Giving Back

GIVING BACK

Manufacturers giving back to their community in a multitude of ways.

GIVING BACK

Manufacturers giving back to their community in a multitude of ways.

PRIMARY WIRE WIPE

An economical way to remove copper dust, excessive oil lubricant, dirt, and dust from primary wire or strand.

CCC LINE CARD

• Stranding & Cabling Lines

• Take-Ups / Pay-Offs / Coilers

• Fully Automatic Re-Wind Lines

• Complete Extrusion Lines

WIRE RANGE: Up to 0.098 in. (2.5 mm.) diameter

MAX. F/M: Approx. 8000 ft./m.

MATERIALS: Ferrous or nonferrous material / tinned, bare, or plated

FLOOR SPACE: 18” x 27”

• Reduce Spark Faults

• Improve Insulation Bond

• Easy to Install

• Improve Insulation Concentricity

• Increase Pre-Heater Sheave Life

• Environmentally Friendly

• Ultrasonic, Wet Blast, and Various Mechanical Cleaning Systems

• Drum Packers, Air Wipes, and Taping Lines

• Forming / Welding / Sizing Lines

• Wire Drawing and Shaving

• Semi and Auto Re-Spooling

MACHINE: GEO’S KFP SYSTEM – PRINT REMOVAL

Prevents operator contact with the product; Containment of any cleaning solutions needed for print removal.

• Removal of misprints from cables and pipes/tubes

• Utilizes both spiral brushes and nonwoven tapes

• Standard version for 5 mm to 25 mm (others upon request)

• Line speed: Varies for application, max 80 m/min

• Standard Dimensions (LxDxH): 2000 x 750 x 1800 mm

LARCHMONT OFFICE:

7 Woodland Avenue, Larchmont, NY 10538 Tel: 914-834-8865 | Fax: 914-834-8903 info@cableconsultantscorp.com

CINCINNATI OFFICE: 5533 Vogel Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45239 Tel: 914-240-6033 mmcclaugherty@cableconsultantscorp.com

There’s no seasonal limitations for giving back, but December is a most appropriate time to recognize the spirt ... and if you’ve been on the sidelines, to consider whether this should be your story.

The WJI return to manufacturers “giving back” found that there is no lack of companies that have stories to share. Also, that the goodwill that comes from employees participating in community causes often has a way of bringing good news for their employers as well.

• Feature: The year to come: Best of Extruders

• Sector Update: Bunchers

• Preview: wire & Tube Mexico 2025

• Also, Report to Members, new WAI officers

Accel International tour excelled

Members of the Association’s New England Chapter who visited the Cheshire, Connecticut, plant of Accel International on Nov. 7 report that they were impressed. Company CEO Tony Ho discussed the operations of his company, and prior to that there was a reception that featured gourmet snacks, a coffee cart from Green Kettle Coffee Company and lots of interaction.

Giving back can be a family experience

The feature in this issue shows how giving back can provide a memorable experience for both those who receive as well as those who help provide. Above, Sequel Wire & Cable COO/CFO Denise Feece stands behind her five-year-old nephew, Jaxon Sauer, whose mom, Amanda Sauer is Feece’s sister. Also doing line duty was President Richard Carr.

PARAMOUNT DIE

DRAWING SYSTEMS FOR THE WIRE INDUSTRY

A DIE FOR EVERY JOB

THE WIRE DRAWING SOLUTION

Wmiiiiiiiiifiilii LONGER LIFE

Efficiency drives economics. Using Paramount's Paraloc™ Pressure Systems, increase drawing speed by 45% with same or higher wire quality.

Precise internal geometry and innovative materials yield superior die life. Paramount Dies provide cost effective world class die technology.

HmiiinWWW&I LASER FOCUSED

See the values Paramount's cuttingedge dies, meticulous engineering, and continuous improvement can add to your process.

Some thoughts on the ‘giving back’ feature

A lot can be said about why a company (or employee) should want to give back to their community ... and this be one of those times when it is best for an editor to let others have their say.

“You may not have saved a lot of money in your life, but if you have saved a lot of heartaches for other folks, you are a pretty rich man.” – Seth Parker

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” — Mahatma Gandhi

“As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands — one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.” — Audrey Hepburn

“If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.” — Dalai Lama

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, What are you doing for others?” — Martin Luther King, Jr.

“If you don’t have any charity in your heart, you have the worst kind of heart trouble.” — Bob Hope

“The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” — William Shakespeare

“It’s easy to make a buck. It’s a lot tougher to make a difference. ” – Tom Brokaw

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” — Winston Churchill

“Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.” — Muhammad Ali

“I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world.” – Mother Teresa

“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” – Dr. Seuss

Mark Marselli Editor-in-Chief, editor@wirenet.org

PUBLISHER Steven J. Fetteroll

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mark Marselli

DIRECTOR OF SALES Shannon Timme

DIRECTOR OF INTERNATIONAL SALES & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Anna Bzowski

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS

Janice E. Swindells

WAI PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE

Dane Armendariz, consultant

Ferruccio Bellina, TKT Group/President ACIMAF

Michael Crowle, QED Wire Lines Inc.

Tom Moran, consultant

Giulio Properzi, Continuus Properzi

Willem Sundblad, Oden Technologies Inc.

John N. Tomaz, Stolberger

Robert Wild, Niehoff Endex North America

W.T. Bigbee, Encore Wire Corp.

TECHNICAL ADVISORS

John Drummond, Scotia Group

R. M. Shemenski, RMS Consulting, Inc.

Images: Adobe Stock.

Wire Journal International (ISSN-0277-4275) published monthly by The Wire Journal, Inc., is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Wire Association International, Inc., which is located at 71 Bradley Road, Suite 9, Madison, CT 06443-2662, USA, and can be contacted at tel. 203-453-2777; fax 203-453-8384; Internet wirenet.org; e-mail editor@wirenet.org. Address all correspondence concerning advertising production, editorial and circulation to the above address. WJI is printed in the USA.

Subscription rates: $110 per year, USA; $120 per year, Canada and Mexico; other countries, $140 per year (includes air mail). Back copies: $10 WAI members, $15 non-members. Periodicals postage paid at Madison, CT 06443, USA, and at additional offices.

Wire Journal International grants photocopy permission to libraries and others registered with Copyright Clearance Center (CCC), 21 Congress St., Salem, MA 01970, USA, for a fee of $0.50 per article. Payments should be sent directly to the CCC. Requests for bulk orders or reprints should be sent to the Wire Journal International, 71 Bradley Road, Suite 9, Madison, CT 06443-2662, USA.

© 2024 by Wire Journal, Inc. All rights reserved. The Publisher of WJI assumes no responsibility for the validity of manufacturers’ claims made herein. Back issues of WJI are on microfilm and available from University Microfilm, 300 North Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48106, USA. Phone: 313-761-4700.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Wire Journal International, 71 Bradley Rd., Suite 9, Madison, CT 06443, USA.

FEB. 11-13, 2025: wire & Tube Mexico 2025 Monterrey, Mexico. The second staging of wire Mexico will be held in the Cintermex. Contact: Messe Düsseldorf North America, tel. 312-781-5180, info@mdna.com, www.mdna.com.

APRIL 9-12, 2025: Eurasia Fair

Istanbul, Turkey. Formerly called WireTech Istanbul Fair, Eurasia Fair will be held, alongside Tube Asia, at the Tüyap Fair Convention and Congress Center. Contact: Messe Düsseldorf North America, tel. 312-781-5180, info@mdna.com, www.mdna.com.

MAY 9-12, 2025: Electrical Wire Processing

Technology Expo

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA. Produced by the Wiring Harness Manufacturer’s Association® and global trade association/IPC, this event will be held at the Baird Center. Contact: Kim DiCianni, IPC, tel. 847-597-2823, kimdicianni@ipc.org.

MAY 12-15, 2025: : WAI Global Continuous Casting Forum

Atlanta, Georgia, USA WAI’s fourth casting forum for copper and aluminum will be held alongside Interwire 2025 at the Georgia World Congress Center.

MAY 13-15, 2025: Interwire & WAI’s 95th Annual Convention

Atlanta, Georgia, USA. To be held at the Georgia World Congress Center, this event includes the trade show, technical programs and WAI’s 95th Annual Convention. For more details, go to www.interwire25.com.

SEPT. 7-9, 2025: wire Middle East Africa

Cairo, Egypt. This event will be held for the second time as part of METAL & STEEL EGYPT at the Egypt International Exhibition Center. Contact: Messe

Düsseldorf North America, tel. 312-781-5180, info@mdna.com, www.mdna.com.

SEPT. 17-19, 2025: wire Southeast Asia 2025

Bangkok, Thailand. This Messe Düsseldorf event is to be held at the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre. Contact: Messe Düsseldorf North America, tel. 312-781-5180, info@mdna.com, www.mdna.com.

OCT. 14, 2025: Wire & Cable Poland 2025

Organized by AIMAF, the AGH University of Krakow, IWMA and WAI, look for more information on this International Technical Conference in future issues. The event website is www.wirecable25.com.

OCT. 27-30, 2025: 74th IWCS Cable & Connectivity Industry Forum

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA. Contact: IWCS, tel. 717-993-9500, www.iwcs.org. WAI will be exhibiting at this event, so look for us there.

NOV. 4-6, 2025: Cable & Wire Fair 2025

New Delhi, India. This event is to be held at the Pragati Maidan. Contact: Tulip 3P Media Pvt. Ltd.: tel. +91-01244250148, info@wirecable.in, www.cablewirefair.com.

APRIL 13-17, 2026: wire Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf, Germany. To be held at the Messe Fairgrounds. Contact: Messe Düsseldorf North America, tel. 312-781-5180, info@mdna.com, www.mdna.com.

NOV. 1-4, 2026: 75th IWCS Cable & Connectivity Industry Forum

Orlando, Florida, USA. Contact: IWCS, tel. 717-993-9500, www.iwcs.org. WAI will be exhibiting at this event, so look for us there.

WAI EVENTS

MAY 12-15, 2025: WAI Global Continuous Casting Forum

Atlanta, Georgia, USA WAI’s fourth casting forum for copper and aluminum will be held alongside Interwire 2025 at the Georgia World Congress Center. For more details, go to www.interwire25.com.

MAY 13-15, 2025: Interwire & WAI’s 95th Annual Convention

Atlanta, Georgia, USA To be held at the Georgia World Congress Center, this event includes the trade show, technical programs and WAI’s 95th Annual Convention.

For more details, contact Member Services Mgr. Corey Flynn, tel. 203-453-2777, ext. 128, cflynn@wirenet.org.

INDUSTRY NEWS

reports of industry activity

Hellenic Cables to supply U.S. offshore wind farm and Netherlands grid project

Hellenic Cables, based in Greece, recently announced that it would supply cable for two projects, one in the U.S. and other for the Netherlands.

Hellenic Cables will be supplying the cable for the Leading Light Wind project.

A press release said that Hellenic Cables will be a supplier to the Leading Light Wind project, a large U.S. offshore wind project located over 40 miles off the coast of New Jersey. The company will provide 65 km of 132 kV inter-array cables for Invenergy, the project’s lead developer, and co-developer energyRe. It noted that Leading Light Wind is the only American-led project in the New York Bight lease area. The delivery of the inter-array cables is scheduled for 2030, with the production of certain cable components starting immediately at the Hellenic Cable plant in Corinth.

Hellenic Cables is part of Cenergy Holdings. “Our contribution ... underscores (our) commitment to providing pioneering solutions that support the energy transition

and enhance sustainability on a global scale,” said Cenergy Holdings CEO Alexis Alexiou.

Hellenic Cables also reported that it has a long-term agreement with Enexis Netbeheer (Enexis), one of the Netherland’s largest electricity network operators. Enexis is using eight cable suppliers as part of a €2.3 billion investment program to enhance power distribution infrastructure across five Dutch provinces.

Hellenic Cables will provide a portion of the power cable that will be needed over the next 12 years. That was estimated at 40,000 km of medium-voltage cables and 36,000 km of low-voltage cables to modernize local grids. “This project not only strengthens our presence in the Dutch power distribution market but also represents a sizeable step in Europe’s clean energy transition,” said Hellenic Cables General Manager Kostas Savvakis.

Mattr Corp. enters agreement to acquire AmerCable from Nexans for $280 million

Canada’s Mattr Corp. has agreed to acquire AmerCable Incorporated (AmerCable), a globally recognized U.S. manufacturer of highly engineered wire and cable solutions that will be incorporated into Mattr’s Connection Technologies reporting segment

A press release said that the deal, subject to customary closing conditions, is expected to close by the end of the year. AmerCable, which is part of Nexans, is based in the U.S. in Arkansas, where it manufactures electrical power, control and instrumentation cables for harsh environments.

The company has some 300 employees and reported 2023 sales of $248 million.

“This agreement aligns with our strategy to refocus on Electrification and simplify the Group,” said Nexans CEO Christopher Guérin. He noted that AmerCable, acquired in 2012, has been a key pillar of Nexans’s Industry & Solutions portfolio. Over the last decade, the business has gone through a significant transformation, and in the last three years, with the implementation of Nexans’s SHIFT program, it has been brought to its full potential and full capacity. “It was therefore the appropriate time to look for a new owner that could invest and grow the business further as our cycle was successfully completed.”

“The pending acquisition of AmerCable will be a significant step forward in (our) strategy to enhance our wire and

cable business exposure within the large and growing U.S. market,” said Mattr President Mike Reeves.

Mattr came into existence in 2023 by the rebranding of Shawflex Ltd. to reflect the company’s transformation from an energy services organization into a materials technology company. It is split between a composite systems segment (pipe for oil and gas) and connection technologies, which include Shawflex’s highly specified custom wire and cable products for complex applications and extreme environments as well as shrink tubing products and accessories.

Reeves observed that the transaction will broaden his company’s existing portfolio and add medium-voltage electrical power, control and instrumentation cable solutions. That will enhance North American manufacturing capacity, and allow Mattr to better serve customers in Canada and the U.S.

Last year Mattr announced that it would relocate its Shawflex business to a larger, more efficient facility in Vaughan, Ontario, in a phased manner expected to be completed in 2025, with full production in 2026.

WIRE & CABLE IN THE NEWS

Big funding for more connectivity lands at a tiny Maine island

Funding from a huge federal government program has trickled its way to one of Maine’s tiniest islands: Isle au Haut. On Nov. 10, life changed for the approximately 70 full-time residents: their 12-sq mile home attained major-league connectivity access, courtesy of a 10 km fiber optic cable submarine cable provided by SubCom.

A $1.2 million grant from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the state of Maine as part of a larger $28 million grant administered by the Maine Connectivity Authority went to the tiny island. Located six miles off the coast of Maine in Penobscot Bay, it is accessible by a 45-minute boat ride from Stonington. A portion of the island is owned and managed by Acadia National Park. The business end is that the project was one of many that has been supported by NTIA’s broadband fund-

ing initiatives, such as the Broadband Infrastructure Program (BIP) or the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. These programs were established under the NTIA, which has allocated significant funds to improve broadband access nationwide.

The BEAD Program allocated $42.45 billion to support broadband deployment projects across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories. This funding aims to

provide high-speed internet access to unserved and underserved areas, including remote communities like Isle au Haut. NTIA oversees other funding initiatives, such as the Digital Equity Act Programs, which provide $2.75 billion to promote digital inclusion. To date, working with states and territories, NTIA has made available nearly $37 billion, some of which made its way to the 12 sq miles of Isle au Haut.

Due to the variable and sometimes rocky nature of the Maine seabed, SubCom provided its state-of-theart SL17 Special Application (SPA) fiber optic cable to ensure long-term survivability. SubCom CEO David Coughlan said he was very pleased to supply the cable for this vital project. “Connecting communities is what we’re all about. And as a New England company, it’s a special opportunity to take part in connecting a place we know and love so well.”

Maine’s Isle au Haut lighthouse at Robinson Point.

HELUKABEL has expanded its operations in India with a new production facility

HELUKABEL has launched a new production facility in India that will make control cables and single conductors.

A press release said that the company, which has logistics and sales facilities in the cities of Mumbai and Punej, now will produce cable at the new factory of HELUKABEL India, which is located near the city of Gandhinagar in the western part of the country. It will supply the subcontinent’s quickly growing market going into the future.

“India, the most populous country on earth, is experiencing a technological and economic boom,” said HELUKABEL Group Managing Director Marc Luksch. “With this new production facility, we are happy that we are now able to serve our local customers more quickly, comprehensively and flexibly in the future.”

The production facility has some 30 employees that produce cables made of conductor stranding classes 1-5, with and without braided shielding or steel wire armoring. Many of the products will be made to the Indian BIS standard, which was an important criterion for cables being installed in machines and equipment destined for sale to Indian companies. In the future, cables will also be produced according to the German VDE standard. “HELUKABEL is in an ideal position to secure its place in India’s growing market moving into the future.

Gaon Cable furthers U.S. presence by buying out a production subsidiary

South Korea’s Gaon Cable announced that it has secured 100% ownership of LSCUS, its distribution cable production subsidiary in Tarboro, North Carolina, USA, by buying out its joint venture partner, LS Cable & System. A press release said that the acquisition is part of Gaon Cable’s strategic plan to strengthen its localization capabilities in the U.S. market and boost its competitiveness in the global power infrastructure market. LSCUS was created in 2017 when the LS Group acquired the Energy division from Superior Essex to create a subsidiary under the LS Cable & System umbrella. LS C&S had an 82% stake and

Gaon Cable an 18% stake. Gaon Cable’s board approved the acquisition of LS Cable’s 82% stake.

The acquisition “marks a pivotal point in Gaon Cable’s efforts to enhance its U.S. localization strategy,” the release said. It noted that Gaon Cable plans to strengthen its ultrahigh voltage cable business in collaboration with LS Cable and is set to enter the submarine cable market.

“We will enhance our competitiveness by developing products suitable for the local market and establishing a stable supply chain,” said Gaon Cable CEO Jeong Hyun. “The acquisition will serve as a crucial foundation for global market entry ... to expand overseas operations with a focus on North America.”

The 294,000-sq-foot Tarboro plant opened in 2012. It has a 128.5 ft. continuous catenary vulcanization (CCV) tower with machinery to produce medium-voltage cables, with upside capabilities to produce high-voltage cables.

LS Cable & System develops submarine cable for floating offshore wind project

South Korea’s LS Cable & System (LS Cable) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Norway’s Equinor to cooperate on the 750 MW Bandibuli/Firefly floating offshore wind project in South Korea.

A press release said that the collaboration aims to support the development of one of the world’s largest planned floating offshore wind farms, which is projected to deliver up to 750 MW capacity by 2030, approximately 70 km off the coast of Ulsan. The Bandibuli project is one of South Korea’s first large-scale floating offshore wind initiatives that is particularly suited to deeper waters.

The MoU was signed at the BIXPO 2024 event held at the Kim Dae-jung Convention Centre in Gwangju. LS Cable & System notes that it developed South Korea’s first dynamic submarine cable for floating offshore wind.

The wind farm recently entered into a Transmission Service Agreement with Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO). The project calls for the deployment of Siemens Gamesa 15 MW wind turbine via an agreement that was signed in October.

Alaska’s SEALink South cable project completed a year ahead of schedule

Alaska Power & Telephone Company (AP&T) has completed the company’s “SEALink South” submarine fiber optic cable project, the latest segment in its growing southeast Alaska broadband network.

A press release said that the AP&T team completed the installation one year ahead of schedule. SEALink South includes a submarine cable system interconnecting Ketchikan with the communities of Hollis and Coffman Cove, beachfront cable landing sites, various terrestrial facilities, and associated transport equipment.

Staff and guests at HELUKABEL’s new plant in western India.

Norddeutsche Seekabelwerke, a subsidiary of Prysmian Group, provided the cable for SEALink in 2022 and it also provided the cable for SEALink South. That project was noteworthy as it represented the first- ever fiber optic link to continental North America. That project required 214 miles of submarine fiber optic cable from Prince of Wales Island to Juneau, with an overland crossing on Mitkof Island through the community of Petersburg. It was funded by a $21.5 million grant from the USDA Rural Utility Services, and more than $7 million in matching funds from APTW. It was completed two years ahead of schedule.

The SEALink South Project uses 101 miles of submarine fiber optic cable to expand connectivity in Alaska’s Alexander Archipelago region, enhancing resilience through diverse routing options and a fiber “ring” around Prince of Wales Island. SEALink South was funded via a $29.3m USDA ReConnect grant, plus additional matching funds supplied by AP&T.

In addition to supporting AP&T’s needs as a rural service provider, SEALink is available as a regional resource to assist carriers with transport and routing diversity requirements. This includes indigenous stakeholders working to develop tribal broadband solutions who have actively supported SEALink throughout the course of its development.

A Prysmian subsidiary has supplied the cable for both legs of an Alaskan fiber optic cable project.

Taihan wins U.S. power cable contract that could be worth $65 million over 3 years

South Korea’s Taihan Cable & Solution Co. (Taihan) has secured a contract through its U.S. subsidiary, TE USA, to supply power cable in the western U.S.

Per a report in The Korea Economic Daily, Taihan will supply power cables worth about $21.8 million a year for three years. Earlier this year, the company won a similar large supply project, and the total value of contracts won this year is $54.5 million, the highest amount since the company entered the North American market.

Multiple manufacturers to supply 5,200 km of underground power cable for France

RTE, the transmission system operator (TSO) for France, has contracted with five suppliers–Prysmian, Nexans, NKT-SolidAI and Hellenic Cables–to secure underground power cables supplies for its projects through 2028.

A press release said that the collective project will cost almost €1 billion for the supply and installation of around 5,200 km of underground cables for voltage levels ranging from 90,000 to 400,000 volts, with the cost for the cables at €668 million euros, including €300 million for cable installation and assembly services.

One third of the cables will be made in France at Prysmian plants in Gron (Yonne) and Montereau-FaultYonne (Seine-et-Marne) and the Nexans plant in Bourgen-Bresse (Ain). With this commitment, RTE is reserving almost all of the French production capacity still available until 2028, for the production of more than 1,700 km of cables. The release noted that the order to develop and strengthen the existing French electricity transmission network has allowed Prysmian to invest in a new cable production line in Seine-et-Marne.

Prysmian CEO Massimo Battaini said that the order “represents an exceptional opportunity for Prysmian to actively contribute to the local economic and social development of our sites in France with continued investments aimed at leveraging know-how and technologies available on the territory and creating new jobs.”

“Nexans is proud to put its expertise at the service of this common ambition for a more reliable electricity grid and a stronger industry,” said Nexans CEO Christopher Guérin.

