Ellis Patents puts summit tunnel on the right track

Ellis Patents has secured an order that has seen its Pegasus cable hangers hung at one metre intervals throughout the 1.6-mile tunnel, of one the world’s oldest railway tunnels. The Summit Tunnel, which runs beneath the Pennines between Littleborough in Greater Manchester and Walsden near Todmorden in West Yorkshire, was constructed between 1838 and 1841. At the time of its opening, it was the longest railway tunnel in the world. Ellis Patents’ Pegasus cable hangers were installed as part of a track renewal project being carried out in conjunction with Network Rail under the auspices of the Central Rail System Alliance (CRSA). Kelly Brown, Ellis Patents’ head of sales, says: “The size of the railway structure in the UK is staggering. There’s over 20,000 miles of track, 30,000 bridges, tunnels and viaducts and many thousands of signals, level crossing and stations – and huge swathes of it date back to the 19th century.” “With that in mind every product we design and manufacture for the rail industry is developed with longevity as well as ease of installation, maintenance and renewal very much to the fore.” As with all its products, Pegasus was designed and developed completely in-house by Ellis Patents. Featuring an aluminium spine that can support any number and combination of plastic cable hangers, the modular cable hanging system is stronger and lighter than any other similar products – and because it’s been designed to be made to order it’s also the most flexible solution available. “Traditionally cable hanging systems have been anything but convenient,” continues Kelly. “They have come in set sizes and configurations; have weighed so much they needed at least two people to install them; and because they have been manufactured from galvanised steel they are subject to corrosion. In contrast, Pegasus is light, but exceedingly strong, corrosion and fire resistant and has all the necessary rail industry approvals.”

Northampton engineering firm secures £250,000 growth package

Bowers Electrical Engineering Services (“BEES”) has secured £250,000 from Maven Capital Partners (“Maven”) E&SE Midlands Debt Finance fund, through the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF) and backed by the Coronavirus Business Interruption Scheme Loan (“CBILS”). The Northampton company will be utilising the funding to purchase new materials and cover labour costs – enabling it to deliver two new contracts that the business has recently obtained and will create two new jobs as a result of the funding. BEES provides electrical engineering services through four key services offerings: validation of decontamination equipment, design and building of specific machinery, control and automation of electrical panels, and a customer part distribution service. The business provides their services to a range of clients within the medical, life sciences and engineering sectors, including the NHS, CIS and Miele Professional. Overseen by Managing Director Chris Bowers, who has professionally shaped and led his team to build their service range into today’s diversified offerings, and demand for these specialisms continues to grow as businesses increase their automated machinery and systems investments. Chris Bowers, Managing Director for Bowers Electrical Engineering Services Ltd, comments: “Following this MEIF funding, we are now in a very strong working capital position, allowing us to spring forward and deliver the next level of our growth trajectory and tender for all sizes of Machine Control and Automation projects. Many thanks MEIF, Maven and Graham for your initial and ongoing support.’’ Graham Hall, Investment Manager for Maven, adds: “It’s great to be able to assist Chris with this important Growth Capital Loan to allow the firm to seize upon some great business development opportunities proactively sourced during lockdown. Many thanks also to Barclays which made the introduction upon Chris’s request, showing how the MEIF can bridge gaps for businesses seeking out funding opportunities.” Lewis Stringer, Senior Manager at the British Business Bank, says: “We are delighted to see this latest MEIF deal helping another business to continue to grow and secure additional market opportunities. The Fund is committed to supporting Midlands’ firms, such as Bowers Electrical Engineering Services, expand.” Vicky Hlomuka, growth hub manager at SEMLEP, adds: “Not only is the electrical engineering sector itself an important part of our local and national economy, but BEES also provides services to the NHS, and the engineering, medical and life science industries, whose value is seen more clearly now than ever. I'm delighted to hear that they have secured funding from the MEIF to help continue their growth journey.” The Midlands Engine Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank. The Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS) was managed by the British Business Bank on behalf of, and with the financial backing of, the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS). The scheme ended on 31 March and has been replaced by the Recovery Loan Scheme.

Milestone reached in Purfleet power project

Work to install new power infrastructure to reinforce electricity supplies in and around Purfleet has reached a new milestone. The first of two new transformers has now been installed and energised as part of the £5.6million project with the second one to be introduced and complete the scheme next year. The new electrical equipment, which also includes new circuit breakers, will help maintain reliable electricity supplies for around 18,000 local homes and businesses and future proof the Thurrock area for the anticipated rise in electric vehicles and heat pumps in coming years. Transformers lower the voltage, enabling electricity to safely flow down UK Power Networks’ cables to people’s homes while the company will also put in place new switching equipment which enables power cuts to be fixed remotely. Paul Wisdom, project manager, for UK Power Networks, says: “We are effectively halfway there now with the first transformer installed and looking forward to completing a vital project for the Purfleet area next year with the energising of a second. “The work we are doing will have lasting benefits for the local community with thousands of homes and businesses knowing they have more robust power supplies as the country as a whole moves towards its net zero goals.” UK Power Networks is investing £600 million in the electricity network across the South East, London and East of England this year. More than eight million homes and businesses are connected to electricity via the company’s cables and substations.

Drayton unveils updated online training academy

Giving installers more reason to choose Drayton, the leading heating control manufacturer has announced a relaunch of its online training academy, 9º Know How, with a sleek new design and two new training modules. Accompanying the existing Wiser module, 9º Know How has been expanded with the introduction of the TRV and Digistat courses. The five-part TRV course encompasses Drayton’s full range of thermostatic radiator valves, including the TRV4, RT range and Wiser Radiator Thermostat, and covers everything from an overview of the different options, through to installation, balancing and multi-zoning. Alongside this is the new Digistat course, the latest addition to Drayton’s best-selling programmable thermostat range, which has been transformed with Bluetooth connectivity for app control. This new four-part course tells installers everything they need to know about the new Digistat, from a general overview of the four variants in the range, through to installation tips and tricks as well as how to help your customers master the app. For those who haven’t yet completed the Wiser module on 9º Know How, this covers everything from installation and troubleshooting, through to handing over the smart multi-zone heating system to customers. The 30-minute training module is delivered through a series of videos that are simple to follow. Once the videos have been watched, installers then complete the short multiple-choice tests to achieve Wiser Approved status from the comfort of their own home. Clare Stevens, Trade Marketing Manager, says: “Here at Drayton, we’re all about supporting our loyal installers and making sure they have the resources they need to fit our product, which is why we’re excited to have expanded our online training academy, 9º Know How. Having free and easily-accessible product training is key for development no matter whether you’re a seasoned professional looking for a refresher or just starting out in the industry, which is why we remain committed to providing the highest level of support possible. "Whilst the existing Wiser module is great for those looking to expand their knowledge on smart solutions, the two new courses on TRVs and the Digistat allow members to expand and develop their knowledge on some of our most popular products that they’re fitting daily.” The new online training academy is just one of many benefits offered to 9° Network members. Other perks include access to the discounted Drayton shop for limited special offers, 5 year extended warranties, as well as listings on both the Drayton and Wiser consumer websites. Featuring on the ‘Find an installer’ section on both these websites will help generate leads to grow the installers business.

Megaman launches its latest high bay offering - GEO 2

Megaman has expanded its impressive product portfolio with the launch of GEO 2, a new and innovative integrated LED high bay lighting system. The system, which can be controlled remotely for ultimate ease of use, provides a durable and energy efficient lighting solution, ideal for all indoor commercial high ceiling areas. The latest adaptable fixture from Megaman, the new GEO 2 has been designed with a passive cooling structure and lightweight graphene housing. This ensures it cannot overheat from continual use and increases the product’s energy efficiency. This also impacts on the working life of the product. In fact, GEO 2 has an impressive L70B50 50,000hrs usage at Ta40ºC. Longevity is further ensured by its strength and high vandal resistance, with a rating of IK08, plus it is IP65 rated for dust and water resistance. The cost-effective GEO 2 has a high luminous efficacy of 165lm/W, allowing for significant energy savings in comparison with traditional high bays. Flicker free, the product maintains a consistent output. GEO 2 is also available with a motion sensor remote control, affording customers the versatility and flexibility to gain instant control over their lighting and energy use. Other optional accessories include a 1-10V dimming module, IP65 rated dimming wire and a motion sensor kit. Micaela Abbott, National Sales Manager at Megaman concludes: “GEO 2 provides a reliable lighting option for any high ceiling area, including halls, warehouses, manufacturing bays, trade fairs, retail and exhibitions. With a range of accessories available, customers are afforded the flexibility they need to create optimal lighting for larger spaces.”

myenergi co-founders take home prestigious national award

Jordan Brompton and Lee Sutton, co-founders of myenergi, have topped the ‘Rising Star’ North regional category at this year’s EY Entrepreneur Of The Year programme. Celebrating the UK’s most ambitious business leaders, the programme recognises their ambitious journeys, disruptive thinking and commitment to making a positive impact on the economy. Renowned for pioneering the world’s first eco-smart electric vehicle (EV) charger, the judges were impressed with myenergi’s disruptive thinking and commitment to sustainability. Since founding the business in 2016, the renewable duo have launched an industry-defining portfolio of green technologies and opened subsidiaries all over the world. Following their regional success, Jordan and Lee will now progress to the UK finals, with the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year overall winner set to be announced in November. Jordan comments: “Being nominated in the programme – let alone taking home an award – has been a real honour. Considering the challenges of the past 18 months, it’s a privilege to be recognised for our diligence, enthusiasm and commitment to innovation. “When Lee and I founded myenergi, the vision was simple – create a positive impact, push the boundaries of possibility and change the world through pioneering green technologies. We started with nothing, except for a few good ideas and a serious passion for change. Just five years later, we’ve turned our dream into a reality, recently shipping our 100,000th unit and building from a team of two to a workforce in excess of 200. “I’m looking forward to sharing our story at the national finals. Being able to do this alongside my business partner Lee is a true reflection of our dynamism, passion, enthusiasm and the success story that we’ve collectively created.” Lynn Rattigan, EY’s Chief Operating Officer for the UK & Ireland and EY Entrepreneur Of The Year UK Partner Sponsor, says: “At EY we want to build trust in capital markets, advocating for inclusive capitalism, helping our clients navigate uncertainty and catch the next wave of economic growth by coming together as one firm to solve their most complex challenges. “At a time when many businesses have had to rapidly react to the challenges posed by the pandemic, these entrepreneurs have shown they can innovate, respond and adapt while also creating long term value for their clients and broader stakeholders.”

SELECT and SCOTSS issue urgent alert over sub-standard products

SELECT has joined the Society of Chief Officers of Trading Standards in Scotland (SCOTSS) to warn that all heat, smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms being fitted under new legislation must comply with the relevant product standards. The leading bodies’ joint alert about sub-standard and potentially unsafe products comes as the February 2022 deadline for compliance with new Scottish Government guidance for all Scottish homes gets ever nearer. The warning also echoes guidance from SELECT and SCOTSS about what householders and landlords should do to comply with the new rules – and why they should use a competent person, such as a professional electrician, to carry out any necessary installation work. SCOTSS Chair, Graeme Paton, says: “This is a major change to what is required in terms of fire and CO detection in dwellings and we must get the message across that all new and existing systems have to be wholly compliant. “There is a risk of scammers taking advantage of this situation so we would also urge householders to only use genuine SELECT members or local firms that are approved by Trading Standards to do this work.” SCOTSS is now advising all homeowners to make sure all alarms are labelled and marked with the following: Manufacturer’s name and address Batch code/date of manufacture Model number and type The relevant standard number for the type of alarm installed. For heat detectors, products should be identified as compliant with BS EN 5446-2, while smoke alarms and multi-sensor alarms should be identified as compliant with BS EN 14604 and CO alarms should be identified as compliant with BS EN 50291-1. Multi-sensor alarms may also be identified as compliant with BS EN 54-29. Anyone coming across non-compliant products should contact the Scottish Government-funded consumer helpline Advice Direct Scotland on 0808 164 6000 and information will be passed onto local trading standards where appropriate. The warning follows the launch by SELECT last month of a new public safety campaign to help raise awareness of the new legislation, including an engaging and informative animation and a dedicated page on its new website which offers FAQs and a range of downloadable resources for the public and electrical contractors. Bob Cairney, Director of Technical Services at SELECT, comments: “The clock is ticking. February will be upon us before we know it and it is of the utmost importance that both householders and those installing the alarms clearly understand what is required for compliance. “SCOTSS has rightly warned consumers of the danger that unscrupulous people might try to take advantage of those who are unsure about how to comply and about the need to use trusted sources of information. “For mains-powered alarms or where householders need help to install battery-powered alarms, we would ask that they use a qualified electrician, with SELECT able to put them in touch with their nearest professional.” The Tolerable Standard, which comes into effect from 1 February, 2022, requires that all homes in Scotland must have satisfactory equipment to detect and give warning of fire and CO. In practice, this means a smoke alarm on every storey, including hallways and landings, a smoke alarm in the most frequented part of the house, e.g. the lounge, a heat alarm in the kitchen, and a CO alarm wherever there is a fuel burning appliance or flue. In addition, to ensure there is an effective warning system to keep everyone and their property safe, all the heat and smoke alarms must be interlinked and be either mains-powered with battery back-up or battery powered by a tamper-proof long-life battery. The new joint warning is the latest initiative from SELECT, which has a long track record of promoting safety messages around the industry and safeguarding the welfare of customers as well as the 15,000 people and 3,500 apprentices who work in it. The association has also been leading a long-running campaign with other leading industry bodies to ensure that those who work in the industry do so in a safe and competent manner. It currently is engaged with the Scottish Government over the regulation of the industry.

Dominick Sandford promoted to Managing Director

Dominick Sandford has been promoted to Managing Director of Manutan’s Traders Division businesses, IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect. Having been at the company for over five years and with a broad background in category management, supply chain, sales and marketing, Dominick is well positioned to drive the two businesses forward and continue their ‘trusted to deliver’ ethos. The appointment follows current Managing Director, Marco Verdonkschot’s promotion to Chief Operating Officer for Manutan Group, where he will oversee the operations of all companies within the Manutan family, which includes IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect. Dominick brings with him over 20 years’ experience in product and category management, trading, supply chain, sales and marketing and an impressive track record of leading high performing teams to deliver sales growth and strategy. Since joining IronmongeryDirect in 2016, Dominick has progressed through the business in several roles, most recently as Director and Head of Supply Chain, Merchandising & Marketing. On his new role, Dominick says: “I am extremely honoured to receive this promotion and the opportunity to build on the very solid foundations that Marco has put in place over the last two years. I will continue to instil our company values to lead a successful and motivated workforce to grow and develop the businesses, underpinned with a best in class service for our trade customers.” On Dominick Sandford’s appointment, Marco Verdonkschot comments: “I have had the pleasure to have worked with Dominick very closely over the past two years and am confident that his strengths in leadership, commercial acumen and unwavering commitment to delivering the best customer experience will take IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect to the next level. I’m delighted to pass the baton over to Dominick and wish him every success in his new role.” IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect are part of the Manutan Group, a leading multi-channel B2B retailer group, operating across Europe. With several industry accolades under its belt, including recognition as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces for two years running, IronmongeryDirect has been supplying architectural ironmongery to tradespeople for over 50 years and has the UK’s widest range with over 18,000 products in stock. ElectricalDirect joined the group in 2017 and has over 12,000 electrical products available, including everything from sockets and wiring to smart home products and smoke alarms.

Smart controls boom drives efficiency innovations

As Statista research predicts the smart home sector will grow by 15.06% each year to a projected market volume of £9.249bn by 2025, a polymer specialist has upgraded its smart temperature control system to satisfy growing demand. To meet this demand amid the boom across residential, commercial and mixed-use buildings, the latest upgrades to the NEA SMART 2.0 have been made to help contractors and developers deliver efficiency on each project. As building use and occupant habits change over time, the device also gives continued flexibility and adaptability to contractors and consultants to future-proof developments while the smart home market grows, as Franz Huelle, Head of Technical at REHAU Building Solutions, explains. “As we see offices and shops being converted into homes and flexible working spaces, the way we use buildings is changing more than ever, and with that so are occupant temperature requirements. “In the wake of sustainability and renewable energy targets and changes in legislation, future-proofing buildings in terms of efficiency and environmental credentials must be prioritised, no matter the building type. With the latest upgrades to NEA SMART 2.0, we are looking to assist contractors and consultants with ensuring all buildings meet efficiency requirements no matter the use, while satisfying the growing demand for smart controls long into the future.” Suitable for new build and retrofitting for up to 60 rooms, the NEA SMART 2.0 uses an intelligent algorithm to regulate temperature and improve efficiency. Data learnt from occupant habits, in addition to remote sensors installed indoors and outside for weather compensation, allows the system to reach the desired end user temperature without excessive demand on the energy source. To further help with efficiency demand, an optimised start feature has now been integrated. This begins to heat or cool ahead of the programmed time to reach the desired temperature in a controlled way to make sure the space is comfortable for occupants at the right time without excessive energy usage. A manual and automatic boost function is also available should the desired temperature need to be reached sooner. Franz adds: “Energy efficiency and driving down running costs are key requirements of all end users - residential or commercial - and developments in government legislation is only going to increase this priority. Consultants and contractors are now required to deliver buildings that facilitate this need for efficiency and sustainability long into the future. “These upgrades will hopefully provide them with an easy to install and flexible system that lowers energy costs in a variety of building types. The smart home market is constantly growing, and we are optimistic that with these additional features, the NEA SMART 2.0 will continue to satisfy growing demand for this technology long into the future.”

ESP adds new 2K Wi-Fi Doorbell to access control range

ESP has added a 2K (4MP) Wi-Fi Wired Doorbell to its Aperta access control range, offering installers a higher specification, superior resolution product that it believes will perform extremely well in the market. With the typical resolution for video doorbells in the market currently at 1080p (2 megapixel), ESP’s 2K (4 megapixel) offer, will set the new doorbell apart in a competitive market place, providing a key selling point for installers and end users. The new Aperta Wi-Fi doorbell connects directly to a smart phone offering instant front door security and convenience to users.  2K (4MP) live view, visitor recording, automatic motion detection, and clear two-way audio are some of the key features and ESP has maintained its subscription free status, with the new door station available via the ESP Smart 2K APP. It will activate a notification to the user’s smartphone when the doorbell has been pressed.  In the event that the user misses the notification, the event that triggered the notification can be recalled, as the doorbell has internal storage that will capture all activity subscription free.  For additional security the doorbell features motion and human detection feature. The camera offers a wide 170⁰ angle view to ensure good camera coverage.  The doorbell also comes supplied with an angle bracket, which will not only assist with installation, but will help angle the camera to ensure it covers the area where visitors will be standing. For additional chime options, the product is supplied with a mechanical bell converter, and an Alexa skill has been developed to sound a chime when the Wi-Fi doorbell has been pressed. In summary the key features are: Full 2K (4MP) live view and recording No subscription or additional fees required 170° wide angle camera view Motion or human activated video record Clear two–way audio Supplied with angle backet kit Supports Alexa Dot door chime function and mechanical bell converter IP65 rated ingress protection Operates on both 2.4GHz & 5 GHz Wi-Fi & Ethernet Network Connection The new 2K Wi-Fi doorbell will sit alongside ESP’s growing Aperta Access Control range which also includes the Wi-Fi 1080p battery doorbell and the Wi-Fi 1080p wired doorbell, both available in black and silver options.