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VOLUME 42 NO. 01 • JANUARY 2022
SPECIAL FEATURE: CIRCUIT PROTECTION & SWITCHGEAR
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ELECTRICALCONTRACTINGNEWS.COM
SPECIAL FEATURE: EV CHARGING
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SPECIAL FEATURE: EMERGENCY LIGHTING
40
BUMPER LIGHTING CATALOGUE FROM OVIA Now entering its third year of trading as an independent lighting organisation, Ovia continues to invest in new products and solutions for the professional electrical contract market and has launched its third and biggest catalogue of products to date. At over 400 pages, the Ovia Issue 3 catalogue boasts an additional 100 pages on the previous edition and brings to designers, contractors and specifiers a comprehensive product guide that covers the entire range on offer. It includes a raft of new additions as well as some improved products, and they are brought to market on the back of continual engagement with contractors to ensure that the products and solutions they seek are developed and available through the wholesale channel.
Turn to page 10 for the full story
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CONTENTS
CONTENTS… Regulars 4 Editorial Happy New Year!
6 Industry News Electricians are most likely to feel proud of their work; Ansell Lighting gives kickstart to young employees; Toolstation offers tradespeople one-year accounting software subscription; and more
10 Cover Story Bumper lighting catalogue from Ovia
12 Contract News Glasgow Science Centre invests in Hanwha Techwin video surveillance; SPIE wins Allander Leisure Centre contract; Winner announced of new multi-million pound HVAC contract; and more
VOLUME 42 NO. 01 • JANUARY 2022
SPECIAL FEATURES: Circuit Protection & Switchgear 24 A new year full of changes AI-empowered 26 Silicon-based electrical endpoints will usher in a second electrical revolution boards: the heart 28 Distribution of your electrical system in all domestic 30 SPDs properties in the future?
14 Training CEDIA makes training accessible for electricians
16 Key Issue The big retrofit checklist
18 Project Focus LEDFlex lighting solutions lights up the Londoner Hotel
20 Interview Carly Wills speaks to Hamilton’s Sales and Marketing Director, Gavin Williams, about making the switch from professional cycling to electrical wiring accessories, and what’s next for the business
EV Charging UK Kempower charging 32 First hub opens in Wolverhampton Ionity announces €700m 36 investment to enable rapid EV charging network expansion starts on the UK’s largest 38 Work public EV charging hub
22 Competition Win an EVIE 7.2W Smart Charge Unit, courtesy of Moss Electrical
45 Company Showcase Sponsored content from across the sector
Emergency Lighting emergency lighting 40 Self-test saves time and money
18
product where: Red 42 What Arrow’s site lighting simulation
Health & Safety message needs 44 Education to go viral
3 | January 2022
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EDITORIAL
NEXT TIME…
Wiring Accessories
Fire, Safety & Security
H
ello and welcome to the first issue of 2022! As we begin a new year, I would like to thank all of our contributors, advertisers and, of course, our readers, who helped make 2021 such a successful year for ECN. If you would like to submit an article or have any ideas for future content then please send me an email at carly@ allthingsmedialtd.com to discuss. Using new ONS data, Dominick Sandford, Managing Director at IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect, has taken a look back at 2021 and forward to 2022. He says that many of the most recent data releases show year-on-year improvements, which suggest a positive start to 2022. Overall, the total number of people employed in UK construction has risen 3.5% year-on-year and now stands at 2.2 million. The amount of unemployed people in construction has fallen steadily over the last few months and now stands at 58,000, which is 22% less than the same period last year.
Published monthly by All Things Media Ltd., Suite 14, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Kent ME5 8UD. Tel: 01634 673163 Fax: 01634 673173
The amount of self-employed construction workers remains exactly the same as last year, at 248,000. In the electrical industry, recent drop offs have not been enough to prevent a year-onyear increase, with 4,000 more self-employed workers now than a year ago. Income dropped between September (£685) and October (£673), but the most recent average is still the third highest of the year, and £20 up from 2020. “It would be naïve to think that the industry has totally recovered from the pandemic,” Dominick says, “especially with the new Omicron variant potentially causing disruption in the new year, but it’s great to see that in many areas, the trades are making significant strides forward.” This issue is packed full of features including Circuit Protection & Switchgear, Electric Vehicle Charging and Emergency Lighting, as well as all of the regulars. This month’s competition is one not to miss, as Moss Electrical is offering one lucky winner the chance to win an EVIE 7.2KW Smart Charge Unit, so please don’t forget to enter! See you next month!
UPS, Power & Energy
Carly Wills, Editor
Special Supplement: Smart Buildings
February Issue Editorial deadline: January 20 Advertising deadline: January 27
EDITOR: CARLY WILLS T: 01634 673163 E: carly@allthingsmedialtd.com
STUDIO: MARK WELLER T: 01634 673163 E: mark@allthingsmedialtd.com
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ACCOUNTS T: 01634 673163 E: susan@allthingsmedialtd.com
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INDUSTRY NEWS TOOLSTATION OFFERS TRADESPEOPLE ONE-YEAR ACCOUNTING SOFTWARE SUBSCRIPTION Toolstation has launched an offer designed to help electricians, plumbers, carpenters, builders and other tradespeople save money and help them run their businesses more conveniently. Existing and new Trade Credit Account customers can secure a free year subscription to Quickbooks accounting software. The launch comes as research by Toolstation reveals that 40% of tradespeople manage their own accounts, but 60% of those don’t use any software to help. In fact, 26% of tradespeople find keeping on top of paperwork the most challenging aspect of their job. The initiative has been launched as HMRC is set to introduce its Making Tax Digital rules from April 2023. Under these new rules, any business or sole trader with an income of over £10,000 will have to file returns to HMRC quarterly instead of annually as they currently do. In practical terms it means they will need to use compatible software to keep their records and send an income and expenses summary to HMRC every three months. Toolstation’s Trade Credit Business Development Manager, Renato Vieira, says: “It’s clear from our research that almost half of tradespeople manage their own accounts and that’s one of the reasons we have launched this new initiative, to give them a helping hand. While the Making Tax Digital rules are intended to make filing tax returns easier, many don’t currently use any software to help them, so we would encourage anyone with a Trade Credit Account to take advantage of this free offer to help them with their paperwork and quickly prepare for these new rules.” Toolstation, toolstation.com
APPRENTICES OF THE YEAR CROWNED BY SJIB AND EDMUNDSON ELECTRICAL Two young electricians have been recognised for their exceptional talent in the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) Apprentice of the Year awards, sponsored by Edmundson Electrical. Cameron Wood and Patrick Henderson were presented with their awards and certificates in special ceremonies with their respective employers. Cameron proudly lifted the 2021 trophy, while Patrick received the 2020 award which had to be delayed due to lockdown. Both also received £500 from the SJIB and £500 from Edmundson Electrical. Cameron is now a qualified electrician who works for JS Hardie Electrical in Lauder, Berwickshire, after completing his studies at Borders College in Galashiels. The 21-year-old says: “I was really surprised when I found out I’d won this award; I definitely didn’t expect it and it’s made all the hard work and sleepless nights worthwhile!” After successfully completing his training, 2020 winner Patrick now works for Atalian Servest AMK in Loanhead, Midlothian, after studying at Forth Valley College in Falkirk. The 23-year-old says: “When I started my apprenticeship, it didn’t even cross my mind that I’d win an award like this. I just saw it as a job but it turns out I was good at it!” Scottish Joint Industry Board, sjib.org.uk
LIVERPOOL JOHN MOORES UNIVERSITY SELECTS SALISBURY GROUP FOR HARD FM SERVICES Facilities management company, Salisbury Group, has won a contract with Liverpool John Moores University for building, electrical and mechanical maintenance services. The deal covers planned and reactive works across 37 different buildings in the city of Liverpool. The contract will run for a maximum of five years and is expected to be worth over £1.5 million per year. The agreement is the fifth university contract that the company has won and mobilised in less than two years. Salisbury’s Group Managing Director, Andrew Lunt, commented: “We are delighted to win this contract with an excellent new client. This is our fifth and newest partnership in the university sector, and it reflects how a values-led and people-focused business can succeed with like-minded clients. We have a great team on site who are now working hard to help the facilities run as effectively as possible for students and staff alike.” Liverpool John Moores has grown to be one of the best-established universities in the UK. Its five faculties produce leading research that influences policy makers, improves people’s lives, and finds solutions to the problems of today. The university is constantly looking to improve its offering to students, with ambitious plans for the further development of the campus. Salisbury Group, salisburygroup.com
6 | January 2022
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INDUSTRY NEWS ELECTRICIANS ARE MOST LIKELY TO FEEL PROUD OF THEIR WORK Tradespeople are significantly more likely to love their jobs than the average working Brit, with over half saying they really enjoy what they do, according to new research. The study, by IronmongeryDirect, asked UK tradespeople about their level of job satisfaction and found that 56% are happy with their careers, compared to just 37% across all industries. Additionally, nearly half (47%) of tradespeople are proud of the work they do and around a third say they are happy with both their work-life balance (32%) and level of income (31%). Tradies were also asked exactly which parts of their work they find the most enjoyable. The most popular answer was interaction with customers (22%), while the ability to continually learn on the job also ranked highly (21%). The top five things tradespeople enjoy about their work are: • Interacting with customers – 22% • Learning something new – 21% • Working outdoors – 20% • Job variety – 20% • Seeing visible accomplishments each day – 19% When it comes to individual trades, bricklayers are the most likely tradespeople to say they enjoy their job (69%), but interestingly are also the least likely to feel proud of their work (19%). Electricians (63%) and plumbers (61%) also have really high job satisfaction, while at the other end of the table, building surveyors are the least likely tradespeople to enjoy their work (43%). Painter decorators and electricians are the most likely tradies to feel a sense of pride about their work (58%).
Millennial tradespeople are the least likely to enjoy their job, with only 43% stating that they like their work, whilst those over the age of 65 have the greatest career satisfaction (69%). More men said they enjoy their job (60%) than women (50%), but women are more likely to be proud of their work (51% vs 45%). IronmongeryDirect, ironmongerydirect.co.uk
ANSELL LIGHTING GIVES KICKSTART TO YOUNG EMPLOYEES Ansell Lighting has lent its support to a £2 billion government initiative designed to support young people aged 16-24 years into employment. As part of the government’s Kickstart scheme, Ansell Lighting has provided five young people, who were facing the prospect of long-term unemployment, with six-month job placements. Danielle Hazeldine and Molly Jones have been employed as Returns Administrators, whilst Haaroon Amin and Shannon Cragg have joined the business as Sales Order Processors. Reice Seerey has secured a role at Ansell’s lighting manufacturing operation as a Production Operative. All of the applicants were previously claiming Universal Credit and struggling to secure work. Ansell Lighting worked closely with Kickstart project, setting up a new recruitment process where senior Ansell managers attended local Jobcentres to assist the efficiency of the selection process. Sarah Ankers, HR Director of Ansell Lighting says: “As a business, we are pleased to have been able to fully support this initiative. As well as introducing new talent for our business it has given us the opportunity to offer young people in our community the chance to learn transferable skills that are aimed at increasing their chances of sustained employment.” Ansell Lighting, anselluk.com
T-LEVEL STUDENTS BENEFIT FROM NET FUTURE FARADAYS EVENT Leicester College’s T-Level students found out more about the electrical industry, apprenticeships and employability at an interactive ‘Future Faradays’ event that took place recently. The Future Faradays programme is an initiative from electrical industry charity, National Electrotechnical Training (NET), that aims to inspire and inform full time electrical students about the industry, the proper way to become fully qualified, and the opportunities available to them. During the event, around 50 students heard informative talks from Stuart Wiles and Lucy Willett, final year electrical apprentices at Leicester City Council, qualified electrician Stephanie Ward from PA Housing Association, project engineer Miah McCullagh from Elmleigh Electrical Services and Neil McManus, Leicester College’s Construction T-Level programme manager. After the presentations, students had the opportunity to interact directly with each speaker during networking sessions to explore each topic in more detail. The students’ own presentation skills were also put to the test after they were set a challenging task to improve classroom lighting efficiency. Students had been working in teams over the previous two weeks and, at the event, presented their research and solutions to the industry speakers. After each team was judged on the quality of their presentation, teamwork, research and solution, the top two winning teams were presented with a range of prizes from CK Tools and Scolmore. National Electrotechnical Training, netservices.org.uk
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20/12/2021 14:05
INDUSTRY NEWS TRADES TURN TO DIGITAL TOOLS AS WORKLOADS KEEP RISING UK trades firms are investing more in technology to stay on top of costs and manage the increase in demand they predict going into 2022, according to a study by field service software provider, BigChange, and independent research consultancy, Opinium. The study shows that 85% of firms expect to be busier over the next 12 months, and nearly one-in-five (17%) anticipate that workloads will at least double. Expectations of growth are highest among building maintenance, facilities management, cleaning and waste management firms. At least 88% of business leaders surveyed from these sectors said they expected workloads to increase going into 2022. But growing demand doesn’t mean plain sailing in the year ahead. 73% of respondents said increasing costs for materials and fuel would reduce their profitability in 2022, and 69% said that the higher price of labour would negatively impact their finances. Almost all (94%) of the firms surveyed expected to increase technology spending in 2022 to help manage extra demand and rising costs. A quarter (23%) say they will spend at least 50% more on digital tools than in the last 12 months. The median – or middle of the pack – firm expects to increase technology spending by 11% in the next 12 months. Median firms plan to employ 7% more people and increase broader investment in their business by 10% over the same period. 82% of leaders told researchers that good practice in their sector now involved using digital systems to manage their businesses. More than half (54%) said that operations should be automated and optimised within a single system. BigChange, bigchange.com
NORTH-WEST LONDONERS TO BENEFIT FROM £1 MILLION SCHEME North-West London is set to benefit from a new £1 million investment to upgrade the electricity network. Work is currently underway to install a new grid supply point in Willesden. The new equipment replaces existing equipment which has been installed for decades and will be decommissioned. This will help to meet future demand of local power supplies in Willesden and the surrounding areas. The project, by electricity distribution firm UK Power Networks started in May 2020 and is due to finish in March 2022, providing power for the equivalent of 2600 homes. As part of the scheme, the firm has consulted local councils and other interested parties to ensure that people experience as little disruption as possible while installation work takes place. Joshua Alderdice, project manager at UK Power Networks, says: “This cable upgrade is part of our ongoing investment in the network to maintain reliable power supplies. The aim is to test the cable connections as we go along, to ensure a smooth transition for when the project is completed next year.” UK Power Networks, ukpowernetworks.co.uk
NAPIT LAUNCHES NEW DIGITAL MEMBER ID CARD NAPIT has introduced a new membership identity card app to make it quicker and easier for customers to verify the competence of NAPIT members. NAPIT electrical members can now access their new digital ID card anytime and anywhere, be it online or offline. The introduction of this new digital ID card makes NAPIT the first certification body in the electrical industry to offer this service. Mike Andrews, CEO at NAPIT Group, says: “Our world today is undeniably one which is focused and reliant on digital technologies and advancements. With this in mind, we are very proud to launch our digital ID app that allows our electrical members to access their membership ID card on-the-go via their smartphones, with or without internet connection. “As a business, we are committed to enhancing safety and promoting competence in the sector. This digital ID app allows our members to demonstrate their certification scope in a clear and easy way to their customers. The additional benefit of a QR code, on the card, allows the customer to verify the member’s identity and competence, enhancing this offering further.” NAPIT services such as technical support and customer services are also easily accessible via the app. NAPIT, napit.org.uk
CEF REVEALS A NEW NAME AND FRESH LOOK FOR ITS WIMBLEDON STORE
MOVERS & SHAKERS…
The CEF store based in the famous London postcode of SW19, is rebranding as CEF Wimbledon. Previously known as CEF’s Merton store, it’s one of 390 branches of the nationwide electrical distributor that stocks over 3,000 everyday essential electrical products. The Wimbledon store has always been well stocked and ready to supply customers with everything from cables and lamps to sockets, ventilation, heating and switchgear from its trade counter, and it’s hoped that its new name will prevent future confusion about its location. Group Manager, Dan Alimardani comments: “There was sometimes a bit of head scratching about our store name, with customers not realising exactly where we are. We hope that changing our store name will lead to CEF Wimbledon becoming as famous for its outstanding service as the world-class players at our neighbouring tennis club.” The SW19 postcode is famous worldwide as the home of the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club, home to the Wimbledon Tennis Championships. Wimbledon is actually a district and town in the Borough of Merton in south-west London, England.
