their
works in Hatton-garden.
METERS FOR RECORDING THE CONSUMPTION
OF ELECTRICAL ENERGY.*
BY CHARLES HKNRY WORDINGHAM, A.K.C., STUD.INST.C.E.
The rapid advance that electric lighting from central
stations has made during the last few years has brought
the question of the construction of instruments for
recording the ener^ used by individual consumers into
great prominenoe. The subject had engaged the attention
of inventors for many years previously ; out the need was
not BO pressing, and, numerous aa had been the attempts,
but few instruments had passed the experimental stage.
Hence, the eady supply companies were forced to charge
their consumers a fixed price per annum based on an
average number of hours of burning, such average being
of necessity arrived at by guess-work in the absence of
any experience. It was found that this system was
unsatisfactory to the company and its clienta, for in the
case of clubs, restaurants, and many shops, three hours —
the average time assumed — was found to be absurdly
small ; and, on the other hand, it was too large for many
Ckte houses. Endless disputes resulted, and consumers
me dissatisfied and ceased to use the light. A large
amount of loss was occasioned by persons leaving lamps
burning needlessly, because they had not to pay for them ;
and it is a significant fact that in the case of a large central
station in London, the current during the day was sensibly
diminished when a large number of consumers were supplied
by meter instead of by contract.
The urgency of the demand for meters has brought forth
a supply, and there are now in the market several types
tiaX are reliable and accurate, and the author purposes
confining his remarks chiefly to these, merely glancing
briefly at a few of the best of the early and less successfiu
types.
There are two fundamentally different systems of supply —
i.e., (1) by continuous, and (2) by alternating curronts — and
to each of these belong certain classes of meter that will
only work with a particular kind of current, while some
are common to both systems ; these lost are usually
dependent for their action on the square of the current.
In all cases it is desired to measure the total amount of
enei^y that has been converted into light and heat in the
consumers' lamps and wires, and a meter is an instrument
that continuously records the power delivered, and integrates
it with respect to time.
In the case of continuous currents, if E be the potential
difference, or pressure in volts, between the mains at any
instant, and C the current in amperes at that instant
through the lamps, then £ »( G is the power, or rate at
which energy is being supplied in watte ; and if ( is the
time in hours during which the rate is kept up, then E 0 1
is the total quantity of energy in watt-hours used by the
consumer in the timet. This number divided by 1,000 gives
the number of commercial or Board of Trade unite (B.T.TT.)
■ From the Trmuatiioiu of the InstitatioB of <3vi]
consumed. What the meter has to do, then, is to sum up
the successive values of this product
With alternating currents the measurement of the power
is not so simple, for in this case if the mean pressure and
the mean current be multiplied together, the product is
not necessarily the power absorbed. It the current lags
behind the pressure, as it will if the circuit possess seu-
induction (and it always does so in practice, though in tJie
of a bank of incandescent lamps the lag is negligible),
the current maximum does not occur at the same instant
as the presssure maximum, and the real power is less than
that obtained by multiplying together the mean pressure
and the mean current TaUng the same units as before,
if E be the maximum pressure, G the maximum current
and ^ the angle of lag of the current behind the presaore,
then the true power - — - cos ijt.
Since all distribution is effected at constant pressDre, it
is sufficient to integrate the current only, and to multiply
the result by the pressure in the case of continuous cur-
rents, and of alternating currenta also, if incandescent
lamps only are in circuit, provided in all cases that the
standard pressure is closely maintained. This course is
adopted in a large number of meters, and is quite satis-
factory in practice. If, however, greater accuracy be
desired, the principle of the wattmeter must be employed.
Here the stress between two coils, one of which carries the
main current and the other a shunt current proportional to
the pressure, is made use of. The force in tne case of con-
tinuous currents is proportional to the product of the pres-
sure and current ; but in the case of alternating currents
this is only the case if the shunt coil has no self-induction,
a condition manifestly impossible to obtain ; it can, how-
ever, be sufficiently reduced to render the error very small.
It would be entirely out of place in a paper of this kind,
which aims at a description of actual instruments in com-
mercial use, to enter into a mathematical discussion of the
measurement of alternating currents, the matter being folly
treated in text-books in language far more able than the
author's, and to which he could add nothing-
Meters fall broadly into four classes : 1. Those in whioh
the current to be measured, besides controlling the regis-
tering gear, supplies the motive power for it. . 2. Those in
which the current to be measured controls the registering
mechanism, while a separate current supplies the motive
power. 3. Those in which the current merely oonteols
mechanism which is driven by some force altogether
external to the current, such as a spring or weight. 4.
Those in which no gearing is driven, but chemicil action
goes on, involving an alteration in mass of a plate of metal.
Class 1.
Kumerous forms of motor meter have been designed, and
some of the most successful instruments in use at the present
time are included in this class. The majority are curreut,
power-integrators, t'
stant, aa already explained.
and not power-integrators, the pressure
iiority
being
assumed con<
Ferranti Meier. — This depends for its action on the fact
that when a mass of mercury is cut normally by lines of
magnetic induction, and an electric current flows radially
through it, the mercury tends to rotate. If the same
current that fiows through the mercury excites the field,
the speed of rotation will be proportional to the square of
the current ; but mercury being a fluid, its motion is
opposed by friction against the sides of the containing
vessel with a force that varies as the square of the speed,
hence the speed of rotation is proportional to the current
This principle is equally adapted to the measurement of
continuous and of alternating currents, and it has received
very great development at the hands of the inventor. It
is the meter that is chiefly used by the London Electric
Supply Gorporation for installations exceeding 40 amperes,
and as the author has had a large experience of it, a
detailed description may not be out of place.
When the principle is applied to making a practical
instrument, an aluminium Ian, mounted on a spindle, is
immersed in the mercury, and is carried round by it ; the
spindle carries a pinion gearing into a train of counting
wheels. This counting mechanism introduces friction that
is practicalljr independent of the speed of rotation, and is
560
THE ELECTRICAIi ENGINEER. JUNE 10, 1892.
greater when the meter is at rest than when it beginB to
move. The whole friction ii thus made up of two porta,
one varjing as the square of the epeed, the otiiflr icaepen-
dent of the spaed ; obviously the relative importance of the
latter diminishaa as the current, and therefore the speed,
increases. In order to compensate for the error that would
thus be introduced, a "shunt coil" is provided— i.e., a
fine wire winding on the field magnet placed as a shunt
across the lamp leads — thus establishing a certain mag-
netUing force independent of the number of lamps alight.
The rdative importance of this magnetising force mani-
festly decreases as the main current increases, and this
effect is enhanced by a transformer action being set up,
whereby the main current generates in the shunt coil an
KM.F. oppositely directed to that acting on it, thus further
catting down its magnetising efiect. By suitably varying
an extra resistance in series with the winding, the compen-
sation can be made practically perfect In Fig. I are
plotted three curves that very clearly show the part played
Dv the shunt coil. A constant current was maintained
through the main coil, and the current in the shunt coil
was varied by altering the extra resistance in series with it,
the speed of rotation for snccessive values of the latter
bung noted. Another value was then given to the current
in the main coil, and the same operation repeated. The
results are plotted for three main currents, revolutions per
unit as ordinates, and extra resistance as abscisen. It will
be seen that except for very large shunt-magnetising forces
the effect of the shunt coil at himh currents in the main
winding is smalL The point in which the three curves cut
gives the extra resistance required by the particular meter.
One of the latest forms of this meter is shown in Fig. 3.
It is intended for a maximum current of 100 amperes, and
with this load on for 24 hours does not rise to an excessive
temperature. This, it may be noted in passing, is a point
that should always be tried for each meter containing iron,
if intended for alternating currents, for it is found that
out of a batch of similar meters several will heat exces-
sively. The cause is somewhat obscure, but is probably
due to the laminations of the iron becoming short-circuited.
The meter is contained in a viell-venti^ted brass case,
A B C, no wood being used in its construction. The brass
cylinder, B, is slipped on after the leads are fixed, and is
secured by a wrought-iton pin, D, passing through it and
under the base ; a small hole, E, is drilled throagh the end
of this pin, and tape is passed through this and sealed. It is
thus impossible for the meter to be tampered with, and the
whole arrangement is very compact ana convenient The
magnetic circuit, F F, is closed, except for the gap, G,
which contains the mercury. The current enters by the
central portion, H, the rest of the top and bottom of the
cavity being covered with vulcanised fibre. The circum-
ference of the bath is uninsulated, and by it the current
leaves, flowing thence through the main coU, K, one end of
which is attached to the iron of the magnet, and so out of
the meter. The shunt coil is shown at L, and the extra
resistance at M ; N is the fan, wholly immersed in the
murcuiy, and carried by the spindle, 0, which drives the
train, P. The following is a test made of a meter of thii
type:
Test op 100-ampske Alternate -CDaaaaT f erkaiiti Metkk.
Metemtarltd with 0-92 ampere.
90-0
17-0
17-2
Current in
RevoluUons
"sr:-.
perB.T.U.
60-0
17-0
70-0
17-3
80-0
17-3
90-0
17-8
100-0
17-3
It will be noticed that the uniformity of the constant is
most marlced, and it has been found, after repeated experi-
ments, that if the meter is adjusted so as to bare the same
constant at 10 amperes and 100 amperes, the value will be
practically the same at all intermediate points. In the
continuous-current form, solid cast iron or steel is substi-
tuted for laminated wrought iron, and the residual mag-
netism takes the place of the shunt coil. The following
are tests of two of these meters :
TSST OP 100-AMPBKE CoNTIBUOUa-CDEBENT FERRANTI MeTER.
Unsuunted.
Meier atarted with 0'26 ampere.
Current in Revolubiona I Current in Revolutfone
amporoe. perB.T.U. amperea. perB.T.U.
1-0 ia'6 50-0 16-8
10-0 IB'4 j 100-0 16-5
Test of IO.ahpkre CoxTtKUOtTS-CDRRENT Ferrahti Mbtib.
Uhshuntkd.
Meter atarltd loUh O'lS ampere.
Cnrrent in amperes. Revolutiona ^tr B.T.U.
1-0
5-0
112
An important point in connection with the permanent
magnetism of these meters, which renders its use nnobjec-
tionable, is that the steel giving the initial field is magne-
tised to saturation by the largest current the meter is
intended to carry, so that every time the full load is on the
meter the steel is re-ma^netised, and any danger of falling
off in strength of field is avoided.
. In the latest form, meters of the same capacity are made
to have the same constant by adjusting the width of a gap
in the magnetic circuit, and by the introduction of snitabla
gearing the constant is dispensed with and the meter ia
rendered direct-reading. These meters are "double-sealing "
— i.e., the working parts can be sealed by the local autho-
rity against any possible tampering by the supply company,
while the latter can independently seal the terminals in
order to protect itself from fraud on the consumer's part
Some of these mercury meters have been at work for
two or three years without any attention, though it ia
desirable to clean the trains and mercury once a year.
The following case will give some idea of the constancy
that may be attained by this kind of meter. The meter,
an alternate- current one, was installed' on December 3,
1887, and removed on February 2S, 1890, during the
whole of which bime it received absolutely no attention.
It was, however, read weekly, so that its panormance could
be noted, and was constantly at work, except for one week,
when it was removed from one consumer's insbdlatioQ —
the consumer having ceased to take light from the com-
pany— and placed in another's. During the poriod mined
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 10, 1892.
561
the fan made rather more than 9,500,000 revolutions. The
tests of the meter before it was put on the circuit, and after
it was removed, are as follows :
Test made before Mkteb was Installed.
Meier sta/rted toith 0*8 ampere.
Current in
amperes.
1-9 ..
4-6 ..
6-4 ..
Revolations
per B.T.U.
.. 17-77
.. 17-77
.. 17-73
Gorrenc in
amperes.
28-76 ....
67-0 ....
96-0 ....
Reyolutions
perB.T.U.
17-70
17-77
17-73
Test made after over Two Years* Use.
Meter just failed to rotate toUh 2'17 amperes.
Current in
amperes.
70-0 ..
89-6 ..
Revolutions
per B.T.U.
... 17-83
.. 17-81
Current in Revolutions
amperes. per 6.T.U.
10-2 14-68
20-2 16-63
602 17-93
The increased current required to start the meter, and
the diminished constant at low currents, are obviously due
to the train requiring cleaning. The constancy at the high
currents is most satisfactory.
Forbes Meter, — Another meter that is adapted equally to
alternating and to continuous currents is that invented by
Prof. O. Forbes. It is based on the heating property of
the current, and consists of a horizontal spiral of iron wire,
over which is mounted, on a delicate pivoted suspension, a
system of mica vanes. Convection currents are set up in
the air by the hot wire^ and these, rising against the vanes,
urge forward the ring on which they are mounted, its
motion being registered by a train of counting wheels.
The standard form at present made has a maximum
capacity of 30 amperes, and the heated conductor consists
of two concentric wires connected together by a number of
fine wires. The current enters at a point in the circum-
ference of one circle, and dividing between its two halves,
flows by the fine wires into the other, and leaves by a point
in its circumference.
In order to increase the starting power of the meter, a
small weight is attached to a cord passing over a pulley
and round a drum on the last wheel of the train ; this
tends to drive the train, and so gives the vanes less work
to do.
This meter gave great promise when it first appeared,
but it does not seem to have met with much favour,
probably because, resembling, as it does, a laboratory
instrument in delicacy, it is found unsuitable for practical
work. It is liable also to be affected by external changes
of temperature and by the temperature of its case not
being uniform.
Hookhmn Meter, — This consists of a motor driven by the
current to be measured, the motor being retarded by eddy
currents set up in a copper disc. A tungsten-steel perma-
nent magnet with cast-iron pole-pieces, provides a constant
field, and in this is placed the armature, which consists of
flat coils laid on a copper disc, the latter serving the double
Eurpose of a support for these coils and of a brake, the
ktter effect being produced by the eddy currents set up in
it. The armature spindle rests on friction-wheels, so that
a small force will cause it to move, and with a view to still
further diminish friction, mercury contacts are provided,
instead of brushes, for the commutator.
The theory of the instrument will be plain from the
following considerations. The work done in a given time
is proportional to the attraction between the disc and the
field, and to the speed. Now in a constant field the
E.M.F. generated in the disc varies as the speed, and since
this acts through a constant resistance, the eddy currents
also vary as the speed ; hence the work done is propor-
tional to the square of the speed. The work supplied
by the armature is proportional to the driving force and
to the speed, but the driving force varies as the current ;
hence the work supplied in a given time varies as the
current and the speed. But it has been shown that the
work done is proportional to the square of the speed ;
hence it follows that the speed is proportional to the
current.
The principle can be adapted to either alternating or
continuous currents, but, so far, instruments for the latter
class of current only have been constructed.
The motor is adjusted so that the dials show Board of
Trade units, and it thus possesses the important advantage
that its indications have not to be divided by a constant
This is brought about by varving the strength of the field
in which the armature revolves, by short-circuiting more
or less the magnetic circuit.
Some difficulty was experienced in passing the whole
current through the mercury contacts, so that in the latest
form all the motors are made to carry five amperes, and
are shunted with a Oerman silver resistance that allows
the requisite proportion of current to pass. This is open
to two serious objections — viz., (1) any error in the meter
is magnified, since a portion only of the current drives the
motor; (2) if the resistance of contact of the mercury
varies (as it is almost certain to do), the motor does not
get its right proportion of current, and its indications are
therefore fallacious. The mercury being exposed to the
air, and being subject to sparking, is rapidly oxidised, and
in practice much trouble is experienced on this account,
the meter requiring, after a time, a considerable current to
start it. The permanent magnet is also an objectionable
feature, though it is said that little change is found to
occur in the field on account of the care taken in the pre-
paration of the magnets, and because the gap in the
m^netic circuit is small.
The author has not had the opportunity of testing any of
these meters, but it is stated that a 20-ampere meter starts
with 0*4 ampere ; and that with 0-6 ampere the error is
25 per cent. ; with 1*2 ampere it is 10 per cent.; while
after 2*5 amperes the error is neglible.^
Elihu Thomson Meter, — Another meter closely resemblin((
this in principle has lately been developed by Prof. Elihu
Thomson, and appears to be free from some of its defects.
A motor is provided, having its armature wound with fine
wire and excited with a shunt current, and its fields, with-
out iron, excited by the main current. Since the field is
proportional to the current, and the armature current to
the pressure, the driving force is proportional to the watts,
and hence the instrument is a vratt-hour meter. The
opposing force, as in the Hookham meter, is due to eddy
currents, generated in a copper disc, which is rotated by
the armature in a constant field set up by permanent
magnets. It is thus open to one of the objections to that
meter, but is free from the mercury contacts and variable
shunt resistance.
Falling off in strength of the permanent magnets is much
to be apprehended, since they are under peculiarly trying
conditions : the eddy currents, as in the Hookham meter,
tend to demagnetise the magnets ; and in the alternating
form they are subject to the mechanical vibration which
always accompanies this class of current. Another source
of error is the friction of the motor brushes, which is
likely to alter with wear and dirt.
Time alone can show the importance of these objections ;
there can be no doubt that when new the meter is capable
of giving indication of great accuracy, as the following test
proves (see Table A, next page).
In order to try the effect of varying the pressure as well
as the current, the following tests were made of the same
meter:
Current in
Pressure in
Power in
Revolutions per
amperes.
volts.
watts.
B.T.U.
24-8
108
2,678
9-96
201
108
2,171
9-96
15-2
108
1,642
9-72
10-0
108
1.080
9-66
24-9
90
2,241
1014
201
90
1,809
10-02
14-9
90
1,341
9-66
The extremely low speed of the armature, and its property
* Since this paper was read, Mr. J. H. Tonge, Stud. Inst. C.E.,
has favoured the author with the following test of a 100-ampere
Hookham meter for continuous currents. With pure mercury in
the contact cups, the meter started with one ampere, and with
100 amperes it read 1 per cent, low ; with 50 amperes, 4 per cent,
low ; with 20 amperes, 9 per cent, low ; and with three amperes,
17 per cent low. When, however, ordinary commercial mercury
which had been in use for a short time was substituted for pure,
3 '6 amperes were required to start the meter, and with 100 amperes
it read 8 per cent. low. This conclusively proves the statement
made as to the error introduced by the variable resistance of the
meroury oontaots.
562
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 10, 1892.
Table A — Test of 25- ampere Elihu Thomson Meter.
Meter started with 0'4 ampere.
Current in
Preesare in
Power in
Revolutions per
amperes.
volts.
watts.
B.T.U.
24-9
100
2,490
1014
23-9
100
2,390
10 02
22-9
100
2,290
1002
21-9
100
2,190
1008
20-9
100
2,090
10-02
19-8
100
1,980
1002
18-8
100
1,880
9*96
17-9
100
1,790
10*20
17-0
100
1,700
10 20
15 9
100
1,590
1002
14-9
100
1,490
9-96
13 9
100
1,390
9 96
12-9
100
1,290
9-90
11-9
100
1,190
9*90
10-9
100
1,090
9-78
9-7
100
970
9-78
8*6
100
860
9-84
7*8
100
780
9*84
e*8
100
680
9-72
8-0
100
600
9-72
4-8
100
480
9-72
4-0
100
400
9-60
3-0
100
300
9-42
20
100
200
8-70
0-99
100
99
7-44
0-7S
100
78
6-66
0-58
100
58
4-98
of stopping almost dead immediately the current is switched
off, are noticeable points, and the former is an important
advantage, as tending to lengthen the life of the meter by
diminishing the wear.
In measuring currents supplied on the three- wire system,
the neutral wire does not enter the meter, but the others
pass each through one of the two field coils. The armature
circuit is connected across the outer conductors, being thus
excited with 200 volts.
When it is desired to measure the current conveyed by
the high-tension mains from an alternating central station,
the high-tension lead is taken through the field coils, while
the armature circuit is excited by the secondary of a special
converter, having its primary connected across the high-
tension mains.
Ferranti-Wright Meter, — This is, in effect, an alternate-
current motor, and depends for its action on one of those
peculiar phenomena which take place when a conducting
circuit is cut by lines of magnetic induction which are
varying rapidly in direction and intensity. The meter is
Fio. 3.
FiQ. 4.
shown in plan diagrammatically in Fig. 3. The four limbs,
A B, B D, D C, G A, consisting of laminated wrought iron,
are wound so that B and C are opposite poles ; each of
these is fitted with a pole-piece consisting of an elongated
bom, forming part of a circle, within which is placed a
conducting disc, £, usually, but not necessarily, of iron.
Each horn is surrounded by a closed conducting circuit of
low resistance, consisting of one or more copper bands
slipped over them, shown at F F. It is impossible to give
a full explanation of this remarkable meter in a few words,
but perhaps the following will make its principle fairly
clear. Suppose a current to rise in the magnetising coils
from zero to a maximum, then it tends to magnetise the
iron, and the induction in the iron follows the successive
values of the current in the part enclosed by the coils
nearly instantaneously, but in the horns it lags behind the
current, partly on account of hysteresis, but chiefly because
|te change generates in the circuit, F F, currents that tend
to magnetise the iron in the opposite direction. The action
of the closed copper circuit is to hinder the rise of mag-
netism in the iron, giving it a kind of magnetic self induc-
tion in just the same way as iron gives to an electric circuit
ordinary self-induction. Now suppose for a single rising
current there be substituted a rapidly-alternating one, then
any point in the horn will experience a series of wAves of
magnetism following one another, and successive points
along the horns will be subject to waves of diminishing
amplitude (for the maximum induction falls off towards the
tips), differine; in phase from one another on account of the
lag above mentioned. The state of the induction in either
horn at any instant may be represented by a curve, the lag
being sufficiently great in some cases to cause the induction
to be of opposite sign at the tip and at the root. There
are thus, as it were, a series of tufts of lines of force travel-
ling along the horns and brushing past the disc. Now
these induce currents in the disc, and owing to its self-
induction, the repulsive effect preponderates over the
attractive, and the disc is repelled round. It is found that
its speed is proportional to the square of the current, but
by mounting radial mica fans on it, its motion is retarded
by the air resistance with a force that varies nearly as the
square of the speed, and hence the disc revolves pro[K>r-
tionately to the current. There are two causes operating
to disturb this proportion at the two ends of the range :
(1) At starting, the friction of the disc spindle is relatively
large, and the speed is lower than it should be ; this is
overcome by winding the magnets with a shunt coil that
is just sufficient not to cause the disc to revolve. (2) At
high speeds the air resistance depends on a rather higher
power than the square of the velocity, thus making the
speed somewhat lower than it should be. This is com
pensated for by slitting the fans as shown in Fig. 4, so tliat
they yield somewhat, and thus expose a less effective
surface. How perfect this compensation is, may be judged
from the foUowing tests of a 10-ampere and 20-ampere
meter :
TiST OF 10-AMPERE FeRRANTI-WrIOHT MeTRR.
Meier atari ed with 0*25 ampere.
Current in amperes. Revolutions per B.T.U.
125 1170
500 116-4
7-50 115-2
10-00 114-0
Test op 20-ampere Ferranti-Wrioht Meter.
Al eter Kfarted mth 0-65 ampere.
Carrent in Revolutions
amperes. per B.T.U.
2-5 117-3
50 1161
7-5 114-.3
10-0 114-9
Current in Revolutions
amperes. per B.T.U.
12-5 115-2
15-0 116-2
17-6 114-5
20-0 116-4
(To be continued,)
ELECTRIC AND CABLE RAILWAYS.
The following memorandum, prepared by Lord Kelvin,
forms Appendix A to this report :
1. Every part of the electrical system which is kept at a poten-
tial differing from that of the iron tube, should be carefully pro-
tected aeainst accidental or intentional contacts, or disturbance of
any kind by passeneers.
[For brevity in what follows, difference of potential from that of
the iron tube shall be called *' pressure."]
2. Any part of the electrical system kept permanently, or liable
to be occasionally kept at any pressure exceeding 300 volts, ought
to be carefully protected against accidental contact, whether of
passengers or of the company's servants. Hence the third or insa-
lated rail ought to be overhead, and not in the bottom of the tube,
between the two bearing rails, as it is at present on the South
London line.
3. If the third, or insulated, rail is permanently or at any time
in ordinary use kept at a pressure exceeding 500 volts, it, and
feeders or other conductors directly connected with it, if there are
any, must be insulated overhead.
4. This committee does not insist chat in the particular case of
the extension of the South London line the present arrangement
with third rail below may not be adopted, but if it is adopted the
pressure must on no account exceed 500 volts.
5. In each of the Bills before this committee there ought to be a
clause protecting telegraphs and telephones against disturbanco,
similar to the causes adopted for the Liverpool Overhead Elec-
trical Railway, and for the South London Electrical Railway.
May 19, 1892, Kklvin.
TfiE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 10, 1892.
563
NIAGARA AND ELECTRICITT.
The following letter from Prof. George Forbes, who is at
Niagara, appeared in a recent issue of the Times :
" Sir, — It is now some eight years since I stood on the
southern edge of the American Fall, less imposing, though
more approachable than the Canadian or Horseshoe Fall,
just above the Gave of the Winds, and, while watching the
huge volumes of water within a yard of my feet leaping
over the precipice, dreamed dreams. To-day I go over the
same ground, and find my dreams within range of realisa-
tion. When I recall the number of poets and philosophers
who have sat on the same spot and been inspired by the
same incentive to thought, 1 should indeed be foolhardy if
I were to attempt to describe my impressions of this
marvel of nature. When I recall the apt language in
which these thoughts have been uttered, sometimes in
the columns of the Times, I would not put pen to paper
were it not that some matters which occur to me may
awaken a new interest in the gigantic cataract and
may even point a moral. I will not try to describe, I will
only repeat, as my individual experience, the fact known
to everyone who knows this spot, that it grows on you
like the sympathy of a true friend. It is always the same,
but never two moments alike. Every hour of the day the
sun strikes each part of the falls in a new direction, and
each day in the year and each moment in the day the
curtain of mist that rises from their base at the same time
hides or encircles some new feature of the cascade, while
the rush of the rapids and the deep boom of the falls vary
with every point of view and with every change in the
wind. An artist once said to me that a great part of the
beauty of a scene comes from expectancy, wonder, and
curiosity as to the unseen parts hidden by nearer objects. This
is empluiticaUy so with the mist under the Horseshoe Fall.
No one was ever wearied by the monotony of this scene.
" When an astronomer wishes to give an idea of the dis-
tance of the stars, he begins with what is near and
intelligible. He takes the case of the railway trains that
go at 60 miles an hour, and he says that it would take
4,000 hours to travel to the moon, and so be goes on by
steps. At the spot where I dreamt my dream eight years
ago I was looking at a small portion cut off by a small
island from the American Fall, perhaps a hundredth part
of it, and the American Fall passes, perhaps, one-fiftn of
the water passed by the Horseshoe Fall, and following the
astronomers, by dealing with a little bit which I was able
directly to realise, I was more able to grasp the total
power developed at this little spot on the earth. It was
not then impossible to believe that ^ million horse-
power were being developed | in the falls, or, as Sir
William Siemens put it, the equivalent of all the
steam power used in the world. As a plain fact, if
it takes on an average 41b. of coal to generate 1 h.p
for an hour, this water power is the equivalent of
15,000,000 tons of coal per annum. But I was struck, not
so much by the volume of water that was shooting down
as by the immensity of the power of heat which is able to
evaporate and carry to the great lakes by the winds a
volume of water equal to that which I was able to see was
passing. I then realised that this is the most gigantic
condensing steam engine in the world of 4,500,000 h.p.
The power in the falls acts as a furnace ; the mass-velocity
of the water acquired by the fall is arrested and converted
by fluid friction into molecular velocity, which is heat;
the lower river and the ocean form the boiler from which
the heated water evaporates ; the wind is the engine by
which the steam is carried to the condensers, which are
the great lakes. The work done is the work of raising a
thousand million pounds weight of steam from the lower
river and ocean to be eventually deposited in the upper
lakes every minute of time — not necessarily the same atoms
of steam, but their equivalent.
" When my dream had carried me thus far the spirit of
the engineer arose in me. I quote from memory when I
say that the charter of the Institution of Civil Engineers
defines the province of the engineer to be ' to utilise the
forces of Nature for the service of man,' a noble definition.
In my dream I was filled with the aspirations which have
moved so many at this spot, and a desire to bind a portion
of this power and use it for the service of man. And now,
eight years after, I see that the preparations are almost
complete for the utilisation of 100,000 h.p., and part of
this power will certainly be used long before the close of
the year. Few people in England who have heard of this
engineering feat are aware of how far it has advanced.
More than a mile above the falls a canal has been
cut, 1,500ft. long, at right angles to the river. A
vertical shaft 140ft. deep is being sunk, and from the
lower level a tunnel 28ft high, and 18ft. wide, and
6,700ft. long, has been carried at a slope of 7 per
1,000, to issue at the foot of the cliffs below the falls,
just under the suspension bridge. This work is all
nearly completed. The lining of the tunnel with four
courses of bricks is going on at the rate of 100,000 a
day, and this rate is about to be increased. The turbines
are in hand. Part of the power is to be used in factories
now being built directly over shafts, and we are now
preparing for the electncal transmission of power. In a
year's time it is probable that the city of Niagara Falls will
be lighted by this power and the street electric railways
worked by it. Factories are being erected on the vast
extent of land owned by the company which has a perpetual
right to use this power over five miles of river frontage
from a little above the falls upwards. Already 30 acres of
land have been reclaimed by the company from the river,
and the river is about to be deepened in front of their
wharves. A railway five miles long, all passing through
the company's land, is in hand to connect the three lines of
railway with the principal factories on the company's
property. This will eventually be worked bv an electric
locomotive. Streets have been laid out, and a part has
been laid aside for operatives' cottages. All this I have
seen, and I recognised the foundation of an important
manufacturing centre. Franchises have been obtained
from owners of property for a second tunnel under the
city of Niagara Falls. All this has been done, and at a
surprising small cost, by the energy, caution, and foresight
of the directors of the company, of which Mr. Adams is
the president, Mr. Wickes and Mr. Stetson vice-presidents,
and Mr. Eankine (a cousin of Prof. Macquorne Bankine)
the secretary. In 1890 they appointed a commission oi
leading scientific men in Europe and America, presided
over by Lord Kelvin. These commissioners considered all
the proposals submitted, and since then the company's
engineers have dealt with all the hydraulic problems. The
board of engineers includes the names of such men as Prof.
Goleman Sellers, Mr. Herschel, and Colonel Turrettini, of
Geneva. The electric part of the work is now to be carried
out. In 1890, when preparing plans to lay before the
commission, I proposed to employ alternating currents,
using as motors eitJier the alternating dynamo or the multi-
phase motor, which has since attracted so much attention
at Frankfort last year. This was an innovation on previous
practice, and it is worthy of record that the commission
were unanimous (with one exception) in desiring to pass a
resolution saying that alternating currents were not avail-
able for the purpose. Already opinion has changed, and the
subsequent progress has so completely borne out the views
expressed in 1890 that we are going to adopt this method.
'* It may be that what I have already written may con-
vince many of the enormous character of this undertaking.
But the importance of the company's transactions has been
only half told. They have lately acquired from Canada
the exclusive right to use land in the Victoria Park for the
same purpose for 100 years. The river above the Horseshoe
Fall on the Canadian side has a branch going round Cedar
Island. The power-house can be built here. Enough water
can be brought through the branch to utilise 250,000 h.p.,
and the tunnel from the bottom of the shaft to the very
base of the fall will only be about 800ft long. This fran-
chise is a most valuable addition to the powers possessed
by the company on the other side.
" Many visitors to the Chicago Exposition next year will
stop to see the progress of this gigantic undertaking, and
they will not be disappointed, and it is a matter for
congratulation that, so far as the present intentions of the
company go, the beauty of the falls will not be affected
nor the volume of water perceptibly diminished. — I am,
Sir, your obadient servant, " GsoROX Forbks."
564
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 10, 1891
THE
ELECTRICAL ENGINEER.
Pablished every Friday.
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Editorial and Publlshlner Ofllees :
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Notes 563
Crystal Palace Exhibition ... 558
Meters for Recording the
Consamption of Electrical
Energy 559
Electric and Cable Rail-
ways 562
Niagara and Electricity 563
Threepence 564
Niagara 565
Correspondence 565
Reviews 566
Experiments with Alternate
Currents of High Poten-
tial and High Frequency 566
Electro-MetaSurgv 570
Institution of Electrical
Engineers 572
Legal In tell^ence 574
Companies' Reports 574
New Companies Registered 575
Business Notes 575
Provisional Patents, 1892 ... 576
Stock and Share List 576
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THREEPENCE.
The policy of St, Pancras is a bold one, but it has
the appearance of being one that may prove
eminently successfol, and so is well worthy of trial.
Onr readers are aware that some time since the
machinery at the St. Pancras central station was
folly loaded with lamps during a certain part of the
daily run. The output curves of this and every
other central station, however, show that full load ia
only on during a small portion of the twenty-four
hours. Ordinary manufacturers — and with them we
must include the manufacturer of electrical energy —
are not satisfied with having their machinery fully
loaded about two hours a day, but prefer to have
it fully loaded all day. The two schools of
electrical engineers attempt the solution of the
question in different ways. One contends that the
proper method to employ is storage. A compara-
tively small plant, working always at full load, is
used to store during the hours of little demand, and
the store thus obtained is used to supplement the
supply of the machinery during the hours of full
demand. The problem of the economy of storage
is very much on a par with that of the economy of
mains. The other school repudiates storage, and at
present rely on economical working by means of
small units — the units being successively brought
into action as the demand requires. Time and actual
figures of results will prove which school is to
survive, unless something more than the distribution
of energy for lighting is brought into the problem.
This is just what Prof. Bobinson at St. Pancras is
endeavouring to do. We have long since argued
that the primary object of a central station may
prove to be the distribution of energy for power
purposes. It seems certain, however, that such
distribution involves a second set of mains so as
to interfere as little as possible with the pressure
upon the lighting mains. The advantage of the
supply of power is that the demand should
be pretty constant during the working day,
and this with overlapping ends is just the
time when the demand for lighting is small.
In a well-designed station for the supply of
both light and power, the load on the machinery
might be kept pretty constant. We assume that
there is or will be a demand for power. Of course a
part of the station management will be to take care
that the machinery is not so loaded but that sudden
demand due to fog or some other reason can be met.
The St. Pancras authorities, then, in order to get a
full load upon their machinery, not for one or two
hours a day, but continuously and all day, have
decided to supply current during the day service for
power purposes at threepence pet unit. Now
there are hundreds and thousands of small users of
power who could cheaply and conveniently obtain
current for their purpose. The initial cost of a
small motor is not great, and the cost of mainten-
ance is very small indeed ; in fact, may, in many
cases, be left out of consideration. The great advan-
tage of an electric motor is that the moment it
ceases running it ceases to consume energy, and the
meter registers nothing against the user. In the
case of a small steam engine there is always a certain
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JtJNE 10, 1891
565
coDsomption of fuel and some attendance required,
and, together with the known lack of economy in
these small engines, make up a cost which is hardly
to be credited. The view is, no doubt, somewhat
Utopian, but in the very near future we imagine
motors will be nearly as common as blackberries —
shoe-cleaners, knife-cleaners, sewing machines,
ventilating fans will all be supplied. Hotels will
have to fit motors to all these pieces of appa-
ratus. One great field for the use of current will be
in applying it to filters. As at present constituted,
these articles of domestic use are merely separators
of mechanical impurities, yet by a very simple
addition — Hke that in Parker's patent shown at the
Crystal Palace — not only can we get water mechani-
cally pure — but by generating oxygen can thoroughly
oxygenise the water as to chemically remove all
oxidisible germs, rendering the water chemically
pure, while at the same time filling it with oxygen
gas, making it better than any of the sparking table
waters which are so much in vogue. Every house-
holder who uses the electric light will ultimately
have his water not only filtered in the ordinary way,
but supplementarily purified by electricity. In
fact, if oxygen is as effective in destroying germs
of disease as it is reputed to be, there seems to
be no difficulty in rendering all drinking-water
absolutely harmless as a carrier of disease germs.
The cost to the householder to obtain this
absolutely pure water, subsequent to the initial cost
of the filter, would be far less than the cost of an
eight-candle lamp. The amount of current required
for such a purpose would be small, but collectively
it should add to the load of the central station and
a^ist the demand, which would make central station
working more easy.
NIAGARA.
The utilisation of the water power from Niagara
appeals to Englishmen more as another conquest or
harnessing of Nature's powers, more as an abstract
question rather than having any concrete bearing.
It is very interesting to know that so many thousands
or millions of horse-power can be obtained from the
falls, but when, to utilise this hitherto wasted power,
it becomes necessary to build a city and factories,
many other questions have to be solved before the
economy or the commercial aspect of the matter can
be said to be known. Prof. Forbes's letter to the
Times, reprinted elsewhere in this issue, is the letter
of an enthusiast. No doubt the men who have put their
money into the attempt to harness Niagara have
examined into the question of whether factories are
wanted, and more especially the kind of factories
wanted at the point where this enormous power can
be obtained. Factories could be erected and water
power obtained in many places upon the earth's
surface, but much more than the possibility is
required before such speculations become commer-
cially profitable. It is not long since a case came
under our notice of a man of great experience
running a factory to make an article in large
demand for which be could obtain a ready
sale at a price. He was» however, unable to
sell at the price, because the cost of transporting
the raw materials to and the finished articles from
the factory was too high. The result was ulti-
mately the closing of the factory and the usual white-
washing of the merchant. Thus, before we can
enter into a full consideration of the value of obtain-
ing power firom Niagara, we must have information
as to the proposed manufactures, and whether the
position of the factories is such as to warrant com-
mercial men embarking capital in starting such
factories. The methods carried out to utilise this
enormous water power will be watched with keen
interest, and when the details are fully known they
will appeal to every electrical student. The concep-
tion of the work and the carrying it out demand
the heartiest approbation, and it is to be hoped that
the result will be as successful as the greatest
enthusiast can desire. If naturally the position is
not a good commercial one, this attempt will, at any
rate, assist to solve a problem, whether under
certain conditions it may not be more profitable to
go to the natural power rather than to a position
more favourable in other respects, but where
artificial power has to be used. The result must,
we think, depend on cost of transport to and from
the point.
CORRESPONDENCE.
" One man's word U no man's word,
Justice needs that both be heard."
THE MAGNETIC BOOT.
Sir, — The magnetic boot is an old dodge. It was
exhibited at the electrical exhibition at the Crystal Palace
11 years ago. The magnet was in the sole, and the man
had 20 or 30 little compasses on bis counter, and when he
passed the boot (a lady's very neat patent leather boot)
over the compasses the effect on the needles was wonderful.
I took a fancy to the compasses, and I persuaded the man
to sell me one, and I made a galvanometer of it. I don't
know that anyone bought the boots, but there are plenty
of fools in the world, and people who will buy belts will
buy boots. — Yours, etc. X.
MEDICAL ELECTRICITY.
Sir, — My attention has been called to your remarks on
the above subject in a recent number of the Electrical
Engineer, in which you seem to doubt that ** toothache,
desJness, and even blindness " can be cured by means of
electricity, and you observe that Prof. G^ismar " must be a
peculiarly able manipulator of nerves, or his audience
peculiarly credulous," though I think the good folks in
Aberdeen are too far n^ih to be easily imposed upon.
May I be allowed to say that Mr. Grigg, the celebrated
medical electrician of Eastbourne-terrace, has cured all
these complaints long before the *' Professor" was ever
heard of. to the year 1866 — when probably the "Professor"
was learning his A B C — Annie Robins, of Plymouth, who
had been blind for over 20 years, had her sight restored by
means of Mr. Origg's treatment; and in 1876, K. Alderman,
of Stonehouse, who had been deaf for 15 years, was per-
fectly cured, and many other cases could be given if neces-
sary. Toothache also can be instantly cured by electricity.
If sufferers would only eive Mr. Grigg's system a trial
they would soon obtain relief and be ultimately cured.
AH the leading medical men in London and elsewhere are
well aware of the many marvellous cures made by Mr.
Grigg from time to time, in cases which have been given up
by the faculty as incurable ; but it is not to their interest
to admit this. On the contrary, they do all they can to
keep Mr. Grigg's treatment dark^ and try to frighten
patients who enquire about it, and say it is very daof^ioiu
see
THE ELECTRICAL EUGHI^EER, JUNE 10, 1892.
to heart and brain ; but there ia no danger whatever, and
blocks from Mr. Grigg's far-famed electromagnetic machines
are unknown.
Trusting you will give publicity to this letter in your
next issue — Yours, etc., David Eodan.
13, Upper MonUgue-atreet, W., May 25, 1892.
Aruaturb Stahpinqs. — A correspond ent wants to
know the names and addresses of makers of armature
stampings.
This directory, in the hands of new publishers, may be
■aid to have taken a new lease of life. It now fills over
750 pages, and, without considering supplementary matter,
is divided into three parts or sections dealing respectively
with the Continent, America, and Britain. EacQ section
gives first an alphabetical list of names, then a classified list
of trades. Of course, it is absolutely impossible to ensure
every address being correct in a large work of this kind,
because of the constant moving of many members of the
profession, but so far as we have been able to test the
addresses they are exceedingly " up to date." The method
of testing the accuracy of a directory is very simple. Most
business firms at timet send circulars, or catalogues, or
price-lists to the members of the industry, and the accuracy
of the directory is gauged by the numbers returned through
the post. We venture to say that no other directory
approaches this in extent or accuracy, nor is better
arranged for finding out the name required.
EXPERIMENTS WITH ALTERNATE CURRENTS OF
HIGH POTENTIAL AND HIGH FREQUENCY.*
BY NIKOLA TE.SLA.
fContivMtd from pagt S^S. )
It) all these experimente Cho actioD was iatensiGed by
aapmanting Uie capacity aC tba und of tha lead connected to the
bertoinal. Ab a rale, it is not oeceeeary to resort to such means,
and would be qnite nniieeeBBary witii still higher frequencies, but
when it is desired, the bulb or tube can be easily adapted tc the
purpose. In Fig. 25, for example, an experimental bulb, L, is
shown, which is provided with a neok, n, on the top for tlie
application of an external tinfoil coating, which may be connected
1 the terminal, and the leading-in wire, lo, to an ingulated
plaM. If the biilb stands in a socket upright, as shown in the cut,
u shads of canducting material may be slipped in the neck, n,
and tha action thus maenided. A more ]iorfected arrangement
used in some □[ these bulbs is illustrated in Fig, 2S. In this cose
the construction of the bulb is as shown and described before,
whan reference was made to Fig. 19. A zinc sheet, Z, with a
tubular extension, T, is slipped over the metallic socket, S. The
bulb hangs downwards from the terminal, I, the zinc sheet, 7.,
performing the double otEce at intensilier and reflector. The
reflector is separated from the terminal, ', by an extension of the
insulatine plug, P. A similar diapoaition with a phosphorescent
tube is illustrated in Fig. 37. The tube, T, ia prepared from two
short lubes of a different diameter, which are sealed on the ends.
On tha lower ond is placed an outside conducting coating, C,
which connects to the wire, tt>. The wire has a hook on the upper
end tor suspension, and passes through the centre of the inside
tube, which is lilled with some good and tightly -pocked insulator.
On tha outeide of the upper end of the tube, T, is another con-
ducting coating, d, upon which ia slipped a metallia reflector,
Z, which should be se[«rated by a thick insulation from Hba end of
The economical use of such a reflector or intenaitier would
require that all energy supplied to an air condenser shontd be
recoverable, or. in other words, that there should not be any
leases, neither in the gaseous medium nor through its action else-
where. This is far from being so. but, fortunate^, the losses may
be reduced to anything desired. A few remarks are neoessary on
this Bubjeot, in order to make the experiences gathered in the
course of these investigations perfectly clear. Suppose a small
helix with many well -insulated turns, as in experiment Fig. 17,
' Lecture delivered before the Institution of Electrical
Engineers at the Royal Institution, on Wednesday^ evening,
February 3, 1892. From the Jowiud of the Institution of
Eleotrical BnglDeen.
has one of its ends oonnected to one of the terminals of the
induction coil, and the other to a metal plate, or, for the sake
Elicity, a sphere, insulated in apace. When uie coil ia aet
, the potential of the sphere is alternated, and the email
now behaves aa though its free end were connected to the
other terminal of the induction coiL If an iron rod be held within
the small helix, it Is quickly brought to a high temperature, indi-
cating the passage of a strong current through the helix. How
Fio. 25. — Improved Bxperimeata] Bnlb.
does the insulated sphere act in this case 1 It oaa be a Oi
storing and returning the energy supplied to It, or ft oaa
sink of energy, and the oonditions of the expaimaot <
whether it is more one or the other. The sphMe h''
a high potential, it acta inductively upon Uie >nR ^
whatever gaseous medium there might M. TbemoleonleB, oratooi^
which are near the sphere are of course mora attoacted, aod mova
Flo. 28.— Improved Bulh with Intensifying Brfeotorl 'H
a. all distances within the indnctive action of the spbera. It Is
now clear that, if the potential be steady, but little Ices of vavrgf
can be caused in this way, for the molecules which are oeareat
to the sphere, having had an additional charge imparted to them
by contact, are not attracted until they have parted, if not with
all, so with moat of the additional charge, which can be aoeom-
plished only after a great many collisions. From the foot that
with a steady potential there Is but little loss in dry air, one
must come to such a conclusion. When the potential of the
sphere, instead of being steady, is alternating, the oondidona are
entirely difieisnt. In this oaae a rhytbuiioal bombardmant
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 10, 1892.
567
occnra, no nuittor wbether the molecules after corainK in oootact
with the aphere loae the inparted ohai^ or not ; nEat is more,
if the obarga is nob lost, the impacte are only the more violent.
Still, if the frequency of the impulses be very small, the loss
caused by the impacts and coUisions would not be serious unless
the potential were eice«sive. But when extremelv high frequen-
cies and more or less high potentisla are used, the toss may be
very great. The total energy lost per unit of time is prepor-
tiouate to the prodact of the number of impacts per second, or
the frequency, and the energy lost in each impact. But the
«DOrgy of an impact must be proportionate to the square of the
eleobio density ef the sphere, since the charge imparted to the
molecule Is proportionate to that density. I conclude from this
that the total energy lost must be proportionate to the product of
the frequency and uie sauare of the eWbrlc density ; but this law
needs experimental connrmation. Assuming the preceding con-
siderations to be true, then, by rapidly alternating the potential
of a body immersed in an insulating gaseous medium, any amonat
of energy may be dissipated into spooa. Most of that energy,
then, I believe, i* not dissipated in the form of long ether waves,
Eropagsted to ooniiderable distance, as is thought most generally,
at is coDsnroed^u the case of on insulated sgAerc, for example—
in impact and ocdUslonal losses — that ia, heat vibrations— on the
surface and in the vicinity of the sphere. To reduce the dissipa-
tion, it is necessary to work with a small electric density— the
smaller, the hieher the frequency. But since, on the assumption
before made, the loss is diminished with the square of the density,
and since currents of very high frequencies involve considerable
waste when transmitted through conductors, it follows that, en
the whole, it is better to employ one wire than two. Therefore, if
motors, lamps, or devices of any kind are perfected, capable of
being advantageously operated "by currents of extremely hi(
frequency, economictd reasons wilt moke it advisable ' ~ ~
re, especdally if the distances
FlO. 27. — PhosidioreBcent Tube.with Intensifying Reflector,
When energy is absorbed in 'a condenser, the'same^ behaves as
thoorii its capadty were increased. Absorption exists more or
1ms urnys, but generally it ia small and of no conaeqnenee as long
as the freqaenoieB ore not very great. In ludng extremely hisn
feeqaaaoies, and, neoesssrily, in such case also high potentiaJa,
tlie abaorpliion— OT" what is here meant more particularly by
tLiB term, the loes of energy doe to the preeeuoe of a gaseous
medium — is an important factor to be oonsidered, as the energy
abeocbed tn the air condenser may be any fraction of the
■applied energy. This would seem to make It very difficult to
tell from the meoanred or computed capacity of an air con-
denaer its actual oapocity or vibration period, especially if the
condenser is of very small surface and is charged to a very
high potenbiaL As many important results are aependent upon
the aorreotnesB of the estimation of the vibration period, this
eabjeob demands the most careful scrutiny of other investigators.
To rednce the probable error as much as possible in expenments
of the kind alluded to. It is advisable to use spheres or plates of
laree surface, so as to make the density exceedingly small.
Otherwise, when it 1b practicable, an oil condenser shoiudbe used
in preference. In oil or otJier liquid dielectriee there are seem-
ingly no such losses as in gaseous media. It beine impossible
to exclude entirely the gas in condensers with solid dielectrica,
each condensers should be immersed in oil, for economical reasons
if nothing else ; bhey can then be strained to the utmost
aad will remain cool. In Leyden jars the loss due to air is
OOmporatively small, as the tinfoil coatings are largo, close
together, and the charged surfaces nob directly eipo^d ; but
when the potentials are very high, the loss may be more or less
considerable at, or near, the upper edee of the toil, where the air
is prlnolpally acted npon. If the jar oe immersed in boiled-out
(^, ib will be capable of performiiig four Umw tlie omoont ol work
ay, « . ,
It should not be thought tnst the loss in heat In an air ci.
denser is necessarily associated with the formation of visible
streams or brushes. If a small electrode, enclosed in an un.
exhausted bulb, is connected to one of the terminals of the coil,
streams can be seen to issue from the electrode, and the air in Che
bulb is heated ; if. instead of a small electrode, aloree sphere is
enclosed in the bulb, no streams are observed, still the air is
heated. Nor should it be thought that the t«mperabure of an air
condenser would give even an approximate idea of the loes in heat
Incurred, as in such case heat must be given off much more quickly
since there is, in addition to the ordinary radiation, a very active
carrying away of heat by Independent carriers going on, and since
not only the apparatus, bub the air at some distance from it, is
heated m consequence of the collisions which must occur. Owing
to this, Id experiments with such a coil, a rise of temperature can
be distinctly observed only when the body connected to the coil is
very small. Gat with apparatus on a larve scale, even a body of
considerable bulk would t« heated, as, for instance, the body of a
person ; and I think that skilled physicians might moke obeerva-
tions of utility in such experiments, which, if the apparatus were
judiciously designed, would not present the slightest danger.
A question of some interest, principally to meteorologists,
presents itself here. How does the earth behave! The earth Is
an air condenser, but is tt a perfect or H very imperfect one — a
mere sink of energy f There can be little doubt that to any small
disturbance, as might be caused in an experiment, the earth
behaves as an almost perfect condenser. But it might be different
when lbs charge is set in vibrablon byiiSDme sudt^n disturbanoe
occurring in the heavens. In such case, as t>efore stated, probably
FiO( 28. — Lamp^with Auxiliary'Bulb, Confining Action to Centre.
only little of the energy of the vibrations set up would be lost into
space in form of long ether radiations ; but most of the energy, I
think, woold spend itself in molecular impacts and collisions, and
pass o9' into space in the form of short beat, and possibly light,
waves. As both the frequency of the vibration of toe charge and
the potential are in all probability excessive, the ener^ converted
into heat may be considerable. Since the density must be unevenly
distributed, either in consequence of the irregularity of the earth s
surface, or on account of the condition of the atmosphere on
various places, the effect produced would accordingly vary from
place to place. Considerable variations in the temperature and
pressure of the atmosphere may in this manner be caused at any
point of the surface of the earth. The variations may be graduu
or very sudden, according to the nature of the original disturb*
ance, and may produce rain and storms, or local^ modify the
weather in any way.
From the remarks before made one may see what an Impor-
tant factor of loss the air in the neighbourhood of a charged
surface becomes when the electric density is great and the
frequency of the impulses excessive. But the action as explained
implies that the air is insulating — that is, that it is composed of
independent carriers immersed in an insulating medium, This ia
the case only when the air is at something like ordinary or greater,
or at extremely small, pressure. When the air is sliKhtly rarefied
and conducting, then true conduction lossee occur luso. In such
case, of course, considerable energy may be dissipated into space
even with a steady potential, or with impulses of low frequency,
it the density is very greab. When the gas is ab very low pressure,
an electrode is heated more, because higher speeds can be reached.
If the gas around the electrode is strongly compressed, the dls-
Clements, and consequently the speeds, are very small, and the
ting is intjgnifioant. But if in each case the frequeiMj oonld
fi88
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 10, 1892.
be Bufficieatly increaoad, tbc electrode would be brought to a hieh
temperature as well as if the gas ware at very low pressure ; in
tact, exb»U8tiD|{ the bulb is only necessary because wa cannot
produce (Bud possibly not convey) currents of the required
ireqnenc;.
Ketnming U> the subject of electrode lamps, it is obviously of
advaatage in BDch n lamp to confine as much as possible the neat
to the electrode by preventinf^ the circulation of the gas iu the
bulb. If a very small bulb be taken, it would coDfioe the heat
better than a larjre one, but it might not be oE suiGcienb capacity
to be operated from the coil, or, if so, the glass might get too hot.
A simple way to improve in this direction is to employ a globe of
the requirc-d size, but to place a small bulb, the diameter of which
is properly estimated, over the refractory button contained in the
Klobe. This arrangement is illu»<trated in Fig. 28. Tlio globe, L,
has in this case a large neck, ?i, allowing the small bulb, h, to slip
through. Otherwise the construction is the same as shown in
Fig. IR, for example. The small bulb is conveniently supported
upon the stem, s. carrying the refractory button , in. It is se))arated
from the aluminium tube, a, by several layers oF mica. M, in order
to prevent the cracking of the neck by the rB[)id healing of the
aluminium tube upon a sudden turning on of the current. The
inside bulb should tie as small as possible when it is ilosired to
obtain light only by incandescence of the electrode. If it is
desired to uroduco phosphorescence, the bulb should be larger,
else it would be apt to get too hot. and the phosphorescence would
cease. In this arrangement usually cnly the small bulb shows
and beautiful effects were obtained. Instead of taking the
bulb large, in order to avoid undue heating, it answers the
purpose to make the electrode, tn, latver. In this case the bom-
bardment is weakened by rousoii of the smaller electric density
Fid. 29. — Lamp with Independent Auxiliary Bulb.
Many bulbs were constructed on the plan illustrated in
Fif(. 29. Here a small bulb, li, containing the refractory button,
ffl, upon being eihausted to a very high degree, was sealed in a
IaHCB globe, L, which was then moderately exhausted and sealed
off. The principal advantage of this construction was that it
allowed to reach extremely high vacua, and, at the same time
DM a large bulb. It was found, in the course of experiences with
bulbs Bucn as illustrated in Fig. 20, that it was well to make the
stem, s, near the seal at e very thick, and the leading in wire, w,
thin, as it occurred sometimes that the stem at t was heated and
the bulb was cracked. Often the outer globe, h, was eihausted
only just enough to allow the discharge to pase through, and the
sntce between the bulbs appeared crimson, producing a curious
weot. In some cases, when the exhaustion in globe, L, was
very low, and the air good conducting, it was found neceesary.
Id order to bring the button, ni, to high incandescence, to place,
preferably on the upper part of the neck of the gloljo, a tinfoil
coating which was connected to an insulated body to the ground,
or to the other terminal of the coil, as the highly -conducting
air weakened the effect somewhat, probably by being acted upon
Inductively from the wire, i<>, where it entered the bulb at t.
Another difEeoIty— which, however, is always present when the
refractory button is mounted in a very small bulb— existed in
the construction illustrated in Fig. 29— namely, the vacuum in the
bulb, b, would be impaired in a comparatively short time. The
chief Idea in the two last-deecribed constructions was to confine
beating of the Inside bulb, and slow evaporation of the glass, the
vacuum is hard to maintain, even if the construction illustrated
Id Fig. 28 be chosen, in which both bolbs communicate.
Bub bf far the hotter way— the ide^l way— would be to reach
soffioieotly high frequencies. The higher the frequency tbe
slower would t>B the exchange of the air, and I think that a fre-
quency may be reached at which there would be no eiohuive
whatever of the air molecules around the terminal. We would
then produce a Same in which there would be do oarrying away
of material, and a queer flame it would be, for it woula be rigid 1
With such high tretiuencies the inertia of the particles would
come into i>lay. As the brush, or flame, would gain rigidity in
virtue of the inertia of the particles, the exchange of the latter
would be prevented. This would necessarily occur, for, the
number of impulses being augmented, the potential euei^
of each would diminish, so that finally only atomic vibration*
could be set up, and the motion of translation through measur-
able space would cease. Thus an ordinary gas burner connected
to a source of rapidly alternating potential might have it«
efficiency augmented to a certain limit, and this for two reaaons—
because of t£e additional vibration imparted, and because of a
slowing down of the process of carrving off. But the renewal
being rendered dilbcult, and renewal being neceesary to maintain
the burner, a continuud increase of the frequency of the impulse*,
assuming they could be transmitted to and impressed upon the
Uame, would result in the " extinction " of the latter, meaoiog
Ijy this term only the cessation o( the chemical proceaa. I think,
however, tliat in the case of an eleotrodo immersed in a fluid
insulating medium, and surrounded by indejiendent oarriers jot
electric charges, which can be uct«d ui>on inductively, a eulficlantly
higii frequency of the imimlses would probably result in a gravita-
tion of the u'as all around towards the electrode. For this it woali
bo only necessary to onsunio that the independent bodies ate
irregularly sha(>ed. They would thon turn towards the elactroda
their i^ide of the greatest electric density, and this would be a
position in which the fluid resistance to approodi would be Boiallar
than that offered to the receding.
The general opinion, I do not donbt, is that it Is out of
question to reach any such frequencies as might — asanming sonw
of the views before expressed to be true — produce any of tbe
i-esulte which I have pointed out as mere poHaibilitiaa. Tbia may
be so, but in the course of these invettigatioiu, from tits observa-
tion of many phenomena I have gained the oonviction that tbese
frequencies would be much lower than one is a[it to eabiinata at
tirst. In a flame we set up ligbt-vibrationaby oauaing DMriaeulea,
or atoms, to collide. But what is the ratio of Uie beqoeoojr of
the collisions and that of the vibratious set up t Certainlj it must
bo incomparably smaller than that of the knotto of tiie bell and
the sound- vibrations, or that of the discharees and the oacdUatioDt
□f the condenser. We may cause the molscniss of Uie gaa to
collide by the use of alternate electric impulses of bigb twvfaioaey,
and so we may imitate tbe process in a floue; aaa from ezpari>
ments with frequencies which we are now able to obtain, I think
that the result is producible with impulses wbioh are tianamiasible
through a conductor. In connection with thought* <rf a ainailar
nature, it appeared to me of great intereet to demooatrate the
rigidityof a vibrating gaseous column. Although with socb low fre-
cjuenctes OS, say, 1(1,000 per second, which I was able to obtain wilb-
out difficulty from a specially constructed altemator, the task
looked discouraging at first, I made a series of experinMBte. The
trials with air at ordinary pressure led to no result, but wUh air
moderately rarefied I obtained what I think to be ao nmietak-
able experimental evidence of the property son^t for. As a
result of this kind might lead able investigator* to oooclneions
of importance, I will describe one of the experiment* performed.
'' ' well known that when a tube is sliKhUy asbansled tbe di«-
athinluBi
in Inndnous Uirewl.
coil operated as usual, this thread is inert. _. _.
approached to it, the part near the same is attracted or repelled,
according to the direction of the lines of force of the magnet. It
ooourred to me that if such a thread would be produced with
currents of very high frequency, it should be more or lesa rigid,
and as it was visible it could be easily studied. Accordingly, I
prepared a tube about lin. in diameter and one metre long, with
outside coating at each end. The tube was exhausted to a point
at which by a little working the thread discharge could be
obtained. It must he remarked here that tbe general aspect of
the tube, and the degree of exhaustion, ore quite different than
when ordinary low-frequency current* ore used. As it was found
preferable to work with one terminal, the tube prepared was
suspended from the end of a wire connected to the terminal, the
tinfoil coating being connected to the wire, and to the tower
coating sometimes a small insulalod plate was attached. When
the thread was formed it extended through the upper part of the
tube and loet itself in the lower end. If it possesseii rigidity it
resembled, not exactly an elastic cord stretched tight between two
supports, but a cord suspended from a height with a small weight
attached on the end. ^^l1en the finger or a m^net was approached
to the upper end of the luminous thread, it could be brought
locally out of position by electrostatic or magnetic action, and
when the disturoing object was very (juickly removed an analogous
result was produced, as though a HusiieRded cord would be dis-
placed and quickly released near the pointof suspension. In doii^
this the luminous thread was set in vibration, and two very sharply
marked nodes, and a third indistinct oue, were formed. TIm
vibration, once set up, continued for fully eight minutes, dying
groduoUy out- The speed of the vibration often varied per-
ceptibly, and it could be observed that the electrostatic attntctieo
of the glass affected the vibrating thread ; but it was clear that
the electrostatic action was not the cause of the vibration, for the
thread was meet generally stationary, and could iilways be sot In
vibration by passing the nnger quickly near the upper |nrt of tbe
tabe. With a ma^M tbe thread oould be split in two and both
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 10, 1892.
569
![uickened ; alto, u f ar ae I could see, by raising the potential ot
requency. Thus, either mcreasini; tha fceqneucy or iiaeaine a
Htmnger diacharge of the same frequency coireapondad to a Cight-
eniug of the cord. I did not obtain sjiy aiperimental evidi
with coDdanwr dischargea. A luminous band eicit«d in a bulb
by rapeatod discboi^es of a Leyden jar mast posBBSs rigidity, and
if deformed and suddenly releasod should vibrate. But probably
the amount of vibrating matter ie ho email that in apibe of the
extreme speed the inertia cannot prominently Msert JtaeU.
Beaidee, tbe obBervation in such a case in rendered extremely
difficult on account of tbe fundamental vibration.
Tbe demonBtratiOQ of tbe fact — which still needs better experi-
mental confirmation — that a vibrating gaaeous columu poasewee
rigidity, might greatly modify the views of thinkerB, When
with low frequenciea and insignificant potentials indications
of that property may be noted, how must a g-oeeous medium
behave under the influence of enormous electrostatic streases
which may be active in tbe interstellar apace, and whieh may
alternate with inconceivable rapidity T The existence of auch an
electrostatic, rhythmically liirobbiDg force— of a vibrating electro-
static field — would show a posaible way how solids might have
formed from the ultra-gaseous uterus, and how transverse and all
kinds of I'ibrations may be transmitted through a gaseous medium
filling all apace. Then ether might be a. true fluid, devoid of
rigidity, and at rest, it being merely necessary aa a connecting
link to enable interaction. \VhBt determines the ri|;idity of a
body! It most be the speed and tbe amount of moving matter.
In B goe the epeed may be oonaiderabls, but the density is exceed-
ingly small : in a liquid the speed would be likely to be small,
though the density may be conaiderable : and in both cases the
ioertui reaistaDce ofTered to displaoement is practically nil. But
place a gaseous (or liquid) column in au intense, rapidly- alter-
nating electrostatic field, set the particles vibrating with enormous
apeads, then the inertia resistance asserts itself, A body might
move with more or leaa freedom through the vibrating mass, bat as
a whole it would be rigid.
There ia a subject which I must mention in connection with
these experiments: it is that of high vacua. This is aaubjeot
the study of which is not only interesting, but useful, for it may
lead to reaults of gi'eat practical importance. In commercial
apparatus, such as mcandescent lamps, operated from ordinary
systems of distribution, a much higher vacuum than presently
obtainad would not secure a very Kreat advantace. In auch a
ease the work ia performed on the filament and the gas is little
concerned ; the improvement, therefore, would be but trifling.
But when we begin to use very high frequenciea and petentiaG,
the action of tbe gas becomes all- important, and the degree of
exhaustion materially modifies tbe results. As long as ordinary
ooils, even very large ones, were used, the study of the subject was
limited, because just at a point when it became most interesting
it had bo be interrupted on account of the " non-striking " vacuum
being reached. But presently we are able to obtain from a email
disruptive discharge ooil potentials much higher than even tbe
largest coil was capable of giving, and, what is more, we can make
the note ntial alteniste with great rapidity, Both of these results
M A Inmiiwiu dlsookrge throngh moat any
a note ntii
■bla u D
vacua obtainable, and the field of our investigations is greatly
extended. Think we ae we may of all the possible directions
to develop B practical illuminant, the line of nigh vacua leeme
to be the most promising at present. Bat to reach extreme
vacua the appliances must be much more improved, and ulti-
mate perfection will not be attained until wa shall have dis.
carded the mechanical and perfected on electrical vacuum pump.
Molecules and atoms can be thrown out of a bulb onder the
action of an enormous potential ; this will be the principle
of the vacuum pump of the future. For the piesent wa mueC
secure the beat results we can with mechanical appliances. In
this respect it might not be out of the way to say a tew words
about the method of, and apparatus for, producing excessively
high degrees of exhaustion, of which I have availed myself in the
course of these investigations. It is very probable that other
experimenters have used similar arrangements ; but as it is
possible that there may be an item of interest in their description,
a few remarks which will render this investigation more complet*
might be permitted. The apparatus is illustrated in a drawing
show in Fig. 30. S represents a Sprengel pump, which has been
specially constructed to better suit the work required. The stop-
cock which is usually employed has been omitted, and instead of
it a hollow stopper, «, has been fitted in the neck of tbe reservoir,
R, This stopper has a small hole, h, through which the mercury
descends ; the aizo of the outlet, o, being properly determined with
respect to the section of the fall tube, t, which is sealed to the
reservoir instead of being connected to it in the naual manner.
This arrangement overcomes the imperfections and troubles which
often arise from the use ot the stop-cock on the reservoir
and tbe connection of the latter with tbe fall tube. Tbe
pump is connected through a U-shaped ttibe, I, to a very large
reservoir, Gi. Especial core was taken in fitting the grinding
surfaces of the stoppers, p and pi, and both of these and the
mercury caps above them were made exceptionally long. After
the U-shaped tube was fitted and put in place, it was heated, so
OS to soften aud take off the strain resulting from imperfect fitting.
The U-shapod tube was provided with a stop-cock. C, and two
ground connections, g and (/.—on* for a small bulb, b, usually
containing caustic potash, and the otber tor the receiver, r, to be
exhausted. The reservoir R| was connected by means of a rubber
tube to a slightly larger reservoir, Bj^ aoch of the two reservoirs
being provided with a stopcock, Ci and C„ respectively. The
leservoir R, could be raised and lowered by a whe^ and rack, and
the range of its motion was so determined that when it was filled
with mercury and the stop-cock C, closed, so as to form a
Torricellian vacuum in it when raised, it could he lifted so high
that the mercury in reservoir Rj would stand a little above atop-
cock C| ; and when this atop-cock waa closed and the reservoir
Kj descended, so aa to form a Torricellian vacuum in reaervoir R|,
it could be lowered so far as to completely empty the latter, the
mercury filling the reservoir R, np to o little above atop-cock C^
The capacity of tbe pump and df tbe connections whs taken as
small OB possible relatively to the volume of reservoir hj, since, of
course, the degree of exhaustion depended upon the ratio of these
With this apparatus I combined the usual means indicated by
former experimenters fur the production of-very high vacua. In
moat of the experiments it was convenient to use caustic potash,
1 may venture to say, in regard to ita use, that much time ia aaved
'k tor many hours without reaching a very high \
The potash was heated either by a spirit lamp, or by passing a dis-
charge through it, or by passing a current thrtnigha wire contained
in it. The advantage in the latter case was that the heating oould
be more rapidly repeated. Generally the process of exhaustion was
tbe following : At tbe start, tho stop-cocks, C and C,, being open,
and all otber connections closed, the reservoir R, was raised so
far that the mercuiy filled the reservoir R,, and a part of the
narrow connecting U-shaped tube. When the pump woe set to
work the mercury would, of course, quickly rise in the tube, and
reservoir R, was lowered, the experimenter keeping the maroury at
about the same level. The reservoir R, was balsjiced by a long spring
which facilitated the operation, and the friction of the ports was
■" ■ ■ When the
was further
tenerally sufficient to Keep it almost in any position.
preogel pump hod done its work, the reservoir R,
lowered and the mercury descended in Ri and filled R^ where-
upon atop-cock Co was closed. The air adhering to the walls of
Ri and that absorbed by tbe mercury was carriM off, and to tres
Riand .^
the mercury of all atr the reservoir R, was for a long time
worked up and down. During this process some air, which would
-•--- ""olow stop-cock Cj, was aipelled from Rj by lowering it
igh and opening the stop-cock, closing tbe Utter
again before raising the reeerroir. When all the ftir hod b«en
expelled from the mercury, and no air would gather in R, when
:t -,.. lowered, tbe caustic potash was resorted to. The
R, was now again raised until the mercury in B| stood
above stop-cock Ci- The caustic potash was fused and boiled,
and the moisture partly carried olT by the pump and partly
reabsorbed ; and this process of heating and cooling was repeated
many times, and each time, upon the moisture bi>ing absorMd or
carried off, the reservoir R, was for a long time raised and
lowered. In this manner all the moisture was carried off from
the mercury, and both the reservoirs were in proper condition to
be need. The reservoir R, was then again raised to tbe top, and
the pump was kept working for a long time.
(re be amtmatd,)
570
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 10, 1892.
ELECTRO-M ETALLURGY .•
BY JO.SKPK \V[LSON SWAN, M.A.
This is not tlie first time a lecture h&B been delivered here on
deetro-metAiluigy. I titid that ea lonK ago aa -Titnaary, 1S4I,
there wu n lecture on the lubject by Mr. Brand. At, that time
electro- metnllurgy was very new and very Email. It confitgted
solely of electroplating and electrotyjie. ElcctroplatinB liod
already begun to be practised us a re^lar industry, but it
was Btill a (|ueRtion whether the new kind of plating waa good,
and there weie not n few fllversmithei who would not offer electro-
plate for *ale bocauae of ii« BU|i|X)Bed inferiority to plate ol the
old style. That question boa long been definitely settled by the
fact that every wetk more than a ton of ailvei is depoaited
in the form of electroplate. Electrotype in 1M41 was not bo far
advanced— it had not then been taken hold of by the ortinan and
nnnufacturer— it noa etill in the hands of tbeaniat«ur. Looking
at the matter after the event, it seems as though electrotype ought
to have been discovered at least two years earlier tlian it wbb, for
Uuniell'a batt«ry waa diacovered in 1838, and it oppears, from an
ikfter-t he-oven t point of view, that from that moment electrotype
woa a perfectly obvious thing. But there it lay, for more than
two yeoTB, a palpable streak of gold in a vein tnat, croHsing tho
beaten track, and that had been washed bare by recent rains,
the wonder is it was not obaervod and worked by noma of the
earlier passers -by.
In the sumo year that Daniell's battery was discovered |in 1836)
I>e la Rue published the following abservation : "The copper
plate is also covered with u coating of inetnllic copper, which
is continually being deposited ; and so )>erfect is the sheet of
hus lorined, that, being strijiped olT, it has the counter-
Bvery scratch of the plate on which it IB deposited." De
' I, had reco^ised that it contained
, work it. Two years later Jacobi,
upon it at dilTerent points, naw its
n way commenced tho working; that
e of much more than electrotyjie.
I the utilisation of a preiioas discovery
' " ' "' J and electro-gilding, for a.i
le fact that he had succeeded
la Rue hod struck the
precious metal, but did
Spencer, and Jordan ca
value, and each in his
e\entually becnmc Tirodu
A aimilar tardi
occurred in the case of electropla
early as IS05 B rug nat«lli published
n perfectly gilding I
r meiiaU by
s of the electric
Voltaic battery was the cheapest source of electric current, electro-
metallurgy was necessarily restricted to artistic metal work, or to
those applicatioiiB where the fine quality of the electrotype cast out-
weighed the consideration of its cost, or where only a thin film of
meMi waa retjuired tor the protection of a baser metal from the
action of the air. Within this limited field, the electro-de|)osition
of copper, of gold, of silver, of iron, aod of nickel, has been
carried on commercially with very great success and advantage
for almost the whole period of the existence of the art But
beyond these bounds, set by llie limitation of cost, it could not pass.
Now all this is changed — since engineer and electrician have
united their eltbrts to push t<i the utmost the practical effect of
Faraday's great discovery of ttie principle of generating electric
currents by motive power. The outcome is the modern dynamo,
with its renult— cheaii electricity. The same cause that has led to
electric lighting, and to the electric transmission of power, has
also led lo a very great development of elect ro-metallurgic
industry, and not only in the old directions but in new. It is no
longer a matter of depositing ounces or nounds of metal, but of
Ions and thousands of tons. And it is no longer with metal deposi-
tion merely that electro- metallurgy now de^ls, but also with the
eitraction of metAl from their ores, and the fusion anil welding of
metals. Electro- metal Inrgy has, in fact, so grown that now it is
impossible t-o treat it in a complete manner in a single hour.
One of the latest developments is electric welding. This, in
one of its forms— that invented by Elihu Thomson — has recently
boon so thoroughly explained and domonstratod by Sir Frederick
Bramwelt, that it is not necessary for mo to do more than mention
it as belonging to the subject. There is also another speciee of
electric welding — that of Dr. Benardos, in which the electric arc
is used, after the manner of a blow-pipe fiamo, to obtain tho welding
of such forms and thicbnosscs of iron, steel, and other metals as
would be dithcult or impossible to weld in any other way ; and not
only is the electric blow. pipe used for welding, but also for the
repair of defects in steel and iron castings by the fusion of pieces
of metal of the same kind as the casting into the faulty place,
so as to make it complexly sound. Tbis now kind of electric
welding as improved by Mr. Howard is now of eufficioot im-
portance to entitle it to the full occupation of an evening. 1
theiefore propose to leave it for detailed description to some other
lecturer, and content myself with calling your attention to the
interesting collection of specimens on the table and in the library
(lent by Messrs. Llojd and Lloyd) showing the results of this
process. E^en witli this curtailment, the extent of the tiold is
still too great, and I must reduce it further by omitting a con-
siderable section of that portion which relates to the extraction of
metals from their ores, and in this connection only speak of the
But, in the first place, I am going to speak of the deposition of
copper, and you will pardon me if I treat it as it you were unac-
quainted with the subject. One of the wonderful things about
the electro-deposition of ooptier, and, in fact, any other metal
deposited from a solution of its salt in wat«r, is that bright.
hard, solid metal, such aa we are accustomed to see produced
by means of fusion, can by the action of the electric current
be made to separate from a liquid which has no appearance
of metal about it. The beginning of every electro-deposition
process iB the making a eolutinn of the metal to be deposited, f
am going to dissolve a piece of copper, the most elementary of all
chemical operations, but 1 want to make it quite clear where tbe
metal lo be deposited comes from, to show that it is actually in
the solution, ami actually comas out of it again, for that is an
etfect so surprising that it re<:[uires both imagination and domon-
'.ion to make it evident. [Expti-imftil.] There is projected on
icreen a gloss cell containing nitric acid. Mr. Lennox w^U put
it a piece of copper. He has done so. It ijuickly disappears,
a blue solution of copper nitrate is formed. Now, if 1 pass an
-ric current through this solution, or through some solulion of
ume kind, which, to tave time, has been prepared beforehand,
immerse in it, a little agiart from each other—the positive
and negative wires coming from some generator of electric
current— this will happen: metallic copper will t^ome out of the
solution, and attach itself as a coating to the negative wire, and
conseiiuently that wire will grow in thickness. At the other
wire — the positive— exactly the reverse action will take place.
There, if the positive wire be copper, it will gradually dissolve
and become thinner. Tho iguantity of metal deposited on the
negative wire will almost eiactly equal tho quantity dissolved
from the positive, and therefore the solution will contain the same
quantity of metnl at the end of the experiment as at first, but it
will not|be the same metal ; it will bo fresh metal dissolved from the
positive wire, and the metal originally contained in tho solution
will baro been deposited aa metallic copper. [EarperimeiU ■] 1 will
show on the screen this process in operation. Here are the two
wires I spoke of. Tho electric circuit, which inclades these two
wires, is so arranged that on its completion the thick wire will be
the insitii'e and the thin wire the n^ative. Now please complete
the circuit. One wire (the [lositive) is carrying an electric current
into the oopiier solution, and the olbor (the negative) is carrying
the current away. The solution is conveying tbe current between
the wires, and one of the incidents of the transport of current
from wire to wire by the eolation is electro-chemical decompoei.
tion, or electrolysis ; and the result of that is, the depoaition. out
of the solution, of copper uiion one wire, and tho dissolving away,
or entering intn solution, of copper from the other. Now it can
clearly be seen that the wire that was thick is now thin, and the
wire tliat waa thin is now thick.
Imagine the growing wire to be an electrotype mould, and that
the deposit of copper which formed on the wire has spread over the
surface, and formed a nearly uniform film, and that by continuing
the nrocese it has became thick, that deposit, stripped from the
mould, ivould bean eloctrotyije. Or imagine the negative wire t« boa
thin sheet of pure copper, and the positive wire to be a thick sheet
nf impure copper, and suppose the action carried on so far that
the thin sheet has become thick, by the deposition of copper upon it
from the solution, and tho thick one tliin, by its copper entering
into solution, that case would represent tbe condition of things in
electrolytic copper refining. Allow your imagination to take one
more short flight, and Bupr>ose that this is not a solution of copper,
butoneof silver, and that the growing wire is atespot to be silvered,
and further suppose that the dissoliing electrode is silver, and
you will then understand the principle of electroplating. It
re(|uires very little explanation to make the ordinary arrange-
ment of electrotyping intelligible. Here is a trough containing
sulphate of coii|«r solution. Hero is a mould that through the
kindness of ^lessrs. Elkington has been prepared for me. This is
connected with the negative pole of a battery, and here is a plate
of copper connected with the positive pole. When I immerse the
mould in the solution— at about 2in. from the copper plate— the
electrical circuit is completed, and the same electrolytic action
that tbe e.iporiment illustrated will t-ake place. Copper will be
deposited on the mould, and will be dissolved in equal (quantity
from the copper plate, and the supply of copper in the solution
will thus be Kept up. As it will take a little time to obtain the
result 1 wish to show, I will put this aside for 10 minutes or ao,
and [irocced to speak of different applications of this principle of
copper deposition.
For tbe reproduction of line works of art in metal, electrotype it
unapproachable. The extreme minuteness with which every
touch of graver or modelling tool is copied by the deposited metal
film, separates electrotvpo by a wide sjiace from oil other modes
of casting. Even tho l)aguerreotypo image is not tou extiuisitely
fine for electrotype to copy it so perfectly, that the picture ■•
almost as vivid in tho cast as in the originaL It is this quality
that has gii'On to electrotypoa rSU which no other procORs can fill,
and, H) far, its practical utility in not greatly dependent of the
cost of the current. This applies to all those most beantiful
things here and in the library, lent by Messrs. Elkington and Mr.
Best. These could all have been produced commereially even if
there had been nothing better for the generation of the current
than Sroee's battery— a very good battery, by the way, for small
operations in copper depoaition. It gives a very low E.M.F., and
that is a defect, but in copper deposition the half volt or ao Is
generally suflicient to produce automatically the required
current density. One of the uses of electrotype, not greatly
affected by the cost of deposition, is that of the multiplication «
printing surfaces. In these days of illustrated periodicalB, electro-
typo has come more and more into use for makmg duplicate blockt
from woo-l engravings, which would soon bo worn out and uaeleas
if printed from direct. It is also employed to make casts from
set-up type, to be used instead of ordinary stereotype casts, wbeq
long numbers of a book have to be printed ; also as a tae«ne of
cDji^g engraved copper plates. Here are example* of all tbtm
THE ULECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 10, 1892.
571
usee of the electrotype process. The electro-blocks are lent by
Messrs. Richardson and Co., and the copper plates by the Director-
General of the Ordnance Survey Office, Soatnampton. The plates
illustrate the method employed at Southampton in the Map
Printing Department. The original plates are not printed from,
except to take proofs. The published maps are all printed from
electrotypes. Here is an original plate— here the matrix, or first
electro, with, of course, all the lines raised, which are sunk in the
original. The second electro is, like the original, an intaglio.
Here is a print from it, and here one from the original plate.
Practically they are indistinguishable from each other, and bear
eloquent testimony to the wonderful power of electrotype to
transmit an exceealngly faithful copy of such a surface.
Nickel has of late years come into extensive use for what is
termed nickel-plating, as applied to polished steel and brass.
Nickel not only has the advantage over silver of cheapness, but
also in some circumstances of greater resistance to the action of
the air.
Another metal usually deposited in the form of a coating is iron.
The electrolytic deposit of iron is peculiarly hard, so much so that
it is commonly, but erroneously, spoken of as steel-facing. The
deposition of a film of iron upon engraved copper plates, as a
means of preventing the wear incidental to their use in being
printed from, has become almost universal. Valuable etchings,
mezzo-tints, and photogravure plates are thus made to bear a
thousand or more impressions without injury. By dissolving off
the iron veil with weak acid when the first signs of wear appear
on the surface of the plate, and recoating it with iron, an engraved
copper plate is, for all practical purposes, everlasting. In this
case, of course, the film of iron is extremely thin — one or two
hundred-thousandths of an inch. But it is possible to produce any
of the metals commonly used as coatings in a more massive form.
Here, for example, is an iron rod ^in. in diameter entirely formed
by electrolytic deposition. I am indebted to Mr. Roberts- Austen
for being able to show this, and also for this other example of a
solid deposit of iron, and for this beautiful specimen of electro-
lytic coating with iron. Here also are solid aeposits of silver —
this drinking-cup is a solid silver electro-deposit.
These are all departments of electro-metallurgy which would
have maintained a perfectly healthy industrial existence and
growth without the dynamo ; but now I come to speak of a
branch of the subject — electrolytic copper refining — which, with-
out that source of cheap electricity, could not have existed.
This is the most extensive of all the applications of electro-
chemistry, and is rendering valuable assistance to electrical
engineering by the improvement it has led to in the conductivity
of copper wire. One of the results of this is seen in the raising
of the commercial standard of electrical conductivity. Ten years
ago, contracts for copper wire for telegraphy stipulated for a
minimum conductivity of 95 per cent, of Matthiessen's standard
of pure copper. Now, chiefly owing to electrolytic refining, a
conductivity of 100 per cent, is demanded by the buyer, and con-
ceded by the manufacturer.
To show the difference between the past and present state of
things in relation to the commercial conauctivity of copper, I am
going to exhibit on the screen measurements of the resistance of
six pieces of wire of equal length and equal cross-section — they
have been drawn through the same draw-plate. Three of the
pieces are new, and three are old. The three new pieces are made
from electrolytic copper, and are representative of the present
state of things. The three old pieces are taken from three well-
known old submarine telegraph cables, and they show how very
bad the copper was when it was first employed for telegraphic
Surposes, and how great has been the improvement. I wul take
[o. 1 wire as the sUtndard of comparison. It is a piece of the
wire about to be supplied to the Post Office Telegraph Department
for trunk telephone lines. It will show the very high standard of
conductivity that has been reached in the copper of commerce.
I am indebted for it, and for two out of three of the old cable
wires, to Mr. Preece. No. 2 wire is made from electrolytic copper
deposited in my own laboratory. No. 3 is also electrolytic copper,
but such as is commercially produced in electrolytic copper
refining. It has been supplied to me by Mr. Bolton, to whom I am
also indebted for wire No. 6 — a particularly interesting specimen :
it is from the first transatlantic cable — the cable of 1858. No. 4
wire is from the Ostend cable of 1860, and No. 5 wire is from the
old Dutch cable. These wires are so arranged that I can send a small
and constant current partly through any one of them, and partly
through a galvanometer. When this is done the result will be a
deflection of the spot of light on the scale from the zero point to an
extent corresponding to the resistance of the particular wire in
the circuit. The worse the wire is the greater will be the deflection.
We will begin with the Post Office sample first. I connect the
galvanometer terminals to wire No. 1 —you see there is a deflection
of lOdeg. I will now shift the contacts to wire No. 2 — exactly the
same length of wire is included — but now, you see, there is a
deflection of slightly less than lOdeg., showing that this wire has
a little lower resistance than No. 1. The difference is very small —
it may be 2 per cent., and 2 per cent less of it would be reauired
to conduct as well as the No. 1 wire. The next is No. 3 — this is Mr.
Bolton's wire, and shows a resistance almost equal to the last.
Nos. 1, 2, and 3 are, therefore, nearly alike, and have a degree of
conductivity almost as high as it can possibly be.
Now we come to the three old wires. We will take No. 4— the
Ostend cable. There, you see, is a great difference. Instead of the
spot of light being on the lOth degree, it is upon the 11th. We will
now try No. 5— the Dutch cable. That drives the index to 17. Now
I change to No. 6 -the old AtHntic cable — and we have a deflection
of no less than 25deg. I suppose we may assume that this wire
fairly repreeente the commercial conductivity of copper in 1958^
for it is highly probable that for a work so important as the first
Atlantic cable every care would be taken in the selection of the
copper. The result of this experiment shows that the copper of
that cable was extremely bad as a conductor — that, in fact, it is 150
per cent, worse than the best commercial copper of to-day. In
other words, it shows that in point of eleotricaa conductivity one
ton of copper of to-day will go as far as 2^ tons of such copper as
was used for the cable of 1858. The change is largely due to elec-
trolytic copper refining.
The process of electrolytic copper refining is the same in prin-
ciple as that which produced the thickening of one of the wires
and the thinning of the other in my first experiment. To prepare
the crude copper for the refining process it is cast into slabs ; tnese
form the anodes, and correspond to the wire which in my experi-
ment became thin. The cathodes, corresponding to the wire
which became thick, are formed of thin plates of pure copper.
Here are plates such as are used in electrolytic copper renning
works. They are portions of actual cathodes and anodes, ana
represent the state of things at the commencement and at the end
of the depositing operation, an operation that takes several weeks
to complete, and eflect the great change these plates show. In
copper-refining works, an immense number of these plates, each
havmg six to ten square feet of superficial area, are operated upon
together, in agreatnumberof large wooden vats, containing sulphate
of copper solution and a small proportion of sulphuric acid. Electric
current from a dynamo, driven by a steam engine or water power,
is conveyed, by massive copper conductors, to the vats, arranged
in long lines of 50 or 100 or more in series. Thick copper bars
connect adjoining vats, and provide a positive and negative bar
for each vat. The plates hang from these, in the solution, opposite
each other, 2in. or 3in. apart. During the process, the impure
slabs dissolve, and at the same time pure copper is depositea out
of the solution upon the thin plates. The deposition and dissolv-
ing go on slowly, in some cases very slowly, for a slow action takes
less power, and gives purer copper than a more rapid one. The
usual rate is from one to ten amperes per square foot of cathode
surface. You will better realise what tnese rates of deposit mean,
when I say that one ampere per square foot rate of deposition gives
for each foot of cathode surface nearly loz. of copper in 24 hours,
and a thickness of one-eight hundredth of an incn ; and therefore
the production of one ton of copper, at that rate, in 24 hours would
require a cathode surface in the vats, in round numbers, of 36^000
square feet. At the higher rate of 10 amperes per square foot,
which is used where coal is cheap, one-tenth of this area would
be required.
The importance of the electrolytic copper refining industry, and
the extent of the plant connected with it, may be inferred from
the fact that, reckoning the united production of all the electro-
lytic copper works in the world, nearly one ton of copper is
deposited every quarter of an hour. Very little power is required
for copper deposition if the extent of the dissolving and depositing
surfaces is large, relatively to the quantity of copper deposited in
a given time. Some of the impurities ordinarily found in crude
copper are valuable. Silver and gold are common impurities, and
these and some other impurities do not enter into solution, but fall
down as black mud, are recovered, and go to diminish the cost of
the process or increase the profit, and even those impurities which
enter into solution are under ordinary conditions almost com-
pletely separated.
Electrolytic copper refining is both an economical and an
effective process. The deposited copper is exceptionally pure. At
one time it was supposed that it must necessarily be quite pure,
but this is not the case ; other metals can be deposited witn the
copper, but it is not difficult to realise in practice a close approxi-
mation to absolute purity in the depositiad copper. Here is an
example of the deposition of a mixed metal — brass — that is, copper
and zinc depositea together, and there are in the library a number
of interesting specimens of mixed metal deposition. These deposits
of brass and other alloys show that more than one metal can be
deposited at the same time. The great enemy to conductivity in
copper is arsenic, and the deposition of arsenic as well as copper is
one of the things to be guarded against in electrolytic copper
refining. Not only are tne chemical characteristics of electro-
lytically -refined copper generally good, but its mechanical properties
are largely controllable. Usually, electrolytic copper is melted
down and cast into billets of the form required tor rolling and
wire drawing. This treatment not only involves cost, but the
copper is apt to imbibe impurity during fusion, though if
the process is carefully conducted the deterioration is sTi^ht*
But it is evident that the remelting of the deposited
copper is a thing to be avoided if possible, and the question
naturally arises why, now that deposition costs so little,
may not the beautiful principle which comes into play in electro-
type, and which enables the most complicated forms to be faith-
fully copied, be taken advantage to give to plainer and heavier
objects their ultimate form ? There are several reasons why this
idea is not more frec^uently acted upon. One is, that the process
of electrolytic deposition is slow ; another, that knowledge of the
conditions necessary for obtaining a deposit having the required
strength and other qualities is not very widespread. Moreover, m the
electrolytic deposition of copper, and indeed of all metids, there is
a strong tendency to roughness on the outside of the deposit, and
to excrescent growths, the removal of which involve waste of labour
and material. These tendencies can, to a very great extent, be
counteracted by careful manipulation, and the use of suitable solu-
tions, and they can also be counteracted by mechanical means.
This has been done by Mr. Elmora He remedies the faults I have
mentioned by causing a burnisher of agate (arranged after the
manner of the tool m a screw-cutting Lathe) to press upon and
traverse a revolving cylindrical surfaoe on which the deposit is
m
TH£ teLUCTHiCAL ENGINEER, JUNE 10, 189^.
taking place, and while it is immersed in the copper solution. The
result is that it is kept smooth and bright to the end of the process.
But the use of the burnisher is not the only means available for the
production of a smooth deposit. It was observed in the early days of
electroplating how great a change was effected in the character
of the metal deposited by the presence of a very small
quantity of certain impurities, it was found, for example,
that an exceedingly minute dose of bisulphide of carbon,
if put into a bath from which silver was being deposited,
caused the deposit to change from dull to bright. I have lately
had experience of a similar kind with nickel and with copper. I
was working with a hot solution of nickel, and up to a certain
point the deposit had the usual dead grey appearance. Suddenly,
and without doing anything more than putting in a new cathode,
I found the character of the deposit completely changed. Instead
of the grey, tough, adherent deposit, there was produced a brittle
specular deposit, which scaled off in brilliantly shining flakes of
metal. I sought for the cause of this extraordinary change, and on
a slight hint traced it to the accidental introduction into the
solution of a minute quantity of glue By adding gelatine to a
fresh nickel solution, I obtained the same pecuhar bright and
brittle deposit that had resulted from the accident. I then made
a similar addition to a solution of copper, and when I hit the rieht
Quantity — an exceedingly minute one—bright copper, instead of
dull, or crystalline, was deposited. Here are some specimens.
These weredepodited on a bright surface, and they are bright on both
sides. Not only is the copper made bright unaer the conditions
I have described, but if the proportion of the gelatine be carried
to the utmost that is consistent with the production of a bright
deposit, it becomes exceedingly hard ana brittle. Beyond tnis
pomt the deposit is partly bright and partly dead, the arrange-
ment of the patches of dead and bright being in some cases very
peculiar, ana suggestive of a strong conflict of opix>8ing forces.
Before I leave tne subject of copper deposition, I may mention
that I have found the range of current density within which it
is possible to obtain a deposit of reguline metal far wider than is
commonly supposed. The rate of deposition in copper refining is
usually very slow, and it is one of the drawbacks of the process,
since slow deposition necessitates large plant. But rapid depo-
sition necessitates a larger consumption oi power, and larger cost
on that account, and, therefore, there is a point beyond which it
is not good economy to go in the direction oi more rapid deposition.
Still there are cases where, if we had the power to deix)sit more
rapidly, itmi^htbe found useful to exercise it. The subject of more
rapid deposition is also interesting from a scientific point of view.
I therefore mention an unusual result I have arrived at in this
direction. Taking, as one extreme, the slow rate of deposit,
of one ampere per square foot of cathode— a rate not infreouent
in copper refining — I have found that the limit in the other airec-
tion IS not reach^ bv a rate of deposit one thousand times faster.
I have produced, ana I hope to be able to produce before you, a
perfectly good deposit of copper, with a current density of 1,000
amperes per square foot oi cathode. [Exj)eriment.] This cell
contains a solution of copper nitrate with a small proportion of
ammonium chloride. The plate on which I am going to produce
a deposit of copper has an exposed surface of 21 square inches.
Opposite, at a aistance of lin., is a plate of copper. When I
close the circuit, a current of 140 amperes is passing through the
solution. I continue this for just one minute. Now I wash it,
and remove the outer edge so as to detach the deposit, and, as you
see, I have a sheet of good copper — an electrotype. To have pro-
duced a deposit of this thickness at the ordinary rate used in
electrotyping operations would have occupied more than an
hour. In this experiment an extreme degree of rapidity
of deposition has been shown. I do not intend to suggest such
a rate as of practical value, but it is at least interesting, as
showing that the characteristic properties of copper are not less
perfectly developed when the atoms of metal have been piled up
one on the other at this extremely rapid rate than when there is
slower abrogation. I think it probable that a rate of deposit
intermediate between this rate and the usual one of about 10
amperes per square foot may frequently be useful, for no doubt the
slowness of the rate of deposit has often prevented electrotype
from being made use of, where, if the rate could have been increased
10 times, it might have been employed with advantage. Here are
some thick plates, deposited at the rate of 100 amperes per square
foot. They are as solid and as free from flaw as plates deposited
10 times more slowly.
^ I said that electrolytic copper refining owed its existence to the
discovery and improvement of the dynamo, and that other electro-
metallurgic industries had originated from the same cause. One
of these industries is the electrolytic production of aluminium.
When Deville produced aluminium by the action of sodium on
aluminium chloride exag&rerated expectations were entertained of
the great part it was about to play in metallurgy. It was very
soon founa that aluminium had not all the virtues that its too
sanguine friends had claimed for it ; but that it had a groat many
most valuable properties, and, given a certain degree of cheapness,
a number of useful applications could be found for it. Some of
these are suggested and shown by the various articles made of
aluminium, kindly lent by the Metal Reduction Syndicate, and
metallurgical research is rapidly extending our knowledge of its
importance in connection witti the improvement of steel castings,
and the production of bronzes and other alloys of extraordinary
strength. The cost of the aluminium produced by Deville's process
was too great to permit of its use on any large scale for these purposes.
After E^vy demonstrated, by the electrolytic extraction of potas-
sium and sodium, the power of the electric current to break down
the strong combination existing between the alkaline metals and
oxygen, it seemed natural to expect that aluminium would also be
reduced by the same means. But Davy did not succeed in pro-
ducing any appreciable quantity of aluminium by the electrolytio
method. Devule and Bunsen were more successful, but they did
not possess tha modern dynamo, that has made all the difference
between the small experimental results they achieved and the
industrial production of to-day, a production now so large that I
suppose every day it amounts to at least one ton, and has reenlted
in a very great reduction of the price of the metaL
There are two electrolytic processes at work. One is the Hall
process — employed at Pittsburg, and at Patricroft, Mancheeter —
and now in experimental operation here. The other, the Herault
g recess, worked at Neuhausen, is not greatly different from the
[all process— the shape of the furnace or crucible is different, aad
the composition of the bath yielding the aluminium maj be
different, but in all essentials these two proceesee are one and the
same. They depend on the electrolysis of a fused bath, composed
of cryolite, aluminium fluoride, fluorspar, and alumina. In the
Hall process this mixture is contained in a carbon-lined iron
crucible— the cathode in an electric circuit, and between which
and the anode, a stick of carbon immersed in the fused baUi, a
difference of potential of 10 volts is maintained. In carrying out
the process on a manufacturing scale, there are many of
these sticks of carbon to each bath. Here in our experimental
furnace there is only one. The heat developed by the passing
of so large a current as we are using (180 amperes) tnron^n
an electrolyte of but a few inches area in cross-section, is
sufficient to melt and keep red hot the fluorides in which the
alumina is dissolved. The electrolytic action results in the
separation of aluminium from oxygen. The metal settlee to
the bottom of the pot, and is tapjMd or ladled out from time
to time as it accumulates. The oxygen goes to the carbon
cvlinder, and bums it away at about the same rate as that at which
aluminium is produced. It is only necessanr to keep up the
supply of alumina to enable the operation to be continued fer a
long time— I mean, of course, in addition to the keeping up of the
current and the supply of carbon at the anode.
By far thegreater partof tiie cost of aluminium obtained by electro-
lysis is the cost of motive power— 20 horse-power hours are expended
to produce lib. of aluminum. Therefore it is essential for the cheap
production of aluminium to have cheap motive power. There 18
one feature about the Neuhausen production of aluminium which
is very striking, and that is the generation of the electric current
by meand of water power deriveafrom a portion of the Falls of the
Rhine at Schaffhausen. The motive for making use of water
power is economy. But apart from that, it is interesting
to see water replacing coal, not only in the production of power,
but also in the production of the heat required in a smelting
furnace. Here is the Hall apparatus on a small scale. It is
simply a carbon- lined iron crucible, and a thick stick of carbon.
As already mentioned, the crucible is the cathode, the stick of
carbon the anode. As the process takes time to get into full
operation, it was commenced some hours ago, and at the rate at
which it has been working, we should by now have produced several
ounces of aluminium. Inl)eginning the process, the charge has first
to be melted. This is done by oringmg the carbon stick into
contact with the bottom of the crucible, so as to allow the current
to pass from carbon to carbon to develop heat between the elec-
trodes. The alumina compound, which, when melted, forms the
bath, is added in powder little by little, and when sufficient is
melted the carbon stick is raised out of contact with the bottom,
and the electrolytic action then commences. I will now ask Mr.
Sample to empty the crucible and let us see the result of the opera-
tion, and while he is doing so I take the opportunity of expressing
my very sincere thanks for his having so kindly and so successfully
carried out this most interesting demonstration of the latest and
one of the most important of aU the applications of electricity to
metallurgical operations. Here is the result of our experiment.
It is not very large, certainly, but it it quite enough for our
purpose, M'hich is to illustrate the principle of a newly-developed
electro-metallurgical industry directly derived from discoveriee
made at the Royal Institution.
INSTITUTION OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS.
DISCUSSION ON MESSRS. HEAVISIDE AND JACKSON'S
PAPER ON "ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION BY THE
NEWCASTLE ONTYNE ELECTRIC SUPPLY COMPANY.''
Sir David Salomons asked what system was employed in con-
necting up new customers.
Mr. Crompton said he would like additional information on this
point — how was the energy metered from the station? It appeiued
in the paper that apparently the virtual volts were multiplied by
the virtual ampeies, and that he would hardly think was meant.
The next point referred to an item put in for labour and superin-
tendence, and there was a misprint in the paper regarding it.
There was given the total cost of the service— and they had what
it meant by the word ** service " translated further down as 1*94
pence per unit, whereas in the table just below it was given as '816
per unit. There was no mention of meter losses. The total loesee
at the station were 25 per cent. Did that include meter loesee ?
Mr. Heatrlside said the new customers were added on Sundays,
when the service was shut down for a short time. The energy was
simply measured by multiplying the virtual amperes into virtual
volts. As regarded the cost of service the total figures had been
given, and the total losses shown include the meter losses.
Mr. Crompton congratulated the authors on their pftpor. It wm
TfiE ELJ:CTRICAL engineer, ttUNE 10, 1892.
S7^
the first honest, straightforward paper brought forward on the
subject of the cost ol distribution on the alternating-current
svstem. There was evidently a c^reat mistake in the way in which
the energy in the high-tension circuit was measured. What they
had done was practically useless, and gave them no guide what-
ever. He had himself in his high-tension station been for a long
time trying to get accurate data, but could not get accurate data
of the kina to w satisfied with. It would have l^n very interest-
ing to have known really. The authors claimed an efficiency of 75 per
cent., and the losses were stated at 25 per cent. That was a very high
efficiency when all losses were taken into consideration. After tiie
electricity was generated they had the losses in the distribution,
and then they had the losses in the meters, in the houses, and
other unexplained losses, which were a very considerable per-
centage of the whole. He thought he was correct in stating that
those losses amounted to 10 to 12 per cent, in most stations. It
might be said to be the fault of the meters, or it might be other
causes ; but at all events, quite independent of the efficiency of dis-
tribution, there were unexplained losses to be dealt with, and
which had to be dealt with when they were bringing the cost down
to the cost per unit pold to the customer, which was done so very
properly the authors of that paper. He thought that was the
only way they could deal with that matter — the cost of the units
sold. He did not propose to consider the whole of the figures,
because it was unnecessary to do so. The station was a new
one, and the repairs exceedingly small. The authors could not
pretend themselves that the cost of repairs had come up to what it
would be in a few years' time. And the general charges, rent,
rates and tcLxes, law charges, etc. , appeared to be exceedingly low,
and they were to be congratulated upon that, but those conditions
were not of universal application. What interested the members
were such figures as were affected by the system employed— fuel,
petty stores, water, labour etc... Now, they had been at con-
siderable pains to supply this information to enable comparison of
the cost of coal with that in the figures published of London
stations. He thought they might have savea themselves a great
deal of trouble, as they had already given accurately the quantity
of water used. They had taken the whole quantity of the water
used, and deducted very properly 10 per cent, of that for water
used for other purposes, leaving that evaporated for generating
electricity. In order to make a fair comparison, he had done the
same with accounts over a similar period of stations in London
with which he was acquainted, and found whereas they used
107 '51b. per unit sold, London stations used 601b., and that
appeared to be the difference in the efficiency of the whole system
as compared with the efficiency of the low tension systems at
present in use in London. The following figures were put on the
board :
Low pressure.
Coal 8-2
Water 60
Newcastle.
.. 14-6
.. 107*8
If that figure was taken and multiplied by the number of units,
they got a total sum expended of £15. 168. per week on wi^os,
and if that was divided into three shifts, they had three leading
hands at 45s. a week, three engine drivers at 35s., and three
stokers at 25s., which left absolutely nothing for superintendence.
