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The revolutionary new junction box for lighting www.quickwire.co.uk
VOLUME 41 NO. 09 • SEPTEMBER 2021
SPECIAL FEATURE: HVAC
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SPECIAL FEATURE: LIGHTING
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KNIGHTSBRIDGE COVERS ALL BASES WITH NEW CATALOGUE The new Knightsbridge 2022 catalogue is more than just a brochure, it’s a statement of intent, says Grant Cadger, Trade Marketing Manager, Knightsbridge. The Knightsbridge 2022 catalogue is out now, and it’s jam-packed with over 600 new products and is full from cover to cover with great ideas, innovations and inspiration. For the latest, smartest and best solutions in wiring accessories and lighting, you won’t find a more comprehensive and informative read. The handy A5-sized publication is divided into easy-to-reference sections and provides full product details along with high quality lifestyle photography and detailed product images. Helpful information about industry and product certification is also included in this edition, to aid installers in making informed choices. The digital version, which can be found on mlaccessories.co.uk, also includes interactive links to relevant product web pages, where further technical details are available to view and download. It features some exciting new products, including SpektroLED, a downlight that breaks through the limitations of traditional LED downlights. It offers unrivalled choice in versatility, performance, and style in one unique package, doing away with the need to specify multiple LED lamp types. It is also designed and manufactured in such a way that installation is quick and easy, including a first-fix/second-fix connector.
Turn to page 12 for the full story
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CONTENTS
CONTENTS…
VOLUME 41 NO. 09 • SEPTEMBER 2021
Regulars
SPECIAL FEATURES:
4 Editorial
HVAC
Keeping warm while reducing carbon emissions
6 Industry News Business confidence among tradespeople at highest since July 2018; ECS check welcomes 750th registration; Fifth of UK electricians abused by customers every working day; and more
Energy saving ventilation for 28 cooler cows Ground source heating solution 30 being installed in UK’s first net zero carbon retirement community
12 Cover Story
32 The heat is on
Knightsbridge covers all bases with new catalogue
14 Contract News New EV chargers installed for Royal London; ESP on target at new football pavilion; Saltire wins £340,000 electrical testing contract; and more
National Ventilation scores a 34 hat-trick at Middlezoy Rovers FC Ventilation and comfort control in 36 the post-COVID workplace
16 Training Birmingham, Norwich and Cardiff lead the charge for electrician graduates; Supporting skills devolution in Wales; and Funding available for industry Level 3 qualifications
18 Key Issue
Lighting
The evolution of British Standard wiring devices
20 Project Focus
New and improved Inceptor Omni 38 downlight from Ovia
Hamilton helps to restore the splendour of Redland Court
22 Competition
The Grenfell legacy: building safety 40 ‘tunnel vision’ in the UK
LEDPro – still the installer’s favourite
Energys delivers LED lighting 42 upgrade to London’s
24 Ei Live! Preview Ei Live! celebrates 10 years
Newham College
26 Interview
Isaro Pro luminaires provide the 44 perfect solution for the safer
Looking to the future
streets fund initiative
48 Advertisement Feature
is UGR and why is it 46 What important for electricians?
Latest lumen LED floodlights from Challenger
61 Company Showcase Sponsored content from across the sector
Wholesalers & Distributors CEF celebrates 70 years with a 50 new trade catalogue and dream holiday prizes
52 Customer confidence Behind the screen: lifting the lid on 56 the product information that drives your clicks
24 electricalcontractingnews.com
Contents.indd 3
60 Moss to achieve net zero carbon! @ElecConNews
/electricalcontractingnews
September 2021 | 3
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EDITORIAL
NEXT TIME…
EV Charging
KEEPING WARM WHILE REDUCING CARBON EMISSIONS Hello and welcome to the September issue of ECN! As we approach the end of summer (I know, it feels like we haven’t had one!), thoughts change to cooler temperatures and keeping warm. Recently, SSE Energy Solutions and National Grid unveiled a new project that they say could decarbonise heat networks, capturing waste heat from electricity transformers to generate hot water and space heating for homes and businesses. Estimates show that the heat recovery project will initially reduce heat network carbon emissions by more than 40% versus traditional gas-led systems. This technology offers a route to net zero heat when applied to transformers served by 100% renewable electricity from wind or solar farms, with the potential to save millions of tonnes of CO2 every year if rolled out across National Grid’s network of transformers across England and Wales. Nathan Sanders, Managing Director at SSE Energy Solutions says that electric power transformers generate huge amounts of heat as a by-product when electricity flows through them, which is vented directly into the
Published monthly by All Things Media Ltd., Suite 14, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Kent ME5 8UD. Tel: 01634 673163 Fax: 01634 673173
atmosphere and wasted. This project aims to capture that waste heat and effectively turn transformers into community ‘boilers’ that serve local heat networks with a low or even zero carbon alternative to fossil-fuel powered heat sources such as gas boilers. This exciting heat recovery technology is currently undergoing a proof-of-concept trial at National Grid’s Deeside Centre for Innovation. HVAC is featured heavily in this issue, with articles from Delta Electronics, Kensa Contracting, ESP, National Ventilation and Omron Electronics Components Europe, bringing you up to date on the latest news and projects from the sector. I am also thrilled to introduce our new regular Interview feature, where each month we speak to a leading industry figure to gain insight into the work that they do alongside their organisation. Additional features in this issue include Lighting and Wholesalers and Distributors, and don’t miss this month’s competition which gives one lucky winner the chance to win £250 worth of Virgin Experience vouchers. See you next month!
Carly Wills, Editor
EDITOR: CARLY WILLS T: 01634 673163 E: carly@allthingsmedialtd.com
STUDIO: MARK WELLER T: 01634 673163 E: mark@allthingsmedialtd.com
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: BEATRICE LEE T: 01634 673163 E: beatrice@allthingsmedialtd.com
MANAGING DIRECTOR: DAVID KITCHENER T: 01634 673163 E: david@allthingsmedialtd.com
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Circuit Protection & Switchgear
Smart Lighting & Lighting Control
October Issue Editorial deadline: September 20 Advertising deadline: September 28
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The editors 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 © 2021, All rights reserved. Printed by Micropress, Reydon Business Park Fountain Way, Reydon, Southwold, IP18 6SZ.
Editorial.indd 4
electricalcontractingnews.com
@ElecConNews
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27/08/2021 11:37
MCC
Addressable • 10 outputs • • Fully addressable and broadcast options available. Communication with DS10 only • • Can communicate without the need for DALI ballasts • • Emergency Monitoring when used in conjunction with head end PC •
MDCC • Use with DALI Ballasts luminaires • • Graduated Dimming • • Future Proof • • Plug and play installation (requires programming) • • Simple on site configuration • • All lead configurations available •
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Metway Lighting Controls
• Standalone system • • 8 output and 10 output variants available • • Suitable for dimming and non-dimmable applications • • Presence or Absence detection • • 1 or 2 channel applications • • Ideal for use as distribution with DALI gateway •
26/08/2021 10:25
INDUSTRY NEWS AICO PEDALS THE BORDERS FOR LINGEN DAVIES CANCER FUND Aico has supported Adrenaline Sporting Events’ inaugural Pedal the Borders cycling event, in aid of Lingen Davies Cancer Fund. On Sunday 25 July, 100 riders departed from Aico’s Oswestry headquarters at 08:30am to take on the challenge of cycling 100km, from the Shropshire countryside into the Welsh hills. Beginning and ending at Aico, the ride took in miles of stunning local scenery, including the Tanat Valley and Lake Vyrnwy, with some challenging aspects. The first riders arrived back at Aico before noon, with the final riders completing the cycle around 3pm. Upon arrival back at Aico, cyclists enjoyed some well-deserved refreshments and were awarded an attractive finishing medal for their accomplishment. Providing more than just spectacular views, the route proved to be a real challenge for both cyclists and their bikes, but St John’s Ambulance crews were on hand to support those that needed it. Aico says it was delighted to be able to host and support this event, with 21 Aico colleagues from across the UK taking part in the ride, and more colleagues volunteering to help coordinate the event. Aico colleagues raised a fantastic £4,661 for Lingen Davies Cancer Fund. Keen cyclist Michael Wright, Product Development Manager for Aico, followed a challenging training schedule to prepare for Pedal the Borders, including hilly cycles around Glyn Ceiriog, as well as flatter routes towards Ruyton-XI-Towns to work on speed. Aico, aico.co.uk
BUSINESS CONFIDENCE AMONG TRADESPEOPLE AT HIGHEST SINCE JULY 2018 Business confidence among UK tradespeople is now at its highest level since July 2018, according to research released by Screwfix. Screwfix’s Business Confidence Index includes a range of measures, and almost all of them rose in July, as part of the company’s regular survey of the trade. Measures which rose include the percentage of tradespeople that are busier than expected, those preparing more quotes than 12 months ago, and those who say business activity is better than last year. The Business Confidence index has risen to +35 from +33 in May and +5 in January. This measure is now at its highest level since July 2018. The only measure not to rise in June 2021 was the proportion who think their business activity will improve in the next 12 months, although more still think it will improve in the next year than believe it will get worse. Reported workloads remain high with 86% of the trade now working, with more work in the pipeline. The survey is the first in a regular series of insights about the trade from Screwfix. Screwfix, screwfix.com
ECS CHECK WELCOMES 750TH REGISTRATION
‘LAST CHANCE TO SAVE OURSELVES FROM CLIMATE CRISIS’ SAYS ECA Electrotechnical and engineering services body, ECA, calls for long-term thinking, delivery plans and concrete action from government in response to the latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The recently published landmark report warns that within the next 20 years, global temperatures are likely to rise 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, making heatwaves, flooding and droughts more common and extreme. The report has been labelled a ‘Code Red for humanity’. ECA has produced extensive guidance to help electrotechnical businesses to make a ‘Green Pivot’ and focus on net zero carbon skills and training. ECA urges its nearly 3,000 member businesses in the electrical and engineering services sector to invest in their workforces and enable training and upskilling that will allow the installation, operation and maintenance of an array of low- to no-carbon technologies.
Braid Mechanical and Electrical, a member of the Joint Industry Board (JIB), has become the 750th organisation to register for ECS Check. Based in Ballymena, Braid Mechanical and Electrical has been providing mechanical and electrical services to industrial and business customers for over 85 years and is one of Northern Ireland’s longest running electrical contracting businesses. Launched in early 2020, ECS Check provides a free-to-access digital platform that enables the electrotechnical industry to conduct audits to verify all electrotechnical personnel on site throughout the supply chain. Following approval as a pilot that meets the Licence to Practise (LtP) requirements on government public sector construction contracts in Northern Ireland, ECS Check is recognised by the Northern Ireland Government as meeting procurement guidance note 01-16. ECS Check continues to help electrical contractors meet their LtP requirements free of charge. Some of Northern Ireland’s most significant public bodies have already signed up for ECS Check, including the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Translink, NI Water, Belfast and Western Health and Social Care Trust. JIB, jib.org.uk
ECA, eca.co.uk
6 | September 2021
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@ElecConNews
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26/08/2021 10:26
A Smarter Home Click Smart+ is powered by Zigbee – the world’s leading wireless protocol to control your home
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Every device can be controlled from anywhere using the Click Smart+ app or with Alexa and Hey Google.
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24/08/2021 13:47 24/08/2021 10:49:18
INDUSTRY NEWS STUDY REVEALS SMES COULD BE LOSING UP TO 54% OF ONLINE REVENUE Yell has released research into how businesses in the trades sector are approaching their online presence in the pandemic, and how getting your website right is important. The research identified an online presence as a key driver for tradespeople. 79% of businesses stated that their customer reviews were the most important aspect for generating leads and sales, followed by their website. 34% of tradespeople stated that they thought their website was unimportant before the pandemic, but now think that they would not survive without it. Out of the websites analysed, trades websites were last updated an estimated 20 months ago, revealing that businesses are neglecting to update them. The most common reason is a lack of expertise, followed by a fear of something going wrong and a lack of money. More than half of businesses in the trades sector stated that design is the most important part of their website, and this is reflected in consumer behaviour too. Half of consumers surveyed stated that they would be less likely to give a website their business if it was badly designed and 41% said they would not use that business again. The analysis found that it took 6.7 seconds for a business’s website’s page to go from a blank screen to a visually complete state. In comparison, it took trades websites 6.2 seconds on average, showing that overall, trades websites are performing better than the standard amongst other SMEs. Yell, yell.com
CITYFIBRE BEGINS WORK ON NEXT STAGE OF A FULL FIBRE ROLLOUT IN GLASGOW
FIVE RESOURCES ALL TRAINEE AND APPRENTICE ELECTRICIANS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT
Plans to future-proof the digital infrastructure of Glasgow has moved a step closer as CityFibre, the UK’s largest independent full fibre platform, has started work to connect homes and businesses in the north west of the city to its full fibre network. Construction has now started in the Netherton area and is being delivered by Glenevin on behalf of CityFibre. With work progressing at pace, it is set to get underway in the next areas, Anniesland and Temple, in late September, followed by Port Dundas in November. The team will use a range of construction methods while working in close partnership with Glasgow City Council and local communities to deliver a fast rollout, while minimising potential disruption. Construction in the north west of the city is the next stage of the network installation, with work beginning in the south of the city earlier this year. The overall project is expected to reach completion by 2025. The network is not yet live, but once activated, services will be available from an increasing range of broadband providers. Across the UK, CityFibre is already working with launch partner, Vodafone, to supply full fibre infrastructure for customers on selected Vodafone Pro Broadband plans, and TalkTalk, with other providers expected to join the network soon. CityFibre is bringing full fibre connectivity within reach of 8 million homes in towns and cities across the UK as part of its up to £4 billion Gigabit City Investment Programme.
While the electrical industry is desperate to attract new talent, the competition for jobs is fierce, meaning new electricians will be more eager than ever to nail their first few weeks in the role. To help up and coming electricians hit the ground running when they start, electrical wholesaler ERF has pulled together a handy guide identifying some of the most insightful and informative resources within the industry.
CityFibre, cityfibre.com
Electrodoc app
Electrodoc is available on iOS and Android and is known as a portable electrician’s bible. From its Ohm’s law calculator to its voltage divider, the app breaks down the complexities of electrics into easy to consume information.
Talk Electrician’s forum
Talk Electrician’s forum is an online community with more than 30,000 fellow electricians – in fact, you’ll do well to find anywhere else with so many electricians in one place. For this reason, it’s a brilliant group for trainees to be a part of, with endless advice, information and help at your fingertips.
Electricians on YouTube
Electrician-come-Youtuber, John Ward, is one for aspiring apprentices to watch. JW’s videos are full of practical snippets of information, with a slightly more formal tone to his channel. Uploading a new video every week, John puts electrical theories to the test and shows off different experiments and demonstrations.
#sparky TikTok
#sparky is a hashtag worth following, along with 390 million other people who also watch these short videos. For apprentices and trainees, this hashtag on TikTok will make learning a bit more fun and engaging.
The Electrical Show Podcast
Podcasts are a clever way to learn more about a topic without having to concentrate too hard on the content. They are becoming more and more popular, being easy enough to follow whilst completing other tasks, and so they never feel too time consuming. ERF Electrical, erfelectrical.co.uk
8 | September 2021
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23/08/2021 09:42
INDUSTRY NEWS MERTON BUS GARAGE GEARS UP FOR ZERO-EMISSION OPERATIONS Environmentally-friendly buses are operating from a South West London bus garage, thanks to a new electricity connection. UK Power Networks has completed work at Merton for Go-Ahead London, to enable new electric buses to charge overnight, with the project representing a major contribution towards reducing local pollution levels, while helping to enable the UK’s transition to net zero. The delivery team installed new cables to provide additional power at the garage, which will deliver supplies for 17 electric buses operating on route 200 from Mitcham to Raynes Park. The work has reduced running costs for the bus garage, which is able to charge its new fleet when local electricity demand is very low. Irvine Nyamapfene, project manager at UK Power Networks, says: “This is bringing another breath of fresh air for Londoners and we are pleased to be playing a key part in the city looking forward to a greener future.” UK Power Networks, the firm that keeps power flowing across London, the South East and East of England has enabled more than 500 buses in the capital to turn electric over the last few years, to help meet the government’s 2050 target of net zero emissions. UK Power Networks, ukpowernetworks.co.uk
FIFTH OF UK ELECTRICIANS ABUSED BY CUSTOMERS EVERY WORKING DAY Almost nine in 10 (86%) UK tradespeople have been abused at work by customers, with swearing, threatening messages and even physical attacks common in the industry, new research has revealed. The study was conducted by IronmongeryDirect, after its ‘Mental Health in the Trades’ report found customer tensions and abuse are among the leading causes of stress. Swearing and insults (34%) are the most common form of abuse, but one in 10 (10%) tradespeople have been physically attacked by a client, and one in 14 (7%) have been sexually harassed. Such behaviour means many tradespeople have felt unsafe (16%) or threatened (13%) at work, and one in eight (12%) have felt stressed, depressed or anxious because of heated exchanges. While both male and female tradespeople are victimised, the type of abuse they receive varies. Women are more likely to be sworn at or insulted (37%) and receive threatening messages (18%), but men are more commonly on the end of physical attacks (10%) and sexual harassment (8%). Dominick Sandford, Director and Head of Merchandising & Marketing at IronmongeryDirect, comments: “It’s so important that tradespeople look after themselves and don’t just put up with hostility, as it can have a detrimental effect on their mental health. Our research found that one in eight workers have walked away from jobs because of abuse and that is a really sensible action to take.” IronmongeryDirect, ironmongerydirect.co.uk
MOVERS & SHAKERS… Two new Area Sales Managers are set to bolster Niglon’s growth – concentrating on the South East. Sonny Gladdish and Chris Jackson joined the team in July, with Sonny covering his home county of Kent, as well as South London and parts of Sussex. He has previously worked with ML Accessories, which supplies lighting products and electrical wiring accessories, and test equipment firm Di-Log. EV charging company, Indra, has made a significant appointment through the addition of Leighton King, who joins the business as its first Chief Commercial Officer. With an established track record of over 20 years’ experience within the automotive and marine industry, the appointment of Leighton is just one of a number of key moves the company is making as part of its ambitious growth plans.
