Terminal velocity

Behind the scenes at the airport the electrical and photovoltaic systems that power the new pier and the connector buildings were supplied and installed by Dickson-Gray Electrical (DGE).

Company director and contracts manager Grant Megson says DGE was contracted to supply the high-voltage system, stand-by generators, aircraft ground power, air-bridge power and general lighting and power to the new pier. The company also supplied and installed the photovoltaic system, which incorporates 160m² of solar roof panels.

"The electricity savings provided by the photovoltaic system can be viewed on an LCD screen in the public gallery," says Megson. "This shows how many kilowatts of power are currently being generated, and calculates carbon credits."

DGE's standby generators are operated by an Asco switch an auto extended parallel switching system. The Asco switch automatically powers up the generators in event of a mains power failure. Megson says it can also be used to run the generator in parallel with the mains supply if Auckland Airport wishes to shed some of the power load at times of peak demand and low supply.

The two ground power supplies at each of the new gates incorporate an HV transformer and a ground power main switch, all built to withstand the outdoor environment.

"Altogether DGE installed 30km of cabling, 10km of cable support, 1800 light fittings and numerous other pieces of equipment over the 18-month installation period," says Megson.

The company is now working on several other major projects in the Auckland region.

For more details, contact Dickson-Gray Electrical, PO Box 9239, Auckland 1149, phone (09) 256 8313, mob 0275 783 123, fax (09) 256 8561. Or email: grant.m@dickson-gray.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas