Sheet Metal Journal Spring 2014

SPRING 2014

sheetmetaljournal.com

Classroom Acoustics VAV Reheat vs Active Chilled Beams & DOAS: Part 2 Euro-Rite Cabinets: Built Right in Pitt Meadows SMACNA-BC Update Hydraulic Press Brakes

Publications Mail Agreement # 40719512

Official Journal of Record for SMACNA-BC

PROMOTING

GROWTH AND STABILITY IN OUR INDUSTRY

Formed in 1969, the British Columbia Sheet Metal Association (SMACNA-BC) was the first international chapter of the Sheet Metal & Air-conditioning Contractors National Association (SMACNA). Founded in 1934, SMACNA traces its history to the National Association of Sheet Metal Contractors established in 1910, and has 2,300 members worldwide.

SMACNA-BC is a member-driven association representing unionized sheet metal contractors in the Mainland of BC, and suppliers to our industry. It promotes the growth and stability of the members and industry.

OUR MANDATE • To improve the financial stability and business conditions of the sheet metal industry, and to develop and promote methods to improve managerial proficiency • To improve quality, efficiency and productivity of this industry, and to implement high standards of work • To establish and maintain high ethical standards of conduct between members of the Association, and between members and owners, architects, engineers, other contractors, and the public • To study and help in the development and enforcement of governmental codes and regulations, and such legislation as may be necessary for the best interest of the public and the sheet metal industry • To promote harmony in labour relations • To exchange technical, professional, and educational information with other contractor associations in the sheet metal industry and its allied trades in Canada and other countries • To affiliate as a Chapter with the Sheet Metal & Air-conditioning Contractors National Association, Inc.

BC Sheet Metal Association (SMACNA-BC) Executive Director: Bruce Sychuk 315-15225 104th Ave. Surrey, BC. V3R 6Y8 Phone: (604) 585-4641 • Fax: (604) 584-9304 E-mail: smacnabc@smacna-bc.org • www.smacna-bc.org

in this issue... www.sheetmetaljournal.com GROUP PUBLISHER

Spring 2014

08

Lara Perraton lperraton@pointonemedia.com

EDITOR

Jessica Kirby jessica.kirby@pointonemedia.com

CONTRIBUTORS Micaela Carlson Ian Moes Jeff Stein Bruce Sychuk Steven T. Taylor

COVER PHOTO Courtesy of Smith Sheet Metal Works

The Learned Truth About Classroom Acoustics

11

ADVERTISING SALES

Christina Tranberg 877.755.2762 ctranberg@pointonemedia.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Lara Perraton 877.755.2762 lperraton@pointonemedia.com PUBLISHED QUARTERLY BY Point One Media Inc.

Sheet Metal Journal P.O. Box 11, Station A Nanaimo, BC V9R 5K4 Toll-free: 877.755.2762 Fax: 877.796.4624 www.sheetmetaljournal.com

14

VAV Reheat vs Active Chilled Beams & DOAS

While information contained in this publication has been compiled from sources deemed to be reliable, the publisher may not be held liable for omissions or errors.

Contents ©2014 by Point One Media Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or duplicated without prior written permission from the publisher.

Printed in Canada.

Postage paid at Simcoe, ON.

Euro-Rite Cabinets: Built Right in Pitt Meadows

16

Return postage guaranteed. Canada Post Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement #40719512.

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Circulation Department Sheet Metal Journal P.O. Box 11, Station A Nanaimo, BC V9R 5K4 email: circulations@pointonemedia.com

Official Journal of Record for SMACNA - BC Find Sheet Metal Journal on Twitter and Facebook

Manufacturer Spotlight: Roto-Die Press Brakes COLUMNS & DEPARTMENTS

04 • SMACNA-BC Update

19 • Technical Update

06 • Editorial Comment

21 • It's the Law

07

22 • Industry News

• SMACNA-BC News

18 • Global Metal

23 • Advertiser Index www.sheetmetaljournal.com • Spring 2014

3

SMACNA-BC UPDATE It’s the beginning of May, 2014. Let’s see... what has SMACNA-BC been working on and what do we have planned for the rest of the year?

This year seems kind of out of sorts. The stars and planets haven’t aligned; something is definitely out of whack.

We seem to have more time to plan this year, compared to previous years; however, on another note, I am having trouble getting decent tee times at the golf course this year. After much research and soul-searching I finally realized what was different: I attribute some added productive time and lack of tee times to the fact that our beloved Vancouver Canucks didn’t make the play-offs this year. This, of course, means time wasted watching the Canuck games is saved, and the hockey players are booking the good tee times.

Okay, we’ve had BDO Canada LLP in to give us a clean bill of health with respect to our annual audit. The SMACNA-BC board of directors and I have locked ourselves in a room for nine hours revisiting SMACNA-BC achievements in 2013, creating a strategic plan for 2014, establishing a budget, and doing our best “Carnac the Magnificent” impression to project the state of the BC sheet metal industry for 2014. FYI, we came up with basically a “flat” year, same as 2013. I might

by / Bruce Sychuk Executive Director, SMACNA-BC

add that the industry hours for 2013 were up by 15.07% from 2012. This increase was due to an increase of industrial sheet metal work in the province; commercial and institutional remained relatively flat.

Last February, SMACNA-BC hosted two very well-attended Business Management programs: “Managing the Lifeblood of Contracting – Cash Flow” and “Cracking the WIP – Driving Predictable Cost Projections.” Stephane McShane, senior consultant at Maxim Consulting Group based out of Denver, CO, was the presenter for both programs. Ms. McShane is an extremely motivational and inspirational speaker, mentor, and teacher, who really brought the message home regarding the importance of cash flow, collecting receivables, the cost of financing, and facts and figures relating to the recovery of past due receivables and the duration of time lapsed in the collection of these receivables.

Below is a sampling of some of the staggering facts that she shared with the group. These figures indicate the percentages of monies historically recovered. The lengthy durations are a reflection of cases when litigation may be involved.

Days Past Due

Percent Recovered

30 Days

97%

120 Days

80%

90 Days

180 Days 1 Year

2 Years 3 Years

90% 67% 45% 23% 12%

The facts and figures presented stated the obvious important fact that successful contractors manage cash flow properly in an effort to avoid being trapped into financing the project with profits.

SMACNA-BC has scheduled Maxim Consulting Group and Stephane McShane for a two-day Project Manager Skills

4

Sheet Metal Journal

SMACNA-BC UPDATE Academy for September 15 and 16, tentatively. Details of the program will be forthcoming to SMACNA-BC Contractor Members.

WorkSafeBC Medical Advisor Info Line WorkSafeBC now has a Medical Advisor Info Line: 1-855476-3049. This line is a single point of contact for employers to connect directly with a medical advisor at WorkSafeBC. The Medical Advisors can help with medical clarification and provide a timely response to your questions. The line operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

SMACNA-BC CALENDAR OF EVENTS Thursday, May 22, 2014 SMACNA-BC Dinner Meeting: Bonding, claims, subcontractor default insurance, and quickbonds. Speakers: Tyler Cheney, Intact Insurance Company, formerly known as AXA Pacific Insurance Company & Dave Thorpe, The Guarantee Insurance Company of North America.

Location: Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel, Surrey, BC

Wednesday, June 4, 2014 Eli Howard III, Executive Director of SMACNA Technical Services, will provide updates on HVAC Duct Construction, Fire Smoke Dampers, Seismic Bracing, and HVAC Air Duct Leakage.

Location: Sheraton Vancouver Guilford, Surrey, BC

Friday, September 12, 2014 SMACNA-BC Annual Golf Classic Location: Northview GC, Surrey, BC

October 12-15, 2014 SMACNA National Convention Location: JW Marriott, Hill Country, San Antonio, TX

Are you working on an interesting or challenging project?

Tell us about it.

Contact our editor, Jessica Kirby, at 250.816.3671 or email jessica.kirby@pointonemedia.com

British Columbia Sheet Metal Association (SMACNA-BC) Providing products and information related to the Sheet Metal Industry, including technical manuals and guidelines.

The unmatched technical and managerial expertise of SMACNA-BC Contractors is enhanced by the talent and skills of the workforce they employ. SMACNA-BC Contractors employ only Red Seal Certified Sheet Metal Journeymen and Registered Apprentices.

