Wire & Cable India Emagazine Jul-Aug Issue 2024

Jul-Aug, 2024

Vol. 13 No. 05

1000/-

Assomac Ad with CWF Stand

CONTENT Jul-Aug, 2024 | Wire & Cable India

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RR Kabel A Legacy Built on Commitment

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The Backbone of

Modern

Communications Infrastructure 92 Impact of Global Regulatory Changes on the Cable Industry

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The Future of Optical Fibre Communication Network

STL: Catering the Pressing Needs of Today and Tomorrow

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HFCL: Integrating Technology with Innovation for...

Polycab India: Making India Digital with HighSpeed...

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Finolex Cables: Connecting India with Comprehensive, HighQuality...

West Coast Optilinks: Connecting the Future through Digital Infrastructure

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Orient Cables: Energizing Digital India with High-Speed...

Systematic Group: Fulfilling India’s Fast Data Transmission Needs with...

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Rosendahl Nextrom: Where Innovation Never Stops

Indore Composite: Innovative Cable Protection Solutions for...

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Vedanta Aluminium: Building a Sustainable Tomorrow with Aluminium

Sterlite Power Transmission: Driving Growth with Humanity

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NEWS India Will Need INR 3 Trillion Annual Investments to Achieve 440GW

Mikrotek: Driving Innovation in Precision Die Solutions for the Global Wire Industry

Akshit Diviaj Gupta: Taking the Legacy Forward

100 National Committee for Transmission Proposes Transmission Projects Worth INR 22,540 Crore

Alphagary, Shakun Polymers Introduce SemiConductive Compounds in US Market

Decarbonisation of Steel: India Comes Up With Investment Plan of INR 23.52 Lakh Crore

Motherson to Launch Share Sale Up To USD 715 Million

Brand Profile

A Legacy Built on Commitment Founded by Mr. Rameshwarlal Kabra as a small trading business of wires and cables, RR Kabel’s journey began 25 years ago. Today, it is one of India’s largest conglomerates in the electrical sector, spreading across multiple business verticals including wires and cables, switches, fans, lighting, switchgear, and appliances, with applications in residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure purposes. Its success can be attributed to its relentless endeavor to cater to top-quality products using futuristic advances in design and engineering. In an interview with Wire & Cable India, Mr. Shreegopal Kabra, Managing Director & Group President, RR Global maintains that its focus is to continue maintaining brand reputation, and there is no compromise. RR means respectable relations and reliable resources for customers, the MD emphasizes.

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Brand Profile

Mr. Shreegopal Kabra, Managing Director & Group President, RR Global 1986: Established a winding wires manufacturing unit 1999: Launched RR Kabel 2011: Set up the first overseas factory in Bangladesh 2017 : Started bus duct factory in Dubai 2020: Launched HT Cable & acquired Arraystorm 2022: Acquired Luminous Home Electrical Business

we have built over the decades make us the most preferred choice for customers not only in India but across the globe.

Wire & Cable India: What inspired you to launch RR Kabel?

Please elaborate the story behind RR Kabel.

Shreegopal Kabra: The year 1986 was the start of an exciting journey pioneering momentum, technical expertise, innovations, and landmark achievements. We established a winding wires manufacturing unit in Vadodara. Later in 1991, Ram Ratna International was launched for exports and within a year it became a government-recognized export.

The success led to expansion by establishing in 1994 another factory of winding wire by the name of Ram Ratna Wires Limited at Dadra Nagar, Havelli (U.T). Then finally, in 1999, RR Kabel was launched, and thus we set up the most advanced facility of wire and cables manufacturing unit in Gujarat’s Silvassa. After two years, we became the first in India to introduce the concept of electro-mechanical multi-level car parking systems by launching RR Parkon.

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This was followed by our persistent campaign to build the brand. We went to village after village in our tempos, and in our cars promoting the products. So, usually it was consistent marketing for brand creation, and then into retail. Then the real estate sector.

Over the years, we have collaborated with CNBC for CNBC Awaaz Real Estate Awards. This is our journey, and this was how we built RR Kabel.

WCI: What are the core elements that define RR Kabel?

SK: We believe in bringing a meaningful change to the lives we touch. Our products and services, with superior technology and performance, are the commitments we continue to deliver. This is made possible since innovation is at the very core of our DNA. We continue to endeavour to create products of the highest quality using the latest in innovative technology. So our brand ethos of quality that we consistently maintain, innovation that we have embedded into our operations and trust that

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WCI: Please help us understand the wide product range you cater to that has helped you position as a leading name in the industry.

SK: We are India’s largest exporter of wires and cables, and spread across multiple business verticals including fans, lighting, switches, switchgears and appliances. Our wide range of wires and cables includes for various residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure purposes and FMEG products. Our mission is to create high quality products by using the latest advances in wire design and engineering. Our wires and cables have international product certifications and are compliant with the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, and Authorization of Chemical Substances) and RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) directives. We continue to conduct extensive research and development to ensure our products adhere to global guidelines and standards. So, this unwavering commitment as well as endeavour have helped us to position ourselves as an important player in the market.

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Brand Profile

WCI: What marketing strategies have you adopted to expand the brand’s market footprint as well as to create more value?

SK: We have always focused on quality, constant innovations and more R&D. One fine example is our Firex LS0HEBXL, a revolutionary innovation in-house wire solutions. Engineered with cutting-edge technology and a commitment to safety, it sets a new standard for electrical wiring in both residential and commercial settings. It represents a significant breakthrough in electrical safety, utilizing an innovative electron beam cross-linked compound that is completely halogen-free and capable of withstanding temperatures up to an incredible 900°C. The products speak for themselves, and as a result our efforts to further market footprint

This month we are starting 66 KV cables.

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has been without any challenges. We, however, launched a much-anticipated TVC campaign, #FireSeJyaadaJaanleva, starring Bollywood icon Akshay Kumar. It showcases RR Kabel’s ongoing efforts to promote safety and awareness, underscores the critical importance of choosing high-quality wires for the safety of homes and families.

WCI: Please discuss your distribution strategy, and how is your total production split between markets?

SK: Like I have mentioned, we are India’s largest exporter of wires and cables, and spread across multiple business verticals including fans, lighting, switches, switchgears and appliances. Our significant market reach has been made possible by our distribution network. 95% of our business is done through distributors and 5% is direct. As far as market distribution goes, 72% is domestic and the rest is exports. We export to 95 countries, under our own label. We are the only company doing this in the sector. I am quite optimistic that our

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market shares will rise.

WCI: What are the targets for this year, and also shed some light on Q1 results?

SK: The domestic market is stable and it offers quite a lot of prospects.

We posted our highest ever quarterly revenue of Rs 1808 crores for Q1 FY25 reflecting a 13% year-on-year growth on the back of higher volume in the wire and cable segment. This was despite extreme heat conditions prevailing in the country and volatility in copper prices. Our EBITDA stood at Rs 95 crores while profit after tax was Rs 64 crores for the first quarter of FY25.

The wire and cable segment has been contributing to about 87% of the total revenue with exports contributing to approximately 24% of the total revenue. Our exports will witness footprint expansion. Of course, there are challenges that we all are familiar with, and it is likely they will linger for quite some time. However, there is sufficient room for us to grow. In this backdrop, we are staring at 20% growth. This is a realistic figure.

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Brand Profile

RR means respectable relations and reliable resources for customers.

WCI: How crucial role does sustainability play in the operation of your brand?

SK: As a responsible conglomerate, RR Kabel intends to play a significant role in our nation’s ambitions for sustainable growth. We have already begun our sustainability journey and are well on our way to progress in specific areas of environmental and social governance. Our efforts are not merely about compliance or optics; they reflect our unwavering dedication to creating lasting value for our stakeholders and the communities we serve. Our ESG policy demonstrates our focus on sustainability, combined

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with operational excellence and enhanced offerings, underscores our dedication to achieving RR Kabel’s climate-related objectives.

We’re not only helping customers decrease their carbon footprint but also addressing their demands for performance, durability, and economic value by investing in energy transition technologies, operational efficiency, and emissions reduction.

Environmental sustainability is just one facet of our ESG commitment.

So, sustainability is at the core of our operations. It is in fact embedded in every aspect. Be it human resources management or our reliance on renewable energy. By the end of next year 85% of power will be green.

WCI: Please share some challenges that you would like to highlight.

SK: For a company that has built its success on quality, the manner in which it has been compromised in the industry is a big concern for us. I strongly feel that it shouldn’t

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be overlooked. We have made representation to the government in this respect so that we follow the global standard. Manufacturers should comply with the BIS standards. Users should follow NBC (National Building Code) and National Electrical Code.

For us, as a manufacturer, we believe in catering what our customers deserve‘Quality’.

WCI: How do you see the brand being positioned in the market in the next 5 to 10 years?

SK: Our goal is very simple. We are the most respected brand, and we want to remain so. RR means respectable relations and reliable resources for customers. This is our commitment as well as our belief. With this is at the core of the business, we are certain that our position in the industry will only grow. Today we are a leading name in the industry, tomorrow we will be a bigger name with a more diversified product portfolio with presence in more markets.

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r. Akshit Diviaj Gupta is a young and dynamic professional with a strong entrepreneurial background. He has experience in handling EPC projects and sales & marketing functions of the company. He holds a BBA degree in Management, an Honorary Graduate Fellowship, and has an acute interest and knowledge of diverse business activities.

He was appointed as a Wholetime Director on the Board of the Company on 10th May, 2017.

Prior to that, with effect from 01.06.2016, he was acting as a General Manager (Business Development).

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Wire & Cable India: What inspired you to join KEI Industries?

Who has always been your source of inspiration?

Akshit Diviaj Gupta: Taking the Legacy Forward Delhi-based Krishna Electrical Industries (KEI) was founded in 1968 as a partnership corporation with a primary focus on the production of rubber cables for house wiring.

When its CMD Mr. Anil Gupta joined his father’s electrical wire and cable business, its turnover was just Rs 70 lakh. KEI today is a global empire, providing comprehensive wire and cable solutions. In fact, he has built on the foundation laid by his father Mr. Dayanand Gupta: 5,385 employees, a network of over 30,000 channel partners, and catering products to 55plus countries. It’s a tough and relentless entrepreneurial journey. Today, history repeats itself at KEI. This time, it is Mr. Anil’s son Mr. Akshit Diviaj, Whole Time Director at KEI. Since joining, Mr. Akshit has focused on transforming the brand’s acceptance, especially in the B2C market. It has taken brand visibility to new heights and is committed to staying at the forefront of technological innovation. In an exclusive interview with Wire & Cable India, Mr. Akshit said, “My goal is to cross a turnover of Rs 1 lakh crore and build a more sustainable future for the company.”

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Akshit Diviaj Gupta: The current economic landscape presents a unique opportunity for India to rise as a self-reliant nation. The potential to contribute to this vision by building a stronger, more sustainable future for the next generation deeply resonates with me. The wire and cable industry is at the heart of this transformation, powering the infrastructure that will drive India forward. KEI Industries, with its world-class manufacturing capabilities, is poised to play a crucial role in this journey, and I am inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead.

My father, Mr. Anil Gupta, the CMD of KEI Industries, has been my guiding light and source of inspiration. His relentless dedication and visionary leadership transformed KEI into a global powerhouse. Following in his footsteps, I am committed to furthering his legacy by continuing to build and innovate within this everevolving industry.

WCI: What did you study or do before joining KEI Industries?

Elaborate the relevant experience you have earned.

ADG: Before joining KEI Industries, I earned my MBA from Amity University, where I developed a strong foundation in business management, with a focus on strategic marketing.

This education equipped me with the necessary tools to understand the complexities of the market and the importance of building a strong brand.

Since stepping into the role of Director, I have had the privilege of heading the marketing department at KEI. One of our key strategies has been investing in sports, which not only aligns with our brand values but also resonates deeply with the passion and excitement of our communities. At KEI, we’ve always been pioneers in supporting and promoting athletic excellence.

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Our significant investments in the IPL, particularly with the much-loved team RCB and star player Virat Kohli, underscore our commitment to the sport. Beyond cricket, we have also maintained strong brand visibility in football and kabaddi, driven by our enduring passion for these sports.

We are particularly proud of our support for women’s sports, including India’s home ground matches and various other events. Through these initiatives, I have focused on building brand visibility and establishing a name for KEI in the market, reinforcing our position as a leader in the industry.

WCI: Help us understand some of the changes you have brought to KEI Industries, and what do you aim to achieve?

ADG: Since joining KEI Industries, I have focused on transforming our brand acceptance, especially in the B2C market. Traditionally recognized as an FMEG brand, we successfully created demand in the FMCG sector as well, making KEI a household name.

This shift has not only broadened our market reach but also reinforced our position as a versatile and trusted brand.

As a global brand, KEI has been expanding its digital presence worldwide through a combination of ATL, BTL, and digital media activities.

We’ve taken our visibility to new heights through innovative out-ofhome (OOH) campaigns, including

Our sponsorship of the IPL, along with strategic investments in other sports, played a pivotal role in enhancing KEI’s brand presence in the retail market.

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impactful branding on metro trains.

Our commitment to staying at the forefront of technological innovation is evident in our new advertising campaigns, which introduce AIenabled integration with customers and channel partners.

Our BTL branding activities strategically focus on high footfall areas, ensuring that KEI remains top-of-mind for our target audience.

Additionally, our brand is known for its engaging and interactive content, effectively connecting with audiences through a mix of brand-centric, topical, and promotional content.

Looking ahead, my vision is to diversify KEI’s business and elevate the brand to new heights before I retire. My goal is to cross a turnover of Rs 1 lakh crore and build a more sustainable future for the company. Furthermore, we are deeply committed to supporting CSR initiatives that contribute to the betterment of society, ensuring that KEI not only thrives as a business but also as a responsible corporate organization.

WCI: What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced so far, and how did you overcome it?

ADG: One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced has been shifting KEI Industries’ focus towards the retail sector and building brand awareness in the B2C market. Traditionally, KEI has been strong in the B2B segment, but establishing a foothold in the consumer market required a different approach and significant effort.

To overcome this challenge, we began with extensive primary research to understand consumer needs, preferences, and perceptions of our brand. This insight was crucial in shaping our strategy for brand visibility and market penetration. We then invested heavily in marketing initiatives, particularly in sports, which resonate deeply with our target audience. Our sponsorship of the IPL, along with strategic investments in

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other sports, played a pivotal role in enhancing KEI’s brand presence in the retail market.

These efforts have successfully elevated our brand awareness and positioned KEI as a trusted name in households across India, helping us bridge the gap between our B2B and B2C operations.

WCI: How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals?

ADG: My motivation is deeply rooted in the support of my family and the broader community. They are my constant source of encouragement, inspiring me to push boundaries and strive for excellence in everything I do. The values and principles instilled in me by my family keep me grounded, while the expectations of the community drive me to ensure that KEI Industries continues to grow and contribute positively to society.

Additionally, I am self-motivated by the goals I set for myself and for the company. I believe in leading by example, staying focused on our vision, and maintaining a disciplined approach to achieving our objectives.

The satisfaction of seeing our efforts come to fruition, and the potential to make a lasting impact, keeps me energized and committed to our mission.

WCI: How do you handle feedback and criticism about your business ideas or practices?

ADG: I believe that feedback, whether

In the last 44 years, my father took his father’s business from INR 70 lakh to INR 8000 crores-plus and created a debt-free listed company, a corporate legacy which will be cherished for times to come.

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positive or critical, is essential for growth and improvement. I always take feedback positively, viewing it as an opportunity to refine and enhance our business strategies. Constructive criticism, in particular, is invaluable— it offers fresh perspectives and insights that can lead to better decisionmaking.

I make it a point to learn from every piece of feedback, whether it comes from my team, customers, or industry peers. By carefully considering the feedback, I work on implementing necessary changes and adjustments to ensure that our ideas and practices align with the evolving needs of the market. This approach not only helps in improving our processes but also strengthens our resilience and adaptability as a company.

WCI: What role has mentorship or networking played in your entrepreneurial journey?

ADG: Mentorship has been a cornerstone of my entrepreneurial journey. My father has been my greatest mentor, guiding me with the wisdom and experience he has gained over the years. In the last 44 years, my father took his father’s business from INR 70 lakh to INR 8000 crores-plus and created a debt-free listed company, a corporate legacy which will be cherished for times to come.

His strategic vision, relentless dedication, and ability to overcome challenges have been well recognized for building the brand ‘KEI’ across the globe, including key economies like US, Europe, Middle east, and Australia, etc. which has profoundly shaped my approach to business.

Networking has also played a significant role, allowing me to connect with industry leaders, peers, and innovators. These relationships have provided valuable insights, opened doors to new opportunities, and helped me navigate the complexities of the market. The combination of my father’s mentorship and a strong

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professional network has been instrumental in my growth as a leader and in driving KEI Industries forward.

WCI: How do you balance innovation and risk with practical business considerations and financial stability?

ADG: Balancing innovation with risk and maintaining financial stability requires a careful, strategic approach. I believe in the importance of thorough risk analysis and due diligence before making any business decisions. No decision is taken in isolation; every move is carefully weighed against its potential impact on the company’s financial health and long-term goals.

Recognizing the value of external expertise, I have sought guidance from renowned consulting firms at various stages of KEI’s growth. Their insights have been invaluable in helping us navigate complex challenges while remaining innovative and competitive.

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A testament to our prudent approach is KEI’s current status as a debt-free company with a highly respected financial credit rating of AA+. This financial strength did not come easily—it was earned through diligent management and a commitment to meeting our obligations, even in difficult circumstances. For instance, when KEI had an unsecured debenture loan of over INR 150 crores due for payment, we managed to clear 100% of it, even though 97% of companies in India defaulted on such payments at the time. This achievement not only gained the confidence of our investors but also underscored my commitment to financial responsibility and trustworthiness.

In all our endeavors, financial stability remains paramount. While innovation is crucial for growth, it is always balanced with a clear-eyed understanding of the risks involved

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and the need to maintain the financial integrity of the company.

WCI: How do you see KEI Industries in the next 5 years?

ADG: In the next five years, I envision KEI Industries achieving remarkable growth and solidifying its position as a market leader. We are targeting a turnover of over INR 20,000 crores, with an EBITDA of around 13%. To achieve this, we aim to maintain a CAGR of 17-18%, driven by strategic expansion and diversification.

Brand building will remain a core focus, as we continue to strengthen our presence in both domestic and international markets. We intend to diversify our offerings and enhance our global footprint. This will not only contribute to our financial goals but also ensure that KEI remains at the forefront of innovation and industry leadership.

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Sustainability

Mr. John Slaven, CEO, Vedanta Aluminium at PowerEdge 2024 (Held on 11 September, 2024)

Vedanta Aluminium: Building a Sustainable Tomorrow with Aluminium

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n the fiscal year 2024, Vedanta Aluminium contributed over half of India’s aluminium output, reaching a staggering 2.37 million tonnes. Its mega aluminium smelter in Jharsuguda, Odisha, the largest in the world, is also the sole Indian smelter among the global ‘1 Million Tonne’ production and export members.

Along with BALCO, India’s iconic aluminium smelter based in Chhattisgarh, they have helped Vedanta Aluminium emerge as a frontrunner in the production of value-added aluminum products essential in a wide range of industries.

Known as the ‘Metal of the Future’, aluminium is set to take the lead as the most significant business metal in the coming years, as it offers exceptional design flexibility as well as superb conductivity. Moreover, its distinct characteristics, including a high strength to weight ratio, resistance to corrosion, lightness, exceptional malleability, and endless recyclability, make it a popular choice in sectors such as aerospace, aviation, electrical, transportation, infrastructure, electric vehicles, and renewable energy, among others. Vedanta Aluminium, the biggest producer of aluminium in India and a top international producer, www.wirecable.in

operates in Odisha and Chhattisgarh, serving clients in nearly 60 countries.

In the fiscal year 2024, the company contributed over half of India’s aluminum output, reaching a staggering 2.37 million tonnes. It manages a 3.5 million tonnes per annum alumina refinery located in Odisha’s Lanjigarh. This refinery supplies its extensive aluminum smelting operations at Jharsuguda, Odisha, and Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (BALCO), situated in Korba, Chhattisgarh.

BALCO was established in 1965, marking the inception of a Public

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Sector Unit (PSU). However, in 2001, the Government of India sold 51% of BALCO’s shares to Sterlite Industries, which is now operating under the name Vedanta Limited.

The Jharsuguda facility stands as the globe’s largest aluminum plant, boasting a smelting capacity of 1.8 million tonnes and a complementary 3615 MW thermal power plant. It is the sole Indian smelter among the global ‘1 Million Tonne’ production and export members and contributes to making Vedanta Aluminium a frontrunner in the production of valueadded aluminum products, which are essential in a wide range of industries.

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Sustainability John Slaven, the CEO of the company, mentioned, “We currently hold approximately 50% of the market share within the core segment in India. The country is experiencing a growth rate of about 15% annually, which means it doubles every five years.” He emphasized the company aims to maintain its market position and shared the belief that there’s a significant opportunity for further expansion. “This is a major motivation for us. Additionally, we are highly profitable. We are in the process of achieving full vertical integration. This involves us mining our own bauxite, refining it into alumina, which is then used in metal production, and having our own coal in thermal power plants for electricity generation.” He also highlighted the company’s capital efficiency, noting that the cost of developing new capacity in India is relatively low. “This makes the return on investment very appealing, and the market is showing strong demand for it, making it economically sensible for us to invest,” he stressed.

Products The company’s diverse product portfolio includes Restora low carbon aluminium, billets, wire rods, P1O2O ingots, and rolled products, catering to the energy and electrical sectors. At the recent industry event PowerEdge 2024, the company showcased two new offerings: the AL59 Ingot and the Electrical Conductor (EC) Grade Wire Rod for fine drawing applications. The AL59 Ingot boasts superior electrical conductivity, making it ideal for remelting applications. The EC grade wire rod, designed for winding strip uses, delivers a balance of strength, conductivity, workability, and formability - features that make it wellsuited for fine drawing, conforming, and enamelling in transformer and motor winding applications.

In a country where electricity demand grew by 7% in 2023 and is expected to rise 6% annually through 2026, these new products are poised to play a crucial role. They will help ensure a

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reliable, affordable, and uninterrupted power supply, which is essential for developing an efficient and robust infrastructure that optimally utilizes electricity from generation to load centers. The company claims its wire rods, with their superior conductivity and design flexibility, have become crucial in driving efficiency and sustainability in the energy sector. “By leveraging our expertise, cutting-edge technology, and in-depth understanding of our customers’ unique requirements, we aim to help them achieve greater efficiency, develop innovative product applications, and meet their sustainability goals in a highly competitive global landscape,” said Mr. Slaven.

The company boasts a production capacity of 650 kilotonnes (KT) for wire rods, enabling them to offer a wide range of top-quality products for the electrical industry. These include EC-grade wire rods, alloy wire rods, and flip coils, all manufactured using cutting-edge technologies from Southwire (USA) and ContinuusProperzi (Italy) to ensure exceptional precision and quality. With this impressive scale and breadth of production, the company stands as the world’s largest producer of wire rods.

Market Beyond its offerings that meet the needs of the wire and cable industry, Vedanta Aluminium also caters to sectors such as automotive, building and construction, infrastructure, aerospace, aviation, consumer goods, packaging, and many others. In addition to wire rods, the company also produces one of the largest ranges of high-quality aluminium products in the global industry. Mr. Slaven explained that the company operates two smelter sites with a total of three smelting units. The Jharsuguda location has two units - the original smelter focuses on the domestic market, and a newer smelter has been built in a special economic zone to serve the export market. Additionally, they have the BALCO smelter. In the last fiscal year, the company’s sales mix

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was approximately 60% export and 40% domestic, with their largest export market being Asia, excluding China.

