Definition
Karl B. McEachron (1886 – 1959) was an American electrical engineer and professor noted for his pioneering work in high‑voltage engineering, lightning research, and the development of impulse generators.
Overview
Born on May 30, 1886, in St. Louis, Missouri, McEachron earned his B.S. in electrical engineering from the University of Missouri in 1908 and completed graduate studies at the University of Chicago. He joined the faculty of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1910, where he eventually became the head of the Electrical Engineering Department (1930–1948).
McEachron’s research focused on the generation and measurement of high‑voltage impulses, which were essential for studying lightning phenomena and for testing electrical insulation. He designed the “McEachron impulse generator,” a large-scale Marx‑type circuit capable of producing voltage impulses exceeding one million volts. This apparatus was employed by both academic institutions and the U.S. military during the 1930s and World War II for testing aircraft and weaponry against lightning strikes.
In professional societies, McEachron served as president of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers (AIEE) in 1936–1937, a predecessor of the modern Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). He received the IEEE Medal of Honor in 1931 for his contributions to high‑voltage engineering and lightning protection.
Etymology/Origin
The surname “McEachron” is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic “MacEachrain,” meaning “son of Eachrain,” where “Eachrain” is a personal name possibly meaning “horseman” or “horse‑rider.” The middle initial “B.” stands for “Benedict,” his middle name.
Characteristics
- Field of Expertise: High‑voltage engineering, impulse testing, lightning physics.
- Key Contributions:
- Development of the high‑voltage impulse generator (often referred to as the “McEachron generator”).
- Advancements in lightning protection standards for structures and aircraft.
- Publication of numerous technical papers and textbooks on high‑voltage phenomena.
- Professional Roles:
- Professor and department head at MIT.
- President of the AIEE (1936–1937).
- Consultant to the U.S. War Department and the National Bureau of Standards.
- Awards and Honors:
- IEEE Medal of Honor (1931).
- Honorary doctorate from the University of Missouri (1942).
Related Topics
- High‑voltage engineering
- Impulse (electrical) generators
- Lightning protection and research
- Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Electrical Engineering Department
- Marx generator (related technology)