Armstrongs hydro-electric machine
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Armstrongs hydro-electric machine
Sir William Armstrongs hydro-electric machine invented in the mid 19th century. It was the most powerful means of developing frictional electricity at the time and was one of the first machines capable of generating power on an industrial scale. During 1870-77 and 1883-85 Armstong rebuilt Cragside, the house he lived in, as a country estate. He created an artifical lake where a head of water was produced which powered a hydraulic ram used to provide water to the house and grounds. Later he created four additional lakes which were used to supply electricity to the house. Cragside was one of the first houses to be lit by electric light and was the first house in the world to be lit by hydro-electric power. In 1969 interest in steam electricty was renewed because of explosions caused by the ignition of chemical vapours during the washing of ships tanks with steam jets
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Media ID 6334115
© Sheila Terry
1969 Cragside William Armstrong
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the revolutionary Armstrongs hydro-electric machine, a groundbreaking invention by Sir William Armstrong in the mid-19th century. At that time, it stood as the most powerful means of generating frictional electricity and was one of the earliest machines capable of producing power on an industrial scale. During 1870-77 and 1883-85, Armstrong embarked on an ambitious project to transform his residence, Cragside, into a magnificent country estate. As part of this endeavor, he constructed an artificial lake that generated a head of water used to power a hydraulic ram supplying water to both the house and its sprawling grounds. Later on, four additional lakes were created solely for providing electricity to Cragside. Cragside holds immense historical significance as it became one of the pioneering houses illuminated by electric light. It proudly claims the title as the first home worldwide to be lit using hydro-electric power. This remarkable achievement marked a turning point in domestic lighting technology. Interestingly, this photograph also sheds light on events from 1969 when steam electricity regained attention due to explosions caused by igniting chemical vapors during ship tank washing with steam jets. Although unrelated to Armstrong's hydro-electric machine or Cragside itself, it serves as a reminder of how scientific advancements can sometimes lead us back towards previously explored avenues. This extraordinary image is brought to you by Science Photo Library – offering glimpses into our rich history while showcasing humanity's relentless pursuit of innovation and progress.
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