Sparks Electrical News January 2018

• Cables and cable accessories • Earthing, lightning and surge protection • Lighting FEATURES

JANUARY 2018

E L E C T R I C A L N E W S

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER | BUYERS’ GUIDE | PEOPLE ON THE MOVE REGULARS:

networks. In 2018, solar roof shingles will become more accessible, leading to increased demand for electricians to wire the systems into residential electrical systems. The enthusiasm for energy efficiency has extended to the auto- motive sector as well, with ever-larger numbers of electrical cars be- ing sold. During this year, we will see more parking lots equipped with electrical outlets to charge electric cars. Wearable technology Continued innovation and accessibility to wearable technology is expected in the years ahead. These devices are already helping con- tractors stay safe on site, and can be worn under or on top of cloth- ing. 2018 will see the more general use of high-tech wearables such as GPS-enabled vests, smart hats that provide 3D visual overlays and 360-degree cameras. Drones The use of drones for inspecting power lines and other parts of the grid will increase this year. Because drones are equipped with cam- eras to collect information in locations that may not be accessible by humans, these devices will allow for far better maintenance, site assessment and inspection, as well as progress monitoring. 2018 looks set to be the year electrical contracting becomes smarter and more technology-driven. As the industry expands and creates new chal- lenges for contractors, electricians will keep growing and adapting with it. New technologies, new techniques and new demands from customers will continue to shake things up, and as the field becomes more diversified, it will bring more opportunities for those contractors who stay abreast of the changes. THE YEAR OF THE ‘SMART’ CONTRACTOR

F rom smart homes to smart cars – and smart everything in between – the Internet of Things (IoT) is promising to change every element of our lives. We are entering a world where our alarm clock triggers the coffee pot to start brewing and tells the tiles in the bathroom to heat up; a world where our water meters can tell the municipality when there is a leak; a world where the IoT allows us (and our doctors) to monitor our health all day, every day. With the advent of IoT, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics, as well as other emerging technologies, the next few years will see the term ‘electrical contractor’ becoming a misnomer. Some industry experts have sug- gested that a more suitable description of electricians in the future is ‘energy contractors’. Massive changes have been predicted for those working in the elec- trical industry in the years ahead. While robotic assistants that can talk to us are still a way from becoming a reality, 2018 will see further tech- nological advances that will profoundly impact the role of the electrical contractor. We are connecting our street and traffic lights, building management systems, weather sensors, utilities and road and motorway manage- ment systems together, creating so-called Smart Cities. This year, we will start seeing more smart lighting systems that will allow lamps reaching end of life to report their replacement date automatically. Smart meters will continue to replace older ones, and 2018 will be the start of a new data-driven future for electricians as they begin using the data from smart meters to optimise energy performance. Artificial intelligence With the rapid growth of smart electrical systems, control of these is increasingly being automated with AI. Electrical systems are com- plicated, with multi-input multi-output, time varying parameters and many control loops. 2018 will see the increased use of AI to continu- ously check the system state in a much more detailed manner than was previously possible. Energy efficiency Energy efficiency is nothing new, but as it continues to gain momen- tum, contractors are increasingly being called on to commission new generation wind and solar systems and tie them into existing electrical Here are a few to look out for: IoT and Smart Cities

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PERSONALITY OF THE MONTH: WILLIE HARMSE

HEADS UP, KEEP STRONG – THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT

Sparks: What do you enjoy most about your job? WH: There is never a dull moment in my job. Each day brings new challenges and takes me a step closer to realising my dream. I love working with my staff and seeing them grow in something that is a passion to all of us. And, I really enjoy seeing my customers happy and satisfied. Sparks: How do you motivate your staff? WH: I am hands-on in every aspect of the business. I motivate my staff by working with them and I make every attempt to lead by example. I encourage them to set personal and work-related five and ten year goals, and I assist them to achieve their goals in the workplace so they can use the same approach to reach their personal goals as well. Sparks: If you could ‘do it all again’, would you change anything? If so, what would that be? WH: When it comes to my career, I would work smarter and not necessarily harder. On the personal side, I would make more time for my family and hunt more. Sparks: Would you advise a person leaving school to enter the electrical industry? And why? WH: Yes, I absolutely encourage youngsters to enter our industry – there are so many opportunities and such demand for qualified electricians, not only in our industry directly, but also in specialised fields. Technology is ever-changing, and I can’t wait to see what comes next. Sparks: What is your advice to electrical contractors and/or electrical engineers? WH: Heads up and keep strong – the future is bright. Stay up to date with changing technology. This will enable you to offer your customers good value for money on brands that can back up their warrantees (in all electrical fields: cable, lighting, switchgear and general). Sparks: What is your favourite quote? WH: My favourite quote is by Mary Kay Ash: ‘There are three types of people in this world: Those who make things happen,

