EPS Magazine, August 2011

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CONTENTS

PUBLISHER

Danny J. Salchert OFFICE MANAGER

Anita Salchert NATIONAL SALES MANAGER

Jerry DiChiara jerryd@epsmag.net CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Derek Gaylard CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

John Olobri • Michael Daish Joe Bono • John Gavilanes

18

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

Pam Fulmer

FEATURES 6 Understanding Soil Resistivity Testing (part 2)

By John Olobri

PRESIDENT

Danny J. Salchert

18

Hot Stuff!

Power Monitoring on Live Circuits Can Be Done Safely

By Michael Daish

26

How Zero-Down Leasing is Changing the Solar Landscape

By Joe Bono

WHITE PAPER 12 The Importance of Oil Resistant Cables

By John Gavilanes

DEPARTMENTS 30 Industry News 36 Product Focus 48 Ad Index ON THE COVER Photo courtesy of Summit Technology, Inc.

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Electrical Products & Solutions • August 2011

Executive and Advertising Offices 3591 Cahaba Beach Road 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.

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PA PA RT RT 2 AR OF TI A CL E

FEATURE • AEMC® Instruments

2

Understanding Soil Resistivity Testing

By John Olobri, Director of Sales and Marketing, AEMC® Instruments

L

ast month we discussed the process of taking soil resistivity measurements. We chose the Wenner method as it is easiest to employ when measurements are taken at one or two depths. We took readings in 5 different directions in the area of interest (north, south, east, west and the diagonal inside the area. Then we took the average of the five measurements to calculate Rho (ρ) expressed in ohm centimeters or ohm meters. In our test example we arrived at an average of 6.408 ohm-meters. Converting this to ohm-centimeters we get a value of 6,408. It should be noted that this value of soil resistivity assumes a homogenous soil condition which may or may not be true. In either case the results will assist us in the next phase of our work. Knowing the soil resistivity can benefit you in two ways: First and the most often used of these values is to calculate the depth necessary to drive your ground rod or group of rods to achieve the desired system grounding resistance for the site being developed. Second, this value can also be used to determine the depth of an existing ground rod in order to properly test its’ effective resistance to earth.

Let’s look at the process of calculating the depth needed for a new ground rod installation. For this we will use a calculating tool called a nomograph (See sidebar on page 8).

To begin with we need to make a few decisions. First what is the desired grounding electrode resistance needed? Second what is the diameter of the ground rods we will

6

Figure 1

be using? With these two answers plus the measured soil resistivity we can use the nomograph to calculate the depth required to achieve our objective. Let’s say we need a resistance from this grounding system to be no more than 10 ohms and that we chose ground rods that have a 5/8 inch diameter.

Looking at our nomograph, we have five scales to work with: The R scale represents the desired resistance needed, for our work (10 ohms). The p scale represents soil resistivity. Our average value is 6408 ohmcentimeters obtained using a 4 pole ground resistance tester employing the Wenner test method. The D scale represents depth and is what we will use to find our answer. The K scale contains constants that will assist us in finding the depth. Lastly the DIA represents the diameter of the rods used. We will complete several simple steps to get our depth answer.

Electrical Products & Solutions • August 2011

Using the nomograph (available on the Tech Info section of the AEMC website) we first put a dot at 10 ohms on the R scale as it is our desires resistance.

Next we put a dot at 6,408 on the p scale representing our soil resistivity measurement. We will have to do our best to approximate the location of this point between the 5000 and 10000 hash marks.

Next we take a straightedge and draw a line between the dots we placed on the R and P scales and let the line intersect with the K scale and place a dot on the intersecting point.

Now we again take a straightedge and draw a line from the 5/8 hash mark on the DIA scale representing our rod diameter through the dot on the K scale and continue through to intersect with the D scale and place a dot on the D scale at this intersecting point.

Continued on page 8

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FEATURE • AEMC® Instruments The value at this point is the depth needed to drive a 5/8 inch diameter rod to achieve 10 ohms of grounding electrode resistance given the soil resistivity measured.

Looking at the completed nomograph in figure 1 we see that a single rod would need to be driven 30 feet deep to meet our 10 ohm objective. The completed nomograph is shown in the sidebar article.

In many cases this is not practical to drive deep rods. The alternative is to drive two or more rods to get the desired results.

There are a few important points to consider when driving multiple rods. First is that driving additional rods will not achieve linear results. For example three 10 foot rods will not yield the same results as a 30 foot rod. We need to apply an adjusting factor. Secondly to achieve the best effect of additional rods they should be spaced at least equal to the depth and preferably at twice the depth. For example Figure 3

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Figure 2

multiple 10 foot rods should be spaced 20 feet apart to avoid being in the sphere of influence of each other (See figure 2).

The adjustment factor required for multiple rods is shown in figure 3. If we were to use three 10 foot rods in parallel instead of one 30 foot rod we would expect each rod to contribute 1.29 times the theoretical value. Stating it another way, if we divide the 10 ohms needed by 3 to find the expected value of each rod we get 3.33 ohms. Applying the adjustment factor from the table for 3 rods in parallel we get 3.3 x 1.29 or 4.25 ohms contributed by each rod for a total of 12.75 ohms. In this case we would need to drive a fourth rod to get below our desired 10 ohms.

Sometimes the final results cannot be obtained by adding additional rods. There simply may not be enough real estate to accomplish it or the area is too rocky etc.

In these cases soil enhancement techniques can be employed or chemical rods

can be used. There are several companies that specialize in solving these types of problems that can be consulted.

Taking soil resistivity measurements prior to installing a grounding electrode system can save a lot of time and effort in planning the system properly. Using a few simple tools and procedures can give you quality results with less than one hour’s effort. Bear in mind that these results are based on homogeneous conditions that won’t necessarily exist at the site.

Further simplifying the task today is the fact that newer testers now have the ability to calculate soil resistivity internally computing Rho saving further time and effort. ❏ John Olobri is Director of Sales & Marketing for AEMC Instruments.

