Plastica Pools continues to expand in-house UK manufacturing
Manufacturing during such unprecedented times has been a challenge over the last year, but Plastica has risen to the challenge. Some of our raw materials are imported and have been affected by global supply chains. Higher costs on imports have been exacerbated by the global pandemic and BREXIT. Lead times continue to be fluid to accommodate this disruption and are monitored weekly by the Production team to keep customers in the loop. This is a universal issue for many UK businesses which over time will settle down. It may have slowed down production but hasn’t stopped Plastica’s manufacturing process and growth. All their products are packaged in their dedicated facilities in and close to their main premises. ‘At Plastica they have up to 90 people who offer a very comprehensive service to the swimming pool industry’ Expanding Water Treatment department Last year the company invested in a new unit to expand its growing Water Treatment department. The company have managed to keep manufacturing, while adhering to social distancing rules throughout lockdown as orders escalated. A decision was made to expand into a nearby 5,000 square foot unit which has enabled more storage space and room for an automated filling and capping machine. This has been successfully run by a team of experienced Water Treatment staff and the extra space has increased Plastica’s manufacturing capacity. Plastica acquired the right to be the sole distributor of HY PRO-70® in the UK in 2016 and can supply directly to yourselves. Available in 25kg stackable plastic drums, they sell commercial quantities of pool water sanitiser, pH Correctors or Test Tablets, and will meet all your requirements with confidence. Refresh your Commercial pools with an Extreme liner When it comes to lining your pools Plastica have many years of experience surveying and manufacturing domestic and commercial swimming pool liners for the trade. They use a state-of-the-art plotter cutter to accurately cut out and create each bespoke order, from their range of plain or patterned materials. All liner material is available in 0.50mm or 0.75mm, impregnated with algaecide and antioxidants and patterned materials are protected with a lacquer coating to extend the life and colour of the product. Co-ordinating tile bands are triple coated with lacquer to help prevent staining at the waterline, and a variety of beading colours is available to compliment your customer’s liner. Extreme pool lining solutions all year round Plastica’s ExtremeTM Pool Lining system has been used for on-site lining for over 3000 pools in the UK and abroad. Pat Devaney, the ExtremeTM Manager, said “It’s the ideal solution for renovating leaking commercial and residential pools, as well as new builds. The benefit of this system is that, with no curing or drying time to wait for, the average domestic pool would be re-filling after 3 days. Installation can be undertaken any time of year, regardless of the weather”, Pat added “The liner will not crack, is unaffected by frost and ice, is easy to maintain and scratch resistant.” Plastica’s ExtremeTM liners are guaranteed for pools for 10 years up to 32°C, as well as 5 years for hydrotherapy use up to 35°C. There is a wide choice of patterns and colours available including a range of 3D, giving the effect of slate, white marble or sandstone and new for 2021 a 3D granite. Plastica also offer an ExtremeTM liner that gives the effect of ceramic tiles, without the need for re-grouting and are a lot quicker to install! Energy Saving Commercial Covers from Plastica The need to reduce carbon emissions has become greater than ever. Most commercial establishments are looking for new ways to reduce their carbon footprint and minimise impact on climate change. ‘Over 90% of a pool’s heat is lost through its water surface’ Reduce your Swimming Pool Energy Consumption It is now widely accepted that installing a heat retention cover is the single most effective means of reducing swimming pool energy consumption. Fit the right cover on your pool and you will see a reduction in energy bills of up to £20,500 per annum (figures based on a 2011 study of a 25m x 12m pool at 2019 prices). Depending on the type of reel system you opt for, a payback period as short as 12 months can be expected. Plastica’s Managing Director said “We have manufactured and installed thousands of commercial cover and reel systems from Olympic sized competition pools to freeform fun pools over the last 40 plus years. Our customers benefit from our products having unique specification advantages as standard. For example, on our commercial pool covers we provide hemmed edges, double welded seams down the length of pool covers (not the width), reinforced leading edges and stainless-steel reels. All resulting in less stress on the covers to prevent fraying, delamination and tearing, as well as a reduction in general wear and tear and ease of maintenance.” Fast and Efficient Covering The unique and durable covers almost eliminate evaporation, reduce humidity and condensation, plus the ease of operating the system for pool staff is essential. Plastica’s reel systems are made with stainless steel to maximise strength, longevity and ease of maintenance. They offer choices to accommodate any commercial pool requirement. Manual for smaller lighter pool covers and motorised systems – to reduce manual handling for poolside staff. Plastica has earned an enviable reputation for installing cover and reel systems to an agreed schedule, which is essential for commercial centres, that need to forewarn customers about any short-term pool closures. If you’d like to learn more about any of the Plastica products mentioned here, please visit: www.plasticapools.net
