FEATURES: Control systems + automation Drives, motors + switchgear Plant maintenance, test + measurement
Motors | Automation | Transmission & Distribution | Energy Systems | Electrical Construction
LOCALLY MANUFACTURED SOFT STARTERS
Pioneering local capacity to support the oil and gas industry
SSW7000
0861 009378 | www.weg.net | info_africa@weg.net
COMMENT
Maintenance, or the lack of maintenance, speaks volumes
W elcome to the new year! May it be a wonderful year for you, your families, and your colleagues. Let us never lose hope, nor the resilience that will continue to make our industry shine even when the days are dark. But some of those clouds are beginning to clear. And I do have a sense that we can make a real effort, in many ways, to continue to make those clouds clear! Again, we have a magazine jampacked with information that will keep you informed as you settle into a goal-oriented year of progress. And, in part, it is that commitment to progress – just progress – that will see things continue to improve. Having had the privilege to have spent quite some time travelling (and travelling many thousands of kilometres off the beaten track) in the past while, seeing this beautiful country, I am reminded how important it is to plan, schedule and actually execute maintenance. Of course there will be budgetary constraints, and, in some cases, other resourcing challenges – but it is evident that if you slip up on regular maintenance it becomes hideously costly (in so many ways) to try and address serious failures after the fact. One of the topics we address this month is plant maintenance, test and measurement. It is always a worry that when things become a bit tough, maintenance often suffers – we don’t have the budget to deal with this, that or the next thing. This leads to disaster. Compromising on maintenance simply cannot be contemplated. Having said that, it also seems evident that in some very unfortunate cases, even when budget resources are available, maintenance does not take place. The consequences are so dire – and worse still,
in the public space, are clear for all to see. What is the effect of this? Whether in public spaces or on your plant, folk seeing the lack of maintenance will form a very quick impression of how you operate. And that impression will not be a good one. There is another danger, and that is that people almost become accustomed to seeing your plant in a state of disrepair – and almost accept that as the norm. This cannot be allowed as standard practice. I have visited many sites in this part of the world and in other hemispheres – and the tone set by plant upkeep speaks volumes about the intention of the organisation. It is beyond my comprehension when I see an obvious lack of commitment to maintenance. The impression is appalling. In this regard I also find myself recognising that in so many cases it proves difficult to get the areas surrounding and even serving your plant to be properly maintained and cared for. But be assured – when you cross the boundary into your plant folk must say ‘now this is what we expect to see’! So – let’s make 2026 the year when we test, we measure, and we get the job done. Let it be the year when we inculcate an attitude of caring among all our staff. And a year where, no matter what we see around us, we ensure that in the spaces we control we are world class, we are competitive, and we provide the future that our staff deserve.
The new SU Puresonic flow meter from ifm has no moving parts inside the measuring tube and hence oers many advantages. (Read more on page 3.)
Editor: Leigh Darroll Design & Layout: Katlego Montsho Advertising Manager: Paul Engelbrecht Circulation: Karen Smith Technical Editorial Consultant: Ian Jandrell
Publisher: Wilhelm du Plessis Managing Director: Karen Grant
Total audited circulation Quarter 3 (July-September) 2025: 7 638
Published monthly by: Crown Publications (Pty) Ltd Cnr Theunis and Sovereign Sts, Bedford Gardens, PO Box 140, Bedfordview 2008 Printed by: Tandym Print Telephone: +27 (0) 11 622 4770
E-mail: ec@crown.co.za; admin@crown.co.za Website: www.crown.co.za/electricity-control
CROSS PLATFORM CONTENT INTEGRATION: * Electricity+Control Magazine * Online Edition * Weekly e-Newsletter * Website* LinkedIn
Enjoy the read!
