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TRANSCRIPT
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
IN T
HIS
ISSU
E
June 2014
www.crown.co.za
• Tools of the trade • Energy measurement and supply • Lighting
16-18 19-24 25-27
FEATURES
• Contractors’ Corner • Buyers’ Guide • People on the Move
REGULARS 2-13
14–15 28
EVERY year, Emperors Palace gives local youth the opportunity to take part the Peermont Education Trust (PET) programme and the young learners, selected for the programme, work while they learn at Emperors Palace.
Since 2001, the Peermont Education Trust has invested over R56 million into education for the Ekurhuleni community and, on 15 May, the Trust held yet another impressive graduation ceremony.
Nick du Plessis, managing director of P & T Technology and Sparks Electrical News columnist, addressed the graduates in an inspiring speech entitled ‘Is there a future for electricians in South Africa?’ Du Plessis spoke passionately about the need for learners to dismiss the notion of math literacy and focus on subjects such as mathematics and science.
“The experience the students gain here is invaluable and it assists them in finding jobs in the all-important artisan sector – a sector that is in dire need of skilled graduates,” says Du Plessis.
“Without electricians our country will not move forward. Whilst the majority of young South Africans want to study, it is electricians who keep the lights burning for them to do so,” adds Du Plessis.
The Trust offers three-year learnerships for electricians, spending R2-million annually on the NQF level accredited training. Learners are offered the opportunity to apply for a management qualification or complete their trade tests, which ensures that the Lesedi Programme provides careers with longevity and future opportunities for young artisans. The PET Lesedi programme boasts a 100% employment rate as all the Trust’s graduates have been employed after training.
The Trustees provide life skills training for students and assist them with job seeking skills that ensure a positive and successful outcome of the programme. Through this training, South Africa’s skills shortage is being addressed and unemployed youngsters are being given a chance to become gainfully employed, making a positive contribution to the economy in a tangible way.
In the past year the Trust developed 28 learners in the electrician cat-egory: Eight electricians at NQF Level, 13 electricians at NQF Level 2 and seven electricians at NQF Level 4.
“As a group, Peermont approaches Corporate Social Investment and Responsibility (CSIR) as an integral part of the way we do business and all our initiatives are aligned with the group’s vision and mission. We commend our Trustees and administrative staff on the selfless work they continue to do,” says Vusi Zwane, Peermont Corporate Affairs and CSI executive.
Zwane announced that R30-million was disbursed to a wide variety of under-served communities through Peermont’s Trusts and CSIR
A bright future for young electricians
initiatives throughout the year. Jenny Findlay, the Trust manager, says: “The learners have a wonderful opportunity to gain the essential skills that will give them an advantage in the workplace. In this way they can start at the bottom and learn the ‘nuts and bolts’ of the business before broadening their career opportunities.”
The Peermont Education Trust is sponsored by Emperors Palace and to date, over 500 young people have been assisted through the Lesedi Programme.
Enquiries: (011) 928-1000
This group of Peermont Education Trust Lesedi Programme students successfully completed their NQF level 2, 3 or 4 electrical learnerships at P&T Technology in Germiston and graduated at a ceremony at Emperors Palace on May 15. (Back): P&T Technology’s Nick du Plessis (trustee); Sandile Nkabinde; Vusi Zwane (Trust chairperson); Sboniso Myeni; Njabulo Skosana; Tshepo Mbhalathi; Tshidi Madima; and special guest at the graduation, Bennett Nikani (Ekurhuleni MMC City Planning & Economic Development); (front) Given Molefe, Clinton Sekake, Sydney Simamane, Kagiso Molefe, and Kgomotso Moja. (Photograph by Yolanda van der Stoep).
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
contractors’ corner C3Personality of the Month
Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference…
ANTHONY Hawley, has been the national sales and marketing manager for lighting company, Spectrum Utility Management (SUM) for just over a year although he has been in the industry for two decades.
He started in the lighting industry when no one was too concerned about how much energy lumi-naires used. Over the last two decades the global movement towards energy efficient lighting has come up with progressively efficient lighting technologies and Anthony’s ‘coming of age’ in the lighting industry is perfectly timed.Sparks: Where were you educated?AH: I attended at Hoërskool Die Varing in Bracken-hurst Alberton, and obtained a NQF4 in business management training from the Institute of Busi-ness Marketing Management.Sparks: How long have you been involved in the electrical industry?AH: I’ve been involved in the electrical industry for 20 years.Sparks: When and where did you start your career?AH: My career actually started at BEKA when I joined the company as a sales engineer in 1997. Even though I didn`t know much about the light-ing industry, I was very eager to learn. I really didn’t know South Africa or BEKA clients very well but after my initial training, I pretty much hit the road and did a lot of driving.
During that first year at BEKA I travelled about 120 000km finding clients and building relation-ships. I was with BEKA for nine years and then joined Light-Be Lighting – which at the time was a small company – as sales director. I was with Light-Be Lighting for seven years and in 2013 I joined SUM as the national sales and marketing manager.Sparks: What are the greatest changes you have seen over the years?AH: I have seen major changes in the lighting industry especially over the past few years. I have also found that many companies are selling imported products rather than local products, which I believe is due to the huge increase in the number of importers of LED products and the availability of cheap products from the East.
Also, the market for street lighting has become much more competitive – and it seems that some municipalities are going for lower priced products rather than for quality.Sparks: What major projects have you worked on and what is your greatest accomplishment? AH: I have been involved in some large projects, one of which was for the Sanral on/offramp light-ing in Gauteng.
Anthony Hawley.
Recently, I was in Nelson Mandela Bay work-ing on the Walmer LED Floodlight Project – an energy saving project in Walmer township. This was the most rewarding project for me as it received attention from the Minister of Energy, Dikobe Ben Martins and President Jacob Zuma, who attended the service delivery programme.
Currently, I am busy with large projects for energy efficient floodlighting in Nelspruit and Potchefstroom.Sparks: Have you won any awards?AH: I haven’t won any awards personally but the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality received an in-ternational award for its energy-efficient lighting project and it was an honour for me to have been involved in a project that received such acclaim.Sparks: Who has been your inspiration or have you had a mentor who has influenced your career?AH: My career was definitely inspired and sup-ported by Gustav Kritzinger, who was a former sales and marketing director at BEKA and is still a colleague at SUM. Sparks: What, to your mind, is one of the biggest challenges facing the industry at this time?AH: I am concerned that too many cheap, poor quality products are being imported into South Africa. These products are influencing the lighting ‘price war’ and it concerns me that many of these products are being sold for the wrong applications.
Another big issue is that local governments are slow to pay and even though work has been completed, it can be months before payment is eventually received. Sparks: What do you enjoy most about your job?AH: I enjoy the new technology relating to energy efficiency that is available today – it is a very exciting aspect of my job. Our clients share our enthusiasm when they can see the direct benefits of changing to energy efficient lighting. Sparks: How do you motivate your staff?AH: My colleagues are all enthusiastic about energy efficient lighting and this is a direct motivation to achieve their personal goals.
We work together as a team and we share the same attitude towards achieving change in the market and the economy. Sparks: If you could ‘do it all again’, would you change anything? If so, what would that be?AH: I am content with where I am now. Without the previous challenges and hurdles I have faced, I would not have been able to learn and grow to where I am now in my career. I believe that everything happens for a reason and when one door closes, another opens with even more opportunity. Sparks: Would you advise a person leaving school to enter the electrical industry? And why?AH: Yes, I would. This industry needs young, motivated people.
The future of our industry is defi-nitely focused on energy efficiency and there are many opportunities for young people who are able to bring new and fresh ideas to the market. Sparks: What is your advice to electrical contractors and/or elec-trical engineers?AH: Electrical contractors and engineers should keep up with technology concerning energy efficient lighting. Sparks: What is your favourite quote?AH: My favourite quote is, “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference” (Sir Winston Churchill).
I also live by Margaret Mead’s quote: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Sparks: Name three things on
your ‘bucket list’ (things you want to do before you ‘kick the bucket’).AH: The things on my bucket list will have to wait for a while… Right now, I have too many things yet to achieve in my career and still have the time to enjoy my family.
POWER Technologies (Powertech), a wholly owned subsidiary of the JSE-listed Allied Electronics Corporation (Altron), has announced the appoint-ment of James Calmeyer as CEO for its operation Crabtree. The operation will once again function as an autonomous, stand-alone company and will con-duct its business from the combined
James Calmeyer.
Crabtree under new leadershipmanufacturing, sales and distribution premises in Wadeville.
Calmeyer joined the Powertech group in 2007, when Powertech acquired IST. He subsequently took over the manag-ing director position at Strike Technolo-gies in 2010. With the amalgamation of Strike Technologies, TIS and Powertech IST to form Powertech System Integra-tors, Calmeyer was promoted to busi-ness development executive for utilities.
Powertech Group CEO, Neil Kayton says: “By consolidating the manufactur-ing, sales and distribution functions of Crabtree, we will be allowing the low voltage electrical accessories business to focus on the core competencies of the Crabtree name, being quality and innovation within the South African market. There are definitive and tangible opportunities for the electrical acces-sories business and we are positioning Crabtree for future sustained profitable growth.”
Enquiries: (011) 706-7184
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
C4 contractors’ corner
Play the ball, not the manMark Palmer, Gauteng Electrical Inspection Authority
IT was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of my industry colleague, Peter Smuts – a man whom I knew for a long time and greatly respected. When I was faced with situations within the industry that seemed to be somewhat hopeless, Peter was there to give me direction and encouragement.
I will definitely miss his insights, especially with regards to my constant endeavours to shed some light on the application of SANS 10142-1 and with regards to the issuing of Certificates of Compliance and the policing thereof.
Recently, I was reminded of a phrase he often used when offering advice: “Never forget to play the ball and not the man!”
I had the opportunity to revisit this wise adage when I was challenged by the daunting prospect of having to give evidence in a case that involved an alleged fraudulently issued Certificate of Compliance.
Over many years and in numerous columns, I have repeatedly stressed the importance of correctly completing documentation and cor-rectly applying the appropriate standards as the
supporting elements to ensure compliance with legislation.
As I could clearly see this case was heading down the road where the Registered Person would be identified as the ‘man’ who had made many flawed decisions regarding Certificates of Compliance, I wondered what had happened to the ‘ball’.
I believe that the ‘ball’ is an industry that has, to a great extent, left many Registered Persons in the lurch. The absence of any centralised informa-tion and the lack of any effective enforcement
measures have, to a large extent, left a gaping void in this somewhat complex environment. I also believe that many problems relating to the ‘interpretation’ of standards can be solved by simply applying a degree of ‘common sense’. It is also an observable fact that many electricians, in their capacities as Registered Persons, have being applying certain standards incorrectly for so long now that their ‘application’ of those standards appears to them to be correct.
Unfortunately, in the absence of any meaning-ful industry guidance, these problems perpetu-
ate and, ultimately, the ‘man’ has to take the consequences of his unlawful actions.
What especially concerns me is the loss of common sense, which leads some electri-cians to regard the roof spaces of premises – in many cases containing most of the electrical infrastructure – as ‘enclosures’.
As a result, these people believe that they have been given licence to ignore this part of the electrical installation. This is further exacerbated by applying only one context of the standard to this environment – “Access to live parts”.
SANS 10142-1 Fundamental Clause 5.1.1 states: “It shall not be possible to touch any live part within arm’s reach with the standard test finger (see SANS 60529/IEC 60529 (SABS IEC 60529))
a) during normal operation, orb) when a cover is removed, unless the cover
is removed with the use of a tool or a key.”The concern I wish to raise lies with sub
clause (b). As a result of many roof spaces only being accessible by the opening of a trapdoor – and therefore, the use of a ladder, the skewed viewpoint is that because the ladder could be regarded as a ‘tool’, any accessible live part in this environment is of no concern.
The ‘common sense’ I refer to should lead a Registered Person to understand that these roof spaces are not only accessed by electri-cians who understand the inherent risks contained therein, but by many other trades who use these spaces for their equipment. There are, however, many other clauses which also need to be considered.
The provisions of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1992 and the applica-tion of the ‘reasonable man’s test’ should clearly direct many electrical contractors (as self-employed persons) to steer clear of this perception and to treat these areas not as enclosures, but rather as the part of an electrical installation that requires special attention.
As long as the contracting industry in par-ticular does not recognise that it is the ‘ball’ and does little to educate Registered Per-sons, the sad fact is that the law will ‘target’ the man and not the ball. This is certainly not what my esteemed colleague advocated.
I have faith that with continuous educa-tion, common sense will ultimately prevail.
POWERTECH Transformers, a subsidiary of Powertech and the JSE listed Altron Group has received the majority share of the miniature substation contract from Eskom to the value of aboutR350 million. The contract, which covers a two year period from August 2013 to July 2015, comprises miniature substations that will be supplied to Eskom nationally.
The miniature substations are intended for various housing developments throughout South Africa where Eskom supplies power. These substations will be manufactured locally in Powertech Transformers’ Cape Town factory and transported from there to locations as required in terms of the Eskom contract.Commenting on the contract, Bernard Meyer, CEO of Powertech Transformers says, “Obtaining repeat business in a highly competitive domestic market from a key customer such as Eskom, confirms their confidence in us as a strategic local partner.”
Enquiries: (012) 318-9725
Mini substation contract awarded
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
contractors’ corner C7
LEGRAND’S extensive range of products and systems for electrical installations and building infrastructures, encompasses environmentally friendly cast resin transformers, designed for low environmental impact.
“Legrand’s energy efficient cast resin transform-ers, which efficiently transfer electrical power between two different voltage systems, at the same frequency, are manufactured by a Legrand subsidiary, EdM, according to stringent quality and safety specifications,” says Luk Ivens, general
of vibrations between core and windings, also reducing operating noise levels and absorbing thermal expansion of components. Sockets on the MV side adapt the primary voltage to the mains, which can be set with the transformer switched off.
