BYE-BYE FLUORESCENT LAMPS…

In the interests of environmental and climate protection, countries across Europe have lighting products in their sights. It has taken up the fight against inefficient light sources with the Single Lighting Regulation (SLR) and the Energy Labelling Regulation (ELR), and against the use of mercury with the RoHS Directive.

As a result, compact fluorescent lamps and fluorescent lamps can no longer be placed on the market from specific dates in 2023-2024. We talked to Axel Klöckner, Key Account Manager Industry at LEDVANCE, about the effects of the ban and the alternatives.

ECN: What does the 2023 lamp ban mean to you?

AK: LEDVANCE is well prepared and has excellent alternatives in its range. Even so, we face major challenges where across Europe, the ban will affect over a billion light sources. Compact fluorescent lamps with plug-in bases can no longer be placed on the UK market as of February 2024; the same equivalent date for T5 and T8 fluorescent tubes. In most cases, switching to LED technology will require the services of an electrician – and according to a recent survey, almost 50% of installers are unfamiliar or insufficiently familiar with the situation. Time is running out.

ECN: What are the alternatives?

AK: We offer four separate options to meet different needs – two solutions that are lamp-based and two that are luminaire-based. If lamps are to be replaced we have the retrofit option, in other words simple direct replacement, or the conversion option, i.e. rewiring to 230V. In the case of luminaires, we offer luminaire-inluminaire upgrades or installation of new LED luminaires.

ECN: And which do you recommend?

AK: That depends on the situation on site. New luminaires are more likely to be considered for large-scale refurbishments and new construction projects. In most cases, however, simple lamp replacement should be the most economically sensible solution.

ECN: How is that economically sensible? LED tubes are much more expensive than conventional fluorescent tubes...

AK: That’s true. But don’t forget the enormous energy savings of well over 50% and the extremely long life of LED tubes of up to 75,000 hours. Compared to a traditional fluorescent lamp, a single LED tube saves not only on energy costs amounting to several hundred euros over its lifetime but also on maintenance costs. The return on investment is just a few months on average, and a little longer for the rewiring option.

ECN: So, do you prefer direct replacement to rewiring?

AK: Certainly not. The retrofit solution only works with conventional control gear (CCG) or compatible electronic control gear (ECG). What you often find in places such as workshops, factories and warehouses, particularly after maintenance work has been carried out, is a mix of control gear within the same lighting system. Direct replacement will not then work for all the luminaires, but you usually only find that out after installing the replacements. In such cases it makes more sense to rewire straight away to 230V. Conversion increases the initial costs a little, but the results are impressive – and since there are no longer any energy losses at the control gear after rewiring, efficiency is even higher.

ECN: How long does rewiring take?

AK: The installer will need about 10 minutes per luminaire. The work itself is really straightforward. We provide instructions and offer a conversion kit with all the necessary materials, including a type plate that indicates the voltage of 230V.

ECN: Do people have to change all the light sources by the deadline?

AK: Fluorescent lamps that are already installed can be safely used until they fail. However, companies should bear in mind that changing all the light sources at the same time is more economical as it reduces the replacement costs per light source. Switching to LED lights is worthwhile in any case in view of recent increases in the cost of electricity. So, if the light sources in a factory are to be changed it makes sense to include all the offices at the same time. After all, the lights would all have to be changed as soon as individual fluorescent lamps start to fail there.

ECN: Many people are sceptical about switching to LED tubes. What do you say to them?

AK: Switching to LED tubes is inexpensive and easy to do. In addition to a wide range of LED tubes, we offer the first DALI-2 solution that is dimmable and suitable for emergency power in the form of our new External System consisting of an LED tube and an external driver. Our popular Damp Proof Housing, in combination with SubstiTUBE T8 Connected, is a cost-effective solution featuring wireless presence detection, making it ideal for parking garages, warehouses and corridors. We also offer LED tubes with an integrated sensor. And anyway, there is no way around the changeover for anyone. I advise everyone in the lighting industry to actively engage with your customers now and start switching as the demand is identified.

LEDVANCE, ledvance.co.uk

Switchtec has announced the appointment of Chris Hibbert to its expanding National Wholesale team. With Switchtec’s continued growth in the wholesale market, Chris will be working closely with Nick Morgan, the company’s current Wholesale Manager, to enhance the support provided to wholesalers.

Chris brings with him extensive knowledge of the wholesale sector, having dedicated the last 20 years to working with national and independent electrical distributors. His experience includes a successful 14-year role at Chint Europe UK, where he gained invaluable expertise and a deep understanding of the industry. With his comprehensive understanding of the workings of the wholesale sector and insight into what wholesalers seek in a supplier and its products, Chris will contribute significantly to Switchtec’s growth strategy.