Electricity+Control is supported by
Ian Jandrell PrEng IntPE(SA), BSc(Eng) GDE PhD, FSAAE FSAIEE SMIEEE
The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher, the editor, SAAEs, SAEE, CESA or the Copper Development Association Africa
FEBRUARY 2026 Electricity + Control
1
CONTENTS
FEATURES
CONTROL SYSTEMS + AUTOMATION 4 Strategic upgrades beat mining obsolescence Adrian van Wyk, Referro Systems 6 Open versus closed automation systems Schneider Electric shares research findings 8 Products + services
6
DRIVES, MOTORS + SWITCHGEAR 11 Africa’s world-class service provider for rotating equipment Marthinusen & Coutts 13 How to maximise value from MEPS for electric motors Fanie Steyn, WEG Africa 15 Products + services PLANT MAINTENANCE, TEST + MEASUREMENT 16 Can AI fully understand machines? Annemie Willer, WearCheck 18 Managing emissions in on-site boilers Dennis Williams, Associated Energy Services 20 OEMs need a connected platform for services Henk Wynjeterp, PRAGMA Europe 22 Reliable transformers – keeping data centres operational Mawethu Ngubo, ACTOM T&D 23 Sensors provide critical ood warnings Instrotech, for Senix 17 Products + services
13
16
REGULARS
1 Comment Maintenance, or the lack of maintenance, speaks volumes 3 Cover article Flow metering without disruption 26 Cybersecurity Cyber-enabled fraud has become a pervasive global threat MDR: keeping a constant watch 28 Reskilling, upskilling + training The future of work in the renewable energy economy 99 in demand jobs – TVET opens career pathways 30 Engineering the future At the intersection of materials and quantum technology 31 Write @ the back Africa’s new powerlines – extending regional networks
22
32
2 Electricity + Control FEBRUARY 2026
Cover article
Flow metering without disruption
F low meters that involve moving parts are prone to errors and require a lot of maintenance. The new SU Puresonic flow meter from ifm has no moving parts inside the measuring tube and hence oers many advantages. In applications where conventional flow meters are aected by components in the measuring pipe, the SU Puresonic is an ideal solution. A typical problem of flow meters that involve moving parts such as a paddle wheel, for example, is that the wheels can become porous and break (a risk that increases over the service life) or that a blockage occurs due to foreign bodies in the medium. What is more, components can be damaged during cleaning and cause the meters to malfunction. The SU Puresonic flow meter works with ultrasonic technology. The ultrasonic transmitter and receiver are placed on the outside of the wall in such a way that the reflection occurs on the opposite inner side of the pipe. This means that no interfering structures are necessary inside the measuring pipe, which is made entirely of stainless steel. Another advantage: the sensor does not require any seals and ensures permanent tightness. The SU Puresonic is equipped with an operating status LED that can signal dierent status messages: for example, a deterioration of the signal quality due to air bubbles, particles or deposits, a failure of the electronics or the presence of a short circuit. In addition to green and red, the LED can light up blue, according to Namur NE107, to indicate a change in the process. As the SU Puresonic flow meter consists of a stainless-steel pipe with no components built in or protruding into it, the customer’s choice is simple. A time-consuming selection of the
appropriate meter based on the wet parts, or the sealing materials depending on the process parameters, can be dispensed with. The new flow meter is available in two sizes with process connections of 1” and 2”; the measuring ranges of the two models are 1...240 l/min and 5...1 000 l/min
About the ifm group of companies Measuring, controlling and evaluating – when it comes to pioneering automation and digitalisation technology, the ifm group is the ideal partner. Since its foundation in 1969, ifm has developed, produced and sold sensors, controllers, so¦ware and systems for industrial automation and for SAP-based solutions for supply chain management and shopfloor integration worldwide. As one of the pioneers of Industry 4.0, ifm develops and implements consistent solutions to digitalise the entire value chain ‘from sensor to ERP’. Today, the second-generation family-run ifm group has more than 8 100 employees and is one of the worldwide market leaders. The group combines the internationality and innovative strength of a growing group of companies with the flexibility and close customer contact of a medium-sized company.
For more information contact ifm South Africa Tel: +27 (0)12 450 0400 Email: info.za@ifm.com Visit: http://www.ifm.com
The new SU Puresonic flow meter from ifm offers many advantages.
FEBRUARY 2026 Electricity + Control
3
Control systems + automation
WRITE @ THE BACK
Strategic upgrades beat obsolescence in mining operations Mining operations are under constant pressure to maintain output while controlling costs. In this environment, operators face one persistent challenge: knowing when and how to upgrade aging systems before they become a liability. Adrian van Wyk, Managing Director, Referro Systems, says: “Striking the right balance through strategic system upgrades is the key to overcoming obsolescence and unlocking sustainable productivity gains.”
For this mine, new solutions were engineered to replace legacy systems within the existing control centres, which meant redesign and downtime could be avoided.
Timely upgrades matter Delay the decision too long, and outdated equipment drags down eiciency, safety, and profitability. Act too hastily, and production risks unnecessary disruption. As downtime can translate into millions of rand lost and customer commitments hinge on consistent productivity, technology upgrades have become essential to sustaining operational excellence and supporting future-ready infrastructure for mining companies around the globe. The value of partnerships Van Wyk highlights the case of one of Referro’s largest mining clients. “Our journey with this client began well before the client’s 2006 automation initiative. Although not formally engaged in their initial programme, our early involvement and deep expertise played a pivotal role in shaping their decision to implement Rockwell Automation’s Allen-Bradley control and motor-control platforms from the outset. Over time, our relationship has transformed – from providing front-line technical support to serving as a trusted advisor and strategic partner, guiding the customer’s long-term automation strategy. This evolution highlights the value of enduring, collaborative partnerships: Referro plays a role in guiding their technology roadmap, ensuring innovation, resilience and forward-thinking is built into every stage of their continuing automation journey.
