WCA November 2021

New DST10 Sparktester

Small in size and cost effective. Aimed at coiling, rewinding, packaging and space restricted applications.

Zumbach is a global leader in the industry, family owned since 1957. Driven by innovation and experience. We are here for you and ready to build the future together. www.zumbach.com • sales@zumbach.ch

Effective flame retardant for HFFR/PVC cable compounds

EcoPiren ® is a natural magnesium hydroxide obtained by XRF separation and innovative milling of brucite mineral. EcoPiren ® is used as an effective flame retardant and smoke suppressant in halogen free and PVC cable compounds. It can be applied in compounds of cable sheathing, bedding or insulation as a single flame retardant or in mixture with synthetic aluminum hydroxide (HFFR) or with antimony trioxide and zinc borate (PVC).

Application of EcoPiren ® achieves the highest grades of fireproof classifications in polymer systems. ⸰ Prevention of burning droplet formation ⸰ Reduction of smoke toxicity ⸰ Effective smoke suppression ⸰ High productivity due to high decomposition temperature (330 °C) ⸰ Good processability ⸰ Improvement of the CPR category of the cable ⸰ Optimization of the cost of compound ⸰ Naturally occurring and environmentally friendly

www.brucite.plus info@brucite.plus +7 (495) 789 65 30

Contents

6 Industry News 18 Technology News 32 India Insight 48 Editorial Index 48 Advertisers Index Regulars

ISSN: 2633-9676 print

ISSN: 2633-9684 online

37 Industry News 40 Products 43 Manufacturing Technology

Photo by Fernando Reyes, Unsplash

Photo by Mika Baumeister, Unsplash

Technical Article

8

45 New ethylene vinyl

acetate copolymers for highly filled wire and cable compounds

bigstockphoto.com Artist Ivan Zhukevych

Diary of events

4-8 April 2022 MACH

November 2021

Trade exhibition Birmingham, UK Organisers: The Manufacturing Technologies Assoc www.machexhibition.com

9-13 May 2022 wire Düsseldorf Trade exhibition Düsseldorf, Germany Organisers: Messe Düsseldorf GmbH www.wire.de

Getting Technical Tension measurement faster than ever before: advanced stand-alone gauge head for quality control of optical fibres Featuring wire Düsseldorf preview Next Issue

25-28 May 2022 Lamiera Trade exhibition Milan, Italy Organisers: CEU-Centro Esposizioni Ucimu SpA www.lamiera.net 6-8 June 2022 Wire Expo Trade exhibition Dallas, Texas, USA Organisers: The Wire Association International Inc www.wireexpo22.com 26-29 September 2022 wire China Trade exhibition Shanghai, China Organisers: Shanghai Electric Cable Research Institute Co Ltd Messe Düsseldorf Shanghai Co Ltd www.wirechina.net

Subscribe today!

5-7 October 2022 wire Southeast Asia Trade exhibition Bangkok, Thailand Organisers: Messe Düsseldorf Asia www.wire-southeastasia.com

Visit us online at www.read-wca.com

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

Educational programme for the future Recognising future opportunities and the importance of education, Pakistan Cables has teamed up with the NED University in Karachi, Pakistan, to establish the Cooperative Education Program, providing female students with industrial experience, alongside their educational studies. The two organisations recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to provide a partnership that allows selected students enrolled in the Cooperative Education Program to receive a full academic scholarship, as well as internship opportunities at Pakistan Cables. “The MoU reaffirms our long-standing philosophy of leading the way for engineering development in Pakistan,” said Fahd K Chinoy, CEO of Pakistan Cables. “It also underscores our commitment towards diversity and providing opportunities for the youth. I am extremely proud that we have partnered with an esteemed institution that has a proven 100-year legacy of leading learning in Pakistan.” Dr Sarosh Lodhi, vice chancellor of NED University, added: “Pakistan Cables Ltd is a renowned name in the electrical industry, serving and providing prime quality cables for more than six decades. The MoU is a landmark document which will provide excellent opportunity to the students and faculty of NED University to work closely with a leading manufacturer.” More details are on page 33. With environmental issues at the forefront in many industries worldwide, Cimteq – a software provider to the global wire and cable manufacturing industry – has released a new white paper titled Addressing the Challenges of Carbon Footprint Reduction. The paper – the company’s fourth this year – gives readers a look at a worldwide priority, and practical advice on how manufacturers can make changes to become more sustainable.