Class F insulating material, at 155°C allows for a temperature rise of 100°C and the epoxy resin insulation means low maintenance. The carriage of these units, which allow safe movement, is pre-equipped for the mounting of IP reinforced
enclosures. Accessories include thermal sensors or thermistors, electronic units for temperature control and forced ventilation systems to increase transformer power in temporary overloads or at high environmental temperatures.
Legrand can also supply MV terminations for plug-in connections, surge arrester kits and anti-vibrating supports. Protective enclosures, available with different degrees of protection – IP21, IP31 and IP23 – protect transformers from external
environmental impacts and people from the risk of direct contact. EdM transformers are enhanced by the Zucchini busbar trunking system which provides synergy for a direct connection. These busbars are available in aluminium or copper.
Legrand offers a technical advisory service on which transformer and busbar trunking system provides the best solution for every specific ap-plication in the distribution of electrical power, energy co-generation, rectification and traction.
Enquiries: (011) 444-7971manager, Legrand Southern Africa. “These transformers have no risk of insulating fluid losses and are a low fire hazard – even in harsh environments, like on the mines and in chemical and petrochemical plants.
“Other advantages of these transformers are significant savings on electricity costs and minimal energy waste. This compact system has also been designed for easy installation and low maintenance requirements – no oil changes are necessary.
“The absence of flammable insulation liquids, the use of self-extinguishing materials exempt of toxic gas emissions, reduced noise levels and low electromagnetic emissions, ensure enhanced environmental protection in all sectors.”
Legrand’s standard distribution transform-ers have rated power between 100 and 3 150kVA, primary rated voltage up to 36kV and secondary rated voltage up to 433V. Special transformers have rated power up to 17 000kVA.
Unlike oil transformers, these cast resin units, with reduced overall size dimensions, can be installed inside buildings and do not require additional building structures. This means optimum flexibility in any installa-tion. Because no cooling fluids are necessary, maintenance costs are also minimised.
These transformers have features for enhanced efficiency and optimum safety. Rubber inserts alleviate the transmission
Environmentally friendly cast resin transformers
THE MB relay is ISO 9001:2000 compliant and fea-tures starter logic and logic function blocks which, coupled with its multi protocol communication options, make it an ideal solution for plant automa-tion. All configurable inputs have 73 possibilities that include alarm and trip flags, timers, function block and RTC outputs, digital field and PLC inputs.
The MB relay is fully configurable with the aid of free front-end software or a man-machine-interface unit (MMI). Up to 1 440 event records can be date and time stamped and downloaded and viewed in MS Excel. Essential statistical data ensures infor-mation retrieved from the relay can be used for maintenance purposes before drive failure. The three-phase recorder allows the user to record mo-tor currents, voltages, thermal capacity and power factor which can be monitored and analysed in real time. This is particularly useful when tripping occurs for no obvious reason.
Plugged into the basic unit, the expansion module caters for Profibus DPV 1, Modbus RTU and CANbus communication modules. The base unit comes complete with an integrated CTMB and CBCT current measurement range from 0.5 to 250A. The relay is fitted with seven field inputs and four relay outputs with individual fault and I/O status indicating LEDs.
Enquiries: (012) 327-1729
Protection relay for plant automation
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
C8 contractors’ corner
NOW, with breakthroughs in technology, household electri-cal appliances and computers can be protected from lightning and power surges, says Hugh Ward, group commercial man-ager at Voltex.
“Because of its geographic, climatic and economic realities, South Africa is seriously af-fected by lightning and power surges.
Load switching and shedding are the main reasons why elec-tronic devices age prematurely,” says Ward.
He adds, “this is because of the surge exposure these de-vices encounter – and, in South Africa, this is not an uncommon occurrence.”
He says while it is assumed by protecting the external struc-ture at the mains that the entire internal structure is protected from power surges, this is only effective to a degree and is no
Surge protection solution for vulnerable appliances
Any coil, anywhere, anytime…
A LACK of skilled coil rewinders in South Africa was the impetus behind the decision to open Specialized Coil Manufacturing (SCM) in New-castle, northern KwaZulu-Natal, says Tim van der Vaart, the company’s manager
“This shortage of skilled coil rewind personnel became a huge problem for many businesses that were incurring massive expenses as a result of downtime while coils were being repaired or manufactured – and there seemed to be no local solution in sight.
“SCM was started because, with our plus-50 year’s combined experience in coils, we knew we could fill the gap in the market. And we have done that successfully, mainly due to our offer of a complete tapped and insulated coil ready to be fitted to the pole piece – and all the client has to do is secure the coil and connect,” says Van der Vaart
He says that SCM started production in 2010 and the company has grown in strength every year since then, manufacturing many different types of coils from medium sized coils to very large coils. “We have manufactured armature, field and interpole coils – and while we have manufactured single coils on special occasions for clients, we have also produced large quanti-ties of coils.”
Van der Vaart says that SCM has, over the past few years, completed a great number of manu-facturing contracts for various clients “and we have many still in progress”.
“We take pride in being able to assist suppli-ers, repairers and manufacturers so that they, in turn, are able to deliver a quality product to their end-users,” he says.
New team members to help drive African expansionDEHN Protection SA, the local subsidiary of Germany-based lightning and surge protection, earthing components and safety equipment manufacturer, Dehn + Söhne, has announced the appointment of three new associates as the company drives its African expansion strategy.
Alexis Barwise, man-aging director of Dehn Protection SA says: “We have seen phenom-enal growth since we were established in July 2013, with a rap-idly expanding partner and client base.”
In order to keep
abreast of local de-mand and to continue the company’s strategy of expansion further into the continent, Dehn Protection South Africa has hired three new team members. Nicola Cheetham has joined the organisa-tion as managerial assistant and Reuben Chuene has taken up the position of stock controller. French speaking Job Midiburo has come on board as a junior sales engineer and will assist the organisation in French speaking markets such as Mauritius, Rwanda and Burundi.
Enquiries: (011) 704-1487 Nicola Cheetham, Job Midiburo, Reuben Mothemane with Alexis Barwise (front).
Sectional copper bars for rotor taped on a taping machine with mica tape at Specialized Coil Manufacturing.
A round copper conductor with an enamel covering wound in perfect layering – sizes from 0.45mm to 7.00mm. Specialized Coil Manufacturing’s manager, Tim van der Vaart, says, “When manufacturing these par-ticular coils we use measurements as small as 0.05mm achieve these perfectly layered coils.”
Specialized Coil Manufacturing’s edge wound coils from small to large – sizes are controlled with pres-sure plates and the company manufactures many complex edge wound coils at its Newcastle factory. The bare sectional copper conductor is wound on a flat edge with multiple turns; thickness from 0.85mm – 10.00mm and width 0.85mm by 35.00mm.
“Since SCM started back in 2010, we have purchased many new machines – investing a great deal in state-of-the-art machinery so that we can supply our clients with the best products
in the shortest possible time,” he says, adding that SCM has manu-factured some complex coils for clients.
“While we use mainly local raw products, we have access to international products for more specialised types of coils. We are continuously moving forward and using advanced technology so that we can offer the best, most up-to-date coil manufacturing service to our customers,” he says.
SCM manufactures various coils for the repair industry – these include: dc field coils; dc inter-pole coils; armature coils; ac coils; strap, edge and pancake coils; and loco traction coils.
The coils that SCM makes for the manufacturers include: magnet coils; Whims coils;
diverter reactor coils; clutch and brake coils; trac-tion coils; edge wound coils; vibrator coils; and solenoid coils.
Enquiries: 082 88 99 219 or 082 800 1210
match against the ‘brute force’ of lightning.
“It is important to remember that compliance with the SANS code requires both internal and external protection,” warns Ward.
“The solution is to approach this problem holistically and install an external protective ele-ment as well as an internal one to protect all vulnerable electrical appliances and computers.”
He says the Voltex surge pro-tector plug has a built-in circuit breaker that gives extra protection against power surges and lighting strikes. “ And Voltex supplies vari-ous products, such as a multi-pin plug, which is especially impor-tant for protecting computers.
The Voltex multi-plug has a two-year product warranty as well as a R20 000 warranty against damage caused by light-ning and surge-related incidents (terms and conditions apply).
Enquiries: (011) 879-2000
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
contractors’ corner C9Training and development by Nick du Plessis
How mentors can improve the quality of learner artisansDURING the last month, I have been to vari-ous meetings and also dealt with a number of queries about the quality of this country’s future artisans – even newly qualified artisans.
I have to admit that there are many who carry the artisan badge but are not compe-tent artisans.
I have discussed some of the issues at length in previous columns but, unfortunate-ly, many of us tend to blame the next person for this sorry situation.
With that in mind, I would like to highlight
After a coaching session, ask yourself the following questions:• Did I allow the learner sufficient time to complete
the allocated task?• Would it benefit the learner to have more practice
sessions to master the skill?• Did the coaching session relate to the task criteria?• Was the coaching session practical; that is, is it
time-efficient and cost-effective?• Do I need to upgrade my personal knowledge of
this process?
• Did the learner get a fair coaching session?• How can I improve on this in the next coaching
session?Remember that every project, task or activity could lead to a coaching or training opportunity for a learner. If you don’t take advantage of this then you are contributing to the fact that learners can pass the trade test, but are not capable of performing adequately in the workplace because you never gave them the opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills in the workplace.
In the final analysis, ask yourself if you would be able to look in a mirror and say with confi-dence that you have provided the future artisans who are working under your guidance with sufficient and valid working opportuni-ties to ensure that they will perform as artisans when they pass the trade test.
Would you be comfortable with them telling others that you taught them to do certain tasks that are required by an artisan in their chosen field?
some elements that mentors can do in the workplace to improve the situation.
While you may not be able to fix the entire skills competence problem, you can impact the lives and competence of young learners in your environment or workspace.
Firstly, it must be remembered that when any sort of training intervention has taken place, unless the knowledge and skills acquired are applied in the context of the workplace, the learner will never master the skills. I am aware that some of the theory elements learnt would hardly be used in isolation.
Allow me to explain: If a learner learns about volts, current and ohms and can do the calculations using schematic diagrams, then learns about a multimeter and its functions and finally learns about a circuit breaker and its components and functions, the learner then has an understanding of all the processes and functions.
In the training centre the learner is in a controlled environment where compo-nents are accessible, clean and, in many instances, older than the components found in the workplace – not what one would call `reality’.
Therefore, when a learner is in the workplace and you are the coach or men-tor, you are expected to assist the learner gain an understanding of the equipment and components in the workplace, the complexities of installing equipment in confined spaces, and the pressures of a workplace in terms of time constraints and customer expectations and needs.
Remember, it is only with your input and support that the learner will be able to become a skilled artisan.
I have put together a practical list of questions that will assist you to coach learners effectively and will help you to evaluate your coaching exercises.
In order to deliver an effective coaching session, here are some questions to ask yourself:• Will I be able to demonstrate the task in
an appropriate language while demon-strating it?
• Have I allowed sufficient time to match the learner’s needs?
• Have I ensured compliance to health and safety regulations?
• Have I planned the session in a logical sequence?
• Is the task linked to the learner's learning requirements?
• Do I know where the learner can find additional information or recourses?
• Are any unnecessary demands being placed on the learners?
• Can I explain the task in a broader context?
• Can I redirect learners when they are not meeting performance standards?
• Have I planned a process to clearly ex-plain to the learner his or her role as well as what is expected from them?
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
C10 contractors’ corner
Working knowledge by Terry McKenzie-Hoy
A guide to corruption and site theftTHIS is your guide to corruption and site theft – your real, genuine guide. I am not saying, “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em!” but I would like to lay out, once and for all, some of the dirty tricks – on and off site – that can be pulled by dodgy and crooked contractors.
If you’re honest, this guide should help you to avoid the pitfalls (if you don’t know them already); and if you are a bit dodgy, then nothing I write will make you more so... Perhaps you’ll get too dodgy for your own good and end up in one
of South Africa’s fabulous ‘holiday homes’ … such as Pollsmoor or Sun City (also known as Johan-nesburg Medium Correctional).How to steal from a contractor’s container storeWatch the contractor’s container. Very often, the container is locked with a padlock but when it’s open, the padlock is just left open, hanging on the staple part of the hasp and staple. Note what type of padlock it is and buy one that looks the same. Then, when you have a moment and
nobody is looking, swap the padlock you have bought (opened and unlocked) with the contrac-tor’s padlock hanging (open) from the staple.
Later, the contractor will close his container and push the padlock (which he thinks is his original one) closed. During the night, you will be able to open the container, clean it out and re-lock it us-ing the contractor’s original lock. In the morning, the contractor will open the container with his key and – surprise! – find an empty container.
And he won’t know how it happened.
The blasted copper thieves trickLay cable in a trench with the right-sized copper earth wire. Fill in the trench leaving a piece of cable and earth wire exposed so that the consultant can witness that the installation is correct. Then, when the inspection is complete, pull out the earth wire and replace it with a much smaller one. Where the cable comes out of the trench, join a bit of the right-sized cable onto an earth bar. This works best on long runs of street lighting. You can blame the “blasted copper thieves”.
What shall we do? I’ve found another cable… When digging a trench, lay a length of old cable lengthwise across the trench. An 11kV paper cable is best. Bury it about two metres on either side of the trench. Tell the consultant that you’ve found a cable and ask whether he would like you to get your ‘friend’ to use his cable locator to locate it.
The only problem is that your ‘friend’ has to work on weekends. About 90% of consultants would agree and won’t pitch up to witness the tests. On Monday, you tell the consultant that the cable was dead and has been removed. You quote for a weekend variation order. You and your friend split it.Stealing angle grinders and drills on site Look around the site. Sooner or later you will find a workman working with an electric tool connected to a very long extension lead, which is plugged into a socket some distance away. You and a mate work as follows: The mate hangs around the workman. You switch off at the distant point and plug in your drill.
