[Lowfer] [Other] History AC

Wed, 17 Mar 2004 18:26:11 -0600

Back in Tech school in the 50's I was told the change was brought about
because the 50 Hz caused to much flicker in the Edison light bulbs.
Lewis

> I think I remember reading waaaayy back when I was young and new to all
this
> stuff, that it was the price vs quality of the steel for motors,
generators
> and transformers.  Better quality, higher cost but higher frequency
implying
> less steel would be needed.
>
> I believe the original Niagra Falls power plant of Testla/Westinghouse was
> 25 Hz.  At the other extreme, I once had a surplus blower that was used to
> provide air flow for cooling electronics (I think in the B-36?) that
turned
> 13,000 rpm but needed something like 3 phase 110 VAC @ 1000 Hz.  Some
> ridiculous airflow.....the motor was small, about 4 inches in diameter and
4
> to 5 inches long, weighed perhaps 3-4 lbs and I think had a .6 hp stamped
on
> the nameplate.  I got it thru surplus channels in the early 1960's, had it
> with me thru several moves until 1995 or so.  I would look at it, marvel
at
> the ratings and swear I would build a PS just to see it run.  Never did<G>
>
> I also vaguely remember talk/writings in the trade rags about how much
steel
> and $$ could be saved if we would switch to 400Hz.  This was after all the
> WW2 experience with aircraft where weight is critical.  What they forgot
to
> mention was the cost to switch from 60hz in 1960 ;-)
>
> Gary WA6DTX
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Peter Barick" <[email protected]>
> To: <[email protected]>
> Sent: Wednesday, March 17, 2004 12:44 PM
> Subject: [Lowfer] [Other] History AC
>
>
> >
> > In the AC power industry, does anyone know a source of info on how 60Hz
> > came about in U.S., contrasted w/ say 50Hz elsewhere?
> >
> > I've also seen where in Quebec 16 2/3Hz was used industrially. Purpose
> > of this?
> >
> > Peter
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