AICO Provides Better Alarm Control

Aico Ltd, the UK's leading suppliers of domestic smoke and heat alarms, has launched two innovative control switches for its unique RadioLINK Fire and Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms.

With best practice supporting larger alarm systems comprising three, four or more smoke and heat alarms interconnected, occasionally also  with CO alarms, improved control functions are vital to ensure the system is simple for residents to use.

Aico's new Alarm Control Switches come in two variants - one for use with smoke and heat alarms and one for combined smoke, heat and CO alarm systems. Both Control Switches have a number of extra features to allow the residents extra control of their alarms. The 'Locate' feature allows the exact alarm that has triggered the system to be identified when all are sounding, the 'Test' feature can be used to test the entire systems without having to reach up to the alarms, and the 'Silence' feature will control any false alarms.

In addition to the features above, the combined smoke, heat and CO Alarm Control Switch has two  indicator lights that flash to immediately identify if the alarm has been caused by fire or CO, allowing residents to take the  correct course of action, i.e. ventilate the property and call a registered engineer if it is a CO leak or leave the property immediately if it is a fire and call Emergency Services.

Both Alarm Control Switches are powered by a  built-in ten year Lithium battery and communicate with the alarms using radio-frequency signals so there is no wiring whatsoever. This allows the switches to be installed with minimum expense and disruption.

For more information please go to www.aico.co.uk <http://www.aico.co.uk> or contact Aico on 0870 758 4000 or at sales@aico.co.uk <mailto:sales@aico.co.uk>.

Cablofil Scores Direct Hit with Major MOD Project

Steel wire specialist, Cablofil, is to provide the cable containment system for all data, comms, low voltage and weapons systems on the largest ships ever built for the British armed services.

The new Royal Navy aircraft carriers, HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales will each weigh 65,000 tonnes and are being built numerous shipyards across the UK for assembly at Rosyth, with the first due to enter service in 2016. The ships are being manufactured by the Aircraft Carrier Alliance, which consists BAE Systems, Babcock, Thales and the UK Ministry of Defence.

This is the first time that steel wire tray has been used in a major naval ship building project and the decision to use the Cablofil follows rigorous testing of their tray by Defence Equipment & Support in the MOD over a number of years.  Already proven to withstand short circuit testing thanks to independent tests commissioned by Cablofil, the system has also passed the MOD’s loading and shock tests with flying colours.

“Steel wire tray offers the MOD a number of advantages for this type of application,” explains Jonathan Long from BAE Systems. “Because it is 55% lighter than traditional perforated steel systems it provides very significant weight savings across the build, a critical consideration in the design of defence vessels. It is also 27% stronger than conventional systems, however, so at the same time it offers excellent load bearing and durability advantages.  And because it is so quick and easy to bend and shape on site it is ideally suited to the confined spaces that are inherent in the layout of a ship, making it a much more practical option.”

Around 25 products from the Cablofil range will be used across the two aircraft carriers including various depths of steel wire tray and a selection of brackets and fixings.  Cablofil has even designed some bespoke brackets for the application to meet naval architect specifications and accommodate military equipment. 

Based on the initial designs, Cablofil expects to supply around 120,000 metres of steel wire tray for the two ships but the true figure could be a lot higher.

“It’s still early days,” adds managing director of Cablofil, Paul Courson. “In addition to data comms, small power and weapons cabling, we anticipate that the Cablofil system may also be used for high voltage cables as the MOD’s tests have proved that it is suitable and the weight savings it offers would provide clear advantages.

“We are delighted to be involved in this high profile project and are confident that our success in being specified for these two iconic vessels will lead to further opportunities in the offshore and marine sectors.”

New Handyfacts for Electrical Contractors from AICO

Following the success of its Handybook, Aico has introduced a new Electrical Contractors Handyfacts mini magnetic booklet covering all the frequently needed information on Fire, Smoke and Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms .

The credit card sized Handyfacts has been designed to be kept in a contractor's toolbox or pocket, as a quick reminder of best practice.  It covers which alarm types to use in different areas of a property, explains siting requirements with clear diagrams and also gives details on wiring and accessories.

The Handyfacts explains the options that are available when it comes to alarm interconnection, including both hard-wiring and Aico's own RadioLINK Professional system which uses Radio Frequency signals to link alarms.

RadioLINK Professional has the advantages that it reduces installation time, costs and disruption associated with hard-wired interconnection.

The Handyfacts is ideal as a memory refresher, but for contractors wanting even more detail Aico recommends its Electrical Contractors Handybook which expands on all the topics covered in the Handyfacts.

Copies of the Electrical Contractors Handyfacts and Electrical Contractors Handybook are available from Aico by calling 0870 758 4000.

Courson takes an additional group role

Managing director of Cablofil UK, Paul Courson, is to take on the additional role of Commercial Director of Legrand in a move designed to further strengthen the solutions-driven approach across the group.

Paul has been managing director of Cablofil UK for three years, during which time the company’s customer-centric approach and focus on educating the marketplace about the advantages of steel wire tray systems has ensured that Cablofil remains the clear market leader.  Paul will continue to drive Cablofil UK’s market strategy as managing director but will pass much of his sales and operational duties to newly appointed national sales manager, Tim Brown, in order to enable him to take on his new group commercial director role within Legrand.

Explains Paul: “Tim will take on some of my former sales-related remit as national sales manager, continuing to encourage take up of the Cablofil system and grow our market share. He has been with Cablofil for over eight years, first as area sales manager and more recently as national specification manager, so he knows our products, our customers and our company culture inside out. The new post of national sales manager is a key role that will see Tim co-ordinating our sales team, ensuring we continue to offer the best solutions to customers and building on our excellent reputation for service.”

Following Paul's promotion, he will continue to be UK based and his new role as Legrand's commercial director in the UK will see him take on responsibility for the company's technical, training, quotation and specification teams across the group's cable management and wiring devices businesses, as well as coordinating project work for all business units, including power distribution.

Paul adds: “My experience of growing Cablofil’s brand and market share in the UK will be invaluable in my new group role, which aims to ensure a joined up approach across Legrand’s portfolio, allowing us to offer the best integrated solutions to customers, whatever their electrical requirements.  I am delighted that I will be able to combine my new role with a continued focus on building Cablofil’s reputation, revenue and commitment to customer care and, with Tim in post as national sales manager, our customers can also rely on continuity of service and after sales support.”

Click Lighting Catalogue Has It All!

With 278 pages, the new CLICK® lighting catalogue from CLICK Scolmore is bigger and better than ever and includes the complete range of lighting accessories featuring CLICK® Flameguard, Fumagalli and other popular CLICK® lighting products.  Encompassing innovative new designs, as well as refinements to a number of established ranges, the catalogue contains a huge selection of interior and exterior fittings for flush or surface mounting and guidance on their use.  All CLICK® lighting fixtures have been designed to utilise the very latest light sources to provide optimum performance and maximum energy savings.

Fumagalli offers a wide range of inspirational fittings in traditional and modern designs for commercial and domestic applications. The products offer a tough construction combined with a lifetime guarantee against corrosion, due to the unique resin formulation used in their manufacture.  Using a modular system, the Fumagalli range provides more than 3,600 possible combinations and includes hexagonal or square lanterns, half lanterns, globe diffusers, posts and columns, all of which are detailed with on-site photography and illustrations in the CLICK® catalogue.

Flameguard offers a comprehensive range of fixed, adjustable and eyeball versions of fire and acoustic rated downlighters. There is a Flameguard protected, fire and acoustic rated downlighter to suit virtually every installation included in the catalogue. Related products, including moisture seals and insulation support boxes, are also included along with technical specifications, lamp data and approvals and standards.

,All of the products featured in the catalogue incorporate ease of installation features, while providing the installer with a wide choice to meet every lighting requirement. Manufactured to all relevant UK and European standards, the CLICK® lighting range is available through a network of approved stockists throughout the UK and Ireland.

Quality and Service win the day for AICO Smoke Alarms

Chelmer Housing Partnership (CHP) is installing Aico's Ei161RC Ionisation and Ei166RC Optical mains powered smoke alarms throughout its properties in Essex.

The Aico alarms are being installed in all of CHP's properties as part of its seven year cyclical electrical test and upgrade programme.  Old alarms are also replaced by CHP in-house electricians on a responsive basis.

Each of CHP's properties will benefit from one Aico smoke alarm per level which will be installed in hallways and landings.

John Bartram, CHP Contract and Services Team Leader, chose the Ei160RC Series alarms as the company has enjoyed a good working relationship with Aico: "CHP has used Aico smoke alarms for a number of years and have been satisfied with the quality and service provided by Aico."

That service has included the provision of Tenant User Guides by Aico and now extends to specialist training in the form of the Aico Fire Products Trained Installer Scheme.  The free of charge scheme is open to electrical contractors across the UK and is dedicated to providing members with the information and training necessary to achieve a successful and effective fire alarm installation.

CHP's contractor, DSA Electrical has already completed the Aico Fire Products Trained Installer Scheme and its staff are to follow shortly.  "The aim,"

explains John, "is to ensure that the right alarms are installed in the correct locations."

The Ei160RC Series alarms from Aico feature Ei's unique 'Easi-fit' technology and high performance 10 year+ rechargeable Lithium cells to provide up to six months back-up power in the event of mains failure.  They can be interconnected via hard wiring or using the RadioLINK Professional wireless interconnect system.  When a number of alarms are interconnected, the RC feature of the alarms is ideal as it offers simple, quick and cost-effective Remote Control when used with an Alarm Control Switch.

Aico Ltd. is the UK leader in domestic fire detection with its Ei Professional range of high mains powered residential Multi-Sensor, smoke and heat alarms and accessories.  All Aico alarms are designed and built in Europe - specifically to meet UK standards and regulations.  For more information visit www.aico.co.uk.

Developments in Membership.

MIDA are delighted to announce the following addition to Group Membership.

TEP Electrical Distributors Ltd

Membership Commenced - 1st July 2009.

Headed by Mike Prior, this is a single branch business, formerly a member of the Fegime Buying Group, based in Darlington.

We welcome the whole team at TEP to the MIDA family, and in meeting with them all, Steve Newburn feels they will blend and compliment the style of membership that has enabled MIDA to evolve in to the highly respectable group that it is.

There have been some tremendous gains for MIDA for July'09, not just with the numbers, but because of the QUALITY that comes with all three - TEP Electrical, CP Electrical, and J3 Electrical.

These latest additions now bring the group's statistics to 73 x Companies / 102 x Branches and an operating turnover of £175million.

New White Switch Option on 45A Accessories

45A accessories with white rocker switches are the latest addition to the CLICK Scolmore range of MODE slim line plate accessories. MODE accessories provide a modern solution to virtually any domestic wiring requirement. The 45A range includes a comprehensive selection of wall and ceiling switches plus cooker control units that all work aesthetically well with the other products in the CLICK Mode range.

The white rockers are an option on the single and double gang switches and cooker outlet and provide more flexibility when incorporating with other Mode items. CLICK MODE accessories provide the installer with unparalleled flexibility, offering a vast selection of products ranging from light switches and socket outlets to more specialised products for use with telephone and satellite connection.  The modular design of MODE allows designers and installers unprecedented flexibility in creating dedicated wiring solutions to deal with specific wiring requirements.    

Developments in Membership.

MIDA are delighted to announce the following additions to Group Membership.

CP Electrical Wholesale & Lighting Centres Ltd

Membership Commenced - 1st July 2009.

Headed by Graham Clint, this is a multi-branch business, formerly a member of the Fegime Buying Group, where the principle address is based in Gateshead. They have an additional electrical branch at Morpeth plus 2 x lighting centres in Gateshead and Edinburgh.

J3 Electrical Wholesalers Ltd.

Membership Commenced - 1st July 2009.

Headed by Barry Wylde, this is a single branch business based in Prenton, Wirral, Merseyside. We believe their are plans for further expansion with this business in the near future, details of which will be published in due course.

These new members provide additional opportunities for MIDA and it's already diverse distribution network of professional and successful independent electrical distributors. We truly believe they will take up an active role within MIDA and along with their new team colleagues, help further establish MIDA as one of the leading buying groups within the electrical industry.

These latest developments take the groups statistics to 72 x Companies / 101 x Branches and an operating turnover of £173million.

New Pullcord Switches – Simply Brilliant

New to CLICK Scolmore’s popular CLICK® MODE and CLICK® POLAR series is a new range of brilliant white Pullcord Switches designed for use in conjunction with optional decorative covers. Simple to use and yet extremely effective, the cover simply slides over the moulded housing, with the decorative bell pull supplied replacing the existing white version. Available in a choice of polished brass, polished chrome and satin chrome finishes, the covers are guaranteed to complement existing fixtures and fittings.

Another useful addition to the CLICK® MODE, CLICK® POLAR and CLICK® accessory ranges is the 13W/18W low energy 6” pendant with a universal electronic ballast. Available in brilliant Polar White, the pendant can be used with either a 13W or 18W G24q (4 pin) lamp.

All CLICK Scolmore products incorporate ease of installation features and have been manufactured to all relevant UK and European standards. CLICK® Scolmore products are available through a network of approved stockists throughout the UK and Ireland.

