FARNBOROUGH INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION CENTRE
APRIL 21-22
www.eiliveshow.com
VOLUME 39 NO. 10 • OCTOBER 2019
SPECIAL FEATURE: SMART LIGHTING & LIGHTING CONTROL
28
ELECTRICALCONTRACTINGNEWS.COM
SPECIAL FEATURE: CABLING
64
COMPETITION: WIN AN APPLE IPAD
62
ELECTRICFIX IS THE COMPLETE SOLUTION FOR ELECTRICIANS Part of the Screwfix brand, Electricfix has delivered quality tools to electricans for the past decade. In addition to an increasingly wide range of products, account holders also benefit from exceptional customer service. Electricfix offers the full solution to electricians across the UK, with 97% of the UK population within a 30-minute drive of a store. The breadth of availability makes it much more than convenience for electricians, with the products they need now and the products they’ll need later. Offering a range of more than 8,000 specialist electrical products, in stock at
more than 650 stores across the UK and Northern Ireland, an Electricfix account provides security, convenience and value for customers. Account holders have access to a dedicated trade counter in Screwfix stores, where staff will be on hand to support alongside a free cup of tea on arrival. Industry leading brands such as
SMART EV CHARGING SOLUTIONS
Schneider, Eaton, Aico and Crabtree are available at preferential prices in as little as a minute with click and collect, and next day delivery to site or store. Beyond an electrician’s everyday needs comes the access to the whole range of omnichannel retailer Screwfix’s 33,000 products, from power tools and hand tools to safety and workwear.
Turn to page 12 for the full story.
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CONTENTS VOLUME 39 NO. 10 • OCTOBER 2019
CONTENTS… Regulars 4 Editorial
Innovation sweeps across the industry.
6 Industry News
Details of Live North, a chance to win an electric van, a new publication from NAPIT, and more.
10 Training
A new apprenticeship partnership for JTL, training hires for Access, and more.
12 Cover Story
Part of the Screwfix brand, Electrifix has delivered quality tools to electricians for the past decade. ECN looks at the solutions on offer.
14 Contract News
Fire protection for a Bristol church, new luminaires for Fortnum & Mason, sustainable housing, and more.
16 Key Issue
Bureau Veritas welcomes the news of an upcoming 18th Edition amended on EV charging.
20 In The Know
Jeff Richardson reveals some of the new ranges available in Aurora’s 2020 catalogue.
22 Project Focus
Hager products have been used to help refurbish a school in Scotland. Dave Strachan explains.
62 Competition
A chance to win an iPad, courtesy of Scolmore Group.
90 Company Showcase
Sponsored content from around the sector.
SPECIAL FEATURES: Smart Lighting & Lighting Control 28 The LED Specialist tackles some of the most frequently asked questions on smart lighting products.
30 Steve Detmer of Lutron looks to the future of smart lighting, and considers the role of wireless control.
32 ECN sheds light on the smart solutions installed at Scolmore’s redesigned visitor centre.
34 Details on how Zano Controls helped with the smart renovation of a stately home.
44 An introduction to the new LED
Features 18 Show Preview
A look ahead to LuxLive 2019, Europe’s largest annual lighting event.
24 EV Charging
ECN analyses the future of EV, and looks at the opportunities it presents to electrical contractors.
26 Connectivity
64 A look at why cables produced by Doncaster Cables offer the perfect combination of quality, safety and authenticity.
66 David Matting of Univolt discusses
48 A look at how Aurora Lighting has
68 Nick Hayler of Marshall Tufflex on
Electronics has offered the ideal solution for a girls’ academy in Bradford.
55 Details on why LED lighting products from Energys Group were ideal for a school in Waltham Forest.
59 UPS
Alex Emms of Kohler explains how data centres can benefit from modular UPS solutions.
Cabling
the issues surrounding cable containment specification.
53 A new lighting system from CP
Re-Cal, a division of the Di-Log group, has been delivering expert calibration for nearly 15 years. ECN looks at the company’s key offerings.
With users of heating systems seeking enhanced control, Heatstore has introduced InteliRad, a new Bluetooth InteliApp.
leasing scheme offered by Goodlight.
provided the perfect smart solutions for a family in Hertforshire.
56 Company Profile
what installers need to know about the new 18th Edition changes.
70 Ideal Networks explains how to
74 Emitex clears up confusion that
surrounds Category 5e and 6 cables.
77 First Call Electrical has saved
thousands on a refurbishment project thanks to Unitrunk.
78 Barry Larcombe of Huber explains
why longer life and low maintenance are key to the future of offshore.
81 Chris Sayers of LabGear looks at how to navigate the latest standards when installing cables into buildings.
maximise the cost-effectiveness of a CCTV installation.
72 With many contractors still working to older regulations, Adrian Fowler of Midfix looks at the implications as it relates to building safety.
36 CMD explains the benefits of its wireless control system, Audacy.
38 Julian Barkes of Bemco looks at
the opportunities arising from the smart lighting revolution.
40 Gavin Williams details why complex
LED lighting control solutions are needed in today’s homes.
Circuit Protection & Switchgear
87 Wylex explains everything you need
82 Chaz Andrews of Doepke looks
from Crabtree offers a major step forward in electrical safety.
at the importance of RCD tests, and highlights some of the key considerations.
to know about AFDD installation.
88 The new Starbreaker Mini AFDD
October 2019 | 3
NEXT TIME…
EDITORIAL
The view that greeted me upon arrival in Abergavenny, Wales – home of Super Rod and it’s Hall of Fame event, which took place on September 12.
Energy Management
Fire, Safety & Security
INNOVATION SWEEPS ACROSS THE INDUSTRY
W
elcome to the October issue of ECN. At 96 pages, we’re proud to present one of our largest ever editions of ECN magazine – and we’ve certainly packed a lot in. We’ve really gone to town with our smart lighting feature, in particular, and have amassed an excellent range of informative articles on all aspects of this increasingly important sector. September was a busy and productive month, and I was pleased to be able to spend a few days over in Abergavenny where I had the pleasure of visiting Super Rod in its picturesque hometown in the Welsh countryside. I spoke with many of the inventors behind the company’s latest products, and discovering the backstories of their creations provided a fascinating level of insight. A full report will appear in next month’s issue. I also paid a visit to this year’s Screwfix Live exhibition over in Farnborough, and thoroughly enjoyed roaming the show halls and seeing some
of the newest products. Stay tuned for further coverage in November, but in the meantime, we’re pleased to feature Screwfix as our cover story this month. Turn to page 12 for a full low-down on its highly-acclaimed Electrifix brand. I’d also like to announce the forthcoming publication of our 2020 ECN Yearbook. An annual guide that serves as the definitive guide to the industry’s most influential players, products and services, this handy, pocked-sized publication will be the ultimate reference guide for all electrical contractors. The ECN Yearbook 2020 will initially be inserted and distributed alongside the January 2020 issue of ECN magazine. If you wish to be involved, please contact Kelly Byne at kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com, who will be more than happy to discuss the available opportunities. I hope you enjoy this bumper issue, and I’ll look forward to meeting you out and about throughout the month!
Wiring Accessories
Simon Rowley, Editor
- Simon
Special Supplement - Lighting
November Issue Advertising deadline: October 25 Editorial deadline: October 21
Published monthly by All Things Media Ltd., Suite 14, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Kent ME5 8UD. Tel: 01634 673163 Fax: 01634 673173
EDITOR: SIMON ROWLEY T: 01634 673163 E: simon@allthingsmedialtd.com
STUDIO MANAGER: BEN BRISTOW T: 01634 673163 E: ben@allthingsmedialtd.com
MANAGING DIRECTOR: DAVID KITCHENER T: 01634 673163 E: david@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. Overseas Subscription Rates: Europe £60.00; Rest of World £70.00 Copyright © 2019, All rights reserved Printed by Pensord, Tram Road, Pontilanfraith, Blackwood, NP12 2YA
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INDUSTRY NEWS
ECA believes vulnerable residents are still at risk The safety of hospital patients, those in care and the residents of high-rise buildings could still be at risk if those who work in higher-risk premises lack the necessary experience-based qualifications and competency, says ECA. In its response to the government’s ‘Building a Safer Future’ consultation, leading trade body ECA has broadly agreed with the proposal for an ‘overarching competence framework’ for those who work on and in higher risk buildings. However, ECA also says that this new framework must reinforce and extend experienced-based qualifications. Without doing so, ECA argues that electrical and other
installations in higher risk residential buildings could pose an unacceptable risk of electrocution and fire. In its response, ECA underlined that for a competence-based qualification system to ensure safety and quality in the higher risk premises, all workers should undertake a suitable apprenticeship as a minimum. Alternative, comparable qualification routes should also be provided for existing, experienced workers. ECA Technical Director, Mike Smith, comments, “ECA fully supports moves to ensure that those who work in higher risk premises are suitably competent to do so, notably in the electrical and wider engineering services workforce. “However, regulated competencebased qualifications, including apprenticeships, are fundamental
to ensuring that installation and maintenance work delivers fire and electrical safety. Without this essential foundation, the residents of high-rise buildings and hospitals will remain at risk.” ECA has also warned against the current reliance, notably in the domestic consumer market, on short, classroom-based courses which are being marketed as offering a fast track into competence. Smith explains, “These short courses seriously undermine the take up of apprenticeships in the industry. Furthermore, their continued existence undermines calls from Dame Judith Hackitt and the Government to ensure that the public is properly protected from fire risks in high rise buildings.” ECA, eca.co.uk
Making an ‘Mpact’ on mental health issues
Heatrae launches ‘Love Your Cylinder’ campaign As installers plumb their way through the busy bathroom season, Heatrae Sadia is launching a Love Your Cylinder campaign, starting with an online quiz which seeks to address some of the common misconceptions surrounding hot water cylinders. Bathroom renovation season is unsurprisingly a busy period for installers and according to recent research from Safestore, boilers and bathrooms bring the biggest boost to a home’s value. This presents a prime opportunity to encourage homeowners to complement their new bathroom by upgrading their hot water system. Andy Workman, Sales Director at Baxi Heating UK, comments, “In order to confidently answer any questions that customers might have, installers need to make sure they know the ins and outs of all things cylinder. We’ve noticed a few misconceptions that come up time and again, such as the idea that they are only suitable for large premises, or that they don’t need to
6 | October 2019
be serviced. “We want to help installers make those extra sales, which is why we’ve created this online quiz. We know that they’re busy, so we want to help them quickly identify potential gaps in their knowledge, and improve their overall capabilities to upsell bathroom renovations with a new hot water cylinder.” By taking part in the quiz, installers will not only increase their understanding of cylinders, but also stand the chance to win a prize. All entrants will be in with the chance of winning a £50 Amazon voucher, and the person who answers the most correct questions in the quickest time will win a Megaflo cylinder. It forms part of a wider Love Your Cylinder campaign, which will provide installation tips, tutorial videos, and the opportunity for installers to share their best projects. To take Heatrae Sadia’s Love Your Cylinder online quiz, visit www.heatraesadia.com/quiz Heatrae Sadia, heatraesadia.com
Building services specialist, Mpact Group, is continuing its campaign to tackle the ‘hidden secret’ of mental health problems in the construction sector with an in-house training course that has already led to direct intervention for one member of staff potentially at risk. About a dozen employees, ranging from site and office staff to managers and directors, recently took part in a programme run by the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH) to help recognise the signs of poor mental health. Coached in techniques on how to discard the stigmas attached to mental health problems, participants were also advised on best listening techniques and what actions to take if a colleague is in distress. Martin Robertson, Health and Safety Manager at Loanhead-based Mpact Group, said the course has paved the way for further constructive conversations in the office about the issues surrounding mental health. At the same time, directors have taken ownership of the drive to raise awareness. He comments, “I have also observed at least
one overt example of a site operative noticing that his colleague had a potential issue. This operative then took appropriate action by taking the time to ask if he could help, listening to what his colleague had to say, and then advising him to go home – this was then reported to me afterwards.” The Electrical Industries Charity estimates that more than a quarter of a million people in that sector alone are suffering from mental health concerns. But alarmingly, the charity also calculates that 95% of these people often lie about how they are feeling. Robertson says the atmosphere of the construction workplace – which remains maledominated – does not encourage communication on the subject. That is why the expanding firm has brought in SAMH to help with the identification of potential problems among the electricians, plumbers and joiners that make up MPACT’s 65-strong workforce. Further courses are planned to involve more staff at Mpact, and plans are also in place to develop the training to a deeper level with some management personnel. Mpact, mpactgroup.co.uk
INDUSTRY NEWS NICEIC and Elecsa unveil details for Live North NICEIC and Elecsa are making their way back to Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool for this year’s Live North. Electric vehicle advocate, Roger Atkins, is the keynote speaker for this year’s event, which takes place on Thursday, November 21. After decades of working with combustion engines, Atkins changed tack 12 years ago to become an EV advocate. He runs the ‘Electrical Vehicles Outlook’ Consultancy and also shares an EV narrative as a ‘Top Voice’ on LinkedIn with over 250,000 followers. He will start the day off with a session on electrical vehicles and explain how this rapidly growing sector, combined with the changes in the automotive market, can provide a lucrative business opportunity for electrical contractors. Kevan Parker, Managing Director for NICEIC and Elecsa, says, “With over 30 years in the automotive industry, and 12 of them being an advocate for electric vehicles, Roger is the perfect keynote speaker for this year’s Live North event. His passion and enthusiasm will
inspire our guests and make them aware of the wealth of opportunities available in this rapidly growing sector. We are delighted to have him at this year’s show.” Darren Staniforth, Jake Green and other NICEIC and Elecsa technical experts will also be on hand to provide an overview of the latest changes within the industry. This year’s event will also include a focus on future technology, including EV charging, DC battery storage, and more. Live North is a CPD accredited event, meaning that attendees can use learnings from the day as part of their ongoing professional development. Attendees will also be able to chat with representatives from some of the biggest names in the industry in a packed exhibition area. Delegates will be able to access some great discounts from suppliers and sponsors, including Bosch, ESP, Scolmore and many more. Tickets cost £29 plus VAT for NICEIC, Elecsa and ECA contractors, and £49 plus VAT for non-registered persons. Apprentice passes are available free of charge. For more information, visit www.niceic-elecsalive.com NICEIC, niceic.com Elecsa, elecsa.co.uk
Regulation consultation welcomed NICEIC recommends contractor by industry figures for hit ITV show Senior industry figures have welcomed the Scottish Government’s pledge to publish a consultation on the regulation of electricians – but have also urged them to make it happen soon. The announcement in the 2019-20 Programme for Government was accompanied by an assurance from Holyrood that it would launch an awareness campaign to make it easier for consumers to find qualified electricians. The move was immediately endorsed by Select, the electrotechnical trade association, NICEIC and the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB). Alan Wilson, Managing Director of Select, says, “This is very welcome news and another important step forward in protecting the safety of people and businesses who use the services of an electrician. The consultation will allow interested parties to express their view on our wish to ensure that only those who are appropriately qualified to do so are allowed to carry out electrical work in people’s homes.” Kevan Parker, Managing Director of NICEIC, adds, “This announcement adds further momentum to our commitment to improve consumer safety and protection. NICEIC has led the way in informing householders about the need to use a registered electrician. We welcome the Scottish Government support to raise awareness on this matter and look forward to working with them to make finding a registered electrician easier.” Fiona Harper, The Secretary of the SJIB, adds, “This announcement is another step on the road to protecting the reputation of properly qualified electricians, both now and for the next generation. Ensuring that skills, qualifications and competence are mandatory for all electrical work in Scotland will underpin the future of our industry and help raise the bar across our profession as a whole.” The announcement is the latest milestone in a long-running joint campaign for recognition of electrician as a profession.
An NICEIC registered contractor came to the rescue recently to help out with a couple of projects for the ITV show, Love Your Garden. The producers of the show initially needed an electrical contractor to help with a garden revamp for an elderly war veteran in Derbyshire. Dale Montague Electrical, based in Chesterfield, answered the call, and was only too happy to go out and get the job finished. The company made such a good impression that it was called back to help out with another project in Nottingham – this time helping a couple coping with a disability. Managing Director of Dale Montague Electrical, Rebekah Tucker, says, “We get a few emergency calls, but this one was a little bit different. It took us a bit by surprise, but when we found out more about what was involved, we were only too happy to help out.” The Love Your Garden programme sees a team of experts transform gardens for people in need. The team from Dale
Montague Electrical were asked to provide power, sockets and lights to a new outbuilding on both builds, whist ensuring the work carried out by the entire team was done so safely and in accordance with the appropriate regulations. The work generally took one to two days to complete. Managing Director and Head Electrician, Dale Montague, comments, “The job itself was nothing too difficult, but obviously with the camera crew on site, there did feel a bit of extra pressure to make sure it was all working okay. Thankfully it did.” Dale Montague Electrical is an NICEIC approved contractor. It carries out a wide range of electrical services in the domestic, commercial, industrial and electrical vehicle charging sectors around the city and surrounding areas. The new series of Love Your Garden started on ITV on August 27 and runs for 10 episodes. NICEIC worked with the producers of the show to provide registered electrical contractors for each project across the UK. NICEIC, niceic.com
Select, select.org.uk
October 2019 | 7
INDUSTRY NEWS Win an electric van and charging point with Schneider Schneider Electric has teamed up with Rexel to offer customers the chance to win an electric van and charging point, worth £30,000. To enter the competition, electricians simply have to spend £50 on any Schneider Electric products at Rexel. Products on
offer include the Easy9, Acti9 Isobar P, PowerPact 4 and ikQ circuit breakers. Additionally, with every £50 spent, entrants will be re-entered into the competition and earn another chance to win the prize. Since 2015, the number of ultra-low emission vehicles has quadrupled. As the market continues its rapid growth, there is growing expectation that electricians not only understand the technology, but invest it in. The competition aims to reward
New website for Trade Skills 4U Trade Skills 4U, the electrical training company, has launched a brand-new website. The new website allows visitors to browse the widest range of electrical training courses and qualifications in the UK. It has been designed to help users find the right course to either
a customer with not simply an efficient model of transport, but also a means to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. The competition will close on November 30, with the prize winner being announced on December 6. Tim Barber, Distribution Programme Marketing Manager at Schneider Electric, comments, “We are delighted we can offer our customers the chance to win an
get qualified to pursue a successful career in the electrical industry, or for existing electricians to upskill, allowing them to offer additional services to their customers and thus futureproofing their earning potential. This new website redesign has been created specifically with the user experience in mind, and is fully responsive across all devices with many improved features to help visitors quickly and easily navigate the site.
amazing prize. Transport is a significant expenditure for electricians across the country. Being able to help with that cost, while promoting sustainability, is something we’re very proud to be part of.” Schneider Electric, se.com/uk Rexel, rexel.co.uk
These include an easy course search function, a blog and news section, a company bespoke training section, reviews and feedback, centre location pages with interactive videos and maps, allowing visitors to take a sneak preview at their state-of-the-art training facilities, and more. Trade Skills 4U, tradeskills4u.co.uk
Introducing NAPIT’s new publication, On-site Solutions NAPIT has announced the release of a brand-new publication, titled On-site Solutions - Practical Solutions to Electrical Installations in accordance with BS 7671:2018. NAPIT’s publications and technical team have been working hard writing a new guide which provides practical and useful solutions for a number of different installation types, and it seeks to give electrical contractors the knowledge they need to comply with the requirements of BS 7671: 2018 (18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations.) Covering Parts 1 to 7 of BS 7671, the new guide includes useful solutions for: electric vehicle charging installations, surge protection devices, smart home installations, outbuildings, RCD selection, consumer unit considerations, selection of equipment, designing circuits, safe isolation of electrical supplies, inspection, testing and certification and documentation. On-site Solutions also covers the main requirements of the Building Regulations associated with electrical installation work in England and Wales, covering relevant health and safety legislation. NAPIT’s Group Chief Executive, Mike Andrews, says, “On-site Solutions has been developed by NAPIT’s senior technical team with contributions from a range of cooperating individuals and organisations who are professionals/experts in their field; ensuring it’s one of the most useful and trustworthy guides available, and a must-have for all electrical contractors”. NAPIT members can pre-order a copy for just £19.50, while non-members can purchase the publication for £21.50. Copies can be pre-ordered at www.napitdirect.co.uk. NAPIT, napit.org.uk
Theft of tools from vans continues The cost of insurance claims for theft of tools from vans have increased by more than half - 55% - in the past year according to analysis by ECIC, the specialist insurer for the building services sector. With recent reports of increased keyless entry vehicle thefts, including vans and the average theft of tools claim reaching £2,685, ECIC is warning contractors that keeping tools in a locked van is not enough to protect them from determined thieves. ECIC’s analysis has also revealed that the claims costs resulting from theft of tools have already surpassed 2018’s total figure. This suggests thieves are specifically targeting higher value tools and making away with a larger haul through brazen measures such as peel and steal, whereby the side of the van is cut open and ransacked. Ian Hollingworth of ECIC comments, “The increase of van thefts is widely recognised, but showing no
signs of abating. It is hugely disruptive to contractors, impacting work commitments, and insurance costs. At ECIC, we always find ways to pay claims, but some contractors may find themselves facing an uphill battle if their insurer feels they have not taken enough precautions to protect their property from theft. “Ideally, tools will be removed from vehicles and stored securely elsewhere over night or between jobs, or within a secure box fixed inside the van. Not only will this reduce the chances of the tools being stolen, but it will also mean insurance covering the tools is not invalidated in the event that a determined thief still manages to get away with the tools.” Hollingworth adds, “Another method that contractors can use to prevent against theft are parking with sliding/rear doors against a wall. While this doesn’t protect against peel and steal in the same way that removing tools can, it does stop thieves opening the vehicle directly.”
MOVERS & SHAKERS Hedwig Maes has taken over as CEO of Tridonic, the lighting technology company of the Zumtobel Group. He succeeds Guido van Tartwijk, and will report directly to Alfred Felder, CEO of Zumtobel Group. Respected engineering professional, Shahid Khan, has joined ECA’s technical team as Technical Manager. He will provide ECA members with insight into developments in areas such as BACS, smart technologies and AI. Scolmore has announced that Barry Taylor has been promoted to the position of Sales Director for its Scotland and Northern Ireland regions. He assumes the new position following a four-year period as National Sales Manager. Mechanical and electrical building services provider, J S Wright, has appointed Stacey Wall as its new Senior Electrical Estimator. Wall has 30 years’ experience in electrical services and will cost the electrical element of M&E projects.
ECIC, ecic.co.uk The Considerate Constructors Scheme has hired Amanda Long as its new Chief Executive. She succeeds Edward Hardy, who held the post since 2009.
8 | October 2019
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TRAINING Access responds to fire and security demand In response to an increasing demand for fire, security and emergency systems apprenticeships in the region, Team Valley based Access Training has added to its training team with the appointment of a senior trainer and industry expert. Access currently has 50 apprentices on its Fire, Security and Emergency Systems apprenticeship, all of whom are working toward their professional qualification whilst gaining paid work experience as young engineers and technicians at firms from across the North East. Malcolm Armstrong, Managing Director of Access Training, explains, “The fire and security sector is a growing industry that plays a vital role in the economy, and as
a result, we are experiencing the highest demand we have ever seen for this course. Adding an engineer, Dave Cash, to our team of trainers means that we can respond to this increased demand, and I’m sure the experience he brings will be a great benefit to our apprentices.” Cash, now a security and alarms sector specialist trainer at Access Training, says, “I’m really pleased to have joined the team and it’s great working with the young people at Access Training. Each apprentice attends our Team Valley training centre one day per week over the three-year duration of the course. The apprentices come from a variety of employers large and small, right across the region.”
The Fire, Security and Emergency Systems Apprenticeship, Level 3 is aimed at those wanting a sustainable career in engineering. It provides the opportunity to develop the skills to install and carry out maintenance on a range of security systems including intruder alarms, CCTV systems,
access control systems, fire detection systems and emergency pull cords. Access Training, accesstraininguk.co.uk
Design and verification funding now available Electricians working for JIB member companies can now gain funding towards the Level 4 Design and Verification of Electrical Installations qualification. Via the JIB’s Skills Development Fund, up to £1,000 can be secured towards the qualification cost. To be eligible for funding, applicants must be directly employed by a JIB member company, a JIB-registered apprentice, or a registered unemployed operative who holds a valid ECS card. In addition to now accepting the design
JTL and Bury College form apprentice partnership National training provider for electrical, plumbing and engineering apprenticeships, JTL, and the chief executives of Bury College have finalised the details of an innovative new apprenticeship partnership and the exciting opportunities the collaboration will bring to the local area. The new partnership will initially focus on the delivery of electrical apprenticeships. Charlie Deane, Bury College Principal and Chief Executive, met with Jon Graham, JTL Chief Executive, to agree the specifics of the provision. They also discussed how the partnership will add value both to individual learners looking to learn a trade, and to Bury employers that are interested in hiring new talent.
