TECHNOLOGY THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN INSTITUTE OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS | MARCH 2017
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TECHNOLOGY
THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN INSTITUTE OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS | MARCH 2017
wattnow | march 2017 | 1
A REPUTABLE ENGINEERING POWERHOUSE
OF AFRICAN HERITAGE
• Motor Control Centres
• Containerised Control Centres
• Power Distribution Boards
• Sub-Distribution Boards
• PLC/Automation Panels
• Electronic Drive Panels
• Control Desks
• General Control Panels
• E.P.C.
• Project Consulting
Contact Megan Schoeman
011 979 4100
info@lvsb.co.za
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2 | wattnow | march 2017
22 TECHNOLOGY
THE WAY OF THE FUTURE
FEATURES 28 WIND POWER IN SOUTH AFRICA
COMPARING WIND GENERATION TO POWER GENERATION
36 THE NUCLEAR PERSPECTIVE
TAKING A LOOK AT GENERATION IV TECHNOLOGIES
22
QUANTUM COMPUTERS
46
COMMENTS ON 2016 IRP DRAFT
56 36
46
wattsup 8
WATT?
62
LOOKING BACK... MARCH
64 64
saiee @saiee wattnow | march 2017 | 3
From the Editor's Desk | minx avrabos
Managing Editor
Minx Avrabos | minx@saiee.org.za
TECHNICAL EditorS
Derek Woodburn
Jane-Anne Buisson-Street
Now that the Festive Season is a
Contributors distant memory and we seem to be
M Cary
back in the swing of things, it’s my
D Basson
J Buisson-Street pleasure to bring to you this issue of
wattnow, featuring Technology.
EVENTS
Gerda Geyer | geyerg@saiee.org.za On page 22 you will find our first feature article, showcasing the mind-
blowing technologies currently being developed by DARPA (The
CPD & course accreditation
Sue Moseley | suem@saiee.org.za Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency) based in the US.
MEMBERSHIP & TECHNOLOGY LEADERSHIP Mike Cary discusses Windpower in South Africa on page 28, comparing
Ansie Smith | smitha@saiee.org.za South African winds with the rest of the world, asking the question,
“How many wind farms does it take to generate the same electrical
ADVERTISING
Avenue Advertising output than Medupi?”
T 011 463 7940 | F 086 518 9936 | E barbara@avenue.co.za
I bring to you a very interesting report, compiled by the Lloyd’s Register
Publisher
in the UK, on the Nuclear Perspective. Read this on page 36.
South African Institute of Electrical Engineers
SAIEE HEAD OFFICE The erstwhile Dudley Basson did it again, and wrote another informative
P.O. Box 751253 | Gardenview | 2047 historical article about Quantum Computers. Read this on page 46.
T 011 487 3003 | F 011 487 3002
E wattnow@saiee.org.za | W www.saiee.org.za
The 2017 SAIEE Smart Grid conference will be taking place on
Office Hours: 8am-4pm
19 - 21 September. Registration is now open and we have an awesome
line up of speakers. Visit our website, www.saiee-smartgrid.co.za to
register and qualify for a very nice early bird discount. Seats are limited,
so book now to avoid disappointment!
The wattnow is slowly but surely moving towards being online. I’ve
SAIEE 2016/2017 Office Bearers had numerous replies giving your preferences, and I thank you. If you
President T.C. Madikane
Deputy President Jacob Machinjike haven’t done so, please send an email to wattnow@saiee.org.za and
Senior Vice President Hendri Geldenhuys include in the subject line YOUR SAIEE MEMBERSHIP NUMBER &
Junior Vice President George Debbo wattnow online/print – your preference. Members, who opt for their
Immediate Past President André Hoffmann
printed copy, will still receive their copy in the post. If I do not receive
Honorary Treasurer Viv Crone
Honorary Vice President Chris Ramble an email from you by 31 March 2017 you will automatically receive the
Chief Executive Officer Stan Bridgens online copy.
ISSN: 1991-0452
South African Institute of Electrical Engineers. All material is strictly copyright and all rights
are reserved. Reproduction without permission is forbidden. The views expressed in this Enjoy the read.
publication are not necessarily those of the SAIEE. E&OE
Visit www.saiee.org.za to answer the questions
4 | wattnow | march 2017 related to these articles to earn your CPD points.
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wattnow | march 2017 | 5
2 01 6 SAIEE P RESIDENT 'S MESSA G E
The SAIEE continues to support the the 7-8 December 2017, in Johannesburg.
initiative of the Bergville Community I encourage our members who are in the
Builders, which is led by our member, control and automation space to diarise
Nhlanhla Maphalala. We thank Zola this and attend accordingly.
Ntshangase, Vice Chairman and Chris
Ramble, Past Chairman of SAIEE KZN Continuing Professional Development
Centre for attending the careers day on (CPD) opportunities is one of the key
11 February 2017, which featured more activities which the SAIEE offers to
than eighteen different organisations. The its members as well as other electrical
improvement in the matric results from engineering practitioners. The Executive
the area is noticeable. Okhahlamba High Committee (EXCO) took a decision to
School achieved 100% pass rate, with 90% host the 2nd smart grid conference on the
of learners receiving a bachelor pass. We 19-21 of September 2017, at the Eskom
congratulate Wandile Sithebe, who passed Academy of Learning, Midrand. We thank
with flying colours, obtaining seven Eskom in advance for their continuing
distinctions. We hope that many of the support and collaboration with SAIEE. I
students will take electrical engineering as encourage our members to diarise these
a career choice. key dates, the details of which will be
shared on our websites and social media
On 7 February 2017, I attended the special in due course.