CONTRACTOR MEMBERS 101 Industries Ltd. Admiral Roofing Ltd. Agvale Industries Ltd. Airtek Pneumatics Ltd. All Valley Metals Ltd. Alliance Metal Fabricators Ltd. Allied Blower and Sheet Metal Ltd. Ames Metal Fabricators 82 Ltd. Apollo Sheet Metal Ltd. Austin Metal Fabricators L.P. BF Roofing Ltd. The Blue Collar Group Bry-Mac Mechanical Ltd. CC Industries Ltd. Cascade Metal Design Ltd. Century Plumbing & Heating Ltd. City Sheet Metal Ltd. Crosstown Metal Industries Ltd. Downtown Custom Metal Works Ltd. Duncan’s Ltd. Ecco Supply Equity Plumbing & Heating Ltd. Haakon Industries Canada Ltd.

Harbourview Sheet Metal Ltd. Horizon Cladding Ltd. Horizon Metal Systems Inc. KD Engineering Co. Keith Plumbing & Heating Co. Ltd. M & T Air Conditioning Ltd. Main Sheet Metal Works Ltd. Northwest Sheet Metal Ltd. Pacific Rim Industrial Insulation, Ltd. Paramount Sheet Metal Ltd. Piedmont Sheet Metal (1997) Ltd. Quest Metal Works Ltd. R.H. Jones & Son Mechanical Ltd. Ridge Sheet Metal C.P. Smith Sheet Metal Works Ltd. Spectrum Sheet Metal Ltd. Summit Sheet Metal Ltd. Tri-Metal Fabricators Viaduct Sheet Metal Ltd. Vicwest Delta Western Mechanical Services (1977) Ltd. York Sheet Metal Ltd.

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS Access Metal Products Ltd. Air System Supplies Bailey West Processing Inc. BGE Service & Supply Ltd. Crossroads C&I Distributors DDK Ventilation Products Ltd. E.H. Price Sales Ltd. Engineered Air Envirotech Air Inc. ETP Energy Technology Products Ltd. (a div. of IPC, Inc.) Frost Insulation Supplies Inc. Grant Thornton LLP

Intercon Insurance Services Ltd. Jardine, Lloyd, Thompson Canada Inc. Maxam Metal Products Modern Tool (BC) Ltd. Multicam Western Canada Pacaire HVAC Supplies Ltd. Power Suction Services Ltd. (P.S.S.) Progressive Air Products Ltd. Quote Software Samuel, Son & Co., Ltd. SPI / Burnaby Insulation Wilkinson Steel - Metals Wm. P. Somerville 1996 Ltd.

BC Sheet Metal Association (SMACNA-BC) Executive Director: Bruce Sychuk 315-15225 104th Ave. Surrey, BC V3R 6Y8 Phone: (604) 585-4641 Fax: (604) 584-9304 E-mail: smacnabc@smacna-bc.org

www.sheetmetaljournal.com • Spring 2014

5

SMACNA-BC UPDATE WHAT COMES NEXT

Welcome to the spring issue of Sheet Metal Journal. With most of us watching the door swing shut on another tax season and the summer busy season peeking around the corner, it is a time of relief and anticipation about what comes next in the construction industry.

As far as Lower Mainland construction goes, what comes next is the result of a moderate rise in building permit values recorded by the Vancouver Regional Construction Association in March. An eight per cent rise in residential permits off-sets a drop in non-residential permits. Here's the break down: Total permit values in March 2014 rose eight per cent to $578.4 million compared to $537.1 million in February 2014.

• Total non-residential permit values fell seven per cent in March 2014 to $205.4 million compared to $220.9 million in February 2014.

• Commercial permits fell 43 per cent to $101.7 million from $179.7 million.

• Institutional-government permits jumped 149 per cent to $78.9 million from $31.7 million.

• Industrial permits rose 163 per cent to $24.8 million from $9.4 million.

• Residential permit values were up 18 per cent to $373 million in March 2014 compared to $316.3 million in February 2014.

Total building permit values were 18 per cent higher at $1.75 billion in the first three months of 2014 compared to $1.482 billion in the first three months of 2013.

• Non-residential permits were 45 per cent higher at $579.5 million from $398.6 million last year.

• Residential permit values were eight per cent higher at $1.171 billion from $1.084 billion last year.

VRCA keeps regular stats on building permit values and other construction economics on its website: www.vrca.bc.ca.

What comes next in terms of Sheet Metal Journal is another bag of tricks. The most important change as of late is Christina Tranberg joining our team as account manager for SMJ. If you've already met Christina, I am sure you will agree that her enthusiasm and cheerful disposition are a pleasure to experience, and we welcome her to our team with equal enthusiasm. Drop her a line to say hello or with any questions you may have about your advertising account.

We have started a new section in SMJ that I am excited about: Global Metal. We are showcasing interesting and unique

6

Sheet Metal Journal

by / Jessica Kirby, Editor

projects from around the world in sheet metal, architectural metal, heating, and cooling and so far we've found some great stuff. Last issue we looked at ventilation in the Egyptian pyramids, and this issue we have NASA's efforts to create the coldest place in the known universe—on the International Space Station. Check it out and drop me a line if, in your travels, you see anything interesting or unique that you think will make a good fit for this great new section.

We've also been featuring manufacturers in each issue, with a focus on bringing you the latest from SMACNA-trusted manufacturers of tools, equipment, and materials. The subject for each spotlight is available on our media guide at www.sheetmetaljournal.com and we welcome suggestions.

Finally, we are tossing around the idea of a Building Science column—something that looks at the chemistry, physics, engineering, or otherwise technical side of the materials we know and love. We have this lined up for our wall and ceiling magazine and I can tell you there are some unbelievably cool materials out there. Here's hoping I can drum up enough to bring this interesting new feature to the sheet metal industry as well.

And finally, I know you know what I am going to say ...

We need projects! You may have noticed we've reduced the project stories to more of a “spotlight” and less of a “fulllength, super-long, on-and-on feature” in an effort to make this opportunity more accessible to you busy contractors and specifiers. So if you have something on the go and five minutes to spare, send me the details and I will make it happen.

That's all for now, Folks. Happy spring! n SPRING 2014

sheetmetaljournal.com

Classroom Acoustics VAV Reheat vs Active Chilled Beams & DOAS: Part 2 Euro-Rite Cabinets: Built Right in Pitt Meadows SMACNA-BC Update Press Brakes & Notching Machines

Publications Mail Agreement # 40719512

Official Journal of Record for SMACNA-BC

Coming in the Summer issue of Sheet Metal Journal: • Training • Business Management • Hand Tools

SMACNA-BC NEWS SMACNA-BC Board of Directors Approves Envirotech Air Inc. and Nu-West Construction Products for SMACNA-BC Associate Member Status The SMACNA-BC board of directors is pleased to announce its approval of applications for SMACNA-BC Associate member status submitted by Envirotech Air Inc. and Nu-West Construction Products.

Envirotech was founded in 1989 as an Aercology dealer for British Columbia. Based in Delta, BC, the company serves the Lower Mainland and most centers throughout the province. It lists its major products as: • Dust Collection Systems • Welding Fume Exhaust • Mist /Smoke Collection (CNC) • Fans & Blowers • Scrubber and Spray Paint Booths Envirotech is located at 9 - 8207 Swenson Way in Delta British Columbia, V4G 1J5.

Nu-West's major products include: • Duct Insulation • Mineral Fibre Boards and Blankets • Pipe Insulation • Jacketing Systems • ABT Surface Drainage • Adhesives, Tapes, and Fasteners Nu-West Construction Products is located at Unit 190 - 6260 Graybar Rd., Richmond BC, V6W 1H6. For more information please visit the company online at www.nu-west.ca or contact Nu-West's technical sales representative Richard Mendoza at 604.288.7382 or at vancouver@nu-west.ca.

Both Envirotech Air Inc. and Nu-West Construction Products recognize SMACNA-BC's Associate member program as an important element for connecting company products, services, and people with the industry’s major specifiers, buyers, and decision-makers.