Hylec-APL has announced the appointment of Andrew Ferney as Wholesale Director. Andrew will spearhead a drive to heighten the company’s presence in the wholesale electrical trade and increase sales of Hylec’s comprehensive range of electrical products. Andrew has spent 35 years working in the electrical industry, having held senior sales and management positions within the electrical wholesale, manufacturing and lighting sectors. Ellis Patents has strengthened its UK-based export team with the appointment of Alex Floyd as Export Sales Executive. The Rillingtonbased cable cleat manufacturer is currently active in 45 export markets; and Alex’s appointment means the company now has a five strong export sales team based in the UK.
CEF, cef.co.uk
8 | January 2022
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YOUR ELECTRICAL
SUPPLIES, SERVICE & SOLUTIONS Untitled-4 2
20/12/2021 09:59
COVER STORY
LIGHTING UP THE SECTOR With an impressive 900 individual product lines featured in Ovia’s latest catalogue, installers can have confidence that there is a lighting product or solution to meet their every requirement. The comprehensive Ovia collection covers a wide range of applications and includes domestic, amenity, controls, commercial, industrial, utility, floodlighting, and emergency lighting.
T
he company has continued to invest to ensure it offers an extensive range of products that are contractor friendly, innovative and cover a broad spectrum of applications. Ovia has a huge resource to call on and a very experienced team in place to manage stocks and the supply chain to ensure that the company continues to deliver a first class service to its customers.
Shining lights for 2022 Here the company highlights some of the new products it believes will be star performers during 2022.
New floodlighting additions
E-Sprite is a range of recessed LED downlights with CTA switch
Inceptor Ace is a range of adjustable, LED asymmetric floodlights. Asymmetric floodlights are superior in concentrating light where it is needed by using reflectors to direct light in front of the fixture where illuminance is required. With symmetric floodlights, on the other hand, the light is distributed evenly in all directions. The Inceptor Ace floodlights are IP65 rated and are available in a black finish, in 50W, 100W, 150W, 200W and 300W versions,
with 4000K cool white LEDs. They are supplied with a 2m pre-wired cable flex for quick and easy installation, and a fully adjustable aluminium mounting bracket, which allows full control of the projection angle. Photocell versions are also available, offering all the features and benefits of the standard fitting described above. The photocell versions turn the light on when the light level drops under 10-20 lux and turns the light off once the light level is over 30-60 lux. Inceptor Murus is an LED Wall Pack with CTA Switch and a robust IK10 rated housing that makes it ideal in outdoor settings. The IP66 rated fitting is designed to be fast and simple to install and is available in 15W and 25W options and in a choice of standard, photocell and emergency versions. The photocell version can assist with energy saving by allowing the light to turn on and off at set lux levels. Inceptor Murus will turn on when the lux level is below 10-30 lux. Installation of the Murus is quick and easy, thanks to the Push Fit/Piano Key Terminal Block and the floodlight can be Besa box or trunking mounted. All models include a CTA switch, allowing the product to change colour temperature between Warm White 3000K, Cool White 4000K and Daylight 6000K. It is available in anthracite grey or light grey and comes with a five-year warranty. The Gator LED Street Lighting range with CTA Switch and IK10 housing is ideal for lighting larger outdoor areas, such as car parks. They are designed to be easy to install via toolless entry and offer 50,000-hour lifetime, 85° x 150° beam angle and IP66 ingress protection. The shorting cap can be replaced with a photocell sensor to offer an energy saving feature. Gator is available in a grey finish and come with a five-year warranty.
New commercial products Added to the Commercial offer is the Sprite range of recessed TRIAC dimmable LED downlights with CTA switch. These IP54-rated aluminium downlights are supplied with TRIAC dimmable drivers which are pre-wired with a Fast Fit Flow connector or 3-in-1 multi-function dimming option for quick and easier installation. There are four sizes available – 3”, 5”, 6” and 8” diameter – and a choice of 13W, 18W, 25W and 35W versions,
10 | January 2022
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to cover a wide range of installation types and requirements. E-Sprite is a range of recessed LED downlights with CTA switch. These eco commercial downlights are available in 9W, 15W, 25W or 30W. They are supplied with a CTA switch as standard and are pre-wired with a Fast Fit Flow connector or 3-in-1 multi-function dimming option for quick and easier installation. There have also been new additions to the Amenity products section, including a range of new wall lights and ground lights. Within the Domestic section, new and improved versions of the popular Nano compact fire-rated LED adjustable and fixed downlight and the Inceptor Omni fire-rated tricolour dimmable downlight have been added. The new Nano V2 and Omni V2 are supplied with push-fit Flow connectors which feature push-in, low maintenance terminals to offer a time-saving benefit for installers. With the driver now incorporated into the Flow connector, this means that insulation can be laid over the fitting. Both also benefit from an improved lumen output. The full range of lighting solutions can be viewed in the Ovia Issue 3 catalogue which can be downloaded from the Ovia website and from the Scolmore Group app.
Ovia continues to invest in new products and solutions for the professional electrical contract market
At over 400 pages, the Ovia Issue 3 catalogue boasts an additional 100 pages on the previous edition
Ovia, oviauk.com
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20/12/2021 16:25
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11:06 01/12/2021 10:34
CONTRACT NEWS OVERCOMING DESIGN CHALLENGES FOR GATESHEAD’S NEW SCHOOL The lighting design of Gibside School, Gateshead’s new flagship state-of-the-art special needs primary school, wasn’t without its challenges. Vaulted and unique ceiling designs were soon overcome by the design team at Thorn Lighting. The team prepared a full interior and exterior lighting design layout for Wates Construction and McVickers Electrical Contractors for the £12.1 million design and build project. The new school accommodates 170 pupils, and the specially designed building includes a hydrotherapy pool with hoists, two halls, an internal sheltered courtyard, a multi-use games area with accessible gym equipment, sensory and soft playrooms, specialist changing facilities and offices for physiotherapy. The classrooms initially posed a problem, as the ceilings were vaulted and also flat in places, making uniformity an issue. Thorn’s IQ Wave range was the ideal solution. A combination of the suspended and surface mounted luminaires provide great uniformity and illumination levels for the classrooms. For the swimming pool lighting, a unique ceiling had to be incorporated into the design. This obstacle was overcome with the use of Thorn’s Areaflood Pro floodlights mounted directly and indirectly over the pool area. Thorn’s Hipak Pro high bay illuminates the sports hall, with a dedicated asymmetric optic, sports bracket for extra security and a high light output of up to 18500 lumens. Beta has been installed in the offices to provide a flexible, efficient, and long-lasting solution. The corridors have been lit using Thorn’s Chalice LED downlights and slim, circular Novaline luminaires. Glacier efficient decorative LED pendants with high lumen packages have been installed in the halls, creating a modern, fresh appearance.
Other interior luminaires installed include Cetus recessed downlights in the toilets and Aquaforce IP66, dust and moisture resistant LED luminaires in the plant area. For the exterior, Piazza II LED robust IP65 rated luminaires with a unique light distribution have been mounted on to the external walls. Thorn Lighting, thornlighting.com
FAST ENCLOSURE CUSTOMISATION SPEEDS UP SECURITY PROJECT UTILITIES COMPANY
GLASGOW SCIENCE CENTRE INVESTS IN HANWHA TECHWIN VIDEO SURVEILLANCE The Glasgow Science Centre has invested in a new video surveillance system from Hanwha Techwin to help create a safe environment for visitors who wish to enjoy the Centre’s extensive facilities, which include over 400 interactive exhibits, planetarium and a space zone. The contract to install the new video surveillance system, which features cameras sourced from Hanwha Techwin, was awarded to Scottish Communications Group. A total of 68 new Wisenet cameras have been installed at the Centre, 48 of which have been deployed as replacements for what was the old existing analogue cameras, whilst 20 additional cameras have been installed in new locations to negate any blind spots and give the Centre’s control room operators greater situational awareness. Scottish Communications Group took advantage of the advice available from Hanwha Techwin Europe’s pre-sales team to ensure that the most suitable Wisenet internal and external cameras were specified for each of the 68 camera locations. As a result, 40 cameras were selected from the Wisenet Q IP network series which, with built-in IR illumination, are able to capture clear, sharp two and four-megapxiel images, regardless of lighting conditions. These Bullet and mini-dome cameras also feature Wide Dynamic Range (WDR), which performs at up to 120dB to produce clear images from areas that present a challenging mix of bright and dark areas, such as the Centre’s reception area where strong sunlight is able to stream in. The remaining 28 Bullet, PTZ and mini-dome cameras have been selected from the Wisenet HD+ analogue series and are able to deliver superb quality two-megapixel HD images over coaxial cables. Images from the cameras are recorded on either a Pentabrid ‘hybrid’ recorder or a Wisenet NVR, with each of the five devices offering up to 12 terabytes of storage.
A UK electricity utility company has been provided with 100 customised enclosures within two weeks of order. Industrial enclosure manufacturer, Spelsberg, was able to provide a customised sample within an hour of request to Avanti Lighting, which had been contracted by the utility company to develop a weatherproof CCTV bracket and enclosure mounting system. Avanti Lighting supplies lighting and electrical products for commercial and industrial applications across the UK. Creating bespoke solutions for a range of largescale enterprises, Avanti Lighting was tasked by Spelsberg to develop a solution to mount and house swan neck CCTV cameras to be installed in outdoor locations at sites across the country. Avanti Lighting designed a bespoke corner bracket to fit the installation specification, providing a powder coating to match the cameras. In addition to achieving the correct angular position for the bracket, as well as a durable design, the utility company’s main requirement was ease of installation and fast project completion. Avanti Lighting’s bracket design enabled direct installation of the camera with a cable access point in the exact required position. To house the cameras, the enclosure needed to be fully weatherproof and sufficiently robust. At the same time, the enclosure had to precisely fit the required cable entry point and be easy to install. The project also had a rapid deadline and, as a result of previous project collaboration, Avanti Lighting turned to Spelsberg UK with its on-site, UK customisation facility to design and manufacture the bespoke enclosure. To protect against all weather elements, an IP67 TG enclosure was selected, providing total protection against dust as well as water ingress, meaning that the camera would remain safe and dry when installed outside. Constructed from polycarbonate, the enclosures would also provide durability from impact and UV protection. Spelsberg, spelsberg.com
Hanwha Techwin, hanwha-security.eu
12 | January 2022
Contract News.indd 12
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20/12/2021 14:08
CONTRACT NEWS Richard Baker/CC BY-SA 2.0
FLAMGARD CALIDAIR SECURES HVAC CONTRACTS FOR HINKLEY POINT C Hinkley Point C is the first nuclear power station to be built in the UK for over 20 years, and is the flagship development for the new era of nuclear power. Hinkley Point C will not only generate more energy than any other nuclear plant in the UK, its construction is setting the blueprint for a new age of energy production. With a great deal of experience in both new-build and decommissioning projects within the nuclear sector, Flamgard Calidair has secured a series of contracts for Hinkley Point C, including balancing, isolation and non-return dampers. Over the past three years, Flamgard has conducted and participated in several research and development projects for nuclear initiatives, and ultimately developed bespoke solutions specifically for Hinkley Point C. Designed to deliver across a range of key performance criteria depending on the application of each damper, Flamgard’s products will support safety throughout the Somerset-based complex. Flamgard Calidair has been successfully awarded the frame agreement by Axima Nucleaire to supply various damper categories which have been specifically designed, developed and tested for the stringent UK nuclear regulations, as well as project specifications. Flamgard Calidair, flamgard.co.uk
SPIE WINS ALLANDER LEISURE CENTRE CONTRACT SPIE UK has announced a new contract with McLaughlin and Harvey. The contract covers mechanical and electrical work and plumbing infrastructure in a new build leisure complex, complete with a separate energy centre, for East Dunbartonshire Council. SPIE UK will be completing a comprehensive mechanical design, including electrical and plumbing installations for the new Allander Leisure and Day Care Centre. With the site location in Milngavie, East Dunbartonshire, directly next to the existing live centre and new housing estate, the team has had to plan to overcome logistical challenges throughout
a 44-week duration. The SPIE UK team will be utilising its collective MEP skills to ensure and deliver a functional and efficient infrastructure. Jim Skivington, Divisional Managing Director at SPIE UK, says “We are thrilled to continue working with McLaughlin and Harvey as we build the mechanical, electrical and plumbing infrastructure for East Dunbartonshire Council’s latest development. Our commitment to delivering quality solutions and results is what sets SPIE UK apart in the market and is why we are the trusted contractor to so many in the public sector.” SPIE UK, spieuk.com
WINNERS ANNOUNCED OF NEW MULTI-MILLION POUND HVAC CONTRACT
PLUMBING AND ELECTRICAL COMPANY WINS COUNCIL CONTRACTS Ash Integrated Services has created eight jobs after being appointed by Lancashire County Council to provide planned and emergency heating and plumbing maintenance for hundreds of premises in the region. The Atherton-headquartered company will deliver around the clock cover for the mechanical heating systems on around 390 buildings operated by the council in the northern half of the county, including schools, libraries and colleges for the next three years, with an option to extend for a further two. Ash has also secured a contract to carry out planned and emergency electrical maintenance for buildings across the county for two years, again with an option to extend for an additional two. The newly created jobs include a number of help desk roles located at the company’s head office, and also positions for service engineers, to be based in the north of Lancashire itself. Company director Sean Jackson, who is part of the engineering team himself, says: “This new long-term contract will enable us to ensure systems across the council’s estate are working at optimal efficiency, with local engineers ready to respond round the clock to any emergencies. “As a company that also specialises in renewable and low carbon technologies, we also know that, when considering the whole life of a product, maintaining equipment properly can help prolong their useful lifespan and lead to lower emissions overall.” Ash Integrated Services, ashintegratedservices.co.uk
Balfour Beatty Kilpatrick and EJ Parker Technical Services have been appointed to deliver the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) at Sellafield over the next 18 years. HVAC is used in all facilities to regulate temperature and humidity on the Sellafield site. Traditionally at Sellafield, HVAC procurement has been done on a project-by-project basis. Through its multi-project procurement (MPP) approach, the programme and project partners seek to work with specialist partners across the life of the programme for greater gains and efficiency. The model will see the appointment of key delivery partners to deliver work packages covering everything from electrical and instrumentation and fabrication and manufacturing to groundworks and general civils. The HVAC scope is for the design (where appropriate), supply, install, test and commission of the HVAC system. The Framework agreement is 18 years in duration and will see the two partners support the programme and project partners over its life, with an estimated value of between £150 million to £250 million. Balfour Beatty, balfourbeatty.com
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January 2022 | 13
20/12/2021 14:08
SPECIAL TRAINING FEATURE
CEDIA MAKES TRAINING ACCESSIBLE FOR ELECTRICIANS Life today is very different than any of us ever expected, writes Matt Nimmons, Managing Director at CEDIA EMEA.
