IoT
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Siemens AG, a technology company, and Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn), the world's largest electronics manufacturer, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to drive digital transformation and sustainability in smart manufacturing platforms. scalable and seamless engineering The collaboration focuses on global manufacturing processes in electronics, information and communications technology, and electric vehicles (EV). Siemens and Foxconn are working together to establish a scalable and seamless engineering and manufacturing ecosystem. digital and sustainability transformation Roland Busch, President and CEO of Siemens AG emphasized the significance of this partnership, "We believe in the power of ecosystems to drive digital and sustainability transformation and scale technology." "Our partnership underscores our commitment to shape the future of electronics manufacturing. We will support customers with greater efficiency and speed due to optimized engineering and manufacturing workflows.” key collaboration areas MoU identifies key collaboration areas to increase the level of automation within Foxconn's facilities Young Liu, Chairman and CEO of Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn) said, “Foxconn is transforming into a platform solutions provider for smart manufacturing, smart EV, and smart city. Joining forces with Siemens accelerates our digital transformation journey and opens up new possibilities for innovation and sustainability." This MoU identifies key collaboration areas to increase the level of automation within Foxconn's facilities. These areas include electronics manufacturing services (EMS) and contract design and manufacturing service (CDMS), which is Foxconn’s innovative business model for electric vehicles. automation portfolio and industrial software Both companies will explore initiatives to work towards the factory of the future by implementing Siemens' factory automation portfolio and industrial software, including building blocks such as digital twin technology and artificial intelligence (AI). Siemens Xcelerator, with its comprehensive suite of software and solutions, will play a pivotal role in optimizing Foxconn's engineering and manufacturing workflows, facilitating efficiency and agility across its operations. energy savings The partnership involves establishing transparent monitoring processes and applying professional services The collaboration aims to leverage how Siemens' technical expertise can enhance Foxconn’s sustainability performance, contributing to energy savings and reduced CO2 footprint. This partnership involves establishing transparent monitoring processes and applying professional services and digital solutions, as both companies work towards a greener future for electronics manufacturing. EVs and e-mobility solutions “Electronics are the backbone of modern society, powering consumer goods to EVs and e-mobility solutions. Therefore, we are very proud to intensify our collaboration with Foxconn,” said Cedrik Neike, CEO of Digital Industries and Member of the Managing Board of Siemens AG. “With Siemens’ domain know-how and portfolio in factory automation and software, we will accelerate the transformation of the electronics manufacturing industry and support Foxconn to achieve its sustainability targets.” ‘factory of the future’ in AI Dr. Zhe Shi, Foxconn’s Chief Digital Officer and head of its Smart Manufacturing platform added, “Siemens is a pioneer in providing digital transformation solutions." "Our deepening collaboration to build the ‘factory of the future’ in the AI era will enable us to provide top-flight manufacturing service to all our customers.”
Eletrobras Chesf contracted WEG, through a bidding process, for the modernization of the Paulo Afonso IV Hydroelectric Power Plant located in the state of Bahia, Brazil. The plant has a production capacity of 2,462 megawatts of energy, sufficient to supply a city with over 2 million inhabitants. step-up transformer WEG was responsible for supplying and installing the new step-up transformers, as well as the removal and proper disposal of the old equipment, ensuring that the entire process was carried out responsibly and sustainably, by relevant environmental regulations. The equipment weighs over 100 tons each. The replacement involved the movement of 40 large-scale pieces of equipment and required a significant joint planning effort. All generator machine shutdowns for transformer replacement needed to be negotiated with the National System Operator (ONS) to minimize energy unavailability. efficient transmission Following this pioneering and successful work, the Paulo Afonso IV Hydroelectric Power Plant has been equipped with twenty new single-phase step-up transformers, with a power rating of 150MVA each. These robust devices are designed to raise the electrical voltage from 18 kV to 500 kV, allowing for more efficient transmission, and reliable and continuous delivery of energy to residences, businesses, and industries.
