Electrical Issue 55 by Karen McAvoy Publishing

AVAILABLE THROUGH LEADING ELECTRICAL WHOLESALERS

CONTENTS

In this issue...

Issue 55 - May/June 2016

News & Views

66-67

LED Group ROBUS in Frankfurt

solutions

Harvey Group’s Project of the Year

ECA and JIB providing support

Construction Contract Act passes

Crown Industries bound for Euro 2016

42-45 Reports on the state of the industry 53

People profile, John Nesbitt, Atlas

73-75

ETT launches business improvement courses

New energy efficiency regulations

Timeguard’s smart wall switches

Latest products from Scolmore

CPDs from Draka and Precision

Cables

FEATURES 12-13

AJ Hurst at Almac

24-39

National Stadium at Windsor Park,

Belfast 48-49

3 Head Office, Dublin

54-59

Company profile – PMcK Electrical

PRODUCTS

68-69

Company profile – Specialised Fire

& Security

64 New catalogue from LED Group Robus

77-85

Waterfront Exhibition and

Conference Centre, Belfast

ESP unveils Aperta access control

range

20 End of employer-led apprenticeships

Metartec’s containerised UPS

Overvoltage overlooked

24 THE TEAM: Managing Director Karen McAvoy Publication & Events Manager Janice Uprichard Managing Editor, Print & Digital Adam Hassin Editorial Diane Day | RoI Correspondent Denise Maguire Head Designer Julie Anne Guiney | Design & Digital Jo Wilson Accounts Michelle Owens Photography Gordon McAvoy | Printed by W&G Baird

CONTACT US: The Forge, 13b Lisburn Road, Moira BT67 0JR T: Moira: 028 9261 2990 T: Dublin: 01 696 8319 E: electrical@kmpltd.co.uk www.elecmagazine.com

Reproduction of whole or in part of this publication, without prior permission from Karen McAvoy Publishing Ltd, is strictly prohibited.

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ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 3

NEWS

ROBUS FLIES THE IRISH FLAG AT LIGHT + BUILDING

SCHOOL’S (NOT) OUT FOR SUMMER

LED Group ROBUS represented Ireland at Light + Building, the world’s biggest event for lighting and electrical technology, which saw 216,000 trade visitors from 160 countries over six days. The ROBUS stand showcased the company’s ranges of LED energy saving solutions including the new 6W and 11W versions of the successful 8W Triumph Activate LED fire rated downlight. Other attractions on the stand were the new EAGLE and HAWK LED surface fittings, the new ROBUS outdoor range of JUPITER and ORION bollards and wall lights as well as the range of linear fittings

Schools in Cork, Wicklow, East Carlow, Louth and other areas of the country are set to benefit from funding for vital gas works and electrical upgrades. The funding has been announced as part of a €30 million investment in over 197 schools nationally under the multi-annual Summer Works Scheme (2016-2017). The purpose of the Scheme is to devolve funding to individual school authorities to undertake small-scale building works which, ideally, can be carried out during the summer months or at other times that avoid disrupting the operation of the school. Five schools from Cork are set to receive funding to improve and upgrade existing school buildings – Freemount Mixed National School, Scoil Abán Naofa, Baile Mhic Ire, Scoil Naomh Eoin Baiste, Ballincollig, Scoil Naisiunta Naomh Mhuire Farran and Freemount Mixed National School Charleville. The Scheme encourages schools to engage local contractors to carry out the works, therefore boosting the local economy. Thirteen schools in the Wicklow/East Carlow region are to receive funds including Delgany NS; Jonathan Swift NS, Dunlavin; Scoil San Eoin, Redcross; Shillelagh No 1 NS; Annacurra NS; Scoil An Choroin Mhuire (Holy Rosary), Wicklow town; Scoil Nicolais Naofa, Dunlavin; Crossbridge NS; Scoil Mhuire Na Naird, Shillelagh; Blessington Educate Together; St John’s Senior School, Arklow; Scoil Chonglais, Baltinglass and Coláiste Eoin, Hacketstown.

CAESAR, SCHOLAR and MAGNUM. The event also saw the launch of the new 2016 ROBUS Catalogue, the largest yet with over 30 new products added to the range. T: (RoI) 01 709 9000 or (NI) 00353 1 709 9000 W: www.ledgrouprobus.com

SEAN AHERN ELECTRICAL HELPS CLEANS UP CORK Members of the Construction Industry Federation, including Sean Ahern Electrical Ltd, have volunteered to take part in several regeneration projects around Cork city centre. In conjunction with the Cork Foundation and Re-Imagine Cork, other firms involved in the works include P.J. Hegarty & Sons, Purcell Scaffolding Cork Ltd, Substruck Ltd, Edward Feehely Decorators Ltd, O’Shea’s Builders (Cork) Ltd and MMD Construction Cork Ltd. Upcoming projects include ‘Lighting the Lanes’, a project being carried out by Sean Ahern Electrical Ltd in Dalton’s Lane, Colman’s Lane, Daltons Avenue, Dalton’s Avenue and Augustine’s Street. Other work being undertaken includes painting at Grattan Street Carpark (painting contractor Eddie Feehilly with paint sponsored by Pat McDonnell Paints) and

TRAINING WORKS

an installation of ‘History of Cork Art Mural’ in Grattan Street Carpark (installation by O’Shea Builders Ltd & PJ Hegarty & Sons Ltd). The aim of the projects is to get the public using these historic public spaces in even greater numbers which will help enhance not only the public realm for the residents of Cork City Centre but also enhance the visitor experience to what is Cork city centre’s historic core. T: (RoI) 021 427 3227 or (NI) 00353 21 427 3227

HOME ENERGY SAVING KITS LAUNCHED Developed by energy agency Codema, Dublin home-owners can now access home energy saving kits free-of-charge from 10 library branches across the city. The kits contain six practical tools to help the public save energy at home with items in the kits addressing three key areas of energy use in the home - space heating, hot water and electricity consumption - to help identify common problems that might be driving up electricity bills.

Ballymena: Units 57-59, Ballymena Business Centre, 62 Fenaghy Road, Ballymena, Armagh: Armagh Business Centre, 2 Loughgall Road, Armagh T: (NI) 028 2565 0750 – T: (RoI) 048 2565 0750 – E: enquiries@ett-ni.org www.ett-ni.org

• APPRENTICE • ELECTRICAL • BUSINESS • HEALTH & SAFETY

4 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

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NEWS

HARVEY GROUP CELEBRATES AS WWIEM NAMED PROJECT OF THE YEAR

SEC CALLS FOR MORE CASH FLOW SECURITY

A project that Harvey Group played an integral role in has been named as the Project of the Year at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Awards 2016, Northern Ireland. The WellcomeWolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, situated in the grounds of Belfast City Hospital, won the Design through Innovation award before being crowned Project of the Year at the annual awards, which showcase and reward projects from across Northern Ireland. Harvey Group was the M&E contractor for this project that highlighted the effectiveness of Building Information Modelling. The Judges said, “This is a high-quality building housing laboratories, offices and meeting rooms for this international research organisation… Innovatively, the building has been designed on an ‘insideout’ basis… conducive to collaborative working. The building is finished to a very high standard and the achievement of a BREEAM Excellent certification is laudable.” Ben Collins, RICS Director, Northern Ireland, said, “Once again, we have seen some of the best new builds, infrastructure projects, community schemes, and restoration initiatives from the last few years take the spotlight at our annual

The Specialist Engineering Contractors’ (SEC) Group Northern Ireland has set out the list of priorities in its manifesto for the construction industry, to be addressed by policy makers in the next Northern Ireland Executive. These priorities are aimed at removing wasteful practices in order to make the industry more efficient; enabling SMEs to realise their full growth potential; and improving standards across the industry. SEC Group’s Northern Ireland National Executive Officer, Alfie Watterson said, “The overriding priority for the next Northern Ireland Executive, as far as construction is concerned, is to put in place effective measures to ensure that SMEs have cash flow security.” W: www.secgroup.org.uk

awards, and we are delighted to be able to highlight the exceptional work of the surveyors and other property professionals behind the projects.” RICS Awards Judging Chairman, Alistair Dunn, added, “This was a competitive year for the RICS Awards in Northern Ireland. Our judges were blown away by the standard of the entries from stately homes to family homes, cross-community projects to buildings that are making a difference in education, medicine and culture. “The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute is a worthy winner for its breakthrough in innovation, helping emphasise Northern Ireland’s credentials as a hub for critical medical research.” The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute and the other winners will now progress as finalists to the national RICS Awards gala evening in London later in the year. T: Harvey Group on (NI) 028 9034 2444 or (RoI) 048 9034 2444 W: www.harveygroup.co.uk

OPTIONS FOR NEW ‘ENERGYWISE’ ENERGY EFFICIENCY SCHEME The Department for Enterprise, Trade and Investment is examining options for a new energy efficiency scheme that could provide energy savings for local properties. It is being developed by DETI in collaboration with DSD and OFMDFM, and with support from the Utility Regulator. Subject to funding availability and the

TRAINING WORKS

necessary approvals, EnergyWise will replace the Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP) when it ends in March 2017. The EnergyWise Scheme is a multistakeholder energy improvements programme aimed at households, businesses and the voluntary and community sectors.

‘The Apprentice’ winner, Joseph Valente.

APPRENTICE WINNER SIGNS UP WITH NICEIC ‘The Apprentice’ winner, Joseph Valente, has signed up with NICEIC – the UK’s leading voluntary regulatory body for the electrical contracting industry. Joseph was named the winner of the hit BBC show, ‘The Apprentice’ last year. That victory earned him the backing of Lord Sugar and he is using his support to expand his plumbing, heating and electrical business, Impra Gas. Joseph admitted that, as the nation’s leading and most recognised certification body, NICEIC approval was vital to expanding his business. W: www.niceic.com

• APPRENTICE • ELECTRICAL • BUSINESS • HEALTH & SAFETY

6 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

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Upskill your qualifications with CCTS... Fully accredited company offering training to the electrical industry Courses available: • • • • • •

Domestic Electrical Installer (DEI) covering electrical work as outlined in Part P Building Regulation and complies with BS7671:2008 (2015) City & Guilds Portable Appliance Testing (2377-22) requirements for electrical installation 17th Edition IET Wiring Regulations BS7671:2008 incorporating Amendment No3 (2015) (new yellow book) 2394/5 Testing & Inspection Courses Solar PV 17th Edition one-day upgrade to 3rd Amendment

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For a full list of training courses please contact CCTS UNIT 4-6 TAMAR COMMERCIAL CENTRE, 25 TAMAR STREET, BELFAST BT4 1HR.

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JIB

ECA AND JIB TEAM UP TO PROVIDE COMMERCIAL AND EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT, HELPING ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS OF ALL SIZES, RIGHT ACROSS THEIR BUSINESS…

Growing business? Take the next step

or many contracting firms, starting the business and growing your customer base is the first step. But, once that’s established and you’re becoming successful – what’s next? Keeping up-to-date with the latest industry standards and regulations can be a challenge, especially when you’re also working to secure new clients and run day-to-day projects. As you employ more people, making sure you attract and retain the best staff also becomes increasingly vital. That’s why the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) and the Joint Industry Board (JIB) have teamed up to provide commercial and employment support. JIB offers best practice employment terms that meet industry standards and free access to mediation services, should disputes occur. Holding onto your team is helped by the JIB Welfare Benefit Scheme which includes Bupa, life insurance, sick pay and other benefits.

8 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

From the ECA you’ll receive expert technical guidance and a comprehensive range of business support. Member benefits include financial protection under the ECA Guarantee of Work scheme, contracts and legal support, member exclusive industry discounts, a free online risk assessment and method statement system (eRAMS), and employment law helpline. If you’re already a member of the ECA, the optional JIB membership is available to your business for free. “In today’s busy work environment, businesses wanting to grow and flourish need all the help that’s available to them,”

said Alfie Watterson, ECA Regional Manager and JIB representative. “Joining the JIB and ECA provides a great deal of support and shows customers and staff that your business is on another level.” T: 07971 141911 E: alfie.watterson@eca.co.uk W: www.jib.org.uk

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EIC GOLF

WORLD-CLASS GOLF VENUE IN COUNTY KILDARE IS SETTING FOR TWO-DAY FUN EVENT IN AID OF A GOOD CAUSE…

Book your place now for the EIC two-day golf extravaganza

eam up with the Electrical Industries Charity and compete among the best golfers in the industry at one of the most prestigious venues in Northern Ireland, while also helping a very worthy cause. The annual golf event is a two-day golf extravaganza at Carton House in Maynooth in County Kildare on Sunday, September 25

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and Monday 26. Home to two of Ireland’s finest championship golf courses, the venue and facilities guarantee a memorable experience, whatever your golfing skills This year’s event is proudly sponsored by Dowds Group, and funds raised will go towards supporting the family of former Dowds employee, Christopher Hendrie who tragically passed away in 2014.

The Hendrie family’s life changed within a period of just 10 days in 2014. On August 25, Christopher and his wife Gillian found out that they were expecting their third child, but their happiness was short-lived as 10 days later Christopher was diagnosed with an extremely rare form of cancer. Nine weeks later after having intensive radiation and chemotherapy treatments, Christopher sadly passed away on October 31, with his wife by his side and without seeing the birth of his third child. The Electrical Industries Charity aims to raise £100,000 to help the Hendrie family to re-build their lives, and all money raised by EIC at Northern Ireland events throughout 2016/2017 will support the family. To book your place at the two-day golf extravaganza, telephone Gary Boyd at Brian Somers Travel on 028 9751 1232, or e-mail gary@bryansomers.co.uk

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 9

NEWS

CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS ACT FINALLY PASSES

TURNER & TOWNSEND TO DELIVER £107M BELFAST WASTE TO ENERGY PLANT Global construction consultancy, Turner & Townsend, has been reappointed by Equitix Management Services to support with client representation services to construct a new £107million energy-from-waste facility. When complete, the plant will help to reduce landfill within Northern Ireland and Scotland. The facility will produce 14.85MW of cheap electricity to partly service Bombardier Aerospace, which is located next to the plant in the east of the city with any surplus power going to the grid. Orla Carew, Associate Director for Turner & Townsend, said, “We’re immensely proud to be involved in such an ambitious, environmentally-sensitive project which will not only reduce landfill waste in the region but also help cut Bombardier’s energy bill by a quarter. Our expertise and knowledge in project and cost management services assisted in ensuring the pre-financial close phase ran smoothly and was ultimately successful.”

According to Neil Springett, Managing Director of Equitix Management Services, the news is hugely significant for Northern Ireland’s waste management sector. “We are delighted Turner & Townsend is onboard again to assist in delivering such a critical piece of infrastructure which will turn waste into energy.” T: : (RoI) 01 400 3300 or (NI) 00353 1 400 3300 W: www.turnerandtownsend.com

COMMUNITIES TO TAKE A STAKE IN NEW RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECTS Communities are to be offered the opportunity to invest in renewable energy projects under proposals being developed by Energy Co-operatives Ireland (ECI), a renewable energy consultancy promoting community access to the benefits of renewable energy. The firm said options were being explored in relation to solar farms generating up to 5MW of power, which would produce electricity for the equivalent of 4,000 homes. The move comes amid growing concern from rural communities about large-scale renewable energy projects, particularly wind, being imposed upon them with no community gain. Under the model

TRAINING WORKS

Tom Parlon, the Director General of the Construction Industry Federation (CIF), has welcomed the signing of the Construction Contracts Act by Minister for Business and Employment, Ged Nash. The Act provides, subject to some exceptions, new minimum contractual provisions concerning payment arrangements between the parties to a construction contract. Where payment disputes do arise between the parties to a construction contract, either party will have the right to refer the payment dispute for adjudication, which will be concluded within a set timeframe. CIF President, Michael Stone, said: “This Act will benefit the entire supply chain by bringing more certainty to contracts and dispute resolution in the industry. The sector is in recovery mode and this Act will help companies plan, budget and invest more accurately in meeting Ireland’s increasing economic demands.” CIF will be providing high-level training and briefings, to prepare companies for the new legislation. For more information, telephone 01 406 6000, e-mail contact@cif.ie or visit www.cif.ie CIF President, Michael Stone

proposed by ECI, developers would meet the full costs of development including design, environmental assessment, planning and grid access. Once the project is given the green light, the community would be offered the opportunity to invest. The firm said a possible return on investment would be 6% per annum. “The exact percentage ownership by a community will vary depending on the size of the project,” ECI chief executive Cormac Walsh said. He added there will also be a free gratis percentage figure of the project diverted to the local energy co-operative at the very centre of the development. Ballymena: Units 57-59, Ballymena Business Centre, 62 Fenaghy Road, Ballymena, Armagh: Armagh Business Centre, 2 Loughgall Road, Armagh T: (NI) 028 2565 0750 – T: (RoI) 048 2565 0750 – E: enquiries@ett-ni.org www.ett-ni.org

• APPRENTICE • ELECTRICAL • BUSINESS • HEALTH & SAFETY

10 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

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LIGHTING CASE STUDY

AJ HURST PROVIDES A VALUE-FOR-MONEY, ENERGY-EFFICIENT SOLUTION TO ALMAC WITH DEXECO’S BESPOKE LED RETROFIT LIGHTING…

AJ Hurst and Dextra provide perfect prescription for Almac’s lighting needs

lobal pharmaceutical giant, Almac, is enjoying significant lighting energy savings at its Craigavon headquarters thanks to the latest partnership between AJ Hurst and Dextra Lighting. A market leader in the supply of lighting, electrical control and automation, energy and power products, AJ Hurst Ltd provided a bespoke lighting solution for Almac using energy-efficient lighting from Dexeco (part of the Dextra Group). The collaboration for this successful project came about following a study by Almac’s management team on the existing efficiencies associated with lighting within its clinical services’ secondary production facility in Craigavon. This was prompted by key issues concerning the variable quality of the existing lighting and high running and maintenance costs. Due to the pharmaceutical industry’s strict

hygiene regulations and procedures, the luminaires in the production rooms were installed in unventilated enclosures to ensure full access for cleaning, and were to be left untampered. The problem, however, was that, over time, the resulting heat build-up affected the lumen maintenance and control functions of each fixture, causing discoloured diffusers, reduced lifespan of control gear and lamps and an increased failure rate of components. To keep light levels at the required levels for each area, Almac had to adopt expensive, and often disruptive, maintenance routines to frequently change lamps and perform repairs. Keen to resolve these lighting problems promptly and cost-effectively, Almac Clinical Services contacted several companies to provide samples and quotes for the new lighting. Out of the list of competitors, AJ Hurst won the contract by proposing to

retrofit Dexeco’s customised LED gear trays into the production room’s existing housing enclosures. The advantage of this approach is that it significantly lowers the total cost of ownership of the installation, avoiding the expense and impracticality of completely replacing the luminaires or altering the ceiling’s infrastructure.

BESPOKE SOLUTION “From its inception it became apparent that an ‘out-of-the-box’ solution was not going to be an option as a number of obstacles had to be overcome,” explained Bill Gray, Business Development Manager at AJ Hurst. “The main challenge we faced with the project was the clean environment in which the fittings were located. The existing enclosure housings were unventilated and had to remain in place in compliance with the strict pharmaceutical industry’s

What really made AJ Hurst’s solution unique against the competition was the complete ‘in-house’ package it offered. 12 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

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LIGHTING CASE STUDY

procedures. We had to come up with a bespoke solution that could be retrofitted into these existing housings. An additional benefit of being able to do this meant that any potential damage to the ceilings could be prevented.” AJ Hurst surveyed the site and supplied Almac with a detailed audit and designs to suit the company’s specific needs; this included a plan to adapt the existing equipment by removing the PL55s, control gear, wiring and diffuser. “A detailed installation schedule was also agreed, allowing us to install the new panels over a number of consecutive weekends to minimise operational disruption,” said Bill. As an added service, AJ Hurst arranged for Dexreco (Dextra Group’s waste management subsidiary) to collect the used fittings free of charge and to recycle them in compliance with the current WEEE legislation.”

SUSTAINABLE SYSTEM Upgrading to LED was the first step by Almac towards a more sustainable system as, when compared to fluorescent lamps, high-quality LED chips are more power-efficient, have far longer lifespans, and have

an extended lumen maintenance (maintaining their light intensity for longer). The reliability and long life of the latest Lumileds LEDs used in Dexeco’s products will, therefore, ensure that the installation at Almac will perform as it was intended to for longer, providing uniform light levels throughout the premises, with minimal maintenance. The solution was to replace the existing 3 x 55 Watt PL lamps (183 Watts per fitting) with a made-tomeasure, surface-mounted MODS L35 LED fitting from Dexeco. Each of these fittings gives a 3,500 lumen output at 26.8 Watts. A total of 310 fittings were supplied and installed, with minimum disruption to staff and production. The 310 fittings included 67 emergency fittings and 15 dimmable luminaires, which were used in areas where light-sensitive products are handled, and where previously light filters had to be applied each time the products were used. As a result, the lighting load has reduced from over 51kW to approximately 8kW. A t 70% utilisation, the electricity saving

AJ Hurst, Unit 10, Graham Industrial Park, Dargan Crescent, Belfast, BT3 9LP T: (NI) 028 9077 0037 or (RoI) 048 9077 0037 – E: online-sales@ajhurst.com www.ajhurst.com – Twitter: @AJHurstElectric

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is almost £400 per week (£21,000 per year approximately), and the payback on investment is less than 1.5 years.

MINIMUM DISRUPTION “Dexeco’s products will, ensure that the installation at Almac will perform as it was intended to for longer, providing uniform light levels throughout the premises, with minimal maintenance.”

Installation was carried out by AJ Hurst quickly and efficiently, over consecutive weekends, to minimise disruption to Almac’s manufacturing operations, whilst closely abiding by the strict regulatory procedures of the site’s controlled environments. What really made AJ Hurst’s solution unique against the competition was the complete ‘in-house’ package it offered, as well as the impressive list of ‘blue chip’ clients it has already worked with. Other companies had to rely on a third party to either audit, advise or install, but with AJ Hurst the project was carried out entirely by its own personnel, giving the client reassurance that its project was in expert hands. The outcome has been highly successful, with production staff at Almac now able to appreciate the even light levels within the production rooms, whilst management are very satisfied with the reduction in both electricity and maintenance costs.

ANNIVERSARY 1936 - 2016

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 13

ANNIVERSARY 1936 - 2016

CLIPLINE Complete AJ Hurst and Phoenix Contact are pleased to announce the arrival of our CLIPLINE complete terminal offer for System Builders to Northern Ireland. The full range of Screw, Spring and Push-in terminals plus accessories are now stocked extensively in Belfast with extremely competitive supported pricing available for system builders. In addition to this we have a full range of marking systems available allowing you total flexibility for your terminal, cable and device marking. These printers are available for purchase, loan or on a two month trial*. CLIPLINE - The complete range for panel builders and system integrators. *subject to availability

For further information contact approved distributor, AJ Hurst on 028 9077 0037 or visit www.phoenixcontact.co.uk

NEWS

Thomas Fulton, Senior Technical Engineer, Crown Industries, Simon Murray, Strategic Development Director, Crown Industries, and Craig Stanfield, Operations Manager, Irish Football Association (IFA). Crown Industries is providing the IFA with IT and communication support services at Euro 2016.

FOLLOWING ON FROM HIS WORK AT THE NATIONAL STADIUM, CROWN’S SENIOR TECHNICAL ENGINEER IS BOUND FOR MAJOR FINALS...

