Sparks Electrical News July 2019

JULY 2019

E L E C T R I C A L N E W S www.sparkselectricalnewsmagazine.co.za

REGULARS: CONTRACTORS’ CORNER | BUYERS' GUIDE : CABLES AND CABLE ACCESSORIES | FEATURES : CABLES AND CABLE ACCESSORIES | STANDBY AND EMERGENCY POWER | LIGHTING | INDUSTRY 4.0

THE RISE OF A NEW EMPIRE?

underestimate how much goes into manufacturing. “But you learn, you pay your school fees! I’m only 31 so I have been through the mill from small business to bigger business, to manufacturing and distributing, and am now back to my roots as an electrical wholesaler.” “Business is simple – people make it complicated,” he laughs. “You’ve got to look for a demand, see an opportunity, take it with both hands and run with it, which is very similar to what we have done with Empire Electrical. We saw an opportunity in the market with the collapse of JDL; it was very unfortunate that they closed down but there’s an opportunity for businesses like myself to come in.” The company has a total staff complement of 21 and was experienced a successful first few months of trading. “There are challenges, as some suppliers are understandably wary of opening up an account, but we have managed to open accounts with the majority of major suppliers and I urge suppliers to walk the mile with the Empire team and use us as an avenue to push their brands into the market. We would welcome them to come in and discuss over a cup of coffee how can we work together to build a mutually beneficial, long term-relationship. What I have learnt from the past is that I don’t purchase on a monthly basis – I purchase weekly. Stock that is on my shelves needs to move because that ties up cash flow. Another challenge is many customers are loyal to current suppliers until they see what service we have to offer, and that is what makes us different,” he explains. Lalla personally greets all customers and without knowing, you would think he was simply a staff member. “I try to lead by example – I don’t have my own office – and am happy to serve behind the counter or even hand out flyers at robots on the weekend.” The store is open from 6:45 am until 5 pm, Monday to Friday as well as 8 am-1 pm on Saturday. “We understand that for customers their time is money – they have staff on site, and by the time they leave to get to a wholesaler and back, that’s two hours gone. With this in mind, we deliver anywhere in Johannesburg free of charge and offer onsite credit card payments,” he notes. The aim is that when customers walk in Empire Electrical will have every consumable they might need and, where we do not have stock, we will source it.” Lalla’s goal is to open small express stores in township areas in six months’ time. “People travel 50 km just to get some conduit or a light bulb, so if we can situate

Ashveer Lalla, founder of Empire Electrical Wholesalers

L ast issue’s article on the fall of JDL Electric and its group of companies struck a chord with many of our readers, and we received numerous emails and comments on social media remarking on the frankness of former CEO Lee Kritzinger. There were also helpful opinions on the lessons which companies, both in the electrical industry and further afield, could learn from what transpired. Ashveer Lalla, a former sales manager at JDL, and a stalwart of the electrical industry despite being just 31, has seized the opportunity to supply Midrand and surrounding areas by opening Empire Electrical Wholesalers at Allandale Park on the corner of Le Roux Avenue and Morkels Close on May 2 nd of this year. “When JDL closed, a number of the employees contacted me as they knew I was still involved in the industry,” he explains. “I suggested we could look at it in two ways; I could help to get them interviews or we could take the opportunity and turn the negative into a positive.” The company was formed. They moved into the building in April and started the arduous task of opening supplier accounts, setting up the shopfitting and stocking the shelves. Ten previous JDL employees now work for Empire Electrical Wholesalers. “We are the first 100% black youth owned (under 35) electrical wholesaler and cable distributor, and every employee in the company is a shareholder, regardless of title,” he says. Lalla may be young but he has been in the industry since the age of 14 when he worked every weekend and during school holidays at his family’s company, Voltsing Electrical, in the West Rand. “The electrical industry is in my blood! I learned much in those days and have always been intrigued by electrical components,” he says. So much so that he would open up many of the returned items simply to see how they worked internally. “After I finished school I started at the sales counter and within a year had overtaken all the other salespeople and taken the title of Salesman of the Year, overtaking those who had been with the company for a decade.” He then obtained experience in the rest of the business, spending time in finance, dispatch and receiving, and assisting to open branches in Durban and Deco Park. “Being in a family business, however, you hit a threshold, and for me it was stifling and I decided I wanted to learn more about the industry.” He joined Radiant Lighting in internal sales and again surpassed the other salespeople. “Radiant recognised me as an asset in the electrical division with Kevin French, my mentor, where I started off as a product manager for three years. Once Kevin retired I became the head of electrical and we grew that business from about R7 million annually to R74 million when I left.” From there he joined JDL before leaving in October 2018 to start a manufacturing plant for 4x2 and 4x4 wall boxes as well as trunking. Lalla also opened Empire Enterprise in 2012 as a business to import emergency lights. He notes that many people

CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER

2

ABB WINS LARGE POWER TRANSMISSION ORDER FROM CHINA’S STATE GRID ABB has won a large order to supply converter transformers and high- voltage equipment for an 800 kilovolt (kV), ultrahigh-voltage direct current (UHVDC) transmission link, owned by the State Grid Corpora- tion of China (SGCC), in China’s Shaanxi and Hubei provinces, in the North West and Central regions of the country.

