ECN June 2018

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VOLUME 38 NO. 06 • JUNE 2018

37 SPECIAL FEATURE: ENERGY MANAGEMENT

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GROUNDBREAKING PLUG-IN SWITCHES FROM FLEX7 flex7 has released a new range of plug-in switches which dramatically reduce installation time by simplifying the process to an easy plug-in connection. Here, the company explores the evolution of the light switch, and how the flex7 system is the next step in the journey.

In 1879, Thomas Edison perfected the electric light bulb, heralding the start of a transformation that would see instantaneous light eventually become the norm for most of us on planet Earth. Today we take it for granted that if we want light we simply flick a switch and hey presto, problem solved.

Edison’s breakthrough was a game changer, but a light source without any control is as much a problem as it is a solution. It’s all well and good bestowing the gift of instant light on a grateful world, but what about the times when darkness is desirable; when trying to sleep for example?

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CONTENTS VOLUME 38 NO. 06 • JUNE 2018

CONTENTS… Regulars 4 Editorial Change for the better.

7 Industry News Challenge for a Cause, Hackitt Review and an 18th Edition cinema event.

14 Contract News Rapid EV charging, a smart university and illuminated office space.

Special features: Energy Management Alex Mardapittas, CEO of Powerstar, discusses how energy 37 Dr. storage can be used to boost supply security and save money.

Frear at CP Electronics explains how contractors can 40 Martyn effectively marry energy management and modular building.

24 Competition Win a 4MP super HD CCTV kit, courtesy of ESP.

Shafi at LED Eco Lights explains how wireless 43 Saima lighting control systems can remove the disruption, cost and maintenance of hard-wired installation.

26 Project Focus Prefect Controls explains how its Irus Building Energy Management system has helped Bath Spa University maintain its green credentials.

56 Company Showcase The latest sponsored stories from the sector.

20 Training New courses from the Fire Industry Association.

22 Key Issue

Commercial Vehicles & EV Infrastructure

ECA’s Paul Reeve considers the urgent changes that need to be made in the construction industry in the wake of the Carillion collapse.

Features 30 Residual current regulations Doekpe takes a look at what impact the 18th Edition update will have on residual current devices, and how to specify the right product.

32 Tackling the C Word Vicki Leslie of ECIS outlines a case that highlights the importance of offering specialist health support to employees.

34 Integrated inspiration Seth Townsley, marketing manager at Schneider Electric, explains how integrated electrical panels can deliver strong return on investment. journalist Jordan O’Brien explores the biggest 46 Technology development in EV charging since the debut of the Tesla Supercharger network.

Jeannes, vice president of operations for 50 Pierre Mr. Electric, explains the need to upscale the UK electric charging infrastructure. at the CV Show in Birmingham flocked to see the UK 53 Crowds debut of the all-electric Volkswagen eCrafter van. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles explains why this is such a big deal.

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EDITORIAL

CHANGE FOR THE BETTER The year is nearly halfway through, and we’re already finding ourselves on the precipice of the 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations (BS 7671), which will come into effect on July 1, 2018. We’ll be looking indepth at the impact the changes will have across the industry in the coming months; it’s one of several pressing issues currently happening within the sector that demands our attention.

June’s ECN hears from director of business at ECA, Paul Reeve, who turns our focus to the issues of retention practices and unpaid bills. The topic has been burning in the background since before the Carillion collapse in January, with May seeing the select committee post-Carillion report, and the ‘Aldous Bill’ heading towards its second reading in June. With so many firms struggling with the repercussions of Carillion collapse, swift and drastic change is needed.

Will the bill – which aims to protect monies from insolvency by putting them in a trust – be the answer to the sector’s problems with fair payment practices?

May has also seen the release of the Hackitt Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety. Originally commissioned on July 28, 2017 as part of the ongoing response to the tragic Grenfell Tower fire, the review impresses the need for not only accreditation and competence, but also a change in culture – so that the sector continues to work together to not only recognise competence but assesses it at regular intervals to ensure standards are maintained.

With so many important adjustments to both culture and regulations upon us, it’s more important than ever to hear from those of you at the coalface who are having to work with these changes dayto-day. Send me an email at Kayleigh@ allthingsmedialtd.com to let me know how you’re being affected, as well as what’s still needed to make things better.

Published monthly by All Things Media Ltd., Suite 14, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Kent ME5 8UD. Tel: 01634 673163 Fax: 01634 673173

Kayleigh Hutchins, Editor

EDITOR: KAYLEIGH HUTCHINS E: kayleigh@allthingsmedialtd.com

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The editor and publishers do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors nor do they accept responsibility for any errors in the transmission of the subject matter in this publication.

In all matters the editor’s decision is final. Editorial contributions to ECN are welcomed, and the editor reserves the right to alter or abridge text prior to the publication.

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06/03/2018 16:48

INDUSTRY NEWS ‘CHALLENGE FOR A CAUSE’ TEAM BREAKS THE ICE The Electrical Industries Charity has announced that their team of 18 trekkers are back from their biggest challenge of the year, the Challenge for a Cause – Arctic Adventure 2018.

In March, a team of 18 industry trekkers joined Tessa Ogle, managing director of the Electrical Industries Charity, and embarked on the three-day journey through the Arctic Circle of Kuusamo, Finland. They included Caz Dickinson’s daughters Jodie Dickinson, Rachel Wright and Rebecca Dickinson, together with Andrew Reakes, Geoff Kerly, Darren Wetherill, Dave Gilbert, Paul Reeve, Cathy Plummer, Alan Plummer, Michael Burnard, Charlie Harwood, Paul Rhodes, and Keith Sampson. Team Stearn Electric, which included Mark Booth, Kate Menzies, Scott Champion and Sean Miller, also joined the challenge.

Caz’s husband Mick said, “If I was to thank each and every one of you every day between now and my last breath, it still wouldn’t come close to appreciating what

you have all sacrificed for the Dickinson family. You have all given one week of your life, to improve ours for the rest of our lives.

This incredible selfless act will change Caz’s life forever. I personally will never forget what you have done for us.”

Throughout the three days in the Arctic, the Challenge for a Cause team faced sub-zero temperatures and experienced various challenges including building their own igloos to sleep in, six hours’ snowshoeing, cross-countryskiing, husky sledding and the ice dip challenge in -9˚C temperatures.

Darren Wetherill, managing director of DW Electrical said, “The whole trip was well organised from start to finish, challenging and at times very emotional as we were really in touch with the reason we were doing the challenge and the reason we were raising money. I didn’t know what to expect when signing up for the trip all those months ago, but I couldn’t have wished for a better experience.”

VW COMMERCIAL VEHICLES DELIVERS 46,300 VEHICLES WORLDWIDE IN APRIL Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles delivered 46,300 vehicles to customers around the world in the month of April (+16.0%). The markets in Western and Eastern Europe, as well as South America, Africa and the Asia-Pacific region all contributed significant increases.

Overall, deliveries in the period from January to April of 161,000 vehicles already reached the level of the same period of the previous year (161,700; -0.4%).

In Western Europe, 33,600 vehicles were delivered in April (+22.2%). The German home market accounted for 14,900 vehicles out of this figure (+46.3%). In Italy 1,700 vehicles were handed over to customers (+44.4%), in the United Kingdom the figure was 3,600 vehicles (+10.0%) and in France 1,800 vehicles (+5.9%).

In Eastern Europe, the brand delivered 3,600 vehicles to customers in April (+12.8%).

In South America (+24.3% to 3,600 vehicles), in the Asia-Pacific region (+8.7% to 1,900 vehicles) and in Africa (+6.5% to 1,100 vehicles) deliveries of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles also increased.

The team undertook the Challenge for a Cause to the Arctic to raise money for the Dickinson family which will help Caz with her development and care and will create a better future for the whole family. So far,

the team has raised £125,716 and is halfway towards the initial target of £250,000.

To find out how you can get involved, visit electricalcharity.org/index.php/fundraising/ challenge-for-a-cause.

MOST SMALL CONSTRUCTION FIRMS AFFECTED

BY LATE PAYMENT, RESEARCH SAYS New research commissioned by The Prompt Payment Directory (PPD) has revealed the extent to which smaller construction firms are on the brink of bankruptcy or liquidation, with rising numbers of construction business owners suffering depression, anxiety, stress and ‘extreme anger’.

PDD revealed that the number of small construction firms struggling financially has risen dramatically since last year, as too has the number of company owners suffering from mental health issues as a result of poor cashflow.

The findings come amidst fears over the knock-on effect to the supply chain following the Carillion collapse earlier this year.

According to the findings, 74% of the construction companies polled – 30% more than last year – have been on the brink of bankruptcy or liquidation, or could be soon due to late payments. Additionally, 48% – nearly a quarter more than last year – blamed poor cashflow for their panic attacks, anxiety and depression, with some even having suicidal feelings and almost a quarter (22%) experiencing emotions of ‘severe anger’.

62% of owners said late payment issues had also meant that they had not paid themselves for some time,

35% had stopped or delayed bonuses, 15% had had to pay staff late, and 17% had reduced their own salary.

If customers continue to pay late, 30% of construction company owners said it will soon affect the progress and growth of their business, while 30% said it had already impacted staff morale, recruitment and retention. Another 38% struggled to pay business rates and a quarter had struggled to pay mortgage or rental payments on their office.

PPD’s findings come after the government’s Prompt Payment Code (PPC) and last April’s enforcement of the government’s new ‘Duty to Report’ scheme that requires large companies to report on payment practices twice a year. It also follows official figures confirming that the number of British businesses going bankrupt reached a four-year high for 2017, with one in every 213 companies falling into liquidation – the highest since 2013.

The survey polled 400 owners, MDs and CEOs of small construction businesses who suffer from poor cashflow due to late or outstanding invoice payments.

The research examined the personal, financial and business impact of late payments on owners and found the issue had worsened since PPD’s first study was launched last spring.

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23/05/2018 11:39

INDUSTRY NEWS DSA ELECTRICAL AWARDED ISO CERTIFICATION DSA Electrical has announced the company’s award of ISO Certification ISO 9001:2015 (Quality) and ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental), by ACM, a UKAS accredited certification body.

The ISO 9001 standard focuses on quality management systems and performance. It assists companies in developing a management system that aligns quality with their wider business strategy. There is a focus on riskbased thinking and accountability in all organisational processes that helps improve communications, efficiency, and implementation of continuous improvement.

ISO 14001 recognises companies that have adopted environmentally responsible practices in their business processes.

Ahead of the four-day review, DSA Electrical sent four of its staff members on internal auditor training to ensure the organisation was thoroughly internally audited prior to the ISO audit and to enable the company to continue a programme of ongoing self-assessment.

Established in 1992, DSA Electrical is a family run business providing a range of electrical contracting services and consultancy to predominantly public sector organisations across Essex and the South East.

DSA Electrical’s managing director, Rachel Richards commented, “After months of preparation and hard work, we are absolutely delighted to be awarded ISO certification. DSA Electrical’s core company values are innovation, excellence and integrity and ISO certification is recognition by an international organisation of how we embody these values in everything we do.” She added, “In addition to our Constructionline Gold and CHAS membership, ISO certification demonstrates our commitment to efficiency, excellence and environmental integrity. Our SHEQ management and team of highly skilled NICEIC approved technicians mean we are able to deliver our contracts on time and on budget to our public sector clients.”

90% DECREASE IN INDUSTRY ACCIDENTS SINCE 2001, SAYS JIB SURVEY The latest JIB Survey of Accidents at Work has shown that the 2017 accident incidence rate (AIR) for RIDDOR-reportable accidents is less than 10% of what it was in 2001.

This impressive statistic highlights the continuing commitment from electrical contractors to reduce accidents in the workplace, following the JIB, ECA and Unite the Union’s major industry-wide ‘ZAP’ safety initiative which launched 17 years ago.

JIB and ECA members contributed to the survey, which covered a sample size of almost 12,000 operatives.

Of the 17 reportable injuries, there were no fatalities and none of the injuries were due to contact with electricity. However, 11 were the result of falls or trips at height or at ground level.

According to Paul Reeve, ECA’s director responsible for health and safety, “These excellent safety statistics are the lowest ever recorded in our industry. Even so, it’s clear that accidents linked to work at height and housekeeping remain the main site safety issues.

“ECA, working with industry partners and Unite, is currently chairing a working group (part of HSE’s recently-constituted ‘Managing Risk Well’ group) that aims to reinvigorate concise, good practice advice on work at height. We aim to produce practical outputs that will help designers, clients, managers, supervisors and operatives to tackle the causes of this persistent category of site accident.”

NICEIC AND ELECSA TO STAGE 18TH EDITION CINEMA EVENT NICEIC and ELECSA are set to transmit a live talk on the 18th Edition, which will be beamed via satellite to 40 cinema screens simultaneously.

The 18th Edition seminar will be broadcast from the Faraday Theatre, in The Royal Institution. Hosted by industry experts Darren Staniforth and Alan Wells, the talk will focus on the changes included in the new regulations and what it will mean for electricians in their day-to-day work.

“When the 17th Edition was launched in 2008, a lot of industry myths emerged because multiple messages were communicated by different speakers. The advantage of broadcasting to all four corners of the UK on a single day is that we can communicate a single,

consistent message to the industry,” commented Darren.

There will be audience contributions from some leading names in the industry, including representatives from JPEL 64 and its sub-committees, who are responsible for writing the new regulations.

NICEIC and ELECSA have partnered with Vue, Odeon,

Showcase and Omniplex Cinemas to put on the 18th Edition event. The seminar will be broadcast live to over 40 screens across the UK with a full list of all participating cinemas available online.

The live seminar and cinema event will take place from 9am on Wednesday, 4 July. Tickets to the cinema screenings are now on sale at shop.niceic.com/18edition/cinema

ECA & FSA RESPOND TO THE HACKITT REVIEW FINAL REPORT Following the publication of the independent Hackitt Review into Building Regulations and Fire Safety today (17 May), ECA and the FSA have responded to the main recommendations.

ECA director of technical, and head of FSA, Steve Martin commented, “ECA and FSA are pleased that the independent Hackitt Review broadly agreed with many of the recommendations we made during the consultation. We will continue to work closely with government and industry to achieve the broad aims of the Review, and to deliver a holistic approach to fire safety training and regulation.”

Andrew Eldred, director of employment and skills for ECA, added, “It is important that the competence of those undertaking electrical installation is assured and verified. I am pleased to see ECS cards recognised as an industry exemplar in the report, and welcome the establishment of an industry-led JCA to strengthen the established competency framework.”

The report comes almost one year after the Grenfell Tower fire that killed 71 people and injured a further 70. Some of the main recommendations and conclusions set out in the final report include: setting up a new regulatory framework for all high-rise buildings over 10 storeys; the establishment of a Joint Competent Authority (JCA) to oversee the management of safety risks; a series of robust fire safety gateway points for every high-rise project; more rigorous enforcement of powers, with more serious penalties for firms that do not comply; and addressing poor procurement practices.

The Hackitt Review held a consultation in October 2017, to which ECA and FSA responded.

ECA and the FSA proposed regulatory and other measures that would greatly reduce fire and electrical safety risks in ‘multiple occupancy accommodation’ which include, but are not restricted to, tall buildings.

8 | June 2018

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INDUSTRY NEWS NEW ESP DIVISION TO OPERATE IN IRELAND Click Litehouse, part of the Scolmore Group, has identified an opportunity to capitalise on the growing demand for the ESP range of security products across Ireland.

This has resulted in the setting up of a brand new operation – ESPi – which will bring ESP’s range of fire protection and security products to the whole of Ireland, via a dedicated team and through the various channels that serve the requirements of the industry across the country.

The new operation will allow ESPi to identify and target the security wholesale outlets responsible for supplying the various Private Security Authority (PSA) license-holding contractors that operate in southern Ireland and at the same time allows ESP to continue to supply their existing electrical wholesaler customers in Northern Ireland.

Headed up by Derek McKever as general manager, ESPi will operate as a stand-alone business that fully replicates the ESP business operation in the UK with access to the same products, marketing support, technical support and new product development.

The new ESPi business will operate from 3 Rock Road, Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford in Dublin in close proximity to Click Litehouse. The premises are currently being refurbished and are due for opening in June.