These were lower figures than in London, where some superin-
tendence was necessary— even if only 10s. a week. Those put
together showed very fairly that the system used at Newcastle,
when compared with the other, was considerably more expensive,
and that was to be expected, because he believed, not only was
the alternating machine not so efficient as the direct-current, but
the systems employed were not so economical, and rope trans-
mission was another source of loss. More than all, the alternating
system was obliged to be worked for so many hours not fully
loaded, which was a heavy cause of loss and want of efficiency,
and he believed the difference between the two coal bills very
fairly represented the difference of efficiency. He thought they
must recognise that the alternating plant had not Worked out
cheaper than the direct-current plant. Whether it would do so in
the future remained to be seen. The author spoke of the figure he
furnished — 84 per cent.- as that regularly obtained as theemciency
of the generating plant— that was to say, electrical horse-power —
on the terminals of the dynamos divided by the indicated horse-
power of the engines was the efficiency that could be regularly
obtained in practice. He said that not only was that efficiency
obtained, but he knew that Messrs. Siemens Bros, had obtained
87 per cent. He had some machinery made by contractors that
was working at that high rate of efficiency, and the figures of April
for a station were given. The pounds of water per unit sold were
68, not 60 ; the labour bill was '8 instead of 110; the waste bill
was divided — for petty stores there was a decimal point and two O's
before they came to anything ; the oil (only 36 gallons were em-
ployed) came out at considerably under one- tenth of a penny, so that
in every way the figures were lower than those given tnere, showing
that those figures were already gieatly improved on in London. The
only other point was the question of load factor. He did not quite
understand how that was calculated. The burning hours, so far as
he could make out, were 4 50, and about 45 per cent, of the lamps
were on at a time. That would make the load factor 11*4, about
what would be expected at Newcastle.
Mr. AllMiglit said one thing came out very prominently from
this paper. Not only was coal dirt cheap in Newcastle, but
superintendence also was to be got for nothing. He noticed that
whereas at Newcastle the unit was sold for 4^d., the lamps were
taken as 30-watt lamps : if his figures were right, each 30-watt
lamp in Newcastle yields the good revenue to the company of
86. od. In London, the hardly -used consumer bemoaned his lot
he had to pay 8d. per unit, yet for a 33-watt lamp there
was an average revenue to the company of 8s. 6d. , as against 8s. 3d.
It might not DO 8s. 6d. in all cases. He believed the secretaries of
the London companies would say it was under 10s. So, in spite of
the enormously reduced cost of 4^. , the Newoajstle consumer did
not appear to save much on his total bill per annum.
Mr. W. H. Preeee said the whole time the current had been
supplied to the post office at Newcastle it had given the very
freatest satisfaction. It was quite impossible for the light to
ehave steadier and better. He did not know whether it struck
the audience as the paper was read that one of the most startling
and one of the strangest parts of that paper was not the cost of
working, but the capital expenditure. This amounted to about
£50 per kilowatt ; a capital expenditure of something like £2 per
lamp, which was less than the capital expenditure in London on
the mains alone of some low-pressure systems. Careful examina-
tion showed that the capital expenditure of low- pressure systoms
averaged from £5 to £6 per 8 c. p. lamp, whereas at Newcastle it
came out at less than £2 to 30s. per lamp. That meant that in
establishing a systom over a place like Newcastle at one-third the
capital expenditure, they could afford to work it at twice the cost,
and even then find they had an ample margin to pa^ a very hand-
some dividend. Again, another feature connected with that systom
was the ability to extond it to great distances — the paper said to a
distance of 2^ miles — and do accommodate scattored clients in
different parts of a great district at an expenditure averaging less
than £2 per lamp.
Sir David Salomons wished to point out one mattor which
applied to London in particular. Londoners might at once cry
out : '* In Newcastle people get the current for 4^d., while here
we have to pav 7id. " That, added to the rental of transformers,
was calculated at 8d. for the continuous current. He would point
that fact out — not in the way of criticising the paper, but merely
to stato the fact — London people were paying less for their current
than those in Newcastle. He was in favour of the continuous
current, and disagreed with Mr. Preeee that the altornating
current was more steadv than the direct. It would be most
interesting eventually to nave the figures of alternating and direct
systoms compared, and he thought the figures of the City of
London would be of enormous interest. There were 8,000 or 9,000
lamps already, and before October there would be over 30,000, and
after that time the figures would be sufficiently accurate and the
engines sufficiently loaded to obtain results which would be of
value, independently of some 400 or 500 arc lamps that would be
running.
Mr. W. M. Mordey did not wish to occupy any time that
evening. He wanted the low-pressure people to have plenty oi
rope. Keally, it was a paper on which he bad nothing to say except
in commendation, agreeing with nearly everything done at New-
castle. One or two things arose in the discussion to which he
would like to refer, partly because he saw the paper in its early
stages. As to the method of measuring raised by Mr. Cromptoo,
the volts had been multiplied by the amperes. That he knew was
a dreadful sin. There ought to be a new commandment, " Thou
shalt not multiplv the volts by the amperes," but they could do it
at Newcastle witnout being far wrong. Mr. Crompton could nob
do it at Chelmsford without being very far wrong indeed. The
transformers were not the same in the two places. Mr. Crompton
had a considerable proportion of open -circuit transformers, in
which there was a large magnetising current, and in which there
was a great disparity between the real watts supplied and the
apparent watts supplied. But any slight difference there might
be between the real and apparent watts at Newcastle was more
than covered by the fact that the meter losses had been treated in
the way they had been in the paper. Mr. Crompton had thrown
down a challenge or made a statement that alternators were not
as efficient as direct-current dynamos. He would undertake that
the Brush Company should put one of their alternators at the
Crystal Palace at the disposal of the Expert Committee as the
jury, and put, not transformers or anything else, but a lot of
incandescent lamps. They woulc^ rtin a 100-unit alternator direct
on to those lamps, arranged in series for that purpose, and Mr.
Crompton could run a 100-unit direct-current dynamo, either
direct or in parallel, and they could see who would run the most
lamps with a given power. That was a test which would put Uie
matter at rest perfectly. It did not involve anything they could not
understand. Tnere were no cosines about it or anything else. They
had merely to teke the candle-power of the lamps and the number of
them. A point in the paper which had been overlooked was the
extremely small labour staff" necessary to run the machinery. The
authors said they had for three 200 h.p. sets only three working-
men in the esteblishment — stoker, engine-driver, and assistant.
That spoke volumes for the character oT the plant, and it would be
difficult to get a direct-current plant to give better results than
that. Reference was made to parallel working in the station, and
supplementing what had been said by the authors he stated Uiey
had made attempts to work in parallel, and agreed that it would
be an advantage not to have to switoh the circuito off*, but run them
all in parallel. The alternators could not be got out of step ; the
failure was not due to the fact that they would not keep in stop.
He would underteke to pull the coils out of the machine before
they would get out of step. On the question of paridlel working
he would like to say that although there had been a good deal of
discussion about it during the last two or three years, he would
make no claim whatever to have invented parallel working. All
alternators had 8 tendency to run in parallel, but the ditference
was this : one machine might require to exercise greator current
than another. The whole thing might be set at rest on that point
by a simple test. Let any machine be run up to speed, thrown
into synchronism, and run as motors idle. The machine that
woald run best in parallel was the machine that would ran with
574
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 10, 1891
the lowest carrent to drive them empty as motors. That would
show that although all machines tended to run parallel, some ran
with ajpven synchronism less than others, and therefore their
plant efficiency was less than others. The paper was a commercial
paper, and it was fitter that the direct-current people should try
to pick holes in the result.
Karl Bnsaell did not think that Mr. Mordey ought to take ad-
vantage of the absence of Mr. Swinburne to suggest that there was
no magnetisine current in closed-circuit transformers. He would
suggest that the magnetising current of an open circuit compared
with a closed -circuit transformer was as 6 to 9.
Kr. Mordey had found, in testing, an open circuit gave from
20 to 30 ; but was in the habit of designing transformers to work
with from 1 to 2 per cent.
Mr. John Rlohardson desired to say two or three words with
regard to the engine performance alluded to. The total loss
between the indicat<ed horse- power at the engine and the electrical
horse-power given out to the customers had to be accounted for in
someway. The authors had quite honestly put down 27*5 per
cent, to friction. Of course, that was an assumption. He would
scarcely allow that so much friction was expended in the engines,
excepting that sometimes and for a consiaerable time they were
working with very low loads indeed. When the engines were
working at their fair power, the percentage of friction would not be
more than 15 at the outside. That would also account for the
271b. of water. That was the result of a very long test taken over
12 months. If that test had been taken over a few hours when the
engines were working at their maximum efficiency, it would be
nearer 171b. per horse-power unit than 271b. As regarded the
difference of speed, the engines were fitted with very sharp cut-off
gear, and it was thought that there might be a difference between
the speed of the various parts of the revolution. With very elabo-
rate apparatus which Mr. Heaviside placed at bis disposal he spent
some hours trying to find out what aifferences there were between
one part and another part of the revolution. There was no difference
that could be detected with the finest electrical measurements. It
might be possible sometimes to detect differences that were not
detected then. About the cheap superintendence, he thought per-
haps the authors would say that there was even some margin for
that skilled superintendence which Mr Crompton found was got
for nothing. But three men were in the station, two workmen
only, and the whole of the machinery, it was fair to say, worked
with so little trouble that highly-skilled and highly-paid men were
not needed. Quite ordinary mechanics, at comparatively low
wages, very soon attained the necessary knowledge to manage such
very simple machinery, and there was a considerable margin
left for that skilled attendance that lay so near the heart of Mr.
Crompton.
Mr. A. W. Heaviside did not propose to reply seriatim upon all
e)ints raised. The details of the capital expenditure, on an instal-
tion of 20,000-c.p. lamps, and the cost worked out thus : On
buildings the proportion worked out at 28. 8d. per lamp installed,
station plant 138. Id., pwitchboards 7d., pipes and boxes 4s 7d ,
mains within these pipes and boxes 48. 7d. » losses— plant 4d., trans-
formers 48. 2d.
A vote of thanks to the authors for the paper was accorded by
acclamation.
LEGAL INTELLIGENCE.
WESTERN COUNTIES AND SOUTH WALES TELEPHONE
COMPANY v. BOURNEMOUTH AND DISTRICT ELECTRIC
SUPPLY COMPANY.
Electrie Lightlner and Telephoning.
The case of the Western Counties and South Wales Telephone
Company v. the Bournemouth and District Electric Supply Com-
Bmy again came before Mr. Justice Chitty, sitting in the Chancery
ivision of the High Court of Justice, last Friday.
Affidavits were read in support of the plaintiff's case, declaring
that it was almost impossible to speak through the telephone
wires and hear replies, owing to the buzzing noise proceeding from
the wires of the electric light company.
For the defence Mr, Bjrme, Q.C, said his clients had done, and
were doing, all they possibly could to alleviate the disturbance,
which, he said, was not nearly so bad as the plaintiffs made out,
and the speaking through the telephone exchange system was
carried on with much greater ease than was the case with any of
the London telephone systems.
The affidavit of Dr. SUvanns P. Thompson was then read, the
effect of which was that he visited Bournemouth on May 23rd,
staying at the Mont Dore Hotel, and listened through the plaintiff
company's systems during the time when the electric light current
of tne defendant company was in operation, and he could not
detect any disturbance worth naming or that interfered to any
material degree with the operation of the plaintiff company s
system. He Bi)oke through the telephone exchange to the works
of the defendant company in the Bourne Valley. There was a
faint hum like that which could be heard in a sea-shell when
placed clo8e t*o the ear, which was doubtless caused by the defen-
dants' wire. It was slightly louder on the line to Bourne Valley.
There was a deal of cross- talking, and he heard a woman's voice,
which caused more disturbance than the faint hum. There was a
well-known crackling noise due to the plaintiff company's carbon
transmitters, and there were occasional whirring sounds, due to
the use of electric bells on other lines in the pltontiff company's
system. Taken as a whole, his evidence went to show that talking
could be carried on with perfect ease through the telephone, and
that it was far superior to the exchange systems of London and
Manchester. Whilst speaking from the hotel, he could say that
there was nothing in tne shape of an actual disturbance which
could be complained of.
Other evidence was given to the same effect, and Mr. Bryne
continued to argue his case; but was stopped by his Lordship, who
suggested that it would be better if an uninterested party, who
could be relied upon, and who was well experienced in electrical
works, could be sent down to examine the telephone and make a
report as to his opinion, and put it in an affidavit, the motion
standing over until that was done.
Both parties agreed to this and the motion stood over, his
Lordship remarking that with such a conflict of evidence, and in
cases like the present, it was much the better course.
COMPANIES' REPORTS,
WESTERN COUNTIES AND SOUTH WALES TELEPHONE
COMPANY.
Directors: Charles Nash, Esii., J.P. (chairman); Mark Whit-
will, Eeq , J P. (deputy-chairman) : Henry Fedden, Esq. ; Thomas
Pole, Esq. ; Richard Cory, Es([., J.P., alderman; and J. Staats
Forbes, Esq., and G. H. Robertson, Esq. (nominated by the
National Telephone Company, Limited, under agreement).
General manager and secretary : Henry F. Lewis.
Report of tne Directors for the year ending December, 31, 1891,
presented to the shareholders at the seventh annual ordinary
general meeting of the Company, held at the Grand Hotel, Broad-
street Bristol, on Wednesday, June 8, 1892.
The Directors herewith submit to the shareholders the statement
of receipts and expenditure up to the end of last year. The
capital expenditure for the year ending December 31, 1891, was
£20,956. Us. 3d., making a total of £185,366. 6s. 5d. to date. The
gross revenue of the Company for the year 1891 was £52,224. Is. 6d.,
against £46,860. 15s. for the year ending December 31, 1890. The
amount of income carried forward to next year's revenue, as repre-
senting sums received in advance for p)eriods extending beyond
December 31, 1891, is £15,548. Ts. lid., against £14,212. 19s. Id.
brought in from the previous year. The whole of the Company's
plant has been fully maintained and, where required, renewed
out of revenue. The Company have continued to substitute, at
considerable expense a large amount of copper and bronze wire
for iron, which has increased the efficiency and durability of the
plant. The working expenses, including maintenance and all
working charges for the year 1891, have oeen £16,685. lOs. lOd-
against £13,775 188. Id. for the year ending 3l8t December, 1890.
Balance of net revenue account £11,236 17 4
Dividend of 6 per cent, on the paid-up pre-
ference share capital for the year enaing
31et December, 1891 6,000 0 0
Balance for appropriation, as per statement
at end of accounts £5,236 17 4
The Directors recommend that a dividend at the rate of I per
cent, be paid for the year on the ordinary shares, absorbing £2,811.
198. 5d., leaving a balance of £2,424. 17s. lid., from which will
have to be deducted the amount which may be voted for the
Directors' fees for the year 1891. The number of subscribers to
the exchange system and of private line renters has farther
increased, and the progress made during the year is considered to
be satisfactory. The respective totals at the close of the years
1890 and 1891 were as follows :
Exchange. Private.
December 31, 1891 3,268 803
December 31, 1890 2,875 712 .
Total.
4,071
3,587
484
Increase in 1891 393 91
The mileage of trunks and renters' wires is as follows :
Erected up to December 31, 1891 5,753 miles
December 31, 1890 5,018
))
»)
• 9
Increase representing new business during 1891 735
In addition to the above, 191 miles of wire have been renewed
during the year. The Company has increased its trunk system,
so that on December 31, 1891, it bad 505 miles of trunk pole lines
connecting towns with each other, carrying 2,383 miles of wire ;
against 470 miles of pole lines, carrying 2,182 miles of wire, at the
corres|X)nding date in the previous year. It is within the know-
ledge of many shareholders that for some time past a gradual
process of amalgamating the provincial telephone companies with
the National Telephone Company, Limited, has been in operation.
It has been felt by your Directors that either an amalgamation must
be effected between this Company and the National Company, or
additional capital must be raised to meet the requirements of its
important district, comprising the W^est^rn Counties and 8outh
Wales, for which the approval of the National Company would be
necessary. After much discussion the former alternative has been
adopted, and terms have been provisionally arranged for the con-
sideration of the shareholders. A provisional agreement is now in
course of preparation, which will be submitted to a special meeting
of this Company with as little delay as possible. As soon as the
provisional agreement has been finally settled, full information of
the terms of the proposed sale will be afforded to every sharekokUor
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 10, 1892.
575
by circular or otherwise. The Directors have pleasure in acknow-
ledging the continued uniform courtesy of the permanent officials
of the Post Office Department. Mr. Mark W hi twill and Mr.
Thomas Pole retire, the former by rotation and the latter by ballot,
but are eligible for re-election. Messrs. Hudson Smith, Briggs,
and Co. retire, but are eligible for re-election.
Capital.
Authorised. Issued. Balance.
20,000 preference shares £5 each £100,000 £100,000 —
300.000 ordinary shares £1 each 300,000 281,197 £18,803
Debentures 80,000 79,450* 550
£480,000 £460,647 £19,353
*£22,000 issued on security for temporary loans for £20,000.
Dr. Revenue Account, Dec. 31, 1891. £ s. d.
General management, salaries, wages, rents, rates,
taxes, and office expenses at head office and
branches, stationery, printing, and depreciation of
furniture 6,438 1 8
Law charges, auditors' fees, fire insurance, and
officers' guarantee premiums 494 18 9
Post Office telegraph service at Cardiff, Newport,
and Plymouth « 190 0 0
Working expenses, maintenance and renewals of
lines, repairs, wages, stores, etc. 9,562 10 5
Balance carried to net revenue account 14,455 9 4
£31,141 0 2
Or. £ s. d. £ s. d.
Rentals brought forward from last
account 14,212 19 0
Rentals received and outstanding,
including receipts at call offices . . . 38,01 12 5
52,224 1 6
Deduct proportion of rentals carried
forward to next year's accounts for
unexpired periods, £15,548. 7s. lid.;
royalties, £4,943. 56. lid.; instru-
ment rental, £674 21,165 13 10
Transfer and registration fees
Profit on sale of mstruments (estimated)
31,058 7 8
12 12 6
70 0 0
£31,141 0 2
Dr. Balance-sheet, Dec. 31, 1891. £ s. d.
Sundry creditors . 9,579 3 7
Dividends unpaid 12 3 10
Proportion of rentals in respect of period extending
beyond 3l8t December, 1891 15,548 7 11
Net revenue account for 1891,
£11,236. 178. 4d. Less preference
interim dividend at 6 per cent, per
annum for half-year ending 30th
June, 1891 £3,000 0 0
8,236 17 4
Overdraft at bankers 261 2 11
Reseive account 2,200 0 0
Less balance of Jersey expenditure
written off 500 0 0
1,700 0 0
£35,337 15 7
Cr. £ . s. d.
Capital account balance, as per statement 7,916 6 5
Stores, tools, etc 6,760 0 1
Sundry debtors 9,195 13 2
Office furniture, fixtures, and fittings 1,824 14 10
Royalties, etc., paid in advance 1,594 8 2
Agency and trunk line establishment 2,507 13 11
Suspense revenue charges 5,349 11 3
Cash in hand at head office and branches 189 7 9
£35,337 15 7
ELECTRIC AND GENERAL INVESTMENT COMPANY,
LIMITED.
Directors : His Grace the Duke of Marlborough (chairman), the
Right Hon. Lord Cloncurry, Jos. B. Braithwaite, jun., Esq.,
George Herring, Esq., B. H. Van Tromp, Esq., Emile Garcke,
Esq. (managing director).
Report of Directors, submitted to the third ordinary general
meeting of the shareholders held at Winchester House, Old Broad-
street, London, E.C., on Thursday, June 9, 1892.
The Directors b^ to submit the balance-sheet and profit and loss
account for the year ended 31st May, 1892. The profit and loss
account shows a gross profit on the transactions of the year of
£.34,379. 4s. 5d., and after deducting all standing charges there re-
mains a net balance available for distribution of £28,863. 12s. 1 Id.
An interim dividend has already been paid on the ordinary shares
for the first six months of the year at the rate of ^ per cent, per
annum, and the Directors now recommend the payment of a further
dividend upon the ordinary shares at the rate of 30 per cent, per
annum for the past six months, and a dividend on the founders'
shares of £30 per share. This will le^ve a balaDoe of i^,863. 12b.
lid., which the Directors recommend should be applied as follows :
£20,000 to reserve ; £726. Os. Id. for writing off the preliminary
expenses ; £137. 12s. lOd. balance to be carried forward in eQu>^
moieties on account of the ordinary shareholders and founders. The
amended articles of association recommended by the Directors have
been adopted at two extraordinary general meeting of shareholders,
and approved by the holders of the founders' shares, and have been
registered as the articles of association of the Comjiany. The
Directors have appointed as managing director, Mr. Emile Garcke,
M.I.E.E., formerly managing director of the Brush Electrical
Engineering (Ik)mpany. The directors who retire this year are Mr.
George Herring and Mr. B. H. Van Tromp, who, being duly eligible,
offer themselves for re-election. The auditors, Messrs. Rait and
Kearton, also retire, and offer themselves for re-election. It is pro-
posed to make the dividends payable on June 15.
Balance-sheet at 31st May, 1892.
Dr. £ 8. d.
Capital authorised —
£200,000 in 39,900 ordinary shares of £5 each,
and 100 founders shares of £5 each.
Capital subscribed —
20,000 ordinary shares.
100 founders' shares.
Capital called up—
£1 per share on 20,000 ordinary ... £20,000 0 0
£5 „ „ 100 founders' .. 500 0 0
20,500 0 P
Reserve fund (ordinary shares account) 133 5 5
ditto (founders' shares account) 133 5 4
Sundry creditors 6,585 19 1
Profit and loss account —
Balance from 1891 16 10 9
„ „ 1892, as below 28,847 2 2
28,863 12 11
Less interim dividend paid on
ordinary shares 2,000 0 0
26,863 12 11
£54,216 2 9
Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d.
Investments at cost 46,500 0 5
Less security sold for delivery, 15th
June 5,715 16 0
40,874 4 5
Preliminary expenses 726 0 1
Sundry debtors 6.364 13 1
Cash on deposit at bankers 5.000 0 0
Cash on current account at bankers 1,341 5 2
£54,216 2 9
Profit and Loss Account Year ended May 31, 1892.
Dr. £ s. d.
General charges, including Directors' fees, and
additional remuneration as per articles of associa-
tion, general expenses, legal charges, advertising
and auditors' fee, etc 5,532 2 3
Balance carried to balance-sheet 28,847 2 2
£34,379 4 5
Cr. £ 8. d.
Interest, commissions, and sundry profits 34,379 4 5
£34,379 4 5
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
Jobnaoii'a Patents, Limited.— Registered by Addleshaw, War-
burton, and Co., 7, New-court, Carey street, Vv.C, with a capital
of £40,000 in £10 shares. Object : to carry into eflect an agree-
ment expressed to be made between R. Johnson of the one part,
and this Company of the other |)art, generally to carry on in all their
respective branches the businesses of millwrights, ironfounders,
mechanical and electrical engineers, etc. There shall be not lees
than three nor more than seven directors. The first are : H.
Mallalieu, R. R Buck, F. Mallalieu, R. Johnson, and £. R. Buck.
Qualification, £500. Remuneration, £300 per annum, and 25 per
cent, on the net profits after payment of 10 per cent, dividend.
BUSINESS NOTES.
West India and Panama Telegraph Company. — The receipts
for the half-month ended May 31 were £3,229, againt £2,837.
Western and Brasilian Telegraph Company.— The receipts
of this Company for the past week, after deducting 17 per cent,
payable to the London Platino-Brazilian Company, were £3,032.
City and Sonth London Railway.— The receipts for the week
ending June 5 were £782, against £775 for the same period of
last year, or an increase of £7. The total receipts to date from
January 1, 1892, show an increase of £1,272 as compared with last
year.
Bath mootrie Light Company, Llmtfd.— This Ccnnpany has
been cUmolrecl uiKJIer Claose 7 (4) of the CompanieB 4ct, 1880
576
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 10, 1892.
(43 Vict., ch. 19) by notice in the L(mdon OazeUe, dated May 10,
1892. The Company was registered on March 21, 1889, with a
capital of £25,000 in £10 shares.
Xtoetrio and General Investment.— At a meeting held on the
Ist Inst, the Board of this Company resolved to recommend the
pajrment of a further dividend on the ordinary shares at the rate
of 30 per cent, per annum, making, with the interim dividend
of 10 per cent., a total of 25 per cent for the year, and a dividend
of £30 on each founders* share.
New Flrme. — Messrs. New and Mayne, recently with Messrs.
A. B. Gill and Co. , have just opened offices as electrical engineers
at Palace-chambers, Westminster, with works at Woking, Surrey,
The new firm are taking up general contract work and the
manufacture of specialties in electrical fittings and instru-
ments.— Mr. Leoline A. Edwards, formerly of the Brush and
Electric Construction Companies, has opened an office at 19,
Lawrence Pountney-lane, where he intends to carry on the
business of a mechanical and electrical engineer.
Netting Hill Xleetzio Lighting Company, Limited.— This
Company, whose capital is £100,000, of which £70,020 has been
subscribed and paid up in full, invite applications for the balance
of £29,980 in the form of ordinary pre^rence shares, bearing a
preferential cumulative dividend at the rate of 6 per cent, per
annum. In addition to this, the ordinary preference shares will
be entitled, after the holders of the rest of the ordinary shares
shall have been paid a dividend for the year at the rate of 6 per
cent, per annum, to share pari passni witn the ordinary shares in
any dividend or bonus in excess of such 6 per cent, available for
division. The object of this issue is to enable the Company to
extend the system to other parte of its area, the first extension
being into the Phillimore Estate.
Conaolidafd Telephone Company, Limited. —The report of
this Company for the year ended March 31, 1892, shows a net
profit of £7,188, which, with the amount carried forward from last
year, leaves a balance of £8.904 for disposal, after making pro-
vision for doubtful debts. The Directors propose to deal with the
amount available as follows — viz. : To pay a further dixddend of
£1 per cent, for the half-year on the ordinary shares, and £3 per
cent, on the preference shares for the half-year, making, with the
interim dividend paid in November last. £6 per cent, for the year
on the preference shares and £3. 10s. for the year on the ordinary
shires, writing off the sum of £617 for depreciation of plant,
machinery, and furniture, also £63. Ifis. 8d. from cost of new
building, thus leaving a balance of £1,366 to carry forward. The
falling off in the profit in manufacturing is owing to American,
Frencn, and German competition, the prices of manufactures
having had to be reduced to meet the demand for cheap goods,
while the heavy duties placed on the Company's instruments
abroad have no doubt tenaed to reduce their sates in that direction.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS. 1892.
May 30.
It270
10274
10367
10266 ImproTementa in eleetrieal meaanring Inatmments.
William Edward Ayrton and Thomas Mather, CentriU
Institution, Exhibition -road, London.
Improvements in antomatio eleotrio lighting and in the
apparatne therefor. Ernest Lower Berry and Frederick
Harrison, Lyric-chambers, Hay market, London.
Zmprorements in diatrilmtion of eleetrioity ftom a
central station. Andrew Sweet, 2, Cathcart-hill, Junc-
tion-road, London.
May 31.
10303 improvements in eleetrieal reeiprooating tools. William
Price Carstarphen, jun., 52, Chancery -lane, London. (Com-
plete specification. )
10334 Improvements in djmamo-elaetrio generators and motors.
Rankin Kennedy, Camtyne Electric Works, Shettleston,
Glasgow.
Improvements in oonneotions and terminals for eleotrie
and other wires and oables. Hercules Sanche, Monument-
chambers, King William-street, London. (Complete speci-
fication.)
10388 Improvements in secondary hatteries. Edwin Freund
and Lars Bristol, 21, Cockspur-street, London.
JUNB 1.
10430 An improvement in eleetrieal Insnlatlng sheet Robert
Wood, 2, New Bridge-street, Manchester. (Charles W.
Jefferson and Rupert R. St. John, .)
10451 An antomatio switch for electric current transformers.
Richard Norman Lucas, Arthur James Mayne, and Anthony
George New, 9, Bridge-street, Westminster, London.
Improvements in the mannfkctnre of ccndncting wires
for electricity. Henry Harris Lake, 46, Southaxnpton-
buildings, Chancery - lane, London. (Madame Veuve
Hannetelle, n6e Hortente Chapius, France.)
10466 An improved telephone comMnatien. Sir Charles Stewart
Forbes, Bart., 21, Finsbury-pavement, London.
June 2.
Improvamcnts in apparatus Cor electrical and magnetic
msaMUPsaMita. James Alfred Swing, Laogdale Lodge,
^Cambridge.
10450
10477
10478
10484
10520
10523
10524
10544
10602
10608
10609
100«2
lOe.')!
10683
10690
10696
10706
An improved cnt*cir for electrical pnrpcaes. William
Wilson Horn, 151, Strand, London. (James P. Wooley,
Canada. )
Improvements in eleotrie generators. William Grieraon,
99, Waterloo-street, Glasgow.
An improved method of regulation of the potential differ^
enoe of eleetrieal condnotors. Josiah Sayers, 49, Mel-
bourne-street, Derby.
Improvements in and conneoted with electric hattertes.
August Van Boeckxsel, 4, South-street, Finsbury, London.
Improvements in are lamp standards and ellmliing poles.
Wilfrid L. Spence, The Elms, Seymour-grove, Manchester.
Xleotrioal Insulating sheet. Arthur H. S. Dyer, 36»
Chancery-lane, London.
June 3.
The extra rapid telegraphic apparatus with invertad
currents. Gaspare Sacco, 14, Leicester-place, London.
Improvements in telephones. Ambrose Myall, 21, Cock-
spur-street, London. (W. Stuart Harrison, China.)
Improvements in eleetrieal aocumulators. Bernard
Mervyn Drake, John Marshall Gorham, Walter Claude
Johnson, and Samuel Edmund Phillips, 66, Victoria-street,
London.
ThA protection of insulating material or cable, line and
like eleotrio wires to preserve the Insulating material
from atmospherio and other destruotive media, and for
preventing escape of sound vibrations from telephone
wires. William Si>6ir8 Simpson, 166, Fleet-street, London.
June 4.
Improvements in eleotrio switches Carl Thomas Blanch
Brain, Bell's- buildings. South John-street, Liverpool.
An improvement in ceiling roses (or fittings) for use wtth
pendant eleotrio light fittings. Herbert Thomas Sully, 4,
Tower-villas, George lane, South Woodford, near London.
Apparatus for automatic calculation of electric, gaa. or
water distribution. Hugo Helberger, 18, Buckingham-
street, Strand, London.
Improvements in anodes for use in electric oella for
treating chlorides, fiuorides, or other oomponnda and
the like. Thomas Parker and Alfred Edward Robinson,
47, Lincoln's-inn-fields, London.
An improved detector cover for eleotrie push-loicbs
and the like. Alexander Shiels, 159, Coldharbour-lane,
Camberwell, London.
Improvements in effecting electric telegraphic communi-
cation, applicable especially for telegraphing to ligkt-
houses, either floating or on rooks, at a distanoe from
the shore, or for telegraphing to and ftrom vessels.
Willoughhy Statbam Smith and William Puddicombe
Granville, 24, Southampton - buildings, Chancery - lane,
London.
1 472
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1879.
2402. Xlectric lights, etc. Edison. (Fifth edition.)
5127. Xleetric lamps, eto. Edison. (Fifth edition. )
1880.
18. Xlectric lamps. Swan. (Fourth edition. )
4933. fileotrio lamps. Swan. (Fourth edition.)
1891.
8784. Tdegraphic signals. Evershed and Richards.
10083. Xlectrioal eut-out. Keating.
11625. Xlectrioal oonneotions. Holmes.
11644. Lighting trains by eleotricity. Timmis.
11767. Telephone switohboards. Kingsbury.
12040. Voltmeters. Dykes and Hird.
1892.
4017. Xleetric measuring instruments. Lake. (Weston.)
5086. Xleetric block signalling apparatus. Hall.
6961. Xleotrioal switches. Heil.
7044. Dynamo-meters. Wood.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARK UST.
Brush Co
— Pref
India Rubber, Gutu Percha k Telegraph Co
Honse-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Electric Construction
Westminster Electric
Liverpool Eleotrio Supply {
Price
Paid.
Wedu««
dtj
^^^
H
—
21
10
201
5
n
5
I
8*
*k
8
5
41
10
6i
—
«A
5
H
9
H
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17, 1892.
677
NOTES.
Cannes. — ^The Cannes electric lighting company is to
be reconstructed.
Sunderland. — A new and handsome post office is to
be erected in Sunderland with all recent improvements.
Book Reoelved. — "Everybody's Pocket Cyclopaedia
of Things Worth Knowing," by Don Lemon (Saxon and
Co., 6d.).
Fleetwood. — The Improvement Commissioners have
decided not to purchase the electrical plant offered by the
Preston Electric Lighting Company.
Chemioal Society. — The Chemical Society's rooms
will be closed on and after the 20th inst to permit of altera-
tions, the introduction of electric light, and redecorations.
Long-Distanoe Telephony. — Interesting experiments
in telephony have just been carried out between Dunkerque
and Marseilles, a distance of 1,200 kilometres, or about
750 miles.
Train Ughting. — Mr. C. K Thipps, locomotive super-
intendent of the Madras Eailway, is undertaking experi-
ments in train lighting. It is thought oil gas will be
preferred.
The Telephone in Russia. — The Daily News Moscow
correspondent states that St. Petersburg and Moscow are
to be connected by telephone this summer. The distance
is 409 miles.
Reading. — ^It is understood that the Reading Electric
Lighting Company will make a considerable move for the
extension of the light shortly, when parliamentary powers
are received.
Bromley. — The Electric Lighting Committee of the
Bromley Local Board have under consideration an offer of
a site in West-street, Bromley, for the erection of an electric
lighting station.
French Eleotrio Railway. — Boulogne-sur-Seine, the
pretty suburb of Paris, is to have an electric installation
for lighting, and there is also talk of an electric railway
between it and Paris.
Transmission of Power. — The French Soci^t^
d'Encouragement k Tlndustrie has awarded a prize of
3,000f . to M. Hillairet, as author of the best project for
transmission of natural forces.
Chiswiok. — The Chiswick Local Board have retained
the services of Mr. Morgan Williams to advise them on the
question of carrying out the electric lighting under the pro-
visional order for the district.
Whitby. — The Highway Committee of Whitby has been
requested to obtain terms for public lighting for the year,
the clerk explaining that the enquiry did not include the
consideration of electric light.
Theatre Lamps. — The Lithanode and General Electric
Company (late the Mining and Greneral Electric Lamp
Company) are going to provide portable lamps for use in
the summer ballet at the Crystal Palace.
Haddersfleld« — Tenders are invited for lighting by
arc and incandescent light the sewage works at Hudders-
field. Particulars can be obtained from Mr. A. B.
Mountain, the borough electrical engineer.
Bradford. — The tender of Messrs. Thornton and
Creppin for providing and fixing the ironwork required in
the extension of the works at the central station has been
accepted. The amount of the contract is £1,132.
St. Helens. — At the meeting of the St. Helens Town
Hall Committee on Tuesday, the surveyor reported that
the fittings for the electric light were proceeding slowly,
and he intended temporarily to light the assembly-room
that night at Mr. Labouchere's meeting.
Guildford. — The Guildford Town Council are in a
hurry to have definite information as to the electric
lighting of the town, and seem to be in earnest in the
matter, for they have written to their engineer saying that
unless they had a report by next meeting they must take
other proceedings.
Brasilian Cable. — ^News has been received of the
successful laying of a duplicate cable by the Western and
Brazilian Telegraph Company between Bio de Janeiro and
the River Plate, thus completing the direct duplicated
system of their telegraphs between this country, Brazil,
Uruguay, and the Argentine Republic.
Sleotrio Uirhtinflr in Franoe. — Those interested in
electric lighting installations in France will find a valuable
and exhaustive list of central stations throughout that
country, with map^ in L'Industrie Eledrique for June 10th.
The list gives names of proprietors, date of starting,
nature of lighting, kind of engines, horse-power, system of
dynamo, nature of distribution of current
Dublin. — Messrs. Woodhouse and Sawson United,
Limited, inform us that they have recently opened a branch
oflKce, showroom, and stores at 16, Fleet-street, Dublin,
their former agencies at Belfast and Cork being given up,
and the whole of their Irish business concentrated in
Dublin, under the management of Mr. Arthur H. M.
Francis, to whom all communications should be addressed.
Edison and Thomson-Houston. — A special edition
of the New York paper Electricity is promised shortly,
devoted to the early history and subsequent development
of the Edison and Thomson-Houston Companies up to the
time of their amalgamation, with incidents and anecdotes
of their principal men, and an account of the financial
history of the companies. It should prove interesting
reading.
Aooumulator Patents. — The Soci6t^ de TAccumu-
lateur Multitubulaire (Tommasi's patents) and the Popp
Company have both applied for licenses to the Faure-
Sellon-Yolckmar Company for right to use salts and oxides
of lead on payment of a royalty. At a time when Gadot,
Tudor, and others are fighting the claims, this concession on
the part of two companies is naturally looked upon as
significant.
Clouffh HbXL — The electric installation at Clough Hall,
in the Potteries, has been carried out by the Woodhouse
and Bawson Kidsgrove Engineering Works, and was
practically complete on Whit Monday. The installation
^as carried out with very great rapidity, and is remark-
able from the fact that the entire plant has been manu-
factured by the Woodhouse and Bawson Company. The
electrical work was superintended by Mr. Bertram
Thomas, and the engineering work by Mr. John Henry
Owen, assisted by Mr. Todd.
Amerioan Items. — The three drawhridges in
Milwaukee are now worked by Thomson-Houston motors.
The works of the Cliff Paper Company, at Niagara, are i^
run by Leppel turbines of 1,100 h.p. Electricity, in place
of steam, is to be used on a standard gauge railway on the
Beaver and Ellwood Railway, Pittsburgh. All telephone,
telegraph, and electric light wires in Pittsburgh are to go
underground within four years. A telephone cable has
been laid from East Boston to Boston under the river at
the South Ferry by the New England Telephone Company.
Portsmouth. — At a meeting of the Portsmouth Town
Council on the 7th inst., the Electric Lighting Committee
578
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17, 1892.
reported that in their opinion it would be necessary to
acquire the piece of land adjoining the site in Ounwharf-
road, recently acquired by the Corporation, for an electric
light station. This piece of land was at present let for
£22 per annum, and it was understood that the term for
which it was let had about two or three years to run, but as
there was an opportunity now of buying the land, subject
to this tenancy, at £600, they recommended that they be
authorised to buy it This was carried.
Royal Printtng Works. — The Boyal Printing Works
at Vienna are extensively fitted with electric appliances.
There is power to the extent of 300 h.p. employed, of
which 100 h.p. is for electric light. There are 1,700 lamps
of 10 c.p. and 16 c. p., 50 of 100 c. p., and 18 arcs. Besides
this, the printing works has two electroplating establish-
ments for manufacture of blocks for bank notes. The
first uses a Kroetlinger dynamo of 2 5 volts and 80 amperes,
and the other one of the same, and also a Schuckert
machine of 4 volts and 230 amperes for depositing steel
and nickel. Lastly, in a cellar is a complete photographic-
room furnished with electric light.
Oroth Patents. — The Grange Syndicate, Limited,
which was incorporated for the purpose of experimenting
and developing a patent process for tanning leather by
electricity, is being wound up, operations having been
suspended for want of funds, and the total deficiency
amounts to £2,129. The failure is attributed chiefly to
the inability of Mr. Groth, the patentee, to dispose of his
foreign patents. So far as the experiments of tanning by
electricity has proceeded, it is claimed that it has been a
success, and that leather submitted to the process has
turned out in a condition which, under better financial
support, would have proved remunerative.
Whitehaven. — At the monthly meeting of the White-
haven Town and Harbour Trust, held last week, the pro-
posed electric lighting of the town was discussed. The
chairman said the committee which had been appointed had
visited Preston, where temporary plant had been laid down
and permanent plant was now being erected. He thought
it advisable that they should have the opinion of an
electrical engineer before coming to a decision, and he pro-
posed that the Board empower the Electric Lighting Com-
mittee to obtain the services of some engineer of this kind
and consult him as to the lighting before committing them-
selves to any great expense. This proposal was carried.
Lyons. — At present there are used at Lyons 30,000
cubic metres of water a day, there are 130,000 jets of gas,
and 13,000 h.p. of engine power. M. Yerny in a recent
project proposes to unite these great supplies in one by
power transmitted electrically. He proposes to progress
gradually, so that the first transmission of power could be
made within eight months of the start. He proposes to
transmit at first 2,500 h.p. a distance of 195 kilometres on
the three*wire high-tension system at 40,000 volts, having
a second additional set of wires for each 5,000 h.p. Sub-
stations of 3,500 h.p. each would be erected eventually in
six different parts of Lyons. Details of the estimate of
cost are given in L*Electricien for June 11.
Coventry Tramways. — At last week's meeting of
the Coventry County Council, the minutes of the General
Works Committee contained the following : " Read letter of
Mr. R. B. Johnson, solicitor to Mr. W. S. G. Baker, the
intending purchaser of the undertaking of the tramways
company, asking the Corporation to consent to an exten-
sion of the license for the use of steam for a further period
of six months, from the 1st June next, to enable Mr. Baker
to complete his purchase of the electric installation.
Ordered that, without assenting to the proposed or any
particular form of traction, the committee recommended
the Council to consent to the proposed extension of the
license on condition that the cars continue, as at present, to
stop at the top of Bishop-street."
Eleotrio Coal-Cutters. — We have had enquiries
addressed to us as to who are manufacturers of electric coal-
cutters. Messrs. W. S. Goolden and Co. have for some
time manufactured coal-cutters driven by electric motors
which have worked with considerable success. Their
patents for coal-cutting machinery have lately, however,
been purchased by the Woodfield Syndicate, of 1, Wood-
field-road, Westbourne Park. Electric coal-cutters have
also been made by the General Electric Traction and Power
Company, and applied, along with electric pumping plant,
in collieries in the North of England. In America the
Thomson-Houston and the Westinghouse Company have
done very considerable work with electric coal-cutters, and
the Westinghouse Company have largely applied the Tesla
alternating-current motor to this work, besides the ordinary
motors.
Chatham. — In spite of the many difficulties which have
been encountered, the directors of the Chatham, etc..
Electric Lighting Company are confident that before long
the light will be installed in many more places of business
and private residences throughout the district. The new
works in Whittaker-street, Chatham, have just been
opened, and are found to be eminently suited for the
requirements of the conipany. The new and power-
ful engine of 150 h.p., developing 50 amperes at
2,400 volts, gives every satisfaction. The company will
shortly commence to lay their mains underground, as
according to the terms of their provisional order they are
bound to carry out this work by the end of August. Until
this is done the company do not desire to increase the
number of their customers, as it would simply mean a
double expense in connection with the wires.
Iron for Dynamos. — ^The Daily Chronicle says : " The
American electrical journals are complaining that, in spite
of Mr. M'Kinley*8 heaven-born tariff, it is extremely
difficult to obtain native manufactured iron suitable for
electrical purposes, such as the construction of dynamo
and motor armatures, transformers, etc. It is fre-
quently badly and irregularly annealed and finished by
rolling, scaling, and so forth. The result is that many
of the instrument makers are forced to import
English, Welsh, and Swedish iron, and pay high duties
on it, in spite of Mr. Carnegie's comforting assurance
that he and Mr. Hewett are really losers by the protection
tariff. Pennsylvania iron, even of the best quality, will
not suit their purpose — the Pittsburg smelters not under-
standing their business quite as well as the 'effete
Europeans' over whose backwardness we sometimes see
much sarcastic criticism.''
New South Wales. — The central station for the
borough of Redfern, Sydney, New South Wales, has been
fitted with an alternate-current machine, manufactured by
Messrs. Mather and Piatt, of Salford. The dynamo is
designed to give 120 amperes at 1,000 volts, running at
400 revolutions, the frequency being 80 per second. The
following technical particulars are given : The resistance
of the magnets is 16 ohms, and of the armature '11 ohm,
while the exciting current raquired is '5 ampere. Hence
the electrical efficiency at full load is 98'4 per cent., and
still higher at half load : a better result than has ever been
attained in continuous-current dynamos. Careful tests
have been made on the commercial efficiency of a similar
machine of somewhat smaller size, by driving it from a
motor of known efficiency and absorbing the power gene-
rated by the alternator in a non-inductive water resistance.
These tests show a commercial efficiency of 92 per cent
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17, 1892.
579
CheltenbanL^At the monthly meeting of the Chel-
tenham Town Council last week Mr. Norman propoaed the
adoption of the mioutea of the Electric Lighting Committee.
According to these the town clerk bad reported that Prof.
Ayrton had accepted the proposak of the committee, in
accordance with the teima of their resolution of 20th June,
that he had since been down to Chelteoham, had inspected
the locaiitiea proposed to be lighted and the suggested
sites for the central station, had seen the chairman, the
borough surveyor, and himself, and had euggeated a prac-
tical experiment in the Promenade of the incandescent
lighting; and that Prof. Ayrton had seen sent in an interim
report. This had been laid before the committee. At a
eecond meeting the subject had been further considered,
and in accordance with Prof. Ayrton's suggestion that the
committee should confer with him in town, when he would
be able to show them the St. Pancms and other lighting
systems, it was resolved that the committee should arrange
an interview. Mr, Lawrence seconded the motion, which
waa agieod to.
Electric Laancbes on tbe River. — We notice that
several improvoments have lately been made in some of tbe
electric launches now running on the river. The " Myionu,'
Captain Homfray's favourite boat, has been fitted up with
Epstein accumulators, and bad a new " W & R " motor
placed in faer. This enubles her to run at a much higher
speed than formerly ; with the exception of the " Metadel "
she is said to be the fastest electric launch on the river.
It ia also found to be a great convenience to be able to
charge the accumulators at the rate of ftO amperea,
as this enables the cells to be fully charged in about three
hours instead of six, as formerly. A number of improve-
ments have also been made in the " Pioneer," including the
fitting up of a new motor. The steering gear has been
carried forward to enable a neat cabin to be put over her.
She is now being used by the officera of the 3rd Battalion
Grenadier Guards at Windeor, and, thanks to the aimplicity
of the new patent single-lever switch fitted in her by her
makers, Messrs. Woodhouse and Eawson, they are able to
dispense with all assistance in working her.
Coimtry Town Lighting:. ^A corres|)ondent of the
Jmirnal of Gas Lighling criticises the balance-sheet of the
electric light company of Fareham, which, he says, has
earned £750, with an expenditure of Xl,100. The
company has been at work for only sixteen months, and has
not yet achieved a profit, from which it is argued that
electric light cannot be supplied in small country towns at
anything tike prices that could compare with those now paid
for gas. There are two things to be kept in view in these
discussions — one, that electric light is worth a good deal
more than gas, and can usually obtain a higher price ; and,
eecond, tbe comparison depends a good deal upon the price
of gas in the typical " small town." A difficulty has been
" irregularities " for the first year's service, now happily
surmounted. But it would be well to have the manager's or
the directors' views upon the comparative cost of gas
and electricity in Fareham — particulars which would
be interesting to engineers projecting central installations
for other small towns. In France, electric lighting in
country towns has progressed very rapidly during the last
two years, and there ia no real reason why the same should
not be the case in Great Britain. In Ireland, where the
price of gas is higher, considerable success has been obtained.
^eBting. — We have received the scale of fees from tbe
Electrical Standardising, Testing, and Training Institution.
This institution undertakes, besides college work, the test-
ing of instruments and the inspection and certification of
electrical installations. Tbe standardising or calibration of
instruments is carried out at 7s. 6d. pec instrument, with
a reduction per dozen or above ; marking scales of new
instruments is the same, while "standardising" meters,
alternate or direct, including table of percentage errors
and constant at load specified, is half a guinea, with reduc-
tion on a quantity ; and experimenting and reporting on
new meters can be done at a guinea. Further than this,
large work is undertaken, and inspecting, testing, and
reporting on plant up to £500 value is carried out at 2J
per cent., special terms above that amount, while inspection
of bouse wiring can be obtained at half a guinea per 25
lamps. The institution also " contracts with local authori-
ties to fulfil all the statutory obligations of inspectors
under the Electric Lighting Acta"; it investigates and
reports upon new inventions ; and for inventors in the
process of inventing there are private experimental
rooms at SOs. a week, with current to be had at Is. per
10 ampere-hours, an arrangement which is likely to bs
appreciated.
Perpetual Syphon. — Mr. Thomas Caink, engineer
and surveyor, writing to us from Malvern Link with
reference to the "perpetual syphon" patented by M.Berlin,
claims that anyone is now at liberty to use such a syphon,
as it was tbe subject of a patent taken out by him in
1884, which has since expired. The patent was for an
automatic pressure- changing gas governor, in conjunc-
tion with which the syphon was employed. The
following is the description given of the syphon part :
"One of the legs of a syphon pipe which has the
lower end of each leg turned upwards or otherwisa
' sealed,' extends from the bottom of one of the chambers
through the top of the holder ; the other leg extends
downwards, outside tbe gasholder tank, and terminates
with its open end on a level with the open end of the
other leg of the syphon. This arrangement enables
the syphon, when once charged, to remain charged
indefinitely, even though neither leg may be immersed
in the water." Mr. Caink adds that in January, 1886, he
provisionally protected a useful modification of this syphon
in conjunction with an improved zinc-copper sulphate cell,
tor the purpose of drawing off the zinc-sulphate solution.
Its form enables tbe lower and denser portion of the
liquid to be removed by merely adding water to the upper
portion until the solution is reduced to the required density.
Hiffh-Tension Experiments. — Mr. L. Pyke is ex-
hibiting some interesting high-tension apparatus at the
Society of Arts, shown in action at the sonic on Wednes-
day. The following is Mr. Pyke's description : It has
hitherto not been possible to work any considerable
number of vacuum tubes from one generating source, as
a tension sufficiently high could not be obtained suitable
for working a very large number in series. The nature of
the discbarge being disruptive, parallel working, as it is ordi-
narily underatood, is not possible. In the present instance,
however, the tubes are each connected with terminally-
connected inductors, themselves counterpoised against two
external conductors connected to the terminals of the trans-
former. By this means each tube takes a predetermined
portion of tbe discharge, the discharge being governed by
the aize of the foil inductor, by their distance from tbe
common inductor, and quality of the interposed dielectric
By this means beautiful effects can be obtained. The vacuum
tubes are lit by a Pyke and Harris transformer, tbe S.M.F.
employed being 100,000 volts, and tbe transformer is
so arranged that the liquid insulation may have as much
facility for circulating round and through same as is neces-
sary to keep down the temperature, and again to cool the
liquid insulator in its turn. The container is so aiTanged
that it may offer sufficient surface for this purpose. The
I whole is maintained free from moisture by some substance
580
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JtJNE i:^, 1892.
capable of decomposing same, situated in the circulating
system.