Power Grids business. Converter transformers receive electricity from nearby power stations and increase their voltage to extremely high levels in order to transport it over long distances and with minimal losses. Near to the end consumer, similar transformers will decrease the voltage in order to ensure distribution to the local grid. High-voltage equipment includes breakers, which protect the grid from disruptive faults, and capacitor banks which improve the quality of the electricity supply, thus increasing the product lifespan and helping to reduce losses. At 8 000 MW transmission, the Shanbei-Wuhan link will be among the world’s most powerful and is an important step for SGCC in developing global UHVDC systems standards. They will interconnect the electrical grids of regions, countries and continents to efficiently transport clean power in large volumes over long distances.

The 1100 km long power transmission link will transport up to 8 000 megawatts (MW) of electricity, enough to meet the needs of around eight million people in China. The orders were booked in the first and second quarters of 2019. “The ultrahigh-voltage (UHV) transmission equipment from ABB is an important milestone in realising SGCC’s vision of building stronger and greener grids. The UHV super-grids will enable the reliable integration of ever more power sources from remote areas into the power grids of urban centres,” said Claudio Facchin, President of ABB’s

UHVDC utilises direct current (dc) electricity at extremely high voltages that can have as much as 40 percent lower losses than an equivalent conventional alternating current (ac) system. This means far less energy is wasted, more power reaches end users and carbon dioxide emissions come down. In this case, savings of up to 1,2 million tons of CO 2 emissions per year can be expected.

Enquiries: www.abb.com

TOOL BACKPACK DESIGNED FOR ELECTRICIANS

I t is very inefficient, not to mention frustrating, for maintenance professionals to have to go back and forth to the office stores to get additional tools because they cannot carry everything they need on site. Designed specifically for electricians, the Fluke Pack30 Professional Tool Backpack from Comtest makes it easy to organise, trans- port, and access all the tools needed for the day, including digital multimeters, clamps, tools and ac- cessories. The rugged backpack also protects tools – even on the dirtiest of work sites. For digital users, the Fluke Pack30 offers a way to carry all the nec- essary tools while keeping ‘hands free’ to use cell phones and tablets. The Fluke Pack30 features: • More than 30 pockets and pouches designed to hold a broad array of Fluke tools and acces- sories, as well as screwdrivers, pliers, tape rolls, and other hand tools. • Six main storage compartments for convenient organisation. • A special pocket for tablets and laptops 12 inches (30 cm) wide or smaller. • Storage for safety glasses, earplugs, cell phones and valuables. • Rugged, waterproof moulded bottom to protect tools and accessories from the elements. • The moulded base also holds the backpack up- right, keeping tools organised and within easy reach.

Contact Comtest for more information on the Fluke Pack30 Professional Tool Backpack.

Enquiries: +27 (0)10 595 1821

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JULY 2019

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER

3

PERSONALITY OF THE MONTH – WILLEM SCHMIDT

A FOCUS ON PROVIDING SOLUTIONS TO CUSTOMERS

Sparks: Have you won any awards? WS: The award that meant the most to me was for a first-time right design on an SPM which went from prototype phase into production without any further changes. The award itself was only a tracksuit, but it was a real achievement for always being hard on myself for constantly doing everything precisely! Sparks: Who has been your inspiration or have you had a mentor who has influenced your career? WS: Our high school electronics teacher, Jan Hattingh, who knew how to ‘motivate’ us to get the best possible results (in those days caning was common practice in schools). He had a contagious passion for electronics and was a brilliant teacher. Sparks: What, to your mind, is one of the biggest challenges facing the industry at this time? WS: Competing with cheap Chinese imports must be one of the biggest challenges for the distribution business. The key is to provide solutions to our customers which help them compete on quality and aftersales service on a product with similar or competitive pricing compared to imports. Sparks: What do you enjoy most about your job? WS: Seeing our customers succeed in a competitive industry with our product solutions. The other aspect of our role is that we get to learn so much about different types of industries and technologies. In lighting alone, for example, there are factors affecting horticulture, aquariums, humans, etc., and the scientific exposure in each field brings its own challenges. In a way, the workplace is also a hobby for me. Sparks: If you could ‘do it all again’, would you change anything? If so, what would that be? WS: I have very few regrets in life, and changing anything might have consequences that I may not like. I see my mistakes as building blocks that brought me to where I am today. Sparks: Would you advise a person leaving school to enter the electrical industry? And why? WS: On one hand there is a big part of the industry that is shrinking, but this also creates different challenges and opportunities. Humans will remain dependant on electricity and the young generation will be the ones to invent greener energy, better electricity storage and a mountain of other opportunities to explore. Our country has a real shortage in technical expertise and the opportunities in the electrical field are endless. Sparks: What is your advice to electrical contractors or electrical engineers? WS: Your reputation you are working on today will determine the success of your business tomorrow. One short-cut may cost you dearly in the long in the company. He has earned my respect with his work ethic and has managed to rebuild his life,” says Lalla. Regarding the future, he foresees a lot of change in the electrical industry. “I see it being more about service than price. I believe our president is going to make the right decisions for business in this country and am positive. I see the electrical industry innovating much more than it is now with solar, which should already be huge in South Africa, seeing good growth. As for his business, he notes that he has absorbed a lot from past experiences. “We are the link between contractor and supplier and if our link with suppliers is weak, that becomes a problem. With that said, we are only as good as our loyal suppliers.” He also believes that management in every company should value the input of the staff. “They are the people on the ground; managers should value their feedback,” he says. “Decisions should also be calculated. Many businesses don’t really need to move premises – it is almost an ego thing, to show people you are big. In these economic times you can’t afford to make one slip-up.” With a maturity beyond his years and a solid background in each facet of the industry, Lalla and his team are learning from the past mistakes of others to ensure that Empire Electrical is a success. THE RISE OF A NEW EMPIRE?

run. Choose your components carefully and do the job as if you only get one shot at doing it right.

Sparks: What is your favourite quote? WS: “If money makes you rich you are really poor.”

Sparks: Name three things on your ‘bucket list’ WS: To do another tour through China including Zhangjiajie, Jiuzhaigou, Danxia and Chengdu, visiting the Grand Canyon and hiking in Austrian Alps.

Enquiries: www.altronarrow.com

Willem Schmidt

WILLEM SCHMIDT, Product Manager at Altron Arrow (formerly Arrow Altech Distribution) has been involved in the electronics industry for 25 years, having started in R&D and then migrated to IT, data and VOIP prod- ucts. He has spent the past six years in electronic component distribution at Altron Arrow and believes that although South Africa has a shortage in technical expertise, the opportunities in the electrical field are endless. Sparks: Where were you educated? WS: I received my National Higher Diploma (T4) at Wits Technicon in 1993, and then furthered my studies by obtaining a CompTiA Network+ in 2008 and Project Management Embedded Knowledge in 2013. Sparks: How long have you been involved in the electrical industry? WS : I was in primary school when I knew that I wanted to study electronics and which subjects I would choose in high school to do so. I have always had a passion for electronics and was fortunate to receive a bursary from TMSA (Telephone Manufacturers of SA) to study Electrical Engineering after matric. Sparks: When and where did you start your career? WS: It was at TMSA where I was selected to join the research and development team and where I worked as a design engineer, mainly on analogue circuits for the first ten years of my career. Sparks: What are the greatest changes you have seen over the years? WS: The change to the digital era where products have been replaced by services and applications in a big way. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 ourselves in those areas we can service our customers better.” The idea is for every shareholder tomanage their own branch, including the purchases, sales, and employing people under them to run the branches. He wants to grow his staff and has been in talks with CETA for all employees to study and grow their knowledge base. Being a Level 1 BEEE contributor, the company is also placing an emphasis on tendering with government and parastatals. Lalla, as demonstrated by offering shares to all his staff, is a man who wants to build up the communities he works in, and ultimately the country. “Knowledge that is kept with me is not beneficial to the country, so I’m grooming everyone to become business owners in their own right.” His compassion came to fore following the devastating fire that ravaged Alexandra Township in December 2018. “My new factory was opposite Alex, and that evening I had worked until 2 am and as I was driving down London Road, I saw little kids and mothers sleeping on the pavements. I wondered what I, as a citizen, could do to help,” he explains. “The next day I went to Gift of the Givers and offered the factory as a shelter for women and children to sleep. They said this wouldn’t be possible from a security point of view but they did need a venue to distribute food. We had 500 people, who lost everything in the fire, come to be fed that day. One gentleman, who was left only with what he was wearing, asked if there was anything he could do, even wash cars, just to get some money to support his wife and child. Today, he is employed as our driver and is a shareholder Sparks: What major projects have you worked on and what is your greatest accomplishment? WS: A lot of what we do now is done in confidentiality with our customers and it would be inappropriate to single out any customer or project. My accomplishments are measured on growth in the product lines I am responsible for, namely lighting, optics, power supplies and frequency products.

Enquiries: ash@empireelectrical.co.za, www.empireelectrical.co.za or +27 (0)11 568 5292

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JULY 2019

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER

4

EATON REINFORCES BENEFITS OF RECENT ACQUISITION AT AFRICAN UTILITY WEEK EATON Africa’s recent acquisition of a controlling interest in Ulusoy Elektrik, a leading manufacturer of medium voltage electrical equipment based in Ankara, Turkey, is set to improve its ability to develop innovative power solutions on the African market. The company shared the various benefits of the acquisition with its customers during African Utility Week (AUW).

For example, the Ulusoy Elektrik portfolio includes gas-insu- lated MV switchgear (GIS) at higher voltage levels (36 kV) than Eaton currently offers in IEC markets, as well as transformers and cable accessories that are not part of Eaton’s portfolio. “The acquisition comes at a perfect time and through this great AUW platform, we can demonstrate modern, sustainable electrical power systems to utilities and municipalities involved in power generation, transmission and distribution. Industrial customers, such as mines and large-scale manufacturers in Africa will also benefit from a wider Eaton product range and increased flexibility in response to their power management requirements,” Kane said.

“The acquisition of Ulusoy Elektrik complements Eaton’s IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission standard) portfolio and strengthens our ability to provide tailored medium-voltage solutions,” said Seydou Kane, managing director, Eaton Electrical Africa. “In addition, it provides us with improved access to the medium-voltage market in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and adds a competitive, high-capability manufacturing base to our existing footprint.”