He can be reached by calling 508-698-2115; Fax 508-698-2118 or email jolobri@aemc.com

Grounding Nomograph A nomograph is a mathematical tool consisting of several nonlinear scales on which known values can be plotted and the desired unknown value can be derived by simply connecting the points with a straightedge and finding the resultant by reading the intersecting point on the desired scale. In the case of grounding resistance, we will be dealing with known values for soil resistivity, rod diameter and desired system ground resistance. The unknown to solve for is the depth needed to achieve the desired resistance. The grounding nomograph was developed in 1936 by H. B. Dwight. In six simple steps depth can be calculated when the soil resistivity, rod diameter and desired resistance is known.

8

Step 1

Step 4

Select the required resistance on the R scale

Place a dot at the intersecting point on the K scale

Step 2

Step 5

Select the measured soil resistivity on the P scale

Place a dot on the desired rod diameter hash mark on the DIA scale

Step 3

Step 6

Take a straightedge and draw a line between the values placed on the R and P scales and let the line intersect with the K scale.

Take a straightedge and draw a line from the dot in step 5 through the dot on the K scale from step 4 and continue through to intersect with the D scale and place a dot on the D scale at this intersecting point. This is the resultant depth needed.

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WHITE PAPER • LAPP USA

The Importance of Oil Resistant Cables

By John Gavilanes

Introduction The demands of the industrial environment are on going, with ever changing trends. Cables, which were once able to sustain functional and operational integrity a decade ago, would not be adequate to survive in the environment of a present day manufacturing site. Everywhere, from the Renewable Energy Industry, Automotive Assembly Plants, to the factories that manufactures small office machines and even in some commercial buildings, the oil resistance of cables has become increasingly important. Oils serve a dual-purpose role in industrial applications, both as a coolant and lubricant, depending upon the requirements mandated by the end use application. Sustaining trouble free cable operation under harsh chemical and environmental conditions reduces costly manufacturing down time and helps to eliminate or minimize periodic maintenance and costly cable replacement. All of these factors mentioned play a major role that is critical to a consistent, smoothly run manufacturing operation, which in the end, results in higher profit margins.

Regulatory and Code Changes With the changes to the National Electrical Code (NEC) in the past 10 years, protective conduit or raceway is no longer required when running an exposed run (-ER) cable from the tray to the equipment or device. Previously, when the cable was extended from tray to machine, conduit or raceway was used primarily as a protection mechanism in helping to prevent cable damage. Originally TC-ER cable (previously printed “open wiring”) had a length limitation of 12

50 ft. from the tray to the equipment. The 50 Ft. allowances resolved a large “grey” area in the industrial environment and was initially a well-received solution by the industry. Due to the overwhelming acceptance of the 50 ft. length allowance, the NEC committee enacted further changes shortly thereafter, permitting unlimited length of TC-ER under Article 336. With the advent of unlimited length, Article 336 also brought other issues, like a greater area of cable exposure and susceptibility to the surrounding industrial environment. Under the typical conditions of operation, consideration for factors such as ambient temperature, a cables mechanical strength, unintended movement and constant exposure to industrial lubricating and coolant oils must be taken into account. When exposed to these conditions, the cable inevitably will begin to deteriorate; the overall jacket may swell and/or crack, creating a potentially hazardous condition, along with machine and production down time.

These possible problems are undesirable and necessitate the need to implement cable protection measures. When referring to NFPA 79, the electrical standard for industrial machinery, Machine Tool Wire (MTW) is one type of cable permitted.

Under the standard for machine tool wire, UL 1063, passing the Oil Res I test is required and further severe testing such as the Oil Res II is optional. Environmental resistance tests, such as those per UL Standards were implemented in response to the globalization of industry with the goal of standardizing the oil resistance requirements of cables used in manufacturing industrial machinery throughout the world.

Electrical Products & Solutions • August 2011

Purpose and Application Why does oil cause such excessive damage on certain types of insulations and jackets and how does this occur? All compounds are not the same, for example, certain types of PVC have a higher degree of flame resistance, while others have better oil resistance, and some demonstrate improved flexibility characteristics. PVC formulations vary greatly, depending on the desired properties and applications. These properties can be achieved by adjusting the formulations of a particular PVC compound. The modification or addition of flame-retardants (iodine), stabilizers, and fillers allow the compound to exhibit these types of enhanced characteristics. However, when certain PVC characteristics are improved, the enhancement sometimes comes at a cost, the cost being that other performance traits are affected or completely lost.

The specific application will determine if oil is used as a lubricant and/or coolant.

Acting as a lubricant, oil would be applied to a gear system driven by motors to prevent premature wear down and insure smooth operation. Acting as a coolant, oil is applied during the machine lathing process to keep metal from becoming too hot. In the field, cables can be exposed to oil in a Wind Turbine nacelle, (the nacelle is the area located on the top of the turbine) where oil is used in the gearbox. Cables that lay in the floor of the nacelle are subjected to oil that is unavoidably spilled.

These cables are then exposed to oil for very long periods of time, along with other extreme high and low temperatures causing the lower quality jacket compounds of a cable to crack. There are many factors involved Continued on page 14

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WHITE PAPER • LAPP USA

Step 1: When process oils come in contact with PVC & Polyolefin compounds, the process oils are attracted to the plasticizers in the cable.

regarding how oil will attack wire and cable, such as, exposure, ambient temperature and also possible continued immersion. In general, increases in the amount of exposure, the frequency and the ambient temperature, the faster oil will start the deterioration process. In short, oil attacks the insulating compound, where it will become virtually ineffective in its primary role as an effective insulator. This action can create a possibly very hazardous situation, not only to human life, but also to the overall function of the industrial machinery to which it is connected. This results in very expensive downtime, costly repair and in the worst-case scenario, entire replacement of the machine.

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Step 2: The oils can be absorbed by a Polyolefin material resulting in swelling and weakening of the cable jacket.