They also sell around 8% to Europe, to North America, but more to Mexico, and South America. The domestic demand is primarily concentrated in the northern regions.

Despite copper’s higher conductivity, aluminium is preferred as it is twice as light and durable in the face of weather elements, and much more cost-effective, making aluminium wire rods the preferred choice for deploying extensive networks of power transmission lines. Besides, its light weight is a crucial parameter for high-voltage power lines that transmit electricity over long distances: aluminium wires reduce the load on grid pylons and increase the distance between them, reducing expenses and construction time. Another special property of aluminium is that it is non-corrosive, ensuring a significantly longer service life (almost 40 years) with minimal maintenance.

Additionally, it can be 100 percent recycled without losing its properties.

The CEO highlighted increased demand in transmission and distribution infrastructure, as distributed renewable power requires more connectivity. Electric vehicles also consume significantly more aluminium than internal combustion engine cars. Sustainable packaging, such as aluminium cans over plastic bottles, and energy-efficient building systems using aluminium extrusions, further contribute to the growing demand the company is experiencing.

Sustainability Sustainability is a core part of Vedanta’s DNA, according to Mr. Slaven. “We’ve been on a long journey to become the most sustainable company. It’s taken a lot of hard work, including our commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2050 or sooner.” This will be achieved through a combination of solar and wind power, as the company aims to phase out coal-fired capacity and increase its use of renewable

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Sustainability energy to 30% by 2030. Vedanta is securing 1.3 GW of renewable energy from India’s Serentica Renewables, a mix of solar and wind power. “Over time, we want to wean ourselves off fossil fuels by securing renewable power so that we can produce green aluminum,” Mr. Slaven stressed.

CO2 per tonne of aluminum. When Mr. Slaven was asked about the bearings Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) his company could face, he noted that CBAM would not disadvantage Vedanta, as the company has already addressed its Scope 1 and 2 emissions.

billion by 2030. In this landscape, the company is positioned as one of the world’s largest aluminium producers, and it takes pride in creating ‘marketresponsive products and services that provide our customers an unmatched competitive advantage in their evolving business journey’.

Its low-carbon aluminium brand, Restora, is the result of its manufacturing expertise, innovative technologies, and commitment to net zero by 2050. Restora offers two product lines - standard low-carbon aluminium made with renewable energy, and Restora Ultra, an ultralow carbon aluminum made from recovered aluminium through Vedanta’s partnership with Runaya Refining. Restora has a greenhouse gas emissions intensity well below the global threshold of 4 tonnes of

Outlook

Vedanta Aluminium is fulfilling its mission of spurring emerging applications of aluminium as the ‘Metal of the Future’ by marrying sustainable and efficient manufacturing practices with best-ofbreed technology, the CEO shared. “As countries and companies make pace on their Net Zero commitments, the foreseeable future will be metals and minerals intensive. Being the largest aluminium producer from India, we are at the forefront of developing special alloys to cater to the rapidly evolving demands of a low carbon economy.”

The global aluminum market size, according to Straits Research, was valued at USD 150 billion in 2021, and is projected to reach USD 255 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.1% during the forecast period (2022–2030).

In India, the sector is a bright spot as the government rolls out infrastructure and industry seek to satisfy growing demand. Next Move Strategy Consulting put the size of the Indian aluminium market at $11.28 billion in 2023, and it is expected to reach $19.76

NEWS

Reel Power Acquires Novatec’s Downstream Extrusion Line Equipment The acquisition allows Reel Power to provide a turn-key downstream package to customers, increasing its automation offering for improved productivity.

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eel Power Industrial Inc, the leader in the design and build of high precision automated coiling, spooling, and winding equipment, has acquired the downstream equipment products for extrusion lines from Novatec Inc, the largest U.S.-based manufacturer of industry-leading drying and conveying equipment for extrusion, injection, blow molding and food industries.

coiling, reeling and spooling solutions to prospects needing downstream equipment to solve their line requirements.

With the addition of pullers, cutters and cooling tanks, Reel Power Industrial will be able to provide to customers a complete downstream solution.

This downstream product divestment allows Novatec to focus on their core conveying, drying and moisture equipment solutions, providing a strong product offerings base to focus on and expand its lead in their overall business.

Both Reel Power Industrial and Novatec design, manufacture and market high-quality capital equipment solutions.

The acquisition is also a strong fit for Reel Power, which already offers high-quality downstream reeling, coiling, and spooling solutions for several markets. This acquisition allows Reel Power Industrial Inc to provide a turn-key downstream package to customers, one that increases the automation offering for improved productivity.

Conrad Bessemer, CEO Novatec & Joe Henry, CEO Reel Power Industrial Inc, believe that their respective companies will benefit from this transaction, as it provides each with the ability to improve their overall company’s strategic market focus, and to concentrate those efforts on a well-defined, market segmented business models.

Reel Power focuses on providing application-specific

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Jul-Aug, 2024

T&D

Sterlite Power Transmission: Driving Growth with Humanity

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terlite Power Transmission Limited is known to be a leading integrated power transmission developer and solutions provider globally. Its Global Product and Services (GPS) business spans from the production of conductors, cables and OPGW to specialized EPC services. Their ‘Overhead Business’ achieved a CAGR of nearly 30 percent, while the ‘Cables Business’ experienced a bold CAGR of 60 percent in the past four years, with the specialized EPC services quadrupling in the last few years. This was revealed

by Mr. Reshu Madan, Chief Executive Officer, Global Products & Services (GPS) Business, Sterlite Power Transmission Limited, during his interaction with Wire & Cable India.

Wire & Cable India: What according to you are the challenges in the existing transmission grid of India?

Mr. Reshu Madan, Chief Executive Officer, Global Products & Services (GPS) Business, Sterlite Power Transmission Limited

Reshu Madan: India’s transmission and distribution (T&D) sector is at a pivotal juncture, with decarbonization efforts and government initiatives propelling it into an era of transformation.

Despite the excitement, the sector faces significant hurdles, including complex integration, transition management, and security challenges.

Key issues include right-of-way (ROW) constraints for transmission lines, outdated infrastructure, surging energy demands, and the challenge of connecting remote locations to the grid. These factors strain the existing infrastructure, requiring upgrades.

While progress has been made in the 220 kV & 132 kV category, enhancing the distribution network remains critical. Reconductoring existing lines is a strategic move that can conserve both time and capital.

Utilities need to incorporate the use of high-performance conductors in the planning stage, as they significantly increase transmission capacity and are required to meet demand.

Moreover, the T&D sector can greatly benefit from targeted incentives, which will encourage substantial

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capital expenditure from private entities. Such incentives can catalyze investment and innovation, addressing the sector’s challenges, including the need for modernization to support the increasing adoption of renewable energy and the development of a more resilient grid.

WCI: What are your recent developments & contributions in the T&D sector?

RM: Global Product and Services (GPS) spans from the production of conductors, cables and OPGW to specialized EPC services, which all together have been continually making an impact, not only in India but across the globe as well.

The Overhead Business boasts a state-of-the-art production facility for overhead conductors and OPGW, achieving a double-digit CAGR of nearly 30 percent recently. With a full order book, we’re expanding to meet the surging global energy demand, reflecting our commitment to the global energy transition.

The Cables Business has also seen robust growth, with a bold CAGR of 60 percent in the past four years. In FY 2024, we secured market lead in the HV-EHV segment. We supply cables to nationally significant projects like the development of the metro, data centres, state utilities, etc. We also Jul-Aug, 2024

T&D provide end-to-end solutions as a part of our turnkey EPC of cables.

Our specialized EPC services have quadrupled in the last few years. We are known for our technological edge, featuring drone use in challenging terrains and live line reconductoring, which enables faster project completion and sets us apart in the industry. Through continuous advancements in products, SPTL will continue to contribute to the development of the T&D sector in India and across the globe.

The upcoming years will see a heightened demand for HVDC cables in India, driven by offshore wind projects, interconnectors, and green hydrogen initiatives. potentially leading to hefty import dependency.

WCI: What are your short-term & long-term future plans?

To counter this, the government is considering funding programs, including a PLI scheme for HV cables, to cut down on imports and stimulate job growth. These measures, coupled with possible incentives such as stamp duty waivers and fiscal benefits, are expected to yield benefits between FY 2028 and FY 2032, coinciding with the schedule of various energy-related projects.

RM: The energy sector is experiencing exceptional growth, supported by government policies and initiatives. Over the next 5-10 years, the market is expected to flourish, with a projected CAGR of 8-10 percent in India and 6-8 percent CAGR globally for both overhead and cables, while specialized EPC services in India could see a staggering 30-40 percent growth. Our vision is to be among the world’s top 10 wire & cable companies. We are actively exploring opportunities to expand our international footprint, engage in inorganic expansion and delve into high-value products.

Moreover, it’s essential for transmission projects to factor in the total life cycle costs, including transmission losses, to promote the use of top-tier products that deliver value.

This approach would increase the demand for sophisticated products and bolster high-value manufacturing within India.

FOR SALE

We are known for our technological edge, featuring drone use in challenging terrains and live line reconductoring, which enables faster project completion and sets us apart in the industry.

USED OFC Machines High Speed Dual Takeup Loose Tube Buffering Line Make: Conductix Wampfler(Delachaux Group)

WCI: What further can we expect from the Government on this front?

Tandem Sheathing Line (100 & 80 mm Extruders, Make: Supermac).

RM: The manufacturing sector is a cornerstone of India’s economy, accounting for approximately 17 percent of its GDP. As India aims for 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030, Sterlite Power will play a crucial role in this eco-friendly shift through their cutting-edge products through solar cables and development in transmitting renewable power.

Fibre Coloring Line (Make: ZTT, Heathway & Technical Development Corporation), Stranding or S-Z Core Line (Make: FRISCH, SZ 300)

The Make in India initiative has significantly impacted economic expansion, attracted foreign investments, and generated employment. The Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, especially the 50,000 MW earmarked for solar energy, reflects the nation’s dedication to having imports substitution and nurturing local manufacturing.

Test equipments Like Anritsu OTDR , Splicing machine etc

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The upcoming years will see a heightened demand for HVDC cables in India, driven by offshore wind projects, interconnectors, and green hydrogen initiatives. Despite this, the country faces a shortfall in production capacity,

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Jul-Aug, 2024

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Jul-Aug, 2024

Optical Fibre Cables

The Backbone of

Modern

Communications Infrastructure

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riven by increased broadband penetration, rising internet TV streaming services, and the overall growth of the telecommunications sector, the Indian optic fibre market is witnessing significant growth. The scale in which it is used underscores the technological reality that we stand on the brink of another revolution that will fundamentally alter the way we live, work, and relate to one another.

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Jul-Aug, 2024

Optical Fibre Cables Landscape Composed of very thin strands of extremely pure glass fibres, fibre optic cables essentially transmit information using light from lasers or LEDs that are modulated with data or used in some cases as a light source.

Each strand can carry something like 25,000 telephone calls, and an entire fibre-optic cable can easily carry several million calls. The origin goes to 1952, when UK-based physicist Narinder Singh Kapany invented the first actual fibre optical cable. Thirteen years later researchers Charles Kao and George Hockman discovered that attenuation of fibre optics was caused by impurities in manufacturing, and if the attenuation could be lowered sufficiently fibre optics could be used as a practical means of communication.

The barrier was finally broken in 1970.

In two decades, fibre optics became the dominant carrier of electronic information, forming the absolute backbone of the modern communications infrastructure. Today, they are used in internet installation, cable television, telecommunication, automobiles, medical, military, aerospace and lighting. The scale in which OFC is used underscores the technological reality that we stand on the brink of another revolution that will fundamentally alter the way we live, work,

OFCs are finding increasing applications in emerging sectors like data centers, which require high-speed and reliable connections to be enabled using optical fibre technology. The growth of smart cities and IoT also necessitates advanced fibre optic solutions for seamless connectivity and data transfer.

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and relate to one another.

Growth Drivers The global fibre optic cable market size is estimated at USD 12.83 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 19.26 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 8.46% during the forecast period (2024-2029), says Mordor Intelligence. Driven by increased broadband penetration, rising internet TV streaming services, and the overall growth of the telecommunications sector, the Indian optic fibre and accessories market is witnessing significant growth. An Actual Market Research report suggests that the size of the Indian market could cross USD 2.41 billion by 2028. Rapid expansion of 5G networks and the growing adoption of fibre-to-the-home (FTTH), in particular, are the major factors that will drive the robust growth in the coming years.

According to Vipul Nagpal, Founder and Managing Director, Orient Cables India, “A growing demand for highspeed internet and data transmission, coupled with increasing adoption of cloud computing, IoT, and smart technologies, along with environmental benefits such as lower energy consumption, are some of the factors which contribute to the attractiveness of the optical fibre cable segment, driving companies and innovators to explore opportunities in this field.”

He notes that the need for a reliable, high-capacity and secure communication network has got a big push from the government, which has introduced a slew of schemes and initiatives to increase investments in digital infrastructure.

Mr. Sidharth Agrawal, Managing Director of Systematic Group concurs that India’s rapid growth and increasing demand for fast data transmission are driving the need for advanced communication networks. The MD shares the prediction that Optical Fibre Cables (OFC) are set to play a crucial role in building a robust and converged telecommunications network that meets the demands of wired

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broadband and future-ready 5G applications. He highlights how Systematic Group recognized the transformative potential of fibre optics in enabling faster and more reliable data transmission across various industries.

“The rapid growth of digital communication and the increasing demand for high-speed internet access were key motivators for entering the optic fibre segment.” Mr. Agrawal highlights the recent tender of BSNL BharatNet Phase 3 project, valued at INR 1.4 lakh crore, which aims to extend highspeed internet connectivity to rural areas by upgrading existing infrastructure in 164,000 gram panchayats and connecting an additional 47,000 gram panchayats, covering a substantial portion of India’s rural landscape.

“Our facility, which has already been approved from TSEC by BSNL, positions us perfectly to contribute to this monumental initiative. Additionally, our commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements drove us to invest in this sector, ensuring we contribute to the global shift towards more connected and smarter infrastructures,” he elaborates.

Products Range Mr. Harsh Pagay, Executive President - Optical Fibre & Optical Fibre Cable, HFCL shares that over the last two years of transformation, his company has evolved into a technology-driven enterprise with a strong focus on developing a comprehensive product portfolio. The company designs and produces a range of next-generation OFC solutions, including intermittent bonded ribbon (IBR) cables, FTTH cables, microduct cables and underground cables. These cables are offered in multiple variants with low-diameter and higher fibre densities, which are customized as per the consumer’s needs. HFCL’s cables portfolio finds application across a plethora of sectors like telecom, data centers, FTTH, defence and railways.

Our high fibre count IBR cables are particularly well-suited for data centers, while our rugged armoured

Jul-Aug, 2024

Optical Fibre Cables cables ensure high durability and performance in demanding environments, for industries such as railways and defence, says Mr. Pagay. Over the years, the company, he claims, has been able to maintain its leadership in the Indian OFC space, driven by our R&D efforts, particularly in micro cable designs. He says that the company’s ultra-compact 1728F IBR cable is designed to allow higher fibre counts in smaller diameter ducts, enabling cost-efficient deployment of networks and easy installation in congested areas. “Some of our cables, including IBR Microcable and 288-576F, have won various prestigious international awards like Cabling Innovators Award, LIGHTWAVE Award, and MERIT Award. HFCL has also received a patent for its ULW 96F cable, offering the company a first-mover advantage to capitalize on the growing demand,” he adds.

Sterlite Technologies Limited (STL) is another world’s leading optical and digital solutions provider. “Our optic fibre solutions cater to the requirements serving a wide range of applications. Our lower bend loss optical fibre is best suited for enabling high-network performance and significantly lower installation costs,” says Mr. Rahul Puri, Vice President and General Manager of Europe, the Middle East, India, and Africa & Asia Pacific at Sterlite Technologies Limited. STL offers a range of 250um and 200um bend insensitive single mode fibre and non-zero dispersion shifted single mode fibre (NZDSF) solutions suitable for 5G and FTTx applications. Mr. Puri maintains that they have really pushed the envelope in fibre optic technology with some exciting innovations that are shaping the future of connectivity. “Almost three decades back, we started with one plant in India, and today, we have 10 global production facilities, one of which is in the US. One of the greatest milestones in this journey has been setting up our own glass preform manufacturing - a rare feat in the global optical industry.”

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Mr. Puri goes on to say that STL’s competitive edge lies in its ability to address the increasing data demands through innovative, fibre-deep networks and data centres, which are crucial for faster 5G and Fibre-to-theHome (FTTH) adoption. What makes it unique is its wide product range, including patch cords, fibre termination boxes, joint closures and fibre management systems, all designed for seamless compatibility across various network bandwidths. These solutions cater to diverse applications, enabling network providers to easily build agile, flexible and high-quality networks. “STL’s optotec devices are particularly notable for their targeted approach, addressing the specific needs of networks and service providers. This makes it easier for companies to scale fibre deployment efficiently.”

Manufacturing a wide range of optical fibre cables at its plants in Goa and Maharashtra, Finolex Cables caters Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecommunication Equipment (MTCTE)-certified products. According to the company’s President – Operations, Mr. Sunil Upmanyu, “Our product portfolio includes designs such as direct burial cables with corrugated steel tape armoring, suitable for telecom, highways, and utility sectors. We also produce wire armoured cables, featuring either steel or plastic tubes, designed for rugged applications, including use in challenging terrains like river crossings.” The company also specialises in developing and supplying IGFR (impregnated glass fibre) armoured cables, which are non-metallic and widely used by leading telecom operators. For urban areas, its unarmoured duct cables are preferred by telecom companies and contractors where cables are laid inside ducts. The company also produces high-capacity ribbon optical fibre cables in both armoured and unarmoured designs, with capacities of up to 1728 fibres, catering to data centres and the telecom sector. For regions with difficult terrain, such as hilly areas or river crossings, it manufactures

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aerial cables with various properties, including anti-tracking for power lines and ADSS cables with anti-bird bite features. “We also produce simplex and duplex cables for patch cords used in data centres, adhering to global standards. Our spiral armoured cables meet the needs of tower fibreisation, and our optical fibre cables are approved by all major telecom operators for the Fibre-to-the-Antenna (FTTA) applications. Furthermore, we manufacture and export microduct cables to various international markets,” says Mr. Upmanyu.

A new player in the segment offering a wide range is Systematic Group. Its offering includes single-mode and multi-mode fibres, each designed to meet specific performance criteria and application needs. “These include armoured/unnarmoured dust cable with unitube and multitube options, micro cables with unitube and multitube options, ADSS (All-Dielectric Self-Supporting) cable with single sheath and double sheath options, aerial cable with unitube and multitube options, and CATV cables,” shares Mr. Agrawal. According to him the cables are unique in their enhanced durability, flexibility, and optimized signal transmission capabilities, which are crucial for high-performance environments. They are engineered to excel in various applications, from telecommunications and broadband networks to industrial automation and data centres, ensuring reliable and highspeed connectivity.

Mr. Pramod Kumar Srivastava says West Coast Optilinks’ products find application in many sectors, such as telecommunications, utilities, data centres, smart cities, defence and other segments requiring high-speed data connectivity. Additional applications include healthcare, industrial automation, smart cities and intelligent transportation systems. “Looking ahead, we may explore emerging sectors that require a robust fibre infrastructure for high-volume data like renewable energy, smart homes, security and surveillance. Other potential

Jul-Aug, 2024

Optical Fibre Cables

The global fibre optic cable market size is estimated at USD 12.83 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 19.26 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 8.46% during the forecast period (2024-2029)

areas of growth could be Internet of Things (IoT), AI and autonomous vehicles, all of which depend on reliable and high-speed data transmission provided by fibre optic technology,” the CEO adds.

Enablers The latest advancements in fibre optic technology are transforming the way we communicate and access information. “Researchers have achieved remarkable improvements in fibre optic transmission speeds, enabling faster data transfer rates. This means quicker downloads, seamless video streaming, and efficient data exchange,” says Mr. Nagpal.

Mr. Pankaj Priyadarshi says Rosendahl Nextrom is the only company in the world to offer a complete manufacturing value chain for optical fibre and cable production - from glass preforms to fibre drawing, testing, coloring, to the finished cable. He is the Global Director, Business Development – Fibre Optics, Managing Director - India, Rosendahl Nextrom.

Rosendahl Nextrom’s machines are tailor-made in Europe, with all critical components produced in-house. The company is developing solutions for producing large optical fibre preforms using vacuum sintering to enhance cost efficiency and reduce dependency on helium, a volatile commodity. Additionally, it is continuously advancing

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fibre drawing and testing machines to boost productivity. Mr. Priyadarshi stresses that their latest innovations for the loose tube manufacturing process include a high-speed fibre launching system, a dual clenching system, reworked fibre cutting for high speeds and improved jelly-filling.

Over the past 30 years, STL has developed expertise across the entire optical fibre value chain, which it refers to as ‘glass to gigabit connectivity’. This involves the process of creating optical fibres, cables and optical connectivity, starting from the initial glass preform. It claims to be one of only six companies globally that produce our own glass preforms, which boast a remarkable purity of ~99.99 percent. The level of purity is so high that looking through these glass preforms would allow you to see the bottom of the ocean, says Mr. Puri. “These semiconductor-grade glass preforms are made using very high-purity (5N) chemicals. They are designed and manufactured in India at our glass plant in Aurangabad, Maharashtra. This facility is India’s first and only advanced clean room glass manufacturing plant.” Exceptional glass quality directly impacts the performance of optical fibres and high-quality fibres, in turn, impact the quality of cables. This integrated expertise ensures superior network performance.

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On innovations, Mr. Puri says STL’s multicore multiverse fibre is a game-changer in terms of capacity. It can handle four times the fibre capacity compared to traditional designs.

It’s perfect for high-demand environments, where bandwidth and speed are critical. Those dealing with tight spaces or complex installations rely on StellarTM fibre, the world’s first bend-resilient fibre. “It can perform exceptionally well even when bent around corners or in confined spaces.

Plus, it’s fully backward compatible, so you don’t need to worry about upgrading your entire system,” he stresses. STL also focuses on reducing size without ‘compromising on performance’. It maintains that its 180-micron and 160-micron fibres are among the slimmest in the world. He says that they have three times more capacity than standard 250-micron fibres, making them ideal for applications needing less and top-notch performance.

Mr. Upmanyu asserts that Finolex Cables’s plants being certified with multiple ISO standards, including TL 9000 and ISO 9001, ensures that the cables are manufactured according to the highest global standards and practices. “We use advanced machinery sourced from top global suppliers to produce optical fibre and optical fibre cables that fully comply with customer specifications. For preform

Jul-Aug, 2024

Optical Fibre Cables manufacturing, we have adopted the Vapour Axial Deposition (VAD) process, a technology commonly used by leading Japanese fibre optic companies.” Currently, Finolex Cables is the only company, Mr Upmanyu claims, in India using this state-of-the-art technology for mass production of single-mode low-loss bend-insensitive optical fibres.

HFCL has made significant R&D investments to continuously innovate and meet evolving industry demands while enhancing network infrastructure, Mr. Pagay says. With three R&D centers and a team of 305 dedicated professionals, it has focused on developing indigenous technology and its own IPR, while strengthening manufacturing capabilities with forward and backward integration. Over the years, this has enabled the company to create a robust supply chain with minimal reliance on external factors, positioning itself as a complete endto-end service provider. “HFCL’s splitters are engineered to be space-efficient, best suited for compact network infrastructures. Our cabinet portfolio has helped telecom players and enterprises optimize network hardware and cable management systems.”

