Electrical Issue 49 by Karen McAvoy Publishing

EE Y FR OP C

ISSUE 49 - MAY/JUNE 2015

Setting a new bar for price and performance

AVAILABLE FROM AUTHORISED CREE DISTRIBUTORS

C R O S S G R O U P - T: 0 2 8 3 7 5 2 6 0 9 0 ( N I & U K ) - 0 4 8 3 7 5 2 6 0 9 0 ( R O I ) - w w w. c r o s s - g r o u p . o r g

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

contents

NORTH WEST

Electrical trade event Thurs 11 JUNE 2015 - 3.00pm - 9.00pm EVERGLADES HOTEL DERRY/LONDONDERRY

SEE PAGES 45-63 hosted by

leading suppliers of electrical products on show, including new exciting brands never seen before THE TEAM

Karen McAvoy

Adam Hassin

Managing Director Publication Manager Editor Editorial ROI Correspondant Head Designer Designer Accounts Business Support Photography Printed by

Janice Uprichard

Karen McAvoy Janice Uprichard Adam Hassin Diane Day Denise Maguire Julie Anne Guiney Jo Wilson Michelle Owens Gemma Sheppard Gordon McAvoy W&G Baird

CONTACT US The Forge, 13b Lisburn Road, Moira BT67 0JR Moira: 028 9261 2990 Dublin: 01 696 8319 e electrical@kmpltd.co.uk w www.elecmagazine.com Publishers of: • Plumbing & Heating Magazine • Electrical Magazine • Northern Builder • Yearbooks • Diaries Reproduction of whole or in part of this publication, without prior permission from Karen McAvoy Publishing Ltd, is strictly prohibited.

www.elecmagazine.com

Contents... NEWS & VIEWS Henry Clark retires GES hosts successful Open Day ECA’s annual dinner Review of Belfast Trade Event

10 14 16-17 104-107

features Lighting 24-41 Mac Electrics’ 30th anniversary 71-77 Training 82-89 CEW Newry marks 10 years of success 91-95 Cables and cable management 99-101

Jobs pageS 102-103

IN FOCUS The rise of data centres 13 North-South Interconnector 19 New look for Eastern Electrical Dundalk 20-21 EcoVolt case study 23 Irwin Electrical at Mount Stewart 42-43 Hamilton Litestat on tour in Ireland 67 CEF launches new website 80-81

Electrical Magazine is published on a bi-monthly basis and distributed throughout Northern Ireland and the A TRADE MAGAZINE FOR NORTHERN IRELAND & REPUBLIC OF IRELAND

Republic of Ireland on a controlled circulation.

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 3

news

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Major increase in grants to householders for energy efficiency

Pictured at the launch of the Sustainable Building Guide are (from left) Paul McCormack, Chair of Smart Eco Hub, Councillor Guy Spence, Deputy Lord Mayor Belfast City Council, Joan Martin, Chief Executive, Louth County Council, Councillor Oliver Tully, Chairman Louth County Council and Environment Minister Mark H Durkan.

New building guide inspires fresh approach to planning and building Cross border organisation, Smart Eco Hub has produced the ‘Sustainable Building Guide’ to assist and educate those in the construction industry to better deliver sustainable buildings. Speaking at the launch of the guide, Northern Ireland Environment Minister Mark H Durkan said, “I very much support the use of sustainable renewable technologies in new buildings. We have geared planning policy to help integrate renewable energy technology into the design, siting and layout of existing and new buildings. “This guide demonstrates another good example of the benefits

of collaboration between local authorities and the private sector. It has produced a practical document that can be applied in the planning and adaption of buildings in the North and South. “It is important that we continue to work together and share our experiences, as well as exchange ideas that will support our wider understanding of issues that affect our environment.” This guide will be extremely beneficial to both public and private representatives. To obtain your copy of the guide, e-mail info@ smartecohub.com

A boost in the level of grants available to householders in the Republic of Ireland who want to undertake energy efficiency improvements should provide a welcome increase in work opportunities for electrical installers. The cash value of every grant available to householders under the Better Energy Homes Scheme has been increased by between 25-50%. In addition, a bonus payment has been introduced which will see householders receive bonus payments if they complete three or more energy efficiency improvements. The scheme applies to measures such as insulating walls or attics and installing new heating systems and is administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) on behalf of the Government. W: www.seai.ie

Announcing an increase in grant levels under the Better Energy Homes scheme are Energy Minister, Alex White (left), and Brian Motherway, SEAI, along with home-owners Helen and Des Fox from Ballinteer, who recently had their house insulated.

New ductwork system wins top ‘Innovative’ award PanelDuct, a manufacturer of high quality pre-insulated flat pack duct panels, scooped the ‘Innovation of the Year’ accolade at the recently held Irish Times InterTradeIreland Innovation Awards. The steel faced pre-insulated duct system is being hailed as the first of its kind in the ventilation industry, differing from the expensive traditional galvanised metal ductwork that’s manually fabricated in a workshop and shipped to site. This conventional ductwork is then installed in bulk format before being wrapped with insulation and externally cladded for protection, resulting in three separate and costly operations. PanelDuct is different; it’s pre-insulated in an automated process before being supplied in modular flat panel format to minimise transport costs. It is then installed in just one operation as the panels click together onsite. Air-tightness is also assured due to integral compression seals. As overall

TRAINING WORKS

winner, PanelDuct will receive a communications and advertising package from The Irish Times worth €150,000 along with a UCD Smurfit Business School scholarship for an Executive Education programme commencing in 2016 and a state-of-the-art-laptop.

Ballymena: Units 57-59, Ballymena Business Centre, 62 Fenaghy Road, Ballymena, Armagh: Armagh Business Centre, 2 Loughgall Road, Armagh T: 028 2565 0750 – F: 028 2563 0725 – E: enquiries@ett-ni.org www.ett-ni.org

• APPRENTICE • ELECTRICAL • BUSINESS • HEALTH & SAFETY

4 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

News

Launching the SEC Group Northern Ireland report are (from left) Patsy McGlone MLA, Chairman of the All-Party Group on Construction, Rudi Klein, SEC Chairman and Alfie Watterson, SEC Group Northern Ireland.

SEC Group lifts lid on poor public procurement practices

ew research carried out by the Specialist Engineering Contractors’ (SEC) Group Northern Ireland has painted a worrying picture about the state of public sector construction procurement in Northern Ireland. The survey involved almost every public body in Northern Ireland, including local councils, education boards and NHS trusts. Whilst all public bodies in Northern Ireland claim to pay their tier 1 contractors within 30 days, there is a lack of clarity as to when the 30 days starts from. There is evidence suggesting that the 30 days commences from the date when payments were authorised, with one firm in Northern Ireland having to wait 252 days for payment for payment to be authorised. Just over 50% of public bodies surveyed do not have measures in place to track payment performance in the supply chain – and 85% hold monies back from payments (known as retentions). Almost 75% of public bodies admit to using cash raised by retentions to supplement their working capital or as an investment pot. Approximately £60million is being withheld

TRAINING WORKS

www.elecmagazine.com

by the public sector in Northern Ireland from – for the most part – small firms. There is still a long way to go to standardising the pre-qualification process in Northern Ireland. Only two local authorities are exclusively using the standard questionnaire published by the Construction Procurement Directorate and 72% of Northern Ireland public bodies do not seek to break large contracts into smaller lots to encourage SME access to procurement opportunities. Patsy McGlone, Assembly All Party Construction Group Chairman said, “The public sector should be setting an example by establishing high benchmarks for best practice and ensuring that small firms in the supply chain are treated fairly. Unfortunately – as SEC Group’s survey shows – it is perpetuating the industry’s poor culture when it comes to procurement and payment.” In light of the findings of this extensive research SEC Group Northern Ireland has developed a six point action plan to improve payment and pre-qualification practice:

SEC GROUP PRAISE FOR SPARKSAFE PAGES 86-87

1. All payments under public sector construction contracts should be made within 30 days of the end of the month in which the relevant work was carried out. 2. Any organisation failing to pay its supply chain within 30 days should be excluded from public sector work for a minimum of 12 months. 3. Legislation should be introduced to require all cash retentions to be placed in trust (in a segregated account) for the benefit of the firms providing the monies. 4. Targets should be set for the introduction of project bank accounts (PBAs) across the whole of the public sector so that the supply chain is paid directly by the public body. 5. The pre-qualification process should be standardised across the public sector and up and down the supply chain. 6. An office of Public Procurement Ombudsman/Regulator should be created to monitor and police poor practice. T: Alfie Waterston, ECA on (NI) 028 9147 9527 E: Alfie.Watterson@eca.co.uk W: www.secgroup.org.uk

• APPRENTICE • ELECTRICAL • BUSINESS • HEALTH & SAFETY

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 5

WHO WE ARE

IES’ methods of deployment made every project very straightforward.

“

Stuart Kirk,

WHAT WE DO

IES Compliance will ensure conformity with local Environmental Health & Safety Legislation as well as the statutory compliance of all assets within a client’s building that relate to electrical and pressure systems, fire safety (including fire detection and suppression systems), lifting equipment (including lifts and escalators), gas systems, F gas and water quality management.

head of energy and carbon. Morrisons PLC

WHO WE ARE

IES Fire & Security offer a full-service solution, providing our customers with access to the highest quality products available on the market, and the means to install them.

WHAT WE DO

“

IES Compliance provides robust management of the statutory and regulatory compliance requirements for your premises, utilising game-changing integrated application technology that brings down operational costs by over 20%.

IES are an extension of our business.

IES Fire & Security Services include: Access Control, Building Management Systems, CCTV Installation, Intruder Alarm Systems, Fire Detection & Alarm Systems, Emergency Lighting Service, Maintenance, Testing, Inspection and Repairs and a Fire Extinguisher Service. Using established relationships with experts in the field, we can cover all mandatory requirements with a solution that is energy efficient and cost-effective.

Paul Goodall,

retail & hospitality director, Philips

For further details contact us: GENERAL ENQUIRIES: 028 9024 7528 NEW BUSINESS: 0800 2545020 EMAIL: info@i-e-s-ltd.com

www.ies-ltd.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

BI Electrical makes it to top 10 list County Antrim-based BI Electrical Services has made its debut in the latest Sunday Times BDO Profit Track 100 league table, which ranks the UK’s private companies with the fastest-growing profits over the last three years. BI Electrical Services grew profits an average of 60% a year to £3.9million in 2013 and has expanded to provide electrical engineering services in China and Saudi Arabia. It was amongst only three Northern Ireland companies to make it onto this year’s list. T: (NI) 028 90 342478 or (RoI) 048 90 342478 E: info@bielectrical.com W: www.bielectrical.com

Kevin McCarthy, Kingspan (left) receives an Action Renewables Association Award from Colm Kennedy, of sponsor, Vayu.

Kingspan a top 10 renewables winner Kingspan, Portadown has been awarded a top 10 green business award in the category ‘Most Successful Renewable Electricity Installation’ at this year’s Action Renewables Association Awards, Ireland. Presented during a gala luncheon at the Belfast Harbour Commissioner’s Office, the awards recognise outstanding renewables practice in Northern Ireland. T: (NI) 028 3836 4500 or (RoI) 048 3836 4500 W: www.kingspanenv.com

TRAINING WORKS

www.elecmagazine.com

news

Installers flock to join E-PRO approved scheme

Marshall-Tufflex’s ground-breaking E-PRO approved accreditation scheme for installers of energy management systems has temporarily closed to new applicants following exceptionally high demand for places. E-PRO is the UK’s first accreditation for electrical contractors working within the energy management sector. It is open to members of NICEIC, ECA, SELECT or NAPIT. Installers who successfully apply must attend a training course covering voltage optimisation, power factor correction, boiler management and sub-metering. The scheme also includes the supply chain, with preferred stockists being appointed UK-wide to partner with E-PRO approved installers, allowing both to take advantage of improved terms and a close working relationship with Marshall-Tufflex. W: www. eproapproved.co.uk

SMEs unaware of support available The Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation recently launched the second phase of its awareness campaign to inform SMEs of the supports available to assist them in starting or developing their business. More than 80 business support systems are in place totalling more than €2billion, however a recent survey found a significant lack of awareness about these Government supports among Irish SMEs. The second phase will run advertising on national and local radio advertisements and through an online advertisement campaign. The new website (www.actionplanforjobs.ie) also contains links to the Government’s action plan for jobs policy, as well as a ‘Supporting SMEs’ online tool which will narrow down available supports based on a short questionnaire. The SME sector in Ireland is a major employer, accounting for close to 70% of employment. According to the Department, traffic to the SME online support tool site increased by over 100% at the end of phase one.

Campaign aims to reduce suicides among construction workers A new study has found that over 50% of men who commit suicide in Ireland work in the construction industry. The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) highlighted the figures as part of the ‘Mind Our Workers’ campaign, launched recently in collaboration with suicide prevention charity Pieta House. The report stated that out of a total of 2,137 male suicides over a four year period, 1,039 of them were from a construction or production background. The campaign aims to encourage more communication about suicide and mental health on construction sites and among construction workers around the country. Commenting on the study, CIF President Michael Stone, said, “We want to see a working environment whereby it is acceptable for men to ask their friends and colleagues, ‘Are you ok?’ Men in any walk of life should be able to talk about their problems. We need to take these matters out of the shadows and bring them into the light.”

• APPRENTICE • ELECTRICAL • BUSINESS • HEALTH & SAFETY

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 7

news

Apple to fund green energy projects to power €850million Athenry data centre In more good news from the tech giant, Apple is considering directly funding at least six Irish renewable energy projects to power its planned €850million new data centre in Athenry. The move could result in total new investment of more than €400million. The company has invited partnership proposals from green energy developers to set up multiple new projects, with each having a power generation capacity of up to 50MW. The Athenry data centre will require capacity estimated at more than 300MW for services such as iTunes, Maps and Siri. Although Apple hasn’t specified the type of renewable energy it would favour, it’s widely expected that onshore wind is a likely contender. According to a tender on Ariba.com, Apple is “most interested” in agreements with developers to purchase electricity and also indicated it “would consider purchasing in their entirety such assets” once they come onstream. Apple only wants projects within the Republic of Ireland that must be ready in 2017 or 2018. Projects in proximity to Athenry will have an advantage.

Stakeholders urged to have their say on electricity market reform Stakeholders are being urged to make their views known on a new ‘Contracts for Difference’ (CFD) scheme to reduce the cost of supporting renewable and low carbon electricity deployment. The Department of Energy and Climate Change has published a Call for Evidence on how the CFD scheme could work in Northern Ireland. Enterprise Minister, Arlene Foster said, “The CFD scheme raises difficult questions for Northern Ireland in terms of cost to electricity consumers, our ability to operate devolved energy policy, the further contribution we should make to renewable targets and the economic impact of renewables. “We have been very successful in achieving the Executive’s 2015 Programme for Government target of 20% renewable energy generation. It is a tribute to the renewables sector that it has risen to the challenge of delivering green energy to meet a significant portion of our needs. Nonetheless, looking to the future I have to be mindful of affordability to consumers. This is why I’m seeking the views of stakeholders.”

TRAINING WORKS

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Smart energy conference The BSRIA is hosting another successful conference in Dublin to discuss the latest developments in Smart Cities and Smart Energy. There is much talk about ‘Smart’ everything and this event intends to bring together the strands of new energy distribution and generation and its control in cities. Speakers will discuss the new technology available, the opportunities and pitfalls of the new ‘Smart’ systems and examples of where these systems are already being installed and used to the advantage of both the supplier and customer. Places are free and you can book your place now at https://www. bsria.co.uk/information-membership/events/details/smart-citiessmart-energy/ or e-mail Kathie.bull@bsria.co.uk

FIA’s new website focuses on delivering content The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has re-launched its website with a brand new look and a number of features aimed at delivering relevant content in an easy-to-find manner. New features include improved navigation and a clearer website structure, cleaner, sleeker and modern look. It is also mobile and tablet friendly and features personalised content for FIA members, according to their areas of interest. W: www.fia.uk.com

Kellihers Electrical brings pioneering technology to Ireland Irish electrical wholesaler, Kellihers Electrical (part of Rexel Energy Solutions), has secured the exclusive trade distribution rights in Ireland for the pioneering Nest Learning Thermostat and Nest Protect: Smoke + Carbon Monoxide Alarm. Brought to the Irish market for the first time, both Nest products will be available in all Kellihers Electrical branches, as well as its Fitzpatricks Electrical and CT Electric outlets. Nest offers free online training to help installers understand how to install and sell the products to their customers. Once registered the installer is eligible for exclusive benefits including bulk-buy prices, qualified local customer leads, expert marketing and sales help, premium marketing materials and VIP live support. T: Kellihers Electrical on (RoI) 066 714 5300 or (NI) 00353 66 714 5300 W: pro.nest.com Ballymena: Units 57-59, Ballymena Business Centre, 62 Fenaghy Road, Ballymena, Armagh: Armagh Business Centre, 2 Loughgall Road, Armagh T: 028 2565 0750 – F: 028 2563 0725 – E: enquiries@ett-ni.org www.ett-ni.org

• APPRENTICE • ELECTRICAL • BUSINESS • HEALTH & SAFETY

8 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

www.elecmagazine.com

news

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Walsall veteran and well-known face in the industry looks back over four decades in electrical wholesale…

Henry retires after 40 years in the business

ne of the electrical wholesale industry’s best known faces in Northern Ireland has retired after 40 years. Henry Clark, best known for his role as Branch Manager of Walsall in Portadown, is now looking forward to taking life at an easier pace after four decades with the company. “I am certainly going to miss it but at the same time I have made an awful lot of friends in the industry, so I’m sure I’ll stay in touch with them all and keep up-to-date with what’s happening,” he said. Henry started work with Northern Ireland Electrical Industries (which later became Walsall) in April 1975 and retired in April, 2015. His first role with the company was as a store manager at Walsall’s former premises at Seagoe Industrial Estate in Portadown, and he worked his way through the ranks before taking over the Branch Manager position from Herbie Marshall in 1982. He also oversaw the move to purpose-built premises at Mahon Industrial Estate in 1989, where Walsall remains to this day. “We covered out as far as Enniskillen in those days, so it we were well placed on that side of the town to service the West of the province and also make the most of passing trade. It proved a good move.” Henry states that the takeover by Edmundson Electrical was the biggest change he faced as Branch Manager. “They were a breath of fresh air,” he explained. “They were a very professional, modern company and that blended well with what we were trying to do. They took us to a whole new level. Edmundson Electrical has retained that forward-thinking attitude and continues to innovate, which is great for the future of Walsall and the industry as a whole in Northern Ireland.” While the effectiveness of Edmundson Electrical has been integral to the success of the company, Henry firmly believes it is the people who make the real difference. “I feel privileged to have worked with some great people over the years, many of whom are still with the company,” he said. “I

10 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

Henry Clark, who has retired after 40 years with Walsall, Portadown. Below - Henry receiving some presentations at a special dinner to mark his retirement.

brought such people as Andy Newell, John Clarke and David McCullough, to name just a few, and we had a great team of people all working well together. “It was fitting when Andy replaced me as Branch Manager a few years ago and it’s great to see the next generation in Chris McConville taking over.” He added, “I also made many friends over the years with our customers and, in some cases, I have worked with three generations of the same family. I enjoyed building those relationships but also working with them to find solutions to some difficult challenges. I always enjoyed being put to the test.” Looking ahead, Henry is confident that Walsall will continue to meet customer needs in much the same as it did when he was in charge – although he will happily watch from afar.

“I plan to just relax,” he said. “I enjoy a bit of photography and will continue that, but to be honest I have no major plans for my retirement.” That will be a big change from working in the fast-paced electrical wholesale industry. “Customers don’t keep their own stores or a big stock like they used to, so there’s a lot of pressure on wholesalers. They will put an order in and want that delivered as quickly as possible. “I remember when we got our first fax machine and thinking how easy that would make life, but now we have e-mail and websites that mean everything is even more instant. Nevertheless, you can use that same technology to your advantage too, and I’m sure Edmundson’s Walsall will remain on top.”

www.elecmagazine.com

important notice... DEADLINE

FOR ALL AWARD ENTRIES... MON 8 JUNE 2015

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Log on to www.elecmagazine.com or Tel: 028 9261 2990 for Category details

electrical magazine

12 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

data centres

The explosion of data centres in Ireland could mean big business for cleaner, more sustainable forms of electricity generation

Powering the future W e might be lamenting our gloomy, miserable summer but the large tech companies choosing Ireland as the perfect location for their data centres certainly aren’t. Over the past few years, Ireland has seen a massive hike in data centre development. In 2009, Microsoft developed a centre at Grange Castle near Clondalkin which was recently expanded to a huge 500,000sqft facility. In 2011, Amazon followed with a 240,000sqft centre in Walkinstown and just a year after that, Google redeveloped a warehouse in west Dublin into their third energy-efficient data centre in Europe. Last year the tech giant announced plans to build a second data centre, also in Dublin. The news that Apple is planning to build an €850million data centre in Athenry, Co Galway, is further proof that Ireland is an extremely attractive place for tech companies to lay down roots. With the era of cloud computing only upon us now, establishing Ireland as a leader at this early stage can only be good news. Although our country’s weather is often cited as the reason for Ireland’s status as a preferred location for data centres, that notion has been disparaged by some experts who point out that most of Northern Europe has the same climate when it comes to computer cooling. Despite this some companies still say otherwise; the Microsoft centre in Grange Castle was one of the first in the world to rely completely on ‘freecooling’, with units on the building’s roof

www.elecmagazine.com

directing cool air through the centre, leading to greater energy efficiency. Where the weather does play a part though, is in how these data centres are powered. As huge consumers of electrical power, the availability of renewable energy in Ireland to power these data centres is a real advantage and, as the transition to renewables gathers pace over the next few years, the onus on data centres to become more and more efficient will increase dramatically. Apple has been quick to stress its intention to use Irish clean energy to power its data centre in Athenry and is planning on directly funding at least six Irish renewable energy projects to power the centre. Although the firm hasn’t singled out wind as the type of renewable energy it will favour, it’s expected that onshore wind will be a strong contender. Kenneth Matthews, CEO of the Irish Wind Energy Association, believes wind energy is the clear favourite. “Apple’s determination to use Irish clean energy to power its data centre in Galway demonstrates the role Irish renewable energy and especially our Irish wind energy is already playing in attracting foreign direct investment into Ireland. This presents a great opportunity for Ireland and is one which we must plan for and build upon. It underlines a desire among some of the world’s largest and most influential companies to shift to cleaner and more sustainable sources of electricity generation. Ireland is ideally placed to offer an abundant source

of clean renewable wind energy.” Although it has its opponents, it’s over 20 years since the first wind farm in Ireland was developed. According to the IWEA, wind energy contributed 27% of our national electricity demand in the last three months. Kenneth points to a recent report by international consultancy firm Pöyry that states how wind energy is fast becoming a factor in attracting high tech FDI into Ireland. “We believe that report demonstrates how Irish wind energy can play a key role in delivering a low carbon electricity system to help power the internet, secure investment and jobs and reduce electricity prices for Irish business and domestic users.” According to the study, 900MW of new demand from data centres, spread over three years, would result in a 20% increase in annual electricity consumption in Ireland between 2013 and 2020. Ireland’s reliance on energy imports means that this demand growth could impose costs on the Irish electricity system and result in increased electricity prices unless the demand is met by indigenous renewable energy sources, such as wind energy. “Meeting our EU targets and using wind energy to power extra data centre demands would result in a lowering of the wholesale electricity price which would more than offset the cost of integrating wind power onto the Irish grid,” says Kenneth. T: Irish Wind Energy Association on 00 353 45 899341 W: www.iwea.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 13

open day

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

GES GROUP LAUNCHES NEW COMPANY STRUCTURE AND VISION AT MALLUSK PREMISES OPEN DAY…

GES Group relaunches Mallusk division

ES Group has celebrated the refurbishment and extension of its Mallusk premises with an Open Day, attended by customers, key industry members and special guests. The event showcased the Group’s recent £300,000 investment in the premises, which was supported by Invest Northern Ireland, and included an extension and significant refurbishment, creating a 26,000sqft purpose-built facility. The investment also created 10 new jobs, including five apprenticeship placements on the company’s IET Approved Apprenticeship Programme. Invest NI’s CEO, Alastair Hamilton, said, “GES Group is an excellent example of a local company that is continuously pursuing new opportunities and evolving to meet changing customer demands. The recent investment, supported by Invest NI, will enable GES to seek out new customers, while the new staff will ensure the capacity to service its expanding customer base.” The company used the event to highlight its recent re-brand, which has seen its wide variety of products, services and specialisms marketed in five key areas - process automation,

“The event showcased the Group’s recent £300,000 investment in the premises.”

power and rotation, renewable power, power systems and technical sales. This new structure enables GES Group to provide a holistic in-house power and energy solution from its suite of services, ensuring high levels of quality for the customer, while also enabling GES to be competitive within the market. The company’s ‘partnership’ approach to business strengthens its position, and being an Approved Business Partner of IET demonstrates its wealth of experience, expertise and competence. The keynote speaker, Mayor of Newtownabbey, Alderman Thomas Hogg, congratulated GES Group on their success, performance and growth over the past five years. “I’d like to congratulate Tom Grant, David Moore, the management

team of GES and all of their staff for achieving real growth for the organisation, and look forward to being able to support the business with more development initiatives in the future. I wish you the best of luck going forward.” Speaking about the success of the event, Managing Director, David Moore, commented, “The Open Day was no doubt a landmark for GES - we provided customers with a guided tour of our new facility, and launched our new company structure, culture and vision. I’m excited to see the next phase of our company’s growth and development plans. There is much more to come from GES Group.” T: (NI) 028 2565 6406 or (RoI) 048 2565 6406 E: info@grantselectrical.co.uk W: www.ges-group.com

Pictured at the GES Mallusk Open Day are (from left), Tom Grant, GES Group CEO; Alastair Hamilton, Invest NI CEO; and David Moore, Managing Director GES Group.

