Sparks Electrical News November 2017

• Cables and cable accessories • Standby and emergency power • Lighting FEATURES

NOVEMBER 2017

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

Contractors’ corner | Buyers’ guide | People on the move REGULARS:

ENGIE JOINS FORCES WITH PIONEER IN AFRICA’S SOLAR HOME SYSTEM MARKET

E NGIE and Fenix have announced an agreement whereby ENGIE will acquire 100% of Fenix International, a next generation energy com- pany, offering solar home systems (SHS) in Africa. The transaction will happen once all approvals of the relevant regulatory bodies are received. Fenix employs over 350 people and has its main activities in Uganda where it is the leading SHS player with more than 140 000 customers. To date, the company has delivered reliable solar power to over 900 000 peo- ple in East Africa. The company recently expanded into Zambia and plans further roll-outs in other countries across the continent. It will be the first SHS company to join a major worldwide energy company, which puts the fight against climate change and energy access at the centre of its purpose. Over 600 million people lack access to modern energy in Africa. Rapid improvement of photovoltaic, battery storage technologies and mobile payment platforms make it possible for companies to offer affordable, reliable and expandable solar home systems. Fenix‘s flagship product, ReadyPay Power, provides lighting, phone charging and power for TVs and radios. The technology is offered on a lease-to-own basis so that off-grid customers can finance their power system through micro in- stalments over mobile money. Fenix uses the financing of the solar #WozaDecember

home system to build a credit score for each customer which can then be used to power and finance other life-changing products and services from Fenix. This investment will contribute to ENGIE’s goal of providing 20 million people around the world with access to decarbonised, decentralised energy by 2020, using the latest digital technologies. Fenix’s strength within the home solar market in Africa will play a strategic part in the realisation of this goal, given the number of households that off-grid solar is expected to reach over the coming years. The World Bank has estimated that up to 99 million households, more than a third of those that are off-grid, will rely on home solar by 2020, with the market growing fastest in Africa.

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IT'S THAT TIME AGAIN! Look out for gifts sponsored by our generous advertisers in the #WozaDecember issue of Sparks Electrical News.

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER

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PERSONALITY OF THE MONTH: ANGEL MKHOMAZI

SUCCESS IS THE DIFFERENCE YOU MAKE IN PEOPLE’S LIVES

traditional Zulu man to work virtually hand-in-hand with a woman. Sparks: What major projects have you worked on and what is your greatest accomplishment? AM: When I worked at Machas Electrical Services, I worked on a number of projects where I worked on the electrical reticulations as a supervisor: Barlow Park, Sandton; Shosholoza Meyl Junction (an eight-storey building in Braamfontein); the Tweefontein Community Clinic; Rebel Fruit and Veg Market in Benoni; and Rochester Furniture store in the Mall@Reds. Every trainee who leaves our training centre knowing more than when they arrived is a success story to my way of thinking. Sparks: Who has been your inspiration or have you had a mentor who has influenced your career? AM: Mr Carlos Neves at Group Five became my ‘second father’. I will always be grateful for his mentorship. When I went to Group Five, I knew nothing about electricity and he took me under his wing and nurtured me along my career path. His unfailing guidance helped me to become a better electrician and taught me how to survive in this male-dominated industry. He wasn’t an easy person to work with but he brought out the best in me – I’ll never forget him or what he did for me. Sparks: What, to your mind, is one of the biggest challenges facing the industry at this time? AM: There is a serious lack of skilled labour and there are not enough trained artisans coming into the industry to address this shortage. The younger generation doesn’t seem to realise that there’s so much to being an electrician – they can go into building management or be an electrician on a filmset and travel the world. There are great AM: It’s very fulfilling to train people and see them grow day by day. Making a difference in my students’ career paths, that’s what I enjoy the most. Sparks: If you could ‘do it all again’, would you change anything? If so, what would that be? AM: I wouldn’t change anything. I love what I’m doing and, given the chance, would make the same choices. Sparks: Would you advise a person leaving school to enter the electrical industry? And why? AM: Yes, I would advise youngsters who have matriculated with maths and science to become electricians. The whole world is highly dependent on electricity, so by extension, the world is dependent on electricians in order for cities, towns and villages to be functional. And as more and more electrical technologies are invented and implemented, the need for electricians will continue to rise. Sparks: What is your advice to electrical contractors and/or electrical engineers? AM: I would say, to hire people who are smarter and more talented than you are. This will be the solution for any micro-management problems that you may have because you can trust them to handle any assignments on their own without your supervision. This gives you more time to focus on growing your contractor business plus you’ll learn a whole lot from them along the way. possibilities for qualified electricians out there. Sparks: What do you enjoy most about your job?

Sparks: What is your favourite quote? AM: “Success isn’t about how much money you make … it’s about the difference you make in people’s lives.” – Michelle Obama. Sparks: Name three things on your ‘bucket list’ (things you want to do before you ‘kick the bucket’). AM: Three thing on my bucket list are: to get my Master Installation Electrician qualification; to build a shelter for homeless children; and to go skydiving.

Angel Mkhomazi

ANGEL MKHOMAZI is the regional training officer at the ECA(SA)’s training centre in Meadowdale. She’s a qualified Installation Electrician and has been training artisans for the ECA for three years. Her bright outlook on life and her cheerful disposition make her a popular member of staff and a respected trainer. There isn’t one trainee who has gone through the ECA(SA)’s train- ing centre in the past three years who would not remember that he or she passed through Angie’s capable hands. She guides rather than pushes, encourages rather than belittles, and helps trainees to better themselves no matter the odds. Sparks: Where were you educated? AM: I matriculated at Eric Nxumalo High School in Bushbuckridge, Mpumulanga, in 1998 and then went on to study Electrical Engineering N5 at Ekurhuleni West College, graduating in 2003. Sparks: How long have you been involved in the electrical industry? AM: I’ve been in this industry for 12 years and have loved every minute of every day. Sparks: When and where did you start your career? AM: My career started in 2005 as an electrical apprentice with Group Five Plant and Equipment. Sparks: What are the greatest changes you have seen over the years? AM: For me, the greatest change is that women are now making their mark in this male-dominated industry, even though it’s not easy for some men to ‘digest’. I remember the first day that I and four other female apprentices went to the Group Five structural steel workshop – all the men stopped whatever they were busy with and stared at us as if we were aliens! You can just imagine how difficult it is for a

WORK CLOTHING WITH ACTIVE ILLUMINATION Together with uvex, Osram has brought its first products for textile illumination to series production. At the international trade fair for safety, security and health at work held in Dusseldorf during October, uvex presented safety vests and a softshell jacket equipped with active LED lighting from Osram. The tex- tile illumination is incorporated into the safety clothing and ensures greater visibility and hence safety in day-to-day work, for example, on construction sites or in road traffic. reflector strips on conventional work cloth- ing only reflect incident light, while the light modules ensure active illumination at all times, thus improving safety when working in the dark or in poor visibility conditions. The clothing can be washed in the wash- ing machine along with the integrated light guides. The light modules were tested last year under extreme conditions at an altitude of just under 3000 m in an ice hockey game played on the Zugspitze.

controlled using an app. Possible exam- ples include sports clothing that warns the wearer about a high pulse rate via the light guides, or a cycling jacket with an integrated brake light.

Enquiries: www.osram.com

The light modules are LED-based and an integrated part of the clothing. They are battery-powered via a USB port. The key advantage of the new technology is that

As the next step, Osram plans to com- bine light modules with sensor technology. This will allow various applications to be

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

NOVEMBER 2017

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FLAMEPROOF MOTORS FULLY EX CERTIFIED

T he WEG W22Xd flameproof motor, availa- ble from Zest WEG Group, meets worldwide standards for use in hazardous applications including the mining, chemical and oil and gas sectors. The W22Xd motor is certified in line with European ATEX and International IECEx standards. ATEX/IECEx certified, WEG W22Xd flameproof motors are designed to cope with the rigours and aggressiveness of explosive atmospheres, while de- livering the added benefits of high efficiency. Motors available with the IE2 or IE3 energy efficiency rating offer minimised noise, vibration, and low operating temperature for increased reliability and safety. The WEG W22Xd flameproof electric motor is

The WEG W22Xd

up to 11 kV. Following the introduction of motors in frame sizes 315 to 500, the range was extended in 2014 to include larger sizes through to a 710 frame. Complying with the latest editions of IEC/EN 60079 standards, the WEG W22Xd range allows Zest WEG Group to provide a comprehensive range of hazardous area motor products from IEC frame sizes 71 to 710. Features of the WEG W22Xd 560 to 710 frame design include a stainless steel tube array which provides air ducts allowing both axial and radial flow paths which optimise cooling of the rotor, stator and critical components such as the bearings. The mo- tor is fitted with an aerodynamic fan and cover for

classified for Group I (mines susceptible to fire- damp) and Group II (surface industries), for gases Group IIB and IIC, suitable for use in hazardous areas defined as Zone 1 and Zone 2 - Gases and Vapours, and Zone 21 and Zone 22 – Combustible or Ignitable Fibres. The advantage of one motor carrying dual certification for gas and dust is a reduction in inventory costs for users as a common motor frame can be used with different types and sizes of terminal boxes. Developed in 2002, the initial range of WEG flameproof motors covered the larger power output segment for low, medium and high voltage supplies

flameproof motor, available from Zest WEG Group, meets worldwide standards for use in hazardous applications including the mining, chemical and oil and gas sectors.

INNOVATIVE ONLINE SOLUTION FOR PROJECT REPORTING R oyal HaskoningDHV has taken another key step to deliver innovative solutions to accelerate decision-making and enable effective stakeholder management. The iReport is a new accessible online digital tool where pro- ject information is visual, enabling it to be rapidly reported, shared and understood at the touch of a button. By presenting projects in a digital and interac- tive way, the iReport cuts through the complexity of a multi-stakeholder project for it to be easily understood and accepted by the different parties involved. The iReport follows in the footsteps of the company’s digital EIS, an online tool that uses interactive visuals to revolutionise the way the re- sults of an Environmental Impact Assessment are interpreted and shared. Malcolm Roods, associ- ate director for Transport and Planning at Royal HaskoningDHV, said, “The iReport is digital, inter- active, visual and accessible with maps where you can move around and zoom into details. “It encompasses key elements such as multi- media and geographic information system (GIS) tools, and benefits a wide range of project reports; from corridor and feasibility studies tomasterplans and forecasting capacity studies. In addition, it has also been hailed as an environmentally friendly tool that has resulted in a decrease in the reliance on paper usage for reports. “Royal HaskoningDHV is pioneering the way project reports are shared and we envisage the iReport will transform the industry in the manner in which the digital EIS has done.” The iReport was used on the reporting of the Vincent Tshabalala Pedestrian Bridge project com- missioned by the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA). The regional development agency found the iReport to be of great value as a report- ing tool both internally and for all stakeholders. Enquiries: www.royalhaskoningdhv.com/iReport or #iReport efficient air flow with minimum noise. The cooling system on the flameproof motor provides outstanding heat dissipation. This reduces thermal stress on the insulating materials and facili- tates longer life. It also eliminates hot spots by pro- viding a uniform temperature distribution through- out the frame. The redesigned main terminal box of the WEG W22Xd flameproof motor incorporates fixing bolt housings that provide protection from impact and other environmental damage. This also prevents accumulation of water whilst providing generous space for easy connections. There are multiple options available for the main power terminal box and accessory terminal boxes for connecting motor protections such as current transformers, surge arrestors or surge capacitors. The WEG W22Xd flameproof motor is available with two, four, six or eight poles – with higher polari- ties available on request – in low and high voltage versions and with a range of outputs from 500 kW to 4500 kW. The frame has a robust welded steel construction and features solid integral feet to minimise vibration, complementing the low noise outputs. Enquiries: +27 (0)11 723 6000

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MONITOR AND SECURE ELECTRICAL ASSETS WITH POWERTAG®

new era. PowerTag® can be easily fitted without the need for complex wiring or additional space requirements, in reality it’s a five-minute installation to add a PowerTag® and you’re on and connected.” The compact, space-saving auxiliary fits easily into new and existing distribution boards. PowerTag® is na- tively integrated into Schneider Electric’s Acti 9 com- munication system to provide customers an all-in-one monitoring and control solution. It is available directly through Schneider Electric, or Schneider Electric author- ised distributors.

SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC has introduced PowerTag®, a small wireless energy sensor designed to enhance the monitoring of electrical assets. PowerTag® is built to connect to a miniature circuit breaker, add connectiv- ity, and provide building owners and facility managers with precise, powerful, and real-time data to increase the health of a facility’s strategic assets. Designed for any type of building, the energy sensor monitors and measures currents, voltages, power, power factor and energy. The connection enables greater availability of electrical assets by providing the ability to better manage critical loads – leading to higher reliability and efficiency of the electrical instal-

lation. Data is sent wirelessly to a concentrator to dis- play the data via inbuilt webpages or provide data for larger energy management systems or BMS. Data can also be leveraged to create customised e-mail alarms to assist facility managers with remote monitoring of their assets. “Customers are demanding for new solutions to meet critical challenges of building asset and energy manage- ment,” says James Calmeyer, vice president for Buildings South Africa at Schneider Electric. “PowerTag® provides the innovation to make asset and energy management simpler. The majority of circuit breakers can now be tagged bringing electrical distribution connectivity to a

Enquiries: www.schneider-electric.com/powertag

ELECTRICAL TEST AND MEASUREMENT METERS

FLIR Systems has announced the arrival of six test and measurement products, including two digital multimeters and a clamp meter that feature Flir’s IGM™ (Infrared Guided Measurement). Powered by the FLIR Lepton® microcamera thermal core, the FLIR DM166 and FLIR DM285 digital multimeters and the FLIR CM275 clamp meter feature a built- in screen to show heat caused by electrical faults, allowing professionals to find issues faster and more safely. All the latest FLIR electrical test and measure- ment products offer features that allow profes- sionals to efficiently test and troubleshoot electri- cal, electro-mechanical, and HVAC systems. The thermal imaging products offer the added benefit of visualising heat and highlighting temperature anomalies on a built-in display. Whether facing cluttered wires, complex panels, or clogged con- denser coils, IGM guides users without requiring any direct contact with the test site, increasing speed and user safety. The new products include: FLIR DM285: The 18-function FLIR DM285 is FLIR’s most advanced digital multimeter, measur- ing temperatures up to 400 °C. Along with IGM, the FLIR DM285 features onboard storage for meas- urements and images, as well as wireless connec- tivity to streamline the inspection process and sim- plify data collection, sharing, and reporting. FLIR CM275: FLIR’s newest,most advanced 600- amp ac/dc clamp meter offers IGM and a wide range of measurement functions. It includes a nar- row jaw, built-in worklights, and a screen that’s more than 40 percent larger than the previous model. FLIR DM166: FLIR’s most affordable digital multimeter and thermal imager combination, the FLIR DM166 features broad multimeter test func- tions, and the flexibility for use in high- and low- voltage applications. Each product has a rugged, drop-tested design and carries a 10-year warranty on both the product and the thermal detector. “With the introduction of these latest test and measurement products, FLIR has strengthened its already extensive and powerful suite of products for electrical professionals,” says Jim Cannon, president and CEO of Flir Systems. FLIR’s announcement includes three new pro- fessional-grade digital multimeters: the Flir DM91 with datalogging and wireless connectivity for in- dustrial or benchtop work; the FLIR DM66 offering a wide range of test features for electrical and field service professionals; and Flir’s most affordable, general-purpose multimeter, the FLIR DM62. The CM275, DM285, DM166, and DM91 will be available in the fourth quarter of 2017, while the DM62 and DM66 will be available in the first quar- ter of 2018. Enquiries: +27 (0)11 300 5622

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GETTING TO GRIPS WITH SANS 10142-1 BY HANNES BAARD

PUTTING LEGISLATION AND SABS PUBLICATIONS IN CONTEXT H ow amazing is it that we carry on with our daily tasks without actually thinking about the legal maze that is health and safety maintain, as far as is ‘reasonably practicable’ a work environment that is safe and without risk to the health of the worker. This means that the

Exclusions from the Act are as follows: • A mine, a mining area or any works as defined in the Minerals Act 50 of 1991, except insofar as the Act provides otherwise; (also refer the Mine Health and Safety Act (Act 29 of 1996). • Certain vessels are defined in the Merchant Shipping Act 57 of 1951; • The minister may grant exemptions from any or all the provisions of the Act; and • Labour brokers are not considered to be em- ployers in terms of this Act. The Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 requires the employer to bring about and

grouped, please scan the QR Code or visit www.sparkselectricalnewsmagazine.co.za to read the full article.

