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sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
may 2014
IN T
HIS
ISSU
E
May 2014
www.crown.co.za
• Distribution boards, switches, sockets and protection • Energy efficiency • Lighting
11-13, 16-21 22-23 24-27
FEATURES
• Contractors’ Corner • Buyers’ Guide • People on the Move
REGULARS 2-10
14–15 28
THE National Regulator of Compul-sory Standards (NRCS) destroyed 290 000 non-compliant products worth R7,4-million at a special ‘de-struction function’ in Bon Accord, Pretoria on March 27.
The products were seized by NRCS inspectors during ‘market surveillance’ operations to ensure compliance with compulsory requirements.
A significant number of products was intercepted at South African ports of entry – including sea ports and inland ports – and confiscated because they were found to com-promise the safety of consumers with defects that could not be corrected.
Minister of Trade and Industries,
Minister of Trade and Industries, Dr Rob Davies.
Non-compliant products worth R7,4-m destroyed
THE Competition Commission has referred to the Competition Tribunal its findings of cartel conduct against suppliers of power cables: Alvern Cables, South Ocean Electric Wire Company (SOEW), Tulisa Cables, and Aberdare Cables.
The Commissioner initiated this investigation in March 2010 and on 6 May 2010 the Commission conducted a ‘search and seizure operation’ against the firms for possible price fixing and market allocation contraven-tions.
The Commission found that “between 2001 to at least 2010, the firms “directly or indirectly fixed the selling prices of power cables to wholesal-ers, distributors and original equipment manufacturers”. Amongst the af-fected customers are the Bidvest Group (Voltex Group); ARB Holdings Ltd; Universal Cables (Pty) Ltd; Trinity Cables CC; Powermac; Paragons; South Atlantic Cables; and Electrobase.
Furthermore, the Competition Commission found that “from about 2001 to at least the end of 2007, Aberdare agreed, with SOEW and Alvern respectively, to divide markets by allocating customers and that the firms would have regular meetings and telephone conversations to discuss power cable price adjustments… as and when there was a significant change in prices of input materials”.
The Commission has asked the Tribunal to impose an administrative
Competition Commission asks tribunal to impose penalties on cable companies
penalty of 10% of annual turnover on each of the firms involved, except for Aberdare, which has been granted conditional leniency.
Acting commissioner Tembinkosi Bonakele says, “As a regulatory body with a powerful mandate … we have a responsibility to ensure that the market place is free of anti-competitive behaviour including collusion …” He adds that the Commission is “grateful to those who co-operate” and encouraged citizens to provide the Commission with information that would help to “uproot unacceptable anti-competitive practices”.
Alvern Cables issued a statement confirming that the Competition Com-mission had launched an investigation into certain alleged prohibited practices in the cable industry against Alvern Cables and three other cable manufacturers and that the matter has now been referred to the Tribunal. The statement concludes: “Alvern Cables is co-operating fully with the Competition Commission and will continue to do so.”
Aberdare Cables issued a statement confirming that it has been granted “conditional immunity against prosecution before the Competition Tribunal”. The statement continues: “Since the Commission commenced its investigation Aberdare Cables’ management has co-operated fully with the Commission in terms of their investigations and has also undertaken its own internal review.
“Given that Aberdare Cables continues to fully comply with the Com-mission’s requirements as set out in the conditional immunity agreement, Aberdare Cables does not anticipate incurring any penalties as prescribed in the Competition Act.”
The statement concludes that “Aberdare Cables will continue to assist the Commission with its investigations into these alleged prohibited practices within the power cable market and with any resultant referrals that may take place. Aberdare Cables and the Altron Group support the provisions of the Competition Act and have undertaken, and continue to take, significant measures to ensure that all employees are aware of the requirements of the law.”
Dr Rob Davies, said that non-compliant products are destroyed to protect consumers from unsafe, illegal products and also to protect South African producers from “unfair competition”.
The destruction function was the culmination of recent market surveillance inspections, which included sampling and sending products to accredited laboratories for testing in order to ascertain their safety. Products were also destroyed because suppliers, manufacturers or importers failed to produce Letters of Authority (LOA) – permits issued by the NRCS to allow the sale of regulated products in South Africa.
Enquiries: (012) 482-8870
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
may 2014
contractors’ corner C3
IT was with much sadness that the electrical industry learnt of the passing of Peter Smuts, who dedicated 40 years of his life to the industry. During December 2013, Peter was diagnosed with an uncommon form of bile duct cancer and passed away on 21 March 2014.
Peter’s career started when he joined the South African Post Office as an electrical apprentice. In 1989, he joined the Durbanville Municipality as the chief installa-tion inspector and later moved to the Parow Municipality where he was a member of the planning department.
Many will have known Peter as the general manager of the
Western Cape Approved Electrical Inspection Authority, a position he held until his death. Peter was involved in the processes leading up to the legislating of Approved Inspection Authorities within the Electrical Installation Regulations 2009, and he served this segment of the industry tenaciously over many years.
Peter served on various SANS Working Groups and unselfishly gave up much of his time to fur-thering electrical safety standards. He was known as a man of his word – strict, yet fair, and someone who stood up for his beliefs. There can be no doubt that he loved his work; and his knowledge and interpretation of electrical regula-
tions and the law was recognised by many in the industry. He often presented training seminars and he was in his element when he was able to fulfil his passion of mentoring others and sharing his knowledge with them.
The large attendance at his memorial service was proof of the influence he had in the industry and that he was loved and respect-ed by family and friends. Peter will be remembered for his dedication to the industry and especially for his fight to uphold the principles of safety. The industry is a better place because of his dedication and hard work and although he will be sorely missed, he will be remembered for his work in the
Obituary for Peter Bernurr Smuts
Personality of the Month
Cliff Theunissen.
It always seems impossible until it’s done…
CLIFF Theunissen has been country manager for the Brady Corporation for the past two years. Focused and forward-looking, Cliff knows that success only comes to those who are prepared to work hard.
Although he is a relative newcomer to the electrical industry, he is passionate about Brady’s products and what they can do to make electri-cians’ lives less complicated. Sparks: Where were you educated? CT: I grew up in Newcastle in northern KwaZulu-Natal and matriculated from Newcastle High School. My dad challenged me to study both elec-trical and mechanical engineering and I obtained an N5 in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering at Newcastle Technology Centre. I am now busy with an IMM marketing diploma that I will complete this semester.Sparks: How long have you been involved in the electrical industry?CT: I’ve been in this industry since I started with Brady two years ago. Sparks: When and where did you start your career?CT: I started off as a sales representative in the industrial market selling abrasives in KwaZulu-Natal for a 3M distributor. I then relocated to Johannesburg and moved industries, starting in 3M’s automotive aftermarkets division. In 2008, 3M acquired Aearo and I was promoted to market
segment leader and assisted with the integration of distribution and expanding the 3M footprint in South Africa and the SADC. Within a year, I was promoted to sales manager in the Occupational Health Division.
In March 2012, I was approached by Brady to as-sist with the local integration of Grafo Wiremarkers Africa, which Brady Corporation had acquired.Sparks: What are the greatest changes you have seen over the years?CT: For me, one of the greatest changes has been the evolution in cable and wire management.
Historically, the electrical industry was limited when it came to cable identification solutions; however, today we have hundreds of solutions, most of which can be done in the field with a port-able printer. Sparks: What major projects have you worked on and what is your greatest accomplishment?CT: It was a huge accomplishment when we changed a specification for an entire project – a new section of a mine – and it was gratifying when the project team benefited from working with the new solution. Sparks: Have you won any awards?CT: While I was at 3M, I won the managing direc-tor’s award for the ‘Best Tactical Plan – Marketing – 2008’ and the managing director’s award for the ‘Best Tactical Plan – Sales – 2010’. Sparks: Who has been your inspiration or have you had a mentor who has influenced your career?CT: I am fortunate to have worked with two inspiring people: Devan Pillay, who at the time was 3M’s country business leader and Paul Rombouts, who is my current manager. Both of them were instrumental in moulding me and giving me the guidance that has led me to where I am today.
For this I am extremely grateful.Sparks: What, to your mind, is one of the biggest challenges facing the industry at this time?CT: The biggest and most frustrating challenge for many would be the ongoing strikes in the mining sector. The mining industry contributes about 18% of total GDP and employs almost half a million people, directly affecting thousands of suppliers, service providers and manufactures that service the industry. Sparks: What do you enjoy most about your job?
CT: I enjoy the challenge of inspiring the team at Grafo to push their boundaries and watching them grow day by day. There is no better feeling than setting objectives and then, on review, see-ing that growth and deliverables have been met above expectations.Sparks: How do you motivate your staff?CT: I’m very lucky to have a super team. We all work towards a com-mon goal and assist each other whenever and wherever possible. I ensure that the team members have all the tools they require to be suc-cessful and help them work towards set strategies and goals. I also spend time with them in the field to help close projects or just to understand their current frustrations.Sparks: If you could ‘do it all again’, would you change anything? If so, what would that be?CT: I have no regrets and wouldn’t change anything.Sparks: Would you advise a person leaving school to enter the electri-cal industry? And why?CT: Most certainly. The electrical market is one of the most vital com-ponents for a growing economy and there will always be opportuni-ties for SMEs and corporates in this space. Sparks: What is your advice to elec-trical contractors and/or electrical engineers?CT: Take advantage of the support and the education that we as manufacturers bring to the market. There are hundreds of new solutions launched in the industry every year, and these solutions are produced with end-users in mind to make their lives simpler.Sparks: What is your favourite quote?CT: “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” - Nelson Mandela.
Sparks: Name three things on your ‘bucket list’ (things you want to do before you ‘kick the bucket’)CT: I would like to do the Absa Cape Epic Mountain Bike Race; do my MBA; and travel the world with my family.
electrical industry. Peter is survived by his wife, Stella; his son, Simon; daughter, Roelene; and daughter-in-law, Delanie.
17 November, 1949 to 21 March 2014
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
may 2014
C4 contractors’ corner
Working knowledge by Terry McKenzie-Hoy
THERE must be many of us in the electrical business who don’t know how we make money. Our accountants have a view of how we make money that differs from ours. Every darn thing they see as ‘income’ and every single expense has to be proven. If I employ a roadside gang to pull cables, then the accountant wants me to record the payments to them, their ID numbers and places of residence, so that I have some sort
of compensation insurance in place in case of injury, and that I deduct tax.
We all know that half of the roadside workers are frequently illegal immigrants with no ID at all; that half the road side workers won’t give their correct names if they fear reprisals and that no one will provide a correct address. So, you think, give the guys R200 per day and lunch and be done with it. But, when you present the cost
of a roadside gang to your accountants, they don’t want to know.
What if, they ask, SARS wants proof? And this is where criminality creeps in. If SARS does want proof, you can give them proof. A nimble operator with a spread sheet can generate any number of addresses, ID numbers, names... the whole nine yards. Then, given proof, is SARS go-ing to check it? No way.
The average small electrical business person ‘sorta-kinda’ knows how much he spends on labour and salaries and how much on materials and transport and petrol and incidental costs (like road side gang labour) and, at the end of it, there is some money left that the boss takes and calls it ‘income’, upon which tax is levied, and rightly so.
The accountants have a different song, and
Small businesses, accountants and SARS e-filing
it goes like this: The small business gets a total income of which some is offset against expenses such as salaries and petrol. The rest is taxable income. You can’t offset the road gang labour and similar costs, even if you incur them, unless you have solid proof that the R2 000 you drew from the ATM was spent on labour, etc.
The small business boss has his income taxed at a handsome rate and then the com-pany is taxed at a similarly handsome rate and then, often, there’s nothing left unless the boss has proof of every expense, which is just not practical.
An accountant reading this will be laugh-ing right now, amused at how little I know about accounting. Now, I know that an accountant wouldn’t know an 11kV heat shrink cable joint if it bit him on the finger and, similarly, to me double entry book-keeping sounds stupid.
The point is, the accountant doesn’t ever have to know what an 11kV cable joint is but, sooner or later, I will, moneywise, have to enter into the world of the ac-countant and pay for it even though I don’t understand it. And I resent that. I heard the other day that the government wants small business to grow five million jobs in the RSA economy.
This is all well and good but to make this happen, small businesses must be encour-aged and, if the authorities are serious, they must change small business accounting and tax.
Here’s how: Create a new set of tax and accounting laws for small businesses to be administrated by some qualified people who can understand how small businesses operate. Make it dead simple to understand; something like this: issue a spread sheet in which the small business enters in one column the income for the month, a column for salaries, a column for casual labour, a col-umn for fuel and purchases and a column for incidental expenses.
All the small business man has to do is complete the form. In turn it will produce PAYE and VAT to be paid and a running update on tax liability.
The small business boss submits it to SARS, pays via EFT and there you go. Not too difficult? No, not when compared to SARS e-filing, which is still a mystery to me.
Ok, so in doing it this way – effectively eliminating the accountant – will it result in small businesses cheating? Maybe, but no more than they already do, I am afraid.
Right now the system is not working.
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
may 2014
Getting to grips with SANS 10142–1 by Hannes Baard
contractors’ corner C7
ously trip the circuit breaker and thereby protect any technicians working on the equipment from electrical shock. The above is also addressed in the Electrical Installation Regulations 2009 of the Act (we will tackle those regulations some time in the future) that states: “A registered person shall exercise general control over all electrical installation work being carried out, and no person may allow such work without such control.”
