Consulting-Specifying Engineer staff
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Controlling success
Rebecca Ellis is a nationally recognized leader in the commissioning industry and specializes in the design, analysis, and commissioning of intricate temperature and humidity control systems.
Top Consulting-Specifying Engineer Articles, December 2011
The most visited articles at www.csemag.com during December 2011 included articles on natural ventilation, standby power, the Smart Grid, and many others.
Top Consulting-Specifying Engineer Articles, October 2011
Most visited articles at www.csemag.com during October 2011 included the state of commissioning, lighting controls, electrical design for HVAC, NFPA13 for high-rises, and RCx.
2011 Product of the Year Winners
Consulting-Specifying Engineer Readers have cast their votes for the 2011 Product of the Year; read about the winners.
Top Consulting-Specifying Engineer Articles, August 2011
Most visited articles at www.csemag.com during August 2011 included getting to know the new lighting code, using geothermal systems to obtain net zero, chiller plants in humid zones, engineering smart hospitals, and MEP project profiles from the 2011 MEP Giants.
Top Consulting-Specifying Engineer Articles, July 2011
Most visited articles at www.csemag.com during July 2011 included technical articles looking at circuit protection in healthcare facilities, adding value to specifying fire sprinkler systems, properly sizing transformers for commercial projects, integrated HVAC and lighting controls to optimize BAS, and incorporating a detailed test and balance plan to overcome project pitfalls.
LCD annunciators
The AX series remote graphical LCD annunciator by Advance Fire Systems is available in two models, AX-ANN-C and AX-ANN-D. The C-model provides users with annunciation and programmable peer-to-peer system, while the D-model provides annunciation only. Both models feature a graphic LCD display and each are fully field-programmable, with the ability to communicate over an advanced fire system network. https://afsi.us.com #4.
Recessed lighting system
Integrate vital building systems with high-efficiency lighting using the Neo-Ray Series 1B from Cooper Industries Inc. The fixtures feature a lamp-floating lensed microlouver on 1-in. centers with separate end utility compartments for occupancy sensors, daylight sensors, air returns, sprinklers, speakers, or a MR16 downlight.
Louvered penthouse
Greenheck's ESD-635PD and EHH-601PD penthouses can function as gravity ventilators or equipment enclosures. Approved for use inside or outside Florida's high-velocity hurricane zone, they feature 6-in. louver blades, all-aluminum construction, and a maximum design wind load of 115 psf.
Lighting control system – 2009-08-01
Maintain control on operating costs with the Square D Powerlink G3 intelligent lighting control system by Schneider Electric. The system can react to potential load-shed situations, such as market electrical prices reaching a predetermined ceiling that prompts a shift to backup power sources. It also contains a schedule-based controller, and facility managers can configure and execute load-shed sequences remotely. www.squaredlightingcontrol.com #10.
Alarm control panel
The FPD-7024 by Bosch Security Systems is a fire alarm control panel that works in conjunction with other equipment to produce a faster alarm. With the ability to report over a local or wide area network, the FPD-7024 reduces costs by eliminating the need to purchase several phone lines for a central station monitoring service. Its addressable technology means it can facilitate up to 247 different areas, allowing office buildings, www.boschsecurity.us #2.
Fire alarm network
Operating nearly 40 times faster than its standard platform, the high-speed NOTI-FIRE-NET, manufactured by Notifier, is a high-tech fire alarm network. Using the system allows buildings to use multiple alarms and MNS over a single network, resulting in complete monitoring control. The system is designed for facilities and campuses of all sizes, and its scalability allows for easy expansion and reconfiguration. www.notifier.com #3.
Cooling tower drive system
Replace gearbox and jack shaft installations with the VS1 cooling tower drive from Baldor. The drive system comes with optimal variable speed performance and reduced energy consumption. The power-dense product combines laminated finned-frame motor with permanent magnet salient pole rotor design that eliminates the need for right-angle gearbox maintenance and avoids issues with leaky gearboxes.
Letters – 2009-08-01
Europeans versus Americans on energy Energy taxes are needed Europeans have placed large taxes on energy for decades recognizing the other impacts (costs) of energy use beyond the extraction, processing, and delivery costs. We need to get serious about gradually applying energy taxes here and efficiently direct their use toward energy-saving technologies. LARRY B Demographics and climate change I'm an American HVAC engineer who's been working in the U.K. for a while.
