Sparks Electrical News August 2016

CONTRACTORS’ CORNER

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COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL DISTRIBUTION BOARDS

can house a maximum of 20 DIN modules and even 40 modules with the additional module. The 10, 14 and 20 module versions mean that an emergency push-button can be installed in a convenient and readily identifiable position. The large ergonomic handle simplifies door manoeuvring, also when wearing work gloves. The door can be fitted with a safety lock, to pre- vent access to the compartment.

group assembly,” explains Smith. The complete system of industrial boards for energy distribution and control is available as an empty or wired version conforming to the IEC 60439 international standard. The modern design of the boards makes them ideal for any environment, while the ergonomic product solu- tions ensure an even easier use. The 20-module versions can house IEC 309 socket-outlets with or without an interlock up to 63A, and without having to add dedicated boards with different sizes. The space inside the boards

ACDC Dynamics, sole distributor of the Italian de- signed Gewiss product ranges in Southern Africa, now introduces the 68 Q-DIN range (Isolators) by Gewiss. The 68 Q-DIN range of distribution boards is ideal for the most complex applications says brand specialist, Nordier Smith. “The 68 Q-DIN range is an energy distribution system that is perfect for commercial and indus- trial applications. The range of boards, with 23 versions and four modular configurations from five to 20 modules, is highly versatile thanks to

the vast variety of items available and the possi- bility of having fixed and mobile installations for industrial power take-off – interlock or otherwise – and domestic power take-off,” says Smith. “The distribution system has been designed to make the work of installers easier: Wiring DIN boards is very easy, thanks to the hinged cover opening, the thermoplastic screws and the lack of earth connection due to the Class 2 classifica- tion. The height of the DIN rail in the boards is adjustable and it has a pre-arrangement for the insertion of terminal blocks and accessories for

Enquiries: +27 10 202 3300

Shielding wind turbines from lightning and surges

T he general public’s consumption of alterna- tive fuels is growing including wind energy, which has been used for centuries and is source of safe and clean energy. Wind farms are fast developing and are created for the purpose of generating large amounts of electric power. However, due to the height, complex design and vast exposed surface of wind turbines, they are extremely vulnerable to lightning strikes. Hence, DEHN Africa recommends that protection against direct lightning strikes and transient overvoltage is critical in order to avoid the tremendous financial damage associated with the majority of lightning strikes to wind turbines and the resulting surges. The main objective when protecting wind tur- bines is to avoid lightning damage, particularly to the rotor blades, bearings and electrical systems, as this is important for the longevity of the tur- bines. Solutions such as coordinated lightning and surge protection for power supply compo- nents, can help to safeguard and ultimately in- crease the life span of the wind turbines. The fol- lowing systems must be protected: • Rotor winding of the generator and supply line to the inverter; • Stator side of the generator; • Voltage supply (230/400 V) for control and switchgear cabinets; • Transformers (400/690 V), inverters, mains filters and measurement equipment; and • The aircraft warning light. To ensure these components function over the entire lifetime of a wind turbine, it is particularly important to choose high-quality components and material, such as those available from DEHN Africa, a company that has more than 25 years of experience in protecting wind turbines, over 100 years in the business of providing lightning and surge protection, and can help to create a complete and comprehensive lightning and surge protection concept.

Enquiries: +27 11 704 1487

SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS

AUGUST 2016