W
ith so many people spending much more time at home during this period, CEDIA has seen significant new investment in the technology areas where its members excel. Clients have sought professional help in getting better entertainment, comfort and security for their homes, as well as CEDIA’s expert design, installation and integration skills to create secure, robust and functional environments to allow working from home. CEDIA is there to help electricians capitalise on the continuing boom in demand for professional smart home services with a new education initiative launched this year. CEDIA’s Cabling and Infrastructure Technician (CIT) School is an education pathway that is targeted at electricians who have a desire to begin their journey to professional certification. The course has been running as a highly dynamic hybrid learning experience that combines both online and on-site elements. The hybrid course covers the basics of electricity, jobsite safety, project documentation, tools, cable, and cable properties, as well as the pre-wire and first fix phases of projects. Students learn how to safely and effectively follow direction to install, terminate, and verify cabling in both new construction and retrofit environments. Featuring five self-paced modules, the online portion of this course’s content focusses on providing the foundational knowledge required to begin working as a technician, installing cabling and infrastructure to support integrated communications and entertainment systems in the home. The in-person sessions expand upon the vast technical knowledge from the CEDIA Academy. This three-day course involves hands-on activities that are designed to give you a feel for those on-the-job tasks. The final portion of the CIT hybrid school is completion of the CEDIA Cabling and Infrastructure Technician certification exam. Tom Winters of Smart Spark Solutions recently completed the hybrid course in the UK and found the course invaluable in progressing his career. “The online units were a great way of familiarising myself with the basics before attending the face-to-face classes. As you’d expect, I learnt more from the in-person
14 | January 2022
Training – Cedia.indd 14
CEDIA’s Cabling and Infrastructure Technician (CIT) School is an education pathway that is targeted at electricians who have a desire to begin their journey to professional certification
“CEDIA is there to help electricians capitalise on the continuing boom in demand for professional smart home services with a new education initiative launched this year”
the top of their game. CEDIA’s investment in its online education has been and will continue to be substantial. The CEDIA Academy represents a huge step forward in its online curriculum, offering both technical and business focused courses for integrators at a variety of career levels. As our business and personal lives continue to be disrupted, CEDIA is providing hours of valuable online learning to allow professionals to develop their skills and knowledge of the smart home industry. To support CEDIA members, the organisation has made 200 hours of its CEDIA Academy content available as a free resource. The learning insights available on this platform are huge and Matt is urging all contractors thinking about smart home to take a deeper dive, when they’re ready, and explore what’s there to benefit you and your business. The CEDIA Academy has been built hand-in-hand with improvements to CEDIA’s ISO accredited certification programme, and with industry standards in mind. By combining these important areas, CEDIA has been able to ensure that learners are equipped with effective exam preparation and, ultimately, professional accreditation. There has never been a better time to find out more about smart home technology, and how to offer it as a service to your customers. Electricians can connect to more information on CEDIA online education at CEDIA.net, which will be continuously updated as more offerings are made available.
training, but having the online units to complete first gave me a great foundation of understanding, which allowed me to feel ready for the classes,” he says. “Geoff Meads was incredibly knowledgeable on all topics covered in the course and was an enthusiastic trainer who brought a ton of energy to each day, making it a fun experience. Geoff managed the different levels of knowledge of each attendee really well. I was probably the least experienced on the course and appreciated that he still went over every topic in detail so that I gained the understanding that I required. “In terms of attending a face-to-face session in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, I felt that the social distancing and safety methods that CEDIA put in place were very well managed. “Overall, the hybrid course has helped me elevate my knowledge and skills to a more professional level. I would encourage those who are not sure if it is for them to attend as it is well worth doing, particularly if you are looking to step up your expertise within the AV and home technology industry. I really enjoyed the course so much that I have now registered for the Integrated Systems Technician (IST) School to make the next step following on from my completion of the CIT course and exam.” For more information, visit cedia.net/ education-events/education/cit-school. The long-term success of the smart home sector is reliant upon a well-trained and professional workforce. For this reason, CEDIA continues to focus on its educational pathways to ensure that industry professionals can always be at
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CEDIA, cedia.net
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20/12/2021 14:08
Take Charge and Get Organised with our Range of Desk Power and Cable Management Solutions! Desk Power Products
Cable Management Products
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Cable Management Warehouse Ltd Units 5/6 Arkwright Road Industrial Estate, Bedford, MK42 0LQ
Tel: 01234 848030
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Unit 4 Royston Centre, Lynchford Road, GU12 5PQ
Tel: 01252 917300
15/12/2021 15:52
KEY ISSUE
THE BIG RETROFIT CHECKLIST Sure, inefficient old luminaires must be replaced. And they must go as quickly, easily, and as cost-effectively as possible. But is retrofit refurbishment the way? We talk to TRILUX lighting about what you should look out for in a professional LED refurbishment.
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n the lighting market, a retrofit solution involves a modern lighting system, such as an LED lamp, being specially designed to fit into an old, existing lamp holder. The aim is to exploit the advantages of LED technology without having to modify the existing lighting infrastructure. So instead of new wiring or lamp holders, only the light source is replaced. However, what sounds so convincing and straightforward in theory often turns out to be more complex in practice. When converting outdated T5/T8 fluorescent tube systems, savings in energy costs can indeed be achieved quickly, easily, and relatively inexpensively by retrofitting LED lamps. However, in a commercial environment, further factors have to be considered. Compliance with the standards, overall cost-effectiveness, and light quality, safety, controllability, warranty, and financing, to name a few. The LED retrofit checklist shows what you should look out for when retrofitting in a professional environment.
1. Retrofit has many unknowns In the case of retrofit conversion, the lamps are installed in gear trays from a wide variety of manufacturers. This technical and design diversity raises many questions, e.g., about the luminaires’ functionality, lighting quality, and service life. Often it is only after a refurbishment that it is possible to clarify whether and how the lamp and gear tray function together. In comparison, LED complete solutions score with perfectly matched individual components and predictable quality and efficiency parameters.
2. Surprise: what is the real illuminance after retrofit? Retrofit conversions are carried out in a simple 1:1 exchange. But beware, the luminous flux specifications in the datasheet refer to the gross luminous flux emitted by the ‘naked’ retrofit lamp. Installation in the existing gear tray reduces the luminous flux, for example, due to the housing and cover. This means that the lighting quality after a retrofit refurbishment is unknown, unlike with a complete LED solution. If the requirements of health and safety are not complied with, insurance complications can arise in the event of an industrial accident.
3. What about the service life? The warmer an LED gets, the shorter its service life. LED luminaire systems, therefore, have a powerful thermal management system that effectively dissipates heat through the optimum interaction of LED modules and gear
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9. Retrofit is not always included – check your funding small print
trays. In the case of a retrofit solution, thermal management is limited to the lamp, so the service life in the new ‘operating environment’ cannot be predicted. Unpleasant surprises are therefore inevitable.
Are you looking for financial support? Local governments often support the refurbishment of outdated, inefficient lighting systems through numerous funding programs. But, as a rule, only complete LED systems are funded, retrofit solutions go empty-handed.
4. Retrofit needs a specialist Does an LED retrofit lamp require an inductive or an electronic ballast? The information on this can usually be found in the small print and requires the expertise of a qualified electrician. Anyone who commissions a layman to carry out a refurbishment to save costs may end up paying twice over.
5. Light quality: will it flicker
10. Don’t miss out on extra savings through light management
Savings in energy costs can be achieved quickly, easily, and relatively inexpensively by retrofitting LED lamps
Networked and intelligent LED lighting systems are becoming increasingly important. However, unlike complete LED systems, retrofit lamps can only be integrated into a light management system under certain conditions and only to a limited extent. In comparison, LED luminaires can be quickly, easily, and reliably integrated into a light management system via standardised interfaces - even retrofitted. And it pays off because light management reduces energy costs by up to 31%.
Retrofit solutions are used in various lighting systems, some of which differ significantly in photometric and safety specifications. In practice, this can lead to quality problems such as flickering or stroboscopic effects that did not exist initially.
6. Check the overall condition of the lighting system New lamps are all well and good. But if the overall condition of the lighting system is poor, retrofitting is often a wasted labour of love, as the problems ‘come thick and fast’. Therefore, pay attention to the overall condition of the installation, e.g., the sockets for the fluorescent lamps, which can age and become brittle over the decades. Retrofit solutions are sometimes significantly heavier than the original fluorescent lamps and can break out of the socket in the worst case.
11. Do a total cost calculation
7. Check your warranty conditions
Conclusion
Attention: the installation of LED retrofit lamps in an existing lighting system voids the warranty or guarantee of the luminaire manufacturer. Therefore, clarify the guarantee and warranty conditions before refurbishing.
Fluorescent lamp out, retrofit solution in, done? In theory, a retrofit is quick and easy. In practice, however, the effort involved is often underestimated. To ensure that the result meets the requirements of a commercial environment, extensive planning, measurements, and installation by a qualified electrician is also necessary for a retrofit conversion. The clever, simple, and safe alternative is a complete LED solution. Although they have higher investment costs in comparison, they are characterised by enormous advantages in terms of lighting quality, service life, controllability, and installation and operational safety. In addition, complete LED systems are subsidised with attractive government grants. That’s why you should find out about the alternative - a complete refurbishment with LED luminaire systems before retrofitting.
Retrofit conversions are economically attractive at first glance due to low investment costs and low energy consumption. But are they also superior to an LED luminaire system in terms of profitability in the long term? A profitability check that considers all costs from investment and operating costs to service life and subsidies provides clarity.
8. Consider long-term maintenance needs You have professionally implemented the retrofit renovation according to all the professional criteria. Congratulations! Now you must acquire a stock of the retrofit lamps for later maintenance. This is because deviating retrofit lamps or mixed systems can impair functionality and quality. Replacing an LED luminaire with a more efficient successor model, on the other hand, is not a problem because the main parameters such as luminous intensity and beam characteristics are retained.
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TRILUX Lighting, trilux.com
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20/12/2021 14:09
Become an approved Sonos Become an approved Sonos Installed Solutions partner Installed Solutions partner Sonos is one of The World’s Leading Sound experience brands. We invented multiroom wireless made it sound amazing, and changed people Sonos is one of Theaudio, World’s Leading Sound experience brands. the We way invented listen at home. Known for premium sound, ease of and use,changed thoughtful multiroom wireless audio, made it sound amazing, thedesign, way people and anatopen platform, products that make listening listen home. Known we for create premium sound, and easeexperiences of use, thoughtful design, simpler and more joyful. and an open platform, we create products and experiences that make listening simpler and more joyful. Sonos innovation powers better listening experiences, We want to continue to workinnovation with the Installer and build on thoseWe successes in the future. Sonos powerscommunity better listening experiences, want to continue From Portable Home Cinema Architectural systems, in these all to work with thespeakers, Installer community andand build on those successes the future. benefit when installed by Home an approved From Portable speakers, Cinemainstaller. and Architectural systems, these all benefit when installed by an approved installer.
Sonos Approved Installers win CEDIA Awards. Apply to become an approved Sonos byInstallers emailing win Installed-Solutions-UK@sonos.com Sonos Installer Approved CEDIA Awards. Apply to become an approved or visit www.sonos.com/dealer/dealer-onboarding Sonos Installer by emailing Installed-Solutions-UK@sonos.com or visit www.sonos.com/dealer/dealer-onboarding Untitled-6 2 OY21012_Sonos_IS_Adv_245x340_V2_DEF.indd 1
21/10/2021 15:47 6/22/21 9:27 AM
PROJECT FOCUS
LEDFLEX LIGHTING SOLUTIONS LIGHTS UP THE LONDONER HOTEL The Londoner is a sophisticated boutique hotel nestled in London’s world famous Leicester Square. The hotel offers guests a luxurious stay, with an expansive array of amenities and experiences, as well as the highest levels of comfort and decadence.
T
he hotel is the latest project from the UK’s largest family-owned hotel group, Edwardian Hotels London. 350 guest rooms, suites and a stunning tower penthouse with panoramic views are spread over 16 storeys. The Londoner boasts an impressive ballroom which is perfect for a range of celebrations and occasions, a number of meeting spaces and a Wellness Retreat. When it comes to dining, guests are spoilt for choice between casual and upmarket options, including a contemporary Japanese lounge bar with a rooftop terrace and fire pit. The architecture for the hotel was a collaboration between Edwardian Hotels London’s Design Architect, Rob Steul, and architectural firm, Woods Bagot. The brief was to create a design concept that celebrated the hotel’s positioning in Leicester Square, with a ‘West Side Story’ narrative to underpin the guest experience. Interior designer Yabu Pushelberg, engineer Arup Associates and artist Ian Monroe were also part of the expert team. Due to strict planning, restrictions limited any upwards build. Eight of the 16 storeys form the capital’s deepest habitable basement. The bedrooms and suites remain above street level, while the guest attractions and services are housed in the lower floors with no natural light. With an expansive space to consider, and the vast array of different spaces for varied purposes, a bespoke lighting design was key. Inverse Lighting was appointed to create the lighting scheme for the hotel, which partnered with premium linear lighting expert, LEDFlex, to fulfil a number of elements of the design. On arrival at the hotel, guests are immediately welcomed by a large open space, with the reception area discreetly to the side to allow free passage to the lounge. The lighting is kept intimate with soft integrated LEDFlex fixtures - Pro Profile 32 with Eco Flex 180 2700K. To illuminate the hotel’s grand staircase, LEDFlex’s Eco Flex 60 in 2700K has been used. This provides a beautiful glow befitting of the sophisticated staircase. Eco Flex 180 2700K can also be found in The Stage restaurant/bar, integrated seamlessly into the joinery of the bar counter, providing functional lighting for the bar staff through the use of Pro Profile 32 with Eco Flex 60 2700K. On the
18 | January 2022
Project Focus – Ledflex Lighting.indd 18
opposite side, the lighting works cleverly to wash vertically through the marble panels. This solution has also been used to provide shelf and joinery lighting in the lower ground floor lobby. In the wellness retreat, the pool area ceiling is lit with LEDFlex’s colour changing Ultra Bright 96 RGBW in 2700K to enable different colours to be used to set the right mood dependent on the time of day. Lumen Line 240 delivers lighting in The Residence’s indirect cove details of the bathroom mirrors. Moving down the levels, in the B1/B2/B3 lobby and bar, Eco Flex 180 2700K provides cove lighting and shelf lighting, while the Eco Flex 60 2700k has been used for furniture backlighting. Finally, the Whiskey Room is a hidden gem featuring a collection of the world’s finest whiskeys, each under lock and key in their own vestibule within a glass cabinet; this is the room’s main feature. An intimate space, with only six tables, the Whiskey Room boasts mirrored walls, with the space playing with light and reflections. Here, LEDFlex’s Pro Profile 32 with Eco Flex 60 2700K has been used. Nicola Agresta, Senior Lighting Designer, Inverse Lighting says, “It has been an honour to work with the wider team to fulfil the lighting design for such a
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prestigious venue. Despite the challenge of a distinct lack of natural daylight to work with, The Londoner offers a wealth of charm, character, and unique features to illuminate, creating a real ambience for all guests.” Anthony Kerr from LEDFlex says: “The Londoner is a glorious hotel, offering guests a fantastic experience and atmosphere. It is a privilege to have been part of the project team and see so many of our market-leading linear lighting solutions throughout the hotel. The flexibility our range offers, alongside the highest-levels of quality and light output, are demonstrated by being specified in this sophisticated and refined hotel.” A considered approach to the hotel’s environmental impact was also crucial. To meet the BREEAM Excellent standards, sustainable design solutions have been implemented across all aspects, using construction materials with a low environmental impact. LEDFlex’s solutions play an important role in this, reducing carbon output thanks to the sole use of LED technology. The Londoner building is projected to use 30% less carbon than regulations legislate, a demonstration of the group’s commitment to a sustainable future.
The guest attractions and services are housed in the lower floors with no natural light
LEDFlex, ledflexgroup.com
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20/12/2021 14:10
STEP BACK, GET CLOSER
GET CLOSER TO OUR EXPERTISE There’s more to Legrand than you realise. Our teams specialise in the research and development of market-leading solutions. Around 80% of our UK sales come from products manufactured in the UK, all supported by our specialist technical teams and engineers. So step back, see the whole picture and get closer to Legrand.
See the whole picture at legrand.co.uk
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15/12/2021 15:54
INTERVIEW
FROM CYCLING TO CIRCUITS Carly Wills speaks to Hamilton’s Sales and Marketing Director, Gavin Williams, about making the switch from professional cycling to electrical wiring accessories, and what’s next for the business. has to change. As for a return to normality: I don’t think we’re out of the woods just yet, with the threat of new variants, European lockdowns and supply chain issues, and Brexit. There are more challenges ahead, but I am now even more confident that the team at the factory, and on the road, are primed and ready.
CW: Tell us about yourself and how you got into the sector. GW: As a teenager I dreamt of becoming a professional cyclist – I just had to give it a go! Despite some success racing on a circuit in the US, I began to realise it was going to be hard to make a real living from this, so I reluctantly retired. Upon my return to the UK, a good mate helped me to get a job as a warehouse assistant at super distributor, Bridisco. From there I worked in a number of product marketing roles within the electrical industry, working for companies such as Micromark, Deta Electrical, Honeywell, Havells Sylvania, and finally into Hamilton as Head of Marketing before becoming the Sales and Marketing Director.
CW: Aside from COVID-19, what have been the biggest changes across the industry in recent times? What will be the biggest changes in the future?
CW: For those who may not know, can you give us an overview of the work that Hamilton does? GW: Hamilton is a British, family-run company that designs and manufactures a comprehensive range of electrical wiring accessories – including bespoke tailor-made plates – plus a range of smart lighting control and wireless audio solutions. Our headquarters and factory are in Bristol, and we also have showrooms in London and Barcelona. CW: Tell us about your current role - what are you responsible for and what does the normal working day consist of? GW: Like most sales and marketing directors, no two days are the same, which is the attraction of the role for me – I get bored easily. I am responsible for both the sales and marketing strategies for the business, and I’m constantly kept on my toes by the latest changes and product developments within the industry. I head up the national sales team, as well as being personally responsible for servicing customers within London and the South-East. If I’m not on the road, then I’m working from our new showroom in London or down at our Bristol factory, finding out about new products and ensuring customers remain happy. I spend a lot of my time liaising between customers and the factory to ensure briefs are met and deadlines are hit! You’ll always find me on the stand at a trade show as I enjoy talking to customers, and to hear first-hand comments about our products and services that I can build into future strategies. I also work closely with our agency, Oil The Wheels, who help us to plan and create our print and online advertising and editorial campaigns. We often use case studies for content, so again, good customer relationships are crucial.
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CW: What are the best things about your role? What are the most challenging?
“Being a comparatively small family company gives me such a varied role and involvement in many areas of the business”
GW: Being a comparatively small family company gives me such a varied role and involvement in many areas of the business. I certainly enjoy the travelling around as I’m not a big fan of being tied to a desk. Certainly, a big challenge over the past 18 months has been satisfying customer demands whilst experiencing material shortages across the supply chain due to the pandemic and Brexit. Hitting deadlines can be tricky, especially when both client and project expectations are so high. The pressure has been on us at times, but the whole team at Hamilton has really pulled together over the last year and a half and it’s great to see us work together to get things done. CW: How has COVID-19 affected the industry? Do you think things will be finally able to get back to ‘normal’ soon? GW: I don’t think there is any one company that has been insulated from the effects of COVID-19. We have seen cost increases and material and staff shortages, but, as I say, this has been the predicament across most sectors. Just-in-time manufacturing is now the norm, but the pandemic has shown the fragility of this method, especially in terms of the overdependence on third party suppliers. I think ‘normal’ is getting product out of the door within the old-time frames, but I suspect the way this is done in the future
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GW: Consumers are now more design savvy than ever – they want all things, including their homes, to be emblematic of them and their lifestyle. We’ve seen a definite move away from traditional steel finishes to more popular brass and bronze colours. Also, people are becoming more aware of how their homes can serve them better. Functionality is just as important to designers and homeowners as it is to installers nowadays. Products need to be future-proofed, and they are likely to be integrated into a smart home system at some point. Customer expectations around speed of delivery are through the roof, partly due to the Amazon effect, and I do think these issues are leaking across into the business sector. We all need to work harder to make it easier for customers to get product information and to shorten lead times. And of course, price is always under pressure. CW: What’s next for you and for Hamilton? GW: 2022 sees lots of new challenges for Hamilton. I’ve plans to strengthen our already fantastic sales team, help with launching lots of new and exciting products, hopefully getting as many clients into our London Showroom as possible, and of course more face-to-face interactions with both new and existing customers. CW: What are your interests away from work? GW: Sport, the family, and more sport! I’m a big Spurs fan and a season ticket holder, so I go to most home games when I can with my son. Cycling is still my passion so me and the family go out at a slower pace around the trails of Essex on the weekends. I’m also a big rugby fan and I enjoy the solitude of cross country running as it’s a great way for me to unwind. Aside from that, I take my kids to various sporting activities such as football, horse riding and swimming, which they love. Hamilton, hamilton-litestat.com
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20/12/2021 15:38
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IN
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FREE
FREE LAMP RECYCLING BATTERIES & ELECTRICALS
FREE collection and recycling and FREE container for sites collecting over 1000 lamps each quarter. As a non profit organisation, Options available for smaller Recolight can offer a low cost quantities. recycling service. Giving you a complete WEEE service.
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info@recolight.co.uk Untitled-8 1
24/08/2021 11:15
COMPETITION
THE PERFECT EV CHARGING SOLUTION Moss Electrical is offering one lucky winner the chance to win an EVIE 7.2KW Smart Charge Unit – worth £419.99!
E
VIE has been designed to offer the perfect EV charging solution for the home and commercial space. Features include:
So why not become an EVIE installer? An abundance of opportunities are on offer to EVIE Approved Installers, including a feature on the website – www.eviecharge.co.uk – and the possibility of offering customers maintenance contracts. To find out more please contact sales@eviecharge.co.uk. As the EVIE family expands, keep your eyes peeled for new products as the company has plenty of exciting and innovative ideas that it is eager to introduce into the market. Watch this space!
• Three-year manufacturer warranty • Earth rod not required • £350 OZEV grant available to the installer • Ready to install with standard wall bracket and fixings • Ground mount available • RFID cards included • WiFi-monitoring • Type B RCD and Type B RCMU • LCD touch display
November Competition The winner of the November competition – a Nintendo Switch Neon with Joy-Con Controllers and USB-C port, courtesy of Hamilton – was Andrew Whyte.
Closing date All entries must be returned by 31 January 2022. The editor’s decision is final. For the full terms and conditions, visit electricalcontractingnews.com/ competition-terms.
For your chance to win an EVIE 7.2KW Smart Charge Unit, simply answer the following questions correctly: 1. What is the best-selling electric vehicle of 2021? a) Audi e-tron b) Tesla Model 3 c) Nissan Leaf
2. A new electric car is registered every nine minutes’ – true or false?
3. ‘You can power your house from an electric car’ – true or false?
a) True b) False
The name of the winner will be published in the March issue of ECN. *Prize not exchangeable.
a) True b) False
To enter, please complete the form below and fax to 01634 673173, or post to: ECN Competition, All Things Media Ltd, Suite 14, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Kent, ME5 8UD. Alternatively, you can email your answers and contact details to: carly@allthingsmedialtd.com.
The answers to January’s competition are:
Contact Preferences Y ES, I would like to receive the ECN newsletter Y ES, I would like to subscribe to ECN magazine
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Y ES, I would like to share my data with Moss Electrical
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20/12/2021 14:11
SPECIAL FEATURE
CIRCUIT PROTECTION & SWITCHGEAR supported by
Circuit Protection
• • • • • •
FUSES SURGE PROTECTION DOMESTIC CONSUMER UNITS DOMESTIC CIRCUIT BREAKERS COMMERCIAL CIRCUIT BREAKERS EARTHING
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For all your Electrical Essentials
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January 2022 | 23
20/12/2021 14:12
SPECIAL FEATURE
CIRCUIT PROTECTION & SWITCHGEAR
A NEW YEAR FULL OF CHANGES
A core problem is the electricity restrictions being faced by Chinese factories – caused by limits on producing electricity using coal within the country itself, and rising coal costs across the world which are preventing them from importing more. Two thirds of factories are being closed down for hours or days at a time – and the knock-on effect in terms of product shortages is being felt worldwide. With workers set to travel away from industrial areas to visit their families over the Chinese New Year (1-11 February), it’s an annual occurrence that a proportion of the workforce won’t return, further diminishing factory output for the foreseeable future.
As we bid farewell to 2021 and welcome in 2022, there are plenty of challenges facing the electrical industry – and the world in general.
Y
Taking stock of global manufacturing and supply issues
et there are many things to be hopeful about, and Niglon is concentrating on the year ahead, ensuring the company is best placed to continue providing the industry with quality circuit protection, control and automation, wiring accessories, and thousands of products vital to installations across the UK. As well as wishing you all a Happy New Year, Niglon would like to use this opportunity to share its insights into the current supply and stock issues facing the industry – and how it has been working to mitigate the impact upon its customers.
Trouble at sea
Decisions about stock levels have always been a balancing act – running out of stock is a worry, but so too is having excess stock you can’t sell. In Niglon’s case, the company felt it was the right decision to up its reserves by 30% a while ago and has pledged to keep them at this higher level going forward. The company had sound business reasons for doing so, but even Niglon couldn’t have predicted the stock and supply issues which would begin plaguing the world – meaning the ‘just-in-time’ approach of only ordering stock when needed became even less desirable.
In addition to problems manufacturing stock, shipping it across the world has also become a problem – with more than three quarters of ports experiencing abnormally long turnaround times, according to analysis by RBC Capital Markets. Add to this at least a 400% increase in shipping containers in the past year, an almost doubling of door-to-door shipping times, and the HGV driver shortage – particularly impacting the UK in the wake of Brexit – and it all makes for rather grim reading.
Circuit Protection
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20/12/2021 14:12
SPECIAL FEATURE
CIRCUIT PROTECTION & SWITCHGEAR
Switched Neutral RCBO
Act now
Changes ahead
While an unlucky combination of factors has come together to create the perfect storm (or perfect headache) for manufacturers and suppliers, there is hope that we can emerge from that storm. And it feels likely that ‘just-in-time’ may be replaced with a preference for larger stock reserves across the electrical sector and beyond. Niglon’s decision to increase stock reserves by 30% has stood the company in good stead so far, and looks likely to carry it through the rest of the storm. That’s why Niglon is encouraging everyone in the supply chain to ensure they are prepared for the next few months, especially contractors who should be having conversations with their wholesalers, to question how much stock is available and what plans have been made to overcome supply issues. With months of disruption ahead, it’s crucial that these conversations take place now, otherwise there is no guarantee that contractors will be able to continue purchasing the products they need for their installations during this time. And this isn’t just a case of getting through until ‘normality’ resumes. The situation should act as a wake-up call to everyone in the electrical industry that we need to keep preparing for the worst. That’s not pessimistic – it’s simply a more sensible way to run a business than adopting the ‘just-in-time’ approach.
While it’s not certain that the global manufacturing and shipping problems will change for a while yet, one thing we know is set to happen soon is the finalisation of the second amendments to the 18th Edition wiring regulations. While the industry prepares for confirmation of the changes, the Niglon team has been working hard to ensure it is ready for what’s to come, based on the previous circulation of the draft amendments. The company has been developing a range of Arc Fault Detection Devices (AFDDs) to ensure its customers have a quality product to choose from before the changes come into effect. While Niglon hasn’t yet seen the final amendments, it’s expected under regulation 421.1.7 that it will become a requirement – rather than a recommendation – to use an AFDD for circuits’ supply socket outlets and fixed current using equipment (where the current doesn’t exceed 32A). Where an AFDD is installed, it will detect arcs caused by cable defects, loose connections or other problems and will trip accordingly. After an extensive design and testing period, Niglon’s single module AFDD is set to launch soon.
Switch complete When the proposed amendments to the 18th Edition regulations were circulated, Niglon took immediate heed of the changes suggested for 531.3.3, namely that A Type RCDs must be used for all installation where there is a DC pulsated residual current, because of the detection and prevention against electric shock they offer. This differs from the original regulations in that AC Types could be used for ‘standard’ installations (with no firm definition of what was meant by ‘standard’). At Niglon, rather than wait for the amendments to take effect before it took action, the company wanted to ensure that it (and consequently its customers) were fully ready – so began switching production to solely A Type RCDs and stopped making AC Types. Now, with the finalised second amendments expected to be published this spring before taking effect next year, that switch is complete – meaning Niglon (and its customers) are well ahead of time for new regulation compliance!
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In with the new
“Niglon (and its customers) are well ahead of time for new regulation compliance!”
Niglon is well and truly looking ahead to the future, which will include the launch of new products in 2022. As with the company’s entire existing catalogue of more than 4,500 products, its Switched Neutral RCBOs will help contractors complete their installations even more quickly and simply – knowing they’ve used quality products, made to last. In addition to the current RCBO range, the new Switched Neutral option means whenever there is a fault with an appliance or component, both the live and neutral automatically switch off to isolate the power supply. Another benefit is when the contractor has finished installing the product and is ready to complete their insulation resistance test, there’s no need to disconnect as there won’t be a false reading shown, as can happen with a standard RCBO if it’s not disconnected before the test. Do keep your eyes peeled, as the Switched Neutral RCBO won’t be the only new Niglon product launched in 2022. Visit the company’s website to see the existing range of more than 4,500 products across circuit protection, wiring accessories, installation essentials, industrial accessories, cable management, lighting control, fixings and tools, and control and automation. Niglon, niglon.co.uk
January 2022 | 25
20/12/2021 14:12
SPECIAL FEATURE
CIRCUIT PROTECTION & SWITCHGEAR
SILICON-BASED, AI-EMPOWERED ELECTRICAL ENDPOINTS WILL USHER IN A SECOND ELECTRICAL REVOLUTION Every day the promise of silicon chip solutions are being realised in computers, vehicles, mobile devices, appliances, and many other categories of powered products. For a variety of reasons, one major sector that has yet to benefit from siliconisation is the building electrical grid, writes Thar Casey, Amber Solutions Founder CEO and Steven Bakos, Infineon Technologies Senior Director, Switching Power.
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n the coming years, silicon-based, AI-empowered electrical endpoints will enable a building’s electrical infrastructure to provide a robust built-in smart building ecosystem, as well as energy and environmental awareness, enhanced life safety solutions, management, and communication capabilities. Until now, the long service life of traditional devices and size constraints of existing gang boxes and circuit breaker panels have contributed to a lack of appetite among electrical manufacturers to make fundamental changes to core components, such as outlets, switches and circuit breakers that rely on century-old technology. Traditional endpoints require large electromechanical parts to function, which have limited design innovations due to the need for universal compatibility with existing form-factors like single gang boxes and circuit breaker panel infrastructure. This is about to change.
The unfolding opportunity Recent breakthroughs in solid-state control of electricity pioneered by Amber Solutions, and advanced through an alliance with Infineon Technologies, have given electrical device manufacturers their first real opportunity to leverage modern intelligence and robust data sensing in products that can be easily installed in any building on the planet without having to rewire. Utilising a solid-state system-on-a-chip (SOC) for power management that’s so small it can easily be integrated into existing form factors, endpoints can now be designed to include any number of Internet-of-Things (IoT) sensors or communication components to expand functionality and deliver fully-connected smart building intelligence that leverage existing gang boxes and circuit breaker panels. This innovation makes it simple to turn every room’s light switches, outlets, and circuit breakers and more into micro computers with up to 10 times the sensing capabilities and
smart features of currently available smart switches and outlets, as an example. Individual Amber-powered endpoints present a significant improvement over existing devices, yet their true power lies in working together throughout a building to form a unique and disruptive power management and connectivity ecosystem. By providing actionable data, the technology offers immediate opportunity to improve everything from fire safety to energy savings to indoor air quality.
A floor-to-ceiling upgrade Consider a skyscraper in a busy city. At every point from the building’s main power panel to an apartment owner’s outlets, new Amber technologies can provide previously impossible benefits. The first point of contact could be an energy traffic controller powered by Amber that intelligently monitors power sources to optimally combine available wind, solar, battery, grid or generator power to maximise efficiency, reduce costs or help manage external events including power outages or an over-stressed grid. Next in line are the circuit breakers that deliver power throughout the building, which can now track energy usage in real time while eliminating the threat of dangerous electrical arcs. This is because the breaker is solid-state with no moving parts that can form an arc. Dangerous faults that produce these arcs are sensed thousands of times faster than current conventional electromechanical breakers and are mitigated long before these faults become big enough to become dangerous. With integrated wireless communications, an Amber-powered circuit breaker could provide immediate data on the specific endpoint that caused a trip, including whether it was a slow-trip, or other factors, and enable wireless shut off or resetting. Also, Amber’s embedded, modern intelligence operates so fast, and with such deep understanding of the electrical waveforms, that it enables the virtual elimination of false and nuisance GFCI and AFCI trips.
Amber Solutions has formed an alliance with Infineon Technologies
Finally, power is delivered to the endpoints like outlets and light switches, which can be designed to include any number of sensors for specific needs. There’s no limit to what they can offer, from moisture detection and voice control to intercoms and scheduled automation. Security sensors, micro cameras, air quality detectors, pressure sensors, wireless transmitters and receivers, and even motion detectors can be built in to every end point solution. With this unprecedented level of sensing and control, smart endpoints can greatly improve the scope of coverage and value delivered by smart building automation, access control, fire control and security platforms. These are not new ideas, but the challenge of actually implementing them has prevented these solutions from appearing on the market.
The second electrical revolution While newer power generation plants such as solar and wind farms are revolutionising how we generate electricity, Amber Solutions is revolutionising how we use it. No matter where the electricity is coming from, the power of solid-state control with embedded intelligence dramatically improves the reliability, safety, energy savings, life-safety protections and overall value of a building’s existing electrical infrastructure. Amber Solutions, ambersi.com Infineon Technologies, infineon.com
3 Phase TPN Distribution Boards
Circuit Protection
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20/12/2021 14:13
E ST
P
SAVE TIME AND MONEY ON TESTING
D • INDE
D • INDE P
DENTLY T E E ST
Certified
EN
EN
DENTLY T E
SWITCHED LINE & NEUTRAL RCBO
Features
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• MCB sized RCBO • Fully isolates faults • Saves time on testing • Type A RCBO - Detects AC & pulsating DC currents
Connect withwith us on: Connect us on:
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15/12/2021 15:54
SPECIAL FEATURE
CIRCUIT PROTECTION & SWITCHGEAR
DISTRIBUTION BOARDS: THE HEART OF YOUR ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Whether you’re rewiring a small residential property or a large commercial building, the distribution board is the core consideration, says Nico van der Merwe, Vice President of Home and Distribution at Schneider Electric. Over the years, it has evolved from a simple device for isolating power with relatively crude fuse wires to a modern unit filled with complex electronic equipment and various protective devices.
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iven the importance of installing distribution boards correctly, electricians must learn the ins and outs of selecting boards and protective devices and ensure that installation methods meet and exceed the required standards. Understanding regulations and best installation practices will not only guarantee the compliance of installations but will also ensure the highest levels of safety for clients.
Starting point: regulations and installation practices Whenever an electrician selects and installs a distribution board, statutory requirements must be met. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) considers installations that meet the requirements outlined in BS 7671:2018 to be more likely to comply with UK legislation laid out in the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. Regulation 132.3 is an excellent place to start, since it compels electricians to think about the nature of demand to estimate the number and type of circuits needed for lighting, heating, electricity, control signalling, communication and information technology, among other areas. At a domestic level, a single board may suffice. Commercial and industrial projects may demand numerous boards and equipment suitable for handling cross-sectional areas, higher fault currents, and larger current loads. Other regulations vital to comply with include Regulation 132.8, which requires electricians to select devices that will protect against the outcomes of overload, fault current, overvoltage and undervoltage. Regulation 132.10 involves the provision of disconnecting devices to permit switching and isolation of the electrical installation, circuits or individual items of equipment as
required for operation, inspection, testing, fault detection, maintenance, and repair. Electricians must keep up to date with ongoing regulations to ensure that work is carried out correctly and guarantee safety in domestic and commercial buildings. Protection against the risk of fire should be high on the agenda for all electricians, and fire sealing methods must become engrained in practice. The introduction of Regulation 421.1.201 relating to steel enclosures for domestic consumer units made electricians a lot more aware of the risk of fire in switchgear assemblies. To ensure adequate steps are taken to minimise the risk of fire spreading from within a consumer unit, particularly if the board is mounted on a flammable surface, it is essential to seal the cable rear-entry points using a proprietary fire-rated seal such as intumescent strip. Cables entering through side surfaces are best fitted with fire retardant grommets, subject to the requirements of Regulation Group 416.2 being met and utilising metal blank plates instead of plastic, coupled with a metal lid that self closes. An Intumescent sealing compound is also available where openings may allow the passage of flames.
Protection against the risk of fire should be high on the agenda for all electricians
Intelligent use of power The UK government’s climate change target, which aims to bring the UK three-quarters of the way to net zero carbon by 2050, will no doubt drive the technological advances in the construction of distribution boards in the future. As greener electrical heating systems replace fossil fuel usage and electric vehicle charging becomes more common, we will likely see increased demand for distribution boards and electricians. In the UK, we already see many new builds provided with three-phase supplies to allow for load balancing and increased demand in the domestic sector, and thus three-phase boards may become more common in homes.
The UK governments climate change target will no doubt drive advances in the construction of distribution boards
The future of installation Designing, selecting, and erecting distribution boards is a difficult task. Before installing a new board, a thorough check of the wiring is required to detect any hidden problems. For example, old wired fuse boards will not safeguard against neutral earth failures, and merely replacing the board may result in a scenario where power cannot be restored. As well as the technical expertise required, one of the most difficult parts of being an electrician is educating customers to fully understand what the technology provides. The cost of labour, expertise and parts can come as a shock to some clients, but a well-informed customer will ultimately make well-informed choices. Schneider Electric, se.com
Surge Protection Devices
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20/12/2021 14:14
Commercial Surge Protection We have developed a range of dedicated SPD kits, specifically for our Commercial Distribution boards. Our kits have been created to provide optimum end equipment protection against surge transient voltages after an increased focus on this requirement in the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations.
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Find out more hager.com/uk
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Space Saving Integration Our SPD kits have the added benefit of not requiring any additional upstream protection devices, saving more space in the board for protection devices.
Integrated Testing We’ve developed our boards and SPD kits together and tested the effective performance of how well high voltage transients are managed down to levels that don’t harm electrical equipment.
A Solid Connection Through extensive testing we know that removing secondary protective devices, using short conductor paths to SPD’s and replacing cables with solid copper Earth links, dramatically improves the effectiveness of the SPD.
20/12/2021 09:51
SPECIAL FEATURE
CIRCUIT PROTECTION & SWITCHGEAR
SPDS IN ALL DOMESTIC PROPERTIES IN THE FUTURE? Scolmore Group looks at the ever-changing regulations regarding SPDs.
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SPDs also make use of the qualities of a varistor (voltage-dependent resistor). Varistors have a high impedance under normal operating conditions; however, when a transient voltage appears its resistance reduces, causing excess current to ‘shunt’ to earth. When the transient overvoltage is removed, the device returns to its typical high impedance state. There are three ‘Types’ of SPD classified according to their standard:
SPDs
• Type 1 – typically installed at the origin of the installation and usually operate on ‘spark gap’ technology • Type 2 – typically installed at distribution boards and operate on varistor technology • Type 3 – typically installed local to connected equipment
There are instances where a transient overvoltage is generated, and such overvoltages can be created from a variety of sources including: • A lightning stroke close to overhead power lines generating an induced current within the conductors • A lightning stroke making contact with the general mass of earth close to underground cables, thereby generating an induced current within the underground cable conductors • Induced EMF within conductors caused by the switching of highly inductive loads
SPDs are a special kind of device that protect electrical equipment, wiring, and accessories from electrical power surges
BS 7671
S 7671 is due for a second amendment this year and Scolmore currently understands that SPDs are due for review. It’s proposed that the current regulations are changed to simplify the process a designer completes to identify if SPDs are needed. With that in mind Scolmore takes a deeper look at SPDs and tries to understand where the industry is heading.
Taken simply, an SPD is a special kind of device that protects electrical equipment, wiring, and accessories from electrical power surges by shunting current to earth within milliseconds. To do this, SPDs typically make use of two technologies: spark gap or varistors. SPDs make use of spark gap technology to detect a transient overvoltage and start the discharge process. The generated arc is then channelled into an arcing chamber which allows the arc to be split up into several small partial arcs. This type of technology is typically found in Type 1 SPDs.
There are a significant number of regulations detailed within BS 7671 regarding SPDs. Other than the general requirement for overvoltage protection in Regulation 443.4.1, Section 534 (along with the informative Appendix 16) details the specific requirements for the designer and installer to consider when specifying SPDs. Regulation 534.4.1.1 details the locations where SPDs are required. Type 1 or Type 2 SPDs should be installed at the origin of an electrical installation. Type 2 or Type 3 SPDs installed downstream of the origin further protect against switching transients originating within the building. It is permitted for SPDs to have combined classification, for example, a combined Type 1+2 or a combined Type 2+3 (Regulation 534.1). The note to Regulation 534.4.1.1 states that Type 1 SPDs are often referred to as ‘equipotential bonding SPDs’ and are fitted to the origin of the installation to prevent dangerous sparking which might lead to a fire or shock hazard. It should be carefully noted that BS EN 62305-4 recognises that a Type 1 SPD will not provide effective protection against the failure of sensitive electrical and electronic systems and that subsequent Type 2 and Type 3 devices will be needed downstream of the origin. The designer also needs to determine whether the SPD has internal overcurrent protection, otherwise there will need to be overcurrent protection with respect to short-circuit currents (Regulation 534.4.5.1). Should the overcurrent protective device operate, the installation will continue to operate but will not be protected against subsequent transient overvoltages. SPDs will be a much more common feature within electrical installations and contractors will need to be familiar with the type, application and protection necessary. It is believed that the second amendment to BS 7671 will see stronger support for the use of SPDs in more installations, including safety services. If this is the case and the proposed change is included in the final document, SPDs may be needed in all domestic properties.
