5G
With a projected annual growth rate of 13.28%, the South African IoT market is set to reach a staggering US$11.32 billion by 2028. This rise is largely credited to the commercial, mining, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors, which are already harnessing intelligent water and energy management solutions. Dr Andrew Dickson, Engineering Executive at CBI-electric: low voltage, says that while IoT is a catalyst for the country's development across various sectors, more needs to be done to pr...
USP and SEW’s partnership uniquely qualifies the firms to service the utility industry. USP is an Upgrades, Managed Support, Cloud Services, and Implementations master. At the same time, SEW has become a Digital CX and WX platform guru. SEW matches USP’s energy. Both strongly focus on providing their clients with high-quality and high-value expertise. By combining their efforts, they know they can deliver superior services worth writing home about. SEW is a clear major company in th...
Allient Inc., a global designer and manufacturer of precision and speciality Motion, Controls and Power products and system solutions for targeted industries and applications, has announced the expansion of its Allied Motion SA Series Axial Flux Motors with a new 63.5 mm O.D. size variant. SA Axial Flux Motors are designed for low-profile applications such as camera systems, gimbals, scanners, and imaging equipment. As slotless motors, they have zero cogging torque for smooth, precise motion. T...
By 2026, 573.7 million households worldwide will have smart home devices, 19 million of which will be South African. To help make more South African homes smarter, sooner, CBI-electric: low voltage has recently launched its IoT (internet-of-things) home automation range, called the Astute Range. New Astute Range Established in 1949 in South Africa, CBI-electric: low voltage is a designer, manufacturer and supplier of quality low voltage electrical distribution, protection, and control equipme...
South Africa's water crisis is intensifying as failing infrastructure, droughts, and shrinking reservoir levels strain municipalities. Gauteng is already facing level one restrictions, while eThekwini’s water curtailments will continue until September. With demand set to outstrip supply by 17% in five years, urgent solutions are needed. Dr. Andrew Dickson, Engineering Executive at CBi-electric: low voltage, urges national and local governments to adopt smart...
On The Tools, the UK’s largest online construction community, is proud to announce a new sector partnership with City Electrical Factors (CEF) – the UK’s pioneering electrical wholesaler – in a shared mission to better support and celebrate the UK’s electrical workforce. Awareness of CEF’s offerings With a network of nearly twice as many distribution outlets as their nearest competitor, CEF is known for offering unrivaled customer service, deep product knowl...
News
Delta announces the debut of two Industrial Automation products at SPS Italia, taking place on 13-15 May 2025. Engineered for the Industry 4.0 era, the new ASDA-A3EP servo drive and the new Delta Human Machine Interface DOP-300 Series help accelerate the pace of factory automation while realizing greater efficiency, agility and productivity benefits. They will both be present on Delta’s booth (5, A025) alongside its existing range of VP3000 Series Drives and MSI Motors, and the award-winning Delta D-Bot Series Collaborative Robots. Key SPS Italia show highlights ASDA-A3EP With Advanced Safety The ASDA-A3EP presents an effective balance between power density and industrialization The ASDA-A3EP is a new servo drive from Delta. Developed with feedback from end users, it is a general-purpose ‘pure servo’ drive ideal for any machine builder as it can to be integrated in an Ethercat architecture. Safety is at the heart of the ASDA-A3EP; with its external safety card, users have 12 additional safety functions activated by either digital input or Fsoe. This technological step enables the drive to be used in the most complex motion applications that require advanced safety functions. Additionally, the built in STO Sil 3 addresses the simplest safety requests. For added performance, the ASDA-A3EP offers 400vac. It scales from 100W to 15 kw - making it suitable for most machine builders – and it also includes a built-in Ethernet interface. With high power density and top-down wiring, the ASDA-A3EP presents an effective balance between power density and industrialization, offering customers a highly reliable solution. It provides high levels of safety, performance and reliability within a compact cabinet for added user convenience. Delta Human Machine Interface DOP-300 Series Delta’s Human Machine Interface DOP-300 Series includes 7” and 10” models for different applications. Its dual-core high-speed processor supports MQTT and OPC UA protocols. The built-in Wi-Fi and 4G wireless antennas - combined with an easy-to-install wireless communication module - greatly enhance the wired and wireless networking capabilities, which facilitate ground-to-cloud connection. The DOP-300 Series features enhanced visual quality and a tactile user experience With an ultra-wide viewing angle, 24-bit color display screen supplemented by a full-lamination panel design, the DOP-300 Series features enhanced visual quality and a tactile user experience. The DOP-300 Series also meets today’s smart manufacturing demands with various features - including the Delta Cloud Platform DIACloud - to build a complete and secure IIoT ecosystem with seamless connection. Delta’s web Interface Editor DIAWebDesigner offers exceptional development capabilities for customization. It enables users to set key data, design a user-friendly interface, and monitor the data uploaded by the DOP-300 to obtain the real-time status of equipment and production lines. VP3000 Series Drives and MSI Motors Delta’s VP3000 Series Drives and MSI motors are designed for energy savings and low harmonic distortion in industrial applications. For fluid industries, the VP3000 Series offers high efficiency and stability for water supply, wastewater treatment, HVAC, and utilities. With a wide power range from 0.75 to 630 kW, it can control various motor types, ensuring effective harmonic suppression and reduced energy use. Features include low harmonics with THDi (≦35%), safety functions (STO SIL3), EMC filters, high power density, and predictive maintenance for reliability. MSI Motors Construction and Maintenance Requirements Delta’s VP3000 Series Drives