Electrical Review - December 2017

Informing the electrical industry for 140 years

December 2017 Volume 251 | No 12 www.electricalreview.co.uk

ABB The power of innovation

Cabling The intelligent approach to cabling

Lightning protection When lightning strikes

CONTENTS | 3

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10

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NEWS Threat or opportunity

LIGHTING Common emergency lighting mistake

CABLE MANAGEMENT Cutting installation time: the intelligent approach to cabling

08 GOSSAGE Gossage:gossip

12 BEG Sound advice EDITOR: Elinore Mackay 020 8319 1807 elinorem@electricalreview.co.uk PRODUCTION MANAGER Alex Gold 020 7933 8999 alexg@sjpbusinessmedia.com SALES MANAGER Sunny Nehru 020 7933 8974 sunnyn@sjpbusinessmedia.com

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30 DOBLE Joined forces

LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY Always evolving

ACCOUNT MANAGER Amanda McCreddie 020 7933 8972 Amanda@electricalreview.co.uk PUBLISHER Wayne Darroch PRINTING BY Buxton Paid subscription enquiries Tel: +44 (0) 1635 879361 electricalreview@circdata.com SJP Business Media PO Box 6009, Thatcham Berkshire, RG19 4QB, UK

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LIGHTNING PROTECTION When lightning strikes

LIGHTING

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4 | NEWS

Leeds tech business gets boost from successful local exporter A Leeds-based electronics manufacturing business, Daletech Electronics, has been given free strategic export advice from an award-winning Yorkshire firm as part of a new export network that is exclusive to businesses in the Leeds City Region.

The advice and mentoring from Radio Design director Eric Hawthorn will help Daletech directors realise ambitions for growth into Europe and beyond under the new Government-backed ExportExchange programme.

The scheme puts seasoned exporters, or ‘patrons’ in touch with Yorkshire SMEs so that they can share first-hand expert knowledge with businesses in the Leeds City Region that want to know more about selling overseas.

Eric Hawthorn, managing director of Bradford-based wireless infrastructure firm Radio Design has been an ExportExchange patron since the programme launched in July this year. Through the scheme he has made contact with Daletech, and is providing the business with free, practical advice

that will enable it to begin selling its high quality, low volume Leeds-manufactured electronics overseas.

Daletech managing director Tracey Dawson said: “We are just at the start of our export journey and the help that Eric has given us as a patron on the ExportExchange programme has been invaluable. To have someone on hand who has made a huge success of exporting and is able to pass on that real-world expertise and knowledge, as well as being there to field all our questions, really is the kind of resource that money can’t buy.

“With Eric’s help we now have a clear view of the road ahead and have mapped out a strategy that should position us to be able to start selling our electronic manufacturing services in Europe. Having his advice available as we progress towards that point is immensely reassuring and helpful.”

Daletech now has a two-year growth plan in place which will see the business consolidate its UK manufacturing base and take on

new engineering and marketing staff that will boost its current workforce of eight.

Dawson and her fellow director Andrew Shenton hope to begin exporting in 2019.

Mr Hawthorn said: “Being able to help a Yorkshire business like Daletech that is in a similar industry to ourselves, by sharing my experiences via ExportExchange, has been extremely rewarding. There’s a huge range of help and advice out there on exports, but there’s nothing quite like being able to consult someone who has been on that journey themselves. I only wish this had been available when Radio Design first began venturing into selling overseas.”

Based at Salts Mill, Bradford, Radio Design is a £33m turnover manufacturer of breakthrough technology that enables mobile networks to slash costs by sharing transmission masts. The business employs 290 people in Bradford, as well as 160 in India and China, and received the Queen’s Award for International Trade in 2015.

ExportExchange offers free advice to firms new to selling overseas from companies that are already successful exporters. Launched in July, some 60 experienced Yorkshire export businesses have signed up to become official ‘patrons’ of the scheme, including Seabrook Crisps, Huddersfield Town Football Club, Taylors of Harrogate and Paxman Coolers.

The ExportExchange programme is backed by the European Regional Development Fund and supported by the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership (LEP), the Department for International Trade (DIT), and a number of private sector export specialists.

al generation in the “capacity auction”.

And that the list of innovations goes on across the energy sector. Smart technologies to help people save money in their homes are key.

Clark said this means “taking the opportunity to enhance our energy security, particularly in our electricity market, through a smarter, much more responsive system”.

And, “continuing to reduce our carbon emissions and to make sure that this transformation benefits our wider economy”.

One example of that is the work government has been doing is on battery technology and ultra-low emission vehicles.

It has launched the Faraday challenge – designed to ensure that the UK is the place in the world where new battery technology is commercialised.

Bsria responds to lecture Bsria has responded to a recent speech given by Greg Clark, secretary of state for business, energy and industrial strategy to the Institute of Energy Economics highlights how the UK can cut the cost of energy; cut how much carbon the country generates; drive economic growth and improve the quality of life.

Clark said “he is looking forward to a low carbon economy and putting Britain on a path to a prosperous low carbon future in which we could benefit industrially as well as economically from the changes”.

He added large-scale, low cost batteries started outbidding some more conventionElectrical Review | December 2017

6 | NEWS

Power quality in HVAC applications Most people can remember a time when they’ve walked into a room and seen one person dressed for the arctic while the person next to them looks like they’re in the Bahamas. Although disagreements over heating like these have led to fights in some offices, for most businesses poor power quality in HVAC systems can do more damage financially. Here, Steve Hughes, managing director of REO UK, explains how to keep your HVAC running cool when things get hot Power quality is a term that many people use but few fully understand. Typically associated with a stable supply of mains electricity, power quality covers a range of problems, including the continuity of the supply of electricity, fluctuations and spikes in voltage and current, as well as transients or harmonic currents.

For years, power quality was a problem almost exclusively reserved for industrial applications. When manufacturers began using non-linear, switched, devices like variable speed drives (VSDs) to control the speed of a motor driving a conveyor belt, they had to pay attention to the effect these devices have on the mains supply.

The use of switch-mode power supplies (SMPS) results in harmonic currents in the electrical supply. Here, the current waveform expands to accommodate multiples of the fundamental 50Hz frequency. This means that the device using power is not only consuming more electricity — sending energy bills through the roof — but it can also cause motor windings and transformers to overheat and lead to inefficiency and possible breakdowns.

Electrical Review | December 2017

In recent years, the popularity of SMPS in computer systems and laptops, as well as in phone chargers and consumer electrical equipment, has created a power quality problem in HVAC applications. Combine this with the fact that most buildings, offices and residential and commercial facilities have some form of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) it is easy to see the scale of the problem.

Poor power quality can damage HVAC components including heat exchangers, fans, pump motors, condensers and furnaces, reducing their lifespan and raising energy costs.

Facilities managers responsible for a building’s HVAC system are also obliged to meet industry standards such as EN61800-3, which specifies the limits of electromagnetic emissions, immunity levels and testing methods for power drive systems (PDS) — the parts of a VSD that control driven equipment.

The standard identifies four categories where PDSs can be used in one of two environments. The first environment looks at domestic premises, low voltage networks, houses, apartments and residential buildings. The second looks at industrial buildings and those supplied by a dedicated

transformer such as factories and plants.

Depending on the category, the standard either lets anyone install the PDS or requires installation by a professional.

According to the standard, a PDS rated at less than 1000V can be installed by anyone in domestic premises. This is already causing problems as the demand for apartment buildings grows. Apartment buildings typically use more sophisticated building management systems, with electronics controlling the heating, lifts, extraction, doors, telecoms and internet-over-mains connections, all of which can be compromised by poor power quality, ultimately hampering the user’s experience.