HAGS Play and Outdoor Equipment
HAGS understands how to design play spaces that attract customers to your destination and keep them there longer. While parents explore your “grown-up” environment, the children can stay occupied on our fun play solutions that stimulate their imagination and challenge them physically. As any commercial operator will tell you, happy entertained children mean happy and relaxed parents! An exciting and challenging play area gives children somewhere to let off steam and make new friends. Investing in new or existing play equipment is a great way to show customers that your commercial establishment caters for families with young children who want to be entertained and have fun. Whatever type of play area you want to create, however big or small, HAGS can assist you through the process. From designing to manufacturing the equipment right through to installation and aftercare. HAGS provides a fully comprehensive solution to ensure your satisfaction. The story behind the name HAGS is European with Scandinavian roots and was born in 1948 when a small Swedish engineering company took an order for a swing frame from a local community. When it was installed people started talking about it and the owners saw an opportunity to refocus the company in the production of playground structures. Working with you HAGS’ philosophy is to inspire all generations by creating exciting play areas that: attract customers to your site, improve your customers experience, increase dwell time and increase your foot traffic providing you with a great return on investment. The HAGS approach HAGS provides a full service from design through to installation. We start by creating fresh exciting designs based on consultations with project managers, designers, architects and site managers. We listen and involve you throughout the process, whilst also drawing on our industry experience. Increasing your ROI Tailored to fit HAGS’ considered designs and proposals are tailored with you and your clients in mind. The HAGS team works with your site and budget to ensure your investment works for all concerned. Your site is unique, and whether you are considering a whole development, or a single unit offering many areas of play value, HAGS will work with you to achieve the right solution and ensure your project delivers. The importance of an external Play Area In an increasingly ‘more is more’ world, businesses are starting to realise the benefits of developing their sites to provide more than just a one-off experience. These days, we are seeing more and more business owners begin to invest in a well-designed play area to not only attract customers, but retain them for longer providing them with a greater return on investment Attract families to your site Research has shown that children’s play facilities influence customer’s decisions on where to visit, dine out or holiday. Installing a well-designed play area illustrates how businesses are working to improve the customer experience. Increase dwell time Parents often use the promise of visiting a play area as a motivation to visit somewhere more frequently. As the play areas are safe and secure it gives families peace of mind to allow their children to play. It’s also an inexpensive option to entertain the children, whatever the occasion. Higher foot traffic Parents often use the promise of visiting a play area as a motivation to visit somewhere more frequently. As the play areas are safe and secure it gives families peace of mind to allow their children to play. It’s also an inexpensive option to entertain the children, whatever the occasion. 87% of families are more likely to visit a holiday park, pub or visitor attraction with their children because of the play facilities on offer. 95% of families are more likely to return to a site if their children have been entertained and happy playing in a safe play area. 97% of families feel that having facilities to entertain children while at a public house, holiday park or leisure facility is vitally important to them. HAGS currently has some great offers for commercial providers on a range of their high quality products. For example: UniPlay Metis Junior Multi-Play Unit – Supply, Delivery & Install with Grass Matting: £6,999* Viper Rope Swing Supply, Delivery & Install with Grass Matting: £6,999* Arena Philadelphia Multi-Use Games Area Supply, Delivery & Install (excluding surfacing): £4,499* To see the full range, visit: www.hags.co.uk/cipo
Golden Coast says relax
