Sparks Electrical News July 2021

JULY 2021

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

‘ELECTRICAL CLUSTER’ GIVES MORE POWER TO CUSTOMERS

A t the beginning of March this year, Hudaco Industries’ ‘Electrical Clus- ter’, comprising Three-D Agencies, Hudaco Power Transmissions, Powermite and Varispeed, relocated to new offices in Linbro Park, Johannesburg, consolidating their businesses into one building. Although the companies still operate as separate entities, the move has numerous benefits, not least capitalising on the synergies between the businesses. Established in 1977, Three-D Agencies has for the past 40 Years provided the highest quality range of cable accessories to a wide spec- trum of South African industries. Today Three-D sources products from leading cable accessory manufacturers situated across the globe, help- ing the business to grow into one of Southern Africa’s leading cable accessory companies. “The move came about because of COVID-19 effectively,” explains Three-D managing director, Ian Downard. “It pro- vided a good opportunity to bring costs down, consolidate ideas, and bring everyone into one building where we could all talk. It is working well, and we have been able to feed off each other already.” After the shock of the move – which occurred during a time of load shedding across both premises, and before a generator was installed – the company has settled down and reported record high sales in May. “Our new location gives our customers, which are often also those of our sister companies as well, more power,” notes Downard. Mark Jenkins, Three-D sales director, concurs: “It is more central and user- friendly here, and is accessible to many customers. We are also very visible along the highway with fantastic signage, and as a result, enquir- ies have almost doubled in the past months.” Jenkins also notes that the company has scope to grow in the new building. “We now have an impressive 8500m 2 warehouse component compared to 1600m 2 at our previous premises in Meadowdale, which has also allowed us to conform our bulk stock in such a way that most of the stock is immediately visible and easier to reach.” Since the move, the company has boosted its sales division with new employees, and reshuffled some staff within the company to streamline its processes.

ing in the market, yet Three-D’s primary goal right now is service. “The only way you are going to get and retain business in these times, is service.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

A focus on the customer Jenkins says that there has been a shift in the way customers are buy-

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER

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Playing an important role in steadying the power supply and enhancing power quality R egenerative energy such as solar and wind power often have unstable and intermittent power supply problems that affect the power

capacitive type load and phase lag mode under a inductive type load. The Chroma 17020 and 17040 series Battery Pack tester can set battery capacity and behavior curve and simulate all kinds of battery pack conditions. Chroma recently launched the new 62000D series bidirectional dc power supplies, two quadrant design that allow power from the DUT to be converted back to the utility grid. The 62000D can provide both power source and load characteristics to simulate the battery’s charge/discharge behaviour, so eliminating the risks and inconveniences of using a real battery. Along with the diverse developments and applica- tions of energy storage technology, various countries have implemented regulations on these technolo- gies, such as GB/T 34120, GB/T 34133, IEC62933, and SGSF-04-2012-07, to encourage a sound and sustainable development of the energy storage in- dustry. Chroma combined our vast experience in the PV industry with the international relevant regulatory requirements and compiled a comprehensive over- view of these standards’ goals and methods in our Power Conversion System (PCS) Test Guide. The guide contains tests on PCS performance, PCS in- put and output characteristics, PCS protection char- acteristics, and PV characteristics test, and provides customers with test references on product verifica- tion. Download the PCS Test Guide now for free! www.chromaate.com/en/questionnaire_info_32 This PCS Test Guide offers descriptions of over 20 test items: • PCS Performance Tests: Charge/discharge transfer time, active grid mode and islanded mode switch. • PCS Input and Output Characteristics Test: Rectification charging efficiency, PCS efficiency in grid mode, and PCS efficiency in islanded mode. • PCS Protection Characteristics Test: Overload in grid mode, overload in islanded mode… • Photovoltaic (PV) Characteristics Test: MPPT efficiency andPV conversion efficiency. Driving innovation to success Founded in 1984, Chroma is a world leading sup- plier in Automatic Testing Equipment (ATE), includ- ing electronic tests and measurement equipment and systems, for various ICT industries. Chroma also provides integrated and customized turnkey solu- tions through Test and Measurement Instruments, Automatic Test Systems and Manufacturing Execu- tion Systems. The focal points of Chroma are tests and meas- urements on power electronics, passive component, electrical safety, video and colour, LCD/LCM, auto- motive electronics, and semiconductor industries. More importantly, Chroma also drives itself toward clean technology by providing turnkey test solutions in photovoltaic, advanced battery and storage, LED, electric vehicles, electronic paper and other ongoing new eco-driving industries. Turnkey solutions: To fulfil the need of complete test solutions from the market, Chroma not only provides test & measurement instruments, but also integrates with automated systems and manufactur- ing execution systems as a turnkey solution, which brings more value and service to the customers and helps customers in terms of time saving, cost saving, and one-stop full service. A history of innovation: Consisting of a large per- centage of R&D engineers, Chroma puts large in- vestment in research and development each year to ensure its leading technology. Core technologies in power electronics and optics have been the corner- stones for Chroma to drive forward to various new frontiers to provide innovative test solutions with precision, reliability, and uniqueness. Chroma has branch offices in Europe, the United States, Japan, Korea, China, and Southeast Asia chartered to deliver innovative technologies with high value-added service to satisfy our global cus- tomers' demands.

power conversion systems (PCSs) are equipped with on-grid constant current output and off-grid current voltage modes, as well as charge/discharge transfer and other features. This makes testing a PCS even more complicated and requiring even more instru- ments to fit its many features. Chroma ATE Inc. offers the 61800 series Grid Simulators with optional ac load function: multifunctional devices that cannot only simulate various output voltages and frequencies applicable to PCS on-grid function testing, but can also execute four quadrant ac load operation and simulate current phase lead mode under a

grid stability. An energy storage system (ESS) can reduce the impact of regenerative energy in grid connection, offer stable power grid operation, and can also adjust the peak load to maintain the power supply balance, so giving the user various applica- tions and benefits. The ESS is an important part in developing smart grid and micro-grid, which can be used to balance the power load, steady the power supply, and en- hance the power quality. Different from PV inverters,

