Russell Hobbs Electric Kettle
From Object Wiki
| Russell Hobbs Model K1 | |
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| Manufacturer | Russell Hobbs |
| Production years | 1956 |
| Production location | (unknown) |
This Russell Hobbs Model K1 1956 kettle was claimed to be the first kettle to switch off automatically when the water boiled. Before then kettles had protection only when they boiled dry. The K1 was the first that you could switch on, and then carry on with what you were doing, knowing that it didn’t need watching.
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[edit] How it works
The heating element has low electrical resistance and allows a large current to flow. This heats up the element, which is submerged in the water, and the water heats up too. After a while a bimetallic thermostat connected to the power switch turns off the power when the water is boiling.
[edit] Memories
I remember that this was the first electric kettle my mother had. We got it from the Kensitas cigarette catalogue (which was the equivalent of the Argos/Nectar rewards today – only with side effects). Previously we had an aluminium kettle for large quantities and a smaller whistle kettle, both boiled on the cooker. The lightweight lid of this kettle sometimes did not fit securely in place and it was possible for escaping steam to scald your hands if you were not careful. But it was a successful design and we went on to buy another two, at least, before jug kettles were introduced.
— Derek Bryan
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Do you remember this kettle? Add your memories. |
[edit] In the Science Museum
Source: Simon Moses
Entry: No: E2007.309.1
Inv: L2008-4054
This object is currently on display in the Dan Dare & the Birth of Hi-Tech Britain exhibition at the Science Museum, London.