LANDLORDS IGNORING MEES LEGISLATION WILL SUFFER CONSEQUENCES, WARNS OPEN TECHNOLOGY Open Technology, a specialist in the design, manufacture and commission of intelligent lighting control systems, has issued a warning to building owners and facilities managers who fail to bring their properties in-line with the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES), which took effect from 1 April 2018. The MEES means all commercial leases will need to achieve a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of ‘E’ before they can be let to new occupiers or renew an existing tenancy.

Buildings account for around 40% of the EU’s total energy consumption and 43% of the UK’s carbon-dioxide emissions.

The government’s target is for the commercial property sector to be achieving a minimum EPC band of C by 2030. James Lane, commercial director at Open Technology, believes there are no excuses for ignoring the legislation. He says, “There has been enough time for building managers to bring their properties in-line and landlords who have consciously made an early effort to improve the efficiency of their property will now be gaining a distinct advantage over those that haven’t.”

The fine for those in breach of the standards for less than three months can be up to £5,000 or up to 10% of the rateable value of the property – whichever is greater.

Go beyond three months and this will rise to £10,000 or 20% of the rateable value of the property, up to a maximum of £150,000.

MOST ELECTROTECHNICAL BUSINESSES NOT PREPARED FOR GDPR, SAYS SURVEY New survey findings show that less than a third of electrotechnical and engineering services businesses (29%) have a stringent cyber security policy in place, according to research conducted by ECA. Despite the upcoming General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) being widely publicised, it appears that many organisations in the sector are not yet prepared to meet its requirements. The survey shows that 53% of companies still need help understanding the GDPR. In addition, 38% of businesses either do not comply, or don’t know if they comply, with the existing Data Protection Act (DPA). Compliance with GDPR is likely to be more difficult for these companies. 21% of respondents said they are not currently preparing for the GDPR, which comes into effect on 25 May 2018.

ECA director of business Paul Reeve commented, “Many companies may be shying away from engaging with GDPR because they believe it will be hard to comply. Our advice to is to review your current personal data systems and procedures as soon as possible, and take a practical view of what needs to be improved, and the priorities for action. In many cases, compliance with GDPR need not be difficult or expensive, but it does require serious attention.”

GDPR, a new European personal data protection law, will require all businesses to review their position in relation to the storage of personal data, and to improve their current Data Protection procedures.

WSBF & BBA CALL FOR INTEGRATED APPROACH TO DRIVING UK’S ENERGY EFFICIENCY The Westminster Sustainable Business Forum (WSBF) and the British Board of Agrément (BBA) have held a roundtable to discuss progress following publication of the Each Home Counts report, with their focus on building performance and the promotion of domestic and commercial energy efficiency.

While welcoming the ‘generally positive’ ambitions of the Bonfield Review, roundtable attendees were concerned that it lacked government backing and that other professions ‘closely linked’ with home improvements, for example plumbers and electricians, were highly regulated with ‘no holistic framework’ to link regulation for these sectors to new controls for energy efficiency installers’. This, the forum concluded, was likely to reduce the overall effectiveness of any regulations.

Chaired by Dr Alan Whitehead MP, Shadow Minister for Energy and Climate Change, and attended by BBA CEO, Claire Curtis -Thomas, the roundtable also recommended that: government should clarify plans and introduce incremental increases to standards over an extended period; public procurement should mandate performance-linked outcomes of energy efficiency improvement projects or introduce regulation to this effect; revisions to Part L of the Building Regulations should no longer be purely SAP-based; and government and industry should support the Building Performance Network to enable better decision-making on policy, regulation and funding, all with the aim of improving building performance.

The government’s Energy Company Obligation (ECO) also came under scrutiny, with attendees concerned that it did not encourage investment in research and development and required ‘quantitative and qualitative improvement’ if the UK was to significantly improve the energy efficiency of its building stock. The meeting proposed performance-linked clauses in contracts for energy efficiency retrofits/new build that require projects to demonstrate compliance with performance specifications, either through procurement processes or regulation.

MOVERS & SHAKERS… Rob Driscoll has joined ECA as deputy director in the business policy and practice department, which covers ECA’s legal and commercial representation and services. Rob is qualified as a solicitor and mediator with extensive construction and FM experience, obtained in private practice and trade associations.

Craig Herriott has joined Flexel International Ltd as its new Scottish area sales manager. Craig’s new position complements the role out of area sales managers, as Flexel sees growth in the UK market.

Hamilton Litestat has appointed John Hall as area sales manager for South Wales and the West. The new appointment follows further growth in the region for Hamilton, with John joining the team to support additional business development in the area.

J S Wright has boosted its contract management expertise after appointing Darren Timmins as quantity surveyor. Based at its Aston headquarters, Darren will provide commercial management support to all three of the company’s offices in Birmingham, Bristol and London.

Ellis has expanded its in-house product design team with the appointment of Tom Dunbar as design engineer. Tom joins a team headed by chief engineer, Stephen Walton, which is responsible for new product design, existing product development, product testing and the company’s bespoke solutions facility.

Nuaire long-standing employee, Rob Erwood, has been announced as the company’s new sales director.

10 | June 2018

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Ecopac (UK) Power Ltd Tel: ++44 (0) 1844 204430 l info@ecopacpower.co.uk www.ecopacpower.co.uk 23/05/2018 13:15

COVER STORY

LET THERE BE LIGHT (AND A BIT OF CONTROL) Continuing from the front cover, flex7 explains the benefits of its new range of plug-in switches.

F

ortunately, John Henry Holmes soon provided the perfect addition to Edison’s light bulb by inventing the ‘quick-break’ switch in 1884. His design ensured the contacts opened or closed very quickly, regardless of the force exerted by the operator on the actuator, which significantly reduced the amount of arcing inherent in previous incarnations, and prolonged the working life of the switch.

Thus, the humble light switch was born, and ever since we’ve been able to turn the bedroom light off.

Aesthetically, the light switch has evolved since the advent of the quickbreak switch, but the principles behind its operation have remained fundamentally the same.

If the mechanics of the light switch haven’t changed much per se, the methods and materials employed when wiring to it certainly have. If you want to comply with current wiring regs, then there’s a good chance that today’s switch drop will require not only earthed mechanical protection, but RCD protection as well, depending on the particular characteristics of the installation. Section 522.6 of BS 7671 details these requirements in full and compliance will almost certainly result in the need for additional materials, labour, and the costs associated with purchasing and installing them.

If you’d rather avoid installing earthed metallic and/or RCD protection to literally every switch drop, yet still comply with BS 7671, the aforementioned Section 522.6 provides a means of doing so in the form of regulation 522.6.204, indent (v): “For the purposes of Regulation 522.6.201 (ii), Regulation 522.6.202 (ii) and Regulation 522.6.203 (ii), a cable shall... (v) form part of a SELV or PELV circuit meeting the requirement of Regulation 414.4.”

Popular misconceptions You may think that installing a PELV control system is a costly and complicated exercise, and that sticking with the more familiar 230V option is easier, but nothing could be further from the truth. The flex7 system incorporates PELV control as standard, meaning that

any wiring to a connected control device, whether switch or sensor, requires neither mechanical nor RCD protection, regardless of cable location.

Furthermore, because the link from controller to device is made via factory prepared leads complete with RJ connectivity, there’s no onsite cutting, stripping and terminating required; everything simply plugs together.

In short, opting to go down the PELV route can make for a quick, easy, error-free install with the added bonus of reducing materials and labour.

“That familiar old light switch that we instinctively fumble for as we enter or leave the room will remain a familiar fixture in our lives for a good while yet.”

Plug-in technology Since their inception in 2003, all flex7 sensor heads have incorporated RJ connectivity and operated at PELV, a feature which has been well received by our customers. However, when it comes to a switch lead, although one end plugs into the controller, the third-party switch at the other end is invariably a standard catalogue product from one of the mainstream accessory manufacturers, and as such has to be connected using the time honoured method of screwed terminals. Clearly, it still operates at PELV (5V in this instance) courtesy of the controller, but is no quicker to physically connect up than any common or garden switch.

Last year we launched our own flex7 scene set plate, and because we think plug-in control is a better option than hard-wired, we built RJ connectivity into it as standard. Feedback from installers has been extremely positive, and one comment has rung out loud and clear: “You should do switches like this!”

We’ve listened and have developed a range of momentary switches that operate at PELV, plug-in at the control pack and, uniquely, plug-in at the switch as well. In doing so, they have probably brought about one of the biggest changes the light switch has seen in more than a hundred years.

Why make the switch? flex7 momentary switches come in a black or white finish, and are designed to clip directly into any manufacturer’s 50x50 Euromod decorative fascia, ensuring seamless integration with the specified accessories – which should keep the architects happy. Whether using a one, two, three or four-gang variant, a standard single back box with 60.3mm

centre is all that’s required, so no need to choose between single or double at first fix stage; one size fits all.

Because the lead is factory prepared with the RJ plug, connecting the switch literally takes a second, as opposed to the minute it probably takes on average to terminate a conventional 230V, one-gang, one-way; stripping the sheath, baring the conductors, sleeving the earth, connecting via screwed terminals. Add this to the considerable saving with respect to labour as a result of opting for a PELV system, and the opportunity to reduce installation time to a minimum has never been so attainable.

The ability to mix and match module colour with decorative fascias from most accessory manufacturers means that the intended ’look’ need not be compromised, and, in the spirit of Part M2, Section 4 of The Building Regulations, also makes it possible to achieve a colour contrast between switch, fascia and wall finish to aid partially sighted users if required.

Simply plug-in a switch drop lead to provide PELV switching in seconds

Not the end yet Despite a flurry of recent articles in the trade press predicting its imminent demise due to the rise of smart lighting and IoT, that familiar old light switch that we instinctively fumble for as we enter or leave the room will remain a familiar fixture in our lives for a good while yet. We’d be as bold as to say that we can guarantee tens of thousands will be installed in building projects up and down the UK in the next 12 months alone. If each of those switches were a flex7 plug-in switch, then overall time-savings could be phenomenal.

Flex7, flex7.co.uk

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INTRODUCING THE NEW flex7 RANGE OF P L U G - I N P E LV S W I T C H E S . flex7 have developed a unique range of plug-in switches that operate at Protected Extra Low Voltage (PELV) and offer the installer dramatic time savings. Switches are connected using a lead with RJ11 connectors, one end plugging into the switch, the other into the flex7 control pack or ZoneLite unit. This negates the need for on-site cable preparation and results in the switch being connected in seconds.

Time-saving alternative to traditional switches.

Retractive and centre return retractive options available.

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Simple plug-in installation with RJ11 connectivity No onsite terminations Available as 1, 2, 3 or 4 gang module Retractive & centre return retractive options Clips into 50mm x 50mm Euromod style fascia Black or white to suit decor / Part M Operates at Protected Extra Low Voltage (PELV)

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Company 22/05/2018 11:53

CONTRACT NEWS OVER 4,500M OF UNITRUNK INSTALLED AT THE NEW PRESTON BUS STATION As part of a multi-million pound redevelopment of the iconic transport hub, over 4,500m of Unitrunk’s multicompartment trunking solutions were specified throughout Preston Bus Station to house the building’s power and lighting cabling.

The refurbishment of the 1960s brutalist building has radically transformed the public space for the community and now plays a key role in the wider regeneration of Preston City Centre. In keeping with its listed status, the major transport hub has seen improvements to the bus station, coach park and multi-level car park.

Whilst the scheme is not due to be officially completed until 2019, the multi-phase renovation has already seen the western side of the bus station become pedestrianised alongside a new-look waiting area with state-of-the-art passenger facilities, including a Changing Places toilet.

The design team were keen to sympathetically integrate the electrical systems throughout the project. Unitrunk were approached in the early stages of planning and designed

ROLEC EV AND DELTA SIGN DC RAPID CHARGER PARTNERSHIP Rolec EV has added DC rapid chargers to its range after signing a partnership agreement with Delta Electronics for the UK market.

Kieron Alsop, Rolec’s MD, commented, “After intensive research, which included undertaking a comprehensive due diligence process, we felt Delta and its high quality DC rapid charger range was the perfect fit for us, complementing our already extensive AC charging range.

“One of the key factors in choosing Delta as our DC partner was the impressive range of charging speeds and capacities they currently offer. These include 25kW, 50kW, 75kW, 100kW, 125kW and 150kW Ultra-Fast Chargers (UFC) with the majority of the units featuring up to six charging outlets and the ability to charge up to four electric vehicles simultaneously.

Rajbir Kambo, e-mobility and smart energy solutions sales director for Delta Electronics’ Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) region, added, “We are delighted to have appointed Rolec EV, one of Europe’s leading EV charge point manufacturers, as our preferred partner for the UK market.

“We look forward to closely working with them to further strengthen the nation’s DC rapid charger network and provide a full installation, maintenance and after sales support service.”

“With Rolec already established as one of the world’s leading AC charge point providers, we felt that they were the best placed company within the UK to take the Delta DC rapid charger range forward. With immediate effect Rolec will become our UK stockist of DC chargers and associated components.”

a bespoke solution that would enable both aesthetic and practical requirements to be fulfilled. In the passenger waiting areas, it was integral for the trunking solutions to seamlessly blend in with the contemporary appearance of the scheme. With that, 4,500m of Unitrunk’s multicompartment trunking, which was powder-coated in white was specified and installed.

Similarly, within the multi-level parking areas of the building, Unitrunk’s multi-compartment trunking was also installed on the ceilings in a powder-coated ‘concrete’ effect to echo the matte finish of the car park. Using the RAL colour matching system – designed specifically for achieving colour standards used in applications such as powder coating – Unitrunk was successfully able to provide a trunking solution to the client’s precise specification.

Unitrunk’s bespoke systems were also provided with screw fixed lids – an anti-vandalism solution necessary for the low-level ceilings situated in the multi-storey car parks.

TAUNTON DEANE WINS NATIONAL AWARD AFTER INSTALLING GAS TAGS Taunton Deane Borough Council has won a national award after installing Gas Tag’s software in its 4,500 properties.

Gas Tag is designed to help to save lives by stopping unqualified gas fitters from working on appliances in people’s homes.

In the recent AGSM awards, which celebrate gas safety in social housing, Taunton Deane Borough Council won the Social Housing Compliance Initiative award. The awards were announced at their annual national conference dinner at the Hinckley Island Hotel in Leicestershire.

In the upcoming IGEM Gas Safety Awards, which honours outstanding companies in the sector, Taunton Deane Borough Council has also been shortlisted for Innovative Product and Innovative Project together with Gas Tag. Gas Tag verifies the credentials of gas engineers via a direct link to the Gas Safe Register. Each engineer has to evidence their competency and their completed job gets uploaded to a centralised portal where the data can be monitored in real-time. This provides landlords with a ‘NASA-style’ dashboard for gas safety compliance.

LUCECO LIGHTS ARK BYRON PRIMARY ACADEMY Luceco and Rawfield Electrical Contractors, based in Hull, have recently completed the supply and installation of over 400 energy saving LED luminaires at Ark Byron Primary Academy’s brand-new school, located at The Vale, London. The Education Funding Agency (EFA) funded the new building and pupils attended their new school for the first time in February.

Simon Beeston, director at Rawfield said, “Ark Byron School was a great project to work on alongside Eco Modular Buildings. The school and all associated were extremely happy with the finish of the building and the lighting scheme worked perfectly. We would recommend Luceco Lighting products as the service and overall product is second to none.”

LED 600x600 LuxPanels were installed throughout the building, serving applications including classrooms, assembly and recreational areas, corridors, and library. LuxPanel requires no maintenance over its lifetime with over 50,000 hours of operational life, as does the IP65 Climate LED luminaire used in the plant and storage areas. Climate Extra has an efficacy of 140 Llm/cW with increased performance for improved energy efficiency.

Platinum downlight luminaires offering potential running cost savings of up to 80% over traditional lamped fittings were installed in various areas including WCs. IP65-rated LED Atlas luminaires were used on stairwells internally and externally, with a modern decorative trim to match the architectural lines of the building, the perfect contemporary finish for this impressive brand-new learning environment.

14 | June 2018

Contract News.indd 14

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CONTRACT NEWS J S WRIGHT SECURES FIRST MAINTENANCE CONTRACT

PROLINE WINS M&E CONTRACT FOR £33M X1 SCHEME Mechanical and electrical engineering contractor, Proline, has been awarded the design development and fit out contract for all building services at X1’s £33m ‘X1 The Gateway’ scheme in Salford Quays under construction by Forrest.

