WCI Vol9 No-6 Sep-Oct 2020 by Tulip 3P Media Private Limited

CABLING & ENERGY SOLUTIONS

LS Cable India:

Providing Reliable Cabling and Smarter Energy Solutions “Abiding by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Vocal for Local’ initiatives, LS Cable India stands committed to the motto with enhanced capabilities in the businesses of wire harnessing, RF jumpers, power cable assembly units and fibre optic assembly units” — Mr. Hyun Ho Park

Mr. Hyun Ho Park, Managing Director, LS Cable India Pvt. Ltd.

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Sep-Oct, 2020

CABLING & ENERGY SOLUTIONS

In an exclusive interview given to Wire & Cable India, Mr. Hyun Ho Park, Managing Director, LS Cable India Pvt. Ltd., takes us through company’s business operations, the future vision, product range and technological capabilities of the company. As the world faces an unprecedented crisis in the form of the COVID-19 pandemic, he also shares the strategies the company has devised to sustain and thrive well in the pandemic.

Wire & Cable India: Can you tell us a little about LS Cable India and the experience so far? Hyun Ho Park: Since 1962, LS Cable has revolutionized the global cable market with its highly innovative and efficient product line that connects the globe through power and telecommunication technologies. As a consequence, we have earned the trust of customers as our manufacturing technologies and product quality is appreciated around the world. Six decades and counting, LS Cable & System has been manufacturing high-quality cables and accessories for different industries around the world. Being amongst the world’s top cable manufacturers across the globe with presence across 27 countries, LS Cable is connecting the whole world seamlessly with power and communications technology.

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As the whole world is driven by network and energy, LS Cable has become a complete solution provider to fulfilling the requirements of industries associated with power and telecom. We see it as our primary goal to create a connected world to develop a brighter future. To accomplish this mission, LS Cable India Pvt. Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of LS Cable & System Ltd. (South Korea), was established in September 2007. The Company has a 40 acre state-of-the-art facility located at Bawal Growth Centre in Haryana.

WCI: What is the vision of LS Cable India for the future? HHP: To meet the expectations of our stakeholders and achieve sustainable growth under changing market conditions, we are preparing for the coming decade by announcing our new ‘Vision 2030-The World’s Best Cable Solution Provider’. This new vision reflects our aspiration to become a global leader and the commitment to innovation in providing differentiated value to our customers. To achieve this vision, we are constantly working to increase our presence by focusing on promising markets and establishing a global management system. Along with strengthening our expertise in cables, we will soon

expand our operations into the areas of systems and solutions. In addition, we are working on enhancing competitiveness by establishing a digital-based business management system and a proactive and autonomous working atmosphere. Under this vision, we will not only focus on financial growth but also on fulfilling our social responsibilities along with better innovation. In line with this, we are constantly striving to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to take part in the global climate change initiative. Communication with local communities and cooperation with suppliers is being promoted to ensure mutual growth. In addition, we will continue our efforts at safety accident prevention, ethical management, and compliance with fair business transactions.

WCI: Give us an idea of the product range and technological capabilities of your company while also describing certain features of the array of products which give it a competitive edge in the market? HHP: We manufacture power cables ranging from 1.1 kV to 400 kV and RF cables for telecom infrastructures and also provide turnkey solutions in design, erection, installation, and other EPC areas in power and 4G/5G solutions in power and telecom segments. We strictly abide by the global standards maintained by the

Sep-Oct, 2020

CABLING & ENERGY SOLUTIONS parent company and the products are manufactured in accordance with the quality standards of LS Cable & System, Korea. Our various power products include extra-high voltage cables, medium and low voltage cables, and OPGW (Optical Fibre Overhead Ground Wire). As the demand for power has been increasing and power transmission requires higher capacity, super-high voltage underground power cables are necessary to ensure reliability and safety of power transmission as well as a more pleasant urban appearance. XLPE insulation cables are becoming increasingly popular since they are easy to handle. Our power products are excellent for applications requiring intensive heat resistance. It is categorized as flame retardant, heat-resistant, or environmentalfriendly depending on its features. Further, optical fibre is added to the features of overhead power transmission lines. It protects power transmission lines from lightning strikes and power surges when power transmission lines fail, and also allows the addition of communication features. Within the range of telecom solutions, we provide RF cables and 4G/5G solutions. The RF cable is a transmission line through which highfrequency signals are transmitted between transmission devices at BTS for mobile communications and antenna. This cable is a high-quality transmission medium due to reliability

We have recently introduced building wire products to meet the needs of residential and commercial wire markets. We plan to expand further into retail and export markets.

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over wideband and is categorized as feeder lines for signal transmission and leakage RF cables for signal radiation. Our 4G/5G solutions support most of the operatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passive requirements at the site.

WCI: Give us an overview of the markets you currently have a presence in. How do you plan to expand your reach in the market in the near future? HHP: Power: We supply our products to almost all major transmission and distribution utilities in India. In addition, we have recently introduced

We are currently the only manufacturer in India for RF cable products that are used in telecom base station infrastructures. building wire products to meet the needs of residential and commercial wire markets. We plan to expand further into retail and export markets. Telecom: We are currently the only manufacturer in India for RF cable products that are used in telecom base station infrastructures. We are the preferred partners to all leading telecom operators for their passive connectivity solutions. Also, we have recently set up a new facility for our assembly manufacturing requirements for wire harnesses. In accordance with global standards, it aims to provide customers with the solutions for their entire passive connectivity requirement under one roof. Europe, North America and South America will be our target markets along with Asia. Major areas of our focus in the coming years will be: Extra High Voltage Projects: We strive to support customers from the outset â&#x20AC;&#x201C; starting from design, engineering, supply and erection to the end

(system management) in finding the right cable system solution to address their efficiency and reliability challenges. Our high voltage projects include the following markets: Underground cabling solutions for cities, substation interconnections, smart solutions for power generation segments like thermal, hydro, solar, wind and industrial infrastructure like oil & gas, refineries etc. Medium Voltage solutions: Medium voltage cable is a necessary component for power transmission and distribution in the voltage range of 11 kV to 33 kV. It is used across power, oil & gas, mining, chemicals (industrial), renewables, and infrastructure sector. Asia-Pacific is the largest contributor of medium voltage cables and it is anticipated to be the fastest growing market. Moreover, rapid industrialization and urbanization has been the key driving factor sustaining the growth of the medium voltage cables market. Industrialization and urbanization has been increasing at a much faster pace in the developing economies, resulting in more requirements for power generation, transmission, and distribution and thus, it is expected to boost the requirement of medium voltage cables. Building & Infrastructure: We aim to provide reliable cabling and smarter energy solutions to support buildings, to become more efficient, livable and sustainable. It covers the following markets: Building, smart cities/smart grids, e-mobility, local infrastructure, decentralized energy systems, rural electrification. LS Cable India is implementing a strategy of differentiation through technical performance, particularly in terms of fire resistance, energy efficiency, and ease of installation. We propose a wide range of services in this market, including professional training, paced deliveries for

Sep-Oct, 2020

CABLING & ENERGY SOLUTIONS major projects and shared inventory management at distributors’ premises. We are committed to standards of the industry aimed at long lasting and performing products. Recently, we have added building wires in our product portfolio, and consequently, we have set up a dedicated facility for the same. We manufacture the building wires by using special grade compounds of international standards for insulation keeping in mind the need for safety in electrical applications. We have received a very positive response from the market and expect healthy growth in this segment in the coming years. Telecommunication solutions: With the increasing demand for data transmission capacities, we are expanding our telecom solutions to the core of our ambitions. In today’s hyper-connected world, we see our role in connecting people, businesses, cities, and continents through our full range of differentiated connectivity solutions.