HiiTli-Speed Eleotiio Railway.— Dr. Wellington
Adams has expounded to the New York Club his projects
for a high-speed electric railway between St. Louis and
Chicago for the World's Fair next year. The proposed
line is 248 miles long. It will cost 6,000,000dol8. to build,
and if 10 per cent of the expected 30 million visitors travel
on the line a good profit would be assured. Two steam
central stations would be placed along the line, and at Wil-
mington there is 10,000 h.p. in water power which can be
used ; the line also passes over a coalfield. It is proposed to
break the line in four sections of 50 or 60 miles, each with
its generating station, and the syndicate, it is said, have
already 60 per cent of the right of way. The line will be
absolutely straight, and the run is to be made, at 100 miles
an hour, in 2^ hours. Dr. Adams thinks the railway will
draw better than theEiffel Tower did at Paris. They are now
building one car and two trucks ; the driving wheels are
6ft diameter; themotorswill weigh 6,1321b., and will develop
200 h.p. at 500 revolutions. They expect to use the rotary-
current multiplex system, generated at 500 volts and trans-
formedup to 25,000 volts, and down again at sub-stations. The
line will be divided into sections of 10 miles each, with
transformer stations. Each motor will take 100 amperes
picked up with broad contacts from suspended trolley
wires. Electric brakes will be used. Mr. 0. T. Crosby
and Prof. Forbes were at the lecture, and Prof. Forbes was
said to have been seen making calculations on his cuff, each
of which was followed by a smile. Dr. Adams, however,
seems in earnest
Southampton Royal Pier. — The lighting of New
Boyal Pier, Southampton, opened by H.RH. the Duke of
Connaught, K.G., on Thursday, 2nd June, is accomplished
throughout by the electric light, the current being supplied
from the local supply company's station. The installation
is divided into three circuits, each controlled by separate
switches on the switchboard. The switchboard is placed in
the cloakroom, and contains, besides the switches for the
three circuits, two ammeters and one voltmeter and the
usual fuse terminals for each circuit. The cables are
carried in cast-iron pipes securely fastened under the
decking and provided with inspection boxes every 20ft
apart, also service boxes at every lamp column. The lamp
columns are provided with two arms, each carrying
a clear glass globe containing three 50-c.p. lamps
at the height of 20ft from the deck. The light
on either arm can be switched off or on by means of
switches placed in the base of the column. At each of
the three landing stages is placed an ornamental arch 13ft.
high, with one 50-c.p. lamp suspended. In the open space
near the bandstand is fixed a lattice pole 45ft high,
carrying three 3,000-c.p. Crompton arc lamps, which light a
space of 30,000 square feet so effectually that small print
may be read easily at any part. The bandstand itself is
lighted by eight pendants, each carrying lamps of 16 c.p.
The lavatories, ticket offices, entrances, gangway, and the
pontoon railway station are all well lighted and provided
with suitable fittings. The work has been carried out by
the contractor, Mr. F. Shalders, of Southampton, assisted
by Mr. T. Davis, under the supervision of Mr. J. G. W.
Aldridge, 9, Victoria-street, S.W., electrical engineer to the
Harbour Board.
Eleotrio Sfubmaiine Boat.— Considerable interest
has been recently excited in America by the practical trials
of an electric submarine boat built by Mr. George C. Baker,
of Chicago, at Detroit A representative of the Western
Electrician was the first passenger on this strange craft, and
in the issue for June 4th gives some account of his ex-
periences, with a section and many photographs of the boat
in action. The boat is built of oak strips 6in. wide, nailed
flat side together, covered with steel sheathing, and is 40ft.
long, cigar-shaped, the centre being 13ft deep by 8ft across,
and the boat weighs 75 tons loaded. It has a 60-h.p. boiler
inside, driving a 35 nominal horse-power engine, which
is used to drive a dynamo for charging cells. The elec-
trical equipment consists of a 50-h.p. Jenney motor and 232
Woodward cells. The motor is wound for 220 volts and
a maximum speed of 900 revolutions. It is geared to two
four-bladed screws to run at 300 revolutions. When
running as generator the dynamo is speeded up to 1,025
revolutions. The cells are charged at any convenient spot ;
then the fire is put out and the smoke-stack drawn down.
Water ballast is let in, and the boat is submerged to the
required depth, the maximum depth attained on the trip
being about 10ft. This trip was for 35 minutes, but after-
wards the boat was closed and run part of the time above
and part under water for two hours and 44 minutes. A
curious feature about this vessel is that no special provision
is made at present for freshening the air. Mr. Baker thinks
that two men could live in the closed boat for several hours
and not suffer for air, and for trips of an hour no incon-
venience is felt. The boat is calculated to stand with safety
the pressure of the water at 150ft below the surface, or
751b. to the square inch.
Taunton. — The Council have instructed the surveyor
(Mr. J. H. Smith) to prepare a scheme and estimate for
increasing the electric lighting of the town by seven new
lamps, and at the same meeting the report of the Electric
Lighting Committee was adopted to the following effect :
'' Your committee have, in pursuance of the instructions
given them by the Council, had interviews with the
directors of the electric lighting company, and recom-
mend the Council — 1. To instruct the town clerk to take
the necessary steps to obtain a license to supply electricity
at the earliest possible time. 2. To enter into a contract
with the company to purchase the whole of the buildings,
plant, and works of the company for X9,300, and to com-
plete the purchase as soon as possible, subject to the sanc-
tion of the Local Government Board to the borrowing of
the money required for the purchase and extension
of the business, and without prejudice to the exist-
ing contract with Mr. Massingham for lighting the
borough, the company undertaking to cancel their
agreement with Messrs. Laing, Wharton, and Down
before the completion of the purchase. 3. To authorise
this committee to take the necessary steps to carry out the
foregoing recommendation. Your committee have asked
the Lighting Committee to prepare a scheme for the exten-
sion of the electric light of the town by the addition of
seven new lamps. Your committee have enquired of the
Local Grovemment Board whether, in case the Council
shall purchase under a license and temporarily borrow the
necessary money for a short period, there will be any tech-
nical difficulty in afterwards borrowing a sufficient sum to
cover such temporary loan and carry out the necessary
extension, the last-mentioned sum to be repayable by instal-
ments extending over a long period. Your committee hope
to receive a reply from the Local Government Board,
and to lay the same before your Council meeting on the
14th inst"
Alternators In Parallel.— The question of working
alternate-current machines in parallel is one that has a
fascination, as well as a great importance, for electrical
engineers. In the large central stations of the future the
possibility of coupling alternators in parallel will evidently
be utilised if gain, either in economy or efficiency, is to be
obtained, and the accounts of experiments or runs with
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17, 1892.
^1
parallel coupled alternators will have a value as guide. Mr.
E, G. Pink, recently chief engineer to the Electricity Supply
Company of Madrid, during the first week in Novem-
ber last year, made a series of interesting experiments
in this direction with success. At the Madrid station there
are six alternators of El well-Parker make, 100-unit
machines, supplying at 2,000 volts various high-tension
circuits in the town, and for the theatres and caf68. Four
dynamos are usually required at times of highest load, and
these four dynamos were run in parallel during the
week in question. The process was as follows : When
the current from the first dynamo showed about 30
amperes on the ammeter, the second machine was got
in step. A test lamp arranged in the usual way was used,
the primary being double, one wire from each dynamo, and
the lamp on the secondary showed by its steadiness when
the two machines were in step. The third and fourth
machines were put on from 6 to 9.30 p.m., and then switched
ofi* one after the other as the demand decreased. On a dark
night the second dynamo was switched on at 30 to 35
amperes, and on bright nights 45 to 50 amperes. The
working of the machines was perfectly successful, the rope
gearing ran evenly, and there was a reduced coal bill.
The only diflSculty was with the circuits, which had not been
arranged for a constant pressure at the station, and some
burnt rather too brightly when others were just right. The
circuits usually varied from 2,200 down to 2,040 volts, the
usual being 2,160 on full load. Mr. Pink arranged trans-
formers on his circuits when working in parallel, with
choking coil for the near circuits. The highest total
current was 176 amperes. The great advantage of such
parallel running would be in safeguarding the circuits.
Every alternator made can run 25 or 30 per cent, above
its normal for two or three hours ; if connected in parallel
three machines could in case of accident take the whole
load of four, without unduly severe strain, and this ad-
vantage, besides that of more economical running generally,
seems to indicate that parallel alternate-current running
will prove beneficial when properly arranged.
Eleotiio Railways. — We are glad to see there is good
prospect of another of the electric railway Bills becoming
law this session. Three opposing petitions which had been
deposited in the case of the measure to enable the Central
London Railway Company to make a further railway from
Mansion House to Liverpool-street having been withdrawn,
the Bill was on Wednesday brought before Mr. Courtney,
and duly passed as an unopposed piece of private legislation.
On Thursday it was proposed to suspend the standing
orders in its favour so that they may speedily reach the
Lords. The following information given before the com-
mittee will be interesting to electrical engineers: Mr.
Cripps, Q.C., in opening the case for the Great Northern
and City Railway, said the proposal was to construct a
line from Drayton Park to Moorgate-street, so that trains
on the main line of the Great Northern could run right
into the City. It was felt that the traffic of the Great
Northern was so enormous that it should not be
dealt with by any system of changing trains. Near
Drayton Park there would be a depdt for the
development of electricity. The engines of trains run-
ning through would be changed at Drayton Park, from
which station on to the City electrical lomotives would be
used. Sir Douglas Fox said they proposed to use a 16ft.
tunnel ; the steepest gradient was 1 in 45 for a short dis-
tance. The estimated cost was £1,199,325, to which must
be added £250,000 for the lifts, the electric installation, and
plant. They had satisfied themselves that it was perfectly
practicable to run a train with an electric engine, and
Messrs. Siemens Bros, were prepared to undertake it
Mr. Siemens gave evidence to the effect that electric trac-
tion could only be applied economically in cases where
there were frequent trains for long hours on account of the
large first outlay. Ue referred to the contract in America
to take the traffic of the Baltimore and Ohio Railway through
Baltimore by electric locomotives. Sir Henry Oakley, general
manager of the G.N.R, said there was no doubt rapid
changes of engines cou Id be made at Drayton Park, and he
could not doubt that such a line to the City would prosper.
Mr. Bell, general manager of the Metropolitan Railway, in
objecting, said his directors had tried to make arrangements
for experiments in electrical traction and had offered
favourable terms to electrical engineers, but without satis-
factory result. Other objections were heard, but the Bill
was reported for the third reading.
The Proposed Telephone System. — On Wednesday
Mr. Goschen's Select Committee of the House of Commons
met to consider the Telegraph Bill now before the House, which
proposes to authorise the expenditure of a million pounds,
drawn from the Consolidated Fund, for the development of
the telephonic system of the United Kingdom, and in
particular with a view to purchase the main lines of
telephonic communication already existing. In the
absence of the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Sir James-
Fergusson took the chair. Mr. J. C. Lamb, assistant secre-
tary to the General Post Office, confessed that telephones
had made a difference in the telegraph revenue. From a
return made some time ago it appeared that in a given
period the rate oi increase of the telegraphic business of the
whole country was 108 per cent., whereas in the same period
the rate of increase between busy districts where telephone
wires were laid was much less, ranging even as low as 30
per cent. In answer to the chairman, the witness said that
it was proposed to relinquish the charge now made to
the companies for telegraph and for wires connected
with local post offices. In the case of railway com-
panies a commission of 1^. a message was made, and
the railway companies had to provide the operator, to
take the message over the counter, and to transmit the
message ; the telephone companies, on the other hand, had
not these expenses. It was also proposed to allow the
telephone companies to use the houses and shops of some
post offices as call offices. These concessions were made
to the telephone companies on condition of their giving
up their trunk lines. It was proposed to confer by
the Bill moderate statutory powers on the companies
for the erection of overhead wires, and to place
them under obligation to obtain the consent of the
local authorities. The Post Office intended to establish
main lines between London and Belfast and Edin-
burgh, and branches to other centres. About JC400,000
would be spent in additional lines, and £600,000 would,
he thought, enable them to purchase the trunk lines and
fill up gaps. In answer to Sir Richard Temple, the
witness said that there was no telephonic communication
at present between England and Ireland, and it was
part of the Government scheme to establish one by
submarine cable. Mr. R. Hunter, solicitor to the
Post Office, stated that he had prepared some amend-
ments to meet the views of municipal corporations.
Mr. J. S. Forbes, chairman of the National Telephone
Company, said that at the present time the telephone com-
panies conducted a great deal of their business very badly,
but this was the fault of Parliament in not allowing them
the necessary powers. He thought the Government should
either take over the companies altogether or co-operate
with them in carrying on the telephonic service. The best
means of doing that would be to give the companies further
powers. The committee adjourned till Thursday.
582
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17, 1892.
A NEW SYSTEM OF ELECTRIC PROPULSION.*
BY H. WARD LEONARD.
In the distribution of electricity from a power station
for the operation of electric railways the only commercial
method to-day is by the use of a system of constant E.M.F.
operating the motors in multiple arc with each other, and
at the present time every consideration of economy and
automatic regulation seems to indicate that the constant
E.M.F. multiple-arc system will always be the best for
such distributions.
In the use of electric energy by motors operating under
conditions of varying speed and torque the best results as
regards economy and regulation are obtained when the
electric energv utilised has a voltage varying directly as
the speed ana a current varying directly as the torque,
for it is evident that under these conditions the electric
energy required will be always proportional to the power
developed.
If we could operate from the constant-potential system a
shunt-wound motor running at a constant speed and could
interpose between this motor and the axle some device
equivalent in its effect to an infinite number of different
sets of mechanical gears, so that we could make use of any
reduction desired, it would enable us while using a constant
power to increase the torque as we decreased the speed and
vice versdf which is just what is desired in railway practice
where the least torque is required when at full speed on
the level and the greatest torque is required at the slow
speed in starting and in operating on a grade. Numerous
and very ingenious devices have been invented for accom-
plishing this variable mechanical reduction, but on account
of the complication, noise, and unreliability, they have
never proved successful.
The writer has recently devised an electrical method of
securing all the results which could be obtained from such
a set of gears described, with a freedom from the noise,
wear, complication, and rigidity which such a set of
gears would necessarily involve. The following is
a general description of the arrangement proposed :
Each axle is driven by a gearless motor, either directly
or by means of a connecting rod. The fields of
these motors are excited directly from the constant
E.M.F. of the line and independentlv of the armature
circuit. Beneath the car and between the axles there
is suspended a motor-generator, each armature winding
being in a separate field. The motor portion of the
motor-generator — which will, for convenience, be called
the power converter — ^is shunt wound and connected just
as a shunt motor is for use upon ordinary constant-
potential circuits. The field of the generator portion of
the power converter has its field connected across the line
and has inserted in it a regulating and reversing field
rheostat. This field circuit is independent of the armatuse
circuit. The generating armature of the power converter
is in metallic connection with the armatures of the gearless
propelling motors. It will be noticed that this circuit,
including the armature, is a distinct and separate metallic
circuit having no connection with the line in any way.
Suppose now that our shunt motor is running at full
speed, and that our controlling rheostat in the generator
field circuit is at its central position, so that the generator
field circuit is broken. Although the generator armature
is being driven at full speed it is revolving in a field having
no magnetism except the residual magnetism, and hence
produces practically no volts. Let us now move our con-
trolling switch so as to place the generator field across the
line, but with a resistance in series with the field, of 10
times the resistance of the field coils. We now get a slight
excitation of the field and a development of volts at the
brushes of perhaps 40 volts. This voltage will produce a
current through the armatures of the driving motors depen-
dent upon the ohmic resistance of this circuit only ; and
hence, even at this low voltage, a large current will be pro-
duced, which, being in a field of full strength, will cause a
torque sufficient to start the armature. The speed of the
armature will of course be governed by the counter E.M.F.
which its revolution produces in its strong field; and
* Paper read before a General Meeting of American Electrical
Engineertf at Chicago, June 6th.
hence, just as in the case of a shunt-wound motor, its
speed will be practically constant so long as the E.M.F.
supplied is constant.
If we now gradually increase the magnetic field of the
generator by cutting out resistance by moving the con-
trolling switch, we will gradually raise the E.M.F. of the
armature circuit, and with it the speed of the driving
motors. Since these armatures are revolving in a con-
stant field, the torque they produce will be exactly pro-
portional to the current in them, and the current will
automatically ffow exactly as is required to produce the
necessary torque to maintain a speed such that the counter
E.M.F. will approximately equal the E.M.F. supplied by
the power converter. Thus it will be seen that the speed
of the car will be dependent upon, and proportional to, the
E.M.F. supplied by the power converter, and the torque or
tractive effort will be dependent upon, and proportional to,
the current supplied by the power converter.
Let us suppose that 60 amperes flowing through the
armatures in fully excited-fields will produce a torque
' sufficient to move the load when upon a grade. It is
evident from what we have seen that 40 volts from the
power converter will produce this current. Hence, by an
expenditure of 2,400 watts in the secondary circuit, or a
total power, including field excitation, etc., of about 8 h.p.,
we can start a fully-loaded car upon a grade.
Under the existing systems, we would need the same 60
amperes in the same fully-excited field, but would neces-
sarily use the full voltage of 500 volts, and, therefore
consume energy represented by 30,000 watts, as against
possibly 6,000 in this system. The current from the line
in starting the car under ordinary conditions by this
system would be about 12 amperes at 500 volts, instead of
from 60 to 100 amperes at 500 volts.
In practice, the controlling switch lever can be instantly
thrown from its central position to its extreme position
for full speed. The field magnetism of the generator is
rapidly increased, and consequently also its E.M.F., which
in turn causes a gradual acceleration of the car.
The current in the armature circuit, and consequently
the torque, is quite large in the beginning; but the
E.M.F. at this time is quite low, so that the total watts
are low ; as the inertia is overcome and the counter E.M.F.
begins to approximate to the impressed E.M.F. the cur-
rent falls off and finally becomes constant at an amount
necessary to produce the torque required to maintain
the speed. The current from the line, and hence the
power, gradually increases from zero to the amount re-
quired at full speed, but at no time, either at the start
or during the acceleration, is the energy from the line
greater than that required when we are operating at full
speed. It will be noticed that the effect is the same as
though we first operated through a set of gear wheels,
giving an extremely great reduction of speed and then
rapidly changed the ratio of gearing, until finally we
operated at full speed, with no reduction.
With our hypothetical gears we could, when running at
speed, rapidly increase the ratio of gearing so that the
movement of the car would tend to drive the shunt motor
faster and faster. This would convert it into a generator
forcing current back into the system, which production of
electrical energy would act as a brake and gradually bring
the car to rest.
Just so, if, while - running a full speed, we suddenly
place our switch lever at its central position the field of
the generator will gradually reduce the strength, and the
counter E.M.F. of the propelling motors will soon
exceed that of the generator. The momentum of the car
will now be driving our gearless motors as generators,
which will supply current to the former generator,
operating it as a motor, causing it to drive the shunt motor
coupled to it, as a generator, which, in supplying energy to
the line, will act as a brake, and smoothly but rapidly bring
the car to rest by converting the energy stored up and
represented in the movement of the car into electrical
energy, which will tend to relieve the work at the central
station. Similarly, a car descending a grade and tending
to accelerate in speed can be made to move at any
desired speed without the aid of any mechanical brakes
and the energy represented by its falling weight will
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17, 1892.
583
TABLE I.— Duty op Car : Showing Various Losses Expressed in Watts.
8 tons at 12 miles per hour
on level.
8 tonB at 3 miles (or 6 tons at 5 miles)
per hour on 6 per cent, grade.
8 tons at 1^ miles per hour
on level.
Various losses
involved.
Full speed, 1-16 full torque ; armature
current, 10 amperes.
i full speed, full torque ; armature
current, 60 amperes.
1-10 full speed, 1-6 full torque ; arma-
ture current, 10 amperes.
Power converter.
Drivinff
motors.
Power converter.
Driving
motors.
Power converter.
Driving
Motor part.
Gen. part.
Motor part.
Gen. part.
Motor part.
Gen. part.
motors.
Field
250
160
60
200
276
60
60
400
260
60
120
400
260
250
60
200
60
2,000
60
60
260
2,000
30
60
250
20
60
200
25
60
30
10
250
C* R in armature ...
Friction
60
10
Foucault currents,
hysteresis, etc. ...
10
Total
670
795
830
760
2,170
2,330
530
125
330
Total watts wasted
Watts of work done
Total watts ab-
sorbed
2,295
4,000
fi.28i>
5,280
6,000
985
400
1 .^R
Amperes at 50 V, ...
12-6
22-5
2-8
be converted into electric energy and the car will
become a moving feeder supplying energy to assist the
generators at the central station in the operation of other
cars.
It will be evident from what has preceded that with this
power converter system we can propel a car upon any
practicable grade with a consumption of power no greater
than is required to operate the car at full speed upon a
level, by merely reducing the speed to the required extent
In street railways of from five to ten cars, this is of great
importance, for it means that we can equip a road with
about 6 h.p. per car, as regards the engines and dynamos,
and that our conductors can be reduced to about one-third
of the amount at present necessary, for we will never
require more than 20 amperes at the distant point, where
to-day we have to provide for 60 amperes with the same
loss and same initial E.M.F.
Under the rheostat system the plant is severely taxed
when an unusual crowd must be moved from a certain
point, and it is then, when it is of the greatest importance
that no breakdown should occur, that in usually does occur.
With this power converter system we could, upon a five-car
road, start up and move with perfect safety 10 or even 20
cars from the most distant point on the road, though, of
course, at a reduced speed, but the crowd would be handled
with perfect success and without subjecting any portion of
the plant to any unusual strain.
In the large cities it is no unusual sight to see an electric
car moving at the slowest possible speed for perhaps several
blocks. Perhaps 12 amperes are required to obtain the
necessary torque. This at 500 volts is 6,000 watts. The
power required for this slow motion by the proposed
system would not exceed one-fifth of this amount.
The following tabulated statement (Table I.) shows the
results we may expect to obtain by this system in operat-
ing with a fully-loaded car under three different conditions :
First, at 12 miles per hour on the level ; second, at three
miles per hour on 5 per cent, grade ; and third, at one mile
per hour on level.
In arriving at the losses, as indicated, the motor part
of the power converter has been assumed as having the
following features: E.M.F., 500 volts; current capacity for
10 hours' continuous duty, 15 amperes; resistance of shunt
field winding, 1,000 ohms; armature resistance, I'l ohms.
The generator portion of the power converter and the
driving motor are assumed as having the following features :
RM.F., 500 volts ; current capacity for 10 hours' continuous
duty, 40 amperes ; resistance of field, 900 ohms ; armature
resistance, 055 ohm. The rolling friction with gearless
motors on good level track is assumed as 201b. per ton.
Gar is assumed to be eight tons in weight full loaded, and
five tons for moderate Icm^.
We find that with 12 tons moving at 12 miles per hour
on a level we will require 12 6 amperes, which is prac-
tically the same as by present series motor systems. With
eight tons moving at three miles per hour upon a 5 per
cent, grade 22*5 amperes will be required, which is abou
one-third of the power required by present systems.
With eight tons at one mile per hour on level 2*8 amperes
will be required, which is about one-fifth of by present
systems. With five tons moving at five miles per hour
on 5 per cent, grade 18*5 amperes will be required,
which is about 40 per cent, of the power required by
present systems.
Let us examine some of the advantages that this method
seems to offer over the existing methods, starting at the
car and considering the entire equipment back to the boiler.
In order to place before you the opinions of some of the
best authorities on the questions involved, I shall quote
freely from "The Electric Bail way" (Crosby and ]Bell);
Parshall's " Methods of Electrically Controlling Street Oar
Motors," "Comparative Test of High and Low Speed
Engines in Electric Railway Work," by Charles W. Wason
{Electrical Engineer, April 27, 1892); "The Practical
Operation of the Gearless Motor," by S. H. Short (Electrical
JForld, April 16, 1892); " Load Dia^ms of Electric Tram-
ways and the Cost of Electric Traction," by A, Reckenzaun
(Electrical Engineer, London, March 25, 1892).
The cost of car equipment will be increased by the cost
of the motor-generator, but as a partial offset to this we
have saved the rheostats, two expensive controlling switches,
and a complex system of wiring. Our motors, having
constant and fully-excited fields, will operate absolutely
without spark under all conditions. The control of the
car will be entirely accomplished by a small switch and
rheostat, handling never more than one-half of an ampere
and occupying a space of 1ft square and lin. deep over all.
As regards efficiency, we will have the advantages of
the present system under all conditions. For long runs
upon the level we will, by a suitable switch, connect the
driving motors directly to the line and secure an efficiency
of 90 per cent for our motor. As regards depreciation,
we will have the advantage of no rheostats or controlling
switches to burn out, and with no sparking and no connec-
tion with the field circuit we will have the minimum
liability of burning out armatures. Our fields will have no
tendency to burn out, since they are not subject to the
excessive currents which the present series fields are. The
current in our fields will be independent of the load.
As to field windings and rheostats in existing methods,
Parshall says : " With 25-h.p. motors, an external resist-
ance of 10 to 12 ohms is required. Lessening the duty of
the rheostat is a very important point, since as yet it has
been found exceedingly difficult to construct a cheap rheo-
stat that could be placed under the car in the small space
available and dissipate bo large an amount of energy as is
required when the car is to be run for a considerable time
at a speed so low as two or three miles an hour. Any
method of control that has lessened the energy to be dissi-
pated in the rheostat has in general been considered with
favour, since there has been a corresponding diminution of
trouble in each case that the energy to be dissipated has
584
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17, 1892.
been lessened. The range of speed without the use of a
rheostat is determined by the limit to which it is safe to
heat the magnets."
Crosby and Bell say : ^' In using this method (commu-
tated fields) the principal difficulty has been met with in
disposing of the excessive heat necessarily generated in the
compact mass of field windings. The practical problem has
been to secure a convenient rheostat. The principal
sources of loss in our present street railway motors are the
regulating devices and the gearing. With the motors and
the gearing generally employed, the average commercial
efficiency of the combination is probably not often in
excess of 65 per cent., giving a total commercial efficiency
for the system, from engine to car wheel, of 39 per cent.
This, of course, is but an estimate ; but taking all the
factors into consideration it is probable that the average of
the roads now in operation would fall quite nearly to the
point indicated. In very few cases would it fall below 30
per cent. ; in still fewer would rise about 40 per cent."
Regarding the power required to start a car on existing
methods, and to operate it upon level grades, Crosby and
Bell say : " With the ordinary car equipment of two 15-h.p.
motors, and the usual speeds, from eight to twelve miles per
hour, experience has sho¥m that five to six electrical horse*
power is necessary on nearly level tracks. The amount of
current ordinarily taken in starting a car is momentarily
more than 50 amperes, which at the ordinary voltage cor-
resDonds to about 25,000 watts."
Seckenzaun sa^s : ^' If we calculate from the accepted
coefficients of resistance to traction on common tram rails,
we find that an ordinary tramcar will require about three
to four horse-power for its propuLuon when once in motion."
He says of Thomson-Houston car : " The maximum cur-
rent at any time was 75 amperes." Of Sprague motors :
" Here again we observe a maximum current of 75 amperes.
Westinghouse motors, maximum current 95 amperes."
Short finds that 80 to 100 amperes are required to start
a car and says : " On this road the traffic is very heavy,
although grades are light."
Leaving the car, let us now consider the line. It will be
evident from what we have seen that we can reduce the
amount of copper to one-half the present requirements, as
we never will require the enormous currents at present
called for in starting and upon heavy grades. Or, to put
it in another way, with the existing conductors we could
run twice as many cars as at present, with the same loss in
the conductors.
Now, let us look at the generators and the prime movers,
whether steam engines or waterwheels. Under existing
systems for roads of from five to ten cars, it is necessary
to install about 20 i.h.p. (rated at ^ cut-off) per car and
about 16 kilowatts per car in generators. Also about
20 h.p. per car in boiler capacity. This large equipment
is necessitated by the occasionally very large demands for
power and the inefficiency consequent upon this.
Under the proposed system it is not necessary to provide
power in excess of 15 h.p. for any car under any conditions,
and since in practice most of the cars will be operating at
less power than this, we need only install engine, dynamo,
and boiler capacity of 8 h.p. per car, instead of 20. Or, to
express it another way, we can operate with existing
boilers, engines, and dynamos at least the double the
number of cars they can at present supply.
Crosby and Bell recommend, for a five-car road : '* An
equipment consisting of two 40,000-watt dynamos, one
80h.p. high speed simple engine belted directly to them,
and two boilers of about 50 nominal horse- power each."
Now let us look at the economy of the operation of the
station. With the extremely fluctuating loads of existing
systems, the economy of the entire generating plant is very
low. The stations of three roads which have been tested
give for the combined efficiency of engine and dynamo
40 per cent., 54*6 per cent., and 62*8 per cent, respectively.
If the load can be kept approximately constant, the com-
bined efficiency of engine and generator should be about
75 per cent., and in the proposed system the load will be
sufficiently uniform for us to expect an efficiency equal to
this, and because of the nearly constant load we can
produce a horse-^wer on about 251b. of water, while in
present practice for small roads about 501b. of water per
horse-power is a fair figure, and the best published result
thus far obtained, even when the average horse-power rose
to 750 h.p., is 281b. per horse-power, as found by Wason,
at Cleveland, in operating a total of 71 motor cars.
With the present systems the average indicated horse-
power per car is about 12 h.p., which, on account of
fluctuating load, requires at least 361b. of water per horse-
power, or about 4201b. of water per car per hour.
With the proposed system we will operate with an
average of about 8 ih.p. per car, which, on account of the
steady load, will be produced with about 251b. of water per
horsepower, or 2001b. of water per car per hour. That is
we require about 501b. of coal per car per hour by present
systems, and about 251b. of coal per car per hour by pro-
posed system, or a saving of 50 per cent, in the coal and
water required in favour of the proposed aysteok
On this subject of fluctuating loads and their effect,
Crosby and Bell say: "A record of 10 minutes on a
recording ammeter may give some faint idea of the con-
dition of things. It will be seen that at one point the
output jumped from zero to 150 h. p. and back inside of a
single minute, and during the latter five minutes shown in
the diagram there were no less than 25 sudden variations
of 50 h.p. to 100 h.p., each taking place within a few
seconds. The road from which this record was obtained is
four miles in length, and was operating seven cars at the
time of the test.
Beckenzaun says : "These abrupt changes have the
effect of reducing the efficiency of the whole system to a
comparatively low figure."
Church says {Electrical Engineer, April 27, 1892) that
the best compound engines will show an economy of only
281b., and the usual compound engine an average duty not
better than 351b. to 401b. The same is true of every form
of non-compounded engine, whether high speed or low speed,
both of which show a tremendous falling back of fuel duty
under variable load.
Let us now examine the comparative first cost of a rail-
way of moderate size — say, from five to ten cars — equipped
by present systems and by the proposed system. The
detailed figures per car are given in Table IL
Table U. — Showing Pbobabls Compabative Fibst Costper Cab
BY Present and Pboposed System.
Present Propoaed
system, system.
Steam plant, generators and conductors per car
(steam plant 1,000, generators 700, oon-
ductorsSOO) $2,200 ... $1,100
Motors (two 15-h. p. equipments) 1,8(X) ... 1,400
Power converter 0 ... 900
Controlling switches, cables, rheostats, etc. ... 200 ... 30
Total first cost per car 4,200 ... 3,430
Saving in favour of proposed system per car ... — ... 770
Table III. gives a summary showing the features of the
proposed system as compared with the corresponding
features of the present system.
Table HI.
Present
system.
First cost of steam plant, generators, con-
ductors, and car equipment per ear $4,200
Amperes at 600 volts required to start full
load on level
Amperes at 500 volts for full load at full
speed on level
Amperes at 5(X) volts to start full load on 5
per cent, grade
Amperes at 500 volts for working speed on
5 per cent, fi^rade
Amperes fed back to system in coming down
6 per cent, grade
Pounds of coal per car per hour
76
12-6
126
eo
0
60
Proposed
eystem.
.. $3430
2-8
12-5
10
22-5
10
25
The features of the proposed system which seem, at
first sight, to be very objectionable are : The increased cost
of the car equipment and the fact that we are adding an
additional machine, having two fields, two armatures, and
three bearings : but, as we have seen, there is only an
apparent increase in the first cost, for the saving in the
generators and distributing plant far exceeds the addi-
tional cost of the car equipment ; and the use of the motor-
generator for elevators, travelling cranes, etc., has demon-
strated that, as regards the attention it requires and the
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17, 1892.
58S
depreciation it aufisrs, it has a marked advantage over the
rheostat or commutated field used in the present methods
of operation.
SHIPLI6HTING.
The lighting of ships was one of the first great fields of
uaefulnasB in which the electric light proved ite efficiency,
and while central installations are springing up oa land on
every side, the department of shiplighting still continues
as busy as aver. The following ship ioBtallatioDB com-
Sleted during the past month by the Newcastle firm,
[easrs. J. H. Holmes and Ca, bear telling witness of the
cootinued acUvity in this branch of electric '•-'■*■■ —
strong, Mitchell, and Co., which will make a total of 18
boats of this class lighted for that company, besides petro-
leum boats for other companies. It is a class of boat which
requires very special attention to details, owing to the
action of the petroleum vapour on the fittings and wires,
and the danger which might accrue from the occurrence of
any spark. The Holmes coupled plant running at about
250 revolutions per minute, fitted with automatic expansion
governor was used, givine 70 volte and 300 amperes. Each
arc lamp is run on an independent circuit having separate
lead and return from the main switchboard in the engine-
room, where all the resistances are placed.
" Skertyvare." — This boat sailed on June 9. The lengUi
over all is 360ft. ; breadth, extreme, 42ft. ; depth, moul<^,
29ft. 6in. ; gross tonnage about 3,100 tons. The vessel,
which has been built to the order of Measre. Farrar, Groves,
Co « Donp ed 3h p LlghUnE
" Le Profit." — This vessel has been specially built by
Messrs. W. G. Armstrong, Mitchell, and Co., for the service
of the Compagnie UniversoUe du Canal Maritime de Suez,
to convoy the large tank steamers which are intended to
trade to the East through the Suez Canal. The vessel is of
a special description, and is fitted with powerful pumps on
decK, so that in case of a ship being damaged or grounding,
the tank tug would immediately be able to pump out of
the large steamer and into her own tanks 500 tone of oil.
The tug will also carry a set of booms, which can be quickly
jointed together, forming a Soating cordon, so as to retain
within the cordon any oU which may have leaked on to the
surface of the water. This boat was fitted by Messrs. J. H.
Holmes and Co. with a powerful projector, two 20«mpere
arc lamps, and two lO^pere arc lamps, also 24 Id-c.p.
incandescente, and seven 60-o.p. incandescente. They have
orders to light five petroleum boats, for Sir W, Q. Arm-
and Co., of London, will claae 100 Al in Lloyds BegiOer,
and has been built nnder special survey. She is of the spar
deck type, with a half poop aft for accommodation of
captain and officers, and a half forecastle for crew, engi-
neers being berthed in a large house abaft engine casing.
She will be fitted with five steam winches, steam windlass,
extra large donkey-boiler, etocklees anchors, double derricks
to hatches, and every modern appliance for speedy loading
and discharging. The engines are by Messrs. Blair and
Co., Limited. Cylinders 24in., 40in., and 66in. by 4&in.
stroke, and two single-ended boilers, having a working pres-
sure of 1601b. The electric lighting plant was also fitted
by Messrs. J. H. Holmes and Co. On this boat they
installed 80 16c.p. incandescent lamps, a " Sues Canal "
projector, and arc lamp. The dynamo is driven by an
endless rope, over jockey pulley, frem a vertical engine.
The dynamo speed is S50 revolutiona per minute, giving
586
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17, 1892.
150 amperes and 65 volts. The dynamo is mounted on
sliding rails for taking up slack in the rope gearing.
" The Duke of iV«."— This vessel, built for the Dublin
and Olasgow Steam Packet Company, went last mouth on
her officii! trial trip in the Firth of Clyde. The vessel,
which has been specially designed for the company's cross-
channel trade, was built by the Ailsa Shipbuilding
Company, Troon, and engined by Messrs. Dunsmuir and
Jackson, Gk)van. Her gross tonnage is 997, her length
253ft., her breadth 31ft. 9in., and her depth 16ft. The
engines are of the triple-expansion type, with cylinders
26in., 41in., and 66in. in diameter^ and a stroke of 42in.
She runs at a speed of 15^ knots. This ship was installed
by Messrs. Holmes and Co. with 110 16-c.p. lamps on the
single-wire system. In cattle spaces all wires were lead-
covered, and their special cattle fitting was used, with cast-
iron lid for protection when this space is used for cargo.
The generating plant consisted of 7in. by 6in. vertical
engine, open type, automatic expansion governor, coupled
direct to Castle dynamo— 13in. armature, speed 275 revo-
lutions, giving 60 volts and 110 amperes.
''Nina Mendir^T\na is a steel ship 307ft. by 38-6ft. by
21ft., built to the order of Messrs. F. Mendl and Co.,
London, fitted with all modem appliances and improve-
ments. The engines are on the triple-expansion principle,
working on three cranks, and were supplied from the
Central Marine Works. The cylinders are 26in., 36^in.,
and 62in. diameter, with a piston stroke of 39in. ^e
boilers are of large size, built of steel, and give an ample
supply of steam at 1601b. working pressure. This boat
was fitted up with 75 lights, driven by Holmes's coupled
plant, fitted with automatic expansion governor, the speed
being about 330 revolutions per minute. On the trial it
was found impossible to detect any difference in voltage,
even when suddenly switching off three-quarters of the
load. Messrs. Holmes are now lighting the "Rosina
Mendl " for the same owners.
" Tasmania.^^ — This is an express steel screw passenger
steamer, built by Messrs. C. S. Swan and Hunter, Wallsend,
to the order of Messrs. Huddart, Parker, and Co., Limited,
of Melbourne and Sydney, and intended to augment their
already large fleet in Australasia. The vessel is about
300ft. long, and is fitted with very powerful machinery by
the Wallsend Slipway and Engineering Company, Limited,
Wallsend. Handsome accommodation is provided for over
200 passengers, complete with folding iron berths, folding
lavatories, marble baths with hot, cold, fresh, and salt-water
service laid throughout The saloon, which is the full
width of the ship, is very handsomely fitted, and over the
dining-saloon is a grand music-saloon. In a house forward
is the smoke-room, with walls of marble, and the floor of
this room, saloon, and all berths is laid with encaustic tiles.
Electric bells are fitted throughout, and no expense has
been spared to make the passenger accommodation as
luxurious and comfortable as possible. This ship sailed on
June 5, and was fitted with 170 16-o.p. lamps. It had two
coupled plants, each consisting of a vertical double-acting
engine, cylinders 7|in. diameter by 6in. stroke, at about 250
revolutions per minute, fitted with open-type automatic
expansion governors. The dynamos are of the Castle type,
slow-speed, 13in. armatures, giving 110 amperes at 60
volts. All fittings in the first-class accommodation are of
white metal, silver plated. The wiring is on the single-
wire system. Exposed wires are all protected by galvanised
iron wire sheathing.
In ships Messrs, J. H. Holmes and Co. never use wires
having an insulation resistance of less than 2,000 megohms
per mile. All the ships are wired on the deck distribution
system. A main switchboard is placed in the engine-room,
from which mains are taken to suitable distribution centres
and connected to an auxiliary switchboard, from which
branches are taken to the various groups of lights, each
branch being limited to 10 lights. All exposed fittings are
damptight and mechanically protected from injury. All
flexible cables are protected by a galvanised iron sheath.
Their ship installations give great satisfaction, and they are
now fitting up two similar ship to the " Tasmania," for the
same owners, with electric light and bells. In addition to
those mentioned, this energetic finji are at present engaged
on boats in Olasgow, Edinburgh, Liverpool, Sunderland,
Cardiff, Belfast, and other ports, and they have besides
several large land installations in hand, of which we hope
to give particulars shortly.
BRILLIE ELECTRICITT RECORDING WATTMETER.
We have this week had the opportunity of inspecting a
specimen of the Brilli^ meter, now being tested by the
Board of Trade. This meter has been brought over and
introduced in England by M. 6. P. Boux, who informs us
that there are already over 1,000 of these meters in use in
Prance. These have' been working for more than a year,
the principal users being the Continental Edison Company,
who have 500 ; the Soci^t^ pour I'Eclairage et le Trans-
port de la Porce, 200 ; and the Prench Perranti (Company,
the Popp Company, and others have together over
400 Brilli^ meters. These figures will serve to show
the importance accorded to tnis meter in Prance, and
electrical engineers will be interested in having a detailed
description, with illustrations, of the instrument
One of the principal objections urged against the pre-
sent type of electricity meters is their want of sensitiveness
at small currents. M. Brilli^ in his new meter, as ivill be
seen, has surmounted this difficulty in an ingenious manner.
His meter belongs to the category of motor meters, bat, in
contradistinction to all the other motor meters brought
forward up to the present time, this instrument has not to
conquer tne difficult}' of friction, which in this class of
meter is a constant source of error.
The Brilli^ meter comprises the following essential parts :
1. The electroKlynamometer, B I, of which the coil, B, is
carried by an axle. A, to which is suspended, by means of
stems, P, an annular disc of copper, D. i?his disc, D,
therefore forms one with the coil, B, of the dynamometer,
and turns with it The axle. A, of the bobbin is itself sus-
pended by a wire thin enough to make its torsion negli-
gible in comparison to the strength of the dynamometer.
Its displacement is, moreover, only through a few degrees.
2. A collection of small permanent magnets carried on an
axle, C, placed in the same axis as A. These magnets are
arranged so as to form a magnetic field traversing the disc,
D. The axle, C, carrying these magnets can be rotated at
various speeds by means of a motor, M. The direction of
rotation of the axle C and the direction of the displace-
ment of the coil, B, under the influence of the current to be
measured, are opposite ; these directions are indicated by
arrows in the figure.
The action of the meter is as follows : If the axle, C, of
the magnets is ratated, the displacement of the magnetic
field will cause local currents to be generated in the copper
disc, D ; these currents exercise a resisting couple upon C,
and, as reaction, a motor couple on A. These couples are
therefore equal between themselves, and exactly proportional
to the speed of rotation of C. In a word, the disc, D,
tends to be drawn round by the rotation of C with an effort
proportional to the speed of this axle. As the effort, in
the opposite direction, exercised by the electro-dynamo-
meter is proportional to the strength of the current^ if we
regulate by any convenient means the speed of C so as to
maintain the axle. A, constantly in equilibrium, then the
speed of C will be always proportional to the strength of
the current passing through B I, and it will suffice to count
the revolutions made by C to know the energy expended
in the time given.
The speed of the axle C is regulated automatically by
the movement of the axle A, which, in principle, makes
and breaks, as it oscillates, the contacts in the circuit of the
small electric motor, M. This simple contact is replaced in
practice by a small special regulating rheostat, R, which regu-
lates the speed of the motor by varying the current and not
by breaking the circuit, at any rate until a considerable
resistance without self-induction has been thrown in ;
sparking is therefore practically obviated.
The meter may be considered as composed of a powerful
motor, M, furnished with an extremely sensitive speed regu
later, formed by the magnetic pull of D, balanced against the
action of the electro-dynamometer, B I ; this speed governor
I'HE ELECTRICAL IJNGIKEER, JUNE 17, 189i
6&?
regulating the speed automatically as explained above, by
niaintainiDg it always proportional to the corrent paaaing
The starting of the meter takes place, therefore, as soon
aa the axle A is moved, the effort exercised by the motor,
M, being independent of the effort exercised by B I, and
in the position of maximum action, and the coil may be
wound with many turns of wire. It follows that the meter
consumes very tittle current in action. The resistance of
the fine-wire coil being 10,000 ohms for a 100-volt meter,
the consumption of current ia one watt As an example of
Bensitiveness of the Brilli^ meter, a lO-ampere meter starts
BriUle M«t«r— Showing Wotfa.
BrllUe Hatn-PIui.
depending for any given difference of potential only upon
the position of the regulating rheostat.
All the causes of error existing in similar instruments
due to counter £.M,F., to friction of brushes, of pivots, of
the air, etc., have no influence upon the exactitude of the
certainly for 0-05 ampere. A meter recently constructed
for 2,000 amperes starts at two amperes, or one-thousandth
of its total capacity.
This meter is equally good for alternate as for continuous
currents.
Brilli^ meter. These passive resistances are, in fact, over-
come by the motor, M, without modifying the speed it
should have at any given moment, any more than the load,
for instance, on a steam engine fitted with a good governor
influences its speed.
We have seen that the electrical meaaurine instrument
is an electro-dynamometer. This form of meaeuring
instrument is one which allows the current to be best utilised
to produce the greatest effect, all the turn* of wire being
BrOlla Httar-Bnd View.
In examining the Brillid meter, it seems at first sight a
little complicated, but the problem iteelf of measuring and
recording electrical energy is not a simple one, and the
instrument which thoroughly solves the problem must
necessarily be somewhat complicated, or else defective in
action.
The experience obtained with over 1,000 of these meters
now in use shows that in spite of its complicated appear*
anoe the Brilli6 meter gives most excellent practical results.
588
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17, 1892.
m
THE
ELECTRICAL ENGINEER.
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Notee 677
A New System of Electric
Propulsion 582
Shiplighting 585
Britlid Electricity Recording
Wattmeter 586
Traction 688
Correspondence 589
Dundee Electric Lighting... 589
Meters for Recording the
Consumption of Electrical
Energy 589
Some Points Connected with
the Electromotive Force
of Secondary Batteries ... 592
Electric Lighting in Dublin 593
Experiments with Alternate
Currents of High Poten-
tial and High Frequency 593
On the Measurement of tne
Magnetic Properties of
Iron 593
Physical Society 595
Blackpool 596
Chester 596
Canterbury 597
Companies* Meetings 598
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Business Notes 600
Provisional Patents, 1892 ... 600
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TRACTION.
It is somewhat disappointing to know that so very
little has been done in traction work on this side.
It seems that, so far as pluck and go are concerned,
this comitry is practically played out. Not only
have the Americans caught on so far as traction
work is concerned — and the greater part of what we
know about it is due to their experience — ^but they
are continually pushing ahead in new ventures and
suggestions. This will be seen from the exceedingly
interesting paper of Mr. H. Ward Leonard, which
we are enabled to give by the courtesy of Mr. Hammer,
who handed us an advance proof. The author of this
paper points out that in traction work *' the best re-
sults as regards economy and regulation are obtained
when the electric energy utilised has a voltage
varying directly as the speed, and a current varying
directly as the torque,** and he claims that his new
system fulfils these conditions. We may leave our
readers to digest Mr. Leonard's system, which is not
difficult to understand, although no diagrams are
given with the paper. Our purpose is not merely to
point out that the Americans are taking the lead of
us, but to urge those who have charge of the design
of central stations, and especially when these stations
are in the hands of the local authorities, to examine
into the possibility of using these as power stations for
the tramway work, Bradford set the local authori-
ties a good example in thoroughly testing the possi-
bilities of electric lighting even whilst owning the
gas works. It may be also that Bradford will do
much more. It is testing the value of electric energy
for tramway work, and the current is provided from
the central station. Assume that, as is usual, the
central station apparatus is fully loaded only two
hours out of the twenty-four. Of course with accu-
mulators it may always be worked at full load — but
for the moment put the accumulators away. To get
a constant full load you must supply current
for something other than lighting, and at present
the only other direction is for power. The use of
horse power for traction work is " cruelty to animals "
and a disgrace to civilisation. Electricity or some-
thing must take the place of horses, and there seems
to be no real reason why central stations should not
supply current for traction purposes generally. The
fact of the matter is that should electricity become
general for light and for power purposes, the current
for both must be supplied from the same central
station, otherwise we shall have two authorities, it
may be two companies, or a company on the one
hand and a local authority on the other, wanting to
lay mains along the streets. This is a course
which would tend to spoil the tempers of every-
body, and the extra cost would be objectionable.
When a trench is opened along a street the cost of
putting in the power circuit is very little more than the
cost of the conductor, but if separate trenches have
to be opened, one for the light and one for the
power circuit, it is easily seen that capital is saddled
with an unnecessary amount. It must come to pass,
then, if electricity is used, that the power be pur-
chased from the central station. These views
ought to be fully considered before complications
arise and legal and parliamentary action is com-
THE llLECtRlCAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17, 1892.
589
menced. Suggestions to consider these questions
in early days are always pooh-poohed. We are
told to wait till the difficulties are upon us, and
that publishing forebodings is opposed to the welfare
of the industry. The fact is that the hindrance to
progress comes from the very men who are averse
to take time by the forelock. They refuse to look
ahead and make arrangements to prevent future
difficulties, but when the troubles arise are found
busily whining and snarling at what they term the
idiocy of legal restrictions. We are again told that
if provision has to be made for power work, the
initial cost of installation will be much heavier, and
will frighten investors and local authorities. This is
sheer nonsense. The only question is, can electrical
energy be sold. If there is a demand for it, the initial
extra cost is not worth consideration. As yet no
systematic attempt has been made to endeavour to
supply any demand that might be obtained. A little
motor put in here and there presents no difficulty so
far as its supply is concerned : it is only when pro-
vision has to be made to supply a comparatively
large demand that a special power circuit is required ;
but it is just this large demand that is required to
put a continuous full load on the machinery, and it is
this continuous full load that commercial operations
requires. Summed up, our text is this : The
Americans have shown the practicability of elec-
tricity for traction work. Such use must ultimately
come here. The supply will be from central stations,
and in the design of these, provisions should be made
for the probable demand. Conflicting interests will
not be allowed full liberty to act on the roads and
streets, and it is better to be ready with rules and
regulations beforehand, rather than wait till the
work is to be carried out.
CORRESPONDENCE.
" One man's word is no man's word,
Justice needs that both be heard."
ELECTRIC LOCOMOTIVES.
Sir, — In your issue of June 3 you were good enough
to publish a correction of a passage in the new edition of
my " Dynamo-Electric Machinery. * I desire to supplement
this by saying that the statement that the electric loco-
motives supplied by Messrs. Mather and Piatt, Limited,
for woiking the City and South London Railway " are
DOW being replaced " by others, is not only technically in-
accurate, but altogether incorrect, and to express my regret
that inconvenience and annoyance should have been caused
to Messrs. Mather and Piatt by such a statement I now
learn from Messrs. Mather and Piatt that the rolling-stock
of the electric railway is about to be increased by the
addition of another locomotive, which is being constructed
by them. — ^Yours, etc.,
June 14th, 1892. SiLVANUS P. Thompson.
DUNDEE ELECTRIC LIGHTING.
The following tenders have been accepted :
Engines — WUlans and Robinson, Limited £3,500 0 0
Dynamos — Siemens Bros, and Co., Limited 2,632 0 0
Accumulators — The Electrical Power Storage Ck>mpany,
Limited 966 18 6
'FeederS'Callender Bitumen, etc., Com^ny,
Mains Limited 2,606 0 0
iMams-i Djatribution— India Rubber, Outta Peroba, and
. Telegraph Works Company, Limited 4,446 0 0
METERS FOR RECORDING THE CONSUMPTION
OF ELECTRICAL ENERGY.*
BT CHARLES HENRY WORDINGHAM, A.K.C., STUD.INST.CE.
(C<yniinued from page 662.)
The beautiful simplicity of the Ferranti- Wright meters,
which have practically nothing to get out of order, has
made them a most valuable acquisition, and they are
almost exclusively used by the London Electric Supply
Corporation for installations up to 40 amperes. They have
proved to be reliable, and give practically no trouble as
regards repairs ; they are, moreover, light, compact, and
easy to instal.
In the latest form of these meters it has been found
possible, by great care in manufacture, to so diminish the
friction as to render the shunt winding unnecessary. The
field magnets consist of two vertical limbs with horizontal
curved horns embracing the armature ; the horns are made
movable, so that their distance from the armature can be
varied, and the instruments adjusted to have the same
constant. They are then rendered direct-reading by pro-
portioning the gearing. The meters are " double-sealing,"
and the (uate protecting the terminals covers also a small
screw that admits of the armature and spindle being raised
from the jewel during transit, without interfering with the
local authority's seal A minor point of difference from
the older type is the substitution of aluminium for mica
fans. The following is a test :
Test of 10- ampere j?ERRANn- Wright Meter. — Unshunted.
Meter started with 0*4 ampere.
Curront in
Revolutions
Current in
Revolutions
amperes.
per B.T.U.
amperes.
per
B.T.U.
100
240
30
240
9-0
238
2-0
238
80
242
1-0
224
7-0
247
0-8
209
6-0
240
238
0-6
193
50
0-4
198
40
243
The unshunted form of this meter is very suitable for
recording the quantity sent out through the high-tension
mains of a central station, and it has been applied to this
purpose.
