22 February 2017
Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Available from RS Components is a wide range of power tools that use lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, from leading manufacturers such as Bosch, DeWALT and Makita. These power tools are ideal as a replacement for those that currently run on nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries, which have been widely used in power tools for many years. Previously, the advantage of this type of cell was that NiCd batteries would maintain a steady output voltage until they are almost completely depleted, whereas the voltage offered by alkaline or lead-acid types, for example, will drop along with depletion of the battery.
However, the cadmium used in this type of cell is both carcinogenic and highly toxic, which has an impact on the environment when disposed in landfill. The EU Batteries Directive 2013/56/EU previously included an exemption for NiCd batteries used in power tools. However, this exemption has now been removed, as of 31 December, 2016, which means that new NiCd power tool batteries can no longer be made available to the market.
Li-ion battery-powered tools are not interchangeable with NiCd types, which will mean an upgrade in power tool will be required. Key advantages of Li-ion batteries include no memory effect; virtually no self-discharge; the ability to be recharged at anytime, regardless of the current state of charge; and smaller size and lower weight compared to their equivalent NiCd versions. These advantages mean that manufacturers can create higher voltage and higher capacity batteries and therefore a longer run-time without increasing the weight or size for the equivalent NiCd version.
Weller limited Black Edition soldering station Testerion
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Weller’s WE1010 Black Edition Soldering Station is a premium limited-edition soldering station.
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Enclosures, Racks, Cabinets & Panel Products
The COMMUNITEC enclosure range from OKW is ideal for housing large-format electronic assemblies in an elegant, modern, design-oriented package. A key feature is the recessed handle concealed behind the operating panel, which allows the units to be carried comfortably and provides greater flexibility in use.
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Würth Elektronik expands its EMC product portfolio with nanocrystalline WE-FNCS sheets.
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With smarter localisation, clearer procurement rules and a more deliberate industrial strategy, public spending could again become a powerful engine for rebuilding factories, expanding supply chains and restoring confidence in South Africa as a place that makes things.
Read more...The effect of seasonal changes on ESD performance in South Africa Actum
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Electrostatic discharge performance is influenced by several environmental factors, with relative humidity being one of the most important. This is particularly relevant in South Africa, where seasonal changes can result in significant differences in humidity levels.
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Conformal coating is widely used to protect electronics from moisture or other environmental hazards. It is critical to know if coatings are properly applied; covering what is meant to be covered and not covering what should be exposed.
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Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
JAPAN UNIX has published a new event report and highlight video from their UNIX SOLDERING DAY 2026 in Hungary. This event reflects on their commitment to supporting manufacturers not only through soldering automation systems, but also through technical education, live demonstrations, hands-on training, and practical engineering know-how.
Read more...Clearing the Static: Electrostatic Discharge Actum
Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
A cordless ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) wrist strap does not work by grounding the person in the same way as a traditional wired wrist strap. Instead, it works by reducing or balancing the static charge on your body so that you are less likely to discharge electricity into sensitive electronic components.
Read more...Engineering trust in South Africa’s SMT sector ZETECH ONE
Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
From a small Johannesburg start-up to a trusted SMT technology partner, Zetech One has spent four decades helping South African electronics manufacturers improve production quality, efficiency and reliability.
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