Blog
CEMBRE CBLIGHT | LED Portable Lighting for Electrical Contractors
October 25th, 2022

CEMBRE CBLIGHT
Cembre is a leading European manufacturer of electrical connectors, crimping tools, cutting tools and a variety of accessories for LV (Low Voltage), MV (Medium Voltage) and HV (High Voltage) power systems. Designed for switchgear and control panels, Cembre tools are ideal for installing low and medium voltage connectors.
The CEMBRE CBLIGHT (CBL) series offers a complete range of LED lights: highly practical and functional torches, lamps and portable spotlights.
Compact and easy to use, the CBLIGHT series lights, manufactured by Cembre, are a practical solution in any situation where quick and efficient wireless lighting is required.
The magnetic supports make CBLights useful for all outdoor activities, on construction sites and in emergency situations, ideal in the car, at home or in the office.
The built-in rechargeable battery guarantees durability and low consumption thanks to lithium polymer cells (Li-POLY), more advantageous than traditional lithium-ion (Li-ION) cells.
The high IP protection combined with the solid shockproof and non-slip rubber construction make the CBL series extremely robust and safe.
Min operating temperature range – 14 °F
Max operating temperature range – 104 °F

CEMBRE CBLIGHT (CBL) Range
WHY CHOOSE CEMBRE CBLIGHT?
The range consists of Compact, Portable, Floor & Table and Table Top devices.
- EFFICIENT, COB (chip on board) LED technology
- BRIGHT, 150-3000 lumens
- LOW CONSUMPTION, from 2.5-10h battery life and high energy rating
- ERGONOMIC and lightweight, bi-component plastic handles
- PRACTICAL, double light point, with adjustable magnetic support and built in suspension hook
- ALWAYS READY with wireless charging
- FUNCTIONAL as a power bank

CBL01 POCKET TORCH
|
The handy Cembre CBL01 torch is the size of a pen and is equipped with a double light point to illuminate small work areas. The side light allows you to illuminate the area while leaving it in your pocket, while the front light allows you to inspect less accessible areas. The clip is equipped with a magnet allowing it to be attached to any metal surface, freeing the operator’s hands. Supplied with USB charging cable. |
| Ideal for any indoor or outdoor activity requiring localised lighting and freedom of action, the Cembre CBL02-W head torch is equipped with a touch sensor allowing operation even whilst wearing gloves. The light intensity can be modulated via the dimmer function helping to preserve battery life. The CBL02-W is a versatile head torch adjustable by means of an elastic band to fit work helmets of various sizes. Supplied with USB charging cable and charger. |
CBL02-W HEAD TORCH
|
CBL03-W MULTIPURPOSE LAMP
|
The Cembre CBL03-W multi-purpose lamp is a mini-lamp that can be used on a table or hung on metal surfaces thanks to the handy magnet or the suspension hook. It is equipped with an ergonomic non-slip handle to make it easy to use. The 2 light points with dimmer function allow you to modulate the intensity and battery life as needed. The compact design makes it ideal as a pocket lamp for storage in a jacket pocket or work trousers. Supplied with USB charging cable and charger. |
| The most versatile of the family is the Cembre CBL04-W, which has a double light point, 2 dimmable light intensities, a rotatable and foldable stem and allows ideal lighting in all conditions. The double magnetic support and the suspension hook allow the lamp to be secured anywhere with ease. Designed to be easy to carry in a bag or trouser pocket whilst also offering excellent battery life and low weight portability. The compact design ensures the CBL04-W is the ideal solution for inspecting difficult to reach areas. Supplied with USB charging cable and charger. |
CBL04-W SPACE-SAVING FLOOR LAMP
|
CBL05-W PORTABLE LAMP
|
An ergonomic bi-component plastic handle makes the Cembre CBL05-W the most comfortable and robust lamp in the series, particularly suited to lengthy inspection work. Featuring two light points, dimmer function and a long battery life. Equipped with magnetic table support with retractable suspension hook. Supplied with USB charging cable and charger. |
| The Cembre CBL06 portable spotlight meets the requirement of those who need to illuminate small-medium work environments. The magnetic table mount allows the spotlight to be secured to metal surfaces. The power bank function allows small devices to be charged via the USB output, useful for emergency situations. Supplied with USB charging cable and charger. |
CBL06 PORTABLE SPOTLIGHT FOR SMALL-MEDIUM WORK ENVIRONMENTS
|
CBL07 PORTABLE SPOTLIGHT FOR LARGE WORK ENVIRONMENTS
|
The diffused light emitted by the Cembre CBL07 spotlight enables the illumination of large areas. Light, practical and sturdy, this spotlight is quick to install. The power bank function allows small devices to be charged via the USB output, useful for emergency situations. Supplied with charger. |
| The Cembre BCB1-W and BCB2-W charging bases make it possible to keep the lamps fully charged meaning they are always ready for use. The magnetic construction allows quick attachment to metal surfaces along with holding the lamps in place during charging. The BCB1-W single base is designed to recharge a single lamp. The BCB2-W allows 2 lamps to be charged at the same time. Supplied with USB charging cable and charger. |
BCB1-W / BCB2-W WIRELESS CHARGING BASES
|
Cembre CBLIGHT Technical Data
| Part Number | Lumen Front/ Flashlight | Duration Front/ Flashlight | Charging Method | Degree of Protection | Body Material | Lamp Material | Dimesions mm | Weight g |
| CBL01 | 150 / 70 | 2,5 / 3,5 h | USB | IP20 | ABS | PC | 160 x 15 x 20 | 38 |
| CBL02-W | 400 / 80 | 3 / 5 h | USB / Wireless | IP54 | ABS+PC | PC | 78 x 39 x 36 | 105 |
| CBL03-W | 300 / 100 | 3 / 6 h | USB / Wireless | IP65 | ABS | PC | 133 x 68 x 25 | 190 |
| CBL04-W | 600 / 100 | 2,5 / 8 h | USB / Wireless | IP54 | ABS | PC | 175 (325 max) x 44 x 38 |
246 |
| CBL05-W | 600 / 100 | 2.5 / 10 h | USB / Wireless | IP65 | PC | PC | 205 x 55 x 40 | 300 |
| CBL06 | 2000 | 3,5 / 7 h | USB | IP65 | ABS | PC | 195 x 125 x 48 | 800 |
| CBL07 | 3000 / 1500 | 3 / 6 h | Power Plug | IP65 | ABS | PC | 277 x 213 x 86 | 1400 |
| BCB1-W | – | – | USB / Wireless | IP20 | ABS | – | 105 x 106 x 18 (single) | 190 |
| BCB2-W | – | – | USB / Wireless | IP20 | ABS | – | 202 x 106 x 18 (double) | 270 |
Contact Thorne & Derrick for more information.
THORNE & DERRICK

T&D are Specialist Distributors of LV MV HV Cable Installation, Jointing, Substation & Electrical Equipment – we supply companies in the onshore and offshore wind, solar, rail, oil/gas, data centre, battery storage and utility sectors with products to enable the energisation, operation and maintenance of underground cables and overhead lines.
Products | Surge Counters | Sealing Cable Ducts | Cleats, Clamps & Hangers | LV MV HV Electrical Safety | Arc Flash Clothing & PPE | Jointing, Termination & Stripping Tools | Cable Pulling & Laying | Feeder Pillars | Cold Shrink | Heat Shrink | Joints Terminations Connectors MV HV

