Laboratory Model of Tesla Motor, circa 1895

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

circa 1895

 On Exhibit

On Loan - Museum of Science and Industry (Chicago, IL)

Object ID

29.1333.171

Credit

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

Material

Metal

Dimensions

Weight: 34 lbs

Related Content

Connect 3

Discover curious connections between artifacts.

Learn More