EPS Magazine June 2017

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CONTENTS

PUBLISHER

Danny J. Salchert OFFICE MANAGER

Anita Salchert CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Derek Gaylard CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

Pam Fulmer CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jeff Jowett • Vince Miller Bryan Rupert • Marco Kristen

16 COVER STORY 6 A Brief History of the Insulation Tester

By Jeff Jowett

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT 14 Electrical Arc Flash Hazards

By Vince Miller

FEATURES 16

A Grounded Approach to Arc Flash Analysis

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MYTHBUSTER: The Truth About Recessed Lights and Fire-Ratings

By Bryan Rupert

By Marco Kristen

DEPARTMENTS 28 Industry News 34 Product Spotlights 40 Ad Index

PRESIDENT

Danny J. Salchert Executive and Advertising Offices 2009 Eagle Ridge Drive Birmingham, AL 35242 toll free: 800.981.4541 phone: 205.981.4541 fax: 205.981.4544 www.epsmag.net • danny@epsmag.net Electrical Products & Solutions™ is published twelve times a year on a monthly basis by ABD Communications, Inc., 3591 Cahaba Beach Road, Birmingham, Alabama, 35242, USA. Electrical Products & Solutions™ is distributed free to qualified subscribers. Non-qualified subscription rates are $57.00 per year in the U.S. and Canada and $84.00 per year for foreign subscribers (surface mail). U.S. Postage paid at Birmingham, Alabama and additional mailing offices.

Electrical Products & Solutions™ is distributed to qualified readers in the electrical contracting industry. Publisher is not liable for all content (including editorial and illustrations provided by advertisers) of advertisements published and does not accept responsibility for any claims made against the publisher. It is the advertiser’s or agency’s responsibility to obtain appropriate releases on any item or individuals pictured in an advertisement. Reproduction of this magazine in whole or in part is prohibited without prior written permission from the publisher.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ABD Communications, Inc., P.O. Box 382885 Birmingham, Alabama 35238-2885

ON THE COVER Photo courtesy of Megger

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Electrical Products & Solutions • June 2017

PRINTED IN THE USA

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cover STORY

Megger

A Brief History of the Insulation Tester

By Jeff Jowett

T

o paraphrase Gertrude Stein, an ohm is an ohm is an ohm…That is to say, the basic measurement technology has been in place, while vital improvements of various sorts have been added. Megohmmeters were among the first electrical testers, invented before the turn of the century…the 20th century, that is. The fundamental technology was easily recognized: apply a voltage, measure the current drawn, and apply Ohm’s Law. For a megohmmeter, the voltage must be high and so will be the measurement. The current to be measured is miniscule.

The Measurement: In electrical work, “flying blind”, though common, is not the way to go.

Knowledge itself is a tool, both for efficiency and for safety. Megohmmeters test

electrical insulation, of almost any kind and all types of equipment; wiring, cabling, motors, transformers, generators, electrical tools, et al. Proportion and magnitude are useful factors to understand. In general practice, a milli-amp may be the 6

Electrical Products & Solutions • June 2017

smallest unit of current encountered. But a megohmmeter must be able to measure down to nano-amps (0.000000001) and less. Converting to insulation resistance, the unit of measurement became the Megohm (1,000,000Ω). Continued on page 8

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cover STORY

Megger Continued from page 6

Early field testers typically measured to a Gigohm (1000 MΩ) or two. Pristine and well-maintained equipment could commonly be expected to over-range this, which on the original mechanical analog arc movements was represented by “infinity” (∞). This was not a measurement but an indication that the actual measurement was beyond the tester’s sensitivity; i.e., too small an amount of “leakage” current getting through the insulation for the tester to accurately measure. Nonetheless, “infinity” became established in practice as the desired test result, and many operators looked for little else. The pointer would peg sharply to the low end of the scale in response to routine charging currents and then quickly settle back to the rest position at “infinity” as the charging went to completion. The operator could breathe a sigh of relief and move on.

Some older testers could measure to high ranges, but they were primarily for R&D work; expensive, involved to operate and clunky, not very amenable to the

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demands and rigors of practical field work.

In recent decades, microprocessor technology has enabled measurement to the highest ranges in cost-effective, portable, rugged, and user friendly instruments easily adaptable to any application or environment. Insulation testers can now easily measure beyond the GΩ to the Tera-ohm (TΩ) range. Is this mere specmanship; “because we can”? No. Measurement has kept pace with the development of ever higher resistance values of insulating materials. This has far-reaching practical consequences.

In the latter part of the last century, insulating materials of huge cross-linked macromolecules were being hailed as nearly everlasting in service, but in some cases proved disappointing. Problems with extrusion in manufacturing of cable could leave voids that led to the wellknown “treeing” effects and regressive deterioration. The results were often popular on the 6 O’Clock News, with sparks pouring out of manholes, but hardly favorable

Electrical Products & Solutions • June 2017

with cable manufacturers and utilities!