Chris says, “I am delighted to be joining Switchtec, as I have known the company and senior members of staff for several years and found the products and customer service to be of excellent quality. I look forward to developing the business and achieving the goals and ambitions of the company alongside a fantastic team of people.” Switchtec, switchtec.com

Snickers Workwear summerwear – long-lasting, innovative fabrics for comfort, sustainability and longevity.

Clothes change as the seasons do. That’s why Snickers Workwear’s summer working clothes for professional tradesmen and women combine superior comfort and protection for beating the heat on site.

This summer’s LITEWork range combines all the features of high-performance sportswear. Its 37.5

Technology fabric technology is quick-drying and functional, as well as providing UPF 40+ sun protection. It’s also longer lasting than other comparable workwear, making it a sensible, sustainable choice.

There’s also new trousers, shirts, shorts, jackets and high-vis summer clothes with new styles and stretch features for enhanced freedom of movement, including trousers that feature the bio-based Sorona fibre for a more sustainable fit on site.

But for the ultimate in working comfort, durability and ventilation, check out the LiteWork garments for precisely the right clothes to fit your workday in summer.

Snickers Workwear, snickersworkwear.co.uk

ESP has added a new range of products to its Aperta access control portfolio. The new Aperta IP PoE (Power over Ethernet) collection provides quick and easy to install door entry solutions for a wide range of projects, covering large apartment blocks to small commercial properties and domestic dwellings.

The new IP access control range is designed to offer more flexible installation and improved performance compared with traditional ‘2-wire’ and ‘4-wire’ systems. The IP range comprises a visitor Multi Way and a Single Way outdoor station to suit a range of project applications, and a feature-packed video monitor to enhance user preferences, complete with app facility. All devices are connected together via PoE switches, making installations convenient by removing the requirement to have a power supply per device. In addition, unlike other options on the market, the Aperta IP door entry system does not require programming software to configure the system.

ESP, espuk.com

Marshall-Tufflex has launched a new CPD course, accredited by the CPD Certification Service, that details the recycling and sustainability properties of PVC-U cable management systems. Aimed at contractors, specifiers and consultants, the one-hour seminar will explain how these systems can benefit projects and best practices for specification.

The new CPD also forms part of the manufacturer’s campaign to emphasise the need to reduce the estimated 120 million tonnes of waste produced by the construction industry each year, and instead, re-use PVC-U material for manufacturing rather than going to landfill.

Delivered in person at a preferred site or customer premises, this CPD provides an overview of how recycled material is used within PVC-U cable management systems and how its use can aid sustainability and the circular economy.

Martin Russell, Group Product Manager at Marshall-Tufflex, comments, “We are actively engaged in developing new and innovative cable management solutions that use recycled materials. We are delighted to launch our first CPD with the aim of increasing awareness about sustainability and the circular economy and making those solutions more accessible.”

Marshall-Tufflex, marshall-tufflex.com

Armorduct, a manufacturer of standard and bespoke cable management systems, has launched a new range of IP4X trunking that will prove faster and easier to install on site.

The company’s newly designed solution is manufactured in the UK using locally sourced steel, making it a more environment friendly alternative for contractors when compared to other solutions.

The trunking is available off the shelf with all the accessories, fixtures and fittings supplied as fully assembled components for every order. The fixtures are all supplied with captive fittings and overlap covers, the latter to achieve the IP4X rating, to save time on site. While the trunking is available in 3m lengths as standard, the company can also provide it cut to length for delivery to site, to save installation time and waste. As it’s designed and manufactured in the UK, the company can also quickly adapt bespoke trunking solutions to meet particular market needs and solutions.

Armorduct, armorduct.com

Ovia continues to expand its range of utility lighting and the latest addition is the company’s first industrial, rectangular bulkhead. REX is the name given to the new range of 5W IP65 CTA Rectangular LED Bulkheads and they are available in Standard, Emergency or with Photocell.

All REX LED Bulkheads are toolless gear tray entry. They are CTA switchable via the DIP switches in the following colour temperatures: 3000K, 4000K and 6500K. They also come with a three-year warranty.

The IP65 rating offers flexibility of application, making the REX suitable for large indoor areas as well as for external use – providing lighting for locations such as walkways or gardens.

The REX Bulkhead has a black base and can be wall or ceiling mounted. There is an optional black rectangular trim, as well as an optional red rectangular diffuser. Ovia’s full range of lighting solutions can be seen in the latest Ovia catalogue –issue 4 – which can be downloaded from the Ovia website. Ovia, oviauk.com

Transport all your tools safely and reliably with the Robust26 Move tool case from KNIPEX. Made of impact-resistant polypropylene, this case is fit-to-fly, temperature-resistant, dustproof and waterproof, making it perfect for even the most demanding tasks and toughest of operating conditions.