Crown Industries to support IFA at Euro 2016

here has been much publicity and debate of late about the scramble for tickets for Northern Ireland’s Group qualifying matches at Euro 2016 in France. No such problems for Thomas Fulton, the Crown Industries’ Senior Technical Engineer, who, fresh from his involvement in the National Stadium project at Windsor Park in Belfast, will provide critical IT and Communication Support services for Northern Ireland media, Irish FA staff, players and management on the ground in France. The Irish FA has commissioned Crown Industries to provide and support a fully functioning wired and wireless solution in the media centre in Saint-Georges-deReneins, situated just outside Lyon and to support the network at the players’ hotel in Saint-Jean-d’Ardières. Craig Stanfield, Operations Manager at the Irish Football Association, sees the services provided by Crown as an integral part of the support team for Euro 2016. Craig added, “Thomas has been a pleasure to work with throughout the European Qualifiers campaign and, in

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difficult circumstances due to the ongoing construction work at the stadium, he has been very attentive and supportive of our needs. We engaged with Thomas to ensure we had the correct infrastructure in place and to liaise directly with the various French service providers to ensure we got the best deals for the internet circuits required for our various departments while in France. This gave us the assurance tthat he media, staff and our national team are fully catered for in all areas of IT.“ Regarding the upcoming Euro 2016 finals in France Craig also added, “I had no hesitation in approaching Thomas when I was made aware of our responsibility in providing high quality internet and support services at our media centre and team base camp hotel.” Commenting on the appointment to support the IFA and playing squad at the European Finals in France, Simon Murray, Strategic Development Director at Crown, lauded the recognition of specialist services expertise in this field and the concept of the added value offering in making this a reality. “It’s nice to be recognised by the IFA not

only for the IP infrastructure works at the new National Stadium, but also as a trusted, technically-competent partner that can provide mission critical support services to the players and staff in France. “Be it pre-match press conferences, on-site stadium support or post-match analysis and interviews, Crown will be there to ensure that everything runs smoothly. There is such a fantastic buzz around Northern Ireland’s involvement in the tournament and it’s really nice to be involved in supporting our boys in Green. We wish them all every success!” T: 0845 2772200 – W: www.crownind.co.uk

“The Irish FA has commissioned Crown Industries to provide and support a fully functioning wired and wireless solution in the media centre in SaintGeorges-de-Reneins situated just outside Lyon.” ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 17

ELECTRICAL TRADE EVENT

POPULAR EVENT WILL RETURN TO DUBLIN IN OCTOBER AND INCLUDE LEADING EXHIBITORS FROM RIGHT ACROSS THE INDUSTRY…

Ireland’s leading electrical trade event will be bigger and better than ever!

reland’s popular Electrical Trade Event returns to the Citywest Hotel, Dublin this year on Wednesday, 5 and Thursday, 6 October - and the good news for everyone is that it just keeps getting bigger and better! The organiser, Ireland’s Electrical Magazine, has established a winning formula that ensures both exhibitors and visitors return year after year to support the industry’s leading trade event in Ireland. Show organiser, Janice Uprichard, said, “When we first set up the show back in 2013 we knew there was a demand for an event such as this, but we could never have dreamed it would be the huge success it has undoubtedly become. “We have no trouble attracting top companies and trade bodies to attend the show as they can easily see the valuable opportunities it provides the crowds that turn up each year are testament to that. We have worked hard to produce an event that has something for everyone and that has wide industry appeal.” Visitors to the event will be able to find out about the latest innovations and products across a wide range of sectors, including residential, education, health, leisure, manufacturing, ecclesiastical and others. Lauded by those in the industry as the

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perfect platform for building business, one of the main attractions is the chance to meet with so many people from the industry under one roof. Exhibitors can meet with customers from across the sector, including electrical contractors and engineers, consultants, builders, architects, specifiers, wholesalers and specialist suppliers. It will also be useful for those working in Government, Public Sector, health, facilities management and social housing. Visitors also have the chance to find out about the latest developments and, more importantly, opportunities in the electrical industry in Ireland. “We’re looking forward to meeting new faces at this year’s event, but also welcoming back return exhibitors and visitors,” said Janice. “Even if you have attended the show before, there will still be something new for you to look at. As always, this will include product launches, expert advice, business opportunities and seminars on the latest developments, plus a dedicated tool zone and lots of competitions and giveaways.”

TO BOOK YOUR STAND OR ATTEND, CONTACT JANICE UPRICHARD

TRADE EVENT DUBLIN 2016

L L A C T S A L FOR STANDS 28 6x3

18 8x3

29 3x3

1 4x2

19 3x3

27 4x3

8 3x3 2 3x2

9 3x2

20 5x3

30 4x2

32 4x2

31 4x2

33 4x2

26 4x3

10 3x2

5 3x2

6 3x2

13 3x3

7 4x2

49 3x2

45 4x2

50 3x2

44 4x2

24 6x3

22 4x3

12 3x2

34 9x6

25 3x3

21 5x3

11 3x2

46 4x2

48 3x2

3 3x2

4 3x2

47 4x2

23 6x3

35 4x2

37 4x2

36 4x2

38 4x2

43 4x2

42 4x2

14 4x2

15 3x2

16 3x2

17 4x2

MAIN ENTRANCE

39 4x2

40 4x2

41 4x2

T: (RoI) 01 696 8319 or (NI) 028 9261 2990 E: Janice@kmpltd.co.uk W: www.elecmagazine.com

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TRADE EVENT DUBLIN 2016

IRELA ND’S N ATIONA TRAD L E EVEN T I S BAC K

Wed 5 October , 4 -9 Thurs 6 pm October, 9:30am Citywe - 4pm st Hote l, Sagg a rt, Dub lin

HURRY! A FEW REMAINING STANDS STILL AVAILABLE

contact Janice on

01 696 8319

E: janice@kmpltd.co.uk

NEWS

ETT WILL CONTINUE TO OFFER ALL OTHER SERVICES TO THE INDUSTRY, INCLUDING AM2, CSR, MATURE CANDIDATE ASSESSMENT AND POST APPRENTICESHIP TRAINING...

ETT’s employer-led apprenticeship training comes to an end

he Electrical Training Trust (ETT) has said it will work to ensure that no employer or apprentice will be disadvantaged following its decision to withdraw from apprenticeship training. Since it was established in 1997 as a charitable trust, ETT has delivered apprenticeship training to over 4,500 school leavers throughout Northern Ireland. Derek Thompson, ETT Chief Executive, explained, “The main reason for withdrawing from the present contract arrangement is the continued absence of a final strategy and policy announcements by the Department for Employment & Learning (DEL). Our ability to plan, market, recruit and manage our supply chain has simply been undone by overwhelming uncertainties.” Lewis Darragh, ETT Chairman also commented by saying, “The 2010 open tendering policy of DEL has led to the

20 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

demise of the industry’s control at a regional level over the affairs of its own apprenticeship. The Board of ETT is extremely disappointed with the multiplication of providers and the progressive loss of employer influence and control during this period.” The decision by ETT suggests a growing lack of confidence in the employer-led approach, towards apprenticeship training in the sector. On a positive note, ETT will continue to offer all other services to the industry, including the provision of AM2 skills testing, CSR courses, mature candidate assessment

and post apprenticeship training. The Board of ETT also wish to confirm that the organisation remains well placed to promote, develop and support the management of the industry’s electrical Licence to Practice system.

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SURGE PROTECTION DEVICES

OVERVOLTAGE CAUSED BY SWITCHING EVENTS OR FROM AN ATMOSPHERIC ORIGIN CAN RESULT IN COSTLY DAMAGE TO ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT, SAYS JASON HALLAM, OF CUDIS…

Overvoltage overlooked

witching events, such as starting up equipment from plant machinery or electrical network switching, generate overvoltage’s from within the building or externally. This could be from a neighbouring building using, for example, arc welders, lift motors, refrigeration equipment and air conditioning systems. Even certain types of lighting systems can generate potentially damaging overvoltage conditions. In the UK, we have an average of 300,000 lightning ground strikes a year, the majority of them hitting open areas not affecting us. However, in some cases they hit buildings and overhead power lines. These potential harmful voltages can be inducted into the building from a direct strike or from the secondary effects of lightning, which can reach up to 6,000 volts. An effective surge protection device (SPD) should have a low voltage letthrough voltage, as this is the amount of the voltage that the equipment being protected will be subjected to. The greater the overvoltage the greater the risk of disruption, degradation and damage to the equipment connected to the electrical system. As technology moves on, components within electronic equipment continue to become smaller and, therefore, more sensitive to these types of influences.

TYPES OF TECHNOLOGY USED IN SPDs • Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV) – An MOV is a bipolar, non-linear resistor with a symmetrical voltage/current characteristic

curve and a resistance value which decreases as the voltage increases. This is the most popular type of device, mainly due to its fast reaction times and relatively low cost of production in comparison to other technologies. • Gas Discharge Tube (GDT) - A sealed gas-filled spark gap consisting of two metal electrodes, which are normally spaced by a ceramic or glass insulator. Not as popular as MOV technology as they can be slightly slower in reaction time. • Silicone Avalanche Diode (SAD) - A semiconductor diode, which avalanches like a thyristor and folds back to give less dissipation. Fast in reaction times, but expensive to produce and use.

FITTING SPDs Fitting surge protection devices is very simple, providing that they are designed into the installation. This is normally achieved by allowing for a spare way in the distribution board this may be a threephase or single-phase installation - and fitting it at the origin. The supply feeding the SPD is normally done via an overcurrent protection device, for example a circuit breaker. The circuit breaker is predominantly there for means of isolation purposes, to allow for commissioning, testing. It should also be noted that the SPD should be mounted as close as possible to the incoming terminals of the circuits being protected, with cables between protective devices feeding the SPDs is kept as short as possible in order for the SPD to operate at its best performing clamping voltage.

COMMON TYPES / CLASS OF SPDS Type 1 Class 1 are fitted at the origin of a supply where the building has an LPS (lightning protection system) fitted, or has

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The benefits of fitting SPDs far outweigh the initial cost, so why not offer to fit SPDs on all installations? an overhead supply. This SPD will protect against damage caused by a direct lightning strike. Type 2 Class 2 are fitted at the origin, if no LPS system or overhead supply is present, co-ordinated downstream from a Type 1 Class 1 in sub distribution boards if required. Type 3 Class 3 are fitted next to sensitive equipment eg fire alarm panels, CCTV, server rooms and PC work stations or coordinated downstream from a Type 2 Class 2 if required. The benefits of fitting SPDs far outweigh the initial cost, so why not offer to fit SPDs on all installations?

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PROJECT PROFILE

M&E Installation THE NATIONAL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

Match winning performance at the new National Stadium

WILLIAM COATES LTD SCORES WITH A WORLD-CLASS M&E INSTALLATION AT THE REDEVELOPED WINDSOR PARK IN BELFAST…

illiam Coates Ltd put in a matchwinning performance as the M&E contractor for the redevelopment of the National Stadium at Windsor Park, Belfast. A prestigious project that has had more than its fair share of media scrutiny, the stunning new National Stadium has become a beacon for local football and a fitting venue to host Northern Ireland internationals, local showpiece finals and Irish League games. For William Coates Ltd, the sheer scale of the project coupled with a phased handover and the fact that European Qualifiers were still taking place at the project all combined to give the team some difficult hurdles to clear throughout the two years on site. “We are really proud to have been involved in this project, particularly at a time when there is so much focus on the success of Northern Ireland,” said Gary Coleman,

Senior Electrical Contracts Manager at William Coates Ltd. “The project is so much in the public eye, so we had a lot of added pressure on us. But I think the results speak for themselves.” Ryan Scott, HSQE/Compliance Manager, added, “We have extensive experience of working on large scale projects, but the National Stadium redevelopment was very different and offered a lot of unique challenges. “We take a very proactive approach to our work and we pride ourselves on building strong relationships. Without the partnerships we built up with the main contractor, O’Hare & McGovern, the D&B Architect, Holmes Miller, Client Architect, Hamilton Architects, and the client IFA, we wouldn’t have been able to achieve such a high standard of finish.” While each stand offered a slightly

“The electrical installation was delivered to the highest standards in line with the client and UEFA requirements.” 24 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

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PROJECT PROFILE

different challenge, one of the unique aspects of the project was that the new stadium had to meet UEFA Stadium Category 4 standards. The East Stand contained 1,000m² of office space for use by the IFA and Linfield FC and office space for commercial letting, along with shop outlets and a ticket kiosk for IFA and Linfield. A heritage centre is also currently under construction. The South Stand ground floor has both domestic and international changing rooms including ice baths, indoor training/warm up areas. Referee and delegate rooms, dedicated manager and coach areas, medical rooms, and players’/family room as well as extensive media facilitates. The upper levels contain corporate boxes and function suites, TV studios and a state-ofthe-art control room as well as plant areas. The North Stand was refurbished with a covered concourse being added along with new quadrants to fully enclose the stadium. Finally, the West Stand is also currently under redevelopment. “In addition to all this, we also carried

out additional works around the ground, including in public areas and the carpark,” added Gary. “The electrical installation was delivered to the highest standards in line with the client and UEFA requirements,” explained Gary. “Match days were also stressful as we had to bring in a temporary floodlighting system that had to meet very specific LUX levels to meet the requirements of the TV companies while we were also operating from a temporary power supply through generators. “Phasing the work around the needs of the Northern Ireland team and also Linfield was a project in itself, but it is all down to effective communication.” Ryan added, “Our experience in largescale projects really made a difference in this regard and helped us deliver a world-class stadium. It not only takes the experience of players and supporters to a new level but we also have delivered state-of-the-art corporate and media facilities that will enhance Northern Ireland’s place in world football.” g

Complete solutions... The electrical services delivered by William Coates Ltd included: • High voltage systems – 1HV switchboard, 1-1500kVA & 1-800kVA transformer • 6 low voltage switchboards • Floodlighting to 1400 LUX vertical illuminance • General and emergency lighting – self test system and invertor fittings • General power • External lighting • Fire alarm systems • Intruder alarm systems • CCTV systems • Door access systems • Communication systems • Control systems • Building management systems • Inspection and testing • Event intercom system • Ref call system • Disabled refuge system

William Coates Ltd, 37 Mallusk Road, Newtownabbey T: (NI) Tel: 028 9034 2560 or (RoI) 048 9034 2560 - E: info@williamcoates.com www.williamcoates.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

THE INCLUSION OF AWARD-WINNING APPRENTICES AND HELP FOR THE LONG-TERM UNEMPLOYED AND STUDENTS BOOSTS AN ALREADY IMPRESSIVE PROJECT… g

William Coates Ltd goes the extra mile

“We feel that developing the next generation of skilled electricians is vital to the future of our company.” 26 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

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PROJECT PROFILE

illiam Coates Ltd has a proud history of excellence and much of that is down to the company’s constant ability to develop the next generation. Established in 1961, the company has focused on developing and nurturing talent via its apprenticeship programmes which has been running for a number of years. At the National Stadium at Windsor Park, William Coates Ltd exceeded the company’s socio-economic requirements for the project by employing two long-term unemployed people In total, eight electrical apprentices were employed on this project, one of whom – David Spiers - was named as the ECA Apprentice of the Year for Northern Ireland. William Coates Ltd also employed an Energy & Building Services student from the University of Ulster on a year’s placement, who integrated well into the William Coates site management team and gained valuable experience of working on such a prestigious construction project. Gary Coleman, Senior Electrical Contracts Manager, started his career as an apprentice at William Coates Ltd, so he can see the inherent value in this process. He said, “We feel that developing the next generation of skilled electricians is vital to the future of our company and of our industry. We regularly take on new apprentices and we delighted to be able to add to this process at the National Stadium. “Due to the nature of the program, we exceed our socio-economic cluases and we’re delighted that we had the opportunity to offer employment to two long-term unemployed people who impressed us enough to earn themselves a full

time job with us.” David’s success at in winning the Northern Ireland ECA Edmundson Electrical Apprentice of the Year Award marked a hat-trick for William Coates Ltd. On winning the award, David commented, “It’s an honour to receive this prestigious award and recognition. This would not have been possible without the support, encouragement and belief from all of the team at William Coates. The training the company has provided has been first class and it is a privilege that I am now employed as a full time member of this brilliant team.” The success of the National Stadium project was down to the entire team. The proof of the high standards they delivered is there for all to see but an added aspect of the success was the impressive health and safety statistics on the project. Ryan Scott, HSQE/Compliance Manager, explained, “Safety first, always and without exception, is a core value of the business and we ensured that all of our supply chain partners adopted this ethos on the National Stadium. “At the height of the project, we had over 150 operatives working on site with no reportable accidents or incidents recorded throughout the duration of the project. On such a complex project, this was achieved by excellent planning and ensuring a proactive approach to health and safety was adopted by all our employees and our supply chain partners.” Keep up to date with current and future projects by following W_Coates_LTD on Twitter and William Coates Ltd on LinkedIn.

David Spiers, Northern Ireland ECA Edmundson Electrical Apprentice of the Year, celebrates winning the award with colleagues at the National Stadium at Windsor Park.

William Coates Ltd, 37 Mallusk Road, Newtownabbey T: (NI) Tel: 028 9034 2560 or (RoI) 048 9034 2560 - E: info@williamcoates.com www.williamcoates.com

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ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 27

PROJECT PROFILE

LV/HV Solutions THE NATIONAL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

HANOVER SYSTEMS SUPPLIES HIGH SPEC ENERGY EFFICIENT SOLUTIONS IN A TIGHT TIME FRAME AT THE RECENTLY DEVELOPED NATIONAL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK…

Hanover Systems scores with winning solutions at Windsor Park

orking closely with M&E contractor, William Coates Ltd, Hanover Systems provided a high quality, energy-efficient engineered solution to the low and high voltage system requirements for the National Stadium at Windsor Park. The company manufactured and supplied a top quality range of systems, including a high voltage switchboard, 1500kVA and 800kVA transformers housed within GRP package substations, main low voltage switchgear, complete with mains generator backup and G59 synchronising equipment. As an authorised IEC 61439 compliant manufacturer, Hanover also supplied six

LV main switchboards at all of the stands, as well as all the sub switchboards, Hager Invicta 3 panel boards and FDP distribution boards, lift auto transfer panels and power factor correction equipment, plus all the energy metering infrastructure. “It was a considerable size of a job for us, and one which took 18 months to complete,” said Managing Director, Alastair Hair. “We haven’t had an opportunity to work on a big national stadium like this before and, while the Windsor Park project was not without its challenges, it was an extremely successful contract which we are proud to add to our portfolio. “The project had a very tight timescale and we had to get the high voltage systems

in early on in the programme,” explained Alastair. “Match days also proved to be a challenge. We had to have engineers on site during the Northern Ireland international matches, because when these games were being played, we had to activate the systems and then deactivate them again each time the games were finished. It was tricky enough to do and we had to repeat that a total of four times throughout the programme. “When issues arose with the West stand it also created more work for us as our programme had already been put in place. We had to prioritise changes to that very quickly, but it all worked out in the end and we learned a lot dealing with all the unforeseen aspects of this project.

“We are able to offer a one-stop package solution.” 28 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

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PROJECT PROFILE

Market-leading manufacturer

“As a manufacturer and supplier working closely with our partners Cubic, Hager and Schneider Electric we were able to package everything together, to provide the best solution both technically and commercially. The team from William Coates Ltd did a great job of installing the systems and it was a pleasure to work with them on this important project. “All the systems were of a very high specification,” continued Alastair. “The HV switchgear, for instance, was vacuum type which is the latest technology and is more environmentally friendly – something that is becoming more and more important these days. It comes under the guise of energy efficiency and is in keeping with our company ethos of keeping pace with industry changes. Hanover Systems is fully certified to build electrical assemblies which comply with the latest IEC 61439 standards.”

RANGE From 100A Form 2 switchboards to 6300A Form 4 type 7 switchboards, Hanover Systems designs and manufactures a varied range of switchgear to accommodate clients’ requirements. Whether you require one or all of the company’s

products, the Hanover Systems team will design and engineer a solution which ensures that all your on-site, technical, quality and commercial requirements are met, from LV switchboards and automatic changeover units to feeder pillars and final distribution products. When it comes to HV solutions, products from Hanover Systems include ring main units, vacuum switchgear, liquid filled transformers, cast resin transformers, package sub-stations and grade studies. The company has a broad range of experience in high profile projects in Northern Ireland and as far away as Sri Lanka. In recent times these have ranged from Sainsbury’s to Southern Health and Social Care Trust, International Press & Media, and Belfast Metropolitan College. The company regularly works with specifiers and end users, getting involved with projects at an early design stage in order to assist with any bespoke requirements. As Northern Ireland’s sole appointed Authorised System Assembler for Schneider Electric, Hanover Systems is able to provide certified Fully Type Tested Solutions, ensuring that quality is an integral part of all its products.

Based in Belfast, Hanover Systems is an innovative company specialising in HV and LV power distribution, total building control, automatic meter reading and energy efficiency solutions. Staff have over 130 years combined experience across a range of services, and high standards are maintained by consistently adhering to Hanover’s company values. “Our aim is to consistently meet the needs and expectations of our clients and colleagues, working together through relationships built on trust, respect and effective communication, and ensuring that our service and products provide the quality expected as a marketleading manufacturer,” said Managing Director, Alastair Hair. “We also pride ourselves in being known as a progressive, forwardthinking business, integrating the latest products and technology.” “Hanover Systems offers a personal touch and tailors solutions that meet our clients’ needs, from design through to project delivery,” said Alastair.

PRODUCTS INCLUDE... • HV switchgear • HV transformers • LV switchboards • FDP distribution products • Lift ATS panels • PFC equipment • Energy metering solutions • Floodlighting distribution/control panels.

Hanover Systems Ltd, 32c Montgomery Road, Belfast, BT6 9HL T: (NI) 028 9070 9130 or (RoI) 048 9070 9130 – E: info@hanoversystems.com www.hanoversystems.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

Lighting THE NATIONAL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

THE EXPERTISE FROM THE WORLD LEADER IN DIVERSIFIED POWER MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS MEETS THE SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS OF THIS REDEVELOPED STADIUM…

Eaton completes largest-ever project in Northern Ireland

aton has quite literally lit up the National Stadium at Windsor Park by designing and supplying the lighting system for the new project. Aside from the floodlighting at the redeveloped home of football in Northern Ireland, Eaton provided a complete lighting solution for every section of the stadium, including within the new stands, concourse areas, changing rooms, offices, shops and all the external lighting. This package also included a central test system for all the emergency lighting which incorporated a central battery static inverter system. As a result, the National Stadium at Windsor Park is one of the largest projects that Eaton has ever completed in Northern Ireland. It not only demonstrated the depth of Eaton’s commercial and industrial lighting solutions but also the company’s design expertise. Chris Orr, Eaton’s Northern Ireland Business Development Manager, explained, “On top of the usual standards and regulations for projects such as this, the stadium had to meet UEFA Stadium Category 4 standards,

which were very stringent. “As a design and build project, we had to demonstrate how we would be able to meet very detailed specifications on LUX levels and on the overall performance of the emergency lighting system. Being able to offer design expertise from our own in-house team really sets us apart from competitors and gave us the edge on this job. “As a result we were able to provide a bespoke solution that met the stringent requirements of the project.” The inclusion of the self-test capabilities of the emergency lighting alongside the central battery system was an integral part of the overall package that Eaton was able to deliver for the National Stadium. David Moore, Northern Ireland Account Manager at Eaton, said, “This is such a prestigious project and we are proud to have been part of this. From the design stage through to the supply and site visits, we had to utilise our extensive expertise to meet the unique demands of the National Stadium.” The combination of Eaton’s local service

“Eaton has experience of working on major stadiums in the UK and across the world.” 30 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

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PROJECT PROFILE

Windsor wonders Some products of the Eaton range that have been installed at the National Stadium at Windsor Park include:

“The stadium had to meet UEFA Stadium Category 4 standards, which were very stringent.”

combined with worldwide technical expertise was also demonstrated. David and Chris both worked in close conjunction with M&E contractor, William Coates Ltd, and the Irish Football Association, with all the products supplied via Dunlop & Hamilton’s Belfast branch. All the products were manufactured in the UK with the technical design supplied via the team at Eaton’s UK headquarters. Chris added, “While this was the first time we had worked on a stadium of this size in Northern Ireland, as a company Eaton has experience of working on major stadiums in the UK and across the world. That made a significant difference to how we were able to approach the project and also provided peace-of-mind to the client.” This combination of a local service with a global approach is part of the ‘One Eaton’ approach developed by the company. As a world leader in diversified power management solutions, Eaton is able to provide a complete portfolio of electrical power protection, distribution and monitoring technologies that includes UPS; in-rack power distribution; medium voltage and low voltage power distribution; lighting and control systems;

and fire and security detection and alerting systems. The One Eaton approach provides this range of products from one recognised brand that is backed by an expert service. This was demonstrated recently at the new Waterfront Conference and Business Centre in Belfast and, alongside the opening of the National Stadium at Windsor Park, Eaton has now been involved in two of the city’s most prestigious projects this year. David concluded, “Whether it is large scale projects like the National Stadium or the Waterfront or smaller commercial and industrial projects, we have the product range and service to proactively work with customers to meet their requirements.”

Tufflite Plus LED - This range brings an added performance and energy efficiency to the versatile range of IP66 rated weatherproof luminaires available from Eaton. It delivers a combined construction of a polycarbonate diffuser and polyester GRP body to give a high degree of impact resistance to IK08. LED linear light engines provide a classleading and fully flexible range of options for the designer in applications such as warehouses, plant rooms, covered car parks and general lighting where ingress protection and a robust luminaire are a necessity. RXS2 LED downlights - Following on from the well-established pedigree of the RXS family comes RXS2, an evolution of the proven technology and innovation of RXS. A class-leading efficacy enhancement now makes RXS2 the intelligent choice where performance and value are key. RXS2 provides design choices from 1,000 lumens to above 4,000 lumens, all in complimentary and matched forms. An upgraded reflector design utilises more of the available light whilst providing a more attractive transition of building surfaces. EasiCheck 2 - This is a purpose-designed emergency lighting testing system, providing a simple to operate, laboursaving alternative to manual testing. Avoiding the need for separate secure manual test keys and the need to manually inspect fittings during and after tests, EasiCheck 2 automatically tests the emergency lighting at a user controlled, convenient, non-disruptive time, then gathers the test results and displays them in a simple to understand manner at a central control panel. EasiCheck 2 has been designed to ensure quick and simple installation, operation and system re-configuration throughout the life of the building. System extensions and changes can easily be incorporated without expensive re-programming charges.

Eaton Electric Ltd T: David Moore on 07712 488 310 or Chris Orr on 07772 605 463 www.uk.eaton.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

IP Infrastructure Services THE NATIONAL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

The new media room.

CROWN INDUSTRIES AND CARA NETWORK SOLUTIONS DEVELOP A COMPREHENSIVE SYSTEM TO KEEP FANS, PLAYERS AND THE MEDIA CONNECTED…

IP infrastructure is stadium’s crowning glory

ans, players, staff and the media are now better connected at Northern Ireland’s redeveloped National Stadium at Windsor Park thanks to the expertise of Crown Industries. With connectivity playing such a crucial part of the modern game, the Irish Football Association wanted a system that would meet the demands of the media – not just in terms of a growing TV audience but also the live feeds across websites and social media of games. Finally, the stadium now also includes offices for both the IFA and

Linfield, which offered further specific demands on the IP infrastructure. William Coates Ltd – the M&E contractor on this project - commissioned the team at Crown Industries to provide converged IP infrastructure services for the redeveloped stadium, including: • Commscope CAT6 structured cabling architecture • Fully resilient blown fibre backbone infrastructure • DELL Active Hardware platform supporting the latest POE enabled technology

“This project was about so much more than a basic infrastructure install.” 32 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

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PROJECT PROFILE

The wireless system installed by Crown Industries.

• Meru WI-FI architecture for staff and press areas of the stadium After a thorough analysis of the company’s design, in line with the client’s technical brief, Crown Industries was selected as the partner of choice by William Coates Ltd, offering a comprehensive, competent offering in line with the specialist services available within the Crown Industries business. Commenting on the project, Simon Murray, Strategic Development Director at Crown Industries identified crossfunctional competence as a key driver on the project. “This project was about so much more than a basic infrastructure install,” he said. “It was critical that both William Coates Ltd and the IFA could rely on the specific technical skill sets from within the Crown fold, including the design and support side offered by CARA Network Solutionswhich is part of Crown Industries - to deliver the project. “Installing the passive architecture was

only one piece of the jigsaw. The added value we brought to the table included having the specific qualifications, training and industry recognised qualifications from within the business meant that there was no ‘break in the chain’. This was because we provided a joined up approach between William Coates Ltd and the IFA which now acts as testimony to what is a fantastic project and one that the industry should be duly proud off.” Crown’s involvement with the stadium won’t end with the completion of the contract, as the IFA seeks to use the company’s extensive post installation support to ensure the stadium goes live and continues to provide an enjoyable fan based experience. Crown Industries is also set to support the Northern Ireland team at home and abroad, including at Euro 2016 in France this summer. The fact that Crown Industries will continue to work with the IFA is testament to the company’s commitment to building strong partnerships. Crown Industries Ltd comprises four

distinctive companies, each with a competent, reliable and industry leading focus in respective areas of building engineering services. One of these four companies is Cara Network Solutions, which played an integral role in the National Stadium at Windsor Park project. Cara Network Solutions is a network solutions integrator with specialisms in design consultancy, edge switching, Fibre To The Office (FTTO) and wireless solutions. By offering unique fibre optic-based solutions – which leverage new technology such as fibre to the desk and passive optical LAN – the company has set itself apart from its competitors. Cara’s in-house skills base extends from fundamental network engineering through to CCIE certified consultant engineers. What this means is that Cara Network Solutions can provide all aspects of network provision, from advice and design through to implementation and ongoing support, ensuring cost-effective, future-proofed solutions.

Crown Industries, West Bank Drive, Belfast, BT3 9LA T: 0845 2772200

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PROJECT PROFILE

Sound Broadcast and Intercom Systems THE NATIONAL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

EXPERIENCE FROM THE REDEVELOPMENT OF KINGSPAN STADIUM HELPS THESE AUDIO-VISUAL EXPERTS TO TAILOR A SOLUTION FOR THE HOME OF LOCAL FOOTBALL…

MGA Communication adds to the famous atmosphere at Windsor Park

he new National Stadium at Windsor Park needed a sound broadcast system that could deal with the renowned atmosphere created by Northern Ireland fans during international games and so M&E contractor, William Coates Ltd, turned to the design team experts at MGA Communication Ltd. The company has already delivered on the sporting front with a similar project for Ulster Rugby at the Kingspan Stadium and MGA Communication utilised this experience to great effect during the redevelopment of the 20,000 capacity stadium. At the National Stadium, MGA Communication was responsible for the new integrated Public Address and Voice Alarm (PAVA) sound broadcast system, refuge alarms, disabled toilet alarms, induction loops as well as the emergency intercom system. A new aspect for the stadium was the deployment of an innovative RF-based radio commentary system which broadcasts audio broadcast feeds from the stadia’s main microphones and music feeds as well as from the PAVA system for the hearing impaired wearing head-worn receivers.

A further new aspect for the stadium was the Referee Call system which was deployed within the changing areas. All the systems had to meet stringent stadium standards set by UEFA as well as the health and safety regulations – all of which MGA Communication was able to adhere with. With music now part of the pre-match build up at football games, the PAVA system is now an important aspect of generating a superb atmosphere. However, the PAVA sound broadcast system must also be able to deliver intelligible sound broadcasts and associated announcements that can be heard by the capacity crowd. Aaron McKeown, Project Director at MGA Communication, explained, “Similar to our work at the Kingspan Stadium, the PAVA sound broadcast system was the most challenging aspect of the project. It required a high-end sound broadcast solution that was able to make clear announcements to fans, particularly in the event of an emergency. “We also had to ensure that the solution worked aesthetically and didn’t interfere with spectator viewing. While we are always confident of meeting the requirements of

any project, our experience at the Kingspan Stadium made this project a lot easier.” At the National Stadium, the PAVA sound broadcast system is distributed over four large equipment racks, which integrate over a fibre and copper network, allowing music and paging to be delivered to designated zones in and around the stadium. Each rack, allocated to each of the four stands, allows the PAVA sound broadcast system zone to have local volume control, with the overall volume of each speaker zone controllable via a digital paging console. In this way, the acoustics are customisable in accordance with match attendance. The sound broadcast system announcer has local control of the radio microphone and music via a front-end mixing desk while a CD/USB/Flash music source has been utilised to allow different music to be easily selected. Throughout the stands, the PAVA sound broadcast system has been interfaced with the Induction loop systems to assist those with hearing difficulties. Aaron concluded, “We pride ourselves on being able to deliver tailored solutions for each project, and working closely with William Coates Ltd and the Irish Football Association we were able to do just that for the National Stadium. “As a Northern Ireland company, we feel privileged to have played our part in bringing both the homes of rugby and football to world-class levels.”

MGA Communication Ltd, 55 Antrim Road, Ballynahinch, BT24 8AN T: (NI) 028 9756 5614 or (RoI) 048 9756 5614 - E: enquiries@mgacom.co.uk www.mgacom.co.uk

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PROJECT PROFILE

Fire and Security Systems THE NATIONAL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

G4S FIRE & SECURITY LIMITED (UK) CONTINUES TO SUPPORT WILLIAM COATES LTD IN ITS LATEST COLABORATION AT WINDSOR PARK…

‘Best-in-class’ systems from G4S

4S Fire & Security Systems (UK) was selected by William Coates Ltd to deliver ‘best-in-class’ fire and security systems at the recently redeveloped Windsor Park. Demonstrating, once again, the company’s ability to embrace new challenges, G4S used market-leading equipment and strong teamwork to provide a comprehensive range of protective systems to one of Northern Irelands’ elite sporting venues. These included fire detection and alarm, disabled refuge, referee call, event control, IP high definition CCTV, access control/ intercom, and intruder detection and alarm. The company’s installation team was proactively involved in the overall construction programme. One of the major challenges was that, in addition to international friendly matches, crucial European Qualifier matches were scheduled in between the various phases of construction. Demonstrating safe evacuation of thousands of supporters

was critical to ensuring that these matches went ahead. G4S worked closely with its customer to ensure that the tight, phased, deadlines were successfully met. G4S had engineers in attendance at every match following handover to ensure that the IFA experienced a smooth transition in operating and managing its new fire and security systems. Mark Hanna, Operations Director at G4S Fire & Security Systems (UK), said, “Windsor Park is another great example of how our various teams worked together to successfully deliver our broad suite of protection systems. We are very proud of our achievements and this project has allowed us to continue our strong working relationship with William Coates Ltd.” With a strong working partnership that has been built over 30 years, G4S Fire & Security Systems (UK) is an experienced expert in delivering Gent products. At Windsor Park, the company was able to provide Gent’s leading edge systems including its best-in-class fire detection and

alarm system, and the very latest in IP high definition CCTV technology from Avigilon. G4S Fire & Security Systems (UK) delivered best-in-class fire and security systems to include the leading-edge Gent fire detection and alarm system, and the very latest in IP high definition CCTV technology from Avigilon. Operations Manager, Denis Spurling, said, “We were able to successfully overcome the challenges we know to expect, when protecting large partially open public spaces, by meeting regularly with all stakeholders in the project team. Engagement at this level, combined with our specialist knowledge, ensured a smooth project delivery.” System Sales Consultant, Jonathan McDonald, added, “We are delighted that both the project and client teams really bought into the benefit of IP high definition CCTV. Windsor Park is equipped with CCTV equipment so powerful that persons can be identified at ranges of up to 100m via powerful fixed-lens high definition cameras.”

G4S Fire & Security Systems (UK), 12 Heron View, Airport Road West, Belfast, BT3 9LN T: (NI) 08448 110016 or (RoI) 01 426 1799 - E: firesecurityenquiries@uk.g4s.com www.g4sfireandsecurity.co.uk

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ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 35

PROJECT PROFILE

Access Equipment THE NATIONAL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

INSTANT SPANDECK WALKWAY SYSTEM PROVIDES THE PERFECT SOLUTION FOR THE M&E CONTRACTOR TO ACCESS NEW STANDS…

Ridgeway takes William Coates Ltd to new heights

idgeway helped William Coates Ltd overcome one of the most difficult challenges of the redevelopment of the National Stadium at Windsor Park – access to the roof of the stand. With no access allowed onto the playing surface, the M&E contractor contacted a wide range of companies asking them to offer a solution that would help them gain effective access to the highest levels of the stand to install vital aspects such as the new floodlights and sound broadcast system. According to William Coates Ltd, the only company able to meet this requirement was Ridgeway, with the company providing the Instant Spandeck walkways and access system. Gary Coleman, Senior Electrical Contracts Manager at William Coates Ltd, explained, “The Instant Spandeck system was perfect for our requirements. With the undersoil heating on the pitch, our options were limited, so we talked to various companies to look at their solutions. “Ridgeway were able to meet all our needs, not only in terms of giving us access to the roof of the stand but also doing so with a

system that provided simple and effective access for our team.” The optimum solution was the roof walkway system, Instant Spandeck - a lightweight aluminium walkway bridge, work platform and staging system, all in one versatile unit. Thanks to its unique reversible design and double side hooks, Instant Spandeck can be used individually as a walkway or side by side as staging. High strength aluminium alloy construction ensures that it is lightweight and remains maintenance free, whilst integral toeboards enable it to be used safely as a walkway. Guardrail posts and guardrails are fitted to provide a safe working environment. Ridgeway supplied and fitted both temporary and permanent Instant Spandeck Modular Walkway systems at the National Stadium to provide simple, costeffective and safe access requirements. Using just a small number of standard components, the system is easy to specify, yet is versatile enough for the most demanding of locations. Installation is quick and simple, and thanks

to the lightweight nature of the system, the need for expensive craneage is reduced. Due to the fact that Instant Spandeck Walkways are designed specifically for this application they not only deliver higher performance, but, in most cases, actually cost considerably less than traditional sitefabricated products. All this is complemented by full compliance, where applicable, with BS6399 (part 1) 1996 and BS5395 (part 3) 1995, and subject to detailed specification, Instant Spandeck Walkway systems are manufactured using procedures approved to ISO 9001. Stephen Kane, Managing Director of Ridgeway, concluded, “We are delighted to have been involved in this prestigious project and to again demonstrate our ability to find the perfect solution to access issues. “We have a strong relationship with Instant UpRight, the manufacturers of the Instant Spandeck system and a company that is one of the most respected manufacturers of access equipment in the world, so we were able to design a solution that met the specific needs of William Coates Ltd.”

Ridgeway, 103 Airport Road West, Belfast, BT3 9ED T: 028 9045 4599 - E: info@ridgeway-online.com W: www.ridgeway-online.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

Wiring Accessories THE NATIONAL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

CLICK® MINIGRID® AND METAL CLAD WIRING ACCESSORIES PROVIDE HIGH QUALITY AND SIMPLE INSTALLATION FOR CONTRACTORS…

Scolmore scores at National Stadium

he National Stadium at Windsor Park is switched on thanks to Scolmore, with the products from the company’s MetalClad and MiniGrid ranges installed at the redeveloped stadium. Scolmore’s strong relationship with main contractor, William Coates Ltd, continued on this project with the company also again linking up with leading electrical wholesalers, KEW Electrical, to ensure the products were delivered direct to site. David Rankin, Area Sales Manager at Scolmore, said, “We pride ourselves on developing partnerships and we are delighted to highlight this again on this prestigious project. The on-field success of the Northern Ireland team has now been matched by the development of a magnificent stadium that we are proud to be associated with.” The Scolmore products were used throughout the redeveloped stadium and

both met the specific requirements of this project. CLICK® MiniGrid® modules are fitted as standard into the company’s moulded CLICK®, PolarTM and Mode®, decorative DefinityTM, Define® & Deco® and Metal Clad wiring accessories – on this occasion they were added to the Metal Clad accessories. The MiniGrid® modules are all easily and quickly exchanged or mounted onto unfurnished plates by means of a simple, single screw fixing – which is a dream for contractors working on large projects such as this. This simple, single screw installation of the modules on the mounting plates has encouraged contractors to devise and install customised switching solutions onsite. The innovation of the CLICK® MiniGrid® range is matched by the durability of the

CLICK Metal Clad, which proved a perfect fit for the National Stadium. Electrophoretically-coated plates and back boxes provide a durable and long-lasting heavy duty finish to the Metal Clad range of products. All the switch products are of modular construction, allowing the installer total freedom in designing customised switching solutions according to on-site needs. These products are just two examples of the extensive range of CLICK electrical and lighting products, with the company renowned for its focus on developing new products and improving existing ones. “We have a comprehensive range, and our customers know that not only will they get reliability and high quality, but also competitively-priced products. With such a comprehensive range, we are confident that we can meet the requirements of your project.”

T: (NI) David Rankin on 07785 621 117 - E: david.rankin@scolmore.com or (RoI): Click Litehouse on 01 2811 122 - E: sales@clicklitehouse.ie www.scolmore.com, www.clicklitehouse.ie

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ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 37

PROJECT PROFILE

Electrical Suppliers THE NATIONAL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

ELECTRICAL WHOLESALER ONCE AGAIN PROVES IT IS A RELIABLE SUPPLY PARTNER BY DELIVERING HAGER AND UNTRUNK PRODUCTS TO THE NEW NATIONAL STADIUM…

Winning combination from Walter S. Mercer, Belfast

ootball is often the subject of conversation at the trade counter of Walter S. Mercer, Belfast, so it was appropriate that company became involved in the country’s redeveloped home of the football. As a reliable supply partner Mercer’s has long-standing experience in delivering market-leading products direct to site. At the National Stadium at Windsor Park the leading electrical wholesaler supplied the products from the Hager and Unitrunk ranges that had been specified on the project. John Auld, Profit Centre Manager at Walter S. Mercer, Belfast, said, “Football always creates its fair share of banter at the trade counter but with the Northern Ireland team doing so well it has been a real topic of conversation in the branch. “It is great to see the stadium redeveloped

to such world-class standards and we are proud to have played a role in that process. We worked closely with Hager, Unitrunk and William Coates Ltd, the M&E contractor on the project, to ensure that the products they required were delivered when and where they needed them. “We have excellent stock levels in the branch already but on projects of this size we co-ordinate closely with the manufacturer to make sure we can adequately meet the requirements of the job. It is all about good communication and thanks to the partnerships we have developed over the years, this project ran smoothly.” The relationships with Unitrunk and Hager are just an example of a plethora of worldclass manufacturers that Mercer’s stock. “That’s a major strength that we offer customers,” added John. “We only supply

innovative, high quality and cost effective, branded, products sourced from the world’s leading manufacturers. We’re always adapting our range to meet the changing needs of the market but whether it is through our trade counter staff or by hosting manufacturer events, we also provide the information on new products and trends that helps keep customers up-to-date.” Amongst the wide range of products stocked for the domestic, commercial, industrial sectors are lighting; lamps; cables; wiring accessories; switchgear and fusegear; control and automation; and cable management. Mercer’s also stock ventilation; space heating; water heating; cable components and accessories; emergency lighting and fire detection; security access control; site electrics and supplies; tools and fixings; instrumentation and electronic components.

Water S. Mercer, Units 11 and 12 Duncrue Industrial Estate, Belfast, BT3 9BW T: (NI) 028 9037 1888 or (RoI) 048 9037 1888, E: Belfast.386@eel.co.uk www.edmundson-electrical.co.uk

38 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

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PROJECT PROFILE

Electrical Control System THE NATIONAL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

EXPERIENCE GAINED AT THE KINGSPAN STADIUM AND STRONG RELATIONSHIPS MADE HAGER THE PERFECT PARTNER AT THE NEW HOME OF FOOTBALL…

Pitch perfect performance by Hager

fter impressing at the new Kingspan Stadium – the home of Ulster Rugby – Hager once again put in a matchwinning performance at the redevelopment of the National Stadium at Windsor Park. The company’s relationship in designing boards with panel builder partner, Hanover Systems, in addition to being the sole contact point for such a large contract, made Hager the favourable choice for such a prestigious project. Mervyn Knox, Area Sales Manager for Hager Northern Ireland, said the company’s experience of working on the redevelopment of Ravenhill (now known as the Kingspan Stadium) helped greatly on this similar project. “We have many years of experience working on large scale projects but stadiums offer their own set of unique challenges,” he said. “For example, at Ravenhill, this project was carried out mid-season while games were still being played so that in itself, put additional pressure on everyone involved to deliver on time. “In the past, we have worked with both William Coates Ltd and Hanover Systems and, as a result, have strong working relationships

with them. These relationships helped get everybody on board when faced with strict deadlines and schedules for this project. We worked closely and in partnership at both the design stage and on-site with our focus at all times to make the installation process as quick as possible.” Hager products and solutions used at the National Stadium at Windsor Park include Invicta 3 panel boards; JK Invicta 3 MCB boards, contactors, RCBOs and MCBs; and main switchboards, MCCB devices. Mervyn added, “Today the pressure on all areas of construction is to reduce costs and improve efficiency during installation stage, our solutions are designed to help our customers meet these needs. As well as working closely with Hanover Systems on products installed in the panels, we also worked with Walter S. Mercer, one of our Belfast stockists, to ensure fast and efficient delivery of our standard off-the-shelf products.” Also supplied by Hager for the National Stadium project were Invicta 3 Type 3 distribution boards and h3 MCCB devices.

h3 is Hager’s new range of MCCBs that provide safe and easy solutions for low voltage electrical circuit protection. Thestate-of-the-art circuit breakers offer both designers and installers a wide range of features and benefits. Special attention has been given to ergonomics, especially with the integration of these devices into the TP&N and panel board range. “We are proud to have been involved in the National Stadium project” concluded Mervyn. “To be involved in projects for both the new home of rugby and football in Northern Ireland is a major achievement and one we were excited to be involved in. We can now bring the experience we gained on these projects to future projects of similar stature. “Hager is a global business with real, local expertise. Our products combine engineering, design and innovation to create a market-leading portfolio covering the full spectrum of electrical power distribution, and this enables us to match the right solution to the right requirement - all backed up by rapid delivery and expert technical support.

Hager Ireland, Unit M2, Furry Park Industrial Estate, Old Airport Road, Santry, Dublin 9 T: Mervyn Knox, Area Sales Manager on 07968 147444 - E: info@hager.ie www.hager.ie

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ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 39

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.

INSTALLED ON-SITE AT THE NATIONAL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK, BELFAST.

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.

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 www.hager.ie

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.

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.

TRAINING

PROVIDING A REVIEW OF THE IRISH CONSTRUCTION MARKET AND AN OUTLOOK FOR 2016, THIS YEAR’S ANNUAL BRUCE SHAW HANDBOOK HIGHLIGHTS THE SKILLS SHORTAGE IN SEVERAL SECTORS, INCLUDING ELECTRICAL, AND THE THREAT IT POSES TO A REVIVAL IN THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR…

A Derry Scully, Chairman, Bruce Shaw Dublin.

Skills shortage = recovery slowdown

ccording to the 2016 Bruce Shaw Handbook, output of the Irish construction industry in 2015 was approximately €12.5billion which represented an increase of 14% over the previous year. The firm expects recovery in the industry to accelerate this year and is predicting an output level of just over €15billion, representing an annual increase of 21%. While such a recovery is to be welcomed, says the consultancy firm, it’s worth remembering that at €15billion the industry output will still only be at approximately 40% of the 2007 peak output of over €38billion. This level of output was unsustainably high but our current level - which represents 7.6% of GNP - is still well below the recognised European sustainable level of 10% to 12%. Using this metric the output of the Irish construction industry should be between €20BIillion and €24billion. The firm has also commented on the numerous challenges and risks that pose a threat to the industry’s fragile recovery, one of which relates to resource levels in the sector. A skills shortage in key building trades from electrical and glazing to plastering is threatening to put the brakes on the industry’s revival. “During the recession, construction suffered the highest number of company failures of

These skills shortages are now manifesting themselves and will take time to correct. It takes four to five years to train construction professionals and a similar timescale to train skilled craftsmen.” 42 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

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TRAINING

any industry. Employment in construction also fell to a quarter of its peak level. These skills shortages are now manifesting themselves and will take time to correct. It takes four to five years to train construction professionals and a similar timescale to train skilled craftsmen.” Experts at the firm warn that the industry is currently experiencing shortages in specialist trades, such as mechanical and electrical services, and increasingly also in traditional trades such as steel fixing and plastering. “These shortages are impacting on tender levels and construction inflation levels are running well ahead of general inflation.” As activity in the construction industry picks up, tender prices are continuing to rise and the gap between these and the input costs of labour and materials is steadily closing, according to the Handbook. The firm’s research shows that, on average, tender prices rose by 6% during 2015 while construction input costs rose on average by just 1%. During 2016 the firm says it expects to see input costs increase by approximately 2%, reflecting pressure to increase wage rates and also increased costs of imported materials. “We predict that tender prices will increase at a faster pace of 7% on average, due to the reduced number of main contractors and sub-contractors and the skills shortage in specialist trades especially glazing/curtain walling, mechanical and electrical services as well as more traditional trades such as steel fixing and plastering. Increases in tenders will be greater in the Dublin area than in provincial locations.” Bruce Shaw says this increase in tender prices emphasises the importance of providing for future construction inflation in feasibility studies. It is also becoming more important to conduct detailed pre-qualification/due diligence when preparing tender lists for new projects. T: (RoI) T 01 661 4711 or (NI) 028 9032 1056 E: (RoI) dublin@bruceshaw.com or (NI) belfast@bruceshaw.com W: www.bruceshaw.com

AVERAGE IRISH CONSTRUCTION COSTS 2016 The average construction costs table is generated using Bruce Shaw’s Cost Database and sets out typical building construction costs. Our database is the largest construction cost database in Ireland. Average Costs

Cost Range

COMMERCIAL OFFICES Suburban Naturallt Ventilated Shell & Core €1,300 Developer Standard €1,400 Extra for Air Conditioning €185 CITY CENTRE AIR CONDITIONED Shell & Core €1,750 Developer Standard €1,900 OFFICE FIT OUT 95% Open Plan, No Catering €490 75% Open Plan, Limited Catering €670 60% Open Plan, Full Catering €920 Corporate HQ €1,470 Open Plan Work Station €1,100 HIGH TECH INDUSTRIAL Shell & Core €920 Developer Standard €800 RESIDENTIAL Estate House (Approx. 100 sq.m €1,100 Developer Standard Apartments €1,600 Individual House Rebuilding Costs SHOPPING CENTRES Anchor Unit €750 Unit Shops €920 Mall €1,650 Retail Fit Out €1,300 SITE DEVELOPMENT BUSINESS PARKS Roads and Primary Services €170,500 WAREHOUSES Without offices €610 With10% offices €750 HEALTHCARE Acute Hospitals, Average Costs €2,650 Ward Blocks €2,200 General Operating Theatres €3,900 Nursing Homes €1,900 Accident & Emergency €2,750 CAR PARK Surface €1,160 Multi-Storey €9,750 Single Level Basement ** €14,000 Double Level Basement ** €18,250 EDUCATION Primary Level (DOE) - Second Level (DOE) - Third Level €1520 LEISURE Hotel Building €1,650 FF&E €310 Restaurant €1,770 Cinema €1,400 Sports Hall €1,000 Swimming Pool €2,250 MUNICIPAL Fire Station €2,080 Prison €1,900 Courthouse €2,800

Including M&E range

€1,750 €1,850 €365

per sq.m. per sq.m. per sq.m.

10-15% 15-20% -

€2,450 €2,700

per sq.m. per sq.m.

15-20% 20-25%

€730 per sq.m. 20-30% €920 per sq.m. 20-30% €1,400 per sq.m. 25-35% €1,850 per sq.m. 25-35% €3,100 each €1,460 €1,460

per sq.m. per sq.m.

20-25% 25-45%

€1,400 per sq.m. 10-20% €2,100 per sq.m. 10-20% (see chart – House Rebuilding costs per sq.m) €920 €1,400 €2,950 €1,850

per sq.m. per sq.m. per sq.m. per sq.m.

10-15% 10-15% 20-25% 25-30%

€1,850

per hectare

€790 €1,160

per sq.m. per sq.m.

8-12% 10-15%

€3,050 €2,650 €7,400 €2,800 €3,900

per sq.m. per sq.m. per sq.m. per sq.m. per sq.m.

20-30% 20-25% 45-60% 20-25% 25-30%

€1,460 €19,500 €31,000 €40,500

per space per space per space per space

€1,210 €1,210 €2,470

per sq.m. per sq.m. per sq.m.

10-15% 15-20% 20-25%

€2,800 €730 €2,680 €2,680 €1,550 €3,100

per sq.m. per sq.m. per sq.m. per sq.m. per sq.m. per sq.m.

25-35% 25-35% 20-30% 10-15% 20-35%

€2,500 €2,750 €3,3600

per sq.m. per sq.m. per sq.m.

15-25% 20-30% 20-30*

Notes • Costs are ased on January 2016 prices. • Average costs as indicated should not be used for insurance valuation purposes. The costs are representative of typical specifications for each type of project. Unique designs or challenging sites may not be within the cost range show. The rates shown are average construction build-only costs and do not include VAT, professional fees or allow for future inflation. • *Basic building cost only (inc VAT). External allowances of 12.5% and abnormal costs should be added. • ** Costs are based on a grossing factor not exceeding 28sqm per space.

www.bruceshaw.com/knowledgecentre

BASIC HOURLY WAGE RATES - MECHANICAL

@16.85

@17.36

@17.71

@18.15

@18.60

@19.25

@19.73

1 OCT 2005

1 APR 2006 3%

1 OCT 2006 2%

1 JUL 2007 2.5%

1 JAN 2008 2.5%

I OCT 2008 3.5%

1 APR 2009 2.5%

NEGOTIATIONS ONGIONG

BASIC HOURLY WAGE RATES - ELECTRICAL

@18.98

@19.72

@20.39

@21.49

@22.03

@22.56

@23.10

@23.68

1 APR 2004

1 APR 2005

1 APR 2006

1 APR 2007

1 SEPT 2009

1 JAN 2010

1 JUL 2016

1 JAN 2017

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ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 43

SPARKSAFE

In the previous 12 months, did your hourly rate of pay ...

The State of Pay

THE SAME

26%

RISE

72%

DECLINE

ELECTRICAL WORKERS REVEAL THEIR VIEWS ON WORKING IN THE INDUSTRY BY RESPONDING TO SPARKSAFE LTP SURVEY…

In the next 12 months, do you expect your hourly rate of pay to….

THE SAME

37%

RISE

59%

parkSafe Licence to Practice (LtP) has revealed the findings from its 2015 Pay and Conditions Report and it has thrown up some interesting findings for the electrical industry in Northern Ireland. The survey asked workers for their views on a range of industryrelated matters, including pay and conditions, working practices, training requirements as well as job change and career plans. Everyone working in the electrical industry was invited to participate – whether working as an apprentice, electrical labourer, or contracts manager. The survey was entirely anonymous - but asked that respondents did at least provide their gender, age, and the region in which they worked, as well as their job/title and salary.

PAY AND WORKING HOURS

DECLINE

44%

33%

CONCERNS

JOBS

More than five out of ten workers reported that their hourly rate of pay had risen in the previous 12 months, with just under three quarters of those surveyed expecting their hourly rate to increase in the next 12 months. Just over 40% of workers reported that their company expected them to work overtime on a regular basis. Almost half of those who worked regular overtime were getting paid at a higher rate, with just over one third getting paid at their normal rate. Worryingly, one in ten workers did not get paid for the additional hours they worked.

CONFIDENCE LEVELS

28%

32%

Nonetheless, 84% of those surveyed reported that they were happy with their working hours, with almost 87% commenting that they would

recommend this as a career. Overall, confidence levels were high, with more than eight out of ten workers stating that they felt confident about their work situation in 2015. A total of 86% of workers felt enthusiastic about their job and believed that they had a rewarding career, with almost half of all workers reporting that they had no plans to leave the industry. Of those considering a job change, 45% stated that this would be linked to better pay. This was followed by the chance to work abroad (28%), closely followed by the opportunity for new challenges (26%) and increased job satisfaction (20%).

CONCERNS Those that completed the survey reported that increased fuel/ transport costs (44%), workload/ stress (33%), job security (32%), and cuts to income (28%) were the biggest concerns.

2016 Pay and Conditions... Have you got something to say about industry pay and working conditions? If so, visit www.sparksafeltp.co.uk and take part in the 2016 Pay and Conditions survey. The survey is completely anonymous and should take no longer than 15 minute to complete. Everyone working in the electrical industry is welcome to participate.

connecting competency with contracts 44 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

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SPARKSAFE

WORK LIFE BALANCE How many hours do you work in a typical week? less than 30 31-40 41-50 51-60 61-70 More than 70

2% 70% 19% 5% 2% 2%

Additional hours are normally Paid at a higher rate Paid at a normal rate Paid at a lower rate Time-off-in-lieu Not Paid other

1% 68% 1% 7% 20% 3%

How often do you work in excess of your normal hours? 24%

13%

34%

Several times per week

Once a week

Less than once per week

15% Everyday

14% Never

Confidence Levels Difference DEFINITELY NOT

NOT LIKELY

STRONGLY DISAGREE

11%

STRONGLY AGREE

18%

DEFINITELY

47%

45%

DISAGREE

52%

Plan to stay in industry for the next 5 years

AGREE

10%

16% AGREE

VERY LIKELY

STRONGLY AGREE

I feel I am under too much pressure at work

STRONGLY DISAGREE

36% DISAGREE

51%

I regret choosing this as a career

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

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ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 45

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

EWL Electric Ltd, Ireland’s premier electrical wholesale distributor, is constantly looking for people to take up management positions throughout Ireland and an exciting opportunitiy exists for a manager at our Irwin Electrical profit centre in Letterkenny, Co. Donegal.

MANAGER ELECTRICAL WHOLESALE DISTRIBUTOR Successful applicants should ideally have experience in the electrical industry but serious consideration will be given to individuals who have a proven management track record in a distribution environment and who can show the necessary drive, energy and enthusiasm needed to be successful. Our Managers have an unprecedented amount of freedom over the management of their profit centres through setting their own marketing, buying and sales strategy and, consequently, are able to directly influence their own income which comprises a competitive salary and a unique performance related bonus scheme. The better the performance of business the greater are the rewards for the whole team. Find out more about the Company by visiting our website at www.ewl.ie If you think you have what it takes to succeed in a demanding but highly rewarding environment please send a comprehensive CV to:

The Managing Director EWL Electric Ltd Unit 2, Crosslands Industrial Park Ballymount Cross Dublin 12 Email: careers@ewl.ie (Enter “PCM-Letterkenny” in subject line) Closing date for applications: Friday 10 June 2016

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PROJECTS

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE TEAMS UP WITH CONSTRUCTION INFORMATION SERVICES (CIS) TO GIVE YOU DETAILS OF THE LATEST PROJECTS ACROSS THE COUNTRY…

Schools Summer Works Scheme

IS is highlighting the opportunities available in Ireland through the Schools Summer Works Scheme, which allocates funding to chosen school authorities applicants to undertake smallscale building works which can be carried out during the summer months or at other times that avoid disrupting the operation of the school. The first round list of 197 approved schools was announced in April and includes electrical jobs. The scheme will apply to both 2016 and 2017, and CIS will be reporting on these tenders as they enter its system via social media channels and on its

blog, which it will update daily. Construction Information Services (CIS) is the market leader in providing comprehensive real-time information on all key construction projects across Ireland. For further details on any of the projects listed below, simply use the CIS ID associated with it to enter into the CIS online system. You can view up to five of these every week for free with the latest CIS FREE subscription. T: (RoI) 01 2999 200 or (NI) 028 4064 8110 E: sales@cisireland.com W: www.cisireland.com

CIS ID TITLE CIVIL SECTOR 873012 €200m - Water Treatment Plant 823599 €9m - Wastewater Treatment Plant 836436 €7m - Rehabilitation & Replacement of Watermains

STAGE

CATEGORY

PROJECT VALUE COUNTY

Plans Submitted Utilities Contract Awarded Utilities On Site Utilities

€200,000,000 €9,000,000 €7,000,000

Co. Wicklow Co. Mayo Co. Galway

On Site On Site Tender

Social Sport Sport

€10,000,000 €1,800,000 €65,000,000

Co. Limerick Co. Dublin Co. Kildare

Tender Plans Submitted Plans Submitted Tender Tender

Student Accommodation Hotel Hotel Student Accommodation Residential

€16,000,000 €1,190,000 €7,800,000 €200,000,000 -

Co. Galway Co. Dublin Co. Dublin Co. Dublin Co. Dublin

Plans Submitted Tender Plans Submitted On Site On Site Tender

Office Office Office Office Retail Office

€67,000,000 Co. Dublin €150,000,000 Co. Dublin €44,000,000 Co. Dublin €20,000,000 Co.Dublin €50,000,000 Co. Cork - Co. Tipperary

MEDICAL SECTOR 133896 €710m - National Children’s Hospital 781205 €10m - Primary Care Centre 828584 €7.4m Nursing Home Extension 816285 €6m Ambulance Base

Plans Granted On Site Contract Awarded On Site

Medical Medical Medical Medical

€710,000,000 €10,000,000 €7,400,000 €6,000,000

Co. Dublin Co. Offaly Co. Dublin Co. Dublin

EDUCATION SECTOR 867455 €18m National Childrens Science Centre 872456 €45m College Development 833273 €3.9m School Development 855147 €160k - Fire Safety Works 871926 Maintenance of Access Control System

Plans Granted Plans Submitted On Site Tender Tender

Education Education Education Education Education

€18,000,000 €45,000,000 €3,900,000 €160,650 -

Co. Dublin Co. Dublin Co. Cork Co. Dublin Co. Kilkenny

SPORTS 620957 767312 798904

AND RECREATION SECTOR €10m - Library Building €1.8m - Sports and Community Centre €65m - Racecourse Redevelopment

HOSPITALITY SECTOR 840643 €16m - Student Acommodation 874797 €11.9m - Hotel Development 874806 €7.8m - Hotel Development 834884 €200m - Student Residential 872650 Electrical Maintenance Repairs - Framework COMMERCIAL SECTOR 873746 €67m - Office Development 788254 €150m - Office Development 873485 €44m - Office Development 826395 €20m- Office Development 819055 €50m - Retail Development 873645 Refurbishment of Advance Office Building for IDA Ireland

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ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 47

CASE STUDY – 3 HEAD OFFICE, DUBLIN

THE NEW CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE ROOM AT THE THREE HEAD OFFICE IN DUBLIN IS A FEAST FOR THE SENSES…

3 is the magic number R edesigned by Dublin-based firm, The Building Consultancy, earlier this year, the Customer Experience Room had to demonstrate to clients the services Three is capable of providing in an innovative, concept driven way. Karl O’Donovan, Director at The Building Consultancy, worked on the project.

48 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

“We managed to create quite an animated room as opposed to something static. As there was an issue with echo in the room, we used panels from Ecophon and we specified LED strip lights on the top side of the panels to create a halo effect. We’re very happy with the end result.” Connor O’Hare and Marc Barry from

Premier Contracts designed and supplied the lighting installation, while Andrew Mac Loughlin from Phoenix Electrical installed the system that was ultimately specified. Marc says that because the project was well planned out from the start, and the actual build only took approximately two-and-ahalf weeks.

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CASE STUDY – 3 HEAD OFFICE, DUBLIN

Premier Contracts Unit 53 Parkwest Enterprise Centre, Parkwest, Dublin 12 T: (RoI) 01 612 0564 or (NI) 00353 (1) 612 0564 M: (RoI) 086 0437793 or (NI) 00353 86 0437793 E: info@premiercontracts.ie W: www.premiercontracts.ie

The Building Consultancy 14 Whitefriars, Peter Row, Dublin 2, Ireland T: (RoI) 01 6341000+353 or (NI) 000353 1 6341000 E: info@tbci.ie W: www.thebuildingconsultancy.ie

Pheonix Electrical 7 Church Place, Glenageary, Co. Dublin T: (RoI) 01 285 1139 or (NI) 00353 1 285 1139 E: info@phoenixes.ie W: www.phoenixes.ie

“That included fabrication of all parts and sourcing of systems as well,” he said. “We were working to drawings and had everything pre-planned and prefabricated so we were ready to go in and actually install it on time.” The RGB lighting system that was specified, along with the baffles was a challenge. “We needed to find a solution that worked because when RGB lights are a strip light, they’re very much a straight line,” added Marc. “They’d have maybe a 10-20 degree turning capability on them but we needed them to go a full 360 degrees around the circular baffles. The challenge was to source a product that would satisfy that requirement.”

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The team at Premier Contracts spoke with Andrew O’Hare at CEF Ltd and Joseph Kumor at Lumeno Lighting in Galway who helped them plan out the actual lighting installation before it was designed and supplied. “We didn’t want to use standard, off-theshelf domestic RGB lights so we ended up getting the RGB strip control system from Lumeno in Galway. It’s an excellent system, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it or to use it again. “Joseph from Lumeno was on hand at all times to answer any questions we had; he even answered the phone to me at 8pm in the evening. I can’t recommend them enough.”

Once the system was chosen, Andrew Mac Loughlin set about installing it. “I’ve used the system once or twice before, it’s very straightforward. I’ve used quite a few LED strips over the years; this is definitely one of the most complex while at the same time one of the easiest to use.” Andrew says a significant amount of work was required for the LED strips themselves as each one requires a cable to come back to one central point. “It’s all controlled from one central point; you don’t have to link from one to the other, you can bring a separate cable back each time and control it all from one point. It’s very simple to use and really was the best option for the project.”

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 49

CHARITY EVENTS

THE ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE HIGHLIGHTS SOME OF THE LATEST EVENTS AND APPEALS FROM THE INDUSTRY’S CHARITIES IN BOTH NOTHERN IRELAND AND THE REPUBLIC OF IRELAND...

Electrical Industries Charity launches events to raise £100,000 for local family

he Electrical Industries Charity in Northern Ireland is calling on the industry to trek, golf and party to help raise money to support a local family. The charity is aiming to raise £100,000 by February 2017 - its largest fundraising challenge. This money will help the family of Christopher Hendrie who died from the rare bile duct cancer, cholangiocarcinoma. Christopher was a well-respected electrician and on August 25, 2014 he and his wife found out they were expecting their third child. But, on August 28, 2014, he fell sick with a mystery illness. On September 5, 2014, Christopher was diagnosed with an extremely rare form of cancer, cholangiocarcinoma. Nine weeks later, on October 31, 2014, Christopher passed way in the Mater Hospital, Belfast, following nine weeks of radiation and chemotherapy, with his wife by his side. He was 32-years-old. The events that will help the Electrical Industries Charity hit the £100,000 target include:

The Electrical Industries Charity is raising money to suppoprt the Hendrie family after Christopher died from a rare form of cancer, aged just 32.

• Annual Golf Event, sponsored by Dowds Group – This will take place on September 25-26 at Carton House Golf Club (see page 9 for full details).

• Electric Lunch – This popular annual event has been moved to a new time of year and will now take place on Friday, November 25, 2016 at the Ten Square Hotel, Belfast. Register your interest now – e-mail Karen@kmpltd.co.uk. • Mount Kilimanjaro Trek - The Electrical Industries Charity is looking for 25 enthusiastic, passionate and fit trekkers to climb Mount Kilimanjaro from February 4-13, 2017. The fundraising goal is £5,000 per person and this includes travel cost, accommodation in twin-share room in three-star hotels and comfortable camping, and all costs associated with the climb. The minimum age is 16-years-old (when accompanied by a parent or guardian). To participate contact Tessa Ogle on 020 3696 1710 or e-mail tessa.ogle@electricalcharity.org Nearly half of us will be diagnosed with cancer in our lifetime, and for most it will be our toughest fight. Of the money raised through these events, 10% of the funds will go to Cancer Research UK and the remaining 90% to the Hendrie family.

And they’re off! The IEBA goes to the races

he IEBA’s race meeting fundraiser was held recently on April 10 and was by all accounts a huge success. Over 170 people from the electrical industry attended the Sunday Ballysax Stakes in Leopardstown with representatives from the contracting side, manufacturing, distribution and wholesale enjoying the fine weather and delicious menu on the day. The day was hosted by CEO of Philips Ireland and IEBA President, Cel O’Reilly. Nearly €8,000 was raised during the event for the IEBA - vital funds which will go towards continuing the good work the Association

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is involved in. Founded in 2001, the IEBA has been active in helping many members of the electrical industry and their families who have experienced difficulties with, for example, bereavement, depression, terminal illness, accidental death, special treatments or retraining. The next fundraiser for the IEBA will be the Golf Classic in Powerscourt Golf and Country Club on June 17, with teams of four costing €400. T: 01 429 0088 E: info@irisheba.com W: www.irisheba.com

Cel O’Reilly, IEBA President.

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PEOPLE PROFILE

THE ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE MEETS ATLAS MANAGING DIRECTOR JOHN NESBITT TO TALK ABOUT HIS 30 YEARS WITH THE COMPANY…

30 years for the reluctant salesman!

ince he was convinced to down his tools and move into sales, John Nesbitt hasn’t looked back - with the Managing Director of Atlas recently celebrating over 30 years with the company. He only joined the then Atlas Communications because a neighbour of his father-in-law mentioned that they were looking for electricians. After he was talked into joining the sales team, he then didn’t take an offer to buy the fire and security division seriously. But to put his success in the industry down to being in the right place at the right time would be an over simplification. The fact that he prefers to deflect any praise onto the team at Atlas is a better reflection of his business philosophy. “We have a fantastic team of people at Atlas who are passionate about what we do. I’ve learned the hard way is that you have to play to people’s strengths and we are enjoying the benefits of that at Atlas. “We’ve gone from 17 employees and an annual turnover of £1milion to over 50 employees and a £5million turnover. We’re working right across the UK and as well as fire and security we’ve expanded into the energy, audio visual and maintenance sectors. “Last year we were named as the Fire & Security Contractor of the Year in Northern Ireland and launched our rebranding, so that was a great way to mark my anniversary. “At our most recent strategy meeting to review the progress of our five-year plan we realised that we had already met the objectives that we had set for 2017, so these are exciting times. But as we’ve grown we have never forgotten the customers who helped us build the business. That has been the basis of our success.” After the neighbourly advice saw him join Atlas Communications, first as an engineer and then a supervisor, John was approached to join the sales team. “I was worried about not generating enough sales and getting my commission, so they told me to give

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John Nesbitt, Atlas Managing Director, pictured with a certificate to mark his 30th anniversary.

it a go and then guaranteed my wage for the first six months. I actually did myself out of a lot of commission with that deal!” John helped grow the fire and security side of the business and was soon in need of extra assistance, so he convinced his former apprentice, Robert Creagmile, to join his sales team. “Robert took to sales naturally and over the past 20 years we have worked very closely with our customers to establish strong relationships built upon trust, confidence, service and delivery.” While Atlas Communications changed ownership and its name in the intervening years, the fire and security division continued to grow, with John offered the chance to take it over – which he eventually did alongside Stephen McConnell and Robert Creagmile. “Initially, I didn’t think it was a serious offer but then we realised that the division could possibly be downsized if we didn’t take it on and none of us wanted to see our friends losing their

John is always looking for new ways to expand the business and he is currently exploring the opportunities of thermal imaging surveys using a drone!

jobs. It was a big decision, but one I’m delighted we took.” John is always looking for new ways to expand the business and he is currently exploring the opportunities of thermal imaging surveys using a drone! “I remember a speaker at a conference some years ago telling us about how people would soon be able to watch movies sent to their TV through a phone line and thinking it was all pie in the sky. I’ve learned to take these things seriously now. But you’ll only convince others to embrace this if they trust you, which is why we have to continue to look after all our customers.” Looking ahead, the diehard Liverpool fan is also looking forward to enjoying a few more city breaks and holidays. “I get a lot of stick for my love of holidays but I love getting away, either to Spain or somewhere with great architecture.” T: Atlas on (NI) 028 9039 1000 or (RoI) 048 9039 100 W: www.atlasworld.co.uk

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 53

COMPANY PROFILE

PMcK

THE COMPANY

WOKING ACROSS INDUSTRIAL, COMMERCIAL AND AUTOMATION PROJECTS, THIS EXPERIENCED CONTRACTOR HAS A REPUTATION TO BE PROUD OF…

Local excellence on a global scale S from PMcK Electrical

et in a quiet rural country road, the headquarters of PMcK Electrical Contractors and Engineers is not the setting you would expect for such a leading electrical contractor working with companies from across the globe. But the focus at PMcK Electrical is all about the end product and that philosophy is what has kept the business running so effectively for 30 years. Based just between Dungannon and Moy, the company has made the most of its location by connecting with the strong engineering and food sector surrounding them and providing a local service to some of

the biggest companies in the world. With the majority of business coming via recommendation or the result of long-term partnerships, PMcK Electrical is rightly proud of the strong reputation it has developed over the years. Established in 1986 by Paul McKearney, like many electrical contractors the initial focus of the business was on domestic work. However, not long after establishing the company, Paul’s first big break came with the award a mushroom and composr production facility and the rest, as they say, is history. But Paul has never rested on his laurels and the company’s drive

“We have worked extremely hard to forge strong relationships with local companies.” 54 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

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COMPANY PROFILE

Having the ability to move into new markets can only happen if you have the right personnel and that is one of the key ingredients in PMcK Electrical’s success. to grow into new markets has helped PMcK Electrical stave off the difficulties created by multiple recessions and the challenges to the Northern Ireland economy caused by the Troubles. But having the ability to move into new markets can only happen if you have the right personnel and that is one of the key ingredients in PMcK Electrical’s success. Paul’s son, Peter, is the company’s Contracts Director and he is part of a senior management team that also incorporates two Senior Estimators, three Contracts Managers, a Design Engineer and a Switchgear Engineer. In addition to that, the company

currently has over 40 employees and recently started four new apprentices – a process that PMcK Electrical regularly undertakes to boost its workforce and build for the future. The fact that many current employees started as apprentices is testament to the loyalty that the company generates. That loyalty is very much in evidence in the recurring contracts and relationships that PMcK Electrical has developed over the last three decades. Paul said, “We don’t like to focus on one area in particular and having a variety of work means that, if one type of job dries up,

“Having a variety of work means that, if one type of job dries up, you have something else to rely on.

you have something else to rely on. In the early days, we started working in local factories and as that sector has grown, so have we. “There is such a strong engineering, manufacturing and food sector in Mid-Ulster and border areas and as a local, family company we can react to their needs more effectively. But you only get repeat business by doing a good job and that is where we excel. “We have worked extremely hard to forge strong relationships with local companies and with many of them expanding across the world or being taken over, we have been able to maintain this work.”

PMcK Electrical Contractors and Engineers, 47 Grange Road, Moy, Dungannon, BT71 7EQ T: (NI) 028 8778 4826 or (RoI) 048 8778 4826 – E: info@pmkelectrical.com W: www.pmkelectrical.com

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ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 55

PMcK ASSOCIATES

80th

ANNIVERSARY 1936 - 2016

+44 (0)28 9077 0037 www.ajhurst.com @AJHurstElectric

WORKING WITH 25 MAJOR GLOBAL PARTNERS IN ORDER TO PROVIDE THE BEST TECHNOLOGY ON THE MARKET TO MEET THE INDIVIDUAL BUSINESS NEEDS OF EACH CLIENT WE WORK WITH • Industrial Control & Automation • LV Power Distribution & Surge • Metering & Monitoring • Wireless Data Communication • Machine Safety • Lighting & Lighting Controls • Healthcare Communications

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

QU A L ITY P R OD U CT S C OM P E TITI V E P R I CES EX CE L L E N T D ELI V ER Y S E RV I CE www.centuryelectrical.co.uk

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NEWRY

BELFAST NORTH

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

Unit 3, Coastal Warehouse 83 Dargan Road Belfast BT3 9JU T:+44 (0)28 9077 1950 F: +44 (0)028 9077 0845 E: bns@centuryelectrical.co.uk Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 8.00am - 5.00pm

BELFAST DUNMURRY

COOKSTOWN

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 Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 7.30am - 5.00pm

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

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

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

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COMPANY PROFILE

PMcK

PROJECTS PORTFOLIO

VARIETY IS KEY TO SUCCESS, WITH A WIDE RANGE OF PROJECTS CARRIED OUT ACROSS THE UK, IRELAND AND FURTHER AFIELD…

Projects completed far and wide

hile the engineering sector in and around Dungannon remains a strong foundation, the expertise of PMcK Electrical has expanded not just beyond County Tyrone, but across Great Britain, Ireland and further afield. At the moment the company’s work is evenly divided, with 50% on reactive and preventative maintenance and the other 50% on new build projects. Both feed into each other, however, with the company more often than not securing the maintenance contract on any new build projects the team has worked on. “We pride ourselves on our high standards and when a company sees the lengths you go to for a new build project they want to see that continuing throughout the life of the building,” explained Peter McKearney, Contracts Director. “We also have the case that companies we work with locally are expanding across Great Britain, Ireland

or further afield and, as they know we are reliable, then they turn to us for their projects.” This process has been married with a natural progression that has created a number of new opportunities. The company recently completed a new Holiday Inn in Manchester, the Tullow Community College and Kilcullen National School in the Republic of Ireland as part of a 1.2million Euro bundle contract and also spent a year in Aberdeen completing three major hotels – starting with a 180-bedroom hotel and then completing a 160-bedroom and a 240-bedroom hotel simultaneously. All the Aberdeen projects were for the same developer, again showcasing PMcK Electrical’s reliability. Closer to home, extensive maintenance work carried out over the years for the engineering sector opened the door to three new build projects in Dungannon and Coalisland.

Powerscreen is one of the world’s leading providers of mobile crushing and screening equipment and is part of the hugely successful Terex Corporation. Another example of the long-term staff at the company, James Devlin was appointed Contracts Manager for the first time on these projects. “We worked closely with Terex and the main contractor, Henry Bros Ltd, on these projects to ensure we met their specific needs,” said James. “These sites are dealing with enquiries and orders from around the world, so they are running 24 hours a day, seven days a week. From previous experience of working with us, they knew we could provide the reliability they needed to deliver a high quality job.” Juggling all these projects puts pressure on the company – but it is a problem that PMcK Electrical is happy to contend with. “We have a full order book for 2016 so we can plan ahead with confidence,” added Peter. “Every project comes with a tight deadline, so our focus is implementing ways to work smarter, not harder. Our relationships with suppliers and manufacturers helps with that process as we are always keen to embrace new technology that makes the installation process simpler.”

PMcK Electrical Contractors and Engineers, 47 Grange Road, Moy, Dungannon, BT71 7EQ T: (NI) 028 8778 4826 or (RoI) 048 8778 4826 – E: info@pmkelectrical.com W: www.pmkelectrical.com

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ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 57

PMcK ASSOCIATES

SUPPLIERS OF: • SOLAR PV AND RENEWABLES • CCTV DATA AND DESIGN • ELECTRICAL ACCCESSORIES AND LAMPS • FIRE & SECURITY ALARM DESIGN • LIGHTING DESIGN • HEATING & VENTILATION • CABLE AND CONDUITS

58 Boucher Place, Belfast BT12 6HT. T: 028 9066 1177 - F: 028 9038 1502 E: belfast.244@eel.co.uk

Electrical Control, Switchgear & Energy Saving Specialists Unit 14 Ballysaggart Business Complex, Dungannon, BT70 1BS T 028 8772 5033 - F 028 8772 7618 - www.demesne.ie Working with PMcK Electrical, 310 number Aura Fittings were installed in all 4 Terex Buildings covering 3 sites, providing excellent performance and cost savings compared to the existing 400 Watt high bay fittings. One huge advantage was the occupancy/ daylight saving sensor, which allowed the light fittings to be switched off for long periods of time due to the natural light available.

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COMPANY PROFILE

PMcK

SWITCHBOARD

THE COMPANY’S OWN MANUFACTURING FACILITY DELIVERS SWITCHBOARDS AND MOTOR CONTROL CENTRES WHILE CUSTOMERS CAN ALSO BENEFIT FROM AN EXPERIENCED INSTALLATION AFTERSALES TEAM SPECIALISING IN INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION, POWER & CONTROL SYSTEMS…

Switchboard solutions an added string to the bow

ne of the unique factors of working with PMcK Electrical Contractors & Engineers is the fact the company has its own manufacturing facility for switchboards and motor control centres. Created due to rising customer demand for a total turnkey package as well as the company’s passion for high standards, this division of the company meets the requirements of the industrial sector. This bespoke service is carried out on a variety of platforms for developing electronic controls, SCADA systems, PLC control, Microsoft Windows interfaces and HMI touchscreens. All the systems are designed, manufactured and installed by a highly experienced team. This service is backed by a 24/7 call-out service to ensure that critical parts are always available.

Every electrical control panel is fully inspected, checked and recorded during every stage of the manufacturing process and, on completion receives a full, in-depth electrical safety and function test to meet the requirements of ISO9001. PMcK Electrical also manufactures a range of motor control centres, ranging from simple DOL starters up to Form 4 multi-cubicle sectioned panels. The flexibility of the design enables the same basic construction to be used for the incorporation of a wide spectrum of technologies. This can include conventional electro-mechanical starter components, PLCs, variable speed drives, soft start units and intelligent motor managers/starters communicating on diverse but standard communications protocols, ie profibus, devicenet, Modbus etc. All this is backed an ISO9001 Quality Management system, ensuring full

traceability throughout the entire project and a rigorous continuous improvement programme to ensure that the company constantly improves its products. Thanks to the company’s relationships and key partnerships with various manufacturers and suppliers, PMcK Electrical can supply AC inverters and variable speed drives at competitive prices. Paul McKearney, Managing Director, explained, “From the early days of the company we have worked in the industrial sector and as this part of our business has grown the demand for switchboards and motor controls centres has grown with it. “Our customers wanted a turnkey package that included the design, install and commissioning so by introducing our own manufacturing facility we were able to have greater control over all these aspects while offering our customers complete peace of mind. “We are also Cubic Partners, who are world leaders in modular switchgear solutions, and with fully trained design and panel builders, PMcK can meet the power and control needs of industrial and commercial projects.”

PMcK Electrical Contractors and Engineers, 47 Grange Road, Moy, Dungannon, BT71 7EQ T: (NI) 028 8778 4826 or (RoI) 048 8778 4826 – E: info@pmkelectrical.com W: www.pmkelectrical.com

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ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 59

Harpers Have it... Consumer units designed to comply with the latest 17th edition Amendment 3 of the BS7671 wiring regulations.

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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

Overall Achievement Award

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

BARRY HURST, DIRECTOR, SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC, PROVIDES INSIGHTFUL ADVICE FOR COMPANIES TO CONSIDER WHEN FOCUSING ON ENERGY EFFICIENCY…

Five steps to energy efficiency success

oday’s business owners are under pressure to make their facilities operate more efficiently amid falling generating capacity, rising energy demand and cost. Operating costs remain high in many regions and energy is a primary driver for businesses seeking to lower OpEx. Energy efficiency regulations have also pushed owners into understanding and reducing workplace energy use.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY DIRECTIVE IN THE EU In the years leading up to the 2015 United Nations Conference on Climate Change in Paris, participating nations became increasingly focused on reducing fossilfuel-based emissions. Improving the energy efficiency of businesses became a critical component of these plans. To this end, the member states of the European Union (EU) passed an important regulation, the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED). As a quick refresh, the EED is follow-up legislation to the EU’s climate and energy package (EEP). It is designed to drive measurable change across the energy spectrum – from production to consumption to tracking and analysis. If successful, the EED will bridge the gap between existing framework directives and national energy efficiency measures to help the EU achieve its 20% by 2020 reduction target.

WORKING WITH SUPPLIERS Energy audits are mandatory first steps to compliance under these directives, and must be repeated at least every four years to maintain compliance. Many companies, large and small, are finding difficulties allocating internal resources for audits, not to mention needing the qualifications required for carrying out investigations thoroughly. In a recent poll, Schneider Electric revealed that over 40 per cent of respondents find understanding obligations the greatest challenge. German manufacturing giant Alfred Kärcher was looking to ensure sustainable energy conservation and legal compliance by undertaking energy audits in line with the EED. Schneider Electric conducted a survey of the company’s energy usage data and created a roadmap for achieving its goals. By turning to a partner, Kärcher could rely on

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the process being managed centrally and for any technical requirements to be delivered holistically. By working with a reputable, qualified partner, businesses stand to benefit significantly from energy audits. By implementing the changes identified businesses can help their bottom line with regards to reducing energy bills, as well as improve performance in other energy efficiency schemes such as the Climate Change Agreement (CCA) and the Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC). Once an audit has been carried out, it’s important to leverage the benefits. Here are five actions that companies should take after audit to ensure energy efficiency success and ongoing compliance: 1 Be prepared for a compliance check. Once your notice of compliance has been submitted, you may be required to provide evidence of how you have complied with the scheme. You will need to keep an evidence pack which contain all aspects of your audits – this needs to be available for the compliance period to which it relates and two subsequent periods 2 Use the data you found. Collecting the full scope of energy use was often the most challenging task for businesses in addressing their obligations. Using the data found and continuing to collect the data from the defined sources will greatly improve visibility

of your energy performance as well as facilitate the next round of obligations 3 Use the ECMs savings towards an Energy Management System. The first steps to implementing an EMS, such as ISO 50001, is to analyse your energy data, to identify ECMs, and to track the progress. With little investment, you could introduce an EMS by 2018, providing exemption from your next phase of obligations 4 Keep tracking your legislative obligations. Take care of interim requirements such as annual qualification assessments (changing from SME to nonSME) or the requirements to submit annual results from ECMs. Accurately tracking and forecasting legislative requirements will ensure strategic decisions can be made well in advance, allowing time to budget and plan accordingly 5 Find a trusted partner to support the continuing the drive for energy efficiency throughout your business. Truly being energy efficient requires going beyond energy audits, addressing procurement strategies, sourcing of efficient equipment, and raising energy management best practice and awareness T: (NI) 0870 608 8608 or (RoI) 0044 870 608 8608 W: www.schneider-electric.com/uk

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ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

MANUFACTURERS & SUPPLIERS OF: • MCC Boards • Form 2 & 4 Distribution Boards • Variable Speed Drives • PLC Control • Multi-metering Cabinets • Energy Measurement • Power Factor Correction • Plus much more

• NO OBLIGATION QUOTATION • FREE DELIVERY Unit 2A Milltown Business Park, Co Monaghan T: 00353 47 72265 - E: info@troypanels.com

www.troypanels.com

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LIGHTING

NEIL WAREHAM, HEAD OF SOUTHERN LIGHTING DESIGN SERVICES AND SOLUTIONS AT YESSS ELECTRICAL, DISCUSSES THE LATEST TRENDS IN OUTDOOR LIGHTING…

SAY YESSS

to outdoor lighting

ncreasingly, the external lighting of buildings has become as important and style-led as the internal options. As new products and technologies come on to the market, the choices and techniques available also grow. Despite this, the specification of lighting to make the most of outdoor spaces is often left until last, despite the fact that the right lighting can significantly add value in the short term and save money in the long term. So, what are customers looking for in terms of lighting for their external spaces? Style and quality are key for both but, increasingly, people are also seeking out energy-saving lighting solutions, and LED lighting has presented the perfect solution to fill that gap. As with all lighting, but in particular outdoor lighting, light pollution is a common issue when products illuminate surrounding areas rather than the actual area required. With energy efficiency remaining a key issue in the industry, it is vital to choose outdoor lighting solutions that offer reduced light pollution in order to save both energy and ultimately, money.

STREET LIGHTING One of the most common forms of outdoor lighting is of course street and car park lighting. Whilst street lighting is undoubtedly a necessity, the costs can often seem extortionate. The maintenance and running costs of street lighting are among the largest costs for councils, as replacing a lamp in a 16-metre-high fitting requires costly expertise and equipment. Due the labour and tools required, a contractor reportedly charged £220 to change one external lamp in a housing estate! Expenses such as this soon mount up, but there are other areas where costs can be reduced. For example, it is becoming increasingly common for street lighting and some car park lighting to be turned off completely to save energy.

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However, this is a drastic move and can mean that safety and security is adversely affected. A more practical way of reducing 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. As with all new technology, there are many alternatives still in a development stage but there are still many options available and, as the technology develops, the associated costs will come down.

REWARDS Compared to traditional methods, the rewards are much greater with an LED alternative, as it uses less energy, lasts longer, and requires less maintenance, proving 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 that 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 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. To find your nearest Yesss Electrical branch visit www.yesss.co.uk

“Compared to traditional methods, the rewards are much greater with an LED alternative.” ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 63

LIGHTING

ROBUS Hawk and Eagle LED surface fittings.

ROBUS Triumph Activate 6W, 8W and 11W LED downlights.

THE NEW 2016 ROBUS CATALOGUE FEATURES OVER 30 NEW LED PRODUCT RANGES, WITH PLENTY MORE PLANNED FOR THE COMING MONTHS…

Quality and technology combined ROBUS Jupiter and Orion bollards from the new outdoor range by ROBUS.

ith the launch of its largest catalogue yet, LED Group ROBUS has introduced over 30 new product ranges, including panels, corrosion proofs, battens, highbays, floodlights and a new premium garden range of outdoor bollards and wall lights. For its outdoor range, ROBUS has launched six new premium outdoor products, including wall lights, spike lights, floodlights and bollards. Bulkheads, lanterns, ground lights, step lights and spotlights are also available and come in IP65 rated versions and a variety of sizes and styles. The company says there’s something for every garden and outdoor setting with these easy-to-install, lowmaintenance and high-quality light fittings. The outdoor range is particularly suited to coastal areas as these products offer high corrosion resistance.

A TRIUMPH OF TECHNOLOGY After the successful launch of the ROBUS Triumph Activate 8 watt LED fire-rated downlight, ROBUS is introducing the new 6 watt and 11 watt versions. All three versions of Triumph Activate are insulation

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coverable and have interchangeable trim bezels with six colours to choose from; they are also suitable with 38 or 60 degree lens accessories. With a high lumen output of 500-900 lumens per watt, it’s easy to see why this family of fittings is being hailed as ‘the triumph of technology’. In the coming weeks, ROBUS will introduce two premium products as part of its popular surface fittings range - Eagle and Hawk. Both products are a premium alternative to the bestselling Golf surface fittings range and come in various sizes and lumen packages. Eagle and Hawk both have streamlined and elegant aesthetics that are designed to complement one another. Hawk provides a highly secure antitampering feature, making it ideal for public spaces. Both products are highly versatile and suited to a range of environments. The new ROBUS catalogue is available in A4 and A5 hard copies at all key stockists and is also available to download from the company’s website. If you would like ROBUS to send you a copy, contact the sales office in Dublin. T: (RoI) 01 709 9000 or (NI) 00353 1 709 9000 W: www.ledgrouprobus.com

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UPS SOLUTIONS

Metartec’s containerised UPS solutions.

BROADCASTED SPORTING EVENTS BENEFIT FROM METARTEC’S BESPOKE CONTAINERISED POWER SOLUTIONS…

Metartec containerised UPS solutions

ver the past two years, Metartec has provided containerised UPS solutions that have been the backbone for a number of major broadcasted sporting events. Metartec was chosen for these projects as it is established as the forerunning supplier of bespoke containerised power solutions. The company’s latest project involved two 300kVA 7 minute containers which included Metartec’s own-brand UPS systems complete with the latest ‘hibernation’ technology for a prestigious summer sporting event held in Greater London. The client’s initial requirement was to provide two systems on a hire basis for the event, with equipment being used to provide back-up support for broadcasting and editing facilities. Rather than a temporary solution, alterations of the specification resulted in the containerised UPS being purchased as part of a large refit programme,

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becoming a permanent asset for the end user. As the systems are located in a residential area, sound is a major factor. Therefore, they have been designed to minimise any noise pollution. Metartec’s solution was to provide two 10ft by 8ft containers fitted out with Metartec’s DECI Modular 300 X9i UPS systems, seismic battery stands, switchgear and emergency lighting. As space is a premium, these stackable containers enabled 600kVA of power to be installed with a minimal spacial footprint onsite.

DECI MODULAR As it is one of the highest power density products on the market with independent power and control sections, Metartec’s DECI Modular 300 X9i was the perfect product for this project. Each unit consists of 10x30kVA power modules within a 300kVA frame which can offer 900KVA in only 1.98m2. This, alongside the

incorporation of the latest ‘hibernation’ technology, ensures that the DECI Modular X9i provides maximum energy efficiency. The large touch-sensitive LCD user interface also allows the end user to easily access the system and individual power module information. Metartec’s DECI Modular UPS already has an established list of high profile customers who have purchased the equipment in a variety of industries, ranging from education to pharmaceutical to government sectors. This particular project comes on the back of a fleet of UPS systems which Metartec currently has on hire with a well-known petro-chemical company in Norway.