10 | October 2019
The partnership will provide young people with the opportunity to develop career-ready skills in the installation, maintenance and repair of electrical services both inside and outside buildings and structures. In turn, local employers will benefit from having access to a homegrown talent pool. Ultimately, this new provision will see both partners work proactively together to help meet the skill needs of employers and also encourage greater local economic prosperity. JTL, jtltraining.com JTL’s Jon Graham (left) with Charlie Deane from Bury College (right)
and verification qualification, the Skills Development Fund has increased its overall annual grant limit from £20,000 to £30,000, meaning even more people can benefit from financial support to upskill. The amount of funding available per grant can be up to 75% of the course fee, with potential support ranging from £750 for Level 3 qualifications to £1,250 for degrees. “With design and verification now on the list of funded qualifications, we hope this will encourage more JIB employees
to upskill and further their career,” says Andy Reakes, JIB Head of Operations, Employment and Skills. “It’s also great news for JIB member companies, who can gain financial support across a wide range of occupations to improve the skills of their employees and assist with their career progression.” JIB, jib.org.uk
Aico partners with the EDA to support apprentices Residential fire and carbon monoxide (CO) alarm specialist, Aico, has announced that its apprentices have commenced the Electrical Distributors’ Association (EDA) Product Knowledge programme, starting with the customer service module. At the end of this module, the apprentices will understand what constitutes great customer service, why getting it right first time is critical, and how to speak to customers with more confidence. The EDA has invested in the development of a brand-new set of 12 distance-learning product knowledge modules. Created for anyone working in the electrotechnical supply chain, the modules are suitable for both new entrants and anyone who wants to improve their product skills. Each module delivers professional training on an electrotechnical subject or product area, with businesses free to choose the number and combination of modules that best suits their team. Aico is an affiliate member of the EDA and Michael Wright, Product Development Manager of Aico, has contributed to the content of the ‘Fire, Safety and Security Systems’ module, which apprentices will be undertaking next. They will also be studying the ‘Introduction to the Principles of Electricity’ and ‘IT and Data Infrastructure’. EDA CEO, Margaret Fitzsimons,
comments, “With more and more products flowing through the supply chain, it is important for businesses to have access to professional training that helps them deliver greater value. “There is no doubt that there is much to be done to promote career opportunities in the electrotechnical sector, but for our sector to attract and retain talent, a bespoke, rigorous and flexible training programme that helps to build skills and knowledge is essential; and that is what the EDA programme is all about.” Aico, aico.uk
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COVER STORY
ELECTRICFIX - HERE WHEN YOU NEED THEM Electricfix, a separate proposition for electrical professionals offered by Screwfix, has been supplying a definitive range of tools for the past decade. Here’s a look at the vast range that ensures electricians get their jobs done.
I
magine a world where you can buy all the hand tools, power tools, workwear and many other products that you require as an electrician alongside all of the essential products to complete your jobs. Now add low fixed trade prices, 650 plus stores open early until late, and click and collect in less than one minute. Screwfix has been operating ‘Electricfix’, its separate proposition for electrical professionals, for over 10 years now. It has one clear mission: to help professional electricians get their jobs done. Electricfix has gone from strength to strength over the last decade, with more trade trusted brands joining the catalogue, extended product ranges and enhanced service levels. Customers still get all the advantages of shopping with the huge omnichannel Screwfix brand. The electricians that have registered with Electricfix enjoy their own dedicated trade counters and teams. Over the years, Screwfix has continually invested in its teams to deliver a level of service that is designed to support electricians to complete jobs of all sizes. As you would expect, an Electricfix account offers customers industry-leading credit facilities, direct to site deliveries, and bulk buy savings – and don’t forget, a free cup of tea whenever customers visit their local trade counter.
Electrical essentials The breadth of electrical essentials Electricfix offers is ever-expanding. Leading industry brands like Schneider, Eaton, Crabtree, Deta, Aico and Megger are catalogue staples that accompany a wide and diverse range. From wiring accessories, glands and cable management to pushbutton controls, cable (installation, SWA and data) three-phase distribution and enclosures. In stock, and available at more than 650 trade counters, electricians can buy single phase circuit protection in populated and unpopulated configurations, with SPDs and AFDDs available for 18th Edition compliance. With access to the top brands,
Electricfix also has regular competitions. For example, until the end of 2019, with any purchase of a populated British General board, there is a chance to win a custom transit van. Wiring accessories are in large supply, with a product portfolio of more than 2,000. Including domestic, modular and grid, Part M, metal clad and weatherproof, Electricfix has the electricians’ go to brands, such as MK and LAP. The market’s first USB socket with one Type A port and one Type C port, which offers up to ten times faster charging, has recently been launched. Alongside the already market-leading 3.1A power USB sockets and Wi-Fi extender sockets that boost signal around the home, it’s a welcome addition to a range of products for modern households. The industrial range available is steadily expanding with three-phase, switch disconnectors and enclosures all available from Eaton, Wylex, Hylec and Chint. There have been recent additions to the range of push button controls and rotary isolators from Eaton and Hylec. 110V, 230V and 415V industrial plugs and sockets from ABB and on-site transformers are available in-store from the UK-based company Carrol & Meynell.
Electric boilers, commercial lighting and tools There’s a growing market of electric boilers, and Electricfix offers two types. The range of Amptec compact electric flow boilers from Heatrae Sadia for both pressurised and open vented systems are suitable underfloor heating applications or standard central heating systems. Strom’s electric boilers are more efficient than gas equivalents,
“Electricfix has gone from strength to strength over the last decade, with more trade trusted brands joining the catalogue, extended product ranges and enhanced service levels.”
Over the years, Screwfix has continually invested in its teams to deliver a level of service that is designed to support electricians to complete jobs of all sizes
as they lose little heat when generating hot water. They are available as single or three-phase system boilers which have no carbon monoxide output. They don’t require a flue and are suitable for use with solar panels, which is important in an increasingly environmentally conscious society. Electricfix has extended its commercial lighting ranges, and now offers a broad range of premium brands, including Aurora, Luceco and Robus. It also has great value in bulk buys from LAP, including 10 packs of integrated downlights and 50 pack GU10s. Alongside the expansive range of electrical products, customers can purchase from the comprehensive range of power tools and hand tools from DeWalt, Milwaukee and CK. Leading showers from Mira, Triton, Aqulisa and exclusive ranges that are suitable for all installations are stocked in all Screwfix stores alongside multimeters, PAT testers, multifunction testers and more from trade-trusted brands.
The exact products that electricians require Chris Wells, the Electrical Category Manager at Screwfix, says, “Our aim at Screwfix is to ensure we offer our busy tradespeople with the right products, at the right place, at the right time. Our Electricfix proposition allows electricians to purchase the products they need to complete their jobs from start to finish. “Our dedicated trade counters for electricians allow us to have a chat over a cup of tea, get to know you face-to-face, and get the industry-leading products you need now and later. We’re open early until late, seven days a week.” Pop in to your local Screwfix store for a chat about opening an Electricfix account or meet members of the Electricfix Team at Elexshow or Sandown Park on November 7-8. Screwfix, screwfix.com
12 | October 2019
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CONTRACT NEWS Renewable solution for Welham Hall project Stiebel Eltron and Pure Renewables have provided two ground-source heat pumps for an award-winning retrofit project at Welham Hall, North Yorkshire. The installation consists of two Stiebel Eltron WPF 13S ground source heat pumps, which provide heating and hot water to the whole property, using a nearby lake as a water source. Since completion, the system has been monitored using Stiebel Eltron’s internet service gateway, which has revealed a seasonal performance coefficient of 3.36. This is in addition to feedback from the customer that the home has been consistently warm despite challenging winter weather, and that hot water has been supplied without disruption. A backup oil boiler was also incorporated into the
Genlec lights up Yorkshire Mechanical and electrical contractor, Genlec, has successfully delivered two major schemes in Yorkshire within weeks, representing a combined value of £8 million. The first is at the Hungate residential scheme in York city centre for Morgan Sindall and its client, Lend Lease, comprising 101 apartments, marking one of the first private residential lettings-only schemes in the UK. Using its team of skilled in-house electricians, the contract was carried out over a 12-month period with Genlec responsible for every aspect of the M&E installation. Achieving all targets and timescales at this £21 million scheme, the project is now handed over, primed and ready for first tenants. In West Yorkshire, a second project has simultaneously reached completion at the University of Huddersfield’s new, state-of-the-art, school of art, design and architecture, the Barbara Hepworth Building. The £30 million scheme, managed by Morgan Sindall, is a fivestorey facility incorporating some 7,500 square foot of floorspace, set alongside the Huddersfield Narrow Canal at Queen Street South. The 11-month M&E contract was valued at £4.3 million and was completed in line with all objectives. Both schemes applied a range of modern facing construction techniques including BIM, which realised ambitions to achieve strong BREEAM ratings. Jonathan Twentyman, Managing Director of Genlec, comments, “It’s fantastic to see two major schemes reach such positive conclusions. Both incredibly diverse projects in terms of design and function, there was close synergy with the broader approach, use of technology, products and applications.” Genlec, genlecltd.co.uk
Stiebel Eltron, stiebel-eltron.co.uk
J S Wright secures contract for the Silk District Building services provider, J S Wright, has secured a contract worth in excess of £17 million to fit out one of London’s biggest residential developments. The Birmingham-based company, which has an office at Trafalgar Square in London, will design and build all the mechanical and electrical services for the first phase of The Silk District in Whitechapel. J S Wright will provide the services for a total of 412 homes and communal areas that make up the first phase of a larger development that will see a total 648 homes being built on the site of a former storage facility, for joint venture partners Mount Anvil and L&Q. The company will provide the services for The Jacquard and The Georgette, two buildings of 20 floors and seven floors respectively that also include a residents’ workspace, cinema room, gym and a 24-hour concierge. The mechanical works will include providing each apartment with low-pressure hot water heating via a mixture of either thermostatically controlled underfloor heating, or radiators fed via a heat interface unit from a combined heat and power system in a central plantroom. The heat interface units will arrive on easy to fit utility cupboards manufactured offsite by J S Wright’s in-house prefabrications department, saving construction time and reducing the number of trades required on-site. The company will also install a boosted cold-water tank room and distribution network to enable all the homes to receive instant domestic hot and cold-water services. In addition, J S Wright will equip both buildings with a mechanical ventilation heat recovery system that will reduce energy costs. The company will also reduce building energy costs by installing solar photovoltaic panels contributing over 150kW, offsetting electricity demand, as well as provide residents with added security by fitting CCTV and an access control system. Completion of work is scheduled for September 2021. J S Wright, jswright.co.uk
14 | October 2019
system with the role of activating in sub-zero temperatures. Throughout operation, this boiler has not been required, demonstrating the unit’s consistent performance in a range of weather conditions. This performance, and the innovative nature of the system’s design and installation, has led to it receiving the technology award at this year’s Architect’s Journal Specification Awards. Judges praised the installation as ‘a really successful solution which isn’t disruptive and comes out with a great result’. Mark McManus, Managing Director of Stiebel Eltron UK, says, “This is a fantastic and innovative project that we’re proud to be a part of. The performance statistics that have been revealed, now that the system has been installed for some time, really demonstrate that heat pumps are the optimum renewable energy product for large properties like this.”
Nittan helps protect city church from fire Nittan Europe, a UK-based manufacturer of conventional and addressable fire detection products and systems, has had its Evolution analogue addressable fire detection system installed into St Nicholas Church in Bristol. The system was supplied and commissioned by Coomber Fire and Security Systems, which is a Nittan elite partner and BAFE SP203-1 and SP101 accredited. Grade II* listed, St Nicholas Church was built in 1769, although the crypt dates back to medieval times. The church has always played an important role in Bristol, whether it be for worship, providing shelter during World War II or, more recently, home to Bristol City Council tourist office and archive. To protect this much-loved building, which was reopened in 2018, a Nittan Evolution analogue addressable fire detection system has been installed throughout. It features 51 devices, including detectors and beam detectors, call points, and high output sounder beacons. Coomber Fire and Security Systems, an independent fire and security installer based in Somerset, chose Nittan for this project based on the reliability and quality of its Evolution range, combined with the increased loop voltage, which allows for longer cable runs. Evolution is Nittan’s advanced, premium fire system. It uses ASIC technology in the sensors and sophisticated detection algorithms, combining extremely reliable fire detection together with a very high degree of protection against unwanted false alarms. Nittan Europe, nittan.co.uk
CONTRACT NEWS
Cornish fruit farm branches out with sustainable housing development A new-build development forming part of an existing fruit farm in Cornwall will soon see more than fruit coming out of the ground, it will also be extracting heat. Coastline Housing’s scheme of 26 affordable houses and flats in the small village of Mitchell near Newquay, will
New lighting control system for UWE Bristol Zumtobel Lighting has supplied a new, efficient lighting solution – which includes a lighting control system and a central battery system – for the new faculty of business and law at the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol). Working to a brief that included energy efficiency, aesthetics, and low maintenance, Zumtobel has created a stylish installation with maximum performance using Mellow Light V, Slotlight infinity, Lincor and Panos evolution luminaires throughout the building. Serving 5,500 students and containing 148 offices over seven floors, the landmark academic building is located in the heart of the new developments on the UWE Bristol
CP Electronics helps Aurora House set new standard for sustainable development With products and support from CP Electronics, Aurora House has become the first building outside London to achieve an outstanding rating from BREEAM. Also designed to LEED Gold Standard, the automated control and energy efficiency provided by the lighting has been a key factor in gaining this recognition. Situated in central Bristol on the Finzels Reach development, Aurora House is a 95,531 square foot office building constructed predominantly of glass. Set around a spectacular full height atrium, it comprises seven floors and a mix of space including open plan offices, stairwells and lift lobbies, as well as corridors, toilets and a double height reception area. With a brief to meet high energy standards and future-proof the building – including audiovisual integration – mechanical and Electrical contractor, CMB engineering, turned to CP Electronics for specialist support in design, specification and installation. James Wallace, Area Sales Manager at CP Electronics, says,
be heated by Cornish-manufactured Kensa Shoebox ground source heat pumps and installed by sister-company Kensa Contracting. George Gillow, Business Development Manager for Kensa Contracting says, “It is a pleasure to be involved in a project which will bring affordable, low carbon heating to local families.” Currently under construction, each home will have its own heat pump, which will be connected to a series of shared borehole ground loops. The Kensa Shoebox can provide low cost heating by either underfloor heating or traditional radiators, in this case the efficient houses will be heated by radiators with a 45°C flow temperature. The low carbon, energy efficient heating system will be eligible for the government’s non-domestic renewable heating
incentive (RHI), which will give the Redruth-based housing association valuable extra income over the next 20 years. The homes are being built by South West building company EBC, based in Newton Abbot, and will be offered to local people for affordable rent and shared ownership. The development was made possible thanks to funding of just over £1 million from Homes England. Amy Jenkin, Development Manager at Coastline Housing, says, “We’re very happy to be working with Kensa to install ground source heating into one of our new build developments for the first time, giving our customers guaranteed access to efficient, sustainable heating.” The development will work in harmony with the continuation of the family run Mitchell Fruit Garden, operating since 1977.
Frenchay Campus. In an installation carried out by Whitehead Building Services, Zumtobel has created a lighting solution similar to that of natural daylight in all the circulation spaces, with its Panos evolution luminaires. The LED downlight range has a colour rendering index of Ra>80, a choice of three luminaire luminous flux packages with 1000lm, 1800lm or 2400lm, and either warm (3000K) or intermediate (4000K) colour temperatures. The unobtrusive Panos evolution disappears into the architecture, providing powerful and efficient illumination. Slotlight infinity lights are also installed in the circulation spaces, creating an excellent, continuous flow of illumination with no shadows, providing an eye catching, streamlined strip of uniform light.
Lincor direct/indirect pendant luminaires illuminate the office spaces and mock court suites. With its slim and unobtrusive design, the Lincor LED luminaire draws an elegant line through the room, and its contemporary minimalism enhances room axes and architectural concepts. Mellow Light V has also been installed in office areas, providing perfectly dispersed LED points that deliver wellbalanced illumination of the workspace, helping to prevent glare and the so-called ‘cave effect’. The result is an eye-catching, contemporary installation with engaging spaces that work in unison with the new, refreshed facility.
“The variety of space involved quite a bit of planning, as well as a wide range of technologies to make the project work. To ensure this flexibility, we put CP’s Vitesse Plus 7 system at the heart of the solution.” Vitesse Plus 7 is a versatile seven-channel system that’s ideally suited for commercial spaces where control, cost and convenience are key requirements. With an integrated PCB computer, the stand-alone lighting control module (LCM) is designed for simple plug-and-play installation and is easy to commission. Combined with PIR detectors, each Vitesse Plus 7 module typically controls between six and nine luminaires within the office areas to provide maximum efficiency by ensuring lights only come on when a workstation is in use. To further reduce energy usage, the detectors also contain graduated daylight dimming technology, and will dim the two rows of lights nearest the windows, when enough natural daylight is present. A wide range of additional CP Electronics products helped to deliver the complete solution.
Kensa Contracting, kensaheatpumps.com
Zumtobel, zumtobel.com
Precision illumination for a unique shopping environment Speirs + Major, a UK lighting design practice, has chosen Reggiani’s Yori Evo Box luminaires for use on the newly refurbished ground floor of a prestigious London department store. Fortnum & Mason is renowned for its exquisite hampers, unique gifts, wines, teas, coffees and much more. In order to capture the quintessentially British spirit of the brand and make it relevant to the modern customer, the efficiency and aesthetics of the Yori precision spotlight have assisted Speirs + Major with producing a high-quality lighting scheme. The flagship store, which has been on the same site at 181 Piccadilly for over 300 years, has been undergoing a multi-millionpound refurbishment which recently saw the transformation of the ground floor space. The specific Fortnum & Mason brief for the lighting was to create a scheme offering the best possible colour rendering along with precision illumination focused solely on the product. Speirs + Major soon identified Reggiani’s
Yori Evo Box luminaire as the ideal tool for the task and offered it to Fortnum & Mason along with two other alternatives. The store itself quickly homed in on the Yori Evo Box as the perfect choice because of its very high CRI and tight, controlled beam angles. More than 300 75mm Yori spotlights equipped with a 24W LED and precision optics were subsequently installed. With precision control being of paramount importance, Speirs + Major aspired to create a balanced lit effect on the target merchandise with no overspill. This they achieved through the informed use of the Yori Evo Box which was supplied with a diffusive lens to gently spread and soften the beam angle where required and a honeycomb louvre to eliminate glare where projection was required over longer distances. The entire scheme was then finely balanced by means of the on-board dimmers so as to achieve total uniformity irrespective of the location of the luminaire on the existing track layout. The sharply-defined spread of light successfully provides visual drama for each individual display gondola. Speirs + Major, speirsandmajor.com Reggiani, reggiani.net
CP Electronics, cpelectronics.co.uk
October 2019 | 15
KEY ISSUE
THE ACCELERATION OF EV CHARGING CONTINUES As the IET plans an upcoming 18th Edition amendment on electric vehicle charging, Bureau Veritas has welcomed the news; believing the imminent changes will be critical to ensuring the faster roll-out of the UK’s charging network for cleaner vehicles.
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t the start of September, the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) announced that it will publish a standalone update to Section 722 of the 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations, regarding electric vehicle charging installations. The amendment to BS 7671:2018, which will be published in early 2020 and implemented immediately, follows significant advances in technology. It is expected to make installing charging points quicker, easier, and cheaper for both installers and consumers. Welcoming the amendment as a ‘positive step forward’ for the industry, Michael Kenyon, Technical Manager at electrical safety expert, Bureau Veritas, believes the update will be vital in helping the UK create one of the largest electric vehicle charging networks in Europe – as latest figures show sales of electric cars rose to their highest level last month. Kenyon comments, “As part of its ‘Road to Zero’ strategy, the government has ambitious targets in place for half of all new cars sold to be ‘ultra-low emission’ by 2030 – and to realistically achieve this requires a world-class charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, which needs to
16 | October 2019
be deployed quickly and cost-effectively.” He continues, “Despite being a fledgling industry, the technology in this area has come on leaps and bounds in just a few short years, and it’s great to see the IET getting ahead of the curve by ensuring the wiring regulations adequately reflect this.” According to Bureau Veritas, the amendment is unlikely to feature any wide sweeping reforms, but instead focus on changes in line with EU regulations as well as evolving practice on the PME supply issues and residual current devices (RCDs).
New rules on charging devices Kenyon continues, “It’s probable the upcoming amendment will set out new rules on emerging integrated EV charging devices that satisfy the restrictions around PME earthing by disconnecting the supply, including the protective conductor, upon detecting an open circuit in the neutral (PEN conductor) for single phase supplies. “It will also look to keep up to speed with European regulations, taking into account harmonised standards in the CENELEC Harmonised Document (HD), as well as providing further changes to the earthing requirements for
EV charging points. It may also provide additional guidance on how RCDs are used in EV chargers. “The good news is that the amendment will be free to download – a move that will no doubt be welcomed by electrical contractors and the industry as it will allow for a swift and low cost implementation. We understand that for many, this will be a new area, often fraught with complexity. That’s why putting a robust strategy in place for the initial inspection and maintenance of new charging installations by an independent appraiser is a good way to ensure they comply with all the relevant standards.” The Draft for Public Comment for Amendment one will be available from October 2019, while in February 2020 the IET will publish the 4th Edition of the Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation. The amendment will be free to view on the IET website. Bureau Veritas offers a range of testing and certification services to support customers in managing compliance around electrical safety for new and existing installations or for specific areas, such as electric vehicle charging points. Bureau Veritas, bureauveritas.co.uk
Complete Solution
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SHOW PREVIEW
LUX LIVE
LUXLIVE 2019 LIGHTS THE WAY FORWARD LuxLive, Europe’s largest annual lighting event, returns on November 13-14, 2019 at the ExCeL London. ECN looks at what visitors can expect. LuxLive is the leading event for anyone who supplies, buys, specifies and designs lighting. As the only showcase specifically dedicated to innovation in lighting, LuxLive is where more than 200 international brands launch new solutions and discuss innovative technologies with an influential audience of over 6,000 specifiers and end-user buyers. Its location in London, a global lighting design hub, and its historical ties with the UK market makes LuxLive a firmly established
date for both suppliers and manufacturers selling into the British market. It also offers a platform for those companies seeking to get involved in international projects via architectural and consulting engineering practices who operate out of the capital. Co-located with LuxLive is lightspace london, the ultimate event for architects and lighting designers to discover inspirational ideas from iconic and new-to-market international brands. Both LuxLive and
lightspace benefit from the interaction between their audiences, maximising their attendance in London to deliver two days of unmissable business generation, networking and learning. The organiser, Clarion Events, has secured over 100 world class industry speakers to deliver cutting-edge sessions packed with inspiration. Smart spaces and wellbeing, emergency lighting, women in lighting and Illuminating city, are just some
of the exciting features visitors can enjoy over two days, completely free of charge. You will be able to meet some world class, industry leading lighting manufacturers, including LEDFlex, Bluetooth, Signify, P4 Fastel, Osram, Recolight, Thorlux, Seoul Semiconductor, Hacel Lighting and LiteIP. Delegates can secure their registration by visiting luxlive.co.uk/ECN
lightspace london Since its launch in 2015, lightspace london, co-located with LuxLive, has been the leading event for lighting designers and architects to find new inspiration and innovation, as well as to collaborate in defining the role light plays in internal and external environments. The lightspace london exhibition curates an exclusive display of what’s new and trending in lighting design. In the lightspace seminar arena, talks by authoritative experts cover awardwinning case studies and outstanding lighting applications.
Top must-visits at LuxLive 2019 Technology giant, Bluetooth, is partnering with LuxLive to become headline sponsor of the main Smart Spaces arena, which is located at the heart of the event on the show floor. This is where the keynote presentations and major panel discussions take place, all focusing on intelligent buildings. Bluetooth is disrupting the lighting control industry with its Bluetooth mesh networking standard, and pushing the boundaries of what
Top keynotes not to be missed
the industry thought could be done with lighting. In this special seminar, speakers will explore these exciting technologies and the innovative applications – both indoor and outdoor – they’re unleashing. The expert, global speakers will explain the tech and the use cases, and look at the best exemplar projects from around the world. So don’t miss out on the unprecedented benefits, savings and insights that are available with today’s smart spaces.
Emergency Lighting At this time of heightened concern about fire safety standards, it’s more important than ever that emergency lighting is fully compliant with all relevant standards and is maintained and tested regularly. This special seminar along with headline sponsor, P4, will bring together the top experts in the field to answer all the key questions: exploring emerging technologies and protocols such as automatic testing, internet-connect systems and stay-put lighting.
Women in Lighting LuxLive and lightspace have teamed up with Women in Lighting to support gender balance in the lighting profession. Founded by Light Collective, the project is a celebratory endeavour that will set out to create an inspirational digital platform for women working in the architectural lighting industry to promote their passion and achievements, narrate their career path and goals, celebrate their work and elevate their profile in the lighting community. Paule Constable, Lighting Designer and winner of four Olivier awards, two Tony Awards and more, will deliver a special keynote to kick-off a Women in Lighting event taking place on November 13 at 4.30pm on the lightspace arena.
18 | October 2019
2019
LUX
LIVE
2019
LUX
LIVE
13-14 November 2019 | ExCeL London
LuxLive is the ultimate event for anyone who designs, supplies, buys, or specifies lighting To register for your free place go to www.luxlive.co.uk
IN THE KNOW
THE SMART CHOICE
Following the Enlite to Aurora rebrand, Jeff Richardson, Director of UK trade at Aurora, reveals some of the new ranges available in its trade 2020 catalogue.
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omeowners and businesses are becoming increasingly smart, savvy, and, above all, energy conscious. With such factors motivating the desire to enhance work and home spaces, Aurora has revealed its new and upgraded product ranges which can be found in its latest trade catalogue.
Smart lighting Aurora’s trade 2020 catalogue launches with new products, enhanced information and support on the comprehensive AOne smart lighting product range. This smart lighting system covers power, lighting and control – all of which are compatible with SmartThings, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
When compared to traditional smart lighting systems, the AOne is both easy to install and cost effective. With over 500 contractors and 200 wholesalers trained to date, the support offered with this range is truly AOne.
Fire rated Aurora is recognised as the UK’s market leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of compliant, reliable, fire rated downlights. Aurora and partner, Staircraft Group, are the first to have a downlight range successfully assessed to demonstrate that the iJoists and downlight combination will satisfy fire safety building regulations for 30 minutes’ fire rating in domestic housing. The new A series is an upgrade of the old Enlite E series that includes additional installer friendly benefits, higher
performance levels, and a new appearance; offering additional reliability and enhanced product features with faster install times.
Commercial Enlite’s comprehensive commercial range has always provided an LED solution for all applications. Upgraded and rebranded under Aurora, the company says it is pleased to announce that a new LED panel and commercial downlight range are now available. These offer TP rating, higher efficacy and longer warranty terms. Aurora’s new backlit panel, BackLite, has been designed without a light guide, removing any risk of panel discolouration. Uniquely lensed LEDs have also been engineered to ensure maximum light output of 100lm/W – while providing cost saving benefits. BackLite has been designed for a wide range of applications, including office,
education and commercial spaces. Aurora’s edge lit panel range, Troffer, and IP65 panels, which were all in the Enlite range are still available under the Aurora brand.
Emergency For the first ever time, Aurora has launched a comprehensive emergency range, which offers installers a full lighting solution when specifying for a lighting project. The range includes bulkheads, twinspots and exit blades (all self-test and manual) and wall mounted exit signs (manual test). Aurora, auroralighting.com
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PROJECT FOCUS
A NEW LEGACY FOR A SCOTTISH SCHOOL Dave Strachan, Sales Engineer at Hager, highlights a recent school refurbishment project in Scotland, where a comprehensive range of Hager solutions has helped to enhance and future-proof the busy school’s electrical and lighting system.
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Classrooms at the Auchterellon Primary School are reaping the rewards of the highly flexible Klik system
broad range of Hager energy distribution, wiring accessories, lighting connection and control systems have been specified for a major refurbishment project at Auchterellon Primary School in Aberdeenshire. Built in 1974, the school’s existing legacy electrical and lighting systems were struggling to keep up with increased demand from users. As a result, the local authority decided to invest in a complete overhaul of the school’s electrical system. Providing education for more than 400 children in the local area, the school’s openplan structure – which means there are no individual classrooms – required a lighting system which was not only fully flexible to individual needs, but also scalable. The school’s bespoke requirements saw the project’s specification engineer specify Hager’s distribution and panel boards, as well as its Klik lighting control system. Now in place after a year-long installation project, school managers have the ability to scale up the new system to match the changing requirements of the school should it expand in the future. One of the primary benefits of the
project has been the highly flexible performance capability of the Klik system, which can adjust to daylight levels to deliver an energy-efficient solution to match the school’s requirements. Fully compatible with all DALI control solutions, Klik functionality allows the school to optimise lighting effects, such as easily dimming light in specific areas for presentations and school-led activities, or ensuring areas are not lit when unoccupied. Control is simple, so that full use of the system is accessible to all staff at the switch of a button. Klik also provided significant installation benefits. Its plug-in and socket connection options mean that luminaires were simply plugged in in seconds without the need for circuit isolation. In addition, Klik’s self-wired plugs now provide a highly adaptable solution whenever the system needs to be altered. This was a significant project for the school and means that its entire energy distribution and lighting control system has been future-proofed. In addition, the project team had to ensure a smooth installation which minimised disruption to the day-today operation of the school. This meant a high degree of forward planning, including weekend working when the 800 amp panel board was installed to ensure no disruption
“The project team had to ensure a smooth installation which minimised disruption to the day-to-day operation of the school” to staff or pupils. The ease of installation and configuration of the Klik system also helped with the work schedules. James Douglas, who represents Aberdeenshire Council, has been impressed with the result of the refurbishment work that was undertaken. He says, “This was an important project for Auchterellon Primary School. It ensures that the essential energy distribution and lighting systems are fully up-to-date and can meet the needs of a busy school going forward.” He continues, “The project was timely and cost-effective, with disruption at the school kept to a minimum. We are also highly confident that the decision to specify Hager products ensures the systems installed will deliver the exact performance needs we require now and in the future.” Hager, hager.co.uk
Klik Klik is a secure lighting and control connection system that provides simultaneous mechanical and electrical connection in one plug-in action. Control solutions are provided utilising Hager wall switching, occupancy sensing, the Klik Lighting Control Module and integrating KNX control products. Luminaires can be plugged in, in seconds, with absolute safety and without circuit isolation. The secure mechanical and electrical connection gives complete confidence in the system’s integrity. Klik 7 provides a fully scalable approach to lighting design and lighting control options including simple absence / presence detection and timing functions via occupancy sensors with no controller required. For more sophisticated lighting control functions, Klik 7 solutions can be designed with Hager’s microprocessor LCM controller, which is integrated in to the Klik 7 marshalling box. Klik 7 also provides an efficient power and control distribution solution, when used with other lighting controllers.
22 | October 2019
THE SINGLE MODULE AFDD HAS LANDED.
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FEATURE
DRIVING THE TRANSITION As electric vehicles continue to grow in popularity, so too does the demand for EV charging points. ECN takes a look at the future of EV and the opportunities it presents to electrical contractors.
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lectric vehicles (EVs) are becoming an increasingly popular choice for transport in the UK. From consumers looking for a way to reduce rising fuel bills, to the growing awareness of climate change and the desire to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the UK is hitting the ground running with its Road to Zero strategy. With the £1.5 billion government investment supporting the transition to zero emissions, what opportunities can the electrical contractor expect from an EV future? And, in order to meet with regulations, what upcoming amendment to BS 7671:2018 should you be aware of?
EVs and government strategy Since 2008, EVs have offered an exciting prospect for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the UK’s largest-emitting sector. Recognising this, the government has set ambitions to ensure almost every car and van in the UK is a zero emission vehicle by 2050. Aware of the targets set out in the Climate Change Act 2008, Transport Secretary, Chris Grayling, emphasises the importance of an efficient EV future, stating, “The transport sector is now the primary source of greenhouse gas emissions in the UK. Therefore, decarbonising the transport sector is essential to meet decarbonisation targets.”
One of the greatest barriers to the growth of the EV market in the UK, however, is the existing charging network – which is currently lacking in both size and geographical coverage. In order to accommodate the rising numbers of EVs and low-polluting vehicles expected to hit the roads in the foreseeable future, the UK needs at least 100,000 EV charging points – a five-fold increase on the current available sum of 20,000. With a long way to go to reach an optimum number of charging points, electrical contractors can take advantage of this huge growth sector by getting up to speed with standards and training.
New IET Regulations At the beginning of September, the IET announced a new amendment to BS 7671:2018. Amendment one, which is due to be published in early 2020, will consist of a standalone update to section 722: Electric Vehicle Charging Installations. The amendment follows advances in technology that were not available when BS 7671:2018 was published; enabling a more practical solution for the installation of charging points. Functionality built directly into charging equipment uses existing technology, but employed in a new way, allowing charging points to be deployed more widely than ever before. The updated section 722 will make installing charging points quicker and easier, and will reduce the cost of installations for
both installers and consumers. Mark Coles, Head of Technical Regulations at the IET, comments, “This update to the IET Wiring Regulations puts the electrical industry at the forefront of driving technological innovation to ensure the installation of practical, safe charging points that are accessible to all.” To learn more about how to install electrical vehicle charging points in compliance with BS 7671, the electrical safety quality and continuity regulations and the new IET code of practice, the NICEIC offers a one-day electrical vehicle charging course. For more information on dates and availability, visit niceic.com.
EV future facts • On-street charging points may not be the only thing electrical contractors need to look out for. As record levels of EVs hit UK roads, England is also set to be the first country to introduce mandatory charge points in all new-build homes. • In April 2019, thanks to a combination of environmental campaigning, lowemission legislation and news of the Tesla Model 3’s arrival, there was a 6% increase in consumer interest in EVs online.
“One of the greatest barriers to the growth of the EV market in the UK, however, is the existing charging network – which is currently lacking in both size and geographical coverage.”
24 | October 2019
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SMART LIGHTING & LIGHTING CONTROL
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October 2019 | 27
SPECIAL FEATURE
SMART LIGHTING & LIGHTING CONTROL
SMARTER CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE FUTURE To help you choose the right smart products for your requirements, The LED Specialist tackles some of the most commonly asked questions. Included is a look at the roles of Wi-Fi and Li-Fi, along with details of the Zigbee smart home system.
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nvesting in some smart light bulbs is an ideal first step to creating a smart home or commercial premises. Smart lighting, especially when coupled with a smart speaker, can be a seamless way to control your home – and make for some very cool experiences. And it’s not just all Philips Hue nowadays, there are plenty of alternatives. There are a plethora of technologies, sizes, shapes, colours and styles on offer, from a huge array of different brands.
Why buy smart lighting?
How do smart bulbs work?
Well, there’s plenty of reasons. Smart bulbs have tonnes of features so you can dim them and turn them on and off with your voice (when paired with Alexa, Google Assistant or Siri). You can group bulbs together to have your whole downstairs, living room or home under a single control; you can also set up routines, so ‘movie time’ turns off the main lights and turns everything else to a warm colour. You can have your porch light turn on when you open the front door (with a sensor). It’s not just impressing your mates with garish colours – this is useful stuff.
If you’re new to smart bulbs, let’s clear up the basics. These devices are actual bulbs that are internet connected. How they connect is another matter. Some work via Wi-Fi, which means you need no extra hardware, whilst others need a hub connected to your router.
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Are they voice activated? Yes, it is now possible to control lights at home, individually, by voice commands. You can use popular smart speakers, such as Amazon Alexa and Apple Home Kit. The
functions include on/off, dimming, colour change, light temperature, and grouping. Smart+ offers an extensive selection of smart lighting products, including modern and highly efficient LED lamps, stylish LED luminaires for indoor use, and one of the largest smart outdoor product portfolios worldwide. If you would prefer to also use a more conventional control, this is also possible. Smart+ is the best of both worlds! Why do so many smart bulbs need a hub? It’s not ideal, but smart bulbs work better when connected to a hub. The presence of a hub means they work using Zigbee
SMART LIGHTING & LIGHTING CONTROL
or Z-Wave, which is a much more stable connection, with a longer range that’s less prone to dropouts than Wi-Fi.
Is there an alternative technology to Wi-Fi?
How do you fit a smart bulb? Every system is different, but you set up the hub and app, and then just screw in your bulb and turn it on at the wall. It should be found within the app. For hubless Wi-Fi bulbs, screw them in and turn them on – your phone will connect to them via Bluetooth and pass on your Wi-Fi details.
Yes. There is Bluetooth mesh, and to explain it, we will use the Ansell Octo system as an example.
Are all smart bulbs expensive? The price is dropping all the time, but yes, they’re more expensive than standard bulbs. We’d advise getting a good deal on a starter kit and then waiting to grab single bulbs in the sales – the big retailers are always discounting. But there’s an alternative. You can get many of the benefits of smart bulbs by changing out for a smart light switch instead. You lose some of the dimming and colour features, but it saves buying 25 smart GU10 bulbs for your kitchen.
Which smart lighting style should I buy? The LED Specialist choice for smart lighting is the LEDvance Smart+ range. You can revolutionise your lighting at home and control your light with your smartphone, and you can choose between many features. Smart+ also offers a large selection of smart lighting products, such as modern and highly efficient LED lamps, stylish LED luminaires for indoor use, and one of the largest smart outdoor product portfolios worldwide. If you want to control your lighting at home simply and comfortably by voice or smartphone, then the Bluetooth version could prove the best solution for you.
What is Octo? Imagine a driveway that illuminates automatically when you return home on a dark evening; kitchen lighting that brightens during food preparation and dims for relaxing meal times; and, bedrooms that are only lit when they are occupied, all controlled via an intuitive, easy to use app on your smart device. All products in the OCTO smart lighting range communicate with each other flawlessly, forming a Bluetooth mesh that enables you to control all OCTO powered devices throughout your home. This technology is not restricted to interior spaces alone. You can also install OCTO devices outside, transforming al-fresco dining with intelligent features that allow you to alter colour temperature and dim brightness to create the perfect atmosphere. What can Octo Do? OCTO has a comprehensive range of features that interact flawlessly with your smart device. Scene Selection. OCTO users can set lighting scenes and animations that can be timed to welcome you home in the evening, wake you up in the morning and even dim for mealtimes or parties. Scenes can be created for a whole range of purposes and are easily customisable.
Gallery Function. OCTO’s Gallery function enables users to control the lighting in any environment from images they have taken. By simply indicating where the luminaires are in each image, users can switch the lights on and off, dim them and change the colour temperature with simple, easy to remember gestures. Security and Sharing. OCTO has a range of security settings that you can tailor to your requirements. Different sharing settings can be set for each network of luminaires with different administrator passwords. Integrations. OCTO can also integrate motion sensors into a network of luminaires, for both interior and exterior environments. These easily commissioned motion sensors can assist in energy saving by only illuminating an area when they detect motion.
What is Li-Fi? Li-Fi is a two-way, high-speed wireless technology similar to Wi-Fi, but it uses light waves instead of radio waves to transmit data. Philips Lighting’s office luminaires enabled with Li-Fi technology provide broadband connection with a speed of 30MB per second (Mb/s) without compromising lighting quality. With 30Mb/s, a user can stream simultaneously several HD quality videos while having video calls. Benefits of Li-Fi Li-Fi offers many benefits over Wi-Fi, as it can be used in places where radio frequencies may interfere with equipment (such as in hospitals), or where Wi-Fi signals cannot reach or are weak (such as
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underground). Other user cases include environments demanding high security; for example, the back office of a financial institution or government service. Li-Fi adds an extra layer of security, as light cannot pass through solid walls and a lineof-sight to the light is needed to access the network. How does Li-Fi work? Each luminaire is equipped with a built-in modem that modulates the light at speeds imperceptible to the human eye. The light is detected by a Li-Fi USB key/dongle plugged into the socket of a laptop or tablet (in the future, such technology will be built into laptops and devices). The Li-Fi USB dongle returns data to the luminaire through an infrared link. With Philips Li-Fi-enabled luminaires, customers get the double benefit of quality, energy-efficient LED light and a highly secure, stable and robust connection; as Li-Fi has 10,000 times the spectrum of Wi-Fi. Why Li-Fi from Philips Lighting? Philips Lighting leads the way in offering seamless handover between light points, meaning that as a user moves from one side of a large office to another, they maintain their connection as one light point hands off to another. The coveragezone provided by Philips Li-Fi-enabled luminaires is also believed to be the widest in the market. The company has Li-Fienabled normal office luminaires that provide quality energy-efficient light. The LED Specialist, theledspecialist.co.uk
ZigBee If you have an existing ZigBee-enabled smart home system, including a smart gateway installed at home, then Smart+ ZigBee products offer a complete range of functions of a smart lighting system with the possibility of the integration into a smart home automation system. Also consider using the latest Bluetooth Mesh standard. Although there are numerous smart lighting products that are Bluetooth compatible, check carefully to see if they also support the latest Mesh technology. The entire Smart+ Bluetooth portfolio is mesh-enabled.
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SPECIAL FEATURE
SMART LIGHTING & LIGHTING CONTROL
HOMES OF THE FUTURE: A REVOLUTION IS COMING A revolution is coming to the smart home of the future. Steve Detmer, Product Manager, Residential Systems at Lutron, looks ahead to the future of smart lighting, and spies wireless control on the horizon.
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ow can we futureproof homes using smart lighting? An excellent question, and not the first (or last) time this will be asked. The growth of smart home technology is being met by the emergence of new and improved wireless control systems. What started as gimmicky entertainment has led to developments that enhance the environment, comfort and security of homeowners. According to a recent report by Statista, smart home product penetration in Europe is expected to grow to 24.6% by 2023, up from 9.3% in 2018. Electrical installers are finding that the increased popularity of modern technologies such as voice assistants, alongside consumers’ and professionals’ growing comfort using wireless products, have increased consumer demand for smart home solutions. “While early smart home devices were aimed at entertaining consumers, the new trend is towards controls that improve comfort and convenience at home,” Steve Detmer, Product Manager, Residential Systems at Lutron tells ECN. “Not only this, but smart home devices can offer homeowners the added bonus of peace of mind with smart security. The technology is also increasingly simple to install and use, and is gradually becoming more affordable. The Statista research shows that the future of the smart home is connected, and there is one technology that will drive this revolution: wireless control.”
Wireless lighting systems with little-to-no cabling are now readily available, Steve Detmer explains
Installing wireless solutions There is certainly a global trend towards wireless communications technologies, as more and more customers ask for comfortable, simple and affordable lighting control solutions. “Often, homeowners are put off installing lighting control systems due to the cost and disruption they assume they will face,” Steve continues. “However, wireless lighting systems with little-to-no cabling are now readily available.” For the installer, there are also additional cost benefits to lighting control, as they need to purchase fewer cables and less containment. Similarly, there is a considerable labour saving with wireless systems which can free up the installers’ time, thus allowing them to complete more jobs in any given day.
Increasing homeowner control As customers get more comfortable using smart technology in their home, lighting control systems can put total control in the hands of the end-user – allowing them to manage and personalise their system. “Homeowners now want the benefits of a professionally installed smart home system, but also the flexibility and power to allow them to make their own changes,” Steve nods. “Smart technology leaves homeowners with the tools to make their own changes to their systems once the engineer has left the building. These include traditional remotes, but we’re also seeing growth in demand for smart home apps. With modern lighting control systems, homeowners can schedule lights and blinds to adjust automatically at set times of the day. These systems track sunrise and sunset times based on location – turning outside lights on or off at the right time, every day.”
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Feeling secure Whether they are at home or away, a major concern for all homeowners is the security of their property, their families and their belongings. “These worries cause anxiety, stress and can even prevent homeowners from enjoying well-earned breaks,” Steve stresses. “An effective and underutilised way of ensuring that their homes remain safe and secure is through smart lighting control.” By introducing a lighting control system, homeowners can remotely access their home. The use of apps means that they can handle issues from anywhere, without the need to pre-programme. Steve says that if the worst was to happen, lighting controls can easily be connected to fire alarms and security systems to ensure that when these go off, house lights go on. “They can even be set up to make the house ‘flash’ when an alarm is triggered, helping to alert those inside or nearby.”
Smart home security for everyone Many homeowners aren’t realising the true potential of smart home technology in terms of safety and security, it’s believed
ECN knows what you’re thinking: surely these solutions only apply to new-builds? Not necessarily. “Actually, they can be retrofitted,” smiles Steve. “Wireless lighting control is now an affordable solution for any home. Safety and security are no longer
for the few – any home on any budget can introduce security features through lighting control. In addition, smart lighting can be integrated with other smart home systems, such as Alexa, Apple HomeKit, HoneyWell, Google Assistant and Sonos for wholehome control. Lighting control systems can also be linked with heating systems, so forgetting to turn off the heating and wasting energy and money can be a thing of the past. “The future of the home is smart and connected,” he asserts. “After all, more than four in 10 adults use smart technology to work the television, while a further one in three often control their music with a gadget. Yet, many aren’t realising the true potential of smart home technology in terms of safety and security.” Recent research from the 2019 smart home survey suggests that only a fifth of adults are looking to update their homes with smart lights, thermostats and security cameras. With more affordable options now available in the market, there has never been a better time to future-proof homes with smart lighting. Lutron, lutron.com
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A SMARTER WAY OF THINKING ECN sheds light on the smart solutions installed at Scolmore’s redesigned visitor centre at its Staffordshire headquarters.
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riginally opened in January 2009, Scolmore’s visitor centre was designed to cater for groups of up to 24 people and act as a facility to showcase the growing range of products to customers, as well as serving as a venue to host internal meetings and presentations. Through continual development and success realised over the past nine years – from a growing customer base to an expanding product range – Scolmore identified a vital requirement to further invest in its visitor centre and showroom facilities.
Shedding light With the aim to accommodate up to 60 guests at any one time, the redesigned facility is double the size of the original space and has been created to host a range of events including product launches and demonstrations, training sessions for customers, as well as corporate and industry events. Representing a huge blank canvas, one of the key considerations for the refurbishment of the visitor centre was the
lighting and, more importantly, the ability to control the lighting – from an energy efficiency point of view, as well as to offer ease and flexibility of control to reflect the variety of lighting functions and scenes required, depending on the particular event or activity taking place. To begin with the vast ceiling space was divided up into nine main sections to allow for banks of lighting to be installed and controlled, with downlights taking up the centre space along the length of the ceiling and spotlights around the edges. This means that various areas of the room can be lit as required, eg the front part with the screen can be dimmed during a presentation with the back area lit for candidates’ comfort. For the lighting, Scolmore opted for the Inceptor Omni fire-rated, integrated LED downlight with pre-wired driver and flow connector, and a total of 40 Omnis were installed for the project. As well as in the ceiling, they were fitted in pairs across the top of the display pods which are used to group the various product ranges together. Flexibility and ease of installation are vital attributes of the Inceptor Omni and key features are an adjustable colour temperature switch – allowing the selection of colour temperatures to suit
the installation; interchangeable fixed and adjustable bezels; and an insulation support clip for use when insulation is present. Helping to attain the quick and easy installation of the lighting products was Scolmore’s Flow lighting management system which was incorporated into the ceiling space. A number of eight-way distribution boxes were used to provide the means to make multiple connections from one box, via a plug and play operation. As well as adding to the speed of installation, it will also assist when any future maintenance testing is required.
