Blog
Horizon Utility Supplies Introducing Cable Safety Improvements to UK DNO’s
January 25th, 2024
Press Release | 26.1.2024
Thorne & Derrick, the Specialist Distributor of LV HV Cable Accessories, Tooling & Substation Equipment, are delighted to announce a Partnership Agreement with Horizon Utility Supplies Ltd, one of the largest suppliers of Tools & Equipment to the UK DNO’s.
“Our Partnership Agreement is focussed on the introduction of the Vicera APU2.0 Cable Jointers Stand to the UK DNO’s and National Grid. Initial interest and sales uptake has been outstanding with immediate acceptance by several utility clients of Horizon and field trials ongoing with others. The APU2.0 is now available from stock at Horizon – please do hesitate contact them for further information, site demonstration or sales enquiries.”
“Thorne & Derrick introduced the Vicera range into the UK early last year and the product has been adopted by many High Voltage Power Contractors, ICP’s, Cable & Accessory Manufacturers including Nexans, 3M, Hellenic, NKT, Tyco and Pfisterer. Working alongside the team at Horizon we look forward to improving cable safety and working practices within the UK DNO’s,” comments Chris Dodds (Thorne & Derrick Sales & Marketing Manager).
“Horizon Utility Supplies are excited to announce our partnership with Thorne & Derrick, for promoting the Vicera APU2.0 Cable Jointer Stand into the major utilities in the Electricity Supply Industry. This collaboration allows us to use the strengths of both companies to deliver workplace solutions to our customers and reflects our shared dedication to meet the evolving needs of our industry.”
“The Vicera range of products offers a great opportunity to kick-start our Partnership, fitting perfectly into our portfolio of products for the supply of equipment for the care and maintenance of the utility network within UK DNO’s. We are very much looking forward to working with our partners at Thorne & Derrick,” comments Richard Casey (Horizon Utility Supplies, Managing Director).
APU2.0 | Cable Stability & Support for MV HV Cable Jointing & Termination
The Vicera APU2.0 Jointers Stand for both field or training centre use provides safe and stable support of Low, Medium & High Voltage Cables – the cable stands are suitable for cable diameters 18-90mm with adjustable height for substation, joint bays or trench use.
The Cable Joint Stands feature step-less lateral and tilt adjustment and high strength clamps to prevent cable slippage or movement while jointing – secure and balanced cables when Jointers are undertaking highly skill-sensitive cable preparation prevents inadvertent damage to cables and future potential O&M reliability.
The cable support stands are rugged and durable for outdoor use in joint bays and trenches in all ground terrain conditions – this includes the support of 11kV/33kV/66kV cables to enable precise cable preparation by the Jointer prior to installation of joints, terminations or connectors on medium/high voltage power cables.
Stability & Security of Power Cables
Horizon Utility Suppliers were established in 1996 specialising in the distribution of equipment and PPE for working live on overhead power lines and underground cables – Horizon hold a reputation for engineering custom-solutions to provide problem solving and innovative products for Linesmen, Jointers, Substation Fitters & Utility Engineers.
Tel: +44 (0)1275 342700 | [email protected]
LV HV | Cable Jointing, Termination, Substation & Electrical Eqpt 600V to 66kV
The POWER Connected | Thorne & Derrick and PFISTERER Training Day
January 24th, 2024Earlier today at PFISTERER Sheffield the Thorne & Derrick Team benefitted incredibly from a Practical Training Day covering the benefits, specification and installation of CONNEX & SICON brands of MV Cable Accessories. The world-class standard of Cable Preparation Skills demonstrated by Dan & Jon using PENTA FRANCE (Alroc) & Ripley Tools assists our ability to provide technical support to customers.
Commercially, we are now further increasing both the levels and extending the lines of our PFISTERER stocks at Thorne & Derrick.
Thanks so much to Daniel Leech, Jon Reed, Mark Hanlon, Bethany Dodson, Tracey Stevenson, Cathy Longstone & Paul Tuckwood.
THORNE & DERRICK LV-HV Cable Accessories, Jointing, Tooling, Substation & Electrical Safety Eqpt | Approved PFISTERER UK Stockists.