“Containerised solutions allow for versatility in temporary or permanent power applications.” FOLLOW US ON:

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UPS SOLUTIONS

ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE Metartec’s engineering excellence is further evident in a larger completed project involving a total of 14 containers assembled and tested in the company’s Belfast facility with a specification ranging from 80kVA to 1.2MVA. These containers were used to support a multi-sporting event in Scotland which was broadcast in over 200 territories worldwide. An on-call facility was provided throughout the duration of the broadcasting, with some lucky Metartec engineers even getting to attend the opening and closing ceremonies. Containerised solutions allow for versatility in temporary or permanent power applications. At the end of 2015, Metartec created a permanent Mobile Energy Centre for a well-known French automotive company with a base in North London. This 30ft container was split into two compartments and consisted of a generator, bulk fuel storage, switchboard, UPS, power factor correction and air conditioning. Due to the location of this permanent structure, the container had to be

designed externally to compliment the aesthetics of the surrounding environment. Metartec are pioneers of innovation and this is reflected in the creation of the company’s SCADA Remote Monitoring System. SCADA, like all Metartec’s solutions, is open protocol, enabling users to view their containerised systems anywhere in the world via RS485/ Modubs integration 24/7/365, and subsequently assess the unit’s status. It also encourages proactive response to system alarms. Not only do Metartec have a complete range of standard products, its engineering expertise extends to configured products including combining hybrid technology with solar PV systems, as well as the application of UPS and generators to containerised solutions. Experience with bespoke and innovative products allows Metartec to create solutions that suits the needs of the most discerning customers in the most demanding timeframes. T: (NI) 0845 5040 444 or (RoI) 1980 818 189 E: info@metartec.com W: www.metartec.com.

THE CRITICAL POWER SPECIALISTS HIRE & CONTAINERISED SOLUTIONS

BATTERY SYSTEMS

OPEN PROTOCOL UPS SYSTEMS

METARTEC SCADA

Talk to us today (NI) 0845 5040 444 or (RoI) 1980 818 189 E: info@metartec.com

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Metartec’s 30ft containerised Mobile Energy Centre, for a well-known French automotive company.

Metartec’s DECI Modular 300 X9i incorporates the latest ‘hibernation’ technology and large touch-sensitive LCD screen.

Metartec offer: • UPS • Generators • LV Switchgear • UPS & Generator Maintenance • Hire Solutions • Batteries • Ad Hoc Repairs • Power Factor Correction • Thermal Imaging • Electrical Energy Efficiency Products • Solar PV Equipment

SOLAR PV

MAINTENANCE & REPAIR

www.metartec.com

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 67

FIRE AND SECURITY

TRADITIONAL VALUES, CUTTING EDGE TECHNOLOGY AND INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE COMBINE TO PROVIDE A RANGE OF BESPOKE SOLUTIONS…

A specialist service from Specialised Fire & Security

Stephen Jeffrey, Operations Director, (left) and John Moore, Contracts Director, of Specialised Fire & Security.

ombining traditional values with cutting edge technology, Specialised Fire & Security enjoys a reputation built around results. Established three years ago by John Moore, the company prides itself on having the wide-ranging industry experience to tailor fire and security services for each individual. John has been in the business for nearly 30 years and that extensive experience was enhanced last year when Stephen Jeffrey, who also has over 30 years’ industry experience, joined the company as Operations Director. It was the reemergence of a partnership which started many years ago at VIS. “Stephen and I worked together for many years and even then we talked about running our own business,” explained John, who is the company’s Contracts Director. “Stephen is one of the most well-known and respected people in the industry and I was delighted when he agreed to join the company. A year on and we’re really starting to see the results of his influence.” Coupled with John’s reputation and extensive experience, the team’s hands-on approach makes for a winning combination. “We don’t hide behind a desk or a service team but prefer to be out on site with our customers,” added John. “We feel we

“We have developed our service into a one-stop-shop approach.” 68 | ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

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FIRE AND SECURITY

Stephen Jeffrey (seated) and John Moore, combine traditional plans with cutting edge technology for the next Specialised Fire & Security project.

Complete package... Specialised Fire & Security offers a wide range of services, both from design, installation and commissioning through to maintenance. This includes: • Fire alarm systems - As a BAFE accredited company, Specialised Fire & Security designs, installs, commissions and provides ongoing service and maintenance of all forms of fire and electronic security systems. These bespoke systems are functional, reliable and are tailored to the customers’ needs. • Intruder alarms - Specialised Fire & Security is accredited for the design, installation and maintenance of electronic security systems including intruder alarms with remote signalling to PD6662 and BS8243; access control to NCP 109; and CCTV systems to NCP 104.

are more proactive on the ground as that is where we can put our industry experience to better use. “It gives us the opportunity to listen to our customers and has helped us develop our services into a one-stop-shop approach by offering extras like fire risk assessments and emergency lighting. You can only react to customers’ needs if you are there to listen in the first place.” This philosophy also plays an integral role in the company’s approach to every project, with the initial design stages seen as critical. Once again, this is why the experience of Specialised Fire & Security is so important. Stephen explained, “Clients often have an idea of what they would like but no concept of how to achieve it. Our job is to turn that into a reality and that is why the initial design stages are so important, particularly as the time factors on every project are so tight.” Specialised Fire & Security works across a diverse range of sectors, offering design, installation, commissioning and maintenance services. In addition to a growing list of blue chip clients, the company is strong in the hospitality, retail, commercial and industrial sectors. A lot of business has been gained

“We remain cost-competitive but, at the same time, we refuse to cut corners on quality and will only use recognised manufacturers.” through reputation and recommendation, which is a ringing endorsement of the services the company provides. However, Specialised Fire & Security don’t just pay lip service to quality. An insistence on only using quality products has allowed partnerships to be developed with leading manufacturers such as Kentec Electronics, Apollo Detection Solutions, Honeywell Galaxy, Pyronix, Paxton and Hikvision, amongst others. The company also has a range of accreditations, including NSI and BAFE. John added, “We remain cost-competitive but, at the same time, we refuse to cut corners on quality and will only use recognised manufacturers. While we pride ourselves on our traditional values of service, our relationships with the leading manufacturers mean we are also at the cutting edge of technology. It’s a great balance to have.”

• Network CCTV - As leading designers of CCTV systems, the company provides an extensive range of both analogue and digital IP CCTV solutions from single camera systems to a large multi-camera/ multi-site system. • Access control - Depending on your requirements, Specialised Fire & Security designs the ideal system to meet your needs via a free site survey. The company supplies, installs and provides continued maintenance on all manner of access control systems, from a single, one-way audio or video intercom systems to large multi-user/multi-door/ multi-site card access systems. These can be integrated into other systems as required. • Security lighting - The company’s security lighting solutions provide perimeter detection for properties and, in addition to being a strong deterrent to intruders, it can also be configured to give the user an early warning of unexpected visitors at any time of the day or night. This degree of perimeter detection provides an early warning of any visitors to your property long before they reach your home or business.

Specialised Fire & Security, 17 Cronstown Cottage Avenue, Newtownards, BT23 8QD T: (NI) 028 9099 2377 or (RoI) 048 9099 2377 E: info@specialisedfiresecurity.com www.specialisedfiresecurity.com

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ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 69

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 company which 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 it also 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. Its Tri-rated cable holds both UL and CSA accreditations and its 2491X and 2491B cables are BASEC approved. 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

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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 2491B/6701B low smoke zero halogen cables, 2491X panel wires 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

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COMPANY NEWS

GLEN DIMPLEX NI APPOINTS NEW TECHNICAL SALES REPRESENTATIVES IN NORTHERN IRELAND…

Gary and Chris join the team at Glen Dimplex

len Dimplex NI has restructured the company’s heating and ventilation division with two new appointments. The company now has two new representatives based in Northern Ireland, providing greater coverage to support its existing customer base. Gary Swann, who will work within counties Antrim, Derry-Londonderry and Tyrone, joins Glen Dimlex NI from Firmus Energy, while Chris Taylor, who will work within Down, Armagh and Fermanagh, has many years’ experience within the ventilation and specification sector. Heating and Ventilation Sales Manager, Jamie Boyd, said, “We have had success in the past with specification work, and the intention is to do more of that to create activity for our customer base. With the appointment of Gary and Chris we can provide complete heating and ventilation solutions for many existing and new applications. This not only ensures the correct product selection, but also places us in a position to support this process.”

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Glen Dimplex NI’s new Technical Sales Representatives, Gary Swann and Chris Taylor.

Glen Dimplex NI offers a range of Dimplex and Xpelair products as part of its heating and ventilation solutions. As a global market leader in electric space and water heating, Dimplex offers a range of electrical heating solutions. Xpelair (part of Redring Xpelair Group) is one of the most recognised ventilation brands in the world and focuses on ‘air quality innovation’. The Xpelair ventilation range has recently been

transformed into state-of-the-art, innovative products. For more information, contact one of Glen Dimplex NI’s new technical sales representatives – telephone Gary Swann on 07880 740 957 or e-mail gary.swann@glendimplex.com; you can contact Chris Taylor on 07917 544 334 or e-mail chris.taylor@glendimplexni.co.uk

ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 71

CONTROLS

EVBPSBB Power Supply.

ESP has relaunched its access control range under the umbrella name Aperta.

SIMPLIFIED COLLECTION OF PRODUCTS FOCUSES ON EASE OF INSTALLATION AND SIMPLE OPERATION…

Aperta - the new name for ESP’s access control range

nnovative security products supplier, ESP, has relaunched its access control range, with a simplified collection of products and a new brand name. The revamped range will come under the umbrella name Aperta - the Italian word meaning to open, allow access, passage, or a view through a space – and has been designed with ease of installation and operation as key features. With just two main components – door station, with optional access control keypad and the hands-free monitor – the Aperta range will allow the creation of anything from a single door entry system to a multiusage system. The Aperta access control range offers superb video and audio quality and comprises the following products: • Two door entry kits; the APKIT includes a colour monitor and door station, while the APKITKP includes colour monitor and door station with door release option via the keypad. They will both connect up to 4 monitors. • Multi Apartment Door Station (APDSMW), which includes door release via keypad and will connect up to 32 handsets. • Optional monitor with GUI (graphic user interface) menu incorporated for advanced options and includes SD card record facility.

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The Aperta video door entry systems utilise two-wire technology, which offers many benefits and advantages over traditional video door entry systems. For simplicity and for time-efficient installations, the two-wire technology provides a friendly platform by reducing the number of cores required for connection and requires just one power supply unit. This ensures that just one PSU needs to be concealed and supplied with just a single electrical mains supply. ESP has developed new instruction manuals to support the range. They are designed to enhance the simplicity of installation, by incorporating easy-to-follow, step-by-step graphics which take the user through the installation and programming processes.

EZ-TAG3 keypad and proximity reader.

DEVELOPMENTS The launch of the Aperta range adds to recent developments in ESP’s range of access control products, with the addition of the EVBPSBB Power Supply and the EZ-TAG3 keypad and proximity reader. The ESP EVBPSBB is a new power supply with battery back-up for lock releases which has been added to the accessory collection. For use with its single-way and multiway door entry systems and access control systems, the 2 amp 12vDC boxed power supply will help maintain the security of your door from intermittent and prolonged loss of power, and thus provide reassurance. It is designed to offer simple install

and wiring connections, supports 12vDC battery backup and comes with battery leads supplied. It also provides output for fail-safe and fail-secure lock, and 12vDC output control for auxiliary devices. Featuring an adjustable 20-second timer control for lock output and power indication LED, it is ideal for those installations that require round-the-clock door security, such as schools, hospitals and care homes. ESP has also recently launched the EZTAG3 – a sleek new keypad and proximity reader, designed to provide a compact, durable and vandal-resistant solution for a wide variety of access control applications. EZ-TAG3 replaces the previous EZ-TAG2 version, to introduce a more sophisticated model with additional benefits, which include a doorbell function, as well as new, improved, easy programming to facilitate installation. This IP65-rated, weatherproof, combined access control keypad with proximity tag or pin code activation can accommodate up to 1,010 key tag holders or pin numbers. EZ-TAG3 is available as a controller-only, for the upgrade of existing systems, or as part of a handy kit format, which provides all the elements required for a professional system installation in a single convenient, boxed unit. T: (NI) 01527 515 150 or (RoI) contact Click Litehouse on 01 2811 122 E: sales@clicklitehouse.ie W: www.espuk.com or www.clicklitehouse.ie

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TRAINING FOR YOU YOUR EMPLOYER YOUR INDUSTRY

TRAINING WORKS

BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT COURSES

• ILM Level 3 First Line Management NEW • Financial accounts for electrical contractors • Reading and analysing financial statements for Managers and Directors CITY & GUILDS

HEALTH & SAFETY

ELECTRICAL

Construction Skills Register Date: June 13 Price: £90

Intro to Programmable Logic Controllers SPRING Date: August 2 OFFER Price: £100

2394 Initial Verification Date: August 8, 9 and 10 Price: £425

Construction Skills Register Date: July 6 Price: £90

Advanced Estimating Date: November 30

2395 Periodic Inspection Date: August 16, 17 and 18 Price: £425

Working at Heights Date: June 15 Price: £145

Introduction to Thermography Date: October 25

EW N

5% DISCOUNT

EW N

2382-15 BS7671: 2008 (2015) 17th Edition Date: August 2, 3 and 4 Price: £395

WHEN YOU BOOK AND PAY ONLINE T&C’s APPLY

Ballymena: Units 57-59, Ballymena Business Centre, 62 Fenaghy Road, Ballymena Armagh: Armagh Business Centre, 2 Loughgall Road, Armagh T: (NI) 028 2565 0750 – T: (RoI) 028 2565 0750 – E: enquiries@ett-ni.org APPROVED CENTRE

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TRAINING WORKS

TOP TIPS FOR FIRST TIME SUCCESS FROM NORTHERN IRELAND’S AM2 CENTRE...

Plan, prepare and perform

he NET approved AM2 Test Centre in Ballymena provides an assessment service to a wide range of stakeholders on behalf of the local industry. Apprentices, adult learners and others make use of the facilities to acquire part of the essential, accredited evidence leading to electrical installation competency. During the period, the scope and content of the two-and-a-half day test has been modified to reflect some of the changes in materials, technologies and working practices within the modern industry. The AM2 assessment continues to present a challenge to the majority of candidates coming forward. Inspection and testing, along with the online knowledge test in particular, present the most common difficulties for those who wish to undertake a first-time, successful attempt of the assessment.

TIPS FOR AM2 FIRST-TIME SUCCESS – ‘PREPARE’

repare – The assessment is based on the knowledge and practice of the trade. You must be prepared to prepare your apprentice. Those who are prepared are much more likely to pass on the first attempt. The employer becomes one step closer to the £1,500 employer incentive, and the candidate becomes one step closer, to completing the overall qualification. Failing to prepare is like preparing to fail. evise – Your apprentice will need to go back to the theory books and may also require practical support from you. AM2 is sometimes erroneously considered to be the means of becoming an electrician. When it is, in fact, a piece of stand- alone evidence that must be incorporated into an approved qualification. valuate – Before approving an application by your apprentice to undertake an AM2 assessment, take some time to consider if the person is ready. You

Karl McNaughten GB Data, Harris Kernohan ETT AM2 Assessor, Lindsay Gordon ETT.

may find it useful to talk this over with a training officer or a college lecturer. The scope and requirements of the assessment are freely available to both the employer and the apprentice from the centre. rovide – Opportunity to practice inspection and testing skills is vital. Your apprentice will be required to undertake initial verification testing, on simulated rigs, under close scrutiny. Therefore, it might be useful to provide them with help in the workplace, or allow some time off to undertake a recognised AM2 preparation course. sk – ETT welcomes questions from employers and apprentices about preparing for the AM2 skills test. If you’ve got a question about cost, timing, scope or content of the test, get in touch. esults – Only a minority of apprentices pass on the first attempt at the AM2 assessment. The main area of failure is the online theory test. This is a 20-question multi-choice online test, scheduled to last 60 minutes. Apprentices must refresh their knowledge of electrical principles, BS7671 Wiring Requirements and Health and Safety. As a guide, ETT recommends a minimum commitment towards preparation

A R

and revision of one hour per question. ncourage – Everyone likes to be encouraged. Young apprentices, in particular, need the backing and encouragement of their employers as they go forward for the AM2 skills test. This is a good time to offer your apprentice practical help and advice. Some apprentices may not have had an opportunity to work on certain wiring systems or had much experience with your test instruments. Remember what it was like when you were young - a word of encouragement goes a long way.

PREPARATION COURSE ETT runs an AM2 Preparation Course to help candidates achieve first time success. It looks at the most difficult areas of the exam, including fault diagnosis, practical training, inspection and testing and the online assessment. It also provides some sample questions in a simulated exam room, helping candidates get more familiar with the structure and pressures of the online exam. For more information on the AM2 test and the preparation course call Lindsay on 028 2565 075.

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TRAINING WORKS

You can acCOUNT on us

o you need to know more about your company’s accounts, but are afraid to ask? Do you understand what questions you should be asking? Businesses flourish or fail every day depending on the response to questions such as these. The ultimate commercial measurement of success is summarised on our behalf in a few pages each year, and audited by an accountant. The compilation of annual accounts always contains information, trends and outcomes that are extremely beneficial to the savvy business owner, and their management team. Would you like to learn more, and improve the control of your business’s, financial affairs? Why not take part in one of ETT’s two new business improvement courses? These include:

INTRODUCTION TO FINANCIAL ACCOUNTS FOR ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS This course is perfect for new business owners or for those who just want to get a grip on the fundamentals of modern business accounting.

READING AND ANALYSING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR MANAGERS AND DIRECTORS This course is aimed at boosting the management and leadership knowledge of you and/or the members of your management team. Find out how others assess your results and what you should do to improve your business performance. For more information call ETT on 028 2565 0750.

People leave managers, not companies

o business, no matter how big or small, can afford to underestimate the value of a good manager. Evidence shows that half of all workers leave their job due to poor management. How many times have you heard - “He doesn’t know what he’s doing”, “She doesn’t have a clue” It’s a fact - bad managers reduce employee job satisfaction and motivation, so your business suffers from low staff morale and poor performance even before people quit. When staff do leave, you face further disruption and loss of productivity, on top of the cost of recruiting and training a replacement. One of the most effective ways to improve your managers’ people management skills is to invest in training and development. A staggering 59% of electrical contractors reported that they need training in Leadership and Management in the ETT 2016 Industry Survey. One of the top concerns for employers is the lack of leadership and management capabilities within their business. ETT has taken this feedback on board and will be delivering a new range of leadership and management courses from September 2016. Why not take some time out of your busy schedule for a few weeks and help address some of the key concerns and worries managers have – • Improve personal and team performance • Improve the purpose and outcome of meetings • Improve personal productivity and get more out of your day • Improve decision and time management skills Who: Existing managers or those wanting to become managers What: ILM Level 3 Certificate in First Line Management Where: ETT, Ballymena When: September 27, 2016, 10am – 1pm for 12 weeks For more information or to register get in touch with Amanda on 028 2565 0750.

“If you want to learn about management theories this isn’t the course for you. This course is very practical. Each day I came away with different tools that I took straight back to the office. It gave me exactly what I needed to help both me and my team become more productive, which led to my promotion.” Amanda McCloskey, Business Development Manager.

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ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 75

RENEWABLES

ELECTRICAL INDUSTRY WILL CONTINUE TO BENEFIT FROM IRELAND’S CONTINUING INVESTMENT IN WIND TURBINES…

Billions to be invested in wind energy by 2020

s new projects are built to enable Ireland to meet its 2020 renewable energy targets, the Irish Wind Energy Association (IWEA) says the construction sector – and is turn the electrical industry - is set to benefit from close to €500m of investment in wind energy projects. According to the IWEA this investment will occur over the next four years. The figures, which were revealed at IWEA’s Annual Conference held recently in Dublin, show that the wind energy sector is also set to invest €162million in local advisory services and €54million in transport. IWEA says landowners are also in line for €108million of investment as wind energy companies seek to acquire suitable land and lease contracts for their projects. Entitled ‘Energy Matters’, the conference heard that 300MW of wind energy needs to be installed each year to avoid Ireland falling behind on meeting its 40% renewable electricity target. Brendan Heneghan, Interim CEO of IWEA, said, “The investment numbers we’re highlighting at the conference only relate to the required wind energy to meet Ireland’s 2020 targets. However, if we were to develop more wind energy, for example to meet the growing electricity demand from data centres, Ireland would be in line for further investment and reap other side benefits such as lower electricity prices for both domestic and industrial consumers.” Speakers at the IWEA Conference included Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Alex White; Fintan Slye, Chief Executive, EirGrid; Garrett Blaney, Commissioner, Commission for Energy Regulation; Dr Frank McGovern, Head of Climate Change Research and Science, EPA; and Kristian Ruby, Chief Policy Officer, European Wind Energy Association. Speakers at the event also talked about how the incoming Government must act decisively to create certainty around Ireland’s energy policy and regulatory environment and underline its commitment to the recent White Paper on Energy, otherwise it risks losing out on significant investment in renewable energy and face into significant EU fines. Ireland is just over halfway towards meeting its renewable energy targets and failure to

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Garrett Blaney, Commissioner, Commission for Energy Regulation.

IWEA Interim CEO Brendan Heneghan

Delegates enjoy the IWEA’s annual conference.

meet the EU’s Climate and Energy targets by the 2020 deadline will result in noncompliance penalties, potentially amounting to between €100million and €150million per year for each percentage shortfall in renewable energy and a further €250m in emissions permit purchases. In a new document launched at the conference, IWEA set out the key energy challenges and priorities for the new Government to maintain momentum and sustain an environment that continues to attract direct investment in renewable energy, whilst also maximising the contribution of wind energy development to the economy and local communities. These include: Eliminating contradictory approaches through better joined up thinking and coordination between Government departments and state agencies Examining and progressing opportunities for communities to take a more direct involvement in renewable energy projects locally Promoting the understanding of clean energy use in communities Creating clarity and certainty around future support mechanisms to ensure continued investment in Irish clean energy such as wind, solar, other renewables and supporting technologies

Maintaining a clear voice for local authorities on planning local energy infrastructure whilst ensuring that local planning is interlinked with regional and national objectives Encouraging and incentivising the take up of local renewable energy microgeneration and the autoproduction of renewable energy, whereby local companies produce their own electricity on-site Creating stronger Governmental accountability and clear responsibility for sustainable and inclusive grid infrastructure delivery to enable Ireland achieve its EU climate change targets. Commenting, Brendan Heneghan said: ““The energy challenges Ireland currently faces could be compounded by our largest energy trading partner leaving the EU and the energy choices made by our incoming Government will impact long beyond its political term. Vision, clear leadership, policy certainty and long-term commitment will see Ireland overcome these challenges, realise a great economic opportunity and allow us to deliver a cleaner, secure and more sustainable energy future for our communities and our children.” T: (RoI) 045 899341 or (NI) 00353 45 899341 E: office@iwea.com W: www.iwea.com

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ELECTRICAL EXCELLENCE AT THE NEW WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE... g

A welcome return to the Waterfront

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M&E Contractor WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, BELFAST

20 YEARS SINCE THE COMPANY PROVIDED AN INNOVATIVE SOLUTION AT THE WATERFRONT HALL, HARVEY GROUP AGAIN SIMPLIFIES A COMPLEX M&E INSTALLATION FOR THE NEW WORLD-CLASS EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE…

Harvey Group’s encore at new Waterfront Hall extension

hen it comes to Design & Build (D&B), HG (Harvey Group PLC) is the company to turn to. Almost 20 years after Harvey Group PLC first installed the mechanical building services to the original Waterfront Hall, the company has once again returned to deliver the M&E design and installation of the new Waterfront Hall extension. The new £30million Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre, which was contracted under an NEC Option A form of contract, enabled Harvey Group to showcase the company’s ability to manage the full design and installation of the £11million building services installation. Aiming for - and attaining - a BREEAM Certification of ‘Very Good’, Harvey Group, through its r design development

partnership with White Young Green, was able to increase the energy efficiency of particular aspects of the building by introducing higher efficiency LED lighting and heating systems. Working closely with the integrated supply team, the company also undertook to produce 3D co-ordinated drawings to marry the old and new services together and produce subsequent operational information for the client. This innovative approach to building services integration is something that Harvey Group has fully incorporated into the company’s standards and Harvey Group has recently been accredited with industrial recognition for its BIM Level 2 implementation – the first M&E supplier in Northern Ireland to have been so.