TC MADIKANE meeting of the KZN Human Research
2016 SAIEE PRESIDENT Development (HRD) Council where I SAIEE continues to work closely with
serve as a Council Member representing the Engineering Council of South Africa
This is my last message the SAIEE. The Council is chaired by (ECSA). Some of our members serve on
the Premier of KZN. Attendees included various ECSA committees and they will
as the President of this KZN HRD Council Members, KZN be part of the professional teams that will
glorious movement for MECs, Principals from Institutes of undertake Accreditations of Universities,
High Learning, Student Representatives, scheduled for the first quarter of the year.
Electrical Practitioners.
Department of Higher Education and In April, there will be President’s Forum
On 30 March 2017, I will Training (DHET), National Students and SAIEE will also be represented. We
hand over the leadership of Financial Aide Scheme (NSFAS), as well will keep our members abreast.
as various other stakeholders. The main
SAIEE to Jacob Machinjike, aim of the meeting was to ensure that Finally, in March I will visit Buffalo
who is the current Eskom there is no unrest at the Institutes of City, East London as my last trip as the
Higher Education in the forthcoming year. President to help revive SAIEE’s Interest
General Manager: Upkeep Students shared their challenges regarding Group in Eastern Cape. We have many
of National Power Grid the funding model. members from Water Sisulu University
(WSU), Eskom, Consulting firms and
Transmission Assets. I
The Institute’s growth strategy is to ensure other industries in that part of the world.
encourage our members, that we work closely with other Voluntary We will advertise the date and venue on
their guests and members Associations which serve Electrical our website and social media once it is
Practitioners. On 17 February 2017, I finalised.
of other constituent attended the AGM of the South African
societies to join us for the Council of Automation and Controls
(SACAC) at the Forum Homini, the
Annual General Meeting Cradle of Humankind, Letamo Game
(AGM) at SA Museum Estate, Mogale City. Members of SACAC
include Universities and Measurement
of Military History,
& Control Companies. SACAC will host
Johannesburg. Control Conference Africa (CCA2017) on
6 | wattnow | march 2017 TC Madikane
Pr. Eng | FSAIEE | FSAAE
IGNORANCE CAN BE COSTLY!
There is a good deal of confusion and misunderstanding about technical and performance aspects of electrical products
and services, and their regulation. The SAFEhouse Association has produced a series of guides to help specifiers,
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Guides contain helpful information on:
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Download FREE copies of SAFEhouse guides from
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SAFEhouse members have signed a code of conduct: Your assurance of commitment to offer only safe electrical products.
SAFEhouse membership is suppliers’ assurance to customers of responsible behaviour and of customers’ safety as a priority. SAFEhouse members regulate themselves.
SAFEhouse is primarily a communications association that informs customers of safety requirements and occurrences of non-compliance with such requirements.
The SAFEhouse Association is a non-profit, industry organisation
committed to the fight against sub-standard, unsafe electrical products.
For more information contact:
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As at 26/01/2017
Pierre Nothard: Tel: 011 396 8140 | Email: pierren@safehousesa.co.za
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wattnow | march 2017 | 7
CURRENT A FFAIRS
UJ global leader in Intelligent Systems
awarded national funding
Researcher Prof Qing-Guo Wang, from The NRF awards funding for research that
the University of Johannesburg (UJ), was can benefit all South Africans. Prof Wang
awarded an A-rating by the SA National joined the Institute of Intelligent Systems
Research Foundation (NRF) for his (IIS) within the UJ Faculty of Engineering
global leading research in Control and and the Built Environment (FEBE) in 2016,
Automation for Engineering and Financial and working with IIS Director Prof Bheki
applications on 27 February 2017. Twala.
Prof Tshilidzi Marwala, UJ Deputy Prof Wang is planning several research
Vice-Chancellor: Research and projects funded by the NRF, at the UJ IIS.
Internationalisation said: “Prof Wang’s These include industrial projects for power
research is on modelling, optimisation systems, building automation, chemical
and control. As we move into the fourth and electrical systems, new batteries/
industrial revolution where much of the super capacitors, medical engineering and
work that is done by people will be done by flying drones mimicking the flying action
machines, Prof Wang’s work becomes even of birds; as well as theoretical projects on Prof Qing-Guo Wang
more important. His research to date touches system identification and systems control. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
many sectors such as manufacturing,
finance and construction. At UJ’s Faculty of Early in his career, Prof Wang gained has dominated the China market since then,”
Engineering and the Built Environment, his extensive industrial experience in paper says Prof Wang.
projects range across mechanical to electrical mills in China. “During my Master’s and
and electronic engineering.” PhD studies, I worked for three years at a Prof Wang has collaborated with major
paper mill in the People’s Republic of China. engineering control giants such as Siemens
Prof Wang is an internationally renowned There, my supervisor, a classmate and I for dynamic load dispatch; Yokogawa for
Electrical Engineering researcher in developed the first-ever paper machine multivariable decoupling control; Fisher-
the areas of PID control, auto-tuning computer control system in China. The Rosemount/Emerson for PID controller
of control systems, and multivariable paper industry started using it in 1985. auto-tuning; Honeywell for multivariable
decoupling control. He is very well known After that I helped to implement the system control; Aspen Technology for model
for his work in system identification, relay in many mills for another five years until predictive control; DuPont for real time
feedback systems, time delay systems and 1990, at which time I moved to Germany. optimal control; and Supercon Technology
multivariable control. The spin-off company from this technology for robust process identification.
8 | wattnow | march 2017
POWER-GEN & DistribuTECH Africa
mission is to identify top challenges in African power
POWER-GEN & DistribuTECH Africa conference programme that goes beyond were safety procedures and regulations
advisory board members and top executives talk, to help address real challenges in the for high voltage work, and the financing
have launched a series of African roadshows sector. “To complement the Advisory Board of electricity infrastructure expansion.
to consult power sector policymakers and Meeting and the development of the draft In Botswana, we found refurbishment of
industry leaders on the most pressing issues programme for the July 2017 POWER-GEN ageing assets, funding for privatisation and
in African power provision today. & DistribuTECH Africa conference and the development of an IPP programme to
exhibition, a visit to other countries within exploit solar resources to be key areas of
The missions to countries across sub- Africa was regarded as very important. The interest. Zimbabwe too, had concerns about
Saharan Africa are designed to support the objective of the visit was to learn first-hand managing risk and securing finance, and
development of a conference programme from other utilities, policymakers, regulators an interest in asset rehabilitation and CFB
that adds meaningful value to pan-Africa’s and service providers regarding their technology. Like a number of Southern
burgeoning power sector, and which views, opportunities and challenges from African countries, Zimbabwe is keen to
brings together key players from across the an electricity supply industry perspective. explore new market models and this is an
continent to the event. Furthermore the 2017 draft programme was aspect the conference will address.”
shared to gather inputs and to evaluate how
Nigel Blackaby, Director of Conferences at best to adjust the programme to ensure that Among the topics to be covered in
event organisers PennWell International it address the requirements of Africa.” POWER-GEN & DistribuTECH Africa
Power Group, says some of the industry’s 2017’s Africa-focused agenda are finance
finest minds from across the continent have De Beer added: “Without exception all and investment, the digital technology
contributed to the programme for POWER- of the site visits were very positive and all revolution in power plant technology,
GEN & DistribuTECH Africa. “Building indications are that the 2017 POWER- decentralised energy solutions, models for
on our in-depth advisory board meetings, GEN & DistribuTECH Africa conference industry sustainability, asset performance
we recently staged the first of a number of will address key industry challenges and management, opportunities in renewable
missions to the sub-Saharan stakeholders opportunities. It is important to note that technologies, solar energy, bioenergies,
who play an active role in POWER-GEN further visits to other Africa countries will trends in utility management, lessons
& DistribuTECH Africa. It was reassuring take place during 2017.” for Africa from world nuclear power
to note that many of the issues raised by programmes and a panel debate advancing
the utilities and power experts we met had Among the issues African stakeholders visions for Africa’s energy future.
already been identified as essential topics touched on were renewables, the
by the advisory board and were scheduled privatisation of state assets and challenges As the leading Africa-focused power sector
for inclusion in the 2017 conference in around financing for infrastructure conference and exhibition, POWER-
Johannesburg.” expansion. GEN & DistribuTECH Africa also hosts a
70-strong sub-Saharan African delegation,
Dr. Willie de Beer, chairman of the Blackaby reports: “In Namibia, our meetings whose members engage in B2B meetings
POWER-GEN & DistribuTECH Africa uncovered interest in baseload renewable with the event’s delegates and exhibitors,
board, explains that POWER-GEN & capacity and concentrating solar power and exchange knowledge and best practice
DistribuTECH Africa strives to develop a technologies. Other key issues mentioned in Africa.
wattnow | march 2017 | 9
CURRENT A FFAIRS
Mini grid solutions for Africa in the spotlight at
Energy Revolution Africa 2017
An estimated 600 million people in communities and households can benefit such, Frank Rizzo (Partner and Technology
Africa live without access to electricity, from an investment in energy efficiency. sector leader for Africa at KPMG) and Evan
the majority of which are in remote A case study of South Africa’s National Rice (Business Development Manager,
communities; requiring major capital Business Initiative around tax incentives Energy Products at Tesla, South Africa) will
expenditure and time to get connected to for energy efficiency will be presented by: discuss exciting technology developments
the grid. The role of the private sector is • Karel Steyn, Senior Consultant on for the African power industry and
more and more important in reaching the Energy Performance Verification at renewable solutions to profitably reduce
goal of giving people access to basic energy Eskom reliance on diesel. The technology session
services. This is why Energy Revolution • Barry Bredenkamp, General Manager, will conclude with discussions about
Africa 2017 has identified mini grids and Energy Efficiency and Corporate storage solutions to help utilities and
new technologies as integral topics in their Communications at the South African grid operators manage the integration of
programme for the co-located event at National Energy Development Institute renewables and meet their specific demand
African Utility Week at the CTICC from 16 (SANEDI). requirements.
to 18 May.
Other speakers and topics on the “We are very excited about the global and
Energy Revolution Africa 2017 will bring programme for 17 May include: African energy experts, ranging from
insights from private and public sector • Werner van Antwerpen of Growthpoint solution providers and renewable energy
experts involved in mini grid projects Properties and Justin Smith of producers, to financiers and policy makers
across Africa as part of the three-day Woolworths Holdings will present who will be meeting at this event,” said
strategic programme focused on renewable examples from shopping centres, mines, Evan Schiff, event director of African Utility
energy and community scale projects. farms and green buildings of how energy Week and Energy Revolution Africa.
efficiency and sustainability practices are
Andrew Tonto Barfour, project coordinator tailored for various types of companies “It will no doubt be of immense value to new
for Ghana’s Ministry of Power, Benon Bena, • Victoria Cuming, Head of Policy for energy purchasers and large power users,
head of off-grid renewable energy at the Europe, the Middle East and Africa from commercial property developers and
Rural Electrification Agency of Uganda and at Bloomberg New Energy Finance the agricultural sector to mines and metros
Faruk Yusuf Yabo, Deputy Director of the in the UK will be one of the speakers as well as anyone interested in the exciting
Nigerian Federal Ministry of Power, Works discussing the future direction for opportunities in the renewable technology
and Housing are among the speakers who embedded power generation and how it sector.” Schiff said.
will discuss mini and micro grid projects can reduce a country’s dependency on a
that are currently underway and that are single source of energy. Visit www.african-utility-week.com/era for
anticipated for the future. This will include • Alastaire Dick, Operations Lead for more information about Energy Revolution
discussions about the development of Carbon War Room’s Sunshine for Mines Africa or email auw@spintelligent.com to
mini grids through public and private in South Africa will present a case study sign up for the newsletter with industry
partnerships, including communities, and on embedded power generation for the updates.
how government policy is accelerating this mining sector.
development.