Condenser fan
Stulz-ATS remote outdoor air-cooled condensers are now available with optional electrically commutated plug fans. By converting ac to dc, the fans allow for infinitely variable fan speed adjustment because the speed of every fan can adjust to the exact air flow and cooling requirements of the condenser. The fan's technology is more efficient, saves energy, and decreases noise and vibration as air flow and speed are reduced. www.stulz-ats.com #11.
Energy-optimized circulators
The 115 V ALPHA circulator by Grundfos Pumps Corp. can automatically respond to changing needs in hydronic heating systems. The magnetized rotor makes the circulator more efficient with less heat and energy waste. The circulator offers a flow range of 0 to 21 gpm and a head range from 0 to 19 ft. The circulator can handle fluid temperatures from 36 to 230 F with a maximum working pressure of 15...
Sustainable high-output lamp
Save money and energy with the Energy Advantage 49 W fluorescent lamp from Philips Lighting in T5 high-output (HO) applications. Available in 3000-, 3500-, 4100-, and 5000-K color temperatures, these bulbs are low wattage and low mercury alternatives to 54 W T5HO bulbs. The bulbs feature high-lumen maintenance and a color-rendering index of 82 to 85, and they maximize design flexibility while s...
UL-listed transfer switches
PowerCommand automatic transfer switches from Cummins Power Generation Inc. are the industry’s first to achieve Underwriter Laboratories, Inc. (UL) -listed 10-cycle and 30-cycle withstand and closing (short-time) ratings. The UL listing assures that the OHPC open transition and CHPC closed transition switches perform at a high level, particularly for standby power systems requiring select...
Letters – 2009-07-01
Transformer costs I am writing you with concern about significant errors in the Pure Power article “Calculating the 'Real' Cost of Ownership for Transformers” (Spring 2009, page 20) by Thomas Patzner and Wendell Leisinger. The article is a disservice to readers seeking to reduce electricity waste. It overstates cost and underestimates savings of higher efficiency transformers, thereby making the wrong lifecycle cost conclusion. This is all the more troubling given the article's title.
Emergency relay panel
Ensure fail-safe emergency lighting in commercial settings with the new emergency relay panel from Watt Stopper Inc. The emergency relay panel can monitor the presence of normal power to control emergency lighting circuits based on ordinary control schedules and devices. The emergency relay panel option is available with Watt Stopper’s 24- or 48-relay size Lighting Integrator low-voltage ...
Water-to-water heater
Use precise temperature control to meet hot water requirements with SmartPlate water heaters from AERCO. With brazed plate and plate-and-frame designs for high-efficiency condensing boilers, the water heaters help reduce system energy costs and maintain ±2 F temperature control. The heaters can support up to 90 gpm domestic loads at a 100 F rise and have real-time load-tracking capabilities.
Occupancy sensor
Wirelessly monitor any space to save energy with the Radio PowrSavr from Lutron Electronics Co. Precise algorithms enable the device to detect small motions and distinguish them from background noise or interference to keep the lights on when someone is typing, writing, or flipping pages, and to turn the lights off only when the space is truly empty.
Handheld power monitor
View waveforms, take snapshots, and save data from a safe distance with the PS2500, PS3500, and PS4500 from PowerSight. These handheld units feature a Category IV rating (600 V/8000 V) and Bluetooth wireless communication. Users can operate meters from up to 20 ft away when the software is installed on a PC or PDA.
Electrical switch
Meet NEC safety standards with the Tamper-Resistant Receptacle/Switch Combination device from Pass & Seymour/Legrand. The electrical switch features a built-in shutter system to prevent metal objects from touching live electrical components, but plugs can still be inserted. The switch is available in 15A and 20A options.
Lighting enclosure
Stop damage from surges and lightning with the Stahlin DuraBoxx series of enclosures from V-Blox Corp. The UL/CUL listed enclosures are molded from a composite fiberglass thermosetting material. The chemical-resistant enclosures are Type 4X and 6P NEMA-rated. Designed for commercial and industrial environments such as mining, oil, gas, and wastewater treatment, the enclosures meet standards inc...