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M&E Excellence... The mechanical and electrical installation by Harvey Group at the Waterfront extension included:

ELECTRICAL

Commercial Manager, Ryan McLernon, commented, “The new Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre allowed us to demonstrate a few of our Unique Selling Points (USPs) in a competitive marketplace. Design and Build is one such USP. “We contracted M&E consultants and were wholly responsible for the effective design and installation of the building, successfully meeting all targeted performances and, in some instances, bettering them. “Also, we were able to add to our growing portfolio of NEC projects, which require full team buy-in to maximise the benefit for the client and ensure value for money. We share in the ethos of NEC, in that, we wish to partner other parties in

the supply team and carry out the works in a team environment, where trust and cooperation are key ingredients. “We find our experience in these areas, along with our tried and tested experience with projects of this size, aids in a successful completion and a building that the client is happy with.” During a recent visit by the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Arder Carson, said, “I’m blown away by what we’ve been shown today and firmly believe that business delegates travelling to Belfast will feel the same, once they step inside this outstanding space.” The Waterfront Hall extension is hailed as the most significant and exciting project for tourism since the opening of Titanic Belfast, which Harvey Group also completed.

• HV distribution • Sub mains/LV distribution • Generator set • Lightning and surge protection • High efficiency LED lighting installation • Emergency lighting installation • General/mechanical/technical power installation • State of the art audio visual installation • ICT/data installation • WiFi installation • Fire alarm installation • Aspirating system • PA/VA • CCTV • Infrared induction installation • Associated Infrastructure installation

MECHANICAL • Domestic services including sanitary ware • New ultra-efficient Hoval Ultragas boilers • Underfloor heating to reception areas • Variable temperature heating system • CHP integration • Fan coil installation • New ultra-quiet chiller installation • Chilled water installation • Ventilation installation including high efficiency AHUs • Smoke ventilation and fire control • Kitchen and banqueting installations • VRF AC to comms rooms • Trend BMS system

Harvey Group, 14 Glenwel Park, Newtownabbey, Co Antrim, BT36 7RF T: 028 9034 2444 – E: info@harveygroup.co.uk www.harveygroup.co.uk

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IT Infrastructure WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, BELFAST

SPECIALISTS DELIVER A BEST IN CLASS SYSTEM THAT GIVES THIS NEW VENUE A DISTINCT COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE…

KNI delivers major IT infrastructure overhaul

n July 2015, KNI was contracted by Harvey Group to deliver an IT infrastructure overhaul at the new Waterfront Hall Conference and Exhibition Centre. The project formed part of a £31million investment which would see the Belfast’s premier concert venue extended with a state-of-the-art conferencing and exhibition centre under the brief of main contractor McLaughlin & Harvey. In the extremely competitive conferencing market, state-of-the-art IT facilities are a pre-requisite and can offer venues a distinct competitive advantage. With this in mind, one of the Waterfront’s key objectives centred on enhancing network performance and ensuring that visitors had access to a ‘best in class’ user IT experience. An experienced systems integrator with a wealth of experience in a variety of integrated solutions, KNI was well equipped to tackle the project; it was also in the

process of completing a similarly complex and transformational installation close by. With the proliferation of smart phones and tablets, any modern-day conference facility has to offer connectivity for a large number of mobile devices. A high density wireless network and a similarly robust wired network were required to enable high performance connectivity for guests and spectators. A specialist in Wi-Fi solutions, KNI designed and implemented an Aruba high density wireless network at the Waterfront to meet the client brief of supporting 6,000 simultaneous mobile devices. Marcel McAlinden, Business Solutions Manager at KNI, commented, “This high performance wireless network provides a captive portal, offering different types of user experience for visitors, depending upon their requirements. All guests are provided with 20Mbps of free Wi-Fi as standard and enhanced Wi-Fi services with faster

and guaranteed speeds up to 200Mbps provided for exhibitors, conference organisers and Waterfront staff.” The same user experience is provided across the wired network, with support for traditional devices such as PCs, servers and specialist AV connected equipment. This is all supported on a HP network of high density data switches installed in the numerous communication cabinets and interconnected using a minimum of 10GB connections back to the core. This wired and wireless guest network can easily flex and adopt to meet the changing capacity and access demands, depending on the event, which was another key demand of the customer brief. Within the existing Waterfront building, a bug bearer for visitors had been the poor GSM mobile telephone coverage within the building. Most conference visitors demand a good quality mobile telephone

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PROJECT PROFILE

signal and the Waterfront needed to ensure that this issue was resolved within the new conference and exhibition centre. In a first for Northern Ireland, the venue’s limited mobile network coverage issue was resolved with a Cobham DAS (Digital Antenna System) installation, which supports multiple mobile/cellular operators and the emergency services with fast, ubiquitous and uninterrupted 3G and 4G connectivity. This is achieved by creating a ‘mobile micro cell’ using various antenna and repeaters around the building, connected via fibre and copper cabling to direct connections from various mobile operators. At the heart of any IT infrastructure lies a fast, reliable and secure cabling foundation in order to deliver full network functionality. At the Waterfront, KNI installed over 1000 kilometres of copper, fibre and specialist AV cabling. This included 250 kilometres of Commscope Cat6A copper cabling, supporting network speeds of up to 10GB per cable, these are instrumental in supporting the Aruba High Density Wireless Access Points. In addition to the ICT requirements, these vast quantities of cable support numerous other IP devices including security cameras, door access readers, BMS panels, intruder alarms and VoIP telephones, all designed and installed by KNI. As one of Northern Ireland’s premier venues– and one that has in the past been visited by US presidents – security was critical. Glenn Townlsey, Senior Account Manager at KNI, commented, “A key brief from the customer, was their requirement for an integrated security solution which was based on ‘best in class’ and ‘open standards’. It had to support the ability to interlink various security technologies into a single management interface.” As a Platinum partner for Milestone Systems, KNI deployed a Milestone Video Management solution, supporting over 140 ACTi IPCCTV cameras around all areas of the building using the network infrastructure supplied and installed by KNI. These cameras are controlled and monitored by a new state-of-the-art security control room with numerous monitors displaying images on a video wall, with all images being stored on highly secure windows servers. Along with this, over 100 internal and external doors are equipped with an IP door access control panel. These panels are again

connected and powered by the HP data network on site, connecting back to the central door access server and integrating with the Milestone VMS server. The central control software allows the control staff to enable access, based on criteria such as identity, time of day, and area of the building, or they have the ability to lock down all or certain door sectors depending upon an event or security issue on site. Close integration with the video management software enables the control staff to immediately monitor visitors that have been denied door access. Using an alarm feature, the live images from the relevant cameras are automatically displayed on the control room monitors,

allowing these visitors to be more closely monitored as required. This innovative integrated IP solution was delivered and implemented on time and within budget, as part of a highly complex building and during an extremely busy construction project. “KNI really delivered for us,” commented John Griffin, Facilities Manager, Belfast Waterfront & Ulster Hall. “With an opening show scheduled, we had a challenging and immovable completion date which required the KNI team to draw on its experience and expertise with intelligent systems installation. The end result is just fantastic. It’s a huge asset for the people of Belfast and thanks to its future-proofed IPbased systems, will remain at the forefront of intelligent building design for years to come.”

Kedington NI Ltd, Unit 12c Harbour Court, Belfast, BT3 9HB T: (NI) 028 9045 0090 or (RoI) 048 9045 0090 www.kedington.com

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AV and Digital Signage Systems WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, BELFAST

AUDIO VISUAL SOLUTIONS WILL PLAY A CRITICAL ROLE IN THE SUCCESS OF THE WORLDCLASS EVENTS THAT THIS NEW VENUE WILL ATTRACT TO BELFAST…

MGA Communication is central to Waterfront’s success

he addition of the exhibition and conference facilities to the iconic Waterfront Hall has opened the door for world-class events to be hosted at the popular Belfast venue. While there has rightly been a focus on the size and flexibility of the new facilities, the inclusion of the high specification audiovisual system from MGA Communication Ltd will ensure that the new Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre will take the city’s offering to a whole new level. The bespoke AV system incorporates a ‘large site’ digital signage, multi-system transport wiring infrastructure wiring, fixed wiring induction loop systems as well as infra-red based audio broadcast systems for the hearing-impaired. The design package was completed in-house and installed by the expert team at MGA Communication to provide state-of-the-art technology that is also flexible. The new facilities at the Waterfront are capable of hosting conferences, meetings and exhibitions and include a major hall, minor hall, three multi-purpose breakout

rooms, two exterior terraces with stunning views over the River Lagan, and a dedicated riverside entrance and new reception area. These new facilities have been added to the current auditorium, studio and other meeting and breakout spaces whose AV systems were upgraded by MGA Communication in concert with similar systems deployed within the new building areas. “All the technology we provided for the Waterfront is integral to the success of every event, so we provided a high-end solution that caters to the exact needs of the venue,” explained Aaron McKeown, Project Director at MGA Communication. “The flexibility of the venue is one of its main selling points with rooms able to cater for different sizes, so we had to look into the possible uses of each room and tailor the systems to meet every potential outcome. “We don’t believe in providing a one-sizefits-all package but instead work closely with the client to find out what they require and then develop the package to meet

these needs. This project was a lot more challenging in this respect, but the initial feedback has been fantastic. “Now that the Waterfront is capable of welcoming exhibitions and conferences from across the world, we are delighted to have been able to play an integral part in that success.” MGA Communication’s work at the Waterfront was carried out at the same time as the company’s involvement with the new National Stadium at Windsor Park. “To be working on two of Belfast’s most iconic venues at the same time was special,” added Aaron. This fact once again highlights the expertise that MGA Communication consistently delivers on projects. The company provides communication solutions ranging from sound broadcast, IPTV, audio visual, and CCTV as well as access control and telephone systems. MGA Communication has been involved in some of Northern Ireland’s largest AV projects within hospitals, exhibition centres, schools, hotels and leisure facilities.

MGA Communication Ltd, 55 Antrim Road, Ballynahinch, BT24 8AN T: (NI) 028 9756 5614 or (RoI) 048 9756 5614 - E: enquiries@mgacom.co.uk www.mgacom.co.uk

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PROJECT PROFILE

Power Distribution & Cable Management WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, BELFAST

UNIQUE CABLE MANAGEMENT AND POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS TO EQUIP NEW EXTENSION OF ICONIC BELFAST WATERFRONT…

Core Electrical exhibits top-of-the-range solutions

elfast City Council – whose objective is to promote and establish Belfast as a world-class business destination – paid close attention to the quality of the construction of the new extension. The iconic building now offers facilities of 7,000m2 capable of hosting conferences, meetings and exhibitions for up to 5,000 delegates and is a top location for any business and entertainment events. Powering and cabling such a space requires specialised equipment capable of bearing heavy weights – for example for car exhibitions, forklift trucks being used to install display material, high attendance levels etc - as well as distributing enough power to supply large or multiple events. Core Electrical (NI) worked with electrical consultants Mott MacDonald, on behalf of Belfast City Council, and WYG, on behalf of M&E contractor, Harvey Group, on developing tailor-made, flexible, highquality systems featuring EAE’s underfloor and rising busbar systems as well as Cableduct’s floor boxes and in-screed trunking.

“We have previously worked with these two brands on many successful projects,” commented Adrian McGarrity, Sales Director of Core Electrical Distributors (NI). “The Cableduct floor boxes are made with strong base units, an adaptable size to fit with the floor type and customised features to match the final floor covering; they are robust and highly reliable products. “As for EAE, their busbar systems provided the perfect fit in several challenging jobs from office blocks to airports and including schools, thanks to their comprehensive power rating range and their unbeatable installation times.” Bespoke floor boxes, junction boxes and in-screed trunking from the Cableduct 700 series range were manufactured to meet the requirements. The Cableduct floor box is made of a trimless, stainless steel lid and frame (200x200mm) and modified to add the additional load strength – up to 10kN. Additional bespoke floor boxes were supplied to be used as access points on the top floors, also based on the look of the 700 series but with a bespoke lid and frame size

(300x150mm) and a cut-out base to allow access to services below. The EAE products selected for the project are the 630Amp rising aluminium busbar from the E-Line KO and the 160Amp underfloor copper busbar from the E-Line MK. Both models allow a high current carrying distribution that is capable of powering the conference complex. The vertical riser distributes electrical power in the premises providing a flexible and reliable power supply. The underfloor busbar trunking system distributes the power in cavity floors and supplies the communication services at floor levels. The result is a perfectly installed system that matches all the standards of a major leading conference and exhibition centre. Adrian added, “This is a prestigious project that gives a fantastic visibility to Core Electrical Northern Ireland.” Created only five years ago, the Northern Ireland company has followed the example of its sister company in the Republic of Ireland which is already a recognised leader in the electrical market.

Core Electrical, Northern Ireland - Unit 4 Duncrue Industrial Park, Duncrue Road, Belfast, BT3 9BP T: 028 9002 0066 - E: info@coreelectrical.com - www.coreelectrical.com Republic of Ireland - 17b Goldenbridge Industrial Estate, Tyrconnell Road, Inchicore, Dublin 8, D08 WD50 T: 01 4537033 - E: info@coreelectrical.ie - www.coreelectrical.ie

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Backup Power Equipment WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, BELFAST

WATERFRONT EXTENSION BENEFITS FROM RELIABLE BACKUP POWER SUPPLY PROTECTION THANKS TO CONTINU…

Peace of mind with Backup Power solutions from Continu

hen it came to the critical supply to protect sensitive IT equipment.” component of backup power to Following detailed site surveys and design protect the IT infrastructure at work, the MGE Galaxy 60kVA UPS was the new Waterfront Hall extension, Continu selected to provide critical backup power was the ‘go to’ company for specifying the to the new and existing infrastructure equipment for this prestigious project. housed within the Waterfront complex. “Backup power has two main functions, The MGE Galaxy 5500 is the latest in and the second function is arguably more advanced power management systems, important,” said Tom Hall, Managing engineered to increase performance and Director at Continu. “Approximately 80% reliability. On-line technology fully isolates of electrical problems are due and protects against all to in-building phenomena, power quality disturbances such as lifts, air conditioners, in even the most demanding copiers, florescent lighting environments. High efficiency and so on. Uninterruptible in double conversion or ECO Power Supply (UPS) is installed mode saves valuable energy between critical loads and costs, and a comprehensive mains supply. range of options enables the “Utility companies are not MGE Galaxy 5500 to be highly committed to provide clean, effective in any application. uninterrupted power. An “Energy efficiency is an interface is required, and important consideration to these have two functions - to any modern organization, provide short-term emergency not least the Waterfront Hall power in the event of a Conference and Exhibition complete mains power failure facility, now equipped with and to protect the load from a 2,000 seat auditorium, power quality problems, enabling the attraction of including spikes, voltage large international events,” dips and fluctuations, thus said Tom. Tom Hall, Managing Director at Continu. providing a clean and stable Continu is the sole sales and

service partner to APC/MGE by Schneider Electric in Northern Ireland and has unique access to the MGE/APC range of products (a leading choice of IT professionals). The engineers undergo specialist training in France and Denmark with the manufacturers, ensuring customers have professional backup power support and access to original spare parts when required. Having worked collaboratively on several large projects over the years, Continu has developed a long-standing working relationship with the M&E Contractor on the project, Harvey Group, which is based on trust, reliability and supply of quality products and unrivalled service support. “The project required careful co-ordination of building and electrical works, and our UPS engineers successfully commissioned the backup power equipment to the new Waterfront Hall on January 22, 2016,” said Tom. “Ultimately, a venue such as the prestigious Waterfront Hall, where downtime is not an option, now has complete peace of mind that IT systems will be kept up and running, with Continu engineers locally available 365/24/7.”

Continu Ltd, 9 Harbour Court, Heron Road, Belfast BT3 9HB T: (NI) 028 9045 4900 or (RoI) 048 9045 4900 – E: info@continu-ups.com www.continu-ups.com @ContinuUPS ContinuLtd

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PROJECT PROFILE

Power Distribution and Lighting WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, BELFAST

THANKS TO AN EXPANDED PRODUCT RANGE, EATON IS ABLE TO OFFER BOTH LIGHTING AND POWER DISTRIBUTIONS SOLUTIONS…

The One Eaton approach is the perfect solution

he ‘One Eaton’ approach was utilised to full effect at the new Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre, with the company delivering both lighting and power solutions for the prestigious venue. As the world leader in diversified power management solutions, Eaton is able to provide a complete portfolio of electrical power protection, distribution and monitoring technologies. At the Waterfront, Eaton supplied Varsity LED lighting for use in the lift shafts and also provided a XIRIA Vacuum SF6-free ring main unit and two 2MVA cast resin transformers as part of a medium voltage equipment package. David Moore, Northern Ireland Account Manager, said, “Since Eaton acquired Cooper Lighting and Safety in 2012, we have been able to expand our product portfolio, giving us more of an opportunity to provide a complete package of power and lighting. “We are delighted to have been able to demonstrate this on such a prestigious project such as the extension to the Waterfront Hall. We worked closely with consultants, WYG, to ensure the MV solution met the specific needs of the project, and again we demonstrated our expertise in this area.”

The Waterfront project is the perfect example of the One Eaton philosophy that is delivering a range of advantages to customers. Eaton has proven capabilities in utility power distribution, smart grid, lighting, lighting controls, wiring devices and safety solutions, combined this with power distribution and energy services. All this comes with a local service made up of experts in Northern Ireland who are backed up with technical support in the company’s UK head office. As you would expect from a company the size of Eaton, all products are designed to meet the latest industry standards and manufactured to the highest levels of quality. But this is further enhanced by a company ethos that extends beyond the initial purchase of the products themselves. Eaton offers a fully professional presales and post-sales support function that includes technical support, contract management, BIM/Revit models, CAD and a full range of delivery, installation and life-cycle management services. David added, “Through the ‘One Eaton’ approach we can offer customers with a wide range of different products all under the one brand that you can trust.”

Complete portfolio Eaton provides a complete portfolio of electrical power protection, distribution and monitoring technologies, including: • Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) from the smallest home office to the largest hyperscale datacentre applications. • Intelligent software that allows the monitoring and control of Eaton hardware, plus management of IT virtual infrastructure. • In-rack power distribution with options for standard, metered, monitored and managed technology. • Medium voltage (1kV to 35kV) and low voltage (≤1kV) MCC, power distribution and switching solutions through to final distribution equipment. • Engineering services, including site assembly and pre-commissioning, maintenance contracts and power system studies. • Lighting and control systems for commercial and residential environments. • Fire and security detection and alerting systems.

Eaton Electric Ltd T: David Moore on 07712 488 310 or Chris Orr on 07772 605 463 www.uk.eaton.com

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LIGHTING

TIMEGUARD INTRODUCES THE REVOLUTIONARY AUTOMATIC SWITCH LOAD CONTROLLER TO GET RID OF GLOW AND FLICKER…

Use smart wall switches with LED and CFL lamps with confidence

oupled with smart switches and home automation systems, LED has revolutionised the lighting industry, in particular when it comes to energy saving. However, you only have to look on the internet forums to see electricians desperately trying to find an answer to the problem of replacing a customer’s old incandescent lamp with a new energysaving LED lamp only to find that it will not switch off. Or, the customer asked for an automatic light switch (PIR, timed, delay, or remote control etc) to be fitted to their state-of-the-art LED lighting installation, only to find the automatic switch has stopped working after a week.

WHAT’S CAUSING THE PROBLEMS? The main reason we all want to use LED lighting is to save energy. LED lamps use a fraction of the power of incandescent or halogen so, quite logically, they only need a fraction of the power for them to illuminate. Any small voltage/current within the circuit will, therefore, cause the LED lamps to glow or flash – just the sort of current that is always present in the case of most two-wire automatic switches offering PIR switching, timing, delay, photocell or remote control. Most of these automatic switches are designed to operate as a replacement for a standard two-wire light switch where there is normally no neutral connection available at the switch. On the face of it, that’s good news and an easy install for you but, for these switches to function, a small amount of power is drawn down

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through the switched live connection to operate the switch whilst in standby. That was never a problem for incandescent or halogen because the current was too small to have any effect, but it has emerged as a big problem with LED lighting. Another common problem arises when LEDs are switched on - a momentary power surge is created due to the circuitry needed to power the actual LED chips. Commonly known as an inrush current, this can be enough to damage many switches and equipment controlling them.

WHAT’S THE SOLUTION? Changing to a different LED lamp manufacturer is the most commonly shared answer, but that rarely works. Timeguard has now developed a patented device that creates an electrical environment for automatic switches and LED lamps to operate in harmony, without having to modify the automatic switch or LED lamp by diverting the current from the LED or CFL lamp. This new device is called the Timeguard ZV900 Automatic Switch Load Controller: it is small, inexpensive, easy to install, slips neatly through a standard 50mm ceiling aperture and you only need one per switching circuit. As it will work with just about any make of smart switch and LED or CFL lamps, you can go out and fix existing

customer problems at a stroke. The Timeguard ZV900 is specifically designed to alleviate issues with switching LEDs and CFL lamps without the need for extensive extra wiring, and in most cases no extra wiring at all. T: (NI) 020 8452 1112 or (RoI) 0044 20 8452 1112 E: sales@timeguard.com W: www.timeguard.com

At a glance... Features of the Timeguard ZV900 include: • Eliminating LED and CFL glow and flicker in two- wire automatic light switches (ie timed, PIR, delay/ timelag, security, audio and photocell automatic switches • Built-in surge and current inrush suppression • Boosts 99% of automatic switches LED switching capabilities to 200W • Under 1W power consumption • No additional cabling to the switch required • Fits in the ceiling through a 50mm hole • Only 1 x ZV900 needed per switching circuit up to 200W LED/CFL.

