I.T.E. Imperial

History of ITE Imperial

ITE Imperial was a significant player in the electrical equipment industry, known for its circuit breakers, switches, and testing devices like the GFT-200 ground fault tester. Below is a concise history of the company based on available information:

  • 1880s–1900s: Origins as Cutting & Washington
    • Founded in the 1880s in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, as the Cutting & Washington company, focusing on early electrical distribution equipment. By 1891, it was incorporated as the Cutter Electrical and Manufacturing Company, specializing in circuit breakers and switches.
  • 1920s–1930s: Rebranding to ITE Circuit Breaker Company
    • In the early 20th century, the company rebranded to ITE Circuit Breaker Company (ITE standing for “Inverse Time Element,” referring to a circuit breaker tripping mechanism). It became a leader in manufacturing circuit breakers, panelboards, switchgear, and related electrical equipment for industrial and commercial applications.
  • 1968: Merger with Imperial-Eastman
    • In 1968, ITE Circuit Breaker Company merged with Imperial-Eastman Corporation, a Chicago-based firm known for tools and fittings, forming ITE Imperial Corporation. This merger expanded its portfolio and market reach, combining electrical expertise with broader industrial capabilities.
  • 1970s: Acquisition by Gould Inc.
    • In 1973, Gould Inc., a diversified electronics and industrial products company, acquired ITE Imperial. This acquisition allowed ITE to leverage Gould’s resources for innovation and expansion in electrical distribution systems, including products like the GFT-200 ground fault tester.
  • 1980s: Transition to Siemens
    • In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Gould faced financial challenges, leading to the sale of ITE Imperial’s electrical distribution division to Siemens in 1983. Siemens integrated ITE’s product lines (e.g., circuit breakers, switchgear) into its portfolio, phasing out the ITE Imperial brand over time. Some ITE products, like circuit breakers, are still recognized in the industry under Siemens’ name.