Zumtobel teams up with ABB to create DC ecosystems

Zumtobel has partnered with technology giant ABB to create electrical and lighting systems which run on direct current only.

The agreement follows the introduction by Zumtobel in June of a direct current version of its best-selling Tecton continuous row lighting range.

The two brands intend to develop full-scale DC ecosystems for industrial applications which can easily integrate renewable sources such as solar panels.

Using direct current avoids all the losses associated with converting power to AC and then back again to DC.

The proprietary control platforms of each brand will also be integrated to ensure seamless operation.

Specifically, Zumtobel’s LITECOM lighting system and the Tecton luminaire will be optimised to work with ABB’s DC protection devices as well as its ABB i-bus® KNX and ABB i-bus® DALI systems.

The two companies say the partnership will help to accelerate the adoption of sensor-based lighting installations that enable businesses to optimise energy efficiency, increase occupant comfort and maximise the effectiveness of heating, ventilation and air conditioning control.

Both companies aim to create innovations based on the latest developments in using DC technology in full-scale industrial applications. The benefits include the efficient integration of renewable energy, lower resource consumption, reduced feed-in power, stable grids and an open system for users.

Both companies are working together on standards and guidance as members of the Open Direct Current Alliance, a working party of ZVEI, the German electrical industry body.

‘Technologies in commercial buildings need to talk to each other and by combining our strengths with partners like Zumtobel, we can offer customers more comprehensive and innovative solutions for smart buildings and industrial applications,’ said Lucy Han of ABB.

In June, Zumtobel unveiled the Tecton DC which it says can add an extra 4 per cent energy saving.

However, as fluctuations in the mains voltage with renewable sources can never be eliminated, the Tecton DC can be fitted with a battery buffer and an emergency light function to ensure continuous illumination whatever happens.

Like the alternating current version, Tecton DC also offers the option of power tapping along the entire length of the continuous row.

Existing Tecton installations can be converted to DC by replacing the ballast with a DC-compatible driver but leaving the track in place.

Tecton is popular in factories as it can be continued to over 50 metres all powered from one connection.

The Tecton DC also delivers real-time data on lighting performance and power consumption based on the DALI-2 and D4i standards.t.

As well as industrial plants, retailers are experimenting with DC grids. Brands such as Carrefour and MaxMara have trialled stores with DC infrastructure. Louis Vuitton is using DC microgids for its lighting at 40 of its newer stores in both Europe and China.

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