With KwaZulu-Natal pursuing major investments in renewable energy and grid infrastructure, such as eThekwini’s green energy programme, systems provider Rittal South Africa is seeing a shift towards flexible, scalable and robust enclosure solutions that can be installed relatively quickly.

“Physical security is also a key consideration with Rittal’s enclosures and Internet of Things-ready panel monitoring solutions recognised for their advanced access control and reliable monitoring capabilities,” Rittal South Africa MD Adrian Buddingh states.

The demand for power distribution solutions, Buddingh notes, is also focused on smart, time-saving and flexible solutions that enhance safety. He points to Rittal’s Ri4Power system and the RiLineX, which have both been seeing high demand.

The Ri4Power, for example, is a modular, manufacturer-independent system for building low-voltage switchgear up to 6 300 A. Additionally, it integrates power distribution and control technology in a single enclosure and features modular assembly, verified arc fault safety and broad compatibility with circuit-breaker bands.

Additionally, with significant investments into logistics, infrastructure and industrial developments in the province – including the N2 and N3 corridor upgrades and the expansion of the Dube TradePort – solutions that offer quality, performance, reliability and adaptability, “backed by top notch service”, are seeing increased demand, says Buddingh.

He suggests that Rittal is well positioned to meet this demand, as it is among the only manufacturers and local suppliers that produces low-voltage switchgear approved by the International Electrical Commission (IEC), specifically providing IEC 61439-approved products.

“Our portfolio of solutions includes low-voltage switchgear and busbar solutions – such as the Ri4Power and RiLineX – that meet demand for type-tested power management solutions,” he states.

Additionally, Rittal’s enclosure solutions are “ideal” for the infrastructure developments currently under way, including micro data centre solutions.

The RiLineX, Buddingh notes, is a modular busbar system that “redefines how power is distributed inside electrical enclosers”, as, rather than relying on traditional wiring and cable runs, RiLineX employs copper busbars that function as a central “power highway”.

“Adapters and components, such as circuit breakers, contractors and inverters, can be mounted directly on the busbars quickly and without the need for tools, cutting assembly times by up to 50%, while negating the need for trimming and cutting of covers, thus reducing plastic waste,” Buddingh explains.

Additionally, with its modular design, the RiLineX makes it easy to build customised layouts to fit a variety of applications, even in space-restricted panels or vertical installations. Further, it supports both alternating current (AC) and direct current  (DC) systems, up to 1 000 V AC or 1 500 DC, with short-circuit ratings up to 65 kA, as well as offering contact hazard protection up to IP 2XB – which is upgradeable to IP4X.

Notably, the RiLineX’s open platform design means the system is manufacturer-neutral and licence-free, affording businesses the freedom to choose and integrate components from multiple suppliers, enabling faster design and installation as well as easier upgrades.

Tech Rollout

The rapid rollout of micro data centres and edge systems is a significant trend, which is driving demand for enclosure solutions that are installed quickly, scale easily and offer the best possible safety and security, while also providing practical advantages, such as smart cable management or component installation, says Buddingh.

“To support customers, we have launched the FR IT flat pack enclosure and have expanded our stock holding of compact wall boxes and junction boxes, among others. We have also invested in our professional on-site maintenance and repair services.”

Similarly, power distribution solutions are increasingly focused on simplified installation, integration of functions, adaptability and safety.

Aligned with these trends and increased demand, Rittal, which has its headquarters in Edenvale, has established sales and service offices in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, as well as appointing an information technologies sales representative in Kenya to service the East African market.

“The expansion has included investment in our service capabilities – enabling us to support customers not only with sizing and selection, modification, assembly and installation, but also comprehensive on-site installation, repair and maintenance services,” Buddingh explains.

These solutions have helped to increase system efficiency by up to 30%, helping customers to reduce energy consumption and prevent equipment faults that hamper operations.

KwaZulu-Natal’s rapid economic growth, especially the development of its manufacturing, logistics and industrial sectors, was a significant factor in Rittal’s decision to locate a sales and service office in the province, to facilitate the rollout of its services to customers across the region, Buddingh concludes.