Centralized controller
To give greater temperature control to hospitals, office buildings, and data centers, the Mitsubishi Electric HVAC Advanced Products Division has released the GB-24 centralized controller. A model in its CITY MULTI Controls Network, the GB-24 monitors and directs up to 24 indoor temperature units and features a setback control, which allows consumers to set one or more temperatures to be mainta...
Humidity regulator
Run by energy created from recycled cooling components, the Munters DryCool Standard allows owners to independently control temperature and humidity. Working alongside an existing air conditioner or energy recovery ventilator, the DryCool affects the humidity only when levels exceed a set point, allowing the product to be cost-efficient.
Circuit breakers – 2009-06-01
Rated up to 125 amp, the NDM1-125 high-current DIN rail-mounted circuit breakers from Automation Systems Interconnect are UL1077 Recognized for use as supplemental protectors. Available in 1-, 2-, and 3-pole versions, the circuit breakers can be ordered in C- or D-trip curves. The circuit breakers are 300% factory tested and feature a 10 kA interrupt capacity and a visual trip indicator.
Polyethylene insulators
Available in 15 kV, 25 kV, and 35 kV models, the HPI Polyethylene Insulators are lightweight options for linemen and are fit to use in construction areas. Manufactured by Hendrix Wire & Cable, the insulators offer longer leakage distance and higher impulse strength than their porcelain counterparts.
Condensing boiler – 2009-06-01
Built to deliver the highest operating efficiencies, the Triple-Flex Ultra-High Efficiency Condensing boiler, made by Bryan Steam LLC, offers a minimum of 90% thermal effectiveness. The boiler features stainless steel flexible tubes, a variable speed combustion air blower, and removable access panels.
Server console switch
Integrate KVM and serial devices into a single management console for all servers including blades, network devices, and infrastructure products with the Server Console Switch G2 from HP. Requiring no software to be installed on the target servers, the switch starts at 8 ports with the scalability to support up to 256 servers.
Heat containment system
Manage dynamic heat loads in data centers with the Heat Containment System from Wright Line. The system integrates into existing cooling infrastructure and captures, manages, and directs heat exhaust from IT equipment to the top rear of the enclosure. The field-installable system also features optional air flow management accessories such as blanking panels, by-pass airflow grommets, cable mana...
Integrated gateway-server
Allowing users to look at both real-time electrical system data and historical use patterns through trend plots makes the Square D PowerLogic EGX300 integrated gateway-server a valuable tool. Made by Schneider Electric, the PowerLogic includes Ethernet capabilities, an embedded website creation function, and extensive on-board memory.
Centrifugal fan
Combining the design advantages of an axial fan with the air flow and pressure capabilities of a centrifugal fan forms the AXTC Fiberglass Tubular In-Line Centrifugal Fan. Made by M.K. Plastics, the AXTC can be used for fume exhaust and odor control. Equipped with multiple configuration options for duct or roof mounting, the fans are available in a wide range of sizes, from 18 to 60 in.
Bypass/isolation switch
For loads up to 3,000 amps, the 00572TEC bypass/isolation switch from Russelectric reduces the unit’s footprint by 50% in comparison to side-by-side designs. The bypass/isolation switch allows the operator to bypass directly to either the normal or emergency source regardless of the position or condition of the transfer switch.
Track lighting system
Created exclusively for the specification market, the Precision Two-Circuit Track System is engineered for high-performance commercial installations. Released by W2 Architectural Lighting, the track is made from extruded aluminum, with each circuit independently controlled and switched. Additionally, the Two-Circuit System can be mounted to ceilings or walls for high-profile jobs, and can be lo...
Thermostat operator
New operators that can be snapped on, requiring no tools, make Danfoss Heating’s RA 2000 thermostatic radiator valves significantly easier to install compared to previous models. The operators are gas-filled, reacting quicker to changing temperature than other fluids would, locking room temperature and increasing free heat distribution, which results in saved energy.
Batteries
Supply power for 15 min in back-up primary power systems applications with the DataSafe line of UPS valve-regulated lead acid batteries from EnerSys. The batteries produce 506 WPC for 15 min to 1.67 V/cell at 77 F. The device weighs 110 lbs and measures 13.4 x 6.8 x 10.8 in. The batteries feature high-conductivity recessed brass terminals, high-integrity terminal seals, and corrosion-resistant ...
Vacuum circuit breakers
Handle high-continuous ac current and voltage and switch through extreme out-of-phase voltages and high-stress asymmetrical currents with the generator vacuum circuit breakers from Eaton Corp. Designed for use in space- and weight-sensitive applications, including stand-alone switchgear, portable power substations, and draw-out breaker indoor switchgear, the generator breakers interrupt large s...
Power distribution unit – 2009-06-01
Support rack-mount applications with three-phase power with the HP14.4kVA power distribution unit from HP. The unit connects to a 50 amp, 3-phase circuit using the Hubbell CS8365C connector. The unit features a single input and 12 C19 outputs for connecting to servers, storage, and networking equipment.
Harvesting daylight and dollars
Addressing the growing need for sustainable design in commercial facilities, SHW Group redesigned its Dallas office in a manner consistent with its design principles—sustainability, basic architecture, and collaboration. SHW Group installed the Convia Sustainable Infrastructure from Convia Inc./Herman Miller Co. , Buffalo Grove, Ill. The infrastructure is a smart-building platform that features “plug-and-play” power to anywhere within a space without the need for hardwiring of devices or switches.
Smoke detector
Meant to be used in a location that's subject to extreme weather, the InnovairFlex Watertight smoke detector from System Sensor handles all temperatures and conditions. With the ability to operate in temperatures ranging from -4 to 158 F and air flow of 100 to 4,000 fpm, the InnovairFlex is perfect for a rooftop because it can simplify building maintenance and reduce costs generated by false al...
Emergency lighting unit
Designed for industrial and harsh environment emergency lighting needs, the Rhyno Series from Chloride Systems is available in 12 V and 24 V, and 200 to 450 W. A 120/277 dual-voltage input with surge protection and Intelli-Charge for self-diagnostics monitors all critical functions of the lighting unit.
Air conditioning control
Provide full-capacity modulation for all sizes of direct-expansion A/C system that use R-410A refrigerant with the APR-410 control from Rawal Devices Inc. The control continuously matches A/C system capacity/output to changing load conditions by varying refrigerant flow according to suction pressure, which changes the temperature of air crossing the coils. The control's designed applications include multiple-evaporator zoning, in which each evaporator conditions a different zone. www.rawal.com.
Daylight controller
Provide closed-loop, single zone, and on/off switching for most types of lighting in response to daylight contributions with the LS-102 daylighting controller from Watt Stopper/Legrand. The controller automatically calibrates itself, which eliminates the need for repeated manual calibrations to capture changing light levels.
Industrial fan – 2009-05-01
Designed for use in office and warehouse applications, the Alpha One fan from Air-Row Fan Co. fits in standard 2 x 2 ft or 2 x 4 ft ceiling grid systems. The fan can de-stratify, cool, and help dry wet floors in office or retail locations with low ceilings. The fan features a solid state, full-range rheostat for total cubic feet per minute control and thermal cutoff for automatic shutdown durin...
Signal connector
Designed for use in power supplies, servers, routers, one- and two-rack unit modular enclosures, and storage controllers, the EXTreme Ten60Power family of high-power connectors from Molex Inc reaches a current rating of 60A/blade at a 30-deg. T-rise. The connectors are housed in a 10-mm tall, coplanar and right-angle board-to-board orientation, which enhances system airflow.
Indoor unit
Allow for the use of conventional registers and grills connected to ductwork with the Mr. Slim P series PEA horizontal-ducted indoor units from Mitsubishi Electric HVAC. Available in 12,000 Btu/h cooling only and 12,000 to 18,000 Btu/h heat pump capacities, the unit hides equipment and reduces sound due to the barrier effect of ceiling/floor surfaces.
Cooling enclosure
Monitor and adjust cooling capacity to ensure proper serve inlet temperature with the InRow SC systems from APC by Schneider Electric. The enclosure can be deployed as a fully contained IT environment or as a partially contained system capable of retrofitting. The enclosure features 7 kW of cooling capacity, a 600-mm-wide rack enclosure, and front and rear containment options.
Letters – 2009-05-01
Transformer energy efficiency The article “Calculating the 'real' cost of ownership for transformers” in the Spring 2009 issue of Pure Power should be paid advertising, not editorial. It is little more than a blatant promotion for selling more expensive transformers. Just because Congress now mandates the use of National Electric Manufacturers Assn.