Installation and After-Sales Beyond supplying optical fibre cables, several companies manage the entire cable process, from warehousing to distribution. HFCL notes that it provides comprehensive, end-to-end solutions, ensuring customers receive full support at every stage for optimal performance. The company informs that its network solutions are designed to future-proof investments of customers, offering a lifespan of up to 25 years with consistent performance.

“With the installation of a complete range of HFCL’s products, our customer servicing team also provides easy and convenient follow-up services.

This approach not only maximizes efficiency, but also ensures durable and sustainable results. With our domain expertise and technological strengths, we have successfully deployed over

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175,000 km of optical fibre cables across the length and breadth of our country,” Mr. Pagay elucidates.

Similarly, Finolex Cables claims to have launched a new vertical offering ‘Optical Fibre Cable installation services’ to provide our customers with end-to-end solutions, with operations having already started in a few states and are focusing on gaining strength and experience in this new venture. Mr Upmanyu states that the company’s commitment to quality has earned them the status of ‘a Key Deployment Partner’ with one of India’s leading telecom operators. We are also exploring the use of the latest technologies in fibre optic laying and deployment, similar to those used in developed countries, he adds.

Sustainability The consensus across the industry is that sustainability is very crucial to all operations and should remain so, as the industry has a significant environmental impact. Mr. Nagpal maintains that Orient Cables India has implemented energy-efficient manufacturing processes, LED lighting and renewable energy sources, zero-wasteto-landfill policies and water-saving measures in manufacturing processes to reduce carbon footprint, packaging waste and energy consumption, as well as ensure scrap management. According to him, the company ensures responsible sourcing of raw materials, has obtained certifications like ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) and comply with environmental regulations.

Similarly, STL views it as integral to our purpose, not just as a compliance or corporate responsibility issue. Sustainability is embedded in everything the company does, from the projects it undertakes to the way it manages environmental impacts. It is actively working towards achieving net zero emissions by 2030. Mr. Puri asserts that STL has made significant strides by aligning with the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), which helps

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ensure that the targets are scientifically grounded. This is a part of the broader strategy, which also includes pioneering efforts like launching the world’s first third-party accredited eco-labelled methodology in the optical industry. In FY24 alone, their Indian and Italian plants achieved Zero Waste to Landfill (ZWL) and Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) certifications.

“This means we’re effectively managing waste and recycling a substantial amount of water - about 162,000 cubic meters, significantly reducing our environmental footprint. Additionally, we’ve successfully diverted around 25,000 metric tonnes of waste from landfills.”

In resource conservation, STL has achieved replenishment of over 2.69 million cubic meters of water into local communities. Its afforestation efforts have seen the planting of approximately 290,000 trees in Maharastra’s Aurangabad. Through its RoboEdge program, the company says it is equipping young students in Maharashtra and Dadra and Nagar Haveli with advanced STEM skills, including robotics and AI. Additionally, our Jeewan Jyoti program supports women in over 100 villages in Maharashtra by providing them with skills and entrepreneurial opportunities,” Mr. Puri elucidates.

For Finolex, sustainability is not just a goal, but a guiding fundamental principle. It has a 5 MW solar power plant dedicated to captive consumption, allowing the company to produce optical fibres and optical fibre cables at its Urse plant in Maharashtra using green energy. This initiative, according to Mr. Upmanyu, also benefits customers by contributing to their sustainability goals. “All our plants are ISO 14001:2015 certified for environmental management systems.

To reduce wood consumption, we supply OF cables in coils wherever possible. Our packing materials are made of polyethene bags used with a minimum thickness of more than 50 microns and are recyclable.”

Jul-Aug, 2024

Graphite & Carbon

PIYU CHEM IMPEX PVT. LTD.

Optical Fibre Cables HFCL is also shifting its product base towards greener products. One such example is the company’s Optibend portfolio, which, Mr. Pagay claims, has achieved a 64 percent reduction in the consumption of Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), 30 percent less High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) consumption, and 5 percent less jelly consumption. Additionally, the company has replaced plastic packaging with cardboard and increased drum packaging by 40 percent, helping them improve packaging efficiency and reducing emissions during transportation. All raw materials the company uses in the manufacturing process comply with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) and the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulations, Mr. Pagay stresses.

Challenges In the face of prolonged geopolitical crises, nations raising trade tariffs and protectionism, the industry isn’t without its set of challenges. The European Commission Directorate General for Trade has levied provisional anti-dumping duty - ranging between 8.7% and 11.4% - on nearly a dozen Indian optical fibre cable makers, while exempting imports from HFCL Ltd and its subsidiary HTL Ltd. In June, a duty of 8.7% was levied on exports from Birla Cable Ltd, Universal Cables Ltd and Vindhya Telelinks Ltd to the European Union. As per the order, Sterlite Technologies and Sterlite Tech Cables Solutions Ltd will incur 11.4% duties on their exports while a 9.9% duty has been levied on Aberdare Technologies Private Ltd, Aksh Optifibre Ltd, Apar Industries Ltd, Polycab India Ltd, UM Cables Ltd, and ZTT India Private Ltd. All other exporters will incur a duty of 11.4%.

and reducing production costs. While reducing production costs, it has to ensure consistent and high-quality of our products that meet stringent industry standards, regulations and certifications. Finolex Cables’ Mr. Upmanyu underlines global supply chain disruptions caused by geopolitical factors, including currency fluctuations and shifts in raw material prices, as significant challenges. One of the challenges HFCL has noted is dumping of low-quality OFCs from China, and the company sees the subsequent imposition of tariffs as a level-playing ground to protect players like them.

For Systematic Group, volatility in raw material prices, which impacts production costs, stands out as the major challenge. “In mature markets, the OFC sector is becoming increasingly saturated, with numerous players offering similar products. This intense competition leads to price wars, which can erode profit margins,” informs Mr. Agrawal. He also agrees that supply chain disruptions, particularly during global crises, also pose significant challenges in maintaining steady production and timely delivery.

India is a unique telecom market where post consolidation, there are only four telecom operators, says Mr.

Srivastava. “Investment by telecom operators has been slow for the last few quarters and fibre deployment for mass roll out of the 5G network is yet to happen. Raw material price fluctuations, coupled with logistical challenges due to geo-political issues, are putting a lot of pressure on cost of products. While large buyers prefer to keep fixed prices for longer period/ project durations, such uncertainty in input prices poses challenges to meet the cost and impacts margins significantly.”

Market Positioning HFCL is a market leader in the Indian OFC market and a trusted partner of choice across key global markets, including the UK, Europe, the US, the Middle East and Africa. HFCL claims that it has maintained a leadership position with over 60 percent market share in the Indian OFC market. It is a key partner in key markets, including the UK, Europe, the US, the Middle East, and Africa. To meet rising demand, the company has expanded its optical fibre capacity from 12 million fibre kilometers (fkm) to 33 million fkm, and our optical fibre cable capacity from 25 million fkm to 30 million fkm. We are determined to capitalize on global opportunities and boost rev-

As a leading manufacturer and exporter of an extensive range of cables, Orient Cables India faces challenges, such as meeting the exponential growth in global bandwidth demand while maintaining quality of products

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Jul-Aug, 2024

Optical Fibre Cables enue from international operations, Mr. Pagay says. To achieve this, the company is actively developing new product portfolios that meet international standards and appointing employees, agents, and distributors in key markets.

Mr. Ashish D. Jain, Executive President & COO, Telecom Business, Polycab India Limited says they have continued expansion in OFC manufacturing capacity to meet the growing demands under BSNL’s BharatNet Phase III, SPV-run BharatNet Phase III and other upcoming projects. He goes on to say that the company continues to export OFCs and FRP rods, ARP rods and IGFR yarns in diverse customizations to meet the specific needs of its global clients.

Future and Market Outlook Mr. Puri sees the Indian market with

Kund Kund Polymers half www.wirecable.in 16 September 2024 16:39:55

significant potential for increased fibre usage per person and the number of homes with access to fibre, driven by the growth of 5G technology. In the future, he expects substantial investments from both private and public sectors to boost the deployment of fibre for 5G towers, small cells and FTTH, to expand global fibre penetration. By fiscal year 2025, the National Broadband Mission aims to fibreise 70 percent of India’s base transceiver station (BTS) to support efficient 5G services. “Looking ahead to 2024-25, the market is expected to grow even more. Investments will continue to flow, new technologies will continue to emerge, and competition will increase, potentially leading to even better and more affordable products.

Overall, this is an exciting time for the sector,” he adds.

Rosendahl Nextrom India’s Mr. Priya-

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darshi believes that despite current headwinds in the global telecom fibre landscape, the company is optimistic about the long-term potential of optical fibre deployment in India and globally. “There is a lot of interest in how the requirements will change with the large-scale adoption of AI. In particular, we are seeing high interest in specialty fibre and data centre solutions. Our focus for 2024-25 continues to be on addressing these new needs, while also further developing cost-effective manufacturing solutions for the optical fibre industry,” he stresses.

Programs like BharatNet should create a substantial market for optical fibre cables as they form the backbone of an expanded digital network, Mr. Srivastava notes. He underscores that innovations in optical technology in active space as well as advanced fibre materials are

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The Future of Optical Fibre Communication Network The global OFC market is expected to pick up from early 2025 and should augur well for the entire industry with the expected uptake in the augmentation of existing 4G networks and the new build-up in the stand-alone 5G networks. It is expected that by 2025-26, at least 75 percent of India’s cell towers will need fibreization for a full scale.

Mr. R. Sridharan, Chief Executive Officer – Birla Cable Ltd. & President – Vindhya Telelinks Ltd.

Global and Domestic Optical Fibre Cable Markets The global optical fibre cable (OFC) market faced several challenges, including elevated inventory levels, lower investments by telecom operators due to high interest rates and an uncertain economic environment coupled with geopolitical disturbances witnessed during the second half of 2023, which continued in the first half of 2024 as well.

Excess manufacturing capacity proved difficult to consolidate, particularly in China which is still the largest consuming country in terms of substantial volumes of OFCs. The same was the case in both North American cable markets as well as in the European continent, putting enormous pressure on yield levels in the overall

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business.

In fact, the industry had witnessed a huge drop in the bare optical fibre price levels by almost 50 percent as compared to the price levels in the beginning of 2023. On the positive front, the global OFC market is expected to pick up from the early 2025 and should augur well for the entire industry as a whole riding on the expected uptake in the augmentation of existing 4G networks and the new build-up in the stand-alone 5G networks for mobile communication requirements along with the huge reach-out goals set out by various countries with the expected roll-out of Fibre-To-The-Home (FTTH) networks.

As far as the domestic OFC market is concerned, India is the largest market

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in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) excluding China region with a contribution of over 27 percent in the regional cable demand. However, in the second half of 2023, the demand from private carriers and ISPs halted and ultimately drove down the cable consumption in India by 17 percent from the previous six-month level. As a result, the overall cable market contracted by 8.8 percent in 2023, with the total cable consumption in India coming down to 16.4 million fibre km.

Further, the initiation of Anti-Dumping Duty Investigation by European Commission on imports of OFCs originating from India and the subsequent imposition of Provisional Anti-Dumping Duty on the Indian OFC manufacturers has added to the challenges of the domestic cable industry.

Jul-Aug, 2024

From The Desk Overall, the period starting from the second half of 2023 and the entire calendar year of 2024 can be categorized as a valley in the overall business cycle due to various reasons as elucidated. However, the overall situation is expected to improve from the early 2025 and it is estimated to pick up with robust demand in the coming years, especially with the long awaited BhartNet Phase III tender which was announced and all the major players have participated in this opportunity, as it involves huge route kms of OFC requirement.

This project upon finalization is poised to significantly strengthen the domestic demand in the coming years for OFCs, as it involves the connection and upgradation of existing 164,000 gram panchayats and also connect around additional 47,000 gram panchayats.

Further, rise in the need for fast and improved networking and network services, increased penetration of broadband services and huge expansion in setting up of data centres in India to cater to the needs of increased data consumption by the masses are expected to be the major growth drivers for the domestic OFC consumption.

Market Segments In general, OFC markets are categorized into the following focus segments. Ç Government-Driven Telecom Network Projects Ç Private Telecom Operators in both existing 4G & new 5G Mobile Communication Network Ç Fibre-To-The-Home (FTTH) Network Ç Internet Service Providers (ISPs) Ç Power/Energy Utility Network Ç Oil & Gas Pipeline Network Ç Road Transport and Highways Ç Railways and Metro Rail Network Ç Data Centres Ç Defence Network Ç Renewable Energy Network – both Solar & Wind for SCADA www.wirecable.in

applications Ç Private Data Centre Network Ç Tactical Communication Network in Defence Applications Ç Indoor Communication Network Ç Long Distance Submarine Communication Network All the above market segments require both underground and aerial type of Optical Fibre Cables based on various network topologies except in Indoor and Submarine segments.

Available and Upcoming Optical Fibre Cable Products The current range in OFCs generally falls under the outdoor range in both underground and aerial types, indoor segments. However, new age applications require micro or mini OFCs where space constraints are encountered during the network build-up, which are in reduced overall cable diameters.

Some special types of fibres like bend-insensitive OFs are used in these types of smaller micro or mini cables, thereby providing improved bend performance of the cables during installation as well as during the operational cycle of the entire OFC network. These types of new age cables are coming up in the market, driving the innovation potential of the industry as a whole. Also, new age types of specialty optical fibre drop cables are being installed in the access and last mile connectivity networks, thereby enabling faster connectivity to the huge subscriber demand for OFbased network connections.

Technologies Used and Significant Innovations Anticipated As the evolving network technologies require varied designs and innovative approaches for cable manufacturing, the OFC types are undergoing tremendous variations and new designs are coming up in the industry.

Special designs of cable require new manufacturing tools and machinery which drives innovation in the

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manufacturing machinery designs and ultimately delivers best-inclass cable products in line with the futuristic telecommunication network requirements. Bare optical fibre, the main raw material in the manufacturing of cables, is also undergoing a lot of research and development. New speciality fibres are expected to be introduced in the near future, which will definitely pack more data coupled with ultra-high speed communication networks and very low latency standards.

Sustainability Sustainability is the key for the futuristic development of the OFC manufacturing industry as it should be environmentally safe in terms of usage of raw materials and its selection to start with. Introduction of environmentally-safe manufacturing practices, adoption of large scale recycling methodologies in the manufacturing process, which will ultimately pave the way for sustainable manufacturing operations, are good indicators for the proper implementation of regulatory requirements in a systematic way.

Some of the steps like conservation of water resources coupled with regulated use and renewable energy usage in the cable manufacturing industry will be the key for sustainable business operations, which some of the major OFC players have already adopted.

Challenges Like every other industry, OFC manufacturing segment also faces challenges in terms of policy changes from government authorities, trade-related issues, quick need to adopt and implement technological up-gradation in the process as per the requirements, foreign currency fluctuations, geopolitical disturbances and other related operational challenges. However, with the skills and experience available in the telecommunication segment, it is a well-established fact that the industry raises its bar and continues to deliver stupendous performance and ultimately overcome any type of challenges.

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From The Desk The Future Based on optical fibre’s unmatched capacity to transmit data efficiently, economic development is predicted on national access to robust, futureproof fibre broadband infrastructure networks. While the US, China and Japan have fibre km per capita of 1.34, 1.30 and 1.35 respectively, India trails with 0.09 km per capita, which is only about 7.5 percent of these nations. The US, China and Japan have 85 percent of their cell towers fibreized, while India still lags at about 38 percent. The telecommunication network planning

experts suggest that by 2025-26, at least 75 percent of India’s cell towers will need fibreization for a full scale launch of 5G mobile communication services, requiring an investment in the range of INR 1.5 trillion to INR. 2.5 trillion.

3G or 4G, making small cells a natural fit for 5G roll-out. Each small cell needs to be backhauled through optical fibres, further strengthening the case for the importance of fibreization in the 5G network deployment.

Meanwhile, small cells are emerging as a critical component of the global 5G communication network roll-out strategy, given that most telecom operators are using millimetre wave spectrum, which has higher capacity rates but covers smaller distances.

Thus, radios need to be closer than in

To summarize, there is a tremendous scope for Optical Fibre Cable network deployment in the telecommunication network to catapult the country’s telecom infrastructure into a robust network and for fulfilling our nation’s overall growth target.

M

r. R. Sridharan is an Engineer and has rich experience of more than three decades in the fields of Telecom, Power and LPG industries. He worked in various domains of Projects, Manufacturing, Quality Control & Assurance, Sales, Marketing and Business Development, Finance, Mergers & Acquisitions, HR & Administration, Product Development, Customer Services, etc. He is at present working as Chief Executive Officer of Birla Cable Ltd. and also in Senior Management positions with other M. P. Birla Group of Companies, spearheading its various activities. He is also heading the M. P. Birla Group’s foray into LED Lighting solutions as its CEO.

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STL: Catering the Pressing Needs of Today and Tomorrow

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s the government launches various schemes and initiatives to provide fibre-based broadband access to unconnected citizens, Sterlite Technologies Ltd (STL) predicts exponential growth in the optical fibre sector in 2024-25. On the future of Indian OFC market, Mr. Rahul Puri, its Vice President and General Manager of Europe, the Middle East, India, and Africa (EMEIA) & Asia Pacific (APAC), shares, investments will continue to flow, new technologies will continue to emerge, and competition will increase, potentially leading to even better and more affordable products.

Wire & Cable India: What types of optical fibre cables (OFCs) do you offer, and how do they differ in terms of performance and application?

Mr. Rahul Puri, Vice President and General Manager of Europe, the Middle East, India, and Africa (EMEIA) & Asia Pacific (APAC), STL

Rahul Puri: STL is one of the world’s leading optical and digital solutions providers. Our optic fibre solutions cater to the requirements serving a wide range of applications. Our lower bend loss optical fibre is best suited for enabling high-network performance and significantly lower installation costs. We offer a range of 250um and 200um bend insensitive single mode fibre and non-zero dispersion shifted single mode fibre (NZDSF) solutions suitable for 5G and FTTx applications.

We have really pushed the envelope in fibre optic technology with some exciting innovations that are shaping the future of connectivity. Almost three decades back, we started with one plant in India, and today, we have 10 global production facilities, one of which is in the US. One of the greatest milestones in this journey has been setting up our own glass preform manufacturing - a rare feat in the global optical industry.

adoption. What makes STL unique is its wide product range, including patch cords, fibre termination boxes, joint closures and fibre management systems, all designed for seamless compatibility across various network bandwidths. These bespoke solutions cater to diverse applications, enabling network providers to easily build agile, flexible and high-quality networks.

STL’s optotec devices are particularly notable for their targeted approach, addressing the specific needs of networks and service providers. This makes it easier for companies to scale fibre deployment efficiently. With solutions that cover exchanges, outside plant products (OSPs), distribution and access systems and customer premises products, STL ensures faster and more reliable connectivity. By leveraging these high-quality optotec solutions, service providers can rapidly deploy ultra-fast broadband networks.

STL’s offerings already support global telcos, defence networks, citizen networks and other critical infrastructure providers, making them a highly efficient choice for advanced connectivity.

WCI: What has made them unique in the competition and efficient in applications?

WCI: What state-of-the-art technologies do you use to manufacture them?

RP: STL’s competitive edge lies in its ability to address the increasing data demands through innovative, fibre-deep networks and data centres, which are crucial for faster 5G and Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH)

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RP: We are one of only six companies globally that produce our own glass preforms, which boast a remarkable purity of ~99.99 percent. The level of purity is so high that looking through these glass preforms would allow you

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Optical Fibre Cables to see the bottom of the ocean. These semiconductor-grade glass preforms are made using very high-purity (5N) chemicals. What’s more, they are designed and manufactured in India at our glass plant in Aurangabad, Maharashtra. This facility is India’s first and only advanced clean room glass manufacturing plant. In the realm of optical solutions, quality is paramount and has a cascading effect throughout the value chain. Exceptional glass quality directly impacts the performance of optical fibres and high-quality fibres, in turn, impact the quality of cables. This integrated expertise ensures superior network performance.

WCI: In what sectors do they find their major applications? What more sectors are you eyeing?

RP: STL’s fibre optic cables have major applications in sectors such as 5G networks, telecommunications, defence and smart city infrastructure. Our cables provide solutions for fibre optic networks, including network infrastructure and connectivity for telecom operators. With the help of fibre cables and related infrastructure, we offer high-speed data transmission solutions, which is essential for data centre operations. We offer infrastructure solutions

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for smart city projects, such as intelligent transportation systems, smart grids and urban connectivity. We further provide solutions for enterprise communication networks, including structured cabling and high-performance connectivity. We also supply fibre optic and copper cables for various applications, including in broadband and cable TV networks. Further, our solutions find application in citizen networks for both public and private projects.

The growing demand for AI, IoT, and smart devices has placed a focus on the importance of network infrastructure. Previously operating in the background, network disruptions now have a significant impact on our daily lives. To achieve our technological goals, we need to prioritise the expansion of fibre networks. While initially limited to data centers, fibre networks have expanded to national long-distance networks, metro systems and transportation networks. The next step is to bring fibre to homes and businesses and eventually, to individual rooms and devices. In the near future, fibre networks will also extend into wireless, data centers and private networks, connecting the majority of the world’s population through digital connectivity programs.

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Our multicore multiverse fibre can handle four times the fibre capacity compared to traditional designs. It’s perfect for high-demand environments, where bandwidth and speed are critical.

WCI: What are the latest advancements in fibre optic technology, and how might they benefit the users?

RP: Our multicore multiverse fibre is a game-changer in terms of capacity.

It can handle four times the fibre capacity compared to traditional designs. It’s perfect for high-demand environments, where bandwidth and speed are critical. Those dealing with tight spaces or complex installations rely on StellarTM fibre, the world’s first bend-resilient fibre. It can perform exceptionally well even when bent around corners or in confined spaces.

Plus, it’s fully backward compatible, so you don’t need to worry about upgrading your entire system.

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Optical Fibre Cables We’ve also focused on reducing size without compromising on performance. Our 180-micron and 160-micron fibres are among the slimmest in the world. They have three times more capacity than standard 250-micron fibres, making them ideal for applications needing less and topnotch performance.

Launched in 2020, our range of optical connectivity solutions is all about efficiency and simplicity. We co-design these solutions with top European clients and are now expanding them in the US. They cut installation times, reduce the need for specialised field labour, and are cost-effective due to quicker setup & fewer labour requirements.

Our 864F micro cables can pack 1.5 times more fibres than standard micro cables of the same diameter. This makes them great for high-density installations where space is a concern.

For added protection, our armoured cables feature a jacket that safeguards fibres from moisture and UV damage.

A layer of aramid yarns (Kevlar) boosts tensile strength. They’re built to withstand tougher conditions.

Our celesta ribbon cables come with an intermittently bonded ribbon design, allowing for dense fibre packing in a smaller diameter cable. This design optimizes space and improves duct utilization. Our opto-CRS terminals are perfect for both underground and aerial networks. These ruggedized enclosures are built to handle harsh conditions while keeping the network connections secure. The compact optical ribbon closures (CORC) are custom-designed for use with intermittent bonded ribbon (IBR) cables. They speed up installation by about 25 percent, making them a great choice for quick and efficient setup.

Our pre-terminated and plug-in solutions: opto-blaze and opto-bolt, simplify and expedite the installation process by offering modularity and significantly reducing dependence on field labour. Our AI/ML-based fibre optic sensing solutions are cuttingwww.wirecable.in

edge for network monitoring. They leverage advanced technology to provide real-time insights and ensure optimal network performance.

WCI: How do you view the Indian optic fibre cable market, in terms of growth and product diversification?