Chroma PCS ATS

Enquiries: www.chromaeu.com

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JULY 2021

SPARKS DIGITAL

3

12 YouTube channels every electrician should be watching

such mistakes must be avoided. Many people feel some of his experi- ments are too dangerous. However, the fact is that he knows the result of each mistake he makes. He is a very smart man. SparkFun Electronics The channel is highly professional in terms of video production qual- ity. The video scripts are to the point. The content discussed here is mostly new electronic chips and DIY projects based on them. How- ever, the team also discusses other engineering-related topics. The channel has a website where you can buy the latest electrical com- ponents. Electronics Hub ElectronicsHub.org provides the best information about various elec- tronics circuits and project ideas on electronics, electrical, robotics, and communication concepts. It is one of those special channels with true DIY electronic projects feel. The projects made on this channel, use cheap and easy to find com- ponents, with not so complex electrical circuits. However, the channel does not have an in-depth explanation of every component used in projects.

resistors to big fat motors. The best part of the videos is the circuit drawings that he draws on paper to explaining the core of workings. The video and audio quality are superb, and editing is done up to the mark. The DIY or BUY playlist is probably the most viewed content on the channel. S33 Electrical With a healthy dose of all things electric, S33 Electric brings you a varied dose of electrical content. Electronoobs If you are interested in electronics, 3D printing, or just want to build something, here you will learn all that. The channel is very similar to the Great Scott channel. The creator of this channel discusses mostly PCB components. The channel also has its own DIY playlist. The ex- planation is very clear and video production quality is superb. Craig Michaud – Electrical Instructor Craig Michaud is an electrical instructor at Porter and Chester Insti- tute in Rocky Hill, Connecticut and has been kind enough to put a lot of his instruction on this channel. Klein Tools The trusted name in electrical tools also has an outstanding YouTube channel with everything from how-to’s to new tool announcements. Journey 2 Master Another channel by Dustin Stelzer (of Electrician U), Journey 2 Master follows Dustin as “a young Master Electrician starting up an electrical contracting company to building up the best electrical company on the planet.” ElectroBoom This electronics/electrical loving YouTuber doesn’t go that deep into the working of each component. However, the style of delivery of the con- tent is superb. The best part is the comedy and his facial expressions that he makes in his videos. This is for sure the best electrical engineer- ing channel to watch when you get bored with learning. He makes a lot of mistakes in his videos to show the audience that An exclusive look into HellermannTyton’s world class Johannesburg facility Take a look at HellermannTyton South Africa's world class facilities strategically located in Linbro Business Park, Johannesburg. HellermannTyton is a leading manufacturer and supplier of products for fastening, fixing, installing, connecting, insulating, protecting and identifying electrical cables and data network infrastructure.

YouTube has fast become one of the best ways to stay on top of what is happening in the electrical trade. Here is a list of the best YouTube channels for electricians for the next time you have some downtime. Electrician U Run by master electrician Dustin Stelzer, Electrician U is “an online learning community for Electricians who are seeking a far deeper understanding of the invisible force that they work with.” If you are committed to taking the mastery of your craft to the next level, this channel is a must-watch. Mike’s Tool Shed Mike has been an electrician for 17 years, and Mike’s Tool Shed is where he shares his thoughts and reviews on all the tools of the trade, plus other hard-earned bits of trade wisdom for those just starting out. Modern Electrician “Your favourite electrician Doug” injects a little humour into electrician life, such as walking you through how to name your tools after famous people. Great Scott This is one of the best YouTube channels to learn about the basics of electronics. The guy explains the basics of everything from small

Fluke 324 True RMS Clamp Meter unboxing and demo

Scan the QR code to watch https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=qmQfZrFc7zA

See more by scanning the QR code https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=gax50nvfJKo

Did you miss our June issue? Cover story In May, Voltex East Rand and Voltex George moved to new, bigger prem- ises. These branches boast cutting-edge product, lighting and solar dis- plays that enhance the customer experience. The top podcasts for electrical contractors If you are on the road most of the day, driving between jobs, why not use your time to brush up on your electrical knowledge? We have compiled a list of the top podcasts for electricians, a blend of interesting, fun and knowledge building shows to keep you up-to-date and entertained. An unboxing and demonstration of the Fluke 324 True RMS Clamp Me- ter. It is rated at a maximum of 400 A. Due to its 400 A capacity, Catego- ry III (600 V) and Category IV (300 V) safety ratings, this is ideal for all residential and many commercial and industrial applications. It includes temperature measurement and a dedicated backlight button.

An electrician’s guide to becoming self-employed If you are thinking about becoming a self-employed electrician, we would always recommend working with an experienced electrician first, once you have completed your training. This will allow you to gain con- fidence and experience before going it alone. Once you feel confident that you have gained enough experience and are competent to go it alone, you may be ready to take the next step.

Visit www.sparkselectricalnewsmagazine.co.za to read our June 2021 is- sue, as well as previous beack issues of the magazine

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JULY 2021

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

‘ELECTRICAL CLUSTER’ GIVES MORE POWER TO CUSTOMERS

One such new partnership is Conta-Clip, a German company which manufactures terminals and solutions for panel builders. “We believe we have a bigger solu- tion than anyone else at the moment in this sector, es- pecially with the KDSClick system,” says Jenkins. The new KDSClick IP66 cable entry system from Conta- Clip allows for quickly feeding open-ended cables or pre-assembled cables into enclosures or through cabinet walls. With sealing elements that fit tightly, the system ensures DIN EN 62444 compliant strain relief for the cables. Conta-Clip’s products are divided into six categories: Conta-Connect for terminal blocks and accessories, Conta-Cable for cable management

want the customer to see the full range of our prod- ucts. In fact, some of our products today have been redesigned from customer feedback at the shows, so we take what the customer says to heart.” The company is constantly looking to diversify into different products and extend its basket, but is careful of what products it pick.s “We have world class prod- ucts and are very particular about the products we bring in – we don’t bring in rubbish. We believe in the brands we supply, and Ian is constantly looking for new products. Previously, he would visit shows all over the world, now he scours the internet, gets samples in to test, and we do our due diligences,” says Jenkins.

“We are still small enough to realise that the cus- tomer is king, not the other way around,” points out Downard, and as such, Downard and Jenkins have maintained their presence out on the road. “We are not the type of guys to sit behind our desks; we are out there with the customers, and they always have a direct line to Ian and myself,” says Jenkins, continuing, “We’re out there, have our fingers on the pulse and un- derstand the market because we are there at the coal face speaking to the customers.” At the time of the in- terview, Downard, Jenkins and their team had recently returned from a customer day in Kimberley. “We put on a proper show when we go out,” says Downard, “We

systems, Conta-Electronics for electrical and elec- tronic switchgear cabinet components, Conta-Label for marking systems, Conta-Box for housings, and Conta-Con for PCB terminal blocks and connectors. “We are excited about this and have also brought out a new panel catalogue which is specifically targeted at panel builders, providing the total range of the products for this industry.” Despite some challenges, including the impact of COVID, rising copper and plastic prices as well as longer lead times on stock arriving from overseas, the future looks bright for Three-D Agencies. “The synergy of the companies here at our new facility can only improve as we work together and learn each other’s businesses, so the opportunities are there,” says Jenkins. “We are very happy in our new space, but I have seen it before where you think the building is big enough, and 18 months down the line you are running out of space. If that happens, then we are do- ing something right.” Hudaco Industries’ electrical cluster at a glance Three-D Agencies: Distributor of electrical cable ac- cessories. Powermite: Distributor of electric cabling, plugs, sockets, electric feeder systems and crane materials. Varispeed: Distributor of controllers, monitors and regulators of the speed of standard ac motors. Hudaco Power Transmissions: Distributor of geared motors, helical gearboxes, frequency inverters and electrical motors.

The Conta-Connect range from Conta-Clip

Stud connection system

Terminals with Push-in connection system

Terminals with screw connections and special terminals

Terminals with tension-spring connection

Enquiries: +27 (0)11 392 3804

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JULY 2021

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER

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ACDC Dynamics and ACDC Express widen infrastructure on the East Rand

A frica’s energy potential, especially renewable energy, is enormous, yet only a fraction of it is being currently employed. The 14th edition of the African Energy Indaba will focus on unlocking business growth and investment opportunities to en- able deal flow. The conference will discuss, debate, and seek solutions to enable adequate energy gen- eration across Africa. A diverse group of luminaries and high-profile speakers will share their real-world insights about the changing energy landscape in Af- rica. This showcase will provide a platform for compa- nies to demonstrate their commitment to providing the much-needed solutions and services that will en- able the African continent to embrace the challenges arising from its demands. The 2022 event will take place as a physical event at the CTICC in Cape Town, South Africa from 1-2 March. Theme for the 2022 Africa Energy Indaba announced ACDC Express, a company owned by ACDC Dynamics, has announced that it will be expanding its existing store in Longmeadow, Edenvale, during the first half 2021. The new infrastructure will consist of a new section offering a lighting floor and an expansion consisting of a wider range of solar, tools, security and more. To celebrate the expansion, the company hosted a customer day on 28 and 29 May 2021 where prod- uct specialists took visitors on a tour of the newly re- vamped ACDC Express store. In thewords ofMarioMaio,CEOof ACDCDynamics, the company’s Customer Days are “dedicated to our customers. As the leading manufacturer in electrical, electronics, solar, tools and pumps, we make products to make our customers’ lives convenient and our Customer Day exemplifies this approach.” ACDC Dynamics is known to make a series of products and solar is a new addition to this substantial list of offerings. With South Africa faced with random power cuts, this is one of the many beneficial products the company manufactures. ACDC Dynamics would like to inform its customer that the company appreci- ates their patience and would love to introduce them to the new store. The launching of the ACDC Express will be highly beneficial for customers as it will allow them an ex- traordinary retail experience with a “wow factor”. Seno Monageng, marketing co-ordinator at ACDC Dynamics, explains that 496 staff members are em- ployed at the 2 000 m2 Longmeadow branch, which stocks a whopping 95 771 active line items. She believes that a lifestyle shopping experience for the electrical contractor and homeowner sets the store apart from its competitors. “That and, of course, our extensive range of products,” she says. “ACDC Dynamics is a true one-stop-shop.” ACDC Dynamics has experienced unprecedented growth as a direct result of challenging work and continued high demand for products. In March this year, the company completed its new facility to ac- commodate increased capacity and newer technol- ogy, as well as to tap into a new market. “We have expanded our store so that we can show- case all our products, along with informative displays and a coffee shop. We also offer all our customers, in- cluding electrical contractors, a loyalty card where the shopper can earn points while shopping. With those points, they can purchase at a discounted rate. Once signed up with ACDC Dynamics, you can also get dis- counts on certain products,” she says. In Cape Town, ACDC Dynamics’ new Western Cape headquarters is located at Richmond Southern Close. In the 36th year of service to its customers, ACDC Dynamics will have a complete manufactur- ing facility and sales office at its new headquarters in Richmond Park, Cape Town. Enquiries: +27 (0)10 202 3300

Enquiries: www.africaenergyindaba.com

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JULY 2021

CABLES AND CABLE ACCESSORIES

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Oscilloscope vs. multimeter: Choosing the right tool for testing and troubleshooting