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, ROW, USA & Canada Linda Li 中国 Advertisement Coordinator ( 广告联络人 ) .......................................................... Liz Hughes Accounts Manager ( 财务经理 ) . ................... Louise Jennings Subscriptions ( 订阅) . ..............................Louise Jennings Founder ( 创办人 ) .............................................. John C Hogg

Europe ( 欧洲 )

Advertising/Marketing & Editorial ( 广告, 营销及编辑部 ) Intras Ltd PO Box 6828, Warwick, CV34 9SP, 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

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

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 three 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 3 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 three times a year: 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.

A company spokesperson said, “Reducing carbon footprint is, unsurprisingly, a priority for all nations and most, if not all, industries. This paper looks at some of the global efforts being made to reduce CO 2 emissions and focuses on the many challenges facing businesses in the wire and cable industry.” Full story on page 16.

David Bell Editor

Front cover courtesy of Sikora AG showing their X-RAY 6000 PRO For more details please call:

+49 421 48900 0 sales@sikora.net www.sikora.net

All rights reserved © 2021 Intras Ltd ISSN 0218-3277

www.read-wca.com

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.

IIOT screen

Supermac has expertise providing on line commissioning from remote. Post commissioning customer service support is provided

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 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.

High speed building wire line

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

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

www.supermacindia.com

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

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

7

Wire & Cable ASIA – November 2021

Industry news

❍ Tenova LOI Thermprocess will supply a continuous quench

Fourth order from WISCO

cooperation between the two companies began in 1994. In addition to the previously installed equipment for treating medium and thick plates, the new quench will extend WISCO’s capabilities for thin plate heat treatment. Tenova LOI Thermprocess supplies industrial furnace systems for the heat treatment of metals, to clients from the steel, aluminium and automotive industries. Tenova SpA www.tenova.com Tenova LOI Thermprocess GmbH www.loi.tenova.com

Tenova LOI Thermprocess, a specialist in the field of heat treatment plants, has received an order from Wuhan Iron & Steel Co Ltd (WISCO) for the installation of a continuous quench for the cooling of thin steel plates. The quench is designed for efficient cooling of thin and very thin plates of high strength and wear-resistant material. Quenches adopted for this application ensure maximum hardness and flatness combined with powerful models and automation. It will be Tenova LOI Thermprocess’s fourth order from WISCO in the field of plate heat treatment. The long-term

Graphics bigstockphoto.com Artist Eky Studio

6

www.read-wca.com

Wire & Cable ASIA – November 2021

Industry news Resource planning, engineering and MES in a single suite

help operators to find and capture data easily. Through the Wonderware integration layer it can be connected to the PLCs of the machines to capture all relevant information. The system will provide transparency that improves OEE for the factory. The three solutions – CableERP, CableBuilder and CableMES – are available as a single integrated suite of products: CableSuite. Innovites www.innovites.com

supply chain. A material price module manages Comex/LME pricing and minimises risk of price volatility. Full integration with CableSuite provides customers the benefit of an integrated business solution. Innovites also implements CableBuilder to enhance and streamline the engineering, costing and quoting processes. CableBuilder is used by more than 100 cable manufacturers around the world. CableMES is a manufacturing exe- cution system for wire and cable. It features cable-specific screens that

Innovites builds software solutions to help customers in the wire and cable industry to improve their businesses. Industry-targeted functionality helps users to streamline production, reduce inventory and accelerate sales. CableERP on Microsoft Dynamics is a modern, cloud-based ERP system that provides functionality for capturing detailed cable requirements such as lengths, length tolerances, drums and put-ups; length optimisation in cutting, planning and production to minimise material costs and maximise resource utilisation; and full traceability of lengths and drums across the Success for EMO Milano 2021 EMO Milano 2021, the trade show dedicated to the metalworking sector, was held at the exhibition centre of fieramilano Rho, Milan, Italy, in October. Promoted by CECIMO, the European Association of Machine Tool Industries, and organised by the operational structures of UCIMU-Sistemi Per Produrre, the Italian machine tools, robots and automation systems manufacturers’ association, EMO registered more than 60,000 visitors coming from 91 countries. Luigi Galdabini, general commissioner of EMO Milano 2021, commented, “In such a complicated, historic moment, where the public health emergency is not yet completely over, EMO showed

its importance, drawing all those operators to Milan who could have the green light to move from their countries of origin.” Despite themobility restrictions still in force, EMO confirmed its international character. Foreign exhibitors accounted for 60 per cent of the total, and foreign visitors made up 30 per cent of the overall number.

