SA's top artisans take home gold - Crown Publications...artisans and bridge the skills gap. South Africa has a shortfall of about 40 000 qualified artisans, against the annual production

sparksELECTRICAL NEWS

june 2013

June 2013

www.crown.co.za

IN T

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• Tools of the trade • Energy measurement and supply • Lighting

18-21 22-25 26-31

FEATURES

• Contractors’ Corner

• Buyers’ Guide

• People on the move

REGULARS 2 –15

16–17

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PONTSHO Mabitsela (25) walked away with top honours in the electrical trade category at the first National Artisan Skills Competition, pocketing a gold medal and R20 000 in prize money. In second place was Christo Fourie (25) who took the silver medal and R10 000, and 23-year-old Lloyd Somiah’s third place earned him a bronze medal and R5 000. All three took home certificates and tools.

The final round of the inaugural Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA) National Artisan Skills Competition was held at the Nuclear Energy Corpora-tion of South Africa (NECSA) in Pelindaba from May 14 to 16, when 27 finalists participated in integrated practical tasks and interviews at national level in three trades – electricians, instrumentation mechanicians and fitters.

One of the main sponsors of the competition, Voltex, supplied over R200 000 worth of equipment used by the electrical trade competitors. Nick Gerber, tender/projects manager at Voltex says the competition was “well organised” and that the work done by the young apprentices was of a “high standard”.

“At Voltex, we believe that this kind of competition will go a long way towards bringing top quality artisans back into the industry and we encourage all companies to send their artisans to next year’s competition,” says Gerber.

The top three entrants in the electrical and the instrument mechanician categories also received tools and digital multi-meters, sponsored by Major Tech.

Nick du Plessis, chief moderator for the electrical compo-nent of the competition, says, “I believe the competition was a huge success and, more importantly, it highlighted the fact that we have the capabilities and methodologies to develop this country’s youth and they, in turn, showed us that they have the desire to perform at the highest levels in the artisan environment.”

Pontsho Mabitsela, who can now regard himself as South Africa’s top electrical artisan, says it was “a privilege and a great honour to take part in this competition”.

“I would like to thank everyone for their support and encouragement and I hope that this competition motivates other learners to become artisans,” he says.

SA's top artisans take home gold

South Africa’s top three artisans in the inaugural Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA) National Artisan Skills Competition were honoured at a gala awards dinner at Pelidaba on 17 May. Celebrating their successes are: Nolitha Fakude (CHIETA board chairperson); Martin Lewis (fitter trade first prize win-ner); Duane Goodrich (instrument mechanician first prize winner); Dr Blade Nzimande (Minister of Higher Education Training and Development); Pontsho Mabitsela (first prize winner, electrical trade); Ayesha Itzkin (acting CHIETA CEO); and Tshidi Magonare (apprenticeship training unit manager).

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contractors’ corner C3Personality of the Month

JILL Godden takes up her position of national director for the Electrical Contractors’ Association of South Africa this month, filling the shoes of Chris Greager, who recently retired.

Balancing business acumen and integrity – with a generous measure of grace in what is perceived to be ‘a man’s world’ is no easy task, however, Jill’s determination to succeed is firmly grounded in the unshakeable confidence that she will continue the ECA(SA)’s campaign for a ‘clean’ electrical industry – and win.Sparks: Where were you educated? JG: I matriculated from Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School in KwaZulu-Natal and received my BBA from the American University of Dubai (AUD). I have also obtained various diplomas in construc-tion and property management.Sparks: How long have you been involved in the electrical industry?JG: Although I spent 13 years in the mining and construction industry, I am brand new to the electrical industry, so the last few weeks have been a tremendous learning curve.Sparks: When and where did you start your career? JG: After spending six years with Emaar Properties, based in Dubai, I spent a further seven years in the investment and mining sector in Africa within a business organisation that spanned seven countries.Sparks: What are the greatest changes you have seen over the years? JG: The emerging economies have accelerated their develop-ment and have become more and more likely to dominate global growth. This, coupled with inflation and ‘low cost’ competitors across the board, are rising challenges.Sparks: What major projects have you worked on and what is your greatest accomplishment?JG: I was part of the team that pioneered ‘freehold’ property in the Middle East.

New national director takes up the cudgels for the electrical contracting industrySparks: Have you won any awards? JG: I won the ‘Business Woman of the Year’ award at Motivate Mid-dle East 2004 and this is something of which I am very proud.Sparks: Who has been your inspiration or have you had a mentor who has influenced your career?JG: No, I haven’t had any mentors. Having worked in such diverse cultural environments where women and their rights are largely ignored, I found it inspiring to ‘rise above’ all that. I believe this attitude and the experiences have helped shape my direction and motivated me in the business sphere.Sparks: What, to your mind, is one of the biggest challenges facing the industry at this time? JG: The economy. Business conditions are tough and recovery from the recession has been slow. Many industries and businesses are currently facing a fiscal crisis as a result of the ‘double dip’ affecting economies worldwide.Sparks: What do you enjoy most about your job? JG: The position of national director of the ECA(SA) is a challeng-ing one. The many different aspects of the industry, coupled with some resistance from government sectors, will prove challenging and rewarding. While there are so many objectives of the ECA as an association, I think the top three that I will focus on are: Strengthen-ing the security of our members in the industry by mutual support and consideration; promoting ethics and honourable practices within the electrical contracting industry; and working on behalf of our members to promote and support (or oppose) any legislation or measures affecting the interests of our members. An example being the current problems we are encountering with various SETAs.Sparks: How do you motivate your staff? JG: I motivate my staff by listening, consulting, giving and getting feedback and a positive attitude.Sparks: If you could ‘do it all again’, would you change anything? JG: I would change absolutely nothing. Sparks: Would you advise a person leaving school to enter the electrical industry? And why?JG: Although I am new to the electrical industry in South Africa, my general advice would be: Make sure you enter a field that holds your interest and one that you can be passionate about. Start with that and you can’t go wrong.Sparks: What is your advice to electrical contractors and/or electri-cal engineers? JG: Businesses built on a solid foundation that can weather the economy’s fits and starts; businesses that can embrace change and not crash when things get difficult, and businesses built on integ-rity and ethics, are the businesses that will outlast any competition. Sparks: What is your favourite quote? JG: “Enjoy when you can, and endure when you must.” - Johann Wolfgang von GoetheSparks: Name three things on your ‘bucket list’ (things you want to do before you ‘kick the bucket’).JG: Three things on my bucket list are: Firstly, to walk the way of St James, which is a walk to Santiago through the Pyrenees

Mountains in France into Spain. Secondly, I would like to write a book as writing has always been a passion of mine and so is travel, so perhaps a travel book of some sort... Thirdly, I’d like to learn to play golf.

Mabitsela was trained at P & T Technology and sponsored by Peer-mont Education Trust (Emperors Palace); Christo Fourie was trained by his employer, PETROSA, while Lloyd Somiah was trained by his employer, Tekmation. Tshidi Magonare, CHIETA’s apprenticeship manager says that the competition was launched in response to Minister Nzimande’s call. “Our aim is to discover this country’s talented artisans and bridge the skills gap. South Africa has a shortfall of about 40 000 qualified artisans, against the annual production rate of 13 000 qualified artisans. In order to meet workplace needs, the country needs to produce more than

30 000 qualified artisans a year,” she says.The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Blade

Nzimande, who was the keynote speaker at the awards ceremony on Friday 17 May, said that “unless we accelerate the training of artisans, their numbers will fall short of the demands of industry and therefore adversely affect both production and job creation.”

The CHIETA’s acting CEO, Ayesha Itzkin, says the aim of the competition is “to create awareness about careers and skills development in trade-related training programmes and to excite our youth about career options that lead to jobs in this environment”.

Jill Godden

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Artisans take home gold ...


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C4 contractors’ corner

Mark Palmer, Gauteng Electrical Inspection Authority

Defining ‘properly used’ – compliance or non-compliance?IT is with a certain amount of despair that I find many registered persons are still not familiar with the legal parameters within which they work and, more specifically, certify electrical installations. Of most concern to me is that many electrical con-tractors still look at SANS 10142-1 as some form of ‘guidance document’ that only ‘recommends’ good electrical practice.

In this month’s column, I’d like to clarify certain legal issues, which I believe remain the corner-

stone of much of the illegal electrical installation work that takes place on a daily basis, under the guise of being ‘reasonably safe’.

At the outset, I believe it is vitally important for all electrical practitioners to understand that SANS 10142-1 has been incorporated into the Electrical Installation Regulations (2009) as a safety standard in terms of Section 44 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993, which the Minister is empowered to do.

Incorporation of health and safety standards in regulations 'The Minister may by notice in the Gazette incor-porate in the regulations any health and safety standard or part thereof, without stating the text thereof, by mere reference to the number, title and year of issue of that health and safety standard or to any other particulars by which that health and safety standard is sufficiently identified.' By virtue of this incorporation, the provisions of

the safety standard become legally enforce-able.

A second reference that I must explore is the definition of ‘properly used’, which is clearly defined in the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 and states:

“Properly used” means used with reasonable care, and with due regard to any information, instruction or advice supplied by the designer, manufacturer, importer, seller or supplier…

Furthermore, reference to this defini-tion is found in the Electrical Installation Regulations (2009) and specifically in the Certificate of Compliance (Annexure 1) where a declaration is made by the regis-tered person:

Declaration by registered person: I, a registered person, declare that I have person-ally carried out the inspection and testing of the electrical installation described in the at-tached test report as per the requirements of: (a) Electrical installation regulations 9(2)(a)

(new electrical installation); or (b) Electrical installation regulations (9(2)(b)

(existing electrical installation); or (c) Electrical installation regulations electri-

cal installation) and deem the electrical installation to be reasonably safe when properly used.

Having outlined the above, I would like to investigate some common practices in re-lation to manufacturer’s specifications and/or instructions relative to the following:Plug tops used on PVC insulated cablesAppliances plugged in using flexible cable and considered to not be part of an electrical installation.Let’s look at the first issue:Many contractors are faced with situations where PVC insulated cable, used for fixed wiring and feeding certain fixed appli-ances, has been connected to a plug top. The ramifications of this are:SANS 10142-1 contains a definition of a ‘plug’ i.e. a device that:a) Has two or more metallic contacts in the

form of pins;b) Is arranged for attachment to a flexible

cord or cable; andc) Is intended for engagement with a socket-

outlet (see 3.72).Clearly, this device is not intended for at-tachment to PVC insulated cable used for fixed wiring and therefore does not satisfy the requirements for being ‘properly used’.

This scenario is, in some cases, made even worse when the ‘flexible cord or cable’ that was supplied with the appliance is removed and replaced with PVC insulated cable and connected to the supply terminals of the appliance.The second issue:I have, over many years, found (and, in-deed, continue to find) many cases where the ‘original supply cord’ from the supplier of a fixed appliance is cut and joined in or-der to lengthen the cord so that it reaches the ‘socket outlet’. Instead of ensuring that the socket outlet is made readily accessible for use with the plug and located normally within 1,5m of the fixed appliance, this is the norm with many appliances.

This again would satisfy the requirements for disconnection and also would meet with the manufacturer’s specifications.

This would also satisfy the legal require-ment that the installation and the connected equipment meet with the ’properly used’ criteria.

The link between ‘law’ and ‘recommen-dation’ is a very fine line, and I think that it would be prudent for registered persons and contractors alike to view their activi-ties within the scope of the legislation that defines their legal obligations.


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contractors’ corner C9Working knowledge by Terry McKenzie-Hoy

STRICTLY speaking, generators produce dc current and alternators produce ac. However, in common speech we refer to a ‘diesel generator’ or ‘genset’ even if it produces ac. I’ll use the term ‘generator’ to mean a diesel engine that drives an alternator, producing ac.

About 20 years ago, few knew much about syn-chronising generators. Then, with the decline in the reliability of power supplies, many generators were installed in buildings and factories all over South Africa. To begin with the system was such that, about ten seconds after a power failure, the generator would start and connect the emergency supplies.

When the mains power was restored, the emergen-cy supplies would be switched back to mains.

This resulted in: (a) A voltage dip when the power failed; and (b) a voltage dip when the power was restored. With the use of more modern genset con-trollers and electronic governors, it became possible to synchronise the generator with the mains supply. And so, the operation became that after a power failure of about ten seconds, the generator would start and connect the emergency supplies.

When the mains power came back again, the genset would synchronise with the mains supply and then switch off. Thus, there was only one volt-age dip. Despite this, few knew how to synchronise a generator either with the mains supply or with another generator.

Before we go there, let's understand two other things: When the generator is synchronised to the mains or another generator, its speed cannot be changed by opening or closing the throttle or gover-nor set-point.

Therefore, adjusting the throttle has the effect of making the generator produce more or less torque. Thus, if a generator is synchronised with the mains, then opening the throttle has the effect of causing the generator to supply power.

If the throttle is closed, power supplied is reduced. With two or more generators synchronised in parallel you can adjust the load on the various generators by adjusting the throttles/governor set point. If generators are of different sizes you may find that the smaller generator tries to ‘grab’ all the load and then trips. To make sure that generators share load in proportion to their sizes, there is a parameter that must be set called ‘droop’.

One needn’t know exactly what this is, but all that must happen is that it is set to between 5% and 10% – the exact setting depends on the size difference in the parallel generators.

What happens if you try and increase the terminal voltage of a generator that is running in parallel with

Synchronising generators with the mains supply or another generatorthe mains or another generator?

The power factor of the generator will change. In the same way that you must set the generator droop, you have to set the droop of the genera-tor’s automatic voltage regulator (AVR). If you try to synchronise a generator and the moment you synchronise it the current goes off scale – the AVR droop is the problem.

To synchronise a 400V/380V generator to the mains or another generator, you run the two genera-tors and check that they both have the same voltage

– more or less – on the output terminals. Then connect a volt meter from the red phase of

one unit to the red phase of the other and a further meter between the two blue phases (or white, if you prefer).

Then adjust the speed of the generator until the meter readings move slowly from ±800V to zero and back to 800V. Both meters must give the same read-ings.

When the readings are both zero, close the circuit breaker and there you are. As before, you can adjust

the throttle or governor setting to load or unload the generator. It goes without saying that it is very important to close the circuit breaker only when both meter readings are zero.

If one is zero and the other is not, then the genera-tors have opposite phase rotation and you should swap over two phases of one of them to correct this.

Naturally, when doing all of this you will not work while the equipment is live and you will make sure the meters are fitted with protection fuses.

Have fun.

Schneider Electric has appointed Canninah Mapena as director of its energy division, the largest business unit within the company in South Africa. In her new role, Mapena will focus on customer relationship management, negotiations and deal closing within the utilities market, with particular attention on the mining, minerals and metals (MMM) and solar sectors, as well as the oil and gas market, a new avenue for the organisation at this level. She will report to Schneider Electric country president: southern Africa, Eric Léger and to the Energy Business Unit in France.Mapena has hands-on experience, having completed an electrical engineering technical diploma at Germiston Technical College and an advanced business management and BTech operations management degree at the Univer-sity of Johannesburg.

Enquiries: (011) 254-6400

New director


june 2013


AS part of Legrand’s strategy to establish meaningful rela-tionships with end users in the commercial and residential sectors, the company has embarked on a series of shopping centre promotions.

“This programme highlights Legrand’s innovative electrical products and systems, which are designed espe-cially for the home environment and commercial installa-tions,” says Luk Ivens, general manager, Legrand Southern Africa. “On Legrand’s stands are Arteor switches, sockets and home automation devices which ensure comfort, safety, reli-ability, enhanced aesthetics and energy efficiency.

“Legrand has combined stylish design and leading-edge technology, to create wiring devices with numerous

Showing off to the publicfunctions and various finishes that meet the requirements of the most basic electrical functions, as well as complicated and demanding automation tasks.”

The flexibility of Arteor enables users to create their own scenarios, whether it is a cinema environment, subdued lighting with automatic closing of curtains, or the simple adjustment of a thermostat. Dimmers, lighting controls, scenario controls and multimedia touch screens, are key devices in this range.

Because crime is a growing concern, Legrand has inte-grated a reliable video door entry security system and video surveillance into the Arteor range. Other safety features include an emergency lighting device, which automatically

lights up in the event of a power failure and automatic infra-red switches that manage light and ventilation in passage ways and dark areas. Coded keypads efficiently control and monitor access security.

Arteor devices have an innovative bevelled profile, which gives the illusion that the prod-uct is not attached to the wall. The ‘bi-material’ plates are extra-flat and slim lined, reminiscent of contemporary flat-screen design.

Arteor wiring devices also include tech-nologically advanced systems designed especially for hotel environments. These devices enhance the comfort and convenience of guests – in communal areas of the establish-ment and in each hotel room.

Multi-standard sockets enhance conven-ience for international visitors because there is no need to use an adaptor.

Legrand’s electronic expertise is also em-bodied in the Arteor range. Devices, with the latest electronics technology, extend from the new universal dimmer capable of dimming all types of light sources, including compact fluorescent lamps and LEDs, to BUS (wired) and ZigBee radio frequency home automa-tion solutions.

These promotions are happening from now until the end of September at Eastgate, Sandton City, Menlyn Shopping Centre and the East Rand Mall. Technical experts are on hand to help visitors to the stand.

Enquiries: (011) 444-7971

COPA’s new COP903 is a surge protection device for coaxial cable-connected systems, such as video surveillance systems and similar equipment. This unit also protects the 12V dc voltage supplied from the power supply to the cameras. The SPD is DIN rail mountable, which makes for a neat installation into 19’’ racking systems.

With a nominal operating voltage of 5V dc, COP903 has a BNC (F)-Line or a BNC (M)-Equipment connect-ing terminal. Video signal cables are plugged into the surge arrester with the equipment plugged into the protected side.

Suitable for a wide range of signal frequencies, the surge arrester has a quick response time and a low 0.5dB insertion loss. It has a maximum discharge current of 10kA (8/20μs) and voltage protection up to 150V.

The green LED alarm mode indicates normal opera-tion, while a ‘light-off’ indicates a failure condition. The cost-effective surge protection device operates in a temperature range of -40°C to 70°C.

COPA is represented locally by Surgetek.Enquiries: (011) 792-1303

Signal SPD for video surveillance systems


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contractors’ corner C11

BARLOWORLD Power won the bid to refurbish St Helena Island’s diesel generator power station for a contract value of around R49 million in October 2011 and, in February this year, installation of the final generator was completed and the facility handed over with minor works that still needed to be completed. Overall project finalisation is scheduled for this month.

A British Overseas Territory with a rich maritime history, St Helena is located in a remote part of the South Atlantic Ocean and for decades has depended on its diesel genera-tors for its electricity supply.

The island’s contact with the outside world is also pres-ently reliant on the RMS St Helena mail ship, which sails every An interior view showing the new Cat 3516B units.

St Helena power station project

month between the island and Cape Town, a distance of some 3 200 km, carrying cargo and passengers. In the near future, however, the is-land’s first airport, now under construction, will open up new travel routes and opportunities. On St Helena, Barloworld Power’s project scope included the supply and commissioning of: • Four new Cat generating sets, replacing

the older equipment. These comprise three Cat 3516B generators running continuous power and a smaller Cat 3508B for lighter loads;

• New medium voltage (MV) switchgear;• A new and modernised SCADA and control

system designed to lighten the workload of the plant operators and to integrate a small wind farm and sub-station; and

• New cable works, fuel system, bulk tanks and all ancillary systems to support the new engines.

The total system was designed and built by Barloworld Power in Boksburg with all major MV panels sourced from South African sup-pliers. In accordance with the contract, a full factory acceptance test (FAT) was carried out prior to shipping and, on 31 August 2012, the first Cat unit was delivered to site.

By this stage, the majority of the old

equipment had already been removed from the power house in preparation for the new arrivals. The Barloworld Power installation was divided into several phases, each one with a critical timeline. The first phase was to prepare and install the first generator as a temporary installation to provide power to the island while the station was being refurbished. This temporary installed generator was com-missioned and running on 23 September and, until the end of November, performed superbly. The new power station came on line on 30 November 2012.

This remote power station will now be supported by Barloworld Power’s team based in Cape Town.

Enquiries: (011) 929-0000

THE laser rangefinder GLM 250 VF Professional from Bosch provides the largest measurement range of all comparable devices on the market. It measures distances from 0.05 to 250m with a typical accuracy of one millimetre.

The integrated target optics of the GLM 250 VF Professional make working outdoors easier. The laser point is thus also visible in difficult lighting condi-tions and over distances of up to 250m.

The GLM 250 VF Professional provides numerous useful measurement and calculation functions. Apart from the usual area and volume calculation as well as simple Pythagoras for indirect height measure-ment, there are seven other functions: Combined Pythagoras for partial height measurement; double Pythagoras for convenient tripod measurements and height calculations at inaccessible positions; trap-ezoid function for measuring roof inclinations; timer function for precise measuring with tripod or from difficult measuring points; and a surveying function to mark recurring distances.

The ‘minimum-maximum’ function can be used in combination with all other measurements. Up to ten times faster than with a folding rule and pocket calculator, the wall area function determines the total area of several walls with the same room height.

The device can also add new measured values to or subtract them from stored measured values. The user sets all the functions on the clearly arranged button pad marked with intuitive symbols. The measure-ment results and device settings are easy to read on the large illuminated four-line display.

The GLM 250 VF Professional automatically saves the last 30 measurements. The folding multifunction measuring pin ensures flexibility when measuring inaccessible positions or outer edges. The reception optics with a particularly large glass lens also pick up very weak reflected light signals.

Enquiries: (011) 651-9860

New laser rangefinder for outdoors


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Training and development by Nick du Plessis


IT’S that time of the year when we, as skills development facilitators, are required to pre-pare our Workplace Skills Plans (WSPs) for sub-mission to the relevant SETAs in order to receive the mandatory grant back from the SETA. These WSPs form part of that 1% of your salary bill that you have been paying to SARS under the Skills Development Levy section of your monthly tax and you are eligible to claim a percentage of those monies back for any training undertaken

Unravelling Workplace Skills Plansby you or your staff during the last WSP submission period.

As we are now approaching the deadline for WSP submissions to the SETAs, I thought this would be a good opportunity for Sparks Electrical News readers to get some idea of WSPs and why organisations have to submit these plans to their SETAs.

When I was asked questions such as: “Will we be exposing ourselves?” and “Will we be required to do training if we complete this plan?”I realised that

while there are many questions and concerns out there, there are few clear answers.

Firstly, to quote the National Qualifications Framework’s support link: “Workplace Skills Plans (WSPs) are well-researched and reasoned plans for developing the skills needed by particular companies. They should include a survey of the qualifications and roles of the staff and an analysis of the company’s expected future trends. The WSP should, ideally, relate to the Sector Skills Plan (SSP) drawn up by the

relevant SETA and to the National Skills Development Strategy’s (NSDS’s) strategic priorities. The WSPs are required by the NSDS as the basic prerequisite for a company to start recovering its Skills Development Levy (SDL). (See entry for Skills Development Act.)” FAQsI have a compiled some frequently asked ques-tions with answers to explain the process: Q: What is the WSP?A: It is the Workplace Skills Plan document, which

contains information that the SETAs use to predict the needs – and the progress – of the various sectors.Q: Who has to complete the WSP?A: All employers must complete the WSP. Q: What qualifications must be possessed by the person completing the WSP? A: Skills development facilitator (SDF) training is available and there is a list available on your SETA website of all registered SDFs with that SETA. The company can also assign an HR person or whomsoever they see fit to take over the responsibility for the uploading and the submission – but they must ensure that the designated person is registered with that SETA as the SDF.Q: What are the benefits of completing the WSP for the company?A: The company will be able to claim back a percentage of the levies paid to the SETAs (mandatory grants). The company will be able to apply to access funds for its skills development training, such as learnerships and apprenticeships (discretionary grants and pivotal grants). Please note that these are awarded at the SETA’s discretion. Q: When and how must the WSP be sub-mitted? A: The WSP is loaded on the SETA’s WSP sub-mission programme and must be submitted by 30 June for that particular year. Q: What are the links from WSP to SSP (Sector Skills Plan) to National skills strategy?A: The government gives the SETA objectives to follow the National Skills Development Strategy III (NSDIII) for a period of five years, then the SETAs take those objectives and, looking at the information supplied by the WSPs, they inform the SETAs of the needs that are lacking within that sector.

With the help of a sector specialist, they then develop the SSP five year plans that need to be implemented.Q: Will companies get Skills Development Levies (SDL) grants back and how do they do this?A: They will get their grants back by meeting the criteria stipulated in grants’ regulations.

So, now that you understand more about the WSPs, I urge you to complete and submit your WPS in time so that your organisation can claim its grants.

Submission of the WSPs will also support the SETA, and by providing valid and accurate information, the SETA will know what skills are available and be able to estimate what skills are required for the future development of this country.

Changes to the SETA Grant regulations can be found in the Government Gazette No. 35940 of 3 December 2013.

Reach your target market...– call Carin Hannay at (011) 622-4770


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WHAT picture pops into your head when you read or hear the word ‘circuit’? Cars? Computers? PC boards? Your local gym? Well, you would be correct in all instances. Cars race around a circuit to reach the fin-ish line; in the gym you exercise your way around the circuit to complete your training session; and com-puters consist of printed circuit boards – not only the mother board, but smaller circuits are also found in the hard drive, memory and other electronic compo-nents. All of these facilitate the flow of energy and/or electricity (electronic data) from a starting point to an end point.

For an electrical installation, SANS 10142-1 defines it as follows:3.12 – Circuit: ‘Arrangement of conductors (see 3.15) for the purpose of carrying electric current’…

We have discussed conductors at length in previ-ous columns so I will not dwell on them. What I would like to highlight though, is the definition as a whole. If you read carefully, you will notice that the words point to something that is ‘structured’, not haphazard but with a particular purpose – much like a race or gym session. However, this particular purpose is to carry electric current from, for example, the distribution board to a socket outlet or fixed appliance.

This arrangement of conductors includes the live and the earth conductors in single- and three-phase installations. You may be wondering: No neutral? Yes, the neutral as well, but it can be a bit of a misnomer.

You see, in a single-phase installation especially, the ‘neutral’ is the ‘return path’ so to speak, and it is very much a ‘live’ conductor, too.

If you disconnect the neutral conductor anywhere along its length on its way to the neutral bar and use a multimeter between the two open ends, you will find the full potential difference to be present at that point in the installation. I am very sure quite a few of you have already been ‘bitten’ by the ‘dead’ neutral while working on a ‘switched off’ lighting circuit – yes?

The proof that the neutral is regarded ‘live’ by SANS 10142-1 can be found in the note to:3.46 – Live/alive: ‘At an electrical potential to earth…NOTE: Live parts include the neutral conductor and conductive parts connected to it.’

Before we get to the circuits themselves, let’s first have a look at the supplies. There is no definition for a ‘Protected Extra Low Voltage (PELV) supply’. Or an ‘earthed low voltage supply’ as opposed to a ‘safety supply’, but the differences are actually a no-brainer when you consider the definition for a PELV circuit later on.3.67 – Safety supply: ‘Supply of electricity that is obtained from: a) the unearthed secondary circuit of an isolating transformer with limited output voltage, specified by the manufacturer; or b) any other isolating device that provides equivalent safety and the same degree of separation between the primary and second-ary circuits; or c) an isolated generator or a battery that provides a non-earthed supply.’3.70 – Shaver supply unit: ‘Accessory that embodies an isolating transformer with limited output and one or more socket outlets that allow the use of only one plug at a time’

Note that definition 3.67 (the supply) is essentially the same as that of the SELV circuit, with specific ref-erence to the unearthed secondary circuit, isolation, separation (insulation) etc, except no maximum or minimum voltages apply.

The use of low voltage, safety and isolated supplies are regularly referred to in SANS 10142, with specific reference to the required maximum or minimum voltages for a particular application, etc. For the shaver supply, for instance, no specific rating is stipu-lated… just read carefully.

So, onto the circuit…3.12.1 – Protected Extra Low Voltage (PELV) circuit: “Extra low voltage (ELV) circuit with protective separation from other circuits and which, for functional reasons, may be earthed and/or the exposed conduc-tive parts of which may be earthed…NOTE 1: PELV circuits are used where the circuits are earthed and SELV is not required.NOTE 2: See 7.14.2 for additional safety precautions when Safety Extra Low Voltage (SELV) and PELV circuits are used in hazardous locations.”

Please note that 7.14.2 does not explain the

additional safety precautions of the SELV and PELV circuits when employed in hazardous areas as you might deduct from the note contents. The reference is pointing us to the codes for the hazardous areas… a little confusion never hurt anyone, right? On top of it all, a PELV is not to be confused with:3.12.2 – Safety Extra Low Voltage (SELV) circuit: “Extra low voltage (ELV) circuit with protective separation from other circuits, and which has no provision for earth-ing of the circuit or of the exposed conductive part…”

The ‘extra low voltage’ for the above definitions are normally derived from transformers, batteries and/or other electronic means with the maximum

voltages in the system limited to 50V ac rms or 120V ripple-free dc.

Also bear in mind that PELV is essentially an earthed extra low voltage system. The SELV arrangement on the other hand, is an unearthed extra low voltage system.

The above ‘extra low voltage’ systems and the associated circuits might sound like the answer to many of your “protection against electric shock is-sues”… but be very, very careful.

When you introduce an earth connection – com-mon to the 230V installation – on the low voltage (load) side of the low voltage devices (transformer,

Getting to grips with SANS 10142–1 by Hannes Baard

Getting on track with circuitsetc), you could effectively ‘short circuit’ the protec-tion afforded by the low voltage device. It is, therefore, of utmost importance that extra low voltage systems be properly specified and de-signed. In addition, they need to be maintained by competent persons.

An example of such an extra low voltage instal-lation with no earthing on the secondary side of the low voltage transformer is the 12V lighting circuits found in swimming pool installations.

Another example would be the requirements of installation method C1 when a bell push is installed in Zone 1 of a bathroom, for instance.


june 2013


An international flavour at golf day

THE LSis Korean hosts added an interna-tional flavour to the first golf day played recently at the Glendower Golf Estate in Johannesburg. The guests, Jeongyong Lee and Sungjun Kim from LSis Korea joined their clients for a round of golf in perfect weather at one of Johannesburg’s beautiful courses.

LSis generously provided everything on the day, from food and drinks to caddies and shirts; and every player received a ‘goodies bag’.The winners of the day were:• 1st: Corrie van Wyk and Lieb Bossinger.• 2nd: Clinton Zietsman and Willie Ras.

• 3rd: Graham Fleming and Mike Spear.• 4th: Charl van der Westhuizen and Peter

Rodgers.Lucky draw: Brenda Shimmon.Longest day: Jurie Breedt and Mike Olivier.Nearest to the pin: Pat Stone.Longest drive: Patrick Wait.

The team that took second place is: Clinton Zietsman, Jeongyong Lee, Sungjun Kim and Yeishan Padayachy, who collected Willie Ras’ prize on his behalf.

The third place winners are Graham Fleming, Jeongyong Lee, Sungjun Kim and Mike Spear.

The winners of the golf day are: Jeongyong Lee, Corrie Van Wyk, Sungjun Kim and Lieb Bossinger.

PLANNING for the 2013 annual ECA(SA) Presi-dential Excellence Awards is in full swing and the two day event will take place on 22 and 23 October this year.

Based on the huge success of the 2012 format, the ECA(SA) management team has decided to continue the tradition of the annual golf day to be followed by a prestigious awards gala dinner and the annual ECA(SA) confer-ence, which will be held on Wednesday, 23 October 2013.

“The categories have not changed greatly from 2012, except that the energy efficiency

Get ready for the ECA(SA) Presidential Excellence Awards 2013

Lizel de Jager (Voltex) with Pravin Patel (representative from Guinness World Records) at the 49M World Record attempt at Marks Park, Emmerentia, Johannesburg when a crowd of 2 943 people of all ages honoured Earth Hour by simultaneously bouncing on ‘space hoppers’ for 60 seconds. This shattered the previously held record of 1505 people, making 49M the new holder of the Guinness world record for the most people bouncing simul-taneously on space hoppers in one place.

Voltex Earth Day

category has been refined and divided into two to accommodate the needs of the indus-try,” says Dirk Engelbrecht, president of the ECA(SA).The categories will be:• Installation of the Year – Housing.• Installation of the Year – Shopping Centres.• Installation of the Year – Office Blocks and

Hotels – incl Government and Municipal Contracts.

• Installation of the Year – Industrial.• Best Contributor to Electrical energy Effi-

ciency for Electrical Installation(Refurbished

Projects including PV).• Best Contributor to Electrical Energy

Efficiency for Electrical Installation (New Projects including PV).

• Reticulation Contractor of the Year – Private supply authority / housing.

• Young Apprentice of the Year.• Woman Owned Business of the Year.“This year, our theme is ‘Safety’; it is a critical aspect of the electrical contract-ing industry – from maintaining quality standards of operation to the regula-tion of installations and the use of legal goods,” says Engelbrecht.

“Our annual conference will focus on safety in all areas that affect our industry.”

Entry forms will be available in Sparks Electrical News and online at www.ecasa.co.za from mid-July 2013 and submissions must be made before the end of September 2013.

“The importance of submitting good entries is critical. The judges need as much information regarding the installa-tion and project as possible,” advises Carel Ballack, SESSA Ombudsman and one of the judges for last year’s competition.

“The entries that were accompanied by good diagrammatic information and plenty of photos showing the progress of the project could be better evaluated and scored higher as the judges had a better overall view of the nature and complexity of the installa-tions.”

Again, ECA(SA) member firms and partners will be invited to participate in the annual conference with presenta-tions and exhibition opportunities.

“Generous sponsorships enable these events to happen and ECA(SA) is grate-ful to Brother SA, the Copper Develop-ment Association Africa (CDAA) and Sparks Electrical News– who are all on board for 2013,” says Engelbrecht.

For information about the event or to participate in the conference please contact Christine at [email protected]

http://www.ecasa.co.za

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


june 2013


Air conditioners to make winter warmer

LIGHTING and electrical supplier, Radiant Group (Radi-ant), recently added a new range of air conditioners to its vast product range.

“These days, the most popular choice for home or of-fice air conditioners are those that have separate indoor and outdoor units, requiring only a small hole for installation and that are very quiet when oper-ating,” says Radiant electrical manager, Kevin French.

“The split unit air condition-ers consist of an indoor and an outdoor unit,” he explains. “The indoor heat exchanger, or coil, mounts above the furnace, inside the ducting while the outdoor section contains the remaining components.

The two sections are joined by refrigerant lines connecting

“THE brand name Riken was introduced to the South African market in 1986 and, owing to the great success of this range of products, we started to trade un-der the name Riken South Africa shortly after that,” explains Hart-ley Greger, managing member.

“The Riken range has proved itself in the South African market

New range of circuit breakers and industrial sockets

DIVERSIFIED industrial manufacturer, Eaton Cor-poration, recently introduced the easy800 con-trol relay with Bluetooth communication. With a Bluetooth adapter, machines and plants can be conveniently commissioned and maintained remotely. Users can now also communicate with the controller outside of noisy environments and dangerous areas. Communication between the notebook and easy800 can be bridged with a Bluetooth adapter in normal industrial environ-ments up to distances of 10m.

An eight-digit PIN number for each Bluetooth adapter is used as a security code for commu-nication with the notebook. This prevents the possibility of external unauthorized accesses to easy800. The Bluetooth adapter is easy to recog-nise in Windows 7: A scan is first of all carried out

Control relay with Bluetooth adapterto find a Bluetooth device; as soon as a Bluetooth EASY800-BLT-ADP-xxxxxx is detected, this can be integrated by using the security code of the required adapter. The six-digit number “xxxxxx” is the MAC ID of the Bluetooth adapter, and is used only once for the unique identification of each one. In this way, users can manage several adapt-ers on one notebook without any problem. One the other hand, each Bluetooth adapter can man-age up to four different notebooks and Bluetooth connections. With the easySoft-Pro software from version 6.91, an established Bluetooth connection can be used as easily as a programming cable for programming, downloads and uploads, as well as for the status display of the circuit diagram.

