Historical information

This resistor was part of the Hydro generator control metering system which displays what electricity is produced at the underground generators. The control centre can be hundreds of meters above the generators and this resistor reduces the large current to a small voltage entering a calibrated control monitor.

Significance

This resistor is highly significant to the Kiewa Valley because it represents a major construction and ongoing operational industry dealing with the supply of hydro electricity to Victoria. Although it is relatively small in size it is part of the controlling mechanism for the supply of a non polluting energy source for home and industrial use.

Physical description

This mainly metal and wire resistor has been built of copper and brass and designed to carry a current of 2000 Amperes. Wires are wound around a non conductive cement block which has grooves on the top and bottom ledges to hold the wires snuggle into place. At the rear there are three connection rods which have long 5mm thick screws (to fasten cable ends)

Inscriptions & markings

On one side it is scribed "0.2 OHMS" and underneath this "10 AMPS"