❍ Products on show represented all segments of the metalworking sector

the world of production systems and metalworking. Speakers Corner, set up in Hall 5, proposed more than 80 speeches and in-depth analyses and discussions by exhibitors and organisers. In addition, 20 meetings were hosted within the EMO Additive area, arranged by AITA – Italian Association of Additive Technologies. More than 2,000 attendees registered for the meetings. In addition, around 3,000 remotely connected users over the six exhibition days were able to follow the events held at the trade show via a live streaming service. The next edition of EMO Milano will take place in October 2027. UCIMU-Sistemi Per Produrre www.ucimu.it

The wide product offering on show represented all segments of the sector, featuring the portfolios of more than 700 companies, exhibited within six halls covering 100,000 square metres of exhibition space.

Beside the technology offering, EMO Milano 2021 featured side initiatives such as EMO Digital, an exhibition area focused on digital technologies; EMO Additive Manufacturing, dedicated to one of the most promising fields of manufacturing production; and EMO Start-Up, which offered an overview of new enterprises working on the development of products and projects related to

❍ EMO Milano 2021 opening ceremony

8

www.read-wca.com

Wire & Cable ASIA – November 2021

Industry news A positive outlook for trade fairs in 2022

even in times of pandemics abroad, provided that hygiene and protective measures are observed. In 2022, the joint company partici- pations in China, Brazil, India, Russia and Thailand will be organised by Messe Düsseldorf GmbH together with its regional subsidiaries and partners. Planning is underway for the NEFTEGAZ trade fair for the Russian oil and gas industry, from 18 to 21 April 2022. As at the previous events, the fair will be accompanied by the National Oil and Gas Forum. Registration forms for federal participation in NEFTEGAZ 2022 are already available. The deadline for registration is 13 January.

foreign trade fairs in 2022 and optimised hygiene protection at the German pavilions. Comprehensive packages with stand space and a system stand are on offer, along with personal support from colleagues at Messe Düsseldorf for the implementation of trade fair presentation. For the international satellites wire and Tube China (26 to 29 September 2022), wire and Tube Southeast Asia (5 to 7 October 2022), wire South America/ Tubotech (25 to 27 October 2022) and wire and Tube India (23 to 25 November 2022), the VDKM has again applied for official German BMWi joint participation. wire and Tube China 2020 and wire and Tube Russia 2021 demonstrated that attendance at fairs can be successful block diameters of 36", including a 2012 GRC Eurodraw MTS 900 line; two rolling mills, one of which is a DEM four stand that was manufactured in 2015; four single draft bull blocks; a 14-wire lead tempering line; a steel rod shaving line that was manufactured in 2012; and die room equipment, including two wire EDM machines for cutting shaped dies. The equipment is available for immediate sale.

Messe Dusseldorf GmbH and its subsidiaries are optimistic about the new trade fair year, for both the utilisation of their own exhibition facilities and the development of worldwide satellite events. The organiser of the wire and Tube Düsseldorf shows emphasised that in difficult times it is particularly important for exhibitors to cultivate personal business contacts. The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) will again support official German joint company participations at the international satellites of wire and Tube and NEFTEGAZ in 2022. BMWi has significantly reduced the participation prices for the coming

Messe Düsseldorf GmbH www.messe-duesseldorf.de

Sale of used wire machinery in Ohio Mathiasen Machinery has been awarded a contract to sell equipment no longer required for the continuing operations of American Spring Wire Pengg LLC in Bedford Heights, Ohio, USA.

It is all still installed and could be seen under power. In addition to international sales of second-hand wire and cable machinery, Mathiasen represents new machinery manufacturers: Pratto Mesh Welding from Greece, and Wire and Cable Machinery Builders (WiCa) from Austria. Mathiasen Machinery, Inc www.mathiasen-machinery.com

The equipment was used for producing round and shaped high strength wire for the fastener and spring industry. Included in the list of availablemachines are rod breakdown drawing lines with

Cimteq mourns loss of founder and president Ali Shehab

passion for innovation were evident throughout his career. Alongside his wife, Amanda, he drove Cimteq forward, developing the business. Those wishing to pay their respects are invited to email their thoughts to inremembrance@cimteq.com All messages will be warmly received and will be forwarded to Amanda. The family would prefer not to receive flowers but would rather a donation be made to the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution).

Cimteq has announced the passing of Ali Shehab, president of the company, on 1 September 2021, following a battle with cancer. Mr Shehab was a well-known and much-respected individual within the wire and cable industry. He founded Cimteq in 1998 and helped some of the world’s largest wire and cable manufacturers through his dedication, expert knowledge and desire to make a difference in the industry. His fascination with electricity and his

❍ Ali Shehab

Cimteq Ltd www.cimteq.com

10

www.read-wca.com

Wire & Cable ASIA – November 2021

Industry news Major order to provide cold welders for Southwire

and user-friendly, and the guard device prevents hands getting near the welder when it’s operating.” The EP500’s built-in interlock mechanism ensures that the machine only functions when the guard is closed correctly, enhancing operator safety. The low-maintenance machine only needs an ordinary 120Velectrical supply for the integral PLC (programmable logic controller). Six of the EP500 cold welders ordered have already been shipped, with the rest to follow in the next few months. PWM has been designing and making cold welding machines and dies (industry standard and custom made) for the global wire and cable industry since 1984. The products are engineered in its UK workshops and tested to stringent quality standards. PWM Ltd www.pwmltd.co.uk

Todd Chikodroff, utility plant manager at Southwire’s Carrollton plant, said, “We’re committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment for our employees. Cold welders do not generate heat, sparks or fumes and there is no risk of the operator getting burned. “PWM’s proven expertise in cold weld technology made the company a natural partner for us and we purchased our first EP500 in 2014. It’s clean, quiet

British company PWM (Pressure Welding Machines) Ltd has secured an order to provide Southwire Company, LLC, headquartered in Carrollton, Georgia, USA, with 12 of its EP500 cold pressure welding machines. “This is one of the largest single orders for this particular rod welder that we have received to date,” said Steve Mepsted, PWM’s managing and sales director. “It’s a testament to the successful partnership that our US and Canadian distributor, Joe Snee, has established with Southwire over the last nine years, and we’re delighted to be working with them again.” According to Doug Glore, senior process engineer at Southwire, the EP500 was selected for its safety, reliability and cost effectiveness. The company has already installed around a dozen of these machines in its plants in Starkville, Mississippi; Hawesville, Kentucky; Huntersville, North Carolina; and the Building Wire and Utility plants in Carrollton, Georgia.

❍ PWM’s user-friendly EP500 electro/ pneumatic rod welder

11

www.read-wca.com

Wire & Cable ASIA – November 2021

Industry news

Rope strand compaction orders give a last-quarter boost

The precision-ground rollers have a long life, and unique roller groove profiles are provided with the units. Bar Products & Services offers rollers to suit any stranding requirements after the installation of the unit, with rollers being supplied for the compaction units worldwide. The strand compaction units are available for 2 to 40mm strand diameters. It is possible to apply compaction to a full range of strand constructions with

Bar Products & Services Ltd has received orders to supply five wire strand compaction units to the USA, and two units to be supplied to Turkey by the end of 2021. The company said that it was a “fantastic end to the year”, with enquiries from the USA, Europe and China looking likely to result in firm orders as the benefits of the strand compaction units gain a higher profile around the world. The strand compaction units are designed for ease of installation and operation, offering short set-up times and quick-change rollers (typically carried out in a few minutes). They provide the means to rapidly repair stranding problems and resume compacting with a minimum of downtime.

❍ Compaction unit from Bar

third orders for the units, after seeing the advantages of the compaction system in their production facilities. Bar Products & Services Ltd www.barproductsandservices.com

compaction levels from 5 to 25 per cent, depending on the construction and tensile grade of the wires. The company says that many customers have placed second and

13

www.read-wca.com

Wire & Cable ASIA – November 2021

Industry news

100 th Kocks three-roll RSB Jiangsu Yonggang Group Co has granted the final acceptance certificate (FAC) for the 100 th Kocks three-roll RSB ® (reducing and sizing block).

dimensional range of Ø 16 to 100mm for customers in industries such as machinery manufacturing, automotive, shipbuilding and wind power. “We feel much honoured to be the 100 th customer of the Kocks three- roll reducing and sizing block,” said Yonggang plant director Zheng Yuyang. “Jiangsu Yonggang Group decided to order a Kocks three-roll RSB because of its high reliability and comprehensive operation.”

Yonggang, a Chinese iron and steel producer, issued the FAC to Friedrich Kocks GmbH & Co KG for the successful commissioning of the three- roll RSB 370++/4 in 5.0 design. The RSB 5.0 is at the centre of a new 700,000 t/a SBQ rolling mill and enables Yonggang to produce bars within a

Friedrich Kocks GmbH & Co KG www.kocks.de ❍ Jiangsu Yonggang Group operates the 100 th Kocks three-roll RSB

Video tutorials: practical support for metal cutting

ISTech, which has been providing automated metal cutting solutions for more than 25 years, is producing a series of video tutorials under the name ISTech Academy.