Located on Trafford Road within easy distance of Manchester city centre, the 20-storey luxury residential scheme comprises 191 one- two- and three-bedroom apartments with views out to the Marina at Salford Quays.

Proline has been awarded a £3.7m contract for all mechanical and electrical works on the scheme, building on the company’s portfolio of high-end residential projects, which also includes X1’s ‘X1 The Plaza’ scheme in Manchester; a fully-sold development due to complete in the summer.

Proline is also currently on-site at two high profile private rental sector developments in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.

B.E.G.

Proline has developed the concept mechanical and electrical design, devising a bespoke cooling solution for the project to provide a cost effective approach for preventing overheating and complying with CIBSE’s TM59 guidance on overheating risk.

In addition to the specially-devised cooling solution, Proline’s mechanical design and installation remit also includes domestic hot water supplies, booster water supplies, wet risers, VRF heating systems and ventilation systems with heat recovery.

The company’s electrical works will include installation of all sub mains and BNO electrical distribution, small power, data and TV services, lighting, earthing, ancillary power supplies, fire alarm system, CCTV, access control, door entry systems and solar PV.

J S Wright has stepped up its expansion into facilities management after landing its first maintenance contract.

The contractor, which has offices in Birmingham, Bristol and London, has been awarded a one-year rolling contract to maintain the mechanical and electrical systems at Mount Anvil’s 595-home Keybridge scheme in Vauxhall, London.

J S Wright will provide planned and reactive maintenance for the services, which it also designed and installed. The ongoing luxury development includes Keybridge Lofts – which at 37 storeys, is the UK’s tallest brick apartment block – and eight-storey Keybridge House, which recently opened to its first residents.

Mick Ferguson has been appointed by J S Wright as residential maintenance engineer, with responsibility for ensuring that the development’s plant rooms, heating and ventilation services, fire alarms, CCTV and access controls operate safely and securely and with maximum efficiency at all times.

The experienced aftercare engineer will carry out daily plant inspections and the annual servicing of heat interface units, fan coil units and sprinkler heads in each apartment. He will also support specialist contractors on all health and safety issues and work closely with Mount Anvil’s management company, Y&Y Management.

Philip Oades, estates manager at Mount Anvil, commented, “Creating homes and communities that enhance London’s world-class reputation involves working with partners we can rely on. J S Wright has consistently delivered the quality of service to support our legacy.”

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23/05/2018 11:46

CONTRACT NEWS MBO TAKES PLACE AT LONG ESTABLISHED ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING FIRM IN ROTHERHAM Peter Lilleker, managing director of Rotherham-based Lilleson Engineering Services Ltd, together with wife and business partner, Carol Lilleker, have sold the company to long-serving employee Tony Wade and his partner, Julie Mitchell, for an undisclosed sum.

The family-run business was established in 1984 by Peter’s father, Ernest Lilleker, as a manufacturer of electrical control panels and systems. Since then the company has supplied control panels and systems all over the world, from hydroelectric plants in India to the roof of the centre court at Wimbledon, through its many clients including Fairfield Control Systems Ltd, SCX Special Projects, BOC, British Steel, BAE Systems and Kvaerner.

Tony Wade, who has been with the company from the start, has bought the entire issued share capital together with Julie Mitchell. To ensure a smooth handover, Peter and Carol will remain in a consultancy role with the company for up to 12 months before retiring.

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Contract News.indd 17

G&H Building Services has been appointed to provide full mechanical and electrical works at the Diana, Princess of Wales Hospital scheme in Grimsby.

The work will see the complete design and build of all power services for a new ‘key worker’ student nurse and doctor accommodation facility for professionals working in the hospital.

G&H Building Services was appointed by the main contractor Kier in a £2.5m contract.

The scheme is for the Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust and will see 220 properties built with 96 student en-suite rooms and 124 one-bed apartments.

The development is valued at £16.4m in total, which includes the Trust’s own £1m fit out and contingency work.

G&H Building Services will provide a range of electrical works including a high voltage sub-station,

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low voltage services, LED lighting, fire alarms, voice and data, full access controls and CCTV. Mechanical services will include hot and cold water supplies, extraction, heating, ventilation and air conditioning to the central hub area.

Contracts manager at G&H Building Services, Neil Blunt said, “The scheme will feature the latest mechanical and electrical services to create a pleasant and modern environment for people to enjoy.

“It will transform the on-site accommodation for key workers and meet Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust’s brief of making its living quarters more appealing to help attract and retain medical staff.”

The scheme is replacing the existing staff accommodation facility that is now over 30-years-old.

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23/05/2018 11:46

CONTRACT NEWS REL HELPS BRING SAPPHIRE ICE AND LEISURE CENTRE TO ROMFORD REL Building Services has completed the electrical works for Romford’s £28m Sapphire Ice and Leisure Centre.

Constructed by Willmott Dixon for The London Borough of Havering, the facility includes an eight-lane swimming pool, fitness suite with 100 stations and a 56m x 26m ice rink with a 900-seated spectator area. Built in the heart of the town centre, it is also home to ice hockey team the London Raiders.

Appointed by Kershaw Mechanical Services, REL was responsible for the £2m electrical elements of the project, which took 12 months to complete.

Both the ice rink and swimming pool were in a double height space, so the lighting had to be installed seven metres high. In the ice-rink, REL used high-bay LED luminaires coordinated with AV equipment gantries to ensure uniform lighting over the rink and minimise glare, which is essential for sports events.

Outside of the building, REL was responsible for delivering the lighting which emphasises the architectural

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cladding. The team had to create a vertical ribbon of light at specific points, comprising a watertight LED strip just 16mm wide. REL also advised on the use of cool-white LED lights to set off the blue panelling and give maximum impact.

Simon Cook, senior operations manager at Willmott Dixon, said,

“REL was involved in the electrical design from the very early stages of this project. The team’s experience of the leisure sector and technical knowledge enabled us to refine and evolve the design, ensuring we met the requirements of the customer and maximised efficiency as well as performance.”

NVENT ANNOUNCES COMPLETION OF SEPARATION FROM PENTAIR nVent Electric has announced the completion of its separation from Pentair and its launch as an independent, publicly traded company. nVent shares will begin ‘regular way’ trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol ‘NVT’.

The company has a portfolio of electrical enclosures, electric heat tracing solutions, complete heat management systems, and electrical and fastening solutions, that connect and protect critical systems across the globe where the cost of failure is high. Its electrical solutions help maximise customer efficiency, improve utilisation, lower installation costs as well as the total cost of ownership and minimise downtime.

“With the completion of this spin, nVent has achieved a major milestone in becoming a more focused, global leader in providing electrical connection and protection solutions to customers around the world,” said Beth Wozniak, nVent’s chief executive officer. “We are going to be a fast-paced, dynamic growth company, focused on our customers and moving with velocity. I am proud to be part of the nVent team and am confident in the strategy and portfolio we have in place to deliver long-term shareholder value.”

The distribution of nVent ordinary shares occurred effective at 4:59PM EDT on April 30, 2018. In the distribution, nVent issued one nVent ordinary share for each Pentair ordinary share, held as of the close of business on April 17, 2018, the record date for the distribution. nVent customers include commercial builders, energy companies, data centres and industrial manufacturers. The company’s business – divided into three segments – centres on six well-established brands.

WIELAND POWERS UP 15 BISHOPSGATE Wieland Electric has supplied a variety of its gesis pluggable systems for the supply of lighting and power throughout 15 Bishopsgate, part of the Tower 42 estate in the heart of London. The building by The Tower Limited Partnership will provide Grade A office space and is situated on a prominent corner position in the area, a short walk from Liverpool Street station.

15 Bishopsgate offers 57,000sqft of brand new office space arranged over the ground and six upper floors, in addition to 22,000sqft of retail space at ground level that edges the re-landscaped public areas. The new BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and EPC A-rated building, utilises Wieland’s gesis pluggable systems to supply power to the LED lighting and general power to the building, including the four pipe coil air conditioning units.

According to Wieland, using the gesis system for electrical services applications provides fast, safe and efficient power and lighting connection, saving up to 70% in installation time and up to 30% in cost reduction.

Philips Lighting has equipped Dubai’s Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU) with state-of theart connected LED lighting controlled by its Interact Office system. The technology enables faculty staff to control and personalise light settings using a smartphone app, while students can be guided to rooms using lighting-based indoor positioning technology.

HBMSU is committed to using technology to make the learning environment more engaging, adaptive and immersive. Its students receive a combination of web-based and classroom learning that places it at the forefront of modern university education.

Instead of using light switches, HBMSU’s lighting is controlled in a variety of ways: by occupancy sensors in luminaires that detect people’s presence, switching on and off lighting; by automatic adjustment of light levels according to the availability of natural daylight; by a smartphone/tablet app; or from a central console.

Interact Office enables the university to deliver new experiences and services. The software system is integrated with the university’s Building Management System (BMS) so that all the building systems work together seamlessly. Also, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is synced with the class schedule so that air conditioning is switched on before a class starts and students don’t have to enter a warm room. As staff or students enter a room, the lights switch on using presence detection and when the room is vacated the lights and HVAC switch off.

“Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University has always been at the forefront of realising the vision of the Dubai government as it implements forward-looking initiatives that position Dubai as the smartest city in the world. Our collaboration with Philips Lighting means we’re able to deliver a better environment for our students and faculty and a highly personalised learning experience.

This lighting network will enable us to intuitively support and complement the university’s needs, both today and into the future. As the first university globally to incorporate this technology we’re paving the way for future smart learning institutions,” said Dr. Mansoor Al Awar, chancellor of HBMSU.

18 | June 2018

Contract News.indd 18

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14/05/2018 16:02:42 14/05/2018 16:20

TRAINING REDHILL APPRENTICE AWARDED VIP VISIT TO NO.10

WAXMAN ENERGY HOLDS UK’S FIRST INSTALLER TRAINING BY VARTA STORAGE

An aspiring electrical wholesaling apprentice from Redhill, Surrey, was invited for a tour of No. 10 Downing Street as part of an industry training programme.

Max Kershaw works for CEF in the company’s Redhill store. The 17-year-old is training for a career in electrical wholesaling and his visit to No.10, which occurred on May 10, was organised by London based training provider, Hawk Training. Hawk Training is a partner of EDA Apprenticeships Plus, the organisation that runs and manages the apprenticeship programme on behalf of the sector’s trade association, the Electrical Distributors’ Association.

While on the tour, Max was able to view historic rooms and artefacts that played a fundamental part in British history. Having enjoyed the guided tour around No. 10 Downing Street, Max said, “This was a really interesting experience for me, and something I’ll never forget. The electrical wholesaling sector offers some fantastic career development opportunities for young people and school leavers and I’m delighted to have been able to represent the industry at such an important British location.

“By being a part of the EDA Apprenticeships Programme, I’ve been given some really valuable opportunities, and I’d definitely recommend the initiative to others.”

Max’s manager at CEF, James Francis, added, “Max is a terrific apprentice and the fact that he was chosen for a visit to No. 10 is testament to this. He has delivered to very high standards in both his job and his apprenticeship qualification. Max is keen, thoughtful, conscientious, and hardworking and a real asset to our business.”

Waxman Energy has held the very first VARTA Storage approved installer training in the UK. The one-day installer training is part of ongoing training sessions at Waxman Energy and covers the complete installation of the VARTA Pulse, a small, compact wall-mounted AC coupled storage system for domestic use.

Successful completion of the training will allow qualified electricians to competently install the home energy system, whilst gaining access to the VARTA Installer Network.

Split into two parts, the first part of the training covers all technical aspects of the Pulse including installation, connecting to the grid and the commissioning process. The second part delves into the use of ‘VARTA Connect’ – a virtual system used to effectively communicate with the PV data logger, Smart Grid and Smart Home applications.

Real-time data, graphs and statistics can be monitored through the online portal or via the VARTA Storage app.

The first VARTA Storage installer training day was held on May 7 at Waxman Energy Ltd, West Yorkshire. The next is scheduled date is the June 7 with subsequent dates to follow.

FIA LAUNCHES TWO NEW COURSES FROM THE QUALIFICATION PATHWAY The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced two new courses, working as the next step in the route to becoming qualified after completing the FIA Foundation course.

The new qualification pathway is designed for those working within the fire detection and alarm sector, to provide qualifications for designers, installers, maintainers and commissioners. The two new units – Heath and Safety, and the Environment unit – are available to book now.

The courses are only available to those who have taken and passed the Foundation course (though it does not matter which order the Health and Safety and the Environment courses are taken).

As the name of the course suggests, the Health and Safety unit enables learners to get a deeper understanding of the potential workplace hazards and how these could be best avoided, leading to safer workplace environments. The course will be available nationwide and will be a one-day course with an exam.

The exam for the Health and Safety unit is the industry standard ECS exam, which the FIA Awarding Organisation (the OFQUAL registered examination body behind the fire detection qualifications) recognises as a pass for the Health and Safety unit.

The second course to be released by the FIA is the Environment course. This unit guides learners through the environmental factors that affect those working in the fire detection and alarm sector.

Prior learning also applies to this course too. If learners hold the NEBOSH Certificate in Environmental Management, plus the FIA course F-Gas Certification for Service Technicians and the FIA course Critical Uses of Halon, then this will be recognised as a pass – but learners must hold all three of these.

MCCANN DELIVERS HIGHWAYS ENGLAND HEALTH AND SAFETY PASSPORT SCHEME Nottingham-based civil and electrical engineering firm McCann has been approved by awarding body Lantra to deliver the new Highways England Common Induction course that underpins the new Highways England Health and Safety Passport Scheme.

The Highways England Common Induction course was developed to promote best practice standards including safety, health, wellbeing and environment management. The course raises

awareness of the significant risks on the strategic road network, helps eliminate repetitive general site inductions and aims to set common safety standards.

Highways England require that

by March 2019, all construction workers on the strategic road network will have a Safety Passport which securely holds all their key ‘authority to work’ information.

It is estimated that at least 50,000 construction workers

will needs to have the Highways England Common Induction course prior to applying for their Safety Passport.

Training manager at McCann, Ersoy Errol, said, “Working in close partnership with Lantra means that we are able to take responsibility for, and implement training for, fellow professionals in order to ensure that the industry is fully compliant with the highest health and safety standards.”

20 | June 2018

Training.indd 20

23/05/2018 11:47

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21/03/2018 14:16

KEY ISSUE

RETENTIONS: THE BIGGER PICTURE The collapse of Carillion in January, and May’s Select Committee post-Carillion report, sent shockwaves through the construction and service industries alike. With many firms still at risk of going out of business due to unpaid bills, ECA director of business Paul Reeve considers the urgent and major changes that need to be made in the construction industry.

T

he liquidation of Carillion in January has highlighted just how much can go wrong with the payment and procurement practices of a main contractor.

Significant cash retentions were just one of the culprits that have led to supply chain losses. ECA has been at the forefront of lobbying to reform, and eventually get rid of, payment retentions. We, along with industry partners, have called on the government to introduce a system where retentions are held in trust, on the road to their eventual abolition.

Putting retentions in trust is a vital first step in helping to protect the supply chain from future upstream insolvency, as well as helping to prevent the abuse of retention monies owed to the supply chain.

What are retentions and who holds them?

Many contractors work to a system of cash retentions, where money is held by buyers such as a client or main contractor, until these buyers confirm that the work done is satisfactory.

Typically, retentions can be worth 5% of the contract value, though it can go up to 10%, and they may be held for periods of up to 18 months, or sometimes longer.

Often, the value of the cash retentions will be higher than the profit margin the subcontractor is aiming for to make the work financially viable.

A SEC Group freedom of information request has revealed that retentions are not just held by private sector clients and main contractors. Alarmingly, over eight in 10 public sector bodies, including local authorities, also hold retentions, which can be up to 10%.

An ECA and BESA survey carried out in the immediate aftermath of Carillion’s liquidation showed that Carillion owed at least £75m to 80 engineering services firms, with contractors of all sizes affected. Small firms (10-49 employees)

were owed £141,000 on average – for one firm, a shocking £800,000 was owed.

Overall losses will continue to emerge over time, so the final figures are likely to be much higher.

The ‘Aldous’ retentions Bill “The liquidation of Carillion in January has highlighted just how much can go wrong with the payment and procurement practices of a main contractor.”

