Wire & Cable India Emagazine Jan-Feb 2020

Polycab: Striving to Achieve Sustainable Growth

Known for producing wires and cables, electric fans, lighting and luminaries, switches and switchgears, solar products, conduits and accessories, Polycab is striving to achieve a sustainable growth rate.

In an exclusive interview given to Wire & Cable India, Mr. Inder T. Jaisinghani, Chairman and Managing Director, Polycab India Limited, talks about the new developments that took place at Polycab during the last year and the company's future targets.

Excerpts.

Wire&CableIndia:Whatnew developmentstookplaceatPolycab duringthelastyear?

ITJ: Although the market was not very lively last year, we had a good market share. We currently have quite a few pending orders. The company continuestoperformwell.

WCI:Whatareyoutargetsforthe year2020?

ITJ: It's hard for me to speak on it, as I don'tknowexactlywhatthefuturehas in store for us. All I can say is that we will try to grow more. The market is not lively, and the GDP growth rate is sluggishatthemoment.Well,wecan't change the market conditions. But we at Polycab are striving to achieve sustainablegrowth.

WCI:Doyouthinkmarketconditionswillimproveinthenext,let's say,coupleofyears?

ITJ: The market will pick up in the coming two to three years. We are trying to expand our network to reach out to new markets. We are working onit.

WCI:Couldyoutellusalittlebit aboutthecablesyoumake?

ITJ: We are the only company in India which makes the full range of cables – right from house wiring cables to mining cables and railway cables. We make all kinds of cables.Today, the solar sector is growing by leaps and bounds. So, we areinthesolarlineaswell.

WCI:Whatisthebasicphilosophy thatunderliesmanufacturingin yourcompany?

ITJ: Wearelookingforprojectswhere we can get the maximum share of the profit.Currently,weareintomanufac-

turing complete range of cables which weofferastotalsolutionsinanyof the projects. More and more people want full solutions. So we are looking for full solutions with an eye on quality, power-saving and service. See, supply is not the only important part of our business. Product features such as durability and power conservation are equally important. The bottom line is thatpeoplewantfullqualitysolutions. And we provide such solutions for them.

Wearealsolookingintostuff likehow to lay the cable and how to connect cable so that power consumption is as less as possible. Not many people know how to connect a cable securely. Theyjustshovethewireinandtighten the nut. This creates sparking, which consequently causes fire. So we are trying to educate our customers on how to connect cables securely. We are also trying to make cables that are saferandmoredurable.

WCI:Therehasbeenaspurtinfire accidentsintherecentpast.Shortcircuitsaretheprimecausebehind fireaccidents.Whathaveyoutosay forthisissue?

ITJ: You see, when it comes to buying cables, people usually go for very cheap cables. They don't realize that quality matters the most. It is the quality of the raw material on which the overall quality of a cable depends. Quality also depends on how you process the materials. In brief, you should know how to make cables. To improve the quality of our cables, we have gone for backward integration. We are nowadays making our own copper, our own polymers. We have gone for it because we know that the younger generation wants to buy only quality products. And they will ask for immediate supply and quality service. Of course, quality raw materials and efficient processes call for a greater

investment. Right now customers need to be educated on the importance of quality. They should be told that cheap and inferior-quality productsareneithersafenordurable.

WCI:Howwillyourecommendthe bestsolutiontothecustomer?

ITJ: We have started a new division called Solution Provider which will enable us to perform this task. We are taking young electrical engineers for this purpose. We will train them. See, this is a long journey, and we have made a beginning. We have hired only seventy people now in this area. But we will hire many more. They will educate the customers at the district level on various aspects of cables. Their job is to tell the customers why they should buy a specific cable. They will educate them on safety factors. They will visit builders, interior decorators, electric consultants, utilities, etc. You see, a cable's life is around 30 to 40 years. If you buy a cablethatlastsforjust2to3years,you are making a mistake. Cable is basically a technical product. A lot depends on its quality and the processes that were employed for its production. Many people are not aware of such things. That is not their mistake because nobody ever educated them on the finer aspects of cables. So, we have made a positive beginning in this area; and within five years from now, we will educate people in every nook and corner on cables.

WCI:Couldyoutellusalittlebit aboutthehigh-voltagecable segment?

ITJ: With rising urbanization, the demand of power will increase. And we will need a huge amount of EHV cables to transmit power. In the coming 10 to 15 years, demand in the EHVsegmentwillincreasebecauseof

INTERVIEWS

infrastructure development. There is good business potential in extra high voltage (EHV) cables. Currently, we producepowercablesupto220kV.We mayconsider400kVinfuture.

WCI:Isthereanythingelseyou wouldliketoadd?

ITJ: Today,themarketisslowbecause of low GDP growth. But we need to think.We need not worry because we've got a young population in the country and demand for our products isgoingtopickup.Manycountriesare now looking at India because our Prime Minister has been able to establish good relations with them. These countries are going to invest in India.So,India'sfutureisbright.

Tata Steel - Global Wires India: Planning Expansion of Capacity for Wire Rod

The company is planning capacity expansion for wire rod and focusing on products such as galvanized wires, LRPC strands, tyre bead and spring wires.

In an exclusive interview given to Wire & Cable India, Anurag Pandey, Chief Marketing & Sales, Wires Division, Tata Steel, talks about the company's plans for expansion of capacities for wire rod and setting up new mills in the near future.

Excerpts.

Wire&CableIndia:Couldyoutell usalittlebitaboutTataSteel'swires division,productrangeandthemajor milestonesithasachievedsofar?

Anurag Pandey: Global Wires India (GWI) is one of the largest steel wire manufacturers in the country with an annual manufacturing capacity of 0.4 million tonnes. We have industrial facilities in Tarapur, Jamshedpur and Pithampur, which produce quality products.

Our product portfolio includes products such as galvanized wires, motor tyre bead wires, LRPC strands, PCwire,springwireandbindingwire, which serve the rural, automotive and infrastructure customers amongst many others. Depending on the customers' needs and scale, they are serviced either directly, or through our network of over 50 channel partners, or through an 8,000-strong dealer networkspreadacrossthecountry. You will find our products all around you. Our LRPC strands have been used in all major metros, bridges and flyovers across the country. Every

secondtwo-wheelerinthecountryhas suspensions made from our spring wire, and every third tyre uses our motor tyre bead. Our work has been recognized at various forums, and we have won many awards. The market recognizes us as a “Superbrand” for ourwork.

WCI:Couldyoutellusaboutthe sectorsthatarecrucialforyour business?

AP: Automotive, infrastructure and farming are the main sectors for our business. The auto sector has seen a slowdown this year but is expected to pick up gradually after the BS-VI transition. The infrastructure segment is also expected to grow with the government's focus on building infrastructure to kick start the economy. The farming sector has segments like agriculture, fencing and poultry, which have their ups and downs through the year. This year has been slightly sluggish for farming because of weather extremities and liquidity issues. This situation is likely to improve in the next FY with the government's focus on increasing the incomeof thefarmers.

WCI:HowhasbeentheperformanceofTataSteel'swiresdivision duringFY2019-20?

AP: As mentioned earlier, two of our key segments experienced a slowdown during this financial year. The market has been challenging, but our customers have continued to treat us as their preferredsupplier.Wehavebeenableto sustain our volumes and grow in some key segments. The strategy of being close to the customers by focusing on down streaming and foraying into services and solutions has helped us in counteringmarketvolatility.Morethan 10 percent of our steel wire business revenues come from services and solutions.

WCI:Areyouplanningtoinvestin capacityexpansion,plantaddition, ortechnologyupgradation?

AP: Going forward, we will work

towards enhancing our market share in line with the growth opportunities availableinthemarket.

WCI:Couldyoutellusaboutthe limitingfactorsthatareimpeding thegrowthofthesteelwireindustryinIndia?Howdoyouthinkthese issuescouldbeaddressed?

AP: The limited availability of good quality wire rods was a major stumblingblockforthegrowthof steelwire industry in India. We expect this issue to be addressed with new mills and additional capacities planned in the nearfuture.

WCI:Isthereanythingelseyou wouldliketoadd?

AP: As per our fundamentals, we keep working towards creating a sustainable business. Over the last several months, wehaveworkedonincreasingthegreen cover in our plants with concepts like 'MiyawakiForest'.Wearealsoworking towards zero liquid discharge in our units.Theseandseveralsuchinitiatives have helped us get certified by CII as 'Gold' rated Green Company. We are committed to increasing our work towardsasustainableenvironmentand givingbacktothesociety.

DMB:

Making it in the Metals Business

The debate over the pros and cons of aluminium v/s copper conductors has been discussed for many years. These metals are the two most commonly used materials for conductors in electrical equipment. Each has positive and negative characteristics that affect their use in various applications.

In an exclusive interview given to Wire & Cable India, Mohamed Al Ahmedi, General Manager, DMB, mentioned that Ducab Metals Business (DMB), ever at the crest of market waves, offers both copper and aluminium rods wires and value added products from its dedicated facilities in the UAE. In fact, it is the only company in the Middle East and Northern Africa region to do so.

Excerpts:

Wire&CableIndia:Tellusabout Ducab'snewentity–DucabMetals Business(DMB)?

Mohammed Al Ahmedi: DMB is a newly launched UAE-based metals companythatispartof DucabGroup, providing high quality copper and aluminium industrial products through its subsidiaries Ducab Aluminium Company (DAC), and Ducab Copper Rod Plant. Our aim is to boost the future the metal business, enabling us to provide more focus and consistency in serving our customers globally with best in class solutions. The parent company Ducab as you know, is equally owned by Investment Corporation of Dubai, and Senaat of AbuDhabi.

WCI:Throwsomelightonthe strategythatisbeingadoptedin DMB?

MAA: Our main strategy is to offer our customers a differentiator, which gives them an edge in the finished products they provide to their customers. We ultimately intend to support our clients in their growth and expansionjourney.

This differentiation starts at the beginning of the manufacturing process, where state-of-the-art technology and highly skilled workers

create products of unparalleled quality. This is combined with exceptional feedstock, world-class processes and finished-product control. We work with recognized independent entities to test these products in our company's pioneering laboratory. As a result, DMB products are certified by the world's leading metals and cables authorities, including the British Approvals Service for Cables(BASEC).

Eventually, our ambition is to drive the growth of DMB through relationship-based sales, the best after-sales service,andanunwaveringfocusonthecustomervalue.

WCI:Briefusonthemanufacturingcapabilities, productsyouofferandtheUSP.

MAA: Wearethelargestmetalmanufacturingcompanyin our region. We have the capacity to produce 175,000 tonnes of copper rod per year which is equivalent to USD$1.05 billion in sales value, and 50,000tonnes pa of aluminium capacity which is equivalent to USD$100 million in sales value. Another major benefit to DMB is that we have one of the best technologies for copper manufacturing. Our 8mm electrolytic touch pitch (ETP) copperrodsareproducedusingCONTIRODtechnology,a continuous process involving melting, casting and rolling. The final result is a high-quality metallurgical structure, which is then coiled onto pallets and shrink-wrapped to avoid any damage during shipment. We produce a full range of bunched copper wire products, tailormade to each customer's requirements, for use in building wires and cables, and customized flexible copper conductors with smallerwiresizesforaddedflexibility.Theseareusedinthe cable industry, in earthing applications and transformer end-connections. Tinned copper conductors find their application in special cable products offered to the nuclear, marineandoil&gasindustry.

In terms of our aluminium products, our EC grade aluminium rods are 99.7% pure and the production complies with the most stringent requirements of ASTMB 233-97. Our aluminium and aluminium alloy rods are used for cables, wires, and a variety of AAC, AAAC and ACSR overheadconductors.

For a consistent supply of aluminium we have developed a solid, long-term partnership with Abu Dhabi based Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), the world's largest premiumaluminiumproducer.Weuseliquidaluminiumat DAC, which is supplied at 760°C directly from EGA – this offers greater efficiency for the manufacturing process. We're very conscious of the need to be more sustainable in everything we do, and so environmentally friendly processesareusedthroughoutDAC.

We also have the strategic technological partnership with Southwire, USA that enables us to offer quality products with good service, which further contributes to the edge we offerourcustomers.

WCI:WhatkindofpresencedoyouhaveintheIndian market?

MAA: India is a strong market, and one that we want to expand our metals business within. The increase in our production capacity is giving us the ability to serve more customers with better response time, offering them an integrated supply chain, high quality product coupled with smart financial instruments. All of these features have given us the advantage to expand further into India, as well as other markets. We are proud of the relationship we have with India's cable companies, and we leverage this year on year to strengthening our footprint in the market. There is considerable promise within this market, and we are keen tomaximizeourpresence.

Moreover, we saw a gap in the higher-end of the market as Indian cable manufacturers increasingly become more quality conscious and have been offering 3rd party approved cables to export markets which require stringent

TIRUPATI REELS PVT. LTD.

Size Range: 600 mm to 3000 mm Production Capacity: 30,000 Reels/Month

Tirupati Reels Pvt. Ltd.

TIRUPATI GROUP

Largest Manufacturer of Pinewood Reels in India for Cable, Wire & Wire Ropes Industries www.ttplgroup.in

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Email: marketing@ttplgroup.in,info@ttplgroup.in

INTERVIEWS

quality to meet global standards. Another big advantage is that the copper rod offered through our CONTIROD technology offers the best-in-class solutions for the HV/EHV cable making which is required increasingly by ourIndiancustomers.

Our premium copper and aluminium rod portfolio from DMB provide our customers with the level of confidence theyneedtocompeteglobally.

WCI:Whatareyourviewsonthecompetitionfromthe Indiancopper&aluminiumrodmanufacturers?

MAA: Anywhere you go in the world there will always be competition. Competition is healthy – we welcome it, as it encourages us to push ourselves into providing the best quality products and services to our customers. This commitment to continually pushing the boundaries of quality and innovation differentiates DMB from the other offerings in the market. It gives us the chance to showcase ourabilitytoaddvalueforourcustomers.Cablemakersare very smart; they evaluate their metal suppliers, and qualify themonthebasisof thebestproductsandservicessupplied to them. In the current market, it is not about the price any more – cable makers are looking for the total package of quality and value-add in terms of timely and consistent supplies

WCI:Whatisyourcorestrength?

MAA: DMB has a very strong foundation in Ducab Group, which is known internationally for its 40 yearlong legacy of delivering exemplary quality and service. We are aligning our backward supply chain with the

Group's strong manufacturing base. The Ducab Group's ethos is to take pride in our work, and to deliver work that makes us, and the UAE, proud. We seek to set the highest quality standards, utilize the expertise of a skilled workforce, and operate from technologically advanced facilities across the UAE. Through the dynamism of our strong capability to offer value-added products, we are able to give our customers an advantage. Naturally this is a priority for us, as so we are continually focused on maintaining a strong supply chain and offering smarter solutions.

WCI:ArethereanyexpansionplansatDucabMetals business?

MAA: Like any other agile business, we are always on the lookout for the growth prospects. At present we are analyzing global market trends to make knowledgeempowered decisions for the future of our business. Both our copper and aluminium smelters are geared for further expansion as and when needed to service our global customerbase.

WCI:DoesDucabMetalsBusiness(DMB)haveany planstosetupaplantinIndia?

MAA: India has always been one of our top markets to supply copper and now aluminium rods as raw material for the local cable industry, and other allied industries. We have good relations with India's cable makers, which we aim to grow further. We are constantly evaluating the market to determine what will be the best move for DMB, Ducab,and,of course,ourcustomers.

The Wire and Cable Industry: Fighting the Fire

We rely heavily on electricity to power our

homes, businesses and – for a growing number of people – our cars. If there is one thing that is making forays into ever newer sectors of our lives, it is electricity.Theglobalconsumptionof energyin2018wasa whopping 62 billion kWh per day! In many parts of the world, especially in developing countries, new appliances, gizmosandgadgetsaregraduallyincreasingtheloadonthe electrical infrastructure that was installed when the buildingswereconstructed.

The increasing use of electricity has made our world extremely susceptible to electrical fires. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, between 2014 and 2016, electrical fires accounted for 6.3 percent of all residential fires, with approximately 24,000 fires being reported each year.

The scenario of electrical accidents in India is far grimmer. Around 90 percent of fire-related accidents in the country are caused by electricity. In Russia, around 3,000 lives are lost every year because of electrical fires. The lives lost in the US are in a few 100s whereas the lives lost in India run into thousands. As per the data provided by the Indian Copper Association India (ICA-India), the year 2016-17 witnessed 11,444 electrical accidents. Of this, 4,799 caused deaths while 2,309 resulted in injuries and yet others involveddeathsof 4,296animals.

Workplace accidents report nearly 13 electrocution deaths on an average day in India. This is the highest in the world. It is worth noting that the annual average of electric-related deaths in workplaces in the United Kingdom and the United States is 8 and 82 respectively. The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) data attributes nearly 40 percentof deathsattheworkplacetoelectricalissues.

SPECIAL FEATURE

Around42percentof firesarecausedbydefectiveelectrical systems. Loose or improper wiring, substandard electrical fittings,andpoormaintenanceof wiringtriggermostshortcircuit fires. The situation is graver with regard to old buildings where electrical infrastructure has not been upgraded to bear new load for various uses. It should be noted that old homes generally had stuff like stoves, iron boxes, fans, fridges, geysers, etc. Today's households within the same premises have acquired air-conditioners, cell phones,computers,microwaveovens,cameras,hairdryers, hot-water bags, massagers and various other gadgets – and all of them need to be plugged in for frequent charging, which puts additional burden on the system. According to statisticsfromICA-India,amongallthestructuresinwhich fire accidents were reported, about 35 percent occurred in old buildings. In a majority of old buildings, wiring has not been upgraded at all. Increase in load, fatigued installations, degraded insulation and poor maintenance generally endupcausingelectricalfires.

However, when it comes to short circuits, these are not the only issues. According to ICA-India, a quarter of the electricity-related accidents could be attributed to code violation, poor circuit designing and inadequate wire sizing. Untrained and unskilled workers account for 20 per cent of such incidents. A similar percentage is responsible forpoormaintenanceandobsolescenceof components.

Electrical fires have their genesis in electric wires, cables, circuit breakers and electrical components. More often thannotsuchfiresstartinelectricalpanelsfromoverloaded circuits or age of the panel. The panel and circuits become overloaded when the distribution of electricity is inadequate. Lighting equipment becomes a dangerous source of heatwhenitistooclosetoeasilycombustiblematerials.

Electrical Safety

With increasing urbanization, issues of safety and efficiency in old buildings and upcoming housing enclaves need to be adequately addressed. As we already know, Indian Commerce Association (ICA-India), which was set up in 1998, has been propagating safe wiring practices in the building construction sector with increased awareness of power quality. It conducts workshops across the country in collaboration with several bodies. It also publishes training manuals for in-depth knowledge on the benefits of copperanditsuseintechnology.Sofarithastrained15,000 electricians and electrical contractors through seminars on “ElectricalSafetyinBuildings”inlocallanguages.ICAhas also completed familiarization campaign for the National ElectricalCodeof Indiain16cities.

Many wire and cable companies across the world have been focusing on electrical safety. Cables have been developed that enhance electrical safety. In various combinations they reduce flame propagation, the smoke emitted and the dangerous gasses emitted; they even maintainanelectricalsupplywhileburning.

Cables for Fire Safety

Fire rated cables – also referred to as circuit integrity cables or fire-resistive cables – are cables capable of functioning in the presence of fire for a specified period under defined conditions. These cables are specifically designed to maintain circuit integrity and for interconnections of various compartments within large buildings or complexes during a fire outbreak. They are excellent flame retardants known for their favorable characteristics such as excellent electricalandmechanicalproperties.

Fire-resistant cables are typically constructed in the following format: Standard Annealed Copper Conductor; Glass Mica Tape Fire Resisting Barrier; Cross-linked Polyethylene/ Ethylene Propylene Rubber insulated/Silicon Rubber/Ethylene Vinyl Acetate/ Polyethylene/Poly Vinyl Chloride Primary insulation; and Low Smoke Halogen free or Flame Retardant PVC Sheathing.

These cables are easy to install cables that play an important role in assuring the orderly shutdown of systems and evacuation of building occupants. They are capable of maintaining continuity as well as circuit integrity of

Cables for Fire Safety

FlameRetardant

FireResistant(FR)

LowSmokeand Fume(LSF)

LowSmokeZero Halogen(LSZH) Alternativenamesfor LSZH:LSZO(LowSmoke ZeroHalogen),0HLS (ZeroHalogenLow Smoke),LSHF(Low SmokeHalogenFree)

Thesecablesaredesignedforuseinfire situations where the spread of flames alongacablerouteneedstoberetarded.

Thesecablesaredesigned tomaintain circuit integrity of vital emergency servicesduringafire.

Thesecablesburnwithverylittlesmoke andfumescomparedtostandardPVC; fumesmaycontainhalogens.

When these cables burn, there is very little smoke and fumes (compared to standard PVC); fumes contain no halogens.

SPECIAL FEATURE

electrical circuits, such as electric heaters, furnaces, ovens, heating and air conditioning equipment, kilns, cooking equipment, appliances, lighting fixtures, fire safety equipment or alarm systems for a longer duration in the event of a fire. The global fire rated cables market is estimated to be driven by safety standards in various commercial and residential buildings as well as standards that ensure the safety of roadway tunnels, refineries and transit systems. A fire rated cable consists of insulation and a fire proof layer that can survive high temperature O O rangingfrom750Cto950C.

Flame Resistance Cables and Flame

Retardant Cables: The Differences

Due to their usefulness in the event of fire, flame resistance and flame retardant cables are fast gaining popularity.Althoughtheybothsoundsimilar,theyhavemarkedly differentusesandreactdifferentlyintheeventof afire.

Also identified as a circuit integrity cable, a fire resistant cable will continue to function in the event of a fire. On the other hand, a flame retardant cable will not convey or propagate a fire. A flame resistant cable, unlike a flame retardant cable, would let the circuit stay in operation, allowing power to be transferred through it. This is why fire resistant cables are used in critical electrical circuits, such as safety circuits and life support circuits. Critical circuits are required to function in the case of emergencies.Ontheotherhand,flameretardantcablesareusedin all other circuits, primarily because if there is a fire, they can curb its spread. A flame retardant cable is designed to only restrict the spread of a fire by restraining combustion.

Low Smoke Zero Halogen Cable

Thesecablesaredesignedforincreasedsafetyinthecaseof afirebreakout.Theyhavebeendesignedinsuchaswaythat theyreducehazardousfumeswhichcancauseinjurywhen inhaled and corrosive chemicals which can cause damage to electronics. These cables are mainly used in public and government buildings and where there is sensitive electronic equipment, that is, hospitals, supermarkets, airports, controlroomsandcomputersuites.

It is worth noting that most cables used in installations have been insulated with PVC or similar materials. In a fire breakout, these insulation materials release chlorine gas, which is a poisonous gas. Chlorine gas also forms hydrochloric acid when it comes into contact with water. As we know, hydrochloric acid can have devastating effectsonadjacentequipment.

“In

all fire disasters, fire smoke, heat and toxic fumes are the main obstacles to safe evacuation of the building or area. A major contribution towards overcoming such hazards is the use of fireresistant and non-halogenated cables,” says Anil Gupta, CMD, KEI Industries Limited, in an interview given to Wire & Cable India.

Wire&CableIndia: Howarefire-resistant cablesdifferentfromfireretardantcables?How arefire-resistantand fire-retardantcables differentfromnormal cables?

Anil Gupta: In all fire disasters, fire smoke, heat and toxic fumes are the main obstacles to safe evacuation of the building or area. A major contribution towards overcoming such hazards is the use of fire-resistant and non-halogenated cables. Fireresistant cables are the ones whose basic requirement is to keep emergency equipment like exit door lighting, exhaust fans, etc., working in case of fire, thereby helping the crowd and the management to manage the incidence of fire in an appropriate manner. This is achieved through layer(s) of heat barrier tape(s) on the conductor so as to keep the circuit integrity in place even in case of major fires in population-infested buildings. KEI's fire-resistant cables have been developed to maintain circuit integrity in a fire breakout and to ensure maximum safe evacuation of personnel with no detrimental effects like toxic gases or smoke.

On the other hand, flame-retardant cables are the ones wherein the major requirement is to retard the spread of

OxygenIndex

SPECIAL FEATURE

Fire-Resistant Flame-Retardant Flame-Retardant NormalCables LowSmoke

Min.29%asper Min.29%asper Min.29%asper ASTMD-2863 ASTMD-2863 ASTMD-2863 –

TemperatureIndex Min.2500Casper Min.2500Casper Min.2500Casper ASTMD-2863 ASTMD-2863 ASTMD-2863 –

SmokeDensityRating Max.20%asper Max.60%asper – –ASTMD-2843 ASTMD-2843

AcidGasGeneration

Max.0.5%asper Max.20%asper – –IEC-754-1 IEC-754-1

fire; however, to a certain extent. In addition to this, Flame Retardant Low Smoke cables play a major role in limitingsmokeemissions.

Flame-retardant cables resist the spread of fire to new areas, while fire-resistant cables maintain circuit integrity and continue to work for a specified time under specified conditions. Fire resistant cables continue to operate in the presence of a fire and are commonly referred to as circuit integrity cables. The differences between the two ratings are significant for the critical circuits required for life safety or a safe and immediate plant shutdown. Additionally, flame-retardant cables are not rated to continue to operate in a fire, and in all probability, will not maintain circuit integrity during a fire. Whereas, normal cables are the ones wherein the emphasis is laid on

carrying current rather than how it forays in times of emergencysituationssuchasfirebreakouts.

WCI:Whatarethecomponentsoffire-resistantcables andfire-retardantcables?

AG: Thetablegivenbelowwillanswerthisquestion.

WCI:Are“green”wiresfireresistantandfireretardant?Whataretheadvantagesofgreenwires?

AG: The purpose of green wires is to ground an electrical circuit.Theyconnecttothegroundingterminalinanoutlet box and run to the ground bus bar in an electrical panel. In this way, green wires act as a failsafe, giving electricity a place to escape into the ground if a live wire within the circuittouchesmetalorsomethingelseconductive.

SPECIAL FEATURE

Depending upon the use, both fire-resistant and flameretardantwiresmaybetreatedas“GreenWires”,asboth are RoHS compliant. Moreover, for indoor (like household and public building , such as concert halls, malls, theatres, etc.) wirings, Flame Resistant /FRLS/Zero Halogen Low Smoke wires are preferred, and for open publicplaces,flame-retardantwiresarepreferred.

WCI:IstheIndianmarketforfire-resistantcables andfire-retardantcablespickingup?Don'tyouthink wireandcablemanufacturersinIndiashouldmake specialeffortstoeducatetheircustomersonthe importanceoffire-resistantcablesandfire-retardant cables?

AG: Yes, the market is definitely picking up. With more and more consumers gaining substantial knowledge about the benefits of these cables, the shift to these cables is quite visible. The demand for these cables is surely rising. Talking about educating the customers on the

To face the problems related to the release of chlorine gas, halogen-free cables are used. A halogen-free cable is typicallymadeof polypropylene,whichdoesnotproducea dangerousgasoracidinfireconditions.

Both LSZH and LSF cables are used to limit smoke, fumes and halogen given off in fire conditions. In a fire breakout, both types will emit very low levels of smoke. LSF cables will emit toxic gases while LSZH cables will limit the emission of these. The use of LSZH cables protects both people and limits the amount of equipment damage during afiresituation.

Market Trends

The global fire-resistant cable market is amazingly active. It is expected to witness a CAGR of 3.1 percent to reach USD 2.14 billion by 2024 (Source: Energias Market Research). Rising demand from end-user industries is expected to push the growth of the market in times to come. Stringent fire safety regulations mandated by the governments has also raised the demand for fire-resistant cables. It may be mentioned that the construction industry segment held the major share of the market in 2017, owing to stringent regulatory framework mandated by the governments.

Asia Pacific held the major share of the market in the year 2017. It should also be noted that Asia-Pacific is expected to register the fastest growth in the near future. This can be due to the rapidly growing construction segment and

importance of these cables, we have been the front runner in the industry. We have been educating the final user (electricians and dealers) on how the best results can be obtained through these cables. Moreover, we have been an integral part of FS cable specification designing forBISunderPowerCableAlliance.

WCI: Could you tell us about the safety standards that have been applied across the global wire and cable industry, especially the Indian wire and cable industry?

AG: Many standards have been adopted by different countries along with competent authority guidelines. However, the standards adopted majorly, internationally and locally, are BS-8519, CEA rules and regulations, NBCC Regulation, IEC-60364-5-52, to name a few. Moreover, CIGRE and IEEMA keep organizing workshops on safety across the globe with major focus ontheIndianmarket.

automotive industry of this region. Additionally, the application of flame-resistant cable as a flexible charger in electric cars is expected to give impetus to the market in this region. Rapid urbanization of countries like China, India, and South Korea is anticipated to foster significant market growthinAsia-Pacific.

Someof thekeycompaniesoperatinginthemarketinclude Tratos Limited, El Sewedy Electric Company, Leoni AG, Nexans S.A., Helkama Bica Oy, LS Cable & System Limited, NKT Group, Universal Cable (M) Berhad, TeleFonika Kable S.A., and General Cable Corporation, amongothers.

In India, the major companied operating in the market include Ravin Cables Limited, Polycab India Limited, RR Kabel, HPL Electric & Power Limited, Finolex Cables, Gupta Power, Havells India Limited, KEI Industries and AparIndustriesLimited.

Challenges and Opportunities in India

The fire-resistant as well as fire-retardant cable market in India is encouragingly active. However, as the Indian consumers are price sensitive, the cost of these types of cables can be a problem for them. Flame retardant cables can be 3-5 percent costlier than the normal PVC cables; fire resistant cables are costlier by about 15-25 percent dependingonthesize.Strikingabalancebetweenpriceandquality is one of the challenges that cable and wire companies in Indiahavebeenfacingforquitesometime.

SPECIAL FEATURE

Besides, awareness of the importance of fire-retardant cables and fire-resistant cables is still slowly growing in India. Today's builders do follow the electrical safety guidelines laid down by the government, but a majority of the owners of old building s and small mills and factories still prefer normal PVC cables to flame resistance cables andflameretardantcables.

If wire and cable companies in India want to fully avail themselves of the opportunities that the market affords, they must focus on educating the consumers on the importance of flame resistance cables and flame retardant cables. The customers need to be educated on the importance of quality; they need to be told that

“In

cheap and poor quality products are neither safe nor durable.

Polycab is one of the companies in India that are moving in the right direction. It has put together a team of young electrical engineers responsible for educating the customers at the district level on various aspects of cables, especially safety factors. Their job is to tell the customers why they should buy a specific cable. For this purpose they will visit builders, interior decorators, electric consultants, utilities, etc. Says Inder T. Jaisinghani, Chairman and Managing Director, Polycab India Limited, “We have made a positive beginninginthisarea;andwithinfiveyearsfromnow,wewill educatepeopleineverynookandcorneroncables.”

India, awareness of safety requirements is not very high, and there are no mandatory requirements. The matter receives attention only after a few major fire accidents take place. A lot of hue and cry is raised at that time, and after some time, things are back to normal,” says Vivek Chaudhari, Sr. Assistant General Manager– Sales & Marketing, Apar Industries Limited (Unit: Uniflex Cables) in an interview given to Wire & Cable India.

Wire&CableIndia:How arethefireresistant cablesdifferentfromfire retardantcables?

Vivek Chaudhari : This is a good question, as most of the people are not aware of the difference. Fire Resistant cables are constructed using a flame barrier like Mica and covered with Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) materials. They are designed to maintain circuit integrity of lighting/essential services and continue to work for 3 hours under fire conditions. They emit negligible amount of smoke and toxic gases, thereby providing good visibility, allowing the evacuation activity in the event of fire breakout. Based on past experience, it has been concluded that most of the fatalities happen due to heavy smoke and inhalation of toxic gases, not because of burning. Invariably, all emergency lighting, exit signboards, fire alarm systems, water sprinklers, etc., need to be wired using Fire Resistant cables that can provide high degree of safety. Under fire conditions, even if the LSZH

material has burned, the Mica covering over the conductor provides the basic level of insulation to maintain circuit integrity. Flame/Fire retardant cables are generally insulated with the formulated compound of PVC which is a self-extinguishing material designed to resist the further spread of fire. These cables continue to burn under fire conditions and extinguish when fire is removed. The insulation material melts under fire conditions and cannot maintain any circuit integrity.

WCI:Howarefireresistantandfireretardantcables differentfromnormalcables?

VC: Here is a comparison of the key features of various categoriesof firesafetycables.

WCI:Whatarethecomponentsoffireresistant cablesandfireretardantcables?

VC: Fire resistant cable consists of conductor wrapped with heat barrier tape (high temperature sustaining Mica tape), LSZH insulation (Cross Linked LSZH will be evenbetter),LSZHmaterialinnersheath,metallicarmor (galvanized steel wires or flat strips) and LSZH outer sheath. More heat barrier tape can be added depending on customer requirement and application. Whereas

SPECIAL FEATURE

Tests DescriptionofTest SpecifiedValues

CriticalOxygenIndex Todeterminethe%ofoxygenrequired

TemperatureIndex

SmokeDensity

tosupportcombustion

Todeterminetempatwhichnormal21% 160°C

oxygeninairwillsupportcombustion

Todeterminelighttransmissionvisibility ≈85% ≈75% <60% <20% <20% duringfire

AcidGasGeneration Toascertaintheacidgasesreleasedby ≈50% ≈40% <20% <0.5% <0.5% thematerialduringfire

FireSurvivalTest

Todetermineabilitytomaintaincircuit

integrityfor3hours

Flame Retardant cables use Formulated FR grade of PVCcompoundinplaceof LSZHmaterial,andnoMica is used over insulation. While Fire Resistant cables can maintain circuit integrity for 3 hours, Fire Retardant cablesdonotprovideanycircuitintegrity.

WCI:Aregreenwiresfireresistantandfireretardant?Whataretheadvantagesofgreenwires?

VC: Green wires use lead-free ingredients of the insulationandjacketingcompoundsandhavenothingto do with the fire performance of the cables. The LSZH as well as FR PVC compounds can be lead free (green) compounds. These compounds comply with Restrictions of HazardousSubstances(RoHS)standards.

WCI:Howcost-effectiveisittomakefireresistant cablesandfireretardantcables?

VC: Flame retardant cables use a better grade of PVC compounds and can be 3-5 percent costlier than the normal PVC cables. However, fire resistant cables are costlier by about 15-25 percent depending on the size. The higher the cross section of the cable (higher metal component), the lesser is the increase in cost for making itfireresistantorflameretardant.

WCI:IstheIndianmarketforfireresistantcablesand fireretardantcablespickingup?Don'tyouthinkwire andcablemanufacturersinIndiashouldmake specialeffortstoeducatetheircustomersonthe importanceoffireresistantcablesandfireretardant cables?

VC: The Indian market for fire resistant as well as fire retardant cables is picking up. Demand for products like fire survival cables increased as compared to last year

and is expected to go up in future. Better safety standards and awareness about safety requirements are being imposed by regulatory authorities, leading to increased use of fire resistant cables especially for commercial complexes,airports,metrorailwayprojects,hospitals,etc.

Cable manufacturers are educating customers on the importance of fire resistant cables and flame retardant cables by making in-house technical presentations to customers and by arranging technical seminars for electrical consultants, electrical contractors, technical advisors, maintenance head, technicians and government concern officers. But unless there is a regulatory, mandatoryrequirement,thisisnoteasytoimplement.

WCI:Couldyoutellusaboutthesafetystandards thathavebeenappliedacrosstheglobalwireand cableindustry,especiallytheIndianwireandcable industry?

VC: In India, awareness of safety requirements is not very high, and there are no mandatory requirements. The matter receives attention only after a few major fire accidents take place. A lot of hue and cry is raised at that time, and after some time, things are back to normal. While the wire and cable Industry has all the technical knowhow to offer fire resistant cables and fire retardant cables, due to cost considerations, the end users make compromises. There are no Indian standards for fire resistant cables, and most of the consultants in India follow the British standards or IEC specifications. However, for fire retardant cables, the Indian standards areavailableandmostof theendusershavestartedusing FR grade of cables and wires. The BIS has recently established standards for LSZH wires. These standards willhopefullybeenforcedinduecourse.

Sarvasv: Achieving Success in All Business Areas

“Our success lies in virtues like honesty, accountability, integrity and dignity. We honor the commitments made to our clients”, Vinod Kapoor, Managing Director, Sarvasv Machinery & Equipments Private Limited starts with this thought while highlighting his company's journey. He further talks about their manufacturing capabilities and plans for expansion in an exclusive interview given to Wire & Cable India.

Here are a few excerpts from the

interview.

Wire&CableIndia:Howdid Sarvasvgetintothecablemachinerybusiness?

Vinod Kapoor: Although Sarvasv was founded in 1984, our journey started much earlier. It so happened that we accidently met a Nigerian electrical contractor who wanted to set up a cable manufacturing plant in Nigeria. So, we invited him to India and visited various small-scale cable manufacturing units in India with him. He placed orders with us for machines to start domestic cable

manufacturing in Lagos. Soon, our Nigerian client gladly decided to go for bigger machines owing to the profit margin in the business. This is how Sarvasv's business journey began. The company's operations and experience soon began to grow; and that was when we decided to start exploring different global markets.

Since we were not into manufacturing, we did not consider the idea of conducting business on the domestic market. But promoting exports was not easy during the 1980s. There were too many regulations on exports, and the major challenge was convincing

theoverseasclientstopurchaseIndian machines. Luckily, we were able to create a good clientele in Bangladesh who are now among the biggest manufacturers in their country. We gradually expanded our market base andstartedprocuringmachineryfrom prominent cable machinery manufacturersbasedinIndia.

Sarvasv now exports its products to around 18 countries - Australia, Botswana, Bangladesh, Cameroon, Ghana, Iran, Kenya, Macedonia, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, South Africa, Serbia Syria, Saudi Arabia, Tanzania and UAE. Sarvasv has also undertaken a number of turnkey

basis projects in different countries, which are operating very successfully.

WCI:Couldyoutellusalittleabout yourproductportfolio?

Vinod Kapoor: We mainly focus on rotating machines. Our product portfolioincludesequipmentlikeSkip Stranding Machine, Skip Laying Machine, Rigid Stranding Line, Armoring Machine, Drum Twister, Core Laying Up Machine, Tubular Stranding Machine, Double Twist Buncher, Planetary Strander, Extrusion Line, Dual Auto Spooler AndTakeup-Payoff.

WCI:Couldyoutellusaboutyour infrastructure,workforceand manufacturingcapabilities?

Varun Kapoor: Our production unit is located at Bhiwadi, Rajasthan. The total area of our factory is spread over 12,000 sq m with covered area of 7,000 sq m. The remaining area has been set aside for future expansion.

As a group, we have a workforce of around 225 people. Our design team consists of seven employees. They are responsible for drafting and 3-D modeling. A team of three to four engineersconductsqualitychecksand

trial runs of the machines before they are delivered to the clients. We have six supervisors who have been allocated different manufacturing divisions; they have around 170 people working under them. In addition, there is a dedicated team of sixsalesandserviceengineerswhoare responsible for working at the clients' sites.

Sarvasv has a state-of-the-art facility to produce the components that are used in its machines in-house. We have an excellent mix of Indian and European machines to ensure high productivity and increased accuracy. We have five big boring machines, a 3-axis plano milling machine, three bed milling machines, conventional lathe machines, a shaper machine and a few more machines. We also have CNC plasma and gas cutting machines and two CNC turning centers. We have been expanding and upgrading to CNC-based milling and 3-axis plano milling machines. The conventional machines are more European, and our CNC machines comply with a mix of Indian and European standards.

The first stage of any machine manufacturing process is designing. Sarvasv's strong design team is equipped with the latest software, 3-

D modeling, synchronization, and so on. Our design team is responsible for creating blueprints for our machines.

Then comes the production process, which starts with the procurement and shaping of raw materials. We use CNC plasma cutting machines to make sure that no manual workforce is required. The next stage is MIG and carbon welding. On the machining part, which is the most important process in the mother machinery, we use a mix of CNC and conventional machines. The mother machinery needs high accuracy and efficiency. We have introduced a lot of automationtotheprocess.

Then comes the assembling part of the operation, which again is a critical job; and to do this job, we use specialized tools. Another important part of our operations is our skilled workforce. We have been giving our workforce regular training to improve its efficiency. Our workforce includes workers with 15 to 20 years of experience. They are simply repositories of valuable industry knowledge. The team comprises professionals from different segments with a full understanding of cables and machinery. Our operations are more processbasedthanperson-based.

INTERVIEWS

WCI:Couldyouelaborateonthe strengthsandtechnicalcapabilities ofyourmachines?

Varun Kapoor: We keep upgrading our machine technologies. Our machines fully comply with the industry standards – factors such as efficiency, speed, power consumption, performance, minimum breakdown time, etc., are taken into account. It should be noted that our business is not just about selling machines: We attach a lot of importancetoaftersalesservicesaswell.We have a team of engineers whose only job is to take care of the erection and commissioning of the machines and attendtoservicecalls.

As far as technical capabilities are concerned, we are one of the few manufactures in the world who offer Skip Stranding Machine at over 1000 RPM. This machine is capable of strandingSteel,CopperandAluminum. WehavealsomanufacturedArmoring machinesupto84/96wires.

WCI:Couldyoutellusaboutthe automationyourcompanyhasdone inthemanufacturingprocess?

VarunKapoor: Automationenablesa company to raise the efficiency level of a machine. It raises the ROI on the machine and pulls down power consumption and workforce require-

ment. Over the last four to five years, we have invested heavily in automation. As a result, we now have PLCcontrolled machines. A PLCcontrolled machine has features and functions that enable operators and the management to get data from the machineforathoroughanalysis.

WCI:Haveyoubeenableto implementIoTandIndustry4.0in yourcompany?

Varun Kapoor: We are focusing on implementing IoT and Industry 4.0 in our company to improve the efficiency of our machines, adding new features for our clients. The data in the machines is seamless and can be taken to the cloud for further analysis thereby helping our clients understand the intricacies of a particular machine in real time. These solutions will enable us to capture the data and use it to our advantage. One of advantages of implementing these solutions is that the data can now be used by different stakeholders of the factory. To procure specific solutions for wire and cable rotating machines, we have contacted vendors like SiemensandABB.