Now, how are these health and safety issues addressed in real life? Here is a short extract from the Safety, Health, Environmental and Quality Risk Management Policy statement of one of this country’s large employers:
“ABC Company as the custodian of ‘many busi-nesses’, while committed to the competitiveness of the South African economy by contributing to reduce the cost of doing business in South Africa, will integrate SHEQ Risk Management to its core business activities and, as part of such integration undertakes to:• Comply, as a minimum, with all applicable safety,
health and environmental legislation, regula-tions as well as international protocols and codes ratified by the Republic of South Africa;
• Provide and maintain appropriate resources to identify and manage SHEQ risks and support the development and implementation of relevant best practice systems such as ISO 14001, ISO 9001 and OHSAS 18001;
• Manage and mitigate SHEQ risks inherent to ‘ABC Company’ to be within legally acceptable limits.”
This concludes our discussion on Section 8 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 1993).
Till next time.
FOR some time now we have been discussing the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 1993) with specific reference to the parts that impact directly on the electrical industry. To start, let’s have another look at the Act’s ‘credo’ (if you will), which reads: “To provide for the health and safety of persons at work and for the health and safety of persons in connection with the use of plant and machinery; the protection of persons other than persons at work against hazards to health and safety arising out of or in connection with the activities of persons at work; to establish an advisory council for occupa-tional health and safety; and to provide for matters connected therewith.”
So to continue... In last month’s column, we touched on Section 8 – General duties of employ-ers to their employees’.
The sub sections to this state:(1) Every employer shall provide and maintain, as far as is reasonably practicable, a working environ-ment that is safe and without risk to the health of his employees.
This means the employer must use suitably qual-ified electricians to carry out maintenance work on the lights, for instance, and ensure a Certificate of Compliance is issued for work done that requires a CoC and that it’s kept on file.(2) Without derogating from the generality of an employer’s duties under subsection (1), the matters to which those duties refer include in particular…
We pick up our discussion from sub paragraph (e):(e) Providing such information, instructions, training and supervision as may be necessary to ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety at work of his employees.
These days, this is commonly known as ‘induc-tion’. When you join a new employer, or if you have to do some work on a customer’s premises, you may have to undergo such induction – or specialist instruction that informs you of any specifics relating to the working environment – to prepare you for the working conditions at that particular location.(f) As far as is reasonably practicable, not permit-ting any employee to do any work or to produce, process, use, handle, store or transport any article or substance or to operate any plant or machinery, unless the precautionary measures contemplated in paragraphs (b) and (d), or any other precaution-ary measures which may be prescribed, have been taken.
This can also mean that a vacuum cleaner or drilling machine should not have malfunctioning on-off switches and/or frayed power cords that can cause an electric shock, for instance. And if the provision of a guard for the grinder’s blade is not enough, we must use goggles and/or gloves, etc. In other words, we must use personal protec-tive equipment (PPE).
Furthermore…
(g) Taking all necessary measures to ensure that the requirements of this Act are complied with by every person in his employment or on premises under his control where plant or machinery is used;(h) Enforcing such measures as may be necessary in the interest of health and safety;(i) Ensuring that work is performed and that plant or machinery issued under the general supervision of a person trained to understand the hazards associ-ated with it and who have the authority to ensure that precautionary measures taken by the employer are implemented; and(j) Causing all employees to be informed regarding the scope of their authority as contemplated in sec-tion 37 (1) (b).
The above also includes that there should be some kind of “standard operating procedure” in place to address any possible health and safety issues that may arise. This is normally taken care of with things like ‘lock out procedures’ and a ‘permit system’ that have been imbedded within certain actions and supervisory controls. Say, for instance, that I need to repair a very large machine such as a conveyor belt that is a few hundred metres long. To work on that piece of equipment I would have to get a permit issued by the electrical supervi-sor. This permit usually sets out some rules that I have to obey. These rules can include inter alia certain lock-out actions of switching or interlocks to prevent the machine being switched on ac-cidentally. I may even be required to earth the live
Closing the book on Section 8… for now
The new ergonomic PicoFinish electric precision screwdriver from WIHA has protective insulation on the blade that is VDE-GS 1000V certified. Each VDE precision screwdriver is tested to 10 000V in a water bath before being packed for distribution. Now electricians can have the safety of 1 000V protection even with the smallest of screws.
“This is especially important when working live on electrical or electronic components,” says Garry Lumpe, adding that these precision screwdrivers also eliminate the risk of accidentally touching live parts and causing a short circuit. The PicoFinish precision VDE screwdrivers are available in flats from 1.5mm to 3.5mm, Philips from PH00 to PH1 and packed in a six-piece set.
Enquiries: (011) 396-4065
conductors of any electrical motors so that, in the highly unlikely event of an accidental switch-on of the power, the earthed live conductors will instantane-Precision screwdrivers
for electricians
ELECTRA Mining Africa will take place from 15-19 September at the Expo Centre, Nasrec, Johannesburg. As Africa’s premier mining, industrial, electrical and machines tools show, Electra Mining Africa is on the interna-tional calendar and has a proven record for being a strong catalyst for new investment opportunities with billions of Rands worth of equipment being showcased. The show attracts stakeholders from all over the world.
With increased exhibition floor space to accom-modate the growing demand from exhibitors, this year’s show will have a world-class line up offering visitors the perfect opportunity to compare and plan future capital equipment purchases as well as to view all the latest technology. Exhibitors can meet with people in the buying chain to discuss products and solutions.
“Influential decision makers from the mining, industrial, electrical and machines tools sectors are regular visitors to Electra Mining Africa. They travel from within South Africa, sub-Saharan Africa and from a large footprint across the globe,” says Gary Corin, managing director, Specialised Exhibitions
Electra Mining Africa coming upMontgomery, organisers of the show
“We have also added other fun, interactive activities to ensure a memorable experience
for visitors,” says Corin. “The 4X4 track will test the best in driving skills, the gold panning and amazing race will give out exciting prizes, the golf carts will ensure ease of movement around the large exhibition area, a trip on the monorail will give a different view of the show.”
“Many of our visitors to Electra Mining Africa are based in Africa and travel to the show to meet with exhibitors with the aim of sourcing new suppliers and seeing the latest products and services on offer,” says Corin. “It’s also an ideal place to network with peers and industry professionals and interact with specialists and technicians.”
Electra Mining is also expanding its footprint into Afri-ca with upcoming shows in Zambia and Botswana. The Copperbelt Mining Trade Expo & Conference (CBM-TEC) is taking place on 28 and 29 April in Zambia and Electra Mining Botswana is back at the Gaborone Fairgrounds in September 2015 after its successful inaugural event in September last year.
For further information visit www.electramining.co.zaEnquiries: (011) 835-1565
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
may 2014
C8 contractors’ corner
BRADY, a global leader in industrial and safety printing systems and solutions, recently announced the release of the BMP21-PLUS handheld label printer.
This new portable printer is the latest in on-the-job labeler for electrical, tel-ecom, datacom and general industrial environments. It combines a tough ex-terior with smart printing capabilities for wires and cables, terminal blocks,
Tough new label printer with smart printing capabilities
THE South African Breweries’ (SAB) youth entrepreneurship development programme, SAB KickStart, has opened its 2014/2015 competition entries to entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 35.
Entrants selected to participate in the 18 month-long programme stand the chance of winning a share of R6 million worth of business support, including an interna-tional business learning trip.
SAB KickStart follows a competition model and provides youth entrepreneurs running small businesses with a comprehensive package of business development support to increase the chances of building sustainable and high impact entities able to contribute towards job creation. In 2013, SAB KickStart’s 14 national finalists created more than 60 jobs within their respective communities.
The business development support package includes
business skills training, a business development strategy, grant funding and personalised mentorship. “Providing this comprehensive business support we believe can make a significant contribution to growing high impact businesses that are sustainable beyond the normal failure period of 3 years,” says Boipelo Nkadimeng, SAB head enterprise development and community partnerships.
The recruitment phase selects 60 entrants who are pro-vided with intensive business skills training over a period of two-weeks. This takes place in Johannesburg between July and August 2014. During this training, participants are shown how to develop an effective business plan. The best of these plans are selected by an independent adjudication panel and entrepreneurs go through to final and national stage of the competition.
Enquiries: (011) 881-8493
SAB Kickstart 2014 calls for entries
patch panels, flat surfaces and more.
“Once you experi-ence the unstoppable
labeling power of the BMP21-PLUS
printer, you are not going to want
to share,” says Hilde de Swerdt, EMEA demand
creation director for Brady. “It improves any labeling experience
by bringing together the brains and the brawn needed to take on the day-to-day rigours of any job.” The shape of the BMP21-PLUS printer
has been re-engineered for enhanced durability and ergonomics, with a centre balance and ridges for easy grip-ping and handling.
The high-visibility yellow and black colours and protective rubber bumpers give the printer jobsite visibility backed by proven performance.
It has passed shock and vibration testing, per MIL-STD-810G Method 5.16.6 S4.6.5, to demonstrate that it can take a beating and still perform.
Not only has the BMP21-PLUS been made tougher on the outside, it’s even smarter on the inside. The printer features a new lithium-ion long-life battery, a large back-lit LCD display and a graphics library with 104 symbols for electric, smart home, safety and data-
com applications. It also has automatic label formatting for nine common applications, including wire markers and patch panels, allowing users to simply drop in a label cartridge and begin printing – no setup required.
These elements are enhanced by the printer’s expanded material colour and size options, including 70 highly-engineered material parts up to 19mm-wide continuous label for-mats. Once the label is printed and cut, the grabber feature holds onto the label and prevents it from
falling out and onto the ground.“The structural integrity and wide
range of printing capabilities alone make the BMP21-PLUS a standout in the marketplace,” adds De Swerdt. “What’s more, the printer will remain in top working condition with the two-year warranty that comes standard on this printer.”
Available accessories for the BMP21-PLUS label printer include a heavy duty
magnet accessory for the convenience of hands-free printing and a multi-functional accessory with magnet, flashlight and retractable printer stand for easy handling.
With the release of the BMP21-PLUS printer, the current BMP21 product is discontinued.
The accessories and supply cartridges for the BMP21 printer will also work in the new BMP21-PLUS printer.
To learn more about Brady’s new BMP21-PLUS printer, visit www.bradyeurope.com/bmp21plus or email [email protected]. Enquiries: 08000GRAFO (47136)
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
may 2014
contractors’ corner C9
I COME across many people who are still unfamiliar with National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB) and its func-tions. Whether you are an artisan or involved in artisan development, you need to be familiar with the body that is responsible for the development and certification of artisans in South Africa.
I have decided to use this column to provide the information relating to changes affecting this industry. 1. Background information Skills development and, in particular, artisan development, is regulated through a single national policy re-gime that is based on the primary legislation of the Skills Development Act, Act 97 of 1998 (SDA). The SDA falls under the control of the Minister of Higher Education and Training in South Africa.
During 2008, the SDA, was amended to strengthen the national policy that governs artisan development in South Africa. One of the critical outcomes of the amendment was the establish-ment of a National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB) on 30 November 2010 within the Department of Higher Education and Training to coordinate artisan development in the Republic.
The NAMB is established in terms of Section 26A (1) (a) of the Skills Devel-opment Act (SDA), Act 97 of 1998 as an operational unit within the Depart-ment of Higher Education and Training with statutory functions.
The NAMB is an integral part of the Department of Higher Education and Training and not a public entity or a state-owned company.
The director general of the Depart-ment of Higher Education and Training is the accounting officer of the NAMB in terms of the Public Finance Manage-ment Act and has the responsibility to provide NAMB with personnel and financial resources to operationalise the NAMB to carry out its statutory functions.
The director general of the Depart-ment of Higher Education and Training has implemented the process to operationalise the NAMB by allocating the NAMB to the Chief Directorate: Indlela that is a Chief Directorate located at Olifantsfontein, Gauteng, and falls within the skills branch of the Department of Higher Education and Training. 2. Strategic and operational objectives The work of the NAMB falls under the departmental strategic objective to “provide a dynamic interface between the workplace and learning institutions and to promote quality of learning at work and for work” as reflected in both the Departmental Strategic Plan for 2010/11 – 2014/15 as well as the An-nual Performance Plan for 2013 – 2014.
To achieve the above departmental strategic objective in respect of artisan development in particular and fulfil its statutory obligations to coordinate artisan development in the Republic, the NAMB has two specific operational objectives: • Plan, develop, implement, coordi-
nate, monitor and evaluate a single national artisan development sys-tem by March 2014; and
• Support the growth of the
Training and development by Nick du Plessis
There is hope for artisan development in this countrypublic FET College system by linking all quality assurance artisan learn-ing processes with FET Colleges by March 2014.
3. Statutory functions The NAMB is required by Section 26A(2) of the SDA to perform the following statutory functions: • Monitor the performance of accred-
ited artisan trade test centres. • Moderate artisan trade tests. • Develop, maintain and apply a na-
tional data of instruments for assess-ments and moderation of artisan trade tests.
• Develop and maintain a national da-tabase of registered artisan trade as-sessors and moderators.
• Record artisan achievements. • Determine appeals against assess-
ment decisions. • Recommend certification of artisans
to the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO).
• Perform any other prescribed function.
