Abstract: An electrical assembly, such as an insulator or a surge arrester, utilizing a plurality of elastomeric weathershed housings for enclosing a core member therein. The elastomeric weathershed housings are coupled and sealed together by an insulating collar. A radially directed force is applied to the collar or the weathershed housings to cause intimate contact between the collar and the end portions of the weathershed housings to provide a weathertight seal. In the preferred embodiment, the radially directed force is provided by insertion of the core member into the axial bore of the weathershed housings causing radial outward expansion of the weathershed housings into intimate contact with the insulating collar. In another embodiment, the radially directed force is provided by a heat shrinkable insulating collar, which is shrunk about the end portions of adjacent weathershed housings. The core member can be an insulating rod or a plurality of electrical components, such as metal oxide varistors.

Abstract: A multiple outlet receptacle, such as one having four outlets in respective quadrants, is provided with a surge suppression circuit including a metal oxide varistor edgewise between the front and back of the device, other electronic elements, including dual status indicators, connected with an outer ring like contact plate and secured within portions of the insulating housings. Features for compactness and ease of assembly are provided. A pilot light indicator may alternatively be provided in receptacles without a surge suppressor utilizing some of the same components and assembly features.

Abstract: A device for isolating an arrester has first and second electrical terminals mechanically and electrically coupled together. The electrical connection includes a mechanism for automatically interrupting the electrical connection and creating a spark gap. A gas generating device is provided for physically and electrically separating the first and second terminals subsequent to creation of a spark.