Back in December 2017, ECA and the BESA brought together a coalition of over 20 professional bodies and trade associations to sign an open letter, which called on the government to legislate as soon as possible for a retentions trust scheme to be introduced. In January, and just days before Carillion collapsed, Peter Aldous, Conservative MP for Waveney, introduced a ‘10-minute rule’ Bill that aimed to change retentions practice and protect monies from insolvency by putting them in trust. The so-called Aldous Bill passed its first reading unopposed, and has continued to garner growing support ever since, leading up to its anticipated second reading in June.

Since January, the build-up of support for the Bill has been remarkable. As of mid-May 2018, the coalition for payment reform comprises 80 trade bodies, representing over 430,000 businesses.

Over 120 MPs from across the political spectrum including Conservatives, Labour, Liberal Democrats, SNP, DUP, Plaid Cymru and the Green Party are also in favour of ring-fencing retentions. Supporting MPs represent constituencies covering the whole of the UK. This unprecedented level of support shows that trade and other bodies are capable of uniting around a key issue, with ECA and partner organisation BESA taking a leading role.

The abuse of retentions has already been legislated against in many advanced economies, including the USA, Germany, France, New Zealand, Australia and Canada. Yet in the UK, government research shows £700m of retentions were lost due to upstream insolvency, in the three years before Carillion’s collapse. This means that, on average, on each working day, the supply chain loses almost £1m to retentions alone.

In late April 2018, a petition on fair payment and retentions was delivered to Prime Minister Theresa May by Peter Aldous MP and a delegation of industry leaders including ECA’s CEO Steve Bratt, FSB national chair Mike Cherry, FMB chief executive Brian Berry, director general of the Institute of Directors Stephen Martin, and BESA CEO David Frise.

Supporters of the Aldous Bill and the petition on fair payments also gathered outside the gates of Number 10, including business owners directly affected by the collapse of Carillion in January.

What’s next?

ECA, along with the BESA and other members of SEC Group, have agreed a five-point plan, which includes pressing for contractors to be paid directly through mechanisms such as project bank accounts, legislative and policy action to prevent late payment, and of course, retentions to be held in trust.

As Peter Aldous MP said when promoting his parliamentary bill, this is a golden opportunity to improve the industry, level the playing field for SMEs and protect thousands of businesses and jobs.

What happened at Carillion is the polar opposite of what our industry needs. It’s simply not enough for large contractors to say they will behave in future; we now need government intervention to ensure responsible corporate governance, and the protection of the supply chain.

Efforts to show construction is an attractive industry are grossly undermined by what’s happened this year, and only an incurable optimist would conclude Carillion is an industry one-off. The government must intervene, to provide a proper platform for how the industry does business.

Carillion’s collapse highlighted fatal supply chain and procurement problems, and the need an urgent remedy.

Reforming the construction payment and cash retentions system is vital for the protection of (otherwise growing) smaller businesses, for innovation and sustainable economic growth, and for the future of the UK industry.

22 | June 2018

Key Issue.indd 22

23/05/2018 11:47

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www.martindale-electric.co.uk Call: 01923 441717 email: sales@martindale-electric.co.uk

ET Series advert 244x340mm rev6.indd 1 Untitled-8 1

04/01/2018 07:11:51 22/05/2018 11:53

COMPETITION

WIN A 4MP SUPER HD CCTV KIT

E

SP has introduced a brand-new 4MP CCTV range. The launch supplies the market with a complete collection of superior quality, high-end CCTV products, and sets ESP apart as providing the most comprehensive CCTV range through the electrical wholesaler.

Marketed under the well-known ESP brand, the new range, HDView, offers an upgrade from 1080p (2MP) to 4MP to give users a higher density of pixels to produce a super high definition image clarity. At the same time as offering an improved image specification, the range also benefits from sleek modern styling for a contemporary look that is being demanded by more and more end-users.

The range will comprise a collection of DVRs, cameras and an ultra-HD monitor. The initial offer will include a four and eight channel DVR which will cover the majority of installations.

Support for 4MP live view and recording comes as standard and, as existing 720p and 1080p are also compatible, it allows the user to upgrade the system gradually if and when required.

The new HDView range offers features such as motion, continuous and schedule record, with simple footage playback and backup method of distributing essential footage. As standard, the range is packed with remotely accessible functions including live view by smartphone app, email triggering, cloud ID connection and storage. The tailor-made ESP HDView app has been developed to enable quick and simple remote viewing. The app is free to download and is compatible with Android and iOS operating systems.

There are a number of hard drive options to suit storage demands using the renowned surveillance hard drives by Western Digital, which are available in sizes from one to 8TB. The new 4MP cameras are available in dome and bullet designs, all in a modern style metal housing. There is a choice of a white or grey finish to add further options when considering them for internal or external applications. They are all manufactured with a 4MP image sensor to produce excellent

images. Improved infrared LEDs across the range contribute to significantly improved night time viewing. Each camera has an on-screen display for programming parameters, with the settings all controlled by the DVR. To support the range, ESP is also introducing an ultra-HD LED CCTV monitor. The 28in monitor, with an LED energy-efficient screen, offers 4K (3840x2160) maximum resolution. It has two HDMI inputs for DVR/NVR connection, audio output and an HDMI cable included. It features gloss black housing and comes with a desktop stand and VESA standard wall mount option (100x100mm).

A new, dedicated A4 brochure has been produced to capture the new range and this is available to download via the ESP website. Free training and technical support is also available to customers, installers and end-users.

For further information, contact ESP on 01527 515150, email info@espuk.com or visit espuk.com.

To be in with a chance of winning, simply answer the following questions: 2. What brand name does ESP’s new 4MP CCTV range come under? a) HDReady b) HDView c) HDMI

1. ESP’s brand-new 4MP CCTV range includes: a) Two and four channel DVR b) Four and eight channel DVR c) Four and six channel DVR

3. The new 4MP cameras are available in which designs? a) Dome b) Bullet c) Dome and bullet

Courtesy of

April competition The winner of two British Superbike VIP tickets courtesy of Hager is Derrick May of Ardek Ltd.

Closing date All entries must be returned by June 30, 2018. The editor’s decision is final.

The name of the winner will be published in the August issue of ECN. * Prize is not exchangeable.

To enter, please complete the form below and fax to 01634 673173, or post to: ECN Competition, All Things Media Ltd, Suite 14, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Kent, ME5 8UD. Alternatively, you can email your answers and contact details to: carol@allthingsmedialtd.com.

The answers to June’s competition are: 1.............................................. 2. . .............................................. 3. .................................................

Personal Details Name..................................................................................................................................

Have you previously registered for your free monthly copy of ECN? What is the main activity of your business?

Yes

How many people read your copy of ECN? 1

2-3

4-6

1

Electrical contractor

2

Manufacturer

3

Wholesale/distribution

Are you a member of any of the following trade bodies?

4

Consultancy

1

NICEIC

5

Public utilities

2 3

6+

No

Which of the following areas are you interested in?

1

Circuit protection and switchgear

2

Test equipment

3

Tools

4

Cable management

ECA

5

Security

B&ES

6

Fire detection & emergency lighting

7

Lighting

8

Heating and ventilation

9

UPS

6

Facilities management

7

Training/qualifications

8

Trade association

4

SELECT

9

Other (please specify)

5

NAPIT

6

ELECSA

10

Wiring accessories

7

IET

11

Network infrastructures

12

Other (please specify) .

How many full time employees work for your company?

1-5

6-10

21-50

Competition.indd 24

51+

11-20 .

8

Other (please specify).

....................................................

Job Title..............................................................................................................................

Company Name.................................................................................................................

Address.............................................................................................................................. ..................................................................................... Postcode.......................................

Tel.......................................................... Mobile .................................................................

E-mail................................................................................................................................

Important Notice For audit purposes we need to update our database. Complete this form stating any changes and make sure you fill in the analysis tick boxes. Please do not forget to sign and date your form to ensure you receive your magazine every month.

Signature........................................................................ Date.............................................

...................................................

23/05/2018 11:48

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Untitled-13 1

14/05/2018 16:23

PROJECT FOCUS

THINKING GREEN Universities are epicentres of learning – so what better place could there be to teach future generations about taking an economical approach to energy management? Prefect Controls explains how its Irus Building Energy Management system has helped Bath Spa University maintain its green credentials.

B

ath Spa University takes the responsibility of protecting the environment very seriously. It has participated in the People and Planet Green League table since 2009, achieving two top 10 positions in that time.

Minimising energy and water waste, improving efficiency and driving down carbon emissions all make good business sense and go hand in hand with providing a first class working, living and studying environment. The estate is managed to be as clean, efficient and biodiverse as possible, always striving to minimise any negative impacts on the environment.

Prefect Controls offered Bath Spa University a Building Energy Management system for electric heating

26 | June 2018

Project Focus – Prefect Controls.indd 26

23/05/2018 13:51

PROJECT FOCUS Staying sustainable Dr Julian Greaves is the sustainability manager at Bath Spa University, and his job entails energy management, waste management, environmental legal compliance and helping the university to be a more sustainable organisation through engagement and curriculum development.

When the university recently took over Green Park House in the centre of the city, it became apparent that a control system was needed to ensure efficient use of energy for heating. As Dr Greaves explains, “Green Park House is a 460bed accommodation unit that was built speculatively by developers. As a result, it used electric heating and electric hot water but had no controls whatsoever apart from a boost button.

“I was looking for a control package for electric heating. There are a lot of Building Energy Management systems available, but they are all based on controlling gas fired equipment, not specifically for electricity.

I was recommended Prefect Controls by a peer organisation and am not aware of any other provider that supplies a similar product. Prefect Irus is a single, complete, bespoke solution.”

In addition to satisfying the criteria from a performance and energy savings perspective, another deciding factor was the ease of installation, as he explains; “The ability to install the system without disruption to the fabric of the building was definitely an enabler for the project; we really didn’t want to start interfering with walls and ceilings to install data cabling and things like that.”

Full steam ahead So, having researched thoroughly, the decision was made. “The purchasing process was easy. It was partially funded through Salix and the university paid the rest. It was quite an easy sell, as the building had minimal heating control and the energy savings stacked up. We bought direct from Prefect and they installed the system too,” Dr Greaves explains.

Energy costs were very much a primary consideration in the choice of control system and with Prefect Control’s calculation predicting up to 40% savings, Irus became a very attractive proposition.

“Energy costs were a primary consideration in the choice of control system and with Prefect Control’s calculation predicting up to 40% savings, Irus became a very attractive proposition.”

Dr Greaves continues, “The software package gives us a lot of other advantages that we wouldn’t otherwise have. It enables us to understand the occupation of rooms.

There is a lot of useful information that it gives us. It provides much more than simple room heating control.”

Levels of light and humidity sensors, along with sound level indicators, can be set to alert accommodation managers to under-performing ventilation equipment, failing lights and even anti-social noise.

“We are learning how to make the most of the full extent of these features,” he continues. “The information we receive on the immersions in cylinders, for example, is highlighting immediately when there is a problem with any of the hot water tanks, so for maintenance it is great. It shows us what the hot water consumption is for each of the tanks, so that gives us an idea of how much provision we need to make for the students. We will be taking advantage of Triad warnings and DUoS and TUoS and that will all add in to the analysis of savings.

“The ability to increase the temperature in a student’s room, when they ask for it, and then for it to automatically return back to the original settings after a period of time, is very useful. It makes sure that if changes are made to the settings then they

are not just left there forever, they always revert back.

Irus is so simple to use, we haven’t had any complaints from students on the operation of the system or the comfort levels, so that says something.”

Learning lessons

Simplicity is key – students were able to operate the Irus system easily

Another innovation on the Irus CU3 is the window-open detection technology. The algorithms ‘learn’ how long a room takes to reach a pre-determined temperature and also the dissipation rates. If there is a sudden temperature drop, the only explanation is that a window or door is open, allowing heat to escape rapidly.

“We are using the algorithm that assesses whether a window is open, which is very useful. When we first looked at the system, this feature hadn’t been designed, so we were going to put window switches in, but during the process, Prefect developed this algorithm, so we didn’t need the window switches and that actually reduced the cost of the project,” Dr Greaves explains.

Smooth sailing The Green Park House installation was completed in September 2017 and all is going to plan. Data is being monitored closely to assess savings, however as Dr Greaves explains, “we need to go through a whole heating season before we can assess the savings, but we are really pleased with the system, it fulfils all the criteria and then some.”

Asked if the university would be considering extending its use of Irus, Dr Greaves disclosed, “we will be testing out the cost effectiveness of using servo controlled TRVs in wet systems using the Irus system in the future.

“I think that Prefect Controls were possibly the best contractor that I have dealt with in the eight years that I have been at Bath Spa University – the whole relationship from start to finish was excellent, I couldn’t fault it. I think the system is great, and I can’t really think of anything that it can’t do that would be useful for us.”

Prefect Controls, prefectcontrols.com

June 2018 | 27

Project Focus – Prefect Controls.indd 27

23/05/2018 13:52

ADVERTISEMENT

SMART, SIMPLE CONTROL Make room for the new DALI LINK STARTERSET, says B.E.G. – ideal for small offices and meeting rooms.

B

.E.G. has launched one of the simplest single-room DALI scene solutions on the market, which can easily be controlled via an app on a Bluetooth device.

The new B.E.G. DALI LINK STARTERSET is the latest building automation product to be released by B.E.G. It is ideal for small offices and meeting rooms as it contains all the components that are required to control and set scenes for DALI-enabled lights.

This practical starter pack includes three easy-to-use products – the superflat B.E.G. PD11 occupancy multi-sensor, a four-way push button interface to access lighting scenes, and the DALI power supply, which is connected to the light fittings in the ceiling. The B.E.G. DALI LINK STARTSET is available from selected electrical wholesalers, and a video has been released on B.E.G’s YouTube channel so electrical professionals can see just how easy it is to install and commission.

New innovations The B.E.G. PD11 is a flush-fitting occupancy sensor with a thickness of less than 1mm, and is hardly visible once it has been fitted into the ceiling. It provides intelligent lighting control by reliably detecting brightness and movement in the room within an area of up to 9m.

The innovative push button interface is combined with a suitable retractable switch, or scene plate. It houses a Bluetooth interface, which allows easy programming via a smartphone or tablet device using the free B.E.G. DALI LINK app.

The app contains a protected area which allows the installer to securely and intuitively commission the DALI LINK STARTERSET and allow the levels to be automatically queried and displayed. The end-user can activate pre-set scenes at any time, with up to 16 scenarios pre-installed, or to even create their own.

The lighting can also be conventionally switched and dimmed as required.

“The starter packs enable electrical wholesalers to offer an ‘off the shelf’ single room lighting solution.”

Setting the scene The DALI LINK solution allows more than just scenes to be set up and controlled. A guide light function can also be created to reduce dark spots, or to allow the lights in adjacent areas and corridors to be on at a dimmed level. This ensures a controlled pool of light follows users.

All DALI lighting groups, the push button interface and sensors (including slaves) use just one single pair cable to connect, making it easier for electricians to install. Additional sensors can be connected in the DALI line as slave devices, so extending the area coverage. The system is expandable, with the STARTERSET controlling up to 25 DALI lights, and six control devices.

Far reaching lighting Additional B.E.G. parts can be ordered to increase the capacity of the system, including a scene switch plate, or more sensors to increase the area coverage.

The offset regulation offers the possibility to control up to two lighting zones. This feature can be used by end-users to create a

structured lighting level which takes the daylight into consideration.

An orientation light function can also be activated and operates after the follow-up has been achieved. It limits the light level of the connected lights, so ensuring safety critical areas are never dark, while still offering substantial energy cost-savings.

B.E.G. director for UK and Ireland, Paul Jones, says of the system, “We’re really excited about the launch of the new B.E.G. DALI LINK STARTERSET single room solution. It is easy to use and enables the end-user to control room lighting and scene selection via the push button module or individually at a touch of a button from a compatible smartphone which can result in substantial energy savings.

“The DALI LINK STARTERSET enables the user to set the environment to whatever lighting scene is required and it is ideal for use in small offices or meeting rooms. The starter packs enable electrical wholesalers to offer an ‘off the shelf’ single room lighting solution in potentially sizeable quantities to electrical professionals who can install it for endusers quickly and effectively.”

B.E.G., beg-luxomat.com

28 | June 2018

BEG Advertorial.indd 28

24/05/2018 19:06

EASIER. SAFER. FASTER. Starbreaker Miniature RCBO with switched neutral as standard, at no extra cost.

