EuroWire March 2023

Technology News

Reelex debuts single-head spooler Reelex Packaging Solutions, the creator and licensor of Reelex® twist- and tangle free packaging technology, is expanding its winding machine portfolio to include a single-head spooler designed to be used in conjunction with a Reelex packaging line or as a stand-alone unit. next-generation Reelex machine line-up and supplements our product portfolio by offering both Reelex and traditional spool packaging equipment.

“This allows us to provide the cable manufacturer with a ‘one-stop shop’ when procur ing a complete packaging line – whether Reelex or spools or both.” The S320DS features an automatic safety door that physically isolates the operator from the machine when running. It also has dual-channel Cat egory 4 safety devices to con trol hazardous energy sources and prevent unexpected start

The S320DS single-head spooler is based on the single-head S320 Reelex machine, but uses a linear traverse for spool and linear coil winding. The new take up features the same advanced safety features and controls as the S320 but is dedicated to linear winding patterns only. Operated by a single operator to cut, remove and reload spools, the S320DS offers a versatile and safety-conscious spooling machine that can be used on its own or in line with a Reelex machine. When used on the same packaging line as a Reelex machine, the S320DS allows the cable manufacturer the flexibility to produce either Reelex or spools on one line. Timothy Copp, VP of business develop- ment at Reelex, said, “With a focus on operator safety and the latest controls technology, our new S320DS leverages the advancements we have made to our Medium voltage (MV) cables are used in critical applications where major failures and injuries may occur. Regulatory bodies and government safety requirements/ compliance are vital in eliminating safety critical system failure. Product quality is usually measured through material tests. Manufacturers must conduct tests following methods specified by international or industry standards, to demonstrate the compliance of their materials. properties enables manufacturers to use materials that are suitable for specific end-user applications. Maintaining the quality and reliability of the finished products is also essential. Certification by BASEC (British Approvals Service for Cables) includes mandatory annual material testing of cable compounds. This way, a BASEC-certified manufacturer can demonstrate that the Understanding material

The new S320DS single-head spooler

All S320DS machines are supplied with custom-made pintles and shafts as specified by the customer. Multiple spool sizes can be accommodat ed, up to 634kg (100lb) in weight, 43cm (17") in width and 61cm (24") in diameter. Maximum spindle speed is 750 rpm. Reelex Packaging Solutions, Inc www.reelex.com

up, industry-standard PLC controls and readily available AC motors and drives. In common with the other next-gener ation take-ups manufactured by Reelex and released in 2022, the S320DS is paired with the company’s latest high definition HMI touchscreen controls, fea turing an advanced interface, network ing capability and recipe-based product selection.

Medium voltage approval scheme and surveillance testing to protect cable industry

Technological developments and eco nomic factors might pressure manufac turers to seek alternative designs and suppliers. The old Type Test report only demonstrates the compliance of MV cable for that single batch. Although factory acceptance tests (FAT) are performed in each batch, on request by the client, they are not carried out in a controlled environment. BASEC says that cables should be validated by an independent accredited body. BASEC provides MV cable approval to comply with local and international standards and to meet end-user speci- fications. BASEC-approved cable tests are carried out regularly: mechanical, electrical, construction and material testing take place annually, and allow projects to operate safely for extended periods. BASEC www.basec.org.uk

same compound formula has been used. If the manufacturer changes materials, BASEC can identify this in surveillance testing. Regular routine surveillance is used to check if materials used are identical, for the continuity of quality. As technology and innovations in material knowledge develop, manufacturers may need to maintain alternative formulas and suppliers for their cable designs. Additionally, global material shortages reinforce this requirement. BASEC can list suppliers and formulas under BASEC certificates to support manufacturers and provide peace of mind to end-users, with continuous surveillance testing and audits twice a year combined with random unannounced visits to manufacturers to take samples for testing. BASEC states that it is not uncommon to encounter five-year-old (and older) Type Test reports being used to demonstrate compliance on-site.

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March 2023