14 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

www.elecmagazine.com

Switchgear Cabinets and Control Rooms Made to order - Temporary or Permanent Solutions

Built to last • Electricity Meter Cabinets • Telecom Network Cabinets • Telecom Secure Cabins • Secure Feeder Pillars • Transformer Secure Housing • Secure Portable Equipment Buildings • Secure UPS Control Rooms • G59 Secure Panel Stores • All Work 2 Year Warranty

General Cabins & Engineering Ltd 21-25 Corr Road, Killyman, Dungannon, BT71 6HQ. Tel: +44 (0)28 8774 7566 - Fax: +44 (0)28 8774 6866 Email: info@generalcabins.com

www.generalcabins.com - www.generalranges.com

event - eca dinner

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Entertainer, David Meade, with ECA Northern Ireland Chairman, Michael Dowds.

Scott Wilson, Shane Feeney, John Wilkins, Colin Cherry and Michael Patton, Stothers M&E.

Sponsors of the evening are (from left), Aaron Moffatt, Dunlop & Hamilton; Janice Uprichard, Electrical Magazine; Gareth Howes, Schneider; Michael Martin, Thorn Lighting; Michael Dowds, ECA Northern Ireland Chairman; James Beattie, G4S and Patrick McNamee, The Electrical Equipment Company.

ELECTRICAL Contractors ASSOCIATION Members Enjoy annual event…

Gavin McCausland, Tom Conway, John Savage and Jim Shannon from Adair Milliken.

David Meade is special guest at ECA dinner

G Conor Cannon, Brian Campbell, Jim Cray, David Black and John Holmes, Blackbourne Integrated M&E.

James Sterling, Wilton Farrley, Paul McGowan, Mark Murphy and Keith Murray.

16 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

uests at the annual Electrical Contractors Association NI Dinner enjoyed a treat this year when special guest, illusionist David Meade, had diners on the edge of their seats with his mesmerising act. A popular fixture in the organisation’s calendar, the event was held, as usual, at the Culloden Hotel, near Belfast and attracted support from members right across the province. T: Alfie Watterson (NI) 07971 141911 or (RoI) 0044 7971 141911 E: alfie.watterson@eca.co.uk

Representatives from Crown Industries with guests.

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

event - eca dinner

ECA Northern Ireland Chairman, Michael Dowds addresses the audience.

Gary Doyle and Sammy Connor, WS Mercer Ballymena with Aaron Moffatt, Dunlop & Hamilton.

Kieran Reid, Dunlop & Hamilton and John Baird, Baird Electrical, with Heather Kerr, Dunlop & Hamilton, and Ken Maginty, KMDL Engineering.

Alan Gillespie, Harvey Group, and Gavin McCausland, Caldwell Consulting.

Gareth Howes, Schneider, with Leslie Simpson, Simpson & Crawford.

Robert Abraham, G4S, Richard Gilmore and Anthony Martin, Michael Nugent Ltd.

Len Reid, Michael Nugent Ltd, with Pat McKernon, Lockley Engineering, and John McKernon.

Tom Conway, Alfie Waterson, Sean Downey and Michael Hilland.

Michael Drain, Edmundson Electrical, with Morris Cairns.

David Algie and Darryl Fulton, with Paul Hart, Crown Industries.

Sue Cooke, Tony Cooke, ECA General Manager - Regions, Pauline Basham, Andy Basham, ECA National President with Alfie Watterson.

Michael Hilland, Adair & Milliken, with John Boyd, WS Mercer.

Mark Kelly, Cleaveland Cables and Michael Dowds, ECA Chairman.

Bob Dwyer from B&ES, with Colin Lewis, WS Mercers, Portadown.

Dean Gordon, Lagan Building Contractors, with Ronnie Walker, Contract Services.

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 17

electrical magazine

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Belfast branch plays a part in success of company at Electrical Wholesaler Awards…

Kew Electrical wins Best Wholesaler title!

ew Electrical has been named as the Best Electrical Wholesaler at the Electrical Wholesaler Awards. The independent electrical wholesaler was successful in the ‘Best Electrical Wholesaler: 11-25 Branches in Group’ category at the awards night in London which attracted over 300 members of the industry. The recognition for Kew Electrical includes the company’s Belfast branch (which trades as Eds & Eds). The Belfast branch is no stranger to awards success, having also collected the ‘Best Trade Counter’ Award in the Electrical Wholesaler category at Northern Ireland’s Electrical Awards 2013.

Directors and staff from Kew Electrical celebrate being named Electrical Wholesaler of the Year at the Electrical Wholesaler Awards 2015.

CASINO

Customers enjoying the Kew Casino Night, sponsored by Scolmore.

18 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

On another night of celebration, KEW Electrical recently hosted a casino night for customers. Sponsored by Scolmore, the event saw customers try their hand at a range of casino tables, including Blackjack, Roulette and Chinese craps, topped off with food and drink to ensure a great night. T: (NI) 028 9047 1727 or (RoI) 048 9047 1727 E: Belfast@kewelectrical.co.uk W: www.kewelectrical.co.uk

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

news

The journey towards a new €280million cable line stretching from Meath to Tyrone has once again ramped up a gear as EirGrid gets ready to submit planning application…

Ireland’s energy crisis – solved by North-South Interconnector?

n April 29, following a letter from An Bord Pleanála, EirGrid, the state-owned transmission system operator, informed the general public of the indicative date for lodgement of the planning application for the North-South 400kV Interconnection Development. EirGrid intends to submit this planning application to An Bord Pleanála during the second week of June. Once this application is submitted, there will be a period of at least seven weeks statutory consultation where members of the public and other interested parties can put forward their views on the project. Original plans for the development of the €280million interconnector collapsed in June 2010 when EirGrid withdrew an application for planning permission at a hearing by An Bord Pleanála as the public notice for that application contained incorrect information about the height of pylons through Cavan and Monaghan. The proposed line for the North-South Interconnector is approximately 138km long, inclusive of approximately 34km located in Northern Ireland and stretches from Meath to Tyrone through counties Cavan and Monaghan. At the moment, one interconnector exists between the two networks and a second interconnector, EirGrid says, will increase both the capacity and the reliability of the network. In late 2013, the interconnector was designated a “project of common interest” by the European Commission. owing to the significant

www.elecmagazine.com

“While underground cables using HVDC technology would be feasible, their use on this project would introduce higher costs to the consumer.”

benefits it will have for both Ireland and Northern Ireland in terms of enhancing security of supply and providing the required flexibility for renewable generation. To allow for statutory consultation and engagement with the public, EirGrid has offices in Carrickmacross and Navan where those in the community can come to meet directly with the project team who are on hand to answer any questions. The unavoidable necessity of the North-South Interconnector is not in question; it’s EirGrid’s insistence that an underground cable line isn’t an option that has opposition groups up in arms. “Because of the length and capacity of the interconnector circuit, it’s not possible to use AC underground cables for the entire length nor, were it possible, would this technology provide an efficient and reliable option for the operation of the infrastructure into the future,” explained David Martin, spokesperson for EirGrid.

“Also, while underground cables using HVDC technology would be feasible, their use on this project would introduce higher costs to the consumer. They also wouldn’t facilitate future grid connections and reinforcements along the route; this just doesn’t comply with best utility practice.” Last year, the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) published a report that stated a North-South interconnector would remove the current bottleneck and reduce electricity costs by €30million a year. This development is expected to deliver a range of benefits to the order of€20m per annum in 2020, rising to between €40m-€60m per annum from 2030. “A new interconnector would make the areas of Monaghan, Meath and Cavan much more attractive for inward investment and foreign direct investment which would, in turn, create employment in these areas,” concluded David.

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 19

COMPANY INSIGHT – EASTERN ELECTRICAL, DUNDALK

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

The dedicated team from Eastern Electrical, Dundalk.

Refurbishment enhances the service offered by this respected electrical wholesaler as the company looks to the future with confidence…

Eastern Electrical unveils new Dundalk trade counter

astern Electrical recently celebrated the opening of the company’s new refurbished branch in Dundalk with a successful Open Day for customers. The significant investment in the branch has culminated in a modern trade counter that will further enhance the company’s already widely respected reputation for efficiency. As the market returns to a more normal footing, the move is also aimed at meeting the changing needs of the branch, as Ian Brodigan, Branch Manager, explained. “In the past, our reputation would have been as a reliable supply partner for big projects, so as a result our customer base was the larger electrical contractors,” he

said. “With our logistical expertise and diverse product range, we have a lot of experience in this area and that will continue in the future. “However, we have been working hard to also attract customers of all sizes. With our new trade counter, it was imperative that we redeveloped our own facilities to ensure we can meet their needs more effectively. “Already, the feedback from customers has been fantastic, so it proves we have made the right decision. We are looking forward to building on this in the future.” The refurbishment of the trade counter has seen the introduction of a range of new displays that showcase the versatility of the quality brands available from Eastern Electrical, Dundalk. But while this is important, a

Ian Brodigan, Branch Manager.

“Already, the feedback from customers has been fantastic.”

glittering new trade counter area is not effective if you can’t deliver the service. “Service is absolutely vital and, in the end, it is what sets you apart,” added Ian. “The changes we have made to the trade counter area were all carried out with providing better service in mind. “For example, we offer a lot more products than customers actually realise, so we have created a wide range of displays that will highlight this better. That is a great advertisement on its own. “We back this up with great service and this is an area that our team are all dedicated to. While it is important to ensure that customers get the products they need as quickly as possible and at competitive prices, we also see ourselves as playing an important role

“Service is absolutely vital and, in the end, it is what sets you apart.” 20 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

COMPANY INSIGHT – EASTERN ELECTRICAL, DUNDALK

“We have superb relationships with all the leading manufacturers.” in highlighting new innovations in the market that can make a real difference to customers. “We have superb relationships with all the leading manufacturers, and we work closely with them to inform customers about new products that will save them time or that meet new legislation. It’s as important to be informative as it is to be efficient.” This process is helped by the fact that Eastern Electrical, Dundalk, has nine staff, including Ian, and a team that enjoys a mixture of youth and experience. Three of the long-serving staff can boast a combined experience of over 80 years. This popular branch, located just off the main bypass, enjoys good access for those in Dundalk or those passing through, and in recent years

has worked closely with customers from both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. As part of EWL Electric, the Dundalk branch can link into branches across the Republic of Ireland and the UK and, as such, provide the many benefits of working with a successful multinational. However, with a decentralised philosophy, Eastern Electrical, Dundalk, enjoys the freedom of being able to work autonomously, meaning that the team can react to meet local needs. “We enjoy the best of both worlds and utilise the benefits to assist our customers in any way we can. We have a strong base already but we are looking forward to welcoming new customers to our new trade counter in future,” concluded Ian.

“Quote

Eastern Electrical, Coes Road, Dundalk, Co Louth T: (RoI) 042 933 7101 or (NI) 00353 42 933 7101 – E: Dundalk.808@easternelectrical.ie www.ewl.ie

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 21

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

ELECTRIC HEATING

JouleTherm® range of electric heaters once again proves why it is the efficient electric heating choice…

Smart choice for Donna Donaghy Skincare and Laser

coVolt is helping to keep customers warm at Donna Donaghy Skincare and Laser in Cookstown. The company was called in to offer a viable alternative to ‘wet’ heating systems that would have taken additional time and money to install, not to mention create disruption to the business. The answer was the JouleTherm® range of electric radiators which were first installed last year. The system proved so successful that when Donna expanded her premises, she asked EcoVolt to again provide the heating system. Donna explained, “Our building didn’t have a heating system so we had been simply using oil-filled radiators. But these meant that we had no heating until we came in and turned them on every morning and then it proved difficult to control them. “Ensuring my customers feel comfortable is essential to my business, so the JouleTherm® radiators have proved perfect. The installation was really fast, so it didn’t disrupt my business and the system is really easy to use, so I couldn’t be happier. “When we took over the business unit next door, bringing EcoVolt back to put in a new system was an easy decision.” The initial installation process took just three hours and when EcoVolt returned they were able to add on the additional electric radiators onto the existing heating

www.elecmagazine.com

controls system.” This project is the perfect example of how perfectly the JouleTherm® range of electrical radiators works within a commercial setting. Manufactured using the latest in thermal technologies combined with electronic thermostats for accurate heating control, the JouleTherm® range provides smart, efficient electrical heating. The JouleTherm® smart electric radiator is designed to suit every application. It incorporates high thermal density Kaolin/ Ceramic heating tablets that deliver excellent energy efficiency. This energy is controlled by a built-in LCD electronic thermostat that regulates the amount of energy that is required to maintain the temperature set by the end-user. On projects with more than one JouleTherm® radiator the system can be controlled from one central location through the JouleTherm® touchscreen controller. In the case of the project at Donna Donaghy Skincare, the team was able to add the radiators added to the building expansion into the existing heating control system. Stephen Dempsey, Managing Director at EcoVolt, said, “The ability to provide individual heating zones connected to each radiator made a real difference to Donna as it provided her with an addition level of control that she didn’t have before – and all

without having to go through the disruption of installing an oil, gas or renewables system. “In fact, our JouleTherm® range of electric radiators can significantly reduce energy consumption and help customers with their energy bills and in reducing their carbon footprint. “We are currently monitoring the system at Donna’s and we are looking forward to seeing the saving we have been able to create.” T: (RoI) 01 524 0387 or (NI) 00353 1 524 0387 E: info@ecovolt.ie W: www.ecovolt.ie

Benefits at a glance… • • • • • • • • • •

On an average gas-fired or oil central heating system, JouleTherm® can generate savings of up to 60% on the capital cost of the installation Does not require pipes, tanks, gas or oil to operate 100% efficient Can supplement existing wet systems to heat those hard-to-heat rooms Can avail of economy heating tariffs and night rate heating tariffs Carbon footprint reduction Low capital installation costs Easy maintenance, simple installation Warm, comfortable, radiant heat Simple installation – perfect retrofit solution for Economy 7, storage heaters and cheap, inefficient electric convection heaters.

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 23

lighting

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

lighting FROM LIGHTING ENERGY CONSERVATION TIPS TO NEW PRODUCT LAUNCHES, ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE PUTS THE SPOTLIGHT ON THE LATEST lighting NEWs…

VersiTile™ delivers five star performance

Megaman provides a more intimate lighting experience

egaman has achieved another industry first with the launch of a wide range of LED products that incorporate a new ‘Dim to Warm’ system, which provides improved dimming performance, with the warmth and characteristics of halogen. These LEDs emit a warmer light when they are dimmed with a colour temperature that changes smoothly from 2800K to 1800K when dimmed from 100% to 10%. Megaman’s Dim to Warm LED lamps feature the same compact profile as incandescent and halogen lamps and are true equivalent replacements in terms of performance, appearance and ambiance. The range includes Candles, Classics, MR16s, AR111s and Integrated LED Downlights, all of which offer a long life of up to 50,000 hours and high lumen maintenance. The result is a much more intimate LED lighting experience in commercial settings where lighting plays an important role in creating the mood, particularly the hospitality industry. The Dim to Warm capability also provides high energy savings and lower maintenance costs with no compromise in visual comfort. T: (NI) 0845 408 4625 or (RoI) 0044 845 408 4625 E: sales@megamanuk.com W: www.megamanuk.com

ersiTile™ - Aurora’s new highly-rated retrofit LED range - was recently awarded five stars and described as “great value” by Lux Magazine. VersiTile is far more than just a standard flat panel - It can be used for offices and commercial lighting as it meets a UGR (Unified Glare Rating) rating of 19. Testing by LIA laboratories showed performance up to 110lm/W and exceeds ErP compliance. Covered by a five-year warranty and available in a range of mounting options and sizes, VersiTile has a seamless joint while the edge-lit design provides superior light performance and uniformity. CRI (Ra) is 80+, lifetime is 40,000 hours to L70, and being IP44, it far exceeds legislative requirements of CE marking. T: (NI) 00353 1 6968028 or 00353 83 420 6847 or (RoI) 01 6968028 or 083 420 6847 E: des.duignan@auroralighting.com or andrea. duignan@auroralighting.com W: www.auroralighting.com

in this section

Cross Group Pages 26-27

24 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

Saturn LED Pages 28-29

Hilclare Lighting Pages 37

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

VLED lamps from Venture for energy-saving retrofit solutions

enture Lighting Europe is continuing its expansion into solid state lighting by introducing its VLED Professional Retrofit Lamp to the market. The new VLED lamps are an energy-saving direct replacement for traditional lamps such as incandescent, fluorescent, HPS, MH and mercury lamps (soon to be banned in the EU). The range has been awarded an A+ EU energy rating and is available from 20W to 150W. T: (NI) 01923 692600 or (RoI) 0044 1923 692600 E: info@venturelighting.co.uk W: www.venturelightingeurope.com

Robus products verified by LIA labs

he LIA Laboratories has announced that a selection of Robus products from leading Irish lighting company, LED Group Ltd, are the first to receive approval under the LIA Labs Verification Scheme. LED Group’s ROBUS is Ireland’s premier lighting brand and one of the top 3 in the UK, operating via the electrical wholesale market channel. The company’s product range is well known in over 40 countries worldwide and, whilst LED Group carries out vigorous in-house and independent testing on all products, it has embraced the 20 years’ experience and credentials offered by the LIA laboratories’ testing facility. As expected, confirmation of the test results that all ROBUS products passed with flying colours. Founder Michael Slein commented “We have total confidence in our products; however we were keen to carry out independent testing through the highly regarded LIA Laboratories to demonstrate the high quality of the merchandise we produce. “The Verification mark is already carried on our product range packaging and literature and offers even further peace of mind to our customers and our customers’, customers alike in relation to the safety, quality and performance of the ROBUS product range.” T: (RoI) 01 709 9000 or (NI) 00353 1 709 9000 E: info@ledgrouprobus.com W: www.ledgrouprobus.com

www.elecmagazine.com

lighting

Batten Mount Lighting Controls ideal for use in warehouses

ANLERS Batten Mount PIR Occupancy controls are the low cost, simple to fit, energy saving solution for organisations demanding a reduction in their rising energy costs. They are ideal for switching lights off when not required and, with energy savings of up to 50%, the payback period is kept to a minimum. These UK manufactured, IP53 rated controls switch lighting loads of up to 10amps (6A fluorescent) and are simply fixed to the end of a lighting batten. New to the range are the ‘Batten Mount Spot Detection’ controls featuring a narrow (1.5m) zone of detection ideal for access points into storage aisles. Additionally, the new ‘Batten Mount Reduced Height Detection’ controls are designed for areas with open grid flooring where false triggering can occur through other levels. Variants for both controls are available offering either a ‘passive’ photocell or DANLERS radical ‘Intelligent’ photocell. The ‘Intelligent’ photocell features a one touch calibration process that distinguishes the difference between the artificial light and the ambient light delivered to the photocell and therefore minimises the risk of false triggering or ‘hunting.’ T: (NI) 01249 443377 or (RoI) 0044 1249 443377 E: sales@danlers.co.uk W: www.danlers.co.uk

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 25

COVER STORY – CROSS GROUP

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

CREE LEDs from Cross Group have been installed at the new Park and Ride at the M1 junction at Tamnamore.

Simon Marshall, Project Manager, and Joe Conway, Commercial Director, Cross Group.

Perfect partnership between two companies that demand – and deliver – the highest standards in LED lighting…

Cross Group is new authorised CREE distributor

ross Group has been appointed as an authorised CREE distributor for its LED lighting range for commercial, industrial and street lighting projects. With these two companies insisting on the highest possible standards, this has proved to be the perfect partnership on both fronts. However, more importantly, it is one that will benefit those working on commercial and industrial lighting projects as well as street lighting in both the public and private sectors. “CREE is recognised as the biggest LED lighting company in the world, so this is a

major coup for us,” explained Joe Conway, Commercial Director at Cross Group. “We pride ourselves on setting the highest standards and that has been the foundation of the company’s success. So to be able to announce a partnership with CREE – a company that has more LED luminaires in the marketplace than any other manufacturer – speaks volumes.” This viewpoint has been echoed by Darren Marsh, CREE Sales Manager for UK and Ireland. “We are delighted to secure a strategic partnership with Cross Group,” he said. “This is a company that reflects the values

we respect and the customer service focus we anticipate from our partners. We look forward to building on this alliance to deliver an unrivalled service to our customers.” The consistent quality delivered by CREE is recognised across the world, with the company not only offering its own innovative product range but also manufacturing many of the components that are used by leading lighting manufacturers. As such, CREE has become a byword for quality within the LED lighting sector. The company is able to offer these high

“This is a company that reflects the high standards that we demand from our authorised distributors.” 26 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

COVER STORY – CROSS GROUP

About Cree U CREE is leading the LED lighting

Some of the latest projects completed by Cross Group and CREE.

revolution to make energy-wasting traditional lighting technologies obsolete through the use of energy-efficient, mercury-free LED lighting. Since its inception in 1987, CREE has been a market-leading innovator of lighting-class LEDs and LED lighting solutions. CREE LED lighting is saving energy and creating beautiful, functional, sustainable indoor and outdoor spaces in over 80 countries. CREE has delivered over 6 million LED luminaires worldwide and has achieved over 55 billion burn hours in LED lighting applications.

About Cross Group U LED lighting systems from Cross

standards because it controls every single aspect of the manufacturing process. For this reason, a 10-year warranty is available. Cross Group further complements this quality by providing an overall package to match these products. As part of the overall service provided by Cross Group, the company’s professional team can provide a full lighting design service in addition to a complete cost breakdown. This includes cost of ownership modelling that incorporates initial costs alongside savings and payback calculations. Cross Group can also provide details on the various funding options available and, as a Carbon Trust accredited

company, can also help customers with the application process. Joe added, “We were one of the first companies to become seriously involved in LEDs, but our insistence on only using proven, quality products proved critical to that initial success. That is why we have a natural affinity with Cree LED. “We will be combining their proven product range with our extensive experience within the private and public sector and look forward to bringing CREE’s innovative range to more and more projects in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.”

Group are helping to reduce the energy consumption of projects across the UK and Ireland. The company has an established reputation within the retail sector, working for major brand names in the UK and Ireland to cut energy costs and improve the visual appeal of displays for major supermarkets. The company was one of the first to embrace LED technology, and Cross Group, by embracing the latest technological advances, has remained ahead of competitors. With a strong relationship with leading manufacturer, Nualight, Cross Group has worked on retail projects for Spar across the UK and Ireland. Through its new partnership with Cree, Cross Group is set to bring this same experience to the commercial, industrial and street lighting sectors.

See one of Cross Group’s latest projects - Spar Hackney store - at https://youtu.be/8NCf3tLXkn4

Cross Group, 58 Hamiltonsbawn Road Industrial Estate, Armagh T: (NI) 028 3752 6090 or (RoI) 00 44 (0)28 3752 6090 - E: info.ni@cross-group.org www.cross-group.org

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 27

lighting

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

service from leading lighting distributors is enhanced with opening of new facilities…

Saturn LED opens new Irish distribution centre

aturn LED has taken the next step in the company’s evolution by opening new offices and a distribution centre in Northern Ireland. The move to the new distribution centre now means that any orders placed before 6pm can be delivered anywhere in Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland the next day. This is a significant extension of the

previous ‘last orders’ deadline and a factor that Saturn LED feels will further enhance the company’s customer-first approach that continues to prove so successful. The opening of the new distribution centre is also a reflection of the company’s growing success, with the significant investment in the distribution facilities being matched by an increase in the size of the talented customer service team. The sizeable new facilities, based on the outskirts of Coalisland, are perfectly positioned in the heart of Mid-Ulster to distribute Saturn LED’s extensive product range across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. These new headquarters will work in conjunction with Saturn LED’s distribution base in Chelmsford and alongside the company’s sourcing office in Shanghai, China. This is all part of the holistic approach to customer service that has been specifically developed by Saturn LED to perfectly merge the integral factors of price, quality and service into one cohesive philosophy.

Delivering quality, innovative and costcompetitive LEDs for the commercial, industrial and domestic sectors, Saturn LED’s product range is only available through leading electrical wholesalers in the UK and Ireland. A consistent evolution of the company’s product range – reflected in the impending release of a new brochure later this year - is combating the plethora of cheap, low quality LED luminaires that have deluged the UK and Irish markets. In contrast, Saturn LED is offering quality, with all LEDs incorporating CREE, Philips or Tridonic components, with the addition of a five-year warranty providing additional peace of mind for customers. The company also delivers when it comes to price. As one of the few independent distributors within the UK and Ireland distribution markets, Saturn LED’s strong procurement process, coupled with a focus on service, enables customers to benefit from highly competitive pricing across the company’s product range.

New catalogue coming soon!

Highlighting Saturn LED’s expanding product range, the company will be unveiling a new brochure this summer!

28 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

lighting

The Saturn LED range is now available for next-day delivery from CEF branches in NI and RoI

3 1 Verso LED panels 2 Diamond Circular downlights 3 Jetto commercial downlights

Lighting up Newell Stores

aturn LED has played an integral role in reducing the lighting costs for one of the province’s leading independent retailers. Working in partnership with electrical contractor, F. McQuaide Electrical, and electrical wholesaler, City Electrical Factors (CEF), Saturn LED supplied a range of LEDs to the new 25,000sqft Newell Stores supermarket in Coalisland. Newell Stores has been in business for over 20 years and this project, which the largest ever investment in Coalisland, saw the company selecting only quality suppliers and contractors. Saturn LED was one of those chosen, with the company’s stringent quality control measures in its

manufacturing process through to delivery to site, playing a key role in this decision. However, the significant savings delivered by the quality Saturn LED product range was also a significant factor. The company carried out a full energy audit for the project alongside a lighting design to ensure that the highest levels of savings could be achieved. As a result Saturn LED products have helped reduce the electrical spend on the project from £68,169.38 to £20,921.50 – that’s a saving of by £47,247.88 per year! These savings were coupled with the company’s ability to work with both the contractor and wholesaler to ensure the project was completed on time.

