Contractor articles from August 2001

Contractor archives from August 2001

Fields get toasty turf.(turf-warming systems for football stadia)
August 1, 2001... DENVER -- When the Denver Broncos and the Pittsburgh Steelers are playing football in their new stadiums, they won't be hitting rock-hard, frozen-solid turf or torn up mud pits. The new football fields for both teams contain turf-warming...

CPSC recalls 35 million O-ring fire sprinklers.(U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission)
August 1, 2001... WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Central Sprinkler Co. have announced a voluntary recall to replace as many as 35 million sprinklers with O-ring seals. Most of the sprinklers are GB Series wet and dry sprinklers...

CSST fights for life in Calif.(flexible gas pipe)(corrugated stainless steel pipe)
August 1, 2001... SACRAMENTO, CALIF. -- Makers of corrugated stainless steel tubing and representatives of the home-building industry have started a major public relations campaign to keep the flexible gas pipe legal in California. If they fail to convince the...

NRDC sues EPA over arsenic.(Natural Resources Defense Council lawsuit over arsenic in drinking water)
August 1, 2001... WASHINGTON -- The Natural Resources Defense Council has sued the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for delaying its previously announced standard for arsenic in drinking water of 10 parts per billion. The current standard is 50 parts per...

Labor Contract Settlement.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... Labor Contract Settlement $0.39 0 or less 0 1 $0.40 7 to $0.59 3 5 $0.60 3 to $0.79 0 1 $0.80 5 to $0.99 4 2 $1.00...

Bombing at Apex Supply.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... ATLANTA -- Federal agents arrested a Bothell, Wash., computer consultant and charged him with trying to kill his ex-wife by sending her a package bomb July 18 at Apex Supply, her employer. Apex Supply, a plumbing and heating wholesaler, is...

Plumbing contractor grows by hiring one-man shops.(Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning )
August 1, 2001... HOLLISTON, MASS. -- It's hard to find a good plumber today -- even for plumbing contractors. The average age of a plumber in Massachusetts is 49, and there aren't a lot of new young plumbers in the pipeline. For an ambitious,...

CPSC recalls 30,000 furnaces.(Consumer Product Safety Commission)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recalled 30,000 furnaces sold in California. Seven firms are offering to repair or replace certain furnaces, which were sold under their own labels, but were manufactured by Consolidated...

Top non-residential growth markets.(Brief Article)(Statistical Data Included)
August 1, 2001... Top non-residential growth markets 2001 2002 2003 2004 Education 12% 13% 12% 11% Private office and professional 13% 8% 8% 8% Parking garages 8% 8% 9% 8% ...

Facility is `potty parity' champ.(American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX has three times as many toilets for women due to Texas law)
August 1, 2001... Special to CONTRACTOR DALLAS -- When the American Airlines Center here opened last month, it could claim the title of toilet fixture champion of U.S. arenas. Female guests, in particular, will be happy to see no lines at the restrooms. But...

Homeowners get $41M in pipe suit.
August 1, 2001... LOS ANGELES -- Some 5,000 California homeowners will share a $41 million settlement obtained from home builders who installed Korean-made galvanized water-supply pipe that corroded and leaked. The settlement amounts to about $8,000 per...

Do you flush in an unsanitary restroom?(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... Do you flush in an unsanitary restroom? Total Male Female Don't flush 2% 3% 1% Flush normally 30% 32% 29% Flush with shoe 41% 43% 38% Flush with paper...

KeySpan hits bump on contracting road.
August 1, 2001... BROOKLYN, N.Y. -- KeySpan Corp. announced in mid-July that it is taking a special charge in its Energy Services business because of significant management problems at its Roy Kay Inc. plumbing, mechanical and electrical contracting operation....

The International Code Council will publish the 2001.(ICC Performance Code for Buildings and Facilities )(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The International Code Council will publish the 2001 edition of the ICC Performance Code for Buildings and Facilities at the end of December. In performance-based language, the document will address the scope of all the International Codes,...

A no-cost training program will be offered by the International.(International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials )(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... A no-cost training program will be offered by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials in states considering the adoption of the Uniform Plumbing Code and Uniform Mechanical Code. IAPMO will provide up to three free...

The Mechanical Electrical Sheet Metal Alliance has expressed.(supports reducing depreciation for leasehold improvements)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The Mechanical Electrical Sheet Metal Alliance has expressed its support for legislation that would amend the Internal Revenue Code to reduce the depreciation for leasehold improvements from 39 to 10 years. These improvements made to leased...