Polypropylene pipe
The advanced pipe wrap insulation from Aquatherm is a polypropylene pipe with an insulating R-value up to 1.5. Due to the reduced diameter of the insulated pipe, the piping system fits in tighter spaces than metal and fiberglass combinations. The pipe is equivalent to 1-1 www.aquathermpipe.com #4.
Thermostat
Control temperature and humidity with one device with the TCY3 Series from Vector Controls. The stand-alone controller has two control loops for two-and four-pipe HVAC systems. The device is configurable for each application through a on-board parameter-setting routine.
Official NCBC agenda now available
The 1 7th annual National Conference on Building Commissioning (NCBC) will take place from June 3-5 in Seattle. The show will feature commissioning themes of energy efficiency, persistence, and performance. Now available on NCBC's Web site, the conference agenda is packed with informative presentations, group discussions, workshops, and educational sessions. Registration for NCBC 2009 is available online.
Solar-powered plumbing products
Use PV technology and sunlight to charge an efficient capacitor and provide power to bathrooms with the SOLIS Flushometer and SOLIS faucet from Sloan. The flush control for water closets and urinals are available in single-and dual-flush models. The dual-flush model features two flush cycles: 1.6 gal.
News At A Glance – 2009-04-01
• The innovative environmental training program, GreenPlumbers, announced Grundfos Pumps Corp. as its founding partner. The GreenPlumbers training and accreditation program is open to all recognized plumbers and contractors. The program is partnered with the EPA's WaterSense program, the Alliance for Water Efficiency, the Calif.
Scroll compressor
The Type MLZ line of refrigeration, scroll compressors from Danfoss includes 11 models of medium-temperature scroll compressors for commercial refrigeration applications. The compressors feature cooling capacities from 13,000 to 102,000 Btuh and users select the fluorinated refrigerants, including R-22, R-134A, R-404A, and R-507. The line is available in compressor, condensing unit, and package unit designs. www.danfoss.us #7.
Solar industry grows, but future may not be so sunny
According to a New York Times article , solar energy capacity in the United States grew by 17% in 2008, according to preliminary report released by the Solar Energy Industries Assn . (SEIA). The recession has dried up the financing for many projects, but 2008 showed growth for a third consecutive year. The report notes that 1,265 MW of solar power of all types were installed in 2008, bringing total U.S.
AMCA International’s 2009/2010 Event Calendar
AMCA Midyear Meeting Sheraton ChicagoElk Grove Village, Ill.May 3-4, 2009 National Green Builders Product Expo Las VegasMay 28-29, 2009 AMCA 2009 Sound and Sound Testing Seminar AMCA International HeadquartersArlington Heights, Ill.June 1-3, 2009 National Fire Protection Assn. (NFPA) Conference & Expo ChicagoJune 8-11, 2009 AMCA International 54th Annual Meeting Fairmont TremblantMont Tremblant, Quebec, CanadaSeptember 10-12, 2009 U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Greenbuild PhoenixNovember 11-13, 2009 Big 5 Expo Dubai, UAENovember 23-27, 2009 AHR Expo OrlandoJanuary 25-27, 2010 AMCA Spring Meetings Marriott Plaza, San AntonioFebruary 28-March 3, 2010 Mostra Convegno Expo Comfort (MCE) Milan, ItalyMarch 23-27, 2010 AMCA International's 55th Annual Meeting Fairmont Turnberry Isle Resort & ClubAventura, Fla.October 14-17, 2010 AHR Expo Mexico Mexico CityOctober 26-28, 2010.
Indoor air handler
Available in capacities up to 100,000 cubic feet per minute with coil face areas up to 160 sq ft, the Extended-Size Vision indoor air handlers from McQuay International are designed for IAQ projects in healthcare facilities, schools, institutions, and retail spaces. The AHRI-certified units are available in dimensions up to 122 x 228 in and the handler's Variable Dimensioning feature allows cabinet sizing in increments of 4 in wide and 2 in high. www.mcquay.com #11.
DC converter
Protect against short circuits, overloads, and over temperatures with the DIN rail mount, XCSA line of DC to DC converters from Automation Systems Interconnect. The line of converters is available in versions with inputs ranging from 12-110 Vdc and outputs of 12 and 24 Vdc at 5 and 10 amps. The 12 and 24 Vdc converters feature a wide auto-ranging input, wide operating temperature range, and high efficiency.
