ECD Solutions Mar/Apr 2014 by Westwick-Farrow Media

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ECD SOLUTIONS

FROM THE EDITOR

MARCH/APRIL 2014

CONTENTS

In February, the federal government appointed Dick Warburton, an opponent to pricing carbon, to head the renewable energy target (RET) review panel. The government has emphasised that the review will be open and transparent and a range of stakeholders will be consulted. The review has sparked concerns among the clean energy supporters, who are worried that the government may simply axe the target.

Merits of type testing

ustralian workplace the most volatile in terms of employee A turnover

Why is accredited testing important?

Updated ASHRAE/IES energy standard gains 30% savings

This will badly affect the prospects of the industry that employs around 19,000 people across 4500 small and medium businesses. To read more about the RET review and how it affects the solar future prospects of the solar industry is

19 Electrical Distribution

expected to be a popular topic at the

Short-circuit fault causes fire and equipment damage

Testing power cables

industry, visit page 59. RET and the

upcoming Solar 2014 conference and exhibition, to be held in Melbourne on 8-9 May. Make sure you attend the event if you are interested in expert analysis and opinion, latest solar/renewable technologies, energy efficiency and the sustainable built environment industries. On another note, the Royal Commission into the $2.5bn home insulation program

37 Comms + Data 39

Keep it cool

Thriving in the digital revolution

heard that two public servants under the Rudd government were given just two days to assess, cost and design the program. During the rollout of the scheme, four men died and there were

47 Automation + Security

hundreds of fires.

Tune up or rip and replace?

The Royal Commissioner, Ian Hanger,

Light up sales with LEDs

QC, has been asked to provide a report of the findings and recommendations on or before 30 June 2014. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hope the laws and policies to prevent such accidents in the future.

57 Efficiency + Renewables 59

Solar forecast: cloudy and dull

I nstallers have poor understanding of LED technology

Solar 2014

NOW in DIGITAL! Your copy of ECD Solutions is now available as an online eMag.

http://www.ECDsolutions.com.au/latest_issues

Cover: ÂŠ iStockphoto.com/Audioslave

findings help the government improve

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MERITS OF TYPE TESTING Electrical faults and power disruption can be catastrophic on life, property and enterprises. In this article, David Clark, LV Sales Manager, explains how type-tested switchboards could help ensure safe power distribution.

6 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

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well designed, implemented and maintained electrical system will provide years of safe reliable service. Various national and international standards are applied to products to ensure they are safe and perform reliably and consistently for the intended purpose. Low-voltage switchboards built and operated in Australia and New Zealand are subject to AS/NZS 3439.1: 2002 standard. Applying the tests nominated in the standard to the switchboards is to verify that the design complies with the standards relevant to the application. While the AS/NZS 3439.4:2002 standard details requirements for enclosures used for construction sites, another standard applies to busbar ducting systems and there are other standards for other applications. Switchgear used in the switchboard or a motor control centre assembly must apply to the relevant standards pertaining to that type of equipment. The standard allows assembly manufacturers scope for innovative design to meet clients’ requirements. The phrase “by agreement between manufacturer and user” is used throughout the standard, covering elements such as Form of Separation (covered later). Designers and specifiers need to have a thorough understanding of the standard and its association to the other standards and codes that apply across their project. Modern switchboard and switchgear designs are allowing for a smaller footprint, better operator protection with faster coordinated fault isolation and protection times, with optional access to a range of communication protocols for remote data acquisition, monitoring, control and security. Switchgear enclosures can be offered as a type-tested assembly (TTA) or partially type-tested assembly (PTTA). TTA is offered as conforming to the standard without deviation that would significantly affect performance. The PTTA is a combination of type-tested and non-type-tested arrangements, provided that the non-type-tested assemblies elements are derived, by calculation, from type-tested arrangements that comply with the tests. As a proof of calculation, original documents for type-tested

www.ECDsolutions.com.au 7 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

assembly design should be available for verification.1,3 Below are the type tests that are required for TTAs and PTTAs • Temperature rise • Dielectric properties • Short-circuit withstand strength • Effectiveness of the protective circuit • Clearances and creepage distances • Mechanical operation • Degree of protection The type tests will prove design capability - testing is undertaken when the product is being developed or being modified. The costs associated with type testing, ie, to produce the design and test sample of product, would usually be undertaken by the manufacturer. Testing can be carried out at various laboratories around the world. Test results are recorded and the manufacturer is issued a report and certificate that can be presented to the clients for inspection.1,3

Temperature rise testing Temperature rise testing is performed to provide assurance on the assembly of its operating current rating. According to the standard, the switchgear must not exceed the temperature rise (K) limits, based on an ambient temperature of up to 35°C. A temperature limit of 70° rise applies for terminals for external insulated conductors. Various elements, such as switchgear arrangement, ventilation systems and components, affect the design and test results. Variations in switchboard arrangements and components should be retested for compliance to the standard.1,3

Dielectric type testing Dielectric type testing confirms the level of voltage the assembly will withstand, for the main and auxiliary circuits. Main circuit of an assembly relates to the conductive parts included in a circuit that is intended to transmit electricity. The auxiliary circuit of an assembly includes all the conductive parts, other than the main circuit, intended to control, measure, signal, process data, etc. This testing is not required on parts that are type tested to the relevant parts standards for dielectric strength, and when through the installation process the unit’s compliance to the standard has been altered.1,3

Short-circuit testing Short-circuit testing is required to be conducted on all elements of an assembly.

MARCH/APRIL www.ECDsolutions.com.au 2014 - ECD SOLUTIONS 7

SWITCHBOARD TESTING

MAIN SWITCHBOARDS ARE FREQUENTLY INSTALLED ADJACENT OR CLOSE TO THE MAIN INCOMING SUPPLY POINT AND THEREFORE POTENTIALLY HIGH FAULT CURRENTS COULD OCCUR IN THE EVENT OF A FAILURE.

A short-circuit withstand test is required to verify the capability of the complete assembly, including busbars, all interconnections and, where appropriate, mounting arrangements. This is covered by shortcircuit tests on the incoming circuit(s) and busbar system and through fault tests on the outgoing circuits. Main switchboards are frequently installed adjacent or close to the main incoming supply point and therefore potentially high fault currents could occur in the event of a failure. Such applications may call for, eg, 50 kA for 3 seconds or 80 kA for 1 second. The dynamic and thermal stresses which such faults subject to an assembly can only really be verified through adequate testing. The magnetic effects on busbars, support systems and enclosures during such high fault will impose oscillating forces measured in tonnes. The thermal effects on the copper busbars themselves may reach a level which would anneal the copper, thereby rendering them unfit for further service. In the case of insulated busbars, thermal characteristics must be taken into account.1,3

Protective circuit The protective circuit with an assembly serves two functions: to ensure all exposed conductive parts are effectively bonded to the main earth terminal, providing personal protection; and provide a safe earth return for earth faults downstream. Doors and other exposed conductive parts which don’t have electrical equipment attached to them do not need additional bonding above their normal fixing means. For doors, panels, etc, with equipment attached rated above extra low voltage, it is recommended a protective conductor be attached.1,3

Clearance and creepage distances Clearance and creepage distances for devices within an assembly are determined in accordance with their own product standards. Minimum distances for other parts within the assembly are established from understanding the environment the

8 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

assembly is intended to be used in and the insulating materials being used. Elements that need to be considered in calculating clearance and creepage distances include the pollution level of the environment, impulse withstand, insulating materials and electric field within an assembly. For clearances and creepage distances, four levels of pollution are used to indicate the environment in the assembly. Pollution degree 1: No pollution or only dry, non-conductive pollution occurs. Pollution degree 2: Normally, only nonconductive pollution occurs. Occasionally, however, a temporary conductivity caused by condensation may be expected. Pollution degree 3: Conductive pollution occurs or dry, non-conductive pollution occurs, which becomes conductive due to condensation. Pollution degree 4: The pollution generates persistent conductivity caused, for instance, by conductive dust or by rain or snow. The standard pollution degree for industrial applications generally used is pollution degree 3. Minimum creepage distances can readily be determined from the standard and confirmed by measurement knowing the rated insulation voltage of the assembly, the pollution degree applicable to the environment it is intended to be installed in and the material group into which the insulating materials belong. Ribs, grooves, steps, etc, can be incorporated into a design as per reference to Annex F of the standard.1,3

Mechanical operation For mechanical operation tests, equipment incorporated in the assembly that can be proven to comply with its own respective standard requires no further testing. For other devices specifically designed for the assembly, a minimum test of 50 mechanical operations should be conducted by the assembly manufacturer and the mechanical efficiency should be maintained at the end of the test. Generally the assembly shall be

constructed only of materials capable of withstanding the mechanical, electrical and thermal stresses as well as the effects of humidity which are likely to be encountered in normal service. Protection against corrosion shall be ensured by the use of suitable materials or by the application of equivalent protective coatings to the exposed surface, taking account of the intended conditions of use and maintenance. All enclosures or partitions including locking means for doors, withdrawable parts etc, shall be of a mechanical strength sufficient to withstand the stresses which they may be subjected to in normal service.1,3 The equipment and circuits in the assembly shall be arranged to allow for their operation and maintenance, and at the same time ensure the necessary degree of safety.1,3

Degree of protection The degree of protection provided by any assembly against contact with live parts, and ingress of solid foreign bodies and liquid is indicated by the designation IP rating, in accordance with AS 1939. The general interpretation of the IP number is in terms of the external protection of an assembly. Any dust or moisture that is permitted to enter the enclosure shall have no harmful effect and, in normal service, personnel shall not be able to touch any dangerously live parts. In addition to determining the external protection, the IP code is also used to define the internal degree of protection under conditions necessitating the accessibility to internal parts by authorised personnel or for assemblies with movable or withdrawable parts. The degree of protection of an enclosed assembly shall be at least IP2X after installation, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Internal barriers and shields may be required to provide adequate touch protection.1,3 Routine tests are intended to detect faults in materials and workmanship. They are carried out on every assembly after its assembly or on each transport unit. Another

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SWITCHBOARD TESTING

it provides protection against contact with live parts belonging to the adjacent functional units and against foreign bodies from one unit of an assembly to an adjacent unit. Within an assembly it can be acceptable and even advantageous to use more than one form of separation. For example, within a Form 4 assembly it may be acceptable to have an MCB distribution board that may be regarded as one functional unit. Alternatively, the Form 4 assembly may include several circuits of different Form 4 types with different cable termination arrangements.1,3 Forms of separation: Form 1: No internal separation is provided. Form 2: Functional unit separate from the busbars Form 3: Functional units separate from other functional units.The ‘a’ designation denotes terminals are not separate from the busbar. The ‘b’ designation denotes terminals for external conductors are in a separate compartment to the functional unit. Form 4: Terminals for external conductors separate each other. The ‘a’ designation

denotes terminals within the functional unit and the ‘b’ designation denotes terminals for external conductors are in a separate compartment to the functional unit.1,2 Please note that this is an overview of some of the elements of switchboard testing requirements and is not offered as a technical guide to cover all requirements that go into a well-designed switchboard or motor control centre. Any design requirements should be discussed with switchgear engineers, such as NOJA Power, who are able to design and manufacture a compliant assembly to suit your specific requirements.

References 1. AS/NZS 3439.1:2002 2. Beama Guide to Forms of Separation; July 2011 3. Beama Guide to TTTA & PTTA Noja Power Switchgear Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W413

Solar 2014 8 May 2014 - 9 May 2014 – Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre Solar 2014 is presented by the Australian Solar Council and international partner AUPVSEE. It will deliver expert analysis and opinion and showcase the latest in solar, renewable energy and energy-efficiency technologies. www.solarexhibition.com.au

dia

Australian Energy Storage 8 May 2014 - 9 May 2014 - Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

Australian Energy Storage Conference and Exhibition is dedicated to on-grid and off-grid energy storage. The event will feature an expert two-day conference program, as well as showcasing the latest energy storage technology, market trends and financial analysis. It will be co-located with solar industry event Solar 2014. www.australianenergystorage.com.au

ARBS 2014

BICSI South Pacific 2014

20 May 2014 - 22 May 2014 – Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

12 May 2014 - 14 May 2014 – Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre The BICSI South Pacific 2014 ‘Knowledge Experience Opportunity’ Conference & Exhibition will focus on delivering these attributes to all delegates to help them further develop their professionalism in the ICT industry. www.bicsi.com.au/2014-conference

10 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

routine test at the place of installation is not required. Hence, routine tests on assemblies are undertaken at the manufacturer’s premises. These tests would usually form part of the manufacturer’s quality assurance program.1,3 Tests include: wiring and electrical operation, dielectric test, checking protective measures and insulation resistance.1,3 Forms of internal separation are subject to agreement between the manufacturer and user. The internal separation is not intended to guarantee the integrity of the assembly in the event of an arcing fault. An assembly is separated to facilitate access to a part of the assembly while other parts may remain energised and in service. Where it is impractical to totally isolate an assembly prior to carrying out work within an assembly, the degree of separation, and the way in which the separation is achieved within the assembly, should be considered in a risk assessment undertaken by the client. Separation does not generally improve the electrical performance of the assembly but

ARBS is Australia’s only international air conditioning, refrigeration and building services trade exhibition. The 2014 event offers a focus on innovation and emerging trends in the built environment, demonstrating how the different disciplines within the industry are collaborating to achieve excellence in sustainable buildings. www.arbs.com.au

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EMPLOYEE TURNOVER

AUSTRALIAN WORKPLACE THE MOST VOLATILE IN TERMS OF

EMPLOYEE TURNOVER Australians are the world’s leading job movers, reveals a recent survey by the Kelly Global Workforce Index (KGWI).

ustralia has the highest level of employee turnover of all the countries surveyed across Europe, Asia and the Americas, with 62% of employees reporting they have changed jobs in the last year, according to the survey. A further 26% have considered a new job, but have not made the move, while just 12% are not interested in changing employers. The international survey of more than 120,000 employees in 31 countries, including over 5500 Australians, examined the changing workplace and new models of engagement for businesses and their employees. According to the survey, only 9% of Australians moved jobs in order to improve their compensation or benefits, compared to 13% internationally and 18% in the Asia Pacific region. A further 17% moved to follow an opportunity for personal growth or development - significantly lower than the 29% for the Asia Pacific and 20% globally. Kelly Services Managing Director Australia and New Zealand Karen Colfer said Australian employers need to be aware that their employees are highly mobile, and retaining them is not simply a matter of more pay. “In order to retain and engage their workforce, Australian employers need to be looking very closely at the mix of benefits and conditions they are providing in their business. “For businesses who are finding the current economic environment challenging, this is actually quite a positive message, as retaining the best staff doesn’t necessarily add more cost, just a greater focus on creating the right environment,” said Colfer. Karen Colfer said in order to understand what attracted employees to new employment opportunities, Kelly asked whether they would recommend their employer and why. “Almost a third of Australian employees are very likely to recommend their employers to a friend or colleague, while around 11% wouldn’t. “The reasons they would recommend their employer are extremely interesting - highlighting the areas any business needs to focus on in order to become an employer of choice,” said Colfer.