“We are excited to continue the long-term collaboration with RTE as they modernize and strengthen France’s power grid and support the transition to renewable energy,” said NKT President and CEO Claes Westerlind, who noted that his company has been working with RTE since 2011. Of note, in June, NKT acquired SolidAl, which was one of the five cable suppliers cited in the press release.

“We are honored to be part of RTE’s ambitious initiative, which not only strengthens France’s energy infrastructure but also emphasizes sustainable, European-made solutions for the regional electricity transmission network,” said Alexis Alexiou, CEO of Cenergy Holdings, which owns Hellenic Cables.

KnitMesh machine targeting a ‘green’ use sets a record for knit wire mesh width

U.K.-based KnitMesh Technologies (KnitMesh) reports that it has created a wire knitting machine that is able to manufacture wire mesh six feet across, a width that the company reports is an industry record.

A press release said that the model was specifically designed to produce mesh as wide as four meters to exacting tolerances to produce “green” hydrogen from water. The process “splits” water into separate hydrogen and oxygen molecules using an electrolysis process, and having access to larger size wire mesh provides economies of scale. The KnitMesh model can process wire from 0.10 mm to 0.50 mm in special metals and alloys, including stainless steels, nickel and coated wires. The company notes that it designed and produced the new system, as well as other bespoke equipment.

Asked by WJI whether the record width related just to the new demand, and if it could have been made at an earlier time, and possibly even wider, the company responded, “Theoretically, it could have been done before, but practical experience gained on recent large knitting machines has enabled this step.” As for the width, it observed, “Any width is possible, but any larger and the machines would require significant development of new components, such as bearings. The size of the new machine (we made) meets customer requirements for the foreseeable future.”

KnitMesh Managing Director Peter Evans said that he is enthusiastic about the company’s role in shaping a carbonfree future through hydrogen fuel technologies. “We see

KnitMesh European Sales Manager Thierry Chambard at the company’s booth at Hydrogen Technology Expo Europe.

hydrogen fuel as a key component of a sustainable future, and KnitMesh Technologies is proud to be a major supplier to this industry. We are actively expanding our business through recruitment and new equipment, and we foresee a bright future for our hydrogen division.”

In October, the company exhibited at Hydrogen Technology Expo Europe, held in Hamburg Messe in Hamburg, Germany. There they showcased their range of knitted wire mesh products, such as gas diffusion layers, porous transport layers, and mist eliminators. “The products garnered significant interest from attendees, reinforcing KnitMesh Technologies’ position as a leader in manufacturing advanced knitted wire mesh solutions.”

Founded in 1957, KnitMesh also has a plant in India, and activity there is expected to increase. “We are working with several Indian customers who will require meshes for green hydrogen electrolysers, and when they reach the series production stage we will install equipment at our Indian plant so we can ensure local supply.”

KnitMesh notes that wire mesh for creating “green” hyrdogen is a world-wide product. “Our main markets are currently Europe and North America, and we already supply similar electrolyzer meshes to customers in North America. As demand grows, we are likely to open a plant in North America.”

Hellenic Cables to supply underground and submarine cables for Greece project

Hellenic Cables, the cables segment of Cenergy Holdings, will supply and install approximately 38 km of 150kV submarine and land cables for a Greek project.

A press release said that the turnkey contract is from IPTO (Independent Power Transmission Operator), which is responsible for the operation, monitoring, maintenance, and development of the Hellenic Electricity Transmission System. It calls for 50 kV XLPE underground and submarine cables to enhance the electrical interconnections between Kefalonia-Zakynthos and Lefkada-Kefalonia, the Ionian islands in Greece.

The project is scheduled for completion in 2026. The submarine cables will be manufactured at the Hellenic Cables plant in Corinth, Greece. The capacity of that facility has recently been expanded, and it can manufacture continuous lengths for some of the longest submarine cables. The land cables will be manufactured at the company’s plant in Thiva, Greece, that has also seen a capacity expansion investment program.

Taihan to build 2nd submarine cable plant adjacent to its current 1 in South Korea

Taihan Cable & Solution (Taihan Cable) announced that it has signed an agreement with KG Steel at Hoban Park in Seocho-gu, Seoul, South Korea, that will provide Taihan

Cable with the land it need to build a second submarine cable factory.

Per an on-line report in Korea IT Times, a signing ceremony was held that included Vice Chairman Song Jongmin and President Park Sung-hee of Taihan Cable. They were with management from the parent companies, including Kim Dae-heon, planning president of Hoban Group, and Kwak Jeong-hyun, strategy president of KG Group. The event emphasized both groups’ commitment to strengthening business cooperation and establishing a forward-looking collaboration model. “Through the purchase of convertible bonds, KG Steel will receive 110 billion won (approximately $78.5 million) for the land, reflecting its high valuation of Taihan Cable’s potential

growth in the submarine cable sector and the belief that their collaboration will generate future value.”

The acquired site, approximately 215,000 sq m, is located in the Godeok District, Asan National Industrial Complex in Dangjin, South Chungcheong Province. It is adjacent to Taihan Cable’s existing first submarine cable factory. This area forms Korea’s largest cable production cluster, close to Taihan Cable’s major production facilities—the Dangjin Cable and Solution Factories. Taihan Cable plans to produce submarine cables, underground cables, and power and communication-related products in this integrated location, maximizing synergy effects.

The new factory will include a VCV tower for producing 620kV class HVDC submarine cables and external network submarine cables. “Furthermore, both companies intend to bolster their collaboration in the North American market, leveraging their years of experience and expertise to explore opportunities for increased exports to the U.S. and joint business ventures.”

Ducab to double the size of its UAE plant

Ducab Metals Business has signed an agreement that will see the company more than double the size of its existing plant in the UAE’s Khalifa Economic Zone.

From l-r, the local mayor/governor with Hoban Group Chairman Kim Sun-kyu and Taihan Cable Vice Chairman Song Jong-min after signing the agreement. Taihan photo.

regional metals industry.

A press release said that the 50-year lease agreement, signed by Khaled Lootah, chairman of Ducab Group, will result in Ducab Metals Business adding 51,015 sqm to its existing 50,000 sqm facility in KEZAD. The expansion will enable the company to increase its production capacity of copper and aluminum industrial products. This expansion brings Ducab Metals Business’s presence in KEZAD to over 100,000 sqm.

The project will provide new jobs, further the company’s R&D work and enhance Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a hub for the new varieties of advanced metal products.

As a stand-alone company within Ducab Group, DMB is the largest such company in the region. The company has annual capacity of 180,000 metric tons of copper rod and 50,000 metric tons of aluminum rod and overhead conductor capacity. DMB also designs solutions that will be manufactured in Ducab’s existing copper rod and aluminium factories, both of which are based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Alcatel Submarine Networks is now officially a French-owned business

It took eight years, but the ownership of Alcatel Submarine Networks (ASN)—the submarine telecom cable production and installation subsidiary of Finnish equipment manufacturer Nokia—has finally been resolved, with the owner being the French government.

A press release said that on Nov. 5, Antoine Armand, the French economy minister, and Marc Ferracci, the French industry minister, signed a contract to acquire 80% of the capital at the company’s plant in Calais. ASN was a subsidiary of Alcatel, then Alcatel-Lucent, until it was acquired by the Finnish group Nokia in 2016. “The proposed sale of ASN to the French State is the result of extensive discussions which concluded that the French State is the most relevant custodian of ASN,” Nokia said, in a statement.

Ducab Metals Business reported plans for a 51,000 sqm expansion of its facility in KEZAD that will enhance th emirate’s standing in the

Per a report in Le Monde, the transaction is worth around €100 million, with the state taking on ASN’s €250 million debt. Nokia will retain a 20% interest that can be bought out later.

An on-line report said that Nokia had been seeking to divest ASN since it completed its Alcatel-Lucent purchase in 2016. “At one stage it even looked like Nokia was resigned to hanging on to the company itself. But ultimately, Alcatel Submarine Networks is a strategic asset for the French state and as such the government has decided to put its hand in its pocket, regardless of the distraction of an upcoming election.”

Oman to invest in new plant

Oman Cables Industry SAOG, a cable manufacturer based at Al Rusayl Industrial City in Muscat, reports that it will make a substantial investment in its subsidiary, Oman Aluminum Processing Industries SPC (OAPIL), to establish a production facility in Suhar, the capital of Oman.

A press release said that the expansion is aimed at manufacturing advanced composite core conductors. Board Chairman Cinzia Farise said that the project would expand OAPIL’s operational scope as well as increase profitability and diversification for Oman Cables.

Founded in 2008, OAPIL has played a key role in Oman’s aluminum and electrical transmission sectors. The new facility will strengthen the company’s presence in international markets, especially in energy infrastructure sector. Part of Prysmian, Oman Cables Industry (SAOG) has offices in Oman, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and KSA, and an extensive network across the Middle East, Africa, Turkey, Russia and India (MEART) region.

Nexans restructures its specialty industrial cable business, and gives it a new name

Nexans announced that the company has separated the business of its specialty industrial cable operations, formerly known as Nexans Industry Solutions & Projects, and renamed it Lynxeo.

A press release said that the separation will provide increased clarity in the market, strengthening Lynxeo’s role as a fully integrated player, serving a diversified range of critical infrastructure industries including railways, rolling stock, automation, shipbuilding, wind, aerospace and healthcare. “Today’s announcement is yet another step in the continued successful execution by Nexans of its ‘Electrify the Future’ strategy,” it said.

With 2,000 employees in nine countries and annual standard sales of more than €700 million euros, Lynxeo is “a powerhouse in specialty industrial cables.” The move will allow Lynxeo to further enhance its role in critical industrial segments. It has a heritage of more than 100 years serving industrial champions, and boasts a global manufacturing presence in Europe Asia, and the USA.

GEON expands Mexico/USA capabilities

GEON Performance Solutions, a global supplier of performance polymer solutions, announced that it has started up a new thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) manufacturing line at its Ramos Arizpe, Coahuila, Mexico facility.

A press release said that the new line will produce a range of polymer compounds, including TPE and thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), supporting GEON’s strategic expansion of its polymer capabilities and enhancing its longstanding leadership in the commercialization of polyolefins. This expansion builds on the technology and expertise obtained from GEON’s acquisition of PolymaxTPE in December 2023, and is a response to significant customer demand for these premium materials.

The addition of TPE to GEON’s portfolio of performance polymers drove investment in the company’s Dyersburg, Tennessee, facility where TPE and TPO manufacturing capabilities were commissioned to support growing customer demand. With TPE manufacturing facilities in Mexico, U.S. and Nantong, Jiangsu, China, GEON is well-positioned to serve customers globally with a simplified supply chain across a diverse range of industries.

The Ramos Arizpe facility began operations in 2003. GEON Performance Solutions has 12 production plants.

Messe Düsseldorf has stake in Turkey event

The WireTech Istanbul Fair and the Tube & Steel Istanbul Fair, which were first held in 2019, and saw the participation of Messe Duesseldorf in 2023, will return in 2025 with new names: Eurasia Fair and Tube Eurasia Fair.

“After deciding to work together to combine the experience and expertise in trade fair organization of the Tüyap Fair Organization Group with Messe Düsseldorf’s strength in the European market, we had a very successful premiere at wire and Tube Eurasia,” said Messe Düsseldorf GmbH Executive Director Bernd Jablonowski. “Our aim is to take this success one step further in 2025. We really believe in Türkiye, particularly in its potential in the construction and energy industries.”

AT&T and Corning enter supply pact

AT&T has agreed to a multi-year, $1 billion deal to buy next-generation fiber, cable and connectivity products from Corning.

A press release said that AT&T, the largest fiber internet provider in the U.S., is expanding its network to bring fiber to more people and places across the country. As Corning’s largest customer with preferential volume status for Corning’s connectivity solutions, AT&T can accelerate its network expansion and enhance network performance while minimizing deployment costs. The agreement builds on the decades-long collaboration between the two. n

PATENT REPORT

recently approved U.S. patents for wire and cable

Connector for a flat flexible cable

U.S. Patent No.: 12,115,323

Patent date: Oct. 15, 2024 Filed: Dec. 30, 2020

Assignee: Asahi Intec Co., Ltd., Japan,

Inventor: Satoshi Yonezawa

A guide wire includes a first core shaft, a second core shaft, a first tubular member, and a second tubular member. The first tubular member is disposed to cover (i) a contact portion where the first core shaft and the second core shaft are arranged opposite to each other so that their central axes coincide, and (ii) a part of each of the first core shaft and the second core shaft, the part being adjacent to the contact portion. The second tubular member, having a tubular shape, covers at least the first tubular member and is fixed to both the first core shaft and the second core shaft.

Connector for a flat flexible cable

U.S. Patent No.: 12,113,309

Patent date: Oct. 8, 2024 Filed: July 2, 2020

Assignee: TE Connectivity Solutions GmbH, China

Inventors: Chester Moll, John Myer, Forrest Kinsey, Jr.

A connector for a flat flexible cable includes a housing portion and a plurality of terminals. The housing portion has a retention section and a crimping section. The retention section has a plurality of terminal receiving passageways. The plurality of terminals each have a contact portion held in one of the plurality of terminal receiving passageways and a crimping portion exposed in the crimping section. A plurality of conductors exposed in a window extending through an insulation material of the flat flexible cable are each crimped in the crimping portion of one of the plurality of terminals.

Protective device for a high-voltage cable, high-voltage cable, high-voltage on-board power supply and motor vehicle

U.S. Patent No.: 12,112,910

Patent date: Oct. 8, 2024 Filed: Jan. 10, 2020

Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft, Germany

Inventors: Thomas Kronenberger, Benedikt Nies

A protective device to be integrated into a high-voltage cable of a high-voltage on-board power supply includes a cut-out for interrupting at least one electrical conductor of the high-voltage cable in a fault scenario, a shielding element for forming a cable shield with a shielding conductor of the high-voltage cable, and a housing to be arranged between two high-voltage-cable sections of the high-voltage cable. In the housing, the cut-out and the shielding element are arranged, and the housing has contacts for connecting the cut-out to conductor sections of the at least one conductor and for connecting the shielding element to shielding-conductor sections of the shielding conductor. At least a part of the housing is capable of being non-destructively detached from the high-voltage-cable sections, in order to enable an exchange of at least the cut-out in the case of a defect of the cut-out.

Electrical insulation composition and power cable

U.S. Patent No.: 12,112,864

Patent date: Oct. 8, 2024 Filed: Jan. 10, 2020

Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Japan

Inventors: Satoshi Yamasaki, Takanori Yamasaki

An electrical insulation composition includes a base resin containing 65 parts by mass or more and 98 parts by mass or less of a polyethylene and 2 parts by mass or more and 35 parts by mass or less of a styrene-containing resin, the polyethylene and the styrene-containing resin totaling 100 parts by mass, and 0.05 parts by mass or more and 1.0 parts by mass or less of a fatty acid amide.

Coxial cable

U.S. Patent No.: 12,112,861

Patent date: Oct. 8, 2024 Filed: March 19, 2021

Assignee: Totoku Electric Co., Ltd., Japan

Inventors: Takeyasu Nakayama, Hiroto Imamura, Satoshi Yamazaki

To provide a coaxial cable with a favorable appearance and excellent processability. The above-described problem is solved by a coaxial cable comprising a center conductor (11), an insulator (12) provided on an outer periphery of the center conductor (11), an external conductor (13, 14) provided on an outer periphery of the insulator (12), and an

THE IP PATENT PRIMER

A good time to sell your business? Don’t forget IP

I predict that President Trump’s policies will create a wave of business acquisitions. I predict mergers and acquisitions (M&As) will skyrocket over the next few years. This prediction is based on several factors. The first is pent-up demand. Under President Biden, M&A slowed considerably, partly due to his executive order calling for greater enforcement of antitrust laws, with the FTC and DOJ following through. There were policy changes and lawsuits that increased the risk for even normal M&A deals. High interest rates were an added factor, along with the economy in general.

We don’t know what Trump will do, but he is historically pro-business and has promised to reduce regulations and taxes. Looking back at his first year in office, M&A activity was the highest for any president in modern history. If interest rates continue to fall, the cost of doing deals will be lower. Further, the risks of doing deals will be reduced if the FTC and DOJ take a different view on challenging deals. Lower taxes will also free up resources.

You need to be prepared now. If you’re thinking about selling your business, now is the time to prepare. Think of this as akin to selling your house: you want to make it attractive and take care of issues that may raise concerns in the buyer’s mind. Things that aren’t a concern for you may be red flags to a buyer. When we sold our last home, there was a cracked tile on the lanai. It would have been an easy fix, but it didn’t concern me. To my surprise, some buyers read the

cracked tile as a sign that the lanai was sinking.

Many business owners are guilty of “one cracked tile.” This is especially true when it comes to Intellectual Property. Many business owners put IP on the back burner: it’s important, but not urgent. Business owners know they have IP, but it is easy to set its protection aside, as there are always going to be other immediate issues that need attention. It is essential to have a system that requires a pause to consider IP and its protection. The system I use with clients takes less than one hour per quarter. It works because it’s on the calendar.

Updating your Intellectual Property portfolio is a key task in selling your business. Every business has IP, but many don’t realize its importance. Over the last few decades, the value of IP has soared, and for good reason. One big one is that your business identity is protected by your trademarks. Having well-known and protected trademarks is important to buyers. Trademarks can be your most valuable asset. In one deal, the buyer said he was willing to pay a significant multiple because of my client’s trademarks. Customers knew the brand and its reputation. This was a massive benefit to the buyer.

Patents can give the same comfort to a purchaser. Having a strong patent portfolio protects against competition. It’s like a moat around your products. Patents can also be licensed to generate additional revenue.

Copyrights protect your creativity, such as marketing materials, websites, images and computer soft-

ware. One client who came to me had all the images on their website copied by a competitor. We were able to force them to take them down, but if the images had been registered, we could have pursued significant monetary damages ...millions.

Your trade secrets protect anything valuable that you keep secret, such as business plans, customer research, and processes. They give your business an advantage, and naming, listing and promoting them demonstrates their value.

What’s the cost of ignoring your IP?

To sell your business, your IP portfolio needs to be protected. This gives needed assurances to buyers. Many deals have collapsed when IP wasn’t protected. In one deal, the trademarks weren’t registered with the US Trademark Office. Registration gives specific rights that establish strength. The trademarks likely had value, but the buyer was concerned about their strength and walked away. In another deal, software was important, but there was a question of who owned the software. A third party had developed it, and when the purchaser questioned the ownership, the deal collapsed.

You must inventory your business, identify your IP and protect it. It’s time to take your IP off the backburner and fix any issues, even if you’re not selling. Don’t wait because protection takes time. Registering your trademarks can take a year or more. You don’t want your intellectual property disorganized, unprotected and creating concerns for buyers.

-Bill Honaker

Bill Honaker has been an intellectual property attorney for more than 30 years, helping businesses—from Fortune 100 firms to individual entrepreneurs—protect their patents, trademarks and copyrights. A former Patent Office Examiner, he is a partner with Dickinson Wright, PLLC. He notes that he is especially good at keeping clients out of court. He can be contacted at whonaker@dickinson-wright.com, tel. 248-433-7381.

outer coated body (15, 16) covering the external conductor (13, 14). The external conductor (13, 14) is constituted by a lateral winding shield (13) provided with metal fine wires laterally wound on the outer periphery of the insulator (12), and a metal resin tape (14) wound in a layer on the lateral winding shield (13) with a metal layer side being on an inside. The outer coated body (15, 16) is constituted by a resin tape (15) wound on the metal resin tape (14), and an extruded sheath (16) covering the resin tape (15). Given T1 as a thickness of the metal resin tape (14) and T2 as a thickness of the resin tape (15), T2/T1 is from 0.180 to 0.800.

Shielded twisted pair cable

U.S. Patent No.: 12,112,860

Patent date: Oct. 8, 2024 Filed: March 14, 2024

Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Japan

Inventor: Yuto Kobayashi

A shielded twisted pair cable includes a twisted pair wire including two insulated wires that are twisted together, and a shield configured to cover the twisted pair wire. Each of the two insulated wires includes a conductor, and an insulator covering the conductor. The shield includes a first shield, a second shield, and a third shield in this order from a position closest to the twisted pair wire. The first shield includes a first resin tape with a metal foil, spirally wound around the twisted pair wire, the second shield includes a braided conductor, and the third shield includes a second resin tape with a metal foil. The metal foil of the first resin tape with the metal foil makes contact with the braided conductor, and the braided conductor makes contact with the metal foil of the second resin tape with the metal foil.

Submarine oceanic fiber optic cable apparatus for increased data transmission and method of use

U.S. Patent No.: 12,111,506

Patent date: Oct. 8, 2024 Filed: March 24, 2024

Assignee/Inventor: Samuel Messinger, USA

A multi-fiber-optic oceanic cable apparatus (100) with about seven times greater stiffness than normal subsea fiber-optic apparatuses, making it significantly less prone to breakage underwater. The apparatus comprises layers (from a center and outward) of: a) a hollow copper or aluminum tube (2) encircling a plurality of fiber optic cables (1) able to transmit internet data, and encased in a lubricant (3); b) a hollow polycarbonate tube (6); c) an aluminum water barrier (7); d) a plurality of polygon shaped wires (5) (e.g. hexagons) touching on all sides, and covered in a polyester film/tape (4); and e) a hollow polyethylene tube (8). The apparatus with significantly increased stiffness carries multiple internet optical fibers in parallel through the center, and additionally, within hollow polygon shaped tubes with lubricant. This increase in stiffness and/or hollow polygon tubes allows for more fiber

optic cables to be bundled together, thus exponentially increasing internet flow.

Extending dynamic acoustic sensing range and localization in undersea cables using loopbacksf

U.S. Patent No.: 12,111,287

Patent date: Oct. 8, 2024 Filed: April 26, 2022

Assignee: Shimadzu Corporation, Japan

Inventors Hajime Takemoto, Yoshio Takami

A wire rope inspection system is provided with: an excitation unit configured to apply a magnetic flux to a wire rope that is an inspection target; a detection unit configured to detect a magnetic flux of the wire rope to which the magnetic flux has been applied by the excitation unit; a detachable unit configured to be detachably mounted to a stationary unit fixed in proximity to the wire rope, the detachable unit being provided with at least the detection unit; and a positioning mechanism configured to position the detachable unit with reference to the stationary unit such that the detection unit is arranged at a predetermined position with reference to the wire rope.

Extending dynamic acoustic sensing range and localization in undersea cables using loopbacksf

U.S. Patent No.: 12,111,204

Patent date: Oct. 8, 2024 Filed: May 20, 2022

Assignees: SubCom, LLC., USA

Inventors Alexei Pilipetskii; Dmitri Foursa, Maxim Bolshtyansky, Georg Mohs, Jin-Xing Cai

Apparatus, systems, and techniques for extending distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) range in undersea optical cables over multiple spans, as well as providing span-specific DAS information, are provided.

Coaxial

flat cable

U.S. Patent No.: 12,107,354

Patent date: Oct. 1, 2024 Filed: Oct. 2, 2019

Assignees: Totoku Electric Co., Ltd., Japan

Inventor Nobuaki Nakayama

To provide a coaxial flat cable that can achieve stable high-frequency transmission characteristics as a structure by which stress is not applied to a specific coaxial cable, even due to handling of the coaxial flat cable or the like. The above-described problem is solved by a coaxial flat cable (20) comprising a plurality of coaxial cables (10) disposed side by side in a width direction (X), and a resin tape (11) integrating at least terminal parts (21) of these coaxial cables (10) from one surface or both surfaces, each of the plurality of coaxial cables (10) being connected by soldering to a substrate (30) or a connector. The resin tape (11) positioned at the termi-

nal parts (21) is configured to be provided with a fixed part (21a), to be fixed to the substrate or the connector, at both end portions in the width direction (X).

Two

core flat cable

U.S. Patent No.: 12,106,872

Patent date: Oct. 1, 2024 Filed: Oct. 2, 2019

Assignees: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Japan

Inventor Yuto Kobayashi

A two-core flat cable includes a pair of metal wires, an insulating covering that bundles and covers the pair of metal wires along a longitudinal direction thereof, an electrically conductive shield that covers an entire perimeter surface of the covering, and an insulating sheath that covers the shield, wherein the shield is comprised of a metal coating laver, and the sheath is comprised of a lamination sheet of an insulating resin.

Flat combined wire

U.S. Patent No.: 12,106,872

Patent date: Oct. 1, 2024 Filed: Aug. 21, 2022

Assignees: Ding Tai Feng Electric Wire and Cable Ind. Co., Ltd. Taiwan

Inventor I-ChiehTsai

A flat combined wire including at least two wires combined side by side with each other is provided. Each of the wires includes at least three cores and an electrically insulating member. Each of the cores includes multiple yarns and multiple electrically conducting wires twisted and woven with each other, and the electrically conducting wires are wrapped around the yarns. The electrically insulating member covers the cores.

Optical cable

U.S. Patent No.: 12,105,336

Patent date: Oct. 1, 2024 Filed: Jan. 20, 2022

Assignees: LS Cable & System Ltd., South Korea

Inventor Man Su Lee

An optical cable is provided in which an optical fiber bundle with clustered or bundled optical fibers is accommodated in a tubular member and the optical fibers are formed in an excess group length (EGL) by modeling considering bending properties of the optical cable or a lossless bending radius of the optical fibers of the optical fiber bundle, thereby minimizing stress, damage or optical loss of the optical fibers in the optical fiber bundle.

Precursor for use in manufacturing superconducting wire, production method of precursor, and superconducting wire

U.S. Patent No.: 12,102,015

Patent date: Sept. 24, 2024 Filed: Oct. 25, 2019

Assignees: Kobe Steel, Ltd., Japan

Inventors Shinya Kawashima, Takao Kawarada

A precursor, which is a drawn wire product of a composite pipe, the composite pipe having: a composite wire group; a barrier layer; and a protective layer, wherein the composite wire group has: a plurality of tin wires each having at least one tin core being made of tin or a tin alloy, and a copper matrix which surrounds the at least one tin core; and a plurality of niobium wires each having a plurality of niobium cores being made of niobium or a niobium alloy, and a copper matrix which surrounds the plurality of niobium cores, the plurality of niobium wires being disposed such that each of the tin wires is surrounded by the niobium wires, the composite wire group contains titanium in an amount of from 0.38% by mass to 0.55% by mass.

(Continued on p. 66)

ASIAN FOCUS

part of CERN’s Large Hadron Collider

Furukawa Electric’s cable continues to be a key

CERN’s Large Hadron Collider (LHC), the world’s largest particle accelerator that seeks to further understand particle physics, continues its work, using superconducting magnet wires from Furukawa Electric.

Per multiple reports, the project that commenced in 2022 and is slated to run through 2026, is collecting high-energy collision data to explore fundamental physics questions. That includes the properties of the Higgs boson and the search for new particles beyond the Standard Model.

The wires provided by Furukawa Electric are essential to the project as they enable the generation of powerful magnetic fields necessary for accelerating and colliding particles at high energies. A report from the European Organization for Nuclear Research, LHC Project Report 694, that spells out the role of the specialized cables for a project that has been questioned for both its expense as well as the practical value of the results. Below are excerpts about the technical aspects and a project update.

The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is a high-energy, high-luminosity particle accelerator under construction at CERN. Most of the existing 27-km underground tunnel will be filled with superconducting magnets, mainly 15 m long dipoles and 3 m long quadrupoles. These 1232 dipole and 400 quadrupole magnets as well as many other magnets, are wound with copper stabilized NbTi Rutherford cables to be operated at 1.9 K by means of pressurized superfluid helium. The operating dipole field is 8.33 T; however the whole system is designed for possible operation up to 9 T. The coils are powered at about 12 kA and about 12 GJ of magnetic energy will be stored in superconducting devices.

The superconducting wires from Furukawa Electric are niobium-titanium (NbTi) superconducting wires, each strand containing approximately 6,426 twisted NbTi filaments, each about 6 micrometers in diameter. They are embedded in an oxygen-free copper matrix, providing both superconductivity and structural integrity. The company made Rutherford-type cables, which are essential for the LHC’s main dipole magnets. These cables consist of multiple superconducting strands precisely arranged to optimize current-carrying capacity and mechanical stability.

Furukawa Electric’s innovations include the development of multifilament NbTi conductors and the successful manufacture of V3Ga and Nb3Sn composite fine multifilament conductors. These advancements have been crucial in meeting the stringent performance requirements of high-energy physics experiments. Through these contributions, Furukawa Electric has played a pivotal role in the LHC’s success, facilitating experiments that led to the discovery of the Higgs boson and furthering our understanding of fundamental physics.

CERN’s Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is actively engaged in its third operational run, known as Run 3, which commenced in 2022 and is scheduled to continue until June

2026. In September 2024, the LHC achieved a significant milestone by delivering over 100 inverse femtobarns (fb-¹) of integrated luminosity to the ATLAS and CMS experiments within a single year, setting a new record. This accomplishment enhances the potential for discovering rare particle interactions.

Following the conclusion of Run 3 in June 2026, the LHC is scheduled to enter Long Shutdown 3 (LS3) starting in July 2026. This period, extending until early 2030, will involve extensive upgrades to transition the LHC into its High-Luminosity phase (HL-LHC). The HL-LHC aims to increase the collider’s luminosity by a factor of five.

During LS3, R&D efforts will concentrate on enhancing the LHC’s components, including the installation of advanced superconducting magnets and upgraded detectors. These improvements are designed to handle higher collision rates and data volumes, thereby expanding the collider’s scientific capabilities. In summary, the LHC is currently in an active data collection phase, with ongoing R&D efforts aimed at future enhancements. The scientific community anticipates substantial findings from Run 3, with detailed reports expected by 2026.

Kataria Industries reports the acquisition of a division of Ratlam Wires Pvt. Ltd.

Kataria Industries Limited (KII) has acquired the wire manufacturing division of India’s Ratlam Wires for 30.6 crore, worth approximately $3.6 million.

Per multiple media reports, Ratlam Wires manufactures a wide range of steel wire products, steel spring wires, PC strand wires and galvanized and ungalvanized wires. The deal was reported to be a “lump sale,” which means that the entire business unit or division is transferred, including all assets and liabilities necessary for its operation.

“We are excited about the acquisition of Ratlam Wires’ Wire Division, which is expected to enhance our turnover and margins through the combined synergies of both businesses,” said KII Managing Director Arun Kataria. “This move is perfectly aligned with our long-term growth strategy and will enable us to better serve a wider range of industries.”

The synergy, the articles said, will enable Kataria to cater to more sectors, such as automotive, railways and wind power generation. Founded in 1971, KII also manufactures strand, other steel wire, sheathing ducts and aluminum conductors. Per the reports, Ratlam Wires Pvt. Ltd. was established in 1986, and has annual production capacity of 30,000 MT. The division operates from a nearly 200,000 sq ft facility in the industrial area of Ratlam.

At the Kataria Wires website, the company notes that it has annual manufacturing capacity of 38,000 metric tons, with more than 200 employees in two manufacturing units. The company serves 200 plus customers, exporting to six countries, and is involved in many government projects, metro projects as well as expressway projects. n

PEOPLE CORNER

who’s on the move in the industry

Rainbow Rubber announced that Jonathan Rufe will be North American Sales Manager, effective Jan. 1, 2025. He joined the company in 2014, covering sales in New England and Canada, and thrived in those territories. Throughout his tenure at Rainbow, he has held many other responsibilities, such as marketing, trade show production and new product development. Most recently, he hired and managed agents in Canada and Mexico to expand those markets while maintaining his own territory and being a product specialist. He holds a B.A. degree in political science and government from Lafayette College, and recently completed an MBA program at Lehigh University.

Andree Cziczkat has joined Proton Products as global metals market manager. He most recently was account manager metal EMEA for Nordson Company, where he started out in 2008 as a regional sales manager EMEA. Prior to that he worked for four years for Iris GmbH and three years for Elco Pro GmbH. He holds an HF degree, electro-optic, medical technics, from Ruhr University Bochum. Based in the U.K., Proton Products Group is a leading manufacturer of instrumentation and control equipment for use in industrial production.

customer success director for Vendavo. Based in Westlake, Ohio, GEON Performance Solutions supplies PVC compounds, polyolefin products and engineered polymers.

Matteo Nascetti has been named General Manager Italy for SAMP. He has two decades of experience in the field of automated machinery and precision mechanics and is known for his strong focus on enhancing production processes and successfully integrating new technologies to improve corporate efficiency. He has worked extensively in developing economies, optimizing processes and driving local growth. Based in Bologna, Italy, the SAMP Group is a global supplier of wire and cable machinery.

ICE Cable Systems recently announced the filling of two positions. Jay Heffernan was named vice president of sales, East Coast. He has more than 30 years of security business expertise. He began his career as a manufacturer’s representative, managing key territories in New England and upstate New York, where his efforts contributed to company growth ahead of its acquisition. Amberly Rhyne was named the new East Coast regional sales representative. She has commercial ProAV sales experience in the CEDIA market that includes her working as a regional sales manager for Herman ProAV. Based in Austin, Texas, ICE Cable Systems makes low-voltage wire and cable products for residential and commercial channels.

Amy Theobald Poras has been promoted to sales manager - east region at GEON Performance Solutions. She joined the company in 2021 as a wire and cable sales team leader. She previously worked as an application development manager for Coventus Polymers, as market development manager for wire and cable for Nexeo Plastics, sales manager southeast market for The Chemical Company and

Chris Adams has joined RF Industries, Inc., as a national key account manager - integrators. He has 30 years of experience in technical sales and marketing. He most recently was MNO sales director- East Coast for Communication Technology Services. Past employers included Huber + Suher, where he was a business unit manager for wireless products; Radio Frequency Systems, where he was global/NA product manager; Amphenol TimesFiber, where he was director of business development; and RFS, where he was Northeast district sales manager. Based in San Diego, California, RF Industries manufactures a broad range of interconnect products that include cables and wire harnesses.

Rufe

Nascetti

Cziczkat

Poras

Carl P. Sjogren, the owner and president of Sjogren Industries, died from cancer on Nov. 2, 2024, at age 65.

OBITUARY

Carl Sjogren joined the family company after graduating from Worcester Academy. His industry story, however, started back in 1888, when an eight-yearold Swedish immigrant, Oscar Sjogren, came to the U.S., ultimately settling in Worcester, Massachusetts, working as a machinist in the local wire mills. In 1927, after working at American Steel and Wire, U.S. Steel and Wickwire Spencer Steel, he started Sjogren and Sons in his two-car garage. The company thrived by supporting the domestic wire industries until his passing in 1957.

After inheriting the business from their father, Oscar’s sons, Richard and Walter, continued to grow and expand the company. The name changed to Sjogren Tool and Machine, and it continued its growth through the 60s and 70s with Richard’s sons—Richard and Robert—manning

the helm. At this time, Sjogren carried a workforce of 150 employees in five separate divisions.

The recession of the early 80s forced Sjogren into bankruptcy court and it was taken over by MFA. In 1986, Carl Sjogren, then 27, bought the wire tooling division back. The initial purchase consisted of blueprints, customer lists, inventory and special tooling. He led the company through a tremendous period of growth, expanding sales into Europe, and later launched a new plant, Sjogren Manufacturing, Inc., in Worcester.

Today, the company’s machinery, tooling and accessories are sold worldwide with distributors located in Europe, South America, Asia, and Mexico. During the past 10 years, Carl Sjogren worked with his team to develop 12 new products to launch into the market over time to aid in efficiency and ease of use by workers on wire-drawing lines. He continued to work as he could, still contributing within a week of his passing.

Carl was predeceased by his father, Richard C. Sjogren. Survivors include his mother, Cora; his wife, Cheryl; his son, Dylan; his brother, Buddy; his sister, Wendy; and nieces and nephews. 

Sjogren

FIBER WATCH

The North American market outlook looks strong for optical fiber cable through 2025

A report from Mordor Intelligence projects that the North American market for fiber optic cables will remain quite strong, driven by demand for high-speed, reliable and scalable communication infrastructure.

A press release said that North America has recently obtained a prominent position owing to the increasing pace of fiber optic deployment in the country. With data-intensive activities like video streaming, cloud computing, online gaming, and remote working, the need for highspeed and dependable internet connections has increased.

The report cited a release from the Fiber Broadband Association that said that the fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) market saw 13% growth in the U.S. in 2023, with fiber broadband now passing nearly 69 million unique US homes. That report said that Canada has also seen a surge in demand for FTTH, with passings seeing a 12% growth in 2023 to 12.1 million. The jump in FTTH deployments results from significant government funding efforts, such as Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD), RDOF and ReConnect, which are beginning to have a direct effect.

The report said that 5G connections were expected to surpass one billion in 2022 and two billion by 2025. By the end of 2025, 5G will account for over a fifth of mobile connections, and more than two in five people globally will live within a 5G network. Due to the increasing demand for 5G connections, many industry suppliers are expanding their production capabilities. This is expected to drive the market significantly.

The report noted that the BEAD Program is providing US$42.45 billion to expand high-speed internet access by funding planning, infrastructure deployment and adoption programs in all 50 states, Washington DC, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

As demand grows, more companies will focus on product launches, partnerships and other strategic investments. It noted that last year, CommScope announced expanding its fiber-optic cable production to accelerate broadband rollout across the U.S. connecting more communities and underserved areas. The lines were expected to support 500,000 homes per year in FTTH deployments.

Corning Incorporated announced its plans to expand the manufacturing capacity for optical fiber cables by constructing an all-new cable manufacturing facility in Gilbert, Arizona. The facility will be the industry’s westernmost U.S. manufacturing site for optical cable, allowing the company to serve the growing demand in the western U.S. and Canada.

The report also cited product advances, such as one made last year by Sterlite Technologies Ltd (STL), which announced that it had developed a 160-micron optical fiber, among the world’s slimmest fibers for telecommunication. This innovation was conceptualized and developed indige-

nously at STL’s Centre of Excellence in Maharashtra. With this launch, the company has become the first to develop and patent this technology globally.

The report includes a market overview, drivers, challenges and analysis. For more details, contact Mordor Intelligence at www.mordorintelligence.com.

Aalto University researchers tout the potential of quasicrystals for fiber optics

A study published in Nature Communications outlines the findings of researchers at Aalto University’s Department of Applied Physics that believe their work may lead to increasing the data-carrying potential of optical fiber by more than tenfold.

The article focuses on what was described as “a new way to create tiny hurricanes of light—known to scientists as vortices—that can carry information.” The method to accomplish this is based on manipulating metallic nanoparticles that interact with an electric field.

Per the article, the key has to do with how data is delivered. They looked at a class of geometries known as quasicrystals. The work was conceived by Doctoral Researcher Kristian Arjas and experimentally realized by Doctoral Researcher Jani Taskinen, both from Professor Päivi Törmä’s Quantum Dynamics group. Their discovery represents a fundamental step forward in physics and could result in new ways of transmitting information.

The article explained that the key is a vortex. “Just like the eye of a hurricane is calm due to the winds around it blowing in different directions, the eye of the vortex is dark due to the electric field of bright light pointing to different directions on different sides of the beam.”

The group manipulated 100,000 metallic nanoparticles, each a hundredth of a single strand of human hair, to create their unique design. The key lay in finding where the particles interacted with the desired electric field the least instead of the most. They focused on the structure.

“For example, if particles in the nanoscale are arranged in squares, the produced light has a single vortex; hexagons produce a double vortex and so on. More complex vortices require at least octagonal shapes.”

Arjas, Taskinen and the team unlocked a method for creating geometric shapes that theoretically support any kind of vortex. “This research is on the relationship between the symmetry and the rotationality of the vortex, i.e. what kinds of vortices can we generate with what kinds of symmetries. Our quasicrystal design is halfway between order and chaos,” Törmä said. “We introduced particles into the dead spots, which shut down everything else and allowed us to select the field with the most interesting properties for applications. Theoretically, sending the vortices down optic fiber cables and unpacking them at the destination could allow from eight to 16 times more information being delivered by optical fiber, a reality that is years away. n

Genesys Industries reports the acquisition of F3 Aerospace

Genesys Industries announced that the company has acquired F3 Aerospace, a manufacturer of structural aircraft fastener components and assemblies that was founded in 1998. The deal also includes the commercial real estate that houses the current plant operations, consisting of 10,000 sq ft of manufacturing space.

A press release said that F3 Aerospace, based in Decatur, Illinois, provides products “currently embedded in countless programs in the commercial aerospace sector.” Its established product line is focused on commercial aircraft hardware. The company is a direct-buy OEM with customer approvals from the largest program managers in the world for the majority of its product line.

The company’s products are currently installed in and support programs for Boeing, Airbus, Bombardier, GKN Aerospace, Spirit AeroSystems, Textron and many others. All mechanical parts manufacturing and assemblies are currently manufactured from the Decatur facility. F3 has been a sole source manufacturer on certain legacy programs and continues supporting its multi-decades of customer relationships.

“We are excited about the acquisition of F3,” the release said. “This addition expands our already increasing footprint in the manufacturing of mechanical components for

the commercial aerospace sector. It fits well with our aftermarket-focused value generation strategy. Specifically, it will add to our hardware line of products and diversify our own product lines and OEM sole source capabilities. The company has established positions on a diverse range of new and existing fixed-wing platforms, strong aftermarket content and an outstanding reputation with its customers.”

F3 Aerospace President and CEO Martin Trnovsky said that the two companies share common markets, manufacturing expertise and values. “Working together, we will be able to offer a broader range of products and enhanced service for our customers.”

Based in Palmetto, Florida, Genesys Industries is an ISO 9001 & AS9100D certified manufacturer of advanced precision machined components for industry. The company notes that it is a full-service manufacturer with extensive precision products and assembly capabilities. The company’s core focus is the precision manufacturing of threaded and non-threaded screw machined and fastener components. It offers fasteners that hold tight tolerances in dozens of metals and plastics, and is a standards-based manufacturer of metric, standard, specialty, OEM, NSN, NAS, NASM, AN, MS, AS, BACB, LS, ST4M, GB. n

ASSOCIATION HIGHLIGHTS

New WAI training platform continues to evolve, will be ready for January launch

As the wire and cable industry evolves, so does WAI’s commitment to education. The Association’s online training platform, set to launch in January 2025, will offer a mix of Association produced courses and thirdparty content to meet diverse training needs.

“We’re incredibly excited about the breadth of content we’ll have available,” said John Markowski, WAI’s education project manager.” At the platform debut, WAI will offer three in-house-produced courses: Introduction to Ferrous Metallurgy, Single Layer Extrusion Overview and Extrusion Applications. These will be complemented by 12 general manufacturing safety courses from a third-party content provider, creating a robust library of resources.

The platform’s development is progressing rapidly. The goal is to complete an online version of the Fundamentals of Wire Manufacturing Course in 2025, Markowski said. “This course has long been a foundation of our training efforts and moving it online will allow us to reach even more people.”

Steve Fetteroll, WAI’s Executive Director, emphasized the importance of this initiative. “We want to ensure that professionals across the industry have access to the best training resources available. This platform is a direct response to the growing demand for flexible, high-quality educational content.”

To support the platform’s launch, WAI’s marketing team is developing an array of promotional materials, including a second video to showcase its features. Also, the Association will host an “open house” webinar on Jan. 29 (see opposite page).

Visit wirenet.org for more details as they will be updated there as the date approaches. Questions about the platform can be sent to education@wirenet.org.

Tech offerings will be a standout next year at both Interwire and GCCF

If you are interested in better understanding the technology that is the heart of wire and cable production, you should be joining your peers at either Interwire or the Global Continuous Casting Forum (GCCF) next year. Much of the attraction will be the traditional WAI programs, but the Atlanta event will see the launching of a new element for the lineup.

“The education program at Interwire has always been a cornerstone of the event,” said John Markowski, WAI’s Education Project Manager. “This year, we’re building on that legacy by introducing a new, hands-on workshop and a more modern conference experience.”

WAI’s Advanced Extrusion Workshop will take place on Wednesday, May 14, at Southwire’s new training facility. Limited to 50 participants, this hands-on program will deepen attendees’ understanding of extrusion processes, with guidance from experts Rick Chamberlain (retired, Prysmian) and a representative from Southwire. Participants will also engage with extrusion exhibitors back on the show floor.

Interwire 2025 attendees will also notice some changes. “We’re adding a ‘Voice of God’ announcer for key transitions, walk-up music for speakers, and virtual presenter prep sessions before the event,” Markowski said. “These changes aim to streamline the event and create a more engaging atmosphere.”

The Global Continuous Casting Forum (GCCF), a full-scale conference featuring over 30 sessions, two panels and a facility tour, will run alongside Interwire. This event offers numerous networking opportunities, including an opening reception, awards dinner, and lunches.

At this point, the full schedule for these programs will be released online soon. For the latest updates, visit interwire25.com. Questions about educational programs can be directed to WAI at education@wirenet.org.

It all starts before the official start of Interwire 2025 with the well-established Fundamentals of Wire Manufacturing Course. The full-day program continues to provide a comprehensive introduction to the wire industry, and even there, while the core content remains consistent, small improvements are being made to keep it fresh and relevant, Markowski said.

MEET YOUR PEERS. ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS. JOIN WAI TODAY.

The following list includes new WAI members, renewing members and those who became Platinum members through their companies.

Tamra Baker Senior Process Manager Prysmian

Brianna Beyer Quality Engineer Prysmian

Alain Bourdelais Plant Manager Prysmian

Julius Boye Thompson Quality Engineer Prysmian

Frankie Bynum Process Engineer Prysmian

Veronic Caron Bombardier Process Engineer CPI Prysmian

Jason Crowe Maintenance Supervisor Prysmian

Matthew Dyer North America Operational Excellence Manager Prysmian

Guillermo Garza Elizondo Technical & Quality Manager Prysmian

Carl Gatenio Managing Director Raymond James & Associates

Robert Goulding Maintenance Manager Prysmian

Megan Hardy Process Engineer Prysmian

Tom Herd Vice President Sales Radcliff Wire Inc

Adam Hitt Process Unit Manager Prysmian

Cam Kirkwood EHS Manager Superior Essex

Steve Linden Manufacturing Team Lead Prysmian

James Lisi Fiber Optics Plant Director Prysmian

Jonathan Michel Maintenance Manager Prysmian

Ilai Nganso Process Engineer Prysmian

Pierre Niquette QA & Process Manager Prysmian

Edmund Pereira Process Technician Prysmian

Kenneth Robertson Engineering Manager Prysmian

Lyman Ryan Valerio Operational Excellence Director Prysmian

Travis Sanders Process Engineer Prysmian

Harpreet Singh Process Engineer Prysmian

Brad Taylor Process Engineer Prysmian

Jason Tindall Senior Quality Engineer Prysmian

range of new online training

Jan. 29th WAI webinar will explain the scope and

Want to know what exactly the Association has been working on for more than a year? The WAI’s Education Committee will host a virtual “Open House” that has a theme: Explore the Future of Industry Training. The zoom webinar will be held at 11 am EST on Jan 29, 2025. The industry is invited to join this exclusive webinar that will showcase the Wire Association International’s new learning platform. This session will provide a firsthand look at the video-based training courses that are designed to enhance professional devel-

opment in the wire and cable industry. The platform makes learning accessible, engaging and impactful with features like expert-crafted content, 3D animations, and flexible on-demand access.

“Whether you’re an industry veteran or newcomer, this demo will show how our tools can elevate your skills and knowledge,” said John Markowski, WAI’s education project manager. The courses provide basic training that would benefit any company with new employees. Registration is free by visiting the Association at www.wirenet.org. A private demo session can be arranged by contacting education@ wirenet.org, and a 15% discount will be offered. 

ACIMAF, Italian Wire Machinery Manufacturers’ Association

ACM Measuring Technology

ADVARIS USA, Inc.

AESA Cortaillod SA

AGAPE Industrial, Inc.

AITMAC, Inc.

Ajex & Turner Wire Technologies

Align Production Systems

Ambica Steel Ltd.

American Furukawa Inc.

Anbao Qinhuangdao International Corp.

Anderson Forest Products

Asaclean-Asahi Kasei Plastics North America

Automated Industrial Machinery Inc. (AIM, Inc.)

AWT Machinery Inc.

Axjo America

Aztech Lubricants

B&H Tool Co.

Bartell Machinery Systems LLC

Baum’s Castorine Co., Inc.

Bechem Lubrication Technology, LLC

Bergandi Marchinery

Betasistemi s.r.l.

Blachford Corp.

Boockmann Engineering GmbH

BOXY S.p.A.

Bozdemir Makina Sanayi ve Ticaret Ltd. Sti.

Buss AG

Caballe SAU Construcciones

Mecanicas Caballe

Cable Components

Cable Consultants Corp.

Calmec Precision Ltd.

Carris Reels Inc.

Cavallero Plastics Inc.

INTERWIRE Exhibitors

Cemanco LC

Changzhou Haoqiang Cable Co., Ltd.

Changzhou Longdu Electrical Co., Ltd.

Chase Corp.

Cheng I Wire Machinery Co., Ltd.

Chroma Color Corp.

Clifford Machines

Clinton Instrument Co.

CM Furnaces Inc.

CMS Inc.

CN Wire Corp.

Commission Brokers

Condat Corp.

Conductix-Wampfler

Confex Technology Ltd.

Conneaut Industries

Continuus-Properzi S.p.A.

Coremo Ocmea SpA

Corrupal

Coseco SrL

CSM METALURJİ LTD. ŞTİ.

Custom Wire Products

Davis-Standard LLC

DELTA TECNIC

DEM

Die Quip Corp.

DijitalPort Istanbul Dan. Loj. Amb. San. ve Tic. Ltd. Sti

Danyang Windpower Wire & Cable Mfg. Co., Ltd.

Domeks Makine A.S.

Double E Group

DRT Impianti

Dynamex Corp.

E-BEAM Services, Inc.

EBNER Furnaces, Inc.

EKM Steel Reel

Electronic Drives & Controls, Inc.

Elematec

Enercon Industries

ERA Wire Inc.

Erocarb SA

Esteves Group

The George Evans Corp.

EVG

EXEL International

Fabpro Polymers

Fabritex Inc.

Fenn-Torin

FiB Thermal Solutions

Fil-Tec, Inc.

Filtertech, Inc.

FLYMCA

FMS USA Inc.

Fort Wayne Wire Die, Inc.

Frekans Makina San ve Tic

A.S.

Freudenberg PM

Fridea SrL

Frigeco USA Inc.

FUHR Rolling Mills

Gem Gravure Co. Inc.

GENDON

GEON Performance Solutions

Glenro Inc.

GMM USA LLC

GMP Slovakia sro

Guelph Twines Ltd.

Guill Tool & Engineering

Guowang Cable Group

Haefely

Hafner & Krullmann GmbH

HARTER GmbH

Henrich Maschinenfabrik GmbH

HONTA Inc.

Howar Equipment Inc.

Huestis Industrial

IDEAL Welding Systems, L.P.

iiM AG measurement + engineering

IMH Wooden Reels

InnoVites B.V.

Inosym Ltd.

International Wire Group, Inc.

Intop International Exhibition Co., Ltd.

ISIS Carbide Tools

Italian Pavilion

Italian Trade Agency

IWMA Ltd.

JAM Industrial Services Inc.

Jiangsu Kemaite Technology Development Co.., Ltd.

Jiangsu Singcheer Intelligent Equipment Co., Ltd.

Jinhua Yonghe Fluorochemical Co., Ltd.

Joe Snee Associates, Inc.

Joe Tools, Inc.

Jouhsen-bundgens Inc.

Kablomar Kable

Hammaddeleri San Ve Tic. Ltd. Sti.

KabosanTurkey - FBC Yayincilik Ltd. Sti.

Kabmak Muhendislik ve Makina San. Tic. Ltd. Sti.

Kalmark Integrated Systems Ltd.

KEIR Manufacturing, Inc.

King Steel Corp.

Kinrei of America, LLC

KMG Wires Pvt. Ltd.

Koch Machinery & Technology GmbH

Friedrich Krollmann GmbH & Co.

Krueger Steel & Wire

Lämneå Bruk AB

Laserlinc Inc.

Leggett & Platt

Leibinger Inc.

LLFLEX

Lloyd & Bouvier Inc.

Lubrimetal Corp.

Lukas Anlagenbau GmbH

M. Holland Company

~Continued on next page~

INTERWIRE Exhibitors (continued)

Madem-Moorecraft Reels USA, Inc.

Magnetic Analysis Corp.

Magnetic Technologies

Maillefer Extrusion Oy

Mario Frigerio SpA

Markem-Imaje

Mathiasen Machinery, Inc.

Max W. Claas GmbH & Co. KG

Mega Metal

MEKOSAN Group

Melos GmbH

Metal Link Inc.

Metalube UK

Metavan N.V.

MFL S.A.

MFL USA Service Corp.

The MGS Group

Microdia SA

Mid South Wire

Mikrotek Machines Ltd.

Milani srl

Mill Masters, Inc.

Morgan-Koch Corp.

MSS Cable Machinery GmbH

Nanjing Volley Metal

Materials Co., Ltd.

Nano-Dies P/L

Nevatia Steel & Alloys Pvt. Ltd.

Niagara Composites International Inc.

Niehoff Endex North America Inc.

nLine GmbH

Nordson Measurement & Control

Nylon Corporation of America

Oak-trees Inc.

OM Frigerio S.r.L.

Özyaşar Tel ve Galvanizleme

San. A.Ş.

P & R Specialty Inc.

P/A Industries Inc.

Paramount Die

Parkway-Kew Corp.

Phifer Inc.

Pioneer Machinery USA

Polycab USA LLC

Pourtier

Precision Die Technologies

Process Control Corp.

Properzi International, Inc. / Continuus-Properzi, SpA

Proton Products Inc.

PT. Nusantara Electric

PWM Ltd.

Q8Oils

QED Wire Lines Inc.

Quaker Houghton

Radcliff Wire Inc.

Rainbow Rubber & Plastics

Rautomead Ltd.

Reber Systematic GmbH KG

Redex USA

Reel Options by Vandor Corp.

Reel Power Industrial

REELEX Packaging Solutions, Inc.

Refractron Technologies Corp.

RichardsApex, Inc.

Ridgway Machines Ltd.

Roblon

Rockford Manufacturing Group Inc.

Rosendahl Nextrom

Roteq Machinery

SACO AEI Polymers

Saint-Gobain

SAMP USA, Inc.

H. Folke Sandelin AB

Sark Wire Corp.

SARMAKİNA SANAYİ VE

TİCARET A.Ş.

Schlatter North America

Schmidt Maschinenbau GmbH

Schnell Spa

Sensoptic SA

Setic S.A.S - Pourtier

Shanhai Anchors Mold

Shanghai Kechen Wire & Cable Machinery Co., Ltd.

Shenzhen Adwantek Technologies Co., Ltd

SIKORA

Simpacks / Pioneer

Sipcon Technologies Pvt. Ltd.

Sivaco Quebec Division

Sjogren Industries Inc.

SKET Verseilmaschinenbau GmbH

Sonoco

Spirka Schnellflechter GmbH

Star Materials Co. Ltd.

Steel Cable Reels

August Strecker GmbH & Co. KG

Subec AB

Super Seal Corp. LLC

SWEED Machinery

Swiss Pavilion

Syensqo

TapeFormers Ltd.

Taubensee Steel & Wire

Taymer International

TDC

Teknikor

Teknor Apex

Tektapes

Tensor Machinery Ltd.

Thermcraft

Thermoplastics Engineering Corp.

Traxit North America LLC

Trefimet S.A.

TROESTER GmbH & Co. KG

Truva Brass Rod & Billet

Ulbrich Specialty Wire Products

Ultimate Automation

Uniflow

United Wire Co.

UNITEK Crossheads

Universal Wires LLC

UPCAST OY

UYGAR Makina San. ve Tic. Ltd. Sti.

Vapormatt Ltd.

Vatan Kablo Metal Endustri

Ve Ticaret A.S.

Vikas Spool Private Ltd.

WAFIOS Machinery Corp.

Wardwell Braiding Co.

Weber & Scher Mfg. Co. Inc.

Webster and Horsfall

Weilly Diamond Industrial Co., Ltd.

Windak Inc.

Windmill Associates

Wire & Cable Technology International (WCTI)

Wire and Plastic Machinery Corp.

Wire Association

International, Inc.

Wire Journal International, Inc.

Wire Lab Co.

Wire Machine Systems Inc.

WiTechs B.V.

Witels-Albert USA

WK Industrial Services

Woodburn Diamond Die, Inc.

Woywod - Plasticolor

Yagmura Ajans Mak. Mob. San. ve Tic. Ltd. Sti

Zhejiang Tenglong Stainless Steel Industry Co. Ltd.

Zumbach Electronics Corp.

ZWEZ Surface Products

North America, Inc.

List as of 11/25/24

CHAPTER NETWORK

Annual New England Chapter’s event proved to be both educational and fun

WAI’s New England Chapter held their annual educational event on Nov. 7 at Accel International’s plant Nov. 7 in Cheshire, Connecticut, followed by a networking dinner. Including WAI staff, a total of 46 people from 30 companies took part.

The host company excelled even before attendees set off for a behind-the-scenes look at the company’s cutting-edge wire drawing technology. There was a half-hour reception in the lobby of Accel, which provided gourmet snacks and a coffee cart from Green Kettle Coffee Company, both of which were much appreciated.

Participants were then greeted by Accel International Holdings CEO and Founder Tony Oh, who talked about the company’s history and presented an over-

view. Following that presentation, attendees split into small groups to walk through the facility, where staff explained their activities during the 45-minute tour. The company operates three vertically integrated factories in Indiana with nearly 500,000-sq ft of manufacturing space producing silver-plated, nickel-plated and tin-plated copper and copper alloys for the wire and cable market. It also has a fourth plant, in Florida. The company serves fields that include aero-space, medical, telecom and industrial markets.

The New England Chapter presented a $1,000 donation to Accel to go to a charity of its choice. It also wanted to thank Sjogren Industries, which was a sponsor for the event.

Following the tour, the chapter transitioned to nearby Viron Rondo Osteria, where they enjoyed a networking dinner. Participants got to connect with industry peers while enjoying Italian cuisine, proving once again that blending education with networking in a vibrant setting makes for a very good combination. The event ran well and garnered multiple accolades.

Accel CEO Tony Oh with John Tomaz of Wardwell Braiding.

There was good interaction from attendees that hailed from 30 different companies.

The Accel International lobby was decked out for the New England Chapter visit.

Attendees listen to Accel International CEO Tony Oh explain how the company conducts its operations in Cheshire.

CHAPTERS

“You did an excellent job,” declared John Rivers. “I have known Tony Oh for many years and have never seen him that open about sales and profit margins. The restaurant choice was also excellent. Please extend a job well done to your team.”

“I would like to personally thank Lori Parent for her efforts in coordinating this event with the Accel team, WAI staff and Viron Rondo,” said Chapter President Ryan Cabray, Alphagary. “It was a wonderful evening, and the event exceeded all expectations.”

“Thank you to (WAI’s) Corey Flynn for supporting the orchestration of this event, working with Lori on key details, Accel and the restaurant,” said Tom Rosen, Wire & Cable Consulting, LLC.

From l-r, Cable Components Corp.’s Lori Parent, Accel’s Kyle Senk and WAI’s Corey Flynn.

Chapter scholarship programs continue to provide positive results and message

WAI’s four chapters that offer scholarship programs have reported the winners for 2024. Below are the names of the recipients from the Midwest Chapter and the Ohio Valley Chapter, preceded by some comments from the chapters. Of note, scholarship fund raising efforts have found strong support over the years, and not just from members that have a potential recipient.

Lake Cable’s Cooper Runzel said that he is a believer in the Midwest Chapter’s college scholarship program, and he would like to see it evolve more so there is even more support. That could involve sponsorships from outside chapter membership and may focus even more on candidates that intend to pursue careers in industry.

The Ohio Valley, which became the fourth WAI chapter to have a scholarship program, gave out its first-ever award. “The OVC was honored to join the other chapters and award a scholarship to a very deserving individual, Katherine Maxwell,” said Stephen Wright of Blachford Corp. “We look forward to more individuals joining the OVC in order to take part in this scholarship opportunity.”

Midwest Chapter Winners

- $1,500:

Jaida Bender is the daughter of Robert Bender, operations manager, Worth Steel & Machinery, Inc. She is attending the University of WisconsinMilwaukee, where she majors in nursing.

Jack Dickerson is the son of Peter Dickerson, president, MidWest Wire Works. He is attending Bradley University, where he majors in game design.

Logan Wilson is the son of Margaret Wilson, account executive, ShapedWire-Liberty Steel. He is attending Northern Illinois University, where he majors in mechatronics.

Ohio Valley Chapter Winner - $1,500:

Katherine Maxwell is the daughter of Tom Maxwell Jr., president, Die Quip Corporation. She is attending the University of Kentucky, where she majors in architecture. n

Bender

Dickerson

Wilson Maxwell

CALL FOR PAPERS CALL FOR PAPERS

You are invited to share your knowledge of today’s wire and cable manufacturing landscape with delegates at the 2025 Wire & Cable Conference in Krakow, Poland. Your participation should provide an in-depth view of the manufacturing advances in wire and cable research, operations, or production. Ferrous and nonferrous topics are welcome. Choose from the following topics or suggest one of your own.

conference: 14 OCTOBER 2025

ABSTRACTS DUE: MARCH 31, 2025

• Product Development

• AI and Industry 4.0

• System Security

• Workforce Training

• Production Efficiency

• Material Advancements

• Quality Management

• Professional Development

• Market Trends & Economic Factors

• Safety & Standards Compliance

• Sustainability & Environmental Impact

NOTICE OF ACCEPTANCE: MAY 21, 2025

MANUSCRIPTS DUE: SEPTEMBER 1, 2025

SUBMIT YOUR ABSTRACT:

ORGANIZED BY: bit.ly/WAIabstracts

Manufacturers GIVING BACK

Two years ago, this first-time feature presented a range of manufacturers that have given back to their communities. The return to this feature presents more such examples, including a few unique entries that show the concept can be both creative and flexible. Collectively, they show that there are many ways to do good, and that the rewards for doing so accrue in the human spirit. Finally, it’s never too late to participate, either on behalf of a company or just oneself.

Report: workers who volunteer make for happier employees

A recent study by Ares Management Corporation investigated the effects of workplace volunteer programs, conducting extensive interviews with more than 5,100 employees across five countries. Below are edited excerpts of its findings.

• Employees in volunteer programs are more likely than non-participants to be satisfied with their jobs (79% versus 55%), a 24-point difference; their organization’s culture (75% versus 54%); and the leadership team (71% versus 45%). They are more likely to be satisfied with their professional growth opportunities (70% versus 39%) and their salary and benefits (69% versus 45%). Other disparities were seen for opportunities or professional growth/development (70% vs 39%); developing new skills (72% vs 47%); and organizational leadership (71% vs 45%).

• When asked about volunteering, employees say that it has a positive impact on their capacity for teamwork (73%); yields personal fulfillment (71%); supports positive organizational reputation (71%), lifts employee morale (69%), and promotes their organization’s mission and values (69%).

• Most volunteers (96%) report they take part because they are thankful for what they have, followed closely by those who said it provides a sense of purpose (95%).

• Most employees (70%) want a commitment from executive leadership to the volunteer activities that their organization sponsors. In fact, the main reason (53%) that employees do not participate is because they do not believe that volunteerism is a priority for leadership. Other cited reasons were: concern about taking time off and a sense that the same people always participate (each 50%); that they were not encouraged at their organization (47%); followed by burnout (41%).

• Gen Z employees, i.e., those ages 18 to 26, want to make a positive impact on society and look to their employer to provide opportunities to help make this happen. Their #1 interest is professional skills-based volunteering (43%). Most are interested in volunteering regularly (40%). They are more likely than others to describe career advancement as a benefit of volunteerism (64%); they are more motivated to volunteer because it makes them feel part of a team (56%); and they are more likely to say workplace volunteering has a positive affect on teamwork/comaraderie (78%).

IEWC: offering multiple ways for staffers to give back

An ESOP business, IEWC provides wire, cable and fiber solutions to OEMs, contract manufacturers, assemblers and installers. It also provides multiple ways for employees at its 22 locations in 11 countries to give back locally. Below is an overview of causes the company is involved in, with a focus on one that has been especially beneficial.

IEWC’s Community Connect Program is powered by its employees, and the company believes in making it easier for them to take part.

IEWC provides any employee who wants to give back a paid workday off each year to do that; it offers a donation-matching program that doubles the impact when employees contribute to causes; it donates wire and cable supplies to local high schools, offering materials that encourage hands-on learning for students; its volunteer employees keep an adopted section of local highway clean and safe; and it supports seasonal initiatives, including toy, food, blood, school supply and other drives, where employees contribute items that help enrich opportunities and experiences for underprivileged families.

IEWC made a $20,000 donation to SHARP Literacy (SHARP), a non-profit organization that fosters a love of learning and brightening children’s futures through innovative STEAM-based experiential programs that include science, technology, engineering, the arts and math. Mike Veum, the company president & CEO, fully supports the goals of IEWC’s Community Connect program. Of note, the contribution was not just a matter of writing a check. It was made possible through the generous participation of suppliers and team members in the company’s annual Supplier Summit and Golf Outing in late July.

The donation will directly support SHARP’s educational programs that enrich children’s learning experiences within the community. This year’s event, which has become a much-anticipated annual tradition, fostered networking and collaboration among IEWC’s suppliers and sales teams and reinforced the company’s commitment to giving back to the community.

Dean Stier, the company’s director of communications, said that IEWC has sponsored SHARP Literacy since 2021. Last year, he had the chance to see their work in action during a classroom visit. The fifthgrade students were immersed in coding and constructing small robotic components for a competition. The classroom buzzed with excitement and collabora-

tion as they worked through challenges together. “It was incredible to see the spark of curiosity and creativity in their eyes, qualities that will serve them for years to come,” he recalled.

Stier’s connection to SHARP deepened when Lynda Welsh, the organization’s president, invited him to join their board. While he had participated in charitable efforts in the past, including helping to raise funds for the Special Olympics, this marked his first active leadership role in a community program. As a SHARP board member, he focused on communication strategies, ensuring that school administrators, parents, donors, and students fully understand the value of keeping STEAM-based education in classrooms. Earlier this year, he co-chaired a fundraising event for SHARP, which he described as a deeply rewarding experience.

“Supporting SHARP’s mission has never felt like work. It’s a privilege to contribute to an organization that’s making such a meaningful difference,” Stier said. “Their programs bring learning to life for children, equipping them with skills and confidence that will serve them far beyond the classroom.”

Stier said that at IEWC, “giving back isn’t just something we do, it’s part of who we are.” The Community Connect initiatives reflect the company culture, which emphasizes great people working together to do great things. It’s this culture that has earned the company recognition as a “Best Places to Work” company for five consecutive years. “By standing alongside exceptional organizations like SHARP Literacy, we’re not only advancing our business mission of connection, we’re also helping to build stronger communities and brighter futures.”

IEWC Director of Communications Dean Stier presents a check to Lynda Welsh, president & CEO of the SHARP Literacy program.

Students takes part in the hands-on SHARP program supported by IEWC.

Riverdale Mills: its wire anchors an iconic Christmas tradition

Riverdale Mills Corporation, a Northbridge-based manufacturer of welded wire mesh, has deep ties to the small fishing village of Gloucester, Massachusetts. It’s appropriate that the company’s wire be used for a unique Christmas tree, as explained below.