employer must ensure that the workplace is free of substances, articles, equipment, processes, etc. that will or may cause injury, damage or disease. Where this is not pos- sible, the employer must inform workers of these dangers, how to avoid them and how to work safely. The OHS Act itself is made up of 50 sections. To see how they are arranged and to see how the Regulations are

when we get out of bed each day and step into our offices, client premises or construction sites? Let alone travel to family or the supermarket? This got me thinking. We have discussed many topical issues over a long period of time (a good few years in fact), but I have never really paused to reflect on what actually rules our daily activities as electricians, electrical contractors and electrical engineers – consulting or otherwise. We just take things in our stride. Having worked our way through SANS 10142-1: from the 2003 version through to 2012: Edition 1.8, the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993) and Electrical Installation Regulations 2009, I found myself in a bit of a Catch-22 situation – where to from here? Do I immediately carry on with SANS 10142-1:2017 Edition 2, the Electrical Ma- chinery Regulations, General Machinery Regula- tions or what? And then it dawned on me, this is perhaps the perfect opportunity to put legislation and the SABS publications in context, with refer- ence to our electrical lives. Now, do not for one minute think that I am going to list each and every code of practice, standard, Act and Regulation! I thought that by looking at the most pertinent parts of the Act and Regulations, we could form a comprehensive picture of how things fit together. In the process, I summarised all the sections found in the Act and the Regulations. It makes for quick referencing without having to page through each of the twenty-plus publications. In this instalment, we’ll tackle the first five or so of them. By now we all know that we have to com- ply with the requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993). There are individuals in State Owned Companies and/ or Government Departments who think they are not part of the greater South African setup and are exempt from some or most of the Regula- tions, but I have news for them – they are just as liable to prosecution under the Act as any other South African business or entity. Closer to our industry, not all entities, certain mining opera- tions for instance, fall under the jurisdiction of an electrical installation as defined in SANS 10142, but the electrical installation in an underground mine must still comply with the Mine Health and Safety Act (Act 29 of 1996) – Regulation or Chapter 3 to be exact. No matter how intensively I search, I cannot get anything in the line of the Department of Labour’s Electrical Installation Regulations . makes me wonder. The above ground construction electrical industry suffers from individuals doing just about as they please. But, how is the mining industry (a much more dangerous environment) coping? What is the purpose of the Occupational Health and Safety Act? The purpose is to provide for the health and safety of persons at work and for the health and safety of persons connected with the use of plant and ma- chinery; the protection of persons other than per- sons at work against hazards to health and safety arising out of, or in connection with, the activities of persons at work; to establish an advisory council for occupational health and safety; and to provide for matters connected therewith. With the above in mind… what is the scope of this Act then? The scope of this Act is appropriately wide: it cov- ers private industry, as well as the public sector; the agricultural sector, domestic workers in private households and indeed also persons who are ex- posed to hazards even though this may not occur in the context of employment. In addition, the Min- ister may declare that a person or category of per- sons specified by him or her shall, for the purposes of the Act or a portion of the Act, be deemed to be an employee.

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NATURAL GAS: POWERING A REVOLUTION IN SOUTH AFRICA’S INDUSTRY

IN-CIRCUIT DEBUGGER KIT WITH FASTER PROCESSOR AND INCREASED RAM T he MPLAB ICD 4 in-circuit debugger from Microchip is an in-circuit programming and debugging (ICD) development tool for PIC® microcontrollers, including the latest PIC32C MCUs, and Microchip’s portfolio of dsPIC® digital signal controllers, via the MPLAB X Integrated Development Environment (IDE). This latest version of the MPLAB ICD includes not only all the features of the ICD 3 debugger, including support for all the head- ers of the ICD 3, but also delivers enhanced capabilities such as higher speed via a faster processor and increased RAM. The MPLAB ICD 4’s significant improvement in speed is accom- plished through a 32-bit MCU running at 300 MHz. Faster pro- cessing, together with an increased buffer memory of 2 MB, results in a product that is up to twice as fast as its predecessor. The MPLAB ICD 4 is housed in a durable black case that is shaped like an ice-hockey-puck. The case has a brushed alumini- um top that includes an LED light strip to show the device’s debug- ging status. Major features of the new ICD 4 include: a wide target voltage range, from 1.2 to 5.5 V; an optional 1 A external power sup- ply; a selectable pull up/pull down option to the target interface; data-integrity check; programmable adjustment of debugging speed for optimised programming; and JTAG debugging capability. In addition to the MPLAB ICD 4 in-circuit debugger module, the kit includes a USB cable, a 6-inch RJ-11 modular cable and an interface test module. The MPLAB ICD is connected to a PC via a high-speed USB 3.0-compatible interface and to the target via the RJ-11 connector, which is also compatible with the MPLAB ICD 3 and the MPLAB REAL ICE™ systems. Supporting Windows, OSX and Linux operating systems, the MPLAB X IDE has a power- ful and easy-to-use graphical user interface, simplifying designs for customers when they migrate from one PIC microcontroller to another. The Microchip MPLAB ICD 4 in-circuit debugger is available from RS Components.

THE increasing availability of natural gas in South Africa rep- resents a significant opportunity for industry to lower energy costs and improve profitability, while also moving towards cleaner emissions targets. This is being made possible through the development of a rapidly expanding gas distribution net- work by Virtual Gas Network (a division of CNG Holdings): the first commercial-scale supply of natural gas in South Africa, now available to businesses anywhere in a 300-km radius of Johannesburg. With limited historical access, natural gas in South Africa has been used primarily as feedstock for the production of synthetic fuels, but the discovery and development of extensive regional off-shore methane-rich gas fields (especially in Mozambique) means it can now be expanded to meet a much greater indus- trial demand. This will radically change the country’s energy dy- namic in the coming years as more and more companies seek to optimise their operational performance and reduce their reli- ance on coal-based power. Natural gas provides about one fifth of the world’s total en- ergy requirements, with industry accounting for around 40% of total gas consumption, concentrated mainly in food and bev- erage, pulp and paper, metals, chemicals, petroleum refining, glass, plastics and power generation (co- and tri-generation) industries. Boilers, furnaces, dehumidifiers, heaters and coolers, ovens, kilns and turbines can all be fired more efficiently via natural gas, which offers a consistent, high energy content of +/- 39.22 MJ (10.89 kWh) per m 3 that is significantly more cost-effective than coal-based fuels. Apart from lowering energy costs as a cheaper fuel, the cleaner combustion of natural gas also im- proves equipment and plant performance and reduces main- tenance by minimising the build-up of carbon residues and stench within components, which leads to increased production time. In the near future, the reduced emissions of natural gas – with up to 27% less CO 2 , NOX, HC and PM emitted than other fossil fuels – will become increasingly more critical as compa- nies look to avoid carbon tax penalties. Virtual Gas Network, together with fellow CNG Holdings divi- sion NGV Gas, has already converted a number of canneries,