4. Roles and responsibilities The core responsibility of the NAMB is the coordination of artisan develop-ment nationally to achieve a single, common national standard across all economic sectors for artisan develop-ment as contemplated in the SDA. This core role and responsibility includes the sub roles and responsibilities to de-velop, implement and manage systems and processes to operationalise the: • Statutory functions of the NAMB as
per Section 26A of the SDA;• Listing of occupations as trades in the
Gazette as per Section 26B of the SDA; • Registration of qualified artisans as
per Section 26C of the SDA; • Regulation of artisan trade testing as
per Section 26D of the SDA; • Functions of an assessment quality
partner for all listed artisan trades, as per Gazette 35625 dated 31 August 2012, delegated to the NAMB by the QCTO as per Section 261 of the SDA and as detailed in a Ser-vice Level Agreement between NAMB and QCTO; and
• The National Artisan Moderation Forum to standardise all quality assurance functions of artisan development.
5. Strategic partnerships Coordination of artisan development nationally to achieve a single, common national standard across all sectors for artisan develop-ment requires that NAMB works with a range of fully inclusive strategic partner-ships that includes but is not limited to: • The Artisan and Techni-
cian Development Mon-itoring and Evaluation Team (ATD-MET) of the Human Resource De-velopment Council that is a stakeholder body made up of organised business, organised la-bour and the State. This task team also fulfils the function of a ministerial task team on artisan de-
velopment reporting to the Minister of Higher Education and Training. This structure is considered the apex struc-ture for artisan and technician devel-
alive and well in South Africa. I am involved in some of the develop-
ment work of NAMB and I believe that some good work is being done that will
improve the skills development of future artisans. This article can be found on the National Artisan Development website http://nadsc.dhet.gov.za/
opment in South Africa. • The sub-committee for
artisan and technician development of the SETA Chief Executive Officer Forum made up of members of all SETA staff who are technical, operational and admin-istrative experts in arti-san and technician de-velopment.
• The committee for arti-san and technician de-velopment between the Departments of Higher Education and Training and Public Enterprises is made up of members of both departments and state-owned companies such as Eskom, Transnet, South African Airways and Denel that are tech-nical, operational and administrative experts in artisan and technician development.
• The sub-committee for artisan and technician development of the government SETAs Chief Executive Officer Forum made up of members of relevant SETA staff as well as staff from rele-vant national, provincial and local government departments that are technical, operational and administrative ex-perts in artisan and tech-nician development.
With this information, you should now have a sense that artisan development is
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
may 2014
WHILE the construction of Eskom’s three new power stations has captured public attention, a vital part of the new-build programme has gone almost unnoticed – the huge project to strengthen the country’s national grid as these new plants are linked to the network.
In addition to linking up the giant coal-fired plants, Medupi and Kusile, and the pumped storage station Ingula, Eskom’s new-build programme includes a number of initiatives to strengthen the grid by installing ad-ditional transmission lines and upgrading existing ones.
This is a significant investment. Thus far Eskom has spent R21-billion on transmission projects, which will increase to R34.5-billion by the time the build programme is completed.
C10 contractors’ corner
Additional transmission lines will strengthen the grid
Since the start of the build programme, Eskom has installed some 5 200km of new transmission lines as well as substations with a transfer capability of more than 24 000MVA. While most of these high-voltage lines are 400kV, a significant portion of the new lines are higher capacity – 765kV – which provides bet-ter transfer capability of bulk power over long distances such as to centres in KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.
The integration of the new Medupi power station near Lephalale is mainly via the 400kV network to Rustenburg and Polokwane. How-ever, one of the lines is built to carry 765kV, but will be operated at 400kV in the interim. This gives Eskom the flexibility of upgrading to 765kV in future.
Kusile in Mpumalanga and Ingula in the Drakensberg will be linked to the grid mainly via existing 400kV networks, as both are in close proximity to established networks and load centres.
Since 2007, in excess of 1 560km of 765kV power line has been laid and handed to the various transmission grids to maintain and operate. Most are operated at 765kV but there are a few exceptions such as the link between Majuba and Umfolozi in KZN, where the line is operated at 400kV until the rest of the 765kV infrastructure is in place.
By 2016, the 765kV network will stretch from the power stations in Mpumalanga to the Western Cape. The 765kV team is now busy with the section between Beaufort West and Ceres, which will be completed in the current financial year. Construction on the remain-ing portion from Ceres to Cape Town will start early in 2014 and will take two years to complete.
These projects all have their own individual challenges. In the Klerksdorp area, the erection of towers was complicated by undermining – the area was dotted with shallow coal mines about 100 years old for which there were no mining maps. Between Orkney and Parys, the team encountered extensive waterlogged areas, and in the Northern Cape they found huge amounts of shallow rock.
The team is currently working on the chal-lenges posed by mountains in the Western Cape as they plan the completion of the 765kV transmission line to Cape Town. Traversing the mountains is extremely difficult for construc-tion vehicles and getting heavy cranes and concrete trucks to tower positions will be hugely problematic.
So far the team has built more than 3 000 towers along the various routes carrying the new transmission lines. The materials used include nearly 79 000 tons of structural steel and more than 100 000 tons of concrete foundations.
While rolling out 765kV power lines at an unprecedented rate, Eskom has maintained a safety record of which it is proud. Since 2009, there has been a consistent improvement in the lost-time injury rate due to continuous management interventions, and Eskom has maintained a remarkable record for a high-risk industry such as line construction. In addi-tion, the team has on a number of occasions achieved three-million man-hours without a lost time incident.
Pictured at the Schneider Electric media forum, which introduced the company’s southern African leadership team and highlighted its growth strategies in the region, are Schneider Electric South Africa representatives (from left) Eric Léger (country president for Southern Africa); Ntombi Mhangwani (marketing and communications); Nico van der Merwe (director for the company’s retail business); and Stephanie de Graaf, who manages the company’s upcoming Xperience Efficiency South Africa 2014 event. As the new retail business director for south-ern Africa at Schneider Electric, Van der Merwe is responsible for generating sales growth in the region through the company’s network of partners. His priorities are to leverage these historical-ly strong partner relationships, grow the customer network and ensure customer satisfaction. Van der Merwe is also responsible for introducing new technologies into the market, creating de-mand for Schneider Electric products within the channel partner network and ensuring that the organisation continues to lead the southern African energy management sector.
Enquiries: (011) 465-3356
Going places…
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
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D distribution boards, switches, sockets and protection12
THE Megger MIT310 insulation and con-tinuity tester is a robust and powerful
continuity tester that can carry out in-sulation testing at 250, 500 and 1 000V with a test range of 1 000 megaohms.
It also provides continuity testing at 100 megaohms and voltage measurements at
600V with both alternating and direct current.Megger has designed this insulation tester with
regard to safety regulations. When working with
this device, users are protected by the innovative safety interlock system that aims to reduce the occurrence of incorrect or dangerous test lead connections.
The MIT310 stops the user from conducting tests when the circuit voltage is higher than 50V and therefore dangerous. It also prevents continuity testing from being carried out on circuits that are live through the safety lockout functionality.
This insulation tester has been manufactured to
last thanks to its rugged rubber casing. The screen is also protected through the use of the solid lid that is double-hinged. Users can easily fold away the screen protector whenever the device is used.
It is also compliant with IP54 standards of water-proofing so it works effectively in even the most demanding of weather conditions.
Megger is represented locally by Surgetek.All content courtesy of Megger.
Enquiries: (011) 792-1303
A robust insulation and continuity tester
MODULAR power distribution enclosures from Legrand are designed for optimum efficiency and quick installation, in commercial and industrial ap-plications. The range of XL³ cabinets and enclosures has been extended to now include XL³ 6300 enclo-sures which can be equipped with DMX³ air circuit breakers up to 6 300A.
“These flexible XL³ 6300 distribution enclosures consist of the combination of a ‘roof-base’ assembly and structural uprights, as well as rear and side panels which can be adapted at any time,” says Luk Ivens, general manager, Legrand Southern Africa. “Standard distribution allows the user to choose busbars and their supports, with a personal configuration for efficient power distribution
The optimised distribution system offers the combination of vertical XL-part columns and horizontal XL-part distribution blocks. This system, which ensures freedom of assembly, eliminates the need to create special connections upstream and ensures time savings in installations by being able to connect appliances on pre-assembled units.
An important feature of this system is the facility for quick joining to any enclosure without the need for additional accessories. For optimum flexibility and adaptability, there are internal and external cables sleeves, as well as the capability for vertical and horizontal joining.
Trunking supports, wire guide rings and cable tie bars facilitate easy wiring through these enclosures and for enhanced convenience, all side walls and top and bottom plates can be assembled after wiring.
Legrand and its national distributor network also offer a technical advisory and support service.
Enquiries: (011) 444-7971
Legrand’s range of XL³ cabinets and enclosures has been extended to now include XL³ 6300 enclosures which can be equipped with DMX³ air circuit breakers up to 6 300A.
Flexible distribution enclosures ensure freedom of assembly
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
may 2014
distribution boards, switches, sockets and protection D13
SCOPE, represented in South Africa by TIA Online, has introduced its next generation of iconic SCOT Series circuit breaker time interval meters in all new super-light avatars, based on cutting edge micro-controller and embedded technology. SCOT incor-porates some state-of-the-art hardware and smart software features making it a ‘must have’ tool for testing and maintenance engineers for quick assess-ment of the operational health of circuit breakers.
A compact, lightweight and reliable instrument, it is used for measurement of operation times of all types of HV and EHV circuit breakers under live switchyard conditions.
Users can choose from two models: the SCOT M3K+ and the SCOT MXP+ depending on the type of testing to be done on circuit breakers. The SCOT M3K+ measures and displays ‘close’, ‘open’ and C-O
times of main contacts of three poles connected end-to-end, simultaneously; it is suitable for CBs with single break per pole.
The SCOT MXP+ measures, displays and prints ‘close’, ‘open’ and C-O times of two main and two PIR contacts per pole, three poles simultaneously, ensuring measurement of six main and six PIR contacts simultaneously, and is suitable for CBs hav-ing PIR contacts and multiple breaks per pole.
Proper functioning of CBs is of vital importance to ensure safety and availability of power network.
These are expected to operate reliably and within specified time limits in order to isolate the faults and save expensive equipment from stress or damage. In order to be assured of such consistent performance of CBs, periodical timing measurements are carried out.
Enquiries: (011) 608-8541
Next generation circuit breaker time interval meters
PRISMA Plus G are simple, functional systems for safe, upgradeable low voltage switchboards, up to 630A, available from Schneider Electric, a global specialist in energy manage-ment.
Building electrical installations more efficiently According to Jaque Maré, product
manager for installation systems at Schneider Electric South Africa, install-ers are guaranteed to build 100% Schneider Electric switchboards that are secure and optimised with Prisma
configurations, even the most demanding ones, have been tested.
Therefore, you can prove that your switchboard meets the current standards, at any time. You can also be sure to build a reliable electrical instal-lation, and give your custom-ers full satisfaction in terms of dependability and safety for people and the installation.”
Maré also highlights that Prisma Plus G has a discreet design that blends harmoni-ously into all tertiary and industrial buildings, including in entrance halls and pas-sageways. Major benefits of the systems include that they can be optimised and are upgradeable.
“With Prisma Plus G you can build just the right switch-board for your customer, sized precisely to fit costs and needs. With this complete, prefabricated and tested system, it’s easy to upgrade an installation and still maintain the performance levels,” says Maré.
An advantage too is that the wall-mounted and floor-standing enclo-sures combine easily with switch-boards already in service, meaning that devices can be replaced or added at any time.
The systems also offer installers straightforward organisation to make their job easier. It is especially the easy-to-read switchboard circuit dia-gram that makes on-site cabling and connection operations simple.
“The switchboard is set up in differ-ent functional units, organised natu-rally. The kit concept makes handling and transport easier and installers get to benefit from Schneider Electric’s efficient international logistics. Added to this is the company’s Rapsody soft-ware that makes design straightfor-ward and easy. It is a time-saver in the design and quotation phases, and of-
BUYING low voltage switchgear on price alone puts companies at risk of sub-standard products that could jeopardise plant performance and uptime. Zest WEG Group’s low voltage WEG switchgear is steadily being recognised as a viable alternative, offering price com-petitive SABS-approved products to the South African industrial and domestic markets with 24/7 technical backup across the full range.
“Today we’re in the same league as the traditional major brand switchgear suppliers and what sets us apart in these markets is our culture of service, which is rolled out countrywide through the Zest WEG Group branches and distributors, including the more outlying mining areas,” says Stephen Cook, switchgear manager at Zest WEG Group. “We make it our business to have an intimate understanding of our customers’ switchgear requirements and we pride ourselves on the ability to respond rapidly to technical queries. Since our distribu-tors all carry stock, we’re able to reduce downtime to a minimum.”
The Zest WEG Group first introduced a range of switchgear to the South African market seven years ago and the range progressively expanded to include world renowned WEG switchgear products which have a global presence. In 2006 the company established a dedicated low voltage switchgear division that received an immense boost four years later when WEG acquired Zest, giving the local market direct access to world class products, expertise and solutions. In subsequent years, leveraging WEG’s extensive experience has continued to boost the Zest WEG Group’s switchgear offering, leading to promising growth.
“Our own significant investment into obtaining SABS approval for our switchgear range and into training our personnel to identify and recommend the right product for specific customer applications, also gives us a competi-tive edge. We’ll continue to add to and upgrade our range, driven by product quality and robust aftersales service.”
World class products, expertise and solutions
Zest WEG Group switchgear stores clerk, Jacob Mathaba, checking that the item and coil voltages are correct on a WEG contactor before dispatching.
fers more flexibility since modifications and upgrades are possible throughout the project,” explains Maré.
