Makita launches compact USB-C battery charger

Makita, a manufacturer of power tools and outdoor equipment, has expanded its battery charging range with the introduction of the DC18SJ, a compact charger compatible with the company's 14.4V and 18V LXT batteries. Designed for use on the move, the charger uses USB-C Power Delivery (USB-PD) technology, allowing batteries to be charged from a range of compatible power sources, including vehicles, portable power banks, and mains power. The DC18SJ supports Makita's full range of 18V LXT batteries and uses a three-stage charging process when powered by either an AC supply or a 12V vehicle power outlet. The charger requires a USB-PD power source capable of delivering between 60W and 100W. Charging times vary depending on battery capacity and available power. Makita says charging can take from 27 minutes for a 1.5Ah battery to 280 minutes for a 12.0Ah battery. Using a 12V vehicle socket with a compatible adapter, a 6.0Ah battery can be fully charged in approximately 145 minutes. Designed for charging on the go The charger incorporates a status indicator with separate LED signals for insufficient power, standby with cooling, charging unavailable, and charging progress. Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita UK, says, "The new DC18SJ offers users a practical, versatile, and efficient charging solution, making it a valuable addition to a professional toolkit. "The charger is also available as part of the 1916H8-8 Power Source Kit LXT, which comes with the ADP14 Adapter with a PD Cable for added practicality." For more from Makita, click here.

Unicrimp expands bootlace ferrule range with new sizes

Unicrimp, a manufacturer of cable accessories and part of the Scolmore Group, has strengthened its bootlace ferrule range with the introduction of two sizes: 16mm and 35mm. These additions build on installer and wholesaler feedback, expanding the range so customers can now access the full spectrum of sizes from one trusted supplier. The introduction of these larger ferrule sizes further enhances Unicrimp’s comprehensive offering, giving electrical professionals an even more practical and convenient solution for terminating multi-stranded cables safely and cleanly. Feedback from the market had consistently identified the absence of 16mm and 35mm sizes within the existing Unicrimp bootlace ferrule offering. In response, Unicrimp has acted to address this gap, ensuring that customers can now source a complete and more practical range from a single, trusted supplier. Key product benefits include: • Improved wire safety • Versatile range of sizes and colours • Provides a clean end termination to multi-stranded cables • Insulating sleeves designed to accept tri-rated cables The new 16mm and 35mm bootlace ferrules are available in Ivory French and Red French finishes, aligning with industry conventions and supporting clear identification during installation. For more information, visit the Unicrimp website or download the Scolmore Group app. For more from Unicrimp, click here.

Ansell Lighting introduces new floodlight for padel courts

Lighting manufacturer Ansell Lighting has expanded its outdoor lighting portfolio with the introduction of Exa-C, a floodlight developed specifically for padel courts. The new luminaire has been introduced as participation in the sport continues to grow across the UK, with the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) reporting around 860,000 players and more than 1,500 courts nationwide. Constructed from low-density aluminium alloy, Exa-C is designed to provide a lightweight solution intended to simplify installation. The floodlight also features precision lenses to control beam distribution and an integrated visor to reduce glare and minimise light spill in built-up areas. Designed for outdoor sports lighting Exa-C carries an IP66 rating for protection against dust and water ingress, making it suitable for outdoor installations. The luminaire is also finished with an AkzoNobel anti-corrosion powder coating to improve durability in exposed environments. Mark Abbott, Managing Director at Ansell Lighting, explains, "Padel has become hugely popular in the last few years [...] so demand for specialised, high-quality lighting has never been higher. "The Exa-C provides better visibility for players and a professional-standard playing environment, along with reliable performance all year round. “As a leading manufacturer, we want to ensure our customers have access to high-performing products they can rely on, and this is a great example of a product that meets a need as well as delivering durability and ease of installation.” For more from Ansell Lighting, click here.