“Going forward we continue to provide hands-on support, in- depth technical input, and forward-looking advice to ensure the company remains at the forefront of process and automation innovation.” What drives the upgrade wave? The most recent upgrade of the mine’s control systems and motor control centres was motivated by several factors, primarily product obsolescence. For many mines, equipment installed over a decade ago has reached end-of-life, impacting the initially installed product lines and technologies, with manufacturers discontinuing spares and support, forcing mines to consider costly ‘quick fixes’ or risk unplanned downtime. Beyond obsolescence, newer technologies oering faster processing, richer data capabilities, and more robust network protocols created an opportunity. Leveraging these advances through carefully planned upgrades is crucial to maintaining operational eiciency. Seamless engineering Van Wyk emphasises that one of the most complex aspects of any technology refresh is integrating new hardware and so¦ware with existing systems without disrupting ongoing production. “In this case, our engineering teams devised innovative solutions that allowed the replacement of legacy control networks, control
4 Electricity + Control FEBRUARY 2026
Control systems + automation
reactive quick fixes by proactively managing system lifecycles and anticipating end-of-life scenarios before they become operational crises.” Additionally, embracing new technologies such as Ethernet/IP networks, which oer faster speeds, richer real-time data, and cost- eective scalability, is essential for mining operations to maintain a future-ready infrastructure. Strategic technology partnerships and a disciplined upgrade approach support sustainable growth. For mining companies facing the question of now or when to upgrade, van Wyk says, “The solution lies in detailed lifecycle management and working with technical specialists who understand obsolescence and have the insight into new technolgoes and the capability to provide seamless integration solutions.” This kind of approach supports operational continuity, enhances productivity, and controls costs, key priorities as market demands intensify and profit margins tighten. Shaping mining’s future Van Wyk notes that as the mining sector deals with accelerated technological change and constant pressure to perform, success increasingly favours those leaders and organisations willing to invest in smart, strategic upgrades – not only the technology, but the mindsets and business models as well. Legacy systems and outmoded approaches can’t keep pace with evolving operational, sustainability, and stakeholder demands in an intensely competitive marketplace. The experience in the case of the mine cited illustrates what’s possible: with the right technology partners, a clear vision for the future, and a commitment to seamless execution, mining companies can redefine the standards for productivity, safety, and resilience. Strategic, well-timed upgrades ensure that when the next wave of challenges comes, the industry leaders are ready to take the next step.
CPUs, variable speed drive platforms as well as intelligent motor protection devices within the existing motor control centres and platforms. This meant costly redesigns and downtime could be avoided. “The devices were replaced with the latest networking solutions in Ethernet IP infrastructure, Allen-Bradley control logix CPUs, Powerflex 750 series variable speed drives and E300 intelligent motor protection devices, connected via Ethernet/ IP networks. These upgrades enable faster communication, enhanced diagnostics and monitoring capabilities, as well as a streamlined spares inventory, delivering significant cost savings and operational resilience.” Performance gains Although quantifying performance gains precisely is complex, the mine’s results indicate success. Among the mining group’s various mine sites, this retrofitted mine consistently ranks highest in throughput, demonstrating greater operational eiciency even compared to sister sites with similar geological profiles. This highlights the value of proactive upgrades and the critical role that technology partners like Referro Systems can play in enabling such outcomes. Dealing with obsolete infrastructure The accelerating pace of technological evolution means mining operations need to think strategically about their automation infrastructure. Referro advises other mining companies that are grappling with ageing equipment to partner with global leaders in automation technology that oer extensive local expertise and a proven track record. “It is important to implement upgrades through carefully planned, phased approaches that align with capital expenditure cycles and production requirements. Companies should avoid
For more information visit: www.referro.co.za
Control systems + automation: Products + services
Ultra-compact industrial PCs
Advances in CPU technology oering increased computing power have enabled Beckho to design ultra-compact industrial PCs. Beckho’s C60xx scalable series of ultra-compact industrial PCs combines high computing power in an extremely compact format with a wide range of options for installation in the control cabinet. A new Intel Atom® processor generation now provides more performance reserves in the devices, which cover low to high automation requirements. With a new generation of processors, the C6015, C6017, and C6025 ultra-compact Industrial PCs can be used for more demanding computing tasks than before, while retaining their compact form factor. The fanless devices are designed in particular for control, visualisation, and communication – from complex automation and virtualisation to use as an edge device or HMI platform. All the PCs benefit from the new Intel Atom x7 CPU series, which oers up to eight processor cores and a 3.0 GHz clock frequency. As the smallest device with dimensions of just 82 x 82 x 40 mm, the C6015 ultra-compact Industrial PC is ideal for highly compact applications, virtualisation, and IoT. The same applies to the
Beckhoff’s C6015, C6017, and C6025 ultra-compact Industrial PCs make use of the latest developments in processor technology.
C6017 with an installation depth of 66 mm, which has an additional second board level for optional interfaces and integrated 1-second UPS. Measuring 82 x 127 x 47 mm, the C6025 can also be expanded to up to eight processor cores and used with high-performance SSDs and USB-C.
For more information visit: www.beckho.com
FEBRUARY 2026 Electricity + Control
5
Control systems + automation
WRITE @ THE BACK
Open versus closed automation systems New research conducted by global technology research firm Omdia and unveiled by Schneider Electric in November last year reveals that closed industrial automation systems are eroding competitiveness and costing mid-sized organisations, on average, 7.5% of their revenue.
Open, software-defined automation offers a scalable, future-ready solution that modernises legacy systems and strengthens industrial competitiveness.
