WCA November 2024

mixercompounds.com

DIFFERENTLY BETTER TO BE DIFFERENT, DIFFERENT TO BE BETTER. Featuring: wire India 2024

Ready to be different?

Meet us in Mumbai 27 - 29 November 2024 Hall 1 - Booth H43

Hosted by our local partner

THE MAC EDGE ®

Visit us at Tube India 2024

Booth B30 27-29 NOV

Minimac® II Digital ET Testing for Wire, Rod & Cable

Sales and Service Now In India

Magnetic Analysis India Private Limited

mac-ndt.com

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DIFFERENTLY BETTER TO BE DIFFERENT, DIFFERENT TO BE BETTER.

Ready to be different?

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200 °C Object temperature

max

6 mm Max. object diameter

2500 Line speed (m/min)

PREHEATER For Enhanced Wire and Cable Manufacturing E ciency

Benefits: Innovative induction power controller ensures stable and linear conductor heating Enhances extrusion productivity and improves product quality Automatically compensates for changes in production speed to optimize the induced heating power, guaranteeing e“cient heating control Repeatable and uniform conductor temperatures that shorten start-up times and reduce waste

Supports a multitude of materials with fixed and configurable recipes

Zumbach Electronic AG | Hauptstrasse 93 | 2552 Orpund | Switzerland Phone: +41 (0)32 356 04 00 | sales@zumbach.ch | www.zumbach.com

high speed for data

meet us in Mumbai 27 – 29 November, 2024 Booth I59

To transmit data from A to B, either me tallic conductors or optical fibers are required. And to ensure optimum trans mission rates, the corresponding cables have to be robust and of reliably high quality throughout. Rosendahl Nextrom offers manufactu ring solutions and equipment for both metal and fiber. What all machines have in common: high energy efficiency, eco nomical use of materials, high speeds and maximum productivity.

ROSENDAHL NEXTROM. tailor-made in europe

rosendahlnextrom.com

Editor ( 编辑 ) David Bell Editorial Assistant ( 助理文字编辑 ) Christian Bradley Design & Production ( 设计/制作 ) Lisa Wright Advertising/Marketing ( 广告/营销 ) Jason Smith UK, Italy, USA, Canada, India & ROW 英国、意大利、美国、加拿大、印度及世界其它国家 Linda Li Asia 亚洲 Advertisement Coordinator ( 广告联络人 ) Liz Hughes Accounts Manager ( 财务经理 ) Louise Jennings Subscriptions ( 订阅) Louise Jennings Web Design/Developer ( 网页设计/开发 ) Andrew Barnes Social Media Administrator ( 社交媒体运营专员 ) Milly Harrison Founder ( 创办人 ) John C Hogg Advertising/Marketing & Editorial ( 广告, 营销及编辑部 ) Intras Ltd Unit 32, Tangent Business Hub, Shirebrook, Nottinghamshire NG20 8RX, UK 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 four times a year. It is distributed throughout North and Southeast 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》每年出版 4 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。订阅年费最低 80 美元。 US Copies only : Wire & Cable ASIA (ISSN No: 0218 - 3277, USPS No: 022-979) is published four times a year: January, March, September and November by Intras Ltd and distributed in the USA by Asendia USA, 701 Ashland Ave, Folcroft PA. Periodicals postage paid at Philadelphia, PA and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER : send address changes to Wire & Cable ASIA , 701 Ashland Ave, Folcroft PA 19032. Europe ( 欧洲 ) 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 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 USA ( 美国 )

India-bound for wire exhibition Hot on the heels of wire China, which took place in September in Shanghai, attention remains in Asia with the next staging of wire India, between 27 and 29 November.

Being held in Mumbai, wire and Tube India is run alongside METEC India and India Essen Welding & Cutting. The exhibition lays claim to be the largest gathering for Indian and international wire, cable, tube, metallurgical processes and welding industries in the region.

More than 17,000 attendees were at the last exhibition in 2022 and this year there are more than 400 exhibitors from 21 countries occupying 23,000 square metres of space.

Exhibitors and visitors alike are expected from Austria, Canada, China, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Norway, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, the United Kingdom, the USA and Vietnam. And emphasising the importance of the exhibition, B Kamal Babu, managing director of Mikrotek, one of the regular exhibiting companies of wire India, said, “All the cable industry is in and around Mumbai and Ahmedabad. wire India in Mumbai is the perfect place to get the quality visitors. This year has, especially, been great.”

Our coverage of the show starts on page 36, and please call in at our stand E61 and collect your free copies of Wire & Cable ASIA , EuroWire and Tube & Pipe Technology .

A growing global demand for electrical power is being highlighted by UK manufacturer Rautomead.

The company creates technology for applications ranging from cabling for cars and high-speed trains to Olympic medals and commemorative coins.

Founded in 1978 and based in Dundee, Scotland, the company designs, manufactures and assembles equipment that processes non-ferrous metals and alloys for the global market – highlighted by the fact that more than 400 of its own machines are used in 49 countries worldwide.

And the company has targeted its investment in new and emerging talent, currently having six University of Dundee engineering graduates and a steady steam of apprentices. The full story can be found on page 8.

David Bell Editor

Front cover courtesy of

Mixer SpA

For more details: Tel: +39 0545 47125 Fax: +39 0545 47038

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DIFFERENTLY BETTER TO BE DIFFERENT, DIFFERENT TO BE BETTER.

info@mixercompounds.com www.mixercompounds.com

Ready to be different?

Meet us in Mumbai 27 - 29 November 2024 Hall 1 - Booth H43

Hosted by our local partner

All rights reserved © 2024 Intras Ltd ISSN 0218-3277

www.read-wca.com

As good as new again – or even better. NIEHOFF modernization.

During the design and manufacturing of its equipment, NIEHOFF focuses on advanced technology, quality, reliability, robustness and durability. That is the reason why NIEHOFF machines that have been in operation for decades are also worth a modernization performed by NIEHOFF specialists. These professionals have access to well-maintained and original documentation, and thus to all pertinent data. Because of their experience and expertise, NIEHOFF specialists can handle all customer-specific particularities. This applies practically to all NIEHOFF machines including any modifications made to them by customers. The spare parts needed for reconditioning are produced in house on cutting-edge machining centers to OEM quality, and thus meet the same high requirements as parts for new machines. Our technicians inspect the machine or line in question on site and analyze the specific increase in efficiency, which can be achieved by a modernization . The measures will then be done at either the customer’s site, on the shop floor at NIEHOFF facility or at a NIEHOFF subsidiary with its own manufacturing. After completion of the modernization measures, the machines or lines are not only “in mint condition”, but often show higher productivity than before. In most cases, modernizing NIEHOFF machines even after decades of use is therefore worthwhile. Allow us the opportunity to evaluate your modernization needs.

NIEHOFF Original +

Convincing Quality

Top Performance

Expertise, Customer Driven, Service – in Good Hands with NIEHOFF

Maschinenfabrik NIEHOFF GmbH & Co. KG Walter-Niehoff-Strasse 2, 91126 Schwabach, Germany Phone +49 9122 977-0/Fax +49 9122 977-155 info@niehoff.de

www.niehoff.de

Contents

Regulars

ISSN: 2633-9676 print

ISSN: 2633-9684 online

8 Industry News 24 Technology News 34 People 35 India Insight 36 wire India 2024 52 Editorial Index 52 Advertisers Index

46 Industry News 48 Products

Photo by Marcel Strauss, Unsplash

10

Technical Article 49 SDM submarine cable with 200μm diameter optical fibre

36

Mumbai, India 27-29 November 2024

By Daishi Masuda and Sho Nakayama, Submarine System Plant, OCC Corporation

bigstockphoto.com Artist Ivan Zhukevych

Photo: Renzo D’souza • Unsplash

Diary of events 27-29 November 2024 wire India Trade exhibition Mumbai, India Organisers: Messe Düsseldorf GmbH www.wire-india.com 4-6 March 2025 AMI Cables Conference Düsseldorf, Germany Organisers: Applied Market Information www.ami-events.com

November 2024

Getting Technical On the road to decarbonisation: the importance of the electric arc furnace route in steel production Featuring • Dies, cones and die maintenance Next Issue

11-14 March 2025 Global Industrie Trade exhibition Lyon, France Organisers: GL Events www.global-industrie.com

9-12 April 2025 wire Eurasia

Trade exhibition Istanbul, Turkey Organisers: Messe Düsseldorf GmbH www.wire-eurasia.com

6-9 May 2025 Lamiera Trade exhibition Milan, Italy Organisers: CEU-Centro Esposizioni UCIMU SpA www.lamiera.net

Subscribe today!

6-8 May 2025 Made in Steel Trade exhibition Milan, Italy Organisers: Siderweb www.madeinsteel.it

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DIFFERENTLY BETTER TO BE DIFFERENT, DIFFERENT TO BE BETTER.

13-15 May 2025 Interwire Trade exhibition Atlanta, Georgia, USA Organisers: Wire Association International www.wirenet.org

Ready to be different?

Meet us in Mumbai 27 - 29 November 2024 Hall 1 - Booth H43

Visit us online at www.read-wca.com Hosted by our local partner

Shows correct at time of publication, please check to ensure the event is going ahead

Industry News

Apprentice mechanical engineer Carys Anderson (left) and factory lead-hand Colin McLeish Photo credit: Dylan Drummond – Son of the Sea Photography Key role in global switch to electrification

graduates and a steady stream of apprentices. The company also works closely with the University of Dundee’s School of Engineering, bridging the gap between academia and business to address industry-driven challenges and develop new technologies. The Prosperity Partnership, funded by Innovate UK, sees four PhD students engaged in active research and development around the design of continuous casting rigs that produce high-value, high-quality alloys. The partnership also provides Rautomead with access to both students and graduates, providing a pipeline for mutually beneficial internships and succession in the workforce. Rautomead Ltd www.rautomead.com

emphasis on its after-sales service and parts business for its international client base. “From our Dundee operation, we enable world-class technology, designing and creating machinery that’s in high demand across the globe,” said Stephen Hall, the company’s recently appointed managing director. “With our technology already supporting the fastest high speed trains across China, our future lies at the high end of the electrification of the world. For example, as the demand for electric vehicles grows, so will the need for copper conductor alloys, widely used in EVs due to their excellent electrical conductivity and resistance to corrosion.” As part of its workforce, Rautomead is committed to investing in new and emerging talent, currently employing six University of Dundee engineering

