Docs-Store introduces the new Epson Label Printer

Historically, label creation has been a time-consuming and arduous task. In the old days, it involved a labeller, a pair of scissors, a whole load of wasted tape offcuts and no small amount of frustration to make labels fit distribution boards, sockets, switches, trunking, conduit and equipment. As technology developed, things became easier with semi-automated labellers sizing text to fit distribution boards, cables and pattress boxes. While these printing devices made life easier, they tended to demand multi-step button-pushing processes to achieve the desired result. So, while the user could create and print on-site for convenience, using earlier electronic labellers could still take time and effort compared to today’s portable label makers. Cue the fourth generation of label printers for cable installers and maintenance engineers. Using an intuitive smartphone app with your labelling device, connected using seamless Bluetooth instead of fiddly Wi-fi protocols, allows you to create new labels quickly, store them and recall them for future editing and printing. Seeing a life-sized image of the label before printing eliminates extra tape waste and time spent making the label, and according to Docs-Store, making it easier and more convenient than the alternatives. Additional loss of tape, through excessive waste that is fed through at the start of print jobs or either side of the printed text, can also be a frustration that is minimised with Epson LabelWorks printers. Add to that nine metres of labels, that you get inside the cartridge, and the LK tape cassettes offer best in class for value for money, says Docs-Store. As well as convenience, waste and cost saving, ease and speed of use, the Epson LW-Z710 electronic label maker has a small form factor that makes it mobile in the truest sense. Along with a ruggedised, rubber surround, that stays put on the most challenging surfaces, the printer’s design is well-thought-through for the on-site user. 

Weald Electronics introduces its new LMR Range

Weald Electronics, a UK manufacturer of electrical connectors and accessories, has introduced its new LMR Range of rugged rack and panel connectors. The LMR Range is a direct alternative to the obsolete ITW McMurdo Connectors Red Range which is widely used in blind mating applications. The new connector series will allow the many users of the ITW connectors to continue manufacturing existing products and supporting systems in use globally. Designed as a line-to-line or panel connector, the connectors feature a polarised, self-aligning and low insertion force blind-mate plug and socket arrangement, ideally suited for inaccessible applications. The current rating of 5A through each contact lends itself to the growing requirements for high-power, high-reliability electrical systems. The Weald LMR Range connectors will be moulded in the higher-temperature DAP (Diallyl Phthalate resin) material only and are fully back-compatible with the ITW McMurdo Connectors Red Range in Nylon and DAP. DAP offers many excellent physical properties such as electrical insulation, heat resistance, water resistance, chemical resistance and ease of moulding and has proved a popular choice in the former ITW McMurdo Connectors Red Range. Nick Wheeler, Sales Director of Lane Electronics, says, “With proven longevity in many applications around the world, our heavy-duty LMR Range rectangular rack and panel connector system will now ensure the continued popularity of this style, which is particularly suited for use in rugged conditions, such as industrial electronics equipment, robotics and process control.” Key features: Rugged construction 180° polarised Floating bushes to assist alignment Excellent current carrying characteristics Available in four sizes with eight, 16, 24 and 32 contacts 5A current rating Working voltage 800V DC or AC peak UL-94 V-0 rated flame-retardant Diallyl-Phthalate (DAP) insulators Direct alternative to ITW McMurdo Connectors Red Range A new catalogue for the WEALD LMR Range is available and added to the Lane Electronics website. Lane Electronics will soon have stock in place for immediate availability, providing a significant improvement on the earlier ITW McMurdo Connectors lead times. There is also a useful cross-reference wizard on the Lane Electronics website to help customers seamlessly move to the equivalent Weald LMR Range products.