CASE STUDY Newell Stores, Coalisland Project name: Newell Stores, Coalisland Products supplied: Verso LED panels Diamond Circular downlights Jetto commercial downlights. Electrical contractor: F.McQuaide Electrical. Electrical wholesaler: City Electrical Factors, Craigavon T: 028 3833 2789

Saturn LED T: (NI) 028 8788 0063 or (RoI) 048 8788 0063 - E: sales@saturnled.eu www.saturnled.eu

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 29

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

lighting

The newly equipped orthopaedic operating theatre at Furness General Hospital.

REVOLUTIONARY STERIS XLED LIGHTING FROM BENDER UK OFFERS TOP PERFORMANCE IN HOSPITAL THEATRE SETTINGS…

Cutting-edge LED lighting performance for surgical environments

urgical professionals now demand so much more than simple illumination from their operating theatre lighting. State-of-the-art theatre lighting must offer advanced performance that eliminates shadows, provides true colour rendering (vital in determining the condition of patients), delivers light with an absence of the heat that is both uncomfortable for the staff and a threat to the patient, and offers low-maintenance energy efficiency to ensure competitive thru-life costs. This complex performance specification can be achieved with the revolutionary range of Steris XLED lighting, available to hospitals and clinics in Britain and Ireland exclusively through Bender UK, with dozens of the systems already in operation. Steris is a world leader in hospital equipment and has developed the XLED lighting system to provide cutting-edge performance for surgical environments. XLED rethinks the surgical lighting concept with its innovative design, offering the ideal intensity and quantity of light for each application, including endoscopic procedures, and delivering up to 160,000 Lux. LED lamps do not emit infrared rays, so virtually no heat is radiated towards the surgical field. As a result, the risk of drying out exposed tissue is minimised, and the

www.elecmagazine.com

conditions for the patient and surgical team are cooler and more comfortable. LED lighting is hugely more energy efficient than conventional lamps in terms of the energy used in generating the required lighting performance, but the system also cuts the running costs for the facility because LEDs do not generate heat that must then be removed by air conditioning. The Steris XLED lamps are specifically engineered to emit white light and thus avoid the need for filters to counteract the negative effects which are characteristic of colour LEDs. The system provides excellent natural colour rendition that remains stable over time, allowing surgeons to interpret tissue and vessel appearance with the utmost accuracy. Moreover, Steris has maximised the system’s R9 value, a measurement of critical importance as it determines the eye’s ability to distinguish subtle shades of red. The modular system offers a choice of one, two, three or four spots to meet every surgical need. Each spot array of 20 LEDs is configured to optimise the laminar flow of light, producing patterns perfectly arranged to remove shadows, ensure excellent colour rendering and maintain even illumination, eliminating the rainbow effects that can lead to visual fatigue. The exclusive Wavelens system, available as

standard on XLED3 and XLED4, can instantly adjust the pattern diameter through beam divergence to maintain lighting quality without refocusing or repositioning the head. Each XLED spot is mounted on a lightweight and balanced system for easy positioning, and offers a single cardanic gimble version for operating theatres with low ceilings.

T: (NI) 01229 480123 or (RoI) 01 5060 611 E: info@bender-uk.com W: www.bender-uk.com

Case Study U Bender UK enhanced the

performance of a £300,000 theatre for orthopaedic implant surgery at Furness General Hospital, with the installation and commissioning of Steris advanced XLED operating lamps. The company’s unique wall-mounted touchscreen panel with anti-bacterial finish is used to control the theatre environment, and Bender also installed Isolated Power Supplies (IPS) and Uninterruptable Power Supplies (UPS).

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 31

lighting

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Even if you’ve worked with ECI before, the leading lighting distributor is worth a second look…

The highest quality brands from ECI Lighting

CI Lighting offers a lot more than you think, with the company continuing to grow its extensive range of quality lighting brands. Respected as one of the leading names in the lighting industry, the company distributes its product range directly to electrical wholesalers across both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The product range incorporates some of the most innovative lighting manufacturers in the industry, meaning ECI Lighting is able to provide customers with access to the very latest product developments. The extensive range includes leading names such as Prelux, Megaman, Fumagalli, Bega, Abacus, Ares, Delta Light, Glashutte Limburg, Regent Lighting, Roxo and Venture. ECI Lighting also recognises the time

pressures that contractors are placing on electrical wholesalers, so the company works hard to ensure you have the products you need, when you need them! For this reason ECI holds substantial lighting stocks at its 15,000sqft premises in Finglas, Dublin and its base in Belfast. The company itself operates from 3 branches in Dublin, Belfast and Cork working closely together in order to efficiently service all its customers across the island of Ireland and UK. The company has both Wholesale and Specification divisions, meaning ECI can offer a uniquely broad product portfolio, and to a diverse client base of electrical wholesalers, lighting shops, architects,

engineers, consultants and designers. A professional in-house lighting design service adds a further string to ECI’s bow. T: Dublin 01 860 1860 or Belfast 028 9075 6436 E: Dublin on info@ecilighting.ie or Belfast on belfast@ecilighting.co.uk W: www.ecilighting.co.uk

Distributors of:

DUBLIN OFFICE: 34-35 North Park, North Road, Finglas, Dublin 11, Ireland Telephone: (01) 860 1860 Email: info@ecilighting.ie

CORK OFFICE: Unit 1, Barryscourt, Carrigtwohill, Co. Cork Telephone: (01) 488 3434 Email: Islye@ecilighting.ie

BELFAST OFFICE: Units 25-26.North City Business Centre, 2 Duncairn Gardens, Belfast, BT15 2GG Telephone: (28) 9075 6436 Email: belfast@ecilighting.co.uk

FOR OUR FULL PRODUCT RANGE SEE: www.ecilighting.co.uk

32 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

LIGHTING

Neil Wareham, Head of Southern Lighting Design Services and Solutions at electrical wholesaler YESSS Electrical, discusses the outdoor lighting trends set to welcome the summer with style...

Say YESSS to outdoor lighting

“Changing street lighting can save from £200,000 to over £1million per year, depending on the existing fittings.” www.elecmagazine.com

ith the warmer months approaching, many consumers are in need of a stylish, quality outdoor lighting solution to make the most of the upcoming mild summer evenings. With energy efficiency remaining a key issue in the industry, it is vital to choose outdoor lighting solutions that offer lower maintenance and less light pollution in order to save both energy and money. Consumers are increasingly looking for outdoor lighting solutions that omit less light pollution. As with all lighting, but, in particular, outdoor lighting, it is a common issue when your lighting product illuminates surrounding areas rather than the actual area you need. One of the most common forms of outdoor lighting is, of course, street lighting. Whilst street lighting is undoubtedly a necessity, the costs can often seem extortionate. The maintenance and running costs of street lighting are one of the largest costs for local Government departments. Replacing a lamp in a 6-16m high fitting requires costly expertise and equipment, and expenses such as these soon mount up - but there are ways to reduce costs. For example, it’s becoming more frequent for street lighting and some carpark lighting to be turned off completely to save energy. Some LED lighting options come with dimming and control options to save further energy without having to switch off the light altogether. Another way to reduce costs is to switch to LED lighting. Changing street lighting can save from £200,000 to over £1million per year, depending on the existing fittings. Although alternatives are still in a development stage, there are still many

options available and, as the technology develops, the associated costs will come down. The rewards are much greater with an LED alternative as this type of lighting uses less energy, lasts longer and requires less maintenance, proving it to be one of the most cost-effective lighting options. With further improvements – such as the development of chips to produce more lumens per watt – its growth in popularity is likely to continue. LED floodlights are one of the most common outdoor products, steadily replacing conventional discharge options. The versatility of this product means it is suitable for a variety of different uses, ranging from car parks to small sports areas. On a smaller scale, many commercial users would like to change their domestic outdoor lighting to LED in order to save energy, but are understandably concerned by the cost and how quickly the products will pay for themselves and deliver a return on investment. One way in which wholesalers such as YESSS are helping to educate installers on this is by providing cost of ownership calculations to help them work with customers to make informed decisions. Traditional discharge lamps can still provide a good alternative with lower capital costs. Some non-LED lights also offer glare control and minimum maintenance. However, ultimately all consumers are looking for a stylish, quality solution that offers strong return on investment, and the industry must work to give them exactly that. YESSS has branches in Ballymena, Coleraine, Craigavon, Belfast North, Belfast East and Lisburn. For more details, visit www.yesss.co.uk

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 35

lighting

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

James Harding, Category Manager for Lighting, Newey & Eyre, discusses the legislation and technical advancements that have driven these changes…

Shining new light on the LED

ED lighting solutions were once considered the preserve of the high-end specification remit; seen as expensive and restricted to only those who could afford high-end consumer products. In recent years, however, we’ve seen a dramatic turn around, with an explosion of innovation and mounting green legislation working to propel LED into the mainstream. The past few years have seen the lighting market undergo a period of great change, a key catalyst of which has been a raft of regulatory changes. Last year saw the amendments to Part L of the Building Regulations go live, which calls for a focus on lighting controls in commercial buildings and outlines the role that they can play in reducing energy usage. With lighting accounting for around 40% of a commercial building’s energy usage¹, installing an efficient lighting solution can enable businesses to make significant savings on both their carbon emissions and their energy bills. Further to the Part L revisions, additional legislation such as the Domestic Implementation Measure 2 (DIM2) has set out several minimum performance standards for LED lamps. This means that products can now be compared on a likefor-like basis, with inferior products being

36 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

driven out of the market. By unifying the legislation, it enables comparisons to be drawn between luminaires – something that has not been possible until now. For example, measuring light in lumens rather than Watts can highlight how much light a lamp is actually emitting – according to DIM2, a 230 lumen output LED GU10 is the equivalent of a 35W standard halogen GU10 lamp. This is particularly helpful during the specification process, as it enables contractors to choose a product based on the exact amount of light required within that space. Testament to this, we are already seeing the impact. According to the most recent AMA Report (2014-2018 analysis), the UK LED lighting market was estimated to be worth £330million in 2013 at Manufacturers’ Selling Prices (MSP). This incorporates all finished, mains-operated LED lighting products, domestic and non-domestic ,used within construction and building. The market was characterised mainly by sales of LED luminaires, accounting for 75%, with the rest of the market made up by Replacement LED lamps and LED controls and accessories. The market is expected to grow rapidly, with a value estimated at around £1,050 million by 2018². So what does the future of the LED market

look like? We are seeing consumers becoming increasingly interested in controlling their lighting and, by adding controls, energy savings are increased even further. End-users are now also demanding greater performance in terms of colour consistency and lumen output, which the DIM2 again aims to iron out. Added to this, the development of enhanced dimming controls now allow people to move from ‘on wall’ controls to remote wireless devices, ensuring even greater flexibility. However, it is not just the individual business or consumer that should take advantage of this energy efficiency - as a country we need to embrace it. With the potential of winter energy shortages becoming a reality, and industry experts predicting that we may experience blackouts by 2015³, it is imperative that we utilise the most energy-efficient technology possible. While the raft of legislation that the modern contractor must now adhere to can seem somewhat daunting, by getting to grips with it and embracing new innovations, the opportunity for new profitable revenue streams will soon open up. 1. Carbon Trust 2. http://www.amaresearch.co.uk/LED_Lighting_14s.html 3. http://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/485792/Britain-atrisk-of-energy-BLACKOUTS-over-the-next-two-winters

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

lighting

Lighting upgrade at Door Store’s Boucher Road branch delivers savings and improved performance…

Open the Door to energy savings with Hilclare

ilclare Lighting has opened the door to energy savings for a leading Belfast retailer following the success of a recent upgrade project. The leading lighting manufacturer replaced a set of 400W metal halide floodlights at the Door Store’s premises at Boucher Road with the 200W LED Coruna range to deliver improved performance alongside savings on the company’s lighting bill. “Lighting is an area where companies can significantly reduce their costs by investing in LED technology,” explained Steven McMurray, Northern Ireland Project Engineer for Hilclare Lighting. “This is yet another example of a company initially investigating how to cut their energy costs but also being able to take advantage of an improved lighting system. “Door Store is such a recognisable name, and we are hoping to build on this initial success by providing more

“Lighting is an area where companies can significantly reduce their costs by investing in LED technology.”

energy-saving lighting options for the company in future.” The Coruna range of LED floodlights proved the perfect choice for the Door Store. A range of IP65 LED floodlights, the Coruna has an asymmetric optical system which can help reduce both light pollution (sky glow) and light trespass. They are suitable for a wide variety of floodlighting applications, ranging from domestic use to large car parks. They fitted perfectly in the commercial setting of the Boucher Road, giving the Door Store added prominence thanks to its upgraded lighting. Constructed from high purity aluminium casing and a polished aluminium reflector, complete with frosted tempered glass cover, Coruna is Class 1 protected against electric shock by earthed metalwork. The range of luminaires is designed and manufactured to meet the requirements of BSEN

60598 2-1. The Coruna range is reflective of the high quality range of outdoor lighting available from Hilclare Lighting. The exterior lighting range comprises a broad spectrum of options from gardens, doorways and walkways, to larger exterior environments such as dockyards, freight terminals and substantial architectural structures. Hilclare can also design systems or supply luminaires for all manner of commercial requirements, offering many years of expertise in lighting specification and energy management. Steven concluded, “We continue to enjoy success with projects such as these across various types of businesses. Recently, we have completed projects ranging from car showrooms and manufacturing facilities through to retail, and by merging the innovation of our product range with a tailored service we have found the perfect combination.”

T: (NI) Steven McMurray, Northern Ireland Project Engineer, on 07710 073 250 or (RoI) Wyre Lighting Ltd on 087 259 3272. E: sm@hilclare.com www.hilclare.com

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 37

lighting

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Lightify system GIVES consumers and professionals lighting control at their fingertips…

OSRAM sets the right mood with personalised lighting

ome-owners now have the technology at their fingertips to create subtle lighting changes and effects in every room of their house, thanks to the Lightify system from OSRAM. Light bulbs and fittings within the range are controlled through a smartphone app that allows the user to adjust the colour and intensity of lighting in individual rooms, and even combine multiple light sources. Lightify allows users to explore both their creative and practical needs. For example, lighting colours can be adjusted and timed in children’s rooms to help them wake up in the morning and calm them at night. Living room lighting can be switched from daylight-simulated to relaxing evening light or even a home cinema atmosphere at the touch of a button. Lightify also remembers

favourite light colours and settings. There are many products available in two versions; offering up to 16 million different colour variations from the complete light spectrum; and all colours between warm white and cool white from the second version. These can be used in both indoor and outdoor applications, including: • Garden spots • Downlights • Desk lighting • Surface light luminaires • Flex lighting strips (pro) The gateway serves as the control unit for all connected Lightify devices, requiring a WLAN connection but no cabling to the internet. The smartphone app is downloadable for free from various app stores. In addition to

the Lightify version for private users, a Pro version is available for professionals, with the gateway enabling not only 50 but 100 light sources to be integrated into the system. A push-button coupler also allows light switches to be used – simply remove the switch, install the push-button coupler and attach the switch again. An app is available for the installer and another for the end user, enabling DALI networks to be intuitively set up and operated. Lightify is fully interoperable with products from other manufacturers, enabling connectivity and future proofing thanks to conformity to the ZigBee (www.zigbee.org) lighting standard. T: (NI) David Cochrane on 07831 490367 or (RoI) 0044 1744 812221 W: http://led.osram.co.uk/led_uk/lightify/ index.jsp

New compact LED bulkhead extends Thorn’s trusted Voyager emergency lighting range…

Thorn unveils Voyager Compact LED

ew from Thorn, Voyager Compact LED is the latest extension to Thorn’s trusted Voyager emergency lighting range. Ideal for new installations and direct 8W fluorescent replacements, the compact 100lm LED emergency bulkhead is 76% more efficient than fluorescent alternatives, using just 3W when in maintained mode. Voyager Compact LED is sealed to IP65 and suitable for outdoor and indoor applications. With conical and side optical prisms, performance and spacing can be maximised. Kevin Thompson, Global Product Manager at Thorn Lighting, said, “Voyager Compact LED is a high performance, compact and energy saving emergency bulkhead. Its robust, dust-tight and jet waterproof design ensures suitability for all escape routes

38 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

and anti-panic open areas. It’s a versatile, affordable and easy to maintain addition to our popular Voyager range.” Fast and simple to install, Voyager Compact LED benefits from maintained and non-maintained operation within the same luminaire and can be installed in one piece with no mounting kit. When used as an exit sign, Voyager Compact LED can be seen from 20m. A long 50 000-hour lifetime ensures low maintenance requirements and costs. For more information about Voyager Compact LED, go to www.thornlighting.com/VOYC

“Fast and simple to install, Voyager Compact LED benefits from maintained and non-maintained operation within the same luminaire and can be installed in one piece with no mounting kit.” FOLLOW US ON:

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

security management

Mercury Security Management provides new tailored services to meet all your security needs and reduce your security budget…

Pioneers of integrated security solutions

ounded in 2001, Mercury Security Management Ltd is Ireland’s largest independent security management company. With offices in Lisburn, Dublin, Limerick and London - and soon to open an office in Scotland - the company has worked hard over the last decade to become firmly established as a pioneer of modern day integrated security solutions. The company also promotes quality in fire safety 24/7. Kevin Hall, Mercury’s Technical Manager, stated, “If you require fire protection services for your premises, then you need a company with the experience and accreditations so the equipment and service they supply all meet the appropriate standards and are independently audited for compliance and quality. “We offer you a wide range of fire detection and alarm systems, ranging from small conventional to large addressable networked systems. Our services include fire alarm system design, installation, commission, verification and maintenance.” In today’s environment of risk assessment and with the increasing responsibility for safety on the owner/occupier, it is increasingly important that the quality of your fire protection is ‘fit for purpose’ and is installed and maintained by ‘competent persons’. In buying your fire protection from a BAFE Registered company like Mercury Security you are assured of this. And, where relevant, an independent third party certificate of conformance is issued this can be used as part of a statutory defence in law, should the necessity arise. Kevin added, “Our new platforms have been developed to integrate and control CCTV, Intruder and Fire detection, Access Control, Perimeter Protection Devices, and Lone Worker managing every incident through to conclusion. “Some of the great features we offer you include, CCTV video analytics enabling playback of any event using a combination of quick search criteria, camera tampering detection with immediate alerts and full reporting – which can be customised or designed to meet your requirements.

“Our software platforms also allow for the sophisticated creation and maintenance of site plans that can easily be updated and expanded as site conditions change. And interactive mapping of the parameters of each camera allow site maps to display orientation, angle of view and the target distance of each camera, so that when the user clicks on the site plan, the nearest camera will automatically view the required area. “The software enables customisation, meaning it can meet bespoke security requirements of your location.” In the Republic of Ireland, Mercury Security is highly accredited to the standards IS228, SR25, SR40,SR41 and PSA 28:2013 and supplies the company’s integrated security solutions to many of the leading members of the business community in Ireland. Kevin said, “At this stage, we would simply welcome a telephone conversation with you to discuss the measurable benefits of delivering a Mercury Security Audit for your organisation. This is without any commitment or expenditure. Clients tell us it is an invaluable service. You can trust us to provide you with a forensic, insightful and objective analysis of your security systems.”

Accredited services... The accredited services provided by Mercury Security Management include •

NACOSS Gold Approved for the Design, Installation and Maintenance of Electronic Security Systems including Access Control, CCTV Systems and Intruder Alarms.

•

NSI Gold approved for The Design, Installation, Commissioning and Handover, Verification and Maintenance of Fire Detection and Alarm Systems to BS 5839-1.

• NSI Gold approved CCTV Remote Monitoring; Alarm & Fire, Temperature Monitoring; Retail and Concierge Guarding; Key holding and alarm response; Satellite Tracked Mobile Patrols; Staff and Vehicle Escort Services; Lone Worker Monitoring; Vehicle and Asset Tracking; Approved and Accredited Training.

Mercury Security Management – offices in Lisburn – Dublin – Limerick - London T: (NI) 028 9262 0510 or (RoI) 00 353 1 8612130 www.mercurysecurity .ie

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 39

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

WIRING ACCESSORIES

SOME OF THE RECENT DEVELOPMENTS by Scolmore that highlight the company’s ability to meet exacting needs…

A lecture in quality at state-of-the-art university

PHOTO COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY OF BRISTOL.

iring accessory products from the Scolmore Group have been installed throughout the new state-of-the-art lecture theatre at the University of Bristol. Switches, sockets and spurs from Scolmore’s Part M collection have been installed in conjunction with products from the Essentials collection of Metal Clad wiring accessories in the new 450-seat lecture theatre – which provides an individual power supply for each student – as well as in the foyers and the seminar rooms which make up the new complex at the Priory Road site. Scolmore’s Mode Part M products were chosen to meet the regulatory requirements, while at the same time offering a high standard of design and flexibility. With all wall-mounted switches and sockets now required to be positioned at a certain height,

and therefore much more visible, the overall aesthetic appearance has become increasingly important. The choice of wiring accessories from the company’s metal clad collection has ensured the products installed offer a durable and longlasting finish. All switch products are of modular construction which allows total freedom in designing customised switching solutions according to on-site needs. All socket outlets and spurs are tested and approved to BS1363.

“Scolmore’s Mode Part M products were chosen to meet the regulatory requirements, while at the same time offering a high standard of design and flexibility.”

Practical Part M solutions

he Approved Document M of the Building Regulations is an essential element of virtually every new building project. The latest document – updated in 2013 – aims to make buildings accessible to and usable by everyone, including people with disabilities, the elderly, hard of hearing and visually impaired. Scolmore Group’s Click Mode wiring accessory range incorporates a range of products designed to offer practical and stylish solutions that comply with the various elements of the Part M regulations. Mode wiring accessories are available in an anthracite grey finish to provide an effective visual contrast against the high reflective decors used in the majority of today’s

buildings. Lighter coloured rockers are also an aid to visibility. The Click range also offers a wide range of colours and finishes. The modular design is a standard feature of the Mode range, allowing contractors and installers the flexibility of creating dedicated wiring solutions to deal specifically with virtually all wiring requirements. The Click Mode Part M compliant product range includes switches, sockets, control switches, new media plates and pull cord switches.

A brochure containing the full Mode Part M product range is available to download from the Scolmore website – www.scolmore.com

NI: David Rankin – T: 07785 621117 – E: david.rankin@scolmore.com RoI: Click Litehouse – T: 01 2811 122 – E: sales@clicklitehouse.ie www.scolmore.com or www.clicklitehouse.ie

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 41

project insight

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Project Insight Mount Stewart Restoration

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE TURNS THE SPOTLIGHT ON THE INTRICATE RESTORATION PROCESS AT THIS NATIONAL TRUST PROPERTY…

Irwin Electrical combining past and present at Mount Stewart

odern techniques and technology, combined with a respect for the past, showcased the best of what Irwin Electrical has to offer during the company’s work on the restoration of Mount Stewart House. The painstaking restoration of the Grade A Listed National Trust property aimed to restore the elegance and charm of the house back to when it was the home of the 7th Marchioness Edith, Lady Londonderry and her family in the early 20th Century. This, in itself, proved a major challenge but had the added complication of that it remained open to the public. This meant the construction team – including Irwin Electrical – became a tourist attraction in their own right. Throughout the intricate restoration process,

“The Irwin Electrical team had to adapt their current working practices to suit the needs of this Grade A Listed building.” 42 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

the work carried out by Irwin Electrical continually created unique challenges. The company was responsible for the complete electrical contract on the project that included rewiring and upgrading. The contract also incorporated lighting, power and switchgear replacement alongside the installation of new fire alarms and a security system. The main challenge was integrating modern technology into the 18th Century building and, in particular, the existing lighting. Mark Whaley, Irwin Electrical, explained, “There was a focus on improving the overall sustainability of the project so while we refurbished all the existing fittings, including antique light fittings and chandeliers, this also had to be incorporated into the TEBIS

project insight

BUS system to provide added lighting control.” With all this in mind, Irwin Electrical had to work closely with main contractor, H&J Martin, and mechanical contractor, Maurice Stevenson Ltd, as well as other specialist contractors, to carefully coordinate the services and each stage of the work. Due to its extraordinary architectural interiors and its special historical interest, the team also had to adapt its current working practices to suit the needs of this Grade A Listed building. Mark added, “Works were carried out via a strict works programme to allow the house to remain open as a visitor attraction. As a result, when carrying out work in any room

of the building we had to ensure that it was 360 degrees protected. “In addition to that, we were unable to carry out any work of our own accord, as all electrical installations – including new sockets, lights and cabling routes - had to be marked and approved by one of the onsite National Trust Surveyors. It was certainly a different challenge but the standard of our work proves that we are more than capable of successfully meeting specific demands.” The team didn’t have much room to work in either, with tight spaces in the attic and the basement areas all utilised. In addition, within Mount Stewart House, much of the company’s work also had to remain hidden from public view.