WCI: How important is sustainability to your operations?

Elaborate some of the initiatives.

RP: In the future, substantial investments from both private and public sectors are expected to boost the deployment of fibre for 5G towers, small cells and FTTH, to expand global fibre penetration. Governments are dedicated to providing fibre-based broadband access to unconnected citizens through national initiatives.

By fiscal year 2025, the National Broadband Mission aims to fibreise 70 percent of India’s base transceiver station (BTS) to support efficient 5G services. National cooperation is essential to achieve this goal.

RP: It’s embedded in everything we do, from the projects we undertake to the way we manage our environmental impact. For instance, we are actively working towards achieving net zero emissions by 2030. We have made significant strides by aligning with the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), which helps ensure that our targets are scientifically grounded. This is a part of our broader strategy, which also includes pioneering efforts like launching the world’s first third-party accredited eco-labelled methodology in the optical industry.

We’re also focused on waste management and resource conservation. In FY24 alone, our Indian and Italian plants achieved Zero Waste to Landfill (ZWL) and Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) certifications. This means we’re effectively managing waste and recycling a substantial amount of water - about 162,000 cubic meters, significantly reducing our environmental footprint. Additionally, we’ve successfully diverted around 25,000 metric tonnes of waste from landfills.

On the resource conservation front, we’ve made noteworthy efforts to replenish water and enhance green spaces. Our initiatives have led to the replenishment of over 2.69 million cubic meters of water into local communities. Our afforestation efforts have seen us plant approximately 290,000 trees in Aurangabad. We also believe in creating a meaningful impact at the grassroots level. Through our RoboEdge program, we’re equipping young students in Maharashtra and Dadra & Nagar Haveli with advanced STEM skills, including robotics and AI. Additionally, our Jeewan Jyoti program supports women in over 100 villages in Maharashtra by providing them with skills and entrepreneurial opportunities.

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The government plans to expand fibreisation up to 5 million km by FY25, targeting fibreisation for 1.5 million towers. The BharatNet program and the recent INR 65,000 crore tender for BharatNet Phase 3 are expected to substantially increase the size of India’s fibre rollout services market. In addition to the prospects in fibre rollout, we are actively exploring system integration opportunities from various government departments, public sector enterprises and defence sectors.

It now seems that the fibreisation sector is not limited by purpose or capital; it now depends on fast and high-quality deployments. It is evident that AI will profoundly impact all aspects of our lives. However, all of these developments begin at data centres, where GPU-based AI servers are setting new standards for fibre densification. Data centre interconnects will require nearly 5-7 times more fibre to handle the workloads generated by the use of large language models, which are pivotal to artificial intelligence. Looking ahead to 2024-25, the market is expected to grow even more. Investments will continue to flow, new technologies will continue to emerge, and competition will increase, potentially leading to even better and more affordable products. Overall, this is an exciting time for the sector!

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HFCL: Integrating Technology with Innovation for Last Mile Connectivity

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acked by substantial investments in R&D and latest technology, HFCL Limited, India’s leading telecommunications equipment and solutions provider, has launched a range of next-generation OFC solutions tailored for diverse applications and installations, catering to the growing network expansions and bandwidth challenges of its customers. This was revealed by Mr. Harsh Pagay, Executive President - Optical Fibre & Optical Fibre Cable, HFCL, in an exclusive interview with Wire & Cable India.

Wire & Cable India: What types of fibre optic cables do you offer, and how do they differ in terms of performance and application?

What has made them unique in the competition as well as efficient in applications?

Mr. Harsh Pagay, Executive President - Optical Fibre & Optical Fibre Cable, HFCL

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Harsh Pagay: Over the last few years, HFCL has evolved into a technology-driven enterprise with a strong focus on developing cuttingedge, future-ready products. We are advancing a range of next-generation OFC solutions tailored for diverse applications and installations, catering to the growing network expansions and bandwidth challenges of our customers. These next-generation solutions include Intermittent Bonded Ribbon (IBR) Cables, compact 3rd generation micro cables, easy peel micro module cables (wet and dry), high-fibre-count flat ribbon cables in central loose tube and multi loose tube designs in SJSA (single jacket single armored) and dielectric variants, aerial cables for distribution and last mile connectivity in both dielectric and lashed variants with stringent CPR ratings along with variety of other FTTH cables. Most of these cables are designed in multiple variants for different applications, featuring compact designs and higher fibre densities customized to meet consumers’ needs.

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Optical Fibre Cables With digital transformation happening across sectors, HFCL’s cables cater to a wide range of applications in industries like telecom, data centers, FTTH, FTTA, defense, and railways. Our highfibre-count IBR cables are particularly well-suited for data centers, while our rugged armoured cables ensure high durability and performance in demanding environments such as railways, defense, and the oil and gas industries.

Additionally, we focus on developing passive connectivity solutions to complement our fibre optic cables.

We offer a full range of connectivity solutions, including joint closures, FMS, fibre and copper cable assemblies (including CPRI cable assemblies for telecom applications), specialized breakout cables, jumper cables, MPO/MTP cable assemblies for sophisticated data center applications, and pre-connectorized drop cable assemblies for FTTH applications.

HFCL’s competitive edge in passive connectivity solutions lies in a strategic blend of advanced technologies, in-house connectorization, and injection molding capabilities. This, combined with the reliability and costeffectiveness of our comprehensive fibre and copper portfolio, positions us as a preferred partner in India and key global markets for customers seeking high-performance passive components across diverse sectors and applications.

Our leadership in the OFC industry is driven by our R&D efforts, particularly in micro cable designs. Our compact

We are shifting our product base towards greener alternatives. For example, our Optibend portfolio has achieved a 64 percent reduction in Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT) consumption, 30 percent less High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) consumption, and 5 percent less jelly consumption.

144-864F IBR cables, with a record fibre density of 9.5 fibres per millimeter square, allow operators to maximize fibre capacity while minimizing space.

Some of our cables are industry firsts, helping us achieve market leadership in this space. Cables such as the IBR microcable, 288-864F, have won prestigious international awards, including the Cabling Innovators Award, LIGHTWAVE Award, and MERIT Award, for their innovation and technology. HFCL has also received a patent for its ULW 96F cable, with many other applications pending approval, offering the company a first-mover advantage to capitalize on growing demand.

We utilize cutting-edge technologies in manufacturing, including advanced self-designed and specified machinery, stringent quality control processes,

WCI: What are the latest advancements in fibre optic technology, and how might they benefit the users? What state-ofthe-art technologies do you use to manufacture them?

HP: Fibre technology is constantly evolving to address the never-ending network expansion and bandwidth challenges faced by operators. New technologies like multi-core fibre, hollow fibre, and ultra low attenuation fibres are aimed at reducing these challenges significantly. However, these technologies are still in the development phase and will take time to become cost-competitive, as the entire ecosystem around them needs to be built and matured. HFCL is closely analyzing these advancements and building its R&D and manufacturing capabilities to benefit from these technological opportunities, establishing itself as a leader in OFC technology.

To provide quick, cost-competitive solutions (with a turnaround time of 3-6 months), HFCL works closely with its customers and develops innovative OFC solutions that not only ease rollout operations but also offer significant commercial benefits in terms of reduced installation costs per fibre kilometer. HFCL has a proven track record of developing such solutions for tier-1 telecom operators.

Our robust R&D investments allow us to continuously innovate and meet evolving industry demands, enhancing network infrastructure requirements.

We focus on developing indigenous OFC technology solutions, backed by our own intellectual property rights (IPR). We are also strengthening our cost competitiveness through backward integration, as well as

Single-jacket, Single-armor Intermittently Bonded Ribbon (IBR) cable

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and a variety of the latest testing equipment to simulate harsh field environments, ensuring our cables meet the highest international standards. Continuous testing, field simulation, and iterations allow us to upgrade our products for maximum efficiency.

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Optical Fibre Cables automation and digitization of various manufacturing and business processes.

The company has made substantial investments in upgrading and automating with the latest business solutions like SAP and Industry 4.0 automation. These efforts enable HFCL to strengthen its innovation and technology strategy while reducing dependence on external factors. Over time, HFCL has positioned itself as an end-to-end service provider for its customers.

WCI: How closely do you coordinate with your clients when it comes to installation? Do you offer any warranties or guarantees on your fibre optic products and services?

HP: We work closely with our customers to provide comprehensive, end-to-end solutions, ensuring assistance at every stage for optimized performance. HFCL’s commitment goes beyond simply providing optical fibre cables; we also assist with the entire cable management process, from warehousing to distribution, including the disposal and recycling of wooden packaging. Our services include advising customers on the best duct sizes, cable blowing performance, and providing reports certifying blowing distances and speeds. We also guide them on choosing the right passive

connectivity solutions to ensure seamless network integration and the highest level of operational efficiency.

Our optical fibre cables, when installed correctly, have a lifespan of over 25 years, during which they maintain optimal performance. However, these cables may be subject to physical damage, which could affect signal transmission. As a result, we offer a standard warranty of 12 months from installation or up to 18 months from the date of supply, whichever is earlier.

That said, as mentioned, the life expectancy of our OFC is more than 25 years, with no significant degradation in performance.

WCI: How important is sustainability to your operations?

Elaborate some of the initiatives.

HP: Sustainability is not just a priority; it is at the core of our business operations. The global push for environmentally responsible practices has further fueled our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint. We have implemented several initiatives to minimize our environmental impact.

We have a dedicated sustainability team that tracks our progress against defined carbon reduction targets and explores new ways to further reduce our carbon footprint. Beyond our internal efforts, we are also monitoring

We have significantly expanded our optical fibre capacity from 12 million fibre kilometers (fkm) to 33 million fkm, and our optical fibre cable capacity from 25 million fkm to 30 million fkm. our suppliers’ carbon footprint.

We are shifting our product base towards greener alternatives. For example, our Optibend portfolio has achieved a 64 percent reduction in Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT) consumption, 30 percent less High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) consumption, and 5 percent less jelly consumption. We have also replaced plastic packaging with cardboard and increased drum packaging by 40 percent, improving packaging efficiency and cutting emissions during transportation.

Some of our manufacturing plants run on 80-90 percent renewable energy sourced from solar or wind power, and similar efforts are underway at other facilities. We maximize solar energy usage within state regulatory limits. Our plants also have rainwater harvesting systems, and the harvested water is purified for sanitation and gardening purposes. Additionally, we recycle 100 percent of our process water to conserve resources. HFCL has been recognized with prestigious certifications for achieving ‘zero waste to landfills.’

WCI: Please discuss some of the major challenges you often encounter.

HP: Macroeconomic factors such as rising capital costs, inflation, inventory buildup, and continued geopolitical tensions have temporarily impacted the demand for optical fibre cables. The OFC industry is currently

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Optical Fibre Cables seeing a softening in demand across key industries and global markets.

However, we anticipate that the market will begin to recover in the last quarter of the current fiscal year (2024-25).

Another key challenge is the fierce competition and lack of a level playing field due to the dumping of low-quality OFCs by manufacturers benefitting from significant export subsidies from their countries.

Governments worldwide are beginning to recognize this unfair advantage, and anti-dumping duties are being implemented to tackle the issue, ensuring fair competition for players like HFCL, which focuses on long-term customer relationships and fair trade practices.

Despite these challenges, we are optimistic about the growing demand for OFCs driven by projects like BharatNet-III, the expansion of 5G networks, FTTH (Fibre-ToThe-Home) implementations, and the hyper-scaling of data centers globally. In response to the slowdown in optical fibre cable revenue, HFCL has expanded its business in passive connectivity solutions, becoming an end-to-end solution provider for governments, telcos, and enterprises.

WCI: How are you positioned in the market, in terms of market share and production capacity? Where do you see yourself in 2024-25?

HP: HFCL has maintained a leadership position with over 60 percent market

share in the Indian OFC market. We have also successfully established ourselves as a trusted partner in key global markets, including the UK, Europe, the US, the Middle East, and Africa. To meet rising demand, we have significantly expanded our optical fibre capacity from 12 million fibre kilometers (fkm) to 33 million fkm, and our optical fibre cable capacity from 25 million fkm to 30 million fkm.

We are determined to capitalize on global opportunities and boost revenue from international operations. To achieve this, we are actively developing new product portfolios that meet international standards and appointing employees, agents, and distributors in key markets like the UK, US, the Middle East, and Africa.

NEWS

Power Grid Plans Subsea Interconnection with Middle East Worth INR 40,000 Crore Power Grid is holding discussions with Oman, Saudi Arabia and the UAE for interconnection projects. It has a ’pulling station’ near the Arabian Sea in Gujarat’s Bhuj, which will be connected with a similar station on the shores of a Middle East country.

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tate-owned Power Grid is holding discussions with the Middle Eastern countries to invest up to INR 40,000 in undersea interconnection projects.

The central PSU has a ’pulling station’ near the Arabian Sea in Gujarat’s Bhuj, which would be connected with a similar station on the shores of the Middle East country as well, said Mr. R.K. Tyagi, Chairman and Managing Director of Power Grid.

the company has to keep commissioning new projects to have higher revenue growths.

He said a high voltage direct current cable would go from the seabed with a capacity of up to 2,500 MW. The project would entail an investment between INR 35,000-40,000 crore and take up to six years to complete.

He said the company won six out of 10 transmission projects till July. Bids for three projects that were won in the June quarter alone had levelised tariff of INR 4,172 crore.

The country’s leading electric power transmission company was diversifying into other areas as well, including smart meters, data centres, putting up solar power capacities and also green hydrogen. Power Grid won smart meter projects in Gujarat.

Mr. Tyagi said Power Grid was planning to invest INR 18,000 crore this fiscal year, which would help accelerate the growth rate going forward. A bulk 80-85 percent of this amount would be spent on core transmission lines business.

Over 80 percent of the new work would revolve around renewable energy, he added.

It already has a data centre in Manesar and would be looking forward to capacity enhancement in Chennai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad cities, he added.

According to the Power Grid MD, as the projects become older, the earnings from transmission projects go down and www.wirecable.in

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Polycab India: Making India Digital with High-Speed Connectivity Solutions

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s India aims to achieve last mile connectivity, especially in rural areas, Polycab India Limited, a true-blue Make-in-India company with a wealth of experience and expertise, braces up to evolve and grow with various government projects. Mr. Ashish D. Jain, Executive President & COO, Telecom Business, Polycab India Limited, disclosed during an exclusive interaction with Wire & Cable India that the company is continuing expansions in OFC manufacturing capacity, while also setting its eyes on foreign shores.

Wire & Cable India: What motivated you to enter the fibreoptic segment and how are you positioned in this segment?

Mr. Ashish D. Jain, Executive President & COO, Telecom Business, Polycab India Limited

Ashish D. Jain: Digital advances have made a transformative impact on every sphere of daily life, be it business, education, healthcare or government services. The incessantly rising demand for high-speed internet services and dependable communication infrastructure has made fibre-optic deployment a necessity in the rapidly evolving digital era. In the wake of fast infusion of data in people’s lives and increasing reliance of consumers and businesses on bandwidth-intensive applications, manufacturing of optical fibre cables (OFCs) for robust and high-capacity fibre-optic networks was a natural progression for our company, having decades of expertise in making wire and cables.

Today, we’re a leading OFC manufacturer, with a high degree of in-house backward integration and automation capabilities. In a few years’ time, we have diversified to create an OFC-based network and successfully positioned ourselves amongst the top telecom EPC players in India, with one after another successful implementation of large telecom-infra projects. We’ve deployed our OFCs to build OFC-based networks for BharatNet Phase-II projects in Gujarat, Bihar and Tamil Nadu. Furthermore, we’ve continuously been supplying our

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OFCs to our project and consortium partners.

WCI: What types of fibre-optic cables do you cater to and how unique are they in terms of performance and application?

ADJ: We’ve a dedicated and stateof-the-art facility in Halol, Gujarat, which specializes in manufacturing OFCs ranging between 6 cores to 576 cores. We produce single-mode and multi-mode cables with various designs as per customer requirements, like duct cables, micro-duct cables, armoured cables, FTTH, Fig-8, aerial cables, indoor/outdoor cables, ribbon cables, special cables and hybrid cables. Our specialized fibre-optic cabling solutions and accessories, for both indoor and outdoor purposes, are factory-made to the highest standards.

We create fibre-optic assemblies using top quality raw materials.

Our cables can carry the desired capacity of data in a specific network.

Not only cables, each of our products is tested and certified to meet the desired capacity of a specified network in terms of data volume and data speed.

With the recent commissioning of OPGW (Optical Ground Wire) operations, we’ve extended our business to the power transmission industry as well. Diversification to OPGWs reflects our appetite for evolution in offering data and power together.

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Optical Fibre Cables WCI: What state-of-the-art technologies do you use to manufacture them?

ADJ: With globally recognized state-ofthe-art machines, we’ve an integrated facility for OFC manufacturing, wherein we execute a harmonized sequence of processes like colouring, ribbon technology, buffering, stranding and sheathing. UV curable inks are applied on high-grade transparent fibres with the help of our high-tech colouring machines. With the industry-leading competence, we use ribbon technology to arrange cables in various strips.

The process, which is very efficient in managing a large number of fibres in the installations, gets executed by a specially designed machine, the only-ofits-kind in Asia and second in the world.

We have a well-equipped facility to execute buffering or secondary coating process. We perform the stranding process, wherein loose tubes are stranded around a central strength element. A special unit called SZ Oscillator creates an SZ pattern in stranding. Sheathing is done as per the cable specifications. The premium standard compounds like high-density polyethylene, low-smoke zero halogen and nylon PA-12 are used in sheaths for Polycab’s OFCs, giving them exceptional strength and a superior level of protection. We’ve an in-house manufacturing facility for backward integration with FRP, ARP and IGFR Yarns, which empower the cables with armouring and other strength

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members. In OPGW manufacturing, we’ve adopted technological solutions of the highest order to have compact design and intelligent monitoring technology, bringing in enhanced wiring flexibility, high standards of quality control and excellent maintenance efficiency. We’ve invested substantial resources and created infrastructure for R&D.

WCI: In what sectors do they find their major applications? What other sectors are you eyeing?

ADJ: As the Government of India plans to provide last-mile optical fibre-based connectivity to homes in all villages and BharatNet aims to connect 6.4 lakh villages in the country with broadband internet, our OFCs have a promising opportunity for major applications, including manufacturing and deployment. Simultaneously, we’re also eyeing modernization initiatives of Indian Railways like Mission Raftaar and Kavach, emerging FTTH networks and NHAI’s goal to build digital highways across the country. Further, India needs at least 70 percent of the towers to have fibre connectivity to fully capitalize on the comprehensiveness of 5G-based services and we’re upbeat to make the most of the rising demand for 5G-centric fibre-rich infrastructural requirements for backhaul fibreization.

For our OPGWs of 24 to 144 cores, we’re getting demands from the domestic and international power sector. Serving to the large spans

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between towers, our OPGWs are fit for installation for longer lengths, including over rivers.

WCI: What are the latest advancements in fibre-optic technology and how might they benefit the users?

ADJ: With technological advancements like Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) and Coherent Detection Techniques, fibre optic transmission has catapulted to unimaginable speeds. Manufacturing of smaller & lighter cables with higher fibre counts and enabling higher data transmission capabilities is a major trend in the industry. Micro-duct cables are being used globally, as they are easy to install and can be blown into ducts. With the new air-blown micro-cable technology, fibre optic installers are capitalizing on lower installation costs and improved construction efficiency.

Innovations in materials and manufacturing processes have made OFC-based systems increasingly healthy, resilient and reliable, offering greater resistance to environmental factors, substantially diminishing signal degradation and improving the level of fault tolerance by several notches. High-density fibre optic cables and connectors have come to the fore in response to the rising demands of users for higher bandwidth and scalability. All the innovations lead us to higher speed of communication with reliability.

Jul-Aug, 2024

Optical Fibre Cables approximate annual production of 100 million fibre kms.

With a special emphasis on growing investments in OFC network infrastructure from the Indian government, our country continues to be one of the leading manufacturers and exporters of OFCs in the world.

As consumption of data is rising by the day, there is a growing urge to have its super-fast and dependable availability.

Fibre-deployment in our country is the most crucial part to the new and evolving hybrid & remote working culture, and the 5G story. Last mile connectivity has become a more significant currency for evolving networks, which is why OFCs and accessories have a growing market in India.

BharatNet, world’s largest rural broadband project, is continuously engaged in fibreization, creating connectivity based on high-quality OFCs throughout the country. The project aims to spend a whopping INR 1.39 lakh crore in its Phase III to expand and enhance India’s rural internet connectivity, which would give a boost to the entire ecosystem of the Indian wire and cable industry with massive job opportunities. As a trueblue Make-in-India company with a wealth of experience and expertise, we’re keyed up to capitalize on our large network of partners and consortiums to work on various Digital India projects and find a strong growth for ourselves in the evolving scheme of things.

WCI: How important is sustainability to your operations? Elaborate some of the initiatives.

ADJ: Sustainability has always been integral to our operations. Use of sustainable materials, redesigning of cables, energy-efficiency and responsible water management has been the core of our OFC manufacturing. We always look for optimized transportation logistics to keep a check on carbon emissions as much as we can.

WCI: Please discuss some of the major challenges you have been experiencing.

ADJ: Challenges are part and parcel of our field. But knowing that OFCs now are almost the mainstay of our country’s digital economy, we strive hard to win over challenges. Devious trade practices remain one of the major challenges in the OFC industry. Several foreign players are frequently dumping low-quality fibre at predatory prices in the Indian market.

Further, high equipment costs continue to play a key deterrent for manufacturers to go for huge expansion. Lack of quality resources, shortage of vendors & contractors and the scarcity of skilled manpower are other challenges we face in the manufacturing and deployment of OFCs.

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WCI: How are you positioned, in terms of market share and production capacity?

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ADJ: We’ve continued expansion in our OFC manufacturing capacity to meet the growing demands under BSNL’s BharatNet Phase III, SPV-run BharatNet Phase III and other upcoming projects. We’ve continued export of OFCs and FRP rods, ARP rods and IGFR yarns in diverse customizations to meet the specific needs of our global clients.

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WCI: How do you view the Indian OFC market in terms of growth and product diversification? Where do you see yourself in 2024-25?

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ADJ: Aligned with the grand vision of our Prime Minister Narendra Modiji, we’re making rapid strides to take broadband connectivity to the remotest villages of the country. In the growing Digital India story, ‘Achhe Din’ for OFC manufacturers are on the anvil for sure. India has an www.wirecable.in

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Optical Fibre Cables

Finolex Cables: Connecting India with Comprehensive, High-Quality Network Solutions

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eading manufacturer of optical fibre cables in India, Finolex Cables, is committed to providing innovative communication products and latest technologies in optical fibre field like FTTH, armoured, unarmoured, aerial, ADSS, ribbon, spiral armoured, and simplex/duplex cables. Mr. Sunil Upmanyu, President – Operations, Finolex Cables Limited, revealed during an exclusive interview with Wire & Cable India that the company looked forward to expanding its presence in data centres, microduct cables, higher fibre count ribbon cables with intermittently bonded ribbon technology, rural telephony, sensing, and perimeter detection systems.

Wire & Cable India: What types of fibre optic cables do you offer, and how do they differ in terms of performance and application?

Mr. Sunil Upmanyu, President – Operations, Finolex Cables Limited

Sunil Upmanyu: As a comprehensive cable solutions provider, we manufacture a wide range of optical fibre cables (OFCs) at our two plants located in Goa and Maharashtra, products of which are certified by Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecommunication Equipment (MTCTE). Our product portfolio includes designs such as direct burial cables with corrugated steel tape armoring, suitable for telecom, highways, and utility sectors. We also produce wire armoured cables, featuring either steel or plastic tubes, designed for rugged applications, including use in challenging terrains like river crossings. Additionally, we specialise in developing and supplying IGFR (impregnated glass fibre) armoured cables, which are nonmetallic and widely used by leading telecom operators.