Whatever your customers use electrical appliances for, indoors or out, the Starbreaker Miniature RCBO with switched neutral as standard makes it all safer. Whether mowing the lawn or grilling up some sizzling barbecue treats, they’ll be better protected thanks to this clever little RCBO, which switches off both live and neutral in the event of a fault – isolating the power supply to faulty circuits or appliances. Easy to install and simple to test, it’s a miniature device that’s big on safety.

Discover the Starbreaker Miniature RCBO at www.electrium.co.uk/miniRCBO

Untitled-2 1 Electrium_3642_Spring_Campaign_244x340_REPRO_AS.indd 2

18/05/2018 12:19 10:22

COLUMN

RESIDUAL CURRENT REGULATIONS Doekpe takes a look at what impact the 18th Edition update will have on residual current devices, and how to specify the right product.

I

n the UK, residual current protection may be installed without much consideration for the nature of appliances and loads connected downstream of the residual current device (RCD); this can affect the operation of the RCD. Appliances used in domestic, agricultural and commercial premises, including certain types of washing machines, induction hobs, LED lighting, pumps etc., can produce residual currents that are not compatible with type AC RCDs. The general safety guidance given in the 17th Edition for RCDs is no longer appropriate for many appliances and loads connected in these installations.

Consequently, the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations will be updated to align with the existing electrical safety standards already adopted in other countries. This will include additional guidance on the use of specific types of RCD, based on the characteristics of the residual current produced by the appliance/load.

Types of RCD

It’s important to verifying what type of RCD is needed before supplying a device

The 18th Edition includes new guidance on the use of specific types of RCD for all installations. Regulation 531.3.3 refers to the use of AC, A, F and B Type RCDs, along with the details of the associated residual current limits (this information is summarised in the table below). When dealing with customers, get into the habit of verifying the type of RCD to ensure you supply the correct device. Manufacturers use standard pictograms to indicate the different types of residual current that can be detected by the device.

Transient resistant Switching on specific appliances or a combination of electrical loads such as LED lighting can produce electrical transients in the order of several 1,000A for a very short duration. These transients can cause nuisance tripping of standard nondelay Type AC and A RCDs. To overcome this problem, RCDs including 30mA devices can be manufactured with transient resistant features (see right hand column in the table). Type AKV, F, B and EV RCDs can withstand a fast transient <3kA/20µs e.g. the regulations recommend the use of transient resistant RCDs if the circuit contains surge protection devices (SPDs) on the load side of the RCD.

Selective/time delay These devices have extended tripping times and a transient resistant feature as standard.

For reasons of safety, 30mA devices cannot be supplied with time delay characteristics.

Ask the right questions Specifying or ordering the wrong product can be very costly and annoying for your customers. You cannot resell a safety product that has been installed, and your customer may not realise that they have the incorrect product until they reach the point of testing the installation. Use this six-point check list to save you time, money and heartache at later stage: Which RCD format?

• If you are asked for an RCD, confirm RCCB, RCBO etc.

• Rating in amps – maximum continuous current?

• RCCBs with higher current ratings can be used, if a lower rating is not available.

• RCBOs, CBRs, AFDDs; select based on current + characteristic (like an MCB).

Number of switched poles?

•R CCB: two or four-pole.

•R CBO: one, two or four-pole.

•A FDD: two-pole (domestic).

•C BR: four-pole.

Rated residual operating current in mA? •< 30 mA: people/additional protection.

•< 300 mA: fire protection.

•> 300 mA: fault disconnection only.

Any other information relating to the application?

•S elective/time delay characteristics for 100mA or greater.

•A ny specific requirements relating to the location/application?

Types of RCD? •S ee table.

•D o not assume it is Type AC/confirm with the customer.

18th Edition future-proof The new regulations incorporate existing electrical safety standards, recognising the need to verify the selection of the RCD based on the residual current characteristics of the appliance or loads connected to the installation. This approach has the benefit of future proofing the regulations regarding protection; as new appliances are introduced to the market, the selection of the RCD will be verified with reference to the residual currents that may be generated by the appliances. The manufacturer of the products you sell should be able to offer technical support for specific applications.

For additional information on RCDs, principles and selection, download the guidance at doepke.co.uk/download/ Techpub-16 Doepke, doepke.co.uk

30 | June 2018

18th Edition – Doepke.indd 30

24/05/2018 19:07

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Pro-Ad-ECN-240x340.indd 1 Untitled-2 1

26/04/2018 10:04:40 30/04/2018 10:48

CASE STUDY

TACKLING THE C WORD Vicki Leslie of ECIS, provider of employee benefits to the contracting sector, outlines a case that highlights the importance of offering specialist health support to employees.

M

ore and more businesses are setting in place employee benefit schemes to ensure speed of access to treatment for workers when they become ill.

The electrical contracting sector is no exception. It understands that by supporting workers in this way, they may not only speed recovery and return to work, but help engender feelings of loyalty – vital in a sector that is battling skill shortages.

Sadly, some illnesses – such as prostate cancer – can progress quickly without any outward signs of the condition.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men; 47,000 men are diagnosed every year – that’s 129 every day. The fact that there are often no symptoms

associated with prostate cancer means that often those affected only realise they have the condition when going through a routine check-up, or are seeking advice related to a different condition. It makes diagnosis a bit of a lottery.

Therefore, access to regular health screenings is vital, as they play an important role in helping to identify underlying health issues so that treatment can begin without delay.

Roy’s story ECIS supports the provision of a healthcare scheme to electrical contractor, DH Crofts. A routine health screening for one of DH Croft’s employees – Roy McLean – really underlines how essential these checks are to supporting employee health and wellbeing.

In the words of Roy Mclean, electrical engineer at DH Crofts: “I was initially

“Access to regular health screenings is vital.”

invited by my company to take part in the Bupa health assessment in January 2017. Although it took me a while to make my mind up and eventually accept the invitation, I went along for what I thought would be routine blood tests and a general health check-up. I mentioned a few symptoms that I was experiencing in the session, but nothing felt alarming in any way. The next day I received a phone call from my doctor who asked me to come into the surgery straight away for some additional blood tests. Turns out that my PSA levels were extremely high, and this was an indicator that there was a possibility that I had prostate cancer.

“From then, everything moved ahead so quickly and I was referred to the Royal Marsden for the necessary PET scans and further tests where I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. I received chemotherapy treatment for four months and then a course

32 | June 2018

Case Study – ECIS.indd 32

24/05/2018 19:08

CASE STUDY

8newproducts...from thewebsite towatch!

As promised, the Emelux website is being expanded month-on-month to include brand new products like those shown below.

Suitable for most types of lighting project, covering interior or exterior areas and available with a next day delivery — they can complete a project even when design and purchase decisions are left until the last minute.

Emelux products are tested and selected to provide high quality, competitively priced lighting equipment to comply with the relevant safety standards and are CE marked.

Please visit www.emelux.co.uk regularly for new and comprehensive product details, and for sales and for any further information, including photometric details, please contact: sales@emelux.co.uk

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Omega of radiotherapy. From the moment the blood test showed that I had high levels of PSA, I felt like my body was a time bomb. If I had not had the test in the first place then I may not have been here to tell my story.

“Although the treatment has been tough, I have been responding very well, and once the radiotherapy has finished I will just need to be monitored from then on. If I had not received the invite for the Bupa health assessment there is no way I would have ever gone to see my GP as I was not experiencing any severe symptoms. The speed and quality of care that I have received has been truly amazing, and I could not have asked for better support from all involved. I would urge anyone who has the opportunity to take part in a health assessment through their employer to attend. Ignorance is not bliss when it comes to your health, particularly in conditions such as cancer,

where speed of access to treatment can have such a huge impact on the outcome.”

Roy’s story really shows the importance of having specialist health support in place for access to early diagnosis and treatment where necessary – from muscle, bone and joint conditions through to cancer and mental health issues. The benefits for the employee are enormous, particularly in cases like Roy’s.

However, there are also business benefits.

By providing early access to support and pro-actively using early intervention services, businesses can reduce the length of a typical absence by 17%. It can also help reduce the cost of health insurance claims which has a knockon effect in helping to lower the cost of premiums and thereby improving access to these kinds of services.

ECIS, ecins.co.uk

June 2018 | 33

Case Study – ECIS.indd 33

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www.emelux.co.uk the website to watch 24/05/2018 19:08

FEATURE

Could integrated panels be the key to saving precious time during installation?

INTEGRATED PANELS

INTEGRATED INSPIRATION Seth Townsley, marketing manager at Schneider Electric, explains how integrated electrical panels can deliver strong return on investment.

T

ime is a precious commodity in today’s tight economy. Speed is of the essence when it comes to electrical installations in new builds or during refurbishment projects. The building owner will receive no return on investment (ROI) on the money they have put into the building until work is complete, whether it be an apartment complex, office building or a manufacturing facility.

While it is hard to admit, electrical contractors can contribute significantly to the time required to build or refurbish a building. In addition to the time needed to run wires throughout the building, they must also put together all the components that go into the panel boards that control the electrical system.

These components include various circuit breakers, power panels and branch circuit panels, low voltage transformers, automatic transfer switches, perhaps individually mounted circuit breakers, and energy or building management systems.

Clearly, it takes time for an electrician to install all of these components then thoroughly test the panel to ensure everything is working properly and safely.

One way to save time is to use an integrated panel. This is a panel that is assembled and tested in the factory to your specifications. Once on-site, electricians can make a few connections to integrate it with existing systems and the job is completed in hours instead of days.

Integrated panels tend to cost more than buying the components separately. However, if you consider the ways integrated panels save time and money, it is easy to see how they deliver a significant return on investment.

Cutting the man hours

“Time is a precious commodity in today’s tight economy.”

Whether for new construction or retrofit, the biggest benefit to integrated panels is the reduction in time and labour involved in installing the panels. The majority of the time, the amount of labour will be reduced enough to offset the higher cost of the panel versus using stickbuilt components. In such cases, ROI is immediately achieved. In all cases, integrated equipment will mean a faster install time, helping to ensure projects stay on time and on budget.

A taxable benefit Often buying integrated panels can be considered a capital equipment purchase, and thus amortised accordingly on future tax returns.

For example, when building a new manufacturing site, you need panels to

34 | June 2018

Integrated Panels – Schneider.indd 34

24/05/2018 19:10

INTEGRATED PANELS

FEATURE

sit beside a piece of equipment to ensure it gets proper voltage. By buying an integrated panel, it’s likely that the panel will be included in the equipment purchase price. This is a benefit that would not be available with a stick-built panel.

Even if you can amortise the stickbuilt equipment, you still have the higher up-front installation labour cost. By using integrated equipment, you can effectively amortise a larger percentage of the installed cost.

Inspection made easy Integrated panels leave the factory fully vetted and tested. When the panel reaches the site, installers know that it will work as expected and that the consequential safety test will likely go quickly and smoothly.

Reducing footprint Panels constructed in the factory can take advantage of design elements that are not available in the field – and that saves significant space. When building a panel in the field, if the contractor has two panel boards and a transformer, they must mount one beside another. But in the factory, the two panel boards can be stacked above the transformer – saving around 40in of wall space. In hospital projects, integrated panels can prove particularly effective as space is very tight.

“Panels constructed in the factory can take advantage of design elements that are not available in the field.”

Greater reliability When a panel is assembled in a factory, the manufacturer can run tests on the equipment that would be impractical to conduct in the field. For example, it is common to conduct ‘hipot’, or high potential, testing which involves running high-voltage current through the panel to ensure all the insulation holds up and to find any errors or faults. Such testing improves the likelihood that the panel will be reliable over the course of its life.

Eager to cut costs and boost revenues, customers highly prize solutions that save time during the installation phase.

An integrated panel, therefore, should not be considered solely on its price. Its fast, efficient and cheaper installation along with its improved reliability and maintenance capabilities, make it the natural choice for electricians to recommend.

Schneider Electric, schneider-electric.com

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FEATURES & BENEFITS • Tape is adhered to the sheath (allows tape and sheath to be removed simultaneously) • Superior earth continuity (pressured sheath allows better contact of tape and CPC) • Enhanced resistance to cable kinks (subsequently protecting cables performance) • Extremely robust/durable design (pressured sheath leaves fewer gaps within cable) • Smaller overall diameter (pressured sheath results in more compact cable) • Prevents transmission of smoke and dangerous gases through the cable (Due to tightly pressured sheath resulting in minimal air gaps within the cable) • Soft-skinned fire performance cables CONDUCTOR: Plain annealed copper class 1 or 2 to BS EN 60228 INSULATION: Silicone rubber type EI2 to BS EN 50363-1 SCREEN: Single aluminium/co-polymer screen in direct contact with tinned annealed copper CPC. Providing excellent earthing characteristics SHEATH: Thermoplastic LSNH type LTS 3 to BS 7655-6.1 CURRENT RATING: For ratings refer to table 4D2 of BS7671 IEE Wiring Regulations 17th Edition.

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CONTACT DETAILS Moss Electrical Co. Ltd Maxmor House Sandpit Road Dartford DA1 5BU

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Untitled-17 1

Certificate No 338c/02

24/05/2018 16:53

ENERGY MANAGEMENT

SPECIAL FEATURE

MORE POWER TO YOU Dr. Alex Mardapittas, CEO of energy storage and voltage optimisation brand Powerstar, discusses how energy storage can be used to boost supply security and save money.

T

he UK is set to transition from its existing centralised energy network to a much cleaner, decentralised one; a necessary requirement with the ongoing ‘electrification’ of heat and transport set to inflict a continuous increase of demand on the grid, which, without significant infrastructure investment, will be unable to cope with the rise in electricity demand.

In order to keep the lights on and deliver the required demand, the National Grid will need to be supported by the flexible use of energy from businesses which are capable of generating and distributing energy. One technology that can enable businesses to achieve this is energy storage, which allows users to store energy for use when most beneficial.

By allowing ultimate flexibility to business users and electricity grid operators, it enables the evolution from the traditional model of electricity provision to a future smart system of integrated supply and consumption, resulting in lower energy costs, greater security of supply, and the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Storing the future, supporting the network

“In addition to the money saving capabilities that energy storage can provide, it can also be used to make money.”

Battery-based energy storage offers the ability to charge batteries during cheaper off/mid-peak periods, and store the energy for use at a later time, such as during peak periods when the cost of electricity is considerably more expensive.

This allows companies to save money on their electricity bills, in addition to helping balance the grid by supplying, ramping up or minimising load by using stored energy at peak periods.

Energy storage solutions allow endusers to provide balancing services to the grid, which they use as a reserve to ensure that supply meets demand as the requirements fluctuate. This enables the grid to stay within its operational boundaries and allows the end-user to receive financial rewards for supporting the grid in this way.

In addition to the money saving capabilities that energy storage can provide through increased energy resilience and avoiding peak periods, it can also be used to make money. This is through a process known as Demand Side Response (DSR) which the National Grid uses to provide financial rewards to companies that can support it by supplying energy when

demand increases, temporarily reducing demand during peak periods or increasing their consumption when the grid has excess supply. The financial rewards incentivise the flexible and intelligent use of energy from end-users through intelligent energy storage assets that can be connected to the grid.

Another function of DSR which provides new revenue opportunities for businesses is energy arbitrage. This is the process of the end-user storing energy generated during off/mid-peak periods and selling energy back to the grid for a profit during peak periods when demand, and therefore price, is higher.

Beyond the batteries Despite the aforementioned benefits that battery-based energy storage can offer, an enhanced business case can be built when multi-technology, leading-edge solutions, such as Powerstar VIRTUE, are taken into account. Such solutions have the ability to offer a variety of additional tangible benefits including energy optimisation through voltage regulation, and improvements to supply quality and supply resilience through full Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) capabilities. The latter in particular is of growing interest as it can provide a significant boost to an

June 2018 | 37

Energy Management – Powerstar.indd 37

24/05/2018 19:11

SPECIAL FEATURE

ENERGY MANAGEMENT

Funding flexibility

“UPS can negate energyrelated failures such as blackouts or brownouts.”

Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) capabilities can boost the security of supply

organisation’s security of supply. This is because integrated full UPS capabilities provide support that connects to the load within milliseconds of an energy-related failure, such as a blackout or brownout, being detected. Further to this, the speed and reliability in which full UPS capabilities provide negates the need for additional backup, therefore allowing for streamlining of technology investments.