Managing multiple facilities is a complex task, but with a Golden Coast heat pump you can at least be confident that your hot tub heating is fully under control. The pump uses innovative inverter technology to maintain water temperature on a low current, thereby ensuring higher efficiency. Since the pump uses far less energy, electricity bills are significantly reduced – so you need not worry about your budget. “You can relax knowing that the heat pump is only using the amount of energy you need it to, preventing any unwelcome surprises when the electricity bill comes,” explains Adam Clark, Sales Director at Golden Coast. “In fact, running costs will not only be manageable, but could be far lower compared to using electric heaters. You could save thousands of pounds by switching to a Golden Coast heat pump.” Given the amount of light and heat sources running simultaneously around a holiday park, power cuts are a common issue. But when you turn on a Golden Coast heat pump, soft start technology reduces the current peak for a seamless start up. The lower energy consumption also means you can be sure you’re using a more sustainable heating product – helping you cut your carbon footprint. The robust build of a Golden Coast Heat pump guarantees a long product life, so maintenance isn’t a problem either. The pump benefits from titanium heat exchangers which are resistant to corrosion by salt, chlorine and bromine. Even the changeable and unpredictable weather experienced throughout the UK is no match for a Golden Coast heat pump. It can operate in cold temperatures as low as -15°C, and has a heater tray element that protects the machine in colder months. The heat pump unit comprises an efficient rotary compressor and multi-speed fan motor which guarantee quiet operation with a noise level of just 40dB (that’s library level), so guests won’t be disturbed by the sound. “Our heat pump is ideal for holiday parks because it can keep hot tubs warm in any season, which provides more flexibility with facilities, and since the heat pump warms the water quickly, guests will be happy that they don’t have to wait long to use the hot tub,” assures Adam. “Whether you have one hot tub or a hundred, managing them should be stress-free, and it can be with a Golden Coast heat pump.” For more information on Golden Coast heat pumps, contact a member of the sales team on 01271 378100, email swimmer@goldenc.com or visit www.goldenc.com.
Stand out with premium connectivity for staycationers
Much has been written about the importance of digital connectivity in the world of work, but it’s just as important for holidaymakers. With 67% of travellers saying quality Wi-Fi is a deciding factor when choosing where to holiday, connectivity is not just a nice-to-have for operators in this sector. While many caravan and holiday parks offer Wi-Fi access to their guests, due to the limitations of the technology the quality of the connection can sometimes be poor and unreliable. This can potentially lead to frustration for guests as many people expect to be able to access the same services they do at home, such as social media and streaming. However, telecoms reseller Online Systems and UK network service provider Freshwave have teamed up and developed an exciting industry first. In 2019 in a first for the UK, Vodafone agreed to share some of its spectrum with Freshwave to help offer high-speed mobile broadband in remote areas without fibre connectivity, as well as to promote efficient use of its spectrum. Using this spectrum and small cell technology, Freshwave and Online Systems have developed mobile private networks that bring 4G data speeds to park lodges via a small antenna on each lodge. An “off the shelf”, standard 4G router then distributes the signal internally via Wi-Fi. Operational services, such as sales, maintenance and housekeeping are also able to use the network. Using a mobile private network brings a host of benefits to both the guests and the park: A more robust and stable connection: The ease of Wi-Fi access but without the capacity restraints. It’s too expensive to dig comms cable to every lodge so Wi-Fi is usually provided by outdoor access points, each serving multiple lodges. But a mobile private network provides broadband capacity using a 4G small cell network. Even before the pandemic connectivity was important, but with new, flexible ways of working expected in the future, its importance will only increase. Less infrastructure to install: 4G needs less infrastructure than Wi-Fi due to its far greater range, especially in the presence of obstructions such as trees. This is a huge benefit in a holiday park as digging runs the risk of coming across unexpected things such as gas, water, electricity and foul water. And less excavation means less disturbance for guests in the park, as well as minimising health and safety risks. Less infrastructure can also reduce cost: Mobile spectrum enables higher power and reliability, meaning better coverage with fewer radio points, resulting in lower costs. On-site control for the holiday park operator: It’s their network giving them complete control of coverage, capacity, data and devices, as each must use a SIM registered to the network. Alec MacDonald, Head of Special Projects at Online Systems, said: “Holiday park operators are excited to learn about this new connectivity option and the feedback we’ve had from parks who are already using our mobile private networks has been excellent. Their guests are happy to have reliable, secure connections that they can use multiple devices on. And the park operators find that it’s also valuable for their operational services. The speed of deployment of these networks is also a real bonus, as they are up and running quickly with minimal disruption.” These award-winning mobile private networks are already being enjoyed in holiday parks across England and Scotland. To find out more, email us at sales@onlinesystems.co.uk.
