Luceco launches new Specification Lighting Guide for 2024

The Luceco Group has announced its latest Specification Lighting Guide for 2024. The catalogue features over 1200 SKUs and is packed with new specification lighting solutions, including over 250 brand-new SKUs.    The guide showcases an extensive new lighting controls section, Luceco’s energy-saving LED luminaires, as well as offering updates on the most popular ranges. Each section is colour-coded for ease of navigation, with detailed technical product information to ensure ease of specification, helping the user make the correct choice.   Hard copies are now available to order in a softback version and a brand new durable hardback version, which is perfect for the office. The digital copy of the latest Specification Lighting Guide is also available to view online.   Tony Jones, National Sales Manager on Projects at Luceco Group, says, ‘We are pleased to release our latest Specification Guide to showcase our innovative range of Specification Lighting Solutions. Luceco Group is committed to environmentally friendly solutions which help us to care for and protect the environment in which we operate. Through our comprehensive product guides, we aim to make it easier for customers to specify and install sustainable lighting which is the best fit and choice for them.’     To read more on the Luceco Group, click here.

Marshall-Tufflex saves 2,750 tonnes of plastic waste

Marshall-Tufflex has announced that it used an average of 60% recycled material in the production of its PVC-U cable management range in 2023. Marshall-Tufflex has been using recycled material originating from waste PVC-U windows in manufacturing its products for 30 years and in 2023 this figure was at an average of 60%. The efforts are part of the company’s mission to drive positive change in the industry and represent over 2,750 tonnes of waste PVC-U that has been reused effectively for manufacturing Marshall-Tufflex products. “To help combat the 25 million tonnes of waste generated by the construction industry ending up in landfill sites, we are revolutionising the way the built sector thinks about recycling. At Marshall-Tufflex, we want ALL PVC-U cable management products installed in buildings to be manufactured with recycled material and we would like this to be a reality by 2028,” says Jon Chamberlain, Managing Director at Marshall-Tufflex. The latest figures from the manufacturer come as part of a wider strategy of initiatives that the company has put into place in its bid to reduce its impact on the environment for future generations. “In addition to using recycled material in our manufacturing, we are also Planet Mark certified, which provides third-party verification of our environmental credentials, and we are also working towards a gold rating with EcoVadis. Furthermore, to help contractors identify the products and make specifications that will help make a positive environmental impact, we are able to supply embodied carbon reports on our entire range,'' Jon concludes. To read more on Marshall-Tufflex, click here.

Colleagues pay tribute as Anne Galbraith prepares to retire

Colleagues from across the electrical sector have paid tribute to Anne Galbraith, who is stepping down as Chief Executive of the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) after 12 years at the helm. The experienced CEO will be retiring in early April after overseeing the development of electrical apprentices and adult trainees across Scotland for over a decade. Co-workers and industry partners have saluted Anne, who joined SECTT in August 2011 from Building Engineering Services Training at the Heating & Ventilating Contractors Association (HVAC), now the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA). Scott Foley, Chair of the SECTT Board of Trustees and Regional Officer at Unite the Union, says, “Anne’s retirement is the culmination of more than 28 years in apprenticeship training and marks the end of an era at SECTT after 12 years of dedicated leadership. “Her tenure has been notable for the significant advancements made under her guidance, specifically the development of two Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ) programmes which contributed to the overall growth and quality of training provided by SECTT. “Furthermore, her legacy includes the successful implementation of the OneFile system for apprentices, employers and the college sector, a move that has undoubtedly modernised and standardised the training processes within the sector. This technological integration reflects Anne’s commitment to staying at the forefront of training.” Anne was closely involved with the Construction and Built Environment Challenge (CABEC) and the Get Into Electrical Installation initiative with the Prince’s Trust, encouraging youngsters to become involved in electrical work. Barrie McKay, Training and Development Manager at SECTT, says, “Anne had a positive impact on so many peoples’ lives with the CABEC schools' competition and the Prince’s Trust programme, helping those who didn’t have the chance of an electrical career take their first steps in the world of work. “As SECTT bids farewell to Anne, her contributions have left a lasting impact on the organisation’s training initiatives. Her leadership and vision have set a solid foundation for continued success and we will remember her with appreciation and respect.” Alan Wilson, Managing Director of SELECT, says, “On behalf of everyone at SELECT, I would like to thank Anne for her hard work and commitment over the past 12 years. “Developing the talent of tomorrow is crucial if we are to achieve the electrification of society and meet net zero targets, and Anne has been at the helm as record numbers of young learners come through to learn the skills that will be essential for our future.” Fiona Harper, Secretary of the SJIB, says, “Anne was key to the success of ongoing training during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that measures were put in place to ensure that young learners could safely continue their electrical education. “The SJIB would like to thank Anne and SECTT for their collaboration and we look forward to continuing the excellent relationship we have with SECTT as our managing agent and ensuring the ongoing success of the apprentice and adult training programmes in Scotland.” To read more on SECTT, click here.

Stalwart of the solar industry steps down after four decades

AES Solar has announced that its founder, George Goudsmit, is stepping down as Managing Director at 82 years old. Management of the business, based in Moray, Scotland, will be taken over by the existing senior leadership team as part of a management buyout, which secures the company’s long-term future.    George says, “When the business started in 1979, it was pioneering the manufacture of solar technology. I was convinced that solar was the logical solution to our energy needs and should be available to all at a reasonable cost. Four decades later, it is satisfying to see that vision become a reality. By focusing solely on solar panels, I grew the business and now our solar installations are on all kinds of buildings from off-grid remote cottages to landmarks like Edinburgh Castle. Interest in solar technology continues to grow and I look forward to watching the new management team take the company forward to the next chapter in renewable energy.”   George took on AES Solar when he moved to Scotland from London in 1989. At that time, it was a small heating company with a sideline in solar panel manufacture. George focused on the solar side of the business, becoming the only UK manufacturer of solar thermal panels and expanding into a range of solar technology. From a modest turnover of £30,000, the business now has a turnover of £10m, with significant growth occurring over the last three years.    The members involved in the management buyout are Jamie Di Sotto, Commercial Director, Campbell MacLennan, Technical Director, and Lynn Davidson, Finance Director. Despite being in his eighties, George has no intention of retiring and will use his extra time to explore new technologies and trends on behalf of AES Solar.   In 2021, George was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Solar and Storage Awards. As well as noting his infectious enthusiasm and advocacy on behalf of the industry, he was recognised for personally convincing the late Queen Elizabeth II to install solar energy at Balmoral. The company won the royal client by providing Scottish-made products, along with an installation that was sympathetic to the historic importance of the Royal Estate.    George adds, “The solar industry is a fascinating industry to be in and AES Solar has grown from a pioneer of solar thermal into a firmly established provider of solar energy to commercial and domestic customers. I feel that the company has grown in a harmonious way for clients and employees alike and I am looking forward to exploring new innovation in the sector, safe in the knowledge that the business is in good hands. I always predicted great things for this industry and when I reflect on the past thirty-plus years, there is so much to be proud of.”

KNIPEX’s spare parts helps hardworking tools last longer

Available through its network of merchants and wholesalers, KNIPEX offers spare parts for many of its tools with interchangeable components so users can maintain the performance of their tools without incurring the cost of complete replacements. Hardworking tools may eventually experience some wear and tear, but that does not mean its life is over. Renewing certain parts of the tools such as blades and push buttons when they wear out is economical, environmentally conscious and easy.    For example, the KNIPEX Self-Adjusting Insulation Stripper is designed to strip wires ranging from solid and multicore to finely stranded conductors. It works well with standard insulation materials and can handle flat ribbon conductors up to 10mm in width. Its sharp blade, made of oil-hardened special tool steel, cuts cleanly through insulation without damaging the wires beneath, a critical factor for maintaining safety and functionality. When the blade eventually needs replacing, it’s quick and convenient to do so with just a screwdriver, so you can always have a sharp blade that makes the repetitive job of cutting through wire easy.    KNIPEX bolt cutters offer a robust design that facilitates simple maintenance. Equipped with non-slip handles, a dozen adjustment positions for precision and induction-hardened cutting edges, they proficiently cut through chains, padlocks, bolts and screws. Maintaining the efficiency and safety of these bolt cutters is straightforward. Users can effortlessly switch out the cutter head when necessary by unscrewing the nuts, replacing the head and securing everything back in place. This quick refurbishment process ensures that the bolt cutters are easily restored to peak condition and ready for the next job.    A pipe cutter that stands out for its sharp blades made from special surgical steel is the KNIPEX BiX. It cuts high-temperature plastic drainpipes and electrical conduits without creating shavings and can trim sealing sleeves flush against walls during final installations. Precision work like this calls for sharp tools, so KNIPEX has integrated not just one, but two spare blades within the body of the tool to ensure that no matter the location or what the user is cutting, the perfect edge is just a quick swap away. For the use of extra blades, there is a set of eight available.    Although it happens rarely, if the push button on the KNIPEX Cobra, the pliers wrench or the KNIPEX TwinGrip Slip Joint Pliers becomes worn, users do not need a new tool – an assortment of spare parts are available. It takes just a few moments to replace the included push button and the pliers are ready for use again.   To read more on KNIPEX, click here.