T he research highlights how these costs stem from operational ineiciencies, downtime, compliance retrofits, and delayed production, issues o¦en masked by the perceived reliability of legacy automation systems. For large enterprises, losses average $45.18 million per year, while smaller manufacturers face steeper proportional impacts, losing up to 25% of annual revenue. Traditional, hardware-defined automation systems, built for static environments, struggle to meet today’s dynamic industrial demands. Their rigidity turns routine updates into costly technical projects and proprietary architectures limit data access, reducing visibility and responsiveness. At the core of the challenge is hardware complexity. Most companies operate across two to 10+ distinct platforms, each with unique maintenance needs. This fragmentation drives vendor dependency; 30% of issues Key findings Hidden cost penalties: closed industrial systems cost mid-sized industrial companies 7.5% of rev- enue through downtime, ineiciencies, and com- pliance retrofits every year. Rigid infrastructure slows response: 77% of sys- tems need physical updates; fragmented plat- forms increase complexity and delay action. Open, so¦ware-defined automation oers a way forward: by decoupling so¦ware from hardware it enables faster decisions, real-time insights, and competitive resilience.
require specialised support, and this strains workforce eiciency due to the niche technical expertise required at a time when companies are facing workforce and skills shortages. Siloed systems also hinder predictive maintenance and the fast resolution of issues, leading to costly downtime and lost productivity. These ineiciencies scale across operations, limiting agility. The research underscores a need for transformation. Open, so¦ware-defined automation oers a scalable, future-ready solution that modernises legacy systems, accelerates ROI, and strengthens industrial competitiveness and resilience. By decoupling so¦ware from hardware, manufacturers gain the flexibility to integrate multi-vendor systems, adapt quickly to market shi¦s, produce small batches eiciently, and close engineering skills gaps. Real-time data becomes actionable, driving smarter decisions, boosting productivity, and reducing costs at scale. Schneider Electric customers are already realising these benefits. Many begin with pilot projects or asset-level trials, then expand to full-plant or multi-site deployments, unlocking full data ownership, improved quality control, and greater cost transparency, while protecting existing investments. “This research echoes what our customers tell us every day: industrial systems need to adapt as fast as their markets,” says Gwenaëlle Avice Huet, Executive Vice President, Industrial Automation, Schneider Electric. “It’s particularly encouraging that smaller enterprises stand to gain the most in annual savings, which can be reinvested in innovation and growth. Open, so¦ware- defined automation is a proven solution that empowers industrial players of all sizes to build resilience, drive innovation, and thrive amid rapidly shi¦ing consumer demands, regulatory pressure and market volatility.”
6 Electricity + Control FEBRUARY 2026
Control systems + automation
Four critical cost areas, annually $6.1 million in operational agility and resilience losses Inflexible hardware systems hinder responsiveness to market shifts, as 77.4% require physical modifications for functionality updates, and multiple vendor platforms create integration complexity. Modification costs range from $25K to $50K per hour, rising to $250K/hour for $1 billion + companies. $2.28 million in optimisation and efficiency costs Maintenance burdens, downtime, and talent gaps grow as hardware complexity drives operational inefficiencies. Companies manage, on average, two to 10 different industrial systems; 29% deploy 10+ hardware platforms, each with unique management requirements. $1.2 million in preventable quality failure and costly data maintenance Proprietary systems create data silos and limit integration. Only 28% of companies access real-time insights; half report that 20 to 39% of critical data isn’t available in real time. $1.7 million in sustainability and compliance costs Regulatory changes demand costly hardware retrofits, driving up compliance expenses. Anna Ahrens, Principal analyst at Omdia, adds: “In response to mounting pressures, industrial leaders are deploying tactical solutions to sustain their core priorities for growth, competitiveness, and trust. In a world where product lifecycles shrink, supply chains fracture, and talent gaps widen, agility and flexibility are key to survival. Every quarter a business
delays addressing the cost of closed automation ecosystems is another $1 million+ in lost value: money that could be reinvested in growth and innovation.” Methodology The research, conducted by Omdia, included 10 C-suite interviews across industries (Oil & Gas, Food and Beverage, Water and Wastewater, Metals, Other Manufacturing), as well as a global quantitative survey with 320 participants in Energy and Chemicals, Manufacturing, Mining, Metals and Minerals, Warehousing and Water, Wastewater and Waste. The study was conducted in September/October 2025. By decoupling software from hardware, manufacturers gain the flexibility to integrate multi-vendor systems and adapt quickly to market shifts.
For more information visit: www.se.com
Control systems + automation: Products + services
Sharing solutions for smart manufacturing
Global education online MESA also runs a Global Education Programme (GEP) which helps manufacturers manage their digital transformation and grow their capabilities in Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM) and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), which have become foundational to operational excellence. MESA recognises that many manufacturers
The manufacturing industry has always been resilient, but there’s no denying that this moment feels especially challenging. Around the globe, organisations are navigating tighter margins, evolving supply chains, and difficult workforce realities. Teams are being asked to do more with less, while still maintaining quality, efficiency, and innovation. In many cases, roles are shifting as companies rethink how work gets done and where to focus limited resources. What’s becoming clear is that these challenges signal a long- term shift, not a temporary disruption. Manufacturers that continue to invest in knowledge, skills, and smarter ways of working are better positioned to adapt and compete. Those that isolate or delay progress risk falling behind. MESA International (the Manufacturing Enterprise Solutions Association) exists to help manufacturers navigate this kind of change by connecting professionals to proven best practices, peer insights, and practical guidance for smart manufacturing adoption. For manufacturers feeling the pressure to adapt but not keen to navigate these challenges alone, MESA invites you to explore the MESA community.