Snickers Workwear partners with Band of Builders

Snickers Workwear, a Swedish manufacturer of professional workwear for the trades, has named Band of Builders as its chosen charity partner, with the two organisations set to work together on initiatives supporting construction workers and their families across the UK. The partnership will include fundraising activities and awareness campaigns, while Snickers Workwear will provide workwear for volunteers carrying out Band of Builders projects nationwide. Band of Builders is a construction charity that provides practical, financial, and wellbeing support to people in the industry affected by illness, injury, or other life-changing circumstances through a network of volunteers. Ben Stacey, UK Sales Manager at Snickers Workwear, says, "The construction industry is built on teamwork, resilience, and looking out for one another. Band of Builders embodies those values every day through the incredible support it provides to people facing difficult circumstances. "We are proud to name Band of Builders as our chosen charity and look forward to working together on a range of initiatives that will make a real difference to construction workers and their families." Supporting construction workers across the UK As part of the partnership, Snickers Workwear will supply workwear for hundreds of volunteers taking part in charity projects, while both organisations will work together to raise awareness of the challenges facing tradespeople and construction professionals. Gavin Crane, CEO of Band of Builders, comments, "We are incredibly proud to be partnering with Snickers Workwear, a brand that is trusted and respected by construction workers across the UK. “At Band of Builders, our mission is simple: to support members of the construction industry and their families when life takes an unexpected turn. Whether that's through practical projects, financial assistance, or wellbeing support, we are there to ensure people don't have to face their challenges alone.” For more from Snickers Workwear, click here.

Understanding earth leakage: Why testing matters more than ever

In this article, learn what earth leakage is, why it matters, and how Kewtech testing equipment helps identify faults, improve safety, and prevent nuisance tripping. Earth leakage testing has become an increasingly critical part of modern electrical verification and maintenance, particularly as installations age and the cumulative effects of leakage currents become more pronounced. With the widespread use of RCDs and RCBOs providing life-saving protection, understanding, identifying, and managing earth leakage is essential to ensure both safety and reliability. What is earth leakage? Earth leakage refers to the unintended flow of electrical current from a circuit to earth. This can occur due to insulation breakdown, damaged conductors, moisture ingress, or faulty equipment. Even in healthy installations, small amounts of leakage are inevitable due to the design of modern electrical equipment. However, while these currents are typically harmless in isolation, their cumulative effect across multiple circuits can create significant issues. RCBOs and nuisance tripping RCBOs and RCDs are designed to detect imbalances between live and neutral conductors and disconnect the supply rapidly, often within milliseconds, when leakage exceeds a set threshold, typically 30mA in domestic settings. This function is crucial in preventing electric shock and reducing the risk of fire. However, these are not selective devices; they respond to total leakage on the circuits they protect. As a result, they can be susceptible to “nuisance tripping” when leakage currents approach their operating threshold without an actual fault being present. An increasing challenge with modern installations This challenge is becoming more common due to two key factors: ageing circuits and the rise of modern electronic loads. Over time, cable insulation degrades, becoming brittle, cracked, or moisture-affected, all of which create pathways for leakage current. These faults are often hidden within walls or under floors, making them difficult to detect without proper testing. In parallel, modern installations now include devices such as LED drivers, EV chargers, electric showers, air-conditioning, and switch-mode power supplies, all of which contribute small but continuous leakage currents. Individually, these leakage currents may only amount to a few milliamps, but when combined across several circuits, particularly on split-load consumer units, they can approach or exceed the protective device’s trip threshold. Cumulative leakage from cable capacitance, appliances, and transient events can easily reach 10–18 mA on a 30mA RCBO or RCD, leaving very little headroom before unwanted tripping occurs. This is especially problematic in older installations where insulation resistance has already declined. The dangers The danger here is twofold. Firstly, nuisance tripping can lead to inconvenience, loss of power, and potential damage to equipment. More critically, it may mask genuine faults or lead to complacency, where users repeatedly reset protective devices without investigating the underlying issue. Secondly, ageing or inappropriate RCDs and RCBOs may fail to operate correctly under certain conditions, either tripping too easily or, more concerningly, failing to trip when required. The solution This is where effective earth leakage testing becomes invaluable. Using an earth leakage clamp meter, such as the KEWTECH KEW2434, allows you to measure leakage currents quickly and non-intrusively. This can be achieved by measuring the leakage on the earthing conductors, or by measuring the unbalanced load on the live and neutral conductors simultaneously. This enables the identification of circuits with elevated leakage without the need to disconnect conductors or disrupt the installation. Testing with a clamp meter provides several advantages. It allows for the assessment of total leakage at the origin, followed by the isolation of individual circuits to pinpoint contributors. It also helps differentiate between acceptable “background” leakage and abnormal levels indicating faults. This is particularly important in modern installations where some leakage is unavoidable, and the goal is to manage it rather than eliminate it entirely. Furthermore, with the vast array of tripping characteristics and types of RCB/RCBO now recommended for various applications; appropriate selection is critical and ‘nuisance tripping’ can be a factor, which is why proper measurements should be taken prior to selection. The takeaway As electrical systems continue to age and the number of leakage-producing devices increases, proactive earth leakage testing is no longer optional but is essential. RCDs/RCBOs remain a cornerstone of electrical safety, but their effectiveness depends on the condition of the installation and the level of leakage present. By incorporating tools such as an earth leakage clamp meter into routine testing, electricians can identify issues early, reduce nuisance tripping, and ensure that protective devices operate as intended, ultimately safeguarding both property and lives. For more from Kewtech, click here.

