Sparks Electrical News October 2018

OCTOBER 2018

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

www.sparkselectricalnewsmagazine.co.za

REGULARS: CONTRACTORS’ CORNER | BUYERS' GUIDE : MOTOR CONTROL CENTRES AND MOTOR PROTECTION | FEATURES : ENERGY MEASUREMENT AND SUPPLY | LIGHTING

CONTINUING THE WAR ON COUNTERFEITS

I n the electrical industry in South Africa, counterfeits are estimated to be a multi-million-rand problem. From circuit breakers that do not trip when they should to batteries without vents for built-up gases to grounding rods with only a fraction of the required copper coating, counterfeit electrical products fail to meet standards and pose risks of injury and even death. Fur- thermore, contractors may be liable if they install a counterfeit product and, for years, manufacturers have considered contractors to be the men and women on the front lines in the battle against counterfeiters. During September, an international webinar was held where Eaton presented its investigation of counterfeit electrical products. Tom Grace, who has spent more than 10 years focusing on the impact of counterfeiting on Eaton and the electrical industry, notes that to combat counterfeiting, companies are moving towards dynamic marking (rather than adhesive labels) such as laser marking serial numbers directly onto the product itself and making it harder for coun- terfeiters to replicate. The company has also developed a mobile app, named PowerEdge, which allows electrical contractors to scan the serial number of a circuit breaker to authenticate the product in the field. Marketing specialist, Erika Healy, who works in the Gulf Region to ensure distributors understand the dangers of purchasing from unauthorised resellers says, “For contractors, the biggest reason to be concerned about counterfeit electrical products is the liability and risk you take on. Apart from your liveli- hood and your reputation, the safety of people in the area where you installed the item is also at stake.” She suggests, whenever possible, buying from an authorised distribution channel such as an authorised reseller or manufacturer’s representative, and alerting the manufacturer if you come across any suspect products. “This mitigates the risks of contractors installing products with un- known origins,” she says. In one of South Africa’s highest profile counterfeiting cases, in 2016, for his role in importing nearly 124 000 counterfeit CBi electric: low voltage earth leakage devices and circuit breakers from China, Abdool Kadar Omar Khan – sole proprietor of a business trading under Ak- ronix and South Star Technologies, in Lenasia – was convicted in the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court, Johannesburg, for contravening the Counterfeit Goods Act 37 of 1997 and the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) Act 5 of 2008. A raid at Khan’s premises in November 2011 uncovered 17683 coun- terfeit CBi earth leakage devices and circuit breakers. It was discovered that, of the imported consignments of these safety critical protection devices, 106 295 counterfeit devices had already been sold. Conse- quently, according to court papers, it was estimated that the people who lived and worked in at least 25 000 businesses and homes were poten- tially exposed to “significant risk”, including fire, electrocution and death. “We are aware of another practice which, although not strictly coun- terfeiting, is still detrimental to business,” says Ryan Burger, Divisional product Manager: Tools & Instruments at HellermannTyton. “We have encountered suppliers who simply change our casing and sell the prod- uct to a competitor – our Intellectual Property (IP), with exactly the same specs and identical inside – just with a different name. We have been fighting this for years, but it is a losing battle,” he says. How do you combat counterfeiting? “You just have to try and make it more difficult for counterfeiters,” answers Burger. “Ensure that serial numbers are on all products for tracking purposes and, for users, be vigi- lant and make sure you are purchasing through the correct channels.” A spokesperson for a respected brand in the electrical industry in South Africa notes that there are more and more counterfeit products entering the continent. “It is virtually impossible to control as containers belonging to larger companies are the ones that are checked because the companies involved will take responsibility if something is incorrect. Smaller importers who bring in a container now and then are hardly ever scrutinised. These, however, affect the

market and get sold into the industry; a recent case being inferior cables, sold through China City markets, which have been used by electricians in installations. We have standards in Southern Africa, however, we do not have the manpower to enforce the safety standards.” With counterfeiting of well-known brands estimated to have cost $1.77 tril- lion worldwide in 2015, and with no sign this of letting up, Eaton is on a drive to educate the industry, professionals and the general public through the four following points: Counterfeits pose danger: Using counterfeit electrical products can result in a higher risk of failure or malfunction. Such failures may result in electrical shock, overheating or short circuits, leading to equipment failure, fires or explo- sions that can cost people their lives and cause considerable property damage Counterfeits are hard to spot: All well-known brands face the issue of coun- terfeiting. Counterfeit product manufacturers rely on deception, the Internet, and prices below market level to find their way into homes, businesses, and commercial and industrial facilities. The more sophisticated counterfeiters be- come, the more difficult counterfeit products are to identify. You can help: Buy from authorised resellers. The best way to avoid counter- feit electrical products is if you can trace the path of commerce to the original manufacturer. If every individual along a product’s supply chain played an active role in stopping counterfeit products frombeing bought and sold, the demand for counterfeit electrical products would decrease. Reducing the spread of counterfeit electrical products can help to ensure maximum electrical safety protection. How to report a counterfeit: If you identify a counterfeit in the field, report it to the brand owner. This will allow authentication of the suspect product and ensure that it is removed from the marketplace. The manufacturer can then report the violation to the relevant authorities and industry bodies. CONTINUED ON PAGE 21

PERSONALITY OF THE MONTH – SHAUN SINGH

EXTOLLING THE VIRTUES OF HARD WORK

Sparks: Have you won any awards? SS: I have won numerous awards internally within JDL.

Sparks: Name three things on your ‘bucket list’. SS: To become the National Sales Director of the 10 plus branches we are going to open and increase our African footprint; JDL must manufacture and distribute the best quality PVC conduit and trunking at the best price into the electrical arena; and to fish for – and land – a Nile Perch.

Sparks: Who has been your inspiration or have you had a mentor who has influenced your career? SS: My father and, most recently, Mr Willie Maree, who is currently moulding me into the best I can be. My current CEO, Mr Lee Kritzinger, has lead by example and imparted the attitude of ‘go big or go home’. With great risk comes great reward, never give up until you have succeeded. Life is a series of choices, surround yourself with people who share your passion and vision and you will be unstoppable. Sparks: What, to your mind, is one of the biggest challenges facing the industry at this time? SS: The sustainability of our energy production is one of the biggest challenges currently facing our industry. Sparks: What do you enjoy most about your job? SS: Leading my team; skills transfer and nurturing their growth so they are able to reach their full potential. Sparks: How do you motivate your staff? SS: I have invested time in my staff, I know them individually and what makes them tick. What inspires me may not inspire them, what works for one will not necessarily work for another. My motivation is based on appealing to their highest core values and allowing them to speak their minds and share their views. Also, to create a sense of belonging and a great working environment for all. My staff do what they love and love what they do; it is not a job but a career path with endless opportunities to grow. Sparks: Would you advise a person leaving school to enter the electrical industry? SS: Yes, for sure. There will always be a need for power and energy, the scope to grow is enormous and there is not a single day that goes by that you don’t learn something new. It’s a daily challenge, but hard work works. Sparks: What is your advice to electrical contractors and/or electrical engineers? SS : If you want to be the best, then deal with the best. JDL is your number one, one-stop-shop. Sparks: If you could ‘do it all again’, would you change anything? SS: No, everything is as it should be.

Enquiries: +27 (0)11 315 4826

Shaun Singh

SHAUN SINGH, Sales Director at JDL Electric, has a rich 23 year history in the electrical industry, with the last 14 at JDL Electric. He is a strong advocate of hard work, and believes that if you do what you love and love what you do; then it is not a job but a career path with endless opportunities to grow. Sparks: Where were you educated? SS: I studied Mechanical Engineering at the Technikon Witwatersrand from 1994-1996.

Sparks: How long have you been involved in the electrical industry? SS: I have been working in the electrical industry for 23 years.

Sparks: When and where did you start your career? SS: I started my career in 1996 at Ideal Electrical and Mining Supplies.

Sparks: What are the greatest changes you have seen over the years? SS: The move to alternate power and energy saving.

Sparks: What major projects have you worked on and what is your greatest accomplishment? SS: One of the major projects I have worked on was the BAIC vehicle production plant in Port Elizabeth, and my greatest accomplishment has been being appointed as a Director of JDL.

Sparks: What is your favourite quote? SS: “Hard work works”.

TEN STEPS TO A SUCCESSFUL ELECTRICAL REFURB A ward winning engineering solutions provider Boulting has released an in- fographic detailing ten top tips for engineers to share in its wealth of knowledge and experience by providing ten key areas to consider before beginning an electrical refurbishment. Topics in the infographic include surveys, impact of downtime and the importance of having a contingency plan.

purchased and commissioned, and is often working without fault, our aim is to keep the equipment in use for as long as realistically possible. Regular maintenance and effective refurbishment are crucial aspects of this,” concludes Meagh.

engineers who are carrying out electrical re- furbishments. The infographic highlights the most important aspects of the refurbishment process and educates plant managers about the importance of each stage. The infographic is free to download from the Boulting website, www.boulting.co.uk Every piece of electrical equipment in a plant requires regular maintenance and refurbishment. There is no one-size-fits-all process for refurbishment since all plants, and the equipment inside them, are different. The areas of consideration, however, remain the same. Boulting understands that, regardless of a project’s scale, a tried and tested refurbishment protocol is essential to ensuring successful completion of a project and a site that remains safe at all times. Its new infographic allows

“Electrical refurbishments are an integral part of our business and we are proud of our reputation of executing these complicated jobs to an extremely high standard,” says Paul Meagh, electrical and instrumentation director at Boulting. “The maintenance of electrical equipment is often overlooked, but it is essential for the equipment to be operating as efficiently as possible in order to ensure running costs are minimised and to extend the life of existing assets. “Asset life extension is a concept that is popular with plant engineers, who wish to have long intervals between replacing equipment. As their current equipment has already been

Enquiries: www.boulting.co.uk

Scan QR code to read Ten steps to a successful electrical refurb

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

OCTOBER 2018

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER

4

SCALABLE LOW-VOLTAGE SWITCHGEAR

VOLTEX MANAGEMENT AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

O pening up new possibilities in intelligent devices, IoT and cloud technology, MNS® Digital from ABB Ability™ LV switchgear ensures you are ready for Industry 4.0. It gathers critical process data and, with the integrated ABB Ability™ condition monitoring for electrical systems, tells you what’s going on across your operations. In other words, because it sees everything, you see everything. 1. Customise: Easily set up and upgrade equip- ment to meet exact requirements with MNS Digital’s modular platform. 2. Analyse: Critical process data from across op- erations is always available in the cloud.

3. Optimise: With insights from the data, make necessary adjustments to maximise the perfor- mance of equipment. 4. Economise: Increase efficiency and reduce costs across operations. “With MNS Digital switchgear you can start your own industrial revolution,” says Ralf Heinemeyer, managing director of ABB’s Electrification Solutions business unit. “The transition to Industry 4.0 and Maintenance 4.0 requires truly flexible, scalable and modular switchgear platforms, which have cutting- edge intelligence and IoT built-in. We are committed to developing these next generation solutions, which allow our customers to have access to the right in-

formation at the right time, supporting fast and ac- curate decision making and enabling operating cost savings of up to 30 percent.”