manufacturing and assembly plants across a range of indus- tries in South Africa, in addition to fleets of warehouse forklifts in various storage and intralogistical applications, to gas. It does so through turnkey gas solutions that cover the supply and installation of all necessary conversion equipment, includ- ing a pressure regulating plant and all associated hoses, con- nectors, valves and civil work requirements, through to manag- ing the delivery of a constant supply of natural gas as required. Any industrial company within a 300-km radius of CNG Holdings’ main compression station in Langlaagte, Johannes- burg, can be supplied with gas. This includes businesses without direct access to the gas pipeline connecting Johannesburg and Pretoria, which can be serviced by Virtual Gas Network. This ‘virtual’ distribution network is an innovative road-based delivery system of compressed gas tube trailer modules each storing compressed gas for distribution to customers. CNG Holdings, through Virtual Gas Network, manages the continu- ous delivery and collection of gas tube trailers as required, en- suring a guaranteed energy supply on a pay-as-you-use basis. CNG Holdings, in partnership with the Industrial Develop- ment Corporation, is actively expanding this network to service a much wider geographic area, with Durban and Richards Bay soon to receive their first natural gas depots that will supply gas to the cities’ industries. CNG Holdings is a partner of the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC).

Enquiries: za.rs-online.com

Enquiries: www.cngholdings.co.za

ABSOLUTE ACCURACY WITH Hengstler ACURO ENCODER

ABSOLUTE ENCODERS are considered ideal for applications where a power outage requires ma- chinery to reorient without having to reconfigure any of its settings. This, according to Gerry Bryant, managing di- rector of sensor solutions specialist Countapulse Controls, is because an absolute encoder is suited to applications where positional information is re-

scenario described this is not sufficient. The en- coder cannot simply collect feedback data. It needs to be sent somewhere in a language that can be interpreted by the system. Bryant explains that ab- solute encoders use binary coding which can be translated into many different protocols. Countapulse Controls is the official southern African distributor for the Hengstler ACURO range

quired periodically and not continuously. “When power is restored, the system master or controller will identify the position as soon as the encoder starts relaying information again,” he ex- plains. Generally, absolute rotary encoders are used as these offer absolute accuracy in determining the position of an object, but as can be seen from the

of absolute encoders. These quality sen- sors have found fa- vour in applications where both speed and position are required, and where there is no room for error. Using a static ref- erence point, the Hengstler absolute encoder will deter- mine the speed or position of an object and can be configured to measure, monitor and control the linear movement and/or ac- celeration. Innovative engineering has re- sulted in an absolute

encoder that has optimised functionality while be- ing easy to operate. Designed as a modular system, the absolute encoder can be configured to allow the correct variant for an application taking fac- tors such as motor feedback and automation into account. The Hengstler ACURO is equipped with an open BiSS sensor interface allowing for optimal integration into any system. Johannesburg-based Countapulse Controls has an in-depth understanding of the application of absolute rotary encoders and is able to assist the market in selection of the best fit solution for a given application.

Enquiries +27 (0)11 615 7556

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RELIABLE AND FAST PRINTER

VHB TAPE GPH SERIES LAUNCHES IN SOUTH AFRICA

BUFFER MODULES BRIDGE CYCLICAL FAILURES LASTING UP TO 30 SECONDS

The BradyPrinter i7100 Industrial label printer is a reliable heavy-duty label printer that prints a wide range of high quality identification material for a variety of applications including cable, printed circuit board and asset and component identification. BradyPrinter i7100 offers highly accurate label printing for business critical high volume identification challenges. The printer features a powerful internal processor, up to 300 mm/sec print speed, 600 dpi ul- tra-sharp printing and is designed to handle up to 7000 labels per day. High printing accuracy is achieved through centre alignment of prints on a wide range of high quality identification materials for a variety of applications. The i7100 also features interchangeable platen rollers to optimise the print head life time. The new printer has an intuitive colour touch screen interface with distinctive icons for easy access to the printer’s menus. The printer’s foldable cover allows for a small system footprint and enables users to quickly change consumables to start a new job or continue printing. The i7100 can print on a wide range of high quality, durable and spe- cialty label identification materials for electronics, aerospace, defence and mass transit manufacturers, automotive, logistics, ICT Infrastructure and Telecom industries. Label materials include heat-shrinkable sleeves,

T he 3M VHB Tape GPH se- ries is a permanent bond- ing solution that can replace traditional mechanical fasteners and liquid adhesives in challeng- ing, high temperature applications. It uses a conformable, acrylic foam core to provide a good balance of strength and conformability. The new series helps break the barriers of traditional construction el- ements. It adheres instantly with high initial tack on a broad range of sub- strates like metal, glass, ABS plastics, rigid PVC, and polycarbonate. Appli- cation possibilities are almost end- less, and users can design projects with total freedom. The series has excellent tem- perature resistance and works under severe conditions. It combines high temperature resistance and multi material bonding. Its strong bond to metals, combined with a short term temperature resistance of up to +230 °C, make it ideal for permanent bonding even in tough high tempera- ture applications like powder coat or liquid painting. The soft foam provides excellent stress relaxation and gap filling. The conformability of 3M™ VHB™ Tape

GPH allows for a more complete bond contact area when bonding rigid or irregular materials. With the new series, projects will move ahead quickly, improving productivity and giving users the competitive edge. The tapes are simple and easy to apply. The strong ‘quick stick’ tech- nology creates high initial handling strength. They save time, costs and space as there is no need for cur- ing. The new series has increased initial tack over the existing range. The tapes bond on contact, making it easy to assemble, and can be cut to precise shapes and sizes for custom applications. The product offers virtually invis- ible fastening that helps keep sur- faces smooth and clean to enhance design and appearance. Whether it’s signs, POS, appliances, metal fabri- cated panels or many other applica- tions, users can design and improve the durability of products while en- hancing the aesthetics. The series sets a new benchmark for the most demanding markets, including metalworking, appliance, specialty vehicle and signage.