INTRODUCING ‘TECHNICALLY SPEAKING’ – THE LATEST PODCAST FROM NICEIC NICEIC has introduced its latest podcast series, ‘Technically Speaking’. Aimed at electrical contractors wishing to expand their knowledge, Technically Speaking joins the brand’s successful technical webinar series, ‘The WIRE’ and complements the regular NICEIC Live Stream events and ‘Low Carbon Fix’ podcast. “Following the events of the past 18 months, we are acutely aware that our customers are increasingly looking for new and more convenient ways of undertaking learning,” says Paul Collins, NICEIC Technical Services Manager. “This is clearly demonstrated in the success we have seen with The WIRE, which reached over 10,000 individuals in the last series, and the increasing popularity of our weekly Live Stream events, which regularly attract over 1,000 viewers. “Keen to keep engaging with our audience, we are delighted to introduce our latest offering, Technically Speaking. Taking the questions and answers from our Live Stream Q&A events, we have added this technically rich content to our growing podcast platform, allowing contractors to tune in whilst out on the job, in the van, or at a time and place to suit them.” Available now via all popular podcast channels, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts, the Technically Speaking launch package includes eight episodes.
Scolmore has welcomed two new members to its technical team. The appointment of James Hannon as senior technical lighting engineer and Mark Lagoe as technical support engineer will further strengthen the technical support department to meet the needs of the company as it continues to expand its products in all divisions.
NICEIC, niceic.com
10 | September 2021
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23/08/2021 09:43
COVER STORY
KNIGHTSBRIDGE COVERS ALL BASES WITH NEW CATALOGUE The new Knightsbridge 2022 catalogue is more than just a brochure, it’s a statement of intent, says Grant Cadger, Trade Marketing Manager, Knightsbridge.
T
Functionality has been increased with the introduction of a number of modular screwless frames and faceplates
12 | September 2021
FCP – ML Accessories.indd 12
he Knightsbridge 2022 catalogue is out now, and it’s jam-packed with over 600 new products and is full from cover to cover with great ideas, innovations and inspiration. For the latest, smartest and best solutions in wiring accessories and lighting, you won’t find a more comprehensive and informative read. The handy A5-sized publication is divided into easy-to-reference sections and provides full product details along with high quality lifestyle photography and detailed product images. Helpful information about industry and product certification is also included in this edition, to aid installers in making informed choices. The digital version, which can be found on mlaccessories.co.uk, also includes interactive links to relevant product web pages, where further technical details are available to view and download. It features some exciting new products, including SpektroLED, a downlight that breaks through the limitations of traditional LED downlights. It offers unrivalled choice in versatility, performance, and style in one unique package, doing away with the need to specify multiple LED lamp types. It is also designed and manufactured in such a way that installation is quick and easy, including a first-fix/second-fix connector. This new downlight can be configured to offer 40 variants from the one product, thanks to its selectable wattages and CCTs and choices of bezel. Depending on the required illumination, either 5W (up to 465
lumens) or 8W (up to 795 lumens) can be pre-selected via a switch on the rear of the lamp body. Once chosen, there are four CCTs available – 2700K, 3000K, 4000K and 6000K – the desired colour temperature selected by a sliding switch also on the rear of the lamp body. Further customisation is then possible through the various bezel options that allow the lamp to complement or contrast with a room’s décor or colourways. The bezels come in a choice of stylish finishes, from popular white and matt black to chrome, polished chrome and brass. These permutations of wattage, colour temperature and bezel choice make SpektroLED a genuine 40-in-1 solution.
Getting smarter With an eye on the smart home of the future, the Smart section of the catalogue has been expanded to 16 pages to include a host of new products. The latest additions include LED lamps, sensors and a security camera, all controllable via the ‘Smartknight’ app, which is available to download for free from Google Play and the Apple App Store. Good design and good looks are never far behind technology and the 2022 edition showcases updates to the popular Knightsbridge screwless switches and sockets portfolio, where anthracite and smoked bronze finishes join the other contemporary styles. Functionality has also been increased with the introduction of a number of modular screwless frames and faceplates, including multimedia combination faceplates that feature USB Fastcharge A+C. These are capable of delivering 0-50% charge in under 30 minutes with compatible phones. For more modest installations there’s even a half-size multimedia combination faceplate. Lighting products across the board have been refreshed, with the bathroom and interior domestic lighting offerings both showing significant increases in styles, types and performance. The lighting line up for the bathroom is all about unlocking the true design potential of a space that is often overlooked and under resourced when it comes to illumination. LED wall lights, shaver lights, over-mirror lights, mirrors and downlights/recessed wall lights all now provide the opportunity to reimagine how the modern bathroom might look and feel.
SpektroLED is a downlight that breaks through the limitations of traditional LED downlights
Knightsbridge has printed its 2022 catalogue using PEFC-accredited paper
electricalcontractingnews.com
Flex-cut For creative or dramatic lighting schemes there’s details of a new service available to the trade. Called Flex-cut, it will allow customers to make the most of LED Flex (LED strip lighting) products by allowing them to order LED Flex tailored to their particular specifications. The online service is simple to use and incorporates an easy six-step guide to create exactly what you need: from choosing IP rating and colours to selecting the exact desired cable, flex strip lengths and add-on accessories. When finished, the user can review their full order before confirming the purchase. Flex-cut incorporates everything that is good about LED Flex but removes the wastage typically associated with buying standard lengths. Now customers can make the most of the product’s versatility to create stunning ambient lighting effects both in and outside the home or office. And while the 2022 catalogue might be the biggest and best yet, its impact on the environment will be the smallest it’s ever made. In line with its Committed to a Brighter Future initiative, Knightsbridge has printed its 2022 catalogue using PEFC-accredited paper, which has been carbon balanced, a scheme pioneered by the World Land Trust. In short, carbon emissions from paper production are offset by the preservation of ecologically important forests, continuing the absorption of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. To read the Knightsbridge 2022 catalogue online, or to request your own hard copy, please visit mlaccessories.co.uk. Knightsbridge, mlaccessories.co.uk
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CATALOGUE CATALOGUE OUT NOW CATALOGUE OUT NOW OUT NOW
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CONTRACT NEWS WIELAND PROVIDES THE ELECTRICAL CONNECTION FOR HMP FIVE WELLS Wieland Electric has supplied a variety of products from the company’s gesis RST and GST ranges, along with low voltage lighting control and cabling in all cells and risers, for HMP Five Wells, which is currently under construction in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire. The new Category C resettlement prison is set to open in early 2022 and is built on the site of the previously demolished Wellingborough Prison, which closed in 2012. HMP Five Wells will house 1,680 male prisoners and create around 700 jobs in the area. The project has been overseen by main contractor Kier and is embracing a Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) concept. This will integrate digital tools to drive efficiencies in the design, construction and operation of the facility. The project is the first in a series of schemes to be undertaken as part of the Ministry of Justice’s New Prison Programme. Wieland worked with building services provider Crown House Technologies, to provide its RST and GST cable
assemblies for the off-site prefabricated risers which fed the power, lighting and ancillary services to the individual prison cells and communal areas. All of the cabling in the cells was fully pluggable and incorporated Wieland’s GST
and GST MINI systems. Wieland also supplied an extra low voltage lighting control system for cell lighting. Wieland, wieland-electric.com
NEW LIGHTING AT HEART OF MIDLOTHIAN FOOTBALL CLUB
SALTIRE WINS £340,000 ELECTRICAL TESTING CONTRACT
SPIE UK was awarded the contract to install new floodlights at Tynecastle Park, home of the Heart of Midlothian Football Club, as part of a major renovation programme at the ground as the club returns to the Scottish Premier League. The 176 halogen floodlights have been replaced with just 56 ArenaVision LED gen3.5 800 lux lamps which ensures that the lighting conforms with the Scottish Football Association’s 800 lux Eh Gold Criteria. The design of the lighting allows for the addition of more lamps in the future, which meets UEFA Level B criteria and qualifies the ground for hosting a wider array of games. As well as illuminating the action, the new lighting solution will help Heart of Midlothian Football Club significantly reduce its impact on the environment. With the change to the more energy efficient LED lights, more than 34,000 kilos of CO2e could be saved each year. This stems from a calculated energy saving of circa 78%, which could also deliver an approximate cost saving in excess of £125,000 for the football club over 10 years. The new lighting system ensures that Tynecastle Park is ready for the future. New four-way TP&N 100 Amp distribution boards have been added to the stanchions upon which the lights are fitted. With the new distribution boards and the spare space on the floodlight gantry, Heart of Midlothian has the ability to add more lights to accommodate changing regulations or have the ability to install specialist lights and management software to enable the light shows common at many large stadiums.
Bellshill-based Saltire Facilities Management has successfully been awarded a contract with South Lanarkshire Council, following a mini competition from a Procurement for Housing Framework, worth approximately £340,000 to deliver a programme of domestic fixed electrical testing for up to 5,000 homes across the region. Saltire, which has a long history delivering home improvement works for various councils and housing associations throughout Scotland, will complete inspection and testing of electrical systems, including undertaking any remedial works in order to ensure each installation is fully compliant. Though the programme of works is subject to change due to COVID-19 restrictions, Saltire is expected to deliver home improvements to between 3,500 and 5,000 homes across the South Lanarkshire region. The contract is an 18-month working partnership between Saltire and South Lanarkshire Council, with a further potential 18-month extension available. It will be managed by Electrical Manager, Steven Kerrigan and Contract Managers, Brian Purden and Jamie Cooper, with overall progress monitored by Installations Director, Alan Murray. Speaking of winning this contract, Steven Kerrigan, comments: “Winning this contract is testament to the quality and reputation of our local electrical team. I am looking forward to developing our relationship with South Lanarkshire Council and supporting them to deliver this programme of home improvements for their tenants.” Installations Director, Alan Murray, adds: “Saltire has been successful in expanding our service delivery across the UK, but it is great to continue serving clients closer to home.”
SPIE UK, spieuk.com
SPRINT POWER LEADS ON PIONEERING WIRELESS CHARGING TECH TRIAL FOR FLEET VEHICLES Sprint Power is leading a multi-million-pound UK government-backed project that aims to demonstrate the suitability of wireless charging technology for fleet vehicles. The company has developed a series of advanced wireless charging modules ahead of the trial beginning on the streets of Leeds, Nottingham and Warwick in September. Sprint Power has developed an electrical distribution system (EDS), a power distribution module (PDM), and a high voltage harness assembly that will enable a fleet of vehicles to charge wirelessly via pads attached to the ground. The bespoke and high-tech design will automatically recognise which power source to draw current from, with each vehicle featuring both wireless and plug-in charging capability. A display screen inside the cabin of each vehicle will indicate to the user the status of each charge. Project AMiCC (AMiCable Charging) will trial eight modified Nissan Leaf and Nissan ENV200 models to evaluate the benefits of using wireless charging systems for security, estate and pool car fleets. Many of these fleets have low downtime and high utilisation, where drivers have just a short window to recharge the vehicle battery. With a wired connection, this relies on the user having to plug and unplug the vehicle many times a day. This is seen as one of the biggest barriers to transitioning these types of fleets to electric mobility. By utilising advanced wireless charging technology, fleet users will benefit from improved cable-free usability, plus easier access to charging when vehicle downtime is short and frequent recharging is required. An AI machine learning algorithm will capture information such as vehicle movement and optimum charging behaviour, while drivers will report back on their experiences using the technology. Key success factors will include user acceptance, the readiness of the technology and its reliability. The results will be shared with the UK government, and if successful, will become a code of best practice and could subsequently be implemented by industry.
Saltire, saltire.co.uk
Sprint Power, sprint-power.com
14 | September 2021
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electricalcontractingnews.com
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25/08/2021 10:23
CONTRACT NEWS NEW EV CHARGERS INSTALLED FOR ROYAL LONDON Mitie is supporting Royal London, a mutual insurance, pensions and investment company, with its sustainability strategy, having installed the first 10 electric vehicle (EV) charge points at its office in Alderley Park. This is a landmark moment for Mitie in its objective to help public and private sector organisations reach net zero, with over 850 EV charge points installed for customers across the UK and Ireland. In addition to the initial installation, Mitie is ensuring that Royal London’s charge points are working correctly and carrying out any necessary maintenance. Mitie is also helping Royal London with the ongoing monitoring of charge point usage, to track trends and determine the pace and focus of its charging infrastructure investment. Mitie has installed chargers for customers across the length and breadth of Britain as well as in Ireland, covering a broad range of sites including offices and manufacturing facilities. This is in addition to over 1,000 charge points Mitie has already installed at its own sites and at its employees’ homes in support of its commitment to switch its entire fleet of 7,100 vehicles to electric by 2025. Mitie’s Plan Zero commitment includes using its sustainability, as well as energy and fleet management, expertise to support public and private sector organisations reach their own decarbonisation targets.
The company has also launched a whitepaper on EV charge point infrastructure, outlining key factors businesses should consider when designing their charge point programme. Darren Smith, Head of Group Procurement & Estates, Royal London, says: “We’re committed to playing our part in the fight against climate change. To help reach our
climate pledges and reduce our operational emissions, we’ve worked with Mitie to install electric vehicle charging points in our Alderley Park office. We’re encouraging all of our people to help play their part in reducing emissions in any way they can.” Mitie, mitie.com
FREEDOM SECURES CONTRACT WIN WITH SCOTTISH AND SOUTHERN ELECTRICITY NETWORKS Freedom, an NG Bailey Group company, has secured a new contract to deliver substation works with Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Distribution. The framework contract began in May and will run until 2024. It will see Freedom’s Networks teams delivering works on the company’s grid and primary substations in the north of Scotland and central southern England. The combined framework will see the teams install, test and commission new and replacement assets from 11kV to 132kV. Peter Jones, Managing Director of NG Bailey’s Services division, says: “This contract is testament to the strength of our working relationships with Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks and the expertise of our teams delivering on the ground. “They will deliver vital works to help ensure that power networks in the north of Scotland and central southern England continue to remain safe and reliable.” Freedom, freedom-group.co.uk
electricalcontractingnews.com
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ESP ON TARGET AT NEW FOOTBALL PAVILION The recent completion of a project to create a brand-new sports pavilion at the Middlezoy Rovers FC ground gave the team cause for celebration, and ESP provided the CCTV systems to guarantee security for the premises. The site, which originally housed a World War II shelter, was transformed to provide the new Ethan Berry Pavilion, with much-needed amenities including a brand-new lounge and bar area, reception and kitchen facilities. The contractor responsible for specifying and installing the security products at the site was Matt Francis of M-Tech Electrical, a family-run electrical contracting firm covering the south west region. He recommended ESP’s HDview 5MP IP POE CCTV system. The IP POE CCTV range is designed to offer superior, reliable and straightforward installation solutions and is particularly suitable for larger applications with its wide choice of NVRs and camera selection. The range features POE (Power-Over-Ethernet) which enables the camera and power feed to be wired in Cat5e cable up to 100m without the need for additional power, which makes
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installation much more convenient. A single Ethernet cable provides both the power and the HD digital feed, with just one cable per camera, and multiple cameras can be installed anywhere on the network that the NVR is connected to. The HDView IP POE 16 channel NVR was set up along with six white 3.6mm lens 2MP IP dome cameras and two white 2.8-12mm lens 5MP IP bullet cameras. These were positioned at various locations on the site to provide maximum coverage, including the car park, entrance and reception at the Pavilion, as well as the extensive kitchen, lounge and bar facilities. Commenting on the install project, Matt Francis says: “From the initial contact with ESP for the design of a suitable CCTV system, for the project, it was a very straightforward process. I was impressed with the ease of installation and set-up of the system and the quality of images from the cameras is excellent. Having remote access to the system was very important to the client, and they are impressed with the overall result.” ESP, espuk.com
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25/08/2021 10:23
TRAINING BIRMINGHAM, NORWICH AND CARDIFF LEAD THE CHARGE FOR ELECTRICIAN GRADUATES The construction and manual trade industry is one of a few that has remained open for business throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only have workers and businesses been able to operate within social distancing guidelines (following an initial lockdown early last year), but the industry has gone from strength to strength, and with it, its appeal as a profession has rocketed. Online learning portal, Access Training UK revealed a 29% increase in applicants to its trade courses in 2020, including a noticeable 14% increase in female applicants. This increase could not come at a better time as construction activity levels have experienced a seven year high, whilst demand for home improvements have soared significantly, as homeowners look to renovate and re-design homes to adapt to a new way of living. Training to be an electrician has been the most popular avenue over the last year, with a 38% increase in trainees at Access Training UK, closely followed by gas engineer courses (29%), plumber courses (24%) and carpentry courses (13%). Access Training UK has highlighted which regions of the UK are leading the charge when it comes to electrician courses: Region
Percentage increase in graduates when comparing 2019/20 to 2020/21
Birmingham
66%
Norwich
50%
Cardiff
34%
Oxford and Liverpool
33%
Jamie Jefferies, CEO of Access Training UK, comments: “Construction and manual trades were some of the UK’s strongest sectors during the pandemic. There is also a huge skill shortage within the industry. Therefore, it is no surprise to see an increase in the number of graduates across the board, with the industry appealing to those looking for employment, but also those looking for a career change.
Bristol
28%
Access Training UK, accesstraininguk.co.uk
SUPPORTING SKILLS DEVOLUTION IN WALES
FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR INDUSTRY LEVEL 3 QUALIFICATIONS
In April, ECA took centre stage in a webinar for teachers about the new Construction and Built Environment GCSE in Wales.
The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP) is urging adults without a Level 3 qualification to take advantage of the current funding available for industry-recognised qualifications while it remains available.
Chris Jenkins, director of ECA member EFT Consult, Swansea, drew on his own career history to explain the broad variety of engineering services work and opportunities for further progression after qualifying in a skilled trade: “A life in the electrical industry can lead to a whole range of career prospects. You can progress into specialist fields – high voltage, fire systems, security, data networks, to name a few. You can also choose to progress into technical, operational and managerial roles – as an estimator, engineer, project manager or designer.” Chris was joined by ECA’s Employment and Skills Director, Andrew Eldred, who emphasised the importance of new entrants following the correct, industry-recognised training routes, rather than supposed shortcuts offered by some commercially driven organisations. The GCSE is part of a suite of new qualifications developed for Qualifications Wales. According to Allan Perry of Qualifications Wales, the GCSE is designed to “provide the foundations to enable learners to consider different careers within the construction industry.” Beyond the GCSE, students will be able to develop their knowledge and skills further through new foundation and progression qualifications, before moving on to a Level 3 qualification delivered alongside an updated Welsh apprenticeship framework. Roll-out of the new qualifications is due to take place in phases between September this year and next. ECA staff and members have been actively engaged in supporting and scrutinising these developments, working closely with both Qualifications Wales and the City and Guilds/EAL consortium appointed to create the foundation, progression and Level 3 qualifications. Increasingly, powers and responsibilities for skills policy are being devolved to national, regional and even local authorities. As such, ECA’s work in Wales marks an important step in establishing a close and productive dialogue with a devolved authority, which it now intends to replicate elsewhere.