For more information about SMACNA-BC's Associate member program, please visit SMACNA-BC online at www. smacna-bc.org or contact the office at 604.585.4641 or smacnabc@smacna-bc.org. n

For more information please visit the company online at www.envirotechbc.com or contact Envirotech's official representative / manager, George Daschko, at 604.951.2330 or enviropc@telus.net.

Nu-West is about real, innovative solutions, built by an entrepreneurial team of disciplined professionals dedicated to the continuous improvement of products for the construction industry.

True relationships are at Nu-West's core and they consistently create and maintain them with every vendor and customer.

With thousands of products on the market today, they understand the complexity the industry is faced with and know what it is important—the success of their customers.

SPECIALISTS IN COATED AND UNCOATED SHEET METAL

ALL THE SELECTION

ONE SOURCE

Unlike companies who claim to be different, Nu-West has proven its difference by consistently providing new, innovative solutions to the construction industry, thereby enhancing the business and lives of its customers.

Nu-West offers industrial and commercial mechanical insulation, metal building and oilfield insulation, exterior insulation finish systems, concrete accessories and restoration, decorative concrete, and surface drainage solutions.

www.cmetals.com DELTA WINNIPEG

LANGLEY LONGVIEW

EDMONTON SEATTLE

CALGARY PORTLAND

BRANDON NAMPA

www.sheetmetaljournal.com • Spring 2014

7

The Learned Truth about

Classroom Acoustics

By Jessica Kirby

Dr. Lily Wang, PhD P.E. and professor at the Durham School of Architectural Engineering and Construction at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, conducted a two-year study of classroom acoustics to determine whether a relationship exists between noise levels resulting from building mechanical systems, and student performance on achievement tests.

Although previous research has confirmed that lower background noise levels (BNL) lead to higher speech intelligibility—essential in the learning process—Dr. Wang's research filled a gap in data correlating lower noise levels to improved student achievement scores.

She says the research could add incentive for building owners to make the investment into acoustic treatments in the classroom if the results indicated a positive correlation between reduced noise levels and learning success.

“People don't complain about classroom acoustics, so even though there is has been previous research to indicate the good that comes of it, it is difficult to convince people it is worth spending money on,” she says. “Now we have the student achievement data and did the statistical correlations that show louder background levels made the students perform less well in language and reading areas.”

8

Sheet Metal Journal

Higher BNL, which comes from many sources including adjacent rooms and hallways, flanking paths, mechanical systems, and external sources, also affects signal to noise ratio negatively.

According to a presentation Dr. Wang prepared for ASHRAE's Victoria chapter this spring, several variables and types and sources of noise affect learning. Speech intelligibility is important to the learning process, and because children are immature listeners compared to adults, minimum signal to noise ratios of +15 dB are required to achieve adequate levels of speech intelligibility.

Lower reverberation time (RT), or the time it takes for sound energy to decay in the room, results in higher signal to noise ratio and better speech intelligibility. Higher BNL, which comes from many sources including adjacent rooms and hallways through barriers, flanking paths, mechanical system type and placement, and external sources, also affects signal to noise ratio negatively. ANSI standard S12.60-2010 says BNL should not exceed 35 dBA in a classroom setting.

difficult to track because the classrooms used for the study were all equipped with good reverberation-minimizing materials to meet ANSI S12.60-2010 recommendations for RT. “ANSI says the maximum should be .6 or .7, and all of the rooms measured had that because of their acoustical ceiling tiles,” she says. “We had a sample of convenience.”

Conversely, most of the 125 classrooms failed to meet ANSI S12.60-2010 recommendations for BNL. Dr. Wang has also completed RT tests with adults in a lab setting, and the results indicated that reverberation time had a direct correlation with learning in English as a Second Language (ESL).

“In those cases, when the reverberation time is getting up to 1.2 seconds, native English speakers can compensate for that, but ESL students cannot,” she says.

At the end of the day it's building owners that need this type of information most, because they sign off on the designs, but, say Wang, they will benefit from expert advice on implementing the appropriate strategies. “Buildings are such a team-based thing; it's important to share that information.”

The study examined background noise levels in 125 unoccupied classrooms in Iowa and Nebraska with the mechanical systems activated. The classrooms were of closed floor plan design with typical room finishes including acoustical tile ceiling, thin floor carpet, and drywall or concrete (CMU) walls.

The student achievement test scores in math, language arts, and reading for students in grades three and five in Nebraska, and grade four in Iowa were averaged across classrooms and corrected for socio-economic variables.

Results indicated no significant relationships between RT and math or reading comprehension scores or between BNL and math scores. There was, however, a significant negative relationship between BNL and reading comprehension scores.

In fact, to reach the fourth grade state trajectory of 76 per cent proficient, a BNL of less than 41 dBA is required, say the study results.

Easy-to-use and accurate mechanical estimating software that can help improve both the speed and efficiency of your estimating process, and your company’s bottom line

Dr. Wang first took interest in the subject after having a second row view of the development of ANSI's acoustic standard and, like many others, was not buying in to the supporting data.

“Up to that point the research had been simplistic, like word recognition tests,” she says. “There was a void in the research and this kind of study would have helped connect it better.”

Wang's study also looked at echo and reverberation—which she feels have a direct correlation with learning, but were

www.fastest-inc.com 800.828.7108

www.sheetmetaljournal.com • Spring 2014

9

classroom acoustics

REMEMBER, AT FROST We Have You Covered ™

Frost is proud to announce our new partnership with Manson Insulation Products as a Full Line Distributor.

Please contact us for ALL your HVAC needs.

Remember, whether it’s to site or shop, Frost always offers free local delivery.

The best way to address reverberation and absorption, whether in a concrete or drywalled space, is acoustic ceiling tile or at least fabric-wrapped panels at the top of the walls, she says.

“They could also use double layer drywall versus single layer,” she says. “That makes a difference between rooms, and factors more on the background noise side.”

In her design recommendations, Dr. Wang also suggests reducing RT by keeping ceiling heights under 11 feet and ensuring adequate absorption via ceiling tile with an NRC of 0.75 or higher. Acoustic strengthening can occur at the walls, ceiling, floors, doors, and windows to meet STC 45-60 and CAC 30-35 and to address the multitude of variables affecting classroom BNL. Exterior noise shouldn't exceed 75 dB and fenestration should be adjusted with the more windows, the higher the wall-andwindow-STC. Reducing HVAC noise is also key, says Wang, suggesting specifiers select systems with low sound power and locating them away from classrooms.

19131 21st Avenue, Surrey, BC V3S 3M3 Phone: 604.535.7272 | Fax: 604.535.7279 Toll-free: 866.913.7678 www.frostinsulation.com | info@frostinsulation.com

10

Sheet Metal Journal

Using longer lengths of ductwork and laying out ductwork to reduce the impact of crosstalk offer significant noise reduction.

Both ductwork and diffusers should be sized appropriately.

“Treating metal ducts with duct liners or utilizing duct board can significantly reduce HVAC noise along duct paths,” says Wang. “When needed, additional low frequency noise attentuation can be introduced by the strategic placement of thicker (1-1/2” or 2”) duct treatments.” n

VAV Reheat vs Active Chilled Beams & DOAS: Part 2

By Jeff Stein, P.E., Member ASHRAE; and Steven T. Taylor, P.E., Fellow ASHRAE This article was published in ASHRAE Journal, May 2013. Copyright 2013 ASHRAE. Posted at www.ashrae.org. Used by permission granted to SMACNA-BC. This article may not be copied and/or distributed electronically or in paper form without permission of ASHRAE. For more information about ASHRAE Journal, visit www.ashrae.org.

Part 1 of this article appeared in the Winter 2014 issue of Sheet Metal Journal. Part 3 will appear in the Summer issue.

Understanding Simulation Results Further analyses of the designs reveal that the simulation results are not surprising.

Fan Power

As Figure 10 shows, the VAVR design uses less fan power than the ACB+DOAS design whenever the part load ratio (air­flow fraction required to meet the load) is less than about 83%, which is almost all of the time. The annual average airflow rate in the VAV reheat simulation was about 60% of peak flow, which explains why the VAV reheat design used less than half of the fan energy of the ACB+DOAS design.