Enquiries: www.eaton.com

CONFERENCE TO SHOWHOW ENERGY WILL GENERATE JOBS, ECONOMIC GROWTH IN AFRICA N ow the official conference of South Africa’s Department of Energy, the flagship Africa Oil & Power (AOP) conference returns to Cape Town on9-11October,with 20+ petroleumand power ministers to speak on the theme #MakeEnergyWork. As the sole platform taking an integrated approach to oil, gas and power and economic growth, AOP drives tough conversations as Af- rica sees massive advancements in its power sector and moves to develop historic oil and gas discoveries. Under the #MakeEnergyWork theme, AOP 2019 will show how oil, gas and power can generate greater opportunities for the people of African nations and stimulate sustain- able economic growth. The electrification rate in Africa is 43 percent. Despite important advances made in rural areas, this highlights the opportunity that still remains to build and finance energy infrastructure to bring power to 600 million people. Renewable energy holds great promise, particularly in South Africa. The Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement programme has so far seen the procurement of over 100 IPP projects. In eight years the programme has created 38 701 full time jobs and contributed over $14 billion in private sector investment in South Africa, according to Minister of Energy Jeff Radebe. At this year’s 2019 conference and exhibition, Africa Oil & Power will welcome 1 200 delegates over three days, with more than 20 ministers and dignitaries to speak on themain stage. An expanded exhibition hall will host pavilions dedicated to South Africa’s energy sector, technology and digitization, renewable power, oil and gas services, and more. SOUTH AFRICA’S LARGEST EVER STATOR REWIND I n what has been described as the largest winding installation ever conducted in South Africa, Marthi- nusen & Coutts, a division of ACTOM (Pty) Ltd, has completed a major repair at Eskom’s Ingula pumped storage hydro-electric plant. The contract involved the complete rewind of a 373 MVA stator for one of Ingula’s four 14-pole motor generators. According to Richard Botton, managing director of Marthinusen & Coutts, the 342 MW unit is among the biggest in South Africa with a core diameter measuring 5 m, a core length of 3,2 m and a rotor mass of 500 tonnes. Marthinusen & Coutts carried out the work with a 14- man team, completing the after 100 days on site. Enquiries: www.aop2019.com

Enquiries: www.mandc.co.za

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JULY 2019

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER

5

WORKING KNOWLEDGE WITH TERRY MACKENZIE HOY

AN ATTEMPT TO EXPLAIN THREE PHASE POWER AND MOTORS

A bout two years ago I rather grandly wrote that the power drawn by a three phase motor rated at 380 V/400 V was about 1,5 times the rating in kW. I was corrected by a smart electrician in Namibia who pointed out it was more like two times the rating in kW which it is, since I had forgotten to allow for the inefficiency of the motor. All electricians know that there is such a thing as single phase power and that there is such a thing as three phase power and, correspondingly, there are such things as three phase motors and single phase motors. I have never heard of a two phase motor in use although they were used in the USA some time back. Single phase motors have a two wire and earth connection and the two wires create an alternating magnetic field in the field winding, which is located in the static frame of themotor, know as the stator. The rotor of themotor consists of a set of copper bars set into the rotor and connected to a circular bar at each end on the rotor. If you were to remove the rotor

pole motor has three pole pairs, one for each phase. Since the stator induces current in the rotor (also consisting of a squirrel cage winding as above), the rotor always is at a speed slightly less than the rational speed of the magnetic field –if the field is rotating at say, 1 500 rpm, then the rotor will be rotating at about 1480 rpm at full load. The equation for the predicted motor speed is 2 x supply frequency/ number of magnetic poles. Then, for example, for a 50 Hz four pole machine this is 2 x 50 x 60/4 = 1 500 rpm. In general, fan suppliers like to specify two pole machines since they are higher speed and smaller and cheaper and the fan costs much less. Pump suppliers prefer four pole machines to limit surges in the pipe lines. I see I have not really explained three phase power very well but dwelt on motors… But to explain three phase power without diagrams is difficult. So… why not check the internet for further information? There’s a cop out… but oh, much better.

to increase the effect of this. Sometimes the capacitor is in circuit and then cuts out by means of a centrifugal switch. A handy tip is that if a single phase motor won’t start but just vibrates and no ‘electrical burn smell’ is present, it is probably the centrifugal switch. Give the motor a whack with a mallet and it may solve the trick. There is another type of single phase motor called a ‘shaded pole motor’ where the copper bars are sometimes set at an angle in the rotor with a copper ring creating an additional magnet field. This design has low starting torque and is not very efficient. Three phase motors are supplied with three phase power, normally supplied from three wires and sometimes four (three phases and a neutral). Between each of the wires and the neutral, the voltage peaks at different moments which creates a rotating magnetic field. The rotor has similarly a number of windings (called ‘poles’) in which themagnetic field is induced – all of which causes the rotor to spin. Typically a four

SPOT FINDER TEMPERATURE MEASUREMENT DEVICE It happens that if you connect single phase power to the stator then a magnetic field will be induced in the rotor but not much will happen since the field is an alternating field, not a rotating one. This is overcome by using two winding coils which then displace the magnetic field. Often a capacitor is used laminations the copper arrangement would look like a hamster exercise wheel. For some reason this type of motor is known as a ‘squirrel cage motor’ instead of a ‘hamster wheel motor’ (it is perhaps fortunate that this type of motor was not invented in South Africa – we’d have to have a ‘meerkat wiel’ which would be confusing, for sure).

OPTRIS’ two newly developed temperature measurement devices from Instrotech, Xi 80 and Xi 400, combine the benefits of infrared cameras and infrared thermometers. “With the Xi series, we are launching a semi-autonomous sensor which, in addition to traditional PC and software-based operation, also works as a smart pyrometer with analogue or digital outputs that seek the target on its own. This opens up new fields of application, for example, in mechanical engineering or multisensor applications,” explains Torsten Czech, Head of Product Management at Optris. The Xi series is a fusion between a robust, compact pyrometer andanadvanced IRcamera. The integrated spot finder function enables accurate temperature measurements in moving objects without having to readjust the sensor. Sensor adjustment takes place autonomously, i.e. without having to establish a connection with a PC. In addition to a direct 0/4- 20 mA analogue output, the devices also offer users digital interfaces such as Ethernet or RS485. An external processing interface permits the further processing of up to nine freely definable analogue outputs, making it ideal for OEM applications. The new microscope optics for the Xi 400 infrared camera allow reliable temperature measurement on tiny objects from 240 μm. In combination with a suit- able stand, this enables professional measurement of printed circuit boards and components in the elec- tronics industry. Circuit boards are a core part of electronic devices. They keep getting smaller while having to be more powerful at the same time. Temperatures of assembled circuit boards can easily be measured with the micro- scope optics of the Xi 400 thermal imager, thus identi- fying overheated areas quickly and preventing possible defects. The causes for excessive temperatures can be manifold: defective components, incorrectly dimen- sioned circuit paths or poorly soldered joints.

Enquiries: sales@instrotech.co.za

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JULY 2019

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER

6

SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC DEBUTS ELECTRICIAN REWARDS PROGRAMME SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC has announced the introduction of a mySchneider Electrician Rewards Programme. The programme is aimed at rewarding residential and small building electricians for making good choices when they purchase Schneider Electric products.

CALL FOR PAPERS FOR SAEEC CONFERENCE The President of the Board of the South African Energy Efficiency Confederation (SAEEC), Lisa Reynolds, invites interested parties to submit an abstract for consideration to speak at the 2019SAEEC Conference to be held from 14-15 November 2019 at Farm Inn, Silver Lakes, Pretoria. Successful speakers will be invited to present their papers at the conference and have the ben- efit of full delegate attendance over the two days at no charge. 2019SAEEC aims to enable discus- sions around sustainability of resources by pro- viding insightful discussions and information dis- semination between small and large businesses so that economic development in the energy in- dustry can be stimulated in Southern Africa. The deadline is 23 July. points in June 2019, the total of these 750 points will expire in 2021 on 31 December. Alternatively, if they earn 250 points in March 2019 and 500 points in June 2020, the first 250 points will expire in 2021 on 31 December, and the other 500 points will expire in 2022 on the same date. Electricians will be rewarded for using products that are best-in-class and of a high quality and will be first in line for notifications of new product alerts, sales promotions and savings opportunities. “Not only will they be part of a professionally run rewards programme where they can track their pro- gress and growth, they will have access via a direct channel to Schneider Electric from which to give feedback and be heard. Although the programme is aimed at residential and small electricians, there are benefits for official distributors too because the programme will drive an increase in traffic through their outlets from which they can solicit up-selling of other ancillary products,” says Puza. Introduced in November 2018, the mySch- neider Partner Portal for electricians is an online source that offers products and energy manage- ment solutions, tools, training and networking opportunities. It aims to assist residential electri- cians grow their enterprises through business development training and serves as a network that provides access to information on the lat- est products and energy management solutions. SUBTITLE: Key benefits of the programme This programme is designed to drive your business, enrich your professional life, and reward you with exclusive privileges, such as: • Resources to help you build and grow your busi- ness. • Access to industry events and special promo- tions. • Training opportunities and a rich rewards pro- gramme. A resource-rich, easy-to-navigate website. Part- ners have 24/7 access to a wealth of resources for business-building, support and professional devel- opment, including: • Partner locator – to help you find new oppor- tunities. • Business basics – to help you develop and grow your skills. • Tools and documentation – to boost your ef- ficiency. To thank customers for using Schneider Electric products, a world of rewards awaits. Simply pur- chase an eligible product, upload the invoice, collect the points and choose the rewards, which include: • Smartphones. • Electronics and home entertainment. • Travel vouchers. • Improving technical skills. Enquiries: www.se.com/za/en/partners/electricians/

“We want to encourage residential and small building electricians to make Schneider Electric their preferred partner of choice,” says Miranda Puza, Electricians Program Manager at Schneider Electric. Electricians can claim their rewards each time they make a purchase of an applicable Schneider Electric product at any one of its official distributors. To get the ball rolling, electricians need to register on the mySchneider Partner Portal as this is the gateway to many useful tools that will help them grow their businesses professionally. Once registered, they can start submitting claims by selecting the ‘Upload Invoice’ tab. “Then it’s a simple matter of entering the invoice number and date and up- loading the invoice file while ensuring part numbers are visible on all the invoices,” Puza adds. Registered residential and small building electricians will receive mySchneider Electrician Rewards Program points for all approved claims submitted and points received are valid until the end of the second year. For example, should an electrician earn 250 points in March 2019 and 500

Enquiries: www.saeeconfed.org.za

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JULY 2019

CABLES AND CABLE ACCESSORIES

7

AT THE FOREFRONT OF THE CABLE MANAGEMENT INDUSTRY “I nnovation in cable management solutions has long been at the heart of the Strutfast value proposition,” says Strutfast CEO, Tony Kinsella. “From the patented Megabow cable ladder system, the office in Johannesburg, branches in Pretoria, Cape Town and Port Eliza- beth, Strutfast are soon to be opening new offices in Durban, Bloem- fontein, Botswana, DRC, Namibia and Australia.