Luceco launches new range of FType downlighters

The new range of FType downlighters from Luceco combines end-user demand for style and value with easy, quick fitting and ‘no-return’ reliability.   With Dim2Warm and four different white colour changes, a choice of four bezel colour finishes and options for flat, adjustable and regressed fitting, the three models in the new range combine to provide 209 style and colour combinations.   The new range is fully compliant with Building Regulations and is IP, fire, acoustic and air leakage tested for complete confidence and peace of mind. It has three-to-seven-year warranties, depending on the model, and it is built on proven base designs with improved technology and features, ensuring a ‘right-first-time’ approach to any wiring installation.  Based on extensive installer research, the new FType downlighters include time-saving benefits, speed and accuracy of installation and energy efficient choices within the lights. The range can span efficiently over multiple applications and is adaptable to any project or space.    Commenting on the new range, Luceco’s Head of LED Product Development, Simon Shenton says, “We designed the new FType downlighters in consultation with installers about what consumers and end users are after, in terms of stylish and value for money lighting and how we could ensure this demand could be met, quickly, easily, safely, and with ‘no-return’ reliability. The resulting range is equally suitable for new build or retrofit and offers a great opportunity for installers to upsell and grow their customer base.”    The range comes with PushFit connector blocks and ClipFit closures to lock in wiring and it reduces the potential for wiring or cable slippage. First and second fix connectors are included.   To read more on the Luceco Group, click here.

Waving goodbye to Mr Manrose after 36 years in the sector

After 36 years working at Manrose, Clive Britton has retired as Sales Director, heralding the end of an era for the British fan manufacturer. Affectionately known in the electrical industry as Mr Manrose, Clive Britton is probably the longest-serving sales director in the sector. Joining Manrose in 1987, Clive has been Sales Director through nine Prime Ministers and has seen a sector transformation. Clive started his sales career in 1976, aged 20, when he joined Lyons Tetley where he worked his way up to Area Manager. In 1987, Clive’s good friend Robert Belcher, whose family was already in the fan business, decided to set up a new company. On 24 December 1987, the company was registered with Clive as company secretary and Manrose was born, with its first production line in Clive’s parents’ garage, staffed by friends. In the beginning, Manrose started small with only 15 product lines and a couple of variations, including a 4in standard, pull cord and timer fan, two shower fans and three window fans. Now 35 years later, Manrose has over 3,200 products. In 1989, originally in the background, Clive joined Manrose as Sales Manager with a brief to double the company sales from £500,000 to £1m in a year. Clive didn’t only double the turnover, but he grew the business to £1.3m in just 12 months and he was made Sales Director in 1990. By 1996, Manrose was recognised by every electrical buying group in the electrical trade, striking the order pad with £1m turning into £2.5m and then to £6m, as the company continued to grow. In 2007 Manrose’s turnover reached £20m and Volution Holdings, recognising the British manufacturer’s success, bought the company. Since then, there has been significant R&D to meet customer demand, regulation and the drive to reduce carbon, resulting in a raft of new products, including the energy efficient Lo-Watt range. More recently, Clive witnessed a manufacturing transformation at Manrose’s Reading site with the company moving from using virgin to recycled plastic, helping to make ventilation sustainable. To reduce carbon, Manrose has invested in R&D and manufacturing technology to develop ventilation products from recycled sources with 90% of the plastic used in its facilities to be from recycled sources by the end of 2025, without compromising on quality or reliability. Clive says, “Now is the right time for me to go; everything is going really well. We are leaders in transforming our manufacturing from using virgin to recycled plastic. We are in a strong position as a brand leader. I’m very pleased Stuart Eglin is taking over from me as Sales Director. I feel the company is in safe hands because Manrose is very special. I have seen the company grow from the start, it is important to me.” Clive is very happy with his successor Stuart Eglin, who is Manrose’s new Sales Director. Stuart came from Crompton Lighting in the electrical sector so he already knew the industry. During last year, Clive has been working on special projects while Stuart has taken the helm, ensuring a seamless transition. To read more on Manrose, click here.