12 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

Most influential in terms of employees’ recommendations include company culture and reputation (32%), opportunities for advancement (18%), work/life balance (16%), interesting or challenging work (16%) and a flexible work schedule (10%). “It’s telling that company culture and reputation features so strongly in employees’ recommendations, underscoring how important it is to focus on culture in order to attract and retain the best employees,” said Colfer. A key part of that culture, according to Colfer, is the style of management within the company. “63% of Australian employees say that their direct manager or supervisor has an impact on their level of satisfaction or engagement with their employer,” said Colfer. In order to improve their level of engagement, local employees say their managers should focus on training opportunities (55%), clarifying responsibilities, goals and objectives (43%), and providing more transparency with communications (33%). “It is often said that employees don’t leave jobs, they leave managers. “While local employees are so unsettled, managers who focus on improving communication and providing more opportunities for personal development will have a better chance of maximising their investment in people and skills,” said Colfer. Colfer has a word of advice for those about to make a move too - make sure you know what you are getting into. “Only about half of the employees we surveyed that had changed employers in the last year are happy in their new role. “The key reason they are unhappy in their new job is that the role in reality isn’t what they expected,” said Colfer. According to the KGWI, employees that were unhappy in their new roles highlighted that the work isn’t as interesting or challenging as they had expected (17%), a lack of direction from management (15%) and the job differed from what they expected (14%). “This underscores how important it is to get good professional advice when you are undertaking your job search and ensure you fully understand the role - and the culture - and what it offers,” said Colfer.

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2014 Conference & Exhibition May

12-14 Brisbane Exhibition & Convention Centre

The must attend

ICTConference

for ICT Infrastructure Professionals

Key speakers include: Caroline Viney CEO Grocon

Paul Budde

Leading Telecommunications & Management Consultant

Julian Nachmais

GM, New Developments (Southern), NBN Co

Nick Harris

Senior Analyst, Morgans Financial

Clare Murray

Registrar, Board of Professional Engineers Qld

Some of the exciting topics covered are: • The NBN • Data Centres • Intelligent Buildings

Platinum Sponsor

• Convergent Technology • Telecommunications Regulations

Attend all 3 days as a Delegate or take advantage of our free Industry Day Monday 12th May

For full details go to www.bicsi.com.au/2014-conference

TESTING

WHY IS

ACCREDITED TESTING IMPORTANT? Martin Garwood, Lab Manager

Most of the Australian testing laboratories are accredited but some do not have the accreditations and experience required. Some of these non-accredited labs attempt to exploit buyers’ lack of knowledge, often failing to disclose their reports lack the endorsement of NATA, A2LA, IANZ, CNAS or other accreditation bodies.

on-accredited testing is currently most prevalent in the environmental product testing industry - a structural change in the automotive industry has led component suppliers with in-house test facilities touting for any sort of work that will keep them afloat. These companies usually lack the experience/expertise of testing products and components for other industries. Using non-accredited labs for pre-scans or preliminary evaluations can prove disastrous if the test data provided by the labs is proven incorrect when the product is submitted to an accredited lab for conformance testing. Problems of non-accredited testing typically surface when some sort of formal product approval is required, either locally or for export purposes. This often results in retesting of the product, this time at an accredited lab. An example would be: CE mark compliance, where a company has produced a declaration of conformity to various standards. Although when asked, the test reports do not exist, were based on in-house testing or were from a non-accredited lab. The company may lose the funds invested in testing and the product may fail accredited testing, resulting in the redesign of a product that may have already been produced in high volume. Companies should not risk a product recall because the device wasn’t tested correctly to the required standard. Many industries and regulators, including the Australian electrical regulators and the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), routinely specify accredited reports to satisfy their compliance requirements. Larger companies or government departments that purchase electrical and electronic products often specify accredited test reports or Australian safety approval certificates so as to minimise the risk of non-compliance and product recalls.

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Accredited labs represent the highest level of testing competence available and are independently audited by an accreditation body that is a signatory of the International Laboratory Accreditation Committee (ILAC) Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA). Most established testing laboratories have been through the rigorous process of gaining accreditation to ISO Guide 17025, which is the relevant quality system standard for laboratories (similar to ISO 9001 for manufacturers). Accreditation is gained from independent third-party certifiers such as NATA or A2LA. Apart from overall lab accreditation, many regulators rely on accredited reports to specific standards. This involves an accredited lab developing test methods, having all relevant test equipment, ensuring the equipment is calibrated (often externally by an accredited calibration lab) and demonstrating technical competence and proficiency in testing to specific standards, which are then listed on a lab’s scope of accreditation. An example of an accredited scope can be found here. Below are the pros and cons of non-accredited testing: Pros: Testing should be cheaper as there would be no accreditation costs, no quality assurance overheads and possibly no calibration of equipment costs. Cons: No traceability or verified measurement uncertainty; reports usually not accepted by state or federal regulators or corporations; no international recognition; greater product liability; low level of confidence in the accuracy of the results; low standard of quality. Austest Laboratories Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W335

MARCH/APRIL 2014 - ECD SOLUTIONS 15

SMALL BUSINESS ADVICE

GET YOUR

MONEY’S WORTH Consultants can be a valuable business resource; however, when deciding to use a consultant, small business owners need to follow some simple rules or they could be paying a lot and not getting much in return.

ike most industries, the security industry uses consultants. Consultants assist business in marketing, management support, sales and many other areas including business reports and tender submissions. There are consultants for just about everything and it seems that everyone is a consultant these days. That is not a criticism of consultants, as they are, and can be, a valuable resource. A good consultant will know the industry and know what impacts the business. A good consultant will help business owners develop the right skills and strategies to grow and succeed. The wrong consultant will only be interested in money. A few questions that business owners need to ask themselves are: What do you want to do? Where do you want to be? Do you need a consultant? If you don’t know where you want to be, how will you know when you get there? Your consultant should help you develop your goals and a strategy for achieving them. Your consultant could be your industry association, with specialist advice at little or no cost to you. The best small business consultants have industry-specific expertise. Good consultants ask questions to find out what you know and what you will need to learn in order to achieve your goals. Having a good specialist consultant can be cheaper than employing people to do that work. Good consultants don’t know everything! But they know how to find the answers. If they’ve been in business a while, they should be able to produce references or client testimonials. It is

16 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

always better to choose someone referred to you by someone you trust. Good consultants will be happy for you to investigate their credentials and expect to prove their capabilities. Good consultants shouldn’t do it all for you. They show you what to do and how to do it and keep close until you are capable of doing it on your own. If you don’t feel totally comfortable with your consultant, don’t use them. They should be there when you need them. A good consultant will be happy to commit to writing what you have agreed. Include all of the items you think are relevant with terms favourable to both of you. Don’t be put off by the term contract. A contract is an agreement between the parties and although agreements can be verbal, a verbal agreement is not recommended. Confirm the arrangement in writing. This can take the form of a statement of work (SOW). The SOW should identify clear, attainable and measurable goals, a schedule of milestones, confirmation of rates, billing agreement and terms. The SOW should also include communication protocols. Although ideally it’s nice to see the ink on the paper, agreements can be exchanged and confirmed in a variety of ways including email. Remember, when you engage a consultant you are the client. You are entitled to receive the service and the agreed outcome. ASIAL Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W507

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ENERGY EFFICIENCY

UPDATED ASHRAE/IES ENERGY STANDARD GAINS

30% SAVINGS

The requirements of the 2013 revision of an energy standard recently published by ASHRAE and IES will result in buildings that could achieve 6-8% more efficiency than buildings built to the 2010 standard.

he ANSI/ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1-2013, Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings, provides minimum requirements for the energy-efficient design of buildings except low-rise residential buildings. Analysis from Pacific Northwest National Laboratories (PNNL) shows that the site and energy cost savings are 37.7 to 37.8%, respectively, by using the 2004 standard as baseline for the regulated loads only. For the whole building energy consumptions, national aggregated site energy savings are 29.5% and energy cost savings are 29%. On a nationally aggregated level, building-type energy savings range from 19.3% to 51.9% and energy-cost savings from 18.6 to 50.6%. These figures include energy use and cost from the whole building energy consumptions including plug and process loads. Extensive analysis work was performed by a team from PNNL. Sixteen different building prototypes were modelled in 17 different climate locations for a total of 272 building types and climate zone combinations. The energy reduction was achieved through 33 addenda related to major changes to requirements regarding building envelope, lighting, mechanical and the energy cost budget. The most significant changes are: Building envelope: Opaque elements and fenestration requirements have been revised to increase stringency while maintaining a reasonable level of cost-effectiveness. Opaque and fenestration assemblies in Tables 5.5-1 through 5.5-8 are revised in most climates. These changes include: • Criteria requiring double-glazed fenestration in many climates. • Minimum visible transmittance/solar heat gain coefficient (VT/ SHGC) ratio to enable good daylighting with minimum solar gain, while not restricting triple- and quadruple-glazing.

18 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

• Simplification of the skylighting criteria. Lighting: These changes include improvements to daylighting and daylighting controls, space-by-space lighting power density limits, thresholds for toplighting and revised controls requirements and format. Mechanical: Equipment efficiencies are increased for heat pumps, packaged terminal air conditioners, single package vertical heat pumps, air conditioners and evaporative condensers. Also, fan efficiency requirements are introduced for the first time. Additional provisions address commercial refrigeration equipment, improved controls on heat rejection and boiler equipment, requirements for expanded use of energy recovery, small motor efficiencies and fan power control and credits. Control revision requirements have been added to the standard such as direct digital controls in many applications. Another important change for the 2013 standard is the first alternate compliance path in Chapter 6. Section 6.6 was added to the 2010 edition to provide a location for alternate methods of compliance with the standard. The first such alternate path has been developed for computer room systems and was formulated with the assistance of ASHRAE technical committee 9.9, Mission Critical Facilities, Data Centers, Technology Spaces and Electronic Equipment. This path uses the power usage effectiveness (PUE) metric established by the datacom industry. This alternative efficiency path format provides a framework that could be considered for other energy using facets of buildings not easily covered in the prescriptive provisions of the standard. The standard is written in mandatory code language and offers code bodies the opportunity to make a significant improvement in the energy efficiency of new buildings, additions and major renovations.

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SUPPLY PROTECTION

SHORT-CIRCUIT FAULT CAUSES FIRE AND EQUIPMENT DAMAGE

The West Australian Department of Mines and Petroleum has reported a significant incident in which a short-circuit fault in a variable speed drive resulted in fire, arcing and equipment damage.

n an unidentified mine, four 1000 kW drive motors were being used to drive an overland conveyor. A 5.5 MVA transformer powered a 690 V motor control centre (MCC), which fed three variable speed drives (VSDs), each controlling a drive motor. A fourth motor was controlled separately. A short-circuit fault in one variable speed drive developed into a line-to-ground fault. The resulting thermal stress caused a fire and arc flash within the variable speed drive. The electrical installation - including cables, the 690 V motor control centre and three variable speed drives - was severely damaged. Electromechanical forces generated by the short-circuit fault ripped the cables from the cable ladders. Fortunately, no-one was in the vicinity. Simon Ridge, state mining engineer, identified a number of direct and indirect probable causes for the incident. Direct: • The variable speed drives were designed for a distribution system with a direct earth connection, at the neutral point of the supply transformer. The earth connection was separated from the neutral point and, therefore, the protection failed to operate. • The designer failed to identify hazards associated with site earthing and protection on the engineering drawings and documentation. Indirect: • Testing of electrical equipment was only carried out at factory level. Site earthing and protection verification was not carried out. • Site procedures and competencies were not adequate to ensure safe electrical installation. • The cables were not secured to the cable ladder using clamps rated for potential short circuit.