Enquiries: +27 (0)10 202 6995

VOLTEX (PTY) LTD, South Africa’s largest electri- cal and lighting distributor prides itself on setting the benchmark for service and performance ex- cellence in the industry. To achieve this standard requires a purposeful and determined pursuit of going above and beyond expectations. The Voltex Group recognises the contributions made by individuals, business units and branches in achieving exceptional standards of excellence. These efforts were acknowledged and celebrated at the annual Voltex Management awards, held at the beginning of September at its head office in Senderwood. Voltex Management congratulates all the well- deserved winners. “I would hasten to add that we regard all of the Voltex team as winners in all they do to make our Group a better one,” said Stan Green, CEO of Bidvest Electrical after presenting the awards. Voltex supplies the widest range of electrical and related products through its 19 supply divisions and 58 distribution outlets strategically located across Southern Africa. Through this diverse network, Voltex services the agricultural, mining, manufacturing, construction, wholesale, electrical and communication sectors with a variety of products and services. These include, inter alia, energy efficient products, cable and wiring, power generation and optimisation, transmission and distribution, motor control solutions, commercial, industrial and residential lighting applications and a host of other highly specialised services.

Enquiries: www.voltex.co.za

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

OCTOBER 2018

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER

6

COMBINING MINING EXPERTISE WITH DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES P articipating in the biggest Mining and Industrial tradeshow in Africa, Siemens presented its Digital Mining solutions at Electra Mining 2018. As a leading provider of efficient, sustainable and class leading equipment to mining companies in Africa, the company real time, to enable fast decisions based on facts and figures. • The TIA Portal Cloud Connector – A communication tunnel which enables central management of engineering software. • Design thinking and product technology workshops.

we can create an entire virtual reality version of your plant, it provides a platform to simulate tasks before carrying them out in the real world. It is ideal for simulating maintenance tasks and training,” he added. “With our integrated approach, solutions for the digitalisation of plants and processes, and profound industry expertise, we can help improve overall plant performance,” noted Ralf Leinen, Vice President for Siemens Digital Factory and Process Industries and Drives. This includes connecting the virtual world with the real world, addressing core elements such as plant life cycle management, plant design and engineering, process simulation and digital twins, virtual commissioning, automation and operations, maintenance and services, and finally closing the loop by feeding data analytics back into the plant model.

• Mindsphere – Siemens’ cloud-based, open IoT operating system that connects products, plants, systems, and machines, enabling customers to harness the wealth of data generated by the Internet of Things (IoT) with advanced analytics. Gerhard Hattingh, Siemens Digital Strategy Director took Sparks Electrical News through the stand and explained how technologies are available today to help mining companies increase digitalisation and, at the same time, tackle the woes plaguing the industry. “These technologies allow you to manage the entire lifecycle of a plant, as all of the disciplines come together in a single digital environment. On the VR side, where

offers solutions tailored to the region’s needs. Some of the highlights at the booth included:

• Process Automation – Visitors could discover how engineering and plant management software COMOS enables the complete plan- ning of all major disciplines of a plant. • Virtual Reality – A COMOS Walkinside where complete plant data can be visualised in 3D, offering the possibility of a virtual tour through the plant. • Information on how the Operations Intelligence Software XHQ col- lects and aggregates all relevant plant, process and business data in

Enquiries: +27 (0)11 652 3165

NEW PROFESSIONAL MULTIFUNCTION MULTIMETER FROM HELLERMANNTYTON N ot just a multimeter, the new Jupiter from HellermannTyton, which became available at the beginning of October, is the only multimeter capable of testing electrical installation safety. It compares each measurement with the limits provided by the SANS10142 guidelines, and provides a clear OK/NOT OK result. In a portable, rugged and compact package, it features functions previously only available in high-end instruments, and allows a wide range of external transducers to measure AC TRMS, DC, AC+DC, and inrush current. Features include: • TRMS • AC/DC voltage up to 690V with LoZ input • Frequency • One-lead phase sequence detection • PSCC and Loop Impedance calculation • Dynamic inrush currents of motors. • Tripping time and current of RCD/ELCBs up to 300 mA • THD% calculation up to 25th Harmonic • Earth Ground resistance L-N, L-L, L-E • Low impedance voltage input to eliminate ghost voltage readings • 6000 counts • Backlit display • A host of optional accessories • Comes standard with calibration certificate • Measurement Category IV 600 • Two year warranty “We have received very positive feedback from customers about the Jupiter,” says Marius Kempenaars, Technical Specialist: Tools and Instruments at HellermannTyton, who has been introducing the multimeter to customers prior to its official launch. “Essentially it is a mini compliance tester, which comes with four of the six compulsory testers, namely earth leakage, loop, voltage and phase rotation testing.” “For any electrician, a multimeter is essential in day-to-day work,” says Ryan Burger, Divisional Product Manager: Tools & Instruments at HellermannTyton. “The Jupiter allows electricians to complete their work quicker, safer and with less tools on site. The multimeter also includes a quick- release battery compartment and two test lead holders on the back for easy two-hand testing.” Kempenaars notes that in the future he sees smart multifunction multimeters coming standard with no selection dial – eliminating user errors – and incorporating Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for quick data transfers. The Jupiter is the precursor to a range of new products, notably the Mercury (due for release in January 2019) and the Neptune. The Jupiter is on promotion from 1 October to 30 November 2018 for R6524.64 (list price: R9570), including a limited number of free 400A clamps worth R3700. • Autorange of AC/DC signals • Automatic polarity indication