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As an ideal partner advancing with its customers, we are ready for a new growth phase. Thus, we have been looking forward to building and expanding our business with enhanced capabilities in existing products. Moving a step ahead, we are constantly designing and developing new products as a part of our ongoing innovation at our new plant. Abiding by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Vocal for Local’ initiatives, LS Cable India stands committed to the motto with enhanced capabilities in the businesses of wire harnessing, RF jumpers, power cable assembly units and fibre optic assembly units. We aim to promote high quality, “Made in India cables” for all sectors. Going forward, we intend to bring more products and solutions to cater to the growing power industry in India. In the telecom segment, apart from RF cables, we offer 4G/5G solutions keeping in mind the technological advancements in the field.

WCI: With the crisis brought by the global pandemic, how would you describe the challenges and impediments it has brought in the Indian cable and wire industry with regard to manufacturing and the supply chain? HHP: Like any industry, the cable industry has also been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. On average, we estimate a reduction of around 40% in revenue in the first quarter of 2020 compared to 2019 across the industry, but we are hopeful for a bounce-back in terms of revenue and order bookings by Q4 2020. As manufacturing has also picked up after the first few months of strict lockdown, we are doing our best to complete orders and contribute to the growth of the economy. However, most of the power cable business is driven by the government organizations and their policies, making them to be the fulcrum of the entire cable industry.

Sep-Oct, 2020

CABLING & ENERGY SOLUTIONS We expect a rapid recovery in the supply chain and turnkey markets. The year 2020 will serve as a turning point as we take another leap forward and produce results in line with the following objectives: To pursue profit-oriented business by innovating our business structure: The business environment is more difficult than ever due to the collapse of the global supply chain and demand shock ensued from the COVID 19 pandemic. However, we will proactively respond to market changes and convert this crisis into an opportunity. Our product and business models will be restructured to increase profitability and ensure sustainable growth. To continue our efforts to secure the competitiveness of product quality: To implement quality management, our employees at production and construction sites will stick to basic principles. With our goal of ‘zero quality cost’ and ‘zero failures’, we will strengthen our capacity for quality and set customer trust as our highest value. To increase our global presence through customized business strategies:

Our global businesses have been restructured based on their characteristics and market environments, are now being operated at regional headquarters such as in Europe, Middle East and Africa. We will do our utmost to position ourselves as a leading global company with business strategies tailored basis regional requirements.

WCI: What are your thoughts about the business environment in India for cable manufacturers? HHP: The government is doing major expansion in the power sector and as a consequence, there has been a significant spike in the demand for cables and accessories. With regard to ease of doing business, the government is quite supportive and encouraging. However, there are some issues with cash flow, which isn’t always maintained due to delayed payments. One of our major expectations from the government is to support us with timely availability of funds and payments within the due dates as per the contract terms. This would help us to have smooth operations and support the utilities even better. The Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion has issued revised public procurement order with preference to ‘Make in India’ products, which clearly defines local content requirements. We expect this order to fuel a sustained growth for us in the coming years in various business segments. As the Indian customers are being more focused on quality products, we believe that these standards will rise further in the coming years. We are quite gratified that we have invested in a big way in maintaining quality in our products and services as it makes us prepared to cater to the different needs of the customers. We have enhanced our domestic capability so as to export our products, competing with other emerging economies and to become

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We have enhanced our domestic capability so as to export our products, competing with other emerging economies and to become a viable supplier in the global market. a viable supplier in the global market. In this context, the government has made major efforts to ensure the facilitation and maintain the ecosystem. We expect more incentives and promotions to come up in the future through pertinent policies of the government. Overall, it can be said that the atmosphere is quite conducive for the Indian cable industry.

WCI: What advantages does LS Cable India have over other Indian cable manufacturers according to you, in terms of being part of a Global group? HHP: In my experience, LS Cable has the greater advantage over its competition as we have a preestablished corporate structure and workplace systems as a result of being part of the large group which help us in providing timely delivery and superior quality of products to the customers. Thanks to these pre-established frameworks, LS Cable India has higher efficiency and optimal output that has been perfected over 6 decades of rich experience, making it a global leader in the industry. In the same vein, we also have the added advantage of adhering to global quality standards and norms, making it easier for us to enter foreign markets seamlessly and at the same time, offering them the ‘Make in India’ experience. We have a great technological support and innovation from our parent company and also, by providing world-class training for our staff, we’ve been able to deliver better.

Sep-Oct, 2020

POWER & TRANSMISSION

Power Grid Corporation: Leveraging Capabilities to Consistently Generate Maximum Value for All Stakeholders The 31st Annual General Meeting of Power Grid Corporation of India Limited was held on September 22, 2020 through Video Conferencing/Other Audio Visual Means (OAVM). The meeting presented the performance in FY 2019-20, highlighting the various developments and the future strategies of the company. The company registered a total income and profit after tax (PAT) of INR 38,670.96 crore and INR 11,059.40 crore, respectively.

Overview of performance of Power Grid in FY 2019-20 Power Grid has been conferred the ‘Maharatna’ CPSE status by the Government of India, coinciding with the completion of 30 years of incorporation of the company. The status provides enhanced powers to the board of the company enabling the management to exercise greater financial autonomy. Commemorating its new identity as a Maharatna, Power Grid adopted a new logo which reflects gesture of service to the people & nation, commitment to green energy, sustainability, stability and excellence in technology. A number of large and important projects were commissioned and completed during FY 2019-20 including the ±800 kV Champa & Kurukshetra HVDC Station Bipole-2 (Pole-III and Pole-IV) which increased the inter-regional power transfer capacity of the country by 3,000 MW; 765kV D/c Ajmer-Bikaner-Moga; 400kV S/c Singrauli-Allahabad; and 400kV D/c Nabinagar II-Patna lines. The assets capitalized added about INR 20,320 crore to the gross block of the company. The capital expenditure during the year has been INR 15,313 crore against the target of INR 15,000 crore. Power Grid has added 4,984 circuit km (ckm) of extra-high voltage (EHV) transmission lines, 37,987 mega volt ampere (MVA) transformation capacity and 3 new substations during the year. With these developments, the total transmission assets have

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increased to 163,282 ckm of interstate transmission lines, and 248 no.s of substations with transformation capacity of 409,899 MVA. The large and growing transmission network of the company has achieved availability of 99.82% with number of tripping per line contained at 0.39. The operational performance of the company is comparable with global transmission utilities both on network performance parameters as well as cost effectiveness. The company registered a total income of INR 38,317.97 crore and profit after tax (PAT) INR 10,811.18 crore in fiscal 2020, a growth of 7.58% and 8.78% respectively, over the corresponding amounts in fiscal 2019. On a consolidated basis, it registered a total income and profit after tax (PAT) of INR 38,670.96 crore and INR 11,059.40 crore, respectively. The revenue from telecom business increased by 5.3% (year to year) to INR 698.21 crore. On the consultancy front, the revenue stood at INR 610.98 crore for the year ended on March 31, 2020.