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Electrical installations at a mine site must comply with Part 5 of the Mines Safety and Inspection Regulations 1995. In particular, regulation 5.3 requires electrical installations and equipment at a mine to be designed, installed and tested in accordance with Australian Standard AS/NZS 3000 Electrical installations (known as the Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules). Ridge recommended a number of actions the mine take to achieve compliance: • Design electrical installations to meet fundamental electrical safety principles, including protection against overcurrent (Wiring Rules clause 1.5.9) and earth fault current (clause 1.5.10). • Provide engineering drawings and documentation with sufficient information to allow electrical equipment to be installed and maintained in a safe manner. • Verify the installation, as far as practicable, prior to it being placed in service or use (clause 1.8). • Develop, implement and maintain competency-based training systems so workers are aware of the critical tasks involved with verification of the electrical installation. Under regulations 6.3, 6.4 and 6.5 of the Mines Safety and Inspection Regulations 1995, a designer is required to: • Identify hazards associated with the plant and assess the risks. • Consider whether the risk of exposure can be reduced. • Provide sufficient information for the plant to be manufactured in accordance with the design specifications. • Provide sufficient information relating to installation, operation and maintenance of the plant.

MARCH/APRIL 2014 - ECD SOLUTIONS 21

hen Parramatta Council commissioned an energy audit, it found that three of its four multilevel car parks were in the council’s top 10 energy-using sites. Council commissioned electrical contractors Argyle Electrical to help eliminate this lighting waste. Traditional fluorescent lighting with simple on/off switches were the principal source of the car parks’ energy consumption, and lights were frequently left on after closure. At one car park, the energy-efficiency activities included installing a C-Bus control system with motion and light sensors, which delivered 33% energy savings without any change of lights. At another car park, a combination of control systems, sensors and T8 fluorescent lights was replaced with T5s, delivering over 50% lighting energy savings. In the council administration building fire stair, the emergency lighting consisted of one T8 and one T5, as twin T5s could not operate as emergency lighting. Electrical contractor Argyle Electrical Contractors Pty Ltd proposed the Chamaeleon LED light for the car parks during the lighting upgrade. Council had previously been notified of the light by its Australian manufacturer, Enlighten Australia, and analysed the project payback calculations before adding the lights to the scope of works. Single ceiling-mounted 10-chip emergency Chamaeleon lights were installed in the fire stairs, replacing twin 36 W T8 fluorescent tube fittings, operating 24/7 without controls. In total, 173 lights were installed across the four car parks in the car park fire stair areas. The overall project lighting energy savings were 88%, representing a 4.1-year payback. The payback figure calculation was inclusive of

ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION

product supply and installation costs, and exclusive of the maintenance savings and the value of potential Energy Savings Certificates generated by the project. Council intends to apply for the creation of the energyefficiency certificates under the NSW Government, which will deliver a further financial rebate, post-sale. The energy savings are delivered by the Chamaeleon light’s dual-circuit design. This enables the light to operate on a standby mode, drawing 7-9 W, while the area is unoccupied, increasing to full light output (28-32 W) once a presence is detected via an in-built microwave occupancy sensor. The Chamaeleon’s adjustable in-built microwave sensor settings allow for flexibility in timing and proximity to suit the area of use. Council’s Lord Mayor, Councillor John Chedid, said, “We were very happy with the energy-savings results of the lighting upgrade. On the strength of the car park lighting upgrade results, we have since installed Chamaeleon lights in all four multilevel car parks, our main administration building and the Parramatta Library.” Peter Sparke from Argyle Electrical noted, “Having installed the Chamaeleon light in a neighbouring property and being conscious of council’s energy-savings commitment, I coordinated a site visit with council’s sustainability and asset managers. Once the council’s officers had seen the Chamaeleon fittings operating and investigated the power saving and maintenance advantage, the decision was made to proceed.” © stock.xchng/profile/horizonaus

CASE STUDY

Multilevel car park light retrofit 'saves' council

enLighten Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W538

Connectors with 1.27 mm contact pitch HARTING’s har-flex product family connectors with 1.27 mm contact pitch expand the design options for industrial devices. The flexibility and performance requirements for controllers and drivers have grown rapidly in recent years. At the same time, miniaturisation is advancing unabated and har-flex accommodates both trends. Straight and angled connectors are available as PCB models. Together with the connectors for flat ribbon connection, PCBs can be combined into complex systems suitably adapted to their surroundings. All har-flex connectors are available with from 6 to 100 contacts, in increments of two. In addition to the connectors for flat ribbon connection, the company also offers assembled cables. The compact but rugged design of har-flex is also said to guarantee reliable operation under adverse conditions. Two large holders ensure that the connectors are firmly held in place after the soldering. A low-wear insertion and withdrawal procedure is achieved by a very smooth contact point between the male and female contacts. This is the result of special follow-up treatment during the punching process which HARTING applies based on its extensive experience with punching technology. HARTING Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/U009

22 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

www.ECDsolutions.com.au

ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION

Copper test solution Available to rent, the DSX-5000 CableAnalyser copper test solution enables testing and certification of twisted pair cabling for up to 10 Gb Ethernet deployments. It will certify shielded and unshielded structured cabling systems from Category 3, to 6A and Class C, to FA at Level V accuracy. Features include: high-speed testing, including a 9 s Category 6 autotest; built-in Alien Crosstalk testing capability, PLA004 (Cat 6A/Class EA), CHA004 (Cat 6A/Class EA) adapters included; ProjX management system for tracking complex jobs; Taptive user interface - simplified testing protocols across multiple media types; LinkWare management software for test analysis and professional test reports; dedicated diagnostics. TechRentals offer a set-up and download service for this product. TechRentals Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W463

Longer-life LED Excessive heat generation is one of the main reasons why light-emitting diodes fail. With the Oslon Square, Osram Opto Semiconductors presents an LED that withstands high ambient temperatures particularly well. To ensure that the colours of several LEDs in a luminaire remain uniform even at higher temperatures, they are measured and binned at 85째C, a temperature that comes very close to that encountered in lighting applications within buildings, in everything from spotlights to retrofit light sources. Osram has optimised the heat dissipation of the Oslon Square to allow an increase in the junction temperature so that the LED can reach a lifetime of considerably more than 50,000 h even at high temperatures of up to 135째C in the LED. Measuring and binning at operating temperatures of 85째C is of great significance to customers who further process the light-emitting diodes into luminaires. They receive precise information on parameters such as luminous flux or colour stability, which they need to optimally define the properties of their products. Furthermore, the improved temperature behaviour leads to higher luminous efficacy in the application. Thanks to the higher permitted junction temperatures, fewer large heat sinks are required, and this simplifies the design of lamps and luminaires, because they can be smaller and therefore less costly. Osram Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W250

24 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

www.ECDsolutions.com.au

Beautifully simple Home distribution

Beautifully simple, the complete system. At Hager, we believe that every home owner deserves to have a high quality, safe and great looking distribution system in their home - and the installation of the system should be simple and beneficial to all installing contractors. The golf system offers exactly that. From the golfâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award winning aesthetics on the outside, to our installer friendly onekonekt protection device range, home networking or a combination of both, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the most flexible, comprehensive and beautifully simple solution on the market today.

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TESTING POWER CABLES Peter Herpertz - Product manager, Power, SebaKMT Germany

Power cables need to be tested to determine the condition of the cable and to locate faults. This article provides an overview of a systematic testing approach and fault classification.

he objective of testing the cable condition is typically to check the quality of cable before installing it, or to detect and remedy potential defects in the cable, which might otherwise jeopardise reliable operation. When testing a cable for potential defects, a common technique is to generate flashovers at the sites of the defects, which can then be located using the standard fault location techniques mentioned later. Depending on the type of cable insulation and the type of test object (cable or accessory), the following types of test voltage should be used: paper insulated lead-covered cable (PILC) - DC voltage, AC voltage 50/60 Hz, VLF (0.1 Hz); PE/XLPE cable - AC voltage 50/60 Hz, VLF (0.1 Hz); components (joints, terminations, etc) - DC voltage, AC voltage 50/60 Hz. Alternatively, the cable can be tested non-destructively using dielectric diagnosis and partial discharge techniques. The first diagnostic technology is the Tan Delta technology, based on 0.1 Hz VLF voltage for most insulation materials. In cables with PE and XLPE insulation, dielectric diagnosis based on IRC (isothermal relaxation current) analysis makes it possible to determine how much the cable has aged, while with PILC cables, RVM (return voltage measurement) analysis allows the moisture content of the dielectric to be accurately assessed. Partial discharge measurement is used for recording, locating and evaluating partial discharges

26 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

in the insulation and fittings of medium-voltage cables, and can reveal a wide range of actual and potential defects.

Cable fault location

The steps needed for determining cable fault locations can be divided into five main categories: fault classification - identifying the type of fault; pre-location - determining the distance to the fault; route tracing - determining the route of the cable; pinpointing - determining the exact position of the fault; cable identification - determining which of several cables is faulty. The main diagram shows the outline procedure for identifying and locating cable faults. Measuring techniques for cable fault location: Basic tests: DC test to determine flashover voltage; sheath fault test; VLF test to determine flashover voltage. Pre-location: TDR pulse reflection measurements; ARM (Arc Reflection Method); ARM plus; ARM power burning; decay-plus (ARM - igniting the fault with using a DC generator); decay (travelling wave method, oscillation method); impulse current decoupling (ICE); three-phase impulse current decoupling (ICE); ICE plus (low-voltage networks only); high-voltage bridge method (pre-locating sheath faults); voltage-drop method (pre-locating sheath faults). Fault conversion: Burning; power burning.

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TESTING AND FAULT CLASSIFICATION

Procedure for identifying and locating cable faults.

Route tracing: Line location; line routing. Pinpointing: Audio frequency generator (twist field and minimum turbidity/ distortion methods); surge wave discharges (acoustic field method, acoustic pinpointing); sheath fault pinpointing. Cable and phase identification: Phase identification on grounded systems, phase identification and phase determination on live systems.

Fault classification The first step in locating a cable fault must be very thorough. Accurate plans of the cable route, and knowledge of the cable network and of any civil engineering work that may affect it can often provide the first clues to the location of the fault and also help to guard against misinterpretation of test results. Insulation testing and resistance measurements can then supply information about the characteristics of the fault. After these measurements have been made, a reflection measurement device (time domain reflectometer - TDR) is used to determine the cable length and to detect the presence of joints/splices and other changes in impedance. It is good practice and important always to compare the results from faulty conductors with the results from good conductors. The more information that is gathered during these preliminary tests, the easier and more reliable will be the overall fault location process.

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Insulation testing By measuring the insulation resistance between the conductors and the cable shield (phase-to-phase and phase-to-shield), the insulation test indicates the type of fault. The results of the insulation test are important in deciding how to proceed with the fault location process. They can be classified as follows: no fault (no deviation between the resistance values); high-resistance (flashing); cable fault (measurements in the kilohm or megohm range); low-resistance fault (contact between conductors or between conductors and shield/screen). Insulation test sets with an analog display have proved to be particularly suitable for cable testing as they make it easy to see; for example, anomalies during charging which can indicate faults due to the presence of moisture. With very high resistance faults, DC must be used to establish the breakdown voltage of the cable fault. Measuring the resistance of a fault When choosing which pre-location method to use, it is important to have accurate knowledge about the resistance and the phase relation of the fault. The results of the resistance and distance measurements should be carefully recorded. With multiple faults, the faults are often in parallel with each other. A drawing often helps with evaluation. In low-voltage cable networks employing only plastic-insulated cables without shielding or armouring, it is recommended that the PEN conductor is disconnected on both ends and then a check carried out to see if there are any faults indicated by excessive leakage current due to contact with the earth. Overview measurements with a TDR The following overview measurements should be carried out with a time domain reflectometer (TDR): comparative measurement measured length compared with length on cable plan; joint/splice calibration; comparison of faulty and fault-free conductors; storage of reflectograms for future comparison. Fault classification results Short circuit - 0Â ÎŠ A short circuit is a direct metallic connection between conductors, indicating that the conductors are touching one another or have

MARCH/APRIL 2014 - ECD SOLUTIONS 27

TESTING AND FAULT CLASSIFICATION

fused together. This means that acoustic pinpointing techniques will fail. Because of the direct metallic contact, no acoustic noise will be produced at the fault. On the other hand, a short circuit can be very easily seen using classic TDR reflection measurements. Nevertheless, an attempt should be made to change the fault to higher resistance, using a high energy surge wave generator, so that acoustic pinpointing can be undertaken. Low-resistance fault greater than 0 Ω Low-resistance faults make it impossible to charge the cable. These faults are, however, visible with almost any surge wave generator-based, high-voltage pre-location or pinpointing method. Very high resistance faults The resistance of many of these faults is so high that ignition is not possible using the normal voltage of a surge wave generator. These faults can be charged up to their flashover (breakdown) voltage. The entire energy stored in the cable capacitance is discharged via the fault. Decay and decay-plus pre-location methods can be used, as well as acoustic pinpointing. Faults due to contact with earth Pre-location can be carried out using the bridge method and/or the voltage drop method.

Which faults can be seen with a reflectometer?

series resistive faults; joint/splices; strong reflections caused by impedance changes; damaged areas and pressure points; water ingress; changes in cross-section; contact problems caused by corrosion. These faults are not visible: • Faults with resistance many times the impedance of the cable. In theory, these faults should be visible, but the change in the TDR trace is so small that it gets lost in the normal noise or disappears due to attenuation. With modern cables and correctly fitted joints/splices, the changes in impedance can be so small that they are not visible, especially in telecom cables. • Faults that normally have a near infinite resistance, such as faults that behave like spark gaps. These faults are ignited by applying a DC or VLF voltage. The breakdown voltage depends on the distance between the conductors. • Where a cable of unknown length has been severed, it is possible to confuse the end of the cable with the point at which it has been severed. When there is doubt, short-circuiting the far end of the cable will quickly confirm whether this type of fault is present. In all cases, depending on the type of fault, the reflections can sometimes be so small that they are inconspicuous and, therefore, undetectable.