The easy800 control relay series has demon-strated its versatility in a wide range of applica-

tions. With its versatile function blocks such as PID controllers, maths function blocks, pulse width modulation, high-speed counter etc., the easy800 provides solutions for a wide range of control and regulation tasks in industry and trade. Thanks to its analogue and digital

expandability, connectivity to standard bus systems, easyNet networkability and possibility for Ethernet communication, the easy800 control relay has become the most powerful of its kind on the market.

Enquiries: (011) 824-7400

as a good, dependable and reliable brand and, most of all, it has gained the trust of people in industry, farming, contracting and wholesale markets through-out the country,” he says.

Riken Electric, which is a third generation, family-managed company, is based in Taipei, Taiwan where the Riken Electric

product range has been manu-factured since 1948.

“The company has continuous-ly been involved in the research and development of many new products and is constantly in-creasing its range. Riken Electric products are sold in this country through its appointed distribu-tor network, Riken South Africa cc,” says Greger, adding that the products are also available in many other countries.

“Recently, there has been a change in the distribution network that has left the market in somewhat of a quandary, but new agents have been appointed,” he explains, “and they are mindful of the needs of their clients and, indeed, future clients.”

“Together, we can assure our clients that Riken is stronger and better now than ever before and we look forward to launching Riken Electric’s latest range of circuit breakers and industrial sockets to the market.”

Enquiries: (012) 804-2226

the indoor coil to the refrigeration components in the outdoor section.”

The split unit air conditioners comprise three sizes, ranging from 9 000 BTU for rooms up to 18m2, 12 000 BTU and 18 000 BTU for rooms up to 35m2, mak-ing them ideal for most rooms in homes and offices,” adds French.

The air conditioners offer both heating and cooling functions, with an independ-ent dehumidifying function suitable for coastal use.

All units are equipped with intelligent control and display technology, an automatic restart function and LED mo-tion display and come with a three-year warranty on the compressor, and one year for the complete unit.

Enquiries: (011) 386-0000


june 2013

BUYERS'E16 energy measurement and supply

Manufacturers & contacts

ABBAlida Herbert ACDC DynamicsSales Aberdare CablesAnnelene SivalingumAcorpRaj/Charles/JamesActom Electrical ProductsIsabel Magalhaes AllbroRyan AllanAlstom Protection & ControlFaisal Hoosen/Sven Siege/Bradley LubbeAlvern CablesStephen LiasidesCBI-electric: African CablesSalesCBI-electric : Aberdare ATC Telecom CablesChris du PreezCBI-electric: low voltageAletta OlivierCBI-electric: medium voltageRudi CoetzeeCHI ControlRob HareClipsal by Schneider ElectricNico van der MerweComtestVal VerwerControlgear ProductsDeon Coetzee Crabtree Electrical AccessoriesAndre le RouxEaton Electric SAMarlene Coetzee Flexicor CablesElio GualdiFocus ConnectionChris WilliamsFrampton’s Battery CentreDave FramptonGeneral ElectricDerrick SearleInstralec Dolf Labuschagne Lapp Group SAGrant JoyceLandis+GyrNatasha BellLegrandLuk IvensLuminaire Component IndustriesClive BeetonMagnet Electrical SuppliesCedric van NiekerkMajor TechWerner GrobbelaarMCESalesMegger Marius PitzerMeissnerGraham BeyleveldMoeller ElectricJose RuivoNational CablesPaul MengeOmronSalesPelco by Schneider ElectricBarry KasselmanPowermite AfricaS RoedigerProtea ElectronicsCharl UrquhartRadiant GroupGerard PillayR&C InstrumentationSteve EdwardsRittalJason McBeathRS ComponentsAdelaide TaylorRockwell AutomationJeff SandisonShorrock AutomationChris HuxhamSicame SALiezel FesterSinetechHerbert TeubnerSpazio LightingSales managerSpescom MeasuregraphTrevor LeongStone-StamcorTheo MompleRadiant GroupAshveer LallaRittalJason McBeathSouth Ocean Electrical Wire Yasmin MahomedUniversal CablesMartin ElseVersalec CablesRoland FryeVoltexLizel de JagerVoltex LightingMarc RudmanVoltex LsisGary PatersonWaco IndustriesLectina Chabuda WestingcorpTony Cook

A&A Dynamic DistributorsFull range of switchgearACDC DynamicsFull range of switchgearActom Electrical ProductsSBV indoor equipment, SBV3+3E, SBV4+4E, SBV5+5E, SBV-24, vacuum intern pres, ring main units and extensible switchgear, compact MV switchgearAllbroInsulators and busbar supportsAlstom Protection & ControlLV municipal electricity distribution; metering and distribution enclosuresARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of switchgearCBI Electric: Low VoltageFull range of switchgearCBI Electric: Medium VoltageFull range of switchgearCentury Electrical Full range of switchgearCHI ControlEaton switchgearEaton Electric SAFull range of switchgearFocus ConnectionContactors; overloads, enclosures to IP65; timers and all other switchgearKhanyisa Electrical SuppliersFull range of switchgearLegrandMiniature circuit breakers from 1 – 125A; B,C and D curve moulded case circuit breakers from 16 – 1 600A LEM ProductsFull range of switchgearLuminaire Component IndustriesFull range of LV and MV switchgearMCEFull range of MCE switchgear, full range of S&C switchgearMeggerMegger test instruments for LV and MV switchgearOmronLow voltage switchgearPMCGFull range of switchgearRadiant GroupSwitchgear (LV and MV); Load shedding relays; WestingcorpComprehensive range of switchgearVepac Electronics Katko isolators, pilot lights, tower lights, push button stationsVoltexFull range of switchgear

Switchgear

Aberdare CablesComplete range of electric cableACDC DynamicsFull range of cablingAllbroJunction boxesARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of cablingAtlas CablesWide range of cablesCBI Electric: African CablesFull range of cablingCBI Electric: Aberdare ATC Telecom CablesFull range of cablingCentury Electrical Full range of cablingEaton Electric SAFull range of cablingKhanyisa Electrical SuppliersFull range of cablingLapp Group SAFull range of cablingLegrandData cablingSouth Ocean Electrical Wire GP; single core flex; SWA; solid spanesl wire & FLEX power Radiant GroupSOEW – South Ocean Electrical WiringVoltexFull range of cables

Cabling

ACDC DynamicsFull range of pavement cubicles and boxesAllbroPole mounted distribution boxesAlstom Protection & ControlLV municipal, utility distribution and meteringARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of pavement cubicles and boxesLegrandFull range of enclosures in mild steel, polycarbonate and stainless steelThorn Electrical DistributorsEnclosuresWestingcorpFull range of pavement cubicles and boxesVoltexFull range of pavement cubicles and boxes

Pavement cubicles and boxes

A&A Dynamic DistributorsComprehensive range of metersAcorpFull range of metersACDC DynamicsFull range of metersActom Electrical ProductsSingle phase direct kWh meters, single and three phase Ct operated kWh meter, single phase kWh meter with cyclometer, single phase meter with LCD display and polycarbonate coverAllbroMeter boxesAlstom Protection & ControlThree-phase and single-phase electromechanical and electronic meters; Three-phase and single-phase electromechanical and electronic meters; measurement centres; three-phase programmable electronic metersARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of metersCBI Electric: Low VoltageFull range of metersCentury Electrical Full range of metersCHI ControlCircutor metersElster Kent MeteringSingle-phase 20 – 80A electromechanical meters; single-phase 10 – 100A electronic meters; three-phase electromechanical 20 – 100A meters; three-phase electronic 1/5A energy and demand meters; three-phase electronic multi-function metersFerroTechFull range of metersFocus ConnectionComprehensive range of ammeters and voltmetersLandis+GyrFull range of electricity prepayment meters and prepayment vending software; credit metering solutions, from residential to grid applications; portable and fixed MTE meter test equipmentLegrandElectrical and multi-function energy metersLEM ProductsFull range of metersMajor TechPower quality analyser, compact power meter, power clamp meterMCEOnesto kW hour metersPMCGFull range of metersRadiant Group06ME2SP Meter Kilo Watt Hours S/P20(80)A; 06ME2TP Meter Kilo Watt Hour T?P 30(120)AR&C InstrumentationTwo-wire 4-20mA CTsThorn Electrical DistributorsCarlo Gavazzi energy metersTimecountSineax A210 meter; Power monitor A2000 meterVepac Electronics Eco power meters, Eco8 energy managementVoltexFull range of metersWaco IndustriesFull range of meters

Meters

ACDC DynamicsFull range of uninterruptible power suppliesAcorpFull range of standby/backup systemsActom Electrical ProductsFull range of standby/backup systemsAlstom Protection & ControlGeneral protection relaysARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of standby/backup systemsCentury Electrical Full range of standby gensets, UPSs, etcCHI ControlMeissner standby/backup systems Eaton Electric SAFull range of standby/backup systemsEngineering Data SystemsFull range of uninterruptible power suppliesFerroTechFull range of standby/backup systemsFocus Connection500VA UPS – 1.5kVA rangeFGW GeneratorsFull range of standby/backup systems (standby gensets, UPSs, etc)Khanyisa Electrical SuppliersFull range of standby/backup systemsLapp Group SAFull range of standby/backup systemsLegrandUPSsMeissnerFull range of UPSs from 600VA for stand-alone applications to 625kVA multi parallerable UPSsMGE UPS SystemsFull range of UPS sytemsQuad Technical ServicesFull range of standby/backup systemsRittalFull range of standby/backup systemsSinetechComprehensive range of UPSsStone-StamcorYuasa sealed lead acid batteriesVepac Electronics DIN rail power supplies, DIN rail UPS

Standby / backup systems

Distributors & contacts

A&A Dynamic DistributorsAndrew Kayser ARB Electrical WholesalersArvinash Ramdass CabstrutJuanita Kaanagan Century Electrical Aboo MoollaElster Kent MeteringDeon HendriksenEngineering Data SystemsRudolf KellerElster Kent MeteringDeon Hendriksen Engineering Data SystemsRudolf Keller FerroTechKevin NorrisFGW GeneratorsRajen NaidooHV TestSean GoodwinKhanyisa Electrical SuppliersClive KalilPMCGHannes Schwartz or Colin LaubscherQuad Technical ServicesGary ShearSicame SALiezel FesterSpazio LightingSales manager Strut-AheadJonathan OllerheadThorn Electrical DistributorsStephen RogersonVepac Electronics Brian Howson/Barry BastianVersalec CablesRoland Frye

Clipsal by Schneider ElectricC-Bus building management systemComtestFluke 983 particle counter; Fluke 200 series carbon monoxide/dioxide testerElectro-Test InstrumentationFull range of building management systemsOmronOmron PLCThorn Electrical DistributorsCarlo Gavazzi Dupline SystemVoltexFull range of building management systems

Building management systems

HellermannTytonFull range of labelling requirementsKhanyisa Electrical SuppliersFull range of labelling requirementsLapp Group SAFull range of labelling requirementsRadiant Group06LADB Label sheet Assorted DB labels

Labelling

A&A Dynamic DistributorsComprehensive range of MV and LV transformersActom Electrical ProductsDistribution transformers from 16kVA to 5mVA, power transformers from 6mVA to 315mVAAllbroTransformer bushings and tap change switches, protection equipmentARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of MV to LV transformersCBI Electric: Medium VoltageFull range of MV to LV transformersClipsal by Schneider ElectricElectronic LV lighting transformersFerroTechFull range of MV to LV transformersFocus ConnectionComplete range of current transformersLegrandCompact DIN rail mounted transformers; LV transformers; power supplies up to 50AMeggerMegger test instruments for power and distribution transformersPowermiteManufacturer of MV to LV transformersRadiant GroupXE060/30 Transformer Electronic 20-50VA; XS050/01 Transformer Slimline 50VASpazio LightingMV and LV transformersVoltexFull range of MV to LV transformersWestingcorpMV transformers

MV to LV transformers


june 2013

GUIDE

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.

Eenergy measurement and supply 17

CHI ControlCircutorFerroTechFull range of energy billing requirementsRadiant GroupRange of energy billing solutionsThorn Electrical DistributorsCarlo Gavazzi energy management softwareVoltexFull range of energy billing requirements

Energy billing

ACDC DynamicsFull range of load management solutionsAlstom Protection & ControlLoad shedding relaysCBI Electric: Low VoltageFull range of load shedding relays, etcCentury Electrical Full range of load shedding relays, etcCHI ControlCircutor relaysEaton Electric SAFull range of load management requirementsFerroTechFull range of load management requirementsKhanyisa Electrical SuppliersFull range of load management requirementsMCEOnesto load shedding relaysOmronRelaysThorn Electrical DistributorsCarlo Gavazzi energy control metersTimecountPowermonitor A2000Vepac Electronics Monitoring relays, timers, counters, relaysVoltexFull range of load management requirements

Load management

AcorpMini substationsActom Electrical ProductsCompact mini substations; max rating: 22kV up to 1 000kVA available in mild steel, fire glass or 3CR12; enclosures in Type A or B configurationARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of mini substationsCHI ControlEaton mini substationsLegrandExtendable mild steel enclosuresVoltexFull range of mini substationsWestingcorpComprehensive range of mini substations

Mini substations

ACDC DynamicsFull range of measuring instrumentsAcorpFull range of measuring instrumentsActom Electrical ProductsFull range of metering instrumentsAlstom Protection & ControlMeter test blocksARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of metering instrumentsCentury Electrical Full range of measuring instruments CHI ControlCircutor measuring instrumentsEaton Electric SAFull range of measuring instrumentsFerroTechFull range of measuring instrumentsHellermannTytonFull range of measuring instrumentsH.V. TestSeaward HV test sticks; Rogioski fully insulated 1000V clamp-on meters; full range of reliable power meters; Seaward HV testers, Fameca indicators; Baur and Vanguard megometersInstralecFull range of clamp-on meters from Fluke, Yokogawa, Mastech, Major Tech, Toptronic, Universal, Technic, Chauvin Arnoux; power analysers from Fluke and Yokogawa; Voltage testers from Fluke, AVO, Isotech, Robin, Mastech, and YokogawaLapp Group SAFull range measuring instrumentsMagnet Electrical SuppliesCatu MV and HV voltage detector complete with audible and visual alarm, contact type; Chauvin Arnoux current, power and harmonic clamp-on meters; Chauvin Arnoux Qualistar power quality analyser, digital with scope and 4Mb of storage; Metrahit multimeters with optional data logging featuresMajor TechThe K6310 is a tool with 12 different power measurements for power control and harmonic analysis; features include instantaneous values (V, A, Watt, VA and pf ), integrated values (Wh), demand measurement, wave and Vector measurement, power quality and harmonics; Pf correction calculation is one of the features of the power quality function; and the K6300 power recorder and K5020 voltage and current loggerMCEComprehensive range of analogue panel metersPMCGFull range of measuring instrumentsProtea ElectronicsHV probes from Yokogawa, Iwatsu and Hipotroncis; AC power analysers and meters from Yokogawa and Hipotronics; hand-held digital multimeters; bench-mounted digital multimeters; precision digital multimeters from Yokogawa, Iwatsu and TTI; full range of Yokogawa, Ranger, Westronics/Rustrak and Thurlby Thandar voltage testersR&C InstrumentationInfrared single point and thermography measurementRS ComponentsFull range of clamp-on meters; full range of power analysers; full range of multimeters; full range of voltage testersThorn Electrical DistributorsCarlo Gavazzi measuring instrumentsTimecountPower meters, electrical transducersVepac Electronics Current transformersWaco IndustriesCarlo Gavazzi energy management; Smart power analysers; transducers; serial interface and software for all eletrical parameters; Wibre voltage testers; pocket screwdriver testersWaco IndustriesWide range of measuring instrumentsVoltexFull range of measuring instruments

Metering (measuring instruments)

A&A Dynamic Full range of contactors, breakers, and relaysABBFull range of contactors, circuit breakers, and relaysACDC DynamicsFull range of DBs, main breakers, circuit breakers, etcAllbroDistribution boards and ready boardsAlstom Protection & ControlLV air circuit breakersARB Electrical WholesalersFull range of DBs, mains breakers, etcCBI Electric: Low VoltageFull range of DBs, breakers and relaysCHI ControlEaton DBs, mains breakers, circuit breakersCentury Electrical Full range of DBS, mains breakers, etcClipsal by Schneider ElectricSeries 4 DBs and circuit breakersControlgear ProductsFull range from all leading manufacturersCrabtree Electrical AccessoriesA range of 6kA MCBs (includes isolators, earth leakages and miniature circuit breakers); a range of 12 and 18 DIN flush mount distribution boardsFocus ConnectionFull range of distribution boards, main breakers, MCB, MCCB and overloads; full range of contactors, circuit breakers and electro-magnetic 8 or 11 pin relays with bases to fitGeneral ElectricMC/CL/CK contactors 3/4P 2.2kW to 450kW; MCR/H6 relays; record breakers; Redline miniature circuit breakersKhanyisa Electrical SuppliersFull range of DBs, main breakers, circuit breakersLegrandFull range of breakers and protection devicesLEM ProductsFull range of DBs, main breakers, circuit breakers and relaysMajor TechVETI Econo board flush mount range; VETI Econo board surface mount range; VETI IP65 board surface mount rangeMCEComplete range of DBs for all applications; Onesto circuit breakers, Hyundai MCCBs (fixed, adjustable and electronic), MCE thermal overloads, Hyundai electronic motor protection relaysMeggerMegger test instruments for circuit breakersMoeller ElectricFull range of contactors, breakers, and relaysPMCGFull range of contactors, breakers and relaysPelco by Schneider ElectricContactors from 6 to 2750A (ac/dc/vacuum/low consumption); Zelio interface relays up to 16A; Zelio miniature relays up to 12A; Zelio universal relays up to 10A; GV motor circuit breakers up to 110kW; multi 9 miniature circuit breakers from 1 to 125A, 2.5 to 25kA; NS moulded case circuit breakers up to 3200A; Masterpact NT/NW power circuit breakers from 800 to 6300ARS ComponentsFull range of contactors, breakers, and relaysRockwell AutomationComprehensive range of contactors with carious coil and line voltages; full range of accessories; major breakers, circuit breakers, various accessories; various plug and control relays with a full range of coil voltages, different configurationsStrut-AheadComprehensive range of contactors, breakers, and relaysVepac Electronics Mouldded case circuit breakersVoltex LsisFull range of circuit breakersWaco IndustriesWide range of circuit breakers

DBs / main breakers / circuit breakers / overload

(011) 879 6600

(011) 444 7971

(011) 677 2500

(011) 386 0000

0027 21 557 6572

(011) 683 0641

(011) 452 1415

(011) 879 2000

086 167 7672

(011) 872 5500 (011) 824 7400

(011) 874 7600

(011) 254 6400

(011) 894 8341

(010) 202 3300

(010) 202 5000

(011) 396 8000


june 2013

D18 tools of the trade

ONE of the UK’s leading test and product certi-fication providers is using the versatile HAL 103 multi-function safety tester from Clare, benefit-ting from the tester’s multi-function capability and portability. Clare is represented in South Africa by Test Instruments Africa (TIA).

TÜV SÜD undertakes safety testing of electrical items ranging from IT, telecommunications and white goods through to brown goods, laboratory products and medical devices, both in its own laboratories and at manufacturers’ premises.

This often involves scheduling testing at short

Portable tester with multi-function capabilitynotice anywhere in the country to ensure prod-ucts comply with relevant safety standards and are safe for use by customers once they leave the factory gate.

Previously, engineers had to use three separate testers to carry out earth bond, insulation resist-ance and HiPOT (flash) testing.

Now, in a move that has seen TÜV SÜD replace its older, much less portable, testers, the com-pany is using two portable HAL 103 units, which enable its team of 18 engineers to move quickly from site to site undertaking three important

electrical safety tests using a single portable instrument.

Safety compliance manager, Richard Poate, based at the company’s Fareham headquarters, said the Clare HAL 103 is an excellent tester, delivering time-saving benefits.

“The great advantage for us is that the HAL 103 is portable, making it easy to transport to different locations. This enables our engineers to complete test programmes easily and efficiently, while ensuring quality of service is never com-promised,” explains Poate.

“It’s also a very reliable and flexible tester, enabling the operator to simply complete the required tests and accurately record the results all at once, at the press of a button.”

The HAL103 meets the requirements of demanding production line, type testing or electronic design applications – per-forming the complete suite of standard electrical safety tests and allowing full traceability of test results and records via internal data memory storage.

The tester performs earth bond, ac/dc HiPOT (flash) and insulation testing to en-sure the compatibility of Class II electrical products with technical and performance standards.

Tests can be applied individually or in set automatic sequences for repetitive multi-test routines. Test specifications can be quickly configured into the tester by scan-ning in pre-defined bar codes, making the equipment ideal for ISO traceable systems in QA, conformance and production line applications. These pre-defined bar codes can be generated directly from the tester on adhesive labels or from proprietary Microsoft PC applications.

The HAL 103 has selectable 50 or 60 Hz output frequencies for flash testing and incorporates a 40A constant current low voltage ground bond test. Other features include a large high contrast bar graph display of the mOhm value from 0 to 1 000 and of the programmed output current in Amps.

Specialist software and a large capac-ity internal database capable of storing up to 6 000 records gives the test instru-ment the ability to store test details and results against individual equipment serial numbers. Test reports can be downloaded directly to a PC or printer for the genera-tion of complete test data records.

The instrument is fully compatible with the requirements of the EN 50191 standard on test environments.

Enquiries:(011) 608-8541

KNIPEX offers a cable stripper that strips large round ca-bles exceeding 25mm in diameter. “This incredible tool removes all kinds of insulation layers and is suitable for longitudinal and circular cutting,” explains Garry Lumpe. He adds that the cutting depth can be adjusted up to 5.0mm. This robust, one-of-a-kind tool is hard-wearing and the blades can be replaced once worn. “Using this tool is also a lot safer than using a conventional knife,” he says.

Enquiries: (011) 425-4265

Look at this stripper


june 2013


june 2013

T20 tools of the trade

POOR power quality causes not only physical damage to equipment but also results in downtime, which, in turn, lowers productivity. Major Tech’s Werner Grobblaar says using the K6305 power quality analyser “is as easy as 1-2-3 – all you have to do is set up the instrument, check the wiring and record!”

He says Major Tech’s new rugged com-pact power meter offers 3PH four-wire, 3PH three-wire or single-phase multi-function measurements for recording and analysing power systems.

“This meter can be used for various wiring systems and can measure up to three systems on a single-phase two-wire circuit. It can be used for measure-ments of instantaneous, integrated or demand values,” he explains, adding that the K6305 has an automatic wiring check function to prevent incorrect connections.

“The meter will check the connec-tions and display the results on the LCD screen while a wide selection of clamp sensors allows measurements from 0.1A to 3 000A,” he says, “and the instrument automatically recognises what kind of clamp sensor is connected to it.”

The K6305 meter has large memory

Improved analysis of power quality and energy loss calculations

THE palm-sized Makita HP1230 Impact drill is com-pact and lightweight and will satisfy the needs of profes-sionals in small contracting and shop fitting businesses.

With a length of 239mm and a net weight of only 1.4kg this compact drill is easy to control and highly manoeuvrable in confined spaces.

Fitted with the appropriate drill bit, the heavy duty tool has the capacity to drill, drive and screw into steel, wood and masonry.

A powerful motor deliv-ers a continuous rating input of 400W and provides a drill speed of up to 2900r/min and impact action up to 31900i/min (impacts per minute). A sturdy aluminium gear housing and cylinder-shaped motor housing protects the tool from being damaged, while the double in-sulation guards against possible

Small tool with big punch

INSTROTECH is the local designer and manufacturer of a powerful, multi-functional temperature calibrator. The high-precision, hand-held CALOG-TEMP, calibrates process control instrumentation.

It simultaneously measures and sources ten types of ther-mocouples and seven resistance temperature detectors (RTD).

It measures milliamps whilst sourcing or simulating millivolts, TCs, RTDs or ohms to calibrate transmitters.

The logging facility stores data on the SD card supplied, which

New temperature calibratoris easily downloaded to a PC via the on-board USB port and usable in most of the common spreadsheet formats.

The trend feature is ideal for graphing temperature profiles and PID controller optimisation with a programmable timebase.

In addition, the CALOG-TEMP can install and maintain all powered and non-powered transducers using the built-in 24V loop power supply.

The CALOG-TEMP is an eco-nomical solution for industrial field and workshop calibration.

Enquiries: (011) 462-1920

capabilities and can store up to 2GB. Measured data can be saved on a SD card or the internal memory and the data can be transmitted to PC via USB or Bluetooth. Meas-ured data can be checked on Android devices in real-time by using the Bluetooth func-tion. Free Android software ‘Kew smart 6305’ supporting Android Ver2.2-3.2 is avail-able at the Google Play Store.

He says the K6305 complies with IEC61010-1 and CAT III 600V safety standards. It in-cludes power and energy measurement features such as voltage (True RMS), cur-rent (True RMS), active power, apparent power, reactive power, active energy, apparent energy, reactive energy, power factor (cosθ), frequency, demand measurement and current flowing on the neutral line (only on three-phase, four-wire measurements).

The standard accessories include: K7141 (four piece voltage test lead set); K7185 (three 500A CTs); K7148 (USB cable); K7170 (power cord); K9125 (carry case); 2GB SD card; Kew Windows PC

software; six batteries; and the ‘Quick’ manual. Optional accessories include the K8124, K8125, K8126, K8127 and K8128 clamp sensors; K8129 flexible clamp sensor; K8132 power supply adaptor; and the K9132 carry case with magnet.

“Major Tech’s K6305 easy-to-use power meter effectively helps to locate, predict, prevent and troubleshoot problems in power distribution systems and is a must-have in every electrician’s toolkit.”

Enquiries: (011) 872-5500

electric shock.The HP1230 replaces the leg-endary NHP1030 compact drill and also features variable speed control as well as forward and reverse function.

An ergonomically-designed handle fits into the palm of a hand providing the operator with precise control of the tool for the job at hand.

With a neck diameter of 43mm, this drill can be at-tached to a Type 43 drill stand, available as an optional extra, effectively turning the tool into a ‘mini’ drill press.

Enquiries: (011) 878-2600


june 2013

Ttools of the trade 21

The Softfinish electric WihaXeno screwdriver is a special VDE screwdriver used to turn terminal screws. Garr Lumpe explains that terminal screws are typically used in switch-cabinet systems and fuse boxes, terminal blocks and relays. “They have special combination profile and are available as flat/Phillips or flat/Pozidrive models,” he says, adding that WihaXeno screwdrivers contain the “world-famous slim technology where VDE blades are 33% narrower to allow access to all terminal blocks”. WihaXeno screwdrivers are made of high quality chrome-vanadium-molybdenum steel and carry a lifetime warranty.

Enquiries: (011) 425-4265

VDE screwdrivers with a lifetime guarantee

Tailor-made tool kits

MAJOR Tech specialises in tools, tool kits and tool cases for electricians, datacom, telecom, field service and service electronic kits for the hobby-ist or the professional and is able to create tailor-made tool kits to clients’ exact specifications.

“Major Tech has tool kits in a variety of different configurations to choose from. For example, field service technicians are often called upon to service different types of machinery and equipment and Major Tech has put together an electricians’ tool kit – the TKC3-9 – that includes the most popular tools: combination pliers, diagonal cutting pliers, long nose pliers and a compound diagonal cutter – all tested and approved up to 1 000V,” says Werner Grobbelaar.

The pliers feature guaranteed cutting edge hardness suitable for both hard and soft wire with superb ergonomic handles. The tool kit also includes a 38mm cable shear, utility knife, 160mm wire stripper, 5m tape measure, 200mm adjustable spanner, 140mm neon screwdriver tester, 100g hammer, 150mm junior hacksaw and a seven-piece 1 000V screw-driver set that is fully insulated for professional use up to 1 000V.

TelecomsThese days, Telecom technicians must be prepared for new technolo-gies, standards and techniques. “It is for this reason that Major Tech has designed the affordable TKC3-127 Telecoms kit, specifically for the instal-lation, maintenance and troubleshooting of both existing and newer telephone networks. Whether for voice, data or a combination of systems, the TKC3-127 is loaded with the kind of specialty telecom tools techni-cians need and expect.”

Plant engineers“Plant MRO professionals know that without the right tools, the line could be shut down – a costly prospect in today’s just-in-time manufacturing environment,” warns Grobbelaar. “This is why Major Tech designed the TKC4-1256 plant engineers’kit specifically for demanding manufacturing plant, industrial maintenance and MRO situations. The TKC4-1256 is also a great choice for automotive or industrial applications.”

Network techniciansNetwork technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting complex voice and data networks. With the integration of newer, faster, and more complex network technologies into existing older networks, the network technician has to be more flexible than ever.

“Major Tech’s network toolkit, the TKC3-128, accommodates a range of cabling types, termination and connector systems. And everything fits neatly into a well-organised, space-saving storage case. The MT1881 industrial digital multimeter with a 0.09% basic accuracy that is dust resist-ant and waterproof can be added on request,” he explains.

“From basic tool kits to the most extensive electronics tool kits, Major Tech has a large selection for almost every need. Professionals rely on their tools to make a living and this is why Major Tech features only the best in brand name tools and test equipment,” says Grobbelaar.

Enquiries: (011) 872-5500

THE safety of employees working at height is assured when using advanced fall protection solutions, such as the Evotechindustrial harness, which is available in the local market through the African division of MSA.

MSA Africa product manager for fall protection, Em-manuel Manaka, says the Evotechfull body industrial harness offers the latest design features that improve comfort, ease of use, durability and user safety.

“Comfort is an essential criterion for workers that are suspended at height for prolonged periods, and the MSA Evotechharness comes standard with breathable padding complete with moisture wicking material to keep the user cooler, especially in the harsh African climate,” he explains.

“The MSA Evotechharness also boasts a sub-pelvic strap with patented variable width webbing, which provides 50% more surface area for improved weight distribution

Advanced harness improves worker comfort and safety

and comfort. “The elimination of a binding edge on the shoulder padding prevents neck chafing, while a patent-pending leg strap design keeps leg straps in place for increased mobility and comfort, and leg strap padding offers additional comfort during work positioning.”

“Colour contrasting thigh and torso straps allow for sim-plified donning, while single hand torso buckles simplify harness adjustment. A built-in RFID chip ensures that the harness can be easily tracked and inspected at any time, while a three-position back D-ring allows for easy lanyard connection.”

The harness is abrasion resistant, repels dirt, grease and moisture and has reflective webbing i to increase visibility in low light environments. standard in four different harness versions to ensure that the correct protection is being provided,” concludes Manaka.

Enquiries: (011) 610-2637


june 2013


june 2013

tions, this voltage will be converted to a digital value by an analogue-to-digital converter: LEM has equipped the HLSR with an internal voltage reference of 1.65 or 2.5V, made available on a dedicated pin for use by an external device such as A/D con-verter, for example, or designers can choose to use an external reference from 0.5 to 2.65V. The voltage reference is just one feature of the new ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) that LEM’s designers created for this development, which enables the HLSR series to deliver typical accuracy of ±1% at +25°C, and ±3.4% at 105°C, with a bandwidth of 100kHz (-3dB). LEM offers versions that operate from either +3.3 or + 5V single supplies.

LEM packaged the five models of the HLSR series in a com-pact and innovative outline that occupies only 387mm2 of PCB area representing less surface than many solutions based on re-sistive shunts. Variants of the package cater for either surface-mount or through-hole connection of both primary conductor path and signal/power connections. The low-profile package weighs just 5.5g, and is less than 12mm high.

Safe measurements are assured with a high level of insulation between primary and measurement circuitry thanks to long

creepage and clearance distances (8mm as standard and 14mm on request), and a comparative tracking index (CTI) of 600. HLSR transducers are CE marked, conform to the EN


THE electronic HSA 205 non-contact voltage detector from DEHN has an integrated self-testing element. The self-test is performed automatically after switching on the detector.

HSA 205 is designed for switchgear installations and high-voltage overhead lines to test for the safe isolation from the supply voltage without making contact.

The HSA 205 is suitable for nominal voltages in the range 1 to 420kV / 50Hz. It operates on a 9V block battery that is simply inserted into the battery compart-ment by releasing the screws and removing the indicator.

Readiness for operation is indicated by a green flashing light and acoustic signal with increased frequency. A red flashing light and acoustic signal with increased frequency shows that voltage is present. HSA 205 can be used in wet weather conditions.

The operating head of the HSA 205 non-contact voltage detector is fitted with a yellow switching ring that is used to set the required nominal voltage range, either 1 to 30kV, to 220kV or 110 to 420kV.

The transparent insulating cap must be used for the voltage range 1 to 30kV. Provided that the insulating tube and cap of the non-contact voltage detector are in a dry and clean condi-tion, the minimum distance can be reduced for nominal voltages up to 30kV. If these conditions cannot be ensured, the minimum distance must be maintained.

DEHN is represented locally by Surgetek.Enquiries: (011) 792-1303

Electronic non-contact voltage detector for nominal voltages

LEM introduces its new HLSR series of current transducers that provide a cost effective and technically superior alternative to resistive shunt/optocoupler configurations for insulated current measurements up to 50A.

The five new HLSR transducers will satisfy application require-ments in, for example:

Industrial inverters and motor drives; switch-mode and uninterruptible power supplies; specialist power supplies such as welding units; air conditioning; home appliances; and also in renewable-energy systems, for example, in solar combiner boxes and in solar inverters to track the maximum-power-point (MPPT).

LEM’s HLSR series uses open-loop Hall-effect current sensing technology, to measure ac, dc or pulsed currents with nominal values of 10, 20, 32, 40 or 50 ARMS. LEM’s proven expertise in open-loop Hall-effect technology allows these devices to achieve a response time of only 2.5μs, with very low gain and offset drift over their operating temperature range of -40 to +105°C.

HLSR transducers deliver their output as an analogue voltage proportional to the primary measured current. In most applica-

Low-cost 50A current transducers improve on shunt measurement techniques

50178 standard for industrial applications, and are granted of a five-year warranty.

Key Points:• Open Loop Hall-effect devices measure up to 50ARMS ac, dc

or pulsed current.• Fast response time and high accuracy, with low offset and

gain drifts.• Wide temperature range of -40 to 105°C.• Surface-mount or through-hole package design provides

high insulation.Enquiries: (011) 626-2023


june 2013

E24 energy measurement and supply

EFFECTIVE immediately, EMpro energy me-ters from Phoenix Contact have UL 61010-1 approval for the US market.

Energy measuring devices with UL approval

Chieta’s Artisan Skills competition gets a helping hand

The second round of the Chemical Industries Educational Training Authority (CHIETA) Nation-al Artisan Skills competition was hosted by the Nuclear Energy Corporation South Africa(NECSA) in Pelindaba in February when candidates competed in theoretical and practical project as-sessments. Voltex Pretoria North and VoltexLSis showed their support for this inaugural competi-tion and sponsored all the components used by young electricians competing in the electrician trade section of the competition. From left to right: Benjamin Murphy (Voltex Pretoria North), Trevor Channing (CHIETA group governance executive), Lindiwe Mazibuko (CHIETA artisan development administrator), Tshidi Magonare (CHIETA artisan development manager), Johan Hattingh (VoltexLSis), Danny Motlauthi (Nuclear Energy Corporation South Africa), Nick du Plessis (P & T Technology – chief moderator – skills competition) and Nick Gerber (Voltex North East region).

Enquiries: (012) 330-0211

THE Zest WEG Group has moved into new fit for purpose premises in Omuramba Road, Montague Gardens, in a move that Gary Daines, Zest WEG Group’s sales and marketing director, says has positioned the group for robust future growth as the Cape Town team takes advantage of the many opportunities coming to the fore in the area.

The new Zest West Group Cape office, not too far from its previous site also in Montague Gardens, features 3 300m2 under roof and incorporates a training centre/auditorium accommodating about 70 people, warehousing, a drives and automation service centre, administrative offices and a staff canteen. The size and layout of the site has greatly improved logistical

flow, with ample space for goods trucks to park and unload.

“Customers are already benefit-ting from access to an increased stockholding and a broader range of products, as well as from the en-hanced training and meeting room facilities,” says Daines. “Although our Cape office is geared to serve the local drives and automation market, it is also being strategi-cally prepared to contribute to the growth of the entire group.

In addition to the new premises, Zest WEG Group’s substantial investment into corporate growth in the area includes the establish-ment a few years ago of a dedi-cated generator set manufacturing facility and the EML warehouse, both in Epping.”

Enquiries: (011) 723-6000

Move positions group for future growth in Cape

Power Process Systems (PPS) recently appointed Bianca Hat-tingh, (above) as debtor's clerk, and Ivan Bantjes, (below) as sales representative.

New industry appointments

The network-capable meters acquire and monitor the characteristic electrical data of machines and systems.

The devices can be ex-panded with communica-tion and function modules to meet the requirements of an extensive energy management system, ensuring future-proof planning and investment. A Web server, integrated in the Ethernet expan-sion modules, facilitates convenient online

configuration and remote access to the most important electrical parameters.

This family of measuring devices offers the optimum solution for each and every measurement task: From the simple meas-urement of local loads using the compact, DIN rail-mounted EMpro MA250 device, to measuring tasks in power supply applications up to 700V ac with the EMpro MA600 device for front panel mounting. The meters can be flexibly equipped with additional function and communication modules for expand-ing plants and systems. These modules can be simply integrated into all of the usual network structures via a communication

interface: with RS485/Ethernet gate-way with Web server, RS485, JBus and Modbus RTU, as well as Profibus DP and Profibus DSUB.

This means that the most important measured energy values are now centrally available in the main control room. These values range from current and power measurements up to the measurement of harmonics and trend calculations for production systems.

Enquiries: (011) 801-8200


june 2013


DENVER Technical Products now offer current unbalance detectors says Mervyn Stocks. The Model 2722 is designed to monitor three-phase ac current or compare three single-phase ac currents.

“A solid-state electronic sensing circuit drives an internal relay, which energises dur-ing normal, balanced conditions,” explains Stocks, adding that an unbalanced condition will cause the relay to “drop out”.

The Model 2722 accepts current inputs of up to 5A and will consider zero amps as bal-anced, making the device suitable for use with three-phase heaters.

Adjustments are available for percent of unbalance and time delay before tripping. The unit will automatically reset on restoration of correct current balance, or a normally-closed momentary switch can be connected for a manual reset. External CTs can be used to extend the operating current range.

Applications include the protection of mo-tors, detection of open circuit of three-phase heating elements, burnt out lamps and any industrial process where phase balance is important.

Enquiries: (011) 626-2023

Current unbalance detectors to protect motors

FLUKE, represented in southern Africa by the Comtest Group, has come up with a solution to the new energy efficiency regulations for buildings which came into effect in November 2011. Called SANS 204:2011 and SANS 10400-XA:2011 they relate to:• Energy efficiency in buildings • Environmental sustainability, and • Energy usage in buildingsThe achievement of savings in energy consumption is a national imperative in South Africa as customers ask what they can do to reduce their energy bills.Fluke has come to the party with a range of test and measurement tools to address the problem:

The answer to new energy efficiency building regulations

• The new 430 series II power analysis which analyses the power quality and calculates how much money is lost to wasted en-ergy;

• The 376 clamp meter to measure current while distinguishing the load;

• P3 range of thermal imagers for scanning the building envelope to build up a base-line picture of the energy lost through poor insulation via doors, windows, roofs, ceiling boards, light fittings, aircondition-ing ducts and pipes.

Once buildings are properly insulated, the need to test and regulate the air quality within increases.

Fluke has a comprehensive range of indoor air quality instruments, the 975 air meter and the 922 airflow meter and the 983 particle counter.

Fluke’s 6000 series portable appliance

testers (PAT) verify the electrical safety and opera-tion of appliances like kettles, TVs, fridges, microwaves, coffee machines and hairdryers to address the final requirement of the section of the regulation that governs the safety of appliances used in buildings.

In the spirit of compliance, Comtest itself has undertaken a comprehensive energy usage analysis of its head offices in Linbro Park, Gauteng, and is systematically seeking solutions to problems encountered in an effort to address energy wastage in its buildings.

Enquiries: (011) 608-8520


june 2013 sparksELECTRICAL NEWS

L26 lighting

LUANDA’S most spectacu-lar feature is probably its horseshoe-shaped mega-bay especially after the recent renovations that transformed the area, which now boasts an exquisite promenade with manicured lawns, palm trees, benches and playgrounds.

To ensure a quality and at-tractive lighting solution for what must be Angola’s most prestigious project to date, BEKA worked closely with the South African architects, Pintoroux, and subsequent-ly Costa Lopes Architects, based in Portugal.

“The BEKA AMBAR 3, a high-performance compact luminaire, equipped with power change-over unit, was specified and supplied for the roadways, as the architects sought an energy saving solution,” explains BEKA’s Paulo Mamede.

“To complete the aesthetically pleasing gardens and surrounds, the BEKA CH Columns were cho-sen, together with the BEKAMAX on BEKA GRP Poles,” he adds.

“The BEKAMAX luminaires were supplied with different temperature lamps to light up the recreational areas, such as the jogging tracks and designated exercise zones, and the more subtlety lit ‘chill’ areas, as the Angolans like to call the areas where refreshment kiosks are situated.”

Designed for the people of Luanda to enjoy, Mamede says the project incorporates running tracks, gym areas and children’s playgrounds with a sprinkle of kiosks. “Its large open areas and lawns are inviting after a long and hot Luanda day and, whether sitting on a bench and soaking in the views or rollerblading on the designated tracks, the Bay project has something for every-one.”

He predicts that the extensive esplanade, overlooked by the imposing Portuguese fortress of Sao Miguel built in 1576, is destined to become Luanda’s main attraction as residents make use of the facilities and enjoy what is “one of the most beautiful city panoramas in Africa”.

Enquiries: (011) 238-0038

The BEKA CH Column was chosen to complete the aesthetically pleasing gardens and surrounds.

Prestigious project at Luanda designed for light enjoyment

AS Eskom warns of electricity short-ages for the winter of 2013, it makes perfect sense to switch to Major Tech’s range of energy efficient secu-rity lights says Werner Grobbelaar.

He says this range of security lights uses less electricity than conven-tional floodlights while providing excellent illumination to deter rob-bers and trespassers.

“The wall mountable SL70L comprises 117 LED lights, which provide maximum illumination for domestic and business use. It has an adjustable 180˚ PIR sensor that detects motion up to 12m, while the

timer can be set from 5 seconds to 4 minutes,” he explains.

The SL70L features an on-off func-tion and the plastic casing conforms to the IP44 weatherproof standard.

The SL224L (2 x 24W) and SL124L (1 x 24W) CFL security lights with LED night light come with a 10 x 0.07W LED night light that works when the PIR sensor is inactive.

“For coastal conditions, Major Tech offers the durable SLA241 and SLA242 security lights with an IP44 aluminium metal casing that’s rust proof and corrosion resistant.”

Enquiries: (011) 872-5500

The future of energy efficient security lighting

PHILIPS is continuing its programme of installing over a hundred ‘Community Light Centres’ across Africa with the announce-ment of six new centres in South Africa.

CEO of Philips, Frans van Houten, was recently in Cape Town to co-chair the World Economic Forum. During his visit, Van Houten met with the South African Minister of Energy, Dipuo Peters, to conclude an agreement that will see Philips donating two Community Light Centres to the South African Department of Energy. The two centres will be allocated to communities that would benefit from solar LED lighting – usually rural communities lacking access to electricity.

The meeting took place in the Cape Town suburb, Walmer Estate, where an additional Community Light Centre has been erected by Philips at a local football club.

Six new ‘Light Centres’ to extend play time at nightIn addition to these three centres, Philips,

in partnership with SuperSport Let’s Play and Hitachi Construction Machinery SA, recently completed projects at Dumisa Public School near Ladysmith, LebowaKgomo in Mpu-malanga and in Gauteng at the Lion Park Primary School.

The Light Centres are about 1 000m2 – or the size of a small soccer pitch – and are lit using a new generation of efficient solar powered LED lighting.

The Light Centres create areas of light for rural communities that live without electrici-ty, effectively ‘extending the day and extend-ing play’ creating numerous opportunities for social, sporting and economic activities in the evening. Philips has committed an investment of €1.2 million (spread over three years) to this project.

The Light Centres are predominantly

focused on schools that are closely linked to rural areas and towns in off-grid or semi-grid areas. They provide light for communal areas, which can be used for sport and many other activities – healthcare, education, so-cial, and commerce – and effectively extend the day by enabling communal life after the sun has set.

“Africa is starting a new reliable solar powered LED lighting revolution that will save energy and provide more light for those without electricity,” says Andre Deh-mel, GM Philips Lighting Africa. “Dramatic advances are being made in the efficiency of LED lighting and this is going to speed up social and economic development across the continent.”

For more information about the Philips Cape Town to Cairo Road show, go to http://www.philipsafricaroadshow.com/

Enquiries: (011) 471-5000

The BEKAMAX on BEKAPOLE.

http://www.philipsafricaroadshow.com/

http://www.philipsafricaroadshow.com/


june 2013

Llighting 27

NTL-Lemnis public lighting has introduced the newest streetlight developed from the com-pany’s pioneering concept for the illumination of public spaces.

“With the introduction of a true sustainable LED public lighting solution, NTL-Lemnis has created a LED light which perfectly matches the light sensitivity of the human eye in evening and night-time conditions”, says Francois van Tonder, managing director of NTL-Lemnis Africa.

“This provides for better visibility at much lower energy levels than used before, combined

Better visibility using less energy

with even spectral distribution characteris-tics and low glare factor – a Dutch discovery that has brought about a breakthrough in sustainable public lighting.”

He says NTL Lemnis’lighting systems offer a significant contribution to sustainability, energy conservation and the reduction of CO2 emissions. These ground breaking LED pubic lighting solutions do away with traditional wasteful public lighting instal-lations and are applied in projects from public roads to residential neighbourhoods and parking lots to areas where light pollu-tion must be limited to a minimum, such as natural park areas and the countryside.

Mesopic light“The relatively low light levels provided by public lighting in general, mean that the human eye is primarily more sensitive to green and blue light than red light. For this reason, the NTL-Lemnis lights contain more green and blue, while red is added for improved colour perception with a good distribution over the colour spectrum referred to as the S/P ratio (the ratio over the scotopic to photopic range of light),” explains Van Tonder.

“Because the rods (+/-120 million) and cones (+/-50 million) in the human eye are more sensitive to certain light spectrums over varying light conditions, the combi-nation of different colour LED chips (RGB) is applied in this technology to provide optimal recognition at 507nm wavelength (Mesopic range), as opposed to providing for a daylight spectrum of 550nm (Photopic range).

“The result is a light that provides optimal visibility at the point where it is needed and the eyes are most sensitive. This enables users of roads and public areas at night to have a farther range of sight than before, with more contrast and excellent colour recognition. Even through security surveillance cameras the improvement is considerable.

“Utilising the principal of high S/P ratio for maximising energy savings, NTL-Lemnis provides four standard light colours for outdoor lighting, each one optimal for its own application. The RGB light sources do not contain any fluorescent powders or phosphors – a key advantage for longevity of the light sources,” he continues.

The RGB light sources used in the pharox®LED Nicole streetlightThe pharox®LED‘Nicole’ luminaire fits all lamp-posts, while the light source compart-ment is accessible as is the casing for the driver compartment, which offers sufficient space for optional dimming equipment and surge protection devices of 600V. By using an ‘anti-fouling’ powder coating, dirt build-up is limited to a minimum.

“The driver used provides constant lumen output (CLO), thus ensuring that the light sources receive the same constant supply regardless of fluctuation in supply or even-tual degradation of the light sources over time. This means that the same amount of light is guaranteed over 80 000 hours,” he says.

Key Features• The aluminium body is manufactured of the

most corrosion resistant aluminium alloy for operation in ambient to 5O°C.

• An IP66 rated lamp and gear compartment prevents any ingress of dust or humidity.

• The driver compartment is easy to open. A neoprene gasket keeps moisture and dust from entering the compartment. A special plug is used to make sure that the light source compartment cannot ‘breathe’ and it is totally

separate from the driver compartment. The LEDs are connected through a special Unica-ble M12 plug.

• The dimmable MeanWell driver is IP67, cast in resin and SELV–galvanically separated. The driver is exchangeable. There is enough space to add dimmer and 600V surge protection de-vices.

• NTL-Lemnis rates an expected lifetime of 20 years or 80000 hours, backed by a standard seven year manufacturer warranty.

• Available in wattages ranging from 10W to

56W with a wide input supply of 170V to 240V and 0.95PF (24W version also available in 12V to 48V supply input).

• The PharoxLED Nicole is designed for pole height installation of 6 to 12m.

• Fully certified and accredited by TUV, ENEC, VDE, KEMA Keur, RoHS and meets required IEC directives.

• NTL-Lemnis strives for an accelerated transition from conventional lighting to a sustainable and high quality alternative, based on LEDs.

Enquiries:(012) 003 1020


june 2013

The ninth Illumination Engineering Society of South Africa (IESSA) Annual Congress and AGM was held at the Indaba Hotel in Fourways, Gauteng from 12 to 15 May. The theme of the congress was ‘Freedom in Lighting’ and 14 speakers presented papers to the delegates covering various topics, ranging from LED technology and compulsory specifications to digital lighting solu-tions, colour rendering and light sources. The conference ended with a lively panel discussion, ‘Is an open market threatening established business?’

IESSA Conference 2013

Professor Wilhelm Leuschner (University of Pretoria) receives his award for the best presentation at the IESSA

conference from Chris Yelland (EE Publishers).

Natasha Nel Sakharova (IESSA), Enock Zikalala (BEKA) and Clive Beeton (LCI).

Greg Marcia presents Patrick Stuckie (Eurolux) with his certificate on becoming a fellow of IESSA.

Lighting Innovations’ Don Bedggood (IESSA development committee – Johannesburg branch)

receives his certificate on being made a fellow of IESSA from Greg Marcia.

Representing eThekwini Municipality are Virendra Ramprith, Craig Smith and Dereck Currie who is also the chairperson of IESSA

Durban branch.

Lighting Innovations’ Don Bedggood (IESSA development committee – Johannesburg branch), Rob Henderson (Eskom),

Greg Marcia (Giantlight) and Trevor Milne (Tridonic).

Donna Coghill (Reeflite), Clive Beeton (Luminaire Component Industries); Patrick Stuckie (Eurolux), Gert Hoffman (ABB) and (back)

Kurt Lsele (Lightnet).

Kamil Hendriks, Michael Mangena and Dillon Roberts who represented the National Regulator for Compulsory

Standards (NRCS).

Chris Brown (Venture Lighting) and Valdi Pereira (Nordland Lighting).

Derek Watson (BEKA) receives his certificate on being made a fellow of the society from

Greg Marcia at the IESSA conference.


june 2013

Llighting 29

AURORA’S ground-breaking CrystalCoolTM lamps use nanotechnology to produce a smaller, lighter and more efficient light source.

LEDs generate significant amounts of heat in order to produce light. To date, accepted technology reduces heat via a large thermal heatsink, which cools the lamp to maintain thermal management. To increase lumen performance from the same size of lamp, either more LEDs or larger LEDs are required which results in an even larger heatsink.

Now, Aurora has developed a new solution called CrystalCool that uses nanocrystals to transform the heat released by an LED into infrared radiation. For a cooler operating temperature, the crystals rapidly and efficiently dissipate heat away from the light source, cooling the lamp from a hot 95°C to a comparatively

Cool LEDs use heat dissipation technology

cool 70°C.CrystalCool’s effective thermal management

delivers additional lumen performance from the same physical size lamp and it’s possible to reduce the heat sink by 50%.

As a result, CrystalCool lamps are more efficient, both in energy usage and cost; and lamps of similar lumen performance can now be packaged into a smaller size.

How is all this achieved? Instead of using an aluminium substrate, the CrystalCool lamps use a specially designed, ceramic substrate that con-ducts heat away from the LED chip. The Crystal-Cool range of both lamps and luminaires provides solutions for both domestic and commercial

applications and includes direct replacements for high performance MR16, GU10 and PAR16 halogen lamps.

The PAR16 8.5W LED offers an impressive 500 Lumens with an efficacy of 58 Lumens per Watt.

CrystalCool lamps are fully dimmable and have a high Colour Rendering Index (CRI) of 80, combined with a four-year guarantee and an average lifespan of 50000 hours to 70% lumen maintenance. They are the opti-mum solution for enclosed or semi-enclosed luminaires where best possible thermal management is crucial.

For larger installations where an alternative to con-ventional compact fluorescent downlights is desirable, Aurora’s CrystalCool LED downlight is available at 13W, 19W or 320W.

The shallow fitting allows installation into ceilings with a reduced void depth or those filled with other mechanical and electrical services.

All products carry a four-year guarantee and an aver-age lifespan of 50000 hours. They still deliver a lumen maintenance of at least 70% light output after the guarantee period.

CrystalCool’s evolution in thermal management has been recognised by over 65 international patents and applications covering LED packaging, manufacturing processes, radiativenano-film and infrared ceramic heat dissipation methods.

Information supplied by Aurora. Enquiries: (011) 234-4878

EBDHS is an increased performance PIR pres-ence detector from CP Electronics, developed for lighting control in areas with demanding spaces and increased mounting heights. It is responsive to the constant shift of people’s lighting needs by being programmable and adjustable to produce an exceptionally accurate detection beam.

With a mounting height of up to 20m, the pres-ence detector has a lens technology that allows high sensitivity within the detection range. It has a detachable sensor head and a switched or dim-ming (analogue, DSI, DALI) options.

Ideal for high bay applications, the presence de-tector’s minimum dimmed level provides low-level light output for health and safety requirements. Additional features include adjustable masking shields to tailor detection zones, a burn-in mode for fluorescent tubes, and a verify mode that reduces false triggering by ensuring detection from more than one of the internal sensors.

All functionality is fully programmable using either CP Electronics’ UHS5 or UNLCDHS handsets.

CP Electronics is represented locally by Shorrock Automation.

Enquiries: (012) 345-4449

Presence detector ideal for high bay applications

Schneider Electric South Africa, has announced the appointment of Eleonore Hurault, who will fill the role as marketing and communications (marcom) manager in its IT Business Unit.

Enquiries: (011) 254-6400

New marcoms manager


june 2013

L30 lighting

OSRAM South Africa is the first to introduce the new energy saving alternative in lighting for the average consumer, whilst phasing out the incandescent range of lamps,” says Robbie Kreymborg, GL head at OSRAM South Africa.

“The ban on incandescent lamps – due to their high energy consumption – has already been enforced in Europe. There is talk about banning incandescent lamps in South Africa and although there is speculation about when it will take effect locally, nothing has been confirmed as yet,” he explains.

“OSRAM has taken the first step in phasing The New Halogen Eco range from OSRAM.

Energy saving alternatives to incandescent lampsout incandescent technology and replacing it with our new Halogen Eco range.

With up to 30% energy savings and a price that is easy on the pocket, OSRAM’s new Halo-gen Eco household lamp range is bound to be the next best thing,”says Kreymborg.

“Consumers who did not like compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) as an energy saving alternative because of the different look and feel of CFLs when compared to the usual household globe, will be impressed with the OSRAM Halogen Eco range because it looks, feels and performs the same as its

predecessor, the incandescent lamp. But the major differences are that the OSRAM Halogen Eco range saves up to 30% in energy and has double the lifetime,” says Kreymborg.

“OSRAM Halogen Eco lamps are offered with a two year lifetime warranty, and all lamps are dimmable. They come in all the usual house-hold lamp shapes and sizes – from the house-hold lamp shape to golfballs to candles, as well as the R50 and R60 reflector lamps.”

Nationwide launchOSRAM began launching the Halogen Eco

range in May during a nationwide promotion in participating retail stores.

“The promotion at the OSRAM Halogen Eco instore displays features a competition for consumers with fantastic prizes up for grabs – including a cruise for two to the Portuguese Islands,” says Kreymborg, who adds that further information on the competition can be found online at www.osrampromotions.co.za.

“We at OSRAM are convinced that, if everyone welcomes energy saving technologies into their homes and rejects energy-consuming products, we’ll be well on our way to a greener future – maybe quicker than we think,” says Kreymborg.

Enquiries: (011) 207-5600

IN a world where heavy industry is increasingly focusing on carbon emissions and the role that they can play in reducing this, Acrylic Art, a proud partner of the First Tech Group, has announced in-novative ‘environmentally-friendly’ products which provide the perfect solution to companies looking to take the first step towards a ‘greener’ future.

“Where you need the electrical source in a pole, we customise or custom-build the product.

The ‘green aspect’ is in its infancy stage, however, we offer what the developer requires,” says Cobus van der Linde, Acrylic Art divisional executive.

He adds that the company achieves this by incorporating renewable energy elements such as offering products that work with solar panels and wind turbines. “We did an eight metre pole for a client, who required an ‘environmentally-friendly’ pole. We achieved this by attaching conventional sleeper wood around the lighting pole which is powered by a wind turbine. We therefore achieved not only an aesthetically-pleasing product but also a fully functional and environmentally-friendly one for the client.“

Acrylic Art manufactures luminaries and uses energy-efficient light emitting diode (LED) technol-ogy for lighting installations.

Enquiries: 087 310 2230

Perfect solution for greener future

http://www.osrampromotions.co.za

http://www.osrampromotions.co.za


june 2013


june 2013

This publication is distributed to electrical contractors, wholesalers, distributors, OEMs, panel builders, Eskom, mining electricians and consulting engineers (electrical) as well as libraries, members of IESSA, the Institute of Electricians and public utilities.

January to March 2013 Sold 69, free 6 747. Total 6 816

Editor:Erika van ZylConsultant:Ian Jandrell PrEng, BSc(Eng), GDE, PhD, FSAIEE, MIEEEProduction & layout:Colin MazibukoAdvertising:Carin HannayPublisher:Jenny WarwickPublished monthly by:Crown Publications ccP O Box 140Bedfordview, 2008Tel: (011) 622-4770Fax: (011) 615-6108e-mail: [email protected]: www.crown.coza

Printed by:Tandym Print

The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor or the publisher.

JULY FEATURES

Bright Sparks

May solution

Out of the shadowsThe object is a cube, seen from the three directions shown in the illustration.

The lost purse Chris and Eddie were walking along the street when they spotted a purse lying on the pavement. Chris snatched it up and opened it to count the contents. “If I kept this purse,” he said, “I would have twice as much cash on me as I have now.”

Eddie took the purse from him and looked inside . “If I kept it, I would have three times as much money in my pocket as I have now.”

At that moment, a policeman appeared. They quickly handed over the purse, and went off for lunch, on which they spent all the cash they had between them, a total of R12

How much money was in the purse?

P32 people on the move

Stand-alone generator sets, batteries, uninterruptible power supplies, maintenance powerline filtering and testing, emergency wiring and lighting, supplies for computer rooms, hospital supplies, process equipment

STANDBY AND EMERGENCY POWER

Regular topics such as cables, cable accessories, cable management systems, cable sizing, skirting, trunking, conduit, cable trays, cable marking and labelling, cable jointing techniques, wire sizing, fault finding, hazard-ous areas, flameproof, cable terminations, glands, cable installations and trenching will be included.

CABLES AND CABLE ACCESSORIES

Thandekile Nomiah Mhlaba, assistant

administrator.

Bongani Manyathela,

assistant administrator.

Energy Training Foundation

Frikkie Malan,

director for operations.

Energy Cybernetics

Brad Ludewick,

sales engineer, abrasives.

Magnet

Shalendra Barath,

sales engineer, electrical products.

ifm

Chantal Bekker,

financial director, Centurion, Pretoria.

Documents

SA's top artisans take home gold - Crown Publications...artisans and bridge the skills gap. South Africa has a shortfall of about 40 000 qualified artisans, against the annual production