Fig. 196.—Molded Aerial Insulator

The aerial must be very carefully insulated from its supports and all surrounding objects. The insulation must be strong enough to hold the weight of the aerial and able to withstand any strain caused by storms.

Special aerial insulators made of molded insulating material and having an iron ring imbedded in each end are the best.

Fig. 197.—A Porcelain Cleat will make a Good Insulator for Small Aerials.

Ordinary porcelain cleats may be used on small aerials where the strain is light.

One insulator should be placed at each end of each wire close to the spreader or spar.

Most aerials are made up of four wires. The wires should be placed as far apart as possible.

There are several different forms of aerials, the principal ones of which are shown in Figure 199. They are known as the grid, “V," inverted “L,” and “T” types.