Also, full access to all device mount-ing and connection points provides for easy fitting/ cabling in the workshop.
Maré highlights that the process is intuitive and the operations secure, with no false moves or lost time.
“Bottom line is that the systems allow for efficient installation and connection work on site. Prisma Plus G offers lots of space for cables, meaning that the switchboard can be installed, connected and checked both naturally and effortlessly.
“This is enhanced by easy mainte-nance throughout the switchboard. The cover plates can be easily removed, providing full access to the switchboard. The clear, organised device layout makes the switchboard easily legible and maintenance operations are quick and intuitive,” concludes Maré.
Enquiries: (011) 254-6400
Plus G systems. “All components, from switchgear,
distribution blocks, pre-fabricated con-nections and more, are perfectly rated and coordinated to work together,” he says. “In addition, all switchboard
The Zest WEG Group maintains a large and competitively priced low voltage switchgear stockholding. Once installed at customer operations, these products are serviced at the same level as all Zest WEG Group product lines and enjoy the same technical backup. Switchgear products available off the shelf include contactors, motor protection relays, motor circuit protection breakers, push buttons and indicat-ing lights, field isolator stations, motor starters in either polycarbonate or sheet metal enclosures and other associ-ated products.
A full catalogue of the Zest WEG Group switchgear prod-ucts is available online at www.zest.co.za.
Enquiries: (011) 723-6000
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
may 2014
BUYERS'Manufacturers & contacts
ABB South AfricaDudley Bath Aberdare CablesAnnelene SivalingumAC/DC DynamicsSalesAlstom Mechanical EquipmentJenny PretoriusAlstom Protection and ControlMartin KellyBEKA Schréder Wimpie LudwickCabstrutTheon SteynCrabtree Electrical AccessoriesAndre le RouxDivwattIan de VilliersEaton Electric SAYvane SmallbergerIskhus PowerVictor MatheyLegrandLuk IvensMajor TechWerner GrobbelaarMatelecAndrew DaviesMCE Global SuppliersSalesOmronSalesOsramSalesPhilips LightingLorato MaphiriPower Process SystemsMichael du ToitRadiant GroupAshveer LallaRittalDale AllisonSchneider ElectricNico van der Merwe Radiant GroupShuttle Lighting Control SystemsReg SmithSolar ConTimecountSales Tridonic South AfricaTrevor MilneVS Lighting ControlsBarry HallVoltexLizel de JagerVoltex LightingMarc RudmanVoltex LSisGary PatersonWaco IndustriesLectina ChabudaZest Energy (Zest WEG Group)Alastair Gerhard
Distributors & contacts
ARB Electrical WholesalersArvinash RamdassArcona InternationalSean Stewart/Sheldon PayneCitilecJeff FormanDynamic InstrumentationClive DignonEnervateLlewellan VanceEuroluxAndrew WexFGW GeneratorsRajen NaidooGenlux LightingSalesIskhus PowerSalesKG ElectricUwe KlingenbergMaxliteTrevor van der VyverNVC South AfricaGreg BowerPolar BlastingCarlos de GouveiaPower Panels and ElectricalAndy van der MerweSRE DevelopmentsSalesSolar ConDieter DilchertSUM – Spectrum Utility ManagementAnthony HawleySRE DevelopmentsCheryl HirdThorn Electrical DistributorsStephen Rogerson
AC/DC DynamicsSolar batteriesDivwattDistributor of Deltech, Willard, and other batteries for solar systemsSolar ConFull range of solar batteriesTimecountVoltmeters, current ammeters
Solar batteries
AC/DC DynamicsSolar hybrid systemsEaton Electric SAComponents for solar hybrid systemsKG ElectricFull range of solar hybrid systemsSolar ConFull range of solar hybrid systemsRepro Supplies ccFull range of solar hybrid systemsTimecountPower monitors, voltage and current relays
Solar hybrid systems
ABB South AfricaSolar electricity generationAberdare CablesSolarflex, Solardac, Lotox Bells & MainsAC/DC DynamicsSolar electricity generation Arcona IntenationalSolar reflectors to increase PV efficiencyDivwattDistributor of a full range of solar panels, solar regulators, solar lighting, batteries, etc; manufacturer of Terra high-efficiency sine wave invertersEaton Electric SAComponents for solar electricity generationFGW GeneratorsFG Wilson/Perkins generators from 9.5kVA to 2.5MVA in diesel, gas and bi-fuelKG ElectricFull range of solar PV modulesMaxliteBalance of system components for photovoltaic systemsOmronKP100L inverter – 3MPPT voltage rangeRepro Supplies ccComponents for solar electricity generationSolar ConAgent IBC Solar AG GermanyTimecountVoltmeters, panel meters, ammeters
Solar (photovoltaic) electricity generation
AC/DC DynamicsFull range of metersAlstom Mechanical EquipmentElectro-mechanical and electronic single- and polyphase metersARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of metersCircuit Breaker IndustriesPre-payment electricity meters and vending systems, railmount electricity meters, BS (conventional) electricity metersEaton Electric SAComponents for metersMatelecFull range of metersMaxliteRange of solar regulators/ meters specifically for fee-for-service solar systemsPower Process SystemsFull range of metersRadiant GroupMeter kW/h S/P 20(80A); Meter kW/h T/P 30(120)ASpecialised Heating ApplicationsMultimeters, clamps, meters, volt tick voltage detectors, insulation testers, and temperature sensors / metersThorn Electrical DistributorsFull range of metersTimecountTest and measuring instruments, maximum demand meters, power quality meters, recorders
Meters
Alstom Mechanical EquipmentTempadair fan heaters, convection heaters, skirting heaters, tubular heaters, and infra red heatersMatelecFull range heating optionsRadiant GroupInfrared 2x600W and 3x500W bathroom heatersRittalFull range of heating optionsSchneider ElectricUnder floor, under tile and under carpet heatingTimecountTemperature Controllers; thermocouplesVoltexFull range of heatersWaco IndustriesFull range of heaters
Heating
AC/DC DynamicsRange of solar water pumping systemsDivwattManufacturer of the Solastar solar powered submersible bore hole pumping systemKG ElectricFull range of pumping systemsSolar ConIBC Solar borehole pumpsRepro Supplies ccRange of solar water pumping systems
Solar (photovoltaic) water pumping
AC/DC DynamicsVentilation productsAlstom Mechanical EquipmentXpelair extraction fans, Woods industrial and mining fansARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of ventilation productsEaton Electric SAComponents for ventilation systemsRadiant GroupWall, ceiling and window extractor fansSchneider ElectricCeiling exhaust fans with and without light; window exhaust fansVoltexExtractor fansWaco IndustriesExtractor fans
Ventilation
Eaton Electric SAComponents for micro-hydro electricity generationSolar ConAgent Lahmeyer InternationalZest Energy (Zest WEG Group)Micro-hydro electricity generation
Micro-hydro electricity generation
Aberdare CablesLotox Bells & Mains, Vultex XLPE, WindacAC/DC DynamicsWind electricity generationDivwattDistributor of a wide range of wind turbinesEaton Electric SAComponents for wind electricity generation KG ElectricFull service wind generationSolar ConAgent Kestrel WindTimecountVarious electrical transducers, power quality instrumentsThorn Electrical DistributorsFull range wind electricity generation
Wind electricity generation
AC/DC DynamicsLighting control systemsARB Electrical WholesalersLighting control systemsArcona InternationalFull range of lighting controlsBEKA Schréder Full range of lighting controlsCitilecFull range of lighting controlCrabtree Electrical AccessoriesOccupancy sensors – passive infrared, microwaveDivwattDistributor of the Sundaya range of 12V DC lighting equipment; manufacturers of the Aurora solar powered LED streetlightEaton Electric SAComponents for lighting control systemsEnervateMegaman dimmers and dimmable rangeEuroluxComprehensive range of switches, sensors and timersGenlux LightingSole agent for Carmanal Technologies Corp , manufacturers of LED solar powered lighting solutions LegrandSwitches, dimmers, time switches, switch sensors and home automationMajor TechSuppliers of compact power meters, power quality analysers, current loggers, current and voltage loggers and leakage loggersMatelecFull range lighting controlMaxliteDc and ac electronic fluorescent lamp controls; manufacturer and importerMCE Global SuppliersO-Lite day-night sensors, O-Lite energy saving occupancy sensors, O-Lite Micro Sensitive Sensors and lampsNVC South AfricaX-Distributor for full range of Danlers Lighting and HVAC controlsOsramFull range of commercial, industrial, domestic and specialised lighting control; electronic control gear for fluorescent, metal halide and low voltage halogen lamps; CFLsPhilips LightingFull range of lighting control systemsPolar BlastingRetrofit Retrolux T5 energy saving adaptor for fluorescent light fittingsPower Panels and ElectricalFull range of lighting control systemsRadiant GroupSimple switch for lighting automation/control; passive infrared occupancy sensorsSchneider ElectricCBus home automation systemShuttle Lighting Control SystemsA specialist in LED dimming and universal dimmers, building management systems and metersSolar ConFull range of lighting control and LED lightsSRE DevelopmentsDistributor of lighting control systemsTimecountTime switchesTridonic South AfricaWarm and cold start electronic ballasts, DALI, digital dimming systems, switch dimmersVS Lighting ControlsBallasts (magnetic and electronic for linear and HID use); lampholders, capacitors and ignitors
Lighting control
DivwattConsulting and training for the solar energy and renewable energy fieldDynamic InstrumentationElectrical faulty-finding using infra-red cameras and softwareIskhus PowerManufacturer and distributor of ElectroFlow technology, as well as other energy efficient power products Solar ConFull range of consulting and investment servicesTimecountEnergy management solutions, portable energy testing
Consulting and investment services
E energy efficiency14
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
may 2014
Disclaimer: Information will be published as supplied. Only manufacturers who meet the deadline are included in the guide. The onus is on manufacturers to ensure that the editor is notified of any
changes to existing listings.
GUIDE
AC/DC DynamicsSolar water heating systems Arcona InternationalSolar absorption surfaces high absorption with low emissionMaxliteWaterlite range of solar water heaters, high pressure and low pressure manufactured in SATimecountLiquid level relays
Solar water heating
AC/DC DynamicsSolar batteriesDivwattDistributor of Deltech, Willard, and other batteries for solar systemsSolar ConFull range of solar batteriesTimecountVoltmeters, current ammeters
Solar batteries
DivwattDevelopment of the required controllers to power the Solastar from wind turbines and solar/wind hybridsKG ElectricFull range of water pumping systems
Wind and water pumping
Arcona InternationalSolar reflection surfaces
Solar cooking
CabstrutFull range of air conditioning accessories and kitsEaton Electric SA Components for air conditioning systemsRadiant GroupModern design split air conditioners with heating and coolingRittalFull range of air conditioning systemsTimecountTimers, time switches, II pin relaysVoltexEnergy saving and standard air conditionersWaco IndustriesEnergy saving and standard air conditioners
Air conditioning
AC/DC DynamicsWater heating productsMCE Global SuppliersDIN rail and mini rail geyser timersSRE DevelopmentsWater heating systems
Water heatingSolar Lighting
Aberdare CablesSolarflex, SolardacBEKA SchréderFull range of solar lightingAC/DC DynamicsFull range of solar lightingCitilecFull range of solar lightingEaton Electric SAFull range of solar lightingEuroluxSolar spikes, solar kits, mobile solar kitsMaxliteRange of solar lightingPhilips LightingFull range of solar lightingRepro Supplies ccFull range of solar lighting
RittalFull range of fuel cells
Fuel cells
Eenergy efficiency 15
(010) 202-5000
(010) 202-3300
(011) 238-0000
(011) 334-2737
(011) 396-8000
(011) 608-2970(011) 879-2000
(012) 991-3122
(011) 254-6400
(011) 826-5364
(011) 822-1551
(011) 386-0000
(011) 494-3550
(011) 683-0641
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
may 2014
D distribution boards, switches, sockets and protection16
THE South African division of Bosch Power Tools has launched the compact PLR 15 laser range finder, which allows the user to easily measure lengths and distances.
The Bosch PLR 15 has an easy-to-use one-button operation that allows for intuitive and instantaneous measurement. Bosch Industrial Power Tools SA senior brand manager, Craig Ber-ridge, says the laser technology in the PLR 15 gives the user exact measurements.
He explains: “The Bosch PLR 15 laser range finder has a working range of up to 15m, and is accurate to within 3mm. The laser technology provides accurate and reliable measurements. The laser emits a direct and straight beam onto the
Making measuring easy with laser technologytarget, offering precise measurements.”
The sliding on/off switch immediately starts a continuous measurement, which is updated every 0,5 seconds. The device continuously displays the current distance between the reference point and the surface where the laser beam is aimed.
An added feature is the red button that be-comes visible once the device has been switched on. When this button is pressed the current meas-ured value is stored and can be conveniently read on the illuminated display screen.
Berridge says the PLR 15 has three different mode settings.
“There is the continuous measurement mode, which is activated when the device is switched
on; then there is the ‘hold’ function for a current measurement; and a ‘save’ function for the last measurement. The hold button stops or restarts the continuous measurement function on the PLR 15, which features an inverted display with a backlight that displays the previous measure-ment, the current measurement, and the battery life.”
Berridge says that with its compact and easy-to-use design, the Bosch PLR 15 is the ideal tool for any measuring task. “The PLR 15 is especially for beginners, and encourages them to begin using laser range finders instead of traditional methods,” he concludes.
Enquiries: (011) 651-9600
The world’s first fully VDE tested magazine bit-holder from Wiha Premium tools has just been released worldwide. Now, instead of heavy screwdriver sets, up to 12 screw-drivers are now available in one handy tool. There are two models: The Magazine-Bitholder LiftUp electric and the Magazine-Bitholder LiftUp 70 and 25. “Searching for the right screwdriver is no longer a problem,” says Garry Lumpe, “one tool includes up to 12 different screwdriv-ers, saving space, time and money.” He says the unique slimBits are up to 33% slimmer than traditional bits – and this means that the user can now easily access deep-seated screws. The bits and the handle are VDE tested and provide double protection for the user. The new bits are 15mm shorter than the previous range of bits and show the maximum torque in Nm on the bit. When opened, the fan-shaped depot allows for easy access to the bits. The Magazine-Bitholder LiftUp 70 comes with six power bits while the LiftUp 25 holds 12 bits fixed in two levels. The LiftUps can be used as screwdrivers or for power tools.
Enquiries: (011) 396-4065
New bitholder holds 12 different screwdrivers
THE Blitzductor SP from a lightning and surge pro-tection expert, DEHN, is a powerful surge arrester that increases safety of data, as well as information technology and measuring and control systems.
The pluggable, multipole Blitzductor SP surge arrester is designed for different voltage ranges, thus ensuring protection of information technology installations and data systems, such as measuring and control circuits and bus systems.
Optionally available are two universal base parts, with or without signal disconnection when the protection module is removed.
Thanks to its modular arrester concept, all protec-tion modules of the Blitzductor SP series can be easily and quickly plugged into the base part.
The universal base parts optimise storage costs and ensure easy prewiring and service.
In addition, the DIN rail mounted Blitzductor SP – with a width of only 12mm – can protect up to four signal cores. It has a high discharge capacity up to 20kA (8/20µs) and a low voltage protection level and can thus be installed in conformity with the lightning protection zones concept at the bounda-ries from 0B - 2 and higher.
Designed for ‘hot swapping’, the protection mod-ule can be removed and safely plugged in during operation.
The module is secured in the base part by snap-ping it in (with an audible click), thus ensuring safe operation.
The arrester is vibration- and shock-tested up to a 30-fold acceleration of gravity.
Since no components of the protective circuit are situated in the base part, only the protection modules must be maintained.
Thanks to a wide range of accessories, such as elements for the earthing of unused lines or easy testing of signal cores, the Blitzductor SP arrester is particularly user-friendly.
Enquiries: (011 704-1487
Multipole surge arrester increases safety of data and IT
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distribution boards, switches, sockets and protection D17
Magnet has been appointed KZN distributor for Rittal, global leaders in enclosures and cooling systems. Brian Howarth (right), managing director of Magnet, with Steve Venter, managing director of Rittal South Africa, at Magnet’s Durban launch of the Rittal product line.
Enquiries: (031) 274-1998
New distributor appointed
object is possible when installed. The offer is avail-able in a smoky translucent finish to allow one to see into the box once installed, and a solid ABS plastic where one can’t see inside the box which prevents damage from sunlight or to hide the contents of the box.
“Veti enclosures are a simple, smart and cost effective solution for any installation,” says Evans.
Enquiries: (011) 872-5500
MAJOR Tech offers high quality, flame retardant electrical enclosures including DIN rail distribu-tion boards, a range of different sized IP55 junc-tion boxes and an array of IP65 weatherproof enclosures.
“The entire range of enclosures has CE accredi-tation and has also been tested to IEC standards, ensuring the standard set by Major Tech’s quality assurance,” says Rhodam Evans, VETI’s divisional manger. “And, in line with Major Tech’s policy of quality at an affordable price, the prices of these enclosures is very competitive.”
Evans says the DIN rail distribution boards are available in two different designs. “A robust IP65 surface mount offer intended for outdoor usage or where strength is a pre-requirement and an elegant IP20 flush mount and surface mount offer intended for indoor usage where aesthetics and ease of use are paramount.”
High quality flame retardant and weatherproof enclosures
All distribution boards are supplied with a removable earth/neutral bar, an adjustable DIN rail to ensure straight installation and multiple knock-outs in different shapes and sizes located on the top, bottom, sides, and back to cater for all installation types. The IP20 flush mount offer is available with either a sturdy ABS tray or a galvanised steel tray. The galvanised steel offer is supplied with wire mesh spot welded to the back for increased fixing support.
The IP55 junction boxes range from 50mm x 50mm round boxes up to 400mm x 350mm x 120mm, depending on installers’ specific requirements. The junction boxes are available with rubber glands or standard 20mm knock-outs, depending on the preference for the installation.
The IP65 weatherproof enclosures are com-pletely sealed with a rubber lining and tight ABS screws to ensure that no ingress of any foreign
A NEW surge protection product prevents power surges from pass-ing through power over Ethernet (POE) cables. The cables are self-powered and enable devices like security cameras to be installed without separate cables for data and power. The surge protector is distributed by Johannesburg-based power protection supplier PowerMan.
“We are seeing an increase in the usage of POE,” says Jonathan Palmer, managing director, PowerMan. “This is being driven by the security industry, which is massive in South Africa.
“Remote security cameras need surge protection, especially when they are installed outside, where they are exposed to lightning.”
While other products may be found in the market, consumers must make sure that they are capable of the fastest network speeds (1000M/b), if not they will slow the network down and sometimes cause packet losses.
The PowerMan product’s features are:• Single UTP and POE module.• 10/100/1000 BaseT surge
protection.• Complies with fast Ethernet
IEEE 802.3bc, IEC 11801 standards.
• Protective circuits for 4 x twisted pairs
• 1 000Mb/s data transfer time.• Built-in AIM technology for
isolation. Enquiries: (011) 794-3886
POE protected against surges
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
may 2014
D distribution boards, switches, sockets and protection18
ACDC Dynamics, the sole distributors of Terasaki in South Africa, offers a full range of the globally recognised Terasaki moulded case circuit breakers (MCCBs) and air circuit breakers (ACBs).
Rudy Raath, brand manager at ACDC Dynamics says the Terasaki TemBreak2 range of circuit break-ers is the “ultimate safety breaker”.
Raath says the range’s specifications exceed the international standards for safety. A direct opening action, which is recommended by IEC standards for machine safety, is a standard feature in most Terasaki models and ranges.
A unique safety lock system for plug-in MCCBs ensures that the MCCB cannot carry current while
“Ultimate” range of MCCBs and ACBsbeing fitted or removed, which is an essential safety feature for the operator and maintenance staff.
He says there are many reasons to use Tem-Break2 circuit breakers:Field installable accessoriesThere is one common accessory – one size ac-cessory fits all – from 12.5A to 1 600A that can be fitted by the switchboard builder or added by the end-user.
Users can now benefit from the common design of TemBreak2 MCCBs as shunt trips, auxiliary switches and alarm switches are uniform through-out the range and are easy to install in the field.
Safety lock The plug-in MCCB is locked to the base when the toggle is ‘on’. It cannot be removed unless the tog-gle is ‘off’ or has tripped. Symmetrical door cut-out patternsDoor cut-out patterns for external operating handles are symmetrical, even when breakers are mounted in opposite directions.Superior temperature performanceAll TemBreak2 MCCBs are fully rated for use at 50°C (ambient).Modular sizesThe range offers five frame sizes from 12.5A to 1 600A; for example, 125A to 160A; 250A to 400A;
630A to 800A; 1 000A to 1 250A; and 1 600A.Compact motorised changeoversThe mechanical interlock is installed on the front of the MCCB and is compatible with clip-on motor operators and integrated operating handles.Direct openingThe direct opening conforms to IEC 60204-1 safety standards for electrical-machinery and equipment compatibility.Visual safetyColoured indicators clearly display the ‘on’ and ‘off’ status.Flexibility Overload protection (Ir) is adjustable between 63% and 100% of the rating. Short-circuit protection is adjustable 4 to 13 x (In).Two-dial electronic overcurrent relayThis relay also has the same design throughout the range, covering ratings from 12.5A to 1 600A. Tera-saki has extended the range of the popular MCCBs with new models that have been developed from 800A to 1 600A.
The new 1 000A model is the same frame size as Terasaki’s existing XS800 (height = 273mm, width = 210mm, depth = 103mm).
In addition, the 125kA and 200kA breakers in an 800A frame are available in the new range. The Terasaki offering of plug-in versions of the new 800A frame models is available in South Africa.
This safety feature is important when isolating machinery and is indicated by the direct opening action symbol on the nameplate; only breakers made by Terasaki carry this safety mark.Independent testsTemBreak2 circuit breakers are tested in inde-pendent laboratories as well as in Tersasaki’s own laboratory in Osara, Japan. Terasaki circuit break-ers are approved by the leading marine approval organisations such as KEMA, ASTA, Bureau Veritas and Lloyds of London. ACDC’s technical specialists can assist with the selection of the most appropri-ate solution for installations.
For more information, contact Rudy Raath at [email protected] or visit www.acdc.co.za to view the complete range of Terasaki circuit breakers.
Enquiries: (010) 202-3300
THE new Rifline complete industrial relay system from Phoenix Contact ranges from a slim 6.2mm coupling relay to a relay that is as a small contactor replacement. The most powerful relay can switch voltages up to 40V. The universally pluggable relay system ensures high machine and system availability.
The relay system is based on Phoenix Contact’s push-in technology, with which wiring is done by inserting the wire directly into the clamping sleeve, which significantly shortens the installation time. This technology is already in use in several products, such as the PLC-Interface relay series and the Clipline complete terminal block system.
The usage of bridging material from the existing terminal block product range enables simple current distribution. A few of the relay modules in the series can be upgraded to a timer relay with the pluggable timer module. The multifunctional plug-in module offers four time ranges and three timer functions. The relays are offered as a complete module for conventional input voltages. This modular component system enables the implementa-tion of custom solutions.
Enquiries: (011) 801-8200
Modular system for custom solution
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
may 2014
distribution boards, switches, sockets and protection D19
Mike da Silva (owner of Umhlanga’s Legrand Concept Store); Johan Bosch (sales manager, Legrand); Aman-tha Maharaj (owner of Umhlanga’s Legrand Concept Store) and Luk Ivens (general manager, Legrand SA) at the launch of the first KwaZulu-Natal ‘Legrand Concept Store’, which opened in Umhlanga recently. The store is part of Legrand’s drive to boost its spe-cialist electrical solutions offering to contractors, architects, consultants and interior designers, as well as the end user. “Legrand Concept Stores, which are owned and managed by carefully selected partners, are dedicated showrooms that display a wide range
of Legrand products, from high end quality domestic switches and sockets, to sophisticated building man-agement systems,” says Luk Ivens, general manager, Legrand SA. “The new Umhlanga specialist store also showcases CCTV and access control systems, power equipment, emergency lighting, home automation devices and cable management systems. Technical experts are always on hand to advise on the finest electrical solution for every installation – whether it is for an industrial, agricultural, commercial or domestic environment.”
Enquiries: (011) 444-7971
New concept for dedicated showrooms
SLIMLINE Compact from Crabtree is a new, slim, three-pin plug top that is an alternative to the conventional large and bulky design that has been used in the past
The new plug top is offered with a complemen-tary range of multiplugs and adaptors, without having to replace existing wall sockets. Wall sockets incorporating the new Slimline format are also available in the Crabtree range of switches and sockets.
Both the unearthed two-pin and the three-pin earthed standards can be accommodated in sockets and adaptors, reducing the need for a multitude of different adaptors. The three-pin plug can be wired to allow the cord to exit either the top or the bottom of the plug top, ideal for tight spaces and behind furniture installations or where unsightly twisting of the cord is to be avoided. By replacing the moulded earthed plug with the com-pact three-pin, greater flexibility in the office and at home is possible.
Compact SANS 164-2 plug and adaptor available
K-SUN’S photoluminescent glow-in-the-dark tape (Photolum) is a disaster prevention product used to mark items or emergency exits that may be required during a power failure. These include flash lights, tools, back-up power generators, fire extinguishers, emer-gency evacuation route indication, and similar equipment required in a power failure situation.
Providing luminance of the highest level, Photolum tape pro-vides excellent long-term performance with an afterglow lasting four to five hours after the light source is removed. Its high flame resistance withstands temperatures of up to 215°C. The light-stor-ing material withstands ultraviolet rays and has excellent weath-erproof performance making it suitable for long-term outdoor applications as well in temperatures up to 50°C.
K-Sun’s tape works with K-Sun printers such as the BEE3/3+, GreenMachine and PEARLabel 360. The tape is also designed for safety applications requiring luminous markings in stairwells, exits, doorways, handrails, and steps.
Exit route marking systems may include various informational labels such as directional arrows or symbols and signs to provide additional guidance to occupants. Labels should be placed at low levels to indicate the location of windows, doors, fire extinguishers and stairwells. Emergency exits, fire fighting equipment, critical shutdown procedures, contact names and phone numbers should all be easily identifiable in the dark.
Photolum has a chloride-free PET film and does not include any radioactive substances. It has successfully passed strict combus-tion tests such as the ASTME 162 for surface flammability and the ASTME 662 smoke density test.
K-Sun is represented locally by Aspercon.Enquiries: (011) 918-8340
Safety glow-in-the-dark tape for power failures
IAN McKechnie, director of specialist consult-ing and forensic engineers Innopro, says, “A proactive and systematic approach to lightning safety is essential to mitigate the risks to people, communities and animals posed by lightning. Data reportedly indicates that there are up to 100 lightning related fatalities each year in South Africa, with a reported probable injury rate of many times that.”
He advises that “an integrated and holistic approach is essential to ensure both lightning
Proactive and systematic approach needed for lightning safetysafety of people, as well as protection of property, plant and equipment”.
“An effective and properly considered lightning safety and protection plan lies at the core of this approach”, says McKechnie. “Such a plan must consider the risks, and the resultant safety and protection approach applicable to the particular situation, and must be integrated with other related plans and policies related SHEQ, OHS, maintenance and engineering, and the like, depending on the particular circumstances.”
He adds that the risks to be considered are not just lightning exposure risks, but also those relat-ed to, for example, maintenance and operational factors and the consequence of non-compliance or system failure.
McKechnie says that Innopro has developed a structured and integrated approach to lightning safety and protection. “Such a structured and integrated approach ensures that a systematic process of assessment and evaluation is followed by a sound design and implementation stage. It
is also important that the ongoing main-tenance of the system is properly planned and implemented, to ensure the ongoing performance of the installation.” He adds that the approach is applicable across vari-ous sectors, including aviation, telecommu-nications, mining, petrochemical (oil and gas) plants and other infrastructure, as well as educational, sporting and agricultural
With the SABS mark of approval, the easy-to-use plug offers significant safety features. The live and neutral pins have extended sleeves and the socket has shutters on both contacts. Conventionally, the earth pin activates the shutter mechanism for all contacts, making the system susceptible to tampering. The compact three-pin
plug design addresses this with a unique shutter system, extended 15mm pin sleeve and a recessed socket.
The Slimline standard complies with SANS 164-2 and will be phased into new homes in the com-ing years. The Slimline Compact range is easily identifiable by its distinc-tive ‘Compact 3 Pin’ logo displayed on packaging and at point of sale.
Enquiries: (011) 396-8000
facilities, as some examples.He says assignments and projects are performed
or supervised by registered, highly qualified and experienced professional engineers, which ensures that their clients benefit from a uniquely high level of expertise in this sector. “Our clients can be secure in the knowledge that they are dealing with a team of professionals who can provide them with objec-tive and sound advice and solutions, irrespective of the solution implications,” he says.
He explains that, as specialist consulting and forensic engineers, and not contractors, they are often able to include the client’s own personnel and contractors in implementing the solution, thereby ensuring knowledge transfer and ‘ownership’ of the implementation, as well as effective use of existing resources. “This can have huge benefits in terms of ongoing maintenance and integrity of the solution” he concludes.
Enquiries: (012) 663-4804
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
may 2014
D distribution boards, switches, sockets and protection20
Certificates of Compliance – to issue or not to issue
Mark Palmer, Gauteng Electrical Inspection Authority
MANY registered persons – some in despair – frequently approach me when requested by some of their clients to issue ‘partial’ Certificates of Compliance when properties with electrical installations are sold.
This issue is made more complex by the provisions of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 (The Act) and the Electrical Installation Regulations 2009 (EIR).
This confusion is primarily as a result of not understanding the ele-ment of “the transfer of responsibility” contained in both these pieces of legislation.
However, Registered Persons should not confuse these provisions, relating to the shift of responsibility between users and the responsibility of
Registered Persons, when it comes to compliance. Let’s deal with the provi-sions of the EIR first…
Regulation 2, sub-Regulation 3 states: “Where there is a written undertaking between a user or lessor and a lessee whereby the responsibility for an electrical installation has been transferred to the lessee, the lessee shall be responsible for that installation as if he or she were the user or lessor.”
To understand the application of this Regulation, it is important to discuss the responsibility of the user or lessor within the framework of the same Regulations when it comes to Certifi-cates of Compliance, i.e. Regulation 7, sub-Regulation 1: “Subject to the provi-sions of sub-Regulation (3), every user or lessor of an electrical installation, as
the case may be, shall have a valid Certificate of Compliance for that installation in the form of Annexure 1, which shall be accompanied by a test report in the format approved by the chief inspector, in respect of every such electrical installation.”
The intent of the legislator here is quite clear: the user or lessor shall have a valid Certificate of Compliance for the entire installa-tion, however, this responsibility may be transferred to a lessee by written agreement. Therefore, it is evident that this agreement does not apply to the sale of properties containing electrical installations, only to agreements between les-sor and lessees.
To issue a ‘partial’ Certificate of Compliance linked to such an agreement does not relieve any of the afore-mentioned parties’ responsibilities to have a Certifi-cate of Compliance for the entire installation. This contravention by the lessor and/or lessee exac-erbates the Registered Person’s
position when it is linked to such an agreement. As will be discussed later, it does not negate any responsibility of the Registered Person notwithstand-ing having a copy of such agree-ment, as he is not party to such an agreement and not referred to by the relevant Regulation.
However, when dealing with the sale of properties that contain electrical in-stallations, the Act must be consulted, with special reference to Section 22 linked to Section 10.4:Section 22- Sale of certain articles prohibitedSubject to the provisions of Section 10 (4), if any requirement (including any health and safety standard) in respect of any article, substance, plant, machinery or health and safety equipment or for the use or application thereof has been prescribed, no person shall sell or market in any manner whatsoever such article, substance, plant, machinery or health and safety equipment unless it complies with that requirement.Section 10.4Where a person designs, manufactures, imports, sells or supplies an article or substance for or to another person and that other person undertakes in writing to take specified steps sufficient to en-sure, as far as is reasonably practicable, that the article or substance will comply with all prescribed requirements and will be safe and without risks to health when properly used, the undertaking shall have the effect of relieving the first mentioned person from the duty im-posed upon him by this section to such an extent as may be reasonable having regard to the terms of the undertaking.
In reading these sections of the Act, we see again that provision is only made for the transferability of the onus for compliance, and not compli-ance itself.
Where Registered Persons now
make critical errors in the scope of this legislation, is to become embroiled in the agreements themselves or to try and include these agreements in ‘partial’ Certificates of Compliance, where there is no reference to them in such agreements.
The responsibility of Registered Per-sons is clearly outlined in the EIR Regu-lation 9, sub-Regulation 3: If at any time prior to the issuing of a Certificate of Compliance any fault or defect is de-tected in any part of the electrical instal-lation, the Registered Person shall refuse to issue such certificate until that fault or defect has been rectified. Provided that if such fault or defect in the opinion of the Registered Person constitutes an imme-diate danger to persons in a case where electricity is already supplied, he or she shall forthwith take steps to disconnect the supply to the circuit in which the fault or defect was detected and notify the chief inspector thereof.
Furthermore the issue of a ‘partial’ Certificate of Compliance has further ramifications for the Registered Person in the event of an incident occurring at such installation, in terms of Section 9.2 of the Act:Section 9.2- General duties of employers and self-employed persons to persons other than their employees“Every self-employed person shall con-duct his undertaking in such a manner as to ensure, as far as is reasonably prac-ticable, that he and other persons who may be directly affected by his activities are not thereby exposed to hazards to their health or safety.”
The question arises in each case as to the decision of “which portion of the installation” to issue a ‘partial’ Certificate of Compliance, which again the EIR is going to prohibit. The only issue remaining to be discussed is where Registered Persons are involved
in additions, modifications and alterations to existing installations where Certifi-cates of Compliance may or
may not exist. Here the EIR is specific that the Registered Person must issue a Certificate of Compliance for the work he has done, i.e. Regulation 9, sub-Reg-ulation 4, which states: “Any person who undertakes to do electrical installation work shall ensure that a valid Certificate of Compliance is issued for that work.”
This indeed will be a ‘partial’ Cer-tificate of Compliance, which may be linked to an existing Certificate of Compliance, which has already covered the other parts of the installation. In this instance, Registered Persons are obligated to issue such Certificates of Compliance. In the absence of an existing Certificate of Compliance, and where any non-compliance in those parts of the installation constitutes an immediate danger to persons in a case where electricity is already supplied, the Registered Person, however, has further obligations to take steps to disconnect those parts and notify the chief inspector.
My advice, therefore, is that where sellers are faced with financial con-straints in obtaining valid Certificates of Compliance in the sale process (which they are, in any event, supposed to already have), let an agreement in terms of the Act Section 10.4 be used for transfer purposes in place of the Certificate of Compliance.
Do not issue ‘partial’ Certificates of Compliance and become embroiled in such agreements, and potentially contravene legislation.
In cases where lessors and lessees are involved, again prescribed agreements are only applicable to these parties and not Registered Persons.
Registered Persons may not issue ‘partial’ Certificates of Compliance where faults and defects still exist on installations, but in cases where addi-tions, alterations or modifications are made, they may issue Certificates of Compliance for that work. In the case of the remaining faults and defects, these matters must be reported to the Chief Inspector.
Denver Technical Products now offer a current probe for every current measurement ap-plication. Pictured here are rigid clamp-on probes (CTs) for measurement of ac/dc current from mA up to 7 500A. Flexible Rogowski probes with integrators are now available to measure current up to 40kA with a frequency range of from 20Hz to 1mHz, depending on model.
Enquiries: (011) 626-2023
Current probes for every current measurement application
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
may 2014
E energy efficiency22
THE Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Munici-pality (NMBMM) has scooped an international award for its energy-efficient high mast lights in Walmer Township. The city will be awarded R1.1-m in prize money to roll out the project in other disadvantaged areas.
Ben Martins, the Minister of Energy, unveiled the project on 8 March when he switched on the lights of Walmer Township. Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality’s acting executive director of electricity and energy, Peter Neilson, says the award is “an acknowledgement that the
Energy efficient lighting project scoops international awardMetro is one of the world’s first to co-develop an energy-efficient high mast light”.
The project is a joint initiative between Spec-trum Utility Management (SUM), KMW – a South Korean-based listed company and Envirolight, its South African distributor.
“Spectrum Utility Management is a special-ist municipal service provider providing fully integrated utility management solutions that are ‘Smart City’ derived, to several municipali-ties throughout South Africa,” explains Anthony Hawley, national sales and marketing manager at SUM.
He says that, following the introduction of KMW to the NMBMM by John Rice, the CEO of Envirolight, the NMBMM invited the CEO of KMW, Dr Kim, to visit South Africa.
“Dr Kim personally inspected the lighting provided by high mast lights in Walmer Town-ship and, after he had seen for himself the unsafe situation caused by the poor lighting, he undertook to develop a LED high mast lighting solution that would provide excellent lighting, reduce the excessive energy consumption and high maintenance costs of the existing instal-lation and provide a safer environment for the residents at night,” explains Hawley, adding, “hence this project in the NMBMM is the first of its kind globally.”
He says the project solution has achieved “far superior lighting” when compared to the exist-ing high pressure sodium lights. “The superior colour rendering of the light increases visibility considerably, and this will make the township a safer place for residents. “And, by utilising highly efficient reflector technology, the Giga Tera light is able to provide uniform light over a large area,” says Hawley.
Hawley says the existing 1 000W luminaires consume 1 150W of energy and are to be replaced with 400W LED fittings, thus generat-ing a saving of 750W (65%). In times of critical power problems, this will have a marked effect on the peak hour usage of the high masts and hence a large scale rollout will have a significant effect on the NMBMM’s power usage.
“The 65% saving in energy consumption and vast maintenance savings due to the extended guarantees and life expectancy of the LED lumi-naires make this a very important project,” says
Hawley, adding that the importance of this project is underscored by the fact that NMBMM has been awarded first prize in an international energy efficiency competi-tion in France.”
“The project is one of true service delivery. The lives of the Walmer Township community have been greatly improved because the lighting has provided addi-tional safety and security and, at the same time, the energy load on the grid has been greatly reduced.”
Hawley says the project solution has fur-ther been enhanced by the fully integrated management system that will provide the NMBMM with integrated reporting and management capabilities, which allow for the remote management, measurement and maintenance scheduling of the new high mast lighting. “Another benefit is that the new LED lighting re-strikes immediate-ly after a power dip or failure, whereas the high pressure sodium lights take almost 10 minutes to reach full power.”
Hawley says a high level South African delegation travelled to South Korea to visit the KMW manufacturing plants. “The visit strengthened the relationship between Spectrum Utility Management, KMW and Envirolight and discussions are now taking place with a view to establishing a local KMW manufacturing facility in South Africa, in order to supply local and interna-tional markets.
Enquiries: (012) 991-3122
Minister of Energy, Ben Martins with SUM’s Sylvia Ravhutulu (business development manager) and Anthony Hawley (national sales and marketing manager).
The MAHA 400W LED (front view) that was used in lighting up the Walmer Township.
ARTsolar has been awarded a contract for the supply of photovoltaic (PV) modules in the government’s R100-billion Round 2 of the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Programme (REIPPP).
“This contract – which is the first in the REIPPP to be awarded to a majority South African-owned (PV) module manufacturer – is an exciting development for ARTsolar,”
says Mark Walsh, manag-ing director, ARTsolar. “These PV modules, which are being as-sembled at the ARTsolar plant in KwaZulu-Natal, form part of the 417,1MW PV component of Round 2 of the REIPPP.
“The company is committed to provid-ing long term solutions to the development of the renewable energy industry, in support of the South African Government’s goal’s for the roll-out of renewable energy generation capacity and the development of a local manufac-turing complex. PV technology, with long term cost efficient features, is a reliable and proven source of electricity, which is environmentally-friendly.
“In keeping with the REIPPP, where the creation of job opportunities, local content and community development remain essential ingre-dients of the programme, important considerations at ARTsolar are maximising local content of the modules, black economic empower-ment, community employment, environmental protection and the manufacture of quality products in South Africa.”
ARTsolar, which has made a substantial investment in the latest equipment, adheres to stringent international quality specifications and has implemented a certified training programme for the manu-facturing team.
ARTsolar has teamed up in this REIPPP project with a leading global PV specialist that supplies modules and equipment all over the world. Astronergy, part of the Chint Group, is a large scale producer of PV modules in mainland China.
South Africa will benefit from the combined technologies, skills and experience of this team, also taking advantage of the successes of solar power projects implemented around the world.
Through the REIPPP initiative, the Government aims to procure and install 1,45GW of PV capacity by the end of 2014.
Enquiries: (031) 705-7162
PV modules’ contract awarded to local company
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
may 2014
functionality avail-able in 230Vac-models, and stack-able up to 8kW. Conext ComBox communication deviceOperators of Conext XW and SW systems can now remotely monitor yield performance using devices of their choice, such as personal computers, tablet devices, or building management systems using the new Conext ComBox. Installers can change the settings of Conext devices during commissioning and react 24/7 to system alerts remotely.
A Modbus interface links Conext devices with sophisticated third party software packages and building management systems. Conext ComBox is compatible with Xanbus protocol devices.
• Submit the M&V Professional’s report to SAN-EDI. SANEDI will furnish you with the approval for continuance. On the successful completion of the tax allowance approval process SANEDI will issue a formal energy savings certificate. The certificate is then submitted to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) together with the claim for the tax allowance as part of the customary tax returns.
The systems in place have been used over the last four years for the 12i tax incentive and already over 60 projects are registered for 12L and being processed. The Energy Training Foundation (EnTF) has been training and Certifying Measurement and Verification Professionals (CMVPs) according to EVO and IPMVP under the licence of the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) in South Africa for the past eight years.
Editorial supplied by The Energy Training Founda-tion (EnTF).
For more information: www.saneditax.org.za andwww.energytrainingfoundation.co.za
AS an end-of-year bonus to the energy efficiency industry the long awaited ‘Regulations in terms of Section 12L of the Income Tax Act, 1962, on the allowance for energy efficiency savings’ was prom-ulgated and came into effect on 1 November 2013.
The allowance is for the purpose of determining the taxable income derived by any person from carrying on any trade in respect of any year of as-sessment ending before 1 January 2020.
It stipulates a deduction must be allowed from that person’s income for energy efficiency savings by that person in respect of that year of assessment. Since the promulgation of 12L, many questions have been raised and this is due to the unknown territory South Africa is now entering as new markets open up to stimulate energy ef-ficiency. Only through participation and involve-ment will the market evolve and grow towards solid structures and processes that can support future similar incentives.
One of the most pertinent questions asked is: “Are renewables to be – or not to be – allowed as part of the 12L energy efficiency tax incentive?”
The answer should quite logically be: Energy efficiency = demand side; renewable energy = gen-eration side, therefore not part of energy efficiency, but part of alternative ways of generating energy – which by the way should also be used efficiently, like all energy resources.
12L is an incentive for using the energy which is generated from sources that are harmful to the climate more efficiently. However, renewables probably deserve such an incentive in its own right, but it is excluded from Section 12L. Regulation 6 excludes renewablesRegulation 6 of 12 L depicts that a person may not receive the allowance “in respect of energy gener-ated from renewable sources or co-generation, which means energy from waste and combined heat and power, other than energy generated from waste heat recovery”.
The renewable sources excluded are listed as biomass, geothermal, hydro, ocean currents, solar, tidal waves or wind.
Waste heat recovery is defined as “utilising waste heat or underutilised energy generated during an industrial process”. Therefore only energy gener-ated using waste heat recovery will be considered.
One exception to the rule for renewablesBut 12L does make an exception through the inclu-sion of Captive Power Plants which encourages self-generation on a large scale. Generating energy for your own use is seen as a Captive Power Plant and an allowance can only be claimed should the “kWh or the equivalent kWh of energy output of the captive power plant” in respect of an assess-ment year is “more than 35% of the kWhs or the equivalent kWhs of energy input in respect of that year of assessment”.
The definition in the Regulation stipulates: “A cap-tive power plant means where generation of energy takes place for the purposes of the use of that energy solely by the person generating that energy”. This is in-terpreted as the self-generated energy, albeit from whichever source, is not being fed into the grid, but used within the reticulation system of the respec-tive project or plant for which the energy efficiency allowance is being claimed.
It is an incentive to up the implementation of self-generation in excess of 35% of the requirements of
Eenergy efficiency 23
SCHNEIDER Electric Solar Business has launched a complete range of products for residential, small commercial and off-grid solar and backup power. These products arrived locally for the Southern African market at the beginning of 2014 and reiterate Schneider Electric’s commitment to the solar industry.
“Schneider Electric is fully committed to be a leader in the solar industry. At a time of heavy turbulences in the solar market, we accelerate our investment to bring best-in-class products to the market” said Laurent Bataille, senior vice-president, for the Solar Business of Schnei-der Electric
The new solutions for residential, small com-mercial, carports and decentralised PV plants include:Conext RL inverter The Conext RL is a flexible and efficient residential single-phase transformerless solar inverter available in 3, 4 and 5kW power rat-ings. The Conext RL has industry leading peak conversion efficiency of 97.5% and is specially designed to maximise yields for a wide range of rooftops of detached houses and multiple dwellings. Conext TL inverter Schneider Electric has expanded the popular Conext TL line of inverters to include 8 and 10kW power levels – the full product portfolio is now available in 8, 10, 15 and 20kW models.
Complete range of products for off-grid solar and battery backup market
Renewable energy and the 12L energy efficiency tax incentivea project or plant.
So, in effect renewable energy that is generated for own use and which constitutes in excess of 35% of the kWhs of energy input in the year of claiming, will be allowed. Clarifying the matter, Barry Breden-kamp, senior manager: energy efficiency at SANEDI says, “Captive Power Plants is the one exception to the rule where RE technology may be used.”
SANEDI is the body that evaluates energy savings reports and issues tax certificates to organisations for submission to SARS to claim section 12i and 12L tax incentives and invites organisations to pursue the energy efficiency tax incentive. Follow these steps to make use of the 12L incentive:• Appoint a Measurement and Verification Profes-
sional, from a SANAS accredited M&V Inspection Body, to compile a report containing a computa-tion of the energy efficiency savings in respect of that person for that year of assessment. Inspec-tion bodies are listed on the SANAS website.
• Register with SANEDI for energy efficiency tax al-lowance claims at www.saneditax.org.za.
The Conext TL transformerless grid-tie solar inverter is the ideal solution for commercial buildings, carports and decentralised power plants up to the MW range. It has peak efficiency great-er than 98% with a wide voltage range (350 - 850V) to maximise the ROI. Conext Monitor 20 The Conext Monitor 20 is a compact and simple remote monitoring and control solution for small PV plants up to 20kW. The easy to configure Conext Monitor 20 allows PV plant owners to monitor the operating performance of the inverter using a web portal regardless of the location. Conext Designer The Conext Designer is a PV system design tool that supports installers in optimising their system designs. The tool allows installers to select a Conext range of inverters, a wide variety of panels and roof orientation in order to build designs aimed at maximising energy harvest.
New solutions for off-grid solar and backup power include:Conext SW inverter/chargerThe Conext SW inverter/charger delivers new value and a new price point to the off-grid solar and backup power marketplace.
The Conext SW inverter/charger is available in 2.5 and 4kW power ratings, and is a pure sine wave, inverter/charger system with switchable 50/60 Hz
Conext XW inverter/chargerAdaptable and scaleable, the Conext XW inverter/charger is the one solution for global grid-interactive and off-grid, residential and com-mercial, solar and backup power applications. The Conext XW inverter/charger has also been available to order since the beginning of the year in 4, 4.5 and 6kW power ratings.
Enquiries: (011) 254-6400
sparksELECTRICAL NEWS
may 2014
L lighting24
A CASE study at Iziko Museum at Cape Town’s famous South Af-rican Museum conducted for Eurolux by Phil Hammond of Blair Hammond & Associates showed that a switch to LED lighting products resulted in a 93% energy saving for the museum.
“We conducted an initial test with Eurolux’s ALT LED lighting products in the ‘Stone and Bone’ exhibition area of the museum during March 2011,” explains Hammond. “This is a fascinating area where the exhibits depict the creatures that roamed the earth prior to the dinosaur era.” Based on those findings, at the beginning of 2012, the museum decided to upgrade the lighting in the Mammal and the Mineral exhibitions to ALT LED lighting products.
The mammal section was completed during May 2012. “Not only was the change to ALT LED lighting products a resound-
The difference between the old halogen lighting (left) and the new LED lighting (right) is clearly discernable as it brings out the natural colour of the polar bear in this exhibit at the Iziko Museum in Cape Town.
Number of display units completed : 11
No. of lighting units used
66 31
Wattage of lighting units per unit
100 15
Total wattage 6 600 465
Burn hours per day 24 24
Consumption per day kWh
158 11
Consumption per week kWh
1 109 78
Consumption per month
4 806 335
Energy cost R1.41 per kWh
R6 776.46 R472.35
Expected energy saving per month
93.00% 4 471
Hammond says a similar result was achieved in the mineral exhibition area with an average of 93% en-ergy saving. “More importantly, the visual appearance of the exhibition display units was greatly enhanced and the visitors’ visual emotional experiences im-proved by about 50%.”
Glen Fouten, the Iziko Museum display technician says the lighting has made a “tremendous difference to the exhibits, saying that it is “very important” that the correct use of good lighting is used for exhibits and displays in natural history museums and galler-ies.
“The new lighting brings out the colours of the exhibits that weren’t there before and visitors and stakeholders are very impressed. In the days before the LED installation, we always used halogen lumi-naires but we had constant problems with them, especially the colour temperature and quality. It was difficult to read the inscriptions and to even see the objects correctly. Since the LEDs were installed, everything now is perfect.
Furthermore, with the LED lighting there are no UV rays and no colour degradation,” he explains, adding that this affords a certain amount of protection for the museum’s valuable exhibits.
Fouten says that since the LEDs were installed, there has been no need to replace any lamps un-like halogen lamps that had to be replaced at least monthly. “This is why we are moving away from halogens and towards LEDs,” he explains.
Fouten believes that LEDs are “the way forward” for museums and art galleries to maintain the integrity of the exhibits, save energy and reduce maintenance.
He says he has discussed the advantages and the superior effects of LED luminaires with the museums directors. “They now understand that other museums need to catch up on this technology,” says Fouten.
ALT lighting products are available exclusively from Eurolux.
Enquiries: (021) 528-8400
New LED lighting at Iziko Museum brings bears to ‘life’
ing success from a visual experience for visitors, an excellent level of energy efficiency was also achieved,” says Hammond. “There were, on aver-age, eight 100W lamps in a display unit and these were replaced with three BR30 15W Natural White 60° lamps, which used the same track fittings.”
The table below illustrates the result:
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Llighting 25
THE BEKA LEDnova, a locally designed and manufactured luminaire, offers optimal photometric performance and high reliability to reduce energy consumption and mainte-nance in all types of lighting applications, says Beka’s Daniel Kasper.
“It is designed to replace conventional light sources of up to 100W HPS and MH lamps whilst achieving great energy savings and a long useful lifetime even in environments with high vibration – setting a new benchmark in lighting for industrial applications.”
He says this industrial luminaire is ideal for security light-
LEDs for industrial applications
ing applications, delivering instant white light with a high colour rendering index and 100% light output. “The slim and unique design optimises the thermal operating en-vironment around the LEDs, facilitating low maintenance over its long lifetime,” explains Kasper.
“The BEKA LEDnova is designed to ac-commodate various mounting options, as well as hazardous (Zones 2 and 21/22) and emergency lighting applications,” he says.
“The BEKA LEDnova has also been de-signed to operate LED light sources of up to 88W in an ambient temperature environ-ment of at least 35°C – without reducing the LED lifetime of 15 years – at a lumen depreciation of not more than 20% (L80).”
He explains that the correlated colour temperature (CCT) of the LEDs is neutral white (5 000K) and is also available with a warm white CCT.
The intelligent design of the BEKA LEDnova makes LED luminaires particularly suitable for the challenging African environ-ment. Electronic temperature monitoring prevents overheating of the LEDs and power supply within the LED compartment (Ther-miX). To maximise the reliability of the LEDs, the photometric engine and control gear compartment are completely sealed to IP 66. This ensures that the photometric per-formance is maintained over time (LEDSafe).
“The BEKA LEDnova offers flexible combinations of LED arrays, combined with various photometric distributions (Len-soFlex2) and dimming control options to further maximise energy savings and reduce maintenance costs,” says Kasper.
Numerous options are available, some of which are an incorporated daylight sensor; surge protection up to 20kV/20kA; control-lable stand-alone dimming; high-impact acrylic (IK 10) protector; and an emergency version.