happen, Willie, when asked what he would change if he could do it all over again, says he would work smarter and not harder! Sparks: Where were you educated? WH: I matriculated from High School Brits and then went on to study for my electrical diploma and wireman’s license at Tshwane South TVET College. I qualified as an Electrician at Olifantsfontein. Sparks: How long have you been involved in the electrical industry? WH: I have been involved in the electrical industry for 23 years. Sparks: When and where did you start your career? WH: I began my career while doing my apprenticeship to qualify as an electrician at numerous electrical contractors for three years. In November 1996, I joined Paragon and worked myself up from Internal Sales to Branch Manager. I left Paragon just before it was sold and joined Premier Cable & Wire as a sales representative in 2010, where I worked until 2013. Sparks: What are the greatest changes you have seen over the years? WH: The greatest change has been the enormous progress in technology, and also product quality and reliability … they just don’t make them like they used to! Sparks: What major projects have you worked on and what is your greatest accomplishment? WH: Starting my own business, Megalight Electrical was certainly a major project and my greatest achievements are my two boys, Ethan and Dylan. Sparks: Have you won any awards? WH: I have won numerous sales related awards over the years. Sparks: Who has been your inspiration or have you had a mentor who has influenced your career? WH: Peter Willson, the owner of Premier Cable & Wire motivated and believed in me. He gave me the opportunities to better myself in life. Manny Netto, a former manager of mine inspired me and pushed me constantly to be the best I could be. Sparks: What, to your mind, is one of the biggest challenges facing the industry at this time? WH: There are three challenges facing our industry at the moment: the uncertain political and economic future of South Africa; the current economic climate in the country, which is hampering development and discouraging investors; and finally, inferior products which are being imported into the country. IDENTIFY OUTDOOR ITEMS FOR UP TO 12 YEARS M any outdoor identification solutions fade, shrink, crack or fall-off after a couple of years, making them unreadable and therefore irrelevant. According to test results in accelerated weathering as per ASTM G155, Cycle 1, Brady’s B-8591 halogen free, ultra-durable outdoor identification label remains attached and clearly legible for up to 12 years in tough outdoors conditions. The label is weather resistant and doesn’t need an over-laminate to protect its print. Clear and durable identification increases the efficient use of equip- ment, components, vehicles, tools and facilities, and it doesn’t need fre- quent replacement. Available in black print on a yellow, silver or white surface, and in white print on black, the toughest outdoor identification label is ideal for barcoding and identifying electrical cabinets, vehicles, equipment, facilities and solar panels. Potential applications also include identifica- tion on signposts, lighting, vending machines, rooftop air conditioning units, doors or outside stairwells. In sectors with outdoor activities or products, like telecom, construction or electrical, the toughest outdoor label will increase efficiency through clear identification and communi- cation on the spot. The B-8591, part of Brady’s Workhorse™ Label Series, can be printed on location using the BBP11, BBP12 or BradyPrinter i7100 from Brady. When coupled with labelling software, several barcode and serialisa- tion options become available for on-site printing. Because the label is self-adhesive and does not require an over-laminate, it is easy to print and apply.

Willie Harmse

WILLIE HARMSE owner of Megalight Electrical loves the current pace of technological and digital change and looks forward to new developments in the industry, especially when he can pass the benefits onto his clients. Willie leads by example and, having been inspired by a mentor in his youth, enjoys mentoring and encouraging his staff to be the very best they can be. Being the type of person who makes things APPROVED MINIATURE CIRCUIT BREAKERS FROM ZEST WEG GROUP

Those who watch things happen and Those who wonder what happened.’ Sparks: Name three things on your ‘bucket list’?

WH: I would like to travel abroad with my family; hunt a buffalo, an elephant and a hippo in Tanzania; and seemy boys achieve their dreams.

HIGH POWERED dc CONTACTOR GIGAVAC has released its largest dc contactor to-date. The HX460 will switch 1 000 A at 1 500 V dc. Features include: • Robust high voltage/high power load break bi-directional dc contactor. • Designed for high voltage power conversion equipment – photovoltaic, inverters, battery packs, dc combiner

boxes and other high voltage dc industrial systems. • Excellent isolation performance; 10 kV withstand between open contacts for critical safety ap- plications. • Mechanically linked SPDT auxiliary

A full range of approved miniature circuit breakers, offering pro- tection against overload and short circuit in electric conductors, is available from Zest WEG Group.

A full range of approved miniature circuit breakers, offering protection against overload and short circuit in electric conductors, is available from Zest WEG Group. The WEG MDW and WEG MDWH miniature circuit-breaker lines comply with the tripping characteristic curves B and C, according to standards IEC 60898 and IEC 60947-2. These miniature circuit breakers have been developed to be used in low voltage circuits with direct or alternating current from 2 to 125 A and short circuit breaking capacity up to 10 kA. The full range includes all accessories in both 5 kA and 10 kA, making it possible for the Zest WEG Group to supply customers with complete solutions for specific projects. All the WEG MDW and WEG MDWH miniature circuit breakers can be used in both commercial and domestic applications.

contacts for critical safety applications, to provide reliable indication of the status of the main contacts. • Hermetically sealed; exceeds IP67-69 specifications. No exposed arcing to open air environments. • Designed to meet UL1604 for hazardous locations.

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SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JANUARY 2018

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2017/08/25 8:55 AM

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BIRD TECHNOLOGIES LAUNCHES NEW CHANNEL POWER MONITOR

B ird Technologies, a leading provider of RF components, subsystems, test equipment and services, and represented locally by Comtest Solutions, has launched a Channel Power Monitor that monitors all aspects of land mobile radio systems. It comprises a 1 RU central proces- sor and a variety of sensors, which work together to monitor all components of a radio system, in- cluding each individual radio, the combiner, the feed lines and antenna. These inexpensive sensors are placed throughout the system, with a 5% accuracy that is traceable to NIST. The Channel Power Monitor hosts its own web- page for setup and display of all measurement

tenna/feedline characteristics to identify and alarm on critical changes. With the data logging function, long term performance monitoring can be used to identify performance changes before they nega- tively impact system performance – enabling a preventative maintenance team to address prob- lems before they occur. Solutions are available for the entire range of Land Mobile Radio frequencies from 140 MHz to 960 MHz. Features include: • Data logging. • Slim 1RU package. • Built-in web server providing SNMP messaging. • Standard push-to-talk (PTT) compatibility.

parameters. This enables access to the system from any computer, tablet or phone on the network, limited only by the network’s security. The webpage displays all measurements and allows for alarms to be set for failure conditions, such as high or low power or poor antenna VSWR. The unit includes software and hard contact alarms and can also be configured to send an email alert to an emergency condition. Also standard is Data Logging, which takes reliability one step further by enabling users to see degraded performance before it becomes an emergency. The Channel Power Monitor continuously moni- tors radio performance, combiner loss and an-

• Full control of alarm and data logging settings. • 16 channels with expansion modules to cover the largest radio systems. • Software and hard contact alarms.