New renewable energy markets in Africa
On Wednesday, 17 May, the focus will are already showing greater appeal to
be on how businesses, governments, international and local investors and as
10 | wattnow | march 2017NORDLAND LIGHTING TURNS 50
Nordland Lighting is celebrating its 50th and dedication that have brought us to this
anniversary this year and it is surely a height. We are also grateful to our clients
milestone for any company. and customers who have supported us
to provide them immaculate services
What began as a small company in 1967 has and products. Their demands, challenges
grown to be a leader in the manufacturing and feedbacks have pushed us to go ahead
and supply of hazardous, Industrial and improve vigorously. Our success story
and commercial luminaires. Nordland remains incomplete without the support of
Lighting has countless achievements and our clients and customers. They spread the
accomplishments, especially being the word faster and in a better way than any of
first Lighting company in South Africa to our promotional means could.”
be awarded an ISO 9001 : 2015 Certificate
early in 2017. Nordland Lighting are planning to keep
their business and relationship growing
Johann Lamprecht, Sales Manager for with all their current as well as future
Nordland Lighting says; “Without the clients and customers and will continue to
support of our excellent team our success provide the industry with nothing less than
in the industry would never have been the best.
so big. Every one of you plays a very
important role in the development of our Happy anniversary Nordland Lighting and
company. It is for your enthusiasm, support here is to another 50 years !!!
USB Temperature Data Logger for Cold Chain
Monitoring (Transportation and Storage)
ebro Electronic GmbH, represented locally by Instrotech, has on offer the EBI
300, a data logger for temperature monitoring in transportation or during
storage. After using the logger the user can access the recorded data anywhere
with the EBI 300’s automatic PDF report generation capability and any commonly
available PDF reader software. This logger was designed to minimize training
requirements, user errors and IT costs for loggers that require proprietary software
to read the data. The data integrity is also ensured since no data manipulation is
possible.
The EBI 300 is specifically designed for the transporting or storage of food since a
factory calibration certificate is included. Suitable applications would also be in catering
or process monitoring, where flexible control measurements are crucial. This compact,
high-quality logger can be used for ambient temperature as well as for core temperature
measurement with an external probe. The user can easily change the battery, and the EBI
300 is waterproof (IP65) with a measurement range of -30 °C to +60 °C, an accuracy of ± 0.5 °C, and
a memory of 40,000 measurements.
For more information on the ebro EBI 300, contact Instrotech on 010 595 1831, sales@instrotech.
co.za or visit www.instrotech.co.za
wattnow | march 2017 | 11CURRENT A FFAIRS
Legal concerns in mine roll-out of Proximity
Detection Systems
Moving machinery is the second highest cause changed in the last decade from being very
of fatalities in South African mines after falls prescriptive to now being more reliant on the
of ground, making the implementation of ‘reasonable man’ test. The law does not say
effective proximity detection systems (PDS) exactly what activity must be carried out;
a crucial step, but there are still perceived rather, it says that the mine must mitigate the
grey areas in mine safety regulations. risk.”
According to Anton Lourens, Managing He says there was also confusion on the Anton Lourens
Director of leading PDS supplier Booyco issue of intervention. The Act deals with four Managing Director
Electronics, the Department of Mineral industry categories: underground electric DS supplier, Booyco Electronics.
Resources has laid the groundwork for machines; underground diesel equipment; requirement will be enforced, but not right
the wider application of PDS through the surface diesel machines and mining plant now.”
February 2015 amendment to Chapter 8 of like refineries and smelters.
the Mines Health and Safety Act (MHSA). Lourens says PDS technology is still
It is now required that PDS be installed on “The revised MHSA allows for intervention being developed to fully cater for all
all mobile equipment on mines. “Mines are systems on diesel machines underground and the requirements of the revised law;
required to assess significant risk in terms of on surface, but is currently excluded from the hence the staged implementation of the
moving machinery and people; and based on promulgation so that’s where the confusion various requirements. A global initiative
that assessment an action plan needs to be in comes in,” Lourens says. “Underground by large mining companies – the Earth
place to mitigate that risk,” Lourens says. “But electrical machines must have intervention Moving Equipment Safety Round Table
there is still some uncertainty about exactly systems while underground diesel machines – was facilitating collaboration between
what mines must do, as the legislation has don’t have to; it does appear that the stakeholders to help advance the technology.
Elquip Solutions and Hoffman offer a catalogue of tooling excellence
unmatched for its range and quality
While all of South Africa’s tool importers manufacturing-related products. Based in or ancillary to maximise the productivity of
have catalogues of their products, none of Nuremberg, Germany, Hoffman features their businesses. Therefore, no matter what
these online or print publications contain Europe’s largest tooling logistics centre. field of manufacture you are in, you will find
nearly as wide a range of tools and ancillary “By approaching the world’s best tool the right tool at the right price in the latest
products which are contained in the manufacturers to manufacture specifically Hoffman catalogue,” continues Cronin.
Hoffman Group catalogue, explains Elquip for them, Hoffmann accesses vast experience
Solutions Managing Director Mike Cronin. and expertise for the benefit of its customers,” With this colossal range, the catalogue only
“Experience has taught us that manufacturers explains Cronin. “We are proud to be able to has sufficient space to list 65,000 of the
prefer to source all their tool requirements pass this on to our South African customers,” 500,000 listed tools that Hoffman supplies.
from one highly reputable supplier who is he adds. Every year, the Hoffman Group The catalogue is also able to offer a choice
able to offer ready availability,” says Cronin. issues a catalogue of the tools it is able to offer. between premium, standard and economy
brands of tooling.
