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Trade News
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September 2008
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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.
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August 2008
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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 -20oC to 90oC.
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, 90o and 45o elbows. Again these are ideal
when strain relief is needed within a conduit system.
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August 2008

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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
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August 2008

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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 120oC
– 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.
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August 2008

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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 PowerChainTM 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.
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August 2008

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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.
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June 2008

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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.
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May 2008
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Eaton
promotes City & Guilds 17th Edition courses
Eaton is
collaborating with Loughborough College to offer electrical contractors a 17th
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 17th 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 17th 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 17th
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 17th 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 16th
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 17th
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 17th Edition (BS 7671)
but are given the NICEIC 17th 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 17th Edition
of the Wiring Regulations.”
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May 2008

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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.
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May 2008

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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:
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Occupied = 75% of selected house speed
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Unoccupied = 25% of selected house speed
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Two People present = 50% or 38% (selected via a jumper/dip switch) of
selected house speed
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Night time = 40% of the selected house speed
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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
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April 2008

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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.
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April 2008

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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.
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April 2008

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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.
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March 2008
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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!
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March 2008
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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.
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March 2008
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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 .
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January 2008

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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.
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January 2008
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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.
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November 2007

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Mercers
Electrical scoop best small business award.
Northern Ireland
based MIDA Member, Mercers Electrical Distributors have successfully scooped
the best small business award for the Ballymena area for the second year in
succession. This is a tremendous achievement for everyone associated with
Mercers and as MIDA we are extremely proud for them.
Well done to Ian,
Kirsty & The Team at Mercers Electrical Distributors Ltd!
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November 2007
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Sense of Achievement
Flex Connectors have supplied their flex 7
lighting connection equipment for a charity’s new resource centre in
Glasgow. The charity, Sense Scotland, provides innovative services for
children and adults with complex needs arising from deaf, blindness or
sensory impairment, learning or physical disability.
Flex 7 first-in-line interconnection units
and pre-wired plugs have been installed throughout the unique new TouchBase
resource centre, which gained its name following a competition to find a
title which reflected the building’s multiple uses.
These include the provision of a Children
and Family suite, recently launched by Sir Terry Wogan; drop-in resources
for adults; music, visual and performing arts spaces; community offices;
training and meeting rooms; and a community café due to launch next year.
The centre was designed specifically as a
one-stop accessible space, for which the adaptability and versatility of
the flex 7 range was particularly suitable. All products use the
unique flex 7 seven-pin configuration – which gives maximum flexibility for
connection and control – and are 16 amp rated, meaning any component can be
plugged into any other to provide total flexibility of installation.
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November 2007

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With its new CLICK® flow 3 pole, push-in connectors, Scolmore
International Limited aims to simplify the installation process of lighting
and other building services components. This versatile, simple to install
connector for fixed wiring applications allows enormous reductions in
installation time and costs, whilst retrofit can also be implemented quickly
and easily.
The flow connector was conceived as a timely solution to the problems
encountered by electricians when testing lighting circuits. By failing to
disconnect transformers or ballasts from the circuit, the ‘Mega’ test would
‘blow’ the electronics, incurring additional cost and labour. The CLICK®
flow connector now facilitates the simple temporary disconnection of the
electronics from the luminaire whilst the 1000V test is carried out
For
safety, male and female connectors in the CLICK® flow connector
can only be mated in one way; the male section is designed for use with
cable dimensions of 1.5mm² 3 core maximum with cord restraint for flex and
the female with 3 x 2.5mm² twin and earth (with additional loop
terminal). Designed for 250V~ 16A Max. applications, the connectors have
‘backed off’ screw terminals with slotted/cross heads. The CLICK® flow
connector incorporates an all-in-one junction box and large terminals for
easy access.
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November 2007
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The new price list from
Manrose Manufacturing, Britain’s leading manufacturer of domestic fans, will
be available from November 1st. Issue 8 contains a wide range of products
for the domestic and commercial applications including many new lines. In
addition to a product code index to simplify ordering, Issue 8 also contains
information on new products, including fans, ventilation equipment,
transformers and accessories for a whole host of applications in domestic,
commercial and industrial situations.
The 64 page price list
has been designed to be quick and simple to use and, coupled with the
Manrose product catalogue, provides the perfect tool for anyone wishing to
install ventilation equipment. For your copy please contact
sales@manrose.co.uk.
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October 2007