Pathways to a perfect park landscape: Soils, Aggregates and Stone
First impressions really count, and that does not stop at your park entrance. It continues onto your main thoroughfare and beyond at every pitch and pocket of land – it impacts site-wide. Waterlogged patches, unruly pathways and pot-holed roads are an instant turn-off, causing untold damage to your reputation as well as to vehicles and pedestrians. Planted beds, hedge screening, wildflower meadows and green roofs can make your outdoor experience stand out for all the right reasons, too. At that means taking a closer look beneath your feet… Chances are you want your park to be more than just a place to stay. You want holidaymakers to return, to recommend and to share a positive experience of their time on site. Whilst the accommodation, the facilities, the entertainment and the environment are critical factors, it will no doubt be the “bits in between” where you could be letting the side – and site – down. Roadways, pathways, play and plants Suppliers of British Standard topsoils and aggregates for almost a quarter of a century, MCM are favoured by award-winning landscapers and the UK’s leading construction companies when it comes to the provision of consistently high quality landscape materials. The Surrey-based company source materials from quarries and sites across the South East but have a UK-wide logistics network. They have been the first port of call for soils and aggregates to projects including Holland Park play area in Kensington, Kearsney Court historic park in Dover, roof gardens and avenues at Wembley Park and groundworks at the University of Winchester. It is in these and other private, commercial and public open space projects where the correct specification, selection and supply of soils, gravels and aggregates is critical. This is why it is so important to consider your end goals when it comes to product choice for park renovations and refurbishment. Choose the right landscape materials Whether gabion stone for a cage wall or bank reinforcement, new planting or a forecourt of self-binding gravel that looks great all year round, discuss your options with a specialist supplier of soils and aggregates. They can guide you on product selection and advise on site preparation, calculating how much you need and how it can best be delivered to site dependent on access, space and location. MCM supply in loose, direct-to-site loads up to 20 tonnes or in multi-lift bags so that deliveries can be tailored to suit. British Standards soils and blends for planting, turf and meadow Now more than ever, we want to embrace and enjoy our outdoor spaces. And whilst your holiday park is more than likely blessed with a natural environment, you can always add more – perhaps some hedge screening, new planting beds, lawns, playgrounds, improvements to your wooded areas or perhaps even a living wall or green roof. Creating new beds means new soil and to ensure the healthiest establishment and long-term success of your planting, you should select the best soil blend and one that meets the most rigorous of British Standard specifications – and has the test certificate to prove it. MCM supplies lightweight substrates for roof gardens and areas where soil weight and drainage are top considerations, as well as specialist soils for acid-loving plants. For wildflower planting in pockets around the development, choose a low fertility topsoil blend to provide the nutrient levels required for a thriving soft landscape whilst suppressing the onset of invasive weeds across the planting scheme. Preparing your site to diversify PROJECT: Self-binding golden gravel path for alpacas on Surrey farm Binding together when rolled to create a self-compacted golden surface, MCM’s self-binding gravel has been used to great effect on this farm in Surrey. The golden driveway stays firm underfoot and is a versatile and attractive alternative to other more traditional loose aggregates. The homeowner took delivery of their self-binding gravel in April and after transporting the gravel by dumper across a 200 metre stretch to the alpaca shelters at the bottom of an adjacent field, the hard standing area is now complete and ready for its South American visitors. “Lulu” and the gang are more than happy with