Mitsubishi Electric Corporation and Musashi Energy Solutions Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Musashi Seimitsu Industry Co., Ltd., announced their signing of a partnership and co-development agreement on May 14 for Innovative Energy Storage Devices to be incorporated into Innovative Energy Storage Modules, and Battery Management Systems (BMSs) that monitor and control battery usage for railway operators and rolling stock manufacturers. high safety levels of HSCs Under the joint-development agreement, Mitsubishi Electric’s advanced technologies will be leveraged in Innovative Energy Storage Modules to upgrade Musashi Energy Solutions’ Innovative Energy Storage Devices with functions for vibration resistance, insulation and waterproofing to be utilized in railcars and any other vehicles. The devices are expected to achieve the long service life and high safety levels of Hybrid Supercapacitors The devices are expected to achieve the long service life and high safety levels of Hybrid Supercapacitors (HSCs), as well as high output density not possible with conventional lithium-ion batteries and high-capacity density not possible with conventional HSCs. In addition, the modules are expected to provide optimal output density and capacity density to absorb high regenerative power generated during railcar braking and output running power. CO2 emissions and power consumption The Innovative Energy Storage Module will enable power storage for hydrogen fuel cell hybrid trains, diesel hybrid trains, overhead catenary-less trains, substation peak shaving, brake resistor replacement, etc., as well as various railway solutions, both onboard and above ground, to support carbon neutrality. In the future, Innovative Energy Storage Modules and BMSs combine technologies from both companies, including Mitsubishi Electric technologies for manufacturing compact energy-saving power electronics devices and for high-precision estimation of battery state of charge (SOC) and state of health (SOH), and Musashi Energy Solutions technologies for manufacturing pre-doped Energy Storage Devices, a byproduct of the company’s HSC expertise. The goal is to contribute to more sustainable railways by reducing both CO2 emissions and power consumption as well as streamlining facilities. Mitsubishi Electric’s global sales network will be used to sell Innovative Energy Storage Modules to railway companies overseas as well as in Japan. Use of advanced energy storage technology Railway companies, especially in the EU, are strengthening their sustainability initiatives Railway companies, especially in the EU, are strengthening their sustainability initiatives by introducing eco-friendly railcars equipped with energy storage technology to reduce both CO2 emissions and power consumption and other technologies for streamlining facilities and managing shifting power peaks. In addition to railways, various infrastructures also require more stable and effective power utilization through the use of advanced energy storage technology. Manufacture of energy-management systems Mitsubishi Electric has a strong presence in rolling stock electrical equipment markets in Japan and overseas. Through initiatives such as the development and manufacture of energy-management systems for railways and the company’s Station Energy Saving Inverter (S-EIV®), which makes effective use of regenerative energy, Mitsubishi Electric is contributing to greater power-supply stability and sustainability for railways. Musashi Energy Solutions has been a world-pioneering mass producer of HSCs since 2011. The company provides space-saving and weight-reduction devices to meet market demands for rapid charging and discharging, energy regeneration and peak-power assistance.
With the International Energy Agency (IEA)’s 9th Global Conference on 21-22 May in Nairobi approaching fast, businesses across the world face the goal of doubling progress towards energy efficiency by 2030 to meet COP28 emissions targets and cut energy costs. However, a recent report from the Energy Efficiency Movement shows that while there is optimism and appetite among businesses to invest in energy efficiency, the survey also identified barriers, including a lack of specialist resources (33 percent). Version of motor-driven systems To address this deficit and help businesses take the first step on their journey toward energy efficiency, ABB is launching an online calculator that offers easy access to data insight based on the energy performance of motor-driven systems. ABB is launching an online calculator that offers easy access to data insight By inputting basic details about their motor fleet, running hours and average operating power, the customer can estimate energy and emissions savings, and payback period. The online calculator is a light version of the in-depth energy efficiency audit used by ABB’s experts in a full study and is based on the same algorithm. Environmental impact and operating costs “Improving energy efficiency is one of the fastest and most cost-effective ways for industrial organizations to reduce their environmental impact and operating costs,” said Erich Labuda, President of the Motion Services division at ABB. “However, many businesses lack the data insights needed to act. Our new online calculator democratizes access to this valuable information and helps businesses understand the scale of the opportunity.” Latest motor and drive technology The calculator focuses on low-voltage motors of efficiency class IE3 and below The calculator provides an initial estimate of the potential energy and cost savings achievable by upgrading pump and fan systems driven by low voltage direct online (DOL) motors, which are installed without a variable speed drive (VSD) to control their speed. The calculator focuses on low-voltage motors of efficiency class IE3 and below. It estimates the energy savings that could be achieved by upgrading to the latest motor and drive technology – the IE5 SynRM package – for optimal energy efficiency gains. Energy efficiency journey After seeing the potential results, the next step in the energy efficiency journey is a full energy efficiency audit, where ABB’s experts gather site-specific data to precisely identify an operator’s top opportunities for saving energy. Once an audit’s recommendations are implemented, the final step is to protect their investments with customized service agreements that keep their motors and drives operating efficiently and reliably through their lifetime.
