Engineered Systems articles from September 2007

Engineered Systems archives from September 2007

More file cabinets: are not the answer: there's no going back. Data center impact is expanding, and our solutions need to do the same.(Editor's Note)(Editorial)
September 1, 2007... "It is not possible to manage what you cannot control, and you cannot control what you cannot measure." That's Peter Drucker, as recently quoted by the Uptime Institute (www.uptimeinstitute.org) in a follow-up opinion to the EPA's recent...

Upcoming ES events.(Conference news)(Calendar)
September 1, 2007... SEPTEMBER 25-27 ES Building Automation & Sustainability Conference BACnet International Conference Phoenix. For more info, visit www.buildingautomationconf.com.

Calendar of events.(Calendar)
September 1, 2007... SEPTEMBER 25-26 Women In HVACR 4th Annual Meeting Women In HVACR St. Louis. For info, visit www.womeninhvacr.org. OCTOBER 1-5 "The Commissioning Process In Practice: An Intensive Project-Based Course For Providers" University of...

Helpful hints.(Back 2 basics: based on Cx-3 ATCIFPT software)(usage of Energy simulation software)
September 1, 2007... Refer to this month's "HVACR Designer Tips" checklist for project closeout, as well as the "Application Checklist" for scoring the MDF room packaged HVAC unit/system. Energy simulation software is probably not used for determining the...

New rooftop data center puts UTHSC on top of computing needs.(Case In Point)(University of Texas Health Science Center)
September 1, 2007... The University of Texas Health Science Center (UTHSC), located in downtown Houston, brings together multiple branches of UT's health departments including dental, medical, nursing, and more. Approximately 2,600 graduate students are enrolled at...

Air curtains draw comfort to the masses at McCormick Place.(Case In Point)
September 1, 2007... Deciding whether air curtains were cost efficient for the many huge loading dock door openings at Chicago's new $850 million McCormick Place West convention center addition was an easy decision. When officials of the Metropolitan Pier and...

Power and cooling systems gives 'Jaws' sharper teeth.(Case In Point)
September 1, 2007... The Maui High Performance Computing Center (MHPCC) stands at the forefront of high-performance computing and provides more than 21 million hours of computing time annually to vital defense and scientific R&D and test programs. Part of the...

Simon says: load shedding goes to the mall.(Case In Point)
September 1, 2007... Simon Property Group, Inc. (SPG), headquartered in Indianapolis, is a real estate investment trust engaged in the ownership, development, and management of retail real estate, primarily regional malls, Premium Outlet centers, and community/...

How much of a good thing? Deciding to retrocommission is just the first step.(Commissioning)(Column)
September 1, 2007... Last month, this column addressed the question of what type of buildings make good candidates for retrocommissioning. This month, I want to cover the retrocommissioning process itself. Just like new construction commissioning, it is very...

Opportunity overload? As markets and chances for improvement grow, don't miss the forest for the trees.(Building Automation)(Column)
September 1, 2007... My last column talked about the $900 billion market opportunity that was identified for the industry to make the national electrical grid smart and wise with interactive connectivity. From an article on the AutomatedBuildings.com website...

Commissioning and project closeout for main distribution frame (MDF) room packaged HVAC unit/system.(HVACR Designer Tips)
September 1, 2007... Equipment type: CACU-1 Equipment designation: Packaged HVAC unit Barcode designation: 111111 Area served: MDF room Equipment location: In occupied space BASIS OF DESIGN * Review and confirm design intent has been met....

Main distribution frame (MDF) room packaged HVAC unit/system.(Application Checklist)
September 1, 2007... Published as part of "Back To Basics" and "HVACR Designer Tips" for July through September 2007. The following system analysis and analytical scorecard can be used to assess the use of computer room air conditioning units (CACU) for this...

Mission critical building automation.(BAS Inc.)
September 1, 2007... From BAS control panel wiring to network configuration, what we have here is a concise but thorough overview of what sets the BAS design and process apart in these special applications. Effective controls in this category require a different...

Setting new benchmarks.(Company overview)
September 1, 2007... Elodrive provides user-friendly actuator solutions for the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning industry. Not content with meeting industry standards, we set new benchmarks for actuation technology by bringing together the knowledge and...