Total lighting control When it came to control of the lighting throughout the visitor centre, Scolmore’s Click Smart system provided an ideal solution, offering both simple and flexible installation, and easy programming. Total control of the lighting is achievable via the Click Smart RF touch control panel, as well as on a mobile phone or tablet via the Click Smart App. Having control of the lighting contributes to significant energy saving, with energy only consumed when needed. Installation was simple and flexible. No
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additional cables or wall cuttings were required to install the system as the receivers could be installed behind light fittings or into suitable installation boxes, plus the transmitters are powered by battery, so there was no need for any wiring or additional power supply. The Click Smart controls make it easier to switch and dim wirelessly from preferred locations without the use of switch drops. Each of the pods that houses the various product collections has a dimmer receiver installed, which means the individual pods can be lit up or dimmed as required, for example when a particular range is being showcased during a presentation. Marie Parry, Group Marketing Director at Scolmore, comments, “What this project demonstrates is the ease and relatively inexpensive way we have been able to transform the configuration of the lighting in the visitor centre not just to control when the lights come on and off, but giving us the ability to bring together groups of lighting and incorporate dimming capabilities in any combination to really add a bespoke element to whatever function the room is being used for.” Scolmore, scolmore.com
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SMART LIGHTING & LIGHTING CONTROL
A STATELY UPGRADE FOR HOPETOUN HOUSE A stately home in Scotland needs to keep up appearances, even if it means converting its 18th century chandeliers to embrace the more modern world of LED dimming control. ECN looks at how solutions from Zano Controls were able to meet this demand.
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aining the reputation of “Scotland’s finest stately home,” Hopetoun House in Edinburgh is a Category-A listed building built in 1699 that eagle-eyed TV fans may recognise as a filming location in television series, Outlander. As impressive as the stately home is, management knew that its grand ballroom required an urgent upgrade. Recommended by local wholesaler, Yesss Electrical, Livingston branch, Del Campbell of Westrigg Electrical Services was appointed to undertake a complex LED upgrade at Hopetoun House. One of Yesss Electrical’s key new customers, Hopetoun House had experienced months (if not years) of
frustration with the lighting set-up in the ballroom, and desperately wanted a simple, effective and maintenance-free solution to lighting the room – which is a highly sought-after wedding venue with a highend, vintage aesthetic. Faced with an awkward lighting project in one of Scotland’s greatest ballrooms, electrician Campbell was up for the challenge. He explains, “We all know that great LED lighting effect and dimming capability is essential to a perfect finish in a commercial venue; it sets the mood, enhances appearance and significantly reduces overhead costs. But the big question is: how can you achieve this with 90 LEDs across three 18th century chandeliers, without the need for an expensive, bespoke dimming pack?” It didn’t take Campbell long to discover that there was far more to the job than A look at the majestic ballroom in Hopetoun House
Zano Controls provided an offthe-shelf, remote dimming pack that was easy to install
simply replacing the lamps with vintagelooking LEDs. “The existing system used to control the lighting level in the ballroom was headacheinducing,” he reflects. “Flicker and buzz were a nasty byproduct of an outdated lighting control panel, and the maintenance team were deeply frustrated with constantly replacing the chandeliers’ lamps – sometimes changing as many as 20 a week.” Fed up with flickering, buzzing lamps, the client required a simple, maintenancefree solution to lighting that would finally bring to life the magnificence of Hopetoun’s grand ballroom.
It was crucial that the updated chandelier system would be maintenancefree, dimmable from one single point, completely silent, 100% flicker-free, styled with vintage-aesthetic LED lamps, and crucially – able to cope with the large load of LED lamps. With the project requiring 90 LEDs that needed to be connected to existing wiring, finding a dimming solution to cope with a load of that size without an expensive bespoke dimming system would be a challenge. Aware of the issues associated with pairing LED and TRIAC dimmers, and that finding a solution to cope with such
TRANSFORM YOUR SPACE WITH SMART+ STRIP LIGHTING IN STOCK 34 | October 2019
SMART LIGHTING & LIGHTING CONTROL
a load would be tough – Campbell asked Yesss Electrical for some product advice. The team at Yesss Electrical immediately recommended Zano Controls, and within a few minutes, Campbell was on the phone to a member of the Zano tech team. He had heard about Zano’s problem solving products prior to this project, but had not previously tried and tested its LED dimmers himself. Zano took no time in finding the solution: to cope with the number of LEDs required and resulting inrush current, the chandeliers required the ZBARLED1000, an off-the-shelf remote dimming pack that was easy to install. Zano frequently tests lamps for compatibility with its dimmers, which meant the company could advise on a specific brand of dimmable vintage aesthetic LEDs too. The three chandeliers in the ballroom required a total of 90 LEDs, all at a wattage of roughly 4W per lamp. With the inrush current accounted for, Campbell was looking at a total load size of just under 700W/VA. Impressed by how straight-forward the ZBARLED1000 was to install, Campbell got straight to work fitting the 90 LEDs around the ballroom perimeter and connecting the lighting control solution up to the chandeliers from one central point in the room. Using a total of six circuits (two per
chandelier) and wiring from SWA cable, the wattage is kicking out at 1000W/VA per ZBARLED1000 dimmer. Despite a minor hold up in the form of an ITV drama being filmed at Hopetoun (which, in-turn, meant the ballroom was out of action for a solid 24 hours being used as a dressing room), the process went smoothly. Campbell was able to return the following day to programme the dimmer using Zano’s smart settings just in time for a wedding taking place in the ballroom that weekend. By adding a specifically-designed controller for the ZBAR remote dimmer (one that’s ideal for multiple control points and large loads), Campbell enabled rotary dimming control of the three chandeliers from one point in the ballroom. “This finally gave Hopetoun House’s management team lighting control in the ballroom that produced spectacular results, without compromising on the light output of the LEDs,” Campbell adds. And he wasn’t the only one that was happy, with Hopetoun House commenting: “After years’ worth of frustration with the old setup, I cannot express how relieved, pleased and impressed we are with what you have done for us.” Zano Controls, zanocontrols.co.uk
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SMART LIGHTING & LIGHTING CONTROL
THE WIRELESS WAY FORWARD In this article, CMD explains the benefits of Audacy, its lighting control system – and tells you how switching from wired to wireless lighting can transform your business’s fortunes.
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t’s all in the name – a wireless lighting control system lets you control the lights in your premises using a wireless switch or a wireless device such as a smartphone, tablet or computer. Predicted to become an integral feature of many business premises in the future, these intelligent (or smart) lighting systems allow you to light your building much more efficiently – while saving money on your energy bills in the process.
Easy to install and expand With only five main components, getting Audacy up and running is quick and easy. Taking less than half the time you’d need to fit a traditional wired lighting system, installing Audacy is so uncomplicated that it’s never likely to cause any real disruption to your operations. The gateway is the system’s central hub. It takes the commands you give it via your wireless switch, or the Audacy Interface software on your smartphone, tablet or computer, and communicates them to the lighting sensors and controllers. It’s powered by a hardwired 24-volt AC or DC supply and, like all Audacy components, can be mounted to the wall or ceiling. From there, it can turn off, dim, or turn on, up to 250 lights in real time, or be programmed to do so at a time you schedule.
Using infrared technology, motion sensors detect when people enter or leave the room and then lighten, dim or darken the room accordingly. Because they operate without wires, the sensors can be fixed easily to the wall or ceiling in whichever position is most effective. Luminaire controllers, which are small ‘plug-and-play’ modules, use push-in wire connectors to hook up to the junction box or luminaire body with the minimum of effort and fuss. It takes, on average, less than three minutes to install a controller. Capable of transmitting over a range of 50 metres – further with the repeater mode enabled—they can control lights individually, in groups or across an entire room. By measuring the brightness of the daylight coming through the windows, battery-powered light sensors tell the lamps when to dim, so as to keep the room lighting consistent. This is known as daylight harvesting, and helps with energy efficiency by ensuring no electric light is wasted. Like motion sensors, light sensors can be mounted to the wall or ceiling and placed wherever is most convenient and beneficial. Although you’re able to operate the lights from your wireless device wherever you may be, you might also want the additional function of switches you can use on-site. Available as either a wall-mounted faceplate to replace existing switches, or as a remote control-style device that can
The user interface and dashboard provides complete control of the Audacy system
sit inside its own wall-mounted bracket when not in use, Audacy’s switches let you override the commands and customisations you’ve already set up on the Audacy Interface.
Ease of use Audacy is designed to be user-friendly and intuitive. Training people to use it takes a matter of hours rather than days, as is the case with many other lighting systems. As you install the Audacy Interface on your wireless device, you’ll be prompted to upload each Audacy component to the system. Once that’s done, you can start to configure the lighting to your preferences. Because the system is managed online, you don’t have to be inside the building to alter the lighting. You can make adjustments at all times of the day, from wherever you happen to be. But if you do need that on-site functionality, you have the option of using wireless wall-mounted switches that override any setting you’ve created on the system. And you don’t have to confine management of the system to one person. If you’d like every one of your employees to be able to adjust lighting in their part of the building, you can configure this on the Audacy Interface.
Energy savings and greater control On average, lighting makes up 40% of the costs associated with operating a business premises. Having such close control over your lights means you waste far less energy – and see your electricity bills fall drastically as a result. The Audacy Interface gives you the ability to monitor your energy consumption and costs and budget more effectively. You can time your lights to come on only when you need them, and at a brightness that complements the natural light coming through the windows rather than needlessly add to it. And with motion sensors, your lights can detect when rooms are empty and switch themselves off. Audacy gives you the ability to light your building to your exact needs. You can set brightness levels, timings for motion sensors, or schedules for lights to switch themselves on and off. You can control a single light over a desk or every light throughout the entire building. And if certain rooms require a particular kind of lighting, you can save a group of settings as a customised ‘scene’ that can be activated at the touch of a button. CMD, cmd-ltd.com
Control your lights using your voice and app
36 | October 2019
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The Audacy Wireless DALI Control system focuses on efficiency in all its forms. Faster and easier to install than a typical wired system, you save time and costs associated with build-out and renovation. Our streamlined wireless DALI system allows you to better control your powered environment while advanced smart components minimise energy and lighting costs over time.
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SMART LIGHTING & LIGHTING CONTROL
LIGHTING CONTROL OPENS DOORS FOR CONTRACTORS Julian Barkes, Director at BEMCO, a supplier of quality electrical products for over 120 years, looks at the implications and opportunities arising from the smart lighting revolution.
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he age of the smart home is well and truly upon us. Technology has changed dramatically over the past 10 years, to such an extent that smart tech in the home has moved from a perceived luxury to becoming an intrinsic part of our everyday lives. According to its recent digital home report, the research company EY found that 22% of UK households now own a voice-controlled digital home assistant device, such as an Amazon Echo or Google Home, doubling the 11% figure recorded in 2017. This survey of 2,500 UK consumers found that, when it comes to smart home
appliances, 12% of households own a smart heating device, while 11% own a smart lighting device. 41% and 36% of respondents, respectively, plan to own these products over the next five years. What’s also clear is that while this DIY market is thriving, so too is the professional (B2B) smart home sector. In its latest Size and Scope report, CEDIA, the trade body representing the professional home technology market, revealed that the UK sector is worth just under £700 million and includes 1,600 active companies. Confidence is high among the participants of this survey, with 80% expecting to continue to grow their revenue over the next 12 months.
Tech-savvy homeowners In fact, the surge in popularity of DIY-led solutions is arguably helping to fuel the market for professional installation services. Homeowners are becoming weary of the volume of smart-tech and looking to simplify how they use these devices and typically unrelated sub-systems to make their experience better and more seamlessly integrated, rather than more complicated and time-consuming to control. The opportunity for electricians to be part of this smart home future is there. But, with so many home technology devices and sub-systems in front of them, so much training and education needed to get up to
The RA2 Select from Lutron is an ideal entry level smart home lighting control solution, Julian Barkes says
speed, and so many unknowns ahead of them, the challenge can often be: how do I get a foothold to build a reputation in smart home, without it being too overwhelming a step for my business? Smart lighting control is the way in.
A fresh opportunity for electrical contractors Lighting is bread and butter business for electricians. You know the dimming challenges with LED inside and out, far better than a custom installer. And lighting is also a growing part of this smart home market, as confirmed by the EY survey. Increasingly, today’s larger houses have many more lighting circuits than in the past for LED strip accents, wall lights, feature pendants, and even chandeliers. Without proper control, achieving the right effect is difficult to achieve. Even without this degree of project complexity, bringing smart lighting control into the mix allows electricians to add value by transforming individual rooms, the whole house and the lifestyle of the homeowner. Your customer will be easily able to set multiple lights and blinds to just the right level, creating the right scene for any activity with pre-programmed scenes automatically bringing the best lighting for the task at hand. In the kitchen, for example, lights and blinds can automatically adjust for cooking, a quiet dinner, film mode or cleaning up. The good news is that the technology to deliver simple, low cost and low risk wireless lighting control is now readily available. This type of solution is also perfectly suited to the retrofit market where the appetite for smart home improvements is growing exponentially.
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A strategic partnership BEMCO recently announced a strategic partnership with the leading global brand in residential lighting control, Lutron, to help electricians access this market. By joining the Lutron Advantage Programme, we can provide electricians with a brand that’s trusted in smart lighting control. Lutron also has a product range that will support contractors to grow their business and use their experience as a bridge to move in comfortable, small steps into the professional smart home sector. That product range is Lutron RA2 Select. It’s simple, reliable and affordable and is the perfect entry level smart home lighting control solution on the market. Comprising a wireless ecosystem of keypads and sensors, in-line dimmers, switches and repeaters, running off its own internet independent network, RA2 Select offers personalised lighting and blind control for smart homes that’s perfectly pitched for the consumer, and the electrician. The in-line dimmer or in-line switch fits in the ceiling void for fast, convenient retrofit installation. At the same time, the Pico wireless controls have batteries that will last for 10 years, and the main repeater is connected to the home network to enable setup, control, and monitoring via the Lutron app. It’s a simple retrofit solution. In essence, RA2 Select offers 80% of the functionality of Lutron’s flagship HomeWorks system at a fraction of the cost. It integrates seamlessly with Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Honeywell Wi-Fi thermostats, Nest and Sonos as well. As a lighting control solution for electricians, RA2 Select is a genuine crowd pleaser and an all-round game changer. For more than 125 years, BEMCO has
“Bringing smart lighting control into the mix allows electricians to add value by transforming individual rooms, the whole house and the lifestyle of the homeowner.”
served the electrical market as a supplier of domestic and commercial installation equipment, appliances and multi-service distribution boards manufacturer. We understand electricians. We’re also keen to support you to succeed in the future and take full advantage of the changing market. Smart home is definitely one of the opportunities that’s worth taking and Bemco is keen to make it work for you. The company is therefore offering electricians Lutron RA2 Select Training across all our branches, and full technical support to help them complete projects. This will give BEMCO customers all they need to know to design, install and integrate a Lutron RA2 Select system in the home. For more information, contact training@bemco.co.uk.
A special offer for ECN readers To prove our point, we recognise that there is no better place to get started with smart technology than in your own living room, so if you email us, marking your subject line “ECN Lutron Offer”, then we will supply you with a RA2 Select Starter Kit at a special offer price exclusive to ECN readers of £357.50 + VAT. Now is the time to get into smart lighting. So, what are you waiting for? Bemco, bemco.co.uk
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STEP INTO THE SMART LIGHT Gavin Williams, Head of Marketing at Hamilton Litestat, details why complex LED lighting control solutions are needed in today’s homes in order to support the movement towards personalisation and energy conservation.
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roperties with open plan layouts are hugely sought after. Kitchen, dining and lounge areas are increasingly combined to allow occupants to spend more time together sharing the same space and give the impression of being more open and expansive. But lighting requirements for cooking, eating, doing homework, reading or watching TV are very different. Today, more complex LED lighting control solutions are needed in order to meet the requirements of these multi-functional areas, allowing light to be ‘zoned’ rather than simply ‘on’ or ‘off’.
keeping the area feeling connected while providing just enough visibility to find that second bottle of wine tucked away. Less energy is being consumed, and the space is more welcoming and easier to use. Multiple scenes can be set to provide flexibility for any situation or task. In this way, today’s lighting technology will make the home more inviting, more flexible and more usable.
A commercial proposition This technology can also be utilised in the commercial space, switching between lunch service and evening service in a restaurant, for example. In both the home and commercial setting, lighting scenes can also help accentuate key features, such as shelves, staircases or interesting areas of architecture, by incorporating spotlight
Creating special scenes Smart lighting control allows for lighting scenes to be created, stored and recalled at the touch of a button, control pad, or swipe of a finger on a smart device. For example, when preparing food, lighting needs to be bright, particularly when using knives. But when entertaining guests and sat around the dining table, you don’t necessarily want the kitchen to remain that bright, or for it to be plunged into darkness on the other hand. Here, lighting scenes and digital dimming can help to achieve the right ambience while also helping to save significant amounts of energy. Switching between a ‘cooking’ and an ‘entertaining’ pre-set could automatically dim the kitchen lighting to a warm glow,
LED lighting control solutions allow light to be ‘zoned’, rather than simply turned ‘on’ or ‘off’
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or strip LEDs. Going one step further, DMX lighting control can apply either a red, green or blue colour wash to the area to change the ambience completely.
Finding the right balance Furthermore, smart controls can help achieve the right balance of artificial and natural light. Floor to ceiling glazing is particularly popular, but this can sometimes lead to unpleasant glare at certain times of the day and year. Blind control can be incorporated within the smart control solution. Blinds could automatically open at sunrise and close at sunset, or pull closed at the brightest and hottest time of day to regulate room temperature. This control can also be used to stop the bleaching effect of sunlight on fabrics and artwork. Although this may sound complicated, in fact setting lighting scenes and blinds
“Smart lighting control allows for lighting scenes to be created, stored and recalled at the touch of a button, control pad, or swipe of a finger on a smart device.” with a smart control solution can be easier than turning lights on and off or fiddling with dimmers to create the right lighting situation. Recalling the scenes can be done with just one touch of a button, as the control can be delivered through wallmounted buttons, plates or remotely via Hamilton’s app. This also means that a property can be controlled when its occupants are overseas for security. Or, for added peace of mind, there is the possibility to incorporate
intelligent control. Hamilton offers a solution that records home lighting and blind habits over a specific time period, such as two weeks, and then enables playback of this when the property isn’t occupied. This simulates the occupants going about their regular routine and avoids the obvious signs of a dwelling being empty. Today’s homes and lifestyles are becoming more customised to individual wants and needs, and lighting is adapting to support this movement towards personalisation. We anticipate that perception around lighting will change from expecting the traditional on/off requirement to having a system that can be adapted for the space and needs of occupants, both collectively and individually. Hamilton Litestat, Hamilton-litestat.com
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GOING GREEN – WITHOUT THE RISK Energy savings and reduced carbon footprint are compelling reasons to transition to LED lighting, but an uncertain economic climate often deters risk-averse companies. Luckily, there’s no need to delay reaping the rewards, as Goodlight explains.
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n an uncertain economic climate, businesses are understandably cautious. For many firms, pulling up the drawbridge is the most obvious strategy. Defensive measures include cost-saving programmes and delays to capital investment, with particular management pressure on up-front costs. Furthermore, companies are concerned that legal frameworks for funding may change under new regulatory and financial frameworks. Nevertheless, there remains a compelling case for investing in LED lighting.
Why invest in LEDs? Whether enforced by regulations or not, LEDs provide better working environments than traditional lamps. In the absence of flicker or glare, LED-lit workplaces are healthier, safer, and more productive. Retrofit options give buildings a better quality of light without disruption, and all fittings are easily upgradable, enabling them to be added to new or existing building automation systems. The result is a rapid boost to efficiency and cost-ofownership. It is not only the working environment that benefits – finances are healthier, too. The energy-savings and carbon footprint are obvious advantages. For example, a typical 50W halogen replacement LED will use 7W of electricity for the same light output, saving 86% in direct running costs. Of course, the business gains a corresponding reduction in its carbon footprint – a significant benefit regardless of any additional government incentives.
In addition to meeting carbon reduction targets and saving costs, businesses can enjoy the positive PR of reducing their carbon output, all the while doing their bit for the environment. Cost savings extend well beyond the improvement in power consumption. A substantial contribution comes from the lower maintenance requirement. For example, LED lamps and luminaires rated at 50,000 hours last three times longer
EXPERT SUPPLIERS IN ALL SMART LEDs 44 | October 2019
than typical fluorescent lights, giving site operators further savings in maintenance overheads. Although the initial cost is higher, the longevity of LED lighting more than compensates. Correct calculation of lifetime cost also takes into account the savings in maintenance. The cost of removing spent lamps, disposing of the old units and fitting replacements can be huge – especially for warehouses and industrial buildings that have high ceilings or similar
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problems with access. Where quality LED lighting manufacturers offer guarantees of five years, maintenance costs can be eliminated altogether.
Barriers to investment
Goodlight offers reliable LED lighting that can pay for itself in energy savings in just one year
Despite the advantages over traditional lighting, one of the main reasons why many organisations have still not converted from incandescent, halogen or compact fluorescent lamps is the high initial cost of installing LED lighting. That can be a substantial concern in uncertain times, and upfront investment is not a welcome option. External economic constraints may affect interest rates and in turn a company’s ability – and willingness – to take on debt. Fortunately, there is an alternative – leasing LED lighting through monthly energy savings. Unlike conventional bank lending, either unsecured or tied into some form of collateral, leased assets are a form of collateral by themselves. Both parties – lessor and lessee – are exposed to significantly lower risk, so leasing decisions can quickly respond to immediate commercial requirements.
A shining example of LED funding Leasing enables businesses to fund lighting replacement programmes from their operating budgets; and leasing schemes, such as Goodlight’s Bright Plan, allow the replacement LED lighting to be paid for directly from energy savings. With no upfront cost, leasing schemes have zero impact on the cash reserves of the business. Companies can fund their new LED lighting completely out of their reduced energy costs, with extra left for the business every month. Rates are fixed for two to five years, depending on the length of the agreement, which removes the uncertainty and makes budgeting easier. Moreover, rates can be significantly below typical bank lending. Take the example of a typical five-year lease illustration from Bright Plan. A site survey recommends the installation of 100 five-foot LED replacements for fluorescent tubes. The total equipment value is £4,500, and this is funded by a weekly payment of £21.76, with a first payment of £94.28 followed by 59 monthly payments of £94.28. The total cost is £5,656.80. The company claims tax relief at 21% on the lease payments, totalling – £1,187.93, so the net
cost of finance is £4,468.87. Leasing is tax-smart too, with fixed monthly costs 100% allowable under UK taxation rules. Fixed rate schemes help companies ride out the economic uncertainties, and risk is further lowered because the manufacturer’s guarantee covers the lighting units throughout the term of the lease. When the lease finishes, the customer will own the lights outright and is still able to take advantage of remaining guarantee period. LEDs will continue to save the company money for years after the lease period. There are further advantages to funding a lighting replacement programme through the manufacturer’s lease offering. With Bright Plan, Goodlight offers businesses a free site survey which provides a detailed breakdown of suitable replacement light fittings, the installed cost and the return on investment from savings on energy and maintenance costs. They also guarantee all LED fittings for 50,000 hours, the equivalent of five years, making each LED lighting installation risk-free. With benefits and advantages like this, funding your lighting through savings on energy may be the perfect antidote to economic gloom.
“Leasing schemes, such as Goodlight’s Bright Plan, allow the replacement LED lighting to be paid for directly from energy savings.”
LED Eco Lights, goodlight.co.uk
The Connected lighting System Easy to use, wireless controllable lighting system Products that work seamlessly together. Device firmware can be updated over the air No need for an external gateway device October 2019 | 47
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SMART LIGHTING & LIGHTING CONTROL
A SMART TRANSITION FOR THE KIMPTONS When a family in Hertfordshire decided to take the plunge and invest in smart technology for their home, they soon realised that solutions from Aurora Lighting matched their needs. ECN looks at the range of products that have led to considerable cost and energy savings.
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ith homeowners increasingly intrigued by smart technology – whether it be out of curiosity for new gadgets, or simply driven by a desire to lower utility bills – there’s still an air of confusion as it relates to finding the right solutions. One such family that found themselves in this predicament is the Kimpton family, based in Harpenden, Hertfordshire. When they first looked into the possibility of investing in smart technology for their home, the primary motive was to save money by reducing their energy consumption. Also on their wish list was the ability to manage their home and control it via their phone, and the prospect of scheduling times according to their regular timetable – and creating scenes appropriate for various activities – was most appealing. When looking into the available options, they soon discovered that the AOne smart home system from Aurora was the perfect solution for their particular needs. In comparision to other systems available, it was deemed affordable; it was easy to find a qualified contractor to help install quickly, as it did not require any rewiring; and, it enabled the entire house and different types of lighting scenarios to become smart.
A complete smart home offering Aurora’s AOne smart home solution, which is compatible for use with Samsung’s SmartThings hub, offers homeowners the opportunity to upgrade their lighting as well as connect to other smart heating, locks, entertainment and security brands for a complete smart home solution. The Kimpton family chose a selection
of different products from the AOne range. Firstly, all lighting throughout the house was upgraded to smart LED alternatives. The AOne range offers a full retrofit solution with GU10s, GLS lamps, LED Strip and integrated fire rated downlights, all of which are ideal for use in new build and renovation projects. The AOne range also includes a number of different wall-mounted and handheld control devices. The AOne rotary dimmer is used throughout the upstairs bedrooms,
The AOne kinetic wall controller was installed in the kitchen to offer different scenes and lighting effects
TRANSFORM YOUR SPACE WITH SMART+ STRIP LIGHTING IN STOCK 48 | October 2019
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allowing the family the usual dimming control that they were used to. However, lamps can also be controlled via their mobile phones. The AOne kinetic wall controller, which is wireless and battery-free due to the energy generated from pressing the switch being used to activate control, was installed in the kitchen to create many different scenes. The AOne remote control enables wireless local room control, even when there’s no internet available. PIR sensors, which allow users to set a timeout time to switch connected devices off – making them particularly useful for rooms such as bathrooms and utility rooms – were installed throughout the house. Lux settings allow for the PIR to only be triggered when it gets dark, so lights are not being used unnecessarily during the day. Several AOne double wall sockets were installed in various places, including the hallway, that enable smart control over lamps, heating and other devices. One key location where it was inserted was in the child’s bedroom, as it enables parental control and the locking of the socket at a certain time when play time had to come to an end.
Double wall sockets, such as the one shown below, enable smart control over multiple devices
An impressive, energysaving result The Kimpton family now enjoys, and benefits from, a fully smart and automated home. In addition, it will also save them in
SPECIAL FEATURE
the region of £566 per year, based on usage figures of five hours per day, 365 days a year (with a cost saving of £0.12 kilowatt per hour with the simple transfer to LED alone). Further savings are likely to be achieved using a smart lighting system. The residents were extremely pleased with the introduction of the smart sensors. Despite the fact that they were already saving money by switching to LED lamps, they can now ensure that lamps are switched on only when rooms are in use. And finally, the Kimpton family linked up the AOne system to Alexa, enabling each room to be voice controlled by any family member.
What is the AOne? Aurora’s AOne is one of the widest ranges of smart lighting available today. Compatible with SmartThings, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, the AOne covers power, lighting and control, and is easy to install and cost-effective when compared with traditional smart lighting systems. The AOne consists of a range of ‘smart inside’ devices, including downlights, GU10s and LED strip controllers, as well as kinetic switches and energy monitoring smart sockets. However, by installing just one AOne dimmer to the system, each room in a home can instantly become smart, and controlled by a single hub via the AOne smartphone app. With the AOne, users can manage their scheduling and grouping, allowing lights to be programmed to dim, turn off and on at any time. It can also help manage everything from mood to energy savings, and even off-premises control. However, unlike many systems on the market, should you lose internet connection, you can still manage this one locally. Aurora has set up an AOne installer training programme, which takes place at various locations throughout the UK and is free to attend. Installers can sign up on the Aurora Lighting website. Aurora Lighting, auroralighting.com
Control your lights using your voice and app
October 2019 | 51
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AUTOMATED FOR EFFICIENCY When the historic Bronte Girls’ Academy in Bradford needed to brighten up its classrooms and corridors, a new lighting system from CP Electronics offered the perfect solution. Here’s a look at how the project unfolded.
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P Electronics, an energy saving lighting controls specialist, has transformed the Bronte Girls’ Academy in Bradford, West Yorkshire. Working closely with G&H Building Services, the company turned the old Bradford Council Offices into a new 600-pupil academy. Designated as a ‘free school’, Bronte Girls’ Academy is open to pupils aged between 11 and 16 and is managed by Feversham Education Trust. A range of CP Electronics’ lighting control systems and detectors is used throughout the school, including classrooms, staffrooms, office areas, main hall, sports hall, kitchen and external areas such as parking and entry points. The transformation of the old building makes the academy one of the most energy efficient and modern schools in the country.
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About G&H Building Services
All under one roof
With automation and efficiency a key requirement of the project, CP’s innovative Vitesse Plus system is used as part of the many new energy saving solutions in the academy. The standalone sevenchannel system is installed throughout the classrooms and is connected with daylightdimming presence detectors to help save energy. The detectors will automatically dim the lights closest to the windows if sufficient natural daylight is available. Other areas of the school also benefit from CP’s energy saving technology. The academy’s corridors make use of CP’s longrange microwave detectors, and will dim down to a set output, only going back to 100% when movement is detected. Meanwhile, toilets and bathroom lighting are set to switch on or off, based on presence detection, whilst the offices also use dimming technology paired with DALI LED lighting. Enabling this lighting control is CP’s Vitesse Modular system. The unique benefit of the modular system is its ability to adapt and grow from four to 16 way. This gives Bronte Girls’ Academy the flexibility of easily changing the lighting set-up when required.
Bronte Girls’ Academy is also set up for different lighting scenes in communal areas, such as the sports halls and dining areas. Utilising scene-setting plates, these areas are programmed with five different lighting set-ups that can be adjusted to dim or brighten, depending on the activity taking place. Neil Blunt, Project Manager for G&H, says, “G&H Group has a long-established relationship of working with CP Electronics, thanks to their huge range of lighting controls, technical support and knowledge of lighting. Once again, they have delivered with Bronte Girls’ Academy, enabling us to meet the needs of the school and minimising energy usage.” Ian Dennon, Area Sales Manager for CP Electronics, says, “We are delighted to have had the opportunity to help transform the old Bradford council offices into this outstanding new school. It’s a fantastic new facility, and our controls will go a long way to help keep running costs down for years and years to come.”
G&H Building Services, part of the G&H group of companies incorporated in 1998, project manages the design, build and installation of the services every building needs to operate safely and comfortably. This includes the heating, ventilation and air conditioning; gas, electricity and renewable power supplies; water, drainage and plumbing; lighting; energy management systems; refrigeration; acoustics; and, communications, security and safety systems. Its focus of attention is always the people who will be using the building. For example, for the education facilities we deliver – such as the Bronte Girls’ Academy – the company questions how and when each room will be used throughout the day by students and staff and which subjects are being studied. Its involvement starts at the concept stage, shaping the designs through BIM to make buildings that are not only operational, efficient, comfortable and safe but bespoke to the end user. G&H has an extensive record project managing some of the most complex new build and retrofit schemes, and has the ability to work considerately in live environments and knowledge of how to operate in crowded sites with limited access.
CP Electronics, cpelectronics.co.uk
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SPECIAL FEATURE
GUIDING LIGHT FOR LONDON STUDENTS With the help of the London Borough of Waltham Forest, one of the most significant schools in the region has received a welcome boost to its LED lighting installation. ECN finds out why products from Energys Group were chosen. Leytonstone School is on track to significantly reduce its annual energy use following the final part of its LED lighting upgrade – as financed by the London Borough of Waltham Forest’s Salix Fund. The project is estimated to achieve annual savings in the region of £8,700, against a project cost of £69,639. This is estimated to lead to carbon reduction savings of 24.61 tonnes of CO2 per annum, with lifetime carbon savings of 615 tonnes. The return on investment, meanwhile, is predicted to be within 7.3 years. Leytonstone School has been in its current location in the London Borough of Waltham Forest for over a century. Today, more than 800 students aged between 11-16 attend the school, which has consistently been rated as ‘good’ by OFSTED since 2016. As one would expect, since Leytonstone School first opened, there has been ongoing development of the site. The latest refurbishment took place just four years ago, when the lighting in the main building was upgraded to LEDs. However, the lighting in the practical block and music and drama building, was not upgraded at that time. As such, Sean Goffin, Site Manager at the school, became increasingly concerned about the maintenance costs and levels of lighting failures, particularly relating to the emergency lighting. When he contacted Nimish Shah, Energy Manager at London
Borough of Waltham Forest, he was confident that they would be keen to assist.
Salix funded solution The London Borough of Waltham Forest supports schools in the borough to improve their energy efficiency and reduce their carbon emissions through its Salix Fund. Waltham Forest match-funds the Salix grant to provide loans to schools within the borough. Nimish explains, “We loan funds to schools to invest in energy efficiency projects, and they repay us as those savings are realised. We have been running this fund for the past decade, and so far, we have recycled it two and a half times.” With more than 50 maintained schools within the borough, the team at Waltham Forest are keen to target schools with the highest expenditure on energy projects. This latest project for Leytonstone School showed significant scope to make further savings – and as such, the borough’s energy team agreed it was a project to proceed with.
Minimum disruption, maximum savings Raj Gunasekaren, Business Development Manager at Energys Group, proposed a solution which could be delivered with
the minimum of disruption. Self-learning intelligent wireless control LED lights were installed, which use iDim Active+ sensor technology. This is an intelligent wireless automatic control which provides daylight harvesting and presence detection without the need for re-wiring or modification to existing circuits. Energys Group estimated that the project would take ten days to complete, and – in order to minimise disruption to the school timetable – the project was scheduled for the summer half-term holiday. In the event, the majority of the project was completed during the half-term week, and the team finished off the project by working a couple of early mornings and late evenings.
Improved quality of light The school’s site manager, Sean Goffin, was very pleased with the way in which Energys Group delivered this project. He comments, “The work was completed on time and with minimum disruption to the school day, and teachers have already commented on the improvement in the quality of the lighting, which is an excellent outcome.” Goffin is also pleased with the commitment the Energys Group team has made in following up and tweaking the new system. He notes, “Nothing has been too much trouble for Energys, and whilst
it is still early days in terms of seeing the energy savings coming through, I am already noticing a reduction in the maintenance time for the lighting in these two buildings.” Raj adds, “We are delighted to install our energy efficient, state of the art LED technology at Leytonstone School. Staff and students alike will now benefit from all the known benefits of LED lighting, including reduced eyestrain and improved alertness – and the school budget benefits too!”
Key project outcomes • The project cost £69,639 and is estimated to achieve annual savings in the region of £8,700. • The estimated carbon reduction is 24.61 tonnes of CO2 per annum, with a lifetime carbon savings of 615 tonnes. • Return on investment is predicted to be within 7.3 years.
Energys Group, energysgroup.com
Hastle free LED dimming INFRARED REMOTE CONTROL LIGHTSCENE FUNCTIONALITY 1 - 10 DIMMABLE LEDs TOUCH CONTROL October 2019 | 55
COMPANY PROFILE
NEXT-LEVEL CALIBRATION FROM RE-CAL For nearly 15 years, Re-Cal, a division of the Di-Log group, has delivered expert calibration against a backdrop of dedicated customer service. This month’s company profile looks at each of the company’s key offerings.
History
Re-Cal’s ethics
The complete solution
Re-Cal was incorporated as a division of the Di-Log group in 2005 to introduce a customer focused service and calibration division to support the growing demand for service support from its customers. The division is headed up by Paul Broad, Re-Cal’s Managing Director. Broad joined the Di-Log Group from Seaward Electronic and with an extensive background in sales, service and electronic engineering, Paul’s knowledge and key attributes have made Re-Cal the hugely successful service and calibration business that you see today. Since Re-Cal’s inception in 2005, it has become one of the largest calibration specialists in the UK, operating a national service from the heart of Manchester with free collections and deliveries to all mainland UK destinations. Re-Cal is an approved service centre for the leading manufacturers of electrical and electronic test instruments, ranging from Megger to Seaward, offering standard calibrations, repairs, hire and training through its state-of-the-art service and repair centre; as well as through its mobile laboratory, dubbed ‘The Lab on Wheels’. With over 14 years of test instrument specialism and a committed workforce, Re-Cal prides itself on its commitment to continuous customer satisfaction through high standards, quality and performance of its business activities.
The ethic of the business has always been to ensure that Re-Cal provides its customers with an unrivalled level of expertise, providing support with the highest levels of customer service. This begins with the people who work at Re-Cal. The company is proud to have some of the longest serving and most professional employees in the industry; ranging from senior management, to everybody in the ISO certified laboratory.
Re-Cal continues to go the extra mile when it comes to the complete calibration solution. Whether it be its free collection service, available daily from most sites across the UK; the advanced mobile laboratory which will bring a replica of Re-Cal’s laboratory to your premises; or by attending one of the company’s on-site calibration days, which are held virtually every week across the country, Re-Cal is here to support your every need.
Sales team
The Lab on Wheels
Re-Cal is one of the very few calibration businesses that has a national sales team that can visit sites to discuss your calibration requirement, and even help manage the logistical issues associated with large scale national engineering teams. Its highly trained sales staff are already assisting in managing national calibration programmes across the country – so can Re-Cal help with yours?
In 2012, Re-Cal added a mobile laboratory to its offering, known as the ‘Lab on Wheels’. Bringing the full laboratory service to your site has proven to be a huge success for Re-Cal, taking it to prestigious sites that include Buckingham Palace and McLaren F1. The full scope lab can offer an array of precision services on-site, including multimeters, clamp meters, 18th Edition installation testers, PATS and torque wrenches, plus many more electrical and mechanical functions.
Innovation and technology Re-Cal continues to lead the way on services that are provided to the industry, investing in world-class UKAS accredited calibration equipment from Transmille, which offers advanced precision calibrators traceable back to the National Physics Laboratory.
Does Re-Cal have a calibration policy in place? Re-Cal often gets asked, “Do I need to get my test instruments calibrated?” The company responds by stating that all measuring instruments should be calibrated
to ensure that they operate to their optimum performance level. This could vary from 18th Edition testers, to PAT testers and multi-meters, to environmental testers. The interval depends entirely on the use and abuse that the instrument suffers in use. However, to answer the question, most manufacturers recommend a re-calibration period of 12 months. In addition to the formal calibration of the instruments, they should also be checked on a regular basis to ensure that they remain within specification. This can be achieved in a number of ways: by cross-referencing to other instruments that the business may own or testing on a designated circuit in the office or home. There are also now several test instrument manufacturers producing calibration check boxes, which enable the contractor to check instrument accuracy in the office or in the field. After all, most of Re-Cal’s instruments are used in arduous environments and do not spend their lives wrapped in cotton wool. They are subjected to rough handling, accidental dropping, and – in some cases – extremes of temperature. The size of company and the instruments deployed will dictate the methods adopted. No matter which method is used, it is vitally important that records of the results are kept and made available upon request. This enables the contractor to demonstrate to any inspectorate that they have an effective control system in place for test equipment. Re-Cal, www.recal.biz
56 | October 2019
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FEATURE UPS
MAKING THE MOVE TO MODULAR In this article, Alex Emms, Operations Director at Kohler Uninterruptible Power, explains how large and micro-scale data centres can, despite their diversity, benefit from modern, modular UPS topology-based solutions.
T
he Internet of Things (IoT) is creating a sustained and exponential growth in data, due to both large project sizes and an ongoing surge in IoT adoption. According to Vodafone’s fifth annual IoT Barometer report, published in 2017, the percentage of companies with more than 50,000 connected devices had effectively doubled in the previous year – and the latest report, appearing in February 2019, shows a surge in adoption leading to 34% of companies globally now using the IoT. This size and rate of growth must clearly be having an impact on data centres, their internal ICT equipment and other components such as UPSs also critical to their operation. But how exactly is the data landscape evolving, and how can UPS designers and users meet the challenges being created?
Figure 1. IoT adoption figures between 2013 and 2018 (from Vodafone IoT Barometer 2019)
To answer these questions, we start by reminding ourselves of the basic IoT model, and then give an example of a typical application; one that reflects today’s IoT realities. Next, we can look at the data centre environments being created by such applications, the challenges they create for the UPSs within, and how modern, modular UPS topology can be used to overcome these.
The IoT model An IoT infrastructure gives us an opportunity to gain previously unattainable insight into the world around us – or part of it, at least – and accordingly take actions that bring new benefits such as greater energy efficiency, more productivity, or reduced maintenance downtime. To achieve this, large numbers of sensors, often distributed over a wide geographical area, collect data from machines, people, vehicles, farmland or other edge locations, including wind farms as mentioned below. For this data to be useful, it has to be sent back to a central processing location, typically large-scale and cloud-based, where it can be integrated, analysed and archived. Recommendations for action can then be generated, either in the form of human-readable reports, or as control commands sent back to actuators around the edge. The collected edge data comprises various analogue, digital, video or audio signals, depending on the application. At the very least, these must be aggregated, formatted for data transmission, and routed through a gateway onto a long-haul network back to the cloud data centre. However, it’s often desirable to process the signals rather than merely package them. Local processing eliminates the latency associated with a return journey to a remote server, so fast, responsive control of local equipment becomes possible. Data security and reliability are also improved. Another key benefit is that the amount of data to be loaded onto the network
is reduced; an increasingly important consideration as IoT traffic volumes increase. This level of processing can be provided by one or more micro data centres distributed around the application’s edge.
Wind energy is one environment that can benefit from both edge micro data centres and centralised cloud resources
IoT example – wind farms Wind energy is one environment that can benefit from both edge micro data centres and centralised cloud resources. Wind turbines are extremely complex devices, often placed in wild conditions, out at sea or in remote land-based locations. Each turbine may include up to 1,000 sensors and actuators; integrating strain gauges, bearing monitors and power conditioning technology. Controlling the turbine is a sophisticated job requiring many cooperating processors closing highspeed loops and implementing intelligent monitoring and optimisation algorithms. While these tasks can best – or only –
October 2019 | 59
FEATURE
UPS
be handled by local processing, there may also be a need to balance the performance of possibly large numbers of turbines distributed across the wide geography of a wind farm. Centralised, IoT-based visibility and control becomes essential to complement the local fast processing capability.
Impact on UPS requirements While micro data centres and cloud data centres are very different environments, both contain IT and communications equipment that needs clean, uninterrupted power. Micro data centres can be in remote locations where access is difficult, timeconsuming and expensive – yet, in spite of the maintenance challenge, their application often demands very high power availability. They may be deployed into locations that are space-constrained and/ or environmentally challenging; minimising heat generation may become a priority. An IoT infrastructure may comprise multiple micro data centres, making hardware standardisation an issue. The centralised cloud resource will more likely be large, or hyperscale, often providing a colocation facility for many users. Loads will be variable, and subject to rapid change through virtualisation or as servers are removed or added. Power problems are unacceptable, due to the high number of users that will be impacted
by any downtime. On such large scales, energy efficiency performance will be highly visible and open to critical review from all stakeholders.
Modular UPS technology Although these requirements are disparate, they can be met by suitable deployments of modular UPS solutions – so what do these comprise? Traditionally, UPSs used monolithic, transformer-based designs of considerable size and weight. If you wanted 60kVA capacity, for example, you would fulfil this with a floor-standing 60kVA UPS unit. And for N+1 redundancy, two such units would be needed. However, with advances in power semiconductor technology, transformerless solutions became possible – and this meant that complete UPSs could be built as relatively small, rack-mounting modules rather than as large monolithic units. The benefits for both scalability and availability are highly significant. For example, the 60kW requirement of above could be met by a 19 inch rack populated with three 20kVA modules. N+1 redundancy could be achieved by adding a fourth 20kW module. Utilisation is 75%, compared with just 50% for the traditional solution. Scalability is easy, as capacity can be incremented by plugging in another module. Many modular UPSs offer hot swappability, so modules can be exchanged
without interrupting power to the critical load. ‘Six nines’, or 99.9999% availability becomes possible, as high availability is related to both maximised mean time between failures (MTBF) and minimised mean time to repair (MTTR). MTBF can be increased through redundancy, while MTTR can be reduced with hot swappability. Repair times using module replacement can be reduced to about half an hour, compared with the six hours or so typically need for an in-situ repair of a monolithic system. Efficiency is improved in a couple of ways. Firstly, transformerless technology is inherently more efficient than transformerbased over a wide operating load range. Secondly, some modular UPSs offer an energy-saving feature called Xtra VFI. This prevents UPS modules from running at low loads, below 25%, where their efficiency drops away. It operates by automatically adjusting the number of active modules to meet changing load requirements. Figure three shows how Xtra VFI can improve operating efficiency.
A practical solution for micro data centres… Kohler Uninterruptible Power’s (KUP’s) PowerWave 8000DPA UPS modular system can be used in micro data centres. It’s available in rack-mountable form, so a complete power protection
solution comprising UPS, battery and communications can be integrated into any manufacturer’s 19 inch racking system, including equipment that has been IP rated to provide protection from dust and water ingress. Providing up to 80kW, or 60kW N+1 using 10 or 20kW hot-swappable modules, the system is suitable for integrated IT, telecom or other applications. It is also available in a tower version, with capacities from 10 to 200kW, or 180kW N+1. Maximum power density is 472kW/m2, and cabinets can be paralleled to increase capacity up to 400kW. With a high energy efficiency of up to 95.5%, heat loading in a confined environment is minimised. High availability is assured through N+1 redundancy, while a stock of standard modules can be held for cost-effective, easily-managed support of multiple micro data centres.
…and another for largescale facilities KUP’s PowerWave 9500DPA UPS system is designed for large data centre environments. A PowerWave 9500DPA rack can accept up to five hot-swappable 100kW modules, for up to 500kW capacity – or 400kW with N+1 redundancy. Up to six racks can be paralleled for horizontal scalability, to provide a total capacity of 3MW. The system provides six nines availability, with online energy efficiency of up to 96% (or > 99% in eco mode). The system also features the Xtra VFI mode, to maintain efficiency even during under-loading.
Conclusion In spite of edge micro data centres’ and central large-scale facilities’ very different environments, they make a number of common demands on their UPSs; extremely high reliability and availability, advanced energy efficiency, and easy scalability. Power systems designers and users can meet these requirements using appropriate implementations of modular UPS technology. Kohler Uninterruptible Power kohler-ups.co.uk
Figure 2. Efficiency enhancement with Xtra VFI
60 | October 2019
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COMPETITION
WIN AN APPLE IPAD
T
he award-winning Scolmore app brings electricians the most comprehensive range of features that will help them in their everyday tasks on-site. The UKbased wiring accessories and lighting manufacturer says it has acted upon feedback from electricians to ensure that the free app saves both time and money, noting that its app is unrivalled by any other electrical app on the market. What sets the Scolmore app apart is the free ‘tool kit’ feature, which includes a selection of valuable calculators, designed to make it quick and easy for electricians to make essential calculations on the job. Included are Z’s values; cable selection and voltage drop; power factor; KVA convertor; cost saving calculator;
downlights number calculator; resistance calculator; voltage calculator; current calculator and power calculator. No other competitor app has everything in one place like the Scolmore app, and none have a tool kit as comprehensive as Scolmore’s either. Unlike some competitor apps, users don’t have to be part of any special scheme to log in, plus users are not restricted to quoting only using Scolmore products. Scolmore has also added a new ‘quick quote calculator’, designed to allow electricians create a quick quote as they walk around site. As well as providing the facility to create a quick quote while on-site, the new ‘quick quote calculator’ also has an advanced setting which allows contractors to set up the unit cost of each item and how much they would like to charge for labour. It is also set up so that if a double socket for
example is added to the quote, it will also automatically add a double back box. Free to download, it features a complete range of searchable products (9,000 in total), product and tutorial videos, catalogue downloads and all the latest news and events to keep users up-to-date with what’s happening in the company and the industry. Scolmore launched its innovative app to bring valuable information on products and their applications, as well as the latest company and industry news, into the hands of both electricians and apprentice electricians, to provide them with the vital tools and knowledge that will help them perform efficiently and quickly on the job. As well as browsing the complete range of products, users can add them to their ‘favourites’ or the ‘quote basket’. Electricians have the facility to email the
a) 2,000 b) 9,000 c) 4,000
Q2: What sets the Scolmore app apart? a) Free ‘Tool Box’ b) Free ‘Tool Kit’ c) Free ‘Box Set’
Scolmore, scolmore.com
Closing date
To be in with a chance of winning an Apple iPad, courtesy of Scolmore, simply answer the following questions: Q1: How many products are available to view on the Scolmore app?
contents of the basket for future reference, or go straight to the wholesaler providing all the information needed to obtain any quotations or make a purchase. With over 9,000 products currently available, the search facility makes it easy to locate the products required and if further information is required, there’s an option to email Scolmore. Product videos and tutorial videos can be viewed whilst on a job, to facilitate the installation process.
