The Thomas A. Edison Technical Center, near Franksville, Wisconsin, is an internationally recognized laboratory devoted to electric power technology. Technologies include analytical chemistry, electronic controls, materials research, apparatus development, and high power/voltage testing. These technologies support Cooper's electrical transmission and distribution products and services marketed worldwide.

The Thomas A. Edison Technical Center applies leading technologies to product development, quality, and testing. It also provides essential product support technologies and consulting services. Development and support activities are divided into the following groups:

Apparatus --- This group uses electromechanical technologies to develop fuses, distribution switchgear, and transformers; successfully integrating structural, mechanical, thermodynamic, and electromagnetic engineering. Tools used include Computer-aided design (CAD), finite element analysis (FEA), computer-based data acquisition systems, and model-making labs.

Materials --- This group specializes in insulating and semiconducting ceramics, insulation/dielectric systems such as thermoplastic/thermoset polymers, fluids, fluid/paper, and fluid/film. Products supported include capacitors, surge arresters, cable connection systems, and transformers. Complete facilities for prototype construction and evaluating operating stresses are maintained. Non-destructive testing techniques include ultrasonic and infrared thermography. A complete T.A.P.P.I. standard paper testing facility is also used.

Power Test Laboratories --- This complex includes high power, high voltage, and synthetic test facilities designed to cover design, development, and final proof testing of distribution equipment according to U.S. and international standards. Certified test reports are provided. Short circuit capabilities include a 500-MVA three phase test generator, with voltage transformation up to 69 kV, momentary current test capacity of 150 kA, and a synthetic compound test circuit for testing up to 37 kA and 288 kV. High voltage capabilities include a 2100-kV impulse voltage generator, a 200-kA impulse current generator, a 350-kV, 60-Hz high potential transformer, a transmission line switching surge generator, a shielded lab for RIV and partial discharge testing up to 200 kV, and environmental and cold room facilities.

Distribution Test Line --- An 11 kV, 3-wire, ungrounded European distribution test line was built in Franksville to test equipment application and configuration. Included is a fully functional SCADA system.

Laboratory Services --- This lab provides a full range of capabilities to evaluate chemical, mechanical, physical, thermal, and electrical properties of all types of materials. Analysis of polymers, insulating fluids, films liquids, gaseous, and solid materials are achieved through chromatographic tools which include mass spectrometry, Fourier Transform infrared, high temperature gel permeation, and gas/liquid/ion chromatography. Thermal analysis techniques include gravimetric, dynamic mechanical, differential scanning calorimetry, thermomechanical, and differential thermal. Capabilities from microanalysis include scanning electron microscopy and X-ray. Paints and coatings are evaluated in conformance to international/national standards.

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Unique Three-Wire Test Line Operates a Thomas A. Edison Technical Center