Vestel launches dual-output EV charger

The second Vestel-branded EV charger to launch in the UK in 2023, the EVC10 joins the smaller residential and small business EVC04. Both models are designed and built in Europe, helping to reduce the carbon footprint of EV charging through reduced transport, and will be unveiled at Fully Charged Live South 28-30 April. As the EV charger manufacturer behind some of the biggest brand names in Europe, the launch of Vestel’s own-brand products lowers the cost of charging solutions for the growing UK market. The EVC10 is a robust 22kW charger, offering dual socket 11kW output from a single three-phase feed, and is ideal for small businesses, commercial venues, and car parks. The design allows 22kW charging from a single outlet (when used with a single vehicle) for compatible vehicles such as Renault EVs. As standard, the sleek-looking charger offers a 7in TFT LCD display, RFID card reader and 802.11n Wi-Fi connectivity for ease of set up and use via the Vestel Drive Green app. Standout features of the EVC10 include its high charging capacity, which enables it to charge two electric vehicles quickly and efficiently. This makes it an excellent choice for businesses that need to charge multiple vehicles in a short amount of time but are limited on real estate or budget for multiple charger points. This charging station is specifically designed to be space-efficient, making it an ideal choice for businesses with limited space. Matthew Lang, Managing Director of Vestel UK, comments, “The EVC10 launch is another milestone on Vestel’s route to becoming Europe’s number one brand for affordable, reliable EV charging. This state-of-the-art charging station comes packed with a range of features and benefits that make it an ideal choice for small businesses looking to invest in electric vehicle infrastructure. Thanks to our economies of manufacturing scale, those features and our renowned reliability are now available to an ever-growing number of businesses looking to integrate affordable charging solutions.” For maximum installation flexibility, particularly in public charge installations, EVC10 options include 4G/LTE connectivity, dual three-phase MID meters, tethered charge cables in 5m or 7m, and a floor mount post for when wall mounting is not practical. Standard safety features include voltage/current sensing cut-outs, over-temperature protection, surge/lightning protection and 6mA DC leakage breakers. With class-leading IP and impact protection, the EVC10 is also fully OCPP 1.6 compliant. The EVC10 leverages that expertise and reliability, integrating it with a range of smart features that make it easy to use and manage. The charger can be connected to a business's existing network, allowing remote monitoring and management locally or remotely. This makes it easy to keep track of usage, tailor charging to time-based tariff changes and ensure that the charging stations are always available when they are needed. The EVC10 is also designed to be highly durable, ensuring that it can withstand the rigours of daily use in a business environment, including daily knocks and UK weather. The EVC10 and EVC04 will be launched at Fully Charged Live South 28-30 April and will be available to the trade from June.

Essential fire system accessories from ESP

ESP reminds installers and wholesalers of some of the fire system accessories in its range that are essential elements to consider when working on a project. These include the fire isolator switch, log book and document box. Fire isolator switch - with a legal requirement in place to ensure all new fire alarm systems in the UK are fitted with a mains isolator switch, ESP offers a product that meets the requirements of the BS5839 Part 1 standard. The fire isolator switch provides a secure method of isolating the mains supply feeding a fire system control panel and is crucial for fire system maintenance. The supply can only be isolated by an authorised person, by means of a key lock switch and switching is restricted by key operation. The key is removable in both ON and OFF positions and without the key, a tool would be required to disconnect the power. Fire safety log book - it is a legal requirement for managers/building owners to take responsibility for the safety within their property. ESP’s A4 log book will ensure system records are maintained in accordance with BS5839-1. The log book will include information on test procedures, frequencies of service and maintenance requirements Document Box - ESP’s wall-mounted, A4 Document Box is designed to keep vital documents safe from potential damage. It is suitable for fire, emergency lighting and CCTV system documents and keeps them secure in a single location. It features a lockable door, with two keys supplied.

Square 4 Solar recognised as BauderSOLAR approved contractor

Square 4 Solar has been confirmed as an approved installer for the BauderSOLAR range of solar PV roof mounting systems. The approval process for Bauder recognises the company’s professional credentials in the solar PV industry and its proven track record of delivering quality commercial installations UK-wide. As an approved solar PV contractor, Square 4 Solar can now work in collaboration with Bauder’s national network of approved roofing contractors, to install BauderSOLAR F for flat membrane roofs and the BauderSOLAR G LIGHT for biosolar roofs. Upon successful tendering for BauderSOLAR projects, Square 4 Solar will be responsible for installing and commissioning the solar PV solution, including the Bauder mounting system. Tom Raftery, Bauder Product Manager - Solar PV / Environment Lead, explains, “With changes to Approved Document L set to come into force from June this year, we’re already seeing a sharp increase in specifications for our BauderSOLAR range.” “Solar PV is a specialist element of a roofing system that requires expertise to design and the relevant industry credentials to install. As a well-established provider of solar PV solutions to the commercial sector, Square 4 Solar has demonstrated that they can deliver the professional standards, backed by the relevant warranties, that our customers will need.” Over the past three years, Square 4 Solar has installed and commissioned more than 60 solar PV systems for new build Lidl stores UK-wide. Adrian Thomas, Business Development Director, Square 4 Solar, says, “Bauder has shown real innovation with BauderSOLAR, delivering a unique mounting range that addresses common challenges we have long seen in the industry. “As an approved solar PV installer, we’re looking forward to working closely with Bauder and their nationwide network of approved roofing contractors. With a team that has more than 20 years in the sector, we believe we can work collaboratively to secure projects and support specifiers with delivering more robust building designs that effectively leverage solar PV.”

Electrical apprentices reveal hilarious pranks in new podcast

Walking around with invisible wheelbarrows and being sent to look for fallopian tubes and left-handed screwdrivers are among the highlights of a fun new podcast from the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT) and electrical trade association SELECT. The first episode of Sparks’ Remarks sees five Scottish apprentices sharing laughs and stories about some of the pranks they and their colleagues have experienced during their time in the classroom and on-site. Aimed at existing and would-be apprentices, the youngsters talk frankly about the ups and downs of getting to grips with such a challenging discipline - and the companionship and fun that comes with it. One learner reveals, “One boy on my course was sent to look for fallopian tubes; he was walking around the site all day asking people and they were saying, ‘No, I didn’t bring mine today’.” Another reveals, “I know someone who go sent to look for a left-handed screwdriver - they were away for ages.” While a third tells listeners, “One of my mates was told he had to make a video of how to carry stuff properly on-site, so he pretended to walk about with a wheelbarrow filled with electrical equipment.” The Sparks’ Remarks podcast also has a serious side, with apprentices revealing the things they find most challenging - including early starts and cold mornings - and the support they receive from tutors and employers as they learn their trade. One youngster reveals, “I wouldn’t try to sugar-coat it - it’s not all sunshine and rainbows, but it’s definitely worth it in the end if you get your head down and get a trade.” The launch episode - entitled The Good, The Bad and The Fallopian Tube Windups - is the first in a series of podcasts that see the electrical talent of tomorrow open up to journalist Kim McAllister and Barrie McKay, Training and Development Manager at SECTT. The opening 15-minute show hears the thoughts of five first-year learners from West Lothian College –  Fay Greens and Mason Arthurs who work for West Lothian Council, Nick Anderson of Glasgow Rewires, Robbie Super of Everwarm and Aaron Muir from Westrigg Electrical Services. Barrie says, “Sparks’ Remarks is designed to be a light-hearted and honest reflection of what apprentices really think of their training journey. So in this first episode they make it clear that there’s a lot of hard work, but there’s a lot of fun and camaraderie to be had too. “The electrical apprenticeship is not an easy course, but hopefully this podcast shows how learners are supported every step of the way. As we release each episode, it will also be great to see how the talent of tomorrow is shaping up and taking their future into their own hands.” Future episodes of Sparks’ Remarks will see apprentices reflecting on what they’re learned during their first year in the classroom and on-site, with older learners also handing down invaluable advice. Anne Galbraith, CEO of SECTT says, “It’s been a delight to listen to this podcast and hear the enthusiasm with which these apprentices are embarking on what, for many people, can be a very steep and daunting learning curve. “It is good to hear about the support that they receive, not only from their employers, college staff and lecturers, but also from the electrical professionals on site who take time to help them learn their trade in the best possible way.” Iain Mason, Director of Membership and Communications at SELECT, adds, “We’re really excited to be putting these episodes together and are already looking forward to hearing more stories from apprentices across the country. “By hearing real voices from Scotland’s electrical apprentices, hopefully we can encourage more talented young learners to join a rewarding industry which is already playing a key part in all of our lives.”

Martindale Electric launches the BZ701

Martindale Electric has introduced the new BZ701 socket tester and supply polarity tester, which offers 13A socket testing capability in a wide variety of domestic, commercial and industrial applications. This new socket tester gives trade professionals a safe and reliable method of testing outlets, while also having the additional capability of identifying reversed live and neutral, a function not featured on many commercially available socket testers. The new Martindale BZ701 unit not only detects 28 different socket wiring fault conditions and checks the mains voltage level, but it also safely identifies Line-Neutral reversal or cross polarity at the incoming supply. The polarity swap test detects fault conditions on PME/ TN-C-S systems (the most common type of supply) that cannot be identified by normal socket testers - making it an invaluable addition to any toolbox. The BZ701 is also user-friendly - simply plug it in and activate it with the touchpad. Correct polarity is indicated by three flashing green LEDs, while a fault condition is immediately highlighted by three red LEDs and a warning buzzer. The red/green LEDs, buzzer and the ‘N E L’ labelled LEDs make it easy to pinpoint the source of common faults, while the tough and sculpted design ensures it's both durable and easy to remove. The Martindale BZ701 socket tester and supply polarity tester is for any electrician or maintenance engineer looking to ensure the safety and reliability of electrical installations and wiring. With its fast and easy mains testing and incoming supply cross-polarity test, along with its high/low voltage indication feature, Martindale believes that the BZ701 is the ultimate tool for identifying electrical faults.

Toolstation app surpasses one million downloads

Toolstation has announced that its customer app has surpassed one million downloads after launching in August 2021. The milestone represents a demonstration of the growth of Toolstation’s digital model and customer preference for choice when it comes to ways to shop. Recent research by the business found that almost a third of customers now prefer to shop via the app. Ryan Hill Head of Digital at Toolstation says, “Achieving one million downloads is an important milestone for Toolstation’s app and this achievement complements our printed catalogue and online offering, making it truly multi-channel. We expect digitally-enabled sales to continue to grow over time as customer behaviour evolves. “Our app makes it easy for tradespeople to work smarter and quicker by ordering to their nearest site or home and they can manage their accounts from their pocket. At just the tap of a button, our customers can check their credit accounts, pay balances and download their invoices, which means they can quickly wave goodbye to large amounts of paperwork.” The Toolstation app means tradespeople can search through over 25,000 products by category, through its quick search bar, or by type, price, brand and features, and have them delivered speedily to their site or home. They can instantly check stock availability at their nearest store in real time, save items for later through ‘saved lists’, and pay through the app. Its ‘My Promotions’ means customers can also receive regular and exclusive app only offers. Existing Toolstation Trade Account customers can pay through the app and customers can easily request to sign up too. At the tap of a button, they can check their credit account, pay balances and download invoices. To find the Toolstation app, search for Toolstation on the Apple App store or Google Play store to download.

A new generation of cut-resistant gloves

STALSEN have launched a new generation of safety gloves; the UK’s first 21-gauge cut resistant gloves, the Rayza RX562 and the Rayza RX563. In a league of their own, they are the thinnest glove with maximum cut protection (level F), says STALSEN. This combination means there is now a range of gloves with dexterity and flexibility, but also with cut protection. Designed for even the fiddliest of tasks, this range is for where manual precision and touch sensitivity are required. For example, M&E, signalling, technology, and communications. In fact, such is the advanced engineering of this range, three-digit gloves where there is no protection to fingertips or even disposable nitrile gloves for precision tasks should now be a problem of the past, as is the common requirement to remove gloves to carry out work. An additional benefit to this range is the touchscreen compatibility, meaning smart devices can be operated while keeping gloves on hands, and keeping hands safe. What is 21-gauge?  21-gauge is brand new technology, enabling STALSEN to develop gloves that are over 16% thinner than the current ‘thinnest 18-gauge’, and 40% thinner than the standard ‘thin 15-gauge’. Delivering the most second skin-like feel. “These super-lightweight cut resistant gloves are enabling us to make strides in best practice for hand protection, particularly in the M&E and construction sector where there is a need for dexterity. The development of these gloves is a giant leap towards being the end of fingerless or disposable nitrile gloves or having to remove gloves completely to perform precision tasks” says Kieran Tydeman, Managing Director at STALSEN,” These are gloves, that people actually want to wear because there is no compromise on comfort, functionality or protection and this will undoubtedly reduce hand injuries”.

Aico supports distributors with point-of-sale installations

Throughout April and May, Aico’s dedicated team of 29 Regional Specification Managers (RSMs) are travelling across the UK, offering in-branch support with product displays by assembling and installing over 500 new point-of-sale units. Aico’s team of RSMs work closely with a reputable network of distributors and offer support which can range from in-branch marketing guidance to training for the whole branch. They are also always on hand to handle any specialised orders that need extra attention. Martin Przewozny, Regional Specification Manager for Aico, comments, “I recently had an exciting morning at Edmundsons Manchester in Salford! We have just unveiled our latest point-of-sale stand featuring Aico’s Ei3030, which combines individual Optical, Heat and CO sensors that is due to launch in May. "It’s great to work with such a brilliant network of distributors and be able to support with innovative point-of-sale solutions for Aico products." Aico strives to develop new products and technologies, paying attention to every detail, and considering customer service at all points. Each new point-of-sale unit is being installed, with a Regional Specification Manager present to offer support and ensure the quality and installation of the unit are to a high standard. Aico regularly welcomes wholesalers to its Centre of Excellence in Oswestry, to deliver Expert Installer Training and provide insight into its IoT devices. This training ensures Aico employees are confident and up-to-date in their knowledge of Aico products, enabling them to deliver the best customer service possible. As part of this offering, distributors often host Ask Aico events at their premises with support from their local RSM to provide installers with everything they need to know about domestic Fire and Carbon Monoxide detection. Tony Boyle, National Sales Manager at Aico says, “Electrical distributors are a valued and integral part of our supply chain and our route to market. Aico products can be purchased from nearly 2,500 trading electrical distributors across the UK. We are delighted that our distributor partners are showcasing Aico products and utilising our new point-of-sale display stands, which take pride of place at many a trade counter.” The key features of the new point-of-sale units include: An eye-catching LED Display Displays up to 96 products Interchangeable messaging and Hero product display to showcase new products

Electricians could earn an extra £12,000 a year by offering EV services

More than two-thirds (68%) of UK electricians are potentially missing out on thousands of pounds each year by not offering electric vehicle (EV) services to their customers, new research has revealed. With the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel cars fast approaching, the demand for EV-related infrastructure is set to continue rising, with charge points now legally required in all new-build houses and supermarkets. Electricians are perfectly placed to take advantage of this trend, so ElectricalDirect surveyed the industry to see how many are embracing this opportunity by adding EV-related work to their list of services. The study found that less than a third (32%) of UK electricians are currently installing EV charging points, and almost a quarter (23%) have turned down work of this nature. Although it is strongly advised, registered electricians do not legally need additional qualifications to work with EV chargers, so many workers are potentially missing out on a lucrative source of income. Electricians receive, on average, 40 EV-related customer enquiries a year - the equivalent of once every nine days - and with each installation typically generating over £300 of profit, this adds up to potential annual earnings of £12,000. With EV training courses generally costing around £300-400, the initial investment can usually be repaid within a couple of jobs. Besides the financial incentive, there are many benefits to electricians offering EV services, and ElectricalDirect has partnered with Darran Clarke at Alan Day Volkswagen to explain: Futureproofing your career “Those who are able to offer EV-related services will be well-positioned to meet the needs of a growing market, so by learning about EVs and offering related services, tradespeople can future-proof their businesses and stay competitive in a changing industry.” Greater variety of jobs “By offering EV-related services, a tradesperson can expand their business and accept a greater variety of jobs, leading to more income.” Working with new technology “The opportunity to work with new technology and learn about the latest developments in the field can be a rewarding aspect of offering EV-related services.” Environmental impact “By working in the EV space, tradespeople can contribute to the transition towards a more sustainable transportation system and make a positive impact on the environment.” Dominick Sandford, Managing Director at ElectricalDirect, says, “It’s clear that electric vehicles are going to continue growing in popularity, and many electricians are already reaping the benefits of this market shift. “However, our research shows that many are yet to fully take advantage. This is partly due to perceived barriers like cost and time, but we also found that some simply aren’t aware how to begin working with EVs. "That’s why we’ve partnered with a series of experts to reveal exactly what tradespeople need to do in order to make this lucrative career step.”

ARMD appoints Kevin North as Sales Director

ARMD has appointed Kevin North as its new Sales Director, as it expands its team ready for growth. Highly experienced in the trade sector, Kevin has previously worked with Thomson Local, Rated People, Plentific and Checkatrade. Kevin is also a former electrician and is now helping to protect other electricians, and trades, from the scourge of tool theft. Kevin joins ARMD with a mission to form partnerships with retailers, trade associations, builders’ merchants, manufacturers and other companies in contact with tradespeople. His appointment is part of an expansion following a successful funding round as well as the field trials and launch of the game changing ARMD Guard smart van alarm and tracker system. The ARMD Guard integrates seamlessly with the ARMD app, so that a tool inventory, security, insurance, tool and van location is all in one place. These all work together to bring a superior layer of protection to a tradesperson’s livelihood. “We are delighted to welcome Kevin on board,” says Duncan Jackson co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer of ARMD. “Following our successful crowdfund, we are now looking for mutually beneficial partnerships particularly with builders’ merchants, electrical wholesalers and other companies who solve the problems tradespeople encounter as they go about their day-to-day business.”