Telecom Business — POWERTEL Power Grid is leveraging its countrywide transmission infrastructure for its telecom business under the brand name ‘POWERTEL’. The company is providing a range of services under its unified license as national long distance (NLD) and internet service provider – category ‘A’ (ISP-‘A’) service authorizations. To increase its network reach for business opportunities, it is also partnering with last mile connectivity providers, transmission utilities and state electricity utilities for RoW, fiber leasing, etc. The Maharatna company has a strong portfolio of clients in diverse businesses including central and state governments, CPSEs, private sector entities, global and domestic IT companies etc. Apart from point-topoint leased line bandwidth services, internet services, the company is also catering to customers in the enterprise segment by providing virtual private networks (VPN) up to 10 Gbps connectivity on its multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) cloud.

Sep-Oct, 2020

POWER & TRANSMISSION POWERTEL established broadband telecom network of about 67000 Kms connecting over 714 POPs on extensively spread transmission infrastructure. It is the only utility in the country having PAN-India overhead optic fibre on its extra high voltage transmission network, and one of the executing agencies for major prestigious projects of Govt. of India, like — national knowledge network (NKN), BharatNet etc. During the year 2019-20, the company’s telecom network coverage increased to 66,922 km from 60,990 km at the end of previous year and the telecom backbone availability for the year was 99.97%. Power Grid extended support to its clients during the COVID-19 lockdown period by ensuring quick response to their upgradation and other customer service requests. The company is exploring new businesses like use of transmission towers for telecom purposes by providing power to the telecom antennae and setting up of data centres. Further, with a vision to directly serve neighboring countries with reliable connectivity, Power Grid has applied to the Department of Telecommunication (DoT) for grant of ILD service authorization in its existing unified license. During the year, it has initiated the process of incorporation of a wholly owned subsidiary company for telecom business.

Contribution to BharatNet initiative: Progress so far Power Grid is one of the implementing agencies for ‘BharatNet’ Phase-I project envisaged to provide broadband connectivity to gram panchayats (GPs), thus making valuable contribution to the initiatives of the Govt. of India for digital India. The company has laid OFC for 10,590 GPs by the end of FY 201920, out of 10,838 GPs allotted to the Company by Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL) under Phase-I. The scope of work is spread across 39 districts in 5 states viz., Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand & Odisha.

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Adoption of latest technology Power Grid has developed an inhouse software tool, POWERGRID Asset Life Management System (PALMS), for improved monitoring of its fleet of transformers and reactors. At the end of FY 2019-20, nearly 1,300 transformers and 1,700 reactors are being monitored through this system and the analysis of data generated empowers asset managers with better knowledge and awareness about the assets, helping them in timely and appropriate decision making. Further, the ompany uses various technological tools for ensuring better availability of transmission lines such as aerial patrolling of transmission lines, thermo-vision scanning, corona camera, high resolution video and digital camera, android based patrolling application for live updation of data and effective monitoring of critical locations etc.

states. A comprehensive transmission scheme has been evolved for integrating above renewable energy zones at an estimated cost of INR 42,000 crore of which works of INR 17,500 crore have been allocated for implementation either through Power Grid or through bidding route. Projects worth INR 16,000 crore are under bidding and the balance is under discussion/approval. Going forward, the sector expects sustained growth in installed capacity with greater share of renewables and the company is well positioned for the same.

Way forward

Power Grid is promoting e-mobility by adopting electric vehicles for its own use and by installing fast EV charging stations at a number of places. With the support from Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and EV (FAME) Scheme, a Govt. of India scheme for e-mobility promotion, the company is also in the process of establishing eleven multimodal charging stations at Shillong.

As the Government of India has set a target of establishing 175GW of renewable capacity by December 2022, which includes 100GW solar capacity and 60GW wind capacity; thus, towards fulfillment of this target, 66.5GW potential renewable energy zones have been identified comprising 50GW solar and 16.5GW wind in seven RE rich

A cooperation agreement has been signed with Africa50 for development of transmission project in Kenya on PPP model through joint venture in which Power Grid shall have equity stake as a technical partner. Africa50 is an infrastructure investment platform that contributes to Africa’s growth by developing and investing in projects.

Sep-Oct, 2020

TECHNICAL ARTICLE FUHR GmbH & Co. KG:

Profile Wire Measurement in Process With a Statistics Module, Data Export and Frequency Analysis Until recently, measuring systems used to determine the surface quality of products inline during the process were almost exclusively deployed for process control. Process variables were measured, compared with target values and the settings of the production plant were optimized with the deviations determined. But in times of BIG DATA and Industry 4.0, this is often no longer sufficient. The quality of production processes should not only be regulated, but also analysed and documented. As a manufacturer of rolling mills, FUHR is constantly being challenged by increasing demands on the finished wireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s geometric precision. Accuracies of class 6 according to ISO 386 are almost standard. This implies a permissible deviation of +1- 0.0030 mm for small profile wires with a nominal diameter of up to 3 mm. If a process capability (Cp or Cpk) is also required, a spread of only +1- 0.0015 mm remains in production. In order to ensure that these requirements are met in daily production, the wire must be continuously measured whilst exiting the rolling mill and the roll positions must be adjusted fully automatically. In multi-stage rolling processes it is necessary to measure and calibrate right after the pre-rolling stages. Therefore, modern high-speed rolling mills made by FUHR are equipped with several measuring systems. Conventional laser shadow measurement systems, as typically used in drawing round wires, have not proven to be successful in profiling lines. On the one hand, even a slight tilting of the wire changes the size of the shadow. On the other hand, laser systems cannot be used permanently in the wet area of the pre-rolling stages. FUHR therefore relies on tactile measuring systems, in which the wire is scanned with diamond-studded, highresolution displacement measuring systems.

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Tactile measuring device

Alternatively, instead of diamond styli, stylus rollers especially adapted to the wire geometry are available. These measuring systems have been developed and built by FUHR for several years. They are characterized by precision, robustness and a particularly good value-for money. As a result, it is now possible and common practice to integrate more than just one of these systems into a rolling mill. FUHR uses these systems in new machines, but also supplies them for existing and third-party plants. In particular, retrofitting measuring devices that are no longer supported by the manufacturer offers a financial added value: on the one hand, running existing measuring technology does not have to be replaced by new technology, and on the other hand, systems of different origins can be monitored with one visual output module. In order to be able to fulfill the customer requirements for data analysis and quality documentation mentioned at the beginning of this article, FUHR has now brought its data acquisition and evaluation system F-MAS to market

maturity. It is available as an additional option to the tactile measuring systems but can also be retrofitted to existing digital or analogue measuring systems. During its development, special attention was paid to compatibility with third-party systems - particularly with regards to integration into existing systems. With F-MAS, two wire dimensions (e.g. width and thickness of a rectangular profile) are measured with a measuring frequency of 1000 Hz. This real data is displayed in diagrams, statistical values are calculated, and frequency distributions are displayed. Reports are generated and raw data is exported. Integration into customer networks is a matter of course. Data export to standard data analysis software is possible via an OPC-UA interface. Also integrated is an FFT analysis, which detects cyclical dimensional fluctuations. Thus, for example, the concentricity error of a roller or the defect of a bearing or gearbox is reliably unmasked as the cause of a quality problem based on the frequency of occurrence of the error.