The new maintenance-free Quint CAP buffer mod- ule from Phoenix Contact bridges cyclical failures lasting up to 30 seconds. It combines an electronic switch-over unit and maintenance-free, capacitor- based energy storage in the same housing. The lockable USB interface for connection to higher- level controllers makes it convenient to shut down the PC. The buffer module with double-layer capaci- tors offers a long buffer time thanks to high memory capacity. 5 or 10 A can be buffered for 30 seconds. Thanks to their compact design, the modules save space in the control cabinet. Furthermore, with over 20 years at 20°C and more than 500 000 charge/ discharge cycles, they have a long service life. The soft start means that the buffer modules can also be used in combination with power supplies in the low power range. Thanks to the comprehensive signal- ling options and the wide temperature range from -40°C to +60°C, they support flexible use.

high heat labels for printed cir- cuit boards and durable asset and component labels with high abrasion, chemical, temperature and UV-resistance. To further in- crease the printer’s versatility and automation compatibility, add- ons and accessories are available including a variety of label cutting systems, rewinders, sensors and technologies such as ‘peel & pre- sent’ to automatically separate a label from its liner.

Enquiries: +27 (0)11 801 8200

www.3M.com

Enquiries: emea_request@bradycorp.com

TRAINEES COMPLETE MODULES AT ECA(SA) TRAINING CENTRE

NEW ACQUISITION GIVES PERSPEX SOUTH AFRICA THE INNOVATIVE EDGE

Two groups of trainees working towards their Construction Electrician trade at the ECA(SA) training centre in Meadowdale, completed their courses (Modules 0 to 3, and Modules 4 to 6) at the beginning of September. They are: Joseph Sengwane; Siyabonga Khoza; Shepard Madzhivadondo; Lennox Phala; Tylan Armstrong; Dovhani Mbave;

PERSPEX SOUTH AFRICA has recently acquired leading lighting business, Wired 4 Signs. The reason for this strategic acquisition is to further strengthen its position in the market. This will enable the company to provide its customers with more comprehensive and innovative solutions. Complementing Perspex South Africa’s existing products such as Perspex® LED Spectrum, Perspex® Cast Acrylics as well as extruded acrylics, the wide range of LED and lighting solutions will add a new dimension to Perspex South Africa’s business. The offering in various lighting solutions, will ensure cus- tomers have more to choose from, and will offer add-

ed technical support. A wide selection of industries will benefit from this acquisition and can look forward to convenient and holistic lighting solutions. “Our passion for creativity, backed by our promise to provide solutions to our customers is evident with this acquisition and we are excited about the new op- portunities it is sure to bring with it,” says Perspex SA managing director, Stuart Hughes. Perspex South Africa is set to take over fromOcto- ber 2017, and is looking forward to adding value to its existing and new customers through this acquisition.

Emmanuel Nkuna; Mpho Tshikalaha; Masithembe Tengile and Angie Mkhomazi (ECA regional training officer).

Enquiries: www.perspex.co.za

OLFA’S GREEN SERIES OF CUTTERS

J apanese cutter giant, Olfa, has launched a range of environment friendly cutters made from recycled material. Equal durability and blade sharpness are incorporated into its green models and all the handles are made from 100% recycled plastic. “When it comes to new products, innovation and development, the Olfa Company is a leader and has cutting solutions for every con- ceivable market,” says Ryan Hunt, sales director of Vermont Sales. The Green series consists of: • ES-1/Green: Auto-lock, standard-duty model with a pocket clip/ blade snapper, for right- and left-handed users. The handle and all plastic parts are made from 100% recycled materials. With easy disassembly for next recycling, the ES-1 is a Japanese Eco- marked product authorised by JEA, and conforms to Japanese law on promoting green purchasing. • SK-4/Green: This auto-retracting blade safety knife cuts back on injuries. It is for right- and left-handed users and the handle and all plastic parts are made from 100% recycled materials without sacrificing durability and handle comfort. • SK-7/Green: The compact auto-retracting blade safety cutter is designed with a lighter weight, and fits most hand sizes. For both right- and left-handed users, the flush and low-positioned blade slider reduces accidental blade exposure while inside a pocket. Easily disassembled for next recycling, it is a Japanese Eco-

marked product authorised by JEA and conforms to Japanese law on promoting green purchasing. • L-1/Green: The original and the world’s most popular multi-pur- pose heavy-duty cutter also has an environment-friendly version. The handle is made from recycled ABS without sacrificing its original durability and hand feeling and the cutter conforms to Japanese law on promoting green purchasing.

