Smart Systems
Decarbonization, Zero Waste, and Net Zero carbon emissions: they’re increasingly common goals for organizations, building owners, and facility managers. The first step toward achieving these goals, of course, is to measure building emissions to create a baseline. This measurement allows building owners and operators to assess the effectiveness of their sustainability and energy efficiency initiatives and demonstrate progress toward climate commitments. New construction and major renovati...
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...
Delta, a pioneer in power management and smart green solutions, announced its 5,500W 19-inch (1RU) and ORv3 21-inch (1OU) high-power redundant power supplies for AI servers have recently become the world’s first to attain the industry’s highest energy efficiency certification 80 PLUS® Ruby due to their groundbreaking peak efficiency as high as 97.5%, and a power factor of 0.99 under full load. Delta has drawn upon its superior prowess in soft-switching technology and advanced ci...
Fischer Connectors' Swiss-engineered MIL-SPEC solution features an expanded portfolio of cables compatible with Nett Warrior and NATO STANAG 4695/4851 interfaces via Fischer UltiMate 80 connectors. It offers a competitive solution in line with the U.S. Army’s Next Generation Hub (NGH) specifications. The new general-purpose, power, radio, EUD, and device cables enable plug-and-play connectivity, compatibility, and interoperability within the battlefield management ecosystem. advanced int...
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 autom...
Comau has signed a binding agreement for the acquisition of Automha, an Italian company operating in the warehousing and intralogistics automation industry, owned by Trasma. The closing of the transaction is subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions precedent in transactions of this type, including necessary regulatory approvals, and is expected to occur in the second quarter of 2025. New options in the logistics sector Automha will continue to operate with the same structure, manag...
News
Allianz Engineering has introduced a new inspection service for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, aimed at businesses and industrial sites. As the UK ramps up its use of solar energy, spurred by government incentives and growing public interest in sustainability, regular inspections are becoming increasingly important. This new service extends the existing ‘Electrical Fixed Wiring Inspection’ to include regular checks and tests for solar PV systems. It can be used alone or alongside current wiring inspections, offering flexibility to suit different client needs. Ambitious solar energy goals With solar energy growing quickly, it's crucial to ensure solar PV systems are safe and efficient The UK government has set ambitious solar energy goals as part of its 2030 clean power mission. According to official statistics, since October 2024, there has been a 6% increase in solar capacity. With solar energy growing quickly, it's crucial to ensure solar PV systems are safe and efficient. Periodic inspections help identify electrical defects in cabling or inverters that could cause fires, supporting duty holders in keeping systems safe and compliant with legal requirements. Network of Allianz offices across the UK Martin Ball, Head of Inspection at Allianz Engineering Inspection Services, commented: "With a comprehensive network of Allianz offices across the UK, our inspection engineers are strategically positioned to provide unparalleled support to clients with their inspection needs." He adds, "Alongside this, our broker support teams are there to ensure brokers have access to the resources and assistance necessary to enhance their service portfolio. This setup not only strengthens our relationships with brokers, but also demonstrates our dedication to providing top-notch services to our clients."
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 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 Regular inspections and scheduled maintenance activities to prevent failures before they occur 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 journey towards condition monitoring is just the beginning. As technology continues to evolve, they 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. 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 they look to the future, the continued innovation in condition monitoring will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of electrical services.
Delta, a global pioneer in power management and smart green solutions, highlighted at Hannover Messe 2025 a versatile set of AI-driven smart manufacturing, energy infrastructure, and data centre solutions. These include, the award-winning D-Bot series cobots, featuring advanced cognitive capabilities and integration with NVIDIA Omniverse to develop next-generation digital twins; and DeltaGrid®, the AI-enabled energy management platform to optimize efficiency in the energy infrastructure supporting energy transition. Smart AI solutions Shan-Shan Guo, Delta’s Chief Brand Officer, said, “Investments in both AI and public infrastructure are accelerating across the EMEA region. In the meantime, sustainability is even more important than ever. Our customers seek industrial solutions that can deliver both efficiency and resilience.” “Delta‘s expertise in energy-efficient data centre infrastructure and AI-enabled solutions for smart manufacturing and energy management will empower businesses to unleash AI’s potential while achieving their sustainability goals.” Smart Innovation EMEA Dalip Sharma, President and General Manager, Delta Electronics EMEA, said, “Our solutions are significantly contributing to the development of smart manufacturing and logistics, e-mobility, smart energy grids, and data centers across EMEA.” “For example, over 30,000 of our high-efficiency charging systems are supporting more than half a million AGVs for a world-leading e-commerce enterprise while our PCS1500 series power conditioning systems are supporting a large-scale BESS project in the Netherlands. We look forward to collaborating even further with our partners at Hannover Messe 2025 to build an intelligent and sustainable future for the next-generation.” Spotlight on Intelligent Industry Intelligent D-Bot Series Cobots With the newly-launched Cognibot Kit, Delta's D-Bot series cobots feature AI functions and intuitive human-machine collaboration via the AI-Compute-Box. The system integrates sensors and AI for seamless operation, featuring 360° speech recognition, 3D object detection, gesture control, acoustic feedback, multimodal AI interaction, Wi-Fi, and an integrated 3D camera. With the Cognibot Kit, cognitive robotics become accessible to businesses of all sizes. Seamless integration increases efficiency and flexibility, unlocking new possibilities. Implementing AI-Driven Automation Delta is leveraging NVIDIA Omniverse to drive AI-based automation at every level Delta is leveraging NVIDIA Omniverse to drive AI-based automation at every level. This includes seamless integration with D-Bot cobots for real-time digital twins, enhancing safety through predictive collision avoidance and optimizing performance with grip path training and AI model development. Furthermore, Delta utilizes NVIDIA Omniverse and NVIDIA Isaac Sim for broader manufacturing applications, creating comprehensive digital twins of complex processes to facilitate advanced planning, simulation, and optimization. Revolutionizing Industrial e-Vehicles Delta’s newly launched MOOVbase Multi-Port Charging System is designed to simplify charging infrastructure for small logistics vehicles and battery swap stations. It enables simultaneous charging of up to three vehicles with different battery voltage levels using a single AC connection, delivering maximum flexibility and operational uptime. Another highlight is the extensive Wireless Charging System portfolio MOOVair. With power options ranging from 1kW to 30kW, the MOOVair facilitates efficient, hands-free charging for AGVs, forklifts, and tugs, significantly maximizing fleet uptime and reducing maintenance. The MOOVair 03, a flagship model, delivers 3kW of high-performance wireless charging, charging current of 132A at 24V. Driving the energy transition AI-powered grid management DeltaGrid is an advanced energy management platform designed to optimize energy consumption across diverse applications. By leveraging cutting edge AI algorithms, it enables real-time control, seamless integration of renewable energy sources, and intelligent EV charging management. Purpose-built for commercial and industrial facilities, energy service providers, and EV charging operators, DeltaGrid enhances operational efficiency, reduces energy costs, and supports organizations in achieving their sustainability goals. Comprehensive EV charging solutions Over 700 McDonald’s restaurants across France are supported by Delta’s UFC200 EV chargers deployed by strategic partner IZIVIA, demonstrating Delta’s leading position in EMEA. Highlights at Hannover Messe 2025 include the German Eichrecht-certified 500kW Ultra-Fast EV Charger, capable of charging two vehicles simultaneously at 250kW each. This compact, high-performance solution leverages SiCMOS technology for high conversion efficiency, ensuring fast and efficient charging for diverse EVs with accurate billing and all-weather reliability, making it ideal for high-demand environments. Next-Gen energy storage system solution Delta’s latest Energy Storage Solution spotlights the DELTerra C, an all-in-one system Delta’s latest Energy Storage Solution spotlights the DELTerra C, an all-in-one system with 125kW / 261 kWh capacity tailored for behind-the-meter applications. This innovative solution features skid design for quick and easy installation, a fully liquid-cooled architecture with optimized energy density, and automatic State of Charge (SOC) calibration to reduce O&M costs. Scalable up to 10 units, the DELTerra C delivers exceptional flexibility to meet the energy demands of factories, commercial buildings, and EV charging stations. For utility-scale energy storage needs, Delta introduces the DELTerra M1, featuring a compact 10-ft battery container design with flexible configurations ranging from 708 kWh to 7.78 MWh — engineered to support large-scale renewable integration and enhance grid stability. Empowering digitalisation Delta offers reliable solutions to address the growing demands of modern data centres for reliability, efficiency, and scalability, such as the Xubus Edge, which offers ruggedized outdoor units providing high-availability infrastructure for mission critical applications. For high-density data centres, Delta offers the Modulon DPH 500kVA Series UPS, a modular UPS with industry-pioneer power density (50kW per module) in a compact 3U space, ensuring high availability and manageability. Delta also presents its high-efficiency server power shelves, designed to deliver optimized efficiency and reliable power supply for AI factories and NVIDIA-accelerated computing infrastructure. Smart & sustainable Welcome to Delta’s booth at Hall 11, Stand C05, and explore ways to collaborate on building a smarter, more sustainable, and interconnected future.
CORE Electric Cooperative announced that Jeff Baudier, CEO of CORE, has resigned his position at the cooperative to pursue a new opportunity in his home state of Louisiana, USA. “It has been an honor to serve CORE’s members these last three years,” said Jeff Baudier, adding “I am extremely proud of CORE’s dedicated employees, who I know will lead this organization into its exciting future as the premier electric utility in Colorado.” premier electric utility CORE Electric Cooperative thanks Mr. Baudier for his efforts guiding the company’s employees “CORE has been met with significant challenges over the last three years, and Jeff was the leader we needed to meet those challenges,” said Tim White, President of CORE’s Board of Directors, adding “We, as a board, feel he has set the organization up for success, and we wish him well.” CORE Electric Cooperative thanks Mr. Baudier for his efforts guiding the company’s employees on a variety of projects, including: Formation of a state-renowned clean energy and transition plan to position CORE as an independent electric utility, by forging new power supply agreements with partners, such as Invenergy. CORE’s first-time Long-Term Issuer Default Rating (IDR) of “AA-” with a Stable outlook from Fitch Ratings. “AA-” is in the highest public rating tier achieved for electric distribution cooperatives rated by Fitch Ratings. Their nationally recognized wildfire mitigation program, which protects members, employees and the distribution system in CORE’s service area. New member programs like COREV and CLEAN Power Choice, and the build out of 11 public electric vehicle chargers throughout their service area. CORE Board appoints Pam Feuerstein as Interim CEO The Board has appointed Chief Operating Officer (COO) Pam Feuerstein as Interim CEO. Pam has been with CORE for 13 years and has held her position as COO for more than nine years. She is a star leader within the organization and industry. Extensive Industry experience Pam has over 25 years of experience in power delivery for electric utilities and has been instrumental to develop CORE’s power supply transition and securing resources for CORE’s clean energy future. Pam currently serves as Board Chair and Executive Committee member of the Foundation for Douglas County Schools. In 2022, Pam also joined the board of RESPEC, a global major in geoscience, engineering, data and integrated technology solutions for major industry sectors. Pam also is a past honoree of the Denver Business Journal C-Suite Awards, which recognizes C-suite level executives who demonstrate vital leadership and business savvy while guiding their companies to success.
Lanner Electronics, a pioneer in network computing appliances and industrial AI computers, will officially unveil its latest innovation, the EAI-I233 and EAI-I251 industrial-grade Edge AI computers, at NVIDIA GTC 2025. Powered by the NVIDIA® Jetson AGX Orin™ system on module (SOM), these advanced platforms are designed to deliver low-latency AI inferencing capabilities at the edge for industries including retail, manufacturing, transportation, and smart city. EAI-I233: AI inference system The EAI-I233 features a compact design and is powered by the NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin SOM The EAI-I233 features a compact design and is powered by the NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin SOM, offering up to 64GB LPDDR5 memory and 2048 CUDA® cores for exceptional AI performance. With versatile connectivity options, including 1x GbE RJ45, 1x 10GbE RJ45, 1x 2.5GbE RJ45, 4x USB 3.2, 2x COM, and M.2 expansion slots for WiFi and 5G/LTE connectivity, this platform is ideal for deployment in space-constrained environments, such as retail stores, airports, branch offices, enabling real-time AI inferencing for video analytics applications. EAI-I251: Ruggedized AI Platform for Extreme Conditions The EAI-I251, designed for harsh environments with an operational range of -40°C to 70°C, is powered by the NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin SOM with 64GB LPDDR5 memory. Ideal for AI inference in autonomous systems, industrial visual inspection, and physical security, it features extensive I/O options, including 8x video-in (GMSL2), multiple LAN ports (1GbE, 10GbE, 2.5GbE with PoE+), USB 3.2, COM (optional CAN), DIO and M.2 slots for WiFi and 5G/LTE connectivity. This compact yet robust solution ensures seamless integration for edge AI applications. NVIDIA JetPack SDK 6.2 Support NVIDIA Metropolis stack for vision AI workloads, CUDA-X™ accelerated libraries, and robust development tools Seamlessly integrated with the NVIDIA JetPack™ SDK 6.2, both EAI-I251 and I233 empower developers with access to Jetson™ Linux, NVIDIA Metropolis stack for vision AI workloads, CUDA-X™ accelerated libraries, and robust development tools, accelerating the deployment of AI-driven in-vehicle video analytics. “With the NVIDIA Jetson platform, our latest edge AI computers redefine industrial AI performance, reliability, and connectivity,” said Spencer Chou, Senior Director of the Edge AI Division at Lanner Electronics. Advancements in AI and edge computing Chou added: “Introducing these innovations at NVIDIA GTC 2025 underscores our commitment to driving advancements in AI and edge computing for mission-critical applications.” The EAI-I233 and EAI-I251 will debut at Lanner's Booth #1908 during NVIDIA GTC 2025, Mar 17-21, at San Jose Convention Center. Visitors can experience live demonstrations and explore how these platforms enable real-time AI inferencing across industrial sectors.
Delta, a pioneer in power management and a provider of IoT-based smart green solutions, unveiled its broad spectrum of next-generation power and liquid cooling solutions at NVIDIA GTC 2025. These solutions are designed to bolster the performance and energy conservation in NVIDIA-enabled AI and HPC data centers, including the newly launched Power Capacitance Shelves and in-row 1.5MW liquid-to-liquid Coolant Distribution Units (CDU). NVIDIA Omniverse™ platform Delta’s AI-based Smart Solutions converge with NVIDIA Omniverse™ and NVIDIA Isaac Sim platforms The showcase also demonstrates how Delta’s AI-based Smart Manufacturing Solutions converge with NVIDIA Omniverse™ and NVIDIA Isaac Sim platforms to achieve seamless cyber-physical integration and enhance the productivity and flexibility of smart production processes in diverse manufacturing applications. Ping Cheng, Delta’s Chairman and CEO, said, “Delta strives to collaborate with our customers to provide smart and energy-efficient solutions capable of accelerating the development of the AI industry while fostering sustainability." Integrated with AI technologies Cheng added: "Our showcase at this year’s GTC demonstrates innovative power and cooling solutions for AI data centers, quite a few of which were designed with NVIDIA for their next-generation GPU architecture, as well as a smart manufacturing demo line integrated with AI technologies." "Moreover, our D-Bot cobot, power and cooling solutions for the NVIDIA MGX platform are also being featured. This comprehensive solutions portfolio for both cloud data centers and edge applications is a testament to Delta’s unique innovation prowess in the AI era.” Key highlights at the Delta booth #1023 at NVIDIA GTC 2025 AI-based Smart Manufacturing Demo Line Delta has leveraged its unique smart manufacturing expertise and system integration capabilities to develop five smart production scenarios of PC board assembly, which visitors will have the opportunity to interact with on-site. IIoT-based Line Manager enables remote control, autonomous exhibit line functions, and data analytics The AI-based Smart Manufacturing Demo Line features an ecosystem in which Delta’s D-Bot series Collaborative Robots (cobots), Omni® inserter, Integra® modular glue dispensing machine, DIATwin digital twin system, and IIoT-based Line Manager platform, collaborate along with NVIDIA Omniverse and Isaac Sim to enable cyber-physical production with virtual reality synchronization, virtual commissioning and product parameter input, smart production recipe generation and management, automated production line changeover, automated collision avoidance, and more. The IIoT-based Line Manager enables remote control, autonomous production line operations, and data analytics. By uploading product recipe parameters to Line Manager, manufacturers can quickly changeover between different product manufacturing processes while dynamically optimizing process parameters such as processing route and speed, achieving seamless automated mixed-model production. Power Solutions for AI and HPC Data Centers Delta is launching a new Power Capacitance Shelf at GTC. Designed to ensure a stable power supply for AI and cloud computing servers, this system boasts built-in lithium-ion capacitors (LIC), high power density and long hold-up time (5-second/15kW load) to perform fast charge/discharge so as to mitigate the GPU dynamic load reflections (AI server EDPP and idle mode transitions) to the AC electricity grid. In addition, the new 19-inch 1RU 66kW AC-DC Server Power Shelf offers industry-pioneering efficiency up to 97.5%. In traditional AI data centers, AI servers commonly occupy up to 3/4 of rack space, leaving limited room for power supply, backup power, and power capacitance systems. Delta’s New HVDC Server Power Solution Delta is also showcasing new parallel HVDC Modules for 800Vdc to 50/12Vdc power conversion Delta’s new HVDC server power solution, designed through collaboration with NVIDIA, helps IT managers solve that challenge by offering groundbreaking power supply capacities. The solution includes the newly-developed 72kW AC-DC Server Power Shelf to convert 400-480Vac from the transformer to 800Vdc with efficiency up to 98% while the new 90kW DC-DC Server Power Shelf converts 800Vdc to 50Vdc with efficiency as high as 98.5%. Lastly, Delta is also showcasing new parallel HVDC Modules for 800Vdc to 50/12Vdc power conversion and with power density up to 2,500W/inch3. Delta-Designed Rack for the NVIDIA MGX Platform The industry’s first ORV3 Inverter Power System for 2.5kVA/230Vac, and the new 2RU compact 22kW Battery Backup System to support 48Vdc systems with up to 60 seconds of backup time and surge load capability, are also featured. The Delta-designed rack for the NVIDIA MGX platform, offers a 1,400A busbar as well as 42RU manifold, is also exhibited along with key Delta solutions, such as management switches, server cooling solutions, 1RU inverter shelves, 1RU 55kW power shelves (3 phase), 72kW HVDC power shelves and 90kW DC-DC power shelves, 19’’ power capacitance systems, 2RU 22kW Battery Backup Power, and 4RU L2L CDUs. Liquid and Air Cooling Solutions for AI Data Centers and GPU Systems New rack fans capable of supporting other rack power architectures, including HVDC (400-800Vdc) The newly launched 1.5MW L2L (liquid-to-liquid) CDU, approved into the privileged NVIDIA RVL and AVL lists, is specifically designed to handle the thermal management challenges of multiple high-density racks, which can exceed 100kW capacity each. Delta’s liquid cooling solutions showcase also includes Cold Plate Loops, designed for the latest NVIDIA GPU/CPU to operate in conjunction with Delta’s 4RU L2L In-Rack CDUs for NVL72/36 as a complete rack scale cooling solution, as well as the powerful new 6RU in-rack CDU design with 200kW cooling capacity for next-generation chips. Also featured are cutting-edge air cooling options, including the new 3D Vapor Chamber boasting 1000W cooling capacity in a 4RU form factor, server fan achieving 20% performance increase versus prior models, and new rack fans capable of supporting different rack power architectures including HVDC (400-800Vdc). Passive Components for AI and HPC Data Centers Delta’s new High Density Power Chokes (dual/quad) support GPU operations under high current and high temperature (up to 150oC) conditions. For power and IT shelves operating in the high current (4000-8000A), high voltage (±400V), and high frequency (10-100MHz) conditions, the newly-launched Core-Shell Liquid Cooling Busbars offer power dissipation up to 400kW with ultra-low inductance and superior performance. Welcome to Delta’s booth #1023 at NVIDIA GTC 2025 to learn how Delta and NVIDIA collaborate to usher a new era of AI-based smart manufacturing and energy conservation in the AI realm.


Expert Commentary
While the technology sector was once considered the most desirable in terms of salary and job security, recent layoffs have exposed its vulnerability. Job security has always been a sought-after job benefit, and one career path that’s often overlooked is skilled trades. The skilled trades industry stands out as a resilient sector, offering the next generation of workers a promising path for growth and professional development through on-the-job experience and education. Significant talent gap With the retirement of Baby Boomers leading to a significant talent gap, current trade professionals are now more determined than ever to attract younger workers to the industry. Regrettably, many students in high school fail to see the value of pursuing a career in skilled trades. In a 2022 survey, only 16% of students noted they were likely to consider a career in the skilled trades. However, as other industries face a high level of uncertainty, the skilled trades offer stability and constant demand for services such as new construction, renovations, and climate change-resilient building improvements. The Benefit of Trade Education One of the major benefits of skilled trades education is its flexibility and room for career advancement The skilled trades industry presents young professionals with unique opportunities for hands-on learning and digital skill development. And as the next generation begins to explore higher education alternatives to gain valuable life skills, hands-on training in skilled trades becomes increasingly appealing. In trade education, learning happens directly from experiences in the field, complemented by classroom training, on-demand video sessions, and even virtual reality (VR) simulations. This approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to start their careers immediately, avoiding the burden of college debt. One of the major benefits of skilled trades education is its flexibility and room for career advancement. Unlike traditional four-year college programs, trade school education typically lasts around two years, making it accessible to individuals at different stages of their careers. Moreover, the skilled trades industry provides workers with continuous opportunities for education and specialization. Formal certifications or licensing requirements define career paths in the skilled trades, and workers can pursue additional certifications to open new avenues for advancement. Beyond Traditional Training Techniques To maintain its resilience, the skilled trades industry is embracing technology To maintain its resilience, the skilled trades industry is embracing technology, integrating tech-focused learning methods and digital platforms to streamline processes and increase efficiency. Gen Z is inherently tech-savvy, and incorporating new technologies in training and in the field will attract these younger generations to the industry. This can include implementing tech-focused learning methods, embracing gamification, or transitioning from physical code books to digital platforms to streamline processes, make work more efficient, and increase engagement on new tools coming onto the jobsite. While the skilled trades industry offers numerous opportunities for growth and professional development, it is essential to acknowledge that these professions are not without their risks. Enhancing safety training Skilled trade workers, particularly those in fields like construction, electrical work, and fire safety, are often exposed to serious fire, electrical, and related hazards on the job. Ensuring the safety of these workers is of paramount importance. One powerful solution to enhance safety training is the integration of digital learning technology One powerful solution to enhance safety training is the integration of digital learning technology, which is uniquely suited to provide deep immersion simulations. By incorporating virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) training modules, skilled workers can experience lifelike scenarios that simulate potential hazards in a controlled environment. This kind of training allows them to develop critical skills, practice emergency response procedures, and make informed decisions without facing real-life risks. By leveraging digital learning technology, the skilled trades industry can better equip its workers with the knowledge and experience needed to enhance job safety and minimize workplace accidents. The Bottom Line The skilled trades industry presents a promising future for the next generation of talent. It offers resilience in the face of economic fluctuations and provides abundant opportunities for growth and professional development through hands-on training. To attract a new generation to this industry, organizations must be willing to not only emphasize value, in terms of resiliency salary, to candidates, but also show that the industry is moving towards innovation just like any other profession. As the industry continues to embrace technology, such as digital learning, it will remain relevant and appealing to young, technologically adept individuals seeking rewarding and stable careers. And by showcasing the value and potential of skilled trades, we as skilled trades professionals can inspire more individuals to consider this path and take the first step toward a successful and fulfilling career.
Even during the era of big business, most residential electrical service companies tend to be on the smaller end with less than 20% employing more than 100 workers. And, like most small businesses, electrical contractors probably assume that they don’t need public relations and that their advertising efforts are enough to sustain them. But this is a common misconception. PR isn’t a luxury reserved for million-dollar companies and can be used to help progressively scale your business in the long run. Lead generation companies If you’re like most electrical contractors, you are using the marketing and advertising advice that many other home service companies have taken over the years and have confined your advertising into avenues such as direct mail, lead generation companies, truck wraps and a reliance on third-party referral websites. That is one reason why adding PR to your marketing budget is a necessity While these are all good options, the problem is that your competition is also using the same marketing techniques you are using and are probably only reaching the same set of potential customers. That is one reason why adding PR to your marketing budget is a necessity if you want to rise above your peers in your market. Residential electrical services If you were to do a quick Google search for electrical contractors in your community, chances are you’d find page after page of similar options. And, if you aren’t on the first page of that list, you aren’t making much of an impact. But, with the right PR partner, you can build your company’s reputation and recognition so that it becomes synonymous with good residential electrical services. A public relations expert can help you develop campaigns that show you as a thought leader in your market while helping you secure earned media in your local news and trade publications. A public relations expert can help you develop campaigns that show you as a thought leader These methods increase your visibility. Strong visibility not only helps you reach a wider audience, it inadvertently helps you move up spots in Google rankings. The more mentions your company gets on social media, in the news and on other online platforms, the better Google ranks your website. what is Earned media So what is earned media? That’s media that isn’t paid for or owned by your company and includes media interviews, customer reviews and organic mentions on social media. And, it’s important because it is by far the most trusted form of publicity available. Studies have shown that more than 90% of consumer trust earned media over paid-for advertising. Consumers have become savvy to commercials and no longer uses ads as their main method of researching a potential service partner. But, it’s getting this earned media that can prove tricky for most electrical contractors. Most of you probably don’t know any journalists and you certainly don’t have time with your busy schedule to cultivate relationships with the media. Potential service partner A good PR expert can pitch your expertise and story ideas surrounding your company That’s where a PR agency can help. Many of them are former reporters or know the business well enough to have built relationships with many media outlets. A good PR expert can pitch your expertise and story ideas surrounding your company to media both locally and in trade publications. It’s also possible that you haven’t considered the need to consistently read and respond to your customers’ reviews online. This is important because studies have shown that more than 92% of consumers say they read online reviews before they purchase a product or hire a service provider. Social media game Since you do have a business to run, it may be difficult to carve out enough time to reply to these reviews – both the good and bad ones – in a way that is both effective and conciliatory. But, a PR partner does have the time and the experience to do this for you. But, a PR partner does have the time and the experience to do this for you Finally, PR helps you stay on top of your social media game. It’s not enough to simply have a company Facebook or LinkedIn page – you have to consistently post content and engage your followers. Coming up with something new to post is a challenge when you’re trying to schedule house calls, pay bills and hire quality electricians. Attracting new customers Once you have developed a PR strategy that helps you to promote your brand, increase your visibility and develop you and your company as the market leaders in your community, you’ll begin to notice that your brand is reaching a wider audience. And, it’s a proactive strategy that will help you influence the market in your favor. These positive messages help you grab the attention of your target audience and connect with them on a personal level. PR is about telling a good story to build relationships and it’s these relationships that will help you grow beyond that of your competitors. Heather Ripley is founder and CEO of Ripley PR, an elite, global public relations agency specializing in skilled trades, B2B tech and franchising. Ripley PR has been recognized by Entrepreneur Magazine as a Top Franchise PR Agency five years in a row and was named to Forbes’ America’s Best PR Agencies for 2021. She is the author of ‘NEXT LEVEL NOW: PR Secrets to Drive Explosive Growth for your Home Service Business.’
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.
RO Capital Partners (“ROCP”), the RO Group’s venture capital arm, announces that its portfolio company, measurable.energy, has installed its smart power sockets in the office of PKF Francis Clark in Bristol. PKF Francis Clark is an award-winning firm of chartered accountants and business advisers. measurable.energy is a UK tech company that designs and manufactures smart, machine-learning-enabled power sockets that will reduce the energy costs of PKF Francis Clark’s Bristol office by more than 20%. PKF Francis Clark is located at 90 Victoria Street in that city, an office building comprising 24,377 sq. ft. of high-quality office accommodation across four storeys. Small Power energy use Up to 40% of total electricity usage in most commercial office buildings can be attributed to this type measurable.energy’s solution eliminates ‘Small Power’ waste, which is energy not required by devices that are plugged in or directly wired; such as printers, AV equipment, chilled and hot water taps, monitors, and heaters, and which are often left fully on or in standby mode overnight. Up to 40% of total electricity usage in most commercial office buildings can be attributed to this type of ‘Small Power’ energy use. Edward Rowlandson, Group Managing Director, the RO, said: "We are very pleased to have installed measurable.energy’s technology in our flagship Bristol property for a key tenant, PKF Francis Clark. We acquired 90 Victoria Street in Bristol in April 2023, and ROCP’s investment into Reading-based measurable.energy was also made early in 2023." PKF Francis Clark’s values Rowlandson added: “That investment was driven by the need to reduce energy, and we are delighted that PKF Francis Clark’s values align with our own, and that of measurable.energy. We look forward to seeing their simple solution for office occupiers who are under pressure to take action, cut energy costs, and reduce emissions installed in more properties around the country, as the business looks to scale.” CEO and Co-Founder of measurable.energy, Dan Williams said: “My electricity-saving message to companies is to not be fooled by the small size of certain devices. A very high percentage of an office occupier’s electricity bill hides in the shadows, among small gadgets and forgotten chargers." Power usage patterns Williams added:"This silent power drain adds up faster than tenants think, and without ever realizing it. Powered by machine learning, our plug sockets will automatically identify and eliminate ‘Small Power’ waste for PKF Francis Clark, turning every appliance in their Bristol office into a cost-saving superhero.” Jim Solomon, Regional Facilities Manager at PKF Francis Clark concluded: “Since deploying measurable. energy's AI-powered sockets, we have not only reduced our office's energy consumption of the devices using the sockets by 38%, but have also gained invaluable insights into our power usage patterns. This technology has been instrumental in our efforts to operate more sustainably and efficiently.”
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.