To enable facilities managers to use drives properly in their HVAC system, REO UK has developed an entire suite of products dedicated to eliminating power quality problems in HVAC applications. The REO Unity range comprises electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) filters, mains chokes, output chokes, sinewave filters and powerline filters.

So, the next time you feel like wearing your shorts to the office, make sure your HVAC system is running as cool as you look.

8 | GOSSAGE

GOSSAGE

Jobs for the Boys

Gas and Hot Air

A fascinating evidence session at the House of Commons select committee on Business and Energy has revealed that the government really cannot guarantee that Britain will have enough trained nuclear inspectors ready to work in fifteen months time These inspectors are needed, because at the same time as quitting the EU in March 2019, energy minister Richard Harrington is committed to leaving Euratom, the agency that has regulated the nuclear industry across Europe since 1957.

Euratom may have done a “good job”, but there is no question of remaining in it, as some have demanded, or of even having “associate membership”. But Harrington told MPs he is sure there is “plenty of time” to recruit the staff needed - although he seems to have no intention of offering any firm guarantee.

The woman whose job it is to set up the new regime, Mina Golshan, of the existing Office for Nuclear Regulation, maintains she is confident Britain can continue to meet its international safeguarding obligations after March 2019. Her Office has managed to recruit four new safeguards inspectors, but needs more time to fill other specialised roles. Indeed she admitted the agency would need a further two years to set up a bespoke UK regime and even this timescale was a “tall order”.

The biggest problem is recruiting new safeguards inspectors from a “limited pool of expertise”. She continued: “To get to a point where we can deliver a regime by 2019, we need 10 to 12 additional inspectors for us to be able to be up and running - and by two years after that probably around 20 to 25 inspectors,” she told the committee. These scientists can earn up to £99,000 per year.

Presumably all of these will by definition need to have British passports. After all, the main reason for this upheaval is to demonstrate that we can Take Back Control without having a whole load of foreigners telling us what we can do. I wish Ms Golshan well in her recruitment drive. Itself yet another of the hitherto unforeseen costs of Brexit.

Gas industry firms are spending millions influencing European policymakers to ensure continued reliance on fossil fuels for decades to come, a new report from campaign group Corporate Europe Observatory (CEO) claims.

The report warns that gas lobby groups have used their financial firepower to push the “myth” that gas is a clean fuel in order to win financial and political backing from the European Commission for potentially useless pipelines and other infrastructure.

Significantly gas industry representatives met with the two European commissioners in charge of climate and energy policy and their chief advisors on less than 460 times in the past two-and-a-half years, Eight of the 10 most frequent business visitors received by EU climate chief Miguel Arias Canete and VP for energy union Maros Sefcovic were linked to the gas industry.

In contrast, it appears that the number of such discussions held with representatives of the European electricity industry do not run into three figures. Could this be because Eurelectric will keep disparaging EU initiatives like the emissions trading scheme (EU:ETS) as producing “junk bonds”?

Electrical Review | December 2017

“Opposition is about asking awkward questions” On a single day’s official House of Commons Order Paper, there were no less than seven separate parliamentary Questions placed by the Green MP for Brighton, Caroline Lucas. Each concerned the Oxford professor, Dieter Helm, who had just produced a review of the costs of electricity policy, commissioned by the Business Secretary Greg Clarke.

Amongst the information she wanted to know was who had drafted the accompanying document entitled “Professor Dieter Helm declaration of interest”; and what steps Clarke had taken to assess the completeness and accuracy of that information.

Then she asked what Clarke had done to ensure that Professor Helm’s business and investment interests did not represent a conflict of interest in relation to the cost of energy review; what steps had been taken to ensure that Professor Helm’s business and investment interests did not represent a conflict of interest in relation to the cost of energy review; and whether Clarke was satisfied that Professor Helm has fully disclosed his interests in relation to energy companies. And would he list any financial interests Professor Helm might have in other companies that are active in the UK energy sector?

Finally the MP wanted to know what assessment had been made of the potential merits of restricting Professor Helm from (a) advising companies working in the UK energy sector and (b) altering any financial interests he might have in companies working in the UK energy sector until after Ministerial decisions informed by the cost of energy review have been implemented.

The Ministerial response palely concluded that “it would not be proportionate to restrict Professor Helm’s future activities”. I think you can take it that Caroline Lucas is not a great fan of Dieter Helm. I wonder why that should be.

“Debauching the currency” The recent spike in the price of bitcoins to more than £7,000 has delighted cryptocurrency speculators. They think it vindicates their belief that bitcoin is not just an experimental currency, but also a viable asset class in its own right. The irony is that the further bitcoin mutates into a price-defying asset class, the more expensive and electricity-intensive it becomes as a medium to maintain.

Every single transaction eats up power, requiring 215 kilowatt-hours of electricity.

That is the same as an average household uses in an entire week. If demand continues to mushroom, the electricity consumption of bitcoin trading will be equivalent to that of a developed country like Switzerland or the Netherlands.

Since bitcoin’s primary purpose is entirely for speculation rather than transaction, it strikes me that this energy wastage serves very little constructive social purpose at all.

10 | LIGHTING

Common emergency lighting mistakes Operating commercial premises can present many challenges. As well as providing and maintaining the comfort and welfare of the occupants who may be employees, students or patients, attention must be paid to health and safety. Peter Adams, support services manager at Mackwell outlines some of the common mistakes and how to correct them

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nlike residential and private dwellings, buildings which are used for the intentions outlined above must comply with various regulations and legislation driven by government orders and the Health and Safety executive.

Safety critical resources must be put in place such as fire detection warning and escape systems, sprinkler systems and emergency lighting.

Emergency lighting is lighting provided for use when the normal lighting fails in order that occupants can evacuate the building in a safe and orderly manner.

Outlined below are some of the most common mistakes together with recommendations and advice on how to correct them to remain compliant.

Electrical Review | December 2017

MISSING RISK ASSESSMENTS Risk assessments are a legal requirement for commercial premises and should be undertaken at design stage and regularly thereafter but more importantly at times of alteration to the fabric or structure, changes to the internal design such as partitions and other measures which may impact on the building layout.

Failure to carry out regular and efficient risk assessments can result in many longterm problems, particularly when it comes to the emergency lighting scheme.

Furthermore, failure to adhere to the right procedures and booking regular risk assessments may result in new requirements and legislation being missed.

Risk assessments should be completed by a ‘Competent Person’ who has received

the proper training for assessing a building fully. If using external companies to carry out risk assessments on a consistent basis, they should be fully accredited and competent.

Alternatively the task can be assigned to an employee subject to adequate training being provided and undertaken.

Documenting risk assessments is also a vital part of the process. Having solid evidence that these important appraisals have been completed allows them to be submitted to fire authorities or other appropriate legislative bodies when requested.

FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH OTHER LEGISLATION Completion of the initial risk assessment will determine the emergency lighting requirement for the building. Upon the

LIGHTING | 11

implementation of the emergency lighting, there are a number of factors governed by legislation which must be adhered to in order to deliver a compliant scheme.

Failure to familiarise oneself fully with this legislation may result in the scheme being non-compliant. There are however a number of industry standards which are in place to help support the design and implementation process which the designer should be familiar with. As a starting point it is recommended that a copy of the emergency lighting code of practice, BS: EN 5266-1 is referred to. This lists all of the various standards which provide the relevant recommendations and guidelines.

FAILURE TO ADHERE TO BRITISH STANDARDS These standards are not merely in place as ‘box tickers’ or to be used superficially.

Together they form a definitive guide covering all aspects of emergency lighting including self-contained and central battery systems, standby lighting, and defined lux

levels including high risk task areas as well as providing essential information on the placement of necessary signage. In addition to design and scheme standards there are others such as BS: EN 61347 series covering control gears and BS: EN 60598 pts 1 and 2 to cover luminaires. Compliance to these standards goes a long way to reassuring end users that they are using the very best equipment.

NOT COMPLETING REGULAR TESTS OF THE SYSTEM Designing and implementing a compliant emergency lighting scheme shows a high level of diligence however this is only the start. In order to maintain on-going compliance, routine maintenance and testing is critical.

Many companies and businesses choose to implement an automatic testing system, which enables tests to take place regularly, at periods of low risk and in accordance with the relevant standards. An automatic test system can be taken to the next level with the addition of a monitoring system

which utilises a communication protocol such as DALI. N-light is Mackwell’s proprietary test and monitoring system. Developed specifically for self-contained emergency lighting systems, N-lights intuitive touch-screen puts the user in full control. Tests are scheduled and any faults identified in accordance with BS: EN 50172 and BS: EN 62034. Incorporating an on-board log book which can be downloaded, N-light ensures the emergency lighting scheme remains compliant.

TESTING AND MAINTENANCE It is easy to recognise the benefits an automatic test and monitoring system brings but it should not be a wholesale replacement for routine maintenance. The system will identify and diagnose faults but unless it is regularly monitored the faults will remain.

For detailed information on how to implement the correct system and advice on which emergency lighting system is most suitable for your premises, contact Mackwell today on 01922 458 255. www.electricalreview.co.uk

12 | BEG

Sound advice Over the last few years, more and more companies are integrating smart lighting control systems into their business processes. Paul Jones, BEG UK sales director for UK & Ireland explains

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ighting in offices and industrial spaces has a proven, positive effect on wellbeing, productivity and performance.

In fact, effectively lit and pleasant working environments have many benefits such as promoting an attractive company image, encouraging high calibre recruits and, most importantly perhaps letting businesses make substantial savings on energy bills.

The technology behind these systems is advancing rapidly and one of the latest innovations is the integration of sound and temperature KNX occupancy detectors into one self-contained unit for the very first time.

SOUND MONITORING Presence detectors which control the lighting in a room have built-in sound monitoring have been available on the market for some time.

Sound monitoring does not just mean if you clap, a light comes on, it is more about the ability to detect activity within a room where the layout might restrict the operational use of traditional motion

detectors, such as within cubicles in changing rooms or washrooms.

This innovative, problem-solving sensor, means that when normal presence detection is not possible, the sound sensor takes over allowing you to deliver the optimum light levels effectively and efficiently.

RUN-ON TIME SAVES ENERGY Thanks to these new sophisticated developments, these smart lighting systems ensure energy is never wasted.

The run-on time begins as soon as the presence of a person is no longer detected.

If the presence of a person is detected again during the run-on time the run-on time resets itself. If no presence is detected during the runon time the fade time is started as soon as the run-on time expires, and the lights goes out.

TEMPERATURE MONITORING Versatile, user-friendly lighting controls let you deliver the right levels of light exactly where and when they are required, increasing the efficiency and quality of your operations.

For the more sophisticated building management systems you can now acquire KNX sensors with built-in sound monitoring and built-in thermostats, which monitor temperature too.

The integrated temperature sensor is designed to detect three values in a room: the room temperature, the light level on the ceiling and, thirdly, the sensor detects moving sources of heat and automatically switch the light according to the ambient luminosity.

An integrated temperature sensor also means a separate sensor will no longer have to be fitted to the wall, which will save on installation time and expense.

The benefit of having both sound and temperature monitoring incorporated into one KNX sensor means the energy savings can be even greater, while reducing a company’s carbon footprint further. It also provides building managers with one KNX product that is effectively monitoring two different physical quantities.

By Paul Jones, B.E.G. UK Sales Director for UK & Ireland.

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For sponsorship opportunities – please call Sunny or Amanda on +44 (0) 207 933 8970 or email sunnyn@electricalreview.com / amanda@electricalreview.com

24 May 2018

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visit www.electricalreview.co.uk/awards

14 | LIGHTING

Lighting technology constantly evolving LED lighting technology is constantly evolving, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved. Ian Drinkwater, managing drector of trade signage supplier Applelec, which UHFHQWO\ EHFDPH DQ RIĂ€FLDO 8. VXSSOLHU IRU 6ORDQ/(' SURGXFWV H[SORUHV WKH ODWHVW WUHQGV and advancements changing the face of lighting

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ighting manufacturers are constantly seeking to develop solutions that improve the performance and efďŹ ciency of LED ďŹ xtures, extending operational life while offering marketleading brightness and clarity.

Traditionally, LED technology has been integrated to deliver energy-efďŹ ciency and long-life performance. However, the latest generation of LED modules is pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved.

No longer are efďŹ ciencies restricted to traditional ďŹ xtures such as wall lamps and ceiling pendants; LED light is now used to Electrical Review | December 2017

generate brand appeal, in wayďŹ nding and to create stunning architectural displays.

LED ribbon, for instance, has become the weapon of choice for speciďŹ ers looking to create accent or decorative lighting. However, technology has enabled the development of systems which can improve the performance of even their LED predecessors, out-stripping ribbon in terms of both energy usage and luminance.

Compact and durable, the latest modules can be used in signage and lightbox applications to stunning effect. As the luminaires are even brighter than those

previously used in LED ribbon, fewer modules are required to achieve the same levels of brightness, therefore energy usage is reduced. The uniform light produced is perfect for signage and the shallowest of lightbox applications.

Unlike LED tape, which is potentially difďŹ cult to ďŹ t and requires complex calculations to achieve perfect spacing, the latest products feature in-built module spacers, which ensures equidistant light output every time.

These products have been successfully used in the illumination of built-up letters,

16 | LIGHTING

architectural lighting, light boxes and fabricated signage. Despite an increase in illumination, white modules can draw as little as 1.12W each, with colour options consuming even less.

New products such as FlexLogic LED from Applelec create continuous lines of flexible light that can be used indoors or out to spectacular effect. The FlexLogic neon flex range offers two bending directions, with light running laterally along the length of the profile or the light surface itself, enabling it to be shaped around columns.

An IP68 rated seal or clasp can be fitted to ends, ensuring both easy installation and full module protection.

The two textile frame lightboxes are around three metres in height, with one measuring 10 metres in length and the second just under five metres.

In a concept created by design agency Jaywing, corporate design and branding specialists Nebula Creative designed and installed the two lightboxes. The system

LIGHTING UP ARENA’S VIP AREA

chosen to illuminate the boxes comprised a total of 56 SloanLED PosterBOX 3 modules supplied by Applelec, who also provided the flex face light box frame for the installation.

Systems such as the PosterBox 3 are perfect for use in shallow spaces, down to a depth of just 50mm for a single-sided application.

Just two rows of facing modules, fitted to the top and bottom edges, were sufficient

Anyone lucky enough to have enjoyed a preconcert tipple in the VIP bar of the first direct arena in Leeds cannot fail to have noticed the stunning double lightbox installation featuring 240 album covers from artists who have played the venue since its inauguration in 2013. JLS, Robbie Williams, Jess Glynn and Feetwood Mac all feature within the centrepiece.

Electrical Review | December 2017

Just two rows were required

to illuminate the lightboxes, despite their impressive height and width.

The fact that just two rows were required, coupled with the built-in spacing on the PosterBox 3 range, resulted in a significantly reduced installation time.

