Latest electrical product news

Machine Safety Directive: Emergency stop devices must be of the trigger action type

(18/06/2009)

The first European Machinery Directive (89/392/EEC) specified as far back as 1989 that the emergency stop control must latch and must trigger the stopping function before it latches. In 1993 this was amended to make it more precise, stating: ‘Once active operation of the emergency stop device has ceased following a stop command, that command must be sustained by engagement of the emergency stop device until that engagement is specifically overridden; it must not be possible to engage the device ... [more]

MP-NET: The MP-NET modular UPS system has been designed to reduce running costs

(26/05/2009)

Chloride has announced the launch of the MP-NET, a modular and scalable UPS system, designed to support power systems of small data centres, networks, medical applications, banks and other financial institutions. The MP-NET is the ideal solution to grow alongside an organisation’s evolving load requirements. It also incorporates an ECO mode, which allows the UPS unit to minimise energy consumption over the full range, whilst providing a high conversion efficiency of up to 98%. The MP-NET of... [more]

Magelis XBTGT: New Magelis starter package includes free software and programming accessories

(07/05/2009)

HMIs (Human Machine Interfaces) are fast becoming an essential part of plant management and are now commonplace in most large production lines but new compact terminals are making them ideal for smaller applications too. However, some managers, despite being keen to utilise the benefits of this technology, are unaware of how simple it is to incorporate the system into the plant’s automation. HMIs offer a window into an automation system by providing a visual link to an entire process, an in... [more]

Modular Wiring Systems: Tratos completes acquisition of North West Cables

(13/04/2009)

Tratos Ltd., the UK distribution subsidiary of Electrical Cable Manufacturer Tratos Cavi SPA. of Italy, has completed its acquisition of North West Cables Ltd. and its subsidiary Modular Wiring Systems Ltd. The deal grows the group to £20 million with 75 employees in the UK and €150 million with 350 employees worldwide. It has also resulted in all UK manufacturing being transferred to the bespoke Knowsley facility to allow for seamless manufacturing. Further staff have been employed at Know... [more]

Master Switch: Riello UPS expands Static Transfer Switches range to include models up to 400A for 2012 Olympics

(07/04/2009)

Riello UPS has expanded its Master Switch range of Static Transfer Switches (STS) to include models up to 400A. This is partly because it forecasts a surge in UPS and STS installation as UK organisations prepare for the 2012 Olympics. The switches can be used in isolation or with a combination of uninterruptible power supplies and generating systems to provide resilience against mains power interruptions. “Installing Master Switch removes single points of failure” commented Robin Koffle... [more]

Microgeneration Certification Scheme MCS: ELECSA launches Microgeneration Certification Scheme for contractors installing renewable technologies in domestic properties

(31/03/2009)

ELECSA has launched a Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) for contractors installing renewable technologies in domestic properties. ELECSA already runs a Part P registration scheme for electrical contractors, and is now extending their straightforward approach to certification for renewables. The primary aim of the MCS is to provide consumers with confidence and protection, by guaranteeing that microgeneration products and installers who carry the mark meet robust quality standards. T... [more]