Enquiries: +27 (0)10 595 1821

TOTAL PLUG-AND- PLAY SOLUTION FOR CONDITION MONITORING OF EQUIPMENT

T he FAG SmartQB, distributed locally by Bearings International (BI), is a ready-to- use, preconfigured condition monitoring system for electric motors, fans, compressors, and gearboxes. The system is ideal for industries such as cement, paper, steel, water management, machinery, and plant engineering. Commissioning takes five minutes, and re- quires no special skills or understanding of vi- bration diagnosis. Clearly-understood, plain-text messages relating to the causes of any possible defects are generated on the touch-screen dis- play when changes occur in the condition of the equipment. The system allows for 24/7 monitoring for maximum plant availability and, with up to six sen- sors, is preconfigured for the capture of various anomalies. Output of five error states is possible, namely bearing damage, unbalance, friction/cavi- tation, temperature increases and basic variations. Additional features include a live display of current values, trend pattern and damage devel- opment, an RJ45 Ethernet interface for service technicians, and static information regarding op- erating hours, defect frequency (yesterday/today/ overall), maximum values, and mean values since the last evaluation. FAG is a flagship brand for BI, which focuses on top-quality products from leading international manufacturers involved in the industrial aftermar- ket, OEM, manufacturing, and mining sectors. “BI’s premium products offer customers the best cost- to-performance ratio. Our customers can also count on leading technical support and service,” says product manager Coenie van Deventer. “We recognise the constraints of high energy prices, low productivity, skills shortages, and a highly-competitive economic environment. BI’s and Schaeffler’s engineering and reliability divi- sions offer a highly-flexible range of predictive, planned, and breakdown maintenance services,” van Deventer adds. Engineering services include application design, evaluation, and optimisation.

Enquiries: +27 (0)11 899 0000

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JANUARY 2018

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER

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ENCLOSED SWITCHES FOR RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL INSTALLATIONS T hanks to high technical reliability and a mod- ern look, ABB ONE20 enclosed switches are an ideal fit for commercial and residential All enclosed switches are thoroughly tested and fulfil the demands of DIN EN ISO 9001 and 14001, as well as BS OHSAS 18001. • Each product is factory tested and approved be- fore it is shipped.

MAJOR TECH’S MOST POPULAR PSC TESTERS

• Quick and reliable installation owing to sim- ple and smart construction and compression glands, which are included with every purchase. The ONE20 will deliver reliable performance for any switching application.

ONE20 switches were designed with three things in mind: simplicity (of installation), durability and reli- ability, and offer the following benefits: • Reliable performance in all indoor and outdoor environments owing to a durable and water- resistant (IP67) enclosure, UV resistant material and testing at a temperature of -30°C. • They have a built-in feature to stop mechanical breakage.

installations. The enclosed switches can be used as main switches or for local isolation in various appli- cations, such as HVAC, residential water pumps, and heat pumps or commercial lighting. With a long history in enclosed switches (since the 1960s) and extensive overall experience and know-how in electrical applications, ABB factories apply the most advanced production process to as- sure high quality products at all times.

Enquiries: +27 (0)10 202 6995 or abb.com/low- voltage

HANDLE DESIGNED FOR COMFORT FELO ERGONIC handles have been applied to the company’s electrical range of screw drivers, making them the first handles that adapt to the user´s hand to offer a smooth, seamless handle for maximum comfort and no strain. All handles are anti-roll, with a supporting hole for additional leverage and easy hanging. The blade or shafts are manufactured from chrome-molybdenum-vanadium and the handles have the steel screw symbols on the top handle of the cap; all are GS tested for safety, covering the full model range and the various lengths; all have the impact proof handle with the superior core for torque, which exceeds DIN and ISO requirements by up to 100%; and the full range has black coated tips for a perfect precision fit and up to ac 1000 V protection. The impact proof handle core is coated with elastic, scratch resistant elastomer containing cells of highly flexible plastics. A hexagon bolster on the bottom of the handle allows contractors to use a spanner for more torque. Felo Electrical Ergonic units come with the 15-year warranty and are available from Vermont Sales. MAJOR TECH’S K4140 rugged Loop and PSC Tester with extra functionality and speed has been designed to meet the need for a more pro- ductive test tool. “The K4140 Loop/PSC tester is designed to save time and produce high-quality results,” says Major Tech’s Werner Grobbelaar. The meter of- fers anti-trip technology for trip-free loop test- ing on all residual-current devices (RCDs) rated 30 mA and above. The dual display and two wire connection allows for simultaneous measure- ments, such as loop and Prospective Short-circuit Current (PSC)/Prospective Fault Current (PFC) testing, and measures phase rotation as well as voltage and frequency. The meter comes with a lock-down test button for ‘hands free’ testing with auto-start operation, and two wire connection for Loop L-L, L-N and PSC. The instrument is custom microprocessor controlled for high accuracy and reliability. It has three LEDs for checking correct wiring status and features 25 A loop measurement at 20 Ω and loop impedance ranges of 20/200/2000 Ω . “ The K4118 performs a direct readout of PSC testing and is supplied with distribution leads,” says Grobbelaar. The unit comes with an automatic lock-out test button if the test resister overheats, and features an easy-to-read LCD display and front panel key- board with backlight for visibility in dark places. The instruments have an IP54 water and dust proof rating, a lifetime warranty and carry the IEC61010-1 CAT III 300V standard of approval. The K4140 comes standard with a set of fused safety test leads and additional croc clips, a soft carry case with shoulder strap and a quick refer- ence guide. Enquiries: +27 (0)11 872-5500 / sales@major-tech.com

Enquiries: +27 (0)11 314 7711

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER

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ELECTROBASE RECOGNISES TOP SUPPLIERS FOR 2017 ELECTROBASE, the largest group of inde- pendent electrical wholesalers in Southern Africa, held its 18 th annual Supplier of the Year Awards dinner on Friday 10 Novem- ber at Emperors Palace. The prestigious event was attended by wholesalers and suppliers from around the country and Zimbabwe, who took the opportunity to network, catch up with industry news and have some fun.

Ian Greyling presents a Gold Award to Andre le Roux of Crabtree. The company also received the Award for ‘Most Improved Supplier ’ .

“Emperors Palace turned out to be a wonderful venue,” said Donne van Eeden, CEO of Electrobase and Enerji Electrical, “and what made it more special was the fact that Electrobase held its first AGM there 18 years ago”. Many of the wholesaler’s buyers also attended the 2017 dinner and they were invited to join a tour of the facilities of some of Electrobase’s Johannesburg- based suppliers during the course of the day, prior to the evening event. This proved to be a great success as many of the buy- ers had not seen the impressive facilities of the suppliers. Donne congratulated all the suppliers on their awards, with a special mention to Major Tech, which celebrated its 25 th anni- versary earlier this year, and which received the award for overall Supplier of the Year. Silver Awards went to Eurolux, Kwikot- Electrolux and LEDVANCE while Gold Awards went to Brightstar Lighting, Crab- tree, Enerji Electrical, Hellermann Tyton, Major Tech, Radiant, Stone Stamcor and Waco. Crabtree was also awarded the ‘Most Improved Supplier’ award.

Ian Greyling with Claude Middleton of Hellermann Tyton accepting a Gold Award.

Major Tech won the coveted ‘Supplier of the Year 2017’ Award. Seen here from left to right are Werner Grobbelaar, Wayne Ternent, Howard Earley, Ian Greyling (Electrobase Chairman), Donne van Eeden (Electrobase CEO) and Pat Shaw (CEO Major Tech).

Ian Greyling with Jaco Coetzee who accepts a Gold Award for Waco.

Wayne Ternent accepts a Gold Award for Major Tech from Ian Greyling.

Radiant's Monique Badenhorst accepts a Gold Award from Ian Greyling.

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LEDVANCE ’ s Chanz Singh accepts a Silver Award from Ian Greyling.

Mark Talbot accepts a Gold Award for Stone Stamcor from Ian Greyling.

Luddy Cavalho (Kwikot Electrolux) accepts a Silver Award from Ian Greyling.

“Emperors Palace turned out to be a wonderful venue,” said Donne van Eeden, CEO of Electrobase and Enerji Electrical.

TURNKEY SOLUTIONS FOR FIRE PROTECTION THE CENTA GROUP’S turnkey solutions for fire protec- tion and prevention in warehousing and storage facilities include fire system selection, design layout, installation and maintenance services that are custom-designed to suit specific environments and exact requirements. “The challenges of protecting warehouses from fire can be complex, depending on the fire load of the warehousing facility, coupled with the fire risk of goods stored in the building,” says Duncan Boyes, chairman of the Centa Group. “Although a sprinkler system is often considered sufficient to protect a warehouse and its contents, other supplementary fire systems, including electronic fire detection and suppression systems are necessary. Passive Fire Protection (PFP) like fire doors and retardants, grease ducts, fire stops and closures, as well as specialised cable coatings, also form an integral part of fire protection and safety in warehousing. recommended for large installations, and conventional systems for smaller buildings where zones can be easily identified. Addressable systems consist of a series of fire de- tectors and devices connected to a main control panel. Each device has a location so if a fire starts, the detector that is triggered quickly identifies its source. A conven- tional system differentiates between zones and, in the event of a fire, indicates where the fire source is within the zone. Centa’s water fire-fighting systems for warehousing applications include fire sprinkler and water reticulation systems. The fire sprinkler system, designed to prevent a fire from spreading, is an automatic fire protection measure, consisting of a water supply system that pro- vides adequate pressure and flow rate to a water distri- bution piping system. Sprinklers are installed at ceiling level and are connected to a reliable water source. The system automatically activates when the heat from a fire causes a glass component in the sprinkler head to fail, thereby releasing water. PFP systems are installed in warehouse and storage areas to contain a fire and to Centa’s team of technical experts is committed to providing dependable fire protection systems that will adequately protect people’s lives and property in the event of a fire. The company supplies two types of fire detection systems – addressable systems, which are

Eurolux’s Anthony Lloyd accepts a Silver Award from Ian Greyling.

slow down the spread of flames from the point of igni- tion. It is critical these systems comply with quality and safety specifications. The Centa Group, established over 20 years ago, is the only fire company in South Africa to locally manu- facture a range of fire extinguishers and hose reels. This attribute is enhanced by accreditation from various standards authorities, including SABS and ISO 9001: 2015 certification, SAQCC-Fire.

Donne van Eeden of Enerji Electrical received a Gold Award.

Enquiries: +27 (0)31 569 1175

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER

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CENTRAL SUPPORT SYSTEMS 21 YEARS AND GROWING

WEARABLE TOOLS FOR THE EXPECTED AND UNEXPECTED

CENTRAL SUPPORT SYSTEMS commenced trading in April 1996. The start-up began with three members of staff, a small premises and a Bakkie. Through persistent hard work and excellent customer service, the company has grown steadily. CSS now boasts a staff complement of in excess of 80 people and a fleet of 15 vehicles of various capacities. The company has also recently moved to a newly renovated 10 000 m2 premises in Robertsham, Johannesburg South. CSS’s operational capacity has grown to the extent that it now supplies contractors performing extremely large projects, such as Soccer City, Discovery Head Office, Medupi Power Station and The Mall of Africa to name a few. Last month CSS celebrated its 21st birthday with a year-end party at its new premises. Many guests joined in the festivities and enjoyed a delightful afternoon of good food, good company and good fun. Sales director Faruk Cassim and managing director Colin Hinton took the opportunity to thank their clients for loyal support over the past 21 years, and as- sured their guests of continued service for years to come. “At CSS we are focused on our customers who are never taken for granted; they are the life blood of the company,” said Faruk. “We strive always to improve customer service by keeping abreast of industry devel- opments, and emphasising good old-fashioned service”. Colin thanked guests for their valued support over the years. He emphasised his gratitude for their support in the past few years particularly, since business conditions have been tough during this time. “CSS is lucky to have such a loyal and consistent customer base,” said Colin. “The ethos of putting the customer first is a core value at CSS. Any customer of ours should walk away from any dealing with any of our staff members fully satisfied,” he concluded. Central Support Systems’ management and staff sincerely thank all their customers for their valued support over the past 21 years, and assure all customers of their commitment to service excellence for years to come.

LEATHERMAN TOOL GROUP has launched its long- awaited TREAD™ Tempo, a watch-meets-multitool to have on hand for the expected and unexpected. Known for its ingeniously designed multi-purpose tools, Leatherman is further expanding its collection of wearable tools with the TREAD™ LT which is 20 percent narrower and 10 percent lighter than the original TREAD. Fans have been clamouring for both the watch and a smaller version of the original TREAD which first hit the market in fall 2015 as the world’s first wearable tool. “The idea for the TREAD originated on a trip to Dis- neyland with my family,” said Ben Rivera, president and CEO of Leatherman Tool Group, Inc. “I was stopped at the gate by security for carrying my Skeletool, which has a blade. I was unwilling to give it up, so I took it all the way back to my hotel room and spent the rest of our trip thinking up ways to carry a multi-tool with me that would be accepted by security.” When he returned from his trip, Rivera, who began his tenure at Leatherman Tool Group in 1991 as an en- gineer, began by wearing a bike chain bracelet to see how it would feel. As the design concept took shape, he brought his idea to the engineers at Leatherman who helped fast track his plans. Leatherman had intended to launch the TREAD with a time piece, but the engi- neering team had to go back to the drawing board to ensure the watch could withstand the torque placed on the link tools in the band. During November 2017, Leatherman delivered on time with the TREAD TEMPO. This watch combines a TREAD band with interchangeable multiple tools in each 17-4 stainless steel link with a premium, Swiss- made timepiece with precision quartz movement. The timepiece shows the time and date and has a rota- tion unidirectional diver’s bezel, glow-in-the-dark hour markers and hands (stainless only). A shock resistant sapphire crystal ensures scratch resistance for heavy duty wear, and the curved watch limits reflection and increases outdoor visibility. The watchband comes with six links with the following tools: 3/32” Screwdriver, 6 mm Hex Drive, 4 mm Hex Drive, #3 Square Drive, #1 Square Drive, Pozi-Driv #3. Three more interchange- able links are included: 8 mm Box Wrench, Pozi-Driv #2, and 11 mm Box Wrench. It is water resistant up to 200 metres, TSA-friendly, and adjustable both in link choices and wristband size in ¼” and ½” increments. The clasp can also adjust by 1/8 ”. It comes in stainless steel and black and with a five-year battery warranty, two- year movement warranty, 25-year band warranty. It is ideal for job sites or through airport security. The TREAD LT is 20% lighter and smaller than the original TREAD and comes with the following link tools: 3/32” Screwdriver, Cutting Hook, 6 mm Hex Drive, 4 mmHex Drive, 8 mm Box Wrench, #3 Square Drive, #1 Square Drive, Pozi-Driv #2 and 11 mm Box Wrench. It is also TSA-friendly and comes in stainless steel and black. NIGERIA’S POWER NEEDS SOLVED BY MOBILE PHONES T he Lumos Mobile Electricity Service recently deployed its 60 000 th Y’ello Box, an at-home solar electricity device that lets users gain ac- cess to reliable electricity at an affordable price. The Lumos service combines the power of the sun and a MTN mobile phone to bring a new type of power to Ni- geria and this significant milestone means more than 300 000 people across Nigeria are benefitting from affordable, reliable, clean electricity. Lumos Mobile Electricity Service operates in part- nership with MTN. Once MTN customers have joined the service, they pay their monthly subscription fee for power from MTN’s mobile phones air account by tex- ting a simple code. There’s no need for mobile money, bank accounts or expensive machines. “The mobile revolution has transformed our need for power, and the mobile electricity service is going to be a significant part of the answer,” said Yuri Tsitrinbaum, CEO of Lumos Nigeria. “The Nigerian economy will thrive if we give people the power they need to succeed. ”

In all TREAD products, each complex link is metal injec- tion moulded for strength and intensity. The bands are crafted to be fully customisable with slotted fasteners, so the user can rearrange links, add new ones, or adjust for wrist size to ¼ inch. Even the clasp is functional with a bottle opener and #2 square drive. As with all Leatherman products, both new TREAD styles come with a 25-year warranty.

Enquiries: www.leatherman.co.za

Enquiries: +27 (0) 10 300 5600

Enquiries: www.Lumos-Global.com

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JANUARY 2018

EARTHING, LIGHTNING AND SURGE PROTECTION

BUYER'S GUIDE

10

MANUFACTURERS

CLAMPS AND SADDLES

CONTACTS

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Innopro Ian McKechnie

ACDC Dynamics Mains filter, single-phase 250V up to 30A, three-phase 400V up to 30A ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of masts/power supply filtering Atlas Group Available on request Bellco Range of power supply filtering Electrahertz Full range of power supply filtering Innopro Full range of masts and power supply filtering JDL Electric Full range of masts Lighting Protection Concepts Full range of masts and power supply filtering Voltex LSis Range of power supply filtering MAINS PROTECTION

Specialised Electrical Accessories Full range of clamps and saddles Stone-Stamcor Full range of Burndy Grounding Products Hyground Strutfast Ellis patents cable cleats and clamps Voltex Full range of clamps and saddles Waco Full range of clamps and saddles CONDUCTORS (ALUMINIUM AND/OR COPPER) Aberdare Cables Bare earth copper conductors ACDC Dynamics Full range of conductors ACTOM Electrical Products Bare copper earth wires ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of conductors Atlas Group Full range available on request Bellco Full range of conductors Electrahertz Full range of conductors JDL Electric Full range of conductors Lighting Protection Concepts Full range of conductors Low Voltage Switchboards Copper conductors Magnet Electrical Supplies Full range of conductors South Ocean Electric Wire Company Full range of conductors Stone-Stamcor Lugs and ferrules suitable for aluminium and copper conductors Versalec Full range of conductors Voltex Full range of conductors Waco Full range of conductors EXOTHERMIC WELDING ACTOM Electrical Products Equipment for exothermic welding ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of exothermic welding equipment Atlas Group Full range available on request Bellco Full range of exothermic welding equipment Electrahertz Full range of exothermic welding equipment JDL Electric Full range of exothermic welding equipment Lightning Protection Concepts Full range of exothermic welding equipment Voltex Full range of exothermic welding equipment EARTH ELECTRODE / EARTH RODS ACDC Dynamics Earth rods and accessories ACTOM Electrical Products Full range of earth electrodes, earth rods ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of earth electrodes, earth rods Atlas Group Full range available on request Bellco Full range of earth electrodes, earth rods Citilec Full range of earth electrodes, earth rods Electrahertz Full range of earth electrodes, earth rods Innopro Full range of earth electrodes JDL Electric Full range of earth electrodes and earth rods Lightning Protection Concepts Full range of earth electrodes and earth rods Voltex Full range of earth electrodes and earth rods Waco Full range of earth electrodes, earth rods

ABB South Africa Aberdare Cables ACDC Dynamics Banding and Identification Solutions SA Bellco Brady SA CBI-electric: low voltage Crabtree Electrical Accessories Eaton Electric SA Genlux Lighting HellermannTyton Legrand Lightning Protection Concepts Low Voltage Switchboards Newelec Phambili Schneider Electric South Ocean Electric Wire Company Stone-Stamcor Strutfast Surge Technology Versalec Voltex Voltex MV/LV Solutions Voltex LSis Waco DISTRIBUTORS ACDC Dynamics ACTOM Electrical Products ARB Electrical Wholesalers Atlas Group Banding and Identification Solutions SA Bellco Brady SA Cable Croc Cabstrut Citilec Crabtree Electrical Accessories Eaton Electric SA Electrahertz Genlux Lighting Innopro JDL Electric Magnet Electrical Supplies Major Tech MCE Electric Newelec Phambili Pretoria Motor Control Gear Products (PMCG) Radiant Group Schneider Electric Stone-Stamcor Versalec Voltex Voltex LSis Waco CONTACTS Aberdare Cables Jyoshtie Dhunes ACDC Dynamics Sales ACTOM Electrical Products Russel Ramsden ARB Electrical Wholesalers Sales Atlas Group Annie Storar/Imran Gaffoor Banding and Identification Solutions SA Rosa Dos Remendos Bellco Shiraj Wentzel Brady SA ABB South Africa Customer contact centre

JDL Electric Ashveer Lalla Legrand Johan Bosch Lightning Protection Concepts Trevor Manas Low Voltage Switchboards Rudi Barker Magnet Electrical Supplies Kevin Govender Major Tech Werner Grobbelaar MCE Electric Sales Newelec Luc Dutrieux

Phambili Steve Lea Pretoria Motor Control Gear Products (PMCG) Hannes Swartz/John Vorster

Radiant Group Alfred Weldon Schneider Electric Sales South Ocean Electric Wire Company Yasmin Mahomed Stone-Stamcor Mark Talbot Strutfast Tony Kinsella Surge Technology Paul van As Versalec Roland Fry Voltex

ABB South Africa Full range of mains protection devices ACDC Dynamics Mains Protection ACTOM Electrical Products Full range of surge protection products ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of mains protection products Atlas Group Full range available on reqest Bellco Full range of mains protection devices CBI-electric : low voltage Full range of mains protection devices Electrahertz Full range of mains protection devices Innopro Full range of mains protection units JDL Electric Full range of mains protection units Legrand Full range of mains protection units Lightning Protection Concepts Full range of mains protection units Low Voltage Switchboards Full range of mains protection units Magnet Electrical Supplies Full range of mains protection units Major Tech Full range of mains protection units MCE Electric

Hugh Ward Voltex LSis Gary Paterson Waco Industries Jaco Coetzee AIR TERMINATION SYSTEMS /DOWN CONDUCTOR SYSTEMS ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of air termination systems/down conductor systems Atlas Group Available on request Bellco Full range of air termination systems/down conductor systems Electrahertz Full range of air termination systems/down conductor systems Innopro Full range of air termination and down conductor systems JDL Electric Full range of air termination systems/down conductor systems Lightning Protection Concepts Full range of air termination systems/down conductor systems Voltex Full range of air termination systems/down conductor systems Waco Full range of air termination systems/down conductor systems CLAMPS AND SADDLES PVC, steel and copper in various sizes, Banding and Identification Solutions SA and Stainless steel buckles, strapping and clamps Banding and Identification Solutions SA Stainless steel buckles, strapping and clamps Bellco Full range of clamps and saddles Cabstrut Full range of clamps and saddles Citilec Full range of clamps and saddles Electrahertz Full range of clamps and saddles JDL Electric ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of clamps and saddles Atlas Group

Onesto dedicated socket mains protection; Onesto circuit breakers and isolators; Schenker circuit breakers, 12 mm circuit breakers; Schenker isolators; Hyundai MCCBs and ACBs Schneider Electric Full range of mains protection devices Surge Technology Dehn & Saltek and Copa Voltex Full range of mains protection Voltex LSis Full range of mains protection devices Waco Full range of mains protection devices TELECOMS/DATA PROTECTION ACDC Dynamics Telecoms/data protection Eaton Electric SA Full range of protection devices for telecoms and data protection Electrahertz Full range of protection devices for telecoms and data protection Innopro Full range of telecom and data protection units JDL Electric Full range of telecom and data protection units Legrand Full range of telecom and data protection units Lightning Protection Concepts Full range of telecom and data protection units MCE Electric Onesto dedicated socket data protection; Onesto circuit breakers and isolators; Schenker circuit breakers and isolators; Hyundai MCCBs and ACBs Surge Technology Dehn, Saltek and Copa

Morné Louw Cable Croc Lex Harvey Cabstrut Juanita Kanagan CBI-electric: low voltage Jaco Viljoen Citilec Jeff Forman Crabtree Electrical Accessories Sales Eaton Electric SA Sumaya Abdool Electrahertz Frank Proude (Pta) Peet Lourens (Jhb) HellermannTyton Ingrid Nicolaus

Full range of clamps and saddles Lightning Protection Concepts Full range of clamps and saddles Magnet Electrical Supplies Full range of clamps and saddles Radiant Group Full range of clamps and saddles

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JANUARY 2018

BUYER'S GUIDE

EARTHING, LIGHTNING AND SURGE PROTECTION

11

EARTH LEAKAGE

MV SURGE PROTECTION

ACDC Dynamics Plug-in types for homes and small businesses; plug-in tops with surge protection; Soule lightning and surge protection ACTOM Electrical Products Full range of surge protection devices ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of surge protection devices Atlas Group Full range available on request Bellco Full range of surge protection devices Eaton Electric SA Full range of surge protection devices Electrahertz Full range of surge protection devices JDL Electric Full range of surge protection devices Legrand

ABB South Africa Full range of domestic and industrial earth leakage protection devices ACDC Dynamics Earth leakage ACTOM Electrical Products Full range of earth leakage protection devices ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of earth leakage protection products Atlas Group Various brands available on request Bellco Full range of earth leakage devices Crabtree Electrical Accessories Crabtree RCCB Eaton Electric SA Full range of earth leakage devices Electrahertz Full range of earth leakage devices HellermannTyton Instruments for testing earth leakage such as TELEO1L, T4137, TEL 11, TEL110LED and TELITLB Innopro Full range of earth leakage protection JDL Electric Full range of earth leakage protection Legrand Lexic DPX; Lexic 4ELCB Magnet Electrical Supplies Full range of earth leakage protection Major Tech 25 A, 40 A and 63 A double- and four-pole earth leakage MCE Electric Onesto earth leakages; Schenker earth leakages Pretoria Motor Control Gear Products (PMCG) Full range of earth leakage devices Schneider Electric Full range of earth leakage devices Voltex Full range of earth leakage products Voltex LSis Full range of earth leakage devices Waco Full range of earth leakage devices POWER SUPPLY FILTERING

+27 (0) 10 202 3300

+27 (0) 11 874 7600

Lexic surge protection devices Magnet Electrical Supplies Full range of MV surge protection devices MCE Electric Onesto surge arresters; Schenker surge arresters Phambili Full range of surge protection devices Surge Technology Dehn and Tridelta Voltex Full range of surge protection devices Voltex LSis Full range of surge protection devices Waco Full range of surge protection devices CONSTANT V TRANSFORMERS

+27 (0) 11 872 5500

Atlas Group Full range available on request Bellco Range of constant V transformers Electrahertz Range of constant V transformers JDL Electric Range of constant V transformers Low Voltage Switchboards Full range of constant V transformers Magnet Electrical Supplies Constant V transformers Radiant Group Constant V transformers Voltex Full range of constant V transformers Voltex LSis Full range of constant V transformers Waco Full range of constant V transformers OTHER