ShaUenberger Meier, — ^Like the last, this is an alternate-
current motor. In consists of two coils with their axes set
at an angle of 45deg. to one another, both surrounding a
horizontal iron disc, free to revolve on a vertical axis ; the
plane of the disc is at right angles to the planes of the
coils. One of these coils carries the current to be measured,
the other is simply closed on itself. The current in the
former induces in the latter a current which is a quarter of
a period behind itself, and the efifeot of this is that the
induced current, reversing as it does with the inducing
current, attracts the poles successively set up by the latter,
so producing continuous rotation. The motion is retarded
by aluminium fans. The following is a test of a 100-ampere
meter :
Test of 100-ahfere Shallenbeboer Meter.
Meier started with 3*5 amperes.
Current in
Revolutions
Current in
Revolutions
amperes.
per B.T.U.
amperes.
50
per B.T.U.
5
13-0
12-8
13-3
10
55
131
15
13-1
CO
ft5
13*4
20
13-3
13-3
25
13-3
70
13-3
30
13-0
75
13-3
35
13-3
80
131
40
13-8
85
13-1
45
13-3
90
12-5
It will be observed that the
constant is remarkably good,
but the starting power is c
[istinctly poor.
A test of a
smaller size is appended :
Test
OF 10- AMPERE S
HALLENBEBOEB MbTER.
Meter started u
fith 0*4 ampere.
Current in
Revolutions
Current in
Revolutions
amperes.
per B.T.U.
amperes.
per B.T.U.
0-6
17-9
17-7
5-8
18-1
1-0
7-0
18*6
1-9
18-6
180
18-0
8-2
17-9
2-9
90
17-5
3-9
10-0
17-6
4-9
17-9
* From the Tratuactions of the Institution of Civil Elngineers.
jiso
THE ELJEdTRIOAL EiNGINEBR, JUNE 17, 189^.
Although the above reauItB are givea lu the form of a
constant, the meters are direct reading, the adjustment to
identical constants being effected by alterinf; the angle
between the planes of the closed and inducing coils. The
Utest form is arranged to be "double-sealing." This meter
is very largely used in America by the Weatinghouse Com-
Jmny, and in London by the Metropolitan Electric Supply
Company. The London Electric Supply Corporation has
kleo a few in use, with saiisfactory results.
Slattery Meter. — This depends on the same principle as
the Shallenberger, but difiers from it in having a light
Copper cylinder in place of the iron disc, and in the way in
which the motion of the revolving cylinder is retarded.
Each vane consists of two quadrants of a circle, ABC,
ADC {see Fig. 5), the lower being pivoted about the centre,
A; it has attached to it an arm, E, weighed at F. When the
Speed increases the weight flies out and raises the quadrant
A C D, which slides behind ABC, thus reducing the surface
Exposed to the air lesistance. This is a different way of
Accomplishing the result obtained in the Ferranti- Wright
meter by aiittinij the fans.
Clasvs 2.
Hopkin^on Meter. — One of the earliest practical forms in
this class is that invented by Dr. J. Hopkinson, M.I.C.E.,
and, probably, if tbe present demand had existed at the
time at which it was brought out, it would have received
considerable development. This meter is shown diagram-
matically in Fig. 6. A high-resistance motor, A, is placed
HS a shunt across the lamp beads, and is bo arranged that
when excited it causes a pair of governor balls, B B, to
rotate ; the centrifugal force of these tends to raise an iron
Fro. 5.
Fig. 7
core, C, which is attracted downwards by tbe main current
passing through the solenoid, D. The core carries a contact,
£, which makes and breaks the motor circuit, and is so
adjusted that when no current flows through the solenoid
the circuit is broken. Directly a lamp is turned on, the
core is attracted downwards and the motor revolves, in-
creasing its speed until tbe governor balls cause its circuit
to be broken. Now the centrifugal force is proportional
to the square of the speed, and the attraction of the
solenoid for the core is, within certain limits, proportional
to the square of the current, hence these two forces will
exactly balance, and the motor will revolve with a speed
proportional to the current ; for if it rises above the |>roper
speed, its circuit is broken and the speed falls, and if it
falls below its right value, its circuit is made and its speed
iocreases. The number of revolutions are recorded by a
trains of counting wheels driven by a worm from the motor
spindle.
Frager Meter. — This is, jjerhaps, the most successful of
this class of meter. It is an improvement on an earlier
form known as tbe Caudray, and cousists esaentialiy of tbe
combination of an ammeter or wattmeter, a clock and an
integrating device connected to a system of counting
wheels. The meter is adapted to either alternating or con-
tinuous currents — the wattmeter being always used in the
former case. Its latest form may be thus described : The
movable coil of the wattmeter is of German silver wire
wound on a wooden bobbin, a noticeable point being that,
contrary to the practice of most makers, the whole of the
■hunt circuit is wound inductively and is movable, instead
of only a comparatively small portion being so wound and
the rest of the circuit formed of a noa-inductive extra
resistance. Tbe coil is suspended by a wire of phosphor
bronze, and carries a long lever, formed of aluminium in
the larger sizes and of brass in the smaller, balanced with a
brass counterpoise so as to hang honKontally. The end of
this lever is furnished on its iioder eide with a wedge-
shaped piece of steel and hangs over a horizontal
cam or snail, shown in Fig. 7, which is kept in slow
rotation by means of a ratchet wheel worked by a pawl
from a balance wheel, maintained in oscillation by a shunt
current. The snail is carried by a cradle, hinged at A B
(Fig. 7), and pressed upwards by a spring. Rigidly
attached to the spindle carrying the snail-cradle, and run-
ning along the straight edge of tbe snail and projecting
beyond it, is a piece of steel, C D, bevelled on its edge,
which is circular, having the suspension wire for centre.
As the spindle rotates, this bevelled edge comes in contact
with the steel wedge on the lever, and causes the latter to
rise and to jam against a brass sector placed over it. If no
current passes through the main coil of the wattmeter, the
lever stands at zero, and, as rotation proceeds, it simply
drops off the piece C D. If, however, the lever is deflected
when the engagement takes place, the lever drojM on to
the snail, depresses it, and causes a pawl, E, which it carries
\o engage with a ratchet wheel, which ratchet wheel drives
a counting train. Rotation goes on, and, as long as the
lever remains on the snail, it is locked, and the counting
wheels continue to register. As soon as the lever reaches
the round edge of tbe snail it drops off, the snail rises, and
the pawl ceases to drive the counting train. Now, aD
inspection of the snail will show that its shape is such
that the greater the deflection of the lever at tbe
instant of its engagement, the longer it remains on the
snail, and that it must drop off once every revolution.
Tbe action of the instrument is, therefore this : at equal
intervals of time, this interval being the time taken by
one complete revolution of the snail (200, 300, or 400
seconds, according to the size of the meter) the lever is
locked in the position which it happens to occupy at tbe
instant, remains on the snail for a time proportional to its
deflection, and then quits it, having caused a certain
amount to be registered on the dials. Now, this amount is
that which would have been used in the time occupied by
one revolution of the snail, if the current had retained the
value it had when the lever engaged. If the current
changes, no account is taken of the alteration until the next
time the lever engages, when the current is again assumed
to remain constant during one revolution. What the
instrument does, then, is to take a reading of the watt-
meter so many times an hour, to multiply each reading by
the time of one revolution, and to add ill these successive
products together on tbe dials.
The following are details of the several parts : The
balance wheel is furnished with a flat chronometer spring,
and consists of a nearly complete circle, formed of two pieces
of soft iron, A A (Fig. 9), united by a brass piece, B. A short
solenoid, C, excited by a shunt current, is so placed that
when the wheel ia at rest tbe soft iron cores are unsym-
metrically placed, At the top of tbe spindle carrying
this wheel is tbe contact- making device shown in Fig. 10.
Two little steel plates, one alwve the other, shaped as
shown, are mounted loose on tbe spindle ; the top one has
a V-shaped slot, A, in which works a pin, B, attached to
the spindle, C, from which it derives an oscillating motion)
the lower plate has a much wider V-shaped groove, shown
dotted, and in this works a pin projecting downwards from
the upper plate. Each plate has a depression, shown at D,
and a knife-edge, E, fixed to a spring, F, one end of which
can make contact with a contact screw, 0, bears against
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17, 1892.
591
the plates. When the depressions in the two plates are
opposite the knife-edge it drops in, and contact is made at
6, completing the circuit through the solenoid. If the
amplitude of vibration is small, the depressions in the two
plates correspond ; but if it becomes large, the lower plate
is carried round by the upper one, and left so that it
prevents the knife-edge from falling. When the amplitude
diminishes, contact is again made and a fresh impulse given.
The counting gear is connected to the snail-spindle by
means of a pair of bevel wheels, and by adjusting the
number of teeth in them, the meters are made to indicate
the Board of Trade units on the dials, however much the
constants of the wattmeter may vary.
This meter is certainly ingenious, but evidently highly
complicated. When carefully adjusted and protected from
vibration, it is capable of giving accurate results with a
steady current ; but under the conditions of actual practice
it labours under disadvantages, among which may be men-
tioned : (1) The necessity for careful levelling and adjust-
ing in situ, thus making it uncertain whether the test made
before it is sent out will apply when it is installed in the
consumer's house. (2) So many working parts are liable
to get out of order. (3) In cases where the amount of
light used is constantly varying at short intervals of time,
as in a theatre, indications far from the truth may be given.
Small variations in current, due to unsteady running, will
cause the lever to oscillate, and it may therefore become
locked at the wrong point.
Richard Frhres Meter, — Like the Frager, this in an inter-
mittent watt-hour meter ; but it has this important ad van-
tage^its readings are separated by intervals of only 15
seconds. It comprises a clock, wound electrically four
times a minute, a wattmeter, and a train of counting
wheels. The following cycle of operations is gone through
every 15 seconds. At a given instant a shunt circuit is
made through an electromagnet, the armature of which is
FlO. 10.
attracted and winds the clock, the circuit being imme-
diately broken again. After 10 seconds another shunt
circuit is closed, causing a current to flow through the
movable fine wire coil of the wattmeter and through an
electromagnet actuating a friction clutch. This clutch,
under normal conditions, mechanically connects the movable
coil with the counting train, but when pulled back it allows
the coil to move without affecting the train. When the
contact is made the clutch moves first, its moment of
inertia being much less than that of the wattmeter ; the
coil then deflects, a dash-pot steadying it quickly ; the
current flows for five seconds and is then interrupted, the
clutch flies back by means of a spring, and the wattmeter
returns to zero, carrying with it the first wheel of the train
through an angle corresponding to its deflection. The
clock-winding contact is again made, and the same series of
operations gone through as before.
This meter is in use in France, but has only recently
been introduced into England ; it is at present only used
for continuous currents, but will doubtless soon be applied
to alternating currents also. The author has had no experi-
ence of the meter, but the number of contacts and the
complication of its parts will probably be found serious
drawbacks ."^
Glass 3.
The majority of the meters in this class are founded on
Prof. Ayrton's ergmeter, which consisted of two clocks
regulated to keep exactly the same time. One of these had
a magnet in the place of a bob at the end of the pendulum,
and beneath it was placed a coil carrying the current to be
^ This instrument must not be confounded with the Richard
Frhres recording; ammeter, which is a very satisfactory piece of
apparatus for a different purpose, and hardly comes witnin the
scope of this paper.
measured ; the magnet being attracted by the coil when
the current flowed through it, the pendulum was accele-
rated, and the clock gained. The difference in time of
the two clocks was thus a measure of the quantity of elec-
tricity that had passed. There have been numerous
improvements on the original idea, the chief bein<f
embodied in the Aron and Oulton-Edmundson meters.
Aron Metei', — In this the two clocks are enclosed in one
case, and their wheel-trains are connected to a differential
gear, consisting of two bevel wheels, one driven by each
clock. Between these, and gearing into both, is a bevel
wheel free to revolve at one end of a spindle, the other
end of which carries a counterpoise ; to the middle point
of this spindle, and at right angles to it, is rigidly fixed a
second spindle connected to a counting train. If the large
bevel wheels both revolve at the same speed, the inter-
mediate wheel simply revolves on its axis ; but if one goes
faster than the other, the intermediate wheel, in addition
to revolving, rolls on the large wheels by an amount
depending on their difference in speed, and in so doing
twists the counting spindle.
This meter is made in two forms — viz., (1) that just
described in which the pendulum carries a magnet : this is
adapted to measure continuous currents only, and is a
current integrator ; (2) that in which the magnet is replaced
by a fine wire coil oscillating inside a solenoid : this is
adapted to either continuous or alternate currents, and is a
watt-hour integrator. The former is in very extensive use,
and all employing it speak highly of its performance. It is
open to the objection already referred to in connection with
the Frager meter, that it has to be adjusted in sitil, for it is
a fact well known to clockmakers that a clock once shifted
always requires regulating, no matter how carefully it may
have been moved. The permanent magnet is liable to change,
and it is found necessary to redetermine the constant of a
meter that has been in a house where a short circuit has
occurred, the magnet being weakened by the excessive cur-
rent. The clocks have to be wound up at least once a month,
and if one of them by any mishap should stop, the whole
record is destroyed. It is the practice in some central
stations to synchronise the meters every three months ; it
is then found that about half are slow and half fast, but
the error is not serious. An evidence of accuracy is afforded
by a meter at the station agreeing with the sum of the
readings of the consumer's meters within, it is stated, a
small percentage."^
The second form is seldom used except for alternating
currents, and with these it is extremely difBcult to get an
accurate test in the lower part of the scale, on account of
the great length of time required in order to get a reading
and the necessity for having the pressure and current
observed during the whole run, since it cannot be relied on
to remain steady, as in the case of continuous current where
cells can be used. The following is a test of the higher
part of the scale of this type :
Test of 200*amper£ Alternate-Current Aron Meter.
Current Pressure Board of Trade
in amperes. in volts. units per division.
200-1 100 : 1071
190-2 100 1081
1800 100 1075
171-0 100 1101
169-7 100 1-063
150-0 100 1068
140-3 100 1-065
130-0 100 1-066
120-0 100 1-070
110-3 100 1-055
1000 100 1-057
90-3 100 1-056
80-0 100 •^ 1-102
70-0 100 1083
60O 100 1-068
The meters are now made direct-reading, and are pro-
vided with an attachment for keeping the clocks in syn-
chronism when no current is on, the difBcultv in ensuring
this being the chief objection to the meter. It is extremely
* Since this paper was read, the author has been favoured by
Mr. J. H. Tonge, Stud.Inst.C.E., with the followinfi^ test of a 100-
ampere oontinuous-current Aron meter. The instrument read
i per cent, low with 100 amperes, with 50 amperes, and with 20
ainjperes, and 10 per cent, low with one ampere. In 48 hours the
difference in time between the two pendulums was one complete
period.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17. 1892.
simple, coDButing merely of a light, very slack thread join-
ing the two pendulums and having a small weight hung at
ita middle point. Il effects its object perfectly, but it
would appear probable that the constant at low readings
would be altered. The author has not yet tried whether
this is the case or not.
(To be amiimud.)
SOHE POINTS CONNECTED WITH THE ELECTBO-
HOTIVE FORCE OF SECONDARY BATTERIES.*
BY J. H. GLADSTOME, PU.D., AND W. HIBBERT, F.I.C.
Last month we communicated a paper to the Institute of
Electrical Engineers " On the Cause of the Changes of
Electromotive Furce in Secondary Batteries," which gave
rise to a certain amount of discussion. Since then we have
received a paper by M. Darrieus entitled, "Esssi de throne
chimique sur les accumulateurs Electriques au plomb,"
which was read before the Soci^t^ Internationale dea Elec-
triciens on May 4. In it he agrees with Prof. Armstrong
and Mr. Robertson in attributing the large initial KM.F.
to peraulphuric acid; and he opposes what he terms the most
generally admitted theory of the production of sulphate
during discharge, so far as the positive plate is concerned.
In our recent (laper we had assumed the truth of the
view put forth by Messrs. Gladstone and Tribe in 1882,
that in discharge " sulphate of lead is the ultimate product
on both plates," and on discharging again " this lead
sulphate is oxidated on the one plat« and reduced on the
other." This conclusion was not received at first without
powerful opposition ; but it has won its way to general
acceptance among workers on the subject. Among these
may be specially mentioned Prof. Frankland, Mr. Swinburne,
M'. Reyiiier, Messrs. Kohlrauech and Heine, Prof. Ayrton
and his colleagues, and Mr. Q. H. Robertson.
We can only attribute the finding by M. Darrieus of a
large amount of oxide of lead mixed with sulphate on the
poaitive plate to the fact of the difficulties of analyeis, as
it is huj to imE^ne that oxide of lead could remain as
such when surrounded by sulphuric acid.
The reaction which takes place in discharging was ex-
pressed in our recent paper by the general equation
PbO, + HjSO,...HgS0^-(-Pb = PbSO, + H,O...H,O + PbS0,
and the reaction that takes place on charging was expressed
by the same equation reversed. It is to be understood
that these equations represent the initial and the ultimate
products, and take no note of any intermediate reaction.
There have been numerous theories in regard to such inter-
mediate changes, but on these we must be held at present
formation and reduction of PbSO. there must be great
changes in the strength of the sulphuric acid within the
pores of each plate. How these changes must be affected,
not only the electrolytic reation, but by the influence of
gravitation and of diffusion, by electrical transference, by
local action, etc., is traced out in our paper. At the same
time, continuing the experiments which were communicated
to this society in 1890, we have not merely satisfied our-
selves mora fully that a change of strength of acid
against the working surfaces of the plates results in a
change of E.M.F,, but we have determined the amount
quantitatively for all strengths of acid, from a mere trace
to 99 per cent.
We show that the changes of E.M.F. in charge and dis-
charge coincide fairly well with the changes of strength of
acid deduced iV p'lori. For this purpose we employed the
determinations lately published by Prof. Ayrton and his
colleagues, believing them to be the best. Our conclusion
ii "wat the changes of E.M.F. in a secondary battery
depend on the strength of the scid that is against the
working surfaces of the plates."
The only serious opponents of our views, an fur us wu
know, are Messrs. Armstrong and Robertson. They have
attributed the changes of E.M.F. to the persulpbiiric acid
and hydrogen dioxide which are produced during the
change, llie experimental grounds of this cunchuion are
* Paper read before the Physical Sodmy.
not yet fully published, but we are able to refer to their
remarks in the discussion of our paper, as printed in the
Electriaan of last Saturday. They commence by substi-
tuting for our general equation a complicated and nnaym-
metrical one, which at best can only be one form of it, and
cannot represent those of our experiments that were nude
with the strongest sulphuric acid. Their nibsaqaent
remarks are addressed mainly to the supposed eontunina-
tion of our sulphuric acid with the soluble peroxides,
and to the probability of HjSO^ itaelf taking part in
the reaction. Now, as to the first objection :
Supposing that our plates in the first instance were not
washed perfectly clean, there can be no reason why the
trace of peroxide should always vary in amount with the
strength of the fresh sulphuric acid in which the plates are
dipped. As tothe second objection, we have not, assoppoMd,
speculated on hydrates of sulphuric acid in solution, and
have expressly stated that we " content ourselves at preeent
with pointing out that the liquid in the eecondary o«ll ia a
mixture, or a chemical compound, of two different litjnids,
sulphuric add (H^O,) and water, in varying proportionB.''
The most tangible criticism is directed not afputwt our
main experiments and argument, which are untouched, but
against one of our confirmatory experiments. MoMfS.
Armstrong and Robertson say, " Two series of experimenta
were described by the authors, in which the E.M.F. ders-
loped, on the one band, between two lead plates, and, on
the other, between two peroxide plates in acids of different
strengths was measured. They appeared to regard theee
results as very important, as they went so far as to draw
conclusions from a curve obtained by integrating the two
sets of observations " They might have added Uiat this
curve coincides both in shape and magnitude with that pre-
viously determined, when a Pb and PbOiplate were placed
t(^ther in different strengths of acid. They attribute the
results obtained with the two peroxide plates to the lead
supports because " local action would set in and be at a
maximum in the stronger acid, and therefore the lead plat«
of this couple would be more protected, and the support
opposite would be more active against the peroxide or this
pUte." The explanation is ingenious, and we might wel-
come it, since it presupposes the truth of our own con-
clusion, that with a stronger sulphuric acid there ia greater
electrolytic action. It is, indeed, not impossible that the
lead support may in some cases have a small influence on
the result, but it ia inconceivable that such large and
uniform differences and such close coincidences as those
shown in our paper could be due to the accidental operations
of local action. In this connection they claim support
fromanexperimentofourswith a plate driedat 100 percent,
but a reference to Table 6 will show that in that experi-
ment of ours we obtained, not the highest, but really the
lowest readings.
In order to show that the increase of E.M.F. does not
depend upon the presence or absence of peraulphuric acid,
we have within the last few days instituted the following
two additional experiments ; 1. A Pb plate and a PbOj
plate, perfectly free from dissolved oxides, were placed in
pure sulphuric acid of 13 per cent, strength, a porous dia-
phragm being between the two. The KM.F. was 1-940. Into
the acid surrounding the PbO, plate was placed 1 per cent,
of persulphate of potassium; the E.M.F. remained at 1-945.
The lead plate was then brought into the same compartment
so that both were exposed to the inffuoTice of peraulphuric
acid. The E.M.F. was scarcely changed—vii., 1'934.
2. A secondary battery was made with phosphoric acid
instead of sulphuric acid. Observations wsre made with
different strsngths of this phosphoric acid, varying in
specific gravity from 106 to I'S. The E.M.F. increased
with the strength of the acid ; and in the full r&nge there
was a difference of 0176 volt, The theoretical variation
calculated by Lord Kelvin's thermo- chemical law from the
known beat of dilution would be about 0-170 volt. Of
course, there waa no persulphuric acid, and we cannot
assume the presence of any higher acid oxide of phos-
phorus corresponding to it, as such a compound is not
known.
We have investigated the effect of charging and repose
on the KM.F. of a small accumulator with phosphoric acid
as the electrolyte, and found the results quite analogous to
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17. 1892.
593
those obtained with sulphuric acid, as described in our
paper read at this society in 1890, when we first announced
our view that " the abnormal amount of E.M.F. is due to
the inequality of acid strength, and its gradual disappear-
ance to equalisation of strength produced by diffusion."
ON THE MEASUREMENT OF THE MAGNETIC
PROPERTIES OF IRON.""
BY THOMAS GRAY, B.SC, F.R.S.E.
This paper gives the method of experiment and results
obtained in some investigations on the time-rate of rise of
current in a circuit having large electromagnetic inertia.
The experiments were made on a circuit containing the
coils of a large electromagnet having laminated cores and
pole-pieces. The mean length of the iron circuit was about
250 cm., and its cross-section 320 sq. cm. The magnetising
coil had 3,840 turns, when all joined in series, and a
resistance of 104 ohms. The coils were so arranged that
they could be joined in a variety of ways so as to vary the
resistance, inductive coefficient, etc., and also to allow the
magnet to be used either as an open or a closed-circuit
transformer. The E.M.F. used in the experiments was
obtained from a storage battery, and the method of experi-
ment was to trace the curve, giving the relation of current
to time, on a chronograph sheet.
One set of experiments shows the effect of varying the
impressed KM.R on the time required for the current to
attain any given percentage of its maximum strength. The
results show that for any particular percentage there is
always a particular E.M.F. which takes maximum time.
Thus for the circuit under consideration, and with successive
repetitions of the current in the same direction, it takes longer
time for the current produced by an impressed KM.F.of four
volts to reach 95 per cent, of its maximum than it takes for the
current produced by either three or five volts to reach 95 per
cent, of their maximum. The results show also that within
considerable limits, the time required for the current to
become uniform is on the whole nearly inversely propor-
tional to the impressed E.M.F., and that for moderate
values of the KM.F. the time may be very great. When
the KM.F. was two volts, and the current sent in such a
direction as to reverse the magnetism left in the magnet by
a previous current of the same strength, the time required
for the current to establish itself was over three minutes.
The difference of time required for repetition and for
reversal of previous magnetisation was also very marked
when the iron circuit was closed. The results show that
great errors may arise by the use of ballistic methods of
experiment, especially when weak currents are used, and
that for testing resistances of circuits containing electro-
magnets a saving of time may be obtained by using a
battery of considerable KM.F.
Another set of experiments gives the effect of successive
reversals of the impressed E.M.F. at sufficient intervals
apart to allow the magnetisation to be established in each
direction before reversal began. In this set also the effect
of cutting out the battery and leaving the magnet circuit
closed is illustrated, showing that several minutes may be
required for the magnet to lose its magnetism by dissipa-
tion of energy in the magnetising coil. The effect on these
cycles of leaving an air space in the iron circuit is also
illustrated. It is shown that a comparatively small air space
nearly eliminates the residual magnetism and diminishes
considerably the rate of variation of the coefficient of in-
duction and the dissipation of energy in the magnet.
Several cycles are shown for the magnet used as a trans-
former with different loads on the secondary. The
results give evidence that there is less energy dissipated
in the iron the greater the load on the secondary of the
transformer.
Some experiments are also quoted which go to show that
the dissipation of energy due to magnetic retentiveness
(magnetic hysteresis) is simply proportional to the total
induction produced when the measurements are made by
kinetic methods. Reference is made to the recent experi-
ments of Alexander Siemens and others which seem to
confirm this view.
* Paper read before the Royal Society.
ELECTRIC LIGHTING IN DUBLIN.
The following are the total tenders received on the 10th
ult., for the wiring of the civic buildings in Dublin. The
work was divided into four sections, and contractors were
asked to tender for each section separately, and for the lot :
J. G. Sutter and Co £1.220
EdmundsoD Limited (accepted) 1,298
Fowler, Lancaster, and Co 1,500
T. Scott Anderson 1,654
Laing, Wharton, and Down 1,644
Rashleigh Phipps and Dawson 1,649
Croggon and Co ... 1.660
John Pearce 1,838
J. K. FahieandSon 2,000
Electrical Engineering Company of Ireland 2,458
Berry, Harrison, and Co 2,504
0
15
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
10
10
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
5
0
EXPERIMENTS WITH ALTERNATE CURRENTS OF
HIGH POTENTIAL AND HIGH FREQUENCY.''
BY NIKOLA TKSLA.
(CimiiniLed frwn, page 569.)
When the highest vacuum obtainable with the pump had been
reached, the potash bulb was usually wrapped with cotton which
was sprinklea with ether so as to keep the potash at a very
low temperature, then the reservoir R3 was lowered, and
upon reservoir R] being emptied the receiver, r, was quickly
sealed up. When a new bulb was put on, the mercury was
always raised above stop-cock C], which was closed, so as to
always keep the mercury and both the reservoirs in fine
condition, and the mercury was never withdrawn from Ri
except when the pump had reached the highest degree of ex-
haustion. It is necessary to observe this rule if it is desired to
use the apparatus to advantage. By means of this arrangement I
was able to proceed very quickly, and when the apparatus was in
perfect order it was possible to reach the phosphorescent stage in
a small bulb in less than 15 minutes, which is certainly very quick
work for a small laboratory arrangement requiring in all about
1001b. of mercury. With ordinary small bulbs the ratio of the
capacity of the pump, receiver, and oonnoctions, and that of
reservoir, R, was about 1 : 20, and the degrees of exhaustion reached
were necessarily very high, though I am unable to make a precise
and reliable statement how far the exhaustion was carried.
What impresses the investigator roost in the course of these
experiences is the behaviour of gases when subjected to great
rapidly-alternating electrostatic stresses. But he must remain in
doubt as to whether the effects observed are due wholly to the
molecules, or atoms, of the gas which chemical analysis discloses
to us, or whether there enters into play another medium of a
faseous nature, comprising atoms, or molecules, immersed in a
uid pervading the space. Such a medium surely must exist,
and I am convinced that, for instance, even if air were absent, the
surface and neighbourhood of a body in space would be heated
by rapidly alternating the potential of the body ; but no such
heating of the surface or neighbourhood could occur if all free
atoms were removed and only a homogeneous, incompressible, and
elastic fluid —such as ether is supposed to be— would remain, for
then there would be no impacts, no collisions. In such a case,
far as the body itself is concerned, only frictional losses in the
in.«ide could occur.
It is a striking fact that the discharge through a gas is
established with ever-increasing freedom as the frequency of the
impulses is augmented. It behaves in this respect quite con-
trarily to a metallic conductor. In the latter the impedance
enters prominently into play as the frequency is increased, but the
gas acts much like a series of condensers would ; the facility with
which the discharge passes through seem to depend on the rate of
change of potential. If it act so, then in a vacuum tube even of
great lengtn, and no matter how strong the current, self-induction
could not assert itself to any appreciable degree. We have, then,
as far as we can now see, in the gas a conductor which is capable
of transmitting electric impulses of any frequency which we may
be able to produce. Could the frequency be brought high enough,
then a queer system of electric distribution which would be likely
to interest gas companies, might be realised ; metal pipes filled
with gas — the metal being the insulator, the gas the conductor —
supplying phosphorescent bulbs, or, perhaps, devices as yet unin-
vented, it is certainly possible to take a hollow tore of oopper,
rarefy the gaB in the same, and by passing impulses of sufficiently
high frequency through a circuit around it, bring the gas inside to
a high degree of incandescence ; but as to the nature of the forces
there womd be considerable uncertainty, for it would be doubtful
whether with such impulses the copper tore would act as a static
screen. Such paradoxes and apparent inipoesibilities we encounter
at every step in this line of work, and therein lies, to a great
extent, the charm of the study.
I have here a short and wide tube which is exhausted to a high
degree and covered with a substantial coating of bronze, tne
* Lecture delivered before the Institution of Electrical
Engineers at the Royal Institution, on Wednesday erening,
February 3, 1892. From the JawrruU of the Institutioii of
Electrical Engineers,
S94
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17, 1892.
CMting allowing barelf the light bi Bhine through. A metallio
olup, with a book for snapBiidlDg the tabe, is fastened around the
middle portioii of the lAU«r, the clasp being in contact with
Iha broDce coatinE. I now want to lieht the gas inside by
■napendlDK the tube on a wire connected to the coil. Anyone
who woola try the experiment for the first time, not having any
preriouB eiperience, would probably Uke care to be quite alone
when making the trial, for fear that he might become the joke of
hii aniBtaote. Still, the bulb lights in spite of the metal coating,
and the light can l>e distinctly perceived through the latter. A
long tube covered with aluminium bronze tiKhta when held in one
hand— the other touching the terminal of the coil— quite power-
fully. It might be objeSed that the coatings are not sufficiently
conducting ; still, even if they were highly resistant, they ought
to screen the gas. They certainly screen it perfectly in a con-
dition of rest, hat not by far perfectly when the charge is surging
In the coatiBK- But the loss of energy which occurs within the
tube, notwithstanding the screen, is occasioned principally by the
presence of the gas. Were we to take a laree hollow metallic
sphere and fill it with a perfect iacompreesible fluid dielectric,
there would be no loss inside of the sphere, and consequently
the inaide might be considered as perfectly screened. Chough the
potential be very rapidly alternating. Even were the sphere
filled with oil, the loss would be imcomparably smaller than when
the flaid is replaced by a gas, for in the latter case the force pro-
duces displacements : that means impact and collisions in the
No matter what the pressure of the gas may be, ..
an important factor in the heating of a conductor when the
electric density is great and the frequency very high. That in
the heating of conductors b^ lightning discharges air is an
slament of great importance, is almost a« certain as an experi-
mental fact, I may illnstrate the action of the air by the
: I take a short tube which is exhausted to
_ -„---, —id has a platinum wire running through the
middle from one end to the other. I pass a steady or low-
frequency current through the wire, and it is heated uniformly
in all partA. The heatincr here is due to conduction, or frictional
lOBsee, and the gas aroana the wire has, as tar as we can see, no
function to perform. But now let me pass sudden discharges, or
a high-frequency current, through the wire. Again the wire is
bea^, this time principally on the ends and least in the middle
portion ; and if the frequency of the impulses, or the rate of
ohanKe, is high enough, the wire might as well be cut in the
midifle as not, for practically alt the heating is due to the rarefied
gas. Hero the gas might only act as a conductor of no impedance
diTerting the current from the wire as the impedance of the
latt«r le enormously increased, and merely heating the ends of
tbe wire by reason of their resistance to the passage of the
dbofaarge. But it is not at all necessary that the gas in the tui>e
should be conducting ; it might l>e at an extremely low pressure.
bUU the ends of the wires would bo heated— as, however, is ascer-
tained by experience— only the two ends would in such care not
be electrically connected through the gaseous medium. Now
vhat wiih these frequencies and [xitentius occurs in an exhausted
tube oocura in the lifbtning dischargee at ordinary pressure. We
only need rvmember one of the facts arrived at in tbe course of
these inTestigations — namely, that to impulses of very high fro-
qneooy tbe gaa at ordinary pressure behaves in much the same
manner aa tteugh it were at moderately low pressure. I think that ia
Ujriitiiing discharges frequently wires or conducting objects Eire
volatilised merely because air is present, and that, were the con-
diict(»' immeiaed in an insulating uauid, it would be safe, for then
the energy would have to spend iteelf oomewhere else- From the
behaviour of gaaes to sadden impulses of hiffh potential, I am led
to oonclnde that there con be no surer way of diverting a lightning
diacharge than by affording it a passage through a volume of gas,
if such a thing can be done in • practical mannw.
^ere are two more features upon which I think it necessary to
dwell in connectioD with tbeea experiments — the " radiant state "
and the " non- striking vacuum." Anyone who has studied Crooke's
work must have received the impression that the " radiant state "
is a property of the gas inseparably connected with an extremely
high degree of exhaustion. But it should be remembered that the
phenomena observed in an exhausted vessel are limited to the
character and capacity of the apparatus which Is made use of. I
think that in a bulb a molecule, or atom, does not precisely move
in a straight line because it meeta no obstacle, but because the
velocity imparted to it is sufficient to propel it in a sensibly
straight line. The mean free path is one tiling, but the velocity—
the energy associated with the moving body- is another, and
under ordinary circumstances I believe that It ia a mere qoeatlon
of potential, or speed. A disruptive discharge ooUi when tba
potential is pushed very far, excites phosphoreeoence sAd projeota
shadows, at comparatively low degrees of exhaustion. In a light-
ning discharge matter moves in straight lines at ordlnan' praaaora
when the free moan path is exceedingly small, and Irequently
images of wires or other metallio objects have been produoed 1^
the particles thrown off in straight lines. I have premrad «
bulb to illustrate bv an experiment tbe correctness of theae
assertions. In a globe, L, Fig, 31, I have mounted upon a lamp
filament, /, a piece of lime, /. The lamp filament is ooaneeted
with a wire which leads into the bulb, and tlie genwol oon-
struction of the latter is as indicated in Fig, 19, t>efore deaoribed.
Fio, i
iduction Lamp.
The bnlb being suspended from a wire connected to the
terminal of the coil, and the latter being set to work, the
time piece, I, and the projecting parts of the filament, /, are
bombardod. The degree of exhaustion is just such that with
the potential the coil is capable of giving phosphoreecenoe of the
glass is produced, but disappears as soon as the vacuum is
impaired. The lime containing moisture, and moisture being
given off as soon as heating occurs, the phosphoreeoence lasts
only for a few moments. When the lime has been sufficiently
heated, enough moisture has been given off to impair materially
the vacuum of the bulb. As the bombardment goes on, one point
of the lime piece is more heated than other points, and the result
is that finally practically all the discharge passes through that
Kint which isintensety heated, and a white stream of lime particles,
g. 31, Chen breaks forth from that point. This stream is
composed of " radianc " matter, yet the degree of exhaustion
is low. But the particles move in straight liries, because the
velocity imparted to them ia great, and this is due to three
causes — to the great electric density, the high temperature of the
small point, and Che fact that the particles of the lime are eaailv
torn and thrown off— far rooro easily than those of carbon. Witli
frequencies such as we are able to obtain, the particles ore bodily
thrown off and projected to a considerable distance ; but with
sufficiently high trecguencies no such thing would occur. In such
case only a stress would spread, or a vibration would be propa-
gated through the bulb. It would be out of question to reach any
such frequency on the assumption that the atoms move with the
speed of light ; hut I believe that such a thing is impassible. For
this an enormous potential would tie required. With potentials
which we are able to obtain, even with a disruptive discharge ooU,
tbe speed must be quite insignificant.
As to the " non-strildng vacuum," the point to be noted ia
tliat it con occur only with low-frequency impulaea, and it I*
necessitated by the impossibility of carrying off enough energy
with such impulses in high vacuum, since uia few atoms which
are around the terminal, upon coming in contact with the same
ore repelled and kept at a distance (or a comparatively long period
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17, 1892.
595
of time, and not enough work can be performed as to render the
effect perceptible to the eye. If the difference of potential
between the terminals is raiseid, the dielectric breaks down. But
with very high frequency impulses there is no necessity for such
breaking down, since any amount of work can be performed by
continually agitating the atoms in the exhausted vessel, provided
the frequency is high enough. It is easy to reach— even with
frequencies obtained from an alternator as here used — ^a stage at
which the discharge does not pass between two electrodes in a
narrow tube, each of these being connected to one of the terminals
of the coil, but it is difficult to reach a point at which a luminous
discharge would not occur around each electrode.
^ A thought which naturally presents itself in connection with
high-frequency currents is, to make use of their powerful electro-
dvnamic inductive action to produce light effects in a sealed glass
^lobe. The leading-in wire is one of the defects of the present
mcandescent lamp, and if no other improvement were made, that
imperfection at least should be done away with. Following this
thought, I have carried on experiments in various directions, of
which some were indicated in my former paper. I may here
mention one or two more lines of experiment which have been
followed up. Many bulbs were constructed, as shown in Fig. 32
and Fig. 33. In Fig. 32 a wide tube, T, was sealed to a smaller
W-shaped tube, U, of phosphorescent glass. In the tube T was
placed a coil, C, of aluminium wire, the ends of which were pro-
vided with small spheres, t and 'i, of aluminium, and reached into
the U-tube. The tube T was slipf)ed into a socket containing a
primary coil through which usually the discharges of Leyden jars
were directed, and the rarefied gas in the small U-tube was excited
to strong luminosity by the high-tension currents induced in the
coil C. When Leyden jar discharges were used to induce cur-
rents in the coil C, it was found necessary to pack the tube T
tightly with insulating powder, as a discharge would occur
frequently between the turns of the coil, especially when the
primary was thick and the air gap, through which the jars dis-
charged, lar^^e, and no little trouble was experienced in this way.
In Fig. 33 IS illustrated another form of the bulb constructed.
In this case a tube, T, is sealed to a globe, L. The tube contains
a coil, C, the ends of which pass through two small glass tubes,
t and ti, which are sealed to the tube T. Two refractory buttons,
m and mi, are mounted on lamp filaments which are fastened to
the ends of the wires passing through the glass tubes / and ti.
Generally in bulbs made on this plan the globe L communicated
with the tube T. For this purpose the ends of the small tubes,
t and ^1, were just a trifle heated in the burner, merely to hold
the wires, but not to interfere with the communication. The
tube T, with the small tubes, wires through the same, and the
refractory buttons, m and mi, was first prepared, and then sealed
to globe L, whereupon the coil C was slipped in and the connec-
tions made to its ends. The tube was then packed with insulating
powder, jamming the latter as tight as possible up to very nearly
the end, then it was closed and only a small hole left through
which the remainder of the powder was introduced, and finaUy
the end of the tube was closed. Usually in bulbs constructed as
shown in Fig. 33, an aluminium tube, a, was fastened to the upper
end, 8, of each of the tubes t and /], in order to protect that end
against the heat. The buttons, m and mi, could be brought to any
degree of incandescence bv passing the discharges of Leyden jars
around the coil C. In such bulbs with two buttons a very curious
effect is produced by the formation of the shadows of each of the
two buttons.
(To he coiUinued. )
PHYSICAL SOCIETY.— June 10, 1892.
Mr. WALTEa Baily, M.A., vice-president, in the chair.
A paper **On Some Points oonnected with the B.U.F. of
Secondary Batteries," by Dr. Gladstone and Mr. W. Hibhert,
was read by the former. The communication is given in full else
where in this issue.
Prof. Ayrton thought that there was no question that the
strength of acid had much to do with the changes of £. M F. The
point at issue, he considered, was whether the changes were direct
effects of the strength of acid, or due to secondary actions brought
about by alterations in strength.
Hr. B. W. Smith said Mr. Robertson and himself were repeating
the author's experiments with two PbOj plates without any grid.
They had obtained results analogous to those mentioned in the
paper, but the true explanation of the effects was still to seek.
Bfr. W. Hibhert contended that the soluble oxides referred to
by Prof. Armstrong and Mr. Robertson were not present in their
experiments. They had also proved that changes in acid strength
altered the E.M.F., whilst presence of persulphuric acid did not.
Dr. Gladstone, in reply, said they also were making experi-
ments without grids, but had not made sufficient progress to
discuss them at present. Mr. Hibbert and himself believed the
effects of local action inconsiderable, whilst Messrs. Armstrong and
Robertson thought them very important. He hoped that ere long
the points would be settled conclusively.
A paper on "Workshop Ballistic and other Shielded Gal-
vanometers,** by Prof. W. B. Ajrrton, F.B.S., and' Mr. T.
Mather, was read by Prof. Ayrton. The galvanometers described
were of the type having movable coils and fixed magnets, the
advantages of which are well known. In designing the ballistic
instruments their aim had been to obtain sensibility and port-
ability, combined with being screened from external influences,
for it was often desirable to measure the magnetic fluxes and fields
in dynamos by apparatus near the machines. One of the iniprove-
ments adoptea was the narrow coil, described in a paper " On the
Shape of Movable Coils, etc.," read before the society in 1890.
Such coils are particularly advantageous for ballistic instruments,
for not only can greater swings be obtained by the discharge of a
given quantity of electricity through such a coil than with ordi-
nary-shaped coils when the periodic times are the same, but even
when the same control is used, the same length of wire in the coil,
and suspended in the same field, the narrow coil is more sensitive
to discharges than coils of any other shape. Another improvement
was the use of phosphor bronze strip for the suspensions instead of
round wire. For a given tensile strength, both the control and the
sub- permanent set could be diminished by using strip. In Feb.,
1888, the authors made a d'Arson valof the ordinary typeasa ballistic
instrument, and found that although it was suitable for comfiaring
condensers, yet for induction measurements the damping was
excessive unless the resistance in the circuit was very large. This
greatly reduced the sensitiveness. In 1890 they tried one of Car-
pentier's milliampere-meters as a ballistic instrument, but found it
insensitive. A narrow-coil instrument made in the same year was
found to be sensitive for currents, but as the coil was wound on
copper to get damping, it was not suitable for ballistic work. In
January, 1892, a somewhat similar instrument was constructed for
ballistic purposes, and was found very sensitive and convenient.
Although the coil had only a resistance of 13 ohms, one micro-
coulomb gave a swing of 170 divisions on a scale 2,000 divisions
distant, the periodic time being 2*7 seconds. The instrument
could be used near electromagnets or dynamos, and was so sensi-
tive that for ordinary induction measurements very large resist-
ances can be put in series with it, thus reducing the damping to a
very small amount. On the other hand, toe coil could be
brought to rest immediately by a short-circuit key. It had
the further advantage that it was not necessary to redeter-
mine its constant every time it was used. The chief
disadvantage of such instruments was the variable damping,
on closed circuits, of different resistances. This could, however,
be overcome by arranging shunts and resistances so that the
external resistance between the galvanometer terminals was the
same for all sensibilities. A portable ballistic instrument intended
for workshop use was next described. This had a narrow coil
and a pointer moving over a dial whose whole circumference was
divided into 200 parts. The instrument had been designed to give
a complete revolution for a reversal of a flux of two million C.u.S.
lines, out the pointer could turn through two or more revolutions*
To test stray nelds a test coil with a total area of 10,000 souare
centimetres is used, and has a trigger arrangement for sudaenly
twisting it through two right angles. The instrument then reads
off directly the strength of field in C.G.S. lines. To vary the
sensitiveness in known proportions, resistances are employed.
Referring to the improvements made in movable-coil instruments
since January, 1890, when a paper on ** Galvanometers " was read
before the society by Dr. Sumpner and the present authors. Prof.
Ayrton said Mr. Crompton had greatly increased the sensitive-
ness of Carpentier's instruments by suspending the coils with
phosphor bronze strip. Mr. Paul had brought out a narrow-coil
mstrument which combined the advantages of portability, dead
beatness, quickness, and sensibility. Specimens of these instruments
were exhibited. The narrow coils are enclosed in silver tubes which
serve to damp the oscillations. Such a coil is suspended within a
brass tube, which also forms the mirror chamber, and slides down
between the poles of a circular magnet fixed to the base. To
clamp the coil, a plug mounted on a slotted spring passes through
a hole in the brass tube. A tube can be taken out and replaced
by another containing a coil of different resistance in a few
seconds. An instrument of this kind with a coil of 300 ohms gave
95 divisions per micro-ampere, and the damping on open circuit was
such that any swing was ^ of the previous one. On comparing
recent instruments with those mentioned in the paper on galvano-
meters above referred to, a distinct improvement is apparent, for
their sensitiveness is, for the same resistance and periodic time, as
great as that of Thomson instruments.
Prof. Perry remarked that the forces dealt with were extremely
small.
Mr. Swinbnme thought that ballistic galvanometers misrht be
regarded as instruments indicating the time-integral of E.M.F.
rather than quantity. Illustrating his meaning by reference to
dynamos, he said that if two machines arranged as dvnamo and
motor were joined by wires, then if the armature of the dynamo
were turned through any angle, that of the motor would move
through the same angle supposing friction eliminated. Speak-
ing of figures of merit, ne pointed out that the power consumed
was the important factor.
Prof. S. P. Thompson enquired what was the longest periods
yet obtained with narrow-coil instruments. The decay of
mstgnetism in large dynamos was so slow that very long periods
were required ; he himself had used a weighted coil for such
measurements. He also wished to know why the figures of merit
were expressed in terms of scale divisions on a scale at 2,000
divisions distance, instead of in angular measure or in tangents.
Bfr. B. W. Smith asked what was the length of strip required
to prevent permanent set when the deflections exceeded a
revolution.
Bfr. A. P. Trotter thought that in testing magnetic fluxes by
the workshop ballistic instrument, the test coil might be left in
circuit instead of putting in another coil. He wished to know
what error was introducml by the change of damping caused by
the resistance of the circuit not being quite constant.
In his reply. Prof. Ayrton said Mr. Boys had pointed out that
the scientific way to lengthen period was not by weighting the
coils or needles, but to weaken the control. Periods of five seconds
6d«
tSE ELECtftlOAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17, 1892.
bad been obUioed. At preeent it wu not eu; Co obtun longer
periods, owing to difficultisB Jd obtaining Bafficientir thin strip
uid to the magnetiam of nutterials.
BLACKPOOL.
At the meeting of the Blackpool Town Council on the
7th inisL, the electric lighting question was an important
item in the discussion. In the minutee of theMnrketaatid
Gas Committee it was decided that the report submitted
by the uaaiBtant gas manager, Mr. Wm. Chew, upon the
present electric lighting of the promenade and piers be
received and printed, and a cop; furniabed to each member
of the Council.
The Electric Lighting Committee reported as follows :
Msy 3rd,— Resolved, that the borough surveyor be deaired to
analyse the whole of Che Hpecifications and tenders for electric
lighting received by the committee, sod tabaUte Eame for the
committee's information and use, TbaC the Council be recom-
mended to discoatinuo the present system of electric lighting on
the Promenade and piers, and to direct that the tiiture electric
lighting on the Promenade and piers be incorporated in the general
scheme to be recommended by the cororaittee for lighting the
boroagh, or some parts thereof, by electricity under the Blackpool
Electric Lighting Order, 1890.
In the discussion on these minutes
B asked when the wonderful report of
Tio oe submitted to the Council, The delay
:0 the public and the Uouncil.
r took eioeption to the minut« recommending
tbe discontinuance of thepreaent system of electric I ishtinK on the
Promenade and piers. These large arc lights, he thouEnt, were
the best UgbtB in England, and he did not see why they should be
teplaoed by farthing rushlights. He proposed that the minute
be referred back.
Aldarmmn ParUiwaii said that he would second the amend-
ment on the ground that by adopting the minute they were giiing
the Electric Lighting Committee a free hand lo do away with
these lights wherever they thought proper. It was unfair to ask
the Conncil to do away with one of the greatest advertisements
the town hod ever had. Some months u^ the present engines
required repairing, and they were th>>n told that in a short time
a new system would be introduced. The new system had not yet
been euliraitted, and had not the engines been repaired, there
would not now have been any electric Tigbt.
Aldsrman CardwoU said that it was not intended to pull down
these arc lights until the new system was ready.
ConnolUor ftmttb understood that the report of the committee
was already in writing, almost ready to be preBeot^d.
OonnoUlor Sergeiuon said that these arc lights were a stumbling-
block to both the committee and the electrical engineers. They
had hod testa made of the arc lights and their cost, and although
he should be glad to see the lights extended right along the
Promenade, it was impossible, inasmuch as it would cost £T,O0O
per year, workiag on the present system. They proposed to
recommend 2,000-c.p. tights instead of the e.OOO-c p, lights as at
present used, and to fix them 30ft. high and 45ft. apart.
OonnoUlor Wblttaker did not endorse the statement of the
ffiTIDUB speaker respecting the coat oF an extension of the present
„ its. He was in favour of the amendment.
CoAHoUlor Pearson said that it would be absolutely impossible
to present the report of the commitC«e until one or two matters
■nch as that before the Council hod been cleared away by the
Conncil. If the Council directed that the present arc lights
should remain, then provision would have to be made in the
tenders. He would point out, however, that not one engineer
had spoken in favour of the lights. Even Mr, Siemens, the
inventor of the lamps they were at present using, had now
condemned them, and said that they could light the
Promenade at a much less coat. It was intended that
the lishts instead of being suspended from a height of 60ft.
shonld be hung at a height of between 25ft, and 3Ht., and that
instead of being 100 yiuds apart, they should only i>e 40 or 45
yards apart. Then again, instead of the lamps being of 6,000 c, p.
each, they Bhonld be of only 2,000 c.p. The Promenade could be
efficiently illuminated for the whole of the year for between £18
and £22 per lamp per annum, whilst the present lights ooat fliO
each for the season and double the amount for the whole of the
£)ar. The report would be issued immediately the Improvement
ill had been got out of hand. There were several legal dilBculties
that required attention, and it was only the inability of the town
officials to devote the requisiu time to the work that caused delay
la the issue of the report.
Seven voted for tue amendment and tour against, the amend-
ment being therefore carried.
Connolllor Hawpsen proposed a further amendment providing
that the future electric lighting of the Promenade Ehould be incor-
porated in the general st^eme to be recommended by the com-
mittee.
porting.
The amendment w
as amended.
a carried, and tbe a
CHESTER.
REPORT BY DR. HOPKINSON OK THE ELECTRIC LIGHT
SCHEME.
The minutes of the Watch Committee brought before the
Chester Town Council at its last meeting, contained the
following report by Dr. Hopkinsnn :
I visited Chester on Friday last, and have
a carefully e
sidered the circumstances of the electric lighting of Cheater.