PFISTERER with Thorne & Derrick
Ripley US02 Tool – The “Red Ripley”
Pfisterer Cable Training School for Jointers
Alroc CWB – The “Blue Tool”
Stripping MV Medium Voltage Cables 33kV
MV HV Cable Jointers Tools Sets
Supporting Cables Using Vicera Jointers Stands for MV HV Cables
Thorne & Derrick | Distributed from Stock | Approved Supplier | UK & Export Sales
When Are Arc Flash Switching Suits Required?
January 22nd, 2024
STRATA Workwear Arc Flash Protective Clothing Range
Arc Flash Switching Suits
Thorne & Derrick are the UK’s Leading Specialist Distributor of Electrical Safety Equipment to clients working in the Power Transmission & Distribution industry in the onshore and offshore wind, solar, rail, oil/gas, data centre, battery storage and utility sectors – we supply arc flash clothing from a range of brands including STRATA® Protection.
STRATA® Protection a the leading Arc & Flame Protective Clothing brand in the Energy Sector including arc flash switching suits for the protection of workers.
Arc flash switching suits are required in situations where electrical systems pose a risk and are specially designed suits that are used in situations where electrical systems have the potential to release intense energy in the form of an arc flash event. These suits are commonly worn by professionals working in electrical, utility, and industrial sectors.
Switching suits are specifically designed to provide multiple levels of protection against the hazards associated with arc flash events. These suits are categorised based on their ability to shield the wearer from thermal energy, flames, and other hazardous elements.
Wearing the proper arc flash suit is essential in high-risk work environments, where electrical equipment or systems may be subject to faults or malfunctions that could result in an arc flash event. These environments include power plants, substations, electrical maintenance and repair, and other industrial settings – protecting utility workers against arc flash dangers posed during maintenance on underground electric cables, overhead line conductors or electrical equipment.
What garments does an arc flash suit comprise of?
Thorne & Derrick understand how critical it is to have reliable, highest quality personal protection equipment (PPE), clothing and arc workwear available from stock at competitive prices
The arc flash kit typically consists of:
- Arc Flash Hood: A hood designed to cover the head and neck, often featuring a built-in face shield and integrated hard hat. Designed to be used alongside your existing clothing systems to provide specialist protection when working with high incident energy levels
- Arc Flash Jacket: A flame-resistant jacket is tailored to cover the upper body completely, including the torso, arms, and neck, providing a reliable barrier against extreme temperatures and potential burns. Available in a range of different size, including ‘extra small’ (XS) all the way through to 4XL
- Arc Flash Trousers: Specially designed trousers or dungarees that offer protection for the lower body. These garments help guard against thermal hazards and electrical risks arising from arc flash events. Available in a range of different size, including ‘extra small’ (XS) all the way through to 4XL (size 8 to 18 for women)
- Arc Flash Gloves: Insulated gloves made from arc-rated materials, intended to safeguard the hands against the cuts, abrasions, and burns that are possible during an arc flash incident while maintaining dexterity. Available in a range of different sizes
- Storage Bag: A dedicated bag for storing and transporting the components of the arc flash switching suit kit.
All these components work together to provide comprehensive protection against the hazards associated with arc flashes and electrical incidents. It is crucial to select items that meet relevant safety standards and are tested and certified for arc flash protection. Regular training on the proper use and maintenance of these components is also essential to ensure workers’ safety.
When do I need to wear my arc flash Switching suit?
You are required to wear your arc flash switching suit whenever you are working on or near electrical systems or equipment that pose a potential arc flash hazard. This includes situations where there is a risk of electrical faults or when you are working with energised electrical systems.
It is essential to wear arc flash suits to protect yourself from the thermal and electrical hazards associated with arc flashes.
The specific requirements for wearing arc flash suits may vary depending on your local regulations, employer policies, and the level of hazard present. It is crucial to follow industry standards and guidelines to ensure your safety.