One of Elquip Solutions key overseas “As an indication of the sheer extent of their
principals is the Hoffman Group, a major tool range, the most recent catalogue comprised In the prevailing tough economic
international company which supplies some 1,655 pages. In these catalogues, conditions, flexibility in tool choice is a
500 brands of tools, ancillaries and other manufacturers will find every conceivable tool strong advantage. Hoffman’s Garant brand
12 | wattnow | march 2017FactoryTalk Batch
Software Introduces
Modern Approaches for
Batch Applications
Industrial producers with batch
applications can now create more flexible,
reliable and productive operations with
the latest release of FactoryTalk Batch
software from Rockwell Automation. The
modern software enhances scalability and
responsive control of distributed, skid-level
phases with the integrity of plant-level co-
ordination, while delivering an improved, Modern batch software from Rockwell Automation now improves batch responsiveness,
reliable user experience with built-in scalability and productivity, and supports mobile devices
mobility.
Integration with the SequenceManager New mobile support can help create
“Rather than trying to force-fit applications solution from Rockwell Automation intuitive workflows, reduce procedural
into rigid batch control systems, producers enables batch sequencing to occur at steps and increase collaboration. With
can now customise a modern batch system either the controller or server level. This mobile devices, workers no longer need
to their application’s needs,” said Christo allows machine builders to develop and to be bound to control rooms and fixed
Buys, Business Manager for Control deliver fully tested skids that end users terminals. Instead, they can access real-
Systems, Rockwell Automation sub- can integrate into their batch process with time information, interact with processes
Saharan Africa. “These enhancements minimal validation and commissioning and secure approvals from anywhere in a
give batch producers greater flexibility effort. It also minimises the rework plant. A modern web interface also helps
when designing, operating and expanding required when manufacturers with small, reduce the number of clicks required to
batch systems. They also enable producers controller-based batch systems expand to access information.
to use mobile devices for a more intuitive larger, server-based batch systems.
experience and improved workflows.”
markets excellent products of optimum Westfalen in Essen, Germany. A testament African customer base, he recently
quality which are guaranteed to exceed to the scale of this achievement is that attended intensive training at Hoffman’s
expectations and offer the certainty of competitors from 57 countries took part in headquarters in Germany.
an optimal cost/benefit ratio. However, the competition with a total of some 5,200
when pure functionality is a requirement, products and innovations. “Elquip Solutions is much more than simply
Hoffman - through the medium of its “What is absolutely vital for Elquip a supplier of tools,” Cronin elaborates.
catalogue - is able to offer more affordable Solutions is that we not only supply the best
alternatives. products and solutions, but also ensure our “Through the tools and equipment we
clients have the expertise to use our tools have to offer, we are able to add real value
Among the pages of the catalogue are and equipment to maximum effect,” says to our customers’ operations through a
many award-winning tools. For example, Elquip Solutions’ Internal Sales Engineer strategy of innovation, product excellence
Hoffman’s electronic torque wrench Daniel Cox. and unmatched support. We encourage all
manufactured by Garant was the winner South African industrial manufacturers are
of the coveted Red Dot Design Award To this end, the catalogue contains encouraged to contact Elquip Solutions to
this year, an international product design specifications for the optimal use of get a complimentary copy of this extremely
and communication design prize awarded particular tools. In order to bring the valuable tool reference and resource,” he
by the Design Zentrum Nordrhein latest tooling expertise to Elquip’s South concludes.
wattnow | march 2017 | 13CURRENT A FFAIRS
Omron mobile robots ramp up efficiency in
African warehouse, distribution sector
Ideal for conveying goods throughout
warehouses, distribution centres, and
manufacturing facilities, the LD mobile
robot platform has a payload capacity of
up to 130 kg, depending on the model.
Compared to traditional Automated
Guided Vehicles (AGVs), Omron Evert Janse van Vuuren
mobile robots can self-navigate entirely Omron Field Application Engineer
based on the natural features of the
facility. technology can integrate seamlessly with
the older systems that are quite prevalent in
No costly and time-consuming Africa, where technological development
With supply-chain management and infrastructure modifications are necessary, lags mature markets like Europe and the US
logistics increasingly under the spotlight which means no need for floor magnets, by a significant margin.
in Africa due to remote locations and time- tapes or laser beacons, all typically
consuming transportation, warehouses are associated with classic AGV deployment. Equipped with patented Acuity technology,
turning increasingly to industrial mobile Omron mobile robots have a robust self-
robot solutions to improve their efficiency “The simpler the technology is to get up- navigation system, even where there’s
and turnaround times. and-running, the sooner the end user constant movement of people, pallets, carts
can start to reap the benefits. This is of and forklifts, and shelves being emptied
This has resulted in Omron introducing its particular importance in Africa, where skill and restocked.
first industrial mobile robot product line, the levels in terms of automation and robotics
LD platform, on 20 January 2017. “The fact are scarce,” Janse van Vuuren highlights. On-board intelligence allows them to not
that this latest technology is now available only avoid obstacles, but also to choose the
to the broader African market bears Flexible factory layouts are now also best path in order to complete a task. This
testament as to how highly we regard the possible, taking into account space and ‘smart’ movement also makes them safe to
opportunities presented by the continent to size constraints in industrial areas. “This operate alongside people.
accelerate its uptake of innovation,” Omron is now possible as delivery points can be
Field Application Engineer Evert Janse van modified for the mobile robots. Omron A typical fleet can comprise up to 100
Vuuren comments. Omron mobile robots mobile robots also complement traditional vehicles, which can now be managed
provide a new level of efficiency and cost- automation, such as conveyors, and provide centrally by fleet-manager software, who
savings when it comes to moving goods traceable movement of goods,” Janse van can interact with the factory or warehouse
around large facilities. This unique family Vuuren adds. management software such as MES
of mobile robots is developed for rapid and (Manufacturing Execution Systems) or
reliable materials transport on a 24/7 basis. This means that the latest Omron WMS (Warehouse Management Systems).
ENGINEERINGHUMOUR BY | POPPA HOWARD
A Truck Driver driving a high truck got stuck under a low bridge. First Traffic Cop on the scene: “So you got
stuck hey”?!! Truck Driver: “No, I was delivering this Bridge and I ran out of petrol!!”