+27 (0) 11 683 0641

ACDC Dynamics Power supply filtering ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of power supply filtering Bellco Power supply filtering Electrahertz Full range of power supply filtering Impact Power Innovations Power supply filtering JDL Electric Full range of power supply filtering Lightning Protection Concepts Full range of power supply filtering Low Voltage Switchboards Full range of power supply filtering Voltex Power supply filtering Voltex LSis Power supply filtering Waco Power supply filtering ISOLATION TRANSFORMERS ACDC Dynamics Range of isolation transformers ARB Electrical Wholesalers Range of isolation transformers Atlas Group Full range available on request Bellco Full range of isolation transformers Electrahertz Isolation transformers JDL Electric Isolation transformers Low Voltage Switchboards Full range of isolation transformers Magnet Electrical Supplies Range of isolation transformers Voltex Full range of isolation transformers Voltex LSis Full range of isolation transformers Waco Full range of isolation transformers

+27 (0) 11 452 1415

Banding and Identification Solutions SA Stainless steel cable ties and identification systems Cabstrut Cable ladders, cable trays, cable trunking, wire mesh, cable support systems, cable clips and strut Citilec Vision lighting – energy saving and LED HellermannTyton Various tool such as 1000V insulated tools with VDE approval Lightning Protection Concepts A wide range of lightining design and protection solutions, lightning protection training courses as well as ELPA accreditation Major Tech Earth resistance testers; earth resistivity meter; earth leakage testers up to 550 V; Earth clamp meters; earth leakage data loggers; leakage clamp meter Stone Stamcor Connectors for earthing

+27 (0) 11 879 2000

+27 (0) 83 377 2844

+27 (0) 11 704 1487

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JANUARY 2018

EARTHING, LIGHTNING AND SURGE PROTECTION

12

ELPA KEEPS UP ITS CRACKING PACE AS 2018 BEGINS

A s this new year begins, the Earthing and Lighting Protection Association (ELPA) is only just over six months old, having been officially established in June 2017 after two years of hard work by lightning protection industry ex- perts from around the country. However, in this short space of time, the new umbrella body has already notched up a number of achievements in the lighting protection industry, and has no plans to slow down. This is according to ELPA national director Trevor Manas, who notes that ELPA’s next focus will be on the launch of the surge protection installers’ accreditations this month. He clarifies, “ELPA aims to assist with providing industry accreditations, certification, benchmarks for quality of design and installation, as well as information and education on lightning safety. To this end, we have already held two successful sets of certification exams for lightning protection installers, and will now be introducing accreditations for electricians who carry out surge protection installations. The surge protection installers’ accreditation programme will cover the proper selection, coordination and installation of surge protection devices to power supply systems, and we believe that electricians will gain extremely valuable guidance in this part of their scope of works.” Other certification exams will follow in the first quarter of 2018, and are linked to the recent launch of the ELPA Certificates of Compliance (COC) pro- gramme in late 2017. Manas explains, “The COC programme is aimed at ELPA-accredited designers, installers and in- spectors of lighting protection systems (LPSes). It entails the keeping of a register of designers and installers, as well as the inspectorate whose mem-

bers check the work being done by the installers. To this end, the next round of lightning protection installation certification exams will take place at the end of January, marking the third such set of exams since August 2017. “In addition, we are also launching our first design- ers’ accreditations in January, noting that the actual science of lighting protection really comes together in the lightning protection design. The designers’ course will follow a modular process: there are five parts to each module, and each module will take a month to complete. We will also hold our first course for testers/assessors within the first quarter of the year. “Further, in a bid to accommodate people from all around South Africa, we are introducing online assessments for some of our courses, starting with the installation accreditation, which currently takes the form of a 90-minute written exam, followed by a face to face interview with the examiners while still on-site. We are now offering candidates an on- line examination, and then carrying out Skype in- terviews with them after they have taken the exam. In this way, we can accommodate the substantial number of candidates from around South Africa who want to take our ELPA installation exam.” Over and above the LPS certification exams for designers, installers and inspectors, ELPA plans to spread its net wider still. Manas clarifies, “In order for members to maintain their membership, we will also be implementing a CPD programme. We envisage an online element here too, and are ex- ploring the use of webinars as a platform for the necessary learning to take place, to accommodate people’s busy working lives and save on costs. “ELPA is also offering electrical engineers a 50 percent discount on a 2-point CPD accred-

Manas concludes, “It is tremendously satisfy- ing to see ELPA, while technically still in its infancy as such a newly established organisation, already moving so quickly in our quest to achieve certainty through certification and compliance. I believe that, in the pursuit of becoming the recognised National Professional Body for earthing and lightning pro- tection, it bodes well for the rest of 2018 that we are getting off to such a solid start.” ELPA is supported by various institutions such as Wits University, the Electrical Contractors Associa- tion of South Africa (ECA) and the Department of Labour.

ited lightning protection seminar when they join ELPA in January or February 2018. This would be extremely valuable to all electrical engineers, as lightning protection is not a subject included in an electrical engineering degree and is nor- mally only offered as part of a post-graduate high voltage study programme. We therefore see this as a great value-add for our electrical engineers to be able to have access to enor- mously valuable and highly pertinent informa- tion about lightning protection – especially bearing in mind that South Africa’s lighting flash index per square kilometre is extremely high in many parts of the country when compared to global averages.”

For more information, visit www.elpasa.org.za.