Step 3: The oils can extract the plasticizers from PVC materials making the cable jacket hard and lead to failures.

Cracking – Caused during exposure of the PVC to oil or other chemicals due the complete removal of plasticizers, resulting in hardening and eventual cracking of the insulation and jacket.

Swelling – Caused during exposure of the PVC to oil or other chemicals due to migration of the oils into the plasticizer, resulting in noticeable increases in insulation and jacket diameter.

Melting – Caused during exposure of the PVC to oil or other chemicals due to the absorption and combination with the plasticizer, resulting in softening and the high elasticity noted in the compound.

Discoloring – Caused during the exposure of the PVC to oil or other chemicals due to the diffusion of the plasticizers along with colorant from the insulation and jacket.

The preceding pictures verify the damage caused by oil exposure is irreversible and creates hazardous conditions. Now, in addition to cable replacement costs, there

is also the expense of reinstallation to be taken into account. To avoid these types of unwanted scenarios, the customer must review the properties of Continued on page 16

What Happens All wire and cable insulations are not created equal. Electrical, environmental, mechanical, and chemical attributes will vary depending upon the individual compound formulations. Insulating compounds contain a specific amount of plasticizers in their individual formulations, which help promote flexibility and resistance to fatigue. When compounds are exposed to lubricating and coolant processing oils the material either absorbs the oil or the plasticizer will diffuse from the compound. When oil is absorbed, it causes severe swelling and softening of the compound resulting in degradation of tensile properties. When the oil causes diffusion of the compound plasticizer, hardening will result and all flexibility and elongation properties are lost. The attached pictures will illustrate the effects that oil can inflict on cable jackets and insulation: 14

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WHITE PAPER • LAPP USA

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Industry Oil Exposure Tests Method

UL Requirement

UL 62

Oil Immersion for 7 Days @ 60°C

75% retention of unaged tensile and elongation

UL Oil Res I

Oil Immersion for 4 Days @ 100°C

50% retention of unaged tensile and elongation

UL Oil Res II

Oil Immersion for 60 Days @ 75°C

65% retention of unaged tensile and elongation

UL AWM 21098

Oil Immersion for 60 Days @ 80°C

65% retention of unaged tensile and elongation

the cables they are about to consider for their application and determine suitability for the oil environment. There are UL tests, which help determine how a cable will react in the industrial oil environment.

These tests are more commonly referred to as the Oil Res I and Oil Res II tests, which involve continuous immersion of the cable samples in IRM 902 at elevated temperatures for a specified period of time. Passing results are determined by the evaluation of mechanical properties and observations of physical damage caused by the oil exposure. In 2000, Lapp as an innovator and leader, approached UL about creating tougher standards which resulted in the creation of AWM style 21098.The table below indicates the industry standard tests that are used to evaluate wire and cable oil exposure performance:

Example of Tensile and Elongation Test Methods Let us assume, for example, that the cable jacket of your product is going to be tested for compliance to UL Oil Res II. Tensile and Elongation tests must be performed both on the original (unaged) and oil immersed (aged) test samples and must be prepared as defined under UL Standard 2556. Die cut dumbbell specimens are taken from the jacket and are then tested for tensile strength and elongation.

As for sample preparation, two marks are applied approximately 1.3 inches apart from each other and equidistant from the center of the dumbbell sample. (See diagram on next page). These marks are applied at right angles to the direction of the 16

Conclusion

Name

pull in the testing apparatus. The sample is then clamped on the tester with one-inch marks outside of and between the grips.

The grips are then separated at the rate of 20 inches per minute until the sample breaks. Results are then recorded for elongation and pound force breakage; tensile strength is calculated by dividing the pound force by the cross sectional area of the specimen.

Die-Cut Specimen

Untested die cut samples are aged under the UL Oil Res II requirement of 75°C for 60 days. After 60 days, the samples are removed from the oil for a minimum of 16 hours. They are then tested for tensile and elongation, which must retain 65% of the unaged values. The following is an example for an Oil Res II test results:

The oil resistance of cables has now become a critical performance parameter when electrical contractors, engineers, and installers specify cables for end use application designs. The continued growing popularity of oil resistance requirements is due to changes in standard regulations and the increased performance characteristics that are mandated by certain industries: Renewable Energy, Automotive Assembly Plants and other production facilities. As time moves forward, superior oil resistant cables will become standard, rather than the exception and the demand for this type of operating performance will only continue to grow.

The Lapp Group is a family run company that provides cable products, not only in North America, but also throughout the entire world. We have established a laboratory in the US that is devoted entirely to the testing, research and development of wire and cable.

Brand new state of the art equipment provides the highest degree of accuracy and insures that all tests performed are compliant with the rigid performance requirements mandated by UL Standards.

The laboratory has attained acceptance to the UL Client Test Data Program.

This is a milestone that is unique in the wire and cable industry. The Lapp Group’s laboratory is another distinctive element, which helps to exemplify our commitment to providing products that are designed and tested to a higher standard. All of these factors show why Lapp is known as the leader in the wire and cable industry. ❏ John Gavilanes is the Director of Engineering at LAPP USA ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT. He can be reached by emailing LappUSAEngineering@LappUSA.com

Sample

Tensile Strength (PSI)

Elongation (%)

Tensile Retention (%) Pass / Fail

Elongation Retention (%) Pass / Fail

Original

3698

167

————

————

Aged

3625

129

98 / Pass

77 / Pass

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FEATURE • SUMMIT TECHNOLOGY, INC.

Hot Stuff!

Power Monitoring on Live Circuits Can Be Done Safely

By Michael Daish, Summit Technology, Inc, Walnut Creek, CA

Introduction Our modern technological world depends on systems and processes that require 24 x 7 x 365 operation. When their electrical infrastructures need maintenance it must inevitably be performed on live circuits. This article discusses a procedure to keep workers safe when performing “hot work”. NFPA 70E Article 130 FPN.2 discusses the justification for live work on “continuous processes” for “performing diagnostics”. Examples include start-up tests and trouble-shooting, verifying voltage quality, measuring circuit current loading capacity, and energy consumption studies. Here’s how to best to deal with the practical implications of complying with CSA and NFPA safety regulations to ensure success:

test equipment. The EHWAF must declare safety boundaries; the Restricted Approach Boundary, and the Prohibited Approach Boundary. No worker shall cross the Prohibited Approach Boundary – meaning no live work can be done beyond this boundary. The region between the Restricted Approach Boundary and the Prohibited Approach Boundary is where PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is mandatory. The form requires approval, usually by the facility owner (or manager) who approves and grants permission to perform live work, and authorizes designated workers. The form keeps safety awareness uppermost in workers minds, indicating arc flash hazard severity and and warns others of the proposed work. the required protective equipment should be present at the testing location. If no laEquip For Safety bel exists a qualified engineer must assess CSA Z462 and NFPA 70E require- what workers need to wear until a comments are in force for the protection of plete Arc Flash study is arranged. The folelectrical workers. Arc flash hazard labels lowing table is a guide:

Document the Testing An Electrical Hot Work Approval Form (EHWAF) must be completed first.

It is a work plan with a step by step job description for installing and removing Incident Energy From (cal/cm2)

Incident Energy To (cal/cm2)

Hazard Risk Category (HRC)

Clothing Description

Clothing Layers [1]

Required Minimum Arc Rating of PPE (cal/cm2)

0.0

1.2

0

Untreated Cotton [2]

1

N/A

1.2

4.0

1

FR Shirt & Pants [2]

1

4

4.0

8.0

2

Cotton Underwear + FR Shirts & Pant [2] [3]

1 or 2

8

8.0

25.0

3

Cotton Underwear + FR Shirts & Pant + FR Coverall [2] [3] [4]

2 or 3

25

25.0

40.0

4

Cotton Underwear + FR Shirts & Pant + Multi Layer Flash Suit [2] [3] [4] [5]

3 or more

40

[1] Layering generally gives more protection than the sum total of the ATPV values of the individual garments being layered. However, this needs tested for each specific garment being layered and thus is never explicitly included in layered calculations, Nomex fabric and layering FR clothing grants you some extra protection.

[2] Hard hat w/arc rated face shield + hearing protection + safety glasses (UV rated) + insulating gloves w/leather protectors + leather shoes.

[3] Sock Balaclava [4] Arc rated (25 cal) arc flash hood and 25 cal flash suit.

Continued on page 20 [5] Arc rated (40 cal) arc flash hood and 40 cal flash suit.

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FEATURE • SUMMIT TECHNOLOGY, INC.

Best practices endorse the “buddy system” i.e. having another worker to assist, confirm the steps being taken, and be close by in case of a mishap. In addition to the PPE above hard hats are required with amber-tinted face shields that will protect against blasts and radiation that can damage corneas. Hearing protection should not be overlooked either as blasts generate high pressures that can rupture eardrums. Safety boots need to be chosen carefully for electrical insulation, and using rubber floor mats is a prudent precaution. PPE also applies to the selection of tools so the meter or test instrument must be chosen with the appropriate CAT safety rating.

Hot Testing The following procedure from the EHWAF describes the steps to be followed when installing and removing a power monitor.

Continued on page 22

DETAILED JOB DESCRIPTION PROCEDURE TO BE USED FOR INSTALLATION OF POWER MONITORING EQUIPMENT: 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8

1.9 1.10 1.11

Complete Electrical Hot Work Approval Form (attached).

Inspect electrical equipment room to ensure it is free of potential fire hazards and flammable substances.

Stage safety equipment and have non qualified personnel leave the immediate work area.

Stage monitoring equipment.

PPE suit-up.

Remove electrical panel covers. Inspect for debris and obstacles to conductors.

Determine whether clamp-on probes are suitable or if flexible probes are need for tight and confined conductor access.

Perform IR scan to verity integrity of electrical connections.

Install test meter or monitor in the panel or enclosure where it can be safely left and remain undisturbed during testing and monitoring. Connect to voltage conductors using fused voltage probes, and place current probes around phase conductors. Insure that wires will not be trapped or disturbed when panel covers are replaced.

Connect monitor to a notebook PC or Netbook. (Preferably with a wireless-capable instrument.)

Verify correct monitoring configuration and voltage/current readings. Perform appropriate set up and programming. Initiate monitoring. Verify recording has begun before disconnecting PC. Replace electrical panel covers. (Note: If the monitoring equipment can not be placed entirely inside the electrical enclosure then the leads to the monitoring equipment will be brought out in a safe and protected manner and monitor should be secured.)

Install appropriate hazard/warning tape and signs indicating monitoring activity being performed and emergency contact information.

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Electrical Products & Solutions • August 2011

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FEATURE • SUMMIT TECHNOLOGY, INC.

Continued from page 20

DETAILED JOB DESCRIPTION PROCEDURE TO BE USED FOR REMOVAL OF POWER MONITORING EQUIPMENT: 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 OR

2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 2.9 2.10 2.11

Inspect electrical equipment room/work area to ensure it is free of potential fire hazards and flammable substances.

Stage safety equipment and have non-qualified personnel leave the immediate work area.

Station Safety Attendant and install Barrier Tape as required.

If using a wireless capable monitor connect monitor to laptop computer. Download and transfer monitoring data. if transfer of data is via a cable or memory card steps 2.5 to 2.7 must be done before 2.4 and before handling the testing monitor, connecting communications cable, or removing memory card.

PPE suit-up.

Remove electrical panel covers.

Perform IR scan to verity integrity of electrical connections.

Remove voltage probes, current clamps and power monitor as needed.

Replace electrical panel covers.

Remove hazard warning signs and barrier tape.

Repack monitoring equipment in carrying cases.