and MSI Motors redefine industrial efficiency Complementing the VP3000 Series, are high-efficiency PM synchronous reluctance MSI Motors engineered for energy savings and motion accuracy. Achieving IE5+ ultra-high efficiency, they deliver superior performance with significantly reduced energy consumption and CO2 emissions. The MSI Motors are also designed for long service life, with robust construction and minimal maintenance requirements. Compact, low noise, and easy to integrate, they suit applications like fans, water systems, and compressors. Delta’s VP3000 Series Drives and MSI Motors redefine industrial efficiency, meeting modern smart manufacturing requirements. Delta D-Bot Series Collaborative Robots Delta’s award-winning and versatile D-Bot Series Collaborative Robots (Cobots), are available in six models (D-Bot 6-30), and offer payload capacities ranging from 6 to 30kg and reach spans up to 1800mm. With six axes, they deliver speeds up to 200 degrees/second, making them ideal for precision tasks such as pick and place, welding, and palletizing. The integration of 24-bit encoders ensures exceptional precision, while compatibility with EtherCAT, Modbus, and CODESYS facilitates seamless integration into existing industrial environments. Designed for safety and ease of use, the D-Bot series features IP66 protection and "Reflex Safety" to ensure a secure workspace. It detects contact at lightning speed and instantly reverses movement to prevent accidents, protecting both personnel and equipment. The integration of high-end sensors and collision detection (one-finger tap) maximizes safety. Key features of D-Bot 6-30 models A modern GUI with 3D visualization and an integrated HMI panel further enhance usability The "Plug & Play" setup and intuitive programming options, including drag-and-drop, Python, ROS 1, and C++, simplify operation for users of all skill levels. A modern Graphical User Interface (GUI) with 3D visualization and an integrated HMI panel further enhance usability. Key features include the range of D-Bot 6-30 models, high accuracy, versatile integration options, robust safety features, and simplified programming. D-Bot Series The D-Bot Series is engineered for rapid deployment, allowing setup in under two hours, making them ideal for dynamic production environments. With an impressive accuracy of ±0.02 mm and a payload range from 6 kg to 30 kg, the D-Bots are versatile and capable of handling a wide array of tasks, from assembling complex components to managing heavy palletizing. Designed and engineered in Europe, and built for the world, these collaborative robots are ready to meet the needs of businesses globally.
barox Kommunikation AG, the manufacturer of professional switches, media converters and IP extenders specifically designed for video applications, has released the new ultra-dynamic KN-LGIPR38-28AD, 24-port, 10Gb Managed Industrial Ethernet PoE+ switch. In addition to employing the usual extensive barox cybersecurity features, the new KN-LGIPR38-28AD includes 90~264VAC and 57VDC power inputs, enabling up to 720W PoE capability, and power redundancy with either two DC, or one DC and one AC power supplies. Demands of HD video surveillance New KN-LGIPR38-28AD also features four SFP/SFP+ 1G/10G fiber uplink ports Core features also include 10Gb and 30W of IEEE 802.3at PoE+ at each of its 24 x 10/100/1000Base-T RJ45 ports. Designed in a 19-inch rack-mount format, new KN-LGIPR38-28AD also features four SFP/SFP+ 1G/10G fiber uplink ports, while OSPFv2/v3 routing protocols brings layer-2/3 functionality and 10Gb performance to industrial applications - a sector that requires high-performance solutions-driven by the ever-increasing demands of HD video surveillance networks. IEEE 1588 V2 and PTP compliance Additionally, a fanless design coupled to an extended working temperature range covering −40 to +75°C makes the new KN-LGIPR38-28AD robust, to handle the most demanding of installation environments, even when installed in a cabinet. Furthermore, IEEE 1588 V2 and PTP (Precision Time Protocol) compliance enables maximum flexibility in system design for installers and end-users, particularly for inclusion into CNI (Critical National Infrastructure), utilities, Smart Cities and substation environments. New 24-port 10Gb switch At the same time, the switch can be configured to send an SNMP message as a real-time alert The KN-LGIPR38-28AD supports Jumbo frames at 100 Mbit/s, while each channel is continually monitored and in the event of a camera failure the new 24-port 10Gb switch will automatically attempt a camera re-boot. At the same time, the switch can be configured to send an SNMP message as a real-time alert. PoE functionality An important facet for high-security applications, ensuring cameras stay operational, the KN-LGIPR38-28AD features a PoE ‘Keep Alive’ function that checks whether the end device is still reachable. If not, PoE is restarted according to its set-up configuration. Preventing the PoE power supply from being overloaded, when the switch is powered up, the individual PoE ports can be set to start-up with a time delay. Other features include a PoE timer and priority PoE control. PoE power supply Non-stop PoE function can be set to supply all ports with ‘always on’ power When a re-boot task needs to be performed, i.e., when changing network cameras or updating firmware, ‘Non-stop PoE’ function can be set to supply all ports with ‘always on’ power. This clever functionality allows all connected cameras to stay powered, meaning no vital camera video footage lost during routine engineering procedures - another important feature for high-security applications. In addition, preventing the PoE power supply from being overloaded, when the switch is powered up, the individual PoE ports can be set to start-up with a time delay. Ethernet and PoE transmission technology Other safety features include active management of PoE, active and graphical long-term monitoring of the PoE power supply, and active camera/device monitoring. “barox’s expertise in the video and data transmission sector has produced a real industry-pioneering design, delivering layer-2/3 functionality with 10Gb capability, while providing customers with cutting-edge Ethernet and PoE transmission technology - all in a 24-port format,” says Rudolf Rohr, barox Co-Founder & Managing Partner. Rudolf Rohr adds, “With these features, the new barox KN-LGIPR38-28AD ensures greater customer security and system-design flexibility – all alongside the usual barox easy set-up and configuration.”
The surge in demand seen by the cables industry for Category 3 Control fire performance cables can be met with the supply chains working together, says pioneering cable supplier AEI Cables. The increase in requirements for these cables with the introduction of tougher legislation has presented challenges for all concerned in the supply and distribution of these products. Fire services in firefighting The systems powered by these cables – including smoke and heat extraction systems – assist fire services in firefighting and a safe evacuation in the case of life safety. Stuart Dover, general manager of AEI Cables, said: “We have seen a rise in the demand for these cables but working together with our distributors we are satisfying our customer needs. Together, we can meet the increase in requirements which ultimately make sense for the safety of people and property." “We offer a comprehensive range of Category 3 Control backed up with our technical support and guidance for these specific uses.” Cables for Category 3 Control fire performance AEI Cables has been highlighting the importance of following the technical guidance for the selection The guidance for Category 3 Control fire performance cables applies to evacuation alarms for the disabled in care homes, emergency voice communications systems, and voice alarm systems in relevant buildings, including tall buildings, office spaces, hospitals, shopping malls, and stadia. AEI Cables has been highlighting the importance of following the technical guidance for the selection and installation of cables for Category 3 Control fire performance cables under the revised British Standard BS8519: 2020 Code of Practice. These cables reduce harmful smoke, toxic gases and flame spread in the event of a real fire. AEI Cables’ Firetec Enhanced cabling AEI Cables’ Firetec Enhanced cabling has been approved and certified by LPCB to BS8519 (Annex B), Category 3 Control in addition to Category 2 Control. The BS Code of Practice under BS8519 contains six categories of cables, three for power cables and three for control cables, each covering survival times of 30, 60, or 120 minutes. All AEI Cables’ products are supplied with approvals from independent bodies, including BASEC and LPCB. It also holds approvals from organizations including Lloyds, the MoD, Network Rail, and LUL and works to international standards around the world.
The global energy landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace. With the increased adoption of renewable energy sources and the drive for a more sustainable future, the demand for efficient energy storage has never been greater. Enter Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), the backbone of modern energy infrastructure, ensuring stability, resilience, and efficiency in power distribution. Stable power distribution In 2024, the US battery storage market saw record-breaking growth, with nearly 9.2 gigawatts (GW) of new capacity installed in late November alone, according to figures from S&P Global. But how is this supercharged leap into more stable power distribution fairing on a fundamental level? Despite an estimated capacity increase in the United States of a staggering 89% in 2024, according to U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), there is still more to be done to ensure this rapid rollout of these mainly Lithium-ion battery systems don’t pose a threat to workers, communities and the energy infrastructure. Importance of battery energy storage systems BESS helps to bridge the gap by storing excess energy when supply is high and distributing it when demand peaks BESS plays a critical role in balancing power supply and demand, especially as more countries transition to renewable energy sources like solar and wind. Typically, renewable energy sources are inherently intermittent meaning they don’t produce electricity consistently throughout the day, due to a variety of uncontrollable environmental factors. BESS helps to bridge the gap by storing excess energy when supply is high and distributing it when demand peaks. While the idea of shoring up the energy infrastructure to greater withstand periods of intense strain is a laudable (and indeed, logical) one, they must ensure that in the haste to erect new BESS sites, they don’t overlook vital safety concerns. Fast-charging infrastructure In addition to grid stabilization, BESS is instrumental in enhancing energy reliability. By storing surplus electricity, BESS ensures that power remains available even during blackouts or grid failures. It’s also an important element of reducing carbon emissions, as with stored renewable energy, reliance on fossil fuel-powered plants decreases, leading to a more sustainable energy mix. Let’s not forget how BESS underpins growing support for the electrification of transportation. As electric vehicles (EVs) gain traction, BESS can facilitate fast-charging infrastructure without overloading the grid. The growing stature of BESS installations Dangerous chain reaction in which rising temperatures spread from one battery cell to another In February 2025 alone, renewable energy producers added 10.5 GWh capacity to the global energy network, according to market intelligence firm Rho Motion’s Battery Energy Stationary Storage Monthly Database. But while BESS sites are a useful way to prevent overloading the world’s power supplies releasing stored energy at peak times when power generators come under greater strain they come with challenges. One of the greatest concerns is thermal runaway, a dangerous chain reaction in which rising temperatures spread from one battery cell to another. Without proper monitoring and early detection of potential failures, thermal runaway incidents can easily snowball into devastating fires. Advanced thermal imaging solutions These fires spread rapidly, passing from unit to unit, causing sizable financial losses, environmental damage, and, of course, safety hazards including releasing toxic substances such as hydrogen fluoride gas. That’s why advanced thermal imaging solutions are becoming essential to keep BESS sites safe and operational. Fixed thermal cameras with advanced analytics are the go-to solution, as they can trigger alarms and suppression systems when temperatures pass a set threshold.