Under the government’s ‘Lifetime Skills Guarantee’ any adult aged 19 or over in England, who does not already have a Level 3 qualification, can receive free training from hundreds of colleges and training providers across the country. The Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Installing Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment (Buildings, Structures and the Environment), is included in the list of funded qualifications. This qualification assesses work-based performance and leads to recognition as a qualified electrician, as an alternative route to the apprenticeship or experienced worker assessment. Funding is also available for the Level 3 Advanced Technical Diploma in Electrical Installation. This is a key stepping stone on the industry approved training routes,
for those who wish to continue to develop their technical knowledge before gaining work experience. Those who complete the technical diploma must then gain work-based experience and complete the NVQ and the AM2 assessment to be recognised as a qualified electrician. Alternatively, there are many career routes in related sectors that welcome a level of electrical knowledge, including wider building services and data cabling. With both courses normally costing thousands of pounds to complete, the funding available will provide essential support to those looking to train or upskill to become a qualified electrician in line with the TESP approved training routes. TESP, the-esp.org.uk
ECA, eca.co.uk
18 | September 2021
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electricalcontractingnews.com
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25/08/2021 10:04
UNLOCK YOUR POTENTIAL WITH ECA
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YOUR INDUSTRY PARTNER FOR GROWTH & PROSPERITY
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Expert helplines Industry-leading guidance Specialist webinars Dedicated Member tools Exclusive discounts Help shape your industry
Find out more at eca.co.uk/join-us info@eca.co.uk 0207 313 4800 @ECAlive Terms & conditions apply and are subject to change. Registered in England: Company Number 143669. Covering England, Wales & NI.
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Get specified with ECA membership 24/08/2021 10:34
KEY ISSUE
THE EVOLUTION OF BRITISH STANDARD WIRING DEVICES The launch of the new MK Logic Plus Rapid Fix double switch socket from MK Electric changes wiring device installation to help make electricians’ lives easier, especially on larger projects. Colin Marshall, Chief Technology Officer, looks at this innovation that is designed help speed up installation and provide a robust, safe connection.
S
ince the early 1900’s, sockets and switches have evolved from split pins and round sockets to three pins, the addition of different finishes, enhanced safety features, and more recently, the incorporation of USB Type-A and Type-C ports to meet with our newer charging needs. That said, the socket connectivity has remained largely unchanged, requiring screws to hold the cables in place.
Advancing the double socket
The double socket is a staple for every electrician
The double socket is a staple for every electrician. With function and form a constant with this product, many updates involve the user interface and the latest technology trends, such as adding USB ports and material upgrades. Although not seen by the end user, MK turned its attention to the back of the socket to make alterations to help installers on a day-to-day basis. Reviewing the connectivity of the product can offer installers considerable time and cost saving opportunities, enhanced ease of installation and robust guaranteed connections. Adding spring-loaded clamps to the new MK Logic Plus Rapid Fix double switch socket ticks even more boxes. Screwing multiple cable terminations when wiring sockets is a cumbersome and time-intensive task that many installers
are familiar with. Tool-less cable clamp termination is a known and proven concept within the lighting industry and an easy transition for use in wiring devices. No screws means it’s a tool-free operation. The ability to hold cables in place easily while connecting wiring is an obvious benefit and can help when fitting sockets in awkward or unforgiving environments. The spring-loaded clamps also help prevent over or under tightening and degradation of the connection over time if the tension should loosen by keeping wires in place with just the right amount of pressure. Bringing this to the market required more overhaul than simply swapping out screw connectors for the new colour-coded clamps.
Testing to meet standards Socket ratings are typically much higher than a light fitting; a difference of perhaps 0.2 amp in a light fitting to 13 amps being drawn from a socket. The MK Logic Plus Rapid Fix connection needed to be designed and tested to support this additional current. When the standard BS1363-2 was updated in 2016, screwless clamps were recognised as a viable connection means. The clamps used on the MK Logic Plus Rapid Fix have faced stringent testing to meet the British Standard. The company’s Southend-on-Sea factory in Essex features an independently accredited in-house test laboratory, which allows products to be tested to British Standards and beyond. Testing includes loading the socket to certain levels and measuring temperatures to cyclical tests that monitor operation over a minimum number of plug insertions.
Investment in design Significant change was needed to incorporate the larger clamps in place of screw terminals to avoid changing the depth of the backbox required to fit the socket to the wall. Essentially, the back of the product needed to be completely redesigned, requiring investment not only in the initial product design and development but also in the shape of new tooling and production lines needed for manufacture.
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Key Issue – MK.indd 18
Making sure the product fits the purpose to which it is designed is vital to its success
It’s important for manufacturers to continue to keep up with the latest trends
electricalcontractingnews.com
The importance of input Making sure the product fits the purpose to which it is designed is vital to its success. When developing the MK Logic Plus Rapid Fix double switch socket, input was taken from electrical installers to ensure it tackled the main issues they faced on a day-to-day basis: saving time, robustness of connections for a ‘right first time’ installation, and ease of use, which would also greatly aide junior installers and apprentices. Feedback given was worked into the design to ensure the product connections gave enough benefit to offset the uplift in product cost, essentially comparing cost to the man-hours needed to install. In fact, trials showed time savings of up to 45% when compared to a screwed socket, meaning this latest addition to the MK Logic Plus range successfully delivers on all three points. With consumer tastes changing almost as quickly as products can be developed, it’s important for manufacturers to continue to keep up with the latest trends. Also, innovation never stops. It also takes different forms, from safety to installation ease and greater efficiency. As the demand on sockets becomes even greater with the advent of more devices requiring charge and power, it can only be expected that more of the humble double sockets will need to be installed at each job. Using an innovative solution that can cut the time taken to install whilst offering robust connection and guarantees is a win-win for all. MK Electric, hwll.co/rapidfix
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25/08/2021 10:05
Does your EVSE kit help you test, or does it just test?
Metrel’s charging point test kit is exceptional! The adapter will simulate a vehicle using the charge point and will complete all the functional tests and load test the installation. Meanwhile, the multi-function tester will automatically do all the electrical safety tests, let you record and store the results. So you can issue the certificate without added hassle. Helping you move on to the next job without delay!
Find out how the Metrel range of EVSE kits can accelerate your business. CALL TODAY 01924 245000 or mail info@metrel.co.uk for more information.
Metrel UK Ltd. Unit 16, 1st Qtr Business Park Blenheim Road Epsom Surrey KT19 9QN Phone: 01924 245000 E-mail: info@metrel.co.uk Web: www.metrel.co.uk
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23/08/2021 09:46
PROJECT FOCUS
HAMILTON HELPS TO RESTORE THE SPLENDOUR OF REDLAND COURT Hamilton Litestat has supported the development of Bristol’s historic Redland Court, providing designer wiring accessories that create continuity between its period property restoration and its new-build properties.
S
et in picturesque parkland on the old site of Redland High Girls’ School, Juniper Homes has developed the area to create a collection of apartments and family townhouses, all providing high-specification, contemporary living.
The brief The overarching challenge of the project was to create balance between the old and the new buildings: retaining existing features, elements of the classic style and the varied history of the area, while combining this with the requirements of modern living to create a cohesive overall look and feel. The Bristol-based developer tasked its local electrical contractor, David Fear Electrical Contractors, to source decorative electrical wiring accessories that would create continuity throughout the development, being sympathetic to the restored Grade II listed buildings, while suiting the new contemporary homes. High-quality manufacture and finishes were of the utmost importance throughout.
The solution High-quality manufacture and finish were of the utmost importance throughout
20 | September 2021
Project Focus – Hamilton.indd 20
Located in the south-west, David Fear Electrical Contractors has worked with Hamilton with great success on multiple projects. Assured of the company’s high-quality, flexible solutions, Hamilton’s Hartland designer switch plates and sockets were selected and supplied through Walsall Electrical Distributors (Bristol).
The Hartland collection has a slim, elegant and classic design, while soft round edges nod to the contemporary. It was specified in two finishes to complement the different building styles: antique brass plates with antique brass switches and black inserts for buildings with period features; and satin steel plates with satin steel switches and white inserts for contemporary properties. With a vast range of functionality options, power was delivered via double switched sockets, with select sockets upgraded with dual USB 2.4A Ultra charging outlets. Lighting is controlled with a mix of one, two, three and four-gang LEDIT-B100 two-way dimmers. In kitchens, a six-gang grid plate controls all the modern electricals. Throughout the Redland Court properties, the labelled switches used are oven, dishwasher, fridge/freezer, cooker hood, and fan, with a final switch left blank for homeowner personalisation. Counter-top lighting has been installed on the underside of the wall-mounted kitchen units, which is controlled by Hamilton’s LEDIT-B100 two-way dimmer switches. Living room media plates feature TV/FM/2x SAT outlets, plus a one-gang telephone slave to support contemporary media and connectivity requirements. In bedrooms, double switched sockets are positioned either side of the bed, alongside two-gang dimmer switches to control bedside lamps. A further two-gang dimmer switch controls the main lighting and is located at the entrance of the bedroom.
In bathrooms, the Hartland plate finish was coordinated with the shower and tap fittings
The solutions are straight-forward to install
electricalcontractingnews.com
In bathrooms, the Hartland plate finish was coordinated with the shower and tap fittings. A dual voltage unswitched shaving socket provides safe power for electricals, while a 20A cable outlet has been installed for the towel rail. Matt West, of David Fear Electrical Contractors, says: “The quality of Hamilton’s electrical wiring solutions is superb, and the flexibility of configurations and finishes means that we can always achieve the right functionality and style for a project – it’s why we continue to work with the brand. The solutions are straight-forward to install and provide fantastic quality at a competitive price.” Project Director, Jeff Spears from Juniper Homes says: “In this unique development that comprises period and contemporary buildings, Hamilton provided us with a stunning design solution that maintains consistency throughout, tailoring the finishes to suit the age of each building. Often an overlooked design element, Hamilton’s electrical wiring accessories contribute to the high-quality, polished finish that was the vision for the project. Additionally, being a Bristol-based developer, it’s great to work with and support another local company. With Hamilton being based in Brislington, the team understood the heritage of the property, the significance it has in the local landscape and the importance of getting the quality, look and feel right – it’s something Hamilton has achieved to an exceptionally high standard.” Hamilton Litestat, Hamilton-litestat.com
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25/08/2021 10:05
Academy
Sustainability strategy: Did you know that only 1 in 10 organisations have all the green skills needed to achieve their goals?
*
Our Net Zero Academy online courses provide the ideal solution to help upskill employees in topics that are needed to help meet a sustainable green agenda. Our range of courses are designed to meet the challenges faced by engineers in all sectors, with both the technical and professional skills that they need to help deliver a sustainability strategy in their organisation and help lower their environmental impact.
The IET Academy provides Net Zero courses in the following disciplines: SMART HOMES
SMART GRIDS
RENEWABLE ENERGY
EV CHARGING
Find more at: theiet.org/greenskills-courses *Statistics taken from the ‘IET skills for net zero and a green recovery 2020 survey’. See the theiet.org/greenskills-survey for details. The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) is registered as a Charity in England and Wales (No. 211014) and Scotland (No. SC038698). The Institution of Engineering and Technology, Michael Faraday House, Six Hills Way, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2AY, United Kingdom.
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26/08/2021 11:27 11:43 26/08/2021
COMPETITION
LEDPRO — STILL THE INSTALLER’S FAVOURITE One of the most popular Timeguard product launches ever has been LEDPro, a range of outdoor LED lighting that really does tick all the boxes for professional installers.
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or those of you still unfamiliar with the concept (where have you been?), LED Pro is a range of floodlights with interchangeable controls. Installers choose the most suitable floodlight power for the job at hand, from 10W to 100W, and then decide which switching module to plug in. Options include PIR, photocell and RF remote, or the flood can be used as a slave (there’s a spare terminal for looping out). Change your mind? No problem, it’s easy to change the mix with any of the compatible components in the LEDPro range – including the exciting new integrated security camera option due out this autumn. Finally, a range that puts you in charge of the specification for a great custom install.
July Competition The winner of the July competition – a signed Manchester United football shirt, courtesy of Kohler – was Brian Fisher.
This month’s prize - fun and freedom! Finally we are out and about – although putting up with the queues and uncertainty of international travel is still a step too far for many of us. So this month’s prize is all about fun in the UK, with Virgin Experience vouchers worth up to £250 from Timeguard. Spend yours on days out, short breaks, trying a new sport or even online experiences – just enjoy!
Closing date
To enter the competition, just answer these three simple questions: 1. Timeguard LEDPro switching choices already include: a) PIR or photocell b) PIR or RF c) PIR, photocell or RF
2. You can match any of the automatic switches with any of the LEDPro floodlights. What is the maximum power?
3. I t’s easy to swap the automatic switch module on the flood light over at any time in the future. Retrofitting involves: a) Complete rewire b) Reconnecting the switch cables c) No cabling at all – just plug in
a) 10W b) 70W c) 100W
All entries must be returned by 30 September 2021. The editor’s decision is final. For the full terms and conditions, visit electricalcontractingnews.com/ competition-terms. The name of the winner will be published in the November 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: carly@allthingsmedialtd.com.
The answers to August’s competition are:
Contact Preferences Y ES, I would like to receive the ECN newsletter Y ES, I would like to subscribe to ECN magazine
1.............................................................................
Y ES, I would like to share my data with Timeguard
Personal Details Name....................................................................................................................................... Company Name...................................................................................................................... Address...................................................................................................................................
2. . .........................................................................
Signature.......................................................................
................................................................................ Postcode................................................. Tel................................................................ Mobile ................................................................
3. . .........................................................................
Date..............................................................................
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To register to receive your copy of ECN each month, visit electricalcontractingnews.com/subscribe Competition.indd 22
25/08/2021 10:06
Upskill with Domestic Fire Alarm Training NAPIT Training’s new course, BS 5839-6 Fire Detection and Fire Alarm Systems in Domestic Premises, is suitable for practising electricians that are looking to upskill, join the BAFE DS301 Scheme or those responsible for implementing fire precautions in domestic premises.
The course covers: Recommendations on planning, design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of fire detection and fire alarm systems in domestic premises that are: a) Designed to accommodate a single family b) Houses in multiple occupation c) Sheltered housing, including both the dwelling units and the common areas d) Supported housing
All candidates should have knowledge of basic electrical theory principles and experience of electrical installations. Successful candidates upon completion are awarded with a NAPIT Training certificate and will be able to apply to the NAPIT BAFE DS301 Domestic Scheme.*
To book call 0300 9000 700 or visit www.napittraining.co.uk
training
training@napit.org.uk
*BS 7671 18th Edition Qualification and relevant practical experience also required for BAFE DS301 Scheme Application (CPS registration required if undertaking the ‘Installation’ Module).
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23/08/2021 09:47
SHOW PREVIEW
EI LIVE!
Ei Live! CELEBRATES 10 YEARS Carly Wills talks to Ei Live! show organiser David Kitchener, about what electrical contractors can expect from this year’s event. CW: You must be thrilled that Ei Live! Is back this year – what can electrical contractors look forward to at the show? DK: Yes absolutely! With all of us having been locked down for some 18 months, most people have had no human interaction with other business colleagues – I know for a fact that most people are fed up with speaking to a computer screen. Clearly the best way to do business is face-to-face. With no exhibitions taking place for two years, the industry is gagging to get back to doing business at an event. Ei Live! is in its tenth year and is the only dedicated AV and home automation show in the UK, with over 400 brands on show at the event on 29-30 September. We also have a Technical Theatre taking centre stage on the show floor, with key industry speakers presenting industry topics. In fact, at 10am on both days of the show the contractor can learn everything there is to know about HDBastT matrix and signal distribution training and can walk away with an expert HDBaseT expert installer certificate. CW: Why should electrical contractors visit the show? DK: We, as a company, purchased ECN a few years ago now, and the main reason for that was the synergy between the AV and home automation industry and the electrical contracting industry. Many
24 | September 2021
EI Live Preview.indd 24
electricians and electrical contractors are embracing the industry as an additional offering to their customers, and therefore another revenue stream on top of their day-to-day business. If an electrician is in somebody’s house from an electrical perspective, why not upsell and talk to the house owner about installing some AV equipment? Hence another string to their bow in terms of revenue. CW: What are the benefits of electrical contractors getting into the smart homes market? DK: As I mentioned before, if an electrician or electrical contractor is on-site and is able to install some AV or home automation equipment, they can earn more out of that job by doing so. CW: What is the crossover between the electrical and smart home market? DK: The main fact is that while they are installing electrical products, they can also install AV equipment. Whilst, of course, electricians are dealing with high voltage, all AV equipment is low voltage, and they can therefore get involved with AV installations without having to undertake a long apprenticeship, as they do as electricians. CW: Will there be a chance for contractors to learn more about the smart home market during the show?
DK: Yes absolutely. Ei Live! exhibitors are the major distributors and manufacturers in the AV and home automation industry and, as such, every exhibitor will always take installers under their wing – be they electricians or dedicated AV installers – and teach them about the products and services they have to offer. All distributors and manufacturers will have training courses (often free of charge) and a good network supporting the installers, either outside of their day-to-day business or with any problems that occur with any piece of equipment on site – there is always a helpline related to the equipment they would be installing. The Ei Live! Technical Theatre has 16 sessions across the two days of the show, all of which are designed to bring new people to the market or established installers fully up to speed with products and industry matters. So, in summary, all electricians and electrical contractors are able to offer their customers something extra by incorporating the AV and home automation industry into their everyday offering. The Electrical Contractors Association (ECA) is also encouraging its members to get involved in the AV industry, given the many benefits and additional revenue that can be achieved by doing so. To book your FREE ticket, please visit eiliveshow.com
electricalcontractingnews.com
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26/08/2021 12:00
SHOW PREVIEW
EI LIVE!
EI LIVE! TECHNICAL THEATRE
Knowledge is power Bursting with experts, tech talks and learning opportunities, the Ei Live! 2021 Technical Theatre represents a massive opportunity to attend in-person training for the first time, in a long time. With sessions covering a vast range of subjects and pulling in experts from across the industry, we are confident there will be something for everybody, no matter your level of experience or expertise. Take a look at the sessions available by visiting the website and you can begin to organise your time at Ei Live! 2021 by registering for the sessions you want to attend. For a full synopsis and book your sessions go to eiliveshow.com The Technical Theatre 2019 was a huge success
WEDNESDAY 29TH SEPTEMBER
THURSDAY 30TH SEPTEMBER
TIME
SESSION
DURATION
TIME
SESSION
DURATION
10.00 - 11.15
CERTIFIED HDBASET INSTALLER EXPERT TRAINING
1HR 15MINS
10.00 - 11.15
CERTIFIED HDBASET INSTALLER EXPERT TRAINING
1HR 15MINS
11.25 - 11.45
10,000 RACK BUILDS LATER, WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
20MINS
11.30 - 11.50
THE POWER OF PREDICTION (AI) IN SMART HOMES
20MINS
11.55 - 12.55
LARGE FORMAT DISPLAYS – WHAT’S BEST WHERE, AND WHY?
1HR
12.15 - 13.15
OVERCOMING AUDIO PAIN POINTS
1HR
13.05 - 13.25
DSP VS EQ
20MINS
13.30 - 13.50
PROS AND CONS OF DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY
20MINS
13.35 - 13.55
HOW TO PROGRESS ALONG THE ROAD IN BECOMING A SMARTER INSTALLER
20MINS
14.00 - 14.20
CYP – TBC
20MINS
14.05 - 14.25
ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO AV DISTRIBUTION TROUBLE SHOOTING
20MINS
14.35 - 14.55
THE IMPACT BUILDING AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGY HAS ON OUR HEALTH AND WELLBEING
20MINS
14.35 - 14.55
THE BENEFITS OF JOINED-UP DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS IN SOCIAL HOUSING
20MINS
15.15 - 15.35
SWITCHED ON: LIGHTING FOR EYE AND BRAIN
20MINS
15.05 - 15.25
GUDE – TBC
20MINS
15.35 - 15.55
EDUCATING DESIGN & BUILD PROFESSIONALS USING THE 5 LEVELS OF A SMART HOME
20MINS
electricalcontractingnews.com
EI Live Preview.indd 25
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September 2021 | 25
26/08/2021 12:00
INTERVIEW
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE In the first in our series of interviews with leading figures from within the electrical sector, Carly Wills talks to CEO of the ECA, Steve Bratt, about his role at the ECA, the work that the association does, and it’s plans for the future. CW: Tell us about yourself and how you got into the sector. SB: I’ve been Group CEO of ECA since 2010. My previous career has been mostly in technical and commercial management roles in the construction and utility sectors, although I have had spells running businesses in printing, management consultancy and advertising. This is my first time leading a trade association and I can honestly say it is far more challenging than I had anticipated, but also much more satisfying, as ECA fulfils a very valuable purpose. CW: For those who may not know, can you give us an overview of the work that the ECA does? SB: ECA is owned by its Members, which are contractor businesses of all sizes within the broader electrotechnical and engineering services sector. We are non-profit distributing, which means that any profits made within the group are put back into achieving our purpose, which is to lead the industry and our Members to growth and prosperity. We aim to do that by positively influencing the development, capability and reputation of our industry and by helping contractors to run successful businesses. We provide a vast range of supporting services to our Members, including commercial, legal, technical, health and safety, employment, training and skills, to name just some. We also provide free online tools to help Members manage their businesses, including eRAMS and eCOMS. All services are free at the point of use to Members. We also work with Members to develop and influence industry standards, codes of practice and legislation. ECA is unique in this regard, as our policy is informed by contractors and other industry bodies and is done with the aim of improving our industry, as opposed to providing a dividend for shareholders. CW: Tell us about your current role – what are you responsible for and what does the normal working day consist of? SB: ECA is a group of diverse companies, all contributing to the development of the industry in one way or another. I am involved in some way with most of these companies so my day can involve all manner of things. It is rare that any two days are the same. I am also a member of the Construction Leadership Council and lead their Business Models Workstream. This involves leading cross-industry groups to develop advice and support for construction-related businesses. It has been quite time-consuming, particularly during the COVID-19 crisis. However, I am hoping it will lead to
26 | September 2021
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CW: What’s next for you and for the ECA?
improvements in areas like fair and prompt payment, retentions and fair contracts, so it will hopefully be time well spent.
SB: I will continue to lead the Construction Leadership Council’s Business Models work and hopefully deliver improvements in fair practices for contractors in areas like payment and retentions. I am also keen to see competence levels improved and see an increase in apprenticeship recruitment, direct employment and investment in skills. ECA has a clear strategy built around improving the industry and helping contractors to thrive. We have lots of plans and initiatives to help us deliver this strategy and members can look forward to continually improving support through new products and services.
CW: What are the best things about your role? What are the most challenging? SB: I enjoy the diversity, but the best thing is knowing that the work being done relates to a good purpose and that if you do it well, the industry and the good quality contractors within it will benefit. The most challenging thing is getting our industry rightfully recognised for the critical role it has to play in achieving many of the important targets on the government’s agenda – net zero for instance. We need government, clients and consumers to understand that the things that make a building work are just as, if not more important, than the structure itself, and they should recognise the importance of electrical contractors. CW: How has COVID-19 affected the industry? Do you think things will be finally able to get back to ‘normal’ soon? SB: The impacts of COVID-19 will be with us for some time yet as we see issues like material and labour shortages and price increases work their way through the system. The contractual impact of all of this is yet to be fully seen, as no doubt there are many disputes still to be resolved and many contracts being taken on without due consideration for the volatility we will continue to experience. CW: Aside from COVID-19, what have been the biggest changes across the industry in recent times? What will be the biggest changes in the future?
“The impacts of COVID-19 will be with us for some time yet as we see issues like material and labour shortages and price increases work their way through the system”
SB: The industry continues to be its own worst enemy. Even when work is plentiful, there is always someone willing to take a job at an unreasonably low price, or take on unwise risks, and even accept outrageous payment arrangements. This ultimately drags everybody down. Although not particularly evident yet, there is an underlying desire, and some development work being done on collaborative, fair and value-based procurement and delivery models, such as the Construction Playbook, The Value Toolkit and Insurance Backed Alliancing. Not much is going to change in the short term, but in the longer term we need to see this philosophy gain traction. This is the reason I joined the Construction Leadership Council, so that I can do all I can to push this forward. I think the biggest issue moving forward is net zero. The good news is that our industry is very well placed to play a major part in achieving our ambitious targets and to rightfully prosper in the process.
electricalcontractingnews.com
CW: What do you think are the most exciting products or technologies coming to the market? SB: I think we have only scratched the surface when it comes to adopting new technology in our sector. There are new opportunities emerging all the time to vastly improve the productivity and quality of electrical installations, help businesses operate more efficiently, and of course to offer new products to customers. The decarbonisation of heat and transport is one of biggest areas where technology is now having a big impact. We are already seeing strong growth in electric vehicle charging, and heat pumps are often quoted as the ‘great green saviour’. However, with buildings’ thermal performance improving all the time, there are growing opportunities for direct electrical heating, which is less disruptive to install, has lower installation costs and needs minimal maintenance. As our buildings continue to become a bigger part of an active and flexible energy system, smart controls, on-site energy generation and battery storage will also become more prevalent and indispensable. Add to this the need for systems integration and digitisation, and it is clear that all sub-sectors in the electrotechnical industry stand to benefit. Our challenge is finding the right technicians with the right skills to do this important work properly. We already have a shortage of competent operatives, and we urgently need to upskill people now. CW: What are your interests away from work? SB: I have been refurbishing an older property, so my break from construction has been more construction just lately. However, when I’m not taxi driver to my children or walking the dog, I do squeeze in the occasional game of golf, watch a football or rugby game or relive my youth at a music festival. ECA, eca.co.uk
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25/08/2021 10:08
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23/08/2021 09:48
SPECIAL FEATURE
HVAC
ENERGY SAVING VENTILATION FOR COOLER COWS Livestock production is a challenging business. Farmers are under continuous pressure to sustainably deliver quality fresh produce while meeting aggressive pricing demands. Simultaneously, consumers are increasingly concerned about the welfare of the animals they consume. Animal welfare is important for dairy farmers too, but their key challenge is satisfying those needs in a manner that is affordable at acquisition and during operation.
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ows in barns require proper ventilation to support their well-being and avoid illness. Large fans hung from the roof help to dry the floor and lower humidity while also removing odours and gases produced by the livestock’s urine, manure and breathing. This reduces hoof and udder hygiene issues, even in the winter months. During summer, excessive heat can result in cow discomfort, leading to lower reproduction efficiency and reduced milk quality and production. Ventilation systems increase airflow over the cows, reducing the risk of heat stress. Bioret-Agri has been supplying farmers with innovative animal comfort products since 1983, with a particular focus on dairy cows. When mounted in the barn’s rafters, the company’s ventilation system is unique in delivering 360° of airflow, reducing the heat stress on cows. To further improve the product and reduce power consumption, the company was looking to move from an induction motor (IM) to a permanent magnet (PM) type. This required a suitable motor inverter.
The original IM-based solution only offered a simple on/off control. The move to a PM motor provided a chance to add variable speed control that responded to the temperature in the barn. This would ensure that energy consumption was kept to a minimum and ventilation noise would be held at the lowest possible volume. With barns reaching up to one hundred metres in length, multiple ventilators can be installed along the roof’s length. Therefore, the motor inverter solution selected would need to be capable of communicating with the other ventilators to ensure a uniform airflow throughout the building. Having reviewed the application requirements, Delta’s team of engineers proposed the ME300 Series from its broad portfolio of motor inverters. It was ideally suited to the 2.2kW electrically commutated PM motor selected, supporting the maximum target speed of 1,800RPM. This compact vector control drive has been reduced by 60% in volume over previous generation drives, enabling it to be easily integrated into the Bioret-Agri Cyclone 360 ventilator. The screwless design of the terminal blocks simplifies manufacturing,
“The move to a PM motor provided a chance to add variable speed control that responded to the temperature in the barn”
Ventilation systems increase airflow over the cows, reducing the risk of heat stress
28 | September 2021
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electricalcontractingnews.com
while its built-in Class A (C2/C3) EMC filter saves both space and the procurement of additional parts. Thanks to its optimised hardware layout and anti-pollution design, it was also ideal for resisting the dust and fibres prevalent in barns. Like many recent projects, Bioret-Agri and Delta faced challenges during the development of the Cyclone 360 due to restrictions imposed by COVID-19. The ME300 can be parameterised to match the motor being driven. However, without direct access to the motor on-site, the Delta team was forced to remotely undertake the required system optimisation. User control is implemented with a simple on/off signal, while a single output indicates any system errors. Ventilator speed across multiple Cyclone 360s is synchronised via an analogue output that links to each subsequent ME300 motor inverter. The Cyclone 360 operates at 20% of its maximum speed when the temperature lies between 3°C and 18°C. As the temperature rises beyond this upper limit, the motor speed increases. In operation, the new ventilator has been shown to consume up to 32% less energy than the previous IM-based model. To further improve system functionality, it is planned to integrate the ME300’s flying catch capability in the next firmware upgrade. This allows the inverter to search for the correct drive speed, should the fan already be rotating, without first having to bring the rotor to a standstill. “This has been an exciting project, much different from the typical industrial applications we usually address,” says Jean-Charles Cuzin, Field Application Engineer at Delta Electronics. “COVID added to the development challenges, but resourcefulness and dedication by the team ensured we overcame them.” Yannick Daubelcour, R&D Manager at Bioret-Agri says, “The professional support provided by Delta Electronics and the local partner allowed us to meet our design goals. The Cyclone 360 remains an innovation leader in barn ventilation systems, and this latest design improves animal welfare by being quieter in operation and lower in energy cost.” Delta Electronics, delta-emea.com
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25/08/2021 10:09
The new Helacon Plus Releasable The universal push-in wire connector for all types of wire www.HellermannTyton.co.uk
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25/08/2021 12:09
SPECIAL FEATURE
HVAC
GROUND SOURCE HEATING SOLUTION BEING INSTALLED IN UK’S FIRST NET ZERO CARBON RETIREMENT COMMUNITY Ground source heat pumps manufactured and installed by the Kensa Group will deliver the lowest carbon heating solution for the UK’s first net zero carbon retirement community, creating a sustainable future for older generations.
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he Millfield Green site in Caddington, Central Bedfordshire, will provide 200 sustainable new-build homes specifically designed to accommodate older people’s needs, as well as a village centre with state-of-the-art wellbeing and leisure facilities. The development will use renewable energy generation throughout, including Kensa Heat Pumps’ ground source heat pumps, which will give the senior residents ample heating and hot water, whilst helping to combat climate change. The heat pump system, containing a mix of residential and commercial properties, will be the largest of its kind to have been installed by Kensa to date. Kensa Contracting was enlisted for the project by Inspired Villages, a developer and operator of later living homes, owned by Legal and General, which has a 35% stake in the Kensa Group. Inspired Villages carefully considered several different renewable heating systems before concluding that ground source heat pumps would provide the lowest carbon and lowest cost heating solution for the development. Dr Stuart Gadsden, Director of Sales for Kensa Contracting, says: “Retired communities deserve safe heating systems that are low cost, low air pollution and low carbon. Once installed, the ground source heat pumps will provide plentiful heating and hot water for the senior residents at Millfield Green, improving their quality of living and tackling two serious national emergencies: climate change and fuel poverty. “Many older people face tough choices each winter about how to cover the cost of keeping warm, and poorly heated homes result in health problems and can even contribute to loss of life. By investing in ground source heating systems, Inspired Villages have ensured optimum comfort and low running costs for residents who can enjoy their retirement without worrying about whether they can afford to run their heating, as well as knowing that they are having a positive environmental impact.” Ground source heat pumps extract heat energy from the ground and convert this for use in space heating and hot water inside a home. They are electrically-powered devices with no point-of-use emissions,
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The carbon footprint of the heat pumps will decrease even further
“Ground source heat pumps extract heat energy from the ground and convert this for use in space heating and hot water inside a home.”
meaning they help maintain local air quality and combat global warming. They are also highly efficient compared to other heating systems, typically delivering between three and four units of heat for every one unit of energy consumed to power the system. As the electricity grid further decarbonises with more renewable generation from wind and solar, the carbon footprint of the heat pumps will decrease even further. The government recognises that renewable technologies, such as the ground source heat pumps being installed at Millfield Green, are a vital part of the UK’s decarbonisation plan – this is reflected in their target to install 600,000 heat pumps a year by 2028. Following advice from the Climate Change Committee on the Sixth Carbon Budget, prime minister Boris Johnson has recently agreed to legislate a new target to slash national emissions by 78% by 2035, to move the country three-quarters of the way towards its 2050 net zero ambition. Developers like Inspired Villages are leading the way by creating sustainable communities for the future, utilising technologies with as minimal environmental impact as possible. The project will feature Kensa’s Shoebox ground source heat pump, which is small and compact enough to be installed inside the airing cupboard of each apartment. Larger output Kensa Plantroom heat pumps will provide heating and hot
electricalcontractingnews.com
water for shared facilities, including an on-site restaurant, café, library, cinema room, and wellness centre featuring a swimming pool, fitness studio and gym. Drilling for an ambient temperature shared ground loop array utilising boreholes drilled to depths of between 145-190m has recently been completed on site, which will provide a source of sustainable heat energy for the ground source heat pumps installed inside each property. This innovative heat pump system architecture, pioneered by Kensa, avoids heat losses through distribution pipework which increases system efficiency. It also allows each homeowner to have independent control over their own heating and hot water, and the freedom to switch energy supplier. Dr Matthew Trewhella, Managing Director of Kensa Contracting, says: “I am very pleased to see our first project with Inspired Villages making progress. The long-term ownership business model of Inspired Villages is ideally suited to the shared ground loop array system architecture. The shared ground array becomes a long-term, low-maintenance asset that will serve the community for decades and the heat pumps fit neatly into each home to enable the extraction of energy from the ground array.” Kensa Contracting, kensacontracting.com
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25/08/2021 10:10
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24/08/2021 11:14
SPECIAL FEATURE
HVAC
THE HEAT IS ON Matt Parton, Product Development Manager at ESP, gives some insight into the current market for residential heating.
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ESP made the decision earlier this year to invest in the development of its Sangamo range
he 15th edition of the ‘Residential Central Heating Market Report UK 2021-2025 Analysis’ has recently been published by AMA Research. The report represents an informed and up-to-date review of the residential central heating market and now includes heat pumps. It cites the UK residential central market as substantial, with an estimated value of around £1.2bn at manufacturers’ prices in 2020. In June 2019, the UK became the first major economy to pass laws to end its contribution to global warming. The target will require the UK to bring all greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050. As a result, it is likely that the type of products used to centrally heat UK residential homes will change considerably in the near future. For example, the government Future Homes Standard, to be introduced by 2025, will require all newbuild homes to be future-proofed with low carbon heating and world leading levels of energy efficiency. This will include the use of renewable heating technologies such as heat pumps as an alternative to boilers, and as such these have now been included in the market calculations. Central heating is installed in around 92% of UK residential homes, with market penetration remaining at a similar level over the last five years. Gas-fired systems currently account for the majority of installations.
Smart heating controls Over recent years this market has benefited from more stringent energy efficiency legislation and the introduction of new technologies, such as smart heating controls. According to further research – the ‘Domestic Central Heating market report (2018-2022)’ – also from AMA Research, smart heating controls are likely to take market share from conventional heating controls in the longer term. In 2017, it was estimated that around 30% of heating controls sold by value were smart heating controls. This figure is likely to increase to over 45% of heating controls sold by value by 2022. There is a growing awareness of the benefits of smart heating controls. UK householders are becoming much more environmentally aware and are using smart heating solutions in order to minimise energy usage and to save money. It is estimated that around 5% of UK homes now have smart heating controls installed. The heating market is mature, with central heating installed in around 92% of UK homes. However, growth potential still exists, through product innovation designed to improve thermal performance, energy efficiency and control. The shift to smart heating controls is likely to be gradual and a large number of homeowners are expected to continue with conventional solutions. The primary focus of many suppliers will be key benefits such as ease of use and convenience for customers.
Smart thermostat and energy efficient heating A smart thermostat is something that installers can easily add to their customers’ home heating, allowing householders to control and monitor the room temperature and thermostat activity from anywhere in the world, via an app on a smart phone or tablet. The Sangamo Wi-Fi Thermostat launched last year offers energy efficient programming and remote access via the Sangamo Choice app. It has been designed to be straightforward to install and operate and is suitable for electric, gas or oil systems. With energy efficiency top of the agenda for the economy, businesses and householders, ESP made the decision earlier this year to invest in the development of its Sangamo range of timers and heating controls. A key aim of the revamp was to introduce features that will assist with efficiency and performance and that will ultimately drive down energy usage and costs.
32 | September 2021
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Energy efficient heating The new-look Sangamo offer can be broken down into four main product categories – Timer Controls, Thermostats, Programmable Thermostats and Programmers – with a total of 15 products making up the comprehensive range. The Timer Control collection of products is designed for simplistic ON/OFF manual or scheduled control for heating and lighting applications. The range has been expanded with a total of three new products, each one introducing the addition of a fused spur switch for additional protection for high loads. The Thermostat range of products – designed for controlling heating systems via an electronic sensor – now totals five products. The Programmable Thermostat products are designed for controlling heating applications via an electronic sensor or programmed schedule, and ESP has added one new product to this range. All thermostat products have been upgraded and now offer TPI (Time Proportional and Integral) control for heating efficiency. In addition, the programable thermostats include an optimisation feature; Optimum Start/Delay Start and Optimum Stop, for extra efficiency. The Programmers are designed for heating and hot water controlled independently across separate channels via a programmed schedule. A total of three products make up this range varying from 1-3 channel options and including an optional service interval function to assist with Gas Safety Regulation compliance. ESP believes this new comprehensive offer will make it easier for contractors to select the right solutions for the project in hand and will provide wholesalers with a greater choice of products that will encourage upselling.
The range has been expanded with a total of three new products
The type of products used to centrally heat UK residential homes will change considerably in the near future
ESP, espuk.com
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25/08/2021 10:10
Then, Now, Tomorrow
email: info@espuk.com
Untitled-10 1 ad - 100 Years.indd 1 ECN September
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24/08/2021 13:47 24/08/2021 11:34:06
SPECIAL FEATURE
HVAC
NATIONAL VENTILATION SCORES A HAT-TRICK AT MIDDLEZOY ROVERS FC National Ventilation has designed and supplied ventilation for the Middlezoy Rovers FC clubhouse.
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Middlezoy Rovers is very impressed with the design and technical information supplied by National Ventilation
he Somerset-based project used a mixture of three fans, which were installed by M-Tech: Monsoon Zone 1 Silent fans, Monsoon ILF inline centrifugal fans, and Monsoon ACF acoustic inline fan to provide effective ventilation in the function room, WCs, the kitchen, club room and changing rooms. The new clubhouse replaced an old WW2 building that had previously been used as changing rooms. National Ventilation’s fans have been installed to help reduce the damp commonly associated with the wet areas in changing rooms, as well as eliminating any stale odours. In addition, the ventilation supplied means that the new function room can accommodate 200+ people to be in the room at one time. “We were happy to offer our free ventilation design service to Middlezoy Rovers FC. As part of the service, we arranged a site visit before designing the system and providing the design, specification and quotation to ensure the club had the right equipment to meet the ventilation needs of the project,” explains Christian Rehn, National Project and Design Manager at National Ventilation. “We work closely with architects and contractors throughout the design process and offer site visits to avoid unnecessary surprises if the building doesn’t quite match the plans.”
34 | September 2021
HVAC – National Ventilation.indd 34
The new clubhouse replaced an old WW2 building that had previously been used as changing rooms
Middlezoy Rovers is very pleased with the ventilation design support provided by National Ventilation for the project: “Middlezoy Rovers is very impressed with the design and technical information supplied by National Ventilation. The willingness to offer the free design service, associated with the very competitive costs meant that National Ventilation was always going to win the contract”, says Craig Berry, Middlezoy Rovers FC Club Treasurer. Monsoon Zone 1 Silence Fans were installed in the ceiling in the official’s changing rooms, the men’s and ladies WCs, the disabled WC and the kitchen, allowing the buildings to benefit from improved indoor air quality (IAQ) and a room free from condensation and mould without having to put up with the annoying drone associated with some extractor fans. Providing high extraction rates combined with low energy use and exceptionally quiet – running as low as 22dB(A) – the Monsoon Zone 1 Silence Range comes with a long-life ball bearing motor and a silent back draft shutter, preventing air travelling back up the duct and into the room. Installation is made simpler and more accurate thanks to an in-built spirit level to ensure a straight install, and a larger terminal block to make wiring easier. It’s also suitable for install with longer duct runs. Meanwhile, the four main changing rooms at Middlezoy Rovers FC were fitted with Monsoon ILF inline centrifugal fans which are high power exhaust ventilation system designed for commercial premises. Suitable for long duct runs and the Monsoon ILF inline centrifugal fans are speed
electricalcontractingnews.com
controllable, and moisture resistant to IP44 motor protection rating. The fan features a backwards curved impellor powered by a single-phase motor with external rotor and overheating protection with automatic restart. Built to last, the Monsoon ILF has a motor fitted with ball bearings for a long service life for at least 40,000 hours. Meanwhile, in the function room, Monsoon Acoustic Cabinet Centrifugal (ACF) fans were installed. Ideal for commercial applications which require high air flow but low sound levels, the Monsoon Acoustic Cabinet Centrifugal ACF range features a sound-proofed acoustic lined box and galvanized steel casing and impellor. It is fully speed controllable and has a backwards curved centrifugal impellor and motors are equipped with built-in thermal overheating protection with automatic restart. The ACF range has low-noise motor ball bearings and maintenance-free fan operation. National Ventilation’s free design service includes unit calculations and a full kit list, as well as recommended duct routes. Using project drawings, National Ventilation’s team uses its specialist knowledge of the equipment, coupled with software programmes to specify the correctly sized ventilation unit and the correct type and lengths of ducting – whilst ensuring it meets Building Regulations. National Ventilation’s project managers will then carry out a free pre-order site visit to ensure the design will perform as intended. This visit avoids any issues and is a great trouble-shooting exercise. National Ventilation, nationalventilation.co.uk
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25/08/2021 10:11
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27/08/2021 11:29
SPECIAL FEATURE
HVAC
VENTILATION AND COMFORT CONTROL IN THE POST-COVID WORKPLACE Employers across Europe are starting to think about bringing their teams back into the office environment, writes Fabrizio Petris, Senior Business Development Manager at Omron Electronic Components Europe. Yet, after a year of lockdowns and health warnings, it’s natural that many employees will feel anxious or apprehensive about returning to shared workspaces.
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s employees do return to work, their safety of course is paramount, but at the same time issues such as carbon footprint and costs have not disappeared. A great example of an issue that straddles both the ‘old’ and the ‘new’ normal is ventilation. A well-ventilated space is lower risk from the perspective of transmitting COVID and other viruses – but also improves worker comfort, leading to greater willingness to return to office working and productivity. At the same time, the costs are too great to be ignored. Deploying the latest sensor technologies can ensure that ventilation systems operate at the optimum efficiency, generating the greatest effect for the minimum energy input and hence the lowest carbon and economic footprint.
Ventilation
Omron’s 2JCIE-BL01 Environmental sensor
36 | September 2021
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Ventilation, clearly, is based on maintaining the right air flow through a space. Too little, and the room quickly feels airless and can develop odours. Too much, and it becomes too draughty and expensive to heat. Fans can be a low cost and efficient way of providing adequate ventilation, but some form of air velocity control is needed, not least to ensure that the
regulations for ventilation are being complied with. For example, in the UK, the Building Regulations stipulates the provision of adequate mechanical ventilation rates. Sensors such as the Omron Electronics D6F-V MEMS Air Velocity Sensor can improve efficiency by monitoring the exact air rate which is extracted by the fans. These devices can also be used to detect clogged filters in ventilation and air conditioning systems, thereby improving reliability and efficiency. Air conditioning systems also need careful monitoring to ensure that peak performance is maintained. The difficulty is that many conventional airflow sensors aren’t accurate at the very low flows normally encountered in an air conditioning system. Omron’s D6F-PH digital differential pressure sensors overcome this issue by using MEMS technology to create a micro miniature heating element in between two thermopiles. Such accurate maintenance of pressure enables OEMs to maximise the performance of HVAC systems, especially variable air volume (VAV) systems where the dumper can regulate the airflow in ducts and thus achieve noiseless and efficient control.
Omron D6T thermal sensors are based on an infrared sensor which measures the surface temperature of people and objects
Thermal sensors Heating and ventilation systems use a lot of energy. With most employers phasing the return to the office, clearly many spaces such as meeting rooms will see lower levels of use. Accurate people detection systems allow heating and ventilation systems to be throttled back when a space is empty, and their output scaled appropriately to the occupancy when it is in use. Temperature measurement sensors are much more effective than movement sensors for this purpose. For example, Omron D6T thermal sensors are based on an infrared sensor which measures the surface temperature of people and objects without touching them. It achieves this by using a thermopile element, which absorbs radiated energy from the target object. When applied efficiently, such thermal sensors can not only control energy consuming services, but also monitor movements around the building and occupancy ratio for a better usage of office space.
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Air quality measurement Maintaining a comfortable office environment is a matter of juggling many factors. In addition to temperature and air flow, parameters like humidity, light level, UV, barometric pressure and air quality (including the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOC)) are all significant. The best solution is to employ a multi-purpose environmental sensor, which makes it very easy to deliver a wide range of measurement functions from just one small component. For example, the Omron 2JCIE offers multiple sensors in one unit that has built-in memory and connectivity through beacon communication.
Conclusion The benefits of returning to the office are too great to ignore. Many appreciate the social aspects of office life, and not all have a home environment that is conducive to productive work. At the same time, the perceived risks of returning to the workplace need to be counter-balanced by recognition of the new safety concerns, as well as by making office spaces as welcoming and comfortable as possible. All this needs to be achieved at an affordable cost to the employer and to the environment. Sensor technologies such as MEMS air flow sensors, thermal sensors and all-in-one environment sensors can work together to provide a workplace that is safe, comfortable and affordable for all. Omron Electronic Components Europe, components.omron.eu
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SPECIAL FEATURE
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SPECIAL FEATURE
LIGHTING
NEW AND IMPROVED INCEPTOR OMNI DOWNLIGHT FROM OVIA Ovia has taken its popular Inceptor Omni fire-rated, tri-colour, dimmable downlight and made a number of significant improvements to enhance its overall performance.
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irst launched in 2017 as part of Ovia’s premium Inceptor product range, Inceptor Omni has proved a popular choice for installers thanks to the ease of installation and flexibility it offers. It incorporates Ovia’s award-winning Flameguard system technology and is I-joist rated for 30, 60 and 90 minutes. Retaining all the qualities of the original version, the new Omni V2 now boasts a recess depth of just 53mm, thanks to
the Flow integrated driver, which means there is no need for an insulation bracket. Omni V2 is supplied with push-fit Flow connectors which feature push-in, low maintenance terminals to offer another time-saving benefit for installers. With the driver now incorporated into the Flow connector, this means that insulation can be laid over the fitting. Among other key features is a CTA (colour temperature adjustable) switch – a built-in, three position switch which allows for instant change of the colour temperature. The lumen output has been increased, up from 500lm on the original
version, to 600lm for Omni V2 and it now offers an improved 60° beam angle with all colour temperature selections. The faceted front lens has also been increased, now measuring 49mm. Omni V2 offers the option for a fixed bezel (IP65 rated) or adjustable bezel (IP54 rated) in one fitting. It comes with the fixed bezel in a white finish as standard. The adjustable version and other finishes – chrome, satin chrome and black – can be bought separately. A simple twist and lock feature means the bezel can be quickly and easily replaced. Omni V2 comes with a five-year warranty.
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LIGHTING
Halve the installation time Inceptor Omni V2 is supplied pre-wired with push-fit Flow connectors which feature push-in, low maintenance terminals. In a speed test carried out by Ovia, installation times were compared for these fast fit connectors versus the equivalent screw terminal versions and typically the fast-fit versions were completed in around half the time.
modelling, certification and inspection around the world. The new test consisted of a 30 minute I-joist construction – 220mm I-joist; 15mm type A plasterboard and 22mm floor deck (which Ovia believes to be the most common construction types now used within the industry). All firerated downlights from the Ovia Inceptor
Inceptor Omni has proved a popular choice for installers
SPECIAL FEATURE
and Flameguard ranges formed part of the test. To help you understand the issues around testing, Ovia has produced a CPD training module – ‘Downlights and Testing for Fire Rating’, and this is available for delivery on request. Ovia, oviauk.com
Compliance in all ceiling types
Ovia’s fire-rated downlights satisfy the guidelines issued by the NHBC
IN A TIGHT SPOT?
The Inceptor Omni V2 features a recess depth of just 53mm with no insulation support bracket needed thanks to the Flow™ integrated driver.
53mm Recess Depth
Ovia’s full range of Inceptor and Flameguard fire-rated downlights have always been subject to the strictest test measures to ensure they offer full compliance and have the corresponding test certification to meet the very latest regulations. As such, they have all been tested for fire resistance compliance with all ceiling types – solid timber, I-joists and metal web joists. With the increasing use of I-joists as part of floor construction – around 70% of newbuild homes feature engineered timber joists, as opposed to solid timber joists which dominated the market 20 years ago – the National Housebuilding Council (NHBC) updated its technical guidance on recessed light fittings in ceilings to intermediate floors in houses. As a result, the NHBC now requires test evidence showing that recessed downlights are suitable for a similar I-joist and plasterboard combination. Ovia successfully completed further fire resistance testing to demonstrate that its fire-rated downlights satisfy the guidelines issued by the NHBC. The testing was carried out by Efectis – a major player in fire science, covering all fire safety expertise in testing and
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SPECIAL FEATURE
LIGHTING
THE GRENFELL LEGACY: BUILDING SAFETY ‘TUNNEL VISION’ IN THE UK Earlier this year the UK government announced new measures to improve building safety as a result of the Grenfell fire tragedy in 2017. Whilst these new laws are a step in the right direction, this is only one small part of addressing the risks of a lack-lustre approach to emergency lighting across the UK, and only means so much unless it’s enforced to the full extent of the law, says Anthony Martindale, Field Product Manager, Lighting at Eaton.
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There is still inaction over emergency lighting
side from the financial consequences of non-compliance – including past fines of £400,000 and 18-month jail sentences for serious offences – there is the more important consequence of endangering lives and showing a clear decision to focus on cutting costs instead of preserving human life. Whilst no one wishes to see unnecessary constraints, additional costs or bureaucracy, the Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety, otherwise known as the Hackitt Review, made it clear that a significant change in UK construction culture needs to take place. We must evolve our ‘fit and forget’ culture, and revisit building safety measurements, particularly emergency lighting more regularly. Whilst cost is a factor, safety cannot be sacrificed to meet budgets.
Implications The national conversation around dangerous cladding is an important one. However, it has left other important building safety issues in the dark in recent years. In 2020, we’ve seen a £3bn grant for ‘green’ homes, hospitals and schools to help boost green energy and drive employment. Yet still, there is inaction over emergency lighting – one of the most important elements of building safety that has the potential to save lives in an emergency. This is particularly troubling when it comes to buildings at a higher risk, particularly from fires, including schools and hospitals. According to data from the home office, when it comes to residential dwellings in London, 20% of fires in ‘other dwellings’ (not houses/flats) in 2019 occurred in nursing/care homes or hospices and 14% occurred in student residence halls. Whilst many would assume a higher rate of risk would equal increased technologies to mitigate risk during emergencies, this isn’t always the case. According to a 2019 freedom of information request by Eaton, 70 out of the 76 universities to respond (92%) did not have adaptive evacuation signage in place, and only 12 (16%) said they would plan to implement adaptive evacuation signage in the coming three years. The UK government needs to apply the same focus on emergency lighting as it has on cladding and other risks to life in buildings. And this doesn’t necessarily mean increased regulation either. Many individuals and organisations are instead calling on governments to better enforce existing laws to further discourage corner-cutting. It is only by walking the walk can governments affect real change.
Emergency lighting compliance is slipping off the government’s radar
Getting tough Emergency lighting compliance is slipping off the government’s radar – and therefore industry agenda. This puts building occupants at huge risk and has already
lead to the loss of life; for example, the building owner of an indoor market in Aberdeen was fined for not maintaining the lighting in a fire escape which led to the death of an 80-year-old man in 2018. Emergency lighting is not a grudge purchase. It deserves comprehensive and regular maintenance to keep it at a high standard, ready for when an emergency may occur. Based on conversations with UK customers, approximately only 5% of buildings are investigated in a year, so some companies and owners are gambling with people’s lives by not purchasing the correct emergency lighting solutions. The need for this is clear after Grenfell Tower’s failure to upgrade emergency lighting, despite a report a year earlier warning that two-thirds of the tower’s emergency lighting units failed a routine inspection. To properly address the issue of fire safety in UK buildings, the government needs to put in place a viable enforcement regime. For example, establishing an independent body that will investigate installations for compliance or moving to require better proof of maintenance would take us that much closer to compliant emergency lighting across the UK. Increased fines and a stronger threat of criminal prosecution will also help to support efforts to ensure increased building safety. As the nature of risk changes in buildings across the UK, it’s important the government, alongside building owners and managers, don’t lose sight of the full picture and ensure every element of a building is compliant with regulations, and emergency lighting is a huge piece of the safety puzzle. Unfortunately, it’s not enough to simply set regulations. Only when proper enforcement is in play will those responsible be deterred from corner-cutting and truly understand the gravity of their decisions and the impact on the lives of occupants. Eaton, eaton.com
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SPECIAL FEATURE
LIGHTING
ENERGYS DELIVERS LED LIGHTING UPGRADE TO LONDON’S NEWHAM COLLEGE Newham College – situated in East London – has recently instigated a comprehensive lighting upgrade at both its East Ham and Stratford campuses. The college wanted to move away from traditional light fittings towards an LED-oriented infrastructure, with sensor-based controllers allowing energy consumption to be optimised with regard to occupancy and usage patterns.
The new lighting has been praised by staff, pupils and visitors
Dramatic reductions in energy costs Installation and commissioning were completed earlier this year. As well as offering dramatic reductions in energy costs and carbon emissions, the new lighting has been praised by staff, pupils and visitors. The revamped lighting infrastructure draws from many current products in the
Energys range, including IntelliDim smart solutions. Using cutting-edge sensors, IntelliDim products are designed to be used with a smartphone app that allows the commissioning of precise light levels to maximise energy saving, as well as setting parameters for occupancy time out and daylight harvest in a seamless dimming. It is common for IntelliDim to deliver a further 10-30% saving on top of that, which is normally gained by upgrading from traditional lamps to LEDs. Newham College has been equipped with significant numbers of both IntelliDim LED panels and IntelliDim LED linear fittings. Meanwhile, a project that encompassed indoor and outdoor areas at both campuses made use of numerous other Energys products, including: LED downlights, LED decorative suspended lights, IP65 LED hi-bay lights, self-test emergency Tridonic LED lights, IP65 outdoor LED wall lights, flood lights, security lights, LED SON replacement lamps, inground LED uplighters and spotlights.
Newham College has instigated a comprehensive lighting upgrade at its East Ham and Stratford campuses
COVID-secure installation The installation work was carried out to a schedule that ensured minimal impact on normal college activities, while there was full compliance with COVID-19 health and safety regulations. The forecasts generated by Energys indicate that both campuses will enjoy significant benefits economically and environmentally in the coming years. At the East Ham campus, a spend of £478K has a likely return on investment (RoI) of five years. Projected per annum savings are £95K (energy costs), 77,497kWh and 160.14 tonnes (CO2). Meanwhile, at the Stratford campus, a RoI of 4.5 years is expected on a spend of £290K, with projected per annum savings of £65K (energy), 389,184kWh and 107.92 tonnes (CO2).
IN A TIGHT SPOT?
The Inceptor Omni V2 features a recess depth of just 53mm with no insulation support bracket needed thanks to the Flow™ integrated driver.
Advancing environmental goals Miguel Tigsilema, Group Operations Estates and Facilities Manager at Newham College, comments: “We are delighted with the results of this collaboration with Energys, which is already making a significant difference to our expenditure on energy. It is also clear that the new lighting is going to advance our long-term environmental goals and the journey towards achieving net zero. The greatly improved quality of the lighting has also been much commented upon.” Raj Gunasekaran, Account Director for Energys, adds: “It is always very rewarding to work on such a large-scale project where the impact of LED lighting is so transformative. The Newham College lighting revamp certainly fits into this category, and will make a major contribution to its long-term carbon reduction strategy. We are also pleased that the new lighting has had such a positive reaction from staff and students.” Energys Group, energysgroup.com
53mm Recess Depth
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ewham College also runs six local neighbourhood learning centres, as well as the Fashion and Textile Museum in Bermondsey, alongside the East Ham and Stratford campuses. It has a strong record of academic excellence, and in 2018-19 registered an overall achievement rate of 90.9% – making it the best performing college in London. The project was given the go-ahead when the college secured funding from the Salix Finance FE College Fund, which has, in recent years, helped realise numerous energy efficiency and carbon reduction projects in Further Education colleges. Making a total investment of £768,000 across the two sites, Newham College engaged Energys Group to supply and install a range of its latest LED light fittings, panels, sensors and controllers.
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SPECIAL FEATURE
LIGHTING
ISARO PRO LUMINAIRES PROVIDE THE PERFECT SOLUTION FOR THE SAFER STREETS FUND INITIATIVE Isaro Pro LED luminaires from Thorn Lighting have been installed as part of an extensive replacement programme of over 157 street luminaires in the Salthouse Road area of Barrow-in-Furness, to address the issue of poor lighting in dark streets to make the area a safer place for the whole community.
The Barrow project will help Cumbria County Council to address several key criteria
Joss Guest Photography
Isaro Pro is a sustainable luminaire that offers a long life and low energy consumption
Joss Guest Photography
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he regeneration project has been undertaken by Cumbria County Council following a successful bid by the Police Crime Commission Office to the Government’s Safer Streets Fund 2020 Initiative and the Home Office funded community safety partnership project. Thorn’s Isaro Pro LED luminaires have been specifically tailored to meet Cumbria County Council’s exact specification, which included the configuration and programming of the luminaires to ensure optimum optical performance and light levels. Isaro Pro is a sleek, robust and high-performance LED street luminaire that provides a future-proof lighting solution. Isaro Pro is a totally sustainable luminaire offering a long life and low energy consumption, and has been specifically designed to prevent light pollution and minimum disturbance to the environment.
With a lifetime of 100,000 hours, efficacy of up to 139lm/W and control options including RF wireless, Isaro Pro guarantees years of reliable performance at an exceptionally low cost of ownership, making it an ideal choice for both new and retrofit projects. With a light output of up to 9500lm, Isaro Pro is powerful enough to successfully fulfil a wide range of street lighting requirements for minor roads, residential areas, and car parks. The unique R-PEC optic allows Isaro Pro to deliver unprecedented optical flexibility with a choice of 14 light distributions that offer highly efficient, comfortable illumination exactly where required. The Barrow project will help Cumbria County Council to address several key criteria, including improved lighting levels with efficient and effective illumination, increased energy efficiency and reduced carbon emissions, in a low-cost solution. Ian Harker, Lighting Manager with Cumbria County Council, comments, “This project demonstrates the Council’s ability to work with partner organisations and communities to improve public services through the pursuit of opportunities
to secure additional funding for the improvement of our highways and transport infrastructure.” Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall who has been working with the relevant councils has welcomed the scheme. “Every resident in Cumbria deserves to live on a safe, clean and welcoming street and that is exactly what the Safer Streets Fund aims to achieve,” he says. “Since the success of the bid in July 2020, we have accomplished so many of the goals we set to help improve the Salthouse Road area of Barrow and I know the residents will greatly benefit from the extra security. Partnering with the constabulary, Barrow Borough Council and Cumbria County Council on this project, we all hope to see a reduction in residential burglaries, robberies, and theft in the area. As PCC, I am committed to creating a safer Cumbria for all and it’s fantastic that we have been able to achieve this in such a short space of time in the Salthouse Road area.” Matthew Boucher, Managing Director of Thorn Lighting’s parent company, the Zumtobel Group UK and Ireland, comments, “We are proud to have the opportunity to work with Cumbria County Council on this regeneration project and to get involved with the Government’s Safer Streets Fund 2020 Initiative. It has long been our belief that lighting companies have a responsibility to help councils to improve street lighting to protect both road users and pedestrians alike, making our streets safer for all. Our ethos is to provide appropriate lighting that enhances safety yet meets today’s demanding energy reduction requirements, with luminaires that deliver exceptional performance and smart solutions that transform our streets.” Thorn Lighting, thornlighting.co.uk
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SPECIAL FEATURE
LIGHTING
WHAT IS UGR AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR ELECTRICIANS? With employees returning to workplaces, electricians need to understand the impact that poor lighting can have on employee comfort, particularly when it comes to glare stemming from more than one competing light source.
The presence of glare can cause extreme discomfort to people working there for long periods
Why is UGR important? Warehouses, factories, shops, showrooms – whatever the commercial premises – the presence of glare can cause extreme discomfort to people working there for long periods. Overly bright lights can bounce off computer screens or white walls, disrupting focus and even causing headaches over a sustained period. There are two types of glare: discomfort glare, a sensation caused by high brightness (usually when a bright light source is in their vision during a visual task) and disability glare, the impairment of vision without necessarily causing discomfort. Either way, fitting lights that comply with European UGR recommendations boosts productivity and improves the quality of life for employees.
What are the recommended UGR levels? This depends on the space. For office lighting, UGR levels of 16 to 19 are generally recommended (although this shouldn’t exceed 19). For industrial environments, the level should be between 22 and 25, while 25-28 is recommended for circulation areas and corridors. A UGR rating beyond 28 is deemed harsh lighting that could cause discomfort, which is why electricians must ensure they have the right lighting applications for the task at hand. The BS EN 12464 standard does specify recommended max UGR levels for different applications across more than 280 different work areas. The standard specifies best practices for providing adequate lighting that meets the need for visual comfort and performance from people carrying out visual tasks.
Red Arrow provides a free lighting design service
Do spaces have to comply with recommended UGR levels by law?
The Inceptor Omni V2 features a recess depth of just 53mm with no insulation support bracket needed thanks to the Flow™ integrated driver.
UGR can be calculated using a formula that takes into account several factors to try and discover the glare caused by the luminaire – these include the luminance of the light, the background luminescence and the likelihood of glare. This is where the distinction really matters, as although lighting products are rated as being UGR<19 rated, the UGR refers to the actual installation not the specific light fitting. In reality, UGR<19 light fittings are so rated because the products have a light distribution that helps the electrician deliver a rating at UGR rating, as long as that product is fitted in the appropriate position. In other words, there is no guarantee that solely using UGR<19 light fittings in an installation will result in a UGR rating of 19 or below.
What’s the key takeaway for electricians?
There is no legal requirement for businesses to deploy a specific UGR level in accordance with their operations. It is likely because a designer could do everything in their power to select light fittings or design rooms in such a way that they hit a particular UGR rating. However, knocking a wall through, adding or removing a window or even simply changing a piece of furniture could impact UGR for the whole room. In short, while not a requirement, it’s still good practice for buildings to fit within the boundaries of regulations so that UGR isn’t damaging employees’ quality of life.
IN A TIGHT SPOT?
How is UGR calculated?
Electricians need to ensure that they have the best possible information about the products they are using, the space they are working with and how that space will be used. That way, they’ll be able to dazzle their clients with fantastically balanced, unintrusive lighting (rather than excessive glare). Red Arrow provides a free lighting design service and is able to help electricians when it comes to calculating UGR and selecting products that will allow them to hit the mark every time. Red Arrow, redarrowelectrical.co.uk
53mm Recess Depth
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hat’s why the Unified Glare Rating (UGR) exists. It’s a measure of the intensity of light coming from an application compared with the intensity of light from the surrounding indoor area. It’s important to remember that the UGR value for an area isn’t dependent on a specific fixture, but rather the room it is in – its shape, size, the reflectivity of walls, ceilings and floors and so on. This means that electricians will often need guidance when it comes to fitting the right lighting products for a commercial space. But why is UGR important, and what do electricians need to know when trying to source products to meet recommended UGR requirements? Red Arrow has answered the key questions below.
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NEXT ISSUE
Smart Lighting & Lighting Control
Circuit Protection & Switchgear
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NEXT TIME… In addition to our regular range of news and viewpoints, the October issue of ECN will contain special features relating to EV charging, circuit protection and smart lighitng. The features will include articles and information from major companies, providing a range of information about the latest issues and technological developments affecting the sectors. For electrical contractors, the features will prove to be a valuable reference point for all that is happening within this area.
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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
LATEST HIGH LUMEN LED FLOODLIGHTS FROM CHALLENGER Challenger has announced new additions to its already popular and successful high lumen LED floodlight range.
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The range has been designed with the installer in mind
48 | September 2021
Advertorial – Challenger.indd 48
mproved performance, coupled with the latest CAD designed casing results in the new range’s super slimline appearance, while providing greater heat dissipation and durability. A full IP65 rating is provided, including PIR models and a high impact rating of IK09 to further improve the installation lifespan. In terms of performance, the range uses the Lumileds chipset along with a polycarbonate lens to provide a high lumen output of up to 135 lumens per watt, with a five-year warranty. The range has been designed with the installer in mind by providing both a pre-wired 1m cable and an easy access mounting bracket. The mounting bracket has been designed and positioned to allow easy manoeuvre of the fitting during installation to gain access behind the product. Coupled with a pre-wired cable, this makes for an easier installation for the contractor. Another great benefit is Challenger’s slim design and the vertical adjustability of the head through 90 degrees, enabling the contractor to effectively position the fixture to ensure light only shines on the required areas, minimising light pollution.
Unlike LED SON replacement lamps which require cooling fans to prevent lamp failure, Challenger’s complete fitting has been designed using the latest technology. The manufacturing process allows for a super slim casing with alloy blade heat sink to allow for efficient cooling, preventing overheating and component failure. There are several new models to the range, which include a new 600w model, boasting a new design which offers improved performance of over 81,000 lumens. It also includes new 15w, 30w and 50w models with and without PIR, which include improved LED chipset arrays and include a selectable wattage feature, providing greater flexibility and options to the installer and end client. These latest additions complement the existing Challenger floodlight range as the
company continually strives to offer the most up-to-date technology with a wide range of options available from 15w up to 600w, including 15w, 30w and 50w PIR versions. The range is ideal for warehouses, commercial buildings, car parks, sports facilities and building facades – or indeed anywhere you need large areas illuminating or bright lighting to deter criminal acts and trespassers. With its sleek design, highly efficient output and ultimate performance, Challenger is your partner in a more secure future. Established for over 30 years, Challenger Security Products has earned an enviable reputation and has the expertise and equipment to provide the solutions needed to meet your requirements. Challenger Security Products, challenger.co.uk
The range is ideal for warehouses, commercial buildings, car parks, sports facilities and building facades
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SPECIAL FEATURE
WHOLESALERS & DISTRIBUTORS supported by
W E N E U G O L A T A C E D TRA
OUT ! NOW
SHOP CEF ON YOUR PHONE Order the electrical products you need from the CEF Trade Catalogue direct from your smart phone. Download the CEF Trade App Today!
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CEF CELEBRATES 70 YEARS WITH A NEW TRADE CATALOGUE AND DREAM HOLIDAY PRIZES CEF, the UK’s leading electrical wholesaler, is celebrating 70 years in business with edition 07 of its trade catalogue and an amazing customer competition.
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o mark 70 years in business, leading electrical wholesaler CEF is launching a platinum edition of its trade catalogue, jam-packed with new products, new offers and a brand-new competition that gives customers the chance to win a holiday of a lifetime up to
the value of £12,500, in collaboration with the European market leader in domestic fire and carbon monoxide protection – Aico. From a single store based in Coventry back in 1951, CEF has now grown to a UK national network of 390 stores. To celebrate its 70th year in business, CEF wants to say a big thank you to all its customers, suppliers and colleagues for their loyalty and support.
Dream holiday competition The latest competition, in partnership with Aico, offers customers the chance to win a voucher to book a dream holiday up to the value of £12,500. And there are hundreds more weekly and monthly prizes including a smart TV, Sonos entertainment system, Nintendo Switch and Apple products. Plus, there are daily competitions to win Costa Coffee vouchers.
NEW CATALOGUE OUT NOW Celebrating 70 years of electrical expertise with new products, new deals and a new competition
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WHOLESALERS & DISTRIBUTORS CEF and Aico are also donating £1 to the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) when customers buy certain products from the Aico range. “We’re proud to have been serving our customers for 70 years and are thrilled that we can offer two amazing holiday prizes as part of our latest catalogue launch,” states Andrew Moseley, CEF’s Commercial Director. “Our competitions are always very popular with customers, and after the challenges of the past 18 months, we’re delighted to be offering two lucky prize winners the chance to take their family on an unforgettable holiday. There are also some great deals on Aico products, plus daily, weekly and monthly prizes up for grabs too. “In addition, we are delighted to be supporting the EIC and the work they do in looking after people from the electrical, electronics and energy industries.”
Easy to shop online Customers can also place online orders at cef.co.uk with access to more than 35,000 products from over 300 leading suppliers. Fast and easy to search, all products are available either for next day delivery or ‘click and collect’ from a local store. With free delivery on orders over £50 and next day delivery available, customers can always find the products they need, when they need them. “We know that time and convenience are incredibly important to our customers – along with consistent everyday value pricing,” adds Andrew.
CEF Trade App That customer choice and service also extends to the CEF Trade App, which has been developed to accompany the catalogue and is available free for both iOS and Android. The CEF Trade App allows customers to purchase products directly from the printed catalogue by simply scanning the product code with their smartphone camera, offering customers increased convenience and flexibility in accessing the company’s extensive range of over 35,000 electrical products. Ordering products using the app is as easy as 1 – 2 – 3:
More choice The latest edition of CEF’s popular trade catalogue features over 800 new products including new ranges from MK, Schneider, Flexicon, iCS and Schill. Plus, new supplier myenergi showcases the latest EV test equipment alongside Beha-Amprobe. There’s new lighting from Fusion, Tamlite, Bell and JCC, as well as new Type A consumer units from Proteus and new caravan hook up units from Rolec, plus much, much more.
1] Scan the catalogue page using your smartphone camera 2] Select the products you need and add to basket 3] Check out securely
390 stores nationwide Issue 07 of the CEF trade catalogue is available to pick up from any of CEF’s 390 stores or copies can be requested from cef.co.uk/request. The catalogue provides customers with a huge choice of electrical products at everyday value prices and features almost 30,000 products from exclusive in-house and leading brand suppliers. Every store has a dedicated team of staff trained to offer outstanding customer service and trade counter expertise that’s recognised as being among the best in the industry. CEF regularly hosts training days for customers and works closely with NICEIC to provide training on topics such as electrical vehicle charge point installation and the latest regulations and standards.
The CEF Trade App can be downloaded from the App Store or GooglePlay. “Our approach is to give customers access to over 35,000 products through the platform that is most convenient and suits them best – which naturally changes from day-to-day based on the job they are working on and where it is.” “We strive to deliver the same consistently excellent customer service however and wherever our customers choose to buy from us,” Andrew continues.
Services and advice As well as an amazing range of products, CEF also offers free, no obligation expertise and value-added services to help with electrical projects, such as lighting design schemes, energy saving advice, and heating scheme design. CEF is also supporting electrical contractors to make the most of the opportunities offered by the growth in the electric vehicle market. Its Electric Vehicle [EV] Charging Guide and dedicated website have all the products, advice and training needed to help customers make the most of the EV opportunity.
Same day range As well as the huge range of products available through the trade catalogue, every CEF store has a core range of almost 3,000 products available off the shelf, helping to ensure that customers can always get their hands on a range of essential products, wherever they are working and whenever they need them.
WIN! BUY AICO TO
0 0 , 5 2 1 £ A N I W PLUS
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LY PRIZES
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CEF is launching a platinum edition of its trade catalogue
“For electrical contractors, facilities managers and other professionals, CEF offers everything you need to get the job done”
National accounts and projects For contractors working on larger projects or businesses that need national support or a single point of contact, CEF’s National Accounts and Projects teams are available to help and can provide customers with technical know-how, materials and pricing consistency on large projects all around the UK.
Tackling waste responsibly CEF is the only electrical wholesaler to have an in-house recycling facility, offering customers industry leading solutions for both hazardous waste treatment and total waste management. In-house company, Waste Experts, provides the most responsive and environmentally sound recycling solution for Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE). The company can offer various on-site container solutions for safe storage of WEEE, lamps and batteries, plus collection of bulky WEEE items. A national specialist fleet means Waste Experts can collect waste from anywhere in the UK, ensuring a reduced carbon footprint and the most efficient solution to manage customers’ waste.
Helping to get the job done For electrical contractors, facilities managers and other professionals who buy or specify electrical products, CEF offers everything you need to get the job done. For more information on the products, services and training provided by CEF, ask in store or visit cef.co.uk. Issue 07 of the CEF trade catalogue is available from 1 September. Pick up a copy in any one of CEF’s 390 stores or request one online at cef.co.uk/request. CEF, cef.co.uk
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WHOLESALERS & DISTRIBUTORS
CUSTOMER CONFIDENCE Marie Parry, Group Marketing Director at Scolmore Group, looks at the findings of some of the latest reports on the electrical wholesaler market.
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There has also been an increased focus on customer-focused multichannel businesses
he ‘UK Electrical Wholesalers Market Report 2021’ from Mintel provides the most comprehensive and up-to-date information and analysis of the UK Electrical Wholesalers market, including the behaviours, preferences and habits of the consumer. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a major reduction in demand for almost all end-use markets, with value falling by 15% in 2020. The main driver in the market is in new construction activity, but lockdowns saw many building sites shut down and a decline in output of the building of houses, public non-residential, private commercial, and industrial construction. With construction sites allowed to remain open during the third national lockdown, there was a slight rise in demand as construction work began again. However,
with many retail sites now moving online to overcome the shutting of non-essential shops, electrical wholesalers saw a rapid increase in competition. There has also been an increased focus on customer-focused multi-channel businesses, with many companies evolving their business model to meet this change in demand.
Ecommerce strategies
“Online trading and clickand-collect services have become more important than ever during the COVID-19 pandemic”
The pandemic has also uncovered some interesting market opportunities that companies could utilise to help boost sales and market recovery. The quick move online has highlighted the demand for improved e-commerce strategies and better infrastructure to help customers shop online and help brands to stand out. Increased awareness of environmental sustainability could also create potential for innovation and diversification of products, especially around green energy and building automation. Online trading and click-and-collect services have become more important than ever during the COVID-19 pandemic and the crisis has further highlighted the need for robust and future-proof e-commerce strategies. In response, electrical wholesaler groups are evolving their business models, with many focusing on creating customer-centric, multichannel businesses. This represents considerable challenges for wholesalers in the level of investment required to compete effectively across channels, as well as the need for faster order processing and improved delivery performance.
Collaborative approach With all these challenges facing the industry, it is more important than ever that wholesalers and their suppliers work together to overcome some of the issues that are being faced. Difficulty in getting hold of some products continues to be an issue for many sectors, but Scolmore has been able to reassure its wholesaler customers and end users with an uninterrupted supply of its full range of products to the professional electrical market. The company’s ability to always hold vast stock levels means that it is able to fulfil orders from across
the group, with its full range of wiring accessories from Scolmore, lighting and lighting control products from Ovia, security, fire protection, heating and timer control products from ESP, and cable accessory products from Unicrimp, all currently available. The company has also been able to continue to drive new product development, bringing to market a raft of brand new products and revamped ranges across all business divisions. Working in partnership with Scolmore ensures that electrical wholesalers have access to the widest possible source of information, resources and promotional support to help them stand out from the crowd and stay ahead in a highly competitive marketplace. Key to this support is the Marketing Hub - a unique website facility for Premier Stockists which is available across the group (Scolmore, Ovia, Unicrimp and ESP) and provides a range of tools that wholesalers can use to enhance their own marketing facilities, all at no extra cost. Using their own unique login details, customers are already benefiting from access to a whole range of promotional material from each company’s entire range of products. Product flyer templates can be downloaded and customised with the stockist’s own details to optimise sales opportunities. A comprehensive product image library plus a range of literature covering every product category is also available. Point of sale material for every brand can also be accessed on request. New tabs on the Marketing Hub sites allow customers to access a vast library of video material which includes a range of promotional product videos as well as handy ‘how to’ guides to help customers identify products and understand their full features and benefits. Customers can easily download these videos for their own promotional use. There is now also access to a raft of social media product images and infographics posted by the group to engage with customers and end users. As the digitalisation of communications continues, Scolmore is seeing an increased uptake of social media images and this new feature will help facilitate wholesaler access to an array of new material to help with their own social channels’ activity. Scolmore Group, scolmore.com
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W O N T OU GUE 07 O L A T CA
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Get the most out of your catalogue. Browse, shop, check stock and pay securely with the CEF Trade App.
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ONE STOP SHOP One order, one invoice, one delivery
Circuit Protection
Wiring Accessories
Wiring Accessories Essentials
Industrial Accessories
Connect with us on:
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50+ Years Serving the Electrical Industry 4000+ Stocked Items 2500+ Electrical Wholesale Outlets
Cable Management
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Control & Automation www.niglon.co.uk
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SPECIAL FEATURE
WHOLESALERS & DISTRIBUTORS
BEHIND THE SCREEN: LIFTING THE LID ON THE PRODUCT INFORMATION THAT DRIVES YOUR CLICKS Data expert Richard Appleton, General Manager at EDA Data Services, gives an insight into the huge efforts by manufacturers and wholesalers to help you find the right products for the job, first time, every time.
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igitalisation – using digital technologies to drive new and enhanced business processes – means many different things to different companies. For larger contractors, the past decade has seen the advent of BIM (Building Information Modelling – using a digital model of a building to support its design, construction and operation) to supplement well established digital design, estimating and procurement processes. For smaller contractors, the emergence of social media and mobile technologies have revolutionised their customer communications and enabled them to manage their businesses while on the move. Meanwhile, accelerated by the pandemic, digitalisation is changing the way every contractor researches, sources and buys electrical products. But how many contractors have stopped to think what this means to their suppliers, the wholesalers? Electrical wholesalers are the essential link in the supply chain, the bridge between hundreds of product manufacturers and many thousands of electrical contractors. It’s not just about logistics and credit terms, wholesalers offer an incredible bank of knowledge at the trade counter and are often the first to communicate product innovation, saving the contractor time and money. Many contractors, however, are still tempted by the convenience offered by new online suppliers, so the challenge for wholesalers is how to combine the benefits of e-commerce with the wealth of added value they can bring through a face-to-face operation. There is no point in trying to compete with an operation like Amazon so, rather than going completely online, wholesalers are moving towards a multi-channel (sometimes called bricks and clicks) sales model where e-commerce works to enhance the traditional business. This enables them to offer new services such as click and collect, mobile ordering apps and online order tracking which support rather than supplant the trade counter business.
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ONTHLY PRIZ
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E-commerce offers convenience, but only if it is built around rich, high-quality product data. It is hard to demonstrate features, benefits and innovation without seeing and touching a product. The product data not only needs to be structured to enable customers to find what they are looking for, but rich enough to provide the kind of immersive experience that enables a buyer to make a confident choice. If the product data is inaccurate, vague, or incomplete then the product purchased may not be right for the job in hand. Purchasing errors are expensive for everyone in the supply chain, plus there’s the additional negativity around poor customer service and dissatisfaction. Not for nothing is product data called the ‘silent sales team’. The problem of creating and managing e-commerce-friendly product data is a new problem shared across the supply chain and one which the wholesalers’ trade body, the Electrical Distributors’ Association (EDA) has been at the forefront of addressing. The EDA has developed a central industry data pool, EDATA, into which manufacturers can upload their product data. Wholesalers can then select the manufacturers and ranges they need and download the data to populate their websites. One of the key facets of EDATA is that the data is owned and managed by the product manufacturers, giving complete traceability back to the ultimate authority on each product. The EDA works closely with manufacturers to onboard their data and trust is achieved by establishing a quality standard and showing the sector exactly what excellent product data looks like. Product features and attributes provided in a consistent, structured format, enable buyers to find the right product. The more product information – wattage, voltage, dimensions, lumens, beam angle, energy rating, lifespan and so on – that is visible, the more confidence the contractor has in their purchase. EDATA is based around the international ETIM standard which provides a framework for rich attributed product data. Behind the scenes, in EDATA there are built-in data quality scores which can
Wholesalers are moving towards a multi-channel sales model where e-commerce works to enhance the traditional business
show the manufacturers and wholesalers just how good their data is. Each product and each manufacturer’s data is awarded a gold, silver or bronze quality rating, which provides a real understanding of their data’s ‘reliability’ factor. To support this further, a working group made up of manufacturers, wholesalers and contractors is researching and publishing best practice guidelines which are accessible and relevant to the sector. Manufacturers change their product data daily. This is another reason why the EDATA data warehouse is crucial: manufacturers can log in and update their product data exactly when they need to. Wholesalers will be notified of the change and can ensure that their websites are kept up to date with the very latest information. When buying products online, most of us think little about the product data: it’s just there. But any contractor who’s had to spend non-productive time waiting for the right product to be delivered can measure the real monetary cost of inaccurate, unreliable data. The work being carried out by the EDA, its members and affiliated manufacturers is building a firm foundation for digitalisation of the supply chain, which will not only secure its future but benefit the electrotechnical sector as a whole for many years to come. EDA, eda.org.uk
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Outdoor Lighting NEW ALFRESCO RANGE OF OUTDOOR LIGHTING AVAILABLE FROM SEPTEMBER 2021 more designs available... LEDAF17
Wall Up & Down Light - IP44, Stainless Steel
LEDAF23
Up & Down Wall Light with PIR - IP44 Copper
LEDAF21
LEDAF15
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Heavy Duty Wall Light with PIR - IP44
LEDAF9
Heavy Duty Wall Downlight - IP44
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LEDAF30 LEDAF10
LED Up & Down Wall Light - IP44
LEDAF19
Ground Spike Light - IP44, Stainless Steel
T. 01279 772 772 Untitled-12 1
Wall Lantern with PIR - IP44
LEDAF7
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LEDAF16
LED Recessed Ground Spot Light - IP67
E. sales@greenbrook.co.uk
LEDAF36
LED Floodlight with PIR - IP54
W. www.greenbrook.co.uk 24/08/2021 14:01
EVIE Smart Home Charging 7.2KW EVIECSP732SHA Pre-launch Offer! £419.99 £350 OZEV grant available to the installer Earth rod not required (Quick installation)
Ready to install with standard wall bracket & fixing (Ground mounting pole available) 3 year manufacturer guarantee Possibility of maintenance contracts for the installer
Included: RFID Card
www.eviecharge.co.uk sales@eviecharge.co.uk
ge.co.uk arge.co.uk
Unit Serial Number:
Unit Serial Number:
CNMH21010001
CNMH21010001
x3 RFID Cards
App Monitoring
LCD Screen
Contact Us:
sales@eviecharge.co.uk Untitled-3 2
24/08/2021 10:05
Go Green, Go Electric! Are you installing EV Chargers? KT66DL: Multifunction Tester
KEWEVSE: Testing Adaptor
Moss September Special Price:
Moss September Special Price:
£209.99
(If purchased with KT66Dl)
£984.99
£298.99 (If purchased separately)
Large colour dot matrix screen Established easy to use interface with one rotary dial and four function keys Two high current loop options: 25A 0.001 Ohm resolution & 6A 0.01 Ohm resolution Two low current loop options: 3 wire & 2 wire EVSE loop option EVSE 6mA DC ramp and tripping time test Surge protection device test Comprehensive RCD function including type EV & B and variable RCD test PAT function including download
Compact and easy to use Checks the functionality of the EVSE Used for commissioning and trouble shooting For use on single phase or three phase systems Type 2 male socket for EVSE connection 4mm connector and alternative BS1363 socket for connecting your tester CP & PP state adjustment rotary switches PE error & CP error simulation test Oscilloscopte output
CABLE MANAGEMENT
Contact Moss Electrical Dartford: 01322 282 700 Manchester: 0161 848 2468 Wales: 01656 765 300
Untitled-3 3
24/08/2021 10:05
SPECIAL FEATURE
WHOLESALERS & DISTRIBUTORS
MOSS TO ACHIEVE NET ZERO CARBON! Moss Electrical aims to become net zero carbon by 2025 – the world is set to miss its emissions target, but Moss will not!
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he recent IPCC report has stated a code red warning for humanity, as climate change is now forecast to be irreversible. Our planet needs saving for our future generations, and it starts with all of us. Moss has established its own ‘Go Green Plan’, comprising of three core elements: • 100% electric fleet • Solar energy – supplying and installing 1.3mW solar panels on the Moss roof • The launch and installation of Moss designed EV chargers
100% Electric Fleet Moss has invested in electric cars and has plans to replace the current fleet of vans and lorries
According to the Mayor of London, polluting vehicles account for nearly half of London’s NOx air emissions. Moss has invested in electric cars and has plans to replace the current fleet of vans and lorries with fully electric/hydrogen, plug-in vehicles. Aside from the benefits of zero tailpipe emissions, a 100% electric fleet will support the world’s energy security.
Solar Energy An impressive 1.3mW of power is produced by the solar panels on the Moss warehouse roof. The energy contribution from the company’s solar panels is a major boost towards Moss becoming net zero carbon and demonstrates a long-term commitment to green energy.
EVIE Chargers After five years of extensive research and development, two industry leading companies based in the UK and Far East have joined forces. Moss Electrical and Huade Technology are excited to announce the launch of their 7.2KW Charge Point into the UK market. The government’s 2030 ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars has created an enormous demand for electric vehicle chargers, with the EV charger market forecast to see a 29% increase annually until 2030. EVIE’s mission is to boost the adoption of electric cars by providing the perfect charging solution. The EVIE Smart Home Charge Point is particularly quick and easy to install, as it does not require an earth rod, amongst many other features. For contractors this significantly reduces installation costs, along with total unit costs. Contractors may also take advantage of the opportunity to offer customers EVIE maintenance contracts as an additional revenue stream using Moss’ promotional offer on chargers and testers within this publication. The EVIE is ready to install with standard wall bracket and fixings. EVIE ‘extras’ are also available, including a ground mounting pole, additional cables, and portable chargers.
An impressive 1.3mW of power is produced by the solar panels on the Moss warehouse roof
The EV charger market forecast to see a 29% increase annually until 2030
The EVIE hardware contains propriety technology that allows direct connection to a PME (Protective Multiple Earthing) supply. The Type B RCD can detect sinusoidal AC and pulsating DC, which is a multi-frequency composite including a smooth DC residual current. The EVIE includes an independent RCMU (Residual Current Monitoring Unit) to provide detection for the PE (Protective Earth) line against the earth leakage current, both from the power source and from EVIE. The RCMU connects to the motherboard and detects the earth leakage on the PE line and sends a signal to the motherboard, which instructs the independent AC Contactor to cut off the power to the L/N/PE lines. The motherboard will isolate all conductors between input and output, including the signal wires CP (Capability Process) and PP (Process Performance), and resets the charger once the fault is cleared. EVIE includes an automatic locking device and a Master Control Board, which integrates multiple protections and guarantees the safety of EVIE and users during the charging process. Safety is at the forefront of EVIE’s work. With plans for a full range of exciting commercial charging technologies, payment platforms and innovation, EVIE will continue to support the shift towards green energy and contribute to Moss’s 2025 target. Everyone should account for and act on the emissions they produce. Moss has set an ambitious goal, with a robust strategy and is determined to be successful. Moss Electrical, mosselectrical.co.uk
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SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY
COMPANY SHOWCASE
COMPANY SHOWCASE supported by
The Complete Consumer Unit
Variable Knockouts
10YR 10 Year Warranty
Metal Consumer Units
Mains Switch Tail Clamp
call: 01827 63454
email: sales@scolmore.com
visit: www.scolmore.com
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ELUCIAN — THE BEST PROTECTION When Scolmore launched its new Elucian consumer unit and circuit protection range in June this year, the company could not have anticipated the incredible levels of interest and huge demand that it would generate.
Marketing support A comprehensive marketing support package was launched to maximise awareness of the new Elucian range, with Scolmore hosting webinars and follow up social media sessions, which saw some impressive engagement statistics. This resulted in nearly 1,000 individuals engaging with Elucian across the various social channels. The webinar saw Scolmore’s technical team talk in great depth about how Elucian complied with the technical standards, focusing on the construction of the units, and the devices that fit inside such as RCCBs, SPDs and RCBOs. Contractors were eager to hear about the safety features of the devices, as this helps them to comply with the standards (BS 7671 the wiring regulations) that are used daily. The live social media session gave contractors the means to extend any questions further with an interactive outlet and immediate answer. The official launch of ‘Elucian by Click’ followed months of extensive research and consultation with contractors and installers to come up with a range of products that best suits their requirements and that are compliant with all the latest regulations. It means that wholesalers and installers now have access to a one-stop shop for everything wiring accessories related from one of the industry’s most trusted and reliable brands, and Scolmore has made a significant investment to ensure that stock levels of the new products are high to meet the continued demand.
Designed with the installer in mind, Elucian is an extensive range of metal consumer units that will cover a broad range of installations and offers a number of features and benefits that will enhance the products’ convenience, flexibility and safety properties.