Here are some examples of situations you would consider wearing one:
- Switchgear Operations: When interacting with electrical equipment like switchgear, arc flash suits provide indispensable protection against arc flash incidents during maintenance, inspections, or troubleshooting
- Electrical Panel Work: Wiring, repairing, or maintaining electrical panels pose inherent risks, demanding the use of arc flash suits to mitigate potential dangers
- Circuit Breaker Maintenance: Activities involving circuit breaker maintenance and repair require the full-body coverage offered by arc flash suits to prevent severe injuries
- Panel Inspections: During inspections, repairs, or maintenance of electrical panels and distribution boards
Arc Flash Clothing Kit 40 Cal
How often do arc flash suits need to be tested?
It’s important to note that while periodic non-destructive testing is not required for arc flash suits, it is still crucial to adhere to industry standards, guidelines, and manufacturer recommendations to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the suits.
However, the frequency of testing may vary depending on the usage, condition, manufacturer’s recommendations, and relevant industry standards or regulations. Additionally, suits should be inspected prior to each use for any signs of damage or wear and should be replaced if necessary.
However, there are recommendations out there for maintenance:
- Consider replacing the clothing for the suit every 10 years (this will depend on how often you are using the suit, less frequent usage may result in the kit lasting longer)
- Keep your arc suit clothing free of oil, grease, dust or – carefully read the laundering instructions to maintain the integrity of the garment.
- Refresh your face shield every 5 years. Should the face shield show substantial scratches or discolouration, take immediate action to replace it.
- Audit your full kit – take the time to look for scratches on your helmet, rips or snags in your clothing and take the safest course of actions after the audit and replace where necessary.
Alternatives to Arc Flash Suits
It is important to note that the effectiveness of arc flash clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE) depends on various factors such as the level of risk, the specific tasks involved, and the hazard analysis conducted.
While layering other items of arc flash clothing and PPE can provide adequate protection, it is crucial to ensure that each layer is properly selected and compliant with relevant safety standards. The layering should also not compromise mobility or restrict the wearer’s ability to perform their tasks safely.
Providing a variety of options for engineers to choose from can certainly contribute to their comfort and well-being. It is important, however, to prioritise safety and effectiveness in selecting the appropriate arc flash clothing and PPE. Regular maintenance and inspection of these items should also be carried out to ensure continued protection.
Further Reading: STRATA Workwear | Skanwear Arc Flash Clothing & Protection
ELECTRICAL SAFETY PROVIDERS
We protect substation engineers, asset managers, SAPS, cable jointers, overhead linesmen and utility workers with PPE and safety equipment: this includes insulating gloves, arc flash clothing, voltage detectors, insulating matting and portable earthing to ensure worker safety when carrying out repair and maintenance on LV-HV switchgear, transformers, substations and turbines.
All of our Cable Connection & Energisation Accessories including Medium & High Voltage joints, terminations, connectors and cleats are tested to the latest international standards and supporting ranges of professional installation tools are stocked to reduce incident, accident and downtime to plant and people.
Story Time | The History of Klauke
January 8th, 2024Klauke Crimping & Cutting Tools
Do you know the history of Klauke?
Klauke is a leading manufacturer of cable crimping and cable cutting tools, the company has been in business for over 140 years.
It all began in 1879, when Gustav Klauke and his brother founded the company Gustav Klauke. At that time, the production program included high-quality pliers, primarily in the watchmaker trade.
In 1924, the founder’s sons, Gustav Klauke II and Max Klauke, took over the management of the company.
In 1960, the decision was made to produce cable lugs and corresponding tools. Klauke began to focus on developing tools for the electrical industry. They pioneered the development of manual crimping and cutting tools, which quickly gained popularity due to their high quality and reliability.
The Present Day
Did you also know that the first battery-powered hydraulic tool for connecting material was manufactured in 1994?
In 2014, the Klauke Micro with PowerSense function appeared on the market.
In July 2018, the company was acquired by Emerson and is now part of the “Professional Tools” division. Klauke celebrated its 140th anniversary the following year.
Over the years, Klauke expanded its product range to include hydraulic and battery-powered crimping and cutting tools to meet the growing demand in various industries such as electrical installations, air conditioning and refrigeration, automotive, and telecommunications.
Klauke prides itself on its innovative designs and commitment to manufacturing tools that meet the highest standards of quality and precision. Their tools are designed to be ergonomic, durable, and easy to use, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
Let’s take a closer look at their history below:
1924 – 1879
In 1924, the founder’s sons, Gustav Klauke II and Max Klauke, took over the management of the company
1924
The sons of the founder, Gustav Klauke II and Max Klauke, take over the management. The pliers product range is continued.