A UK manufacturing company that creates technology for applications ranging from cabling for cars and high speed trains to Olympic medals and commemorative coins is preparing for the growing global demand for electrical power. Founded in 1978, Rautomead, based in Dundee, began as a recycler of brass watch bezels. Today, the company designs, manufactures and assembles equipment that processes non-ferrous metals and alloys for the global market. End products range from brass fittings and welding tips to high-quality wire and jewellery. More than 400 Rautomead machines, built in Dundee by a mostly local workforce, can be found in 49 countries around the world, including the USA, China, Japan, Spain, Germany, Thailand and Australia. The company places

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November 2024

FOCUS IN UPCAST ®

The UPCAST ® continuous casting technology has been a jewel since its birth – a result of technical innovation and process know-how. The legacy continues: consistent high quality is still everything.

Upward casting since 1968

®

UPCAST OY , PORI, FINLAND www.upcast.com

Industry News

Advances in extrusion of flame-retardant materials As understanding of safety evolves, so does the technology designed to anticipate and mitigate risks. This progression is evident in the cable industry, where the focus has shifted from solely technical specifications to addressing real-world applications and safety, particularly concerning flame-resistant cables. Historically, cables with PVC insulation, while low in flammability, generated toxic fumes when exposed to high temperatures, posing significant safety risks. Recent legislation has tackled these concerns by setting unified requirements for electrical cables to enhance safety and ensure consistency across products. A factor in these regulations is how cables perform when exposed to flames. In response to these stringent standards, compound manufacturers have developed increasingly sophisticated materials. This evolution has necessitated the creation of a new generation of extruders capable of precisely controlling process variables and achieving high production speeds. MFL Group has collaborated with plastics manufacturers to develop an advanced range of extruders that offer precision in temperature control and achieve high production output. Key innovations include: • Increased torque capabilities to handle the higher viscosity and processing pressures of modern compounds

MFL Group extrusion technology

• A thermoregulation system that measures the actual melt temperature rather than relying on the extrusion cylinder temperature • New screw profiles that reduce shear rates while enhancing production flow These advancements have resulted in an international patent for the flame-resistant material processing technology. Machines featuring this patented technology have been operational for several years. MFL Group is also designing future automation systems aimed at optimising production processes for greater energy efficiency, increased output and continuous quality monitoring. The company aims to harness the full potential of its machinery through exponential technologies such as artificial intelligence, IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) and machine learning, driven by its dedicated MFL X division. Guill selects new representative for Europe Guill Tool has appointed a new European sales representative company: EuroDev will offer the full line of Guill products across Europe, excluding the UK, where Padraic Lunn continues to represent Guill. Since its establishment in 1996, EuroDev has been the preferred business development partner of more than 500 North American firms. Its team consists of more than 75 multilingual professionals whose aim is to help North American companies map out expansion strategies in an increasingly complex marketplace. The company’s sales outsourcing includes market research, entry strategy, lead generation and sales. Padraic Lunn has worked since 1990 in the medical device extrusion industry in Ireland. With more than 16 years in precision extrusion, Padraic Lunn Enterprises Ltd offers a full range of extrusion machinery and consultancy for all extrusion processes, with a strong emphasis on tubing, wire, pipe and profile applications. The firm represents extrusion equipment companies in the UK, Ireland and other parts of Europe, and also provides customised extrusion training programmes based on customers’ specific process requirements. Guill Tool & Engineering Co, Inc EuroDev BV https://guill.com www.eurodev.com Mario Frigerio SpA www.mflgroup.com

CUSTOMIZED ENGINEERING

Made in Germany

PAY-OFF | TAKE-UP AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN

OVER 45 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

EXTRUSION AND SPECIAL MACHINES

YOUR EXPERT FOR CABLE AND WIRE

Saterland – Germany

www.KURRE-SYSTEMS.de

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November 2024

Industry News

New managing director at Rautomead

Rautomead, a UK manufacturer of equipment for processing non-ferrous metals and alloys, has appointed Stephen Hall as managing director, succeeding Brian Frame, who is retiring after 15 years in the role. Mr Hall, a Glasgow-born electronics graduate from the University of West of Scotland, joins the company following 18 years with FLEXcon Europe, where he held several positions including European operations director, managing director Asia and managing director Europe. “Having built a reputation for producing the best copper alloys in the world, I’m committed to taking the company to the next level,” said Mr Hall.

Stephen Hall

Photo credit: Dylan Drummond – Son of the Sea Photography

Through research and development work, combined with in house trials, Rautomead invests nearly £1mn annually, allowing the company to explore and develop new products, processes and materials. Rautomead Ltd www.rautomead.com

“I’ll be driving the business to innovate, identify and explore new niche export markets where, collectively, we can make an even greater impact while contributing to the UK’s strategy towards Net Zero.”

Top positions announced by PPI power and communications division

The elected Christian Herrild of Teel Plastics (Baraboo, Wisconsin, USA) to division chair, and Jennifer Reeves of Petroflex North America (Gainesville, Texas, USA) to vice chair. The new volunteer positions took effect on 1 June, with terms running from 2024 to 2026. PCD has

The division of the Plastics Pipe Institute, Inc (PPI) that assists the power and communications cabling industry has announced changes to its volunteer management committee. The power and communications division (PCD) of the PPI focuses on high-density polyethylene (HDPE) conduit for power and communication cabling applications.

Jennifer Reeves, having been presented with the member of the year award by PPI president David M Fink

Christian Herrild

Mr Herrild, who will also represent the division on the PPI’s board of directors for the next two years, is the director of growth strategies for Teel, a manufacturer of products including conduit and industrial piping. He has been actively involved in many PPI committees and task groups for more than ten years, and is now leading the PCD R&D project to establish requirements for using recycled HDPE in conduit, among other division projects. For his contributions, Mr Herrild was voted PPI PCD member of the year for 2022. Ms Reeves is the logistics manager for Petroflex, an extruder of HDPE conduit and pre-installed cable-in-conduit. In addition to now serving as vice-chair for the power and communications division, she is active in the PPI’s education and communications committees, plus other PCD project groups. She was voted member of the year for 2023 by the PCD. Plastics Pipe Institute, Inc www.plasticpipe.org

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November 2024

Industry News

Modernisation of blast furnace successfully completed SMS has commissioned a new Paul Wurth Parallel Hopper Bell Less Top® (BLT) in blast furnace A at Salzgitter Flachstahl AG. As part of the SMS upgrade, the BLT system from 1977 was replaced by a new Paul Wurth Parallel Hopper system, which features an array of technical and operational enhancements. The new design offers better maintenance options through improved access and dismantling aids. To improve operational efficiency, the modernisation of the top charging system in blast furnace A included the overhaul and integration of key components such as the spherical maintenance valve, valve actuator, material hopper and distribution rocker. The upgrade also included a new primary equalising system with reconfigured pipework, valves, and a hydraulic and greasing station, which was supplied in a turnkey container. Sound emissions have been reduced with the installation of a new silencer, contributing to more environmentally friendly operation. The equalising system’s piping has been simplified, streamlining the process. The new construction provides a higher level of sustainability and lowers environmental impact, as less dust is produced and less blast furnace gas is discharged into the atmosphere.

Lifting procedure of key components of the BLT system

area of 50 square metres, further facilitating maintenance and operational tasks. Franziskus Lutwin, project manager at SMS group, commented, “We are delighted with the successful completion of our latest project, which builds on the solid foundation of the positive relationship we established with Salzgitter during the relining of blast furnace B in 2015. It fills me with great pride to see how many improvements we were able to implement over the course of this project.” René Rockstroh, general manager of the blast furnace department at Salzgitter, said, “We are completely satisfied with the new solutions of the bell-less top design. All our demands and expectations were implemented. The collaboration with the team at SMS group was excellent and very collegial. After blowing in the furnace, the installed equipment works without any problems.” SMS group GmbH www.sms-group.com

The newly constructed hydraulic room provides more space, better access and an optimised system layout that covers an

50 Years of Excellence

Half a century of innovation, commitment and hard work has defined us, and made our wire synonymous with “excellence.” Our journey has been marked by numerous achievements. And while we have evolved, adapted and grown during the past decade, our focus on excellence has never wavered. Nor will it. We’re excited for our next half century, as we continue

to provide the world’s finest traditional and high performance copper alloy wire, RoHS compliant Percon ® copper alloy conductors, and fine and ultra-fine wire in specifications designed to meet or exceed your engineering requirements. Fisk Alloy. Wired for Innovation.

Supermac – Global Solution Provider in Extrusion and Process Technology along with IIOT applications

Supermac Industries established in the year 1974 is a leader in manufacturing of high end systems and process technology for the wire & cable in Power and telecom sector and related Industries. The ISO 9001 and CE certified company specializes in offering customized and tailor made solutions to fulfil specific needs of the variety of customers all across the globe. With a highly skilled design team, with the best of manufacturing and highly talented commissioning team, trained experts in cable processes and technology, we offer design to process expertise to bring in the best product for you. Supermac Industries established in the year 1974 is a leader in manufacturing of high end systems and process technology for the wire & cable in Power and telecom sector and related Industries. The ISO 9001 and CE certified company specializes in offering customized and tailor made solutions to fulfil specific needs of the variety of customers all across the globe. With a highly skilled design team, with the best of manufacturing and highly talented commissioning team, trained experts in cable processes and technology, we offer design to process expertise to bring in the best product for you. Supermac has expertise providing on line commissioning from remote. Post commissioning customer service support is provided Supermac has expertise providing on line commissioning from remote. Post commissioning customer service support is provided

IIOT screen IIOT screen

from both on site as well as from remote. In our endeavour to conform to industry 4.0 norms, Supermac has taken strong strides forward in implementing several digital initiatives and can provide IIOT enabled extrusion lines supported by Siemens Mind sphere software from both on site as well as from remote. In our endeavour to conform to industry 4.0 norms, Supermac has taken strong strides forward in implementing several digital initiatives and can provide IIOT enabled extrusion lines supported by Siemens Mind sphere software The company has three established and running units near New Delhi and are adding another unit under our expansion program. The company has three established and running units near New Delhi and are adding another unit under our expansion program. The state-of-the art facilities are equipped with international and indigenous machinery to carry out the process of manufacturing as per the customer’s requirements. Supermac has strategic partnership with German Companies – M/S Scholz to cover CCV Lines, M/S Rubicon to cover Rubber extrusion Lines and Simpack USA for Coiling machines and Solutions. The state-of-the art facilities are equipped with international and indigenous machinery to carry out the process of manufacturing as per the customer’s requirements. Supermac has strategic partnership with German Company – M/S Scholz to cover CCV Lines, and Simpack USA for Coiling machines and Solutions.

High speed building wire line High speed building wire line

Supermac specializes in the following areas: • State of the art CCV Line with Supermac specializes in the following areas: • State of the art CCV Line with

• Rubber extruders for Insulation and sheathing materials • Silicone extrusion lines with infrared vulcanization system • Cat 5.6 and 7 Lines • FTTH drop cable lines • Fluoropolymer – FEP, PTFE /ETFE Lines • Loose tube/Secondary coating lines for fibre optics • 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 • Rubber extruders for Insulation and sheathing materials • Silicone extrusion lines with infrared vulcanization system • Cat 5.6 and 7 Lines • FTTH drop cable lines • Fluoropolymer – FEP, PTFE /ETFE Lines • Loose tube/Secondary coating lines for fibre optics • 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

Scholz Vulcanization system for Power Cables up to 132 KV XLPE and 33 KV for Rubber • Specialized Medical Tubing extrusion lines • 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 and Optical fiber Cables. • HCV insulation and sheathing line • Hybrid and composite CCV lines for both XLPE and Rubber. Scholz Vulcanization system for Power Cables up to 132 KV XLPE and 33 KV for Rubber • Specialized Medical Tubing extrusion lines • 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 and Optical fiber Cables. • HCV insulation and sheathing line • Hybrid and composite CCV lines for both XLPE and Rubber.

Supermac CCV Line Supermac CCV Line

www.supermacindia.com www.supermacindia.com

SUPERMAC INDUSTRIES (INDIA) LIMITED SUPERMAC INDUSTRIES (INDIA) LIMITED

UNIT-I : Plot No-2, Sector-6, IMT Manesar, Gurgaon Haryana, INDIA Ph.: +91-0124-4690500 | Fax: +91-0124-4690501 E-mail: jasvinder@supermacindia.com, vkohli@supermacindia.com UNIT-I : Plot No-2, Sector-6, IMT Manesar, Gurgaon Haryana, INDIA Ph.: +91-0124-4690500 | Fax: +91-0124-4690501 E-mail: jasvinder@supermacindia.com, vkohli@supermacindia.com

OFFICE : A-28 & 29, NARAINA Industrial Area Phase-1, New Delhi-110028, INDIA Ph.: +91-11-45574317 E-mail: office@supermacindia.com OFFICE : A-28 & 29, NARAINA Industrial Area Phase-1, New Delhi-110028, INDIA Ph.: +91-11-45574317 E-mail: office@supermacindia.com

UNIT-II : Plot No. 18-19, Sector-2A, IMT Manesar, Gurgaon, Haryana, INDIA UNIT-II : Plot No. 18-19, Sector-2A, IMT Manesar, Gurgaon, Haryana, INDIA

Industry News

Baoshan rolls first bar on new block Chinese steel maker Baoshan Iron & Steel Co Ltd has successfully rolled the first bar on the Kocks reducing and sizing block (RSB®) in its new SBQ rolling mill. With this investment, the steel producer looks to expand its business activities in the field of high-quality speciality steels. By choosing to equip its new rolling mill with a Kocks RSB, Baoshan Iron & Steel is extending the partnership that began in 2002 with the investment in an RSB 370/4 for the Shanghai No.5 high-capacity SBQ rolling mill.

sections for the wire rod line. The rolled products vary between diameters of 18 and 50mm for bars in coils, and final dimensions from Ø 7.5 to 28mm for the wire line. The reducing and sizing block is in the advanced design that recently won an iF Design Award. The scope of supply also included remote control for stands and guides, which allows operational parameters to be adjusted from the control stand. In addition to the roll shop equipment, Kocks installed Bamicon Octopus software and hardware, assisting operators in stand and guide preparation and supporting the entire tooling process in the roll shop. Friedrich Kocks GmbH & Co KG www.kocks.de

The new Kocks RSB® 300++/4 with advanced three-roll technology has been integrated as a finishing block in the combined SBQ wire rod and bar mill with an annual capacity of 600,000 tons, to roll bar in coil and also the pre-cross

The first bar has been rolled on the Kocks RSB 300++/4

Mazak welcomes young students for STEM challenge

Yamazaki Mazak hosted more than 80 students from 46 primary schools in Worcestershire, UK, as they put their design skills and ideas to the test in the Primary STEM Challenge final. Held in June, the event marked the third consecutive year in which the final was hosted at Mazak’s European Technology Centre, showcasing the depth of young engineering talent in the county. The STEM Challenge is an initiative designed to engage primary school students in hands-on activities and projects that promote interest and skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Organised by STEMworks UK, this year’s brief, developed in partnership with Worcestershire Highways, focused on improving crossings at busy roads for pedestrians and cyclists. The students were challenged to design a system for moving and installing a footbridge made from K’Nex construction modelling components, with each team given a simulated weight that should be able to move over a set height and distance. As part of the event, the participants were also taken on a guided tour of Mazak’s European Technology Centre, which included the opportunity to help program some of the latest machine tools on display. Sarah Lalor, activities coordinator at STEMworks UK, said, “I am always thrilled to be a part of these events. It is vital that we provide young children with the opportunities to develop the essential skills that spring out of STEM subjects. Without these skills, young people may struggle to adapt to the working world. “Positive experiences like these finals are helping to ensure children have exposure to potential STEM careers to support the development of their skillsets and inspire them to work in a STEM field in the future.” Yamazaki Mazak UK Ltd www.mazakeu.co.uk STEMworks UK www.stemworks.co.uk

SHAPE

ANY YOU WANT

Below are the dimensions of common shapes that we provide: RECTANGLE - starting from 0.05 mm to 11.0 mm SQUARE - starting from 0.08 mm to 15.0 mm HEXAGON - starting from 0.30 mm to 22.0 mm

HIGH-PERFORMANCE LONG-LASTING

Accomplishing a smooth die geometry and utilizing solid sintering techniques can result in a longer lifespan for the die.

Our superior inner surface polishing results in excellent wire quality and ensures stable production.

COMMON SHAPES WE PROVIDE

OUR PRODUCT LINE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING OFFERINGS ND Dies MCD / SSCD Dies PCD Dies Shaped PCD Dies Stranding, Bunching, Compacting Dies Tinning Dies Extrusion Tools Nano / Diamond-coated Dies

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14

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Industry News

Hydrogen to decarbonise steel: first trial launched in Italy A first trial has begun in Italy to use hydrogen at a steel plant to process steel products. The collaboration between European energy infrastructure operator Snam, pipe manufacturer TenarisDalmine, and Tenova, a developer and supplier of sustainable solutions for the green transition of the metallurgical industry, will last six months, with the aim of evaluating the performance and reliability of using hydrogen in the steel industry and, more broadly, the sectors that are the most challenging to decarbonise. The goal is to use hydrogen produced on-site to fuel a burner recently developed by Tenova (100 per cent H 2 -ready), installed in a reheating furnace to hot roll seamless pipes at the TenarisDalmine plant in Dalmine, Bergamo, Italy. The test will also help to define and implement safety guidelines and plant management procedures, developing integrated solutions that can lower CO 2 emissions produced by manufacturing processes. TenarisDalmine will provide the site and reheating furnace, contributing its know-how to the installation, operation and performance monitoring of the steel plants. Using its expertise in hydrogen-related technologies and molecule transport, Snam will provide an alkaline electrolysis system to TenarisDalmine, which will operate it to produce the hydrogen needed for the test. Tenova will complete the value chain of the process by pooling its know-how on combustion systems and, in particular, supplying burners specifically designed to be fuelled with hydrogen.

The project also includes a significant contribution from Techint Engineering & Construction, a company that provides design and project management services, and is expanding in the energy transition field, with the development of general and detailed installation engineering, the development of risk analysis and verification of compliance with legal requirements and safety standards. With this first collaboration at the TenarisDalmine plant, Snam is supporting a major industry operator in “hydrogen as a service”, an ad hoc service that enables the use of decarbonised hydrogen in industrial production plants or other application environments, with Snam leasing the electrolysis system to the end user, which operates it. The programme is part of Snam’s broader efforts as a system operator to guide industrial companies in decarbonising processes that need to be tested in view of future large-scale infrastructure solutions. The companies of the Techint Group (TenarisDalmine, Tenova and Techint Engineering & Construction) consolidate their know-how by developing, implementing and validating the technologies required to decarbonise industries by gradually replacing fossil fuels with hydrogen. Tenova Tenaris Snam www.tenova.com www.tenaris.com www.snam.it EP Connectors GmbH uses IQJET printers from Leibinger for the production of cables for the automotive industry at its new plant. Every year, 5,000km of cable needs to be printed reliably and with abrasion resistance. EP Connectors opted for Leibinger as early as the system design phase. “From the original concept through to its successful implementation, we knew we could rely on Leibinger’s experience and expertise,” said Klaus Ciminato, head of cable production at EP Connectors in Bruchsal, Germany. The system is designed for speed and reliability – both required for the production of cables for the automotive industry. The cable insulation lines run at 1,000m per minute. EP Connectors produces stranding with up to 15 cores. In tandem operation, the cable manufacturer’s sheathing line achieves a speed of up to 30m per minute. IQJET printers from Leibinger are integrated directly into the system, ensuring that the corresponding print text is loaded immediately, which reduces set-up times. “Based on my 40 years of experience in the cable sector, we opted for Leibinger printers when developing the system concept because reliability is imperative for us,” explained Mr Ciminato. The printers’ automatic sealing system with closed ink circuit prevents clogging, even during downtime. Paul Leibinger GmbH & Co KG www.leibinger-group.com Cable printing for the automotive industry