With its worldwide online “Eplan L!VE” event on 14 May, this time around solutions provider Eplan is guest at Eaton in Hengelo. Enquiring minds can gain first-hand experience about how Eaton's facility in the Netherlands has optimized all its processes in engineering and manufacturing for maximum efficiency. In just two-and-a-half hours, online attendees will get a compact overview how new ideas and tried-and-tested solutions for greater productivity look on the ground. News on Eplan’s portfolio and strategies round off the program. Benefits of a data-driven approach Dutch facility saw the benefits of a data-driven approach and recast its engineering method How can processes in engineering and switchgear system manufacturing be designed to be highly efficient? How can manufacturing be further automated? These are questions that Eaton in Hengelo asked itself years ago. The Dutch facility saw the benefits of a data-driven approach and converted its entire engineering methodology, including its processes, to work with Eplan. Eplan L!VE, now in its third round as an online format, will provide fascinating insights into this. Under the motto of “Forward Thinking from Design to Manufacture” will be streaming directly from Eaton’s production facility. New manufacturing approaches Attendees from around the world are invited to this online event to discover new manufacturing approaches that generate greater profitability in engineering and manufacturing. By the way, these approaches are in no way restricted to just larger corporations, but are also tailored for SMEs. Eaton took a “one step at a time” approach and, depending on the task at hand, it can all be implemented at smaller control and switchgear system manufacturers. An in-depth look into engineering and manufacturing Eaton uses EEC to generate schematics, bills of materials, terminal diagrams and cabling lists Well over 1,500 attendees from around the globe will be tuned in online when the Eaton specialists will be showing how the in-house control and switchgear system design and manufacturing has been optimized for a high degree of automation and efficiency. The Eplan solutions used here play a decisive role – ensuring that a standardized foundation of data based on the digital twin is available from first designs all the way through to manufacturing. And if that weren’t enough, Eaton also uses Eplan Engineering Configuration (EEC) to automatically generate schematics, bills of materials, terminal diagrams and cabling lists – based on a new design methodology using functional engineering. Whereas the effort previously involved in updating documents linked to the schematics, including bills of materials, terminal diagrams and wiring lists, was immense, now these are all automatically kept up to date with Eplan. This is possible because everything goes back to a centralized source of data. Integration of manufacturing The company’s deep integration of manufacturing into this process is also bearing fruit – using Eplan Pro Panel, control cabinet layouts are designed in 3d, completely digitally, and the data provided is used for automatic cable routing. The Wire Terminal WT from Rittal Automation Systems can produce up to 1,000 wires per day, all fully automatically. The processing of copper rails can also be simplified with machines from Rittal Automation Systems. All the processes for wiring and manufacturing are designed to be extremely efficient and overall processes benefits from greater consistency based on the data from Eplan. Sneak preview and strategy Also of interest is the direct access to device data in the Data Portal from Eplan Electric P8 in the future These in-depth insights into Eaton’s design and manufacturing processes will be rounded off with a sneak preview of the upcoming Eplan Platform 2026. As just one example, on 14 May attendees with get a first look at how the different views in Eplan Pro Panel accelerate 3D navigation. Also of interest is the direct access to device data in the Data Portal from Eplan Electric P8 in the future. Last but not least, the new single-line technology in Eplan Preplanning is interesting for users who want to logically link symbols and components in the preplanning phase. Online event attendees can also expect a glimpse into the future of engineering: Eplan CEO Sebastian Seitz will be presenting Eplan’s future strategy and some highlights on future topics – including use cases on the topic of artificial intelligence. Background Eaton, as the global intelligent power management company, has been a technology partner in the Eplan Partner Network since 2023 and specializes in the development, production, and sales of power distribution systems, LV and MV switchgear systems, and control devices at its facilities in Hengelo in the Netherlands. Eaton additionally provides a large number of its energy systems and components via directly integrated selectors in the Eplan Data Portal. The manufacturer also uses Eplan solutions for its in-house control system and switchgear system design and construction. Machines from Rittal Automation Systems simplify the company’s manufacturing processes – including the Rittal Wire Terminal WT and machines for processing copper rails.
In the ever-evolving landscape of electrical services, the journey towards condition monitoring represents a significant leap forward. Now, customers face challenges, such as aging workforce and infrastructure, rising cost of energy and operation, and lack of transparency to the condition of key building systems. Dealing with these challenges will require a transformation driven by the need for enhanced reliability, efficiency, and safety in electrical distribution systems, with increased automation filling the gap created by leaner staffing levels. Let's explore how this journey has unfolded and what it means for the future of electrical services. The Traditional Approach The lack of real-time data made it challenging to predict and prevent potential problems Traditionally, electrical services relied heavily on reactive maintenance. This approach meant that issues were addressed only after they had caused disruptions or outages, an approach commonly called “run to failure”. While this method was simple and straightforward, it often led to unexpected downtimes, costly repairs, and safety hazards. The lack of real-time data made it challenging to predict and prevent potential problems. The Shift to Preventive Maintenance As technology advanced, the industry began to shift towards preventive maintenance. This approach involved regular inspections and scheduled maintenance activities to prevent failures before they occurred. While preventive maintenance reduced the frequency of unexpected breakdowns, it relied solely on technician site visits and still lacked the precision needed to optimize performance and extend the lifespan of electrical equipment. The Rise of Condition Monitoring The advent of digital technologies and the Internet of Things (IoT) has paved the way for condition monitoring. This innovative approach leverages real-time data from sensors and advanced analytics to monitor the health and performance of electrical equipment continuously. Here’s how condition monitoring is revolutionizing electrical services: Real-Time Data Collection: Sensors installed on electrical equipment collect data on various parameters, such as temperature, vibration, power quality, and electrical load. This data is transmitted in real-time to a central monitoring system. Advanced Analytics: The collected data is analyzed using sophisticated algorithms to detect anomalies and predict potential failures. This predictive capability allows for timely interventions, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns. Enhanced Reliability: By continuously monitoring the condition of electrical equipment, maintenance can be performed based on actual needs rather than fixed schedules. This approach ensures that equipment is serviced only when necessary, enhancing reliability and reducing maintenance costs. Improved Safety: Condition monitoring helps identify potential safety hazards before they escalate into serious issues. For example, detecting overheating in electrical components can prevent fires and other dangerous situations. Extended Equipment Lifespan: Regular monitoring and timely maintenance help extend the lifespan of electrical equipment. This not only reduces replacement costs but also contributes to sustainability by minimizing waste. The Future of Electrical Services The integration of AI and ML will enable even more accurate predictions and smarter care strategies The journey towards condition monitoring is just the beginning. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more advanced solutions that will further enhance the efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of electrical services. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) will enable even more accurate predictions and smarter maintenance strategies. Milestone in the evolution of electrical services In conclusion, the shift from traditional reactive maintenance to condition monitoring marks a significant milestone in the evolution of electrical services. By embracing these advanced technologies, the industry is poised to achieve unprecedented levels of reliability, safety, and efficiency. As we look to the future, the continued innovation in condition monitoring will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of electrical services.