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ONLINE CERTIFICATION

MORE THAN ONE MILLION CERTIFICATES HAVE NOW BEEN PROCESSED VIA NICEIC’S ONLINE CERTIFICATION SYSTEM…

One million reasons to get online

ICEIC’s online certification system is now used by more than 15 000 unique customers. More contractors are choosing to use the system each day because of the additional benefits it brings to their business. The cloud based system means contractors do not need to install any software. There is also no expensive update costs as with other electronic certificate systems. They can simply log in to the portal with their NICEIC details to easily fill out all forms. “Contractors are now increasingly using a laptop, smart phone or tablet computer in their everyday work and we want to ensure they have access to the latest developments out there to make certification as easy as possible,” commented NICEIC’s Head of Sales, Paul Elcock. “Contractors have said it has transformed the way they work simply because of the convenience it offers. “Forms can be completed either on-site or

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back in the office, and can be emailed or printed off for clients and personal record-keeping. It means paperwork doesn’t have to be a task done at the end of a hard working day.” Since its launch NICEIC have worked continuously to improve and enhance the service for its customers, adding new updates daily. There is now an offline App for firms working in more remote areas that do not have internet access. In addition contractors can now access a range of different certificates including Fire Alarm and Emergency Lighting. They can also add company logos at the simple press of a button for the complete professional look. NICEIC is also busy working on an android version of the app which is currently only available to iPad users. The new android version is expected to launch in the next few months. W: www.niceic.com

“The cloud based system means contractors do not need to install any software. There is also no expensive update costs as with other electronic certificate systems.”

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NEW ENERGY STANDARD

SET TO BECOME THE NORM WHEN IT COMES TO RETROFITS, CONTRACTORS ARE BEING URGED TO GET TO GRIPS WITH THE NEW SR 54 CODE OF PRACTICE…

Setting the standard

new national code of practice on energy efficiency home renovations that will affect electricians was launched at the Energy Show, held recently in the RDS, Dublin. The combined effort of NSAI, SEAI, Department of Environment, Community and Local Government and the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, SR 54 Code of Practice is a free technical guide for all contractors involved in home renovations. It is now a requirement when tendering for state retrofit schemes, such as local authority upgrades or SEAI’s Better Energy Homes. With over €800million worth of renovations carried out in over 35,000 homes in Ireland since 2013, NSAI (National Standard Authority of Ireland) wants to make sure that all contractors aren’t just aware of the document but that they use it, so that best practice is followed in all construction projects. With so many low-energy retrofit measures new to the market, the technical guide was developed to provide guidance to contractors including architects, engineers and insulation installers. According to NSAI, the main purpose of the standard is to provide technical guidance on the design and installation of retrofit measures to improve energy efficiency while: • Maintaining the fire safety performance of dwellings • Ensuring structural integrity and acoustic performance • Maintaining healthy internal environments • Controlling the movement of moisture.

ENERGY PERFORMANCE The standard very much focuses on the transfer/movement of heat, moisture and air through the dwelling and their relationship with the occupants. The control

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Hugh Wallace, Architect & Judge on RTE’s Home of the Year, Maurice Buckley, CEO, NSAI and Sean Armstrong, Department of Environment, Community and Local Government, launch the new SR 54 Code of Practice.

and management of these factors is essential in order to achieve adequate occupant comfort, good overall energy performance and to prevent building problems. Chief Executive of NSAI, Maurice Buckley hopes the standard soon becomes the rule for anyone involved in the retrofit renovation of homes. “It’s difficult for any contractor to be an expert in all of the complex areas of retrofit renovations, as well as to be able to recognise all the pitfalls,” said Maurice. “Developed with the Irish climate in mind, SR 54 Code of Practice acts as a checklist, providing technical best practice guidance on how each stage of the renovation should be completed, as well as highlighting potential obstacles to avoid.” “For example, modern external insulation systems can save the home-owner thousands of Euros in heating bills, as well as painting and decorating. The SR 54 Code of Practice has detailed advice and considerations, with helpful diagrams to assist the contractor when carrying out such work.

“The SR 54 Code of Practice provides great assistance and is very easy to use.”

Architect, Bill Scott specialises in design and construction for low energy. He is one of the first practitioners in the country to use the standard and finds that the SR 54 Code of Practice provides great assistance and is very easy to use. “It’s essential that all practitioners have a best-practice technical guide to refer to, especially if engaged in an area of work that’s new or unfamiliar to them,” he said. “Relying on intuition is unacceptable when it comes to the serious task of renovating a person’s home. SR 54 Code of Practice is a very comprehensive document, with case study examples, illustrations and, most importantly, a checklist of solid facts as to what you should do and what to look out for.” NSAI (National Standards Authority of Ireland) is encouraging all designers and contractors involved in the renovation of houses to download a copy of SR 54 Code of Practice for free from its website. T: (RoI) 01 807 3800 or (NI) 00353 1 807 3800 E: info@nsai.ie W: www.nsai.ie

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PRODUCT NEWS

SCOLMORE GROWS ITS OFFERING WITH TWO EXCITING NEW PRODUCTS TO MAKE LIFE EASIER FOR ELECTRICAL WORKERS…

Star studded line-up

lways looking for innovative solutions that save installers time and money, Scolmore has introduced StudBox, a universal first-fix electrical back-box system for dry lining applications which will significantly reduce installation time. Part of the CLICK Essentials range, StudBox replaces the time-consuming and tedious practice of installing metal back boxes into stud walls attached to timber noggins, and will typically reduce the installation time down from five minutes to 30 seconds. Plasterboard marking points on the corners of each StudBox cavity provide the exact position to cut out without the need for measuring. There are three products within the range – 1 Gang (120mm-600mm centres), 2 Gang (130mm-600mm centres) and the Universal StudBox.

The Universal StudBox (SB6IN1) has integrally moulded mounting flanges so that it can be hung between the faces of timber studs with centres between 380 and 450mm in a matter of seconds. The overall length of the box is 450mm, so, there is no need to measure height from the floor on stud work. With the universal StudBox marked at height the first screw is inserted and an integral spirit level allows for exact horizontal alignment -

without the need for a separate tool - ready for the second screw to go in. The universal StudBox has one twin and two single cavity boxes, all 35mm deep, which gives six possible mounting combinations, and will cover most installation requirements. If just a single or twin box is needed, then it’s simply a case of cutting the studs off the box cavity not being used and boarding over them.

Scolmore expands its new media range

colmore’s New Media range encompasses a wide variety of media and power modules, and has been developed to provide designers and installers with a host of solutions for an assortment of media cabling requirements. Now, the range has been expanded with four new, individual modules which will further enhance the flexibility of the company’s growing New Media offer. A VGA module with fly-lead, Triple RCA module, USB throughput module with fly-lead and a 3.5mm audio jack module with fly-lead have been added to the comprehensive module collection. The clip-fit New Media modules are simple to install in their blank mounting plates and they are each available in either a black or white finish to complement any installation. With an extensive collection to choose from, Scolmore’s New Media plates and modules range brings practical and

aesthetic solutions to the array of media and power cabling requirements that we are faced with in today’s technology-driven work and home environments. Designed to provide contractors with the ultimate in flexibility and ease of installation, the new media plates are available in a variety of

configurations and colour finishes - from the 1 Gang plate with single aperture, right through to the 12 and 18 module plates. With a comprehensive range of modules available, it makes it easy for contractors to devise and install customised switching solutions on site.

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

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CABLES

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE WITH DRAKA’S CONTINUING PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT SESSIONS…

Lunch and learning with Draka

unchtime Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions run by cables and systems specialist, Draka are proving to be a huge success with mechanical and electrical consulting engineers. Precision Cables is a key distribution partner for Draka UC Connect, and Precision’s Business Development Manager, Geoff Byrne is a big fan of CPD. As a result, Geoff has initiated a series of Draka-hosted CPD sessions as a means of raising awareness of the capability and quality of Draka’s UC Connect cabling solutions. Last year, CPD sessions arranged by Geoff had more attendees than the sessions arranged by any other individual, an achievement which Draka recognised by rewarding Geoff for his efforts. Part of the Prysmian Group, the world’s leading cable manufacturer, Draka currently provides three ‘Lunch & Learn’ CPD sessions covering a diverse range of topics developed to educate and inform professional engineers in the UK and Ireland. Currently available topics are: • 10Gb copper structured cabling (shielded and unshielded) • A guide to structured cabling • Remote powering (a guide to PoE) The CPDs are presented by Draka’s technical experts, who have an extensive knowledge of the subject areas and the capability to field technical questions and offer practical advice at the question and answer session that concludes each presentation. The certified CPDs provide an informative way for engineers and technologists working in the M&E sector to spend a

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Geoff Byrne, Business Development Manager, Precision Cables (left), with Tony Vose, MMS Account Manager, Draka.

“Draka has committed to developing a further 12 presentations to keep consultants informed of the latest technical developments in the communications cabling sector.” lunch-time. Draka’s CPDs are particularly useful for those engineers who are members of professional institutions which have a requirement for members to spend a minimum number of hours a year attending educational events to help further their technical knowledge. USEFUL TOOL CPD sessions are also popular with the hosting businesses because they provide a structured, practical approach to developing skills and knowledge that is invaluable in helping the organisation maintain a sustainable, competitive advantage. Continuing education of the

workforce can also be a useful tool to help retain staff. The ‘Lunch and Learn’ sessions have been so successful that this year Draka has committed to developing a further 12 presentations to keep consultants informed of the latest technical developments in the communications cabling sector. CPD presentations and technical seminars can be booked through any UC Connect distribution partner or by contacting your local Draka representative. T: (RoI) 042 9331 436 or (NI) 00353 42 9331 436 E: info@precisioncables.ie W: www.precisioncables.ie

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JOB MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

MOBILE SOLUTION IS HELPING IMPROVE THE OVERALL SERVICE ON OFFER AND ENHANCING EFFICIENCY LEVELS…

WorkPal workflow management solution powers TES NI

esponsible for power conservation, distribution, water treatment and wastewater treatment throughout the UK, TES NI is now relying on WorkPal’s mobile workflow management solution to help the company manage its vital operations across the UK. TES NI’s IT Manager, Mark Cleary, explained why they trust and rely on the system. “Before WorkPal, assigning work was a difficult task. It was hard to know the location of our staff and who was best suited to carry out a work order,” he said. “This was particularly difficult with emergency response jobs. “Since implementing WorkPal, our head office team can now see exactly where our mobile staff are located and what they are doing. This visibility saves valuable time and gets our engineers to jobs quicker. “It also allows for all of our jobs to be fully transparent and traceable, with both the client and our office receiving paperwork in PDF format for faster invoicing. With WorkPal, this now happens automatically, which is a great help, as all the rates are built into the system.”

WORKPAL SOLUTION The WorkPal solution now enables TES NI to quickly send job details to an engineer’s mobile app, which they use on-site to complete documentation, take pictures, capture clients’ signatures and more. Once a job is completed, all the information is automatically synced back to the office. Invoices are generated, service histories are created and recurring maintenance is automatically scheduled.

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Mark said, “We found working with the WorkPal team seamless when setting up our new system. The customer care before and after signing the contract has been excellent, which is very reassuring when investing in this type of software.” He added, “One of the biggest benefits we have noticed is our ability to respond faster to emergency jobs. Being able to see where all the engineers are and what they are working on lets our office team find the closest suitable engineer. “Before WorkPal, this process took a considerable amount of time. Now, it’s a matter of seconds. Our clients are experiencing a much better service and we are more competitive as a result. Everything is in real time, no information is lost, and everything is traceable with a tracking history.”

ENHANCED BUSINESS CAPABILITIES “Our customers are now getting a better insight into what work is being done and when. The app automatically notifies our customers when an engineer is on route, when they arrive and when the job is complete. Health and safety is also very important to us as a company so it’s great that WorkPal prompts our engineers to fill out risk assessments before every job. “By utilising the app, the GPS tracking and the storage of all paperwork automatically, and with the addition of simplified invoicing, we are now anticipating substantial cost savings over the next 12 months,” Mark explained. The biggest compliment you can give a service is a recommendation and Mark’s

response to whether he would advise others to use WorkPal was pretty clear. “Absolutely! We have already seen the commercial benefits of implementing WorkPal across our operations and have referred a number of our suppliers and customers to the WorkPal team. “The app has a focused number of features that make managing mobile workers much more efficient and will no doubt enhance our ability to manage our growing workforce and client base more effectively in years to come.” T: (NI) 028 9096 0366 or (RoI) 048 9096 0366 E: info@barclaycomms.com W: www.barclaycomms.com

What is WorkPal? U WorkPal is an end-to-end job

management system developed by Barclay Communications in Belfast. With over 18 years’ experience in business communications, the team Barclay Communications are local experts in business communications including mobile, landline, IT, web design and software development. WorkPal is the company’s flagship solution for mobile workflow management, reporting, tracking and invoicing.

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TOOLS AND TESTING

KLAUKE LAUNCHES NEW WIDE-RANGE BOOTLACE FERRULE CRIMPING TOOL…

Simple solution from Klauke

ith the K 30/6 K, Klauke has introduced a neat solution for crimping insulated and non-insulated bootlace ferrules from 0.08 – 16mm2 onto the market. Normally to cover this range of wire sizes, an installer would typically require at least three different tools. Now with just a single tool, the installer can keep the weight and cost of his tool bag to a minimum. The clever mechanism has a smooth ratchet control which moves six precise jaws, producing a neat hexagonal crimped result. This has the benefit of ensuring the termination remains as round as possible, fitting directly into the equipment without any need for ‘rounding’ square corners. To ensure the ferrule is always located exactly in the middle of the jaws, a clever positioner has been added to keep the ferrules centred. This guide can be relocated on the reverse side for left-handed users. Under the part number K306K, it can handle both single and double-entry ferrules and possesses the quality you would expect from a German-made product. It features non-slip handles and a name tag field inside the handle to identify it’s yours.

The launch of the K 30/6 K is part of a wide range of impressive products developed by the experts at Klauke. The new product is available from all branches of Demesne Electrical Sales. For more information or for a demonstration, contact Klauke. T: (NI) 01986 891 519 or (RoI) 0044 1986 891 519 E: sales@Klauke.textron.com W: www.klauke.com

“The clever mechanism has a smooth ratchet control which moves six precise jaws, producing a neat hexagonal crimped result.”

AVAILABLE AT

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HEATERS

THE EHC ECOSAVE DYNAMIC ELECTRIC HEATER BENEFITS FROM A PRECISE DIGITAL THERMOSTAT AND ALLOWS THE USER TO PROGRAMME THE UNIT TO OPERATE AT SPECIFIC TIMES…

Ecosave - the smart choice for electric heaters

he Electric Heating Company’s Ecosave Dynamic Heater is designed to meet the heating demands of the modern home, with designer styling to blend with any décor and the latest innovations to enhance heating comfort and lower energy usage. Suitable as a heating solution for apartments, domestic dwellings, holiday homes and offices, the heating elements and high performance heating oil are housed within the sturdy aluminium body of the heater. Due to the modular construction and air flow outlets at the top of the heater, the Ecosave benefits from fast heat-up times and provides an even surface temperature with optimum convection through all heating cycles. For ease of operation, the easy-to-use digital programmable thermostat is located at the top of the heater. It will accurately control both time and temperature, is fully programmable 24/7 and offers comfort,

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economy, frost protection and on/ off settings. To convert your Ecosave heater to an intelligent appliance that can be controlled anywhere, anytime you can install the EHC SmartHome Wi-Fi kit, ideal for hotels, student accommodation and properties for let, as all the heaters can be fully controlled remotely. The cost of four Ecosave Heaters for a typical one-bedroom apartment is £890+VAT. Wi-Fi kit is available at an extra cost. EHC will be exhibiting at the Plumbex Trade event in Dublin on May 25 and 26,

and at PPHL Expo in Belfast on September 7 and 8. T: (NI) 01698 820533 or (RoI) 0044 1698 820533 E: info@electric-heatingcompany.co.uk W: www.electric-heatingcompany.co.uk

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2016

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PENSIONS

AWARD-WINNING UK PENSION PROVIDER MAKES AUTO ENROLMENT SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE…

Reach for the BlueSky for pension provision

lueSky Pensions UK, the awardwinning innovators, is a leading provider of highly governed workplace pensions and is at the forefront of pension provision in the UK. The BlueSky Pension Scheme, a nonprofit arrangement, is one of the largest multi-employer Mastertrusts in the UK and has been in operation for nearly 30 years. It offers free access to any employer, with additional competitively priced support available. The BlueSky Pension Scheme received the Pension Scheme Innovation Award early in 2015 in recognition of adding value and originality to the pensions industry and for displaying excellence and a true commitment to the needs of its members. Employers can meet their auto-enrolment needs and give their employees a high quality employment benefit by nominating the award-winning BlueSky Pension Scheme as their workplace pension scheme. All employers in the UK must comply with Auto Enrolment legislation and have been assigned a ‘Staging Date’. Further

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information on ‘Staging Dates’ can be found in the Auto Enrolment section of the BlueSky website. What employers need to do • Nominate a contact • Know your staging date • Prepare a plan • Review pension arrangements • Check process and software • Know your workforce • Communicate with staff • Make a declaration of Compliance with the Pensions Regulator. The secret to successful compliance is preparation and keeping the process simple. • Assess payroll processes • Assess existing pension arrangements • Commence investigations 6 months before your staging date. Auto Enrolment Solution In addition, BlueSky offers the RealTime Auto Enrolment Data and Communications package for employers to assess their workforce and satisfy Auto

Enrolment responsibilities effectively. BlueSky recently launched the Crystal Trust, the UK’s first trust-based, managed flexible drawdown plan and is open to any employer, pension scheme or individual. At retirement, a transfer of pension rights into the Crystal Trust will enable individuals to receive a tax-free lump sum and pension income. In the new world of flexible savings which includes pension changes, there is more control and freedom of choice available through Crystal, where historically, individuals had to make a single irreversible decision and buy an annuity. There are no set-up fees or minimum terms when joining Crystal, with investment and drawdown options starting at just 0.75% per annum.

Further details can be found by visiting www.crystaldrawdown.uk. For further information on how BlueSky can help your business, visit www.blueskypensions.uk or contact info@blueskypensions.uk.

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NEW PRODUCTS

AURORA INTRODUCES THE MPRO™

NEW SURFACE-MOUNTED CONTROLS FOR SIMPLY SAVING ENERGY

n Aurora has launched the world’s most advanced integrated, fire-rated downlight. Designed with versatility, safety and performance in mind, the mPro’s best in-class features include IP65 in fixed and adjustable, and a unique detachable design for shallow ceiling voids. The mPro’s LED chroic™ lens delivers halogen-like light distribution, maximising energy output while minimising energy consumption. The mPro’s NanoDrive™ technology features a miniaturised integrated driver which is detachable from the light source to allow for better heat dissipation leading to longevity, even under loose fill insulation material. T: Des Duignan, Director for Ireland, (RoI) 01 696 8028 or (NI) 00353 1 696 8028 W: www.auroralighting.com

n Danlers has launched a new range of hard-wired round PIR occupancy switches in a choice of different switching and switch/dim options. Product features include: • Versions for both presence detection and absence detection • Can be mounted directly to a ceiling or onto a range of different mounting boxes • Adjustable time lag settings • Adjustable photocell 30-1000 lux and inactive mode • Comes with a snap fit mounting plate – easy to install • All products are backed with a five-year warranty and are made in the UK. T: (NI) 01249 443377 or (RoI) 0044 1249 443377 E: sales@danlers.co.uk W: www.danlers.co.uk

MARTINDALE FLEX REACHES THE PARTS OTHER METERS CAN’T!

EVEN MORE ROOM FOR MANOEUVRE!

n When a standard clamp meter just won’t fit, Martindale Electric, leaders in electrical safety, has the solution with its new range of True RMS flexible current meters. Ideal for measuring conductors of different shapes and sizes including fuse holders, the latest series of meters from Martindale Electric includes the CM95 for high resolution measurement down to 1mA and the CM100 for measuring high current up to 3000A. W: www.martindale-electric.co.uk

n Space limitations mean that panel builders and switchgear manufacturers have to accommodate more and more M&E components in enclosures. Now, a smart new enclosure accessory from Rittal can provide far greater scope for the interior configuration of compact enclosures. The interior installation rail from Rittal can be easily mounted to the side, floor or roof areas of the AE compact enclosure, without any need for additional drilling through the enclosure panels. This neat solution saves time and preserves the enclosure’s protection category. W: www.rittal.co.uk or www.friedhelm-loh-group.com, or on twitter @rittal_ltd

VENTURE PUBLISHES NEW VLED CATALOGUE n Venture Lighting Europe has released a new catalogue (available for download), covering its complete collection of highly efficient VLED products, The 48-page colour catalogue displays the company’s wide range of VLED luminaires, including the smart Integrated Driver Technology (IDT) range, industrial high and low bays, panels, spotlights and downlights, and its retrofit and street lighting solutions. T: (NI) 01923-692600 or (RoI) 0044 1923-692600 E: info@venturelighting.co.uk W: www.venturelightingeurope.com

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

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NORTHERN IRELAND ELECTRICAL AWARDS 2013 BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE WHOLESALER OF THE YEAR

• Luton Branch: +44 (0)1582 848402

Opening Hours: Mon-Thurs 7.30am - 5.30pm Fri 7.30am - 4.30pm - Sat 9.00am - 12 noon

www.demesne.ie

www.electricalwholesaleexpress.co.uk

www.elecmagazine.com

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

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DIRECTORY DIRECTORY

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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

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Mullingar Branch

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

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

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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 Northern Ireland’s Leading Independent Electrical Wholesaler

THE

LIGHTING

SHOWROOM

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

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

www.mullingarelectrical.com Your local electrical wholesaler

SUPPLIERS OF: PHILIPS • MK • CED • DIMPLEX • GE • HKC • UTC Fire & Security • ABB • ACT • DRAKA HEAD OFFICE Unit 46 Rosemount Business Park, Ballycoolin, Dublin 11, D11 K26W T: +353 (0)1-2541900 - F: +353 (0)1-2541925 new@new.ie BRAY BRANCH Unit 48 Beechwood Close, Boghall Road, Bray Co Wicklow, A98 K5D4 T: +353 (0)1 2453970 - F: +353 (0)1 2116200

MANUFACTURER OF LED LIGHTING

GREENER, BRIGHTER... BETTER!

LED LIGHTING

FLOODLIGHTS, GU10’S, PANELS, HIGHBAYS, LAMPS www.polarisled.com 86-88 Dargan Crescent, Belfast. T: 028 9039 6945 - F: 0191 4999626 E: info@polarisled.com

CORK BRANCH Unit 16/17, Northlink Bus Park, Old Mallow Road, Cork, T23 VY28 T: +353 (0)21-2432990 - F: +353 (0)21-4396966 NAAS BRANCH Unit B4 M7 Business Park, Newhall, Naas, Co. Kildare, W91 F762 T: +353 (0)45-895896 - F: +353 (0)45-895898 BALLYMOUNT BRANCH Unit 3B Sunbury Ind. Est. Ballymount Road, Lower Walkinstown, Dublin 12, D12 FY06 T: +353 (0)1-4567100 - F: +353 (0)1-4566366 MARINO BRANCH 68 Malahide Road, Marino, Dublin, D03 CY67 T: +353 (0)1-5631900 - F: +353 (0)1 8054834

www.new.ie

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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

DIRECTORY

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 CONTACT JANICE UPRICHARD T: (NI) 028 9261 2990 T: (RoI) 01 696 8319 or email janice@kmpltd.co.uk

www.elecmagazine.com

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

EDMUNDSON ELECTRICAL 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 ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT GREENTECH 58 Boucher Place Belfast BT12 6HT T: 44 (0)28 9066 1177 E: belfast.244@eel.co.uk

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

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WALTER S. MERCER

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