Before connecting the test meter, an initial inspection should note the condition of the panel, conductors, debris, and obstacles that would interfere with

safety. A thermographic scan with an IR camera will indicate hot spots due to loose or deteriorated connections that may cause flash-overs if disturbed. The

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Electrical Products & Solutions • August 2011

Safely perform testing via wireless from a laptop or an inexpensive Netbook PC.

presence of ozone odor may warrant an ultrasound test to locate corona discharges. Before any testing an assessment needs to be made Continued on page 24

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FEATURE • SUMMIT TECHNOLOGY, INC.

to rectify potentially unsafe conditions.

Distance is Safety Fact: Workers dislike wearing claustrophobic PPE. Vision is restricted by face shields, while thick gloves limit tactile feel and manipulation of tools. Plus,

Continued from page 22

it gets hot inside those suits - workers want relief! Thankfully, wireless technology has come to their aid. A new generation of monitoring instruments now incorporate wireless technology (Wi-Fi or Bluetooth) to allow testing remotely, up to 25 feet, from a notebook

PC, Netbook, PDA etc. Hoods, visors, and gloves can be removed allowing measurements and testing to be performed from a safe distance.

Verify the Data Verify the data integrity before leaving the site and make sure useful data has been captured by the monitor. If it hasn’t, it may be due to incorrect set-up, incorrect connections, or the monitor got disturbed and lost its connections during the test. To avoid wasted studies doublecheck the connections before monitoring by viewing a phasor diagram; errors become apparent immediately. The more intelligent meters automatically check connection errors and inform the user of missing signals or incorrect phase rotation errors.

To verify the data it may not be necessary to always remove the panel covers.

Sometimes enough RF leakage occurs at gaps in panels, so data transfer is possible with panel covers closed. If the panel is tightly sealed no wireless signal escapes, covers must be removed requiring PPE. Before leaving the site view the data on the notebook PC to make sure the downloaded data is good. A report can be generated on the PC to display log graphs and events. If the data looks good then the deinstallation of the meter can proceed and the tech can rest assured sufficient useful data has been captured for subsequent analysis.

Conclusion: A Safer, Better, User-Experience Electrical testing on live circuits must comply with CSA and NFPA safety requirements. By establishing a process, via a set of properly planned procedures as suggested above, testing can be performed on live circuits in complete safety.

Working on live circuits in PPE is daunting and uncomfortable. Using test instruments with wireless communications for remote control provides workers with welcome relief from wearing safety gear for long periods. With wireless-enabled test tools, workers are safer, more comfortable, and thus more productive.

Thanks to PowerCET Corporation for assistance with this article (www.powercet.com). ❏ FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 42 ON READER SERVICE CARD

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FEATURE • SOLAR UNIVERSE

How Zero-Down Leasing is Changing the Solar Landscape

By Joe Bono, CEO of Solar Universe

C

onsumer demand for energy efficient products and services has become mainstream. Federal and state-level tax incentives for businesses and homeowners have perpetuated demand, opening up a new market for electrical contractors wanting to transfer their skillset into the fastest growing energy sector in the United States – the solar industry.

The trade and skillsets of electrical contractors greatly overlap with the skillsets required for photovoltaic solar installation.

Once the fundamentals of solar installation are understood, contractors can capitalize on a greater, more diverse clientele and increase revenue. However, the introduction of zero down leasing by large solar companies is making it increasingly difficult for independent contractors to com-

26

pete for sales in the solar market.

What is zero down leasing?

Zero down leasing eliminates the $30,000 to $40,000 upfront price tag the average homeowner has to pay for a solar photovoltaic installation. The solar system is owned by a third party, which looks after the system’s maintenance, guarantees its performance, and insures it from theft or damage. There are no upfront costs for the homeowner and the cost of the solar lease is typically 10 – 30 percent less then what they are already paying for electricity.

How can contractors stay competitive?

Having access to certain financial products has become mission critical in many

Electrical Products & Solutions • August 2011

markets. This is the problem created for contractors and small businesses when something like zero down leasing becomes so popular.

Most solar integrators will not be capable of creating their own solar lease program. It’s complicated, requires months of legal work, lots of capital, and a certain fund size to make it all worthwhile. However, there some solar lease companies that exist to help contractors and small businesses stay competitive with financing.

Contractors can refer their customers to the separate solar lease company. The lease company provides the financing and the integrator gets paid a one time fee for EPC work (engineering, procurement, construction). Leasing companies are a good option for contractors who qualify to be part of the their programs.

Continued on page 28

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FEATURE • SOLAR UNIVERSE Usually this entails possessing a certain amount of liquid assets, annual revenue, and license and insurance requirements.

They will also look at your history of installing solar projects.

Keep in mind, the lease proposal, credit approvals, and equipment specifications all come from the solar lease company, not your own. Some contractors and small

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Continued from page 26

businesses feel this dilutes their own brand value.

Alternatively, contractors may want to consider joining a franchise network. Solar franchise networks have pre-arranged financing options, which are extended to all their partners. Support teams work with the franchise partners to ensure they’re offering the most competitive financing options available in each marketplace.

Franchise networks also allow contractors more purchasing power and integrated sales and marketing training, opening them up to the most competitive rates and best practices in the solar industry.

Since its inception into the US marketplace a few years ago, zero down leasing has become one of the greatest sales drivers for solar systems. Leasing makes purchasing a solar system much more economical for the average homeowner.

Solar experts forecast 60 to 70 percent of homeowners will opt for zero down leasing over the next five years.

Contractors wanting to capitalize on the growing demand for solar installations should keep apprised of their financing options. Financing, like the solar lease, will allow you to fully capture the demand in your market and compete with the larger competitors in the solar space. ❏ About Joe Bono, President and CEO Joe Bono started Solar Universe Network in 2008 because he saw renewable energy as one of the greatest opportunities for businesses and consumers to benefit from. With electricity rates rising faster than the rate of inflation, it was Bono’s vision to create a scalable solar panel company that could be grown into a nation-wide service brand. Now operating 24 franchises in seven states, Solar Universe is poised to expand across North America as the industry continues to grow at a rate of 50 % each year.

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Industry NEWS

Bridgeport Fittings Names Larry Beach Newest Member of Technical Sales Team Bridgeport Fittings, a leading supplier of quality fittings to the industrial, commercial and residential channels of the electrical industry, has named Larry Beach Jr. Technical Sales Manager.

In his new position, Larry will be responsible for training and coordinating with contractors, engineers, architects and end-users to gain specification position on present and future projects. Previously, he was a field sales engineer with the elec-

trical manufacturers representative, Hozack Inc. in Seattle, Washington.

“Larry is extremely well known and respected by all levels of the electrical industry in Washington State and Alaska where he’s been an outstanding sales professional,” said Rick Taylor, director of marketing, who made the announcement. “Bridgeport’s customers and partners will now benefit from this expertise and the added value he will bring to their projects. We are very pleased to have

Larry on the Bridgeport team.”

An industry veteran since 1980, Larry has held many positions in the electrical industry including electrician, operations manager, estimator and outside sales. He lives in the Seattle area with his wife and two daughters.

For more information, contact: Bridgeport Fittings, Inc., 705 Lordship Blvd., Stratford, CT 06615; Tel: (203) 377-5944; Fax: (203) 381-3488; or visit www.bptfittings.com. ❏

CoreSite Chooses Mitsubishi Electric Power Products’ Uninterruptible Power Supplies for Data Center CoreSite Realty Corporation has chosen Mitsubishi Electric Power Products, Inc. to provide Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) units for their 101,000 square-foot data center in Santa Clara, Calif.

CoreSite cited Mitsubishi Electric’s 9900B UPS series’ overall energy- and cost-efficiencies and flexibility as reasons for its selection. The data center was completed on July 21, 2011 and is the sixth CoreSite data center and colocation facility to feature Mitsubishi Electric UPS products.

CoreSite’s newest data center is the second of four planned data centers at the company’s Santa Clara campus. The first oncampus data center has posted an annualized Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of 1.4 since it opened in early 2010, and Mitsubishi Electric UPS products have contributed to its LEED Gold certification and Silicon Valley Power’s Energy Innovator Award.

The 9900B units’ 97 percent efficiency rating is expected to contribute to a projected PUE of 1.27 at the new data center.

“CoreSite considers the energy efficiency of its data centers to be of the utmost importance,” said Billie Haggard, senior vice president of data centers at CoreSite, a national provider of powerful, network-rich data centers. “Our Santa Clara data center campus will be one of the nation’s most energy efficient and Mitsubishi Electric’s 9900B UPS units are an important component in achieving our energy efficiency goals.

“Mitsubishi Electric Power Products worked closely with CoreSite to provide custom UPS solutions that deliver optimal reliability, efficiency, and capacity management to our data centers.”

“Mitsubishi Electric’s 9900B UPS offers the most efficient, on-line double conversion in the industry at all load levels, with up to 97 percent efficiency at unity power factor,” said Dean Datre, general manager, Mitsubishi Electric Power Products UPS division. “We are happy to help CoreSite realize maximum return on its investment, and look forward to being its UPS provider of choice.”

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Electrical Products & Solutions • August 2011

CoreSite had many UPS options from which to choose and after extensive research the Mitsubishi Electric 9900 Series proved to be the best fit for the project. In addition to its energy efficiency, design and price, Mitsubishi Electric’s reputation for responsive, personal and easily accessible service factored into CoreSite’s decision.

About Mitsubishi Electric Power Products, Inc. Headquartered in Warrendale, Penn., Mitsubishi Electric Power Products, Inc. is the US subsidiary of Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, responsible for serving the North American power systems, rail transportation and water treatment industries with electrical and electronic products, systems and services. To learn more visit www.MEPPI.com. Within Mitsubishi Electric Power Products Diamond Vision division markets large-scale video displays for stadiums and arenas, including the Guinness World Record-holding display at Cowboys Stadium. To learn more, visit www.diamondvision.com.

About CoreSite CoreSite Realty Corporation (NYSE: COR) delivers powerful, network-rich data centers that optimize, secure and interconnect the mission-critical IT assets of the world's top organizations. More than 600 customers, including Global 1000 enterprises, cloud providers, financial firms, and Government agencies, choose CoreSite for reliability, service and expertise in delivering customized, flexible data center solutions. CoreSite offers private data centers and suites, cage-to-cabinet colocation, and interconnection services, such as Any2, CoreSite's Internet exchange.

The company's portfolio comprises more than two million square feet, including space held for redevelopment and development, and provides access to over 200+ network service providers via 12 data centers in seven key U.S. economic centers.

For more information visit www.coresite.com. ❏

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Industry NEWS

Acuity Brands Expands Indoor Ambient LED Lighting Portfolio with Lithonia Lighting VTLED Luminaires

exceptional value. The robust design with a classic aesthetic is versatile, making VTLED ideal for office, retail, education and healthcare environments.

VTLED smart luminaries are embedded with nLight™ technology. This plug-n-play VTLED luminaries are embedded with Acuity Brands nLight™ intelligent functionality can be configured to achieve controls, enabling end users to significantly reduce energy savings energy savings virtually immediately. and increase return on investment.

Smooth continuous dimming functions are Acuity Brands (NYSE: AYI), a market ronmental footprint. It is also an economical standard. leader in innovative energy efficient light- solution for any project’s budget.

VTLED is available in 2’x2’ and a 2’x4’ ing and control solutions, is expanding its “The VTLED is the perfect complement configurations. For more information, visit indoor ambient LED lighting offering with to the Lithonia Lighting indoor ambient www.lithonia.com/VTLED. ❏ the launch of the Lithonia Lighting VTLED LED product line, giving customers an even volumetric luminaire. VTLED is a high- greater selection and flexibility when specFor more information about quality, volumetric LED fixture designed ifying high-quality LED lighting,” said Acuity Brands high-quality LED for general purpose applications. They join Dave Ranieri, Acuity Brands Vice Presilighting and controls, please visit the RTLED, ACLED and TLED recessed dent and General Manager, Lithonia Lightwww.acuitybrands.com. You can also LED luminaires that launched last year. ing Commercial Indoor Products. become a fan of Acuity Brands Factory-enabled with Acuity Brands (www.facebook.com/acuitybrands) nLight™ intelligent controls interface, VTLED and Lithonia Lighting VTLED delivers high-quality ambient VTLED is a high quality, high perfor(www.facebook.com/lithonia) on white light for general illumination appli- mance LED fixture for ambient applications Facebook® and follow Lithonia cations while reducing energy consumption, and general-purpose illumination. It features Lighting on Twitter® at maintenance costs and a building’s envi- intelligent controls and flexible design at an http://twitter.com/lithoniaLED.

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Product FOCUS

Compact Limit Switches Available from AutomationDirect AutomationDirect has expanded its limit switch line to include the AEM2G series compact limit switches. The switches feature 35 mm wide die-cast housings and are equipped with one normally-open and one normally-closed contact; all units include a three-meter cable. The IP67-rated series utilizes standard 25 mm hole spacing and a wide variety of head actuators is available. Almost all actuator styles are available in both snap-action and slow-make/slow-break contact versions. Prices for AEM2G series compact limit switches start at $24.

For more information, visit www.automationdirect.com/limit-switch

Legrand/Pass & Seymour Plugtail™ Sensors Combine Energy Savings and Speedy Installation for Optimal Productivity Legrand/Pass & Seymour (P&S), a leading provider of electrical wiring devices and home systems, announces its latest innovation in PlugTail™ wiring devices – the P&S PlugTail Sensor. These devices help contractors be more competitive on projects while offering facilities a safer, energy-efficient solution.

P&S PlugTail Sensors offer an energy-saving solution that meets today’s efficiency standards, with the same speed and consistency as any P&S PlugTail device. Simply connect the prestripped P&S PlugTail Sensor connector leads. It’s easier than traditional pigtailing, doesn’t require a wire caddy, and the polybag keeps the connector free of dirt, dust and joint compound until trim-out.

At device installation just click in the connector, and tighten the mounting screws. It takes less than a minute – three times faster than a conventional device installation – and with consistent connections every time. This saves time at the end of the project, when every minute counts.

“P&S takes pride in offering the most complete line of factory-terminated wiring devices, including spec and hospital grade receptacles, G-F-C-Is and tamper-resistant receptacles,” said Steve Rood, Marketing Manager – Commercial and Industrial Products. “Now we’re offering the benefit of energy-saving devices, to meet growing efficiency needs and make it an easy upgrade to any facility.”

The P&S PlugTail wiring device family provides the fastest, most consistent, most reliable installation solutions for hospitals, colleges and universities, offices, retail and entertainment venues, and hospitality and multi-dwelling facilities. All P&S PlugTail devices meet Federal Specification requirements and are trade agreement compliant.

P&S PlugTail™ is a patent approved product by Legrand/Pass & Seymour.

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Product FOCUS T&B® Fittings Stainless Steel Form 8 Conduit Outlet Bodies Provide Superior Corrosion Protection Safeguards Electrical Systems in Harsh Environments T&B® Fittings Stainless Steel Form 8 Conduit Outlet Bodies from Thomas & Betts are constructed of polished, marinegrade Type 316 stainless steel, providing protection for electrical systems in harsh environments. Type 316 stainless steel provides high resistance to corrosion, chemicals and high temperatures, while delivering strength and durability for a long service life with low maintenance.

“When coupled with the rugged Form 8 design, the use of Type 316 stainless steel allows these conduit outlet bodies to provide superior performance in tough, corrosive environments,” said Bogdan Diaconescu, product manager for Thomas & Betts. “T&B Fittings Stainless Steel Form 8 Conduit Outlet Bodies provide an excellent solution for protecting electrical systems in food and beverage, pharmaceutical, petrochemical and pulp and paper processing operations, as well as wastewater treatment facilities.”

T&B Fittings Stainless Steel Form 8 Conduit Outlet Bodies are available in body shapes LB, T, TB and the recently introduced LU® Universal Conduit Elbow, with hub sizes ranging from one-half inch to two inches. Tapered NPT threads and integral bushings protect wire insulation. Neoprene gaskets are rated to a maximum temperature of 105 degrees Celsius (221 degrees Fahrenheit). T&B Fittings Stainless Steel Form 8 Conduit Outlet Bodies are shipped complete with covers, gaskets and screws included.

For more information, visit www.tnb.com

RSK-185 Roto-Skinner from Seatek Company Seatek Company, which pioneered the labor saving Roto-Split to cut armored cables has introduced a new model in its Roto-Skinner line. The Patent Pending rotary cutting RSK-185 was designed especially for armored umbilical cables used on underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). The same tool can also have applications for cables subject to great stress, such as oceanography research or mining operations.

These cables usually are constructed with outer steel strands made of high strength steel wires. To make an electrical or fiber optic connection several feet of these multiple strands must be removed. This operation can be performed with hand tools, however because of the large number of wires to be cut it is extremely time-consuming and great caution must be taken to prevent damage to the cable core.

This cordless cutting tool is powered by 18V lithium-ion batteries. Clamp the RSK185 over the cable and rotate it around the cable make perfect ring-cuts. A specially designed pre-set concentric stop, coupled with the abrasive wheel penetrating mechanism allows the operator to safely reach the proper depth of cut stop thus preventing core damage.

The Roto-Skinner is a great labor saving product simplifying armored cable preparation and preventing possible injuries while using manual tools.

For more information, visit www.seatekco.com/rsk-185.htm

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Product FOCUS The KBT Wire Basket Tray Clip is an easy-to-install, time-saving solution for securely attaching wire basket tray to strut. Simply place the basket tray on top of the strut, position the KBT clip over the tray at the desired position, squeeze the KBT and slide it in place to finish the connection - it’s that simple!

The installation is completed without the need for tools or additional hardware. The clip fits tray wires from 4 mm to 8 mm (3/16” to 5/16”).

The KBT Wire Basket Tray Clip is another timesaving solution designed to help the construction industry complete projects faster, easier and more efficiently.

For more information, visit www.erico.com ERICO is a leading global designer, manufacturer and marketer of precision-engineered specialty metal products serving niche markets in a diverse range of electrical, construction, utility and rail applications. The company is headquartered in Solon, Ohio, USA with a network of sales locations serving more than 25 countries and with manufacturing and distribution facilities worldwide. ERICO’s well-known brand names include: CADDYR electrical and mechanical fixings, fasteners and supports; CADWELDR welded electrical connections; CRITECR surge protection devices; ERICOR rail and industrial products; ERIFLEXR low voltage power distribution; ERITECHR facility electrical protection; and LENTONR concrete products.

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Product FOCUS Greenlee’s New FishFinder™Plus Vision System Offers Industry-First CAT-IV Rated 4-foot Optical Cable Greenlee, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) now offers a new FishFinder™ Plus Vision System offers the electrical marketplace’s first patent-pending CAT-IV 600V / CAT-III 1000V 4foot (1.2m) long obedient optical cable as part of its new optical inspection camera system.

The new FishFinder™ Plus Vision System is designed for use around energized circuits in obscure spaces to speed installation, inspection and troubleshooting work for electrical and communications wiring professionals.

“The new FishFinder™ Plus Vision System is the first of its kind on the market for electrical and communications wiring professionals who need to do their work in energized environments,” said Ryan Berg, Greenlee Senior Product Manager. “We designed this camera system with the safety of the end-user in mind, as no one else in the market today has a patent pending CAT-IV rated, which is the highest safety rating, optical cable for inspections around energized circuits.”

The FishFinder™ Plus Vision System is designed for checking production equipment, switch gear, junction boxes and other devices that are not de-energized, as well as looking in spaces too small for direct access.

The cable’s double layer cable coating provides an orange outer layer and yellow under layer to provide easy visual indication of dielectric performance. The cable cannot be used around energized circuits when the outer layer is worn away. The optical cable can be fully submerged under water for troubleshooting when needed. The optical cable head is also resistant to water vapor, abrasion, common chemicals and has good impact resistance.

The product operates on four AA alkaline batteries and the operating time at half LED intensity is three hours.

For more information, visit www.greenlee.com

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Product FOCUS Appleton Introduces Versatile Tray Cable Connectors Connectors add value by accepting wider range of cable sizes, Certified for use in IEC and NEC applications Appleton, one of the world's largest manufacturers of products for hazardous location electrical systems, recently introduced a versatile line of tray cable connectors engineered for use with TC, ITC, PLTC and other commonly-used types of tray cable.

Key to the success of the new connectors is a compensating displacement seal that provides ingress protection to NEMA 4X and IP68 standards, allowing use in highly caustic or harsh environments such as food processing, petrochemical, wastewater treatment, pulp and paper or chemical manufacturing facilities. The connectors also feature a seal insert that lets each gland terminate the broadest cable range available in a single hub size.

Manufacturered in aluminum, stainless steel and nickel-plated brass, the new connectors offer a wide continuous operating temperature range of -60°C/-76°F to 110°C/230°F and come in trade sizes ranging from 1/2-inch to 4-inches. NPT threads are standard, while metric is available as an option. Other options include an adaptor/reducer and earth tags.

Ratings & Classifications: • cCSAus; IECEx; ATEX Certified • Class I, Div 2, Groups A, B, C & D • Class I, Zone 1 AEx e and Ex e, where permitted by code • Class II, Div 2, Groups E, F, & G • Class III, Div 1 & 2 • NEMA: 4X • IP66/67/68

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For more information, visit www.appletonelec.com

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Advertiser INDEX 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

PG#

RS#

Company

AEE SOLAR AEMC INSTRUMENTS AMERICAN TECHNICAL PUBLISHERS ARPI OF USA BYTE BROTHERS CALIFORNIA TURBO CONDUIT REPAIR SYSTEMS CONTINENTAL CONTROL SYSTEMS, LLC COPPER DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION DH SOLAR ERICSON MANUFACTURING COMPANY EXTECH INSTRUMENTS/FLIR SYSTEMS E-Z METER GARVIN INDUSTRIES GENERATOR INTERLOCK TECHNOLOGIES GENSCO HERCULES INDUSTRIES, INC. HIOKI USA ICC KRENZ & COMPANY LAPP USA MEGGER

11 IBC 28 44 24 45 4 42 29 32 41 3, 9 44 39 7 22 48 15 17, 21 46 10 1

11 2 43 48 42 30 6 47 20 45 28 5, 9 49 26 8 41 52 13 14, 16 50 10 4

MH RHODES/CRAMER COMPANY MINUTEMAN UPS NABCEP NORTHWEST LIGHTING SYSTEMS PG LIFELINK PHASE-A-MATIC QUICK MOUNT PV SCHNEIDER RENEWABLES SCHOTT SOLAR SOKKIA SOLAR UNIVERSE SOUTHWIRE COMPANY STEELMAN INDUSTRIES STRIP-TEC SUMMIT TECHNOLOGY, INC. SUNWIZE TECHNOLOGIES TASK LIGHTING UNDERGROUND DEVICES UTILITY METALS VERVE LIVING SYSTEMS YOKOGAWA CORPORATION

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PG#

RS#

32 25 34 31 IFC 46 40 13 19 5 35 33 42 20 23 37 48 27 47 BC 43

44 18 23 21 1 51 27 12 15 7 24 22 46 40 17 25 53 19 31 3 29

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