As UPS has the ability to support the load instantaneously, it can negate energy-related failures such as blackouts

or brownouts. This is becoming increasingly important as a recent report found that energy-related failures can cost a company as much as 17% of its annual revenue. Additionally, there are other non-financial costs that can afflict businesses that do not take measures to secure their supply, which can range from wasted stock and operational failures, through not completing work to reputational damage associated with the interruption of services or the supply chain to customers.

The viability of implementing complete energy storage solutions is increasing as businesses introduce flexible funding options that can allow customers to implement the technology and receive the benefits without investing a significant portion of capital expenditure, therefore minimising the risks inherent in technology investment.

One example of this can be seen through Powerstar, which partnered with energy efficiency project finance experts to deliver a flexible funding option to its customers. Named STaaS or ‘Storage as a Service’, Powerstar provides a fixed payment service for the delivery of its solutions, which provides the customer with the ability to match use with benefits to enable a cash positive position and a de-risking of what can be a sizable investment, whilst enjoying the benefits from the day of installation.

Experienced providers of energy storage systems should deliver a bespoke, concept-to-completion service which ensures the solution is suited to the needs and priorities of the client. They will also be able to provide advice on optimising processes and minimising consumption, whilst creating a solution to suit specific requirements and maximise return on investment and ensuring a future-proof solution is provided.

Powerstar, powerstar.com

NEXT ISSUE

Fire Detection & Safety

Smart Buildings

Insurance

NEXT TIME… In addition to its regular range of news and viewpoints, the July issue of ECN will contain special features relating fire detection and safety, smart buildings and insurance.

The features will include articles and information from major companies, providing a range of information about the latest issues and technological developments affecting the sectors. For electrical contractors, the features will prove to be a valuable reference point for all that is happening within this area.

To make sure that you don’t miss this major opportunity to advertise your products to ECN’s 40,000 readers, call Kelly Byne on 01634 673163 / kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com

Energy Management – Powerstar.indd 38

25/05/2018 11:11

ECN June Issue 18.qxp_Layout 1 16/05/2018 11:55 Page 1

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16/05/2018 12:48

SPECIAL FEATURE

ENERGY MANAGEMENT

WORKING IN HARMONY Martyn Frear at CP Electronics explains how contractors can effectively marry energy management and modular building.

W

e’ve all seen the glaring light of city centre office blocks at night. In places like London, they define the skyline and it is impossible to not notice the impact they have on their surrounding environments.

The Carbon Trust estimates that up to 40% of a building’s electricity use is accounted for by lighting and is not only a huge cost to a company but also to the environment.

Lighting control has proven itself as an ideal way to reduce energy usage in commercial buildings. Commissioning of lighting control systems traditionally takes place at the end of the building process – but what happens when this process itself changes? This is exactly what is happening with the introduction of modular building.

Quick and easy to install and available in high specifications, modular buildings offer a credible solution to alleviate pressures on commercial sectors for office, retail and education spaces.

To complement this new method of construction, there is a growing demand for easy-to-use modular lighting controls, particularly those that can be quick to install, and easy to configure. Contractors who are tasked with these projects will find

a variety of lighting control solutions that can easily accommodate the end-user’s energy management needs and bring down electricity costs.

Traditional vs modular Modular buildings represent a significantly quicker alternative to bricks and mortar structures and are up to 70% quicker to construct compared with traditional forms of construction. They also benefit from being able to be reused and repurposed.

This approach allows for shortened project times and enables less supply chain efficiencies and labour costs. To meet requirements around longevity, functionality and aesthetics, rigid measures are in place to guarantee the overall quality and consistency of the products being installed.

As the push for sustainability and energy efficiency grows, more modular building manufacturers need lighting control solutions to address concerns around functionality, installation and configuration. Compliance with relevant legislation is also necessary.

These sorts of buildings require lighting to be fitted quickly and efficiently to keep the building process speedy.

Smart modular lighting controls fulfil this purpose, and allow the user to control energy usage more simply than before.

Lighting controls can make huge cost reductions in energy use, typically from 30 to 60% in a typical office environment for example. In order to realise these savings though, it is imperative to understand how functions like presence detectors and lighting control systems help control energy management and to help contractors when installing modular buildings.

Plug and play solutions require minimal labour and during the offsite manufacturing process, it offers a real competitive advantage within the modular building sector.

40 | June 2018

Energy Management – CP Electronics.indd 40

24/05/2018 19:13

ENERGY MANAGEMENT

The modular way A practical example of modular lighting is CP Electronics’ Vitesse Plus lighting control system. It is designed to satisfy key legislation around sustainability and saving energy in offices, retail and education spaces.

The Vitesse Plus full 7-channel system features a built-in pre-set configuration menu that allows the installer and enduser to configure the system quickly and intuitively for any location. Using PIR and microwave presence/absence detectors, the system performs graduated dimming control in response to natural light levels as well as corridor hold features.

Therefore, smart modular lighting control is an easy way of managing energy consumption and adapting lighting to the surrounding environments.

SPECIAL FEATURE

By using modular lighting control systems, artificial light can automatically work alongside natural daylight and provide the optimum lighting, no matter the time of day or use of the space. This thereby improves user comfort while reducing energy costs.

Wellbeing at work is a key issue for many employers, so when new spaces are created, particularly if in a modular build, it’s important for contractors to see how their responsibility in the construction aligns with this wellbeing theme.

How bright a room is, and how easily that can be controlled, is essential for a successful experience in that space once it’s been created. Similarly, systems provide energy usage solutions whilst simultaneously being easy to fit and costeffective installation processes.

Changing the norm

Benefits in kind It has been proven that low lighting levels, coinciding with glare and flickering, cause discomfort for employees – impacting productivity and overall wellbeing.

Contractors need to be aware that the use of smart modular lighting controls ensure staff are more comfortable in their working environment and can ultimately reduce the amount of errors made. Research from The Carbon Trust highlights that the amount of errors that employees make is greatly reduced when lighting levels are increased.

The Health and Safety Executive publishes guidance on minimum lighting levels in new construction projects, titled HSG 38: Lighting at Work, and it highlights how important lighting is for employees’ productivity. There are many European Standards that, although not mandatory, provide guidance on how energy should be consumed in places of work Energy management, sustainability and eco-friendly solutions are rapidly becoming the norm in society, while modular buildings are already widely accepted in the construction industry. Contractors can

Modular lighting control can help improve lighting for working environments, as well as saving money

put themselves in the position to win this type of business, and innovative, flexible lighting control solutions are the best way to achieve this.

The proof is in the outcome – daylight sensors have reduced electricity use by up to 60% as part of the ongoing drive to deliver efficient, carbon-friendly building spaces.

CP Electronics, cpelectronics.co.uk

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Energy Management – CP Electronics.indd 41

24/05/2018 19:13

connect with us

Real projects.

Real energy savings.

Products utilised in this project include:

Case study: National College of High Speed Rail Vitesse Plus lighting control system and An-10 wireless controls increase energy efficiency at the new learning space in Doncaster Thousands of engineers will need to be trained at the National College for High Speed Rail in Doncaster, meeting the future requirements of the UK rail sector.

CP Electronics, the leading supplier of lighting controls in the UK, supported the construction of the building at each phase of the development, from design to completion, ensuring that the project was executed correctly, first time round.

“The support from CP Electronics throughout the project was first class. We were particularly impressed with the technical support that was provided to us.”

Nick Richardson, Project Manager, Briggs & Forrester

Vitesse Plus: Standalone lighting control system with built-in pre-set menu for simple commissioning.

An-10: Wireless presence detectors led to reduced wiring and installation time in this project.

www.cpelectronics.co.uk +44 (0)333 900 0671 or comms@cpelectronics.co.uk

17040 CP Electronics Ltd HS2 Advert - ECN.indd 1 Untitled-6 1

19/03/2018 20/03/2018 11:12 14:45

ENERGY MANAGEMENT

SPECIAL FEATURE

THE WONDERS OF WIRELESS Saima Shafi, sales and marketing director at LED Eco Lights, explains how wireless lighting control systems can remove the disruption, cost and maintenance of hard-wired installation.

W

hile the advantages of converting from outdated fluorescent lighting to LED technology are substantial, they become far greater when integrated with an intelligent lighting control system, which delivers the correct amount of light where and when it is needed. When dimmed, LED lighting becomes more energy efficient, and automated systems like daylight harvesting and occupancy sensors can turn on or dim lights according to changes in need, time of day or lighting levels.

Wireless lighting control systems are designed to control lighting without the need for complex wiring systems and provide increased flexibility in the way an area of a building can be used. Instead of positioning switches and sensors where wiring permits, building operators can place controls where they are needed with ease to optimise lighting performance.

Automation ahead Automated lighting networks can radically reduce energy consumption whilst delivering optimal lighting performance where it is needed. Typical savings when combined with LED luminaires are between 60-95%, depending on its application – ranging from commercial to industrial, education to healthcare and even hospitality. In addition to the obvious energy savings, an intelligent lighting system

allows activation of an individual light or groups of lights from one device, sets lights to turn on and off or dim at precise times, and creates customised lighting for a specific task.

A wirelessly connected system eliminates the disruption, cost and maintenance burden associated with hard-wired installations, whilst still allowing full control of the lighting system. The resulting system is at heart simple – yet infinitely scalable to the needs of

Intelligent lighting systems give users more control over how to save energy

June 2018 | 43

Energy Management – LED Eco Lights.indd 43

24/05/2018 19:14

SPECIAL FEATURE

ENERGY MANAGEMENT

Monitoring and maintenance

Smart lighting systems offer users the ability to review energy performance easily

the installation. From a single light fixture to thousands, within the same system, there is no upper limit.

New solutions like Light Brain from LED Eco Lights make lighting networks a breeze to design as well as install and maintain. Software enables users to upload their floorplan – existing or proposed – for quick lighting layout creation via easy-touse ‘drag and drop’ tools. Once installed, the connected system creates a digital network, where luminaires communicate wirelessly, controlled by Android app or web interface, with simple software.

Setting or adjusting the lighting can be achieved without any wiring changes.

Luminaires can be added or replaced, and re-configured at the touch of a button – ideal when refurbishing or adapting internal layouts – and without any expensive re-commissioning.

“Wireless lighting control systems provide increased flexibility in the way an area of a building can be used.”

An extensive status monitoring dashboard provides on-demand reports of the ‘health’ of LED sources and drivers, highlighting any critical failure points that need attention.

For those involved in providing lighting support to sites, for example facilities managers, the solution caters for ‘active’ maintenance support, in addition to delivering ‘reactive’ lighting maintenance solutions quickly and effectively. Neither of these functions require maintenance teams to carry out surveys or make visits to the relevant site.

In addition to its routine maintenance capabilities, an intelligent lighting control system provides automation of routine emergency light testing and maintenance requirements, for example with self-test features for emergency lighting. Without the need to attend site and test individual light fittings, users are alerted to faults as and when they occur. With logging and fault recording functionality, it eliminates the need for manual recording.

Measuring success Reporting on the energy consumption of all connected lighting fixtures allows analysis and measurement of a single site, or all the sites being managed. This makes a wirelessly connected system ideal for reviewing the energy performance of multi-site portfolios. Energy and facilities managers can log in to review data from any site location as little or as often as needed.

A major advance of this integrated solution is that it can be applied to new builds, retrofits, old and new lighting. For example, Light Brain modules are connected during the LED lighting upgrade, saving the time and costs of an additional lighting control installation.

Because the technology is retrofittable, any luminaire and even individual lamps can be replaced with new LED and wireless-enabled luminaires. It can also be integrated with non-LED luminaires to make them smart too. All data can be monitored via the Android app (or remotely via web interface) or downloaded for easy analysis.

The savings can be substantial.

Operating lighting where it is needed – rather than at 100% brightness constantly – not only minimises energy consumption, but also extends lighting lifecycles and reduces maintenance costs.

What is more, a wirelessly connected system qualifies for government schemes, such as the Carbon Trust Green Business Fund. By claiming 100% first-year capital allowance through the Enhanced Capital Allowances Scheme (ECA), installers can offset the cost of a wireless LED lighting control system, LED luminaires, and their installation.

Lighting control systems are an effective way to reduce energy and operating costs.

However, hard-wired systems can be expensive and time consuming to install, particularly in existing buildings, so it’s no wonder that wireless technology continues to gain popularity for building operators.

Light Brain, lightbrain.co.uk

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BLT 244x320.indd 1 Untitled-13 1

23/05/2018 23/05/2018 10:35 16:26

SPECIAL FEATURE

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES & EV INFRASTRUCTURE

THE GREAT CHARGE RATE RACE With electric vehicles capable of going farther than ever before, attention is now turning to their ability to charge faster. Jordan O’Brien, technology journalist at All Things Media Ltd, explores the biggest development in EV charging since the debut of the Tesla Supercharger network.

R

ange anxiety is still a major issue when it comes to the adoption of electric cars, and it’s a problem that doesn’t seem to have a quick fix.

Despite the launch of new cars from the likes of Nissan and General Motors promising ever-increasing range, it seems that consumers are still wary about whether these cars will be able to handle their day-to-day lives. That’s why it’s not just about more range, but about faster and convenient charging.

That’s why one of the biggest issues facing EVs is the wide availability of fast charging infrastructure. There’s currently a huge array of ‘fast chargers’, but only one car manufacturer can offer its customers the ability to stay on the road for hundreds of miles after just a 30-minute break. What’s more, that car manufacturer’s fast chargers are more reliable than other options.

Thankfully, that manufacturer won’t stand alone for much longer, as the major car brands of the world have clubbed together to launch their own fast charging network, and it’s already taking shape in Europe.

Don’t change shopping habits

Out of order

Consumers don’t go to a showroom and ask how far the car will go on a single tank of fuel – they know that even if it was only 200 miles, they’d just stop at a petrol station and refuel in minutes. Electric cars don’t have that luxury. Range is important because few people want to spend a significant length of time waiting for their car to charge, which can vary greatly depending on where they park up.

A common problem cited by EV owners is that upon arriving at charging stations, they can often be offline. This can be a major issue and exacerbates range anxiety, forcing users to budget in additional miles of driving so they can find a replacement charger.

Replacement chargers can often be few and far between, however. There are reportedly just 1,001 ‘rapid’ chargers in the UK offering 43kW or 50+kW of power, with

many of those concentrated around the London area. Head outside of major urban areas, and you might find a distinct lack of fast charging capability, with those in the town of Aberystwyth in Wales having to drive 66 miles, or for almost two hours, in order to take advantage of a rapid charger.

Tesla’s Supercharger network is both reliable and fast

46 | June 2018

CV&EV – Jordan.indd 46

24/05/2018 19:15

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES & EV INFRASTRUCTURE

That’s clearly a major issue, as those who had expected to begin charging at their destination will now have to find another charging location, and if they haven’t budgeted for the extra drive, they may find themselves using either a slower charger, or worse yet, the back of a recovery van.

It’s not always as easy as a slight detour, however. Not all public charging locations have 24-hour access, meaning the journey could be a long one. For those using the public charging station in Thurso for a journey to John o’ Groats, if that charger happens to be down, then it’s a 125-mile one-way journey to the next available fast charger – a range that would be impossible on a full charge in some EVs.

Things Musk get better The problem with many charging locations is the fact that there are so many different companies responsible for the network’s maintenance. The biggest firms have little at stake in the EV market, and often simply run the ‘back office’ rather than owning the charge point itself, absolving them of any responsibility when the charger goes down.

That includes firms like Charge Your Car and Chargemaster.

That’s not the luxury afforded to the likes of Tesla, which is often cited as having one of the most reliable EV charging networks in the business. If Tesla doesn’t maintain its network, then people have less of a reason to buy a Tesla car, something that will seriously affect the firm’s bottom line. In fact, the Tesla Supercharger network is one of the biggest reasons to buy a Tesla over any other electric car.

Thankfully, it seems that other car manufacturers have seen the appalling state of EV charging infrastructure, and have decided to do their part in repairing it. BMW, Daimler, Ford and Volkswagen Group have clubbed together to launch their own charging network, dubbed IONITY. This network has just begun its roll-out in Europe, but it’s the first major rival to Tesla’s Supercharger network.

IONITY has lofty ambitions. It’s hoping to roll-out 400 ultra-fast charging stations across Europe by 2020, and those stations will have around six charging points each. With all the IONITY stakeholders planning major EV launches by 2020, it seems like perfect timing; although there is one major feature of IONITY I haven’t mentioned yet. That’s because IONITY will blow past the Tesla Supercharger network when it comes to charge rate.