The faults that can be seen with a reflectometer are: all impedance changes below the cable impedance - for example, parallel and

Megger Limited Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W344

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AC272922_Video WI FI_3rdP_ECD_ELEC SOLUTIONS

ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION

Power protection The Eaton 5E UPS range of power protection products is designed for workstations, business telephony, routers and point-of-sale equipment. Made for the Australian and New

new WiFi compatible

video iborescope

Zealand outlets, the 5E provides effective power protection even in disturbed electrical environments. Voltage fluctuations are automatically corrected using an AVR device (booster and fader) without requiring the batteries. Ready-for-use functionality is accentuated by the device’s permanent battery charging even if the UPS is turned off at the on/off button. The device can also be used as a portable AC power source thanks to its cold start feature. The compact form factor allows the 5E to be easily integrated into environments with space constraints. An HID-compliant USB port provides for automatic integration with common operating systems such as Windows, Mac OS and Linux. The 5E is also compatible with Eaton UPS Companion power management software. The 650 and 850 VA models have no fan and as a result are suitable for deployment at an operator’s workstation where fan noise can be an issue. Features include: fully compliant and certified to AS/NZS safety and EMC standards; five models available ranging from 650 VA/360 W too 2000 VA/1200 W. Eaton Industries Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W321

Capture live images from your iBorescope and display it viaWiFi on your iPhone, iPad, SmartPhone orTablet (running Android OS 2.2 or later).The latest technology at its very best! Video iBorescope 3003WX

Conduit saddles Anchorage Group has developed a complete range of conduit clamps, cable clips and saddles for all types of conduits and cables. The clamps and guides are manufactured from a variety of materials to suit most applications. Anchorage Pipe Supports produce copper saddles, stainless steel saddles and galvanised saddles of varying thicknesses for light duty through to extreme environments. The conduit saddles and cable brackets are available in single- and double-saddle configurations. All clamps can be supplied with or without base plates and fasteners. The pipe clamp series includes various standard sizes of double bolt-hole saddle clamps. As a division of Swift Metal Services, Anchorage Group has a comprehensive range of high-technology bending, pressing and stamping equipment to custom manufacture pipe saddles and conduit clamps in most sizes and variations. Custom-sized clamps and pipe guides are produced principally in Swift Metal Services’ NSW production facility, to assist Australian builders, electricians and power contractors to meet specific site requirements or installation constraints. A further advantage of manufacturing conduit saddles and pipe guides in Australia is short lead times with consistent quality and repeatability. SWIFT Metal Services Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W364

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who else would you trust! Ampere Electrical Manufacturing Co. Pty. Ltd. 168-176 High Street, Prahran,VIC 3181 Tel (03) 9510 4333, 9510 2428 Fax (03) 9510 5940 Toll Free 1800 AMPERE (1800 267 373) www.ampere.com.au

MARCH/APRIL 2014 - ECD SOLUTIONS 29

CASE STUDY

Thermal imaging cameras help identify defects in solar cells

hen solar energy panels threaten to fail, defects will usually generate heat. To detect and identify problems with photovoltaic cells, junction boxes and grid network, Carlill Energy has successfully adopted the use of thermal imaging cameras. India-based Carlill Energy Limited has already installed a solar plant capacity of 1.5 MW across the state of Punjab. The company’s latest plant was commissioned in February 2012 in Muktsar (Eastern Punjab), in conformance with the Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) directives. The plant is said to have a high performance ratio (PR) value among the many different solar power plants in the state of Punjab. After having an issue with a failed diode box in the recent past, Carlill Energy started to look out for a solution that was able to provide an advance warning. Based on such a warning, the company was hoping to be able to take precautionary measures and prevent incidents with failed diode boxes from happening again. After thorough research of the marketplace and based on industry feedback, the company decided to go for a Flir thermal imaging camera. Flir’s distributor Industrial Agencies, based in Chandigarh, India, provided Carlill Energy with a Flir i7 thermal camera. Industrial Agencies also took care of training of the Carlill Energy maintenance staff. During the training, three major hot spots in junction boxes were observed. According to the maintenance staff, the failure of these connections could have hampered the plant’s power generation as well as the company’s PR. The management team of Carlill Energy was enthusiastic about the performance of the Flir i7 camera: “We should have bought this equipment last year when we were actually commissioning this plant.” Today, the company uses three Flir i7 cameras. Next to the identification of issues with diode boxes, Carlill Energy is also using the camera for the identification of issues with PV cells and the grid network connections/terminations. According to Satnam Singh, Maintenance Manager at Carlill Energy, the thermal imager will help him identify problematic areas

and, as a result, ensure flawless supply of electricity to the grid. In addition, this will increase the overall return on investment of the company for this plant. The company also uses the camera for the identification of issues with PV cells and the grid network connections/terminations. The camera produces instant, point-and-shoot JPEG thermal imagery that carries all required temperature data and can be stored internally or externally, sent and analysed. The unit weighs 365 g and is easy to store in a belt pouch. The cameras withstand a 2 m drop, are water splashproof and IP43-rated. Carlill Energy also opted for the Flir Tools software, which has been designed to quickly import, edit and analyse images, and turn them into convincing, professional PDF inspection reports, ready to print or email, so users can get a ‘yes for repairs’ fast. FLIR Systems Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V734

ProTag PrimeTest Elite Australia’s Most Advanced Test & Tag System

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30 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

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EMONA www.ECDsolutions.com.au

ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION

Residual voltage device A ‘good/low impedance earth’ may be compromised by many factors including corrosion, hot joints and ageing installations but the most variable and overlooked factor is the ground itself. Soil types such as sandy/rocky environments, concrete and bitumen pose a real problem making a low-impedance environment difficult, and at worst impossible, to achieve. Add in moisture and environmental changes and the problem is exacerbated. Unearthed or IT systems are also problematic for RCDs due to lack of an earth-path and the 1st and 2nd fault scenario. Although widely regarded as the safest earthing system, they are not widely used as a result. The Safe Electrical Technology RVD-E is designed to accompany any RCD/RCBO and provide an additional layer of electrical protection. The company says the device enables enhanced electrical protection within the TN(MEN), TT earthed systems and uniquely IT unearthed systems. Importantly, according to the company, RVD-E enables protection against the IT non-dangerous 1st fault condition, allowing the ‘bird on the wire’ concept to become a reality, effectively removing the human from becoming part of the electrical circuit. The RVD-E is an electrically connected ‘add-on’ device which detects a voltage leakage of 43 V to frame and when sensed, creates a 33 mA imbalance across the accompanying RCD/ RCBO, ensuring simple operation. The RVD is complementary to the RCD in providing protection in high-impedance/compromised earth environments, where the RCD operates in low-impedance earth environments. This provides significant benefits and dovetails well to the ALARP approach to risk management. Safe Electrical Technology Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W355

www.ECDsolutions.com.au

MARCH/APRIL 2014 - ECD SOLUTIONS 31

ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION

Thermal imager The testo 870-1 thermal imager is designed

Optical fibre management Warren and Brown’s Australian designed and manufactured ODF and optical fibre patch panels provide efficient, high-density solutions in any optical fibre network. Various mounting options are available with the patch panels, which mean they can be front, rear or mid mounted depending on the requirements. Design and manufacturing facilities in Melbourne provide the flexibility of large-scale production as well as customised solutions for any telecom exchange or data centre cabling requirement.The ability to customise ODFs and patch panels allows for great flexibility in managing and patching solutions that are specific to each optical fibre network. As part of a streamlined and controlled manufacturing process, only high-quality optical fibre components are used in production and are all individually inspected and tested to ensure maximum reliability. Warren & Brown Technologies Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W356

to detect leakages, localise cold bridges or visualise overheated connections. The imager has been specially developed for electrical contractors, heating constructors, service engineers, facility managers, painter/ decorators and plasterers. It features a large display, high-quality detector, wide field of view and uncomplicated operation. Other features include: infrared resolution 160 x 120 pixels - with 19,200 temperature measurement points, the measurement objects are detected in good quality, clearly and precisely; thermal sensitivity <100 mK helps identify even small temperature differences; fixed-focus 34° lens quickly records a large image section, allowing a suitable overview of the temperature distribution of the measurement object; critical temperature states are directly displayed using the automatic hot-cold-spot recognition; SuperResolution technology at 320 x 240 pixels is said to improve the resolution of the thermal images by four times. Testo Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W167

32 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

www.ECDsolutions.com.au

ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION

Test and tag system The Seaward ProTag Elite System is an advanced testing and tagging and asset inspection management system. It tests portable appliances and RCDs, records asset photographs and inspections, prints Elite UV and harsh environment resistant test tags and downloads all test results, asset photos and inspections to management software. The system consists of the Seaward Primetest Elite appliance and RCD tester, ProTag Elite test tag printer, barcode scanner and PATGuard Elite 3 asset management software. The system carries out all of the tests required under AS/NZS3760 for appliances and leads, and carries out 30 mA RCD tests. The PrimeTest Elite also operates as a handheld asset inspection system by allowing asset photographs to be taken using the in-built camera with flash and users can record any type of test, inspection or risk assessment with their own user-defined inspection routines. This eliminates the need for carrying around a separate tablet or laptop for recording the results of non-electrical inspections and risk assessments. Other features include: compact QWERTY keypad; high-definition colour display; USB for data upload/download; in-built isolation transformer; onboard memory that stores 50,000 assets and 2000 asset photographs. The system is fully protected by the impact-resistant transit case supplied as part of the kit. Each component in the Optima System is battery powered, providing maximum portability. Emona Instruments Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V621

Distributed diagnostics Field Diagnostics Module (FDM) from Phoenix Contact. Analyze problems with your bus in the environment that is affecting it the most. Our Field Diagnostics Module for Foundation Fieldbus features: • Installation in the field using our innovative modular concept • Industry standard diagnostics • Single channel flexibility • Device management using DD, EDDL and DTM To learn more visit www.phoenixcontact.net/processfieldbus

1300 786 411 | phoenixcontact.com.au 13-0549DiagnosticsAd.indd 1

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3/28/2013 8:39:12 AM

MARCH/APRIL 2014 - ECD SOLUTIONS 33

elegance in Down & Track Lightings with AdvanceQuez AvL LED Lamps

Better industry representation for electrical contractors © iStockphoto.com/Monkey Business Images

Malcolm Richards, CEO

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No piercing glow of ceramic metal halides No unshapely CFL tubes Just a smooth single diffused glow Deeply recessed in a brilliant reflector Powered by Philip LED modules & drivers 50,000 hours

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34 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

Over the past six years, Master Electricians Australia (MEA) has continued to grow its strengths not only as a membership association for electrical contracting businesses and their workers, but as a body representing the electrical industry and wider sectors. Following feedback from members, MEA has expanded with a new South Australian office and South Australia/ Northern Territory Manager. Greg Bryant joins the MEA South Australian team in our new Torrensville office. As an electrician himself, Greg Bryant comes from a rich industry history having previously worked in the offices of Clipsal Schneider Electric and Gerard Lighting. This expansion allows MEA to provide more comprehensive and all-rounded support for our South Australian and Northern Territory members, as well as a stronger voice of representation in these areas. Stay tuned for details of the official opening of our brand new SA office. MEA has also appointed a new state manager for Victoria and Tasmania, after having farewelled past Victorian state manager Carl Rankin following a successful two and a half years with MEA. Simon Tengende joins the MEA team having been a general manager at the Victorian Employers Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He has also run the Department of Planning and Community Developments Young People Program across Victoria and will add a wealth of experience to the work that MEA does. Our membership has seen solid growth in recent years despite some difficult economic conditions for many contractors. MEA has some great initiatives planned for this year and it will indeed be an exciting time for our industry. www.masterelectricians.com.au

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ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION

Wireless switches Honeywellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Limitless switches combine the best of Microswitch heavy-duty limit switches with the latest wireless technology. Wirelessenabled limit switches can be used for position sensing and presence/ absence detection for an endless number of applications. The switches can potentially network up to 16 switches, provide more uptime with less maintenance and reduce work disruptions. They connect using 802.15.4 RF 2.4 GHz standard radio bands and provide more diagnostics, allowing the user to become aware of battery health and signal strength. element14 Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W307

Intelligent surge protection for data interfaces The Plugtrab PT-IQ-5-HF surge protection introduces intelligent arresters for data interfaces. The switching options are characterised by the safe transmission of higher data rates and are therefore suitable for the protection of bus systems such as Profibus, RS485, RS422, Interbus, Canbus or Modbus. The product family offers continued monitoring of the voltage-limiting components of a protective circuit. Preliminary damage due to high-energy surge voltages are immediately recognised and indicated. A yellow status signal indicates that the performance limit has been reached as a result of frequent surge voltages. At this time, the arresters are still functional and the system is still protected. Replacing the component at that point prevents unnecessary servicing. An overload of the protective devices is indicated with a red signal. This also means that the system is no longer protected. Phoenix Contact Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V903

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MARCH/APRIL 2014 - ECD SOLUTIONS 35

ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION

Enclosures Hager’s golf enclosure range

OTDR

along with the onekonekt system

Available to rent, the Anritsu MT9083A Access

of modular protection devices

Master is a quad wavelength, optical time domain

provides a solution that makes

reflectometer that manages 850/1300 nm (29/28

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dB) for multimode fibre and 1310/1550 (39/37.5

The range is available in flush

dB) for singlemode fibre. The singlemode port

or surface mounting and with a

is SC/APC. Intelligent analysis software identifies

choice of Q Link terminals and 63

problem splices, connectors and even macrobends.