More intense R&D produced superior insulating materials that began appearing around the turn of this century, hand in hand with heightened measurement capabilities into the TΩ range. The electrician or maintenance technician is not only able to perform effective and precise installation tests but also has a better diagnostic tool for troubleshooting. In addition, more effective trending of “good” equipment for predictive/preventive maintenance to head off trouble is enhanced by measurement ranges reaching all practical limits.

A number tells a lot more than an “infinity” symbol.

Features: The pioneering testers of long ago aimed at delivering an accurate and precise measurement, which they did, but often added little else. As reports came back from field workers of shortcomings and inconveniences, further development added more and more Continued on page 12

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cover STORY

Megger Continued from page 8

features. Popularly derided smugly as “bells and whistles”, these features can actually make the difference between an effective and efficient job and a lot of head scratching and gnashing of teeth. Be aware of what’s available and how it may benefit you.

A good example of recent development is in voltage control and selection. For a century, insulation testers offered only a few fundamental selections of test voltage; e.g., 100, 250, 500, & 1000. The operator often had to approximate the test voltage to the specs of the item under test (IUT). Now, if you want to test a 600V cable, you can set the voltage at exactly 600. This is an aid to customer/client satisfaction and to conformances dictated by industry standards, which are becoming more rigorous and demanding as technology in general advances. In addition, multiple voltage selection in tight increments provides the skilled technician with another tool, to closely monitor how the insulation responds to narrow increases in applied voltage.

Along with expanded test voltage options there has also developed tighter voltage control. Most electrical measurement is accompanied by an accuracy specification, nearly always expressed as ±. Therefore a measurement of 100 units, ±2%, might be anywhere from 98 to 102. This is standard. But insulation test voltage has always been held to a higher standard.

Rather than plus/minus, the minus side had to be zero. Test voltage could load up, but never down. Since the applied voltage determines the insulation’s response, you never want it to be less than what you asked (selected). If it rose a bit, no harm done; it’s on the side of the “good”, adding just a little extra “pop” to the test.

Why not apply precisely the selected voltage? Because it would add considerable cost to the technology with no meaningful benefit. But here too, recent advances in technologies, specifications and standards organizations’ regulation and oversight have created situations where a tight voltage window is much preferred.

Safety: Safety should always be first, but for emphasis, this article has saved it for last.

Put simply, insulation testers cannot kill you. But the item being tested often can!

Despite the high voltages produced, 12

megohmmeters operate at little power.

This is easy to see. They are made to test insulation. If insulating material passes more than a couple of milli-amps (mA) of current, it is no longer insulating. The item should be maintained, repaired or taken out of service. Megohmmeters operate with only a couple of mA. Since it is current that kills you, not voltage, and lethal current is somewhere around 50 mA, megohmmeters are traditionally not injurious. However, the item under test can store enough charge to kill you. This must be safely discharged before it or the test leads should be touched.

In bygone days, this could be a danger.

Hence, the industry rule of thumb was developed to discharge the IUT for 4-5 times the length of the test. Therefore, a polarization index (PI) test would be discharged with safety grounds for 50 minutes, meaning a total of one hour for one test. Instruments then appeared with a discharge button that engaged a resistive network in order to quickly and safely rid the IUT of static voltage. But a hurried operator under pressure to complete the job could easily forget. Today, such concerns need no longer exist. Quality testers automatically engage a discharge network as soon as extraneous voltage is sensed, and the discharge is monitored on the display. The operator safely stands back and watches.

Electrical Products & Solutions • June 2017

The same technology applies to the beginning of a test as well. Here the danger comes from accidentally connecting to a live line. All such connection is accidental, because insulation testing is never done live. But such mistakes were once rather easy to make. The pointer might start oscillating and the confused operator would often react by pressing the Test button. Bzzzzttt!!! The power board would be cooked, claims of “warranty” would not be honored when there was a 5 kV burn track between the terminals! No need now. A quality tester immediately senses extraneous voltage and displays it, accompanied by beeps and flashes to get the operator’s attention. Asleep at the switch? No matter; the input circuitry is blocked so that pressing the test button does nothing.

Modern instruments are on the leading edge of ease, convenience, efficiency and safety. Instructions always begin with safe testing, and this includes blocking off the potentially dangerous IUT and not touching it with test in progress. An instance was reported…fortunately resulting in no more than a surprise shock… where two operators were testing a large motor winding. One engaged the test button while the other was inside the winding. Perhaps good training is still the most valuable tool. ❏

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product SPOTLIGHT

Miller Safety Consultants

Electrical Arc Flash Hazards

By Vince Miller

I

N THE EVENT OF AN ARC FLASH, workers are exposed to tremendous amounts of energy in the form of a “blast” pressure, heat, light and toxic vapors such as copper and manganese.

Manufacturers of protective equipment have been developing and testing products to enhance the protection of workers exposed to this arc flash. Combinations of various types of cloth layering allows for our clothing to become lighter resulting in less heat stress on a workers body when working. The heat stress of wearing the additional layers of clothing causes a worker to tire easily.

One primary area is the head protection when required to wear a full hood for protection. By it’s design, visibility is greatly reduced to frontal vision only.