Youmayfindthisinteresting-Inoneof our pilot projects, we did not send our commissioning engineer to the client's site,outsideIndia.Aftercompletingthe

trial, we delivered the machine to the client, who installed it as per the drawing. And we executed the commissioning remotely from our site! We can now keep a tab on the performanceof theentiremachineonline.

In addition, we are in the process of adopting ERP systems – similar to SAP – specifically at the production level. We are working on it and implementing automation step by stepinourmanufacturingprocess.

WCI:WhatisyourplanforexpandingSarvasv'smanufacturing capabilitiesandproductrange?

Sumit Kapoor: We intend to develop bigger machines, such as double twist buncher up to 2 meters – something that has not been done in India before. Ourteamisworkingonthetechnological and design parts of it. We intend to collaborate with some companies to get on with this task. Also, we have developed drum twisters up to 2.8 meters and intend to develop twisters up to 3.6 meters as well. We are also planning to invest in infrastructure, shed space, CNC machines, automation, skill training and acquisition of moreskilledprofessionals.

WCI:Couldyoutellusalittlebit moreaboutyourhumanresource practices?

Amit Kapoor: We try to ensure that our employees are provided with adequate training and a conducive working environment. We give new recruits adequate technical training through our induction programs. During the induction, we tell the recruits about our product line, business operations and manufacturing processes. In addition, we conduct various extracurricular activities for our employees. We have a dedicated Labor welfare officer to take care of our employees. We don't mind investingonourworkers.

RR Kabel: Going Beyond Business

RR Global has been focusing on spreading literacy in rural India by setting up schools, rehabilitating families that have faced nature's wrath and improving the skills of future generations.

Mission RRoshni is RR Global's endeavor to achieve an empowered and educated India. It aims to improve the lives of people by supporting causes such as education, disaster relief and skill development. One of the main goals of Mission RRoshni is providing a better future for millions of villagers living in the dark. RR Kabel will contribute Rs. 1 from every RR Kabel pack sold to light up villages in India.

So far 1400-plus rural schools have been set up. These schools have lit up the minds of around 2.5 lakhs children.

RR Global has been proudly spreading smiles across the country with the help of its partner NGOs and charitable trusts.

In a brief interview given to Wire & Cable India, Kirti Kabra, Director, RR Global, talks about this wonderful mission.

Excerpts.

Wire&CableIndia:Whatistheideabehind MissionRRoshini?

Kirti Kabra: See, we have always been engaged in CSR. We have done quite a bit of good work in this area. But nobody knows about it. The idea behind Mission RRoshini is to let the world know about it andtoinspireotherstodothesame.Wetrytobringin light in terms of education, women empowerment, healthaidsandacquisitionof lifestyleskills.Allthatis aimed at bringing light into the lives of villagers. We focus on tribal areas where people are deprived of basic facilities. In urban areas, we have started giving financial support to women who want to start their own business. Till now it is a pan-India activity, but it mayturnglobal.

WCI:Howmanyvillagershavebenefittedfrom yourCSRactivities?

KK: Up till now we have educated around 2.5 lakh children in some tribal areas through our oneteacher-school initiative. We sponsor around 1,400 schoolseveryyear.

WCI:Whathaveyoutosayforfireaccidents causedbyelectricity?

KK: We can attribute such accidents to carelessness and lack of concern for quality. A lot of such hazards will vanish if we are quality-conscious. Using substandard products, especially electrical products, is very dangerous. But many people usually do not bother about quality standards. Public awareness about quality, therefore, needs to be raised. We at RR Kabel are making special efforts to tackle this problem. We have been educating end consumers on quality standards. Thankfully, they have responded well to our initiative.

Universal Cables Limited: Quality Pays in the Long Run

One of the most reputed and largest cable manufacturing companies in India, Universal Cables Limited (UCL) manufactures electrical products like extra high voltage, medium voltage, control and instrumentation cables, power capacitors, automatic power factor control and relay panels, etc.

In an absorbing interview given to Wire & Cable India, Amitava Bose, Chief Operating Officer, Universal Cables Limited, talks about the recent performance of his company, the new developments that have taken place in the company, the challenges that the wire and cable industry will face in times to come and his future targets.

Excerpts.

Wire&CableIndia:CouldyoutellusaboutUCL's recentperformance?

AmitavaBose: Our performance during 2018 to 2019 was one of the best performances in the last 20 years. We are doing very well this year as well. We have a strong order booking with a good product-mix to carry us forward. Despite the economic slowdown, we have cruised quite smoothly this year and I hope that the ending of the year 2020wouldbeasgoodasthatof thepreviousyear.

WCI:Whatnewdevelopmentshaverecentlytaken placeinyourcompany?

AB: One of the new developments is in the coveted market segment of 400kV cable; and in the next fiscal year, we expect to supply a very large quantity of 400kV cable to a power utility in India and install the same. Initially, we had a technical tie-up with Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd., Japan, for technology transfer for Extra High Voltage (EHV) cables manufacturing using VCV manufacturing technology and the know-how for the complete system for underground power transmission system. The VCV technologyisavailabletotechnicallyadvancedglobalcable manufacturers. The EHV segment is to be seen as a complete system including cable jointing technology along withotherassociatedcomponents.Thetechnologytransfer from Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd. has been completed. Our association with Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd. has given us the fillip to execute a large number of projects up to 220kV, thereby making ourselves independent and more secure in terms of technology. As the next step, we have entered into a technical tie-up with NKT GmbH & Co. KG, Germany, in our endeavor to commercialize 400kV-500kV EHV cables which is the highest voltage class in the world. In some countries, it is 400kV; and in some countries, it is 500kV–accordingtothesystemtheyhaveadopted.

WCI:Couldyoutellusaboutthemachineryorequipmentyouhaveinstalledfor400kVatyourfacility?

AB: We have the Vertical Continuous Vulcanizing technology, which is popularly known as the VCV process. This has been adopted in many advanced countries – Japan and a few European countries. We have adopted the same technology in India. The VCV process has many advantages over the conventional CCV process. Of course, VCV technology is much superior to CCV technology and that is the reason for our choosing the VCV technology. Worldwide, in many of the customer's specifications, it is mentioned that the product has to be manufactured using

the VCV process. We have two VCV lines, one from Troester, Germany, and the other from Maillefer, Finland. We are also planning to install the third VCV line to further increase our capacity. So, right now, we have the largest capacity of Extra High Voltage cable manufacturing in the country. The two lines provide redundancy to maintain continuous production in the event of stoppage of one line so the customer is sure of the security of supplies. And, of course, the third line would level our capacity to that of any of thelargestmanufacturersintheAsianregion.

The other important aspect is the metallic sheathing technology, which is for water protection, impact resistance and path for the system fault current. We have all varieties: sheathing with lead, corrugated aluminum, smooth aluminum and aluminum tape. It is worth mentioning that we have a unique facility of providing seamless corrugated or smooth aluminum sheath by the extrusion process without welding as provided by most manufacturers. By providing seamless aluminum sheath, no weak spots or pin holes exist in the whole aluminum sheath. Most of today's companies across the world use the welded process, but we can provide a superior seamless extrusion process. In India, we are the only company that has this extrusion process for providing seamless sheathing with

INTERVIEWS

aluminum. The other process we do is the lead sheathing process.We have two lead sheathinglineswhichhereagain provide similar redundancy to maintain continuity of production even in a situation where one line is under breakdownormaintenance.

Tosummarize,wehavetwoverticallinesforextrusion,two lines for corrugated aluminum sheathing and two lines for lead sheathing providing complete process redundancy. We also have two independent EHV testing laboratories, apart from other testing laboratories for medium and low voltages cables. So, if you see the total chain, you will find that we have built in redundancy right from start to finish fortheEHVmanufacturingprocess.

WCI:Whatareyourfuturetargets?

AB: In2020,weexpectthecompanytogrowby20percent. The area where growth is expected to take place is the extra high voltage segment. As you know, the extra high voltage cable segment is a project-based business; therefore, there are a lot of issues to be tackled, such as obtaining right of way and fund availability to the utility. As you know, today, underground power transmission is the only alternative in urban areas without which further urban development is notpossible.

WCI:Whatchallengeswillthewireandcableindustry faceintimestocome?

AB: A change is taking place in the ecosystem of the power sector: Conventional energy is gradually becoming renewable energy. So, conventional cables need to be gradually replaced with renewable cables. The industry must be prepared to face this challenge. The cable companies in M. P. Birla Group comprise of Universal Cables Ltd., which specializes in making power cables; Vindhya Telelinks Ltd., which specializes in optic fiber cables, special cables for communication, LV cables, DC Solar cables and EPC business; and Birla Cable Ltd., which specializes in optic fiber cables. Universal Cables Ltd. has a factory in Goa as well which manufactures light duty cables. We also have a joint venture company with Furukawa Electric Co. Ltd., Japan, which manufactures high performance optic fibers. We are trying to establish a synergy amongst these companies. For example, we have an EPC division at Vindhya Telelinks Ltd. We can always exchange the strengths of each of these companies to bring in a synergy. We are prepared for it, and I can tell you that many of the Universal Cables orders cater to the EPC

divisionof VindhyaTelelinksLtd.and,likewise,viceversa. So, we are building up our strengths continuously to face the market challenges and opportunities in India. We have to turn India into a developed nation. Our Prime Minister's vision of a USD 5 trillion economy is going to bring a total change in the business landscape for engineering and infrastructural products. The only problem is that there is a liquidity crunch in the market, which has been because of due diligence in the banking system where banks and financial institutions have become more careful and riskaversive. We, therefore, do not see the flow of money in the downstream infrastructural projects to the extent at which the reforms have been made. So, there is some sort of mismatch between the aspirations of the Government to build up a seamless infrastructure and the flow of liquidity on the market. This will take some time to settle down. We may have to go through this situation for another year. We havetoviewbusinessfromalong-termperspective,andsoI think, we have to tackle the current challenges and wait for betterdays.

WCI:Couldyoutellusaboutyoursolarcablesegment?

AB: To cater to this segment, we have put up two of the most modern lines from Rosendahl, Austria. It is a totally automated plant with state-of-the-art features. This is backed-up by an Electron Beam Accelerator for Electron Beam Cross-linking. It is known as the physical crosslinking process – the cross-linking of the polymer to give it higher temperature resistance and better physical strength and provides higher current rating. We have already manufactured samples, which will be sent for approval. So, solarcableisabigmarketforus.Thesetuphasbeendoneat VindhyaTelelinksLtd.,Rewa,M.P.

WCI:Isthereanythingelseyouwouldliketoadd?

AB: Universal Cables Ltd. has always believed in quality, and quality pays in the long run. There have been ups and downs in terms of competition, and we had to retreat from many of the market segments. Now we are getting back these markets because of our emphasis on product quality. We are gradually penetrating the global market. Our first interest is to cater to the home turf where the market is large. We are simultaneously growing in the export market, though the growth has been rather low: It would be around 5 percent of our total turnover. However, in future, we expect a wider and deeper footprint in the neighboring countriesandbeyond.

Svarn Group: Striving to Go Beyond the INR 1,000 Crore Mark

Operating in business domains such as communication, transportation and commerce, Svarn Group has created a name for itself in the telecom sector. Svarn's diversification into wires and cables, prefab structures, refrigeration and the retail and IT sectors has pushed it growth phenomenally. In 2015, Svarn made its international foray by expanding to the MENA region and establishing its overseas office in Dubai.

In an interview given to Wire & Cable India, Ajay Kumar Gupta, Founder and MD, Svarn Group, talks about his company and product portfolio.

Excerpts.

Wire&CableIndia:Couldyoutell usalittlebitaboutSvarnandits productportfolio?

Ajay Kumar Gupta: Svarn Group is basically a large diversified group having an interest in communications, transportation and commerce. We do cables and cabling solutions for telecom, railways and the industrial sector. We also do a lot of sheet metal businessforTelecomandtherailways.

WCI:Whatnewdevelopmentshave takenplaceinyourgroup?

AKG: Since most of our revenue comes from cables and cabling solutions, I would like to talk more about it. Here we are providing all power, signalling and grounding cable solutionsfortelecomandtherailways. We also do a lot of radio frequency cables, data cables and fiber optic cable assemblies for 3G and 4G. Now we are venturing into the nextgeneration cable technology. We are likely to start the commercial production of electron beam crosslink cables from October 1, 2020. Here I would like to mention that crosslinking is not a new phenomenon. We've been doingcrosslinkingincablesforthelast 50 or 100 years, with the help of hot temperature or steam on polymers. We at Svarn will now do it through high-energy electrons, because of which the cable will become very stable. It will be able to withstand a very high temperature and will have high abrasion resistance. Also, it will be abrasive-resistant for outdoor conditions. This cable will be very

INTERVIEWS

stable. So, this type of cable finds a lot of application in solar, defence, navy, nuclear, automotive harnesses and railwaycoachharnesses.

WCI:Whathaveyoutosayfor electricalfires?

AKG: We've been doing a lot of firesafe cables, which use special polymers, like low smoke zero halogen, and flame retardant low smoke compounds. But the cables with new technology E beam, we are coming up with, will be ten times more 'stringent' towards safety than regular cables. So, our drive is towards making more firesafeproducts.

WCI:Whatareyourcorporate targetsfortheyear2020?

AKG: The year 2020 will be a year of transformation for us. We started as a telecom company about 15 years ago and then slowly diversified into transportation; and now we are moving into the electrical cable segment. This will be our third segment where we will be investing in a big way. We are already doing LT cables. But we would like to get into the HT cable segment because of the power needs of India. So, we have recently bought a large land bank in Ghilot, Rajasthan. Hopefully, we will comeupwithourunitovertheresoon.

WCI:Couldyoutellusaboutthe opportunitiesthatthewireand

cableindustrycurrentlyhasandthe challengesitfaces?

AKG: The wire and cable industry has always been a thriving industry. I have been part of this industry for the last 20 years and have always seen this industry grow. But it has its own challenges because of competition from the unorganized sector. Fortunately, we have state-of-the-art infrastructure which enables us to makequalityproducts–andthathelps us in overcoming competition and, as a result, in sustaining ourselves. Quality matters to us a lot because we dealwithtier-onecustomersandwork closelywiththem.

WCI:Couldyoutellusaboutyour manufacturingfacilityandmachineries?

AKG: Our total floor area is 300,000 sq. ft. We use German equipment for

our drawing facilities. All our drawing machines and bunchers are from Niehoff, and all our extrusion and other equipment are from reputed manufacturers from India and overseas. We use state-of-the-art machineries, with all PLC controls, A/C motors with less power use – and that is how we have been able to fight off competition.

WCI:Whatareyourviewsonthe currentmarkettrend?

AKG: The market jitters are temporary. They will vanish soon with the 'growth vision' of our Prime Minister and Home Minister. I feel this is a temporary phase. In another one or two quarters down the line, we should see healthy growth in all infrastructure and other segments. Since we operate in telecom, we expect to see growth in this sector after one or two quarters, because all the consolidation has already happened. Prices have started rising in the telecom sector. Anothergrowthareaistherailways.

WCI:Isthereanythingelseyou wouldliketoadd?

AKG: We are a young organization. We started about 15 years ago and have seen rapid growth ever since the company was established. We hope to continue growing. Our target is to cross the INR 1,000 crore mark in the next couple of years. So, we are workinghardtoachievethistarget.

Chandresh Cables Limited Sets up its

Second Manufacturing Plant in Gujarat

Established in 1986, Chandresh Cables Limited, a leading manufacturer and supplier of electrical cables and wires, operates under the brand name AVOCAB. With a proven track record of more than two decades, Chandresh Cables is an ISO 9001 company with a strong presence in the wire and cable industry. Its manufacturing setup is situated in the industrial belt of Kalol, Gujarat.

In an interview given to Wire & Cable India, Abhivandan Lodha, Director, Chandresh Cables Limited, talks about the new developments that have taken place in his company, the company's new manufacturing unit and the existing market scenario.

Excerpts.

Wire&CableIndia:Couldyoutell usaboutthenewdevelopmentsthat havetakenplaceatAVOCAB?

AbhivandanLodha: AVOCAB is now almost 35 years old. The company places a premium on product innovation and product-portfolio expansion. We set up our second manufacturing plant in Gujarat last year. It specializes in manufacturing quality house wires, solar cables and instrumentation cables. We are now diversifying into cables up to 33 kv, and the company is focusing mainly on developing its distribution channel for its set of house wires. We have a pan India presence, and we are now looking for partners. We are also trying to have stock points in the north, south, east and west. Secondly, solar cables and fire survival cables are the other areas where we are have been focusing. We have been one of thepioneersinthisarea.So,wehave got our products tested and certified here in India as well as outside India. Also, we are looking for overseas marketsforwires.

WCI:Couldyoutellusaboutthemanufacturingcapabilityofthenewunit?

AL: Our new manufacturing unit is a state-of-the-art unit. Our machines have come from Germany, including best-in-class manufacturers. We have broughtinthemanpowerfromsomeof the best companies in the cable and electrical industry. This unit has the capacity of manufacturing almost 2 lakh kilometers of flexible wires per month. Cables like fire survival, fire retardant, fire retardant low smoke, zero halogen, instrumentation shielded,

braided cables, etc., will now be added toourproductportfolio.Thisdevelopment will enable us to cover a greater partof ourclientelesegment.

WCI:Whatisyourproductand marketstrategy?

AL: So, now we will heavily invest in building up our brand. AVOCAB is a brandthatisknownacrossthesectorin the business-to-business (B2B) segment, but now we are going to focus on the business-to-consumer (B2C) segment. We have come up with a new slogan Safe rakhega, mast chalega (Will keep you safe and will work well). This slogan mainly applies to our wires. We recently had talks to create a brand ambassador,andwearegoingtodothe 360 degrees of branding exercise in terms of ads, films, print medium, etc. And finally, with the development of the dealer channel across India, the visibility will be greater. You will see more of AVOCAB across the spectrum.

WCI:Whatisyourtargetforthe newplantforhousewire?

AL: The new plant has been given a new vision: We need to touch sales of around500croresinthenextfinancial year. And we are already half way down the line in terms of the product. So, this target is definitely achievable, because with the growing segment in India, there are many avenues and geographical areas where we were not present. So, now we have started to reach those areas. And people are starting to like our products and use themonaregularbasis.

WCI:Whatareyourviewsonthe existingmarketscenario?

AL: Well, the markets have come out of the doldrums. The year gone by was a tough one for us. It was difficult for most of the companies to maintain their targets. Last year's turnover was a challenge. But we have touched the specified numbers

and gone beyond them. With the addition of the new manufacturing utilities, we should be able to touch new numbers. It's going to be a challenging time for companies in the coming three to four months, because the market has a lot of work or jobs but liquidity is a serious issue. We see it as a churning exercise. Only the fit and better players will survive.

WCI:Isthereanythingelseyou wouldliketoadd?

AL: In times to come, there is going to be a lot of churning and only a limited number of players will survive on the Indian market – and that's because we now look at the market as an international scenario, not as a domestic market. So, the industry will have to focus on quality and the professional approach to manufacturing. We have been focusing on quality and already have a professional approach to manufacturing.

Systematic Group: Giving a Sharper Focus on Innovation, Human Resources and Sustainability

''Our goal is to be a debt-free company in the next two years – a goal we are confident of achieving,'' says Sidharth Agrawal, Managing Director, Systematic Group, in an interview given to Wire & Cable India.

Wire&CableIndia:Couldyoutell usalittlebitaboutyourcompany andbusinessjourney?

Sidharth Agrawal: Systematic started its operations in the year 2001 with a modest capacity of 300 MT per month. Today, we have scaled up to 12,000 MTPA in multiple products, industries and geographies. Systematic Group has managed to scale not just vertically with our extensiveproductsolutionsinthesteel wires space but also horizontally, with increasingreachacrosscontinents.

We started our business journey in the steel wire manufacturing space with the purchase of a few secondhand drawing blocks. The company gradually grew into five manufacturing plants, mainly because of the positive relationship we had established with our customers. Systematic is not about the number game. We never looked at the MT we were producing every month. We were mainly interested in serving our customers in the best way possible. Winning the trust of our customers wasof paramountimportancetous.

WCI:Couldyoutellusaboutyour productportfolio?Areyougoingfor capacityexpansion/productlaunch inthenearfuture?

SA: We are into producing galvanized wires, wires for power industry, high carbon and low carbon steel wires,

INTERVIEWS

welded wire mesh, stay wire and other wire products. Our steel wires are engineered for highly specialized applications in the power and transmission industry, infrastructure, auto ancillary industry, agriculture and allied engineering industries. Our products are used not just in India but across South East Asia, Africa, Europe and the Middle East. With a very active R&D team working closely with the sales team, Systematic launches two to three products regularly. Our latest product launches are Galvanized Steel Tape andPVCCoatedWire.

WCI: Couldyoutellusaboutthe qualityassuranceandR&DpracticesundertakenatSystematic?

SA: Our goal is to make wires suitable for everyday application. We are one of the few companies in India to have an in-house R&D cell which focuses on improving the technical properties of steel wires and coatings. Our R&D team is committed to developing processes that would provide customers with quality products and cost savings.

We strongly believe that innovation is the key to Systematic's long-term sustainability. It is only through

constant innovation that we have been able to sustain and remain relevant in thisbusinessforgenerations.Westrive to persistently raise the bar in quality standards by deploying cutting-edge manufacturing processes for both galvanized and non-galvanized wire products.