1912
Hand-forged pilers have been dropped and replaced by forged pliers. Mass production has begun. The company has approx. 60 employees.
1906
The Gustav Klauke company is entered in the Commercial Register as a “General Trading Company”. The factory space covers 1,200 m2.
1879
In 1879, 24-year old Gustav Klauke and his brother found the Gustav Klauke company in Stephanstrasse in the Osterbusch area of Remscheid, Germany with 5 employees. At the time, the product range comprises high-quality pliers, which find a ready market, primarily in the watchmaker trade, due to clean hand forging.
1959 – 1925
1925, the first English language catalogue for the piler range was created
1948
Following the death of Gustav Klauke II, in keeping with old traditions, the company is managed by his son-in-law Gustav Diederichs together with Max Klauke, and is converted into a limited liability company.
1930
The sales market is expanded by translating the catalogues into French and Spanish.
1925
The first English language catalogue for the pliers range appears. From the outset, Klauke goes for high-quality tools for the international markets too.
1979 – 1960
1979 Klauke celebrates 100 years of business
1979
Gustav Klauke GmbH celebrates its centenary in Remscheid.
1978
Karl-Gustav Diederichs becomes sole Managing Director and oversees 85 employees.
1968
The production of traditional pliers is ceased. At the same time, the production of cable lugs and crimping tools is extended.
1965
Gustav Diederichs’ son, Karl-Gustav Diederichs joins the company. There are now 45 employees.
1960
Increasing electrification gives the impetus to the decision to produce cable lugs and corresponding tools.
1990 – 1980
Between 1980-1990 increased their office space and number of employees
1990
To keep up with the steady growth, an adjacent 3,000 m2 piece of land is purchased. Thanks to an existing hall, a further 2,000 m2 production area is added. Klauke now has approx. 160 employees.
1988
The entire company moves into the new premises in Remscheid-Ueberfeld. The production and storage facilities now cover some 9,000 m2.
1984
Production in the new halls is started on an area of over 4,000 m2 .
1980
Covering an area of 6,000 m2 , the original premises on Stephanstrasse are too small for continued company growth. In the Remscheid-Überfeld industrial area, land measuring about 17,000 m2 is acquired for the construction of new production, storage and office space.
1995 – 1991
1994 the first battery-powered hydrau;ic tool for connectig material is manufactured.
1995
Klauke attains ISO 9001 certification for the first time.
1994
The first battery-powered hydraulic tool for connecting material is manufactured. The development and distribution of special products for the sanitary and heating industry starts – accompanied by the first catalogue for this field of application.
1993
Klauke Austria is established in Vienna. In the same year, INDIS, headquartered in Creutzwald, is integrated into the Klauke Group as Klauke France. At the same time, Dr Peters is bought out by Klauke. It produced connecting material and tools.
1991
Following the reunification of Germany, Gustav Klauke GmbH acquires HAW in Saxony, the current Bernsdorf branch covering a total area of 10,000 m².
1999 – 1996
In 1998 Klauke expansion of distribution activities through TEXTRON’s Singapore office
1999
Karl Gustav Diederichs retires. A new product platform for hand-operated and battery-powered hydraulic crimping tools with 6 and 12 tonnes of crimping force is introduced. SAP R/3 is introduced at the Klauke headquarters in Remscheid.
1998
Expansion of distribution activities through TEXTRON’s Singapore office.
1997
Klauke starts marketing Greenlee cable pulling equipment in Europe. Hole-making, punching and cutting tools, as well as cable-pulling products are offered.
1996
Klauke is integrated into Textron , the American multi-industry group of companies. This gives the worldwide presence of Klauke and Greenlee products significant impetus. A new building with a further 5,000 m² of production and office spaces emerges on the neighbouring plot in Remscheid-Ueberfeld acquired in 1990.
2006 – 2000
In 2001, Klauke UK, the sales office for Great Britain and Ireland opened.
2006
Klauke supports the “Electric Brands. Strong Partners” initiative for increasing brand awareness and becomes a member of “E-CHECK”, the test seal for electrical installations and devices. Klauke complements the existing product range with professional tools for commercial and industrial use.