Volcano LED Creates The Right Impression 

The Volcano IP54 from Ansell Lighting has brought to market a contemporary designed and energy efficient bi-directional amenity luminaire. It not only creates an attractive patterned wall wash effect, but also takes into account the need for energy efficiency and low cost of maintenance to minimise its impact on the environment.  This architectural lighting effect has been achieved by incorporating three LEDs with two of these are featured at one end of the fitting and with the third at the opposite side to produce opposing beams of light.

Each of these non serviceable Luxeon LEDs have a life of up to 30,000 hours with a total power consumption of 3W. Two options are available, with either Blue LED’s or White LED’s, thereby offering different solutions to a number of differing applications. To make installation easier for the contractor it comes complete with an integral LED Driver which allows a mains feed to go straight into the fitting which negates the requirement for a remote driver to be located in close proximity to the fitting, thereby minimising installation costs.

The Volcano’s IP54 rating makes it suitable for both internal and external installations, whilst its die-cast aluminium body and base are finished in silver grey to suit the latest contemporary design. To address the particular needs of the application this fitting can be installed in any position.

Industry Award Winner Chooses Ansell's Galaxy Luminaires

Burge & Gunson, winners of the Master Retailer Award for Bathrooms in this year’s kbbreview Industry Awards, has recently installed Ansell Lighting’s Galaxy PL decorative downlights within their extensive showroom in Colliers Wood, London.

Ray Gunson the MD of Burge & Gunson said, “Our original lighting scheme, which consisted of low voltage and GU10- 50Watt downlights, was costing us a huge amount of money to run every year and so we wanted to reduce our overheads whilst also improving the quality of the lighting within the showroom area.  At the same time we recognised the importance of reducing our carbon emissions in order to be more environmentally responsible.

“As the existing scheme created a dull yellow lighting effect, which made the displays look unattractive, we wanted to make the whole of the sales area much brighter and more inviting for showroom visitors. To overcome these issues we contacted the electrical wholesalers CRS of Clapham, who put us in touch with Andy Cameron of Ansell Lighting.  He recommended using the Galaxy PL low energy recessed downlights.

“These fittings have achieved exactly what we wanted. Not only have they significantly cut our energy costs, but have also produced a very attractive visual lighting effect which makes the whole showroom look crisp and modern so that it is much more welcoming and appealing for customers. This new look really does complement our customer focused approach to doing business and so we are really happy with the results.”

As the Galaxy Downlight range has a modular design, it is able to address different application requirements within the same lighting scheme. To create a distinct character for each of the individual areas of the showroom, Andy Cameron specified a variety of twist-on accessories, namely the frosted drop glass and decorative trims. In order to maintain design continuity throughout the scheme, whilst being compliant with regulation requirements, certain fittings were modified to incorporate integral emergency conversion packs to offer an emergency lighting solution for each area of the showroom.

“The Galaxy is extremely versatile”, said Andy, “as it uses a range of compact fluorescent lamps combined with High Frequency Control Gear to maximise operational efficiencies. For this particular project, the combination of both our Twin 26Watt PLC fitting and our Twin 42Watt PLT fitting were used to provide the requested illumination levels and the desired aesthetic effect. This combination proved extremely successful in increasing lighting levels and also reducing energy operating costs, whilst at the same time producing a much brighter and fresher look.  

“By using a high quality facetted reflector, the Galaxy Downlight has assisted in providing directed light where required, whilst minimising spill light and controlling glare. The various lamp options, which were selected for this project, all fitted within the same size housing, thus providing continuity of effect throughout the application. The choice of PL Lamps provided Burge & Gunson with excellent colour rendition, creating an enhanced view of the quality bathroom suites and accessories within the showroom setting, thereby attracting buyer attention.”

Scolmore’s Flipping Big Book Has it All!

CLICK Scolmore has launched it’s ‘Flipping Big Book’, an A5 catalogue containing everything that the larger version has to offer plus an Interactive CD. As the name suggests, it has electrical accessories on one side and, when you ‘flip’ it over, it has CLICK Scolmore’s lighting products.

The electrical section features the wide range of electrical accessories in the increasingly popular CLICK® range. Covering just about every requirement for domestic electrical installations, including the latest additions to ranges in Deco, Define, Polar and Mode finishes. On the reverse, the CLICK® lighting section has over 100 pages of quality interior and exterior light fittings and guidance on their use.  Encompassing innovative new designs, as well as refinements to a number of established ranges, the catalogue also includes the Fumagalli range of exterior lighting fittings.

The Interactive CD includes all of the information in the printed catalogue as well as tools to help product Interactive. As such, it ensures users get the best from the information provided and helps even relatively inexperienced users to create stylish schemes.

All of the products featured in the catalogue incorporate ease of installation features, while providing the installer with a wide choice to meet every need. Manufactured to all relevant UK and European standards, the CLICK® range is available through a network of approved stockists throughout the UK and Ireland.

A First for Lewes and AICO

Lewes District Council is the first local authority in the country to use Aico's new Ei2110 Multi-Sensor mains powered fire alarm.

The Ei2110 was recommended by Aico as an ideal way to reduce false alarms and a quality alternative to the battery alarms currently installed.  Adrian Woolridge, Housing Contracts Manager at Lewes District Council explains: "There has been a history of tenants not replacing the batteries.  This is a national problem which is well recognised.  We wanted the best options available for our tenants and chose the mains powered route."

A mains powered alarm, the Ei2110 has the added benefit of built-in, tamper- proof rechargeable Lithium cells as back-up.  But the real key to the Ei2110 is its two separate sensing technologies - Optical and Heat.  As such, the unit is capable of monitoring two very different by-products of a fire - smoke and heat

- so its response to all fire types is significantly improved when compared with traditional single sensor type units.  It also makes it less vulnerable to false alarms.

Two Ei2110 Multi-Sensors are being installed by Lewes District Council in each property as part of an overall re-wiring programme to provide homes suitable for the next 30 years or more.

Aico and Lewes District Council have enjoyed a long term working relationship.

"We have never been let down by Aico: there are always ready supplies and we are very happy with the quality of the alarms" says Adrian Woolridge.  "In the rare incidences where there has been a problem, Aico deals with them quickly and efficiently."

A wholly owned subsidiary of Ei Electronics, Aico. is the first name in residential fire protection in the UK.  Aico fire alarms are designed and built in Europe specifically to meet the UK standards and regulations.  For more information please visit www.aico.co.uk.

Developments in Membership.

MIDA are delighted to announce the following additions to Group Membership.

Wired Electrical Ltd

Membership Commenced - 1st May 2009.

Headed by Maureen McKerrall & Jamie Mitchell, this is a single branch business based in Glasgow, Scotland.

Chorley Electrical Traders Ltd.

Membership Commenced - 1st May 2009.

Headed by Gerard Gallagher, this is a multi-branch business where the principle address is based in Bolton, Lancashire. They have additional branches as follows;

Chorley, Lancashire / Preston, Lancashire / Blackburn, Lancashire.

These new members provide additional opportunities for MIDA and it's already diverse distribution network of professional and successful independent electrical distributors. We truly believe they will take up an active role within MIDA and along with their new team colleagues, help further establish MIDA as one of the leading buying groups within the electrical industry.

These latest developments take the groups statistics to 70 x Companies / 96 x Branches and an operating turnover of £170million.

CLICK Completes Media Plate Range

CLICK Scolmore has completed its comprehensive range of media plates with the addition of the new 1 gang plate with single module aperture. Designed to provide a simple stylish mounting plate for telephone, data, TV, FM and speaker outlet modules. 

Forming part of the CLICK New Media range, the 1 gang single aperture plate is available in a stylish range of decorative finishes including polished chrome, brushed stainless steel, pearl nickel and black nickel which are part of the DECO and DEFINE ranges as well as white moulded in the Polar and Mode ranges. This enables seamless incorporation of the plates into the surrounding décor.

CLICK New Media Modules and mounting plates offer a flexible build solution for a host of individual media and data transfer requirements, enabling the installer to create topical media and power cabling solutions.

Quattro Range makes a stylish entrance

The Quattro Range of decorative amenity lights from Ansell Lighting provides four distinctive and stylish designs in the form of the Tardo, Piano, Canto and Andante.

These IP65 die-cast luminaires are very robust and durable which makes them ideal for both commercial and domestic installations.  Due to the high quality of manufacture, these can be utilised for both interior and exterior applications and are suitable for either wall or ceiling mounting.

To maximise their energy efficiency and to provide an alternative to discharge fittings, these luminaires not only utilise compact fluorescent lamps but have also incorporated High Frequency control gear as standard, which features a removable gear tray for ease of installation.

Each of the four luminaire within the range have the option of integral 3 hour maintained emergency pack enabling them to be used in stairways and corridors as part of an emergency lighting installation.

Featuring opal polycarbonate diffusers with tamper-proof stainless steel allen key screws, these decorative amenity fittings are also able to address the specific requirements of public area lighting.

The Spirit of Light

Ansell Lighting introduced the Spirit decorative wall mounted metal halide uplighter to address the market’s requirement for a high quality and attractively designed architectural solution for commercial environments.

Creating a symmetrical indirect light distribution, the Spirit incorporates an adjustable tilt angle which allows the lamp housing to be moved downwards through an inclination angle of 30 degrees. By featuring a high performance optical aluminium reflector Ansell has been able to maximise the light output from the double ended metal halide lamp.

The use of quality low loss integral mounted control gear has increased this fitting’s operational efficiencies whilst the use of tempered glass on the luminaire’s lense has made this fitting suitable and safe for use in public areas.

To achieve product durability the lamp body and wall fixture housing the control gear have been manufactured from technoploymer with a polyurethane paint finish in either white or silver

New Corporate Identity & Visitor Centre for CLICK Scolmore

Scolmore International has chosen the opening of its new Visitor Centre to coincide with the launch of its new corporate identity. The company will now be known as CLICK Scolmore, in recognition of the incredible success of its CLICK® brand. The new Visitor Centre extension will double the size of CLICK Scolmore’s headquarters and enable the company to grow its ‘Click and Collect’ service, which is fast becoming incredibly popular with customers.   

Designed to reflect a real solution for installers of lighting and electrical accessories, the 50,000 ft² extension will also improve the infrastructure and service levels, whilst providing meeting areas surrounded by a showcase of CLICK Scolmore products.

Barrie Gilroy, sales director of CLICK Scolmore, commented “We wanted a space that inspires and provokes a sense of solution building, from simple switches and sockets to our latest Flameguard System. I believe the new centre will offer visitors the opportunity to make the most of our product families and see how they can be used to best effect. We are particularly pleased with the lighting showcase which endorses the use of energy efficient illumination”.

The new ‘Click and Collect’ service will streamline the way in which customers pick up their orders. Gone are the days when a customer would chase an order or turn up to find it wasn’t ready – in future a text message containing  order details and a collection time will be sent from CLICK Scolmore. There are also plans to incorporate this facility into our online ordering system.

“The CLICK® trademark and associated product range has become so strong that it seemed a logical progression to incorporate it in the company name and, with these other improvements taking place, this seemed like an ideal time to the change”, added Barrie.

Luxurious metal finishes for COPA accessory range

The options available with Eaton’s COPA range of clip-on plate accessories is now much larger with the addition of four metal plates in popular finishes – stainless steel, highly polished, satin bronze and polished brass.   The finishes, already popular with Eaton’s AURA flush metal plate and SPECTRA grid switch ranges, will further enhance the appeal of the COPA range, which uses a clip-on cover plate to conceal the fixing screws.

The COPA range, introduced last year, comprises switches, socket-outlets, fused connection units, telephone, TV, radio and satellite outlets, and all the other wiring accessories normally offered by Eaton.  The existing moulded cover plates offer a choice of white, matt black, metallic gold, metallic silver, grey and metallic blue finishes.  Now the mix-and-match option is increased to ten finishes.

More recently, Eaton introduced a new range of modular communications outlets (TV, radio, satellite, telephone, data, phono and ‘quad’ modules) with plates to match existing Eaton accessory ranges, including all ten COPA finishes.  These enable interior designers and installers to satisfy virtually any modern requirement for communications and broadcast media connections, using products that suite with lighting switches, socket-outlets and other accessories in the home or workplace.

Apart from the aesthetic benefits, COPA offers a number of other advantages to interior designers, installers and end users.   These include an efficient and cost-effective solution to the need to satisfy Building Regulations Part M for visibility, by using contrasting colours between the plates and surrounding décor, and for ease of use requirements by offering broad rocker switches and outboard switches on sockets as standard.

For the installer, it is possible to fit the basic accessories, test the installation, and leave it safely without the cover plates while other trades continue to work.  This avoids the risk of the plates being damaged or stolen, the contractor can benefit from improved cashflow because he does not have to buy the plates at the same time as the accessories, and the choice of plate finish can be left to a late stage.

For the housing developer, the ability to offer the new home-owner a choice of finishes without the hassle, time and cost of calling in the electrician to change the accessories, means the up-grade plates can be changed in minutes by anyone.

End users can remove the cover plates safely for decorating, without interfering with the fixed wiring.  After decorating, the plates can be replaced by the same, or different, plates.   This means that the whole look of the interior can be changed without the expense of replacing the accessories themselves.