One such recent result of our extensive R&D efforts has been the development of a unique galvanizing technologywhichresultsin25percent greater resistance to corrosion than conventional galvanizing processes. We are surely one of the leaders in India in manufacturing environmentally friendly (lead and acid free) galvanizingprocesses.

WCI:WhathasenabledSystematic tobeattheforefrontoftheindustry?

SA: We at Systematic believe that in today's changing times, a wire company needs to focus on three areas: Innovation, Human Resources andEnvironmentalSustainability.We work relentlessly to improve our processes and product quality. We have remained relevant in vastly changing times by constantly discontinuing older products and introducingnewerproductlines.

Talking about human resource practices, our industry fails to attract young talent because young aspirants do not see growth and a conducive work environment in our industry, which they do in other industries. Very few companies in the wire and cable industry get the opportunity to nurture fresh talent. I strongly believe that the sustainability of a company is directly proportional to how well it implements its HR policies and systems. Skill matrix, not experience, should be the yardstick for growth. Also, continuous training of the entire workforce is required to fully enable it to cope with changing business requirements. We at Systematic

continuously invest in robust HR policies and extensive training programs. We have a dedicated cell that focuses only on growth plans for individuals.

Environment sustainability is extremely important in our times. In the wire and cable industry, a lot of effluent is generated (in the traditional process),andunfortunately,peopledo not take it seriously while setting up their plants. I personally know so many factories that have been impacted by the pollution control board or nearby villages due to negligence in this area. It requires investment and a strong will to stay true to this cause. I am afraid, if we as an industry don't deal with environment-related issues seriously, then not many companies will survive the next decade.Iknowalotof customerswho refrain from entering this business because of this reason. The cost of treating pollution is not factored in; as a result, most people undersell their product, landing themselves in graver problems. We at Systematic take this issue very seriously. We have invested in ETPs and undertake rain water harvest, solar energy and tree plantation. Today, 10 percent of our electricity demand is met through solar, which we expect to grow more and more. We want to make Systematic a carbon-positive company.

WCI:Isthereanythingelseyou wouldliketoadd?

SA: Our mission is to provide our customers with the best service experience, our employees with excellent growth opportunities and our stakeholders with sustainable returns. Our strength lies in the sheer brilliance of our technology, which allows for the steel wires to undergo extreme customization to match the exact specifications of our customers and provides surface-treatment solutionsforsteelproducts.

Marti Nyman Joins NDC Technologies as President and Strategic Growth Leader

Marti Nyman recently joined NDC Technologies as President and strategic growth leader. Nyman succeeds Dave Roland, who served as NDC's President since 2016. Nyman was most recently Vice President and Chief Growth Officer for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, responsible for the growth and successful delivery of high-impact innovative products and services for the Minnesota healthcare market.

In an interview given to Wire & Cable India, Marti Nyman talks about his role at NDC, efficient leadership, expansion of NDC's market presence in Asia and market trends in the near future.

Here are a few excerpts from the

interview.

Wire&CableIndia:Youhave extensiveexperienceincreasing enterprisevalueforFortune500 companies,aswellasotherpublicly andprivatelyheldcompaniesina rangeofindustries.Doyouthink thatthecorporateexperienceyou havegainedovertheyearswillhelp youindeliveringthegoodsfor NDC?

Marti Nyman: Most definitely. What I've learned in working across five different industries (energy, telecom/technology, consumer retail, healthcare and professional services) is that all companies desire

to grow and, while the individual circumstances of each of the markets may vary, they all share a number of common attributes that determine whether the company will profitably grow and succeed. Included in these attributes are things such as a clear and compelling value proposition for the customers they serve; however, the value proposition must be objectively defined by what's important to the customer. Growthminded firms also focus on creating a sustainable competitive advantage, with the emphasis on sustainable –something that enables us to serve as a market leader and an organizational culture that is relentlessly focused on serving the customer and

seeking to get better and better at this every year. These are just a few things that I've experienced in the various leadership roles I've held and they're what I'm excited about in leveraging here at NDC.

WCI:Whatfeaturesmakeagood leader?Wouldyoudescribeyourself asagoodcorporateleader?

MN: Agoodleaderfaithfullyexecutes the vision and strategy, effectively meeting the stated goals and objectives. A great leader is someone who, by their presence and performance in the role, creates a legacy – a legacy for the people who work at the company, which becomes both a point of pride and provides a sense of meaning and purposetotheirwork.Alegacy forthe market, where the impact of their products, quality and service sets a new standard by which all other offerings are measured. And a legacy for the industry, not just delivering a product or service, but fundamentally reshaping what's possible in that industry. That's what great leaders do. Great leaders also make one of their highest priorities the growth and development of the people in the organization. Unfortunately, many individuals in leadership roles miss this vital responsibility. Without people growth there is no company growth. No company growth means no future. It's important to keep in mind that doing all of what I just said takes time, commitment and a persistentpursuitof becomingabetter leader – it won't just happen overnight.

As to the second question, I consider myself to have been blessed to have worked for some well-respected companies and with amazing teams –and this has given me a solid foundation from which I lead. But I respect the responsibility of leadership too much to ever assume that I'm “done”

– it's a continual work in progress and I'll never stop learning or finding new ways to grow my leadership skills and abilities.

WCI:Couldyoutellusalittlebit aboutyourstrategyfordelivering valuetoyourcustomersand makingNDCavibrantplaceto work?

MN: I'll share the high-level strategy of what we're doing to deliver value to our customers. It consists of establishing a shared, companywide responsibility and the need for us all to be more customer-centric and growth-minded. The job of delivering an exceptional offering to our customers is not just the job of sales, or customer service or production. It's everyone's role. We each have an opportunity to influence what our customers experience when they interact with NDC. Everything from the way we provide our quotations, to our communications, to on-site installation and commissioning, to our post-sales support to invoicing –all of these can impact the customer experience and we're focusing the entirety of our company on this. When we get that right, growth will follow.Thesecondareaof focusinour strategy will be to revitalize our product line. But instead of centering our efforts on what we think the market needs, we're going to engage our customers – both existing and prospective – in providing the feedback and insights that'll drive our product and service development efforts. Our customers are living in an extremelydynamicandpressure-filled world, and we need to deliver solutions that help them address those challenges more effectively, consistently and sustainably. There are several initiatives that are being developed as we speak, that'll guide us onthispath.

WCI:Salesandmarketingplaysa dynamicroleinthegrowthofa company.Couldyoutellusabout yourplanorstrategyfordrivingthe marketingandsalesgrowth activitiesofNDCTechnologies?

MN: On the marketing side, we're spending a considerable amount of effort on several areas: market communications (including application notes, case studies and editorial), more applicable use of social media and the leveraging of multiple mediums for communicating our value and benefits (e.g., video, webinars, podcasts, etc.). Although we live in a B2B, industrial market, customers still desire to know the value we provide and how we can help solve their problems. Our marketing efforts will be increasing the focus on activities that will help to accomplish this. We're also going to be revisiting most of our market- facing materials to make sure that they effectively expressthefullvalueof whatwedo.In my time here, I've come to see that there are many core assets that we have that are not receiving the full measure and attention that they deserve. On the sales side, I'm excited about bringing John Perry on board to lead our global sales and marketing efforts. John has an incredible wealth of experience in leading highperforming sales organizations and he's going to bring a new level of energy and focus to our global sales efforts. His background in sales tools and value-selling will fit wonderfully with our increased efforts to communicate the full value that NDC brings – which starts with the measurement and control solution, but extends well beyond. Look for more exciting things from John in the coming months.

WCI:Whatisthemoststressfulpart aboutsellingacrossglobalmarkets?

INTERVIEWS

AreyouplanningtoexpandNDC's marketpresenceinAsia,especially IndiaandChina?

MN: I would say that the most stressful part of selling across global markets is that while each of them may share some common attributes (with other regions), they have their own unique practices and preferences. The challenge comes in making sure that, despite these differences, we're able to solve their problems in a way that is of great value to our customer, and perhaps to their end customer, so they receive the full benefit of our solution.Thisisnotauniqueaspectof serving global markets, but a challenge, nevertheless. On the other side, however, is the opportunity to learn from these global markets and bring those learnings across borders. For example, how a customer may have solved a unique problem in Hyderabad may be of great interest to acustomerinHouston.

As for expansion plans, we've historically had a strong presence in the China market as well as in India; andgiventheeconomicactivitytaking place in those regions, we will continue to pursue growth opportunities there. The good news is that we'll be able to do this from a position of strength, by leveraging our in-country teamsandresources.

WCI:Doyouworryaboutany unintendedconsequencesfrom whatyouaretryingtoachieve?

MN: That's an interesting question. I'm not sure they qualify as unintended consequences, but I do know that when the culture and direction of a company shifts towards intentionally serving the customer and driving more growth opportunities, the

culture of the company must also change. The old ways of operating are in conflict with this new focus and cannot be sustained – they must be replaced with the new direction. As a result, the executive leadership team and I are intentionally focusing on the cultural aspects of this transformation, including the way we develop talent, how we communicate internally, how we hold each other accountable for the results and how we meet our commitments and deadlines. But as I mentioned, this is a veryintentionalpartof oureffortsand notunintended.

WCI:Dointernationallyrenowned industrialgoodsevents,tradefairs, andexhibitionsyieldworthwhile results?

MN: The right events do. While it's always good to participate in industry events to exhibit your latest solutions and share the value you bring to the marketplace, some shows are more valuable and impactful than others. And like all companies, we don't have an unlimited budget (in terms of people and money) to attend every event. But we will continue to participate in the events and venues that enable us to meet the maximum number of quality customer contacts.

WCI:Couldyoushareyourviewson thewireandcableindustry?What markettrendsdoyouforeseeinthe nearfuture?

MN: At a very high level, the wire and cable industry is continuing to address the confluence of five dynamics: product cost pressures (keeping COGS low), quality expectations of end markets,

pressure on decreasing operating expense budgets, ever stringent capital expenditures and the ability to find resources in tight labor markets. While these aren't necessarily new trends, they are what we're continuing to see, in greater magnitude, from our customers. And it's these trends that will drive us to deliver better solutions that help our customers more effectively address these drivers. Beyond those trends, we believe that, increasingly, the value that customers are looking for will be found in the information or insights that are generated from our gauging solutions. Note that there's an important subtlety here – there's plenty of data being generated in industrial process control systems. But it's just data, which by itself has limited value and impact. It's when data becomes information or provides insight, that it really adds value. Like many industries, the winning firms are those who can find new and powerful ways to translate the data they generate into meaningful, valuable operating information. As a crude simplification, Google set out to be a powerful and effective search engine, but its enterprise value really took off when they realized that the data (search queries) was able to be translated into value – for both the individual searching for something and the merchants (or content creators) who delivered something of high relevance.

WCI:Isthereanythingelseyou wouldliketoadd?

MN: I thought these were thoughtful and relevant questions and I'm grateful for the opportunity to spend some time with you in answering them.Thankyou!

Manufacturers & Exporters of all types

SANT ENGINEERING INDUSTRIES founded in the year 1966 by Mr Krishan LaI Malhotra is the leading Manufacturer and Exporter of all types of Plasc and CableMachineryworldwideandiscommiedtofosteringExcellenceinthisfield.

We have the pleasure to introduce ourselves as one of the leading manufacturers and exporters of all type Plascs & Cable machine of wide rangingsizes/specificaonsinIndiahavingexperienceofoursixdecades.Our company strategy is to give lot of emphases on Customer sasfacon, quality control & also in co-operaon innovaon / technological, advancement in plant & machinery. We dedicated in energy saving / cost economic, Customer Services&environmentfriendlytechniques.

Our experse in following areas :

• High speed Insulation line and Sheathing line for House Wiring, Multicores Flat / Round & Control Cables.

• High output and best in class Sheathing lines for Power cables.

• Efficient Triple Extrusion line for SIOPLAS (XLPE) cables.

• State of the art Extruders - upto 175 MM.

• Robust Payoffs & Take ups of all types and sizes as per requirement upto 4 Meters

• Cross Head Single / Dual / Triple.

• Haul Off Catterpillars upto 5000 Kgs traction force.

• Capstan • Cooling tanks • Cable grade Compound making machines.

580, Main Faiz Road, Street N0.17, Karol Bagh, New Delhi -110005 (INDIA) Phone: +91 11 23679498, 23521090 | Mobile: +91 9868107361, +91 9717263888 Email: charanjeevmalhotra@gmail.com | Web: www.santengineeringindustries.co.in / www.santengineeringindustries.com

Elecrama 2020: Ahead of the Game Again

ELECRAMA 2020 not only showcased a broad spectrum of cutting-edge technologies and high-tech solutions but also provided a platform for inspiring forums, conferences and events – all related to the world of power.

Hosted by IEEMA, the 14th edition of ELECRAMAensuredthebestinfrastructureand facilities for the exhibitors and visitors. The icing on the cake was the presence of major concurrent events like World Utility Summit, ETechnxt, RBSM and DBSM, etc., where exhibitors from more than 60 countries and visitors from more than 120 countries joined the 5-day event,whichwasheldfromJanuary18to22,2020,atIndia ExpoCentreandMart,GreaterNoida.

The event was graced by the presence of Prakash Javadekar, Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises, RK Singh, Union Minster of State (IC) Power, New & Renewable Energy and Satish Mahana, Minister of Industrial Development, GovernmentofUP.

R. K. Chugh

Addressing the audience, R. K. Chugh, President, IEEMA, said, ''IEEMA cuts across verticals in electricals and electronics and comprises of 55 percent of capital goods and USD 42 billion of top-line products in the country. We support the Government's vision of the USD 5 trillion economy and aim that our top line should reach the target of USD 1 billion by 2024-25. Towards the same, we are focusing on upgrading skills with the view of complete reskilling of workforce and incorporating technological

advancements, such as AI and IoT, into various segments. These are the hallmarks of ELECRAMA2020.''

Highlighting the growth of ELECRAMA over the years, Anil Saboo, Chairman, ELECRAMA 2020, said, ''Energy is prosperity. The journey from 1990 to 2020 is exponential, as the exhibition has expanded from 9,000 to over 1.10 lakh sq m. Also, this year, exhibitors grew from 100 to over 1,370. ELECRAMA has been a matchless platform for the Indian electrical industry. Over 1,000 Indian and 300 International exhibitors showcased a host of technological innovations covering the complete electricity ecosystem from generation, transmission, distribution, power electronics, renewables, e-mobility, automation,andpowerstorage.''

The five-day congregation saw national and international industry experts and policy makers deliberate upon challenges, innovations and business models through a seriesof leadershipsummitsandmeetings.

In his keynote address, Prakash Javadekar, Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises, said, ''The annual growth of energy should be 10 percent for many years to come, even if the country's economy grows at the rate of 6 percent annually.” Referring to demand for more relief by the industry, he said that “the

industry's cause must translate into societal cause for the benefit of society as well as the industry.''

The minister also referred to the electrification of 18,000 un-electrified villages and congratulated R. K. Singh, Union Minster of State (IC) Power, New & Renewable Energy, for fulfilling this commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi within a time frame of 1,000 days. He further stated that 3.5 crore households had been given power connections under the SAUBHAGYA scheme.

Prakash Javadekar also mentioned that the electrical vehicle (EV) is the future of India and that work on it has begun. EVs will reduce environmental pollution and lead to efficiency in the use of energy. According to the data, there are around 5 lakh EVs including two-wheelers and four-wheelersinIndia.

Speaking at the event, R. K. Singh, Union Minster of State (IC) Power, New & RenewableEnergy, said, ''The electricity sector has been transformed in the last few years and the whole country

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has been connected with one grid and one frequency. The investment in transmission and distribution system is continuingandwillpickuppace.”

Welcoming ELECRAMA 2020 to the state, Satish Mahana, Minister of Industrial Development, Government of UP, said, ''In the last couple of years, we gave 1.2 crore new connections to the state. The UP government has a target to add 2000 MW of solar energy every year. The state government is looking forward to strengtheningitsbondwiththeindustry.''

Along with the spectacular exhibition of the growth of electrical and electronic technology, Elecrama 2020 rolled out multiple key initiatives, including eTechNxt, World Utility Summit, EVs, RBSM and BBSM and much appreciated Women Empowerinitiatives.

eTechNxt,auniqueinitiativeunderElecrama2020,powered deliberations on pertinent challenges of next-generation technologies, including e-mobility, energy storage, start-up forum, and upskilling for new technologies. The four-day initiative covered a range of subjects, e-mobility trends and policies and emerging technologies and storage. The emobility track in the eTechNxt at ELECRAMA 2020 aimed at highlighting the opportunities and technology trends and understanding the challenges and solutions needed for meetingtheevolvinge-mobilitydomain.

The 3rd Edition of World Utility Summit was held on 20th and 21st January, 2020, concurrent to EELECRAMA 2020. Thesummitfocusedonpowerutilityandsawmorethan400 participantsfromacrosstheglobe.Italsoreleasedknowledge papers on six trending topics. These knowledge papers were meanttoserveasaguidingtoolforpowerutilities.

buildElec focused on the evolving roles of AI and IoT, Smart Tech, energy efficiency, security, power quality, covering rooftop solar, security and surveillance, and lighting.

Three dedicated pavilions – Renewable Energy, National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) and Rail Urja –displayed various technologies and developments for meeting major national objectives. The Railway Conference debated India's roadmap towards 100 percent electrificationof theIndianrailways.

ELECRAMA 2020 also focused on women empowerment in the electrical sector. In order to increase women's participation in the energy and power sectors, the event provided a platform to discuss and share experiences of women experts and learn from the experiences of others.

Amidst multiple initiatives aimed at strengthening discourse and engagement around key verticals, the event included an interesting Reverse Buyer-Sellers Meet under the ChangeXChange 2020 program. The meet concurrently saw participation from 650 buyers from 70 countries including Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, CIScountriesandSAARCnations.

The Domestic Buyer-Seller Meet further strengthened Indian businesses, especially the MSMEs, opening the world market for them to achieve more business in public andprivateutilities.

In the last couple of years, more than one million EVs hit the road in India. Over 350,000 units were sold in FY18 while 750,000 units were sold in FY19. Clearly, the government andstartupsaregoingallouttouptheelectricmobilitygame toensureaclean,green,andresponsibleIndia.Theincreased interest in EVs was also evident in the lineup for ELECRAMA 2020. ELECRAMA 2020 was host to a pavilion that saw not just electric scooter but also other EVs suchasbus,autoandcarparkedoutsidethepavilion.

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Elecrama witnessed an estimated 300,000 footfalls. Around 1,370 exhibitors showcased their products and services at the exhibition. The exhibitors showcased a myriad of technological innovations covering the entire electricity ecosystem from generation, transmission and distribution to power electronics, renewables, e-mobility,

automation and power storage. The event focused mainly on the energy spectrum along with renewable energy, energy storage, automation, digitalization, Industry 4.0, IoT, AI and electric transportation opportunities to expose the electrical industry to new technology innovations and disruptionswithinformationtomanagethetransformation.

wire Düsseldorf 2020: Preparing for Another Showdown

The world's biggest and most important forum of the industry's experts – wire 2020 – will again be presenting itself in Düsseldorf as the hub of the trade from 30th March to 3rd April 2020.

World's leading and the

most influential trade show - wire Düsseldorf 2020 - will open its doors to an expectant audience witnessing and experiencing best of the wire and cable industry, learn new technologies, meet leading industry experts know about the latest trends in an industry which plays a pivotal role worldwide.

Starting from March 30, 2020 to April 3, 2020, wire Düsseldorf will provide theidealopportunityforsuppliersand buyers from all sectors of the industry to meet, exchange views and learn of the latest technology in an everchanging industry. More than 1,400 exhibitors and 42,000 trade visitors from 80 countries will descend on Germany's seventh largest city for the biennialstagingof wire.

For the first time ever, the event will have a large-scale ecoMetals campaign running for the entire duration of wire 2020. Exhibitors who are particularly committed to the areas of energy saving production, material and resource efficiency, climate compatible use of renewable energies, or optimized energy controlling, can joininthecampaign.Theirstandswill be highlighted specifically using a labelandcorrespondingsticker.

wire 2020 will cover a comprehensive spectrum of themes ranging from machinery and equipment for wire manufacturing, wire processing and finishing, spring and fastener technol-

ogies and their finished products, auxiliary materials and process technology tools through to glass fiber. Furthermore, the latest developments in test engineering and special-

ist areas will be on display. Exhibitors will provide information on trends in measuring and control technology. Additionally, materials, special wires andcableswillbeinfocus.

CERSA-MCI to Showcase Measurement and Control Instruments

French-based CERSA-MCI is a world-leading manufacturer of measuring devices for fine wires, cables and optical fiber industries.

SSQM-F

ince 1981 CERSA-MCI provides advanced technologies to help customers enhancing their production quality. Our product range covers on-line and offline applications for noncontact measurement. Speed measurements and high accuracyareDNAof ourdevices.

CERSAwillbepresentatWireDusseldorf 2020toshowits measuring devices and specifically the latest device for

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surface analysis. Focused on high speed line measurement, SQM-F (new patent technology) catches surface defects and displays their shape on screen. Visitors will have the opportunity to attend the device presentation operating on several sample wires. Today available for round product from 20µm to 2000µm. A complementary solution to its currentoffertoimprovequalityinspection.

Among other devices exhibited at the show, our wellknown LDS device (Ø from 5µm to 2000µm). Developed for more than 20 years ago for laboratory applications and continuously improved, it is still the best solution on the market for tiny wire measurements. Fitted with WSR accessory (measures over 360°) and associated with CIM software,itbecomesacompletesolution.

Other highlighted devices for quality control will be present: our LPS-3-H to monitor diameter and detect

lumps and neck downs in a single product for larger wire and cable diameters (Ø from 0.3mm to 5mm). With an acquisition speed of 20kHz, it far exceeds the devices availableonthemarket.

Other CERSA-MCI products include our complete range of devices dedicated to optical fiber measurement. A complete solution to ensure high quality certification during drawing process. Now available with multi industry standard communications. More than 500 high speed lines aredrawingwithCERSA-MCIinstrumentsworldwide.

With numerous local representatives worldwide and a subsidiary in China, CERSA-MCI provides our customers with exclusive solutions, superior reliability devices and qualityservices.

Turkey - Based Gurfil is Geared Up to Showcase at wire 2020

With 38 years of experience in creating costeffective materials, covered by a solid quality guarantee and outstanding customer service, Gurfil keeps a leading position on the global cable market among the suppliers.

The Gurfil company is proud to serve its customers

throughout the world with the Foil-Film-Tape products together with machinery, including on-site supportandafter-salestechnicalservice.TheTurkey-based company has expanded its product range into three main groups with more than 100 products. The Foil-Film-Tape segment includes ALU/PET, ALU/Copoly, CU/PET laminates, Polyester film (Mylar, PET film), Mica tape, PP Identification tape, Polyester non-woven tape, Copper foil, Fiberglass tape, PP foam tape, Kraft paper, Crepe paper, Semi-conductive tape, Water blocking tape, Fiberglass yarn,Ripcordyarn,WaterblockingsoftYarnetc.

In the wire segment, it offers Aluminum Alloy Wire (0.12 mm, 0.16 mm), CCA and CCS, Skin-Foam-Skin 3 Layer Physical Foamed Conductors. The machinery segment includes High Speed Vertical Braiding Machines (16 and 24 carrier), High Speed Horizontal Braiding Machine (24, 32, 36 and 48 carrier), High Speed Mica Taping Machine (1,2,3 carrier, Pad and Spool head options), Winder lines and Pay-Off and Take-Up. The company also offers the following machines with commissioning, after sales service and all the spare parts from its warehouse with professional service personnel 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.

The team from Gurfil will be interacting with the visitors at wire2020andtalkaboutnewdevelopments.

Hall 9, Stand C39

SIKORA to Exhibit Innovative Measuring and Control Systems

At wire 2020 in Düsseldorf, from March 30 to April 3, 2020, SIKORA will present a broad portfolio of futureoriented measuring and control systems for an efficient and sustainable quality control for the wire and cable, optical fiber and plastics industries.

Numerous intelligent technologies, for example, for online measurement of wall thickness, eccentricity and the diameter of cables, confirm SIKORA's claim to develop and provide innovative and sustainable measuring solutions for the global cable market. “Quality and sustainability are core elements of our business strategy and decisive for the business success of our customers,” explains Harry Prunk, member of the executive board of SIKORA AG. “For almost five decades, our measuring systems have contributed to quality control and a simultaneous reduction of plastic material during cable production. This saves costs and automatically preserves resources,”Prunkfurthersaid.

The X-ray measuring system X-RAY 6000 PRO ensures a precise measuring and control of the cable dimensions for more cost efficiency and sustainability.

At wire, visitors can find out more about the performance of the measuring devices during extensive product demonstrations. One highlight is the X-ray measuring system X-RAY 6000 PRO that is used for the measurement of wall thickness, eccentricity, the diameter and ovality of cables with up to three different material layers, for example in insulating and jacketing lines. As a pioneer in Xray measuring technology for cable extrusion, SIKORA hasbeensettingtrendsfor30years.Thecombinationof the X-RAY 6000 PRO with the processor system ECOCONTROL 6000 allows for an automatic control of the wall thickness. By reducing the wall thickness by, for instance, 5%, not only raw material consumption is reduced, but there are also plastic material savings in the six-figurerangeachieved.

The PURITY CONCEPT V is used for optical sample inspection of plastic pellets. For example, black specks can be detected.

The quality of a cable starts with the pureness of the plastic pellets. Thus, SIKORA also offers online and offline inspection, sorting and analysis systems for plastic pellets. Visitors can bring their plastic pellets, which will be inspected and analyzed by the laboratory testing device PURITY CONCEPT V live on site. By using inspection and sorting systems, contamination can be excluded, breakdowns eliminated and material costs saved. Besides economic advantages, the environment can be preserved at thesametimeduetolesswaste.

With the premiere of the FIBER TENSION 6003, SIKORA widens its product family for quality control of optical fibers. The gauge head offers an extremely fast, reliable and precise tension measurement and control. Due to the high measuring rate of up to 10 kHz and the application of the birefringence principle, the stand-alone gauge head is particularly attractive for manufacturers of high-end solutions. The FIBER TENSION 6003 is predestined for optical fibers that are further processed

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into premium optical fiber cables. The FIBER TENSION 6003 can be used for hot as well as cold measurement of the bare fiber.

Turning ideas into innovations and product developments that achieve the highest quality, sustainability and cost effectivenessinthewireandcableaswellasplasticindustry is SIKORA's claim. The company emphasizes this at wire with the “Solution Corner”. Customers are invited to personally discuss with SIKORA experts their ideas, visions and technical requirements on the systems for quality control for the future of measuring technology in a creative atmosphere. SIKORA's presence at the wire 2020 promisespurequality,innovationandsustainability.

Hall 9, Stand A41

PWM to Presents New Version of ST40 Strip Welder

PWM's products are precision engineered in-house and tested to ensure total accuracy. PWM manufactures industry standard dies and can produce custom-made dies for specific applications.

PWM's ST40 strip welder with welding head in vertical position

PWM, leading manufacturer of cold pressure welding machines and dies, will present a new version of its ST40 strip welder at wire 2020. The company will also exhibit a comprehensive range of manual and powered cold welders, including its largest machine model, the P1500,forrodupto30mm.

The re-designed ST40now has a welding head that can be positioned either vertically or horizontally on the trolley, to suit a wide variety of applications and production set-ups.

The air/hydraulic-powered machine, specifically designed for strip, can weld material up to a maximum width of 45mm and a minimum thickness of 0.2mm, depending on material properties. Low maintenance, fast and straightforward to operate, the ST40 can be moved easily to the work area,savingeffortandreducingdowntime.

The P1500 offers wire and cable manufacturers a costeffective way to weld large rod sections. Extremely energyefficient, clean, quiet and user-friendly, the P1500 uses a combination of electro/hydraulic power to produce reliablepermanentweldsstrongerthantheparentmaterial, helping manufacturers reduce operating costs and minimizewaste.

The full PWM range includes small, lightweight hand-held manual machines for fine wire up to 1.20mm; manual and powered models that can be used on a workbench or supplied with a trolley for wire 0.30mm to 6.50mm; and large,freestandingrodweldersformaterialupto30mm.

Hall 9, Stand B41

Step Into Maillefer's Smart Circle

Maillefer's multinational team will be joined by colleagues from Davis-Standard, as well as agents and representatives from around the world.

Maillefer will showcase a wide range of innovative products at wire 2020.

Maillefer will be exhibiting at the most important industry event happening in Düsseldorf, Germany, from March 30 to April 3, 2020 - wire 2020. We are keeping with the biennial tradition of inviting our customers and visitors to our stand. The visitors will be greeted with innovation, exciting technology, smart solutions and, most importantly, a competent and welcoming face. Discover how just another two years' worth of progress and developmentsarechangingourindustry.

A showcase of products will surround the Smart Circle, which is at the heart of the Maillefer stand. Leading technologies are integrated into our lines and components. Get to experience Smart Buffering, Roundness Optimization, Defect Detection, Preventive Maintenance, SimFactory,NCCCuringCalculationandmorewithinthe Smart Circle. Artificial intelligence with its neural networks and predictive models captured from real industry environments, are thrusting production performance and productqualityforwardwhileensuringthatyoustaywellin controlof thedemandingextrusionprocess.

Two complete lines will be visible on our stand – a fiber optic secondary coating line and an imposing high-voltage

CCV line. Curiously, they both fit on just a few square meters! Thanks to virtual reality and some powerful renderingweareabletotakevisitorsonanexploratorytour that reveals the winning designs and inner workings of the twolines.

Maillefer Smart Monitoring will be at work during the show, taking a variety of data from the stand, then crunching, compiling, correlating, and consolidating it into an informative display of the Smart Factory. Its remarkable flexibility makes it a decisive tool for successful factory operation that adapts easily and evolves rapidly to individualneeds.

Exemplary production sites around the globe are pushing the limits of wire & cable manufacturing. We are proudly listing more than a dozen of them as industry references. Learn about each of their successes and how Maillefer gets involvedwithpracticalsolutions,know-howandservices.

For those who need to get their hands around real steel components, we will have lots of them on the stand. The exhibits includes topography scanning of energy cable surfaces, new dual take-up for telecom wire, a choice of crossheads and extruders for low-voltage and fiber optic cables,atapefoldingsystem,andmore.

Much has happened over the past couple years. Sustainability has taken a strong hold on our product designs and caused us to look closer at how we operate as a leading provider in the industry. Here too, we are excited to highlight the advantages our solutions provide in answering customer concerns regarding sustainability. Longer lengths, less scrap, optimum material consumption and tight tolerances, longer run times, equipment durability and extended lifecycles through services and upgrades are immediate answers that Maillefer provides to today's customers.

Hall 10, Stand C22

Head Office:

2B, Pretoria Street, Kolkata - 700 071, Tel: +91-33-22823744 / 45 / 8818, Fax: +91-33-22823739, Email: kolkata@kkalpana.co.in

Sales & Marketing Office: 106, Laxmi Plaza, Laxmi Industrial Estate, New Link Road, Andheri (W), Mumbai - 400 053 Tel: +91-22-67021470 / 71 / 72, Fax: +91-22-67021473, E-Mail: mumbai@kkalpana.co.in

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Enamel-Insulated Rectangular Wire for Electric Mobility

FUHR Rolling Mills will exhibit its products at wire Dusseldorf 2020.

Insulated copper wires are used in windings for electric

motors, generators and transformers. The automotive industry's entry into electric mobility has created new challengesformanufacturersof enameledwire.

In small/medium transformers, usually round wires are used. However, in large transformers (e.g. in power stations), enamel-insulated rectangular wires have been preferred since decades, because they significantly improve powerdensityandefficiency.

The enamel-insulation rectangular wire is very thin with a layerthicknessof 50to150µm.Thelacquer isappliedin10 to 20 layers, i.e. the individual layer might be just 5µm. Whilst the bare wire passes a lacquer bath and a calibration nozzle, spare lacquer is stripped off. Repeated passaging of ahot-airovenburnsinthelayer.

Duetothesmalllayerthickness,thefirstcalibrationnozzleis only a few micrometers larger than the bare wire. If the wire does not have the correct dimensions, enamel coating might be either too thin or too thick and insulation faults occur, whichthenleadtofailureof thewindingduringoperation.

The production of high-precision enamelable rectangular copper wires is much more difficult than the production of roundwire.If drawingdiesareused,asignificantlyworse–becauseasymmetrical–lubricatingfilmof thecoolingfluid is formed compared to drawing round wires. At speeds above 60 m/min, the lubricant film begins to crack in the area of the edge radii. A failure of the drawing die is the consequence. When drawing round wires, much higher speeds of up to 3000 m/min are achieved due to the more

beneficiallubricationconditions.

In addition to this speed restriction, another reason not to use profile drawing dies is the low degree of standardization in transformer construction. Nearly every project requires different wire dimensions, so that short-term procurement or stockpiling is a considerable logistical problem.

Furthermore, the speed of enameling lines for rectangular wires is significantly lower with maximum 25 m/min than that of round wire lines. Here, asymmetry is the main reason making uniform enameling difficult at higher speeds,too.

In order to achieve higher production speeds and a high degree of flexibility, rectangular copper wires for transformer construction are usually not produced in line with enameling lines, but are rolled, coiled and insulated in high-performance rolling mills in multi-core enameling lines. For this application, FUHR has been developing and selling rolling mills for many years, which meet the requirements of the transformer industry for precision, flexibility and productivity. These machines have been continuously optimized. Typical production speeds today rangefrom200to800m/min,dependingontheproducible cross section. One rolling line supplies approx. 8 to 15 paintinglines.

For a rolling mill, there are five rolling steps: two high mills and two round-rolling mills are responsible for the preprofiling. The final calibration is carried out in FUHR's WST-type,universalprofilerollingmill.

5-stand high performance rolling mill for offline production

Optimized production for electric mobility

The automotive industry relies on enamel-insulated rectangular wires and requires manufacturers to prove that nowiredamageoccursbeforeenameling.Evenwhenusing the best winding and unwinding systems, it cannot be guaranteed that the bare wire will be free of damage during offline production. This results in the task of inline production. However, a rolling line is not getting cheaper just because it is slower. Following that, the concept of a 5standrollingmillcannotberetainedforinlineprofiling.

Other than in transformer construction, standardization in the automotive industry is exceedingly high. Typical plants manufacture the same product for months or years. Therefore, the use of profile drawing dies in this area is possible in a sensible way, even if technical developments should increase the possible lacquer speeds to up to 60 m/mininthefuture.

With the IPU320, FUHR has developed an economical inline profiling system with which the manufacturers of enameled wire can meet the high requirements of the automotive industry for quality and price. The IPU320 combines rolling and profile drawing processes, whereby large width to thickness ratios can also be achieved by drivenrollers.

Besides a low price, one of the most important requirements during development was uninterrupted operation formonths.

TheIPU320isequippedwithaclosedcontrolsystem,which does not require an electrical interface to the paint spray line. The required space is kept at a minimal size with 2 meters.

Therefore, retrofitting in existing paint spray lines usually is possiblewithouthavingtoadapttheexistingsystem.

FUHR will exhibit an IPU320 and present the production of rectangularcopperwires"live"atWire2020.

l MachineDimensions(WxHxD):2.00mx2.00mx1.40m

l Weight:2.500.00Kgapproximately

l ProductionSpeed:2.00m/minto60.00m/min

l InletWireDiameter:0.50mmto5.00mm

l Cross Sectional Area of Finished Wire: 0.50 mm² to 10.00mm²

l WidthtoThicknessRatioFinishedWire:1:1to8:1

Hall 11, Stand A50

Supermac Industries to Showcase Its High-End Extrusion Systems and Process Technology

SWORLD CLASS EXTRUSION SYSTEMS

upermac Industries was established in the year 1974. With over 4 decades of experience in theindustry,thecompany hasemergedasagloballeaderinthemanufacturingof high end extrusion systems and process technology for the wire and 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 the specific needs of a variety of customers across the globe. With a highly skilled design team, the best of

manufacturing and a highly talented commissioning team and trained experts in cable processes and technology, Supermac makes solution-based offerings. Its current portfolio includes design, manufacturing, commissioning, process expertise and robust online and offline customer service to bring in the best extrusion machines for you.

The company has one unit in Delhi and two units in Manesar, Haryana. The company, under its expansion program, is adding one more unit near Delhi and the same shall be commissioned by April 2020. 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 all its products approved for CE Mark, enabling it to export to the market inEurope.

''Supermac has supply reference in several countries and has an ever-increasing presence on global markets. Recently, it has supplied world-class fully automated and with the best of the process driven software high speed insulation lines to Malaysia and the Philippines. The lines exceed customer satisfaction. Supermac's portfolio has expandedasfarastotheNorthandSouthAmericaRegion, and the company has bagged orders from the US market as well,''saysVivekKohli,Director,SupermacIndustries.

Supermac has European strategic technology and market partners from German companies – M/S Scholz to cover CCV Lines and M/S Rubicon to cover Rubber extrusion Lines on Indian, African and Far East markets. With the

two European partners, Supermac's is focusing on expandingitsCCVline.

Supermac offers high speed insulation line and sheathing line for the house wiring and control cables and medical equipment sector, triple extrusion line for SIOPLAS (XLPE) cables and high output and best-in-class insulation line and sheathing line for power cables. Supermac also offers a variety of extruders, crossheads for single, dual and triple layer, haul-off caterpillar, capstan and take-up and pay-off of all types and sizes and as per requirement above 4.5metersand40MTaswell.

At wire 2020, it will showcase high production, high speed 120mm extruder for energy cables and LV cables. Customers can have extensive discussions on extrusion lines with the technical and marketing teams at Supermac's boothduringtheevent.

Hall 11, Stand G05

Meet Spheroidize Annealing Expert RAD-CON in Düsseldorf

RAD-CON will be showcasing CHQ - furnace for producing cold-heading quality wire and Anneal - furnace for annealing of drawn wires in batch.

Many of the largest fastener manufacturers are using RAD-CON equipment. Furnace for annealing of drawn wires in batch.

RAD-CON is a world leader in the design and manu-

facture of Bell-Type Furnaces for spheroidize annealing of wire and wire rod for the production of coldheadingqualitywires(CHQ)..

RAD-CON specializes in one type of furnace bell-type, one type of process annealing, and has very specific

knowledge in spheroidizing of alloy steel hot-rolled wire rod and drawn wires, resulting in a clean surface that is free of decarburization. RAD-CON is headquartered in USA and operating globally, with more than half of the turnover outsidetheUSAoverthelasttenyears.

RAD-CON offers the most advanced system available worldwide for annealing wire and wire rod, mediumcarbon and alloy steels, to cold-heading quality (CHQ) specifications. The H2SHC™ system provides the highest convection of any system to produce uniform mechanical properties necessary for the manufacture of high quality fasteners. RAD-CON's proportional-pulse control system design produces a stable thermal cycle that is a key to achieving 90%-100% spheroidization—which leads greater die life and better flow during the cold forming process. RAD-CON uses a 100% hydrogen protective atmosphere along with patented AC/APEx™ control system to ensure surface quality free of decarburization— another important element in the production of CHQ wires.

Hall 9, Stand D06-03

Padanaplast to Showcase Advanced HFFR Compounds for Electric Power Train Cabling

The Italy-based company has been offering HFFR compounds for cable sheathing, wire insulation, pipe and fitting applications since 1982.

Padanaplast specializes in crosslinkable polyolefin

(XLPO-HFFR) compounds for wires and cables and will showcase a range of products developed to meet the stringent needs of electric mobility in the automotive industry at wire 2020. These include a new experimental ®grade-Cogegum GFR1709-27-specificallydevelopedfor

ultra-flexible T4 battery cables for next generation electric vehiclepowertrains.

® Padanaplast will also display Cogegum GFR 1401-76 and GFR 1401-190products which comply with the most relevant automotive cable standards, including ISO 6722 Class C and SAE J 1128, and intended for T3 primary insulation optimized for technical performance and costeffectiveproduction.

® Also highlighted are Polidiemme Ggrades which are EN 50620 standard fully compliant and extensively used as insulating materials for electric vehicle charging cables ensuring high flexibility and reliability. All grades are crosslinked using silane-grafting technology coupled with a non-halogenated flame-retardant system. Automotive wires and cables manufactured from these materials display non-corrosive properties which facilitates end-ofliferecycling.

12, Stand C11

Rosendahl Nextrom to Showcase at wire 2020

Commitment, transparency and technological (r)evolutions will be the core topics of Rosendahl-Nextrom's presentation at the wire 2020 - all combined within our fundamental promise “here for you”!

The market has once again reached a new level of technology. Digitalization is in full swing in the cable business and sustainability is an ever-present buzzword. As an Austrian and Finnish supplier, whose environmental, technological, safety standards etc. must comply with extremely strict regulations, these developments have become a natural foundation for us to build on. We will demonstrate this during wire 2020, for instance by means of our Smart Line Control System RIO, coupled with our SmartCallservicesupport.

RoSET(RosendahlSuperiorExtrusionTechnology)isalso a wonderful example of exactly these developments. RoSET is a brand-new solution for MV cable production that uses polypropylene-based compounds, something that has not been commercially available so far and precisely emphasizes the aforementioned developments. Well, now itisofficiallyhereforyou.

Digitalization is where Nextrom comes into play. Optical fiber production is a segment where the limits are continually pushed towards faster, better, stronger solutions. Our

Vantaa-based OVD and VAD preform R&D Center is constantly testing and improving our technology to keep and even boost those limits further. We will reveal which optical fiber performance is possible with Nextrom's Rosendahl Nextrom will exhibit at wire 2020.

preform technology. Nevertheless, this is a high-tech business field and the benefits can experienced best by attendingalivedemonstrationinVantaa.

Hall 9, Stand A60

Kkalpana Industries to Showcase its Cable Compounding Range

The India-based compound manufacturer will put on display some of its PVC compounds for 1.1 kV to 66 kV cables.

compounds.

Kkalpana Industries (India) Limited will be exhibiting at the wire 2020 in Düsseldorf, from March 30 to April 3, 2020. It is one of the largest polymer compounders inIndia.

Thecompanymakescompoundsrangingfrom1.1kVto66 kV. Its product range includes PVC compounds, HFFR compounds, Sioplas compounds, XLPE compounds, TR XLPE compounds, PE insulation and jacketing compoundsandSemiconcompounds.