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The
compact and competitively priced EZ-UDVR unit from ESP enables a standard PC
to be used as a fully featured CCTV viewing and recording system, complete
with remote viewing capabilities across a local or wide area network. The PC
retains all of its usual functions, and adding EZ-UDVR is as simple as
installing an additional program.
Each
EZ-UDVR unit can be used with up to four standard CCTV cameras and features
‘plug and play’ USB connection to a PC running the software supplied. The
software allows a full screen view from a single camera or up to four camera
views simultaneously on a ‘quad’ split-screen. Users are able to allocate
the percentage of their hard drive to be made available by the PC for
recording and image storage.
Two
EZ-UDVR units can be run in parallel, allowing up to eight cameras to be
monitored through a single PC. In addition, the licence-free software can be
distributed to other PCs for viewing across the local area network, or via
the internet using each unit’s dynamic IP address for enhanced security.
Recorded information can also be uploaded to other computers on the network
for viewing or archiving.
EZ-UDVR
features a range of configurations to suit each user’s needs, including
scheduled recording and motion detection to trigger record events. Despite
its sophistication, EZ-UDVR can be used with relatively low specification
PCs, often enabling users to extend the usefulness of older computers that
are no longer suitable for general office use.
Typical
uses of the system include viewing many sites from a single location, very
useful for a manager to check on multiple retail outlets, or distributing
the software to a wider audience to allow remote viewing of a single site
from many locations, ideal for on-line product demonstrations.
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October 2007

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Flex framework for growth
Changes have recently taken place in the sales and customer
support teams at Flex Connectors in response to the dramatic increase in
demand for the company’s lighting connection and control ranges over the
last year.
In the south-east, Steve Wade has joined as Specification
Development Engineer for Greater London and Hertfordshire. Graham
Butcher, who previously covered this area, has moved to a more technical
role as Project Support Engineer for South East England and East Anglia.
He now provides consultants, specifiers and contractors across the region
with technical advice and support, including quotations, information and
training.
Meanwhile, the northern region has welcomed two new members
of the Flex Connectors sales team – Stephen Cunliffe, who is now responsible
for sales in North West England and North Wales, and Marc Sharples who will
be looking after sales and customers in North East England. All three
new employees have extensive experience of the electrical and lighting
industries.
Victor Chetcuti, National Sales Manager, explained that “we’ve
experienced a tremendous level of sales growth recently and are confident
that this trend will continue. We needed to expand our current
resources and make sure we had a robust framework in place for the
additional growth we are expecting to see with the introduction of new
product ranges”.
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September 2007

