Igranic Electric Co., Ltd.
147, Queen Victoria Street London, EC (1913)
Works: Elstow Works, Bedford (1923)

Electrical and radio component manufacturer.

Founded in 1906, Igranic started with electric motor starters and rheostats and diversified into radio components in the 1920s, making tuning coils and sets.

Shifted focus to steel mill and crane control gear in the 1930s.

Acquired by Metal Industries in 1941, then Cutler-Hammer in 1971.

Legacy: Innovation in electrical control gear and a brief but impactful role in the early radio industry.

The name “Irganic” emerged from a competition and was explained as follows: "I" came from the iron wire tube resistances wound on asbestos tubes and mounted behind the rheostat. "GRAN" was inspired by the slate base on which the button contacts were mounted, its marble-like finish resembling granite. The final "IC" came from the last two letters of "electric".

Igranic: A Journey of Innovation and Adaptation

Setting the Stage (1883-1913):

1883: American engineer George Mower arrives in England, establishing the foundation for Igranic's future with his work at Sturtevant Company and later collaboration with Harry Cutler in electric motor control.

1904: Key figures like A.H. Curtis and J.T. Mould join the growing team, bolstering Igranic's expertise.

1906: The Adams Manufacturing Company forms in Bedford, dividing its focus between car production and rheostat manufacturing, with Mower providing crucial financial backing. Adams revolutionises car production with foot pedals and the electric starter motor.

1913: Mr. Bacon acquired Adams' electrical assets, leading to the official registration of Igranic Electric Co. Ltd. on August 14th. Igranic's focus shifts to electric motor control gear, while maintaining a close partnership with Cutler-Hammer through a 21-year agreement granting global patent rights (excluding America) and a 15% profit share for C-H.[1]

The Radio Chapter (1920s-1930s):

Responding to the burgeoning demand, Igranic enters the exciting world of radio components in the 1920s. Their "honeycomb" tuning coils, manufactured under Westinghouse license, gain popularity among enthusiasts for their efficiency and ease of use. Igranic expands its repertoire with transformers, capacitors, and switches, empowering hobbyists to build their own radio sets.

In 1926, Igranic boldly stepped into the complete radio set market. Their Neutorodyne radios, renowned for superior selectivity and noise reduction, quickly earn the trust of discerning listeners. The Phonovox gramophone pickup (1929) further strengthened their position in the entertainment technology sector.

While radio set production ended around 1930, Igranic's contributions are significant. They democratise radio building for enthusiasts, pave the way for future advancements, and refine their engineering skills, ultimately benefiting their success in other sectors

Shifting Gears and Legacy (1930s-Present):

Recognizing the evolving market landscape, Igranic shifted its focus to steel mill and crane control gear in the 1930s, demonstrating their adaptability and resilience.

Following George Mower's death in 1941, Igranic experienced ownership changes, being acquired by Metal Industries and later Cutler-Hammer. [2]
Their coil manufacturing continues, even venturing into television deflector coils in the late 1940s. However, the coil winding section was acquired by Dagnall & Kendall Ltd. in 1956.[3]

Igranic's legacy remains one of innovation in electrical control gear and a brief but impactful role in the early radio industry. Their story serves as a testament to the power of adaptation and embracing new challenges, leaving a mark on diverse industries and inspiring businesses to evolve and thrive in a changing world.

Additional Details:

• 1913 company registration: Igranic Electric Co. was registered with a capital of £35,000 to carry on the business of Adams Manufacturing Co.'s electrical control gear. The first directors included F.R. Bacon, F.L. Pierce, A.W. Berresford, and G.A. Mower.

• Radios: Beyond Neutorodyne radios, Igranic also produced radio receivers like the "Igranic Four" and "Igranic Five" models, known for their sleek designs and high performance. They offered kits for enthusiasts to build their own sets, fostering a community of radio DIYers.

• Coil business takeover: Dagnall & Kendall Ltd., a respected manufacturer of electrical components, acquired Igranic's coil winding section in 1956. This move allowed Igranic to focus further on its core business of electric motor control gear while Dagnall & Kendall benefited from Igranic's expertise and established reputation in the coil-making field.

[1] Electrical Engineering Aug 21, 1913, Page 484.
[2] Wireless World Jan 1961, Page 9.
[3] Wireless World Sep 1956, Page 409.