The workman will either come to see what has been switched off or he will send his helper. If the helper investigates, just keep on drilling. If the workman leaves his workplace to investigate, your friend picks up the electric tool, squeezes the trigger and shouts to an imaginary friend: “Still not working!” and walks off with the tool.I don’t know much about transformersIf you are working near a transformer (live or dead) get a syringe and squirt water into the silica gel breather. It will turn yellowish. Tell the consultant. Ask if he would like you to get the oil filtered. You mention that you have a ‘friend’ who does this, but the only problem is that your ‘friend’ has to work on weekends.
Again, about 90% of consultants would agree and won’t show up to witness the tests. Over the weekend, change the silica gel and quote for a weekend variation order for filter-ing the oil. You and your friend split it. Tell the consultant that your friend says “the windings may be damaged” and he can do a “polarisa-tion index test to check this”. But only during the weekend...
Same procedure. All good? Got it? A cautionary note: Don’t try any of this with
me if I am the consultant.
The Wiha Premium Tools’ TriCut is the perfect pliers for electricians. This one tool replaces three pliers but costs half the price. Ergonomically designed and hence comfortable to use, the TriCut has the functions of diagonal cutting pliers and easily cuts cables – and the specially engineered head enables dismantling and stripping along the cable length-wise . The TriCut effortlessly cuts through cable sleeves so that wires can be stripped – even in hard-to-reach locations. The German quality means the pliers are forged from high quality C70 steel and additionally induction hardened to about 64 HRC – so the cutting edges are top-notch and stay sharp for a very long time.
Enquiries: (011) 396-4065
Three-in-one pliers for electricians
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
THE last few months have felt like the proverbial ‘month of Sundays’! Eish man, getting back into the mood for work after all those public holidays nearly drove me up the wall… With 14 public holidays (and observed days) and only four months of the year that do not have some kind of public holiday, it is no wonder that South African productivity is suspect in the eyes of the world. And I hate to think what the cost to industry must be. Enough to drive a man to drink, methinks!
But back to the serious stuff… at least we only have one public holiday between now and August.
In this month’s column we will continue taking a closer look at the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 1993) and its Regulations. Up till now we have looked at the definitions and the Sections 1 through 8. In Section 8 we looked at ‘General duties of employers to their em-ployees’. A lot of people think that this is where the Occupational Health and Safety Act ends. Maybe it has something to do with the title?
Anyway, in Section 9 the responsibilities and duties towards others take a slightly different tack… The Occupational Health and Safety Acts states:9. General duties of employers and self-employed persons to persons other than their employees.(1) Every employer shall conduct his undertaking in such a manner as to ensure, as far as is reason-ably practicable, that persons other than those in his employment who may be directly affected by his activities are not thereby exposed to hazards to their health or safety.
Now, how’s this for some cold water in your face? The Occupational Health and Safety Act states here unambiguously that every owner (board of directors) of an electrical contracting company for instance, shall ensure that the work they do for and on behalf of other people, shall not cause any harm or expose the general public to hazards that are detrimental to their health or safety. This implies that any electrical work shall comply with some sort of standard that will include health and safety. On a large project, for instance, the contractor might be required to have a comprehensive health and safety policy that may even have to be presented to the client before he moves on site. The project might even require the contractor to have a fulltime Health and Safety Officer on site – usually referred to as the SHE or SHEQ Of-ficer – in other words the person responsible for safety, health, environmental and quality.Next…(2) Every self-employed person shall conduct his undertaking in such a manner as to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, that he and other persons who may be directly affected by his activi-ties are not thereby exposed to hazards to their health or safety.
Now, those of you working for yourself, even literally as a 'one man show', take heed! Subsec-tion (2) places the exact same responsibilities on the owner/operator of a small business as those required from the large sometimes multi-national contractors. To this end, the Occupational Health and Safety Act stipulates in later sections that we have to work according to the Regulations forming part of the Act. The
regulations bring South African standards into the workplace and can even include recognised international standards. Some – I like to call them, ‘the how to do it standards’ – that come to mind are SANS 10142-1 (The Wiring of Prem-ises – installations below 1 000V), SANS 10142-2 (installations above 1 000V), SANS 10086 (The installation, inspection and maintenance of equipment used in explosive atmospheres) and SANS 10198:2004 (The selection, handling and installation of electric power cables of rating not exceeding 33kV). There are many others.
The following Section of the Occupational Health and Safety Act speaks to wholesalers, importers, manufacturers and installers alike. 10. General duties of manufacturers and others regarding articles and substances for use at work.(1) Any person who designs, manufactures, imports, sells or supplies any article for use at work shall ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, that the article is safe and without risks to health when properly used and that it complies with all prescribed requirements.Thinking of climbing on the energy saving, low voltage or LED lighting ‘bandwagon’? The Oc-cupational Health and Safety Act is quite clear about what the regulator expects of you as a designer and/or manufacturer.
Whether you import rubbish or the good stuff, the products have to be approved by the SABS before they can be used in electrical installations. As a contractor, you are quite at liberty to ask for ‘the paperwork’ if the SABS stamp is not visible on the equipment.(2) Any person who erects or installs any article for
use at work on or in any premises shall ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, that nothing about the manner in which it is erected or installed makes it unsafe or creates a risk to health when properly used.When an Accredited Person signs a Certificate of Compliance he or she confirms that the design was done, the materials were procured and the job was done according to a standard. So, when someone gets rapped over the knuckles for installing something “in direct sight of the sky” contrary to the requirements of SANS 10142-1, the argument is sometimes raised… “but I bought the material from a reputable dealer…”
There is a difference here… The dealer sold you a product that conforms in all respects, you installed it incorrectly. But when you buy a circuit breaker or LED light fitting from a ‘reputable dealer’ and upon inspection after the installation caught fire, it transpires the circuit breaker or LED light fitting was fake or a grey import, you are in for a rough ride, I’m afraid.
Okay, to be fair, it is near impossible to spot the ‘grey’ products and we therefore trust the dealers – literally with our lives! If, in the end, it can be proved that you did not wittingly install the ‘grey’ product, the supplier will have to answer some awkward questions and hopefully they have a good insurance policy.
So, when Eskom says, “It’s okay, you can install these LED lights…” why would you question them? But beware! Eskom (for some obscure rea-son) is blatantly allowing these ‘non-compliant’ light fittings to be installed in the name of ‘energy savings’ as I was told by an Eskom official at an ECA(SA) meeting some time ago.
Till next time.
THE MIT515, MIT525 and MIT1025 are the newest in Megger’s line of insulation testers >1 kV. These instruments are designed based on Megger’s extensive knowledge of insulation testing and significant feedback from actual end users. Megger has taken the best insulation testers in the world and improved them – adding functionality to make them easier to use and easier to transport. They include Megger’s patented digital/analogue display (real-time pointer movement), a CATIV safety rating at all terminals and a unique dual case design.
The new range of insulation resistance testers consists of three models: two 5kV units (MIT515 and MIT525) and a 10kV unit (MIT1025). Resist-ance measurement is available up to 10TΩ for the 5kV models and 30TΩ for the 10kV model. The new instruments are smaller and lighter than previous models yet offer advanced features and rapid charge capability. A key productivity feature is the ability to take measurements when connected to line power/mains with a dead battery. Intelligent battery charging ensures the optimum charge rate as a function of battery level, resulting in minimum charge times.
The rugged, unique dual case design provides the ultimate protection for a portable instrument and a clip-on lead pouch ensures that leads remain with the instrument at all times. The case lid is removable for improved terminal access. IP rating is IP65 with the case closed preventing water/dust ingress. High reliability and safety are built in; all models are safety rated to CATIV 600V and are double insulated.
Five pre-set voltage ranges are provided in insula-tion test mode, plus a user-settable lock voltage range. Any selectable test voltage may be locked and restored via the selector switch, thereby increasing efficiency of commissioning and repetitive tests. Preconfigured diagnostic tests include Polariza-tion Index (PI), Dielectric Absorption Ratio (DAR), dielectric discharge (DD), Step Voltage (SV) and ramp test. Graphs can be compared to example curves in IEEE 95-2002 to reveal a variety of faults difficult to
Tough insulation resistance testers
Getting to grips with SANS 10142–1 by Hannes Baard
Ask for the paperwork if there is no SABS mark on products
detect otherwise. Small defects can be easily detected without risking the sudden large voltage increments produced by a step voltage test.
Monitoring the developing graph during the test enables the operator to terminate prior to breakdown, thereby reducing the possibility of damage to an already flawed insulation. These units are particularly informative on polyester, asphalt and epoxy-mica insulations. They can also test voltage suppression devices. Simplicity of operation is achieved with two rotary switches and the large backlit display enables multiple results to be displayed simultaneously.
Advanced memory storage includes time/date stamping of results, logging of data and recall of results to screen. A fully isolated USB device interface (Type B) is used for safe transfer of data to Megger’s PowerDB asset management software.
Typical end users include electrical contractors, test-ing and service companies, wind farm and solar gen-eration operators, power generation and distribution companies, as well as industrial and rail companies.
Megger is represented locally by Surgetek.All content courtesy of Megger.
Enquiries: (011) 792-1303
contractors’ corner C11
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
C12 contractors’ corner
THE penetration of water or the existence of moisture in XLPE cables is one of the most unacceptable problems associated with the lifespan of the product especially under the influence of high electrical stresses. XLPE insulated cables that are designed to operate at 600/1 000V require insulation thicknesses well above those required purely for electrical per-formance. The electrical stresses experienced by LV XLPE cables are too small and insufficient to create electrical failures due to moisture hence, no protection from the effects of water and moisture is required for LV XLPE cables.
Medium voltage XLPE cables (>1 000V), experience significantly increased electrical stresses and should be protected against water penetration and moisture. MV XLPE cables can be protected by radial or longitudinal protec-tion against water penetration. Water is able to penetrate the cable through outer sheath damages at the joints or termination ends. Lon-
Picture 1. Water swellable materials can be hard water blocking compounds or dry materials such as water swellable powders or water swellable tapes and yarns.
Water blocking in medium voltage XLPE cables explained
gitudinal water blocking is the most appropriate means of protection for MV XLPE cables. Water blocking techniquesWater blocking is realised through the prevention of water flow inside the cable as well as between the elements of the cable. This is achieved by filling the free space within the cable with water blocking materials. In the instance of water penetration through a dam-aged outer sheath, the water blocking materials will start the blocking process against water and moisture ingress.
Each stage of the cable design is analysed and all interfaces within the cable are water blocked. Where electrical contact is required between the interfaces of the cable, then semi-conductive materials are utilised.Water blocking materialsWater swellable materials (Picture 1) can be hard water blocking compounds or dry materials such as water swellable powders or water swellable
tapes and yarns. The use of tapes and yarns was found to be the most appropriate method of water blocking from a manufacturing and an application perspective. Water blocking of conductorsWater blocking of conductors is a crucial step in the design of the cable. This is achieved by ap-plying a yarn in the centre of the conductor and water swellable tapes over each layer of wires. Picture 2(a) shows an example of a conductor with water swellable materials; Picture 2(b) as it turns blue in the presence of moisture.
It is essential to ensure that conductivity of electrical current is maintained after apply-ing tapes to the conductor. This was tested by measuring the resistance of the conductor. Aberdare achieves this through compaction of
the conductors. Compaction of the conductors with the tapes forms a framework structure on the tape thereby maintaining conductivity.
Tests were conducted at Aberdare’s laboratories in Port Elizabeth to verify the increase on conductor tempera-ture due to the additional tapes within the conductor. The tests were witnessed by customers from Eskom Brackenfell and City Power.
The specification states that there should be no more than a 2°C temperature change when a cable connector is applied. This test is called a heat cycling test. The test was successfully passed and the results verified. Samples have been sent to a testing house in France to conduct further load cycling tests. Verification of all tests has a huge benefit for installers as they would not be required to remove the tapes when jointing or terminating cable ends.Water blocking of amouringWater blocking of armouring is achieved by ap-plying a generous layer of bitumen to the armour. This seals the crevices between the armour wires and enhances the corrosion resistance of the armouring (Picture 3).
Enquiries: (011) 396-8000
Picture 3. This seals the crevices between the armour wires and enhances the corrosion resistance of the armouring.
Picture 2(a) shows an example of a conductor with water swellable materials.
CWIEME Berlin, the world’s largest and most com-prehensive event in the coil winding, insulation and electrical manufacturing industry will be held from 24 to 26 June at Messe Berlin, in Germany.
Over 7 000 engineers, designers, buyers and academics from around the world will visit CWIEME Berlin 2014 – the largest annual meeting place for the global coil winding, insulation and electrical manufacturing community. The three-day event, held in Germany’s buzzing capital, will feature some 750 suppliers from over 40 countries – including top names ABB, Alstom, Euro Tanciatura, Hidria, Voestalpine and Von Roll – displaying the latest coils, electric motors, electromagnetic insulation materials, transformers and repairs solutions.
Coil winding expo in BerlinNow in its 18th year, CWIEME Berlin 2014 is set to be bigger and better than ever before with a wide range of products on show.
“CWIEME Berlin is not just an opportunity to source new products and suppliers, but to network, keep an eye on the competition – and learn about all the latest trends and technical advances,” says Chloe Theobald, content manager for CWIEME Berlin.
At CWIEME Central, the main seminar hub, visitors will be able to attend technical presentations and panel discussions on topics such as:• Revenues, regulation and market opportunities for
the LV and MV motor industries.• Wireless power transfer and inductive charging de-
sign for increased e-mobility.• Advances in OIP bushings for improved safety
in HVDC equipment.• REACH and the ‘Greening’ of technology de-
bate.• Climatic resilience and risk mitigation for off-
shore wind transformers.• Breakthroughs in nanoscience discoveries of
new magnetic materials.Speakers will include top industry experts: Prof Ivan Schuller, director of the Centre for Advanced Nanoscience (CAN) at the University of California-San Diego; Paulo Cardano, (OIP Bushings, Alstom Grid); Prof Martin Doppelbauer (Karlsruhe Institute of Technology); Dr Rolf Winter, (Electrical Winding & Insulation Systems Division) at ZVEI; and Dr Faical Turki (Paul Vahle GmBH).
Meanwhile, CWIEME Berlin’s Machinery Trail will provide regular live product presentations and machinery demonstrations across a wide variety of exhibitor stands, allowing visitors to see the latest technology in action.
Enquiries: http://www.coilwindingexpo.com/berlin
A link to your Wireman’s License
Go to: http://www.crown.co.za/sparks_electrical_news.htm
and click on the P & T Technology logo.
Picture 2(b) shows that it turns blue in the presence of moisture.
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
BUYERS'
Grafo Wiremarkers AfricaFull range of labelling requirementsLapp Group SAFull range of labelling requirements
Labelling
ACDC DynamicsFull range of energy billing requirementsEaton Electric SAFull range of energy billing requirementsFerroTechFull range of energy billing requirementsMagnet Electrical SuppliesFull range of energy billing requirementsRadiant GroupRange of energy billing solutionsThorn Electrical DistributorsCarlo Gavazzi energy management softwareVoltexFull range of energy billing requirements
Energy billing
ACDC DynamicsFull range of load management solutionsAlstom Protection & ControlLoad shedding relaysCBI Electric: Low VoltageFull range of load shedding relays, etcFerroTechFull range of load management requirementsMagnet Electrical SuppliesFull range of load management solutionsMCE Global SuppliersOnesto load shed relays, electronic load shed relayOmronRelaysPower Panels and Electrical Full range of load management solutionsThorn Electrical DistributorsCarlo Gavazzi energy control metersTimecountPowermonitor A2000VoltexFull range of load management requirements
Load management
A&A Dynamic DistributorsFull range of switchgearActom Electrical ProductsSBV indoor equipment, SBV3+3E, SBV4+4E, SBV5+5E, SBV-24, vacuum intern pres, ring main units and extensible switchgear, compact MV switchgearAllbroInsulators and busbar supportsAlstom Protection & ControlLV municipal electricity distribution; metering and distribution enclosuresARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of switchgearCBI Electric: Low VoltageFull range of switchgearEaton Electric SAFull range of switchgearLegrandMiniature circuit breakers from 1 – 125A; b, c and d-curve moulded case circuit breakers from 16 – 1 600A; air circuit breakers from 800 – 6 300A Magnet Electrical SuppliesFull range of switchgearMCE Global SuppliersPushbuttons, control devices, pilot lights, emergency stops, toggle switches, control stations, time switches, temperature controllers, pendant controls, joysticks, float switches, fireman switches, micro switches, mini switches, limit switches, foot switches, ammeter switchesMeggerMegger test instruments for LV and MV switchgearOmronLow voltage switchgearSabelcoAdvanced LV electrical assembliesPMCGFull range of switchgearPower Panels and Electrical Full range of switchgearVoltexFull range of switchgearZest Electric MotorsFull range of switchgear
SwitchgearManufacturers & contacts
ABBDudley Bath Aberdare CablesAnnelene SivalingumACDC DynamicsSara Ross AcorpRaj/Charles/JamesActom Electrical ProductsIsabel Magalhaes AllbroRyan AllanAlstom Protection & ControlFaisal Hoosen/Sven Siege/Bradley LubbeAlvern CablesStephen LiasidesARB Electrical WholesalersArvinash Ramdass CabstrutSales CBI-electric: low voltageSalesComtestVal VerwerControlgear ProductsSalesCrabtree Electrical AccessoriesAndre le RouxEaton Electric SAMarlene CoetzeeEngineering Data SystemsRudolf Keller FGW GeneratorsRajen NaidooHV TestSean GoodwinLapp Group SAGrant JoyceLegrandLuk IvensMajor TechWerner GrobbelaarMCE Global SuppliersSalesMegger Marius PitzerNational CablesPaul Menge OmronSalesR&C InstrumentationSteve Edwards Radiant GroupGerard PillayRittalJason McBeathSchneider ElectricNico van der MerweShorrock AutomationChris HuxhamStrut-AheadJonathan OllerheadStone-StamcorTheo Momple Spescom MeasuregraphTrevor Leong TimecountJos LaurencikUniversal CablesMartin ElseVoltexLizel de JagerVoltex LightingHugh WardVoltex LsisGary PatersonWaco IndustriesStephen van BuurenZest Electric MotorsStephen Cook
AllbroPole mounted distribution boxesAlstom Protection & ControlLV municipal, utility distribution and meteringARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of pavement cubicles and boxesEaton Electric SAFull range of pavement cubicles and boxesLegrandFull range of enclosures in mild steel, polycarbonate and stainless steelPolyboxFull range of ground mount distribution kiosks and pole mount enclosures, populated on requestThorn Electrical DistributorsEnclosuresVoltexFull range of pavement cubicles and boxes
Pavement cubicles and boxes
Distributors & contacts
Engineering Data SystemsRudolf KellerFerroTechKevin NorrisFGW GeneratorsRajen NaidooGrafo Wiremarkers AfricaCliff TheunissenHV TestSean GoodwinMagnet Electrical SuppliesKevin GovenderMajor TechWerner GrobbelaarMCE Global SuppliersSalesNational Cables Paul MengePMCGHannes Schwartz or Colin LaubscherPowermite AfricaS RoedigerPower Panels and Electrical Andy van der MerweR&C InstrumentationSteve EdwardsSabelcoLudi ErasmusSicame SALiezel FesterSinetechHerbert TeubnerSpazio LightingSales managerThorn Electrical DistributorsStephen Rogerson
Actom Electrical ProductsDistribution transformers from 16kVA to 5mVA, power transformers from 6mVA to 315mVAAllbroTransformer bushings and tap change switches, protection equipmentARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of MV to LV transformersEaton Electric SAFull range of MB to LV transformersFerroTechFull range of MV to LV transformersLegrandCompact DIN rail mounted transformers; LV transformers; power supplies up to 50AMagnet Electrical SuppliesFull range of MV to LV transformersMeggerMegger test instruments for power and distribution transformersPowermiteManufacturer of MV to LV transformersSchneider ElectricElectronic LV lighting transformersSpazio LightingMV and LV transformersVoltexFull range of MV to LV transformersZest Electric MotorsFull range of MV to LV transformers
ACDC DynamicsFull range of building management systemsComtestFluke 983 particle counter; Fluke 200 series carbon monoxide/dioxide testerEaton Electric SAFull range of building management systemsElectro-Test InstrumentationFull range of building management systemsOmronOmron PLCPower Panels and Electrical Full range of building management systemsSchneider ElectricC-Bus building management systemThorn Electrical DistributorsCarlo Gavazzi Dupline SystemVoltexFull range of building management systems
Building management systems
Actom Electrical ProductsCompact mini substations; maximum rating: 22kV up to 1 000kVA available in mild steel, fibre glass or 3CR12; enclosures in Type A or B configurationARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of mini substationsEaton Electric SAFull range of mini substationsLegrandExtendable mild steel enclosuresMCE Global SuppliersHyundai and Onesto MCCBs, MCBs and ACBsVoltexFull range of mini substationsZest Electric MotorsFull range of mini substations
Mini substations
E energy measurement and supply14
MV to LV transformers
Disclaimer: Information will be published as sup-plied. Only manufacturers who meet the deadline are
included in the guide. The onus is on manufacturers to ensure that the editor
is notified of any changes to existing listings.
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
GUIDEACDC DynamicsFull range of measuring instrumentsActom Electrical ProductsFull range of metering instrumentsAlstom Protection & ControlMeter test blocksARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of metering instrumentsEaton Electric SAFull range of metering instrumentsFerroTechFull range of measuring instrumentsH.V. TestSeaward HV test sticks; Rogioski fully insulated 1000V clamp-on meters; full range of reliable power meters; Seaward HV testers, Fameca indicators; Baur and Vanguard megometersLapp Group SAFull range measuring instrumentsMagnet Electrical SuppliesCatu MV and HV voltage detector complete with audible and visual alarm, contact type; Chauvin Arnoux current, power and harmonic clamp-on meters; Chauvin Arnoux Qualistar power quality analyser, digital with scope and 4Mb of storage; Metrahit multimeters with optional data logging featuresMajor TechCompact power analysers; power quality analysers; current loggers; current and voltage loggers; leakage and loggers; full range of professional ac and ac/dc clamp meters; compact ac and ac/dc clamp metersMCE Global SuppliersAmmeters, voltmetersR&C InstrumentationInfrared single point and thermography measurementThorn Electrical DistributorsCarlo Gavazzi measuring instrumentsTimecountPower meters, electrical transducersWaco IndustriesCarlo Gavazzi energy management; Smart power analysers; transducers; serial interface and software for all eletr5ical parameters; Wibre voltage testers; pocket screwdriver testersWaco IndustriesWide range of measuring instrumentsVoltexFull range of measuring instruments
Metering (measuring instruments)
ABBFull range of contactors, circuit breakers, and relaysACDC DynamicsFull range of DBs, main breakers, circuit breakers, etcAllbroDistribution boards and ready boardsAlstom Protection & ControlLV air circuit breakersARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of DBs, mains breakers, etcCBI Electric: Low VoltageFull range of DBs, breakers and relaysControlgear ProductsFull range from all leading manufacturersCrabtree Electrical AccessoriesA range of 6kA MCBs (includes isolators, earth leakages and miniature circuit breakers); a range of 12 and 18 DIN flush mount distribution boardsEaton Electric SAFull range of DBs, main breakers, circuit breakers, etcLegrandSurface and flush mount DBs; full range of breakers and protection devices; Lexic contactors; Lexic MCB; Lexic MCCB breakersMagnet Electrical SuppliesFull range of DBs, mains breakers, circuit breakers, etcMajor TechFull range of distribution boards including flush mount Econo boards, surface mount IP65 boards, IP65 clear/grey enclosures and IP55 junction boxes; specialists in populated ready boards 3kA and 6kA mini circuit breakers, isolator and earth leakage switchesMCE Global SuppliersOnesto circuit breakers, earth leakages, Onesto distribution boards – flush and surface mountMeggerMegger test instruments for circuit breakersPMCGFull range of contactors, breakers and relaysPolyboxMild and stainless steel wall mount and floor standing distribution boards and MCCs populated on requestPower Panels and Electrical Full range of DBs, main breakers, circuit breakers, etcSchneider ElectricSeries 4 DBs and circuit breakersStrut-AheadComprehensive range of contactors, breakers, and relaysVoltex LsisFull range of circuit breakersWaco IndustriesWide range of circuit breakersZest Electric MotorsFull range of DBs, main breakers, circuit breakers etc
DBs, main breakers, circuit breakers, overload
AC DC DynamicsFull range of uninterruptible power suppliesAcorpFull range of standby/backup systemsActom Electrical ProductsFull range of standby/backup systemsAlstom Protection & ControlGeneral protection relaysARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of standby/backup systemsEaton Electric SAFull range of standby/backup systemsEngineering Data SystemsFull range of uninterruptible power suppliesFerroTechFull range of standby/backup systemsFGW GeneratorsFull range of standby/backup systems (standby gensets, UPSs, etc)Lapp Group SAFull range of standby/backup systemsLegrandFull range of modular, conventional and line-interactive UPSsMagnet Electrical SuppliesFull range of standby, backup systemsMCE Global SuppliersGeneratorsPower Panels and Electrical Full range of standby/backup systemsRittalFull range of standby/backup systemsStone-StamcorYuasa sealed lead acid batteriesZest Electric MotorsFull range of standby/backup systems
Standby/backup systems
Aberdare CablesComplete range of electric cableAllbroJunction boxesARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of cablingLapp Group SAFull range of cablingLegrandFull range of cablingMagnet Electrical SuppliesFull range of cablingRadiant GroupSOEW – South Ocean Electrical WiringVoltexFull range of cables
Cabling
AcorpFull range of metersActom Electrical ProductsSingle phase direct kWh meters, single and three phase Ct operated kWh meter, single phase kWh meter with cyclometer, single phase meter with LCD display and polycarbonate coverAllbroMeter boxesAlstom Protection & ControlThree-phase and single-phase electromechanical and electronic meters; three-phase and single-phase electromechanical and electronic meters; measurement centres; three-phase programmable electronic metersARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of metersCBI Electric: Low VoltageFull range of metersEaton Electric SAFull range of meters FerroTechFull range of metersLegrandAnalogue and digital DIN rail mounted metersMagnet Electrical SuppliesFull range of metersMCE Global SuppliersAvanti current monitors, analogue panel meters PMCGFull range of metersPower Panels and Electrical Full range of metersRadiant GroupRange of metersR&C InstrumentationTwo-wire 4-20mA CTsThorn Electrical DistributorsCarlo Gavazzi energy metersTimecountSineax A210 meter; Power monitor A2000 meterVoltexFull range of metersWaco IndustriesFull range of meters
Meters
(010) 202-5000
(010) 202-3300
(011) 894-8341
(011) 396-8000
(011) 824-7400
(011) 822-1551
(011) 683-0641
(011) 452-1415
(011) 742-2044
(011) 652-2000
(011) 879-2000
(021) 557-6572
(011) 254-6400
(011) 396-8000
Eenergy measurement and supply 15
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
RUTHERFORD, a wholly owned subsidiary of JSE-listed Hudaco Trading, has announced that Martin Peterson will take over the reins as its new CEO from February 2014, upon the retirement of the company’s current CEO, Bob Cameron-Smith, who has been with the Group for the past 41 years.