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Infinite®
Prime is the latest generation of high-end, modular, wire-free security and
home automation systems from Electronics Line. Building on the success of
the original Infinite®, Prime retains all of the popular features of its
forerunner while offering even more functionality, a wider range of options
and ‘future proof’ interfacing for the addition of new technologies as they
come on stream.
Prime has
been created as a completely new platform and incorporates a host of
advanced features. These include an integral communication module which
offers a range of alert options, including verbal alarm to any landline or
mobile ‘phone and direct signal to a central monitoring station. Detailed
information about the exact nature of the incident (i.e. fire, flood) can be
conveyed via either of these channels.
Alarm
systems are all about detecting the presence of people, particularly
intruders. Prime, however, also has the ability to use standard motion
detectors to detect absence of movement, making it ideal for added
protection of vulnerable people or lone workers. When no motion is detected
within a pre-set time an alert will be triggered and conveyed to the
appropriate person.
Another
very useful feature of the system is a ‘voice memo’ facility allowing the
user to leave messages for other occupants of the property.
Additions
available as part of the Infinite® Prime family include an EN54 approved
smoke detector, carbon monoxide detector, flood detector and gas-leak
detector plus of course all of the existing infinite accessories
Infinite®
Prime is able to monitor up to 32 wireless zones in combination with eight
wireless keyfobs . A wired two-way LCD keypad can also be utilised with the
system. Additional optional integral modules allow expansion of Prime to
become a fully controllable home automation system and carry out all
communication functions via the GSM network.
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September 2007
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The next
generation of ESP Witness CCTV fully embraces the latest digital technology
by combining a TFT screen with a Digital Video Recorder to provide a
high specification viewing and recording solution in a single stylish space
saving unit.
Witness
is available in three versions (4, 9 and 16 channel) all with triplex
capability allowing full screen recording of every channel, historical
viewing and remote access via a network at the same time.
Easy to
configure and use, ESP Witness incorporates a number of advanced features
such as built-in motion detection with specific area selection which
eliminates the need for additional external motion sensors. Motion sensing
can be used to automatically trigger record sessions, if continuous
recording has not been requested, and send an e-mail alert if the system has
been connected to a live network. Motion triggered events also offer pre-
and post-event recording to gain maximum evidence.
Due to
the compact design of ESP Witness, to assist installation, cameras are wired
via a single connector with the appropriate number of extension tails (4, 9
or 16). The system can accept input from virtually any camera offering a
composite video signal, including of course ESP’s own new range.
All of
the ESP Witness models will have a pre-installed high quality 250gb hard
drive however this can be upgraded to a pair of 500Gb drives in 2 bays. Back
up of recording from these drives can be achieved via USB or across a
network.
The ESP
Witness 4, 9 and 16 does not offer quite the same simple plug and play
offering of it’s predecessors however as an introduction to the new
technologies available it would be the perfect choice for a highly capable
yet compact CCTV installation.
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September 2007

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Scolmore
International Limited has added two new electronic, low voltage transformers
to its comprehensive range. Designed to fit through cut-outs as small as
40mm diameter, the slimline TR160 is pre-wired for ease of installation. The
TR260 has also been engineered to make life easier for the user, with
enlarged terminals to allow easy loop-in, loop-out facility and earth
terminal.
Part of
the popular Click Lighting Range, Scolmore’s lightweight, electronic, low
voltage transformers are available pre-wired or wireable and in various
styles and dimensions to suit most applications. All of the transformers in
the range are built for quality and reliability and offer many features,
including thermal overload protection, short circuit protection, dimming and
soft start. EMC and VDE approved, Scolmores transformers have an
IP20/68 rating and are subject to the Click 2 year warranty (5 years for
‘Smoothline’ transformers).
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September 2007