SPDs may be needed in all domestic properties in the future
Reason for their introduction It has taken some time for SPDs to become common within the UK. The initial reluctance of the contracting industry in installing SPDs was due to the perceived relatively low level of risk of transient overvoltages due to lightning strokes and the limited likelihood of damage to connected equipment. However, it has been commonly accepted that with the increase in the cost of equipment and appliances installed, the impetus for the use of SPDs has, correspondingly, increased. An installation protected by suitably selected and erected SPDs will be able to limit the risk of damage to connected equipment caused by a transient overvoltage, potentially saving thousands of pounds. Based on the draft for public comment (DPC), there are two conditions where SPDs will be required: • Where there is a risk of serious injury to, or loss of, human life, for example a safety service • Where there is significant financial or data loss In all other instances, Regulation 443.4.1 recognises that protection against transient overvoltages using devices such as SPDs, is reasonable, unless the owner of the installation declares it is not required due to any loss or damage being acceptable.
Scolmore, scolmore.com
Domestic Consumer Units
Circuit Protection
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20/12/2021 14:14
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15/12/2021 15:59
SPECIAL FEATURE
EV CHARGING
FIRST UK KEMPOWER CHARGING HUB OPENS IN WOLVERHAMPTON A UK-first electric vehicle (EV) dynamic charging hub has opened in Wolverhampton. The site is the first of over 150 charging hubs being delivered across the UK by Osprey Charging in a £75 million programme to eliminate charging anxiety ahead of the 2030 ban on petrol and diesel cars.
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V uptake in the Midlands is expected to skyrocket over the next decade, with a report from Midlands Connect projecting the number of registered EVs in the Midlands – currently at around 45,000 – to reach 1.7 million by 2030, an increase of over 3,000%. This huge growth in EV adoption will require a sixfold increase in the number of EV charging points to meet demand for charging. Other factors – such as Birmingham’s Clean Air Zone introduced in June 2021 to tackle air pollution – are accelerating this trend, encouraging drivers in the region to move away from old polluting petrol and diesel vehicles to electric alternatives. Public EV charging infrastructure, such as Osprey’s new Wolverhampton hub, will help ensure that the transition to EVs in the region is both rapid and smooth. Ian Johnston, CEO of Osprey Charging, says: “Whether it’s gigafactories, EV manufacturing or
32 | January 2022
EV Charging – Osprey Charging.indd 32
Clean Air Zones, The West Midlands is leading the way on low carbon transport, cementing its role at the heart of the UK’s green industrial revolution. “The opening of our high-powered charging hub in Wolverhampton – the first of 10 in construction this year – once again puts the region at the leading edge of innovation, marking a stepchange in the UK’s EV infrastructure as we accelerate towards mass adoption of EVs. The site, which deploys multiple high-powered chargers, will provide a blueprint for hundreds more right across the UK, meaning no waiting times for drivers and an overall outstanding customer experience.” The site is a major boost to regional EV charging infrastructure, hosting four high power rapid chargers that can add up to 100 miles of charge in just 10 minutes. Located adjacent to the A463, the hub will serve major transport routes in the area that see more than 130,000 vehicles pass by daily, and has a Costa Coffee on-site, allowing drivers to relax and make use of the facilities while they charge.
electricalcontractingnews.com
“Kempower chargers work together to optimise charging across multiple vehicles when more than one EV is plugged in”
@ElecConNews
Martin Pitt, local EV driver, says: “I switched to an EV just over two years ago and haven’t looked back since – they are cheap to run, great to drive and importantly, cause much less harm to the environment than petrol and diesel vehicles. However, availability and ease of charging puts a lot of people off making the switch. “Osprey’s new hub in Wolverhampton is great news for drivers in the Midlands and those en route. The sooner we have more projects like this, the better.”
A ‘game-changer’ for EV charging Osprey’s Wolverhampton hub is the first site in the UK deploy a game-changing new technology – Kempower – which is enabling more locations than ever before to host multiple high-powered chargers on a single site. Kempower chargers work together to optimise charging across multiple vehicles when more than one EV is plugged in. They
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20/12/2021 14:15
EV CHARGING
SPECIAL FEATURE
EV chargers at Costa Coffee
allow power to be distributed based on demand, which varies significantly between individual vehicles due to the maximum charging rate of each model and its battery percentage at the point of charge. This can reduce waiting times significantly, maximising the speed and availability of chargers for drivers, and increasing consumer footfall for the landowners hosting the hubs.
The technology also means grid connections can be optimised, allowing multiple high-power chargers to be installed per site and offering higher charging speeds without the need for more grid power. The physical footprint of each charger is also reduced by 74%, allowing space for more chargers, improving accessibility and reducing their visual impact to support planning permission.
The West Midlands is leading the way on low carbon transport
Osprey worked closely with Deeley Construction, who delivered the new Costa Coffee site at which the hub is located, and Connect It Utility Services, who ensured the high-power charging installation was built and energised on time and to a high quality. Martin Gallagher, Managing Director of Deeley Construction, says: “As a company we have achieved carbon neutral status and are targeting ‘net zero’ by 2036. Therefore, it is vital to us that we include sustainable features in all of our developments. “Electric vehicles are at the heart of the drive to reduce carbon emissions and the high-power charging hub at the new Costa Coffee site will make it easier and more accessible for drivers in the region to go electric and, as a result, reduce their carbon footprints.” Osprey’s £75 million UK-wide EV charging hub rollout will see a total of 1,500 150-175KW rapid chargers installed across 150 sites nationwide over the next four years. Each hub will be located on strategic A-roads and adjacent to motorways, hosting up to 12 high powered chargers. All Osprey chargers are compatible with every rapid charging EV on the market today and do not require a membership or subscription to initiate charging – drivers can simply tap their contactless bank card or smartphone. Osprey Charging, ospreycharging.co.uk
SMART EV CHARGING FOR COMMERCIAL CLIENTS
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3.6kW to 200kW charging speeds OCPP 1.6 compliant Mobile phone & RFID operation Workplace, public & fleet charging For more details call 01205 724754 or email jakeh@rolecserv.co.uk
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20/12/2021 15:11
What is the MaxiCharger?
Wall-Mounted (Socket)
Floor-Standing (Socket)
The MaxiCharger is a single-outlet, universal Type 2 socket charger. It is available in both online and offline models. It is OCPP 1.6 compliant, has dynamic load balancing built-in and incorporates PME fault detection. It is available in three attractive finishes: silver, black or white. The MaxiCharger is robust, aesthetically pleasing and suitable for all environments. It charges up to 7.4 kW on a single-phase connection and 11/22 kW on a three-phase connection.
For more information, visit www.sevadis.com or call 0330 058 7144 to discuss the MaxiCharger Untitled-3 2
16/12/2021 10:13
MaxiCharger key features
Wall-Mounted (Tethered)
Floor-Standing (Tethered)
3.7 kW - 22 kW Single-socket or tethered Type 2 charger PME fault detection incorporated Single-phase and three-phase connection Wall and floor-mounted solutions OCPP 1.6 compliant Smart online or offline system Smart App or Cloud management software Dynamic and active load balancing options available Black, silver or white fascia
Product quality you can trust Untitled-3 2
Customer service you can rely on
Easy & efficient installation 16/12/2021 10:14
SPECIAL FEATURE
EV CHARGING
IONITY ANNOUNCES €700M INVESTMENT TO ENABLE RAPID EV CHARGING NETWORK EXPANSION Europe’s high-power charging network, IONITY, has announced a combined €700m investment from its current shareholders and new partner the BlackRock Global Renewable Power platform, which will enable it to increase the number of high-power 350kW charging points by more than four times, to 7,000 by 2025.
T
he new charging points will be situated not only on motorways, but also near major cities and along busy trunk roads. Future locations will be built with a higher average of six to 12 charging points. Furthermore, existing sites along routes with high charging demand will be upgraded with additional charging points. These measures will enhance the customers’ charging experience and make sure that the IONITY network is prepared for the increasing demand for electric vehicle charging.
Solution for rapidly increasing electrification The electrification of the mobility sector is crucial to achieve increasingly urgent net zero targets. As most fossil fuel-powered cars are to be replaced by electric vehicles in the next 10 years in line with EU legislation, a massive expansion of charging infrastructure that is powered by 100% renewable energy is essential. Since 2017, IONITY has taken a leading role in this rapid transformation. The company now operates more than 1,500 charging points along European motorways in 24 countries. IONITY is a joint venture of BMW Group, Ford Motor Company, Hyundai Motor Group, Mercedes-Benz AG and Volkswagen Group with Audi and Porsche, and was founded to play a significant role in shaping the future of mobility. BlackRock is the first company from outside the automotive sector to be a shareholder in this joint venture through its Global Renewable Power platform. The BlackRock Global Renewable Power platform has invested directly in over 300 projects globally, including onshore wind, offshore wind, and solar photovoltaic projects. “The entry of BlackRock as a shareholder and the commitment of our current shareholders underline IONITY’s attractiveness for investors and confirm the strength of our strategy. The trust and investment of all shareholders will accelerate IONITY’s growth, the expansion of our high-power charging network across Europe and more broadly, the decarbonisation of the mobility sector”, says Dr Michael Hajesch, CEO of IONITY.
36 | January 2022
EV Charging – IONITY.indd 36
The goal is to offer EV drivers the highest possible reliability at all IONITY locations
At the test centre, IONITY carries out validation and interoperability tests between electric vehicles and charging stations as well as regression and software tests. This makes it possible to perform tests on almost all HPC charging stations available on the European market in one location. All tests are closely monitored and logged, and the charging processes are recorded in detail by the test equipment. The goal is to offer EV drivers the highest possible reliability at all IONITY locations, regardless of the vehicle manufacturer, and to use market innovations in the IONITY network only after they have successfully passed their own tests.
David Giordano, Global Head of Renewable Power at BlackRock says: “Electric vehicle charging infrastructure is vital to achieve a net zero future. IONITY is one of Europe’s leading EV charging networks, bringing together auto industry pioneers to create a seamless experience for emission-free driving across Europe. We are delighted to be supporting their growth ambition and providing our clients with access to an innovative company that is powering the clean energy transition.” IONITY has also recently opened its innovative technology test centre in Unterschleissheim, Germany – the world’s first e-mobility test site with full end-to-end testing, including testing on functional technologies such as Plug and Charge.
IONITY, ionity2025.eu
IONITY network roll out in numbers • €700m investment by 2025 • From 400 to more than 1,000 locations along high traffic corridors in Europe • Increase by more than four times from approximately 1,500 to 7,000 charging points • New HPC stations with 6-12 charging points • Expansion of existing locations depending on demand dynamics
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20/12/2021 15:42
Feed Unit
CMD Ltd’s 63A Betatrak power distribution system caters for both Standard Earth and Clean Earth (CE) applications. • 48hr lead time on standard Earth and Clean Earth (C/E) low noise powertrack and feed units (maximum 25 feed units and 50 track lengths). • Available in lengths of 1.2m, 1.8m, 2.4m, and 3.6m.
Powertrack
On Desk Power
Under Desk Power
Cable Grommet
Tap-off
Standard Earth and Clean Earth (C/E) low noise Betatrak
Call CMD on 01709 829511 or Edmundson Electrical on 0207 2323000 to place your order
TODAY! www.cmd-ltd.com | sales@cmd-ltd.com Untitled-3 2
16/12/2021 10:10
SPECIAL FEATURE
EV CHARGING
WORK STARTS ON THE UK’S LARGEST PUBLIC EV CHARGING HUB Work has started on the UK’s largest public electric vehicle (EV) charging hub at Redbridge Park & Ride, which will see the installation of 38 fast and ultra-rapid EV chargers for drivers.
T
he Oxford Superhub, which is being developed by Pivot Power, part of EDF Renewables, and Oxford City Council, as part of Energy Superhub Oxford, will be located at Redbridge Park & Ride. The start of work is a key milestone in the completion of the project, as Oxford is set to launch the UK’s first Zero Emission Zone in February 2022.
The Oxford Superhub The Oxford Superhub is expected to open to the public in spring 2022. It will see the installation of: • 10 Fastned chargers with up to 300kW of power, capable of adding up to 300 miles of range in just 20 minutes for hundreds of EV drivers per day. As demand grows, Fastned will bring the charger total to at least 14. • 16 Gamma Energy chargers with between 7-22kW of power. • 12 250kW Tesla Superchargers will be available for Tesla vehicle users.
The Oxford Superhub is expected to open to the public in spring 2022
The Superhub will be powered by 100% renewable energy, partly generated by Fastned’s trademark solar roof, and all makes and models of EVs will be able to charge at the highest rates possible simultaneously.
“Chargers will be open 24/7, offering charging for a wide range of electric vehicle types”
Energy Superhub Oxford
Chargers will be open 24/7, offering charging for a wide range of electric vehicle types. Payment can be via a simple contactless method, as well as app-based payments. An on-site café is being planned, so that drivers can buy drinks and snacks, ensuring the charging process is as convenient as possible. Pivot Power’s EV charging network will provide 10MW of power on site – enough to meet the growing need for EV charging in the area for the next 30 years. Unlike any other UK charging hub, the Oxford Superhub will be directly connected to National Grid’s high voltage transmission network, providing the power needed to charge large numbers of EVs quickly, without putting strain on the local electricity network. It will share this connection with a 50MW hybrid battery – the largest ever deployed – which will combine lithium-ion and vanadium flow technology to enable more renewable power onto the grid. The network also has capacity to expand to key locations throughout Oxford to meet mass EV charging needs, from buses and taxis to commercial fleets. The Oxford Superhub is one of up to 40 similar sites planned by Pivot Power across the UK to help deliver charging infrastructure for the estimated 36 million EVs by 2040.
ESO is a £41m world-first project, led by Pivot Power, which integrates rapid EV charging, hybrid battery storage, low carbon heating and smart energy management technologies to support Oxford to be zero carbon by 2040 or earlier. The project is part-funded by government and is being delivered by a consortium of companies which comprises Pivot Power, Oxford City Council, University of Oxford, Habitat Energy, Kensa Contracting, and Invinity Energy Systems. ESO will save 10,000 tonnes of CO2 a year once fully operational – equivalent to taking over 2,000 cars off the road, increasing to 25,000 tonnes by 2032. The project provides a model for cities across the UK and globally to cut carbon and improve air quality.
Zero Carbon Oxford ESO supports the Council’s ambition to become a Zero Carbon Council by 2030 or earlier, and achieve a Zero Carbon Oxford by 2040 or earlier, 10 years ahead of the Government’s 2050 deadline. Sales of EVs in Oxfordshire are already higher than the national average, and the Zero Carbon Oxford Roadmap shows that to reach net zero by 2040, 25% of cars in Oxford need to be electric by 2025, 80% by 2030, and 100% by 2035. ESO will create the EV charging infrastructure needed to give more people the confidence to make the switch. Councillor Tom Hayes, Deputy Leader of Oxford City Council and Cabinet Member for Green Transport and Zero Carbon Oxford, Oxford City Council says: “This is an exciting next step in the Energy Superhub Oxford project, and I am delighted that work has now started at Redbridge Park & Ride to install the UK’s largest public electric vehicle hub. Providing electric vehicle charging infrastructure is crucial to help us achieve a Zero Carbon Oxford by 2040 and to support the uptake of electric vehicles.” Tim Rose, programme manager for Energy Superhub Oxford at Pivot Power, says: “Energy Superhub Oxford is creating the power infrastructure needed to supercharge electric vehicle uptake across Oxford and meet the demand for fast, easy and reliable charging for decades to come. Pivot Power is proud to be delivering this visionary project in partnership with Oxford City Council, to accelerate net zero and create a blueprint for cleaner, greener cities across the UK and beyond.” Energy Superhub Oxford, energysuperhuboxford.org
38 | January 2022
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20/12/2021 14:16
Does your EVSE kit help you test, or does it just test?
Metrel’s charging point test kit is exceptional! The adapter will simulate a vehicle using the charge point and will complete all the functional tests and load test the installation. Meanwhile, the multi-function tester will automatically do all the electrical safety tests, let you record and store the results. So you can issue the certificate without added hassle. Helping you move on to the next job without delay!
Find out how the Metrel range of EVSE kits can accelerate your business. CALL TODAY 01924 245000 or mail info@metrel.co.uk for more information.
Metrel UK Ltd. Unit 16, 1st Qtr Business Park Blenheim Road Epsom Surrey KT19 9QN Phone: 01924 245000 E-mail: info@metrel.co.uk Web: www.metrel.co.uk
Untitled-1 1
Twitter-@MetrelUkLtd Facebook - @MetrelUk Instagram- metrelukltd
23/08/2021 09:46
SPECIAL FEATURE
EMERGENCY LIGHTING
SELF-TEST EMERGENCY LIGHTING SAVES TIME AND MONEY Neil Baldwin, Managing Director at ESP, looks at the self-test area of the emergency lighting sector and how it can save building owners time and money.
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All emergency lighting installations must have routine tests carried out
40 | January 2022
Emergency Lighting – ESP.indd 40
mergency lighting is a legal requirement in almost every building, with one simple, life-saving task: to provide light if a power outage shuts down a building’s standard operational lighting. It is the responsibility of building owners and those in charge to prove that the emergency lighting systems are working correctly and are regularly maintained so that they are in full working order. All emergency lighting installations must have routine tests carried out, with each system luminaire the subject of daily, monthly and annual testing. These tests should all be documented, with the results including maintenance and rectification results all held on file. Whilst the testing of emergency lighting does not take much effort and isn’t difficult, manually inspecting every single lighting luminaire for lamp starting, operation and duration performance can be a very labour intensive and therefore expensive task. However, with the latest improvements in technology, routine testing can be simple, automatic and therefore much less expensive. It is now possible for building owners to take advantage of emergency lighting equipment that ‘self-tests’ in accordance with the relevant standards. Installing self-test emergency lighting units can reduce the burden of testing emergency lighting installations, as they perform all mandatory testing automatically, removing the need for manual testing to be carried out by the
user or building owner. The resulting reduction of labour time leads to inevitable cost savings. Whilst the initial costs for the products may be higher, overall, they will provide a very short payback period – making them an ideal option that should be given consideration at the beginning of any project. The benefits of self-test emergency light units include ease of installation, with no need for key switches or additional data cables, for example. Convenience is also a major plus, with mandatory tests carried out without disruption to the normal use of the building, and any faults identified. The self-test units identify faults in luminaires and any faults are then highlighted to maintenance personnel, saving them the time and effort it would take to search the building in question for faults. Self-test units use an accurate internal clock programmed to interrupt the permanent mains supply at set intervals, initiating emergency lighting tests. Short duration weekly and monthly tests and annual full duration tests are automatically activated, with the results shown via an LED indicator on the light. The responsible person only needs to check the indicator and it means that only lights with reported faults will need to be attended to by maintenance personnel. During initial power up of a self-test unit, an automatic commissioning stage will begin. The internal clock will commence at a random time between 0 and 24 hours – this avoids the luminaires all going into test at the same time. After the initial charge up time (up to 72 hours), the unit will carry out a full duration test. After all initial tests are completed successfully the inbuilt processor will start the standard programmed test schedule, reporting failing functions via the status LED. In addition, it is also possible to initiate a manual test on self-test emergency lighting fittings for extra peace of mind. Monitoring results is straightforward. A single bicolour LED indicates the system status. A green LED on constant with a pulse once every minute shows that the micro-processor is active and functioning. A flashing red LED identifies a fault condition is present. If a fault is resolved, the LED indicator will return to green. The LED statuses are illustrated in Table 1. As a supplier of safety and security products through the electrical wholesale channel, ESP continues to develop its Duceri range of emergency lighting to meet the latest standards and to offer the
electricalcontractingnews.com
latest technologies. The company’s range of Self-Test Emergency Light Fittings offers numerous benefits over standard fittings by reducing the costs and time associated with manual testing and inspection. The self-test products within the Duceri emergency lighting range include:
Emergency lighting is a legal requirement in almost every building
• 3W LED Maintained Emergency Self-contained Downlight with Self-Test and Interchangeable Open and Corridor Lens • 3W LED Emergency Open Lens Downlight with Self-Test • 9W LED IP65 Non-Maintained Emergency Twin Spot with Self-Test • 3W LED IP65 Maintained Emergency Bulkhead with Self-Test • 3W LED Maintained Emergency Exit Box with Self-Test They have all been tested and comply with the latest standards. Table 1: LED statuses
ESP, espuk.com
LED colour
LED status
Condition
Green
Constant
Normal battery charging mode
Green
Slow flash
Two minute duration test
Fast flash
Three hour duration test
One flash
Battery failure
Two flash
Lamp failure
Three flash
Duration test failure
Red
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20/12/2021 14:16
UPGRADE YOUR
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Untitled-2 2 ECN November ad - Fort.indd 1
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01/12/2021 11:26 11:05 13/10/2021
SPECIAL FEATURE
EMERGENCY LIGHTING
WHAT PRODUCT WHERE: RED ARROW’S SITE LIGHTING SIMULATION When the clocks turn back every autumn, sales of site lighting skyrocket – as contractors are suddenly faced with darker evenings, shorter days and less natural light on site.
B
The company has built a site lighting stimulator to demonstrate 110V site lighting products in situ
oth contractors and wholesalers alike are often caught unawares by the change (thanks to busy work schedules and the end-of-summer trade counter rush) and, as a result, find themselves making a frantic dash to source the right products to illuminate worksites over the darker days of winter. As a result, many fall back to using the same products they have used before – but, thanks to advances in 110V lighting, there are more efficient, flexible and easy to use options available that they may be missing out on. Red Arrow has created a solution to help commercial contractors and wholesalers choose the right lighting options for the job at the hand. At its brand-new facility in Barnsley, the company has built a site lighting simulator to demonstrate 110V site lighting products in situ: from festoons and floodlights to bulkheads. A mezzanine has been converted into a typical worksite, with part assembled stud walls and unmade floors fitted with a full range of 110V site lighting. Contractors and wholesalers are given the opportunity to see new and long-running products in action, to get a better idea of the benefits, USPs and best use cases of the products available.
Floodlights
A range of floodlights are available to provide perimeter and security lighting on site. These floodlights are perfect for mounting at height, and to increase security by lighting a wider area around the site. With surge protection fitted as standard, they are a robust choice for use on construction sites. Best for: security and perimeter lighting.
Bulkheads
Red Arrow has created a solution to help commercial contractors and wholesalers choose the right lighting options
With maintained and non-maintained options, site bulkheads can be used for general security illumination or as a backup light source in case of a power interruption, which can be common on site, particularly when construction is underway.
Here are the product ranges that are on display:
Best for: keeping sites secure or providing a backup in case of power disruption on site.
Festoon
Festoon kits provide flexible and adaptable lighting that can be hung around a site’s framework. Three versions are available – 12m, 22m, 50m – but it’s the 12m that offers the most flexibility: it can be connected with up to 20 more of the same fitting. Simply unplug festoon in areas that are not currently being used and plug it into where it is needed, to make your festoon more adaptable to the space.
Battery floodlights
A self-supporting light source that contractors can keep in their vehicle, battery floodlights are a good option to have as an efficient backup light source in case of power failure. Best for: keeping on board a vehicle as an emergency backup light source.
Best for: a flexible approach that can be easily adapted to any area.
Finding the right product for the job
Uplights and globe lights
Red Arrow’s site lighting simulation is a great way to see products in use to help contractors and wholesalers discover new products and identify what’s best for specific site requirements, but Red Arrow has also extended that concept to its packaging and product information. A separate Trade Counter demonstration area at the facility illustrates how Red Arrow products can be displayed in branch, to give contractors easy access to all the information they need prior to purchase – and wholesalers the information they need to support at point of sale. Products are broken down into specific areas, with colour-coded packaging designed to give clear pointers to where they are most commonly used: site, industrial, outdoor, commercial, downlights and emergency. These product categories also form the backbone of Red Arrow’s new website and forthcoming catalogue and are a core part of the company’s commitment to making commercial lighting products accessible and easy to use for contractors.
To fully illuminate a site area, uplights and globe lights are available with a 360-degree light distribution. Both products feature a switchable emergency backup to conserve battery power and can be moved to different areas of the site as needed without losing illumination. Best for: 360-degree illumination from a single point.
Non-corrosive lighting
The backbone of any site installation, the non-corrosive lights on show have a robust IP65 body and stainless-steel clips as standard. A self-supporting tripod or frame version is also displayed, to show how non-corrosive products can be used in specialist applications – such as plaster work – or to provide greater flexibility when moving lights from one area to another. Best for: lighting that can withstand heavy use on active building sites.
42 | January 2022
Emergency Lighting – Red Arrow.indd 42
electricalcontractingnews.com
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Red Arrow, redarrowtrading.com
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20/12/2021 15:46
SITE
LIGHTING Don’t be left in the
Dark this winter! At Red Arrow we have an extensive range of IP65 rated, high quality, reliable site lighting. From Non-corrosive Weatherguards and Connectable Festoon Kits to portable Plasterers A-Frames and Globe 360º Workspace Light, we have site lighting to suit every application.
SEE OUR ONLINE SITE LIGHTING BROCHURE
Why not get a copy
of our new catalogue?
Call us now on 0114 279 8999 redarrowelectrical.co.uk
Untitled-1 2
20/12/2021 09:49
SPECIAL FEATURE
HEALTH & SAFETY
EDUCATION MESSAGE NEEDS TO GO VIRAL Paul Dawson, Commercial Director at Niglon asks, what does the phrase ‘antiviral’ mean to you?
D
id you realise there are materials being marketed as antiviral which are actually effective only against a type of virus which isn’t necessarily harmful to humans? Or that ‘kill rates’ of different viruses can vary significantly, even when placed on the exact same product surface? The team at Niglon wasn’t prepared to take the ‘antiviral’ messaging at face value, and that’s why the company engaged with leading experts from the University of Manchester to further its knowledge about how viruses act on surfaces. The team also commissioned testing on its own products as well as other manufacturers’ within the market – to educate itself and like-minded customers. Niglon needed to explore whether individuals are being misled and potentially put at risk, because the company sensed the ‘antiviral’ message some companies promote didn’t perfectly reflect the scientific reality.
Concerning results What’s clear is that contractors who’ve installed ‘antiviral’ products to keep their customers safe, may not have been provided with sufficient detail by manufacturers to enable them to make informed purchasing decisions. It would be reasonable for any of us to think you can’t pick up any type of virus from touching an ‘antiviral’ switch plate – or at least that the chance of contracting COVID-19 or any other virus would be significantly reduced. In reality, the situation is far more nuanced, and what appears to be going on is an unfortunate example of certain businesses trying to extract value from a terrible situation without giving all the information necessary to keep their customers safe. Or maybe some manufacturers don’t even know the science themselves…
44 | January 2022
Health & Safety – Niglon.indd 44
Where’s your proof?
What does this mean for us?
Through Niglon’s research and expert consultations, the company has learned there are different types of viruses (enveloped and non-enveloped), those that use human cells as their host and those that affect bacteria. The ones that use bacteria as their hosts are known as bacteriophages, or phages, and they actually live harmlessly within most of our guts. In fact, there are trials across the world where they’re being used to target drug-resistant bacteria as an alternative to antibiotics – showing they’re not only harmless to humans, but in some cases can actually be beneficial! ISO21702:2019 is the standard recognised for testing antiviral efficacy on non-porous products, like electric light switches and socket plates. This testing regime allows for substitute viruses like phages to be used (perfectly legitimately, the company adds), instead of the really harmful viruses, which can spread easily. But test results showed a notable difference in the rate at which a virus is neutralised from a surface (the aforementioned ‘kill rate’) depending whether a phage or mammalian virus (which impacts us humans) was used. Some products may significantly reduce the transmission of a phage but not a mammalian virus. So, they’re ‘antiviral’ when it comes to phage, but not when it comes to viruses that impact mammals. Technically then these products may be legitimately described as antiviral, even though they won’t stop coronavirus or other ‘human’ viruses? Another key point to make from Niglon’s research is that there is no silver bullet when it comes to antiviral efficacy. One virus can be affected very differently to the next, and the contact time (how long the test was conducted over) also differs from test to test. The company believes that all antiviral claims should be accompanied by specifics; which particular virus strains have been tested, on what product, for how long, and under what test conditions. Nothing less than total transparency will do, especially when it’s people’s health at stake.
Niglon says that it is categorically not going to state its products are ‘antiviral’ until it is truly confident that they actively reduce transmission of certain viruses that cause illness to human beings. This is what it believes its customers would understand from the term, and the action they would expect any responsible and trustworthy company to take. Niglon is continuing its investigative work focused on potential modifications to materials or coatings, which could lead to that outcome, so it may be something it is able to bring to the industry in the near future. And the company says that when it gets to that point, it will be sure to include all the specifics, because anything less would not be acceptable.
electricalcontractingnews.com
What does this mean for you? If you’re considering installing a product based on the claim it is ‘antiviral’ then Paul strongly encourages you to do some research into exactly what this means. Ask as many questions as you need. And if the manufacturer is unable or unwilling to back up its claims, consider just how honest and open it is being in using the ‘antiviral’ label. Because it’s also all too easy and (commercially speaking) tempting for many companies right now, to use the word ‘antiviral’ within their advertising campaigns and product promotions, for the wrong reasons. And contractors are at real risk of being taken advantage of through a lack of openness and the limited dissemination of knowledge on the subject at this time. Niglon has produced a free guide based on its research and testing to help explain some of the key terms around the subject and share its knowledge. The guide will be available at www.niglon.co.uk/news/antiviral. Niglon, niglon.co.uk
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20/12/2021 14:18
SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY
COMPANY SHOWCASE
GLORIOUS ST SWITHIN’S After extensive refurbishment The Salt House, a former Co-Op Hall, has now become the new home for worshipers of the Church of St Swithin’s, and Axis Mechanical & Electrical Consulting Engineers based in Nottingham, specified luminaires from Luceco.
L
ocated in Lincoln, St Swithin’s Church could no longer be used for services due to its state of repair, so an alternative building was sought. The Salt House is located directly opposite the church and has now been converted into a community church complete with a café and social hub for charities and social enterprises. The principal luminaires specified included suspended LuxFrame fittings, Ice Linear and recessed Platinum downlighters. Dimmable 3000K suspended LuxFrame luminaires were used in the main area. LuxFrame is a minimalist LED luminaire designed for ceiling grid applications or suspended as a pendant luminaire as at Salt House, enabling the creation of imaginative and contemporary lighting designs. Office and administration areas were lit with Ice Linear. Contemporary and stylish, Ice Linear is a transparent optic pendant luminaire providing both upward and downward light distribution. Supplied complete with adjustable wire suspensions, Ice Linear delivers an enhanced lit effect, the sleek transparent design complements modern interiors even when turned off. IP rated LuxPanels were installed in the kitchen with Surface and Recessed Platinum 3000K luminaires fitted in the servery and reception areas. Platinum Mini along with Element downlighters were used in WCs. Platinum is a high performance 220mm
diameter downlight with an efficiency up to 130Llm/cW, featuring a unique swing tab design ensuring installation is quick and easy. The Surface Mount format provides an opportunity for creative lighting design using a high specification luminaire where a recessed ceiling void is not available. Platinum Surface Mount can be used as a pendant with suspension wires, or BESA fixed directly onto a solid surface. Recent enhancements to the recessed Platinum include a further optimised heatsink and a
reduction in bezel thickness from 6mm to 2.5mm on a standard IP44 bezel as well as being magnetic. As well as being a retail outlet for the Co-Op and a former nightclub, The Salt House is also referenced in the history of the immediate area of the city where salt was once warehoused for distribution. Now a contemporary church and community hub, The Salt House will be the new home for over 450 members of Glorious St Swithin’s! Luceco, luceco.com
ANSELL UNVEILS NEW HIGH BAY LIGHT Combining real value for money with the quality and performance you’d expect from Ansell Lighting, the Z LED Eco is a brand-new high bay light created by the British manufacturer. Slim and sleek in design, the suspension mounted luminaire is ideal for lighting up indoor and outdoor areas such as industrial, commercial and retail spaces, whilst its robust die-cast powder coated construction and heatsink delivers optimum thermals and performance. Built to withstand potential knocks, the Z LED Eco also has a high impact rating of IK06 and an excellent IP65 rating against environmental factors, ensuring the product is suited for use in harsh environments, where there may be exposure to water as well as dust in the air. Supplied with 1m of pre-wired H05RN-F cable, the lightweight Z LED Eco is quick and easy to install, it is also extremely versatile, compatible for use with drop rods, jack chain and catenary wire. The Z LED Eco is highly energy efficient when compared with HID or fluorescent fittings, providing real cost and energy savings. Ansell Lighting, anselluk.com
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Company Showcase.indd 45
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January 2022 | 45
20/12/2021 14:18
COMPANY SHOWCASE
SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY
SNICKERS WORKWEAR CLIMATE CONTROL – BASELAYER UNDERWEAR
ANTI-TAMPER SQUARELOCK WOODSCREW FROM UNICRIMP
The Snickers Workwear Baselayer clothing for professional tradesmen and women uses high-tech breathable fabrics for ventilation and body moisture transport for sustainable warmth and comfort. The Base-, Mid- and Top-layer clothing combines to keep you working dry, warm and comfortable wherever you are on site. With sustainability at the forefront of Snickers Workwear’s clothing philosophy, garments are available in recycled polyester and merino wool as well as the 37.5 technology ventilating fabric to suit different types of work in a variety of cold and wet weather conditions. The cutting-edge AllroundWork, FLEXIWork and LITEwork designs and fabrics will keep you warm and dry – so you won’t get cold, wet and shiver. All the garments are made from quick drying fabrics that come with special ventilation features to control and regulate the heat from your body. All in all, Snickers Workwear Baselayer clothing will give you the kind of warm, dry and fresh working comfort you wouldn’t have thought possible. Snickers Workwear, snickersworkwear.co.uk
OVIA ADDS LED WALL PACKS TO ITS FLOODLIGHT RANGE A new addition to Ovia’s floodlight range is Inceptor Murus – a range of LED Wall Packs with CTA Switch and a robust IK10 rated housing that makes them ideal in outdoor settings. Designed to be fast and simple to install, the IP66-rated Inceptor Murus is available in 15W and 25W options and in a choice of standard, photocell, and photocell and emergency versions. The photocell version can assist with energy saving by allowing the light to turn on and off at set lux levels. Inceptor Murus will turn on when the lux level is below 10-30 lux. Installation of the Murus is quick and easy, thanks to the Push Fit/Piano Key Terminal Block and the floodlight can be Besa box or trunking mounted. All models include a CTA switch, allowing the product to change colour temperature between Warm White 3000K, Cool White 4000K and Daylight 6000K. Inceptor Murus is available in a choice of anthracite grey or light grey finish and it comes with a five-year warranty. Ovia, oviauk.com
Unicrimp, part of the Scolmore Group of companies, has added a range of Anti-Tamper Squarelock Woodscrews to its growing Q-Crimp fixings collection. Ideal for hardwood, softwood, chipboard and fibreboards, the new Anti-Tamper Squarelock Woodscrews feature a square recess which allows for greater rotation and a more positive fastening than conventional cross and slotted screws. They feature a countersunk head, and the shank of the screw grips the wood and reduces the chance of splitting. The fully hardened bright zinc plated steel screws are available in a variety of sizes to cover all requirements – from 8 x ¾” to 10 x 3”. A Squarelock Woodscrew screwdriver bit is also available – to assist with high torque screwdriving without the risk of breaking the tip or damaging the screw. Unicrimp, unicrimp.com
ESP HAS CCTV DESIGN COVERED ESP has established itself as a reliable CCTV provider by ensuring consistency of stock, with high-end pre and aftersales support. Commercial applications requiring comprehensive IP POE or analogue systems are available to meet a wide range of requirements. Included in the range is a host of cameras with contemporary housing alongside vandal resistant options for vulnerable sites. Different lens specification for tailored viewing angles are also available including motorised control, fish-eye and PTZ solutions. Also available through ESP are essential accessories such as license free remote viewing software, POE extenders and switches for extended cable runs, deep camera bases for convenient system connections and simple to use test monitors for set-up and troubleshooting. With access to ESP’s comprehensive range of CCTV systems, as well as the support of a highly experienced technical team, contractors can now take advantage of ESP’s specialist design service. A team of dedicated design engineers will work with professional installers to assist with specifying the right system for project-based systems. ESP, espuk.com
MODE WIRING ACCESSORIES – A CLEAN BILL OF HEALTH With an increasing emphasis on infection control and building cleanliness, Scolmore continues to invest to ensure that its wiring accessory products offer enhanced hygiene properties. The company’s Mode, Mode Part M and Polar plates have recently undergone further independent testing and have achieved a 99.98% kill off rate against Influenza A (H1N1) after a 24-hour period. This latest testing further boosts the range’s hygiene credentials. Independent testing previously undertaken has also shown the products to have antiviral properties against enveloped and non-enveloped viruses. After a contact period of four hours, all tested plates were shown to have a 99.9% kill off rate against enveloped viruses and a 92% kill off rate against non-enveloped viruses. This antiviral testing is in addition to the antibacterial testing already carried out. Mode, Mode Part M and Polar ranges are all manufactured using Urea Formaldehyde, which has similar inherent properties to antimicrobial additives that inhibit the growth of infectious diseases. These antibacterial and antiviral certified switches and sockets are part of Scolmore’s Medical Solutions range. Scolmore, scolmore.com
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FULLY CHARGED FOR THE FUTURE Wieland Electric’s podis flat cable system provides an innovative and decentralised solution for supplying power to electric vehicle charging stations. Wallboxes can be supplied with energy easily and quickly, with significantly less effort and material consumption than a conventional installation, thanks to decentralised supply technology. The podis energy bus system is ideal for supplying electricity to charging stations. A large number of charging stations can be connected to a single supply line using this decentralised power distribution system. The feed-in or energy tap-off connection components can be placed at any point on the power bus. The podis components’ piercing contacts enable quick and flexible positioning of the connection modules. As a result, traditional time-consumers like cutting, stripping, and terminating are rendered obsolete. The feed into the energy bus can be set completely flexibly and freely - even centrally, allowing for an ideal load balance on the energy bus. The podis cable is a five-core flat cable system with a cross-section of 16mm2, rated at 63A, 600V. Wieland Electric, wieland-electric.com
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SPONSORED STORIES FROM THE INDUSTRY
COMPANY SHOWCASE
CONTROLLED LIGHT POLLUTION – MAXIMUM POWER Thorn Lighting has unveiled its new Altis luminaire. Powerful, flexible, and easy to install, it offers numerous CCT/CRI/TCLI and colour changing configuration options, making it the perfect choice for sports applications. With mixed optics as well as a flicker-free operation, the Altis floodlight is suitable for HDTV broadcasting. In addition, design optimisation is achieved through tiltable LED modules, delivering perfect uniformity with the minimum number of floodlights – saving on both space and cost. The Altis floodlight is available in 1, 2, or 3-module versions which allow for various optical configurations and installation options. This includes horizontal for reduced obtrusive light (0 cd at 90°) to tiltable (+/-60°) for sports applications. In the past, a 3-module version was the best way to control spill light and a ULOR of 0%. Now, this same protection can be achieved with a 2-module version. Symmetrical, asymmetrical and elliptical light distributions are available with the new Altis luminaire, and asymmetrical variants ensure no direct upward light with optional internal louvres. For stadiums that host televised events, lighting specifications for HD, 4K TV, and super slow-motion capabilities are key. Altis scores 90+ on the TCLI (Television Lighting Consistency Index), which broadcasters use to evaluate the performance of lighting for television and has a flicker factor of <1% as standard, offering slow motion broadcasting up to 1000fps. This high TCLI score indicates that the lighting will optimise the viewer experience by allowing cameras to capture bright and colourful images. The low flicker factor ensures broadcasters can film super-slow-motion replays without interruption. The new Altis is quick and easy to fit and position. As well as featuring a lightweight body, lateral arms for simple handling, and multiple installation positions, there is a quick-fix connection box and plug-in connectors for both the luminaire and the gearbox. Thorn Lighting, thornlighting.com
MERIDIAN LAUNCH GYPSUM WALL AND DOWN LIGHTS
TURN UP THE MUSIC Makita UK has launched two new radios. The DMR301 and MR007G offer outstanding output and have been designed to withstand tough site conditions. The new DMR301 DAB/DAB+ Job Site Radio is compatible with both LXT and CXT batteries and is the first job site radio in Makita’s line-up to offer battery charging (when powered by the mains using an AC adaptor). Professionals can use the same LXT or CXT batteries to power their tools and accessories on site, as well as keeping batteries charged across the working day. The MR007G DAB/DAB+ radio is now available in a special edition red finish. The MR007G is compatible with Makita’s LXT, XGT and CXT batteries and can also be mains powered using an AC adaptor jack. This radio is ideal for use on construction sites as it is dust and shower proof (IP65 rated) and includes elastomer bumpers. The MR007G can be wirelessly linked to mobile devices (within a radius of 10m) via Bluetooth and includes a USB port. Makita, makitauk.com
Meridian Lighting recently broadened its product portfolio with a range of Gypsum Wall and Down Lights. Providing modern day lighting solutions for any décor, all fittings are designed for plaster-in installation and finished in white to enable decorating with standard household paint. Top of the range is an Integrated 1w LED Wall Light with a 3000k warm white output, delivering 62 lumens and designed with a 20,000 hour life. The rest of the range is non-integrated with GU10 Square and Round Down Lights, the latter including an option supplied with a bevel and insert and finally an SES Wall Uplight. Whilst these fittings are designed for a maximum of 35w, they are also compatible with LED lamps. With a robust plaster construction and IP20 rated for indoor use, quality is doubly assured with CE approvals, whilst also being backed with two-year guarantees. CED Electrical, cedelectrical.co.uk
NIGLON LAUNCHES NEW CONNECTION BOXES When it comes to connection boxes, there are now even more options to choose from. The Niglon team has launched its IP66 Membrane Moulded Boxes, available in black, grey or white, which are weatherproof and UV resistant, meaning they’re ideal for use outdoors. An integrated gasket to ensure the perfect seal, dual option cable entry, and quick fixings mean the product couldn’t be simpler to install. Niglon’s Commercial Director, Paul Dawson, says: “We’re committed to extending our ranges to ensure we’ve got the right products for every installation. And we’re also committed to thoroughly researching and testing each new launch, so we can be proud to put the Niglon name on every single product.” To find out more about the 4,500 products across eight core categories (circuit protection, wiring accessories, installation essential, industrial accessories, cable management, lighting control, fixings and tools, control and automation), visit the Niglon website.
INTELLISENSE I7 IS THE INTELLIGENT CHOICE National Ventilation has launched its Monsoon Energysaver IntelliSense i7 fan. A clever multi-function fan, the 7 in 1 IntelliSense i7 bathroom fan is the intelligent choice for wholesalers, electricians and households alike. With a choice of intermittent or continuous running, this ultra-quiet, ultramodern, smart bathroom fan runs extremely quietly at low speed at just 17dB(A). The ingenious fan also offers an intelligent humidity sensor, a useful overrun timer and presence sensor, an airing function to avoid stuffy odours in the bathroom, while offering a high performance of up to 110m3/hr. Versatile enough to ventilate bathrooms, toilets and utility areas, the 7 in 1 IntelliSense i7 boasts six core ventilation modes including: three continuous ventilation modes; three intermittent modes; plus, one heat mover mode that allows the fan to transfer surplus heat to an adjacent room. Suitable for installation in wet areas (IP44) such as WCs and bathrooms, the fan offers further installation flexibility since it is suitable for both wall or ceiling mounting. National Ventilation, nationalventilation.co.uk
Niglon, niglon.co.uk
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AV Reception & Distribution Today & Tomorrow
Make sure you don’t miss out on what has become the industry’s number ONE independent show for signal reception and distribution, and is FREE for all visitors to attend.
Evolving Connectivity Media Partner
w w w. e v o l v i n g c o n n e c t i v i t y. c o m
9.30am till 5.00pm Thursday 17th March 2022 The National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham Untitled-2 2
15/12/2021 15:51