A or 100 A brass links.

Tasks such as fault finding in optical fibres,

The onekonekt range of residential

QoS evaluation, as well as installation and trouble-

protection devices connects to the

shooting for FTTx, CATV, LAN, Access and Metro

same busbar.

networks, can all be handled with just one unit.

This range provides the option to be installed as a stand-alone home

Features include: full 1 x 64 PON support, up

network hub or combined with the mains distribution golf enclosure by

to 39 dB; store up to 1000 traces internally (many

utilising Hager’s patented double slider.

more using USB); drag-and-drop results to PC;

Hager Electro Pty Ltd

graphical summary and PDF reporting; ready to

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W519

test in about 15 s. TechRentals offers a set-up and download service for this product. TechRentals

Thermal imager

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W164

The FLIR ONE thermal imager is compatible with the iPhone5 and 5s and fits on the phone like a protective case. Once mounted, the device displays a live thermal image of the world right on the phone’s screen. Originally developed for military night vision, this technology can be used for security, safety, home improvement and outdoor recreation applications. The tool can be used to locate wall studs and ceiling joints and can be used to spot relative temperature differences at doors and windows to optimise energy efficiency. The imager houses its own battery source that can power the device for 2 h of continuous use. FLIR Systems Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W083

Intrinsically Safe Digital Multimeter Model MX 57EX TRMS The Model MX57EX TRMS is designed for use in dangerous or explosive atmospheres. This meter is considered as a passive device without inductive or capacitive issues that are problematic in dangerous or explosive environments.

• • • •

36 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

Safety Rating: IEC 61010-1: 2001 Bargraph with zoom (x5) and center zero Rugged Design - IP67 rating Agency Approval: IECEx LC107:0010 X, LCIE 02 ATEX 6005 X, II 2 G D or I M2, Ex ib I, Ex ib IIC T5 or T4 or T3 , Ex ibD 21 T

Exclusively Sold in Australia by Pacific Test Equipment Phone: +61 2 9659 2300 sales@pacifictest.com.au

www.ECDsolutions.com.au

COMMS + DATA

Experience new Warren and Brown Integrated Cabling Solutions in an exciting new virtual world www.warrenandbrown.com.au

DATA CENTRE COOLING

KEEP IT COOL Data centres struggle with airflow obstructions due to outdated cabling. This article looks at the cooling and cabling problems from the ground up.

ata centres that have not practised cable abatement or removal of old cabling face serious challenges. Old cables not only cause performance problems but they can also wreak havoc on cooling. Under a raised floor, cabling should be run in the hot aisles so it doesn’t obstruct airflow to perforated tiles. The cabling basket trays can act as baffles and help channel the cold air into the cold aisles. The pathways and spaces should be properly sized, accommodating growth, so that the areas don’t run amok. Change management is also important - old abandoned cables should be removed if they are no longer needed for current or future applications. Attention must be paid to the direction of pathways and other obstructions under the floor. Cables should not run perpendicular to and in front of the air handler discharge vents blocking the air. If CRAC/CRAH units are on the perimeter of the room, the highest density should be at the centre of the room. Data centres are evolving in a rather cyclical manner. When data centres (the original computer rooms) were first built, computing services were provided via a mainframe (virtualised) environment. End users’ dumb terminals were connected via point to point with coax or bus cabling using twinax. Enter the PC and Intel based server platforms, and new connections were needed. We have gone through several generations of possible cabling choices: coax (thicknet, thinnet), category 3, 4, 5, 5e, 6. Now, the recommended 10 gigabit-capable copper choices for a data centre are category 6A, 7 and 7A channels, OM3 grade fibre for multimode capable

www.ECDsolutions.com.au

electronics and singlemode fibre for longer range electronics. In some data centres, samples of each of these systems can still be found under the raised floor or in overhead pathways, many of which originally were point-to-point. Today, however, the ‘from’ point and ‘to’ point are a mystery, making cable abatement (removal of abandoned cable) problematic at best. This is probably the number one cause of cable spaghetti. Compounding this problem was a lack of naming conventions. If the cables were labelled at both ends, the labelling may not make sense anymore. For instance, a cable may be labelled “Unix Row, Cabinet 1”. Years later, the Unix row may have been replaced and new personnel may not know where the Unix row was. This is why it is important to following the structured cabling standards. These sites can be remediated by running new trunk assemblies or installing cables of a new colour during an upgrade. This would make it easier to identify what can be removed when the equipment is up and running on the upgraded system. It is also important to ensure there is proper airflow within the cabinets. One issue with 600 m wide cabinets is that there is not much room for cable plant, especially when loaded with servers or switches. One way to get the cabling away from equipment is to use wider cabinets. New cabinets have zero U cabling zones (no cabling in the horizontal space) that leverage vertical space between cabinets and help address congestion problems. Zero-U patch panels put patching ports right beside equipment ports reducing the need for more expensive, longer cords. Shorter cords

MARCH/APRIL 2014 - ECD SOLUTIONS 39

DATA CENTRE COOLING

with less cable slack improve airflow and aesthetics, and simplify channel tracing. The other cable management solution developed by server manufacturers is swing arms. Swing arms route cable horizontally across the equipment, blocking exhaust fans and spaces critical to proper hot aisle/cold aisle airflow. And they don’t always stay intact after moves, additions and changes, cluttering the back of cabinets with swing arms and hanging cables. Wider cabinets and better cable management (both vertically and horizontally) will improve flow management. Cables placed above the cabinet can also cause problems. Overhead systems must not be run over hot aisles as they will act as a ceiling for hot air. The solution, in this case, is to run the cabling over the cold aisles in an overhead scenario. Blanking panels and brush guard panels also help in improving thermal efficiency by preventing airflow through vacant rackmount spaces within enclosures. By isolating the front of the cabinet, these panels keep the cold air directed at the equipment where it is needed. Blanking panels help to prevent recirculation of hot air to improve a facility’s cooling effectiveness. These panels also fill empty rackmount space to conceal openings or reserve the positions for future use. Brush guard panels provide the added benefit of allowing cables to pass through the front and rear of a rack or cabinet while still providing thermal protection to maintain isolation. Cabling is typically run to the rear of server cabinets and that is not where you want the cold air to go. It is necessary to control

the static pressure under the floor to assure that cold air enters the room only where needed through tile perforations and/or grills. The key to fixing air problems is to manage your pathways and spaces wherever they are. System and change management after installation can also help with airflow issues. Removing unwanted cables can help avoid potential problems. It is important to adhere to structured cabling standards within the data centre so that each channel is properly labelled with from and to points so the staff know what can be removed, or re-used. Whenever a new server or switch is placed into use or decommissioned, someone should look at the adjoining cable ports and determine if the port can be re-used or removed. This is particularly true with point-to-point connections - they are nothing but long patch cords. When you see bundles of cables and data centre messes, typically point-to-point cables are the culprit, along with patch cords or jumpers that have outlived their usefulness. Some companies choose to buy custom patch cord and jumper lengths to eliminate slack in their systems. In conclusion, an overall study including total equipment cost, port utilisation, maintenance and power cost over time should be undertaken, including both facilities and networking, to make the best overall decision.

Siemon Australia Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W440

COMMS + DATA

Sync probe device The FSP 150SP-100 is a small, efficient and costeffective sync probe device that uses Syncjack technology for timing distribution and monitoring of any network. The device supports delivery and assurance of synchronisation using Synchronous Ethernet and IEEE 1588v2 Precision Time Protocol (PTP). It has a built-in GNSS receiver and Grandmaster clock capability that can be used as measurement reference for Syncjack tools as well as an alternative timing source for frequency, phase and time-of-day delivery. With its thorough IEEE 1588v2 PTP implementation, the device can be configured to operate in slave, boundary and master clock mode to enable highly accurate clock recovery. An internal Stratum-3E clock is capable of holdover to support remote site, head-end and feeder applications. The device uses four Syncjack tools: Clock Probe, PTP Clock Probe, PTP Network Probe and Slave Probe. The Clock Probe is used to measure frequency and phase accuracy of a physical clock source based on TE, TIE and MTIE. The PTP Clock Probe is used for PTP clock analysis calculating TE, TIE and MTIE by using timestamps embedded in PTP messages. PTP Network Probe is used for network analysis of the PTP message transport. The Slave Probe is a default tool used for slave clock performance monitoring. Features include: built-in GPS receiver and Grandmaster Clock functionality; precise clock accuracy measurements and enhanced statistics gathering with external, internal or even no reference; operates in passive probe, active probe and testing mode; new revenue from delivery of SLA-based synchronisation services. TelecomTest Solutions Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W411

40 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

www.ECDsolutions.com.au

COMMS + DATA

Console manager and remote network power switch Interworld Electronics’ RSM-2R4-2F provides secure remote access to RS232 console ports as well as the ability to power cycle remote IT equipment. Suitable for branch office, kiosk or enclosure applications, the RSM-2R4-2F delivers security, accessibility and control of critical network equipment or any device with a console or maintenance port via secure ethernet connection. Power switching capabilities include outlet sequencing with delays, scheduled outlet switching or rebooting and ping-no-answer monitoring with auto rebooting. The RSM-2R4-2F provides two RJ45 serial ports and four reboot power outlets. Security options include: SSHv2 encryption, address-specific IP security masks and multilevel passwords. Remote authentication is also supported. It monitors network equipment, constantly watching for significant changes. Network managers can be notified via SNMP trap or email if invalid access attempts occur, temperature limits are exceeded, port buffers are full,

Double-hinged swing frame Erntec has designed and developed a double-hinged swing frame system for cabinets/enclosures. The system features 19″ mount rails, 400 mm installation depth (800 mm wide, greater cabinet widths available) and hinge/stay mechanism. Other features include: left- or right-hinged; three-point locking with swing handle (lockable); screw fixed transport brackets for secure transporting; built-in lock receivers for left- or right-hinged external door; inner 19″ rail optional; 21U (1200 mm high) up to 45U (2300 mm high); tested to 120 kg (correctly secured with rear roof wall-fixing brackets); swing frame fixing stay; four positions - 90 to >180°; cable socket management accessories. Erntec can also provide an optional recessed 19″ frame with a recessed

ping-no-answer and other events are detected.

secondary hinge bracket.

Interworld Electronics and Computer Industries

ERNTEC Pty Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W053

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W251

Custom splicing solutions AFL is now providing fusion splicing solutions via engineering support, splice optimisation and engineered services that include custom hardware or software design, process improvement consultation, advanced splicer training, maintenance service agreements and fabricated splice components. With AFL’s optimisation services, optimal settings can be determined for any combination of fibre types in any Fujikura splicer, minimising splice loss and keeping splices physically robust. This process involves changing over 50 splicer machine parameters, ranging from splicer arc power to fibre movement rate. These parameters change significantly with fibre characteristics such as fibre diameter, refractive index profile and dopant composition. In the Fujikura FSM-100 fusion splicers and LAZERMaster laser splicing system, splice optimisation plays an important role in maximising the benefits of sweep arc technology, which

www.krausnaimer.com.au SYDNEY MELBOURNE Tel: (02) 9797 7333 Tel: (03) 9720 9777 Fax: (02) 9797 0092 Fax: (03) 9720 9766

BRISBANE ADELAIDE Tel: (07) 3252 8344 Tel: (08) 8371 1443 Fax: (07) 3252 1497 Fax: (08) 8371 0901

Linked with an Australian Wide Distribution Network

42 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

minimises the effects of differences in mode field diameters in a pair of fibres, thereby minimising splice loss. Splice strength can also be enhanced by splice optimisation. AFL Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W271

www.ECDsolutions.com.au

Get your cabling competencies before 30 June It’s been almost two years since the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) amended the regulatory requirements to install specialised telecommunications cabling (structured cabling such as Cat 5/6, optical fibre or coax) within customer premises. In that timeframe, cablers have been encouraged to check the status of their registration and take appropriate action to ensure they’re compliant to the new regulations. That meant having - in addition to an Open Registration - a Structured Cabling endorsement if a cabler installs copper structured cabling, an Optical Fibre endorsement if a cabler installs optical fibre, and a Coax endorsement if a cabler installs coax cabling. Where cablers don’t install any of these cabling types, they don’t need to obtain the related endorsement. It’s that simple. These amendments were made to ensure cablers had the skills required to perform specialised cabling work for the current and emerging customer cabling environment. Recently, the ACMA asked all the Cabling Registrars, including BICSI, to remind all cablers to urgently take steps to be compliant, because the deadline for this is 30 June - only a few months away. From 1 July 2014, all cablers undertaking specialised cabling work must have attained the relevant competencies in order to perform specialised cabling work. Cablers who already have the equivalent endorsements will have these transitioned to competencies, so they won’t need to obtain anything extra. Where cablers do need to obtain competencies, they can do so quite easily by attending and passing relevant specialised cabling courses delivered by registered training organisations (RTOs). The Industry Skills Councils have established that qualified RTOs can offer training for these additional competencies. A full list of qualified RTOs is available on the BICSI Registered Cablers website - www. brca.com.au. The new competencies are further outlined in the ‘Pathways to ACMA Cabling Provider Rules - Cabler Registration’ document that can be downloaded free from www.acma.gov.au. The new competency requirements took effect on 1 July 2012 with a two-year phase-in period. Cablers who perform specialised cabling work and don’t have the applicable endorsements or competencies need to act quickly as the 30 June deadline is looming, and many of the applicable courses delivered by RTOs are booked out months in advance. So don’t leave it until the last minute to address your compliance to the new cabling regulations. Failure to attain the applicable competencies doesn’t mean that a cabling registration will cease to be valid. However, if a cabler doesn’t have the applicable competencies, it simply limits the scope of cabling work he’ll be able to perform.

44 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

www.ECDsolutions.com.au

COMMS + DATA

Universal test platform The VeEX UX400 next-generation modular platform is a flexible, compact and futureproof test solution for OTN, SDH, SONET, PDH, T-Carrier, Carrier Ethernet, mobile backhaul, core and storage area networks. The device is said to be the first robust portable chassis to offer test capabilities ranging from DS1/E1 to 100GE and beyond, allowing any combination of test modules tailored for each particular application or set of requirements. Its versatile and flexible hardware and software architecture optimise configurations to meet usersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; specific needs. This includes transport applications at rates ranging from DS1/E1 to OC-768/STM-256/OTU3 and OTU4 to Carrier Ethernet transport applications from 10M to 40GE/100GE, fibre channel from 1G to 16G and beyond. Its modular architecture allows for up to six independent test modules and up to 12 concurrent tests or combination of tests. It also allows simultaneous users to share the platform and run independent tests, maximising the use of resources. Features include: intuitive multiuser graphical user interface (GUI) with touch-screen control; up to 12 independent concurrent tests; field exchangeable test modules; SCPI scripting/remote control and VNC support; fast and efficient test result transfer to USB memory stick or FTP upload; built-in optical power meter and visual fault locator option; built-in GPS receiver for system clock synchronisation option; built-in atomic clock option, which can be disciplined and calibrated by the GPS signal; industrial -grade SSD (solid-state disk) with up to 32 GB of storage space; high-capacity Li-ion battery pack for uninterrupted testing and added portability; portable with weight less than 10 kg including battery pack; rackmount version available; built-in VGA monitor port for external monitor or projector connection; operate with USB mouse and keyboard. Users can maintain instrument software, manage test configurations, process measurement results and generate customised test reports using the included ReVeal software. TelecomTest Solutions Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W422

www.ECDsolutions.com.au

MARCH/APRIL 2014 - ECD SOLUTIONS 45

THRIVING IN THE

DIGITAL REVOLUTION

IT INFRASTRUCTURE

Paul Budde*

There is no doubt that the next 10 years will bring further exciting developments to the increasingly vital telecommunications industry. The foundations for change are well in motion and the continuing deployment of high-speed broadband and 4G technology will provide the infrastructure to ignite the new innovations and revolutions of the future.

he infrastructure that is now being built offers a range of features such as ubiquitousness, affordability, low latency, high speed and high capacity. It will link millions of devices, such as sensors, that will enable us to manage our environment, traffic, infrastructures, and our society as a whole, more efficiently and effectively. There are a number of key trends which have emerged in recent years and will be real game-changers. Machine-to-machine (M2M), also referred to as the ‘Internet of Things’, is one such trend and it will transform every single sector of society and the economy. It will be out of this environment that new businesses - and indeed new industries - will be born. In Australia, the number of connected M2M devices will grow to between 25 million and 50 million by 2020. The large amounts of data generated by M2M developments as well as the increase in user-generated communications via social networks and the like will also contribute to the progress of big data. Organisations are beginning to recognise the importance of storing and processing the growing amount of data they retain and also mining this data for commercial benefit. In turn, this is leading to a growth in data centres, due to the increasing data storage demands and pressure on companies to be environmentally proactive by consolidating and outsourcing their data management requirements. The NBN in Australia has given an enormous boost to the data centre market, with forward-looking investments worth $5 billion. Currently the developments are highly centralised in the capital cities, but a more decentralised trend is expected to develop over time. It is increasingly clear that Wi-Fi will play a key role in the telecoms environment of the future. The use of Wi-Fi hotspots continues to rise due to increasing use of smartphones and mobile devices. The status of Wi-Fi technology is continuing to improve, creating a whole new range of opportunities in the Wi-Fi market. Smartphone users want faster, more ubiquitous and reliable connectivity, while operators are looking to squeeze every last bit of capacity out of their cellular networks. As a result, smarter Wi-Fi is needed so that it can take on a more strategic role as part of the overall mobile network infrastructure. Ultimately, users simply want the fastest and most reliable wireless connection they can get.

46 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

Cloud computing deployment and development is accelerating beyond expectations as the true potential of this technology reveals itself. It has become one of the fastest growing areas for the IT sector. In Australia, cloud computing solutions are now being adopted by over 80% of enterprises and government institutions. Similar developments can be seen in the consumer market, with services offered by the digital media companies. For enterprises, the development of cloud computing takes the form of a business transition, and company strategies and policies need to be changed before its potential can be monetised by businesses. A key factor here is that organisations will have to lift ICT from the level of an infrastructure issue to that of a business opportunity. Cloud computing is a concept, not a technology and will need to be seen as a valuable business tool - one that will differentiate the company from others. Cloud security and privacy are issues which require scrutiny and there are growing concerns about data ‘ownership’. The enormous financial benefits of cloud computing will see these concerns being overcome, along with the right standardisations and infrastructure put in place. But to successfully implement cloud computing, far more robust infrastructure is required than what is currently available. The NBN will provide the robust infrastructure needed for high-speed information processing, distributed computing, as well as many other applications that can be processed, analysed and managed - all in real time over a cloud-computer-based IT platform. Security will be crucial and far more attention needs to be given to ensure that these new large-scale developments are properly protected. This is of national importance. *Paul Budde is an internationally recognised leader in developing business strategies and government policies for the digital economy and its broadband infrastructure. He is a special adviser to the UN on these issues and has provided strategic advice on the development of NBNs in Australia and a range of other countries. Budde is the keynote speaker at the BICSI South Pacific Conference and Exhibition, to be held in Brisbane from 12-14 May 2014. http://paulbudde.com

www.ECDsolutions.com.au

Detect. Assess. Respond. Instantly. www.flir.com.au/ecd-security

FLIR PERIMETER SECURITY

SYSTEMS SLASH POWER BILLS

As power costs continue to soar, virtual perimeter alert systems like FLIR Systems’ Thermal Fence could save industrial property owners millions of dollars in construction and annual lighting costs. With power prices hitting new highs and tipped to rise by around 40% in the next 12 months, virtual perimeter alert systems – which require little or no artificial light – are increasingly being considered to reduce power bills without compromising safety and security. FLIR Systems’ Thermal Fence is a fully integrated virtual perimeter alert system using thermal security cameras for simultaneous threat detection and assessment. The turnkey system is a unique combination of thermal security cameras, video analytics software and other intrusion detection sensors for integrating and displaying the status and feedback from all of your perimeter security sensors on one convenient display. This potent combination of FLIR’s thermal security cameras and the FLIR Sensors Manager (FSM) software provides automated perimeter approach surveillance, intrusion detection and alert capabilities for every perimeter security application including critical

infrastructure, petrochemical facilities, ports, prisons, commercial campuses and residential installations. Thermal security cameras make pictures from heat not light, so they can see clearly in total darkness and through smoke, dust and light fog. They allow you to see more and see farther than any other night vision technology on the market today, and even see clearly in blinding sunlight. In its simplest form, a Thermal Fence could be a single thermal security camera and a box of FLIR Sensor Manager software. With these simple components, you can establish a virtual perimeter, create customized alarms and tripwires to alert you instantly to potential intrusions. Or it can be as complex as it needs to be for a seamless, layered perimeter defence system integrating multiple thermal imaging cameras, CCTV cameras and non-video alarm sensors like shaker fences and RFIDs, on your existing IP network. Less expensive than installing a new physical barrier and less intrusive

than expensive lighting infrastructure, the FLIR Thermal Fence allows security professionals to: • Boost their alarm detection and assessment capabilities along existing physical fence lines • Establish a virtual perimeter in areas that cannot be fenced due to economic, environmental, or logistical restrictions • Bolster the security of critical zones within existing secured perimeters by creating exclusion zones and establishing concentric rings of increasingly stringent security coverage Featuring the industryleading line of IP thermal security cameras, the FLIR Thermal Fence gives you instant, automated threat detection and visual threat assessment capability around the clock in one easy-to-use package. FLIR’s thermal security cameras are fully networked with FLIR Sensors Manager, a comprehensive sensor management software package that lets you manage the alarms from

a range of third-party sensor manufacturers, including fence sensors, ground sensors, radars, and much more.

A video or image can be displayed as an example of the thermal image you will get with the selected setting of your camera.

The optional DVR Sensor Activity Recorder provides integrated alarm and activity recording capability over your Thermal Fence. The integral geo-referenced mapping function features FLIR’s unique slew-to-cue function, which commands FLIR’s pan/tilt IP thermal security cameras to point at the precise coordinates of any alarm generated by any sensor on your FLIR Thermal Fence network. This allows the operator to immediately perform a visual inspection of the alarm, expediting a human response to the event. FSM’s advanced video analytics use algorithms specifically designed to work with thermal video, allowing you to create customized rules for trip wires, exclusion zones, temperature alarms, and directional alarming while providing a much lower rate of false alarms than other analytics packages.

To find out more about FLIR security products go to www.flir.com.au/ecd-security

FLIR Systems Australia Pty Ltd Toll Free: 1300 729 987 NZ: 0800 785 492 Tel: +61 (0)3 9550 2800 Email: info@flir.com.au www.flir.com All images are used for illustration purposes only. Technical specifications subject to change without notice.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

TUNE UP

OR RIP AND REPLACE? It is believed that a major upgrade is needed to maximise building performance. Certainly with systems such as HVAC there can be a fairly straightforward ROI calculation but the decision on other systems, such as control systems at the building or plant level, is less clear-cut.

lder control systems can limit flexibility - for example, by not supporting programming for different levels of building use across the day or the week. Take an office building whose control system doesn’t support different programming for different days. It is necessarily going to waste a huge amount of resources - and money - lighting and climate controlling the building on weekends when there are likely to be few workers present. Does this mean you need to replace the control system entirely? Not necessarily. Jonathan Clarke, senior associate and controls group manager of Norman Disney Young, notes that building management systems run on ‘invisible’ software and updating this software, not the entire control system, can open up more tuning opportunities to deliver better building performance. The issue of maximising performance of existing building stock will be a theme at this year’s ARBS technical seminar series, when a variety of speakers will discuss the issues and share current research and lessons learnt from a range of recent projects. Andrew Smith, leader of building technologies at A.G. Coombs, is a retro-commissioning specialist who says that huge improvements are possible with the application of technology and knowledge developed in the last 5-10 years. In a showcase project at 100 Pacific Highway, North Sydney, Smith and his team moved a building from a 2.5 star NABERS rating to 5 stars - with no new equipment. His approach starts with an audit of a building’s existing performance, ideally with 3-9 months’ data, including summer, winter and a shoulder season data. Armed with this knowledge and a detailed understanding of the building’s current plant, equipment and control systems, he can develop a building tuning strategy. Meanwhile, AECOM’s technical director - buildings, Chris Beck, is on a mission to make the link between installed information, facilities management and building management system data - the sweet spot where these systems combine to deliver highperforming, low-running-cost buildings. Currently researching the confluence of these areas on behalf of major international clients,

www.ECDsolutions.com.au

Beck is working with designers, control systems manufacturers and everyone in between to understand the issues. “There are so many parties who have to collaborate to ensure we can maximise building performance management,” says Beck. “Building control systems vendors need to get on board to understand the requirements for data exchange between their systems. Practitioners at every stage of a building’s life from concept through to decommissioning need to understand the part their data plays in managing the building across its whole of life.” This means that in many cases facilities managers need further education and training, and building owners likewise need education to empower their facilities managers to take steps to improve performance. Clarke also notes that benefits accrue when building managers involve building occupants. A regular part of his building management review and tuning process is to consult tenants. “On a recent project, we allowed every zone in the building to vote to get buy-in from the tenants,” he says. “Occupant comfort was a key driver for the project, and that involvement was critical in achieving the desired outcomes.” With current efforts working from both ends - the front-end design and build and the back-end tuning and performance management - it would seem that we can make significant improvements to the performance even of old building stock. Chris Beck will reveal more about his research in a seminar at ARBS 2014 and Jonathan Clarke will present an informative seminar about the current state of building controls and how to make tough decisions like ‘new system or recommission?’ Andrew Smith will share learnings from a variety of recent retro-commissioning projects. ARBS 2014 will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 20-22 May 2014. ARBS 2014 20-22 May 2014, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre ARBS Exhibitions Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W427

MARCH/APRIL 2014 - ECD SOLUTIONS 49

Industrial security router Belden’s industrial security router Eagle One builds on its

Compact surveillance cameras

existing Eagle family to advance data security in industrial

The AXIS M1145-L and AXIS M1145

incidents and cyberattacks, improving operational security,

Fixed Network Cameras provide an

reliability and performance.

automation. It hardens industrial systems against network

affordable solution for discreet day

The Eagle One features the capacity to withstand the

and night indoor video surveillance

harshest industrial conditions in almost any environment,

with clear identification. The cam-

especially areas dealing with explosive and hazardous

eras are suitable for professional

materials, such as oil and gas, power transmission and

video surveillance applications in retail

distribution, and transportation companies. It can be used

stores, boutiques, restaurants, hotels

at extreme temperatures, from -40 to +70°C and is compli-

and offices.

ant with global standards and certifications, including US

The fixed network cameras provide HDTV 1080p resolution video at full

OH&S Class I, Division 2 hazardous location conditions, ATEX directives and the Germanischer Lloyd classifications.

frame rate and offer multiple H.264

It features ease of integration through a ‘firewall learning mode’ that reduces traditional

and Motion JPEG streams which

installation risks, such as network interruptions or configuration errors. Advanced redundancy

can be individually optimised for

features for maximum security, including layer 2 and layer 3 functions, ensure switchover to

bandwidth and storage efficiency. The

a standby device in the event of a fault or failure.