OTEX Protective, an innovative manufacturer of arc rated clothing, has developed a system to address the ventilation unit. Miller Safety Consultants, Ltd, as a distributor of their products offers this leading product. An arc-sensor has been added to their ventilated hoods. This unit detects the instant heat of the arc and opens the power source leading to the fan, eliminating the flow of toxic fumes into the breathing zone. This is standard on all of OTEX hoods. (Pictured below) This hood has a Velcro strip above the shield for additional task lighting of the work area to be installed. The output of the ventilation unit is 35 CFM. OTEX has introduced a Premium PPE Class 4, 40 Cal hood in May that incorporates a Milwaukee M-12 rechargeable

Having a semi-sealed unit, the oxygen level can be reduced due to the normal breathing of a worker and the lack of a ventilation unit.

Many manufacturers have been providing hoods with ventilation fans of various designs. These fan units do provide a flow of air, which does maintain a fresh source of air, prevents fogging of the faceshield and provides cooling to the worker allowing for less stress. Unfortunately, the hazards of toxic fumes entering the workers breathing zone may not be addressed.

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Electrical Products & Solutions • June 2017

battery pack as the main power source and a V5 fan system that provides 27 CFM of air flow with reduced noise. (Pictured below). This unit has the arc-sensor and comes with an Energizer task light. The battery pack does not increase weight of the hood, balance is maintained and testing resulting in 6 hours of run time between charges. The additional operating time is a key feature for many job functions.

All hoods have been arc flash tested to meet standards. The headlamp on the premium model was arc flashed to ensure it meets the arc test.

Miller Safety Consultants, in partnership with OTEX Protective is developing new PPE products for employee safety.

“Field” testing with electrical workers to obtain user input on the products is a key asset of our products. Our workers generate the challenges in our product development and testing to meet their work needs.

We take great pride in having these key partnerships.

Our warrantee and repair of our clothing products is one of our main assets.

Damage, although not common, does occur and we have been able to meet our customer needs for repair.

For more information visit our web site – www.electricalsafetysupply.com or call us at (703) 367-0404 for pricing of our products. ❏

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feature ARTICLE

Facility Results

A Grounded Approach to Arc Flash Analysis

By Bryan Rupert

E

VERY ARC FLASH ANALYSIS is not created equal. The only way to know that your organization is getting its money’s worth is to recognize the best features of a sensible arc flash analysis plan and the potential pitfalls of a plan that is not well thought out.

Work with a qualified contractor you trust The first rule of thumb is to pick a contractor you can be comfortable with over the long term. Right now you may only be concerned with getting an initial analysis done, but compliance is an ongoing requirement. That means every time your facility experiences a change to its electrical system, the NFPA 70E standard requires that all major modifications or renovation shall be updated in the analysis in a timeframe that is “not to exceed five years.”

The alternative to picking a long-term partner is orienting a new contractor every time you need to update your analysis.

Each time you work with a new contractor, you increase your potential for wasting time and money. Remember, not

every contractor sends out qualified electrical data collectors, and even when they do, the estimating part of arc flash analysis is not an exact science. That’s because

data collection points (aka: “points”) can be counted differently by each contractor.

One may be estimating based on counting every nameplate or where the label will be placed, while another only estimates for those points with protected devices.

The only way to be sure you’re comparing apples to apples when having the project quoted is to have a clear scope of work defined and a consistent definition of what is to be considered a point.

Assess the contractor’s plan for change management As you consider whether a particular arc flash analysis contractor is the right one for your facility, be sure to inquire about the contractor’s plan for managing change—in real time and over time. It’s not practical to hire a contractor to come in after the fact and document change every time it happens, and doing a “wallto-wall” system audit Continued on page 18 16

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feature ARTICLE

Facility Results Continued from page 16

every year can be very expensive.

That’s why many companies with defined change management programs find it easier to manage change as it happens.

To accomplish this, a facility should require as part of the scope of work for the new electrical installation that the installer must document and catalog all the required data needed for updating the analysis. So, for example, if a new industrial air compressor is to be installed, the facility should be proactive in requiring the installer to document and catalog such things as the wire size, wire length, fuse or breaker types or settings, etc.

This approach is very effective because making the documentation a required part of the final deliverable means that the job is not complete until the data is received.

And unless you’re an expert at analyzing arc flash data, another rule of thumb before giving the go-ahead to start the installation is to inquire up front about whether the installer is a qualified data Continued on page 20 collector. If the

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Facility Results Continued from page 18

installer is not, you need to have a contingency plan for making sure the data gets collected accurately.

Ask about the availability of cataloging software Qualified data collectors are even more effective if they arrive at your facility armed with a cataloging software program designed specifically for conducting arc flash analyses. Cataloging software is invaluable on three levels—for data collection, label installation, and change management.

Data collection: Good cataloging software will require and alert the data collector if all of the data is not collected for each point. This has an immediate positive effect in that it reduces the number of return trips the collector has to make by ensuring that complete data is captured the first time.

Label installation: State-of-the-art arc point and to generate a corresponding reChange management: And finally, flash data collection software provides the port so you have an absolute visual refer- any worthwhile arc flash data collection ability to capture photographs with each ence for where to install each label. software can be used Continued on page 22

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Facility Results Continued from page 20

to manage change. That way, it’s very easy for any qualified installer to document, for example, a new circuit that has been added, by simply recreating it within the software and answering the attribute prompts as they go. Remember, good software ensures that no data is missed.

Look for a contractor who can provide safety training for your employees Nowhere is it written that your arc flash analysis provider has to be a huge conglomerate to be able to provide valuable training on the NFPA70E safety standard.

In fact, you should expect that any fullservice arc flash analysis contractor can also provide training for your employees.

As you review their available training options, don’t settle for generic safety training; instead, consider a contractor who can provide safety training specific to your facility or environment.

A truly beneficial training program doesn’t rely on simply lecturing to your

addition, they should be trained in the practical application of protective measures, for example, how to properly operate and disconnect a switch, field test a voltage-rated glove, or inspect the arcrated gear.

When you consider all the different aspects that go into selecting an arc flash analysis contractor and the potential pitfalls that loom in the background if you do try to cut corners, it is easy to see why the best arc flash analysis contractors are more than just contractors—they are ofemployees about the OSHA regulations ten more like partners. ❏ or how the standards groups arrived at the calculations in a 70E analysis. Instead, the About the Author: Bryan Rupert best trainers—the ones who are worth (brupert@facilityresults.com) is what your organization is paying them— co-founder and lead consultant at will focus on the information qualified Facility Results, a Plymouth, MI, workers need to do their jobs efficiently company that designs and markets an and safely. For example, qualified workextensive collection of electrical ers need to be trained in reading and inreliability and safety solutions, terpreting all the information that appears including FlashTrack, the company’s on a best practices label and what that flagship software package for means in their specific environments. In performing arc flash analyses.

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feature ARTICLE

Tenmat

MYTHBUSTER:

THE TRUTH ABOUT RECESSED LIGHTS AND FIRE-RATINGS

By Marco Kristen

K

nowledge about the regulations

regarding recessed lights in firerated ceilings can help you avoid costly mistakes and legal actions.

There is to be a great deal of confusion about what exactly fire-rating means, where it is enforced and the solutions available to meet the building code. The widespread adoption of fire-rating codes throughout the United States has made this subject more and more relevant to contractors, builders, architects and homeowners. But instead of decreasing confusion over the issue, continuous changes in State legislations and increased demand for fire-rating code compliant products have far outpaced the availability of education on the topic.

What does Fire-Rating actually mean?

A fire-rating typically states the duration for which a passive fire protection system can withstand a standard fire resistance test. A fire rating is usually given to an assembly consisting of various building materials that can resist the exposure of a standardized fire exposure for a set amount of time, or may contain a variety of other criteria, involving other evidence of functionality or fitness for purpose. It was developed to evaluate the performance of building elements during an intense fire exposure and can be applied to a wall, floor, or roof system.

Municipalities across the United States require fire-rated ceilings, floors and walls for certain commercial or residential buildings. Most of the mandatory fire-rat-

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Electrical Products & Solutions • June 2017

ings occur in multi-story residential structures such as apartment buildings, hospitals or hotels. The rating affects ceilings separating the levels directly above and below a residence or office space. The 2015 version of the International Building Codes address this issue explicitly in section 714.4.1.2.

In order to meet this fire code, the ceiling must serve as an unbroken fire barrier for a certain period of time (the usual standard performance rating for 5/8-inch drywall material is 60 minutes); however this time requirement can be greater than one hour, depending on the municipality and application. For example, fire-rated assemblies in assisted living facilities, hospitals and hotels usually require a 2-hour fire barrier or even higher. This is very important to remember when selecting appropriate fire-rated solutions.

Continued on page 26

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feature ARTICLE

Tenmat Continued from page 24

Installing recessed fixtures in a room or hallway of these high-occupancy buildings and maintaining the proper fire-rating of the system can be a challenge, as cutting an opening in the ceiling to install the light fixture compromises the fire rating of the drywall ceiling. If the fire-rating of the ceiling membrane is not being restored, these openings in the ceiling would allow flames and smoke to spread in the unfortunate event of a fire. To maintain the fire code requirement for the building, the barrier must somehow be restored after holes have been cut for the fixtures. Expensive mistakes are often made when an airtight or “IC” fixture is assumed to be fire-rated.

IC-Rating does not stand for Fire-Rating IC-rated light fixtures were designed and tested for direct contact with combustible materials, including overhead structural material and blow-in thermal insulation. IC-rated fixtures have a thermal switching device that is set to trip if the shell of the fixture reaches 194°F. Cellulose blow-in thermal insulation has an ignition temperature of over 750°F. The thermal switch on the IC-rated light ensures that the fixture will not reach a temperature high enough to catch on fire.

The critical point is that “IC” only states that the fixture was constructed in such a way as to avoid starting a fire, whereas “fire-rating” addresses a fire barrier’s performance in the event a fire has already started and is in progress.