Those with a Tesla Model S are able to drive in excess of 300 miles on a single charge, which is more than ample for most journeys, but when it comes to longer trips, the Supercharger network offers an 80% charge in as little as 30 minutes. It’s capable of doing that with a charge rate of 145kW, which pales in comparison to the ultra-fast IONITY network, which promises to deliver a charge rate of 350kW. While it would be fantastic to have 350kW chargers everywhere, IONITY’s 400 ultra-fast European charging stations are still two years off completion. The network will also be tiny in comparison to Tesla’s in 2020, with Tesla ramping up Supercharger deployment over the next few years, with it currently having 400 stations in Europe. The charge rate may also not be an advantage of IONITY for much longer either, as Tesla CEO Elon Musk referred to 350kW as a mere ‘children’s toy’, hinting that the Supercharger V3 network could charge vehicles significantly faster.

“EVs are expected to represent one in six new car sales by 2025, so it’s likely that the technology will keep developing.”

For now, we can rejoice in the new-found competition. Hopefully it will lead to a charge rate race, where both Tesla and IONITY will try and out-do each other in offering everfaster charging for EVs. IONITY promises to be able to charge a Porsche Mission E to 80% in just 15 minutes. Considering the car is anticipated to be capable of over 311 miles, that’s 248 miles on just a 15-minute charge, or 80 miles in just five minutes.

Given Elon Musk’s bullish response, IONITY’s network may not be the fastest for much longer. Tesla has already signalled its desire to bring charging down to five to 10 minutes, and that doesn’t seem entirely out of reach. In fact, StoreDot, an Israeli startup, promises to do just that with its FlashBattery technology; there’s no word on what the technology is capable of in terms of range, however.

EVs are expected to represent one in six new car sales by 2025, so it’s likely that the technology will keep developing. At its current pace, EVs are outpacing ideas that were once designed to make them more convenient to drive long distance. That includes ideas like a ‘battery swap’ system, which would allow drivers to simply drive into a service station, have the battery removed automatically and then drive away with a brand-new fully charged one. That idea has since been dropped, as technology has made it possible for EVs to drive farther and charge faster than ever before. Who’s to say that in 2025, we’re not all driving EVs that can simply charge while driving, allowing us to never stop.

Jordan, jordan@allthingsmedialtd.com

SPECIAL FEATURE

IONITY is the biggest development in EV charging infrastructure since the Tesla Supercharger

The Porsche Mission E will receive around 248 miles of range on a 15 minute charge

Quick fix?

There’s no denying that IONITY’s network will be the most important development in EV charging infrastructure since the launch of Tesla’s Supercharger, but there’s still a long way to go before it solves the issues many electric car drivers face today. Rolling out a charging network is a major investment, and while IONITY has some big names behind it, investment will likely be tied to EV sales.

Tesla has taken the approach to build out its network first, hoping that customers will come. IONITY will be doing the same, although with so many stakeholders, one could imagine a situation where if demand for EVs isn’t there, the network will be abandoned.

Tesla won’t do that, as it’s solely reliant on EVs being a success.

June 2018 | 47

CV&EV – Jordan.indd 47

24/05/2018 19:15

SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

HITTING THE SPOT Bender UK discusses the benefits of its new commercial electric vehicle charge station, the Chargespot Berlin.

B

ender UK is penetrating the electric vehicle (EV) market further with the addition of the Chargespot Berlin, a new and innovative smart commercial electric vehicle charge station.

Chargespot Berlin is manufactured by Ebee, a Bender Group company, based in Berlin. This mode 3 electric vehicle charging station (for public and commercial applications) is a safe, fast charging solution that is designed to mount on streetlight columns, street furniture and walls. It meets all regulatory standards and requirements, including ISO 15118, for a wide range of electric vehicles. It is totally flexible in terms of where it can be sited, how the operator collects payment and has a power rating up to 22kW, although other options are available.

In charge Inside the charge station is a compact Bender integrated charge controller (CC612) launched in 2017, which is sold separately to companies developing their own charge stations. The CC612 incorporates a power supply, contactor, charging socket, IEC 61851 mode 3 commercial charge controller, and remote access for software updates and monitoring. It includes payment options such as employee coded RFID user interface and credit cards. The charge station links to the customer’s billing mechanisms to offer a universal access system, compatible with different bespoke backend software.

“Safety and reliability lies at the heart of the requirement for cost-effective and efficient electrical vehicle charging capabilities. We are delighted to have a compliant charge station that is proven, tested and ready to take to market,” says Lee Slater, business manager at Bender UK. “Prior to this, we have been working with charge station developers providing the CC612 charge controller for

“Safety and reliability lies at the heart of the requirement for costeffective and efficient electrical vehicle charging capabilities.”

incorporation into their own charge solutions. This means the Chargespot Berlin is a technology game-changer for Bender UK. It gives us the ability to offer both a complete solution for local authorities and other commercial enterprises requiring commercial EV charging solutions, alongside the supply of Bender technology to developers and original equipment manufacturers”.

Strong EV offering Collectively, the Ebee Chargespot Berlin and CC612 charge controller adds to Bender’s already strong EV technology portfolio. Bender UK has been highly successful in working with Formula 1, Formula E, electric and hybrid fleet, bus, and vehicle manufacturers supplying insulation monitoring devices to forewarn of developing earth faults in battery systems.

In the UK and Ireland, Bender UK develops market applications and supplies Bender products to a range of sectors that require early notification of electrical faults, cannot afford to lose power, or

demand that the highest level of electrical safety is assured.

Based in Ulverston, South Cumbria, and established in the UK for more than two decades, Bender UK has a team of technical experts, project managers and field service engineers who are highly equipped to provide 24/7 service, technical support 365 days of the year, installation, commissioning and project management services, alongside the day-to-day supply of Bender components.

Lisa Hudson, marketing manager at Bender UK, adds, “The introduction of this new electric vehicle charge station is a natural fit for our business. We can tap into our existing in-house expertise to support the market launch and provide full technical and installation support to those who require it. Our components are already widely used by electric and hybrid vehicle manufacturers to safeguard their vehicles and customers, and this new commercial charging solution further strengthens our position within the electric vehicle sector.”

The Chargespot Berlin is flexible in where it can be sited, how the operator collects payment and has a power rating up to 22kW

Bender UK, bender-uk.com

48 | June 2018

Bender Advertorial.indd 48

24/05/2018 19:16

CHARGESPOT BERLIN Smart Public Charging Solution

 Designed to mount on streetlights, walls and street furniture  Connects easily to customer management systems  ISO 15118 vehicle compliant  Optional interfaces available  Dynamic Load Management Master/Slave ≥ 250 chargespots  Data transfer via GSM, LAN or WLAN  RFID, Mobile App or SMS authorisation or free charging  Customised variants available

EV CHARGE TECHNOLOGY

A BENDER GROUP COMPANY

NEW PRODUCT BENDER UK

Low Mill Business Park, Ulverston, Cumbria, LA12 9EE Tel: 44(0) 1229 480123 email: industrialsales@bender-uk.com Untitled-9 1

23/05/2018 13:01

SPECIAL FEATURE

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES & EV INFRASTRUCTURE

INVESTING IN INFRASTRUCTURE Pierre Jeannes, vice president of operations for Mr. Electric, explains the need to upscale the UK electric charging infrastructure.

E

lectric vehicles (EV) are becoming increasingly popular as both consumers and businesses are looking for new ways to reduce rising fuel bills and become more green, with many regarding them as the future of motoring.

As demand for environmentally friendly options increases and technology develops, we will undoubtedly see a rise in the number of alternatively fuelled vehicles on our roads. It is predicted that EVs will outsell fossil fuel-powered vehicles within two decades as battery prices plunge. The UK is seeing a growing number of electric vehicles on the road – since 2012 the EV stock is doubling year on year.

The registration of new cars hit a 12year high in 2017, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders;

electric vehicles made up a record share of these numbers with more than 47,000 plug-in cars registered over the course of 2017 in the UK. Government grants for alternatively-fuelled vehicles (pure and hybrid electric vehicles) have contributed to the accelerated purchasing of EVs, coupled with a growing trend among environmentally and economicallyminded drivers.

Top priority The drive towards a low carbon economy and EV development has been made a priority by the UK government. It announced the introduction of the Automated and Electric Vehicles Bill to set requirements for the provision of charging points and then pledged over £500m to fund the charging network and provide grants for plug-in-hybrids (Autumn 2017 Budget). The government also stated that it

would ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2040.

The industry is also showing commitment to this market and has demonstrated an understanding of how electric vehicles have the ability to revolutionise travel – making the roads quieter, the air cleaner, and creating a more pleasant environment. Many of the top manufacturers are now offering a number of EVs as part of their model range.

Volvo, for example, is leading the way with their declaration to only manufacture electric or hybrid vehicles from 2019; while Volkswagen is planning to invest some US$12bn by 2025 to develop and manufacture electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. BP and Shell service stations are planning to install charge points across the UK, and Southern Rail has begun an upgrade project of its free-to-use EV charging point network, installing them at key stations.

50 | June 2018

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COMMERCIAL VEHICLES & EV INFRASTRUCTURE

SPECIAL FEATURE

of charger types has also changed significantly during that time, with a surge in high power (rapid) units being installed across the UK.

Availability is key “If the UK wants to be a world leader in this market, we need to put a charging infrastructure network in place.”

The industry is showing an increasing commitment to the EV market

CV&EV – Mr Electric.indd 51

Importance of infrastructure Having the commitment from the UK government and industry is all very well, but one of the biggest challenges facing the widespread acceptance of EVs in the UK is the current shortage in EV charging infrastructure.

But, can the supply of EV charging infrastructure catch up with the demanding growth of EV demand? If the UK wants to be a world leader in this market, we need to put

a charging infrastructure network in place – including boosting residential power grids, installing smart technologies and investing in workplace and public charging points.

Evidence suggests that the UK network of EV charging points is on the rise. It has increased from a few hundred in 2011 to more than 5,400 charging locations, 9,100 charging devices, and 15,600 connectors

by March 2018, with numbers rising every month (source: Zap Map). The proportion

We believe that the ongoing growth of EV ownership in the UK will be reliant on the wider availability of charging infrastructure for consumers and businesses, particularly as prices come down and technology improves. Our recent collaboration with Rolec EV couldn’t have come at a better time, particularly as the government mounts pressure for us to make more environmentally sound choices about our vehicles.

Together we are now able to provide cost-effective, high-quality and reliable EV charging solutions to both existing and new EV drivers. We have the expertise to help provide the technical products, skills and manpower to install EV charging points, whether that be at home, work or in public access points.

If we are to see a national network of high-powered EV charging stations grow, there needs to be greater public and private investment in developing the necessary technology to roll out the infrastructure needed. As expert electrical installers, our network of electricians are ready now to support those wanting to realise the opportunities in EV charging.

Mr. Electric, mr-electric.co.uk

24/05/2018 19:21

31 Vehicle Tracking

0330 333 4121 Untitled-5 1

www.

trakm8prime.com

sales@trakm8prime.com 17/05/2018 12:16

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES & EV INFRASTRUCTURE

SPECIAL FEATURE

CRAFTING A FUTURE New metal is bound to attract attention at motor shows, but in April, crowds at the CV Show in Birmingham flocked to see the UK debut of the all-electric Volkswagen eCrafter van.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles explains why this is such a big deal.

T

here’s a lot of talk at the moment around electric vehicles and the associated developing infrastructure. And for sure, their popularity is increasing. But with commercial vehicles, the adoption is happening at a slower pace.

The practicalities of size, payload and range need to be considered: a van still has to function well as a van – regardless of what power is turning the wheels.

Data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) shows that sales of alternative-fuelled cars increased in 2017 by nearly 35%, though the overall marketshare of these

vehicles is still less than 5%. The situation in the van market is different, with diesel still dominating around 98% of sales – and there are far fewer electric and alternatively-powered vans available.

Turning tides The eCrafter from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles was unveiled to the public in September 2016. The first test vehicles were handed over to a group of major European customers at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ headquarters in Hannover in December*.

By allowing the vehicle to undergo tests with selected fleet operators, Volkswagen will be able to incorporate

“Sales of alternativefuelled cars increased in 2017 by nearly 35%.”

findings and learnings into the final design and production version of the zeroemission van.

Like the conventionally-fuelled Crafter, the eCrafter was designed in collaboration with customers – in particular those whose vehicles cover between 70 and 100km per day, sometimes involving many starts and stops. These parameters apply to around 85% of the trips made in an urban setting according to analysis of more than 210,000 driving profiles with over 1,500 customers. The eCrafter has been tailored precisely to these typical city operations with its 100kW power output, range of around 160km (99 miles) and top speed limited to 90kph (56mph).

June 2018 | 53

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SPECIAL FEATURE

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES & EV INFRASTRUCTURE

“Legislation will drive the biggest change in any wholescale adoption of a new technology.”

Is the sector ready to embrace an alternative-fuel van?

The eCrafter’s lithium-ion battery is completely integrated into the underbody, meaning the standard vehicle’s entire cargo volume (10.7m3) is fully usable. A maximum payload of between 1.0 and 1.75t is available. At a CCS charging station, the battery can be charged to 80% in just 45 minutes.

From a wallbox, charging time to 100% is around 5.5 hours.

Testing times Four UK customers are taking part in the tests: Gatwick Airport, Heathrow Airport, City of London Corporation and the London Borough of Southwark.

John Hole, fleet manager at Gatwick Airport, says, “We are delighted to be able to test the eCrafter ahead of launch and interested to see how the vehicle performs in everyday conditions and operations.

Sustainable transport is an important focus for Gatwick across our entire business, including alternative-fuelled vans, and it is great to see such innovation in the supply chain.”

Commenting on the vehicle trials, director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Carl zu Dohna says, “I’m really pleased we could show the eCrafter at the CV Show and it proved to be a great opportunity to talk to customers about their future fleet requirements. Our promise to work with all customers and provide them with bespoke mobility solutions to keep them and their businesses moving is at the heart of everything we do. Having the right vehicles, including alternatively-fuelled vans, is essential and we are sure the eCrafter will play an important part in our future model strategy.”

There is little doubt that legislation will drive the biggest change in any wholescale adoption of a new technology. But what’s sure is those choosing vans for their business now will need to make sound decisions based on what will be right for the jobs they need to perform in the future, and where they plan to operate. Stay abreast of research and changes to local and national legislation, because making the wrong decision could be costly for your business’ bottom line.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, volkswagen-vans.co.uk * Initial deliveries in left-hand drive to markets in mainland Europe. UK and right-hand drive introduction currently planned for 2020-1.

We’re here

to talk all things 18th Edition.

Throughout this year and next we will be on hand to talk to you and answer any questions you may have about the 18th edition of the wiring regulations.

Whenever you need us, whether that’s in person at ELEX shows or on the phone with our technical helpline.

We’ll be available to get your queries answered - LIVE! For more info visit hager.co.uk/18thedition

@hageruk

Regs Live A5.indd 1 CV&EV – VW.indd 54

hagerukTV

@hager_uk

14/05/2018 11:43:20 24/05/2018 19:22

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Would you like to advertise in our new Buyers’ Guide section and reach 13,000+ readers each and every month?

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June 2018 | 55

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COMPANY SHOWCASE

SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY

TUNABLE LIGHTING CONTROL FROM CARLO GAVAZZI Carlo Gavazzi has launched its new DALI gateway, the SB2DALIT8230, which supports the possibility to adjust the colour temperature in addition to controlling the light level.

The colour temperature can be adjusted automatically to mimic the circadian rhythm, by changing the LED’s colour temperature from warm white (2,700K) to cool white (6,500K) over the course of the day.

The SB2DALIT8230 is used as part of a Dupline system. Dupline bus wiring topology is completely free, which means the installation can be carried out using the lowest cost route rather than just multi dropping from sensor to sensor.

A simple unscreened two-core bus cable is all that is required to make the Dupline connection; a four-core cable can be used to transmit the power around with the Dupline bus for when you need to power the environmental sensors. CO2 + temperature + humidity information is converted from 0/4-20mA to Dupline locally before being transmitted back over the Dupline network to the controller.

WIN-WIN: WISKA AND WAGO WISKA UK Ltd has teamed up with WAGO to offer customers the COMBI 407 complete with WAGO connectors.

“Time and time again contractors kept commenting that they loved using our COMBI junction boxes with the WAGO connectors,” comments Terry Boswell, WISKA sales office manager.