When you need to move lots of tools safely, the new Robust26 Move tool case from KNIPEX (00 21 33 LE) is ideal. With an extendable, ergonomic handle, smooth-running wheels and an automatic pressure compensation valve, it is great for plane, train or van. It is also impact resistant, thanks to its tough polypropylene shell and is temperature-stable from -30°C to +80°C.

The interior of this extremely flexible case consists of 19 tool pockets, 61 straps and a document compartment. The tool boards with the tool pockets and straps are made from dirt-repellent PP twin-wall sheets, while the lockable base tray can be divided individually using an aluminium divider system. KNIPEX, knipex.com

ElectricalDirect has extended its unbeatable range to offer more commercial lighting solutions from leading brands, including JCC and Integral LED.

Over 40 new commercial lighting products have been introduced from the trusted JCC brand, including the JCC Toughbay 150W LED High Bay Dimmable Light with 21,750 lumens and the 30,000-lumen JCC Toughbay 200W LED High Bay Dimmable Light with Microwave Sensor.

To offer even more choice to customers, the online supplier has also added over 50 new products from Integral LED, including its Lightspan Batten range. Ideal for indoor commercial spaces where bright task lighting is required, Lightspan Battens provide an energy efficient alternative to T8 fluorescent tube fittings.

For emergency lighting applications, the retailer has extended its stocked range to include solutions for both maintained and non-maintained operation. The lineup includes the JCC 3W Emergency Maintained/Non-Maintained LED Bulkhead Light. Supplied with directional arrow/left/right running man legends as standard and visible from a distance of 18m, these fixtures are crucial for a quick and safe evacuation.

ElectricalDirect, electricaldirect.co.uk

WARMUP LAUNCES UPDATED DCM-PRO HEATED DECOUPLING SYSTEM

Warmup has announced a new update to it DCM-PRO Heated Decoupling System. DCM-PRO is a popular electric underfloor heating solution with installers around the world due to its innovative anti-fracture protection and ease of installation. To provide even greater versatility, DCM-PRO has been redeveloped with an optimised castellation design and two different membrane options: the classic Peel and Stick, featuring a self-adhesive backing, and a new fleece-backed option for use with traditional adhesives.

The new DCM-PRO membrane with fleece-backing has been designed to use with adhesives on uneven subfloors, offering a more conventional floor heating installation method. The fleece-backed membrane means subfloors are not required to be smooth before fitting the heating system, saving time on additional preparation.

The DCM-PRO fleece-backed membrane is ideal for installation with adhesives during the colder months of the year as it can be installed over damp floors, facilitating a secure bond with the subfloor despite difficult environmental conditions. And since tile adhesive typically takes some time to dry, the membrane can be adjusted during the initial installation, so any laying errors can be quickly corrected with little stress.

The next generation of the DCM-PRO Heated Decoupling System features an updated castellation design for an even smoother installation. Fitting the heating cable by hand within the castellations is now easier than ever and the softer material used for the membrane will provide less strain during installation. DCM-PRO with a fleece-backing allows for a wider selection of levelling compounds to be used too. It is approved by Instarmac for use with S1 adhesive, Level IT 2 and Level IT Ultimate levelling compounds, offering true versatility for your next underfloor heating installation.

The updated DCM-PRO retains an ultra-low profile, so it will still have a negligible effect on floor build-up heights, making it the perfect heating solution for both renovation and new-build projects. It is available in clear, convenient sizes and can assist in reducing energy usage by up to 35% compared to traditional radiator systems.

Knightsbridge has enhanced its range pioneering 45W USB charging solutions with the introduction of four additional decorative finishes in the company’s popular screwless format.

At the time of their initial launch, Knightsbridge’s 45W USB sockets and modules were the fastest chargers available on the market and still remain at the top of the competitive tree. Now, beyond curved or square edge moulded sockets in white, these powerful 230V 13A two-gang switched USB sockets come in anthracite, matt black, matt white and brushed chrome.

The sockets offer up to 45W PD (Power Delivery) over a USB-C port and 18W QC (Quick Charge) over a USB-A port. This means that power-hungry devices like laptops can be charged from wall outlets with compatible cables using a 45W USB-C port and without the need for bulky adapters. QC devices (mainly android-based smartphones) can be charged at up to 18W, allowing for a quick charge of up to 50% in under 30 minutes with compatible smartphones.

Knightsbridge, mlaccessories.co.uk

And with a choice of two heating cables, you can specify the system for standard wattage projects of between 112.5W/m²-225W/m² and low wattage projects of between 41.3W/m²-82.5W/m².

The DCM-PRO Heated Decoupling System can be controlled by Warmup’s award-winning Smart Thermostats, and is supported by Warmup’s market-leading digital tools and globally trusted 24/7/365 technical assistance.

Warmup, hubs.la/Q01Tsd_x0

Meridian Lighting has introduced an advanced range of high output LED GU10 lamps at very affordable prices. Available in three colour output options – 3000/warm white, 4000/cool white and 6500/daylight, this new LAGU series comprises 4.5W and 4.9W non-dimmable plus 4.5W dimmable versions.

Whilst delivering high lumen outputs of 345lm and 500lm respectively comprises the key point of difference for these lamps, they also feature instant non-flickering light, are mercury free and have no UV output.

Manufactured with a polycarbonate resistant cover and lamp base, these ultra-modern GU10s feature a lightweight thermal shell in order to dissipate heat more effectively.

This excellent value for money range is UK/CA, CE and MEPS approved and ERP2 compliant. Stocks of all GU10 variants are fully available with the 4.5W non dimmable lamp also sold in multi-pack format.

CED Electrical, cedelectrical.co.uk

YOU HAVE THE PROBLEM. WE HAVE THE SOLUTION. LED TUBES FROM LEDVANCE : COMPLIANT, ENERGY-SAVING AND SUSTAINABLE.

The new BATSC range of LED battens from Knightsbridge provide energy-efficient, cost-effective and technologically-advanced replacement alternatives to outdated legacy fluorescent lighting in industrial, commercial or office environments.

The BATSC (batten, self-contained) units are colour, temperature and wattage adjustable, offering ultra-high efficiency, and contain the latest control chip technology. Highly durable owing to their steel and polycarbonate construction, the battens are low maintenance and long-lived in operation, with an estimated lamp life of nearly seven years or 60,000 hours of continuous use.

Three variants of the battens are available, all offered in 4’, 5’ and 6’ lengths and in standard or emergency versions.

The range is led by the BATSCW, which is the most cost-effective ‘go to’ version for the majority of straightforward applications, while still delivering advanced versatility through its wattage and CCT adjustability. Depending on length, BATSCW wattages are adjustable from 18 through to 52W (4’ – 18/32W, 5’ – 22/41W and 6’ – 27/52W) and in three temperatures: 3000K warm white, 4000K bright, neutral white and 5700K daylight. Knightsbridge, mlaccessories.co.uk

Unicrimp continues to expand its popular Q-Crimp range of cable accessories to provide installers with an increasing number of problem-solving products. The latest additions are a Green Earth Inspection Box and Hexagon Plain Driller Screws.

Designed to house and help protect the connection to an earth point, the new Green Earth Inspection Box forms part of the company’s growing earthing rods and components range, which was first introduced in 2019. Measuring 100mm x 100mm x 50mm, it is constructed from PA66 to provide high mechanical strength and it is supplied complete with lid, fixings and a safety label.

Joining Unicrimp’s extensive Q-Crimp range of fixings are the new Hexagon Head Plain Driller Screws. These robust screws are designed to save valuable installation time with no need for pre-drilling. Because they are self-drilling, this eliminates the need for a pre-drilled pilot hole, as the screw performs the drilling, tapping and fastening in one action.

Unicrimp, unicrimp.com

As electrical contractors look towards decorative wiring accessories to achieve a smooth, clean finish for interiors, the demand for flat plate wiring accessories that compliment a room’s décor has been on the rise. In response to this, the Definity Complete range, which incorporates screwless, push-fit face plates, has now been extended to include the stylish Antique Brass finish.

Definity Complete has evolved from Click Scolmore’s well-established Definity flat plate accessory range and features all of the same attributes, including modular switching, but without the visible fixing screws. Because the face plates are supplied independently of the electrical inserts, it means that the initial installation of the product can be carried out and any subsequent maintenance or decoration completed before the final fixing of the face plate.

The inserts are available in black, white and grey and the addition of Antique Brass to the range of cover plate finishes brings the total number of finishes to eight. Scolmore, scolmore.com

KNIPEX Needle-Nose Pliers are high leverage combination pliers with pointed jaws and are a further development of the classic combination pliers from the famous KNIPEX Wuppertal tool forge. Needle-Nose pliers are now also available in a length of 185mm. With the versatile Needle-Nose combination pliers, tasks in the professional workshop and on electrical installations can be carried out effortlessly as these slim pliers can even cope perfectly with tight, hard-to-reach work areas.

Building on the classic KNIPEX combination pliers, these flexible pliers are twist-proof and full of power. A high lever transmission power joint makes it easier to cut soft, medium-hard and hard wire, making the pliers a high leverage diagonal cutter.

The convex profile of the serrations in the pipe gripping area results in a stable three-point contact and means round pipes can be easily gripped and powerfully turned. Hexagonal profiles can also be powerfully turned. A milled transverse groove in the gripping area also makes it easy to securely hold and pull out even tiny items such as nails, pins and bolts.

KNIPEX, knipex.com