Expert Commentary
The promise of electric vehicles is closer to reality than ever before. New plans and investments at the federal level designate billions of dollars to move our country toward clean energy, including $2 million to help auto manufacturers retool facilities to increase EV production. Additionally, the Biden Administration has announced a goal to create 100% carbon-free electricity by 2035 and a net-zero carbon economy by 2050. Domestic EV marketplace The domestic EV marketplace has grown from 16,000 to more than 2 million vehicles in the last decade and is poised to expand at lightning speed over the next ten years. S&P Global mobility has predicted that by 2030, electric vehicles (EVs) will make up 40% of the U.S. market share of new vehicles on the road. This dramatic increase in EVs will require a nationwide network of charging stations to meet the demand from the current 140,000 to over 1.1 million. Charging stations It is a necessity that regulators lay the groundwork now for a reliable and secure charging networkThe expansion of charging stations will undoubtedly give zero-emissions drivers more confidence in their ability to refuel more conveniently. Still, it’s critical that confidence in infrastructure security also be prioritized alongside this growth. If not adequately protected and monitored, charging stations could serve as access points for cybercriminals, potentially leading to personal data leaks, attacks on vehicle systems, and even widespread blackouts. As EVs continue to gain momentum as realistic alternatives to CO-2 emitting vehicles, it is a necessity that developers and regulators lay the groundwork now for a reliable and secure charging network for the long term. EV Charging Infrastructure and the electric grid The nation’s electric grid generates and delivers electricity essential to everyday life. It’s made up of power plants and other sources of generated electricity, complete with transmission and distribution lines and infrastructure that delivers essential power. Grid connection An important aspect to remember about EV charging stations is that they connect to their relative electric grid. Simply put, the infrastructure for charging stations is comprised of devices that wait for another device to connect and communicate. However, it lacks a third-party firewall or other devices that can act as protection. Unfortunately, this results in vulnerability and means new doors for cybercriminals to walk through. Cybersecurity risks If the grid became compromised by a large-scale attack, it could lead to destructive and widespread blackouts Even before EV charging stations are factored in, the electric grid faces substantial cybersecurity risks from criminals, terrorists, hackers, and foreign governments every day. If the grid became compromised by a large-scale attack, it could lead to destructive and widespread blackouts that would undoubtedly affect EV charging stations and other essential institutions such as banks, hospitals, and gas stations. With the expansion of EV charging stations, the risks only grow. Now is the time to address threats and strategize before disaster strikes. Risks of connectivity emerge The world we live in has reached a level of being almost entirely connected at all times – security systems, appliances, health monitors, industrial sensors, and now, our vehicles. While the connectivity of vehicles has been incredibly beneficial to consumers and the automotive industry alike, the growth in the internet of things (IoT) has opened countless doorways for cybersecurity threats. Software flaws One young information technology security specialist reported finding flaws within a third-party software that a handful of leading EV manufacturers use. It gave him access to more than 25 EVs in at least 13 countries. The man, who stumbled on the findings in 2022, said he could remotely control some EV functions, including starting vehicles, unlocking windows and doors, disabling security systems, and turning on stereo systems and flashing headlights. The IT specialist said he could also tell if a person was in the vehicle. In a separate and concerning situation, a single compromised password led to a foreign-fronted cyberattack on a U.S.-based pipeline in 2021. It halted the fuel supply process on the east coast and cost the company $4.4 million in ransom money. Cyberattacks Thousands of charging stations are already in danger of being targeted by cybercriminals The point is that even massive and powerful companies can fall victim to cyberattacks. Even though cybersecurity is a critical issue for EV manufacturers, their systems are still vulnerable to hackers. Thousands of charging stations are already in danger of being targeted by cybercriminals, and as the number of stations grows, so too will the risk. The higher the number of entry points, the more opportunities hackers will see. If they can break into and gain access to even the most sophisticated EVs, it could be catastrophic. Ensuring security and reliability through proactivity Because charging stations are connected to the country’s primary grid, the entire infrastructure must be armed with the most aggressive security measures. The risks associated with modernized electric vehicles are not something that traditional automotive safety regulations and security standards properly cover. The complicated and rapid evolution of EVs is putting them at a heightened threat. When charging stations are connected to the electrical grid, it is imperative to ensure strong cybersecurity measures are in place to remain dependable and effective. Embedding cybersecurity technology We often see outside parties utilized to secure tech because of the frequent lack of necessary cyber protection The best way to ensure the electric grid's safety is to build cybersecurity technology directly into the charging stations. We often see outside parties utilized to secure tech because of the frequent lack of necessary cyber protection. Unfortunately, the promising growth EVs and their charging stations bring to our environment also contributes to technology’s vulnerabilities, which can cause key security measures to be overlooked. There’s no getting around it: EV charging stations are highly vulnerable to hackers. Awareness and solutions As the growth continues, there is an acute need for heightened awareness and solutions for the weaknesses associated with these charging stations. These solutions should consider everything from the charging points and devices to operators of the energy distribution networks and infrastructure providers. We must aim to implement advanced cybersecurity measures that will keep safe drivers and all the data that EVs contain.