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.
Power Beat
Electricians play a pivotal role in preventing electrical fires by following safe practices during installations, repairs, and inspections. At a minimum, electricians should ensure all electrical wiring and components are installed according to current building codes and manufacturers' specifications. This includes using the right size wires for the amperage load, using approved materials, and properly securing all connections. During electrical inspections, electricians should identify and address any potential fire hazards. Electricians can also advise homeowners on electrical safety measures they can take to prevent fires. These include safe appliance use, avoiding overloaded outlets, and the importance of smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Maintenance of electrical systems Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) can prevent possible fires. GFCI outlets have built-in protection to detect imbalances in electrical current and quickly shut off power to prevent shocks and potential fires, particularly in areas prone to moisture like kitchens and bathrooms. Regular maintenance of electrical systems is also crucial for fire prevention. Electricians can perform preventative maintenance checks to identify and address any developing issues before they become serious fire hazards. Fire departments responded to an average of 32,160 home fires involving electrical distribution Fire departments responded to an average of 32,160 home fires involving electrical distribution and lighting equipment each year in 2015–2019, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Electrical fires cause scores of civilian deaths and hundreds of civilian injuries, as well as millions of dollars in property damage. Fire Hazards in the Home Some of the electrical components that present fire hazards in the home include faulty electrical outlets and switches, worn or damaged components, overloaded circuits, damaged or frayed cords, and misused extension cords and power strips. Improper use of light fixtures can also be a danger, and space heaters can be a fire hazard if they are placed too close to flammable materials or left unattended. Damaged or frayed cords can cause sparks and ignite nearby flammable materials As outlets and switches age, the wiring behind them can loosen and break, causing sparks and fire. Loose plugs can also overheat and ignite surrounding materials. Plugging too many appliances into a single outlet or using extension cords instead of proper wiring can overload a circuit, thus causing overheating and fires. Damaged or frayed cords can cause sparks and ignite nearby flammable materials. Cords that are kinked, pinched, or have exposed wires should be avoided and replaced immediately. Minimizing the Risk of Electrical Fires Here are some steps a homeowner can take to minimize the risk of fire from electrical systems: Upgrade the electrical system, especially if the home is older. If the electrical system has not been updated in a while, a qualified electrician can advise if it needs modernization. This could involve upgrading to breakers with better safety features such as Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) technology. Schedule an electrical safety inspection. Having a qualified electrician periodically inspect a home's electrical system can identify potential problems before they escalate into fire hazards. Keep flammable materials away from electrical components, including curtains, furniture, and piles of paper. Sparks and overheating can easily ignite nearby flammables. Addressing Multiple Threats Effective communication is key for electricians to impress upon homeowners the seriousness of fire hazards. Avoid technical jargon and explain fire hazards in clear, concise language that homeowners can understand. Focus on the potential consequences, like damage to property or injury, to heighten awareness. Pictures can be worth a thousand words. Show homeowners examples of damaged wiring, overloaded outlets, or faulty installations that pose fire risks. This can be done through photos on a tablet or phone, or even carrying around small physical samples. Frame the conversation around safety for the homeowner and their family. Highlight how addressing these hazards can prevent potential fires and ensure a safe living environment. Provide a written report after the inspection or repair. This report should detail the identified hazards, the corrective actions taken, and any recommendations for future maintenance or upgrades. By combining clear communication, visual aids, and a focus on safety, electricians can effectively convey the importance of addressing fire hazards to homeowners and empower them to make informed decisions about their electrical systems.
Rising material prices and inflation, in general, are likely to continue to plague electricians and others in the trade service businesses, according to a new survey conducted by the business management software platform Simpro. In the survey, 20% of electrical respondents say they are more likely to face rising material prices this year, while 20% of owners, CEOs, and business managers in the broader category of trade service businesses are more likely to face inflation concerns. ongoing economic uncertainty Another big concern across all trade service businesses is staff retention. Even higher percentages of survey respondents expect continuing challenges presented by the labor market: 73% anticipate hiring to be more challenging in 2023 than last year because of a lack of skilled workers (cited by 51% of respondents) and ongoing economic uncertainty (cited by 50%). The survey, conducted in January 2023, also highlighted changes trade service companies saw in the market last year compared to 2021. Customer acquisition Customer acquisition was more challenging in 2022, according to 66% of survey respondents In a service-based industry, customer satisfaction is a high priority: 95% of trade professionals noted that customer experience is paramount, and 73% have adopted technology tools specifically designed to enhance the customer experience. Customer acquisition was more challenging in 2022, according to 66% of survey respondents, while customer retention was more challenging for 60% of respondents. Hiring was also more difficult than in 2021, according to 76% of the survey respondents. Simpro’s smart technology solutions In the survey, Simpro seeks to highlight the ways technological innovations can shape the future of trade services businesses and their customers. Simpro’s total business management software platform for commercial trade service businesses performs functions such as job quoting, scheduling, inventory tracking, invoicing, and others. Simpro’s smart technology solutions and expert long-term support help businesses build, repair and power their future with control over operations. “Voice of the Trades” survey Trade professionals are estimated to spend more than 18 hours a week on tasks such as scheduling In the “Voice of the Trades” survey, 72% of trade professionals (including HVAC, security, plumbers, contractors, electricians, and others) believe that new software and technology must be adopted to remain competitive. Also, 60% feel that administrative burdens have a negative impact on their ability to service customers. Trade professionals, including electricians, estimate they spend more than 18 hours a week on tasks such as scheduling, inventory, invoicing and overall workflow management. The report reveals why it is so hard to find a contractor or service technician right now: 49% of respondents share a belief that time on admin has directly contributed to that customer frustration. Clear roadmap for operational efficiency “The Voice of the Trades findings confirm the need for trade businesses worldwide to implement technology solutions to lessen the burden of business management in any economy,” said Gary Specter, CEO of Simpro. “This research provides a clear roadmap for improving operational efficiency so trade organizations can better serve their customers.” The report gleaned feedback from 840 respondents who are trade industry professionals, with a geographic pool that includes the U.S., U.K., Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. Founded in 2002 by an electrical contractor and headquartered in Brisbane, Australia, Simpro supports more than 8,000 businesses and 200,000 users worldwide in the electrical, plumbing, HVAC, security and fire protection industries with 700-plus employees in six offices around the world.
Packaging materials help to protect fragile electronics and electrical components from breakage. Small electrical devices and electronics are often packaged in individual plastic coverings within a larger box. Manufacturers use a variety of plastics to produce anti-static bags, pouches, film, and bubble wrap for electronics. single-use plastics Excessive consumption of single-use plastics and other packaging materials is an emerging concern in the electrical market. The use of plastic and non-recyclable materials in equipment packaging is contributing to the electrical market’s environmental footprint. organic packaging More electrical manufacturers need to transition towards a more sustainable future and implement organic packaging. Companies can minimize the negative environmental impact and become more green-friendly. While the industry has previously had a negative environmental impact, many businesses are rectifying these issues. Using less paper, plastic, wood, metal packaging, and other auxiliary materials contributes to the goal of being lightweight, recyclable, and sustainable. polystyrene foam Of the total plastic packaging waste, around 40% is disposed of at sanitary landfills Many electrical components are packaged with plastic shrink films. In addition, polystyrene foam can be used to cushion components, and plastic corner protectors may be used to strengthen boxes. Less than 10% of the plastic waste ever generated has been recycled. Plastics pollute the ocean and do not decompose in landfills. Of the total plastic packaging waste, around 40% is disposed of at sanitary landfills, 14% is collected for recycling, and 14% makes its way to incineration facilities (which cause CO2 emissions). The negative impact of plastic The fact is, most plastics used for packaging are recyclable, although most wind up in landfills due to ineffective or non-existent packaging recovery schemes. In addition, plastics contribute to emissions of greenhouse gas at each stage of their lifecycles. Therefore, plastics, which contribute up to 13% of the total “carbon budget,” will negatively impact efforts to meet the Paris climate agreement. action against single-use