Cable Installation & Cable Socks For Renewable Energy Sector
October 19th, 2022
Working with Slingco we have produced engineered and customised solutions using cable grip and support innovation to major cable laying contractors for the connection of wind farm projects globally.
Cable Installation & Cable Socks
Thorne & Derrick together with Slingco offer pulling and supporting to power & subsea cables in the wind sector. Slingco have developed a comprehensive range of cable grips (commonly referred to as cable socks) specifically tailored to the needs of the renewable energy sector.
The marine pulling grips are the for installation of inter-array and export cables for offshore wind farms. There are grips to suit common cable sizes used in offshore applications and have increased break loads.
The cable socks also feature a new ‘two over / two under double weave’ on the lattice which tightens up the angle of deflection over the end of the cable.
Together we can offer an extensive range of marine and hose restraint cable grips for onshore and offshore cable installation, including the support of cables inside wind turbines and general cable management.
SLINGCO MARINE cable socks Features
- Cable range of 90mm to 355mm
- Break load tested and independently witnessed at Lloyds Register
- Manufactured to high quality standards in the UK
- Length standardised from 2.5m to 3.5m

Marine cable socks are designed, manufactured and tested to exacting standards to ensure safe and reliable operation under the most challenging condition
WHY SLINGCO FOR MARINE GRIPS?
- UK manufacturing facility produces between 2,500 to 6,000 grips per month from our new 32,000sqft, state of the art premises
- Options such as Thimble eye, Shoulders, and Anodes are now available on request (manufactured to order), as are stainless steel and aramid, both of which have better corrosion resistance for prolonged subsea lay down durations
- Range of non metallic grips made from high strength aramid fibre, with UV protective coating, ideal for fibre optic offshore applications
- An impeccable track record, with recent projects including: Kincardine, EastAnglia 1 & 2, Borssele 1 & 2, Hornsea 1 & 2, Akita, Triton Knoll, Moray East, St Nazaire, Dolwin 6, Ostwind 2, Formosa 2, Thanet, Walney, Gwynty Mor, Dogger Bank, Park Wind

Every Slingco product is designed, manufactured and tested to exacting standards to ensure safe and reliable operation under the most challenging conditions. From initial product design to technical support and customer service, we are your trusted partner.

Cable Pulling & Laying Equipment
Suppliers & Distributors
Thorne & Derrick distribute the most extensive range of Low & High Voltage Cable Installation & Electrical Distribution Equipment to the Power Transmission & Distribution industry in the onshore and offshore wind, solar, rail, oil/gas, data centre, battery storage and utility sectors – this includes the most extensive range of Cable Pulling & Cable Laying Equipment to enable the installation of low, medium and high voltage power cables into underground trench or duct.
We service UK and international clients working on underground cables, overhead lines, substations and electrical construction at LV, 11kV/33kV and up to EHV transmission and distribution voltages.
Key Products: MV-HV Cable Joints & Terminations, Cable Cleats, Duct Seals, Cable Transits, Underground Cable Protection, Copper Earth Tapes, Cable Jointing Tools, Feeder Pillars, Cable Ducting, Earthing & Lightning Protection, Electrical Safety, Cable Glands, Arc Flash Protection & Fusegear.
Distributors for: 3M Electrical, ABB, Alroc, Band-It, Cembre, Centriforce, CMP, Elastimold, Ellis Patents, Emtelle, Furse, Lucy Zodion, Nexans Euromold, Pfisterer, Polypipe, ProGARM, Prysmian, and Roxtec.
- Scope –single-source supply of extensive range of products
- Stock – a multi-million pound stock holding provides complete global supply solutions
- Staff – technical support from a trained, proactive and friendly team
- Delivery – UK stock turnaround with express logistics to all international destinations
Further Reading | Cable Drum Handling & Laying Cables | A Guide from Nexans