Case studies
As part of a long-term modernization project at the Baltimore Washington International (BWI) Airport, Helios Electric was retained to perform design-assist, system integration, and on-site field engineering services. The project involved replacing an existing 7.5/10.5 MVA outdoor substation transformer and performing retrofit services at the corresponding medium-voltage switchgear lineups. The project also included enhancements to the electrical system protection since power reliability was deemed vital for airport operations. SEL-787 transformer protection relay A new SEL-787 transformer protection relay was installed to perform advanced transformer monitoring, controls, and system protection. New pilot control devices were installed on the corresponding switchgear lineups to indicate transformer faults, alarms, and mechanical conditions. Vacuum circuit breakers at the existing switchgear lineups were retained and modified to establish connectivity with the new substation transformer and the new transformer protection relay. transformer protection functions This installation approach yielded improved protection for the new transformer while limiting the scope, budget, duration, and power outages required to accomplish the necessary tasks. The improved transformer protection functions included the following: ANSI-87 – Current Differential Protection ANSI-87G – Restricted Earth Fault Protection ANSI-50/51 – Phase Overcurrent Protection (Backup) ANSI-50/51G – Ground Overcurrent Protection (Backup) ANSI-63 – Transformer Sudden Pressure ANSI-71 – Transformer Low Oil Level ANSI-49 – Transformer High Winding Temperature ANSI-26 – Transformer High Oil Temperature AC/DC control modifications To fulfill the customer’s desired requirements, the Helios Electric team investigated the internal circuitry of the switchgear lineups and ascertained the specific AC/DC control modifications required at the existing. Work performed under this project included the following: Examining and analyzing the components and sub-components of the existing switchgear lineups. Tracing the existing 35kV-class and 15kV-class vacuum circuit breakers to determine the existing field configuration. Developing modified equipment shop drawings for approval, construction, and as-built conditions. Programming and configuration of SEL-787 Transformer Protection Relay to establish system protection, controls, and integration with the facility’s Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) System. Installing and modifying existing 35kV-class and 15kV-class vacuum circuit breaker controls to accommodate the new substation transformer and transformer protection relay. Developing Operation & Maintenance (O&M) manuals for modified electrical equipment lineups. On-site electrical equipment training for airport maintenance personnel.
SoFi Stadium, a world-class venue, turned to industry major - Belden for a complete end-to-end cabling and connectivity solution. Belden’s cutting-edge technology supports the stadium’s data-heavy demands, including the one-of-a-kind, roof-suspended Oculus video board, Wi-Fi infrastructure, digital ticketing, and a DAS system. Belden’s solutions for SoFi Stadium When the stadium’s owners required a solution that delivered top-tier quality, performance, and reliability while reducing labor costs, they called Belden. Count on Arrow to deliver unparalleled excellence in the low-voltage industry. Arrow will equip with the competitive advantage needed for any customer, any configuration, and any budget. Copper Cables & Copper Solutions Discover the ultimate lineup of Belden Inc. category cables, tailored to suit every application imaginable! Discover the ultimate lineup of Belden Inc. category cables, tailored to suit every application imaginable! Many cables featured their signature patented Bonded-Pair design, guaranteeing unparalleled signal integrity. Plus, with DataTuff® Industrial category cables, rest assured the system remains resilient against the toughest environmental conditions. Category 6A Choose from an assortment of configurations including small diameter, snake, industrial, non-bonded, and their innovative patented Bonded-Pair technology. Elevating performance benchmarks, Belden's renowned 10GXS Cable stands as the gold standard in the industry. Category 6 Belden has a wide array of Category 6 performance options, featuring their top-of-the-line REVConnect 3600 System cable boasting premium performance and ample headroom. The REVConnect 2400 System cable, surpasses TIA-568-C.2 standards, all backed by Belden’s renowned quality. Category 5e Belden presents a range of Category 5e performance options, with their flagship 1200 Series cable delivering exceptional headroom, surpassing the TIA-568-C.2 Category 5e standard. Featuring Bonded-Pair technology, their 1200 Series ensures unparalleled robustness in installations. Patch Panel Belden’s commercial-grade panels are available in modular (empty) configurations Belden offers a comprehensive range of copper patch panels tailored to meet the demands of both commercial and industrial settings. Belden’s commercial-grade panels are available in modular (empty) configurations or pre-loaded with high-quality copper jacks designed for Category 6A, 6, and 5E network installations. Trunk Cable Optimized for data centers, enterprise networks, and any environment prioritizing swift installation, Trunk Cable Assemblies offer factory termination and rigorous testing, slashing installation time by up to 90%. Eliminating the need for termination, these assemblies come in diverse lengths, equipped with connectors tailored to specific application requirements. Patch Cord Enhancing both performance and physical durability, Belden’s Copper Patch Cords ensure optimal transmission quality for network channels. With superb return loss characteristics adaptable to any environment, Belden’s Copper Patch Cords come in modular, small-diameter, and traceable solutions to meet specific needs. Fiber Cable & Fiber Solutions Discover an array of high-quality indoor and outdoor cable solutions within Belden’s comprehensive product line, featuring both tight buffer and loose tube designs. Tailored for diverse industrial settings, their offerings include armored, burial, and ruggedized options. Crafted to meet various specifications, their product range encompasses OM1, OM3, OM4, OM5, and OS2 (Single Mode) configurations. Tight Buffer Fiber Cables Tight-Buffered Fiber Cables are perfectly tailored for enterprise environments Tight-Buffered Fiber Cables are perfectly tailored for enterprise environments, these cables stand out as a crowd favorite, ideal for intra-building backbones and both horizontal and vertical installations. Offering versatility like no other, they come in fiber counts ranging from two to an impressive 144, making them adaptable to any project scale. Whether indoors or outdoors, these cables are engineered to exceed expectations, boasting a design that ensures seamless performance in any environment. Loose Tube Cables Belden’s Loose Tube Cables offer the ultimate solution for all outdoor and indoor/outdoor fiber optic needs. Whether it’s for OSP, conduit, direct burial, aerial, or trunking applications, Belden’s cables offer unmatched versatility and performance. Choose from a variety of options including dry or gel-filled single and double-jacket designs, with plenum and riser ratings. Armored Cables Belden’s armored cables are designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures, moisture, and physical damage. The armor layer provides an extra level of protection against mechanical stresses, such as crushing, impact, and abrasion, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the cable. It also helps to maintain cable integrity in areas prone to disturbances such as rodent activity. Connectors Belden’s connectors seamlessly integrate fusion splicing with field-installable connectors Belden’s connectors seamlessly integrate the advantages of fusion splicing with the ease of field-installable connectors, they greatly enhance flexibility for field termination, while elevating installation performance and reliability beyond traditional mechanical splice connectors. Eliminating the need for crimping, polishing, or adhesives during termination significantly reduces installation errors. Cassettes Belden offers an advanced DCX and LAN Cassettes platform designed to cater to a wide spectrum of density requirements, ranging from low to ultra-high density applications. Cassettes platform encompasses frames, cassettes, and covers for a comprehensive array of connector types, including LC, SC, ST, and MPO connectors, as well as Copper RJ45 Jacks and Couplers. Patch Cords Simplified, durable, adaptable, and readily accessible. Unmatched quality and performance define Belden's FX patch cords, engineered with a robust design to endure daily wear and tear. Available in standard configurations off the shelf or swiftly customized for tailored installations, they ensure reliability in any setting.
Siemens has developed a digital twin especially for large event spaces. The technology makes it possible to realistically reproduce and simulate very precisely a building’s acoustics and structure. The Sound of Science application will be used for the first time in the Großes Festspielhaus – the Large Festival Hall – at the Salzburg Festival. Sound of Science application Orchestral formations on the stage can also be tested and arranged in advance Sound of Science will enable event organizers to virtually explore how acoustics change in different spatial configurations – for example, how adding acoustic panels affects the listening experience – in order to select the optimal acoustic scenario. Orchestral formations on the stage can also be tested and arranged in advance – before a single note is heard in the real world. This approach saves money, resources and time. Siemens to use digital twins “With Sound of Science, we’re designing the future. Digital twins are not only transforming the everyday for many companies, but are also creating new opportunities for the cultural and creative industries,” said Prof. Dr. Stephan Frucht, Artistic Director of the Siemens Arts Program. Dr. Stephan Frucht adds, “In the future, we’ll be able to plan stage productions better and even simulate them acoustically in advance. We’re delighted to have the Salzburg Festival at our side as a long-standing partner, who recognizes the opportunities such innovations offer.” Sound of Science app for select partners Siemens will make the Sound of Science app available to selected partners from the cultural world free of charge as a demonstration application. There are currently no plans to market the application. Its simulation solutions, however, may be purchased. The Salzburg Festival’s Großes Festspielhaus is the first and only large event space to date in which Sound of Science is available. However, Siemens is planning to digitally simulate further spaces – including concert halls in Germany and England. At the Salzburg Festival, audiences will have an opportunity – unique for the time being – to use VR glasses to experience the application at the festival’s opening on July 20. Siemens and the Salzburg Festival “Siemens and the Salzburg Festival share a common passion for excellence and innovation. And we’re delighted to partake in this pioneering technological development and innovation as part of our long-standing close and trust-based partnership,” said Dr. Kristina Hammer, President of the Salzburg Festival. Dr. Kristina Hammer adds, “We’re excited to see what diverse applications will stem from Sound of Science in the future.” Siemens Simcenter’s simulation solutions The technologies used are part of the simulation solutions from Siemens Simcenter The technologies used are part of the simulation solutions from Siemens Simcenter, which has been part of the company’s core business for over 15 years. The technology is mostly used in industry – for example, for the acoustic optimization of vehicle interiors or for protection against street noise. For Sound of Science, Simcenter uses a combination of impulse response measurements and ray tracing for the 3D modeling of each event space. These methods can measure the echo and reverberation of a sound and simulate how sound waves propagate in a room. Depending on the material, reflections of sound waves behave differently. Those that bounce off a concrete wall react differently from those that hit a carpet or reach the ear directly. As a result, the simulation can reproduce the individual sound signature of each event space – in other words, its acoustic DNA. Siemens Festival Nights Siemens has been working closely with the Salzburg Festival for around 30 years. Since 1999, the company has also been the festival’s main sponsor. Since 2002, the Siemens Festival Nights have been held on Kapitelplatz square during the Salzburg Festival. Since its beginning, this open-air event has provided more than one million visitors with the opportunity to experience previous and current festival productions on an LED screen free of charge. In addition, some of the Salzburg Festival’s venues are equipped with Siemens technology from the areas of building automation, security and acoustics.