MESA offers members the chance to learn from their peers about smart manufacturing solutions.
struggle with digital transformation initiatives, not due to technology but because teams lack a shared, standards-based understanding of how MOM systems should be designed, implemented, and sustained. MESA training courses are designed to help manufacturers, solution providers, and consultants establish a common language and competency baseline for successful MOM programmes. Whether you are planning a new MES initiative, scaling smart manufacturing, or building internal capability across IT and Operations, MESA’s GEP can help you reduce risk, improve outcomes, and accelerate value realisation.
For more information visit: www.mesa.org
FEBRUARY 2026 Electricity + Control
7
Building an industrial AI operating system WRITE @ THE BACK Control systems + automation: Products + services
complex systems in so¦ware, then seamlessly automate and operate them in the physical world.”
Accelerating the industrial lifecycle Siemens and NVIDIA will work together to build AI-accelerated industrial solutions across the full lifecycle of products and production, enabling faster innovation, continuous optimisation, and more resilient, sustainable manufacturing. The companies aim to build the world’s first fully AI-driven, adaptive manufacturing sites globally, starting in 2026 with the Siemens Electronics Factory in Erlangen, Germany, as the first blueprint. Using an ‘AI Brain’ – powered by so¦ware-defined automation and industrial operations so¦ware combined with NVIDIA Omniverse libraries and NVIDIA AI infrastructure – factories can continuously analyse their digital twins, test improvements virtually, and turn validated insights into operational changes on the shopfloor. This will enable faster, more reliable decision-making from design to deployment – raising productivity and reducing commissioning time and risk. The companies aim to scale these capabilities across key verticals and several customers are already evaluating some of the capabilities, including Foxconn, HD Hyundai, KION Group, and PepsiCo. With the partnership expansion, Siemens will complete GPU acceleration across its simulation portfolio and expand support for NVIDIA CUDA-X libraries and AI physics models, enabling customers to run larger, more accurate simulations faster. Building on that foundation, the companies will advance towards generative simulation using NVIDIA PhysicsNeMo and open models to provide autonomous digital twins that deliver real-time engineering design and autonomous optimisation. Shared innovation Siemens and NVIDIA aim to advance each other’s operations and portfolios by implementing technologies on their own systems before scaling them across industries. NVIDIA will assess Siemens offerings to streamline and optimise its own operations and offerings, and Siemens will assess its own workloads and collaborate with NVIDIA to accelerate them and integrate AI into Siemens’ customer portfolio. In this way, Siemens and NVIDIA will also create proof points of value and scalability for customers.
Siemens and NVIDIA have announced a further expansion of their strategic partnership to bring artificial intelligence into the real world: together, the companies aim to develop industrial and physical AI solutions that will bring AI-driven innovation to every industry and industrial workflow. They aim to reinvent the industrial value chain – from design and engineering to manufacturing, production, operations and into supply chains – and in parallel, accelerate each other’s operations. The announcement was made at CES 2026 (the Consumer Electronics Show held annually in Las Vegas, Nevada, in the USA). To support development, NVIDIA will provide AI infrastructure, simulation libraries, models, frameworks and blueprints, and Siemens will commit hundreds of industrial AI experts and leading hardware and so¦ware. “Together, we are building the Industrial AI operating system – redefining how the physical world is designed, built, and run – to scale AI and create real-world impact,” said Roland Busch, President and CEO of Siemens AG. “By combining NVIDIA’s leadership in accelerated computing and AI platforms with Siemens’ leading hardware, so¦ware, industrial AI and data, we’re empowering customers to develop products faster with the most comprehensive digital twins, adapt production in real time, and accelerate technologies from chips to AI factories.” “Generative AI and accelerated computing have ignited a new industrial revolution, transforming digital twins from passive simulations into the active intelligence of the physical world,” said Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA. “Our partnership with Siemens fuses the world’s leading industrial so¦ware with NVIDIA’s full-stack AI platform to close the gap between ideas and reality – empowering industries to simulate Jensen Huang (right), founder and CEO of NVIDIA, and Roland Busch (le), President and CEO of Siemens AG, announce their partnership to build the industrial AI operating system.