Slingco’s Catchblock Gets Network Rail And National Highways Approval
October 19th, 2022
Thorne & Derrick, distributors of a range of Cable Pulling & Laying equipment, are pleased to announce that Slingco’s innovative Catchblock has received formal approval from Network Rail and National Highways (formerly Highways England).
In addition, National Grid has now endorsed the use of the Slingco Catchblock system.
Catchblock
OHL catenary roller system
Catchblock from Slingco is a system for replacing and recovering overhead conductor cable and makes some pretty big claims, including reducing disruption, risks of accidents and costs during replacement of conductor cable.
Nick Dykins, Managing Director, reported: “Our single system has been fully and permanently approved by Network Rail and National Highways.”
“In addition, Network Rail has approved temporary certification for our Catchblock twin system for 12 months. For our utilities contractors this means the seamless replacement of cable with minimal disruption to infrastructure.”
Catchblock is now supplied in two versions – UK and export to meet growing national and international demand for this product.
Catchblock from Slingco is approved by Network Rail and National Highways for OHL Conductor replacement.

Lightweight, robust and easy to deploy, CatchBlock helps to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
REDUCED DISRUPTION
CatchBlock is an innovative OHL catenary roller system. Designed to deploy a twin-rope system, it allows the recovery and redeployment of broken conductors without the need to take possession of road/rail or client/third party property or infrastructure.
REDUCED ACCIDENT RISK
CatchBlock significantly reduces the need for erection and dismantling of scaffolding – cutting down the risk of accidents and harm to site workers.
REDUCED STRINGING COSTS
The reduced need for scaffolding, ease of deployment, and the ability to recover and redeploy, results in a faster, more efficient operation. With fewer hours of effort and less equipment required, Catch Block can deliver substantially reduced costs.
TRUSTED INNOVATION, OUTSTANDING SUPPORT, BESPOKE SOFTWARE
In addition to our complete engineering support service, we offer bespoke software for the CatchBlock system to replace spreadsheet calculations. Intuitive and easy to use, this software needs only limited training to enable site staff to complete regulatory checks. The CatchBlock system has been rigorously trialled and tested.
At no point has there been the need to take out possession orders for property or infrastructure, even with a failed conductor.

CatchBlock has received formal approval from Network Rail and National Highways

CABLE SOCKS & PULLING PRODUCTS LV MV HV
Complete range of LV, MV and HV cable pulling products for installation and enabling cable jointing in trench or ducts including LV, 11kV/33kV medium voltage (MV), 66kV/132kV high voltage (HV) and EHV transmission and distribution cables up to 400kV.
Thorne & Derrick distribute the most extensive range of Cable Installation & Electrical Distribution Equipment to the Power Transmission & Distribution industry in the onshore and offshore wind, solar, rail, oil/gas, data centre, battery storage and utility sectors.
We service UK and international clients working on underground cables, overhead lines, substations and electrical construction at 11kV and up to and EHV transmission and distribution voltages.
Cembre | New Generation “Bilinear” Cordless Crimping Tools Available From Thorne & Derrick
October 17th, 2022
Cembre “Bilinear” Cordless Battery Crimping Tools
CEMBRE Bilinear Cordless Crimping Tools
ND Series, Battery Crimping Tools 18.0V – 2.0 Ah

Cembre have launched a new generation of hand-held cordless battery crimping tools, characterised by a “Bilinear” mechanical design. Operator comfort and convenience are key
factors in producing repeatedly consistent high integrity crimped joints.
Thorne & Derrick supply the Cembre ‘ND Series’ of bilinear tools. They have their mechanical centre of gravity nearest to the operator’s wrist to optimise the overall ergonomics of the tool and provide a wider support for the hand.
Thus the innovative misalignment between the pump drive mechanism and the hydraulic system both reduce the torque generated on the operator’s wrist and best distribute the stresses acting on the hand.
➡ Cembre offer a complete range of battery operated cable crimping tools for use with crimps, connectors and lugs up to 400sqmm including medium/high voltage cables at 11kV/33kV.
“Bilinear” Cordless Crimping Tools Features
Smart Release System
![]()
“Smart Release Technology” is a new development by Cembre whereby an intelligent oil pressure release system stops the motor at the end of the crimping cycle. Automatic retraction of the ram only occurs when the operator releases the start button, this allows visual verification of the jaws to ensure that they have fully met prior to releasing.
Similar tools with ‘standard’ automatic return do not permit this visual verification that full compression has taken place before releasing pressure.
Electronic Pressure Sensor (EPS)
![]()
The Electronic Pressure Sensor (EPS) guarantees the precision of the crimping operation, checking the actual value of pressure and informing the operator about possible errors.
Smart Tool Technology