Going with the (variable) flow: after years as a commonplace solution across the Atlantic, variable refrigerant flow systems are starting to establish their presence and value, in North America. After a quick primer on the thinking behind the technology, one firm shares their experiences and lessons so far in working with VRF.(Mazzetti & Associates (San Francisco))(variable refrigerant flow system)
September 1, 2007... Considering a new HVAC system? A variable refrigerant flow system (VRF) is one additional alternative that should be added to the option list. VRF is most widely used in air or water cooled heat pumps or condensing units with heat recovery. The...

Optimizing power usage effectiveness in data centers.(metric systems)
September 1, 2007... Just what you need: another acronym. But the PUE can be a valuable tool for evaluating parts of a data center and, more importantly, for developing a cohesive HVAC plan for a facility based on its location and design as well as its individual...

Adiabatic humidification: put to the test.
September 1, 2007... NSF International is in the business of writing standards for and certifying a wide range of products and consumer goods, so consistency and continuity are essential to protecting a reputation. When the Michigan company needed a humidification...

Commissioning, recommissioning, retrocommissioning and continuous commissioning.
September 1, 2007... When it comes down to it, some commissioning is better than no commissioning. However, this author brings his opinions and experiences to bear in reminding us that familiarity with the different types of commissioning can earn big savings if...

Eight ways new media will transform your business in '08: special from ES' parent company, BNP Media, Inc.(Issues & Events)
September 1, 2007... We understand. You are overwhelmed with information and nonstop technology. Every day you are bombarded with options. You need help. As a customer-focused media company, BNP Media is committed to delivering information in ways that will...

Marathon Sensors Inc.(Industry News)(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... Marathon Sensors Inc. was recognized by Ohio Governor Ted Strickland as the state's "Exporter of the Year 2007," for its work in the design, manufacture and marketing of atmosphere sensors, instrumentation and control systems for the heat...

Carrier Corp.(Industry News)
September 1, 2007... Carrier Corp.'s Carrier University offers a complete Commercial System Design program to support the ongoing professional development needs of engineers and designers.

Greenheck.(Industry News)(Greenheck Fan Corp.)(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... Greenheck's Ultimate Steel Grease Fan (Model USGF) recently received Miami-Dade Notice of Acceptance #07-0503.06 certifying that it passed stringent tests of its ability to withstand hurricane conditions.

Nortec Industries.(Industry News)(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... Nortec Industries has added Seresco dehumidifiers to its product line. Seresco manufactures mechanical dehumidification equipment primarily for indoor pool applications. The move positions Nortec as North America's first complete control...

ASHRAE.(Association Agenda)(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... ASHRAE announced that new chapters on room air distribution, integrated building design, and chemical, biological, radiological and explosive incidents are contained in its new 2007 ASHRAE Handbook--HVAC Applications.

The National Conference on Building Commissioning.(Association Agenda)(Conference notes)
September 1, 2007... The National Conference on Building Commissioning celebrated its 15th anniversary with a successful conference, which had more attendees than ever before.

The Building Automation Institute (BAI).(Association Agenda)(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... The Building Automation Institute (BAI) is a professionally run, not for profit, user-driven organization focusing on user intelligence and first-hand information and data about building automation controls, systems, and peripherals.

ES and BACnet prep three-day event on sustainability, automation, lighting control, and more.(Issues & Events)(Conference news)(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... Engineered Systems' Building Automation & Sustainability Conference, which will be held on conjunction with the BACnet International Conference, takes place in Phoenix September 25-27, 2007. The September 25th agenda will focus on BACnet...

Beaudin Ganze Consulting Engineers, Inc.(Engineering Beat)(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... Beaudin Ganze Consulting Engineers, Inc. has moved to a new space in Denver West. The new office is located at 1626 Cole Blvd. Ste 300, Building 7, Lakewood, CO, 80401. Its phone numbers remain the same.

Sebesta Blomberg.(Engineering Beat)(Sebesta Blomberg and Associates)(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... Sebesta Blomberg announced the merger of its Cedar Rapids and North Liberty, IA offices, which will provide the firm the opportunity to better serve the expanding needs of their regional and national clients.

Dewberry.(Engineering Beat)(Dewberry and Davis L.L.C.)(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... Dewberry has received the Partnership for Response and Recovery (PaRR), a four and a half-year, $750-million performance-based professional, administrative, and management support services contract from the Department of Homeland Security,...

