June 2010Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
As fossil fuels are non renewable, limited in supply and fast depleting, it is vital to find alternative energy sources as a replacement. Comparing South Africa’s solar usage to some of the leading users of renewable energy, Germany for instance, it becomes evident that South Africa has some catching up to do. Solar energy can be utilised directly, as is done in domestic solar water heating systems, or it can be used to generate electricity by means of photovoltaic panels or CSP (concentrated solar power).
Photovoltaics
These are modules that convert light directly into DC current. This can be stored in a battery and retrieved when it is needed to operate electrical consumables. A charge regulator ensures optimum battery charging with consumables, such as 12 V energy saving lamps, connected directly to the charge regulator. If alternating current is required then an inverter is needed to generate AC from the DC battery source. The size of the panel determines the amount of output power. For an off-grid solution, the smallest solar panels supply about 10 W and the largest about 200 W.
In an on-grid application the AC output from the inverter is fed onto the public grid via the grid feed electricity meter. In this way electricity is returned to the public grid when it is not being consumed locally and the supplier is paid by the power company based on the meter reading.
Concentrated solar power
CSP systems use lenses or mirrors to focus sunlight; electrical power is produced when the concentrated light is directed onto photovoltaic surfaces or used to heat a transfer fluid for a conventional power plant.
South Africa’s solar radiation output is over twice that of Europe, making it one of the highest in the world. IBC Solar South Africa has realised this potential and has the products and the knowledge required to go forward. The product range includes:
* Solar modules.
* Inverters.
* Batteries.
* Mounting systems.
* Charge regulators.
* Installation mounting.
* Solar inverters.
* Backup systems.
* Off grid inverters.
* Wind energy inverters.
* Monitoring systems.
The Group also provides a training course for the marketing, design, and installation of solar/wind electric systems, which is also accredited by the engineering council.
For more information contact Grant Joyce, Lapp Kabel, +27 (0)11 201 3200, [email protected],
Anton Paar launches inline refractometers for precision Brix monitoring Anton Paar
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
[Sponsored] Anton Paar has introduced innovative inline refractometers that are designed for continuous Brix concentration monitoring in metalworking machines, fruit and vegetable processing and other industrial processes.
Read more...Navigating the future of intralogistics LAPP Southern Africa
Editor's Choice
In the rapidly evolving landscape of global markets, the demand for agility, efficiency and scalability in intralogistics has never been more critical. At LAPP Southern Africa, we stand at the forefront of this transformation, offering cutting-edge connection solutions tailored to the dynamic needs of intralogistics.
Read more...Supporting fast, safe helicopter service across Sweden ATEQ South Africa
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
In an environment with high risks and fierce competition, Storm Heliworks’ fleet of eight helicopters operates on assignments throughout Scandinavia. Maintenance is critical, and the company recently invested in a battery charger analyser from ATEQ Aviation.
Read more...WearCheck introduces advanced Legionella testing to safeguard water quality Wearcheck
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
WearCheck Water has expanded its expertise in water analysis with the introduction of Legionella pneumophila detection and enumeration. This positions the company at the forefront of water and surface safety monitoring, ensuring businesses, industries, and public institutions can proactively manage legionella contamination risks.
Read more...Silo weighing made easy - new mounting kit for load cells
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
The PR 6003 mounting kit features fast commissioning in demanding applications in industrial silo weighing. It combines maximum accuracy with maximum safety in a compact system.
Read more...Smart weighing boosts Bayer’s automation
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
he new supply centre of the agricultural chemical and pharmaceutical company Bayer in Hangzhou integrates weighing technology of Minebea Intec for precise mixing and homogenisation in Zone 2 hazardous areas.
Read more...WearCheck Water wins accreditation for microbiological testing Wearcheck
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
WearCheck Water’s Johannesburg laboratory was recently awarded ISO/IEC17025 accreditation for Total Coliforms and E.coli Testing after a rigorous audit process, adding to the company’s extensive list of certifications, and reinforcing the laboratory’s adherence to national and international work quality standards.
Read more...Robust power and control cable LAPP Southern Africa
Enclosures, Cabling & Connectors
The ÖLFLEX POWER RV-K Eca by LAPP is a robust power and control cable designed for fixed installations under medium mechanical loads.
Read more...Advancing process weighing and weighbridge automation
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
Sasco Africa, a leader in industrial weighing solutions, is showcasing its latest innovations in process weighing and weighbridge automation.
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.