Landing at an exhibition near you…

ARRIVALs

wire India 27th-29th November 2024 Mumbai, India

Stand: E61

wire Eurasia 9th-12th April 2025 Istanbul, Turkey

Stand: TBC

Made in Steel 6th-8th May 2025 Milan, Italy

Stand: TBC

Lamiera 6th-9th May 2025 Milan, Italy

Stand: TBC

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MUMBAI 27-29 Nov 2024

Industry News

Bulgin extends range of rugged circular data connectors Environmentally sealed connector

connector has data transfer rates of up to 25 GB per second – 2.5 times faster than the Cat 6a equivalent – while the USB 3.0 offers transfer speeds of up to 5 GB per second, which is ten times faster than USB 2.0. USB 3.0 also has a two-way transmission capability that ensures simultaneous data flow in both directions, resulting in a theoretical ten-fold increase in bandwidth. The HDMI connector features HDMI 2.1 performance and an operating temperature range of -25 to +80°C, making it suitable for outdoor applications such as broadcasting sporting events. melts, precisely capturing polymer melt properties. The test temperature ranges between ambient and 300°C. The lab’s scanning calorimeter characterises the thermal properties of a polymer sample, such as crystallisation temperature, glass transition temperature and head capacity of the sample. Knowing these thermal properties allows the simulation of shear heating and hot and cold spots in the flow area. Guill’s thermal conductivity meter is used to determine the thermal conduc tivity of the polymer sample across a range of temperatures. Capable of high definition measuring, the IM-8000 series Thisen Bird, associate product manager

and component manufacturer Bulgin has made three additions to its Data Buccaneer range of IP rated circular connectors. The company’s latest products – Standard Buccaneer Cat 8, Standard Buccaneer USB 3.0 and Standard Buccaneer HDMI – are designed to ensure reliable data transmission for a range of applications, from industrial automation and construction to outdoor surveillance and renewable energy installations. The connectors have a rating of up to IP69K when mated, are available in multiple cable lengths and mounting options, and offer enhancements over previous models. For example, the Cat 8

Standard Cat 8 connectors

at Bulgin, commented, “The Data Buccaneer range is well-renowned in the industry for its durability and reliability in harsh environments. We’re proud to add these latest products to the portfolio, which will help a wide range of sectors – including wind and solar energy applications – prevent the ingress of dust and water from disrupting crucial data connections to protect vital network infrastructures.” Bulgin Ltd www.bulgin.com image dimension measurement system has triple the detection performance. With a 20-megapixel CMOS sensor and a new algorithm for stable edge detection, high-accuracy measurement is available on up to 300 features. Greater simulation accuracy reduces the number of physical reworks needed. The in-house lab provides fast turna round of test results, reducing delays during the design process and offering control over the testing parameters. Guill Tool & Engineering Co, Inc www.guill.com

Rheology lab available as a commercial service Extrusion tooling firm Guill Tool is offering the services of its rheology lab for a fee to all those interested.

Measuring the flow characteristics of plastics and rubber helps predict how a customer’s material will flow through the company’s extrusion dies before pro duction. In addition, tooling geometry is virtually optimised, and the project can be viewed in 3D CAD. Machines used in clude a rotational rheometer, scanning calorimeter, thermal conductivity meter and a CT scanner. quickly generates visco-elastic data for polymer The rotational rheometer

Labelling series renamed to reflect track-and-trace functionality

a wide range of electronics component manufacturing environments, including box builds, internal and external vehicle parts (such as in-cabin infotainment systems and outside sensors), and various other computer unit and PCB assembly settings. The off-the-shelf product is available for immediate delivery in 61 sizes, in both high-performance polyimide and polyester. The DuraTrack Series can also be customised for customer applications that require an exact fit. Identco www.identco.com

Identco – a manufacturer of labelling solutions for the power equipment, electronics, transportation and general industrial sectors – has renamed its stock

TTL®100 series. Now called DuraTrack, the label series for printed circuit boards and electronic components provides traceability, which is an increasingly sought feature for internal quality control and supply chain transparency. Engineered for use in surface mount technology and throughout the entire assembly process, DuraTrack thermal transfer printable labels can endure harsh fluxes, the latest cleaning chemistries, and high temperatures encountered in circuit board assembly processes on both sides of the board. The DuraTrack Series of labels is suited to

DuraTrack labels from Identco

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Industry News

London fires prompt call for enhanced building safety with fire survival cables UK cable manufacturer Wrexham

“This uncertainty can only be addressed when all fire-resistant cables, regardless of size or construction, are subjected to true fire scenario tests. At WMC, we are committed to educating the market about the advantages of specifying MICC fire survival cables.” Wrexham Mineral Cables www.wrexhammineralcables.com

“Fire survival cables are a vital component of building safety, yet they often remain an unrecognised hazard. “Due to the lack of understanding about the important role they play in keeping buildings safe, all too often inferior cables are frequently installed, which may prove inadequate in the event of a fire.

Mineral Cables (WMC) is calling for better building safety standards through the use of fire survival cables. A recent fire in a residential tower block in Dagenham, east London, required the evacuation of 80 people. The incident occurred weeks after a fire at the historic Somerset House, home to priceless artworks. WMC says these high-profile events underscore the urgent need for building designers and specifiers to identify and install appropriate cables that can survive – not just resist – real-life fire scenarios. Specifiers are currently presented with a choice between polymeric cables and mineral insulated copper clad (MICC) cables. Due to the existing testing regime, both cable types are classed as fire-resistant. However, WMC states that MICC cables have consistently demonstrated superior performance, and perform to higher safety standards in “real fire” scenarios. In 2023, WMC published a white paper outlining how cables – often an overlooked component of a building’s system – directly impact building safety. The paper advocates for the introduction of a higher classification of fire survival cable, which can continue to power critical circuits in the event of a fire. Colin Hughes, group manager at WMC, commented, “Last year, the UK Government introduced stricter building regulations in England as part of new secondary legislation to implement the Building Safety Act. Sadly, recent events in London remind us that buildings of all types remain at a high risk of fire, and we must take every measure to ensure their safety.

Visit us at the wire India 2024 tradeshow 27 – 29 November 2024, Hall 1, Booth 107

WMC’s white paper, “Expecting the unexpected: specifying safety-critical circuit cables for fire survival”

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Industry News

An interview with Santiago Urbina Castilleja VP commercial at Orbia Polymer Solutions (Alphagary)

Santiago Urbina Castilleja

approachable, and I find that by treating each situation respectfully, we can solve even the most challenging problems. What does your company specialise in and why is it the best at what it does? Orbia Alphagary specialises in formulating and manufacturing com- pounds, plasticisers, stabilisers and colourants with properties that are specifically needed for the intended market sectors. Many formulations are bespoke to meet customer requirements. Our service strategy is simple: we listen to our customers and to the marketplace. What are the main projects or innovations you are working on at the moment? In wire and cable we’re working on materials for renewable projects such as solar power that withstand punishing outdoor conditions. Some of our other projects include achieving high-level global fire performance for data centre cables while maintaining robust data transfer capability; innovations in materials for electric vehicle charging cables; and trends in halogen-free compound demand and its advantages, such as flexibility for high-bend require- ments (such as data centre cables). Overall, we’re formulating materials with reduced carbon footprint that perform as well as their traditional counterparts. Many customers are working closely with us to achieve their sustainability targets with materials that perform optimally in the intended applications. What are the future plans for your company? Do you see a lot of potential for growth in the regions and markets that you deal with or in new areas? Our future plans include capacity expansion. Several projects are ongoing now. We are increasing capacity because

Can you tell us a bit about the history of your company since it was first established? The history of Alphagary and Orbia (formerly called Mexichem) starts in the 1960s, when the two companies began compounding operations and introduced PVC compounds to the marketplace. Over the next several decades, the two businesses grew organically, expanded through acqui- sition, and came together in 2011 when Alphagary was acquired by Mexichem. Mexichem rebranded to Orbia in 2019 as part of its transformation to a sustainable solutions company. Orbia Alphagary has significantly expanded over time. Starting with PVC compound- ing, we have expanded compounding into other polymer types including TPE (thermoplastic elastomers), LSHF (low-smoke, zero-halogen), other PO (polyolefin) compounds, TPU (thermo- plastic urethane) and other materials. We also offer additives for PVC compounds – plasticisers, stabilisers and colourants. Can you tell us a bit about your role at the company? What are the most satisfying aspects of working in your current role? Today, I head the global commercial activities at Orbia Alphagary. I really enjoy working with the commercial leaders and their teams around the world because we stay keenly focused on our goal to support the customer. No one is afraid to speak up, and the solution to the many challenges we face – whether the challenge is innovating a product or cutting into production to meet delivery demands – is typically inventive and resourceful, and not bound by conventional practices. In today’s fast-paced business world, it is critical to remain agile and The product portfolio of

Key factors we are watching include increasing demand for data, video and energy transmission, which is expected to continue driving growth, with the proliferation of smart devices, cameras and high-definition TVs in industrial, commercial and consumer applications. The advent of new category cables designed to accommodate these diverse needs will likely gain significant traction as consumers and industries alike seek efficient and high-speed connectivity solutions. The growing emphasis on sustainability across industries is likely to influence growth and change. This trend toward sustainable solutions not only aligns with corporate social responsibility initiatives but also addresses consumer preferences for products with a lower carbon footprint. What is the toughest aspect of your job? And what is the most difficult thing about being in a position of responsibility at such a large company? The toughest challenge I face on a daily basis is the time difference between our manufacturing facilities, since they are located in different regions of the world. Depending on where I wake up, my time zone could be hours ahead or hours behind the action. But this also means that we are servicing customers locally, which is a huge benefit, especially with time-critical challenges. What advice would you give to someone trying to make it in the industry as you did yourself? Sign up for an apprenticeship and come to work willing to learn. When you find an organisation that is willing to teach, mentor and coach, take full advantage of the opportunity to learn different aspects of the business. This experience will help you make better decisions and operate with empathy (because you know what it’s like to stand in someone else’s shoes). Being in a customer-facing role is hugely beneficial, even if that is where you won’t stay. It’s beneficial because every job in an organisation depends on satisfied customers who purchase your product. Orbia www.orbia.com

we see growth potential especially in the wire and cable area as our world becomes more automated, but also in sectors such as piping, as infrastructures are developed and refined. We are investing in new capacity also for safety and efficiency reasons, as we are mindful of our vastly important human capital as well as our carbon footprint and our role in sustainability.

The Melton New Line where some of Orbia’s products are manufactured

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