History of electric light

Chapter 42: ENCLOSED SERIES ALTERNATING CURRENT ARC LAMPS

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Engineering & Technology History - Modern (1750+)

About This Book

A chronological, technical survey of electric lighting traces developments from early experiments with friction machines, Leyden jars and voltaic piles through advances in batteries, electromagnetic discoveries and the invention of the dynamo. It follows the parallel evolution of arc and incandescent illumination, outlining experimental filament and arc-control methods and the move to commercial installations and distribution schemes such as series, multiple and three‑wire systems. Later sections review later lamp technologies—Nernst, mercury‑vapor, gas‑filled and tungsten types—together with transformers, rectifiers, standardized voltages and sockets. The book is illustrated and includes a chronology, cost and usage statistics, and a selected bibliography.

ENCLOSED SERIES ALTERNATING CURRENT ARC LAMPS

The simplicity of the constant current transformer soon drove the constant direct-current dynamo from the market. An enclosed arc lamp was therefore developed for use on alternating constant current. Two sizes of lamps were made; one for 6.6 amperes consuming 450 watts and having an efficiency of about 4½ lumens per watt, and the other 7.5 amperes, 480 watts and 5 l-p-w (clear glassware). These lamps soon superseded the direct current series arcs. They have now been superseded by the more efficient magnetite arc and tungsten filament incandescent lamps.