their upgraded home, as is the homeowner who commended the MCM team for helping them with product selection and arranging swift delivery. PROJECT: Self-binding golden gravel path for alpacas on Surrey farm Binding together when rolled to create a self-compacted golden surface, MCM’s self-binding gravel has been used to great effect on this farm in Surrey. The golden driveway stays firm underfoot and is a versatile and attractive alternative to other more traditional loose aggregates. The homeowner took delivery of their self-binding gravel in April and after transporting the gravel by dumper across a 200 metre stretch to the alpaca shelters at the bottom of an adjacent field, the hard standing area is now complete and ready for its South American visitors. “Lulu” and the gang are more than happy with their upgraded home, as is the homeowner who commended the MCM team for helping them with product selection and arranging swift delivery. A welcoming environment PRODUCT: Paving the way with permeable recycled aggregates With site drainage crucial throughout the year, it is worth considering a permeable recycled aggregate alternative to keep your landscape and groundworks free-draining and puddle-free. Cheaper than a primary aggregate – a win-win for budget and environment – a 2/6mm permeable aggregate bedding layer allows surface water to run off and escape through the sub-base and into the ground beneath. Its grading gives a balance between the sub-base layer’s stability and the free movement of water off, down and through. This makes this recycled permeable aggregate the perfect base layer for sports pitches, paving, car parks and driveways. PRODUCT: Paving the way with permeable recycled aggregates With site drainage crucial throughout the year, it is worth considering a permeable recycled aggregate alternative to keep your landscape and groundworks free-draining and puddle-free. Cheaper than a primary aggregate – a win-win for budget and environment – a 2/6mm permeable aggregate bedding layer allows surface
A Golden Coast heat pump will keep guests happy year-round.
British weather may be famously unpredictable, but at least guests can count on their hot tubs being warm thanks to an innovative heat pump from Golden Coast. The inverter-driven air source pump heats water up to 40°C and maintains the desired temperature while operating on a lower current. This allows it to use less energy compared to electric heaters, making it a much eco-friendlier option. The heat pump has been tried and tested in parks around the UK with impressive results. One field test conducted by a holiday park operator revealed a Golden Coast heat pump offered a return on their investment in just 18 months based on their usage and environment, resulting in an order of over 200 units. Adam Clark, Sales Director at Golden Coast explains: “Our highly efficient heat pump keeps energy consumption and running costs low. Owners can even monitor usage and control the temperature easily thanks to the touchscreen display. It means parks are completely in control of their spending, and if they have multiple hot tubs on site, it can result in significant savings over time.” Designed to be durable and long lasting, a Golden Coast heat pump uses titanium heat exchangers which are resistant to corrosion by salt, chlorine and bromine. The pump can operate in cold temperatures as low as -15°C, and has a heater tray element that protects the machine in colder months. Importantly, its unique ventilation structure means the heat pump is extremely quiet, so will not disturb guests. “There will be lots of guests around the country looking to find something special for their staycations this year, and a hot tub is always a sought-after feature,” says Adam. “It’s essential that the hot tub is useable no matter what the weather, and thanks to a high coefficient of performance, a Golden Coast heat pump warms the water quickly so guests can enjoy the spa in no time. Our heat pump offers a high level of reliability for park operators looking to extend their facility use through every season. It won’t let you or your guests down.” For more information on Golden Coast heat pumps, contact a member of the sales team on 01271 378100, email swimmer@goldenc.com or visit www.goldenc.com.
Interactive smartphone app and web-based advertising portal launched by NRM Group
NRM Group, whose Jigsaw brand has become the entertainment system of choice, has launched its new Interactive smartphone app and web-based advertising portal. NRM’s Sales Manager Freddie Shreeve, said: “Following Jigsaw’s launch in 2014, the team have undertaken a progressive and imaginative development of the entertainment brand which already comprises of an extensive music library, karaoke, interactive games, digital advertising, cash, prize and linked bingo and so much more” The creation of these exciting new features has been a fantastic addition to the ever-flexible Jigsaw content package. Jigsaw Interactive is a platform which brings together cutting-edge smartphone technology with traditional pub quiz formats to create the perfect interactive platform for any venue! Quizzing shouldn’t be complicated. Simplicity is at the heart of Jigsaw Interactive, creating a gameplay experience that allows anyone to easily host or play a game, regardless of their age or technical ability. Expertly designed and developed by our in-house development team and pub quiz enthusiasts, there are plenty of categories to choose from including general knowledge, sport and entertainment. Simplicity and customer engagement being two key ingredients for success. A simple and easy way to deliver Interactive Quiz and to compete against teams/players in other venues, Jigsaw’s software allows you to host and play quizzes using any smartphone device with your guests, whether that’s together in one venue, remotely on Zoom due to lockdown restrictions or competing against multiple teams across the world! Quizzes not your guest’s thing? Don’t worry, the Jigsaw Interactive smartphone app not only allows customers to participate in local and linked quizzes it also allows them to interact and engage with you and your venue in other ways too. Request a Track allows your guests to browse Jigsaw’s entire music, video and karaoke libraries and request their favourite tracks. (approval from staff required) Jukebox Mode – music tracks are sent directly to the playlist for a true Jukebox- fuelled music event Text and/or Picture Messages can be sent to the public screens which is great for party nights or family events (approval from staff required) iVote allows your customers to vote for anything: Easter Bonnet Parade, best act in your talent show, their favourite dish from the menu, or the next guest ale Game Face if customers submit a selfie or other image, these can be randomised on the screens (a bit like on Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway) to choose an individual to win a prize, or to play a Jigsaw game for a prize, or to just sing the next karaoke track. Remote Content Manager is the new and easy way to administer, organize, and distribute digital content to your Media Displays via the Jigsaw System, this web-based software enables you to develop a library of photos, videos, graphics and templates that are easy to search and ready to deploy. The software can be controlled from your own PC/ Tablet or phone using a simple login and password. Great entertainment is one of the most quoted reasons on Trip Advisor for a guest wanting to return, and as a company we are committed to helping our customers in any way that we can. Our ethos is to ensure that all entertainments staff are fully conversant with the Jigsaw product and its capabilities. We are the only company in the sector to provide such a service which maximises ROI in what is a key contributor to a holiday parks entertainment and guest proposition.” Whether Corporate or family owned, it’s clear that Jigsaw meets the wide-ranging requirements across the full spectrum of holiday park venues in the UK.” With Jigsaw now installed in holiday parks stretching from Inverness to Dover and the Lizard Peninsula to Prestatyn, NRM provides a comprehensive national technical support function with a dedicated team on hand seven days a week. Jigsaw technical support is accessible via remote PC access, a dedicated customer service phone number, as well as via Jigsaw WhatsApp User Groups that provide instant messaging and support. Freddie continues “2020 has unfortunately impacted a plethora of our customers businesses, at NRM we have been keen to ensure our on-going support whilst maintaining investment into the Jigsaw platform. Providing our customers with the very latest developments and content that is relevant to their operational and guests needs is very important to us. I think It’s fair to say that NRM through Jigsaw has delivered some real innovation, Jigsaw Interactive and the delivery of a truly flexible and easy to use remote content management system are testimony to this.” In concluding his thoughts for 2021, “It’s clear that 2021 will deliver us all some further challenges, at NRM we are ready to support and work with all our customers in meeting those challenges. Ensuring our customers invest wisely in a proven, reliable platform and content, have the flexibility to chose payment options that work for them whilst offering their own guests the very latest in Interactive features sits at the very heart of our approach”
Will Wind Work for you?
