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the latest power technologies.

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engineers and factory experts our technical gurus know the ins and outs of power
generation like no one else in the industry. Every day we create and apply innovative
and proven solutions for all your needs, no matter the scale or complexity.

Need a guru for your power needs? Contact your local Cummins distributor or
learn more at power.cummins.com/technicalgurus.

2017 Cummins Inc. All rights reserved. Cummins is a registered trademark of Cummins Inc.

input #1 at www.csemag.com/information
 2017 Siemens Industry, Inc.

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enclosed switchgear that provides racking and maintenance mode activation)
Ease of use large (22) HMI display and intuitively designed
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Active power quality monitoring with user configurable alarms
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MEET PURGEnVENT
and MEET NEW NFPA 13
CODE REQUIREMENTS

Model 7900AAV

Model 7950ILV

New NFPA 13 code requires venting of excess air from wet fire sprinkler systems to help prevent
corrosion. AGF PURGEnVENT Air Venting Valves are designed to exceed the requirements of the
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input #3 at www.csemag.com/information
 APRIL 2017

FEATURES
36 | Using BIM
for project coordination
BIM is used frequently when work-
ing across multiple disciplines, which
ON THE COVER: Different ceiling heights and open floor plans can prevent clashes across mechani-
require coordination of sprinklers and fire alarm notification cal, electrical, plumbing, and fire
appliances within the Graton Resort & Casino, Rohnert Park, protection engineering and with
Calif. Using a BIM model approach to this type of project
other stakeholders.
saved time and effort while also allowing the design team to
better coordinate systems within the building. Courtesy: DEREK MAIN
JBA Consulting Engineers, an NV5 Co.

COVER STORY 42 | Networked

30 | Coordinating fire protection lighting controls
designs via BIM With the advent of building technol-
ogy comes the need for monitoring
BIM can be a very powerful tool in the design and construc-
and intercommunication between
tion industry. It takes 2-D information far beyond just a 3-D
heating, cooling, electrical, lighting,
environment. It places the tool of a database or model in
fire/life safety, and other systems for
the hands of fire protection engineers, giving them the ben-
optimized efficiency and operation.
efit of what they want to achieve within the BIM model.
ROBERT J. GARRA JR., PE, CDT
ALLYN VAUGHN, PE, FSFPE, LEED AP

47 | Vote for this years

2017
DEPARTMENTS
best products
05 | Viewpoint 26 | Codes & Standards
Who will win gold in 2017? Consulting-
Why work with Designing sprinkler systems Specifying Engineer announces the
Generation Y? for maintainability finalists for the 13th annual Product of
07 | Research the Year competition, and readers will
75 | Digital Edition
have the final word. Cast your votes
HVAC, BAS in industrial Exclusive
online at www.csemag.com/votepoy.
facilities Clean agent fire suppres-
AMANDA PELLICCIONE and CHRIS VAVRA
sion for mission critical
09 | Career Smart facilities
Three steps to updating
your LinkedIn profile 79 | Advertiser Index ENGINEERING DISCIPLINES
80 | Future of Use the icons to identify topics of interest.
10 | MEP Roundtable
Engineering AUTOMATION & CONTROLS HVAC
Analyzing data centers
Emerging wireless COMMUNICATIONS LIGHTING
20 | Codes & Standards technologies in building ELECTRICAL PLUMBING
Whats new to NFPA 13 and automation
FIRE, SECURITY & LIFE SAFETY
what to expect in the future

CONSULTING-SPECIFYING ENGINEER (ISSN 0892-5046, Vol. 54, No. 3, GST #123397457) is published 11x per year, monthly except in February, by CFE Media, LLC, 1111 W. 22nd Street, Suite
#250, Oak Brook, IL 60523. Jim Langhenry, Group Publisher /Co-Founder; Steve Rourke CEO/COO/Co-Founder. CONSULTING-SPECIFYING ENGINEER copyright 2017 by CFE Media, LLC. All rights reserved. CONSULTING-
SPECIFYING ENGINEER is a registered trademark of CFE Media, LLC used under license. Periodicals postage paid at Oak Brook, IL 60523 and additional mailing offices. Circulation records are maintained at CFE Media, LLC, 1111
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in the USA. CFE Media, LLC does not assume and hereby disclaims any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions in the material contained herein, regardless of whether such errors result from
negligence, accident or any other cause whatsoever.

www.csemag.com Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 3

 Packing more power into the
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input #4 at www.csemag.com/information
 Editors Viewpoint
CONTENT SPECIALISTS/EDITORIAL
AMARA ROZGUS, Editor-in-Chief/Content Manager
630-571-4070 x2211, ARozgus@CFEMedia.com
EMILY GUENTHER, Associate Content Manager
630-571-4070 x2220, EGuenther@CFEMedia.com
AMANDA PELLICCIONE, Director of Research
APelliccione@CFEMedia.com
MICHAEL SMITH, Creative Director
630-779-8910, MSmith@CFEmedia.com
ELISA GEISHEIMER, Production Coordinator
630-571-4070 x2213, EGeisheimer@CFEMedia.com
Amara Rozgus,
Editor-in-Chief
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
CORY J. ABRAMOWICZ, PE, LEED AP,
Associate, Environmental Systems Design Inc., Chicago

Why work with Generation Y?

PETER ALSPACH, PE, LEED AP BD+C,
Principal, Mechanical Engineer, Arup, Seattle
JERRY BAUERS, PE,

G
Vice President, NV5/Sebesta, Kansas City, Mo.
MICHAEL CHOW, PE, LEED AP BD+C, eneration Y, aka millennials, know scattered throughout the casu-
Principal, Metro CD Engineering LLC, Columbus, Ohio has some oddities, to be sure. al roundtable, there also were several
TOM DIVINE, PE,
Senior Electrical Engineer, But doesnt every generation? very well-thought-out insights that
Smith Seckman Reid Inc., Houston Millennials are some of the most came from the conversation.
CORY DUGGIN, PE, LEED AP BD+C, BEMP,
Energy Modeling Wizard, TLC Engineering for Architecture Inc., connected people around, exploring The group included profession-
Brentwood, Tenn. some new and yet uncharted digital alsengineers, engineers in training,
ROBERT J. GARRA JR., PE, CDT,
Vice President, Electrical Engineer, territory. They like to be connected, and recent graduateswith varied
CannonDesign, Grand Island, N.Y. both online and off, but theyre not engineering backgrounds. They all
JASON GERKE, PE, LEED AP BD+C, C X A,
Mechanical Engineer, GRAEF, Milwaukee tethered to, say, paid cable TV. The felt they had a role in the projects
JOSHUA D. GREENE, PE, majority lives in urban areas, and is they worked on; no one felt they were
Vice President, Jensen Hughes, Framingham, Mass.
migrating from suburbia to urban doing meaningless work without
RAYMOND GRILL, PE, FSFPE,
Principal, Arup, Washington, D.C. areas. impact. They worked in project teams
DANNA JENSEN, PE, LEED AP BD+C, with mixed levels of experience.
Vice President, ccrd, a WSP Co., Dallas
WILLIAM KOFFEL, PE, FSFPE,
Yet the assumptions about the mil- And they all had opinions on how
President, Koffel Associates Inc., Columbia, Md. lennial generation continue to circu- to improve in their jobs and in their
WILLIAM KOSIK, PE, CEM, LEED AP BD+C, BEMP,
Senior Mechanical Engineer - Mission Critical,
late: interaction with others, including
exp US Services Inc., Chicago manufacturers.
KENNETH KUTSMEDA, PE, LEED AP,
Engineering Manager, Jacobs, Philadelphia
 Generation Y wont make a phone Each professional had the theo-
JULIANNE LAUE, PE, LEED AP BD+C, BEMP, call or have a face-to-face conver- retical knowledge needed to design
Senior MEP Engineer, Center for Sustainable Energy,
Mortenson Construction, Minneapolis
sation to resolve an issue systems in buildings, and their col-
DAVID LOWREY, laborative environment gave them the
Chief Fire Marshal, Boulder (Colo.) Fire Rescue
 Millennials know only how to practical knowledge they needed to
BRIAN MARTIN, PE,
Senior Electrical Engineer, Buildings and Places, complete a design via a software succeed. The open dialogue that flew
AECOM, Portland, Ore.
program; theyve never seen a around the table showed the trust,
DWAYNE G. MILLER, PE, RCDD, AEE CPQ,
Chief Executive Officer, JBA Consulting Engineers, Las Vegas project in real life strong mentoring approach, and prac-
RODNEY V. OATHOUT, PE, CEM, LEED AP, tical tack this firm employed concern-
Principal, Regional Engineering Leader,
DLR Group, Overland Park, Kan.  Team discussions dont happen ing its junior members.
FREDDY PADILLA, PE, ATD, everyone just texts each other. Without giving away their company
Principal/Senior Electrical Engineer, Page, Austin, Texas
SYED PEERAN, PE, PhD,
secrets or divulging the incredible
Senior Engineer, CDM Smith Inc., Boston Ive seen the exact opposite. On feedback they provided our team, I
GREGORY QUINN, PE, NCEES, LEED AP,
Principal, Health Care Market Leader,
a recent trip to Washington, D.C., I can provide at least one important
Affiliated Engineers Inc., Madison, Wis. visited with eight young professionals thing: The next generation of consult-
BRIAN A. RENER, PE, LEED AP,
Associate, SmithGroupJJR, Chicago
who debunked nearly every negative ing engineers is a smart, thoughtful,
SUNONDO ROY, PE, LEED AP BD+C, assumption. While there were plenty engaging group. And yes, theyll pick
Vice President, CCJM Engineers Ltd., Chicago of words such as like and you up the phone if you call.
RANDY SCHRECENGOST, PE, CEM,
Austin Operations Group Manager and
Senior Mechanical Engineer,
Stanley Consultants, Austin, Texas
RICHARD VEDVIK, PE,
Senior Electrical Engineer and Acoustics Engineer,
KJWW Engineering Consultants, Rock Island, Ill.
MIKE WALTERS, PE, LEED AP,
Campus Energy Market Leader, MEP Associates, Verona, Wis.
JOHN YOON, PE, LEED AP ID+C,
Lead Electrical Engineer, McGuire Engineers Inc., Chicago www.csemag.com Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 5
MACH-ProView
people and technology you can rely on.
input #5 at www.csemag.com/information
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 Impact of changing codes,
standards on future fire,
life safety systems
Not a challenge Definitely a
challenge

32%
6%
23%
39%
Somewhat A challenge
of a challenge
Figure 1: The majority of engi-
neers believe that keeping up with
updates to codes and standards is
challenging and greatly affecting the
future of fire and life safety systems,
engineers, and/or the industry.
Source: Consulting-Specifying Engi-
neer 2016 Fire and Life Safety Study
1
/3 of engineers currently specify
electrical inspection and test equip-
ment. Source: Consulting-Specifying
Engineer 2016 Electrical and Power
Study
2015 HVAC AND BAS STUDY:
HVAC, BAS in industrial facilities
F
ifty-seven percent of respon-
dents to the Consulting-Specifying
Engineer 2015 HVAC and Build-
ing Automation Systems (BAS) Study
specify, design, or select products for
industrial/manufacturing facilities/
warehousesand seven in 10 of these
engineers are responsible for determin-
ing requirements/writing specifications
and/or supervising or consulting on
these projects. Below are five HVAC
and BAS findings:
1. Annual specified products value:
The average engineering firm specifies
$2.46 million in total HVAC and build-
ing automation/control products for
new and existing industrial facilities on
a yearly basis, with one-quarter of these
firms specifying more than $5 million.
2. Future of HVAC systems, BAS:
Looking ahead to future industrial
facility projects, HVAC system design
research
by designing for interoperability and
complementing systems (69%).
3. Researching systems: The average
mechanical engineer spends 31% of their
billable hours researching and/or specify-
ing HVAC systems and BAS for industri-
al facilities. These engineers mostly refer
to product specifications, best practices,
and training/education during this time.
4. Important product considerations:
When selecting HVAC products for
industrial facilities, engineers compare
product quality (83%), energy efficiency
of a product (63%), and service support
offerings (56%).
5. HVAC, BAS specifications: Engi-
neering firms most often write perfor-
mance (83%), prescriptive (73%), or open
(alternate or substitute; 63%) HVAC and
controls specifications for industrial facil-
ity projects.
View more information at

1 in 5 engineering firms
specifies less than $100,000 in light-
will be most affected by energy effi-
ciency requirements (56%), while
BAS will continue to be challenged
www.csemag.com/2015HVACBAS.
Amanda Pelliccione is the research director
at CFE Media.
ing and lighting control products for
new and existing buildings. Source: HVAC equipment, BAS, control systems
Consulting-Specifying Engineer 2017 recently specified into industrial facilities
Lighting and Lighting Controls Study
Pumps, pumping systems 76%
Fans, air movement 7
73%
Air handlers 7
72%

62% of mechanical engineers

recommend the brand of HVAC sys-
BAS
Rooftop units 66%
6
6 %
68%

Boilers, domestic hot water 63%

tems, equipment, and/or controls Chillers, chilled water systems 62%
to be used in a project. Source: Air balancing, test-and-balance,
52%
Consulting-Specifying Engineer 2015 environmental balancing

HVAC and Building Automation Sys- Building management system 51%

tems Study Variable refrigerant flow systems 41%
Building envelope systems 21
21%
Chilled beams 15%

More research
Consulting-Specifying Engineer cov-
ers several research topics each year.
All reports are available at
www.csemag.com/research.
Figure 2: Seven in 10 engineering firms have recently specified pumps and pumping sys-
tems, fans and air movement, and air handlers into industrial facility projects. Over the
next 12 to 24 months, firms have plans to specify chillers and chilled water systems (34%)
and variable refrigerant flow systems (32%). Source: Consulting-Specifying Engineer
www.csemag.com/research FOR MORE RESEARCH INFORMATION

www.csemag.com Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 7

User driven.
Purpose built.

STULZ is a TCO focused solution provider of energy efcient temperature and humidity management technology.
Our expertise is listening to our customers and delivering purpose built cooling solutions for data centers and
other mission critical applications. STULZ is ready to listen to you at www.stulz-usa.com

STULZ engineers a full line of CRACs, CRAHs, air handling units, ultrasonic humidiers, and custom solutions.

input #6 at www.csemag.com/information
 Career Smart
How to update your LinkedIn
profile for career advancement
A LinkedIn profile can help position you for the next step in your career.
I
f someone is considering hiring or
working with you in the future, they
will most likely do some research
online. Your LinkedIn profile is likely
the first search result, in many cases, so
its important to make that first impres-
sion a good one.
The following are the top three ways
engineers and other technical profes-
sionals can get their careers on the fast
track through LinkedIn.
1 Make your profile current
First, make sure that the current job
title and job description is accurate and
delete really old jobs and references.
Some people might not have paid much
attention to their profile since the last
time they looked for work. Take the
time to clean it up and update it so the
most up-to-date information is fea-
tured.
Take a look at your pictureis it
professional? Using a professionally
done portrait rather than one snapped
by a friend using a smartphone is pref-
erable. Also, project sites present good
opportunities to take photos with a
relevant background image.
2 Stand out as a candidate
through skills, experience
A big part of a LinkedIn profile
involves its resum-like listing of
www.csemag.com
Thought Leadership Resources, Mississauga, Ontario
Taking advantage of the
features LinkedIn offers
can help users turn their
profiles into successful
job-search tools.
various jobs, titles, and job descrip-
tions. But job seekers can go much
further by showing, not just telling,
employers what they can do. LinkedIn
has added new features that allow users
to provide evidence of skills, work
ethic, and abilities by uploading work
samples to their profile.
PDF forms, slideshows, videos, and
other images can be uploaded. Employ-
ers and others looking at profiles can
then click through the images for more
details. Indicate the role you played in
each project, especially if you worked
as part of a team. Its also important
to not publicize any information that
should stay confidential.
3 LinkedIn posts:
Reach beyond your network
The posts function within LinkedIn
allows users to create medium and
long-form content in text form, with
images added, that show ideas and
CARL FRIESEN
thought leadership. These files are
available on a users profileand are
also sent to connections when a user
publishes them. LinkedIn allows users
to add up to three tagskeywords
at the bottom of each post, so people
outside the users network who are
looking for information on that topic
can find who posted the content.
When composing posts, reach those
you want to appeal to most by writ-
ing about the pressing issues they face.
For example, a lighting engineer might
want to serve certain specific markets,
such as big-box retail. A good post for
reaching this market might enlighten
retail-sector members about the vari-
ous types of low-energy lighting fix-
tures that are available and describe
the benefits and drawbacks for retail
applications.
Taking advantage of the features
LinkedIn offers can help users turn
their profiles into successful job-search
tools. In addition, keeping profiles
updated and showcasing the proper
information will help open more doors
for career advancement.
Carl Friesen is the founder of Thought
Leadership Resources, helping business
professionals build careers by showing
their expertise.
Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 9
 MEP Roundtable
Robert C. Eichelman,
PE, LEED AP, ATD, DCEP
Analyzing data centers
Technical Director
EYP Architecture and
Engineering
Albany, N.Y.
Data is the lifeblood of any business or organizationwhich makes a
data center a facilitys beating heart. Here, engineers with experience
on data center projects show how to succeed on such facilities, and
how to keep your finger on the pulse of data center trends.
Karl Fenstermaker, PE
Principal Engineer
Southland Engineering CSE: Whats the No. 1 trend you see
Portland, Ore. today in data center design?
Karl Fenstermaker: ASHRAEs thermal
guidelines for data processing centers is
becoming more accepted and implemented in
the industry. Operating over a wider range of
temperature and humidity conditions requires
more attention to detail during the design and
Bill Kosik, PE, CEM, operation of the data center, so as a result, we
LEED AP, BEMP are seeing more leveraging of advanced tech-
Senior Mechanical nology tools, such as computational fluid
Engineer
exp design for thermal modeling and data center
Chicago infrastructure management (DCIM) systems
for more precise monitoring and control of the
data center environment.
Keith Lane: Were seeing modularity,
increased efficiency, and flexibility. Most data
center end users require all of these in their
facilities.
Brian Rener: Calculated and measured per-
Kenneth Kutsmeda, formance, whether on energy efficiency, reli-
PE, LEED AP ability, or life cycle costs. Owners are seeking
Engineering Manager verified value for their investment in the data
Mission Critical
center facility.
Jacobs
Philadelphia Saahil Tumber: Colocation providers
used to be conservative in their approach
and tended to follow standardized designs.
However, they are now open to deploying
new technologies and topologies to increase
resiliency, improve power-usage effectiveness
(PUE), reduce time to market, reduce cost,
and gain a competitive advantage. They are
Keith Lane, PE, RCDD, NTS, coming out of their comfort zones. They are
LC, LEED AP BD&C also laying emphasis on strategies that reduce
President stranded capacity and space. For enterprise
Lane Coburn & clients, there is more collaboration between
Associates LLC
Bothell, Wash. various stakeholders (information technology,
10 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
operations, security, engineering, etc.). They
are not working in silos anymore, but working
toward a common goal. We are seeing consis-
tency in their needs and requirements.
John Yoon: A trend is reduced infrastruc-
ture-redundancy requirements for clients
that are migrating services to the cloud. A 2N
UPS and N+1 computer room air conditioner
(CRAC) redundancy used to be common-
place in our designs for corporate headquar-
ters building-type data centers. That type of
redundancy is now becoming the exception.
The prevailing information technology (IT)
mindset seems to be that if mission critical
services are being moved offsite, why invest
extra money in redundant infrastructure (and
manpower) for whats left behind?
One significant experience that would speak
to the contrary involved a client that decommis-
sioned their main data center at headquarters and
replaced it with a much smaller server room. The
new server room was provided with no redun-
dancy for the UPS equipment. That UPS was in
service for more than 4 years without an inci-
dent. However, one day during a utility blip, the
UPS dropped the critical load because a single
battery cell faulted, causing a full battery-string
failure. Although the power interruption was
brief and the generator started, the inability of the
UPS to immediately sync to an unstable bypass
voltage took down everything downstream of the
UPSincluding the core network switches that
allowed headquarters to communicate with the
rest of their facilities around the world.
Although power was quickly restored via
the UPS manual bypass, the reboot of the core
switches did not occur smoothly. Communi-
cations back to headquarters were knocked
www.csemag.com
 Brian Rener,
PE, LEED AP
Senior Electrical Engineer
SmithGroupJJR
Chicago

Mark Suski,
SET, CFPS
Associate Director
JENSEN HUGHES
Lincolnshire, Ill.