When asked about the origin of the tutorials, managing director Alessandro Rescaldani said that metal cutting is never a trivial matter: with countless combinations of materials and processes, the possibility of encountering an unexpected situation always exists, and there is not always an expert at hand to ask for advice. The ISTech Academy videos are available 24 hours a day, to provide practical help to those who deal with metal cutting on a regular or occasional basis. ISTech has made the videos clear and easy to follow, so that doubts about the use of metal cutting saws can be easily addressed and any minor difficulties overcome. The images and simple captions show the different steps to follow in order to carry out the operations fluently and with attention to safety. Basing demand on the number of questions received on a subject, the company started with a tutorial on changing blades. The video shows how to change a blade quickly and smoothly, avoiding the most common difficulties. The next two videos are based on sawing machine installation (and moving the machine) and routine maintenance, showing the simple operations to be carried out to keep the sawing machine in the best working condition. ISTech also plans to make videos on solving the problem of crooked cuts, the correct choice of blades, setting cutting parameters, and the precautions to be taken when cutting different materials, among others. Further tutorials will depend on the requests the company receives. The videos are available at: www.youtube.com/user/istechsegatrici ISTech Segatrici Srl www.istech-segatrici.com

❍ ISTech’s Alessandro Rescaldani and Daniele Trinelli

Used wire and cable equipment Wire & Plastic Machinery is a reseller of second-hand wire, cable and optical fibre manufacturing equipment for wire drawing, stranding, bunching, cabling, braiding, extrusion and other cable-making needs. Machines can be delivered immediately from eight USA locations within five states – Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, North Carolina and Texas. Items and lines can also be completely reconditioned by an in-house engineering team. The company offers cash for surplus equipment around the world. Wire and Plastic Machinery Corp www.wireandplastic.com

14

www.read-wca.com

Wire & Cable ASIA – November 2021

Industry news

New Consteel order Tenova, a developer and provider of sustainable solutions for the green transition of the metals industry, has been awarded a contract by Fujian Sanbao Iron & Steel Co, an integrated quality steel producer in the Zhangzhou region of China, for the supply of a Consteel ® system. Tenova’s Consteel system is tech- nology that allows the user to increase efficiency and environmental and safety performances. The system includes a new generation electric arc furnace (EAF) full platform and a Consteel Evolution – a combination that achieves reduced pollution and CO 2 emissions, directly related to its operational reliability. It also offers claimed advantages in terms of savings in electrical consumption, improved productivity, high-quality steel and greater environmental protection, while the process automation system improves workplace safety. Since its first industrial installation more than thirty years ago, Tenova has continually improved the Consteel system to meet users’ needs. The fumes from the EAF are used to pre-heat raw materials inside the pre- heating section and are then sent, without pollutants, to a plant fume cleaning system. The new Consteel for Fujian Sanbao is designed to be fed with low-density scrap. The equipment will allow the customer to have high flexibility for raw materials, making it possible to use different types of scrap, including bundles and hot metal. “Our previous successful references have played a fundamental role in building trust and cooperation with the client,” said Beijun Ben Cheng, sales proposal at Tenova Technologies (Tianjin) Co, Ltd. “This is in line with Tenova’s commitment to being a reliable partner and always keeping innovation and continuous improvement of our design and technologies as top priorities.” Tenova SpA www.tenova.com

❍ The layout of Tenova’s Consteel for Fujian Sanbao

15

www.read-wca.com

Wire & Cable ASIA – November 2021

Industry news

Guill Tool launches in-house rheology lab Extrusion tooling manufacturer Guill Tool has opened an in-house rheology laboratory, with the aim of obtaining better results and minimising the time between testing and production. processes. Guill, however, can not only gather data the same way third- party testers can, but can also interpret that data as it applies specifically to extrusion.

Guill is now equipped to both test its customers’ materials and work with them to create extrusion tooling. Accurate simulation and interpretation by extrusion experts reduces the number of physical reworks needed, as the tooling has a greater chance of producing a good product at the outset. In-house testing also speeds up the turnaround on test results, which reduces delays during the tool design process and offers better control over the processes and test parameters.

The lab, in the company’s facility in West Warwick, Rhode Island, USA, features several key machines that ensure optimum results when testing materials – especially new compounds to be extruded. The testing equipment includes a hybrid rotational rheometer, a differential scanning calorimeter and a thermal conductivity meter. Third-party testing facilities are typically not experienced in extrusion

❍ Guill’s new rheology lab at the company headquarters in Rhode Island

The new Guill rheology lab processes standard materials and custom formulae, and is equipped to mix materials including plastics, thermoplastic elas- tomers, all types of rubber and silicone. Information from the lab is transmitted directly to Guill’s engineering department for review by the design team.

The lab will be offered for use by extruders and chemical formulators, among others in the industry. Guill Tool & Engineering www.guill.com ❍ TA Instruments Discovery HR-2 hybrid rotational rheometer

The challenges of carbon footprint reduction Cimteq, a software provider to the global wire and cable manufacturing industry, has released a new white paper titled Addressing the Challenges of Carbon Footprint Reduction. The paper – the company’s fourth to be released this year – gives readers a look at a worldwide priority, and practical advice on how manufacturers can make changes to become more sustainable.

A company spokesperson said, “Reducing carbon footprint is, unsurprisingly, a priority for all nations and most, if not all, industries. This paper looks at some of the global efforts being made to reduce CO 2 emissions and focuses on the many challenges facing businesses in the wire and cable industry.” Achieving net-zero carbon is high on the agenda, with global leaders calling for an acceleration in efforts. The rise in sea levels and the increasing likelihood of extreme weather scenarios are posing major threats around the world. Cimteq’s spokesperson continued, “As more and more manufacturers across the world endeavour to reduce their own CO 2 emissions, efforts will also be centred around entering into supply chains where sustainability is a key driver across the entire group. Carbon footprint reduction should be a collective effort between all parties.” The white paper can be downloaded from Cimteq’s website, via the “Cimteq Academy” menu. Cimteq Ltd www.cimteq.com

❍ Cimteq is addressing carbon footprint reduction

16

www.read-wca.com

Wire & Cable ASIA – November 2021

Industry news

Building safety a “ticking time bomb” if fire cable testing not strengthened

the only way we can make buildings truly safe.” Wrexham Mineral Cables www.wrexhammineralcables.com

times can be extensive or hindered due to the sheer size of the building. “The tests which construction products are subjected to need to be relevant and relied upon. It is extremely concerning that enhanced fire-resistant cables most commonly being used in fire alarms, emergency lighting, extraction systems, monitoring systems or even backup generators may not survive fire, water and direct impact. If this remains the case, building safety will remain a ticking time bomb.” Mr Williams says that mineral insulated copper cable (MICC) is the only fire performance cable that, in historical testing, has survived over 1,000°C while being subjected to direct hammer blows and a full water pressure test using a fire hose. Samples tested have been measured at just 5.7mm in diameter and maintained circuit integrity for over three hours. He added, “We remain committed to raising industry standards, and the only way to achieve this is by introducing a higher classification for such products. The government’s review of current systems for testing construction products was a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to ensure the safety of buildings. Regardless of size or construction, if a cable is required to function in the event of a fire, each single cable sample must have to pass a true fire scenario test, helping identify those which can survive, rather than simply resist fire. Ensuring that the tests which construction products are subjected to are relevant and can be relied upon is

Wrexham Mineral Cables, a manu- facturer of fire-resistance cables, believes that building safety could remain a “ticking time bomb” if product testing for fire cables is not strengthened. For many years, the company has been calling for more stringent testing standards as it believes too many cables are classified as fire resistant yet are not fit for purpose in real-life fire scenarios. Under current standards, only fire- resistant cables greater than 20mm in diameter undergo testing for direct impacts to reflect falling debris, and water jet testing on a single test sample. For enhanced fire-resistant cables under 20mm, no direct impact test takes place and the water test is just a spray test, while different stages of each test are carried out on different samples of cable. Wrexham Mineral Cables believes this is putting lives at risk. Commercial manager Steve Williams says that testing needs to be strengthened for all fire-resistant cables as part of the construction industry’s wider drive to improve building safety. He commented, “Enhanced fire- resistant cables play a fundamental role in ensuring that emergency and building critical systems are supported in the event of a fire. Not only do they provide early indication of a fire, they keep them safe whilst providing extended time for rescue services to evacuate occupants and ensure critical circuits remain functional for longer periods. This is particularly critical in high-rise buildings where evacuation

❍ Wrexham Mineral Cables believes current testing standards are putting lives at risk

New recruit to Lämneå team Wire machinery equipment supplier Lämneå Bruk has announced that John Lindh has joined its sales department.

Mr Lindh started his career in mechanical engineering and progressed to sales and marketing manager for wire cleaning and coating expert Candor. With 23 years of experience in the wire industry, Lämneå Bruk says that he will be an essential part of team. Lämneå Bruk AB www.lamnea.se

❍ John Lindh

17

www.read-wca.com

Wire & Cable ASIA – November 2021

Technology news

❍ Sikora says that its measuring systems can counteract raw material prices Counteracting raw material prices with measuring systems

Real-time measurement with Sikora systems allows reliable line control during the running process. Automatic control of the minimum wall thickness is carried out by modification of the extruder output or the line speed, and safety margins in the wall thickness can be significantly reduced. The measured values are permanently logged and are available for quality management in the form of trend and statistic evaluations, over the entire production cycle or the individual product length. Sikora AG www.sikora.net

or at the end of the line. They precisely measure relevant product parameters during the running production process. The measured values, such as wall thickness, eccentricity, diameter and ovality, are available directly after starting up the system. They enable direct centring of the extrusion tools so that start-up scrap and safety margins can be reduced. For example, optimal centring by the Centerwave 6000 measuring system, based on millimetre wave technology, leads to a potential material saving of about five per cent, according to Sikora.