Lobstering has deep roots in Gloucester, Massachusetts, which is home to the modern lobster trap. It also is at the heart of a special tradition that has evolved.

Gloucester’s Lobster Trap Tree, conceived by Janice Lufkin Shea in 2001, is the quintessential symbol for this lobstering community. For years, volunteers assembled wooden traps to create a trap tree, and each season it grew in height. Last year, organizers wanted to do something special for the town’s 400th anniversary: make the tree out of 400 lobster traps. They turned to Jim Knott, Jr., CEO of Riverdale Mills, whose company makes Aquamesh®, a wire mesh the company invented specifically for lobster traps. He donated 10,000 lb of the wire and then enlisted a long-time customer: Maine-based Brooks Trap Mills, which agreed to construct the traps.

Riverdale Mills CEO Jim Knott, Jr., l, with event organizer David Brooks. Below are photos showing the inside of the Lobster Trap Tree and the lit final display.

Dozens of volunteers will soon again assemble the tree— which has its own Facebook page and has been written about in The New York Times, The Washington Post and Conde Nast Traveler—to be lit on Dec. 14.

The resulting 45-foot-tall “tree” in 2023 honored the city’s rich fishing history in a most appropriate community effort. The event was led by event organizer David Brooks. Cape Ann Art Haven organized painting sessions for local children who decorated the more than 800 buoys that adorn the tree. Some 3,000 people attended the ceremony. The tree was not just a holiday wonder. It proved to be sturdy, weathering winds of 70 miles per hour. It has also been sustainable, as the traps were later stored for future displays, and some have been lent out to youth groups.

One of the largest manufacturers of welded wire mesh for the marine, security, construction and agriculture industries, Riverdale Mills has long been part of other philanthropic giving and innovative partnerships with community organizers in Massachusetts’ Blackstone Valley, where the company is based. Yet for Jim Knott, Jr., the Lobster Trap Tree resonates in a special way. “Our involvement is a testament to our deep ties to the city of Gloucester and our enduring commitment to the lobster industry,” he said.

Sequel Wire & Cable: giving runs in the family

Sequel Wire and Cable (Sequel), in Argos, Indiana, produces copper fabricated and insulated wire and cable products for use in a variety of markets such as OEM, wire and cable distribution, appliance, automotive and recreational vehicles. Sequel supports multiple causes as part of its mission.

Feed My Starving Children (FMSC), a Christian nonprofit, is a cause that Sequel employees volunteer to help every November by packing meals for undernourished children. It takes place at Nappanee Missionary Church, which hosts volunteers from various organizations and succeeds in packing 1,000,000+ meals in that one week.

For Sequel employees, volunteering goes beyond just showing up: it truly is a friends and family event. This year more than two dozen Sequel employees participated, many bringing friends and family so the number helping topped 150+ volunteers. All wore Sequel shirts as they made a difference working side-by-side. The littlest participants stood on stools to reach and were excited to help.

Sequel volunteers were joined by staff from Dave Carter Associates, a top Sequel RV wire distributor. Other community volunteers included a baseball team and employee coaches. Leaders don’t ask employees to do things they wouldn’t do themselves, as seen by President Richard Carr doing his part on the assembly line.

Employee Angela Reinbolt, whose son-in-law also works at Sequel, brought her grandson, who served on the packing team. She enjoyed the opportunity to be there right next to her grandkids. “It’s fulfilling to give a bit of ourselves to make a difference for others, and being part of a large group of people with the same purpose is incredibly rewarding. My seven-year-old grandson was amazed to hear the number of meals we packed together—it was such a meaningful experience!”

Employees appreciate working for Sequel, which was certified as a “Great Place to Work” for 2024-2025. Part of qualifying for the award is employee feedback, and 98% of Sequel employees had agreed that they are “proud to tell

others I work here,” and that Sequel “Contributes greatly to its community and employees.”

The ingredients for meals were chosen by food science and nutrition professionals. Donations fund the cost and volunteers, like those from Sequel, hand-pack the meals.

One enthusiastic employee, Danell Webster, said that she found the experience meaningful. “They encourage us to bring our family and friends along. It’s such a powerful way to bring people together for a common cause—helping others. The time flies by, and by the end, you find yourself wishing you could stay for another shift!”

The company estimated that its volunteer force had accounted for some 35,000 meals, which are donated to FMSC food partners around the world. The entire shift packed 100,000 meals.

A cable service provider gives back ... with community help

Following a May 21 tornado that caused massive damage to the infrastructure across Adair County, Iowa, Kinetic—a supplier of fiber-based broadband to residential and small business customers—invested $250,000 to provide and bury 28,500 ft of optical fiber to some 200 locations. State Gov. Kim Reynolds praised the company’s contribution. The story, as reported, was not a simple one. In the hours following the tornado, Kinetic gathered a disaster response team of engineers, communicators, customer service representatives, field employees and technicians to work with local authorities and utility companies to assess and evaluate damages. It also focused on developing solutions to withstand future such situations.

This kind of engineering process can take months, but Kinetic did it in just a few days. Infused by the community input, the team’s engineering plan was approved in about two weeks. From there, it all fell into place.

“In the tornado’s aftermath, it’s not just about rebuilding. It’s about reimagining a stronger, safer, and more sustainable community,” said Brad Hedrick, Kinetic’s Midwest regional president, noting that the company was investing in the long term-spirit of the community, its people and its future. “I want to convey to every single resident of Greenfield, we’re with you. We’ve been with you since before the storm, and we’ll continue to be here as we rebuild together.”

Part of the Sequel Wire crew at work on the assembly line.

A Direct Wire Inspiration

Fishy idea? Not in the least!

The long-ago launching of a most unusual fundraiser to serve the local community stemmed from a wire and cable industry president who was also firmly committed to another community: that of fly fishermen. Per the event credo, “When you cast your line, you change lives.”

It happened 18 years ago. Pennsylvania’s Lancaster County Career and Technology Foundation (LCCTF) was contemplating a golf event to raise funds for the school, and Richard Witwer, the president of Direct Wire, and an avid fly fisherman, had other ideas. He showed up unexepctedly, at the board meeting, decked out in full gear: boots, waders, rod, flies and hat. He was armed with a pro-forma plan and P&L. The board was stunned, the hook had been set and thus was born FLY on the RUN.

The event is not about prize money or even bragging rights. There are modest awards and a certificate for fly fishing gear, but Witwer has insisted that FLY on the RUN is a fundraising and social event for a very good cause. The first event took a lot of work but netted an impressive $16,000. The LCCTF got better at organizing, and asking businesses for sponsorships and to fund scholarships, and the fishing fundraiser has continued to drive that success. Over its remarkable history, through leadership by the Witwer Family, FLY on the RUN has steadily grown in participation, funds raised, and scholarships provided, cementing its place as a cornerstone of community support. Starting as a small event, it has now raised over $1,000,000 and funded more than 500 scholarships and workforce

grants, along with equipment for career and technology programs. Held annually at the Lititz Run at the Millport Conservancy, the event attracts individuals and teams of all skill levels who fish along two miles of trout stream. In 2024, more than 120 participants helped raise $120,000, demonstrating another record-breaking year. With momentum building, the event is poised to be even bigger in 2025, continuing its tradition of making a significant impact.

The LCCTF Endowment Fund supports the Lancaster County Career and Technology Center, which serves 16 districts and offers more than 60 programs for fields from nursing and culinary to transportation and plumbing. The collective programs aim to improve the financial standing of families and provide a pipeline of quality employees to Lancaster County’s businesses and industries. Programs include basic programs for industrial maintenance (56 students enrolled, 46 graduated) and welding (118 students enrolled, 115 graduated) and 88% of attending adult students are either employed or continuing their education. Also, Direct Wire donates welding cable to many of the vo-tech schools for use in their classrooms and training.

Witwer said he is pleased that the organization, traffic control, meals (lunch and banquet dinner) for FLY on the

Arms outspread, Richard Witwer’s concept for a fundraiser produced a whopper of a “fish story”... only this one’s for real.

RUN were all handled by students. He noted their quality education can lead to “gold-star” jobs. He also pointed out that supporting them is in everyone’s best interest.

“Direct Wire remains dedicated to fundraising, education, and community involvement, all while supporting the industries that depend on the manufacturing and cable products essential for powering the world,” Witwer said. “We are committed to this event that supports the manufac-

turing and welding industries by ensuring the future of the vo-tech schools and students, but also beyond that to other causes, and not just local ones.”

Below is a list of other Direct Wire initiatives.

• Technical education support. Each year we host vocational-technical school students, providing hands-on learning experiences with our manufacturing equipment.

• Disaster relief. During Hurricane Katrina, we donated five truckloads of water and supplies to those in need. Similarly, we supported relief efforts following the earthquake in Haiti, providing emergency supplies to impacted employees’ families and critical power cables for emergency use.

• Community food drive. Our annual food drive helps combat food insecurity within our local community.

• Pink cable initiative. Partnering with the Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition, Direct Wire sold 100,000 feet of pink cable, with a portion of proceeds donated.

Encore Wire: community giving back literally starts at home

Encore Wire, now a part of Prysmian, give backs to the community in multiple ways. This story is about giving back, but it’s not about a specific location. Rather, it’s for a community of deserving people with special needs. In this instance, five wounded warriors that received a specially built free home, courtesy of an industry-supported cause.

Encore Wire employees have long been active in various charitable organizations, but sometimes great, meaningful results can come from being part of a multiple organization effort.

A good example of this is Encore Wire’s ongoing participation in the Gary Sinise Foundation’s R.I.S.E. Program that provides new homes for veterans and first responders injured in the line of duty. Since 2019, Encore Wire has provided the electrical materials to support the construction of nearly 30 specially-adapted smart homes.

The Foundation’s R.I.S.E. Program (Restoring Independence, Supporting Empowerment) is made possible through generous monetary and in-kind donations from various national partners, sub-contractors and the American public.

The Springfield, Oregon, home of retired U.S. Navy Veteran Joshua Geddis and his family.

The St. Charles, Illinois, home of U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 (Ret.) Patrick Scrogin and his family.

The Lebanon, Ohio, home of U.S. Navy Petty Officer First Class John Kremer and his family.

The Bonita, California, home of retired USMC Cpl. Jose Armenta and his family.

The Springfield, Missouri, home of Police Officer Mark Priebe and his family.

HELUKABEL: charity efforts define company values and vision

Electrical connection technology supplier HELUKABEL USA, a subsidiary of Germany’s HELUKABEL GmbH, has long supported different ways of giving back. Below, the company outlines several initiatives that reflect this approach.

HELUKABEL USA has focused on supporting the environment, nurturing future engineers and helping those in need. These initiatives not only uplift those they serve, they align with a commitment to sustainable, inclusive growth, with a direct and indirect effect on their local communities.

For instance, this past Earth Day, HELUKABEL distributed sugar maple saplings to be planted by staff at their home or a friend’s residence. This first-time effort saw more than two dozen staffers take the saplings home. That small initiative encourages personal participation in environmental conservation and promotes the value of green spaces in community areas.

On a more industry direct note, HELUKABEL USA has provided cables and accessories for electrical harnesses to power cars from teams across the county, including The University of Illinois (Illini Electric Motorsports and Illini Solar Car), Princeton University (Princeton Racing Electric), Rutgers University (Rutgers Formula Racing), and Louisiana State University (LSU TigerRacing). “Our local sales reps often stop by to interact with the students,” said Marketing Manager Kevin Siegel, HELUKABEL

HELUKABEL USA is in the fast lane, yet it also believes in the potential of long-term objectives.

USA. “We believe that empowering those communities of young minds to drive the innovations of tomorrow has merit.”

This month HELUKABEL will again support a food and coat drive to support our local shelter and food pantry. These charitable initiatives are not isolated acts but part of a larger commitment to leaving a positive legacy.

Southwire Canada named a ‘Giving Back’ award winner

Southwire Canada was recognized in September for its culture of giving back by an organization that singles out businesses that foster a culture of giving back to the communities where employees live and work.

The award—The 2024 Best Workplaces for Giving Back—was issued by Great Place to Work® , which chose Southwire Canada based on its exceptional dedication to social responsibility, community engagement and making a positive impact on society.

“I’m incredibly proud that Southwire Canada has been recognized as a 2024 Best Workplace for Giving Back,” said Southwire People & Culture Manager Rahila Dhansi. “This recognition highlights the importance we place on giving back, and I want to thank Greg Lewis, Southwire Canada’s giving back lead, and all our team members for their dedication.”

proven to deliver market-leading revenue, employee retention, and increased innovation. Each year, it recognizes outstanding workplaces in more than 60 countries. The Best Workplaces for Giving Back list is based on feedback from employees about their company’s commitment to social responsibility and its efforts to contribute to the community.

Southwire Canada’s ongoing initiatives include its partnering with local organizations across the country to provide resources and support to those in need. That ranges from donating backpacks filled with school supplies to underserved students to volunteering with community programs. “Our team continuously seeks ways to create meaningful and lasting change.”

Great Place to Work® is a global authority on workplace culture, employee experience and leadership behaviors

In 2023, Southwire’s overall employee base operations logged 16,898 hours from Project GIFT® volunteers in 2023. Thousands of bags were filled with school supplies distributed to students. Nearly $3 million was contributed in charitable donations with $750,000 focused on DEI initiatives.

WCMA: giving back by association

The Wire & Cable Manufacturers’ Alliance, Inc. (WCMA) is a non-profit corporate business association serving manufacturers of low to high voltage electrical, electronic and fiber optic wire and cable with operations located in North America. Below, WCMA Executive Director, Ed Fenton shares his thoughts on how his association fits in “giving back.”

WJI: The Wire and Cable Clubs of America was transformed to the WCMA in 2004? How did it change?

Fenton: We have evolved but in many ways the format of our three yearly events has not changed much. The Wire and Cable Clubs of America was founded by Dick and Harriet Callahan to host meetings for upper management of the electrical wire and cable manufacturers and suppliers to network. It had an annual holiday meeting that at times featured educational speakers. Our Awards dinner recognizes key industry contributors and leaders. Our golf outing provides the industry with another networking opportunity. And now we have a proactive Young Professionals group that is literally running itself for the under-40 part of our industry. The difference is that we’ve become more formalized. We are a 501C corporation with by-laws, operating guidelines and a board of directors, versus being a private promotional enterprise.

WJI: Why does a body like the WCMA matter?

Fenton: There’s lots of reasons, but one that jumps out is that the wire and cable industry makes a real difference. Our member companies manufacture products that make it possible for society to function. That’s easy to take for granted but it is no small feat. The WCMA helps the industry interact. Ours is a “big” small industry, and to be known and to know people who are part of it is invaluable. Our Distinguished Career Awards are bestowed on well-deserving individuals to have made a difference. They are

as deserving of recognition as anyone in Hollywood, and probably more so, other than they don’t have publicists.

WJI: The WCMA depends financially on its members: how has that flow been over the years?

Fenton: I believe that the wire and cable industry must be one of the most generous there is. Our member companies appreciate what we do, and they have consistently been willing to give back. You might think that times were bad during Covid. Well, that was a bad period, but we actually saw our member numbers and contact points increase because it was hard for people to travel, and they turned to us for information. We’re close to that being past history. The number of participants at our events are nearly back to traditional levels. Charitable contributions to Toys for Tots, cancer research and other causes, including outside scholarship programs, now total five figures. WCMA donates to scholarship programs offered by the Wire Association International, International Wire & Cable Symposium and the American Copper Council.

WJI: One place you have made changes is your focus on younger professionals, including establishing the WCMA Young Professional of the Year Award in 2023. Why was that important?

Fenton: All industries want to encourage young, hard-working ambitious individuals to make their indus-

In 2020, Ed Fenton presides over the WCMA’s Distinguished Career Award ceremony that honors the industry’s best.

try a long-term career choice. There are lots of choices for young people, and by recognizing the accomplishments of a person who personifies what the award intends, the idea is that other young professionals will see this as an inspiration, that this could possibly be their story too.

WJI: Why should a young person want to consider the wire and cable industry more than a stepping-stone, possibly to a flashier field?

Fenton: That’s a good question, and I’d like to go back to our 2023 Annual Meeting, because we hosted over 60 attendees at the inaugural Young Professional Panel Discussion, “Why Wire & Cable - A Rewarding Career Choice.” It was moderated by CCG President Charles Glew; James Monroe Wire & Cable President David Fisher; and Chase Corp. President and CEO Adam Chase. They presented a compelling story on career opportunities and talent retention in the wire and cable industry –all based on our industry having a high level of desire to promote mentoring for young people.

WJI: How would you summarize the pluses of being in the field?

Fenton: What’s amazing and wonderful about the wire and cable industry is not a secret but it may not be fully appreciated. If you are willing to work, are ambitious and do not expect people to hand anything to you that is not earned, you can be a success. This industry can offer many paths, including unexpected ones. You might start out as a process engineer and switch at some point to a sales position. The industry and companies in it provide room to grow and discover new directions. Further, this is a small world, and you can become known for who you are. Again, there’s no getting around the need to pay your dues, but if

you want to stand out in a field, you’ve come to the right place. I don’t think that essence has changed any in my 34 years in the industry. With all the talk of technology, all the news about AI and other technology that is likely to become a bigger part of the mix, this field will continue to be about the people.

WJI: Does being successful tie in to giving back?

Fenton: I’d like to think so. I said before that I’ve long been impressed by how generous the people in this field are. Part of being successful is that it allows you to take actions, and I believe that people in this field want to give back. I won’t name names because there are so many that do give back that I wouldn’t want to leave some out.

WJI: Do you have any advice for young people in the field now who aren’t sure what they want to do?

Fenton: I’d encourage them to explore where they are and what they are doing. Don’t sit back passively… get involved! There are many veterans in the field who would be willing to share their knowledge. There are far more opportunities around you than you might realize. You can advance, and someday you’ll be in the position that you can give back to others. That’s why I still enjoy what I do. I have a full-time job with Daiken America, and I’m fortunate that they have been very supportive of my WCMA duties. I can see that we are doing good work. We do give back, and at the end of the day, that matters.

Collections from raffles and sponsorships from WCMA’s golf outing go to an annual contribution to cancer research.

Timely presentations are part of the WCMA mission.

Quabbin Wire: everyone benefits from educational partnership

Quabbin Wire & Cable Co., Inc. (Quabbin Wire) makes a wide range of data, power and control cable. Below, Stacy Gilmour, vice president HR and corporate services, discusses the company’s desire to volunteer.

As industries strive to meet the demands of modern-day manufacturing, Quabbin Wire & Cable Co., Inc., has been at the forefront, actively shaping the next generation of skilled workers through its steadfast commitment to community engagement and education. The company has long been a strong advocate for providing local youth with the resources and experiences necessary to succeed in the workforce. It collaborates with schools, local organizations and the broader community to support workforce development, particularly for high school students. Quabbin initiatives can see a dozen or more employees active during factory tours, student internships and school-based events.

One of the cornerstones to Quabbin’s ongoing involvement with the local school-to-career partnership is its desire to bridge the gap between academic education and the skills needed in the modern workplace. Quabbin employees have served as regular and active members of the board of directors for this partnership, helping shape programs and establishing a scholarship program for graduating seniors.

As a founding member of the Ware Manufacturing Partnership Council, Quabbin has worked alongside other local manufacturers to promote awareness of career opportunities in manufacturing. The goal is to challenge outdated perceptions and inspire young people to consider manufacturing as a viable and rewarding career option.

Quabbin has hosted numerous student tours that provide first-hand exposure to the inner workings of a manufacturing plant. These tours allow students to interact with cuttingedge machinery, meet industry professionals and see how products come to life from concept to completion. They get to touch and feel products and learn how to assemble and test them at classroom workshops.

Each August, a team of Quabbin employees volunteers for the school’s “Block Party,” sporting company shirts and flipping burgers on the grill. It’s a simple, yet meaningful,

It’s tour time at the company’s plant in Ware, Massachusetts, which has hosted many such visits over the years.

gesture that reflects Quabbin Wire’s belief that community-building can create lasting connections. It’s also a positive experience for the company participants. “I like being a hands-on part of the community,” said Noella Conroy, a three-year employee who always volunteers.

Quabbin Wire is a big supporter of internship programs for high school and university students. They give students a chance to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world settings, develop professional skills and gain insight into the day-to-day operations of a manufacturing company. They get to see what different departments do, from engineering to marketing, and how they come together to create a successful operation for a business that started out in 1975 with two people and one lone machine and grew to provide 100 jobs to the community. That type of education will provide value to students whatever path they may take.

Quabbin Wire’s Moises Deliz and Katie Pietrowski are ready to present Wire & Cable 101 at Ware High School.

David Murphy explains the difference between different types of cable products.

Small companies can contribute in sneaky-smart ways

The U.S. Small Business Administration fosters small business through mentoring and education. It encourages companies to volunteer, but doing so in a meaningful way can be too much of a stretch for many businesses that do not have deep pockets. Below is an edited list of practical ways that have been suggested by an SBA partner to make it simpler for busy companies to volunteer.

SERVE AS A TEACHER

Have each employee sign up to teach one class, every few months at an after-school program for at-risk kids. Offer examples of subjects such as yoga, dance, singing, coding, karate, acting, etc. Organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club of America will be thrilled to have new teachers. Even better, you will only miss one employee at a time!

HOST AN ITEM DRIVE

Plan an item drive for an organization or cause you are passionate about supporting. That could be a school supplies drive for your local schools, a canned food drive for a local food bank, or a clothing drive for families. Notify employees about the drive, have a collection area, and coordinate to have someone drop off the donations. Item drives are a great way to make a big difference in your community, and they don’t take up too much time or resources to plan.

AVOID THE LEGWORK

Volunteer work is an excellent way for small businesses to communicate their values, but working with some organizations/nonprofits can require a lot of legwork, especially if there are unexpected obstacles. You can avoid that headache by working with established, well-known entities that have strict guidelines. They need not be big to do this. Look for a cause that has a history of doing events. Let their experience make your experience far less stressful.

E-PLANT A TREE

There are multiple organizations that will plant a tree in your name, so your company can be doing its part in battling global warming. The cost? It’s basically, the amount you want to spend, and it’s even simpler if you are not seeking to claim carbon credits. There are many providers for this electronic service that delivers real results, so this is money well spent!

JOIN A LARGER EFFORT

When it comes to volunteer groups, bigger often is better. They may offer multiple opportunities to take part in: you can enter a charity race, donate goods to a charity auction, join a community cleanup day or participate in a food drive. These projects often have simple systems for groups to join, and event staff will take care of the organization and administration. They know how to do that, so all you have to do is drop in, do good and return to business without having to plan and execute the event. Also, their credibility becomes your credibility.

RECRUIT SURROGATES

If you want to do some good in your community but can’t spare staff, use a surrogate. In other words, find some volunteer mercenaries. One lady got the local high school’s JV baseball team to volunteer. She bought their new jerseys and the team spent hours on a Saturday doing volunteer work on the company’s behalf. The company got the credit for picking up trash in the park, the community got a cleaner park, and the team got new jerseys. Win-win-win!

ORGANIZE A FUNDRAISING EVENT

Every community service group requires monetary donations, but you don’t have to open your checkbook to help. You may help by hosting a fund-raiser for your favorite charity. You can make a difference by organizing a philanthropic raffle, walkathon, race or other local event. You can offer something just as valuable as money: your time. n

PRODUCTS

equipment, supplies and more

Celebrating its 100th anniversary, company highlighted its LS FR compounds at IWCS

At IWCS, U.S.-based Teknor Apex focused on how, for more than 35 years, the company’s line of FireGUARD® LS FR (Low-Smoke Flame Retardant) PVC compounds has been a game-changer in the wire and cable industry. Per the company, the innovative compounds offer a cost-friendly alternative to traditional fluoropolymers, providing exceptional fire safety, flexibility, and ease of installation. FireGUARD LS FR excels in plenum spaces, critical areas where cables run between ceilings and floors. Here, strict fire safety codes demand low smoke generation and flame spread to minimize fire hazards. FireGUARD surpasses these requirements.

Beyond fire safety, FireGUARD LS FR boasts impressive flexibility. Unlike some fluoropolymers, FireGUARD maintains excellent pliability at low temperatures, making it easier to install cables in tight spaces without kinking or cracking. This improved workability saves time and reduces installation costs.

FireGUARD LS FR is also a versatile performer. The compound is well-suited for a wide range of cable applications, including copper data cables and fiber optic cables. Its excellent electrical properties ensure reliable signal transmission, making it a trusted choice for demanding data and communication applications.

Teknor Apex, celebrating its 100th year in 2024, has been a trusted partner to the wire and cable industry for over 70 years. At IWCS, company representatives talked to attendees about the company’s overall diverse product portfolio, which includes Apex flexible PVC, Flexalloy PVC elastomers, Halguard halogen-free, flame-retardant compounds,

and Elexar thermoplastic elastomers. FireGUARD LS FR is just one example of Teknor Apex’s commitment to innovation and providing high-performance solutions for the industry.

Contact: Teknor Apex, tel. 410-642-3309, email@email.com, www.teknorapex.com.

At IWCS, company discussed its ability to provide highly customized braided products

At IWCS, Conneaut Industries, founded in 1930, explained to attendees why its approach to delivering precision-wound braider products to highly specified markets matters.

Per the company, Conneaut routinely supplies the aerospace, auto, medical, and other markets with highly specified requirements. Combining world-class input yarns with nearly a century of winding expertise, it provides precision-winding bobbins for a vast array of braiding applications. The fundamental key to consistent quality is simple: the winding process.

The winding process involves systematically arranging materials onto a core or spool to create a usable product in a braiding process. The process integrates advanced technology and precision engineering to meet the unique needs of industry applications and products. Precision winding techniques are used to meticulously arrange materials onto the core or spool to achieve repeatable winding patterns and configurations that include parallel winding, multi-end winding, or specialized serving package winding.

Conneaut has vast experience in winding different materials, such as fiberglass, polyester, aramids, nylon, cotton,

and polyglass. The differences in material characteristics offer unique product performance. Equally important is having a firm understanding of how material product characteristics impact processing, and that is one of the strong points of Conneaut Industries.

One other vital process step is how the winding process works. The company uses automated monitoring systems to continuously monitor key parameters such as tension levels, winding speed, and alignment to detect any deviations or defects while technicians conduct thorough inspections to ensure that the finished products meet the stringent quality requirements. These collective steps are what take a commodity product and make it mesh well into the production process of wire and cable manufacturers.

Contact: Conneaut Industries, tel. 410-392-1110, info@Conneaut.com, www.conneaut.com.

2 high-performance polymers presented at IWCS meet many manufacturing needs

At IWCS, Arkema, a raw material producer of thermoplastic resins, exhibited an array of high-performance materials—Kynar® PVDF and Rilsan® —used for wire and cable jacketing.

Per the company, Kynar PVDF is used for its natural flame-resistance properties. Kynar resin does not easily

burn and will self-extinguish when the flame source is removed, making it ideal for building plenum applications and compliant with several key UL standards for plenum constructions. Its high mechanical strength, UV resistance, abrasion resistance, and cut-through resistance allow Kynar PVDF to maintain the integrity of the cable insulation and to withstand the abuses during the installation of cables.

In addition to fire performance, many grades of Kynar PVDF are rated at 150°C RTI and can be used in temperatures as low as -40°C. Additional applications include indoor-outdoor optical fiber cables, heat shrink tubing, cathodic protection cables, and conduits.

Rilsan PA11 is a high-performance polymer of 100% renewable origin. Manufactured using castor oil as its starting source, Rilsan PA11 allows companies to drive toward more sustainable solutions. As a long-chain poly-

amide material, Rilsan PA11 exhibits toughness and abrasion resistance, making it ideal for installations requiring anti-rodent and anti-termite resistance. Further applications include power cables and oil and gas offshore cables, where both chemical resistance and flexibility are key for performance.

Contact: Arkema, Luigi Puglia, www.arkema.com, luigi.puglia@arkema.com.

Company’s lines of cable fillers showcased at IWCS excel for use in production process

At IWCS, Canada-based Guelph Twines presented its diverse line of polypropylene, paper, and flame-retardant cable fillers, with company representatives ready to explain how they can help your projects.

• Twisted fibrillated fillers. These were designed to be ideal for filling empty spaces in cables. Made for easy

handling during cable manufacturing, they feature a soft mesh-like pattern that uniformly fills the vacant spaces between conductors inside the cable. These easy-to-handle fillers ensure uniform structural support. Available in standard and flame-retardant options, they range in size from .04 in. to .180 in.

• Twisted plastic fillers. These provide mechanical support and reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and crosstalk. These fillers are crafted by twisting extruded plastic tape to form a round length—perfect for maintaining the cable’s shape. For applications that require a round profile to fill voids, the extruded tape is twisted to form a round length. They are available in various sizes from .045 in. to .350 in.

• Twisted paper fillers. These fillers maintain the geometry of an electrical cable by supporting and stabilizing it. The company manufactures them by slitting large rolls of paper into varying widths, dipping the strips into wax, and twisting the strips around a reinforcement material (typically fiberglass) for a solid round filler. They are offered in

standard and flame-retardant versions, with sizes ranging from .055 in. to .313 in.

Per the company, all its product lines are made to exacting industry standards, and quality, precision, and exceptional customer service are top priorities. With quick shipping that includes same-day or next-day delivery for some products, they ensure minimal wait times. Plus, their experienced team is committed to producing custom solutions on short lead times.

Contact: Mike Ironberg, Guelph Twines, tel. 519-8219140 or 888-771-9140, mike@guelphtwines.com, www.guelphtwines.com.

Semi-conductive compounds shown at IWCS have durable scorch resistance

At IWCS, Alphagary showcased the company’s ESCONTEK® semiconductive compounds, designed for the semiconductive layers of medium- and high-voltage (MV and HV) power cables.

During the manufacturing process, semiconductive compounds are precisely mixed to ensure a smooth and clean surface with minimal residue, as semiconductive layers need low ionic impurities for enhanced cable reliability. The carbon black is evenly dispersed, eliminating surface bumps or protrusions that can interrupt the electrical performance of the power cable. Materials are formulated for low-volume resistivity, which helps semiconductive layers maintain performance at both normal and emergency operating temperatures.

The exceptional purity, smoothness, and uniformity of ESCONTEK compounds ensure that customers can process these materials on high-speed equipment for long production runs while consistently maintaining performance integrity. The company’s recently expanded capabilities to manufacture semiconductive compounds incorporate advanced precision weighing systems and innovative raw material dispersion techniques that help ensure superior quality of the semiconductive layer of the power cable.

ESCONTEK compounds comply with industry standards such as ANSI, IEC, and UL when processed with proper material handling, extrusion, cross-linking, and testing practices. Visit our website for more information. Contact: Alphagary, tel. 401-642-3309, email@email.com, www.alphagary.com.

Color concentrates at IWCS offer strong colors, have anti-scorching properties

At IWCS 2024, the Chroma Color team shared details about its ChromaQuasar™ color concentrates line that exemplifies the company’s expertise in pigment selection, formulation and manufacturing in a readily incorporated dry pellet form.

Per the company, Chroma Color’s Advanced XLPE formulations are specifically designed for harsh environments such as construction, mining, refineries, power plants, aerospace, and chemical plants. ChromaQuasar upholds the superior mechanical properties of finished goods while imparting vibrant color, all while lowering overall costs.

The color concentrates exhibit high color strength and anti-scorching properties. They are highly concentrated, so less is needed, even for heavily filled flame-retardant compounds. Each concentrate is suitable and intended for

Interlock Strip

Armouring:

5 inch / 125 mm Machine

• Round and flat products

• 3/8 in to 1 in wide metal strip

• Clean air with advanced lubricant mist

• collection & HEPA filter

• Fast product changes with set-up jigs

• Optional advanced lubricant

• application system minimzes usage

the full range of FR blend choices in XLPE constructions from 80/20 (20% FR) to 50/50 (50% FR), while using a range of 1%-3% color loadings.

Suitable applications include FR urethane, FR zero halogen PE, XLPE, and XLPO standard HDPE insulation compounds. The carrier resin is a proprietary polyethylene that has excellent performance and compatibility characteristics.

XLPE (UV) solutions can be tailored for the rapidly evolving EV automotive market, where high-voltage

For ESP down well, MC, AC, AC90, Teck90, tical, Hybrid, and Instrumentation cables Optical,

demands are pushing boundaries. These products meet stringent ASTM standards, ensuring reliability and safety. For more information, visit the company’s website.

Contact: Chroma Color, tel. 609-397-8200, sales@chromacolors.com, www.chromacolors.com.

3rd edition book on coolant/metalworking released by veteran WAI tech expert

Joseph Marketing announced the recent release of its new book that updates two prior editions: Coolant/ Metalworking Fluids, 3rd Edition; Technology Update, which has been added to the WAI Store.

This essential resource by James Joseph has been thoroughly updated to help both industry veterans and newcomers navigate the complexities of coolant and metalworking fluid management in modern production environments. The softcover book has 233 pages (8.5 in. by 11 in.) and includes 81 illustrations and a glossary of terms.

What’s new in the 3rd Edition? It introduces a fresh perspective on portable filtration modules in Chapter 9, a crucial update for small installations or mobile operations within a facility. The portable modules are engineered to travel efficiently between workstations, servicing individual machine sumps that help reduce waste disposal rates and drive down costs. These compact units offer small-scale operations the same cost-saving advantages historically enjoyed by larger

plants, making efficient coolant management more accessible across production scales.

Another noteworthy addition is a section in Chapter 4 on nonwoven media, which has evolved from traditional woven cotton. This new filtration media presents a modernized solution, allowing users to maximize filtration efficiency without sacrificing quality, and reflects the innovative progress in materials technology.

The carryover content includes standard definitions of terms and explains the theory of equilibrium, where the amount of contaminants removed by the cleaning system equals the amount introduced at the operation. It also includes a cursory description of the types of coolants and contaminants found in metalworking operations.

The features of the book are not limited to just metalworking operations, as they also apply to non-metalworking operations. Other items carried over include the fundamentals of clarification, the difference between filtration and separation, the main points of closed-loop systems, system performance, progressive dilution, and the equilibrium theory. It features typical cleaning equipment, including centrifugal, magnetic, gravity and flotation systems. Popular filters are covered in various designs for gravity, vacuum and pressure systems. It outlines the logic of equipment selection and systems used to add a cleaning facility or update an older installation. It covers typical operations such as grinding, machining, rolling, and wire drawing.

A WAI Life member, Joseph participated in many Association committees and boards through the years. He was awarded the WAI’s Donnellan Memorial Award in 1996 for his technical contributions. He has written and presented many papers at Association events and conducted numerous seminars on coolant filtration for many WAI members.

The book can be ordered at the WAI Store. Just go to www.wirenbet.org, click on Resources, then Products/ Services, then WAI Store. 

SECTOR UPDATE

Lubricants/filtration

BB

Payoff BB-3000KG-HT

What do you offer?

BB Spring Technology, represented in the U.S. by AIM, designs and manufactures high-precision, spring coiling machines we make in Italy. Our flagship products can coil springs up to 25 mm and are equipped with state-of-theart technology to ensure optimal performance. We also provide custom machinery tailored to specific industrial needs and applications. Our equipment is ready for seamless integration into any smart manufacturing environment.

What should readers know about your company?

1. Advanced technology and customization. Leveraging advanced technology, our machines set benchmarks for efficiency and performance in spring manufacturing. We offer extensive customization options so our clients to fine-tune their production processes and meet diverse manufacturing specs with precision.

2. Comprehensive service. Our service support includes local/remote assistance that adheres to the latest cybersecurity compliance standards. Whether it’s on-site troubleshooting, remote diagnostics or routine maintenance, we ensure your operations remain uninterrupted with secure, state-of-the-art interventions.

3. Dependability. Our high-performance machines embodying durability and reliability while needing minimal maintenance. Customers get sustained productivity and lower total cost of ownership.

Contact: Giacomo Gerosa, COO, tel. +39-031-536584 giacomo.gerosa@bbspringtechnology.com

U.S.: Constantine Grapsas, AIM, cg@aimachines.com

Bennet Mahler SG1-200 model spring system.

What do you offer?

Based in the U.K., and exclusively represented in the U.S. by NIMSCO, Bennett Mahler designs and manufactures a wide range of spring manufacturing machinery in their purpose-built factory in Redditch, England. The range of spring-grinding machines includes double-end crash grinders, down-feed grinders, tandem grinders, twinplate grinders, single-end grinders and tub grinders. The company’s MAXICOIL line of spring-coiling lathes can produce a wide range of springs for many applications and were designed for ease of use, repeatability and robustness. Having full engineering, design and manufacturing capabilities allows Bennett Mahler to also produce a range of custom and specialized machines, such as OD chamfering machines, auger coiling machines, spring end trimmers and cutters.

What should readers know about your company?

1. History. Bennett Mahler was formed in 1935, and its first spring coiling machine was produced in 1945 (for which spare parts are still available!).

2. Range. We produce spring end grinding machines to cover a wire diameter range from 0.2-60 mm. The MAXICOIL line of spring-coiling lathes cover a wire diameter range from 0.2-25 mm.

3. Representation. We have exceptional agents in multiple countries, including NIMSCO in the U.S., which offer full sales, responsive service and spare parts.

Contact: Jerry Ashdown, president, NIMSCO j.ashdown@nimsco.com. www.nimsco.com

BENNETT MAHLER U.K.

SPRING TECHNOLOGY ITALY/USA

FENN USA

A before-and-after FENN upgrade of an existing system.

What do you offer?

FENN, LLC, a global supplier of customized metal forming machinery since 1900, provides end-to-end service for customers. We proudly provide upgrade and remanufacture service for all FENN, Torin and MACBEE machinery. Products made in our Connecticut headquarters include Torin spring coilers, swagers, rolling mills, drawbenches, turks heads, wire flattening & shaping equipment and specialty drawing equipment. We also support all product lines with OEM spare parts and service. We pride ourselves on manufacturing rigid machinery that is built to last. Whether your equipment has worn out or your production requirements have changed, our staff is available to provide an upgrade solution to meet the needs of your application.

What should readers know about your company?

1. We can breathe new life into your outdated machinery through rebuilds/upgrades. By adding functionality, it will increase efficiency and quality, greater throughput, and increased safety … for a fraction of the cost of a new machine.

2. Take advantage of this OEM’s knowledge of equipment to mechanically or electrically rework any of your aged FENN machinery to get it back to running like new. Working with us guarantees that you are optimizing your old machinery with the quality and compatibility of correct parts that match that of the original machine.

Contact: sales@fenn-torin.com, www.fenn-torin.com

UPCOMING SECTOR UPDATES

KINECOIL DIVISION USA

What do you offer?

KineCoil Division of Kinefac® Corporation, a wire coiling technology leader—offers multi-axis single-point and two-point spring coiling equipment for a wide variety of industries. The KineCoiler multi-axis CNC coiling system excels for industrial, electronic and medical applications. We also offer turnkey engineering solutions for spring design, development, and prototyping using common spring wires as well as platinum alloys, tungsten, and other materials. The lines can cover wire diameters from .001 in. to .042 in.

What should readers know about your company?

1. With nearly 20 years of experience working with ultrafine wire, our engineers and technicians work with the customer in developing engineered solutions for fine wire coiling applications including spring design, tooling development and prototyping.

2. We offer the most advanced CNC control systems, with interactive HMI interface, process monitoring features and fully integrated automatic parts handling systems based on specific user needs.

3. KineCoil Division continues to support the range of Sleeper & Hartley spring coilers and torsion machines worldwide. We also still offer the reliable Model 7900 and 790 high-speed mechanical coilers for high volume production needs where CNC is not always necessary.

Contact: Rob Karlicek, Senior Customer Service Rep. kinecoil@kinefac.com, www.kinecoil.com

A close-up of a single-point KineCoil system in action.

SIMPLEX RAPID ITALY

A Simplex MT15 model.

What do you offer?

Simplex Rapid, based in Milan, Italy, and exclusively represented in the U.S. by NIMSCO, manufactures stateof-the-art, two-point spring coiling machines. These machines are used to produce a wide variety of compression, extension and torsion springs. We focus much of our effort developing new ideas and revolutionary solutions to improve the entire spring coiling process with specific focus on productivity and user-friendliness. We also offer manufacturers wire payoff machines from ultra-fine wire up to 14 mm, wire/tube straightening and cut machines for medical applications, spring tool grinders and torsion coiling machines.

What should readers know about your company?

1. Scope. We design, engineer and produce our machines in-house, utilizing the latest in production machinery. We also develop our machine software in-house. As our company has widened its market share over the years, it has also progressively increased the size of its factory in Milan, which presently covers an area of 25,000 sq m.

2. Global. Our company was founded in 1948, and 80% of our sales are exported around the world.

3. Representation. We have exceptional agents in many countries throughout the world, including NIMSCO in the U.S., which offers full sales, responsive service and spare parts.

Contact: Jerry Ashdown, president, NIMSCO j.ashdown@nimsco.com, www.nimsco.com

WAFIOS GERMANY/USA

What do you offer?

WAFIOS is a global leader in manufacturing machinery for wire, tube and formed parts, leveraging over a century of expertise to drive innovation in forming and bending technologies. Its machine types include spring coiling and forming, EV, spring end-grinding, wire bending and forming, tube bending and forming, wire straightening, cutting and end-working. The U.S. subsidiary in Connecticut provides local sales, spare part stock and support while its tech center in Illinois has machines for trials/demos.

What should readers know about your company?

1. In-house events. Our Mokena Tech Center hosts Spring & Grinding Day, where industry professionals can connect, exchange knowledge and explore the latest products/innovations. Open to our customers/ industry partners, participants present their advances and discuss trends. The MTC also does feasibility tests and validates production run rates for customer parts.

2. In-house training. During “Expert Days” our engineers lead hands-on training sessions to help operators and technicians enhance their skills to maximize productivity and maintain the highest standards of precision.

3. In-house education. We offer classes that provide valuable foundational and advanced knowledge as well as hands-on training. This focused training empowers operators to maximize efficiency and quality, directly benefiting productivity and product consistency.

Contact: Brian Davi, inside technical sales coordinator sales@wafios.us/wafios.de, www.wafios.us n

Have an entry for this section? Then go here to enter it!

The WAFIOS dual-purpose SNA model.

This section is part of an information agreement between Wire & Cable India (WCI), www.wirecable.in, and U.S.-based Wire Journal International.

Akshit Diviaj Gupta: Taking the Legacy Forward

Mr. 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 Whole-time 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).

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 55-plus 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.”

Wire & Cable India: What inspired you to join KEI Industries? Who has always been your source of inspiration?

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 worldclass 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 ever-evolving 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. 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 impactful branding on metro trains. Our commitment to staying at the forefront of technological innovation is evident in our new advertising campaigns, which introduce AI-enabled integration with customers and channel partners.

Our BTL branding activities strategically focus on high footfall areas, ensuring that KEI remains top-ofmind 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 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 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 decision-making.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

STL, 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.

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.

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.

STL’s optical connectivity products enhance fiber connectivity to the premise level with scalable, easy-to-install 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:

• OptoBlaze, Multiport Service Terminal, and OptoBolt pre-connectorized drop cables – Already

deployed by US providers like Lumos Networks and Archtop Fiber. They enhance network modularity, reduce installation time, and lower connection costs.

• 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.

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

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.

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.

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, 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 India’s renewable energy ambitions.

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

The 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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

State-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.

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.

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.

According to the Power Grid MD, as the projects become older, the earnings from transmission projects go down and the company has to keep commissioning new projects to have higher revenue growths.

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.

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

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

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

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, 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.

WCI: Please tell us more about your fibre optic cables in terms of performance, the state-of-the-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,

Orient 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 high-quality 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.

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

stranding and sheathing. We have the latest machines to manufacture high accuracy cables through these processes, which are 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 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 energyefficient manufacturing processes, LED lighting and renewable energy sources, zero-waste-to-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 yourself in 2024-25?

VN: The Indian optic fibre cable market is poised for significant growth, driven by increasing demand for high-speed 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.

India Needs Annual Investments of INR 3 Trillion 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.

India 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 large-scale 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.

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 two ICRA experts further outlined the growth trajectory 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 three-wheelers 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.

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. n

PATENT REPORT

recently approved U.S. patents for wire and cable

(Continued from p. 23)

Insulated wire

U.S. Patent No.: 12,100,532

Patent date: Sept. 24, 2024 Filed: Nov. 22, 2021

Assignees: Proterial, Ltd., Japan

Inventors Takami Ushiwata, Hajime Nishi, Ikumi Ando, Yuki Honda

In an insulated wire including a conductor formed into a long shape and an insulation film formed by stacking at least one insulating layer covering a circumference of the conductor, the insulating layer includes a porous region and a resin region. The porous region is formed of a resin and multiple voids, and the resin region is formed of the resin. In the insulating layer, a boundary surface is not provided between a first boundary surface located on a radially inner side and a second boundary surface located on a radially outer side, and the porous region and the resin region are arranged in this order from the first boundary surface toward the second boundary surface.

Connection structure for superconducting layer, superconducting wire, superconducting coil, and superconducting device

U.S. Patent No.: 12,100,531

Patent date: Sept. 24, 2024 Filed: Sept. 2, 2022

Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Japan

Inventors Yasushi Hatton, Tornoko Eguchi, Masaya Hagiwara, Keiko Albessard

A connection structure for a superconducting layer according to an embodiment includes a first superconducting layer, a second superconducting layer, and a connection layer between the first superconducting layer and the second superconducting layer, the connection layer including crystal particles containing a rare earth element, barium, copper, and oxygen, the crystal particles having a major diameter distribution including a trimodal distribution. The trimodal distribution has first, second, and third distributions in which major diameter become small in this order. The aspect ratios of the crystal particles included in the first distribution and the second distribution include a bimodal distribution. The median value of the major diameters of the crystal particles included in the distribution on a higher aspect ratio side in the bimodal distribution is greater than the median value of the major diameters of the crystal particles included in the distribution on a lower aspect ratio side.

Composite cable seal

U.S. Patent No.: 12,095,244

Patent date: Sept. 19, 2024 Filed: Sept. 24, 2020

Assignees: Commscope Technologies LLC, USA Inventors Kristof Vastmans, Jin Zavrel

A composite cable seal includes a frame material and a sealing material. The frame material can be configured to control positioning of the sealing material, and to prevent the sealing material from being over-compressed. The sealing material can be configured to provide effective sealing at a cable port and to provide effective sealing with respect to the enclosure (e.g., at a triple point of the enclosure).

Wire stripping machine

U.S. Patent No.: 12,095,241

Patent date: Sept. 19, 2024 Filed: April 17, 2024

Assignees/Inventor: Alexander Yebo Chen, USA

A wire stripping machine includes a frame, a first shaft, a second shaft, and an adjustment component. The adjustment component includes a slider that supports the second shaft member and a positioning unit. The slider is supported on positioning unit by elastic members. Each adjusting member can be adjusted independently. When adjusting the adjusting member and/or the positioning unit, the distance between the positioning unit and the slider can be changed. By adjusting the adjusting member and/ or the positioning unit, the specified pressure between the annular groove and the annular blade near either end of the wire inlet or outlet side of the second shaft member can be changed. The wire stripping machine with this configuration can improve the quality of wire stripping and reduce the loss of the blade on the basis of ensuring the wire stripping efficiency.

Covered electric wire and wire harness

U.S. Patent No.: 12,094,628

Patent date: Sept. 19, 2024 Filed: March 30, 2021

Assignees: Autonetworks Technologies, Ltd., Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd., Sumitomo Electric Industries, Japan

Inventors Fumitoshi Imasato, Toyoki Furukawa Kyoma Sahashi

A covered electric wire contains a conductor and an insulation covering which covers an outer surface of the conductor. The covered electric wire has a flat portion where a cross section of the conductor intersecting an axial direction of the covered electric wire has a flat shape which has a larger length in a width direction. The insulation covering contains, in the cross section of the flat portion, plane regions which contains, at the surface thereof: a width-directional region along the width direction; and a height-directional region intersecting the width direction. The insulation covering contains a region having a rounded shape having a radius at the junction between the width-directional region and the height-directional region, and the covered electric wire satisfies a relationship of R>t between the radius R and a thickness t of the insulation covering at the plane region. The wire harness contains the covered electric wire.

Steel wire and spring

U.S. Patent No.: 12,091,734

Patent date: Sept. 19, 2024 Filed: April 7, 2020

Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Japan

Inventors Tetsuya Nakajima, et al.

A steel wire is formed of a steel containing: not less than 0.6 mass % and not more than 0.7 mass % carbon, not less than 1.2 mass % and not more than 2.1 mass % silicon, not less than 0.2 mass % and not more than 0.6 mass % manganese, not less than 1.4 mass % and not more than 2 mass % chromium, and not less than 0.15 mass % and not more than 0.3 mass % vanadium, with the balance being iron and unavoidable impurities. The steel includes a matrix made up of tempered martensite, and a non-metallic inclusion present in the matrix. When ?area of the non-metallic inclusion is represented as H.sub.1 and ?area of a region including both the non-metallic inclusion and a decreased-hardness portion is represented as H.sub.2, a ratio of H.sub.2 to H.sub.1, or, H.sub.2/H.sub.1 is at least 1 and less than 1.3.

System for the extraction of energy from the electric field of power cables

U.S. Patent No.: 12,088,109

Patent date: Sept. 10, 2024 Filed: Oct. 27, 2021

Assignee: Not listed, Chile

Inventors Borja Rodriguez, Mariano Gomez

Systems for extracting electrical energy in power cables, from the electric field, without making electrical contact with the main conductors of the cable, which comprises a power cable and an extraction device of energy from the electric field, which captures the electric field inside the power cable, with alternating or direct voltage. Devices for extracting energy from the electric field. Manufacturing methods of the energy extraction system in power cables

from the electric field. Manufacturing methods of the energy extraction device.

Autonomous cable lasher comprising lashing wire dispensers that apply opposed radial force components

U.S. Patent No.: 12,087,724

Patent date: Sept. 10, 2024 Filed: March 9, 2021

Assignee: Electro Saguenay, Canada

Inventor: Guillaume Bouchard

The cable lasher comprises an autonomous carriage for moving along cables to be attached to each other, a low mass lashing apparatus rotatably mounted to the carriage and at least two lashing wire dispensers carried by the lashing apparatus that each dispense a lashing wire about the cables in a helical winding pattern as the cable lasher moves along a longitudinal axis and the lashing apparatus rotates to attach the cables to each other. The cable lasher also comprises a channel for receiving the cables, about which the carriage and the lashing apparatus are disposed and extending along the longitudinal axis, a lashing apparatus actuator carried by the frame that rotates the lashing apparatus when the cable lasher moves along the longitudinal axis, and an onboard power source carried by said carriage for powering the advance of the carriage and the rotation of the lashing apparatus. The lashing apparatus actuator actuates the lashing apparatus frame directly without acting on the at least two lashing wire dispensers. The at least two wire lashing wire dispensers are disposed about the longitudinal axis in such a way to have the lashing wires dispensed thereby apply a radial resultant force component on the carriage through the lashing apparatus that is less than each of the individual radial force components applied by the two lashing wires.

Palladium-coated copper bonding wire and method for manufacturing same

U.S. Patent No.: 12,087,724

Patent date: Sept. 10, 2024 Filed: May 24, 2021

Assignee: Tanaka Denshi Kogyo K. K., Japan

Inventors: Hiroyuki Amano, Yuki Antoku, Takeshi Kuwahara

There is provided a palladium-coated copper bonding wire that does not cause a shrinkage cavity during first bonding, has high bonding reliability, and is capable of maintaining excellent bonding reliability for a long period of time even in high-temperature and high-humidity environments. A palladium-coated copper bonding wire in which a concentration of palladium is 1.0 mass % or more and 4.0 mass % or less relative to the total of copper, palladium, and a sulfur group element, a total concentration of the sulfur group element is 50 mass ppm or less, and a concentration of sulfur is 5 mass ppm or more and 12 mass ppm or less, a concentration of selenium is 5 mass ppm or

more and 20 mass ppm or less, or a concentration of tellurium is 15 mass ppm or more and 50 mass ppm or less, and the palladium-coated copper bonding wire including a palladium-concentrated region with the average concentration of palladium of 6.5 atom % or more and 30.0 atom % or less relative to the total of copper and palladium within a range from a surface of a tip portion of a free air ball formed at a tip of the wire to 5.0 nm or more and 100.0 nm or less.

Automotive communications cable

U.S. Patent No.: 12,087,471

Patent date: Sept. 10, 2024 Filed: Aug. 18, 2022

Assignee: Daikin America Inc., USA

Inventor: Daniel Kennefick

A communications cable includes a pair of twisted pair of wires, each coated with a fluoropolymer insulator. The fluoropolymer insulators each independently contain at least 95% w/w fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP). The twisted pair of wires is configured to carry a differential signal, such as a differential data signal and/or a differential power signal.

Coating a working wire for a continuous biological sensor

U.S. Patent No.: 12,087,469

Patent date: Sept. 10, 2024 Filed: April 14, 2022

Assignee: None listed, inventors all USA

Inventors: Robert Boock, Huashi Zhang, Wei Guy

Methods for coating a working wire for a continuous biological sensor include providing a plurality of wires in a fixture and dipping the plurality of wires into a coating solution according to parameters for a dipping process. A plurality of diameters is measured along a length of at least two coated wires of the plurality of wires in the fixture, using an automated measurement system, as in an in-line process. A controller communicates with the automated measurement system to determine a thickness difference, the thickness difference being a difference between a thickness setpoint and an aggregate criteria for the plurality of diameters.

Superconducting wire, superconducting coil using same, and MRI

U.S. Patent No.: 12,087,467

Patent date: Sept. 10, 2024 Filed: Sept. 17, 2019

Assignee: Hitachi Ltd., Japan

Inventors: HidekiTanaka, Takaaki Suzuki, Motomune Kodama, Manabu Aoki

The present invention addresses a problem of providing an MgB2 wire material having a small reversible bending radius, a superconducting coil using the same, and an MRI without lowering a critical current value and a critical

current density of the MgB2 wire material to an extreme. To solve the problem, provided are a superconducting wire having a plurality of MgB2 strands and a first base metal, a superconducting coil using the same, and an MRI, the superconducting wire being characterized in that in a cross section orthogonal to a wire longitudinal direction, a center point of an area surrounded by the plurality of MgB2 strands and a center axis of a cross section of the superconducting wire are disposed in separated positions.

Electrical cable

U.S. Patent No.: 12,087,465

Patent date: Sept. 10, 2024 Filed: April 15, 2019

Assignee: TE Connectivity Solutions, Germany

Inventors: Craig Hornung, Justin Pickel

An electrical cable includes a conductor assembly having a first conductor, a second conductor and an insulator surrounding the first conductor and the second conductor. The insulator has an outer surface having an RMS roughness of less than 1.0 micrometers. A cable shield provides electrical shielding for the first and second conductors and has a metallized conductive layer on the outer surface of the insulator. A method of manufacturing an electrical cable includes feeding a first conductor and a second conductor to a core extruder, extruding an insulator around the first and second conductors at the core extruder, heating an outer surface of the insulator to lower a roughness profile of the outer surface, and directly apply a conductive layer to the outer surface of the insulator.

Continuously transposed cable with an integrated sensing device

U.S. Patent No.: 12,085,453

Patent date: Sept. 10, 2024 Filed: April 30, 2019

Assignee: Hitachi Energy Ltd., Japan

Inventors: Gianluca Bustreo, Roberto Zannol, Paolo Pavanello

A continuously transposed cable CTC, extending according to a longitudinal development direction (L) and having two opposite longitudinal ends, includes a plurality of strands arranged to form at least a first and a second adjacent stack, each extending along the longitudinal development direction (L), wherein said at least first and second stacks form a longitudinal interface. The CTC cable (1) further includes one or more optical fibers positioned at the interface between the first and the second stacks. A winding of an electromagnetic induction device, such as a transformer, can be obtained by winding said CTC cable. n

Detecting Electromagnetic Disturbances on Transmission Lines Using Time Reversal

Antonella Ragusa, Hugh Sasse, Alistair Duffy

De Montfort University School of Engineering and Sustainable Development Leicester- United Kingdom

+44 (0) 116 207 8593 - hgs@dmu.ac.uk

+44 (0)116 257 7056 - apd@dmu.ac.uk antonella.ragusa@cnr.it - antonella.ragusa@dmu.ac.uk

Abstract

Transmission lines can suffer a variety of electromagnetic disturbances. These can range from intentional interference, due to malicious intent, through to the effects of lightning strikes or partial discharge. Given a high-fidelity model of the transmission line, it is possible to take measurement data and ‘run time backwards’ to identify the source of the disturbance. This paper reviews the theory and implementation of electromagnetic time reversal, provides some examples from the literature, and illustrates its operation with current research to identify the source of a partial discharge event on Medium and High Voltage cables.

Keywords: numerical modelling, Transmission Line Matrix (TLM) method, electromagnetic time reversal (EMTR), partial discharge on-line location; power cables; powerline.

1. Introduction

Power transmission and distribution networks are frequently subject to a range of unexpected electromagnetic disturbances arising from both natural and man-made disturbances. Natural disturbances are due to lightning strikes, faults induced by weather conditions, such as ice, falling trees, storms, geomagnetic effects, contact by flying objects or animals, and man-made disturbances are due to switching operations of networks components and to acts of sabotage such as conducted intentional electromagnetic interference (IEMI). These events cause diverse effects on power supply quality and reliability, ranging from voltage sags, damage to sensitive loads, insulation deterioration, supply interruption and also blackouts.

The on-line aggressive environment accelerates cable insulation aging producing defects on power cables [1]. The failure of cable insulation can have severe social and economic consequences and statistics indicate that more than 85% of equipment failures are related to insulation failure, as shown in Fig. 1[2]. Therefore, the adoption of on-line diagnostic methods that can locate insulation degradation is the most effective solution for condition monitoring of networks to prevent faults and interruption of supply.

Insulation degradation is often caused by partial discharge (PD) events. PD is “a localized electrical discharge that only partially bridges the insulation between conductors” [3] and it starts in discontinuities or defects of the insulation system. For this reason, PD

is widely regarded as one of the best ‘early warning’ indicators of insulation degradation [4] and the on-line PD location as the most suitable monitoring method of network integrity assessment. On-line PD localization is, then, a desired feature in modern network protection schemes being a cost-effective tool to enhance networks resilience. The PD location problem in power cables has been a topic widely investigated in the literature. Most on-line location methods are reflectometry or traveling wave-based techniques [1][5][6][7], based on the principle that a PD event produce electromagnetic waves that travel in either direction towards the cable ends. The incident wave, and the reflected wave from the other cable end, are measured at one cable end and the delay between these pulses allows one to locate the PD source. Due to attenuation and dispersion phenomena that affect the localization accuracy, time domain reflectometry (TDR) methods can only be used for short cables. To solve this problem, multi-end measurement methods, i.e. the time of arrival (ToA) methods [8], are used, but their implementation is difficult due to the complexity in the synchronization procedure, often realized using laborious global position systems (GPS). Despite the high performance of existing on-line reflectometry-based PD location methods, their accuracy is still affected by the following factors:

Figure 1. Percentage of insulation failure[2].

1. Assessment of the number of observation points versus the number of possible multiple PD location solutions for long cables and for complex and branched networks.

2. Requirement of a precise time recording for methods that require multiple synchronized measurements.

3. Loss of GPS signal impacting the location accuracy.

4. Requirement of large bandwidth measurement systems with high sensitivity and high resolution and low internal noise.

5. De-noising the PD signal.

Recently, electromagnetic time reversal (EMTR) theory has been successfully applied in the field of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), specifically in power systems, with the development of technologies in electromagnetic disturbance source-location identification with significantly improved performance compared to classical approaches [9].

In this paper a review of the theory and implementation of electromagnetic time reversal is given from the literature and some results of the research under development at De Montfort University, Leicester, UK, to identify the source of partial discharge events on Medium and High Voltage cables using EMTR theory are presented.

2. Electromagnetic Time Reversal to locate sources of Electromagnetic Disturbances

Electromagnetic time reversal methods to locate the sources of electromagnetic disturbances are based on the Maxwell’s equations invariance under time reversal [9].

Mathematically, time reversal implies making the substitution t→−t. Considering Maxwell’s equations in a vacuum:

equations and the spatial correlation property of the time-reversal theory to refocus the time reversed back-propagated electromagnetic waves into the original disturbance location. In more detail, when the electromagnetic transient disturbance is time reversed and back injected into the original system, it refocuses back to the location of its source[9]. For example, Figure 2, at the top, shows a source that emits electromagnetic impulsive waves in free space and three sensors that record the cylindrical wave generated by the source in three points in the space. Time reversing the recorded waves and reemitting them back into the free space, a maximum value of the field can be observed, in the free space, at the location of the source, as shown in figure 2, at the bottom. The time reversed waveforms will give, in fact, the maximum contribution to the total field in the location of the source where they are in phase.

Based on this theory, EMTR theory has been used in locating the sources of electromagnetic disturbances in the field of power systems and in particular, methods to locate lightning strikes, lightningoriginated ashovers [10] and faults [10] (i.e. open and short circuits that stop signals from propagating further along a cable) in transmission and distribution networks.

For the on-line location of faults in power networks, the EMTRbased methods, compared with the existing techniques, have presented the following advantages [9]:

1. Applicability to inhomogeneous and complex networks.

2. Robustness against the presence of noise and limited observation time window.

3. Use of a single observation point.

While for the EMTR-based method designed to locate lightning interference, it has been observed that:

1. it can be considered a more general case compared to ToA methods.

where E and H are the electric and magnetic field, ρ the charge density, J the electric current density, ε and μ the electric permittivity and magnetic permeability, applying a time-reversal transformation, the following equations are obtained:

As the equations show, expressions (2) are identical to equations (1), except that magnetic field and current density have changed sign. Then, to make Maxwell’s equations invariant under time reversal, the magnetic field and the electrical current density should change sign as well [9]:

EMTR methods in electromagnetic disturbances source-location identification take advantage of the time reversibility of wave

[9].

Figure 2. Time reversed waveforms

2. it is able to give information about the wave shape of the lightning interference, in addition to the propagation time.

The described characteristics of EMTR-based techniques, observed in the previous applications, make it a good method to solve all the factors affecting the accuracy of the existing PD location methods.

3. EMTR-based method to locate Partial Discharge using a 1D TLM model

The design of a new method to locate PD source in power networks based on EMTR theory is under development by the authors [12]. A detailed description of the design procedure of the method is given in [12], here a brief description of the basic concept is recalled together with some results obtained in simulations that show the effectiveness of the method to locate PD sources in power cables.

The new method has been designed in simulation using the 1D Transmission Line Matrix (TLM) method to model the propagation of PD signal on power cables.

The propagation of a PD signal in a transmission line is described by the Telegrapher’s equations [13], that evaluate the voltage v(x,t), and current, i(x,t), waves on the line as functions of time t and distance x:

3 Equivalent circuit of a lossless transmission line.

differential equation-based method in time domain that discretizes the transmission line mesh in n segments, of length Δx, connected by nodes. A scheme of the 1D TLM transmission line is shown in Figure 5.a. The wave pulses are scattered in the nodes and propagate in the transmission lines, generating incident, VLin(k) and VRin(k), and reflected, VLrn(k) and VRrn(k), voltages. The voltage, Vn(k), and current, In(k), at time-step k, at the node n, of the line are given by [13]:

where L, C, R and G are, respectively, the series inductance, the shunt capacitance, the series resistance, and the shunt conductance per unit length of the line. For non-dissipative transmission line (lossless lines) the partial differential equations (1) becomes timeinvariant equations [9]. It means that voltage and current, v(x,t), and i(x,t), and their symmetric values in time, v(x,-t), and i(x,-t), are both solutions of the Telegrapher’s equations [9]. In this condition, the Telegrapher’s equations become invariant under time reversal, (t -t), by changing the sign of the current as follows [9]:

The mathematical change of the current sign, under time reversal theory, means that the charge speed is changed in sign. Fig. 3 shows the equivalent circuit of a lossless transmission line, characterized by a propagation speed, u, and a characteristic impedance, Z0 given by[13]:

For the purpose of illustration, a PD signal represented by a double exponential equation [12], shown in Figure 4, has been considered and its propagation is analyzed in the simple system shown in Figure 5.a, formed by an homogeneous HV cable connected to the impedances, Z1 and Z2 at its ends.

The TLM method has been used to evaluate the voltage and current waves given by Telegrapher’s equations. TLM method is a

(5.1) (5.2)

When a PD event occurs, in a node, xPD, of the line, an electromagnetic disturbance is produced that propagates towards the cable ends, as schematized in Figure 5.a.

During the direct time (DT) simulation, at two observation points (OPs), shown in Figure 5.a, the signals, si(x, t), with i = 1, 2, generated by the PD event, are measured. The measured signals are time-inversed as follows:

with t’ =T - t (6)

where i=1, 2 and T is the observation time during which the signals are measured.

4 PD signal in a node of the line.

Fig.

Fig.

Fig. 5 Schematic representation of the line with a PD event at xPD location along the cable and two OPs at the cable ends, during the Direct Time simulation (a) and the Time reversal simulation (b).

Then, the time reversed signals are back injected in the line from the two OPs, as shown in Figure 5.b, where the model used for the time reversal TR simulation is shown. Several TR simulations are run, considering in each of them a guessed partial discharge location (GPDL), where a variation of the transversal impedance of the TLM node is realized in order to simulate the modified capacitive impedance, between the inner conductor of the cable and the external shield, due to the PD event that occurs inside the insulator. PD discharge events, in fact, occur in insulator defects characterized by a capacitance. In the well-known three capacitors model of PD events [14], this defect capacitance is short-circuited during the discharge event, so modifying the shunt capacitance of the line. A detailed description of the definition of the GPDL impedance and its representation in a 1D TLM model of the line is given in [12].

Finally, for each GPDL, the energy stored in the transversal capacitive impedance is evaluated. The GPDL characterized by the maximum value of the energy is the location PD source. The time reversed back-injected signals, in fact, will add up in phase at the real PD location.

To prove the effectiveness of the method some simulation results are here shown.

The proposed simulations have been performed considering a transmission line formed of a homogeneous cable of length l=250m, connected to the impedances Z1 and Z2 at its ends , with Z1=Z2=100 kΩ, representing the impedance of power transformers at high frequency. A 11-kV aluminum power cable has been considered with Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE) insulation and cross-sectional area of 150 mm2

Figure 6 shows the signals measured at the two OPs, during the DT simulation, when the PD source is 60 m far from the left end of the cable, and the time reversed signals. Figure 7 shows the normalized energy, evaluated with respect to the maximum energy in the GPDLs, in each GPDL during the TR simulations. As the

Fig. 6 PD signals measured at the two OPs in DT simulation with a PD source 60 m far from the left end of the cable and the Time Reversed signals.

figure shows, the maximum energy is obtained at GPDL=xPD=60m that is the location of PD source. Figure 8 shows the voltages, in the time domain, in three GPDLs of the line during the TR simulation, respectively, at 60m from the left end of the cable, that coincides with the PD source location, and at 20m and 200m from the left end of the cable. As the figure shows, the voltage signal is

Fig. 7 Normalized energy in several GPDL when PD source is 60 m from the left end of the cable.

8 Voltage at three GPDLs and the normalized energy in several GPDLs in the TR simulation

Fig. 9 Time reversed back-injected signals along the line, back to t = 0.

maximum in GPDL coincident with the PD source location, as expected. While, Figure 9 shows the signal at the GPDL=60m along the line at the time t’=T, where it is clear that the two timereversed back injected signals, s1(x, t) and s2(x, t) add up in phase, at the time t =T that means t=0, then going back in time at the time it had been generated.

Figures 10-12 show the normalized energy evaluated in the GPDLs when the PD source is, respectively, 20m, 100m and 200m

Fig. 10 Normalized energy in several GPDL when PD source is 20 m from the left end of the cable.

Fig. 11 Normalized energy in several GPDL when PD source is 100 m from the left end of the cable.

Fig. 12 Normalized energy in several GPDL when PD source is 200 m from the left end of the cable.

Fig.

from the left end of the cable.As the figures show the method is able to locate exactly the source of PD event along the cable. In [12], the authorshaveproved that the method works also using only one observation point,then measuring the signal generated by PD event only at one cable end.

4.Conclusion

This paper deals withthe theory of electromagnetic time reversal (EMTR) anddescribes its implementation in locating electromagnetic disturbance source as defined in the literature. Then, the use of EMTRtheory to locate partial discharge (PD) source in medium and high voltage power networks is discussed. The first results of a research activity,under development,with the aim to design a EMTR-based method to locate PDsources in power networks, are illustrated. In particular, the simulation results that show the effectiveness ofthe EMTR-based method to locate PD sources in homogenous HV XLPE cablesusing two observation point (OPs) are given and described.The ability ofthe method to locate PD using only one observation point has been also verified by the authors and new research activities are under development. More in detail, the validationof the method in complex network topologies (inhomogeneous cables and branched networks) is under study together with the analysis of the effectiveness of the EMTR-based method to locate multiple PDsources in power networks.

5.Acknowledgments

This project has received funding from theEuropean Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant agreement No 838681

6.References

[1]F. Auzanneau, “Wire Troubleshooting and diagnosis: Review and perspectives” - Progress in Electromagnetics Research B, Vol. 49, 2013. Pgs. 253-279.

[2]S.Refaat,M.Sham –“A Review of Partial Discharge Detection, Diagnosis Techniques in High Voltage Power Cables” - IEEE Int. Conf. on Comp.Pow. Elect.and Power Eng., 2018.

[3]EN 60270 -High-voltage test techniques -Partial discharge measurements (IEC 60270:2000) – 2001.

[4]Z.Du,P.K.Willett, M.S.Mashikian –“Performance Limits of PD Location Based on Time-domain Reflectometry” - IEEE Trans. on Dielec. and Elect. Insul.Vol.4, No.2, April 1997.

[5]M.S.Mashikian,R.Bansal,R.B.Northrop –“Location and Characterization of Partial Discharge sites in Shielded Power cables” - IEEE Trans. on Pow. Del.,Vol.5,No.2,April 1990.

[6]Y.Zhou, Y.Qin, P.Chappell –“Cost-Effective On-Line Partial Discharge Measurements for Cables” - IEEE Electrical Insulation Mag,Vol. 22,No. 2 Mar-Apr 2006. Pgs.31-38.

[7]F. P. Mohamed, W. H. Siew, J. J. Soraghan, S. M. Strachan“Partial Discharge Location in Power Cables using a Double Ended Method Based on Time Triggering with GPS”- IEEE Trans. on Dielec. & Elect. Insul., Vol. 20, No. 6; Dec.2013.

[8]C.C.Yii, M.N.K.H.Rohani, M. Isa S. I. S. Hassan- “Multiend PD Location Algorithm using Segmented Correlation and Trimmed Mean Data Filtering Techniques for MV Underground Cable”- IEEE Trans. on Dielec. andElect. Insul. Vol. 24, No. 1,Feb.2017. Pgs. 92-98.

[9]F. Rachidi, M. Rubinstein, M. Paolone, “Electromagnetic Time Reversal – Application to Electromagnetic Compatibility and Power System” - John Wiley & Sons Ltd, 2017.

[10]G. Lugrin, N. Mora, F. Rachidi, M. Rubinstein, G. Diendorfer, "On the Location of Lightning Discharges Using Time Reversal of Electromagnetic Fields", IEEE Trans. on EMC, Vol. 56, No. 1, pp. 149-158, 2014.

[11]S.Y. He, Y.Z. Xie, Z.Wang, F.Rachidi, B.Y. Liu, Q Li, X. Kong- “Norm Criteria in the Electromagnetic Time Reversal Technique for Fault Location in Transmission Lines“- IEEE Trans. on EMC, Vol. 60, No. 5, Oct. 2018. Pgs. 1240–1248.

[12]A. Ragusa, H. Sasse, A. Duffy, F. Rachidi, M. Rubinstein –“Electromagnetic Time Reversal Method to Locate Partial Discharges in Power Networks using 1D TLM modelling”–submitted to IEEE Letters on Electromagnetic Compatibility Practice and Applications, Aug. 2020.

[13]C. Christopoulos, The transmission-line modeling method –TLM, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, 1995.

[14] N. Kartalovic et al “An Advanced Model of Partial Discharge in Electrical Insulation”, Facta Univeritatis, Ser.: Elec. En Vol. 24, no. 1, pp. 43-57, Apr.2011.

Antonella Ragusa, antonella.ragusa@cnr.it, received the Masterand Ph.D. degrees in Electrical Engineering fromthe University of Palermo, Italy, in 2001 and 2006, respectively. In 2007, she worked at FIAT. She has been a permanent researcher atthe Institute of Marine Engineering (INM)ofNational Research Council(CNR)of Italy, Palermosince 2008. Currently, she is a Marie Curie Researcher Fellow (MSCA-IF) at De Montfort University of Leicester, UK.Her research interests includeelectromagnetic compatibility, computational electromagneticsand smartgrids.

Hugh G. Sasse, hgs@dmu.ac.uk,received the B.Sc. (Hons) degree in electronic engineering from the University of York, York, U.K., in 1985, and has received his PhD. degree in 2010 from De Montfort University, Leicester, U.K; his research is on optimizationof physical layer components for communications systems at De Montfort University.

Alistair Duffy, apd@dmu.ac.uk, is a professor of Electromagnetics at De Montfort University (DMU), Leicester, UK. He received his BEng (Hons) and MEng degrees in 1988 and 1989, respectively, from University College, Cardiff, and University of Wales. He read for his PhD with professors Christopoulos and Benson at Nottingham University, graduating in 1993. He also holds an MBA from the Open University, UK, graduating in2004. He is a Fellow of the IEEE. He has published approximately 200 papers, mostly on his research interests of validation of computational electromagnetics; physical layer components, particularly communications cabling, and electromagnetic compatibility testing.

Automatic Induction Roller Type Cable Bulge Monitoring Device

Huiliang Tan,Liping Shi, Yuqun Ma,Ozéias Dias Menezes,Qian Luo,Caixia Sun Hengtong GroupCo.,Ltd. Suzhou,Jiangsu,P.R.China

tanhl@htgd.com.cn

Abstract:

It is difficult to accurately locate the casing block in the plasticization process of optical cable production. This paper proposes a new type of automatic cable bulge monitoring device that can effectively determine the position of the block in time.

Keywords: Secondary coatingprocess; Bulge; Automatic monitoring

1.Introduction

With the expansion of the communication network coverage area, the demand for trunk optical cables has shown an upward trend year by year. The increase in market demand for optical cables has made the production tasks of optical cable manufacturers always saturated. The continuous production of each process will inevitably increase the probability that unstable factors in the production process will cause hidden quality hazards. The tight production rhythm requires us to resolve the hidden quality hazards left over from each process as soon as possible.

The lumps produced in the production process of the coating process are typical quality problems caused by the continuous production of optical cables. The coating production line is produced at high speed, due to the fast production speed, and the loose tube is used in the blow dryer after passing the water tank. If there are lumps on the surface of the loose tube, it is difficult to make a judgment in the first time with the inspection equipment (infrared diameter gauge) that comes with the equipment. The physical card holder in the past is a simple U-shaped slot, and the width of its U-shaped opening is the maximum diameterrequired by the loose tube being produced. Once there is a block on the surface of the loose tube, the block will move to the card. The package device, under the action of the reaction force of the package device to the package block, the package device directly clamps the loose tube. In fact, after repairing the loose tube surface block, it can continue to be released to the next process for production without cutting. Therefore, the disadvantages of this physical card packer are obvious. More seriously, the tensile strength of the optical fiber is 400Kg/mm2, which surpasses almost all known metals. Therefore, when the loose tube is under tension, the tensile strength of the optical fiber far exceeds the strength of the U-groove baffle of the card packer and the tensile strength of the six M4 screws on the baffle. Therefore, in actual production, it is often not a package. The block was jammed by the card packer, but the loose tube pulled the screw off or the baffle was bent and deformed, causing the card packer to fly out.

2.Institutional Composition

Schematic diagram of the mechanism of the plastic bag block induction device

Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the new-type plastic package block induction device, and Figure 2 is its 3D model diagram. The working part of the plastic package block sensing device consists of a pair of " "-shaped sensing levers, two springs respectively placed at the end of the sensing lever, and proximity switches on both sides of the sensing lever. The above-mentioned components are respectively placed on two platforms, and below the platform is a horizontal guide rail.

The two induction levers are inlaid with craft rollers. The three semi-circular grooves with different radii cut out on the surface of the craft roller are the maximum allowable dimensions of the loose tube of three specifications. During work, the loose tube passes through the groove of the process roller according to the specifications. Once the bale appears, the bale is in contact with the process wheel, so that the induction levers on the left and right sides rotate slightly with their respective central fulcrums as the axial casing movement direction. At the same time, the proximity switch contacting the ends of the left and right sensing levers loses continuous pulses, thereby inputting the position of the bale into the

Figure 1

Figure 2Plastic block induction device 3D model

equipment system. The springs on the left and right sides generate tension when the bale reaches the craft wheel. At the moment when the bale leaves the craft wheel, the spring will make the left and right sensing levers return to their original positions under the action of tension.Through the above actions of the mechanism, the design requirements of having a block, recording its position and not jamming the casing can be met.

The plastic covering process is interspersed with multiple specifications for continuous production, and it is required that the plastic packaging block induction device should be able to meet the convenient switching detection specifications. The lower part of the plastic bag block induction device is equipped with a screw rod. The screw rod is equipped with a nut with a stepped surface. The height between the steps on the stepped surface is the distance between the process roller grooves. The bearing on the stepped surface is long The rod is connected to the lower part of the horizontal guide rail, and as the screw handle is rotated, the bearing moves up and down on the step surface. The left and right sides of the positive and negative threaded screws at the front end of the device are respectively connected with two platforms on which the working part is erected. Rotating the handles of the positive and negative threaded screws can realize the reverse movement of the two platforms. Adjusting these two mechanisms can achieve switchingdetection specifications.

In the process of continuous production of multiple specifications of loose tube, if the specifications of the produced tube are switched, the positive and negative threaded screws need to be screwed to make the two planes on theguideway open to a sufficient distance (the left and right parts of the process wheel) The distance is 10mm18mm). Twist the screw to move the stepped track, and the movement of the stepped track will drive the roller to move on the stepped steps to make the cuboid base and all the mechanisms assembled on the cuboid base move up and down along the groove pin pair. Finally, screw the positive and negative threaded screws to return the two planes of the guide rail to the original position, and the sleeve will be clamped in the corresponding process wheel groove (the distance between the two parts of the process wheel is 1mm, the purpose is to avoid both sides of the process wheel There is friction between the mandrels of the craft wheel, so that there is no mutual force between the plastic package block inductor and the casing to prevent the casing from being strangled). The above actions can be completed in the continuous production process, switching inspection specifications.

3.Mechanism operation analysis and design and selection of key components

3.1Mechanism motion analysis and proximity switch selection

According to actual investigations, whether it is a mass caused by excessive PBT or ointment, the actual diameter of the loose tube block is about 1mm larger than the loose tube diameter. The nominal outer diameters are 1.8mm, 2.0mm and 2.5mm. Take the casing as an example, the diameter of casing block is generally 2.8mm, 3.0mm and 3.5mm, and the size deviation of loose casing is ±0.05mm.

Use AUTOCAD to simulate the rotation range of the instantaneous induction lever centered on the fulcrum when the casing blocks of three specifications run to the groove of the process roller:

Proximity switch

In Figure 3, assuming that there is no block in the loose tube, the front section of the proximity switch is 1mm away from the sensing lever. Figure 4 shows that the distance between the inductive lever and the proximity switch is extended to 2.11mm under the action of a block in the 1.8mm loose tube. According to the results of AUTOCAD simulation, the occurrence of masses in the 2.0mm and 2.5mm loose tubes will increase the distance between the sensing lever and the proximity switch by 1.98mm and 1.99mm, respectively.

Based on the above conclusions, it is best to choose a proximity switch with a distance of 2mm, and manually adjust the proximity switch nut to make the distance between the proximity switch and the sensing lever 1.5mm. In this way, the distance between the sensing lever andthe proximity switch is increased by 0.5mm, and the proximity switch can send a signal. After receiving the signal, the host records the position of the block, so as to accurately locate the position of the loose tube block.

Table-1Proximity switch parameter table

Model PR12-2DN

Detection Distance2mm 10%

Standard Detection

Object 12x12x1mm(iron

Set Distance 0-1.4mm

Power Supply (Operating Voltage) 12-24VDC(1030VDC)

Current ConsumptionMax.10mA

Response Frequency 1.5kHz

Control Output 200mA

Weight 70g

Figure 3The state of the induction lever and proximity switch under normal conditions

Figure 41.8mm casing (packing block diameter 2.8mm)

Leverage pivot

Induction lever Proximity switch

Leverage pivot

Induction lever

3.2Mechanism stress analysis and spring selection

Under the action of the loose tube block, the force analysis of the mechanism is shown in Figure 5 (In the previous analysis, the rotation amplitude of the induction lever when the loose tube block of each specification moves to the process wheel, The rotation amplitude generated by the induction lever is the largest, so the selected model is the analysis of the force on the 1.8mm loose tube):

According to our company's plastic coating process, the auxiliary traction tension range is 8N-10N, and the maximum value is 10N as the driving force. As shown in Figure 4, when the bale moves to the craft wheel, the force of the bale acts on the center of the craft wheel. At this time, the force is the largest, which is half of the driving force, 5N. For the orthogonal decomposition of the driving force acting on the lever, set the angle between the side of the

spring side and the horizontal direction as tensile force F transmitted to the spring is:

F=5 Sin 1 Cos 2 Cos 3=0.192N

According to the previous mechanism analysis, the spring in this mechanism can be elongated by 2.1mm at most under the action of tensile force, that is, the displacement S is 2.1mm. Therefore, in the process of spring selection, it is only necessary to consider the assembly length L= On the basis of 25mm, whether the rated load of the spring after the spring is extended by 2.1mm is less than the tensile force of the mechanism on the spring. Check the sample software of Shanglong products, the ultra-light load spring ausl-d2L25 meets the above requirements.

The selection formula is as follows:

F> Pi+ K S =P

0.192>0.13+ 0.025 2.1 =0.1825N

Where:

Pi Initial Tension(N)

K Spring Constant (N/mm)

S Displacement(mm)

P Spring Load(N)

Check the sample software of Shanglong product, the initial tension Pi of the ultra-light load spring ausl-d2-L25 is 0.13N, and the spring constant K=0.025N/mm.

Table-2Spring parameter table

Model ausl-d2-L25

D2

L 25

Spring Constant N/Mm 0.025

Initial Tension N 0.13

Maximum Displacement Smax 22.8

Maximum Load N 0.69

Wire Diameter DMm 0.2

Figure 4Schematic diagram of ultra-light load spring ausl-d2-L25 parts

4.Conclusion

The new type of plastic covering block sensing device can be adapted to accurately record the position of the casing block in the continuous production state of the plastic covering production line, and does not damage the loose tube. The mechanism is simple and intuitive, and the operation is convenient, which can realize the requirement of quickly adjusting the outer diameter of the casing according to the production specifications. The process sheave can realize all-round sensing of the position of the casing block. Each spacing adjustment mechanism of the mechanism adopts screw pairs. The advantage of the self-locking type is that the mechanism is not easy to move and loose during normal work. Compared with the measurement method of optical instruments, the outer diameter detection of the plastic bag block sensor is mechanical. The force of the bag block on the mechanism directly triggers thesensor, which can respond immediately, and the cost is much less than that of optical instruments.

5.References

[1]Liu Xishan, Liu Wenguang, “Theory Of Machines And Mechanisms”,(2005)

[2]Li Xiangyang, “Optical Fiber Technology”, (2009)

[3]Wu Qian, Liu Gangyi, “The Key Process Index Of Optical Fiber Secondary Coating”,(2005)

6.Pictures of Authors

Huiliang Tan was born in Jiangsu Province. He graduated from Beijing Institute of Technology, majoring in software engineering. He has been working in optical fiber cable technology area since 2001.He is now the Presidentin Hengtong International Business Group.

Figure 3Overall force analysis diagram

Liping Shi was born in Jiangsu Province. He graduated from Southwest University of Science and Technology, majoring in electronic information engineering. He has been working in optical fiber cable technology area since 2001.He is now the General Manager in HT Cabos e Tecnologia LTDA.

Yuqun Ma was born in Heilongjiang Province. He graduated from Chengdu Universityof Technology, majoring in Materials Science and Engineering.He joined Hengtong in 2015.Heis now a Production ManagerinHT Cabos e Tecnologia LTDA.

Ozéias Dias Menezes was born in Brazil. He graduated from Federal University of ABC, majoring in Aerospace Engineering. He joined Hengtong in 2019. He is now Quality Coordinator in HT Cabos e Tecnologia LTDA.

Qian Luo was born in HunanProvince. He graduated from Huaihai Institute of Technology, majoring in financial management. He has been working in Hengtongsince 2015.He is now the financial manager in HT Cabos e Tecnologia LTDA.

Caixia Sun was born in Heilongjiang Province. She graduated from Harbin Normal University, majoring in Portuguese. She has been working in Hengtong since 2014.She is now the Commercial Manager in HT Cabos e Tecnologia LTDA.

IWCS organizes the Cable & Connectivity Industry Forum, a technology event with thousands of international attendees. This event facilitates the exchange of information about product, material and process innovation for cabling and connectivity solutions. IWCS publishes over 100 technical papers annually—all of which are archived to aid ongoing industry research and education. Committed to developing industry professionals and students, IWCS provides networking opportunities, awards annual scholarships, and hosts a professional development certificate program.

Learn more at IWCS.ORG

WAI MEMBERS seeking positions are entitled to free “Position Wanted” classified ads.

CLASSIFIED AD RATES: • $1.30 per word for WJI and on-line classifieds at wirenet.org (20-word minimum).

• Blind box numbers, add $25. • Boldface headlines, add $6 per line (up to 18 characters per line). Specify category.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

AA ENTERPRISE. México. Proveedores e soldadoras eléctricas y manuales; impresoras y discos; cilindros, bandas y anillos para recocedores, bobinas/ carretes de plástico y acero; carretes p/ enmalladoras; bandas para caterpillar; tapes; conos y anillos de cerámica y tungsteno p/estiradoras; maquinaria p/ producción; cabezas de extrusión, etc.ayala1953@gmail.com.

PERSONNEL SERVICES

“LET OUR SUCCESS BE YOUR SUCCESS” Wire Resources is the foremost recruiting firm in the Wire & Cable Industry. Since 1967 we have partnered with industry Manufacturers to secure the services of executives, managers, and thousands of key individual contributors. Contact: Peter Carino, pcarino@ wireresources.com or online at www.linkedin.com/in/petercarino1. Wire Resources Inc., PO Box 593, Riverside, CT 06878, tel. 203-6223000. www.wireresources.com.

WAI RESOURCES

FERROUS WIRE HANDBOOK. This 1,168 page, hard-cover, indexed publication is a definitive industry resource for ferrous wire, a reference tool for those in the steel wire or manufacturing, engineering or operations sectors. It includes 36 chapters that cover many of the equipment types, processes, and specialty applications of steel wire manufacturing. The book begins with a history of the steel industry and its evolution,

BLIND BOX INFO: Address Blind Box responses to: WJI, Box number (as it appears in print or on-line), 71 Bradley Road, Suite 9, Madison, CT 06443-2662 USA.

PAYMENT POLICY: All ads must be pre-paid.

DEADLINES: Copy is due a full month in advance. Contact: classified@wirenet.org for more details.

followed by details on: continuous casting; controlled rod cooling; rod defects; pickling and coating; mechanical descaling; deformation in cold drawing; wiredrawing theory, machinery and finishing equipment; lubrication; heat treatment; stress relief; annealing; oil tempering; patenting; corrosion; galvanizing; statistical process control; bridge rope and strand; nails, barbed wire, mechanical springs. The price is $235, $195 for WAI members. To buy, go to wirenet.org and click on The WAI Store.

WAI’S ELECTRICAL WIRE HANDBOOK, PART 3. The revised Electrical Wire Handbook has been divided into 3 handbooks: Part 1: Wire and Cable Production Materials, Part 2: Wire and Cable Production Processes, and Part 3: Types of Cables. The goal of the books is to provide basic but meaningful information to those people working in the wire and cable industry-especially those who are new to the field. The price is $45, $25 for WAI members. Buy at wirenet.org and click on The WAI Store.

THE SMALL SHOP. This book, 327 pages, by Gary Conner, the author of Lean Manufacturing for the Small Shop, describes Six Sigma and its use by smaller companies. Published by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, it shows the relationship between continuous improvement, lean, and quality, and focuses on implementation for operators, managers, and owners. It includes a supplementary CD-ROM.

The Official Publication of WAI - Interwire and Wire Expo -

Price, $95, $75 for WAI members, plus shipping. Buy at wirenet.org and click on The WAI Store. n

February

Reservation: January

Materials:

•

•

•

SALES REP & OFFICES

Shannon Timme ext. 126 | stimme@wirenet.org

Anna Bzowski ext. 119 | abzowski@wirenet.org North America

Europe

U.K., France, Italy, Spain, Holland, Belgium, Denmark, & Scandinavia

Anna Bzowski ext. 119 abzowski@wirenet.org

Wire Journal International

71 Bradley Road, Suite 9 Madison, CT 06443-2662 USA Tel: 203-453-2777 www.wirenet.org sales@wirenet.org

Germany, Austria, & Switzerland

Detlev Melcher

Media Service Int.

Tel: 49-8801-914682

Fax: 49-8801-914683 dmelcher@t-online.de