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AICO RadioLINK Wireless Interconnected Smoke Alarms help
Bournemouth Council win over reluctant tenants.
Bournemouth Borough Council is now using unique RadioLINK
wireless interconnect smoke alarm technology from Aico to further improve
tenant safety. "We've experienced a number of tenants who object to all the
cabling associated with conventional interconnected mains powered smoke
alarms," says Terry Dickerson, Bournemouth's Electrical and Services
Surveyor. "With a conventional hard wired interconnected system, you
have to install a three core cables to interlink the detectors and hide
these in mini trunking. Some tenants have been objecting to the
upheaval and disruption, and also the effect it has on the look of their
property."
In the past, Bournemouth has had a policy of installing Aico
Ei150 Series smoke alarms in its general purpose housing stock, hard wired
interconnecting an optical type alarm downstairs with an ionisation unit
upstairs. However, where tenants objected to the interconnection cabling the
detectors were installed as stand alone.
"Interconnecting smoke alarms is an important safety feature
because it gives tenants vital extra minutes in which to be alerted to a
fire and make their escape," continues Mr Dickerson. "We were unhappy
about the situation where alarms were not interconnected but had to respect
our tenants' views."
However, everything changed a year ago when Bournemouth
Borough Council became aware of the new RadioLINK wireless interconnection
technology from Aico. Using RadioLINK, alarms could be interconnected
by wireless signal rather than cables, which meant far less disruption to
tenants and no unsightly trunking over the walls.
"Tenants who previously objected to hard wired
interconnection are fine about the new RadioLINK technology," Mr Dickerson
reports, and the council is now identifying those tenants who could benefit
from RadioLINK and are installing RadioLINK with top of the range Ei160
Series alarms in their properties.
The Council currently runs an annual smoke alarm test and
maintenance Contract on all its properties, checking their Ei150 series
alarms and installing new units in applications over seven years old as a
precautionary measure. When an engineer identifies a property which requires
RadioLINK, it is reported and an installation commissioned to upgrade tenant
safety.
Installation of the RadioLINK systems is being carried out by
local contractors Prestige Fire Protection, who have reported no problems in
installing the new wireless technology.
Bournemouth Borough Council is also taking advantage of
RadioLINK in other installations where hard wired cabling may prove
problematic.
"Aico's RadioLINK is much faster to install and causes so
much less disruption," Mr Dickerson reports. "We've used Aico's Ei150
series for over six years now and always found their detectors to be
reliable. RadioLINK has helped us to solve all our issues with
interlinking alarms and the aesthetic problems which had put some of our
tenants off of having fully adequate fire protection in their homes.
"Interconnected alarms helps save lives; that's our primary concern of
course. However, the earlier a fire can be detected and action taken, the
less damage there tends to be to our property, so we benefit in the
protection of our housing stock as well."
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August 2007

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Eaton offers more
choice in busbar trunking
Eaton has
extended its Mempower MP medium power busbar range with a new 800A rating.
This means that it is able to offer the 800A rating in either its
air-insulated MP range (previously offered in 125A-630A ratings) or its
500-6300A Mempower XP low impedance range. The full Mempower range is
described in a new 38-page Product Guide.
Mempower MP is a
versatile, cost-effective busbar trunking system used extensively in
residential blocks, hotels, department stores, hospitals, offices and
industrial installations. It is often used for vertical risers and
offers tap-off units every third of a metre. These include switch
disconnectors, fuses, fuse combination switches, moulded-case
circuit-breakers or miniature circuit-breakers.
The new 800A
rating offers a competitively-priced option at this rating. Short time
withstand rating is 25kA for one second. It is offered in
four-bar and five-bar options. The five-bar option provides an
integral earth conductor which avoids the necessity to use the casing as an
earth conductor.
Meanwhile
Mempower XP is a low impedance system for higher power ratings (500-6,300A).
It has a 40kA short time withstand rating. A ‘sandwich’ construction
of conductors and solid insulation results in a compact, high-performance
system with low heat loss. The unique Mempower XP ‘velocity angle’
dispenses with the need for a separate 90° angle joint and the radial
velocity can be specified where an edge angle is required between 0° and
90°.
“The new 800A MP
rating enables us to offer a genuine choice between a competitively-priced
air-insulated system at the top end of the medium-power range and a compact,
high-performance system with a higher fault rating” says Steve Witham,
Eaton’s Product Manager for busbar trunking.
The entire
Mempower busbar trunking range, including the new 800A MP rating, is
detailed in a new Product Guide that is available from Eaton or downloadable
on
www.memonline.com/publications. This includes the
23-63A Lux lighting trunking range, 40-125A low power, 125-800A medium power
and 500-6,300A XP low impedance busbar trunking systems.
Picture shows
front cover of new 38-page Product Guide to Eaton's Mempower busbar trunking
systems
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July 2007

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MIDA Member Midshires
Electrical Celebrate 4-Years!
BIRTHDAY greetings go out to the county's leading independent
electrical wholesaler. Midshires Electrical & Lighting Ltd, based in
Northampton, has just celebrated its fourth anniversary - along with
increased sales figures and a growing customer base.
Managing Director, Ben Fountain believes this development, in
part, has been due to two dynamic Sales Managers - Nick Ch | |