Irwin Electrical, Unit 4, Diviny Drive, Carn, Portadown, BT63 5WE T: 028 3839 7990 E: info@irwinelectrical.com www.irwinelectrical.com

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 43

ENCLOSURES

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

CHRIS EDWARDS, PRODUCT MANAGER AT HELLERMANNTYTON’S ENCLOSURE SOLUTIONS, EXPLAINS THE IMPORTANCE OF INSTALLING CORRECT ENCLOSURES IN EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERES…

Assurance with ATEX protection

ince 2003, the European Directive states that it is compulsory to use ATEX certified enclosures and equipment in potentially explosive areas. This is in line with the Dangerous Substances and Explosives Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR), which places duties on employers to eliminate or control the risks from explosive atmospheres in the workplace. However, explosive atmospheres aren’t as clear cut as some may think, and installing the correct enclosures is key to preventing sources of ignition and reducing risk. Explosive atmospheres can be caused by flammable gases, mists or vapours, or by combustible dusts. If there is enough of the substance, mixed with the air, then all it needs is a source of ignition to cause an explosion. Environments at risk need to assess the equipment in place to prevent risks and ATEX enclosures, cable glands and push-button devices can help greatly in this. Though many hazardous areas are caused by vapours, this is not the

44 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

“Installing the correct enclosures is key to preventing sources of ignition and reducing risk.”

only way a potentially explosive atmosphere can arise. Where fine powders are part of the production process, the risk can be equally high and, if ignition does occur, the resultant explosion can be huge. If suspended in air, as a dust cloud, fine powder can be ignited by the presence of an ignition source. This type of dust cloud poses an explosion risk, especially in a confined environment. In 1982, a custard factory in England had a small fire. However, all the custard powder dust that had gathered in the rafters started wafting around in the roof space and became ignited, blowing the roof off the entire factory.

ASSESSMENT So what should employers and those responsible for buildings consider when it comes to control panels and electrical equipment housed in a potentially explosive environment? In each case, a risk assessment should identify what hazards exist, and the next steps in managing these conditions. The use of ATEX compliant products within such environments is one of the ways of reducing the likelihood of ignition and the danger of an explosion. Protecting cabling systems and high risk installations via enclosures is crucial. Most suppliers, including HellermannTyton, offer a choice of materials, including mild and stainless steel which can provide flexibility of choice according to the

environment conditions. Durable enclosures that comply with DSEAR will also guarantee to meet extreme heats and protect systems from igniting. High dust protection is also essential within wall mounting enclosures because substances, as demonstrated by the custard factory case, can rise and settle in high and out-of-reach areas. It is also an advantage if enclosures offer inclusive features such as a back plate and wall brackets. In the case of the HellermannTyton ATEX range, the wall brackets come as standard and fit into 4 x M8 rivet holes on the outside of the enclosure. This results in the integrity of the enclosure being maintained and protected, as it doesn’t have to be opened and exposed, thanks to the unique back plate design. However, it is highly important to remember that, although ATEX enclosures comply with all the IEC directives, each requires a certificate of conformity once a modification has been made. This must be supplied by the company or the person making the modification, and any installation needs to be assessed to meet the requirements of the atmosphere. HellermannTyton offers a range of enclosure solutions for general installation, contracting and the panel building industry. In its ATEX range, five sizes are available in mild steel RAL 7035 and in stainless steel, upon request. T: (NI) 028 9077 5005 or (RoI) 01 626 8267 W: www.hellermanntyton.co.uk

www.elecmagazine.com

NORTH WEST

Electrical trade event 11 JUNE 2015 - 3pm - 9pm EVERGLADES HOTEL DERRY/LONDONDERRY

BRAND NEW EVENT FOR THE NORTH WEST

FREE TO ATTEND - REGISTER NOW AT WWW.ELECMAGAZINE.COM or T: 028 9261 2990 FOLLOW US ON

SHOW PREVIEW INSIDE

NORTH WEST

Electrical trade event

SHOW GUIDE

11 JUNE 2015 EVERGLADES HOTEL DERRY/LONDONDERRY

BRAND NEW EVENT FOR THE NORTH WEST

11 JUNE 2015 NORTH WEST

Electrical trade event 11 JUNE 2015

EVERGLADES HOTEL DERRY/LONDONDERRY

ONE DAY EVENT 3PM-9pm

Register now and secure your place for this must-attend event for anyone involved in the electrical industry… If you are keen to keep up with the latest developments in the electrical industry then the North West Electrical Trade Event is the perfect place for you. This one-day event takes place at the Everglades Hotel in DerryLondonderry on June 11 and is the perfect place for anyone interested in the electrical industry, including electrical contractors, consultants and wholesalers as well as architects, specifiers, purchasing managers, maintenance managers and public sector representatives. Backed by the leading manufacturers in the industry, visitors have the opportunity to find out about the latest electrical solutions for both new build and retrofit projects, gain a wealth of new information and enjoy a range of networking opportunities - all under one roof.

pre-register THE FASTEST WAY TO PRE-REGISTER IS ON OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.ELECMAGazine.COM YOU CAN ALSO E-MAIL GEMMA@KMPLTD.CO.UK OR TELEPHONE 028 9261 2990 REGARDLESS OF YOUR CHOICE, A BADGE WILL BE WAITING FOR YOU AT THE REGISTRATION DESK. DON’T FORGET, IF YOU DON’T PRE-REGISTER YOU CAN STILL COME ALONG – SIMPLY FILL IN A FEW DETAILS AT THE REGISTRATION DESK.

NORTH WEST electrical 46 | TO VISIT THE DERRY/L’DERRY TRADE EVENT - LOG ONTO WWW.ELECMAGAZINE.COM OR T: +44 (0)28 9261 2990

NORTH WEST

SHOW GUIDE

Electrical trade event

Keep up-to-date with the latest news on the show and new exhibitors at

www.elecmagazine.com

opening times

11 JUNE 2015 EVERGLADES HOTEL DERRY/LONDONDERRY

THURS 11 June 3PM - 9pm Everglades Hotel Derry/Londonderry

Specialist electrical supplies

TRADE EVENT Exhibitors* INCLUDE

FREE UKAS APPROVED CALIBRATION

Many prizes, offers & Discounts

* Exhibitors correct at the time of going to press.

Don’t Miss… This brand new event for the North West gives visitors the chance to get up-todate with the latest innovations and take advantage of opportunities such as:

• Meet manufacturer representatives • Book supplier training sessions • UKAS approved calibration for multimeters and clamp meters

FREE BUFFET & Parking

• • • •

Tool demonstrations Specialist electrical supplies Latest product launches Updates on new regulations

FREE gift for every visitor

trade event FOLLOW US ON:

TO VISIT THE DERRY/L’DERRY TRADE EVENT - LOG ONTO WWW.ELECMAGAZINE.COM OR T: +44 (0)28 9261 2990 | 47

NORTH WEST

Electrical trade event

SHOW GUIDE

11 JUNE 2015 EVERGLADES HOTEL DERRY/LONDONDERRY

A-Z EXHIBITORS LIST YOUR INDISPENSIBLE GUIDE TO ALL THE EXHIBITORS AT THIS YEAR’S NORTH WEST ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT…

AICO LTD STAND 10

CK Tools Stand 11

DRAPER TOOLS LTD STAND 9

Mile End Business Park, Maesbury Road,

Carl Kammerling International Ltd, Glanydon

Hursley Road, Chandler’s Ford, Hampshire,

Oswestry, Shropshire, SY10 8NN T: (NI) 01691 664100 or

(RoI) 0044 1691 664100

W: www.aico.co.uk

Industrial Estate, Pwllheli, LL53 5LH W: www.ck-tools.com Products: CK Tools has been at the

SO53 1YF T: (NI) 023 8026 6355 or

(RoI) 0044 23 8026 6355

W: www.drapertools.com

Products: Manufacturer of market-leading

forefront of hand tool manufacturing for over

Products: Specialist tools for the electrical

domestic smoke alarms, heat alarms and

100 years, producing high quality tools that

trade.

Carbon Monoxide alarms.

meet the most demanding needs of trade professionals, including specific tools for electricians.

Aurora Stand 8

T: Mervyn Knox, Area Sales Manager NI on

Unit 23 North Park, North Road, Finglas, Dublin 11

00353 83 420 6847

CHRONOTHERM STAND 33

(RoI) 01 6968028 or 083 420 6847

Unit E2, Clonlara Road, Baldonnell Business

T: (NI) 00353 1 6968028 or

E: des.duignan@auroralighting.com or andrea.duignan@auroralighting.com W: www.auroralighting.com Products: With experience across the four

HAGER LTD STAND 26

Park, Dublin 22 T: (NI) 00353 1 410 5756 or

(NI) 0796 8147 444 or

(RoI) 0044 796 8147 444

W: www.hager.ie and services for electrical installations

Products: Leading supplier of solutions in residential, commercial and industrial buildings.

(RoI|) 01 410 5756

elements of lighting – power, control, lamps

W: www.chronotherm.ie

and luminaires - Aurora expertly engineers,

Products: Heating control equipment

designs and manufactures lighting solutions,

distributor, specialising in wired and wireless

EJ Harper & Co Stand 18

including a range of energy-saving, smart

solutions.

34 Montgomery Road, Belfast, BT6 9HL

LEDs that keep return on investment firmly

T: (RoI) 048 9079 2155 or

in mind.

(NI) 028 9079 2155

W: www.cablespecialists.co.uk Products: Established in 1974, shortly

BLUESKY PENSIONS UK LTD STAND 20 PO Box 128, White Oak Square, Swanley, Kent, BR8 9BJ T: (NI) 0333 321 8208 W: www.blueskypensions.uk Products: Bluesky Pensions UK provides

CORE ELECTRICAL (NI) LTD STANDS 1 & 2

before the emergence of the specialist cable market as it is known, Harpers became the first Belfast-based company to introduce a

17b Goldenbridge Industrial Estate,

large variety of screened and flexible control

Tyrconnell Road, Inchicore, Dublin 8

cables to suit customers’ requirements

T: (NI) 00353 1 453 7033 or

(RoI) 01 453 7033

W: www.coreelectrical.ie

both in construction and in length. To this day, the company continues to supply from an even wider range of cables for every conceivable application. Ranging from

a range of workplace pension services to

Products: Cable management and power

power distribution to data transmission,

employers, trustees and consultants in the

distribution in the modern commercial

Harpers can provide a suitable cable for your

electrical sector across the UK.

environment.

business requirements.

48 | TO VISIT THE DERRY/L’DERRY TRADE EVENT - LOG ONTO WWW.ELECMAGAZINE.COM OR T: +44 (0)28 9261 2990

NORTH WEST

SHOW GUIDE

Electrical trade event

A-Z EXHIBITORS LIST HEALTH & SAFETY WORKS NI STAND 13 Longbridge House, 16-24 Waring Street, Belfast, BT1 2DX

OMAK AGENCIES LTD Unit C6, Dundonald Enterprise Park, Carrowreagh Road, Dundonald, Belfast,

W: www.healthandsafetyworksni.gov.uk

BT16 1QT

Products: The small business advisory

T: (NI) 028 9055 0202 or

for Northern Ireland, which will help you draw up your health and safety policy, risk assessments and methods statements.

(RoI) 048 9055 0202

W: www.omakagencies.com Products: Leading distributor of energysaving lighting to the electrical wholesale trade in Northern Ireland.

HELLERMANNTYTON LTD STAND 3 Units 1 & 2, Graham Industrial Park, Dargan Crescent, Belfast, BT3 9LP

PRINCIPAL LIGHTING LTD

T: (NI) 028 90 775 005 or

STAND 32

(RoI) 01 626 8267

W: www.hellermanntyton.co.uk Products: Leading cable management

THURS 11 June 3PM - 9pm Everglades Hotel Derry/Londonderry

STAND 30

T: (NI) 0300 020 0030

service of the Health & Safety Executive

opening times

11 JUNE 2015 EVERGLADES HOTEL DERRY/LONDONDERRY

Unit 21, West Moor Park Network Centre, Yorkshire Way, Armthorpe, Doncaster,

manufacturer of products for fastening,

DN3 3GW

fixing, identifying and protecting cables and

T: (NI) 01302 762160 or

their connecting components.

(RoI) 0044 1302 762160

W: www.plighting.co.uk

pre-register THE FASTEST WAY TO PREREGISTER IS ON OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.ELECMAGazine.COM YOU CAN ALSO E-MAIL GEMMA@KMPLTD.CO.UK OR TELEPHONE 028 9261 2990 REGARDLESS OF YOUR CHOICE, A BADGE WILL BE WAITING FOR YOU AT THE REGISTRATION DESK. DON’T FORGET, IF YOU DON’T PRE-REGISTER YOU CAN STILL COME ALONG – SIMPLY FILL IN A FEW DETAILS AT THE REGISTRATION DESK.

Products: Provides high quality, energysaving, high performance lighting, including

JOINT INDUSTRY BOARD (JIB) STAND 21

specification grade luminaires for interior and exterior applications.

PO Box 127, Swanley, Kent, BR8 9BH T: (NI) 03333 218 230 W: www.jib.org.ukProducts: Sets the standards for employment, welfare, grading and apprentice training in the electrical

SIGNS EXPRESS

contracting industry.

STAND 23 Unit 14, Abbey Business Park, Old Mill Drive, Newtownabbey, Co Antrim, BT36 7EE

MEGGER LTD STAND 19

T: (NI) 028 9086 5647 or

Archcliffe Road, Dover, Kent, SO2 101

W: www.signsexpress.co.uk

T: (NI) 01304 502101 or

Products: Signs and graphics from the UK’s

(RoI) 0044 1304 502101

(RoI) 048 9086 5647

largest sign company, with over 25 years’

W: www.megger.com Products: Manufacturer of electronic test

experience.

equipment and measuring instruments for electrical power applications.

turn over for 14 more pages on what you will find at the inaugural north west electrical trade event

EXHIBITORS CORRECT AT TIME OF GOING TO PRESS.

TO VISIT THE DERRY/L’DERRY TRADE EVENT - LOG ONTO WWW.ELECMAGAZINE.COM OR T: +44 (0)28 9261 2990 | 49

NORTH WEST

SHOW GUIDE

Electrical trade event 11 JUNE 2015 EVERGLADES HOTEL DERRY/LONDONDERRY

aurora - stand 8 STAND CONTACT: des duignan

Delivering on both quality and safety, Aurora’s Des Duignan outlines the many benefits of the new Enlite LED range…

Enlite gets top marks for performance, quality and price

ith value-driven quality products available to suit just about every application, LED is now competitive on most jobs. Take the universally popular downlighter as a good example. A LED lamp and luminaire still cost a fraction more than the halogen equivalent but, by choosing a 5W LED over a 50W halogen, your energy-savvy customers save 90% on their lighting bills. The cost of LED continues to fall, payback is typically less than two years, and the lamp will last anywhere between two years and a decade. These new mass-market LED products, including Enlite from Aurora, also deliver on quality of light as well as safety. For 2015, lots of new products have been added to Aurora’s Enlite brand of valuedriven, competitively priced LED lamps and luminaires. Enlite lighting essentials are manufactured

to an extremely high quality, meaning safety and quality needn’t be sacrificed. The product features two new technologies that are big on performance, high on quality and low on price. EnFiniti™ lenses, included in the design of E8™ and ICE™ products, are edge-to-edge multifaceted polycarbonate lenses that allow for a low glare, halogenlike appearance. ThermoTec™ technology utilises a combination of highly efficient LED light source, aluminium heatsinking and thermoplastic material for longer life and consistent performance.

ICE™ lamps New and unique to Enlite is the ICE range of 5W GU10 and MR16 lamps. These deliver up to an impressive 102 lumens per watt and are direct replacements for halogen. ICE lamps deliver up to 520 lumens and are available in both dimmable and non-dimmable options – that’s an increase of up to 40% light output while energy consumption is reduced by 90%. The ICE range is optimum for use in both new and retrofit installations. ICE lamps also incorporate ThermoTec technology.

Helius™ range of floodlights The Helius range of floodlights is invaluable for both residential and commercial applications. Their slim profile and clean black finish make them as unobtrusive as possible, while their durable high-quality paint minimises the impact of corrosion, and tempered glass provides excellent protection. The HeliusPIR range of floodlights is ideal for residential applications and commercial security requirements. Their adjustable PIR

“The cost of LED continues to fall, payback is typically less than two years, and the lamp will last anywhere between two years and a decade.” sensing head allows for direct positioning to ensure optimum motion detection. Lighting fields are achieved up to 12m and within a range of 120 degrees for 10W while it’s 180 degrees for 30W and 50W.

Orbital™ bulkhead range The Orbital bulkhead range is ideal for any typical bulkhead application. Engineered from a tough polycarbonate body, all products in the range are vandal resistant and designed to last. The range comprises both Round and Eyelid styles which can be wall or ceiling mounted. Find out more about the new range of products in the second edition of the Enlite catalogue.

T: (NI) 00353 1 6968028 or 00353 83 420 6847 (RoI) 01 6968028 or 083 420 6847 E: des.duignan@auroralighting.com or andrea.duignan@auroralighting.com W: www.auroralighting.com

TO VISIT THE DERRY/L’DERRY TRADE EVENT - LOG ONTO WWW.ELECMAGAZINE.COM OR T: +44 (0)28 9261 2990 | 51

NORTH WEST

SHOW GUIDE

Electrical trade event 11 JUNE 2015 EVERGLADES HOTEL DERRY/LONDONDERRY

bluesky - stand 20 STAND CONTACT: ALICE MOLONEY

BLUESKY PENSIONS UK PROVIDES A RANGE OF WORKPLACE PENSION SERVICES TO EMPLOYERS, TRUSTEES AND CONSULTANTS ACROSS THE UK…

The non-profit auto enrolment MasterTrust

y law, all employers in the UK have to automatically enrol their employees into a qualifying workplace pension scheme. BlueSky administers and manages the BlueSky Pension Scheme, a non-profit arrangement, which is one of the largest MasterTrusts in the UK. Any employer is able to join this Trust-based, multiple employer, auto enrolment qualifying workplace pension scheme. No fees or commissions are paid to any party, and BlueSky welcomes any employer in the UK to benefit from its economies of scale, high levels of governance and advanced investment offering, which includes the latest in pension developments. The scheme has a governed structure, including a Trustee Board, investment consultant, independent chairman and investment strategist, who work alongside teams of administrators (all using the latest administration system and undertaking professional pensions’ qualifications). All employers in the UK must comply with Auto Enrolment legislation and have been assigned a ‘Staging Date’ (further information on staging dates can be found in the Auto Enrolment section of the BlueSky website). To date, this has only

affected the larger and medium employers, but since January 2015, it also affects employers with under 58 employees. To help guide employers through the process, the experts from BlueSky advise employers to do the following: • • • • • • • •

Nominate a contact Know your staging date Prepare a plan Review pension arrangements Check process and software Know your workforce Communicate with staff Arrange a Declaration of Compliance with the Pensions Regulator.

The secret to successful compliance is preparation and keeping the process simple. The key to this, according to the experts from BlueSky, is to assess payroll processes and existing pension arrangements, and to start investigations six months before your staging date. To help it all run smoothly, BlueSky has developed a complete Real Time Auto Enrolment (RAE) system, which is fully compliant. This system assesses and communicates with all employees, and includes online opt in and out tools. The

package sits alongside the administration of any arrangement (TPA, MasterTrust etc), and fees are based on the number of employees working for each employer.

CRYSTAL DRAWDOWN The requirement for members retiring from a Defined Contribution (DC) scheme to take an annuity (pension) from their fund will be relaxed from April. In light of this, BlueSky has recently launched Crystal Drawdown - the new choice for pension scheme members, replacing outdated and poor value annuity options at retirement. With the requirements for greater flexibility and the Guidance Guarantee in mind, Crystal Drawdown will be available to any employer in the UK who can participate in the Crystal Trust - a single solution, giving peace of mind that employees can benefit from a ground-breaking retirement income strategy which is designed, managed and administered by leaders in the UK pensions market.

T: (NI) 0333 321 8208 E: info@blueskypensions.co.uk W: www.blueskypensions.uk

TO VISIT THE DERRY/L’DERRY TRADE EVENT - LOG ONTO WWW.ELECMAGAZINE.COM OR T: +44 (0)28 9261 2990 | 53

invicta 3 Easy fit panelboards Our invicta 3 Panelboards are the easiest panelboards to fit, the pan assembly, door and front cover can all be removed to make the product lighter when fixing to the wall. Keyhole slots and a central fifth keyhole fixing point make fitting and levelling the board even simpler. In addition both the top and bottom gland plates are removable, so that the installer can prepare cable entries away from the board for convenience and to help prevent ingress of swarf and dust.

Glazed door

The glazed door allows devices to be viewed without opening the door.

Key hole fixing point

The key hole fixing points aid the installer when fitting the board to the wall, the central 5th keyhole makes levelling easier.

Pre-wired meter packs

Installer only has to fit the packs into the board. All internal wiring is included.

STAND

For further information contact: Mervyn Knox - Area Sales Manager T: +44 (0) 7968 147444 or Dublin +353 (0)1 883 5844 or David Henry, Sales Engineer T: +44 (0) 7931 431622

NORTH WEST ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT

Our invicta 3 panelboard range is the most aesthetically pleasing available on the market. It is one of the few boards available that has a glazed door, which is important not only aesthetically, but also because an ordinary person as defined by the 17th edition can view the board while it is still locked.

www.hager.ie

A wide range of accessories make the panelboards easy to adapt for onsite build and tailored solutions. These accessories include key lock, extension boxes, meter packs and DIN rail boxes.

NORTH WEST

SHOW GUIDE

Electrical trade event 11 JUNE 2015 EVERGLADES HOTEL DERRY/LONDONDERRY

Megger - Stand 19 STAND CONTACT: SANDY THOMPSON

Take a closer look at the latest test equipment that meets 17th Edition Third Amendments and find out about the new Megger App…

Testing, testing…

egger’s impressive range of test equipment will be on show at this year’s North West Electrical Trade

Show. Products on display will include the new MFT1735 multifunction installation testers which incorporate comprehensive facilities for earth electrode resistance measurements and the PAT100 range of portable appliance testers that are ideal for carrying low to medium volume testing in offices, shops, business units and similar environments. The MFT1735 is the latest addition to Megger’s MFT1700 range of multifunction installation testers. The new model provides a comprehensive set of test functions for testing installations in line with the 17th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations and when used in conjunction with the appropriate accessories, also allows users to carry out two-pole, threepole, stakeless and ART earth electrode resistance measurements. This means that the MFT1735 is well suited for the testing of earth electrodes in the TT installations used for certain vehicle charging points, for verification of earthing performance in lightning protection systems and for checking the earth systems used in wind turbine and other renewable power installations.

The PAT100s have been designed with hardened, scratchproof glass to protect the display. They have also been equipped with rubber armouring for the cases, making them safe to use for both experienced users and those in training. Visitors to the show will be able to see the entire range of testers – which are currently available in three models – PAT120, PAT150 and PAT150R. All are complemented by a new smartphone/tablet App, available for Apple and Android devices. The App provides a concise guide to PAT testing including risk assessment, determining retest frequency and cable calculations for extension leads. According to Megger, PAT120 is a costeffective option that provides all of the functions needed to carry out tests on the vast majority of commonly encountered portable appliances. It features pre-programmed test groups with fixed pass/fail limits for testing Class I and Class II appliances as well as extension and power leads. The use of test groups means that the instruments carry out the correct sequence of tests automatically, with a minimum of operator intervention. Not only does this simplify testing, it also reduces testing time and guards against errors. For users who need to test a wider range of portable and fixed equipment, the PAT150 offers all of the functions of the PAT120 plus

several others – additional functions include tests for 10 mA and 30 mA portable RCDs and separate tests for continuity, insulation, leakage and SELV equipment, all of which can be accessed rapidly via the quick-test button. With the PAT150, mains-powered leakage testing is also supported and livecircuit measurement is available for testing the mains supply and socket polarity as well as for measuring voltages up to 300 V ac. Experienced users can quickly and easily adjust test group pass limits and test durations to suit special requirements, while resistance of the bonding leads can be nulled to minimise measurement errors. Also on show will be Megger’s latest range of accessory products like MPU690 proving units for use with two-pole voltage testers, PSI410 phase sequence indicators and MST210 socket testers. Throughout the exhibition, experts from Megger will be on hand to provide advice on the selection and use of portable test equipment and to answer questions relating to visitors’ own test and measurement applications.

T: (NI) 01304 502101 or (RoI): 0044 1304 502101 W: www.megger.com

TO VISIT THE DERRY/L’DERRY TRADE EVENT - LOG ONTO WWW.ELECMAGAZINE.COM OR T: +44 (0)28 9261 2990 | 57

Harpers Have it...

Overall Achievement Award

Varilight...

Electrical accessories and dimmers

Smartwares...

Byron wired and wireless chimes

ELD... Stiebel Eltron...

Cable Specialists...

LED fittings, tapes and controllers Hot, cold and boiling water on tap

Cable Specialists YY, SY, LIYCY, H03, H05 flexibles, H07 single and multicore rubbers, silicone and FEP high temperature cables, CAT5E, CAT6, CAT6A and fibre optic cables.

Unit 1, Montgomery Business Park, 34 Montgomery Road, Belfast T: 028 9079 2155 - F: 028 9079 9031 www.cablespecialists.co.uk

NORTH WEST

SHOW GUIDE

Electrical trade event 11 JUNE 2015 EVERGLADES HOTEL DERRY/LONDONDERRY

Core electrical distributors (NI) Limited - STANDS 1-2 Stand contact: Adrian McGarrity

Plug-and-play systems from Core Electrical

ontractors and consultants wanting to utilise the latest labour-saving products should speak to Core Electrical Distributors (NI) Limited. The company has teamed up with five of the leading manufacturers it represents to showcase its modular wiring solutions that are making a significant difference to a wide range of commercial projects. Core Electrical will be showcasing the plugand-play products from Wieland BIT, CMD, Marshall-Tufflex, Flexicon and P4 Emergency Lighting that offer a modular wiring solutions to reduce labour on-site. Core Electrical also offer a CAD designed modular wiring system along with site project support service. CMD Limited creates solutions to meet the challenges of integrating underfloor busbar, floor boxes and office desk power to commercial environments while Wieland BIT has set the worldwide industry standard in modular wiring and pluggable technology.

Also on show will be Marshall-Tufflex’s new range of top quality aluminium trunking for the NI schools market and the P4 standalone emergency lighting range. Adrian McGarrity, NI Director, said, “We can provide modular solutions for power and lighting or for specific lighting controls using KNX or Dali. The beauty is that we provide the system in kit form, all specifically labelled to correspond with the Cad design drawings. This system eradicates the problem of over ordering and waste material on site, for example. All the components are factory type tested, which militate against human error while terminating and the Wieland cables and connection plugs are manufactured against the modular wiring design. “This all adds to around 30% labour saving, which can make a significant difference when projects are required to be completed on time and within budget. “Our Partner P4, have recently secured the

emergency lighting and modular wiring system for Omagh Hospital with the Dowds Group. Core’s role will be to support this major project through local technical support and Logistics from our Belfast depot. We are hoping to build on this success by meeting more like-minded contractors and consultants who are willing to embrace the benefits of modular systems.”

T: Adrian McGarrity on 0779 8633788 E: amcgarrity@coreelectrical.com W: www.coreelectrical.com

think smart - wire smart

save 30% labour Projector

LCM Lighting Control Module

g g Control T LCM T Lighting

MDB Master Distribution Box

DB Distribution Board

Presence Detector

EDUCATION • HEALTH • COMMERCIAL •RETAIL class 2

Daylight Sensor

MODULAR Wiring systems • Project Design • Installation Training

class

lass • Project Management 1 • Quick and Easy to Install

class

3 EXT Extender Cable

sch

ool

Power/Data Dado ra

CORE ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTORS (NI) LIMITED T: +44 (0)28 9002 0066 - E: amcgarrity@coreelectrical.com www.coreelectrical.com

TO VISIT THE DERRY/L’DERRY TRADE EVENT - LOG ONTO WWW.ELECMAGAZINE.COM OR T: +44 (0)28 9261 2990 | 59

NORTH WEST

Electrical trade event

SHOW GUIDE

11 JUNE 2015 EVERGLADES HOTEL DERRY/LONDONDERRY

draper tools - STAND 9 STAND CONTACT: George McCague

Draper launches onestop-shop screwdriver kit

he newly launched VDE interchangeable screwdriver kit from Draper Tools is suitable for working on live circuits up to 1KV (1000V) AC and 1.5K (1500V) DC. All screwdrivers conform to EN60900 regulations and are individually tested to 10,000V. With blades made from SVCM (Silicone Vanadium Chrome Magnesium) steel, hardened and tempered with a phosphate black finish, the new set is perfectly designed for precise electrical installations. One of the main advantages of the kit is its precision torque control, which is crucial when working on switchgear and consumer units and also helps alleviate the risk of damaging terminals, arcing circuits or hot spotting. Most importantly, it prevents under or over-tightening terminal screws and is fully compliant with the latest wiring regulations. With a comfortable two-tone soft grip handle, this screwdriver set is 100% made for frequent, professional use. Not only does the handle prevent hands from slipping, it’s also resistant to chemicals, oils and most solvents. Each calibrated torque screwdriver ensures precise, easy adjustment between 1.0– 5.0Nm. The VDE interchangeable blades provide fast and easy lock and release into the torque screwdriver, ensuring a safe and secure connection. This comprehensive kit contains a torque screwdriver, calibration certificate, eight interchangeable blades and a storage roll for secure transportation. Quote stock number 65372 when ordering.

T: (NI) 023 8049 4333 or (RoI) 0044 23 8049 4333 W: www.drapertools.com

The new VDE screwdriver kit is an invaluable addition to the electrician’s tool box

60 | TO VISIT THE DERRY/L’DERRY TRADE EVENT - LOG ONTO WWW.ELECMAGAZINE.COM OR T: +44 (0)28 9261 2990

NORTH WEST

SHOW GUIDE

Electrical trade event 11 JUNE 2015 EVERGLADES HOTEL DERRY/LONDONDERRY

Hellermanntyton - stand 3 STAND CONTACT: CHRIS EDWARDS

HellermannTyton shines bright

able management specialist, HellermannTyton, has launched its innovative SpotClip product in the UK - a cost-effective, easy-fit, energy-saving solution for mounting downlights. SpotClip dramatically reduces the risk of overheating and heat build-up through its unique four-leg ceiling brace design, addressing the safety concerns of installing thermal insulation over downlight fittings that are currently available. Many installers are not aware that the majority of fire-rated downlights cannot be covered with thermal insulation without compromising the airflow around the light fitting. Furthermore, there are beliefs that installing LED lamps into standard downlighter fixings means that the lamp fitting can be covered with insulation. Whilst LED lamps are cool to the touch, the electronics installed inside overheat, leading

to a shorter lamp life and a potential fire risk. Part L of the current Building Regulations requires continuity of insulation to be maintained in order to increase the energy efficiency of the building. Typically, the depth of blanket type insulation is 270mm. SpotClip is the ideal cost-effective solution, with a four-leg brace design that can be fitted from above or below the ceiling and allows the fitting to be covered with insulation. The SpotClip works by fixing the supply cable to the cable clip. SpotClip is then fitted by squeezing the mounting legs together and inserting it into the pre-cut hole in the ceiling. SpotClip then secures on the ceiling and locks into the ceiling material with small spikes. The downlight fitting can be installed with the assurance that SpotClip is safely

supporting the thermal insulation above, keeping combustible material away, offering airflow for heat dissipation from the lamp and maintaining the integrity of the thermal insulation.

T: (NI) 028 9077 5005 or (RoI) 01 626 8267 W: www.hellermanntyton.co.uk

TO VISIT THE DERRY/Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;DERRY TRADE EVENT - LOG ONTO WWW.ELECMAGAZINE.COM OR T: +44 (0)28 9261 2990 | 61

NORTH WEST

Electrical trade event

SHOW GUIDE

11 JUNE 2015 EVERGLADES HOTEL DERRY/LONDONDERRY

Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) - Stand 21 STAND CONTACT: ANDY REAKES

Reap the benefits of ECS

he Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) will be on stand 21 at the forthcoming North West Trade Event where you’ll be able to find out more about the scheme and its benefits, how to apply and the new ‘MyECS’ system to help manage your card. ECS is also offering a free gift for all existing ECS cardholders - so if you have an ECS card, bring it to our stand and show it to a member of the team to claim your prize! If you’re interested in applying for a card and have worked in the industry for many years, but don’t have the industry apprenticeship or Level 3 NVQ qualification, there’s now a way you can be assessed to help apply for your gold card. The JIB Mature Candidate Assessment is a system that assesses your existing skills and experience, identifies any gaps, then specifies any additional training or

assessments you might need to undertake in order to gain NVQ3 status. In many cases, this just means completing the AM2 assessment after a professional discussion with an assessor. At the show you’ll be able to find out more about this process and what’s involved. Thousands of electrical professionals are proud to hold an ECS card to show their hard-earned qualifications at work and on site. It’s instantly recognisable within the electrotechnical industry and lets you demonstrate your skills to others; from employers and clients to business contacts and colleagues. Much more than just a health and safety card, the ECS card displays your qualifications and main electrical occupation,

shows you have been H&S assessed, and proves your identity on site. Electricians are increasingly showing their card to differentiate themselves from people without the industry-recognised skills and qualifications. You’ve spent time gaining your skills – so get an ECS card and show it with pride! W: www.ecscard.org.uk

62 | TO VISIT THE DERRY/L’DERRY TRADE EVENT - LOG ONTO WWW.ELECMAGAZINE.COM OR T: +44 (0)28 9261 2990

NORTH WEST

SHOW GUIDE

Electrical trade event 11 JUNE 2015 EVERGLADES HOTEL DERRY/LONDONDERRY

OMAK AGENCIES STAND 30

Signs Express STAND 23

STAND CONTACT: Bill Hutchison

Stand contact: Richard McGonigle

Omak to launch new LED range

Vehicle Graphics Specialists and Sign Makers in Derry

mak Agencies, will be showcasing the company’s extensive range of energy- saving lighting at Stand 30. The leading distributor will launch a new prestige range of floodlights using the latest technology and a new range of high-end low-energy lights for shop fittings. The Kamo-Lite range available from Omak Agencies includes the LED commercial scoop fitting and the Prestige floodlight range. This is part of the company’s wider product range which can be used to address lighting solutions for a range of environments including home, offices, shops, schools, restaurants, hotels, factories, public areas, sports arenas and residential areas.

lectrical contractors wanting to give their vechicles a facelift should speak to the team from Signs Express. When you are out on the road, your van, car or lorry becomes a moving advertisement for your business and, as specialists in vehicle graphics, Signs Express can ensure the finish looks highly professional and suitably eye-catching. This is just one aspect of the services provided by Signs Express, with the company also able to supply exterior signs, interior signs, window graphics, exhibition displays, PVC banners, labels and stickers, health and safety signs. The company covers areas in and around Derry including Donegal, Limavady, Maghera and Coleraine.

T: (NI) 028 9055 0202 or (RoI) 048 9055 0202 W: www.omakagencies.com

T: (NI) 028 7126 5577 or (RoI) 048 7126 5577 W: www.signsexpress.co.uk/derry

AGENTS FOR

Kamo-Lite

Vehicle Graphics Specialists and Sign Makers

ENERGY SAVING LIGHTING

THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN LED FLOODLIGHTS

Visit us on… STAND

… to see the prestigious range of

Kamo-Lite Commercial Floodlights Tel: (028) 9055 0202

www.omakagencies.com FOLLOW US ON:

Signs Express Derry, Unit 6 Diamond Park, Pennyburn Industrial Estate, Derry/Londonderry, BT48 0LU

Tel: 028 7126 5577 www.signsexpress.co.uk/derry

TO VISIT THE DERRY/L’DERRY TRADE EVENT - LOG ONTO WWW.ELECMAGAZINE.COM OR T: +44 (0)28 9261 2990 | 63

training

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

The CIRI Registration Board.

It’s voluntary right now, but the Construction Industry Register Ireland (CIRI) is set to become mandatory. Chairman Hank Fogarty explains the benefits of registering and why firms should be thinking about it now rather than later…

CIRI – are you signed up?

ince its establishment in April 2014, over 700 companies have signed up to the Construction Industry Register Ireland (CIRI). The benefits of CIRI have been well documented; companies who register are proclaiming their competency and underlining their expertise in delivering quality services to the industry, while at the same time participating in a new way of operating within the Irish construction sector. The register - which is currently voluntary but is set to become statutory within 12 months - requires construction companies, sole traders and builders to comply with the building regulations and an industry code of ethics. To qualify, firms must prove they are tax compliant and they must also meet the health and safety regulations relating to the construction industry. Companies must also commit to undertaking continuous professional development and attend a CIRI induction course. “People seem to accept that regulation is a good thing and that there should be bars to entry to our industry,” explained Hank Fogarty, Chairman of CIRI. “The only possibly negative reaction I would expect from firms is in relation to CPD requirements, but education has to be a big part of it. It’s essential that we improve the efficiency of the industry. “ So far, only 32 electrical and mechanical companies have signed up. “All of the large Irish electrical companies

64 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

have signed up but a relatively small percentage of the small to medium ones have registered,” added Hank. These firms are being encouraged to begin the process now rather than waiting until it becomes mandatory. Hank said, “They are the companies who will be signing the ancillary certs so the sooner they understand the process and get up to speed with it the better it’ll be for them. We think that by the end of this year, any meaningful player in the sector will be on it or will have isolated themselves by their absence.” So how does a firm go about registering? The first port of call is the CIRI website. “The application form is available online. The process takes longer than people imagine, as certain criteria must be met. A safety statement and a tax certificate must be provided. Firms must prove that they are registered for VAT and they must have a minimum level of insurance.” Currently, over 1,400 people have commenced the process. “We’re finding that some firms are submitting their applications and they’re claiming a bit more of a project than they were actually involved in. The guy who hung the doors at Lansdowne Road could claim he was involved in the build. To counter this, we’re constantly revising the application form so we know a firm’s exact participation in a project.” Firms will need to re-register 12 months after their initial registration. If there are no

material changes to an organisation, the process won’t be as rigorous. After three years, a total review will be required. The biggest mistake that companies are making when undergoing the process is not attending their inductions. Hank said, “Until companies have their certificate of induction we can’t register them.” Firms are also falling down when it comes to describing projects they’ve been involved in. “Some companies find it very difficult to describe a project they’ve been involved in in terms that we can understand. An inability to articulate their skills and expertise is a problem so we’re sending these firms away to complete the form properly,” said Hank. Registering your firm on CIRI costs €600. According to Hank, design offices would like to have all their sub-contractors and contractors registered on the basis that it is evidence they have checked their competency. Hank concluded, “So already, pressure is coming on small firms to make sure they’re on the register or the architect won’t put them on their tender list. That’s going to be a huge influencing factor and that’s why firms need to register now or risk losing out on work going forward.” T: (RoI) 01 406 6094 or (NI) 00353 1 406 6094 W: www.ciri.ie

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

news

annual event once again returns to dublin venue…

Places still available for Electrical Industries Charity annual golf event

he Electrical Industries Charity is organising a day out for keen golfers at the Carlton House Hotel in Maynooth, Dublin on September 20-21 – providing players with the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the pros who played the course when the Irish Open was held there a few years ago. The much-loved electrical industry’s charity event moved to this venue for the first time last year and it proved so much of a success that it’s returning. Included in the offering are two rounds of golf – one on the O’Meara course on Sand the other on the Montgomerie course, as well as an evening meal in the clubhouse and overnight accommodation in the four-star Carlton House Hotel. The two courses offer a great test. Carlton House has hosted both the Irish Open

and Irish Seniors Open, so that should give you an idea of the quality of the venue and the course. The charity has negotiated a competitive rate, so this promises great value for money, and the opportunity to get together with industry colleagues, away from the pressures of work. All this is while also raising vital funds for the electrical industry’s dedicated charity. The event takes place on September 20-21, 2015 and while many who took part last year have already secured their place, there are still a number of places remaining for those who want to take part. To book your place, contact Gary at Bryan Somers Travel on (NI) 028 9751 1232 or (RoI) 048 9751 1232, quoting the Electrical Industries Charity Golf.

N.IRELAND BRANCH

Electrical Industries Charity Golf Event Sunday 20th & Monday 21st September 2015 Venue of previous Irish & Irish Seniors Opens, situated Maynooth, Dublin • • • • •

1 Night B&B Twin share at 4 star Carton House Hotel & Golf Club 2 Rounds of Golf Sun 20th Sept - O’Meara Course - 1pm onwards Sun 20th Sept - 2 course evening meal in the club house Mon 21st Sept - Montgomerie Course - 9am onwards

PRICE: Only £149 per person. Call Gary @ Bryan Somers Travel on 0044 (0)2897511232 to reserve your place mention ‘ELECTRICAL INDUSTRIES CHARITY GOLF’

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 65

Electrical magazine

66 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

CUSTOMERS MEET THE TEAM DURING HAMILTON LITESTAT’S FIRST ROAD TRIP TO IRELAND…

event

Noel Harper, EJ Harpers, (centre) in front of Hamilton Litestat’s MDV in Belfast.

Hamilton’s MDV roadshow lights up the Emerald Isle

amilton Litestat’s Mobile Demonstration Vehicle (MDV) has toured Ireland for the first time, giving trade customers the ideal opportunity to come and meet the Hamilton Mercury Controls team. The team visited venues across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, including stops at Kellihers Electrical, Waterford; MCK Electrical, Pouladuff; Trade Electrical, Limerick; Flaherty Markets, Galway and Castlebar; Clifford Electrical, Carraroe; EJ Harpers, Belfast and Richmond Electrical, Dublin. Gavin Williams, Hamilton’s Marketing Manager, said, “Since we unveiled our Mobile Demo Vehicle last year it has given electrical wholesaler staff, customers and clients the opportunity to see and experience first-hand Hamilton’s comprehensive, intelligent, easy-touse control solutions and our switch plate and socket collections.” Hamilton’s MDV gave customers the chance to judge for themselves just how easy Mercury lighting control and multi-room audio systems are to install, and its technical sales team were on hand throughout the tour to talk MDV visitors through all aspects of installing Hamilton’s Mercury systems and to answer any questions. Gavin explained, “With Hamilton, there is nothing stopping electrical contractors increasing business by suggesting their customers take the first steps to a ‘Smart Home’ by beginning with a ‘Smarter Home’. For details on Hamilton’s free training and development courses, and information on how to become an authorised Hamilton Mercury installer, contact Hamilton-Litestat or your nearest wholesaler. T: (NI) 01747 860088 or (RoI) 0044 1747 860088 E: info@hamilton-litestat.com W: www.hamilton-litestat.com

The impressive interior of the Hamilton Litestat Mobile Demonstration Van.

Hamilton Litestat’s MDV makes another stop.

Kellihers Electrical, Waterford, welcomes the Hamilton Litestat MDV.

www.elecmagazine.com

The Hamilton Litestat MDV at Flaherty Markets, Galway.

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 67

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

power sockets

Replaceable screw-outs are a welcome addition for outdoor power sockets, say the experts at Timeguard…

Knock on! I

f you never, ever get the cable knock-out wrong, we take our hats off to you. However, you may still like to know about - and could well benefit from - the latest refinement to Timeguard’s top-selling range of IP66 Weathersafe outdoor power sockets and switches that make a difference to those who do get the knock-out wrong from time to time. We’ve come to expect Timeguard to keep pushing forward with new ideas and refinements to its core Time, Light, Safety and Climate product ranges, and this season the R&D team’s focus is on the outdoor power range. Newcomers to the Timeguard family for summer 2015 have done away with old-school cable knock-outs and introduced replaceable M20 threaded screw-outs. So, if you do make a mistake, you can simply screw it back in. You won’t lose the unit’s impressive IP66 rating either, which is more than enough for even the British climate, and can get straight on with the job. In the past, your options after making a mistake were to wire a device in awkwardly, accept that its weatherproofing integrity was lost, or scrap it and buy another one. This simple addition of screw-outs, instead of knock-outs, will make your life a lot easier and reduce your costs. You might think that it is a pretty obvious feature for an outside socket, but changes like these cost a lot to develop, test and then introduce on

www.elecmagazine.com

“This simple addition of screwouts, instead of knockouts, will make your life a lot easier and reduce your costs.”

the production line, and various other manufacturers have not yet been willing to invest. One thing no-one else has been able to emulate is the superb appearance and ease-of-use of the Vision range. Timeguard’s mouldings allow for full-sized polycarbonate windows that stay clear for years, while its patented neoprene seals withstand opening and closing, time and time again, without compromising the IP66 rating when in use. The clear windows of the Weathersafe Vision models mean that users can see at a glance what the on/off status of an appliance plugged into an outdoor socket is, which is clearly an added safety benefit. Naturally, the option of opaque covers is offered as well. Another refinement to the new models is the improved and even smarter latching design for quicker and easier opening and closing of the IP66 lids, ideal when you’re in a hurry to get on with the job at hand. British Standard compliance is, of course, a given with Timeguard - in this case BS7288 and BS1363 for socket outlets incorporating residual current devices. Extra-fast action typically cuts the current in 40 milliseconds,

with a rated trip current of 30 mA. The new product options cover all your core requirements with single and double gang switched sockets, with neon on/off indicators, RCD sockets and fused spur RCDs.

IP68 CONNECTORS Also new this summer is a selection of IP68 outdoor power connectors designed to connect cable runs safely in outdoor installations. Ideal for extending cable runs when installing Weathersafe power sockets, the range includes in-line connectors, ‘T’ connector and junction box, supplied with various seal sizes for differing cable entry. The additional protection afforded by the IP68 rating means these connectors are tested to withstand continuous immersion and can be safely used outdoors at ground level. The new Weathersafe range features in the latest Timeguard catalogue, due out in June, and will be in wholesalers from the start of July. If you haven’t got your copy yet, email csc@timeguard.com or check out the specifications on the website at www.timeguard.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 69

MAC ELECTRICS ASSOCIATES

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

K ane Engineering Lt d . Leading LOCAL SUPPLIER OF: • HV Package Sub-Stations, including Cast Resin Transformers • Full range of LV Switchboards to IEC 61 439 standard • Power Metering & Monitoring Equipment • Power Factor Correction Equipment

Working in conjunction with MAC Electrics On Tannaghmore Primary School, Lurgan

T: 028 9181 4465 F: 028 9181 8900 E: info@kane-engineering.co.uk www.LowVoltageSwitchgear.com

70 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

ARD EASMUINN ROAD, DUNDALK

CALL (042) 9327855 / 9327854

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

MAC ELECTRICS LTD

Turn over to read about the three decades of success of this leading electrical contractor….

Mac Electrics celebrates 30th anniversary www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 71

MAC ELECTRICS ASSOCIATES

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

here ervice atters

DESIGN, INSTALLATION, SERVICE & MAINTENANCE OF: · Fire Detection Systems Compliant with BS5839 2013 & EN54 part23. · Voice Evacuation Systems · Security Alarm Systems · CCTV Systems · Access Control & Intercom System · Public Address · Integrated Systems

Unit 27 Cresent Business Park, Lisburn, Co. Antrim BT28 2GN T: 028 9266 1555 E-mail: info@dfsni.co.uk

Mahon Road, Portadown, BT62 3EH T: 028 3833 5215 F: 028 3833 4310 E: portadown.388@eel.co.uk

Automation Controls (Belfast) Limited Manufacturers of Electrical Equipment

Congratulations to Mac Electrics on their 30th Anniversary Musgrave Park Industrial Estate 22 Stockmans Way, Belfast BT9 7JU

Tel: 028 9068 1391 Fax: 028 9066 3533 Email: info@automationcontrolsltd.co.uk

72 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

Harpers Have it... Cable Specialists...

Cable Specialists YY, SY, LIYCY, H03, H05 flexibles, H07 single and multicore rubbers, silicone and FEP high temperature cables, CAT5E, CAT6, CAT6A and fibre optic cables.

Unit 1, Montgomery Business Park, 34 Montgomery Road, Belfast T: 028 9079 2155 - F: 028 9079 9031 www.cablespecialists.co.uk

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Leading electrical contractor looks ahead with renewed confidence after three decades in business…

30 years of success for Mac Electrics Ltd A daptability is an integral part of any company’s success and that has become a central ethos behind the success of Mac Electrics Ltd. 2015 marks 30 years in business for the Armagh-based electrical contractors and while this provides an opportunity to look back on hard-earned success, the company, as ever, is looking to build new opportunities that will allow it to look ahead with confidence. The foundation of the company was down to current Managing Director, Maurice McBirney, turning adversity into opportunity. In 1985 he was working as a Contracts Manager with McKeever Bros, a well known and sizeable electrical contractor. But he gave

“Our focus will be to ensure that we remain focused on offering new technology along with the more traditional aspects of service and reliability.”

up the comforts and security of an employee and decided to take a chance and establish his own business – so Mac Electrics was born. The company started with just Maurice and his sister, Jennifer, working on small and domestic jobs. But Mac Electrics soon moved away from that sector and, over the last three decades, has steadily grown, with current staff numbers ranging from anywhere between 25-50 people, dependent on the number of projects being undertaken in the industrial and commercial sectors. This level of steady growth has been optimised by the company’s ability to adapt to the marketplace and embrace the latest innovations. It is a combination of experience and innovation that is the backbone of the

MAC ELECTRICS LTD

company’s success. That is why Mac Electrics is as comfortable in working on an innovative new healthcare project or school as it is focusing on the restoration of a heritage project. The company has also showcased its ability to be standard bearers by completing a number of solar PV installations. Maurice said, “We are proud to have been in business for 30 years. We try to be as straightforward to work with as possible and I think it is a philosophy that has worked well – otherwise we wouldn’t still be here! “The industry is always changing, so our focus will be to ensure that we remain focused on offering new technology along with the more traditional aspects of service and reliability.”

Mac Electrics, 42 Armagh Business Centre, 2 Loughgall Road, Armagh, BT61 7NH T: 028 3752 4007 W: www.mac-electrics.com

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 73

MAC ELECTRICS ASSOCIATES

ONE OF NORTHERN IRELAND’S LEADING SUPPLIERS TO THE ELECTRICAL TRADE

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Bellew

Electrical Wholesale

Your electrical wholesaler DUNDALK

Centenary Business Park | Coes Road | Dundalk | Co. Louth TEL: +353 (0)42 933 7450 EMAIL: dundalk@bellewelectrical.com

Congratulations to Mac Electrics on 30 successful years. Sandholes Road, Kilcronagh Business Park, Cookstown BT80 9HG T: +44 (0)28 8676 2626 F: +44 (0)28 8676 2425 E: cookstownsales@centuryelectrical.co.uk

CASTLEBLAYNEY

Ballybay Road | Castleblayney | Co. Monaghan TEL: +353 (0)42 975 4575 EMAIL: castleblayney@bellewelectrical.com

CROSSMAGLEN

Eurospar Complex | Newry Road | Crossmaglen | Co. Armagh | BT35 9BN TEL: +44 (0)2830 860 830 EMAIL: crossmaglen@bellewelectrical.com

Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 8.00am - 5.00pm, Sat 9.00am - 12.00pm

SERVICE - PRODUCTS - FLEXIBILITY

www.centuryelectrical.co.uk

www.bellewelectrical.com

DUNDALK Providing a dedicated SERVICE to trade and industry.

TRAINING WORKS

A wide range of quality electrical PRODUCTS and services.

Keeping MAC Electrics up to date since 1999

Total management FLEXIBILITY from all our branches.

great service, products and flexibility

• Better Training • Better Apprentices keeping you connected with...

Eastern Electrical - Coes Road - Dundalk - Co. Louth. T: 042 933 7101 E: dundalk.eastern@easternelectrical.ie www.ewl.ie

74 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

• Better Electricians Ballymena: Units 57-59, Ballymena Bus. Centre, 62 Fenaghy Rd, Ballymena Armagh: Armagh Business Centre, 2 Loughgall Road, Armagh T: 028 2565 0750 – F: 028 2563 0725 – E: enquiries@ett-ni.org

www.ett-ni.org

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Work in education, healthcare, leisure and heritage highlights the vast experience of Mac Electrics…

MAC ELECTRICS LTD

Project portfolio showcases versatility

rmagh has proved the perfect location for Mac Electrics to become one of the province’s leading electrical contractors. The Cathedral City’s central location within Northern Ireland has allowed the company to expand across the province while also making the most of the obvious gateway into the Republic of Ireland. Over the last 30 years, Mac Electrics has worked right across Northern Ireland and has also expanded south, with projects being completed right down to Dublin. In recent years, many of the successful projects have been within the Public Sector with the company working on schools and hospitals. “This is specialist work, particularly when you are working in hospitals,”

explained Philip McBirney, who is the company’s Estimator and also the son of Managing Director, Maurice. “We pride ourselves on our attention to detail but also on our ability to work closely with the main contractor. This is particularly important if you are working on a live hospital or school project, where you need to be flexible in your approach to meet the needs of the client.” Mac Electrics also recently completed a refurbishment of Bishop’s Palace in Armagh – a project that required a modern approach to a heritage setting. As an Armagh based company, local pride was at stake and working on this Grade A listed building required the team to find the balance between seamlessly incorporating the latest

“We work extensively on both new build and retrofit projects, including heritage.”

energy saving technology, including LED lighting, while maintaining the historical setting. In contrast to this historical job was the company’s first major Solar PV installation at Downe Hospital in Downpatrick for the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust. Mac Electrics has also recently delivered a smart home package for a property on Skerries. Leon McKernan, Contracts Manager, added, “We have the expertise to be able to provide the same high standards regardless of the project. “We work extensively on both new build and retrofit projects, including heritage, and have experienced staff who will work in conjunction with the main contractor and client to ensure all their needs are met.”

Mac Electrics, 42 Armagh Business Centre, 2 Loughgall Road, Armagh, BT61 7NH T: 028 3752 4007 W: www.mac-electrics.com

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 75

MAC ELECTRICS ASSOCIATES

Wholesale Electrical Supplies (NI) Ltd

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Distributors of:

• Controlgear Direct • GET • Eurocables • Unitrunk • Ansell • Lawson • Kidde • Grasslin • Eterna • Falcon • Scame • AEI Cables Congratulations on your 30 year anniversary and best wishes for the future

Unit 1, Prince Regent Retail Park, Prince Regent Road, Belfast BT5 6QP Tel: 028 9070 5686 Fax: 028 9070 5933

BANGOR

B elfast

email: sales@wesni.co.uk Unit 2, Enterprise Business Park, Enterprise Road, Bangor BT19 7TA Tel: 028 9147 8060 Fax: 028 9147 8130

WITH OFFICES IN: BELFAST - 028 9075 6436 DUBLIN - (01) 860 1860 CORK (021) 488 3434 FOR OUR FULL PRODUCT RANGE SEE: www.ecilighting.co.uk

Congratulations to all at Mac Electrics as you celebrate 30 years in business.

“We have had the pleasure of working with Mac Electrics for many years on various projects and wish Maurice and his Team continued success in the future as they celebrate this important milestone”.

What Masterfire offer · · · · · · · · · · · · ·

Fire Alarm Systems (Conventional & Addressable) Emergency Lighting Systems (Conventional & Addressable) Nurse Call & Disabled Refuge Systems Voice Alarm Systems Automatic Extinguishing Systems Room Integrity Testing Portable Extinguishers and Fire Fighting Equipment Healthcare Rescue Products Training including on-line training with AT&F Complete in-house design facilities Project Management Complete System Service & Maintenance Online reporting with our mobile on-line application www.masterfirereports.ie

R.O.I. Office Masterfire Life Safety Systems Ltd. Unit 2 & 3 Ardee Business Park Ardee, Co. Louth Ph: 00353(0)41 6853313

U.K. Office Europa House, Barcroft Street Bury, Lancashire BL9 5BT Ph: 0044(0)161 4478888

www.masterfire.ie

76 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Fresh new look unveiled but experience still counts for Mac Electrics…

MAC ELECTRICS LTD

Maurice McBirney, Managing Director (front) with some of his team outside the company’s Armagh premises.

Experienced staff take on a new look

ne of the key reasons behind the 30 years of success enjoyed by Mac Electrics is the company’s staff. Mac Electrics is proud to have a significant base of long-serving staff who are the backbone of the business and, significantly, the company has seven site foremen who each boast over 20 years’ experience in the industry. “That level of experience is vital,” said Managing Director, Maurice McBirney. “We work across a wide range of projects which throw up various challenges, so having people who have a high level of experience makes a real

difference.” With that consistent level of talent being available, Mac Electrics is able to deliver projects across a plethora of sectors, including education, healthcare, leisure and heritage. This has allowed the company to adapt to meet the changing demands of clients. That is being reflected in the company’s current work at the Samuel Beckett Civic Centre at Ballyogan, Dublin. – a truly modern community facility. This facility will incorporate a civic library, six lane 25m swimming pool plus toddler pool, multi-purpose sports hall, fitness gym, community

“Having people who have a high level of experience makes a real difference.”

facilities, wet and dry changing facilities and a surface car-park and underground car-park. It also includes four synthetic grass pitches, a skate park, playground, three natural grass pitches and hard and soft landscaping. “This is an exciting but complex project that requires a lot of coordination and planning,” added Maurice. “But we love a challenge and these are the types of projects that we enjoy.” This combination of experience and innovation is reflected in the company’s new logo – which is being launched to coincide with the 30th anniversary.

Mac Electrics, 42 Armagh Business Centre, 2 Loughgall Road, Armagh, BT61 7NH T: 028 3752 4007 W: www.mac-electrics.com

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 77

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

SMOKE ALARMS

Kidde’s hard-wired CO alarms can interconnect with each other and Slick® or Firex® smoke/heat alarms.

Slick is the only range of fast-fit rechargeable smoke and heat alarms guaranteed for 10 years.

RECENT REGULATIONS ARE INCREASING DEMAND FOR CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS, AS WELL AS SMOKE AND HEAT ALARMS, SAYS LEADING MANUFACTURER, KIDDE…

Raising the alarm

n Northern Ireland, regulations require a CO alarm in the same room as a new or replacement combustion appliance, or just outside boiler rooms. Similarly, the 2014 Irish Technical Guidance Document J calls for CO alarms to be fitted in rooms where combustion appliances not used for cooking - are installed. But, it goes further, also requiring a CO alarm in every bedroom or nearby in the corridor. An alarm is also required in bedrooms where flues pass close by. Both regulations apply to existing and new-build properties, irrespective of fuel or flue type. In existing homes, fitting a battery-only CO alarm may be the simplest solution to comply with the regulations. It is essential, however, that installers have confidence that the CO alarms they have selected work effectively throughout their design lives. Kidde’s 10LLCO is the only range of 10-year guaranteed alarms with CO sensors – the key component – actually tested throughout a 10-year period or longer. Kidde also manufactures its own sensors, allowing tighter quality controls to be applied.

HARD-WIRED With new homes or major re-wiring, there is increasing interest in adding hardwired CO alarms to the electrical package - in particular, with a comprehensive system approach, such as Kidde’s ‘Smart Interconnect’. This enables Kidde’s hardwired CO alarms to interconnect with

www.elecmagazine.com

each other and also the company’s Slick CO alarms have different, distinct alarm or Firex ranges of hard-wired smoke and sounder patterns for Carbon Monoxide and heat alarms, using the unique ‘Smart fire, as required by BS 5839 Part 6:2013 – Interconnect’ feature. supported by different display messages on Firex is a popular range of cost-effective the digital model. optical and ionisation smoke, and heat So, without the need for any further alarms. The cable-harness wired alarms operation of the system (such as remote are interconnectable, and manufactured switches), Smart Interconnect automatically and supplied exclusively by alerts occupants of the specific Kidde. The current range hazard that confronts them – “Smart offers a choice of sealed-in either fire or Carbon Monoxide. Interconnect rechargeable lithium cells This allows them to respond or loose battery backup. quickly, making the right creates a Kidde’s premium Slick is choice from the very different comprehensive alternative actions for either the only range of fast-fit system for rechargeable smoke and fire or the presence of Carbon heat alarms guaranteed for Monoxide. whole home 10 years. With Slick, the Using Smart Interconnect, protection.” separate base plate can be Kidde hard-wired CO alarms in installed and its integral bedrooms can act as sounders terminal block wired, at first for the smoke/heat alarm fix, if appropriate. Then, near completion, system, as well as warning of Carbon the alarm simply slides onto the base plate Monoxide. This will resolve the issue of hinge flap and locks into place by default, hearing landing-located smoke alarms in also making maintenance simpler. bedrooms, highlighted – but not solved – Smart Interconnect creates a comprehensive by BS 5839 Part 6:2013. It could also satisfy system for whole home protection. With the recommendation for a smoke alarm in this feature, when a smoke or heat alarm every bedroom found in Irish Standard IS is triggered, all the interconnected alarms 3218:2013, and the Technical Guidance – including CO alarms – activate to alert requirement for a CO alarm using just a occupants of fire. single unit. When a Kidde hard-wired CO alarm is T: (NI) 01753 766392 or triggered by Carbon Monoxide, all the (RoI) 0044 1753 766392 interconnected CO alarms activate - but E: sales@kiddesafety.co.uk not the smoke or heat alarms. Crucially, the W: www.smoke-alarms.co.uk

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 79

new website

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

CEF’s new website - www.cef.co.uk - is a vast database of almost 27,000 electrical products, providing full order tracking, end-to-end fulfilment and next-day delivery service.

With a multimillion pound investment in cutting-edge technology, the company has well and truly joined the e-commerce revolution…

The game changer W hen launching a new website it wouldn’t be unreasonable to expect an electrical distributor to take its cues from competitors. But City Electrical Factors is no everyday, run-of-the-mill wholesaler! Before bringing www.cef.co.uk to market, the company embarked on a three-year design and implementation project and took inspiration from all the leading customer-friendly websites. And as of January this year, the new portal has boasted an easily searchable category list of almost 27,000 stock items, from all the major manufactures within the UK electrical industry, which have all been individually and painstakingly photographed to the exact same size and dimensions, to give the

city electrical factors ltd

80 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

site a look and feel that would sit comfortably alongside any household e-commerce giants. Dave Milne, one of six UK-wide General Managers, explained how the multi-million pound in-house development came to life. “The decision was made that if we were going to do something it would be done properly and investigated properly, rather than just launching something that wasn’t up to scratch. “All the fine detail on the website was gathered from the feedback we had from customers and attention to detail has been our main criteria. We’ve tried to emulate the best websites we could find around the internet - Amazon, John Lewis, people like that. And we also wanted to keep the clicks to an absolute minimum to allow people to easily navigate through the

“All the fine detail on the website was gathered from the feedback we had from customers, and attention to detail has been our main criteria.”

site.” Dave is reluctant to say the site has surpassed any of the competition, but it’s clear that its sheer size and reach is impressive. “We believe that we have gone into this project in great detail and, therefore, there are few companies with which we can be compared,” he added. Unusually, perhaps, for a company whose core business is based on an extensive knowledge of the electrical industry and its products, CEF has built its vast database and website internally, relying on an expert IT team, from developers to designers who are all CEF employees. The company has methodically sourced the people with skills in the right areas to develop a customised website that allows customers to

City Electrical Factors (CEF) Unit 4, Riverside Centre, Young Street, Lisburn, Co Antrim, BT27 5EA Tel: +44 (0)28 9046 6886 www.cef.co.uk

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

search products for next-day delivery and to have the same experience whether they use a smart phone, tablet or laptop. Customers can also track orders by e-mail or text so they have instant delivery information at their fingertips. Dave explained how the company even employs its own photographers to cope with taking thousands upon thousands of individual frames. “We set up and designed a brand new studio for the photographers to work in - even that was done in-house.” He added, “It has been a huge multi-millionpound investment. The decision was made that if we’re going to do this, it wasn’t going to be piecemeal, it was going to have to be industry-leading, and we believe it is. “There have been challenges along the way but at every juncture we’ve stepped up to those challenges and surpassed them. So from that point of view, hopefully we’ve left no stone unturned.” Founded in 1951, CEF now has almost 400 branches throughout the UK, 9 of which are in Northern Ireland, with a further 12 in the Republic of Ireland. The company has just spent the last three years upgrading its signage and branding to get uniformity, which it has right across its global operations, which includes the US, Canada, Spain and Australia. CEF also has its own in-house manufacturing operations which boast some 14 factories producing a vast range of electrical products - all of which are also available from www.cef.co.uk as well as

new website

the branch network. Web data is distributed regularly by one of Dave’s general manager colleagues – who is responsible for the website and regularly circulates its statistics, including sales and the performance of the carriers the company uses - Parcelforce, FedEx and PalletWays. “We’re delighted with the performance of the website since its launch,” Dave added. “The early results are extremely encouraging and every week it is gathering momentum.” As evidence of how well it is working he turns to some feedback, which landed on his desk only the day before about a remote customer based in the Highlands. Dave explained how the customer felt the service he was receiving from another supplier wasn’t up to standard, so the CEF website came at the right time. The note highlights how the new customer was pleased to be able to see the pictures and availability of the stock items and know they were getting what they needed. He also understood delivery can be a couple of days because of their remote location; however, the bulk of the order arrived within the promised delivery period. The icing on the cake was when the order was placed and he received a phone call couple of minutes later to explain that the complete order wasn’t available at the moment but the customer was told when they would get it. The balance duly arrived two days later and the customer felt the service was a “game changer”. In terms of where CEF goes next, Dave predicts growth in its Click and Collect

service, which allows customers to order online and pick up in any branch. If the stock is available from a branch then the customers can also interrogate and reserve any of this stock from the branch. “There are an awful lot of customers out there using smart devices so I think with more people using them to do business our Click and Collect function is going to grow massively.” In addition, customers can select to have the material delivered direct to any designated address within the UK. He said also that CEF has a “dynamic team” in place and are “foresighted about the way the industry is evolving”. “They understand how customers are changing in how they do their purchasing, and how their habits have changed.” And in terms of marketing, all the data is collected by the company allowing it to refine its customer service approach according to their wants and needs. “We’ve tried to make sure the website is customer-friendly and ticks all the right boxes”. The benefits of the website over the first three months have been very evident for CEF, with Dave explaining that the whole thing has taken off “above and beyond all our expectations”. He concluded, “From the point of view of the range of equipment we’ve been supplying, and new customers who have been attracted to the company, the whole thing has been mesmerising.”

Have you clicked? Visit the new CEF website www.cef.co.uk www.elecmagazine.com

city electrical factors ltd

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 81

BETTER TRAINING BETTER APPRENTICES BETTER ELECTRICIANS

TRAINING WORKS

2 3

TRAINING WORKS

APPROVED CENTRE

RICAL

ELECTROTEC

T EC EL

L A IC

4 HE TY ALTH E F & SA ELECTROTECHNICAL

2395 Level 3 Award in Periodic Inspection & Certification of Electrical Installations

23rd, 24th & 25th June 2015 PRICE: £425.00 ONLINE PRICE: £403.75

2394 Level 3 Award in Initial Verification & Certification of Electrical Installations

16th, 17th & 18th June PRICE: £425 ONLINE PRICE: £403.75

2377-22 In-service Inspection & Testing Of Electrical Equipment (PAT)

28th July 2015 PRICE: £225 ONLINE PRICE: £213.75

HEALTH & SAFETY

ELECTRICAL

CSR

6th July 2015 PRICE: £90 ONLINE PRICE: £85.50

Working at Heights

24th August 2015 PRICE: £150 ONLINE PRICE: £142.50

5% DISCOUNT

WHEN YOU BOOK AND PAY ONLINE, PLUS MULTIPLE BOOKING DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE ON REQUEST.

Safe Isolation

29th July PRICE: £45 ONLINE PRICE: £42.75 Inspection & Testing Practical Workshop

25th August 2015 PRICE: £125 ONLINE PRICE: £118.75

Introduction to Estimating

19th August 2015 PRICE: £225 ONLINE PRICE: £213.75

Ballymena: Units 57-59, Ballymena Business Centre, 62 Fenaghy Road, Ballymena Armagh: Armagh Business Centre, 2 Loughgall Road, Armagh T: 028 2565 0750 – F: 028 2563 0725 – E: enquiries@ett-ni.org

www.ett-ni.org

82 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

TRAINING WORKS

A new pathway to full electrical qualification

Scotts Electrical Services find fault with Belfast apprentices!

cotts Electrical Services have been finding faults with some Belfast apprentices - but in the best possible way! The ETT apprentices at Belfast Met’s Millfield campus gained genuine industry insight during a lecture on cable fault detection. ETT’s Chris Walker made arrangements to bring Gordon Nixon, Managing Director of Scotts Electrical Services, to the campus to provide a demonstration of the company’s impulse generator and to also deliver a tutorial to the eager apprentices on the topic of cable fault detection. The cable fault location machine used by Scotts Electrical Services is the only one of its kind in Northern

Ireland, so this provided the apprentices with a unique experience. The BMC/ETT apprentices even took the opportunity to get hands on with the audio headphone set during the classroom demonstration and listened attentively to an informative technical presentation. In addition, they were also able to get advice from Gordon on some of the career paths open to them in future. “This was a great opportunity to show the apprentices some of the different specialisms in the industry,” said Gordon. “While it is important they get their electrical qualification, I encouraged all the students to explore the opportunities available in niche sectors, where they will have a better

chance of being employed. “For example, at the moment our specialist areas include fault finding, energy efficiency, high voltage and hazardous areas. While we never have any problems finding electricians, it is not as straightforward finding those who have the specialist skills that we need, so I’m hoping the apprentices take my advice and that they’ll be knocking on my door soon.” Gordon has long been a supporter of ETT and he was excited to be able to meet the next generation “As an employer, we are always looking to add new, hard-working employees to our team, so it was heartening to see such an enthusiastic group of apprentices at Belfast Met.”

he assessment team at ETT is planning to treat around 20 underqualified mature electrical workers with the new City & Guilds 2356-99 award. The award has been developed between City & Guilds and the JIB, with the aim of assisting experienced electrical workers who wish to achieve the formal recognition and designation as an ‘Electrician’. Employers are invited to encourage those workers who are underqualified to come forward and learn more about the new option. Essentials to the mature assessment route will include the following minimum requirements – • A Level 3 Inspection & Testing qualification (similar to City & Guilds & Guilds 2394) • An up-to-date accredited qualification in the BS7671 17thEdition • A pass mark in the AM2 (Achievement Measurement 2 Test ) • Demonstrating competency via a bespoke assessment strategy. Anyone interested in learning more about this useful option should contact Chris Walker on 028 2565 0750 for a free initial consultation. ETT will be glad to provide you with a personal fixed price quote and easy payment terms aimed at helping you and your workers.

www.ett-ni.org

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 83

TRAINING WORKS

Apprentices get on board with ABB Apprentices at Belfast Metropolitan and Northern Regional Colleges enjoyed a break from the programme to receive a short presentation from Erwin Caldwell on board ABB’s product demonstration van. The visit to both campuses was arranged by ETT with the aim of helping young apprentices learn more about the technical and performance capabilities of low voltage switch gear and control equipment.

Chris Walker, ETT, (left) and David Ferguson, Belfast Met, (right) with some of the current apprentices.

Build your business with a Higher Level Electrical Apprenticeship

igher Level Apprenticeships are a Government-led initiative designed to equip individuals and companies with the key skill mix to succeed in a changing market place. The aim of the strategy is to promote lifelong learning to individuals within your company from Level 3 to Level 8 PhD. ETT is supporting the vision of its partner Belfast Met to develop a Higher Level Apprenticeship in Electrical Installation, linked to a Level 5 University of Ulster Foundation Degree in Building Services and Renewable Energies. The higher level apprenticeship will work on a similar model as existing apprenticeships. The employer will select a candidate with A Levels who will complete the existing ETT apprenticeship framework at the same time as completing a foundation degree in Building Services and Renewable Energies. There will be no cost to the candidate or the company.

TIME SCALE Higher level apprenticeships are 5 years in total. In the 1st and 2nd year, candidates complete C&G 2357

knowledge units, then start the foundation degree from year 3-5 alongside completing 2357 NVQ performance units. Alternatively, an employer can select a candidate who has completed an ETT apprenticeship to be up skilled to a Level 5 foundation degree in Building Services and Renewable Energies. The duration of this method is 3 years part-time, 1 day a week. Foundation Degree in Building Services and Renewables Units: • Leadership and Management • Engineering Maths • Building service Design • Energy Resources and Renewable Technology • Building Construction Technology • CAD & BIM 3D Design • Year 1 Project • Solar Technologies • Design Principles and Legislation • Further Mathematics • Supervised Work Based Learning • Electrical & Energy Engineering • CHP, Heat Pumps and Biomass • Renewable Energy Project • Power from Wind and Water Contact ETT for more details.

www.ett-ni.org

84 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

TRAINING WORKS

NRC partner success Co-operation between NRC and ETT has been well established since 1998. During the period the partnership has helped train over 1,000 electricians. NRC/ETT Curriculum Area Manager Andrew Mc Keegan and Senior NRC Tutor Alistair McDonald lead the directed learning effort on behalf of the industry partnership at the Farm Lodge Campus in Ballymena. The college work closely with ETT to improve the quality and raise the standards of electrical apprenticeship training in order to benefit the local industry. ETT Chairman Lewis Darragh said, “Local employers welcome the partnership between NRC and ETT. The commitment going forward provides an excellent basis on which to meet the requirements of the local industry as it emerges from the lengthy effects of recession.”

Practical training at Armagh Turning theory into practice is one of the top priorities of the ETT tutoring staff at the new Industry and Apprentice Training Centre located on the Loughgall Road, Armagh. All the essential classroom knowledge must eventually be applied to the workplace, so young apprentices are directed and challenged to achieve productivity and accuracy in the workshop with the aim of producing good practice in the real world environment. ETT recognises that good quality practical skills’ training is essential to the commercial success and benefit of employers.

Need CSR training or card renewal? ETT is local and available to provide a convenient one-day CSR training and card renewal service to electrical contractors in the districts around Armagh and Ballymena. Now is a good time to check the expiry date of your workers’ CSR cards. No-one likes to be caught out by an out-of-date card, as this usually leads to unproductive time, delay and disruption and loss of earnings or revenue. If you are an electrical contractor and require CSR training, ETT is here to help.

A snapshot of just some of the recent course attendees…

Ashley Stubbing, BEAM Vacuum and Ventilation, who completed the 237722 In-Service Inspection & Testing of Electrical Equipment.

Gerard Fawcett, Complete Beverage Services Ltd, completed the 2377-22 InService Inspection & Testing of Electrical Equipment.

Richard Keenan, BEAM Vacuum and Ventilation, who completed the 237722 In-Service Inspection & Testing of Electrical Equipment.

Neal Potter, Campbell College, completed the 2377-22 In-Service Inspection & Testing of Electrical Equipment.

www.ett-ni.org

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 85

Sparksafe LTP

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Charlotte Bamber, Systems and Compliance Director at Sparksafe LTP, provides some top tips…

Seven steps to SparkSafe compliance

1 2 3

Ensure you are SparkSafe registered. You will not be able to access any public sector projects unless you have completed your online registration.

When the electrical worker accepts your connection request, you must then add the worker to the project that they will be working on. Projects are created within the SparkSafe system by CPD/CoPEs.

Once you have registered, you are required to make sure that all of your Electrical Workers (both directly employed and sub-contracted) are SparkSafe Licenced to Practice. Once your workers have had their licence approved, you are required to make connections with your Electrical Workers via your SparkSafe member’s area (you can only connect with those workers who have had their licence approved by SparkSafe).

6 Charlotte Bamber, Systems and Compliance Director at Sparksafe LTP.

Once you have sent the connection request to all of your workers, the connection requests will appear as ‘pending’ on the system. It is the responsibility of the worker to accept the request and connect with you. You should manage these connections via your SparkSafe member’s area.

Electrical Worker

Good for Electrical Workers

You must manage the make-up of your workforce composition for each project. This is easily accessed and managed via the Workforce Composition Report within your member’s area. Once workers have been added by you to the project, this allows CPD/CoPEs and main contractors to have visibility of your workforce by licence type on a project by project basis.

Ensure you maintain your SparkSafe registration. You are required to renew your SparkSafe registration annually. You will receive a renewal e-mail reminder from us three months prior to your expiry date. You will also receive an alert within your SparkSafe member’s area.

340

SparkSafe Applicants

Electrical Contractors

Main Contractors

Good for Good for Electrical Main Contractors Contractors

86 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

SparkSafe Applicants

connecting competency with contracts FOLLOW US ON:

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Sparksafe LTP

JIB/ECS card and licence to practice

Launching the SEC Group Northern Ireland report at SparkSafe’s Electrical Business Conference are (from left) Patsy McGlone MLA, Chairman of the All-Party Group on Construction; Rudi Klein, SEC Chairman; and Alfie Watterson, SEC Group Northern Ireland.

Professor Rudi Klein, CEO UK SEC Group, welcomes the success of Licence to Practice…

Professor Klein welcomes LTP

or years UK construction has been preoccupied with delivering the lowest price encompassing the lowest standards it can get away with. The absence of barriers to entry to the industry has supported this culture; it attracts those who have little interest in training and skills, in properly managing health and safety risk or investing in the necessary technologies to improve quality standards. This immediately creates an uneven playing field which acts as a disincentive to reputable firms to do all these things. Why make the effort when you know you are going to be outbid by a ‘cowboy’ business? In almost every State in America, electrical contractors (and other contractors) have to be licensed in order to operate. Licensing schemes also exist in Australia. Holding a license generally signifies that the business is technically competent and has in place appropriate health and safety measures. With the backing of the procurement authorities

in Northern Ireland it seems that SparkSafe is set to transform the construction industry. SparkSafe is a license to practice both for electrical contracting businesses and their qualified personnel. The SparkSafe model can be applied to other trades to enable the concept of licensing to spread across the industry. In this way we can transform the industry by creating a fair and level playing field on which only reputable forms can compete.

SparkSafe recommendation SparkSafe has recommended that electrical contractors download a copy of Professor Rudi Klein’s SEC report entitled “Payment practices and prequalification in the public sector construction in Northern Ireland.” The report can be found under the news section of the SparkSafe website – www.sparksafeltp.co.uk

he possession of an up-to-date JIB/ECS card is desirable, but not an essential requirement for those seeking to meet the criteria for SparkSafe Licence to Practice approval. Evidence of appropriate electrical qualifications is the primary factor in the assessment criterion. In addition to this, applicants are also required to provide details of their relevant experience and skills. The assessment process takes all three areas into consideration, with the aim of establishing a fair and reasonable basis on which to grant the most suitable licence type to the applicant. Where a valid JIB/ECS card is declared and evidenced by an applicant, endeavours will be made to treat this as a swift pass to the award of a licence. If the card indicates that the holder has achieved the grade of electrician, or a hirer grade, and states accreditation of knowledge in the current edition of the IET Requirements for Electrical Installation, a Qualified Electrician (QE) licence type will be considered for early approval. Evidence of accredited current knowledge of BS7671 is a pre-requisite of the QE licence type. All other JIB electrical installation cardholders will be eligible for either the Restricted Electrical Worker or Apprentice Licence.

SparkSafe T: (NI) 028 2566 6835 or (RoI) 048 2566 6835 E: enquiries@sparksafeltp.co.uk www.sparksafeltp.co.uk

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 87

training

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

RISE IN NUMBER OF VISITORS TO TECHTALKS SHOWS LEVEL OF CARE AND INTEREST CONTRACTORS TAKE IN THEIR WORK…

Record results for TechTalks

record number of visitors attended the latest series of NICEIC and ELECSA’s award-winning TechTalk events, which again included a date in Belfast. More than 2,100 conscientious contractors poured through the doors of the 11 regional shows, which ran from September 2014 to March 2015 – a massive 41% increase on the previous year’s series. The number of exhibitors at each event also grew by 30%, making the latest series the most successful yet. Sarah King, Marketing Events Executive at NICEIC and ELECSA, said, “TechTalks give us the opportunity to go around the country and speak to our contractors about the latest happenings within the industry and find out first-hand the issues they want us to look at.” In addition to the TechTalks, the team also

88 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

put on four additional roadshow events in Scotland this year. More than 300 contractors attended these shows which, like the TechTalks, included updates on Amendment 3, informative seminars and the chance to quiz the team’s technical experts. NICEIC and ELECSA are continually investing in new ways to improve the visitor experience at each of its shows, and the latest series of events included new additions, such as the use of electronic voting pads and interactive videos featuring industry favourites, Tony Cable and Darren Staniforth. Feedback from the latest series revealed that 96% of attendees rate the show good or excellent value for money, whilst 97% said they would attend again.

“96% of attendees rate the show good or excellent value for money.” T: (NI) 0870 013 0382 E: enquiries@certsure.com W: certsure.com

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

training

Michael Conlon, Head of the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at DIT, explains how Electrical engineering courses are adapting...

Back to school – electrical courses at DIT

t the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Dublin Institute of Technology both apprenticeship and post-apprenticeship education is catered for, with modules constantly changing to reflect the industry’s changing needs. Students wishing to take up electrical engineering now have the opportunity of experiencing all facets of engineering before deciding which area to focus on. “Previously, students would have had to decide very early whether they wanted to become a civil engineer or electrical engineer. Now, we’ve moved towards a more general 1st year and it’s only at the end of the year when students decide which discipline they want to go into,” says Michael. Changes to electrical courses include more of a focus on renewable energy and specific BER modules. Building Information Modelling (BIM) has also been included in courses to reflect the industry’s growing inclination towards the technology. Post-apprenticeship education is well catered for in the School. About four years ago, quite a few of the students on the Level 7 Ordinary Degree Programmes in DIT were electricians who had opted to go back into training. “This is tapering off now, as activity in the industry increases, but we would have had a significant number of electricians who wanted to upskill to improve their prospects for when they returned to the workforce.” Michael says the School noticed a slight fall off in numbers taking up civil engineering but generally not on the electrical side. “Graduates with electrical engineering degrees tend to be employed in a number of sectors that are not necessarily linked

www.elecmagazine.com

to the construction industry, so areas like manufacturing and design attract electrical engineers, whereas other disciplines perhaps rely more on the building side.” According to Michael, the School is ready and able to facilitate any number of apprentices that want to complete their Phase 4 or Phase 6 courses. “The number of apprentices coming through over the past couple of years has been steady. We would expect that to start growing but really that’s up to Solas. Apprentices are crucial to the industry if it’s to start moving again.” T: 01 402 3000 W: www.dit.ie

The information you need… So what courses are available in the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at DIT? How do you apply and what are the job prospects? Here’s what you need to know What courses are available? - The School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at DIT offers a wide range of post-apprenticeship courses – B Eng Tech in Electronics and Communications Engineering (DT008); B Eng Tech in Electrical and Control Engineering (DT009); B Eng Tech in Sustainable Design in Electrical Services Eng (DT010). The two latter courses are especially suitable for electricians while the School also offers a bridging programme that allows for direct entry on to year two of any of the programmes mentioned above. How to apply? - Applying for one of these courses is easy. For those interested in advanced entry, details are available on www.dit.

ie/study/undergraduate/ advancedentry/. It’s also possible to apply for entry to both Year 1 and Year 2 which may increase your chances of getting onto the course. Application must be through the CAO. Entry to Year 1 - Standard Leaving Certificate requirements do not apply for mature or non-standard students – each application is considered on the basis of your work/academic experience and potential to successfully complete the programme. Advanced Entry to Year 2 Applications are considered on a case-by-case basis and usually require support through a range of up to four bridging modules (depending

on the applicant’s educational background). Applicants must have an Electrical National Craft Certificate (or equivalent qualification) and may also have to complete bridging modules in Mathematics, Electrical/Electronic Science, Computer Applications and AutoCAD. The bridging programme normally runs over the last two weeks in June. What are your job prospects after the course? - Graduates from these programmes have always been well sought after by industry. In addition, the School maintains close ties with industry. Employers often contact the School directly to enquire about graduates; this is expected to increase as employment opportunities continue to improve.

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 89

CEW Associates

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

CoreLine Tempo Available from

Century Electrical Wholesale NEWRY

The range, the quality, the service, the price

Congratulations to Century Electrical Wholesale, Newry on 10 successful years

4-6 Tamar Street - Belfast - T:+44 (0)28 9045 2121 - F: +44 (0)28 9045 2727

90 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Century Electical Wholesale COMPANY PROFILE

Ross Hutchinson, Branch Manager (centre) and his team at CEW Newry.

A decade of success lays the foundation for a strong future…

Century Electrical Wholesale marks 10 years in Newry

entury Electrical Wholesale is celebrating 10 years of success in Newry – although it is very much with eyes on the future and not the past. The branch, which is located along the main Belfast Road into Newry city, was the second CEW branch to open in Northern Ireland and its early success helped lay the foundation for a strong and steady expansion process by the company that currently sits at eight branches. CEW Newry is perfectly positioned to make the most of the cross-border traffic, but the success of the branch is down to a lot more than just a good location. Branch Manager, Ross Hutchinson, has been with the company since it opened in Newry, and he feels the perfect balance between stock and service has helped them generate a decade of success.

“We are delighted to complete 10 successful years in business,” said Ross. “Having been here for the last decade, it is amazing to see how we have worked through the good economic times and the bad to ensure that we meet the demands of our customers. “Having good stocks and service is a simple philosophy to follow but it is more difficult to achieve than you’d think. However, we have proven over the last 10 years that we can achieve this and that is why we enjoy so much repeat business.” Those customers who keep returning to the Newry branch are a diverse mix – which is another major advantage of working with CEW. Ross added, “We can cater for all types of customers - from the small electrical contractor to large industrial contractors,

maintenance departments, plumbers and hardware shops, amongst others. “Regardless of the size of company, we provide the same high standards of service. Customers also benefit from working with a company that has strategically located branches across Northern Ireland, meaning they have access to orders regardless of where they are working.” Customers can also choose from a vast selection of products. Century Electrical Wholesale is a member of the AWEBB Buying consortium that boasts over 65 members and 135 branches throughout the UK and Ireland, giving customers a national network of electrical distributors whilst maintaining the personal care their business demands. Together, AWEBB has a purchasing power in access of £200m, ensuring prices are always competitive.

Century Electrical Wholesale, Unit 4, Campbells Yard, Belfast Road, Newry, Down, BT34 1QH T: (NI) 028 3083 4050 or (RoI) 048 3083 4050 www.centuryelectrical.co.uk

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 91

CEW Associates

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Light Years Ahead

Visit the microsite at firerated.com

auroralighting.com

92 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Century Electical Wholesale COMPANY PROFILE

Extensive product range from leading manufacturers is backed by a high level of service…

The perfect combination of stock and service

ike the rest of the company, CEW Newry works hard to give customers the latest innovations the industry has to offer. Ross Hutchinson, Branch Manager, heads up an experienced seven-strong workforce who prides themselves on delivering exactly what the customer requires. Excellent stocks from leading manufactures such as Hager, Scolmore, Philips, Ansell, Aurora and Draka, to name just a few, make a difference. A full range of steelwire armoured cables is also stocked and a cutting service is offered in the branch’s

purpose-built cable yard and cable stores. Customers can also select from a large stock of the latest LED lighting products - from floodlighting, security lighting, domestic and commercial LED luminaries to retrofit lamps, outdoor garden lighting and the latest in LED tapes and colour changing systems. The extensive product range at CEW Newry also includes security products, including CCTV, intruder/fire alarm systems and security lighting. One of the most recent additions has been the range of Inels intelligent automation by Scolmore. Ensuring these products get where they

need to go is an impressive delivery service. Same-day delivery is offered within a reasonable radius of each branch, with the remaining areas covered with a next-day service. Ross added, “Deliveries outside of the branch’s normal delivery schedule in urgent or special circumstances will always be considered.” Complementing this excellent level of service are on-site visits for energy surveys, lighting designs or general advice – all of which are considered simply part of the service.

Century Electrical Wholesale, Unit 4, Campbells Yard, Belfast Road, Newry, Down, BT34 1QH T: (NI) 028 3083 4050 or (RoI) 048 3083 4050 www.centuryelectrical.co.uk

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 93

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Century Electical Wholesale COMPANY PROFILE

Newry branch offers a local service backed by national coverage to meet the needs of customers…

CEW service extends across the UK and Ireland

he days of electrical contractors focusing their work on one very specific geographical area have changed – and it is a change that has placed new demands on electrical wholesalers. More and more companies from Northern Ireland are not just expanding across the province but are also securing work in the Republic of Ireland and across the Irish Sea. Century Electrical Wholesale is perfectly placed to meet these new demands. Since the company was established in 2003 the branch network has steadily expanded

and now sits at eight – five branches in Northern Ireland and three in England, with much of this expansion process taking place over the last few years. The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of National Electrical Wholesalers, whose main operation is based in Dublin with other facilities in Cork, Naas and Bray. In Northern Ireland, the company has two branches based in Belfast and has further outlets in Newry, Cookstown and Enniskillen. The English branches are in Derby, Liverpool and Wolverhampton. This network means that customers can enjoy a superior distribution service

throughout a wide geographical area. It also means they can enjoy the trusted CEW service regardless of where they are working. However, within this national aspect of the company, CEW firmly believes in delivering a more local service to their customers and offering quality electrical products at value-for-money prices. It is that local focus that has allowed the company to continue to expand and is one of the reasons why the Newry branch can look back on the last 10 years with pride, while looking to the future with confidence.

Century Electrical Wholesale, Unit 4, Campbells Yard, Belfast Road, Newry, Down, BT34 1QH T: (NI) 028 3083 4050 or (RoI) 048 3083 4050 www.centuryelectrical.co.uk

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 95

Cew associates

96 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

tools

The new Speed Punch System reduces operation time when punching a hole in mild steel, plastic and aluminium sheets up to 3.5mm thick – by up to three times…

Greenlee launches superfast sheet metal hole-making system

sers of sheet metal hole punching systems will be familiar with the benefits of using these products and of the various technological advances made in recent years. Improvements in hydraulic pulling tools and the move from foot and hand pumps to modern, lightweight, battery-operated solutions have allowed for faster results and a more efficient process. The new Speed Punch system has gone a step further by eliminating the process of threading the punch onto and off the draw stud. Instead, a threadless draw stud and robust ‘Speed Lock’ clamp are

New Klauke Speed Punch system in action

utilised, making assembly and disassembly simpler and up to three times faster than conventional punching systems. Speed Punch is available for ISO sizes 16-63 and is compatible with all existing pulling tools. The punch and die have been sized to eliminate the need for spacers, requiring fewer parts, and without threads, there’s less chance of errors. When combined with a battery hydraulic punch driver, for example LS50L-flex, it provides the fastest punching system on the market today according to Klauke, allowing the user to perform more holes in less time than

previously achievable. For square and rectangular hole punches, the same results can be achieved with Speed Nut. This only requires a new draw stud and Speed Nut which works with your existing punches, bringing the user the same benefits in installation time. Download the data sheet at http://www.klauke.com/fileadmin/user_ upload/pdf/download/speed_punch_hole_ making_tool.pdf T: (NI) 01986 891 519 or (RoI) 0044 1 986 891 519 E: sales@Klauke.textron.com

AVAILABLE AT

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 97

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

cables & Cable management

CABLES & CABLE MANAGEMENT OUR REGULAR LOOK AT THE NEWS AND ISSUES AFFECTING THE CABLES AND CABLE ACCESSORIES SECTOR…

Electrical products on list of nonconfirming products in UK construction sector

BASEC calls for more technical information on cable products

he British Approvals Service for Cables (BASEC) is encouraging cable manufacturers and traders to make more technical information readily available to users of their cable products. BASEC receives many enquiries and sometimes user complaints relating to cable products, where timely technical information from the cable manufacturer or trader could have prevented a problem occurring. The enquiries come from both installers and wholesalers, so this lack of detailed product information has been seen across the supply chain. Dr Jeremy Hodge, Chief Executive of BASEC, explained, “In some cases these issues relate to the cable parameters not regulated through cable standards or approvals, but they are nevertheless important cable specifications needed for safe installation without damaging the

cable, and for usability.” Other types of cable product information commonly being sought include the cable manufacturer’s recommendations for clips/ cleats and for glands and terminations. “Many cable manufacturers and suppliers do offer websites, customer helplines or data sheets containing such information,” continued Jeremy. “But, unfortunately, it is not consistent from one supplier to another” BASEC would like to encourage cable manufacturers and traders to provide consistent technical product information to their customers, either in the form of data sheets, information on websites, information provided via wholesalers or distributors, or other means. T: (NI) 01908 267300 or (RoI) 0044 1908 267300 W: www.basec.org.uk

BASEC would like to encourage cable manufacturers and traders to provide consistent technical product information to their customers. www.elecmagazine.com

he Approved Cables Initiative (ACI) is questioning the prevalence of faulty products in the UK construction sector, following news from Australia that NonConforming Products (NCPs) are a significant problem in the country’s building and construction sector. Last year, as already reported by the ACI, a national cable recall left some Australian cable importers experiencing financial difficulties, having failed to choose products from reputable manufacturers and suppliers. Around 40,000 homes and businesses still have potentially dangerous cable installed six months on from the recall. The Australian construction sector reports a number of factors that are leading to a growth in faulty products, including a rise in online purchases; gaps in the regulatory environment; pressure to cut costs (competing on price for labour); and a global market - where smaller, lightweight building products can be easily transported. Examples of non-conforming goods found in Australia include electrical products, and, as a result, the ACI has stated, “We are keen to understand whether the problems experienced in Australia of non-conforming products are also being played out in the UK construction sector. Many of the reasons cited for the rise in NCPs have relevance for the UK too and we would ask all interested parties to let us know of any similar experiences they may have had.”

T: (NI) 0208 946 6978 or (RoI) 0044 208 946 6978 E: info@aci.org.uk W: www.aci.org.uk

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 99

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

cables

High quality cable with consistent colours and short lead times – all manufactured in the UK…

Clynder Cables understands that reliability is key

lynder Cables is a manufacturer that understands that reliability is everything when sourcing cable. The company has over 30 years of experience in the supply of UK manufactured industrial electrical cables to the UK, European and International markets and specialises in single core cables, such as the famous Tri-rated cable. With all the company’s cable manufactured in the UK, Clynder can ensure high quality products with consistent colours and short lead times. This is a key area when providing that all-important reliability. Another aspect of this is reflected in the company’s drive to maintain the highest standards, which independently verified by the UL and CSA accreditations held by Clynder Cables.

www.elecmagazine.com

Founded in Huyton, Merseyside in 1983, Clynder Cables quickly established itself as the leading brand for British-made, high quality tri-rated panel and switchgear wiring. In 2002 the company relocated to Manchester, where it strengthened the distribution side of the business, expanded the product range and promoted the Clynder Cables brand. The company’s cable is supplied mainly to the control panel industry through most of the well-known electrical wholesalers and

distributors in the UK and Ireland. In recent years, Clynder has broadened its product range with the ‘Superflex’ range of highly flexible tri-rated panel wiring, cables with remarkable properties of flexibility and bending radius. Other products include 2491X and 2491B equipment wires, solar cable and Def. Stan equipment wires and multicores. T: (NI) 0161 629 9333 or (RoI) 0044 161 629 9333 E: sales@clyndercables.co.uk W: www.clyndercables.co.uk

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 101

recruitment

Re-advertisement

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Job vacancies that target the specialists

I due to the continued success and expansion of the Plumbing and Heating, Northern Builder and electrical magazines, One of Ireland’s most successful publishing houses is now recruiting the following post.

Publication/Sales Manager

(Ref: R15/01) The steady and successful growth of the publication is based upon a talented and committed workforce with the ability to build long-term relationships with clients in a diverse market, while maintaining excellent quality standards.

f you have a job vacancy then you want to find the right person to join your team. So what better way to target professionals within the electrical industry than with a job advert in the Electrical Magazine – the leading trade magazine in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland dedicated solely to the electrical sector. Also, if you are looking for a change of direction in your career, then this is the place to look! Janice Uprichard, Publication Manager of the Electrical Magazine, explained, “Whether you are looking for a new job or you have one to advertise, then you can find what you are looking for in the Electrical Magazine. “As you can see from this job section, confidence within this industry is growing and companies are, once again, starting to take on new staff. “Electrical contractors, specifiers, project engineers, wholesalers, consultants, architects and many more with links to our industry receive the magazine, so you can target a wide but specialist audience with your job advert.” For more information on placing a job advertisement, telephone Janice on (NI) 028 9261 2990 or (RoI) 01 696 8319. You can also e-mail janice@kmpltd.co.uk

Reporting to the Managing Director, you will be responsible for managing all aspects of the publication and related events, as well as, securing new and existing business to achieve sales targets. Candidate Requirements: • Customer focused approach with a proven track record of success • Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a media sales or a sales and marketing environment • Target driven, highly motivated and results orientated • Proven experience of prospecting and delivering new business • Good reporting skills • Excellent presentation skills This post is full time and based at/from our Head Office at 13b Lisburn Road, Moira, BT67 0JR. If you like the sound of a career in this creative and ambitious business, please email hr@kmpltd.co.uk to receive an application pack. Waiting Lists for the above post for similar vacancies that occur in the following 12 months may be compiled. Karen McAvoy Publishing Ltd is committed to its equal opportunities policy, and all applications will be considered strictly on the basis of merit.

102 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

recruitment

ONE OF NORTHERN IRELAND’S LEADING SUPPLIERS TO THE ELECTRICAL TRADE

We’re Hiring

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER (Belfast- Dunmurry)

Working out of our Belfast-Dunmurry branch, covering the greater Belfast area, we require an external business development manager to compliment our existing sales team. The successful candidate should be self motivated with a proven record of performance, calling on contractors and end users within the electrical sector. The remuneration package for this position will be commensurate with the individuals ability to deliver on an agreed sales budget. If you believe you have the skill set for this role, send your c.v. in confidence to gfinnegan@centuryelectrical.co.uk H.R. Manager. Closing date for applicants, Friday 12 June.

www.centuryelectrical.co.uk

INTERNAL Technical Sales Executive – Projects Division DUBLIN We require a technical sales executive to join our Project Sales Teams in Core Electrical Dublin. This is an office based position created to provide the highest level of support to our customer base throughout Ireland for project solutions using our range of products.

The Role • To advise and support Specification Engineers, Electrical Contractors and Electrical Wholesale Customers on the correct products and best value solutions to be used in specific electrical installations. • Prepare project quotations based on the interpretation of information given within the tendering process. Offering market leading solutions which show the USPs of the project solutions from our product range. • Working closely with the manufacturer to maintain an upto-date knowledge of market trends and pricing structures, as well as liaising and supporting the external project sales team.

The Requirements • To have the knowledge and ability to interpret technical drawings and specification information and convert this information into project solutions. • To have project sales experience working within the Irish electrical market, dealing with Consultant Engineers, Electrical Contractors and Electrical Wholesalers. • Excellent communication skills and telephone manner. • The ability to work with Microsoft, Sage, CRM Applications and design experience would be useful. • Technical qualification and/or experience essential.

Please apply by email only to: National Sales Director (RoI), Dan Fisher, dfisher@coreelectrical.ie

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 103

electrical trade event belfast

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Electrical trade event BELFAST | REVIEW BELFAST TRADE EVENT PROVIDES BOOST FOR THE NORTHERN IRELAND ELECTRICAL INDUSTRY…

Belfast show shines a light on the electrical industry

orthern Ireland’s Electrical Trade Event, Belfast, organised by Electrical Magazine, has proved a success again this year, attracting a diverse range of exhibitors and visitors involved in the electrical industry. The location at the Ramada Plaza Hotel in Belfast proved a popular choice once again as the two-day event brought this wide-ranging sector together in a tried and tested environment that promotes new business relationships and encourages innovation. Offering a mix of show offers and discounts, along with hands-on demonstrations, trade talks and training advice, plus exhibitors showcasing exciting new products and services, the annual event provided a wealth of new information, as well as valuable networking opportunities. Commenting on the success of this year’s event, Electrical Magazine’s Publication Manager, Janice Uprichard, said, “This is a dedicated trade exhibition for the electrical industry in Northern Ireland, and one we are very proud to organise each year. Supported by leading manufacturers and suppliers, it provides the perfect platform for showcasing new products and innovations within the industry.”

104 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

electrical trade event belfast

PRIZE WINNERS • PRIZE WINNERS • PRIZE WINNERS • PRIZE WINNERS • PRIZE WINNERS • PRIZE WINNERS

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

www.elecmagazine.com

Happy winners Generous exhibitors provided a wide range of prizes, special offers and discounts at this year’s trade event in Belfast. Here are just some of the winners.

Gordon Nixon, Managing Director, and Graham Willis, Project Engineer - both Scotts Electrical Services - presenting a cheque to Colm Kerr of the Freeman Heart & Lung Transplant Association.

Scotts Electrical makes charity donation Scotts Electrical Services Limited has donated £100 to the Freeman Heart & Lung Transplant Association after the kind-hearted winner of a competition at their stand during the show asked for them to present the money to a charity of their choice. The winner, who wishes to remain anonymous, won the fastest finger game.

Philip Graham from PDG Electrical won CT1’s prize of The Snag List Eliminator Sealant.

Colin McNeil from Blackbourne Integrated M+E won a new Smart TV, courtesy of the Electrical Magazine.

Lucky winner Gary Maxwell from WGM Electrical receiving his Stanley tool box from Sam Keery of Fire NI.

Colin Ferguson won a Lockout Tagout Complete Kit from lockoutsafety.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 105

electrical trade event belfast

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Electrical trade event BELFAST | REVIEW

Talks and training The aim of the Electrical Trade Event in Belfast is to be as informative as possible, and this year featured a selection of topical talks and training opportunities. These included a look at the Third Amendment to the 17th Edition; an insight into surge protection; and also a look at the fast-moving arena of BIM (Building Information Modelling). The experts delivering the talks offered some interesting viewpoints that provided attendees with a different perspective on these topical areas.

106 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

electrical trade event belfast

Hands-on demonstrations It’s hard to beat getting your hands on a new drill or a pair of pliers specifically designed for electricians, which is probably why the new tools demo area proved a popular addition to the Electrical Trade Event in Belfast.

NEXT TRADE EVENT: NORTH WEST

THUR 11 JUNE 2015 3PM - 9PM, EVERGLADES HOTEL, DERRY/LONDONDERRY www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 107

insurance

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

VAN INSURANCE DEAL FROM AXA OFFERS VALUE AND FREE BREAKDOWN ASSISTANCE…

Business costs rising?

ith business costs continuing to rise, van drivers need insurance which will give them the right cover and keep them on the road. That’s why AXA Insurance is offering free breakdown assistance, including home start, to all new customers. This means that if you break down out on the road, or have problems before leaving home in the morning, your cover from AXA can help make sure you keep your business running smoothly. As well as this great offer, AXA has also created a dedicated commercial vehicles team, who understand van drivers and are able to help you get the right cover. Kerry Graham, AXA Insurance Commercial Manager, said, “We talk with van drivers every day, from across Northern Ireland. They all work in different industries and have different priorities, but all agree that getting the right insurance is important to help keep them on the road.

“Our phone lines are open from 9am5pm Monday – Friday and 9am-2pm on Saturday, and our team are always happy to talk through how you can get the right cover.” AXA has 14 branches across Northern Ireland, so wherever you are, you’re never far from one of its local branches. “There are times when you need to talk to someone face to face,” said Kerry. “Discussing things by phone or using e-mail isn’t always quite enough, especially if you want documents on the spot, pay by cash or have forms you want to go through. That’s why we have 14 branches across the cities, towns and suburbs of Northern Ireland, with opening hours to suit our customers. “It’s all about people you know and trust, who will give you great cover at the right price. We see things from our customers’ point of view, from their part of the country.” T: (NI) 028 9002 0419 W: www.axani.co.uk

The team at Axa’s Belfast office (from left), Kerry Graham, Branch Manager, with insurance advisors, Roberta Kennedy and Kerry Scott.

FREE BREAKDOWN ASSISTANCE

with AXA Van Insurance AXA Insurance limited is authorised by Central Bank of Ireland, and authorised and subject to limited regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority. Details about the extent of our authorisation and regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority are available from us on request.

108 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

vans

NOW MORE THAN EVER IT PAYS TO CONSIDER THE USED VAN OPTION…

Quality used vans from Bridge Commercials

hat’s the message from local van specialists, Bridge Commercials. But then there’s nothing new in that, it always has been the message! But as Director, Patrick Winter, explained, more and more individuals, and indeed companies, are paying attention. “And it’s not just the small and medium-sized companies that are taking advantage of the situation,” explained Patrick. “The larger companies are also going for the valueformoney option. In the last couple of weeks we have received an order for 22 used vans from a single source. “By opting for the quality used van option this company has saved themselves thousands and thousand of pounds. Even with a single van transaction you are talking major savings.” The change in buying habits has provided Bridge Commercials with a tremendous boost. “Our throughput is actually up 60% on the previous year,” confirmed Patrick. “When the recession first began to take hold sales were

www.elecmagazine.com

greatly down for everyone as people just weren’t updating or replacing their vans. More was simply being asked of the vehicles that they owned. “But now the realisation seems to have hit home that the used van option is a quality move that provides major cost savings, and the demand for quality used vans is being further boosted by the recent hike in the price of new models available on the market. “The price of new vans has shot up quite considerably in the last few months and even companies who previously only ever bought new are reconsidering their position.” Patrick added, “As a company we specialise in supplying high quality vans in excellent condition. Knowing that each of our vehicles undergoes a rigorous servicing and

inspection process adds peace of mind as well as exceptional value!” So what’s proving most popular in terms of price range? “At the moment our customers are looking for quality used vans in the 6,000 to 10,000 price bracket,” said Patrick. “And the good news is we can deliver on that.” For further information, contact Bridge Commercials by telephoning +44 (0)28 9268 9000 or log onto www.bridgecommercials.co.uk

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 109

new products

Cloud-based fire alarm management solution

Swift solution Title

n Fike Safety Technology (FST) has released Nimbus, a new solution for the monitoring and management of remote fire alarm systems over the internet. At the heart of the system is a cloud-based database, which receives data from fire alarm systems via the GPRS mobile network. In addition to FST’s own TWINFLEXpro and Duonet fire alarm systems, Nimbus also works with the majority of analogue addressable control panels from major manufacturers. T: (NI) 01633 865 558 or (RoI) 0044 1633 865 558 E: fstinfo@fike.com W: www.fikesafetytech.co.uk

n Legrand has launched a new innovative cable management component, developed to offer a fast-fit alternative to the traditional nut and bolt. Requiring no tools during installation, the new Swiftclip not only significantly reduces the number of components required, but also ensures installation times of at least four times faster than a nut and bolt solution. T: (NI) 0345 605 4333 or (RoI) 01 295 9673 W: www.legrand.co.uk

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

Mira’s wireless Advance simplifies wet rooms n Mira Showers has enhanced its ever-popular Advance electric shower range with the addition of the only shower on the market to offer wireless pairing to a waste water pump. The Mira Advance Flex Extra Wireless simplifies installing or retro-fitting a wet room in situations where a conventional gravity fed drainage system would be unfeasible, such as where level access is required. T: (NI) 0844 571 5000 or (RoI) 01 531 9337 W: www.mirashowers.co.uk

VI-15000 from Martindale takes safe isolation to another level

The clear choice for electrical inspection

n Available from Martindale Electric, the VI-15000 is part of the industry-standard range of voltage indicators, extending safe isolation procedures into higher voltage applications. The new VI-15000 has a 1000V CATIV safety rating and LED indication for AC/DC voltages from 50V to 690V and above, ensuring compliance with health and safety recommendations for safe working in all BS EN61010 installation categories. T: (NI) 01923 441717 or (RoI) 0044 1923 441717 W: www.martindale-electric.co.uk

n IRISS has introduced a range of unique infrared windows. The IRISS Platinum Series is a superior and clear, polymer alternative, which is impact resistant and carries an unlimited lifetime warranty. Platinum exceeds industry standards as the only IR window suitable for electrical inspection in the UV, visual and all three infrared spectrums. IRISS products are marketed in Ireland via their distributor Reg Farrell Engineering, Dublin. T: (RoI) 01 4659010 or (NI) 00353 1 4659010 E: info@rfe.ie W: www.rfe.ie

Mira and Whale wet room combo n Top specialists in adapting housing for the elderly and less able chose a unique shower/pump combination developed by two of the shower industry’s market leaders – Mira Showers and Whale, the specialist pump manufacturers – to produce a home suitable for a wheelchair user. The installer, EffectAble, selected the Advance Flex Extra shower (part of the range of Advance electric showers from Mira Showers) and the Instant Match Wireless Pump. T: (NI) 0844 571 5000 or (RoI) 01 531 9337 W: www.mirashowers.co.uk

110 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

www.elecmagazine.com

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

ESP introduces latest AHD technology to its new CCTV offer n ESP (Elite Security Products) Ltd has launched a brand new CCTV collection which introduces the very latest AHD (Analogue High Definition) technology and brings to market a professional, highly affordable CCTV range that delivers superior image quality. ESP’s comprehensive HDView CCTV Collection comprises a total of 40 new products including 14 High Definition CCTV Kits, 15 Digital Video Recorders and 9 Cameras. AHD is the most recently developed solution for transmitting full 720P HD digital video in a CCTV surveillance system. T: (NI) 01527 51 51 50 or (RoI) 00353 1 2811 122 W: www.espuk.com

New products

Avoid costly Title drilling mistakes with Hilti’s new PS 50 Multidetector n Hilti has launched the PS 50 Multidetector, a tough new tool which provides users with the most comprehensive insight into objects located in walls and floors. The system quickly and easily detects and classifies many different objects - including ferrous and non-ferrous metal, live wires, plastic pipes, underfloor heating pipes and other things like wood and cavities - in a variety of base materials such as hardened or fresh concrete, drywall and hollow brick. W: Watch the demonstration video at www.hilti. co.uk/ps50

Contactum unveils Amendment 3 compliant ‘Defender’ n The non-combustible Defender single phase consumer unit range from Contactum beats your average consumer unit with a styling that is aesthetically attractive, and still packs a punch with its versatility. This modern sleek design offers a comprehensive range comprising 12 different enclosures sizes. IP2X rated and compliant with BS7671 and 17th Edition Wiring Regulations, the Defender allows up to a 22 module board as standard and installers can combine boards to increase the number of outgoing ways. This flexible board configuration enables optimal combinations of RCD, MCB and RCBO use – there are even pre-populated configurations available. T: (NI) 0208 208 7419 or (RoI) 0044 208 208 7414 E: defender@contactum.co.uk W: www.connectnprotect.co.uk

Brand new signage Title solutions from Draper Tools

Versatile crossline laser is on the level

n Draper Tools has introduced a new signage range featuring over 70 different signs manufactured to BS 5499 standards. Each sign in the new Draper Tools range is made from UV and fade resistant inks for maximum durability and longevity. What’s more they are individually packed, allowing retailers to stock as many or as few as they need. The five distinct signage categories available include Safe Condition Signs; Mandatory Signs; Prohibition Signs; Fire Equipment Signs and Hazard Signs. W: Browse the full range at www.drapertools.com

n Stabila has extended its family of multiline laser levels, with the launch of the LAX400. Delivering an unrivalled level of accuracy and precision, this professional multi-line laser produces a 360° horizontal line for marking, alignment and levelling around the entire room. Featuring Stabila’s MANUALALIGNMENT technology, the LAX400 forms a 90° angle from two vertical lines, with the knob on the laser’s housing then used to finely adjust them manually for guaranteed accuracy. The laser lines can be pivoted to a target position without losing the position of the plumb-line dot. T: (NI) 0121 705 7987 or (RoI) 0044 121 705 7987 W: www.brianhyde.co.uk

Accept no imitations: professionals choose the KNIPEX VDE range n KNIPEX’s production methods and the equipment used for testing insulated tools are frequently examined, certified and monitored by the Association of German Electricians (VDE). Each design of KNIPEX insulated pliers is authorised by the independent VDE Institute concerning safety features before a type approval is granted. Added to all this are rigorous random tests. All of these production and test standards offer the greatest possible protection when working with a voltage up to 1000V AC and 1500V DC. W: www.knipex.com

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 111

directory

F E E L Our business PROTECTED is to protect WITH

Glenbank, 720 Crumlin Road, Belfast, BT14 8AD T: 028 9039 1000 F: 028 9039 1227 E: info@atlasfs.co.uk

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

BM ELECTRICAL WHOLESALE YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDANT ELECTRICAL WHOLE S A L E R

your interests Providing professional, cost effective, independent solutions to any fire and security project...

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

city electrical factors

WE’VE GOT IT COVERED PROVINCEWIDE STOCKISTS OF: • CABLES - Power, data, alarm, CCTV, fire rated • CABLE MANAGEMENT - PVC, steel, Dado, Basket • SWITCHGEAR - 250V and 500V Switchgear • EXTERIOR LIGHTING - Amenity, floodlighting • LIGHTING - Domestic, Commercial, Exterior • Lamps, LED, low energy, emergency lighting • Fire Alarms, Disabled Alarms and Refuge alarms • Security, CCTV, Door entry and Intruder Alarms • Wiring accessories, timers and controls • Ventilation, Space Heating & Water Heating • Power Tools, Hand Tools and Test Equipment • Work Wear and Protective Clothing • Crimping tools for sale and Hire HEAD OFFICE Ballycastle Road Industrial Estate - Ballycastle Road - Coleraine. T: +44 (0)28 7032 0888 - F: +44 (0)28 7032 0770 branches Pennybridge Industrial Estate - Ballymena. T: +44 (0)28 2565 4000 - F: +44 (0)28 2565 5000 Unit B2 Balliniska Business Park, Balliniska Road, Derry. T: +44 (0)28 7136 8822 - F: +44 (0)28 7136 8833

sales@bmelectricalwholesale.co.uk www.atlasfs.co.uk

www.bmelectricalwholesale.co.uk

Sligo Letterkenny Castlebar Finglas Mullingar Naas Red cow Dundalk Cork Waterford Limerick Tralee

Unit 9&10 Duncans Island, Finisklin, Co Sligo. T: (071) 9151820 Unit 2, Kiltoy, Letterkenny, Co Donegal. T: (074) 9106100 Unit 10 Castlebar Business Park, Breaffy Road, Castlebar, Co Mayo. T: (094) 9027196 Unit 25 Northpark, North Road, Dublin 11. T: (01) 8239000 Unit 12A Clonmore, Mullingar Buisness Park, Mullingar, Co Westmeath. T: (044) 9385515 Unit F3, N7 Business Park Naas, Co Kildare. T: (045) 4898099 Unit B1, JFK Trading Centre, John F Kennedy Rd, Dublin 12. T: (014) 242042 Unit 3, Butterly Business Park, Coes Rd, Dundalk, Co Louth. T: (042) 9327305 Units 8&9 Lehenaghbeg, Forge Hill Cross, Togher, Cork. T: (021) 4321820 Unit 10E, Six Crossroads Business Park, Waterford. T: (051) 372825 Unit K1, East Way Business Park, Ballysimon, Limerick. T: (061) 423310 Units 5,6 Westside, Monavally Industrial Estate, Tralee, Co Kerry. T: (066) 7103955

CABLE & ACCESSORIES (NI) LTD ELECTRICAL WHOLESALER

SUPPLIERS OF ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING MATERIALS TO ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS, LOCAL AUTHORITIES, FACTORIES ETC DISTRIBUTORS OF: • Thorn Lighting • MEM Switchgear • MK Accessories • Gewiss • Click • Avo • Trench Trunking System • Sensotec Fire Alarms & Emergency Lighting • GE Lamps & Tubes • Appleby • Crabtree • Pirelli Cables • Creda • Dimplex, Redring etc n Buncrana Unit 4A Milltown Business Park, Buncrana

Providing Cable Management, Medical Bedhead and Pendants, MV Heat Recovery, Plugable Power and Underfloor to Desk Power Solutions to the industry since 1981 Belfast Branch: Unit 3, Duncrue Industrial Park Duncrue Road, Belfast, BT3 9BP Tel: 028 9002 0066 F: 020 9002 1308 Email: amcgarrity@coreelectrical.com - www.coreelectrical.com Dublin Branch: 17b Goldenbridge Industrial Estate, Tyrconnell Road, Inchicore. Dublin 8. Ireland. Tel:+353(0)1 4537033 Fax:+353 (0)1 4538911 Email: sales@coreelectrical.ie - Web: www.coreelectrical.ie

Tel: +353 (0)74 9322569 - Fax: +353 (0)74 9321771

n OMAGH 53 Derry Road, Omagh

Tel: +44 (0)28 8225 2642 - Fax: +44 (0)28 8225 2645

n LIMAVADY 16 Connell Street, Limavady

Tel: +44 (0)28 7772 2188 - Fax: +44 (0)28 7776 8991

n DERRY Maydown Works, Derry

Tel: +44 (0)28 7186 0834 - Fax: +44 (0)28 7186 0834

n LETTERKENNY Fiesta Port Road, Letterkenny

Tel: +353 (0)749126788 - Fax: +353 (0)749126539

HEAD OFFICE... Springfarm Industrial Estate, Ballymena Road, Antrim, Northern Ireland BT41 4NZ Tel: 028 9446 4231 Fax: 028 9446 7109 energysolutions@blackbourne.co.uk

www.blackbourne.co.uk

112 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

Balliniska Business Park, Springtown Industrial Estate, Londonderry. T: +44 (0)28 7136 0110 - F: +44 (0)28 7126 3796

• Dublin Branch +353 (0)1 404 7700

• Tyrone Branch +44 (0)28 8772 5033

• Cork Branch +353 (0)21 435 5440

• Belfast Branch +44 (0)28 9075 6808

• Luton Branch: +44 (0)1582 848402

Email: info@cableandaccessories.co.uk www.cableandaccessories.co.uk

www.demesne.ie

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

directory

EEW

Ltd.

Electrical Wholesalers and distributors

ONE OF NORTHERN IRELAND’S LEADING SUPPLIERS TO THE ELECTRICAL TRADE NOW LOCATED AT:

NEWRY Unit 4, Campbells Yard, Belfast Road, Newry BT34 1QH T: +44 (0)28 3083 4050 F: +44 (0)28 3083 3295 E: newrysales@centuryelectrical.co.uk Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 8.00am - 5.00pm Sat 9.00am - 12.00pm

BELFAST DUNMURRY 207 City Business Park, Dunmurry, Belfast BT17 9HY T: +44 (0)28 9061 8666 F: +44 (0)28 9060 6788 (Sales) F: +44 (0)28 9060 6785 (Admin) E: belfastsales@centuryelectrical.co.uk

EEW Head Office Enniscorthy - T:+353 (0)53 9233494 Carlow - T:+353 (0)59-9142044 Tipperary - T:+353 (0)52-29819 Portlaoise - T:+353 (0)57-8672542 New Ross, Wexford - T:+353 (0)51-421916 Wicklow - T:+353 (0)402-29939 Wexford - T:+353 (0)53-9184656

www.eew.ie

Dungannon Electrical Wholesale

www.dungannonelectrical.co.uk

BELFAST EAST Century Electrical Wholesale Ltd, Unit B1 Portview Trade Centre, 310 Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 1HE T:+44 (0)28 9045 1056 F: +44 (0)028 9046 0662 E: belfasteast@centuryelectrical.co.uk Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 8.00am - 5.00pm

COOKSTOWN

Unit 5, Antrim Line Business Park, Sentry Lane, Mallusk, Newtownabbey, Co Antrim BT36 4XX Tel: +44 (0)28 9083 0303 - Fax: +44 (0)28 9083 0306 Email: info@eweni.co.uk

MAGHERAFELT BRANCH

Unit 1b, Loves Hill, Castledawson Road, Magherafelt BT45 8DP Tel: +44 (0)28 7946 9600 - Fax: +44 (0)28 9746 9699 Email: sales@eweni.co.uk

SUPPLIERS OF:

New eCommerce Website

Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 7.30am - 5.00pm

MALLUSK BRANCH

• Wide range of items in stock • Pay via card or account • Same day delivery (see website for details) • Click and collect orders from 7.30am • Technical datasheets attached to a large number of products

WINNER

NORTHERN IRELAND ELECTRICAL AWARDS 2013 BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE WHOLESALER OF THE YEAR Opening Hours: Mon-Thurs 7.30am - 5.30pm Fri 7.30am - 4.30pm - Sat 9.00am - 12 noon

www.electricalwholesaleexpress.co.uk

EST 1972

the one-stop-shop for the electrical trade

Sandholes Road, Kilcronagh Business Park, Cookstown BT80 9HG T: +44 (0)28 8676 2626 F: +44 (0)28 8676 2425 E: cookstownsales@centuryelectrical.co.uk

HEAD OFFICE Euro Sales - Ringsend 9 Fitzwilliam Street, Ringsend, Dublin 4. Tel: 01-6680477 - Fax: 01-6680854 E-Mail: info@eurosales.ie

Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 8.00am - 5.00pm Sat 9.00am - 12.00pm

BRANCHES AT Euro Sales - Sandyford Unit 1G, Block 2. Three Rock Road, Sandyford Industrial Estate, Dublin 18. Tel: 01-2959611 - Fax: 01-2959613 E-Mail: sandyford@eurosales.ie

www.eurosales.ie

ENNISKILLEN Killyhevlin Industrial Estate, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh BT74 4EJ. T: +44 (0)28 6632 6555 F: +44 (0)28 6632 8585 E: enniskillensales@centuryelectrical.co.uk

Serving the Electrical Industry

Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 8:00am to 5:00pm

QUALITY PR OD UC TS COMPETITIVE P R IC E S EXCELLENT DELIV E R Y S E R V IC E www.centuryelectrical.co.uk

www.elecmagazine.com

Dungannon Electrical Wholesale 199 Killyman Road, Dungannon, BT71 6RR Telephone: +44 (0)28 87729787 Fax: +44 (0)28 87752166

www.dungannonelectrical.co.uk

Euro Sales - Glasnevin 100 Slaney Road, Dublin Industrial Estate, Dublin 11. Tel: 01-8300937 - Fax: 01-8300966 E-Mail: slaney@eurosales.ie Contact the Lighting Department direct Tel: 01-8500668 - Fax: 01-8300911 E-Mail: lamps@eurosales.ie

www.eurosales.ie ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 113

directory

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

directory

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

wsm

Mullingar Branch

Northern Ireland’s Leading independent electrical Wholesaler

30 Clonmore Business Park, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath T:+353 44 9343040 - F:+353 44 9343517 Email: sales@mullingarelectrical.com

WALTER S. MERCER

Longford Electrical Wholesale 3 Cartronageeragh Business Park, Athlone Road, Co. Longford T: +353 43 334 6380 - F: +353 43 3346 381 Email: longford@mullingarelectrical.com

“Competitive Prices, First Class Service, Products and Staff” • Ultra modern trade counter & lighting showroom • Next day delivery to anywhere in Northern Ireland • Same day delivery service • Call and collect service • Open Saturdays 9.00am – 12.30pm • Branches also in Mainland UK • Supplying the trade for over 100 years

Midland Electrical Wholesale

Units 11 & 12 Duncrue Industrial Estate Duncrue Road, Belfast BT3 9BW Tel: +44 (0)28 9037 1888 Fax: +44 (0)28 9037 1471

5 Sragh Business Park, Tullamore, Co. Offaly T:+353 57 9351561 - F:+353 57 9323748 Email: tullamore@mullingarelectrical.com

wsm

WALTER S. MERCER

North East Electrical Wholesale 11 North Link Business Park, Inner Relief Road, Dundalk, Co. Louth T:+353 42 9328472 - F:+353 42 9328784

Also Visit

THE

facebook.com/ kewelectrical

twitter.com/ edsandeds

KEW ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTORS LTD. T/A Eds & Eds Ltd, 385 Holywood Road, Belfast, BT4 2LS T: +44 (0)28 9047 1727 • F: +44 (0)28 9047 1153 E: belfast@kewelectrical.co.uk

www.kewelectrical.co.uk

T:+44 (0)28 9047 1727

LIGHTING

SHOWROOM

1 Clonmore Business Park, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, Ireland T:+353 44 9343299 / 9341781 - F:+353 44 9341805 E: lighting@mullingareletrical.com

MANUFACTURER OF LED LIGHTING

GREENER, BRIGHTER... BETTER!

www.mullingarelectrical.com Your local electrical wholesaler

FaIRley & SMyth E lectrical W holesalers L td

Suppliers of:Cables, Heating, Lighting, Fans, Switchgear, Showers, Decorative Wiring Accessories etc

Tel: +44 (0)28 9077 5888 Fax: +44 (0)28 9077 2100 Unit 7, Duncrue Crescent, Duncrue Ind Est, Belfast BT3 9BW Email: sales@fairleysmyth.co.uk

For a friendly & reliable service

86-88 Dargan Crescent, Belfast Suppliers of:

T: 028 9039 6945 - F: 0191 4999626

PHILIPS • MK • CED • DIMPLEX • GE • HKC • UTC Fire & Security • ABB • ACT • DRAKA

E: info@polarisled.com

www.polarisled.com

HEAD OFFICE Unit 46 Rosemount Business Park, Ballycoolin, Dublin 11 T: +353 (0)1-2541900 - F: +353 (0)1-2541925 new@new.ie Bray Branch Unit 48 Beechwood Close, Boghall Road, Bray Co Wicklow T: +353 (0)1 2453970 - F: +353 (0)1 2116200 Cork Branch Unit 16/17, Northlink Bus Park, Old Mallow Road, Cork, T: +353 (0)21-2432990 - F: +353 (0)21-4396966 Naas Branch Unit B4 M7 Business Park, Newhall, Naas, Co. Kildare T: +353 (0)45-895896 - F: +353 (0)45-895898 Ballymount Branch Unit 3B Sunbury Ind. Est. Ballymount Road, Lower Walkinstown, Dublin 12 T: +353 (0)1-4567100 - F: +353 (0)1-4566366

www.new.ie 114 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

296e North Circular Road, Phibsboro, Dublin 7. T: +353 (0)1 868 2033 F: +353 (0)1 838 8529 E: info@pewl.ie

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT 11 june, derry/L’Derry (SEE PAGE 45)

directory

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

Your ‘other’ Warehouse Specialist Distributor of Lamps and Control Gear to the Electrical Wholesale Trade

PLUS 2 TO 6 CELL EMERGENCY BATTERY STICKS AND PACKS

Unit 13, Duncrue Industrial Park, Belfast, BT3 9BP T: +44 (0)28 9077 1506 E: belfast@stearn.co.uk www.stearn.co.uk

TO ADVERTISE HERE, PLEASE contact JANICE UPRICHARD T: (NI) 028 9261 2990 T: (RoI) 01 696 8319 or email janice@kmpltd.co.uk

www.elecmagazine.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 115

y t i l bi i x le f d n a ts c u d ro p , e c i v r great se 1

WALSALL Unit 1 24 Ballyrashane Road Coleraine BT52 2NL T: 44 (0)28 7035 6226 E: coleraine.379@eel.co.uk

WALSALL Mahon Industrial Estate Mahon Road Portadown BT62 3EH T: 44 (0)28 3833 5316 E: portadown.372@eel.co.uk

WALTER S MERCER Unit 17b Pennybridge Industrial Estate Ballymena BT42 3HB T: 44 (0)28 2564 1511 E: ballymena.387@eel.co.uk

WALTER S MERCER Mahon Industrial Estate Mahon Road Portadown BT62 3EH T: 44 (0)28 3833 5215 E: portadown.388@eel.co.uk

WALTER S MERCER Unit 11-12 Duncrue Industrial Estate Belfast BT3 9BW T: 44 (0)28 9037 1888 E: belfast.386@eel.co.uk THE ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT COMPANY 58 Boucher Place Belfast BT12 6HT T: 44 (0)28 9066 1177 E: belfast.244@eel.co.uk

wsm

Walter S. Mercer

IN NORTHERN IRELAND OVER 200 YEARS OF HISTORY AN UNBEATABLE AND UNRIVALLED SERVICE

WALSALL

The Electrical Equipment Company

Providing a dedicated SERVICE to trade and industry A wide range of quality electrical PRODUCTS and services Total management FLEXIBILITY from all our branches