The company has recently launched products such as track resistant compounds, Tree Retardant XLPE, CCV XLPE insulation up to 66 KV and Cross linkable HFFR. In the coming three to five years, the company will go for CCV

insulation 132 kV. Technical expertise, state-of-the-art machinery and quality control equipment are the company'smainstrengths.

Hall 10, Stand E70

Ajex & Turner Showcasing VNT NANO PCD Dies

The India-based company will be present at wire Dusseldorf showcasing its wide range of product line.

Ajex & Turner Wire Technologies will be displaying wide range of VNT NANO PCD dies at wire Dusseldorf 2020. The VNT NANO PCD are used for manufacturing AAC, ACSR, AAAC, ACAR, AACSR, ECO series conductors and welding wire industries. Also, for continues manufacturing of conductor VNT NANO PCD Dies are the best solution for compacting ratio and lowpowerconsumption.

Some of the major benefits of VNT NANO PCD Dies include 2-3% metal saving, power saving, excellent wire surface finish, 0% tolerance throughout its working life, low friction, maintenance free, no dust generation, harder diesurface,longersizedienib,smoothentryandexitangles andhighproductionratio.

Hall 11, Stand C02

Experience Zumbach's In-line Measurement and Control Equipment

To make the visit at the Zumbach booth even more exciting, the company will showcase many more systems with new features and functions.

®RAYEX S XT

Zumbach will use the wire 2020 platform to showcase the most modern and advanced non-contact measuring technologies for dimensional measurements of all type of wireandcables.

Excitingmeasuringsolutionsforcableextrusionlines,wire drawing and rolling applications will be displayed to present state-of-the-art measurement solutions and digitalizationcapabilities.

® The new RAYEX S XT will be in the spotlight and present an easy and simple system to simultaneously measure wall

thickness, eccentricity and diameter of cable jackets. Attractive data collection, process control and visualization capabilities combined with interface options for IoT ®applicationsmaketheRAYEX SXTindispensable.

In addition, Zumbach will showcase the new wire preheater WST 2006FV that is designed to consistently

preheat the wire conductor in extrusion lines for best product and process performance. The wire preheater WST 2006FV has a very compact design, fitting into nearly every extrusion line and a customer-friendly product settingroutinetosimplifyenteringnewproducts.

Hall 11, Stand D41

Tramev to Showcase Equipment for the Wire and Cable Industry

The Italy-based manufacturer will showcase a wide range of product lines for wire and cable industry.

Company's shears for wire and cable are without a doubt the most successful product made in Tramev. However, over the years Tramev has developed with customers and suppliers other equipment to resolve common problems that are created along the chain of production of wire andcable.

Some solutions (such as the gripper for coils and reels handling) allow an enormous saving in terms of time, others as the strapping rubber tube involvedinthefinalstageof themanufacturingprocessandhelptoprevent damagetothefinishedproduct.

Hall 11, Stand J14

Roteq Machinery to Exhibit V16 Strip Armoring Machine

The company will also showcase next generation V16 Strip Armoring Machine featuring improvements in operator experience and reduced maintenance.

Roteq Machinery will be present at wire 2020, International Wire & Cable Trade Fair, March 30 to April 3, 2020.

Roteq Machines

Roteq will exhibit its capabilities and developments in stranding technology for copper and aluminum conductors with single-twist, double-twist, concentric, roll forming and SIW conductors. Double twist shielding for instrumentation cable. Drum twisters, planetary, single and double twist, and S/Z for cabling. Group twinner for LAN cable. Strip armoring 50mm/125mm including inline cabling and packaging. Auxiliary equipment including pay-offs, take-ups, taping, binders, yarn servers, capstans, and caterpullers in custom engineered solutions for unique productchallenges.

Hall 9, Stand B21

Windak Group at wire 2020

Windak offers standard and customized automatic spooling, coiling and rewinding lines with a variety of different options.

Attendees can see a demo of QP260-D_11 by visiting

WindakGroupwillbeexhibitingatWire2020,taking place in Düsseldorf, Germany, from the 30th of Marchtillthe3rdof April2020.

Wire 2020 trade show plays important role for the Windak company and offers benefitial opportunity to interact with other industry professionals, take valuable insights, create newsalesleadsandof courseincreasebrandawareness.

This year company is highlighting the Packaging theme including the Automatic Coiling machine QuickPac QP260-D_ 11, which provides many benefits to Windak's customers. Its new exclusive stretch wrap solution allows manufacturers to skip the strapper or binder, while keeping those as an option. The breakthrough design improves reliabilitywhilereducingmaintenancecosts.

Hall 10, Stand F37

Shot Blasting Machine on Showcase at wire Düsseldorf

During this international event, the company will exhibit a wire and bar mechanical descaling machine at its booth.

Cogeim Europe, a historical leader in the production of shot blasting machines, will be participating in wire Düsseldorf,takingplacefromMarch30toApril3,2020.

The event represents a great opportunity for Cogeim Europetoraiseitsbrandawarenessandgetintouchwithall the major players in the field, establishing partnerships and strengtheningexistingbusinessrelationships.

Hall 11, Stand D57

TROESTER to Showcase State-Of-The-Art Extrusion Equipment

TROESTER will be exhibiting along with X-Compound at wire 2020.

TROESTER will present its state-of-the-art extrusion

equipment for the production of low, medium, high and extra high voltage cables; this comprises CCV and VCV Lines for Underground and Submarine Cables, Insulation and Sheathing Lines as well as single machines andcomponentsforefficientcableproduction.

The TROESTER Group is a worldwide manufacturer of complete extrusion systems and compounding solutions for the cable industry. The excellent results produced by its technology makes TROESTER a competent and reliable partnerinthecableindustry.

X-Compound, will present their kneader technology for the continuous compounding of HFFR (LSOH), PVC, XLPE, Semiconductive Materials and EPR/EPDM. XCompound is specialized in the planning and construction of complete systems for the compounding of plastics with the process steps conveying, melting, dispersing, mixing anddegassing.

The team of specialists from TROESTER and XCompound looks forward to meeting the visitors at their stand.

Hall 10, Stand F60

Schnell is Ready to Amaze Visitors at Wire 2020

The company's representatives will be interacting with the visitors at its booth from March, 30th to April 3rd. 2020

Being a world leader in the field of automatic machines

for reinforcement processing, Schnell is now an established company also in the sector of electro-welded meshandwireprocessing.

At wire 2020, Schnell will showcase new ideas and production solutions, modern digital technologies and increasingly advanced automated processes to optimize costsandperformance.

On display would be RETA SENSO - Fast automatic wire straightening machine, RI 8 - Automatic rotor type wire straightening machine for industrial wire, COLDRIVE MO - Cold rolling line, FORMULA 14 3D - the fastest Schnellstirrupbenderandmuchmore.

Hall 15, Stand A26

Experience Highly Engineered Stranding Machines at AEI Machine's Stand

AEI Stranders are fully customized and deliver flawless production with tens of years of trouble-free operation.

Innovative designs, high-level manufacturing engineering and superior inputs define each AEI Strander.

Associated Engineers & Industrials Pvt. Ltd. is a global

leader in providing highly engineered rigid stranding

machines for the production of energy conductor. Since 1971, AEI Machines has delivered innovative solutions and has been manufacturing various types of rotating cable machines for stranding, screening, armouring and layingup of power cables and overhead conductors. The company is headquartered in Ajmer, India with sales and servicecapabilityaroundtheglobe.

At Wire 2020, AEI Team shall be looking forward to welcoming visitors from all over the world and showcase new developments on AEI Stranders for high production flexibility, optimized speeds, reduced down time and minimummaintenanceefforts.

Hall 11, Stand D14

Join Nevatia Steel and Alloys at wire 2020

The Indian-based wire drawing expert is the oldest stainless steel wire manufacturer in the country.

ThecompanyispromotedbyMr.S.R.Nevatia,havingover 55 years of experience in the steel and cements Industries, undertook an expansion drive in 1995 increasing wire production capacity to 3000 MTPA. Today with two plants, the combined stainless steel wire manufacturing capacityis12,000MTPA.

Nevatia Steel and Alloys is leading wire drawing expert from India.

evatia Steel and Alloys will participate in the key Ntradeshowforthewireindustry,wireDüsseldorf.

Nevatia Steel & Alloys Pvt. Ltd., incorporated in 1988, is located in Mumbai, India. The manufacturing unit located at Tarapur, an industrial township is equipped with comprehensiveandmodernmanufacturingtechnologies.

Nevatia Steel wires are manufactured in compliance with International standards of quality and are in accordance with customer's stringent specifications. Wires are made in variety of grades in the size range of 0.08 – 12.00 mm, having demanding applications in various fields making springs, screws, rivets, nails, sieves, wire mesh, fasteners, wall ties, kitchenware, EPQ for baskets and trolleys, filler wire,electrodes,etc.

Withover25yearsexperienceinthefieldandover4quality certifications under their belt, the wire drawing specialists will interact with the visitors from March 30 to April 3, at MesseDüsseldorf ExhibitionCentre.

Hall 11, Stand D59

CONDAT to Showcase Lubricants and Surface Treatment Products

CONDAT provides solutions that allow increasing productivity and securing working conditions all whilst respecting personnel and the environment.

When looking for the most efficient lubricating

solution, CONDAT's ambition is not only to guarantee a high level of performance, it is also to provide support towards responsible performance that takes into accountsocialandenvironmentalissues.

With a modern, well-staffed laboratory and technical expertise in all fields of industrial lubrication, Condat works closely with its customers to offer developments suited to their needs, and is committed to improve the security of its product formulas whilst keeping the right balance between safety and performance. Borax-free and titanium dioxide free dry drawing soaps, as well as boraxfree surface treatments, have been developed by researchers to meet your productivity challenges for all type of wire drawing applications. Discover, amongst this offer, the high performance borax-free sodium soap VICAFIL SANTALE 6 and non-reactive surface treatment VICAFIL TS 7113, both in use at top wire drawing manufacturers.

Hall 10, Stand A56

AUGUST STRECKER to Show Welding Machines

Newly displayed is control - V30 Smart, a successor to V20, will also be displayed at the exhibition along with new machines.

STRECKERafamilybusinessoperatingworldwideand

the primary point of contact for customer-specific completesolutionsinweldingtechnique

STRECKER will be exhibiting on 120 m² exhibition space with 20 units for different applications - electric butt welding machines for steel, copper, aluminum or brass, for solid wires or strands and conductor cables. Moreover, the company will showcase battery-operated welders for steel andcoldweldersfornon-ferrouswires.

Visitors can attend weld demonstrations on the booth and due to the previous event's good response; there is training onweldingsmallstrandcross-sections(typeSE1).

Hall 10, Stand A21

EDER Engineering to Show Latest Technological Developments Drawing Die-Tool

The company will exhibit a variety of latest technological developments in drawing die-tool working machines.

Offering innovative and high value added concepts

with over 70 years of expertise in the field of reconditioning die working equipments, EDER-Austria is sustaining and developing its position across the globe and ispresentingitsvariousmachinesatwire2020.

At WIRE 2020 in Düsseldorf, EDER will be exhibiting following exhibits/developments - Die tool processing machines for the repair and/or production of ultra hard tungsten carbide-diamond-PCD precision die-tools. (standard-semi-automatic and automatic conceptions), Die workshop ancillary equipment (cleaning/measuring devices, microscopes etc.), Technical assistance programs (installation, training, die-reconditioning etc.) and Die tool working materials (Diamond powders, pastes, suspensions,grinding,sizing-andmeasuringpinsetc.)

Hall 10, Stand C42-01

Experience IDEAL-Werk's New Mesh Welding Systems

With increased speed in the rhythm of welding and the flexibility in use, this welding system offers an optimum weld result with short retooling times.

New GAM 816 mesh welding system.

t Wire 2020, IDEAL-Werk is showing its new GAM

816 mesh welding system which perfectly connects allcomponents.

“Proven concept” and “innovation” are the key words at the exhibition for IDEAL-Werk . New application techniques for servicing and operating instructions via AugmentedRealityarealsopresentedforthefirsttime.

Since 1923 the name IDEAL has stood for innovation and progress in the manufacture of welding machines and automation. A family-managed traditional company that works with the highest level of engineering skill and precision, IDEAL is known for resistance welding machines that combine speed, innovation, meticulousness and long life. These machines are used above all in processes involving the manufacture of wire, belt and sheet metal products. In addition, the name IDEAL stands for customized solutions to meet customer-specific requirements and it is a market-leading company for mesh and fence welding machines, coil joining of wires and braided wiresaswellasforstripweldingmachines.

Hall 15, Stand D04

Radyne Innovation on Display

The Radyne spring wire IT line produces a defect-free, hardened and tempered spring wire with guaranteed consistency of strength and reduction of area and hardness.

Inductotherm Heating & Welding will once again be

exhibiting at wire. Visitors will be able to view a full Radyne Spring Wire Induction Tempered Line Solution viaanew3Danimationbeinglaunchedattheshow.

Radyne wire lines are revolutionizing the spring wire industry with their highly efficient, automated, environ-

mentally friendly solutions, which are fully bespoke and produceahigherqualityproductfortheenduser.

The Radyne Spring Wire solution produces high strength spring wire, with an increased fatigue rate which extends the life expectancy of the product when compared to more traditional methods. Our solution hardens and tempers high carbon spring steels achieving a tensile strength of 2000MPa and with a throughput capacity of up to 1.5,2 or 3tonsanhour.

Such is the confidence of Inductotherm Heating & Welding in the Radyne solution that it comes with a unique guarantee the covers dimensional distortions, surface finish,defects,ultimatetensilestrengthandROA.

Hall 9 Stand E54

Cimteq's 3D Printer to be Showcased at Wire Dusseldorf

The 3D capability of Cimteq's software is the perfect example of customer-led development that was pursued because of its absolute focus on improving bottom line.

Cimteq will be exhibiting at wire Dusseldorf 2020, and

withaveryinnovativeadditiontoitsexhibitionstand.

Joining Cimteq on the exhibition stand will once again be Innovites who partner with Cimteq in the delivery of CableSuite solutions including CableBuilder, CableMES andCableERP.

The 3D printer on Cimteq's stand will demonstrate in very real terms CableBuilder's design and 3D capabilities. As well as a tutorial of how to build a 3D cable from CableBuilder3D, those visiting the stand will have the opportunitytoenterCimteq'scompetitiontowintheirown 3Dprinter.

Hall 11, Stand D15

METALUBE to Launch New Metacare™ Range

Over the years, Metalube had continued to invest back into the business with the introduction of mixing vessels and the introduction of more energy efficient production technology in its Irlam plant.

METALUBE is part of the Bishopdale Group, a private holding company for a group of industrial lubricants brands – Metalube, Molyslip and UOP.

Leading lubricant specialist METALUBE will intro-

duce Metacare™ at Wire 2020, a brand-new fluid management range of products and services aimed at helping customers achieve optimum performance and maximizeefficiency.

The Metacare™ range combines an advanced range of

products, additives and technical support to develop a customized care and maintenance programme that suits thespecificneedsof acustomer'soperations.

Matthew Buffin, Commercial Manager said, ''At METALUBE,ourcustomerssuccessisourtoppriority.We view the purchase of our lubricants as the start of a partnership, and this new range allows METALUBE to take that next step in helping customers achieve their performance objectives. Through extensive knowledge of our customer's machinery, their operating conditions and goals, the Metacare™ range is proven to improve productivityandmaximizelubricationlife.''

The company exports 95% of its production to over 90 countries worldwide and has offices in Manchester, Dubai, Mumbai, São Paulo and Shanghai. From its headquarters in Irlam, Manchester the company has a fully integrated lubricant manufacturing facility, including new state-ofthe-artlaboratories.

Hall 11, Stand G21

Nickunj EDM Wires & Consumables to Exhibit at wire 2020

‘'Using our in-house talent and the guidance of Technical experts, we have been able to develop special wires, which perform at par, if not better than the imported wires. This will open up a new segment of customers who were hitherto using imported wires only.''

Nickunj is one of the largest manufacturers of brass

and coated EDM wires in India with a capacity of 700 MT annually. It also supply Die-Sinking EDM Fluids, Micro-Drilling EDM Fluids, Wire cut EDM Fluids, Spares and Consumables for the EDM Machine, Tungsten and Tungsten Copper Electrodes, Molly Wires, a whole range of Metallic Electrodes, which include precision Copper Tubular Electrodes, Precision Brass Tubular Electrodes, Brass Korless (Multi-hole) Tubular Electrodes, Electro Copper Tungsten Tubular Electrodes; Fixturing Systems for Sinking EDM, Polishing Stones; Polishing Accessories, MountedPointsetc.

EVENT

With head office at Mumbai and Branch Offices at 11 Locations spread all over India, the company has two manufacturing units that which manufacture plain Brass and Zinc-Coated EDM Wires. The mother unit at Baddi, Himachal Pradesh went into commercial production in 2007.

The second unit, based in Umbergaon in Gujarat commenced production in March 2011. Both units are equipped with advanced machinery and produce premium quality of wires suitable for use on Japanese and European wirecutmachines,whosepopulationisfastgrowing.

''Our wires are tailor-made to specific OEMs such as GF+, Mitsubishi, Makino, Sodick and Fanuc. Our wire, Misshpro

is a specially treated wire that looks and performs like a plain brass wire but gives up to 20% increased productivity on all Japanese machines. Our Zinc-coated wires, Falcon & Falcon+giveupto35%increaseinproductivitycomparedto plainbrasswiresonallGF+machines.''

Fully trained application engineers are available to provide vital guidance on the parameters of the machines to obtain optimum performance from the EDM Wires on the wire cut machines. With Pan India Infrastructure and team of professional, dedicated & committed personnel Nickunj EDMisfullygearedtomeetthechallengesof globalization & changing technological needs with new generation products.

Hall 14, Stand G12

Cable Marking Machines and Optical Fiber Processing Lines from Medek & Schörner

Those new developments are only the top of the company's portfolio. Medek & Schörner can rely on a wide and stable product range of cable marking machines and optical fiber solutions using cutting-edge technology.

Optical fiber coloring system GFP-UV-K1

Medek & Schörner is attending wire Düsseldorf 2020

and will be exhibiting and demonstrating the followinghigh-performancemachinesthere:

l Optical fiber coloring / ribbon / micro module coating devicewithLEDcuring

l Intelligent camera supervision systems with logging and alerting(Industry4.0readyinterfaces)

l High-qualitygravureprinterKS

l EmbossingmetermarkerKMS

l HotfoilsequentialmetermarkerFMS(newdesign)

l High-performanceringmarkerRS

l ECO Laser marking system (Laser class I) for cables, efficiencyoptimized

Due to its excellent close relations to the cable and wire industry, the company is always in touch with new requirements which are rapidly converted into new production concepts. This enables further development continuously. The mentioned LED device, the supervision systems, the newdesignedhotfoilsequentialmetermarkeraswellasthe ECO Laser are presented at wire Düsseldorf 2020 for the firsttime.

M&S is not only offering superior quality and highperformance machines, but its employees are also going a step further to provide reliable customer support and a standard of after-sales service that many of its competitors simply cannot afford to offer.“It is this depth of in-house expertise, together with our use of state-of-the-art machinery and our highly qualified and experienced workforce, that gives us the ability to help our customers to develop always better solutions – in effect, to make their good ideas evenbetter.”

Hall 10, Stand C52-01

Prasum Metals Emphasizes on Innovation

Prasum emphasizing on innovation and is well equipped with state of the art technology and machinery to manufacturer Stainless Steel Wires and Bars.

It is a leading stainless steel wire manufacturer and exporter.

Prasum Metals Pvt. Ltd. is a professionally managed,

fast-emerging manufacturer & exporter of stainless steel wires. The company supply as per the dimensions and specification of the industry, all of which are customized

according to the demand of a client with excellent quality. Equipped with the integrated manufacturing facilities and a credible reputation of delivering the best quality stainless steel wires and bars for wide range of applications, Prasum has emerged to be one of the leading manufacturers of stainlesssteelwiresinIndia.

Prasum'splantisspreadacrossanareaof 7Acreslandwith developedareaof 75000sqfeetinthehighlyindustrialstate of Gujarat. There is an in-house wire rod solution annealing, wire rod pickling, baking, and drawing, annealing, straightening, cutting and polishing facilities with an installedcapacityof 5000MTPA.Itmanufacturesstainless steel wires from 0.10mm to 18.00mm in stainless steel 300, 400 series, welding grades and duplex grades for various applications. Prasum specializes in stainless steel cold heading wires for fasteners, stainless steel fine wires for weaving/braidingandSSgeneralpurposewires.

Hall 14, Stand C44

SKM Steels Limited Looking Forward to Expand its Base

SKM Steels Limited has won a number of prestigious awards for export excellence.

Established in the year 1969, SKM Steels Limited has carved a niche in the Stainless Steel market. The company has production facility at Umbergaon, Gujarat, which is functional round the clock in producing noncorrosive stainless steel products. It includes a well maintained fully fledged round bars unit comprising of pickling, drawing, peeling, straightening, centreless grindinglinesandpolishing.

With selected product range of stainless steel bright round bars, square bars and hexagonal bars, our products are manufactured as per international standard for any machining and industrial applications like machining tools, fasteners, automotive applications, pump shafts, motor shafts, valve , bathroom fittings, kitchen accessories andhardwareandmanymore.