More than 500 members of the Associated Builders.(Associated Builders and Contractors' Annual Legislative Conference)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... More than 500 members of the Associated Builders and Contractors came to Washington June 5-6 to meet with lawmakers and to hear from Vice President Dick Cheney and U.S. Labor Secretary Elaine Chao. Top issues at ABC's annual Legislative...

More than 650 plumbing contractors, plumbers.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... More than 650 plumbing contractors, plumbers and their family members attended the Milwaukee Brewers vs. Chicago White Sox baseball game July 16 at Miller Park in Milwaukee. Attendees included members of Plumbing and Mechanical Contractors...

Columbus, Ohio-based Croson-Teepe Mechanical Contractors.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... Columbus, Ohio-based Croson-Teepe Mechanical Contractors has become AMPAM Commercial Midwest, a subsidiary of Round Rock, Texas-based AMPAM. Croson-Teepe was formed in 1998 with the merger of J.A. Croson Co. and Teepe's River City Mechanical....

Aggies get sprinklered.(Texas A&M University)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS -- Texas A&M University has embarked on a five-year, $5.2 million sprinkler retrofit program that will eventually sprinkler 24 of 41 residence halls, the campus newspaper, The Battalion, reported in mid-July. The...

It's time for plumbers to get out of overalls.
August 1, 2001... YOU CAN single-handedly change the image of the industry in your community, at least as far as your company and your quality employee needs are concerned. Good people are out there. If you deserve to have some of them, these following thoughts...

LETTERS.(Brief Article)(Letter to the Editor)
August 1, 2001... `Heating guy' hurts image of industry THREE LAKES, WIS. -- I really enjoy your publication every time I open it. I find it very informative and sometimes even funny. This time, though, I was disappointed with Dan Holohan's "The heating...

Honeywell's Bonsignore retires; Bossidy returns.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... MORRIS TOWNSHIP, N.J. -- In the wake of its failed merger with General Electric, (July 2000, pg. 1) the Board of Directors of Honeywell said that Michael R. Bonsignore has announced his intention to retire from the company, effective...

J-1450 Electric Water Jet is a compact and portable drain cleaning machine.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The J-1450 Electric Water Jet is a compact and portable drain cleaning machine that uses high pressure water to clear drain lines clogged with grease, sand, sludge and ice. The overall height of the machine is 29-in., which drops to 14-in. when...

The Lenox hole saws feature a 4 1/2-in./5 1/2-in. variable tooth design with alternating blade sections.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The Lenox hole saws feature a 4 1/2-in./5 1/2-in. variable tooth design with alternating blade sections. The shape evenly distributes cutting force over a wider area of the tooth for faster, higher-quality cuts through both thick-and thin-gauge...

Chill-con air and tube condenser include spirally augmented surface tubes for maximum efficiency.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... Chill-con air and tube condenser include spirally augmented surface tubes for maximum efficiency. They are available in sized from 5 tons to 500 nominal tons of refrigeration. They feature removable heads for tube cleaning and straight-through...

This 18v., 1/2-in. cordless impact wrench features 240 ft.-lb. of torque.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... This 18v., 1/2-in. cordless impact wrench features 240 ft.-lb. of torque. It can remove the lug nuts from vehicles, drive large lag bolts or fasteners into concrete or wood, and drill large (3/4-in. or greater) holes into deep materials. It...

The Regal PRO diaphragm flushometer is designed to combat harsh water conditions and adapt to changing water pressures.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The Regal PRO diaphragm flushometer is designed to combat harsh water conditions and adapt to changing water pressures. A fixed metering by-pass orifice helps deliver a more consistent flush volume over a full range of pressures and conditions....

RS2790 Ratchet Shears cut PVC and PE pipe used in gas, water, plumbing and industrial applications.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The RS2790 Ratchet Shears cut PVC and PE pipe used in gas, water, plumbing and industrial applications. These 2-in. capacity, one-hand style shears feature blades that can be sharpened or replaced for longer tool life, lower costs and faster...

This High Altitude Metering Valve provides the correct air and fuel mixture for the company's cordless trim tools in high altitude applications.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... This High Altitude Metering Valve provides the correct air and fuel mixture for the company's cordless trim tools in high altitude applications. It allows the tools to be used in altitudes from 4,000 ft. to 9,000 ft., making them ideal for use...

This XRP 18v. cordless hammer-drill/drill/driver uses a high-torque motor that delivers 450 in./lb.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... This XRP 18v. cordless hammer-drill/drill/driver uses a high-torque motor that delivers 450 in./lb. A three-speed transmission produces more RPMs for faster drilling and driving applications. Blows per minute on maximum setting now range from 0...