KNIPEX unveils new tool case for photovoltaics

Hand tools manufacturer KNIPEX has introduced a new tool case for photovoltaic (PV) installations, bringing together a selection of tools designed for working with MC4 and MC4 Evo 2 connectors. The KNIPEX Tool Case for Photovoltaics is intended to provide electricians with the equipment needed for the installation and maintenance of solar systems, with all tools housed in a single, impact-resistant case. At the centre of the kit are the Crimp System Pliers, designed for plug-type connectors used in photovoltaic installations and suitable for cables up to 10mm². The factory-calibrated crimping pressure, together with a pre-installed crimping die and locator, is intended to provide consistent crimps. An additional locator extends compatibility across the MC4 connector series. A selection for photovoltaic installations The case also includes cable shears for cutting copper cables up to 15mm in diameter, along with a Precision Insulation Stripper featuring blades designed for 4.0mm², 6.0mm², and 10.0mm² cable cross-sections commonly used in photovoltaic applications. Also included is the KNIPEX Mounting Tool Set, comprising two assembly tools for tightening housing screw connections and unlocking MC4 and MC4 Evo 2 connectors. The tools feature an integrated magnetic coupling to keep them together during transport, whilst a built-in millimetre scale allows installers to check stripped cable lengths. The Crimp System Pliers are compatible with crimping dies and locators across the KNIPEX 97 49 range, allowing the system to be used for a wider variety of crimping applications. The impact-resistant case features a precision-cut foam insert, with dedicated storage for the supplied tools, additional crimping dies, and locators. For more from KNIPEX, click here.

Knightsbridge launches Helix commercial lighting range

Knightsbridge, a UK manufacturer of wiring accessories and lighting, has expanded its commercial lighting portfolio with the launch of Helix, a modular, non-corrosive lighting range designed for commercial and industrial environments. Developed as an evolution of the company's Torlan range, Helix is suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations. The range comprises three product variants - Helix One, Helix Shift, and Helix Max - offering different levels of functionality while sharing a common modular design intended to simplify installation and maintenance. All Helix fittings are manufactured from anti-corrosive polycarbonate and feature stainless steel clips as standard. Each fitting is rated IP66 and IK10 for protection against dust, water ingress, and impact. Installation features include rear, side, and end conduit entries, detachable terminal blocks, large bracket fixing points, and compatibility with BESA box mounting. Three variants for different applications Helix One is the entry-level option, offering fixed wattage outputs and a 4000K colour temperature. Available in 2ft, 4ft, 5ft, and 6ft versions, the range includes both 230V models and selected 110V variants supplied with a 1m flex and an IP65 junction box. It also supports plug-and-play emergency and microwave sensor modules. Helix Shift adds quad-wattage adjustment and selectable 3000K, 4000K, and 5700K colour temperatures. Available in outputs ranging from 13W to 60W, it also supports plug-and-play emergency and microwave sensor modules. Helix Max is supplied with an integrated corridor sensor offering three-step dimming, alongside quad-wattage adjustment and tri-CCT selection. The range supports optional emergency modules and is available in 4ft, 5ft, and 6ft formats. The Helix range is compatible with accessories used across Knightsbridge's batten and Preceptor linear ranges, allowing installers to use common components across multiple lighting installations. For more from Knightsbridge, click here.