For more information visit: https://www.siemens.com
Synchronised control for steel mesh handling system
Automation specialist Hambi Maschinenbau, part of Terhoeven GmbH & Co KG , has developed a world-first system that automates the cutting, handling, and stacking of heavy reinforcing steel mesh – a task that previously required up to six people to manage. By integrating Mitsubishi Electric’s drive and control technologies connected via CC-Link IE TSN, Hambi has achieved millimetre-level precision and smooth synchronisation across motion, safety, and vision systems in a single, unified network.
of wire are welded into large mats, which must then be cut to size and stacked for transport. This was a labour-intensive process requiring workers to li¦, align, cut, and stack the heavy meshes. It was also considered a diicult task to automate, as the weight and flexibility of the mats means that even small deviations in alignment can cause major issues. However, Van Merksteijn International BV , a leading steel processor, was determined to overcome these challenges. It asked Hambi to develop an automated solution that could detect and compensate for any alignment variations in real time. The result was the ASA (automatic cutting system) – a six- metre-high, 40-metre-long machine that automates every stage Continued on page 9
Tackling a demanding manual process In the production of reinforcing steel mesh, long lengths
8 Electricity + Control FEBRUARY 2026
Control systems + automation: Products + services
Adroit Technologies receives Data Innovation Award
machine-learning models and generative AI via the Lumin module to deliver powerful forecasting and operational insights, particularly in water- industry applications, where early customer engagements have demonstrated real value. With over 30 years of expertise, Adroit Technologies has established itself as a trusted provider of SCADA, HMI, IoT, and industrial-automation solutions worldwide. What began as SCADA and process-control so¦ware has evolved in recent years into a broader suite of digital transformation tools that address the growing demands of Industrial IoT, asset- management, and cloud analytics. The Adroit Edge Gateway represents a progressive step in that evolution, enabling
Adroit Technologies last year won the Data Innovation Award at the Lumin 2025 ceremony, hosted by strategic platform partner OQLIS. This recognition underscores Adroit Technologies’ leadership in data-driven innovation across the industrial and utilities sectors. Central to the company’s achievement are its cloud-based analytics and operational intelligence platform, Adroit Cloud, and the purpose-built so¦ware gateway, the Adroit Edge Gateway, which together enable secure, eicient integration of industrial plant data with advanced cloud analytics. Commenting on the award, Johan Nieuwenhuizen, Sales Director and Co-CEO says: “This is a testament to our commitment to delivering real value through data innovation. With Adroit Cloud and the Adroit Edge Gateway, we are enabling our clients to access advanced insights that can deliver measurable improvements in eiciency, performance, and decision-making.” Hugo Pienaar, Digital Services Director, says: “The Data Innovation Award acknowledges Adroit Technologies’ work in extending what’s possible with the OQLIS platform through Adroit Cloud and its Edge Gateway. The Edge Gateway serves as a secure, lightweight bridge between on-premises industrial systems and cloud-based analytics, streamlining data acquisition and enabling real-time insights.” More than simple data transfer, Adroit Technologies’ implementation elevates the platform with modern visualisation and advanced analytics. The use of HTML override capabilities allows smarter, dynamic visualisation over traditional static layouts, making data more accessible, easier to interpret, and decision-ready. Complementing this, Adroit Technologies has deployed
Johan-Nieuwenhuizen Sales Director and Co-CEO, Adroit Technologies.
OT based communications to control or business systems, secure edge computing and real-time data transfer to the cloud, eectively turning legacy industrial systems into sources of actionable analytics and business intelligence. Through the combination of edge computing, cloud analytics, and machine learning, industrial clients, especially in utilities, water management, manufacturing and resource-intensive sectors, can realistically expect to aggregate and visualise real-time data across distributed assets, forecast system demand or maintenance needs, and make data-driven operational and investment decisions. Doing so, they can gear their operations for future demands, integrating new IoT and AI capabilities without sacrificing the value of existing infrastructure.
For more information visit: https://adroitscada.com/#
Continued from page 8
prerequisite, as image processing naturally requires the exact position of the grippers.”
of the process, from li¦ing the top mat in a stack to cutting and turning sections for compact stacking.
A world-first in mesh handling Following two years of development, the ASA system was commissioned at Van Merksteijn’s site in spring 2024. The solution achieves the precision, reliability, and productivity needed for large-scale reinforcing steel production. John Browett, General Manager of the CC-Link Partner Association – Europe, says: “It’s inspiring to see machine builders like Hambi using CC-Link IE TSN to solve such complex motion control challenges. The ability to combine dierent tasks on the high-speed open network demonstrates how this technology helps companies push automation performance further while keeping system design simple.”
Precision through synchronisation The system uses six grippers, each capable of independent three-axis movement. As the mesh bends under its own weight during li¦ing, the grippers must dynamically adjust their positions to maintain even tension and prevent deformation. In total, 18 servo drives coordinate this movement, with additional drives handling transportation, turning, and stacking. Synchronisation between these drives, as well as with the image processing system and safety controls, is critical to ensure stability and precision. That’s why Hambi decided to link every part of the system – including servo drives, safety PLCs, frequency inverters, and controllers – via CC-Link IE TSN. The high-speed, deterministic communication provided by this open Ethernet standard allowed the team to achieve millimetre-level precision when gripping and positioning the steel mesh, even as it naturally bends and shi¦s during li¦ing. The technology’s gigabit bandwidth also allows all system components to share a single unified network. “Communication via CC-Link IE TSN is particularly important,” explains Marc Orgassa, Managing Director of Orgassa GmbH , Hambi’s long-term automation partner. “It allows us to ensure that the various system components and controllers are synchronised with the drives. This is a
For more information visit: eu.cc-link.org
Hambi has developed a world-first system that automates the cutting, handling, and stacking of heavy reinforcing steel mesh.