Prysmian launches breakthrough with Sirocco Extreme 864 fibres

Prysmian has announced the launch of its Sirocco Extreme 864f microduct cable. According to Prysmian, this groundbreaking cable showcases world-record diameters and fibre densities for blown microduct cables.   Sirocco Extreme 864f microduct cable features 864 fibres within a 9.8mm diameter, providing a fibre density of 11.5 fibres per mm2 and can be installed into a 12mm duct. Prysmian says that its Sirocco Extreme microduct cables employ the state-of-the-art BendBrightXS 180µm single-mode (ITU-T G.657.D, G.657.A2) bend-insensitive fibre, ensuring compatibility with existing G.652 fibres and readiness for evolved systems.   “Microduct cables have become a popular choice for future-fit applications, such as long haul data centre interconnection, metro and FTTx networks. They enable rapid deployment and provide future-proof scalability and their small footprint also provides sustainability benefits, due to the use of fewer raw materials. Sirocco Extreme microduct cables offer the best available dimensions on the market as they utilise Prysmian’s BendBrightXS 180µm single-mode bend insensitive fibre, the only true 180µm fibre available on the market today,” says Ian Griffiths, Global R&D VP, Telecom Business at Prysmian.    He continues, “The extreme fibre count and reduced diameter of the Sirocco Extreme microduct cables make installation faster and more cost-effective.”   Available in fibre counts ranging from 96 to 864 and conforming to international standards for optical and mechanical performance, the Sirocco Extreme cables incorporate Prysmian’s PicoTube technology, making them up to 25% smaller than previous microduct cables. This makes it possible to install more fibres into a congested duct space and enables the use of smaller ducts for new installations, resulting in lower installation costs and the use of fewer raw materials.   Prysmian’s Sirocco Extreme microduct cables not only provide cost savings to telecom network owners and builders but also enable them to reduce carbon and environmental footprints. By offering reduced diameters and increased fibre densities, Prysmian goes beyond its value chain and continues to demonstrate its commitment to environmentally conscious solutions that avoid emissions.   To read more on Prysmian, click here.

JTL opens new electrical apprenticeship training centre in Eastbourne

JTL opened its new training centre in Eastbourne on Thursday 8 February, attended by the Mayor of Eastbourne, Councillor Candy Vaughan. The opening of JTL’s 13th centre took place during National Apprenticeship Week (5-11 February), which celebrates the positive impact that apprenticeship qualifications have on local communities, employers and the industries they operate. Located at Highfield Industrial Estate, the centre will provide electrical apprenticeship training to help meet the growing demand for these skills in the local area. This expansion aligns with JTL's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the electrical industry and facilitating the development of skilled professionals across England and Wales. During the opening event, Councillor Candy Vaughan was accompanied by JTL’s Chief Executive, Chris Claydon, to explore the modern facilities of the new training hub and to meet the wider team, along with some JTL apprentices. The spotlight on JTL's newest training centre serves as evidence for the transformative potential of apprenticeships in shaping the future of the building services engineering industry and the wider upskilling of the UK’s workforce. Chris Claydon, Chief Executive at JTL, says, “Our Eastbourne centre represents a crucial step forward in our mission to bridge the existing skills gap and support the growth of the building services engineering industry through our training. “National Apprenticeship Week has provided a very fitting backdrop for us to unveil our latest training centre and serves as an important platform to champion the positive influence that apprenticeship qualifications have.” Councillor Vaughan says, “It was a privilege to be invited to the opening of JTL’s training centre in Eastbourne. I am thoroughly looking forward to the wide range of opportunities that this will bring to our local community and the positive impact it will have on upskilling both individuals and Eastbourne businesses.” To read more on JTL, click here.

HiKOKI Power Tools launches the new CV18DA Multitool

HiKOKI has launched the CV18DA Multitool, which it says is a great addition to any toolkit, thanks to its precision and performance. The CV18DA Multitool, which features a new tool-less blade change feature, marries brushless motor technology with a design that's nimble and robust. The HiKOKI CV18DA Multitool accepts Starlock and OIS blades with a quick and easy tool-free blade exchange system. This swift swap capability allows the user to transition between accessories with ease. This Multitool’s lightweight build and ergonomic grip mean tradespeople can navigate the tightest corners or stubborn jobs without sacrificing comfort or control. It is the perfect tool for busy tradespeople, ensuring no time is wasted. This next-generation Multitool features HiKOKI’s UVP anti-vibration technology for superior control, ensuring smooth operation while keeping vibrations to a minimum. Its compact control and ergonomic design make it ideal for hard-to-reach areas, ensuring that the most intricate tasks in confined spaces can be easily tackled with precision. The Multitool’s low-vibration body also makes it comfortable to use, especially during extended run times, as it reduces fatigue and enhances control and accuracy. Adding to its user-friendly design is an integrated LED light, which improves visibility in poorly lit areas, a common scenario for many tradespeople. Operating at an oscillation angle of 3.6° and offering a no-load speed range of 6,000 to 20,000/min, the HiKOKI CV18DA Multitool is adept at everything from cutting and scraping to sanding. With an overall length of 327mm and a weight of just 1.2kg (excluding the battery), this is a lightweight companion on construction sites.  All this is backed up with three-year and five-year, heavy-duty warranties, subject to product registration and terms and conditions. To read more on HiKOKI, click here.