IC-rated light fixtures by themselves are extremely poor flame barriers. Most of them are constructed either from aluminum or light sheet metal that breaks down rapidly when in direct contact with fire and will not provide a flame barrier for any length of time. In case of a fire, the fixture will break down and the fire can now easily spread to the living space above. A fire-rated barrier will help to keep the fire contained, giving the residents additional time to escape. To meet the building code and to maintain the required fire-rating, non-fire-rated lights need additional fire protection.

covers are suitable for various recessed light fixture sizes and luminaires and widely accepted by inspectors and code officials throughout the entire United States. One and two hour Fire-Rated Light Covers are available from a variety of manufacturers at several different price points, and proven to act as a suitable fire barrier when called upon by fire and smoke To conclude, choosing the right recessed housing to accomplish the correct fire-rating is not as easy as many contractors or builders may believe. An “IC” label on a recessed light fixture does not imply that the light is also fire-rated.

Solving the problem Lighting professionals and consultants There are several different solutions for with experience in fire-rated environments fire-rated applications with a diverse range are the best source for suitable solutions of prices, approvals and complexity. and can help building professionals to A common solution is prefabricated avoid costly mistakes. ❏ Fire-Rated Light Fixtures, which have a variety of fire testing but are also the most Marco Kristen has been involved in the costly choice. passive fire protection industry for To avoid these expensive lights, many nearly 10 years and is currently serving installers construct boxes from drywall or as Marketing Director at TENMAT Ltd. sheetrock to surround the lighting fixture, The bilingual manager has gained but this is very labor-intensive and may significant experience in leadership, increase the cost of installation beyond discipline and teamwork during his budget limits. military service and later as a collegiate Metal enclosures are also becoming an athlete, playing Division 1 Football. increasing popular choice to the fire-rating Marco holds both a Bachelors of dilemma. However, these are not UL-clas- Science in Management and Marketing, sified and not suitable for every applica- as well as a Masters Degree in Business tion. with a focus in Finance and A UL-classified and very popular solu- International Business from the tion are Fire-Rated Light Covers. These University of Delaware.

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industry NEWS

The Future of Flat Rate Pricing: Business Seminar in California July 20th

The New Flat Rate to host The Future of Flat Rate Pricing seminar aimed at helping HVAC, plumbing and electrical service company owners understand the history and know the future of flat rate pricing

T

he New Flat Rate, the first ever menu pricing system created for residential home service companies, is hosting a seminar at Goodman Supply, in Corona, CA on Thursday July 20th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Our keynote speaker, Matt Koop will be shedding light on how customers of HVAC, plumbing and electrical contractors buy in today’s world and how they will buy in the future. Matt has been recognized as the “Top 40, Under 40” in HVAC The News in 2015. He is in trucks with technicians 26 weeks of the year across the U.S. and Canada coaching them to have a 100% close rate with double or triple the profits that they were making before.

If you are a contractor who wants to double and triple your technician’s service tickets without them having to even sell, we invite you to invest the four hours to attend this seminar. We only have 30 seats available so register for FREE to secure your seat.

Goodman Supply, is located at 1900 Compton Ave., Corona, CA 92887. To sign up or get more information for the seminar, contact Melissa Wirkkala at melissa@menupricing.com or 706.259.8892. ❏

About The New Flat Rate: The New Flat Rate, Inc. is the first

ever menu pricing system for residential service plumbing, HVAC and electrical contractors. This system has doubled and tripled the average service ticket for contractors across the United States and Canada, by customizing a menu of five options for each specific trade. The system literally removes the pressure of selling and upselling for technicians and enables the consumer to choose what is best for them.

For more information, visit http://thenewflatrate.com or call 706-259-8892.

IDEAL Networks Expands into Australia

I

DEAL Networks, manufacturer of data cable and network testers, has expanded into Australia, opening new premises in Melbourne to support its distributors, as well as data cable installers and network technicians.

The new facility in Melbourne, Victoria includes a product warehouse, alongside the customer services and finance departments, and the sales support team. There is also a training center, offering distributors and customers the opportunity to receive expert guidance on making efficient use of IDEAL Networks’ range of data cable testers, certifiers and network testers. The site will also ensure that installers and technicians across the country have access to local support for test, calibration and warranty repairs.

In addition, a new IDEAL Networks website is launching to make it easier for data cable installers, network technicians and IT managers in Australia to search for products and view extensive product information.

The website www.idealnetworks.net/ au/en will feature full details about the data

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cable testers, network testers and telecoms testers available, including animations that show how customers can troubleshoot more easily and provide proof of performance to their clients. Visitors to the website will also be able to benefit from support resources, such as product manuals, white papers, application notes, and all the latest news and social media updates from IDEAL Networks.

“This is the first time that IDEAL Industries Inc. has invested in premises in Australia,” explains Martin Van Os, Group VP / General Manager for IDEAL Industries Asia Pacific, who is based in Melbourne.

Electrical Products & Solutions • June 2017

With a wealth of international business experience, Martin was appointed in 2016 to help lead IDEAL’s strategy for long term growth in different global markets.

“At IDEAL Networks, we are always looking to make things as simple and accessible as possible for those using our products and services,” Martin continues.

“By extending our reach into Australia with new premises and an easy-to-use website, we will now be able to effectively meet the product needs of cable installers and network IT technicians across the country, while offering outstanding customer service.”

IDEAL Networks is a global manufacturer of innovative data cable testers and network testers to aid cable installers and IT technicians with troubleshooting and is part of IDEAL Industries Inc, which comprises of 9 companies trading across 6 continents.

For more information on IDEAL Networks visit www.idealnetworks.net.

To find out more about IDEAL INDUSTRIES visit www.idealindustries.com. ❏

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industry NEWS

Lighting Controls Association Partners with California Community College System to Offer Controls Curriculum

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he Lighting Controls Association LCA is a lighting industry sponsored ac- plete the Education Express program gain a (LCA), a council of the National Elec- tivity dedicated to promoting lighting con- broad and deep understanding of lighting

trical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), has announced a new partnership with the California Community College System (CCCS) to educate tomorrow’s electrical workforce about energy-saving lighting controls throughout California.

CCCS is the largest system of higher education in the nation, with 2.1 million students attending 113 colleges. This partnership aims to upskill an electrical workforce in support of California’s goal to dramatically reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions, notably in the area of lighting automation. The South Orange County Community College District’s Irvine Valley College established this partnership and led an initiative that provides access to industry-valued curriculum across all California community colleges.

trols through education.

LCA’s distance-education system, Education Express, offers more than 50 hours of free online instruction in lighting control technology, design, application and commissioning. Education Express courses are registered with the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Continuing Education System, National Council on Quality in the Lighting Professions (NCQLP), and the California Advanced Lighting Controls Training Program (CALCTP).

Under the agreement, CCCS will facilitate educator and student access to the Education Express curriculum via participating colleges. Initially implementing a pilot program, CCCS estimates students from as many as 60 colleges will ultimately enroll in Education Express. Students who com-

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Electrical Products & Solutions • June 2017

controls and qualify for CALCTP and CALCTP-AT training and certification.

“We are excited about this strategic partnership which enhances our technical career education mission for both new students and the incumbent workforce,” said Corine Doughty, Dean, Irvine Valley College.

“For nearly 20 years, the LCA has educated the public about controlled lighting,” said Gary Meshberg, LEED AP, LC, Chair of the LCA and Director of Sales for Encelium. “We’re very excited about this new partnership with CCCS to educate tomorrow’s electrical workforce in California.”

For more information about CCCS, visit www.CCCCO.edu. For more information about the Lighting Controls Association and Education Express, visit www.Lighting ControlsAssociation.org. ❏

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industry NEWS NAILD Unveils Advanced, Industry-Specific Lighting Training Innovative Designation Focuses on Customized Solutions, not Product Sales

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ighting professionals can now focus their expertise on specific market segments through its redesigned Lighting Specialist (LS II) program, the National Association of Innovative Lighting Distributors (NAILD) announced today.

Choices of market specialties include retail, industrial, office and educational facilities.

“Our newly revamped and innovative LS II program gives you a methodical, step-by-step process to help get to the same level of knowledge as someone who has been in the industry for several years”, NAILD President Robin Watt said. “You want someone who can look at the space and understand what the current needs are. You might work in an office that was designed and built in 1970 and used as a call center. Now the space has a different purpose and different lighting requirements. You don’t want someone to just sell you updated lamps.”

The systematic, self-paced, online LS II program includes five modules that all registrants must complete, followed by a choice of market specialty. A participant may choose to complete all four market segments and receive an LS II certificate or complete a single market specialty to earn either an LS R, LS IL, LS O or LS E certification.

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Electrical Products & Solutions • June 2017

The course includes workbook exercises, practical activities, field trips, quizzes and a final exam. Participants are encouraged to work closely with a coach. The market-specific portion includes creating a proposal for a client, with topics such as evaluation, schematic design and development, financial analysis and contract and bidding.

“The LS II program is about how to talk with customers, uncover what they need, what they value and then look at what motivates them to take action,” said program creator Paul Hafner, LC, who has worked in lighting and energy conservation for the past three decades.

“People in our industry are mostly in the product business,” Hafner said. “They’re focused on reducing the electrical spend.

That’s not what we’re trying to teach people with LS II. We’re trying to help people understand what lighting does and how it can help businesses reach institutional goals and boost profits.”

While lighting can represent 25 to 39 percent of a business’ total electrical costs, that is only a fraction of 1 percent of a business’ total operating budget, Hafner said.

For more information or to register for the LS II program, visit http://naild.org/training/ls-ii/. ❏

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new PRODUCTS AUTAC Inc AUTAC Inc. exhibited in booth 618 at the Connecticut Business Summit in Hartford on June 8, 2017. The Connecticut Business Summit was highlighting a myriad of businesses throughout the great state of Connecticut and as of press time AUTAC Inc. was the only retractile cord manufacturer on the floor. AUTAC Inc. was also serving as one of the show’s Platinum sponsors. If you would like more information about AUTAC products please contact us directly at sales@autacusa.com.

