Tag: Elektrotechnik

  • New industrial building relies on modern energy and electrical engineering

    New industrial building relies on modern energy and electrical engineering

    Schlieremer Maneth Stiefel AG, with its branch in Pratteln, has taken on the project planning and construction of the electrical systems for a new high-bay warehouse at the Feldschlösschen brewery, according to a press release. The 30-metre-high building is to be constructed in the immediate vicinity of the motorway in Rheinfelden. Feldschlösschen AG, part of the Carlsberg Group, wants to use the new building to increase internal consolidation and create new storage space, the company reports.

    In addition to the lighting, low-voltage and low-current systems, Maneth Stiefel will also install the network infrastructure, including transformer stations and main distribution systems in the medium-voltage range, emergency and safety systems, and a photovoltaic system.

    Both companies emphasise that the new building represents a milestone in the development of the Rheinfelden site. Feldschlösschen is the largest employer in the town. The construction measures were planned in close consultation with the local population and will also be implemented with monument protection in mind. Feldschlösschen will celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2026.

  • Mushroom batteries the energy source

    Mushroom batteries the energy source

    The components of the mushroom battery are manufactured using 3D printing. The mushroom cells are incorporated directly into the printing ink. This special ink, developed on a cellulose basis, supports the growth of the mushrooms and is also electrically conductive. The manufacturing process places high demands. The ink must be biodegradable, easy to extrude and rich in nutrients without damaging the sensitive fungal cells.

    Possible applications and potential
    Although the mushroom battery only generates small amounts of electricity, it is sufficient to operate sensors in agriculture or environmental research for several days. The battery can be activated at the place of use by simply adding water and nutrients. After use, the materials decompose on their own due to the fungi.

    Challenges and future plans
    Working with living materials requires interdisciplinary knowledge from microbiology, materials science and electrical engineering. The researchers are planning to improve the performance and service life of the mushroom battery and to research other types of mushrooms as electricity suppliers. The aim is to develop an even more efficient, sustainable energy source.

    Green biotechnology with wood and mushrooms
    Wood, a renewable raw material, is also used by Empa for innovative applications. In addition to the mushroom battery, environmental sensors and green electronics made from cellulose fibres are being developed here. These projects promote the sustainable use of wood and fungi in materials science and contribute to the energy transition.

  • Takeover secures jobs and orders in Freiburg

    Takeover secures jobs and orders in Freiburg

    Burkhalter is stepping into the breach at Etablissements Techniques Fragnière SA, based in Bulle, which has run into financial difficulties. The Zurich-based building technology specialist will take over the business and employees at ETF’s sites in Bulle and Givisiez, Burkhalter announced in a press release. Specifically, 117 employees, including 32 apprentices, will be taken on under the same conditions that apply to them at ETF. Burkhalter intends to use them to fulfil the majority of ETF’s orders at the two Fribourg sites.

    Burkhalter has founded the two companies Bul Elec SA and Fri Elec SA for the takeover. They are intended to strengthen the building technology company’s presence in the canton of Fribourg. In addition, Burkhalter is “now in a position to offer its customers in the canton of Fribourg the entire portfolio of electrical engineering services”, according to the press release. Laurent Murith and Frédéric Bourguet will take over the management of the new companies. Both were previously branch managers at the respective ETF locations.

  • Successful return of ineltec with a focus on innovation

    Successful return of ineltec with a focus on innovation

    A new start that convinces
    The return of ineltec was a complete success. The trade fair, which took place on 11 and 12 September 2024 at Messe Zürich, attracted a large number of visitors and impressed both exhibitors and trade visitors. With a clear focus on efficiency and innovation, the trade fair presented its innovations on compact, focussed stands that encouraged direct interaction between visitors and suppliers.