Enquiries: +27 (0)11 314 7711

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

NOVEMBER 2017

STANDBY AND EMERGENCY POWER

BUYER'S GUIDE

10

MANUFACTURERS

CONTACT

CONTACT

EMERGENCY LIGHTING

Voltex Lighting Mark Storer Waco Industries Jaco Coetzee Webber Electrical Contractors Michiel Coetzee Zest WEG Group Sales GENSETS AND ACCESSORIES

Denver Technical Products High power mains fail safety lighting for fire trucks, civil defence, construction, general maintenance, high power handheld floodlights, battery operated; trailer mounted floodlighting for construction, civil defence, rail maintenance up to 4 x 1 000 W HPS lamps powered by onboard diesel generator; handheld explosion- proof (intrinsically safe torches) for inspection, petro- chemical industry, sewers, water, aircraft, shipping, etc Electrahertz Full range of emergency lighting Eurolux LED emergency light; rechargeable portable emergency lights Genlux Lighting Full range of emergency lighting JDL Electric Full range of emergency lighting Legrand SA Full range of indoor and outdoor LED emergency lighting luminaires Magnitech Emergency lighting; battery backup and battery cycling units; bulkheads Major Tech Full range of portable lighting ideal for power outages, camping, fishing, hiking, hotel, office and warehouse applications; available in fluorescent and LED models Matelec Duotech (dual par 38 lamps with motion sensor); maintained and non-maintained fixed 8W emergency lighting; rechargeable and removable 2 x 8 W emergency lighting MCE Electric O-Lite rechargeable portable LED floodlights Nordland Lighting Full range of emergency lighting Radiant Group Floodlight LED aluminium 12 W battery back-up; rechargeable camping emergency lanterns LED battery 1.6 and 2.4; motion sensor LED plus flashlight emergency lights 40/35 and 35/18 lumen; exit light 230 V LED with backup; LED lamps A60 5 W E27 and B22 4 000 K with backup Silicon Engineering Lead acid and/or nickel cadmium batteries Sinetech Solar lighting for highways, complexes, parks, gardens, shopping centres, etc. Superlume A range of emergency lighting Voltex Distributors of emergency exit and other signs; emergency control gear for fluorescent lights Voltex Lighting Distributors of emergency exit and other signs; emergency control gear for fluorescent lights Waco Industries Distributors of emergency exit and other signs; emergency control gear for fluorescent lights Webber Electrical Contractors Installer of emergency lighting BATTERIES FOR EMERGENCY APPLICATIONS ACDC Dynamics Full range of batteries and backup solutions such as UPS systems, invertors, etc ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of batteries for emergency applications Arrow Altech Distribution Lithium iron phosphate battery management solution

Atlas Group Annie Storar or Imran Gaffoor

ACTOM Protection and Control Aurora Lighting Ausma BEKA Schréder Brother Intenational SA Eurolux

Aurora Lighting Warwick Webber Ausma Sales BEKA Schréder Jason Smith Bellco Fred Wilson Brother Intenational SA Munna Desai Citilec Jeff Forman Cummins SA Sales Denver Technical Products Mervyn Stocks Electrahertz Frank Proude (Pta) Peet Lourens (Jhb) Electromechanica Debbie Venter Eurolux Pattrick Stuckie ExSolar Solar Solutions Sales Genlux Lighting Glen Hill

LEDVANCE Legrand SA Magnitech

Matelec Megger NewElec

ACDC Dynamics Wide variety of domestic, commercial and industrial generators and accessories ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of gensets and accessories Atlas Group Gensets and accessories available according to customer specifications Bellco Gensets and accessories available according to customer specifications Citilec Gensets and accessories Cummins SA Full range of gensets and accessories Electrahertz Full range of gensets and accessories Electromechanica Full range of gensets and accessories JDL Electric Full range of gensets and accessories MCE Electric MCE petrol generator sets Sinetech Inverters – single-phase, three-phase, grid tie, off grid and hybrid Vert Energy Full range of gensets and accessories Voltex Gensets and accessories available according to customer specifications Webber Electrical Contractors ACDC Dynamics Extensive range of emergency lighting in various brands and options including Gewiss; emergency lighting for buildings, mining and automotive applications ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of emergency lighting Atlas Group Distributors of Voltex Lighting emergency exit and other signs; emergency control gear for fluorescent lights Aurora Lighting Extensive range of emergency lighting including emergency signage lighting Ausma Full range of emergency lighting BEKA Schréder Full range of emergency lighting Bellco Distributors of emergency exit and other signs; emergency control gear for fluorescent lights Citilec Full range of emergency lighting Installer of gensets Zest WEG Group Full range of gensets and accessories EMERGENCY LIGHTING

Nordland Lighting Phoenix Contact Power Process Systems Silicon Engineering Superlume

Three-D Agencies Zest WEG Group DISTRIBUTORS

ACDC Dynamics ARB Electrical Wholesalers Arrow Altech Distribution Atlas Group Aurora Lighting Ausma Bellco Citilec Cummins SA Denver Technical Products Electrahertz Electromechanica Eurolux ExSolar Solar Solutions Genlux Lighting HellermannTyton JDL Electric Magnet Electrical Supplies Magnitech Major Tech Mantech Electronics Matelec MCE Electric Power Process Systems Radiant Group Voltex Lighting Waco Industries Webber Electrical Contractors Zest WEG Group CONTACT ACDC Dynamics Sales ACTOM Protection and Control Faisal Hoosen ARB Electrical Wholesalers Sales Arrow Altech Distribution Sales Regal Distributors Silicon Engineering Sinetech Superlume Three-D Agencies Vert Energy Voltex

HellermannTyton Andrew Edwards

JDL Electric Ashveer Lalla LEDVANCE James Clifford Legrand SA Johan Bosch

Magnitech: Amar Singh Major Tech: Werner Grobbelaar Mantech Electronics Manny Moutinho Matelec Jan Leclezio MCE Electric Sales Megger Sales NewElec Luc Dutrieux Nordland Lighting Johann Lamprecht Phoenix Contact Carl Coetzer Power Process Systems

Michael du Toit Radiant Group Alfred Weldon Silicon Engineering Chris Hanson Sinetech Chris Rodgers Stone-Stamcor Mark Talbot Superlume Willie Garbers Three-D Agencies Mark Jenkins Vert Energy Grant Robertson Voltex Hugh Ward

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

NOVEMBER 2017

BUYER'S GUIDE

STANDBY AND EMERGENCY POWER

11

BATTERIES FOR EMERGENCY APPLICATIONS UPS

OTHER

Silicon Engineering BAE – Berlin industrial stationary lead acid batteries Sinetech UPS for all applications: 650 VA to 800 kVA State Power Stockist of UPSs Voltex Distributors of UPSs in various kVA ratings Webber Electrical Contractors Installer of UPSs LIGHTING FOR HAZARDOUS AREAS ACDC Dynamics Distributor of Halo Lighting Solutions including LED strip lighting systems; wide range of flameproof and explosion- proof lighting ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of lighting for hazardous areas Atlas Group Distributors of luminaires for hazardous areas BEKA Schréder Full range of luminaries for hazardous areas Bellco Distributors of luminaires for hazardous areas Ausma Full range of luminaires for hazardous areas Citilec Full range of lighting for hazardous areas Denver Technical Products Wolf safety lamps and Smith Light LED lighting for industrial work areas Electrahertz Full range of lighting for hazardous areas Eurolux Vapour-proof fluorescent fittings; CFL enclosed ‘bullet’ Genlux Lighting Full range of lighting for hazardous areas JDL Electric Full range of lightingnfor hazardous areas Legrand SA Full range of indoor and outdoor LED emergency lighting luminaires MCE Electric O-Lite LED floodlights from 10 W to 200 W Nordland Lighting Full range of lighting for hazardous areas Radiant Lighting Full range of lighting for hazardous areas Superlume Hazardous area bulkheads and vapour proofs Voltex Distributors of luminaires for hazardous areas Voltex Lighting Distributors of luminaires for hazardous areas Webber Electrical Contractors Installer of luminaires for hazardous areas OTHER ACDC Dynamics Large lighting offering including decorative, LED and general lighting applications ACTOM Protection and Control General protection relays ARB Electrical Wholesalers Electrical cables and wiring accessories; electrical contractors’ materials

Atlas Group Full range of cables and wires as well as a range of overhead line equipment, mini subs and transformers Bellco All electrical industrial and commercial products as well as the associated accessories; Elespec power quality PFC and monitoring; MV and LV panels Brother International SA Labelling Citilec LED energy efficient lighting Denver Technical Products Hannay reels for cable management Eurolux Inverters ExSolar Solar Solutions Backup solar UPS solutions, solar DIY kits, solar camping kits, solar batteries, solar panels and solar HellermannTyton TBM869 top of the range Brymen multimeter with true RMS, 500 000 count display and two-year warranty for testing gensets LEDVANCE OSRAM LED lamps, luminaires Major Tech Major Tech’s three-in-one emergency sensor light can be used as an emergency power failure light, infra motion sensor light and flashlight Mantech Electronics Large range of solar panels, solar regulators, power supplies, instruments, meters, cabling and accessories Megger Protection: cable fault, transformer, circuit breaker, battery and low voltage NewElec Three-phase motor protection and control relays for low voltage motors Nordland Full range of LED luminaires Phoenix Contact Surge protection, energy measurement, marking printers and materials Power Process Systems Electrical enclosures and change-over systems with control Radiant Group Occupancy sensor indoor 360° 1 200 W; hand dryer with CPU control and sensor airflow 95 m/s; LED floodlight and sensor aluminium 10 W and 20 W outdoor Silicon Engineering Stationary batteries for substation protection and switching – lead acid and nickel cadmium Sinetech PV solar panels; solar charge controllers; solar cable; surge protection; lightning protection; sole distributor in the SADC region for AEG Solar product range – polycrystalline and monocrystalline PV solar panels and inverters. Appointed service centre in Africa for the Victron, Outback Power and OmniPower range of products. Superlume Solar LED floodlights with battery pack

Atlas Group Distributors of Solid State Power inverters in various sizes Aurora Lighting Extensive range of battery backups for LED light fittings Bellco Distributors of inverters in various sizes Citilec Full range of batteries for emergency applications Electrahertz Full range of batteries for emergency applications Electromechanica Full range of batteries for emergency applications JDL Electric Full range of batteries for emergency applications Mantech Electronics Full range of sealed lead acid (SLA) batteries in regular, deep cycle and gel types Radiant Group LED panel emergency backup: metal case, 3 m cable, 6 A plug; spare emergency backup for LED; backup 12 V 50 W remote/maintained; remote backup for fluorescent 6 – 65 W magnetic 1H00 five cell Regal Distributors Batteries for emergency applications Silicon Engineering Lead acid or nickel cadmium batteries Sinetech Lead acid and lithium Ion batteries for solar and standby use Stone-Stamcor Yuasa sealed lead acid batteries Voltex Distributors of inverters in various sizes Webber Electrical Contractors Installer of batteries for emergency applications PUMPS FOR EMERGENCY APPLICATIONS ACDC Dynamics Variety of pumps for most applications including solar pumping systems Webber Electrical Contractors Installer of pumps for emergency applications UPS ACDC Dynamics Comprehensive range of UPSs ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of UPSs Atlas Group Distributors of Solid State Power UPSs in various kVA ratings Bellco Distributors of UPSs in various kVA ratings Citilec Full range of UPSs Electrahertz Full range of UPSs Eurolux UPS inverters JDL Electric Full range of UPSs Legrand SA Full range of modular, conventional and line-interactive UPS Mantech Electronics Vast stocks of inverters and UPSs Phoenix Contact 24 Vdc rack mountable devices

010 202 3300

011 207 5600

012 345 5332

011 608 2970

011 879 6600

011 234 4878

011 872 5500

Three-D Agencies Cable accessories Voltex Electrical cables and wire accessories Webber Electrical Contractors Undertake complete electrical installations

011 683 0641

Arrow Altech Distribution Protection modules; SPDs

Regal Distributors Stockists of UPSs

011 386 0000

011 879 2000

011 723 6000

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

NOVEMBER 2017