Q3: What feature has been added to help electricians create a quick quote as they are walking around the site? a) Quick Quote Calculator b) Fast Quote Calculator c) Easy Quote Calculator
All entries must be returned by October 31, 2019. The editor’s decision is final. The name of the winner will be published in the December issue of ECN. *Prize 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.
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SPECIAL FEATURE
CABLING supported by
October 2019 | 63
SPECIAL FEATURE
CABLING
AUTHENTIC CABLES FROM A NAME YOU CAN TRUST With one in five cables in the UK market proving to be either faulty, counterfeit or substandard, it pays to make the right choice first time around. Here, we examine why cables produced by Doncaster Cables offer the perfect combination of quality, safety and authenticity.
E
lectrical cables are an important aspect of any building’s infrastructure. With vast quantities of cable being installed within buildings around the UK daily, contractors, wholesalers and specifiers should be asking questions such as: Do I know where that cable was manufactured? Do I trust that manufacturer? And will the cable perform as expected throughout its lifetime, or is it going to pose a risk to safety in the future? Too much emphasis is based on cost only, and the questions we have posed are very much overlooked and not considered. If we travel back to the 1970s, when the cable industry was in its prime, there were approximately 30 UK cable manufacturers; most of which had multiple factories based in the UK. Approximately 5% of cable installed within the UK was imported, with the remaining cable being manufactured in the UK by an industry employing over 45,000 people. If you fast forward to the present day, Doncaster Cables is now the largest British owned manufacturer of general wiring cables, and the industry has shrunk to a handful of true cable manufacturers, employing only 2,000 people. Today, it is estimated that approximately 80% of cable installed in the UK is imported from overseas. But at what cost?
Doncaster Cables’ 300,000 square foot manufacturing facility can handle every aspect of cable manufacturing
A factory for every aspect of cable manufacturing Keeping to its traditions and heritage, Doncaster Cables continues to manufacture in a purpose-built, 300,000 square foot manufacturing facility, where it is equipped to handle every aspect of cable manufacturing. This means the company controls every element of the cable manufacturing process across 3,000 different product lines, giving its customers continuity in cable colour, reel sizes,
stripping cores and a single manufacturing source. The factory manufactures everything from simple single core to complex, multi-cored cables, ranging in sizes from 0.22mm² to 185mm². The facility – which operates 24 hours a day, five days a week – can also operate throughout weekends whenever required. Doncaster Cables also produces its own PVC insulating and sheathing materials used in the manufacture of its cable, giving even greater control over quality.
Cables that conform to standards With limited regulations, and even less policing, the door has been left open for faulty cables to be brought into the UK marketplace. Current industry estimates show that one in five cables in the UK market are either faulty, counterfeit or substandard. This is undoubtedly a concerning figure, when the cable installed within our buildings is responsible for the correct functioning of that building, and the safety of people inside, and
QUALITY BRITISH MADE CABLE t: 01302 821700 e: sales@doncastercables.com doncastercables.com 8545 Doncaster Cables 224 x 40mm adverts.indd 1
64 | October 2019
23/09/2019 10:32
SPECIAL FEATURE
the general public. This is not the case with cable products manufactured in the UK. Doncaster Cables is subjected to stringent testing throughout the entire production process. Most of the company’s cables conform not only to British, European and international standards, but also comply with a quality management system that is audited and approved by third party companies. Doncaster Cables is also a founder member of the Approved Cable Initiative (ACI), an independent body dedicated to testing, exposing and highlighting the pitfalls of substandard cables being used in the UK market. By visiting www.aci.org.uk, you can keep up to date with all the latest testing, pitfalls and legislation. Doncaster Cables’ certifications include:
If the cable is marked ‘Doncaster Cables’, users can rest assured that it’s an authentic product from the company’s base in Doncaster
The company’s cables are subject to stringent testing procedures throughout the production process
• British Approvals Service for Cables (BASEC) • Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) • UL and CSA • CPR • Active member of Approved Cable Initiative (ACI)
Safety at the forefront Numerous examples have been identified within the marketplace which have given a genuine cause for concern and pose a credible risk to safety and life. These range from general wiring and flexible cords with high conductor resistance; defective steel wire armoured cables with undersize armour wires; arctic grade flexible cords that crack and expose live conductors; and flexible cords that fail to comply with the relevant British Standard for flex testing which, when flexed over their lifetime, are prone to exposing live conductors
and creating potentially life threatening situations within homes and the workplace. Taking everything into consideration, and with public safety being higher on the list of priorities than ever before, the need to place trust in your cable supplier is more prominent than ever before.
Authenticity and compliance Doncaster Cables explains how it approaches this problem in the marketplace and gives its customers complete reassurance that the cables they are supplied with are of the highest quality, fully compliant, and tested above and beyond the minimum requirements of the relevant British, international and European standards. Doncaster Cables is offering a solution to the marketplace. More than ever, people want reassurance in their purchases, and want to know they are buying a quality product along with information on where it’s being manufactured. This is increasingly difficult with cables, as a brand name on a cable does not necessarily show where the cable was manufactured; with more companies having cables marked with their name rather than the name of the actual manufacturer. People should ask, ‘Do you know where that cable is manufactured’? With Doncaster Cables, this is simple. If it is marked ‘Doncaster Cables’, then it is manufactured in Doncaster, UK.
The new EV-Ultra Cable range After building its reputation on trust, reliability, quality and service, Doncaster Cables is now looking to extend its offering into other products, such as its new EVUltra Cable range. This features a range of cables that provide a unique solution and enable EV installers to carry less cables and reduce installation time. Doncaster Cables EV-Ultra addresses the task of having to install multiple cables to certain EV charging units. Some charging units require both power and data cables, which provide power to the charger and monitor the energy being used throughout the premises or provide data from the charger. Doncaster Cables EVUltra combines the power and data cables into one cable. In reducing the number of cables that need to be run into the building, this enables EV installers to achieve neater installations at a quicker speed, reducing the need to cable tie/clip multiple cables together. For more information about Doncaster Cables’ range of quality products, or its new EV-Ultra cable, please call 01302 821700 or email sales@doncastercables.com.
Doncaster Cables today offers over 3,000 different product lines
Doncaster Cables, doncastercables.com
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October 2019 | 65
SPECIAL FEATURE
CABLING
THE FUTURE OF CABLE CONTAINMENT David Mattin, Managing Director of Dietzel Univolt, places emphasis on health and safety and discusses the issues surrounding cable containment specification. Emphasis on health and safety and the reduction of spread of fire has never been so prevalent across the building and construction landscape. Contractors and end users are paying close attention and careful consideration to every product specified within the supply chain for each new build or refurbishment project. As a direct response, Dietzel Univolt is seeing demand for its low smoke and fire, zero halogen products intensify. Describing the LSF0H product range, Mattin says, “Dietzel Univolt has long supplied the UK with a comprehensive range of products, supplying the sector via the electrical wholesaler. The company has retained a strong foothold across the UK’s construction landscape supplying cable containment solutions, however, and visibility and interest is intensifying in this product range with an PVC-LSF and LSFOH specification.” Through the years, privately owned Dietzel Univolt has invested heavily in product development and research, devising hard hitting solutions that effectively manages and withstands the potentially devastating effects of fire. Safety has and continues to be the most pressing element when approaching any electrical installation. Key factors to consider encompass building type and fabric, installation methods applied, and the product specified. Ensuring the correct solution is selected to suit the application forms a key element of this process. Highly visible disasters resulting in multiple loss of life have been caused
through the use of unsafe products that simply didn’t have the inherent qualities to minimise smoke and fire for a period that allows the safe exit of a building. Mattin continues, “The fire at King’s Cross Underground station in 1987 killed 31 when a stray match started a fire underneath a wooden escalator. Thick smoke made it harder for passengers to evacuate and made life extremely difficult for the emergency services. Unfortunately, subsequent tragedies have followed. The need to reduce smoke, coupled with less toxic materials is overwhelming, especially in enclosed spaces and public areas. “In the UK, low fire hazard cables are used widely, even though there are few statutory requirements for their use. One important regulation comes from the Construction Products Regulation 2017, that states all cables that are intended for permanent installation in buildings must be accompanied by a Declaration of Performance (relating to the cable’s fire resistance) and have a CE marking. “These factors must be considered by building specifiers, who will factor the cable’s properties into any risk assessments they carry out. When cables need to have additional protection, conduits using smoke and halogen minimising properties should be given the same safety consideration as cables. “The most important thing to bear in mind when you are specifying or purchasing PVC, PVC-LSF or LSF0H conduits is to know what specifications you are trying to meet. By understanding these properties, caution can be taken against fires and consequential damages, leading to higher safety for human lives,
better protection of valuable assets and safeguarding the continuity of operations. Understanding the risk and potential is critical and forms an integral part of the specification process.”
What is PVC? The main cause of death in a building fire is smoke inhalation, not the flames themselves. Toxic smoke containing halogens is particularly dangerous. PVC is a good flame retarder, which also means that a high temperature is required for it to start burning. However, as PVC is heated, it gives off more than half of its weight as fumes. The hydrogen chloride released into the atmosphere is not only harmful to humans, but it is also corrosive and can damage electrical equipment. Halogens such as dioxins can cause more ‘slow burning’ health problems, with the effects staying with victims much longer. Aside from the health effects, the thick acrid smoke that is released by burning PVC can reduce visibility in emergency situations.
What is PVC-LSF? Low Smoke Fume (PVC-LSF) offers lower emissions than standard PVC. PVC-LSF contains halogens which are released at a slower rate, along with slower smoke release in the first four minutes of a fire than that of standard PVC designed to reduce the spread of fire and smoke. PVC-LSF products are usually manufactured from flame retardant PVC blended with HCL additive. These materials help improve the fire performance of LSF products with negligible cost implications.
What is LSFOH? Low smoke and fume zero halogen (LSFOH) conduits are not only characterised by the fire-retardant performance but also by the halogen-free properties, thus offering low corrosive and toxic emissions. During a fire, LSFOH conduits will emit less smoke and acid gases 90% less smoke and zero halogens which may affect human health and damage expensive communications equipment. Mattin concludes, “With relatively little price differentiator between PVC and LSF, and with very few other manufacturers offering this specification, it’s easy to see why so many are making the switch. However, contractors are edging further towards LSFOH as pressure mounts to provide the safest cable containment solution available on the market with the added benefit that Dietzel-Univolt HFT / LSFOH range of products are 100% recyclable. “For us, this is where the future of PVC cable containment lies, and we are engaging with more and more customers, operating across a diverse sector range, who are keen to learn more about our products. Opting for premium protection is, it seems, the way forward for responsible contractors recommending viable solutions to the client and end user.” Dietzel Univolt, dietzel-univolt.com
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Lasnek.
Because Quality Matters Stainless Steel Cable Management Systems • The stainless steel containment specialist • Choice of containment types & finishes • Bespoke manufacturing service • Large stock availability
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SPECIAL FEATURE
CABLING
BURNING ISSUES Nick Hayler, Technical and Product QA Manager at MarshallTufflex, details what installers need to know about the new changes to BS 7671 IET Wiring Regulations.
I
n March 2018, the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and the British Standards Institution (BSI) announced changes to BS 7671 IET Wiring Regulations (18th Edition). The new requirements came into effect on January 1, 2019, meaning that any installations designed after December 31, 2018 are required to comply with BS 7671:2018. Yet nearly a year later there’s still some confusion over what is and isn’t required from the update. In the event of a fire, every second counts. When a blaze breaks out, it’s essential that those inside the premises can evacuate as quickly as possible, and that emergency services are able to enter and exit safely during the early stages of a smoke-filled room. Unfortunately, any impediment to this can lead to serious injury, or even worse, cost lives. Historically, this has meant ensuring the suitable provision of predetermined fire escape routes and fire alarms, but this is no longer considered adequate protection. Unless the proper precautions are taken, buildings can begin to come apart under intense heat and become a threat to the safety of those inside, particularly emergency services trying to enter and exit the building.
Unsecured wiring One area that’s particularly susceptible to intense heat is wiring systems. Almost every building has electrical wiring, and after almost every fire some kind of damage will be found on it. For one, if wiring systems fall from Cable Management systems (CMS), they either trail along the floor as a tripping hazard or hang across doorways and from ceilings. Furthermore, as wiring systems are often located within a building’s ceiling,
there’s a risk that it can fall through the structure when a fire breaks out. In this situation, fallen wiring poses a significant obstacle to anyone trying to escape the building. Not only can it make escape routes inaccessible but it can fall on top of people causing further injury. To some extent, this issue was recognised in previous regulations, which required the installation of fire clips to cables along predesignated escape routes. However, this particular approach is no longer considered safe, with a number of tragic examples highlighting its deficiencies. The new amendment now requires metallic fire safety clips to be used on all wiring systems, regardless of their position in the building. The new regulations make buildings across the UK safer. What’s more, it will help prevent any more fatalities caused by fallen wiring systems. One particularly harrowing episode, which underlines the dangers of unsecured wiring was the fire at Harrow Court in
“Installers are now required to use metallic materials to support cables across the entirety of a building, this prevents their premature collapse in the event of a fire.”
Changes to BS 7671 IET Wiring Regulations now require metallic fire safety clips to be used on all wiring systems
QUALITY BRITISH MADE CABLE t: 01302 821700 e: sales@doncastercables.com doncastercables.com 8545 Doncaster Cables 224 x 40mm adverts.indd 1
68 | October 2019
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CABLING
Stevenage in 2005. The incident resulted in the deaths of three people, two of which were firefighters. The fire started after a candle melted on the surface of a television. The blaze spread rapidly up the side of the building, eventually reaching the 14th floor. With the building’s smoke alarms failing to sound, many occupants didn’t realise what was happening, delaying evacuation. As a result, it was necessary for firefighters to enter the building to try and save those inside. During the valiant rescue effort, one of the firefighters became entangled in cabling that had fallen from above. The cabling had not been secured by metal fire clips, which meant they fell as the fire took hold of the building. Remnants of the plastic were found melted on the fireman’s gloves, which likely indicated that he was trying to free himself at the time of his death. If the cabling had been secured with adequate fire clips, this wouldn’t have happened. In turn, this means there’s a chance that the brave fireman would have been able to evacuate the building in time. Following the coroner’s inquest into the tragedy, the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) released a statement directly identifying the fallen cables as the cause of the firefighter’s death. Part of the statement read that he was somehow able to make his own way out of flat 85, or was already outside flat 85, before becoming entangled in the electrical cabling that had fallen in the lobby outside. The FBU concludes that it was outside flat 85, trapped amongst the cabling, that he lost his life.
aware that all cables now need to satisfy the requirements of the Construction Products Regulations (CPR) in respect to their reaction to fire. However, existing installations that have been installed in accordance to earlier editions do not have to comply with every aspect of the new requirements.
Fire safety clips For installers, the new regulations will require a change in practices and might require some to become more accustomed with the world of fire safety clips and cable management solutions. With the new regulations in effect, all wiring shall be supported such that it will not be liable to premature collapse. And therefore, the use of non-metallic clips must be the sole means of support. Fortunately, with the new fire regulations in mind, cable management suppliers such as Marshall-Tufflex offer a wide range of products and solutions that meet all current standards. Installers looking to satisfy
these new requirements should look to use solutions like Marshall-Tufflex’s Firefly fire safety clips. The spring-loaded clips can be used to support cables inside trunking to hold wiring securely in place in the event of a fire. The clips have been designed to assist with the BS 7671 wiring regulations, but also allow for a quick installation. What’s more, an external version can be used to retrofit onto existing mini trunking installations and for conduit, clips or straps can be installed. With a melting point of over 1000°C, the solution will stand up to even the most intense flame. The most recent version of BS 7671 features significant changes that installers must be aware of. Featured in the latest update are new regulations, revised regulations, new chapters and restructured sections. However, for electrical installers it’s the changes around clips and cable management that will be most relevant. The update has been put in place to save lives and can’t be ignored. Marshall-Tufflex, marshall-tufflex.com
SPECIAL FEATURE
Cabling secured with adequate fire clips will prevent tragedies such as the fire at Harrow Court in Stevenage in 2005, reoccurring
New provisions This example is just one of many where fallen wiring systems have hampered efforts to evacuate a building. Thankfully, the 18th edition of the IET Wiring Regulations contains a number of new provisions directly related to this problem, as driven by the fire services. For one, installers are now required to use metallic materials to support cables across the entire building, to prevent their premature collapse in the event of a fire. If followed correctly, the changes should dramatically reduce instances like the one that cost a firefighter his life. The new requirement, Regulation 521.10.202 replaced the previous Regulation 521.11.201, which only required adequate support against premature collapse throughout the building’s escape routes. Installers should also be
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October 2019 | 69
SPECIAL FEATURE
CABLING
A SAFE AND SECURE INSTALLATION Ideal Networks, a provider of data cable testers, network testers and telecom/enterprise testers, explains how to maximise the time and cost-effectiveness of a CCTV installation.
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lectrical and mechanical contractor, JPR Engineering Services, has a specialist fire and security solutions division, which had considered, and used, various brands of CCTV test equipment in the past. However, the company has now added two multi-function SecuriTest IP CCTV testers from Ideal Networks to its fleet in order to save time and improve cost-effectiveness on CCTV installation jobs. “CCTV installation and maintenance jobs are unpredictable, which makes it particularly important to have the right testing and troubleshooting tools to hand,” says Konrad Rubery, Fire and Security Department Manager for JPR Engineering. “Around 90% of our new installs are for IP systems and at any one time, we might be working on multiple smaller domestic or retail installations, or a single commercial installation where hundreds of cameras are required.” Before making the purchase decision, Konrad Rubery learnt the capability of the tester in the office. It was then sent out on site with their commissioning engineer to use on different sites with varied scenarios including analogue, IP and HD coax installations. SecuriTest IP is mostly used by JPR for fault finding, call outs to repairs and for final commissioning and reporting. From the outset, the CCTV tester proved much more user-friendly and intuitive than other brands. “It is truly idiot proof,” says Konrad. “The icons on screen are simple to understand, and the tester guides the user through the process which helps save time. Unlike other testers, we have never
had to get the manual out; instead, we’ve discovered the different helpful features as we’ve used it.” Tim Widdershoven, Global Marketing Manager for Ideal Networks, says, “A key challenge for JPR was that for installation and commissioning jobs, engineers would ordinarily need to take multiple items of kit to each job – up to three or four test tools plus a laptop. This proved cumbersome and inefficient, with time spent going back and forth to the van to get the next piece of equipment. “Now, JPR’s engineers can achieve the same result with just one small tester hanging around their neck. The varied functionality of the tester saves hours per job and keeps costs down.” For instance, the HDMI In feature means the engineer can simply plug in to the NVR, conduct the setup, perform tests and see the results rather than needing to take a monitor and recorder on to site. SecuriTest IP can be used for cable testing and cable tracing, so they also no longer need two separate tools for doing this. Similarly, with SecuriTest IP two engineers are no longer required for CCTV installation jobs – one engineer can see and access all the information they need on SecuriTest IP. The tester therefore reduces labour by half, allowing engineers to be scheduled to undertake other work and making each job more cost effective. These cost savings can then be reflected in the price to the customer and ensure JPR remains competitive.
Increased productivity “As we have been able to keep our costs and prices low, we have won many more CCTV installation jobs compared to this
point in the previous year,” says Konrad Rubery. “I believe it has helped business in our fire and security division grow.” To further enhance productivity and free up engineers’ time to undertake other jobs, the PoE and 12V output features of SecuriTest IP have enabled JPR to carry out complete installations, and prove they all work, before power is even available on site. This avoids conducting installation during the rushed final days on site when power goes live, and overall requires fewer visits to the site, as the engineer only needs to return to the site to re-confirm the system is working as reported. Plus, when called to a fault on an IP CCTV camera installation, engineers can now use SecuriTest IP to quickly prove
if the fault does not lie with the camera but instead with the network. Likewise, engineers can easily prove to the customer if the problem is because of changes made after installation. In either scenario, this avoids time wasted on trying to diagnose a camera fault and helps make work required on call backs chargeable. “SecuriTest IP provides comprehensive reports which incorporate time stamped photo images to prove the field of view and data such as the IP address and gateway,” Konrad explains. “As these can show what has changed since installation, we’re able to charge for more of our call-backs.” Ideal Networks, idealnetworks.net
QUALITY BRITISH MADE CABLE t: 01302 821700 e: sales@doncastercables.com doncastercables.com 8545 Doncaster Cables 224 x 40mm adverts.indd 1
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12/09/2019 15:45
SPECIAL FEATURE
CABLING
THE NEXT PHASE OF SAFETY PLANNING With the 18th Edition changes helping to make buildings safer in the event of a fire, it’s worth remembering that the changes only apply to installations designed from January 2019 onwards – which means most contractors are still working to the old rules. Adrian Fowler, Managing Director of Midfix, looks at the implications. Part of the new range of flameproof cable accessories from Midfix
fixing should be used in an installation, and how to ensure they are not inadvertently omitted. As a result, some contractors have switched completely from plastic to metal cable fixings.
Plan ahead
What has changed? A key amendment in the 18th Edition relates to cable installations and how they are fixed throughout buildings. Previously, the rules prohibited the use of plastic containment and cable fixings as the sole means of support for cable installations along escape routes, to prevent premature collapse in the event of a fire and reduce the likelihood of fallen wiring creating a hazard for occupants trying to exit or firefighters trying to manage the fire. This has now been broadened to apply to wiring installations of any type and throughout the entire building, not just the escape routes. The legislation is relevant to all cable types, from power to communications to alarms and CCTV; and as well as applying to the design, erection and certification of new installations, the
regulations also apply to additions and alterations to existing works. Anyone installing, hanging or suspending any electrical cabling in developments of any size or type, even temporary installations, needs to be fully up-to-date with the requirements.
What does this mean? Plastic cable fixings and plastic cable management have not been banned. They remain a cost-effective way of managing cables, but they can no longer be used as the sole method of support. Plastic cable ties and clips and plastic cable supports must all be adequately supplemented with metal supports to make the installation compliant. However, one practical difficulty of this approach is deciding how often a metal
Anyone still using plastic cable supports as the sole method of support needs to start thinking about finding an approved metal alternative for each product in order to stay compliant. Consider how you work, what equipment you currently have, and how the products are going to be used when choosing your replacements. Cable ties. Think about where the tie is being used, as not all metal cable ties are the same. Most metal cable ties being used are 316 grade stainless steel, and originally designed for use in harsh environments. However, these are relatively expensive, so Midfix has introduced a more economically priced steel cable tie which is ideal for general use, both internally and externally. Remember, you’ll also need a tensioning tool designed for use with metal ties. Cable mounts. When replacing plastic tie mounts, there are a number of options, depending on the method of installation and the size of cable being fitted. Screw or adhesive-fixed mounts can be replaced with a like-for-like metal equivalent, or for faster installation, the metal push mount
is simply pushed into a 6mm hole – so the likelihood of using incorrect fixings is removed. Our innovative firesafe tie mount can be used with all cordless nailing tools. The snap-off tab for holding and positioning the mount during installation means there’s no need to change noses, making fitting quick and easy. Cable clips. Metal versions of the traditional-style nail-fixed clip are available, and metal U and F clips can be used to secure cables within plastic trunking or as a standalone fixing. Single and double metal stag clips are quick and easy to install, and are ideal for T&E, FP and alarm cables. Cable harness. Metal cable clasps are a cost-effective way of installing cable bundles without using cable containment. Available in different sizes for wall or ceiling mounting, cables can be easily added or removed throughout the installation. Having selected the most appropriate cable fixings, remember that the screws and expansion plugs used also need to be fire-resistant to ensure the installation is safe. Buying from a reputable company with an 18th Edition compliant range means the products are not only often more innovative and higher quality, but come with expert advice and support. Midfix, midfix.co.uk
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SPONSORED FEATURE
THE ULTIMATE IN QUALITY AND CHOICE Although Category 5e and 6 cables are commonplace nowadays, confusion and misinformation about their application persists – particularly in light of the CPR Rating, which came into force in 2017. Emitex explains more.
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stablished in 2002, Emitex has gone from strength to strength, and today is considered one of the most recognisable brands in the voice and data networking sector. Stocked in nearly 400 electrical wholesalers across the UK, Emitex offers contractors an immediate solution for all of their data needs. All Emitex data products are manufactured to the highest quality and designed with a host of key benefits for the installer, enabling fast installation without sacrificing the high-performance requirements of the network. Furthermore, they only incorporate solid copper conductors.
