H. K. Porter 106923-W 20-Watt Insulator

Day 365, and the end of Year Two: Thanks to a friend who is knowledgeable about such things and/or has contacts who can fill in the blanks, I can provide you with some interesting information about the "gift" left on my doorstep by our local power crew. The fellows know I have a small collection of old insulators, so when this one was slated for upgrade, they knew I'd enjoy having it. I have no idea what its value might be, although they said they'd never seen one like it, and the best-guess estimate as to its age places its manufacture in the 1950s era.

It is a wood-mount, 20-watt electrical-grade polycarbonate resin insulator, and according to H. K. Porter (the manufacturer) is able to resist damage by pellets, rocks, BB's, small bore rifles, accidental dropping during installation or mishandling during transit. It is 1600% lighter weight than a comparable glass insulator. It remains ductile and impact resistant to -60°F and does not distort in 250° heat. Its electrical performance retains its characteristics over a wide range of frequencies and temperatures. It is abrasion resistant, flame retardant and will not support combustion. Insulators such as this one are used by railroads for telephone, telegraph and other communication lines.

In its retirement, it will find a place of honor on one of my windowsills, unlike its more common ceramic cousins which are relegated to the garage. After more than fifty years of service, I think it deserves a bit of respect.

Stay tuned for Year Three, opening tomorrow!