Overview
Westinghouse Electric Corporation was an American manufacturing company founded in 1886 by George Westinghouse in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The company played a major role in the development and adoption of alternating current (AC) electrical power systems and became a leading producer of electrical equipment, industrial systems, and consumer products.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1886 |
| Founder | George Westinghouse |
| Headquarters | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Industry | Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing |
| Key Products | Generators, transformers, turbines, radios, appliances, nuclear systems |
| Notable Contributions | AC power systems, electrification infrastructure, nuclear power technology |
| Peak Era | Early to mid-20th century |
| Later Status | Reorganized; brand and divisions sold or spun off |
Description
Westinghouse was a pioneer in electrical engineering, particularly in the implementation of alternating current systems that enabled efficient long-distance power transmission. The company manufactured a wide range of products, including heavy electrical equipment, industrial machinery, broadcast electronics, and household appliances.
Westinghouse also became a major force in broadcasting, founding radio station KDKA in 1920, one of the first commercial radio stations in the United States. Over time, the company diversified into nuclear energy, defense systems, and electronics.
History
- 1886: Company founded by George Westinghouse in Pittsburgh.
- Late 1880s–1890s: Development and promotion of AC power systems during the “War of Currents.”
- 1893: Westinghouse system used to power the Chicago World’s Fair.
- 1895: Niagara Falls power project demonstrated large-scale AC transmission.
- Early 1900s: Expansion into turbines, generators, and industrial systems.
- 1920: Launch of KDKA, pioneering commercial radio broadcasting.
- Mid-20th century: Growth into consumer appliances and electronics.
- 1950s–1960s: Entry into nuclear power technology and reactor development.
- 1980s–1990s: Diversification and restructuring; sale of industrial divisions.
- 1997: Original Westinghouse Electric Corporation renamed CBS Corporation after selling core industrial businesses.