Choosing the correct cable for the installation
FTP – Foil/Screened Twisted Pair (FTP)
Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) cable is the most common cable used in computer networking. Modern Ethernet, the most common data networking standard, utilises UTP cables. Here are some of the reasons as to why UTP has become such a popular cable:
Twisted pair cables are often shielded in an attempt to prevent electromagnetic interference. As the shielding is made of metal, it may also serve as a ground. However, a shielded or a screened twisted pair cable usually has a special grounding wire added to the construction, called a ‘drain wire’. FTP cable has a foil wrapper surrounding the pairs, as well as a drain wire running inside the foil.
• Low cost • Ease of installation • Only one cable type required for the whole network • Ability to handle high bit rates over short distances UTP cable is the type generally used on structured cabling schemes, and is also the most common type of datacoms cable used in the UK. An example of a UTP cable is EM02.001.
Why have cabling standards? Standards are necessary in structured cabling to give a template for us to work to, they also tell us what the minimum requirements of our cabling are. They lay down the cable and component performance criteria and specify the testing standards. The latest European standards under development state that CCA (copper coated aluminium) cables are not permitted (this is not to be confused with the CPR rating of CCA). The main cabling standard bodies are: • ANSI TIA/EIA – USA Standards – TIA/EIA 568-D • ISO – International Standards – ISO11801-2 • CENELEC – European Standards - (BS) EN 50173-1 • CPR Ratings –all Emitex cables meet at least ECA standards
Emitex data products enable fast installation without sacrificing the high-performance requirements of the network
Category 5 cable systems are easy to install, with a bandwidth capacity of 100MHz. Category 6 cable systems, however, offer a far greater bandwidth of 250MHz, which in reality allows for a degree of future proofing many installations.
Cable categories UTP cable is made specifically for datacoms transmissions. The pairs within the cable are carefully twisted throughout the length of the cable to provide a high specification. By increasing the number and consistency of the twists, the cable manufacturer can enhance performance of the cable. Cables are categorised according to their performance. For example, a CAT-5e cable is able to transmit frequencies of up to 100MHz, while a CAT-6 cable has a bandwidth of 250MHZ.
Emitex cable When using Emitex cable, you will be installing a cable of the highest quality and reliability that is manufactured to the highest possible standards, including CPR. Emitex offers CAT-5e and CAT-6 cable in metre marked runs of 305M in excellent packaging, ensuring that the cable stays in an excellent condition and never tangles when pulling. The Emitex range of cables includes UTP, LSOH (low smoke), FTP (foil/ screened), and external in CAT-5e and CAT6. Emitex also offers CAT-5e UTP in many colours, such as grey, red, green, yellow, and blue. Emitex also offers a wide range of patch leads in many different lengths and colours, for both CAT-5e and CAT-6, to complete any installation. Emitex, emitex.co.uk
74 | October 2019
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SPECIAL FEATURE
Unitrunk’s Steve Whyte (left) with Leighton Wilkinson (right) from First Call Electrical.
A RAPID REFURBISHMENT FOR FIRST CALL Electrical contractor, First Call Electrical, has saved thousands on an office-to-residential refurbishment project thanks to the speed of installation and loadbearing capabilities of the Unitrunk RIS (Rapid Installation Systems) cable management range.
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ocated between Birmingham and Coventry – close to Birmingham Airport, Birmingham International Railway Station and the NEC – the project involves a conversion of the four-storey, former Severn Trent headquarters building, into 53 luxury apartments for developer, Eaton Red Property. Installation of all incoming electrical supplies, and both power and data networks in the communal areas, is being provided by First Call Electrical. The company is also responsible for inspection and testing of the domestic installation in each apartment, which is being carried out by another contractor.
First Call Electrical used Unitrunk’s 600mm EasyConnect cable basket to take the heavy-duty cabling from the switch room via a riser to each level of the building after consulting the detailed engineering specifications in the company’s catalogue. Leighton Wilkinson, from First Call Electrical, explains, “After talking through the specification with Unitrunk’s Business Development Manager from their Wolverhampton depot, Steve Whyte, it was clear that the 600mm EasyConnect cable basket would provide an ideal, cost effective and rapid installation solution for the job, providing savings on both materials and labour.” The new 600mm EasyConnect cable basket risers have been installed within an existing dry riser, which has been compartmentalised to allow the
electrical cabling, AOV and dry riser to be accommodated within the existing building services route. For the communal areas on the ground, first and second floors, First Call Electrical has re-used the building’s existing cable management installation for the new cabling, along with a parallel route of Unitrunk’s UniKlip cable tray to accommodate data and LV cabling for phone, TV, internet, door entry and fire alarm systems. At third floor level, all the cable management in the communal areas has been replaced with Unitrunk’s UniKlip. In addition, First Call Electrical has also used 100mm EasyConnect cable basket in the switch room for the cables that extend between the smart meters for each apartment and fused switches, along with Unitrunk 6x6 cable trunking for the
armoured cabling terminations. Wilkinson continues, “I have never used Unitrunk cable management before, but the ease and speed of use, the functionality of the products, the level of service I received and the cost benefits are all compelling reasons for me to choose Unitrunk again in the future. “It’s very easy to fall into the trap of using the same old cable management systems for every job, but I’m glad I did a bit of research and got in touch with my local Unitrunk commercial lead because it has helped us save time and money on this job.” Unitrunk, unitrunk.co.uk
QUALITY BRITISH MADE CABLE t: 01302 821700 e: sales@doncastercables.com doncastercables.com 8545 Doncaster Cables 224 x 40mm adverts.indd 1
23/09/2019 10:32
October 2019 | 77
SPECIAL FEATURE
CABLING
A NEW GENERATION OF OFFSHORE CABLES Barry Larcombe, Sales Director – Low Frequency at Huber+Suhner UK, explains why longer life and low maintenance are key to the future of offshore, and introduces a new generation of offshore cables.
Achieving more costeffective systems
C
ommunication, mobility and security are the mainstays of modern society and require high-quality connectivity to ensure that they work. Hightech and intelligent control and communication systems are becoming increasingly important and must perform reliably in accordance with highprecision standards that meet the moststrict safety requirements, even under extreme environmental conditions. When looking at designing communications systems for the offshore market, there are a number of factors
Huber+Suhner has developed a new generation of cables that address the numerous challenges faced by the offshore industry
that need to be taken into consideration including, the distance that the data must travel, the remoteness of the installation, the amount of data that must be transmitted, and the availability of the technology. Industrial and offshore facilities are often accessible only in difficult conditions. Therefore, removal, adjustments, or emergency maintenance of the network requires an extreme level of resource. For this reason, the system must be made up of products that feature exceptional performance, quality, and durability to ensure the reliable transmission of energy, signal, and data through the most demanding and tough outdoor conditions.
With so many variables in place, offshore networks need to be made up of highquality, efficient and easy to install solutions. The products must provide maximum resistance to interference, absolute electrical isolation between all communication groups and proven to be extremely watertight, dust tight and resistant to mud and corrosion. In order to meet all of the necessary requirements while keeping the total cost of ownership low, it is imperative that offshore network solutions have a longer life span and grant easy-installation and replacement requiring low-maintenance. It is also beneficial if they have the capability to withstand higher ambient temperatures, are lighter in weight and smaller dimensionally – all without reducing the quality and safety aspect.
Future-proofing the offshore industry, whatever it brings Huber+Suhner has developed a new generation of offshore cables that address the numerous challenges faced by the offshore industry – comprising maximum resistance to interference, absolute electrical isolation between all communication groups and proven to be extremely watertight, dust tight and resistant to mud and corrosion, all in one product. Radox stands for ‘radiation X-linked’ and describes the process of an electronbeam-crosslinked high-performance compound that meets the extreme offshore
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78 | October 2019
23/09/2019 10:32
CABLING
requirements. The innovative technology possesses better abrasion resistance and provides greater cut resistance, compared to other technologies. As pressure upon the industry continues to mount, Huber+Suhner draws on its extensive expertise and the innovative technology that has been used successfully since the 1970s to achieve notable improvements in the thermal, mechanicals and chemical properties of the cable insulation material. Utilising the Radox electron-beam crosslinked technology, the solution is proven to provide the unique properties required for developing and manufacturing technically superior products that are resilient and robust to meet offshore market needs. To keep connections running smoothly, the Radox cable also boasts better safety features for handling the enormous amount of resources, with core cables being low smoke and resistant to melting in the event of a short circuit – ultimately minimising repairs and the potential for hazardous fume inhalation. The Radox OFL cable by Huber+Suhner can withstand high temperatures, and is flame retardant, with reduced wall thickness and easy process qualities making it the ideal insulating material for wires and cables in industrial and offshore applications.
SPECIAL FEATURE
The new Radox OFL cable features better abrasion resistance and provides greater cut resistance, compared to other technologies
A durable and flexible solution The Radox cables from Huber+Suhner are designed and manufactured in accordance with international standards, as well as customer-specific requirements. Radox has been approved and certified by classification societies such as DNV, ABS, BV, and CCS. The lightweight cable design can offer end users up to 60% off weight and up to 70% on space savings, which can equate to several hundred thousand pounds in structural design savings. Radox OFL cable is proven to be extremely flexible to cope with a smaller bend radius, compared to the standard offshore cables. For installations requiring several hundred kilometres of cables, this can mean many man-days are recovered on
installation time. Subsequently, due to the diameter reduction of the cable, cable accessories – such as cable glands, trays, ladders and connectors, which can be highly expensive – can be designed smaller and therefore provide an overall saving on cost, weight and space. All Radox cables are fully e-beam cross-linked for highest mechanical strength and extreme resistance against the weather. The OFL cable lifetime is enhanced by a factor of eight compared to the standard 90°C offshore cables, and thus heavily reduces the maintenance costs in the long run. With numerous variables to consider and with ever-increasing demands, high-tech and intelligent control and
Huber+Suhner, hubersuhner.com
DEBBIE ENSELL
Projects (also a keen walker)
A WINDOW INTO CABLE MANAGEMENT
communication systems will remain critical for the future of the offshore industry. Solutions that perform reliably in accordance with high-precision standards and meet the most-strict safety requirements, all while remaining low cost, are the solutions that system engineers need to invest in. As technological advancements continue, the pressure on the offshore industry is going to mount. Solutions that offer high-quality, low-cost, reliable and easy installations while future-proofing the system are going to be crucial.
Debbie, Marshall-Tufflex’s resident dog walker, is deeply passionate about the environment. Everyone knows that our PVC-U cable management products are high quality and competitively priced. But we’d bet you didn’t know that they’re produced using 80% recycled content, with material from windows otherwise destined for landfill. We are proud to say that our PVC-U products are Reassuringly Recycled.
JOIN US IN OUR VISION AND FIND OUT MORE AT MARSHALL-TUFFLEX.COM
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19/09/2019 10:02:22
CABLING
SPECIAL FEATURE
MEETING THE NEW SAFETY STANDARDS Chris Sayers, Commercial Manager at Labgear, looks at how to navigate the latest standards when installing cables into buildings – with particular regard to fire safety.
Choosing the right cable In addition to deciding whether you need Cat6 or Cat6A, or what type of fibre-optic cable or which coaxial cable works, there is another assessment you need to make if you are installing cables into a building – fire safety. The rules covering the classification of cable have changed in recent years, and whilst most manufacturers have kept up, the advice to installers has been confused. This article will bring you up to speed and give you a basis for making your own decisions.
regulation, it automatically became legally binding in every state and is incorporated into British Standard BS 6701:2016 +A1:2017. There are now seven classes. The lowest, ‘Fca’, is unclassified and should not be installed in a building. As a result, you no longer have to rely on terms like “low smoke and fume” or “LSFZH”, which have differing meanings for different manufacturers. Under the CPR, product labelling is also improved to include the classification,
Euroclass harmonised system for classification of cables
Are you ‘installing’ the cable in a building? It sounds like a stupid question, but the word ‘installing’ has a particular meaning with regard to your risk assessment. Installing in this context means permanently fitting into pathways which are hidden or to which access is limited. Basically, if your cables cannot be easily accessed by the fire brigade, they need to conform to the relevant reaction to fire class.
What are the standards? The Construction Project Regulations (CPR) lay down harmonised rules for the marketing of construction products in the EU. The Regulation provides a common technical language to assess the performance of construction products, including the reaction to fire of telecommunications cable. Being a
and every manufacturer will also have a Declaration of Conformity available for you.
Which class should I choose? The British Standards Institute (BSI) stated that the recommended minimum Euroclass cable that can be installed in a building is Class Cca. This has caused some confusion, because this is a recommendation and not a requirement. The people that could make this a legal
requirement are the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). According to the British Cables Association (BCA), “To date, MHCLG has consistently said that it will not make any prescriptive legal requirement on reaction to fire for cables via amendments to The Building Regulations.” Designers and specifiers therefore have to make their own decision based on the particular building and their own
assessment of the risks. This is not a one size fits all solution, and the increased use of data cables is definitely one new risk that should be taken into account, especially in more complex buildings or near fire escape routes. The British Standard BS 6701 seems to offer two choices, dependant on the risk. To end on a cautionary note, the Fibreoptic Industry Association made this comment: “An installer and his customer could ignore the requirements of a standard, but caution would be advisable since if anything were to go wrong, the national standards tend to be the first port of call in any civil or criminal litigation.” Labgear is a British brand established back in the 1930s. The company is perhaps most widely recognised for its TV reception, HDMI signal distribution and metering equipment. Labgear, labgear.co.uk
QUALITY BRITISH MADE CABLE t: 01302 821700 e: sales@doncastercables.com doncastercables.com 8545 Doncaster Cables 224 x 40mm adverts.indd 1
23/09/2019 10:32
October 2019 | 81
SPECIAL FEATURE
CIRCUIT PROTECTION & SWITCHGEAR
RCD TESTING – BACK TO BASICS Chaz Andrews, Technical Manager at Doepke UK, looks at the importance of RCD tests, and provides three specific examples – each of which requires unique considerations.
I
n practical situations and under time constraints, it is easy to lose sight of why we carry out specific tests on RCDs, and under what conditions those tests may or may not be relevant. Understanding the basics of any subject enables us to make reasoned decisions when faced with an unfamiliar situation, application or an apparent problem.
The difference between earth leakage and residual fault current
Figure 2. EV charging leakage current Mode 2
Before commencing RCD testing for an installation, make a clear differentiation between earth leakage current, that is current that flows mainly to earth via the protective earth conductor (PE); and residual fault current that flows to earth via a fault path e.g. person, damaged insulation, water, conductive dust, detergent. The Regulations and Codes of Practice refers to functional testing (for instance, checking the operation of the device under conditions based on the leakage current that will present during normal operation and verification tests; such as checking the operation of the device under simulated fault conditions.) The tests performed should be appropriate for the installation / application.
Figure 1. Domestic leakage current with appliances running
82 | October 2019
When considering which tests to perform on an RCD, think in terms of: 1. Functional tests - Regulation 643.10; to verify that the device will operate correctly under normal service conditions, e.g. unwanted tripping due to an accumulation of leakage currents (see the earth leakage currents section below). 2. Verification tests - Regulation 643.7, 643.7.1 (2) and 643.8; for effectiveness of protection measures, e.g. tests replicating residual fault current conditions (see the residual fault currents section below). 3. Any specific requirements of the installation / application – Reference Section 7 and/or Codes of Practice.
Earth leakage currents All electrical circuits leak current due to natural (parasitic) capacitance between live conductors and earth, and any capacitors contained in electrical appliances. For instance, think of the leakage current as the level of current that flows to earth when there are no insulation faults present in the circuit. Earth leakage current must be taken into account as part of the circuit design parameters, for selection of RCDs, PE conductor sizing and PE conductor connection, based on the equipment leakage current – Reference 543.7.
Example 1 – Leakage current For a modern domestic ring main, if you connected a residual current analyser on the output side of the RCD, the leakage current should be sinusoidal (50Hz) with some possible distortion, based on the types of appliance connected / running at the time of the test – see figure one. The shape of the wave form and values of leakage current reflect the
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SPECIAL FEATURE
CIRCUIT PROTECTION & SWITCHGEAR
characteristics of the appliances connected to the supply. Harmonics already present on the incoming supply due to the increasing number of PV installations, switch mode power supplies, LED lighting, and other solid-state controlled appliances, can also have an effect on total leakage current. In this example, placing a leakage current clamp meter at the origin of the RCD output, would indicate that the total leakage current is in the region of 7 - 8mA. Regulation 531.3.2 (ii) states that to avoid unwanted tripping, total leakage current shall not be more than 30% of the rated residual operating current of the RCD protecting the circuit i.e. for a ring main protected by a 30mA RCD, approximately 9mA. In this example, adding a couple of additional appliances to the circuit would exceed the recommendations in the regs.
Functional test for a domestic ring main and lighting Residual fault currents The term ‘residual fault current’ has circuits The half times test (AC setting) and a ramp test (AC setting) can be used to check the sensitivity of the RCD to earth leakage currents that flow during normal operation. The AC setting is selected on the RCD tester, irrespective of the type of RCD installed, as we are considering leakage current, not residual current. This test can help identify potential problems where a circuit has a number of appliances running at the same time, or where there is an intermittent problem with an RCD tripping. With the introduction of RCD protection for lighting circuits, and the use of more LED lighting per circuit (increased leakage currents), this test may need to be considered for safety reasons i.e. nuisance tripping of an RCD protecting lighting in stairways etc. When designing a lighting installation that includes LED lighting in kitchens and bathrooms, allow for increased leakage current due to steam and humidity around lighting fittings.
Example 2 – EV charging leakage current Mode 2 A functional test for an RCD associated with a Mode 2 charging socket: the half times test may not be relevant to a dedicated circuit associated with a single charge point, as there are unlikely to be safety issues related to unwanted tripping of the RCD – assuming the vehicle is not being used by the emergency services. Unstable supply voltage / harmonics may lead to nuisance tripping, as this will result in increased leakage currents. A ramp test on the RCD is always a good starting point when trying to solve problems with nuisance tripping. At present, the code of practice for EV charging installations does not recommend any specific functional tests for RCDs.
84 | October 2019
been used to focus the attention on the difference between currents that flow to earth during fault free operation (earth leakage) and currents that flow to earth under fault conditions (residual current) i.e. RCDs do not differentiate between earth leakage or fault currents. The location of the fault within a circuit or connected appliance, along with the characteristics of the appliance, will determine what type of residual current flows through the RCD.
Example 3 – Residual current A person who plugs in a modern washing machine and manages to touch the live pin on the plug will receive an electric shock and a type AC fault current due to the AC supply, and it will continue to flow through them to earth until the RCD trips. If we take the same appliance (see figure three) and consider a situation where the case is accidently live due to a fault IF1 located at the output of the DC link, a pulsed (type A) residual current will flow to earth.
Figure 3. Representation of a modern washing machine
Figure 2. EV charging leakage current Mode 2
If the fault was located on the output of the control section / motor supply, a fault current IF2 would flow to earth. IF2 would be generated at a frequency related to the 50Hz supply, the switching frequency of the control section and the motor speed. In this example, we can see that a person using the appliance is exposed to three different types of residual current hazard, depending on where the fault occurs. Type A and Type F residual current faults in this example are only present under certain fault conditions, and are related to the location of the fault – and electric shock would result from failure of basic protection.
RCD verification tests RCD verification tests 643.7 are to verify that the RCD will perform effectively under the conditions required for protection. The selection of the test current is important when considering what protection function the RCD is performing. Selecting a higher multiple of test current for fault protection does not necessarily reflect the most dangerous situation. For example, if the RCD is providing fire protection, the risk is
from low values of sustained residual current across the surface of combustible materials. Studies have shown that under certain conditions, currents of 80mA can result in ignition of combustible materials. Testing at one-times verifies that the RCD will disconnect within the required time, for low values of fault current i.e. 300mA RCD, providing fire protection is selected on the basis that a residual current of less than 300mA could flow for less than 300ms (non-delay) or less than 500ms (selective). In this situation, testing at five times is not that relevant, as it is the lower values of sustained residual current that pose the most risk. Conversely, for RCDs providing additional protection (Regulation 415.1.1), testing at one times and five times, may be appropriate to verify the performance of the protection function, as a sustained value of low residual current could be as dangerous as a high value for a shorter duration. However, Regulation 643.8 does state that testing at five times is sufficient to prove effectiveness of the protection function. Doepke UK, doepke.co.uk
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CIRCUIT PROTECTION & SWITCHGEAR
SPECIAL FEATURE
In a recent survey on Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs), the majority of respondents agreed that the technology can help to prevent electrical fires. Here, Wylex explains everything you need to know before your next installation. What is an arc fault? It’s a fault in the electrical installation that produces sustained arcing (in or between conductors). This could be caused by insulation faults in cables, defective electrical connections or faulty electrical appliances. In serious cases, arc faults can cause overheating, igniting surrounding flammable material and causing a fire.
Do AFDDs nuisance trip? No. Each AFDD will respond to the characteristics present on the circuit the AFDD is connected to. The product standard (BS EN 62606) includes a range of tests to ensure that AFDDs will not respond to ‘operational sparking’ which occurs in equipment such as vacuum cleaners and washing machines.
What are the benefits of using AFDDs? AFDDs detect and disconnect dangerous arc faults which would otherwise go unnoticed by older technologies, such as circuit breakers and RCDs. They fit into consumer units or distribution boards, just like MCBs. Using AFDDs reassures you that your installation is fully compliant (but to a higher standard than before the 18th Edition became effective).
Do AFDDs work on ring circuits? Yes. AFDDs detect dangerous arcing faults on ring circuits, spurs, radials and leads – whatever the mode of connection.
Are AFDDs proven? AFDDs have been developed and tested using the same process that brought about RCDs and RCBOs. This process is robust, reliable and recognised by British, European and International electrical standards organisations.
How do I test an AFDD? Wylex AFDDs carry out a self-test function when initially powered up, and the AFDD repeats this self-test function regularly. They also have a test button (just like an RCDs or RCBOs), which you can use during the initial verification or EICR. Model certificates now include AFDDs among the devices listed, with space for test results. How easy is it to find a fault? The process is broadly the same as for an RCD or MCB. For added precaution, coloured lights indicate the type of fault that has occurred.
Will I need to install a larger consumer unit? No, absolutely not. In fact, sometimes a smaller consumer unit is used. This is because Wylex AFDDs have integral RCDs, meaning there is no need for separate RCDs. Can AFDDs be retrofitted to existing installations? Yes, Wylex AFDDs can be retrofitted in the majority of cases. However, if the Wylex balcony-style busbar is used, it’s wise to talk to Wylex technical services. What do the guidelines say? The 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations outlines the need to protect against the dangers of insulation faults, high temperatures, arcing, burning and ignition of fire. We’ve outlined some of the key information you need to know. Chapter 13 (Fundamental Principles): The requirements of this chapter are intended to provide for the safety of persons, livestock, and property against the dangers and damage which may arise in the reasonable use of electrical installations.
Regulations 131.1 lists several risks. The following applies: In electrical installations, risk of injury may result from: • Shock currents • Excessive temperatures likely to cause burns, fires and other injurious effects • Arcing or burning. 421.1.7 deals directly with AFDDs: AFDDs, to BS EN62606, are recommended as a means of providing additional protection against fire caused by arc faults in AC final circuits. Important: The term ‘recommended’ suggests there is scope for choice. However, if a decision is made not to follow the recommendations, that decision must be justified by the user of the standard. The Wylex Single Module AFDD is half the size of its predecessor, and combines the benefits of AFDD, MCB and RCD technology in one. Talk to a Wylex engineer before your next installation. Wylex, wylexreasons.co.uk
SPECIAL FEATURE
CIRCUIT PROTECTION & SWITCHGEAR
ONE GIANT LEAP FOR ELECTRICAL SAFETY Bringing three levels of safety in one easy-fit single module, the new Starbreaker Mini AFDD from Crabtree represents a major step forward in electrical safety.