Producing off grid energy from the wind can be an ideal source in a rural location for caravan camping, glamping or at an outdoor event as a power supply. To produce a decent amount of power you need a good wind site. The best starting point is to access a wind speed database such as https://www.rensmart.com/Maps Enter the postcode of the location you wish to site a wind turbine. The wind data base will advise you the average wind speed in metres/second (m/s) at various heights. Ideally anything above 5.5m/s at 10 metres, otherwise a wind turbine may not be a viable option for you. Variations can occur depending on the elevation of the land. At 5.5 m/s with a clean air site the FuturEnergy Airforce1 wind turbine could produce an estimated 1100kw per year, so if the average wind speed is more than 5.5m/s this is all the better. A good wind site location for a horizontal wind turbine needs to be in a rural location in clean air area away from trees, hedges, walls, and buildings which may cause turbulence. Therefore, do you have the correct conditions to produce the power you require? By comparing how much power you potentially need (to run appliances) to the wind speed in your area and how much power you can potentially produce is a good indicator to see if this energy source will work for you. Example: Average Wind Speed 5.5m/s = estimated 1100kwh = 1100kwh of electricity over 12 months or more if the wind speed is higher. At 6.5m/s this would increase to an estimated 1800kwh and at 7.5m/s an estimated 2,500kwh increasing exponentially. Wind is best shared with solar as a hybrid system gaining the best of both worlds taking advantage of the sun in the summer and the wind in the winter. Storing the power created by both sources in a lithium battery enables the use of the energy created when required. The battery energy may be used off-grid or on grid with the correct equipment. Not just any wind will do. For a wind turbine to operate efficiently it needs air that moves uniformly in the same direction and is strong enough to provide sufficient energy to turn the turbine. In general, the higher the turbine is above the local environment, the stronger and more stable the wind will be. Go fly a kite An inexpensive and visually productive way to find out at what height turbulent air ends, and smooth, laminar airflow begins, is to fly a kite at the proposed wind turbine location on a windy day, preferably when the wind is coming from the prevailing direction. To visualize airflow, use tape-streamers tied to the kite’s string every 5metres or so. Wildly fluttering tape indicates turbulence, smoothly extended tape means smooth air. Be sure to take the angle of the kite’s string into account when calculating height. The energy in the wind increases with the cube of the wind speed (P x V³), and wind speed increases with height. An increase of just 26% in wind speed means twice as much power is available in the wind, and the wind turbine will produce almost twice as much. Double the wind speed and there is almost eight times as much power available. A small additional investment in tower height may therefore be well worth the cost due to the increased energy production. Multiple wind turbines can also be utilised thereby increasing the power produced but these need to be spaced so not to cause turbulence from each unit. The bottom of a hill, valley, or ravine makes for a poor place to site a wind turbine. The wind tends to drop in speed at the bottom of a smooth hill, then speed up as it goes up the hill, reaching around twice the wind speed at the top of the hill. For obstructions that are not smooth, such as a cliff (i.e., a sudden rise in the landscape), it gets much more difficult. Sharp edges create turbulence. The airflow at the top of the cliff can be stronger than the average wind speed in the area, but close to the cliff’s edge it will also be very turbulent, making it a poor site for a turbine. It may be possible to use a higher tower or set it far enough back from the cliff edge to get above the inevitably turbulent air. The lee side, (downwind of the prevailing winds), of a prominent object makes for a very poor wind turbine site. The object will create large turbulence on its downwind side, and the average wind speed will drop off dramatically. This leaves no energy for the wind turbine to harvest. The effect of airflow over any obstruction, including trees and shrubs, tends to create a “bubble” of turbulent air around twice the height of the obstacle that extends 20 times the height of the obstacle downwind from it. FuturEnergy has been manufacturing the Made in Britain, Airforce1 1kw micro wind turbine for over 15 years now at their premises just outside Stratford-upon-Avon in Warwickshire. The vision was to