Figure 10 also shows that even if the ACB+DOAS design had been reduced to 0.3 cfm/ft2 (0.14 L/[s·m2]) it would still use more fan energy compared to a VAVR system with an average annual flow rate of 60%. A primary airflow rate of 0.3 cfm/ft2 (0.14 L/[s·m2]) is about the lowest possible with an ACB+DOAS system to meet latent loads with the primary air and the sensible loads with the chilled beams. Furthermore, there is reason to believe that the 60% average part load ratio in the EnergyPlus model is probably unrealistically high.

The default ASHRAE schedules for office occupancy call for a nearly constant occupancy schedule of 95% and a nearly constant lights and receptacles schedule of 90%. ASHRAE Research Project 15157 suggests that realistic schedules are smaller than this and that a realistic annual average part load ratio for office buildings is closer to 40% than 60%.7 At 40%

(0.5 cfm/ft2)

VAV Reheat

cfm

30,000*

50,000

cfm/ft2

0.53

0.88

External Static Pressure

1.8

2.3

Internal Static Pressure

2.0

1.7

Total Static Pressure

3.8

4.0

Fan Efficiency

69%

69%

Brake Horsepower

26

44

*There was some confusion as to the primary airflow rate in the GSB ACB+DOAS design. 30,000 cfm (0.5 cfm/ft2) was used in the energy model but 36,000 (0.6 cfm/ft2) was used in the cost model. Had the energy model used 0.6 cfm/ft2 then the ACB+DOAS energy performance would have been slightly worse. Had the cost model used 0.5 cfm/ft2 then the ACB+DOAS costs would have been slightly better.

In both cases the difference is most likely “in the noise.”

Table 1: Design fan power.

100 90

Related to VAV Reheat Peak Power (%)

Table 1 shows VAV reheat design has about 40% higher fan power at design conditions than the ACB+DOAS design.

However, the ACB+DOAS fan power is constant at part load while the VAV reheat fan power goes down very quickly at part load (thanks to the near cube law relationship between fan speed and fan power).

ACB + DOAS

80 70

VAV Reheat ACB + DOAS (0.5 cfm/ft2) ACB + DOAS (0.3 cfm/ft2)

60 50 40 30 20 10 0 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 Part Load Ratio (%)

Figure 10: Supply fan power vs. part load ratio.

part load ratio, the 0.5 cfm/ft2 (0.24 L/[s·m2]) ACB+DOAS design uses six times as much fan en­ergy as the VAVR design and the 0.3 cfm/ft2 (0.14 L/[s·m2]) ACB+DOAS design uses four times as much. www.sheetmetaljournal.com • Spring 2014

11

VAV Reheat vs Active Chilled Beams & DOAS

Cooling Energy

In non-economizer conditions (outside air temperature > return air temperature), the ACB+DOAS design has a higher cooling load than the VAVR design because it has a higher outside air load (0.5 cfm/ft2 [0.24 L/(s·m2)]) compared to 0.15 cfm/ft2 [0.07 L/[s·m2]). In economizer conditions, the ACB+DOAS design also has higher mechanical cooling loads because it does not have an air economizer while the VAVR design does have an air economizer and thus benefits from economizer free cooling.

The ACB+DOAS design also has higher reheat/recool loads than the VAVR design because the fixed primary airflow rate (0.5 cfm/ft2 [0.24 L/(s·m2)]) and fixed supply air temperature (63°F [17°C]) mean the ACB+DOAS design is always providing about 6 Btu/h·ft2 (19 W/m2) of cooling even when the actual load is lower. The VAVR design, on the other hand, provides no more than about 3 Btu/h·ft2 (9 W/m2) at minimum flow, even if the supply air temperature is fixed at its minimum of 55°F (13°C). There­fore, the ACB+DOAS design has a higher cooling load under all conditions compared to the VAVR design.

In this building, all mechanical cooling loads are met by the campus central plant, so the cooling efficiency is the same for all three designs. Therefore, the ACB+DOAS design must

The ACB+DOAS design also has higher reheat/ recool loads than the VAVR design because the fixed primary airflow rate and fixed supply air temperature mean the ACB+DOAS design is always providing about 6 Btu/h·ft2 (19 W/m2) of cooling even when the actual load is lower. have higher cooling energy than the VAVR design; the loads are higher and the cooling plant efficiency is the same (or worse when pump energy is included). To take advantage of the warmer chilled water supply temperature required by the chilled beams, a medium temperature chilled water plant is required, preferably with an integrated water-side economizer.

One lesson learned from this analysis is that connecting to a 45°F (7°C) central plant loses all cooling efficiency benefits of medium temperature systems such as chilled beams or radiant cooling.

Heating Energy

Similar to cooling energy, the ACB+DOAS design has to use more heating energy than the VAVR design because the zone reheat load is higher, as described previously, and be­ cause the outside air heating load is higher. In the winter, the ACB+DOAS design must heat 0.5 cfm/ft2 (0.24 L/[s·m2]) of outside air while the VAVR design only has to heat 0.15 cfm/ ft2 (0.07 L/[s·m2]) of outside air, three times as much outside air load.

Also, as with the cooling loads, the heating loads are met by the campus central plant, so the heating efficiency is the same for all three designs. Therefore, it is not surprising that the ACB+DOAS model uses more than twice as much heating energy as the VAVR model. To take advantage of the reduced temperature hot water required by the chilled beams in heating mode, a condensing boiler plant is required. As with cooling, connecting to a conventional central plant loses all heating ef­ficiency benefits of chilled beams. Note that the VAVR design and the hybrid design can also take advantage of condensing boilers, but not to the extent of the ACB+DOAS design, be­cause they have smaller hot water coils.

Linacoustic® RC Fiber Glass Duct Liner with Reinforced Coating System

Now proven to be #1 overall in shop productivity and jobsite approval.* * A competitive product comparison study conducted and overseen by FMI, a management consulting firm to the construction industry, rated Linacoustic RC #1 overall by contractors who participated in the study.

CONTACT CROSSROADS C&I AT 800.663.6595 GREENGUARD® certification is not intended for residential environments. Instead, the certification is intended only for buildings meeting ASHRAE 62.1-2007 commercial building ventilation rates.

This certification is proof that the product meets the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute’s indoor air quality standards and product emission standards for VOCs.

ISO 9001 : 2008

12

Sheet Metal Journal

HVAC Cost Model crossroadsci.com

A major mechanical contractor used the DD level drawings of each design to

Total HVAC Cost ($) Total HVAC Cost ($/ft ) 2

VAVR

Hybrid

ACB + DOAS

1,371,000

1,980,000

3,341,000

25

37

62

279,703

576,496

Parameter Comparison Material Cost ($)

215,179

Labor Cost ($)

584,058

877,138

1,509,349

Equipment Cost ($)

319,695

380,297

608,118

Subcontractors ($)

252,067

442,862

647,037

Pounds of Ductwork

38,000 lb

33,224 lb

28,612 lb

Linear Feet of Chilled Water Pipe

310 ft

5,963 ft

10,244 ft

Linear Feet of Heating Hot Water

2,085 ft

2,330 ft

9,630 ft

Table 2: HVAC cost model results.

T

5). In the ACB+DOAS design, the hot water piping must run out to every chilled beam. The ACB+DOAS equipment cost is double the VAVR equipment cost. This is due pri­marily to the cost of the active chilled beams and to the added pumps and heat exchanger used for the secondary chilled water circuit. The ACB+DOAS subcontractor cost also is double the VAVR subcontractor cost. This is due to the higher controls costs (e.g., more chilled water valves, humidity sensors, etc.), higher insulation costs (for all that extra piping) and higher test and balance costs.

Many other potential costs are not included in these figures that could make the ACB+DOAS design even more expensive relative to VAVR. One example is seismic bracing for the chilled beams. General contractors have reported that they have been caught off guard by the amount of seismic bracing required for chilled beams and the resul­ tant impact on other utilities. Another potential additional cost is lighting.

The chilled beams take up much more ceiling space than conventional diffus­ers. This increases the cost of coordina­tion between mechanical and electrical trades and potentially the cost of light­ing fixtures. n PART 3 of this article will appear in the Summer 2014 issue of Sheet Metal Journal.