ASHRAE announces Cx certification
Just as the commissioning process helps buildings and their systems operate optimally, ASHRAE’s newest certification recognizes those with optimal knowledge of the entire building commissioning process. ASHRAE’s Commissioning Process Management Professional launches in June at the Society’s 2009 Annual Conference in Louisville, Ky. The program helps building owners, developers, operators, and others recognize individuals capable of assuring that building systems and equipment are designed, installed, tested, operated, and maintained according to their operational needs. The program recognizes that people who manage the commissioning process need to have people- and project-management skills. The people must also have a level of knowledge and understanding of building design, construction, operations, and maintenance as they relate to the total building commissioning process. Developed with input from APPA , Building Commissioning Association , Illuminating Engineering Society of North America , National Environmental Balancing Bureau , Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association , Testing Adjusting and Balancing Bureau , and the University of Wisconsin- Madison, the program is the fourth in ASHRAE’s suite of certification offerings.
Voltage monitor
Protect single-phase equipment against low-and high-voltage conditions and rapid short-cycling with the ICM492 digital line voltage monitor from ICM Controls Corp. The monitor displays real-time voltage on a backlit digital display and has the ability to field-adjust parameters at the push of a button. The monitor displays RMS voltage and continuously checks incoming line voltage or faults.
NCCER announces the release of electrical hazards training module
The National Center for Construction Education and Researc h (NCCER) announced the release of the Contren Learning Series Managing Electrical Hazards module. Developed to help organizations respond to the 2009 edition of the national consensus standard— NFPA 70E Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace —the new NCCER module introduces trainees and their supervisors to electrical hazards in the workplace and how to avoid these hazards. Topics also include how to select specialized personal protective equipment for electrical work, how to analyze and document shock and arc flash hazards, and how to plan and conduct work around them. NCCER worked with subject matter experts representing the electrical industry and academia across the country to incorporate relevant industry material into the curriculum.
Athletic center aims high
In Oskaloosa, Iowa, William Penn University recently underwent the largest and greenest expansion in the private university's 135-year history. The project featured geothermal heating and cooling, fabric ductwork, energy recovery ventilators (ERVs), and advanced BAS. The recent additions help make the 155,000-sq-ft Penn Athletic Center (PAC) the most efficient building on campus.
NEBB seeks technical presentations
The National Environmental Balancing Bureau (NEBB) is seeking speaking proposals for the 2009 Annual Meeting and Educational Conference to be held Oct. 30 to Nov. 1 at the Oklahoma City Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center in Oklahoma City. The NEBB Annual Meeting and Educational Conference features prominent guest speakers and technical sessions designed to enhance the professional develop...
Industrial fan – 2009-04-01
Integrate electronic devices such as VESDA smoke detection, lights, cameras, and motion sensors on the platform of the Powerfoil X from Big Ass Fans. Hermetically sealed and filled with nitrogen, the fan's NitroSeal Drive is a gearbox designed for heaver load requirements. The fan's precision HeliCamber gearing provides low friction between gear teeth for reduced heat and 50% less backlash than a standard gearbox.
Occupancy sensors – 2009-04-01
Detect motion in aisle ways with the FS-705 wide-angle PIR occupancy sensor from Watt Stopper/Legrand. The sensor uses a passive infrared device that detects motion from two directions and covers an area of 30 by 14 ft. The senor's sensitivity adjusts to cover a 22 x 12 ft area.
Gas detection system
Collect, display, and act on data received from gas detection devices with the NFS2-3030 fire and gas detection system. The system interfaces to industry standard 4-20 mA devices using Notifier's FMM-4-20 module. The module connects to the detection system through the signaling line circuit, which is user-programmable for up to five different thresholds; fire, security, supervisory, non-fire trouble, pre-alarm, non-fire, and critical process. www.honeywell.com #13.
Consulting-Specifying Engineer’s 40 Under 40 Nomination form
Consulting-Specifying Engineer magazine is dedicated to encouraging and recognizing the most talented young individuals in the engineering community supporting the building industry. We want to shape the future of young engineers, and will do so by recognizing and encouraging them through mentoring articles in the magazine, young engineer networking events, and the 40 Under 40 program. To help recognize young engineers and to improve engineering recruitment in your company or organization, we encourage you to nominate a talented young engineer. Consulting-Specifying Engineer magazine is looking for 40 of the most innovative engineers under the age of 40.
Contact Us – 2008-12-02 – 2008-12-02
For general mail, the magazine's postal address is: Consulting-Specifying Engineer 2000 Clearwater DriveOak Brook, IL 60523 Editorial Advertising Production Marketing Licensing and Syndication Editorial We want to hear from you. Please contact us to provide feedback regarding editorial content. If you're interested in submitting an article idea , please review our author's guidelines prior to contacting us.
A step above
In judging Consulting-Specifying Engineer's seventh annual Advancing, Reinvigorating, and Cultivating excellence in engineering (ARC Awards), we bestowed five awards: three for new construction and two for renovation/reconstruction. The achievements demonstrated by the winning projects stand out in the engineering community.
Lego group builds mini Olympic model
It may not set any world records, but this plastic village spares no detail. The Hong Kong Lego User Group paid homage to the Beijing Olympics with a series of models. View pictures of the Olympic Stadium (the “Bird’s nest”), Olympic Village, National Aquatics Center (water cube), and residence buildings.
Inside the water cube
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Bird’s nest from above
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Science in sustainability to be discussed at Greenbuild
Greenbuild International Conference & Expo’s closing plenary, Science in Sustainability, will take place on Friday, Nov. 21, 2008.
Ask the experts: Engineering shortage
Ask the experts : Engineering shortage In 2007, a CSE editorial on a perceived engineering shortage drew a lengthy exchange of letters regarding the working conditions of engineers and opposing views of the shortage itself. What type of shortage are you experiencing, if any? Do you have questions about recruiting and hiring good interns and entry-level engineers? Click here to post your question for the experts to answer.
Ask the experts: Laboratory ventilation
Ask the experts : Laboratory ventilation Lab ventilation is energy intensive and is inherently a life-safety system that protects workers against caustic, biological, or other types of hazards. How is safety maximized and costs optimized? What challenges are you facing on your current project? How do you save money—and remain environmentally friendly—for your clients? Click here to post your question for the experts to answer.
Ask the experts: Mission critical power
Ask the experts : Mission critical power Uptime is all the time and the greener the better. Energy efficiency and reliability are becoming requirements as energy costs have begun to drive equipment selection. What are the market conditions, codes, standards, and regulations driving uptime up and energy use down? How do you encourage your clients to be more green? Click here to post your question for the experts to answer.
Ask the experts: Building information modeling
Ask the experts : Building information modeling BIM is an emerging software environment for designing systems and transferring the knowledge obtained during the construction process into data useful for operations and maintenance. Have you used it yet? What do engineers need to know now? What are users’ experiences with BIM? Click here to post your question for the experts to answer.
Air conditioning contract awarded for Freedom Tower
McQuay International has been awarded a contract valued at nearly $15 million to supply air conditioning equipment for the Freedom Tower building in New York City.
Engineers battle NYC mayor over building commissioner position
The mayor wants to drop the requirement in the City Charter that only a registered architect or licensed engineer can hold the position, according to the New York Times. By doing so, Mayor Bloomberg hopes to deepen the pool of commissioner candidates.
Greenbuild International Conference & Expo held in Boston
The U.S. Green Building Council’s Greenbuild International Conference & Expo will be held in Boston, Nov. 19-21, 2008.
Federal construction wishlists total $8.6 billion
Federal agencies released their wishlists for more than 160 construction projects in the Washington, D.C., area during the next six years. Twenty-six of the projects are on the lists for the first time, including a $900 million expanded military medical complex, a $380 million space engineering facility, and a $170 renovation to the Smithsonian Castle.
New York City cracks down on fire code violators
Several commercial buildings have outstanding fire code violations, resulting in the arrest of more than 100 people this month alone.
Archbishop Desmond Tutu to keynote Greenbuild International Conference & Expo
The U.S. Green Building Council has announced Archbishop Desmond Tutu as the opening Keynote speaker for USGBC’s annual Greenbuild Conference & Expo.
Electricity from industrial waste
Industrial waste heat is being recycled into electricity at Southern Methodist University.
Univ. of Wyoming wins national BIM award
The University of Wyoming's College of Engineering and Applied Science architectural engineering program received a national award for its innovative design curriculum facilitated by Building Information Modeling.
LEED 2009 open for public comment
The U.S. Green Building Council has opened LEED 2009 for public comment.
Tips for a successful ARC Awards entry
Adapted from Building Design + Constructions "How to Win" Tip Sheet
2008 ARC Awards entry rules
Please find an official entry form here . All information on the entry form must be completed. An entry fee payment of $200 must accompany each entry, in addition to the supporting materials listed below.
Consulting-Specifying Engineer 2008 Product of the Year Finalists Voting Now Open
This year marks the fourth annual staging of Consulting-Specifying Engineer's Product of the Year contest, with more entrants than ever. As in the past, Consulting-Specifying Engineer convened a panel of consulting engineers as judges to determine the finalists. Our judges determined three finalists in each category and voters will decide the winners in each category, along with voting for the Most Valuable Product award.
An eye to the sky
The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center can help you plan for power outages.
Philly engineers to be honored at ceremony
The American Society of Civil Engineers Philadelphia Section will honor several engineers at its awards ceremony held during the ASCE Annual Spring Social on Thursday, May 15.
Hearst Tower adopts ‘target zero-waste’ policy
Aggressive recycling and composting initiative will eliminate organic material being sent to landfills.
Blades spin on Bahrain World Trade Center
The Bahrain World Trade Center made history last week as the turbines on this pioneering project turned together for the first time.
World’s largest LED chandelier illuminated
The world’s Largest LED chandelier illuminated at Stanley Center for the Arts in Utica, N.Y.
Last chance to nominate a young engineer to 40 Under 40 program
Consulting-Specifying Engineer magazine is looking for 40 of the most innovative engineers under the age of 40. Do you qualify? Nominations due Friday, April 11.
L.A. building projects get streamlined
Los Angeles leaders recently unveiled a plan to cut the number of agencies—from 12 to two—that must approve real estate projects.
Change the world: Turn off your lights for 1 hour on March 29
Sign up for Earth Hour, scheduled for March 29, 2008.
Code Council Developing Green Building Professional Certification
The International Code Council announced that it is developing a green building professional certification exam to demonstrate code officials' ability to understand the application of green building technology and assess adherence with green building programs.
2008 Consulting Specifying Engineer Product of the Year Finalists
2008 Consulting-Specifying Engineer Product of the Year Finalists Building Automation Controls TAC: TAC Xenta 700 SeriesSiemens: Apogee Wireless v2Honeywell International: WebStat Controller Electrical Distribution Eaton: PRC 7500 Tenant MonitoringWiremold/Legrand: Ballroom BoxHubbel Wiring Device-Kellens: Pre-Wired Raceway HVAC Unical for AERCO: Modulex BoilersYork by Johnson Controls: York Tempo Air-Cooled Scroll ChillersAAON: R-410A D-PAC Motors, Starters, Drives Schneider Electric: S-FLEXEaton:Eaton: Flash Gard Motor Control Center Power Generation Katolight: 3250 KW Engine GensetGenerac Power Systems, Inc: Gemini Twin Pack GensetCummins Power Generation: iWatch Wireless Communications Bosch Security Systems, Inc: VideoJet X Video Encoder SeriesEmerson Network Power: Liebert vNSAEaton: Power XPert Gateway 400 Fire Protection Fike: ProInertKidde Fire Systems: AEGISMetraflex Co: NeverTrip Lighting Lithonia Lighting: ES8Cooper Lighting: Metalux Modular F-BayLutron Electronics: QS System Plumbing Zurn Engineered Water Solutions: Zurn EcoVantage Pint Urinal SystemLochinvar Corp: ARMOR Condensing Water HeaterAO Smith: Cyclone Xi Software: Design, Model, Analysis EDSA Micro Corp: Paladin DesignBase Version 1.2Operation Technology, Inc: ETAP Real-Time Energy Management SystemEaton: Power XPert Architecture Test Instruments, Meters, Data Loggers Schneider Electric: PowerLogic Tenant Sub-Billing SoftwareFluke: Fluke 289 True-rms Industrial Logging MultimeterSchneider Electric:Square D PowerLogic PM 800 Series Power Meter.
NEBB issues call for speakers
The National Environmental Balancing Bureau is seeking speaking proposals for the 2008 Annual Meeting and Educational Conference.
Awards & Distinctions
Consulting-Specifying Engineer's recognition programs and industry awards.