Figure 1: The University of Utah data center in Salt Lake City uses airside free cooling 75% out Saahil Tumber,
of the year, on average. The fan-matrix air handling units use MERV 8/14 pre- and final filtration PE, HBDP, LEED AP
and a sophisticated weather station to inform the building management system of what action Senior Associate
Environmental
to take based on the weather patterns of that particular moment. Courtesy: SmithGroupJJR
Systems Design
Chicago
out for nearly a day. Needless to say, execu- batteries recently acquired UL listings (UL
tives were not pleased. 1642: Standard for Lithium Batteries and UL
1973: Standard for Batteries for Use in Light
CSE: What other trends should engi- Electric Rail (LER) Applications and Station-
neers be on the lookout regarding such ary Applications), and others will soon follow.
projects in the near future (1 to 3 years)? Unlike cell phones that use lithium cobalt oxide,
which has a high-energy density and is prone to
Bill Kosik: There will still be a high demand safety risks when damaged, data center batteries
for data centers. Technology will continue to use a combination of lithium manganese oxide John Yoon,
evolve, morph, and change. The outlook for and lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide, PE, LEED AP
new or renovated data centers continues to which has a lower energy density but longer Lead Electrical Engineer
McGuire Engineers Inc.
be bullish with analysts looking at the indus- lifecycle and inherent safety features.
Chicago
try doubling cloud strategies over the next 10 Jacobs recently completed a project using
years. So, trends will center around lower-cost, lithium batteries. The lithium battery has a
higher shareholder-return data centers that more than 15-year lifecycle and requires no
need to address climate change and comply maintenance. Lithium batteries provide a
with data-sovereignty laws. 65% space savings and 75% weight reduction
Kenneth Kutsmeda: A trend that will become as compared with wet-cell batteries. The lith-
more popular in data centers is the use of lith- ium battery-management system provides
ium batteries. One manufacturer of lithium the ability to isolate individual cabinets

www.csemag.com Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 11

 MEP Roundtable
without taking down the UPS and
eliminates the need for a separate moni-
toring system.
Rener: New metrics on reliability
versus the old terms of availability.
We are seeing a move away from pre-
scriptive terms on availability to cal-
culations on reliability using IEEE.
Edge-cooling approaches (local to the
server) have become more popular as
well as fluid-based cooling at the rack.
Most data centers have very littler tolerance for disruptions
to their IT processes, as interruptions can result in disturbances
to critical business operations, significant loss of revenue and
customers, or risk to public safety. Robert C. Eichelman
Yoon: We expect to see further densi-
fication of server equipment. As recently
as 10 years ago, a 45U high rack full of
1U pizza-box servers seemed like
absurdly high density. Now, the high-
est-density blade server solution that
Im currently aware of has 280 blade
servers in a 60U high rackthats a
six-fold increase in density. With these
dramatically higher equipment densi-
ties, traditional environmental design
criteria just wont cut it anymore. Much
higher cold/hot-aisle temperatures are
becoming the norm.
In the next year or so, we also expect to
see an increase in the use of lithium-ion
(Li-ion) in place of valve-regulated lead-
acid batteries for systems 750 kVA and
larger. The value proposition appears to
be theretheyre lighter, last longer, and
more tolerant of higher temperatures.
The one uncertainty is which Li-ion bat-
tery chemistry gains dominance. Some
chemistries offer high energy densities
but at the expense of increased volatil-
ity. The guiding NFPA safety codes and
standards havent yet evolved to the point
where any significant distinction can be
made between these.
CSE: What are the newest trends
in data centers in mixed-use build-
ings?
12 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
Rener: One of the more exciting
projects weve worked on in a mixed-
use building is the National Renewable
Energy LabEnergy Systems Integration
Facility, which is a 182,500-sq-ft energy
research lab with supporting offices and
high-performance computing (HPC)
data center located in Golden, Colo. The
IT cabinets supporting the HPC research
component are direct water-cooled cabi-
nets and the cooling system has the ability
to transfer the waste heat from the data
center to preheat laboratory outside air
during the winter months. This ability
to use waste energy from the data center
in other parts of the building is sure to
become an emerging trend in mixed-use
buildings with data centers.
Fenstermaker: One emerging trend is
recovering heat from the data center to
heat the rest of the building. This is most
commonly employed by using hot-aisle
air for the air side of a dual-duct system
or heating air intake at a central AHU. In
addition, smaller data centers are using
direct-expansion (DX) fan coils con-
nected to a central variable refrigerant
flow (VRF) system with heat-recovery
capabilities to transfer heat from the data
center to other zones requiring heating.
Tumber: Large-scale data center
deployments are not common in mixed-
use buildings as they have unique require-
ments that typically can only be addressed
in single-use buildings. One of the main
issues is with securing the data center.
This is because even the most compre-
hensive security strategy cannot eliminate
non-data center users from the premises.
For small-scale deployments where secu-
rity is not a big concern, a common infra-
structure that can serve both the needs of
the data center and other building uses
is important to ensure cost-effectiveness.
Emphasis is being placed on designs that
recover low-grade heat from the data cen-
ter and uses it for other purposes, such as
space heating.
CSE: What are the challenges
that you face when designing data
centers that you dont normally face
during other building projects?
Robert C. Eichelman: With few excep-
tions, data centers serve missions that are
much more critical than those served by
other building types. The infrastructure
design, therefore, requires a higher degree
of care and thoughtfulness in ensuring
that systems support the missions reli-
ability and availability requirements.
Most data centers have very little toler-
ance for disruptions to their IT processes,
as interruptions can result in disturbances
to critical business operations, significant
loss of revenue and customers, or risk to
public safety.
Most often, the supporting mechanical,
electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems
need to be concurrently maintainable,
meaning that each and every component
has the ability to be shut down, isolated,
repaired/replaced, retested, and put back
into service in a planned manner without
affecting the continuous operation of the
critical IT equipment. Systems usually
have a high degree of fault tolerance as
well. The infrastructure design needs to
be responsive to these requirements and
most often includes redundant major
components, alternate distribution paths,
and compartmentalization, among other
strategies. Power-monitoring systems are
much more extensive to give operators a
complete understanding of all critical
parameters in the power system.
Systems are also more rigorously tested
and commissioned and routinely include
factory witness testing of major equip-
ment including UPS, generators, and par-
alleling switchgear. MEP engineers also
have a larger role in controlling costs. The
MEP infrastructure for data centers rep-
resents a much higher percentage of the
total building construction and ongoing
www.csemag.com
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 MEP Roundtable
operating costs than for other building
types, requiring engineers to be much
more sensitive to these costs when design-
ing their systems.
Lane: A data center is a mission critical
environment, so power cannot go down.
We are always striving to provide the
most reliable and maintainable data cen-
ter as cost-effectively as possible. These
projects are always challenging when con-
sidering new and emerging technologies
while maintaining reliability.
Rener: Future flexibility and modular
growth. IT and computer technologies
are rapidly changing. Oftentimes during
the planning and design of the facility,
the owner has not yet identified the final
equipment, so systems need to be adapt-
able. Also, the owner will often have mul-
tiyear plans for growth, and the building
must grow without disruption.
Yoon: Managing people and personali-
ties. Most management information sys-
tems/IT (MIS/IT) department staff are
highly intelligent, extremely motivated
people, but they are not used to being
questioned on technical points. This
can make the data center programming
process extremely challengingand
even confrontational at timeswhen
youre trying to lock in MEP infrastruc-
ture requirements. The key is to remem-
ber that many CIOs and their MIS/IT
departments are accustomed to operat-
ing with reasonably high levels of inde-
pendence within their companies. Many
people within their own organizations
dont understand exactly what the MIS/
IT staff members do, only that they con-
trol the key infrastructure thats critical to
the day-to-day operations. If they havent
been involved in the construction of a
data center before, the MEP engineer is
often viewed as an external threat. The
key is to make sure they understand the
complementary set of skills that you bring
to the table.
Tumber: The project requirements
and design attributes of a data center are
different from other uses. The mission
is to sustain IT equipment as opposed
to humans. They are graded on criteria
including availability, capacity, resil-
iency, PUE, flexibility, adaptability, time
to market, scalability, cost, and more.
These criteria are unique to data centers,
and designing a system that meets all the
requirements can be challenging.
CSE: Describe the system design
in a colocation data center. With all
the different clients in a colocation
facility, how do you meet the unique
needs of each client?
Lane: The shell in a colocation facility
must be built with flexibility in mind. You
must provide all of the components for
reliability and concurrent maintainability
while allowing the end user to tweak the
data center to their own unique needs.
Typically, the shell design will stop either
at the UPS output distribution panel or
at the power distribution unit (PDU).
The redundancy (N, N+1, or 2N) and
the specific topology to the servers can
be unique to the end user. Some larger
clients will take a more significant por-
tion of the data center, if timing allows,
and they will be able to select the UPS,
generator, and medium-voltage electrical
distribution topology.
Tumber: The design of a coloca-
tion data center is influenced by its

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center is located. Courtesy: Southland Engineering