FEBRUARY 2026 Electricity + Control
9
Control systems + automation: Products + services
CADENAS joins Eplan Partner Network
With a new partnership contract signed between CADENAS and Eplan, CADENAS is now the newest member of the Eplan Partner Network. CADENAS Managing Director Terry Jonen and Eplan Managing Director Haluk Menderes signed the technology partnership agreement at SPS Nuremberg, Germany in November last year. The stated goal of the cooperation is to expand the provision of technical device data via the Eplan Data Portal, which will be implemented using a direct interface between the Data Portal and the CADENAS platform 3Dfindit. CADENAS is a leading so¦ware developer in the fields of strategic parts management and parts reduction (PARTsolutions) as well as electronic product catalogues (eCATALOGsolutions). CADENAS’ so¦ware solutions act as a link between component manufacturers, their products and the buyers. Some 70% of the top 50 manufacturers in demand by engineers, reportedly rely on eCATALOGsolutions from CADENAS as a CAD catalogue solution for their products. More than 10% of the 1 000 global players from Germany rely on PARTsolutions by CADENAS. The technology partnership agreement signed with Eplan will make it easier for Eplan users to find the right device data. “CADENAS is a strong partner who will help us extend the range of device data available on the Eplan Data Portal with additional, validated content,” said Menderes. “For our customers, this cooperation is significant. The connectivity to the CADENAS device database expands our selection of device data with completely new, sometimes very complex configuration data – for instance for the energy sector,” Menderes added. CADENAS Managing Director Terry Jonen said: “With the planned connection of 3Dfindit to the Eplan Data Portal, we’re making it easier for engineers to access precise, up-to-date product data and are thereby increasing the added value for
our common customers.” Comprehensive digital device data is indispensable for design engineers. It accelerates project planning, increases eiciency in engineering and supports greater data consistency. Through their partnership, the companies will be developing an interface to the CADENAS portal that users will be able to access via the Eplan Data Portal, that is, directly via the Eplan cloud. Eplan and CADENAS will work together to design the interface, and both companies will be engaging in continuing dialogue with component manufacturers. The advantages for users - Eplan users will benefit from a significantly expanded range of data on oer, especially for complex designs. - Design engineers will have additional options when se- lecting device data. - Data consistency throughout the engineering process also increases. Following the signing of the agreement, the technical implementation is getting started. In the coming months, both partners will set up technical working groups to define the specific measures with a view to gradually expanding the cooperation. The goal is to deliver added value for common customers along the value chain. Eplan Managing Director Haluk Menderes and CADENAS Managing Director Terry Jonen signed the new technology partnership agreement.
For more information visit: www.eplan.co.za
Robust M12 power connectors for industrial applications Automation specialist LÜTZE, based in Germany, has introduced a new series of rugged M12 circular power connectors for field wiring. The new connectors have been developed for demanding industrial applications and oer high eiciency, reliability, and ease of installation – ideal for use in automation, control technology, and mechanical engineering.
High performance for a wide range of applications The LÜTZE M12 Power connectors are designed for conductor cross-sections up to 2.5 mm· and cable diameters up to 13 mm. They ensure a secure and vibration-resistant connection with 360° shielding for reliable EMC protection. Both male and female straight connectors with L, T, K, and S coding are available for applications with dc 63 V / 12-16 A or ac 690 V / 12-16 A. Ferruled and solid wires can be terminated using the quick push-in technology, and stranded wires use the easy-to-open tabs for termination which are colour coded for easy identification. The M12 Power connectors are ideal for applications in automation technology, mechanical and plant engineering, robotics, and power distribution. They combine robust design with easy handling – a well-engineered solution for reliable power transmission in industrial environments. RS Components is a distributor for Friedrich Lütze GmbH products in South Africa.
The new LÜTZE M12 Power connectors ensure reliability under harsh conditions.
The new LÜTZE M12 Power connectors have a durable housing made of nickel-
plated brass, providing reliable protection against dust, moisture, and mechanical stress. With an IP65 protection rating and an operating temperature range from -40°C to +85°C, they can be used in harsh environmental conditions. The innovative push- in technology with spring connection enables simple, tool-free and intuitive installation, reducing assembly times by up to 30% – an eicient solution for modern control cabinet and machine construction.
For more information visit: www.luetze.com
10 Electricity + Control FEBRUARY 2026
Drives, motors + switchgear
Africa’s world-class service provider for rotating equipment
Last year, MechChem Africa , sister publication of Electricity + Control in the Crown Publications stable, visited the Cleveland facility of Marthinusen & Coutts, a division of ACTOM (Pty) Ltd, and spoke to Marketing Executive, Mike Chamberlain, about the business’s comprehensive on- and o-site service, repair, remanufacturing and testing oering. We share the report here, with acknowledgements to MechChem Africa .
Form-wound copper stator coils being installed for a motor at Marthinusen & Coutts’ Cleveland facility.
F ounded in 1954 by a group of recognised leaders in the repair and servicing of electric motors, Marthinusen & Coutts (M&C) has grown into a trusted service provider for the remanufacturing, repair and maintenance of rotating equipment, most notably for the rewinding of medium and low voltage ac and dc motors, generators, transformers and coils, along with advanced testing. “We oer a full range of electrical and mechanical services across all industries. We have extensive capabilities in power generation and mechanical engineering from seven well- equipped repair workshops in Southern Africa that now employ almost 450 people,” says Mike Chamberlain, the business’s marketing executive. As well as the 9 500 m· Cleveland workshop in Johannesburg, M&C has a 14 000 m· workshop in Benoni and a facility in Rustenburg. “We also operate through other ACTOM outlets across Africa, including in Kitwe, Zambia, GEC in Harare, Zimbabwe, and Namibian Armature Rewinders in Walvis Bay, among others,” he says. “In addition to being a leading repair business for all sizes of motors and generators, we have a sister division on the mechanical side, ACTOM Turbo Machines, for repairing and re-engineering turbines and all types of large rotating machines,” he adds. What makes M&C di erent? First and foremost, M&C has an Africa-wide network of people with
the skills and experience to manage complex projects on sites all over the continent, says Chamberlain. “We can quickly respond to customers’ needs, be they on-site repairs and refurbishments of large motors or motor/generator rewinding and refurbishments at one of our facilities.” For very large machines, the Benoni facility includes a 140 t Wagner lathe that can accommodate a 40 t, 11 m workpiece with a swing of 3.2 m. “We have also invested in specialised equipment and tooling for coil retaining ring removal, and we have a 90 t crane capacity and 1 000 t hydraulic presses for very large salient pole coils used for hydro and synchronous generators. At our Cleveland operation, we have the best-equipped rotating electrical machines load test facility in Africa and a 32 t balancing machine. “For windings, four insulation systems can be accommodated, along with three dierent vacuum pressure impregnation (VPI) systems for void-free insulation, which enhances the dielectric and mechanical strength of the windings and delivers improved thermal conductivity.” M&C’s electro-mechanical testing facilities are the most comprehensive in Africa. “We oer full load testing of HV, LV and dc equipment, and on-site diagnostics, including electromagnetic core imperfection detection (ELCID) testing, turbine vibration analysis (TVA), partial discharge (PD) monitoring, and rotor flux analysis, among other testing services.
Continued on page 12
FEBRUARY 2026 Electricity + Control
11
Drives, motors + switchgear
Continued from page 11
“We also have a very skilled and well-equipped field service team that oers 24-hour field service support for breakdowns and continuous improvement programmes for our customers,” Chamberlain adds. Notable projects M&C installs, services and repairs gearless mill drives across the continent and has been involved in projects as far away as Panama and Indonesia. Chamberlain describes a recent installation of new GMDs at copper mines. One of its clients, a Perth-based mining client, has mines around the world, including in Kansanshi and Kalumbila, both in northern Zambia, and Minera, Panama. M&C was contracted to interconnect the electrical sub-assemblies for nine new ABB gearless mill drives for a copper project in Panama. This mine’s life is estimated at more than 30 years, and it produces copper, gold and molybdenum, says Chamberlain, adding that M&C has become the preferred provider of GMD services to this mining house. On the power generation side, he cites a success at the N’Zilo hydroelectric power station on a 26 MW, 18-pole stator rewind for a vertical ac synchronous generator, in a very remote and isolated location in the DRC. “The stator’s internal diameter was over five metres, so we had to repair it on site. Further complicating the work, the stator was lap-wound, which required a high level of expertise. We have the necessary equipment and skills to carry out such on-site repairs eectively, including in the DRC and elsewhere in Africa,” Chamberlain says. On the service side, he notes that M&C has held several long-standing maintenance contracts for independent power stations, including a hydropower station with 4×45 MW Siemens generators, and gas turbine-generator plants for electricity generation in the Western Cape, units that play a critical role in regulating maximum demand and meeting Cape Town’s supply targets. The reverse engineering approach M&C’s design team, led by Rob Melaia, is considered to be the top motor design team in Africa. “They check the winding design of every motor or generator we rewind, looking for ways to improve reliability and performance. Our engineering teams have the experience and ability to apply practical insights gained from years of repairing and analysing motors across various industries. “They can make winding design improvements, using the latest technology and modern insulation materials, which enables motors to run cooler, more eiciently and potentially with increased output in terms of speed, torque or power. “Most importantly, though, this reverse engineering approach enables us to engineer out known failure points of the rotating equipment entrusted to us, with a key focus on reducing heat generation and minimising the risks of insulation breakdown, which are the primary enemies of motor performance and longevity,” says Chamberlain. M&C also designs and manufactures specialised motors as and when required by customers.
For very large machines, the Benoni facility includes a 140 t Wagner lathe that can accommodate a 40 t, 11 m workpiece with a swing of 3.2 m.
Final assembly of a remanufactured motor.
M&C offers full load testing of HV, LV and dc equipment, and on-site diagnostics.
For more information visit: www.mandc.co.za
12 Electricity + Control FEBRUARY 2026
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36www.electricityandcontrolmagazine.co.za
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker