News


So, who is LightWare?

August 2016 News

Production processes are complex so it’s important that the measurement technology used to control and monitor your processes is precise. LightWare Optoelectronics is a manufacturer of laser-based instrumentation for non-contact industrial process measurement. With the goal of developing innovative measurement technology that is easy to use, LightWare provides customers with products that improve production efficiency.

Research and development of laser level instruments has been the LightWare team’s focus for over three decades. James Portman, previously the founder and managing director of Laser Measurement – acquired by ABB – established LightWare in 2011, operating from Centurion, Gauteng. James is an expert in developing cutting edge, problem-solving laser products. Joining him in this new venture is his long-term business partner, Nadia Nilsen, who previously headed up ABB South Africa’s Instrumentation department. Their goal is for LightWare to become a global leader in applied laser measurement technologies.

James Portman (left) and Nadia Nilsen.
James Portman (left) and Nadia Nilsen.

“We are involved in a variety of global markets such as UAV, aviation, security, traffic management and cinematography, but our roots are still in process control and it is a very important sector for us,” says Nilsen, LightWare financial director.

LightWare manufactures private label industrial laser level sensors for a number of companies across the globe. In addition, the company manufactures and distributes its own range of industrial level sensors called InoxLaser. The InoxLaser products have been on the market for three years, distributed in South Africa through LightWare’s strategic partner, Newco Instruments.

These non-contact level sensors are designed to measure the level of solid materials and opaque liquids, as well as for positioning applications. A unique feature of laser technology is its narrow beam divergence, which allows for accurate measurement regardless of nearby structure, material buildup or falling materials. LightWare’s InoxLasers are successfully installed on crusher bins, tripper carts, silos, bins and ore passes across South Africa.

The InoxLaser sensor is available in two models: the NL-01 model measures to a maximum of 50 metres, and the NL-02 measures to 100 metres. Both models feature a robust IP66 303 stainless steel housing, 4 ... 20 mA output and two relays. They connect directly to, and can be powered from, a Windows laptop for quick and easy setup; no expensive handheld accessory is needed.

The compact InoxLaser NL-01 sensor is 14 cm long with a diameter of 6 cm, is powered by 24 V DC and is competitively priced at R14 990,00 (excl VAT). The larger InoxLaser NL-02 sensor is 18 cm long with a diameter of 9 cm, can be powered by both 110/220 V AC and 24 V DC, comes standard with an aiming laser and is priced at R19 800.00 (excl VAT). “We understand our local market’s need for a no fuss, robust and reliable level product at an affordable price. The InoxLaser products were developed for the current tough economic climate,” says Portman. “We also have a number of groundbreaking industrial products in our development pipeline, which we will bring to market over the coming years.”

For more information contact Nadia Nilsen, LightWare, +27 (0)12 942 0408, [email protected], www.lightware.co.za





Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Hitachi Energy ramps up global and African investments
News
Hitachi Energy ramps up global and African investments to support grid readiness for the AI era.

Read more...
Experience ICRA 2026 right here in Gqeberha, South Africa
News
The IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA) is the largest robotics, automation, artificial intelligence, and manufacturing conference in the world. You can experience the premier keynote and plenary presentations in Gqeberha.

Read more...
What to expect at Africa Automation Indaba 2026: From AI readiness to bankable automation projects
RX Africa News
Africa Automation Indaba 2026 will give delegates a practical view of what it takes to move automation from ambition to implementation with a two-day programme focused on industrial readiness, skills development, policy alignment, investment realities and the future of intelligent operations.

Read more...
SKF achieves SaiMechE CPD accreditation
SKF South Africa News
SKF South Africa has achieved SaiMechE CPD accreditation, a decisive step that empowers the next generation of engineers.

Read more...
Elevating artisanal skills is key to revitalising South Africa’s economy
ACTOM Electrical Machines News
We need to challenge the stigma attached to artisanal and technical careers, and we also need a mindset shift supported by the schooling system so that young people understand future career pathways, choose subjects accordingly, and recognise that artisanal and technical skills carry equal value in a modern economy.

Read more...
One visit, five shows: practical solutions for safer, smarter operations
News
Five co-located shows will bring together the full picture of how organisations manage risk, compliance, infrastructure and energy.

Read more...
From the editor's desk: A little bit of magic
Technews Publishing (SA Instrumentation & Control) News
Whatever your view is of America today, the Artemis II mission showed the world that it can still deliver moments of wonder. For a few days, the chaotic headlines gave way to something more. Who could ...

Read more...
Electra Mining Africa 2026
News
Electra Mining Africa will take place at Nasrec, Johannesburg from 7 to 11 September 2026.

Read more...
Woman of Stature Awards South Africa
News
In a powerful recognition of excellence in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Thabisile Phumo won the Woman in Mining and Engineering award at the 2026 Woman of Stature Awards South Africa.

Read more...
AVEVA to spotlight industrial intelligence at AVEVA Day
News
AVEVA will host AVEVA Day South Africa 2026 on 22 April with the theme ‘Accelerating Africa’s Industrial Future: Harnessing AI, Digital Twins and Data-Driven Operations for Sustainable Growth’.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved