Edison-Lalande Primary Batteries
Production date
1903
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Object detail
Accession number
1982.668
Production period
Description
The battery plates are made of zinc and copper oxide in caustic soda covered with a small layer of heavy mineral oil to stop evaporation and splashing. They are white with blue lids and a rectangular wooden base. Both has three metal knobs on top of the lid , two of which have electrical wires attached. They were used a lot in boats for ignition, commonly using the 'Low Tension' or 'Wire Spark' system with moving contacts inside the cylinder and a solenoid to increase the spark. Each cell gave about 1 volt and they were used in sets of 6, giving a heavy current or intermittent discharge, and would run a year or more with average use, plates and electrolyte then being replaced.
Marks
Gladstone-Lalande Battery/ Model 100/ Pat Aug 2, 1892/ June 2, 1903 Embossed
Media/Materials
Credit Line
1903. Edison-Lalande Primary Batteries, 1982.668. The Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT).
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