T
he Wiring Regulations define danger as “Risk of injury to persons from: fire, electric shock, burns, arcing and explosion arising from the use of electrical energy.” Not that this should surprise us, as electricity is a dangerous commodity. In 2017/18, there were 13,070 fires from an electrical origin in England. Across the UK, the figure is even higher, and electrical fires are continuing to occur at virtually the same rate year on year, even though many of these incidents are preventable. Perhaps this is partly because buildings have more items of electrical equipment in them than ever before? Electrical fires caused by arc faults typically occur at poorly made terminations, in damaged leads and cables, or through old, weak and failing cable insulation. Dave Enefer, Product Manager at Crabtree, explains, “The wiring regulations (BS7671) set out requirements for electrical installations in the UK, including requirements for protection of persons, livestock and property against the risk from fires that may be generated and propagated in electrical installations. “Designers and installers need to ensure that the installation is arranged so that the risk of ignition from high temperatures or electric arc is minimised, and that protection from harmful thermal effects is provided. Protection requirements include protecting against fire caused by insulation faults, arcs and sparks and high temperature.”
Detecting the arcing conditions Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs) can decrease the likelihood of electrical fires from these conditions by detecting the arcing conditions before the overheating and ignition of flammable materials occurs. In countries like the USA, where use of
88 | October 2019
AFDDs was mandated some years ago, there’s been a noted reduction of this type of incident. No surprise then, that several EU countries also mandate the use of AFDDs. Installers can now improve electrical safety, without any extra effort, via the new Starbreaker combined AFDD-RCBO. This innovative product integrates arc fault detection with RCD and MCB capability in a revolutionary single DIN module, delivering maximum safety in the minimum footprint. It fully caters for the requirements and recommendations of the 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations.
Serial and parallel arc faults Importantly, Starbreaker Mini AFDDs protect against both serial and parallel arc faults – providing an extra layer of protection against the risks from arcing referred to in the 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations – while also helping future-proof installations against ever-changing regulations. Serial arc faults are typically found in loose connections or frayed/damaged/ crushed or impacted conductors. Serial arc faults are faults that occur within the current path within a conductor or a loose connection in the circuit. These arcing conditions can cause overheating and lead to ignition of cable insulation and surrounding materials. Parallel arc faults, however, are typically found with damaged or degraded insulation that allows current flow between conductors. These arcing conditions can cause overheating and lead to ignition of cable insulation and surrounding materials. Parallel arc faults cannot be detected
“The AFDD is a two-pole switching device which will totally isolate any faulty circuit or appliance, ensuring peace of mind for installers, homeowners and investors.”
by MCBs, RCDs or RCBOs because the current flow in these conditions will always be less than the operating load current. Parallel arc faults are not short circuit faults. While RCDs and MCBs protect against overcurrent, short circuit and earth leakage protection, they’re unable to detect arcing, leaving a potential gap in the safety provision.
Three layers of protection Until recently, installers have had no access to AFDDs. Early models were two modules wide and took up too much space to be used in the already crowded consumer unit – which limited uptake. The new Starbreaker Mini AFDD overcomes this barrier by combining all three layers of protection in one DIN module. Using digital technology to constantly monitor circuit conditions, the Starbreaker Mini AFDD is able to distinguish between ‘operational sparking’ – for example, in washing machines and vacuum cleaner motors – and abnormal activity that could denote a potentially dangerous event. Complying fully with the requirements of BS7671, this single module AFDD is a two-pole switching device which will totally isolate any faulty cabling, ensuring complete peace of mind for installers, homeowners and investors. As an additional benefit, the new Starbreaker Mini AFDD-RCBO is an easy to fit ‘plug and play’ option that can be installed into any appropriate Starbreaker consumer unit, without the need for special assembly or new busbars. Enefer notes, “Whatever the age of the Starbreaker unit, the new Mini AFDD slots easily into place, so it’s equally suitable for new builds, upgrades and retrofits to provide additional protection.” Electrium, electrium.co.uk/mini-AFDD
The new Crabtree Starbreaker Mini AFDD
Surge
Protection With the 18th Edition of the wiring regulations in place, a number of key amendments that affect both electrical designers and installers have taken effect. Surge Protection is an area covered that has inherited a new set of test standards that installers need to consider during risk assessment. In many cases, surge protection devices may be required for both commercial and residential installations and SPDs used must meet the safety requirements in order to protect against overvoltages. We offer a range of SPDs as well as 18th Edition compliant boards with surge protection included. Check out our 18th Edition Hub on our website for more information on our 18th Edition solutions. hager.co.uk/18thedition
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06/03/2019 12:02:52
COMPANY SHOWCASE
SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY
CENTIEL TO SPONSOR ELECTRICAL REVIEW AWARDS UPS manufacturer, Centiel UK, has confirmed it is one of the sponsors for the Electrical Review Excellence Awards 2020. Centiel will sponsor the data centre build and design product of the year category for these prestigious awards which recognise projects that embrace the latest in electrical engineering, display forward-thinking design and implementation, and champion the highest environmental, safety and energy efficiency standards. Mike Elms, Managing Director, Centiel UK, explains, “This year was the first time that Data Centre Review magazine has been involved in these important awards, and this enabled an expanded range of categories including new awards for products and projects, opening up the floor to the data centre industry. As experts and trusted advisors in this growing sector, we are keen to be part of that. “In 2019, Centiel was shortlisted for three ER Excellence Award categories: power project of the year, power product of the year and energy saving project of the year, and so we felt it was right to ‘put something back’ by sponsoring the data centre build and design product of the year award next year.” For further information visit centiel.co.uk
NEW EMERGENCY LIGHT TEST SWITCH FROM ESP ESP’s Duceri range of emergency lighting products has been expanded to include two new emergency light test switches. Designed to test batteries, lamps and duration function of emergency lighting luminaires in accordance with current emergency lighting standard BS5266, the new products will help building owners and responsible persons to maintain compliance. These automatic, keyoperated emergency lighting test switches are permanently wired to the emergency luminaire supply. The key switch is used to interrupt the supply for a preprogrammed period of time. At the end of that period, the supply to the luminaries is automatically reinstated, so there’s no risk of depleting the batteries in the emergency fitting by leaving them connected for prolonged periods. There are two models to choose from - standard LED display or countdown digital display. They each feature four pre-programmed test intervals – 10, 30, 60 and 180 minutes. There is the option for an audio buzzer alert for completion of duration test. They are compact in design, measuring 86 x 86 x 33mm, and they are manufactured from the antimicrobial material urea formaldehyde. For further information visit espuk.com
EATON LAUNCHES CORROSION PROOF INDUSTRIAL SOUNDER AND BEACON Eaton has launched a new range of sounder and sounder beacons for industrial safety and controls. The X10 is corrosion proof and has been designed to IP69K and IK08, making it one of the toughest beacons available on the market. Housed in a class-leading, fade resistant polycarbonate and ASA, housing, the X10 will work in even the most demanding environments; protecting people and property in temperatures as low as -40oC through to the extremes of 70oC heat and 100% humidity. After three years in development and rigorous third-party testing, X10 offers the reassurance of a 10-year warranty, yet is priced for plant managers with hard pressed budgets who don’t want to compromise on safety and performance. James Morgan, Product Manager at Eaton, says, “We set out to design a new range of beacons and sounder beacons that were quick to install and easy to maintain, whilst providing a robust solution for a huge variety of environments, from hot, dusty enclosed spaces through to the cold and corrosive applications associated with salt water, allowing X10 to achieve MED approval for marine applications.” The X10 range offers six LED beacon colours and can be fitted or swapped out in under 30 seconds, as it uses gold plated sprung contacts to provide power. It is also available in three housing sizes, and, depending on which is selected, produces sound outputs of between 90 to 120dB. For further information visit eaton.com
HULTAFORS LAUNCH A NEW RANGE OF SNAP-OFF KNIVES Hultafors Tools has launched a new range of ‘Snap-Off’ knives for professional craftspeople. With 13 different knives and four longlasting precision blades, these all-round, ergonomic knives are designed and built to suit a wide range of jobs on-site. From industrial and warehouse applications to specialist work on-site, the new range can be used to cut boxes open, shape plasterboard and trim flooring. Symmetrically designed so that the blades can turned over, they’re adaptable for both left- and right-hand use so that left-handed craftspeople can adapt the knife rather than their own usage. What’s more, the blades are available in three widths of 9, 18, and 25mm, with different blends of sharpness and long life built in to suit regular hard work on-site. For further information visit hultafors.co.uk
THE NEXT GENERATION OF WORKWEAR TROUSERS October sees the next generation of work trouser choices from the premier brand of working clothes for professional tradespeople, Snickers Workwear. There’s the Flexiwork 2.0 trousers, designed for craftspeople who want nothing but the best. These high-spec trousers are made of durable four-way stretch fabric that offers a new level of comfort and freedom of movement. Then there’s the ‘loose-fit’ AllroundWork stretch trousers with a classic Snickers Workwear look and feel, plus the new FlexiWork denim work trousers where ‘workwear meets streetwear’ in these slim-fitting work trousers made of washed stretch denim. Also take a look at the new regular-fit RUFFWork Canvas+ heavy duty trousers. Women can enjoy the ALLroundWork womens stretch trousers, specially designed and shaped to fit the female anatomy with a narrower waist for optimal comfort and freedom of movement. All in all, probably the best possible additions to the Snickers work trouser range with something to suit everyone, whoever you are, wherever you’re working and whatever you’re doing on-site. For further information visit snickersworkwear.co.uk
90 | October 2019
SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY
SAVING ENERGY WITH DANLERS MICROWAVE SWITCHES Danlers, manufacturer of energy saving lighting and HVAC controls, has launched a new range of cost-effective mid-range microwave presence detection switches for the automatic control of lighting and ventilation. The products detect movement within the detection area and control the load accordingly. Each product is suitable for switching most lighting loads, including LED, and have a detection range of up to 12 metres. MWCEFL is suitable for flush mounting into false or plasterboard ceilings. MWCEFL has a snap fit cover allowing for easy adjustment of time lag and lux level functions. Its slim profile is visually unobtrusive, making it suitable for corridors, offices, washrooms etc. MW6A2C IP67 and MW2A IP67 are IP67 rated and are suitable for surface mounting on walls or ceilings. With an operating temperature range of -30ºC to 70ºC, these controls may be suitable for cold storage facilities as well as factories and warehouses etc. MW6A2C IP67 has two channel output for controlling two separate circuits, such as lights and fans.
COMPANY SHOWCASE
BESA BOX SOCKET OUTLET RANGE Metway’s BESA box socket outlet range is available in three, four and six-pole versions and is designed to fit straight onto a standard round UK plastic or metal Besa conduit box. Typical applications for this type of connector would be any installation that has fire regulations insisting on mechanical containment of cabling within the building fabric, such as where the use of conduit and conduit boxes is required. Typical examples are hospitals, retail, government buildings and council offices, airports, and large multi-use office blocks – especially for CAT ‘A’ installations. The easy fit and connect Besa box is supplied with fixing screws, while the sixpole version has an extension ring. Easy loop in and out is achieved by the provision of double stacked terminals. The latching feature ensures and maintains positive connection in accordance with EN61535.
For further information visit danlers.co.uk For further information visit metway.co.uk
KEY LOCKABLE SWITCHES AND SOCKETS FROM SCOLMORE Scolmore supplies a range of key operated switches and sockets across its vast range of wiring accessories collections, offering contractors and specifiers multiple choice when it comes to procuring products that have this required additional security feature. Providing the means to lock and unlock the power supply to the sockets and switches makes them ideal in a range of applications where security is of prime importance – hotels, schools and care homes, for example. With only the key holder able to operate them, this will prevent any unauthorised use of the switch or socket outlets. The range includes 20A double pole lockable switches and 13A one gang double pole lockable sockets, and they are available in all of the click wiring accessories collections – Mode, Polar, Metal Clad, Deco, Deco+, Define and Definity. The sockets are fitted with two earth terminals to provide a double earth facility when installations require a high integrity protected connections. The sockets also feature a neon indicator to give clear visual evidence of the on or off status of the socket outlet. For further information visit scolmore.com
MARTINDALE’S NEW PROVING UNITS VERIFY SAFETY AND CALIBRATION IN ONE Now available from Martindale Electric are the latest PDS and PDSX series of proving units. Smaller, lighter and with new options for calibration checking test equipment, Martindale’s next generation PDSX proving units enable contractors and maintenance teams to safely and simply prove the operation of voltage indicators, two pole testers and test lamps, plus common 18th Edition tester functions. The PDSX Series includes an additional CalCheck feature for verifying the calibration consistency of multifunction installation testers, providing confidence in the performance of all essential test equipment before and after measurement. Fast and easy to use, immediately supplying the full test voltage on contact, Martindale’s new proving units are suitable for proving two pole voltage indicators, and test lamps with voltage measurement ranges up to 440V and 690V. Featuring all the benefits of the industry standard Martindale PD440 and PD690, the new PDS and SX series of proving units come in a durable over moulded, low profile case, and include an MG3 detachable magnetic hanger, which enables the unit to be positioned securely nearby, ideal where space is limited or access difficult. For more information visit martindale-electric.co.uk
POWERBREAKER – STILL THE FOREFRONT OF RCD TECHNOLOGY Further amendments to the safety standards BS7288-2016 are due at the end of November 2019, and GreenBrook is the first to ensure its PowerBreaker RCD products adhere to the latest regulations. To explain in simple terms, the new standard requires type A RCDs and type AC RCDs. Type A RCDs can detect pulsating DC currents and surge faults that type AC RCDs may not detect. Pulsating DC currents are created from faults in modern electronic equipment, such as EV car chargers, solar panels, multi-media equipment, USB sockets, iPhone chargers, SONOS, Alexa etc. This new standard requires much more rigorous testing of the RCDs with high voltage and short circuit tests. Products that adhere to this standard have a more sensitive/stable trip window, so are a much safer defence against electrocution. Another visible change to this standard is the additional markings on the front plate and the coloured flag indicators, which must now be green and red. To keep with our stylishly designed front plate, these indicators are placed within the window. A red flag shows the device is ‘on’ with a live supply to the appliance. A green flag shows the device is safe with the supply to the appliance switched ‘off’. GreenBrook is part of the BEAMA Technical Committee, which helped to write the revised standard. For further information visit greenbrook.co.uk
HULTAFORS GROUP ACQUIRES CUSTOM LEATHERCRAFT The Hultafors Group, which owns Snickers Workwear, has now acquired CLC. The leading brand in the USA since 1983, CLC is North America’s premier designer, developer and marketer of ‘work gear’ for professional tradespeople. It’s a product range that includes softside tool carriers, nail bags, tool pouches, plus personal protective equipment. Custom LeatherCraft – commonly referred to as CLC in the USA, and as the Kuny’s Leather brand in Canada – prides itself on developing high quality work gear that combines innovative design and functionality, as well as great value for money. Peter Dumigan, Managing Director of the Hultafors Group UK, says, “We are delighted with this acquisition, given that the CLC work gear range complements the Snickers Workwear, Hellberg Safety, Hultafors Tools, Solid Gear and Toe Guard safety footwear product portfolios perfectly. “We will now be able to offer tradespeople an even more extensive range of top-quality premium brand products, ideally suited to the work they do on site.” For further information visit www.hultafors.co.uk
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COMPANY SHOWCASE
SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY
NEW AIRMASTER INFRARED HEATING RANGE The CED Electrical Group’s 25th anniversary year has so far seen many new Meridian and Axiom products – and now it’s the Airmaster brand’s turn to expand its space heating offering, with a new range of infrared heaters for patio or general outdoor use. Free standing heaters include 2kW IP34 rated twin element pedestal and tower heaters, while wall mounted options comprise IP65 rated 2kW and 3kW aluminum heaters, finished in black and complete with remote controllers – plus, a 2kW mini pull cord option. Completing the infrared range is the already established 1200W quartz heater, as well as a comprehensive selection of replacement elements. With fan, convector, oil filled radiator and panel heaters already in the range, these new infrared products both complement and strengthen the Airmaster offer of a one stop shop for space heating.
GOING GREEN – WITHOUT THE RISK Despite the advantages over traditional lighting, one of the main reasons why many organisations have still not converted from incandescent, halogen or compact fluorescent lamps is the high initial cost of installing LED lighting. Fortunately, there is an alternative – leasing LED lighting through monthly energy savings. Leasing enables businesses to fund lighting replacement programmes from their operating budgets; and leasing schemes, such as Goodlight’s Bright Plan, allow the replacement LED lighting to be paid for directly from energy savings. With no upfront cost, leasing schemes have zero impact on the cash reserves of the business. Companies can fund their new LED lighting completely out of their reduced energy costs, with extra left for the business every month. Leasing is tax-smart too, with fixed monthly costs 100% allowable under UK taxation rules. With Bright Plan, Goodlight guarantees all LED fittings for 50,000 hours, the equivalent of five years, making each LED lighting installation risk-free.
For further information visit cedelectrical.co.uk For further information, visit www.goodlight.co.uk
EX-OR’S LIGHTING CONTROL FOR DALI LIGHTING Ex-Or by Honeywell, the global manufacturer of lighting control solutions, has announced the availability of DALI64. Designed to make the benefits of lighting control easier to achieve than ever before, its clever technology is embedded into a passive infrared (PIR) sensor, rather than a traditional DIN rail or riser mounted box, to give a low total cost of ownership, no requirement for additional hardware, and simplified installation. Offering 64 light addresses and 64 device addresses, DALI64 is configured on the DALI 2 open protocol. When used as a standalone system, luminaires are connected via a standard five-core cable or a two-core DALI network cable, and up to 16 scenes and eight occupancy zones can be created to match user needs. Simple lighting commissioning is carried out using the intuitive Light Touch app on any smart device, which eliminates the usual problems associated with traditional DALI systems. Scenes and groups can be controlled through a variety of methods, including a low energy Bluetooth switch, which means no wires and no batteries. Nathan Cole, Global Product Manager at Ex-Or by Honeywell, explains, “By using a Light Touch on any smart device, the usual problems associated with traditional DALI systems are eliminated. With no additional controller or hardware, and reduced installation and maintenance costs, DALI64 works equally well in both new and retrofit projects for energy conscious building managers.” With greater recognition of the effect that a comfortable working environment has on employee wellbeing, good mental health and productivity, there is a now a significant focus on lighting within commercial buildings. A DALI64 system can assist in creating a human centric lighting solution that supports the circadian rhythm by automatically changing tone and colour – from warm white to daylight – in tune with any available natural light. It also considers the time of day, the position of the sun and even the time of year. For further information, visit www.honeywell.com
NEW ANTIMICROBIAL-PROTECTED ACCESS CONTROL DEVICES Contamination of clean environments could soon become a thing of the past, as Remsdaq launches its EntroPad range of access control readers, keypads and request to exit buttons with antimicrobial protection built in. Third party testing to ISO 22196:2011 proves that the integral antimicrobial protection on the new EntroPad devices kills up to 99.99% of E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria over a 24-hour period. This makes the EntroPad range ideal for use in access-controlled areas in hospitals, laboratories, surgeries, food manufacturing and preparation companies. Robin Koffler, Sales and Marketing Director at Remsdaq, says, “Without antimicrobial protection, access control devices can become a breeding ground for a wide range of highly infectious bacteria. “Every card reader, keypad or request to exit button touched by an infected person becomes a virtual petri dish. The new EntroPad access control devices help to eliminate this issue, reducing sick days caused by bacteria transmission and preserving the integrity of secure environments.” For further information, visit www.remsdaq.com
ELLIS’ INNOVATIVE TWIST GIVES PLENTY TO SHOUT ABOUT Ellis has given cable cleat installation an innovative new twist that will significantly reduce installation time and costs, and simplify the ordering process. The cable cleat manufacturer has designed and developed a twist foot fixing mechanism for use on all sizes and types of its best-selling standard cable cleats, Emperor and Vulcan+. The twist foot cleats, which are supplied pre-fitted, are suitable for all installations using cable channel and ladder with inverted rungs. There are single footed versions for cables in trefoil up to 58mm, and double footed versions for cables with diameters ranging from 59mm to 128mm. The single version locks in place with nothing more complex than a 90 degree turn and the tightening of the integral securing bolt, while the double footed version is secured with tabs that are simply rotated 90 degrees to engage the channel nut, before the securing bolt is tightened. For further information visit www.ellispatents.co.uk
92 | October 2019
SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY
COMPANY SHOWCASE
BUYERS’ GUIDE
SWA STRENGTHENS ITS MANAGEMENT TEAM SWA, the UK’s leading supplier of specialist wiring accessories, has boosted its management team with the appointment of Julie Banks to head up the company’s sales activities. An experienced sales professional, Banks (pictured) brings with her over 20 years’ experience in the electrical industry. “I’m delighted to join SWA,” Banks comments. “The company is a major player in the specialist wiring accessory field, and I’m excited to add value to such a committed team”. For further information, visit www.swaonline.co.uk
C.K SHINES SPOTLIGHT ON NEW PROMOTION C.K is set to launch its exciting new autumn/winter promotion – Spotlight – featuring a fantastic selection of new products, product deals and value packs, all offering great value for money. Running in-store from September 2 to December 31, stylish, eyecatching Spotlight brochures will feature unbeatable savings on a great range of products across the C.K, C.K Magma, C.K Classic, Avit and Kasp brands. Brand new innovations and incredible discounts on products used by trade professionals day in and day out will be available in the Spotlight promotion. The brand new products on offer include a 12-piece coloured 3/8 inch Sure Drive socket and spanner set; a 17-piece coloured ¼ inch Sure Drive socket set; a colour coded combination spanner set of 12; the Premium Kit Pro; and the return of C.K’s popular 15W rechargeable flood light featuring a versatile clamp mechanisn and a 360° swivel head. For further information, visit www.carlkammerling.com
SOFTWARE
Web Worker for mobile Available as an add on to the Cypher1 Software, this mobile application enables your field operatives to pick up their jobs on their phone or device, action them accordingly and upload the information, (with attachments), directly to the Cypher1 system.
Benefits • simple, clear and easy interface • customer signature capture • field operative star rating scheme • pre-defined work description text • time and date stamps, time on site • first time complete (FTC) • form & photo uploads • van stock
Availab le an Andro as iOS App id/ ,o browser- r based
Forms such as Risk Assessment; H & S; Gas Safety Certificates and the like, can be uploaded to the device and subsequently completed documentation can be received back at the office.
Paperless… seamless! The easiest to use mobile application for field operatives ever. Its simple interface and immediate usability means it will slot into any company’s work environment quickly and efficiently. With information from your jobs hitting the office in real time, your whole job flow procedure is streamlined and standardised, meaning invoicing can be achieved far quicker.
TEL: 01905 640064
EMAIL: sales@secsol.co.uk
www.secestimating.com
WIRING ACCESSORIES
THE BENEFITS OF LOADSTAR STACK UP Making stacked MCB distribution boards easier, safer and faster to install and take readings from, Crabtree, part of the family of brands at Electrium, is introducing new 125A vertical stack lighting and power MCB distribution boards. To assist designers and installers with the requirements of part L2, Crabtree now offers a compliant, preassembled solution with a fully rated 125A top distribution board. The Crabtree Loadstar vertical stack lighting and power MCB distribution boards are available with both standard and MID meter options. Jimmy Higginbotham, Product Manager for Circuit Protection at Electrium, comments, “This new option alleviates the need for extra steps when taking meter readings, while still giving installers maximum configuration options with both top and bottom boards available in four to 24 ways. By using the dual connection isolator, both boards are able to give individual readings without any additional need for offline addition or subtraction.” For further information, visit www.electrium.co.uk
October 2019 | 93
BUYERS’ GUIDE FIRE, SAFETY AND SECURITY PRODUCTS
INDOOR & OUTDOOR POWER
Fire, safety and security products that help deter false fire alarms, prevent theft and minimise damage to building equipment.
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www.sti-emea.com info@sti-emea.com 01527 520 999
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LIGHTING CONTROL
Simple lighting control solutions for commercial & residential projects
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lutron.com/vive-europe vive-europe@lutron.com
lutron.com/ra2select-europe ra2select-europe@lutron.com
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94 | October 2019
Visit www.hamilton-litestat.com Tel: +44 (0)1747 860088
DOMESTIC
EV CHARGING POINTS FOR THE HOME
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Over 150,000 EV Charging Points Manufactured & Supplied To Date The UK’s Largest Range Of AC Fast, DC Rapid & DC UltraFast EV Chargers Europe’s Largest Range Of Smart Charging Solutions For more details contact Rolec’s technical / support / sales team or visit your local electrical wholesaler
t: 01205 724754 e: rolec@rolecserv.co.uk
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING SOLUTIONS
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