14 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 www.csemag.com

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input #8 at www.csemag.com/information
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business model. Powered shell, whole-
sale colocation, retail colocation, etc.
need to be tackled differently. If the
tenant requirements are extensive, the
entire colocation facility can be designed
to meet their unique needs, i.e., built-
to-suit. Market needs and trends typi-
cally dictate the designs of wholesale and
retail data centers. These data centers
are designed around the requirements
of current and target tenants. They offer
varying degrees of flexibility, and any
unique or atypical needs that could push
the limits of the designed infrastructure
are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Fenstermaker: The most important
thing is to work with the colocation
providers to fully understand their rate
structures, typical contract size, and the
menu of reliability/resiliency they want
to offer to their clients in the market-
place. The optimal design solution for
a retail colocation provider that may
lease a few 10-kW racks at a time with
Tier 4 systems, located in a high-rise in
the downtown area of Southern Califor-
nia, is drastically different than another
that leases 1-MW data halls in central
Oregon with Tier 2 systems. Engineers
need to be fully aware of all aspects of
the owners business plan before a design
solution can be developed.
Yoon: Colocation facilities seem to
be evolving into one-size-fits-all com-
modities. Power availability and access
to multiple carriers/telecommunication
providers with low-latency connections
still seem to be how they try to differ-
entiate themselves. However, simple
economies of scale give larger facilities
the upper hand in these key metrics.
Eichelman: For a colocation data
center, its important to understand the
types of clients that are likely to occupy
the space. The specific design solutions
need to be responsive to the likely/typi-
cal requirements while also being flex-
ible and practical to accommodate other
needs that may arise. A typical approach
could include designing a facility with a
pressurized raised floor, which allows
for air-cooled equipment while making
www.csemag.com
MEP Roundtable
provisions for hot-aisle or cold-aisle con- A system and distribute it to multiple
tainment and underfloor chilled water other systems while keeping the second
for water-cooled equipment and in-row half of the dual-corded load on the B
coolers. Power distribution could also be UPS system. Extensive load calculations
provided via an overhead busway system were required to keep track of all the
to allow flexibility in accommodating a swing loads, and detailed phasing plans
variety of power requirements. and methods of procedure were created
The tendency to allow unusual to ensure no loss of power to the load.
requirements to drive the design, how- Lane: The engineer must be able to
ever, should be carefully considered understand the reliability, maintainabil-
or avoided, unless the facility is being ity, and flexibility needs of the owner.
purpose-built for a specific tenant. The challenge is to meet or exceed these
The most important thing is to work with the colocation
providers to fully understand their rate structures, typical
contract size, and the menu of reliability/resiliency they want
to offer clients in the marketplace. Karl Fenstermaker
To optimize return on investment, its owner expectations as cost-effectively as
important to develop a design that is possible. Another significant challenge
modular and rapidly deployable. This occurs when changes or additions are
requires the design to be less dependent made to an existing and operating mis-
on equipment and systems that have sion critical data center. The engineers
long lead times, such as custom parallel- and contractors must be able to imple-
ing switchgear. Designs need to be par- ment the design changes and ensure
ticularly sensitive to initial and ongoing that no live critical loads are impacted.
operational costs that are consistent with The original design should include pro-
the providers business model. visions for changes and additions. All
work must be clearly thought out and
CSE: Describe a recent electrical/ communicated with the entire team.
power system challenge you encoun- The method of procedures must be
tered when working on a data center documented and followed during con-
project. struction in a live data center to ensure
that critical loads arent lost.
Kutsmeda: One challenge that we are Rener: A recent data center design
encountering is replacing end-of-life involved multiple large generators and a
electrical equipment in older data cen- desire to use UPS systems that do not use
ters that were built in the 1990s. Many batteries. Several options were looked at
of these data centers have large mul- including rotary UPS and traditional UPS
timodule UPS systems and associated with flywheel energy-storage units. A
switchgear that need to be replaced and challenge was to coordinate these stored-
updated with newer technology. A proj- energy run times with the start-up times
ect Jacobs currently finished required of the generators.
us to maintain full 2N distribution and
reliability during the replacement of CSE: What PUE goals have clients
equipment. Luckily, the original proj- asked you to achieve in difficult
ect was overbuilt, so there was stranded situations? Describe the project.
capacity in other UPS systems within
the facility. That stranded capacity Kosik: Generally, the most demanding
allowed us to take the load from the clients I have seen in terms of energy
Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 17
 MEP Roundtable
efficiency goals and PUE have been
European. In general, the European
market has been ahead of the United
States in reducing energy use in build-
ings and focusing on greenhouse gas
emissions. Given these boundary con-
ditions and a more temperate climate in
many countries, there is just an expec-
tation that PUEs of 1.20 and less are
achievable. As an example of this, one
project was located in Amsterdam, and
we used the canal that runs through the
city as a source of condenser water.
Eichelman: As energy efficiency
requirements continue to become
more stringent, client PUE limits con-
tinue to be reduced. Federal govern-
ment facilities are now required to have
PUEs of no more than 1.5 for existing
facilities and between 1.2 and 1.4 for
new facilities, which is fairly consis-
tent with the expectations of most
data center owners. To achieve these
requirements, very efficient electrical
and HVAC equipment and distribution
are required.
Typical approaches include the use
of high-efficiency UPS systems and
transformers, water- or airside econo-
mizers, high-temperature chilled-water
systems, rack or aisle-level containment
systems, direct water-cooled IT equip-
ment, and containerized/modular data
center solutions.
One of the main challenges in meeting
an aggressive PUE requirement relates to
the ramp-up of the IT deployment. As
a data center module comes online, the
PUE may be very high, as there is often
a small amount of equipment initially
installed with the corresponding infra-
structure being fully built-out. As equip-
ment is added, the PUE continues to fall,
with the lowest PUE being achieved at
full build-out. To reduce these inefficien-
cies, a modular infrastructure build-out
approach should be considered, with
each phase deployed to match the next
IT installation.
Tumber: For a hyper-scale data cen-
ter located in the Midwest, we were
directed to achieve an annualized PUE
18 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
(kilowatt-per-hour-based) of 1.15 or
better. To meet the aggressive goal, the
client was willing to accept tempera-
ture and humidity conditions at the
inlet of IT equipment that were similar
to an ASHRAE Class A2 thermal enve-
lope for data processing equipment.
For example, the maximum accept-
able inlet-air condition was 95F DB
and 80% RH. We used direct-evapo-
rative cooling technology for condi-
tioning the data center and completely
eliminated the need for a mechanical
refrigeration system. It is important to
remember that reducing PUE requires
a holistic approach, and there are mul-
tiple strategies that can be leveraged.
Rener: Most clients have asked us
to design systems that achieve a PUE
of 1.4 or less, which is reasonable
using best practices of aisle contain-
ment and efficient power distribution.
Working with one particular client, we
performed PUE predictions at vari-
ous levels of IT load, such as 25% and
50% loading, with the PUE prediction
based on an annualized calculation.
Yoon: Oddly enough, most of our
clients dont seem to place a very high
priority on low PUE numbers. Initial
capital cost and redundancy are the
primary topics of conversation. This,
of course, is probably much different
for the large cloud providers.
Lane: Owners, general contractors,
and engineers must be on the same
page when discussing PUE. There is
average PUE, which will dictate the
electrical bill, and there is maximum
PUE, which will dictate the size of the
electrical infrastructure required to
feed the critical loads. We have used
efficient UPS systems, outside-air
economizers, enclosed hot aisles, and
increased temperatures as well as other
methods to achieve very low average
and maximum PUE.
CSE: What unique HVAC require-
ments do data center building
projects have that you wouldnt
encounter in other buildings?
Mark Suski: There are many unique
HVAC requirements that affect data
centers. In fact, the design of the HVAC
system is one of the most critical factors
for all data centers. The HVAC system
in data centers not only provides com-
fort air for the occupant, but it also (and
more importantly) provides the cool-
ing air for the equipment. Damage can
occur to circuit boards and electronic
equipment starting at 80F, so it is criti-
cal to data center operations that the
HVAC system function properly.
Understanding the different HVAC
design approaches will allow fire
protection engineers to identify the
appropriate fire protection strategy of
the particular data center. The HVAC
systems configurations range from
flooded to targeted to contained. Each
type of air-distribution configuration
has a unique approach and protection
strategy.
Fenstermaker: The proliferation of
direct-evaporative cooling application in
large data centers, combined with expand-
ed allowable temperature and humidity
limits for IT- equipment intakes, means
mechanical engineers need to pay close
attention to all wall- and system-compo-
nent surfaces for the possibility of surface
temperatures that could drop below room
dew point, effectively creating rain inside
of the data center.
Tumber: The project requirements
and design attributes of a data center are
different from other uses. The mission
is to sustain IT equipment as opposed
to humans. They are graded on criteria
such as availability, capacity, resiliency,
flexibility, adaptability, time to market,
scalability, cost per megawatt, and more.
These criteria are unique to data centers,
and designing a mechanical system that
meets all the requirements can be chal-
lenging.
Read more at
www.csemag.com/archives about:
 Automation and controls
 Codes and standards
 Fire/life safety
 HVAC
 Sustainable buildings/energy efficiency.
www.csemag.com
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input #9 at www.csemag.com/information
 Codes & Standards
Whats new to NFPA 13 and what
to expect in future editions
Changes to the 2016 edition of NFPA 13 are evaluated along
with what to expect in the 2019 edition.
BY RAYMOND A. GRILL, PE, FSFPE, LEED AP, Arup, Washington, D.C.
Learning
objectives
 Review changes made to
the 2016 edition of NFPA 13:
Standard for the Installation
of Sprinkler Systems.
 Discuss the updated orga-
nization to the 2019 edition of
NFPA 13.
20 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
S
tandards that are regularly applied in daily
practices are developed years in advance of
them actually being adopted and enforced.
The 2016 edition of NFPA 13: Standard for the
Installation of Sprinkler Systems will not be
adopted locally until the locations jurisdiction
adopts the 2018 edition of the International
Building Code or 2018 edition of NFPA 101:
Life Safety Code.
There are some authorities, however, that adopt
the most current edition of the standards. Most
notably, the U.S. Department of Defense typically
applies the most recent edition of the NFPA stan-
dards to projects. It may also be advantageous
from a risk management perspective to apply the
most recent edition of a code to a project. This is
because there may be areas addressed in the most
recent code that arent addressed in previous edi-
tions that can influence a design.
The most recent edition of a standard is typi-
cally considered to contain the latest and best
thought on the subject. However, if there are
changes from the actual standard that are being
enforced on a project, it is recommended that any
deviation from the adopted standard be reviewed
with the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) dur-
ing the design process.
For product manufacturers and installers,
knowing what is coming down the road can also
help prepare for implementing the new code
requirements. The knowledge also can be used
to impact product design or help develop train-
ing material for employees who design and install
systems.
There are a number of significant changes in
the 2016 edition of NFPA 13 that will be evalu-
ated in addition to the new organization of the
2019 edition.
Metric conversions: During the development
of the 2016 edition of NFPA 13, the associations
correlating committee established a task group to
review the metric conversions within the standard
and make recommendations for potential revi-
sions to enhance usability outside of the United
States. Previous editions of the standard used an
exact conversion between U.S. customary units
and metric units. Where it was deemed appropri-
ate by the task group and technical committees,
nominal metric equivalents or approximate con-
versions have been provided. The standard explic-
itly notes in Section 1.6.3 that it is acceptable to
use the exact conversion or the conversion stated
in the standard even though they may not be the
same. Section A.1.6.3 of Annex A provides explan-
atory information and examples of conversions.
Storage commodity classification: The crite-
ria for defining Class IV commodities has been
expanded to include criteria for cartoned versus
exposed products. Class IV commodities can
also include limited amounts of Class A plas-
tics (expanded and unexpanded). Figures have
been added that note the allowable mixtures (on
a percentage by volume basis) of expanded and
unexpanded Group A plastics for purposes of
defining the commodity classification. (Figures
5.6.3.3.3 [a] and [b])
Cellulosics, natural rubber, and nylon have
been reclassified from Group B to Group A
www.csemag.com
plastics. PVF (polyvinyl fluoride) has been reclas-
sified from a Group C plastic to a Group A plastic.
Treatment of extension fittings: A definition of
extension fittings and criteria for their use have
been added to the standard. An extension fitting
is an adapter that is used to adjust the final fit
where sprinklers are installed in a finished ceiling
or wall. Previous editions of the standard do not
address extension fittings.
A new Section 6.4.8 has been added. Exten-
sion fittings are allowed to be used with sprinklers
having a K factor of 8 or less in light or ordinary
hazard occupancies only. A single extension fit-
ting having a maximum length of 2 in. is allowed
and is not required to be included in the hydraulic
calculations.
Extension fittings longer than 2 in. are allowed
if they are specifically listed and are included in
the hydraulic calculations.
Air venting: A requirement has been added
that each wet-pipe system using metallic pipe
be provided with a vent. The vent is required
to be located near a high point in the system to
allow air to be removed from the system (Sec-
tions 7.1.5 and 8.16.6). The vent can consist of
a manual valve, an automatic valve, or other
approved means. The intent of the requirement is
to provide a means for removing trapped oxygen
that could fuel corrosion, and that the valve be
operated after each drain-and-fill event. Only one
vent is required per system. There isnt an intent
that all air that may be trapped in the system be
vented. The provision of more than one vent is at
the designers discretion.
Galvanized pipe in dry systems: The require-
ment that galvanized steel pipe be used in dry
and preaction systems was removed from the
standard. The technical committee removed the
requirement because there have been instances
where galvanized pipe has corroded as quickly
as nongalvanized steel pipe.
Sprinklers under skylights: A clarifying section
(Section 8.5.7.1.1) has been added to the stan-
dard regarding the placement of sprinklers under
skylights. This section notes that for the purpose
of determining the distance of a sprinkler to the
ceiling, the ceiling plane shall be measured to the
ceiling as if the skylight were not present. This is
applicable to skylights that are less than 32 sq ft
in area.
www.csemag.com
It is also important to note that the 2013 and Figure 1: This photo shows a
2016 editions allow omission of sprinklers from dry pipe system being fed from
skylights that are less than 32 sq ft in area when a wet combination sprinkler/
they are located greater than 10 ft from another standpipe riser. The dry pipe
unprotected skylight or ceiling pocket. system is extending to an exte-
Sprinklers under obstructions: Most designers rior area to protect mechanical
and installers are aware that obstructions wider equipment on the roof of the
than 4 ft require sprinkler protection below the building. All graphics courtesy:
obstruction. Two new criteria have been added Arup
to the standard addressing these obstructions.
One requirement mandates that sprinklers be
installed no more than 12 in. from the bottom
of the obstruction and is applicable to all types
of sprinklers with the exception of residential
sprinklers, which are to be installed in accordance
with their listed distance below ceilings (Sections
8.5.5.3.1.3, 8.6.5.3.6, 8.8.5.3.5, and 8.10.7.3.5). The
other requirement addresses sprinklers below
round ducts that are creating an obstruction,
stating that the sprinklers be intermediate-level/
rack-storage type or otherwise shielded from the
discharge of overhead sprinklers. This require-
ment is applicable to pendant and upright sprin-
klers as well as residential sprinklers (Sections
8.6.5.3, 8.8.5.3, and 8.10.7.3.6).
Clearance to storage: An allowance has been
added to the standard to permit wall-mounted
shelving not located directly below a sprinkler
to extend above a plane that is 18 in. below the
sprinklers. The standard does not limit the height
of wall-mounted shelving that is not directly
below a sprinkler. Wall-mounted shelves could
be installed up to the ceiling (Section 8.6.6.2.1).
Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 21
 Codes & Standards
Figure 2: This photo illustrates sprinklers
installed below a sloped glass skylight. The
temperature rating of the sprinklers need
to take into account the maximum ambient
temperatures. Also, if the sprinklers will be
exposed to direct sunlight, they are required
to classified as intermediate temperature
sprinklers.
Sidewall sprinklers in soffits and
above cabinets: The limitation that side-
wall sprinklers be located within 4 in. of
the bottom of a soffit to avoid sprinklers
below the soffit has been removed. The
sidewall sprinkler just needs to be located
on the soffit within the spacing limitations
from the ceiling (Section 8.7.4.1.3.2).
Criteria for sidewall sprinkler installa-
tion in soffits above cabinets were previ-
ously only applicable to soffits and cabi-
nets in residential areas and occupancies.
Limiting the use of these rules in other
occupancies has been deleted (Section
8.7.4.1.4).
Minimum distance from obstruc-
tions: The three times rule to limit the
impact of obstructions on water distribu-
tion requires that standard sprinklers be
located away from the obstruction at a
distance equaling at least three times the
width of the obstruction. The standard
notes a maximum clearance of 24 in. from
22 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
an obstruction. There has been clarifying
criteria added to the rule for standard
pendant and upright spray sprinklers and
sidewall standard spray sprinklers, noting
that the maximum clear distance of 24 in.
is not applicable when considering vertical
obstructions, such as columns (Sections
8.6.5.2.1.3 and 8.7.5.2.1.3).
The four times rule, which is appli-
cable to extended coverage and residential
sprinklers, has also been revised to note
that the maximum clear distance rule is
not applicable to vertical obstructions,
such as columns.
Small openings and concealed spaces:
A new definition for small openings has
been added to the standard. A small open-
ing is defined as an opening in a ceiling or
a construction feature of a concealed space
that allows limited amounts of heat to
enter the concealed space (Section 3.3.21).
The annex section notes that a 4x2-ft dif-
fuser would meet the definition of a small
opening. If the length of the opening is
greater than 4 ft, the width of the opening
is limited to 8 in.
Small openings come into play when
determining whether a concealed space
needs to be sprinkler-protected. For
example, noncombustible or limited-
combustible concealed spaces that do
not have access are not required to be
sprinkler-protected. A ceiling forming the
bottom of the concealed space is allowed
to have small openings and is still not
required to be sprinkler-protected (Sec-
tion 11.2.3.1.5.2).
Bathroom sprinkler exception: Section
8.15.8.1.1 has been revised to make the
sprinkler exception for bathrooms that
are smaller than 55 sq ft and have limited
combustible or noncombustible walls,
applicable to all dwelling units. In the
previous edition of the code, this excep-
tion was only applicable to dwelling units
in hotels and motels.
Cloud ceilings: A new section in the
standard has been added that allows cloud
ceilings to be installed without sprinklers
above the cloud ceilings. To take advan-
tage of the allowances, an analysis consid-
ering the elevation of the cloud ceilings,
the maximum dimension of the elements
of the cloud ceiling, and the gaps between
cloud elements must be performed. If
specific parameters are met, sprinklers
can be eliminated above the cloud ceil-
ing. Sprinkler-coverage limitations are
also driven by the size of cloud elements
and the space between elements relative
to the cloud ceiling height. There are also
parameters on types of sprinklers that are
allowed as well as the surface of the clouds
(smooth ceiling construction). These
requirements and allowances are located
in Section 8.15.24 of the standard.
The criteria in this section is intended
to apply to a cloud ceiling that has been
installed throughout a room. This section
would not allow the space above obstruc-
tions suspended from a ceiling to not be
sprinklered. These obstructions are often
referred to as clouds by interior designers,
but due to the large openings around the
clouds, would not fall within the allowances
of Section 8.15.24. The maximum space
between clouds or the edge of a cloud and
the wall of a room is 1 in. of gap per foot
of vertical height of the cloud ceiling from
the floor. Therefore, a cloud ceiling that is
10 ft above the floor could have a maxi-
mum of 10 in. between clouds or between
the edge of the cloud and the wall.
The minimum dimension of the indi-
vidual cloud elements and the actual gap
relative to the height of the ceiling is used
to determine the sprinkler coverage from
Table 8.15.24.1 of the NFPA 13 standard.
If the actual gap is larger than 1 in./ft of
ceiling height, the omission of sprinklers
above the cloud ceiling is not allowed.
Sprinklers in revolving doors: A code
section was added to explicitly note that
sprinklers are not required in revolving
doors (Section 8.15.25).
Sprinkler-protected glazing: Crite-
ria has been added to address the use of
sprinklers and glazing when used as an
alternative to a fire-rated wall or window
protection (Section 8.15.26).
Inside hose stream allowance: For com-
bination sprinkler/standpipe systems (Class
I or III) in buildings that are fully sprinkler-
protected, an inside hose stream demand is
not required to be included in the hydraulic
calculations (Section 11.1.6.3.1).
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 Codes & Standards
Storage: Numerous clarifications in the
requirements for storage occupancies have
been made in chapters 12 through 20.
Those dealing with storage occupancies
should thoroughly review these chapters.
Air-leakage testing of modifications to
existing systems: A new section has been
added to Chapter 25 addressing air-leak-
age testing of modifications to existing
dry pipe and double-interlock preaction
systems. Two options for testing are pro-
vided in Section 25.2.2.1.1. One method
involves a 2-hour pressure test and the
other allows a 4-hour test under normal
operating pressure.
Figure 3: This photo shows the use of sprin-
klers as part of a code modification to allow
a glass floor within an elevator lobby. Note
that the sprinklers are provided in each bay
to wet the floor above. They are also closer
than 6 feet on center, however, the structure
creates baffles to prevent cold soldering of
adjacent sprinklers.
Future revisions to the standard
The development of the 2019 edition of
NFPA 13 is well underway. The first-draft
meetings of the technical committees were
held last year. The public comment closing
date is May 10, 2017, and committees will
be meeting in June to act on the public
comments.
Leading up to the development of the
2019 edition, the technical correlating
committee established a reorganization
task group. The work of the task group
resulted in a recommendation that the
standard be reorganized. The goals of the
reorganization include:
24 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
n Provide a more logical sequence for
the presentation of information and
requirements for users not intimate
with the current format.
n Address current redundancies and
gaps in requirements for protection
of storage.
n Address dispersal of requirements
throughout the standard that deal
with a common subject.
n Reorganize Chapter 8.
The recommendations of the task
group have been accepted, and the 2019
edition of NFPA 13 will be reorganized
as noted below.
n Chapters 1 and 2 will continue to
address the administrative requirements
and referenced publications with no reor-
ganizational changes.
n Chapter 3, which addresses defini-
tions, will be reorganized. The definitions
currently are divided into subcategories
within the chapter, and items are alpha-
betized within the subcategory. If a user
is not aware of the subcategory where a
definition would reside, it can be difficult
to find. All of the definitions will be in
alphabetical order and the subcategories
will be deleted.
n Chapter 4 will contain the general
requirements for sprinkler systems. These
requirements are currently scattered
amongst Chapters 5, 8, and 23.
n Chapter 5 will contain the require-
ments for water supplies that currently
reside in Chapter 24.
n Chapter 6 will contain the require-
ments for underground piping currently in
Chapter 10.
n Chapter 7 will contain the require-
ments for system components and hard-
ware.
n Chapter 8 will address system types
and requirements. The current Chapter 8
is being split into multiple chapters, and
the current requirements in Chapter 7
will be moved to the new Chapter 8.
n Chapter 9 will include sprinkler-
location requirements that are currently
in Chapter 8. Allowances for sprinkler
omissions and protection for special
situations will be located in the new
Chapter 9. Criteria for the protection
area per sprinkler and spacing also will
be located in Chapter 9.
n Chapters 10 through 15 will contain
the design and installation criteria for the
various types of sprinklers that are cur-
rently all located within Chapter 8.
n Chapters 16 and 17 will address piping
valves and appurtenances and hanging and
support requirements.
n Chapter 18 will address seismic design
requirements, and Chapter 19 will provide
design and calculation requirements.
n Chapter 20 will provide general require-
ments for storage, and chapters 21 through
25 will address specific storage requirements
and in-rack sprinkler requirements.
n Chapter 26 will address special-occu-
pancy requirements. System testing will be
addressed in Chapter 27. Chapter 28 will
address modifications to existing systems,
and 29 will address marine systems. Chap-
ter 30 will address system inspection, test-
ing, and maintenance.
There will also be technical changes to
the standard, as there are in every revision
cycle. The committees have tried to limit
significant technical changes during this
cycle due to the major reorganization.
This article highlights many of the
changes in the 2016 edition of NFPA 13.
These identified changes are ones that are
deemed to have a more critical impact on
the standard and should not be considered
inclusive of all changes.
The 2019 edition should be much
improved from a usability perspective. As
can be seen by the organization, the intent
is to be able to apply the document as one
would go through the steps of designing
or reviewing a system. As always, the stan-
dards are in a continual state of change to
allow for improvement and acceptance of
new technologies and approaches.
Raymond A. Grill is a principal with Arup.
He is chair of the of the NFPA 13 Technical
Committee on Sprinkler System Installation
Criteria and serves on the Technical Com-
mittee on Building Services and Fire Pro-
tection Equipment for NFPA 101/5000. He
is a member of the Consulting-Specifying
Engineer editorial advisory board.
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 Codes & Standards
Designing sprinkler systems
for maintainability
Best practices for designing an automatic sprinkler system
that can be easily inspected, tested, and maintained.
BY ANDREW J. TAGGART, PE, and JULIE E. BUFFAM BROWN, PE,
JENSEN HUGHES, Westminster, Colo.
Learning
objectives
 Learn about the codes and
standards that fire protection
engineers should reference
when designing fire sprinkler
systems.
 Understand that inspection,
testing, and maintenance are
key to compliant fire sprinkler
systems.
Figure 1: This photo
shows a 4-in. drain
below a sprinkler sys-
tem main drain line.
Courtesy: James Taylor,
PE, JENSEN HUGHES
26 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
A
sprinkler system designed strictly in
accordance with the requirements of
NFPA 13: Standard for the Installation
of Sprinkler Systems does not necessarily lend
itself to a simple regimen of inspection, testing,
and maintenance. A sprinkler system designer
needs to understand the various post-installation
inspection, testing, and maintenance procedures
required by NFPA 25: Standard for the Inspection,
Testing and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire
Protection Systems to design a system that can
be inspected, tested, and maintained efficiently.
NFPA 13 serves as the primary automatic fire
sprinkler system design and installation standard
in the U.S. It is also adopted and used for fire
sprinkler system design in locations outside of
the U.S. Once sprinkler systems are installed, the
application of effective inspection, testing, and
maintenance (ITM) is required to ensure system
performance during a fire event. NFPA 25 is the
established standard for sprinkler system ITM
criteria. An NFPA 13-compliant sprinkler sys-
tem will include the minimum system features
required to complete NFPA 25 ITM activities.
However, even an NFPA 13 code-compliant sys-
tem does not automatically lend itself to applying
the most efficient ITM.
Experience has shown that when sprinkler
system design features result in additional dif-
ficulty or cost in completing ITM activities,
building owners often choose to forgo portions
of the required ITM procedures over time. Poor
ITM practices increase the probability that the
sprinkler system may not perform properly when
needed. NFPA 25 ITM activities may be accom-
plished with greater ease and are, in turn, more
likely to be completed over the sprinkler systems
lifetime when the system is designed to include
features that increase the practicality of ITM.
The following describes best practices that may
be used to meet some of the NFPA 13 require-
ments while still facilitating the ITM activities
described in NFPA 25.
Inspecting sprinkler system components
Sprinkler system components are required to
be visually inspected at regular intervals. For
example, NFPA 25 requires quarterly inspec-
tions of gauges, control valves, waterflow alarm
devices, and supervisory devices. Gauges on dry
and pre-action systems are further required to
be inspected on a monthly basis. Gauges are
www.csemag.com
inspected to ensure that they are free from phys-
ical damage and are displaying normal system
pressures. Valves, waterflow devices, and super-
visory devices are inspected to ensure that they
are free of physical damage. In addition, valves
are inspected to ensure that they are maintained
in the appropriate orientation (open/closed).
This inspection is of particular importance due
to the fact that normally open valves placed in
the closed position are known to serve as a lead-
ing cause of sprinkler system failure. According
to NFPAs June 2013 article, U.S. Experience
with Sprinklers, 64% of sprinkler systems failed
to operate during a fire scenario due to system
valves being closed. Closed valves serve as a
leading cause of sprinkler system failure.
All of the aforementioned components are
generally located at the sprinkler system riser
or at sprinkler system floor control assemblies.
Given the frequency of these inspections, the
sprinkler system designer can best serve the
building owner by locating the risers and floor
control assemblies where such devices can be
easily viewed, preferably without the need for
a ladder. The 2016 edition of NFPA 13 refers to
this need in Section 8.1.2 by requiring that sys-
tem valves and gauges be accessible for opera-
tion, testing, and maintenance. The Annex note
for this section allows that valves do not have
to be in an open or exposed location and may
be located behind doors, removable panels, or
in valve pits. Given these vague guidelines, one
could argue that a valve located 20 ft above a
finished floor can be reached by scissor lift and
considered accessible.
Most sprinkler system designers and install-
ers locate sprinkler system risers and trim at a
height that can be easily reached and viewed for
inspection and maintenance. However, in multi-
floor buildings, floor control assemblies tend to
be located near ceiling level either inside a stair-
well or outside of stairwells, or above suspended
ceilings. To facilitate ease of maintenance and
inspections, it is recommended that the system
designer locate floor control assemblies inside
stairwells rather than above suspended ceilings.
Following this rule provides the advantage of
easy visibility for inspection, testing, and mainte-
nance and also makes the floor control valve con-
siderably easier to locate in the event of a system
www.csemag.com
accidental discharge. Addition-
ally, it is recommended that
the floor control assembly be
located no higher than 7 ft above
the stairwell landing, where the
stairwell landing depth is of
sufficient size to accommodate
such equipment without impact-
ing required egress width.
In addition to quarterly
inspections, a number of com-
ponents are required to be
inspected annually including
hangers and seismic bracing,
sprinklers, pipe, fittings, spare
sprinklers, system information signage, and fire Figure 2: Water rapidly overflows
department connections. The majority of these the 4-in. drain during a main
items are located as necessary to meet system drain test. Courtesy: James
design criteria including design density and Taylor, PE, JENSEN HUGHES
spacing. The designer, therefore, has minimal
control over location for ease of ITM.
Section 8.16.1.1.8 requires identification signs
at every control valve to indicate valve function
and what the valve controls. While not required by
NFPA 13, it is also recommended that valve iden-
tification signs indicate whether a valve is intended To facilitate ease
to be normally open or normally closed. This is
one of several sections requiring signage for iden-
of maintenance
tifying various components. These signs are vital and inspections,
for better serving building owners, maintenance
staff, and responding fire department personnel it is recommended
who may not be fully familiar with the building
layout and the details of the building design.
that the system
designer locate
Testing sprinkler systems
NFPA 25 requires that a main drain test be floor control
completed on an annual/quarterly basis (depend-
ing upon system configuration) to determine if
assemblies inside
any degradation of the water supply has occurred. stairwells rather
A portion of this test involves fully opening the
main drain valve and allowing water to flow for a than above
duration long enough to obtain a stabilized resid-
ual pressure before the valve is closed again. To
suspended ceilings.
facilitate this test, the 2016 edition of NFPA 13
Section 8.16.2.4.6.2 states that the main drain test
connection shall be installed that the valve can
be opened wide for a sufficient time to assure a
proper test without causing water damage.
If the final design of the main drain does not
permit full flow for a long enough duration,
Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 27
 Codes & Standards
sprinkler system service personnel may be
forced to throttle the drain valve, close the
drain valve prematurely, or not perform the
test at all in an effort to prevent water dam-
age. Ineffective main drain tests may allow
a degraded water supply to go unnoticed.
One common method is to route the
main drain discharge to the exterior of
the building. Alternatively, practicality
or local environmental laws may require
that the main drain be discharged to the
sanitary sewer. In both cases, a number of
factors must be considered by the engi-
neer to ensure that the main drain will be
installed to allow for proper testing.
If the drain will discharge to the exte-
rior of the building, the engineer should
consider whether the discharge location
will negatively impact property, vegeta-
tion, building use, etc. Is the discharge
location sufficient to prevent water from
flowing back into the building? Is the
ground surface at the discharge location
capable of resisting erosion due to water
discharge? Could vegetation, vehicles, or
other nearby objects be damaged by the
discharge of water? Will the discharge of
water outside during the winter months
create a dangerous situation, such as an
If the drain will discharge to the exterior of the
building, the engineer should consider whether the
discharge location will negatively impact property,
vegetation, building use, etc.
ice-covered building entrance? If dis-
charging to an interior floor drain, it is
important to ensure that the test can be
completed without negatively impacting
the building interior due to flooding or
splashing. Can the floor drain handle the
anticipated flow? Is the drain located near
storage or electrical components?
The engineer should estimate the
expected waterflow from the main drain.
This will depend on the water supply pres-
sure and drain piping size and will drive
the necessary size of the interior floor
drain. If the drain cannot be sized to fully
handle the anticipated flow, then consid-
eration should be given to providing a
28 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
contained space into which excess water
can be permitted to accumulate.
Backflow preventers are required to be
tested annually by forward-flowing water
at a flow rate greater than or equal to the
system demand. While this requirement
has been included in NFPA 25 at least
since the 1992 edition, NFPA 13 does not
contain any specific direction to help the
designer identify how to meet this require-
ment. For example, the U.S. Department
of Defense Unified Facilities Criteria
3-600-01 Fire Protection Engineering
for Facilities, with Change 1, November
2016 specifically requires that all new
sprinkler systems be provided with a test
header consisting of 2-in. angle or globe
valves, with at least one valve for every 250
gal per minute (gpm) of system demand.
NFPA 20: Standard for the Installation
of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection
also contains some guidance for providing
waterflow test devices, such as test head-
ers and closed test loops using flowme-
ters. Traditionally, sprinkler systems that
do not require fire pumps have not been
provided with a test header or a closed
test loop even though these two methods
provide the best means for accomplishing
the yearly forward flow test. Without the
provision of a test header or test loop, the
best way to forward-flow test a backflow
preventer is to reverse the fire depart-
ment connection (FDC) check valve and
allow water to flow out of the FDC. The
amount of effort required to reverse the
check valve and perform the test is likely
to be a strong deterrent to performing this
test. It is, therefore, recommended that
sprinkler system designers include a test
header in their design, sized to provide
at least one 2-in. valve per 250 gpm of
system demand. The test header should
be located on a building exterior wall or
as a part of an exterior backflow preventer
assembly in areas not subject to freezing.
Given the large amount of water that can
be discharged during a forward-flow test
(approximately 200 gpm for a light hazard
system; 350 gpm for an ordinary hazard
group 1 system), the test header should be
located so that a 50-ft hose can discharge
water to a location that does not negatively
impact nearby buildings or vegetation. A
nearby storm drain may be ideal, if per-
mitted. Where local environmental laws
prohibit sprinkler system discharge to the
exterior or to storm drains, it may be best
to locate the test header near a roadway
so that the hose can discharge to a truck-
mounted portable tank.
NFPA 25 requires pre-action and deluge
valves to be trip tested. This test can be
completed with a partially opened con-
trol valve annually and with a fully opened
control valve every 3 years. In each case,
water is admitted into an otherwise dry
system. Pre-action systems are frequently
installed in locations, such as data centers
or refrigerated buildings, where the acci-
dental release of water can result in espe-
cially costly damages. Annual trip testing
introduces unwanted water into the dry
portion of the system piping. Even when
piping is properly sloped and provided
with the proper drains, it is very difficult
to remove all of the water from the system.
Additionally, if the pre-action system
is protecting a freezer, the water from the
trip test may freeze in the piping prior to
being drained. The remaining water in
the pipe increases the systems suscep-
tibility to corrosion and damage due to
freezing. For these reasons, a trip test that
does not introduce water into the system
piping is preferred. NFPA 13 allows for
a second indicating control valve to be
installed in the riser assembly above the
pre-action or deluge valve to permit full
function trip testing without flooding the
system piping. The specifying engineer
or consultant should consider including
the second indicating valve in the design.
Without this valve, it is likely that NFPA
25s required trip testing would be consid-
ered impractical (e.g., systems protecting
cold-storage warehouses) and may not be
performed at all.
www.csemag.com
Maintenance for sprinkler systems
NFPA 25 states that, at a minimum,
dry-pipe system auxiliary drains should
be drained after each operation of the
system and before the start of freezing
weather conditions. It is vital that con-
densate be regularly drained from these
auxiliary drains to prevent freeze failures
of the dry-pipe system. If possible, the
engineer should stress to the building
owner the importance of regularly emp-
tying these drains.
Dry-pipe sprinkler systems typically
have a number of auxiliary drains. Build-
ing owners and maintenance personnel
are not always aware of the location of
every auxiliary drain. To facilitate the reg-
ular emptying of these drains, NFPA 13
requires a sign at the dry-pipe valve that
indicates the number and location of each
low-point drain. The standard requires
that this sign be a permanently marked
metal or rigid plastic sign.
The engineer should pay close attention
to ensure that the installing contractor
adheres to this requirement. A laminated
sheet of paper listing the drain locations,
thumbtacked to the wall adjacent to the
dry valve, is likely to become unreadable
over time. Without this sign, a low-point
drain may be overlooked. For example, a
low-point drain located under the stair
in a far corner of a large building can be
easily forgotten by building maintenance
staff or overlooked by a sprinkler system
service company during a 1 a.m. emer-
gency service call.
Proper documentation for
sprinkler systems
Almost inevitably at some point in
the lifetime of a sprinkler system, hav-
ing access to the original contractor-pre-
pared, as-built shop drawings and hydrau-
lic calculations will be greatly beneficial.
Many times, the original shop drawings
and other documentation pertaining to
the original system installation are lost
shortly after construction is completed,
or accurate as-built shop drawings are
not provided. Without these documents,
many situations, such as renovating an
existing sprinkler system, evaluating an
www.csemag.com
Figure 3: This floor drain is inadequately sized for forward-flow testing of the backflow
preventer. Courtesy: Jacob Epstein, PE, JENSEN HUGHES
existing sprinkler system for protecting a
new hazard, or investigating a recurring
maintenance issue, will likely require the
contractor or engineer to recreate at least
some of the lost information. The inves-
tigation to recreate the missing as-built
drawings will have an associated cost and
may be destructive in nature.
While NFPA 13 does not have a require-
ment for retaining working plans and
calculations, the engineer may want to
consider the use of a documentation cabi-
net similar to what is required by NFPA
72: National Fire Alarm and Signaling
Code. This cabinet can be used to store
as-built drawings, calculations, opera-
tions and maintenance manuals, and ITM
records in a convenient waterproof loca-
tion. Depending upon the type of cabinet
specified, electronic files (i.e., CAD files
of the system design and acceptance test
documentation) may also be stored.
Inspection, testing, and maintenance
activities are essential to prolonging the
life of sprinkler systems and ensuring
that sprinkler systems are able to oper-
ate as designed in the event of an emer-
gency. An engineer can include a number
of simple features in sprinkler system
design to make ITM activities easier and
less of a burden for the building owner
and maintenance staff. These features
Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
include informative and durable sig-
nage, test-valve discharge locations that
minimize their impact on the building
and environment, system riser locations
that afford visibility and easy access for
ITM, and additional valves that reduce
the amount of labor required for annual
testing and allow for the isolation of main-
tenance activities. Providing a designated
location for as-built document storage and
ITM recordkeeping will help to reduce the
amount of rework required when system
modifications are necessary.
Andrew J. Taggart is a senior fire pro-
tection engineer at JENSEN HUGHES
and has more than 9 years of experi-
ence in the design of fire suppression
systems including experience as a fire
protection consultant and a fire sprin-
kler contractor, during which he often
assists building owners in solving ongo-
ing sprinkler system maintenance issues.
Julie E. Buffam Brown is a senior fire pro-
tection engineer at JENSEN HUGHES. As
a fire protection engineer and code consul-
tant, she has performed numerous property
condition assessments and has seen many
instances where poor design can impact the
frequency and quality of sprinkler system
inspection, testing, and maintenance.
29
 Coordinating fire protection
designs via
BIM
BIM can be a very powerful tool in the design and construction industry.
It takes 2-D information far beyond just a 3-D environment. It places the
tool of a database or model in the hands of fire protection engineers,
giving them the benefit of what they want to achieve within the BIM model.

BY ALLYN VAUGHN, PE, FSFPE, LEED AP, JBA Consulting Engineers, an NV5 Co., Las Vegas

30 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 www.csemag.com


A
ccording to the Autodesk
website, building infor-
mation modeling (BIM)
is an intelligent 3-D
mo del-b as e d pro cess
that equips architecture, engineering,
and construction (AEC) profession-
als with the insight and tools to more
efficiently plan, design, construct, and
manage buildings and infrastructure. So
what does that really mean? And how
can the use of BIM benefit the design
community, specifically in the fire pro-
tection industry?
The concept of BIM in the AEC indus-
try has been around since the 1960s, but
didnt evolve to its current use until the
early 2000s. The design community used
a 2-D platform to design buildings for
many years, even after the introduction
of the personal computer gave way to
computerized software for architec-
tural and engineering design. Two-
www.csemag.com
Figure 1: Different ceiling heights
and open floor plans require coor-
dination of sprinklers and fire alarm
notification appliances within the
Graton Resort & Casino, Rohnert
Park, Calif. This image illustrates
the variations in ceiling heights
along the casino floor. The Graton
Resort & Casino is larger than
300,000 sq ft and contains a vari-
ety of different uses as well as a
very complex ceiling configuration
within the main casino. The ceiling
is a series of waves that required
a lot of coordination for sprinkler
location and positioning with other
systems and ceiling features. Exit-
ing was complex in that the engi-
neers needed to employ a variety of
features to make exit capacity and
travel distances work. Using a BIM
model approach to this type of proj-
ect saved time and effort while also
allowing the design team to bet-
ter coordinate systems within the
building. All graphics courtesy: JBA
Consulting Engineers, an NV5 Co.
dimensional platforms but takes it even further
allowed designers to use Learning by introducing other
an inventory of stored objectives dimensions, such as time
symbols and line types (for scheduling purposes)
 Describe some of the ways
to improve on the hand BIM is being used in the fire and cost (for estimat-
drafting that was previ- protection industry. ing and control). It also
ously used in the industry.  Outline how BIM can be
introduces what could be
Then the use of 3-D used in the future to coordi- considered a database to
design became prevalent, nate fire protection designs. store specific informa-
giving way to what is now  Learn to use 3-D models to tion about the objects
BIM. Three-dimensional coordination fire protection used in design. Objects
modeling allows engi- system design. are added to the model
neers to see what they to build the database or
are designing before it is built, to get a design. The objects store information
feel for the layout of the space and how that can be used in a wide variety of
the various elements fit into the design. ways to enhance the database or model
This helps designers avoid conflicts with being used to design the building. This,
other disciplines or trades before the sys- in turn, enhances the design tools avail-
tem is installed. able to the design community.
When BIM was introduced, it allowed
a database or model to be used so that Fire protection system design
an inventory of symbols can include Fire protection engineers and con-
objects. BIM is a form of 3-D modeling, tractors have been using 3-D modeling
Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 31
 Coordinating fire protection designs via BIM
for many years to design systems, such tion, the concept design can be enhanced and equipment. However, BIM applica-
as automatic sprinkler, standpipe, fire to shop-drawing design while keeping tions can be of benefit to the fire alarm
pumping, and special hazard-suppres- the original design concepts in place. and detection industry as a tool for inven-
sion systems. The use of 3-D design tory and cataloging of equipment. While
applications helps with the coordination BIMs payback detailed field coordination may not be as
of design and installation by showing the The benefits of a BIM application critical with the smaller equipment, the
designers how the various components design through the life of the building use of BIM can help with panel locations,
of the systems will fit into the building or allows the contractors to keep an inven- fire command rooms, and coordinating
space. Some applications also have inte- tory of equipment within the model, so the placement of devices on ceilings with
grated hydraulic calculations into other trades.
the program to allow for more The traditional applications
efficiency in design. seen for fire protection BIM
Most of the fire protection sys- design are for installed systems.
tem shop drawings being developed However, there also can be a
today use a combination of 2-D and benefit of using BIM for fire-
3-D designs. Two-dimensional engineering designs. Egress plans
floor plans are used to show piping can be automated through the use
runs and layout as well as sprinkler of BIM. Egress plans are used to
locations. They also are used to develop the exiting scheme for
show sprinkler locations on reflect- buildings and take into account
ed ceiling plans to coordinate the the occupant load of rooms and
layout with other ceiling devices. the overall building while show-
Three-dimensional applications ing the egress routes to exit the
are used to show riser details, building.
floor control valve locations, fire BIM applications can take the
pump rooms, and other equip- architectural model and import
ment where space relationships room data into the egress model.
are necessary. These are beneficial The room data can give the type
because they show how the equip- or use of the room and the size of
ment or systems fit into the spaces the room. Those two factors are
for which they are being designed. then used to determine the calcu-
However, most of the applications lated occupant load of the room to
being used to develop design and determine the width and quantity
shop drawings have been 3-D Figure 2: This BIM model depicts a typical floor of exits from the room or space,
applications, and are not truly control assembly for a fire sprinkler system. and for the overall building. Using
BIM applications. a BIM application allows engineers
With BIM becoming more prevalent that recurring maintenance and repairs to calculate the occupant load based on
in the design community over the past can be performed on the system while load factors found in the building code.
10 to 15 years, fire protection systems are knowing what equipment is in place and Developing egress plans in a 2-D plat-
now being designed using BIM applica- without having to field-verify equip- form often requires the use of polylines
tions. Some software programs export ment every time. This can include major to determine the required area of the
the information from the BIM model to equipment, such as pumps, controllers, space. Once that is determined, a manual
2-D for shop-drawing use. This allows valves, and sprinklers. The transfer of calculation is performed to determine
for continuity in the model as the con- the information in the BIM model to the occupant load. Changes to the plan
struction process begins. It also allows the end user allows the use for facilities- show up when the polylines differ from
for continuous coordination from the management purposes the initial layout.
design to construction phases. BIM applications for fire alarm and With BIM applications, changes to
The BIM model allows the design detection systems are not as common as rooms and areas can be automated using
team to determine space layouts for for suppression systems. This may be due the BIM model to show deviations in the
major equipment and then the contrac- to the smaller size of equipment as well areas and calculated loads. This automa-
tor to avoid field conflicts with other as wiring runs being easier to coordinate tion can reduce the effort typically seen
trades and key building elements. By in the field, whereas suppression systems when using only a 2-D model or appli-
adapting the design model to construc- have a need for coordinating larger pipe cation.

32 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 www.csemag.com

 Required egress capacity also can
be automated using BIM applications.
While doors, stairs, and other exit
components still need to be placed, the
BIM application can help confirm the
exit capacity is sufficient to accommo-
date the calculated occupant load. The
designer can take the occupants of the
various rooms and spaces into consid-
eration when determining the required
egress routes, and the BIM application
can confirm that the capacity is within
the required amounts. This allows the
calculation of occupant loads and confir-
mation of overall and individual capacity
to be streamlined, saving time and effort.
When developing egress plans, the most
tedious task is determining the calculat-
ed occupant loads and required capacity
and verifying that all building occupants
are accounted for in the exiting capacity.
When dealing with very large crowds,
automating this portion of the process
can be of great benefit.
Using the data from the model allows
the fire protection designer to automate
some of the exiting process. Engineers
will still need to manually determine the
exit flow, but the time to determine the
total occupant load and the required exit
capacity is reduced. It is also very useful
for streamlining the changes in design
that occurs during the overall design
process. By using a BIM application,
more time can be spent on determining
the egress routes while less time overall
is needed to develop the exiting scheme
for the building.
Benefits and special needs
Other examples include using BIM
applications to develop a hazardous
materials identification system (HMIS)
or a hazardous materials management
plan (HMMP). An HMIS is essentially a
survey of all of the potentially hazardous
materials found or used in a building.
The type of material must be quantified
in terms of weight or volume and then
analyzed toward its classifications. Is
it a physical hazard, such as combus-
tible and flammable materials, or it is
a health hazard, such as a corrosive or
toxic material? How much of the mate-
www.csemag.com
Figure 3: A BIM model shows penetrations of a fire-resistance-rated wall that will
require protection.
rial is being used or stored in a given
space or process?
Once these are determined, then an
inventory can be developed that shows
how much and of what type each haz-
ardous material exists. The benefit of
using a BIM application is to allow the
data to be stored in the model or data-
base for future reference and for the
initial survey. It can be used to allow
the designer to determine whether
the amount of material being used or
stored in the space is within the exempt
amounts allowed by code. If the material
exceeds the code-exempt amounts, then
additional measures need to be taken
into account for the room or space to
comply with code.
The inventory can then be developed
in a BIM model that correlates to the
location of the space within the build-
ing and shows the nature of the space
for building operators and possibly
responding personnel. Rather than cata-
log the inventory in a separate database,
the BIM model or database can be used
to store this information. This model
can be used during the design of the
building to formulate the code-required
protection scheme and by the end user
for building operations.
The end user also can use this to main-
tain the types and quantities of materials
at the levels for which the building or
space is designed. This becomes part of
Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
the HMMP and takes on a life through
the lifecycle of the building, rather than
as a separate database to be used when
determining the impacts that changes to
the building may have.
Fire resistance
Another benefit for using BIM applica-
tions to coordinate fire protection designs
is the ability to define wall types for
opening protection requirements. In the
United States, most of the jurisdictions
use an edition of the International Build-
ing Code (IBC). The IBC defines various
wall types and requires different levels of
protection based on these wall types. It
also defines fire partitions and fire barri-
ers and has fire-resistance ratings ranging
from 30 minutes to 3 hours. Fire barri-
ers used for exiting also take on different
opening protection requirements.
Opening protection for fire-resis-
tance-rated walls, floors, and roofs range
from doors and windows to ductwork
and penetrations. Each opening or pen-
etration requires a specifically listed
assembly to protect the integrity of the
wall or barrier. Using BIM applications,
the designer can identify the specific
wall or floor configuration by not only
defining the fire-resistance rating, but
also the specific wall or floor classifica-
tion. This would allow other designers
to choose the appropriate protection for
the opening or penetration.
33
 Coordinating fire protection designs via BIM
The fire protection designer often
works closely with the architect to define
the wall type and then advise on the pro-
tection scheme for doors and windows.
Door ratings can include fire-resistance-
rated doors, smoke- and draft-control
assemblies that provide fire and smoke
protection, and doors that have spe-
cific requirements for the maximum
transmitted-temperature rise. It can be
difficult to design the correct door type
if only the hourly rating of the wall is
shown on the plans. Using BIM applica-
tions, designers can more readily iden-
tify the specific wall type to choose the
right door application.
For example, if the wall is a 1-hour-rated
corridor, a 20-minute smoke-and-draft
control assembly can be chosen for the
design. However, if the wall is a 1-hour fire
barrier, a 45-minute fire door is required.
If the wall is part of an exit enclosure, then
the 2-hour wall would require a 90-min-
ute-rated door with the T rating to meet
the temperature-rise requirements.
With 2-D applications, a line type is
usually used to identify the wall type,
which typically only identifies the hourly
rating. If a BIM application is used, the
database contains not only the hourly
rating, but also the specific type of wall.
This level of information could avoid
costly changes in the field caused by the
wrong application being chosen based
only on the hourly rating.
Consider all requirements
Another benefit to using a BIM appli-
cation for identifying wall types is for
the protection of HVAC ductwork that
penetrates fire-resistance-rated wall and
floor assemblies. As with doors, there
are different requirements for protect-
ing the opening where ductwork passes
through the assembly. Some penetra-
tions require fire dampers, some require
smoke dampers, some require both, and
some do not require dampers at all if
other measures are provided.
It will help in the coordination of the
HVAC design if the specific wall types
are known, so that the appropriate type
of protection for the ductwork can be
34 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
chosen. There are many damper varia-
tions from which to choose based on
the wall type and configuration. If the
designer is able to better identify the
type of wall by referencing the BIM
model, this would better help in the
coordination of the design and also
avoid costly changes arising from the
wrong damper being chosen.
Figure 4: A fire sprinkler riser room is
shown. An isometric diagram coordi-
nates the location of a multiple riser
assemblies within the building.
Lastly, by using BIM to identify a
specific wall type, the penetrations
can be identified and the appropriate
through-stop penetration assembly can
be chosen. Through-stop penetration
assemblies are as numerous as they
are specific to the type and amount of
items (conduit, pipe, ductwork, etc.)
penetrating the rated assembly as well
as the types of assembly being penetrat-
ed. By identifying the type of assembly
and knowing the types of penetrants,
the designer can have more control
over the types of penetration-protection
schemes to use. The designer also may
be able to adapt the design of the pen-
etrations to match available through-
stop penetration assemblies.
The use of BIM applications to coor-
dinate opening protection for walls and
floors has numerous possibilities. Some
can be adapted today and put in use
while others may need to be worked on
for future applications. The true ben-
efit of identifying wall types depends
on how the different models are shared
by various disciplines. Because each
discipline essentially creates its own
model from the architects model, the
models would have to be shared or
linked to gain the maximum benefit. By
doing this, the fire protection designer
can identify the type of wall and then
the architects, interior designers, and
mechanical and electrical trades can
determine the appropriate protection
scheme for openings and penetrations.
The use of BIM brings new tools to
the fire protection designer, as it can
now provide more than a 2-D or 3-D
model to the design. It allows infor-
mation specific to the design into the
model itself. It can be used as a database
for ongoing reference for service and
parts inventory as well as a database
for cataloging materials within specific
areas of the building.
It also can enhance the design work-
flow process by giving the designers the
necessary information to appropriately
design their systems where conflicts
may occur. This is especially true where
equipment and designs require pene-
trations of fire-resistance-rated walls.
The BIM model also can help automate
some of the design process, saving time
and cost. The advantages to using BIM
for coordinating fire protection designs
is only limited by the things we have not
thought of yet.
Allyn Vaughn is president at JBA Con-
sulting Engineers, an NV5 Co., and has
been a fire protection engineer for more
than 30 years. He has been involved with
life safety system development and coordi-
nation in large-scale buildings using BIM
for many of his projects.
www.csemag.com
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Using
B
BIM for project
coordination
BIM is used frequently when working across
multiple disciplines, which can prevent clashes
across mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and
fire protection engineering and with other
stakeholders.
BY DEREK MAIN, CannonDesign, Buffalo, N.Y.
36 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
Figure 1: A coordi-
nated mechanical
room is modeled to a
level of development
(LOD) 300. At an
LOD 300, all piping,
equipment and other
items are modeled at
actual size, quantity
and type, which is
necessary for proper
coordination. All
graphics courtesy:
CannonDesign
uilding information modeling
(BIM), clash detection, clash
prevention, level of develop-
ment (LOD), 4-D, 5-D: These
are terms heard or used regu-
larly by those working in the architec-
ture, engineering, construction (AEC)
Industry. But at the rate these terms are
thrown around, do we really understand
what they are? Are we really doing what
we say were doing? If we arent, why arent
we? Are we following best practices?
Many engineers assume that if theyre
using Revit, theyre doing BIM. However,
although Revit is one of the many tools
to use for BIM, many individuals only
use Revit for 3-D modelingand they
Learning objectives
 Understand the basics of BIM for project
coordination.
 Compare clash prevention and clash detec-
tion; identify where each is best used for BIM
coordination.
 Illustrate how BIM can improve workflow
and overall engineering design.
www.csemag.com
may or may not be coordinating among
disciplines. Three-dimensional model-
ing is only considered BIM when infor-
mation is tied to what is modeled; that
is, when elements in the model have data
in them that is scheduled on drawings
or used for cost estimating, exported for
other tasks in construction, or even used
for facilities management.

Clash prevention versus

clash detection
When it comes to using BIM coor-
dination to determine where elements
fit, there are primarily two processes
of coordination: clash prevention and
clash detection.
Clash prevention provides assurance
that the modeled geometry of all build-
ing components and systems will fit in
their allocated space and that all items
can maintain access and serviceability.
This process is primarily done during
the design phase when laying out the
routing of all systems. While not every Figure 2: Using Revits interference check tool allows an engineer to quickly find any
offset or adjustment is shown in the invalid intersections that may have been missed through other coordination methods.
model for design documentation, the
building can be constructed without
issue, and any adjustments not requir-
ing a request for information (RFI) are
made by the contractor during the con-
struction phase.
Most clash prevention tasks on a project
can be performed simultaneously while
developing the design, but require each
individual on the project team to do due
diligence of coordinating any congested
areas of the building. While designers are
working in a model, some critical areas
may still require communication among
team members, whether it be face-to-face,
over the phone, via email, etc.
The clash-detection process is a review
that ensures all building components,
assemblies, and systems properly fit in
their to-be-installed condition without
interferences or encroachment with any
other building assemblies. This process
is occasionally done by the design team
if required; however, this is often done on
the contracting side. Several ways clash
detection can be accomplished include, Figure 3: Navisworks is a popular software solution to use for model-coordination
but are not limited to: reviews and clash detection.

www.csemag.com Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 37

 Using BIM for project coordination
Figure 4: This project involved remodeling an existing building where the floor load
doubled, requiring additional beams to be added with a spacing of 5 ft on center.
Using structural plan views made it easy to coordinate drain and floor penetrations
for the restaurant areas above.
 Interference check reports in Revit
 Clash detective in Navisworks
Manage
 Model checks by visual inspection
in 3-D coordination views.
The interference check tool in Revit
has received some improvements recently,
allowing for easier coordination checks.
Within the tool, element categories are
selected to compare against other ele-
ments in the model or with elements in
other linked models, such as inspecting for
clashes between structural steel and plumb-
ing piping. After the report is run, elements
that have an invalid intersection (collision)
are listed, with both element ID number
and a descriptive name ID. These can then
be selected and shown in an available view
to adjust. Using this method can be quicker
than performing clash detection in a sepa-
rate program, however, using a program like
Navisworks for this may be better perfor-
mance-wise for those using computers with
less horsepower on larger projects.
Clash detection in Navisworks is prob-
ably the most well-known option when it
38 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
comes to BIM coordination and is very
popular on the contractor side. Navis-
works can handle many different file
types and is typically quicker to use than
an equivalent Revit model. Search sets
can be used for filtering or color-coding
the various systems in a model, and clash
detection is relatively easy as well. Dur-
ing the coordination process, clashes
can be found in the Navisworks model
and updated in the Revit model. These
updates are done manually in the Revit
model; however, Autodesk does have a
tool called switchback, which allows users
to quickly move back and forth between
the Revit design and Navisworks review
models.
Coordination views that are predefined
in the Revit model are easy to use for both
clash prevention and clash detection.
These can include 3-D views, sections,
and working views that are double-line
(fine detail level of graphics) as well as
color-coded with filters applied to the
various systems. These views are regularly
used throughout the design of a project
and can be used in coordination meetings
instead of the old paper tacked to the
wall method, which usually still results
in some coordination issues.
Another type of coordination or work-
ing view in Revit that is valuable during
design is the structural plan view. These
views are used to see where the beams
or foundations are located that support
the level being viewed. With these, it is
easy to coordinate the location of floor
drains, fixture drains, or any other floor
penetrations.
LOD specification
The LOD, while sometimes referred
to as the level of detail, is actually the
level of development specification. This
is a reference used in the AEC industry
to standardize the level of quality and
reliability of content in building infor-
mation models at various stages of the
design and construction process. This
specification receives annual updates and
review by BIMForum, the U.S. chapter of
buildingSMART International. The LOD
in a model has a direct connection with
coordination in that model, and using the
BIMForum LOD for your companys stan-
dard level of detail is best for collabora-
tion with other firms or contractors on the
same project. For clash detection or even
clash prevention, a minimum of LOD 300
is required. At an LOD 300, all piping,
equipment, and other items are modeled
at actual size, quantity, and type, which is
necessary for proper coordination.
When agreeing on the LOD for a proj-
ect, it is better to think about what level
the project is required to be at for com-
pletion, rather than what is desired at
each phase. While an LOD 200 (in which
most content is generic in size, shape, or
type) may only be needed for an earlier
phase of a project, sometimes it makes
sense for some content to already be
at an LOD 350 (where content is true
to size, shape, and type and may have
embedded information).
For example, at the design develop-
ment phase of a project, the require-
ments may be to provide an LOD 200.
However, the water heater may have
already been selected, so an LOD 350 is
used to place the water heater graphi-
cally in the model. Also included at a
www.csemag.com
LOD 350 is the parameter information
that is automatically populated in the
water heater or equipment schedule,
which in turn is needed for the design
development submission. For this rea-
son, it is better to view the required LOD
for each phase as a minimum rather than
as a required target.
Keep in mind, the LOD for a project
is usually specified in a projects con-
tract and BIM execution plan, where
many firms have an LOD to which they
typically design projects. However, some
projects may have circumstances requir-
ing a different LOD from the norm, so
it is helpful for this information to be
communicated to team members during
a projects BIM kickoff meeting where
all model-related information is shared
with the project team.
Beyond 3-D
Outside of geometry coordination,
there is another coordination pro-
cess that can be happening with BIM.
Four-dimensional, or model-based
scheduling, happens when we virtually
communicate planned construction
phases in a project by merging model
data with project schedule milestones
and duration. Being able to visually
CASE STUDY: Robinson-Falconio Residence Hall
A complete renovation was finished on this
St. Bonaventure University (N.Y.) dormitory
building of approximately 85,000 sq ft, includ-
ing replacing a majority of the domestic water
and waste systems as well as the addition of
a sprinkler system conforming with NFPA 13R;
Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems
in Low-Rise Residential Occupancies. For this
project, the process of clash prevention was used
for BIM coordination.
With a floor-to-floor elevation of 8 ft 8.5 in., the
structural concrete building allowed for 7.5 in. of
space above a 7 ft corridor ceiling height. In the
adjacent rooms, a decreased slab thickness and
an exposed ceiling allowed for a clear height of 8
ft 3 in. Soffits with sidewall sprinkler heads were
used for protecting these rooms, while concealed
pendent sprinkler heads were located in corridors
and community spaces with ceilings.
www.csemag.com
Figure 5: Using the automation of piping systems in Revit allows for better coordination
between sheets, in addition to improved quality and quicker design changes or revisions.
plan and simulate with time and space model to quantify materials allows for
allows team members to review and better alignment between project bud-
improve trade coordination, phased get and the design/construction pro-
construction, site logistics, and instal- cess. To ensure accuracy, using BIM for
lation sequencing. For example, review cost estimating should be an item that
of the model geometry shows that some is defined in the projects requirements.
mechanical, electrical, and plumbing Elements in the model can be quantified
(MEP) systems may need to be installed in automated schedules and extracted
out of order to ensure proper fit or for use in other cost-estimating soft-
coordination during construction. ware, such as Innovaya Visual and Sage
Five-dimensional is model-based Estimating.
cost estimating, where using the BIM
With tight clearances and the need to maintain
constructability, even a 1-in. sprinkler branch pipe
needed to be routed where it would not cross
over an electrical fixture or light mounted in the
ceiling. Other areas of the building needed extra
attention as well, such as the shower rooms where
downlights in each stall needed to be offset to
allow clearance for exhaust ductwork and the
drain p-trap from the floor above.
Thorough clash prevention was performed
throughout the design of the building, including
holding coordination meetings, with all work and
coordination accomplished in Autodesk Revit soft-
ware. As a result, there was only one request for
information during construction for the plumbing Figure 6: Coordinated sections were
and fire protection design: An existing wall that was placed on drawings to aid the contrac-
chosen to install a flush-mount fire department tor in locating the various mechanical,
connection was not viable, so a free-standing fire electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems
department connection was used instead. in tight, congested areas.
Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 39
 Using BIM for project coordination
For instance, having the plumbing
systems modeled accurately with equip-
ment and fixture content, pipe sizes, and
location allows for a significant reduction
in time for the cost estimators. Instead
of counting fixtures and measuring pipe
runs on a set of drawing plans and enter-
ing that information into estimating soft-
ware, the estimator can open the model
and export data directly into the software,
saving hours of time.
But wait, theres more
When thinking about BIM coordina-
tion, the terms clash prevention, clash
detection, LOD, etc. are all obvious pro-
cesses that come to mind. However, there
is another type of coordination in BIM:
automation.
CASE STUDY: Wegmans Food Markets
W egmans Food Markets built a new store
in Owings Mills, Md., of approximately
130,000 sq ft with a considerable amount of food
prep/production/kitchen space and a burger bar.
For the design deliverable, the engineers were
required to produce an Autodesk Revit model
and documents that had all mechanical, electri-
cal, and plumbing (MEP) systems in their to-be-
installed conditions, including dimensioning of
some system mains and all floor penetrations.
Figure 7: Weekly coordination meetings
with prepopulated views in the model
proved valuable for determining solu-
tions to coordination issues that would
appear in congested areas.
40 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
When working in a Revit model, auto-
mation is another form of coordina-
tion. Taking advantage of Revits piping
systems allows for flow in piping to be
automated, which can then be tagged.
When these are automated and tagged,
the information is consistent between
drawing sheets; the values on floor plans
match the values on riser diagrams.
When a modification is made to the
design, the changed values are automati-
cally updated on all affected sheets.
In addition to the piping, automa-
tion of all schedules also improves the
coordination between sheets and MEP
disciplines on a project. Using content
with true dimension and parameter
information allows for fixture and equip-
ment schedules to be populated with this
Other requirements included adequate spacing
for constructability, such as offsets from walls for
hanging drywall, proper spacing between hangers
for decorative features, and ensuring any system
penetrations through walls were above trim work.
In addition, it was necessary to have all systems
and mains located for maintaining serviceability
and future modifications in renovation, such as
being able to dig up a sanitary main for drain
relocations in one area without having to tear
into walls or go through other areas not receiving
renovations.
It was also necessary to run clash-detection
reports in Navisworks and provide model walk-
throughs with the owners design group. These
model walkthroughs allowed the client to see how
the buildings MEP systems would look before
construction, to ensure they maintain the required
appearance as well as to locate any desired chang-
es with the MEP systems. At the end of construc-
tion and after the store opened, any changes or
adjustments in construction also needed to be
incorporated into the Revit design model, which
would then become the as-built model.
Over the course of the projects design, weekly
coordination meetings lasting 1 to 2 hours were
conducted to visually inspect the MEP systems
throughout the building. These meetings were
conducted while in the Revit model with predefined
coordination views, using a meeting room with a PC
and a large interactive display panel for everyone
information. The schedule sheets are
coordinated with the floor plans, and
any changes made in the model to these
items related to quantity, type, etc., will
automatically update in the schedules.
As the popularity of BIM increases, 2-D
construction documents seem to evolve
from being more schematic in nature.
Complaints about this, expressed by proj-
ect engineers, include drawings not look-
ing the way theyre used to seeing them,
changes in workflow requiring designers
to model in a third dimension, and hours
shifting to performing different or unfa-
miliar tasks. While these are all true, and
there are learning curves to some work-
flows, the improved coordination and
efficiency of working in a 3-D world allow
for quicker design completion.
to see the model at once, in addition to having a
video conference call session running for those that
were working on the project from a different office.
While all team members were doing their due
diligence for clash prevention when laying out
their systems, these meetings proved valuable
for determining solutions to coordination issues
that would appear in congested areas. Toward
the end of the design phase, clash detection also
was performed by one team member from each
discipline to ensure there were no interferences.
While there were many building layout and
design changes that resulted in revisions, proper
coordination and clash detection allowed for
minimal revisions to the plumbing systems via
requests for information due to conflicts. One
was the adjustment of a sprinkler branch line
that was clipping a duct, which was easy to cor-
rect. The other issue was an interference with a
couple of drain p-traps and the structural footing,
which was also easy to resolve. Unfortunately, this
was missed when coordinating with the structural
engineering team, as that portion was performed
by another engineering firm that was not using
Revit at the time.
For this project, an in-house structural engineer
created and updated a model of the structure from
design progress drawings, which worked out well.
Having to recreate the model was extra effort, so
it is beneficial for all external team members to
use the same or compatible software.
www.csemag.com
 The 2-D drawing is still the primary effort on the owners side to keep infor- BIMForums LOD specification pro-
document to construct from; however, mation up-to-date, but for some owners, vides an industry standard for a mini-
it is produced from a 3-D model. Areas, this effort can be worth it long-term. mum baseline that architects and engi-
such as a toilet chase wall, may appear neers can follow for better alignment
congested on a plan view, as piping is So what does this all mean? when collaborating with other proj-
modeled as it would be installed instead While the AEC industry as a whole has ect partners. Model-based scheduling
of being spaced where it would be graph- been a bit slower to improve processes (4-D) can improve timelines to meet
ically pleasing, but a reference to an iso- as compared with other industries, there shorter construction windows and 5-D
metric view quickly clarifies the area. are significant advances happening right model-based cost estimating allows for
Not only are these 3-D isometric views now. Not only is BIM here to stay, but the design to better align with required
significantly quicker to generate than a the available software for use with BIM is project costs. At the end of construction,
flat riser diagram would be, but they continuously improving in capabilities and not only has the project team provided
are typically clearer and easier to under- interoperability. a better-quality project, the owner has
stand for contractors needing to install While some feel that various workflows more accurate data that can be retained
the system, resulting in fewer RFIs. in BIM take too much time, the reality and used for facilities management or
In some instances, more emphasis is is that many other workflows and tasks future renovations.
put on the isometrics, rather than the throughout a project see improved effi-
plan views, to define the design system. ciency and a significant reduction in time Derek Main is a plumbing engineer and
In addition, while working in a 3-D world as a result. With shorter design and con- BIM development leader at CannonDesign
is an adjustment for more experienced struction time frames, tighter budgets, with 9 years of experience in educational,
engineers, it allows for younger designers and higher expectations from clients, health care, and grocery markets. In addi-
to get up to speed quicker, as it is much BIM is invaluable. Clash prevention and tion, he is responsible for managing and
easier to understand how these systems detection allow for better-coordinated advancing the digital practice/design pro-
are put together in 3-D than in 2-D. projects, resulting in fewer RFIs. cesses for the firms plumbing group.
Automation of various processes
in the plumbing design allows for a
better coordinated drawing set, bet-
ter coordination with other MEP dis-
ciplines, and cost estimation. It also
allows better overall drawing quality.
This automation, in combination with
smarter model content, can then allow
the owner to use the BIM for facilities
management. When model elements
are consistent with the manufacturers
data, such as make, model, product data,
and other information, they can then be
exported to Excel or used with other
software products, such as Building-
Ops in the BIM360 suite.
While this may require owners to adapt
or use new software, the electronic infor-
mation can enable better record-keeping,
such as recording building conditions,
than traditional paper drawings and
equipment binders that are easily lost.
If a piece of equipment fails, a facilities
engineer can scan the equipment tag with
their electronic device and view infor-
mation, such as the install date or any
possible warranty information, in one
place. Using a model and its information
for facilities management does require