14 | wattnow | march 2017Port Elizabeth office provides remote working opportunities
Software development company, New Media According to Eagle, integrating the PE team
Labs, recently announced the launch of its into the Cape Town office has not been a
office in Port Elizabeth (PE) in the Eastern challenge. “The team integrated with our Cape
Cape, which opened in January this year. Town team much quicker than what we had
The opening of the office forms part of the hoped for. We now have a team of four members
company’s strategy to attract the best skilled working in our PE office who are constantly in
developers across the country by providing contact with our Cape Town teams to deliver
a remote working solution. quality work for our clients. The developers we
have found are fantastic,” he adds. The primary
This is according to New Media Labs’ intention behind establishing this new office
General Manager, Dave Eagle, who says the was not to expand the company’s footprint
company had already hired a few developers geographically, but rather use the office as a
from PE who had great skills and were way to get to talent based in PE to work for the
culturally a good fit for New Media Labs. company,” Eagle says.
“While some were open to relocate to Cape
Town to work in our head office, we also came Eagle states that the new office is also
across a number of individuals, who would working on further expanding its skills pool.
make great additions to our team, but who “We want to make sure we have the right
were not prepared to relocate. This is when we balance and structures in place in terms of
started thinking about an opportunity to hire experience. We are still looking for individuals
some of these individuals to work remotely with significant experience who can fulfil the
Kweku Qansah, Simone Beets and
and bolster our already strong development role of a technical lead and mentor to some
Jean Joubert.
team.” of our younger developers,” Eagle concludes.
Optical Data Transmission made Efficient and Simple
The Leuze DDLS 500 optical data transmission 200 metres. All relevant information
photoelectric sensor is so much more than an optical is precisely depicted on the control
sensor. This innovative sensing device offers many more panel.
features that make it both efficient and simple to use.
And through continuous monitoring of the receiving The device’s patented single hand
level, the user can be alerted to an impending failure in adjustment process and integrated
good time. mounting plate with alignment
screws enables easy mounting by
Available from leading sensor solutions supplier, just one person. This makes it easy
Countapulse Controls, the Leuze DDLS 500 enables the to install, and the aid of an integrated
transparent, contact- and wear free transmission of data laser alignment and level facilitates
over distances of up to 120 metres in 100 Mbit/s real- rapid alignment, even over longer
time. This is achieved by using an invisible infrared laser paths.
which communicates bi-directionally between devices.
The modular design of the Leuze DDLS 500 allows
The sensor is ideal for all applications where data needs the base model to be easily expanded with additional
to be transmitted without cables, and more importantly available functionality, and this allows it to be configured
without interference. It is favoured for applications specifically for individual application requirements.
where mechanical systems are pushed to their technical
limitations. In addition, the sensor is web server integrated which
facilitates remote diagnostics, and it can be detected
To permit fast visual control, the Leuze DDLS 500 has as a PROFINET participant. The device supports all
an LED display that is clearly visible from a distance of commonly used Ethernet protocols.
wattnow | march 2017 | 15CURRENT A FFAIRS
Time to stop digging trenches manually
With the advent of trenching machines
nearly seventy years ago, Ditch Witch the
inventors, revolutionized the industry and
put paid to manual trenching throughout
most of the world.
Yet in South Africa the chain gang
still prevails with manual labour used
to painstakingly dig our trenches and
foundations, almost as if it were some kind
of job creation strategy. Unfortunately,
the truth is that manual trenching is not a
form of job creation at all; and if anything,
it cripples the base of construction and
infrastructure delivery to the extent that
it prevents workers from obtaining more
meaningful and sustainable employment. important in terms of quality of trenches or “At this moment, there is massive call for
foundation to avoid failures where they are trenches to be dug to lay fibre optics and with
Take a look at the affordable housing too shallow or too thin as is often the case the addition of a Ditch Witch, contractors
market where a backlog of nearly half a building sites. can lay more meters per day with a single
million houses dogs the industry on a machine, with less mess than an entire crew
monthly basis. So, what do well-meaning “In terms of concrete usage alone, the savings of 30 hardworking men can do in a day’s
contractors who are trying to fill the gap in concrete will more than cover the cost of work” says Phillip.
do? They throw more men at it in the the machine when offset against money
hope that 10 men can dig a foundation in savings from accurate estimation and usage He concludes that Ditch Witch has a long
a day and help them start catching up the of concrete. If a chain gang were to dig a and proven track record in Southern Africa
backlog. But, this is futile: a small ride-on foundation just 100mm deeper or wider than where it has been distributed and supported
Ditch Witch RT45 trencher can dig up to the specification then the entire calculation by ELB Equipment for more than 25 years.
25 or even 30 foundations a day. Redeploy would be out and the foundation may need “It is good to know the product has a
the ten labourers per house and with a bit of 20-30% more concrete” says Keith. reliable track record locally and enjoys
training they could be increasing housing some of the best aftermarket care and
outputs 20-fold or more. Infrastructural mind shift support from our in-house team of experts
Phillip Mc Callum, ELB Equipment product at ELB Equipment. But finding out which
manager agrees, adding that in the course solution would best help your next project
Speed and precision of modernising the building site, the Ditch move faster, more accurate, profitable and
Keith Smith, area sales manager of ELB Witch RT-45 has far wider applications smoother it would always be best to speak
Equipment, local distributors of Ditch where it can equally revolutionise the way to a specialist about your requirement first.”
Witch, says speed is just one reason to use work is currently being carried out on
a trencher, but there are many, even more applications such as laying of water, electric, ELB Equipment, Keith Smith, Tel: (011)
compelling, reasons to add a Ditch Witch to fibre optics and gas utilities. These can also 306 0700, Email: keiths@elbquip.co.za,
the construction fleet. “It also digs trenches be done more quickly and accurately with a Web: www.elbequipment.com
and foundations to exact dimensions. This is Ditch Witch.
