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December 2016

Figure 4: A section of the MDC unit shows the hot and cold aisles along with electrical and mechanical equipment locations and access paths for maintenance. Image courtesy: CH2M

Case study: Modular data center units improve energy efficiency

The National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD)’s project to create a modular data center (MDC) solution, also provides energy-saving benefits. » more

An exploded view of one enclosure building with the concrete structure housing the electrical and mechanical equipment, the 16 MDCs with the core MDC, and the shade structure. Image courtesy: CH2M

Case study: The National Bank of Abu Dhabi Showcase project

The National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD) implemented a multi-phase project for a modular data center (MDC) solution. » more

A rendering of phase one and two of the Barajeels project shows the administration building flanked by four enclosure buildings. Each enclosure building contains premanufactured electrical and mechanical equipment skids on the ground floor with 16 MDC un

How to choose a modular data center

Modular data centers can be cost-effective, scalable options. There are several variables to consider, however, when comparing them to brick-and-mortar facilities. » more

MEP Roundtable Resopondents

Battling the complexity of designing government facilities: HVAC

The government can be a tough customer, and the projects that state, municipal, federal, and military entities approach engineers about are highly complex. Here, engineers with experience tackling such tall orders offer advice… » more

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November 2016

Building a winning team

Mentoring, training, and educating entry- and mid-level engineering team members will pay off in the long run. » more

2015 base annual salary South Atlantic region professionally licensed engineers Courtesy: Consulting-Specifying Engineer

What do engineers in the South Atlantic earn?

The Consulting-Specifying Engineer 2016 Salary Survey indicated that 25% of professionally licensed engineers in the South Atlantic region earned between $100,000 to $124,999. » more

Figure 1: In this main switchboard room, switchboards targeted for replacement are shown. All graphics courtesy: CannonDesign

Assessing replacement of electrical systems

Replacement of electrical systems is a study of economics and risk. Factors including age, safety, reliability, efficiency, and energy costs must be weighed in conjunction with replacement costs and liability risk to formulate… » more

Figure 2: This figure shows which states allow the use of COMcheck software to show compliance with the energy code. Courtesy: U.S. Department of Energy

Energy codes and lighting

Lighting designers have many resources when designing energy-efficient lighting in nonresidential buildings. Designers do not have to sacrifice quality or reduce lighting levels just to meet energy codes.  » more

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October 2016

Dan Carnovale is manager of Eaton Experience Centers, which focus on training young electrical engineers. He is an industry-recognized expert in power quality and energy management who has taught more than 100 technical seminars.

The coming engineering shortage

The engineering industry must address the skills gap. » more

The design process for higher education facilities has its own set of challenges and requirements. Engineers discuss the current trends, challenges, and experiences with college and university facility projects regarding HVAC. Courtesy: Cannon Design

Exploring the high demands for higher education facilities: HVAC

The design process for higher education facilities has its own set of challenges and requirements. Engineers discuss the current trends, challenges, and experiences with college and university facility projects regarding HVAC. » more

The design process for higher education facilities has its own set of challenges and requirements. Engineers discuss the current trends, challenges, and experiences with college and university facility projects regarding sustainable buildings/energy effic

Exploring the high demands for higher education facilities: sustainable buildings/energy efficiency

The design process for higher education facilities has its own set of challenges and requirements. Engineers discuss the current trends, challenges, and experiences with college and university facility projects regarding… » more

Figure 2: The diagram shows a typical dual low-water temperature boiler piping return. The lower the return water, the higher the boiler efficiency.

Evaluating low-temperature water-heating options

To take advantage of HVAC energy savings, engineers must change their thinking on heating-water temperatures, as the trend drives toward greater sustainability.  » more

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September 2016

Successful controls integration can be a challenge in both new construction and renovation projects. Laboratory facilities present unique challenges with critical lab spaces and non-lab areas that include both traditional building automation systems (BAS)

Integrated control systems for labs

Successful controls integration can be a challenge in both new construction and renovation projects. Laboratory facilities present unique challenges with critical lab spaces and non-lab areas that include both traditional… » more

Incorporating set thermal comfort criteria provides many benefits while increasing the use of high-performance HVAC systems for energy reduction. Courtesy: DLR Group

Analyzing nontraditional HVAC systems

Incorporating set thermal comfort criteria provides many benefits while increasing the use of high-performance HVAC systems for energy reduction. » more

Figure 9: This graph illustrates hours above 75°F with operable windows used when outside air conditions can maintain a comfortable space temperature, with cooling capacity or airflow at 50%. Courtesy: DLR Group

Case study: Schools’ air conditioning

Scenarios are studied to ensure thermal comfort criteria in classrooms. » more

Even in 10 of engineers are responsible for determining requirements/writing specifications, researching and evaluating options, and/or supervising or consulting on these projects. Courtesy: Consulting-Specifying Engineer

HVAC, BAS in office buildings

Seven in 10 of engineers are responsible for determining requirements/writing specifications, researching and evaluating options, and/or supervising or consulting on these projects. » more

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August 2016

Facing the challenges of mixed-use buildings: electrical/lighting/power and fire/life safety

Fulfilling the demands of a mixed-use facility can be challenging, considering the structure’s diverse components. Here, professionals with experience on such projects share advice and explain how to end up with positive results… » more

Fulfilling the demands of a mixed-use facility can be challenging, considering the structure’s diverse components. Here, professionals with experience on such projects share advice and explain how to end up with positive results for energy efficiency. Cou

Facing the challenges of mixed-use buildings: sustainable buildings/energy efficiency

Fulfilling the demands of a mixed-use facility can be challenging, considering the structure’s diverse components. Here, professionals with experience on such projects share advice and explain how to end up with positive results… » more

Fulfilling the demands of a mixed-use facility can be challenging, considering the structure’s diverse components. Here, professionals with experience on such projects share advice and explain how to end up with positive results for specialty buildings an

Facing the challenges of mixed-use buildings: HVAC

Fulfilling the demands of a mixed-use facility can be challenging, considering the structure’s diverse components. Here, professionals with experience on such projects share advice and explain how to end up with positive results… » more

Facing the challenges of mixed-use buildings: codes and standards

Fulfilling the demands of a mixed-use facility can be challenging, considering the structure’s diverse components. Here, professionals with experience on such projects share advice and explain how to end up with positive results… » more

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July 2016

Changing for the better

Though change might be stressful, it often can lead to bigger and better opportunities. » more

Young engineers are an important resource for firms—recruiting, training, and retaining fresh talent is important for a company’s future success. Here, engineers with experience in attracting and developing new talent share advice to help their profession

The future of professional engineers: talent and career preparation

Young engineers are an important resource for firms—recruiting, training, and retaining fresh talent is important for a company’s future success. Here, engineers with experience in attracting and developing new talent share… » more

WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff executives like Paul Meyer (center) take a hands-on approach to mentoring young engineers and work closely with their teams. Courtesy: WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff

The future of professional engineers: communication

Young engineers are an important resource for firms—recruiting, training, and retaining fresh talent is important for a company’s future success. Here, engineers with experience in attracting and developing new talent share… » more

Younger engineers on staff with EYP Architecture & Engineering get professional assistance from more senior engineers—and from each other, in the form of studying groups. Courtesy: EYP

The future of professional engineers: retention

Young engineers are an important resource for firms—recruiting, training, and retaining fresh talent is important for a company’s future success. Here, engineers with experience in attracting and developing new talent share… » more

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June 2016

Figure 3: This depicts the basic concept of a fuel cell system. Courtesy: WSP + ccrd

NFPA 99: Electrical changes to the 2015 edition

NFPA 99: Health Care Facilities Code (2015 edition) covers a broad range of criteria for health care facilities. Electrical engineers need details about the changes to the electrical portion of the code.  » more

The design of high-performance medical and educational projects are challenging and need to meet specific standards, codes, and trends. A major trend is designing buildings that are energy efficient and sustainable. Courtesy: Consulting-Specifying Engine

High-performance medical and educational building design: Sustainable buildings/energy efficiency

The design of high-performance medical and educational projects are challenging and need to meet specific standards, codes, and trends. A major trend is designing buildings that are energy-efficient and sustainable.  » more

The design of high-performance medical and educational projects are challenging and need to meet specific standards, codes, and trends. A major trend is designing buildings that are energy efficient and sustainable. Courtesy: Consulting-Specifying Engine

High-performance medical and educational building design: HVAC

The design of high-performance medical and educational projects are challenging and need to meet specific standards, codes, and trends. There can be unique HVAC system requirements for high-performance buildings.  » more

Wade W. Smith led the DOE’s rulemaking negotiations for the fan industry. He now consults on related questions with HVAC manufacturers and component suppliers. Courtesy: Wade W. Smith Consulting LLC

Regulation of commercial, industrial fan efficiency

The new proposed Department of Energy standard will drive changes on how engineers design air systems for peak fan efficiency. » more

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May 2016

This depicts the three-way variable frequency drive enclosure’s comparative control parameters with constant and variable cooling-airflow rate. Courtesy: Advanced Research Technology

Sizing VFDs for optimal operating efficiency

A new control strategy and implementation system optimize variable frequency drive (VFD) efficiency to meet cooling-air requirements. » more

Figure 2: When working on stand-alone medical structures, converting an existing space can be a challenge—especially if the previous space was a nonmedical structure. Courtesy: Camille Sylvain Thompson, Peter Basso Associates

Stand-alone health care buildings: HVAC

Stand-alone medical buildings and specialized treatment facilities are engineering challenges, and more are being designed and built due to changes in health care requirements. Indoor air quality, indoor environmental quality,… » more

Figure 2: When working on stand-alone medical structures, converting an existing space can be a challenge—especially if the previous space was a nonmedical structure. Courtesy: Camille Sylvain Thompson, Peter Basso Associates

Stand-alone health care buildings: Sustainability

Stand-alone medical buildings and specialized treatment facilities are engineering challenges, and more are being designed and built due to changes in health care requirements. Sustainable design often is top-of-mind for… » more

Stand-alone medical buildings and specialized treatment facilities are engineering challenges, and more are being designed and built due to changes in health care requirements. Codes and standards dictate much of the design of these facilities. Courtesy:

Stand-alone health care buildings: Fire and life safety

Stand-alone medical buildings and specialized treatment facilities are engineering challenges, and more are being designed and built due to changes in health care requirements. Here’s a look at fire and life safety systems.  » more

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April 2016

The design of this 7th-floor data center, handled by engineers from AlfaTech Consulting Engineers, includes a built-up cooling system. Courtesy: AlfaTech Consulting Engineers

Data centers’ intricate design: HVAC

Data centers are important structures that hold vital information for businesses, schools, public agencies, and private individuals. HVAC systems must be designed with efficiency in mind.  » more

Figure 1: Currently operating with a PUE of less than 1.1, the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center 1100 Eastlake Data Center draws 100% outside supply air for “free cooling” during roughly 90% of annual operating hours. Courtesy: Affiliated Engineers I

Data centers’ intricate design: Sustainability

Data centers are important structures that hold vital information for businesses, schools, public agencies, and private individuals. Energy-efficient designs frequently are requested by building owners.  » more

International data center projects handled by engineers at CH2M Hill include the facility at the Sinnovate Technology Hub in King Abdulla Economic City in Saudi Arabia. Courtesy: CH2M Hill

Data centers’ intricate design: Fire and life safety

Data centers are important structures that hold vital information for businesses, schools, public agencies, and private individuals. Fire suppression systems must be carefully designed.  » more

Figure 2: The design of this 7th-floor data center, handled by engineers from AlfaTech Consulting Engineers, includes a built-up cooling system. Courtesy: AlfaTech Consulting Engineers

Data centers’ intricate design: Codes and standards

Data centers are important structures that hold vital information for businesses, schools, public agencies, and private individuals. A variety of codes and standards guide engineers in designing these data centers.  » more

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March 2016

K-12 schools are among the most important projects engineers can tackle. Professionals focus on energy efficiency design advice for educational facilities. Courtesy: CMTA Engineers

Enhancing the learning experience in K-12 schools: Sustainability and energy efficiency

K-12 schools are among the most important projects engineers can tackle. Professionals focus on energy efficiency design advice for educational facilities. » more

K-12 schools are among the most important projects engineers can tackle. Fire and life safety—including mass notification systems, fire suppression, and emergency communication systems—are discussed. Courtesy: Setty

Enhancing the learning experience in K-12 schools: Fire and life safety

K-12 schools are among the most important projects engineers can tackle. Fire and life safety—including mass notification systems, fire suppression, and emergency communication systems—are discussed.  » more

K-12 schools are among the most important projects engineers can tackle. Professionals with expertise in electrical, power, and lighting, offer design advice for educational facilities. Courtesy: CannonDesign

Enhancing the learning experience in K-12 schools: Electrical and power systems

K-12 schools are among the most important projects engineers can tackle. Professionals with expertise in electrical, power, and lighting, offer design advice for educational facilities. » more

K-12 schools are among the most important projects engineers can tackle. Mechanical engineers focus on HVAC systems, including unique heating and cooling options, building envelope, and air quality. Courtesy: CMTA Engineers

Enhancing the learning experience in K-12 schools: HVAC

K-12 schools are among the most important projects engineers can tackle. Mechanical engineers focus on HVAC systems, including unique heating and cooling options, building envelope, and air quality. » more

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January/February 2016

Figure 3: With its Blue Cross Center, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska wanted to consolidate operations from three different buildings into a single campus headquarters, providing a flexible, pleasant working environment to complement human needs and ac

Class A office building system design: HVAC

Class A office buildings are among the toughest projects an engineer can work on—complex structures, demanding clients, and advanced technology. HVAC systems are a key component of these office buildings.  » more

Figure 5: The 25-story, 950,000-sq-ft multitenant office tower at Al Hilal Bank in Abu Dhabi includes an all-glass building envelope with high floor-to-floor heights, which presented a unique challenge in developing effective and sustainable engineered so

Class A office building system design: Sustainability, energy efficiency

Class A office buildings are among the toughest projects an engineer can work on—complex structures, demanding clients, and advanced technology. Building owners want the most energy-efficient building possible. » more

Figure 2: The refuge floors on the Kingdom Tower project in Saudi Arabia have fire command centers with the capabilities of the main fire command center at the ground level so that all conditions and communications can be managed from any of the refuge fl

Class A office building system design: Fire and life safety

Class A office buildings are among the toughest projects an engineer can work on—complex structures, demanding clients, and advanced technology. Fire protection engineers frequently face unique fire and life safety challenges.  » more

Figure 4: The John Hancock Center is a 100-story building in Chicago. The building includes Class A office space, residential condominiums, restaurants, retail space, and an observatory on the 94th floor. The building was completed in 1972. The building i

Class A office building system design: Electrical, power, and lighting

Class A office buildings are among the toughest projects an engineer can work on—complex structures, demanding clients, and advanced technology. Electrical engineers have their work cut out for them. » more

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