Research in the Electrical Industry

Abstract

THE main object of the British Electrical and Allied Industries Research Association, 15 Savoy Street, W.C.2 (the E.R.A.), is the co-operation of all sections of the electrical industry and of all those associated with it, in the general interests, of the industry and in the national interest. The sections include manufacturers of electric plant, those who supply electricity, those who make extensive use of it and scientific and technical investigators. The desired results, namely, industrial expansion and public benefit, can only be attained by team work of the highest order. The Association is well supported by the industries affected. During the last five years, the income has increased from £31,600 to £65,840. The main work done is to increase the efficiency and trustworthiness of electrical apparatus and of electrical supply. A reduction of cost is for the public benefit, and this can be achieved by expanding the field of utility and increasing the use and demand. Among other researches carried out was one on the thermal stability and ignitability of dielectrics. A range of standard heat sources was devised to simulate the conditions which occur in practice. The method of applying those heat sources when testing insulating materials for resistance to applied heat and the grading of them is described in a new report (Ref. jL/64) issued during the year. A novel feature of interest is the standard flame, produced by a spirit burner of the Barthel type, which is reproducible to a degree of accuracy not possible with the Meker gas burner which it replaces. An extension of this work is in progress on the behaviour of ignitable materials under different ambient conditions, such as draught, with the object of devising means whereby self-extinguishing materials may be graded to better advantage.