    Enormous visitor interest and exciting innovations
    ineltec attracted an impressive number of visitors: the halls were already packed on the opening day. Professionals from all over Switzerland crowded around the exhibitors’ latest developments and products. Exhibition Director Noëlle Marti was overwhelmed by the response: “The enormous interest and positive feedback from our visitors exceeded all expectations. It’s a wonderful feeling when our intensive preparatory work pays off in this way.”

    Breadth and depth of the range – the right thing for everyone
    With a clearly structured trade fair layout and a wide range of exhibitors, ineltec offered something for everyone: whether it was about smart building, the circular economy, electromobility or innovative technologies – trade visitors were able to search specifically for the topics relevant to them and find what they were looking for. The clear layout, which enabled visitors to move efficiently through the various exhibition stands, was particularly appreciated.

    Expert knowledge in the Speakers Corner
    A highlight of the trade fair was the extensive lecture programme in the Speakers Corner. Here, industry experts presented their latest developments and tools, including on the topics of artificial intelligence, electrical systems and electromobility. The moderated innovation pitches, organised by Electrosuisse, tested the presented technologies for their practical suitability – a valuable source of knowledge for all participants.

    Focus on young talent
    ineltec paid particular attention to promoting young talent. A total of 16 training classes visited the trade fair and were given guided tours to gain an insight into the latest developments in the industry and potential career opportunities. The promotion of young talent was supported by EIT.swiss, which presented the winners of a competition with high-quality measuring devices – a motivational boost for the next generation of the electrical industry.

    Networking and interaction at the highest level
    In addition to the professional highlights, the trade fair also offered space for entertainment and interaction. At the second marketplace, visitors were able to take part in virtual reality simulations, skill tests and interactive demonstrations – an ideal opportunity to exchange ideas with colleagues and experience new technologies up close.

    A strong network and supportive partners
    EIT.swiss, the professional organisation for the electrical industry, was a strong partner of the trade fair and made a significant contribution to its success. Director Simon Hämmerli was delighted: “ineltec has once again proven that it is the perfect place to promote dialogue and networking within the industry. The large number of visitors shows that interest in technological development is unbroken.”

    Ineltec 2024 was a complete success and impressively demonstrated that the industry is lively and forward-looking. With the successful restart, the electrical industry is already looking forward to the next edition, which will take place on 9 and 10 September 2026.

  • Innovation and networking in the Swiss electrical industry

    Innovation and networking in the Swiss electrical industry

    The newly launched ineltec 2024 offers a platform for over 140 exhibitors to showcase their latest products and services in the fields of electrical engineering, building automation, e-mobility and more across 11,000 square metres of exhibition space. The trade fair not only attracts a large number of experts, but also decision-makers from the entire industry who are looking for innovative solutions and sustainable technologies. The topics of e-mobility and smart building technologies are a particular focus, as these areas are expected to undergo decisive developments in the coming years.

    Interactive platforms for professional dialogue
    In addition to the traditional trade fair experience, ineltec reloaded also offers digital access via its content platform ineltec.ch, where exhibitors and visitors can network and gather information in advance. In addition, the two marketplaces with bistros and an interaction zone ensure a lively exchange and offer space for daily events such as innovation pitches and moderated discussions. These formats are designed to provide participants with new ideas and practical knowledge for their day-to-day work.

    Focus on young talent and networking
    Another focus of ineltec 2024 is the promotion of young talent and networking among industry participants. The events, such as the start-up pitches and after-work events, not only provide a platform for new ideas, but also offer valuable networking opportunities. The aim is to build a bridge between established companies and innovative start-ups and at the same time actively involve young talent in the industry.

    Future-oriented discussions and further training
    ineltec 2024 also places a strong focus on further training and discussions on key industry topics such as the integration of AI in building automation and the impact of ESG directives on electrical engineering. By participating in these round tables and presentations, trade visitors will gain valuable insights into the future development of the electrical industry and can thus prepare themselves for the challenges ahead.

    Ineltec 2024 promises to be an unmissable event for all electrical industry professionals, providing not only a showcase for technological innovations, but also a central platform for professional exchange and training.