Mechanical Technology April 2015

⎪ Special report ⎪

capability

An LV fixed semi-withdrawable MCC manufactured by Shaw Controls in Robertsham.

The distribution board workshop and produc- tion line at Shaw Controls.

A fully withdrawable MCC board, one of the new products manufactured by Shaw Controls. switchgear units have metal divisions separating the compartments. The general busbar configuration comprises one or more rectangular bars, manufactured from electrolytic copper with tin-plated fittings. The LV compartment is located in the upper front part, which houses the measuring instruments, protection relay, terminals, thermostats and contacts. This is com- pletely isolated from the MV via a steel plate, with its own closable door. The Zest WEG Group recently also an- nounced a significant expansion of Shaw Controls’ manufacturing capabilities. This is to cater for the significantly extended product range as well as the increased demand for Shaw Controls’ E-housing solutions. This expansion will include the design and establishment of a 2 000 m 2

Shaw Controls’ modern manufacturing facility features the latest technology. Switchgear panels are manu- factured using bent steel profiles and enclosed on all sides by steel plating.

for its customers’ complete electrical re- quirements, from switchboard panels and control systems to transformers, switch- gear, MCCs, distribution boards, motors and also full installation if need be. “Our product range can be integrated with the rest of the Zest WEG Group companies for turnkey projects,” Knihs says. Another milestone achieved by Shaw Controls is that all of its LV products have been successfully type tested to the IEC 61439-1 and IEC 61641 standards. The maximum test rating is 690 V+5% @ 65 kA. “We are at the forefront of testing and compliance in South Africa with all certification be- ing undertaken independently, which helps position the Zest WEG Group at the top end of the local market,” Knihs concludes. q

standalone E-house and container con- version facility. Shaw Controls’ E-houses represent a cost-effective alternative to traditional containerised solutions manu- factured in standalone marine containers. The expansion of Shaw Controls is in line with the Zest WEG Group’s strategy of extending its manufacturing capability to boost its presence in the local market and in Africa, which is perceived as a major growth area. “Our aim is to posi- tion the Zest WEG Group as a regional hub of WEG and in so doing position Shaw Controls as the number one panel builder and systems integrator in Africa,” says Louis Meiring, CEO of the Zest WEG Group. Shaw Controls will also be able to leverage the expertise of the Zest WEG Group to offer a total solutions package

Mechanical Technology — April 2015

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