2005
Greenlee products from the testing, measuring and inspection device range are introduced and distributed through Klauke.
2004
The Klauke Group celebrates 125 years in existence in Remscheid with a big party. The Klauke Service Mobile for on-site operations at customer premises is introduced. The vehicle fleet is continuously expanded over the next few years. The activities of Tempo Europe Limited are fully integrated into Klauke.
2003
The newly defined “Klauke Production Principle” is put into practice under LEAN and KAIZEN perspectives. The cooperation with “Voltimum”, the central Internet portal for all information concerning modern electronic installation technology begins.
2002
The Klauke mini, an innovative, light and easy-to-use tool, is produced on a new hydraulic tool platform and introduced onto the market. Together with the geographical expansion, sales of the international plumbing business increases noticeably.
2001
Klauke UK, the sales office for Great Britain and Ireland is opened.
2000
The Klauke multi, the universal tool patented worldwide for crimping, cutting and hole-making is launched onto the market. Expansion of distribution activities through the TEXTRON office in Shanghai.
2012 – 2007
2009 Safety Plus Generation of battery-powered hydrauic crimping, cutting and universal tools are launched on the market
2012
The distribution office in Bangalore (India) is expanded to industrial premises with assembly capacity, Service Centre and warehouse. Development of activities according to the Lean Management Concept for Marketing/Sales and Administration. The innovative “blue connection” system for the standardised crimping of compacted, multi-stranded conductors according to VDE 0295 Class 2 is introduced onto the market.
2010
Klauke receives the FACHMETALL QM Context Award. This is in recognition of the continuously high quality of tested materials.
2009
The battery-powered hydraulic crimping, cutting and universal tools of the Safety Plus Generation are launched on the market. Klauke is certified for the first time according to ISO/TS 16949 (quality management system of the automotive industry) and ISO 14001 (environmental management system).
2008
The Klauke India sales office is opened in Bangalore. Utilux Europe, with sites in Slovakia and Great Britain, is bought out and integrated into the Klauke Group.
2007
The distribution company Klauke Russia is established in Moscow. A new central logistics centre is put into operation in Remscheid.
2016 – 2013
In 2014 Klauke Micro, the world’s first electromechanical crimping tool with PowerSense technology is launched on the market
2016
Internet of Things and Industry 4.0 are trends that Klauke has already taken up with the next generation and is thus setting new standards. The new battery-powered hydraulic tools have a Bluetooth interface for mobile data read-out and tool configuration. Klauke Bernsdorf has been producing high-quality tools for 25 years.
2015
Klauke launches sale of HDE products in EMEA and India. Introduction of the new Klauke mini for the electrical and plumbing trades. The Klauke Ideas Management Scheme celebrates its tenth anniversary and receives an award from the German Institute for Ideas and Innovation Management. Klauke supports the “Ecurie Aix” team from RWTH Aachen University by providing tools and cable lugs.
2014
The Klauke micro, the world’s first electromechanical crimping tool with PowerSense technology is launched on the market. The distribution company Klauke Polska is opened close to Warsaw. Our distribution company Klauke France has been active in the market for 25 years. Gustav Klauke GmbH receives the Bergische Training Award 2014 in the category Of Companies with more than 250 employees.
2013
Klauke Slovakia and Klauke UK introduce SAP. All Klauke companies in Europe are now migrated to SAP. Klauke Iberia, the distribution company for Spain and Portugal is opened in Madrid. Klauke opens a new production facility in China close to the city of Nantong. Greenlee celebrates its 150th anniversary. Klauke Germany and Klauke Slovakia receive an award for occupational safety to commend the low accident rate in recent years.
2019 – 2017
In 2019, Klauke celebrates 140th anniversary
2019
Klauke Remscheid celebrates its 140th anniversary. Unique in the world: In April, the battery-powered hydraulic cutting and crimping tools will be Klauke Orange are presented. These offer protection against electric shock up to 1,000 V.
2018
In May 2018, Klauke India celebrates its 10th anniversary and also moves to new premises. Mid-2018 Klauke Austria also celebrates its 25th anniversary. In July 2018, Gustav Klauke GmbH is acquired by Emerson and is now part of the “Professional Tools” division.