16 | wattnow | march 2017Standby power systems: Reliability boosted by ground-breaking local
technology
In a bid to significantly improve the concerned. If authorised, a service crew will
reliability and efficiency of standby power be dispatched to any location country-wide.
systems in corporate environments,
Powermode, a leading Johannesburg-based Powermode boasts a nation-wide
power provisioning company, has launched support infrastructure, complemented by
a locally designed and manufactured GSM telephonic response for technical queries
cellular-based monitoring system. and priority on-site response for emergency
call-outs. Services are provided by trained
Dubbed the Powermode Monitoring and skilled technicians.
Portal (PMP), the Internet-linked system
is geared to monitor a company’s standby “With the frequency of power outages and
power environment, reporting on a range the critical nature of South Africa’s power
of critical parameters associated with grid, it is important that standby power
uninterruptible power supply systems plants, particularly in large enterprises, are
(UPSs) solar PV systems and generators. safeguarded from threats that could disable
Jack Ward
them when they are needed most. In such
Managing Director
Powermode MD Jack Ward notes that the instances critical computer systems may be
Powermode
PMP is a ‘first’ for the SA standby power forcibly shut down and cash tills will become
market, being based on the now universally- inoperable,” stresses Ward
Ward highlights the operational reports
accepted principal of the Internet of Things
from a successful, six-month pilot project
(IoT). He says many millions of rand are lost
involving the roll-out of the PMP at a large
annually in South Africa through standby
South African chain of 118 retail stores.
“The IoT is defined as a system in which power systems failing to initialise on
the Internet is linked to the physical world demand or as required. “By electronically
They reveal that 44 stores were subjected
through any number of sensors which have monitoring their status on a 24x7 basis using
to 195 potentially costly power outages
the ability – and the power - to radically Powermode’s ground-breaking technology
during this period. More than 280 trading
change the way people manage their lives this problem will be resolved.”
hours and 250 non-trading hours were
and businesses, generally through resource
affected. He says the results underline
optimisation,” he notes. He says one of the most significant
the importance and value of having deep
advantages of the PMP is no new
insights into an organisation’s power
Focusing on the PMP, Ward says empirical infrastructure has to be built or designed for
infrastructure.
data is continuously streamed in real-time its failure-proofing benefits to be realised.
to Powermode’s 24x7 Operations Centre in Deployment is non-intrusive and does not
Ward adds that the PMP is both cross-
Johannesburg where technicians will react affect the operation of the standby power
platform and vendor agnostic, meaning
to an alarm signalling a disparity in standby device in any way. Users should therefore
it can be retro-fitted to any backup power
power quality from accepted benchmarks be able to see an immediate return on their
system irrespective of brand or type.
by immediately notifying the company investment.
Ericsson and Tigo partner with GSMA to connect rural Tanzania
Ericsson and leading Tanzanian mobile This deployment is the offshoot of a Sharing infrastructure and engaging the
network operator Tigo have partnered to pilot infrastructure-sharing partnership government on reduced taxes in these
launch the first of a series of rural pilot brokered by the GSMA with Tigo, the regions allows operators to reduce the cost
tower sites to provide mobile broadband government of Tanzania, and two other of deploying mobile broadband networks
coverage in parts of the Lindi Mtwara major mobile network operators to connect in places where it was previously not viable
region, a rural province where there was the over 13 million underserved individuals to do so.
previously no connection. living in rural parts of the country.
wattnow | march 2017 | 17CURRENT A FFAIRS
Online banking fraud – consumers have a say and a responsibility
Incidents of online banking fraud continue service. Consumers are advised to find out browser completely after each and every
to rise in South Africa as more consumers what security measures their bank has in online banking session;
become comfortable with transacting on place to protect them when banking online, • Installing tools and security add-ons
the internet. While cyber fraudsters are what their bank’s online banking service provided by the financial institution
known to target companies – or financial commitments are as well as their policy on to make online banking features more
institutions – in order to steal larger unauthorised transactions. secure;
amounts, individuals are frequently • Making sure that the IT security
targeted for quick and easy wins. “Consumers have the right to ask what software on computers and devices used
mechanisms their bank has in place to for internet banking are up to date;
“Certainly, as we have seen in the past few protect their personal information as well as • Avoiding the use of free WiFi hotspots
years, banks can become the targets of cyber their money when they transact online. Bear to access the internet for online banking;
hacker syndicates. However, a lot of the in mind that cyber criminals make it their • Not opening attachments in unsolicited
online banking fraud we see is the result of business to stay a step ahead of their targets. mails. This could activate the installation
malware or spyware that has been installed So choose a bank that takes its online security of malware onto your computer.
on a user’s computer or device unbeknown very seriously. People should also take the • Using encrypted sites where possible;
to the individual. Due to poor security time to read their bank’s online banking or check for the little padlock symbol in
measures on consumers’ devices, hackers are electronic access agreement to check that the address bar. Banks’ official online
able to access their banking details and steal they are meeting all the bank’s requirements banking sites are encrypted.
their money. Social engineering however is for when banking online. Some banks may • Never entering personal information
another growing problem. People are tricked require users to install a specific security tool onto a website from an external link
into giving away their personal or banking or add on the computer or device they use to or pop up. First open a new browser
details via phishing emails or over the phone. transact online” he says. window and type the URL directly into
Fraudsters then use these details to gain the address bar to ensure the site is
access to their bank accounts online. On the flip side of this, it is the consumer’s legitimate.
responsibility to always keep their banking • Making sure financial providers can
“Financial institutions are obliged provide information, user IDs, passwords and PIN deliver information about the latest
secure mechanisms for their customers to numbers confidential. security trends and security mechanisms
conduct their banking safely online. But, in place to protect consumers from
there is some onus on consumers to protect “If you give your online banking details being exposed to hackers.