AXIS M1145-L is equipped with built-in

Belden Australia Pty Ltd

adjustable IR LED illumination allowing

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W093

for easy and discreet day and night video surveillance. The slim, compact cameras feature optimisedIR LED technology that provides an adaptable angle of IR illumination and a P-Iris lens for optimal depth of field, resolution, image contrast and clarity. The remote 3.5x optical zoom ensures the camera’s

Room controller

angle of view is optimised for the

The SE8000 Series is a sophisticated addition to the Schneider Electric portfolio of

area to be monitored. Additionally, the

room controllers. The series can be used to monitor and control heating, ventilation

M1145-L and M1145 contain 39% and

and air conditioning (HVAC) and lighting to ensure the systems are always operating

42% recycled plastic.

at peak performance. The compact controllers are suitable for use in hotels, corporate

Additional features include sup-

offices and high-end retail stores.

port for edge storage with a built-in

With rich, customisable features, the controllers come in elegant style combinations

microSD/SDHC memory card slot, pixel

to complement any decor. The touch-screen interface, with multilanguage support, is

counter, Axis Corridor Format, power

easy to use and has a dis-

over ethernet (IEEE 802.3af) and I/O

creet occupancy sensor, so

port for PIR sensor options.

the controller is only active

The cameras are said to be simple

when someone is present

to set up and are supported by the

in the room, saving energy

Axis Application Development Partner

in the process.

Program, AXIS Camera Station and the

The products are simple

AXIS Camera Companion. The camera

and quick to install. They

also includes support for AXIS Video

have a built-in scalability

Hosting System and ONVIF for easy

and easy integration with

camera system integration.

most building management systems. The controllers can also be activated remotely to

Axis Communications Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W360

50 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

allow facility managers to ensure their building is always operating at peak performance. Schneider Electric Power Business Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W041

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CASE STUDY

Aurecon delivers ‘intelligent’ building for medical research institute

he South Australian Health and Medical Institute (SAHMRI) aims to translate medical research results into medical health outcomes that will reach the community. Up to 675 of the world’s foremost scientists will work in the $200 million smart building. In order to help the scientists get on with their respective jobs without having to worry about whether factors like lighting and temperature are affecting their work, a fully integrated solution across all building services, facilities and functional areas was implemented. Aurecon was significantly involved in developing the facility. The Aurecon project team was responsible for electrical, communications and fire services, as well as vertical transportation and integrated building systems. “The vision for integration stretched the boundaries of the standard design, procurement and construction process,” said Justin Goodman, Aurecon Building Services project director. “Thinking outside the square, SAHMRI, together with Aurecon, was able to enhance the integration, through combining packages of work from traditional electrical, mechanical and communications services, to encapsulate the intellect of one of Australia’s most integrated buildings in its operation and control.” Aurecon was involved in numerous fit-out projects within the building including a cyclotron facility, preclinical imaging and research laboratory, PC2/QC2 laboratory and IT spaces. The team provided input on lighting control solutions, appropriate fire services for the preclinical imaging, and research laboratory and services reticulation strategies to maintain stringent PC2/QC2 requirements in the laboratories. Combining all building control systems into one design package provided the managing contractor with a single platform from which to work and enabled the delivery of a dynamic, responsive, world-class facility, with all systems working together to provide the adaptability and flexibility required throughout the facility’s life cycle. The Integrated Building System (IBS) includes the integration and monitoring of the heating and cooling, hydraulics, lifts, fire, electrical, lighting, security systems and lab controls. This ‘intelligence’ provides real-time measurement of energy and water consumption and gives SAHMRI the data to improve energy efficiency and operational costs throughout the facility’s life cycle. Systems integration addresses the complexity and flexibility required for the purpose-built facility. It optimises the facility by incorporating and monitoring all the required physical components and their exact usage, thereby providing data for accurate and timely maintenance planning. In addition, it rapidly reports on failure, alerting the people who need to know and triggering a chain of events to effectively manage the failure.

To ensure optimal network performance, SAHMRI and Aurecon implemented the iPatch intelligent patching technology - a solution that gives systems managers a real-time view of the network physical layer. Through iPatch panels, systems managers can monitor network connections and attached devices from the desktop PC. This intelligent infrastructure allows them to stay a step ahead of demand for connectivity and enable efficient changes and improved network security. The new network infrastructure, designed for high reliability and efficient operation, includes real-time information on connection status and displays on the patching frames. This helps minimise network downtime and provides technicians with guidance, allowing them to work faster and with fewer errors. This is the first full implementation of the ImVision System Manager Version 7.0 SP3 in the world. The implementation of a peak load lopping system, using the local on-site emergency power generation, coupled with dual fuel technology, reduces operational costs by decreasing ongoing energy demand changes, and assists with site peak load management. As part of an innovative sustainability program, the project is the first laboratory building in Australia designed to achieve a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold rating. Aurecon developed an integrated solution for large-scale PV, energy-efficient lighting and overall systems control, which it says supports the achievement of this globally recognised standard. Aurecon’s design involvement and decision-making looked beyond capital expenditure and the project life cycle to the ongoing operational needs of the building. The team worked closely with the managing contractor on procurement strategies, constructability, budget and program to implement solutions to create energy efficiencies and intelligent building systems for the life of the asset. “Aurecon displayed seamless integration with all the professional engineering consultants on the project, working collaboratively and sharing its expertise for the best outcome for the client and outstanding deliverables,” said Michelle Gheorghiu, director, infrastructure and capital planning, SAHMRI. “I strongly support and recommend Aurecon’s building services team to anyone embarking on complex and major projects.” Aurecon is continuing to work closely with SAHMRI and its commissioning agent during the handover phase to ensure all systems are operating correctly and all specialised functions are delivered. Aurecon Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W462

52 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

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OPTIMISING YOUR INDUSTRY 9-10 APRIL 2014 | MELBOURNE PARK FUNCTION CENTRE, MELBOURNE OLYMPIC PARK

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ACI Connect is Australia’s new conference and exhibition focused on automation, control and instrumentation technology, advances and applications. Presentations, workshops and panels on industry hot buttons such as Industry 4.0, cybersecurity, ethernet in industry, machine safety, future manufacturing and skills shortages make this a must-attend event.

CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS: Greybeards & ‘playstationers’ — addressing the skills shortage Bruce Kendall — RMIT Industry 4.0 — what is it and what does it mean for our industry? Chris Vains — Siemens Engineering and manufacturing – where to now? Alex Baitch — Engineers Australia Cybersecurity — myth or reality? Panel chaired by What’s New in Process Technology editor, Glenn Johnson Pervasive sensing — changing the fundamentals of automation Jesse Dodge — Emerson Process Management

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VRF solution LG has released the Multi V IV heat pump 460 V variable refrigerant flow (VRF) solution. The model offers coefficient of performance (COP) of 4.34, made possible by LG's technologies. These include high-pressure oil return (HiPORTM), which minimises compressor energy wastage, and the variable heat exchanger circuit, which selects the optimal paths for both heating and cooling. The solution features LG’s fourth-generation inverter compressor - the high-side shell (HSS) scroll inverter - and a BLDC-type motor coil, and minimises energy loss under part-load conditions. It is also able to offer a 30% improvement in integrated partload energy efficiency, as well as an increased COP in cooling

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EFFICIENT LIGHTING

WITH LEDS

Jeanine Chrobak-Kando from Verbatim reveals five ways LED technology can boost sales and cut electricity bills for retailers.

ffective lighting has always been a key component of store design. Retailers can use LED lighting to show off their products - whether furniture, designer clothing or fruit and vegetables - more attractively, tailor store ambience to the season and ensure customers look their best. Here are some tips for professionals involved in lighting up retail outlets.

Bring out true colours Some of the most vibrant colours in nature are to be found in fresh food. That’s partly because humans have evolved to be attracted to the colours of the edible, nutritious fruit and vegetables that grow on trees and bushes. The modern-day equivalent of that is the fresh aisle at the supermarket or at a restaurant dining table in a retail food court, so bring out the true colours of natural produce with illumination provided by a lighting system with a high colour rendering index (CRI), particularly using lamps that deliver excellent R9 values. The CRI measures the quality of light produced by a lamp across its full visible spectrum, with a maximum value of 100 W (equivalent to natural sunlight).

Directionality Harness the directionality of LED lamps - a feature that arises from the design of the LED ‘chips’ that actually produce the light inside the lamps - to add stopping power to window displays (a technique also used to help make customers look their best - see tip below). LED-based accent lighting brings out rich textures and adds depth to high-quality materials and surfaces. The flexibility of the technology means that colours and hues of this accent lighting can be tailored to the changing fashions of seasons.

Displays Exploit the flexibility offered by LED lighting to illuminate leather goods with warm-white tones, but switch to a cooler white for suits or jeans. For cabinets containing jewellery, add sparkle by using multiple point sources of light from directional LED lamps.

The fitting room experience The fitting room experience is absolutely critical to customers, with research by Vrije University in Brussels indicating that this is where 80% of buying decisions take place. Making the customer

56 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

look their best is going to enhance the likelihood of a sale - so it’s out with harsh, blue-tinged fluorescent lamps and hot traditional spotlights, and in with adaptable LED lighting. Efficiency is another obvious advantage. With less heat from spotlights in the fitting room, the additional comfort is likely to improve the mood of a customer and they are more likely to spend time in the store as a result. The latest VxRGB phosphor technology, which has been designed with retail applications in mind, demonstrates that CRI can sometimes be an imprecise measurement of colour accuracy. By applying a unique combination of red, green and blue phosphors to a violet, rather than a blue, LED chip, the colour of objects under VxRGB illumination appears more vibrant compared to conventional LED or halogen lamps which may have a higher CRI value.

Refrigerator lighting The chilled and frozen foods aisle of the supermarket is where LED lighting can really come into its own. Not only does the lack of waste heat produced by the LED chips mean that less chilling is required compared to fluorescent lamps, but the physics behind LED chips means that they actually work more effectively - and last longer - in a cooler environment. LED lighting also produces no ultraviolet light and this fact means there is considerably less spoilage of fresh foods in comparison to fluorescent lighting. When planning a lighting scheme for a retail store, designers will be looking to strike a balance between creating depth and drama while ensuring lighting is still practical. So while accent lighting and wallwashing can accentuate specific displays or brand messages, ambient lighting will typically remain at the heart of the whole retail lighting scheme in general. While it is true that LED lighting requires some additional upfront investment compared with older technologies, the hefty savings on energy consumption in a retail context mean that this cost is soon recouped. LED lighting cuts down the electricity devoured by halogen lamps by at least a factor of five and, because it needs far less frequent replacement, will also save on future maintenance costs. Add what will become a far more pleasant working environment for retail staff to those green credentials, plus the potential for boosting sales, and the case for LED lighting is crystal clear. Verbatim Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W473

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SOLAR FORECAST: CLOUDY AND DULL

RET REVIEW

The federal government’s review from the Renewable Energy Target is well underway. Some have welcomed the decision, others are worried.

he government’s goal is to maintain investment certainty, to review the progress, and to ensure pressure is taken off electricity prices, said Environment Minister Greg Hunt. “We’re all aware that there is an oversupply of electricity generation in Australia, we need to put that in that context as well. And the bottom line is, we are looking at how we can reduce cost impacts, both on industry and on households, of electricity prices overall,” said Industry Minister Ian MacFarlane. John Grimes, the CEO of Australian Solar Council has strong concerns. Any changes to the RET, says Grimes, will have a devastating effect on the industry. “The government has said everything is on the table in reviewing the Renewable Energy Target. That means abolishing the Renewable Energy Target is on the table. Recent research shows 8000 jobs could be lost if the Renewable Energy Target is axed.” The solar industry supports around 4500 businesses and employs around 18,500 people, the majority of whom are electrical contractors, said Grimes. Solar power offers several benefits. It reduces peak and overall demand, cuts wholesale prices, reduces electricity waste and blackouts and cuts cost of distribution and transmission. “Solar also does the heavy lifting for Australia during heat waves and has been a key reason why we have avoided blackouts in recent weeks,” adds Grimes.

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Despite this, the industry is plagued by weak demand. The number of solar PV installations has already dropped by 22% over the past 12 months, with a 20% decline in the solar hot water market, according to a January report by the REC Agents Association (RAA). The RET has helped five million Australians put solar on their roof but the market is in decline due to cuts to government support programs and uncertainty surrounding RET, says Ric Brazzale, President of the REC Agents Association. “Any move to cut the Renewable Energy Target will lead to further job losses and company closures across the country.” The ASC has launched a ‘save solar’ campaign fearing the government may scrap the scheme. The association has already raised a fighting fund of around $150,000 through the ‘save solar’ campaign. The funding is expected to help the association in engaging professional media and government relations experts to help craft out key messages and to help guide the campaign. “The government says it is concerned about the impact of the Renewable Energy Target on power bills. The good news is the impact is very small, with the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme making up less than 2% of the power bill and even less once you factor in the reduced wholesale cost of electricity caused by five million Australians installing solar,” claims Grimes.

MARCH/APRIL 2014 - ECD SOLUTIONS 59

RET REVIEW

The RAA agrees, saying, “The cost of the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) currently accounts for 0.54 cents per kWh or 2% of a customer’s bill and is expected to more than halve over the next two years to account for less than 1%.” The Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) will have a zero net cost impact on household power bills, according to RAA. “The cost of the Renewable Energy Target that gets passed through to residential customers currently amounts to a modest 1.12 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh) or 4% of the average residential electricity bill. The RET puts downward pressure on wholesale electricity prices and, as a result, wholesale prices are considerably lower than expected. The reduction in the wholesale price due to the RET is estimated to be 0.67 cents per kWh.” The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has a different opinion. The scheme, claims ACCI, now accounts for around 5% of an average household's electricity bill and, along with the carbon tax, has left green schemes as the fastest growing proportion of a consumer's energy bill over the past two years. “The direct cost of the RET across the economy in 2012 was $1.6bn, second only to the carbon tax in terms of the impact of green schemes. The Productivity Commission has already shown that, as an emissions abatement scheme, the RET is a clear failure, imposing costs of abatement of up to $525 per tonne of carbon. The RET is clearly an inefficient means of abating carbon emissions.”

“There are far cheaper ways of curtaining carbon emissions and, ironically, supporters of the RET are undermining Australia’s mitigation efforts by insisting it be achieved through high-cost renewables”, remarked ACCI’s Acting Chief Economist, Burchell Wilson. The RET review is being undertaken by an expert panel, headed by Dick Warburton AO LVO and including Matthew Zema, Dr Brian Fisher AO PSM and Shirley In’t Veld. The review will be provided to government by the middle of the year, which will, in turn, be an important input into the Energy White Paper process. The RET will be one of the key topics of discussion at the upcoming Solar 2014 Conference to be held in Melbourne from 8-9 May 2014.The conference will feature three concurrent conference sessions: industry and policy stream; solar installer and designer professional development training; scientific and research stream (a registration fee does apply for this session). The industry and policy session will host a continuous stream of free-to-attend presentations from industry experts, covering diverse topics, from current policy and market analysis, to financing of projects and industry case studies along with government representative updates.The scientific and research conference session will also be held over the two days and will feature approximately 100 peer-reviewed academic papers.

LED bulbs Brightgreen has introduced three LED bulbs - the BR80, BR180 and BR200 - to the Retrofit range, with an aim to provide efficient alternatives to the small halogen and incandescent bulbs available. The BR80 is designed as a replacement for 10 W G4 halogen bulbs used in architectural fixings and household appliances such as range hoods and desk lamps. The long-life BR80 bulb provides 90 lm of either warm or cool low-energy illumination. The BR180 is an energy-saving alternative to 30 W G9 halogen bulbs used in wall-mounted light fittings and safety lights. Running on 2.5 W of power, it is suitable for use where downlighting and decorative lighting are combined. The BR200 LED bulb is a low-energy 3 W alternative to 20 W fancy round incandescent bulbs used for interior illumination and decorative features. Its 200° beam angle creates an even spread of warm light. Brightgreen Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V704

Switch socket with extra removable switch The next evolution in the Clipsal Saturn switch range is a twin switched socket, with an extra removable switch. The extra removable switch offers increased flexibility and is most suited for use in kitchens and bathrooms, where it can be used to turn on a separate circuit to control fans, lighting and cookers. Clipsal Saturn switches are moulded from easy-to-clean, chemical-resistant material. They have a premium look and feel which is suitable for both new-build and retrofit projects. Designed to suit standard mounting accessories, the Saturn 4025XA twin switched socket with extra switch is available in all Saturn colours. Schneider Electric Power Business Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/W256

60 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

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STORING THE ENERGY DELIVERING THE POWER

AUSTRALIAN ENERGY STORAGE CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION 8-9 MAY 2014, MELBOURNE EXHIBITION & CONVENTION CENTRE A unique industry event providing a platform to network and meet all of the critical players in Australia’s energy storage industry.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

SUPPORTED BY

CO-LOCATED WITH

INSTALLERS HAVE POOR UNDERSTANDING OF

LED TECHNOLOGY Bryan Douglas, Chief Executive Officer, Lighting Council Australia

igh luminance, excellent colour saturation, high luminous efficacy, high energy conversion efficacy, small dimensions and lightweight, robustness, long life span, low-voltage power supply and ease of dimming are some of the many benefits of LEDs, noted LED technology expert Professor Georges Zissis at his Australian seminar titled LEDs Dreams and Nightmares. In February, Zissis, who has a particular expertise in application of LEDs for street lighting, delivered seminars to over 360 lighting and other professionals in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. The seminars were part of Lighting Council Australia’s LED seminar series and came at a particularly important time for lighting when cities, municipalities and utilities around the world are moving, or contemplating the move, to LED street lighting. Zissis’ presentation also went on to document some of the issues and problems with the technology. These include: • eventual limits to efficacy of around 250 lm/W estimated to be reached in 2025, • a marked difference between LED efficacy and system efficacy arising from thermal management losses, optical losses, ballast losses and photometry losses, • marked variations between claimed and tested performance, • falsification by some vendors of test certificates, • a multiplicity of conflicting standards, • issues with power supplies which include poor manual soldering, unreliable wiring, low-quality components, low-quality chemical capacitors, hot points and low mechanical quality, • power factor and cosφ issues, • flicker,

62 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

EFFICIENT LIGHTING

• blue light hazard, • environmental impact. Another significant issue is poor understanding of LED technology by installers. In a recent survey of European installers, the following extraordinary results came from a question on the effects on LEDs of increasing ambient temperature (bear in mind that heat is often described as the number one enemy of solid-state lighting): It is doubtful whether these results would be much different in Australia. Energy consumption during operation is considered by Professor Zissis to be by far the most important environmental indicator of light sources. By this measure LEDs perform well. In the second seminar of the series, Professor Zissis examined the current status of street lighting. He spoke of the ‘Grenelle I’ (2009) and ‘Grenelle II’ (2010) French laws which had the following aims: • Replacing old technologies with modern lamps • Promoting LED technology • Regulating mains quality and reducing cost impact • Promoting power variation systems • Promoting electronic ballasts • Turning off lights late at night • Enhancing preventive maintenance • Converting traffic lights to LEDs The legislation has resulted in a saving of 19.55 GWh spread across 2131 small French communities with a total population of 1.7 million inhabitants. Among the conclusions of the street lighting seminar is the need to take a holistic approach to energy savings. Factors including

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EFFICIENT LIGHTING

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mesopic vision, lamp technology, intelligent control and fixtures all need to be considered. Induction lighting was considered a particular problem unless adequately shielded because of its potential to cause electromagnetic interference. Professor Zissis demonstrated the effects of mesopic vision under dimming conditions and showed an excellent example of LEDs replacing older technology on a pedestrian bridge spanning environmentally sensitive wetlands in Portugal. Professor Zissis questions whether LEDs are ready for road lighting (as opposed to the less demanding requirements of street and other public lighting). In a 2011 experiment, only one supplier’s

product was deemed to meet all requirements (which included illuminance levels, light uniformity and energy efficiency, among others). The seminar concluded by citing the following factors necessary for optimisation of public lighting: high-quality research, new standards and metrology, technological development, legislation, incentives, training, market knowledge, social knowledge. Zissis is qualified to speak on the subject of solid-state lighting. He is head of the Light and Matter Research Group at LaPlaCE (Laboratoire Plasma et Conversion d’Énergie) at the University of Toulouse, France, and is a world-renowned expert in lighting systems research and design. In addition, Professor Zissis is Task 1 Leader of the International Energy Agency’s 4E SSL Annex. Under his leadership, the IEA has published performance tiers for a range of applications. The SSL Annex was established in 2009 under the framework of the International Energy Agency’s Efficient Electrical End-Use Equipment (4E) Implementing Agreement to provide advice to its 10 member countries - one of which is Australia - seeking to implement quality assurance programs for SSL lighting. The goal of this work is to reduce the risk in using SSL products and to provide governments and consumers with recommendations they can trust when investing in SSL products. The performance tiers identify a suite of metrics and values related to minimum performance values of SSL for energy efficiency, lighting quality and safety.

LED dimmer The LED dimmer from Hager is designed specifically to work with LED lights and therefore is compatible with more LEDs than a standard trailing or leading-edge dimmer. The Soft Start feature adds to the life of the bulb, by gradually applying the load when switching on the dimmer. The dimmer offers short-circuit protection - when a short circuit is detected the lighting load is automatically cut off. The dimmer may then be reset by switching off. If the dimmer

LED lamps The Vibe LED PLC lamps are suitable for use in offices, schools, restaurants, foyers, hotels, clubs and nursing homes. They come in two wattage variations: an 8 W LED which replaces an 18 W PLC and a 12 W LED that replaces a 26 W PLC. These lamps are both available in either 3000 K (warm white) or 5000 K (natural white). The width is 35 mm, but the lamps vary in height, with the 8 W being 135 mm and the 12 W 165 mm. The LED PLC 2-pin lamp has a high power factor of 0.87 - that is equal to five times that of standard 2-pin PLC lamps. The lamps are claimed to reduce power consumption by up to 50% and have a long life span of 30,000 hours. These lamps come with a 3-year warranty, an SAA-approved certification and

overheats, the lighting level will automatically reduce to 20% of the maximum output. The light level will automatically return to the original level once the overheating condition has passed. The following LED lighting manufacturers have products which have been tested and found suitable for use with this dimmer: Brightgreen, Melec, Pierlite, Ecogem, Osram, Samsung, Eklipt, Phillips, Sunny, Eyelite and PHL.

a high CRI of 8. The lamps are not suitable for use with electronic ballasts, but

Hager Electro Pty Ltd

will work with magnetic ballasts or through direct connection.

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V701

ANL Lighting Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V702

64 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

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A.B.N. 22 152 305 336 Head Office Cnr. Fox Valley Road & Kiogle Street, (Locked Bag 1289) Wahroonga NSW 2076 Australia Ph: +61 2 9487 2700 Fax: +61 2 9489 1265 Editor: Mansi Gandhi mgandhi@westwick-farrow.com.au Assistant Editor: Alice Richard Chief Editor: Janette Woodhouse Publisher: Geoff Hird Art Director/Production Manager: Julie Wright Art/Production: Tanya Scarselletti, Odette Boulton, Colleen Sam Circulation Manager: Sue Lavery circulation@westwick-farrow.com.au

SOLAR 2014

Solar 2014 Conference and Exhibition, 8-9 May 2014, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre

he Australian Solar Council together with international partner AUPVSEE present the 52nd annual Australian Solar Council Industry Conference & Exhibition on 8-9 May 2014 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre. Solar 2014 is free to attend* and will focus on delivering expert analysis and opinion, and showcasing the latest technologies from solar and renewables, energy efficiency and the sustainable built environment industries. The event will feature three concurrent conference sessions: • Industry and policy stream • Solar installer and designer professional development training • Scientific and research stream* The event will also include an extensive industry exhibition, with over 100 exhibitors. The industry and policy conference session will host a continuous stream of presentations from industry experts, covering diverse topics from current policy and market analysis, to financing of projects and industry case studies along with government representative updates. Solar 2014 is working with the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) to deliver solar installer and designer professional development training. This training

will be free to attend and delegates may be eligible for CPD points towards accreditation. The Australian Solar Council’s scientific and research conference session will also be held over the two days and features approximately 100 peer-reviewed academic papers. A registration fee does apply for this session. Don’t miss this important industry program - join in and share your thoughts at the open forums, discuss current industry concerns and issues, and address the future outlook for the solar industry. The Solar 2014 exhibition has a wide range of international and Australian participants providing the opportunity to network directly with policymakers, industry players, experts and consumers. Registration for the Solar 2014 Conference & Exhibition is now open via the event website: www.solarexhibition.com.au. The official launch of the Australian Energy Storage Conference and Exhibition will be held alongside the Solar 2014 show. For further details, visit www.australianenergystorage.com.au. *Registration fees will apply to attend the Australian Solar Council’s research and scientific conference sessions. For further information, visit www.solarexhibition.com.au

66 ECD SOLUTIONS - MARCH/APRIL 2014

Copy Control: Mitchie Mullins copy@westwick-farrow.com.au Advertising Sales: National Sales Manager - Nicola Fender-Fox Ph: 0414 703 780 nfender-fox@westwick-farrow.com.au NSW, QLD, VIC - Mark Ryu Ph: 0404 803 356 mryu@westwick-farrow.com.au SA, WA - Lachlan Rainey Ph: 0402 157 167 lrainey@westwick-farrow.com.au New Zealand - Gemma Burr Ph: 0800 442 529 gburr@westwick-farrow.com.au ASIA - Lachlan Rainey Ph: +61 (0) 402 157 167 Subscriptions: For unregistered readers - price on application If you have any queries regarding our privacy policy please email privacy@westwick-farrow.com.au

September 2013 Total CAB Audited Circulation (Aust + NZ) 7,149 (69% personally requested) ECD Solutions: ISSN 2201-2702 Printed and bound by Webstar +61 2 9748 0020

All material published in this magazine is published in good faith and every care is taken to accurately relay information provided to us. Readers are advised by the publishers to ensure that all necessary safety devices and precautions are installed and safe working procedures adopted before the use of any equipment found or purchased through the information we provide. Further, all performance criteria was provided by the representative company concerned and any dispute should be referred to them. Information indicating that products are made in Australia or New Zealand is supplied by the source company. Westwick-Farrow Pty Ltd does not quantify the amount of local content or the accuracy of the statement made by the source.

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State of the art Advanced Power Quality Analyser & Metering Functionality EM720

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STANDARDS • Power Quality Performance Compliance IEC61000-4-30 Class A • Harmonic IEC61000-4-7 • Flicker IEC61000-4-15 • Voltage Compliance EN50160

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