VAV Reheat Box

Cooling Only VAV Box

Spreading the Warmth...

Only Where it’s Needed

estimate the HVAC installed costs for each design. As noted previously, the cost of the return ductwork on the floors and in the return shaft in the ACB+DOAS design was not included in the cost estimate because return ductwork is not required for the ACB+DOAS design and was not included the other two designs. As shown in Table 2, The ACB+DOAS design costs more than twice as much as the VAVR design and the Hybrid Design is about half way between the other two. The ACB+DOAS design is so much more expensive that even if it OR PLAN LEVEL TWO 'A' used no HVAC energy at all it would still take 80 years to pay back the incremental first cost compared to VAVR.

SEE M2.02B FOR CONTINUATION

With cost efficient, innovative infrared heating solutions from Schwank

Figure 5: Typical HVAC floor plan for VAV reheat design.

duraSchwank

premierSchwank

ecoSchwank

With infrared heating technology, infrared waves pass through the air and warm on contact with people – no wasting energy heating the cold air in between.

Schwank has Radiant Tube and Gas Infrared Heaters for all home and business applications.

From the efficiency, economy and performance of ecoSchwank to the moisture-proof, efficient heating of duraSchwank Car Wash heaters, Schwank has you covered.

A

1'-0"

KEYPLAN 1/4 12" = 1'-0"

supraSchwank

patioSchwank

HEALTH SCIENCES GRADUATE STUDY BUILDING

HEALTH SYSTEM PROJECT 9558600 The cost breakdown in Table 2 sheds some light on the cost dif­ferential. The VAVR design uses 30% more sheet metal than the ACB+DOAS design, but the ACB+DOAS design uses 30 times more chilled water piping and five times more hot water piping. One reason the VAVR hot water piping costs are so much lower is because the VAV boxes are grouped close to the duct mains to minimize hot water piping (Figure

Contact us today for more information Burnaby Langley Victoria Chilliwack

M2.02A

604-420-4323 / 1-800-663-7684 604-530-9755 / 1-800-881-3226 250-361-3395 / 1-866-361-3226 604-702-4400 / 1-877-413-3226

www.eccosupply.ca

www.sheetmetaljournal.com • Spring 2014

13

Euro-rite Cabinets Built Right in Pitt Meadows Project owner: Euro-rite Cabinets 212 - 19100 Airport Way Pitt Meadows, BC Mechanical Contractor: Smith Sheet Metal Works Ltd.

I

Photos courtesy of Smith Sheet Metal Works

n 2013, Euro-rite Cabinets moved its facilities from Port Coquitlam where the company had occupied two different buildings to a new, 100,000-square-foot facility in Pitt Meadows, BC. The new facility houses the production area, warehousing and offices.

As part of the relocation, Smith Sheet Metal Works Ltd. fabricated and installed a number of systems for the new facility including a Donaldson Torit 40,000 cfm RF Baghouse dust collector, which is one of the most common in the woodworking industry for high volume, high dust applications.

The collector unit was 40’ tall and 14’ in diameter and weighed 26,000 lbs. This particular unit had a total of 484 – 8’ long filter bags inside of it.

“The main duct line was a 44” that split into two 30” main lines and then reduced through the plant to pick off the various

14

Sheet Metal Journal

An abort gate is located prior to the inlet of a dust collection system to prevent a flame or burning ember from entering the dust collection system. able to share knowledge and work with the customer to help things along.

“One of the largest issues with this project was the fact that we were trying to relocate an operating facility into a new location while trying to minimize the downtime,” says Smith.

“Even though there were new high-tech manufacturing machines installed, we still had to relocate a lot of the existing production machines and get them reconnected to the dust collection systems.

“Euro-rite's customer base barely noticed any issues with delivery during the entire cross over process.”

The plant is now in full operation and is one of the most state of the art cabinet companies in the province. n

wood working equipment in the shop,” says Aaron Smith, owner at Smith Sheet Metal Works.

Read more at: Smith Sheet Metal Works: www.smithsheetmetalworks.ca Euro-Rite Cabinets: www.eurorite.com

Smith Sheet Metal also fabricated a 46ӯ Heavy Duty Abort Gate, which is an important part of any duct spark or leak detection system, he adds. An abort gate is located prior to the inlet of a dust collection system to prevent a flame or burning ember from entering the dust collection system.

MEETING THE LABOUR NEEDS OF OUR INDUSTRY

BY DELIVERING QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL SHEET METAL WORKERS

“This method is used if extinguishment from the spark detection equipment is not adequate or not an option,” says Smith. “It also allows the customer to have a summer/winter option to reclaim heat in the winter and lower the energy consumption for heating.”

The building's make up air system is actually a recirculation system for the dust collector with a main line of 46”Ø and twin 36” air socks 80’ long. A 130’ long x 23’ wide spray booth houses the automated infra-red UV spray and curing line.

Dual Engineered Air, 10,000 cfm direct-fired, roof mounted make up air units for the spray line and two main duct systems down from the roof into large filtration supply systems inside the spray booth completed the installation.

The dust collector unit was so large, Smith Sheet Metal Works needed two cranes to get it off the tractor trailer and erect it.

The project owner preferred a hands-on approach to the installation, and the team at Smith Sheet Metal Works was

TRAINING C E N T R E S O C I E T Y The Sheet Metal Workers Training Centre Society’s mission is to provide the highest quality of training and upgrading to sheet metal apprentices and journeypersons in the Province of British Coumbia by delivering the highest standards of instruction and utilizing the most up-to-date teaching methods.

For more information Tel 604.882.7680 Fax 778.298.0656 or Email registrar@smwtcs.ca Check us out on the web at www.smwtcs.ca 19077 - 95A Ave. Surrey, BC CANADA V4N 4P3 www.sheetmetaljournal.com • Spring 2014

15

MANUFACTURER spotlight

Roto-Die Hydraulic Sheet Metal Press Brake

by Formtek

Roto-Die hydraulic sheet metal bending equipment is found wherever sheet metal is formed, and has made a name for itself in the commercial and residential manufacturing markets. The Roto-Die hydraulic sheet metal press brake is versatile and consistent, and carries a lower price point than automated solutions, making it an especially good fit for small and upand-coming shops. Its repeatability makes it ideal for short production runs.

The machine is as simple to operate as a hand brake, but has infinitely more production capacity. Most sheet metal configurations can be formed with just one handling, by one operator, and Roto-Die hydraulic press brakes are engineered to cut labour costs while shop productivity is increased.Â

16

Sheet Metal Journal

The Roto-Die hydraulic bender forms fulllength ducts, gravel stops, standing lock seams, flashing, and hemming operations accurately and economically.

Roto-Die hydraulic press brakes are capable of making accurate bends from 24 inches up to 12 feet in length.

Capacities range from 16 gauge down to 10 gauge steel. By shifting the selections lever, a single operator can perform all basic sheet metal forming operations, with no dies to change.

The ram may be jogged, stopped, or returned to “up” position at any point of the stroke. It may also be inched for accurate positioning of the work, reducing material loss and gaugeadjustment time.

Disappearing pins are conveniently located for fast one-person positioning in cross-braking (paneling) and rectangular duct forming. Pin gauges are easily removed and relocated.

The Roto-Die hydraulic bender forms full-length ducts, gravel stops, standing lock seams, flashing, and hemming operations accurately and economically. The compactness inherent in the cylindrical die design permits acute reverse bends not possible with conventional wide-bed machines.

All Roto-Die press brakes index quickly and accurately to all forming stations. Automatic detention assures positive die alignment. Centerline machined upper dies are instantly interchangeable in all Roto-Die openings without special stops or adjustments.

Accuracy is just as important as speed: Roto-Die's unique lower tool arrangement means operators can perform a variety of bends on one machine, and form thicker material including 10-gauge metal.

Operators can perform cross breaks, for instance, which typically require multiple angles between 90 and 180 degrees, and then move immediately on to the next stage in the bending process—essentially achieving two steps in one.

All Roto-Die hydraulic press brakes are equipped with depth-of-stroke adjustment with indicators, length-of-stroke adjustment, and motor and controls for 230/460 Volts, 3 Phase 60 HZ. Roto-Die hydraulic sheet metal benders have been a fixture in thousands of sheet metal shops for over 45 years. For more information please visit Formtek online at www.formtekgroup.com or call 216.292.4460. n

Business Manager & F.S.T. Assistant Business Manager

James Paquette Dan Burroughs

Business Representative

Greg Mooney

Business Representative

Ken Elworthy

6188 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5J 1H5 Phone 604-430-3388 or 1-800-242-8645 Fax: 604-431-1864 Email: agents@smw280.org

Quality Through Craftsmanship

101 Industries Ltd.

Serving the Commercial, Industrial, and Residential Sectors in Kitimat, Terrace, and Area Since 1968

Our services include:

Flat Roofing • Structural Steel Process Piping • Sheet Metal & HVAC Cladding • Fabrication Machining & Millwrighting Heating & Plumbing • Rental Equipment Call us today or visit our website for more information about our services and the professionalism we bring to every project.

245 - 3rd Street Kitimat, B.C. • P. 250.632.6859 • F. 250.632.2101

877.632.6859 • www.101industries.com www.sheetmetaljournal.com • Spring 2014

17

GLOBAL metal

The Coldest Spot in the Known Universe E

veryone knows that space is cold. In the vast gulf between stars and galaxies, the temperature of gaseous matter routinely drops to 3 degrees K, or 454 degrees below zero Fahrenheit.

It’s about to get even colder.

NASA researchers are planning to create the coldest spot in the known universe—inside the International Space Station.

“We’re going to study matter at temperatures far colder than are found naturally,” says Rob Thompson of JPL. He’s the project scientist for NASA’s Cold Atom Lab, an atomic ‘refrigerator’ slated for launch to the ISS in 2016. “We aim to push effective temperatures down to 100 pico-Kelvin.”

100 pico-Kelvin is just one ten billionth of a degree above absolute zero, where all the thermal activity of atoms theoretically stops. At such low temperatures, ordinary concepts of solid, liquid, and gas are no longer relevant.

Atoms interacting just above the threshold of zero energy create new forms of matter that are essentially ... quantum.

Quantum mechanics is a branch of physics that describes the bizarre rules of light and matter on atomic scales. In that realm, matter can be in two places at once; objects behave as both particles and waves; and nothing is certain: the quantum world runs on probability.

It is into this strange realm that researchers using the Cold Atom Lab will plunge.

“We’ll begin,” says Thompson, “by studying Bose-Einstein Condensates.”

In 1995, researchers discovered that if you took a few million rubidium atoms and cooled them near absolute zero, they would merge into a single wave of matter. The trick worked with sodium, too. In 2001, Eric Cornell of the National Institute of Standards & Technology and Carl Wieman of University of Colorado shared the Nobel Prize with Wolfgang Ketterle of MIT for their independent discovery of these condensates, which Albert Einstein and Satyendra Bose had predicted in the early 20th century.

If you create two BECs and put them together, they don’t mix like an ordinary gas. Instead, they can “interfere” like waves: thin, parallel layers of matter are separated by thin layers of empty space. An atom in one BEC can add itself to an atom in another BEC and produce – no atom at all.

“The Cold Atom Lab will allow us to study these objects at perhaps the lowest temperatures ever,” says Thompson.

18

Sheet Metal Journal

Photo credit: NASA/Crew of STS-132 | http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/gallery/images/shuttle/sts132/html/s132e012208.html

The lab is also a place where researchers can mix super-cool atomic gasses and see what happens. “Mixtures of different types of atoms can float together almost completely free of perturbations,” explains Thompson, “allowing us to make sensitive measurements of very weak interactions. This could lead to the discovery of interesting and novel quantum phenomena.”

The space station is the best place to do this research.

Microgravity allows researchers to cool materials to temperatures much colder than are possible on the ground.

Thompson explains why: “It’s a basic principle of thermodynamics that when a gas expands, it cools. Most of us have hands-on experience with this. If you spray a can of aerosols, the can gets cold.”

Quantum gases are cooled in much the same way. In place of an aerosol can, however, we have a ‘magnetic trap.’

“On the ISS, these traps can be made very weak because they do not have to support the atoms against the pull of gravity. Weak traps allow gases to expand and cool to lower temperatures than are possible on the ground.”

No one knows where this fundamental research will lead.

Even the “practical” applications listed by Thompson— quantum sensors, matter wave interferometers, and atomic lasers, just to name a few—sound like science fiction. “We’re entering the unknown,” he says.

Researchers like Thompson think of the Cold Atom Lab as a doorway into the quantum world. Could the door swing both ways? If the temperature drops low enough, “we’ll be able to assemble atomic wave packets as wide as a human hair; that is, big enough for the human eye to see.” A creature of quantum physics will have entered the macroscopic world.

And then the real excitement begins.

For more information about the Cold Atom Lab, visit coldatomlab.jpl.nasa.gov n Author: Dr. Tony Phillips | Production editor: Dr. Tony Phillips | Credit: Science@NASA http://science.nasa.gov/science-news/science-at-nasa/2014/30jan_coldspot/

TECHNICAL UPDATES Members: Reserve Your Free Copies of SMACNA's New "HVAC Commissioning" and "Sound And Vibration" Pubs Two new technical manuals are now available. As a benefit of SMACNA membership, members are eligible to receive a free copy of each manual in the format of their choice: book, PDF, or CD-ROM. Watch your email inbox for details and reserve your copy today.

“HVAC Systems Sound and Vibration Guide,” 1st edition SMACNA’s “HVAC Systems Sound and Vibration Procedural Guide,” first edition, details methods and processes that, when followed, provide repeatable measurement and verification of sound and vibration (S&V) levels. Instrumentation standards, sound measurement procedures, vibration inspection methods, and vibration measurement procedures are included in the guide.

This practical guide was written for trained sound and vibration testing supervisors and technicians. It also is a useful aid for both the inexperienced designer as well as those immersed in the industry in the development of project specifications for sound and vibration testing requirements.

Trained and experienced testing, adjusting, and balancing (TAB) technicians already have many of the requisite skill sets to conduct S&V testing. Historically, TAB work has been one of the last steps in the completion of a building. S&V measurements are taken after balancing has been completed.

This timeframe provides for a logical extension of TAB work directly into S&V measurement and verification.

Sound and vibration levels in commercial buildings first received serious attention from green building rating systems such as USGBC’s LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) initiative. LEED identified noise pollution as having a negative impact on occupant comfort.

Now, the new and emerging building codes are including requirements that mandate specific limits to sound and vibration so that occupied spaces are designed to meet these allowable upper limits of sound and vibration.

The guide serves a global audience as there is nothing inherent to the approaches provided that would limit their applicability to a particular climate or region of the world.

Prices: “HVAC Systems Sound and Vibration Procedural Guide,” 1st edition, 55 pages.

• Member—Book $13, CD $15, Book/CD Combo $20, PDF $13

• IFUS—Book $44, CD $53, Book/CD Combo $72, PDF $44 • Discount for architects/engineers*—Book $59, CD $70, Book/CD Combo $97, PDF $59 • List—Book $83, CD $99, Book/CD Combo $136, PDF $83 “HVAC Systems Commissioning Manual,” 2nd edition SMACNA’s “HVAC Systems Commissioning Manual,” second edition, is now available. This latest edition has been recognized as an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard and is the only ANSI HVAC Systems Commissioning standard to date.

It focuses on commissioning of the HVAC system from the pre-design phase through the occupancy phase. SMACNA still provides for three levels of commissioning, allowing the owner and contractor a number of alternatives to fit commissioning into any project type and size.

The new book also includes a chapter on LEED offering background information for those working on LEED projects regardless of their previous experience with LEED. It replaces older terminology, such as retro-commissioning, with current

PARAMOUNT SHEET METAL LTD.

QUALITY • DEPENDABLE CRAFTMANSHIP New and Retro Fit Construction Serving the Commercial Sheet Metal Industry for 33 Years!

2532 Davies Avenue, Port Coquitlam British Columbia V3C 2J9 Phone: 604-942-1611 Fax: 604-942-1453 craig@paramountsheetmetal.ca www.sheetmetaljournal.com • Spring 2014

19

TECHNICAL UPDATES terminology, such as commissioning of an existing building, as well as other updates to resources and technologies.