Enquiries: (011) 238-0067
The XB-H LED is the brightest discrete in Cree’s high density (HD) class of LEDs, delivering a break-through combination of lumen output and ef-ficacy in a small package. The XB-H LED brings the lighting-class performance of the XP-G2 LED into a package that is 50% smaller. Delivering more than 500 lumens at 1.5A, 25°C, in a 2.45 x 2.45-mm pack-age, the Cree XB-H LED can enable luminaires that use the same-size-footprint XB-D LED to triple their light output at the same power consumption
Enquiries: (011) 923-9600
High density discrete LED
Elno Ooshuizen (N.Cherry Electrical) with Dr Marthinus Smit (Shuttle Lighting) at the IESSA Johannesburg Branch’s monthly meeting in North-riding in April. Dr Smit gave a most interesting and enlightening presentation to IESSA members in which he discussed the effects that electromag-netic interference has on LED lights and dimmers. He cited an example of a motor dealership that experienced problems with new cars’ radios that would not work. After an intensive investigation, it was found that the electromagnetic interference from incorrectly selected LED lights and dimmers in the showromm were the cause. Once compliant LEDs and dimmers were installed, the problems were all resolved.
Enquiries: 082 465 2299
Electro magnetic interference (EMI) in a nutshell
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IN the electrical and lighting industry, the expression, “It looks good and it works!” could describe many of the installations that are handed over to property owners and it is specifically applicable to many new or refurbished lighting installations.
Searching for more efficient light sources when retro-fitting existing
“It looks good and it works!”
IESSA Technical News by Connie Jonker, IESSA Technical Liaison
PASSIVE infrared (PIR) sensors respond to the thermal radiation of the human body within the detection area so any lights or any other electrical appliances fitted with PIR sensors will switch on when the presence of a human body is detected. And, when there is no human presence in the coverage area, the light – or appliance – will switch off automatically.
“By installing Major Tech motion sensors with PIR, considerable energy will be saved as the lights will only switch on when presence in the area is detected,” says Werner Grobbelaar. “Therefore savings can be huge in large facilities such as warehouses.”
He says the Major Tech PIR sensor range includes the PIR31 mini infrared motion sensor, the PIR32 and PIR33 360° infrared motion sensors, the PIR34 180° infrared motion sensor, the PIR36 360° ceiling infrared motion sensor and the PIR43 mini alarm. “The PIR37 3 000W 270° corner infrared motion sensor is available in white and black.”
“As lighting is the third-biggest energy user in most homes, it’s probably the easiest way to cut costs”, says Grobbelaar.
He adds that Major Tech has an extensive range of
energy efficient security lights for homes and gardens that will provide excellent lighting while saving on elec-tricity and the associated costs.
“The Major Tech security light range includes the SL70L 180˚ 117 LED security light and the SL224L 180˚ 2 x 24W CFL security light with LED night light. “The wall-mountable SL70L has 117 LED lights that provide maximum illumination for domestic and business use. It has an adjustable PIR sensor that detects motion within 180˚ degrees and up to 12m away from the sensor.
It features adjustable lux and a timer that can be set from five seconds to four minutes,” he says. “And the SL70L features an on-and-off function and the plastic casing is weatherproof to IP44 standards.”
The SL224L features the same functions as the SL70L but works with two 24W compact fluorescent bulbs and 10 x 0.07W LEDs for the night light that works when the PIR sensor is inactive.
“These security lights all offer great illumination to deter trespassers and, at the same time, save more on that electricity account than conventional security lights” says Grobbelaar.
Enquiries: (011) 872-5500
Energy saving PIR controls for lighting
installations often leads to what I would describe as ‘amazing’ choices of lamps and luminaires – many of which would be ideal for a disco but certainly would not create an acceptable environment for a workplace. Often these installations are conducted without any photometric evaluation of the new luminaire and lamp combination and consideration of
the effect that such a change could have on a particular environment.
It seems that with the current decline in job opportunities, many people now need to find new ways to earn an in-come. The lighting industry, in particular, has attracted many self-trained newcom-ers. New, efficient light sources and the need for energy saving has created a bur-
geoning retro-fit market, which needs to be supported by better training opportunities in order to assist those newcomers obtain the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure they deliver an acceptable quality of work.
The design of lighting installations has no clearly defined rules; it needs the combined skills of an engineer, archi-tect, interior designer and electrician as well as a thorough understanding of all the aspects of a good lighting installa-tion and the requirements for specific environments. These skills are seldom found in one person and this adds to the complexity of training competent lighting practitioners.
In recent years, there seems to me to have been a drastic change in the com-petence of people working in all sectors of industry. Traditionally, it was almost the rule that training had to be under the supervision of an artisan or compe-tent mentor, often in a well-structured apprenticeship or on-the-job training in an acceptable industrial environment.
Experience gained in the appropriate fields and attendance at recognised theoretical courses are the basic re-quirements for anyone to be regarded as competent. The present status in many sectors in South Africa is of great concern to me, specifically in the lighting field where training opportuni-ties and gaining experience through mentorships are very limited and, with a few exceptions, there is no training in lighting offered by tertiary institutions.
The efforts made by some associa-tions and the larger engineering and manufacturing companies to develop their staff through in-house training and other short courses needs to be commended. It is unfortunate that many of those who gain such training and experience do not always get the recognition that they deserve.
For many years, IESSA has offered
a range of short courses and a winter school where training in many aspects of lighting is offered. A new addition to these IESSA courses is a photometry course, which will be presented on 3 and 4 June at the SABS Lighting Tech-nology Laboratory. This course is aimed at providing a better understanding of the measurement of the photometric characteristics and performance of lamps and luminaires. This course will give lighting designers and those who develop luminaires hands-on experi-ence in the use of measuring equip-ment and a better insight into the methods applied to determine efficacy, efficiency and intensity distribution of luminaires and light sources.
With many lighting companies invest-ing in the establishment of their own in-house photometric test facilities, this additional IESSA course will certainly assist in developing the skills of lighting personnel.
The class is limited to 15 attendees so it is advisable to book timeously through the IESSA office.
Enquiries: (011) 476-4171
High density LED arrays open up new designs and applications for LED lighting
THREE new LED arrays from Cree redefine what is possible for LED lighting in high-intensity applications.
The Cree XLamp CXA2590, CXA1850 and CXA1310 high-density LED arrays double the light output of existing standard density CXA LED arrays without increasing the size. This unparalleled increase in lumen density delivers new levels of light intensity, which enables the complete replacement of ceramic metal-halide (CMH) light sources, expands the possibilities of LED spotlights and enables applications that could not be addressed by previous LED technologies.
“The beauty of these new high-density LED arrays from Cree is that they are helping us bring products to the market that currently don’t exist,” says Mike Wang, vice president, lighting engineering, Edison Price Lighting. “Never before have we been able to harness such a large amount of light in such a small pack-age, which can help us improve our lighting designs and address a number of applications that we previously could not.”
By emitting more than 15 500 lumens from a 19mm light source, the CXA2590 LED array enables luminaires with the same centre-beam candlepower (CBCP) and light quality of a 150W CMH light source at lower power, longer lifetime and with better control. Delivering more than 9 000 lumens from a 12mm light source, the CXA1850 LED array enables lighting solutions with the same CBCP and light quality as 70W CMH while using half the power. The CXA1310 LED array provides more than 2 000 lumens in a 6mm light source, which allows lighting manufacturers to de-sign smaller, more-efficient track lights, reduce the size of halogen
replacements by half and deliver twice the CBCP of CMH at 30% less power.
“The high-density LED arrays from Cree are extremely impressive,” says Kenny Eidsvold, president, Intense Lighting. “We are looking forward to using these products in applica-tions requiring very-high centre beam candlepower that previ-ously could not be achieved with LED-based solutions.”
Cree offers a large portfolio of integrated LED arrays and the only portfolio of high density LED arrays. Having multiple size and lumen output options from the extended CXA product family helps lighting manufacturers address a wide range of lighting ap-plications from small-form-factor halogen and CMH, to sports and stadium lighting. Lighting manufacturers can also take advantage of the CXA’s ability to increase light output without increasing size.
Offering the industry’s best colour consistency for designs that use only one LED, Cree XLamp CXA LED arrays are characterised and binned at 85°C, and are available in ANSI White and Easy-White colour temperatures (2 700K – 6 500K), and CRI options of 70, 80 and 95. Samples of all three new high density LED arrays are available now, and production quantities are available with standard lead times.
Enquiries: (011) 923-9600
Connie Jonker.
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David Krynauw’s winning design that was the start of a new career as a designer.
Eskom lighting winner: from winemaker to distinguished designerDAVID Krynauw, one of the winners in the professional category of the 2008 Eskom Energy Efficient Lighting Design Competition (EELDC), is not only passionate about design, but also about the environment.
David uses wood to make a variety of unusual furniture and light fittings. “I feel that it is important to take responsibility – and to do my part to conserve the environment. This is why I grow trees on my farm on a sustainable basis. My medium and long term goals are to produce most of my furniture from either salvaged wood or timber that is grown in my forests.”
His EELDC-winning lamp, ‘Wooden Chandelier’, was also chosen as one of the finalists for the 2010 Design Indaba’s ‘Most Beautiful Object’.
In creating this lamp, David wanted to explore an unconventional material – as far as light fixtures go – and this eventually led him to use wood. Apart from the positive environmental aspects, com-pared to conventional materials such as aluminium or plastic, wood seemed to be the perfect sustain-able medium.
He thus created a piece that is visually inspiring with its vibrant natural colour, while also appealing to the sense of touch with its lively texture. All the wood used in making the 26 shades was harvested locally as waste products from tree felling compa-nies. LEDs were used as to provide light.
The judges commended the craftsmanship of the lamp, especially the fine effort that went into carving the shades. The wood not only gives it an organic feel but is also distinctively African.
David says that the Eskom Energy Efficient Light-ing Design Competition was the catalyst for him to embark on a full-time design career. He completed his BSc Agric at Stellenbosch University and holds a degree in winemaking. He was a winemaker near Hermanus and, after winning the competition in 2008, decided to pursue a career in design.
David’s work has now been acknowledged inter-nationally and he has recently exhibited his work as part of the Southern Guild Collection in Dubai. His ‘Haywire’ chandelier was also featured on the April 2014 cover of the international Wallpaper* magazine – a “lifetime goal” says David.
EELDCResourceful designers once again have the op-portunity to win handsome cash rewards. The 2014 EELDC challenges novices and seasoned lighting designers to come up with their own, unique fusion of flair and functionality, efficiency and aesthetic appeal in designing an energy-efficient luminaire.
Eskom invites high school learners, students and professional designers to think outside the box and submit imaginative lamp designs that not only work, but that are also pleasing to the eye. It is of major importance that all designs make use of energy-efficient light sources.
Professional designers are also invited to submit innovative energy-efficient designs, systems or products that are suitable for residential applica-tions. These may include, for example, a complete lighting system that caters for a low-cost housing development. Once again, the key word is energy-efficiency.
At R200 000, the total prize value definitely war-rants participation, while the registration of a new patent, of course, also holds lucrative possibilities for the patent holder.
Category A: Residential Luminaire Design (Students)Full-time students at universities, colleges, design centres and schools of design in South Africa are in-vited to submit a luminaire design using an energy efficient light source, suitable for use in the home.
The winner will get R30 000, second place R20 000 and third place R10 000. The winning student’s educational institution wins R10 000 and the six regional finalists each take home a Lenovo 7” Android tablet.
Category B: Innovative Energy Efficient Lighting Design (Professional) Professional graphic designers, architects, electrical engineers, product designers and people with
a passion for design are invited to submit innovative energy efficient designs, systems or products, suitable for residential application. The winner of this category will be awarded R 40 000 while each of the six regional finalists will take home R 5 000 each.
Category C: Most Promising Young Designer (Learners)Promising young designers from secondary schools and FET or independent colleges, between the ages of 14 and 20, are invited to submit innovative energy efficient designs, systems or products, suitable for residential application.
The most promising individual designer will win
R10 000 and the top six regional finalists will each win an ASUS Nexus Android tablet. The winner’s educational institution will be awarded R10 000.
The ‘Special Discretionary Award’ for the ‘Most Promis-ing PDI Designer’ (Individual) will be awarded R10 000.
The theme of this year’s competition is: Celebrate 20 years of democracy!, and the closing date is 15 August 2014.
Full details are available on www.lighting-design.co.za, or from the competition organisers at (021) 949-7419/083 293 2848 or via e-mail at [email protected].
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P people on the move28
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April solution
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MV/LV systems, transformers, mini-subs, suspension devices, poles, switchgear, control gear, quality of supply protection, load control, ca-bles and cable accessories, cable and jointing techniques, metering, en-ergy management, energy efficiency, timers, load shedding, load balancing, testing equipment, hazardous areas, flameproof equipment.
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BEKA Schréder
Heinrick le Roux, senior sales
representative , Pretoria branch.
Andre Hurter, sales representative,
Industrial branch.
Nkanyiso Madlala, sales representative,
Durban branch.
NewElec
Raymond Evans, internal sales
engineer, Pretoria.
Spectrum Utility Management (SUM)
Thea Dawson, data and
development consultant.
Sylvia Ravhutulu, business
development manager.
Magic squareThere is only one basic solution, but by turn-ing this diagram round you can get seven more solutions. The sum of every row and every column is 15.
8 1 6
753
4 9 2
Scared crowsTHE crows were making hay in farmer Giles' barley fields, so he got his shot gun and shot at them. He missed of course, but half of them did fly away, although ten of them soon came back. Later that day, he went out again and shot at them. Half of them flew away and ten soon returned. That evening he did the same, and half flew away and ten returned. When he counted the crows, he discovered – to his disgust – that there were just the same number as there had been in the morning. How many was that?