Equally impressive was the modest energy consumption of the scheme. The entire installation draws just over 750W – approximately 86% less than a similar fluorescent scheme and less than a regular LED ribbon equivalent, which would still draw around 2,344W. The luminance produced is so bright and even that the display can be clearly seen outside the venue, through the windows of the lounge.

Commenting on the scheme, the arena’s director of sales, marketing and PR Tony Watson said: “We’ve installed significant branding throughout the arena and without a doubt the most effective piece is our lightbox by Nebula Creative, utilising the SloanLED system from Applelec. The resulting installation is stunning and has transformed our most important space.”

18 | LIGHTING

Wellbeing, workplace health and productivity Tamlite Lighting explains how to best incorporate the theories and practices of humancentric lighting when designing or commissioning a new lighting system in workplaces.

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t may not have come to everyone’s attention just yet, but an astonishing link between Human-Centric Lighting (HCL), wellbeing and the Nobel Prize has recently been in the limelight.

The news is remarkable; the 2017 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was jointly awarded to Jeffrey C. Hall, Michael Rosbash and Michael W. Young for their work, which dates back to the 1980s and, which led the way to further discoveries of the molecular mechanisms controlling our circadian rhythm.

Electrical Review | December 2017

This very rhythm is at the core of how Human-Centric Lighting, in the ofďŹ ce space and beyond, is designed to work harmoniously with humans.

So, what does the Nobel Prize have to tell us about lighting workplaces correctly, in a more holistic way?

THE PATTERN OF LIFE Life on earth is adapted to the rotation of our planet. For many years we have known that living organisms, including humans,

have an internal, biological clock that helps them anticipate and adapt to the regular lighting rhythm of the day.

That rhythm has low light levels and low colour temperatures in the early morning, high light levels and colour temperatures at mid-day, returning to low levels during the evening, and extremely low levels and a medium colour temperature under moonlight. It’s essential that modern lighting seeks to replicate and protect this natural state. Better productivity, better

20 | LIGHTING

work patterns and happier employees are the obvious benefits.

Our inner clock adapts our physiology to the different phases of the day. The clock regulates critical functions such as behaviour, hormone levels, sleep, body temperature and metabolism. Our wellbeing is affected when there is a temporary mismatch between our external environment and this internal biological clock, for example when we travel across several time zones and experience jet lag.

Shockingly, such mismatches regularly occur when lighting in the workplace is poorly specified too. This is big news; there are indications that chronic misalignment between our lifestyle and the rhythm dictated by our inner timekeeper is associated with increased risk for various diseases, such as heart disease, obesity and cancer.

So poor lighting might not just be affecting productivity, it could be doing something much more sinister to our employees.

LIGHTING AND PROTECTING OUR NATURAL RHYTHMS Since the seminal discoveries by the three scientists, circadian biology has developed into a vast and highly dynamic research field, with implications for our health and wellbeing; the biological clock is involved in many aspects of our complex physiology.

The simplest steps to take when applying this in a workplace scenario include offering a more supportive lighting environment with daylighting, far greater window space and considered colour tone in an office.

Equally, it’s vital to look at the positioning of desks, challenging issues with glare, and to consider, especially in wintertime, whether the amounts of blue within computer screens, tablets and IT equipment are supporting your staff’s natural rhythms as best they can.

As suggested by the scientists however, none of this need be a major issue. What we are seeking to do with circadian and humancentric lighting is to return our lighting to a more natural state; something which is obvious and innate to every one of us.

WHAT TO DO NOW “Light is the most important environmental input, after food and water, in controlling bodily functions” Wurtman 1975. This includes emotions, mood and productivity. It Electrical Review | December 2017

LIGHTING IN EDUCATION Human-Centric Lighting is not only crucial in office or commercial environments. Ensuring that students enjoy the optimal conditions for learning at all ages is fundamental to a holistic approach to building and maintaining school premises.

Designing appropriate spaces, incorporating WELL Building standards and approaches to lighting, and being sensitive to students’ physical, mental and emotional health are key.

As is removing excess clutter that might disrupt overall classroom environments or over-stimulate sensitive learners.

“Lighting plays an important role in evoking emotions. Lighting can be used to make an architectural space more aesthetically pleasing or it can create an atmosphere in that space; both affect people’s emotions. In addition, the user’s well-being can be directly influenced by light. Brightness, colour, direction, contrast and time are parameters used to create lighting conditions that address this.

“Because lighting profoundly affects numerous levels of human functioning such as vision, circadian rhythms, mood and cognition, its implicit effects on learning and classroom achievement cannot be dismissed. Several studies have addressed how the quality and colour of lighting can either impair or enhance students’ visual skills and, thus, academic performance. Visual impairments alone can induce behavioural problems in students, and the level of concentration and motivation in the classroom.”

Michael Mott et al (Illuminating the effects of dynamic lighting on student learning).

So what are the top three aspects to consider for school lighting? will always be clear if lighting isn’t as it should be. Glaring, harshly used fluorescent tubes will be obvious and can be easily replaced with LEDs, set to smart usage systems which will save you both energy and save staff the hassles of switching off systems.

Equally, giving staff a choice on where they sit, and offering them control over their lighting levels at different times of day, as they would have in their own homes will have a positive effect on their workspace and motivation levels.

Tamlite is a passionate advocate of the advantages Human-Centric Lighting brings, and all products are designed to maximise its benefits in the workplace. However, often the most important step is recognising there may be an issue, and then moving proactively to change the situation rather

than burying the issues under the carpet.

Day to day business is challenging; many drivers compete for our attention. We can therefore offer advice on lighting financing, actual systems, or overview your estate and premises to get a sense of what’s best and where the quick wins on lighting can be.

Tamlite believes that when something as vital as the Nobel Prize shines a light on Human-Centric Lighting, it’s crucial we all sit up and take notice.

NOT ALL LEDS ARE THE SAME While ensuring classrooms enjoy natural light is preferable, not all buildings are designed to use it to optimum effect; fortunately modern LED lighting can simulate daylight.

However while LED lighting is highly efficient, when considering refurbishment incorporating new LEDs, designers need to ensure that they specify luminaires whose colour and intensity of light can be adjusted over the course of the day to suit the students’ changing needs. This means that in the morning, pupils can be exposed to stimulating blue-rich lighting, designed to replicate daylight, progressing to warmer lighting when peace and quiet is needed.

IMPROVED STAFF WELLBEING Staff, whether teachers or support staff, also benefit from intelligent lighting systems.

Their wellbeing is improved when their workspace is optimised, leading to less absenteeism and improved performance. The installation of new, intuitive controllers gives them better control over their immediate environment, while supporting them in their work. And exchanging a problem-prone older system for a modern, more reliable technology brings peace of mind, while reducing time spent on maintenance.

ENERGY & COST SAVINGS Switching to LEDs also eases the financial burden. In a school or university setting, lighting can equate to 25% of all energy consumption. LEDs use around half the energy of a fluorescent lamp, and as much as 90% less than an incandescent light, and they last up to 20 times longer than incandescent bulbs. In addition modern controls systems, and sensors which react to occupancy levels by switching off lighting in unused areas, boost cost savings.

22 | ABB

The power of innovation For many years, grid operators relied only on tried and tested technologies – but a drive towards innovation in recent years is reaping rewards. Peter Jones, technology strategy manager for ABB Power Grids explains how new technologies and new applications for existing technologies can help operators make the most of their assets and do more with less

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he UK is at the forefront of innovation in power grids.

The World Energy Council has awarded us a rating of AAA for balancing the three priorities of energy security, affordability and environmental sustainability that form the energy trilemma.

Of these, affordability is most often in the

Electrical Review | December 2017

spotlight, with the government currently considering a bill to cap energy prices.

Pressure is also being applied indirectly, for example from passengers reacting to the announcement in August about rail fare rises. The pressure means that it’s worth thinking about ways to achieve targets with less budget and without impacting quality.

INNOVATION FUNDING Ofgem’s Network Innovation Competition (NIC) funding mechanism is a great demonstration of how the government is incentivising the industry. Two examples of projects funded through the NIC scheme were the PowerFul-CB and Phoenix projects. Under PowerFul-CB, ABB will

ABB | 23

introduce power electronic circuit breaking technology to help UK Power Networks address fault currents in London as the distributed generation and combined heat and power schemes are introduced.

During the Phoenix project, ABB will deliver a world-first hybrid synchronous converter (H-SC) for ScottishPower. The H-SC integrates two existing technologies: a power electronic static compensator (STATCOM); and a conventional synchronous converter. The H-SC will be deployed to provide dynamic voltage control as the UK’s coal power stations go offline.

Momentum inside the large rotating generators has inertia that keeps the turbines spinning for a long time even when unpowered. As coal plants are decommissioned, this is coming offline and renewable energy has little or no inertia to keep grid voltage and frequency stable.

However, many operators adopt innovative approaches outside the scope of Ofgem’s funding programme.

NETWORK RAIL SFC SAVING 60 % OF GRID CONNECTION COST For example, Network Rail has adopted a Static Frequency Converter (SFC) to upgrade the power supply on the East Coast Main Line in preparation for new bi-mode dieselelectric trains that will begin service in 2018.

To run on electricity through Doncaster, the new trains will draw around three times more power than is available on Network Rail’s existing supply. The conventional solution is to construct a new high-voltage grid connection – but this is costly and has a long lead time.

Instead, Network Rail opted for an SFC to adapt the three-phase feed from Northern Powergrid’s distribution network and convert it to a single-phase 25 kV trackside supply.

The SFC has an estimated total cost saving of 60 percent compared with building a new grid connection. The technology is already well established in shore-to-ship power connections and also by Queensland Rail in Australia.

STEP-BY-STEP INNOVATION Other innovations can piggy-back on existing services and ABB’s highvoltage transformer service team regularly adds value this way. In 2015 it

took the opportunity to integrate the UK’s first real-time online monitoring through Transformer Intelligence while remanufacturing a 135 MVA generator transformer for Lynemouth Power Station.

Another example was a de-tanking service of a transformer for cement manufacturer Cemex. De-tanking is usually undertaken at ABB’s specialist facility in Norway but in this case, detanking in the UK enabled close inspection of the windings to give confidence that the transformer could be repaired within a few months – saving the 12-month lead time and cost of a new unit.

In 2014, Northern Powergrid adopted PASS M00 units at its Cramlington substation to replace existing time-served 66 kV bus section circuit breakers.

Freedom Group ordered the UK’s first PASS M0H unit, a version of the switchgear that takes the form of an H-configured switchgear bay. Freedom Group specified the PASSM0H for a 10 MW data centre, where it delivers a 2N level of security through connecting to two separate incoming 132 kV transmission feeds.

Today, PASS units are used regularly across the UK’s distribution networks – the most recent project has seen a 132 kV PASS unit being installed by G2 Energy at

PASSING INTO NORMAL PRACTICE

Glassenbury in Kent, where it controls the connection to the 132 kV network at a site that combines solar photovoltaic panels and a 40 MW energy storage system.

Projects to deliver new-to-the-UK products or services are often the subject of much focus. However, after the initial fanfare, they can become common. Adoption of PASS (plug and switch system) illustrates this. The compact hybrid switchgear combines all functions into a single switchgear module, therefore enabling a compact footprint. These include circuit breaker, combined disconnecting and earthing switches, current transformers and fast-acting earth switch.

It was first used in the UK by Scottish & Southern Energy (SSE) at its Reading substation in 2008. When delivering a new GIS (gas-insulated switchgear) substation

It’s worth thinking about new ways to achieve targets with less budget and without impacting quality on the densely populated site, adopting two PASS M0 units saved enough space to dismantle old switchgear bays and make way for a new substation building without losing any circuits during construction.

Many operators have since adopted other types of PASS unit since then, particularly when looking to achieve a cost-effective and compact substation – which the switchgear achieves by combining airinsulated and gas-insulated elements in a single unit.

FIRST-OF-A-KIND CONTROL ON THE GREAT WESTERN Another innovation approach that we believe will be the first of many is the protection and control scheme that ABB is delivering for Network Rail for the Great Western Electrification Programme.

The sophisticated substations communications and control concept has allowed Network Rail to reduce the number of circuit breakers required and replace them with less costly load break switches.

Circuit breakers can tolerate and break a high fault current, whereas load break switches cannot. Recognising this, Network Rail’s engineers devised a tailored approach to IEC 61850 smart grid communication called the Rationalised Autotransformer Scheme (RATS) scheme. This uses intelligent electronic devices (IEDs) to ensure that circuit breakers will open in the case of a fault, preventing the load break switches from ever experiencing a fault current.

The key to delivering RATS has been ABB’s IEC 61850 communication equipment and an extensive programme of simulation and bench testing at ABB’s system verification facility in Stone, Staffordshire. This has enabled ABB to deliver its protection and control equipment inside self-contained auxiliary equipment enclosures that arrive on site ready to plug and play. Once in operation, faults can be detected, isolated and supply resumed within six seconds without any manual intervention by a human operator. www.electricalreview.co.uk

24 | CASE STUDY

Luceco LED lighting refurbishment at The University of Chester Richard Horton from Luceco looks at how The University of Chester successfully reduced their lighting energy consumption and carbon footprint by over 66% as a result of a LED lighting refurbishment, and achieving a payback of within 5 years.

Luceco has provided a cost effective, energy saving LED lighting solution for three major buildings at the Parkgate Road Campus at the University of Chester. The University has six campuses, the 32-acre Parkgate Road Campus features a mix of buildings dating back to 1839. Many of the University’s central services and facilities are located here as well as sports facilities, science and language laboratories.

The University of Chester was founded by pioneers including William Gladstone and the Earl of Derby. It is one of the oldest English higher education establishments, pre-dating all but Oxford, Cambridge, London and Durham.

The lighting design brief was to reduce the energy consumption of three major

Electrical Review | December 2017

buildings, the Best Building, Westminster Building, and Chritchley Building with a payback of within five years. The lighting refurbishment programme has been funded by the Salix scheme. Established in 2004, Salix Finance Ltd delivers 100% interest-free capital to the public sector to improve their energy efficiency and reduce their carbon emissions with loans for energy efficiency projects.

An impressive selection of fittings has been employed including over 750 LuxPanel luminaires installed into many areas including seminar rooms and lecture theatres, offices, and laboratories. Quick and easy to install with no maintenance requirements and no visible frame when installed in the ceiling grid, high efficiency

LuxPanels have the additional benefit of 13% extra visible light when compared with other LED panel luminaires. Supplied with remote ‘plug and play’ drivers, available in standard fixed output, dimmable and emergency options, high efficiency LuxPanels boasts a market leading efficacy of 152 Lm/cW. Movement around the university requires a good uniformity of light and careful luminaire choice is important when lighting confined spaces such as corridors. The use of LED flat panels prevent intrusion from the luminaire into what is often a small space enduring large amounts of traffic. Over 200 Circular LuxPanels were installed, mainly in circulation areas and rest room facilities.

CASE STUDY | 25

Featuring slim framed panels, Circular LuxPanels offer excellent luminous uniformity and can be supplied as standard, with emergency packs or with dimmable remote drivers in 240, 180, 150 and 120mm sizes, further demonstrating the diversity of the LuxPanel range.

Other luminaires installed in transit areas included the Atlas Bulkhead, providing an alternative to traditional 28 and 38 watt 2D compact fluorescent fittings.

Selected Atlas luminaires installed were fitted with an integral microwave sensor to further reduce energy consumption.

With the corridor function selected, the sensor adjusts the light level to 10% of the normal level when the space is unoccupied. Platinum LED Downlights were also installed in breakout areas and landings offering running cost savings of up to 80%. Designed to retrofit ceiling cut outs of common compact fluorescent downlights, the Platinum features easy fit positive locating swing out tabs and interchangeable bezel options and is ideal for use with sensors and lighting controls.

Further circulation areas, corridors and offices were lit with the Academy luminaire. Academy is as an ideal

replacement for linear fluorescent fittings in classrooms and circulation areas and boasts an impressive 50,000 hours of maintenance free operation along with the LuxPanel, Platinum and Atlas fittings.

As with the Atlas, some of the Academy luminaires were also fitted with an integral microwave sensor to adjust the light level to 10% of the normal level when the corridors were not being used, to further improve energy efficiency. Titan High Bays, complete with prismatic diffusers, were installed in atrium areas also offering high efficacy and instant light unlike traditional HID fittings.

Large spaces within education environments often serve many functions such as assembly areas, dining halls and interior sports facilities. LED lighting technology delivers significant cost savings compared to traditional light sources and with no maintenance required throughout the lifetime of the luminaires, cost and inconvenience of lamp replacement, often requiring expensive equipment to gain access, can avoided.

Replacement lighting for the Sports Hall required compliance to Sport England guidelines and LuxBay luminaires from

Luceco were selected. LED LuxBay is environmentally friendly with no warm up time to produce 100% light output. Variants include 100, 150 and 200 watts, all with either a wide or narrow clear lens, offering over 50,000 hours of operational life.

Options include integrated presence and daylight sensors for use with fixed output or DALI dimmable control as well as integral emergency variants.

The Best Building, Westminster Building, and Chritchley Building now demonstrates a substantial reduction in energy consumption and carbon footprint by over 66% as a result of the LED lighting refurbishment programme. Moreover, maintenance on lighting provision has been substantially reduced due to re-lamping of luminaries being completely eliminated.

Due to the success of these first three buildings, further refurbishments have followed including buildings at the Riverside Campus housing the Faculty of Health and Social Care. Other sites include the Warrington Campus, originally a camp for Canadian officers in WW2, now the home of the North-West Media Centre and the training ground for the rugby league team The Warrington Wolves.

www.electricalreview.co.uk

26 | CABLE MANAGEMENT

Cutting installation time: the intelligent approach to cabling Mark Redfern, of Wieland Electric, argues cabling methodology can have a critical role in ensuring building performance, as well as impacting installation schedules. So how can discussion of ‘smart buildings’ move beyond a focus on automation, towards a broader understanding of ‘smart’ construction?

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There are certain types of projects where even greater benefits can be realised

Electrical Review | December 2017

here is a strong trend towards making every aspect of construction ‘smarter’ – from design and installation, through to ongoing management and maintenance of the building. While technology and automation has tended to dominate discussion, it is important not to lose sight of the ‘basics’ and how the design and application of the fundamental components of a building can also be ‘smarter’. The critical role cabling plays in terms of its impact on construction schedules, as well the building’s performance, is not always fully appreciated, yet it has the potential to have a significant impact.

Careful consideration of the cabling methodology will deliver significant benefits – in the short-term (during installation) and throughout the life-time of a building.

In the case of modular wiring systems, cable assemblies and enclosures are manufactured off-site, so that on-site installation merely involves ‘plugging in’ the various components to complete the power, lighting or data installation. A structured wiring system with ‘plug and play’ connectivity, supplied complete to site for easy connection, can typically deliver time savings in installation of 70%. Furthermore, taking into account the slightly higher capital costs of structured wiring compared to traditional wiring, an average 30% saving on final installed cost can be achieved.

There are certain types of projects where even greater benefits can be realised, such as high bay lighting in buildings with high roof spaces, as any work on the lighting will require specialist access equipment. Not only is installation time reduced by using structured cabling systems, but additional savings can also be achieved by minimising disruption of the operations at ground level.

Structured wiring systems are ideal for installation of lighting circuits and other power requirements, located above ceilings, because they are easy and quick to install. A key feature that facilitates this ease of installation is the use of round connector systems – a design employed by Wieland’s modular cabling solutions. This type of connector system avoids the need to solder the connection cable, making makes it possible to assemble modules without any specialist knowledge. It also reduces the installation workload by replacing the conventional screw connection with a pluggable solution.

This efficiency was evident when Wieland Electric recently supplied its Metalynx2 solution for the newly redeveloped Belmont House in the centre of Uxbridge, West London. The

28 | CABLE MANAGEMENT

structured wiring system was specified by mechanical and electrical contractors Phoenix ME to supply lighting and power to the office spaces and lighting in the landlord’s core areas – from the ground floor to the fourth floor.

Phoenix installed Wieland home runs in the tenant’s office space and master distribution boxes in the ceiling void, which serve the LCMs (lighting control modules) and fan coil units (FCUs) using Wieland’s lighting and power extender cables fixed to the soffits. The FCUs were supplied with Wieland’s fused spur ‘T’s to connect the power extenders and the LCMs with lighting tees that connect with the lighting extenders. For landlord areas, each light fitting was supplied with a Wieland lighting tee already connected so that leads can be plugged in immediately, as light fittings are installed, dramatically reducing second and final fix durations in the main core areas.

The project exceeded regulatory requirements in the provision of a sustainable and innovative solution, and it is anticipated that the CAT A office redevelopment will result in the building achieving a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating.

Craig Batten, project manager at Phoenix, commented: “Metalynx2 and the relevant Wieland products we used made this installation very straightforward. We had deadlines to meet, as with all our projects, and by using a high quality, well trusted brand – delivered on time and ready to install – was extremely important to us. The added advantage was that the products were extremely easy to install, which ensured that the work was carried out within our dedicated timescale.”

In fact, modular wiring systems can help contractors meet tight deadlines and this was demonstrated during a refurbishment project at 30 Broadwick Street. Featuring bold architecture in keeping with its creative location, the new 90,000 sq. ft. building is situated in the heart of Soho, in London’s West End. As Robert Biddle, project manager at BAM Construction, commented: “We required a system that could be delivered to meet our tight deadlines and Wieland’s Metalynx2 system fitted our brief perfectly. Having a system arrive on site pre-tested and pre-wired allowed us to maximise the productivity on site.”

Similarly, use of a structured wiring system in a major refurbishment at One Puddle Dock helped M&E contractor Gratte Brothers meet the project’s extremely tight deadlines.

In support of this, the Metalynx2 system was boxed per circuit, per distribution board. This enabled electricians to select the required boxes, knowing they contained all the cables and associated parts required for each part of the job.

Additional time-savings can be achieved by making use of other innovative developments, such as a flat cable connection system that combines a flexible busbar and cable into one product. These use a safe tap-off adapter with a piercing contact that eliminates cutting and stripping of cable, thereby reducing installation time considerably.

There are also key advantages to integrating different types of cabling when possible to maximise efficiency benefits. An example of this would be the use of structured wiring to not only connect the supply of light fittings, fan coil units, small power and cleaner sockets; but also integrating it with a DALIbased programmable control system.

Electrical Review | December 2017

FUTURE-PROOFING INSTALLATION While the benefits achieved during the initial installation of services are clear, there are also ongoing benefits to using structured cabling systems – it is very unlikely that any commercial industrial building will remain unchanged through its life. Typically, there will be changes in building layout and usage every few years and the services will often need to be reconfigured to accommodate these changes.

With traditional wiring, any such re-configuration would be time-consuming, expensive and disruptive to the activities in the building. In contrast, structured wiring brings an inherent flexibility that makes it very easy to reconfigure lighting or other small power to accommodate changes in building usage or layout.

Services can be quickly adapted to accommodate changes to the building and the way it is used, and this ability for ‘continuous commissioning’ is increasingly being demanded by more savvy building owners and operators. Moreover, the components of a structured wiring system can be re-used, whereas with conventional wiring there is considerable waste during a re-wiring project. Consequently, structured wiring helps to reduce waste, meets recycling targets and supports the sustainability objectives of designing intelligent buildings.

KEEPING PACE WITH CHANGE While structured wiring has an important role to play in providing a smarter approach than traditional cabling systems it is also important to be aware of any changing requirements that result from the introduction of new technologies.

A case in point is LED lighting, which is now the lighting technology of choice for the majority of new lighting installations and lighting upgrades. As well as the energy saving and longer life benefits of LED lighting, the smaller light sources also support the use of more discreet lighting systems with more compact luminaires.

However, if they are used in conjunction with traditional bulky cabling these aesthetic benefits may not be realised. Structured wiring systems offer an alternative by making use of the latest generation of ‘micro-connectors’. These will fit into very small spaces and are therefore easy to hide.

Modular wiring systems are becoming standard practice for BUS, power and lighting distribution in modern offices, retail, healthcare, educational and leisure environments and many experts forecast that traditional conduit and cabling methods will be replaced by modular wiring systems on projects throughout the UK. Intelligent buildings are already a reality and smart construction processes will very quickly become the norm. By ensuring that a smart approach is applied at every level, structured cabling can have a key role to play in both the construction and the ongoing management of smarter buildings. In the next five years, demand for flexible efficient modular cabling solutions will continue to grow, but there are also some exciting market trends that are coming to the fore – including DC power in buildings, power over Ethernet and further miniaturisation. A move towards increased standardisation on projects, in the future, will also help to deliver further efficiencies.

30 | EURODOBLE

Consultants, academics and suppliers join forces The 23rd EuroDoble Asset and Maintenance Management Conference was held in Lisbon, Portugal at the end of October. The conference brought together 100 utility personnel, consultants, academics, and suppliers from across Europe and beyond

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he three-day event was planned in collaboration with local power company Energias de Portugal (EDP). João Torres, CEO of EDP Distribuição, opened the conference with an impressive keynote address about the integration of renewables within the Portuguese power system, the drive to more sustainable grids and the challenges of delivering these aims within the traditional industry business model.

With a strong focus on asset management, the conference covered a broad range of topics including learning from forensics, diagnostics, data management, asset health indices, fleet management, transformer oil issues and cables. The programme also addressed newer topics such as cyber security and energy storage.

“This is my first EuroDoble conference and I was really impressed by the presentations and level of the discussion,” said Simon Sutton, Doble’s technical solutions director for EMEA. “It’s good to see people talk about the practical aspects of managing an ageing grid, planning for the future at a time of rapid change in the industry and delivering benefits from new diagnostics and monitoring”.

A one-day protection, automation and control tutorial, followed by a further day dedicated to the asset management of these assets ran in parallel with the main equipment sessions.

Electrical Review | December 2017

The final morning of the conference was a closed session for the attending utilities only and focussed on plant failures. The vendor-free environment gives the opportunity for utilities to openly share information on issues and failures from the past 12 months. This year saw around 10 presentations and some lively debate in the room.

“The visit to EDP’s laboratory and testing facility (Labelec) on the final afternoon was a great way to conclude the conference,” commented Alan Wilson, conference organiser from Doble. “I was particularly impressed by the smart meter lab and smart grid demonstrator along with its battery, which underpin EDP’s ambitious grid modernisation aims.”

Planning for the future, Pedro Nunes from EDP Labelec (Portugal) and Andrew Fieldsend-Roxborough from National Grid (UK) were elected as the chair and vice-chair of the EuroDoble Committee.

The planning for EuroDoble 2018 in Manchester next October 22-24 has already begun.The Doble team is looking forward to working with Pedro and Andrew to deliver another great event.

Alan Wilson added, “Without the active support of our utility chair and vice-chair, these events wouldn’t be the tremendous success that I see here. I’d particularly like to thank Brendan Diggin from ESBI in Ireland for his efforts as chair over the past two years.”

32 | LIGHTNING PROTECTION

When lightning strikes Would a customer get on an aeroplane with an untrained pilot in the cockpit or visit a doctor WKDW GLG QRW KDYH WKH QHFHVVDU\ TXDOLÀFDWLRQV" 2I FRXUVH QRW <HW FOLHQWV LQ WKH FRQVWUXFWLRQ LQGXVWU\ XVH XQWUDLQHG DQG XQGHU TXDOLÀHG SHUVRQQHO WR FDUU\ RXW OLJKWQLQJ SURWHFWLRQ ZRUN

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he installation, testing and inspection of lightning protection systems is a highly specialised trade and should only be undertaken by competent operatives with the required qualifications and skills such as those employed by members of the Association of Technical Lightning & Access Specialists (ATLAS). A direct lightning strike can cause severe damage to a building and its occupants, and a compliant lightning protection system which has been designed, tested and installed by an accredited company will be crucial to minimising the damage that can occur. By using an ATLAS member with a fully trained and qualified workforce, clients can have the confidence that it will: • Deliver a full design, installation and maintenance package • Undertake risk assessments in accordance with the relevant British Standard, BS EN 62305, to identify the exact level of protection required • Carry out soil resistivity testing and extrapolate the information to provide possible solutions in areas of poor ground quality • Ensure conductors are routed, with joints and right angles kept to a minimum • Identify surge protection requirements and solutions • Provide ongoing technical advice and support.

An alarming trend is emerging of facilities management companies providing in-house training to their own employees and then using them to test the lightning protection systems on the buildings that they maintain including office blocks, hospitals, schools and public buildings. This is a high risk strategy as the employees will only have received limited training on the use of an earth tester which does not ensure their competence to undertake this specialist work.

An ATLAS member was recently commissioned to carry out a lightning protection inspection on a Government agency property after the previous facilities management company had been undertaking its own in-house testing for a number of years.

The ATLAS member discovered numerous high earth readings, earth positions that were missing, and items of equipment that were not bonded into the system - none of which had been identified during previous inspections and which would have seriously affected the performance of the system in the event of a lightning strike.

ATLAS president Colin Clinkard says: “Specialist Contractors can verify whether a system has been designed and installed in line with BS EN 62305, or the previous standard BS6651, and prepare an accurate report highlighting any non-compliance issues. It is therefore paramount that only qualified Specialist Contractors undertake the installation, testing and Electrical Review | December 2017

inspection of lightning protection systems, as the consequences of inadequate lightning protection can be devastating.”

ATLAS members lead the way in health and safety standards, technical innovation, and training and skills and should be the only choice when it comes to lightning protection work.

34 | BUILDING SERVICES

Smart and successful Discussion, debate and innovation make Smart Buildings 2017 a show to remember. Visitors poured through the doors of Birmingham’s NEC to ensure the go-to event for the smart buildings industry lived up to its billing

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mart Buildings 2017, sponsored by National KNX, took place on 10-12 October as part of UK Construction Week, which boasted an 11% increase in visitor numbers compared to last year’s show. UK Construction Week covered nine trade shows dedicated to the built environment all under one roof and attracted a total of 33,697 of the construction industry’s experts over the course of its three days.