Spatial Coordination BIM Guide’s author: Your competition is not waiting for you

The new standard still advocates the benefits of contractordirected commissioning and involving the contractor as early as possible in the process. Many of the checklists found in the appendix have been updated and some new ones have been created. There are checklists for level 1 and level 2 commissioning for pre-start, start-up, and verification. A sample specification and example checklists are also part of the appendices.

David E. Quigley, author of the new SMACNA publication on BIM, “Achieving Spatial Coordination Through BIM: A Guide for Specialty Contractors,” represents an opportunity for specialty contractors to make better use of new technologies and practices associated with spatial coordination through the use of BIM digital data.

Prices: “HVAC Systems Commissioning Manual,” 2nd edition, 200 pages.

• Member—Book $14, CD $17, Book/CD Combo $22, PDF $14 • IFUS—Book $47, CD $56, Book/CD Combo $75, PDF $47 • Discount for architects/engineers*—Book $64, CD $77, Book/CD Combo $102, PDF $64 • List—Book $90, CD $108, Book/CD Combo $144, PDF $90 *The discounted price is available only to architectural and engineering firms and their employees (provided they are not in the contracting business as well.) n

SMWIA Local Union No. 280 /SMACNA-BC Partnership

The “Spatial Coordination” guide, available free, via PDF download, to all SMACNA contractor members, can provide a leg up on getting moving. It introduces contractors to everything from building a team and evaluating contract language, to how and where to begin implementation. Along the way, you’ll find dozens of practical examples taken from the real world.

While spatial coordination itself has been around for a while, today it requires collaboration with other project participants.

The seamless exchange of data is a must.

So where HVAC contractors once worried only about their own work, today you are, Quigley maintained, only as good as the weakest member of the project team.

In short, the game has changed.

Using BIM to your advantage

“Perhaps if you did a survey of specialty contractors, asking them if they use BIM, you’d come up with a number around 70 percent,” Quigley said. “But in reality, if you looked at how the contractors are making use of it, the real number— the contractors who understand how to use BIM to their advantage—might be 15 percent to maybe 25 percent.”

Here’s the good news: “If your company has yet to extend its spatial coordination capabilities beyond what it’s done traditionally and has not embraced the multiple usage of BIM data into its operations, it’s still not too late,” he said.

While it’s not too late, now would be a great time to start.

Why? “Your competition is probably not waiting for you,” said Quigley.

Contract specifications drive many to become involved with BIM, but most contractors ignore the extended value they can create for themselves using digital data (beyond CAD detailing).

Labour & Management “Embracing the Challenge” - B. Flaherty, Cornell University, Syracuse, N.Y.

20

Sheet Metal Journal

This guide is available free in PDF download to SMACNA members. Hard copies are available to members for $25, to non-members for $100. To obtain this ground-breaking guide, visit SMACNA’s Publications Store. n

IT'S THE LAW WHAT A TANGLED WEB WE WEAVE WHEN FIRST WE PRACTISE TO DECEIVE Homeowners, developers, and contractors should think twice before entering into a residential construction contract for the construction of a home with a planned illegal suite.

Deliberately deceiving the municipal authorities may impact a party’s ability to obtain court-ordered relief for monies owed under the contract. This risk was illustrated by the recent decision of the BC Supreme Court in Shafazand v. Whitestone Management Ltd.

Facts

Whitestone Management Ltd. (“Whitestone”) is a developer who was hired by a client to build a single family home in the City of Vancouver. Whitestone hired Competitive Quality Contractors (the “Contractor”) to build the home for a fixed price of $571,200 including taxes. The written contract provided for the construction of an illegal suite in the basement of the home following the City’s final inspection and issuance of its occupancy permit. To obtain a building permit, Whitestone submitted plans to the City that were deliberately altered to conceal the illegal basement suite. The Contractor was fully aware that the plans submitted to the City were misleading.

The Contractor eventually sued for $137,405.17 for alleged extra work. With a few exceptions, Whitestone denied that it owed the Contractor for the extras and countersued for $71,421.21, which Whitestone said it spent to complete the work under the Contract.

Issues

Should the court grant relief to either party where they have set out to deceive the municipal authorities?

Court Decision

Based on the evidence presented, the court held that the Contractor was entitled to recover $18,952.35 for extra work, but that Whitestone was entitled to recover $71,421.21 on its counterclaim. This resulted in a balance of $52,468.86 owing to Whitestone. The court noted that Whitestone would normally be entitled to judgment for this amount. However, the court went on to consider whether Whitestone should be entitled to recover this amount because it deliberately deceived the municipal authorities by submitting false plans to the City.

The court referred to an earlier BC Supreme Court case which also involved an agreement to construct a home with an illegal suite. In that case, the court considered the “illegality” doctrine.

Where an agreement is illegal due to the operation of a statute, the effect of the illegality may differ based on a consideration of, “the relative merits of the parties; the purpose of the statute

by / Ian Moes and Micaela Carlson Kuhn & Company

and the policy upon which it is founded; whether the statute contains the consequences of the illegality; and, whether a voiding of the agreement results in a defacto penalty that is disproportionate to the breach itself.” Ultimately, the court in the earlier case decided that it would be wrong to prevent the plaintiff from recovering the costs of construction to which it was entitled as doing so would have created a double benefit to the defendant, who would have been spared the additional costs of construction but also benefitted from the use of the illegal suite.

In the current case, however, Whitestone had already sold the home to the homeowner and had been paid for the illegal suite. In the court’s opinion, although it would be unfair to allow the Contractor’s claim without setting off Whitestone’s counterclaim against it, it would not be unfair to prohibit Whitestone from recovering the balance of its counterclaim.

The court held that Whitestone should not be rewarded for its dishonest conduct and that to deny Whitestone the benefit of the balance of its counterclaim would not be disproportionate to that conduct. As such, the court concluded that it would be against public policy to grant judgment to Whitestone for the balance of its counterclaim. The court dismissed the claims of both parties and ordered that they each pay their own legal costs.

Lessons Learned

Parties who contract for the construction of a project that contains an illegal element, such as an illegal suite, should be extremely careful. If they deliberately deceive the municipal authorities about the nature of the project, they may be denied court-ordered relief for monies owed under the contract. n This article was written by Ian Moes and Micaela Carlson, lawyers with the law firm of Kuhn LLP. It is only intended as a guide and it is important to get legal advice for specific situations. If you have questions or comments about this case or other construction law matters, please contact Ian or Micaela at 1-888-704-8877.

www.sheetmetaljournal.com • Spring 2014

21

INDUSTRY NEWS ASHRAE PROPOSES TO MOVE ALL RESIDENTIAL IAQ REQUIREMENTS TO STANDARD 62.2

Dwelling units of multifamily buildings of any height would fall under ASHRAE’s residential ventilation standard, 62.2, under a proposed change designed to provide consistency of ventilation requirements.

Currently, ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2013, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality, has responsibility for multifamily residential buildings four storeys or more, while ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.2-2013, Ventilation and Acceptable Indoor Air Quality in Low-Rise Residential Buildings, has responsibility for residential buildings three storeys and less.

“The Standards 62.1 and 62.2 committees are proposing scope changes that would result in the dwelling units of all multifamily buildings being covered by Standard 62.2,” said Paul Francisco, chair of the Standard 62.2 committee.

“Common areas would be covered by 62.1. This will provide consistency of ventilation requirements for dwelling units regardless of building height.”

For new construction, this will result in a change of requirements for dwelling units in four-plus story buildings.

For the retrofit market, this change will result in coverage by ASHRAE ventilation standards for the first time in four-plus storey buildings.”

The proposed changes are being made via addendum a to Standard 62.1-2013 and addendum g to Standard 62.2-2013.

The ventilation rates for dwelling units in Standard 62.1 are different from the rates in Standard 62.2, and this inconsistency has caused concern for some, according to 62.1 committee chair Roger Hedrick. Additionally, Standard 62.1 does not address modest retrofits whereas Standard 62.2 does.