plastics There is a shift in focus from consumer education to holding manufacturers responsible for their environmental impact Focusing on consumer behavior has spurred much of the campaign against plastics to date. For example, the federal government has taken steps to phase out single-use plastics in national parks and other public lands. Several states have taken action against single-use plastics. For example, New Jersey no longer allows grocery stores and retailers to distribute plastic bags. The Garden State has also banned polystyrene foam packaging from restaurants and food companies. However, there is also a shift in focus from consumer education to holding manufacturers responsible for their environmental impact. Maine and California are focusing on the issue and may be among the jurisdictions to target manufacturers’ role in single-use plastics. replacement alternatives There are replacement alternatives available, but they tend to add costs for manufacturers. For example, bioplastics are made with biodegradable sources that can break down faster than traditional plastics. However, bioplastics must be properly disposed of through composting to break down. Also, bioplastics are not recyclable and can even contaminate other recyclable materials. Disposal in a landfill, which is common, defeats the purpose of using more expensive materials. environmentally friendly alternatives Some argue that recycled plastic may be the greenest alternative, although it results in recyclables winding up in landfills Instead of polystyrene foam, packaging may consist of corrugated cardboard or plastic alternatives that are allegedly more environmentally friendly. Biodegradable wood or paper are other alternatives. However, disposal in landfills continues to be problematic with decomposition sometimes leading to the production of methane (a greenhouse gas). However, some argue that recycled plastic may be the greenest alternative, although recycling realities instead result in recyclables winding up in landfills, where they do not decompose. EPR schemes An added cost for electrical manufacturers might be a requirement to pay into extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes. EPR is a strategy to add the estimated environmental costs associated with a product’s entire lifecycle to the cost of the product. In effect, the strategy assigns responsibility for the environmental impact of products to the manufacturer. Legislation Legislation to address packaging EPR has been implemented in Maryland, New York, Washington, and New Jersey (originally introduced in 2022 and still active). In 2016, the Product Stewardship Institute developed a model packaging EPR legislation, then updated it in 2019 with input from the industry and government. Maine and Oregon used the model to enact packaging EPR laws in 2021, Colorado followed suit in 2022 and, that same year, California also enacted legislation that the model informed.
Case studies
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.
Fluence Energy, Inc., a global provider of energy storage products, services, and optimization software for renewables and storage, announces that the company has been selected by Origin Energy Limited (Origin) to deliver a 300 MW / 650 MWh battery at the Mortlake Power Station in southwest Victoria. The project will use Fluence’s Gridstack™ energy storage product with a 15-year service agreement contributing to Origin’s strategy to accelerate renewable energy and energy storage in its portfolio. The system will also utilize Fluence’s AI-powered asset performance management (APM) software, Nispera™, to optimize the battery’s operational performance. Energy storage projects The system will capture excess power during periods of high renewable generation “We are honored to be selected by Origin to deliver this grid-forming battery-based energy storage system and deploy our ecosystem of solutions,” said Fluence President and Chief Executive Officer, Julian Nebreda. Julian Nebreda adds, “Australia is an important market for Fluence. Our local team is now delivering over 1 GW energy storage projects within Australia to enhance grid stability and enable the country’s clean energy transition.” Energy storage system to be commissioned in late 2026 The site preparation and civil works of the Mortlake Battery are expected to commence following a period of detailed design and procurement activity. The energy storage system is anticipated to be commissioned in late 2026. Located in Victoria’s South West Renewable Energy Zone, this energy storage system will provide system strength to the grid. The system will capture excess power during periods of high renewable generation and discharge to meet peak demand.
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.”
Mitsubishi Electric Corporation announced that it has delivered the first unit of an air-surveillance radar system to the Philippine Air Force last month. The system, which was designed, manufactured and tested in Japan, was ordered by the Department of National Defense of the Republic of the Philippines in August 2020. first unit of air-surveillance radar system delivered Mitsubishi Electric continues to work on the remaining units for future delivery This is the first time a Japanese company has transferred finished defense equipment to a foreign government since the Japanese government established the Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology in April 2014. Mitsubishi Electric continues to work on the remaining units for future delivery. Mitsubishi Electric contributes to Japan’s security In accordance with the government’s aforementioned Three Principles, Mitsubishi Electric is contributing to Japan’s security by working to strengthen deterrence through cooperation with the Japanese government, in order to meet needs for joint development, equipment transfer and participation in supply chains involving various governments and companies in other countries.