manufacture a robust small wind turbine that would generate enough power to make a difference. This has culminated recently with the Airforce Controller that is supplied with a 24v or 48v wind turbine systems ready to be mounted on a standard sized scaffold pole. The Airforce Control automatically protects the turbine in strong wind conditions, providing battery charging control, whilst monitoring wind speeds and power generation. Customers are now able to connect to their wind turbine from anywhere in the world using the free iPhone/Android app and check on the turbines power output, even allowing them to start and stop the turbine. The kit includes: The FuturEnergy wind turbine body AC (incorporating their 1kw permanent magnet generator), tail assembly, 3 bladed rotor set, manual AC stop switch, Airforce1 Controller and anemometer complete with 12m of anemometer cable. Price: £2,250.00 (inc.VAT) www.futurenergy.co.uk
JNC offers a wide range of amusement machines to suit all budgets
Celebrating their fortieth year, JNC Sales go into the season with a new-look website that continues to highlight their wide range of new and used amusement machines to suit all sites and budgets. The JNC warehouse, and now their new online catalogue, hosts thousands of machines that come site-ready following comprehensive workshop testing, supported by a dedicated aftersales team and parts warranty. 2021 sees the introduction of some exciting new lines, which have been specifically selected by JNC to align with customer feedback and a market that needs an injection of bold, vibrant pieces without breaking the bank. Rocket Launch is a spectacular rocket-themed prize redemption piece that is the perfect size and design for children looking to win smaller prizes and sweets. With the option for three players to play at the same time, Rocket Launch is a game of timing and skill, where players must pick the right moment to help move the prizes off the rotating bed and into the payout tray, whilst the game also functions as a striking centre-piece without the need for a big space on the arcade floor. JNC have also added to their strong range of cranes, supplementing the popular Crazy Toy and Telephone Box ranges with Dream Castle, a bold five player pink crane, and Mini House, a miniature two player crane that comes available in different cabinet colours. Dream Castle is a unique five player crane that features a range of different cabinet sizes and claw options to offer operators the chance to engage with the whole family, whilst also featuring an attractive topflash and a video monitor for heightened interaction. Mini House is a top-performing mini crane that stands at just 61cm wide x 41cm deep, so is a must-have item to squeeze into those smaller spaces. The crane can offer prizes up to 8cm and comes with a range of game modes, claw power and motor speeds to allow for straight-forward set-up and configuration. Recognising their customers need for low-outgoings but high-income equipment, JNC are pleased to re-launch Martian Madness, a stunning five-player round pusher that has proven its worth as a top-performing ticket or cash-only pusher. With new cabinet artwork, improved LED lighting, and more accessible glass panels to complement its unique spinning UFO-style topflash, Martian Madness boats a small footprint at just 1.5m wide without compromising on its visual appeal and customer engagement. Dino Land and Raiders are the latest models in JNC’s successful range of min ball-shooters, a collection that has allowed operators to offer children high-value shooting-style redemption games (ticket/capsule payout) at less than £1,995 for the two player models and just £1,195 for the one player games. Giant Prize Pod Pro continues to be the top-performing redemption game available, with its success over the last 18 months built on its highly-visible giant prize in the colourful cabinet and simple gameplay. Players simply have to time the cutting of the string to release the giant prize and they win it! The latest models come with updated lighting and a desirable mercy ticket option that will keep players happy even if the big prize illudes them! In addition to their new lines, the JNC warehouse continues to house tried and trusted amusement machines, from used video games and coin pushers to sports games and kiddie rides. JNC are able to send images of all products in stock, and furthermore can send videos of the machines once they have been through the workshop process, ensuring every item is site-ready and supported with a dedicated aftersales team and individual parts warranty. To book a visit to the JNC warehouse and to see their workshop in action, or to see their full range of machines, call 0117 938 2552 or visit www.jnc-sales.co.uk
