Electricity + Control August 2017

37 / 44

35 Electricity + Control AUGUST 2017
STANDBY + BACK-UP
Specialised batteries for optimal
functioning of power stations
The complexity and importance of power stations across South Africa
is matched only by the reliability and steadfastness required of its in-
terconnected parts. If not run with utmost efficiency, power stations
cannot and will not function at capacity – leaving communities and in-
dustries across the country without power. The result of which, is dev-
astating losses to the economy at large.
As the country’s oldest – but most innovative – battery manufacturer,
First National Battery has been at the heart of power stations for dec-
ades. It takes a depth of technical knowledge, applied to the manufac-
turing of solid and reliable specialised batteries to be able to maintain a
leading role in the functioning of power stations.
“The resulting losses from even a minor fault in the intricate power
station infrastructure can have substantial consequences to the func-
tioning of the system as a whole,” says Ntsumbeni Mavhungu, Director
of Industrial Product Marketing.
“Any kind of power dip within the power station is compensated for
and stabilised by robust First National Battery UPS (Uninterrupted Pow-
er Supply) units. This protects the balance of power within the station.”
First National Battery units perform the same function – protection
of infrastructure for uninterrupted functioning – at South African nuclear
power stations.
“Although our batteries are manufactured to the highest standard
according to a tried-and-tested process, we pride ourselves on flexibility
within these structures. Batteries can be produced specifically for the
industrial need at hand.”
Experts predict SA will see a significant growth in renewable energy
in the next few years, eventually contributing a total of 18, 2 FW by 2030
– around 42% of new energy generated. First National Battery aims
to rise to this challenge.“As alternative and renewable energy solutions
become increasingly viable and power stations increase in number, we
aim to provide the same safety and protection for newly built infrastruc-
ture,” says Mavhungu.
Electricity generation is dependent on a series of uninterrupted func-
tions, implemented through hard-working infrastructure. The interplay
of various parts relies heavily on technology that is unfailing. This is why
First National Battery has been manufacturing units for power stations
– almost exclusively – for decades.
Enquiries:
or visit
.
Doubly easy
New chip-repellent e-tubes
igus has introduced its R2.1 series energy-tubes,
which are available immediately in new sizes and with
even more accessories. In a test in the igus laborato-
ry, it was shown that the tubes of the R2.1 series are
among the best sealed energy-tubes for use in moving
applications – In permanent movement with continu-
ous exposure to metal chips weighing 2 kilograms in to-
tal, only 0,5 grams penetrated into the tubes after 100
000 cycles. In spite of being sealed, the tubes of the
R2.1 series can be opened very easily, which makes
assembly work even easier.
Doubly easy – This is the slogan for the R2.1 series
energy-tubes from the motion plastics specialist igus.
Easy because the tubes, which keep chips out, only
consist of two parts: a link and a crossbar that func-
tions as a form-fit lid. Easy because these lids can be
opened very easily from both sides – now, this can be
done along either the inner or outer radius.
“The chip-proof e-tubes from igus are primarily of
interest in the area of machine tool making as a relia-
ble energy supply in an environment where chips are
often present “, explains Lukas Czaja, head of Industry
Management Machine Tools at igus. “This industry is
faced with the enormous challenge of mastering the
increasing pressure of prices combined with rapidly
growing technical requirements. The R2.1 series pro-
vides outstanding chip protection, can be assembled
efficiently and stands out due to its very good price/
performance ratio”.
Enquiries: Ian Hewitt. Email
round up