Primarily there ore two questions to be considered. First, the
site for the generating station ; and, seoond, the system of sup^dy
to be adopted. The decision of these poiata depends on wen
other, for if the distance to which the electrical power is to be
transmitted is considerable, an alCematinK high-tansioB system la
essential i whereas, on the other hand, if the alstanoe is mederatSi
a direct low-tension system is preferable. With a low-tennim
system, by means of three wires, there isno difficulty in supplying
economically a considerable quantity of electricity to thre»-
quarters of a mile ; and this distanoe, for a smaller quantity, could
be readily extended to a mile without serious lees. In Chester
it is not probable that the demand for electricity will be
great in the near future ; bat, as in the case of all
provisional orders, you are required to maintain the Bnp[dy
during the whole of the 24 hours, with tbe ht^h-
tension alternating ■ystem the machinery must be kept in motnon
during the whole time that the curront is being supplied. This
involves that the men must be in constant atteadanoe upon the
machinery, and steam must be kept np. at constant expenditure
of fuel, the result being that your wages oooount will be doubled
by the mere fact that the supply must bo continuons. If, how-
ever, you make use of the low-tenaicn system, accumulators can
be applied, and these will supply current during the hours that
the demand is amall. It is true that accumulators are costly In
the Urst instance, and that thoy are expensive to maintain, but in
the caie of Chester these drawbacks are much more than oompen-
sated by the saving of wages effected. It ia a moot point among
engineers whether it is worth while to use accumalatots in laiK«
stations. The Kensington Company, carried out by Mr. Crompton,
and the Westminster Company, carried out by Prof. Kennedy,
make use of accumulators substantially for the reason wbi^ I
have stated. But whether it is right in these large atatione to
use them or not, 1 am quite clear that they would be of eoormoos
advant^e in the small station required for Chester. I am,
therefore, of decided opinion that, although if no site were
favourable within your district, it would be ea^ to work at high
tension with transformers, if there is a site favourable, a low-
tension system, with a small hatt«ry of accamuUtora, is much to
be preferred. When in Chester I inspected a considerable number
of possible sites for the generating station. I deal with those first
which appear to mo to have least to recommend them.
TAe Dee JUitli.— lb has been proposed that water power shonld
be employed , and that part of these mills should be purchased.
I understand that the tide actually rises 4ft, above the weir at
these mills. In dismissing this site I cannot put it more
emphatically than by saying that if I had to use this Bit« for
generating a supply of electricity, I would use steam, and would
not use the water power at all. The saving of coal which would
be effected would be eiceedingly small in compariaon with
the trouble involved by the irr^ular hours at which the water
power can be used.
ThK Old n'ori/ioMe—ThiB has the advantage of being at pre-
sent the property ol the Corporation. The site is near uie river,
but for the present the coal would have to be carted. The draw-
back to this site is that it is somewhat remote from the aeatre of
the area to be lighted— this means additional cost in condnotors
and additional waste in transmitting power. Therefore, altbongh
there would be no difficulty in working from this site, I wooid
much prefer to have the site nearer to the centre of the town.
roHTerJ^tc/d,— This aite is also, T understand, the property of tbe
Corporation, and it is very near the site last referred to. 'tb»
same considerations apply to it as to the lasL The cost of
supplying electricity from these two sit^s would be practically the
Seimgt Worh.— The attraction, at Brat Bight, in this site Is tiiat
some economy in wages may be effected by utilisiag the same
stafT of men, and the same boilers to work the eleotrio light
machinery and the sewage pumps. But I am informed that tMce
is at this site no land available, and that what spare land there li
will probably be very soon required for the purposes of the sewage
workfi. If this site were adopted, the distance from the centra of
supply is so considerable that the alternating high-tension system
woula be essential. There ore two other sites which I did not
actually visit, because it was clear that they bad neither of them
anything in their favour. They are Saltney. at a distance of 2J
mites [rom Chester, and Sandy Lane, at a distance of 1^ miles.
We now come (o the sites available within the town.
The Ho/i-pote Poddoct.— This L
n excellent ai
nthe L
pied ground, and I am informed that there would
difficulty in obtaining any quantity of oondensatloD water from
the caoal, provided it was returned to the canal- The nas of
coodensora is of very considerable advantage in electric lighting
stations ; it, of coarse, economises the quantity of ooal used, sau
it avoids the production of steam, wnlch may be, or may be
all^^ to be, a nuisance to neifrhbourr " *--- "- — '— '
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, ^TuNE IIT, 18&2.
59?
that if this site were adopted for the station there may be oppo-
sition from the cathedral authorities, who may be apprehensive
that the character of the neighbourhood of the cathearal would
be changed disadvantageously. I have no doubt in my own mind
that it would be very easy to put up a building on this site in such
a way that there would be no reasonable ground for complaint.
The site is most favourably placMsd in regard to the district to be
lighted, and th<» advantage of water K>r condensation is con-
■Kierable. Whether these advantages are sufficient to outweigh
the opposition which may be raised if the site be adopted is a
matter which those having local knowledge could judge far better
than I.
HamiUon-pl<ice.—Th\B site is near the Town HalL There is
abundance of space for the amount of machinery which would be
required by the town for some time to come. The surrounding
property is of a comparatively low class, and consequently there
would be little fear of complaint from neighbours that they were
disturbed by vibration. There is here no water available for
purposes of condensation, but in all other respects the site is as
gooa as the Hop-pole Paddock. If this were the only site avail •
able I should not have the least hesitation in recommending its
adoption.
Since leaving Chester I have been informed that two other sites
are available, the one in Lower Bridge -street, at the Albion
Rooms, the other a chapel near the centre of the town. From a
sketch plan which has been forwarded to me I gather that the
Albion Rooms is a site about 50ft. wide and 150ft. deep. This is,
of course, a very ample area for your purpose. The site is perhaps
not quite so advantageous as Hamilton -place, but it would be
thoroughly satisfactory.
The conclusion to which I arrive, then, is this— that your central
station should be either in the Hop-pole Paddock, or in Hamilton-
place, or at the Albion Rooms, that there is little to choose
between these three, and that any one of them is adapted for your
purpose. As already stated, as the distance is not too great, I
should strongly advise the use of the low-tension direct-current
three-wire system, with a small battery of accumulators. I under-
stand that a sum of £15,000 has been sanctioned for the proposed
works, exclusive of the land upon which they are to be erected. My
estimate for the plant required for a thoroughly satisfactory gene-
ratine works is £16,224. This, it will be observed, is exclusive of the
cost of takingup thestreets and makiuethemgood again, but includes
the actual laying of the pipes in the trenches. The amount is
somewhat in excess of the amount sanctioned, but it can be readily
reduced with a corresponding reduction of the output if the figure
of £15,000 is to be r^arded as rigid. The lengtn of mains pro-
vided for is nearly three miles — the length of streets within the
compulsory area is about 1^ miles, hence this length of mains will
provide for laying mains down one side of these streets and some-
thing considerab^ for extension beyond. This plant will enable
you to supply at one and the same time 3,000 16-c.p. lamps, and
would certainly enable you to permit 4,000 lamps to be connected
to your circuits. The actual annual cost of working and main-
taining the plant I estimate at £1 , 196. 10s. The re ven ue to be derived
from the sale of electricity will, of course, depend on three things —
upon the price you charge for the supply, upon the quantity taken
by your consumers, and upon the hours during which they take it.
In Manchester I have recommended the following method of
charge, and it has been approved by the Board of Trade. For
each unit of power in the maximum power demanded a charge not
exceeding £3 per quarter, and in adaition for each unit supplied a
charge not exceeding twopence. The number of units per hour
required by a consumer will be ascertained from time to time with
a suitable instrument, all the lamps or other consuming devices
being in use, and the units actually supplied will be ascertained
by a meter. The former charge ox £3 is to compensate the Cor-
poration for the expense of providing machinery and conductors
to be ready to supply current to the lamps if required, the latter
charge is for the coal and wages consumed in supplying the
current. For the information of those who do not know what
a unit is, it may be said that a unit will supply about 80
8-candle lamps oflisuitable efficiency for an hour, hence lor every such
8-Gandle lamp connected the consumer must pay a fixed charge of
2s. a quarter, and in addition thereto must pay ^th of Id. for
every hour he uses it. This method of charge has the great advan-
tage that it encourages that class of consumers who demand the
supply for a considerable length of time. Such consumers cost
the undertaker much less to supply. Taking the rates which it
is proposed to adopt in Manchester, 4,000 16-c. p. lamps connected
and 3,000 actually supplied at one time by the plant, and
assuming that the lamps on the average were in use for 750 hours
per annum, the revenue to be received would amount to £4,250.
The average cost to consumers of their supply of electricity would
be about 6d. per unit. Taking light tor light, this would be
equivalent to your gas at about 5s. per thousand. I understand
that gas in Chester costs about two-thirds of this, and it
would be a matter of very grave consideration for the Corporation
whether they should endeavour to supply electricity at such a
price that it would cost no more than gas. I understand that
there are in Chester 740 gas lamps in the streets, and 55 Bray
lights of 80 candles each, and that the charge for each of the 7^
lamps is £2. 8s. per annum, this charge including the cost of lamp-
posts and of lighting the lamps. There is no doubt that if the
inhabitants of Uhester did not themselves take an adequate quan-
tity of current to give a paving return upon the works that some-
thing could be done with aavantage in lighting the street lamps.
The present lamps bum four cubic feet of gas per hour, and would
be fairly replaced by an eight-candle electric lamp. The supply
of electricity for thu eight-candle lamp upon the rate of charge
proposed would imply a fixed oharge of 8s. per annum, and
in addition thereto about £1 for the supply of electricity,
altogether about £1. 8s. per annum. Bearing in mind that the
gas company at present supply the lampposts and lighting, it
would appear that the cost of electric light in the street wouia be
about the same as the present cost of the equivalent gas.
On the whole, although I do not r^ard Chester as a specially
favourable town for the electric light, I see no reason to doubt that
an electric lighting central station in Chester would speedily pay
its current expenses, interest upon the capital employed, and
something over for extinguishing by depreciation the cost of the
plant.
CANTERBDBT.
A t-pecial meeting of the Canterbury Town Council was
held on Wednesday last week at the Guildhall to receive
the report of the Electric Light Committee as follows :
"The opinion of Mr. Moulton, Q.C., has been taken as to the
materiality of the alterations made on behalf of the Brush Com-
pany in the suggested agreement and deed of transfer. Acting on
the advice of the learned counsel, the committee recommended
that some of these be agreed to, among others that the under-
taking be named ' The Canterbury and Dover Electricity Supply
Company,' but the accounts of the two towns are to be kept
separate. There is some little hitch as to the terms of the agree-
ment regarding payment of the costs incurred by the Council, and
the committee reject an alteration limiting the power of the
Council in applying for an order in the event of the default of the
company."
The Uayor moved the adoption of the report, and said he would
remind them that they were for the first time all agreed on this
question. They unanimously decided to submit the drafts to Mr.
Moulton, Q.C. The committee suggested that they should not
have the agreement redrawn until their action that day had been
submitted to the Brush Company.
Mr. Milla was of opinion that the matter had been before them
quite long enough. He contended that the Council never ought
to have applied for the order themselves. They should have let
the Brush Company get it and take the responsibility. Now they
had it, the Question was what they were goin£[ to do with it. He
had much pleasure in seconding the proposition that the agree-
ment be sent to the Brush Company. There was one thing upon
which they were all agreed — that the interests of the city should
be protected. To satisfy them that such was the case he would
ask the town clerk to read the last letter be had received from Mr.
Moulton with regard to the promotion-money.
The Town Clerk then read the following : " With regard to
Clause 1 of the agreement, I intended that my opinion should
refer to what is spoken of in the papers before me as '* promotion-
money," as well as to the other matters mentioned in the clause.
In my opinion, the terms between the Brush Company and the
Canterbury Comfiany should be matters that the Corporation
should not touch in any way, or consider themselves responsible
for, but their requirements should relate to the sufficiency of the
plant to be put down. The powers that they have reserved
approving of the first directors of the company and the articles
01 £issociation, appear to me sufficient to ensure that no improper
transactions take place in the formation of the comfiany. I am
of opinion that the whole of Clause 29 [enabling the Council to
apply to the Board of Trade to revoke the order on insolvency or
default of the company] should be retained."
enquired M'hy Canterbury should be tacked on to
Dover. They would, he contended, eet mixed up.
The Mayor replied that Mr. Moulton suggested that the
accounts be kept sepcu:titely. They must not expect the company
to give up everything.
Mr. Wells pointeaout that Clause 6 stated that the expenses of
the transfer would fall on the Corporation and not on the company.
The Town Clerk explained that that was the application for the
approval of the Board of Trade to the transfer.
Captain Lambert supported the proposition and contended that
Mr. Moulton had safeguarded their interests.
Mr, Warren agreed that it was quite time the matter was
brought to an issue. When Mr. Garcke acted for the company,
they agreed to pay £350 down for obtaining the order. Now it
had. been altered, and Mr. Moulton thought that Clause 2, which
stated that " the company instead of paying all the expenses of
the Council in obtaining the order on the execution of the agree-
ment, are to pay £35 then, and the balance when the tranner is
executed," was reasonable. He (the speaker) could not agree with
that. If he had a transaction with anyone and they made a
promise, he should keep them to it. He contended that the
company were shirking their promise, and he did not see why
they should. He considered that whatever was decided by Mr.
Garcke the company ought to pay.
The Mayor : Mr. Moulton does not agree with you.
Mr, Harris contended that they ought to keep the company up
to the contract.
Mr. Maaon said the matter seemed to be in a nutshell. They
had spent £350 and would g^t nothing for it, whereas they might
accept £35, and the remainder later on, and g^t the light into
Canterbury.
Mr. Warren contended that they eught to have the £350 down.
The Mayor reminded members that shareholders having ao
interest in the gas company could not vote.
The motion was then put, six voting for, and one againit
698
600
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17, 1892.
^ESTERl^
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BUfORB*S GERMAN AND AUSTRO-HUNGARIAN METAL
COMPANY, LIMITED.
The tint annual genenU meeting of this Company was held on
Thuraday, June 9, at the Hty Terminue Hotel.
Mr. Jmmee &eok presided, and, in moving the adoption of the
re|)ort, stated that it had been impoesible to bold the meeting
siKiner, as they had been unable to get the accounts completed
earlieTi the vouchers having been in the hands of an official auditor
in If ermany in connection with the establishment of theOermancom-
|Hiny . This business waSfho^^x-er, now com|)leted. When forming the
tiorman com|)any they |iaid to that com(Muiy about £12,500, and a
large pro|H>rtioii of this sum was still in their hands at the time
t he acci^uitts w ere made u ik They had only been at work at Schladern
four or live weeks since they recsived i^rmission to begin, and part
of their working had been fort heir own pur|Kiees in making mandrels
itwm the original ores. The (Kwition of the factory was a very
gtHtd one. and t here was railway communication within 800 yards.
They hmt alsi> land uiKin which they could extend the works as the
business increaseit. He afterwards explained the various details
and difficulties connected with the formation of the German
com|>any. They began business with *2A orders, but they would
hax-c i^enty to keep them going. They were not projiosing to
increase the capital of the romjiany, for they were going to convert
the £«Vl,M) of 0 i^er cent, debenture stock into 7 y*tT cent, prefer-
ence shares, to be entiUed to further dividends pro rata after the
or^linary sharss hml received 10 wr cent« per annum.
Mr. Jektt Maefkrlaa secondeil the motion, which was adopted.
The OkiOnMUi, in answer to questions, stated that the German
|^^x)>srty was valueil at what it cost, and that the C^erman
t\wn|wny ha«l been established under the powers contained in
this \XHn)\any's memorandum of association.
Ke«olutkms were afterwanis |tassed authorising the increase of
the ^>a)Mt*l to £^.2:V,t)iX> by the creation of t2.\000 new shiunes of £2
each, the new shanNt ami the Ci^aXH) sharxxji now unissued of the
cwiginal <«|^ul to l^ calM fveference shares, the existing shares
being in future ternM^i orvlinary sHanes.
NEW COHPANIES REGISTERED.
UMiteA -Registered by
Wilkins ami i\v. U:?, Gneeham Houj^. E.O.. with a cs^iiud of
£>i\lXX^ m t.^ ^j^Sanw. Ob.^eots : to aix^uire the businew of eleoxrical
wineaiKi ^'^her el^^triv^Al s|K^aniiusmanufaoiurers« biiherto carrie^i
*■« b\ T. Aftii ,' \Ville\. under ihe *tvle o! the Lomioa Eleotric
^ « «
Wire Ootn(>any. a; TUyhou^ > %<vl. liolden-lane. MC. aiKl gene-
rally to oarry on ami eJitemi the Mkki businew in all its brancb<«^
The firM sttbetLTiNecs are :
1
1
1
T. WUVey. BosMiharv^i, Molyneux 4>ark. Tunbriiice WeUs
•1. Wuley, The LizKieos. iS*v>eni\ark. Wulsi^ien
F. «1< Las&b Ooss«\vi. Pa:rSoSx-road Stoke Newincton
W. H Wuie^^ Abc^v Workik I'^uvhow^vard. GoMen-Uoe^
A. U IV«. ;^ Hudode ;^oc»e6ridge« WiUefden
.V A Hxipv<o. Aaw'^v Works^ ikcdea-*aae« K.C.
H. Ok(^ A».*^>r \Vo;^«. On.^Me».U&e H. 0.
Titers «ftkall aoc Ss mw sKaa thnw vkor SKve than nve IXrecsor^
TW ms a:« T. as^i ^ W::Ve\. ^^ualt^cisitoci, ^V jevarcis.
KeaB«Mra:x'«k £X ^s. Mk.>h for «ac& R»rvi aiteodaxkoe^
BUSINESS MOTES.
Ti» 0o'3ii'is&\ an:xv;m'>KK :^e
IM^iMOkl OB J'v.^ is: X i^< ^aartecvi .ii^riee^t a: :he ra:e v^: 7 i^nt
«>IM. (^sc a»»axb
Lmba.-* t»ia:;:*k'- R:*c::sas loar.iasj' miK^' C^.RK1
sa«£n^ ?saw :i irepv i~*N AC*::aK tNfO r.v :ji *a=ae j^erjAS ,c
ImS 7^*;. .Y a wcrMGW .-^ il*^ TSe k>;aI rccec-.'iss ;o OA:e frvc:
ex 1, l5^!C lAc* a» mcPtittie oc ti.I.V as cvi:i'%fcreo «::is Iks:
PtOTISIOKAL PATENTS. tSSS.
. ,xf
>ir:K
>r:*
li-na.
.r^MhTJitf* K«-im^:kr.': •'Sk'^^^'C'^ \.v \'>A'rs.>fc\
inka«*a. \'oar..ii!e9«e KiiKT^f^'sid.'v.
>/r^
>fr*K.
1
10777. ImproTements in eleeferle bAMaiiaa. TW PtoHf
mny, Limited, 60, Chanoery-lftoe, Lopdon. dbH
Company, Limited, Mersch.)
10818. Improved eleotrieal 1n«il«t1«g MaAilL Qril
57, Barton -arcade, Manchester. (Charies W. M
United States.)
JuxE 8.
1082:). ImproTemenU la the
Inanlators for telegrmpb,
purposes Ernest Wentm-orth Bnllflr, 101^
Birmingham.
]<)S47. An appUanoe for mamaMmm >kb
swlteh. Richard Norman LacsMa Arthor Ji
and Anthony George, New
ttreet, Wet«tmineter, London.
lusTiti. Improvements la prlaiarj
Wey mersch. *2K, Southampton- buUdiaga,
London. Complete epecincation. )
10S.M. Improvements la secoadaiT ^Attartea. Hi^ I
K irk |iat rick -Picard and Henry Thame, llS;8l.ftf
avenue. Shepherd's Bush, London.
l4tS7i>. Improvemeats la elaetrieal maaaartec ^ttm
Heiirv Harrii« Lake. 4.'), Southamptoa-buildiip^Ch
lane. 'London. <E4iu:iid Weston* United Stile)
{ilrte s(iecitication. i
KtST.^. Improvemeats in electrical laAfteaSar ayvandBi
Ambrose x cEvoy. *J4. SonthampCon-bQiMaups €i
lane. Lomion.
lfiS7(> Improvements la the refleettom ma A AleMtaii
eleetrle ligat. lUiu^ Augustas Timmis, 2» One'
.-ireet . vVv-t lunji^ter.
JrvE 9.
liiM.'i'i. Impro^eflseats la piiasary aad aeeemdavy taM
elcetHe Uchtlag aad power. William Joes B
Eat't lake- road. Brixion, London.
liim,>. Aa Improved eloetrieal advertlalms Aavlea
Waiter Lka\ie4: and Penningtoe Rove Xenei, Ul
London.
Jr>E la
U<^S. Improvemeata la mdc
Wiuiher K ii^a. 1". Jetfrey'i
JrsE 11.
n«cti
:>.!. Hi^:; Holi:om. London.
Aa Improvcmeat la
enadactars led la calverta Jokn
ll«S>. iBipiniemnutaia
K:M»^r.^r i^i Btzben J.^n CoaSee, 11. Feni
H:-^t>c:ii. Lor^ioc
<*:.^^:::ii Lir:>:i:. Bcv E'ectric Work*, ArabU-e
L:.-i:-
PECIFK ATIOXS PCBLISHKD.
is^i'
IVCTx
;:4>4
• V«^0 flivC^CVaVC ^^^m
etn
i-Wl Sacaadarrta
"taa IjLkt 5is
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^^^ T>iaepaiat la
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coip.\n:
STOCK AXD
SHABS U
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:^ a .: -^T"!.:!! .^^
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5
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>*.
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5
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:♦
• ^»ni !.>.-.•.• *..■..■--»
. . »v7vvi f.L-* r." >».
■»"•
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 24, 1892.
601
=^
NOTES.
( f^m Panoras is to have a new technical institute.
^iiRth. — The electric light company have agreed to fix
ffline globes to the street arc lamps.
2B>^Uambber. — It is stated that vast virgin forests of
^ caoutchouc tree have been discovered in Upper
noco.
gjt^ume Nine. — Owing to this being our index number,
■Mai very interesting papers have had to be left over
A next week.
■nnff'8 College. — The prize winner in electrical engi-
ning at King's College at the distribution on Friday was
5. F. E. Proctor.
Public Lighting. — Tenders have been invited for the
^bting of the street lamps of Romford, Essex, and
■Igeley, Staffordshire.
^World's Fair. — The London Polytechnic has booked
■isr 800 passengers for the Chicago Exhibition at
■ guineas inclusive fare.
SUuioaster is to spend £40,000 on new roads, buildings,
e brigade stations, and so forth, where electrical appli-
ices will be naturally required.
gOzford. — The Oxford central electric light station was
cmally opened last Saturday by the Mayor of Oxford in
rtmence of a large enthusiastic meeting.
I>eptford Tramways. — The London County Council
aye sanctioned the use of mechanical power other than
yeem on the Deptford and Greenwich tramways.
Alternators in Parallel.— The alternating dynamos
lumtioned last week, which were run in parallel at Madrid,
rere Lowrie-Parker machines, made at Wolverhampton.
Jonmal. — We have received the Journal of the Insti-
Dtion for June, containing papers on the electric arc, by
L P. Trotter, and on the E.M.F. of secondary batteries,
y Dr. Gladstone and W. Hibbert.
Edison's Fee. — It is stated that the largest fee on
*ecord for an expert's opinion was given to Edison
yy the Niagara Company in the shape of a cheque for
kO.OOOdols., or £8,000. It does sound large.
Spanish Telegraphs. — ^A complete strike of telegraph
operators has taken place in Spain, 2,800 operators being
die. It seems probable, says Beuter, that the Government
rill be obliged to concede the terms demanded.
Burnley. — On Tuesday Mr. Arnold conducted a Local
Government Board enquiry at Burnley relating to an
ipplication by the Council to borrow £29,000 for a scheme
>f electric lighting which has already been provisionally
tdopted.
Manchester. — Tenders for the electric wiring of that
loble building, the Manchester Town Hall, are invited by
iie Gas Committee, specifications being obtainable on pay-
nent of two guineas. The tenders are to be sent in by
Fuly 5th.
Chnroh Lighting. — St. Nicholas Cole Abbey, Queen
iTictoria-street, has been fitted for some time for electric
ight. Current is now turned on, and the 11 lamps of
{00 c.p. give a steady and satisfactory light, which is greatly
.ppreciated.
Bradford. — With reference to the tests of electric cars
,t Bradford, of which we have given recent accounts, we
earn that so far as the electrical part of the installation is
oncerned, the trial has proved perfectly successful. Nego-
iations are now progressing as to the future working of
ihe line.
Dundee. — At the meeting of the Gkks Commissioners
last week, it was resolved to borrow, subject to the approval
of the Secretary of State for Scotland, the sum of £20,000,
to be applied towards the establishing of electric lighting
works at Dundee.
Taunton. — On Wednesday last week, at the meeting
of the Taunton Town Council, the Electric Lighting Com-
mittee recommended that the Council should enter into a
contract with the electric light company to purchase the
whole of the buildings, plant, and works of the company
for £9,300. The report was adopted.
Sooiete Internationales des Bleotrieiens. — Mem-
bers of this society, of which Mr. B. Aylmer, M.I.C.E., is
hon. secretary and treasurer in this country, are requested
to note that the society's office has been moved from 42,
Parliament-street to 47, Victoria-street, S.W., and that
the registered telegraph address is " Leclanch^, London."
Stafford. — It was reported at the last meeting of the
Stafford Town Council that the provisional order would
expire in August, and it was resolved to ask the Board of
Trade to extend the time. The committee had instructed
their engineer, Mr. Bell, to make a canvass, and the matter
is likely to be proceeded with if the canvass promises well.
Cardiff. — On Tuesday, at a meeting of the Lighting
Committee of Cardiff Corporation, it was stated by the
chairman that the sub-committee were not yet prepared to
report as to a site for the electric light generating station.
They were still waiting respecting the land, having had
no satisfactory reply from either of the parties approached.
Bishopsgate-street Station. — The jury in the
Bishopsgate fatal railway accident added, as a rider to their
verdict of accidental death, that, although the accident had
not been shown to have arisen from the defective lighting
of the station, they wished to call attention to the fact that
the station should be better lighted, more especially near
the signal-box, and with the electric light if possible.
laighthonses and Ughtships. — The Royal Com-
mission to enquire into the desirability and practicability
of telegraphic communication between lighthouses and
lightships and the shore will be constituted as follows :
Lord Mount-Edgcumbe (president), Sir E. Birkbeck, M.P.,
Admiral Sir G. Nares, Admiral Sir L. M'Clintock, Mr.
Mulholland, M.P., Mr. Munro Ferguson, M.P., Mr. J.
Cameron Lamb, C.M.G., Mr. R Graves, and Mr. J. A.
Kempe.
Spalding. — At the last meeting of the Spalding Im-
provement Commissioners, upon the recommendation of
the Gas Committee, it was decided to lay down an addi-
tional main, to secure the better lighting of the centre of
the town, the cost of the proposed new work being under
£300. Mr. Kingston advised the Board not to spend more
than was necessary on their old gas works, as he held the
opinion that gas lighting would in a few years be replaced
by electric light.
Islington. — At the meeting of the Islington Vestry
last Friday, the Special Electric Lighting Committee pre-
sented a recommendation that a provisional order authoiis-
ing the Vestry to supply electricity in the parish should be
applied for. The committee have arrived at this decision
after exhaustive research and the advice of an eminent
engineer, and they have come to the conclusion that it
is possible to give the supply at 5d. per unit, as against
6d. in St. Pancras and 8d. as mentioned by other
promoters.
Vietoria-emliankment. — We are pleased to see the
London County Council are intending to take in hand the
lighting of the embankment, once so resplendent with
600
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 17, 1892.
ELMORE'S GERMAN AND AUSTRO-HUNOARIAN METAL
COMPANY, UMITED.
The first annual general meeting of this Company was held on
Thursday, June 9, at the City Terminus Hotel.
Mr. James Book presided, and, in moving the adoption of the
report, stated that it had been impossible to hold the meeting
sooner, as they had been unable to get the accounts completed
earlier, the vouchers having been in the hands of an official auditor
in Grermany in connection with the establishment of theGerman com-
pany. This business was, however, now completed. When forming the
German company they paid to that company about £12,500, and a
larg^ proportion of this sum was still in their hands at the time
the accounts were made up. They had only been at work at Schladern
four or five weeks since tney received permission to begin, and part
of their working had been for their own purposes in making mandrels
from the original ores. The position of the factory was a very
good one, and there was railway communication within 800 yards.
They had also land upon which they could extend the works as the
business increased. He afterwards explained the various details
and difficulties connected with the formation of the German
company. They began business with 25 orders, but they would
have plenty to keep them going. They were not proposing to
increase the capital of the Comfiany, for they were going to convert
the £50,000 of 6 per cent, debenture stock into 7 per cent, prefer-
ence shares, to be entitled to further dividends pro rcUa after the
ordinary shares had received 10 per cent, per annum.
Hr. John Kaeflurlaa seconded the motion, which was adopted.
The Chftlmuui, in answer to questions, stated that the German
property was valued at what it cost, and that the German
Company had been established under the powers contained in
this company's memorandum of association.
Resolutions were afterwards passed authorising the increase of
the capital to £250,000 by the creation of 25,000 new shares of £2
each, the new shares and the 25,000 shares now unissued of the
original capital to be called preference shares, the existing shares
being in future termed ordinary shares.
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
liOBdeB Xlectrlo Wire Company, Limited. —Registered by
Wilkins and Co., 112, Gresham House, E.C., with a capital of
£50,000 in £5 shares. Objects : to acquire the business of electrical
wire and other electrical apparatus manufacturers, hitherto carried
on by T. and J. Willey, under the style of the London Electric
Wire Company, at Playhouseyiird, Golden-lane, E.C., and gene-
rally to carry on and extend the said business in all its branches.
The first subscribers are :
Shares.
T. Willey, Bonchurch, Molyneux-park, Tun bridge Wells
J. Willey, The Lindens, Craven-park, Willesden
F. J. Lamb. Cotswold, Fairholt-road, Stoke Newington
W. H. Willey, Anchor Works, Playhouse-yard, Golden-lane,
E.C
A. L. Don, 2, Hillside, Stonebridge, Willesden
J. A. Hodgson, Anchor Works, Golden-lane, E.C
H. Capel, Anchor Works, Golden-lane E.C
There shall not be less than three nor more than five Directors.
The first are T. and J. Willey. Qualification, 200 shares.
Remuneration, £5. 5s. each for each Board attendance.
BUSINESS NOTES.
Commerolnl C»Me Company. — This Company announces the
payment on July 1st of the quarterly dividena at the rate of 7 per
cent, per annum.
Wastom and Rraitllan Telegraph Company. - The receipts
for the j^t week, after deducting 17 per cent, payable to the
London rlatino-Brazilian Company, were £2,622.
City and South London Railway.— The receipts for the week
ending June 12 were £745, against £860 for the same period of
last year, or a decrease of £115. The total receipts to date from
January 1, 1892, show an increase of £1,156 as compared with last
year.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1892.
10716.
June 7. •
10715. ImproTomonts in oondnotora for the distrilmtion of
•loetrleal energy. Charles Edward Jackson, 55, Chancery-
lane, London. (Complete specification. )
ImproTomonts in and eonnooted with Junotione for
eloetrioai eondnotors. Carrington Riddell Gordon
Smythe, 5, Uoune Quadrant, Kelvinsido, Glasgow.
10736. An improTod proeeea and apparatne for malriwg eodinm.
pofMlmn. and liko motala hy aleetric notion, and
prodnoing Dnrrio ohlorida aa a dry powder. Henry Clay
Bull, 15, Water-street, Liverpool.
Improvwnanta in or relating to eleotrio telegraphie
■lgnala-reoel¥ing apparatus. Richard Steenberg, 3, St.
Nicholas-buildings, Newoastle-on-Tyne.
10762. ImproTomonta in inoandeooent oleotrie lampa. Ephraim
Eby Weaver and Gustavos Benson M anypenny, 328, High
Holboro, London. (Complete specification.)
10742.
10777. Improyements in eleotrio batteriea. The Princess Com-
pany, Limited, 60, Chancery-lane, London. (The Princess
Company, Limited, Mersch.)
10818. Improved elootrieal inralating oondnit. Carl Boll^,
57, Barton-arcade, Manchester. (Charles W. JefferBon»
United States.)
June 8.
10823. ImproremonU in the oonatmotion and attaehmeata of
inanlatoni for telegraph, tolephoao, and aoeh like
porposea Ernest Wentworth Buller, 104, Colmore-row,
Birmingham.
10847. An appliaaoe for aotnating an elootria traaatormer
■witeh. Richard Norman Lucas, Arthur James Mavne,
and Anthony George, New Palace-chambers, Bridge-
street, Westminster, London.
10850. Improvements in primary yoltaio battorioa. Henry
Weymersch, 28, Southampton-buildings, Chanoery-lane,
London. ((Complete specification.)
10855. Impruvements in aeoondary batteriea. Hagh Fitzaiis
Kirkpatrick-Picard and Henry Thame, 112, St. Stephen's-
avenue, Shepherd's Bush, London.
10870. Improvementa In eleotrioal measnring inatmmenti.
Henry Harris Lake, 45, Southampton-buildings, Chancery-
lane, London. (Edwaitl Weston, United States.) (Qom-
fileto specification.)
10873. Improyementa in electrical indicator apparatna Charles
Ambrose X'cEvoy, 24, Southampton- buildings, Chanoery-
lane, London.
10876. Improvements in the reflootion and diatrihntion of the
eleotrio light. Illius Augustus Timmis, 2, Great George-
street, VVei*tininster.
June 9.
109.32. Improyementa in primary and aeoondary hattarioa for
eleotrio lighting and power. William Jonee Birnie, 16,
Eastlake-road, Brixton, London.
10945. An improved eleotrioal advertising dovlae. Arthur
Walter Davies and Pennington Rowe Nunes, 151, Strand,
London.
June 10.
10948. Improvements in miorophonea. George Lee Anders and
Walther Kbttgen, 10, Jeffrey's-square, London.
June 11.
Improvemeatain eleotrio elooka. Arthur Boothe Webber,
20, High Holbom, London.
An improvement in insnlating snpporta Der olaotrlaal
oondnotora led in enlverta. John Thomas Harris, 28,
Southampton-buildings, Chancery-lane, London.
11038. Improvements in eleotrio signalling apparatne. Gustar
Binswanger and Herbert John Coatee, 11, Fur nival- street,
Holborn, London.
11041. Improvements In ''eleotrioal aaflsty devioea.** Vittorio
Giovanni Lironi, Bow Electric Works, Arnold-road, Bow,
London.
10999.
11032.
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1886.
13341*. Covering and inanlating eleetria wiraa. Newton.
( McCracken . ) (Amended. )
14033. Bleotrolyais. Abel. (Siemens and Halske.) (Second
edition.)
1891.
8696. Bfiorophonea. Huelser. (Vogt.)
8806 Dsmamo-electrio, etc., maehinaa. (jSravier.
10894. Eleotrometera. Boys.
12384. Inanlating eleotrio wiroa. Mackay.
12484 Telephonic ewitohing apparatna. Bennett.
16931. Eleotrio meters (irassot.
1892.
6112. Sooondary battorioa. Lake. (Sleicher and Mosher,)
7398. Telephone reoeivera. Hess.
COMPANIES* STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Name
Brush Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, Qutu Pereba k Telegraph Co.
House-to- House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Electric Construction
Westminster Electric ,
Liverpool Eleotrio Supply
li
10
5
5
h
10
5
8
Prlbt
WedttM
Si
2i
n
I
8
H
34
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 24, 1892.
601
NOTES.
St. Panoras is to have a new technical institute.
Bath. — The electric light company have agreed to fix
Pearline globes to the street arc lamps.
Indiarabber. — It is stated that vast virgin forests of
the caoutchouc tree have been discovered in Upper
Orinoco.
Volnme Nine. — Owing to this being our index number,
several very interesting papers have had to be left over
until next week.
Klnflr's College. — The prize winner in electrical engi-
neering at King's College at the distribution on Friday was
Mr. F. E. Proctor.
Pablio Ughting. — Tenders have been invited for the
lighting of the street lamps of Romford, Essex, and
Bugeley, Staffordshire.
World's Fair. — The London Polytechnic has booked
over 800 passengers for the Chicago Exhibition at
25 guineas inclusive fare.
Lancaster is to spend £40,000 on new roads, buildings,
fire brigade stations, and so forth, where electrical appli-
ances will be naturally required.
Oxford. — The Oxford central electric light station was
formally opened last Saturday by the Mayor of Oxford in
presence of a large enthusiastic meeting.
Deptford Tramways.— The London County Council
have sanctioned the use of mechanical power other than
•team on the Deptford and Greenwich tramways.
Alternators in Parallel. — The alternating dynamos
mentioned last week, which were run in parallel at Madrid,
were Lowrie-Parker machines, made at Wolverhampton.
Jonmal. — We have received the Journal of the Insti-
tution for June, containing papers on the electric arc, by
A. P. Trotter, and on the E.M.F. of secondary batteries,
by Dr. Gladstone and W. Hibbert.
Xdiflon's Fee. — It is stated that the largest fee on
record for an expert's opinion was given to Edison
by the Niagara Company in the shape of a cheque for
iO.OOOdols., or £8,000. It does sound large.
Spanish Telegraphs. — A complete strike of telegraph
operators has taken place in Spain, 2,800 operators being
idle. It seems probable, says Beuter, that the Government
will be obliged to concede the terms demanded.
Burnley. — On Tuesday Mr. Arnold conducted a Local
Government Board enquiry at Burnley relating to an
application by the Council to borrow £29,000 for a scheme
of electric lighting which has already been provisionally
adopted.
Uanohester. — Tenders for the electric wiring of that
noble building, the Manchester Town Hall, are invited by
the Gkks Committee, specifications being obtainable on pay-
ment of two guineas. The tenders are to be sent in by
July 5th.
Chnroh Lighting. — St. Nicholas Cole Abbey, Queen
Victoria-street, has been fitted for some time for electric
light. Current is now turned on, and the 11 lamps of
200 c.p. give a steady and satisfactory light, which is greatly
appreciated.
Bradford. — With reference to the tests of electric cars
at Bradford, of which we have given recent accounts, we
learn that so far as the electrical part of the installation is
eoncerned, the trial has proved perfectly successful. Nego-
tiations are now progressing as to the future working of
the line.
Dundee. — At the meeting of the Gkks Commissioners
last week, it was resolved to borrow, subject to the approval
of the Secretary of State for Scotland, the sum of £20,000,
to be applied towards the establishing of electric lighting
works at Dundee.
Taunton. — On Wednesday last week, at the meeting
of the Taunton Town Council, the Electric Lighting Com-
mittee recommended that the Council should enter into a
contract with the electric light company to purchase the
whole of the buildings, plant, and works of the company
for £9,300. The report was adopted.
Sooiete Internationales des Bleotrioiens. — Mem-
bers of this society, of which Mr. K Aylmer, M.LC.R, is
hon. secretary and treasurer in this country, are requested
to note that the society's ofBce has been moved from 42,
Parliament-street to 47, Victoria-street, S.W., and that
the registered telegraph address is " Leclanch^, London."
Stafford. — It was reported at the last meeting of the
Stafford Town Council that the provisional order would
expire in August, and it was resolved to ask the Board of
Trade to extend the time. The committee had instructed
their engineer, Mr. Bell, to make a canvass, and the matter
is likely to be proceeded with if the canvass promises well.
Cardiff. — On Tuesday, at a meeting of the Lighting
Committee of Cardiff Corporation, it was stated by the
chairman that the sub-committee were not yet prepared to
report as to a site for the electric light generating station.
They were still waiting respecting the land, having had
no satisfactory reply from either of the parties approached.
Bishopsgate-street Station. — The jury in the
Bishopsgate fatal railway accident added, as a rider to their
verdict of accidental death, that, although the accident had
not been shown to have arisen from the defective lighting
of the station, they wished to call attention to the fact that
the station should be better lighted, more especially near
the signal-box, and with the electric light if possible.
Lighthouses and Lightships. — The Royal Com-
mission to enquire into the desirability and practicability
of telegraphic communication between lighthouses and
lightships and the shore will be constituted as follows :
Lord Mount-Edgcumbe (president). Sir E. Birkbeck, M.P.,
Admiral Sir G. Nares, Admiral Sir L. M'Clintock, Mr.
Mulholland, M.P., Mr. Munro Ferguson, M.P., Mr. J.
Cameron Lamb, C.M.G., Mr. R Graves, and Mr. J. A.
Kempe.
Spalding. — At the last meeting of the Spalding Im-
provement Commissioners, upon the recommendation of
the Gas Committee, it was decided to lay down an addi-
tional main, to secure the better lighting of the centre of
the town, the cost of the proposed new work being under
£300. Mr. Kingston advised the Board not to spend more
than was necessary on their old gas works, as he held the
opinion that gas lighting would in a few years be replaced
by electric light.
Islington. — At the meeting of the Islington Vestry
last Friday, the Special Electric Lighting Committee pre-
sented a recommendation that a provisional order authoiis-
ing the Vestry to supply electricity in the parish should be
applied for. The committee have arrived at this decision
after exhaustive research and the advice of an eminent
engineer, and they have come to the conclusion that it
is possible to give the supply at 5d. per unit, as against
6d. in St. Pancras and 8d. as mentioned by other
promoters.
Viotoria-embankment. — We are pleased to see the
London County Council are intending to take in hand the
lighting of the embankment, once so resplendent with
602
THE ELECTRICAL ENGIKEBR, JUNE 24, 1892.
Jablochkoff lampi. After coDiideretion the Highway Com-
mittee conaider it would be advisable for the Coancil to
have their own iaatallation for thit purpose, the cost of
initallatioa being not over £10,000, and the cost of main-
tenance not to exceed £2,000 a year. Subject to an esti-
mate, tliey propoae to pnt this installation in hand very
shortly.
Central London Rallmur. — The Select Committee
of the House of Commons, to whom was referred all the
London electric railway schemes, having declined to
consider in the present Parliament the scheme promoted by
the Central London Railway Company to extend their
aathorised railway from the Mansion House to Liverpool-
street StatioD, the promoters have come to an airangement
with the whole of the opponents, numbering upwards of
10, whereby do further opposition will be offered to this
extension in either House.
IdghOng of Private ReridenoeB.— Mr. T. Burt
Heywood, of Woodhatch, Rei?ate, has decided to adopt
the electric light in his private residence, and has placed
the contract for the work with Massre. Drake and Ghirham.
The power will be derived from a 7-b.p. Otto gas engine
driving an eight-kilowatt dynamo. This firm has a large
namber of other country house installations in hand,
including Oallaly Castle, Northumberland, for Major
Browne ; Chalfont Park, Slough, for Captain PentoUj
U.P. ; and Lawnburst, Didsbnry, for Mr. Henry Simon.
Paris. — Those electric light companies that have adopted
the system of open conduits with forced air ventilation,
BQoh as is used at St. Pancras, have shown considerable
foresight. We notice that at Paris another explosion took
place, this time in the Rue Br6da, Thursday last week, sup-
posed to be from escaping gas exploded from a spark. That
the gas was to blame is evident from the fact that no sooner
was the cover replaced than it was again forced up and
broke in two. Certainly here electrolytic action, the
cause sometimes attributed, could not have been at work,
and an escape of nrdinary lighting gas must have been
present
Soarboroni^ — At the last meeting of the Scarborough
Town Council, the report of the Lighting Committee was
brought forward. The committee resolved that before any
further steps be taken it is desirable that the committee
should have an interview with Mr. Bernard Drake, the
electrical engineer to the Council. They also resolved that
the town clerk should write to six towns where electric
lighting is in operation, and ascertain from them what was
the cost of their plant, etc., what number of electric lights
they have in use, the amount of the annual expenditure,
and the amount of the annual receipts. The further con-
sideration of these minutes was deferred to the next meet
ing of the committee.
Baaunoramitit, — At the Hammersmith Vestry meeting
last week, with reference to the application of the Putney
and Hammersmith Electric Lighting Company (consent to
which was given in January last) the committee reported
they had again considered the letter from the company,
stating that the conditions upon which the Vestry were
prepared to give their consent to the West London electric
lighting provisional order were so onerous that they had
no option but to abandon the application, and asking that
the £300 deposited with Che Vestry be returned. They
recommended that the money be returned, and this the
Vestry agreed to, having refused the application on a
previous occasion, when the report was referred back for
further consideration.
Varley Memorial. — A meeting attended by Messrs.
B, E. Crompton, T. E. Gatehouse, W. A. Gorman, Prof.
D. E Hughes, T. Parker, Major Flood Page, A Stroh and
J. W. Swan, was recently held at the rooms of the Institu-
tion of Electrical Engineers for the purpose of discussing
the best method of recognising the great services of Mr.
Samuel Varley to the electrical industry. The meeting
was nnantmously of opinion that the services of Mr.
Samuel Varley to the electric industry deserved snhetantial
recognition, and that everyone intereeted in electric
engineering should be invited to join the committee
for the purpose of discussing the best form that tbis
recognition should take, and that a draft circular should
be prepared ready for submission to a meeting of the com-
mittee, which should be invited to attend at the rooma of
the Institution of Electrical Engineers at 28, Victoria-street,
on Friday, July 1, at four o'clock.
Worcester. — Wo are glad to find the Councilmen of
Worcester have determined to proceed with the work of
electric lighting instead of wasting more time in discussdng
systems after the decision. A meeting of the Watch Com-
mittee was held last Friday, the mayor (Mr. W. Holland)
presiding. The resolution of the Council referring to the
committee the duty of recommending as to what portions
of the Brush Company's tender for the eteotrie lighting
scheme should be accepted was reported. Alderman
Higgs proposed that the company should be requested
to tender for a supply of 6,000 lamps only. He urged
that the present tender providing for an installation of
20,000 lamps, with 12,000 constantly running, was greaUy
in excess of the present or prospective requirements of the
city. The motion was not seconded. The resolution of
the committee was referred to a sub -committee to
consider and report what part of the work should be
proceeded with.
State Telephones. — In the House of Lords on Tues-
day, Lord Balfour of Burleigh moved the second reading
of the Telegraphs Bill, which, he said, was introduced for
the purpose of giving effect to a Treasury Minute of May
24 last. The main feature of the Bill was the revision of
the present system of telephones. There was only one
clause to which it was necessary to call attention. Id
some districts of the country the inhabitants were deprived
of the advantages of telephonic communication by the un-
willingness of landlords to allow wires to be afiBxed to their
property. The clause to which he referred proposed that
where assent was unreasonably withheld the PosUnaater-
General might apply to the Bailway Commission to
authorise the fixing of wires, and that, if the Commission
made an order and the owner was dissatisfied, the order
should be laid before Parliament and dealt with in the
same way as provisional orders. He thought their lordships
would agree that the time had come when the obstruction
of one or two persons should not be allowed to deprive
the inhabitants of a large district of the advantages of
telephonic communication.
Enrlnoers fiir Spain. — Mr. £. G. Pink, plaintiff in
the action of Pink v. Electricity Supply Company for Spain,
Limited, was engaged under contract as resident engineer
in Madrid. Being unable to agree with the manager in
Spain on technical matters of importance, plaintiff, after a
fruitless appeal to the directors of the company in London,
offered to resign, and was dismissed by the said manager.
He returned to London under protest, and eventually
commenced proceedings. The case was finally settled out
of court by the defendants paying three months' salary in
lieu of notice, first-class travelling expenses, and all costs.
Mr. Pink has also received a letter from the company
stating that the directors feel assured he did his best to
promote the interests of the company, and that they much
regret that the termination of agreement was unaroidable
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 24, 1892.
003
owing entirely to a dt&eiQnce of opinion with the general
manager of the company in Spain, due in a. great measure
to the want of a common language in which they could
converse freely. The directors do not impute any blame
in the matter, and recognise at the same time the important
economiea effected by him iu the working of the station.
They further atate they will be happy to recommend him
for the post of chief engineer to any similar undertaking.
The moral seems to be — learn the language of the country
in which you are going to be engineer.
Lighting the GoildhaU. — At the meeting of the
Commissioners of Sewers last week, Mr. Pannell presented
the report of the Gity Lands Committee, recommending
that the Guildhall and offices, library, and Council chamber
should be fitted with electric light installattons, at an esti-
mated cost of about XI, 750 for the installations and £500
per annum for the current and maintenance. Mr, Pannell
explained that the total cost would be X4,500, and the
annual expense on completion would be £1,600, against
£1,156 for the present supply of gaa. Mr. MacGeagh
asked whether the City of London Court could be
supplied with the electric light, the cost of which
would be paid out of the funds of the Court. Mr.
Stanley asked whether the committee had made any
arrangement with the City of London Electric Lighting
Company with respect to the cost per unit. Mr. Pannell
replied that it would be obvious that the committee could
not enter into negotiations as to prices until an instruction
had been received from the Court. Mr. Stanley explained
that the company could easily supply the current at 6d.
per unit, and make a large profit, but he believed that
they had the power to charge 8d, per unit, Mr. King
said it might be passible at a future date to have
the installation at Guildhall for the supply of the
building and the Mansion House too, but at the present
tims it was thought that they should give the electric
lighting company the chance of supplying the current.
Mr. Wallace expressed an opinion that the work ought to
be put out to contract. Mr. A. T, Layton, who said he
had had some experience of electric lighting, thought the
Guildhall could not be supplied for £500 per annum. Mr.
Pannell believed the work could be done for the estimated
amount, the committee having been assisted by the advice
of Mr. Preece, and he thought also that it would be better
for the CorjKiration to wait before taking upon itself the
responsibility of doing the work. The report of the com-
mittee was then adopted.
Yarmoath. — The Yarmouth Town Council have
decided that they will employ a consulting engineer and
get out plans and estimates, but that they will not actually
pass a resolution to put down an installation at the present
moment. At the meeting last week, it was stated that the
town clerk had informed the committee that the Council
could lay down suitable and sufficient distributing mains
for a general supply of electricity to the town. It was
agreed by the committee— {(i) that the Town Council be
recommended to carry out the necessary works for pro-
viding a system of electric lighting in the borough, and
that the providing of electricity be not handed over
to a company ; (b) that Messrs. Crompton, Messrs,
J. E. H. Gordon and Co., Messrs. Woiidhouse and
RawBon, Messrs. Hammond, the Planet Llectrical Kngi-
neering Company, and the Brush Company be asked to sub-
mit schemes with estimates at which they would be
prepared to carry out an installation suitable for the
requirements of the town, and that the borough surveyor
be instructed to furnish plans and the necessary particulars;
(r) and that the committee be authorised to employ a con-
sulting engineer u> advise them on the specifications and
tenders. When this report came before the Council, Mr.
de Caux asked for the cost. He did not think the Corpo-
ration should enter into any such speculation as was pro-
posed. The report as to the experience of other towns did
not give a rosy view, and certainly did not load to the con-
clusion that the scheme could be carried out without
charge to the ratepayers. He was perfectly satisfied that
if they entered into the matter it would land the town in
enormous expense. He moved the expunging of the
report, Mr. Martins urged the adoption of the scheme in
order to prevent the introduction of a monopolising com-
pany. Mr. W, Palmer said the question was whether the
Coiporation were to retain the control in their hands, or
to hand it over to a private company. Mr. Tomldns, while
approving the introduction of the new light, preferred to
know what the coat would be before taking any definite
steps. Mr. de Caux's resolution was then put and lost by
17 to 13. A further amendment, moved by Mr. TomkiuB,
and seconded by Mr. J. H. Palmer, that paragraph (a) be
struck out ot the report, was carried by 18 to 4. The
report thus amended was then adopted.
Expert's Opinion. — An amusing case came before the
St. Martin's County Court last Friday, when the value of
an electrical expert's opinion was called in question. The
case was a cross summons by Mr. Ernest CtaremoDt,
described as manager to the Metropolitan Electric Supply
Company, for £10. 10s. fee for testing a lamp, against a
county court summons by Messrs. Smith and Son, ol the
Strand, for jewellery received and not paid for. It
seems from the evidence given by Messrs. Smith and
Mr. Claremont, that when the latter was summoned,
a counter-claim for testing was sent in, Messrs. Smith
denying that any order was given for an expert
test as claimed. Their window had been fitted with
electric light by F. Suter and Co., and it was noticed
that a slight dampness was observable. Mr. Claremont
called attention, or had his attention called to this fact, and
the suggestion was made he should take the lamp home and
test it, Messrs. Smith maintaining this was a simple friendly
transaction. Not-so Mr. Claremont, who swore on oath it
was his opinion he had been called in as an expert,
that he never usually accepted a fee of lees than 2.^
guineas, that testing by a photometer was a very delicate
test, one of the most delicate an electrician could under-
take, that the test took him 300 hours with considerable
expense for current. Amongst other questions, Mr.
Claremont answered that he tested for extraordinary
heat in the lamp and for life of the lamp, that a
good lamp should give out no heat at all, absolutely
none ; that the cause of extra heat would be bad vacuum
or bad manufacture, that it was a most delicate test,
that one hour would be enough to test for vacuum,
but 300 hours was not too much to test as desired, that
10 guineas was certainly not too much for testing a thres
and ninepenny lamp, and that they should not have called
in expert opinion ; that he did not send in the account until
the summons was issued, because it took two months, and
he had not furnished the report. His report was that
be had tested the 8-c.p. 100-volt lamp, and could find
absolutely nothing the matter with it ; it gets a little
hot when overrun, but not sufficiently so to cause the
dampness complained of. The manager of Messrs. Smith
gave evidence to the eflect that no one considered that a
charge was to be made ; and Mr. Suter contradicted Mr.
Claremont's statements as to the entire absence of heat,
the necessity for a long test, and the fairness of the charge.
The Court found that there was no warrant for such a
large charge, and awarded one guinea on account of the
claimed test.
604
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 24, 1892.
METEBS FOR RECORDING THE CONSUMPTION
OF ELECTRICAL ENERGY.'
BT CHARLES HENRY WORDINOHAM, A.K.C, HTUD.INST.C.K.
(Condvdfd fivm page 593.)
A most ingenious moditicatioii has been introduced into
this meter by Mr. Miller, of the Kenaingtoii and Knights-
bridge Electric Light Company. Ho employs only one
clock, which drives a soft iron ciiau through the diOerential
gesr already described. The disc revolves in front of a
coil carrying the current to be measured and is retarded by
it. This admirable device does away with the whole
trouble of synchronising, as there ia only one clock, and
prevents the danger of the record being destroyed by one
clock stopping. There should be an excellent future for
this meter.
An adaptation of the Aron meter, made by the same
iorentor, supplies a great want felt by users of secondary
batteries — viz., an indicator of the amount of charge in the
battery. Now it is obvious that if the main current be
revtrsed in the wattmeter form, repiilsion will ensue and
the pendulum will be retarded, the meter, in consequence,
tegisteritrg backwards Mr. Miller found that, with the
oi^inary form of coils, if the current was reversed, the
indications were not accurate, owing partly to the slow
speed. He accordingly altered the form of the coils and
shortened the pendulums, and in tbio way be succeeded in
producing a meter that would register accurately, which
ever way the current flowed, In order to ascertain the
condition as to charge of a secondary battery, he charges it
fully through this meter, and notes the quantity registered.
The battery is then allowed to discharge through the meter,
and the instrument goes back. When the time for re-
charging arrives, all the attendant has to do is to keep on
the charging current until the meter shows its original
reading. In this way the exact state of the battery is
shown by an inspection of the meter.
The Richard FnVes meter has been adapted to the same
purpose by so mounting the 6no wire coil that it can deflect
on either side of its position of rest, thus driving the counting
train either way according to the direction of the current.
It has also been arranged that if a fixed loss In the battery
be assumed, it can be allowed for by inserting a resistance
in series with the fine wire coil when charging, thus making
the meter register only the percentage of the chare;ing
current that will be returned,
OuUon-Edmundstm MdfT. — In this the ordinary pendulums
are replaced by horizontal balances oscillating al about one-
quarter the speed, the torsion being supplied by a straight
flat spring, which also serves as a suspension. The two
clocks are driven by one mainspring. The controlled
pendulum canies two fine wire coils, one swinging within
tbe main coil, and the other above it, Each of the movable
coils consists of two circuits, one placed across the lamp
leads in the ordinary way. the other forming a shunt across
the main coil ; the small current passing through this second
circuit is stated to be required in order to raise the constant
at the higher readings. This meter in its present form has
only recently been introduced.
Ktlvin Meier.— One of the latest additions to this class of
meter comes from the hands of Lord Kelvin, the inventor
who has produced so many electrical measuring instruments
of nnaurjMissed accuracy. As a laboratory instrument, no
doubt the meter about to be described is extremely accurate,
but it may be doubted whether it is suitable for practical
use. In the tirst place, it is somewhat unreasonable to ex-
pect a consumer to descend every day to his coal-cellar, it
nay be, in order to wind up an instrument of which be is,
in all probability, afraid and looks upon as some infernal
machine. Next, it has working parts of extreme delicacy,
and is unsuitable to put into the hands of an ordinary
linesman. Lastly, it is preferable to have a continuous,
rather than an intermittent integrator.
The instrumeat ia a combination of a weight-driven clock
which automatically breaks the circuit when it requires wind-
ing, an ampere balance, and an integrating cam. A fixed
coil carries the main current, and in front of it is placed a
* From the Trrmtoflioni of the Inatitatlon of Civil Engineers.
fine wire coil carried at the end of a vertical aluminium
lever free to turn on knife edges about a horizontal axis.
The lower end of this lever has attached to it a train of
counting wheels, the first one of which can roll on a cylin-
drical cam which is kept revolving at a constant speed by
meana of the clock. When a current passes through the
main coil the other is repelled, and the rolling wheel, which
originally stood clear of the cam, moves over it, is raised
by it, and rolls on its surface, thus actuating the counting
wheels. Now the cylindrical surface of the cam ia cut
away screw fashion, so that, when at one end of it, the
wheel only rolls for a small portion of its revolution, and
at the other remains on it for the greater part of a revolu-
tion, the time it remains on being proportional to the current
corresponding to the position of the lever. A series of
grooves are cut on the surface of the cam so that, once
engaged, the wheel cannot shift sidewas's. A scale is pro-
vided over which the lever moves, enabling the instrument
to be employed as an ampere gauge and its indications to
be checked. The constant of the instrument can be altered
so as to adapt it to various currents, by altering the weight
on a horizontal rod projecting from the movable arm, and
by altering the height of a nut on a vertical screw.
Class 4.
Edison Meier. — This is a meter adapted to continuous
currents only, and depends for its operation on the electro-
lytic action of the current, A definite portion of the
current to be measured is shunted through a bath contain-
ing a solution of zinc sulphate, the electrodes being of
amalgamated zinc. The meter in its latest form contains
three essential parts : (1) the electrolytic cell and compen-
sating coil, (2) the shunt resistance, and (3) a device for
keeping the electrolyte from freezing. The case of the
meter is of well seasoned hard wood, specially prepared to
exclude air and to secure good insulation, and its front is
closed by a substantial sheet-iron door.
(1) The cell. This is of bottle form, and is covered to
avoid evaporation. It is partially filled with a 10 per
cent, zinc sulphate solution in which are suspended zinc
plates supported by screws and nuts on ebonite distance-
pieces, connection being made to them by copper rods beld
by spring clips. The plates are prepared by being first
thoroughly cleaned, then covered on the top and for a short
distance up the rod with aspbahe varnish, and lastly,
amalgamated and dried. The positive plate ia weighed
before being immersed. The size of the plates is regulated
by the maximum current the meter is intended to carry,
the quantity of zinc allowed for being at the rate of 150
milligrams per month for every ampere of nominal capacity.
If the meter is likely to run at its full load for a large
number of hours during the day, a larger cell is required
than the above amount would give. In calculating the
quantity that has passed through the meter, one ampere
flowing for one hour is taken as de|)oaiting 1,224 milli-
grams of zinc. The counter E.M.F. of the coll decreases
as the temperature rises, and its resistance also falls ; in
order to compensate for tbe error thus introduced, a copper
coil, the resistance of which of course increases with the
temperature, is placed in series with the cell, and is so
adjusted that the eflective resistance of the combination is
identical at 50deg. F. and at 86deg. F., varying about
1 ]}er cent, between these two points. As regards the
change of effective resistance with change of current, it ia
found that the increase in counter E.M.F. is about compen-
sated for by the fall in resistance of tbe cell.
(2) Tbe shunt resistance is of Uerman silver, and haa
such a value that ^Ijth part of the whole current flows
through the coll. 'l^ho resistance of this material varies
1 per cont. for every 45deg. F. change in temperature, and
the maximum temperature attained by the meter is about
ISOdeg. F.; hence tbe error from this source does not exceed
3 per cent.
(3) The cell is kept from freezing by means of an in-
candescent lamp placed in the case of tbe meter and auto-
matically lighted by means of a thermostat when the tern-
peratTire falls below a certain value. This portion of the
apparatus consists of a com|K)und metallic strip which
alters its curvature when the temperature falls, completing
the circuit through the lamp. The contact jminb is carried
THE ELECTRICAL El^fllNBER, JCNE 24, 1892.
603
by A screw having a pitch of jV'''-' ^^^^ ^ hexagon head,
the faces of which are numbered. In this way the tem-
perature of contact can be adjusted to within 2deg. F.
A curve given by Mr. W. J. Jenks in a. paper on this
meter, read before tbe American Institute of Electrical
Engineers, shows that after three amperes the rate of
deposit is abaolutely constant up to 20 amperes ; tbe meter
having, therefore, a sevenfold range, and registering with
the smallest current, the error is in favour of the consumer.
The chief objections to this meter are the remarkably
small fraction of the current that is measured — any error,
either in deposit or in weighing the plates, being multiplied
nearly a thousandfold; thenecessity for theconsumer relying
entirely upon the good faith of the supply company for tbe
accuracy of his account — it being absolutely impossible for
bim to check his consumption from day to day, or to ascer-
tain for himself the amount registered by bis meter ; and
the constant attention required — the plates having to be
removed every month, weighed and replaced.
This meter is extensive use in Ameria, and was used
with satisfactory results at Eastbourne before the system
was changed to an alternating-current one ; it has not,
however, met with much favour in this country.
Lowrie-HallrKolU Meier. — This meter attempts to apply
the electrolytic method to the measurement of slternating
currents, and was worked out by the three inventors whose
names it bears when they altered the Bystem at Eastbourne
from continuous to alternating, the Edison meter having
given, as already stated, satisfaction in the former case.
Id series with the converter is placed a secondary cell,
giving a pressure of two volts, and an electrolytic bath.
The eSect of this is to raiae the positive wave bodily by
two volts, and to diminish the negative wave by tbe same
amount, the ei)ect being the equivalent of two volts always
acting in one direction through the circuit—the current
flowing being proportional to the number of lamps turned
on. llie whole current thus passed through tbe secondary
cell, but so far from it having any ill effect it seemed to
prevent sulphating. It was found that in a suitable elec-
trolytic solution, any metal can be by this method depo-
sited by an alternating current, and the quantity ho thrown
down used as an indication of its amount,
Improvements in other types of meter prevented this
being brought to a state of perfection in spite of its being
fairly promising. It was, however, open to at least one
serious drawback^namely, if the alternating current was
switched off, and any lamps left turned on, tbe cell dis-
charged through them and caused a registration to be
effected in the electrolytic bath ; moreover, the secondary
cell had to be recharged every three months, and there can
be little doubt that the inventors would have had trouble
with the direct electrolytic action of the alternating current,
for it has been shown that without any secondary battery
being in circuit, such a current will cause deposition of an
uncertain amount, depending on the size of the electrodes.
Testing of MerERij.
In the commercial employment of meters, an important
matter is their efficient and rapid testing ; and it may be of
some interest if the author describe the arrangements
designed and used by him for testing the meters employed
by the London Electric Supply Corporation. Their system
being an alternating one, only meters adapted to this class
of current are provided for. The kinds used are Ferranti
mercury, Ferranti- Wright and Frager.
The method adopted in testing tbe mercury meters is to
string a number tc^ether with their main coils in series
with one another, and with an adjustable non-inductive
resistance, the shunt coils being connected in parallel across
the converter terminals.
It may he well here to call attention to a source of error
that is likely to be overlooked in testing any kind of shunted
meter. 'When in use, the ahunt coil has one end attached
to tbe shunt terminal and the other to the converter end
of tbe series coil. If the maters be connected in series,
each being allowed to feed its shunt in the ordinary way,
two errors will be introduced, as an inspection of Fig. 11
will show : (1) With large currenta in the series coils, the
shunt of the meter nearest the converter is the only one
receiving its full pressure (100 volts); the second has a
pressure that is less than the 100 volts by an amount equal
to the drop of pressure in the first ; the third is deficient
by the drop in two meters, and so on, the last of a long
series receiving much less than 100 volts. (2) The last
meter is the only one that has flowing throi^h its series
coil the current that is measured ; the last but one
receiving in addition to this the shunt current of the last;
the third from the end those of the last two ; and eo on to
tbe one nearest the converter, which receives in addition to
the measured current the sum of all the shunt currents of
the other meters. These two errors are easily and com-
pletely disposed of by running a separate lead from the con-
verter to excite them, as shown in Fig. 12.
To resume, the reading of the dials having been noted,
the desired current is thrown on, and kept on for a time
sufficient to obtain a reading of such a magnitude that an
error of ± O'l would not affect the constant more than
1 per cent. It is then thrown oS, and the reading is taken
when the meters have come to rest. The number of revolu-
tions per hour shown by the dials having been calculated from
the difference of the readings, it is divided by the product
of the current and the pressure ; this gives the number of
revolutions per watt-hour, and, when multiplied by 1,000,
the " constant " — i.t., the number of revolutions — per Board
of Trade unit. The pressure, and therefore the current, is
maintained constant within one half per cent., by the means
described below.
Obviously there is a slight error in this method owing
to the meters requiring time to get up speed, but this is
compensated for in practice by their taking approximately
the same time to slow down after the current is removed.
When the current is so small that the time required for a
run is inconveniently long, the meters are allowed to
attain their full speed with that current and the centre
hands are counted, the number of revolutions at the end of
1, 2, 3 . . . minutes being noted. With practice,
it is easy to estimate to the tenth of a revolution,
and these meters revolve with such remarkable regularity
that repeated experiments have shown it to be quite safe to
infer the constant from a two-minutes count. The rate per
hour of the dials having been calculated, the constant is
found as before. This meter, as has been shown, has so
smooth a curve that it is sufficient to adjust it at two points,
one being that of maximum current and the other oue-
tenth nmximum.
The Ferranti- Wright meters are tested in exactly the
same way as the last, except that the first method is always
used, the centre needle never being counted. Three points
are usually determined in the curve, one being the maximum
606
TttE ELaCtftiCAL ENGINEER, JUNE 24, 189^,
oiimnt, one about one-seventh maximum, and one midway
between the two.
The Frsger meters also are stning in aeriee, and the same
precantioTU obBsrvsd as regards exciting their shunts, but
their different nature requires a diSerent method of testing.
There are two stages : (I) In the first the clock motor is
timed and adjusted antil it beats seconds within 2 or 3 per
cent. (2) rfae meter as a whole is tested. The dials being
set to zero, and the snails being in such a position that the
levers have just left them (this is to allow tbim to become
steady before engaging with the snails), the desired current
is thrown on and the pressure, and therefore the current,
kept constant within i par cent, until the snails have made
six complete revolutions. When the lever of the slowest
meter has left the snail, the current is taken off and the
readings are noted. The known percentage errors of the
clocks having been allowed for, the number of Board of
Trade luiits that would have been registered by each in an
honr is calculated, and this is compared with the actual
amount that would have passed in an hour. The percentage
error is then corrected by altering the ratio of the wheels
between the snail spindle and the train as already described.
Fro. 14.
Passing on to the arrangements for performing the above
tests, it may be well to remark that the space at the author's
disposal was extremely limited : two rooms, one above the
other, each 28ft. long, 13ft. wide at one end tapering away
to 3ft. at the other, having to sufBce for testing-room,
stores, Fragar meter repairing shop, and for containing the
converters. The upper room was taken for testing, the
lower for workshop, converter-room, and stores; a nand-
iift'in one comer formed a convenient means of communi-
cation. The testing-room is all that need be described ;
the narrow end is partitioned off, and a reflecting
galvanometer and Wneatstone bridge placed in the
chamber so formed ; the galvanometer rests on a
shelf Buppcoted on H-iron cantilevers let into the
wall, thus avoiding vibration. A apace about 6ft wide
on the wall opposite the windows is faced with
solid teak thoroughly coated with shellac, and to this are
attached all switches ; 5ft. 2in. from the floor a shelf, sup-
ported like the one for the reflecting galvanometer, serves
OS a steady base for the ampere balances. Above this are
fixed the primary fuses and switches, from which vulcanised
indiarubber-covered cables, carried in iron pipes chased
into the wall, lead to the converters in the room below.
A standard horizontal, tube-pattern Oardew voltmeter,
made by Messrs. Goolden and Co., is fixed below the
switches, and shows the pressure on the shunt coils.
Beneath the shelf are placed all the secondary switches.
With a few trifling exceptions, the secondary connections
for large currents are made of bare copper strip lin. by
Y^in. supported on teak cleats, coated with shellac, the
number of strips being proportioned to the current to be
conveyed. This is a very convenient and cheap method,
and, when neatly done, looks well.
The mercury and Ferranti-Wright meters stand on
narrow teak shelves one above the other, fixed on light
T-iron cantilevers projecting from the wall.
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Fro. 17.
It seemed desirable to be able to carry on testa of all
three kinds of meter simultaneously, and so three sepante
testing circuits, each with its adjustable resistances and
switches, were provided. A fourth circuit was added, for
running meters from 18 to 24 hours continuously on full
load, to determine whether they would rise to an unsafe
temperature.
An obvious way of reducing the cost of testing is to feed
the main coils with current at a low pressure, say 10 volts,
and to excite the shunts with onlv 100 volts. After care-
ful consideration the author decided not to adopt this plan,
partly because he was not absolutely satisfied that it gave
results identical with those obtained when both were
THE ELECTRICAL ESGIKEER, JUNE 24, 1892.
607
azGit«d from tfae aame Bonroe, and partly because with
many meters in serieB the preseare would have to be raised
with large cuirenta, and the additional complication entailed
eeemed hardly compensated for by the saving in expense.
This objection clearly does not apply to the heating test,
in which the shunts are not excited and no measurements
are made ; and, accordingly, a converter giving current at
10, 20, or 30 volta pressure at will in ita secondary is
employed, the lowest pressure that will give the desired
carrent throngb the circuit being used, this pressure varying
with the namber of meters in series.
The mercury meter testing circuit is provided with
reaiatances having a conductivity of I'll mho, divided into
three seta — one of one mho, having 10 steps of O'l mho
each; one of O'l mho, divided into 10 steps of 001 mho
each; and one of O'Ol mho, divided into five steps of 0002
mho each. Each aet has its members brought to a switch
which, by the rotation of a hand-wheel, joins the desired
number of coils in parallel one after the Other. In this
manner any current up to 111 amperes can be obtained by
BtepB of 0-S ampere.
It may be well to give a few details respecting thoae coils
and switohea.
of coile in parallel, and there is none of the annoyance
experienced when a number of separate switches are
used and an effort of memory has to be made to remember
which Bwitchea allow the desired current to pass ; moreover,
at full load there is no idle wire. The switch for the one-
ampere sat is similar, but, of course, haa only six contacts.
The three sizes of switch are ahown in Figs. 14, 16, and 16.
It will be seen that the details vary slightly, but all are
provided with brass eyes, into which the leads are sweated.
Ferranti-Wright meters are provided with an identical
set of resistances and switches.
The Frager meter testing circuit haa resistances having
a conductivity of 222 mhos, the finest adjustment being
0004 mho instead of 0-002. Only the third set is wound
on zinc cylinders, the other two being of bare wire on
wrought-iron framea, and the two-mho set is on two separate
frames, having one mho conductivity each.
For the circuit for running the meters on full load, the
preaaure being only 10 volts, coils having a conductivity of
22-2 mhos are uaed, the adjustment being by steps of 0-04
mho. These coila are, of course, much shorter than tboae
used with 100 volts pressure, bnt are mounted in the same
general way.
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Coils. — All the wires are of platinoid, and the diameter
in no case exceeds 1^ millimetre, the object being to allow
them to attain their final temperature rapidly. The coils
that have to carry 10 amperes are of No. 17 RW.G. bare
Slatinoid wire, and are wound in two parallel oppositely-
irected spirals carried on circular brown porcelain in-
enlators, through which are passed bolts fixed to a light
wrought-iron frame. The spirals are steadied by passing
over two intermediate seta of insulators. Fig. 13 shows
the arrangement. The other two seta of coils are wound
on zinc cylinders about 3Jin. in diameter, split parallel to
their axea to eliminate eddy currenta, and each spiral ia
wound half in one direction and half in the other.
SwUches. — Thoae for the 100-ampere and the 10-ampere
coila have each 11 ringcontacte, projecting inwards radially
round a semicircle. The first contact is of sufficient size
to carry ^the whole current of the set of coils to which it
belongs,' while the other 10 are in each case adapted to the
current that flows through each member of the set. A
brass sector, worked by a hand-wheel insulated from it,
subtending the same uigle at the centre of the switch
as the 11 contacts, is ao placed that when the hand-
wheel is moved continuously in* one direction, it is
forced succeaaively through all the ring contacts, thus
connecting the 10 one after the other with the first.
The position of the handwheel thus detenninea the number
^ With the exception of the last-named circuit, all are fed
from an ordinary Ferranti 40-h.p. converter, transforming
from 2,400 volta to 100 volte, and therefore giving about
300 amperea in its aecondary. This current is sufficient,
aince it is easy to so arrange the runs that it ia not exceeded.
There is a certain amount of drop of pressure at full load,
even in this type of converter, which is exceptionally good
in this respect, and the ordinary high-tenaion aervice mains
being used, the preaaure cannot always be relied upon to
be exactly 100 volts. In order to obtain a constant pressure,
the author employs a subeidiary regulating converter,
having its secondary in aeries with the main converter; it
transforms down from 2,400 volte to 9^ volta, and will yield
300 amperes in ite secondary. Connection can be made at
10 pointa of ita aecondary, so as to obtain the current at a
pressure of ^, IJ, 2j, to 9^ volts. By means of one two-
way and one ten-way switch, the preaaure can be varied
9j volta (see Fig. 16). In the primary is a reversing
awitch, so that thia converter can either help or oppoae
the main. In this way a regulation of 9J volta either
way, or range of 19, is obtained. This, of course, is
unnecessarily large, but it was designed for use when the
Deptford works were still in a more or less ezperimontal
stage, and the large margin was very useful.
The current is measured by Ix)rd Kolvin'a standard
balancea, of which there are three, one reading nominally to
608
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JtJNE 24, 189S.
1 0 amperes, but actually to six amperes (getting very hot even
with this if the current is on for any length of time), one
reading to 100 amperes and the third to 600 amperes. All
these are required on each testing circuit, though only one
at a time ; in order, therefore, to render any one available
for all circuits a switch is employed, consisting of two sets
of bars running at right angles to one another, on opposite
sides of a slab of slate. At alternate points of crossing, holes
are drilled through bars and slate, being tapped in those at
the back, and allowing brass bolts provided with insulating
handles to pass through the front bars and the slate. These
bolts have each a collar which takes a bearing on the front
bar when the bolt is screwed into the back, thus connecting
the bars. By means of two such bolts any two vertical
bars, to which are connected the balances, can be joined to
any two horizontal bars, to which are brought the circuits.
Two spare vertical bars or ** bridges," with holes drilled at
every point of intersection, take the place of the balance in
the circuit without one (usually the heating circuit), and
admit of changing from one balance to another without
stopping the run. This switch is shown in Fig. 17.
The circuit is never broken with the plugs. A single-
break ** pointsman " switch is placed in each circuit, and
admits of runs being started and stopped in any one circuit
independently of the others.
The number of meters of any kind required to be tested
at once is constantly varying, and if two fixed terminals
only are provided between which to join them, a number
of different lengths of cable for connecting them thereto
are required ; these are clumsy and unsightly, and the
following has been found to be a convenient device. A series
of brass bars, about 2ft. 6in. long, having bolts and nuts
projecting at intervals of Sin. or 9in., are fixed on teak
against the wall above the shelf on which the meters stand :
bridging-pieces serve to bridge across the gaps when re-
quired. Short pieces of very flexible cable, terminating in
brass eyes, are used to join the ends of a set of meters to
the nearest bolts of separate bars. On removing the
bridging-piece connecting the bars, the meters are looped
in. Another advantage of this is that a second batch of
meters can be got ready at another part of the shelf while
the first are running.
Fig. 18 shows diagrammatically the arrangement of the
whole testing plant described above.
EXPERIMENTS WITH ALTERNATE CURRENTS OF
HIGH POTENTIAL AND HIGH FREQUENCY-*
BY NIKOLA TKSLA.
(Concluded from paije 595.)
Another line of experiment, which has been aesiduously
followed, was to induce by electro-dynamic induction a current or
luminous discharge in an exhaustea tube or bulb. This matter
has received such an able treatment at the hands of Prof. J. J.
Thomson that I could add but little to what he has made known,
even had I made it the special subject of this lecture. Still, since
experiences in this line have gradually led me to the present views
and results, a few words must be devoted here to this subject. It
has occurred, no doubt, to many, that as a vacuum tube is made
longer the E.M.F. per unit length of the tube necessair to pass a
luminous discharge through the latter, gets continually smaller :
therefore, if the exhausted tube be made long enough, even with
low fre(^uencios a luminous discharge could be induced in such a
tube closed upon itself. Such a tube might be placed around a
hall or on a ceiling, and at once a simple appliance capable of
fiving considerable light would be obtained. But this would
e an ap[)liance hard to manufacture and extremely unmanage-
able. It would not do to make the tube up of small lengths,
because there would be with ordinary frecjuencies considerable
loss in the coatings, and, besides, if coatings were used it would
be better to supply the current directly to the tube by connecting
the coatings to a transformer. But even if all objections of such
nature were removed, still, with low frequencies the light conver-
sion itself would be inefficient, as I have before stated. In using
extremely high frequencies the length of the secondary — in other
words, the size of the vessel — can be reduced as far as desired, and
the efficiency of the light conversion is increased, provided that
means are invented for efficiently obtaining such high frequencies.
* Lecture delivered before the Institution of Electrical
Engineers at the Royal Institution, on Wednesday evening,
February 3, 1892. From the JouriuU of the Institution of
Electrical Engineers.
Thus one is led, from theoretical and practical considerations,
to the use of high frequencies, and this means high E M.F.'b
and small currents in tne primary. When he works with con-
denser charges— and these are the only means up to the pre-
sent known for reaching these extreme frequencies — he geta to
E.M.F.*8of several thousands of volte per turn of the primary.
He cannot multiply the electro • dynamic inductive effect by
taking more turns in the primary, for he arrives at the conclu-
sion that the best way is to work with one single turn— though be
must sometimes depart from this rule— and he must get along
with whatever inductive effect he can obtain with one turn. But
before he has long experimented with the extreme frequencies
recjuired to set up in a small bulb an E.M.F. of several thousands
of volts, he realiBes the great importance of electrostatic effects,
and these effects grow relatively to the electro dynamic in signifi-
cance as the frequency is increased Now, if anything Is desirable
in this case, it is to Increase the frequency, and this would make
it still worse for the electro dynamic effects. On the other hand,
it is easy to exalt the electrostatic action as far i^b one likes by
taking more turns on the secondary, or combining self-induction
and capacity to raise the potential. It should also oe remembered
that, in reducing the current to the smallest value and increasing
the potential, the electric impulses of high frequency can be more
easily transmitted through a conductor. ^
These and similar thoughts determined me to devote more
attention to the electrostatic phenomena, and to endeavour to
produce potentials as high as possible, and alternating as fast as
they could be made to alternate. I then found that I could
excite vacuum tubes at considerable distance from a conductor
connected to a properly constructed coil, and that I could, by
converting the oscUlatory current of a condenser to a higher
potential, establish electrostatic alternating fields which acted
through the whole extent of a room, lighting up a tube, no
matter where it was held in space. I thought to recognise that
I had made a step in advance, and I have persevered In this line ;
but I wish to say that I share with all lovers of science and
progress the one and only desire — to reach a result ^ of utility
to men in any direction to which thought or experiment may
lead me. I think that this departure Is the right one, for I
cannot see, from the observation of the phenomena which manifest
themselves as the frequency is increasea, what there would remain
to act between two circuits conveying, for Instance, Impulses of
several hundred millions per second, except electrostatic forces.
Even with such trifling frequencies the energy would be prac-
tically all potential, ana my conviction has grown strong that, to
whatever kind of motion light may be due, it is produced^ by
tremendous electrostatic stresses vibrating with extreme rapidity.
Of all these phenomena observed with currents, or electric
impulses, of high frequency, the most fascinating for an audience
are certainly those which are noted in an electrostatic field acting
through considerable distance, and the best an unskilled lecturer
can do is to begin and finish with the exhibition of these singxilar
effects. I take a tube in the hand and move it about, and it is
lights whereverl may hold it; throughout space the invisible
forces act. ~
the vacuum
discharge
may put it away for a few weeks or months, still it retains the
faculty of being excited. What change have I produced in the
tube in the act of exciting it ? If a motion imparted to the atoms,
it is difficult to perceive how it can persist so long without being
arrested by frictlonal losses, and if a strain exerted in the dielec-
tric, such as a simple electrification would produce, it is easy to
see how it may persist indefinitely, but very difficult to under-
stand why such a condition should aid the excitation when we
have to deal with potentials which are rapidly altematiiig.
Since I have exhibited these phenoniena for the first time, I have
obtained some other Interesting effects. For instance, I have pro-
duced the incandescence of a button, filament, or wire enclosea in
a tube. To get to this result it was necessary to economise the
energy which is obtained from the field and direct most of it on
the small body to be rendered incandescent. At the beginning
the task appeared difficult, but the experiences gathered permitted
to reach the result easily. In Fig. .34 and Fig. 35 two such tubes
are Illustrated which are prepared for the occasion. In Fig. 34 a
short tube, Ti, sealed to another long tube, T, is provided with a
stem, .<*, with a platinum wire sealed in the latter. A very thin
lamp filament, /, is fastened to this wire, and connection to
the outside is made through a thin copper wire, "\ The tube is
provided with outside and inside coatings, C and Gi respectively,
and is filled as far as the coatings reach with conducting, and the
space above with insulating powder. These coatings are merely
used to enable to perform two experiments with the tube — namely,
to produce the effect desired either by a direct connection of the
body of the experimenter or of another body to the wire, w, or by
acting inductively through the glass. The stem, s, is provided
with an aluminium tube, a, for purposes before explained, and
only a small part of the filament reaches out of this tube. By
holding the tube T] anywhere in the electrostatic field the fila-
ment 18 rendered incandescent. A more interesting piece of
apparatus is illustrated in Fig. 35. The construction is the same
as before, only instead of the lamp filament a small platinum
wire, />, sealed in a stem, «, and bent above it in a circle, is con-
nected to the copper wire >/', which is joined to an Inside coating,
C. A small stem, «i, is provided with a needle, on the point of
which is arranged to rotate very freely a very light fan of mica, t\
To prevent the fan from falling out, a thin stem of glass, g, is bent
properly and fastened to the aluminium tube. VVnen the glass
tube is held anywhere in the electrostatic field the platinum wire
becomes incandfescent, and the mica vanes are rotated very fast.
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 24, 1892.
609
InteoM fihoBphoraaoeiioe nuy be excited In a bulb by merely cou-
■woting it to & pUte within the field, and the pUte need nob be
any larger than an ordinary lamp shade. The phMphoreeoenoe
excited with tbeae currents la inoomparablj more powerful than
with ordin&ry apparatus. A email phoephoreacent bulb, when
attached to a wire connected to a coil, emita anfficient light to
allow reading ordinary print at a distance ot five to six pacea. It
was of interest to eee bow some of Ibe phoephoreecent bulbe of
Prof. Crookea woald behave with these currents, and be has had
the kindneas to lend me a few for the occaaion. The effecta pro-
dnced are magnificent, especially by the sulphide of calcium and
lalpbide of dnc. From the disruptive discharge coil they glow
intmiely merely by holding them in the hand and connecting the
body to the terminal of Che coil.
To whatever resulte investigations of this kind may lead, their
chief interest lies for the present in the possibilities they offer
for the production of an efficient illuminatinf; device. In no
branch of elacbiic indaetry is an advance more desired than in
the manufacture of light. Every thinker, when considering the
barbarou; methods employed, the deplorable losses incurred in
onr beet systems of li^ht production, must have asked himself.
What is likely to be the light oF the future! Is it to be an Incan-
descent solid, as in the present lamp, or an incandescent gas, or a
phosphorescent body, or something like a burner, but incomparably
more efBcient ? There is little chance to perfect a gas burner ; not
perhaps, because human ingenuity has been bontupon that problem
for centuries without a radical departure having been made—
though this argument U aot devoid of force— but becaui>e in a
FiO. 34.— Tube with Filament
Rendered Incandescent in
an Electrostatic Field.
Fig. .35.— Crookes Experiment
in Electrostatic
Field.
burner the highervibraiiona can never be reached except by passing
through ^I the low ones. For how is a flame produced unless by
a f^ of lifted weights 1 Sach process cannot be maintained with-
out renewal, and renewal is repeated passing from low to high
vibrations. One way only seems to be open to improve a burner,
and that is by trying to reach higher degrees of incandeocenoe.
Higher lacand«M«nca is equivalent to a quicker vibration : that
means more light from the same material ; and that, again, means
more economy. In this direction some improvements have been
made, but the progress Is hampered by many limitationa
Diacarding, then, the burner, there remains the three ways first
the
tficity. Would it not seem that it is better to employ a small
button than a frail filament ! From many consi derations it
certainly must be concluded that a button is capable of higher
economy, assuming, of course, the difficulties connected with the
operation of sach a lamp to be effectively overcome. But to
tight such a lamp we require a high potential ; and US get this
economically we mult nee high frequencies, Such considerations
apply even more to the prodnoUon of light by the IncandMoence
of a gas, or by phosphorescence. In all cases we require high
id high potei ■ ' ' ""' ■' '■ ^'
frequencies and high potentials. Tbeae tbougbte occutred to me
long time ago.
Incidentally we gain, by the use of very high frequencies, many
' ' [her economy In the light production, the
advantages, snch ai
a higher economy In the Tight production, t
possibility of working with one lead, the ^ooslbility of doing av
with the lesding-in wire, etc. The question is. How fai can we
go with frequencies! Ordinary conductors rapidly lose the
facility of transmitting electric impulses when the frequency is
greatly increased. Assume the means for the production of
impulses of very great frequency brought to the ntmost perfeo-
tion, everyone wifl naturally ask how to transmit them when
the necessity arises. In transmitting snob impulses through
conductors, we must remember that we have to deal with
pressure and flow, in the ordinary interpretation of these t«rni8.
Let the pressure increase to an enormous value, and let the
flow correspondingly dimtnUh, then such impulses — variations
merely of pressare, as it were— can no doubt be transmitted
through a wire even if their frequency be many hondreds of
millions per second. It would, of course, be out of question to
transmit snch impulses through a wire immersed In a gaseous
medium, even if the wire were provided with athick and exceUent
insulation, for most of the energy would be lost in molecular
immhardment and consequent beating, The end of the wire
connected to the source would be heated, and the remote «id
would receive but a trifling part of the energy supplied. The
prime necessity, then, it such electric impulses are to be used. Is
to find means to reduce as much aa possible the dissipation. The
first thonght is, employ the thinnest possible wire surrounded by
the thickest practicable insulation. The next thought is, to
employ electrostatic screens. The insulation of the wire may be
covered with a thin conducting coating, and the latter connected
to the ground. But this would not do, as then all the energy would
pass through the conducting coating to the ground, ana nothing
would ^et to the cud of the wire. If a ground connection is
made, It can only be made through a conductor offering an
enormous Impedance, or through a condenser of extremely small
capacity. This, however, does not do away with other difficulties.
If the wave-length of the impnlses is much smaller than the
length of the wire, then corresponding short waves will be set up
in the oocducting coating, ana it will be more or less the same
as though the coating were directly connected to earth. It Is,
therefore, necessary to cub up the coating in sections much
shorter than the wave-lengtb. Such an arrangement does not .
still afford a perfect screen, but it is ten thousand times better
than none. I think it preferable to cut up the conducting coating
in small sections, even if the current-waves be much longer than
the coating. If a wire were provided with a perfect electmstatio
screen, it would be the same as though all objects were removed
from it at infinite distance. The capacity would then be reduced
to the capacity ot the wire itself, which would be very small. It
would Chen be possible to send over the wire current- vibrations of
very high frequencies at enormous distances without affecting
greatly the character ot the vibrations. A perfect screen is of
course out of question, but I believe Chat with a screen such as I
have just described telephony could be rendered practicable across
the Atlantic. According to my ideas, the gutbapercba- covered
wire should be provided with a thin conducting coating subdivided
in sections. On the top of this should be again placed a layer
of guttapercha and other insulabion, and on the top of the whole
the armour. But such cables will not be constructed, for ore long
intelligence — transmitted without wires— will throb through
the earth like a pulse through a living organism. The wonder is
Chat, with the present state of knowledge and the experiences
gained, no attempt is being made to disturb the electrostatic or
magnetic condition of the earth, and transmit, it nothing else,
intelligence. It has been my chief aim in presenting these results
to poiot out phenomena or features of novelty, and to advance
ideas which I am hopeful will serve as starting pointe of new
departures. It has besn my chief desire this evening to entertain
you with some novel eiperimenCe. Your applause, so frequently
and generously accorded, has told me Chat 1 have sucoeeded.
In conclusion, let me thank you most heartily for your kindness
and attention, and assure you that the honour I have had in
addressing such a distinguished audience, the pleasure I have
had in presenting these resuICa to a gathering ot so many able
men — and among them also some ot those in whose work for
Nlokel-platliif . — A volatile compound of nickel has
been discovered by M. Mond, obtained by passing car-
bonic oxide over nickel reduced by hydrogen. The body,
which haa been named nickel tetracarbonyle, ie diisolved in
large quantity in petroleum. Such a solution can be
uaed to nickal-plate wirea. M. Rigand hoa succeeded
in nickel-plating copper wire in the following manner :
The wire ia uncoiled from a bath of the nickel
liquid on two metallic corea connected to a dynamo, from
which a current ia passed sufScient to heat the wire to
about 90deg. or lOOdeg. C. At this temperature the nickel
tetracarbonyle ia decomposed and the metal is deposited,
giving an adherent deposit. The process seems to open
further possilnlitieB to the application of niokel-|Jatiag.
610
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 24, 1892.
THE
ELECTRICAL ENGINEER.
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Editorial and Publishingr Offices :
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Notes 601
Meters for Recording the
Consumption of Electrical
Energy 604
Experiments with Alternate
Currents of High Poten-
tial and High Frequency 608
Royal Agricultural Show at
Warwick 610
Reviews 611
Western Counties, etc.,
Telephone Amalgamation 611
Crystal Palace Exhibition ... 611
Prof. Ayrton and Mather's
D'Arsonval Galvanometer 618
Companies' Meetings 619
New Companies Bigistered 620
Business Notes 620
Provisional Patents, 1892 ... 620
Stock and Share List 620
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ROYAL AGRICULTURAL SHOW AT WARWICK.
Electrical engineers are not much concerned with
agricultural shows, but who . knows what time will
do to change these conditions ? The experiments of
the late Dr. Siemens and others to obtain direct
information about the action of electricity on plant
cultivation, have not given sufficiently practical
results to induce agriculturists to adopt any
of the proposed electrical methods. We are
inclined to the opinion that what may be
termed the method to force Nature's action, will
never come into general practical use. Upon a
small scale for luxurious purposes forcing may be
adopted, but it has not been conclusively proved
that electricity is of much use even under these con-
ditions. It may be asked, then, what has an agri-
cultural show, even if it be a Boyal show, to do
with electrical matters? It is an answer to such
a query we wish to consider. Primarily,
agricultural shows are to encourage the better
breeding of all kinds of live stock, the better
management of arable and pasture land, so as to
increase the return in crops in proportion to the
labour expended. Gradually one branch of these
shows has developed till it almost equals in interest
the branch more intimately in the popular mind
connected with such shows — we refer to the imple-
ment and machinery part of the show. Without
entering into detail, it is due to the exertions of the
Eoyal Agricultural Society that portable engines are
perfected to the extent they are. In years gone by the
competitions for the society's prize were keen, and
it was a prize eagerly sought after. This eagerness
led makers to study each detail in construction, and
economy in fuel became greater and greater. Similar
conditions ruled, and rule, in other classes of-
machinery, and the society's prizes for new ex-
hibits leads manufacturers to send to the
show. Now, one important factor in the develop-
ment of the use of electricity for lighting private
mansions is the provision of simple inexpen-
sive power motors. In many instances steam is
unavailable. In other instances gas is unobtain-
able; it is impossible to connect to ordinary gas
works, or to manufacture by the Dowson process.
Hence, in numberless cases, moneyed men at home
and abroad were unable to instal the light they so
much admired. To remedy this want, attempts
were made to use the cheap heavy oils so common
in various parfcs of the world, and fairly easily obtain-
able everywhere. It was soon seen that a good gas
motor would obtain a very extensive sale, and a walk
through the machinery department of this year's
show at Warwick will have convinced the most
sceptical that oil engines have come to stay. There
is but one objection to them, and that is the at
present seeming impossibility of getting rid of the
smell. On the other hand, several makers guarantee
engines of high efficiency. It is to be hoped that
the society will institute a competition in this
department, then we shall know exactly what
the engines will do. We say " hope," because at
present the development of oil engines seems
to appeal less to agriculturists than to electrical
engineers. When, however, we find firms of so vast
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 24, 1892.
611
experience as Crossley's, Tangye's, Hornsby's, and
others, devoting special attention to these engines,
we may be sure that such firms will not place an
engine upon the market that would detract from
their high and well-deserved reputation. As we say,
the prevailing feature of the Warwick Show is the
number of oil engines. Few other exhibits of
an electrical character were to be found,
though of course the excellent steam engines
exhibited by all the leading makers present features
of interest to electrical engineers. It is becoming
common now to see the words "as specially con-
structed for electric lighting'* applied to engines,
especially to undertype engines of the semi-portable
class. Two firms exhibited magnetic separators,
though we should be inclined to give the pnlm to that
of the Hardy Patent Pick Company, in which the iron
is subjected to run the gauntlet from a number of
magnets. This machine was, however, exhibited
last year at Doncaster and described by us at the
time.
WESTERN COUNTIES, ETC., TELEPHONE
AMALGAMATION.
This amalgamation is a natural proceeding. The
local company was an offshoot of the London
company, and the latter always held a controlling
interest. As soon, then, as it became expedient for
the National to resume possession it has done so.
The mere fact that its shares were not used in the
voting is immaterial. The holders of the shares that
did vote were really its nominees and friends, whose
interests are more bound up with the policy of the
National than with that of the local company. The
National is concentrating its forces for the fight
against the Government and possible competitors.
When practically the whole working telephone
interests are controlled in Oxford Court they
imagine there can be no divergent opinions assist-
ing antagonists, otherwise it is difficult to under-
stand the latest move. The ostensible reason for
the amalgamation was want of money, but according
to those who were against amalgamation the
requisite money could without much difficulty have
been found. In our estimation the policy of the
National is a wrong one, and they seem to court
disaster even when with all the cards in their hands
they might almost play their own game. Had
they a number of successful local companies and
a good sprinkling of local shareholders, each
small company would have far more interest
locally than when all the wires are pulled
firom Oxford-court. Local politicians would be
somewhat loth to interfere with local interests,
and the Government proposals would receive far
more attention than they will at present. Of course,
it is a great thing to say, practically we are the only
telephone company in existence. Men are so apt to
forget that the controllers of a monopoly cannot well
have competitors, and that when the monopoly
lapses it takes time to bring other workers into the
field. Our advice to the National would long ago
have been to multiply local companies and keep a con-
trolling influence. This, combined with a cheap and
efficient service, would have prevented competition.
REVIEWS.
Continental Bleotrio Light Stations, with Notes of the
Aotnal Praotioe for Distributing Xlectrioity in Towns.
By Killing WORTH Hedges, M.I.C.E. London : E. and F. K.
Spon.
In the early days of aii industry everyone engaged in it
likes to know what everyone else is doing. There is no
fashion, there are no schools. As time goes on there is a
gradual weeding out of systems till a few are left, each of
which is about as good as its neighbour, and only a long,
sometimes a very long, experience can decide which is or
which are the fittest to survive. Around these few systems
fashion rages, schools are founded, and one side holds it
anathema maranatha to disagree with their view. It is so
electrically. In this book the experience gathers around
the two schools — high and low pressui*e. Some 18 stations
illustrative of the former are described, and half as many
again of the latter, showing at any rate that for the time
being wherein the numerical advantage rests. Mr. Hedges
has set himself the task of getting together more or less
lengthy descriptions of continental lighting stations, and, by
the aid of numerous large and clear illustrations, the compiler
is enabled to give his readers a fair idea of the practice
throughout the Continent. The work is divided into three
sections — ^the first dealing with high-pressure stations, the
second with low-pressure, while the third is a miscellanv
giving descriptions, opinions, statistics, and tables. We
imagine such a book as this is an important factor in the
equipment of the engineer who has to design central
stations, for from the numerous diagrams and illustrations
he is able to see the arrangements adopted at a great
variety of stations. In many instances, too, plans are
given, from which the distances and areas lighted can be
known, all which information assists in the planning of
new work. Although a good many figures as to cost are
given, these may be liable to misinterpretation, unless a
good deal of further information special to the district is
known relating to rate of wages, length of working day,
and cost of material. Altogether, then, this book forms a
compendious collection of material which must prove useful
to all engaged in central station work.
THE CRYSTAL PALACE EXHIBITION.
The exhibition at the Crystal Palace can hardly make
any serious claim to be an international exhibition, for
although the galleries include a few exhibits from abroad,
yet the large manufacturers on the Continent are not
exhibiting. Of course, those names that have become
acclimatised in England are conspicuous enough, such as
Siemens, Gulcher, and Kichard Fr^res ; and the same may
be said about American exhibits, where Brush, Thomson-
Houston, and Edison flourish under the flag of their adop-
tion. But one exhibit there is of international interest,
embodying quite a large number of interests of American
manufacturers — that of BIr. W. J. Hammer — in the
Machinery Hall. This important exhibit it is all the more
necessary to notice specially, as while being rather late in
the field it includes one of paramount importance to the
electrical engineering profession at large — namely, the H.
Ward Leonard system of regulating electric motors by
varying separately the currents and pressures in motor the
fields and the armature^ — a system which seems destined to
efiect a radical change in our methods of motor regulation.
Mr. Hammer, it will be remembered, is the enterprising
gentleman, at one time chief engineer to the Edison
Clomj)any in Great Britain and Europe, who organised the
effective display of Edison's inventions at the time of the
(gjcesLt Paris Exposition of 1889. Mr. Hammer has now
an extensive practice of his own, with offices in New
York and the Savoy Hotel, London ; and besides the
Ward Leonard system, he shows, as sole agent in England,
the electric cooking appliances on the Carpenter system,
now fairly well known to the public by the exhibitions in
the Crystal Palace Exhibition itself and elsewhere. Besides
these important interests Mr. Hammer also has the agency
for and exhibits of the following firn^ and companies :
613
THE ELECTRICAL ENGIKEER, JUNE 24, 1892.
First, of the Kies Electric Speciality Company, in the Bies
electric lamp regulating socket, which has already been
described in this journal (p. 249) ; second, the Ward Arc
Itamp Company, whose arc Umps for burning in parallel on
the Pilkington and White meter, one ot the simplest and
cheapest meters possible to conceive, which we described
(p. 486) ; sixth, Mr. J, D. Bishop, who has a paper-insulated
telephone cable, said to be of the lowest self-induction
ordinary circuit are making a great success in America ; | known ; and eeventh, the Weston Electrical lostniment
third, the Telemeter Company, who have electric measur- Company's electrical ammeters and voltmeters, very beauti-
ing and recording instruments for recording almost any fully devised and manufactured specimens of instruments ot
variable at any required distance ; fourth, the Bies and precision. The foregoing make up a sufGcieDtly important
Henderson method of electric riveting (see p. 344) ; fifth, ' list of novel and interesting ezntbits, which we strongly
TflE ESLECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE S4, 189-2.
613
advise every electrical engineer to carefully inspect before
the close of the Exhibition on Saturday, July 2nd.
The Ward Leonard System of Motors.— We have
already given some considerable attention to this system,
but we ought to mention that for those who wish to have
an actual example of the method of connecting the motors
advocated by Mr. H. Ward Leonard, a set of apparatus has
been erected by Mr. Hammer at his stand. This, although
only on a small scale, sufficiently illustrates the mode of
connection, while, as for actual experimental tests, we give
some interesting figures further on. In this specimen set,
three small Crocker-Wheeler motors are connected together
to imitate the arrangement advocated. The supply of
current is obtained from the Exhibition mains to drive one
of the motors. This motor is coupled by a belt to a
second motor driven as generator. Such an arrangement
makes a motor-generator, and in practice would be m one
machine with two armatures in the same field. The
current from this generator drives the motor which is to
do the work desired, the point being to have this motor
work at the highest efficiency at any call upon it — whether
the speed be high or low, whether the power absorbed be
little or much, the electrical efficiency of the whole arrange-
ment is to be high. This effect is achieved, allowing the
transmitted current to go through only the armature of
the motor, the field current being obtained from the main
supply circuit and varied independently.
We will give the explanation in Mr. Leonard's own
words :
In the operation of electric motors there are three
principal factors to be considered — the speed, the torque,
and the efficiency. Under any variations in power the
efficiency should remain as nearly constant as possible.
For one class of work it is desirable to keep the speed con-
stant when the torque varies. For a second class of work
it is desirable to keep the torque constant at one particular
amount when the speed varies. For a third class it is de-
sirable to operate at many different speeds, and yet auto-
matically at any particular speed desired regardless of the
torque. For a fourth class it is desirable to operate at many
different torques and yet automatically at any desired
torque regardless of the speed ; and for a fifth kind it is
desirable to keep the amount of power supplied constant,
regardless of a change in torque — that is, so that if the
torque changes by the requirements of practice, the speed
would automatically change so that the power consumed
would remain constant.
The shunt wound motor, operating on a constant poten-
tial circuit, is well adapted to the first class of work men-
tioned, where only one fixed speed is desired, practically
regardless of the torque and with a practically constant
efficiency.
The second class of work mentioned, having one
particular constant torque and a speed variable at will,
cannot be performed by existing electric motors without
great sacrifice of efficiency. In this class of work we find
hoists lifting a constant weight, certain printing presses,
swing bridges, stamp mills, pumps, etc. — that is, such work
as requires that we should start up from dead rest with full
torque and run at any desired speed with the same torque
and with perfect efficiency.
The third and fourth classes of work are more common
than would at first appear evident, but since neither the
steam engine nor the watorwheel can be operated under
conditions where both speed and torque will vary, and
where the speed or torque can be held automatically fixed
at any point desired, regardless of variation of the pther,
we do not find work of this kind existing in such shape as
to be operated by an electric motor instead of some other
power. Nor has the electric motor been available for such
duty heretofore. A familiar instance of the third kind of
work is met with in the printing of fabrics, where the
presses have a large number of rolls upon which the torque
depends, and the speed of the presses must be varied as
desired, and yet at any given speed must hold that speed
constantly, regardless of the number of rolls set down ;
that is, regardless of the torque. Similarly, lathes, drill
presses, wood- working machinery, etc., belong to this class.
Certain variations in the speed are possible by existing
methods, by the use of cone pulleys and equivalent devices.
but no motor of any kind has heretofore existed which,
directly applied, would conform to the requirements of
this kind of work.
The fourth kind of work has, as a familiar example, the
passenger elevator, where the weight, and, consequently,
the torque, is variable, and where at any torque the speed
should be controllable at will, with constant efficiency.
Another example is the pumping of water against a variable
pressure, with the speed controllable at will and indepen-
dend of the pressure. This result is not obtained directly
by any motor to-day.
The fifth class of work, where the speed is automatically
varied to keep the power consumed constant, no matter
how the torque varies, is not met with in practice as far as
I know, yet oftentimes we may have a constant source of
power from which we wish to get a torque variable to the
requirements of a variable load and do not care particularly
about the speed. An electric street railway operated by
water power is a familiar example of this class of work.
It will be seen from the above that of the five principal
classes of work there is only one — namely, constant speed
and variable torque — which we can take care of with
reasonable efficiency and from our existing supply circuits.
It is well known that when a street car is first started
and b scarcely in motion the actual power represented by
such motion is almost nothing, for, although the pounds
pull is large, the feet per minute is extremely small;
consequently, the power required must be exceedingly
small. What do we find in practice? We find that in
order to develop a power of but a fraction of a horse-
power we must, on account of the slow speed demanded,
develop about 30 h.p., and then waste about 98 per cent,
of this horse-power in order to utilise the remaining 2 per
cent, in the way it is desired. The efficiency of the modem
electric street car is not probably more than 2 per cent,
when just starting from dead rest and moving at the rate
of 1ft. per second.
when we come to investigate this, we find that the
explanation is that in order to get the necessary large
torque with freedom from excessive sparking, we must
have a very large current in a nearly constant field ; and
since our E.M.F. is constant, we must use an amount of
power which will vary almost directly with the torque,
and will be regardless of the speed. Or, in other words,
the efficiency of the motor will vary directly as the speed
with an efficiency of perhaps 80 per cent, at full speed.
As a result of my investigation of this subject I have
concluded that the operation of electric motors should
conform to what apparently is a new law and which may
be stated as follows : Vary the voltage as the speed desired ;
vary the amperes as the torque required.
In other words, make the speed dependent upon the
voltage only and independent of the current, and make the
torque dependent upon the current only, and independent of
the voltage. Since the product of the speed and torque
represents the work being done, and the product of the
volts and amperes represents the power supplied, it is
evident that if we can operate in conformitv to this law,
we shall have a constant efficiency under all conditions,
disregarding, of course, the small fixed losses in the field
and armature.
One way in which this law can be followed is to supply
the field of the motor from one source of electric energy
and supply the armature from another source, the KM.F.
of which can be varied. It will be noticed that when the
speed is fixed, a fixed voltage will be necessary in order
to conform to this law, and the shunt motor is foimd to
conform perfectly to the law ; but it is the only motor I
know of which does conform to the law which seems to be
generally applicable.
A simple case will be the operation of a printing press
for printing fabrics. Suppose the press has 10 rolls —
that is, the torque will vary from 1 to 10 in amount.
Suppose also that it must be run at any spded from that
represented by 1 to that represented by 20, and at any
speed it must hold the speed constantly, and this whether
one or ten or any intermediate number of rolls be brought
into use. Also that the efficiency must be independent of
the speed or torque. In order to conform to this law in a
simple way, we will instal a generator and a motor of the
614
TflE SLEOTftlOAL IlKGll^BR, JUNE 24, 1892.
same size, and connect their armatures by two conductors.
We will supply their fields from a small separate exciter
in the shape of a shunt-wound dynamo, in the circuit
leading to the field of the generator we will place
a rheostat. If now we drive our generator at a con-
stant speed, the KM.F. it will produce will depend
upon its field, which in turn will depend upon the
amount of resistance in the rheostat in its field circuits.
The strength of the motor field is constant, being supplied
by the constant E.M.F. exciter. Now, evidently the speed
of the motor will depend solely upon the E.M.F. supplied
to its brushes, and this can be carried from 0 to the maxi-
mum limit by varying the rheostat, which wiU preferably
be placed beside the motor itself. The current will auto-
matically vary in proportion to the torque, the speed will
vary directly as the voltage, and the efficiency will be
constant and independent of the speed or torque.
If we wish to operate an elevator from central station
conductors of constant E.M.F., we supply a shunt-wound
motor mechanically connected directly with a generator,
whose armature is connected to the armature of the elevator
motor. The field of the generator is supplied from the
central station conductors, but a loop goes up to the
elevator car, where a rheostat and reversing switch is
placed, so that the E.M.F. of the generator can be varied and
reversed at will The field of the elevator motor is excited
from the line constantly.
It will be evident that we can control the elevator per-
fectly from the car and run in either direction, at any
desired speed, and with perfect efficiency. It is worthy of
notice that the non-sparking point is entirely independent
have no current ; hence the ampere-meter needle will be oo
the lower contact, which will gradually throw out resist-
ance, and cause the generator to generate an KM.F. The
current will increase, and will finally cause the needle to
leave the lower contact. The full torque is now being
developed, and the bridge, if the motor be of proper size,
will start to move. As it does so, the counter KMJ*. of
the motor will tend to reduce the current, but this will
cause the needle to again make the lower contact and
raise the E.M.F. and speed, and hold the current and
torque constant.
Thus, the bridge will start from rest with a minimum of
power but full torque, and will gradually accelerate in
speed until the full E.M.F. and speed of the motor is
reached. To vary the speed by hand we merely move the
ampere-meter needle to make either contact desired. In
case the bridge should meet an obstruction which would
slow it down, the amperes would not increase, but would
remain constant, as the volts would be immediately and
automatically reduced to just that amount necesssu-y to
keep the amperes constant With this arrangement it will
be practically impossible to overload the motor armature.
Another good application of this method of keeping the
torque constant wiU be in any case where a tool is cutting
certain material which may vary in hardness or when the
feed may vary. If the torque be kept constant it will be
impossible to break the cutting tool or injure the apparatus.
An electric coal-cutter is a case in point. The cutter may
be advancing through slate, fireclay, or coal, and occasionally
it will meet a layer of hard-iron pyrites, known in the
mines as " sulphur." This may stop the cutter-bar entirely,
The Ward-Leonwd Syitem of Ckinnectlog Motors.
of the speed, and that for any particular weight the non-
sparking point is absolutely fixed and independent of the
power used. Also that, since the maximum weight alone
determines the maximum amperes, it will be impossible to
send more than the normal full load in amperes through
the armature ; consequently the liability of burning out of
armatures is reduced to a minimum. The elevator in
coming down generates current to assist the central station,
and since the efficiency is practically constant under all
conditions, and since as many foot-pounds of work are done
by the elevator in descending as it requires in ascending,
the consumer will in reality pay only for the energy wasted
in charging the fields, in heating the armatures, and that
represented by the friction of the gearing, which will be
the least possible. The starting up of the elevator requires
a minimum of power, and hence does not subject the
central station to large sudden fluctuations of load.
Suppose we want to operate a swing bridge by an electric
motor. We connect as in the case of a printing press, but
instead of a hand field rheostat we use an automatic field
rheostat, such as is used by the Edison Company. We
place an ampere-meter in the armature circuit of our motor,
and when the ampere-meter needle indicates full load it
touches a contact leading to the relay magnets of the auto-
matic rheostat, which causes it to throw in resistance in
the field circuit of the generator and reduces its KM.F.
Similarly, just below full load, the ampere-meter needle
makes contact, closing a circuit in the automatic rheostat
so as to throw out resistance and raise the KM.F. of the
generator.
To start up the bridge we insert all of our resistance in
the field of the generator and have, let us say, no volts.
Now we Close the main- line switch to the motor ; we will
and with an ordinary, or series or shunt motor, the result
would probably be a burnt-out armature. With the system
I have described, the current would be constant in any
event, and the cutter would automatically go faster in soft
material and slower in hard material
In pumping by an electric motor operated on this system,
the head alone determines the torque, and hence the current
Consequently, for any lift, the non-sparking point will be
fixed, and the number of strokes per minute can be con-
trollcKi at will from 0 up to the maximum by varying the
volts.
For operating an electric railway we will place a shunt-
wound motor on the car, and directly driven by this motor
will be a special generator, which will be connected to the
electric motor below the car. It is evident that the
generator and working motor armatures may be wound for
any voltage desired — say, 20 volts — which will make the
problem of insulating the street-car motor an extremely
simple one. If desirable, we can supply several cars of a
compion train from one special generator on the forward
car. With this outfit we will be able to take any car up
any practicable grade or around any curve with no more
power than is required to move the car on a level, and
always consume the same power, regardless of weight,
grades, or curves. That is, the automatic increase of
current, to take care of any increased torque, will be com-
pensated for by a corresponding decrease in the volts and
speed. We may start a car up on any grade or curve with
but a small fraction of the power required for normal speed
on a level.
I wish to call attention to a very important development
loading out from this — namely, that we will be able to use
alternating currents for operating our street cars, for it is
TSE fiLECTRiCAL ENGINEER, JUNfi 24, 189^.
616
well kn^wn that'the ordinary alternating-current generators
will operate perfectly as motors, if the speed and torque
be kept constant. Since by this system we can, from a
constant torque and speed, get any other torque and,
automatically, a corresponding speed, we shall be able to
ran street cars perfectly by alternating currents. This,
again, will enable us to dispense with trolleys, conduits,
storage batteries, etc. We will place between our tracks,
in manholes, converters whose primary pressure can be
anything required for proper economy and whose secondary
will be, say, 15 volts. This secondary circuit will connect
directly with the rails. The road will be divided in sections,
each a few hundred feet long, and each section will be
supplied by its own converter.
This system also lends itself very readily to the trans-
mission of power. We may transmit by alternating
currents, and the alternating-current motor running at a
constant speed and at a nearly constant torque will drive
special generators to operate hoists, pumps, locomotives,
etc., at the varying torques and speeds demanded by prac-
tice, and yet without subjecting the alternating-current
motor to a sudden or wide fluctuation in its torque and
without any necessity of varying its speed. With this
system of operating electric motors there seems to be
no work met with in practice which cannot be perfectly
performed.
On first consideration, the additional apparatus neces-
sary would seem to make the system prohibitory in
practice ; but the capacity of the present single motor is
greater than the combined capacity of the apparatus this
system would require, and the capacity of the prime motor
is very much reduced.
In order to reduce the first cost to a minimum, and yet
secure the advantages of difierent automatic speeds and
high efficiency, I have devised two modifications of the
arrangement described above. The first is adapted to
power in which a smooth, efficient acceleration of a load
trom rest is required, as in the case of passenger locomo-
tives and elevators. The second case is where various
automatic speeds are desired, but no especial importance
attaches to the starting of the load from rest, as is the case
in machinery in general.
For the first case we have the trolley system of electric
street cars as the most important. Let us suppose we
have two motors of 15 h.p. each for the car. We find
that for full speed upon a level we require about 15 amperes
at 500 volts. Upon heavy grades we find that about 50
amperes are required and, as before, we have 500 volts.
With this consumption of energy we find that we get a
speed upon the heavy grade which is about one-quarter of
the speed upon a level. In order to operate upon my
system, let us place upon the car a motor-generator, the
motor part of which is wound for 500 volts and 12|
amperes, and the generator part of which is wound for 125
volts and 50 amperes. The fields of the motor and gene-
rator part are distinct, and are wound for 500 volts, as are
the fields of the two propelling motors under the car. All
these fields are supplied from the 500-volt trolley circuit
In the field of the auxiliary generator is placed a rheostat.
Now, suppose the car at rest upon a grade. The motor
generator is running, but the generator has a very weak
eld. Its armature is connected by a controlling switch to
the propeUing motors. We now gradually cut out re-
sistance from the generator field circuit, and finally get
about 20 volts at the brushes of the generator. With this
E.M.F. we get sufficient current to produce 50 amperes
through the armatures of the propelling motors in a
saturated field. This gives us the full torque, and the car
starts at a speed of perhaps half a foot a second. This
speed can be maintained constantly and indefinitely, and
the consumption of energy will be less than 2 h.p. This is
less than three amperes from the trolley line. In practice,
however, the speed will be rapidly but gradually accelerated
until we have 125 volts upon the terminals of the propelling
motors. We will now be running at one-quarter speed and
will be consuming 125 volts and 50 amperes; that is, 6^
kilowatts instead of 25 kilowatts to get the same result
with existing motors. To put it another way, we will not
be using as much energy as is represented by the 500 volts
and 15 amperes necessary for full speed on a level.
The next step on the controlling switch will disconnect
the armatures of the propelling motors from the auxiliary
generator and put the two armatures in series across the
trolley line direct. We will now go at a speed represented
by 250 volts ; that is, one-half full speed. The next step
of our switch will place the two armatures in multiple
across the 500 volts, and the next and last step will place
the 120- volt auxiliary generator in series with the main
central station generators, and give us 625 volts on our
armatures and a correspondingly increased speed. We
will be able to go up a grade of 6 to 8 per cent, at full
speed, with 50 amperes and 500 volts, which, with the
present motors, gives us only about one quarter of that
speed.
Under this arrangement it will be noticed that the only
apparatus which could be called additional is the smidl
motor of 500 volts for the generator part of our motor-
generator, which is useful not only for starting but for full
speed also. In stopping the car we have an electric brake
action delivering back energy to the line at full efficiency,
and not through a rheostat, as at present
If we have a train of, say, three cars, so that we have six
motors, we can start from rest with sufficient smoothness by
placing all six armatures in series, which will give us some-
thing less than one-sixth speed as the first step. Then we
can place three in series with two multiples, wnich gives us
one-third speed. Next, two in series with three mmuples,
which gives us one half speed, and finally all in multiple,
which gives us full speed. Under such conditions, we can
dispense with the small converting plant altogether.
For an elevator requiring, say, 15 h.p. we will put in a
motor-generator of 3 h.p., with which we will control the
starting and stopping and the operation up to one-fifth of
full speed. Then for full speed we will connect direct to
the line and operate without any conversion of energy.
For power in which smoothness of motion in starting and
stopping is not essential I have devised a new system of
distribution as follows : Three dynamos, all having the
same current capacity, and having voltages of 62^, 125, and
250 respectively, are placed in series and from conductors
led off in multiple one from each terminal of the machines.
These conductors will have potentials which can be repre-
sented by 0, 62|, 187|, and 437^. Let us now take a
shunt-wound motor, and disconnecting the field from the
armature circuit, excite the field from the outside two of
the four conductors — that is, by an E.M.F. of 437^ volts.
By connecting the armature terminals to the four conauctors
in >'arious ways, we shall be able to operate in either direc-
tion at six difiisrent automatic speeds represented by the
following voltages : 62^, 125, 187^, 250, 275, 437^. By
varying the field strength of the motor we can, if required,
get any intermediate speed.
In many cases two dynamos will answer, one of, say,
110 volts already in use for incandescent lighting, and a
second of, say, 30 volts. With this arrangement we could
run in either direction and with automatic speeds repre-
sented by 30, 110, and 140.
With the four-wire six-voltage system of distribution in
a shop we can take out all countershafting, belting, pulleys
and gears, if desired, and place a motor upon every tool,
which we can operate in either direction at any automatic
speed desired. Lathes, planers, and all tools can be per-
fectly operated, and by getting rid of all countershafts and
belts we can introduce the greatest of modern tools, the
travelling crane, which we will also operate from our
general system. We can also readily operate ventilating
fans, hoists, elevators, and factory tramways from the
system.
The addition of one dynamo and one new conductor to
any existing three-wire system will probably give all the
flexibility required to meet practical conditions of varying
speeds. For the alternating system a synchronous motor
driving our three continuous-current generators will give
us the four-wire system in any distant factory or town.
For 500-volt street railway circuits a small motor-generator
plant for the slow speeds and a direct connection for full
speeds will give us perfect results. For storage battery
work we have the most perfect condition, as we can get
any E.M.F. desired, with a corresponding speed wUle
keeping the field separately excited.
616
TSE ELECTRICAL ENGINEElR, JUNE 24, 1892.
Now that we have the rotary field at command, I thiak
I may safely assert that the time is not far distant when
wo shall have transformers which will, without motion,
convert an alternating current in the primary into a con-
tinuous in the secondary ; and this seems to me to be the ideal
system of the future — that is, one in which energy will be
transmitted by alternating currents of constant E.M.F.
transformed, without motion, into continuous currents for
use at the translating devices and used where motors are
concerned, in conformity with the law of efficiency for
motors : Vary the voltage as the speed desired ; vary the
amperes as the torque required.
A very broad patent has been granted to Mr. H. Ward
Leonard in America, No. 463,802, dated November 24,
1891, with 26 claims. It will suffice to quote a few of the
claims :
1. The method of operating [and regulating an electric
motor, consisting in maintaining the strength of its field
magnet and the position of its commutator brushes constant
and altering its speed by varying the E.M.F. supplied to
its armature.
5. The method of performing work by the use of electric
energy, which consists in varying the E.M.F. in proportion
to the " foot " element of the foot-pounds per second of the
power required and varying the current in proportion to
the "pounds '' element.
8. The combination of an electro-dynamic motor, a source
of supply for its armature, a separate constant source of
supply for its field magnet, and means for varying the
potential of the armature-supplying source, located at the
point of work performed.
12. The combination, with a wheeled vehicle, of an
electric motor mounted thereon to propel the same, said
motor having its armature and field magnet energised by
separate circuits, and means on the vehicle for varying the
E.M.F. of the energy supplied to the armature of said
motor.
24. The combination of a source of alternating current of
high tension, means for converting such current into a con-
•tinuous current of lower tension, and a motor having its
armature supplied by such continuous current, and its
field magnet separately excited.
26. The method of transforming the energy of a prime
motor at any speed into proi^elling energy at any desired
speed, which consists in operating an electrical generator
by said prime motor, supplying the armature of an electric
motor running in a constant field from said generator, and
varying the E.M.F. of said generator to vary the speed of
said electric motor.
It will be interesting to give some idea of the status in
America of the applications of Mr. Ward Leonard's method
of motor control, and the following account of its progress
will prove, better than anything else that can be said,
what prospects are likely to lie before it in this country.
Mr. Leonard has recently executed licenses with Messrs.
William Sellers and Co., who are one of the largest
machine houses in the States, and who build travelling
cranes and various other kinds of heavy machinery. They
are at present equipping a 50-ton crane with the system,
which is now probably in operation. They have in their
own works a 5-h.p. jib crane operated on this method,
and have avowed themselves much gratified with its per-
formance. They are also making application of the method
to the operation of a very large drilling machine, which
must be run at various speeds and in either direction. This
large machine at present requires a considerable number of
gears, and a great deal of controlling mechanism, all of
which is to bo removed and replaced by a motor on the
Leonard system, which will enable them to operate at any
speed desired, automatically under various loads, and in
either direction. The motor for this crane is 5 h.p., and
the particular point to notice is that the entire control will
bo by one lever only upon the tool itself. They also
expect to equip a very large lathe which is used for marine
work. The lathe is an extremely large one, and the man
in charge rides along on the carriage. The cone pulleys
and gearing at present in use occupy a very large amount
of space, the largest cone being about 7ft. in diameter and
the nest of cone pulleys being 7ft. long. They intend
to run this lathe by a motor controlled on the Leonard
method, and one of the greatest conveniences will be due
to the fact that the control can be arranged upon the tool
carriage and handled by the man there without the necessity
of his moving, which is regarded as an important point, as
he will be at the point of work, and will control the move-
ments of the machine at that point itself. This firm of
Sellers and Co. intend to use the Leonard method upon all
cranes they build hereafter, and they state their complete
satisfaction with the results they have obtained in practice.
Going to quite another class of work a license has been
given to the Bryau-Enholm Company, who sell a primary
battery and do a large business in the supply of motors
for dental drills and similar apparatus, and they use the
Leonard regulation for varying the speed or keeping the
speed constant under varying torque.
With reference to elevators and hoists — a field where the
system is peculiarly applicable — licenses have been arranged
with the Otis, Crane, Stokes-Parrish, Whittier and Hale
Elevator Companies. These five companies together do
about 80 or 90 per cent, of the entire elevator business of
America, and it is a significant fact that all of them have
taken a license under the Leonard patents acting jointly
for the purpose. They have secured an exclusive license.
The Otis Company in New York are making the first move
in introducing the apparatus, and they have recently closed
contracts for lifts for private residences — one for Mr. John
Inman, in Fifth-avenue, New York, and the other for Mr.
Pratt, of Brooklyn. In both these cases the elevators will
be so arranged as to make it possible to control them from
the car and from the outside oy a switch at each floor. The
first in operation was that of Mr. Pratt at Brooklyn. The
Otis Company, have of course, thoroughly tested the
elevator in their own works, and have found the results
very satisfactory.
The case of the Yale and Towne Manufacturing Company
is a typical one. This company have a very large machine
works at Stamford, Connecticut, making a speciality of
cranes, besides other heavy work. They were, as most
people are, at first prejudiced against the method by the
apparent complication of the apparatus and the fact that
when running from a constant potential source, such as a
central station, it is necessary to introduce a motor-gene-
rator. After explanations, they sent to New York
to investigate the working of the motor, both on
a small scale in Mr. Leonard's office, and also in an
elevator, which had been running since October last in the
station of the Brooklyn Edison Company. This elevator
has given perfect satisfaction since the day of starting, and
when the chief engineer of the Yale and Towne Company
went with Mr. Leonard to see how the motor was working
they found that three weeks before work had been started
on an artesian well in the basement, and that the rubbish
and material from digging the well had been thrown in
front of the door leading to the motor-chamber. The
superintendent, in taking them down, remarked that he
had not seen the motor for some months, but he knew it
was running all right from the action of the elevator itself.
The condition of affairs showed that the motor had not
been attended to for some time, as it had not been possiUo
to open the door. The motor works with self-oiling
bearings and requires no attention for long periods of time.
The engineer of Yale and Towne was extremely pleased
with the action of the motor, and went back to tiie wcurks
having undertaken to close a license. The Morgan Engi-
neering Works, of Alliance, Ohio, have also fitted a 150-toii
crane at the Watervliet Arsenal, and if successful they will
take a license for future cranes.
A contract has recently been secured for ventilating a
very large hotel in New York — " New Netherlands," one
of the new Astor hotels. In this hotel will be fixed a con
siderable number of fans, the largest of which will be 72iD.
diameter. The order was given to Mr. Leonard on the
strength of his ability to vary the speed of the fans at will
with exactitude.
With reference to electric railway work, the most ioF
portant of all its applications, it is interesting to learn
that one of the largest concerns in New York who are oon-
structing electric railways is the Jarvis and Conklin Trosfc
and Mortgage Company. They have built very extensivi
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 24, 1892.
617
lines io Ogden (Utah), Ranaaa City, Auguata, aad other
places. This company are now about to establish a double-
track road of 10 miles, running from Baltimore to an
adjoining suburb, and they expect to run a service of trains
at 30 miles an hour. The entire cost will be nearly
X180,000. Their chief engineer, Mr. Abbott, has investi-
gated the Leonard method, and is so thoroughly we!l
pleased with its poasibilities for application to railway
traction that he has requested a tender, not only on
the existiug specification for ordinary methods, but
also on the Leonard system. He intends to test the
system on a 3fift. car at Kansas City, which is
now equipped with two 30-h.p. motors. This same
engineer wishes to apply the method to the control of the
gates of waterwheels which are supplying power for street
railways. At Augusta he has a railway run thus, and it
is found extremely difficult to regulate the speed in this
plant. It seems that it is necessary to have three men all
night and day to do nothing but regulate the wheels, each
man taking a shift of eielit hours. As can be readily
understood — the application of a motor regulated under the
Leonard system, with whose direction of rotation will reverse
as required, and governed by the pressure from the line
itaelf, actuating a relay to run a small motor, which in turn
will move the controlling rheostat — the speed can be main-
tained exactly at such a point as shall give proper pressure
on the line. A great feature in the motor run on this
method is that the torque is full and strong, even at the
■lowest revolution, so that the least change of pressure on
the line immediately places in operation a motor at full
torque to move the gates and restore the pressure to the
required point,
A license is also being arranged with the Edison
Company ; this is a non-exclusive license, not being
for propulsion, elevators, or maiine work, but limiting
to the use in factoriee and the operation of machines, but
not limited in the case of mining a^lications. Mr. W. S.
Andrews, technical assistant to Mr. Kruesi, of the Schenec-
tady Works of the Edison Company, has been investigating
the Leonard system, and is enthusiastic as to its possibilities.
We give below the result of a series of testa made with
a 10-h.p. motor regulated in the way described by Mr.
Leonard. They are not intended as accurate scientific
teste upon the system, but simply as sufficient to give data
to judge as to the efficiency of the method.
EXPERIUENTS WITH THE WaUD LEONARD SYSTEM OF
Varying the Speed of an Electric Motor.
In this system the fields of the motor are excited by a
carrent from a different generator from that which supplies
thearmature current, and the pressureoftfaearmature current
ifl varied to produce any motor speed that may be required.
The pressure of the armature current is varied in two ways:
(a) By exciting the generator fields with a current from an
outside source and varying the pressure of the output by
uaing a rheostat in series with the lield. The pressure of
the armature current and the speed of the motor vary with
the pressure of the generator field current, (i) By con-
necting a number of generators of different potentials in
series and carrying conductors from the terminals of each.
In this way any required number of currents may be ob-
tained having different pressures. The motor fields are
excited from an outside source, and should an intermediate
speed be required other than those given by the different
" steps," it may be obtained by varying the pressure of the
motor field current. To reverse the direction of rotation
ot the motor, the polarity of the armature current is
changed in (a) by reversing the fields of the generator ; in
(6) by reversing the motor armature current directly by
some suitable switch arrangement.
A 10-h.p. Sprague motor was used throughout the
experiments, the load being applied and measured by means
of a Prony brake. The field currents were supplied by a
Na 32 Edison generator — the motor armature current by a
No. 16 Edison generator. The first experiments were con-
ducted by Mr. Leonard — System A — who used in series
with the fields of the No. 16 generator a reversing rheostat
containing resistance up to 2,500 ohms. Carbon brushes
were used, those on the motor being set for right-hand i
rotation. The motor was designed for a 230-volt current, |
and under full load required 40 amperes of current, The
motor was first run under half load.
Full speed left band
FuU apoed rl^ht liaad .
Slow flpead right hand ..
Very slow BpMd Idt ban
Slow speed no load
Full B peed no load
0 ampereB 24C volts
Keversing quickly at full speed, the current rose to 40
amperes, hut fell back at once to 20 amperes, the voltage
dropping gradually to 0, and then gradually rising to 245
volts.
A 42in. flywheel was put on the brake shaft, rim Tin.
face and 4in. thick, weight of rim about 9001b. To bring
the motor thus loaded to dead stop from full speed
required 14 seconds; to reach full speed again, 16 seconds;
to reverse from full speed to full speed, 23 seconds.
At full load 40 ravolutiona of motor 25 volts 10 amperee.
>. 15 „ „ 25 „ 40
No sparking of brushes was noticed during the above
experiments.
In starting the motor under full load it was found that
the full armature current might be instantly thrown on,
up to a pressure of 90 volts, without dangerous sparking
of motor brushes. At this pressure, however, the strength
of the current required to start the motor ran up to con-
siderably over 100 amperes, remaining there for about two
seconds and then rapidly dropping to 40 amperes.
During the experiments, the motor fields were constantly
excited by a current of 1^ amperes, 335 volte difference of
potential.
After Mr. Leonard's experiments a series of tests were
made to determine the efficiency of the motor at various
speeds. The aame apparatus were used with the excep-
tion of the reversing rheosuit, which was replaced by a
rheostat of six 16-c.p. incandescent tamps, 110 volts 0'5
ampere, in series with the regular resistance box of the
generator. The lamps were arranged in series in such a
way that any one or all of them might be cut out, giving a
field resistance varying by steps of from 0 to about 1,400
ohms. The length of the Prony brake lever was 4ft 6in.,
diameter of brake pulley 46in., diameter of motor pulley
9in. Motor field current constant at 1^ amperes, 240
volts, giving a constant loss in the Gelds of 300 watts, or
13,27" foot-pounds per minute. The first tests were under
full load ;
Current.
RevB. of
motor per
minute.
Weight
bal. at end
ot lever.
Total ele
ft. -lbs. pet
Received
at brake.
ft.-lba. per
43,348
62,203
73,478
98,194
101,812
377.727
402,5S4
420,250
Net loss.
ft. -lbs.
per min.
15,417
40.535
64,710
65,035
To show the effect of variable pressure in motor fields :
Motor flelde. Armature Revs, of mob
VolUi. Ampa. Yolta. per min.
190
312
To show change of motor speed by System B. — A120-volt
Edison generator was connected in series with a 240-voIt
Edison generator. The pressure of current from 240-volt
machine was varied by throwing a resistance in its field
circuit. The motor fields were separately excited with 240-
Tolt current :
122
700,
276 1,600 1 Resistance in 240-volt
102 580r tcenerator field.
180 B20
266 1.500^
300 2,2001 Reeistanceont of 240-
292 2,000/ volt geoerator field.
618
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEKR, JUNE 24, 1892.
To show the change of motor speed as the load is varied,
motor field current 210 voite :
Weight baUooed. Revs, of motor
22i
Tbe Carpenter Eleotrlc Heating Syatam.— That
tbe question of electric cooking has this year agaumed such an
important position in this country is distinctly due tu the
efforts of the Carpenter Electric Heating Company, which
Mr. Hammer represents in this country. This company
hare works at St. Paul, Minnesota, and have worked out,
patented, and constructed a large number of electric heat-
ing appliances, which are now being shown at the Crystal
Palace. In the Carpenter system a resistance wiie is
embedded in solid enamel placed on the suriace of a metal
plate, which can be thus heated and uaed in a large
variety of ways. It is not absolutely necessary to have
enamel, as Mr. Carpenter's claim is for the " combination
with the plate to be heated, and the resistance of a coating
of adhesive enamel, or its equivalent, for securing the
resistance to, but insulating from, the said plate." Asbestos,
earthenware, clay, or any other material might be used,
but Mr. Carpenter particularly uses a special enamel having
a coefficient of expansion substantially the same as bot£
plates to be heated and the resistance itself, so as to
avoid unequal expansion. Mr. Hammer exhibits a
complete collection of the Carpenter heaters, consisting
of electric tea kettles, frying pans, pancake pans,
saucepans, curling tongs, foot - warmers, sadirons,
soldering irons, hat ironers, warming pans, and electric
house stoves. The system is further applicable in a very
interesting and important way to ordinary electric resist-
ancea, sucn as for tramcara and arc lamps ; the ordinary
wire resistances are somewhat delicate, but these enamel
plate resistances are solid and compact, and can be thrown
down or trodden upon without breakage. Further, one of
the great losses in tramway work is the loss in resistances,
whi^ by these plates may be utilised in warmers.
At the Cryat^ Palace we have had the pleasure of taking
a cup of tea for which the water had been boiled by
electricity, and, further, had our hat ironed beautifully
bv an old professional hand, specially engaged by Mr.
Hammer, at the Exhibition. His attendants have also
cooked chops, boiled eggs, and made pancakes, which have
been distributed free of charge to the public.
Weston Xlectrlcal IngtmmentB. — Mr. Hammer
has, at the FaLice, specimens of the Weaton electrical instru-
ments, the very set, in fact, that were used by the Technical
Committee at the Frankfort Exhibition. These instruments
are of a very high degree of finish and accuracy, and they
are being used very widely in the Statea. Although the
various electric lighting companies of America have
their own type of measuring instruments, we believe that
the princknl large companies, such as the Thomson-
Houston, Westinghouse, and Edison Companies, are all
using the Weston instruments. Mr. Weston is now getting
out new types of his inatrumente, which be considers will
be far superior even to the present form. He preposes
to introduce three separate classes of measuring instru-
ments for both alternate and continuous currents ; the first
will be a high-class instrument for ecientific research work
in laboratories ; the second class, intended for central station
and general expert work ; and the third, a cheaper class
for rougher testing work, though all will be of high-class
workmanship with inbirchat^eable parts. All scales in the
Weston ammeters and voltmeters are separately calibrated
for each instrument — a very important point, and one some-
times completely ignored by many instrument makers, who
often print a scale and attempt to regulate the instrument
to the scale. The Weston measuring inatrumants have a
reputation of a very high rank, not only in America, but
in Qreat Britain and on the Continent as well.
Bishop Tolejthone Cable. — ^This is a special paper
aad oil in8Ulat«d cable. The use of paper insulation in
connection with telephone and electric light cables is not
new, nor the application of overlapping spirals ; yet by a
different arrangement of these, Mr. J. D. Bishop pro-
duces a vastly superior result Mr. Bishop, who has
bad extensive experience both in the construction of
cables of various character, and in machinery for manu-
facturing the same, has found that, when the spirals are
wrapped in an open spiral, the air spaces, filled with semi
liquid insulation, lower the electrostatic capacity in ui
extraordinary degree — a feature specially oseful for tde-
phone cables.
PROP. AYRTON AND MATHER'S D'ARSONVAL
GALVANOMETER.
The general convenience of the class of -reflecung galva-
nometers in which a suspended coil moves in tJie field of a
permanent magnet, proposed by Maxwell, but usually
known by the name of DArsonval, has brought them into
extensive uae in the course of the last five years. But, as
in the case of many other apparently simple instruments,
it is only by paying great attention to details that perfec-
tion can be attained. In the instruments under con-
sideration, the length, breadth, and form of cross-aection of
the coil have important influences on the result, as also
have the manner and material of Uie Buspension of the coiL
ral QilntoomMar.
These points have been carefully studied by Prof. Ayrton
and Mr. Mather, both mathematically and experimentally,
and their resulta have led to the designing of the instru-
ment shown and described by them at the last meeting of
the Physical Society, and illustrated herewith.
The permanent magnet, of circular form, with a narrow
gap between its poles, rests directly on the base, and the
plate which holds it in place also carriea a circular level by
means of which the instrument may be rapidly set npi
The narrow coil, which has a cross-section in the form of
two circles having a common tangent at right angles to the
mirror, is enclosed in a silver tube. The shape of the coil
was arrived at from theoretical considerations by Mr.
Mather {Proc. Phya. Soc., vol. x., page 376), as giving the
greatest deflecting moment per unit moment of inertia.
In this respect the coil is twice as efficient as the oldw
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 24, 1892.
619
form. Tbe silver tube enables tbe coil to be suepended
without straining it, and serves the double purpose of
damping tbe motions of the coil by the Foucault currents
-which pass up and down it when in motion, and of pro-
tecting the coil 80 as to enable it to be clamped without
damage. The coil-tube is hun^ in an outer tube of brass
by means of a flat strip of phosphor bronze, and the
current is taken out of the coil through an insulated pin in
the silver tube by a spiral of flat phosphor bronze, the
lower end of which is connected to a contact screw in the
outer brass tube. This mode of sus)>ension ensures the
centre of gravity of the coil being always directly under
the point of suspension, and obviates the sudden tilting
which almost always occurred in the older iastruments at
some position of the coil. The use of phosphor bronze
gives us a very elastic suspension, and the flat form pro-
vides tensile strength and radiating surface with small
torsional rigidity.
Tbe mirror is attached to the coil-tube by means of a
light, three-armed metal clip, and moves in a mirror-box
provided with an aperture, closed by a sliding glass plate.
To clamp the coil and enable the instrument to be carried
about, a plug attached to a flat spring presses on the coil-
tube through a hole in the outer tube. When the instru-
ment is in use the plug is drawn out and slides down a
slot in the spring. This is a great improvement on the o!d
form, in which, after letting down the coil and thus altering
the adjustments, the coil was usually wedged in place with
bits of paper.
The outer tube, with its mirror-box and adjusting head,
fits a socket between the poles of the jiermanent magnet,
and the act of sliding it in place makes the connections
Thus several coils may be kept ready sus|>ended of various
resistances, and any one slipped in place in a few seconds.
Thus the advantages of portability, dead bealnesa, quick
ness, and sensibility are combined. As regard sensitiveness,
the improvement over the old form is apparent, being, for
the same resistance and period, as great as that of a
Thomson reflecting galvanometer.
The instruments are being made by Mr. Paul, of 44,
Hatton-garden, E.G.
COMPANIES' MEETINGS.
WESTERN COUNTIES AND SOUTH WALES TELEPHONE
COMPANY, LIMITED.
An extraonlinsry p;ensral meeting of tbe Western CotinCies
and South WalsB TeiegjIionQ Company, Limited, was held on
Tueeday afternoon, for the imrjiose at aet'oeing to the amalgama-
tioti of the Company with the National Telephone Company. Mr.
-Charles Naah presided over a large attendance.
Tho Chklrman moved the adoption of a resolution approving of
the provisional agreement entered into for tho tranafai' of the
Company to the ifttional Telophone Company, and, in doing bo,
said five of the six English telephone companies had been amalgn-
nutted, aud he thought it would be a very undesirable tiling that
their Company— the Biith— should iitund alto^otlioc aloof. One
Bpecial reason of not standing aloof was the matter of treating
with tha PoBt Office authorities. They were iirobably on tbe eve
of a revolution in telephone work, and It would be very desirable
to have tbe advantage of a united front. The Directors bad mode
the beat Mrms they could with tho National Telephone Com-
pany, and they thongbt tbe aharebolder* would be riffht in con-
nnning the provisional arrangement that had bean made. Under
the agreement the shareholders would receive a dividend of
£1. Kls. 4i. percent, on their shares: that waa more than they
liod received up to the present time, and it was certainly more
than tbey could expect to earn if arrangements were made to go
on independently.
Mr. K«u-k WhltwUl seconded the motion.
Mi. Oaorss WUta said at the last meeting tbe only ap|iarently
Slausible excuse put forward for selling the undertaking Ui the
ational Telephone Company was want of funds. A protest
aeainst the sale was made by members of the Bristol Stock
Sichango. A letter, dated .luno 8th. signed by the secre-
tary to tho C/ompany (Mr. H. F. Lewis), was addressod to tbe
memorialists through his [Mr. White's) firm, in which it was
Btat«d that if the signatories would give a Arm offer to raise a sum
of £100,(XM) upon second preference shares at such a rate of
interest as would not exceed the earning power of the Company,
the Uirectors would submit the proposal to the National Telephone
Company, and suggest that the latter should give to tlie Western
Company an option ol either aocepting the terms of amalgamation
or of raising additional capital (or the '' ' ' ' '' '
C'Ompany as a separate undertaking. He replied in a letMr,
in which he said one of the first considerations of the arrange-
ment would be a reconstitution of tbe Board of Directors, and if
the Directors nould approach the subject on this basis a
committee would be formed by members of the exchange to
formulate a scheme for submission to the ahareholders. The
Directors, instead of accepting this offer, said if they were going
to sell to tbe National Company they must settle tiuickly, and
immediately got out the notice for that meeting. He did not
think that was a pro|ier way of treating this question, and it was
not creditable to Directors representing Bristol shareholders.
Seeing that they were so far right in regard to their capital
requiremonta, there was no necessity to hand themselves
bodily over to the National Company, They should have
taken time and have been prepared to discuss tbe matter
with tho Stock Exchange, and to place an alternative pro-
posal before the shareholders. On the 17tb of June he recoiveti
a letter stating that bia communication had been forwarded to tbe
National Com(iany, whoso reply was that it did not contain any
offer on which a new negotiation could be eti'ected. Tho Directors,
he went on to say, had shifted their ground, and now stated that
the reason for amalgamation was the necessity for joint action In
tbe face of tbe Bill which would be jtatsed this session enabling the
Post Office to purchase tbe trunk lines of the telephone companies.
Bat the National Company were sudicieotly interested in tho
Western Company to assist them in thoir negotiations with tho
<jovernment without amalgamation. If a dividend of 1 J per cent-
was all they were to expect it wa>^ tiine some other geotlemeti
undertook the management of tho undertaking. If the Directors
insisted on rushing tbiH matter through ultimately the shareliolders
would have to go to the i:ourla to secure thoir rights. Had tho
Board asked anybody else to buy the undertaking ?
The Chalmuui : No ; we have been from the very first a child
of the National, and certainly we have not gone elsewhere ; it is
utterly hopeless Co think of such a thing.
Mr. WUta : You have tied yourselves band and foot to tbe
National. There was a chance of selling the undertaking in
another quarter and on bettor terins. He proposed as an amend-
ment that the meeting be adjourned for three weeks to enable the
DiroctDrs to further consider the position.
tfr, BfaoEalcbt (Liverpool) seconded tbe amendment, and
urged that the National ('"jmpany had not been firmly met by tho
Board. The prospects of the Company were most encouraging.
Btr. B. W, S, Stroud supported the amendment.
Mr. Iniklp (solicitor to the Company) pointed out that the
National Company had power to control all the negotiations the
Company entered into.
Mr. Cory (Cardiff) said from the speeches that had been made it
appeared some people thouglit that the Direotors were a lot_of
'dufTers." But they were all successful
,ter acted in the best
<t tied themselves Co
Che Bristol SCock
valuable ci
contended that the Di
interests of the ehareholdors, and tbey had
tho National Company. If thoy relied
Eicbange they would have lost their moi
and got worse terms than the present.
The Chairmui said if the motion were rejected the position of
the shareholders might tie very much worse.
Tlie nmeadment was put to tbe meeting, and only aii hands
were held up against it.
Mr. Inalctp said a poll must be taken.
Mr. Wlilte protested a^nsC a poll being taken on a question of
adjournment, and said if it were persisted In the resolutfons would
be illegal, and the question would be tested in the courts.
The l>i rectors having consulted together.
The ChRlrmaii said be thought tbey must take a poll. A very
large number of shareholders had expressed their approval of the
course Chat the Directors hod t«ken.
Mr, Inaldp hinted at the possibility of a conference with the
Directors.
Mr. WUt« said he had intended to ask the Directors to receive
a certain number of shareholders during the three weeks to discuss
the various questions.
The Directors retired for consultation, and on their return,
Mr. Inaldp said it had been decided Co take a poll at once on
the motion for the adjournment.
Mr. WUte said he should test the matter in the courts, and '
asked the shareholders who agreed with him as to the desirability
of au adjournment to leave the room.
Several rose to their feet,
Mr. toaldp observed tliat as far as the Directors could
ascertain tho number of shares represent by the shareholders
present was 3,200.
Mr. Wlilte sjlvUed the ahareholders to leave.
All the shareholders, with the exception of three, left the
Telephone Company, who held 15!l,goCl shares, had not voted.
The resolution was then adopted, as also were resolutioi ~
the voluntary winding up of the ('ompany and the appoint
of Mr. T. A. Welton, Moorgaie.street, London, as liquidator
closed the proceedings.
A vote of thonka to the CTiairi
Waat AfrloaB Telacnsph CompMky.^A balance dividend ot
5e. per share is proposed by the Directors, making a total payment
of * per cent, (or the year ended Decemfwr last.
6m
THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, JUNE 24, 1892.
NEW COMPANIES REGISTERED.
Xtoetrlo Clook Comiiany, Limited.— Registered by Steadman,
Van Praa^h, and Sims, 23, Old Broad -street, EC, with a capital
of £1,200 in £1 shares. Object : the promotion and subsidising .of
companies, and the general business of a financial agency. There
shall not be less than two nor more than seven directors. The
first are to bo elected by the signatories to the memorandum of
association. Qualification, £50. Remuneration to be determined
by the Company in general meeting.
BUSINESS NOTES.
Western and BmallUui Telegraph Company.— The receipts
for the past week, after deducting 17 i)er cent, payable to the
London Platino-Brazilian Company, were £2,578.
8t. Jamea*s and Pall Bfall.— A private meeting of the holders
of founders' shares in the St. James's and Pall Mall Electric Light
Company, Limited, convened without consultation with the
Directors, was held at Winchester House yesterday.
City and South London Railway.— The receipts for the week
ebding June 19 were £771, against £721 for the same period of
last year, or an increase of £Eo. The total receipts to date from
January 1, 1892, show an increase of £1,207 as compared with last
year.
West Coast of Amerioa Telegraph.— The accounts for the year
1891 show, after deducting debenture interest and other charges,
a surplus balance of £1,413 to be carried forward. It is stated
that a land line is already in course of construction, which will
connect the Company's system with those of the Western and
Brazilian, the Brazilian Submarine, and the Eastern Telegraph
Companies.
National Telephone. —The Directors, at their meeting held on
Wednesday, resolved, subject to final audit, to recommend the
following dividends for the last half-year — viz., at the rate of 6 per
cent, per annum, less income tax, on tne amounts paid upon the first
and second preference shares ; and at the rate of 7 per cent, per
annum, less income tax, on the amount paid up on the ordinary
shares, making, with the interim dividend already paid, 6 per
cent, for the year ended April 30. The transfer-books of the
Company will be closed from July 1 to July 14, both days inclu-
sive, and the dividend warrants will be posted on the latter date.
New Firm.— Messrs. Bergtheil and Young have started as elec-
trical engineers and contractors at 13, Walbrook, E.C. Mr.
Arthur Bergtheil has been the late manager of the Wenham
Company's electrical department, and has carried out a large
installation at Madame Fatti's castle and theatre in Wales, abo
Holland House, Kensington, and he is also the designer of the
windmill plant at Messrs. Carwardine's mills in City-road, upon
which we have already commented. Mr. H. Wilson Young ia
late of Messrs. Clarke, Chapman, and Co., Gateshead -on-Tyne,
and was for some considerable time abroad for that firm in connec-
tion with Parsons high-speed turbo-generators supplied to the
Italian Government.
PROVISIONAL PATENTS, 1892.
June 13.
11050. Improvementa oonneeted with tabular electrlo oon-
dnotors. David Cook and Ernest Payne, 39, Victoria-
street, London.
11067. Improvementa In and oonneeted with Joining the ends of
telegraph and telephone and other wires, and In
maohines for preparing the said ends of the wires.
Weston Alcock Perry, 128, Colmore-row, Birmingham.
11071. Improvements In eleotrioal apparatus for soorisg In
billiards or other games, applicable also for showing
the number of revolutions of marine and other engines,
and for other purposes. William Smetham, 11, Victoria-
street, London.
110H5. Improvements In eleetrieal Indicators. Woodhouso and
Rawson United, Limited, 88, Queen Victoria-street, London.
(Richard Varley, United States.)
11087. Improvements In galvanie batteries. William Lloyd
Wise, 46, Lincoln's-inn-fields, London. (Tito Rosati,
Emilio Righetti, and Giulio O'Connell, Italy.)
Improvements in or relating to telegraphic instruments.
Arthur Cunningham Moll, 3!^, High Holborn, London.
Improvements in telephonio apparatus. Hemming
Hammarlund, 45, Southampton-buildings, Chancery-lane,
London.
June 14.
11119. Improvementa in eleetrio switohes. Francis Broadnax,
15, Water-street, Liverpool. (Complete specification.)
11126. An improved element by the aid of whieh a eurrant of
oleotrioity may be generated. John Peterson, 9, Gros-
venor-street, Colne, Lancashire.
11096.
11104.
11147.
11154.
11181.
11192.
11194.
11277.
11.302.
11316.
11320.
ii.*m.
11.35.3.
11.382.
11393.
11403.
11424.
11426.
Improvementa in aeoondary or storage batteries. Henr>
Herbert Lloyd, 323, High Holborn, London. (Complete
specification. )
Improvements in the method of welding metals elac-
trieally. William Phillips Thompson, 6, Lord-street,
LiveriXK)!. (Charles L. Coffin, United States.) (Complete
specincation. }
An improved oonstmotion of eleetrio alarm <doek.
William Petchey, 9, Warwick-court, Gray's-inn, London.
Improvements in and relating to the driving of dsmamo*
eleetrio maohines, and in apparatus therefor. Thomas
Reid, 46, Lincoln's-inn-fields, London.
June 15.
Improvements in Indioating apparatus for high-tonaloa
eirouits. Bernard Mervyn Drake and John Marshall
Gorham, 66, Victoria-street, London.
June 16.
Improvements in eleetrio eurrent meters. George A.
Goodwin and Herbert Foster, 2, Victoria-mansions, Victoria-
street, W^estmipster, London.
Improvements in eleotrioal measuring instruments.
Francis Henry Naldcr, Herbert Nalder, Charles William
Scott Crawley, and Alfred Soames, 16, Red Lion-street,
Clerkenwell, London.
Improvements in or oonneeted with eleetrio alarums.
Gerhard Wilhelm van Vianen, .33, Chancery-lane, London.
(Complete specification.)
Improvements in telephonio apparatus. Ciesar Vogt,
38, Chancery-lane, London. (Complete specification.)
JXTNE 17.
Improvements In easing for cables and wires. Frederick
Baumgart Nicholson, 9, St. Petersburg place, Bayswater,
London.
Improvements in eleetrieal alarum olooks. Daniel
James Mullarky, Sunbridge-chambers, Bradford. (Com-
plete specification. )
An improved prooess for manufaoturing oompound and
elementary bodies or ohemieal produots by means of
oleotrioity, and apparatus therefor. Herrman Niewerth,
4, South-street, Finsbury, London.
Improvements in or relating to eleotrio railways. Frank
Wynne, 46, Lincoln *s-inn-fields, London.
Improvements in eleotrio generators and motors.
Walter Thomas Goolden and Llewelyn Birchall Atkinson,
1, Queen Victoria- street, London. (Complete specification. )
June 18.
Improvements in automatic telephone and other eleetrio
ezohanges. George Cecil Dymond, 6, Lord-street, Liver-
pool. (Almon B. Strowger, United States.) (Complete
specification.)
Improvements in or relating to Indioating eleotrio
switohes and current reversers. George Cecil Dymond,
6, Lord-street, Liverpool. (Almon B. Strowger and
Walter S. Strowger, United States.) (Complete specifica-
tion.)
SPECIFICATIONS PUBLISHED.
1891.
8798. Eleotrioal signalling. Hanusse and Borrel.
104.34. Xleetrio meters. Singer.
12018. Eleotrioal gear for steering ships, etc. Wilson.
12529. Distributing eleotrio currents. B2dmunds.
12605. Xleetrio batteries. Lake. (Lacombe and Co.)
14517. Microphones. Siemens Bros, and Co., Limited. (Siemens
and Halske.)
153.37. Eleotrioal eondensers. Muirhead.
1892.
2488. Eleotrio lighting. Trippo.
725.3. Generating electrioity. Duffy.
COMPANIES' STOCK AND SHARE LIST.
Nani<;
Brush Co
— Pref.
India Rubber, Gutta Percha k Telegraph Co
House-to-House
Metropolitan Electric Supply
London Electric Supply
Swan United
St. James'
National Telephone
Electric GonstructioQ
Westminster EUectric
Liyerpool Electric Supply <
Paid.
10
5
5
5
10
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8 ^
Price
WeduM
day
3i
5|
7
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3i
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