Sikora AG specialises in manufacturing measuring, control and inspection technologies. The systems are used worldwide in production lines for process optimisation and quality control during the production of cables, hoses, tubes and plastic granulate. Against the background of the current shortage of rawmaterials and increased raw material prices, material saving is particularly important. Sikora measuring technologies are used for process control immediately after the extruder, after the first cooling

Graphics bigstockphoto.com Artist Olechowski

18

Wire & Cable ASIA – November 2021

www.read-wca.com

Technology news

First steps towards Industry 4.0 in a wire and cable factory

control and optimisation of material costs, and financial projections. Reduced rework and scrap, and having the ability to access product information on demand are benefits that manufacturers can gain from replacing traditional in-house, paper- based systems with the first stage of automation and digitalisation. Once the rewards of the initial automa- tion phase are realised, a move to more complex design software, ERP and MES systems, all of which integrate seam- lessly, can be considered, to continue the journey to smart manufacturing. Cimteq’s industry white paper, Applying Industry 4.0 to the Cable Factory Environment, can be accessed via the company’s website. Cimteq Ltd www.cimteq.com

viewpoint might be valid in the long term, but several fast, cost-effective solutions can make a difference in the short term. Cimteq states that the first step smaller manufacturers should take is to look at the “bigger picture” and visualise a future with a host of technology that enables greater flexibility, efficiency and productivity. This exercise will help themdetermine what their requirements are and will help them break down the project into smaller, more manageable and more affordable steps. One way to start the automation process is to look for ways to translate information into digital data, analyse it, and then drive it back into the system. CableBuilder Go helps smaller and single-factory manufacturers design, cost and quote wire and cables of all types. The system enables fast and accurate designs and quotations,

Software and equipment providers and advisers to the wire and cable industry often gear sales and market- ing towards more established manu- facturers with sophisticated pro- cesses, modern machines and sleek operational practices. However, Cimteq – a specialist in cable design and manufacturing software – highlights that many manufacturers worldwide feel far away from even considering Industry 4.0 and smart- factory processes. As a software solution provider, Cimteq aims to show these manufacturers that significant investment of both time and money is not always necessary at the outset. Advanced technology and connected automated systems are commonly considered the only solution to building a robust factory environment that can withstand changing industry conditions and increased competitor activity. This

Wooden cable reels Madem-Moorecraft Reels, located in North Carolina, USA, is a wooden cable reels supplier. The Madem Group has forests, sawmills and manufacturing plants in Brazil, Spain, Bahrain, the USA, Mexico and Colombia, and produces 450 containers/trucks of knock-down reels per month, supplying 150 cable plants in 45 countries.

With more than 70 years of industry experience, Madem aims to build trust and confidence with its product offering. Madem-Moorecraft Reels www.mademreels.com ❍ Knock-down reels from Madem Wire machinery from Sweden

such as low to high carbon, stainless steel and spring wire. All machines are designed and manufactured on- site in Sweden, allowing for flexibility and customisation of each unit according to customers’ requirements. A thorough three-step risk analysis and conformity to ISO standards ensure the safety standards of all machines. Lämneå Bruk AB www.lamnea.se

Having been in the wire industry for more than 100 years equips Lämneå Bruk with specialised industry know- ledge as well the ability to find solutions for the changing demands of its international customers. Its wire machinery equipment ranges from drawing machine lines to spooling machines, rod preparation, coilers, take-ups, payoffs, wire laying and pointing machines, not only for welding wire but also for wire types