SKM Steels Limited has won a number of prestigious

awards for export excellence from EEPC (Engineering Export Promotion Council) India. As a result of continuous growth and commitment towards customers, we as an ISO 9001:2015 & AD 2000 W0 & PED 2014/68/EU certified company with its tradition, sound business principles and ethical practice our products are well accepted worldwide specifically in Spain, Italy, Poland and Germany ,with many of our customers who have been withussinceinception.

With stringent quality checks and quality control process SKM's success has been made possible by the loyalty

demonstrated both by the domestic and worldwide clients. So retaining close relationships with them and emphasizing a strong customer focus remains of critical importance tothecompanyeventodayandwillbeinfuturealso.

To set high standard for quality while maintaining highest standards in the area of customer sales, cost, employment andethicalconduct. Thecompanybelievesthiscanbestbe accomplished by recognizing and meeting our fundamental responsibility to our customers, co-members and suppliers by becoming best performing stainless steel manufacturing company for our esteemed clients and nurturelongtermrelationshipwithallourstakeholders.

Hall 14, Stand D43

Vividh Wires Limited Looking to Expand With New Products

The company's core product offerings include stainless steel wires ranging from 0.15mm to 8mm diameter as well as stainless steel MIG and TIG wires for specialized welding applications.

Wire&CableIndia:Tellusaboutyourcompanyand itsproductofferings?

Ashwani Gupta: We are a hi-tech stainless steel wire drawing unit in Greater Noida that incorporates state-of the-arttechnologyandplacesastrongemphasisonproduct quality and customer satisfaction. This unit has been operational for almost 3 years, and we have seen a strong & growing demand for our products. We are continually expanding our production capacity and developing new linestokeepupwiththecustomer'sdemands.

WCI:Throughsomelightonnewdevelopmentsor productlaunches.

AG: I think it's very important as a growing company to understand market needs and customer demands. We have

beenworkingondevelopingthesuperfinewiressegmentin our company as I see a growing demand for the product. We are currently working on the development of super fine wiresasfineas0.04mm.Asthingsstandatpresentwehope to have the new lines up and running within the next few months,greatlyenhancingourproductofferings.

WCI:Whatareyourfutureplansforthecoming3-5years?

AG: Our future plans are focused partially on maximum utilization of the existing capabilities of our production unit and partially on further capacity enhancement. The idea is to keep growing in a sustainable manner as per the market demands, while improving the quality on a constant basis. Additionally, to meet with our internal clean energy targets, setting up another captive solar PV plantisalsoonourmedium-termagenda.

WCI:Whatdoyouthinkarethestrengthsthatgivea uniqueedgetoyourcompany?

AG: The concept of high quality has been deeply instilled in our core philosophy since the very beginning. Every single team member is made fully aware of the need to deliver superior products to our customers, for which we have invested heavily in the plant, machinery and training. Our customer's implicit trust in us, along with our timely andwell-planneddeliveries,isourcorestrengthandiswhat givesusthatedgeinthiscompetitivemarket.

Hall 14, Stand G51

Wire & Plastic Machinery Corporation: Making the Machines Selection Right

The company has a comprehensive range of over 30,000 machines in stock located in over 3 million square feet of warehouse space for all aspects of non-ferrous wire and cable production.

As the largest reseller of high quality secondhand wire,

cable, and optical fiber manufacturing equipment,. Machines are offered as individual components to com-

plete lines and can be delivered immediately from 8 USA locations or completely reconditioned by an in-house engineeringteam.

During wire Dusseldorf 2020, Wire & Plastic Machinery will be showcasing pictures, video, and an interactive presentation of its inventory offering within a 72 square meter area. Beverages and snacks will be available within the expanded lounge area. An enclosed meeting room will beavailablefordetailedprivateprojectdiscussions.

Boothvisitorswillhaveaccesstoweb-enabledstationsfora live product search with detailed specifications and pictures. Worldwide experienced personnel will be available to assist in selecting the most suitable equipment foryourapplicationandprocess.

Hall 9, Stand E20

Experience WOYWOD Products Live at wire in Düsseldorf

or almost 40 years the company Woywod FKunststoffmaschinen GmbH & Co. Vertriebs-KG has been producing very high quality PLASTICOLOR dosing devices, volumetric and gravimetric mixing systems, conveyorsanddryingsystemsforfree-flowingmaterial.

From now on, Woywod Kunststoffmaschinen GmbH & Co. Vertriebs-KG can also be found under its own social

media presences. According to the slogan "Endless Opportunities", the company provides its customers and followers with the latest news and topics related to the company on the channels LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

Here interested parties can look at the profiles and contributionsof WOYWOD,likeit,commentandshare:

l linkedin.com/company/woywod-km

l facebook.com/woywodkm

l instagram.com/woywod_km

The entire brand presence of WOYWOD got a new, modern corporate design at the end of 2019. In addition to the classic print advertising material, the website is also presented in a modern and clear look that underlines the strengths of the company, the products and services. The newwebsitecanbefoundhere:woywod.de

Hall 9, Stand A42

TECH-TALK

PRY-CAM: Revolutionizing Electrical Systems Diagnostic and Monitoring

Prysmian PRY-CAM partial discharge measurement is an essential ally for the asset's management.

Praveen, maintenance head of an automobile

factory, witnesses dielectric failure leading to an electrical explosion near the GIS. Who is the culprit? Partial discharge on the cable's joints, aggravated by the recent diggings near the cable, is at fault. Now Praveen's headache is to plan offline PD measurement, whichwillleadtoamanufacturingstopandlogisticsissue.

Partial Discharge (PD) measurements have become a paramount procedure for assessing the condition of electricalsystemsandavoidingerraticenergysupplywhich cangeneratelargelossesfortheindustries.

Until now, PD testing was rarely used as a powerful online diagnostic tool due to several limitations of traditional PD technologies. They required the electrical system to be switched off and connected to test equipment while diagnostics were conducted, which was very cumbersome, expensive and complex. Some traditional handheld ultrasound or acoustical instruments were not sensitive enough to detect the critical defects. The technologies for

online condition assessment of MV/ HV assets used to be complex,expensive,anddifficulttointegratewith.

Constantly listening to the client's needs, Prysmian developed PRY-CAM standalone and PRY-CAM cloud devices – innovative technology to measure partial dischargeswithoutserviceinterruption.

PRY-CAM eases the assets management, helps the prevention maintenance strategies, and allows savings for the utilities. It reduces the maintenance costs and matches thesmartcities'requirements.

PRY-CAM by Prysmian wireless technology is an easyto-use solution, allowing PD testing to be performed remotely, without the need for a direct connection on what needs to be tested. The measurements are performed without switching the system off, suitable for any electrical equipment from 3 kV to 600 kV, AC DC or VLF, such as cables, joints, terminations, switchgear, transformers, electrical machines, measuring PD even far below the noise level.

TECH-TALK

Several factories, energy utilities, and towns worldwide trust PRY-CAM technology, measure online accurate reliable Partial Discharge with a maximum safety for the operators,thankstothegalvanicinsulation.

The PRY-CAM Energy harvester, with its open core, is installed around the cable and catches the required 5W from the power cable to energize PRY-CAM Grids and the units.Itisverysimple,fastandeconomical.

The PRY-CAM cloud is an IoT user-friendly and effective solution to store the PD measurements, collected by the PRY-CAM devices, in a safe way, allowing measurements and tests sharing for the concerned departments, analysis andproactiveactionstoperformontheinstallation.

The PD measurements can be saved with important operational features, such as pictures, recorded messages, GPS coordinates and notes. The clients can also have access to Prysmian PD experts to have a deeper analysis within 24 hours, on PD waveform, frequency spectrum. Trainingisalsoavailabletoacquirethein-depthknowhow.

The payback of using PRY-CAM by Prysmian solutions is fast, along with a rapid installation, delivery, peace of mind, and productivity improvement. Suitable for new or existing installations, it can also help to negotiate lower premiumriskinsurance.

– This article has been written by Benoit Lecuyer, CEO, Prysmian India.

40Years Experience in Manufacturing

of Rotating Cable Machinery

Offers Complete Solution for Wire and Cable Industry

Our Manufacturing Range: WetTypeWireDrawingMachine StrandingMachine

Wire/Strip/TapeArmouring Machine DrumTwister

Laying Up Machine Cable Sheathing Line

High SpeedTaping Line Drum Rewinding Machine

HITECH MACHINES

207,DLFPrimeTower,Phase-1,OkhlaIndustrialArea,NewDelhi-110020 Mob.:+919993075522,Email:sales@hitechmachines.co.in Website: www.hitechmachines.co.in

Reduce Material Costs in Automotive Wire Production

The color recognition system can be integrated into a new or existing production line. It can also be used as a stand-alone unit.

Imagine - You are producing an

ultra-thin cable with 0.13 mm² at a production speed of 1800 m/min. Now you get the task to monitor the insulation color just by looking at it. Do you think you could detect color variations in - let's say200 m of cable on the running line? An impossible task! This is where Rosendahl sees cost-saving potentials by using an extremely sensitive color recognition system, called DVS SK400-C. Rosendahl developed this innovative sensor system to detect eventheslightestdeviations.

Manufacturers & Exporters of: Hot Foil Marking Tape for Cable & Plastic Pipes

MAG Plastics, H-1267, DSIIDC, Narela Indl. Area, Delhi-110040. INDIA

E-mail: magplastics@gmail.com Mob: +91 9312965386, www.magplastics.com

The color recognition sensor system measures the main and stripe colors, as well as the stripe width, according to previously set references. It is also possible to optimize the product recipe. Due its sensitivity, especially the master-batch demand can be decisively reduced. Rosendahl has subjected it to intensive tests on their RA-A automotive wire production line. The results reveal that recipes with 2.5% master-batch can easily be decreased down to 1.5%, while still maintaining the same color shade. All these improvements lead to immediate savings regarding the master-batch, and thus on material costs.

The DVS SK-400C-C's main component is a PC-based evaluation unit with 360° camera surveillance. This unit consists of four cameras which are covered by a protective housing. This enables continuous color quality monitoring, which is also displayed on the reel protocol. Color reliability is therefore immediately assured, which makes color complaints and faulty productions a thing of the past. That means that waste and scrap are significantly reduced at start-up, during production and even during colorchanges. n

Swaraj Technocrafts: Meeting the Highest Quality Standards

In an interview given to Wire & Cable India, Rajendra Ekbote, Director, Swaraj Technocrafts Private Limited, talks about his company, product portfolio, business challenges and expansion plan.

Wire&CableIndia:Couldyoutell usaboutSwarajTechnocraftsand themajormilestonesithas achievedsofar?

RajendraEkbote: SwarajTechnocrafts started in the year 2003 as a manufacturerof machinesforthewireandcable industry.Wegraduallybecamealeader in equipment for steel wire processing. We believe that quality is a passport to themarket,andthisbelief isthebasisof our work culture. Our goal has always been to provide our customers with high-quality and efficient products. We consider customer satisfaction as our greatest reward. Also, we have successfully exported our machines to countries like Germany, Mexico, Spain, Czech Republic, Thailand,

Indonesia,etc.Ourglobalfootprinthas expandedconsiderably.

WCI:Couldyoutellusaboutyour company'sproductrange,productioncapacityandplantsetupin India?Doyouhaveanyplansfor expansion?

RE: Our product range includes products like straight line wire drawing machines, inline wire rod preparation systems, pay-offs and take-ups for process lines like galvanizing, patenting and annealing, CO2 wireproductionline,inverteddrawing machines, vertical/horizontal spoolers, dead block coilers, rewinder machines, wet wire drawing machine, etc.

INTERVIEWS

We have a fully established manufacturing unit with CNC metal working machines, fabrication, assembly and paint shop. Also, we have a tungsten carbide coating facility based on high velocity oxy fuel. It is fully equipped with a quality lab for inspection and testing. In addition, we have a fully functional on-load trial and testing facilityforourmachines.Wewillsoon be including some new and innovative productsinourproductportfolio.

WCI:Whatareyourviewsonthe industry'sadoptionofthelatest technology?Couldyoutellusabout yourownpredilectionfornew technology?

RE: Swaraj Technocrafts employs the best innovations and technologies in its manufacturing process to make sure that its products are engineered accordingtothesetstandards.Wehave installed high-precision computerized metalworkingmachinesatallstagesof manufacturing to get high accuracy andprecisioninourproducts.

Our product development team keeps track of the latest technological advancements – technology that we can incorporate in our machines. We recently developed a new and improved way of manufacturing

drums of WDM. Also, we developed different types of die adaptors for betterperformance.

WCI:Areyoucommittedtoquality? Ifyes,thendoyourproducts adequatelyreflectyourcommitmenttoquality?

RE: Wire drawing machine manufacturing involves fabrication with high engineering standards and a thorough understanding of the wire manufacturing process. We are committed to quality at all the stages of the wire drawing machine manufacturing process. While designing machines we always keep in mind that our machines have to meet the highest quality standards. And that's why we have always been successful in meeting our customer's quality expectations. We have successfully carriedoutmanyprojectsinthepast. Wegetrawmaterialswithsuppliertest certificates. Our skilled inspectors check all the other parameters before accepting the raw material. At our inhouse manufacturing, we focus on betterdesignanddevelopmentof wire drawing machines so that the machines are rigid, reliable and trouble-free. During the in-house machining process, we use different

quality assurance techniques to control the specified parameters. We also focus on different parameters to prevent any defects at the assemblies andsub-assembliesstage.Also,weput our machines through trial runs before dispatching them. Our machines are, therefore, trouble-free and require just a bit of easy serviceabilityandmaintenance.

WCI:Whatmajorchallengesdoes thewireandcableindustryfacein activitiessuchasdrawing,cutting, andmakingwires?Howdoesyour processtechnologyenableyouto facesuchchallenges?

RE: Even though the growth prospects of the wire and cable industry are quite bright, the industry faces a lot of challenges in its operations. Some of the challenges it faces are ensuring the quality of the product, maintaining the standards of quality certifications, keeping up with the varied demands of the market, bearing high conversion costs due to useof old-technologymachines.

We incorporate new and improved technologies in the most simplified way in our machines. This incorporation enhances the quality of the machine, increasing its speed, which in turn increases production. We also offer customization and automation toourcustomers.

WCI:Couldyoutellusaboutthe regionsandmarketsyousupply yourproductsto?Doesyourmarket footprintextendtoplacesoutside India?

RE: Abignumberof ourcustomersare based in Asia. We have a significant PAN India presence. Speaking about our export of machines, we have a strong global presence – something we have achieved in a very short span of time. We have exported a large number of our machines to North America, Europe, Asia, etc. We are currently focusingontheglobalmarket.Also,we

will participate in some of the upcoming international and national trade showstomakeourglobalanddomestic presencestronger.

WCI:Couldyoushareyourviewson thepresentstateofthewireand cableindustry?Doyouthinkthe industryisgettingreadytomake investmentsinfurtherexpansion andnewmachinery?

RE: The wire and cable industry is a very dynamic industry. Changes and improvements happen in this industry on a regular basis. The dynamics of the industry is expected to change in the near future. The industry is likely to expand with favorable changes in thegovernmentpolicies.

In the wire and cable industry in India, old-technology machines are still being used in a big way. However, a majority of today's customers have become

quality-sensitive. They go for quality products. So, companies using old technology will have to switch to more efficient and productive machines. Swaraj can meet this growing requirement through its economically priced machines. We therefore hope to get

substantialbusinessinthenearfuture. The Government of India should provide Indian manufacturers with greater protection to push the growth of local manufacturing further, which can provide employment for thousandsof people.

KEI Industries Raises INR 500 Crore to Start New Greenfield Project

The company will use the funds to partially pay debt and fund its growth plans for the next couple of years.

January, 28, 2020

According to the media reports, KEI Industries Limited,

is planning to start a new Greenfield construction in 2021withaninvestmentofaroundINR400-500crore.

KEI Industries is looking to set up new manufacturing facility which will bring in incremental growth for the company. The new project is expected to increase the company's cable manufacturingcapacitiesby50-60percent.

KEI Industries plans to manufacture extra-high voltage cables, high-tension/medium voltage cables and lowtensioncablesinitsnewmanufacturingfacility. n

MTNL Shareholders Approve INR 6500 Crore NCD Issue, Monetization of Land

and Buildings

During the extraordinary general meeting of Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd (MTNL), 99.89% votes were cast in favor of the issuance of guaranteed, unsecured, listed, redeemable non-convertible debentures in the nature of bonds (NCDs), in one or more series/tranches, aggregating up to INR 6500 crore on private placement basis.

January 9, 2019

State-owned MTNL has received shareholders' approval for raising up to INR 6500 crore through issuance of non-convertible debentures as well as for monetizationoflandandbuildings.

The company further said that majority votes were cast in favor of the monetization of land and buildings as specified/identified by its board in line with the Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM) guidelines and as per revival plan of the company approved bytheUnionCabinetrecently.

It added that majority votes were polled in favor of monetization of towers and fiber assets including leasing, after considering the market conditions with an aim to maximize returns as per the revival plan of the company, and nonconvertible redeemable non-cumulative preference shares on a private placement basis to the government towards paymentof4Gspectrumcost.

The government had earlier approved a INR 69000-crore

MTNL

revival package for BSNL and MTNL that included merging the two loss-making firms, monetizing their assets and giving voluntary retirement scheme (VRS) to employees so thatthecombinedentityturnsprofitableintwoyears.

The companies have already announced VRS schemes. As, per official estimates, 78,569 employees of BSNL and 14,387employeesofMTNLhaveoptedforVRS. n

NKT Reduces Environmental Footprint by Mechanical Recycling of XLPE Material

NKT recycles the material cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) used for insulation of power cables. For NKT, this is a significant step in the ambition to reduce the carbon footprint of its low-, medium- and high-voltage power cable solutions.

February 5, 2020

Cabling company NKT is recycling cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) that is used for insulation of its power cables. Power cables are the backbone of the global power grids being crucial to the transition to renewable energy and the focus on sustainability in the power cable industryisconstantlyincreasing.

As a leading power cable provider, NKT is continuously working to develop the sustainability in the life cycle of the company's portfolio. Now, NKT has successfully recycled XLPE material as one of the first power cable companies minimizing the carbon footprint of its solutions. The recycling process has been developed in a research project with the Swedish research institute RISE IVF, AXJO Plastic andmaterialspecialistBorealis.

During the past years, NKT has successfully industrialized the process of recycling XLPE in close collaboration with AXJO Plastic which is now manufacturing robust cable drums from the recycled XLPE material. The benefits of the recycling are clear. The material costs are significantly reduced compared to new raw materials and approximately 2 two tonnes of CO are saved for every tonne of recycled XLPE.

For NKT, the mechanical recycling of XLPE is an initiative within the company's focus on driving sustainability in the power cable industry. As the XLPE insulation often accounts for a substantial part of its power cables, NKT is working closely with material supplier Borealis to discover and develop sustainable solutions with XLPE material for thepowercableindustry.

Besides the focus on material recycling, NKT is running all its high-voltage factories on 100 % green electricity minimizing the overall carbon footprint of its portfolio of powercablesolutions. n

Supermac Industries Awarded With ET Now Business Leader of the Year 2020

Supermac is a market leader in leading-edge process technologies and advanced manufacturing systems for cable industries worldwide.

February 16, 2020

upermac Industries (India) Limited has

Sbeen accorded with ET Now Business LeaderoftheYear2020awardinthe''Machinery Manufacturing Sector''. The prestigious award function was held at Taj Lands End, MumbaionFebruary16,2020.

The award was received by Mr. Jasvinder Singh, Managing Director and Mr. Vivek Kohli, Director, Supermac Industries (India) Limited. n

KEC International Wins New Orders of INR 1255 Crore

The company has won orders for T&D, especially in the Middle East region, and will strengthen its presence on international markets.

January 21, 2020

KEC International Ltd., a global infrastructure EPC major, an RPG Group Company, has secured new ordersofINR1255croreacrossitsvariousbusinesses.

The company has secured orders worth INR 510 crore for transmission and distribution (T&D) projects in Africa, MiddleEastandtheAmericas.

KEC has also bagged orders worth INR 449 crore for overhead electrification (OHE) works and associated civil works in India. In the civil business, the company has secured orders of INR 161 crore for residential and industrialprojectsinIndia.

KEC International has been awarded with orders of INR 135croreforvarioustypesofcables/cablingprojects.

Mr. Vimal Kejriwal, MD & CEO, KEC International Ltd., commented, “We are pleased with the new order wins in the face of challenging global headwinds. Our geographical

and business portfolio diversification is paying off well in the current environment. The orders in T&D, especially in the Middle East region, enable us to strengthen our presence in the international markets. The OHE orders in Railways, further consolidate our leadership in the conventional Railwaysegment.” n

Sterlite Technologies Secures New Orders Worth INR 1,500 Crore

The company has won multi-year, multi-million dollar contracts from major European telecom players.

February 19, 2020

Sterlite Technologies, a global data networks innovator, has added new orders of Rs 1500 crore. These orders have ranged from continued business development in its core areas of optical connectivity solutions and network servicestoemergingareassuchassoftwarevirtualization.

The company has won multi-year multi-million dollar contracts from major European telecom players. It has also bagged projects in Middle East, Africa and South East Asia for solutions related to standard billing, digital engagement and AI based monetization. The company, however, did not revealthedetailsofthecontract.