Enquiries: www.hellermanntyton.co.za

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

OCTOBER 2018

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER

7

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR PROFILE: ENOCH SITHOLE

AEE IS JOINING SOUTH AFRICA AT THE 13 TH SAEEC B ill Kent of the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) will be the keynote speaker at the 13 th Southern African Energy Efficiency Confedera- tion (SAEEC) Conference taking place on 13-14 No- vember 2018 at Emperors Palace, Ekurhuleni. The energy efficiency industry is experiencing a major transformation globally, with more changes in the past five years than in the previous 100. With the continued decline in the price of renewal and alternative energy, advancement of systems and technologies and the addition of distributed generation and microgrids, the traditional energy model is changing for end users, cities and utilities. Many cities and countries are now mandating 100% power from renewable energy and requiring all automobiles to be all electric vehicles. How does this affect utilities, energy engineers and the highly skilled workforce required to implement and operate in this rapidly evolving energy field? This year’s conference will look back at the past 40 years and consider how AEE professionals and future energy engineers, will improve the quality of life and drive economic advancement in communities and the world through implementing advanced energy solutions. Bill Kent is the Executive Director of the Association of Energy Engineers, succeeding Al Thumann, the founder of AEE. Kent has been involved in the energy management industry for over 30 years, including engineering, operations and executive roles, with expertise in energy efficiency, instrumentation, automation, building systems, and executive leadership. In his 10 years at AEE, he has led many key initiatives and managed the day to day operations of the organisation in his previous role as Managing Director. E ach month, Sparks Electrical News interviews an electrical contractor to find out more about the day-to-day challenges they face. In this issue, we speak to Johannesburg-based electrician, Enoch Sithole. Sithole has been in the industry for more than four decades and is the founder and managing director of Machas Electrical Services. I started working in the electrical industry in 1975. South Africa was under the apartheid government, and at that time we were not allowed to use tools – I learnt from watching white people work. I was lucky to work with a gentleman named Harry who took me under his wing. In 1983, the company I was working for sent me for training, but most of the time when we were due to go for an actual trade test, we would be bypassed in favour of others. So, every year we would go for training but we wouldn’t be sent to write a trade test. I ended up getting a break when they started the Elconop (elec- trical construction operator) 1, 2 and 3 programme. I completed these but never got my wireman’s license although I qualified as an artisan. In 1999, I started a company with a partner, and in 2004 I openedmy own company, Machas Electrical Services. What do you enjoy most about your job? Travelling – I enjoy going around and seeing suc- cessfully finished work. I get great joy in seeing work well done. What challenges do you come across on a daily basis in your work? There are not too many now, but in previous years I used to get frustrated doing work and then not getting the credit for it. I used to train people only to see them promoted above me. Now, the only challenges I face are managing and finances. How did you come to be an electrical contractor?

What are the common misconceptions about a career in the electrical field? That electricity is a killer. It is of course true – but electricity can only kill you if you don’t know what you are doing. What is the best advice you have received? It was given to me by a gentleman named Rob. His advice was to forget about my disadvantages and to do what I wanted to do. It was the best advice ever, and I still follow it today. Which tool or piece of equipment could you not live without? An electrical tester – I think it’s the most important

tool for fault finding. And my phone!

How has your day-to-day work changed over the past few years (due to new equipment, modern technologies, etc) It’s exciting – before you had to send a letter to speak to someone when ordering a tool. Now it’s in- stant. The same with diagnosing faults – it’s now non-invasive with no need for trenching!

Enquiries: msithole@machaselectrical.co.za

Enoch Sithole

Enquiries: admin@saee.org.za

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

OCTOBER 2018

ELECTRA MINING 2018

8

SEEN AT ELECTRA MINING 2018 Fusing its rich heritage with new innovation and technology, Electra Mining Africa once again delivered a world-class experience for exhibitors and visitors. Thousands of potential buyers met with over

that remains future-fit. As usual, a number of Sparks Electrical News customers were present at the show. Enquiries: www.electramining.co.za

850 sellers of leading products, specialised services and the most cutting-edge machinery, equipment and solutions, enabling effective business growth, more streamlined operations and ensuring a business

MCE Electric

BEKA Schreder

ACDC Dynamics

Garry Lumpe Imports (Knipex & Wiha Tools)

Major Tech

Voltex

Zest WEG

Siemens

Dry Ice International

Schneider Electric

ABB

Megger

Three-D Agencies

ARB Electrical Wholesalers

WearCheck

Nordland Lighting

Elen Enclosures

Brady

Comtest

World Power Products

HELLERMANNTYTON AND CROWN PUBLICATIONS GIVEAWAYS

At the end of the show, a further draw was held for the grand prize, a week’s holiday at Umhlanga Sands Hotel. The lucky winner was Frekkie Kgosana from thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions

• Tom Homan Free from ProMinent Fluid Controls • Logan Lawrence from Pegasus Steel Products • Paul Harrison from Rham Equipment • Garth Oliver from HPE

Each day during Electra Mining, Crown Publications held a draw where one lucky winner walked away with a hamper from HellermannTyton, including a tool kit and a multimeter. The five winners in order were: • Tawanda Zulu from RJ Connect

