WCA May/July 2020

Contents

Regulars

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Industry News 22 行业新闻 26 Technology News 49 技术与产品 33 Fasteners ASIA 54 India Insight 54 印度透视 56 Telecom News 58 通信新闻 60 From the Americas 64 来自美国的消息 72 Editorial Index 72 通讯目录 72 Advertisers Index 72 广告索引

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Technical Articles

67 Fibre Optic Strain Gauge Using Pseudorandom Code Interrogation

70 使用伪随机码询问的光纤 应变仪

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Wire & Cable ASIA – May/July 2020

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Getting Technical - Deployed terrestrial optical cables with ultra-low loss fibres Features - wire China 2020 Guangzhou Julang 2020 Next Issue

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Image: Compression spring courtesy of Lesjöfors AB

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Wire & Cable ASIA – May/July 2020

Editor ( 编辑 ): ............................................... David Bell Features Editor – USA ( 专栏编辑 – 美国 ): .................................... Gill Watson Editorial Assistant ( 助理文字编辑 ): ............................... Christian Bradley Design/Production ( 设计/制作 ): ............ Julie Tomlin Production ( 制作 ): .................................... Lisa Wright Translation ( 翻译经理 ): ............... TTC wetranslate Ltd Linda Li Advertising/Marketing : ......................... Jason Smith ( 广告/营销 ): UK, ROW, USA, Canada Giuliana Benedetto Italy Linda Li 中国 Advertisement Coordinator ( 广告联络人 ): .............................................. Liz Hughes Accounts Manager ( 财务经理 ): ................. Karen Low Subscriptions ( 订阅) .............................Karen Low Publisher ( 发行人 ): ........................... Caroline Sullens Founder ( 创办人 ): ................................... John C Hogg Europe ( 欧洲 ) Advertising/Marketing & Editorial ( 广告, 营销及编辑部 ) 46 Holly Walk, Leamington Spa Warwickshire CV32 4HY, UK Tel ( 电话 ): ................... +44 1926 334137 Fax ( 传真 ): .................. +44 1926 314755 Email ( 电子邮址 ): ....... wca@intras.co.uk Website ( 网站 ): ........... www.read-wca.com This publication and its full contents of layout, text, images, and graphics is copyright protected. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording or any other storage or retrieval system without the publisher’s written permission. The publisher, owners, agents, printers, editors and contributors cannot be held responsible for and hereby exclude all liability whatsoever for errors, omissions or the accuracy and claims printed or inferred in the editorial or advertisements published in this, previous or subsequent editions or for any damages, costs or losses caused thereby. Wire & Cable ASIA reserves the right to edit, reword and subedit all editorial submissions in accordance with editorial policy. Wire & Cable ASIA expressed graphically or by text is a registered name and style trademark of Intras Ltd, UK. All matters relating to this Disclaimer are governed by the laws of England. 《亚洲线缆》杂志所有图文受版权保护。未经书面授权 不得全部或部分以任何方式转载。出版商、编写者、代 理商、印刷商及投稿者对在本期、以前、以及将来刊登 的稿件或广告的准确性和提出的索赔不承担责任。英国 Intras Ltd 公司拥有《亚洲线缆》 ( Wire & Cable ASIA ) 图像和文字注册商标。 Wire & Cable ASIA is published six times a year. It is distributed throughout North and South-east Asia to registered readers in wire, cable and wire component producer and consumer industries. Annual subscriptions are available from just US$80. 《亚洲线缆》一年出版六期，面向整个北亚、东南亚地 区的电线、电缆和线材制品的生产商和用户发行。订阅 一年：欧元 140 ；英镑 120 ; 美元 195 。 USA ( 美国 ) Editorial ( 广告/营销 ) Intras USA – Doug Zirkle Danbury Corporate Center, 107 Mill Plain Road, Danbury, CT 06811, USA Tel ( 电话 ): ................... +1 203 794 0444 Email ( 电子邮址 ): ....... doug@intras.co.uk

© Intras Ltd ISSN 0218-3277

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Wire & Cable ASIA – May/July 2020

Encouraging signs. . .

Photo credit: bigstockphoto.com “Floral display by Shanghai Museum of Chinese Art” • Photographer: BackyardProductions Messe Düsseldorf has confirmed the new dates for wire 2020, rescheduled from March to 7 th to 11 th December at the Fairgrounds in Düsseldorf, Germany. See page 14 for more details. It is also good to see Indian company Supermac honoured in the machinery manufacturing sector at the ET Now Business Leader of the Year 2020 awards in Mumbai, India. For the full story turn to page 21. Shaoguan Iron & Steel, part of the Baosteel Group – the largest steel producer in China and the second largest in the world – has New faces and completed orders are an encouraging sign from companies in this latest issue of Wire & Cable ASIA . AIC (Automazioni Industriali Capitanio) has commissioned a major rolling mill automation upgrade project at a plant in Manitoba, Canada. The project confirms the cooperation between AIC and Gerdau group, sealed after the main rolling mill upgrade project was carried out at a plant in Jackson, Tennessee, USA, as well as several other projects at Gerdau facilities. Full details of this can be found on page 8.

reaffirmed its association with Friedrich Kocks. The German company has been chosen to implement a Kocks RSB in the existing bar mill at Shaoguan’s site in Guangdong province, China. More details on page 26.

David Bell Editor

When and where

January 2021 25-28 January: MACH – trade exhibition – Birmingham, UK Organisers : MTA (Manufacturing Technologies Association) Email : mach@mta.org.uk Website : www. machexhibition.com

December 2020 7-11 December: wire 2020 – trade exhibition – Düsseldorf, Germany Organisers : Messe Düsseldorf GmbH Email : wire@ messe-duesseldorf.de Website : www.wire.de

October 2020 11-14 October: IWCS – virtual symposium – Organisers : IWCS Tel : +1 717 993 9500 Website : www.iwcs.org

September 2020 23–26 September: wire China –

trade exhibition – Shanghai, China Organisers : SECRI and Messe Düsseldorf (Shanghai) Email : shanghai@mdc.com.cn Website : www.wirechina.net

As with all shows, and with the continuing coronavirus pandemic, please check to ensure the event is going ahead.

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Industry news

Major rolling mill automation upgrade project at Gerdau ❍ AIC has assisted Gerdau with its production automation

both operating expenses and the loss of time, thanks to the replacement of obsolete control systems and the installation of new drives. The commissioning was completed within the previously agreed time frame, and took only two weeks. Production started at full capacity from day one. AIC is a global system integrator providing advanced and tailored automation and robotic solutions for the steel industry, with the aim to improve efficiency, competitiveness and safety of production processes. Gerdau is a major supplier of long steel in the Americas. Its North American business divisions manufacture steel products for the agricultural, automotive, civil construction, energy, industrial and mining markets. It operates ten mills in the USA and three in Canada. The mills utilise efficient and clean production practices, including the use of electric arc furnace (EAF) technology, and the company’s recycling practices transform millions of tons of scrap metal into steel products each year. Automazioni Industriali Capitanio Srl www.aicnet.it Gerdau SA www2.gerdau.com

AIC (Automazioni Industriali Capitanio) has successfully commissioned a major rolling mill automation upgrade project at a plant in Selkirk, in Manitoba, Canada. The project confirms the cooperation between AIC and Gerdau group, sealed after the main rolling mill upgrade project was carried out at a plant in Jackson, Tennessee, USA, as well as several other projects at Gerdau facilities. The scope of the project included the complete rolling mill automation, from the reheating furnace exit to the cooling bed, including the rougher area, pendulum shear, continuous mill composed of 14 stands and two start/stop shears, intermediate and dividing shears, a complete cooling bed entry conveyor, braking slide and cooling bed. Strategic motor drives were also replaced at the site, together with the automation upgrade, to increase the production capacity of the mill. The first part of the upgrade has been commissioned and the second part is scheduled for the summer 2020 outage. As part of the solution, the obsolete Automax PLC system at the site (including rolling mill control, descaler, water system and auxiliaries based on Automax, SLC500 and PLC5 from AB) was replaced with a new AB CLX PLC and auxiliary DC drives of ABB brand, and AC drives from AB. The main upgrade has improved performance and reduced

Graphics bigstockphoto.com Artist Eky Studio

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Industry news

FTTH APAC Conference 2020 postponed CRU Events has announced the postponement of the FTTH APAC Conference 2020, due to the spread of COVID-19. The event had been scheduled to take place from 15 to 17 June in Hanoi, Vietnam. New dates are yet to be announced. As the health and well-being of members, clients and staff is the priority, CRU and the FTTH Council Asia-Pacific will continue to monitor the situation and to take advice from the World Health Organization and relevant governments. CRU Events www.crugroup.com FRL named exclusive distributor for Everflon fluoropolymers Fluoropolymer Resources LLC (FRL), a recycler of melt fluoropolymers, has announced an agreement to become the exclusive distribution partner of Everflon Polymer Co’s virgin ETFE and FEP products in the Americas and Europe. Everflon Polymer Co, part of the C&F group, is a manufacturer of high-performance fluoropolymer products in China. Available in a wide array of melt flow ranges, Everflon ETFE and FEP can be supplied to suit most applications. Robust processes and rigorous testing ensure the consistency and quality expected from a premium virgin fluoropolymer. As with all FRL offerings, technical assistance and process support is provided on the customer’s production line. “From the beginning, our mission has been to provide cost savings to our customers without sacrificing product or process performance,” said Kevin Buchanan, president of Fluoropolymer Resources. Mr Buchanan added “We are incredibly excited to be able to diversify our product portfolio and introduce a new virgin alternative that fits this same core value proposition.” Everflon ETFE and FEP products are stocked and distributed from FRL’s facility in North Windham, Connecticut, USA, and are available directly through FRL in the USA as well as from distribution partners in Europe. Fluoropolymer Resources, LLC www.frlusa.com

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Industry news

IWMA Young Person Award 2020

expected at his level; and enthusiasm for his own professional development. Robert Douglass, Cimteq’s operations director, explained why Mr Owens was a worthy winner: “Whilst Alun’s programming skills are unquestionably of a high standard, it’s the way in which he applies himself that makes him such an impressive colleague. He’s only a couple of years into his career following his BSc in computer gaming and programming skills at Glyndwr University and yet he has already developed an innate understanding of how to match software functionality to real-world business requirements. Winning this award is a great achievement for Alun. His hard work and dedication at Cimteq is very much appreciated.” IWMA www.iwma.org Cimteq Ltd www.cimteq.com

As part of its 50 th anniversary this year, the IWMA is celebrating its Wire & Cable Industry Young Person of the Year Award. Alun Owens, one of the newest support team leads at Cimteq, has been announced as the award winner. The cable industry, like many other manufacturing industries, has found it difficult to recruit staff at the skill levels needed to build the smart factories of the future. The new awards programme aims to reflect the efforts of the next generation of talent. Mr Owens was announced as the winner at the IWMA Industry Lunch in February. He will benefit from a prize of £500 as well as having his name and that of Cimteq promoted to hundreds of IWMA member com- panies around the world. As well as being under the age of 30 and being with his company for at

least a period of 12 months, Mr Owens needed to display a number of qualities to qualify: a significant and sustained contribution to his organisation and work colleagues; a commitment to company objectives above and beyond that normally ❍ (From left) Friedrich Kehrer of Messe Düsseldorf, comedian Ted Robbins, award winner Alun Owens, and IWMA chairman Martin Van Der Zwan

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Industry news

Ducab launches new metals subsidiary

It will have the capacity to design solutions that will be manufactured in its existing copper rod and aluminium factories, both of which are based in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Dr Ahmad Bin Hassan Al Shaikh, chairman of Ducab, commented, “The launch of DMB aligns with the growth of the metals segment within Ducab and gives us the opportunity to focus a dedicated team on the needs of our metal customers.” In 2019, the company increased its copper capacity by 30 per cent to 175,000 tonnes; along with its 50,000 tonnes of aluminium, this will allow the company to expand the number of markets it serves. Mohamed Al Ahmedi, the newly appointed general manager of DMB, added, “As a stand-alone business dedicated to this field, the creation of DMB will allow us to further improve the service of our clients whilst opening new opportunities to expand our reach.

Ducab, one of the UAE’s largest manufacturing businesses, is con- solidating its metal operations into a new subsidiary. DMB (Ducab Metals Business) is a dedicated business unit within the Ducab group of companies supplying “made in UAE” copper and aluminium solutions. Ducab Aluminium Company (DAC) and Ducab Copper Rod Plant are included under the DMB umbrella. DMB exports 75 per cent of its production to more than 35 countries in the wider Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas. In 2019, Ducab’s copper and aluminium business generated over 2 billion UAE dirhams in revenue. As a stand-alone com pany within Ducab Group and the only company in the region to provide both copper and aluminium solutions, DMB will be focused on serving the needs of all its customers – principally companies in the electrical manufacturing industry.

“By further developing our capacity for metals solutions and services, DMB can contribute to the UAE’s flourishing industrial supply chain and contribute to the UAE’s strategy to champion industrial investments.” DMB www.dmb.ae ❍ HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum visits DMB’s stand at a trade event

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Industry news

New VP of sales and marketing at NDC Mr Perry commented, “I am honoured to join the NDC team and help to build on a solid foundation developed over the years. This is an exciting and outstanding opportunity to play an important role in accelerating the company’s growth and further deepening our customer relationships and worldwide market position.”

NDC Technologies, a provider of pro- ductivity-enhancing measurement and control solutions, has announced that veteran sales leader John Perry has joined the company as vice president of sales and marketing. In this role, Mr Perry will be responsible for leading NDC’s global sales organisation, executing the company’s go-to-market strategy and accelerating pipeline growth across the company’s key vertical markets. “John brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our executive leadership team and we are looking forward to him playing a key role in driving our marketing and sales growth activities,” said Marti Nyman, president of NDC Technologies. “John’s sales leadership and strong track record of selling across global markets will be a valuable asset to our company’s plans for accelerating growth and expanding our market presence.”

Mr Perry takes over from Randy Luffman, who served as NDC’s vice president of sales and marketing and is retiring after being with the company since 2012. Mr Perry has more than 18 years of sales and leadership experience in the technology sector. He joins NDC from Emerson Electric, where he was the Americas regional leader responsible for directing the sales organisation and driving annual revenue growth for the company’s automation and controls business. While there, his team focused on the sales of Emerson’s PLC controls, IIoT-enabled hardware

❍ John Perry

and cloud-computing platform, and industrial communication products within the power generation market. He has also held sales and sales leadership positions at GE, Danaher, Johnson Controls and York

International Corporation. NDC Technologies Inc www.ndc.com

December date for wire 2020

wire 2020 – the world’s leading international trade fair for the wire and cable industry – will now take place from 7 to 11 December 2020 at Düsseldorf Fairgrounds. This is Messe Düsseldorf’s timely response to the postponement of the exhibition announced at the end of February. It was agreed in consultation with all partners involved in order to counteract the increasingly dynamic developments regarding the spread of coronavirus. “It is very important for us to inform you of this new date as soon as possible in order to ensure planning security for the entire industry and its partners,” said Wolfram Diener, managing director of Messe Düsseldorf GmbH. “Our customers and partners can trust us to act calmly and responsibly even in difficult situations.” Existing contracts with Messe Düsseldorf remain valid for the new date; visitor tickets already purchased also remain valid. 2,600 exhibitors in 15 halls are expected to present their latest machinery and equipment for wire and tube production, processing and finishing, end products, products and services. Messe Düsseldorf GmbH www.wire.de

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Industry news

Vandor Corporation, the parent company of Reel Options, has added 50,000 ft 2 of manufacturing and warehouse space to its plastics facility in Richmond, Indiana, USA, bringing the total to 175,000 ft 2 . The expansion will not only consolidate operations and improve productivity, but will also make room for more injection moulding machines on top of the existing fifty. Vandor Corporation manufactures products for a variety of industries and has a total of four facilities in the USA. The plastics division in Richmond includes Reel Options and Enviromold Plastics. It provides custom plastic injection moulding, and specialises in light- and medium-duty reel assemblies for the wire and cable industries, including fibre optics, and brake-assisted boxed reels. Vandor has also announced that Vandor expands

Chris Nichols has joined Reel Options as national account manager. “With his 22 years’ background in plastics tool engineering as an operational and technical problem solver, Chris is in a perfect place to help existing and new customers improve on their wire and cable packaging needs,” ❍ A view of the warehouse expansion

stated Gerald Davis, president of Vandor Corp. Vandor Corporation www.vandorcorp.com Reel Options www.reeloptions.com

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Industry news

Top position in measuring, control, sorting and inspection systems

WAI Operations Summit & Wire Expo 2020 cancelled The Wire Association International (WAI) has announced that its board of directors has cancelled the WAI Operations Summit & Wire Expo 2020 due to the uncertain trajectory and effect of the COVID-19 pandemic. The event was originally scheduled for 3-4 June at the Mohegan Sun Resort Casino, Uncasville, Connecticut, USA. The suspension of the event had previously been announced in March, pending further investigation of the availability of alternate dates and the viability of rescheduling later this year. However, after full consideration, and following recommendations by WAI’s exhibition planning committee, the directors made the difficult but necessary decision to cancel the event. Some elements of WAI’s 90 th Annual Convention, including the presentation of the WAI Mordica Memorial, Donnellan Memorial, and President’s Awards, will take place in 2020, likely at a WAI Chapter event. Commenting on the decision, WAI president and exhibition planning committee member Jan Sørige said, “I am confident in our decision. Our priority is the health and safety of WAI’s community. As of today, we shift focus to Interwire 2021 in Atlanta. “WAI’s staff and committee members are fully engaged to ensure that Interwire is a success. We extend thanks to WAI’s loyal exhibitor base, its sponsors and speakers, and look forward to a productive show in 2021.” Interwire – the long-running trade event for wire and cable in the Americas – will in 2021 celebrate 40 years since its founding. It is scheduled for 10-13 May, 2021, at the Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Georgia, USA, where it originated in 1981. Wire Expo exhibitors are being offered refunds, or the option to transfer booth payments for Expo to their balance due for Interwire. The Wire Association International, Inc www.wirenet.org

❍ The Sikora headquarters in Bremen, Germany Sikora AG, a manufacturer and supplier of measuring, control, inspection and sorting technology, has been listed as “global market leader – future champion 2020”, based on the “global market leader index” of the Henri B Meier Entrepreneur School of the University of St Gallen and the Academy of German Global Market Leaders (ADWM). The company has already been on the list of global market leaders since 2016. CEO Dr Christian Frank commented, “We are delighted to receive this award as it cannot be taken for granted. To be rated among the global market leaders confirms the course our company is taking. The development of future-oriented technologies, the diversification into new markets, our international network and our long-standing experience create the foundation for successful growth.” Dr Frank also thanked all Sikora employees: “The award is an excellent motivation to continue and further expand our commitment.” The annually updated list of the “global market leaders – future champions” in Germany is based on an objective and transparent selection process. According to the index, global market leaders are worldwide-active, successful companies with mostly leading technologies and under family management. They show the largest or second largest market share in their segment. Their annual turnover is between 5 and 50 million euros, of which at least 40 per cent has been generated abroad. “Future champions” are also active on at least three continents. All of these criteria were fulfilled by Sikora. The technology company was founded in 1973 by Harald Sikora, after whom it is named. As a manufacturer and supplier of measuring and control technology for the wire and cable, hose and tube, sheets, optical fibre, metals and plastics industries, the company has 14 international offices and more than 30 regional representatives. The measuring and control systems are exclusively made at the headquarters in Bremen, Germany. Sikora AG www.sikora.net

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Industry news

www.candorsweden.com • Electrolytic plating • Candojet hot water cleaning • Electrolytic & Ultrasonic degreasing • Welding wire cleaning and copper coating • Pickling & phosphating

Multiwire drawing: fast, precise and efficient

Welding wire copper coating

❍ MMH 112 + RM 202 type multiwire drawing line

Multi wire cleaning plant

Maschinenfabrik Niehoff has nearly 70 years of experience in the design and operation of wire drawing machines for non-ferrous metal wires, and is a pioneer of the multiwire drawing technology. One of the company’s recent developments is the MMH 112 + RM 202 + S 632 type multiwire drawing line, designed for copper and aluminium wire. Its design, with a soft wire path and sophisticated control technology, enables the system to be operated reliably at speeds of up to 40m/s, increasing production output while consuming less energy in relation to the production volume. Based on a modular principle, the MMH 112 multiwire drawing machine can be built with one or two levels, and in three different lengths for a maximum of 21, 25 or 31 drafts, according to the specific task, to draw wire (Cu hard) from 2 to 0.2mm diameter in 21 drafts. It is equipped with more sensors than previous MMH machines so that the Niehoff digitisation concept can be used to its full extent. The motor and drive data, production speed, temperature, humidity and flow rate of the gear oil, as well as various properties of the drawing emulsion, are recorded and can be used via the Niehoff App. The new RM 202 multiwire resistance annealer also contributes to the energy-saving operation. It uses a two/three-zone system with wire reheating, expressed in optimum wire drying with economical use of energy. A new annealing power supply reduces energy losses by up to 10 per cent. The optimized wire movement is controlled by a random generator, which has the effect that the wear on the contact tubes is more evenly spread, resulting in a longer life of the tubes. A new changing system with quick-clamping mechanism makes it easier to replace worn contact tubes, and accessibility has been improved for simpler maintenance. The complete electrical equipment and the electronics of the dynamic single-spooler S 632 are housed in the machine, and the spool shaft is connected with a direct drive. Optionally, the machine can be delivered mounted on a base plate, so that the installation does not require a special foundation and the machine can be moved quickly, if necessary. Wires drawn on MMH lines such as the MMH 112 show highly homogeneous characteristics and narrow tolerance properties along their entire length, for demanding specifications and processing requirements. The wires can be processed to multiwire bundles and are suited to final applications or further processing into high-quality strands, ropes or braids. Maschinenfabrik Niehoff GmbH & Co KG www.niehoff.de

Ultrasonic & Electrolytic

CANDOR Sweden AB Tel: +46 11 21 75 00 Fax: +46 11 12 63 12 Email: info@candorsweden.com

Supermac Scholz CCV 132 KV Line

Supermac specialises in the following areas: · State-of-the-art CCV Line with Scholz Vulcanisation system for Power Cables up to 132 KV XLPE and 33 KV for Rubber · Proven Triple Extrusion Line for SIOPLAS (XLPE) cables · High-speed Insulation Line and Sheathing Line for House Wiring & Control Cables and medical equipment sector · High output and best in class Insulation Line and Sheathing Line for Power Cables · HCV Rubber insulation and sheathing line · Hybrid and composite CCV lines for both XLPE and Rubber · Rubicon make Rubber extruders for Insulation and sheathing materials · Silicone extrusion lines with infrared vulcanisation system · Extruders for variety of applications – up to 175 mm · Cross-Head Single/Dual/Triple · Haul-Off Caterpillar · Capstan · Take-up and pay-off of all types and sizes and as per requirement above 4.5 meters and 40 MT

www.supermacindia.com

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UNIT-I : PlotNo-2,Sector-6, IMTManesar, GurgaonHaryana, INDIA Ph.:+91-0124-4690500 Fax:+91-0124-4690501 E-mail: jasvinder@supermacindia.com vkohli@supermacindia.com

IndustrialArea Phase-1,New

UNIT-II : PlotNo.18-19, Sector-2A, IMT Manesar, Gurgaon,Haryana, INDIA

Delhi-110028, INDIA Ph.:+91-11-45574317 E-mail: office@supermacindia.com

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Industry news

Davis-Standard appoints new executive vice president

❍ Zachary Ament Davis-Standard has announced that Zachary Ament has been promoted to executive vice president, with effect from 6 March. He will replace long-time Davis-Standard employee and team leader Ernie Plasse, who is retiring. Mr Ament has been with Davis-Standard for more than seven years, most recently serving as vice president of business development. In that role, he has been involved in the development and tactical execution of the company’s organisational strategy, including mergers, acquisitions and strategic agreements, positioning him well to assume Mr Plasse’s role. “Ernie’s leadership, industry knowledge and vast experience will be greatly missed,” said Jim Murphy, Davis-Standard’s president and CEO. “He’s had an extraordinary 46-year career at Davis-Standard. His humility and work ethic set an excellent example for our entire team at Davis-Standard, and we wish him all the best in retirement.” Mr Murphy added, “Zachary will do an outstanding job in this role and has been working alongside Ernie to ensure a smooth transition. We look forward to his perspective and leadership as we continue our commitment to outstanding customer service.” Mr Plasse began his career as a stockroom clerk at Sterling Blow Molding, (a Davis-Standard brand) in 1973, and assumed roles of greater responsibility in the following years, eventually becoming the vice president of manufacturing at Sterling. He relocated to Davis-Standard’s headquarters in 1994, and became executive vice president – aftermarket in 2013. Davis-Standard, headquartered in Pawcatuck, Connecticut, USA, designs, develops and distributes extrusion and converting technology. Its systems encompass more than ten product lines to support manufacturing applications and customers within major industries, including agriculture, automotive, construction, healthcare, energy, electronics, and food and beverage packaging. Davis-Standard, LLC www.davis-standard.com