For urban areas, our unarmoured duct cables are preferred by telecom companies and contractors where cables are laid inside ducts. We also produce high-capacity ribbon optical fibre cables in both armoured and unarmoured designs, with capacities of up to 1728 fibres, catering to data

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centres and the telecom sector. In regions with difficult terrain, such as hilly areas or river crossings, we manufacture aerial cables with various properties, including anti-tracking for power lines and ADSS cables with antibird bite features.

We also produce simplex & duplex cables for patch cords used in data centres, adhering to global standards.

Our spiral armoured cables meet the needs of tower fibreisation, and our optical fibre cables are approved by all major telecom operators for the Fibreto-the-Antenna (FTTA) applications.

Furthermore, we manufacture and export microduct cables to various international markets.

All our designs can be customised to meet specific requirements such as high tensile strength, anti-termite and anti-rodent properties. We also have expertise in manufacturing riser cables and various dry & wet designs for industries such as nuclear plants, oil refineries and pipeline projects.

Our diversified portfolio serves telecom operators, utility providers, infrastructure companies, tower firms, data centres and system integrators.

WCI: What makes your fibre optic cables unique and efficient in their applications?

SU: The Finolex brand is synonymous

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Optical Fibre Cables with quality. Our plants benefit from the backward integration of key raw materials like glass roving and FRP (fibreglass reinforced plastic), which helps us in maintaining high-quality standards while also offering competitive pricing and timely delivery. We produce our own optical fibre, which is MTCTE/ CACT-approved and well-accepted by all telecom operators. Our product range includes low-loss G652D fibres for long-haul and NLD networks, as well as bend-insensitive G657A1 and G657A2 fibres, along with 200-micron low-loss fibres for micro duct cables, meeting the needs of FTTH (fibre to the home) and last-mile applications.

WCI: What state-of-the-art technologies do you use in manufacturing your fibre optic cables?

SU: Our plants are certified with multiple ISO standards, including TL 9000 and ISO 9001, ensuring that our cables are manufactured according to the highest global standards and practices. We use advanced machinery sourced from top global suppliers to produce optical fibre and optical fibre cables that fully comply with customer specifications. For preform manufacturing, we have adopted the Vapour Axial Deposition (VAD) process, a technology commonly used by leading Japanese fibre optic companies. Currently, we are the only company in India using this state-of-the-art technology for mass production of single-mode low-loss bend-insensitive optical fibres.

WCI: In what sectors do your fibre optic cables find major applications, and what additional sectors are you targeting?

SU: Our fibre optic cables serve a wide range of sectors, including telecommunications, internet service providers, infrastructure, highways, railways, oil & gas, power, defence, control and automation, and any other sector requiring reliable communication solutions. Looking ahead, we aim to expand our presence

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in data centres, microduct cables, higher fibre count ribbon cables with intermittently bonded ribbon technology, rural telephony, sensing, and perimeter detection systems.

WCI: How do you coordinate with clients during installation, and what challenges do you encounter?

SU: We have launched a new vertical offering optical fibre cable installation services to provide our customers with end-to-end solutions. We have begun operations in a few states and are focusing on gaining strength and experience in this new venture. Our commitment to quality has earned us the status of a key deployment partner with one of India’s leading telecom operators. We are also exploring the use of the latest technologies in fibre optic laying and deployment, similar to those used in developed countries.

WCI: Do you offer any warranties or guarantees on your fibre optic products and services?

SU: We take pride in maintaining a track record of zero complaints related to optical fibres over the past 20 years. Most complaints we receive are typically due to transportation damage or improper handling. We use only the best and virgin raw materials, which result in negligible complaints.

Nevertheless, we offer warranties covering manufacturing defects and also provide defect liability for our service offerings, particularly in the EPC segment.

WCI: What are the latest advancements in fibre optic technology, and how do they benefit users?

SU: Recent advancements in fibre optic technology include the development of 200-micron fibres, which are smaller than the standard 250-micron fibres, offering enhanced performance and space savings. Additionally, bendinsensitive and low-loss fibres are gaining traction. Other innovations include combining G652D and G657A1 fibres, along with large MFD G657A2 fibres and intermittent bonded flexible

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Recent advancements in fibre optic technology include the development of 200-micron fibres, which are smaller than the standard 250-micron fibres, offering enhanced performance and space savings. ribbons. Multi-core fibres are also being developed globally, which will enable higher fibre counts, space efficiency and increased data-carrying capacity.

WCI: How important is sustainability to your operations, and what initiatives have you undertaken?

SU: At Finolex, quality is integral to our operations. We have a 5 MW solar power plant dedicated to captive consumption, allowing us to produce optical fibres and optical fibre cables at our Urse plant in Maharashtra using green energy. This initiative also benefits our customers by contributing to their sustainability goals. All our plants are ISO 14001:2015 certified for environmental management systems.

To reduce wood consumption, we supply OF cables in coils wherever possible. Our packing materials are made of polyethene bags used with a minimum thickness of more than 50 microns and are recyclable. We also reuse spools and packing materials for optical fibre spools to minimise plastic and paper usage.

WCI: What are the major challenges you frequently encounter?

SU: Everyone is aware that the global supply chain disruptions caused by geopolitical factors, including currency fluctuations and shifts in raw material prices, present significant challenges.

Additionally, frequent changes in demand across various segments

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WCI: How are you positioned in the market in terms of market share and production capacity?

WCI: How do you view the Indian optical fibre cable market in terms of growth and product diversification, and what is your outlook for 2024-25?

SU: Finolex is one of the few companies in India with its own preform manufacturing facility, marking a significant step in backward integration. We are among the top four optical fibre cable suppliers in India in terms of market share and production capacity. Our products are recognised for their high quality and reliability, making us a trusted supplier for all

SU: The optical fibre cable market in India holds great growth potential, particularly with the increasing demand for data-driven by the implementation of 5G and the need for tower fibreisation, which is currently among the lowest in the world. A significant growth driver is

the government’s initiative to provide digital connectivity in rural areas. For instance, BSNL has issued a tender under the BharatNet project for middle-mile network connectivity, requiring over 10 lakh kilometres of cables in the next three years.

Additionally, the rising number of data centres across the country is expected to further drive demand. Despite the ongoing consolidation and challenges in the Indian OFC market, we are on a growth trajectory due to our strengths and capabilities.

NEWS

STL Introduces Optical Connectivity Portfolio for the US Market

Armed with the ability to deliver both advanced optical fiber cable and optical connectivity products, STL aims to deliver robust, integrated capabilities tailored to the US customers for their FTTx needs.

Aug 6, 2024

OptoBlaze, Multiport Service Terminal, and OptoBolt preconnectorized drop cables – Already deployed by US providers like Lumos Networks and Archtop Fiber. They enhance network modularity, reduce installation time, and lower connection costs.

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TL, a leading optical and digital solutions company, has announced the expansion of its optical networking capability with the addition of its optical connectivity portfolio in the US market.

As per a release issued by STL, the move marks a pivotal step in delivering robust, integrated optical capabilities tailored to the US customers for their FTTx needs. Armed with the ability to deliver both advanced optical fiber cable and optical connectivity products, the company aims to strategically serve its customer base of nearly 50 clients in the US region.

OptoPull – A pullable field-installed pre-connectorized drop cable.

OptoPod – A flexible multiport service terminal that is a pre-connectorized plug-and-play solution tailored for fast and easy network connections in space-constrained environments.

STL’s optical connectivity portfolio, designed with the ethos of a deep understanding of networking needs, ease of installation and future-readiness, will enable its customers to “Connect with Confidence” and be at the leading edge of design excellence in deployments.

OptoPed – A performance-enhancing distribution system with optical pedestals designed and tested to withstand the harshest environmental conditions.

With this integrated capability and a team of 200 STLers at its North American headquarters in South Carolina, STL is bringing its commitment to connect America to life.

Commenting on STL’s Optical Connectivity portfolio, Mr. Ankit Agarwal, Managing Director, STL, said: “STL’s optical connectivity products deliver unparalleled value to our customers by leveraging its integrated capabilities across the optical value chain. Meticulously crafted around customers’ needs, this optical connectivity portfolio will enable our customers to unlock the ease of installation, future readiness and superlative network performance. The introduction of this portfolio is another step forward in our effort to connect America.

STL’s optical connectivity products enhance fiber connectivity to the premise level with scalable, easy-toinstall solutions that accelerate deployment. Engineered with keeping customers in mind, they are tested for US customers and designed for easy installation, maintenance, and operation. These solutions are future-ready and suitable to adapt to tomorrow’s technological advancements. Some of these solutions include:

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Jul-Aug, 2024

Optical Fibre Cables

West Coast Optilinks: Connecting the Future through Digital Infrastructure Wire & Cable India: What types of fibre optic cables do you offer, and how do they differ in terms of performance and application?

Pramod Kumar Srivastava: West Coast Optilinks (WCO) offers a variety of fibre optic cable products customized for different applications, installation requirements and unique industry needs.

It includes single-mode and multi-mode fibres for different transmission distances; armored, unarmoured, micro & aerial cables for specific installation needs; and customized hybrid cables for specific applications. The demand for these cables depends on specific requirements of the application such as distance, environment, protection requirement, precision and bandwidth needs.

WCI: What has made them unique in the competition as well as in application efficiency? What stateof-the-art technologies do you use to manufacture them?

Mr. Pramod Kumar Srivastava, CEO, West Coast Optilinks

W

est Coast Optilinks, a leading provider of high-performance optical fibre solutions for telecommunications, broadband , utilities and data centers is focused on driving innovation and delivering customised solutions for next-generation networks. The company continues to expand its market presence by delivering customozed solutions for various applications requiring high speed connectivity.

This was revealed by Mr. Pramod Kumar Srivastava, CEO, West Coast Optilinks, during an exclusive interaction with Wire & Cable India.

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PKS: The uniqueness of our products comes from the customization we do for each of our customers to meet their specific applications and our ability to quickly adapt the manufacturing processes to meet stringent quality standards. As an organization, we focus on understanding customer applications and if that means going to the clients for first-hand understanding of their specific application needs, we do it on priority. We take in a lot of positive feedback with the ultimate goal of making our customers build a resilient and reliable digital infrastructure. Success of our customers is at the core of all our actions. Our manufacturing infrastructure and process is based on the latest technology to produce optical fibre cables (OFCs). We are also building a state-of-theart optical fibre draw facility at Hyderabad

Jul-Aug, 2024

Optical Fibre Cables using the latest technology, which is expected to become operational soon.

WCI: In what sectors do they find their major applications? What more sectors are you eyeing?

PKS: Our products find application in many sectors, such as telecommunications, utilities, data centres, smart cities, defence and other segments requiring highspeed data connectivity. Additional applications include healthcare, industrial automation, smart cities and intelligent transportation systems.

Looking ahead, we may explore emerging sectors that require a robust fibre infrastructure for high-volume data like renewable energy, smart homes, security and surveillance.

Other potential areas of growth could be Internet of Things (IoT), AI and autonomous vehicles, all of which depend on reliable and high-speed data transmission provided by fibre optic technology.

WCI: How closely do you coordinate with your clients when it comes to installation?

What challenges do you often experience?

PKS: Our OFCs are designed and manufactured keeping in mind specific application needs, deployment practices, ease of deployment and efficient O&M of the network. We have a dedicated team of experts which understands these requirements in detail and works closely to support our customers in need. On-ground challenges are one of the biggest we face in the OFC segment, along with lack of skilled manpower for deployment. These impact the quality and speed of the network being built, and also poses problems in its maintenance with minimum cuts.

WCO has built an EPC team to build OFC networks for our customers. Our EPC work starts with coordination at the pre-installation stage, where the team conducts in-depth consultations to understand the client’s needs, including the cable type, technical specifications and environmental www.wirecable.in

With a new OFC factory at Hyderabad, which is fully operational, we have already doubled our OFC capacity. conditions of the installation site.

The next stage involves site surveys and detailed planning. This includes on-site surveys to identify potential challenges. Despite careful planning, on-field challenges do pop up. By focusing on communication and pre-emptive problem-solving, WCO overcomes these challenges, ensuring an efficient delivery of fibre optic installations and meeting client expectations. This client-centric approach is key to maintaining high network standards and project success.

WCI: What are the latest advancements in fibre optic technology, and how might they benefit the users?

PKS: Though optical fibre technologies have matured quite a bit, at the same time, there is a continuous shift in the way data is transmitted and the requirement of faster, more reliable and efficient solutions. These ever-changing needs, coupled with how installation happens in reality on-field, is driving innovations in the fibre optics space. For example, bend-insensitive fibres help in better management of losses in installation & during O&M practices on ground.

WCI: How important is sustainability to your operations?

Elaborate some of the initiatives.

PKS: Sustainability is a core focus in the operations of WCO as the company recognizes its responsibility to minimize environmental impact while maintaining highperformance standards in fibre optic production. Some of the initiatives undertaken include energy-efficient manufacturing, waste reduction & recycling, sustainable supply chain,

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reduction of waste to landfills, etc.

Efforts are on to enhance renewable energy sources into our operations and work towards carbon neutrality. These sustainability initiatives are core to our business model.

WCI: Please give insights about the optical fibre industry in India.

PKS: The optical fibre industry in general has been going through a slowdown for the past several quarters.

India is a unique telecom market where post consolidation, there are only four telecom operators. Investment by telecom operators has been slow for the last few quarters and fibre deployment for mass roll out of the 5G network is yet to happen. Raw material price fluctuations, coupled with logistical challenges due to geopolitical issues, are putting a lot of pressure on cost of products. While large buyers prefer to keep fixed prices for longer period/project durations, such uncertainty in input prices poses challenges to meet the cost and impacts margins significantly.

WCI: How are you positioned in the market in terms of market share and production capacity?

PKS: WCO is positioned as a key player in the fibre optic cable manufacturing sector with a growing reputation for delivering high-quality and reliable products across various industries. We have a strong presence in India, particularly in sectors such as telecommunications, railways, utilities and other infrastructure segments. WCO is further positioned as a competitive and reliable supplier for emerging markets like 5G and IoT infrastructures. We are consolidating our position in the overseas market as long term reliable partners to digital infrastructure providers and telecom service providers. With a new OFC factory at Hyderabad, which is fully operational, we have already doubled our OFC capacity. Our new facility at Hyderabad is scalable in a very short time in case of need as most of the basic infrastructure and utilities are already in place.

Jul-Aug, 2024

Optical Fibre Cables WCI: How do you view the Indian optic fibre cable market in terms of growth and product diversification? Where do you see yourself in 2024-25?

abled using optical fibre technology.

The growth of smart cities and IoT also necessitates advanced fibre optic solutions for seamless connectivity and data transfer.

PKS: The Indian optical fibre cable market is poised for robust growth, driven by multiple initiatives in telecommunications and data connectivity.

There is an increasing penetration of the internet across urban & rural areas and government initiatives to enhance digital connectivity. Programs like BharatNet should create a substantial market for optical fibre cables as they form the backbone of an expanded digital network. Furthermore, innovations in optical technology in active space as well as advanced fibre materials are pushing the boundaries of performance and capacity of the network. OFCs are finding increasing applications in emerging sectors like data centers, which require high-speed and reliable connections to be en-

Looking ahead in 2024-25, the Indian optical fibre cable market should

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recover. Some of the drivers for this recovery will be renewed focus on 5G network deployment, public sector investments in digital infrastructure, etc. We at WCO are aiming to be a significant player in the market to maximize business from these investments in digital infrastructure.

Jul-Aug, 2024

Optical Fibre Cables

Orient Cables: Energizing Digital India with High-Speed Connectivity & Trust

O

rient Cables, a leading manufacturer and exporter of an extensive range of cables, has built an unparalleled reputation and acceptance in both Indian and global markets, owing to its highquality products and innovative end-to-end connectivity solutions. This was revealed by Mr. Vipul Nagpal, Founder and Managing Director, Orient Cables India, during his exclusive interview with Wire & Cable India.

Wire & Cable India: What motivated you to enter the optic fibre segment?

Mr. Vipul Nagpal, Founder and Managing Director, Orient Cables India

Vipul Nagpal: A growing demand for high-speed internet and data transmission, coupled with increasing adoption of cloud computing, IoT, and smart technologies, along with environmental benefits such as lower energy consumption, are some of the factors which contribute to the attractiveness of the optical fibre cable segment, driving companies and innovators to explore opportunities in this field. The need for a reliable, highcapacity and secure communication network has got a big push from the government, which has introduced a slew of schemes and initiatives to increase investments in digital infrastructure.

WCI: Please tell us more about your fibre optic cables in terms of performance, the state-ofthe-art technologies you use to manufacture them and the sectors where they find application.

VN: We manufacture unarmoured/ armoured cables in both SM & MM for duct and underground applications, ADSS cables for aerial application, FTTH cables, simplex/duplex patch cord cables, and CATV cables for local cable operators. Generally, there are four main processes of cable manufacturing, which involve colouring, buffering, stranding and sheathing. We have the latest machines to manufacture high accuracy cables through these processes, which are

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also equipped with a high-functioning laboratory for testing purposes. Our cables find application in telecom, healthcare and defence sectors. The IT sector is going to be a major segment in future to use OFCs.

WCI: What are the latest advancements in fibre optic technology? How do they benefit the users?

VN: The latest advancements in the fibre optic technology are transforming the way we communicate and access information. Researchers have achieved remarkable improvements in the fibre optic transmission speeds, enabling faster data transfer rates. This means quicker downloads, seamless video streaming, and efficient data exchange. New cable designs allow for more fibres in smaller spaces, increasing network capacity and scalability. This is crucial for meeting growing bandwidth demands.

Advancements in materials and manufacturing processes have made fibre optic systems more robust and resistant to environmental factors.

This ensures consistent and reliable connectivity. Fibre optic cables are difficult to tap, making them a secure choice for data transmission.

This is particularly important for sensitive information and high-stakes communications. Users can look forward to faster internet speeds, improved network reliability & scalability, and enhanced security.

WCI: How important is

Jul-Aug, 2024

Optical Fibre Cables yourself in 2024-25?

sustainability to your operations?

Elaborate some of the initiatives.

VN: Sustainability is very crucial to our operations, as the industry has a significant environmental impact. We have implemented energy-efficient manufacturing processes, LED lighting and renewable energy sources, zero-wasteto-landfill policies and water-saving measures in manufacturing processes to reduce carbon footprint, packaging waste and energy consumption, as well as ensure scrap management. We ensure responsible sourcing of raw materials such as fibre. We have obtained certifications like ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) and comply with environmental regulations. Orient promotes adoption of sustainable practices by both its employees and suppliers through a variety of initiatives. We also encourage other cable manufacturers to adopt these measures and contribute to a sustainable future.

WCI: Please discuss some of the major challenges you have been experiencing in the industry.

VN: As a leading manufacturer and exporter of an extensive range of cables, we face a variety of challenges,

such as meeting the exponential growth in global bandwidth demand while maintaining quality of products and reducing production costs. While reducing production costs, we have to ensure consistent and high-quality of our products that meet stringent industry standards, regulations and certifications. Managing global supply chains, lead times and inventory levels amid fluctuating prices and supply chain disruptions for critical materials is a big task. Besides, there is intense competition from established players and new entrants, leading to price pressure and market share erosion.

To stay ahead of our competitors, we keep pace with rapid technological evolution, such as transitioning to 5G, 6G and quantum computing.

WCI: How do you view the Indian optic fibre cable market in terms of growth and product diversification? How do you see

VN: The Indian optic fibre cable market is poised for significant growth, driven by increasing demand for highspeed data transmission, government initiatives like Digital India, and the rollout of 5G networks. The Indian government’s investments in optical fibre cable network infrastructure, such as the BharatNet, Smart Cities Vision and Digital India are expected to fuel growth. Growing demand from IT and telecom sectors, increasing mobile devices, and adoption of FTTH (Fibre-to-the-Home) connectivity are also driving factors for the industry.

Fibre optic cables are deployed in various environments, meeting diverse infrastructure needs like underground, underwater and aerial deployment. We also anticipate widespread adoption of fibre optic cables in IT, telecom, government and other sectors.

Overall, the Indian optic fibre cable market presents promising growth opportunities, driven by government initiatives, rising demand, and technological advancements. As the market continues to evolve, we can expect increased adoption, innovation and expansion in the coming years.

NEWS

STL, Netomnia to Develop Full-Fibre Network in UK Aug 7, 2024

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eading optical and digital solutions company STL has announced extension of its partnership with Netomnia, one of the fastest-growing network operators in the UK. STL has been a trusted partner for Netomnia for the past five years. STL has deployed 12000 ckm of optical fibre cable, spanning 850,000 premises till now, helping Netomnia enable reliable connectivity for hard-to-reach, underserved communities in the region.

STL’s G.657 A2 multitube micro optical fibre cables are designed for blowing into micro ducts previously installed into large ducts, thereby reducing installation costs. Built on an optimized design, its ultra-lightweight aerial cables are tailor-made for duct/overhead applications for efficient and reliable fibre deployments. All these products are supplemented with STL’s unique approach of smart, techled fibre deployment, which is again designed to get more speed and efficiency into each home passed.

A release issued by STL said Netomnia, with the sixth largest network and the third fastest build rate, is building ultra-fast broadband networks in all four UK countries at a rate of 500,000 homes and businesses per year, with ambitions of reaching 2 million premises by 2025.

With nearly two decades of experience in the region, two plants in Italy and a strong ethos of co-creation with its customers, STL is catering to Netomnia’s need for fast rollouts and high-performance networks.

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To deliver Netomnia’s requirements, STL is leveraging its glass to gigabit connectivity capability, which starts from glass preform, fibre & cable, and extends to optical connectivity & smart fibre deployment solutions.

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Systematic Group: Fulfilling India’s Fast Data Transmission Needs with Innovative Technology

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s India makes big strides in digitalization, Systematic Group, with its cutting-edge technology and top-notch connectivity solutions, braces up to fulfill the nation’s demands for high-speed and reliable data transmission. After making a successful foray in the fibre optic cable segment, the company is looking forward to exploring opportunities in emerging sectors like smart cities, renewable energy, healthcare and the EdTech sectors.

This was revealed by Mr. Sidharth Agrawal, Managing Director of Systematic Group, in an exclusive interview with Wire & Cable India.

Wire & Cable India: What motivated you to enter the optic fibre segment?

Sidharth Agrawal: India’s rapid growth and increasing demand for fast data transmission are driving the need for advanced communication networks. Optical Fibre Cables (OFC) are set to play a crucial role in building a robust and converged telecommunications network that meets the demands of wired broadband and future-ready 5G applications. We recognized the transformative potential of fibre optics in enabling faster and more reliable data transmission across various industries. The rapid growth of digital communication and the increasing demand for high-speed internet access were key motivators for entering the optic fibre segment.

We can take the example of the recent tender of BSNL BharatNet Phase 3 project, valued at INR 1.4 lakh crore, which aims to extend high-speed internet connectivity to rural areas by upgrading existing infrastructure in 164,000 gram panchayats and connecting an additional 47,000 gram panchayats, covering a substantial portion of India’s rural landscape. Our facility, which has already been approved from TSEC by BSNL, positions us perfectly to contribute to this monumental initiative. Additionally, our commitment to staying at the forefront of technological

Mr. Sidharth Agrawal, Managing Director of Systematic Group

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We received a tender of BSNL BharatNet Phase 3 project, valued at INR 1.4 lakh crore, which aims to extend high-speed internet connectivity to rural areas by upgrading existing infrastructure in 164,000 gram panchayats and connecting an additional 47,000 gram panchayats. advancements drove us to invest in this sector, ensuring we contribute to the global shift towards more connected and smarter infrastructures.

WCI: What types of fibre optic cables do you cater to, and how unique are they in terms of performance & application?

SA: We cater to a wide range of fibre optic cables, including single-mode and multi-mode fibres, each designed to meet specific performance criteria and application needs. These include armoured/unnarmoured dust cable with unitube and multitube options, micro cables with unitube and multitube options, ADSS (AllDielectric Self-Supporting) cable with single sheath and double sheath options, aerial cable with unitube and multitube options, and CATV

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cables. Our cables are unique in their enhanced durability, flexibility, and optimized signal transmission capabilities, which are crucial for high-performance environments.

They are engineered to excel in various applications, from telecommunications and broadband networks to industrial automation and data centres, ensuring reliable and high-speed connectivity.

WCI: What state-of-the-art technologies do you use to manufacture them?

SA: We employ advanced technologies integration across various stages of production, along with complete in-house quality control & testing facility and high-pressure extrusion in our manufacturing processes.

These technologies ensure the highest levels of accuracy and consistency in our products. Additionally, our continuous investment in research and development allows us to incorporate the latest innovations in materials science and engineering, further enhancing the quality and performance of our fibre optic cables.

WCI: In what sectors do they find their major applications? What other sectors are you eyeing?

SA: Our fibre optic cables are primarily used in telecommunications, data centres, and industrial automation sectors. These cables are critical in supporting the backbone of modern communication networks and the Internet of Things (IoT). We are also exploring opportunities in emerging

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sectors like smart cities, renewable energy, healthcare and the EdTech sectors where high-speed and reliable data transmission is becoming increasingly essential.

WCI: What are the latest advancements in fibre optic technology, and how can they benefit the users?

SA: Recent advancements include the development of bend-insensitive fibres, which maintain performance even in tight spaces, and the integration of AI-driven network management systems that optimize data flow and reduce downtime. These innovations benefit users by providing more reliable, faster and cost-effective connectivity solutions, which are crucial in today’s data-driven world.

WCI: How important is sustainability to your operations?

Elaborate some of the initiatives.

SA: At Systematic, sustainability is at the core of our operations and long-term strategy. We firmly believe that responsible growth and environmental safekeeping go hand in hand. To this end, over 30 percent of our manufacturing land is dedicated to green zone gardens, showcasing our commitment to preserving and enhancing natural spaces. Our dedication to sustainability is further demonstrated through significant investments in solar energy infrastructure, which not only reduces our carbon footprint but also supports renewable energy. In

Jul-Aug, 2024

Optical Fibre Cables addition, our rainwater harvesting initiatives are designed to conserve water resources, aligning with our goal to operate in an eco-friendly manner.

These initiatives are not just about compliance, they are integral to our mission to minimize environmental impact while contributing to a greener and more sustainable future. We are continuously exploring new ways to enhance our sustainability practices, ensuring that our growth is both

responsible and respectful of the environment.

WCI: Please discuss some of the major challenges you have been experiencing.

SA: One of the major challenges has been the volatility in raw material prices, which impacts production costs. Additionally, in mature markets, the OFC sector is becoming increasingly saturated, with numerous

players offering similar products. This intense competition leads to price wars, which can erode profit margins.

Also, the rapid pace of technological change requires constant adaptation and investment in new technologies to stay competitive. Supply chain disruptions, particularly during global crises, also pose significant challenges in maintaining steady production and timely delivery.

WCI: How are you positioned, in terms of market share and production capacity?

SA: We hold a strong position in the market, with a significant share in both the domestic and international fibre optic cable markets. Our production capacity is robust, supported by stateof-the-art manufacturing facilities and a highly skilled workforce. This allows us to meet the growing demand for fibre optic cables efficiently and maintain our competitive edge.

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Rosendahl Nextrom: Where Innovation Never Stops Rosendahl Nextrom is ‘the only company in the world to offer a complete manufacturing value chain for optical fibre and cable production’. It also provides the world’s most advanced technology for copper data cables to meet new data center requirements. “We are developing solutions for producing large optical fibre preforms using vacuum sintering to enhance cost efficiency and reduce dependency on helium, a volatile commodity,” Mr. Pankaj Priyadarshi, its Global Director, Business Development – Fibre Optics, Managing Director - India informs Wire & Cable India in an exclusive interview.

Wire & Cable India: How do you view the global and Indian fibre optic cable market, in terms of growth and product diversification?

Where do you see yourself in 2024-25?

Pankaj Priyadarshi: Despite current headwinds in the global telecom fibre landscape, we are optimistic about the long-term potential of optical fibre deployment in India and globally. There is a lot of interest in how the requirements will change with the large-scale adoption of AI. In particular, we are seeing high interest in specialty fibre and data centre solutions. Our focus for 2024-25 continues to be on addressing these new needs, while also further developing cost-effective manufacturing solutions for the optical fibre industry.

WCI: How do you see the quality adherence practices in India as compared to other parts of the world?

Mr. Pankaj Priyadarshi, Global Director, Business Development – Fibre Optics, Managing Director - India, Rosendahl Nextrom

PP: Looking at the imbalance between optical fibre and cable capacity in India versus domestic consumption, we observe a healthy effort from key Indian players to offer higher-quality products with attractive features to gain access to overseas markets. The competitive landscape is becoming increasingly global. Naturally, quality (or the lack of it) directly impacts cost competitiveness, and this is well understood by Indian players, who continue to challenge equipment makers, such as Rosendahl Nextrom, to consistently improve our technology.

WCI: Cast some light on the infrastructure at your facility.

PP: Rosendahl Nextrom is the only company in the world to offer a complete manufacturing value chain for optical fibre and cable production - from glass preforms to fibre drawing, testing, coloring, to the finished cable. We also provide the world’s most advanced technology for copper data cables to meet

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Optical Fibre Cables new data center requirements. Additionally, we are global leaders in the full range of specialty fibres. Our machines are tailor-made in Europe, with all critical components produced in-house.

We have highly capable design, manufacturing and testing facilities in Finland, Austria and Romania.

We allocate significant resources to research and development, with our fully equipped laboratories in Vantaa, Finland and Pischelsdorf, Austria, always operating at full capacity.

Earlier this year, we installed a brandnew loose tube line in Austria, which is equipped with many new and improved features. We are particularly happy to expand this infrastructure to our customers and partners for test runs and material trials.

WCI: Kindly highlight any innovative or cutting-edge technologies you’re developing or exploring for fibre optic applications.

PP: We are developing solutions for producing large optical fibre preforms

using vacuum sintering to enhance cost efficiency and reduce dependency on helium, a volatile commodity.

Additionally, we are continuously advancing fibre drawing and testing machines to boost productivity. In collaboration with global leaders, we are working on various specialty fibre applications. Our manufacturing solutions for fibre optic cable production focus on achieving higher speeds, reducing material consumption, and incorporating new materials. The latest innovations for the loose tube manufacturing process, for example, include a high-speed fibre launching system, a dual clenching system, reworked fibre cutting for high speeds and improved jelly-filling.

ogy leaders. Additionally, we invest in participating in conferences, seminars, fairs, and other opportunities to interact with the most knowledgeable experts in the field.

WCI: How do you stay ahead of emerging trends and demands in the industry?

PP: Innovation never stops. Our motto is ‘Here for You’, and it’s our mission to serve our customers in the best possible way. That’s why we will continue to engage with market and technology leaders to stay ahead of the curve in all aspects of technology and business economics.

PP: We foster a strong technology-driven culture that is embedded in our DNA and led from the top, consistently sparking stimulating internal discussions. We actively engage with our customers and industry technol-

WCI: Please shed some light on your market share. Briefly tell us about your clientele.

PP: We hold a strong global market share in products and processes that demand advanced technology. Additionally, we provide attractive business solutions for standard products, emphasizing high productivity, low material consumption, and superior quality.

WCI: Please tell us about your future plans.

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Indore Composite: Innovative Cable Protection Solutions for a Connected World

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iding high on innovative technologies and sustainable manufacturing practices, Indore Composite Private Limited aims to further expand its market presence in 2024-25, while continuing to deliver high-quality products that meet the evolving needs of the fibre optic industry. By 2025, all facilities of the company target to primarily use renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. This was revealed by Mr. Ronak Sanghvi, Business Director - Telecom & Power Cables of Indore Composite Private Limited, during an exclusive interview with Wire & Cable India.

Wire & Cable India: As a supplier of cable protection solutions, how would you describe their importance in the production of optic fibre cable and how do you cater to the OFC segment?

Ronak Sanghvi: Cable protection solutions are vital to the performance, longevity, and reliability of optic fibre cables. Indore Composite Private Limited offers a comprehensive range of essential products, including FRP (fibre reinforced plastic) rods, water-swellable (WS) tapes, coated glass yarns, thixotropic gels, and ARP (aramid reinforced plastic) rods. Our flagship product, FRP rods, provides the necessary tensile strength, antibuckling properties and optimum flexibility, which are key factors in maintaining network integrity. WS tapes, yarns and gels protect cables against water ingress and offer antirodent protection, significantly enhancing durability in challenging environments. These solutions collectively reduce maintenance requirements, improve signal transmission quality, enable quicker installation, and ensure the robustness of fibre optic networks across various applications.

WCI: How are you positioned in the segment in terms of market share and production capacity?

RS: Indore Composite Private Limited is a pioneer in UV pultrusion technology for FRP and one of the largest global suppliers of FRP rods, catering to leading optic fibre cable manufacturers, including Corning Incorporated, Furukawa OFS, Prysmian, CommScope, SterliteTech, HFCL, Fujikura Group, LS Cables, ZTT and numerous other medium &

Mr. Ronak Sanghvi, Business Director - Telecom & Power Cables of Indore Composite Private Limited

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Optical Fibre Cables ities offer unmatched supply security, ensuring on-time delivery even in the most challenging situations.

The Indian fibre optic cable market is poised for significant growth, driven by rising demand for high-speed internet, the 5G rollout, and digital transformation. small players. With an FRP production capacity of 8 million km annually, we align our operations to meet the demands of these industry giants.

Indore Composite has maintained a dominant market position for over two decades, continually enhancing value creation through innovation and a customer-centric approach.

Our manufacturing facilities are equipped with cutting-edge technologies, including proprietary UV pultrusion processes, automated production lines, and AI & machine learning quality control systems. This set-up allows us to efficiently produce high-quality products with a lower environmental impact, setting us apart from competitors. Indore’s WS tape capacity stands at 12 million square meters, glass/polyester yarn capacity at 4,000 MT and gel capacity at 6,200 MT annually. Our multiple local & global manufacturing and warehousing facil-

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WCI: How unique are the cable protection solutions used in optic fibre cables compared to those used in other cables?

RS: The cable protection solutions used in optic fibre cables are highly specialized compared to those in traditional copper or electrical cables. Our FRP rods are specifically designed to provide high tensile strength without adding significant weight, crucial for maintaining the flexibility and lightweight nature of fibre optic cables. Since these cables often run parallel to electrical cables, the dielectric nature of all components inside is critical. Our UV pultrusion technology, which uses UV light instead of conventional thermal methods, not only enhances product quality but also reduces the carbon footprint by 35 percent, making it both high-performing and ecofriendly. Unlike traditional steel wire reinforcement, which risks corrosion, our FRP composite rods eliminate this issue, providing superior performance.

WCI: Who among the optic fibre cable manufacturers use your solutions? Please discuss the distinct results your solutions helped them achieve.

RS: Indore Composite has been a trusted supplier to the world’s lead-

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ing optic fibre cable manufacturers, including Corning Incorporated, OFS (part of Furukawa Electric Company), Prysmian, CommScope, Sterlite, and AFL. Our FRP rods and protection solutions have enabled these companies to achieve superior cable performance with reduced signal loss, enhanced cable robustness, increased fibre count, and improved environmental resilience. By integrating our products, these manufacturers have seen significant improvements in the mechanical and environmental properties of their cables, allowing them to set new benchmarks in quality and reliability in global markets.

Our consistent quality of glass yarns, tapes and gels ensure better efficiencies and higher line speeds at customer’s production line, thus reducing scrap generation and downtime. Our precise manufacturing enables us to adapt to the unique cable production lines of our customers. Product customization and co-development initiatives with customers, led by Indore’s R&D team, is a key differentiator and strength, which makes Indore the most preferred supply partner.

WCI: What technology do you majorly rely on to manufacture products? Please give details about your quality control process which you adopt to ensure reliability and performance.

RS: Indore Composite relies on its

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Optical Fibre Cables as part of our ongoing sustainability initiatives.

WCI: How do you view the Indian fibre optic cable market in terms of growth and product diversification? Where do you see yourself in 2024-25?

Solutions For Telecom Industry

proprietary UV pultrusion technology to produce FRP rods, using UV light to cure resins, which enhances mechanical properties and significantly reduces the carbon footprint compared to traditional thermal curing methods. We also employ advanced compounding techniques for WS tapes, gels and ARP components, ensuring consistent quality and performance. Our quality control processes include rigorous testing protocols such as tensile strength tests, environmental aging tests and signal attenuation checks, which ensure compliance with stringent industry standards. All our plants are certified with ISO 9001:2015, 14001:2015 and 45001:2018, while our R&D laboratory is NABL certified, which validates our robust quality management and testing systems. We continuously invest in automation, digitalization and Industry 4.0 technologies, integrating AI and machine learning at all quality checkpoints to minimize human error and ensure consistent product quality to our valued customers.

WCI: How do you source raw materials and what challenges do you face in the process?

RS: Our raw materials, including high-quality glass fibres, specialty resins, non-woven fabric, additives and coating materials are sourced from reliable world-class suppliers known for their consistency and quality. The main challenges we encounter include price volatility, raw material availability and logistics disruptions. To counter these challenges, Indore Composite has established a diversified supply chain and maintains strategic reserves of critical raw materials. By partnering with both local and international www.wirecable.in

suppliers, we ensure a robust supply chain that is insulated from regional and global disruptions such as shortages and logistical challenges, ensuring uninterrupted production and consistent quality.

WCI: How sustainable are your products and how do you ensure it?

RS: Sustainability is a cornerstone of Indore Composite’s operations. Our UV pultrusion technology reduces energy consumption and emissions compared to traditional thermal processes, cutting the carbon footprint of our FRP rods by 35 percent. By 2025, all Indore facilities will primarily use renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. We are committed to carbon neutrality by 2030 and have partnered with organizations such as CDP, EcoVadis and Deloitte to validate our sustainability efforts against SBTI standards. Our new product development focuses on recyclable & eco-friendly materials, and we adhere to stringent environmental management standards. We are also exploring the use of bio-based resins and ensuring zero waste to landfill

RS: The Indian fibre optic cable market is poised for significant growth, driven by rising demand for high-speed internet, the 5G rollout, and digital transformation. As one of the global leaders in providing cost-effective solutions for both domestic and export markets, India’s telecom sector is expected to see multi fold growth in the next five years, boosting demand for fibre optic cables and related products. The restart of the BBNL BharatNet project will provide a major boost to Indian manufacturers and the entire fibre optic cable value chain.

We anticipate tremendous opportunities for product diversification, especially in advanced cable protection solutions tailored for next-generation networks, including data centers, smart cities, 5G, and defence applications. By 2024-25, Indore Composite aims to further expand its market presence through innovative technologies and sustainable manufacturing practices, continuing to deliver high-quality products that meet the evolving needs of the fibre optic industry.

Our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction will drive our growth and maintain our leadership position in the market.

Solutions For Power Cable Industry

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From The Desk

Impact of Global Regulatory Changes on the Cable Industry Recent regulatory changes focus on enhanced safety and environmental responsibility, raising standards for fire resistance, durability, and electrical performance, while tightening limits on hazardous materials. Adapting to these changes is no longer merely about compliance; it’s about leading the industry.

Mr. Shreegopal Kabra, Managing Director at RR Kabel

Navigating the evolving landscape of the global cable industry requires a keen understanding of the regulatory bodies that shape its standards. Recent regulatory changes focus on enhanced safety and environmental responsibility, raising standards for fire resistance, durability, and electrical performance, while tightening limits on hazardous materials. Today, adapting to these changes is no longer merely about compliance; it’s about leading the industry with proactive innovation and commitment to global standards. In this backdrop, it’s imperative that we understand how the regulatory changes impact the industry at large.

Impact on Cable Manufacturing Compliance Costs: Adhering to new regulations can significantly impact finances, with increased costs for upgrading production facilities and incorporating advanced technologies.

Businesses may face higher expenditures to meet new safety and environmental standards, requiring careful financial planning and investment. However, this also presents an opportunity for manufacturers to enhance their operational efficiency www.wirecable.in

and product quality, ultimately positioning themselves as leaders in a more regulated market.

drive for innovation is reshaping the industry, pushing it towards more advanced and eco-conscious solutions.

Innovation and Adaptation: Regulatory changes act as a catalyst for innovation. To meet new safety and environmental standards, companies are developing cutting-edge products and materials. For instance, advancements in halogen free and environmentally friendly cable designs are becoming more prevalent. This

Quality Assurance and Testing: Ensuring compliance requires rigorous quality assurance and testing procedures. Advanced testing methodologies and certification processes are critical for verifying that products meet safety and environmental standards. This includes more comprehensive fire

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From The Desk resistance tests and assessments of environmental impact, ensuring products are both safe and sustainable.

Market Dynamics and Landscape Global Trade and Export: Regulatory changes influence global trade and export opportunities for cable manufacturers, affecting market access and competitiveness. Companies must navigate varying regulatory environments, which can present both challenges, such as compliance costs, and opportunities for accessing new markets with tailored products.

Regional Variations: Regulatory changes differ significantly across regions, impacting local markets in diverse ways. For instance, regions with stringent regulations may drive higher compliance costs but also ensure superior safety standards, while areas with lenient policies might offer cost advantages but pose risks. Understanding these regional variations helps manufacturers strategize effectively and tailor their approaches to meet specific regulatory demands.

Sustainability and Environmental Considerations Eco-Friendly Cables: There is an increasing demand for environmentally friendly cables, driven by both regulatory pressures and consumer preferences. Innovations in biodegradable and recyclable cable materials are gaining traction as manufacturers seek to reduce their environmental footprint. These ecofriendly solutions comply with new regulations while aligning with broader sustainability goals.

Businesses may face higher expenditures to meet new safety and environmental standards, requiring careful financial planning and investment. However, this also presents an opportunity for manufacturers to enhance their operational efficiency and product quality. for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) on August 25, 2023, the Solar DC Cable and Fire Survival Cable (Quality Control) Order, 2023, mandates compliance with stringent standards to curb the import of substandard goods and bolster domestic manufacturing. Specifically, fire survival cables, which are crucial in high-stakes environments like hospitals, hotels, airports and highrise buildings, must now adhere to Indian Standard 17505 (Part 1): 2021.

These cables are designed to sustain high temperatures for a defined period under direct fire, ensuring critical infrastructure safety.

Future Outlook Anticipated Regulatory Trends: The integration of smart technologies into regulatory frameworks is anticipated, with an increasing emphasis on digital compliance tracking and advanced monitoring systems. Preparing for these changes requires a proactive approach, with manufacturers staying abreast of regulatory developments and investing in future-proof technologies.

Strategic Recommendations: To remain competitive and compliant,

Shaping industry practices and product development: Regulations aimed at reducing the environmental impact of cable manufacturing are increasingly shaping industry practices and product development.

A significant step in this direction is the recent introduction of mandatory quality norms for solar cables and fire survival cables by the Indian government. Issued by the Department www.wirecable.in

cable manufacturers must adopt strategic measures that align with anticipated regulatory trends.

Continuous monitoring of regulatory changes is essential, allowing companies to adapt swiftly. Engaging actively with regulatory bodies and participating in industry forums can further provide valuable insights and influence the development of practical, industry-friendly regulations. Investing in research and development to innovate and improve product offerings will help manufacturers meet and exceed regulatory standards.

Emphasizing quality assurance, through rigorous testing and certification processes, will ensure that products not only comply with current regulations but are also prepared for future requirements. By prioritizing sustainability, manufacturers can cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly products, positioning themselves as leaders in a progressively green market.

Looking ahead, the future regulatory landscape of the cable industry will present both challenges and opportunities. Manufacturers who embrace change, invest in innovation, and engage proactively with regulatory bodies will be well-equipped to navigate this evolving environment, ensuring their continued growth and success.

Emphasizing quality assurance, through rigorous testing and certification processes, will ensure that products not only comply with current regulations but are also prepared for future requirements.

S

hreegopal Kabra is a business leader and philanthropist. He is the Managing Director and President of RR Global, a USD 1.25 billion diversified group of industries focusing mainly on infrastructure and electrical solutions spread across 90+ countries.

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Product Profile

Mikrotek: Driving Innovation in Precision Die Solutions for the Global Wire Industry

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y integrating advanced technology with a deep understanding of the industry’s needs, Mikrotek not just produces dies, they are shaping the future of wire manufacturing by delivering extraordinary results that help manufacturers achieve their goals efficiently and effectively. Mikrotek’s range of wire drawing dies—SMP dies, natural diamond dies, PCD dies, synthetic single crystal diamond dies and nano dies—continues to empower manufacturers worldwide.

The wire manufacturing industry thrives on precision, durability, and efficiency. As a global leader in die technology, Mikrotek has been at the forefront of delivering solutions that not only meet but exceed the industry’s expectations.

With a strong focus on innovation, Mikrotek’s range of wire drawing dies—SMP dies, Natural diamond dies, PCD dies, synthetic single crystal diamond dies and Mikrotek nano dies—continues to empower manufacturers worldwide.

Each product is engineered with a deep understanding of the unique challenges wire manufacturers face, ensuring optimal performance for a wide range of applications.

to withstand temperatures up to 1200 degrees centigrade, while providing consistent results across a variety of wire materials. From copper to steel, these dies can handle the most demanding wire drawing tasks, making them an invaluable asset for manufacturers seeking durability without compromising production speed.

For those looking for an alternative to natural diamonds, Mikrotek’s synthetic single crystal dies are engineered to provide the same level of precision and durability, ensuring manufacturers can maintain tight tolerances without sacrificing longevity. With synthetic diamonds, consistency is key, and our dies deliver it every time, no matter the application.

At the heart of Mikrotek’s innovation is their SMP (Special Mikrotek PCD) dies, a product that has garnered attention for its ability to enhance both productivity and quality. These dies feature a special Solid Rock Technology’ that ensures high thermal conductivity and thermal stability, giving long life and a good wire surface for several miles of drawing. For manufacturers, this translates into not only improved surface quality of the wire but also extended die life, significantly lowering downtime and operational costs. Whether for fine or ultrafine wire applications, SMP dies deliver exceptional consistency, making them a preferred choice for manufacturers aiming to achieve superior results without compromising efficiency.

Mikrotek nano dies are designed for rough and tough wire drawing, delivering unmatched precision for diameters as small as 0.300 mm. These dies are manufactured using advanced and well controlled vacuum process to ensure extreme accuracy, smooth wire surfaces, and minimal friction and are ideal for industries like copper, aluminum, stainless steel, high carbon and low carbon wire drawing. Mikrotek nano dies are best for its performance bunching, stranding and compacting dies. The advantages are minimal friction and excellent wire surface finish, 5 to 10 times longer lifespan than PCD dies and 30+ times longer lifespan than TC dies.

Mikrotek’s commitment to excellence doesn’t stop with SMP dies. Mikrotek’s natural diamond dies remain a staple for wire manufacturers who demand the very good wire surface finish and precision. Natural diamonds, renowned for their exceptional hardness and wear resistance, ensure that these dies deliver blemish free wire surface finishes with high dimensional accuracy. As a result, natural diamond dies are an ideal solution for industries that require ultra-fine wires with tight tolerances.

“At Mikrotek, we understand that innovation isn’t just about the products we create—it’s also about enhancing the overall

While natural diamonds offer unmatched quality, the versatility of their Polycrystalline Diamond (PCD) dies opens the door to high-speed, high-volume production environments. The cobalt used in PCD dies are designed

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Product Profile experience for our customers. The team is proud to introduce a new feature on our website that allows manufacturers to track their orders in real-time by using Track Your Order tab in the website”, the company adds. This development provides clients with greater control over their production schedules, enabling better planning and ensuring timely deliveries. In an industry where timing can make all the difference, this order-tracking feature offers a significant advantage.

it’s the groundbreaking performance of our SMP dies, the unmatched precision of natural diamond dies, or the versatility of PCD and synthetic single crystal diamond dies, Mikrotek continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in wire manufacturing.

Mikrotek claims, “By integrating advanced technology with a deep understanding of the industry’s needs, we are not just producing dies—we are shaping the future of wire manufacturing. As we continue to innovate, our goal remains the same: to deliver extraordinary results that help manufacturers achieve their goals efficiently and effectively.”

Mikrotek’s comprehensive range of die solutions is designed to meet these demands, providing manufacturers with the tools they need to stay ahead of the competition. Whether

NEWS

Vedanta Aluminium Unveils Two New Products for Power Industry The products were showcased at PowerEdge 2024, an industry-focused event that attracted leading companies from the power and transmission sectors, sector experts and policymakers.

Speaking about the performance of the platform, John Slaven, CEO, Vedanta Aluminium, said, “PowerEdge 2024 highlighted the vital role aluminium plays in enabling the energy sector’s transformation, and our new product offerings are a testament to this vision. We reaffirm our commitment to driving efficiency and sustainability in the power industry. By leveraging our expertise, cuttingedge technology, and an in-depth understanding of our customers’ unique requirements, we aim to help them achieve greater efficiency, develop innovative product applications, and meet their sustainability goals in a highly competitive global landscape.”

Sep 12, 2024

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edanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer and the world’s largest aluminium wire rod manufacturer, introduced two high-quality products for the power and transmission industry at ‘PowerEdge 2024’. The first, the AL59 Ingot, offers superior electrical conductivity, making it ideal for remelting. The second product is the electrical conductor (EC) grade Wire Rod, designed for winding strip applications with a balance of strength, conductivity, workability, and formability. Both products are engineered for high-precision use, making them perfect for fine drawing, conforming, and enamelling in transformer and motor winding applications.

With a production capacity of 650 kilo tonnes (KT) in wire rod production, the company offers a wide range of topquality EC-grade wire rods, alloy wire rods, and flip coils for the electrical industry. These products are manufactured using technologies from Southwire (USA) and ContinuusProperzi (Italy), ensuring high precision and quality. This scale and range of production make Vedanta Aluminium the largest producer of wire rods globally. These products are supplied to customers in over 60 countries for high-end applications, attesting to their high production quality and global demand.

These products were showcased at PowerEdge 2024, an industry-focused event that attracted leading companies from the power and transmission sectors, sector experts and policymakers. The event also featured expert-led sessions on the future roadmap of the sector and the role of aluminium in its transformation. It served as a platform for industry players to identify new areas of collaboration.

India’s electricity demand grew by 7% in 2023, with an expected average annual growth rate of 6% through 2026. To ensure a reliable, affordable, and uninterrupted power supply, it is crucial to develop an efficient and robust infrastructure that optimally utilizes electricity from generation stations to load centers. The company claims its wire rods, with their superior conductivity and design flexibility, have become crucial in the energy sector, driving efficiency and sustainability.

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Additionally, the company’s Restora and Restora Ultra ranges, manufactured using renewable energy and recovered aluminium respectively, offer some of the lowest carbon footprints globally, underscoring its commitment to providing sustainably produced materials to the global power and transmission industry.

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India Will Need INR 3 Trillion Annual Investments to Achieve 440GW RE Capacity by 2030 As per ICRA Limited, in order to achieve an installed renewable energy capacity of 440 GW by 2030, India will need investments of more than INR 3 lakh crore for the next five-six years.

Sep 23, 2024

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ndia will need annual investments exceeding INR 3 trillion to achieve an installed renewable energy capacity of 440 GW by 2030, revealed ICRA Limited, an independent investment information and credit rating agency.

Speaking at a media roundtable recently, Vice President & Co-Group Head - Corporate Ratings at ICRA, Mr. Vikram V, predicted that the country was on track to hit 440 GW of installed renewable capacity within the next seven years. He emphasized the essential need for consistent and largescale investments to make this vision a reality.

Mr. Girish Kumar Kadam, Group Head of Corporate Sector Ratings at ICRA, said that achieving this target would require incremental investments of at least INR 3 trillion annually for the next five to six years. Achieving the RE capacity of more than 400 GW was also important to meet the Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) target of 43 percent by 2030, noted Mr. Kadam.

of India’s electric vehicle (EV) market. They estimated that by FY2030, electric two-wheelers would account for 25 percent of new vehicle sales, with electric threewheelers and buses constituting 40 percent and 30 percent, respectively.

The EV sector was anticipated to attract nearly INR 25,000 crore in investments towards charging infrastructure and the localisation of EV components over the next three to four years, they added.

He said the evolving landscape of the renewable sector presented both risks and substantial opportunities for investors. The sector’s growth potential was enormous, however, the government must address these pressing issues expeditiously to maintain momentum.

The ratings agency said as the country accelerated its transition to green energy, the renewable and EV sectors were poised to become major investment destinations. The ambitious target was part of the country’s broader energy transition agenda, underscoring the growing importance of clean energy solutions in India’s power mix, it added.

The two ICRA experts further outlined the growth trajectory

National Committee for Transmission Proposes Transmission Projects Worth INR 22,540 Crore As per NCT, the proposed projects will mark a significant investment in the country’s energy infrastructure, strengthening the transmission network across the country, supporting the growing demand for electricity, and enhancing the reliability and efficiency of power distribution.

Sep 11, 2024

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he National Committee for Transmission (NCT) has submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Power, seeking its approval for transmission projects worth INR 22,540 crore.

Apart from marking a significant investment in the country’s energy infrastructure, the proposed projects were expected to strengthen the transmission network across the country,

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support the growing electricity demand, as well as enhance the reliability and efficiency of power distribution.

The committee’s recommendations included development of new transmission lines, substations and other related infrastructure. The proposed investments were expected to address current bottlenecks in the power transmission sector and support the integration of renewable energy sources into the national grid, a crucial step in advancing

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Emphasizing the urgency of rapid development in transmission capabilities to meet India’s ambitious renewable energy targets, the Committee proposed the Gujarat Offshore Wind Project worth INR 6,900 crore, which focused on transmitting power from proposed offshore wind farms along the Gujarat coast.

Another major transmission project proposed by NCT, the Tamil Nadu Offshore Wind Project worth INR 6,242 crore, was designed to establish transmission infrastructure for offshore wind energy along the Tamil Nadu coast.

The committee also proposed a project worth INR 1,663 crore to enhance transmission infrastructure in the Western Region, specifically targeting the power generated from upcoming pumped storage projects.

Another critical component enlisted among the proposals was the augmentation of the Bhuj-II Substation, entailing an investment of INR 587 crore to increase transformation capacity and add bus reactors.

pivotal for achieving the nation’s energy transition goals.

It said the proposed transmission projects in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu were essential in this broader strategic expansion.

As per NCT, the initiatives aligned with the Central Electricity Authority’s (CEA) draft plan, which outlined a requirement of INR 4.75 trillion by 2027 to develop India’s transmission infrastructure. It said the investment was vital to support the expected growth in renewable energy capacity and ensure reliable power transmission across the country.

The committee said in its meeting that the integration of offshore wind projects and pumped storage capacity was

The meeting also reviewed the progress of previously approved transmission schemes, discussing modifications to existing projects such as the transmission system strengthening at Koppal-II and Gadag-II. These adjustments aimed at better integrating renewable energy generation projects into the grid, it added.

NCT further addressed the logistical challenges that could impact the timely implementation of these projects, stating that the transportation of large equipment was a potential bottleneck, which required careful management to keep project timelines on track.

Alphagary, Shakun Polymers Introduce Semi-Conductive Compounds in US Market The new series of semi-conductive compounds, introduced to the US wire and cable marketplace under the brand name ESCONTEK, offer exceptional performance and reliability, tailored specifically to meet the unique requirements of the US market.

Jul 23, 2024

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rbia Polymer Solutions (Alphagary), a globallyrenowned provider of innovative polymer solutions for wire and cable applications, in partnership with Shakun Polymers, is introducing a new series of semi-conductive compounds to the US wire and cable marketplace, under the brand name ESCONTEK. As per a release issued by Alphagary, the new series of semi-conductive compounds offers exceptional performance and reliability. They are tailored specifically to meet the unique requirements – both physical and electrical – of the US. Developed by Shakun Polymers, ESCONTEK semi-

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conductive compounds will leverage Orbia Alphagary’s extensive network and presence in both North & South America to allow the materials to become readily available

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NEWS to customers in the region. This marks a significant milestone in expanding the reach of Shakun Polymers’ technology to new markets and allows Orbia Alphagary to continue to deliver the highest quality material to customers.

The upgrades ensure that raw materials are accurately weighed and thoroughly dispersed during the mixing process, providing clean & smooth extrusion with minimal residue and ionic impurities.

“The partnership between Shakun Polymers and Orbia Alphagary exemplifies a shared vision of

The ESCONTEK compounds have good scorch resistance, allowing long run-times without degradation. The materials cross-link quickly in Continuous Vulcanization (CV) tubes.

In anticipation of demand for semi-conductive materials needed to support the growing infrastructure, an investment in capacity and equipment dedicated to semi-conductive materials is scheduled for completion by June 2024.

driving innovation and delivering value within the wire and cable industry. With years of expertise in formulating and manufacturing semi-conductive materials, Shakun brings invaluable knowledge to the table, which enables us to offer proven and verified technology to our customers in the Americas,” said Mr. Suren Shah, Technical Sales Consultant for Orbia Alphagary.

Semiconductive materials are essential components in medium and high-voltage power cable applications, acting as a boundary layer to ensure efficient transmission of electrical power. Leveraging their expertise, Shakun Polymers, in partnership with Orbia Alphagary, is investing significant capital to automate production of ESCONTEK.

“By merging Shakun Polymers’ experience with Orbia Alphagary’s established presence in the North and South America wire and cable sector, we are poised to deliver technology that is not only proven, but also deeply aligned with today’s requirements. This underscores our collaboration with the Shakun team and our dedication to being a solutions-provider for our customers,” said Mr. Santiago Urbina, VP Commercial at Orbia Alphagary.

Decarbonisation of Steel: India Comes Up With Investment Plan of INR 23.52 Lakh Crore

The roadmap prepared by the Ministry of Steel aims to push renewable energy use within the steel sector from current 7.2 percent to 43 percent by 2030. The transition process will cost USD 150 billion, apart from USD 13 billion .

Sep 19, 2024

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he Ministry of Steel has come up with an action plan to decarbonise one of the country’s most energy-intensive sectors, entailing an investment of USD 283 billion.

Titled ‘Greening the Steel Sector in India: Roadmap and Action Plan,’ the plan talks about critical innovations such as defining “green steel” and leveraging Energy Efficiency Revolving Funds (EERF).

Steel is one of the most crucial elements for the infrastructure and manufacturing sector in India, which at present accounts for a substantial amount of greenhouse gas emissions.

in cleaner technologies, but also an overhaul of energy supply chains and regulatory support.

The country is currently one of the top three steel producers of the world. The world looks forward to India playing a pivotal role in the global green transition, which cannot be done without decarbonisation of the steel industry. The Ministry not only aims to make the steel industry greener, but also looks forward to boosting India’s climate commitments, especially under international frameworks like the Paris Agreement.

The ambitious roadmap targets a significant rise in renewable energy use within the steel sector from the current 7.2 percent (as of fiscal year 2021-22) to 43 percent by 2030. This leap will not only require massive investments www.wirecable.in

The government is looking at options such as tax incentives for manufacturers, particularly luxury automobile producers, so as to encourage them to switch to cleaner steel feedstock. As per officials, such measures can enhance market demand for eco-friendly steel, pushing both large-scale and smaller steel plants to adopt sustainable practices.

The transition process itself is projected to cost an additional USD 150 billion. Smaller steel mills face significant financial hurdles in this shift. It would require an investment of over USD 13 billion to modernize these plants and push them to adopt the best available green technologies.

The Ministry expects collective efforts from the government, industry and financial institutions, to achieve its target.

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Motherson to Launch Share Sale Up To USD 715 Million Samvardhana Motherson International will raise funds through a Qualified Institutional Placement. It will use the amount to repay debt, fund capital expenditure and execute expansion plans.

Sep 11, 2024

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amvardhana Motherson International, one of India’s largest auto part makers, is set to launch a share sale of up to USD 715 million in September, 2024.

As per a leading global news agency, two sources close to the development revealed that Motherson’s roadshows for the fund-raising exercise were finding support from investors, and the process was expected to complete by month-end.

Motherson International planned to use the amount to repay debt, fund a certain capital expenditure and execute some expansion plans, added the agency.

The funds were to be raised through a Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP), a process used by listed Indian companies to raise funds from large institutions. Samvardhana

The company was taking advice from Axis Bank, HSBC, Jefferies, JM Financial and Morgan Stanley on the share sale.

Tratos Acquires UK-based Cablemaker AFL Telecommunications Europe Limited The all-share acquisition includes all fibre optic cable product lines for the power utility, rail, and oil & gas markets, including the SkyWrap attached fibre optic solution for overhead power lines, ruggedized trackside fibre optic cables and subsea umbilical optic cable components.

Jul 11, 2024

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ratos Cavi Spa, a company with headquarters in Pieve Santo Stefano, Tuscany, Italy, and wholly-owned subsidiary of Tratos Srl, has acquired all shares of AFL Telecommunications Europe Limited, a subsidiary of AFL Telecommunications LLC (AFL).

The purchase includes all fibre optic cable product lines for the power utility, rail, and oil & gas markets, including the SkyWrap attached fibre optic solution for overhead power lines, ruggedized trackside fibre optic cables and subsea umbilical optic cable components.

EMEA sales team to our company will strengthen TRATOS’ position in these markets enabling us to offer a combined portfolio of market-leading electrical and optical cables to our customers”, commented Elisabetta Bragagni Capaccini, CEO of Tratos Cavi Spa.

The company will continue to operate in its recently expanded facility in Swindon, UK. The acquisition will increase the footprint of Tratos in the UK, alongside its existing electrical cable facility in Knowsley, strengthening the breadth and depth of products Tratos designs and manufactures.

“Tratos and AFL’s Swindon plant share a strong commitment to quality products and services to core customers in the power utility, rail and oil and gas markets. Adding their unique product capabilities, staff technical expertise and

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“TRATOS, as a European electrical and optic cable manufacturer with a long history in the market, is a synergistic match for the AFL Swindon facility. This is exciting news for the European utility, renewables, and rail industries”, commented Jeff Schmerbeck, Vice-President of Cable Solutions at AFL. Terms of the acquisition were not announced.

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AFL Opens Sustainable Optic Fiber Plant in Poland AFL’s European expansion brings the company’s customer-first approach to uninterrupted, high-speed connectivity and end-to-end fiber network solutions closer to regional customers.

Jul 25, 2024

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FL, a subsidiary of Fujikura Limited and global leader in optical fiber network infrastructure, has opened a sustainable manufacturing facility in MDC Park, Gliwice, Poland.

As per a release issued by the company, AFL’s European expansion brings the company’s customer-first approach to uninterrupted, high-speed connectivity and end-to-end fiber network solutions closer to regional customers.

Poland’s central location, skilled workforce and progressive vision for green manufacturing empowers rapid and sustainable customer growth. The launch also brings new and exciting job opportunities with access to a range of rewarding employer benefits.

The facility sits within a dedicated 13.4 hectare warehousing development, offering 13,000 m2 of available space. Design features include solar panels, electric vehicle charging points, a green wall, beehives, and a rainwater retention system. The building is also ideally located close to the A4 and A1 motorways, minimizing staff and customer transit times.

Mr. Naoki Okada, Director, President and CEO of Fujikura, said, “Together, Fujikura and AFL proudly take up challenges to deliver innovative and superior network solutions at the forefront of sustainability. The Poland manufacturing facility’s integrated eco-practices represent a significant step forward in our joint mission to reduce AFL and Fujikura’s ecological impact, while setting new standards in corporate responsibility.

“This new venture follows AFL’s formal ESG Committee launch and partnership with the EPA Energy Star program,

further empowering the company to reach its greenhouse gas goals in line with the Science Based Targets initiative.

I am confident the facility will serve to connect our valued EMEA customers and partners with exceptional, ecoconscious products and services, providing agile, consistent experiences that earn trust and contribute to society,” he added.

Mr. Jaxon Lang, President and CEO of AFL, said, “The Poland manufacturing facility gives a clear line of sight to the company’s customer-first mentality, supporting regional customers with innovative, high-density fiber network solutions at the performance and scale they require. As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, I also celebrate AFL’s keen sense of community, with involvement in local initiatives already underway in Poland, building on raising over USD 800,000 for our global communities and our widespread volunteer work. Simply put, I could not be prouder of the people, passion and potential at AFL. Our hopes and best wishes ride with the teams taking up their new roles in Poland. I know the facility will have all the support from AFL to not only meet, but exceed customer expectations from day one.”

LS Cable & System to Construct US’ Largest Submarine Cable Plant The plant will be built with an investment of around USD 732.79 million. It will be equipped with a 200m power cable production tower, the tallest in the world.

Jul 24, 2024

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Chesapeake, East Virginia. The construction will commence in 2025 and be completed in 2027. The plant will also be equipped with a 200 m power cable production tower, the tallest in the world.

This plant will have a total floor area of 70,000 m2 on a site measuring 396,700 m2 in the Elizabeth River basin in

Forecasting that the U.S. submarine cable market will grow at an annual average rate of at least 30 percent over the next 10 years, LS Cable & System has developed a strategy

S Cable & System has announced the construction of the largest submarine cable plant in the U.S. with an investment of approximately USD 732.79 million.

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NEWS to preemptively enter and thereby dominate the market.

An LS Cable & System official said, “As most offshore wind power projects in the U.S. are being promoted along the East Coast, Chesapeake offers optimal conditions for bidding, shipping and transport.”

LS Cable & System will receive a subsidy and tax benefits to a scale of approximately USD 48 million from the state government. The company has secured funding of USD 147 million in total, including IRA support of USD 99 million from the Department of Energy (DOE). This will make it the largest-scale project of a global cable company entering the U.S. market.

(From left) Caren Merrick, Secretary of Commerce and Trade for the Commonwealth of Virginia, Glenn Yongkin, Governor of Virginia, Koo Bon-kyu, CEO of LS Cable & System, and Shim Yun-chan, Head of International Cooperation, LS GreenLink

“This state-of-the-art facility represents our commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and engineering,” said President & CEO of LS Cable & System Bon-Kyu Koo. “This facility will not only enhance our capability to meet the growing global demands for submarine power cables, but will also position us at the forefront of the industry.”

“We are proud that LS GreenLink has chosen the Commonwealth of Virginia to build its submarine cable facility and become a partner in advancing our goal of becoming the market leader in offshore wind technology, development, and deployment,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick.

“LS GreenLink’s investment in Virginia will showcase the Commonwealth as a leader in offshore wind industry manufacturing,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “LS GreenLink has recognized that Virginia has the skilled talent, world-class logistics location, and business environment that will allow it to serve its growing global customers for submarine power cables.”

With LS Cable & System embarking on this U.S. plant construction in earnest, the industry expects acceleration in large-scale cable laying ship building by LS Marine Solution and European submarine cable business promotion by LS Eco Energy. Aiming for completion by 2027, it will dominate the U.S. submarine cable market through an annual average growth of 30 percent.

Srikanth Chakravarthy Steps Down as Managing Director of Bekaert India Mr. Chakravarthy played a pivotal role in establishing Bekaert as the market leader for steel tire cord in India, holding nearly a 50 percent share for over 25 years.

Jul 24, 2024

Widely recognised by Indian tire companies, Mr. Chakravarthy collaborated closely with them for 26 years, supporting India’s transition from less than five percent steel radial tires to the current market share of 60 percent for truck & bus tires and 95 percent for passenger car tires.

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anaging Director for Bekaert India and Vice President for the company’s Middle East and Africa operations, Mr. Srikanth Chakravarthy, resigned after a long career of 26 years.

The founding member of Bekaert India played a pivotal role in establishing Bekaert as the market leader for steel tire cord in India, holding nearly a 50 percent share for over 25 years. The company also established its presence in several other industries of the country during the period, including automotive, energy, construction, agriculture and filtration, owing to the efforts of Mr. Chakravarthy.

He was instrumental in the establishment of Bekaert India, growing the business from ground zero to over USD 300 million, overseeing the setting up of India’s first tire cord plant, first hose wire plant, first technical center for steel cord & rubber reinforcement solutions, and first engineering center for Bekaert in India, among other expansions.

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His career at Bekaert spanned various global and regional roles across Europe, the US, and the Middle East, including international sales, global account management, global business strategy, and country and regional management.

Through his long association with Bekaert and with his strong team, Mr. Srikanth Chakravarthy has ensured that India has a high quality reputed wire manufacturer with a successful Make in India strategy.

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Hellenic Cables to Build Cable Manufacturing Facility worth USD 300 Million in South Baltimore Hellenic Cables Americas will build a cable manufacturing facility worth around USD 300 million in a 38-acre waterfront property at Wagners Point industrial area in South Baltimore, USA. Aug 5, 2024

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ellenic Cables Americas has acquired a 38-acre waterfront property at Wagners Point industrial area in South Baltimore, USA, to build a cable manufacturing facility worth around USD 300 million.

A press release issued by Hellenic, which is a subsidiary of Belgium-based Cenergy Holdings, said that the new factory would be dedicated to manufacturing underwater and underground cables for offshore wind and grid modernization applications.

It would address the growing energy transition market of the 21st Century with high-tech products made in a modern, clean, low-noise and ultra-low-emissions environment, it added.

The company recently announced receiving a federal tax credit of up to USD 58 million from the Department of Energy as a Qualifying Advanced Energy Project.

Senior Executive at Cenergy Holdings, Mr. Thanasis

Molokotos, said they were excited to be part of Maryland’s expanding role in building a robust U.S.-based supply chain for power transmission. The support of the local community, city leaders and state & federal representatives has been instrumental in reaching this important milestone for Hellenic Cables, he added.

Governor Wes Moore said Maryland was proud to partner with Cenergy Holdings and Hellenic Cables to build a cleaner, greener, and more equitable future for all. By working together, they would create new jobs, make Maryland more competitive, and provide fresh pathways for work, wages, and wealth for more Baltimoreans.

Prysmian Gets EUR 45 Billion from EIB to Promote Energy Transition in Europe The investment will enable Prysmian to double its production capacity for extruded cables at its three factories in Pikkala (Finland), Pozzuoli (Italy) and Gron (France) from around 2,000 km a year to over 4,000 km a year.

Aug 7, 2024

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rysmian, world leader in the power and telecom cables sector, has signed a new finance contract worth EUR 45 billion with European Investment Bank (EIB) to facilitate electricity transmission and distribution in Europe. With a view to meeting the growing demand for renewable energy in general and offshore wind in particular, Prysmian will use the EIB funds to build new production lines for extra-highvoltage submarine cables, lines for high-voltage onshore cables and other technical improvements to existing lines.

The EIB-financed investment will enable Prysmian to double its production capacity for extruded cables at its three factories in Pikkala (Finland), Pozzuoli (Italy) and Gron (France) from around 2,000 km a year to over 4,000 km a year. This will help to meet EU targets for clean

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energy transmission via submarine cable solutions and long-distance interconnections, improving the integration and efficiency of renewable energy. The project is fully in line with the EIB’s climate action and environmental sustainability goals and the REPowerEU framework, which the EU bank has committed to support with EUR 45 billion of additional investment by 2027.

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Sterlite Power Secures New Orders Worth INR 1500 Crore in Q1 FY’25 The new set of orders, won across the domestic and international market in Q1 FY25, builds on the total order book of over INR 6,560 crore at the start of this financial year.

Sep 19, 2024

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terlite Power, a leading global power products and solutions provider, has bagged orders worth INR 1,500 crore across its Global Products and Services (GPS) business that caters to high performance, green products and specialized Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) services.

The new set of orders, won across the domestic and international market in Q1 FY25, builds on the total order book of over INR 6,560 crore at the start of this financial year.

Commenting on the new order wins, Mr. Reshu Madan, CEO, Global Products and Services, said “The GPS business is witnessing remarkable expansion, reflecting the surge in the transmission sector and India’s robust economic outlook. These new orders, spanning various segments, reflect the materializing of our strategic business growth goals and the increasing demand for our products both domestically and internationally.”

The business has secured a significant order to upgrade two vital 66kV lines for Gujarat Energy Transmission Corporation Limited (GETCO). This project will increase capacity through line reconductoring using high performance conductors. The initiative marks a significant milestone, marking Sterlite Power’s first HTLS reconductoring project in the western region.

As per a release issued by Sterlite Power, the overhead products are seeing strong demand for its high-performance conductors and Optical Ground Wire (OPGW), driving growth in both domestic and international markets.

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The company secured major orders in Q1 for supply of conductors, especially for Tariff Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB) transmission projects, thereby maintaining its market leadership in India and being the supplier of choice. The business has also secured orders from new export markets, thereby strengthening its export focus. The business has also secured orders for supply of OPGW across various domestic and international customers.

The power cable business is playing a crucial role in bolstering India’s power infrastructure and enhances measures towards disaster preparedness. The company has secured major orders worth INR 250 crore for supply of Medium Voltage (MV) cables under the Government of India’s disaster management scheme, aimed at ensuring uninterrupted power supply in disaster-prone areas.

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It is also contributing to industrial modernization, securing a turnkey project to replace aging overhead power cable systems. These projects demonstrate our expertise in largescale infrastructure projects and commitment to providing reliable power distribution solutions. The business has also secured multiple orders in EHV, HV and MV cables category.

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MIKROTEK MACHINES LIMITED No.16, 2nd Cross, ‘A’ Sector, Amruthnagar Main Road, Bangalore - 560092, INDIA

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Kalpataru Projects International Bags Orders worth INR 2,995 Crore KPIL has bagged orders in the transmission and distribution business in overseas markets, building and factories orders in India, and engineering, procurement and construction orders in the water business in a joint venture.

Jul 20, 2024

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alpataru Projects International Limited has announced securing new orders worth INR 2,995 crore.

KPIL said the company, along with its joint ventures and international subsidiaries, has bagged orders in the transmission and distribution (T&D) business in overseas markets, building and factories (B&F) orders in India, and engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) orders in the water business in a joint venture.

Mr. Manish Mohnot, MD and CEO of KPIL, said the firm’s order intake in the current fiscal year, following the recent order wins, stood at INR 6,178 crore.

The orders in the B&F and water business have further strengthened KPIL’s order book, improving the growth visibility for these businesses, he added.

He said the continuous inflow of orders in the T&D business have reaffirmed the company’s confidence that T&D EPC business would contribute significantly to KPIL’s growth.

Mr. Mohnot said the robust and well-diversified order book has given KPIL the confidence to achieve the targeted growth going forward.

China’s State Grid Breaks Ground on 2,370-km Electric Transmission Line The ultra-high voltage transmission line worth USD 4.86 billion will send more than 36 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year of electricity from Gansu province in the west to Zhejiang in the east, passing through four other provinces on the way.

Aug 11, 2024

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he State Grid Corporation of China has broken ground on a 2,370-km-long electric transmission line worth USD 4.86 billion.

As per local media reports, the ultra-high voltage transmission line would send more than 36 billion kilowatthours (kWh) per year of electricity from Gansu province in the west to Zhejiang in the east, passing through four other provinces on the way.

A forecast by the China Electricity Council estimated the figure to represent about 0.4 percent of China’s expected 9.82 trillion kWh of electricity demand this year.

The reports said the investment was part of a strategy to send power from China’s vast renewable energy-rich western region to its power hungry and densely developed

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eastern provinces.

The Chinese state-owned electric utility corporation planned to spend more than USD 84.28 billion on grid investments this year, an increase of USD 9.99 billion from last year, they added.

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Lesjöfors Group Expands Operations in Europe & India The Lesjöfors Group has increased its operations in Eastern Europe with the opening of a new manufacturing facility in Poland, alongside its subsidiary Alcomex’s standard stock door spring operation in Pune, India.

Jul 10, 2024

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he Lesjöfors Group has increased its operations in Eastern Europe with the opening of a new manufacturing facility in Poland, alongside its subsidiary Alcomex in India.

As per the release, the new production site at Marki in Poland divides the custom-made tension and torsion spring manufacturing specialisms across two sites and enables the production & assembly of increased spring volumes, in line with customer demand.

Investments have also been made at Alcomex’s standard stock door spring operation in Pune, India. Enabling advancements in cutting-edge technology, production lines, storage and shipping facilities, the recent funding expands capabilities in line with market predictions for the European & American residential and industrial door spring market.

Ola Tengroth, CEO of the Group says: “We’re proud to have Alcomex as one of our brands. These recent investments support both theirs and our vision & tactical market growth, all of which has added to our global market expansion and opened new markets for our springs, pressings, gas springs

and metal belt manufacture and supply.”

Jelle van Vliet, Managing Director of Alcomex says: “Our strategic asset growth programme and facility investments have been in direct correlation with customer demand and projected sales trajectories.”

Conrad Hietink, Managing Director of Alcomex says: “Since 2016, our share of the European door spring market has grown, and I am so proud of everything our team has achieved. We look forward to ongoing expansion over the next decade.”

Construction Works Start on 8700-km Medusa Submarine Cable System The Medusa Submarine Cable System is an 8700-km-long undersea fiber optic system connecting the eastern and western Mediterranean to the Atlantic Ocean, creating a new corridor from Asia to the Atlantic.

Jul 17, 2024

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lcatel Submarine Networks (ASN), Elettra Tlc, Medusa and Orange have announced the coming into force of the construction contract for the Medusa Submarine Cable System, an ambitious project, which will boost connectivity across the Mediterranean Sea. As per a release issued by Orange, the Medusa Submarine Cable System is an undersea fiber optic system connecting the eastern and western Mediterranean to the Atlantic Ocean, creating a new corridor from Asia to the Atlantic, and enabling the development of the information society and its participants across the region. Digital connectivity will form the basis of the region’s economic development. By directly interconnecting Europe and Africa, Medusa will contribute to bridging the digital divide.

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It is a pan-Mediterranean cable linking Port Said in Egypt to Lisbon in Portugal, via landing points in every North African country, Italy, France, Greece, Spain and Cyprus. Medusa, whose developers agreed to extend to Libya in November 2023, spans 8,700 km, offering 24 fibre pairs at up to 20

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Jul-Aug, 2024

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NEWS Tbps per fibre pair. The submarine cable is expected to be ready for service in either 2025 or 2026.

Medusa will establish crucial connections between Morocco, Portugal, Spain, France, Algeria, Tunisia, Italy, Greece, Cyprus and Egypt. The subsystem named Via Tunisia, part of the Medusa Cable, linking France and Tunisia, is co-funded by the European Union under the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) program, as already announced by Orange.

When complete, Medusa will span an impressive distance of over 8,700 kilometers, making it the longest cable in the Mediterranean Sea and providing enhanced North-South and East-West connectivity.

The construction has been awarded to industry leaders ASN and Elettra Tlc. The Medusa system is built on stateof-the-art 24-pair fiber optic open cable technology to meet the increasing broadband requirements in the region, with 20Tb/s minimum capacity per fiber pair.

equipment manufacturing and installation are planned to span over 2024 and 2025. Orange will provide landing infrastructures in France, Tunisia and Morocco.

By connecting North Africa and Southern Europe, as well as several of the Mediterranean islands to the mainland, including Sicily, Crete and Cyprus, the Medusa submarine cable system will create unprecedented opportunities for collaboration, innovation and economic development.

It will also provide an effective bridge between the Mediterranean and Atlantic regions, facilitating increased communication and cooperation across all these areas.

Medusa is committed to reducing the digital divide and this construction is an important step towards achieving this goal.

The construction of Medusa is funded by AFR-IX Telecom, Orange and the European Union through CEF (Connecting Europe Facilities) grants. This collaboration highlights the commitment of industry leaders and governmental organizations to contribute to a more connected and prosperous future for the Mediterranean region.

Elettra Tlc will promptly engage survey operations, while

China Mobile International Launches PEACE Submarine Cable Between Singapore & France The Pakistan and East Africa Connecting Europe submarine cable is a 15,000km undersea link that connects Singapore and France, and further extends to Malaysia & several European countries. It provides fast, open and flexible connectivity between Asia and Europe.

Sep 24, 2024

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n order to provide high-quality, low-latency and highsecurity bandwidth services between Asia and Europe, China Mobile International (CMI) has officially launched the PEACE submarine cable, a 15,000-km undersea link that connects Singapore and France, and further extends to Malaysia & several European countries.

and Europe in the form of PEACE, AAE-1 and SMW5 submarine cables, further upgrading the network availability and effectively meeting the bandwidth requirements.

The PEACE (Pakistan and East Africa Connecting Europe) cable was constructed in collaboration with 11 partners.

The company has further enabled itself to customize PoPto-PoP solutions with highly scalable and flexible bandwidth by utilizing the self-built ring systems of its fiber optic networks in Singapore, Malaysia and Europe that connect with data centers across the regions.

With the PEACE open cable solution, CMI aimed to provide neutral, flexible and non-differentiated interconnection services to carriers, OTT service providers and enterprises around the world.

Instead of relying on traditional north and south routes across Egypt, CMI has leveraged the New Egypt Crossing, utilizing fully diversified terrestrial cables across Egypt.

As per the company, this routing approach would circumvent the common bottlenecks faced by other submarine cables in the region.

CMI has now formed three robust routes between Asia www.wirecable.in

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In recent years, CMi has strengthened its international operations and developed large-scale consumers, carrier and enterprise businesses. With more than 90 submarine and terrestrial cable system resources connecting 78 countries, an international transmission bandwidth exceeding 150T, 310 overseas PoPs, and self-owned data centers in major cities such as Hong Kong, Singapore, London and Frankfurt, the company has become an allrounder, providing support to global partners.

Jul-Aug, 2024

NEWS

Mukand Limited Unveils Advanced 16 TPH Boiler to Power Future Growth, Sustainability The new installation marks a significant upgrade from the existing 14 TPH boiler, enhancing the plant’s capacity to generate steam at a rated pressure of 17.5 kg/cm². The increased capacity is designed to meet the growing steam demand and support Mukand’s future expansion plans.

Sep 11, 2024

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ukand Limited, a leading name in the steel and engineering industry, has proudly inaugurated its stateof-the-art 16 TPH boiler at its facility. This new installation marks a significant upgrade from the existing 14 TPH boiler, enhancing the plant’s capacity to generate steam at a rated pressure of 17.5 kg/cm². The increased capacity is designed to meet the growing steam demand and support Mukand’s future expansion plans.

Manufactured by Thermax Ltd., a trusted leader in boiler technology, this advanced boiler is equipped with the latest safety features and operates under a sophisticated PLC logic system. This automated control system manages burner sequence control, air and fuel ratio control, water level control, and steam pressure control, ensuring efficient and reliable operations.

goals. Additionally, a sound-absorbing silencer has been installed in the air blower’s suction line to minimize noise pollution, enhancing the working environment for operators.

This new boiler is a testament to Mukand Limited’s dedication to operational excellence, energy efficiency, and environmental responsibility. As the company continues to innovate and grow, it remains steadfast in its mission to lead the industry with sustainable practices and cutting-edge technology.

The boiler also incorporates an air preheater, designed to recover heat from the flue gas and preheat the combustion air. This feature significantly reduces specific fuel consumption, contributing to the company’s energy-saving

Construction To Begin Soon on UK’s Largest Subsea Connection Project The 500-km-long 525kV 2GW Eastern Green Link 2 is the largest subsea project of Great Britain, which will connect Peterhead in the north-east of Scotland to Drax on the east coast of England, providing electricity to two million homes.

Sep 4, 2024

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ollowing a green signal from the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem), the United Kingdom is set to begin construction on 525kV 2GW Eastern Green Link 2 (EGL2), the largest subsea project of Great Britain, which will connect Peterhead in the north-east of Scotland to Drax on the east coast of England.

The energy regulator’s nod to the costs associated with delivery of EGL2 is the key final approval in the regulatory process, which allows construction to get underway later this year. The 500-km-long high voltage direct current (HVDC) connection project is expected to become operational in 2029.

www.wirecable.in

In a separate development, Aberdeenshire Council recently granted final planning approval for a new HVDC converter station to be built near Peterhead, with construction to begin

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NEWS at the site near Boddam later this year.

Delivered as a joint venture by National Grid and SSEN Transmission, EGL2 will include the longest HVDC subsea cable in the UK. It is the country’s single largest electricity transmission project ever, providing enough electricity to power two million homes.

At a total expected nominal investment of around USD 5.64 billion, it is the single largest-ever investment in electricity transmission infrastructure in Great Britain and one of the most significant, strategic investments in energy infrastructure the country has seen in recent years.

Contracts have now been awarded to deliver the project,

including with Prysmian Group to supply around 1,000 km of cable and with Hitachi Energy and BAM for the supply of converter stations at either end of the subsea cable.

EGL2 is part of SSEN Transmission’s Pathway to 2030 programme, entailing an investment worth around USD 26.22 billion, to upgrade the electricity network in the north of Scotland. It will also unlock the country’s renewable energy resources in support of national net zero and energy security targets. Further, EGL2 is part of National Grid’s The Great Grid Upgrade, in which 17 major infrastructure projects will update the grid network, boosting energy security, affordability and helping England & Wales become more self-sufficient.

Airtel Partners with Italy’s Sparkle to Expand Capacity in Submarine Cable Sparkle will provide capacity on the Blue & Raman Submarine Cable Systems, which will connect India to Italy. With this additional capacity, Airtel will further diversify its global network across multiple international submarine cable systems to serve the growing demand for data services in India and neighbouring countries.

Sep 19, 2024

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parkle, the first international service provider in Italy and a leading global operator, has signed an agreement with Airtel Business - the B2B arm of Bharti Airtel (Airtel), one of India’s leading telecommunications service providers - for additional capacity on a diversified low latency route between Asia and Europe.

Under the agreement, Sparkle will provide capacity on the Blue & Raman Submarine Cable Systems, which will connect India to Italy. With this additional capacity, Airtel will further diversify its global network across multiple international submarine cable systems to serve the growing demand for data services in India and neighbouring countries.

Sparkle has collaborated with Google and others to build Blue and Raman Submarine Cable Systems: Blue will connect Italy, France, Greece and Israel, while Raman will connect Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Djibouti, Oman and India.

needs and data demand of our customers”.

“We are very pleased with this agreement, based on the new solution provided by Blue & Raman, that supports the digital growth of the region and strengthens our historical partnership with Bharti Airtel”, added Enrico Bagnasco, CEO of Sparkle.

The two companies will also work together on the development of new business opportunities and projects in the Indian sub-continent, leveraging their respective cable infrastructures.

Airtel Business is India’s leading and most trusted provider of ICT services with strategically located submarine cables, satellite networks and global networks spanning 400,000 Rkm (including IRU) across 50 countries and five continents.

Vani Venkatesh, CEO of Global Business at Airtel Business, said: “We are happy to partner with Sparkle as we further consolidate our leadership in global connectivity. This partnership will further diversify our network with large integrated capacities to meet the ever-growing connectivity

A major player in the telecommunication cable industry, Sparkle owns and manages a network of more than 600,000 km of fiber spanning from Europe to Africa and the Middle East, the Americas and Asia. Its sales force is active worldwide and distributed over 33 countries.

www.wirecable.in

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Jul-Aug, 2024

NEWS

Hartek Wins Multiple 765kV Projects From Power Grid Corporation The key orders include the supply and commissioning of high-voltage transmission projects at Indore and Kurnool. These projects align with India’s push towards enhancing power system reliability and boosting transmission capacity to power-deficit regions.

Aug 04, 2024

H

artek Group, a dominant player among EPC companies, has secured multiple 765kV projects from the Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL).

As per a release issued by the company, key orders include supply and commissioning of high-voltage transmission projects at Indore and Kurnool. The projects align with India’s push towards enhancing power system reliability and boosting transmission capacity to power-deficit regions.

12,53,040 MVA, providing reliable power to the nation.

With large power generation projects expected until 2030, these 765kV initiatives will play a crucial role in ensuring a stable power supply. Hartek aims to commission the projects within the stipulated time of 14-20 months as per the exact project scope.

The primary beneficiaries of 765kV projects are the transmission and renewable energy sectors, as these projects ensure efficient power transmission across regions to meet the growing electricity demand and effectively manage the national grid.

Mr. Sanjeev Gupta, Director - Technical of Hartek Group, stated, “We are proud to be a trusted partner of PGCIL in strengthening the National Grid. Hartek will continue to serve our customers with high voltage substations and power transmission solutions, establishing our presence in the 765kV segment. Our endeavor is to become a strong partner in building these high-capacity power corridors, the future of Indian power transmission infrastructure.”

This achievement follows Hartek Group’s recent triumph in the power and renewable energy sector, securing an EPC contract valued at INR 474 crore from a global renewables IPP, underscoring Hartek’s leading position in the industry.

The power transmission division of Hartek Power Private Limited, part of Hartek Group, has executed more than 350 HV projects to the highest standards of quality and efficiency.

According to the latest reports by the Central Electricity Authority, 765kV substations contribute approximately 23 percent, bringing India’s total transformation capacity to

NKT to Supply Onshore Power Cables for Transmission System in Belgium NKT will supply 545 km of high-voltage power cables to strengthen Belgium’s transmission grid.

Sep 12, 2024

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s electricity supply and demand increases across Europe, the underlying grid needs significant upgrades and modernization to keep up. According to the IEA, around 40 percent of Europe’s grid is over 40 years old, which is just 10 years short of its typical lifespan.

In Belgium, electricity consumption is expected to rise by 50 percent by 2032 while renewable energy sources are adding more power to the system. In 2023, Belgium generated a record-breaking 21.5 TWh (a 23 percent increase compared with 2022) from wind and solar generation, making up 28

www.wirecable.in

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Cologne Site

Jul-Aug, 2024

NEWS the coming years will be crucial and enormous. The broad scope of this order is the best testimony to this. We are therefore delighted with our continued collaboration with NKT, a partner with whom we are used to working with and who have demonstrated unfailing reliability and expertise, says Frederic Dunon, CEO Elia Transmission Belgium.

percent of the country’s electricity mix.

As part of Elia Transmission Belgium’s (ETB) Federal Development Plan for 2024-2034 to strengthen Belgium’s transmission grid, NKT will supply 545 km of high-voltage power cables.

The order has been received under an existing framework agreement between NKT and ETB and is adding to an order of 72km of 380kV AC onshore power cables recently awarded under the same agreement.

The power cables will be produced at NKT’s Cologne, Germany, and Czech Republic, factories, with delivery and installation planned from 2025-2027.

Demand for medium and high-voltage power cables is generally expected to continue to grow rapidly as transmission and distribution system operators upgrade and expand grids across Europe. To satisfy this growing demand, NKT is investing in additional production capacity and capabilities at its medium and high-voltage factories in Denmark, Sweden, Germany, Portugal and Czech Republic. The new capacity will be progressively operational from 2025-2027. ETB operates the electricity transmission network in Belgium, managing the high-voltage transmission grid which comprises close to 9,000 km of overhead lines and underground cables.

Electricity grids are the backbone of modern society, so upgrading and modernizing them to support future demand and loads is vital. We are proud of our long-term relationship with Elia Transmission Belgium to support their efforts to upgrade the Belgian grid. This is one of the largest orders in the segment 70 kV and 150 kV AC onshore NKT has ever received and shows the importance of the lower highvoltage levels in the transmission grid, says Lukas Sidler, EVP, HV Solutions Cologne.

With this order, we take an important step towards meeting our customers’ demands. Each step that will be taken in

Grid Telecom Joins Forces with Tamares Telecom to Strengthen Regional Digital Infrastructure The cable landing station will act as an interconnectivity node providing carrier and hosting facilities to anchor international subsea optical fiber cable systems from Europe and the Middle East crossing the Eastern Mediterranean, connecting Cyprus with Greece, Israel, Egypt and other East and West destinations.

Sep 9, 2024

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rid Telecom, a wholly-owned subsidiary and telecommunications vehicle of the Independent Power Transmission Operator (IPTO) of Greece, has signed a Heads of Agreement with Tamares Telecom, a leading fiberbased international communications & data service provider, network operator and a subsidiary of Aluma Infrastructure Fund, regarding joint participation in Tamares Telecom Cyprus, a fully licensed operator in Cyprus and owner of a cable landing station and landing infrastructure on the western coast of Cyprus.

This strategic alliance marks a significant milestone in advancing the regional digital infrastructure and fostering sustainable growth in the data-driven economy.

The cable landing station will act as an interconnectivity node providing carrier and hosting facilities to anchor international subsea optical fiber cable systems from Europe and the Middle East crossing the Eastern Mediterranean, connecting Cyprus with Greece, Israel, Egypt and other East and West destinations.

www.wirecable.in

Grid Telecom and Tamares Telecom will offer, through their subsidiary Tamares Telecom Cyprus, a state-of-theart infrastructure for the secure landing and operation of subsea cable systems in Cyprus, including services for housing the power feeding and subsea line terminating equipment, as well as other mission-critical equipment for interconnection and peering of optical, Ethernet and IP data traffic.

The strategic partnership between Grid Telecom and Tamares Telecom will bring advanced data transport solutions to the market, creating a new telecommunications corridor between Europe and the Middle East, facilitating the termination and efficient interconnection of subsea cable systems to their customers and partners. Leveraging on the strategic position of Cyprus, it will create a carrier neutral openaccess hub with interconnection data center facilities through alternative low latency paths to major destinations in Greece and Europe, including the Balkan region, Turkey, Egypt, the north coast of Africa, Israel, and the Arabian Peninsula.

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Jul-Aug, 2024

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Wire & Cable India’s Top Cable Companies in India is a biennial survey of all operating wire and cable manufacturing enterprises of India to come up with a ranking list based on various key parameters. The list is a comprehensive list of India’s largest, most powerful wire and cable companies, as measured by production, turnover, net profit, growth rate (in both turnover & net profit), and net worth. We use a composite score that weighs these five metrics equally, as one barometer alone would present a biased and incomplete account.

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