STL has built the unique capability to design and deliver converged data networks across large-scale nationwide, citywide and rural environments. In the past few years, STL has widened its capability into passive connectivity, AI analytics, network virtualization and open-source programmability with a focus on converged access solutions. The company has been driving a deliberate strategy to enhance its end-to-end solutions capability by investments in

STL will be executing fiber-to-the-home densification in Europe.

European presence, acquiring Italy's leading cable producer Metallurgica; adding data centre design capability through IDS acquisition; and building virtual-Radio access Network (vRAN) capabilities through investment in ASOCS. Collectively, these capabilities have been helping reneweddemandgrowthforSTL. n

Sterlite Technologies Awarded T-Fiber Project in Telangana

The multi-year deal worth about Rs. 1,800 crore requires STL to design, build and manage a rural broadband network across 3,000 gram panchayats in Telangana.

January 2, 2020

Sterlite Technologies was recently awarded the mandate to create a high speed rural broadband network from Telangana Fiber Grid Corporation Ltd. (TFiber). Supporting the vision to establish a 'Digital Telangana', T-Fiber and STL will work together for enabling affordable and high-speed broadband connectivity to 6 millionruralcitizensinthestateofTelangana.

Government of Telangana is taking big leaps to build and leverage the broadband infrastructure under BharatNet, which aims to provide broadband connectivity to all 250,000 gram panchayats in the country. As a state-led program, Telangana Government has initiated T-Fiber to provide broadband connectivity up to the household level across the state by rolling-out optical fiber and network infrastructure.

STL was awarded a work order for about Rs.1100 crore for Phase - 1 of the project. The total project value is worth aboutRs.1800croreforwhichSTLhasreceivedtheletterof intent.

This turnkey project entails designing and building an endto-end rural broadband network across 11 districts, 3000 gram panchayats of Telangana and managing the network for an additional seven years. The project has a significant

O&M revenue stream, close to 30% of the overall Project value.

The scope includes rolling out end-to-end network connectivitybydeploying64,000KmsofOFC(OpticalFiberCable) Network, as well as deploying IPMPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching), a routing technique and GPON (Gigabit Passive Optical Network), a point to multipoint access to create seamless network connectivity. STL will leverage its latest network solutions such as LEAD360, iCORE and FTTxMantratodeliverthisproject. n

Sterlite Power Signs Technology Agreement with Smart Wires

Smart Wires has successfully deployed SmartValve globally across the US, Europe and Australia. SmartValve increases power transfer capability by making better use of an existing network.

January 23, 2020

terlite Power, a leading global developer in power Stransmission, has inked an exclusive agreement with U.S. based Smart Wires to introduce a revolutionary technology for the Indian power sector that will enable resourceful grid management. This cutting-edge technology is an intelligent 'valve,' that will allow utilities to optimally utilize its existing transmission capacity and enhance gridflexibility.

Speaking on the technology agreement, Pratik Agarwal, Managing Director, Sterlite Power said, “An environmentally sustainable electricity system is the anchor for a modern society. We are growing at an incredible pace and

need to look for innovative solutions for rising grid outages due to climate change, lack of land to build new lines and integration of renewable energy. Modernizing the grid to make it 'smarter' through the use of cutting-edge technology is going to disrupt the landscape and technology is reallygoingtobethegamechangerinthisfield.”

Power networks in India have been facing major transmission congestion challenges due to exponential growth in demand for power and rapid urbanization. Congestion is often seen in sub-transmission lines where it is a chal-

lenge to connect renewable power. In this context, alleviating congestion and enhancing grid flexibility becomes critical.

Manish Agarwal, CEO, Solutions, Sterlite Power, said, “We are passionate proponents of disruptive technologies that can help our customers meet their energy delivery needs and address the coinciding challenges of time, space and capital. This technology will enable better power flow, grid stability and enhanced power transfer capacity in existing infrastructurewithouttheneedforinvestmentinnewlines.” n

Government Issues Quality Control Orders on Various Steel Items

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has come out with two separate orders as per which substandard steel items and cables' imports will have to conform to the specified standards and bear the standard mark under a license from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

January 23, 2020

In a move to curb imports of certain substandard steel items and cables, the government has issued quality controlordersforvarioussteelproducts.

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has come out with two separate orders as per which these products will have to conform to the specified standards and bear the standard mark under a license from theBureauofIndianStandards(BIS).

“The BIS shall be the certifying and enforcing authority for thegoods,”thedepartmentsaidintheorders.

The goods include steel tubes, tubulars and other wrought steel fitting, steel tubes for structural purposes and water wells. The order pertaining to cables is applicable to heavy duty electric cables, aerial bunched cables, elastomer insulated cables, welding cables, shot firing cables and halogen free flame retardant cables. The move assumes significance as the government is working to formulate technical regulations such as safety and quality standards for over 350 products to curb imports of non-essential items.

Both the orders will come into force with effect from August 1.

In FY19, India's total trade deficit was a record USD 176.42 billion.

As per the orders, the notified items cannot be produced, sold/ traded, imported and stocked unless they bear BIS mark. The order excludes products meant for export. “Exclusion of export is for purpose that Indian manufacturers making such items for foreign market need not comply as they need to comply with the destination market standards,”saidanofficial. n

Gujarat Plans First Digital Village By 2021

The move is expected to benefit as many as 3.5 crore rural inhabitants across more than 18,000 villages in the western Indian state.

February 11, 2020

Gujarat is expected to become the first Indian state to develop full-fledged Digital Village in 2021, offering an array of government-to-citizen (G2C) services to benefit as many as 67,75,000 rural households following the BharatNet'sopticfiber-connectednetworkbackbone.

''By 2021, BharatNet would pave a way to uplift villages, transform citizens into netizens, and ultimately connect the government services with Digital Village in Gujarat." Hareet Shukla, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology (DST),''asreportedinaleadingdaily.

By provisioning up to 100 Mbps Internet speed, the state government is taking a big leap in rural transformation with optical-fiber highway becoming a backbone network for all socio-economic activities under the ambitious Digital Villageprogram.

Gujarat Fiber Grid Network Limited (GFGNL), a Special

Purpose Vehicle (SPV) has been deploying the state-wide fiber network together with GTPL Hathway Limited and PolycabIndiaLimitedconsortium. n

Secunderabad Gets Its First Exclusive Finolex House

This launch marks Finolex's foray into the exclusive retail market of Secunderabad after their foray in Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.

Finolex Cables Limited, India's leading manufacturer of

electrical and communication cables inaugurated 'Finolex House' – its first exclusive brand retail store in Secunderabad,thetwincityofHyderabad.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Deepak Chhabria, Executive Chairman, Finolex Cables Limited said, “We are extremely delighted to launch our first Finolex House in Secunderabad. Finolex cables continues to be the preferred choice for customers, as the brand gets a step closer to consumers who are seeking not only beautiful but safe homes. The newly launched Finolex House will cater to the specific requirements of the discerning consumer by offeringthemqualityoptionsunderoneroof.”

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Amit Mathur, Sr. Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Finolex Cables Ltd said “The showroom will serve consumers, who are building or refurbishing homes as the store is designed to offer end-toend electrical solutions from a range of high quality wires & cablestoelectricalfittings.”

The product range includes Electrical Wires, Industrial Flexibles, 3 Core Flat Cables and Winding Wires, Auto & Battery Cables, Low Voltage and High Voltage Power Cables, Coaxial Cables, Speaker Cables, Telephone Cables, CCTV Cables, Solar Cables, Optic Fiber Cables, Fans & Water Heaters, Switches & Accessories, SwitchgearproductsandLEDLightingProducts. n

Prysmian Group Launches Record-Breaking Cables for FTTx and 5G Networks

Sirocco HD cables provide the smallest diameters and highest fiber densities for microduct cables.

February 3, 2020

Prysmian Group has launched its Sirocco High Density range of microduct cables, providing world record diameters and fiber densities for blown microduct cables. The new range boasts fiber densities of up to 10.5 fibers per mm2, enabling increased fiber count cables to be offered forstandardmicroductsizes.

Sirocco HD microduct cables utilize Prysmian's BendBright-A2 200µm single-mode (ITU-TG.657.A2) bend insensitive fiber, providing a solution that's ready for evolved systems and truly future-proof. “Bend-insensitive fiber optic cables are a crucial part of the world's shift towards flexible and reliable connectivity” states Ian Griffiths, Director R&D Telecom Business at Prysmian Group “With their extreme fiber count and reduced diameter, Sirocco HD microduct cables make installation faster, more cost effective and more sustainable by reducing the impact on carbon footprint. Designed for installation into microducts, they are perfectly fit for blowing in high density access,FTTxand5Gnetworks”.

Available in fiber counts from 96 to 552 and conforming to international standards for optical and mechanical performance, the Sirocco HD cables also benefit by the use of Prysmian's PicoTube technology making them up to 20 percent smaller than previously available microduct cables. This makes it possible to install more fibers into congested

duct space, and enables the use of smaller ducts for new installations,resultinginlowerinstallationcostsandtheuse of minimum raw materials. This provides benefits for both the total cost of network deployment and the environmental footprint.

WiththesecablesPrysmianGroupcontinuestoprovethatit truly is a global manufacturer that leverages on its worldwide knowledge and capabilities to respond to the always growing technological challenges that its customers are facing. Sirocco HD product enhancements show the Group's commitment to respond to the evolving needs of the market and to offer a scalable solution that's highdensity, physically compact, and easily deployable for a future-fitsolution. n

Nexans Secures Order to Supply HV Submarine Power

Cables

For Off-shore Project in Arabian Gulf

Submarine power cables will feature an internal fiber optical element.

exans was awarded a significant Purchase Order to Nsupply 180 km of 230 kV cables for the offshore Marjan increment development mega-project on the easterncoastoftheArabianGulf.

Discovered in 1967, the Marjan field is one of the oldest and biggest offshore oil and gas fields in the Arabian Gulf. It is currently undergoing expansion under the Marjan IncrementProgrammeannouncedin2017.

Nexans will supply two lengths of 90 km of 230kV HVAC three-core submarine power cables with an internal fiber optical element. Nexans is one of the very few suppliers in the world capable to manufacture, test, store, transport and

install such very long length cables in one complete segmentwithouttheneedforoffshorejoints.

Nexans was selected owing to its, extensive subsea experience and commercial competitiveness. The Group's brand-new cable-laying vessel to come, Nexans Aurora will be deployed in the Marjan Program. “Nexans is delighted with the trust shown in us, and we're looking forward to adding the Marjan increment development project to our

strong track record of subsea projects, building on over 60 years of experience in submarine cable systems around the world,” said Ole Kristian Mysen, Export Sales Manager Submarine&LandSystemsatNexans.

The composite submarine cables for the link will be producedbyNexansNorwayplantinHalden,whilethefiber optical cable will be produced at Nexans Norway specializedfactoryinRognan. n

Government Plans Rs 11,000 Crore Transmission Line For Renewable Power Projects in Ladakh

The transmission line will initially transfer around 2500 MW electricity and will be developed in the third phase of the green energy corridors to help tap Ladakh's solar power potential of 40 GW.

February 18, 2020

In a bid to give a boost to the develop-

ment of the newly-created UT of Ladakh, the Government of India is planning to set up a 900-km long power transmission line that will help the large solar and wind projects in the region to supplyelectricityacrossthecountry

According to the media reports, the move is part of India's strategy to develop the UT as the project, estimated to cost around Rs 11000 crore, would help in resolving the grid connectivity problems faced by the region. It is also expected to attract investments for green energy projects

inthecolddesertregion.

The project will help in supplying electricity to the people of Leh and Kargil districts as well as defence establishments during harsh winters. It will also help in transmitting surplus power to the rest of country during summers.

“Various options are being discussed to facilitate the power transmission project. It can be either a VGF (viability grant funding) project or a PPP (publicprivate partnership) project or a mix of both. It may also have a generation component,” Anand Kumar, secretary intheUnionPowerMinistry.

However, its construction will be a logistical challenge, considering the region remains snow covered for nearly six months with very low temperatureandoxygenlevels.

As per the report, several places in the country including Ladakh, Thar desert, Rann of Kutch, Lahaul and Spiti have the potential to generate 315.7 GW of solar and wind energy, and will required investments of over Rs 4.3 lakh crores over the next 30 years, according to a study conducted by the state-owned PowerGridCorporationofIndiaLimited (PGCL). n

Manufacturers & Exporters of: Hot Foil Marking Tape for Cable & PE Pipes

Plastics, H-1267, DSIIDC, Narela Indl. Area, Delhi-110040. INDIA E-mail: magplastics@gmail.com Mob: +91 9312965386, www.magplastics.com

LS Cable & System Signs Contact to Supply HVDC Cable to KEPCO

All across the globe, only LS C&S and five companies in Europe and Japan possess HVDC cable technology. The company explained that the cables are in the early stage of commercialization, so not many companies possess both the technology and construction capabilities.

February 11, 2020

LS Cable & System has signed a contract with Korea

Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) to supply KRW 108.6billionofHVDC(highvoltagedirectcurrent)cables.

This project is for the stable supply of power to industrial complexesinthemetropolitanareabyconnectingthe35km distance from the power plant in Seohaean Chungnam to Pyeongtaek,Gyeonggi-do.

With a single HVDC line, 3GW of power can be transmitted, which is equal to the power generated from three nuclear power plants. This is the world's largest power transmission capacity and is 4.5 times more than current HVAC (high voltagealternatingcurrent)cable.

This is the fourth project in the domestic HVDC market since European cables were first installed between Haenam and Jeju in 1997. That was before cables were developed in Korea. Since then, LS C&S has obtained the followingsecond,thirdandfourthprojects.

President & CEO Roe-hyun Myung of LS C&S said, “Korea

is leading the global next-generation power business with HVDC and hyper-conductive cables, fueled by KEPCO's energy efficiency business. Based on our technological independence achieved in Korea, we will actively expand ouroverseasmarkets.” n

Borealis Polyolefin Innovations Enable Transition to Lower Carbon Energy Future

In line with efforts to enhance sustainable development in all aspects of company operations, Borealis is reducing its CO2 footprint at its own facilities.

February 5, 2020

Borealis has announced an important

milestone in its efforts to facilitate a more sustainable energy future. The high voltage direct current (HVDC) cable compound based on Borealis Borlink™ technology is being used in crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) power cables qualified for the tender of the “German corridor projects“. This enormous undertaking will transport renewable energy from wind farms off the north coast of Germany to southern areas of the country. Borealis Borlink is a crucial component in XLPE high-voltage power cables enabling

HVDC technology transmitting electricity over longer distances with minimal losses. What is more, the material XLPE offers the additional sustainability benefit of being recyclable.

As a responsible supplier of value-adding polymers, Borealis has laid out key objectives in its overall sustainability strategy: to enhance sustainable development in all aspects of company operations as well as in the entire supply chain; and to identify business growth opportunities which promote greater sustainability. In practice, this means innovating and collaborating with partners in order to

develop polyolefins-based solutions that enhance energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and accelerate the uptakeofrenewableenergysourcesonthelargestpossible scale. XLPE made with Borealis Borlink extruded HVDC technology is one prime example of how these objectives havebeensuccessfullyrealizedinpractice.

By 2030, the company aims to have significantly reduced CO2 emissions from operations by using 50 percent of electricity from renewable sources; by increasing energy efficiency by 20 percent compared to a 2015 baseline; practicing zero continuous flaring; and capitalizing on opportunitiesforcarboncapture,utilization,andstorage. n

Borealis Launches ADCA-Free Compound He1355 for Telecommunications Cables

The new compound was successfully tested in a series of customer trials before its global launch in 2019.

Borealis has launched HE1355, a high density polyeth-

ylene (HDPE) grade free of azodicarbonamide (ADCA) for telecommunications cables. It is the world's first chemically-foamed, ADCA-free material intended for the productionoftelecommunicationscables.

This launch builds on the long Borealis track record of innovation in the most demanding Wire & Cable segments. As a reliable partner to the industry, Borealis is using its innovation expertise to enable cable manufacturers to futureproof their production operations: the use of HE1355 allows them to bypass altogether any issues arising from the plannedinclusionofADCAontheEU'sAnnexXIVofREACH (“Authorisation List”). Thus cable manufacturers can rely on being able to maintain seamless production, irrespective of anypotentialdisruptioncausedbylegislativechanges.

The optimal cell structure of HE1355 makes it highly suitable for applications such as foam or foam-skin

World's first chemically-foamed, high density polyethylene grade free of azodicarbonamide.

insulation for telephone singles and data cables with a typical expansion of 35%-40%, as well as for dry core and petroleumjelly-filledcables. n

EESL Invites Bids for Evacuation Bays and Transmission Lines for 300 MW of Solar Projects

EESL is a joint venture of the public-sector units of the Ministry of Power and the Government of India.

February 28, 2020

Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) has floated

an invitation for bids (IFB) to construct power evacuation bays and transmission lines for nearly 300 MW of solar projectsinthestateofMaharashtra.

The scope of work involves liaison for land acquisition, including getting necessary clearance and site surveys. Both EESL and Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company (MSEDCL) will assist in the liaison work. The work would also include planning, design, engineering, installation, testing, and commissioning of the new 11kV/22kVpowerevacuationbaysandoverheadlines. n Transmission Lines

Tata Power and Adani Transmission in Talks with Essel Group to Buy its Power Line

According to the media reports, the talks are at an initial stage and a deal depends on various factors including valuations, state of the project and how much haircut lenders are willing to take, these people said.

Essel Group is in talks with Adani Transmission and Tata

Power to sell its under-construction Warora-Kurnool transmissionlineinanattempttolowerdebt.

The Warora-Kurnool transmission line was the biggest inter-regional transmission project awarded under interstate tariff-based competitive bidding in July 2016. The 765 kV project, which included laying of transmission lines in central India from Warora in Maharashtra and Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh, was supposed to facilitate distribution of power to the southern region. However, it has been hit by delays as the timeline for the scheduled commissioning of theprojectispastitsNovember2019deadline.

In June last year, Essel Infraprojects had sold two transmission assets namely, Darbhanga-Motihari Transmission and NRSS XXXI (B) Transmission, to Edelweiss Infrastructure Yield Plus Fund. That agreement had given Edelweiss the right to purchase two other transmission assets owned by Essel, the Warora-Kurnool Transmission and NRSS XXXVI Transmission. However,

Hyderabad,

and

Edelweiss is no longer interested in these projects because of the delays in execution.

The initial contract period for the project was 35 years post commissioning of the project. It is also unclear whether the delays in commissioning will lead to any changes in the contract. n

Metalube Invests in New Laboratory Equipment

The quality control department has also capitalized in a new automated viscosity and density meter which speeds up and improves accuracy of viscosity testing.

February 4, 2020

As part of an ongoing investment programme into

research, innovation and new product development, global lubricant manufacturer Metalube has purchased a brandnewLR-2.STLaboratorySystem.

Thequalitycontroldepartmenthasalsocapitalizedinanew automated viscosity and density meter which speeds up andimprovesaccuracyofviscositytesting.

The latest Reactor is a modular laboratory reactor for simulationandoptimisationofchemicalreactionsaswellas homogenizing processes in a laboratory scale. It offers torque control, heat control and homogenization allowing the company to optimise production efficiency and aiding scalability. n

L&T Construction Arm Bags Power T&D Projects in India and Abroad

According to the media reports, the projects are estimated to be in the range of Rs 2,500-5,000 crore.

February 10, 2020

The power transmission and distribution (T&D) business

of L&T Construction has secured orders from clients in India,thePhilippinesandSaudiArabia.

In Saudi Arabia, it has bagged orders to construct a 380 kV substation with an associated 230 kV cable network, and establish 380 kV and 230 kV transmission line corridors. It has received another order from a customer in West Asia to constructEHVoverheadlines,thefilingsaid.

In the Philippines, the business has won an order to construct a 500 kV substation in association with a local player, which will cater to the growing demand for electricity inthemetropolitanareaofManila.

L&T has also won an order in Gujarat to construct a 765 kV double circuit transmission line that will help transmit power from renewable energy sources, said the filing. It has

additionally bagged an order to build a 20 MW floater solar power project at a reservoir of NTPC's Auraiya Gas Power PlantinUttarPradesh. n

Riyadh Cables Secures Approval for 400 kV EHV Cable System

Initial system test was finished at the end of 2018, while the PQ tests were finished at the end of 2019. Final approval for the system from Saudi Electricity Company was finalized on February 2020.

February 20, 2020

Global leading cable manufacturer

Riyadh Cables has recently opened power transmission and distribution market opportunities, by investing in new production and testing facilities for Extra High Voltage cablesystems.

Riyadh Cables has signed a technology know-how transfer agreement with Brugg Cables, to start producing two new 400 kV EHV cable systems, conforming with specifications set by Riyadh Cables' client Saudi Electricity Company.

KEMA Laboratories in the Netherlands completed the System and PQ tests as per IEC 62067 standard for power cables with extruded insulation and their accessories for rated voltages above150kVandupto500kV.

Circuit configuration werenearlyidenticalforbothsystems.

The two 400kV systems included two joints, one directly buried and the other installed in a tunnel; two SF6 terminations, one plug-in dry type, and the other a wet type; and two outdoor terminations. All of the accessories

The two cables, installed in series, were both 2500 mm2 however the cableconstructionvariedwithdifferent sized insulation thickness, metallic screeningandoutersheathing. n