Industry calls for SABS to reconsider its ‘internal directive’
The Electrical Engineering and Allied Industries Association (EEAIA) has called on Dr Boni Mehlomakulu, CEO of South African Bureau of Standards, to reconsider the SABS’ “unilateral decision regarding type testing at NEFTA” that was made “without due consultation or consideration of the resultant negative impact on local companies”.
Johan Basson, Exco member at EEAIA, says the decision by SABS to cease ‘partial testing’ is “irresponsible and counter-productive” because it will damage the economy, lead to job losses and stifle technological progress in the South African manufacturing sector – and it is contrary to SABS’ claim of “partnering with industry”.
Smart grid conference – is SA ready for advanced metering infrastructure?
André Hoffman (SAIEE president); Prof Massoud Amin (University of Minnesota); George Debbo (conference organiser, chairman SAIEE); Prof Qing-Guo Wang (University of Singapore); Lee Stogner (president, Vincula Group, USA); and Stan Bridgens (CEO SAIEE) at the South African Institute of Electrical Engineers (SAIEE) SmartGrid Conference held at the Eskom Academy of Learning in Midrand from 23 – 25 February.
Personality of the Month
In his role as centre director and chairman at the Copper Development Association Africa (CDAA), Evert Swanepoel works with the metal that is at the heart of the electrical industry – copper – which has an infinite recyclable life and is one of the most used, and reused, metals.
Because copper's recycling value is so great – premium-grade scrap has at least 95% of the value of the primary metal from newly mined ore – one of Evert’s tasks is to reduce the export of South African copper and retain it for local manufacturers.
Columns
In March, Terry Mackenzie Hoy’s column, Working Knowledge, discusses the ‘system’ whereby, when tendering for a contract, contractors name an amount for completing work on time, another amount for working safely and a further amount for good quality of work. If the targets are met, they are rewarded, however, if the targets are not met, they are penalised ...
In his column, Getting to grips with SANS 10142-1, Hannes Baard says the words ‘electrical installation’ are possibly the most misunderstood or interpreted words in electricians daily work lives ...
Mark Palmer of the Electrical Approved Inspection Authority Southern Africa (EAIASA) discusses the complexities of compliance when it comes to home automation, alternative supplies –and how these grey areas could have disastrous consequences unless applicable training for installers and electrical contractors is provided.
Mark Mfikoe, national director of the ECA(SA) put on another hat recently when he had to represent an ECA member at the CCMA – and resolved the matter ...
Nick du Plessis’ March column on training and development is a must read for all young electricians – although some more experienced electricians could also learn something about inspecting and testing electrical installations ...
Contractors’ corner
This regular feature covers new products and industry news – and this month we report on CBi-electric : low voltage’s new socket outlet with an integral USB port; Allbro’s announcement of assisted funding for prototypes of non-metallic enclosures; and ABB’s customised mobile substation.
Energy measurement and supply
In this month’s energy measurement and supply feature, Sparks covers an overview from Schneider Electric about building energy management; Comtest’s safety compliance tester; and HellermannTyton’s string combiner boxes for PV installations.
Buyer’s Guide
The March buyer’s guide lists manufacturers and distributors of products and services that cover the spectrum of tools and instruments – from insulation testers and power analysers to clamp-on meters and power tools and accessories.
Tools of the trade
The tools of the trade feature is another popular feature in Sparks and this month readers will be able to find out more about Comtest’s safety compliance tester that reduces the risk of shock and arc flash; ACDC Dynamics’ BM brand range of tools; Stanley’s autolocking tape; Brady’s tough outdoor identification label; portable inspection lights from Garry Lumpe Imports; Makita’s cordless tool range with brushless motors; Major Tech’s custom-built tool backpack that contains 22 high quality durable chrome vanadium steel tools; and Banding and ID Solutions’ range of tolls and ties.
Lighting
New products, lighting installations and technological advances are highlighted in the regular lighting feature. In March we feature BEKA’s classic Albany streetlight for Group A and B roads; Rhodam Evans from Major Tech discusses the company’s solution to flickering LED lights; Aurora shows off its range of LED downlights for commercial environments; Eurolux introduces pendants from the Eglo range; we look at Legrand’s lighting and motion management systems; and Chantal Finn, marketing communications manager at Philips Lighting gives her tips on creating a home office with lighting that will boost productivity.