The Impact of Edward Dean Adams on the Development of Niagara Falls Infrastructure

In 1893, Edward Dean Adams, the head of the Niagara Falls Cataract Construction Company, consulted with Nikola Tesla regarding the optimal system for transmitting power generated at Niagara Falls. This consultation came after years of proposals and competitions among various US and European companies, which included options such as two-phase and three-phase alternating current (AC) systems, as well as high-voltage direct current (DC) systems. Tesla recommended a two-phase system as the most reliable option, highlighting the Westinghouse system that effectively powered incandescent bulbs using two-phase AC. Following Tesla's expert advice and the successful demonstration of the system at the Columbian Exposition, the Niagara Falls Cataract Construction Company awarded a contract to Westinghouse Electric to construct a two-phase AC generating system. Concurrently, General Electric was contracted to develop the AC distribution system. This pivotal decision not only showcased Tesla's innovative vision but also marked a significant advancement in electrical engineering, ultimately leading to the widespread adoption of AC power systems across the globe. #mooflife #mof #MomentOfLife #NiagaraFalls #Tesla #Westinghouse #AcPower #ElectricalEngineering