Siemens prepares one of Portugal’s tallest buildings for the future

Siemens Smart Infrastructure has supplied and installed 200 VersiCharge wallboxes and an intelligent charging management system to the Infinity building, one of the tallest residential sites in Lisbon, Portugal. José Cardoso Botelho, CEO of Vanguard Properties, which owns the Infinity building, says, “Real estate activity has a considerable impact both environmentally and socially on the community. Infinity is a project of immense pride to us and an important reference to our digital transformation. We are glad to have collaborated with Siemens to create a sustainable building for tomorrow.” The integrated EV (electric vehicle) charging solution was customised by Siemens’ engineering and software teams in Portugal. It allows for dynamic and intelligent on-site charging management. The dashboards, which are intuitive and easy to use, present comprehensive information to the building manager or operator who can instantly view all information about each charger, as well as monitor energy consumption in real time. Precise reports per apartment based on monthly consumption are produced, facilitating optimisation of the building's energy performance. VersiCharge wallboxes are distributed over six charging islands, across three building floors. The energy management system is also prepared for the future integration of photovoltaic or other renewable energy generation, as well as energy storage systems which will contribute further to energy efficiency and reduce the building's greenhouse gas emissions. The system includes the latest cybersecurity functionalities, and it supports global efforts to achieve climate targets by enabling the expansion of renewable energies. Markus Mildner, CEO eMobility, Siemens Smart Infrastructure, says, “Managing EV charging infrastructure via intelligent load management is crucial for sustainable energy systems and grid stability.” The contract includes delivery of the highly scalable SICAM Dynamic Load Management (DLM) based on the SICAM A8000 power automation platform. The SICAM A8000 series is a modular device range for telecontrol and power grid automation applications in all areas of energy supply. SICAM DLM is a future-ready, highly robust charging station management system. It is prepared to receive grid constraint signals from distribution system operators (DSOs) and to integrate local distributed energy resources (DER) and energy storage systems, making it the ideal solution for the energy transition. It facilitates communication with chargers, from which it extracts information related to consumption and offers dynamic charging management algorithms. As part of the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio, an open digital platform that enables customers to accelerate their digital transformation easier, faster and at scale, the device supports a dynamic load management strategy for building operators. To read more on Siemens, click here.

Motion and activity sensor from EnOcean at Light & Building 2024

At Light & Building 2024, EnOcean is set to introduce the enhanced EMDC energy harvesting motion and activity sensor family. This device, according to EnOcean, marks a significant leap forward in smart building technology. It allows users to monitor room occupancy, light levels and people activity through one single, self-powered wireless sensor. Data for room booking, lighting and HVAC control EMDC devices provide essential sensor information for room occupancy, light level and people activity monitoring, all from a single, wireless, and maintenance-free device. This simplifies deployments in smart building applications. Access to occupancy and ambient light level data enables the automation of lighting systems based on room occupancy and available light. In addition, HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems can benefit from the same information to automatically adjust heating, cooling and airflow based on actual utilisation rather than static schedules. This type of smart building automation enhances energy efficiency without needing manual intervention. “The EnOcean EMDC energy harvesting motion and activity sensor redefines smart building technology. It offers a streamlined solution for monitoring room occupancy, light levels and people activity. The easy integration of this product with intelligent lighting and HVAC control systems, as well as space utilisation applications, positions this product as a game-changer for sustainable and smart building applications,” says Matthias Kassner, Vice President of Product Marketing at EnOcean. Maintenance-free sensor Beyond lighting control, the sensor's occupancy data enables streamlined monitoring of workspace and meeting room utilisation. Users can easily locate available meeting rooms, saving time and effort. Services such as office or restroom cleaning can be scheduled based on actual utilisation instead of fixed schedules. This enhances operational efficiency and user satisfaction. The latest sensors also report on people's activity by quantifying detected motion events. This feature offers insights into the level of activity and utilisation within different building areas, providing a better understanding of space dynamics. EnOcean at Light + Building At Light + Building 2024 in Frankfurt (3-8 March 2024), energy harvesting products and IoT solutions will be at the heart of the EnOcean show presence. Together with key partners EnOcean will exhibit at the EnOcean Alliance booth D10 in hall 9.0. Visitors will have the opportunity to see the latest generation of the EMDC product with other innovations from EnOcean and partners. To read more on EnOcean, click here.

Whitecroft Lighting goes nuclear at Hinkley Point C

Whitecroft Lighting, a UK commercial lighting manufacturer, has secured a landmark contract to supply 40,000 low-energy LED lights to the nation’s newest nuclear power station, Hinkley Point C, in Somerset. Whitecroft Lighting says that it is the first supplier to have its LED lighting system approved for use in the UK nuclear industry. After six years of research, collaboration and customised testing, the Greater Manchester-based company has designed and manufactured a unique LED lighting system. Although high-quality, energy efficient LED lighting has become the new standard across most industries in the UK, the nuclear industry still mainly uses traditional fluorescent lighting. LED technology needed to be approved for the UK nuclear industry. Working with EDF, Whitecroft had to test the lighting and supporting electronics to ensure it could operate in areas containing radiation and higher-than-normal heat levels. As part of the construction of Hinkley Point C, EDF was keen to find a UK lighting manufacturer that could make an LED work in this environment, with Whitecroft developing the ideal solution, supported by the Hinkley Point Supply Chain. Following extensive work undertaken by Whitecroft’s specialist research and development team, LEDs can now be specified for Hinkley Point C and future nuclear projects. Around 40,000 LED luminaires will eventually be installed across 90% of the Hinkley Point C estate, in a broad range of buildings and facilities, including some specialist environments such as the power generation halls. Tony Male, Whitecroft Lighting’s Regional Sales Manager Wales and West says, “The unique nuclear-approved LED luminaires manufactured for the project will be around 40% more energy efficient than traditional fluorescent lighting, and the 40,000 LED luminaires supplied will save around 11,200KWh each day, or the equivalent of the power needed to run around 3,000 average family sized homes.'' Tony adds, “Some obvious potential candidates include Sizewell C in Suffolk, which will be a close copy of Hinkley Point C and will benefit from many of the same components. “There will also hopefully be opportunities to collaborate with the much-talked-about ‘mini’ or ‘modular’ nuclear power stations currently being proposed as the next step in transitioning away from fossil fuel-dependent energy generation.”

CU Phosco Lighting appoints new National Account Manager

CU Phosco Lighting has announced the appointment of Ben Hiscott as its National Account Manager. With over 15 years of experience in the lighting industry, Ben brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the team. Ben was one of the founding members of the Institution of Lighting Professionals' 'Young Lighting Professionals' and the youngest ever HEA-HEMSA Council Member. Previously, Ben was one of the leading National Account Managers at Aluminium Lighting Company and is well-regarded in the industry. He expressed his excitement about his new role, saying, "I am thrilled with the warm welcome I have received from everyone and look forward to the next chapter with CU Phosco Lighting and what the future holds." In his new role, he will focus on nurturing key accounts and major stakeholders within CU Phosco Lighting's UK business. He aims to leverage his industry knowledge to build strategic partnerships and drive growth for the UK manufacturer. Matt Murray, Sales and Marketing Director at CU Phosco Lighting, says, "Ben's experience, coupled with his enthusiasm for learning and embracing new challenges, makes him a valuable asset to the CU Phosco Lighting team. We are excited to see the positive impact he will undoubtedly bring to our organisation, forming part of our Next Generation drive. Good luck, Ben!" To read more on CU Phosco Lighting, click here.

Regional winners move on to SPARKS Learner of the Year final

The regional heats have taken place in the SPARKS Learner of the Year competition, supported by lighting sponsor Luceco Lighting. The six talented regional winners will go on to compete in the Grand Final, which will be held at the Schneider Electric Innovation Hub in Coventry, on the 24 and 25 of April 2024. The winners are: South West – Daniel White from Bridgewater & Taunton College Wales – Jade Norris from Bath College North East – Daniel Powell from Derwentside College North West – Kian Milroy from St Helens College South East – Kian Baker-Humphreys from MIT Skill Midlands – Jane Thorp from Suffolk New College A special mention also goes to the regional runners-up – Curtis Newell, Jared McCarthy, Nathan Cooper, Hari Hussain, James Barnby and Harry Withrington. Simon Shenton, Head of LED at Luceco Lighting and judge for the competition final, says, “It has been inspiring to see the fantastic talent demonstrated throughout the competition so far and we look forward to an exciting final in April.” Zoe Tanner, Managing Director at SPARKS, says, “Well done to the winners of the regional heats – it will be an electrifying final in April! We also have some great support from the industry – we are especially pleased to have Luceco Lighting as our lighting sponsor this year, supporting the next generation of electrical contractors.” To read more on Luceco Lighting, click here.  

Helvar HQ recertification achieves Gold Level WELL Certification

Helvar has announced that its Helvar HQ recertification project has achieved WELL Certification at the Gold level. The WELL Certification is a globally recognised standard for advancing health and wellbeing in buildings. It focuses on aspects such as air, water, nourishment, light, movement, thermal comfort, sound, materials, mind, community, and innovations. By meeting the rigorous criteria set by the International WELL Building Institute, Helvar says that it has proven its dedication to creating a healthy and sustainable environment for its employees and visitors. Helvar HQ, located in Espoo, Finland, has been recertified according to the latest WELL v2 standard. Comparing the points development from the previous WELL pilot v2 certification in March 2020 to the recent WELL v2 certification in December 2023, Helvar has made significant progress in various areas. The extended headquarters achieved 72 points, surpassing the required 60 points for the Gold level certification. Notably, points in the air, thermal comfort, and mind have all seen improvements. One of the strongest concepts emphasised in the recertification project is the integration of light and movement. Helvar utilised its lighting control solutions, including Helvar Insights and Environmental sensors, to gather the necessary data for verifying and monitoring thermal comfort. By leveraging these technologies, Helvar was able to increase points in several categories. "Helvar Insights and Helvar Senses enable smart buildings to evolve and become more energy efficient, aligning with our mission of Brighter Spaces," says Adel Hattab, CEO of Helvar. What sets Helvar Senses apart is its integration of environmental sensors alongside its intelligent lighting solutions. By incorporating sensors for light, CO2, VOCs, temperature, humidity, sound, and air pressure, Helvar’s innovation gathers comprehensive data about the overall conditions of a space. This data, when combined with Helvar Insights’ occupancy information and analysed further, empowers building owners and operators to optimise their spaces effectively. "We are thrilled to have achieved WELL Certification at the Gold level for our Helvar HQ recertification project," says Adel. "Back in March 2020, Helvar HQ was the first project to receive WELL Certification under the WELL v2 pilot in Finland and Scandinavia and the fifth in Europe. This new recertification accomplishment reflects our dedication to creating a healthy and sustainable workspace that promotes the wellbeing of the people. We will continue to prioritise the integration of innovative technologies and sustainable practices to further enhance the health and productivity of all spaces.'' To read more on Helvar, click here.

Obituary: Arnold Kammerling (1935-2024)

Carl Kammerling International has announced that Arnold Kammerling, former Chairman and Managing Director of Carl Kammerling International (CKI), passed away on 29 January 2024 at 88 years of age. He was the last surviving family member of his generation.   Arnold joined CKI, the home of C.K Tools, in 1956 and played a pivotal role in transforming the business from a general hardware tool supplier to owner and supplier of the premium tool brand for professionals and electricians it has become today.   CKI was founded by the Kammerling family in Germany in 1904 and has been at the forefront of hand tool manufacturing for over 100 years. Arnold was born in Wuppertal in 1935 and faced adversity during World War II when his home and the family business were decimated by an RAF bombing raid. Arnold’s family relocated to Pwllheli in Wales in 1950, when he was just 15, establishing the company’s global headquarters there.   Arnold studied at The London School of Economics and decided at a young age to dedicate his career to C.K Tools, starting at the business as an apprentice and taking over the reins on his father’s death at only 32 years of age. He remained an instrumental figure in the company beyond his retirement in 2020.    Committed to the company’s growth, Arnold was the driving force in establishing ‘Ceka Works’, as it was originally known, as a hand tool provider to independent retailers throughout Europe. Passionate about driving quality and innovation, Arnold helped to shape the company’s reputation for engineering excellence.   Under his stewardship, the company expanded from a six-person enterprise to Pwllheli’s largest private employer, with a workforce of 120 and its products sold to over 20,000 stockists in over 40 countries across the globe.   Arnold was passionate about producing high-quality, durable products and he coined the original ‘Friend for Life’ strapline C.K Tools was known for, conveying his firm belief that ‘recollection of quality remains long after the price has been forgotten’.   In 1993, Arnold was awarded an MBE for his contributions to Welsh industry and the region’s economic prosperity. He was further celebrated in 2004, receiving the prestigious Businessperson of the Year accolade at the Daily Post’s Achievement Wales Awards.   Arnold remained connected to his German roots throughout his life and will be laid to rest in his hometown of Wuppertal.    Known for his kindness, gentleness, dignity and hard work, he leaves behind a legacy which will be cherished by his five children and five grandchildren, as well as his industry peers, colleagues and the local community of Pwllheli.   To read more on CKI, click here.

Nominations for the 30 Under 30 Awards 2024 close soon!

Nominations for the 2024 eFIXX 30 Under 30 Awards, sponsored by the Luceco Group, close at the end of the month. Showcasing and supporting the wealth of up-and-coming talent within the electrical industry, the 30 Under 30 Awards highlight the next generation of electrical contractors, recognising their skill, passion and enthusiasm in an exciting and rapidly evolving industry.   Aiming to impress a panel of 15 highly experienced and respected industry experts, nominees will need to demonstrate their ability to deliver outstanding service and results, to go above and beyond for their customers, and to show their commitment to excellence within the work environment.   Entries to this year’s 30 Under 30 Awards close on the 29 February 2024. Winners will be announced on eFIXX TV on 17 April and invited to attend a prestigious awards ceremony and event, celebrating their success with Luceco and eFIXX.   Free to enter Entries are free and you can nominate either yourself or a colleague. Entrants must be under 30 on 31 March 2024 and have been actively working within the electrical industry for at least 12 months to be eligible. Visit here to nominate either yourself or a colleague.   To read more on Luceco, click here.