Consumer unit range The consumer unit collection comprises a total of 58 individual lines which fall under five main product groups: • 100A Mains Switch Consumer Unit • Dual RCCB Consumer Unit – 100A Mains Switch + 2 x 80A Type A RCCB • Dual RCCB/SPD Consumer Unit – 100A Mains Switch + 2 x 80A RCCB + 2 Pole SPD • Combination Unit – 100A Mains Switch + 2 x 80A RCCB • RCD Incomer – Mini Board – RCD Scolmore has highlighted some of the key features that the company believes will make these units stand out in the marketplace: • Non-Combustible Enclosures – to ensure compliance against the third amendment added to the BS 7671 wiring regulations in 2015 requiring consumer units and similar switchgear assemblies in domestic premises to have a non-combustible enclosure. • Mains Switch Tail Clamp – for added stress relief to ensure the Mains Tails terminations do not come loose and to help fix the Mains Switch Isolator more securely to prevent any rocking or movement. • Knockouts – a wide range of 40mm, 32mm, 25mm and 20mm knockouts making each board universally adaptable for all installation and cable types. • Rear Knockouts – for easy removal and to provide ample cabling capacity for any installation type.
Elucian is an extensive range of metal consumer units that will cover a broad range of installations
Scolmore has made a significant investment to ensure that stock levels of the new products are high
• Earth and Neutral Bar Configuration – to allow for best practice installation of each board type, neatness of connections and ease of circuit identification. • Backed off Neutral and Earth Bar Screws – for added convenience and to allow quick and easy termination. • Keyway Din Rail – a fast release Keyway Din Rail allows for ease of installation. • MCB style solid blanks for any unused ways – Din Rail mountable and can only be removed when the cover is removed, for added safety.
Circuit Protection Range The Elucian Circuit Protection Range comprises Mains Isolator Switches, RCCBs, SPDs, MCBs, RCBOs and blank modules: • 2 Pole 100A Mains Isolator Switch • Type A 2 Pole 30mA RCCBs (63A, 80A and 100A) • Type 2, 2 Pole 40kA SPD available in 275Uc (V~) • 1 Pole, True 6kA B Curve & C Curve MCBs • Compact Type A 1 Pole + Neutral True 6kA B Curve & C Curve 30mA RCBOs • A single way Din Rail Blank module. Scolmore, scolmore.com
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I
t has been just three months since the launch, and the feedback from contractors and wholesalers has been phenomenal, with orders far exceeding original expectations. With further orders placed and the ability to hold high levels of stock, the company has been able to comfortably manage the demand. Scolmore has also updated its Elucian brochure to include a section on accessories which have been added to the range and can be ordered separately. Included are SPD tail packs, din rails, terminal bars, busbars and link cables.
by Click®
Consumer Units Elucian by Click® brings to the market a comprehensive Consumer Unit and Circuit Protection range. It covers a broad range of installations and offers a number of features and benefits that will enhance the products’ convenience, flexibility and safety properties.
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SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY
COMPANY SHOWCASE
IDEAL INDUSTRIES INTRODUCES ITS GEN II LEVER WIRE CONNECTORS IDEAL Industries has introduced the new Gen II lever wire connectors. Ideal for a quick, simple, and safe wire termination installation with a high level of power consumption up to 32A, they provide a versatile solution suitable for joining solid, stranded or flexible conductors and are available in two-, three- and five-port models. Offering a faster, easier, and more cost-effective alternative to terminal blocks, the Gen II Lever Wire Connector Range secures cables in place in seconds, with no need for a screwdriver or crimping, just a simple strip, push, connect action. All models can be used with solid or rigid stranded cables of
between 0.2mm2 and 4.0mm2, while the units are suitable for use with flexible cable from 0.14mm2 to 4.00mm2. Each connector features a built-in wire strip guide to enable installers to check the correct stripping length and, for solid and stranded cables, once the wire has been stripped, it can simply be pushed in with no need to lift the lever. For flexible wires, the lever is lifted before inserting the conductor and clamping it into place. The levers have been designed to open in the opposite direction to the insertion port, locking the cables into position to prevent any accidental loosening or pull-out, ensuring a safe and secure connection throughout the lifecycle of the installation. The clear casing enables easy inspection and there is a check port for testing, enabling full safety and consistency verification at the point of installation. The compact design enables easier fitting in junction boxes and enclosures, where space is often limited. This can be particularly useful in lighting and access control installations, where multiple conductors often need to come together in a tight space, however, this innovative product has been designed for any application up to 32amp, including radial and final ring circuits. Ideal Industries, idealind.com
KNIGHTSBRIDGE MAKES SECURITY LIGHTING COOL
NEW STYLISH MERIDIAN CAMBRIDGE BATTENS The latest addition to Meridian LED Lighting is a new, modern and stylish range of 5ft Cambridge Battens. Available as Standard; with Microwave Sensor or as an Emergency Fitting, the range is fitted with integrated LEDs and comprises 27w and 47w options (25w and 45w for EM3). Installer friendly benefits include: hinged covers for easy access and maintenance, plus both end and side cable entry options. Fitted with low flicker Tridonic drivers for long term reliability, these battens have an average energy saving lifespan of 50,000 hours. With a cool white colour temperature of 4000k and a 110° beam angle, high lumen outputs of 3500lm or 6500lm are consistently delivered. Quality is assured with CE and UK/CA approvals whilst also being backed with five-year guarantees across the range. IP20 rated for indoor use only, these Cambridge Battens are suitable for classrooms, offices, hotels and more. CED Electrical, cedelectrical.co.uk
Knightsbridge is expanding its range of outdoor lighting with the introduction of a new series of LED floodlights. The FLN range, which is manufactured in black die-cast aluminium, combines slim looks, optimal lighting performance and versatility when partnered with either microwave or PIR sensor accessories. These additional accessories are easy to attach, providing convenience not just to installers, but also to electrical wholesalers. Starting at 1084 lumens and producing up to 5430 lumens (with the FLN50 model), the range delivers effective, cool white, security lighting from a discrete package. As with all Knightsbridge products, the floodlights have been designed with installers in mind, featuring easy-fix brackets for wall mounting and internal terminal blocks to allow quick and easy direct wiring. Whatever the outdoor application, whether it’s transforming terraces or patios, illuminating garden pathways and features, or installing outdoor security lighting. Knightsbridge has a product that can do it beautifully.
by Click®
Protective Devices Our Elucian range of Protective Devices are easy to install, suitable for residential and light commercial environments, they provide protection against earth faults to ensure people’s safety against electrocution and fires.
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Knightsbridge, mlaccessories.co.uk
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COMPANY SHOWCASE
SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY
NEW ADDITIONS TO THE CLICK PART M WIRING ACCESSORIES RANGE
PUTTING SERVICE FIRST WITH MAKITA UK
Scolmore continues to invest in new products and improvements to its extensive range of wiring accessories and has just announced new additions to its Part M range. The range of visually contrasting accessories that comply with current building regulations Part M, now includes GridPro Frontplates and a Shaver Socket. GridPro is a comprehensive range of frontplates and modules designed to offer installers flexibility. The new 6-24 gang, anthracite grey Part M GridPro additions have been developed as a high-quality, flexible and modern solution to assisted living wiring requirements. The 115/230V dual voltage shaver socket is intended for use in bathroom areas, with the colour contrasting frontplate designed to aid visibility. A brochure with details of the full range of Part M visually contrasting products and solutions is available to view on the Scolmore Group website and can also be downloaded from the Scolmore Group app.
Makita UK has relocated its Milton Keynes Factory Service Centre site to a new location to house regional servicing activity. The new 20,000-sqft premises in Blakelands will enable Makita to bolster its customer repair and service support commitments. Products covered under the company’s warranty agreement can be posted or dropped off at each FSC for Makita’s technical experts and engineers to perform product servicing, detailed diagnostics and high standards of repair work when needed. The new premises in Blakelands will also be used to host Makita UK accredited service training, as well as Authorised Service Agents (ASA) workshops and seminars. Furthermore, Makita will use the new site to host apprenticeship training sessions focusing on the electrical and mechanical service requirements of Makita tools.
Scolmore, scolmore.com
Makita, makitauk.com
18TH EDITION COMPLIANT CABLE CLIPS FROM UNICRIMP Unicrimp has continued to expand its cable accessories portfolio with new additions to its range of cable clips. The new fire-rated Metal Twin and Earth Cable Clips are 18th Edition compliant and will sit within the growing Unicrimp Q-Fire fire-rated range. The 18th Edition wiring regulations stipulate that cable support systems must be constructed with materials that will withstand premature collapse caused by direct exposure to heat. There are no applications excluded – trunking, conduit and cabling fixed to surfaces of the building or attached to cable support systems must all have fire-resistant supports in place. These new additions provide installers with an expanded choice of fixing solutions, suitable across a range of applications and environments – helping them to satisfy the latest wiring regulations.
GREATER LIGHTING CHOICE LOOMS LARGE WITH NEW LED DOWNLIGHT FROM KNIGHTSBRIDGE LED lighting applications and installations are set to be transformed with the launch of a new downlight from Knightsbridge. The new SpektroLED downlight can be configured to offer 40 variants from the one product thanks to its selectable wattages and CCTs and choices of bezel. Depending on the required illumination, either 5W or 8W can be pre-selected via a switch on the rear of the lamp body. Once chosen, there are four CCTs available – 2700K, 3000K, 4000K and 6000K – the desired colour temperature selected by a sliding switch also on the rear of the lamp body. Installation is both quick and simple. Each unit features first and second fix power connectors with loop in/loop out terminals that can be terminated while other works are finished. Then the downlight can be plugged in to complete the installation after decoration. The connectors also allow the luminaire to be removed for maintenance or even re-programming by simply unplugging them. Knightsbridge, mlaccessories.co.uk
scolmore.com
Unicrimp, unicrimp.com
by Click®
Consumer Units Elucian by Click® brings to the market a comprehensive Consumer Unit and Circuit Protection range. It covers a broad range of installations and offers a number of features and benefits that will enhance the products’ convenience, flexibility and safety properties.
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SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY
MEGAMAN LAUNCHES TEGO 2 INTEGRATED DOWNLIGHT
COMPANY SHOWCASE
VENT-AXIA’S SVARA NOW AVAILABLE IN ON-TREND BLACK
Megaman has launched its TEGO 2 integrated LED downlight, ideal for commercial and domestic applications. The system features the option to easily change both the beam angle of the fixture and the colour temperature. With Megaman’s cutting edge Dual Beam Technology, the TEGO 2 has two beam angles – 60° and 36°- available in one fitting. By simply pressing the lens, the beam angle can be changed easily by both the installer and end user. Dual CCT 2800K and 4000K can also be activated by twisting the lens once installed. With a lumen output of 650lm at 7.5W, the TEGO 2 integrated downlight is also dimmable and rated IP65, making it ideal for environments with higher moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens. The downlights are also tested to provide fire protection for 30, 60 and 90-minute ceiling constructions. The LED system includes up to 50,000 hours usage and a tool-free wiring install with a loop in/loop out function.
Vent-Axia has launched its Lo-Carbon Svara fan in black, making it the ideal ventilation solution for this year’s on-trend kitchens and bathrooms. Designed to let households take control of the air they breathe, the Svara is a multipurpose bathroom fan that offers a modern design combined with quiet running. Meanwhile, electricians will be pleased to know that the Svara makes installation simple through a smart phone app. Installers are easily able to select whether to opt for intermittent or continuous ventilation and whether the humidistat triggers operation or not. Improving a home’s indoor air quality, the Svara extracts pollutants to create a healthy indoor environment and helps prevent mould. Marking the next generation of unitary fans, Svara’s innovative app allows households to control their ventilation from the comfort of their sofa, unlocking a whole range of different functions to control their home’s IAQ. Vent-Axia, vent-axia.com
Megaman, megamanuk.com
ROUND TWO FOR ESP’S REKORHD CCTV REVAMP
NEW AND IMPROVED INCEPTOR OMNI DOWNLIGHT FROM OVIA
It has been three months since ESP relaunched its RekorHD 2MP CCTV range. Now the company is ready to unveil the second phase of the product development programme, which sees RekorHD expanded into a comprehensive analogue CCTV range. The Rekor HD range offers an increased number of cameras. There is now a wider choice of camera lenses for different focal requirements, infrared coverage for nighttime visibility and options for either a bullet or dome camera style. All cameras are housed in IP-rated contemporary housings suitable for external use. In addition to the existing four channel RekorHD kit, a new eight channel kit will be introduced. The kits contain DVR, cameras, hard drive and camera cable. To increase flexibility in the range, the DVRs will be made available separately alongside a 16 channel DVR option to cater for larger scale applications. All DVRs will incorporate a range of hard drive capacity options.
Ovia has taken its Inceptor Omni fire-rated, tri-colour, dimmable downlight and made a number of improvements to enhance its performance. Retaining all the qualities of the original version, the new Omni V2 now boasts a recess depth of just 53mm, thanks to the Flow integrated driver, which means there is no need for an insulation bracket. Omni V2 is supplied with push-fit Flow connectors which feature push-in, low maintenance terminals to offer another time-saving benefit for installers. With the driver now incorporated into the Flow connector, this means that insulation can be laid over the fitting. Among other key features is a CTA switch – a built-in, three position switch which allows for instant change of the colour temperature. The lumen output has been increased, up from 500lm on the original version, to 600lm for Omni V2 and it now offers an improved 60° beam angle with all colour temperature selections.
ESP, espuk.com
by Click®
Protective Devices Our Elucian range of Protective Devices are easy to install, suitable for residential and light commercial environments, they provide protection against earth faults to ensure people’s safety against electrocution and fires.
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Ovia, oviauk.com
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COMPANY SHOWCASE
SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY
VENT-AXIA LAUNCHES LO-CARBON HEAT SAVE Vent-Axia has launched the Vent-Axia Lo-Carbon Heat Save, designed to offer either single room or whole house heat recovery ventilation solution for homes. This makes it ideal for retrofitting, providing extract and supply ventilation to improve indoor air quality and supply air to rooms as part of a modular system. Achieving up to 84% heat recovery, the Heat Save uses the warmth from outgoing air to heat incoming air to avoid heat loss and to reduce energy bills. The Vent-Axia Lo-Carbon Heat Save is designed as a decentralised heat recovery ventilation system for homes, using two or more fans in habitable rooms. The unit uses a reversible fan that alternates between supply and extract fan modes every 70 seconds to extract dirty air from the room and replace it with outside air that has been passed through a filter to ensure that clean air enters the room. Ideal for using in pairs, as one unit is extracting, the other is supplying fresh air to provide a single room or whole house balanced ventilation system with heat recovery. Vent-Axia, vent-axia.com
ANSELL’S VERSATILE LED BULKHEADS LIGHT UP AMENITY MARKET Ideal for illuminating both indoor and outdoor spaces, Ansell Lighting’s Astro and Delta LED bulkheads are versatile luminaires suitable for a multitude of settings. The Astro and Delta LED’s deliver increased performance thanks to a unique Visiluxe diffuser which transmits 90% of the light emitted from the LED source. They are also low maintenance, offering an LED lifespan of L70 56,000 hours and come with a five-year warranty for added peace of mind. They are available in 7w and 14w outputs, with electronic photocell and corridor function options available for both. Emergency and integral microwave sensor options are also available with the 14w model. Fitted with an internal CCT selector switch, the luminairs can be easily set to any colour temperature between 3000K and 4000K, giving the option of a cool or warm white glow. It is also quick and easy to install thanks to push fit feed-in, feed-out terminals. Ansell, anselluk.com
Upgraded, innovative and sustainable – Snickers Workwear ‘Climate Control’ clothing delivers exceptional comfort and performance. There’s a range of garments that use socially and environmentally responsible fibre technology such as 100% recycled polyester, as well as others available in high-tech breathable fabrics. For consistent comfort, the seamless designs are also available in 37.5 ventilating technology for efficient body moisture transport as well as odour-reducing merino wool to suit different types of work, whatever the weather conditions. These cutting-edge AllroundWork, FLEXIWork and LITEwork designs, and fabrics will keep you cool, warm and dry when you need to be. All the garments are made from quick drying, lightweight fabrics that come with special ventilation features to control and regulate the heat from your body. All in all, Snickers Workwear Baselayer clothing will give you the kind of fresh working comfort you wouldn’t have thought possible. Snickers, snickersworkwear.co.uk
MAKITA INTRODUCES NEW 12VMAX CXT MULTI-LINE LASERS TO ITS RANGE Makita has added two 12Vmax CXT multi-line lasers to its range of site equipment. The multi-line lasers project one horizontal and two vertical 360° lines and include a precise self-levelling feature to enable simple setup, layout and alignment. The 12Vmax CXT Red Multi-Line Laser (SK700DZ) and 12Vmax CXT Green Multi-Line Laser (SK700GDZ) are versatile with a range of features to make work on site simple. The Red Multi-Line Laser has a range of 25m in each direction (50m diameter) while the green lasers of the SK700GDZ provide an increased range of 35m (70m diameter) and better line visibility in brighter conditions. Each vertical and horizontal laser emitter on the tool projects four lines to create up to three 360-degree laser lines. It also includes brightness settings for optimum visibility depending on the environment. Makita, makitauk.com
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SNICKERS WORKWEAR WILL GIVE YOUR WORKDAY WORKING CLOTHES A GOOD FOUNDATION
by Click®
Consumer Units Elucian by Click® brings to the market a comprehensive Consumer Unit and Circuit Protection range. It covers a broad range of installations and offers a number of features and benefits that will enhance the products’ convenience, flexibility and safety properties.
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Black Trunking
Including Maxi and Mini Solutions & Fittings All Available from Stock, For Next Day FREE Delivery
We have opened a new office and trade counter in Farnborough Unit 4 Royston Centre, Lynchford Road, GU12 5PQ Tel: 01252 917300
Drop by and visit us today!
Bedford Offices, Unit 5 & 6 Arkwright Industrial Estate, Arkwright Road, Bedford, MK42 0LQ Tel: +44 (0)1234 848030
www.cmwltd.co.uk
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Email: sales@cmwltd.co.uk
26/07/2021 09:27
BEING A SPARKY IS ALL ABOUT THE NUMBERS To do work that’s safe, reliable and compliant, you need a bit of a head for figures. Here are a couple for you: the new Generation II Lever Wire Connector handles both 32 AMP and 4mm. You can do more, more quickly, in even the most awkward of spaces. It all adds up.
idealind.com
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