Metal framing and support systems: Strutfast’s metal framing sys- tems, also known more generally as Unistrut, provide an economical solution for virtually any industrial, mining, petrochemical, infrastruc- ture, commercial or data centre application. Application solutions, product innovation, in-depth experience in cable management solutions, along with a commitment to Total Project Life- cycle Support from design through to installation training and main- tenance advice, provides Strutfast’s customers with full confidence for any of their projects and installations. As such, it is no surprise that an impressive client base of highly respected local South African busi- nesses along with many well-known global companies have entrusted their cable management solutions to the team at Strutfast.

internationally accredited and heavy duty Longbow NEMA 20B and 20 C cable ladder and also the edge mounted Strongbow cable ladder, Strutfast has led the way in the South African market for innovative cable management product design since 2001. With 14 patents and design registrations under our belt and by continuing to develop prod- ucts that solve many of the problems and issues facing installation professionals, Strutfast has proudly kept at the forefront of the cable management industry. We are therefore proud to announce the launch of yet another industry first, the innovatively designed ECO LADDER, which is an exciting modular cable ladder system that is specifically designed to address a number of factors facing electrical contractors and installers,” says Kinsella.

Strutfast’s cable management solutions at a glance Steel cable ladder: A complete cable support system specifically de- signed for arduous applications, with a product portfolio based on tech- nical design innovations. Cable tray: The cable tray range is a cable support system that is easily assembled on site, with products designed to carry electrical cables in both horizontal and vertical applications. The trays are available in a variety of finishes, from pre-galvanised, HDG, stainless steel, GRP and other finishes upon request, in order to meet a wide variety of applica- tions.

Enquiries: +27 (0)11 473 1212 or sales@strutfast.co.za

“The lightweight design of the ECO LADDER makes is easy to transport and handle and the fact that it can be easily self-assembled without the re- quirements of any hot works or electricity on site, makes it an ideal solution at the early stage of any project. There is amazing flexibility in the system, with the horizontal bends, risers, droppers and off- sets being easily adjustable to suit various angular degrees that may be required on site. The aestheti- cally pleasing design and finish of the ECO LADDER makes it ideal for those ‘in plain sight’ installations where the visual, industrial look is a requirement, such as in offices, airports or commercial retail out- lets.” Kinsella concludes. Levy Tshabalala, the Strutfast Operations & Pro- jects Director says, “The ECO LADDER has been rigorously load tested on our in-house NEMA test bay and it’s simple, yet robust design is completely suitable for all medium to heavy duty commercial applications. The small number of components that make up the ECO LADDER make it an ideal op- tion for electrical wholesalers where a small stock holding, which takes up a minimal amount of stor- age space, can satisfy an incredible mix of ladders. Imagine a bakkie loaded with side rails and rungs in components versus completed ladders – you would be able to transport more than 10 times the number of ladders in this format. Unfortunately, the nature of the South African cable management industry is made of companies that look out for innovative products by companies such as ours and then at- tempt to copy them, so this is why, at Strutfast, we continue to protect our innovations with patents and design registration and the ECO LADDER is protect- ed in this way. The ECO LADDER will be commer- cially available from August 2019 and we are already taking pre-launch orders for the system.” Established in Johannesburg in 2001, Strutfast designs, manufactures and supplies cost effective cable management systems for all industries. The focus of the company is to provide high quality so- lutions to meet and exceed even the most arduous project requirements. With an emphasis on innova- tion and full project lifecycle support, Strutfast have the technical design skills, manufacturing capability and logistics expertise to ensure that customers can complete their projects on time and within budget. Quality is at the heart of Strutfast and their Busi- ness Management System has been developed to meet all of the requirements of ISO 9001:2015 for which successful accreditation has recently been received. The company is a proud South African company and is committed to the Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment initiative and have a 51% Black ownership The business has recently been acquired by Tony Kinsella who was previously a director of Unistrut In- ternational. He and his co-director, Levy Tshabalala, are focused on expanding the company, both across southern Africa and also internationally. With a head

!

"#$

%

&

&

&

'

()* +,--(.

, /012

,

'

!

!"

# $$

! % & &

' ( )* )+

,,,)

( )* )+

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JULY 2019

CABLES AND CABLE ACCESSORIES

8

WIRED ANDWIRELESS SOLUTIONS FOR SMART HOMES

wiring, as it uses the existing electrical infrastructure. Legrand states that while there are switches that will work without a neutral, depending on the application, there are also switches that do require a neutral. This means, if there isn’t one in the box, a neutral will have to be added to the installation. To upgrade or extend an installation, ‘Arteor with Netatmo’ wireless connected controls can be paired with wired devices. Selected scenarios can be modified and upgraded at any time, according to chang- ing needs. By using wireless switches, users always have their controls exactly where they want them. If furniture needs to be re-arranged or small children need to be able to reach a switch, the wireless switches can be repo- sitioned easily at any time. All functions can also be used in the traditional way via switches on the wall. The Home + Control app is used by the installer for configuration of the entire system, based on individual requirements. Configuration is based on a set of simple steps, where each room and all functions are individually organised. This intuitive app allows the user to control all functions, while at home or remotely. ‘Arteor with Netatmo’ creates central con- trol of lights, curtains and roller blinds and also manages scenarios in and away from the home. A single press of a button turns off the lights and closes curtains and shutters, as the user leaves home. A scenario can be set to switch off lights and socket outlets when users go to bed and in the morning they can enjoy the ‘wake up’ scenario, where a soft light comes on and curtains automatically open. It is also possible to simulate presence when no one is at home.

LEGRAND has expanded the Arteor range of wiring devices with the addition of ‘Arteor with Netatmo’, to make connected homes effortless. With this system, automation is more efficient and easier for designers, in- stallers and users in homes, hotels and the professional environment. ‘Arteor with Netatmo’ is a collection of connected switches and socket outlets, designed to add comfort, simplicity, con- venience and safety to daily life. Further to this are energy savings, peace of mind and flexibility. It is a radio technology and Wi-Fi enabled solution which simplifies usage, by making complex functions in home auto- mation easy to use. The home automation system offers end-users and electricians the freedom to create a connected, customised home by combining controls and features to man- age scenarios, create centralised functions and allow remote-control of individual functions – to suit personal requirements. Using a few simple components, many useful functions can be implemented in the installation. The Gateway kit – consisting of the gateway and wireless master switch – is used to create the ZigBee radio network and Wi-Fi connection of the installation. This solution ensures easy and conveni- ent control of functions in the home, us- ing a smartphone or tablet via the Home + Control App. Users can control lighting, roller blinds and electrical appliances, from wherever they are. And by using voice con- trol with a voice assistant, the installation can be managed without having to lift a finger. As an example, lighting in the home can be switched on or off, with one word. This system is easily integrated into ex- isting installations, requiring no additional

Legrand’s Arteor range – with new functions, en- hanced operating concepts and updated designs – pro- vides flexible solutions to constantly changing trends in the modern world. Through ‘Arteor with Netatmo’, which is easy to install, configure and use, Legrand is committed to making smart homes a reality for South African home-owners and the professional environment.

In the event of a power failure, fire alarm signal or safety siren while users are away, the app gives an auto- matic alert so appropriate action can be taken. Greater energy efficiency is achieved by checking real-time en- ergy consumption and doing in-depth analyses. These functions are also controlled via voice com- mands, used in combination with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa or Apple Siri. ‘Arteor with Netatmo’ can be integrated with other brands and platforms through the inter-operability programe ‘Works with Legrand’.

Enquiries: +27 (0)11 444 7971

SILICONE ELASTOMERS AND AUXILIARYMATERIALS FOR CABLE ACCESSORIES

T he first silicone cable accessories were developed in the late 1960s and appeared together with in- troduction of extruded XLPE cables. The main fo- cus at the time was on a design with field-grading and insulating parts in a prefabricated body that allowed easy assembly and helped avoid errors in mounting. The first terminations and joints were still rather massive since the excellent electrical behaviour of silicone was not yet fully understood. Still, test results and initial service experience compared to the then state-of-the-art polyurethane and other solutions proved encouraging. The basic concept of a prefabricated silicone elastomer body remained and has since been further refined to the point that today users benefit from a broad portfolio of different silicone elasto- mers and auxiliary materials for both medium and high voltage cable accessories. Types and tasks for cable accessories The majority of all power cables are extruded XLPE insu- lated cables. These consist of a conductor, an inner con- ductive layer, the main insulation layer, an outer conductive layer, an outer conductor and an outer insulation/jacket. At places where two cable sections are connected, theses layers have to be re-built in the same way by applying a cable joint or splice. At the cable termination, the layers have to be treated such that they can withstand all result- ing electrical and environmental stresses. This is done by mounting a cable termination. Besides these main cable accessories, there are sev- eral combinations and modifications such as connec- tors and pluggable systems. The main resulting tasks include: • Electrical connection. • Field grading. • Sealing. • Withstanding weathering. Medium voltage plug-in systems are a good example for the first task. A rather soft silicone elastomer cone is pressed by a metallic spring into the male resin part and provides for a perfect electrically insulated interface. Apart from the low hardness of the silicone elastomer, its high gas permeability is another advantage since any gas trapped in the interface diffuses out shortly after mount- ing. As mentioned, one of the main goals during early development of silicone accessories was to pre-fabricate a ready-to-use part consisting of all insulating and field grading parts. Other solutions applying silicone elasto- mers with high permittivity are also possible. Silicone elastomers, especially liquid silicone elastomers, have been found to be an ideal material for all necessary step- moulding processes since they are low in viscosity and allow for good flow into the mould and towards the triple- points located between mould and pre-inserted conduc- tive parts. Proper sealing is another important task of a silicone cable accessory. The outstanding mechanical proper- ties of soft silicone elastomers facilitate slip-on mount- ing while the perfect and lasting ability to shrink to orig- inal dimensions, even after long expansion time, allows for cold-shrink technology. Both mounting technologies also benefit from the high gas permeability of silicones.

Proper mounting and sealing are supported as well by special silicone pastes available for transmission and distribution applications. Pastes can be modified so as to allow easy dismantling even after long time or of a migrating type that disappears from the interface in a short time. Most important in the case of outdoor ap- plications is the general capability of silicone elasto- mers to withstand weathering. Nevertheless, silicones for these applications are specially modified to ensure lasting stability against weathering stresses as well as the possibility of resulting electrical and erosive stress- es during service. Experience and formulating know- how allow for silicones that can withstand the rather short-term stresses encountered during type tests (e.g. salt fog) as well as long-term stresses during service. It is important to consider pollution affecting outdoor cable accessories. In this regard, the ability of suitable silicone elastomers not only to remain hydrophobic but also to show good hydrophobicity transfer to the pollu- tion layer is important. Types of silicone materials The principal materials used in silicone cable accessories are silicone elastomers. The early years of their produc- tion were characterised by two component, low viscosity elastomers designed to cure at low temperatures and parts were mainly cast or vacuum cast. Production output at the time was low compared to the sophisticated tech- nologies available today. Nevertheless, these materials are still available, e.g. for prototyping or for manufacturing of small series of products. State-of-the-art materials for ca- ble accessories are either low hardness, high-consistency silicone rubber (HCR), available as peroxide curing types or as one or two component addition curing materials for fast and very fast injection moulding applications or ex- trusion respectively. Press moulding is not recommended since state-of-the-art accessories require a high accuracy of moulds. The other option is using liquid silicone rubbers (LSR) that usually come as 1 to 1 two component systems. These materials are now used to manufacture all types of cable accessories. Silicone pastes are also available in a variety of modi- fications. Extremely soft silicone elastomers, i.e. silicone gels, first saw application in the low voltage area below 1000 V. So-called ‘gel-joints’ allowed proper electrical installation and sealing just by closing shell-like parts pre-filled with soft silicone gel. Thanks to special fillers, new potential applications for silicone gels are becom- ing evident to manufacturers.

Enquiries: www.inmr.com

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JULY 2019

CABLES AND CABLE ACCESSORIES

9

AFRICA WIRE, CABLE & TUBE CONFERENCE M etallic wire, cable, tube and pipe products are crucial to industries that are key pillars of economic development across Africa, such as mining, power supply and construction. For the first time, a conference is being held to bring together local stakeholders and international experts to discuss how to boost production and trade in these products throughout the continent. The inaugural Africa Wire, Cable & Tube Conference, co-organised by CRU and The Southern Afri- can-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AHK), will be held in Johannesburg. Wire and Tube Düsseldorf, the world’s largest trade show in this field, are lead sponsors of this important conference. The unique partnership is the basis for creating an event in which the international wire, cable, tube and pipe supply chain will meet and create new trade partnerships with key African stakeholders. Nicola Coslett, CEO of CRU Events explained the rationale behind the project, “CRU is a leading authority in wire and cable markets. We are delighted to build a partnership with AHK and Messe Düsseldorf. This important inaugural event is being launched in response to interest in these rapidly changing markets and offers an ideal opportunity for local industry and key decision makers to meet with the international supply chain.” Frank Aletter, Deputy CEO of The Southern Africa-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry

tween South African SMEs and their new partners, and to the many discussions around future business opportunities in the region.” Discussions at the conference will explore the main trends impacting the global steel, copper and aluminium wire, cable and tube products and what this means for Africa. Delegates will also be brought up-to-date on the expected consumption trends within Africa for these products in mining, utilities, oil and gas, construction and infrastructure. Attendees will gain insights into the current political and investment climates across the continent from local experts and international organisations with real case studies. Investors will also have the chance to assess greenfield and brownfield project showcase presentations. In other sessions, industry experts will discuss the latest global technological advances in wire, cable, tube and pipe manufactur- ing, and how these can be applied to African operations.

The conference will be held on 11-13 November 2019 at Emperors Palace, Johannesburg.

Enquiries: www.events.crugroup.com

EASILY PRINT COMPLEX LABELS FROMANY SMARTPHONE commented, “We are excited to be co-organising the new conference, which will serve to benefit local enterprise and the region’s best interests as well as establish a dialogue with internation- al investors wishing to make contact with local manufacturers and producers. We look forward to helping to build long-lasting relationships be- T he BradyPrinter M611 Mobile Printer brings about a new chapter in the ongoing evolu- tion of identification. The most complex labels can now easily be designed in the field using only a smartphone and Brady Corporation’s free Express app before printing on reliable, industrial grade label materials with the BradyPrinter M611. Design any complex label in the fieldwith a phone With Brady’s Express app installed on any smart- phone, users can easily design complex labels with 1D and 2D codes and barcodes, serialise, use an ex- tensive image library, include text, a time stamp and even data from the cloud. The Express app offers the most comprehensive label design capabilities avail- able for any smartphone and includes design wizards to quickly create specific identification labels. Access from anywhere Label designs can be sent to the BradyPrinter M611 from the Express app on a smartphone via WiFi or Bluetooth for immediate printing. They can also be sent to, or received from, computers in the office so users don’t need to design a label from scratch on every occasion. Simply access existing designs, edit and print to bridge the gap between the office and the field. Labels designed with any app from the Brady Workstation app platform are compatible with the Express app delivered with the BradyPrinter M611. Print reliable labels The BradyPrinter M611 Mobile Printer is compatible with Brady’s wide range of reliable, industrial grade label materials. Able to resist extreme temperatures, fire, chemicals, solvents, fuels, moisture or dirt, the materials are designed to stay attached and remain legible in challenging conditions. They are avail- able in professional label types including wire wraps, self-laminating labels, flag labels, tags and various component labels including raised profile labels with nameplate quality.

Enquiries: www.bradysouthafrica.com/en-za/

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JULY 2019