Sep-Oct, 2020

NEWS

RR Kabel Acquires Bengaluru based Arraystorm Lighting Viewed as a merger of the mutual strengths of two experts in their respective fields, this acquisition will see the perfect amalgamation of competencies, talent, innovation, and expertise. October 12, 2020

Kabel, a globally renowned brand offering a complete electrical ecosystem, has recently acquired Arraystorm Lighting Private Limited. Arraystorm - is a Bengaluru based, premium LED lighting brand that was owned by Kores India. This acquisition will facilitate RR Kabel’s entry and a strong foothold in the LED lighting sector, giving them the desired competitive edge. Through this acquisition, RR Kabel envisages aggressive penetration in the LED market and a strong presence across India. 

RR Kabel team with Arraystorm

China to Invest Nearly USD 900 Billion in Power Grids This huge investment would be made on segments such as ultra high voltage power transmission, electric vehicle chargers and new digital infrastructure. October 10, 2020

hina will invest close to USD 900 billion in the next five years to help further develop the country’s power grids, as reported by a leading daily. Investments in power grids and related industries are expected to exceed 6 trillion yuan (USD 896 billion) in 2021-2025. 

China to invest USD 900 billion in power grids

www.wirecable.in

Sep-Oct, 2020

NEWS

LS Cable & System Completes 5G Parts Factory in India LS Cable & System has been supplying its products to mobile carriers, Reliance Jio, Airtel and Vodafone, through Samsung Electronics and Ericsson in India and has taken up about 20 percent of the Indian market. October 6, 2020

Cable & System has completed construction of its second telecommunications plant in India and has doubled production capacity of communications parts. LS Cable plans to foster LS Cable & System India, or LSCI, as a specialized production base for communications harness to respond to India’s rapidly growing domestic market and target overseas markets such as Europe and North America. A communications harness is a cable component that connects mobile communications base stations and antennas to the wider network. “Global telecommunications equipment companies such as Ericsson and Nokia are fostering global sourcing bases in India,” said Park Hyun-ho, head of LSCI. “We plan to secure quality by computerizing quality control systems and expand the market.” 

Panoramic view of LSCI communication plant

Nitya Electro Starts Production at Greater Noida Plant The company will manufacture German technology-based house wires, multicore cables, specialty cables, LT Power cables at the plant. October 27, 2020

itya Electro Controls Group has started production at its wires and cables manufacturing plant at Greater Noida in Uttar Pradesh. The company also announced roping in Bollywood actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui as its brand ambassador. The company will manufacture German technology-based house wires, multicore cables, specialty cables, LT Power cables at the plant. “We are happy to launch the state of art wires and cables manufacturing plant and We are always committed to providing our consumers with the best, safe, and advanced technology wires and cables. We are coming up with German technology advanced products for Indian consumers to ensure the best quality and safety,” Nitya Group CMD Mr. Prashant Srivastava said in a statement.

Representational Image: Cables

Mr. Srivastava further said that the company has signed Nawazuddin Siddiqui for wires and cables division to showcase the perfection and safety in all range of consumer and industrial wires and cables and to connect with the audience. 

The company had earlier announced plans to invest INR 200 crore over a five-year period.

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Sep-Oct, 2020

NEWS

Motherson Sumi Signs Strategic Agreement to Acquire Bombardier’s Electrical Wiring Interconnection Systems Business The transaction includes the transfer of assets, employees and inventories, on a debt-free and cash-free basis and is valued at around USD 10 million approximately. (subject to customary adjustments). October 20, 2020

uto component major Motherson Sumi Systems Limited (MSSL),

via its Mexican subsidiary, Motherson Rolling

Stocks

R.L.

C.V. (MRS), has signed an asset sale and purchase agreement to acquire the activities of Electrical Wiring

Interconnection

Systems

(EWIS) performed at Bombardier Transportation’s

manufacturing

site in Huehuetoca, Mexico (BT Ensambles México) . MRS is part of the Motherson Rolling Stock Division which designs and manufactures

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BT Electrical Wiring Interconnection Systems (EWIS) provides world-class harnesses and electrical assembly based on standard solutions.

electrical cabinets, power packs and

execution of this definitive agreement

electrical distribution systems for

between MRS and Bombardier, the

leading rolling stock manufacturers.

relationship will expand to Mexico.

MSSL, through PKC Group (acquired

The transaction includes the transfer

in March 2017), is engaged in the

of assets, employees and inventories,

manufacturing of wiring harnesses

on a debt-free and cash-free basis

for rolling stock, mainly in Europe

and is valued at around USD 10

and the Americas region. In 2019,

million approx. (subject to customary

the company through its subsidiary

adjustments). The revenue of the

Motherson Rolling Stock Systems

said business was USD 25 million for

GB Limited, UK (MRSS) acquired

calendar year 2019. The transaction

Bombardier’s

stock

is subject to customary closing

electrical component and systems

events and expected to complete in

business in Derby. Now, with the

Q4 FY20-21. 

rolling

Sep-Oct, 2020

NEWS

Delta Tecnic Opens New Plant in Mexico to Develop Color Concentrates For Automotive Cable Delta Tecnic relies on Micromasterbatch to reinforce its leadership position in the supply of color concentrates for plastics applications in the new ecotechnological environment. October 7, 2020

elta Tecnic, which specializes in the production and distribution of color concentrates and raw materials for plastics, cables, inks, paints and cosmetics, reinforces its commitment to the automotive industry through Micromasterbatch, a type of masterbatch with a smaller pellet size that improves dilution when extruding cables. The company is thus enhancing its innovative role in the industry. Micromasterbatches are applied to both PVC and polyolefins, and provide better control and optimal color homogeneity, improved product quality, increased cable production speed and lowers costs. For Delta Tecnic, this commitment is key, since the cost, productivity, efficiency and quality requirements are very high in the industry.

Mr. Eric Xirinachs, CEO, Delta Tecnic

To facilitate this step, Delta Tecnic has opened a new plant in the town of Querétaro (Mexico), becoming the first manufacturer in that country to specialize in color concentrates for automotive cable. The factory in Mexico leverages all the knowledge that the company has acquired over more than three decades, which is key to optimizing the production and distribution of its products throughout the Americas.

in hybrids and battery electric cars. Delta Tecnic accepts the technological challenge of developing new materials to promote the transition to electro-mobility. This environmental awareness also results in a greater commitment to renewable energies and, consequently, to cabling for wind and photovoltaic energy, and more. Of particular importance in the plastics market is thermal insulation, with new designs for more complex profiles that result in lower energy consumption in public and private buildings. Food packaging also features innovative packaging that promotes the efficient use of resources and energy, contributing to the circular economy.

“Delta Tecnic is proud to have a resilient model based on innovation that allows us to grow in strategic industries”, says Eric Xirinachs, CEO of Delta Tecni c. “Our commitment to Micromasterbatches is essential to offering a new and sustainable product that can speed up production processes while lowering costs”.

There is also an increase in the market for telecommunications cables and wiring applications for large, domestic appliances, where the greater complexity in energy saving programmes is creating an increased demand in the needs for electrical wiring. Delta Tecnic formulates tailored solutions to supplement these new technological developments.

The CEO is confident that “the new factory in Mexico will allow Delta Tecnic to consolidate its position as a technological leader, as well as to supply products to companies in various sectors anywhere in the world”. For Xirinachs, “the international expansion in today’s context reflects the great work of our entire team, which is already setting the standard”.

New opportunities in the context of COVID-19

The electric car, increasingly strategic

Delta Tecnic confirms a fundamental step in its strategy in a complex context. Namely, Delta Tecnic has not interrupted its supply at any time, despite the fact that various industries have had to stop their activity. The company supplies strategic companies, which results in a resilient model. It has even managed to expand its market share without losing profitability.

Delta Tecnic’s commitment to products that are more sophisticated, both technologically and environmentally, reflects changing consumer attitudes towards electric cars. In Europe and the United States, sales of this type of vehicle are doubling, with a significant presence of plug-

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Sep-Oct, 2020

NEWS As part of its plan to adapt to the pandemic, the company has cut travel spending by more than half and has reinforced its commitment to digitization. Communications have been strengthened in its relationships with employees, clients and suppliers, whether through webinars, videoconferences, virtual fairs or technical presentations. The company is now more efficient at managing time and is more committed to sustainability.

factors in strategic industries such as automotive, telecommunications, energy, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, banking and architecture. Delta Tecnic distributes raw materials from leading brands in Spain and Portugal, and markets its colour concentrates in more than 60 countries, including Spain, Mexico, India, Morocco, Russia, Germany and the United Kingdom. It has two production plants in Sant Celoni (Barcelona), with a total surface area of 15,000 m2, and a multidisciplinary staff of 160 people. The Mexico plant has a surface area of 3,000 m2, expandable to 5,000 m2, and currently has ten employees, and is forecast to have between thirty and forty workers within a year. 

This is because all the changes that are taking place in the environment and, of course, in the various markets in which Delta Tecnic operates, have spurred the company to strengthen its technological leadership. The digital transformation, the implementation of new technical solutions and sustainability are all decisive

Ducab HV Secures Cabling Contract for MBR Solar Park Phase 5 Project at WETEX 2020 Renewable energy is a focus of governments throughout the Middle East as they seek to move away from hydrocarbon reliance and develop more diverse energy grids. Customized cabling is thus in high demand for projects that seek to harness the power of solar, wind, and nuclear energy. October 27, 2020

ucab HV, a subsidiary of Ducab Group, announced during WETEX 2020 that it will supply and install highvoltage cable for Phase 5 of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park (MBR Solar Park), the world’s largest single-site solar park based on the independent power producer model. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), the Authority implementing MBR Solar Park, is continuously committed to position Dubai as a global hub for clean energy and green economy through several initiatives, and Ducab is proud to be supporting DEWA on this project to achieve the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 which aims to provide 75% of Dubai’s total power output from clean energy by 2050. The Phase 5 Project of the MBR Solar Park involves a quantity of approximately 275km of cable, with relevant accessories and terminations also provided. The project will be executed over three plots of 300 megawatts each and is one of the most cost-effective solar parks in the world. In addition to cable and accessory supply, Ducab HV will be responsible for cable installation as the cable subcontractor appointed by Shanghai Electric of China. The latest project award follows Ducab HV having successfully energised the full turnkey 132kV system for Phase 3 of the MBR Solar Park.

Ducab HV announces MBR Solar Park Phase 5 Project win at WETEX 2020

from across the region and further afield to develop unique cable offerings that meet the specific needs of renewable energy projects, such as the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant. 

Over the years, Ducab has worked closely with partners

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Sep-Oct, 2020

NEWS

Dubai to Spend USD 23 Billion on Electricity Sector in Next Five Years Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA) will spend USD 22 billion on energy projects over the next five years, with renewables accounting for a growing share of electricity output. October 28, 2020

ubai’s electricity sector will require total investment of AED 86 Billion (USD 23 billion) over the next five years as state utility Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA) pushes ahead with new projects and infrastructure upgrades Speaking during a virtual press event, Saeed Mohammed al-Tayer, CEO of DEWA, said that USD 23 billion would be invested on new generation projects, including renewable energy schemes, and transmission and distribution (T&D) networks.

Dubai plans USD 23 Billion of energy projects over next five years

As reported in a leading daily, a significant amount of the planned investments over the next five years will be in the renewable energy sector, with Dubai planning for clean energy resources to meet 75 percent of the emirate’s energy demand by 2050. Further, the developer appointed to deliver the 900 MW fifth phase of Dubai’s Mohammed bin Rashid (MBR) solar park had reached financial close for the USD 564 million project.

Saudi Arabia’s Acwa Power for the 900 MW fifth phase project in April. The PPA was signed for a levelised cost of electricity (LCOE) tariff of $cents1.6953/kWh, one of the lowest PV solar tariffs in the world. The MBR solar park is planned to have a total installed capacity of 5000 MW by 2030. The park currently has 1,013MW of PV solar capacity under operation, with 1850 MW of PV and concentrated solar power (CSP) capacity currently under construction. 

DEWA signed the power purchase agreement (PPA) with

NKT to Develop Prototype for World’s Longest Superconducting Power Cable Stadtwerke München Infrastrukur has now started the first stage of the development of project “SuperLink” which will be the longest superconducting cable line when finalized. NKT is one of the key partners in the development phase of the innovative project. October 28, 2020 ith a green light to kick off the SuperLink project, NKT and W six other partners now start the prototype development of the superconducting power cable technology which will be

especially designed to the city of Munich, Germany. SuperLink is a project for the future and when the technology has been developed and the project tendered, it is expected to become a 12-kilometer underground power link which will be the longest superconducting power cable solution in the world.

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Superconducting Power Cable

Sep-Oct, 2020

NEWS For NKT, the ambitious project is an important indication about the future potential of superconducting power cables.

The SuperLink is a project-based solution adapted to the needs of Stadtwerke München, and we hope to prove the commercial viability of the technology in a situation of increasing grid congestion driven by urbanization, increased electrification and more renewable energy entering the energy mix. Superconducting power cables will make it possible to expand the power grid in critical areas without having to dig up half the city, says Anders Jensen, Chief Technology Officer in NKT.

Mr. Anders Jensen, Chief Technology Officer in NKT stated, “We are proud to take part in the early stages of the development of SuperLink where Stadtwerke München and Stadtwerke München Infrastruktur are taking a significant step to leverage superconducting power cables. It is important to continue to develop solutions to support the transition to renewable energy and the ambitions of the German Energiewende. In NKT, we see superconducting power cables as a part of the future to ensure optimized access to clean energy in larger cities such as Munich.”

The superconducting power cables is extremely compact compared to conventional cable technology and can become a key enabler of the transition to renewable energy in urban areas due to the high power-to-size ratio. The SuperLink is expected to have a power rating of 500 MW and will be installed between two substations in Munich using existing ducts to keep the construction work at a minimum.