AUTAC Inc has been a premier manufacturer and distributor of retractile cords since 1947. They specialize in small quantity, custom, quality cords. Autac has NO minimum purchase even for custom cable. Autac manufactures 100% in the USA. For more information, visit www.autacusa.com

Universal Completes ESR Series of Electronic Sign Ballasts with Series-Wired Model Universal Lighting Technologies, Inc., a global leader in commercial lighting and a member of the Panasonic Group, will expand its ESR Series of electronic sign ballasts for magnetic replacement with the addition of rapid-start, series-wired ballasts. The ESR Series is a direct replacement option for magnetic ballasts in existing T8HO and T12HO illuminated signs.

The ESR Series sign ballasts increase the company’s comprehensive lineup of solutions for sign and outdoor illumination and offer another alternative for magnetic ballast replacement. For use in series-wired applications, the ESR Series ballasts provides superior lamp life even in cold-temperature environments.

Universal developed the ESR Series to fill a ballast replacement need left in the market due to energy efficiency rules from the U.S. Department of Energy that make traditional magnetic sign products obsolete.

“For facility managers who aren’t ready for a full upgrade to LED, Universal’s high-efficiency ESR Series is the fastest, easiest installation option to replace existing magnetic ballasts while complying with new regulations,” said Heath Martin, product management director of sign products for Universal Lighting Technologies. “We are excited to round out our popular ESR Series with the addition of the rapid-start series-wired ballasts.”

The ESR Series Electronic Sign Ballasts are designed for series lamp operation and wired for 4’ to 8’ of one-to-six lamps. The product features rapid-start operation, active power factor correction, universal input voltage (120 to 277VAC) and series lamp operation, along with a four-year warranty.

In addition to the ESR Series electronic sign ballast line, Universal offers two other solutions in its outdoor illumination continuum for replacing and upgrading magnetic products in existing T8HO and T12HO illuminated signs.

ESB Electronic Sign Ballasts in conjunction with a Wiring Block, a tool that assists the conversion of series wired magnetic ballast to parallel wired, instant start ballast, for improved efficiency and lamp operation.

LED Driver and LED Sign Tubes, a complete LED solution that is up to 80 percent more efficient than a traditional fluorescent system.

Universal Lighting Technologies offers a comprehensive line of sign and outdoor illumination products that are available throughout North America.

For more information, visit www.unvlt.com

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new PRODUCTS Atkore International’s ACS/Uni-Fab Offers Prefabricated Wiring Systems Save up to 30 percent on installation costs compared to conventional wiring methods ACS/Uni-Fab, part of the leading manufacturer of electrical products Atkore International, highlights their prefabricated wiring solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial lighting and power applications. Wiring components and devices are assembled to exacting standards in a controlled environment and delivered ready to install, significantly reducing the amount of labor required for installation. By making many of the electrical connections in the factory, the prefabricated products save up to 30 percent on installation costs compared to conventional wiring methods.

The prefabricated solutions are available for standard device assemblies for a variety of configurations and styles; and typical units, built to specification on a made-to-order basis. All prefabricated products are assembled and tested by IBEW personnel, taking advantage of a factory labor force and controlled environment. The products are UL Listed and intended for installation in accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC).

After determining exactly what components are necessary in each room, the ACS/Uni-Fab products are gathered, cut and pre-assembled, and labeled. The room is wired before the contractor gets to the site – contractors simply go to the specific location and screw in all required wiring assemblies and devices ACS/Uni-Fab offers contractors excellent materials management and just-in-time shipping, which eliminates the need for sourcing, staging, and assembly.

For more information, visit www.acsunifab.com

CBS ArcSafe® Introduces RSA-186 for Westinghouse Type ADM Disconnect Switch CBS ArcSafe®, a leading manufacturer of remote racking and switching solutions for low- and mediumvoltage switchgear, introduces its remote switch actuator (RSA) for the Westinghouse Type ADM disconnect switch. The lightweight, portable CBS ArcSafe RSA-186 allows technicians to remotely close or trip the Westinghouse load-break switch from a safe distance of up to 300 feet, well outside the arc-flash boundary.

Installation and operation do not require any modifications to the existing electrical equipment, thanks to CBS ArcSafe’s magnetic latching system. The RSA-186 is compatible with Type ADM disconnect switches. Typical applications include use as a disconnect switch in AC-power systems up to 5500 V, with or without fuses. When compared to other arc-flash mitigation alternatives, the RSA-186 is a cost-effective solution for keeping operators safe.

Optional features include radio remote with a range of up to 300 feet, 24 V DC LED light, wireless video camera system with LCD monitor, and rugged protective case assembly. All RSA units are portable, fast, and easy to set up; offer mechanical and/or electrical safety protection; are adjustable to fit unique electrical equipment configurations; reduce the requirements for personal protection equipment; and help customers with NFPA 70E arc-flash safety compliance.

