C.K Tools joins push for fire safety

C.K Tools has launched a range of cable strippers designed to tackle low smoke zero hydrogen (LS0H) cable. Use of LS0H cable is increasing as specifiers bid to improve fire safety, but stripping this tough material is a challenge. Now widespread in Ireland and the USA, the use of LS0H cable is on the rise in the UK. While PVC cable jacketing may be fire resistant, it can generate around 50% its weight in smoke when exposed to high heat or flames. This thick, acrid smoke is highly toxic, corrosive, and can damage electrical equipment. Toxic smoke inhalation causes more fire-related deaths than fires themselves. As such, many specifiers are opting to replace PVC or other cable jacketing with LS0H, and - with the legacy of the Grenfell Tower tragedy looming large - it is expected that regulations to this effect will soon be introduced. Faced with LS0H, many electricians have reported challenges in stripping the cable, as standard cable strippers fail to meet the strength of the thermoplastic material. C.K Tools’ new LS0H cable stripper, however, has been designed specifically for the task. Compatible with round, flat, and LS0H cabling, C.K Tools’ latest strippers make light work of all cable types thanks to their two titanium nitrade coated blades and four cable brackets. The range includes a 10mm flat and LS0H bracket, a 6mm flat and LS0H bracket, a 2.5mm flat and LS0H bracket, and an 8-28mm round bracket. The stripper itself boasts a self-locking switch, automatic blade protection, and keyless blade adjustment, alongside the titanium nitrade coated blades. The range is available as a set with the stripper included, and LS0H brackets can also be purchased as a set of three. Brinley Buckley Roberts, Brand Manager at C.K Tools, says, “There is a very real problem in the industry of electricians finding themselves ill equipped to tackle LS0H cable. The rising prevalence of LS0H is necessary and will undoubtedly save lives. We must prepare for it to become the norm. Our new cable stripper has been precision engineered to take on the challenge. Users can also expect the quality, durability, and ease of use that we pride ourselves on at C.K Tools - always ready to meet the most demanding needs of trade professionals.”

Fergus helps E&P Electrics (Bedale) Ltd save time and money

Founded in 1979, E&P Electrics (Bedale) Ltd has grown to become one of the leading electrical contractors in north Yorkshire with a reputation for quality workmanship, reliability, and customer service. Its team of trained and experienced electricians specialise in a range of electrical services, including installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems, lighting and power solutions for commercial, industrial and domestic properties. The team is made up of electricians who are trained to work with the latest technologies and equipment, with work is carried out in accordance with all relevant regulations and industry standards. Services include installation and maintenance of electrical systems for homes and businesses, lighting design and installation, energy saving solutions, electrical testing and inspections and emergency electrical services. The team also offers a range of renewable energy solutions, including solar PV installations, battery storage solutions and electric vehicle charging points. E&P Electrics (Bedale) Ltd is now using Fergus job management software to help the team behind the scenes and has seen many benefits. “Before we started using Fergus in the office, we were very paper based. Time sheets, purchase ledgers - everything was on paper. It was very time consuming,” says Lindsay Peacock, who works at the company. “Since we moved to Fergus, the office has just revolutionised. We no longer have to wait a week for time sheets to come in - we're virtually paper free now. The data entry across the whole of the office has been significantly reduced which is saving us so much time and money. “It is a real advantage to be able to track in real time. We're getting live data back from all of our electricians, we're not having to wait a week to see the status of a job. We are probably no more than 24 hours behind knowing what's going on in any one job at any one time. Not having to wait for the data is great and means we can keep an eye on the profitability of every job to the day. “We're also seeing a lot more accurate data come back because the manual input side of things has been significantly reduced. It's made our day to day office work a lot smoother and a lot more profitable because of the amount of data we can see at the click of a button. Take the status bars on the home screen on Fergus, for instance - there's so much information there with one click. “If you're looking to move from a paper-based system onto more of a data entry system, I would highly recommend Fergus. It's been fantastic for us.” “We are delighted E&P Electrics (Bedale) Ltd are getting so much from Fergus,” says James Chillman, UK Country Manager for Fergus. “By automating just a few processes, you can potentially claw back time and money. As a business owner it does not make sense to keep wasteful and time-sapping habits in place when the answer is just a few mouse clicks or finger swipes away!”

A clever combination from Makita

Makita UK has added a new two-piece combo kit to its range of LXT products, to offer professionals a useful set of tools at good value. The new DLX2460TJ Combo Kit features two of Makita’s most popular professional cordless power tools - the DTD153Z 18V LXT Brushless Impact Driver and DHP487Z 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill. Housed in a Type 3 Makpac Connector Case for easy storage and transportation, the kit also includes two 5.0Ah 18V LXT BL1850B Batteries and the DC18RC Fast Charger, which can be used across Makita’s LXT range. The DTD153Z is an impact driver with 170Nm max torque, delivering a no-load speed of 3,400rpm and providing up to 3,600 impacts per minute - making it capable of driving screws up to 125mm into timber without a pilot hole and up to 30% faster than a conventional drill/driver. Makita’s compact DHP487Z 18V LXT Brushless Combi Drill features variable speed control to deliver up to 1,700rpm, 25,500bpm and 40Nm maximum fastening torque for a wide range of drilling, fastening and hammer drilling applications. Weighing up to 1.7kg, this lightweight and portable combi drill is a versatile power tool that can handle a wide scope of applications. It also has a single sleeve keyless chuck for quick and easy bit changes with 20 torque settings, plus drill mode for added fastening control. Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita says, “Our Combo Kits are incredibly popular with many different product configuration options available to suit individual requirements, applications and budgets. What’s more, these kits offer significant savings when compared to buying the components individually, making these a much more economical purchase for end users. We have added the new DLX2460TJ 2-Piece Combo Kit to our line-up to offer even more choice, with a premium range of power tools that can tackle a wide variety of jobs on site. Plus, the kit includes two batteries and a fast charger which can be used across our entire LXT cordless platform – which now spans over 290 products.”

Major tradeshow exhibits high levels of visitor safety

Tradefair Düsseldorf has taken steps to reduce its energy consumption and improve guest safety by installing the latest in digital switchgear. Tradefair Düsseldorf has upgraded its electricity distribution by installing 30 panels of ABB UniGear ZS1 medium-voltage switchgear and 23 Ultra-Fast Earthing Switch (UFES) arc-fault protectors. The project - which was implemented with ABB’s business partner WISAG Elektrotechnik GmbH - takes safety to the next level and brings improved power and switchgear reliability, while retaining the customer’s existing infrastructure and meeting strict utility requirements about connections to the grid. One of the main priorities for the project was to reduce the potential for dangerous arc faults within the 613,000m2 exhibition space. Demand for power in an exhibition is extremely intense and the risk of potentially fatal arc faults is high, with temperatures in the centre of an electric arc reaching as high as 20,000°C. The pressure this creates can be lethal to anyone nearby, causing a fire as well as serious damage to the switchgear’s metal structures. The high number of UFES systems now installed allows Tradefair Düsseldorf to shut down any internal arc fault in less than four milliseconds after detection, which is 20 times faster than standard equivalent solutions, without disrupting the power supply. The investment also supports Tradefair Düssledorf’s sustainability targets as the digital switchgear panels consume less energy. For example, over an estimated 30-year period, the 30 UniGear ZS1 panels, also equipped with non-conventional instrument transformers, will save approximately 200MWh, by utilising current sensors based on the Rogowski coil principle, as well as voltage sensors based on the voltage divider principle, which is equivalent to running a TV set for 275 years. Barbara Panella, Technology Manager of ABB's Distribution Solutions Division, adds, “Our overriding focus is on working together with our partners and clients to meet their changing needs and challenges via digitalisation initiatives that deliver a smarter, safer and more reliable flow of electricity. This integrated ABB digital solution not only makes sure the show goes on uninterrupted while using less energy, but that exhibitors and visitors are as safe as possible.”

Report highlights challenges affecting electrification and energy security

Vattenfall Networks has mapped out five major developments set to affect electricity connections and has provided actionable measures to help UK businesses prepare for the challenges ahead on the path to net zero. Demand for power is increasing dramatically and expected to double - or even triple - by 2050 in order to decarbonise the economy. ‘Energy Security in an Increasingly Electrical World’ explains what businesses can do if they discover there is not enough capacity in the local grid to meet their electricity demands, or that bottlenecks in the application process for new grid connections will cause delays to production and decarbonisation schedules. If the UK’s electricity networks are to meet the increased demands for electric fleets, heat pumps and net zero industrial processes - whilst maintaining secure supplies of electricity - significant reinforcements and upgrades will be required throughout the transmission and distribution networks, as will businesses’ own private wire networks. Vattenfall’s report highlights the options and the benefits of partnering with an Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO), which can offer an alternative route to connect to the electricity grid, contributes to the costs of network upgrades by investing their own funds, and can reserve grid capacity for free on behalf of their clients. Likewise, for Private Wire Networks operators concerned about the responsibility of upgrading ageing infrastructure or lacking the required funds, Vattenfall’s report details how new models for energy infrastructure management, like Power-as-a-Service, provide capital funding for upgrades, renewable energy systems, and energy efficiency improvements, as well as removing the risks associated with the ongoing maintenance and operation of complex private wire networks. Suzanna Lashford, Business Development Manager at Vattenfall Networks, says, “It doesn’t matter what your business does, everyone will need more electricity to reach net zero. But it is vital to start mapping out your transition now to secure access to power, avoid downtime, and loss of revenue from power outages. Our new report provides expert insights and offers UK businesses solutions for the challenges emerging in the energy sector, to help them to plan for net zero and ensure security of supply.” Read the report here.

Johnson Controls releases web-based management tool

Johnson Controls has released its C•CURE IQ Security Client, a security operations solution encompassing a feature set designed for both access control and video surveillance, to create a complete, streamlined enterprise security system. The C•CURE IQ Security Client combines enterprise access control and video surveillance together in a single, intuitive interface. “The global security market is undergoing significant transformations led by customer needs for modernisation and optimisation of their security hardware and software,” says Sanjeev Singh, Vice President of Product Management, Johnson Controls. “As part of this evolution, we are excited to release C•CURE IQ, the natural extension of C•CURE 9000, as a web-based offering, which now includes video surveillance capability. Its web-based security client is critical for the growing needs for anytime, anywhere access to enterprise security operations.” The C•CURE IQ Security Client's feature set was designed to create a complete streamlined end-to-end solution from software and controllers to recorders and cameras. The C•CURE IQ is the evolution of the C•CURE 9000, leveraging its powerful access control features to meet today’s challenging compliance needs and supported by Johnson Controls’ renowned iSTAR Controllers, known for their reliability and cyber security. The C•CURE IQ Security Client is designed for the web to simplify installations, offering flexibility in deployments and personalisation of the overall user experience. With this approach, users can take advantage of several benefits, such as: Minimised training required with a streamlined and intuitive icon-driven user interface down to a tablet, where operators only see what they need. Pre-configured or custom user interface (UI) layouts, tailored specifically to staff roles and responsibilities. Enhanced authentication options are available leveraging an external OAuth2 compliant identity provider for single sign-on (SSO) or two-factor authentication (2FA), negating the need to remember additional usernames and passwords. Flexible deployment options for cloud, on-premises or hybrid. C•CURE IQ Security Client also offers natural video surveillance and intuitive camera control with no extra integration licensing. “C•CURE IQ v3.00.1 is the future of enterprise security operation centres and signifies the most robust and feature-rich web offering that can help customers transition from silo systems to a unified security software platform,” says Sanjeev. “Its powerful web UI supports security operation personnel’s everyday device interactions as well as our latest security innovations for a holistic security operation.”

BCIA report reveals BEMS sector valued at £835m in 2022

Data from the Building Controls Industry Association’s (BCIA) latest Market Information Service (MIS) report has estimated that the Building Energy Management System (BEMS) sector is now worth around £835.8M to the UK economy. The new total represents an increase of 8.0% from the 2021 figure, and the BCIA believes the sector will be pivotal to the government’s decarbonisation agenda, with building controls playing a fundamental role in realising a carbon neutral built environment. BCIA Graeme Rees comments, “The 2022 full year results saw the highest set of figures recorded to date and the opportunities are undoubtedly there for the building controls industry to build from this position of strength.” The MIS report lets BCIA members see trends, market growth and segmentation in the BEMS industry. The latest growth reflects an upturn in the market as estate owners and facilities managers demand greater energy performance and a reduction in energy costs, and reinforces the BCIA’s collective influence in government policy and the deployment of building controls by building users and developers. The report also shows that BCIA members accounted for 71.3% of the total market volume, compared to 68.6% in 2021. Manufacturers’ revenues rose by 7.7%, up to £86.9M, whilst system installers’ revenues rose by 10.4%, up to £404.9M. The 2022 figures suggest that system installers have enjoyed increased revenues from installed systems, while manufacturers have continued to increase their third-party product sales, particularly to system installers. Graeme concludes, “The continuing growth trajectory for the sector is hopefully a sign of growing awareness for the value of building controls in contributing to better management of energy efficiency in buildings. The Prime Minister’s decision to disband the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and replace it with three new departments; the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, and the Department for Business and Trade, will bring a fresh focus on net zero - and bring with it a clearer strategy for positive environmental change. The BCIA looks forward to working with the government, influencing policy and legislation to help fulfil the decarbonisation agenda.”

New role created at A. Alexander Group

A. Alexander Group has promoted David Hart to Operations Manager, a newly created post for the company. Previously Contracts Manager, David has been with the business for more than two years and held a number of senior roles within the industry including Training Officer at SECTT, the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust. In his new role, David will oversee the operational management of the Electrical, Mechanical and Fire and Safety divisions, supporting project managers and site supervisors. He is also responsible for the company’s apprenticeship programme which has an annual intake of new recruits across all the divisions. Stewart Alexander, Managing Director says, “David’s new role is going to have a really positive impact on our team, as well as bolster the management group as we continue to grow the business and expand our services. He is a terrific mentor and role model to our apprentices and a great asset to the company.” A. Alexander Group has promoted David Hart to Operations Manager, a newly created post for the company. Previously Contracts Manager, David has been with the business for more than two years and held a number of senior roles within the industry including Training Officer at SECTT, the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust. In his new role, David will oversee the operational management of the Electrical, Mechanical and Fire and Safety divisions, supporting project managers and site supervisors. He is also responsible for the company’s apprenticeship programme which has an annual intake of new recruits across all the divisions. Stewart Alexander, Managing Director says, “David’s new role is going to have a really positive impact on our team, as well as bolster the management group as we continue to grow the business and expand our services. He is a terrific mentor and role model to our apprentices and a great asset to the company.”

Trial shows that electric vehicle charging will help the grid

Electric vehicles could be the largest contributor to flexible capacity in our electricity grid, according to recent data captured by myenergi. In recent months, myenergi has supported UK grid events with thousands of customers signed up to offer flexible capacity. With more than 13MW of aggregated flexible capacity in total - equivalent to the average power consumption of 40,000 homes - myenergi has been sending commands to zappi chargers that have responded to grid events by reducing their consumption by an average of 2.4kW per household. This offers far more flexible capacity than other demand side response (DSR) platforms, which have largely seen consumers reduce home energy consumption by turning off lights and other appliances. Lee Sutton, co-founder and CEO of myenergi, says, “Data we have collected from recent grid events prove that, far from being a hindrance on the electricity system, electric vehicles are ready to deliver huge benefits in terms of the flexible capacity they offer when shifting charging demand to avoid grid constraints. While we recognise that consumer incentives will be a feature of the market, what is especially impressive is that we have been able to deliver this simply by asking customers to sign up to our DSR service. “Done right, grid flexibility should not inconvenience consumers. Indeed, it’s clear that our customers have barely noticed these brief interruptions to their EV charging, as their vehicles have invariably still been able to finish charging. “Demand side response is therefore about intelligent devices responding autonomously to remote commands. If it is to be successfully and widely - rather than grudgingly - adopted by consumers at scale, it really needs to be happening without the user even noticing. The industry should not be sending the message that the future of our energy system is contingent on everyone rushing around just before 5.30pm to switch off all their appliances and light some candles.” Smart zappi EV chargers can be instructed to pause or reduce consumption - and in the future, ‘turn up’ events are much more likely, where the grid will have a surplus of clean, renewable electricity and will request chargers to switch on or increase their consumption to soak up this excess supply, rather than energy providers being forced to turn off this generation. While smart charging using the myenergi zappi will typically mean that EV drivers are charging outside of peak hours by default, myenergi has demonstrated the impact that eco-smart devices can have on delivering significant flexibility in energy capacity.

TESP partners with JobsAware to tackle rogue trainers

The industry’s fight against ‘rogue trainers’ offering inadequate and unethical training packages has been boosted by a new partnership between The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP) and JobsAware, a government-backed organisation set up to prevent job scams and labour market abuses. TESP’s Rogue Trainers campaign was launched in 2021 to warn against training providers who offer expensive packages that are not industry-recognised, targeting those wishing to retrain in skilled trades such as electrical work. High-pressure sales techniques are often used alongside a large financial commitment and loans, but often the training is low quality and does not live up to what was promised, leaving learners out of pocket and feeing desperate. The TESP website has advice for those interested in becoming an electrician on the correct routes to becoming qualified, tips on choosing a training provider and the red flags to avoid. Since its launch, the Rogue Trainers advice has received over 20,000 views, and TESP is regularly contacted by those who signed up for a training package and qualifications they now realise are unattainable. Through the new partnership TESP will continue to provide information and signpost individuals to report rogue trainers to JobsAware, who are well placed to take action and progress cases with the relevant authorities. Often, the training providers in question will repeatedly close down and set up businesses under different guises in order to avoid detection, an issue both partners are monitoring. “We’re absolutely delighted to form this partnership with JobsAware who, like us, are campaigning against unscrupulous training providers,” says Ruth Devine, Chair of TESP. “Using its well-established links and history of tackling similar issues, we can continue to shine a light on bad practice and take action to stop these companies reinventing themselves, scamming people and harming lives.” Keith Rosser, Chair of JobsAware, adds, “We’re really pleased to be working to tackle training provider scams with TESP. In recent years we’ve witnessed an unfortunate increase in the number of people contacting us with complaints about their training, and so our partnership with TESP will allow us to pool resources with the aim of addressing this problem head on.”