In close collaboration with the other project partners Linde plc, THEVA, the South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences (FH-SWF), Stadtwerke München Infrastruktur, the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and Stadtwerke München, NKT now starts the development of the technology based on high-temperature superconductors for Stadtwerke München Infrastruktur, a subsidiary to the utility Stadtwerke München.

Superconducting power cables enable power-dense transmission carrying a large amount of electric power in a very compact cable design. Also, SuperLink is expected to become a 12 km link with a power rating of 500 MW and a voltage level of 110 kV. It is planned to be installed in existing ducts to minimize the construction work. SuperLink will deliver a large amount of power through a narrow corridor in the heart of Munich. The superconducting cable is cooled to minus 200ºC in a closed circuit with the environmental harmless refrigerant nitrogen. Moreover, a cooling system with redundant back-up coolers will be an integral part of the system. 

Superconductors to meet global challenges With 1.5 million residents, Munich is a great city to develop and live-test the possibilities of superconducting power cables to expand the power grids in urban areas. Large cities around the world are facing the same challenges with growing populations driving an increasing demand for green electricity which is challenging the capacity of the existing power grids.

Sterlite Technologies to Acquire Italy’s Optotec for EUR 29 Million The acquisition will create a solid springboard to offer a complete bouquet of solutions to customers across Europe, India and the Middle East. November 2, 2020

terlite Technologies Limited (STL) has announced the signing of definitive agreements to acquire Optotec S.p.A, a leading Optical Interconnect Products Company based in Italy. Optotec, a privately held Company, provides a complete range of Optical Interconnect Products for Telecommunication, FTTH and Cloud Networks in Europe. Optotec, under its patented technology, has an end-to-end portfolio ranging from Outside Plant (OSP) to Central Office (CO) to Customer Premises (CP) that would complement STL’s “Opticonn” offering of optical fibre and cables for a truly integrated products portfolio. Optotec has a strong legacy in Optical Interconnect portfolio of over 20 years and shares long standing relationships with marquee European telecom operators.

Optotec specializes in optical interconnect products

EUR 29 million. The deal will be financed by a mix of internal accruals and foreign currency debt instruments. The Closing of the transaction is subjected to customary regulatory approvals. 

The transaction is structured to acquire 100% of Optotec’s shareholding on closing at an enterprise value (EV) of

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Sep-Oct, 2020

NEWS

Lafayette Acquires Elevator Cable Business GEBA CABLE in Carve-out From Gebauer & Griller GG Group (Gebauer & Griller) is strengthening its strategic orientation by de-merging and selling its Elevator Division Geba Cables to mid-cap Investor Lafayette Mittelstand Capital. October 10, 2020

Group (Gebauer & Griller) is strengthening its strategic orientation by demerging and selling its Elevator Division “Geba Cables” to the mid-cap Investor Lafayette Mittelstand Capital. The sold division consists of a sales unit in Vienna and two production sites in VeÍké Leváre, Slovakia and Bangalore, India. GG Group‘s strategic consolidation phase, which began before Covid-19, reaches its next major milestone with the now completed transfer of the Elevator Division to Lafayette Mittelstand Capital. Its new owner will continue the Elevator Division with locations in Vienna, Slovakia and India under the name of “Geba Cables”. The transaction was undertaken with focus on long-term and sustainable development opportunities for the business units targeted, the involvement of employee representatives and the preservation of all existing employee rights, thus representing a beneficial outcome for all parties involved.

Company will focus on strong growth segments in Europe and Asia.

offers custom tailored Just-in-Sequence Wiring Harnesses for each elevator type. In 2019 Geba Cables generated revenue of approximately EUR 25 million. Geba’s elevator cable products are used to connect elevator cabinets with elevator control units for the transmission of electricity as well as data (incl. infotainment and video signals). The core products are complemented by products for the elevator control unit, elevator shaft wiring, engine room, elevator door wiring, as well as lighting related cable systems. 

Geba Cable’s product portfolio covers a wide range starting with standard flat cables up to customer specific cables such as cables with integrated data elements or cable systems with embedded optical fibre. Geba Cables

LS Cable Develops New Optical Cable Capable of Preventing Hacking LS Cable has diversified its cable production to meet the needs of various industries. November 5, 2020

Cable & Systems has developed a new optical cable capable of preventing hacking by using

a special optical fiber and strengthened coating that fundamentally blocks information leakage. An optical cable transmits information through light signals. If the cable is bent in a round shape, the light leaks

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LS Cable develops optical cables for hacking prevention.

Sep-Oct, 2020

NEWS due to its straightness. At this time,

were introduced, but because they

transmission of power and data, as

a hacking device can be connected

are costly to produce and difficult to

well as communication cables that

to intercept the optical signals to

install, they are not commonly used.

weigh at least 20% less due to the

steal information, or inversely optical signals can be added to paralyze communication networks. In the past, to prevent hacking,

C&S

premium including

has

recently

communication electrical

released cables,

wires

for

CCTVs capable of simultaneous

infrared coating and metal tubes

use of carbon fiber. One innovation after another in a bid to boost the competitiveness of its infrastructure technologies in the age of the 4th Industrial Revolution. 

Sterlite Technologies Launches an Industry First ‘Digital Inclusion’ Solution - STL Garv In the past twenty five years, India has brought the first half of its population online and in the coming ten years, we will connect the second half. But, to unlock rural growth, we must supplement this connectivity with powerful rural digital applications which actually transform rural lives for the better. STL Garv does just that. November 12, 2020

terlite Technologies has launched STL Garv – a rural digital platform

that will work to bridge the digital divide in Indian villages. STL Garv was launched at a power packed virtual event by Shri Amitabh Kant, CEO Niti Aayog. STL Garv uses BharatNet connectivity and aspires to transform rural lives and usher in growth and prosperity across rural India. It is designed to instill a sense of equality in the people of rural India. It empowers rural Indian communities with meaningful digital services like Telemedicine, e-Tutoring, Government

STL Garv

to Citizen Services and assisted

in 11 villages - impacting over 54k

With Garv, STL is contributing to Prime

e-Commerce.

lives across Maharashtra, Telangana,

Minister Narendra Modi’s Digital India

and Uttar Pradesh. These services

where access to information has no

have especially helped people in the

barrier. 

STL started the design of Garv ecosystem in 2018 and today is piloting

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challenging times of this pandemic.

Sep-Oct, 2020

NEWS

OFC Makers Demand Benefits Under PLI Scheme Telecom Equipment Manufacturers Association too expressed the need to provide impetus to fibre-based network. November 17, 2020

omegrown optic fibre cable (OFC) makers have sought benefits under the Centre’s prestigious productionlinked incentive (PLI) scheme following India’s aggressive roadmap for next-generation technologies particularly the fifth-generation or 5G networks. As reported in a leading daily, Mr. NK Goyal, Chairman of the Telecom Equipment Manufacturers Association (TEMA) stated the association is demanding the inclusion of optical fiber cables and preform in the list of telecom items as India has now the potential to become fiber capital of the world with the PLI. The optical can be a showcase for India for the world.

Optic fibre cable

The immense scope of OFC production, a backbone of futuristic technologies such as fourth-generation (4G) and fifth-generation (5G) networks within India and deployment including in several other developing nations, according to the industry stakeholders have been overlooked by the Centre and expecting a course correction.

Early this month, the Cabinet has approved Rs 12,195 crore worth of stimulus as a part of the ambitious production incentive scheme for the telecom sector that includes localized manufacturing of core transmission gear including access and customer premises equipment, routers and switches.

The Delhi-based group is also likely to send a formal letter to the Prime Minister Office (PMO) seeking immediate intervention. 

Padanaplast Launches Cogegum® AFR 1809 UV — an Innovative HFFR Compound The new HFFR Compound has been developed to meet the demand of green products for wire and cable industry. November 15, 2020

adanaplast, specializing in polyolefin compounds for use in wires and cables, pipes and fittings has launched Cogegum® AFR 1809 UV — a new HFFR grade to answer the need to reduce plastic material waste and put in place a circular economy policy.

Cogegum® AFR 1809 UV is a thermoplastic HFFR grade intended for use as jacket in power, signal and control cables High mechanical performances, excellent fire retardant behavior and good processability on standard extrusion line are made available in a formulation where high quality and well controlled byproducts components are used. The task to give a new life to raw materials otherwise destined to become waste is reached in a product having an amazing quality/cost ratio.

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Cogegum AFR series consists of thermoplastic halogen-free flame retardant materials for wire and cable insulation and sheathing.

Sep-Oct, 2020

NEWS Cogegum® AFR 1809 UV is supplied in natural color pellets and can be colored in the most common tones used in cable industry.

in 1971, the company has pioneered the technology of XLPE silanecrosslinkable polyethylene compounds, and has been offering HFFR compounds for cable sheathing, wire insulation, pipe and fitting applications since 1982. In 2017, the business became a member of Finproject Group, a major Italian global player in crosslinkable polyolefin compounding, extrusion and molding. 

Padanaplast is based at Roccabianca near Parma in Italy and operates 14 state-of-the-art production lines certified to EN ISO 9001 - ISO EN 14001 and OHSAS 18001. Established

Nexans Umbilicals to Play Vital Role in Senegal’s First Offshore Oil Development Nexans’ Halden facility will provide both static and dynamic umbilicals for each phase of the project, with deliveries commencing in 2022. September 29, 2020

exans has signed a contract with Subsea 7 to design and manufacture 46km of umbilicals for the Sangomar field, offshore Senegal. The umbilicals, produced by Nexans’ specialized facility in Halden, Norway, will provide vital hydraulic, control and instrumentation services for a standalone floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) facility and associated subsea infrastructure. Nexans will deliver 13,471m of dynamic umbilicals which will be installed from north to south. Nexans will also provide 9.503m of main static umbilicals, 8,719m of production infield umbilicals, and 14,650m of injection infield umbilicals in the subsequent four phases of development. The Sangomar Field Development was discovered in 2014. Located 2km below the seabed floor, the field is spread over 400km², in water depths of 700 to 1,400 meters. The phased development includes the installation of stand-alone floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) facility and subsea infrastructure that will be designed to facilitate subsequent development phases. These options include potential gas export to Senegal and future subsea tie-backs to other fields. 

Nexans will supply 46 kilometers of umbilicals

Rosendahl Introduces New Double Spooler The spooler is suitable for products of up to 15 mm in diameter and flat cables, too. It can be used with every kind of metal core products. October 27, 2020

lines. Based on the wishes of its customers, Rosendahl specialists have developed a device that fully complies with European manufacturing standards (CE) and meets all safety requirements.

osendahl has launched its latest development, the new RODS1250H semi-automatic twin receiver. This device is ideal for retrofitting existing high speed isolation

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Sep-Oct, 2020

NEWS The new RODS1250H receiver features a high-strength frame, a clamping device for smooth product pulling and a height-adjustable roller to ensure uniform distribution - all this ensures ideal winding quality for a wide range of products. The RODS1250H dual receiver is designed to work with products up to 15 mm in diameter, as well as with flat cables. Its working speed reaches 1500 m/min when using reels weighing up to 2500 kg. Moreover, it is capable of switching between two coils at full operating speed without any restrictions. The automatic coil changing cycle takes a minimum amount of time, and then the device is loaded and unloaded manually. This receiver can be installed on a line for the manufacture of products with a conductor of any metal, and the high-tech Siemens S7-1500 controller guarantees simplicity and ease of use and maintenance. 

RODS Rosendahl Double Spooler

LAPP Introduces First Type R Robot Cable Torsion paired with horizontal linear movements: Ethernet cables have to withstand a lot when used in industrial robots. LAPP is now offering a solution: the new ETHERLINE® ROBOT PN Cat.5e complies with the new type R standard for PROFINET cables on robots. November 17, 2020

APP, the global market leader for integrated cable and connection technology solutions, has developed the new ETHERLINE® ROBOT PN Cat.5e. It is suitable for industrial data cabling within or on a robot and can be used in cable assemblies or laid freely. It offers a high load capacity, longevity and data communication reliability with data rates of up to 100 Mbit/s. Even challenging welding robot applications are no issue for LAPP’s all-rounder. The LAPP developers placed particular emphasis on choosing the right cable design. Thanks to the filling elements and reliable materials, such as the robust PUR outer sheath, the ETHERLINE® ROBOT PN Cat.5e not only covers the mechanical load requirements but also complies with important certifications and standards such as UL compliance as per AWM Recognized. This enables it to be exported as a component within a machine or system to the North American market. The new ETHERLINE® ROBOT PN Cat.5e is manufactured in LAPP’s own competence centre for data cables at CEAM Cavi Speciali in Monselice, Italy. CEAM Cavi Speciali is one of the leading manufacturers of data cables for industrial Ethernet and fieldbus and has been part of the LAPP Group since October 2016. 

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ETHERLINE® ROBOT PN Cat.5e Cable

Sep-Oct, 2020

NEWS

Sterlite Technologies to Fast Track Capacity Augmentation, Mulls Expansion in Two Phases The expansion plans have been galvanized by demand recovery in company’s major markets, reflected in its order book which increased to INR 10,705 crore in July-September quarter. October 25, 2020

terlite Technologies has decided to “fast track” its planned augmentation of optical fibre cable capacity, buoyed by the order book and demand funnel, as it looks to undertake expansion in two phases, possibly at lower costs, a top company official said. Sterlite Technologies Ltd (STL) Group CEO Anand Agarwal said the company has decided to lift the “pause and hold” on expansion to move full throttle ahead. Representational Image: Optic Fibre Cables

The capacity is expected to rise from 18 million fibre km (FKm) to 24 million Fkm in the first phase by the end of December.

The expansion plans have been galvanized by demand recovery in company’s major markets, reflected in its order book which increased to INR 10,705 crore in JulySeptember quarter. 

In the second phase, the company plans to move from 24 million Fkm to 33 million Fkm by March or April next year.

NKT Completes Upgrade of High-Voltage Power Link Connecting Denmark and Sweden October 14, 2020

ince 1915 the power grids of Sweden and Denmark have been connected by a power cable providing exchange of energy between the neighboring countries. NKT has completed the replacement of four high-voltage power cables installed in 1973 with four new 400 kV XLPE HVAC power cables. For NKT, the project was executed successfully according to the tight time schedule and the new power cables for the historical power link are now in full operation.

NKT has completed the replacement of four HV power cables installed in 1973

Interconnectors are essential to the power cable infrastructure needed to ensure an efficient integration of the increasing amount of renewable energy produced in Europe. We are happy to upgrade the cables across Öresund playing a key part in maintaining the high transmission security of both countries and to strengthen the interconnection of the European power grids, says Executive Vice President Claes Westerlind, head of the Swedish high-voltage NKT factory in Karlskrona.

national grid operator Svenska Kraftnät that awarded NKT the project in a consortium with Boskalis. In joint effort the two companies successfully replaced the original oil-filled cables with four new 400 kV XLPE HVAC power cables in close collaboration with Svenska Kraftnät and Energinet in Denmark. The new cables were manufactured at the company’s high-voltage power cable factory in Karlskrona, which is running on 100 % green electricity. 

The power link across Öresund is owned by the Swedish

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Sep-Oct, 2020

NEWS

Apple’s Top Cable Supplier to Start Mass Production in India Taiwan-based cable and connector producer and supplier Cheng Uei Precision Industry, also known by the name Foxlink, will set up a factory in Chennai soon. November 4, 2020

ne of the leading Apple Cable manufacturers – Cheng Uei Precision Industry, has announced its plans to start mass production of cables and connectors later this year at its upcoming facility in India. The cable supplier also called Foxlink will institute a factory in Chennai. As a part of the company’s plans for diversifying its supply chain and ramp up its production, the company has made major inroads in the Indian market. Foxlink seems to have added a subsidiary in Andhra Pradesh in March this year. “To establish a new subsidiary company in India, the initial investment amount is INR 160 million. Apple’s major assembly partners – Foxconn, Wistron and Pegatron, have all set up either a subsidiary or an iPhone assembly plant in India.

Apple USB Cable

According to Reuters, these companies plan to invest a total of almost USD 900 million in India in the next five years to tap

into a new production-linked incentive (PLI) plan. Amid the US-China trade war, these suppliers are looking to expand manufacturing in India. 

46000 Bihar Villages to be Connected With Optical Fibre Network Soon: RS Prasad The Union Minister affirms that the primary schools, Anganwadi centres, and ASHA workers will be provided with free connectivity for one year. October 30, 2020

howcasing the central government’s achievements in digital connectivity, Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said that nearly 46,000 villages in Bihar will be connected with optical fibre network in the next 6-7 months. Addressing a press conference, Mr. Prasad said that primary schools, Anganwadi centres and ASHA workers will also get free connectivity for one year. “The Prime Minister had announced that 6 lakh villages will be connected to the optical fibre network in one year. Optical fibre will come in 45,945 villages of Bihar in 6-7 months. This network is already there in all gram panchayats. Now, we will take it to the villages. This work will be done by our youth at Common Service Centres. The survey has already been completed in 27,012 villages and the rest will be completed

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Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad

by November. 6,000 optical fibres have already reached villages,” he said. 

Sep-Oct, 2020

NEWS

288 Chaupals of Karnal Equipped With Optical Fibre Network, WiFi Facility: CM Khattar With the ‘Bharat Net’ initiative, out of 382 gram panchayats in Karnal, optical fibre cabling of 288 panchayats has been completed. November 02, 2020

n the occasion of the 55th foundation day of Haryana, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar equipped 288 chaupals of Karnal district with Wi-Fi under Bharat Net Project. While inaugurating the e-chaupal programme at Karnal, Khattar also interacted with the sarpanches of various beneficiary villages of the scheme. In his address, CM Khattar said that out of 382 Gram panchayats in Karnal, 288 panchayats have been equipped with the optical fibre network and WiFi facilities. However, the facility is functional in 225 chaupals as of yet and further work is being carried out. Moreover, the internet charges are kept very low at Rs 10 so that everyone can afford the service. Now, the people who had to visit a government office for every little work can now avail as many as 550 services online from the comfort of their homes, added the CM. 

Chief Minister of Haryana, Manohar Lal Khattar

Prysmian Signed Preferred Bidder Agreement for Sofia Offshore Wind Farm The finalization of the contract is subject to final negotiations and to the final investment decision by RWE of the project. November 17, 2020

rysmian Group, world leader in the energy and telecom cable systems industry, has signed a preferred bidder agreement with RWE Renewables Sofia Offshore Wind Farm, the world’s second biggest offshore wind farm developer, for the development of the turn-key high voltage submarine and land export cable connection worth over EUR 200 million for Sofia Offshore Wind Farm project. The finalization of the contract is subject to final negotiations and to the final investment decision by RWE of the Project. Located 195 km from the nearest point on the UK’s North East coast, the 1.4 GW Sofia offshore wind farm, sited on the shallow central area of the North Sea known as Dogger Bank, is RWE Renewables’ largest single offshore wind

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Commissioning of the project is scheduled for late 2024.

Sep-Oct, 2020

NEWS project under development so far, as well as the farthest from shore. Once it becomes operational in 2025, it will be able to generate enough power to supply over 1.2 million homes with renewable electricity.

of ±320 kV submarine export cables with XLPE insulation, and 15 km of ±320 kV land cables with P-Laser insulation. All submarine cables will be produced at Prysmian Group’s centre of excellence in Pikkala (Finland), while the land cables will be manufactured at the Gron plant (France). The offshore cable operations will be performed using the Leonardo da Vinci, Prysmian’s new cutting-edge cable laying vessel that is the most capable in the market and is able to offer enhanced project versatility. Commissioning of the project is scheduled for late 2024. 

With the contract signature and notice to proceed both expected in Q1 2021, Prysmian Group will be responsible for the design, supply, installation and commissioning of an HVDC symmetrical monopole cable system that will connect Sofia’s offshore converter station with the onshore converter station in Teesside. The project involves more than 440 km

RailTel Plans INR 700 Crore IPO Early Next Year As part of the government’s disinvestment programme, public sector player RailTel is lining up an INR 700-crore IPO early next year, valuing the company at around INR 3,000 crore. December 7, 2020

ublic sector player RailTel is lining up a INR 700 crore initial public offering (IPO) early next year, valuing the company at around INR 3000 crore. This is a part of the government’s disinvestment programme. The IPO has been in the works for over a year but the building blocks are still being put in place, with the required number of independent directors still not on board, given the government slow appointment process. As reported in a leading daily, Mr. Puneet Chawla, CMD, RailTel Corporation of India Ltd. stated that the Covid-related restrictions had helped boost the company’s business, with the prospects looking up in the coming months. The miniratna PSU is one of the largest neutral telecom infrastructure providers in the country, owning an optical fibre network on exclusive Right of Way (RoW) along the railway tracks. It also provides broadband telecom and multimedia networks across the country. Mr. Chawla also added that Railwire, which is a broadband service, has grown by around two-and-a half times in the last eight-nine months. He further added that the company will continue to grow exponentially. Similarly, it has dedicated leased line service which has been provided to various institutions, including 722 universities and colleges. Now this service will have to be provided to other institutions as they require this. The company is expecting a tremendous demand and we will be upgrading our network capacity.  Mr. Puneet Chawla, CMD, RailTel Corporation of India Ltd.

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