Johnson Controls, Inc.(Faces and Places)(Stephen A. Roell appointed)(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... Johnson Controls, Inc.'s board of directors announced that Stephen A. Roell, executive vice president and vice chairman, has been elected CEO effective October 1, 2007, and was also elected chairman of the company's board of directors effective...

Weil-McLain.(Faces and Places)
September 1, 2007... Weil-McLain, a manufacturer of hydronic heating systems for residential and commercial structures, has named John Way as president.

Alerton.(Faces and Places)
September 1, 2007... Alerton named The Muninn Group, Inc., which will serve Pennsylvania's western region, as its newest dealer.

Keltron Corporation.(Faces and Places)
September 1, 2007... Keltron Corporation announced the retirement of Harvey M. Fox, president and founder of the Waltham, MA-based life safety event management systems manufacturer.

Datalogger Alarm & Read Out Tool.(Computers & Software)
September 1, 2007... The company's Alarm and Readout Tool is plug-in software module for use with HOBOware Pro[R] software. It automatically notifies users via cell phone text messages or e-mail when temperature, humidity, and other conditions exceed user-defined...

Custom coil piping packages.(Computers & Software)
September 1, 2007... The company's recently released PDS (Package Design Software) is designed to drastically improve the design-bid-schedule-buy process for custom coil piping packages. The point-and-click application allows users to configure coil-piping...

High-velocity duct design.(Computers & Software)
September 1, 2007... The new version of the Right-HVTM Duct design module for Right-Suite Residential[TM], enables users to create accurate high-velocity duct designs. The program offers a drag-and-drop approach to duct design that enables customers to create...

Carmel Software.(BITS & BYTES)(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... Carmel Software's Carmel Data Input Service provides new and existing licensees with company personnel to input building and/or engineering data required for any of a client's HVAC projects into one of the company's HVAC load calculation and...

MicroMain Corporation.(BITS & BYTES)
September 1, 2007... MicroMain Corporation, a provider of asset and facility management software and services, has released version 7.1 of its MicroMain[TM] CMMS.

Synergis Software.(BITS & BYTES)(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... Synergis Software, the independent software development division of Synergis Technologies, Inc., has released Adept Explorer, a Web-based program designed for people who need to review or consume engineering and business-related information...

Emerson Network Power.(BITS & BYTES)
September 1, 2007... Emerson Network Power, a business of Emerson, introduced Liebert Nform 2.0, a network-based management system supporting centralized, real-time monitoring of IT support equipment.

ALGOR, Inc.(BITS & BYTES)(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... ALGOR, Inc., a provider of design, analysis and simulation software, has opened a new office in Santa Clarita, CA, approximately 40 miles northwest of Los Angeles.

Reliable Controls[R].(BITS & BYTES)(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... Reliable Controls[R] has released the MACH-ProCom[Tm] BACnet[R] building controller, a 32-bit based BACnet device that provides high-speed 10/100 Ethernet, SMARTNet communications, expandable I/O, and protocol support for BACnet, RCP, SMTP, and...

Dexter + Chaney.(BITS & BYTES)(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... Dexter + Chaney has changed the name of its software marketed to construction companies throughout the U.S.--Dexter + Chaney's Forefront[TM] Construction Suite has been renamed Spectrum[TM] Construction Software--a change, the company explains,...

Grundfos'.(WORLD WIDE WEB)(Website overview)
September 1, 2007... Grundfos' new website at www.versaflo.com provides product information, engineering tools, selection tools for pump replacement, and engineering specifications for the wet-rotor technology VersaFlo[R] circulator.

Schneider Electric North America.(WORLD WIDE WEB)(www.us.squared.com/govenergy )(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... Schneider Electric North America has launched a new website for federal agencies--www.us.squared.com/govenergy --which contains information regarding the Energy Policy Act of 2005, its impact on federal agencies, and the company's solutions...

CopelandScroll.com.(WORLD WIDE WEB)(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... CopelandScroll.com offers an innovative way for customers to learn more about Copeland Scroll compressors available from Emerson Climate Technologies, Inc., as the site now features animations of the technology in action, descriptions of the...

IOnset Computer Corporation.(WORLD WIDE WEB)
September 1, 2007... Onset Computer Corporation's free, on-demand webinar is titled, "Reducing Energy Demand Charges: 3 Critical Steps."