All CBS ArcSafe products are manufactured in the United States at our manufacturing facility in Denton, Texas.

For more information, visit CBSArcSafe.com

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new PRODUCTS Tempo Introduces pr1meFX, the First-of-Its-Kind Linear LED Lighting System pr1meFX Delivers First Level General Illumination to a Space from a Cove Tempo Industries, LLC (Tempo), an award-winning manufacturer of configurable linear LED lighting systems, announces today the launch of pr1meFX™. This next generation linear LED system was designed to deliver over 85 percent of the light from a cove and provide the first level of general illumination to a space - indirectly. pr1meFX was designed to alter the approach to general illumination. This meant reimagining how the luminaire should be designed to optimize performance, improve building infrastructure and deliver superior quality light. This patent-pending system directs over 85 percent of the light out of the cove allowing it to graze across the ceiling and down into the space and provide better quality light than downlights or troffers. The light delivered from pr1meFX is luminous and visually comfortable with no glare or shadows. “I am confident that this system will forever change the way lighting designers and architects think about delivering a more ideal first level of illumination to a space while at the same time improving the building infrastructure and increasing overall efficiency,” said Dennis Pearson, Chairman and CTO of Tempo.

Tempo has a consistent history of ‘firsts’ over the thirty-one years they have been designing and manufacturing solutions for the lighting industry.

For example, Tempo pioneered the first configurable linear LED lighting platform called CLiPä which provides customers with extensive features and options to meet the most demanding application requirements. “pr1meFX is another Tempo first and with its ability to provide efficient indirect general illumination that is both discrete and effective, it has the power to be a real game-changer,” stated Terrence For more information, visit www.tempollc.com Walsh, President & CEO.

Klein® Tools Enhances Test and Measurement Line with 2 New Voltage Testers Klein Tools, for professionals since 1857, introduces two new voltage testers that use standard replaceable test leads for added convenience. The ET60 voltage tester requires no batteries as it measures AC/DC voltage up to 600V in electrical circuits, outlets, light fixtures and anywhere else AC/DC voltage testing is required. The ET250 voltage and continuity tester incorporates an LCD display, measures AC/DC voltage up to 600V and can test GFCI protected circuits. Both voltage testers have a tough meter design and are rated CAT IV 600V for safety.

ET60 Electronic AC/DC Voltage Tester • Measures AC/DC voltages up to 600V • No battery required, the device is powered by the applied voltage • Uses standard replaceable test leads for added convenience • Integrated test-lead holders on back position test leads appropriately for insertion into U.S. electrical outlets • Tough meter design is water and dust resistant, and can withstand drops up to 9.8 ft. (3m) • Rated CAT IV 600V for safety • Modern solid-state, low-impedance design ET250 Digital AC/DC Voltage and Continuity Tester • Measures AC/DC voltages up to 600V • Tests GFCI protected circuits with dedicated test mode • Uses standard replaceable test leads for added convenience • Features backlit LCD display for precise readings • Integrated test-lead holders on back position test-leads appropriately for insertion into U.S. electrical outlets • Integrated flashlight and backlit display for dim areas • Automatically powers on and selects the correct measurement mode when a voltage/continuity measurement is attempted • Tough meter design is water and dust resistant, and can withstand drops up to 9.8 ft. (3m) • Rated CAT IV 600V for safety For more information, visit • Modern solid-state design www.kleintools.com 38

Electrical Products & Solutions • June 2017

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advertiser INDEX

JUNE 2017

This advertisers index is compiled as a courtesy to our readers. While every effort is made to provide a complete and accurate listing of companies, page numbers and reader service numbers, the publisher is not responsible for errors.

Company AEMC INSTRUMENTS AMP LIGHTING AMTEC PULLING GRIPS AUTAC INC. BOLT STAR LLC CONDUIT RAT CONDUIT REPAIR SYSTEMS COPPER DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION DABMAR LIGHTING E-Z METER EMERGENT SAFETY SUPPLY FACILITY RESULTS GEAR ARC SAFETY GRADY RESEARCH, INC. HERCULES INDUSTRIES, INC. HIOKI USA

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RS#

IBC 2 30 45 29 20 11 11 20 50 39 25 4 6 19 15 20 49 32 47 21 16 22 43 31 21 37 24 40 51 IFC, 9, 25 1, 9, 18

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Company

PG#

RS#

KRENZ & COMPANY MEGGER MILLER SAFETY CONSULTANTS, LTD POWER & TEL POWERSIGHT/SUMMIT TECHNOLOGY, INC. RANDL INDUSTRIES ROLL-A-REEL SONEL TEST & MEASUREMENT INC. STARLINE STOUT TOOL TCP TENMAT INC. THE HOME DEPOT TIMCO INSTRUMENTS UEI TEST INSTRUMENTS UTILITY METALS

32 7, 35 BC 15 33 5 22 1 3 40 23 27 13 18 17 10

48 8, 23 3 13 22 7 44 4 5 52 17 19 12 40 14 10

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