The Model 122 copper cutting and prep machine allows the user to clean, cut and ream 1/2-in. to 2-in. tubing quickly and professionally.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The Model 122 copper cutting and prep machine allows the user to clean, cut and ream 1/2-in. to 2-in. tubing quickly and professionally. An optional quick-change fitting brush system and storage rack allows the preparation of copper fittings...

The Subsite 950 R/T system is designed to locate buried telephone, power, gas, sewer and water lines on most job site conditions.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The Subsite 950 R/T system is designed to locate buried telephone, power, gas, sewer and water lines on most job site conditions. The receiver weighs only 4.5 lb., and is ergonomically designed to make it easy to carry throughout the day....

The SH-Series of steam traps for superheated steam and low-load applications are designed for extended service life and are capable of withstanding high temperatures and pressures.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The SH-Series of steam traps for superheated steam and low-load applications are designed for extended service life and are capable of withstanding high temperatures and pressures. The two-model series utilizes titanium valves and seats for...

The Lutezia pedestal lavatory measures 23 3/4-in. wide by 18 1/4-in. deep by 31-in. high.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The Lutezia pedestal lavatory measures 23 3/4-in. wide by 18 1/4-in. deep by 31-in. high. It is crafted of vitreous china and features an integrated soap dish and graceful shelf area for toiletries. It is ideal for bathrooms with limited space....

The SwitchPlier automatic opening multi-tool opens at the push of a button.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The SwitchPlier automatic opening multi-tool opens at the push of a button. It features spring-loaded action for a consistent plier grip. The five fully locking components include knife blade, bottle opener, small screwdriver, Philips...

The Model 4005 pipe clamp probe provides fast and accurate.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The Model 4005 pipe clamp probe provides fast and accurate temperature measurements of pipe surfaces in diameters up to 1 3/8-in. Ergonomically designed for ease of use, it can be operated with one hand. The spring-loaded handle assures...

The Axor Starck Collection of designer bathroom faucets and accessories.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The Axor Starck Collection of designer bathroom faucets and accessories is inspired by basic implements: a nail in a wall, a bucket or an old-fashioned hand pump. The faucet features a tubular body and a pencil-thin lever for on/off functions...

Raupex UV Shield pipe is available in two colors, red and blue, for simplified identification during installation or repair.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... Raupex UV Shield pipe is available in two colors, red and blue, for simplified identification during installation or repair. Manufactured of cross-linked polyethylene, it is co-extruded with a shield for additional protection against...

The TravelEyes2 vehicle tracking system uses GPS satellite technology.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The TravelEyes2 vehicle tracking system uses GPS satellite technology that can record business travel time and mileage, plan trips and provide directions to users. The system can show exact locations visited by a given vehicle, time on site,...

This new boiler lineup features residential hot water and steam boilers that come with a scratch-resistant.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... This new boiler lineup features residential hot water and steam boilers that come with a scratch-resistant jacket that has a textured, two tone, powder-coated finish. The boilers include stainless steel burners and convenient access to controls...

This 18v. cordless drill/driver delivers 475 in. lb. of torque with its 48-mm. motor.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... This 18v. cordless drill/driver delivers 475 in. lb. of torque with its 48-mm. motor. The 1/2-in. keyless one-handed chuck and the combination of a more ergonomic soft grip pistol handle and left or right-side assist handle provide the user...

Premium quality solid acrylic surfaces are now available in a wide range of colors and one-of-a-kind patterns to suit almost any interior design.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... Premium quality solid acrylic surfaces are now available in a wide range of colors and one-of-a-kind patterns to suit almost any interior design. The surfaces are stain- and scratch-resistant, non-porous and easy to maintain. It is available in...

The Hi-Viz tool box provides maximum space and storage in a compact, durable unit.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The Hi-Viz tool box provides maximum space and storage in a compact, durable unit. The orange color allows it to be easily spotted on cluttered job sites. The box is offered in three styles: a three tier, a sit/stand three tier, and a slide...

The Caddy one-piece rigid pipe clamp easily handles heavy loads and supports.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The Caddy one-piece rigid pipe clamp easily handles heavy loads and supports pipe and copper tubing to strut. The design incorporates a retained bolt and built-in nut to minimized dropped and lost parts. The only tools needed for installation...

These thermoplastic check valves will never fail, stick or jam due to rust or corrosion.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... These thermoplastic check valves will never fail, stick or jam due to rust or corrosion. The low-maintenance valves are available in sizes to 4 in. with socket, threaded or flanged connections and are rated at 150 psi. Viton seals are standard....

The Xchange drill and drive system eliminates the need to chuck and rechuck from drilling and driving.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The Xchange drill and drive system eliminates the need to chuck and rechuck from drilling and driving. An integrated screw guide stabilizes and guides each screw for a perfect drive every time. This three-in-one accessory can be used with...

The Invigor air therapy bath uses 18-24 low profile air injectors.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The Invigor air therapy bath uses 18-24 low profile air injectors and a 1 hp heated air blower to provide s full body massage. There are 23 models, all with deep, spacious designs for full-body immersion. All bathtub shells are manufactured of...

The Jobox rolling clam-shell cabinet has a wide rain gutter on the left.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The Jobox rolling clam-shell cabinet has a wide rain gutter on the left. When the cabinet is closed, it fits inside the right side to channel moisture away from the interior. A locking system protects the padlock inside a 12-gauge steel hasp....

The Sump Patrol battery operated audio alarm is designed to warn of threatening liquid level conditions in sump basins.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The Sump Patrol battery operated audio alarm is designed to warn of threatening liquid level conditions in sump basins. It features an automatic alarm reset, chirper circuitry to warn of low battery condition, a float actuated sensor for...

The Speedglass 9000Xi auto-darkening welding lens automatically darkens.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The Speedglass 9000Xi auto-darkening welding lens automatically darkens from shade 3 to a user-selected dark state: shades 9, 10, 11, 12 or 13. At the same time, the lens also switches to a high sensitivity mode so its photo sensors can sense...

The JetCleaner tool is designed to help maintain hydraulic and fluid handling systems.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The JetCleaner tool is designed to help maintain hydraulic and fluid handling systems. It uses compressed air to shoot oversized foam projectiles to clean straight, curved and coiled tubes, pipes and hoses 3/16-in. to 2-in. I.D. It will even...

This plasma arc Cutting Guide makes hand-held cutting easier for improved cut quality and faster travel speed.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... This plasma arc Cutting Guide makes hand-held cutting easier for improved cut quality and faster travel speed. It will create repeatable, circle cuts, eliminating the need for costly templates. It easily adjusts from 2-in. to 40-in. to make a...

Curious George.(plumbing)
August 1, 2001... GEORGE STOOD on his toes behind Ronnie and watched what Ronnie was doing. The light in the boiler room was as dim as twilight, but George could see OK because Ronnie had the little flashlight in his mouth and was aiming it at the inside of a...

Don't be impoverished hydronics contractor.(Column)
August 1, 2001... IREALIZE that I am stepping outside. my normal duties as the hydronics writer for this magazine, and it is not my intent to step on the toes of the other more qualified writers who write for this publication. During the course of conversation,...

Wireless keyboards and FireWire connections.
August 1, 2001... WORKING WITH tight desk space or time constraints? You might want to consider installing some computer-based capital improvements that can help streamline computer activities, including keyboarding and screen navigating, data download and data...

Ferguson expands fire services in the Southeast.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... NEWPORT NEWS, VA. -- Ferguson, one of the country's largest wholesale distributors has announced that its Sierra Craft subsidiary has acquired certain assets of Mid-Cities fabrication. With locations in Dallas and Tampa, Fla., Mid-Cities...

Roto-Rooter has rough half.(Chemed Corp)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... CINCINNATI -- Chemed Corp. announced that its June 30 second quarter and 2001 calendar year sales and earnings will be lower than its previously reported estimates. The significant factor affecting second-quarter results is slowing sales...

Zone Control 369.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... The Zone Control 369 provides control of multiple single stage or two stage heating zones. Control staggers and synchronizes the zone operation in order to maintain a relatively constant load on the boiler and increase system efficiency. Each...

Commercial and Industrial Boilers From Bryan Steam.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... Bryan Steam's new full line brochure describes their gas, oil and dual-fuel fired hot water and steam boilers, electric hot water and steam boilers, water heaters and related equipment. Bryan's exclusive "Flexible Water Tube" design provides...

Flow Meters help maintain system balance.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... Metraflex flow meters are an accurate check on a system's pump output and efficiency as well as monitoring system flow at all vital checkpoints. Available in a variety of models for 10 GPM through 7,400 GPM, they have a maximum operating...

Now is a great time to work on your business, not in it.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2001... A CONTRACTOR FRIEND told me several years ago that his biggest challenge in growing his company was learning to work on his business rather than in it. Since I work with words all day, I've always admired the economy of that phrase. I've...