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

OCTOBER 2018

ENERGY MEASUREMENT AND SUPPLY

9

WORKING KNOWLEDGE WITH TERRY MACKENZIE HOY

ENERGY SUPPLY MEASUREMENT T he simple bottom line is that when a consumer is connected to a power supply, it is desirable, from the point of view of the supplier, that the consumer pay for the electricity consumed. (Okay, before somebody trips me up, I know that electricity can’t be consumed, it can only be converted to another form of energy, gen- erally heat, but in this article we’ll stick to the term ‘consumed’.) The most common unit of measurement on the electricity meter is the kilowatt hour [kWh], which is equal to the amount of energy supplied to a load of one kilowatt over a period of one hour. We all know the common kilowatt hour meter, being an aluminium disc that spins at a speed proportional to the current of the load. For a direct reading meter, the load current is fed via induction coils forming part of the meter. The reading of the meter is in the form of digits, a bit like an old car speedometer; to create the correct type of induction to make the disc spin, in addition to the induction coils is a voltage coil. There are different types of induction disc meters for single phase and three phase. Where the load has a high current or where the supply is at a high voltage (say 3300 V and above) the current to the load is fed via a current transformer and the secondary of the D ata centre resilience has become more crucial than ever before as increasing volumes of transactions move to the cloud and paper-based data is digitised. Whether an organisation owns its own data centre facility or outsources the service, the principles of re- dundancy and resilience need to be applied to the power chain. Every major financial institution, mobile network and owner of sen- sitive information must ensure that its business-critical infrastructure is continuously available. Data centre resilience and robustness is achieved by adhering to the highest international standards. Every as- pect of data centre specification, building and implementation is critical to business continuity. But what does this mean for data centres and the CIOs that need to ensure their optimum performance and always-on service?Firstly, regarding power management, a well-designed 2N redundant system has every leg of the power chain duplicated from the utility input to the eventual points of consumption. During design stage of the power chain in a 2N environment every aspect of the power chain is analysed against set standards resulting in the elimination of single points of fail- ure. Mitigation of single points of failure should be the aim of every data centre owner. Once success is realised and all single points of failure have been reduced to zero, data centre resilience is achieved. Dual redundancy of data centres means the power architecture includes at least two separate main power sources, multiple uninterruptable power supply (UPS) units (battery packs) and a minimum of two generators. Choosing the right UPS Specifying the appropriate uninterruptable power supply (UPS) for a

In their never ending search for innovative ways tomake electricity more expensive, municipalities have introduced new tariffs. The first of these is the ‘TIME OF USE TARIFF’ which is a series of charges so that, as the tariff indicates, the consumer pays a different rate for kilowatt hours or electrical demand, depending on when the charges are incurred. The general idea is to make consumers use less power at times of peak demand. I can see that this may encourage consumers to run compressors or chillers at a time when electricity is cheapest, but I can’t see that the average consumer, either domestic or commercial, can adjust load much. It wouldn’t be called ‘peak time’ otherwise, would it? The latest innovation from Eskom and the municipalities is the ‘Inclining Block Tariff” whereby the more electricity the consumer uses, the more expensive it becomes. This means that the consumer is actively encouraged not to use electricity, which is odd. A final warning note: beware of organisations which offer to save you money by making adjustments to the electricity tariffs you use. There are indeed some organisations which can do this, and do it very well. There are others who are way dodgy. Just ask, before you sign, for some referrals. Trust me, you won’t be sorry.

current transformer (normally rated at 5 amp maximum) supplies the kilowatt hour meter. Unless the load is very high current but low voltage, the voltage part of the kilowatt hour meter is supplied via a voltage transformer, which supplies the meter at 110 V with the primary voltage of the transformer being rated at the voltage of load (most commonly 11 000 V for medium voltage supplies in RSA). It would be great if this was all there was to the subject. However, it is not. Let us think about an electrical load which fluctuates from a peak to nothing over any given day. The supplier of the electrical connection has to make the power supply large enough to supply the peak load. However, when the load is low, the income from the kilowatt hour charge is low. Thus the supplier uses, in addition to the kilowatt hour metering, an electrical demand meter which registers the average electrical demand, usually over a 30 minute period. Then, if the load is on intermittently, the supplier charges on the basis of the maximum demand of the load as well as the kilowatts consumed. For example, if the load is 300 kVA and is on for 50% of the time, the demand charge would be the same demand charge as if the load were on for 60 minutes of the time with only an adjustment for the kilowatt hours consumed. data centre environment is a multi-dimensional task that involves deci- sions on efficiency, integration into existing environments, availability, flexibility, cybersecurity and so on. It’s a decision that must be taken based on the organisation’s overall strategy and modernisation invest- ment. The most suitable type of UPS (single-phase or three-phase) also depends on whether the UPS is used in computer rooms, network closets, small data centres or large data centres. Maintenance and support Installing a back-power system is only the first step in guaranteeing availability of services. A regular maintenance schedule, along with comprehensive change management policies, offers additional assur- ance that the system will be perform as expected when called upon. Preventative maintenance along with an OEM-backed ‘around-the- clock’ service level agreement can ensure that issues are rectified with- out delay with the support of the manufacturer or certified service pro- vider, in the unlikely event of products underperforming. Modern UPS technology has improved power density by more than 50% in recent years, meaning that UPSs can be built to smaller footprints to reduce space requirements, while UPS generated heat losses have re- duced by 40% owing to lower power losses, reducing cooling requirements. Ultimately, any power back up design must be supported by a thor- ough understanding of current and future requirements, as well as a proactive maintenance schedule, with continuous improvement in ef- ficiency and responsiveness.

UPS DESIGN AND MAINTENANCE CRITICAL TO ENSURING UPTIME

Enquiries: www.eaton.co.za

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

OCTOBER 2018

MOTOR CONTROL CENTRES AND MOTOR PROTECTION

BUYER'S GUIDE

10

MANUFACTURERS

CONTACTS

ARMOURED/SHIELDED CABLES

CONTACTORS, BREAKERS, RELAYS

ABB South Africa Aberdare Cables ACTOM Protection and Control Alvern Cables CCG Cable Terminations Clearline Protection Systems Crabtree South Africa Danfoss Dehn + Sӧhne Dry Ice International HellermannTyton Helukabel Lapp Group Legrand O-Line Phoenix Contact Power Process Systems Radiant Group Sabelco Electrical Industries Schneider Electric South Africa South Ocean Electrical Wire Co Stone Stamcor Superlume Switchboard Manufacturers Tilt-Tech Voltex Waco WEG DISTRIBUTORS ACDC Dynamics ACTOM Electrical Products ARB Electrical Wholesalers Atlas Group Bellco Cabstrut CBI-electric : low voltage Central Support Systems Clearline Protection Systems Crabtree South Africa Dehn Africa DRH Components Dry Ice International Electrahertz Invirotel JDL Electric Lapp Group Magnet Major Tech MCE Electric Phambili Interface Phoenix Contact Power Process Systems Radiant Group R&C Instrumentation Sabelco Electrical Industries Siba Fuses Superlume Tilt-Tech Voltex Voltex LSis Waco Zest WEG Group ONLINE DISTRIBUTORS

Electrahertz Frank Proude (Pta) Peet Lourens (Jhb) HellermannTyton Ingrid Nicolaus Helukabel Doug Gunnewegh

South Ocean Electrical Wire Co Flame retardant (FR) armoured cable 600/1 000 V; low halogen (LHFR); flame retardant (ECC FR) armoured cable; armoured cable (FR) 1.9/3.3 kV; single core PVC AWA cable; aluminium flame retardant armoured cable; Surfix wires Voltex Full range of armoured and shielded cables CABLE SUPPORT SYSTEMS ABB South Africa Full range of cable support systems ACDC Dynamics Wide range of Gewiss and Ardic cable support systems ACTOM Electrical Products Cable support systems to suit all installations ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of cable support systems Atlas Group Full range of cable support systems Bellco Full range of cable support systems Cabstrut Full range of cable support systems Central Support Systems Full range of cable support systems Electrahertz Full range of cable support systems JDL Electric Full range of cable support systems Magnet Range of cable support systems O-Line Full range of cable support systems Phoenix Contact Trunking Power Process Systems Full range of cable support systems Voltex Cabstrut range of cable support systems GEARBOXES FOR MOTOR APPLICATIONS ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of gearboxes for motor applications Bellco Full range of gearboxes for motor applications Dry Ice International Cleaning of motors and gearboxes with dry ice blasting Electrahertz Full range of gearboxes for motor applications JDL Electric Full range of gearboxes for motor applications Magnet Range of gearboxes for motor applications Stone Stamcor Hydro-Mec European quality gearboxes R&C Instrumentation Vibration switches and transmitters Voltex Full range of gearboxes for motor applications CONTACTORS, BREAKERS, RELAYS ABB South Africa Full range of contactors, breakers, relays ACDC Dynamics Covering all low to medium voltage needs from brands including TC, C&S, Gewiss and Teraskai ACTOM Electrical Products Complete range of low voltage circuit breakers, isolators, earth leakage devices and wiring accessories ACTOM Protection & Control TAIAN contactors/relays ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of low voltage circuit breakers, isolators, earth leakage devices and wiring accessories CBI-electric: low voltage Mini contactor relays up to 12 A; contactors and contactor relays three- and four-pole; AC-1 contactors up to 2 600 A; AC-3 contactors up to 1 600A; overload relays, bi-metal up to 630 A; electronic units up to 1 600 A DRH Components Earth leakage relays Dry Ice International Cleaning of electrical apparatus with dry ice blasting Electrahertz Full range of contactors, breakers, relays JDL Electric Full range of contactors, breakers, relays Legrand Full range of MCBs, MCCBs, ACBs and contactors Magnet Range of contactors, breakers, relays Major Tech Comprehensive range of miniature circuit breakers 3 kA MCB series; 6 kA MCB series; series, earth leakage and isolator series MCE Electric MCE ac magnetic contactors three-pole and four-pole; MCE thermal overload relays; MCE relays and bases; Onesto MCCBs; Hyundai MCCBs; Hyundai MCBs; Hyundai air circuit breakers Phoenix Contact Relays, solid state motor starter Power Process Systems Full range of contactors, breakers and relays R&C Instrumentation Full system power management local and via Internet Schneider Electric South Africa Full range of contactors, breakers and relays Switchboard Manufacturers LV distribution boards that contain contactors, breakers, relays, changeovers and can be used to supply power to motors and motor controllers Voltex Full range of contactors, breakers, relays Voltex LSis Full range of contactors, breakers, relays

Zest WEG Group Full range of contactors; breakers; relays MOTOR PROTECTION AND SURGE PROTECTION ABB South Africa Full range of motor and surge protection ACDC Dynamics Extensive range of motor and surge protection products ACTOM Protection & Control Motor protection relays ARB Electrical Wholesales Full range of motor protection/surge protection Atlas Group Full range of motor and surge protection Bellco Full range of motor and surge protection CBI-electric: low voltage Motor protection standard and electronic up to 65 A; DC protection for solar applications up to 63 A Clearline Protection Systems Full range of motor and surge protection Dehn Africa Surge and lighting protection DRH Components Motor protection relays Electrahertz Full range of motor and surge protection JDL Electric Full range of motor and surge protection Legrand Full range of MCBs, MCCBs, ACBs and contactors Magnet Motor and surge protection MCE Electric Onesto surge arrestors, Schenker surge arrestors; Onesto dc surge arrestors Phambili Interface Full range of motor and surge protection Phoenix Contact Surge protection Power Process Systems Full range of motor and surge protection Sabelco Electrical Industries Acti9 DIN-mounted iPF Type 2 or 3 LV surge arresters; Acti9 DIN-mounted iPRD Type 2 or 3 LV withdrawable surge arresters; Tesys power control and switching contactors, Tesys T motor management system Siba Fuses Full range of fuses up to 12 kV for motor protection Superlume LED driver surge protection devices Switchboard Manufacturers Power factor correction boards to reduce electricity bills as a result of high reactive charges Voltex Full range of motor and surge protection Voltex LSis Full range of motor and surge protection Waco Range of motor and surge protection Zest WEG Group Full range of motor protection and surge protection CABLE MANAGEMENT ACCESSORIES Full range of wiring accessories ACTOM Electrical Products Full range of accessories for all types of installations ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of cable management accessories Atlas Group Full range of cable management accessories Bellco Full range of cable management accessories Cabstrut Full range of cable management accessories Central Support Systems Full range of cable management accessories Crabtree South Africa Full range of cable management accessories Electrahertz Full range of cable management accessories HellermannTyton Full range of cable of cable ties (T-series) including stainless steel and a full range of cable identification. Helukabel Helukabel glands, connectors, cable protection JDL Electric Full range of cable management accessories Lapp Group Cable accessories including UV resistant cable ties, steel cable ties and twist tail cable ties; Fleximark cable marking products Legrand Full range of cable management systems Magnet Cable management accessories O-Line Full range of cable management systems Phambili Interface Full range of cable management accessories Phoenix Contact Labels, marking systems Power Process Systems Full range of cable management accessories Radiant Group Full range of cable management accessories Voltex Full range of cable management accessories Full range of motor surge protection Schneider Electric South Africa ABB South Africa Full range of cable management accessories ACDC Dynamics