Data recording and intelligent control allow complete verification of operational parameters. SMARTOOL technology enables the user to to store data from up to 200,000 cycles on the integrated memory card for transfer to a computer via a USB cable.
New two-speed hydraulic system

On the new generation of tools, a dual speed hydraulic system has been implemented with the double concentric pumping system and interlocked spring, the original patented solution by Cembre.
Faster compression and greater crimping force result from the new two-speed hydraulic system: a high approach speed which automatically switches to a low crimping speed, ensuring optimal use of the available energy.
New Multifunction OLED Display With Touch Button
The OLED display provides essential real time operating data, including:
- crimping force generated, thus verifying compliance with best practice
- battery charge status
- general operating information
- the number of work cycles completed and remaining before recommended maintenance.
Equipped with Li-Ion 18 V-2Ah rechargeable high capacity batteries. Fitted with a maximum pressure sensor for enhanced precision and repeatability of the maximum pressure cycle, and a pressure relief valve providing additional safety for the operator. Weight and balance have been reconfigured to yield improvements in handling and convenience.
The more rigid structure of the bi-component plastic body provides greater mechanical protection while its rubber inserts boost operator safety and comfort. Quieter operation, illumination of the working area via LED lights and a minimum of vibration enhance the tool’s practicality.
“Bilinear” Cordless Crimping Tools
Operating Features of the Tools
- Bilinear mechanical design
- Smart Release system to automatically retract the ram at the end of the crimping cycle
- OLED multifunctional display with touch button
- Electronic Pressure Sensor (EPS)
- SMARTOOL technology for viewing and downloading operational data
- 180° rotating head
- Start button protected against accidental operation
- Manual pressure release button
- Illumination of working area via 4 x LED lights
- Bi-component plastic body
- Ergonomic design for operator comfort
- Li-Ion 18.0 V-2Ah rechargeable high capacity battery
- Battery connection system with release button

18V Handheld Cordless Hydraulic Tool With Bilinear Structure I Cembre B-FL750ND

LV Lugs & Connectors – complete range of copper crimp connectors suitable for use with joints and terminations for low voltage cables | Cable Lugs | Cable Splice Connectors | Aluminium Lugs | Aluminium Splices | Bi-Metallic Cable Lugs
Thorne & Derrick
Key Product Categories: Duct Seals | Cable Cleats | Cable Glands | Electrical Safety | Arc Flash Protection | Cable Jointing Tools | Cable Pulling | Earthing | Feeder Pillars | Cable Joints LV | Joints & Terminations MV HV | Cold Shrink
Are All Types Of Cable Terminations The Same?
October 16th, 2022
Cable Terminations
3M Cold Shrink
Guest Article by 3M Electrical
From lost time to repairs, cable failure can result in costly power outages. Often, these failures are the result of electrical stress.
Improper cable termination stress control can result in premature electrical aging and can lead to failures. It can also present risk to the overall safety and reliability of a utility distribution system, windfarm, or heavy industrial facility.
The question is are all cold shrink terminations equal? Not necessarily. Test results indicate this is not the case, taking stress control into consideration. Learn more about Geometric and High-K stress relief, the differences between them, and how test results show better performance with 3M’s method of using High-K stress relief.

Managing electrical stress comes down to design.
I’ve noticed when meeting with customers that there is a consensus that all types of cable terminations are equal. That’s simply not the case. Just because cable termination accessories may look similar, it doesn’t mean they perform the same.
To help dispel this myth, we ran our own study comparing our own 3M™ Cold Shrink Termination technology, which leverages capacitive stress control versus geometric stress cones. Here’s what we found.
Capacitive stress control vs. geometric stress cone: what’s the difference?
A test was conducted in a controlled laboratory environment to determine which method is most effective at controlling electrical stress. As part of our study, we looked at the performance difference between two common types of cable terminations:
1. Geometric Stress Cone: This is an electrical stress control method aimed at reducing stress at the shield discontinuity. It works by extending the shield and gradually increasing the thickness of insulation under it.
2. Capacitive Stress Control: This is a high dielectric constant (Hi-K) stress control method that controls the stress at the end of the insulation shield. It lowers the electrical stress at the point of shield discontinuity by diverting the electrical stress along the cable insulation interface.
The comparison: 3M™ Cold Shrink Products that use Hi-K capacitive stress control versus competitive cold shrink products that use geometric stress control.
For the interfaces’ stress control method, we chose our own 3M™ Cold Shrink QT-III Termination. It’s designed to spread the electrical stress lines, which helps to reduce the surface stress, resulting in improved termination performance and overall cable life expectancy.*
After putting both methods through several tests in the 3M lab, the results yielded three key benefits.
Performance Testing of Cable Terminations
| Product | Stress Control Technology |
Partial Discharge |
1 Minute AC Withstand |
15 Minute DC Withstand |
BIL (10+/- Surges) |
HOT BIL (10+/- Surges) |
Partial Discharge |
5 Hour AC Withstand |
5 Minute AC Withstand |
BIL (10+/- Surges) |
Partial Discharge |
| Competitive Sample 2, 3, 4 |
Geometric | X | X | Cannot Test further. Samples failed. | |||||||
| Competitive Sample 5 |
Geometric | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | X | Cannot Test further. Sample failed. | ||
| Competitive Sample 6 |
Geometric | X | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | X | X | Cannot Test further. Sample failed. | ||
(4 Samples) |
Hi-K | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Performance results
capacitive stress control vs. geometric stress cone study.
Our test results showed that the design behind cable termination accessories can have an impact on electrical stress management and can help prevent premature electrical aging, failures, and power outages.
There are three crucial benefits of choosing 3M™ Cold Shrink QT-III Termination:
- Reliability: The Hi-K stress control helps to prevent leakage and electrical discharge for higher cable reliability.*
- Uniformity: The design allows for a uniform distribution of the electric field, helping lower surface stress and improve track resistance (i.e. friction).*
- Safety: 3M™ Cold Shrink QT-III Termination is easy to install and requires no additional jointing tools, it helps improve overall safety by helping lower the risk of cable preparation mistakes associated with longer insulation interfaces.*
Overall, test results showed that 3M™ Cold Shrink Termination technology has a excellent behaviour compared to the competitive stress cone technology.*
Further Reading
- Cable Terminations | Cold Shrink Terminations MV HV Cables
- 3M Cold Shrink Terminations Connecting Nexans 12kV (MV) Cable Onto Busbar
- 66kV Terminations | NEW Stock Introduction for 3M Cold Shrink Cable Terminations
- 3M Terminations | Surface Tracking on Medium Voltage Cable Terminations by 3M
Thorne & Derrick
T&D are Specialist Distributors to UK Distribution Network Operators (DNO’s), NERS Registered Service Providers, ICP’s and HV Jointing Contractors of an extensive range of LV, MV & HV Jointing, Earthing, Substation & Electrical Equipment – this includes 11kV/33kV/66kV joints, terminations and connectors for both DNO and private network applications.
Contact our UK Power Team for competitive quotations, fast delivery from stock and technical support or training on all LV-HV products.
Key Product Categories: Duct Seals | Cable Cleats | Cable Glands | Electrical Safety | Arc Flash Protection | Cable Jointing Tools | Cable Pulling | Earthing | Feeder Pillars | Cable Joints LV | Joints & Terminations MV HV


















(4 Samples)