APRIL 2017 41 input #12 at www.csemag.com/information

 Figure 1: This render-
ing shows the electric
lighting in the space
at a very reduced level
due to available day-
light, showcasing the
implementation of day-
lighting control using
networked lighting con-
trols. All graphics cour-
tesy: CannonDesign

Networked
lighting controls
With the advent of building technology comes the need for monitoring and
intercommunication between heating, cooling, electrical, lighting, fire/life
safety, and other systems for optimized efficiency and operation.

BY ROBERT J. GARRA JR., PE, CDT, CannonDesign, Grand Island, N.Y.

L
Learning
objectives
 Understand the basics of
networked lighting controls in
commercial buildings.
 Review codes and stan-
dards that address require-
ments of lighting controls.
 Discover how lighting con-
trols can lead to better energy
efficiency.
ighting is typically one of the
largest energy loads in any
building, and historically, it
has been the hardest to control.
For example, have you ever
wondered if people would really notice
if you evenly reduced the output of light
fixtures in a corridor or open space?
Think of the energy savings. Thankfully,
technological advancements have led to
a solution that is extremely effective at
combating these issues: networked light-
ing controls.
The networked lighting control system
leverages the power of digitization and
granularity to completely control a build-
ings lighting system from a centralized
location. When properly implemented,
these systems are user-friendly and easy
to maintainand they streamline physi-
cal operation and maintenance. Software-
based lighting control also allows sharing
of data not only between components of
the lighting control system, but also with
mechanical, fire safety, and security sys-
tems. This integration of smart systems

42 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 www.csemag.com

enables effective management of all the
buildings energy consumers to realize
energy reduction and cost savings.
The term networked lighting control
system may sound complicated, but what
it really means is that you are layering
communication interfaces over common
hardware components that have been tra-
ditionally usedballasts, lamps, occupan-
cy sensors, and other control devices. The
hardware is pretty much the same as it has
always been; the real change and advance-
ment is the software systems.
Updates to codes and standards
Energy codes, such as ASHRAE Stan-
dard 90.1: Energy Standard for Build-
ing Except Low-Rise Residential Build-
ings, International Energy Conservation
Code (IECC), and California Title 24, are
becoming more stringent, and networked
lighting controls simply make it much
easier to comply. With each new version,
energy codes are trending toward the ulti-
mate goal of net zero energy consump-
tion. Each of the codes is updated every
3 years, and biggest changes are made
to the thresholds for triggering compli-
ance, which are revised in each edition to
encompass more projects.
Instead of looking at lighting control
from a building level, many engineers still
try to address each energy code require-
ment on a space-by-space basis, installing
multiple types of systems (e.g., relay con-
trol, architectural dimming systems, wall
box dimming) in a single building without
any central control. While this approach
may satisfy the projects basic functional
and energy code requirements, it makes it
difficult for building managers and facil-
ity operators to maintain. Having multiple
systems to maintain is much more cum-
bersome than maintaining just one system.
Energy code requirements, rising
energy costs, the importance of histori-
cal and up-to-the-minute building data-
collection and analysis, research on the
effectiveness of controls, emerging tech-
nologies like easy-to-control LEDs, and
demand for green buildings have driven
manufacturers to develop systems that
engineers can implement to meet these
www.csemag.com
Figure 2: A rending illustrates the output of a lighting study showing the results of task
tuning and daylighting control in a space using networked controls. Only the lighting nec-
essary for the task of presentation is at full output, due to the contribution of daylight.
changes. The thinking now is to achieve
a seamless installation that provides user
comfort, but only consumes what you
absolutely need. With the addition of the
plug-load control requirement, lighting
control systems are quickly moving into
the realm of energy management.
System implementation
A review of networked control manu-
facturers will show that each manufactur-
er configures its hardware and software
interface a little different. The major man-
ufacturers fit into one of three categories:
n System typeall devices and com-
ponents must be from the same manufac-
turer as the control system. The commu-
nication between hardware and software is
embedded in the devices and components.
n Non-system typedevices and com-
ponents can be from any manufacturer.
The communication between hardware
and software is layered over the top of the
devices and components.
n Non-system type with digital
addressable lighting interface (DALI)
devices and components can be from any
manufacturer as long as they have the
DALI protocol integrated. The commu-
nication between hardware and software
uses the DALI protocol interface.
But what really sets these systems apart
is the software interface. Several manufac-
turers now use a graphical user interface
(GUI) that allows the user to point and
click to make programming changes to
the system. The allows the system to be
easily adapted to changing building and
Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
workspace uses. Minor reconfiguration of
spaces can be implemented through the
control software without having to alter
wiring or luminaires.
Software can provide unprecedented
energy-management power by enabling
centralized management (with remote
access); integration and data sharing with
other building systems, such as building
automation systems (BAS), security sys-
tems, or fire alarm systems; and auto-
matically generated maintenance alerts,
device- and system-commissioning
reports, and device-usage reports. Armed
with all of this data and control, building
operators are empowered to optimize
energy consumption in their facilities.
Advantages of networked lighting
control systems
Networked lighting control systems
provide centralized control to ensure
that all spaces can be optimized around
energy savings and visual performance.
The best combination of said energy
savings and visual performance can
be achieved by implementing six basic
lighting control strategies:
n Time/astronomical scheduling:
Lighting in a defined area turns on or off,
or dims, based on a predetermined, cus-
tomizable schedule.
n Occupancy/vacancy control: Light-
ing is turned on or off based on detected
occupancy. With vacancy control, users
must manually turn lights on, but lights
are automatically turned off when a space
is vacant.
43
 Networked lighting controls
n Daylight harvesting: Electric light
levels are automatically adjusted to
account for the amount of natural sun-
light in a space. Appropriate light levels
are maintained for functional purposes,
and total illumination is evenly main-
tained throughout the space.
n Task tuning: Maximum light levels
are set for a particular use or task in a
specific room to prevent overlighting.
n Personal control: Individuals can
tailor the lighting in their workspace to
their personal preferences, via a GUI on
their computer.
n Load shedding (or demand-
response): Lighting control can contribute
to a buildingwide effort to reduce demand.
Lighting is turned off or dimmed in prede-
termined areas at times of peak demand.
In addition to maximizing lighting effi-
ciency, these systems increase occupant
satisfaction and possibly even productiv-
ity. When occupants have control over
their space, they tend to be happier and
more productive.
Best practices for design
implementation
Energy codes (ASHRAE 90.1, IECC,
Title 24) define functional requirements
that must be met by lighting controls with-
in the space. For example, for automatic
Figure 3: A rending illustrates the output of a lighting study showing the electric light-
ing the space at a targeted level due to available daylight.
44 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
daylighting control, ASHRAE 90.1 states
that electric lighting shall be reduced with
at least one control step that is between
50% and 70% of design lighting power and
another control step that is no greater than
35% of power design.
The following examples spell out best
practices for implementing current energy
code requirements:
n Start with a simple user-triggered
lighting strategy. In each area of the
building, occupants turn lights on and
off via a low-voltage switch. Electricity
savings are maximized if users turn the
lights on manually when they enter and
remember to turn them off when they
exit. If the user forgets to turn the lights
off, automatic sensor coverage picks up
the slack, signaling the central lighting
control system to switch the lighting off
in an area that is unoccupied or vacant,
per energy code requirements. Vacancy
sensors are generally considered more
efficient than, therefore preferable to,
occupancy sensors, because they only
turn lighting off, not onusers have
to turn lights on manually. In a private
office with large windows letting in
ample daylight, for example, the vacancy
sensor ensures that the lights will only be
turned on when occupants truly want or
need them.
n In addition to the simple light-
ing switching strategy, the networked
lighting control system automatically
dims the lighting in areas that have
adequate daylight penetration. As day-
light levels change, the dimming levels
of individual luminaires are adjusted
so that the total illumination is evenly
maintained throughout the space at the
required level.
n The networked lighting control
system controls emergency egress light-
ing. In the past, lighting on emergency
circuits was often on 24/7 as a safety
measure, burning through the night long
after building occupants left. Advances
in control devices now allow emergency
lighting circuits to be controlled by time
schedules or by automatic sensors. By
equipping these devices with a UL 924
emergency transfer device that can over-
ride the digital lighting control system if
normal power is lost, the system is able
to turn on all lights connected to the
emergency circuit and maintain egress
levels for occupant safety without wast-
ing energy when no one is around.
n The advanced lighting control system
is digitally connected to the BAS to use
the detection signal of occupancy sen-
sors at all hours to adjust mechanical set-
points. If multiple lighting control zones
are provided in a single mechanical sys-
tem zone, the lighting control system can
accumulate the occupancy zones within
the mechanical zone to help refine the
efficiency of the HVAC system.
Common concerns
One concern often voiced about net-
worked lighting control systems is that
they are expensive. To operate a net-
worked lighting control system at the
extreme of optimization, each light fix-
ture would be individually controlled,
therefore, equipped with a dimming
ballast or driver. Such a system could be
very expensive.
A few things have helped make these
systems become competitive. First, LED
technology is increasingly affordable
and is being used more frequently. One
advantage of LED lighting is that it is
www.csemag.com
inherently dimmable; if you pair the and future energy code regulations, while understands clients and their goals, Garra
LEDs dimmable driver with a compat- achieving client goals related to energy applies his project leadership and industry
ible control, additional components are conservation, reduced operating costs, knowledge across the firms market seg-
not required to tune the light. The 20% and improved lighting quality. ments while providing strategic direction
to 30% adder for a dimmable fluorescent to the engineering group. He is a member of
ballast over a standard fluorescent ballast Robert J. Garra Jr. is vice president at the Consulting-Specifying Engineer edito-
has disappeared now that LED technol- CannonDesign. An engineering leader who rial advisory board.
ogy has become more mainstream and
cost-effective, thus opening up the pos-
sibilities of light modularity as the norm
instead of a novelty.
Second, as engineers have learned
how to leverage networked lighting con-
trols to manage energy usage, they have
realized that significant savings in the
system first cost could be achieved by
thoughtfully grouping control of light
fixtures into zoned areas and not relying
on individual light fixture control, which
is rarely necessary in typical building
designs. Third, most networked control
systems use distributed low-voltage com-
ponents instead of more traditional pipe
and wire control strategies, so costs
associated with a less rigorous installa-
CHOOSING CAT MEANS

tion method can often be reduced if a
savvy contractor is brought on to imple-
ment the design. I GET MORE POWER IN
Another common concern is that
networked lighting control systems are
A SMALLER SPACE.
difficult to manage. But this is generally Our new higher power density ratings mean you get
a matter of perception. When dealing more efficient standby power with a smaller footprint,
with a building that has more than 1,000 so you have more space for your work. Youll also get
light fixtures, the thought of individually the same legendary reliability and performance you
controlling each of them can seem over- expect from Caterpillar, and the peace of mind of
whelming. But, as noted earlier, individ- Cat dealer support.
ual control isnt necessary, and careful
Now thats an easy choice.
planning can create a system that goes
a long way to help facilities managers Learn more at cat.com/choosecat1
truly understand more about how their
buildings really operate. Management of
the entire building is done through web-
based software. Anyone comfortable
with using software on a PC will find
this kind of system very straightforward
to manage properly.
Rising energy costs and more regulation
3512C
through energy codes are making energy 1750 eKW rating
management a top priority for building
owners and facility managers. Networked
lighting controls give designers additional
tools to deliver solutions that both meet
2017 Caterpillar. All Rights Reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, BUILT FOR IT,
and exceed the expectations of current their respective logos, Caterpillar Yellow, the Power Edge trade dress
as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of
Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.

APRIL 2017 45 input #13 at www.csemag.com/information

 CFE Medias
New Products for
Engineers Database
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Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 47
Supporting Engineers In-Person,
Offering High-Value Content
In-Print and Online
40 Under 40: The Consulting-Specifying Engineer 40 Under 40
program was born out of Consulting-Specifying Engineers ongoing mission
to foster mentoring in the engineering industry. 40 of the most talented
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Webcasts: Need some continuing education? Look no further than

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AMANDA PELLICCIONE,
Project Manager,
CHRIS VAVRA,
Production Editor

Vote for this years

best products
Who will win gold in 2017? Consulting-Specifying Engineer
announces the finalists for this years 13th annual Product of the
Year competition, and readers will have the final word.
Cast your votes online at www.csemag.com/votepoy.

A
nother year of innovation and
 Air Movement, Dehumidification, Humidification 51
technological advancement has
 BAS, Controls, Energy Management 52
 Chillers 53 led up to the 13th annual Product
 Electrical: Cable, Wire, Components 54 of the Year awards. This year, companies
 Electrical Distribution 55 submitted new and improved products
 Electrical: Fuses, Circuit Breakers, Safety 56
introduced in the 2016 calendar year to be
 Emergency, Onsite, Standby Power 58
 Equipment-Level Sensors & Controls 59 judged for this distinguished honor. Here
 Fire, Life Safety, Mass Notification 60 are the finalists in each of the 16 catego-
 HVAC 62 ries. It is now up to Consulting-Specifying
 Lighting & Luminaires 65 Engineer readers to determine which
 Lighting Controls 68
products will stand out from the crowd
 Plumbing & Water Management 70
 Pumps, Pump Controls 71 and win gold, silver, and bronze.
 Software: Design, Modeling, Analysis 72 Go to www.csemag.com/votepoy
 Test Instruments, Meters, Data Loggers 74 and vote for the products you feel are the
best in their categories by June 30, 2017.

2017 The product that receives the most votes

within the program will be named the
Most Valuable Product (MVP) of 2017. The
results will appear in September 2017 in
print and online.
www.csemag.com/votepoy

Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 49

 Consulting-
Specifying Engineer
Webcasts help you
obtain educational

Webcasts information on
specific topics and
learn about the latest
industry trends.

Check out some of our

Webcasts on topics like:

Critical power: Backup, standby, and

emergency power in mission critical facilities

HVAC: Hospitals and health care facilities

Critical power: Emergency power

Electrical: Data and communications cabling

and pathways

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LEDs

Critical power: Power generation systems in

high-performance buildings

Fire and life safety: Specifying fire detection

and notification systems

Critical power: Designing electrical rooms

www.csemag.com/webcast
 2017
Air Movement, Dehumidification, Humidification

Air handling unit

V3 Series air handling units with energy-recovery wheels are
available from 450 to 10,000 cfm and provide a solution to help
a building exceed ASHRAE standards and acquire LEED points.
V3 Series units include energy-saving, double-wall rigid polyure-
thane foam-injected panel construction; high-efciency direct-
drive backward-curved plenum ECM supply and exhaust fans;
corrosion-resistant, double-sloped stainless steel drain pans;
and serviceability features. Energy-saving options include fully
modulating AMCA-certied low-leakage economizer dampers,
air-source heat pump heating, and factory-provided split-system
controls capable of controlling 10% to 100% variable-capacity
compressors for precise capacity modulation.
AAON, www.aaon.com

Smart industrial fan

The Powerfoil X3.0 smart industrial fan produces
15% more airow than its predecessor without
compromising durability and reliability. Power-
foil X3.0 includes a SmartSense controller that
provides convenience and improves efciency
by eliminating the guesswork of nding the ideal air
speed when temperatures change. SmartSense features
summer and winter modes as well as dual air temperature sen-
sors. When temperatures elevate in summer, the fan speeds up to combat the
heat with a cooling effect of up to 10F. In winter, SmartSense automatically slows the fan to gently push rising heated
air back down to occupants without creating a draft, easing the facility heater workload and reducing energy costs.
Big Ass Solutions, www.bigasssolutions.com

High-precision heater humidifier

The heaterSteam titanium features heating elements designed to work with ex-
tremely aggressive water, such as demineralized/deionized water with conductivity
below 1 S/cm and softened water of up to 0fH. The reliability of the titanium heat-
ing element in combination with the overheating protection makes this solution ideal
for applications where service continuity is essential (i.e., clean rooms, hospitals,
and museums). By using demineralized water, this heater humidier can meet hu-
midity requirements with 1% accuracy. The production-capacity modulation range
from 0% to 100% in combination with the possibility of preheating the water inside
the boiler means that heaterSteam is ready to respond to humidity requirements.
Carel, www.carelusa.com

Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 51

 2017
BAS, Controls, Energy Management

Rooftop-unit economizer
The Outside Air Optimization (OAO) Kit uses the power of cloud-based predictive analytics to
create thermal models of a building based on the past 7 days of tem-
perature and humidity space readings. Live data feeds forecasted
weather conditions and predicts the needs for proactive runtime and
damper-position optimization. The kit meets and exceeds California
Title 24-2013 economizer faults and ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2016.
This solution does not require retrotting the constant-volume RTU
and a variable frequency drive. Key features include demand-control
ventilation, comparative-enthalpy economizer control, multispeed fan
control, and 24/7 remote monitoring and control.
75F, www.75f.io

Touchscreen HVAC systems controller

The AAON Touchscreen Controller is an economical HVAC unit control solution for energy-
savings applications. It controls complex energy-saving operations without requiring the ex-
pense of a large building automation system. Applications include variable air volume (VAV),
single-zone VAV, make-up air, and constant air-volume control. It can control air-cooled
condenser systems, air-source heat pump systems, water-source heat pump systems, and
chilled-water and hot-water hydronic air handling units with modulating water valves. The
AAON Touchscreen Controller includes a user-friendly, high-contrast 4.3-in. touchscreen
interface and can function as a stand-alone unit controller or as part of a BACnet MS/TP or
Modbus RTU networked system.
AAON, www.aaon.com

Intelligent pump controller

Capable of running systems with up to eight
pumps, the fth-generation Hydrovar features
multimaster functionality, enabling each indi-
vidual pump to take control of the system if one
or more units or sensors are not active. This
ensures reliable water pressure across
commercial and industrial applica-
tions and can reduce energy
consumption of a pump by
as much as 70%. Hydrovar-
Connected-equipment controller
features a modular design
The Eclypse Connected Equipment Controller (ECY-303
that enables a customized
series) is designed to satisfy the needs of a wide range
t for any conguration of
of small and medium terminal HVAC equipment applica-
pumps. It can be retrot-
tions, with a diversied I/O count in a compact design
ted to any standard xed-
and footprint for easy in-cabinet installation. It integrates
speed pump motor suitable
a control, automation, and connectivity server; power
for variable-speed operation
supply; and I/O in one convenient package. It is a native
and can accommodate both new
BACnet/IP controller and is BTL-listed as a BACnet Build-
and retrot installations including
ing Controller. The controller features an embedded web
premium efcient motor designs.
server, hosting the Envysion HTML5-based conguration
Bell & Gossett, http://bellgossett.com
and visualization interface. It also features embedded
scheduling, alarming, and logging.
Distech Controls, www.distech-controls.com

52 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017

 2017
BAS, Controls, Energy Management
Building system support service
Connected Services helps facility leaders maximize their buildings through a
condition-based, proactive maintenance approach that effectively combines action-
able information, expert advice, and advanced technology to keep building systems
operating at peak performance. Connected Services includes new and enhanced
capabilities that create a network between facility teams and Schneider Electrics
experts to deliver a range of proactive maintenance support for facilities professionals
and engineers. Benets include digital connectivity that ensures facilities are always
monitored, better access to actionable information, expert advice/recommendations,
increased system uptime due to faster resolution when possible, and skilled techni-
cians equipped to focus on areas of greatest impact.
Schneider Electric, www.schneider-electric.com

Building management system

The Tracer Ensemble building management system makes advanced building manage-
ment fast and easy with a web-enabled, enterprise wide view into multiple buildings and
control systems. Tracer Ensemble helps organizations that are dealing with more build-
ings than maintenance staff, diverse systems and equipment vintages, and signicant
distances between facilities by improving access to system data. It enhances a building
automation system by providing custom dashboards that create a visual display of cur-
rent system health and performance. Global functionality provides the ability to man-
age schedules, setpoints, and alarms across the entire enterprise, while a uniform and
consistent user interface allows for rapid troubleshooting and faster response.
Trane, http://trane.com/commercial

Chillers

Variable-speed chiller
The AquaForce 30XV air-cooled variable-
speed chiller was developed to ensure performance and
efciency that meet the cooling needs of tomorrows build-
ings, in a design thats ready for action today. By using a
tiered approach, the 30XV can be customized to t almost
any building need, anywhere. With value-adding features,
such as variable-speed rotary screw compressors, quiet
AeroAcoustic fan system with variable frequency drives,
and microchannel condenser coil technology, this machine
is made for versatility, robustness, and efciency. User-
friendly control with color touchscreen display incorporat-
ing self-optimizing control enables the 30XV to run at
optimum performance at any given set of conditions.
Carrier, http://carrier.com/commercial
Air-cooled screw chiller
The YORK YVFA free-cooling, air-cooled screw chiller
combines variable-speed drive (VSD) screw compressors
with integrated waterside economizer free cooling into a
simple-to-operate package that is AHRI-certied. YVFA is
available in nominal sizes from 150 to 450, delivering more
than 2,110 kW at higher liquid temperatures. With intelligent
controls, the free-cooling coils reduce the mechanical cooling
load at a much higher ambient temperature, allowing the VSD
compressors to reduce speed and energy use more hours of
the year. YVFA combines control strategies with mechanical
advances to further enhance performance at all conditions.
Mechanical improvements include variable volume ratio com-
pressors and VSDs for both the compressors and fans.
Johnson Controls, www.johnsoncontrols.com

Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 53

 2017
Electrical: Cable, Wire, Components

Multilayered
conduit
The PMA XR90
multilayered conduit Duplex AC/MC strap
protects a greater The Crouse-Hinds 567BXD
range of cable for Duplex AC/MC Strap is
robotic and automa- designed for AC/MC and
tion applications with FMC cable. This strap
sizes up to NW 70 provides the capability to
and Metric 80. The mul- support and secure two
tilayered conduit indicates the individual AC, MC, or FMC cables by installing
extent of surface wear with three with a single screw. The duplex strap takes up
concentric layers of Nylon 12, less space, simplies installation, and offers a
each a different color. With no wear, clean and professional-looking installation. The
the PMA XR90 multilayered conduit retains its black surface. As solution is designed to be cost-effective for the
wear occurs, the center layer begins to show its yellow surface, most commonly used size of cable due to its
which is an alert to prepare for maintenance. As more abrasion much smaller volume and reduced number of
occurs, the inner layer shows its red surface, which indicates clamps needed for each application.
that maintenance is required. This visual-inspection capability Eaton, www.eaton.com
makes it more efcient to monitor wear and plan maintenance.
Thomas & Betts, ABB, www.tnb.com

Slicing connector
The 221 series Lever-Nuts Splicing Connector simplies electrical
installation of solid, stranded, and ne-stranded wire in the most
space-restricted applications. The transparent housing makes it
possible to verify proper insertion and strip length. Two conve-
niently accessible test slots located in the wire-entry face and
one opposite make for easy testing. Each wiring port of the 221
contains its own individually operated lever and spring, permitting the
combination of varying sizes and types of wire in one secure splice. This de-
sign permits Lever-Nuts to be used and reused in any application. The 221
series is available in two-, three-, and ve-wire connectors and can safely connect
wires ranging from 12 to 24 AWG.
Wago Corp., http://wago.us

Aluminum conduit body

The T&B Fittings Sand Cast Aluminum Form 7 Conduit Body is made
of CorroStalla corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy. After 1,200 hours
of 5% salt fog testing, the CorroStall aluminum alloy enabled the
conduit body to remain free of red rust and surface pitting. The T&B
Fittings Sand Cast Aluminum Form 7 Conduit Body is recommended for
electrical systems in harsh environments, especially where salinity or
chemical compounds are present. In addition to the conduit body, cast
covers are available in CorroStall aluminum alloy. Stamped covers in
aluminum are also available.
Thomas & Betts, ABB, www.tnb.com

54 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017

 2017
Electrical Distribution
Solar combiner box
The Crouse-Hinds series 1,500-Vdc solar combiner box, with and without integral dc-disconnect
switches, is built to minimize system costs by providing maximum exibility. By designing the
combiner box specically for 1,500-Vdc systems, this solution helps facilitate longer strings, fewer
connection points, reduced labor, and lower installation costs. The combiner box is available with up
to 36 input circuits and a 15-amp fuse size to help save material costs, installation time, and labor. Ad-
ditionally, the combiner box is congurable with NEMA 4X, 4, and 3R enclosures for robust environmen-
tal protection. Further customized options are available to meet specic application requirements.
Eaton, www.eaton.com

Dry-type capacitor
The LKT...Type DD603-phase dry-type capacitor is safer and stronger for solving
power factor and harmonic ltering applications where high harmonics can destroy
traditional capacitors. The Type DD60 ac power capacitor employs four degrees
of safety plus patented design features that improve the reliability of capacitors
in harsh environments. Contact to the internal windings is made by a patented,
nonsoldered contact ring to eliminate winding stress due to soldering. Self-healing
lm quickly isolates areas of dielectric breakdown in the winding when exposed to
dangerous transient voltages. The segmented lm completely removes a tiny sec-
tion of lm to prevent catastrophic failures due to severe transient voltages.
Frako Capacitor, www.frako.com

Outdoor charging station

The Outdoor Charging Station provides permanent power that allows individuals to charge
mobile devices outdoors. Offered in three models and standard nishesblack, bronze,
and silvereach station includes a combination of two or three gangs of power devices
including USB charging, but also be used for audio/video or communications connectivity.
The charging station with accent light includes a small LED locator light to enable device
charging during the day and after dark. The station stands out from traditional bollards by
virtue of the accent light, which clearly indicates charging. They are NEMA 3R-rated for
use in all weather conditions.
Legrand, www.legrand.us

Outdoor ground box

The Outdoor Ground Box provides 20-amp, 30-amp, and low-voltage electrical connections that
can be installed on college campuses, in commercial outdoor ofce spaces, and at outdoor retail
shopping centers, amusement parks, sports venues, and other exterior gathering spaces. The
box uses a diving bell design to create and maintain an air pocket that protects the electrical
connections from getting wet in adverse weather conditions. To sustain a safe working product,
there are holes on the bottom of the box that allows the water to drain into the ground. It also has
anti-oat clips to prevent the cover from lifting up and keeps the protective air pocket intact.
Legrand, www.legrand.us

Medium-voltage switchgear
Premset incorporates a Shield Solid Insulation System (2SIS) to enhance robustness, protec-
tion, and exibility of medium-voltage switchgear. The 2SIS system encases every current-
carrying conductor in dielectric epoxy and shields that epoxy with a grounded conductor to
offer unprecedented safety, efciency, and ease of use. Premset minimizes the risk of internal
arc ash and prevents phase-to-phase faults by ground-shielding each individual phase. The
circuit breaker and isolation switch are positive-indicated and interlocked to prevent access
to live compartments. Maintenance is reduced due to better environmental protection for the
current-carrying portions and complete encasement of the circuit breaker and isolation switch.
Schneider Electric, www.schneider-electric.us

Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 55

 2017
Electrical: Fuses, Circuit Breakers, Safety
Power distribution fuse block
The Bussmann series Power Distribution Fuse Block (PDFB) combines a fuse block and power
distribution block into one component. This innovative, patented design simplies panel layout
and uses up to 65% less panel space than traditional solutions. Additionally, the PDFB uses
fewer wire connections and reduces installation time and labor by 33%. The PDFB is avail-
able for Class J applications from 1 to 600 amp and Class H(K) and R ferrule applications up
to 60 amps. The block eliminates wire runs from the fuse block to a power distribution block to
reduce component count, material cost, and labor.
Eaton, www.eaton.com/bussmannseries

Integrated panelboard
The Crouse-Hinds series SynergEX Panelboard uses individually encapsulated circuit breakers
to provide maximum safety in extreme environments. The encapsulated and integrated design
provides ultimate exibility and speed during installation, normal operations, and maintenance
activities in the eld. This advanced design is approved for all hazardous gases, which allows for
operation in multiple locations and hazardous situations. SynergEX is available in 12 to 42 circuit
congurations (up to 84 circuits when coupled) with 10- to 40-amp breakers and an external main
breaker up to 225 amp. The panelboard provides overcurrent and short-circuit protection for low-
voltage power, lighting, and heat-tracing applications in indoor and outdoor hazardous areas.
Eaton, www.eaton.com

Enclosed circuit breaker Motor control center

The enclosed circuit breaker (ECB) equipped
with the Arcash Reduction Maintenance Sys-
tem can improve safety by providing a simple
and reliable method to reduce fault-clearing
time and downstream incident-energy levels.
The Arcash Reduction Maintenance System
provides an accelerated instantaneous trip to
reduce arc ash. The operator can preselect
from ve levels of protection to facilitate the
maximum arc-ash reduction while avoiding
nuisance tripping during planned start-up and
maintenance operations, without disturbing
the normal operational trip-unit settings. The
Arcash Reduction Maintenance System is
designed for use only during the time a worker is exposed
to the ash hazard. The system is not activated or armed
continuously.
Eaton, www.eaton.com
The FlashGard motor control center (MCC) features an up-
dated range of arc-resistant features to help further strength-
en protection against arc ash events. This solution combines
arc-preventive and arc-resistant technology within a single
MCC. Designed to emphasize prevention, insulation, and iso-
lation, the patented FlashGard design
enables units to be disconnected and
reconnected to the vertical bus with
the unit door closed; maintaining a
dead-front barrier during maintenance
operations helps enhance operator
safety. The MCC incorporates a Roto-
Track racking mechanism, designed
to provide bus isolation, stab indica-
tion, and lockout features to proac-
tively prevent the initiation of an arc
ash event.
Eaton, www.eaton.com

Line-isolation switch
The OEM Line Isolation (OLI) switch provides the ability to access the control panel
without exposure to line-side voltage. The switch isolates line-side power and provides
an external disconnecting means for industrial control panels, reducing the risk of arc
ash hazards. The OLI switch can be mounted on a control cabinet or disconnect enclo-
sure, providing safer access to the panel. The switch is offered as a complete package
including enclosure, disconnect, handle, ex-cable operator, and all other necessary
components. Features include a gasketed side wall that mounts to the OEM cabinet
and a modied heavy-duty safety switch with NEMA Type 12/3R and 4/4X enclosures.
Eaton, www.eaton.com

56 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017

 2017
Electrical: Fuses, Circuit Breakers, Safety

B-frame
Low-voltage circuit breaker
circuit breaker The PowerPact B-
The Series NRX low- frame circuit break-
voltage circuit breaker with er offers robust
Power Xpert Release trip power protection
unit can be seamlessly in a compact size
installed within existing and easy installation.
panel and switchboard The 125-amp B-frame
designs to provide en- circuit breaker uses economical, thermal
hanced circuit protection, magnetic-sensing elements in each of the various
connectivity, and worker one-, two-, three- and four-pole construction types.
safetyalong with tools for quicker installation and Designed to be exible, it offers a unique integrated DIN
commissioning to help address energy-management rail and traditional back-pan mounting capabilities without
challenges. The Series NRX allows advanced com- extra adapter brackets. The PowerPact B-frame circuit
munication and circuit-protection technology to be breaker features EverLink creep-compensating lug technol-
embedded directly within existing power distribution ogy. This patented, spring-based power-terminal system
equipment. The circuit breaker is engineered with an ensures a lasting connection by mitigating the loosening
intuitive user interface that allows for real-time power effects of heat cycling or vibration. The lugs are UL-listed
and energy metering as well as the ability to closely for use directly with stranded and also ne-stranded wire
monitor critical performance metrics. up to Class K.
Eaton, www.eaton.com Schneider Electric, www.schneider-electric.com/us

input #14 at www.csemag.com/information

 2017
Emergency, Onsite, Standby Power

Automatic transfer
switch
The contactor-based, UL
1008-listed automatic transfer
switch (ATS) is specically
engineered for applications up
to 3,000 amps. The contactor-
based ATS is simple to oper-
ate and available in a broad
selection of congurations and
features to meet a wide array
of application types. The ATS
Diesel generator set is engineered for enhanced
Rated at 1,750 kW, 60 Hz for standby applications, the Cat safety and uptime, with the
3512C diesel generator set features an optimally sized front door of the switch form-
engine and a reduced overall footprint. The generator set ing an isolated compartment.
provides reliable power that can deliver lower installed costs Upon opening the front door, service personnel can
per electrical kilowatt, reduced fuel consumption, and lower turn the maintenance-isolation switch and electrically
emissions. The Cat 3512C generator set has a footprint isolate the control compartment while the transfer
of 151.56 sqft, saving up to 13% of installed space and switch is energized. This design enhances safety in
a weight of 31,240 lb, which cuts up to 6% of necessary the working environment when performing inspection
weight-supporting installation costs. Users may select the or routine maintenance.
standard 108F ambient radiator or an optional high-ambient Eaton, www.eaton.com
radiator that delivers full power with no derating at ambient
temperatures up to 122F.
Caterpillar Inc., www.cat.com/powergeneration

Uninterruptible power supply

The 93PM UL 924 uninterruptible power supply (UPS) delivers enhanced efciency for emer-
gency and auxiliary lighting applications. The UPS is offered in models developed specically
for emergency lighting and power, ranging from 20 to 120 kVA, as well as auxiliary lighting and
power-listed models from 20 to 200 kVA. The 93PM UL 924 UPS allows users to tailor their light-
ing solutions based on their existing environments and requirements while reducing operating
expenses. The 93PM UL 924 UPS helps customers reduce costs through efciency of up to 97%
in double-conversion mode and up to 99% with Energy Saver System technology.
Eaton, www.eaton.com

On-line UPS
The on-line, double-conversion SC UPS features advanced
Digital Signal Processor (DSP) and Surface Mount Device
(SMD) technologies. These combined technologies provide
high reliability, use fewer components, and offer a robust
system. The SC model is designed for protecting IT/IoT equip-
ment, telecommunications, servers, security systems, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs). Features include
multimode operation, intelligent self-diagnostic technology, an innovative battery-boost circuit that allows use of
fewer components, high reliability and mean time between failures, and a very large design margin for power com-
ponents for higher reliability. The SC model is based on one of the most advanced and high-frequency DSP.
Falcon Electric Inc., www.falconups.com

58 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017

 2017
Emergency, Onsite, Standby Power

Industrial generator
The SDC20 industrial diesel generator is designed specically to meet the changing market needs for
cell-site backup power and is available in 20-kW ac or 15-kW dc options. From internal geometry to remov-
able access panels on the enclosure, every aspect of the SDC20 was designed to reduce shadow footprint,
leading to an overall size that is up to 50% smaller than alternative generators. The design also increases
consistency and reduces complexity. Integrated fork pockets and four-point lift connections are included in
the standard design to provide additional exibility during installation. The ability to service the generator from
a single side reduces the time and the cost of routine maintenance.
Generac Power Systems, www.generac.com

Large-facility UPS
The Galaxy VX UPS is an easy-to-deploy power-protec-
tion solution with exible operating modes that supports
efciency, exibility, and reliability in large facilities, data
centers, and industrial applications. The UPS offers
advanced electrical features that result in excellent power
conditioning, input power-factor correction, and high
power efciency. Its exible operating modes optimize
the efciency of information technology environments.
Through the highly efcient Double Conversion Mode, Galaxy VX reduces switching losses using a
four-level conversion technology. The reduced switching stress offers greater reliability and a reduction
in failure rates. Galaxy VX offers a traditional Eco Mode, which delivers up to 99% efciency.
Schneider Electric, www.schneider-electric.us

Equipment-Level Sensors & Controls

Indicator light
The Series 14 Indicator Compact provides safe and reli-
able, high-intensity, homogeneous LED illumination in a
variety of bright, distinguishable colors that are projected
with 180-deg visibility due to an innovatively designed
domed lens. Capitalizing on the latest LED technology,
audiences will experience quick recognition from far
distances and in brightly lit areas. The unit can handle an
operational voltage range between 14 and 32 Vac/dc with
a current consumption of less than 50 mA and features a
range of customization options in addition to the varying
colors, which include connectors and cables that are pre-
sented to suit the unique needs and quality expectations
of an audience.
EAO, http://eao.com
Scalable monitoring system
Fluke Condition Monitoring is a system of rugged voltage, cur-
rent, temperature, and power sensors that can be moved from
asset to asset or left in place for continuous monitoring. The
practical, scalable system delivers the continuous data and
alarms that maintenance technicians need to prevent equip-
ment downtime without costly equipment retrots or specialized
training. Fluke Condition Monitoring consists of wireless sensors
and a gateway that receives signals from the sensors from up
to 30 ft away. It works seamlessly with other Fluke technolo-
gies. Maintenance technicians can setup the system and begin
monitoring quickly, with the sensors transmitting measurements
to the cloud as frequently as one measurement per second.
Fluke Corp., www.uke.com

Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 59

 2017
Fire, Life Safety, Mass Notification
Emergency signaling system
The Emergency Signaling System is designed to expedite, mobilize, and improve worksite
emergency-response time when an affected employee uses an emergency shower or eyewash
xture. Using the customizable Emergency Signaling System in an emergency helps all safety
personnel complete the safety loop quicker to help ensure a better outcome. By installing the
Emergency Signaling System along with the drench shower or eyewash, clear and immediate
notication is sent to co-workers, emergency medical responders, and management that an
employee is using an emergency xture and needs help. The Emergency Signaling System is
designed with customizable, reliable, and distinct audible sounds and ashing lights.
Bradley Corp., www.bradleycorp.com

Clamped enclosure
The Crouse-Hinds series clamped
EBMX explosion-proof enclosure
is designed to operate in hazard-
ous areas to help oil and gas and
other industrial customers enhance
safety and dramatically improve
productivity. The EBMX technology
is designed to help customers avoid
unbolting enclosures to access
internal motor control components Nonmetallic signal platform
including circuit breakers, discon- The Global Series Signal Platform of nonmetallic
nect switches, motor starters, and signals is designed to meet global requirements in
combined starters. The clamped-en- hazardous atmospheres. Features include a strobe
closure technology allows customers to and LED beacon, sounder, amplied speaker, and
open and close enclosures faster than traditional loudspeaker. The Global Series Signal Platforms
bolted solutions while reducing the risk of installation errors. modular housing design allows individual signals to
The equipment also meets NFPA 70: National Electrical be combined into multisignal xtures, which reduces
Code (NEC) and Canadian Electrical Code requirements and a customers installation and wiring burden. Multisig-
is built to withstand extreme temperatures from -50 to 60C. nal xtures with two to six signals can be combined
Eaton, www.eaton.com into myriad congurations. The congurations can
be ordered fully assembled and wired direct, or ac-
cessories can be used to eld-convert individual and
standard dual units into multisignal congurations.
Federal Signal Corp., www.fedsig.com

Fire alarm control panel

The Person Machine Interface (PMI-3) is the primary user interface for the
FireFinder XLS re alarm control panel. PMI-3 serves as both operator
interface and central microprocessor for the XLS. It allows the end user to
acknowledge events, control the system-notication appliance circuits, and
reset the system for both re and mass notication system events. The PMI-3
display uses a 6-in. VGA color display, which allows the user to select up to
eight different event types for display on the same interface, including mass
notication system events and carbon monoxide events.
Siemens Industry Inc., www.usa.siemens.com/buildingtechnologies

60 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017

 2017
Fire, Life Safety, Mass Notification

Braided hose
The VicFlex Series
AH2-CC Braided
Hose features a
captured coupling
attached to the end of
the hose. It also has
a 100% kink-resistant
design and a 2-in.
bend. In previous
models, pipetters
had to tape or dope
the threads of the
branch line nipple
and thread it into the
branch line outlet, us-
ing a pipe wrench to tighten the connection. The
AH2-CC provides a pipetter-friendly option by
eliminating the need to use a pipe wrench on the
branch line side, reducing installation time and
the potential for pipetter injuries.
Victaulic, www.victaulic.com
Flexible dry sprinkler
Designed for owners, engineers, contractors, and architects,
the VicFlex Style VS1 Dry Sprinkler has a 2-in. UL bend radi-
us and 100% kink-resistant annular corrugation. The VicFlex
Style VS1 replaces traditional dry sprinklers that are rigid
and typically installed in a horizontal or vertical orientation.
The exible dry sprinkler allows installers to keep the system
water inside climate-controlled areas and farther from freez-
ing conditions within the wall, eliminating freeze-ups and
impaired systems. The exible dry sprinkler enables systems
to meet or exceed NFPA 13 installation requirements.
Longer sprinkler barrel lengths and a tight bend radius mean
pendent installations are now a reality.
Victaulic, www.victaulic.com

Precision Time Synchronization ... I 1588

SM

Why specify an EPMS without it?

CyTime TM

Sequence of
Events Recorder
SER-3200/2408

1 msec !

Synchronized Timestamping of Recorded Events

2016

Modern Electrical Power Management Systems (EPMS) require precision time

synchronization of devices for reliable operation and meaningful data analysis.
CyTimeTM Sequence of Events Recorders (SER) record state changes to 1 msec
and serve as a time-sync hub for other devices. SERs sync automatically via PTP
(IEEE 1588), and generate legacy protocols (e.g., IRIG-B) for relays and meters.
Act now! Download SER guide specs, white papers and morevisit:

www.cyber-sciences.com /spec
input #15 at www.csemag.com/information
 2017
HVAC
ECM fan array
The software-selectable, factory-installed electronically commutated motor (ECM) fan array inte-
grated with semi-custom air handlers accommodates up to 20 ECM fans in 40 arrangements to meet
application requirements. The solution delivers space-saving cabinet design, greater efciencies, qui-
eter operation, and reduced maintenance; mission critical applications benet from n+1 redundancy.
Each fans ECM mounts directly to its impeller for compact design, eliminating nearly 3 ft of cabinet
space, which makes the unit 46% narrower than direct-drive cabinets with VFDs. Air-handlers with
the ECM fan array can gain 40% efciency (3- to 5-hp range) over direct-drive or belt-driven fans,
yielding signicant yearly energy savings.
Daikin, www.daikinapplied.com

Anti-microbial cooling tower

The Anti-Microbial Cooling Tower boasts additional protection against Legionella risk. The anti-
microbial compounded resin is a blue color to make these cooling towers distinctive in the eld as a
tower with this protection. Extra protection is provided by the sloped basin designs in larger towers
that prevent stagnant water areas. The anti-microbial concentrate is compounded into the cooling
tower base resin permanently before molding the casing as well as the PVC ll material, which also
has anti-microbial compounded into raw material before forming. It is applicable for all cooling tower
applications: HVAC comfort cooling, industrial process, and power generation.
Delta Cooling Towers, http://deltacooling.com

Steam-dispersion panel
Designed and built for HVAC systems where moderate-capacity humidication requirements are
common, the Ultra-sorb MP is a framed steam-dispersion panel for pressurized and atmospheric
steam applications in air handling units or ducts. The Ultra-sorb MP features dispersion tubes spe-
cially engineered to provide maximum air contact at design capacity. These tubes are designed for
rapid, drip-free absorption so steam does not condense on downstream devices. The high-efciency
insulated dispersion tubes are available as an option, providing up to an 85% reduction in wasted
energy by signicantly reducing airstream heat gain and condensate production.
DriSteem, www.dristeem.com

Air-displacement system
DataSox distributes a large volume of air down into data center cold aisles, but with
low 400-fpm velocities that dont upset critical equipment intake and exhaust or room
return-air-containment balances. It also offers the exibility of directional spot-cooling
capabilities with adjustable nozzles for high-wattage servers. DataSox features
factory-engineered, energy-efcient - to -in. wg of static pressure and results in
cold-aisle temperatures 3 to 5F lower than traditional distribution, but with up to 40%
less CRAC ow rates, especially when complemented with VFD equipment. Using Da-
taSox helps data centers achieve lower PUE levels, which makes it an ideal sustain-
ability product for green construction projects.
DuctSox Corp., www.ductsox.com

Exhaust fan, stack assembly

The FumeJet pre-engineered exhaust fan with integral stacks is designed to safely remove
and disperse fumes and odors. The FumeJet system replaces utility set fans with eld-supplied
intake ducts and exhaust stacks to ensure a safe roof-deck area and aid in preventing re-en-
trainment of contaminated air into air-intake systems. Benets include single-source respon-
sibility, performance data that includes stack and accessory corrections, energy savings by
minimizing system effects, and features that reduce the cost of installation. The fan and
stack assembly have been designed and factory-tested to withstand a force of 22 psf with-
out the need for guy wires.
Greenheck, www.greenheck.com

62 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017

 2017
HVAC
High-rise fan coil unit
The MiniReStoraMOD is a small high-rise fan
coil solution. While ideal for hospitality, multifam- Heat-recovery system
ily, and higher education applications, the Mini- The LG Multi V S is a single-phase
ReStoraMOD is optimal for most high-rise retrot variable refrigerant ow (VRF) 5-ton
projects as its size allows for it to t into the shell heat-recovery system. Ideal for light
of an existing unit. The replacement process is commercial installations including
quick, easy, and cost-effective, minimizing the multi-use spaces, small eateries, and
number of outside trades involved and eliminat- boutiques, this heat-recovery system
ing the need to shut down entire rooms or oors is designed to provide excellent
for renovation. The result is reduced downtime, energy efciency and the exibility
signicant cost savings, and decreased revenue of simultaneous heating and cooling,
loss. The MiniReStoraMOD replaces most exist- even in the most extreme weather.
ing high-rise fan coils with energy savings and For installation cost savings, the Multi
IAQ features, including an optional electronically V S only requires single-phase power, rather than the
commutated motor and closed-cell insulation. traditional three-phase, and can provide heat down to
an outside temperature of -13F.
International Environmental Corp., www.iec-okc.com
LG Electronics, www.lghvac.com

Axial integral horsepower motor

The UlteMAX is an axial integral horsepower motor with a reduced length of less than 5 in.
and an overall footprint reduction, resulting in it being 50% lighter than conventional radial
motors. With this compact, at, lightweight design, there is no longer a need to design
around the motor. It can be intentionally hidden inside a much smaller system, requiring less
space when installed. The UlteMAX motors three variable-speed axial horsepower motors
provide the output to cut the average motor inventory in half. The UlteMAX motor allows
for speed and horsepower congurations to cover a wide range of specications without
compromising system efciency.
Marathon Motors, www.marathonelectric.com

Floor-mounted indoor unit

The MFZ-KJ oor-mounted indoor unit features Multi-ow Vane Technology. This technology
efciently circulates air to quickly raise room temperature during cooler months. Multi-ow
Vane Technology uses the lower portion of a multiow vane to angle warm air into the return
vent of the indoor unit, where it is re-circulated through the heat exchanger before being
released into the room through the top portion of the multiow vane. This process signicantly
reduces the time it takes to heat the room, ensuring superior warmth and comfort. The MFZ-
KJs stylish, sleek panel suits a variety of aesthetics with minimal obtrusion.
Mitsubishi Electric U.S. Inc., Cooling & Heating Division, www.mehvac.com

Wall-mounted indoor unit

The MSZ-EF wall-mounted indoor unit can be used
in combination with multizone technology, including
the Hyper-Heating Inverter (H2i) systems that can
deliver heat in even the coldest climates to create
a Diamond Comfort System. Diamond Comfort
Systems provide the ability to choose the desired
temperature for each zone, while consistently using
30% to 40% less energy than traditional cooling
and heating systems. The MSZ-EF features whisper-quiet operation with indoor fans functioning at a sound level
lower than a human whisper, reduced energy waste with a weekly timer that allows up to four scheduling options,
and intelligent temperature control with Econo Cool.
Mitsubishi Electric U.S. Inc., Cooling & Heating Division, www.mehvac.com

Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 63

 2017
HVAC
High-density cooling system
The InRow DX assists data center
managers in meeting the evolving Cooling tower
cooling needs of an ever-changing The Marley NC Everest Cooling Tower is a cross-ow
data center environment. The system evaporative cooling system that provides up to 50% more
signicantly improves cooling ef- cooling capacity than other single-cell, factory-assembled
ciency by reducing power consumption cooling towers. The NC Everest uses up to 35% less fan
while also increasing capacity. The power to achieve higher energy savings. Its unique design
solutions design closely couples cool- minimizes piping and electrical connections to reduce
ing with the IT heat load, preventing installation costs. Seven-foot doors provide access to the
hot-air recirculation while improving towers interior service decks and mechanical compo-
cooling predictability and allowing for nents, making routine inspections
a pay-as-you-grow environment. Avail- and maintenance safer and easi-
able in self-contained, uid-cooled, er. Featuring the patent-pending
and air-cooled congurations with or MarKey Drift Eliminators, the
without humidity control, InRow DX NC Everest Cooling Tower
meets the diverse requirements for achieves the lowest mea-
closet, server room, and data center surable drift rate, down
cooling. Providing up to 42 kW of pre- to 0.0005% of circulating
cision cooling capacity in a compact footprint, the system waterow, so less water
can support the most demanding cooling needs. escapes the tower.
Schneider Electric, www.schneider-electric.us SPX Cooling Technologies
Inc., http://spxcooling.com

Opposing-port tee
The ProPEX EP opposing-port tee was developed for PEX hydronic heating and cooling
applications with back-to-back installation-spacing constraints, such as vertical riser applica-
tions, vertical hi-stack fan coils, and heat pumps. One opposing-port tee does the job of four
ttings to change piping direction in a conned space, making it a time-, cost-, and labor-sav-
ing solution for engineers, installers, and building owners. The tee features the ProPEX tting
system, a method that uses the shape memory of PEX tubing to make a strong, reliable, and
watertight connection with a single tool. The ProPEX tee is available in 1-, 1.25-, 1.5-, and
2-in. ow-through sizes with 0.75-in. outlets.
Uponor, http://uponor-usa.com

Combination boiler
The AquaBalance combination boiler features the warmth of high-efciency space heat-
ing and the convenience of on-demand domestic hot water. The AquaBalance boiler
exceeds Energy Star-certication requirements at 94.4% annual fuel-use efciency
built with the stainless steel, titanium-infused, heat-exchanger technology. Additional
features and benets include compact design, multiple venting options, boiler controls
with digital display, quiet operation, and contractor-friendly access to panels, making in-
stallation and servicing clean and easy. AquaBalance provides a constant supply of hot
water by producing up to 4 gmp at 70F. By making the switch from a separate boiler
and hot-water tank to the system, the contractors installation process is streamlined.
Weil-McLain, www.weil-mclain.com

64 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017

 2017
Lighting & Luminaires
LED wallwash luminaire
The CWW is a contemporary LED wallwash luminaire with a high efcacy of up to 116 lumens/W. The perfor-
mance of the CWW meets uniformity of 5:1 on vertical surfaces from ceiling to oor. With a slender prole and
narrow 3-in. aperture design, the CWW is lightweight and installs with ease. The narrow aperture creates
a clean, nished appearance and the proprietary optical design provides excellent vertical uniformity
while maintaining visual comfort. It features multiple optical distributions for varying wallwash
applications, 60,000-hour LEDs at L80 for reduced maintenance, four LED color choices, and
standard 80 CRI and optional 90 CRI for color-sensitive applications.
Columbia Lighting, Hubbell Lighting, www.columbialighting.com

Plenum troffer luminaire

The LZPT is an LED version of the Zero Plenum Troffer (ZPT) that is designed for restricted
plenum spaces without impacting the required distribution of light. For installation, the patented
telescoping housing requires only 3 in. above the ceiling at one end of the xture. Once
installed, a housing height of 1.5 in. keeps the xture from intruding into the useable ple-
num. The LZPT features an efcacy of 119 lumens/Watt, superior color consistency
to a three-step MacAdam ellipse, and 82 CRI. The soft, uniform light distribution
provides superior vertical illumination free from harsh contrast.
Columbia Lighting, Hubbell Lighting, www.columbialighting.com

Ceiling-mounted emergency LED

The EV4R is a recessed ceiling-mount LED emergency light that is not concealed, has
no moving parts, and is intended to be xed to the ceiling. The embedded EV4R design
reveals less than 316 in. below the ceiling plane and has up to 42 ft of spacing on mounting
heights from 9 to 12 ft. The EV4R features spacing based on photometric reports to meet
life safety codes for all recessed LED emergency lights. The EV4R is available in a rectan-
gular or round trim-plate included with each xture, in white or black nish to help comple-
ment the compact, low-prole design.
Dual-Lite, Hubbell Lighting, www.dual-lite.com

LED weatherproof luminaire

The Crouse-Hinds series LED weatherproof luminaire combines the energy efciency of LED tech-
nology with a sharp, sleek design for aesthetically pleasing plant outdoor applications. Available in
gray, white, and bronze, these LED luminaires provide a variety of color options to help match any
outdoor landscape. The LED weatherproof luminaire has approximately the same lumen output as a
traditional 60-W incandescent lamp, uses approximately one-sixth of the energy to operate, and has
a rated life expectancy of up to 40,000 to 50,000 hours. Designed for the most demanding outdoor
applications, the luminaire is engineered with a durable die-cast housing for long life.
Eaton, www.eaton.com

Dimming LED
The Halo ML56 LED with Dim-to-Warm (D2W) technology mimics the performance
of an incandescent halogen lamp source when dimmed, smoothly dimming from a
whiter LED color temperature to a warm, soft glow to create an inviting environment.
Dimming LED products reduce light output without changing the color when dimming
standard incandescent sources, and D2W technology provides crisp light at full power
of 3,000 K and dimming smoothly to 1,850 K. The Halo ML56 LED offers multiple lu-
men packages and color temperatures that are interchangeable with dedicated 5- and
6-in. downlight and directional trim.
Eaton, www.eaton.com/lighting

Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 65

 2017
Lighting & Luminaires
Architectural luminaire
The Invue Arbor LED (ARB) is a post top, bollard, or wall-mounted architectural
luminaire featuring patented WaveStream LED technology, delivering precise
optical control and an attractive pixilation-free performance. WaveStream tech-
nology offers an architecturally organic luminaire design for area and pedestrian
applications while delivering precise optical control and an attractive pixilation-free
performance. The WaveStream LED optical platform with laser-precise AccuAim
technology provides quality site and area distributions normally not available in a
reduced-glare solution. The AccuAim optics, arranged in exacting patterns, provide
maximum uniformity while delivering the maximum amount of light on task with
efcacies in excess of 90 lumens/W achieved.
Eaton, www.eaton.com/lighting

Linear LED
The Metalux WSL Linear WaveStream LED provides premium visual aesthetics designed to properly
illuminate a wide variety of workplace environments. The highly efcient LED system and advanced
optical design deliver an unparalleled combination of optimal light uniformity for enhanced visual
comfort. The advanced AccuAim optics allow for maximum energy savings while achieving
desired light levels. From retail to industrial applications, as either stand-alone or in a
continuous row, the WSL linear provides customers with unique installation features.
Features include 4- and 8-ft congurations, aluminum and steel housing, UNV,
0- to 10-V dimmable driver, and integral sensor options available for improved
energy savings.
Eaton, www.eaton.com/lighting

Corrosive-environment linear LED

The Crouse-Hinds series Pauluhn Summit Linear LED luminaire is designed to
withstand high-pressure wash-down environments and can be customized for
application-specic performance requirements. The LED luminaire is suited for
food and beverage processing, pharmaceutical processing, agricultural process-
ing, and other corrosive environments. Pauluhn Summit Linear LED luminaires are
IP66-rated and designed to withstand a 1,500-psi high-pressure hose-down from
a 5-ft distance. The Pauluhn Summit Linear LED Luminaire can be customized for
application-specic performance requirements. Features include a through-feed
design for multiple-xture wiring and versatile mounting options.
Eaton, www.eaton.com

High-output wallpack
At 7,500 to 14,500 lumens, the LNC4 Litepak is the largest and highest-output wallpack
in Hubbell Outdoor Lightings high-volume Litepak series. It features four different lumen
packages, multiple distributions, and CCT for maximum light levels and mounting-height
exibility. It is designed for new construction and retrot and is capable of replacing up
to 400 W high-intensity discharge (HID) luminaires. The LNC4s features include battery
backup for egress applications as well as a programmable occupancy sensor for even
greater energy savings when no motion is detected. A unique frosted acrylic diffuser is
available to soften output, improve uniformity, and protect the LED lens.
Hubbell Outdoor Lighting, Hubbell Lighting,www.hubbelloutdoor.com

66 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017

 2017
Lighting & Luminaires
Linear high bay
The HL Series LED Linear High Bay is a high-output luminaire for com-
mercial and industrial lighting applications. Measuring 14 x 24 in., the HL
Series offers leading-edge efcacy (132 lumens/W) and scalability for
warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturing facilities. Offered in
100, 150, and 200 W versions, with outputs from 12,000 lumens, the LED
high bay replaces traditional uorescent and HID xtures of up to 600
W. The HL Series High Bay can be congured with narrow or wide lens
distributions, as well as emergency controls, for optimal lumen output and
energy savings.
MaxLite, www.maxlite.com

Energy-efficient high bay

The ISON High Bay Generation 3 (HBIF3) delivers 214 lumens/W, provid-
ing up to 77% energy savings over most HID xtures. The HBIF3 delivers
90% more lumens per watt than the average LED high bay while consuming
47% less energy. The packaging is labeled according to facility layout so that
xtures are delivered directly to where they will be installed. These features re-
duce waste, reduce labor costs, and make the HBIF3 installation process easier.
The HBIF3 xture works with most control systems, allowing for wireless xture
control, building management system integration, and tracking of people, products,
and assets through facilities.
Orion Energy Systems, www.orionlighting.com

2016 The Metraflex Company

input #16 at www.csemag.com/information

 2017
Lighting Controls
B-BC controller
The nLight Eclypse extends the power of nLight to deliver the next level of lighting control. This
BTL-listed B-BC controller leverages native BACnet/IP and WiFi to seamlessly integrate lighting
control systems with building management systems, without the need for a gateway. This scal-
able solution enables BACnet MS/TP-to-IP routing and Modbus RTU integration to cost-effec-
tively connect meters and other devices for a complete lighting control solution. nLight Eclypse
also makes it easier to keep up with changing technology and energy codes. IP connectivity
provides the speed and bandwidth needed for multiple technology integrations while the TLS/
SSL and RADIUS authentication support provide reliable data protection.
Acuity Brands, www.acuitybrands.com

Low-voltage lighting control system

The Distributed Low Voltage Power (DLVP) system blends the benets of both ac
and dc power distribution and is designed to reduce the total installed cost of LED
lighting and controls projects. Features include pre-terminated Class 2 cabling,
a congured plug-and-play system independent of system wiring, and simplied
energy code compliance. It leverages ac transmission and dc for connectivity and
has centralized maintenance from distributed power modules. The DLVP system is
designed to be a safe and easily recongured system without the need to rewire.
Eaton, www.eaton.com/lighting

Fixture module
The NX Fixture Module (NXFM) is designed to replace everything from stand-alone controls
to wired and wireless networks in indoor and outdoor applications. It provides on/off switching,
full-range (0 to 10 V) dimming control, and a built-in astronomical time clock. The NXFM can
function as a simple occupancy sensor, but it also includes a passive infrared occupancy and
daylight sensor. It also features IntelliDAPT self-adaptive technology, which gives the NXFM
the ability to learn its environment and adjust automatically. The sensor head includes a Blue-
tooth radio, enabling from-the-ground commissioning and control with a smartphone or tablet.
Hubbell Control Solutions, www.hubbell-automation.com

Dimming relay
wiSTAR is a wireless, self-powered lighting control system designed for stand-
alone indoor applications, such as ofces, conference rooms, break rooms,
classrooms, and other applications. wiSTAR devices harvest energy from their
surroundings. This relay is self-powered and requires no wires to operate. It can
be freely positioned, making for versatile layouts as compared with a wired solu-
tion. It also enables wireless dimming of LED luminaires using 0- to 10-V control.
wiSTAR also implements load shedding initiated by demand-response control-
lers; two molded buttons and one LED indicator light can be used for device
conguration and manual control, depending on user preference.
Hubbell Control Solutions, www.hubbell-automation.com

Fixture connection module

The Connected Lighting Module (CLM) is a key component to a light management system
(LMS). It enables luminaires to be connected to the LMS which is based on ZigBee commu-
nication protocols. Individually addressable, the CLM enables each luminaire to be indepen-
dently controlled and congured to best meet the needs of the facility. The 0- to 10-V dimming
interface allows control of single or multiple luminaires in a single space. The CLM empowers
users to convert their existing luminaires to be wireless ready. It is intended for installation into a
standard -in. knockout present on virtually every luminaire.
Osram, www.osram-americas.com

68 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017

 2017
Lighting Controls

Lighting, automation system controller

Dimming wall-switch The InFusion Controller II extends BACnet support for
occupancy sensor the Wattstopper architectural dimming platform. This
The DW-311 is a passive infrared allows building automation and management systems
and ultrasonic dual-technology to control all lighting control and automation-panel dim-
0- to 10-V dimming wall-switch mer loads, buttons (tasks), and occupancy sensors. The
occupancy sensor designed to InFusion Controller II is applicable for larger applications
work in a variety of small- and where networking and expansion are possibilities. It can
medium-sized applicationsin- be integrated using built-in Ethernet, RS232, and RS485
cluding rooms with partitions, connections. The control-
such as restrooms, large ofces, ler meets demands for
conference rooms with cubi- delay-free and precise
cal walls, and classrooms. The control of integrated light-
sensor is designed to reduce the ing control systems. The
number of devices required in a controller has redundancy
space with full-function multiway built in through its system
control from one to four control lo- SD card so that even if a
cations. It has dual in-line package switches, which al- device fails, the system
low users to adjust settings to meet their needs, such can be restored with a
as power-loss-mode settings, optional smart light-level new processor and the
settings, and an optional presentation mode. original SD Card.
Wattstopper, Legrand, Wattstopper, Legrand,
www.legrand.us/wattstopper www.legrand.us/wattstopper

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 2017
Plumbing & Water Management

Tankless rack system

The commercial Tankless Rack System can deliver up to 1,592,000 Btus
and link as many as 20 high-efciency 199,000-Btu condensing tankless
heaters, providing wall-mount, free-standing, and back-to-back installa-
tion options. This system simplies commercial installations by providing
prefabricated gas and water lines that link units together. Once bolted in
place, the commercial rack ensures a continuous, reliable supply of hot
water. Even during heater maintenance, each unit can be easily isolated
while other heaters continue with normal operation. The rack is built on a
durable, lightweight anodized aluminum frame and connects to schedule
40 PVC pipe for intake and exhaust.
A. O. Smith, www.hotwater.com

Integrated commercial faucet

The NextGen Selectronic integrated commercial faucet features exclusive Sm-
arTherm technology that incorporates an ASSE 1070-certied thermostatic hot-
water temperature limiter directly into the faucet, keeping all controls above deck
for easy installation and maintenance. This exclusive SmarTherm safety shut-off
eliminates the need for a separate thermostatic mixing valve to ensure ASSE
1070 protection. The integrated design incorporates the electronicsincluding
the sensor, battery, and solenoid valvein the spout, eliminating the need for a
control box below the deck. This shortens the installation time because only the
water connections are made under the sink.
American Standard, www.americanstandard.com

Water heater system

The pre-engineered and prefabricated Commercial Water Heater System combines com-
mercial-grade tankless units with system controllers, manifolds, and other necessary com-
ponents and accessories into fully assembled metal rack systems, greatly reducing instal-
lation time and expense. With this system, the installer need only connect the water and
gas lines, build the vent runs, and setup the prewired system controller. Corrosion-resistant
aluminum construction, heavy-duty Type K copper, and stainless steel heat exchangers
are specially engineered to withstand the rigors of commercial applications. Accurate,
customized pre-sizing of gas and water supply lines save installation time, while functional
sizing allows the system to t easily through standard-sized commercial doorways.
Noritz, www.noritz.com

Energy-saving Y-strainer
The LPD Y-Strainer has the same face-to-face size as a standard Y-strain-
er design and can be retrotted into existing piping systems. It is designed
to save energy and features a screen that is 30% larger and has signi-
cantly more holes, so it takes longer for debris to collect and impede ow.
The internal geometry has eliminated obstructions; the body casting does
not block the screen opening and there is a smooth, open ow from intake
to discharge. The LPD Y-strainer has opened up the interior of the strainer
so ow is straighter and smoother through the strainer.
The Metraex Co., www.metraex.com

70 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017

 2017
Pumps, Pump Controls

Horizontal heat pump

The WH Series horizontal-conguration, small-packaged water-source heat pump is
available from to 15 tons in replacement-ready sizes to match with conventional water-
source heat pump products. WH Series units are designed with standard efciencies that
exceed ASHRAE standards. WH Series standard construction consists of an all-alumi-
num cabinet with closed-cell neoprene foam rubber insulation, induction-brazed copper
piping, and stainless steel condensate drain pan. Toolless service panels provide access
to the controls, compressor, and fan. A bottom service-access panel provides access to
the expansion valve, reversing valve, lter drier, supply fan, and air lters.
AAON, www.aaon.com

End suction pump

The Design Envelope 4200 H split-coupled horizontal end suction pump is designed
to adjust output to match the exact needs of an HVAC system in response to changes
in system ow. Where many variable-speed pumps use a straight-line approach to
speed control, the 4200 H adjusts and controls pump speed according to a quadratic
curve that more closely matches the uid-ow dynamics of an HVAC system. It also
uses sensorless ow control for reduced installation costs and improved accuracy in
speed control. Other 4200 H features include built-in harmonic mitigation, soft start
and motor adaptation, and an outside mechanical seal and split-coupling design sup-
port easy maintenance.
Armstrong Fluid Technology, www.armstronguidtechnology.com

Pump controller, VFD

The Technologic intelligent
Vertical pump retrofit
pump controller/vari-
The Design Envelope Vertical
able frequency drive
In-Line Retrot pump is de-
(VFD) is designed to
signed to allow building owners
provide users with two
to replace the moving parts of
advanced controller
an installed constant-speed
functionsthe Start-Up
pump while retaining the exist-
Genie and an electroni-
ing pump casing, insulation, and
cally controlled bypass
piping. Design Envelope solu-
to reduce onsite setup and
tions dont require differential
conguration time by more than
pressure sensors, wall-mount-
50%. These advanced controller
ed drives, or additional wiring.
functions help reduce operating
Theres no need for a pressure
costs, optimize building systems, and ensure ease of
test after the installation because
service. The Technologic can also provide more ef-
it reuses the existing casing. It allows engineers
cient operation for applications with varying ow ranges
to help their customers upgrade HVAC installa-
by altering hydraulic performance to maintain constant
tions from constant-speed solutions that waste
system pressure. The drive provides constant-speed
energy to variable-speed installations that align
lag control and has the ability to control one variable-
with industry requirements for energy savings at
speed pump with up to two xed-speed lag pumps.
part load.
Bell & Gossett, http://bellgossett.com
Armstrong Fluid Technology,
www.armstronguidtechnology.com

Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 71

 2017
Software: Design, Modeling, Analysis
Electrical calculation add-in
Design Master Electrical RT 1.2 is an electrical calculation add-in for Autodesk
Revit software. Version 1.2 includes the addition of one-line diagrams to the
product. Designers can use their Revit model to create their one-line diagram,
and changes to the Revit model are automatically updated in the one-line
diagram. The goal of building information modeling (BIM) in Revit is to have ev-
erything in the project come from a single model. Allowing the one-line diagram
to be created from Revit moves one more part of the electrical design into BIM.
Design Master Software, www.designmaster.biz

Arcing current calculator

The Bussmann series Arcing Current Calculator is designed to enable users to quickly
calculate the minimum and maximum arcing currents of electrical systems, based on IEEE
1584. This tool takes a given available short-circuit current and key system attribute inputs
and provides the calculation of arcing currents per the IEEE 1584 equations and standard.
Users can then output calculations for later reference or the creation of labels. Ad-
ditionally, the tool provides quick access to Eaton application engineers for further
assistance, if needed, and provides an interactive experience whether its on a
desktop or mobile device.
Eaton, www.eaton.com/bussmannseries

Firestop documentation manager

The CFS-DM Firestop Documentation Manager is a cloud-based system designed for
the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) market that provides an easy way
to document, manage, and report compliance for every penetration, joint, or other re
protection system throughout a building. It is designed to speed up a project and help
save valuable time on the jobsite and in the ofce. AEC professionals can use it to track all
paperwork and documentation during a build and manage a building in order to see whats
installed and where. CFS-DM Firestop Documentation Manager comes with an app for
both iOS and Android smartphones and tablets for improved mobility.
Hilti, www.hilti.com

Automation, BIM-integrated plug-in

The Hilti Button for Firestop automation software is designed to integrate with BIM software platforms. It
automates the restop product and UL-system selection process and eliminates the tedious, manual task
of placing hundreds or thousands of restop objects in BIM. The software automatically detects penetra-
tions in re-related construction and populates the appropriate restop products and UL systems directly
into BIM to save time and reduce costs. AEC rms can save more than 1 months of project time. The
software integrates seamlessly with the Autodesk ecosystem around Navisworks Manage, AutoCAD MEP,
Fabrication CADmep, and Revit and automates the restop-selection process on a project.
Hilti, www.hilti.com

BAS symbol library

The BAS Symbol Library v5 is designed to monitor complicated building systems
with ease. The library includes more than 450 total graphic les of a variety of
graphics and animations needed to construct building automation system (BAS)
graphics, HVAC graphics, or mechanical, electrical, and plumbing equipment. Al-
most any system graphic can be created, static or animated, as the symbol library
is compatible with more than 95% of all major mechanical systems. This library
provides end users with access to high-end graphics and animations that more
realistically represent the mechanical systems in place.
QA Graphics, www.qagraphics.com

72 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017

 2017
Software: Design, Modeling, Analysis

Monitoring, control
system app
iCOM CMS is an Internet
of Things (IoT) mobile app
designed to provide informa-
tion technology (IT) managers
and service providers with
advanced thermal monitoring
and control for remote, mission
critical locations and edge-
BIM plug-in for Autodesk Revit computing sites. Operating
LayoutFAST is an intelligent plug-in for Autodesk Revit that as a mobile app, it provides
makes it easier and faster to congure and insert products into IT managers and authorized
projects. LayoutFAST supplies BIM managers, design engi- service providers with visibility
neers, and contractors with everything they need to design and into temperature, humidity, and
specify complete electrical systems. LayoutFAST allows users cooling-unit operating param-
to select and place products into designs from within Revit and eters. It also allows managers to forward alarms to techni-
congure them to meet project requirements. It also provides a cians or service providers. All parties can view each step
library of electrical products updated in real time from the cloud of the troubleshooting process. iCOM CMS is designed for
to ensure current information is used in the design process. simple, cost-effective connectivity to building management
LayoutFAST enables users to share les and models, helping to systems through BACnet, Modbus, and other protocols.
drive collaboration and speed the development process. Vertiv, www.vertivco.com
Schneider Electric, www.schneider-electric.com

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 2017
Test Instruments, Meters, Data Loggers

Branch circuit monitor

The Power Xpert Branch Circuit Monitor (PXBCM) is an advanced re-
mote power-monitoring solution designed to provide visibility of energy
usage and enhanced control response to energy loads and circuits all
the way down to the plug level. The electrical monitoring solution is
designed to help support improved power management and power-
usage efciency in high-density industrial sites or across an entire
enterprise. The PXBCM helps users cost-effectively monitor, integrate,
and protect mission critical electrical equipment and data systems. By
combining advanced sensing, monitoring, and reporting capabilities
down to the plug level, the PXBCM provides remote access to live,
circuit-level energy-usage data for entire facilities.
Eaton, www.eaton.com

HVAC clamp meter

The Fluke 902 FC True-rms HVAC clamp meter is a wireless
Fluke Connect-enabled meter designed to improve the pro-
ductivity of HVAC technicians in the eld. With the Fluke 902
FC, technicians can document measurements, email results to
customers, and collaborate with colleagues in real time directly
from the jobsite. The rugged CAT III 600V/CAT IV 300V-rated
meter performs the essential measurements of HVAC systems,
such as microamps for testing pilot light sensors, resistance up to
60 kilohms, ac current, ac/dc voltage, capacitance, and contact
temperature. The clamp meter also decreases the frequency at
which technicians will need to wear personal protective equipment
when working on high-voltage/current panels.
Fluke Corp., www.uke.com

Embedded micrometer
The Siemens Embedded Micro Metering Module (SEM3) integrates
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rot. The enhanced exible design allows for low-, medium-, and
high-density metering requirements to be met efciently and eco-
nomically using only a few standardized components that may be
integrated into panelboard, switchboard, PDU, RPP, and bus-plug
products. The SEM3 system has a wide range of applications and is
used in building design, power distribution, and critical-load applications.
SEM3 is available in solid and split-core CTs for retrot applications and
has an optional remote display for remote monitoring.
Siemens, http://usa.siemens.com

74 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017

 Digital Edition
Exclusive Content
Visit www.csemag.com/digitaledition for exclusive content and for
more technical feature articles. The digital edition includes tablet-friendly
viewing (HTML5), headlines linking to longer versions, and an emailed link
as soon as its ready.

DE-1 Clean agent

fire suppression
for mission
critical facilities
Specifying the proper clean
agent system for a mission
critical facility is vital to
minimize downtime and meet
building codes and standards.
BRIAN McLAUGHLIN, PE,
Arup, Los Angeles

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www.csemag.com Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 75

 Clean agent
fire suppression for
mission critical facilities
Specifying the proper clean agent system for a mission critical facility is vital
to minimize downtime and meet building codes and standards.
BRIAN McLAUGHLIN, PE, Arup, Los Angeles
M
ission critical has a
Learning broad definition that
objectives is most common ly
 Understand best practices def ined by faci lity
for specifying a clean agent owners as a function of
system in a mission critical their perceived importance of continu-
facility. ous operation of their facility. Common
 Explain clean agent sys- examples of mission critical facilities
tems available to specifying include data centers, control rooms,
engineers.
emergency call centers, and military
 Explore building codes and
facilities. Essentially, a mission critical
standards.
facility is one where continued opera-
tion is of tantamount importance to the
business owner or operator.
When thinking of the needs of a mis-
sion critical facility, the concern of a fire
rendering the facility inoperable is often
at the top of a facility owners or opera-
tors list of risks. Furthermore, when
considering how to mitigate a fire in one
of these facilities, one must consider the
speed of cleanup to return the facility to
operational status as soon as possible.
This is where clean agents come into play.
Design standards for clean agents
When thinking about clean agents, at
first, most industry professionals will
DE1 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
often reference NFPA 2001: Standard on
Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems.
The 2015 edition of NFPA 2001 is the
most recent edition, and the standards
scope is stated as follows: This stan-
dard contains minimum requirements
for total flooding and local-application
clean agent fire-suppression systems. It
does not cover fire-extinguishing systems
that use carbon dioxide or water as the
primary extinguishing media, which are
addressed by other NFPA documents.
The standard identifies the system
components, system design consider-
ations, local application requirements,
and inspection, testing, maintenance,
and training provisions. NFPA 2001
defines a clean agent as an electrically
nonconducting, volatile, or gaseous fire
extinguishant that does not leave a resi-
due upon evaporation. Typically, a clean
agent fire-extinguishing system installed
in compliance with NFPA 2001 can be
installed in a normally occupied space,
as these systems are designed to extin-
guish a fire without reducing the oxygen
levels within a space to below safe limits
for humans.
www.csemag.com
 Another standard to consider when
discussing clean agent systems is NFPA
12: Standard on Carbon Dioxide Extin-
guishing Systems. The current 2015 edi-
tion of NFPA 12 addresses design and
installation for total flooding and local
application for carbon dioxide fire-extin-
guishing systems. It is crucial to note
that there are significant restrictions for
using carbon dioxide fire-extinguishing
systems in normally occupied spaces due
to the hazardous low-oxygen environ-
ment created by the system discharge.
The benefit of clean agent extinguis-
hants is that they do not cause addi-
tional damage to the facility beyond
what was caused by the fire. Typically,
protected spaces would be ventilated
to remove any gaseous remnants of the
discharge, and once individual pieces of
equipment are repaired, the facility can
return to business as usual very quickly.
Building code considerations
NFPA 2001 and NFPA 12 are stan-
dards that require adoption by a par-
ticular code, jurisdiction, or owner.
For example, the model building codes
Figure 1: This control room at Los Angeles International Airports central utility plant is a
real-world example of mission critical space. All graphics courtesy: Michael Urbanek, Arup
incorporate references to NFPA 2001
and NFPA 12, wherein compliance with
the model building code requires con-
formance to the relevant standard for the
selected system. The two most common
model building codes incorporate NFPA
2001 as follows:
NFPA 5000
NFPA 5000: Building Construction
and Safety Code, 2015 edition, refer-
ences both NFPA 12 and NFPA 2001
in Sections 7.4.1.4.7, 29.2.6.2, and
29.3.5.1.3 as approved approaches for
providing automatic fire suppression in
power-generation structures of Type I
or Type II construction that are used to
house generators, turbines, and flue gas-
treatment equipment. The use of these
systems within power-generation struc-
tures is permitted as the primary means
of fire suppression in lieu of an automatic
fire sprinkler system, allows for extended
egress travel distances, and enables
unlimited building height and area.
NFPA 5000 Section 55.5.1 also gener-
ally references both NFPA 12 and NFPA
2001 as the applicable standards for the
design, installation, and maintenance
of carbon dioxide and clean agent fire-
extinguishing systems, respectively, for
use in any occupancy or building type.
IBC and IFC
The 2015 editions of the International
Building Code (IBC) and International
Fire Code (IFC) contain limited refer-
ences to clean agent and carbon dioxide
fire-extinguishing systems. Sections 904.8
and 904.10 in both model documents
provide references to NFPA 12 and NFPA
2001 for carbon dioxide and clean agent
systems, respectively. Therefore, compli-
ance with the NFPA standards is incor-
porated within the model code require-
ments. Furthermore, compliance with
the manufacturers-listing requirements
is mandatory. IBC Section 904 provides
the requirements for alternative automatic
fire-extinguishing systems, which are

www.csemag.com Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 DE2

 Clean agent fire suppression
generally used to protect specific hazards
within a building as opposed to serving
as the primary fire protection system
for a building. With regard to IBC/IFC
compliance, the use of a clean agent or
carbon dioxide system as a replacement
for a required automatic fire sprinkler
system will require approval from the
local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ).
Additionally, IFC Section 901.6.1
requires that carbon dioxide and clean
agent systems be inspected, tested, and
It is always important to verify all codes and
standards applicable to a project at the beginning, to
ensure that the design complies with the appropriate
regulations.
maintained in accordance with the
appropriate NFPA standards.
In the absence of incorporation into
a model building code, or the locally
amended and adopted version of a model
building code, an individual AHJ or facil-
ity owner may require compliance with
NFPA 2001. It is always important to ver-
ify all codes and standards applicable to
a project at the beginning, to ensure that
the design complies with the appropriate
regulations.
Extinguishing system agents
and options
The U.S. Environmental Protection
Agencys (EPA) Significant New Alterna-
tives Policy (SNAP) provides an evolving
list of fire suppression and explosion-pro-
tection agents that have been assessed by
the EPA for overall risk to the environ-
ment and human health in the following
categories:
n Ozone-depletion potential (ODP)
n Global warming potential (GWP)
n Toxicity
n Flammability
n Occupational and consumer
health/safety
n Local air quality
n Ecosystem effects.
DE3 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
The SNAP list includes options for
both total flooding agents and streaming
agents. NFPA 2001 defines a total flood-
ing system as consisting of an agent
supply and distribution network designed
to achieve a total flooding condition in a
hazard volume, while a streaming agent
is addressed as a locally applicable system
consisting of a supply of extinguishing
agent arranged to discharge directly on
the burning material. NFPA 12 provides
similar, but not exact, definitions.
With carbon dioxide systems, the
agent is always the same, but manufac-
turers offer systems in a variety of stor-
age configurations, sizes, and pressures.
In most instances, these types of systems
are used for industrial applications with
low occupant loads that can be evacuated
prior to discharge or spaces that are not
normally occupied.
The remainder of clean agent systems
is subdivided into two primary catego-
ries: halocarbon agents and inert gas
agents.
Halocarbon agents:
A halocarbon is defined by NFPA 2001
as an agent that contains as primary
components one or more organic com-
pounds containing one or more of the
elements fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or
iodine. Since NFPA 2001 does not iden-
tify specific products by brand name, the
various types of halocarbon agents are
referenced in categories based on their
chemical compositions.
n Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and
Fluoroketones (FKs) are the most
commonly used total flooding clean
agents within buildings. For example,
Ecaro, FE-13, FM-200, and Novec
1230 are agents in these categories.
n Hydrochlorofluorocarbons
(HCFCs) are predominantly used
for local application conditions
and are typically used in fire extin-
guishers. For example, Halotron I.
n Fluoroiodocarbons (FICs) are used
in the aviation industry for engine
nacelle and auxiliary power unit
(APU) protection.
Halocarbon agents are stored in liq-
uid form at room temperature and in
low pressure (<1,000 psi) cylinders.
The liquid-storage format allows these
agent-storage cylinders to occupy a rela-
tively small footprint within a building.
These agents are required to discharge
very rapidly and become gases during
discharge through the delivery nozzles.
They are intended to reach their design
concentrations with a discharge dura-
tion of not more than 10 seconds. Due
to this requirement, halocarbon agents
are typically stored very close to the space
or enclosure being protected.
Inert gas agents:
NFPA 2001 defines an inert gas as an
agent that contains as primary compo-
nents one or more of the gases helium,
neon, argon, or nitrogen. Inert gas agents
that are blends of gases can also contain
carbon dioxide as a secondary compo-
nent. In a similar manner to the halo-
carbons, generic designations are given
to the common inert gases used for fire
suppression.
n IG-01 is used for argon, an
unblended inert gas.
n IG-55 is used for a blend of two
inert gasesnitrogen and argon
(approximately 50% and 50%,
respectively). Examples of this
agent include Argonite and
ProInert.
n IG-100 is used for nitrogen, an
unblended inert gas.
n IG-541 is used for a blend of three
www.csemag.com
 inert gasesnitrogen, argon, and
carbon dioxide (52%, 40%, and 8%,
respectively). Inergen is an example
of this gas.

Inert gas agents are stored in a typi-

cally large quantity of high-pressure
(>2,100-psi) gas cylinders that can often
require a much larger footprint than a
comparable design quantity of a halocar-
bon agent. These agents are also required
to discharge rapidly, but are permitted to
reach their design concentrations with a
discharge duration between 60 and 120
seconds, depending on the nature of the
hazard protected. Due to the higher stor-
age arrangement and extended discharge
times, inert gas storage cylinders can be
located at a greater distance from the
protected hazard as compared with the
halocarbon agent systems.

Case study: Los Angeles

International Airport central utility
plant
The new state-of-the-art central utility
plant (CUP) at the Los Angeles Interna-
tional Airport (LAX) opened in April
2015 and replaced a 50-year-old facility.
The CUP provides significant additional
capacity for airline terminals heating and
cooling and other buildings in LAXs cen-
tral terminal area. The CUP is the heart
of the airport that keeps heating and
cooling the water pumping throughout
the terminals and other buildings to pro-
vide passenger comfort for more than 70
million patrons who travel through LAX
each year. The continuous operation of
the CUP is mission critical to the busi-
ness of the airport, and a clean agent
fire-extinguishing system was included
per the owners requirements along with
a pre-action fire sprinkler system locat-
ed in the server room that contains the
brain of the CUP.
The server room is approximately 500
sq ft with a ceiling height of 19 ft 5 in.,
and the project requirements called for
FM-200 to be used as the clean agent.
A single 600-lb cylinder installation
with 345 lb of clean agent was used. The
engineered system design included four
Figure 2: This is an exterior image of the LAX central utility plant that contains mission
critical spaces.
discharge nozzles at two different eleva-
tions to account for the nearly 20-ft high
ceilings in the server room. Eight photo-
electric smoke detectors were installed to
provide rapid smoke detection in the space.
The sequence of operations is pro-
grammed such that activation of any two
smoke detectors within the room will ini-
tiate a 30-second clean agent discharge
delay. If a building staff member does not
take action to abort the agent discharge or
manually activate the discharge more rap-
idly, the clean agent system will discharge
after the 30-second delay to protect the
equipment in the room.
Clean agent and carbon dioxide extin-
guishing systems are fire protection sys-
tems that can extinguish fires while leav-
ing no residue that can damage sensitive
equipment or delay reinstatement of a
facility to operational order. There are
many options regarding extinguishing-
agent types, storage, and delivery sys-
tem configurations that must be con-
sidered while specifying a solution for
each project. Its critical to consider the
many types of systems for each project
since there isnt one particular solution
for every application. By carefully con-
sidering the selection of appropriate
clean agent fire-extinguishing systems,
an enhanced level of fire protection can
be provided to safeguard mission critical
facilities.
Brian McLaughlin is an associate and
the Los Angeles fire-engineering practice
leader at Arup. He has 16 years of expe-
rience in the application of building and
fire code requirements to hundreds of
projects on six continents, which includes
significant experience with mission criti-
cal facilities requiring clean agent fire-
extinguishing systems.

www.csemag.com Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017 DE4

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 Future of Engineering
Emerging wireless technologies
in building automation
Engineers need to consider wireless technologies for building automation
systems and realize the benefits of wireless systems for each scenario.
A
building automation system
(BAS) is an inherently technical
system. As such, the BAS indus-
try always seems to serve as a battle-
ground for technological standards.
Recent advancements in wireless
technology have set the stage for the
next big clash: BAS wireless standards.
There are three big contenders for BAS
wireless connectivity including Zigbee,
Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth low energy (BLE).
Benefits to wireless systems
Wireless systems in large buildings
have become a rapidly moving target.
Engineers feel increasing pressure to run
buildings more efficiently and with less
downtime, and wireless systems are seen
as a risk to those comfortable with the
reliability of wired products. Engineers
should consider the benefits of wireless
solutions that includes bigger savings, a
smaller environmental impact, sustain-
ability, and easier upgrades.
Deterrents for using wireless systems
The most significant deterrent to full
implementation of wireless systems in
buildings is the power problem. Wire-
less BAS sensors are stationary and can-
not be regularly recharged, and usually
not located near convenient wall power.
In large buildings, there will be thou-
sands of wireless sensors and located in
areas that are nowhere near a wall out-
let. Power connections to BAS sensors
80 Consulting-Specifying Engineer APRIL 2017
Computrols, Gretna, La.
must be permanent and safe, and air
handlers cannot stop functioning.
So, what if you run dedicated power
wires to the sensor/radio? Well, that
defeats the whole point of not running
communication wire. This is the essence
of the power problem: a truly wireless
device has neither communication wire
nor power wire running to it. If you
were going to run a power wire to the
device(s), you might as well run the
communication wire as well. Long-life
batteries and energy harvesting, how-
ever, are possible solutions.
Before considering which wireless
standard is best for an application, its
necessary to consider the power connec-
tions. Each use case for wireless systems
should be considered separately.
The Zigbee standard
The Zigbee standard was specifically
developed for building automation with
low energy in mind. If the use case in
mind is meant to provide communica-
tion for many nodes, with a minimal
amount of communication, Zigbee
should be considered. In theory, Zigbee
networks become stronger as more
components are connected. This helps
with scalability and distance concerns
by using mesh technology.
Wi-Fi
For building automation, if the
implementation needs high throughput
BRYCE JACOBS,
with a few components, this is a viable
solution. Wi-Fi has the capability of
providing very high throughput, with
future improvements bumping it up to 5
GHz. With so many standards available
to building automation, its best to con-
sider this as a last resort. Introducing
more congestion is something to take
into account when introducing another
Wi-Fi network into the mix.
Bluetooth low energy (BLE)
The standard is fast moving, with the
5.0 specification and Bluetooth mesh
both slated to be released within the
year. As for the 4.2 specification, Blue-
tooth makes for good point-to-point
communication as well as beaconing
sensors. If the solution requires an
exponential number of components,
with consistent back-and-forth com-
munication, this may not be the right
solution.
There are various scenarios that one
may face when engineering a BAS,
and wireless components can be seen
as one of the many solutions available
with several associated benefits.
Bryce Jacobs is a software engineer for
Computrols Inc. In this role, he is tasked
with new product development and the
ongoing maintenance and improvement
of Computrols BAS.
Read the longer version of this online at:
www.csemag.com/archives.
www.csemag.com
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