Prevent hazards with the KT1700 single pole tester

In recent years, there has been increasing concern in the industry regarding PEN faults, a specific type of network fault with potentially lethal consequences. Whilst the rise in PEN faults is being acknowledged and investigated, it’s important to note that these are not the only way that hazardous situations - including touch voltage and diverted current flow - are created. In particular, there has been an increasing number of incidents where engineers have come into contact with live metallic parts (e.g. metal casings or equipment) during installation or maintenance activities. These contacts can and have led to fatalities. Touch voltages and diverted currents Touch voltages: This occurs when there is a fault in the system that results in no return path for current (i.e. due to a broken or disconnected earth or neutral, combined with other faulty wiring). As a result, metallic parts (such as a distribution board, boilers, or control panel) that are connected to the electrical earth could be raised to a dangerous potential. Diverted current: This is a more complex fault, where the current may flow through unintended paths (e.g. through earth or neutral conductors). Even though the circuit might appear to be functioning normally, diverted current can present serious dangers. Issues with current safe isolation procedures The current safe isolation procedures in place often do not specifically account for or test for touch voltages and diverted current. Even though the best industry practices for safe isolation and proving dead are followed, these two specific hazards are often overlooked. The proving dead process usually involves opening enclosures or testing electrical terminals to confirm that the equipment is not live. However, this step can be potentially lethal if there is already a touch voltage present. Test before touch: The missing step The concept of ‘Test Before Touch’ is well established and often taught to engineers. However, it’s usually focused on high-voltage equipment and not before entering or touching low-voltage equipment like distribution boards, control panels, pipework, and appliance casings (e.g. boilers or motor casings). In practice, engineers may not always adhere to this guideline, especially when handling parts of the installation that seem to be disconnected or 'dead'; they may neglect to check if there is a touch voltage or diverted current present. The KT1700 for hazard detection When it comes to electrical safety, you should not be guessing. The KT1700 single pole contact voltage tester from Kewtech is your first line of defence against hidden electrical hazards on metalwork and equipment. Make direct contact with metal enclosures, distribution boards, earth bonding, and pipework before you go near them and get a clear, instant warning if hazardous voltages are present. That’s real peace of mind before you touch. Unlike non-contact voltage testers, the KT1700 contact voltage tester delivers reliable voltage and live phase detection, helping you identify increasing network hazards such as PEN faults, diverted neutrals, phenolic breakdown, and touch voltages early. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WtHnELZhRuw[/embed] For more from Kewtech, click here.

Greenwich subway lighting upgraded with Acrospire LED system

British LED lighting manufacturer Acrospire has completed an LED lighting upgrade across 12 pedestrian subways in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, improving visibility and supporting safer public spaces. Delivered in partnership with Greenwich Council and contractor FM Conway, the project replaced ageing lighting installations that had resulted in inconsistent illumination and reduced visibility. The scheme was supported by funding from the Mayor's Energy Efficiency Fund (MEEF). Acrospire carried out lighting surveys and designed bespoke schemes for each location using its VandaWay lighting system. Instead of traditional ceiling-mounted luminaires, the fittings were installed along the upper edges of subway walls and, where appropriate, on railings. The company says this provides more consistent illumination across both walls and walkways, improving visibility while reducing shadowed areas. The lighting designs also accounted for changes between daylight and night-time conditions, with illumination levels tailored to support visibility when entering and leaving each subway. Lighting design tailored to each location According to Acrospire, Bryan Close Subway achieved daytime illuminance levels of more than 300 lux, while night-time lighting was reduced to minimise glare without affecting visibility. At Waterlily Walk, where the subway runs alongside a waterway, the lighting was designed to minimise light spill into the surrounding environment. Ranjit Reehal, Area Sales Manager at Acrospire, comments, "Subways present a unique challenge. It’s not just about lighting the space; it’s about how people feel moving through it. "By improving visibility and removing dark spots, you create an environment where people can see clearly ahead of them, and that has a real impact on confidence and safety." The installation uses vandal-resistant luminaires designed for public environments, with the aim of reducing maintenance requirements and improving long-term reliability. Alongside improving visibility, the move to LED lighting is expected to reduce energy consumption and support the council's wider carbon reduction objectives. For more from Acrospire, click here.

Smart HVAC: From reactive to intelligent

In this exclusive article for ECN, Sadiq Sayed, SVP Digital Energy Software Business at Schneider Electric, explores how AI-powered HVAC optimisation is transforming commercial buildings from reactive, fixed systems into intelligent, self-tuning assets that cut energy waste and improve performance: Commercial buildings rely on HVAC to keep occupants comfortable and air quality on spec. For electrical contractors, the pressure point is delivery: tighter energy targets, tougher compliance expectations, and more variable loads mean clients want upgrades that can be installed cleanly, commissioned faster, and proven in operation, without ripping and replacing whole systems. That’s where data‑driven HVAC optimisation comes in. Using existing BMS signals, added metering and sensors where needed, plus analytics/AI and digital twins, contractors can help shift sites from fixed schedules and reactive call‑outs to continuous, predictive performance. Done well, it cuts energy and carbon, flags faults earlier, improves uptime, and reduces repeat visits - all while keeping comfort steady. A new generation of intelligent HVAC systems Traditional approaches to HVAC management are no longer enough. Most commercial buildings still operate on fixed schedules and static setpoints, with little consideration for real-time occupancy, weather fluctuations, or equipment health. Over 30% of HVAC consumption is estimated to be unnecessary, resulting in wasted energy and missed opportunities for optimisation. At the same time, facility teams are being asked to do more with less. The building technology skills gap is widening, regulations are tightening, and there is an increased need for more flexible spaces in line with changing business needs. In this context, AI-powered HVAC optimisation is not just a technological upgrade; it’s non-negotiable. AI optimisation for HVAC systems AI brings a new level of intelligence to HVAC operations. By continuously analysing data from sensors, weather feeds, occupancy patterns, and asset health, AI algorithms can predict and adjust system behaviour in real time. They learn the unique rhythms of each building, predicting demand and proactively adjusting setpoints, ventilation rates, and equipment operation. Over time, the AI engine refines its models, learning from every data point to optimise performance. This optimising shift from reactive to adaptive is transformative; buildings become living systems, continuously tuning themselves for efficiency, comfort, and resilience, without constant human oversight. The technology foundation for AI-powered HVAC optimisation AI-powered HVAC optimisation is built on a comprehensive technology stack. At the core are building management systems (BMS), which serve as the nerve centre, aggregating data from HVAC equipment, sensors, smart meters, and other building systems. This foundation enables centralised control and monitoring and is essential for AI integration. Digital twins, or virtual replicas of buildings, are continuously updated with real-world data. AI models simulate HVAC operations within the digital twin, allowing facility managers to test scenarios, predict outcomes, and identify optimal parameters, without impacting actual operations. Digital twins are invaluable for risk-free experimentation and long-term planning. Real-time data integration is another critical component. AI engines ingest data from a wide range of sources, and this continuous data flow enables real-time decision-making, fault detection, and predictive maintenance. Hybrid architectures that combine the strengths of cloud and edge computing are becoming more common. Cloud AI handles large-scale data aggregation and complex analytics, while edge AI delivers real-time responsiveness at the device level. This balance ensures both portfolio-wide optimisation and immediate, local control. Finally, intuitive dashboards and mobile apps empower facility teams with actionable insights, alerts, and performance metrics. Automated work orders, fault diagnostics, and energy analytics streamline operations and simplify maintenance, making advanced HVAC management accessible to teams of all sizes. The path to AI-driven HVAC optimisation The first step is a site audit: what plant is in place, what controls strategy is being used, how is the BMS set up, and where might the electrical infrastructure limit performance (switchgear capacity, harmonics, power quality, protection, and resilience requirements). A structured survey of HVAC assets, energy use, and operating constraints helps pinpoint where controls upgrades, metering, and integration will deliver the quickest wins. Next comes the data layer. AI only performs as well as the signals you feed it, so it’s about getting the basics right: reliable sensor inputs, sub‑metering where it’s missing, consistent naming/tagging, time sync, and clear comms paths from field devices to the BMS/SCADA. For contractors, this is often the make-or-break scope because it’s the part that determines whether optimisation is actually measurable and maintainable. Platform selection matters too. Look for solutions that work with open protocols (e.g. BACnet/Modbus), support hybrid edge/cloud deployment, and can scale from one building to an estate without locking the client into a single vendor or forcing a controls rip-out. Deployment should be treated like a commissioning project, not an “IT install”. Integration, functional testing, alarm rationalisation, and trend verification are essential, alongside practical handover so on-site teams can use the dashboards and act on recommendations. Finally, optimisation is iterative. Ongoing monitoring, periodic recommissioning, and parameter tuning keep performance on track as seasons, occupancy, and equipment condition change - turning the initial upgrade into sustained energy, carbon, and reliability gains. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.