Peterson, a Chartered Accountant, was ap-pointed from Filter & Hose Solutions, another Hudaco Group company. He was part of the management team that originally owned Filter & Hose Solutions and was very involved in the sale of this business to Hudaco in 2010.
“Taking over the leadership of such a mature and well-entrenched business is exciting and
Industry stalwart steps down
THE Comtest Group, Fluke’s authorised Test and Measurement Distributor for South and southern Africa, has introduced the Fluke Ti105 and TiR105 thermal imagers, the latest addition to Fluke’s series of lightweight, rugged, and easy to use imagers.
The Ti105 and TiR105 offer the popular Fluke IR-Fusion technology feature, not normally found in thermal imagers in this price class. The Ti105 helps plant technicians, HVAC/R professionals, and electri-cians maintain and inspect electrical and mechani-cal equipment and components, enabling them to save time and money by finding potential problems before they become costly failures. The Ti105 allows technicians to troubleshoot in seconds, lessens the likelihood of unplanned downtime, and allows regu-lar inspections from a safe distance.
The TiR105 enables building inspection and energy audit professionals to evaluate and report insulation problems, air leakage, moisture issues, or construc-tion defects delivering a huge competitive advantage by helping them work faster and more efficiently. It quickly documents visible proof of problems so that repairs can be made and then verifies that the repairs have been done correctly.
The Ti/TiR105’s advanced features include the Fluke-patented IR-Fusion (picture-in-picture) tech-nology, which overlays a PIP infrared image over a full-spectrum image allowing users to identify and document problem areas.
Enquiries: (011) 608-8520
Extraordinary performance from an everyday imager
challenging,” Peterson says. “With four different product ranges, four markets and four sales forc-es, Rutherford is certainly not a one-dimensional business. The power tool business operates in a particularly stimulating market, because of the tough competition in this arena. It’s necessary to pay close attention to range, pricing and route to market, as it’s very much a moving target.
“However each of the four divisions is headed up by directors who are experts in their own right and these assets, together with the depth of skills across the entire business, will provide an excellent platform for building future growth.”
Cameron-Smith comments that Peterson’s ex-
cellent commercial background and open mind, combined with the strengths of the existing business, are a definite recipe for future success as the company continues to consolidate its posi-tion as a leading supplier.
Cameron-Smith moved over from another part of the Hudaco Group to Rutherford 21 years ago, when the company was primarily focused on marketing Makita power tools and woodwork-ing machinery. Under his leadership, Rutherford restructured in 1998 by incorporating three of the Group’s trading businesses, Mercury Marine, VI Instruments, and FTS Industries and rationalis-ing non-core product ranges.
“We made it a focus of the business to build these brands and our efforts have paid off, because today Mercury is number two in the local market and Makita is one of the leading power tool brands — very possibly the second or third biggest privately owned Makita distributor in the world. Rutherford’s fourth division, F.T.S Industries, has become the largest importer and distributor of blind rivets and riveting tools to all sectors of Southern African industry and VI Instruments, trading in high-tech instrumentation for the construction and mining industries, has earned the distinc-tion of being the market leader in compaction measurements for road construction.”100 yearsIn 2012 Rutherford celebrated 100 years of ser-vice to the Southern African industrial arena.
The company holds three key ISO accredita-tions: ISO 9001-2008 for quality, ISO 14001-2004 for environment and OHSAS ISO 18001-2007 for occupational safety and these standards are continually updated to incorporate the latest amendments.
Enquiries: (011) 878-2600
T tools of the trade 16
Rob Cameron-Smith with Martin Peterson, the new CEO of Ratherford.
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
tools of the trade T17
DEHN’s ASP non-contact voltage detector kit is designed for use in high voltage overhead line networks and outdoor switchgear installations from 110kV to 420kV, 50Hz. The ASP electronic indicator has an inte-grated self-testing element that automatically tests the electronic circuit for correct operation after the indicator is switched on.
With its LED display, the ASP indicates readiness for operation, volt-age present or no voltage present. An intermittent acoustic signal also indicates voltage present.
A green ring on the ASP L type non-contact voltage detector, with its electric field sensor, is used to make contact with the last earthed fitting in such a way that the electric field sensor points in the direction of the conductor cable fixed at the other end of the insulator. The green ring on the ASP S type, with its electric field sensor, is used to make contact with the lowest insulator plate at a right angle. If a protective fitting is located on the earth side, contact is made at the next possible insulator plate above the protective fitting. The type S is designed for outdoor installations, Type L is for overhead lines and the type S/L is suitable for both outdoor installations and overhead lines.
Battery replacement is fast and easy with no need for additional tools. Low battery conditions are indicated by both LEDs and an acoustic signal when the detector is switched on.
DEHN is represented locally by Surgetek.Enquiries: (011) 792-1303
Non–contact voltage detector kit for HV lines
MAJOR Tech’s VDE pliers are manu-factured to international standards using the latest technology and finest materials, says Werner Grobbelaar. “All the cutting edges on the Major Tech VDE 1 000V pliers are manufactured from chrome vanadium steel, induc-tion hardened in a polished finish to guarantee effortless cutting and provide long lasting durability.”
He explains that the specially designed impact-resistant handles with non-slip grip for comfort offer maximum torque transfer and roll resistance. A full range of choice insulated pliers includes combination pliers, long nose pliers, diagonal cut-
ting pliers and wire stripping pliers. “Major Tech’s insulated tools are
made of high quality materials and are tested in accordance with national and international standards,” says Grobbelaar, “and, taking other safety regulations into considera-tion, these tools offer the greatest pos-sible protection for people working on live systems with voltages of up to 1 000V ac and dc.”
Major Tech’s VDE pliers are suitable for industrial applications and are fully insulated to VDE/GS and EN60900 standards to protect users from electric shocks up to 1 000V.
Enquiries: (011) 822-1551
A must-have range of VDE pliers
BOSCH Power Tools has launched the Bosch PSB 850-2 RE impact drill featuring screw driving and impact drilling functions for material-specific applications.
Bosch Power Tools SA senior brand manager, Juergen Lauer, says the PSB 850-2 RE impact drill has an ergonomic and robust design with a robust, insulated aluminium gear
Impact drill with screw driving function
The Amprobe TACH20 hand-held tachometer accurately measures rotational or surface speed as well as length. It comes with a large LCD digital display al-lowing the user to easily read the measurement. It also has a built in memory function that permits automatic storage of maximum, minimum, average values plus the last measurement displayed. The TACH20 is supplied with all the necessary accessories and is designed with optimal mechanical stability to ensure accurate, reliable, and repeatable measurements. In addition to the mechanical adapter that accepts a variety of tips, as well as the surface speed wheel for contact rpm measurement, the TACH20 can perform non-contact measurement by using the infrared beam function. Additional features include auto power-off function; easy to select units and mode functions; and rpm selection using infrared beam or adapter.
Enquiries: (011) 608-8541
Hand-held, combination tachometer now available
housing with a soft grip for increased user comfort. There is a lock-on but-ton for continuous operation and the exceptional tool handling ensures user control and comfort.
“It is compact, weighing 2, 5kg, and has a 360° adjustable rotational direction auxiliary handle for left and right hand users. Its lock-off function ensures increased user safety through the avoidance of unintended starts,” says Lauer.
“There is a dust extraction port that allows for the addition of a dust extraction system.”
The impact drill has a powerful 850W motor with a two-speed gear-box and a forward/reverse function. The high torque gear is more power-ful but slower in comparison to the high-speed gear, which is faster but with less power so the user can select the correct gear according to the application. There is a single-sleeve keyless chuck with Bosch auto-lock for fast and easy tool bit changes and a depth stop to ensure accurate drill-ing depths.
Enquiries: (011) 651-9600
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
T tools of the trade 18
THE South African division of Bosch Power Tools has introduced the Bosch GLL 3-50 Professional multi-line laser, a simple and convenient solution for short distance levelling and transfer applica-tions.
Bosch Industrial Power Tools SA senior brand man-ager Craig Berridge says the GLL 3-50 Professional is a self-levelling, multi-function laser that offers the user accuracy, clear visibility and a sufficient working range in interior sites.
Berridge explains: “The GLL 3-50 Professional simultane-ously projects up to three la-ser lines, namely a laser cross both forwards and upwards and a vertical line to the right, and projects a plumb point downwards. The plumb point makes rotation around the tool’s own axis possible. The unique adjustable turning base makes it possible to conveniently align the tool in order to measure and transfer heights, right angles and
plumb points quickly, easily and precisely.”
The unique turning base of the GLL 3-50 Professional has a fine adjustable knob, a fixed leg, an adjustable leg and a locking ring. The telescopic legs of the turning base enable the user to see the plumb point-down constantly without effort. The GLL 3-50 Professional multi-line laser is easily attached to the turning base by sliding on.
This offers higher efficiency and user comfort. “The ex-tendable feet of the turning base make it easy to see and mark the plumb point in an ergonomic position as it is always convenient to have the plumb point visible,” adds Berridge.
The GLL 3-50 Professional is easy-to-use.
The on/off switch is clearly visible and has a pendulum lock to secure the tool during transport. There is a clearly marked button for switching the individual laser lines and
the laser point on and off, as well as a button for switching between continuous mode and pulse mode. The laser lines are visible up to 10m and there is a working range of up to 50m with a receiver. Once on the tool levels itself within 4 seconds, if this is not possi-ble due to uneven terrain the out-of-level function flashes a light to alert the user thereby ensuring accurate alignment.
Berridge says that there are many advantages to the GLL 3-50 Professional.
“The GLL 3-50 Professional offers many benefits to the user. It is simple to operate and lightweight at only 0,9kg with an opening angle of 120° horizontal and 130° vertical.
An LED indicates the bat-tery status and it is protected against dust and splash water.
The GLL 3-50 Professional is accurate to within 0,3mm per metre, making it a highly accurate tool ideal for any craftsman,” he concludes.
Enquiries: (011) 651-9600
Accurate easy-to-use multi-line laser
KNIPEX Germany, well-known for its German manufactured quality pliers has introduced the Multicrimp crimping tool for most crimping applications. This compact, inexpensive and light-weight crimping tool is ideal for any electri-cian who needs to crimp a wide variety of crimp lugs. “And it eliminates the need to carry five different crimpers,” says Garry Lumpe. Crimping dies for non- insulated, insulated, end sleeve, plug connectors and non-insulated butt connectors can be changed quickly and easily. The Multicrimp is powerful, ergonomically designed and gives the same reliable crimping results as a fixed die crimper.
Enquiries: (011) 396-4065
Reliable all-in-one crimping tool
NEARLY every factory, shopping mall, airport, office complex and high-rise
apartment has and electrical room
providing power distribu-tion throughout the facility. Most of these
electrical equipment rooms are in the basement or lower floors, out of sight and in
many cases out of mind… until there is a fail-ure, says R&C Instrumentation’s Steve Edwards.
“The power distribution system usually includes high voltage metal-clad switchgear, cast resin transformers, low voltage switchgear and
Busbar temperature monitoring the safe waypanel boards. A fault or failure in any one of these components can result in power outages, loss of productivity, and even fire or explo-sions,” he warns.
“Routine checks of these components normally consist of current and voltage measurements and, most recently, thermographic ‘snapshots’ of the temperature distribution in the switchgear. Safety procedures greatly restrict direct access to these components, hence the new practice of installing Infrared Windows to allow infra-red cameras to take images without opening the doors.
“IRISS has approved windows and panels allowing thermal im-ages may be taken through a special polymer material whilst not reducing the integrity of the panel.
“With approved IR windows and panels it is not necessary to isolate, remove covers, switch on with open doors to live connections and then switch off replace covers and put the plant back into service. Simply take the reading through the IR transparent material. This will
save plant downtime and labour, which both save money and workers’ safety is enhanced,” he says.
Why is temperature such a critical measurement? “Overload, phase imbalance, power factor, corrosion and poor
electrical connections all result in the generation of heat. Any generation of heat is an indication of loss of energy and wasted power. Heat also contributes to a shortening of the life of the equipment by up to 85%. The conditions may develop slowly over time and can result in a catastrophic fault.
“A ‘snapshot’ using a thermal imager only provides an analysis for less than one second out of a 24-hour operational period and may only be taken once per year. If the system is critical for total plant operation this once per year check may not be adequate.
On plant service units, such as large air compressors, we always measure bearing temperatures and vibration to attempt to predict failures; we can do the same with the busbar connections
to ensure the correct temperature and limit outages due to busbar and cable connection burning. Continuous monitoring of the busbar within a switchgear cabinet can provide both instantaneous alarms for fault conditions and trend analysis for predictive maintenance,” he explains.
Predictive maintenance is a most effective tool to prolong the life and efficiency of the equipment and to minimise shutdowns. A trend detected during continuous monitoring will allow for maintenance of the equipment at your choosing to minimise downtime.
The most effective solution to busbar temperature monitor-ing is the use of infrared point sensors. Infrared sensors provide safe non-contact measurement of real-time busbar tempera-tures.
“The latest development from Raytek is the Mi3 series and is ideally suited for this monitoring function. The different optics between types of sensors allows the sensor to be safely mounted within the cabinet at a distance from the busbar to avoid flashover to the sensor and electrical magnetic interfer-ence (EMI). The sensor head and mounting bracket do not require any special insulating material for mounting to the equipment structure.
“The sensor electronics are mounted remotely from the sen-sor head and outside the switchgear enclosure.
The ability to have multiple heads to one electronics and for the electronics to give normal analogue outputs as well as communicate over Profibus or Modbus, makes this range totally suited for this application,” says Edwards.