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Industry news

Supermac awarded business leader award

Supermac Industries, a global solutions provider in extrusion and process technology, has been presented with the ET Now Business Leader of the Year 2020 award in the machinery manufacturing sector. The awards ceremony was held at Taj Lands End in Mumbai, India, in February. The award was received by Supermac managing director Jasvinder Singh and director Vivek Kohli. Supermac Industries (India) Ltd www.supermacindia.com ❍ Managing director Jasvinder Singh (with framed certificate) and director Vivek Kohli (holding the award)

Metalube appoints commercial manager

IWG sells Trenton facility

International Wire Group, Inc (IWG), a manufacturer of copper wire products for a range of industries such as aerospace, defence and energy, has completed the sale of its business unit IWG High Performance Conductors, Inc (HPC) to Teleflex Medical OEM LLC. HPC (Trenton, Georgia, USA) produces highly engineered, minimally invasive medical solutions, which will expand Teleflex’s portfolio of medical technologies. Following the transaction, IWG will continue to focus on its core product offerings through its Bare Wire Division (BWD) and its Engineered Products Division, based in Camden, New York, in addition to the plated copper wire products offered by its affiliate High Performance Conductors LLC, based in Inman, South Carolina. “We are very pleased to have found this ideal new home for the medical devices business with Teleflex and are sure the Trenton associates’ capabilities will be an asset to their team,” said IWG president and chief executive officer Greg Smith. “This sale enables IWG to focus on continued growth in our core North American and European businesses.” International Wire Group, Inc www.internationalwiregroup.com

❍ Matt Buffin

performance chain oils division as well as running Bishopdale’s own label company, United Oil Products (UOP). Commercial director Douglas Hunt said, “Matt is incredibly capable and knowledgeable, and I am thrilled to promote him as my number two in the commercial team. We have big plans for the business and Matt is the ideal man to help us achieve them.” Metalube Ltd www.metalube.co.uk

Lubricant manufacturer Metalube Ltd, part of the Bishopdale Group, has promoted Matt Buffin to commercial manager. He is now managing a team of global product managers responsible for overseeing the company’s sales worldwide. Mr Buffin has been with Metalube for two years as a global product manager, developing international business for the company’s high-

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行业新闻

m 合金线团队在车间的成员

为 Nippon Steel 在日本供 应首个 Consteel 电弧炉

Tenova 是 Techint 集团旗下的一家公司， 致力于为金属业和采矿业提供解决方 案，该公司获得了一份为 Nippon Steel Corporation 供应 Consteel ® EAF （电弧 炉）的合同。 这一新的 Consteel EAF 将是 Nippon Steel 集团在日本的首个 EAF ，将安装在 其 Hirohata 工厂。 计划在 2022 财年的上半年开始投入生 产。

Consteel 专有技术对金属装料进行持续 加热并其注入 EAF 中，同时控制气体排 放。 Tenova 为金属业和采矿业提供可持续解 决方案。 Tenova 在五大洲的 19 个国家和 地区拥有员工队伍，该公司致力于开发 技术并提供服务，旨在帮助企业节约能 源、减少环境影响和改善工作条件。 Tenova SpA www.tenova.com

“有了这个新装置， Hirohata 工厂 每 年 将 减 少 约 4 0 万 吨 二 氧 化 碳 排 放，” Tenova 电弧炉和钢包炉销售总监 Mario Marcozzi 说。 “此外，该项目还巩固了 Tenova 在亚洲 重要市场的地位。” Tenova 的 Consteel EAF 在全球有超过 75 个参照 EAF ，据称，与其他 EAF 技术相 比，该 EAF 提供高质量的炼钢标准以及 环保型的炼钢工艺。

Graphics bigstockphoto.com Artist Eky Studio

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行业新闻

新任 CEO 任命壮大 Cimteq 执行委员会队伍 客户系统集成以及质量保证 方面的工作经验。 Latacz 的 分析和调查技能将被运用于 电缆和电线制造环境领域。 在解释她为何选择在 Cimteq 发展她的职业生涯时，她 说：“我的支持岗位背景让 我对客户需求有了深入的了 解，也让我能在不同利益相 关者之间进行有效的沟通。 我想将这些技能应用到快节 奏的商业环境中，一定会竭 尽全力开发并交付定制产品 来满足客户需求。最重要的 是，我期待最具挑战性的问题和需要深 入研究代码的工作。” Cimteq Ltd www.cimteq.com

Cimteq 任命了 Mike Braddock 担任首席 执行官，随着该公司开启未来 10 年的宏 伟发展计划，这标志着，该公司开启了 历史新篇章。 就 在 任 命 B r a d d o c k 的 1 2 个 月 前， Foresight Regional Investment Fund 刚刚投资了 250 万英镑，该公司已 加速发展战略,其员工人数已增加 65% 。 公司创始人 Ali Shehab 将与 Braddock 紧 密配合，在他担任总裁期间共同为公司 制定总体战略方向。 Amanda Shehab 将继续以董事身份监督内部运营，并 与其他执行董事会成员 Rob Douglass (运营董事)和 Deborah Jones (财务董 事)开展合作。 Shehab 欢迎 Braddock 加入 Cimteq 董事 会，他评论说：“在 Cimteq ，我们有非 常宏伟的抱负。 Mike 的总体目标是建立 在战略、使命、愿景和价值观这些基石 之上的发展，正是这些基石，让 Cimteq 成为近 20 年来备受青睐的电缆软件制造 商。 Mike 正在加入一个志向远大的团 队，我丝毫不怀疑他之前在持续改进和 变革方面的经验和领导力，他是我们公 司极为宝贵的资源。” Cimteq 还宣布了任命 Anna Latacz 担任 应用程序支持开发人员。 Latacz 将担 任 Cimteq 客户的一线支持，重点关注 CableBuilder 和 CableMES 的定制。她 的新岗位依赖于其在技术支持、产品与 Davis-Standard 宣布将 Zachary Ame n t 晋 升 为 执 行 副 总 裁 ， 于 3 月 6 日 生 效 。 他 将 替 代 Davis-Standard 即将退休的长期雇 员兼团队领导 Ernie Plasse 。 Ament 在 Davis-Standard 工作了 7 年以上，近期担任业务发展副总 裁一职。在该职位，他参与了公 司组织战略的制定和战术执行， 包括兼并、收购和战略协议，这 些经历让他能够很好地担任 Plasse 的职位。 “我们会永远怀念 E r n i e 的领 导能力、行业知识和丰富的经 验，” Davis-Standard 总裁兼 首席执行官 Jim Murphy 表示。“他在 Davis-Standard 有长达 46 年的非凡职 业生涯。他的谦逊和职业道德为我们整 个 Davis-Standard 团队树立了极佳的典 范，我们祝愿他退休后一切顺利。”

m (左起) Ali Shehab 、 Mike Braddock 、 Amanda Shehab

Metalube 任命商务经理 Bishopdale 集团旗下的润滑油制造商 Metalube Ltd 已将 Matt Buffin 晋升为商务经理。 他现在管理一个全球产品经理团队，负责监督公司在全球范围内的销售情况。 Buffin 在 Metalube 担任全球产品经理已有两年，负责为公司的高性能链条油部门开发国际 业务并管理 Bishopdale 自己的品牌公司—— United Oil Products ( UOP )。 商务总监 Douglas Hunt 说：“ Matt 非常有能力，而且知识渊博，我很高兴能将他晋 升为商务团队中的二号人物。我们有远大的商务计划， Matt 是帮助我们实现这些计 划的理想人选。” Metalube Ltd www.metalube.co.uk

Davis-Standard 任命新任执行副总裁

1973 年， Plasse 在 Sterling Blow Molding （ Davis-Standard 品牌） 开始了他的职业生涯，当时他是一 名仓库职员，在接下来的几年里， 他担任了责任更大的职位，最终成 为 Sterling 的制造副总裁。 1994 年，他调到 Davis-Standard 总部，并在 2013 年成为售后市场 执行副总裁。 Davis-Standard 总部设在美国康涅 狄格州 Pawcatuck ，该公司致力于 设计、开发和销售挤压和转换技 术。其系统涵盖十多条产品线，为 主要行业的制造应用和客户提供支 持，其中包括农业、汽车、建筑、 医疗保健、能源、电子、食品、饮料包 装行业。 Davis-Standard, LLC www.davis-standard.com

m Zachary Ament

Murphy 补充说：“ Zachary 将在这一职 位上表现出色，他一直与 Ernie 一起工 作，确保平稳过渡。我们对他的视角和 领导能力充满期待，我们将继续致力于 提供优质客户服务。”

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行业新闻

到 2025 年，实现二氧化碳中和

到 2025 年，化工集团 Altana 将把全球 生产和能源采购对二氧化碳的影响降至 零。今年，该公司的全部电力供应将转 换为可再生能源。 在产生二氧化碳排放的地区， Altana 将 通过资助等效的气候保护项目来补偿 2025 年之前不可避免的天然气使用。 这同样适用于抵消必要的商务出差、公 司车辆和货物运输所产生的二氧化碳排 放。 “我们希望在创新上留下足迹，而不是 在排放上留下足迹，” Altana AG 首席 执行官 Martin Babilas 在解释这一决定 时说。 “ 2025 年，我们将实现二氧化碳零排放 计划，我们正在履行保护气候的职责， 坚持走可持续发展的道路。” 2017 年， Altana 已经实现了 2007 年设 定的目标，即到 2020 年，与总增加值相 比，将二氧化碳排放量降低 30% 。为了

进一步减少排放， Altana 正在全球范围 内的各个工厂提高能效并依赖热能和电 力发电。 从长远来看，可再生能源也应取代天然 气作为一种能源。 除在意大利 Ascoli Piceno 的 Elantas 和荷 兰代芬特尔市的 BYK 的现有太阳能系统 以外，在印度浦那的 Elantas ，还有一个 光伏系统投入运行，该系统覆盖该工厂 新研究中心的电力需求。 在意大利 Collecchio ， Elantas 目前正在 为新的生产和实验室建设建造另一个光 伏系统。 Altana 还与供应商密切合作，共同制定 计划，以改善采购原材料的二氧化碳平 衡。 Babilas 表示，工业在推动全球气候保护 方面起到决定性作用。“越多公司致力 于气候中和并创造相关事实，我们就能 越快实现巴黎气候保护目标。”

但他补充说，政策制定者应为此创建不 可或缺的框架。若可再生能源无法以具 有竞争力的价格产生足够的电力，若没 有相应的电网基础设施，将无法实现气 候保护目标。 根据德国化学工业协会 VCI 目前的计 算，到 2050 年，在实现温室气体零排放 的过程中，德国化学工业每年的电力需 求将增加到目前值的 11 倍以上（从目前 的 54TWh 增加到 628TWh ）。 “因此，我们呼吁政策制定者加强并加 快推广可再生能源。必须建立激励机 制，确保未来能持续通过二氧化碳中和 来源获得足够的电量和热量，” Babilas 表示。 “必须通过政府补贴来加快新程序,必须 消除使用和自身生产的障碍。此外,政策 制定者还应为该行业创建可比竞争条件, 采用国际统一的二氧化碳定价。” Altana AG www.altana.com 超声波现在已成为制造医疗、科学和商 业设备的重要组装方法。 Devine 对超声波行业的影响不仅仅是她 为 UIA 所做的努力。她出生在英国，在 英国接受教育，毕业于伦敦大学帝国理 工学院，获得数学和物理学士学位。 1 9 5 9 年 搬 到 美 国 后 ， 她 加 入 了 Sonobond Inc 的前身公司，该公司当时 正致力于将超声波能量用于金属焊接的 新概念。她曾担任公司副总裁和技术总 监，是负责开发 Wedge-Reed 系统并为 该系统申请专利的团队的关键成员，该 系统专门用于超声波金属焊接。 Devine 积极了参与许多最重要的商业、 医疗和工业系统开发，以及超声波金属 焊接和非织造与合成材料超声波粘合的 应用，许多技术至今仍在使用。 1990 年，她被任命为 Sonobond Inc 总 裁，至今仍担任该职位，在当时，由女 性领导一家重要科技公司的情况实属少 见。她获得了多项专利，同时在超声波 金属焊接、纺织粘合、超声波加工等领 域发表过许多论文。 Ultrasonic Industry Association www.ultrasonics.org Sonobond Ultrasonics www.sonobondultrasonics.com

Sonobond Ultrasonics 总裁被授予 UIA 终身荣誉会员

2019 年， Ultrasonic Industry Association ( UIA )委员会收到并勉强接受了委员会 成员 Janet Devine 递交的辞呈。 Devine 曾于 1997 年至 1999 年担任 UIA 主席。她还担任过副主席和多年的委 员会秘书。该委员会向她授予了 UIA 终身荣誉会员，表彰她长期为 UIA 服

务以及对超声波行业做出的重大贡 献。 在 UIA 发展过程，她发挥了重要作用， 使 UIA 从由国内工业大功率超声制造商 组成的松散联盟，发展成为强大的跨国 技术协会，致力于扩大技术研究和制造 应用。

m Janet Devine 从 UIA 主席 Dominick DeAngelis 手中接过纪念她荣誉会员的玻璃牌匾

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行业新闻

Steeltec 期待新任 CEO

立了 Steeltec 公司。“ Gerd Münch 管理 公司既谨慎，又富有远见。他从不害怕 尝试新途径，目标远大，正是如此，他 才为 Steeltec 公司获得的积极发展奠定 了坚实基础，” Geiger 评论说。 Steeltec 的产品组合包括高强度钢和 超高强度特种钢、 XTP ® 处理钢、特 殊调质钢、易切削钢、表面硬化钢和 工程用钢。该公司通过与 Schmolz + Bickenbach 集团的其他业务部门密切合 作并与客户和外部研究机构开展合作， 开发并交付钢铁解决方案。 Schmolz + Bickenbach Group www.schmolz-bickenbach.com Steeltec AG www.steeltec-group.com

NDC Technologies 是一家专为提高生产 力而提供测量和控制方案的公司，该公 司宣布资深销售领袖 John Perry 加入公 司，担任销售及营销副总裁一职。在该 职位， Perry 将负责领导 NDC 的全球销 售组织，执行公司的上市战略，并加快 公司关键垂直市场的渠道发展。 “ John 为我们的行政领导团队带来了 丰富的经验和知识，我们期待他在推 动营销和销售增长活动方面发挥重要 作用，” NDC Technologies 总裁 Marti Nyman 说。“ John 的销售领导能力及其 在全球市场销售方面的强劲表现，将是 我们公司加速增长和扩大市场份额计划 的宝贵资源。” Perry 表示：“我很荣幸能加入 NDC 团 队，在多年来打下的坚实基础下，共同 在 Schmolz + Bickenbach 集团旗下的 Steeltec ，担任 14 年首席执行官的 Gerd Münch 决定退休后，由 Florian Geiger 博 士接任首席执行官一职。 多年来， Geiger 博士曾为许多国际公 司担任管理顾问，专门研究企业业 绩。 2013 年，他加入了 Schmolz + Bickenbach 集团，担任业务开发副总 裁，负责企业范围的战略项目和收购。 此外，他还曾主导过在中国成立合资企 业及收购法国 Ascometal 的谈判。他还 在集团内成功地实施了一系列旨在提高 透明度并完善协同工作实践的项目。 Geiger 博士在 Schmolz + Bickenbach 集 团内有着良好的关系，在效率优化和绩 效管理领域拥有丰富的经验。

m Florian Geiger 博士

Gerd Münch 在公司总共工作 28 年，担 任过各种角色和职责，其中有 14 年时间 担任首席执行官。在此期间，他继续建

NDC 新任销售及营销副总裁

帮助建设。能够在加速公司发展、进一 步深化客户关系和全球市场地位方面发 挥重要作用，这是一个激动人心的机 会。” Perry 将接替 Randy Luffman ， Randy Luffman 于 2012 年加入公司，担任 NDC 销售及营销副总裁，现在即将退 休。 Perry 在科技行业拥有 18 年以上的 销售和领导经验。加入 NDC 前，他曾 在艾默生电气担任美洲地区领导，负责 指导销售组织和推动公司自动化和控 制业务的年度收入增长。在艾默生电 气，他的团队致力于销售艾默生的 PLC 控件、支持 IIoT 的硬件和云计算平台以 及发电市场中的工业通信产品。他还曾 在通用电气、丹纳赫、江森自控和 York International Corporation 担任销售及销 售领导职务。

m John Perry

NDC Technologies Inc www.ndc.com

业内资深人士加入 Metro Wire ，担任全国销售经理

Metro Wire and Cable 已聘请业内销售 领袖 Charles Antie ，他将担任全国销售 经理，负责协助增强多个细分市场（公 用事业、工业和石油/天然气）的关键 客户关系，并与为这些行业提供服务的 电力承包商开展合作。 Antie 曾在多家领先制造商任职，长期 从事关键细分市场领域方面的工作。 他曾在通用电缆、 Belden Cable and Electronics 、 Shawflex and Dekoron Wire and Cable 担任过管理/领导职务。

Metro Wire & Cable 为这些广泛的市场 提供高附加值的电线电缆产品处理、仓 储、供应链和交付服务。该公司 1976 年 在美国密歇根州的底特律成立， 1981 年 在乔治亚州的亚特兰大建立东南地区销 售中心， 2008 年在爱荷华州的爱荷华市 建立中西地区销售中心，公司总部位于 密歇根州的斯特林海茨，每个基地都拥 有针对客户需求量身定制的大量库存。 Metro Wire and Cable Corporation www.metrowire.net

“我很高兴能加入 Metro Wire 团队，” Antie 说。 “现在的客户对他们与 Metro Wire 的工 作关系非常满意，我很高兴能帮助加强 和发展这些关系。” Metro Wire and Cable 致力于各个行 业：公共设施部门、电子行业承包商、 风电场开发商、商业和工业 HVAC 设备 企业、交通信号、机场照明承包商、原 始设备制造商和保安行业。

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Technology news

All good things come in threes ❍ A Kocks RSB 370++/4 currently operating in China

Ø, with a close tolerance level and a reportedly excellent surface onto the cooling bed. The RSB 5.0 will be located as a finishing unit after the roughing and intermediate mill, consisting of 20 stands in H/V arrangement. Kocks’s scope of supply includes a roll shop for offline stand and guide preparation, as well as supervision of erection and commissioning. The start-up of the new RSB is scheduled for 2021. Friedrich Kocks GmbH & Co KG www.kocks.de

This will be the third RSB (reducing and sizing block) within the Baosteel Group, following installations at Baosteel Shanghai #5 in 2002 and at Shaoguan’s wire rod and BIC line in 2018. With the decision to implement a Kocks RSB 370++/4 in the existing 490,000t/a bar mill line, Shaoguan intends to further expand and strengthen its share in the demanding SBQ sector for high quality engineering steels for the automotive industry. The RSB 370++/4 will produce straight bars in a range between 17 and 80mm

Guangdong Shaoguan Iron & Steel Co is continuing to trust in the three-roll technology of Friedrich Kocks GmbH, by selecting the German company to supply an RSB 370++/4 in 5.0 design. Shaoguan Iron & Steel, located in China’s Guangdong province, belongs to the Baosteel Group – the largest steel producer in China and the second largest in the world. Baosteel manufactures premium steel products with high technologies and a high added value, in three major product categories: carbon steel, stainless steel and special steel.

Graphics bigstockphoto.com Artist Olechowski

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Technology news

Reducing material costs in automotive wire production

When producing ultra-thin cable at high production speeds, monitoring the insulation colour by sight alone is not practical. With this in mind, Rosendahl has developed a highly sensitive colour recognition system, called DVS SK-400-C, to detect even the slightest deviations. The colour recognition sensor system measures the main and stripe colours, as well as the stripe width, according to previously set references. It is also possible to optimise the product recipe. Due its sensitivity, the masterbatch demand can be reduced. Rosendahl subjected the system to intensive tests on its RA-A automotive wire production line. The results reveal that recipes with 2.5 per cent masterbatch can be decreased to 1.5 per cent while still maintaining the same colour shade.

The system’s main component is a PC-based evaluation unit with 360° camera surveillance. This unit consists of four cameras, covered by a protective housing. This enables continuous colour quality monitoring, which is also displayed on the reel protocol. Colour reliability is therefore immediately assured, eliminating colour complaints and faulty production. Waste and scrap are reduced at start-up, during production and even during colour changes. The system can be integrated into a new or existing production line, and can also be used as a stand-alone unit.

Rosendahl Nextrom GmbH www.rosendahlnextrom.com

❍ SK-400-C colour recognition system

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Wire & Cable ASIA – May/July 2020

Technology news

Metalube invests in further laboratory equipment As part of an ongoing investment programme into research, innovation and new product development, lubricant manufacturer Metalube has purchased a new LR-2.ST laboratory system. The quality control department has also capitalised on a new automated viscosity and density meter, which speeds up and improves accuracy of viscosity testing.

❍ LR-2.ST laboratory reactor system

The LR-2.ST is a modular laboratory reactor for simulation and optimisation of chemical reactions as well as homogenising processes on a laboratory scale. It offers torque control, heat control and homogenisation, allowing the company to optimise production efficiency and aiding scalability.

❍ Viscosity meter

Technical director Chris Nettleship said, “Both these investments allow us to be more efficient and offer higher standards of customer service. This LR-2.ST laboratory reactor has given us the potential to develop new and innovative greases and lubricants and catapulted our research and development capabilities to the next level. The reactor means that development samples can be a true representation of what happens in the plant environment.” Metalube Ltd www.metalube.co.uk

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Technology news

Cable applications – a winning challenge

Cables must respond to the most diverse needs and requirements: producing them starting from the proper compound will result in safety and efficiency. Ekopren ® grades, in pellets, are intended for several applications, from industrial to building cables, automotive and offshore, as well as windmills and marine industry. The portfolio includes customised rubber-based solutions, developed to support customers and meet special international specifications. Mixer compounds for LV insulation, developed on EPDM and EVA, are implemented in industrial, building, offshore, photovoltaic and automotive cables. All grades, cross-linkable via CV line or eBeam, are halogen-free and feature enhanced electrical insulation properties up to 3 kV, combined with ageing resistance, low deformation and fire resistance. For the MV insulation market, Ekopren is a solution for power, building, railway, mining, offshore and marine cables. The compounds, implementing full EPDM or EPDM/PE blends, are suitable for applications between 6 and 95 kV. With lead or lead-free, they can be processed in standard extruders and can be cross-linked via CV and dry nitrogen catenary lines.

The portfolio also includes peroxide cross-linkable sheathing grades, based on halogenated polymers such as CPE or NBR/ PVC or, alternatively, halogen-free polymers like EPDM or EVA. They present oil-resistance properties and flexibility for manufacturing power, mining, offshore and windmill cables. Bedding compounds, for tandem or two-step setup, target applications such as building, ground and safety cables, as well as LV and MV constructions with enhanced requirements in burning properties. Grades for PVC insulated and sheathed cables are formulated against plasticiser migration, allowing a high production speed. For HFFR cables, Mixer offers products with LOI from 26 to 60 per cent, suitable for CPR applications up to the B2Ca class. With a focus exclusively on products for the cable market, Mixer provides high quality compounds, designed to ensure efficiency for customers, within the framework of a worldwide technical service and continuous support at the customer’s plant. Mixer will present its complete Ekopren portfolio in Düsseldorf, Germany, during wire 2020 at stand E74 in hall 12, now scheduled to take place in December. Mixer SpA www.mixercompounds.com ❍ Mixer’s range will be on display at the rescheduled wire 2020 in December

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Technology news

Three innovations in one rotary braiding machine

Maschinenfabrik Niehoff develops machines for the wire and cable industry, including BMV vertical rotary braiding machines equipped with 12, 16 or 24 spool carriers. These machines are designed for the processing of bare or plated round or flat wire made from copper, aluminium or stainless steel, as well as artificial yarn and fibres. The BMV 16 rotary braiding machine is now equipped with three patented innovations. The first innovation is that the machine can automatically increase the bobbin rpm from 175 to a maximum of 200 and reduce the frequency of the lubrication intervals. The result is an increased production output of 14 per cent. As a consequence, the user needs less time for a certain order volume, and the braided product is less contaminated with oil. The second innovation is that the machine keeps the coverage ratio of the cable constant at the pre-set value

❍ BMV 16 rotary braiding machine

The result is a uniform braid along the whole length of the product. This means that faultless shieldings can be produced, which is particularly required for applications in the area of autonomous driving. Wire tension is also documented. By means of different monitoring systems, some optionally available, all BMV braiders can operate unattended for extended periods and without frequent operator intervention. The machines can be equipped with an integral taping device that enables braiding and subsequent taping to be completed in one step. It is also possible to manufacture products with tapes that must be applied both before and after braiding in S or Z direction. Maschinenfabrik Niehoff GmbH & Co KG www.niehoff.de

(for example 80 per cent). This allows a certain minimum coverage to be maintained, even when the cable to be braided varies in diameter. The patented Niehoff solution makes it possible to apply only as much braiding wire as is necessary, rather than using extra material as a safety margin to ensure minimum coverage. A measuring device permanently measures the diameter of the incoming cable before it enters the inlet of the braiding area and regulates the line speed (and therefore the braiding pitch) accordingly. Coverage is documented and can be proven to customers in process quality control. The third innovation uses the WTC (wire tension controlling) system and the dancer position to regulate the wire tension of the braiding bobbins, from full to empty condition, so that all braiding wires are applied to the product to be braided with uniform tension.

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