2017
On 4 May 2017, the ceremonial opening of our new production site in Gelnica/Slovakia takes place, so that production is now extended to another location in Slovakia with about 2,000 m². Klauke also opens another hall in the “Auf dem Knapp” industrial estate to expand the logistics area. Klauke Spain moves to its new facilities in Madrid.
2020 – 2023
2023 – Two new Managing Directors of Gustav Klauke GmbH
2023
Marc Vandevelde and Jean-Claude Wetzels become joint Managing Directors of Gustav Klauke GmbH.
2020
Timothy Reeves becomes Managing Director and a one piece flow assembly line is introduced for production at Remscheid. The aim is to achieve faster production, better delivery performance and even higher levels of quality.
Today, Klauke products are used by professionals around the world. Their extensive range includes a wide variety of crimping tools for different applications, such as cable lugs, connectors, and terminals. They also offer cutting tools for cables, pipes, and other materials.
CRIMPING CABLES, LUGS & TOOLS
Thorne & Derrick distribute Cable Lugs & Cable Connectors to terminate, splice and joint LV MV HV cables – this includes copper, aluminium and bi-metallic connectors and a complete range of crimping tools for specific use on all Low, Medium & High Voltage cable types.
➡ Associated Brands & Products | Klauke | Cembre | Pfisterer Sicon | Cable Crimping & Cable Cutting Tools
Use of NOFIRNO Duct Sealing Systems in Pump Manufacturing
January 2nd, 2024
NOFIRNO Duct Sealing
Pump Manufacturing Sealing
The CSD NOFIRNO is a Single & Multi Pipe Penetration Sealing System – one of the most adaptive systems for sealing straight and angled pipe penetrations and can even accommodate multiple pipe runs, significantly saving in space and weight.
To help adoptable pumping stations meet the required UK water authority standard, CSD’s NOFIRNO Duct Sealing system ensures that any duct sealing complies with the specifications.
It is included with many design specifications used by pump manufacturers, pump suppliers and installation contractors of adoptable pumping stations.
NOFIRNO Systems
The NOFIRNO Duct Seal system comprises of two components; 60mm rubber NOFIRNO multi-sleeves which provide cable support, ensure cable separation, and provide a backing for the second component, which is a 20mm layer of NOFIRNO Sealant.
Ensuring the NOFIRNO Sealant adheres correctly, the areas where the sealant is to be applied, should be clean and dry before application i.e., the cables and any frames/structures.
The NOFIRNO multi-sleeves are installed which provides cable separation and a firm backing for the NOFIRNO Sealant layer.
Benefits of using Nofirno dUCT SEALS
- Simple and easy to install
- Supported by inspection, design and installation services
- Stops rodents from damaging cables or equipment
Further Reading
- 66kV 72.5kV | Power Cables Accessories for Offshore Windfarms
- Supplying Cable Termination, Jointing, Pull-in & Electrical Equipment up to 66kV
- CSD Marine Grade Cable Transit Sealing System Supplied Onboard Kintra II Passenger Vessel
More Case Studies
- Sealing Cables | Windfarm & Substation Cable Sealing using CSD Systems
- Sealing Cables | 400kV Substation Cable Sealing using CSD Systems
- Sealing Cables | Decarbonisation & Storage Depot Case Study
THORNE & DERRICK are national distributors of LV, MV & HV Cable Installation, Jointing, Duct Sealing, Substation & Electrical Equipment – we service UK and global businesses involved in cable installations, cable jointing, copper earth tapes and substation earthing at LV, 11kV, 33kV and EHV.
Since 1985, T&D have established an international reputation based on SERVICE | INTEGRITY | TRUST.
Contact us for 3M Electrical, ABB, Alroc, AN Wallis, CATU Electrical, Cembre, Centriforce, CMP, CSD, Elastimold, Ellis Patents, Emtelle, Euromold, Filoform , Furse, Lucy Electric & Zodion, Nexans, Pfisterer, Polypipe, Prysmian, Roxtec, Sicame, WT Henley.
Stockists & Suppliers | UK & International Projects