20

Wire & Cable ASIA – November 2021

www.read-wca.com

Technology news Rotating machines for ferrous and non-ferrous cable

these machines are made with high standards in design and manufacturing for the production of all types of high voltage and extra-high voltage power cable, from overhead cable (including ACCC™, ACSS-TW and ACSR-TW) to insulated AC cable (using Milliken conductors) or DC type (using large, round compacted conductors or trapezoidal wires) up to 127 wires. The C2S customer services depart- ment helps to maintain machine productivity and enhance product quality, whatever the brand of equip- ment. C2S handles spare parts, upgrades, technical auditsandmainten- ance projects, as well as transfer and restart operations of complete lines. Bow Technology makes carbon bows for all sizes and all brands of double twist equipment, from 560 to 2,000mm. With a comprehensive range of designs, including the new-generation multi-use GreenBow2+, the division offers a global service from concept to production. Setic sas www.linkedin.com/company/setic-pourtier-c2s

lines for battery cables or for special and instrumentation cables. Pourtier can supply heavy-duty rotating machines to produce all types of power cable: overhead, submarine and low, medium, high and extra-high voltage. It manufactures heavy-duty stranders, cablers and armouring lines for ferrous and non-ferrous cables, and in the field of submarine and umbilical cables it offers a complete range of stranding, paper lapping, cabling and armouring machines. Its high-efficiency multi-wire concentric stranding line is used for low and medium power cable production. The company states that all of

For 30 years, Setic and Pourtier, and their US branch Gauder Group Inc, have been building knowledge, experience and ability to serve the wire and cable industry in the US market. Setic and Pourtier design and manufacture rotating machines for ferrous and non- ferrous cable, offering a wide range of twisting/stranding solutions to cable makers. Setic provides high-speed double twist pairing/quadding and single twist lines for the automotive industry, and LAN, special and control cables with enhanced performance. It continuously develops new lines and concepts for non-ferrous cables, in order to meet customer needs such as high-speed

❍ Setic single twist machine with capstan

Intelligent, connected measurement and control NDC Technologies, a provider of connected measurement and process control solutions, has developed the new LayScan Pro lay length cable measurement system. The original LayScan accurately and consistently measures the lay length of twisted pairs at the cabler. The upcoming LayScan Pro takes lay length measurement a step further, enabling cable makers to precisely monitor and control the lay length of twisted-pair cables as they are being made inside the bow of a twinning machine. cylindrical products during production that bounce and cannot be well-guided, and move off-axis or are out of the measurement range. NDC Technologies Inc www.ndc.com

The company’s new AccuScan Pro single-axis diameter gauge with application versatility provides 100 per cent inspection of multi-strand wire during production. AccuScan Pro accurately measures the diameter of multi-strand wire and detects missing and broken strands, simultaneously. The system monitors processes in real time for a complete view of product quality. The soon-to-be-released Smart Temp preheating solution offers high-frequency heating and integrated temperature control capabilities to deliver reliable, uniform in-process wire preheating to eliminate insulation voids in primary cables. NDC’s new LaserSpeed Pro M Series gauge accurately and reliably measures the length and speed of long, continuous

❍ NDC’s LayScan Pro

22

Wire & Cable ASIA – November 2021

www.read-wca.com

Technology news

Characterising coaxial cables AESA Cortaillod is a Swiss manufacturer of automatic test equipment, specialising in testing solutions to characterise electrical parameters of cables and wires. The company’s Scorpius DT is a complete and integrated solution to characterise coaxial cables with embedded VNA (vector network analyser) and computer. Different versions are available to measure up to 18 GHz and above. AESA offers also baluns and balunless solutions for LAN or category cable up to Cat 8, linear resistance measuring equipment covering very small to very large section ranges – either in the lab or directly on the line, data management systems, ISO 17025 certification, and knowledge and expertise in the cable industry for boosting production yield. AESA’s new representative for the USA and Canada is Amaral Automation. Founded more than two decades ago In-line measuring systems Zumbach Electronic is a manufacturer of in-line measuring systems for industrial applications, providing

❍ The Scorpius DT test device

and based in Warwick, Rhode Island, USA, Amaral provides a large range of technical solutions and consulting services to the wire and cable industry. AESA Cortaillod SA www.aesa-cortaillod.com

quality improvements in manufacturing through tighter tolerances, better transmission capabilities and improved workflow. The company employs technologies such as lasers/optics, ultrasonic, X-ray and high-voltage technology, and holds numerous international patents and trademarks. Zumbach Electronic AG www.zumbach.com

inductive preheaters for metal conductors, spark testers for in-line testing of the dielectric, optical surface inspection systems, in-line profile monitoring systems, data acquisition and FFT analysis. Zumbach states that manufacturers around the world have integrated its systems into their processes to increase output, reduce material costs and downtime, improve safety and control quality. The systems provide

accurate, reliable and comprehensive industrial gauging, process control and quality/production data acquisition technology. The company’s instruments measure diameter, ovality, wall thickness, concentricity, cross section, shape, capacitance and more. Zumbach also provides fault detection systems,

Invented in 1952.

Fit for the future.

23

www.read-wca.com

Wire & Cable ASIA – November 2021