“So, we decided to offer them just that. WISKA and WAGO together: win-win for everyone.”

Win-win indeed: the COMBI 407 comes with three WAGO 221 3 conductor lever connectors and is available in three junction box colour options (light grey, white and black).

For further information visit wiska.co.uk

For further information visit carlogavazzi.co.uk

CUTTING DOWN ON CORN TO MAXIMISE LED LIGHT OUTPUT Light Efficient Design UK Limited offers professionals a serious alternative to just making do with one-size-fits-all corn lamps. The company’s costeffective, high-performance light output ratio LED HID retrofits are purpose-designed to maximise light output in low bay, floodlight, post top, bollard and high bay fittings.

The Light Efficient Design LED 8032 140W high bay downlight for ultra-high ceilings, for example, replaces up to 400W HIDs with bright high quality 4,000K or 5,700K colour temperature. The 100W LED 8036 high bay replaces 250W HIDs, directing light upwards, sideways and downwards.

All Light Efficient Design retrofit solutions include a five-year warranty, active cooling for a guaranteed minimum 50,000 hour/five-year lifetime, and can be used in enclosed fittings.

Products are fully CE/ROHS tested and LM79 LM80 data compliant to provide users genuine photometry.

Light Efficient Design UK’s Newbury-based warehouse offers prompt delivery to UK/Ireland electrical wholesalers.

WHAT A COMBINATION FROM KLEIN TOOLS Klein Tools is offering two VDE-rated screwdrivers with every pair of combination pliers sold, as part of a great value bundle available at CEF. Designed in Klein’s trademark grey and orange, Klein Tools’ combination pliers offer many features, including a crimping die behind the hinge for better leverage when crimping non-insulated connectors, lugs and terminals, a toothed pipe grip for greater power, and small thumb guards to help prevent hands coming into contact with conductive parts.

1,000V-rated and VDE-certified, the combination pliers feature Klein Tools’ unique three-part insulation with a white underlayer to provide a visual warning to installers if the insulated layer in the handle has been compromised.

In June, the combination pliers are available in a special bundle offer with two insulated screwdrivers – a 75mm long 2.5 CAB tip and an 80mm long PoziDriv No. 1. The screwdrivers are ideal for jobs where installers work close to live electrical circuits.

For further information visit kleintools.co.uk

For further information visit led-llc.com

C-TEC TO SPONSOR TALL BUILDING CONFERENCE AT FIREX Billed as a must-attend event for anyone involved in designing, managing fire risk or firefighting in tall buildings, the three-day Tall Building Conference will take place at London’s ExCeL alongside Firex (June 19-21).

Andy Green, C-TEC’s marketing manager, says, “Delegates will be invited to a networking lunch on our stand on Wednesday to see live demonstrations of Hush2, the latest version of C-TEC’s revolutionary hush button fire alarm solution for flats, apartments, HMOs and other domestic dwellings.”

C-TEC will also be showcasing CAST, its powerful new own-protocol fire detection and alarm system. Created to meet demand for powerful yet cost-effective addressable fire systems, CAST panels are designed to integrate seamlessly with an extensive range of C-TEC-manufactured fire detectors, sounders, call points and interfaces.

Other innovations to look out for include the company’s high-performance range of EN54-23-certified visual alarm devices and an advanced range of hybrid digital power supplies.

For further information visit firex.co.uk

FLEX7 OFFERS MODULAR, PRE-FABRICATED LIGHTING CONNECTION SYSTEM Leaders in lighting connection and control products, flex7 design and manufacture all of its innovative products in the UK. Its wide client base encompasses commercial, education, healthcare, public, high street and transport sectors across the UK. The flex7 System is a fully modular, pre-fabricated lighting connection system that utilises simple plug-in connection.

The plug-in nature of our product range means that there is less requirement for skilled labour on-site, and products can be installed in a fraction of the time that a traditionally wired system could be completed.

All connection boxes in the range are 16A and seven-pole, which means they are compatible with either simple on/off or dimming control. Each connection box has a spare socket on the end so that units can be plugged directly into each other. Our lighting controls simply plug into any outlet on a box.

For further information visit flex7.co.uk

56 | June 2018

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SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY

COMPANY SHOWCASE

TECBLU: SUPPLY AND SUPPORT FOR IOT TECH TO THE TRADE Today, when every home and business is connected to the internet, a new generation of smart entertainment, lighting, heating and security products is gaining popularity. Not only do they offer round-the-clock eco-monitoring and convenient control from mobile apps, they’re usually easy to install: simply connect power, configure Wi-Fi and you’re done. No wonder market growth is unprecedented.

Tecblu is the first online warehouse dedicated to the supply and support of a wide range of these internet-connected (IoT) products to professional electricians and contractors. Our experienced service providers will offer you immediate access to familiar names like Philips Hue, Ring and Honeywell, for lighting, security and heat, as well as high performance WLAN infrastructure from brands such as Ruckus, specialised multi-room AV distribution hardware from global leader WyreStorm, and a generous mix of home cinema system components – complete with online technical support to avoid those dreaded ‘blank screen’ scenarios.

Only Tecblu can dedicate the specialist knowhow that ensures the smooth supply and operation of IoT and AV systems in the homes of your customers, and the exclusive trade-only discounts that support your profitability as well.

Tecblu provides its services throughout the UK, Ireland and Europe.

For more information please contact us at 01256 805665, sales@tecblu.co.uk, and visit tecblu.co.uk

CHILL OUT WITH AIRMASTER FANS & AIRCON UNITS BY C.E.D. The Airmaster heating, ventilation and hygiene range includes a best-selling selection of cooling fans and portable air conditioning units – all at highly competitive prices.

Desk fans operate with three speeds and are available in 9in, 12in and 16in sizes with the 12in also supplied in an antique design. Floor standing fans come in a range of styles from a standard 16in pedestal fan to a tower fan with timer, and an 18in high velocity pedestal fan with stainless steel blades. A 16in three-speed pullcord wall fan completes the fan range.

Portable air conditioning is covered with an 850W 11500 BTU unit and a brand-new dehumidifier, extracting up to 12l of water daily and featuring a detachable 2.5l water tank.

Product quality is complemented by strong four colour display boxes, plus the assurance provided by certification to BS 3456 and BS EN 60335 standards.

WAGO LEVER CONNECTORS NOW UP TO 6MM2 WAGO expands the applications of its compact lever connectors with the updated 221 Series lever connector range.

The new version, rated at 450V and 41A, is suitable for three-phase installations or high-power lighting, signal and HVAC systems in commercial buildings. It is also used for wiring high-powered appliances in residential properties such as cookers and showers.

The 6mm² version now accommodates solid, stranded and fine-stranded conductors from 0.5mm2 up to 6mm2.

The 6 mm2 version utilises the same cage clamp spring pressure technology found in all WAGO lever connectors, and is available in 2-, 3- and 5- conductor variants.

The 221 range provides a quick, safe alternative to screw terminals. No screwdriver is required, allowing wiring to be installed up to 50% faster, with much less physical effort compared to screws. Installers can save time on wiring, freeing up labour to concentrate on other tasks.

For further information visit wago.com/gb

For further information, call 0208 503 8500 or visit ced-elec.co.uk

BEHA-AMPROBE PROINSTALL-75-UK MULTIFUNCTION OFFER Until June 30 2018, Beha-Amprobe is offering a complete set of Light-Check adapters free to purchasers of a ProInstall-75-UK multifunction installation tester. They are available together as a Proinstall-UK kit (order no: 4980688) for fast, easy testing.

The ProInstall-75 is the perfect installation testing tool for verifying the safety of electrical installations in domestic, commercial, and industrial applications. The five Light-Check adapters offer safe testing of all standard light points.

The Beha-Amprobe ProInstall-75 multifunction installation tester ensures that fixed wiring is correctly installed and compliant with IEC 60364, HD 384 requirements and all relevant local standards, including BS 7671 17th Edition wiring regulations.

The Beha-Amprobe ProInstall-75-UK features a dual display, and offers advanced loop testing which prevents RCDs from tripping, and a fast high-current loop test for circuits with no RCDs. With CAT III 500V / CAT IV 300V safety ratings, the ProInstall-75-UK auto discharge feature also protects the user by allowing fast and safe discharges of electrical energy in capacitive circuits.

SCOLMORE ADDS ESSENTIAL FIRE-RATED LED DOWNLIGHT TO INCEPTOR RANGE New from Scolmore is the Inceptor Pico FG – a fire-rated fixed integrated LED downlight which offers a cost-effective LED solution whilst producing an excellent light output.

As well as a fire rating of 30, 60 and 90 minutes, Pico FG has a number of additional benefits. It is supplied with a pre-attached fly lead rather than terminals to make installation quick and easy, thus saving time on the job by the installer.

Its 50mm profile makes the fitting ideal where the void depth is limited and it has an adaptable cut-out to fit apertures of between 70mm and 75mm in diameter. The height of the spring brackets has been increased to allow the product to be installed in ceiling thicknesses of 36mm.

The fitting is IP65 rated and, with an energy rating of A+ and an L70 LED lifetime of 20,000 hours, it requires zero maintenance and offers low energy consumption for the lifetime of the product.

For further information visit scolmore.com

For further information visit beha-amprobe.com

June 2018 | 57

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COMPANY SHOWCASE

SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY

ZUMTOBEL CELEBRATES THREE DECADES OF MELLOW LIGHT Zumtobel’s Mellow Light fitting is celebrating its 30th year of production, still in as much demand today as it was back in 1988.

Mellow Light’s initial design included a square recessed fitting with two concave white metal reflectors utilising a compact fluorescent lamp and covered with a perforated plate.

The Mellow Light concept has evolved over the years to provide perfectly dispersed LED points that continue to provide a well-balanced illumination of work space that helps prevent glare and the so-called ‘cave effect’. Today’s Mellow Light supports the human biorhythm, controlling the spectrum of light emitted to mimic the cycle of natural light and help provide the right type of light at the right time of day.

Mellow Light provides dynamic colours of 3,000K to 6,000K, and the lenticular optic offers glare suppression with up to 3,500 lumens, with a homogeneous appearance. With a shielded lumen package of up to 4,800 lumens, the crystal optic is ideal for working areas that require more than 500 lux.

GRAPHITE GREY FIRE PANELS FROM ESP ESP has relaunched its range of MAGfire addressable fire panels with a new and improved design and the addition of a model featuring a graphite grey colour for the housing.

The MAGPRO16 offers 16 zones with one to two loops and a maximum of 250 devices per loop. It is networkable up to 32 panels, has a memory log capacity of 10,000 events and features a class change function. It incorporates a 4x40 character LCD display, free programming software and a micro USB port for PC connection.

The MAGPRO96 offers 96 zones with one to four loops and a maximum of 250 devices per loop. It is networkable up to 32 panels and has a memory log capacity of 10,000 events. It features a 320x 240 pixel touch screen display, free programming software and a micro USB port for PC connection.

Both the MAGPRO16 and MAGPRO96 addressable fire panels are certified to EN54–2/4.

For further information visit espuk.com

For further information visit zumtobel.co.uk

PHOEBE LED’S ATLAS MINI RANGE NOW IN ALL WHITE The popular Atlas Mini LED floodlight family has been extended to include white powder-coated fittings that will blend seamlessly with the surrounding architecture, particularly uPVC windows.

The perfect replacement for inefficient halogen floodlights, the Atlas Mini luminaire has a sleek, slimline profile that gives the unit an unobtrusive appearance. The casing is lightweight yet durable with a die-cast aluminium construction and an IP66 rating.

The LED floodlight is available in 10W, 20W, 30W and 50W variants with the option of the fitting with or without an integrated PIR sensor. The integrated IP66-rated PIR sensor allows activation only when the unit detects presence and the sensor has an adjustable detection range of 5-12m, with additional function settings for control of light hold, lux levels and sensitivity.

Atlas Mini has a 35,000 hour life with a colour temperature of 4,000K cool white.

BLUETOOTH NETWORK CONTROLS FROM DANLERS DANLERS’ new range of ‘Casambi-enabled’ occupancy detectors use Bluetooth Low Energy communication to control lighting without the need for any wiring between the controls and the luminaires.

Any number of Casambi-enabled luminaires and controls in a building will automatically form a mesh network, and the Casambi app can be used to quickly and simply set up any required control system.

This has major advantages in cost, ease of installation and flexibility.

Casambi networks are both reliable and secure, and devices can be added or taken away at any time.

They can also be integrated with existing DALI or 1-10VDC systems.

For further information, call 01249 443377, email sales@ danlers.co.uk or visit danlers.co.uk

For further information visit phoebeled.com

A USB WITH A USP FROM CRABTREE The robust shape and composition of Crabtree’s new Metalclad dual USB socketoutlet makes it perfect to fit in a variety of applications, bringing a wider choice of USB socket outlets to the market.

Meeting all relevant product standards, this latest socket outlet from Crabtree, one of Electrium’s leading brands in electrical components, is a 13A two gang switched socket with double pole switching – with two USB ports providing a total of 2.1A. The durable finish of the socket, thanks to its Metalclad features, means it is resistant to premature aging, discolouration and corrosion, keeping the socket looking as fresh as the day it was installed.

Industrial sites such as factories, garages and workshops will benefit from its tough exterior, allowing users to plug in devices safe in the knowledge that its surrounding environment won’t affect its performance.

Installers at educational facilities would also benefit from the advantages provided by the tough of the socket.

WIELAND’S NEW RST MICRO08I3 PROVIDES A WATERTIGHT SOLUTION The new RST MICRO08i3 provides a waterproof option that has been designed for the safe and reliable installation of lighting systems where a high degree of protection from water ingress is required. The RST MICRO system is optimised for the interfaces between voltage or current sources and LED modules, providing the ideal solution for dimming or DMX applications.

Wieland’s RST MICRO08i3 incorporates an integrated water stop with a barrier seal to prevent water ingress. Available in a two or three pole option, and with a diameter of less than 15mm, RST MICRO it the smallest connector currently in the range and perfect for a wide range of applications.

The RST MICRO system comprises connectors, M14 device connectors, pre-assembled conductors and splitters. All of the RST range of connectors has the benefit of screw terminal contacts and mating components that are interlocked by simply snapping the parts together.

For more information visit website wieland.co.uk

For further information, submit a request via: electrium.co.uk/contact-us

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25/05/2018 10:57

p l e h d e d e e n I d n a c i l l o a h r o i c p l s a s I’m an my downward to break

Brian became very depressed and turned been his coping mechanism for all big traumas in his life. Brian’s drinking got so bad that he lost 3.5 stone and his life was left hanging in the balance. The EIC organised and paid for private rehab and family therapy. Without this Brian wouldn’t be alive today. Early intervention is key

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services free to anyone in the industry.

Mental health stigma can be a silent killer, people’s wellbeing. We need to reframe the way that mental illness and mental health is seen by society and the electrical sector.

To us you are NOT just a number You are equally as important and the Employee Assistance Programme is open to everyone.

EIC support services Telephone counselling Rehab support Support for family and friends of alcoholics

You are just a n NOT umber

Access Assistance 0800 652 1618 support@electricalcharity.org

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Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

Don’t be like Brian, seek help now.

Available 7 days a week assistance for virtually any problem or issue you may encounter. Our trained advisors assist everyone with respect and empathy.

11/04/2018 12:41

the little red book FS Cables Cabling Guide Issue 11

DATA CABLES BUS CABLES HOME AUTOMATION HD CABLES FIRE & SECURITY CABLES TELEPHONE CABLES COAXIAL CABLES MARINE GRADE CABLES LSHF CABLES SIGNAL & CONTROL CABLES POWER CABLES RUBBER & CRANE CABLES HIGH TEMPERATURE CABLES SPECIAL MANUFACTURE

Extended to 182 pages and A5 in size, issue 11 of ‘The Little Red Book’ features technical data for over 8,000 cables and connectors.

Stock items are delivered next working-day as standard to most of mainland UK, in standard pack sizes or cut to the length required.

GLANDS

If the cable you need is not listed we can also manufacture cables to meet your specification, often with short lead times and low minimum order quantities.

TECHNICAL TABLES COLOUR CODES

Please contact us for your free copy or call and speak to a member of the FS Cables team.

www.fscables.com/littleredbook

flexible and specialist cables Tel: 01727 840 841 Untitled-11 1

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sales@fscables.com 17/05/2018 16:00