The project aims to increase the resilience of the city's transmission network, reducing dependence on energy supply from other locations, and meeting demand during the peak tourism season. WEG has just announced the supply of a complete energy storage system (BESS) for the city of Aspen, located in the state of Colorado, USA. The project aims to enhance the resilience of the local power grid, which does not have its own power generation system and is entirely dependent on generation from other cities. Microgrid management software The solution provided by WEG includes transformers, AC/DC voltage converters, battery containers, switching and protection systems, as well as advanced microgeneration or microgrid management software. The initial system will have a capacity of 1.5 MW of power and 2 MWh of stored energy The initial system will have a capacity of 1.5 MW of power and 2 MWh of stored energy, with the potential to expand to up to 8 MWh when fully implemented. The management software is being developed by teams of specialists in the United States and Brazil, where WEG’s largest software development technical team is based. Implementation of the BESS system This project is yet another in the portfolio of BESS systems in the United States, where WEG has a group of engineers dedicated to this product in the cities of Duluth, GA, and Barre, VT. According to Carlos Bastos Grillo, Managing Director of Digital and Systems at WEG, the implementation of the BESS system will not only reduce dependency on external energy sources, but also increase the city's resilience against power supply interruptions during the peak season and dry periods, when wildfires occur more frequently in the region. Facing similar challenges "The guarantee of a stable power supply is vital for the sustainability of local tourism, which is the backbone of Aspen's economy. We believe that this project will not only benefit residents and visitors, but also serve as a model for other cities facing similar challenges," assures the Executive. The BESS system is scheduled to be completed by September 2024, preparing Aspen for the high ski season that starts in November. Timely completion will ensure that the city does not suffer from power shortages during one of the most critical periods for local tourism.
Jenkins sold a Jenkins Motor Test System to Oman, where temperatures can exceed 120ºF. While Jenkins Motor Test Systems are built tough and for industrial environments, this specific location required customizations to be the most effective in an extremely hot environment. Locations near large bodies of water or tropical environments can also cause problems as the humidity in the air will cause the copper wiring in the transformer to oxidize over time. Although Jenkins designs its equipment to operate for long periods, some applications for customer environments require specific customization. The Solution Jenkins engineers and winders worked together to develop a custom solution for this harsh climate, particularly paying close attention to temperature and water resistance. To customize the transformer for this environment, the Jenkins team made the following modifications: Doubling the spacing between winding layers to increase airflow. Encasing the transformer first in a high tolerance epoxy varnish, and then in a polyester over-dip that prevents the application from rust, dust, and harmful materials. Utilizing expanded metal at the base of the MTS enclosure, allows heat to escape, reducing the internal temperature. Installing temperature-sensitive cooling fans (set to 100ºF) atop the enclosure to prevent overheating. The Results Jenkins technicians checked insulation for 10,000 volts (resistance to ground), checked each voltage leg, and high voltage potential to ground, and ensured the taps were in the correct place. Voltage was confirmed to operate up to 20% above normal operation, ensuring maximum efficiency and longevity of the transformer. These modifications have resulted in prolonged use of the Jenkins Motor Test System in harsh environments and ultimately customer satisfaction.
As part of their strategy to address damp and mold, West Dunbartonshire Council will deploy Aico’s HomeLINK Environmental Sensors across all their properties. The Council is one of Scotland’s major social housing landlords, currently owning and managing over 10,400 homes, and are focusing on increasing energy efficiency, tackling existing issues, such as damp and mold, as well as improving tenant safety, health and well-being. Ei1000G Gateway and Ei1025, Ei1020 Environmental Sensors The organization has taken the proactive approach to install the Ei1000G Gateway and Ei1025 and Ei1020 Environmental Sensors in each of their homes, making this Scotland’s largest scaled Internet of Things (IoT) roll out to date. By utilizing a multi-network sim card and RF interconnection, the sensors will be seamlessly retrofitted By utilizing a multi-network sim card and RF interconnection, the sensors will be seamlessly retrofitted into existing properties and can provide the council with a consistency on key air quality information, such as carbon dioxide, temperature, humidity, as well as insights on fire and CO activations. This will then lead to insights such as indoor air quality (IAQ) risk, damp and mold, excess heat, cold homes, potential fuel poverty, and void risk. HomeLINK App for Residents The HomeLINK App for Residents empowers individuals to take control of their home’s indoor environment. Tenants will receive alarm testing reminders and tailored recommendations. Councilor Gurpreet Singh Johal, Convener of Housing and Communities, said: “None of our tenants should be living in a home that is affected by damp or mold and these new sensors will allow us to access information on the fabric of each home easily so we can take action quickly to resolve. Not only that, we will have data to track the problem and help us identify what the best approach to resolve it will be.” Biggest roll out of this type of sensor in Scotland Councilor Gurpreet Singh Johal adds, “This is the biggest roll out of this type of sensor in Scotland and I am proud that West Dunbartonshire’s approach to dealing with damp and mold is not only leading the way, but addressing the problem in an efficient and proactive manner.” As Scotland’s social housing sector now rapidly adopts the use of IoT technologies" Gregor Morrison, Regional Specification Manager for the West of Scotland said “As Scotland’s social housing sector now rapidly adopts the use of IoT technologies to help not only increase the level of home life safety, but to improve resident health and well-being. This progressive approach from West Dunbartonshire Council to provide all homes with the opportunity for this technology is admirable.” Incorporation of the Environmental Sensors Gregor Morrison adds, “The incorporation of the Environmental Sensors will be pivotal in generating essential home health insights, as well as providing data for the tenant through the resident app, leading to healthier and more energy-efficient homes within the community.” He continues, “Growing up in and around the social housing sector in Yoker & Clydebank, I’m really looking forward to continuing the close working relationship with WDC, and seeing first-hand the difference the technology can make within the community.”


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