“The retrofit market is a major user of ASHRAE ventilation standards,” he said. “This will allow for consistency across dwelling units and also allow application of ASHRAE ventilation standards to the multifamily retrofit market.”

Francisco agreed, saying, “Given the growth of the retrofit industry in multifamily dwellings it is important to ensure that these situations are covered in ASHRAE’s ventilation standards.”

For more information or to submit comments, visit www.ashrae.org. n

BIM CAN IDENTIFY AND “DESIGN OUT” SAFETY HAZARDS “Project preplanning” has always been important in order to follow an organized path to a successful project. In recent years, this fairly simple concept has grown into a popular tool to address safety and health in construction projects though the introduction of Prevention through Design (PtD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM).

PtD is the concept of identifying and removing occupational hazards early in the building design process and "designing” them out. Trends for safety include widespread use of guards for machinery, controls for elevators, and boiler safety practices. Enhanced design for ventilation in confined spaces, lockout/tagout controls, and fall protection also are in vogue.

Specific to fall protection, the concept of early intervention through design is being used as a companion to BIM. Using BIM to both identify fall protection hazards before building construction starts and add design features enabling safe and proper fall protection is a plus for everyone involved.

Adding fall protection design features into the design process, including BIM, allows for: • Proper communication of the fall protection details, including adding (and using) sound tie-off points.

• Early determination of the types of fall protection required.

• Obtaining required specialty items.

• Adequate training opportunities for all workers.

Simple safety ideas – such as designing appropriate parapet walls at roof level, placing engineer-designed tie-off points such as concrete-embedded straps or hooks, or building permanent OSHA-compliant guardrails – can save lives by addressing fall protection early in the process and not on an “as needed” basis.

Using BIM to visually show the fall protection specifications before the project is underway is the best method of communicating the design requirements.

To learn more about Designing for Safety, visit OSHA’s Design for Safety website.

For additional information on fall protection, prevention through design, and BIM, contact Mike McCullion, SMACNA’s director of safety and health at mmccullion@ smacna.org or (703) 995-4027. n

BCICA OFFERS QUALITY ASSURANCE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

The BC Insulation Contractors Association (BCICA) is currently advertising and promoting a Quality Assurance Certificate (QAC) program based on three key elements.

22

Sheet Metal Journal

ADVERTISER INDEX 1.

Only work performed by BCICA active (contractor) members is eligible for a QAC. BCICA expects its members to hire and support qualified Heat & Frost journeypersons. As part of the QAC requirement, mechanical insulation (MI) work must be supervised and installed by individuals holding a TQ or IP ticket.

Apprentices must be registered.

2. The materials used for the MI installation must meet a recognized ASTM or CAN / ULC standard for use in the QAC program. Acceptable standards are listed in the recently rewritten BCICA Standards Manual. Only products manufactured by BCICA Associate members are acceptable for use in a QAC specification.

3.

QAC work is independently inspected by purpose trained MI inspectors that observe and report during MI installation. A QAC can only be issued once the final inspection is complete with any deficiencies addressed.

BCICA has developed an online MI Inspection program consisting of four courses. Each course is designed to assist students to increase their knowledge of the MI industry. The first course focuses on materials used in the trade; the second focuses on MI installation techniques. The third course is to assist individuals with report writing and the final is a handson course held at BCIT in Burnaby, BC. The program is of interest to anyone working in the MI industry. The first two courses should be mandatory for anyone working in MI sales and distribution, MI manufacturing, as well as individuals tasked with providing technical guidance to specifiers. Currently, a list is being established for the next cohort. For more information please contact brian.bcica@telus.net. n

SMACNA-BC BOARD OF DIRECTORS REAPPOINTS MANAGEMENT TRUSTEES TO SEVEN-YEAR TERMS The SMACNA-BC board of directors is pleased to announce the reappointment of Len Mueller of Austin Metal Fabricators L.P. as SMACNA-BC Management Trustee of the Local 280 Pension Plan and Craig Benson of Paramount Sheet Metal Ltd. as SMACNA-BC Management Trustee of the Local 280 Health Benefits Plan.

Both Len and Craig have served as SMACNA-BC Management Trustees on their respective entitles since 1999.

The SMACNA-BC board of directors recognizes the outstanding job that these two individuals have performed throughout their tenure and have the utmost confidence that they, along with the other Management Trustees, Mark McLaren / Ridge Sheet Metal Co. / Pension Plan, and Tony Paris / Apollo Sheet Metal Ltd. / Health Benefits, will continue making the tough decisions required to maintain these two very successful plans.

Honorable mention of the rest of the Plan(s) Trustees: • Health Benefits • SMWIA Local Union No. 280: Jim Paquette, Richard Mangelsdorf, Greg McDonald • Management / Roofers, Eldon Donald, Coast Hudson Ltd. • Pension Plan • SMWIA Local Union No. 280: Jim Paquette, Paul Daniels, Terry Stark • Management / Roofers, Ken Hazzard, Campbell & Grill n

advertiser index advertiser

page

phone

17

877.632.6859

www.101industries.com

OBC

604.438.6616

www.bcica.org

Cascadia Metals

07

604.946.3890

www.cmetals.com

Crossroads C&I Distributors

12

800.663.6595

www.crossroadsci.com

ECCO Supply

13

604.530.9755

www.eccosupply.ca

FastEst Inc.

09

800.828.7108

www.fastest-inc.com

Frost Insulation

10

886.913.7678

www.frostinsulation.com

Paramount Sheet Metal

19

604.942.1611

e: craig@paramountsheetmetal.ca

Sheet Metal Workers Training Centre Society

15

604.882.7680

www.smwtcs.ca

17, 20

604.430.3388

www.smw280.org

SMACNA-BC

IFC, 05, 20

604.585.4641

www.smacna-bc.org

Winroc / SPI

04

604.430.3044

www.winrocspi.com

101 Industries Ltd. BC Insulation Contractors Association

Sheet Metal Workers Int’l Local 280

website

www.sheetmetaljournal.com • Spring 2014

23

Protect your investment.

Invest in energy conservation.

Commercial • Institutional • Multi-purpose • Industrial • Marine The members of the British Columbia Insulation Contractors Association, mechanical insulation experts, have led the industry for over five decades. Quality Standards for Mechanical Insulation Manual, published by BCICA, is the reference manual of choice for conscientious members of the design community uncompromised in their pursuit of energy conservation. BCICA is proud to introduce a new proprietary Quality Assurance Certificate program, designed to provide mechanical systems specialists with confidence that energy savings and investment potential are not undermined by value engineering.

BCICA contractor members – experts at “saving energy for the future” ADVANTAGE THERMAL Maple Ridge, BC 604 457 3190 advantagethermal@shaw.ca

COQUITLAM INSULATION LTD. Sechelt, BC 604 740 0086 coquitlaminsulation@dccnet.com

REMCO INSULATION LTD. Prince George, BC 250 562 5455 randyremco@shaw.ca

B.C. THERMAL APPLICATORS LTD. Nanaimo, BC 250 758 9712 bcthermal@shaw.ca

INDIAN HEAD CONTRACTING LTD. White Rock, BC 604 290 5407 ihcontracting@yahoo.ca

TIGHT 5 CONTRACTING LTD. Burnaby, BC 604 874 9615 brad@tight5.net www.tight5.net

NEW CENTRAL MECHANICAL INSULATION LTD. Langley, BC 604 514 8450 ron@newcmi.ca gary@newcmi.ca

WESTCOR SERVICES LIMITED Coquitlam, BC 604 519 6789 jodonnell@westcorservices.com bgibb@westcorservices.com

C & G INSULATION LTD. Kelowna, BC 250 769 3303 candginsulation@shawbiz.ca CARMIKE INSULATION North Vancouver, BC 604 988 4211 wjaeggle@shaw.ca COLUMBIA THERMAL SERVICES Langley, BC 604 534 6894 columbiathermal@telus.net

www.bcica.org

PACIFIC RIM INDUSTRIAL INSULATION LTD. Surrey, BC 604 533 8179 paul.smith@pac-rim.ca

info@bcica.org

WEST COAST INDUSTRIAL INSULATION Victoria, BC 250 384 4621 wcii@shaw.ca

brian.bcica@telus.net