Westinghouse Induction Motor, 1886-1889

Summary

Nikola Tesla's name is inseparable from the development of alternating current electricity--particularly with regard to polyphase transmission, but especially with regard to the induction motor. His motor, patented in 1888, was the first practical AC motor. George Westinghouse licensed Tesla's motor patents that same year--enabling the Westinghouse AC lighting system to become a real competitor with direct current systems.

Nikola Tesla's name is inseparable from the development of alternating current electricity--particularly with regard to polyphase transmission, but especially with regard to the induction motor. His motor, patented in 1888, was the first practical AC motor. George Westinghouse licensed Tesla's motor patents that same year--enabling the Westinghouse AC lighting system to become a real competitor with direct current systems.

Artifact

Motor

Date Made

1886-1889

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

29.1333.193

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Westinghouse Electric and Manufacturing Company.

Material

Metal
Iron (Metal)

Color

Black (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 9.75 in

Width: 8.5 in

Length: 8.5 in

Inscriptions

on plate: THE WESTINGHOUSE ELECTRIC CO/ PITTSBURGH, PA/ 206

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