JDL Electric Shaun Singh Invirotel Modishane Sebona Lapp Group Sales Legrand Johan Bosch Magnet

Jenine Pillay Major Tech Werner Grobbelaar MCE Electric Sales O-Line Sales Phambili Interface Steve Lea Phoenix Contact Carl Coetzer Power Process Systems Sales Radiant Group Alfred Weldon R&C Instrumentation Gerhard Otto Sabelco Electrical Industries Marc Moreau Schneider Electric South Africa Sales Siba Fuses HI Hassen South Ocean Electrical Wire Co Mark Talbot Superlume Willie Garbers Switchboard Manufacturers Josh Berman Tilt-Tech Linda Hanekom Voltex Hugh Ward Yasmin Mahomed Stone Stamcor

Voltex LSis Rose Schulz Waco Jaco Coetzee Zest WEG Group Sales DRIVES AND SOFT STARTERS ABB South Africa Full range of drives and soft starters ACDC Dynamics Full range of Vacon VSDs and Aucom soft starters ACTOM Protection & Control VSD panels; soft-starters

ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of drives/soft starters Bellco

Full range of drives/soft starters. CBI-electric : low voltage (Automation and Controls). Eaton drive range: (LV) 0.75 – 2.2 kW; 0.75 – 250 kW; LS drive range (LV) 0.1 – 2.2 kW; 0.1 – 800 kW; (MV) 3 – 11 kV; soft starters: 7.5 – 277 kW; 18.5 – 525 kW; 30 – 900 kW Danfoss Danfoss and Vacon variable speed drives; Danfoss soft starters Electrahertz Full range of drives and soft starters JDL Electric Full range of drives and soft starters Magnet Range of drives and soft starters MCE Electric Full range of Hyundai VSDs Power Process Systems Full range of drives/soft starters Voltex Full range of drives/soft starters Zest WEG Group Full range of low voltage and medium voltage drives and soft starters ARMOURED/SHIELDED CABLES ACTOM Electrical Products Armoured and shielded cables ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of armoured and shielded cables Atlas Group Full range of armoured/shielded cables Bellco Full range of armoured/shielded cables Electrahertz Full range of armoured/shielded cables JDL Electric Full range of armoured and shielded cables HellermannTyton Tool- Hydrolic cable cutter Helukabel Full range of armoured and shielded cables Lapp Group Unitronic data communication cables; Olflex power and control cables Magnet Range of armoured and shielded cables Power Process Systems Full range of armoured and shielded cables Aberdare Cables Bells & Mains

Siba Fuses CONTACTS

ABB South Africa Customer contact centre Aberdare Cables Jyoshtie Dhunes ACDC Dynamics

Elmari Erasmus/Dirk Klynsmith ACTOM Electrical Products Warren Filippa ACTOM Protection & Control Faisal Hoosen Alvern Cables Stephen Liasides ARB Electrical Wholesalers Sales Atlas Group Annie Storar Bellco Shiraj Wentzel Cabstrut Juanita Kanagan CBI-electric: low voltage Jaco Viljoen CCG Cable Terminations Arthur Cameron Central Support Systems Faruk Cassim Clearline Protection Systems Tanya/Rakesh Crabtree South Africa Sales Danfoss Stephen Brown Dehn Africa Kirk Risch DRH Components Rob Hare Dry Ice International Johan van den Bergh

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

OCTOBER 2018

MOTOR CONTROL CENTRES AND MOTOR PROTECTION

BUYER'S GUIDE

11

DISPLAYS

CABLE GLANDS, LUGS, AND FERRULES

CABINETS FOR MOTOR APPLICATIONS

ACDC Dynamics Comprehensive range of displays, energy meters, digital multimeters, network analysers and panel meters – digital and analogue ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of displays Electrahertz Full range of displays Invirotel Full range of displays JDL Electric Full range of displays Legrand IME range of measuring instrument displays Magnet Range of displays MCE Electric MCE ammeters, MCE voltmeters, kWH meters Power Process Systems Full range of displays Phoenix Contact Energy meters Radiant Full range of displays (meter reading, etc) Voltex Full range of displays Zest WEG Group Electronic PF01 range of power factor meters; MMW range of power meters FANS FOR MOTOR APPLICATIONS

Lapp Group Skintop cable glands Legrand IP68 cable glands; Cabstop cable glands Magnet Range of cable glands, lugs, ferrules O-Line Full range of cable glands, lugs, ferrules Phoenix Contact Full range of cable glands, lugs, ferrules