Selecting your electrical cable S electing your electrical cable is one of the most important steps in ensuring the longevity of your electrical installation and the correct running thereof. SANS 10142 carries an intense array of tables that will be used in this selection process. Step 1: Load determination The first step is to decide exactly what the required load is and its characteris- tics are. That is to say, as an example, 100 A motor load that is to run daily for two eight-hour shifts, for instance. The motor is also 3-phase DOL preferred. Location 25 m away from the DB. Step 2: Ambient derating The anticipated local ambient temperature should also be stated at this time as the cable would require derating, possibly if the daily ambient temp ex- ceeded 30°C. Step 3: Possible cable type preferred From copper types available, we could use 3/4 core or single cores. The 3/4 core is probably more popular but the method from the supply DB to the load must be chosen. This is also a major point of selection as the cable method does determine the load capability of your cable. Step 4: Voltage-drop maintained There appears to be a general perception that a 5% voltage drop is mostly allowable as per SANS 10142, so at this time, any cable selected as probable must either be checked by calculation or maximum cable length tables. Step 5: Method of delivery Depending on the cable routing/method of delivery, additional derating may be required. Many of the above steps may have been done previously and do not have to be done continually from these first principal steps. The supply side of the many municipalities in South Africa have recognised standards as the loads are standardised in many ways. This can obviously make life far easier for the electrical staff. Many of these supply authorities have also introduced aluminium cables due to the theft risk of copper. Aluminium brings with it a select range of challenges to ensure that corrosion on site does not reduce reliability, especially in the humid coastal areas. On no account must Al/Cu be coupled together directly. Even if the cable has been correctly chosen and specified, it has to be care- fully ended and connected in order to control the localised heating that can easily result in a connection burnout, the so-called hot spot which will wreck the joint and potentially also the protection breaker. In both images below, you can see an electrical connection being made via a steel bolt. This will result in hot connections. Steel is not to be considered an electrical conductor from the power current perspective. This shows a to- tal lack of knowledge of what is to be achieved with a low resistance power connection. Similarly, a misplaced steel washer can cause a major incident if incorrectly placed between contacts. By Kevin Flack Flack has recently retired from industry and believes he still has valuable in- depth knowledge of the South African electrical landscape due to wide experi- ences gained in his 45+ year working career. He is keen to explore the training arena so that this can be passed on to the youth so as to benefit their practical ability in the electrical field. In these trying COVID-19 times, Flack can provide online training to keep your staff up to date on all aspects of circuit breaker deployment.

T he difference between an oscillo- scope and a digital multimeter is sim- ply stated as ‘pictures vs. numbers.’ A digital multimeter is a tool for making pre- cise measurements of discrete signals, ena- bling readings of up to eight digits of resolu- tion for the voltage, current or resistance of a signal. An oscilloscope is designed to depict waveforms visually to show signal strength, wave shape and the value of a signal. But how does the difference between numbers and pictures translate to real-world testing or troubleshooting? Why use a digital multimeter? Handheld digital multimeters typically have 3,5 to 4,5 digits of resolution and good ac- curacy. They are portable and lightweight, used typically for front-line testing and general-purpose measurements. They also contain advanced functions for special- purpose testing, such as: • Min/max • Conductance • Relative reference • Duty cycle/pulse width Logging You can also find high-accuracy (5 to 8 digits resolution), bench-type, line-pow- ered digital multimeters that are not in- tended for field use. These digital multime- ters are used in the lab, mostly for research and development or for production sys- tems. An advanced bench precision digital multimeter can cost as much as a portable oscilloscope. Why use an oscilloscope? Oscilloscopes are designed for engineer- ing work or troubleshooting systems that might contain complex signals that send at speeds much faster than a digi- tal multimeter can capture. Scopes have much faster measurement engines and much wider measurement bandwidths than digital multimeters, but typically do not have the same accuracy and resolu- tion strength as a multimeter. Oscillo- scopes generally have a resolution equiva-

Fluke 87V MAX Industrial heavy-duty multimeter

lent to a 3,5 to 4-digit digital multimeter. One of the advantages of the oscillo- scope over the multimeter is that oscillo- scopes can also display complex signals (the ‘picture’ part in the adage) visually. A transient signal that may pose a threat to a system can be displayed, measured, and isolated with an oscilloscope. It will also graphically show distortion and noise that may be present in the signal. Oscilloscopes can be either line or bat- tery powered; they can be big or small. Battery power and smaller size, for port- ability, are typically required for field use. Some oscilloscopes have built-in multim- eters like the Fluke 120B ScopeMeter, giv- ing the user both numbers and pictures. In many cases, these kinds of oscilloscope can replace a multimeter. Oscilloscope vs. multimeter Be sure to keep your digital multimeter with you for any electrical work. Grab one to make high-precision checks of voltage, current, resistance, frequency, and other electrical parameters. If a red flag is raised with your multimeter, you may need to grab an oscilloscope or more powerful tool to diagnose further. Reach for an oscilloscope if you want to make both quantitative and qualita- tive measurements. For general-pur- pose maintenance or general electronic testing, a digital multimeter is fine, but

Fluke 120B Industrial ScopeMeter handheld Oscilloscope

when testing or troubleshooting machine controls or other complex systems, or when doing electronic design work, an oscilloscope is needed. Industrial electronic applications like automa- tion and process control: an oscilloscope with two isolated inputs and 60, 100, or 200 MHz bandwidth is the choice. Industrial machine applications measuring three-phase power electronics, or three-axis control systems comparing and contrasting multiple signals: an oscilloscope with four iso- lated input channels and 100 or 200 MHz bandwidth is ideal. Industrial network applica- tions: some oscilloscopes add industrial net- work physical layer analogue measurement algorithms to validate the network health.

Enquiries: +27 (0)10 595 1821

Email kevin.flack@outlook.com

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JULY 2021

CABLES AND CABLE ACCESSORIES

7

An electrician’s guide to a domestic rewire E lectricians are called upon to carry out many aspects of electrical work, from re- pairing or replacing sockets or light fit-

• Shaving points. • Television aerial sockets. • Hard-wired burglar alarms. • Telephone points. • Data. • Speaker cabling. • Any hidden cabling.

• Light fittings. • Wiring electric fans. • Cookers and extractor hoods.

sure that all circuits are protected and a clear path to earth is in place in the event of a fault within the installation. All new electrical installations are classed as notifiable work, this means that the work must be carried out and/or signed off by a compe- tent person. Rewires, along with all electrical installations or modifications, should be carried out by a compe- tent electrician.

tings to modifications and new circuits, as well as new build and commercial installations. However, probably the least favourite of all is the rewire and, potentially worse still, is the rewire of an in- habited home. Old or faulty electrics can be a serious fire haz- ard, which at worst could lead to injury or electrocu- tion. Not only is old wiring dangerous but it is also not capable of coping with the demands of modern living. If you have been asked to quote for a full house rewire or to perform significant alterations to a home, then the Building Regulations under Part P come into force. When is a rewire necessary? Firstly, you should always meet the client where the work is to be carried out, to get a clear under- standing of what is required prior to completing your estimate of work/costs. You can also at this stage assess the feasibility of the project and de- termine how much to charge. A full rewire should be considered if: • A property is more than 25 years old and hasn’t been upgraded to bring it up to the current re- quirements. • If major remodelling work is required that con- stitutes a material alteration, as defined by the Building Regulations, it is likely that a part- or full rewire of the property will be required. This would include upgrading the consumer unit. • If a property is being extended, or a garage or attic is being converted, this could constitute new work. Therefore, all new wiring will have to con- form to the latest standards. Existing wiring will have to be improved to ensure it can carry the additional loads safely. • If, during a periodic test, it is discovered that the cable insulation readings are below acceptable levels. How to tell if a property needs a rewire A good starting point is to check the type of electricity meter and fuse box (consumer unit). Modern consumer units will have circuit break- ers and residual current devices (RCDs). Old fuse boxes will have old-fashioned rewireable fuses. You can also tell by inspecting exposed parts of the wiring as modern electrical installations are wired using grey or white PVC insulated cable. An indication that a partial rewire has been un- dertaken is if there is a mix of different switch and socket styles and if there is surface-mounted wir- ing running up walls or along skirting boards. What is involved in a rewire? Rewires are messy and are best achieved in two stages, usually before any plastering has been done and at the same time as any plumbing or central heating work. This is also best achieved without any furniture or carpets in place, as ceil- ings and walls will need to be cut into and floor- boards lifted to allow for installation of cables and wiring. The real difficulty will occur if carrying out a rewire in an inhabited dwelling where, apart from moving furniture and lifting carpets, you must en- sure that the first and second fix of each circuit needs to be carried out at the same. This is to en- sure that the power is reconnected every evening for the occupants to have electricity, which can add significant time and expense to any project. Second fix is when switches, lights and front faceplates of sockets are fitted, connected and then tested before being made live. Things to consider during first fix – which in- cludes all of the wiring for: • Circuits and back boxes. • Internal lighting and external security lights. • Outdoor sockets. • Doorbells. • Smoke detectors and heat alarms.

How long will it take? Assuming there are no hidden surprises, a typical kitchen rewire should take two days to complete. A three-bedroom house should take two days to first fix and two days to second fix. Larger properties will take longer.

Second fix involves: • Connecting the consumer unit. • Connecting the geyser, under-floor heating and air-conditioning controls. • Faceplates for sockets and switches.

The importance of earthing Earthing is a vital part of any electrical work to en-

Source: www.tradeskills4u.co.uk

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JULY 2021

CABLES AND CABLE ACCESSORIES BUYERS' GUIDE

8

MANUFACTURERS

CONTACTS

CABLE GLANDS

BUSBAR TRUNKING SYSTEMS

Aberdare Cables ABB South Africa Brady Corporation

South Ocean Electric Wire Company Yasmin Mahomed Stone Stamcor Mark Talbot Strutfast Tony Kinsella SW Products

ACDC Dynamics Full range of cable glands ACTOM Electrical Products CCG and Pratley glands and shrouds ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of cable glands Bellco Full range of cable glands CCG Cable Terminations

ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of busbar trunking systems Bellco Full range of busbar trunking systems Electech LSis Full range of busbar trunking systems Legrand

Brother International SA CCG Cable Terminations Central Support Systems Crabtree South Africa Eurolux HellermannTyton Indlovu Enterprises Jointmaster Legrand Macrowatt Marechal Electric Africa

Louis Pelser Superlume Willie Garbers Three-D Agencies Mark Jenkins Trinity Cables Scott Meredith Valsa Jolene du Plesis Voltex Hugh Ward Waco Jaco Coetzee Zap Wholesalers Fuaad Vangeria CABLE FAULT LOCATION TEST EQUIPMENT

Complete distribution systems for currents up to 5 000 A, whether used to connect transformers to the main LV distribution board or to supply power to the server racks or lighting O-Line Full range of busbar trunking systems Phoenix Contact Busbar trunking systems Voltex Full range of busbar trunking systems Voltex MV/LV Solutions Full range of busbar trunking systems Zap Wholesalers Full range of busbar trunking systems EARTH BARS ACDC Dynamics Full range of earth bars ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of earth bars Bellco Full range of earth bars HellermannTyton Line taps and T-ferrules Legrand Distribution blocks Major Tech Full range of Econo board earth bars: 4-, 6-, 8-, 10-, 12-, 15-, and 18-modules MCE Electric MCE DIN rail earth bars; MCE fully insulated earth bars

Range of cable glands HellermannTyton BWR, Compression Glands (SABS approved) from size 0 to 8. Nylon glands available Jointmaster Heat shrink cable joints terminations for use on LV cables; Jointmaster cast resin joints for use on LV cables; heat shrink and cold shrink cable joints and terminations up to 33 kV; NKT – oil filled and XPLPE cable joints and terminations up to 132 kV; premoulded screened right angle plug-in elbow terminations for use up to 36 kV; premoulded unscreened elbows up to 17 kV; Legrand ISO glands and PG glands Magnet Electrical Supplies Range of cable glands Matelec Range of cable glands O-line Full range of cable glands Phambili Interface Full range of cable glands Phoenix Contact Range of cable glands Pratley Cable glands and junction boxes SW Products

Matelec Megger O-line Phoenix Contact Pratley Schneider Electric South Africa South Ocean Electric Wire Company Stone Stamcor Strutfast Superlume SW Products Three-D Agencies Valsa DISTRIBUTORS ACDC Dynamics ACTOM Electrical Products ARB Electrical Wholesalers Atlas Banding & Identification Solutions Africa Bellco Brady South Africa Cabstrut Central Support Systems Crabtree South Africa

ACDC Dynamics Full range of cable fault location test equipment ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of cable fault location test equipment Bellco Full range of cable fault location test equipment HellermannTyton Cable Route Tracer, Cable Pipe Locator and Avoidance (CAT4PLUS), Handheld Cable Fault Locator Indlovu Enterprises Surge generators/thumpers; listening sets; pre-location scopes; cable identification sets; cable route tracers; ac testers; dc testers, ac/dc testers; VLF testers Major Tech MT195 – cable meter; MT196T – cable identifier Megger EZ Thump; DET; CI (Cable Indentifier) Voltex Cable fault location test equipment DUCTING ACDC Dynamics Full range of ducting ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of ducting Bellco Full range of ducting Cabstrut Full range of ducting Central Support Systems Complete range of ducting HellermannTyton Solid and slotted trunking Legrand Full range of DLP perimeter trunking MCE Electric MCE slotted trunking; MCE solid PVC wall and floor trunking; Canalplast slotted cable trunking; Canalplast SYS45 rapid power skirting O-line

Sprague connectors Three-D Agencies BW and compression glands; Polyamide glands Trinity Cables Range of cable glands Valsa Range of cable glands Voltex Full range of cable glands Waco Full range of cable glands Zap Wholesalers

Phoenix Contact Range of earth bars Valsa Full range of earth bars Voltex Full range of earth bars Waco Full range of earth bars Zap Wholesalers Full range of earth bars NEUTRAL BARS

Dave Wauchope HellermannTyton Indlovu Enterprises Magnet Electrical Supplies Major Tech MCE Electric Phambili Interface Phoenix Contact Schneider Electric South Africa Stone Stamcor Superlume Three-D Agencies Trinity Cables Valsa Voltex Waco

Full range of cable glands CABLE JOINTS

Aberdare Cables LV, MV and HV cable joints ACDC Dynamics Full range of cable joints ACTOM Electrical Products

ACDC Dynamics Full range of neutral bars ARB Electrical Wholesalers Range of neutral bars Bellco Range of neutral bars Electech LSis Full range of neutral bars HellermannTyton Earth rods for electric fences Legrand Distribution blocks Major Tech Neutral bars: 4-, 6-, 8-, 10-, 12-, 15-, and 18-modules MCE Electric MCE DIN rail neutral bars; MCE insulated neutral bars

RELCO MV paper cable joint boxes; cast iron joint boxes; heatshrink jointing and termination range; cold shrink jointing and termination range; LV resin joints; MV jointing compounds; jointing tapes ARB Electrical Wholesalers Range of cable jointing products Bellco Full range of cable joints Eurolux Size 1 to 50 joining kits HellermannTyton Large selection of heat shrinkable joints available in various sizes Jointmaster Range of cable joints Magnet Electrical Supplies Range of cable joints Matelec Range of cable joints MCE Electric MCE cable joint kits O-line Full range of cable joints SW Products Steel conduit fittings Superlume IP65 cable connection glands: Straight, T connection and X connection

Zap Wholesalers CONTACTS

Phoenix Contact Range of neutral bars Voltex Full range of neutral bars Zap Wholesalers Full range of neutral bars LV CABLES

Full range of ducting Phambili Interface Full range of ducting Phoenix Contact Full range of ducting Strutfast

Aberdare Cables Annelene Naidoo ABB South Africa Customer contact centre ACDC Dynamics

Elmari Erasmus/Dirk Klynsmith ACTOM Electrical Products Mike Ullyett ARB Electrical Wholesalers Sales Atlas Sales Banding & Identification Solutions Africa Rosa Dos Remendos Bellco Shiraj Wentzel Brady South Africa Morne Louw Brother International SA Munna Desai Cabstrut Juanita Kanagan CCG Cable Terminations Arthur Cameron Central Support Systems Faruk Cassim Crabtree South Africa Sales Dave Wauchope Tandy Marks Electech LSis Rose Schulz Eurolux Andrew Wex HellermannTyton Ingrid Nicolaus Indlovu Enterprises Francois Goosen Jointmaster Johan Oosthuizen Legrand

Full range of ducting Three-D Agencies PVC slotted and solid trunking Voltex Full range of ducting Waco Full range of ducting CABLE SECURING PRODUCTS

Aberdare Cables Comprehensive range ACDC Dynamics Full range of LV cables ACTOM Electrical Products

Three-D Agencies Range of cable joints Trinity Cables Range of cable joints Valsa Range of cable joints Voltex Full range of cable joints Waco Full range of cable joints Zap Wholesalers Full range of cable joints CABLE MARKING

Armoured LV 1.5 – 16 mm2 Bells cables (SWA and ECC); Armoured LV 25 – 300 mm2 Mains cables (SWA and ECC); Aerial bundled conductors (ABC) and Airdac; Interdac 1.9/3.3 kV cables; GP Housewire, Surfix and Flat Twin; Bare copper earth wires, Aluminium Conductors Steel Reinforced (ACSR); Low and halogen free cables for mining ARB Electrical Wholesalers Range of LV cables Atlas Full range of LV cables Bellco Full range of LV cables Magnet Electrical Supplies Full range of LV cables

Aberdare Cables MV and HV ACDC Dynamics Full range of cable securing products ACTOM Electrical Products BBS cable clamps and wedges for mine shafts ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of cable securing products Bellco Full range of cable securing products Cabstrut Full range of cable securing products HellermannTyton Cable Ties: locally manufactured T-Series cable ties, stainless steel, Edge Clips and adhesive cradles Jointmaster Cable clamps for MV cables Legrand Colson cable ties

Phoenix Contact Range of LV cables South Ocean Electric Wire Company Range of LV cables Trinity Cables Range of LV cables Valsa Range of LV cable Voltex Full range of LV cables Zap Wholesalers

Aberdare Cables Unique conductor marking technology ABB South Africa Full range of cable marking systems ACDC Dynamics Full range of cable marking systems ACTOM Electrical Products Full range of cable marking systems ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of cable marking systems

Magnet Electrical Supplies Range of cable securing products Matelec Range of cable securing products O-line Full range of cable securing products Phambili Interface Full range of cable securing products Phoenix Contact Range of cable securing products Pratley Full range of cable securing products Strutfast Full range of cable securing products SW Products Steel saddles Three-D Agencies Cable ties in nylon, Polyprop and stainless steel Valsa Range of cable securing products Voltex Full range of cable securing products Waco Range of cable securing products Zap Wholesalers Full range of cable securing products

Full range of LV cables MV CABLES

Banding & Identification Solutions Africa Band-it identification systems for cable marking Bellco Full range of cable marking systems Brady South Africa Full range of cable marking systems Brother International SA Complete range of cable marking systems HellermannTyton Full range such as Helagrip, Ovalgrip Cable Markers, Wire Identification Clip (WIC) markers, heat shrink markers, labels including PV labels Legrand CAB 3 and Duplix identification and marking systems for easy identification of circuits

Aberdare Cables Paper Insulated Cables up to 33 kV; XLPE Insulate Cables up to 132 kV ACTOM Electrical Products Distributors of full drums and lengths cut to size: Paper Insulated Lead Cables (PILC); Cross-linked Polyethylene (XLPE); MV Aerial Bundled Conductors (ABC) ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of MV cables Atlas Full range of MV cables Bellco Full range of MV cables Magnet Electrical Supplies Full range of MV cables Trinity Cables Range of MV cables Voltex Full range of MV cables Zap Wholesalers Full range of MV cables

Johan Bosch Macrowatt

Raymond Lowe/Chesray Manley Magnet Electrical Supplies Jenine Major Tech Werner Grobbelaar Marechal Electric Africa Joe Henriques Matelec Mhleli Tenza MCE Electric Sales Megger Alan Goodson O-line Sales Phambili Interface Steve Lea Phoenix Contact Carl Coetzer Pratley Eldon Kruger Schneider Electric South Africa Sales

Magnet Electrical Supplies Range of cable marking systems Phambili Interface Full range of cable marking systems Phoenix Contact Cable marking systems Three-D Agencies Cable markers; heatshrink markers and machines Voltex Full range of cable marking systems

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JULY 2021

CABLES AND CABLE ACCESSORIES BUYERS' GUIDE

9

LUGS, FERRULES, CONNECTORS, PRE-INSULATED TERMINALS Pratley Range of lugs, ferrules, connectors and pre-insulated terminals Stone Stamcor Full range of copper/aluminium bi-metallic, compression lugs and ferrules; 11 kV and 36 kV mechanical lugs and ferrules; full range of pre-insulated terminals Strutfast Range of lugs, ferrules, connectors, and pre-insulated terminals SW Products Copper lugs and ferrules Three-D Agencies Copper, aluminium and bi-metal lugs and ferules; pre-insulated terminals Trinity Cables Range of lugs, ferrules, connectors and pre-insulated terminals Valsa Range of lugs, ferrules, connectors and pre-insulated terminals Voltex Full range of lugs, ferrules, connectors and pre-insulated terminals Waco Full range of lugs, ferrules, connectors and pre-insulated terminals Zap Wholesalers Full range of lugs, ferrules, connectors and pre-insulated terminals SPECIALISED CABLES Aberdare Cables Fyrsure fire survival cables; Petrosure lead sheathed; Airfield Lighting; SafeEarth; Pullwire; Solardac PV; Raildac (locomotive and rolling stock); VSD ACTOM Electrical Products Range of specialised cables ARB Electrical Wholesalers Range of specialised cables Atlas Full range of specialised cables Bellco Range of specialised cables Legrand Legrand cabling system 2 (LCS3) includes copper (cat 6 A, cat 6 and cat 5e, fibre optic and Wi-Fi solutions as well as enclosures) Macrowatt Specialists in cable harnessing and manufacturing, across the range Voltex Full range of specialised cables PANEL WIRING, TERMINALS AND TERMINAL BLOCKS Aberdare Cables Panel Flex (High conductivity bunched plain flexible copper conductors 300/500 V and 600/1000 V); Power Flex (Single core flexible copper conductors, insulated with general purpose flexible grade PVC and sheathed with a flexible grade waterproof PVC/Nitrile, 600/1000 V ACDC Dynamics Full range of panel wiring, terminals and terminal blocks ACTOM Electrical Products Full range of single and multi-core panel wires ARB Electrical Wholesalers Range of panel wiring, terminals and terminal blocks Bellco Range of panel wiring, terminals and terminal blocks Legrand Viking 3 junction blocks Magnet Electrical Supplies Panel wiring, terminals and terminal blocks Major Tech Two-, three-, five-pole terminal connectors MCE Electric MCE DIN rail and base mount terminal blocks; MCE multi-pole distribution blocks O-line Full range of panel wiring, terminals and terminal blocks Phambili Interface Range of panel wiring, terminals and terminal blocks Phoenix Contact Panel wiring, terminals and terminal blocks Pratley

CONDUIT

CABLE LADDERS, CABLE TRAYS

TRAILING CABLES

ABB South Africa Full range of conduit ACDC Dynamics Full range of conduit ACTOM Electrical Products All PVC and steel conduit and fittings ARB Electrical Wholesalers Range of conduit Atlas Full range of conduit Bellco Full range of conduit Central Support Systems Broad range of conduit Crabtree South Africa Full range of conduit Eurolux 20 mm and 25 mm conduit HellermannTyton Flexible conduit Magnet Electrical Supplies Range of conduit O-line Full range of conduit Phoenix Contact Range of conduit Schneider Electric South Africa Flexible corrugated conduit South Ocean Electric Wire Company Range of conduit Strutfast Full range of conduit SW Products

Aberdare Cables Elastomeric Insulated Cables; Flexible Cables (Types H05 RN-F, H07 RN-F); Welding Cables; Mining Trailing Cable (up to 33 kV) ACDC Dynamics Full range of trailing cables

Cabstrut Powerack weld-free cable ladder; return flange cable tray; welded wire mesh tray Central Support Systems Range of cable ladders and cable trays Legrand Cablofil cable trays

ACTOM Electrical Products Rubber and PVC trailing cables ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of trailing cables Atlas Full range of trailing cables Bellco Full range of trailing cables Jointmaster

Magnet Electrical Supplies Range of cable ladders and trays O-line Full range of cable ladders, cable trays Strutfast Full range of cable ladders, cable trays Valsa Range of cable ladders and trays Voltex Full range of cable ladders, cable trays Zap Wholesalers Full range of cable ladders, cable trasy CRIMP TOOLS AND CUTTERS

Range of joints and terminations Magnet Electrical Supplies Range of trailing cables Phoenix Contact Range of trailing cables South Ocean Electric Wire Company Range of trailing cables Trinity Cables Range of trailing cables Voltex Full range of trailing cables Zap Wholesalers Full range of trailing cables FLEXIBLE CABLES

ACDC Dynamics Full range of crimp tools and cutters ACTOM Electrical Products Range of tools and equipment for cables

ARB Electrical Wholesalers Range of crimp tools and cutters

Banding & Identification Solutions Africa Band-It stainless steel cable tie tools/tensioners Bellco

Aberdare Cables A range of low voltage flexible cables including cabtyre, panel wire, submersible pump, welding, nitrile trailing, power cables ACDC Dynamics Full range of flexible cables ACTOM Electrical Products Welding cables, cabtyres, trailing cables, panel wires, submersible cables ARB Electrical Wholesalers Range of flexible cables Atlas Full range of flexible cables Bellco Range of flexible cables Jointmaster Range of joints and terminations Magnet Electrical Supplies Range of flexible cables Phoenix Contact Range of flexible cables South Ocean Electric Wire Company Range of flexible cables Trinity Cables Range of flexible cables Voltex Full range of flexible cables Zap Wholesalers Full range of flexible cables LUGS, FERRULES, CONNECTORS, PRE-INSULATED TERMINALS ABB South Africa Full range of lugs, ferrules, connectors, pre-insulated terminals ACDC Dynamics Full range of lugs, ferrules, connectors, pre-insulated terminals ACTOM Electrical Products Full range of lugs, ferrules ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of lugs and ferrules Bellco Full range of lugs, ferrules, connectors and pre-insulated terminals Dave Wauchope JST/Japan – Solderless terminals and connectors; Cembre/Italy – Terminal and Connectors Eurolux Range of SABS-approved lugs, ferrules, connectors and pre-insulated terminals HellermannTyton Full range of HT, HTB, Pre-insulated terminals and Brass Terminals Jointmaster Mechanical shearbolt connectors (lugs and ferrules) for use on MV cables Legrand Starfix ferrules Magnet Electrical Supplies Range of lugs, ferrules, connectors, and pre-insulated terminals Major Tech Two-, three-, five-pole terminal connectors Marechal Electric Africa DECONTACTORTM plug and industrial switch (up to 250 A); Multi-contact sockets (up to 37 contacts); Industrial connectors (up to 600 A); Single pole connectors (up to 700 A with pilots); Socket, distribution, break-out, junction, boxes Matelec Range of lugs, ferrules, connectors, and pre-insulated terminals MCE Electric MCE wire connectors and MCE-Morsettitalia DIN rail terminals Phambili Interface Range of lugs, ferrules, connectors, and pre-insulated terminals Phoenix Contact Range of lugs, ferrules, connectors and pre-insulated terminals

Full range of crimp tools and cutters from DIY to heavy duty crimpers including hydraulic crimpers, hand-held and hydraulic cable cutters Dave Wauchope Cembre Spa/Italy: Full range of crimping tools for all cable termination application, both manual and Hydraulic equipment; Marvel/Japan: Cable cutters and crimping tools HellermannTyton Full range of crimp tools and cutters from DIY to heavy duty crimpers including hydraulic crimpers. Hand-held and hydraulic cable cutters Indlovu Enterprises Cable spiking guns Jointmaster Specialised cable preparation tools and preparing MV XLPE cables Legrand Starfix Full range of high quality drop forged crimpers featuring integral ratchets with release mechanism for guaranteed optimum crimping with controlled calibrator assembly to comply with ISO 9000 standard requirements MCE Electric MCE cable cutters, wire strippers and crimping pliers Phambili Interface Range of crimp tools and cutters Phoenix Contact Range of crimp tools and cutters Stone Stamcor Full range of handheld, hydraulic and battery crimping and cutting tools Three-D Agencies Hydraulic crimpers and cutters; manual crimpers; battery operated crimpers Valsa Range of crimp tools and cutters Voltex Full range of crimp tools and cutters WACO Full range of crimp tools and cutters CABLE TRENCH COVERS Magnet Electrical Supplies Range of crimp tools and cutters Major Tech

Steel conduit fittings Three-D Agencies Full range of conduit Valsa Range of conduit Voltex

Full range of conduit Zap Wholesalers Full range of conduit TELECOM, INSTRUMENTATION AND CONTROL CABLES ACTOM Electrical Products Full range of telecom, instrumentation, and control cables ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of telecom, instrumentation and control cables Atlas Full range of telecom, instrumentation and control cables Bellco Full range of telecom, instrumentation and control cables HellermannTyton Fibre enclosures and accessories; Tone and probe kit Indlovu Enterprises Meggers; transformer and substation instrumentation Legrand LCS3 Data Communication Macrowatt Telephone modular line cords, curly cords, molding of RJ connectors, Cat 5 cable and assemblies. Fine wire manufacturing, single and Multicore wires. Heavy duty curly cords in polyurethane, harnessing and cable assembly. Magnet Electrical Supplies Range of telecom, instrumentation and control cables Major Tech Cable and LAN testers for the telecommunications industry Voltex Full range of telecom, instrumentation and control cables CABLES FOR HARSH ENVIRONMENTS ACTOM Electrical Products Suppliers of anti-termite cables; silicone single wires and cabtyres; H07RN-F rubber cables ARB Electrical Wholesalers Range of cables for harsh environments Atlas Full range of cables for harsh environments Bellco Full range of cables for harsh environments Magnet Electrical Supplies Range of cables for harsh environments Eurolux Hazardous area lighting Phoenix Contact Range of cables for harsh environments Trinity Cables Range of cables for harsh environments Voltex Full range of cables for harsh environments

ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of cable trench covers Bellco Full range of cable trench covers Central Support Systems Range of cable trench covers JDL Electric Range of cable trench covers O-Line Full range of cable trench covers Voltex Full range of trench covers

Panel wiring, terminals and terminal blocks South Ocean Electric Wire Company Panel wiring, terminals and terminal blocks Three-D Agencies Connector strips Valsa Range of panel wiring/terminals and terminal blocks Voltex Full range of panel wiring/terminals and terminal blocks Zap Wholesalers Full range of panel wiring/terminals and terminal blocks CABLE LADDERS, CABLE TRAYS

ACDC Dynamics Full range of cable ladders, cable trays ACTOM Electrical Products All cable ducting and trays ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of cable ladders and cable trays Banding & Identification Solutions Africa Band-It stainless steel cable ties for cable trays Bellco Full range of cable ladders, cable trays

+27 (0)11 879 6600

+27 (0)11 238 0000

+27 (0)11 392 3804

+27 (0)11 879 2000

+27 (0)11 794 1306

+27 (0)10 202 3300

+27 (0)11 874 7600

+27 (0)11 955 2190

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

JULY 2021