Enquiries: 086 111 4217
Reach your target market...– call Carin Hannay at (011) 622-4770
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
energy measurement and supply
AS Zest WEG Group company, Shaw Controls prepares to des-patch the last two units of an order placed by a large materials handling company for seven electrical houses (E-Houses), the company is positioning itself to elevate the design, manufacture and supply of this technology to one of its leading offerings.
The seven E-Houses will be installed onto stacker and reclaimer machines being deployed at a coal mine and sea port in Mozambique.
“This is the largest single order in our company’s history to date and our first E-House order as a company within the Zest WEG Group. Much of the design information was leveraged off our holding group company in Brazil where numerous E-House
projects have been successfully completed by WEG.
This order was secured against both local and international competition,” Shaw Controls managing director Bevan Rich-ards, says. “We have a clear vision for future growth and expan-sion into various markets and we regard the E-House market as very appealing, as we’re able to combine our total product offering into a complete E-House solution.
This technology is relatively new in South Africa, compared to other parts of the world, but it is becoming more attractive than the traditional containerised substation solution built into either a six or 12 metre stand-ard marine container, primarily because these E-House units can
be manufactured to customised dimensions.
“Traditionally, Shaw Controls has been involved in supply-ing containerised substation solutions, but industry in Africa is definitely gravitating towards custom-built E-Houses that suit customers’ requirements in terms of the amount of equipment that can be fitted into it, which often exceeds the limits of a container.”
Work on the seven E-Houses began in March 2013 and the final units will shortly be despatched. Shaw Controls has designed, procured and installed all the electrical equipment contained within the E-Houses including medium voltage (MV) switchgear, MV transformers, low voltage (LV) motor control centres, LV variable speed drives,
HVAC, fire detection and suppression, PLCs and cabling. Many of these products were sup-plied by Zest WEG Group’s parent company WEG in Brazil, notably the MV dry type transformers and the variable speed drives.
The order included electrical and instrumentation design for the full electrical and instrumen-tation installation of the seven stackers and reclaimers. The design was handed over to the customer who has appointed a contractor to carry out site work according to the design.
The E-Houses are being trans-ported to two different locations. All seven units have been road freighted from Johannesburg to Mozambique under abnormal load conditions.
Enquiries: (011) 723-6000
E-House units manufactured to customised dimensions
3-D Solid Works model of an E-house for a coal yard reclaimer.
One of the E-Houses departs for installation on a coal yard stacker.
THE Megger MDP series of distribution profilers provides power utilities with accurate and extensive information to precisely evaluate loading on feeders/overhead lines and to identify needed upgrades or replacement. Three different models range from a simple current-only ver-sion to the most advanced unit that offers a number of market-requested features. Each MDP
Easily installed distribution profilers
E19
cally identical and weigh less than 2.1kg, they are easily mountable to many readily available clamp sticks for installation on live lines. Cable diameters from 30mm to 50mm can be accommodated.
A mounted LED located on the bottom of the installed unit indicates battery status.
Megger is represented locally by Surgetek.
All content courtesy of MeggerEnquiries: (011) 792-1303
can be easily upgraded to the next model at any time.
System planners, distribution engineers and troubleshooters can easily access, review and re-cord (via a date and time stamp) the following: peak load value/time growth studies; phase/load imbalance surveys; time/day fluctuation analysis; and capaci-tor bank placement analysis.
Each MDP unit has a large non-volatile memory, which allows for nearly unlimited data record-ing. The RMS response interval is user-selectable from 10 to 60 cycles and the RMS storage inter-val may be set from 2s to 6h.
The waveform capture is synchronised with the RMS storage interval with a selectable number of sequential waveforms from 1 to 60 cycles per sample, dependent on mode.
An internal set of four eas-ily replaceable commercial ‘AA’ batteries powers the unit. In the event of a battery failure, there is no potential loss of information.
Depending on the response and RMS storage intervals selected, the profilers can record for days, weeks, or even months.
For example, with a response interval of ten minutes (data averaged and stored every ten minutes), the profiler would allow recording for more than 60 days when powered by a new set of batteries.
If the battery reaches a low charge condition, the unit au-tomatically stops recording and saves all data for later recovery.
The profilers are quickly installed at any point on the distribution line. An arrow on the back of the MDP unit should point towards the load.
Since all units are mechani-
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
THE launch of Apollo’s 600 portable appliance tester heralds a ‘new era’ in risk-based portable appliance testing as well as health and safety management.
With built-in risk assessment tools for any workplace hazard and a variety of testing and inspection reports, including portable appliance testing; fire detection and emergency lighting, the Apollo 600 offers an all-in-one solution to manag-ing a risk-based approach to health and safety in any workplace. Comprehensive records can be kept, including test and inspection reports, risk assessments and visual evidence in conjunction with Seaward’s PATGuard 3 Health and Safety Edition.
Apollo 600 follows in the footsteps
of Seaward’s long line of trusted PAT testers, offering a comprehensive suite of fast and accurate electrical safety tests to enable any workplace appliance to be tested, including three-phase equipment and residual current devices (RCDs). Apollo 600 also enables point-to-point testing of fixed appliances and features a built-in universal risk assess-ment tool allowing hazards to be re-corded, risk scores to be calculated and corrective actions to be planned and documented. For health and safety in-spections outside of portable appliance testing, Apollo 600 also hosts a range of on-board reports for fire detection and emergency lighting.
Enquiries: (011) 608-8541
A new era in portable appliance testing
A new benchmark in affordable, high accuracy power metering SCHNEIDER Electric has announced the introduction of the PowerLogic PM5000 series power meter.
This newest addition to the Power-Logic portfolio of power and energy meters is engineered on a compact and affordable platform. A range of models covers the full spectrum of commercial and industrial applications, within a wide range of budgets.
The highly accurate and reliable me-ters are compliant with IEC 62052/53, IEC 61557-12, and IEC 61053-22 meter-ing standards: PM5100 and PM5300 models are Class 0.5S while PM5500 models are Class 0.2S.
Each meter in the PowerLogic PM5000 series offers combinations of features intended to fully comple-ment the requirements of energy cost management applications. Essential features such as different communica-tion and I/O options, a battery-backed real-time clock, alarms, multiple tariff schedules, MID compliance and data and event logging ensure the PM5000 series has the capabilities to perform energy cost allocation and tenant metering/sub-billing.
“Any uncertainty about billing for energy costs is removed, because the PowerLogic PM5000 series is meticu-lously engineered for high-end energy cost management applications,” says Nathan Potgieter, offer manager for Eco Business at Schneider Electric South Africa. “Best of all, it combines high quality and affordability in a meter that is simple to order, easy to use and installs without tools in a standard DIN sized cut-out.”
He adds that any meter in the PM5000 series is an excellent tool to help users increase operational effi-ciency, network reliability and business performance.
The meters support information
SCHNEIDER Electric now provides a straightforward facility manage-ment solution to allocate consumption costs and, at the same time, achieve maximum savings. Critical to the overall solution is Acti 9 Smartlink, a simple, powerful panel communication system that gives users complete control over their electrical installations.
Exclusive to Schneider Electric, the system easily connects users’ switchboards to facility management solutions. It collects and analy-ses data from the energy meters in each area, for each type of load or circuit, and automates, schedules, and controls operation of loads to optimise energy consumption.
An additional benefit is the immediate, precise warnings in case of power issues. Contactors are connected to Acti 9 Smartlink for automatic powering of departments and common areas in a variety of facilities from supermarkets to hospitals.
“In summary, deploying Acti 9 Smartlink results in cost reductions, thanks to the display of consumption and associated load profiles that are accessible at any time via the Web. It provides a simple auto-matic system to achieve cost allocation and makes any business an attractive place for stakeholders’ energy efficiency values,” says Levy Moholola, product manager at Schneider Electric South Africa.
Enquiries: (011) 254-6400
Solution to providing total control of electrical installations
access in English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Portuguese, Chinese, and Russian. Meters directly connect to networks rated up to 690 V L-L without voltage transformers. Inter-nal memory stores key information and data logging capacities vary de-pending on whether PM5300 models or PM5500 models are specified. The range-topping PM5500 models pro-vide a fourth current input, onboard web pages for viewing real-time and stored information, enhanced har-monics capabilities, and dual Ethernet ports to daisy chain meters together, which saves on installation and wiring costs.
Enquiries: (011) 254-6400
E energy measurement and supply20
Denver Technical Products offers a comprehensive range of clamp CTs for the measurement of ac and dc current, from milliamps up to 8 000A. Jaw sizes vary from 15mmØ up to 83mmØ for cables and bus bars up to 122 x 54mm can be accommodated. Probes are available with voltage or current output or a combination of both. Multi ratio probes are also offered, for example 250/500/1 000A or 1 000/2 000/3 000A.
Enquiries: (011) 626-2023
Clamp CTs for measuring ac and dc current
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
Cyril Berman of Superlume, writes: I refer to the front page article in the March issue of Sparks Electrical News regarding the new socket outlet system for South Africa and, while I agree that this country needed a new system for the reasons raised by Gianfranco Campetti, I would like to raise the following issues:
Why did SA choose to adopt this particular design when no other countries have done so? Noting that there are alternative systems widely used throughout the world, such as the Swiss Schuko outlets, which are equally safe and com-monly used throughout the western world, and the two- and three-pin system used in Australia (which has some of the highest safety standards in the world) and most of south-east Asia, includ-ing China, why did we need to be unique?
We could have adopted either of the two sys-tems above and there would have been no need for extensive research, design, and development, testing, and approvals, etc – and the economies of scale would have made the transition quick, easy, and cheap.
As it is, most foreign travellers coming to SA have to buy adaptors to use their appliances here, and the reverse is the case for SA travellers going abroad. With this new SA system, nothing will change, and adaptors will still be the order of the day.
I further note that the new plugtops are non-rewireable. This means that only appliances that are wired originally with the new plugtops will be suitable for use with this system, and, in order to adapt existing appliances such as hairdryers, ket-tles, toasters etc, one could only cut the cables, remove the existing 16A plugtops and join them to cables with the new plugtops already wired on, thereby creating a dangerous situation that
SA’s new socket system questioneddid not exist before, and, furthermore, negate any manufacturers guarantee, and transgress the SABS wiring code for appliances.
I could raise many more reasons why this move is, in my opinion, a bad idea but I think there is enough food for thought in the above.Gianfranco Campetti replies: I respond to Mr Berman’s points in the order that he raised them in his letter:
In its original form, IEC60906 was intended to be a ‘worldwide plug and socket system’, which was many years in the making. One of the princi-ples that guided the IEC committee (SC23C) was that it should not be compatible with any of the current IEC systems. This objective was largely met but with one exception: the ‘Europlug’.
Back in the early 1990s, SABS thought it wise to adopt this system for two reasons:
They felt that it was time to move away from the cumbersome and somewhat unsafe large three-pin system and with the advent of a new political landscape on the horizon, they believed that a common Southern African plug and socket system could ‘fall in’ with their plans for harmonising the regional standards and it would be more palatable to our 12 or so SADC neigh-bours if this was an IEC standard rather than a ‘home grown’ one.
The design was, of course, part and parcel of IEC60906 and not developed by any SA entity. The fact that no other country would adopt this standard was not envisaged at that time. All ex-cept Brazil, silently rejected it and after CENELEC was unsuccessful in the European context, about 15 years ago the EU set up a task team to investigate the possibility of standardising plugs and sockets in Europe. However, the task team could not come to an agreement so the project
was shelved.There was always the choice to
use any other system, but this did not happen. I guess there was some national pride at play but no reason was recorded as to the pros and cons of any of the systems mentioned by Mr Berman. I do not agree that the Australian or Swiss systems are as safe as he makes them out to be, for several reasons but this is altogether another subject. The highest safety standard he refers to is ultimately IEC60884-1, which is also embedded in the SA standards for plugs and sockets.
Mr Berman's point about research and design is not based on any factual evidence, firstly SA had a substantial manufacturing base for wiring accessories, any transition to another existing system would be anything other than cheap, easy or quick and it would have ultimately opened up the SA market to imports at the expense of local manufacturers and ultimately SA jobs.
The question of travel adaptors is a sore point for any country, even in Europe where borders are only a few kilometres apart, with few exceptions each has its own national identity and unique plug and socket system. With the new system, the only difference for SA is that our fixed installations will be compatible with the ‘Europlug’, which, in my opinion, is a positive step forward, since any small appliances such as hairdryers, curling tongs, gaming equipment and a myriad chargers, will plug directly into a wall socket, without having to resort to an adaptor.
AN earth continuity conductor serves a critical pur-pose in an electrical system. It ensures that protec-tion can operate and that equipment and people are protected. If the earth continuity conductor is broken or missing - how can you still ensure safety?
For electrical safety it is required to have earth wires connected to the transformer star point in any low voltage (eg 400 V/ 525 V) reticulation system. Earth leakage or protection relays rely on a healthy earth connection because they operate on the current in the earth wire. With a broken earth connection they are worthless. The earth connec-tion can fail due to various causes, including cable theft. When it fails it is tantamount to an electrocu-tion waiting to happen.
Cable theft is often aimed at earth wires because it is safer to cut them; in these cases there is also the high cost of replacing the earth wires which, in some installations, are 70mm2.
If a failure of the earth connection could be detected and communicated as it happens, pro-active measures would be taken to prevent further damage and ensure safety.Earth and cable monitorA recently developed earth and cable monitor (ECM) could be the answer to earth connection fail-ure. It uses an easy-to-install small clamp-on toroid around the cable to be monitored.
It measures the wire resistance, relying on a re-turn path. In most cases the other end of the earth wire or cable has another earth connection which leads back to the distribution point where the ECM is located. This can be another earth wire or cable armouring or even a specially installed pilot wire.
