Molly Ayala
Electric clocks are beloved by many, but what happens when they get old? Is it safe to run them? Many people have concerns about the safety of running old electric clocks, and for good reason. Most of the danger comes from bad cords and bad electrical connections. If the clock is rated for 110 V now 120, or 220, now 240-case, fit a 100 to 220-Ohm 5-Watt resistor in series with the fuse to avoid overstressing the insulation on the old motor. The repair and restoration of old electric clocks can be a complex and delicate process, but it is possible to make them safe to use again.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety | Old electric clocks can be unsafe due to worn cables, bad electrical connections, and insulation failure. |
| Repairs | It is recommended to replace old wiring, use modern cords, and perform regular safety checks. Rewinding the coil to run on a lower voltage using a transformer is also possible. |
| Maintenance | Old electric clocks may require lubrication of gears and motor rotor units. |
| Aesthetics | Replacing the original mechanism with a modern movement is considered undesirable by purists. |
| Cost | The cost of repairing an old electric clock may exceed its value. |
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What You'll Learn
Old electric clocks can be a fire hazard
Another safety measure is to ground the clock's movement and use a grounded three-wire cord, reducing the chances of electrical shocks. An inline fuse mounted within the clock can also enhance safety. While some suggest rewinding the coil to lower the operating voltage, this requires careful testing and access to specific equipment, such as a variable AC voltage source or a transformer.
It is worth noting that some electric clocks, such as the Telechron/G.E. models, are known for their longevity and relatively low maintenance. However, even these clocks may eventually require relubrication of the gears and motor rotor to function optimally. Overall, while old electric clocks can pose fire hazards, proper maintenance, repairs, and safety checks can help ensure their safe operation.
To summarise, old electric clocks can present fire hazards, particularly due to electrical issues. However, with the right precautions, repairs, and replacements, these clocks can be made much safer to operate, preserving their functionality and longevity while also ensuring peace of mind.
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Rewinding the coil to run on a lower voltage
Running an old electric clock can pose safety risks, and one of the main concerns is the insulation failure of the wiring, which can lead to electric shocks or fires. Therefore, it is essential to take necessary precautions and make repairs to ensure the clock's safe operation.
To rewind the coil for lower voltage operation, it is necessary to have access to a variable AC voltage source ranging from 3V to 20V. This can be achieved using a multi-tapped low-power transformer or a combination of any transformer with a Variac (variable voltage transformer). However, the latter option may be costly, and the expense may outweigh the value of the clock being modified.
The process of rewinding the coil requires careful testing and calculations. For example, to achieve a target voltage of 16V, which is considered a standard voltage for intruder alarm panels and readily available worldwide, one must determine the number of turns needed for the clock to function properly. This calculation can be made by measuring the voltage and turns of the existing coil and adjusting the number of turns accordingly for the desired lower voltage.
It is important to note that while rewinding the coil can enhance safety, it should be done carefully to avoid damaging the clock's mechanism. Additionally, other safety measures, such as grounding the movement and using a grounded three-wire cord, are also recommended to further minimise electrical hazards associated with old electric clocks.
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Repairing old clocks to retain their original movement
Old electric clocks can be repaired and restored to their original appearance and movement, but with modifications for low voltage operation to make them safer. The most common problems with old wind-up clocks are dirt and lack of lubrication. To clean the clock, the movement must be removed from the housing, and a product like WD-40 can be used to blast away grit and solidified oil. Then, the clock can be lightly oiled with a very fine machine oil.
If the clock suddenly makes a loud bang and stops, the mainspring has either broken or come off the winding arbor. If the mainspring is housed in a barrel, no harm has likely been caused, but replacing a mainspring is not a task for amateurs. The movement must be completely disassembled, and the spring must be measured to ensure a replacement of the correct strength. The spring must then be degreased, regreased, and fitted.
If the clock has stopped between 12 and 1 o'clock, and there is resistance when moving the minute hand forward, the strike train may have run down and lost power before completing its strike sequence. The minute hand can be turned back by a few minutes, and the strike side can be wound, which will probably resume the striking.
For safety, old electrical parts that are potentially dangerous should be replaced. The most common sources of danger are bad cords and bad electrical connections. Using a grounded three-wire cord and grounding the movement can make the clock safer. An inline fuse mounted in the clock is also recommended.
Rewinding the existing coil to use a lower voltage requires initial testing and access to a variable AC voltage of between 3 and 20V. A multi-tapped low power transformer or any handy transformer and a Variac (variable voltage transformer) can be used.
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Safety concerns with insulation failure
Electric clocks, especially antique ones, can pose safety risks due to insulation failure. Insulation breakdown can lead to electric shocks or even electrocution, which can be fatal. Old rubber wiring tends to deteriorate over time, increasing the risk of exposure to live wires. This is further exacerbated by the lack of safety standards in older clocks, such as the absence of a safety earth connection.
To address these concerns, it is crucial to inspect the clock's wiring and insulation regularly. Any signs of deterioration or damage should be addressed immediately. Replacing old wiring with modern THHN wiring or reinforcing it with heat shrink tubing can enhance safety. Additionally, consider using a grounded three-wire cord and grounding the movement of the clock to minimise the risk of electric shock.
The clock's power cord also requires attention. If the cord appears brittle or questionable, it is advisable to replace it. Using a small plug-in wall transformer to power the clock can be a safer alternative. Furthermore, an inline fuse mounted within the clock can provide additional protection against electrical hazards.
In the event of insulation failure, the clock may catch fire. This typically occurs when the field coil insulation is compromised, causing an increase in temperature. The bulbs used in some clocks can also pose a fire risk due to their high temperature. It is recommended to unplug the clock when not in use or when leaving the house as a precautionary measure.
While some may argue for retaining the clock's originality, safety should always come first. Old insulation may not meet modern standards, and the risk of electric shock or fire poses a serious threat. By prioritising safety, you can ensure that these antique clocks can be preserved and enjoyed for generations to come.
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Electric motor lubrication and relubrication
Electric clocks, especially older models, can be a fire hazard due to bad cords and electrical connections. It is recommended to replace old wiring and to ground the movement using a grounded three-wire cord. An inline fuse mounted in the clock is also advised. Some people rewind the coil to run on a lower voltage and use a small plug-in wall transformer to power the clock. This can be done using a variable AC voltage of between 3 and 20V.
Electric motors are crucial to the functioning of many devices, and proper lubrication is essential to their performance and longevity. Most electric motors are designed with grease-lubricated, anti-friction, rolling-element bearings. The grease provides an oil film that prevents metal-to-metal contact between the rotating element and races, reducing friction and wear.
Incorrect lubrication practices, such as using the wrong type of grease, can lead to premature bearing failure. Therefore, it is important to select a grease specifically designed for electric motors, which is different from multipurpose extreme-purpose (EP) grease. Over-lubrication should also be avoided, as it can cause the motor to overheat and lead to high energy consumption and oil separation.
To ensure proper lubrication, consider investing in an ultrasonic device equipped with a single-point lubricator for automated lubrication. This technology can help extend the service life of the motor by providing precise and consistent lubrication.
In conclusion, whether it is an old electric clock or an electric motor, proper maintenance and lubrication are key to safe and efficient operation. By taking the necessary precautions and using the correct materials, you can keep your devices running smoothly and safely.
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Frequently asked questions
Old electric clocks can be unsafe due to worn cables and frayed wires, which can cause electrical shock hazards. It is important to thoroughly inspect and repair any damaged parts before use.
Check for any signs of wear and tear, especially on the cables and wires. If the wiring is frayed or the insulation is deteriorating, it is recommended to replace it with modern cord or THHN-rated wire.
Over time, the lubrication in electric clocks can become gummy or dried out, causing the gears to freeze up. The clocks may also become noisy or stop working due to motor issues.
You can repair an old electric clock by cleaning and lubricating the exposed gear assembly. If the clock has a motor, you may need to relubricate the motor rotor and rewind the coil to use a lower voltage.
Old electric clocks can be repaired and restored to their original condition or modified for low-voltage operation, preserving their functionality and safety. However, the decision to repair depends on the sentimental or monetary value attached to the clock.