Phambili Interface Full range of cabinets for motor applications Power Process Systems Full range of cabinets for motor applications R&C Instrumentation Infrared inspection windows Sabelco Electrical Industries Full range of cabinets for motor applications Voltex Full range of cabinets for motor applications Voltex LSis Full range of cabinets for motor applications Waco Full range of cabinets for motor applications Zest WEG Group Full range of cabinets for motor applications

Power Process Systems Full range of cable glands Stone Stamcor Full range of copper, aluminium, bi-metallic compression lugs and ferrules; 11 kV and 36 kV mechanical lugs and ferrules Voltex Full range of cable glands, lugs ferrules Waco Full range of cable glands, lugs ferrules FLAMEPROOF Aberdare Cables Flamosafe ACDC Dynamics Full range of flameproof products; lighting enclosures, limit switches, plugs, sockets, pushbuttons, fans, sirens, bacons and accessories ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of flameproof products Atlas Group Full range of flameproof products Bellco Full range of flameproof products Electrahertz Full range of flameproof products Helukabel Full range of flameproof products JDL Electric Full range of flameproof products Magnet Range of flameproof products Phambili Interface Full range of flameproof products R&C Instrumentation Ex-certified infrared thermometers Superlume IP65 and IP66 Zone rated lighting fixtures Voltex Full range of flameproof products Waco Full range of flameproof products Zest WEG Group Full range of flameproof products CONTROLS FOR MOTOR APPLICATIONS RMQ pilot devices (16 – 22.5 mm); emergency stop push buttons illuminated and non-illuminated; FAK foot and palm switches; signal towers; full range of push buttons including key operated, illuminated, LED, activators and accessories Electrahertz Full range of controls for motor applications JDL Electric Full range of controls for motor applications Legrand Complete range of control and signalling units; industrial sockets, plugs, appliance inlets and interlocked switched sockets Magnet Range of controls for motor applications MCE Electric MCE pushbuttons and control stations; MCE time switches and temperature controllers, MCE pendent stations; Onesto aluminium control stations and vandal-proof stainless steel pushbuttons Phambili Interface Full range of controls for motor applications Power Process Systems Full range of controls for motor applications Tilt-Tech Specialised potentiometers; inclinometers; digital levels Voltex Full range of controls for motor applications Voltex LSis Full range of controls for motor applications Zest WEG Group Full range of controls for motor applications including pushbuttons, selector switches and isolators CABINETS FOR MOTOR APPLICATIONS ABB South Africa Full range of controls for motor applications ACDC Dynamics Full range of controls for motor applications ACTOM Protection & Control Control desks; control panels; selector switches ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of controls for motor applications Bellco Full range of controls for motor applications CBI-electric: low voltage

+27 (0) 10 202 6995

+27 (0) 10 202 3300

ACDC Dynamics Extensive range of fans – O.Erre and others ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of fans for motor applications Bellco Full range of fans for motor applications Electrahertz Full range of fans for motor applications JDL Electric Full range of fans for motor applications Magnet Fans for motor applications

+27 (0) 31 765 4748

MCE Electrical MCE panel fans

Power Process Systems Fans for motor applications Voltex Full range of fans for motor applications WIRING ANDWIRING ACCESSORIES FOR MOTOR APPLICATIONS ABB South Africa Full range of wiring and wiring accessories for motor applications Aberdare Cables Housewire/Panel flex (wiring inside the terminal box) ACTOM Protection & Control Range of wiring and wiring accessories for motor applications Alvern Cables Permotrail; Permo power; ALVK R-vK trailing cable; H07; Singleflex ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of wiring and wiring accessories for motor applications Bellco Full range of wiring and wiring accessories for motor applications Electrahertz Full range of wiring and wiring accessories for motor applications Helukabel Full range of wiring and wiring accessories for motor applications JDL Electric Full range of wiring and wiring accessories for motor applications Legrand Full range of wiring accessories for motor applications Magnet Range of wiring accessories for motor applications MCE Electrical MCE contactors, overloads and accessories Phambili Interface Full range of wiring accessories for motor applications Phoenix Contact Marking systems Power Process Systems Full range of wiring and wiring accessories R&C Instrumentation Infrared inspection windows Stone Stamcor Cutters, strippers and crimping tools Voltex Full range of wiring and wiring accessories Voltex LSis Full range of wiring and wiring accessories Waco Range of wiring and wiring accessories for motor applications CABLE GLANDS, LUGS, AND FERRULES ACDC Dynamics Full range of cable glands, lugs, ferrules ACTOM Electrical Products Full range of termination and jointing requirements ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of cable glands, lugs ferrules Atlas Group Full range of cable glands, lugs, ferrules Bellco Full range of cable glands, lugs, ferrules CCG Cable Terminations Range of cable glands, lugs, ferrules Electrahertz Full range of cable glands, lugs, ferrules HellermannTyton Full range of lugs, glands and ferrules (with SANAS approvals)and pre- insulated terminals Helukabel Full range of cable glands, lugs, ferules JDL Electric Full range of cable glands, lugs, ferrules

+27 (0) 12 810 0500

+27 (0) 11 334 6560

+27 (0) 11 452 1415

+27 (0) 11 683 0641

+27 (0) 11 874 7600

ACDC Dynamics Full range of cabinets and enclosures for all purposes ACTOM Protection & Control MCCs; special and standard starters ARB Electrical Wholesalers Full range of cabinets for motor applications Dry Ice International Cleaning of cabinets with dry ice blasting Electrahertz Full range of cabinets for motor applications JDL Electric Full range of cabinets for motor applications Magnet Cabinets for motor applications MCE Electric Onesto steel enclosures, MCE steel enclosures

+27 (0) 11 723 6000

+27 (0) 11 879 2000

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

OCTOBER 2018