Powers.(WORLD WIDE WEB)
September 1, 2007... Powers has launched its revamped website at www.powerscontrols.com, featuring a new look, feel, and infrastructure.

Universal Air Filter.(WORLD WIDE WEB)(Website overview)
September 1, 2007... Universal Air Filter's new website (www.uaf.com) is easier for design engineers to navigate to help them save valuable time and money.

The Mechanical Contracting Education & Research Foundation.(WORLD WIDE WEB)(www.mcerf.org)(Brief article)
September 1, 2007... The Mechanical Contracting Education & Research Foundation (MCERF) unveiled its greened up website (www.mcerf.org) to better reflect and report on the many things the group has developed in the green arena, along with future efforts.

Teledyne Hastings Instruments.(WORLD WIDE WEB)(Website overview)
September 1, 2007... Teledyne Hastings Instruments' newly updated website, located at www.teledyne-hi.com, presents detailed product specifications with a new easy to navigate system.

Water circulators.(Products In Focus)
September 1, 2007... The company has expanded its range of potable water circulators with three models in 13 variations. All models are available with a standard union or two-bolt flange connection. Line cord or timer line cord with integrated 24-hr timer...

VAV controllers.(Products In Focus)
September 1, 2007... The ECC-VAVS is a two-input LonMark[R]-certified configurable controller designed for cost-efficient installations. Features include two universal inputs; two digital triac outputs and two additional network outputs allow simultaneous control...

Antifreeze.(Products In Focus)
September 1, 2007... NOBURST HD is a propylene glycol antifreeze and heat transfer fluid that is designed to provide higher thermal stability and extended fluid life. It is suited for hydronic heating systems, coolers, and chillers, where temperatures range from...

Flowmeters.(Products In Focus)
September 1, 2007... The company's FMG201 Series flowmeter is capable of measuring the pulsating flows from both air and solenoid-driven metering pumps. In addition to measuring and displaying flow rate and total flow, the unit has a variety of outputs-plus relay...

Water heaters.(Products In Focus)
September 1, 2007... The ARMOR water heater offers thermal efficiencies up to 98% and features a stainless steel heat exchanger, 5:1 modulating turndown, and the Smart Systemp[TM] operating control system. The unit is available in five commercial water heater...

Condensate pans.(Products In Focus)
September 1, 2007... The CPR-1 System is a patented antimicrobial system, which through sloping and sealing the existing condensate pan, eliminates standing water, stops leaks, and abates the growth of mold and bacteria. It uses a nanotechnology that halts rust and...

Boilers support.(Literature & Catalogs)
September 1, 2007... This Technical Specification and Usage Guide features information about boiler maintenance safety. Also included is a pocket slide rule that charts steam temperature vs. pressure. The company's gaskets are designed to seal quickly and...

Electrical testers.(Literature & Catalogs)
September 1, 2007... This brochure features technical data on the company's T+ and T+Pro electrical testers. Included are features and benefits, a specification chart, and ordering information. The testers are suited for commercial and industrial applications. ...

Chimneys.(Literature & Catalogs)
September 1, 2007... This catalog describes the company's direct vent chimney line. Included is information on the complete variety of pipe and fittings and installation kits for every direct vent gas appliance application. --Metal-Fab, Inc. FREE INFO:...

Ducting.(Literature & Catalogs)
September 1, 2007... This catalog features the company's flexible hose, ducting, and accessories products. The guide matches products to specific industries and applications and photographs and specifications for each product are included. --The Flexaust...

Air/dirt separators.(Literature & Catalogs)
September 1, 2007... This brochure features the company's 4900 Series air/dirt separators and includes a full description on the unit's PALL ring technology--stainless steel rings enclosed within a basket inside the separator vessel that separate air micro bubbles,...

Boilers.(Literature & Catalogs)
September 1, 2007... These brochures feature the company's Benchmark and Modulex line of boilers. The Benchmark brochure describes how the expanded line of 2 and 3 million Btuh boilers can deliver energy savings and reduced installation costs. The Modulex brochure...

The making of back to basics/HVACR designer tips: see how to use checklists to build success, and more.(Tomorrow's Engineer)
September 1, 2007... Next month, Engineered Systems magazine will be introducing its first "Back To Basics-HVACR Designer Tips" webinar, which will also include the "Application Scorecard" process. In this interactive webcast, we will show you what goes on...