their personal information and interests. to anyone, it comes with the risk of losing
Therefore, it is important for everyone whatever protection your bank offers “It is also important to regularly check your
transacting online to understand their against unauthorised transactions. This bank account for unusual or unexplained
rights and responsibilities,” says Charl could result in you being responsible for any transactions. Report anything suspicious to
Ueckermann, CEO at AVeS Cyber Security. unauthorised transactions on your account, your bank straight away. To keep tabs on the
According to him, most financial and you won’t be refunded for your loss,” money flowing in and out of your account,
institutions offer stringent online security warns Ueckermann. register for sms notifications so that you
on their websites as well as a commitment receive alerts when there is a transaction on
that protects their customers while Consumers can help make their online your account. Credible financial institutions
using their online banking features. banking safer by: will make these and other interventions
These guarantees are created to protect • Keeping PINs, passwords and personal available to their customers in order to
consumers if they suffer a loss from verification questions secret; enhance the level of protection,” concludes
unauthorised transactions made using • Always logging off the banking website Ueckermann.
the financial institution’s online banking properly, and closing the internet
18 | wattnow | march 2017wattnow | march 2017 | 19
DEHN protects
Two words, a big promise. The motto of DEHN has
been both an obligation and an incentive for the past
four generations of the family-owned company. These
words represent an undertaking that the organisation
keeps through its expertise and dedication – for the
benefit of its customers, partners and employees.
DEHN’s top priority is the reliable Looking locally
DEHNgroup at a glance:
protection of persons, buildings, electrical DEHN Africa was established as a local
• Fourth-generation family- and electronic devices, as well as systems, subsidiary of DEHN + SÖHNE in May
against the effects of lightning and surges. 2013, and has grown from strength to
owned company since 1910; strength over the past four years. The
The company has been at the forefront of Johannesburg-based company now boasts
• Approximately developments within the fields of surge a network of DEHNpartners across Africa,
1,700 employees worldwide; protection, lightning protection and safety from South Africa, Madagascar, Botswana,
equipment for decades, offering a broad Namibia and the Democratic Republic
• More than range of systems, products and services. of the Congo, to Zimbabwe, Mauritius,
Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya.
120 employees within R&D/ DEHN’s research and development
activities allow it to develop innovations
Construction Department DEHN Africa’s mandate is to ensure that it
and continuously improve the quality and employs the best talent available within the
and Quality Management; ease of installation of its products. Feedback local market and, as such, the organisation
from standardisation committees, as well now has a local team of 14 highly skilled
• Approximately as cooperation with external research staff members.
institutions and universities, is also
150 apprentices; considered for the new and further Skilling up the industry
• More than development of the company’s products. through DEHNacademy
In response to the information gap identified
4,000 devices and More than 300 national and international within the local market, DEHN Africa
patents, inventions and awards underline established DEHNacademy in late 2015, a
components; and the success of DEHN’s activities and quality well-structured training and educational
of its products and solutions.
• Sales activities in more service, facilitated by experienced
professionals in the field of lightning and
than 70 countries, with 20 In line with its corporate philosophy, surge protection and safety equipment.
DEHN’s products are based on high and
subsidiaries and own offices uniform quality standards. Product types Through DEHNacademy, the company
are adapted to normative framework helps to educate fellow engineers and
worldwide. conditions and the technical prerequisites clients through the sharing of its wealth of
of the relevant field of application. knowledge.
20 | wattnow | march 2017The academy offers weekly training • Designing of a compliant and effective The new and improved DEHN
sessions and quarterly seminars, aimed lightning protection system (LPS) Africa
at upskilling and informing engineers, according to latest interpretations of 2016 saw DEHN Africa relocate to larger,
end-users, consultants, electricians, and SANS 62305:2012 Part 3. more central premises, based in Midrand,
architects across Africa on lighting and • Selecting compliant lightning and Johannesburg. The new office features a
surge protection. surge protection devices through fully-fledged skills centre, accommodating
understanding the full requirements up to 30 people per seminar, integral to the
DEHNacademy in Africa offers CPD of these devices according to SANS organisation’s knowledge transfer pledge.
(Continuing Professional Development) 62305:2012 Part 4.
point seminars, training and workshops for • The certification of an LPS using the
specific markets. installation safety report as shown in
SANS 10313 Edition 3.2. For more information on
Seminars DEHNacademy and to access the
The organisation offers customer specific Training training schedule, please visit
seminars, as well as a SAIEE (South African The DEHNacademy training comprises
www.dehn-africa.com/en-za/
Institute of Electrical Engineers) approved, multiple topics, including the IEC/SANS
62305 standard, DEHN’s Red/Line and
dehnacademy.
two-point CPD accredited seminar titled
“A comprehensive approach to lightning Yellow/Line surge protection, lightning
protection” for engineers and consultants protection, earthing, safety equipment as DEHN AFRICA (Pty) Ltd.
looking to continuously develop their well as DEHNconcept and DEHNsupport Physical address:
profession. Toolbox software training. Unit 2, K101 Business Park
Capital Hill Commercial Estate
Delegates will gain insight into: Workshops Le Roux Road
• The characteristics of lightning, how it is The workshops offered by DEHN Africa
1685 Midrand, Gauteng
formed and types of flashes that exist. are industry and application specific.
• How to assess the risks associated to a These include telecommunication sites, South Africa
structure/building/plant and to apply photovoltaic (PV) systems, wind power, Tel.: +27 11 704 1487
mitigation methods to protect personnel, petrol stations, LED lighting, mining E-mail: info@dehn-africa.com
the structure and its equipment as per industry, hazardous locations as well as Website address:
SANS 62305:2012 Part 2. earthing and bonding. www.dehn-africa.com
www.dehn-africa.com
Our vision is to protect the lives and the investments of the African people.
wattnow | march 2017 | 21You can also read