The excitement that surrounds smart technology and how it can revolutionise buildings meant there was plenty for visitors to enjoy, with several exhibitors showcasing brand new products, engaging talks in the various seminar theatres, as well as an inaugural awards event to celebrate the huge impact smart technology has already had.

Leading names on the show floor included Bosch, whose ‘Smart Living’ display proved a popular attraction, as well as Proactive AV and Theben, both of which had products featured in the UK Construction Week Innovation Trail. VERDE LED, making its UK Construction Week debut, showcased its new state-of-the-art mobile showroom, the VERDEBUS, displaying the company’s high performance LED luminaires, Asset Mapping demonstrated its shared digital workspace platform, and Fibar Group promoted its wireless smart home system, Fibaro.

John Keohane, CEO of VERDE LED, commented: “VERDE LED were delighted to be part of the Smart Buildings Show, which gave us access to high quality leads. We managed to meet key decision makers in large multinational and government organisations who are often extremely hard to get in contact with. The show was extremely well run and we were delighted with the decision to take part for the first time this year showcasing our energy saving LED lighting solutions.”

Another company that enjoyed show success was Atamate, which provides smart building software for commercial and domestic buildings. Marketing Director Helen Peach said: “UK Construction Week provided us with some great leads, and the networking we did with other exhibitors as well as attendees will help to move the business forward. There was a high quality of attendees keen to engage with us and hear from us about our product and services. We would definitely consider exhibiting next year.”

The Smart Buildings Hub hosted a number of absorbing seminar talks and discussions. Highlights included Graham Brown of Envelope Architects who took a look ahead to the smart cities Electrical Review | December 2017

of 2020, and a six-strong panel focused its attention on mental health in the work place and how smart technology is helping to ensure that staff wellbeing is being looked after.

Nokia’s Frank Mullany explained why 5G wireless is set to be a game changer for the digital infrastructure of the future home, and Jas Clare of Helvar examined some lighting control systems in smart building projects.

Of course, a show like this would not be complete without some industry awards and it was Voltimum that provided them with the first ever Smart Solutions Awards, sponsored by the Electrical Contractors’ Association. BBC TV presenter Steph McGovern handed out prizes to installers, manufacturers and wholesalers that have made their mark in the smart technology industry in the past year. Winners included Smartcomm, which took home the ‘Best Project’ award for its work at Riverwalk House on the banks of the River Thames, ABB, which won the ‘Best Manufacturer’ category, and QMotion, whose impressive QiS Roller Shades took the honours for ‘Best Product’.

Daniel Tovey, editor at Voltimum UK, said: “With a focus on innovation and efficiency in the built environment, UK Construction Week was the ideal platform for us to host our first ever Smart Solutions Awards. We are delighted with the efforts of the organisers to help the event run smoothly and to line up Steph McGovern as our host for the evening. We have had some fantastic feedback from attendees and are looking forward to next year’s ceremony!”

Iain Gordon, president of KNX UK, said: “Smart Buildings 2017 provided the perfect platform to promote the KNX standard and meet with new and existing partners. Footfall was consistent across the three days and the Smart Buildings Hub offered valuable insight into the opportunities and challenges associated with the growing smart buildings industry.

“As the headline sponsor of the show, we had a lot of interest in both our stand and seminar sessions, fielding visitor enquiries from across the industry and offering advice on using KNX to enhance building control.”

With over 40% of this year’s exhibitors already rebooked, Smart Buildings 2018 will return to Birmingham NEC as part of UK Construction Week next year and will also include a brand new section dedicated to lighting.

UK Construction Week 2018 will take place on 9-11 October 2018.

For further information visit: www.ukconstructionweek.com/ smart-buildings.

PRODUCTS | 35

POWER FROM THE PHASE HDPQ SP models are contained in an IP65 (weather/hardened) enclosure.

Power from the phase has now been added to the Dranetz Technologies IP65 rated Dranetz HDPQ SP power monitoring instruments. The Dranetz HDPQ Visa SP, Guide SP, Xplorer SP, and Xplorer 400 SP instruments are intended for use in harsh, outdoor and remote environments, or for applications where a LCD display is undesirable.

“Having the ability to power the Dranetz HDPQ SP instruments from the circuit being measured is a great convenience to users, and it also enhances their safety, said Ross Ignall, Dranetz director of product management.

“With the new, built in, 600V AC/DC power supply, users no longer have to locate a separate 120/230V power source for the instrument; they now have the choice to either power the instrument from the circuit being measured or from a separate power source.”

Dranetz • +1 732 287 3680 www.dranetz.com

‘KNOWLEDGE PLATFORM’ AIMED AT PROFESSIONALS IN THE ELECTRICAL UTILITIES Fluke continues to be a supplier of quality test and measurement equipment to electrical utility companies. To support its customers working in this area, Fluke has created a special ‘knowledge platform’– a web microsite called the ‘Fluke solutions center for the Electrical Power Industry’. The site can be located at www.fluke.co.uk/utilities.

The landing page offers eleven areas of interest for professionals working in diverse fields within electrical power generation, transmission and distribution.

Fluke • 020 7942 0700 www.fluke.co.uk

EXPANDED WI-FI DOOR STATION RANGE Listening to its customers and responding to demands in the market is what keeps ESP at the forefront of the security products industry.

The company’s latest launch sees an addition to its hugely successful Wi-Fi Door Station product with a new version in a matt black finish to join the original graphite grey version.

Aimed at both the domestic and light commercial markets, the Wi-Fi Door Station allows you to view and talk to visitors at your home whether you are on the premises or on the other side of the world. From a smart phone or tablet and using the free ESP app, property owners can easily see who is at the door or gate, engage in two-way communication and allow remote access if desired.

ESP • 01527 515 150 www.espuk.com

INTEGRATED LED DOWNLIGHT Proving highly successful since launch earlier this year is Scolmore’s Inceptor Omni firerated downlight, which combines existing technology with cutting edge features and a highly competitive price.

With flexibility and ease of installation as vital attributes, Inceptor Omni’s key features are an adjustable colour temperature switch allowing the selection of colour temperatures to suit the installation; interchangeable fixed and adjustable bezels; and an insulation support clip for use when insulation is present. It is this combination of features that Scolmore believes positions Inceptor Omni as unique in the marketplace.

Scolmore • 01827 63454 www.scolmore.com

RADIANT HEATING PANEL RANGE New selection of heating panels available from leading infrared heating manufacturer Everyone can benefit from energy efficient and cost effective radiant heating, due to the new range of premium quality radiant heating panels available from Flexel International.

The selection includes universal radiant heating panels, suitable for both wall and ceiling mounting, glass panels, some of which can include a high quality digital print, and specialist panels, including pet cassettes and pew heaters.

All Flexel radiant heating panels are manufactured in Europe. All radiant heating panels come with a 5 year guarantee.

Flexel • 01592 760 928 www.flexel.co.uk/products-radiant-panels

WIELAND MAKES A CONNECTION TO LINKEDIN Wieland Electric has supplied a wide range of its popular gst electrical connectors for the new €85 million LinkedIn international headquarters development in Wilton Place, Dublin.

The electrical system for the project was designed and locally supplied by Core Electrical, Wieland’s exclusive distributor across Ireland, utilising Wieland connectors to provide a fast, hassle-free installation that would reduce installation costs and futureproof the building.

Wieland Electric • 01483 531 213 www.wieland.co.uk

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