For distributors, COPA offers the possibility of meeting a wide range of accessory requirements from a modest stock profile.

Taking the strain – New IP68 Liquid Tight Cable Glands

Flexicon has launched an IP68 liquid tight range of cable glands.  They provide a fast and easy to assemble method of strain relief for cable diameters ranging from 5mm to 25mm across multiple applications.

Available in four colours; red, white and grey are supplied with locknuts and black without.  All have a nitrile rubber seal and can be used between a temperature range of -20^oC to 90^oC.

The new range is produced and tested in accordance with EN 50262:1999 and is ROHS compliant.

The company has also added nickel-plated brass, metric and PG threaded, cable gland combinations to both its FPA and FPAX nylon fitting ranges in straights, 90^o and 45^o elbows.  Again these are ideal when strain relief is needed within a conduit system.

Smoke Alarms save more than lives

Smoke alarms aren't just there to help save lives and prevent injury - they can also significantly reduce the damage to a property, according to smoke alarm specialist Aico Ltd.

Citing the government's new Fire Statistics 2006 report and the 2004/5 Survey of English Housing which state that the Fire Brigade only attends one in every five house fires, Aico claims that smoke alarms can play an important role in the early tackling of fires before they really take hold.

"In four out of five house fires, the occupiers are able to tackle and extinguish the fire before it takes proper hold and the Fire Brigade are needed," says Neil Perdell, National Technical Manager of Aico.  "Obviously some of the time, this is due to someone actually being present when the fire breaks out, spotting it and taking fast effective action.  However, in a significant number of cases it will be a well placed smoke or heat alarm which has alerted them and enabled them to extinguish the fire before significant damage occurs."

Aico says this has particular relevance to landlords because of the significantly reduced amount of damage done to the property and the amount of repairs needed.  If more alarms are installed in a property, the likelihood of any fire being detected sooner is greatly increased.  In particular, Aico suggests thought should be given to installing an extra smoke alarm in the living room and a heat alarm in the kitchen, as both are prime areas where fires start.  All alarms should be interconnected.  For the very best in early detection, Aico suggests a multi-sensor be considered.  By combining both a smoke and heat alarm in a single unit, multi-sensors can detect a far wider range of fire types.

"Of course, protecting property should never be the first reason for any smoke alarm system" says Neil Perdell.  "However, installing more alarms not only offers tenants better protection by providing an earlier warning but can have the undeniable benefit of also keeping property damage to a minimum should fire break out."

Aico Ltd. is the exclusive UK distributor of the Ei Professional range of high quality, mains powered residential fire, smoke and heat alarms.  All Aico Ei alarms are designed and built in Europe - specifically to meet UK standards and regulations.  For more information please go to www.aico.co.uk

Cockatoo attack proof conduit from Flexicon for Australian Outback.

Flexicon has supplied telephone company Telstra with Cockatoo proof flexible conduit to protect telephone cables in the Australian outback from attack.

Telstra is the largest provider of local and long distance telephone services, mobile services, dialup, wireless, DSL and cable internet access in Australia. 

The company found that Cockatoos in the South East Australian outback were chewing through the existing conduit between their phone booths and the solar panels that supply power to them. 

This damage to the conduit and the power cables installed in them could lead to a loss of service in areas where a secure and reliable telephone line could be needed in an emergency.  With some of these phones located in extremely remote areas there is also the issue of maintenance time and costs.

In testing, Flexicon exposed 15 different industrial conduits to cockatoos.  At the end of the test two conduits remained undamaged the company’s FPAS and FPAH.

Says Chris Poulton, Flexicon UK’s export manager:  “Contrary to what we might have expected the product specification had little to do with strength or robustness.  Both FPAS and FPAH conduit are slippery so the birds can’t get enough grip on them to cause damage.”

Flexicon also had to consider Australia’s climate.   Both FPAS and FPAH are flame retardant nylon conduits that withstand temperatures of up to 120^oC – providing protection against the Australian heat.  In addition, because they are low fire hazard products, they reduce the risk of bush fires starting from electrical faults.

Other properties include abrasion resistance, high impact strength and UV resistance.

Says Poulton:  “We have thousands of products in our conduit range.  Coming up with the right solution can involve a lot of testing, intensive research and specialist knowledge.  Sometimes we have to develop specific tests for unique circumstances and this is a good example of that.”

“Export is playing a significant role on our ongoing success.  We are always looking for opportunities to expand our product lines by providing solutions to issues experienced in different global environments.  This often benefits the UK market in that it extends our experience and our product range.”

Flexicon is the UK’s fastest growing conduit manufacturer.  It can offer fast turnaround and delivery on stock items, special bespoke assemblies and cut lengths.  The company can also develop solutions to meet specific project requirements.  For further information telephone 01675 466900, email sales @flexicon.uk.com or visit www.flexicon,uk.com.

MEM Celebrates its Centenary

The MEM brand is 100 years old!   The Midland Electric Manufacturing Company Ltd. began manufacturing switch and fusegear in a workshop behind a house in Conybere Street, Birmingham in 1908.  Today it is part of the Eaton Corporation which has 81,000 employees worldwide.  Switchgear and fusegear are still manufactured at the main UK factory in Reddings Lane, Birmingham, less than 3 miles from Conybere Street where it all began.

Eaton is marking the occasion with celebrations and special gifts for employees at the MEM sites in Birmingham, Holyhead and Middleton.  A programme of special events is planned for employees, distributors and major customers.   A display at Reddings Lane traces the 100-year history and various centenary publications are being produced to coincide with the month in which the company name was registered, September 1908.

MEM products span the whole spectrum of electrical installation equipment, from the main switchboard to the socket-outlet.  They include industrial switchgear, busbar trunking, panelboards and distribution boards, lighting management systems, motor controlgear, domestic switchgear and wiring accessories.  But circuit protection – fuses and circuit-breakers – has remained at the heart of the business since the earliest days.

The company name was registered in 1908 with a capital of just £800 and the ‘MEM’ trade mark was registered three years later.  MEM became a public company in 1926.  It remained independent until 1971 when it was acquired by Delta Metal which went on to acquire names like Nettle Accessories, Bill Switchgear, Home Automation and Holec.  The Electrical Division of Delta was sold to its present owner, Eaton Corporation of Cleveland Ohio in January 2003.  Since then Eaton has invested heavily in modernisation and rationalisation.

MEM was founded by a 28 year-old engineer, Walter L Barber, who saw the potential of the emerging electrical industry.  Within a year the company had introduced a standardised range of ironclad switch and fusegear as an alternative to the expensive custom-built equipment of the day.  This was followed by a radical new design of rewirable fuse that was less prone to pyrotechnic displays than other devices available at the time.

Walter Barber was a visionary who saw the benefits of standardising product design.  In the 1920s, he began looking at the mass-production techniques employed by Henry Ford and others in America and introduced assembly-line production to MEM.  From an early stage he pursued a policy of self-sufficiency, establishing the company’s own foundry, pottery, extrusion presses and facilities to produce springs and turned parts. 

MEM has continued to be at the forefront of developments in circuit protection.  It was one of the first companies to introduce HRC cartridge fuses in the post-war years.  It introduced its first domestic consumer unit in 1955 and its first miniature circuit-breakers in 1965.  Early MCBs were of European origin but in 1988 MEM announced the first all-British range of current-limiting MCBs designed and manufactured in Holyhead.  1996 saw the introduction of the revolutionary ‘pod’ RCBO with its modular construction.   The Company still offers the MCB range; and the modular ‘pod’ RCBO is still a unique device.

Reader enquiries:-  Eaton Information Response Service

PO Box 7276,  Pury Hill Business Park,  Alderton,  Towcester,  Northants  NN12 9AQ

Tel: 0845 3380358       Email: literature-info@eaton.com

Contact for Editors:-  David Williams,  Word Service   

Tel: 020 8949 2733    Fax: 020 8395 5909    Email:  pr@wordservice.net

Company Information

Eaton’s electrical business is a global leader in electrical control, power distribution, uninterruptible power supply and industrial automation products and services. Eaton’s global electrical brands, including Cutler-Hammer®, MGE Office Protection Systems, Powerware®, Holec® and MEM®, provide customer-driven PowerChain^TM Management solutions to serve the power system needs of the industrial, institutional, government, utility, commercial, residential, IT, mission critical and OEM markets worldwide.         

Eaton Corporation is a diversified power management company with 2007 sales of $13.0 billion. Eaton is a global technology leader in electrical systems for power

quality, distribution and control; hydraulics components, systems and services for industrial and mobile equipment; aerospace fuel, hydraulics and pneumatic systems

for commercial and military use; and truck and automotive drivetrain and powertrain systems for performance, fuel economy and safety. Eaton has 81,000 employees

and sells products to customers in more than 150 countries. For more information, visit www.eaton.com.

Haylo – The Circular Range from Manrose

The new Haylo range of circular kitchen and bathroom fans, from ventilation experts Manrose Manufacturing, has been designed for the residential market. To blend with the interior décor, the 100mm units are available in standard white finish with both bezel and grille, plus an additional chrome bezel and brushed steel interchangeable grille. The 150mm version has a brushed steel finished bezel and brushed steel interchangeable grille supplied as an alternative to the standard white finish.

The Haylo fans have an integral backdraught shutter and provide 93m³ 26 lps for bathrooms and 258m³70 lps for kitchens to comply with Part F of the Building Regulations. Designed for ceiling, panel or wall mounting, Haylo fans are available in standard, pullcord or timer versions and can be used with complimentary sensors from the Manrose range. Engineered for ease of installation, Manrose ventilation products are manufactured using high impact ABS thermoplastics for durability, aesthetics and easy cleaning. 

New Fire Rated Cavity Wall Switch and Socket Boxes

Scolmore International is proud to announce the launch of the latest addition to its FLAMEGUARD System series of products. Using the same tried and tested technology utilised in its best selling range of downlighters, the new FLAMEGUARD dry lining back box offers unprecedented levels of protection and efficacy in restoring the integrity of a fire rated stud wall, after fitting electrical accessory products.

Based on a conventional galvanised steel switch and socket box, the FLAMEGUARD back box offers 2 key benefits not found in the existing products designed for this purpose. Conventional dry lining boxes are manufactured in urea or PVC and the process of adding a fire retardant intumescent material to a moulded plastic box will be of little benefit, as plastic mouldings will start to deform and deteriorate at temperatures around 170⁰C. The intumescent material is designed to activate at around 900⁰C, long after the degradation process of the plastic box.

The steel construction of the FLAMEGUARD backbox will withstand temperatures of around 1,000⁰C before distorting and will remain in-situ whilst continuing to provide an effective fire barrier.

Another innovative benefit to be found in the FLAMEGUARD backbox is its unique ‘Snaplok’ fixing method. The fixing brackets are set in their retracted mode and, once the box is in position in the wall, pressure is applied to the brackets which releases them into position automatically, to hold the box and any fitted accessory securely in position.

The integral fire barrier provided by the FLAMEGUARD backbox means that there is no longer any need for complicated, costly and sometimes ineffectual assemblies of hoods or other ‘bolt-on’ devices to provide long term peace of mind.

Eaton promotes City & Guilds 17^th Edition courses

Eaton is collaborating with Loughborough College to offer electrical contractors a 17^th Edition Wiring Regulations course leading to a full City & Guilds 2382 qualification.  The intensive three-day course covers the entire content of the latest Edition of the Wiring Regulations, and is offered at a special price of £175 including VAT - a saving of nearly 50%.

“We have been involved in a number of seminars on aspects of the 17^th Edition, but we wanted to offer something extra” says Howard Fincham, Eaton’s Sales Engineer for the area.    “We were being asked where contractors could get in-depth training on the 17^th Edition at a reasonable cost.   Several had been quoted from £300 to £800.  So we decided to see what could be done to help.

“Loughborough College has an excellent reputation for the quality of its electrical training courses and Eaton has worked with them for a number of years.   The courses take place in the brand new Technology Building at Loughborough, which offers the very latest training facilities.   As part of our contribution we have supplied dual-RCD consumer units, fuses, RCD socket-outlets and other products that can be used in teaching the 17^th Edition.”

Initial take-up on the offer has been encouraging, one contractor in Mansfield immediately booked places for 20 of his electricians, completely filling one course.

The course covers all parts of the 17^th Edition including protection for safety, selection and erection of equipment, inspection and testing, and special installations or locations.   It offers a complete refresher to the Wiring Regulations, including all amendments to the 16^th Edition.   At the end, candidates take an on-line examination and receive their results there and then.

Candidates would normally be qualified electricians.   The course provides the necessary knowledge to carry out installation work to the 17^th Edition including the new requirements for RCD protection, protection of cables in walls, and the expanded requirements for special installations and locations.  It also provides a solid basis for NVQ Level 3. 

Candidates are required to have their own copy of the 17^th Edition (BS 7671) but are given the NICEIC 17^th Edition Learning Guide and presentation notes for City & Guilds 2382 (worth £25).  The cost of sitting the on-line examination is also included in the course fee.

Eaton is promoting the course through distributor outlets in the East Midlands.   Further details and registration forms can be obtained from Loughborough College by calling 0845 1662950 or emailing studentaccessenquiries@loucoll.ac.uk quoting “Eaton 175”.  The offer applies until the end of 2008.

“Eaton has always been very supportive in supplying products, information and advice to our staff” says Richard Swann, Team Leader at Loughborough.  “Their cooperation on this course is helping us offer quality training supported by quality products geared to the requirements of the 17^th Edition of the Wiring Regulations.”

Scolmore Announce Expansion

As part of its continued expansion Scolmore International, the leading manufacturer and supplier of electrical accessories and lighting products, has acquired an additional 50,000sq ft of warehouse/office space close to its existing facility in Tamworth, Staffs.  

The original complex was purpose built six years ago to house Scolmore’s administrative and sales departments along with a large warehouse facility. This was added to in 2006 when the company purchased the adjacent premises, increasing its HQ to 50,000sq ft. 

This latest acquisition will provide Scolmore with a total of 100,000 sq ft, with the additional area acting as an extension to the already established warehouse. This will enable the company to increase stock of its core product ranges to cope with customer demand and maintain current service levels. New offices will also be included in the scheme to deal with the rise in sales and administration.

Scolmore have enjoyed uninterrupted growth since the company was formed 15 years ago and the increased capacity is an essential part of their planning to sustain the growth pattern over coming years.

Manivent from Manrose for Controlled Ventilation

The new Manivent DC from Manrose Manufacturing is a compact, single extraction unit that is incredibly flexible, offering the option of ‘Close Control’ in both residential and commercial applications. With a DC motor that can be set to ventilate any area up to 444m³, the Manivent DC provides a highly efficient and cost effective form of continuous and controlled ventilation.

The Manivent DC is fitted with four 125mm or 100mm diameter extract spigots which allow quick connection to the ducts and has three mounting options; wall ceiling or loft. The unit has seven pre-set speed settings based on typical house sizes, to provide extract rates of 155m³/hr to 444m³/hr. Within each of the seven settings are five different speeds for various functions such as occupied, unoccupied, two people occupancy, night time setting and boost. Once the house size has been selected the unit can be connected to the system. The Manivent DC can extract from a number of rooms simultaneously, depending on the dwelling and it is fitted with a condensation drain for wet areas.

The main controller features five settings which are occupied, unoccupied, two people present, night time and boost  setting and is connected to the Manivent DC unit by a three-core mains cable. When the desired setting is selected, the unit will provide:

• Occupied = 75% of selected house speed

• Unoccupied =  25% of selected house speed

• Two People present = 50% or 38% (selected via a jumper/dip switch) of selected house speed

• Night time = 40% of the selected house speed

• Boost = 100% of selected house speed

A wireless controller is available for the Manivent DC that is remotely connected to the main controller and can be used to boost the system by depressing the central button. The controller can be set to boost at various intervals between five minutes and 180 minutes

Easy Dimmer Module Mounting from Scolmore

Following feedback from electrical contractors, Scolmore International Limited has come up with the ingenious new Dimmer Module Mounting Kit. Part of Scolmore’s CLICK® Minigrid Range, this unique kit includes a switch plate, module mount frame, an operating knob and an innovative nut runner to facilitate the fixing of the locking nut, which is also supplied, making installation simple and quick.

Simple single screw installation of the modules on the mounting plates allows ease of installation, whilst providing contractors with a tool to devise and install customised switching solutions on site. The operating knobs and switch plates are available in the popular CLICK® finishes of white, Polar white,  antique brass, black nickel, brass/satin, stainless steel/brushed, chrome/satin or pearl nickel to match the interior decor. Alternatively, the operating knobs and wall plates can be ‘mixed and matched’ to provide a more striking effect.

Scolmore’s Dimmer Module Mounting Kit is a double aperture module and suitable for use with all existing Minigrid Blank Plates, decorative or moulded. It fits into the CLICK® Wiring Accessories Series and is available in a wide range of wattages.

Scolmore Launch Fumagalli Catalogue

Following its appointment as sole UK distributor for decorative outdoor lighting specialists Fumagalli, Scolmore International has produced a glossy brochure to highlight the company’s stylish luminaires. Based in Italy, Fumagalli designs and manufactures a wide range of chic and inspirational fittings in traditional designs for commercial and domestic settings.

In addition to good looks, Fumagalli products also offer a tough construction with a lifetime guarantee against corrosion, due to the unique resin formulation used in their manufacture. Made from an inner steel structure which is hot-dipped inside and outside by a zinc bath immersion, the products are then given a polyurethane coating before a tough outer resin is applied made from shockproof coloured polymer.  All materials used are fireproof and also UV treated so colour fading will not be a problem.

Using a modular system, the Fumagalli range provides more than 3600 possible combinations and includes hexagonal or square lanterns, half lanterns, globe diffusers, posts and columns, all of which are detailed with on-site photography and illustrations in the brochure. The pages also contain a wealth of information on photometry, lamp options and accessories, post fixing and ground preparation and many other topics, making it an invaluable tool for the lighting designer.

New Manrose Catalogue

Manrose Manufacturing Limited, has just launched its latest catalogue with a new colour coded, simple to use format that provides the most comprehensive guide to ventilation on the market today. Its 100 pages include descriptions of each item, colour photographs, technical information, performance graphs and packaging data, all in colour coded sections covering domestic, commercial and specialist ventilation, accessories and the new heating range.

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There are many exciting new products in the new catalogue, including the M200 range of centrifugal bathroom fans, the cost effective ManiVent ultra-slim ‘whole house’ ventilation system and the Haylo series of circular kitchen and bathroom units. Other new launches highlighted include the low profile 100mm and 150mm panel axial ‘Flat’ Fans, the powerful In-line Mixflo fans with higher working pressures with relatively low noise and Pro Showerlite, the first in-shower ventilation kit that incorporates seven different pieces of equipment in one kit.

Another first for the catalogue is the new Manrose ManiHeat series of panel heaters with a wide range of outputs from 750W to 2000W, that have been designed for use in smaller rooms such as bedrooms, studies and loft conversions. Other general heating products including fan, convector and quartz heaters are also included.

The new Manrose catalogue provides all the necessary information for specific projects and provides an invaluable tool for the ventilation installer.

Developments in Membership.

MIDA are delighted to announce the following additions to Group Membership.

DB Electrical Wholesale Ltd.

Membership Commenced - 1st January 2008.

Headed by David Barnett, this is a single branch business based in Bournemouth, Dorset.

Valley Electrical Supplies Co. Ltd.

Membership Commenced - 1st March 2008.

Headed by Ian Aitchison & Dave Robinson, this is a single branch business based in Gateshead, Tyne & Wear. We would also like to point out that this business has evolved through a MBO of what was previously a branch of BEMCO. This membership development therefore does NOT include BEMCO but only what was one of their branches which under completely new ownership and the retention of the existing team, will now operate as Valley Electrical.

Gemini Electrical Supplies

Membership Commenced - 1st April 2008.

Headed by Steve Croudace, this is a single branch business based in Teddington, South West London. Steve Croudace is a fellow director of two of our existing members - CES, Uxbridge & Jolec, Watford. This membership development therefore has transpired on a new branch basis controlled by existing members in MIDA. It is regarded as an internal development.

LPD Electrical Wholesalers Ltd.

Membership Commenced - 1st April 2008.

Headed by Vincent Priest, this is a multi-branch business where the principle address is based in Leigh, Lancashire. They have additional branches as follows;

Southport, Merseyside (Gary Rimmer) / Bootle, Merseyside (Mike Rimmer) / Manchester (Stuart Nelson).

These new members provide additional opportunities for MIDA and it's already diverse distribution network of professional and successful independent electrical distributors. We truly believe they will take up an active role within MIDA and along with their new team colleagues, help further establish MIDA as one of the leading buying groups within the electrical industry.

There are further plans for continual expansion and details of these will follow in the near future. In the meantime though, MIDA welcomes it's latest team principles!

Manrose Increase Modular Ducting Range

Ventilation experts Manrose Manufacturing Limited have increased its popular low profile, modular ducting systems range.  Totally unobtrusive, this system has significant advantages over conventional round systems and can be easily concealed when installed along the top of wall units, or easily hidden in ceiling voids and cavity walls.  Designed to meet all current building regulations, this is one of the most comprehensive ranges of modular flat channel ducting provides on the market.

The 100 System has compact dimensions of only 110mm x 54mm and is suitable for applications requiring low extraction rates. Perfect for the ventilation of bathrooms and a toilet, its 5300mm² cross section provides efficient ducting for short, straight runs. The 125 System, measuring only 204mm x 60mm is ideally suited for the ducting of kitchen cooker hoods with 100mm, 125mm or 150mm round exhaust spigots. The flat channel cross section of 1200mm² makes it highly efficient and able to achieve high extract rates.   Other sizes in the range include 150 x 70mm, 220 x 90mm  and for recessed applications the new 225 x 25 mm and 300 x 25mm.

Fittings include bends, flat channel, conversion pieces, air return boxes plus round and rectangular configuration wall outlets for most standard installations.

All Manrose system parts and channels are manufactured from tough, flame retardant materials for safety and reliability.

The Wired Wire Free Solution

The new INF-RX8 interface module from ESP gives installers of alarm systems the flexibility of wireless detection devices whilst retaining the familiarity of their preferred hard wire alarm panel.

The powerful INF-RX8 module enables up to eight wireless detectors to be added to a hard wire system via a single cable connection to the control panel. As such, it is ideal for extending an existing system without extra cabling, or installing a new wireless system while retaining the benefits of a favoured control panel.

The INF-RX8 provides ‘plug and play’ connection to ESP’s comprehensive range of wire free security and environmental detectors. In addition to intruder detectors including PIRs, magnetic contacts, glass break, shock and panic attack buttons,   ESP now offers detection of carbon monoxide, smoke, gas, flood and low temperatures. As well as simple detector registration the INF-RX8 provides a walk test facility and low battery alert for all connected wire free devices .

Manrose  at KBB

Manrose Manufacturing, the UK’s largest manufacturer of domestic fans, will be exhibiting products from its comprehensive range of ducting systems at KBB 2008, including high performance Flatduct 225/300mm x 25mm ducting with moulded sockets. Flatduct is ideal for use where space is restricted as its low profile allows concealed installation in confined spaces such as ceiling voids and cavity walls.  Flatduct 225 is recommended for relatively short runs with low volume extraction, whilst the larger Flatduct 300 has been designed for more demanding applications and longer runs. Flatduct is also suitable for underfloor installation where void space can be restricted to 38mm.

The Centralised Ducting System from Manrose, provides a highly efficient and cost effective form of continuous and controlled domestic ventilation. A relatively new concept, the Centralised Ducting System is a stylish and compact single extraction unit that is incredibly flexible, allowing use in most house layouts and in up to five rooms.

The Centralised Ducting System negates the need for fans in different rooms and reduces the number of external outlets required to one. The lightweight system, manufactured from strong reinforced plastic, is installed in the loft or ceiling void. It can be fitted to a stable support, a joist or pillar, or suspended with the use of special hooks, which will also reduce noise vibration. Manrose will also be exhibiting its compact 150mm (5”) x 70mm compact ducting system.

Manrose has a solution to suit all domestic and commercial ventilation situations, including low profile ducting in 110mm x 54mm, 150mm x 70mm, 204mm x 60mm and flat ducting in 225mm x 25mm and 300mm x 25mm.

Manrose will also be highlighting its comprehensive range of electrical accessories that have been designed to upgrade the switching mechanism of any standard fan with an electrical load between 20 watts and 200 watts. Manrose also offer a wide range of variable, 2 speed controllers with reversible options. The variable non-reversing fan speed control is suitable for controlling the speed of fans with an electrical load of 20watts - 200 watts. In addition to this, a two speed non reversing controller and a reversible speed controller are also available. Accessories such as ducting, external grilles and flat channel ducting will also be on show.

New Guide to Pre-Fabricated Interconnection now available from Flex Connectors

A new guide to the flex 7 pre-fabricated interconnection system is now available from Flex Connectors to help electrical contractors, consultants and wholesalers take advantage of the many benefits which pre-fabricated lighting solutions can offer.

The illustrated catalogue provides full details on the flexible plug-together system, which offers considerable potential for reducing installation time by connecting elements using factory pre-fabricated and tested leads.  This minimises the possibility of faulty connections or incorrect on-site interpretation of design.

The flex 7 interconnection portfolio consists of hub units; single sockets; first-in-line units; flexible interconnection and multi-circuit units; modular chains; and the new flex 7 Extender range of single and twin extender leads and panel mount plugs and sockets.  As well as information on the range, the interconnection guide also provides product applications, technical details, installation instructions and circuit diagrams.

The guide can be downloaded from the Flex Connectors website at www.flexconnectors.co.uk.  Printed copies are also available by phoning 020 8580 1066 or emailing marketing@flexconnectors.co.uk.

All the interconnection products use the unique flex 7 seven-pin configuration, are 16 amp rated and can connect together to produce an efficient and cost-effective modular system.  This makes them particularly suitable for complex modern buildings, whether newly constructed or refurbished.