The toroid works partly in a current transformer mode whereby the secondary winding and its ‘burden’ resistor or load resistance is the earth wire running through the toroid, having a connection back to the distribution point. In the case of an open-ended earthing cable a small pilot wire can
Monitor resistance of earth wire and improve safetyBy E Häussermann, Mercutech; and J Warwick, Jojen Supplies
be run to the end point in order to close the loop.
The primary or excitation winding on the toroid is subjected to a near-constant cur-rent of a frequency well above 50Hz. The wire to be monitored and running through the toroid forms the secondary winding with a load resistance.
The toroid also has a signal wind-ing in which a voltage is induced proportional to the voltage on the load resistance which is the resistance of the earth wire.
The primary winding is energised by short current bursts (of a little longer than one 50Hz cycle) during which time the voltage of the signal winding is measured, after going through a band-pass filter.
With the operating frequency being well above 50Hz the clamp-on toroid can be kept small but the measurement will also depend to a small degree on the inductance of the earth wire circuit.
This could be a good thing because the alarm signal is triggered by a change in the measure-ment and therefore also by a change in the circuit inductance.
For example, should an intelligent thief loop an additional wire through the toroid before cutting the earth wire, in an attempt to mask the effect of the open circuit, the ECM would in most cases still detect a large enough change to raise an alarm and display an earth resistance indication.
ECM propertiesFor the standard clamp-on toroid the change in resistance can be set between 0,1– 5 Ohms. The ECM can be set to send an SMS to several telephone numbers in the case of an alarm.
While having the toroid around an earth wire, the signal voltage is also filtered to see a 50 Hz earth fault current. The ECM can be set to raise an alarm and/or send SMS’s and display an earth fault indica-tion when the earth fault current exceeds a precon-figured level. For the standard clamp-on toroid the earth fault alarm can be set in the range 1 – 20A.
The ECM has an RS485 port with an extensive native protocol but can be set to communicate in Modbus. In the SMS and the Modbus message each of the eight inputs is identifiable. For best performance each clamp-on toroid is connected to one input but two clamp-on toroids can be connected to an input with a reduced measure-ment resolution.
The ECM is housed in a DIN-rail mountable enclosure. While it will normally run on a 110 – 220V supply (ac or dc) it can also run from a 12Vdc battery to keep it running and raise alarms during a power failure. It has a built-in charger to charge a 12V lead-acid battery and keep it at full charge.ConclusionCable thieves often target earth continuity con-ductors because cutting and removing them is perceived to be safe. However, a compromised earth continuity conductor can lead to equipment dam-age, injury or even death. This article has described a proactive means of assisting in minimising risks in plants.
Enquiries: Email [email protected] or [email protected].
Eenergy measurement and supply 21
At the moment there is only one manufacturer that produces the SANS 164-2 plug-top and it is rewireable. What we will be waiting for with some anticipation, is the time when appliance manufacturers will supply kettles, irons, toasters, fridges and washing machines with an integrally moulded SANS 164-2 cord set, but I guess that will be in a few years from now.
The changeover to this new system will not mean that the SANS 164-1 (current system) will be banned; it purely means the steady introduc-tion of the compact SANS 164-2, which will be installed side-by-side with SANS 164-1. Currently many SA manufacturers and importers offer such a product, many have already been in-stalled and used effectively in many households and offices.
Letter to the Editor
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
E22
ACDC Dynamics, the sole distributor of Gave Low Voltage switchgear in South Africa, offers a full range of the world renowned motorised change-over and manually operated rotary cam switches.The Y-Series range from Gave, has been designed to perform remote changeover operations. ACDC Dynamics’ brand manager, Rudy Raath , says the range offers “extraordinary performance and superior switching technology providing for extended electrical endurance, safety isolation and high make/break capacity”.
generators in diesel, petrol, single-phase, three-phase, silent and open type. The gen-erators are available from 1kVA sine-wave digital invertor generating sets through to 80kVA, three-phase diesel water-cooled units. “We also supply large gensets accord-ing to customer specifications as well as a full range of ATS and motorised switchgear for auto change-over from utility power to standby gensets.”
ACDC’s technical specialists are available to assist clients with selecting the most appropriate solution for their installations. More information on the Gave motorised change-over switches and genset offerings can be found on the ACDC website: www.acdc.co.za
Enquiries: (010) 202-3300
Motorised change-over switches and gensets Switching characteristics• Load break switch at 90 degrees.• Silver alloy contacts.• Easy accessibility to terminals.• Protected cable clamps with IP20 protection.• Body cells on self-extinguishing GRP.Installation of the Y-Series is simple due to the built-in common-load link. Driving and control characteristics• Mechanical operation driven by an internal
geared electric motor.
• Electronically controlled motor operation with magnetic recognition.
• High capacity microprocessor.• Number of operations completed are available
at a push of a button on the five-digit displayThe Y-Series is a safe option that guarantees posi-tive switching and complies with IEC 60947-3 and IEC 61000 standards.
The Y-Series includes the following elements:• One input signal required for mechanical
changeover switch position;
• Digital position display;• Power supplies 12 and 24V dc and 80 to 220V ac;• Compact and rear panel fixing;• Endurance > 10 000 on load electrical opera-
tions and 50 000 on mechanical operations;• Manual and automatic override; • One motor drive steel shaft ensures mechani-
cally positive switching; and• Auxiliary contact for remote confirmation.Raath says that ACDC Dynamics stocks a full range of industrial, commercial and domestic
energy measurement and supply
TRADITIONAL surge protection devices provide limited protection because, after their absorption capacity is used up, they may allow spikes and surges to pass straight through to the devices they should be protecting.
So says Jonathan Palmer, managing director of power protection distributor PowerMan.
Palmer explains that surge protectors act like sponges. They absorb excess energy (surges and spikes) until they are full and, much as a water-logged sponge is unable to absorb more water, these devices can no longer absorb excess energy. From that point onwards, they may simply allow surges and spikes to pass through them.
PowerMan has addressed this shortcoming with the development of a component called an Automatic Isolation Mechanism (AIM). As soon as the device, patent pending, is no longer able to absorb energy, the AIM technology automatically disconnects the device and isolates your equip-ment, keeping it safe.
PowerMan has applied AIM to arrestors for 220V power, telephone lines, data lines, CCTV network cables, power over Ethernet cables, and computer network cables.
With AIM in place, when the surge arrestor no longer provides protection, the protected device stops working. This avoids the problem of users continuing to use arrestors while not realising that they have lost their protective capacities.
A variation of the AIM technology provides for automatic isolation in the event the surge arrestor overheats. This could happen if a sudden series of surges causes the device to heat up.
Enquiries: (011) 794-3886
‘Used up’ arrestors leave devices unprotected
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
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Eenergy measurement and supply 23
THE Eskom research team launched the Eskom Power Series in response to one of the most significant concerns facing utilities around the world – the continuing loss of critical technical skills and experience.
According to Sanjeev Bisnath, senior advisor (power products): research testing and development from Eskom’s Sustainability Group, each year a growing number of technical experts leave the power utility industry, taking with them their knowledge, experi-ence and expertise acquired over many years.
The Eskom research team has identified that the future of power engineering lies in the wisdom and experience of the engineers, technologists and technicians of today. “We have therefore worked to create a sequence of volumes called the Eskom Power Series,”
Essential reading for the power industry
says Bisnath.Each volume of the Eskom Power Series
has been written by teams of specialists and consultants who have been working in the power utility environment for many years. Eskom has developed a strong research and development programme focused specifically on real and potential power utility issues. This research programme ensures that the series is updated with the most current information and expertise available.
The aim of the series is to collate Eskom’s ex-perience, so as to serve as a guide and legacy. The Eskom Power Series serves as a source of reliable, reputable and highly technical infor-mation and practices.
“We anticipate that it will grow according to the needs of the industry, both locally and internationally,” Bisnath predicts.
Currently, the following 11 volumes (12 books) have been published and are available for purchase:• Volume 1: The Planning, Design and Construc-
tion of Overhead Power Lines.• Volume 2: Fundamentals and Practice of Over-
head Line Maintenance.• Volume 3: The Practical Guide to Outdoor High
Voltage Insulators.• Volume 4: Inductive Instrument Transformers
and Protective Applications.• Volume 5: Theory, Design, Maintenance and
Life Management of Power Transformers.• Volume 6 (Part 1): High Voltage Overhead
Power Lines: Theoretical Calculations and For-mulae for Conductor Installations000.
• Volume 6 (Part 2): High Voltage Over-
Denver Technical Products now offers the AT series high current ac transducers with a large 76mm diameter window. The AT series combines a current transducer and signal conditioner into a single unit. Each model within the series has three switch selectable current ranges. Full scale current ranges from 100A to 2 000A are provided. Industry standard output options, i.e. 0 - 5V, 0 - 10V or 4 - 20mA are available. These transducers can be provided with average responding or true RMS processors, making them suitable for accurate measurement on distorted waveforms, like those associated with variable frequency drives and SCR outputs.
Enquiries: (011) 626-2023
Ac current transducer with large window
head Power Lines: Theoretical Calculations and Formulae for Transmission Line Towers.
• Volume 7: Corona in Transmission Systems: Theory, Design and Performance.
• Volume 8: Power Quality in Electrical Power Systems: A Holistic Approach.
• Volume 9: HVDC Power Transmission (Part 1): Basic Principles, Planning and Converter Technology.
• Volume 10: Thermodynamics for Students and Practising Engineers.
• Volume 11: Thermal Science for Engineers.To learn more about Eskom Power Series books contact SanjeevBisnath at [email protected]
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
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E24 energy measurement and supply
Denver Technical Products offer an ever-expanding range of isolated ac/dc current sensing devices. The range includes conventional current transformers, Rogowski type probes, Hall type current sensors for dc current measurement as well as ac/dc current operated switches. All of the industry standard process control outputs, can be provided: 0-20mA, 4-20mA, 0-10V, 0-5A, etc. For distorted ac waveforms True RMS types are offered as well as solutions to measure mA to kA, ac or dc.
Enquiries: (011) 626-2023
Isolated current sensors
INTERBUILD Africa 2014 will be supported by some of the leading industry associations in South Africa when it opens its doors in August this year. “Inter-build Africa 2014 has solidified partnerships with a number of respected industry bodies, including the National Homebuilders Registration Council the South African Bureau of Standards, South African Institute of Architects and the Association of Quan-tity Surveyors,” says Gary Corin, managing director of Specialised Exhibitions Montgomery.
Interbuild Africa 2014 will include a number of industry relevant conferences, offering delegates the opportunity to hear insights from top industry professionals while gaining Continuous Professional Development (CPD) Points. These conferences are being hosted by: South African Light Steel Frame Building Association (SASFA), Association of Quantity Surveyors South Africa (ASAQS), South African Glass Institute (SAGI), South African Glass and Glazing Association (SAGGA), as well as Association of Architectural Aluminium Manufacturers of South Africa (AAAMSA). For the first time in its history, the Master Builders Association of South Africa will also be hosting its annual board meeting at Interbuild Africa this year.
Interbuild Africa together with its co-located events – Glass Expo Africa, Plumbdrain Africa, EcoAf-ribuild and Hardex Africa – constitute the biggest building and construction expo in Africa. This year’s event is taking place from 20 to 23 August at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec.
The free-to-attend seminar programme will include: an overview the new BEE codes, current economic trends, updates to occupational health and safety regulations, and the latest developments in green building, and how to improve the energy efficiency.
Corin goes on to say that Interbuild Africa 2014 has also partnered with leading brands such as Builders Warehouse to deliver a host of exciting competitions at the event.
“Some of our industry body partners have also committed to launching a number of student award initiatives, all aimed at encouraging new innova-tion from the young blood in the industry,” he adds. “We’ve already noted a significant increase in stand sales for Interbuild Africa 2014,” says Corin. “It’s clear that our exhibitors are feeling positive about market conditions and have identified Interbuild Africa as the ideal platform from which to launch their new innovations to market,” says Corin
Interbuild Africa 2014 will take place from 20-23 August 2014 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec. For further information or to book your stand, visit www.interbuild.co.za
Enquiries: (011) 835-1565
Expo for the building industry CRABTREE, a Powertech company
within the JSE-listed Altron Group, has introduced Topaz, a new range of PVC switches and sockets designed and engineered in South Africa.
James Calmeyer, CEO of Crabtree says, “The Topaz range provides a modern, eye-catching finish. We are convinced that with this new range we offer the end-users a perfect solu-tion for the electrical installation in any modern home that can compete with any overseas product.”
The new aesthetically pleasing
Crabtree introduces new switch and socket rangerange provides a flat wall installation and consists of one- to four-lever two-way switches, a single, double, com-bination and a Slimline quad socket outlet. A 30A double pole isolator switch complements the range. The combination socket has two of the new 164-2 16A sockets and the Quad socket has four of the new 164-2, 16A sockets. This makes the Topaz range ready for the market as the new pre-ferred socket for South Africa.
Featuring a modern design, the switches and sockets are easy to
install and have steel keyhole inserts providing strength to the product’s rigidity and ease of installation. The switches boast a common incom-ing terminal connection serving all multi-gang switches, allowing the installer to save time with each instal-lation. This mono block design is a revolutionary first of its kind design for South Africa.
The Topaz range remains true to the quality, safety and the reliability features that are synonymous with Crabtree products and even boasts
the same ‘Crabtree click’ when switch-ing.
The plastic cover plate has a flat, square-edged design, and protrudes less than 5mm from the wall. The switch rocker remains flat to the surface of the cover plate and does not protrude above, which prevents accidental on or off switching.
Overall, this is an exciting new product range that revolutionises the sockets and switches market in South Africa.
Enquiries: (011) 874-7600 or 0860 SOCKET
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
Llighting 25
MOST modern homes, boardrooms and offices nowadays consider it a necessity to be able to dim lights and even groups of lights within the same room. This is mainly for the aesthetic value that dimming adds to the living or working environ-ment. Justifiably, during earlier times when the National Grid was not under pressure, electricity prices were of less concern and conventional lamps were cheap to replace, it was not necessary to consider the possible added benefits that the dimming of lamps can provide.
This has now all changed. Our grid is constantly under pressure, electricity prices are sky rocket-ing and even conventional lamps are becoming expensive. Fortunately, the LED revolution came to the rescue and due to its very low energy con-sumption, provides some relief from high electric-ity costs. However since dimmable LED lamps are slightly more expensive than their non-dimmable counterpart, buyers now have to decide whether they actually want to dim the lights or not. How-ever, if the ‘non visual’ benefits of dimming LED lamps are considered, especially the additional energy savings possibilities and the increased lamp lifetime, it might be much an easier decision whether or not to dim.
Figure 1 shows the measured energy consump-tion versus measured light level of a conventional
The real benefit of dimming LEDs By Dr Marthinus Smit, Shuttle Lighting
Llighting 25
50W GU10 halogen lamp, a typical 10W GU10 LED lamp and a typical 10W MR16 LED lamp with an electronic transformer. It can be seen that, besides the obviously much higher energy consumption of the halogen lamp and much lower initial light output, its consumption curve when dimming is very non-linear. The LED lamps, on the other hand, not only show a much higher initial (non-dimmed) light output, but also exhibit a virtually linear consumption curve as the lamp are dimmed. In order to better appreciate the implication of these characteristics, Figure 2 shows the energy savings as a percentage of the initial (non-dimmed) energy consumption versus the percentage of measured light output. It can be seen that if the lamps are dimmed to 50% lux output, the halogen lamp saves only 26% energy, very little considering that it consumes close to 50W when not dimmed. This is due to the fact that the majority of the energy is used to ignite the gas and produce heat – the visible light out-put is only a small percentage of total consump-tion. LEDs are, however, an electronic component that has inherent non-linear energy consumption versus light output, which is the opposite to that of a halogen or incandescent lamp. With LED light sources, the energy savings are remarkable when dimming, as can be seen from Figure 2.
When dimmed to 50% light output, the 10W GU10 LED saves a staggering 62% energy, effec-tively consuming only 3.8W. Due to the losses as-sociated with the electronic transformer, the 10W MR16 LED performs less efficiently but still saves a very respectable 48% energy when dimmed to 50%, effectively then only consuming 5.2W. Results will differ from brand to brand and even possibly be-tween different models within a brand, but the general tendency will be the same or very similar for all LED lamps.
Interestingly, due to the high lumen output of the LED lamps, the MR16 measures around 400 lux (1m from source) and the GU10 approximately 450 lux compared to the a very low 150 lux of the halogen lamp when dimmed to 50%.
When an LED is dimmed, the current through the module re-duces and the junction tempera-ture correspondingly reduces (typically non-linear).
This has a profound effect on the lumen maintenance of the
LED as can be seen from Figure 3, which shows a graph of the expected LED module lifetime versus its internal temperature. Additionally, the driver built into the LED lamp also suffers degradation due to increased temperature but dimming the lamp reduces the overall temperature. A measure-ment of a typical 10W GU10 LED showed that the aluminium housing temperature reduced from about 40°C above ambient when at full intensity to about 5°C above ambient when dimmed to its lowest intensity – this much reduced temperature has an obviously beneficial implication on the lifetime of the lamp’s driver.
Thus, the energy savings are real when you dim LEDs – the more you dim, the more you save. The more you dim, the cooler the lamp operates resulting in reduced lumen depreciation as well as a longer lifetime of the LEDs driver.
However, always ensure that the correct dim-mer type is used for dimming a particular LED. If a dimmer is not matched or approved for a specific LED it can result in reduced product lifetime.
Enquiries: 082 465 2299
TWO Eastern Cape TB hospitals – the Jose Pearson in Port Elizabeth and Marjorie Parrish in Port Alfred – have been upgraded and are now illuminated with the latest highly efficient LED lighting solu-tions from BEKA Schréder, Eastern Cape.
BEKA’s Byron Teengs says, “Our client was requested to upgrade the security lighting of both projects, which also included general area lighting. The Department of Health required an energy-efficient product and a maintenance-free installation.”
Teengs explains that the client designed all the lighting layouts using the BEKA LEDflood-midi 88W and BEKA Schréder’s glass-fibre reinforced polyester poles. “The selected products conform to requirements for marine grade aluminium luminaires with an LED light source and corrosion-resistant glass-fibre reinforced polyester poles,” explains Teengs.
“A total of 176 BEKA LEDflood luminaires and 89 BEKA GRP poles were supplied to both projects,” he says, adding, “BEKA Schréder is proud of its association with this project and its partnership with Ballenden & Robb Consulting.”
Enquiries: (041) 373-3886
TB hospitals lit with LED floodlights
TRIDONIC has modified its multi-functional DALI TOUCHPANEL 02 unit and added new functions and interchangeable layouts. DALI lighting control is now more convenient and more flexible than ever before. The mechanics have also been improved and a guide LED has been integrated.
DALI TOUCHPANEL 02 combines the
A quantum leap in qualityfunctions of group controller DALI GC
with those of scene controller DALI SC in a single module. It is therefore pos-sible to send dimming and switching commands to two DALI groups and to program and retrieve up to four light-ing scenes.
The panel has six freely definable but-tons to which interchangeable layout cards can be individually assigned. The
individual buttons can be configured separately using masterCONFIGURATOR soft-ware (V2.6 or higher). The options include on/off switching and up/down fading of individual addresses, groups or broadcast. In addition, predefined lighting scenes can be retrieved. The software also enables the touch panel to be configured for tunable white applications.
This means that freely controllable and dim-mable white light can be produced along the entire Planckian curve from 2 700 to 6 500K. This control option can also be applied to individual addresses, groups or broadcast.
DALI TOUCHPANEL 02 does not need a sepa-rate power supply as power is supplied via the DALI line. You can connect the touch panel to the DALI circuit without have to worry about the polarity. The control module is multi- master-compatible so multiple control mod-ules can be connected in parallel in a DALI circuit. Typical applications include multi-functional rooms such as meeting rooms with different lighting zones.
The manufacturer offers a five-year system guarantee for peace of mind.
Enquiries: (011) 923-9686
BEKA LEDflood-midi luminaires provide the security and area lighting at Jose Pearson TB Hospital.
Figure 3: LED module lifetime versus temperature.Figure 1: Measured light output versus energy consumption of halogen and LED lamps.
Figure 2: Measured energy savings versus light output of halogen and LED lamps.
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
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L lighting26L lighting26
The IESSA council for the next two years: Some of IESSA’s new council members at the AGM held in Johannes-burg on 15 May: Phil Hammond (Cape Town committee chairperson); Kurt Isele (council committee membership chairperson); Greg Marcia (outgoing president); Trevor Milne (outgoing past president); Rob Henderson (outgoing vice president, incoming president); Clive Beeton (council committee PR chairperson); Don Bedggood (council incom-ing chairperson); and Greg Segal (Cape Town member and presenter of ‘100 years of lighting’).
Enquiries: (011) 476-4171
The Johannes-burg branch of
IESSA held its AGM on May
15, when Greg Marcia, outgo-
ing president handed over
the IESSA ‘chain of office’ to Rob
Henderson, incoming presi-
dent of IESSA for the next two
years.
AT the recent Light+Building trade fair held in Frankfurt, Germany, Philips revealed the world’s first 3D-printed connected lumi-naires, a design addition to the expanding Philips Hue range. Fusing the worlds of light, art and technology, the luminaires allow limitless light effects, bringing art to people’s living rooms. The Philips Hue 3D-printed table and pendant luminaires were co-created with globally-renowned design teams WertelOberfell and Strand+Hvass.
A simple finger swipe on a smartphone or tablet lets users create infinite personal light effects from a palette of over 16 mil-lion colours, shades of white and program-mable light scenes. Philips Hue 3D-printed luminaires can be turned into striking features by, for example, illuminating the luminaires to tune in with the setting sun, through connection to automated internet services.
“3D printing provides more freedom, control and even personalisation when designing lighting products. There are fewer boundaries for creativity with Philips Hue as there are unlimited op-tions to generate any mood or lighting effect. Combined, we have created the most advanced, digital (even futuristic) technologies for a functional, emotional and unique object,” says WertelOberfell designer Jan Wertel.LED lamp advancesAt Light+Building 2014, Verbatim presented a number of LED lamp advances from Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation.
First of these was a dichroic-effect MR16 LED lamp; a cost-effective, energy-efficient replacement for the dichroic halogen lamp.The new 4W lamp with GU5.3 base delivers good optical control and a 30° beam angle.
In the Classic A lamp, the company show-cased Mirageball optical technology using a lens created via a two-colour moulding process developed by MCC.
This special optic lens delivers uniform, omni-directional light distribution, making the lamp ideal for wall sconces where an even wide-angled light is necessary.
Verbatim also released additional versions of its VxRGB Classic B candle lamps. These resemble the colour of real candle flames. A Flicker Flame Candle 1 900°K LED that simulates the fluctuations of a burning candle and a Tunable Flame Candle, which dims from 2 400°K to 1 900°K, were particular highlights.
Light, art and hue on show
New IESSA council members elected
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
Llighting 27
OSRAM is going into the new lighting season with an expanded and completely revised LED lamp portfolio; and Osram South Africa has opened its new lighting showroom at its Midrand office, demonstrating the latest technology and a range of solutions that cover all the different areas of lighting applications. Light management systems from Osram – light in a new dimensionLight management is much more than the use of motion sensors – it is the optimal connection of user interfaces, control units, daylight and motion sensors and electronic control gears. Rising energy costs have necessitated a highly efficient lighting solution and application-oriented control systems, and Osram’s tailor made, innovative light manage-ment systems with intelligent sensors save energy.LED luminaires: energy-efficient, stylish lighting solutionsWith its innovative LED interior luminaires, Osram offers completely new opportunities for creative, energy-efficient lighting in shops, public buildings, hotels and restaurants, as well as in industrial applications. Osram LED luminaires for outdoors also embody the latest technology and guarantee not only excellent manufacturing standards but also exceptional lighting quality, for example, in illumination of facades or outdoor areas. The advantages of Osram LED luminaires are:• Extremely small designs are now possible;• Long operating life;• Robustness;• Faster paybacks; • Very low energy consumption with high lu-
minous efficacy; and• Extremely low maintenance costs. Osram’s Parathom AdvancedOsram’s Parathom Advanced LED lamps are available in many different versions, including screw-base and plug-in base types; lamps for line voltage and low voltage; reflector lamps and classic light bulb shapes. Thanks to the lamps’ excellent photometric and performance values, this range is ideal for commercial and high-quality domestic lighting.The advantages of Osram Parathom Advanced luminaires are:• Dimmable;• Long life;• High resistance to switching transients;• Good colour rendering; and• Up to 80% energy saving.Osram’s Halogen Eco lamps, the new incandescent lampOsram’s Eco halogen lamps meet every require-ment in the high voltage and low voltage ranges, delivering top light quality and a longer service life than standard halogen lamps.
New brand, new range, new showroom The advantages of Halogen Eco technology are:
• Constant light strength and colour throughout its en-tire service life.
• Natural colour reproduction (Ra = 100);• 100% dimming capacity;• Simple replacement of conventional halogen lamps;• Environmentally friendly due to the long service life; • Reduced heat creation; and• Up to 30% energy saving.To make an appointment to visit Osram’s new showroom in Midrand, contact the sales team.
Enquiries: (011) 207-5600
Osram's new lighting showroom at its Midrand office boasts all the latest lighting technology.
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
june 2014
P28
Send your People on the Move
photographs (at least 300 dpi) and
captions to sparks@crown.
co.za. Shirley Enoch,
customer relationship manager,
KwaZulu-Natal
Surgetek
people on the move
This publication is distributed to electrical contractors, wholesalers, distributors, OEMs, panel builders, Eskom, mining electricians and consulting engineers (electrical) as well as libraries, members of IESSA and public utilities.
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Editor:Erika van ZylConsultant:Ian Jandrell PrEng, BSc(Eng), GDE, PhD, FSAIEE, MIEEEProduction & layout:Colin MazibukoAdvertising:Carin HannayPublisher:Jenny WarwickPublished monthly by:Crown Publications ccP O Box 140Bedfordview, 2008Tel: (011) 622-4770Fax: (011) 615-6108e-mail: [email protected]: www.crown.coza
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The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor or the publisher.
Bright Sparks
May solution
JULY FEATURES
Crossing the moatYOU have discovered an old derelict house, with a moat round it, which is still full of wa-ter and about 5m across. Naturally, you want to get to the house, but even if you could take a run up and jump across the moat from this side, you would not be able jump back.
However, you find two planks which, when they are lowered across the moat, very nearly reach to the opposite bank. You would like to tie the planks together but you have nothing with which to tie them securely. How can you reach the derelict house by using the planks, and without getting your feet wet or being in danger of falling into the water?
Scared crowsTHERE were 20 crows to start with. Each time farmer Giles shot at them (ten) flew away, but the same number soon returned.
Seggie Naidoo, sales engineer.
Magnet
Sydney Heath, sales engineer, Richards Bay.
Fiona Knickelbein, office manager,
Richards Bay.
Regular topics such as cables, cable ac-cessories, cable management systems, cable sizing, skirting, trunking, con-duit, cable trays, cable marking and labelling, cable jointing techniques, wire sizing, fault finding, hazardous areas, flameproof, cable terminations, glands, cable installations and trench-ing will be included.
CABLES AND CABLE ACCESSORIES
Stand-alone generator sets, batteries, uninterruptible power supplies, main-tenance powerline filtering and testing, emergency wiring and lighting, sup-plies for computer rooms, hospital sup-plies, process equipment
STANDBY AND EMERGENCY POWER
5m